https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-01-02.pdf fb22656cc8956cc2ab91f66ce8c0a9d5 PDF Text Text 2010s a decade of news in many forms Let’s ring in a meaningful new year Reviewing the year in local prep sports See Story on Page 3 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 10 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 804879110187 1070490102590503660649058113421 **************************QAR-RT LOT**C 005 Richard C005 Hemerling 421 N Taffee Dr Hastings Ml 49058-1134 6/30/2020 9:47:00 AM Thursday, January 2, 2020 VOLUME 167, No. 1 PRICE 750 The secret to fair roads in Barry County Greg Chandler Staff Writer Barry County Road Commission officials subscribe to the old adage “an ounce of pre­ vention is worth a pound of cure.” That translates into an emphasis on a pro­ cess known as chip sealing, where small cracks that have formed on a paved road are treated to extend the life bf the road surface. “We put a thin seal over the top of (the asphalt), which preserves it,” said Road Commissioner Frank Fiala of Yankee Springs Township. The asphalt is covered immediately with aggregate and then rolled over to seal the crack and keep out the moisture that can cause further deterioration of the road surface, even­ tually leading to more costly repairs down the road. “We’ve been a big proponent of it over the years,” said Road Commission Chairman David Solmes of Carlton Township. “That’s why our roads are in so much better condition compared to everybody else’s ” The process typically extends the life of a paved road by six to eight year ., Solmes said. According to the Michigan Transportation Asset Management Council, which maintains a database on road conditions t hroughout the state, 39.6 percent of Barry County’s roads were considered in “good” condition in 2018, the last year such records are available, while another 47.7 percent of county roads were considered to be in^fair’^ condition.That’s compared to a statewide figure of 21.1 per­ cent of roads in “good” condition and 38.4 percent in “fair” condition. Chip sealing of county roads will be the primary emphasis of the Road Commission’s 2020 budget. Commissioners Monday approved a $17.1 million budget for the year that includes $4.43 million in routine maintenance work on local roads and $4.09 million in similar work on more heavily-traveled roads throughout the county. Exactly how many miles of road surface will be improved will depend on prices the Road Commission receives early next year from contractors when it seeks bids on pav­ ing, asphalt and chip seal work. “It’s an educated guess, based on last year’s prices,” Road Commission Accounting Manager Chris BeBeau said. Over the past decade, the Road Commission has alternated between treating paved roads one year and gravel roads the next. In 2018, the last year paved roads were addressed, about 174 miles of roads were treated with sealcoat and another 46 miles received crack seal treatment, according to Road Commission documents. The amended Road Commission budget for this year stands at a little more than $14.7 million, including $5.68 million for local rou­ tine road maintenance and another $2.46 mil­ lion for routine maintenance on primary roads. In addition to the road maintenance work planned for 2020, about $1.4 million is planned for primary road construction proj­ ects, with the brunt of that work being two bridge replacement projects: one on Charlton Park Road over the Little Thomapple River in Carlton Township, the other on North Avenue/6 Mile Road over Waubascon Creek in Assyria Township. Commissioners Monday approved signing a contract with the Michigan Department of Transportation for those two projects. Road commissioners will meet with town­ ship officials next week to discuss in greater depth the projects planned for each township for 2020. “They come in here, and we do a town­ ship-specific presentation - a road condition report (and) recommendations,” Solmes said. “A lot of our townships are very generous in helping us do projects. We don’t know at this point in time what their wishes will be.” Fiala says each township receives a report on its roads at these meetings. “It has all the history of when (the road) was created, when it was requested we do an overlay or do a seal coat, and when it was actually done,” Fiala said. “We have this detailed, township by township, every single segment that’s paved, all detailed out, all pri­ oritized with our recommendations.” The primary source of funding for the 2020 Road Commission budget - more than $8.18 million - comes from state gasoline, diesel and weight taxes. Another $2.2 million will come from federal grants and more than $2.13 million is expected to come from local town­ ships. The Road Commission has jurisdiction over 345 miles of primary roads and 722 miles of local roads throughout Barry County. Of the local roads, 466 miles are unpaved, according to Road Commission documents. Tentative road projects for 2020 This list is subject to change, pending the outcome of Barry County Road Commission meetings with local townships, which are planned for next week. Chip seal projects: Dowling Road, from M-37 to North Avenue Banfield Road, from Drake Road to Dowling Road Thomapple Lake Road, from Barger Road west to the township line Center Road, from State Road to the township line Center Road, from the Hastings city limits to Charlton Park Road State Road, from Wellman Road to the county line River Road, from Nashville Road to McKeown Road. River Road, from Charlton Park Road to the dead end River Road, from M-37 to Star School Road Bachman Road, from the Hastings city limit to Coats Grove Road McKeown Road, from Nashville Road to River Road Sager and Bedford roads, from South Broadway Road to M-37 Powell Road, from Center Road to State Road South Broadway Road, from the Hastings city limit to the campground Cloverdale Road, from M-43 to Cedar Creek Road Otis Lake Road, from Guernsey Lake Road to the beginning of the gravel section Schultz Road, from M-43 to Cedar Creek Road Marsh Road, from Patterson Road to South Boulter Road Mullen Road, from Norris Road to Lindsey Road 9 Mile Road, from Marsh Road to the county line Graham Road, from Norris Road to Pine Lake Road Keller Road, from Marsh Road to the beginning of the gravel section Lindsey Road, from Wildwood Road to Mullen Road Lindsey Road, from Keller Road to 9 Mile Road Lindsey Road, from 9 Mile Road to Pine Lake Road Norris Road, from Keller Road to 700 feet south of Guernsey Lake to the west Barnum Road, from Durkee Road to Woodland Road Coats Grove Road, from M-66 to the county line Jordan Road, from Martin Road to Wellman Road Velte Road, from M-43 to M-50 Upton Road, from Whitmore Road to M-37 Whitmore Road, from M-37 to M-179 Paving projects: McKeown Road, from Nashville Road to River Road Cloverdale Road, from M-43 to Cedar Creek Marsh Road, from Patterson Road to South Boulter Road The view from above With 2020, a new decade begins. What does the future hold for the City of Hastings and for Barry County? Today, we take a look at what may come through the eyes of local sources and those in the know. We also look back on a decade of development and disaster so as not to repeat history, but to learn from it. More on the year ahead on this page and the years that were inside. (Photo by Scott Harmsen) New year, new superintendent, new city manager, new Blue Zones, and more Rebecca Pierce Editor Barry County is starting a new decade with some projects and new leaders in key posts. Hastings Area School System Superintendent Dan Remenap and Hastings City Manager Jerry Czarnecki started their roles just months ago. A new healthy lifestyle initiative called Blue Zones, the only one in Michigan, was launched in Barry County. A new surgical center is slated to open this year, funded primarily by private donors, con­ necting health care more deeply to the com­ munity it serves. And the criminal justice system is actively engaged in creative sentencing to address some of the community’s toughest issues. Here are some start-of-the-year outlooks from those particular vantage points and a few more: Dan Remenap, superintendent of Hastings Area School System “2020 will be exciting as we start with some major changes: First, we extended recess times for all students PreK-5th grade, so we are excited to see if we notice any changes in learning and or behavior moving forward. “Also, we are going to be banning cell phones in all buildings this semester. We are excited to see the effects of this change, too, on our high school students’ focus, behavior, and attentiveness. We view these to be very positive challenges. “Looking forward, we are also excited about renovations and projects taking place at Hastings High School - the tennis courts, the track, the bleachers, etc. — to help with some well-needed upgrades. We are hoping to have these completed by spring, “Our challenges will continue to be trans­ portation - finding enough bus drivers -- and our very tight budget.” : They are developing ideas to address those challenges, Remenap said, adding, “Stajf tuned.” Kyle Corlett, superintendent of Delton Kellogg Schools See NEW YEAR, page 2 City lays down financial structure for rental rehab projects ahead Rebecca Pierce Editor In its quest for affordable housing, Hastings is putting policies in place to make way for the city’s 118 E. Court St. project. On Dec. 23, the city council moved to accept — if it’s approved by the Michigan Economic Development Corp. — funding not to exceed $400,000 for the project to rehabil­ itate and develop downtown commercial space for residential apartments. The council had adopted a resolution for the application at its June 24 meeting. To comply with state requirements, the council adopted a policy last week that will allow the city to receive funds for Community Block Development Grant Rental Rehab proj­ ects. “We don’t know if it’s going to be awarded yet,” City Manager Jerry Czarnecki said. “But, if they do, the city is going to be the fiduciary. That’s how it works.” The council’s action not only establishes a financial structure for the Court Street project, it puts policies in place for future rental rehab projects in the city, Czarnecki said. “As part of the process for this project, the City must adopt a Section 3 Policy that states that the City of Hastings will provide opportu­ nities to low- and very low-income persons residing in the local unit and will ensure that Section 3 is followed when required by a grant,” he advised council members. The MEDC also allows local governments to acquire the assistance of a certified grant administrator through an approved request for proposal (RFP) process. Three responded. ‘ See PROJECTS, page 5 �Page 2 — Thursday, January 2, 2020 — The Hastings Banner NEW YEAR, continued from page 1 The bond issue that passed seven months ago is fueling changes at Delton Kellogg Schools, including three new buses, new Chromebooks in grades 5-12, new iPads in Kindergarten and first grade, and new sound systems in the high school gym and LGI (large group instruction) auditorium. Updates will continue this summer, Corlett Said, with the updating of the high school ^hrooms and reroofing of most of the mid­ dle school. There also will be work done on tlie softball and baseball fields, and many of ihe parking lots. Plus, a new artificial turf field will be installed. *“A lot of the improvements in the bond, like reroofing the middle school, are really important updates that you can’t really see,” feprlett said. “The community should be ’aware that our top priorities are taking care of & facilities so we can save money in the long run, improving the safety of students, and ^proving the learning environment for stu­ dents. And those improvements aren’t always Wident from the outside looking in.” *"“We’re extremely thankful for a supportive community.” f Jerry Czarnecki, Hastings city manager “As we move into a new year, it is always a time of optimism. There are projects related to housing happening throughout the city. 'This will bring new opportunities to the entire community. “It will be an opportunity for retail to make Jan effort to capture these new residents as new customers. It will be an opportunity for busi­ ness to attract the new residents as new employees. It will be an opportunity for the schools to gain the new residents as new stu­ dents. ■ I t “Hastings is a great place to live, work and play. We will see an opportunity to share that with more people throughout the upcoming year.” Among issues that the city will be dealing with in 2020 are: Recreational marijuana (the ordinance stating that the city will opt out will sunset on May 30) and the increase of small­ cell coverage (5G). “These two issues pro­ vide some potential opportunity for revenue, but also create a need to prepare for the man­ agement of the issues,” Czarnecki said. “So, we do not want to go running into these with­ out doing our homework.” ■ These topics will be discussed by the coun­ cil as they seek opportunities to move forward and pitfalls to avoid, he said. “Residents will see a couple of road proj­ ects happening in the next construction sea­ son. Funding and plans are being finalized, but this also will be discussed in the next couple of months at the council level.” In other developments, a new play structure will be going into Tyden Park in the spring. ■ *“The city is hoping that this will give more opportunities for residents to visit the park,” Czarnecki said. “A focus on updating play equipment in all the parks over the next few years has kicked off. t “Residents can watch for plans and oppor­ tunities to help as we move through the year.” Duane Weeks, Middleville village man­ ager In Middleville, work is progressing on a mixed-use development at 112 E. Main St., just to the east of the Village Hall. Grand Rapids-based developer A J. Veneklasen Inc. signed a development agreement with the village in the fall for the project. The project calls for a three-story building with 3,000 square feet of commercial/retail space on the main floor and 10 apartments on the second and third floors, which could range from one to three bedrooms. “They’re going through their due diligence period,” Weeks said. “They’re doing some soil borings and different things, and looking to the (Michigan Economic Development Corp.) for possible funding with that. That component dictates a little bit when this proj­ ect will get started.” Once construction begins, the $2.9 million project is expected to take about a year to complete, he said. In addition to the planned mix of commer­ cial/retail and residential, the project also could include a pathway and a rain garden. Village officials also plan to update Middleville’s land-use plan, which was last updated in 2014. The village Planning Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads Sheriff Dar Leaf Jerry Czarnecki Judge Michael Schipper Kyle Corlett Allison Troyer Wiswell Angela Ditmar Pastor Gale Kragt Duane Weeks Commission is expected to begin discussions later this month on the master plan, which at some point will include input from local resi­ dents. “The bulk of that plan is 15-18 years old. We’ve seen a lot of change in the community and the desire of the residents (since then),” Weeks said. “I see this as an opportunity to turn the page, start a new canvas and paint a picture that fits the desires of the community at this time.” One new development occurring just out­ side the village limits that could impact the community from an economic standpoint, Weeks says, is the recent action by the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund board recommending a $350,000 grant to be used to acquire 26 acres of property to connect the north end of the Paul Henry Thomapple Trail, which currently ends within the Middleville village limits, with the south end of Kent County’s Paul Henry Trail system in Caledonia Township. “I believe once we get that connectivity to the Caledonia trail, we’re going to see a major increase in business in the community, using this as a trailhead or a destination. I’m very excited with the possibilities,” Weeks said. “I definitely wish we could snap our fingers and have that open and usable right now, just to tie in with some of the other things that are hap­ pening here.” The purchase includes 2.5 miles of aban­ doned rail bed, as well as 300 feet of frontage on the Thomapple River. The grant funding must still be approved by the state Legislature. problem. “We got duped when it was said that vaping would help prevent kids from smoking, that it was better than smoking,” Schipper said. “In fact, vaping is worse.” But, on the plus side, recent federal legisla­ tion that outlaws tobacco use for those under 21 is great news, he said. Schipper sees a lot of the community’s thorniest problems and addictions of all sorts - everything from caffeine to meth - are at the heart of the problems he sees. “Alcohol abuse is still the No. 1 issue com­ ing through Barry County courts.” As far as drugs, “we don’t see much hero­ in,” he said. Meth is the drug. “Mexican cartels are pounding a high potency meth now, con­ cerned about the fact th^t soon we’ll have a closed border.” And that meth is so cheap, Schipper said, that nobody makes it locally anymore. They just buy what’s coming in from elsewhere. Some of the heavily caffeinated drinks are almost setting kids up, he said, for a natural transition to other drugs. “When you’re tired, you need rest. You’re not supposed to pound drugs into your body. We just see so many more people addicted. If we have kids who are addicted, they don’t magically change. “We have to have great kids if we expect them to be great adults down the road.” As far as marijuana, “We haven’t even seen the tip of the iceburg.” Schipper said he’s been talking about put­ ting together a mentoring program for young men under the age of 25 to provide good role models, someone to help guide them, help them be accountable.” Barry County courts starts the year with a full complement on the bench. Judge Donald Johnston, who served as a visiting judge through December, told Schipper that Barry County is a great commu­ nity. “He said life here is like Mayberry - with a little more crime.” gies to help put them into practice.” The intent of Blue Zones is to reduce risk of disease, increasing vitality and longevity. In Part 2, Buettner will guide participants through a series of activities to provide insights and opportunities to make simple changes that can have profound effects on health and happiness. “I am working to create networks of volun­ teers and champions that will help me to pro­ mote and communicate what is upcoming to the various townships, villages, city and coun­ ty,” Troyer Wiswell said. “We are developing training guides for those interested individu­ als to be rolled out late January-early February.” Blue Zones Experts will return here to host summits in March and April for Built Environment and Food Systems areas. ' “We Will begin to create the blueprint for the work, hire grant writers and start moving forward with the identified projects,” she said. In May, Blue Zones will host the Community Kick Off Individual Engagement event, with the date to be announced. of Spiritual Care Consultants of West Michigan Even if there is prosperity in the communi­ ty and improved health in Barry County, there are still spiritual concerns that Pastor Gale Kragt mentioned. “We live in an environment where, even though it seems like the economy is getting better, the divide between the rich and poor is not getting better,” he said. “People who are poor are not getting help. And they’re not able to get help. The unrest is just going to cause anxiety in the new year for those who lack the financial ability to get help.” Fortunately, Barry County has a lot of dif­ ferent services in the area to help those in need. “We are a great county, with food banks and connections to organizations like United Way that help the needy,” he said. “I’m not a doomer and gloomer. “It’s just the fact that the needs are going to continue to grow. So people need to reach out. “And the different organizations within Barry County need to form an even better net to reach people in the community who need help. “I’m trusting the Lord for a good year.” Angela Ditmar, Spectrum Health Pennock president and market leader “We have many health care opportunities and challenges to face in 2020, both here in our community and across the nation,” Ditmar said. “I believe that addressing the ‘social determinants of health’ is both an opportunity and a challenge that will be a game changer in the health care arena. “Much has been written lately about social determinants of health - the social and eco­ nomic factors that can impact your health, like where you live, what you eat, how safe you feel and how connected you are to those around you. “The social determinants of health are the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work and age. Without these factors in place, individuals may experience higher rates of disease, health complications and higher costs associated with their health care. “In fact, a recently published study in the American Journal of Managed Care revealed that individuals with unmet social needs were 68 percent more likely to be readmitted to the hospital within 30 days of discharge.” Ditmar said a summary of key findings from the 2017 Community Health Needs Assessment showed that the Spectrum Health Pennock area was considered to be a caring, connected, giving, and philanthropic commu­ nity where foundations provided resources that help ease some of the social issues. Although resources here may be more lim­ ited when compared to other areas, the com­ munity connectedness and strong collabora­ tive spirit among people and organizations have made up it, she said. “Keeping care local and continuing to respond to the increasing behavioral health and substance abuse needs will be impera­ tive,” Ditmar said. “Continuing strong part­ nerships and collaboration within our service area will be key.” Barry County Judge Michael Schipper Barry County Judge Michael Schipper said a top concern is young people and children “because it’s our responsibility to protect them.” From that perspective, vaping is a huge Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf Sheriff Dar Leaf said there appears to be less opioid usage in Barry County, but resi­ dents are still using meth. Leaf echoed Judge Schipper’s remarks about the meth from Mexico, saying the meth made there is more pure than what is made by small cooking operations in Michigan, and it can be cut and sold at a lower price. Leaf said he has not seen a significant upswing in marijuana usage, in minors or adults, since it was legalized late last year. But some questions of enforcement have been answered in the last year. Although offi­ cers don’t have a scientific field test for THC blood content as they do for alcohol consump­ tion, Leaf said physical sobriety tests can suffice. As long as the officers fully document the behavior of the suspect, and show they were affected by marijuana, they can make a case for operating while impaired. Other questions remain: For possession cases, what type of evidence are judges look­ ing for? Leaf said it still needs to be deter­ mined whether tests done at the scene will suffice or whether the suspected substance will need to be sent to a lab. Allison Troyer Wiswell - Blue Zones Activate Director Barry County First and foremost, Blue Zones launched access to the Blue Zones Online Courses to all residents of Barry County on Jan. 1. “This is a two-part 2-hour course that you can divide up into a weekly lesson or take in all in one sitting led by Dan Buettner (Blue Zones founder). In Part 1 of the course, Dan shares the nine principles for living the Blue Zones way and gives specific, simple strate­ Pastor Gale Kragt, executive director League says 2019 brought policy wins for Michigan kids, workers and families With a deal reached on the 2020 state budget and the Michigan Legislature adjourned for the year, the Michigan League for Public Policy issued a press release reflecting on the previous year’s activity and accomplishments. With a new gubernatorial administration and bipartisan agreement in the Legislature on several key issues, the League has been active in 2019 and notched a number of wins for the people of Michigan. Among the successes were: Raise the Age - Raising Michigan’s age of juvenile court jurisdiction from 17 years old to 18 has been a key issue for the League and its Kids Count work over the past few years, and with work by partners, bipartisan support in the Legislature and Gov. Whitmer’s signature, that change will become a reality. This is a win for kids, families and all of Michigan, since treating justice-involved 17-year-olds as adults regardless of their offense - puts these kids in danger physically, mentally and emotionally and harms their educational, professional and financial opportunities. Increasing the Asset Test Limit for Assistance - Since 2012, the League has been working to improve this policy, which was punishing Michigan residents with lower incomes for saving money. With input from the League, Gov. Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services are increasing the asset test limit for the state’s cash, food and heating assistance programs to $15,000. The new rule also eliminates vehicle considerations for cash and food assistance and allows applicants and recipients to self-attest, changes that lift a paperwork burden from those who need assistance. Expanding overtime eligibility President Donald Trump’s federal overtime change left behind around 200,000 Michigan workers that the Obama administration’s rule would have included. The League helped draw attention to this major oversight, and the governor and Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity are working to address this issue and make more workers eligible at the state level. Outstanding issues State budget - State budget analysis and advocacy is a big part of the League’s work each year. League officials were glad to see a bipartisan budget agreement reached last month, but they will continue to advocate for additional work on outstanding needs, such as funding for the 10 Cents a Meal Program and the broader need for new revenue as a whole. Healthy Michigan Plan work requirements - These work requirements took effect Jan. 1, despite current litigation, pauses on similar moves in other states and continued opposition from the League and other advocates. The League will be monitoring the implementation of these rules closely and will continue to urge the Legislature to pause or eliminate them. Driver’s licenses for all: The League continues to advocate for all policy changes that would better support Michigan’s immigrants, including restoring driver’s licenses for undocumented residents. Legislation has been introduced in the House and Senate and the bills are awaiting action. Criminal record expungement - In addition to Raise the Age, there has been significant bipartisan momentum around a number of criminal justice reforms the League supports, including expanding and automating criminal record expungement for certain offenses. Bills have passed the full House and are currently awaiting action in the Senate. Flavored vaping ban - While it is still working its way through the court system, the League continues to support the governor’s ban on flavored vaping products to address this public health emergency facing Michigan children. The Michigan League for Public Policy, at mlpp.org, is a nonprofit policy institute focused on economic opportunity for all. It is the only state-level organization that addresses poverty in a comprehensive way. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 2, 2020 — Page 3 2010s brought news in many forms Th&Banner delivered a mix of news over the past decade - some of it unexpected, some of it taking on new forms as time passed. The following is a rundown of the top stones in each of the past 10 years. SOUTH 2010 1. MainStreet Savings Bank closed by FDIC 2/ Thomapple Manor citations; state is slow to help remediate 3. Construction begins on Gun Lake Casino 4. State Rep. Brian Calley elected lieutenant governor 5. Pennock Hospital will not move to Ferris property at M-37/M-43 6. First Presbyterian Church relocates to M-37 7. Judge Gary Holman announces upcoming retirement 8. Recycling program suddenly ends for city residents 9. Fire destroys Pro Hardware and Westen’s carpet in Middleville 10. Aukermans sell Prairieville Farm Days property, home to festival for 32 years Residents let their concerns be known as they protest a horizontal hydraulic fractur­ ing well in Carlton Township in August 2017. Ultimately, the well was deemed unsuit­ able for further drilling. IEFFERSON Dave Jasperse (left), pictured with pharmacist Mike Smith, sold his pharmacy 2014, but opened the General Store in its place. Jasperse, an active businessman whq died in April 2016, was behind the whimsical St. Patrick’s Day parade in Hastings. , 2011 1. Questionable book purchase, unfair labor practice claim precede resignation of Hastings Superintendent Rich Satterlee 2. New governor, lieutenant governor have ties to Barry County 3. Gun Lake Casino opens 4. Courts see changes:McDowell, Schipper appointed after Fisher, Holman retire 5. Michigan State Police Hastings Post closed after 35 years 6. Flexfab celebrates 50^ year 7. TS A actions make national headlines after officers disrobe 95-year-old Hastings woman 8. Layaway Santa brings joy to Kmart customers 9. County discovers hundreds of fraudulent mortgage signatures 10. Former Presbyterian church building becomes home to nonprofits The Holiday Inn Express begins to take shape in early 2013. A contractor hired to clear debris where the Coldwater River empties into Jordan Lake continued west, clear-cutting the banks of the small river in 2015, despite prop­ erty owner objections. The work was halted after miles of the trout stream’s banks were stripped. 2012 1. Fracking and leasing of mineral rights touches off protestors and support 2. Hastings Area Schools approves deficit budget, submits deficit induction plan to state 3. Dual bridge projects in Hastings causes months of traffic disruption 4. Prosecutor Tom Evans’ document filing practice in question 5. Weather extremes include 80-plus degrees in March, 90s in May, 100 in July, coupled with summer drought 6. Bradford White expands, opens International Technical Excellence Center 7. Animal care issues lead to restructuring, hiring of shelter director 8. Michael Terpening sentenced in first of three criminal sexual conduct cases 9. New programs launched at Maple Valley increase enrollment; elementary school may reopen 10. Fatal virus EHD spreads among deer; Barry County sees highest rate in state Pennock Hospital officials more than once announced plans to relocate to the M-37/M-43 property once owned by Howard and Kathryn Ferris, but the hospital remained on Green Street and merged with Spectrum Health in 2015. 2013 1. Fracking forums raise issues in county 2. Former Major League Baseball player Chad Curtis convicted on six criminal sexual conduct counts 3. National mission trip organization Group Cares helps Hastings homeowners 4. County navigates troubled waters on mute swan issue 5. Body imaging at jail exposes differing views 6. Remote attendance of elected county officials debated 7. Connecticut school shooting sparks local gun debates 8. Holiday Inn Express hotel opens in Rutland Township 9. Bradford White expands on to former Geukes Market property 10. County establishes sobriety court to battle alcohol-related issues 2014 Student volunteers from the national mission organization Group Cares made an impact on the community after visiting Hastings and sprucing up homes for residents in 2013. New Group Cares volunteers returned to Barry County in 2015, lending a hand at homes in Hastings and Nashville. 1. Pennock Hospital plans to move to Ferris property, but announces merger with Spectrum Health before year ends 2. FBI serves search warrants at sheriff’s office, confiscates computers 3. Record-setting weather begins the year (following December 2013 ice storm) 4. Hastings grad Carrie Duits returns to run district 5. Chad Curtis 2011 sex abuse case still haunts Lakewood district 6. Police push ends in resignation of Barry Township Police Chief Victor Pierce 7. Tom’s Market opens Nov. 1 after Memorial Day Weekend fire 8. Bosley Pharmacy closes; Jasperse will open General Store in its place 9. Kickstart to Career program begins investing in county’s children 10. Middle Villa Inn is closed and razed 2015 1. Coldwater River damaged by contractor 2. Hastings voters approve bond 3. Pennock Hospital, Spectrum Health merge 4. Hastings Manufacturing Company celebrates 100th 5. Undersheriff Bob Baker avoids criminal charges 6. Nashville attempts setting ice cream sundae world record 7. Middleville’s Main Street bridge replacement ties up traffic for months 8. Student-count errors create headaches for Delton Kellogg schools 9. Lakewood school district shutters two elementary buildings 10. County courts begin performing same­ sex marriages 2016 Funding for two bridge projects inadvertently became available the same year: 2012. The Michigan Avenue bridge was completely rebuilt, and the M-43 bridge near Tyden Park was repaired. The dual projects reduced six lanes of north/south traffic to two lanes, creating what likely was the biggest disruption of traffic in the city’s history. 1. Hastings schools, Thornapple Plaza, new stores, county’s Community Mental Health building highlight growth in county 2. Local trails improved, expanded 3. Four young heroes save two lives (10-year-old saves dad; three teens save 7-year-old) 4. Son, girlfriend sent to prison after assaulting his mother 5. County employees voice wage and Construction of the Thornapple Plaza entertainment venue in Hastings progress^ in 2016. The jazz festival in April served as both the deadline for the project’s comple­ tion and the debut of the outdoor concert site. benefit concerns 6. Victim of Whitneyville assault dies; teen charged with murder 7. Sandyland outdoor concert venue revived in Nashville 8. Chad Curtis opts not to seek re-sentencing 9. Enrollment numbers higher than anticipated in most districts 10. Accident claims life of three members of Rayner family from Lake Odessa 2017 1. TOST program contention continues 2. Fracking hits home when drilling begins in Carlton Township; injection well approved in Johnstown Township 3. Chad Curtis, Lakewood school to pay victims 4. Yankee Springs sees a disparaging year in township government 5. Spoor’s marina on south side of Gun Lake draws criticism 6. Expanded cancer center at Pennock Hospital keeps patients close to home 7. Community Health Center offers integrated care 8. Friend shot, young mother killed by husband, Ralph Bowling, who then sets fire to home 9. Local government in a haze over medical marijuana 10. Hastings police sergeant Cleon Brown sues city, claiming discrimination 2018 1. $280,000 later, Crooked Lake still has no concrete solution 2. Controversial TOST regulation rescinded 3. Open murder trial of Ralph Bowling III results in life conviction J 4. Bay Pointe Inn secures approval for facility expansion 5. Transit/jail/COA planning hits the gaFand the brakes . 6. Fire destroys Maple Valley Concrete in Nashville ' < <■' 7. The Landing is granted 20 boat slips aha r"* I *4 no more 8. Son kills parents, self 9. High school students ‘walk out,’ hold assemblies in honor of victims of Florida school shooting 10. Winter Storm Bruce ushers in wintef iij late November 10. (tie) Hastings Township voters turn down library millage renewal by 13 votes 2019 1. Crooked Lake flooding continues " 2. Some stores, like Kmart, close, other businesses change, expand . M 3. Royal Coach, Moose projects proceed in affordable housing push 4. Weather adds to flooding, farmers struggle, fields fallow 5. Pennock Surgery center construction begins * 6. Gunman kills two in Orangeville, shoots at motorists 7. PFAS and CAFOs amoifg environmental concerns » 8. EEE causes illness, deaths; schools forced to change schedules 9. Hastings Performing Arts CenteiJ opens, new Steinway celebrated 10. Attempted murder case highlights meth addiction * �Page 4 — Thursday, January 2, 2020 — The Hastings Banner In My OpinHm Let’s ring in a meaningful new year Is this really spring? Is this just fantasy? Unseasonably warm weather across the area on Dec. 26 did not just wake up the hikers along the North Country National Scenic Trail in Irving Township, it also pulled frogs away from their winter slumber to enjoy the sunshine and stretch their legs. . It was one of the warmest Christmas Days ever in Michigan last week, and. records were set the next day as high temperatures were at or above 60 degrees across much of southern Michigan. Do you remember? Fair business Banner Dec. 17, 1959 New fair board members - In what probably was the biggest Barry County 'Agricultural Society election in history, ".three Hastings business and profession­ al men were elected to the board for .fhree-year terms Saturday. They are {from left) Richard Shuster, attorney at ■ law; Marshall Cook, advertising director .for Hastings Manufacturing Company; and Russell Hankins, manager of Miller ■Jewelers. Leo Barth (right) was their Campaign manager and promoted the unusual interest in the county fair, aim­ ing for more outstanding exposition, he " said. The new directors are to meet with 'ihe six holdover directors - Howard Smith, Russell Solomon, Simon ,, Maichele, Alva Johnson, Adelbert Heath /and Arthur Steeby - the first Saturday in January to organize for the coming year. ■[Barth was a photographer, and many of '•‘his photos from the mid-1900s are still ■ Used today.] Ils -it. si:. Have you met? Marti Gallagher doesn’t describe herself .as particularly outgoing. She loves her family uand her job at Tom’s Market in Hastings and ■:is content with the simple things in life. She • is happy just to be alive. to Gallagher, 66, was bom Jan. 31,1953, at /Pennock Hospital to Francis A. & Edna M. (Brown) Gallagher. Her family lived in Hastings, and moved to Wall Lake near Delton when she was 5. She attended Delton Kellogg Schools Where she was involved in music program, nplaying clarinet in the band. She graduated f in 1971 and later took some management courses at Kellogg Community College. As an adult, she realized what she wanted more than anything was to have a child. Being a single mother, adoption wasn’t going to be an option. So, she took a brave step and talked to her doctor about artificial insemination. “I was 35 at the time I had the procedure done, and at that time, single moms didn’t do that. But I figured I wasn’t going to get married and I really wanted a child. So, I went through the whole battery of psychological profiling that was necessary for a single mother satisfy their requirements. The facility I went to in Grand Rapids was much more discerning when it came to single mothers. They wanted to make sure you were not only capable, but mentally stable enough to handle the raising of a child on your own.” After more than a year of trying, her son, David F. Gallagher, was bom May 1, 1988, at Pennock Hospital. Her son, now 31, lives in Grand Rapids and is engaged to be married. A good part of her career was at Hastings City Bank where she was the data center manager for 18 years until she was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. The treatments depleted her savings, she lost her insurance and eventually her job. “You have to cut down on a lot of things that you do because you can’t be too far from home,” she said. customers get the best service possible. For her love of her family, her determination to beat cancer, and her dedication to customers at Tom’s Market, Marti Gallagher is this week’s Banner Bright Light. Marti Gallagher David was in middle school at the time and watched his mom struggle through all of it. Gallagher went from the mom who was always outside playing in the yard or playing basketball in the driveway, to the mom who was going to the doctor several times a week for appointments or coming home from surgeries and chemotherapy treatments. But, she did her best to never let him down nor miss a bit of his life while he was growing up, regardless of what she was going through. “The doctors told me I probably wasn’t going to beat this, but I showed them,” she said. “They removed 21 lymph nodes. I worked through the whole thing.” She has worked at Tom’s Market for the past seven years and said she feels a sense of family there. Her son worked there through high school and college. When she’s at work, Gallagher said, she doesn’t mind being outgoing and doing her best to make sure My first job: Working in the cost accounting department at E.W. Bliss. Person I would most like to meet: Both of my grandmothers. They had both passed away before I was bom. If I could build anything, it would be: A house for my son and his fiancee. If I could go anywhere in the world: I have always wanted to do is go on a cruise. A warm sunny place sounds great. But I hear the Alaskan cruise is beautiful. I have always wanted to go to Hawaii, too. Greatest song ever written: “Thank you for loving me” by Bon Jovi. Favorite TV program: Actually, I have three of them: “New Amsterdam,” “This is Us” and “The Voice.” I am most proud of: My son David is my best gift ever and is also what I am most proud of. He has become a loving man with a huge heart. Biggest challenge: My health has been and continues to be my biggest challenge. Favorite childhood memory: One Christmas my folks were remodeling our house. We just had studs for walls and a wooden floor. But I remember my brother and I got a kid-sized pool table, and my dad and uncle were playing with it. No matter the construction going on around them, you could see the family love. Each week, the Banner profiles a person who makes the community shine. Do you know someone who should be featured because of volunteer work, fun-loving personality, for the stories he or she has to tell or any other reason? Send information to Newsroom, Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news @j-adgraphics .com. Ten . . . Nine . .. Eight.. . We did it again, another New Year and another new decade. Welcome to 2020. The New Year’s holiday has been a time for people all over the world to celebrate with favorite traditions —countdowns, fire­ works, champagne. . . and resolutions. For many, the advent of a new year means big promises to take big steps to make big changes. This will be the year to get a better body, a better salary or a better love life. Others resist the urge to set a resolution and make fun of the rest of us because they know that surveys consistently report that only 6 percent of us stick to our resolutions 100 percent and only 14 percent of us admit that we “mostly” stuck to those things we promised ourselves. Instead of a new start, the New Year offers a new start on old hab­ its. So here’s my suggestion for a 2020 New Year’s resolution: Let’s resolve to end reso­ lutions. Why bother? Why bother to set all of these goals when chances are, not only will we not achieve them, but we will forget them halfway through the year? Then we’ll pull them out of the chest of buried dreams again next year. So let’s stop. Let’s put an end to this tire­ some tradition and find a new way to move into a new year. If we approach all of our life goals the same way we approach our New Year’s resolutions, we’re in big trou­ ble. Resolutions are a type of goal, but real­ ly no different. The only difference is that we declare them at the beginning of the year. Maybe the better questions to ask are: Why do we need goals at all? Do we need to be so achievement-oriented? Do we always need to be thinking about what to do next? Why do we need to constantly stress our bodies and stretch our minds? Why do we feel the need to live in the future instead of the present? New Year’s resolutions shut out our need for mindfulness, an ability to live in the present rather than dwelling on the past or anticipating the future. Thinking back to the person we did not want to be in 2019 and resolving to correct that image in 2020 just sets us up for self-criticism and judgment. We risk becoming depressed from what we were in the past and becoming anxious about what we want to become in the future. Mindfulness - living in the present - lowers stress, reduces harmful reflection and pro­ tects against anxiety and depression. My other difficulty with New Year’s res­ olutions is that they always seem to be so self-focused. Eat healthy, get a better job, climb a mountain — they are all noble pur­ suits and, ultimately, may benefit all of society, but their central point is inward. Might there be room some new year for resolutions of thanks for all we’ve been given? Or for an expression of purpose to help those less fortunate? That’s where a society that so truly needs it can benefit especially if it becomes a new year’s tradi­ tion for the youngest among us. The new generations - do they make New Year’s resolutions? That’s another of my concerns. Seems like the oldest of us don’t make resolutions because there’s so little time to make a change. Younger people may not set resolutions because they figure they have so much time in which to make correc­ tions. But how about the very young? We often complain about their lack of ambition, intent, and passion, but are we offering them counsel or setting an example of how to not just make a New Year’s resolution but also how to set goals for a lifetime? Resolutions are an important part of a goal, they can be the impetus that leads to a life accomplishment. That’s something every young person should come to under­ stand - all of us who set these constant res­ olutions every New Year’s Eve should have the same realization. Accomplishments are achieved after long, hard work and they are more powerful than the simple platitudes issued every New Year’s holiday. I don’t have an all-encompassing answer to these questions and I’m not aware of any singular, definitive scientific explanation for why we feel the need to make resolu­ tions every New Year’s Day and then so quickly watch them drift downstream days and weeks later. Most likely, we all have our What do you own reasons for making resolutions or defining the more important life goals. These are mine: 1. Goals are how things get done. From everyday things like getting up for work in the morning to once-in-a-lifetime dreams like seeing the Great Wall of China, success is achieved when we envi­ sion our eventual accomplishment as a goal. 2. Goals are the language of the brain. One of the most important functions of the brain—and the most recent in terms of our evolution—is executive function, a cluster of cognitive abilities that evolved to enable us to set and achieve goals. This brain function is what sets us apart from all other living things. Most other creatures react based on instinct; we take action based on planning. 3. Goals mean clarity. Goals provide a vision and a direc­ tion. They give a destination and enable us to plan our course into the future. Without goals, we risk wasting our resources (time, money, energy), feeling confused and over­ whelmed, and being unprepared when opportunities arise. 4. Goals give us meaning. Goals give life meaning through pur­ pose. Purpose is the deeper reason for why we want to accomplish a goal. Behind the stated goal (“I want to get a Ph.D. in psy­ chology...”) is our desire to do something to improve our lives and the lives of others (“...so that I can contribute to the fight against mental illness.”). Purpose is what motivates us and moves us to take action. 5. Goals make us feel good. As neuroscientists learn more and more about the emotional circuits of the brain, they are discovering that one of our most basic emotional reactions is happiness through pursuit. Being actively engaged in the pursuit of a goal activates the brain’s pleasure centers, independent of the out­ come. It seems that we derive more pleasure from chasing our dreams than from achiev­ ing them. Could that overused adage about the journey and the destination have an actual biological substrate? 6. Goals mean progress. In every aspect of human life, we achieve progress through setting goals. Goals are what drive advances in science, education, medicine, public policy, law, and govern­ ment. Progress in all these fields happens when people set, pursue, and achieve goals. If there are no goals, there is confu­ sion. And confusion can delay or thwart progress. 7. Goals need a sound default alternative. Without suggesting that we should plan out every minute of our lives, think about what the goal’s default is: What do you do when you are not working toward getting something done? Is it a productive or enjoy­ able default? Or is it something that you later regret, like binge-watching a TV show or reading Facebook posts? 8. Goals keep us connected. Common goals are the foundational block upon which we build communities. From families to sports teams, from small start­ ups to large corporations, and from social movements to entire nations, the success of a group depends on how much its members believe in a common goal. I realize that my reasons for setting goals may not be your reasons. What drives me to set goals, on New Year’s Day or any other day, may not be what drives you. But instead of making light of a tradition, let’s put our heads together to think of more rea­ sons to keep the custom alive and make it more meaningful. Happy New Year. Fred Jacobs, CEO, J-Ad Graphics Inc. think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported along with a new question the following week. Last week: Michigan is among the lowest rated states in the nation for its drunken driving laws, according to the Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Do you think these laws should be tougher? Yes 83% No 16% For this week: A new law prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to anyone under the age of 21 is now in effect in the U.S. Does that go far enough? □ Yes □ No �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 2, 2020 — Page.5 PROJECTS, continued from page 1 Tongue in cheek: A proposed President Trump farewell address, whenever that day comes... To the editor: First, a paragraph from George Washington’s farewell address in September 1796: “The alternate domination of one faction over another, sharpened by the spirit of revenge, natural to party dissension, which in different ages and countries has perpetrated the most horrid enormities, is itself a frightful despotism. But this leads at length to a more formal and permanent despotism. The disor­ ders and miseries which result gradually incline the minds of men to seek security and repose in the absolute power of an individual; and, sooner or later, the chief of some prevail­ ing faction, more able or more fortunate than his competitors, turns this disposition to the purposes of his own elevation, on the ruins of public liberty.” Below is a proposed farewell address for President Trump in 2021 or 2025, depending on his departure date: “The alternate domination of one Democratic Party over another such as me and the Republican Party, sharpened by the spirit of revenge, natural to a party who was unexpectedly defeated in 2016, which in dif­ ferent ages and countries has perpetrated the most horrible rise of extreme liberals such as “The Squad” is itself a frightful despotism. But this leads at length to a more formal and permanent despotism. The disorders and mis­ eries which result from this socialism gradu­ ally incline the minds of men to seek security and repose in a socialist government; and, sooner or later, the chief of some prevailing faction, such as candidate Bernie Sanders, less able and more fortunate than his compet­ itors Joe Biden and Elizabeth Warren, turns this disposition to the purposes of his own elevation, on the ruins of public liberty. Stephen L. Williams Hastings (write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: •All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless thq^ iis a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; U.S. mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Gary Peters, Democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510­ 2202, phone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room 720, 110 Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 233­ 9150. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings BcHHICT Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 News and press releases: news@j-adgraphics.com •Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com Frederic Jacobs Publisher & CEO Hank Schuuring CFO • NEWSROOM• Greg Chandler Taylor Owens > f f"' Where we’re from taught us well - have we forgotten? ’ '■ Sunday morning power outage likely caused by heavy rain Greg Chandler Staff Writer Some Consumers Energy customers in the Hastings area woke up Sunday morning to find they were without power. An outage was reported shortly before 5 a.m. south of the city when a circuit went down in the area of Tanner Lake and Cook roads, Consumers spokesman Roger Morgenstern said. The outage is believed to have been weath­ er-related. “Sometimes if we get a heavy rain, it affects the equipment,” Morgenstern said. A total of 831 Consumers customers in the city of Hastings, along with Rutland and Hastings charter townships, were affected. Service was restored at 7:38 a.m., Morgenstern said. Dann Howitt a result, he decided not to fan more flames I am from Hastings. and opted out of seeing our president speak 30 Well, I was bom in Battle Creek, but my miles away. family moved to Hastings when I was 8. After This should never have happened, but it is high school, I went on to college in East totally in step with the level of vitriol and Lansing and later in Fullerton, Calif. hatred our country knows now. We should all Following university, I went on to play pro­ feel shame being the adults in this equation. fessional baseball for 12 years. Whenever Our children are growing up not knowing asked for a hometown, I proudly said there was a different United States in the not“Hastings, Michigan.” Most of my baseball so-distant past. And they are watching us cards and team press guides will confirm that. while learning their new “normal”. Hastings has always been a little back­ I do not care for our current president for wards. People from bigger cities in the state many reasons. And I won’t be voting for him joke about it at times. They say we’re all hicks next election. and ask me if I drove a tractor to school. But my friend, and fellow American, hast Whatever. It’s my hometown. Where I learned every right to vote as he pleases. Without fear. the importance of community. And neighbors. He should be able to gather peacefully, say And church. And why I should be proud to be whatever he likes and post whatever he feels an American. It’s where I learned how to play in his pursuit of life, liberty and happiness baseball. I’d never trade my childhood for as long as it doesn’t threaten my rights to dq theirs. These outsiders just don’t understand the same. Basic First Amendment rights: and never will. They should have been as Without that one, there is no point to any of lucky as I was. the following 26 amendments. And then there In all consciousness, I couldn’t say I have is no point to our democracy. better friends from any other place. The There is a greater point to this diatribe. And friends I had in Hastings when I was 12 are it’s this: We can rise above this current politi­ still my friends at 55. These friends and I have cal situation. If there’s one thing that defines gone on to lead our different lives, marry, us as Americans, it’s that, no matter the situa­ have children and have pursued varied careers. tion, we can do better. We’ve done it before We all have more recent friends from differ­ many times. We can remember that the guy ent worlds and cultures now, but we are still we know can disagree with us and still be our brothers and sisters from other fathers and friend. Just because a guy has a MAGA hat on mothers. My friends’ parents helped raise me. doesn’t mean I can’t help him dig his car out I know I caused them as many headaches as I of the snow. Tell that neighbor whose TV caused my own mom. As a result, we love and never leaves Fox or MSNBC that his kid wan­ look out for each other’s kids just like our dered down the street. Cheer for the Saxons folks did. That is our normal. next to a guy with neck tattoos and a Bernie We argue. We group-text and meet up. We Sanders T-shirt. We must remember we are laugh. We act like 12-year-olds even with our much more than the sum of our political bald heads and beards. (OK. I’m the only bald beliefs. one, but you get me.) We disagree. We see eye But, most of all, remember that we are all to eye on a lot and back to back on certain from Hastings. Where neighbors are import­ things. As can be predicted in 2019, among ant. Where children are important. Where those “back to back” issues are politics. We community is important. Our politics? Just a have strong feelings about them, and debate part of who we are. And we sure don’t need to with each other in between fish pictures and threaten violence against each other because graduation announcements. of them. That’s not how we were raised. So why did I feel the need to pen this edi­ The country will survive this president and torial? One of these friends, who I completely many others. But we are now in charge of disagree with politically, has been threatened how we conduct ourselves and how we treat and harassed for saying he was going to the one another through all of them. We are Trump rally in Battle Creek. He is not a wilt­ Americans before we are conservatives or ing flower and fully capable of protecting liberals. And we all have kids to teach how to himself. But after talking with him about it, it get along in a plural society. came as a surprise to me that this wasn’t the We can do better. first time. He has been threatened and harassed for years because of his outspoken or simply implied beliefs. Moreover, these petty people Dann Howitt is a Michigan native who have put his family and livelihood under grew up in Hastings and now lives in threat. Scared his kids. Infuriated his wife. As Holland. ■■ .... ............. 1; - n. Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 Hastings ANNER feta® Middleville: Woodland: Freeport: One Stop Shop (Phillips 66) (M-43 North) Superette Family Fare Speedway : : Middleville Marketplace Greg’s Get-It-N-Go Middleville Johnny's Woodland Express L&J’s Cloverdale: Nashville: Tom's Market Gun Lake: Cloverdale General Brown’s Cedar Creek Grocery FamilyFare Delton Johnny’s Trading Post Little s Country Store Nashville Johnny’s MV Pharmacy Nashville C Store Carl's / Bm&eldi Lake Odessa: Banfeld General Store LakeO-Express Lake-O-Mart lake Odessa Johnny's Carl’s Hastings Johnny's Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The General Store Sam’s Gourmet Foods The Dock Store Marathon Pine Lake: Mega Bev Doster Country Store Penn-Nook Gift Shop Prairieville: Phillips 66 Gas Station (W. State St.) Prairieville Fast Stop Phillips 66 Gas Station (M-37 West) Orangeville: Dowling: Family Fare Gas Station Orangeville Fast Stop Goldsworthys Dowling General Store Scott Ommen Ty Greenfield Mike Gilmore Chris Silverman Jennie Yonker $50 per year in adjoining counties $55 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box 188 Hastings, Ml 49058-0188 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, Ml 49058 In other business: • New Year’s celebration events are set. Mayor Dave Tossava will begin the count­ down for the midnight sound and light display at the 11th annual Ball Drop downtown. • On Dec. 17, the police department gave away 20 turkey dinners to families; on Dec. 19, the police department gave away at least $500 in gasoline to help people during the holidays. ... • The police department handled 526 com­ plaints in November, including 13 traffic accidents, two involving injury and 11 involv­ ing property damage; issued 37 tickets; including 11 for moving violations; and made a total of 43 arrests. • City employee Eric Ingram will be retir­ ing in January; a Jan. 10 open house/lunch is planned in his honor from noon to 2 at tlje Department of Public Works bus garage. • In January, the city will begin its budget­ ing process. The council will be provided with a proposal of common operation procedures and goals from last year’s goals and objec­ tives documents. This will be the focus of a goal-setting workshop on Jan. 27. GUEST COMMENTARY • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Subscription Rates: $45 per year in Barry County Rebecca Pierce (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer (Sports Editor) Section 3 residents are fourth priority. According to the city’s policy as adopted, all contractors must seek low- or very low-in­ come persons residing in the city of Hastings or Barry County for 30 percent of all new hires. When applicable, the contractor must show evidence of seeking project residents for 15 percent of the new hires. However, with regard to employment or contracting, nothing in the policy “shall be construed to require the employment or con­ tracting of a Section 3 resident or contractor who does not meet the qualifications of the position to be filled or who cannot perform the contracts,” it states. The policy also dictates handling of com­ petitive bids and compliance with training, hiring and contracting requirements. Every contractor on these rental rehabilita­ tion projects will have to sign an agreement with the city that includes a reference to the Section 3 Policy statement. The council’s approval of the policy allows the city to receive funds not only for the Court Street project, but other future projects as well, Czarnecki said. Out of a possible 210 points, the three were scored as follows: Marilyn Smith of Smith Housing Consulting, 196; Revitalize LLC, 145; and Emily Pantera, 97.5. At its meeting last week, the city chose Smith Housing Consulting in Hastings for the Court Street project. According to Community Development Director Dan King, “Not only did Marilyn score the high point total of all the respon­ dents, she has also administered several other successful rental rehab projects for the city in the past. “Funding for the grant administrator is included in the grant expenses and reimbursed from CDBG funds. The city will also be reim­ bursed for front administration expenses of up to $6,250 from the grant and the owner’s equity contribution to the project.” The Court Street property is owned by Marv Helder. The Section 3 Policy, as adopted by the council, dictates that the city of Hastings “shall provide opportunities to low- and very low-income persons residing in their local unit of government ... Accordingly, the City of Hastings shall implement policies and pro­ cedures necessary to implement this policy covering all procurement contracts where labor and/or professional service are provid­ ed. ... and contractors who install materials and equipment.” Section 3 is a provision of the Housing and Urban Development Act which recognizes that HUD funds are typically one of the larg­ est sources of federal funds expended in com­ munities, in the form of grants, loans, entitle­ ment allocations and other forms of financial assistance. The policy is intended to ensure that, when employment or contracting opportunities are generated because a covered project necessi­ tates the employment of additional persons or the awarding of contracts for work, those opportunities must be posted in the communi­ ty where residents will see them and prefer­ ence must be given to low- and very low-in­ come persons or business concerns in the community where the project is located. To meet the goals to provide training, employment and contracting opportunities, contractors must choose employees according to the following priority: Residents of the development where the work is to be per­ formed are the first priority; residents of the neighborhood where the work is being per­ formed are second priority; other residents of the neighborhood who are participants in HUD-Youthbuild or other federal, state or local job programs being carried out in the city of Hastings or Barry County are third priority; and other residents in the project neighborhood who meet the definition of Walgreens Delton: Shelbyville: Town & Country �Page 6 — Thursday, January 2, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Worship Together ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616-690­ 8609. HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1674 S. State Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 Phone 269-945­ 2285. Sunday morning service time: 10 a.m. with nursery and preschool available. FREEPORT BAPTIST CHURCH 380 County Line Rd., Freeport, MI 49325. (269) 760-1928. Pastor Ron. A traditional style of worship, no gimmicks, and friendly people welcome you to worship at "an old country church." Sunday School 9: 45 a.m. Sunday Worship 11 a.m. Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study and Prayer 7p.m. Give us the pleasure of meeting you! LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852­ 1783. Sunday service 10am. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. HASTINGS HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 2920 S. M-37 Hwy. (M-37 at M-79) Pastor Kim Metzer. Phone 269-945-4995. hastingshopeumc.org hastingshopeumc@gmail. com. We welcome YOU to ■ join us on Sunday Mornings at 10:30 for worship! Find Us On Facebook! @ ■ hastingshopeumc. PLEAS ANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH । 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve ; Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time ' Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. I MCCALLUM UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH 5505 Otis Lake Rd., Delton, [ MI 49046. Phone: 269-623­ 8226. New pastor - Jerald Jones. Sunday Service: 10: 31-11:46; Coffee Connection. Nursery, Children's ministry. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIA INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-795■ 2370 and the rectory number is 269-948-9327. Our church website is www.samchurch. org. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 765, (corner of Milo Rd. &S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11:30am, Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 to 7:30 pm. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616-731-5194. GREEN STREET UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green St., Hastings, MI 49058. Rev. Bryce Feighner Office Phone: 269­ 945.9574. Email: office, greenstreetumc @ gmail.com. Sunday, Schedule - The Praise 9:30 a.m. ; The Word 10 a.m.; The Table 10:30 a.m. Nursery Care is available through age 4; PreK-8th grade Sunday School 10 a.m.; Sunday School for Adults at 11 a.m. Upright Revolt Youth Ministry (6th-12th grades) 5:30-7:30 p.m. FREE Community Meal every Tuesday at 5 p.m. Refer to Facebook for weather conditions. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30-8 p.m., AWANA (Children Kindergarten-5th Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948­ 8004 for information on MITT (Mothers in Training Together), Sports Ministries, Quilting, Ladies Bible Study. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel­ chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF HASTINGS Sharing Jesus with our community & the world! 405 N. M-37 Hwy., Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. w.w wTjrstchurch ha sting s. org, 9 a.m. Classes and Gatherings for All ages; 9:45 a.m. Worship (Children's Worship Offered); 10:45 a.m. Coffee Fellowship; 11:15 a.m. Coffee Talk with Pastor Dan. Follow us on Facebook. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Kathy Smith. Sunday Worship 9:15 am COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand St., Hastings. Pastor Ken Hale. Sunday School for adults and children 9: 45 a.m.; Sunday Service 11 a.m. Nursery provided. Call 269-945-9217. cbchastings. org. We are a small church, but we serve a mighty Lord. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of Who jesus Is To The World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy., P.O. Box 8, Hastings. Telephone 269­ 945-9121. Email hastfmc@ gmaiLcom. Website: wwwhastz ingsfreemethodist.com. Pastor Brian Teed, Student Ministries Director, Emma Miller, Wor­ ship Director, Martha Stoetzel. Sundays: Nursery and tod­ dler (birth through age 3) care provided. SUNDAY MORN­ ING FAMILY HOUR WEL­ COMES ALL AGES AND STAGES OF LIFE AT 9:30 a.m. Deep Blue, Loving God, Loving Neighbor: Preschool age 3-5th Grade. Live: 6th-12th Grade. Adult Standard and Adult Elective classes. Coffee Talk: Fellowship Hall. Cookies at 10:05 a.m. Worship Service: 10: 30 a.m. & Children's Church age 44th grade dis­ missed during service. Youth Group at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Women's Bible Study at 6:30 p.m. Thursday Bible Study at 10 a.m., 2nd Tues: Young Wom­ en’s Small Group at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week: Wom­ en's Bible Study at 6:30 p.m. Kid's Club, Oct. 16-Dec. 4, 6:30-7:45 p.m. Bible Study at 10 a.m. For more information please contact the church. Discover God's Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Jan. 5 - Worship services at 8 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Nursery available. Jan. 6 - social Activities Mtg. 5 p.m. Jan. 7 - Executive Mtg. 6 p.m. pastorken@grace-hastings. org. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269-945-2698. www.grace-hastings.org. Facebook: Grace Lutheran Church-ELCA Hastings, MI. Hhasthgs HgtlimMs&Mimeiit Hastings 945-9554 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 It is with sorrow to announce that Gene F. Wake, formerly of Hastings, passed away December 14,2019 after a short illness. Gene was predeceased by his wife of 50 years, Nancy Carroll (Stark) Wake. Gene was bom July 1st, 1931 in New Castle, IN to Cloyd and Stella (Field) Wake. Young Gene attended New Castle schools and graduated in 1949. Gene joined the Army, and served first in with a mortar unit before transferring into the Finance Corp. After being honorably discharged, he attended Ball State University in Muncie, IN. It was the start of an academic career that would end with two bachelors’ degrees and a master’s in education. It was at Ball State that he met Nancy Stark. The two were married in 1952 and were blessed with three children: Darrell, Steve, and Randy. Gene spent most of his adult life working in education, spending 30+ years as the principal of Prairie Heights Elementary. After retirement, he and Nancy took frequent trips to the Southwest and Mexico, often disappearing for weeks at a time on the road. The two moved to Hastings in 1999 to be closer to family. Gene will be remembered for his warm personality, great sense of humor, and a love of mysteiy novels. Later in life, he made it a point to have a beer with his neighbors. His legacy will live on in his sons, their children, and the countless other children whose life he was a part of. He was loved by his children, grandchildren, and great­ grandchildren, and wiftbejnissed. Visitation will be oh January 2, 2020 at the Beeler-Gores Funeral Home from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Memorial contributions to Barry County Commission on Aging will be appreciated. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Gene’s family. Charles Albert Dennis, Jr. FREEPORT, MI - Shirley Marie Blakely, age 67, of Freeport, passed away on December 20, 2019. Shirley was bom on June 16, 1952, the daughter of Dennis and Alice (Nash) Frederickson. Shirley was a 1971 graduate of Lakewood High School. On December 1, 1972, she married Randy Blakely. Shirley worked at Pennock Hospital and Dr Wildem’s office until her retirement. Shirley was a member of the Hastings Free Methodist Church. She enjoyed camping, golf, mushrooming, being part of the fearsome five, fishing at Little Shag Lake, playing softball with D&H Builders Girls, and shot a hole-inone at Tyler Creek Hole #8. Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, brother Denny Dale Frederickson, granddaughters Olivia and Emma Blakely, and Special Aunt Marie Grinnell. She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Randy Blakely, mother-in-law Joy Blakely, sons Kurt (Erin) Blakely, Kris (Tammy) Blakely, grandchildren Carson and Hannah Blakely, brothers-in-law Kelly Blakely, Bruce Blakely, sisters-in-law Jayne Blakely, Carol (Mark) Gates, Yvonne Frederickson, special nieces Tina. (Kevin) Fisher, Stacey (Joe) Yeiter, special cousins Darrell (Cheryl) Grinnell and Sharon Neal. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome Foundation or Mackenzie’s Animal Sanctuary. A funeral service was held on Monday, Dec. 23, 2019 at the Hastings Free Methodist Church. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home 328 S Broadway; Hastings, MI 49058. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. Hughie Gene McPherson GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Mark L. Patterson Gene F. Wake 1301W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 WAYLAND, MI - Charles “CJ” Albert Dennis, Jr. of Wayland died on December 22, 2019 in Wyoming, at age 26 after battling an illness. He was bom in Grand Rapids on December 3, 1993. He graduated from Thomapple Kellogg School in Middleville, in 2012. He was working at Bradford White. CJ was a writer who loved animals, especially his cat, listening to music, watching scary movies and target shooting. Most of all he loved being with his family and friends. CJ was preceded in death by his grandparents, David Winquest, Gloria and Victor Dennis, and uncle John Winquest. He is survived by his mother, Brenda (Loren) McVay; father, Charles (Christine) Dennis; brother, Adam McVay; sister, Amber McVay; step-brother, Joshua (Jen) McVay; step-sister, Brooke (Gordi) Wiest; grandmothers, Mary Winquest and Pamaler Dennis; uncle, Larry Dennis; aunt, Ann (Jeff) Junge, and many nephews, nieces and cousins. A Celebration of Life service will held be on January 4, 2020 at Thomapple Valley Church 2750 M-43, Hastings, MI 49058 at 11 a.m. with visitation one-hour prior and luncheon to follow. Contributions can be made to NEPHCure at https://nephcure.org/. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave online condolences visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. PLAINWELL, MI - Hughie Gene McPherson, age 72, of Plainwell passed away on December 27,2019 at his home. Hugh was a 1965 graduate of Maple Valley High School where he excelled at football. A veteran, Hugh proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. Hugh ran an auto parts store and did excavating for many years before becoming an auto salesman for over 30 years. An accomplished banjo player, Hugh could often be found playing at the Old Plank Road in Plainwell. Hugh was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting and fishing. He loved animals of all kinds, especially his dogs and horses. Hugh is survived by his significant other, Kris Newland; sons, Ryan (Diana Small) Allen and Aaron (Francine) Allen; grandson, Carter Allen; sister, Marylou (Ken) Heikka; nephew, John Heikka; close friends, Steve (Deb) Newland; Adrian (Mikey) Newland; Craig (Linda) Newland, and Nate (Tasha) Newland and former spouse, Janet Hill Pollard. Hugh was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Ricky McPherson. According to Hugh’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are planned at this time. he family would like to thank all of the first responders for their care of Hugh. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Hugh’s family. LAKE ODESSA, MI - Mark L. Patterson, age 70, of Lake Odessa passed suddenly at his home on December 24,2019. He was bom in Madison, W1 to Ross and Eve (Lytle) Patterson on August 8, 1949. Mark proudly served his country in the Navy. He was a hard-working individual with a great sense of humor and a quick wit. Mark made friends easily and often. He was married for 44 years to Patricia Joanne McCuaig and she survives. He leaves behind his wife, Patricia; daughters, Karyn (Craig) Barrett and Jennifer (Michael) Kalmink; grandchildren, Ethan and Kaleigh Barrett, Joseph Kalmink; siblings, Frank Patterson, Bruce (Faye) Patterson and Ronn (Sonya) Patterson, along with many nieces, nephews and friends . Mark was preceded in death by his parents. According to his wishes cremation has taken place. A private celebration of Mark’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of cards or visits memorials are suggested to the Ionia County Animal Shelter. Online condolences can be left at www. koopsfc.com Joshua Kent Dewey HASTINGS, MI - Joshua Kent Dewey, age 32, of Hastings, passed away unexpectedly on December 27,2019. Josh was bom in Hastings on September 21, 1987. From the time Josh was a young child, he was always very inquisitive, he would disassemble every new toy piece by piece just to figure out how it worked and new ways that he could make it better. He was a “young” old soul. He enjoyed old music, old cars, talking with the older generation because he knew that is where real world knowledge came from. Josh had a wealth of knowledge for someone his age, anything electrical, mechanical, or mathematical Josh could figure out. Josh had a wickedly sharp sense of humor that we all loved. He was quick-witted, kindhearted and generous - he himself would go without to make sure someone he cared about did not. Josh was currently employed with Sanlnocencio Logging as an electrician and material handler, he worked hard and enjoyed the guys he was working with, Josh also worked regularly in the family business and had for many years, previous employers were Bradford White and Brian’s Tire & Service as an ASE certified automotive repair technician. Josh’s son Nolan was the light of his life, he was amazed by his little “Mini Me” daily. He loved his little buddy with his whole heart. Josh was preceded in death by his grandfather, Peter Dewey; grandfather, Harley Tinkler and his uncle, Harley Tinkler, Jr. Josh is survived by his son, Nolan; his father, Richard Dewey; his mother, Lisa Whiteman and stepfather, Brian Whiteman; his sister, Brianne Whiteman; his longtime girlfriend, Nicole Orton; grandmothers, Phyllis Dewey and Lynda Tinkler; step-grandparents, Glenn and Bonnie Whiteman, aunts and uncles, Mark (Jill) Dewey, Deb (Terry) Mathews, Denise Balk, Kevin (Brinda) Dewey, Darla (Bob) Lucas, Roger Dewey, and Wayne Tinkler Sr., many close cousins and very dear friends. Josh was very loved, and he has taken a large part of our hearts with him. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 2, 2020 at Girrbach Funeral Home, 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 with a visitation at noon. Family gathering hour at 11 a.m. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 2, 2020 — Page Z - J\lewbom babies Asher Zoet, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on December 4, 2019 to Tara Zoet and Ryan Zoet of Alto. Grant Lowell Anglemyer, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on December 11, 2019 to Kaela Oostveen and Patrick Anglemyer of Middleville. Alec Jose Rodiguez, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on December 11, 2019 to Abbygail Maddyson Sines and Austin Scott Rodriguez of Portland. 1 AT Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to MCL 600.3212, that the following will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public auction at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1 00 PM, on January 30, 2020: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Tereso m Boulter and Charles Boulter, wife and husband Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): New Residential Mortgage, LLC Date of Mortgage: September 15, 2005 Date of Mortgage Recording: September 26, 2005 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $82,389.31 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Beginning at a point on the North and South 1/4 line of Section 35, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, distant South 330 feet from the center 1/4 post of said Section 35, thence East 660 feet parallel with the East and West line of said Section 35, thence South 410 feet, thence West 660 feet to the North and South 1/4 line of said Section, thence North 410 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the 134892 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to MCL 600.3212, that the following will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public auction at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 23, 2020: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Andrew Richardson, a single man Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC Date of Mortgage: January 28, 2015 Date of Mortgage Recording: February 10, 2015 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $51,846.31 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Commencing on the North section line of Section 1, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, at the intersection of Sager Road and Cedar Creek Road for the place of beginning; thence West on said Section line 500 feet; thence South 308 feet; thence East 500 feet to the Centerline of Cedar Creek Road; thence Northerly along the Centerline of Cedar Creek Road 308 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: December 26, 2019 Trott Law, P.C. 1404966 (12-26)(01-16) Corgynn Yvonne Horn, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on December 18, 2019 to Collette Horn and Dan Hom of Hastings. Silas Andrews, bom at Spectrum health Pennock on December 19, 2019 to Tylynn Andrews of Hastings. 1 xVI JI 1 SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING December 11, 2019 - 7:00 p.m. Regular meeting called to order and Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Spencer, Bellmore, James, Watson, Hawthorne, Greenfield Absent: Waiters Approved the Agenda Approved the Consent Agenda with one correction Monthly Treasurer’s Report Monthly Clerk’s Voucher/Payroll Report Approved Resolution #2019-252 - Township 2020 Budget Approved Resolution #2019-253 - Township Board Compensation for 2020 Approved Resolution #2019-254 - Township Board Meeting Dates & Holiday Schedule Accepted First Reading of Ordinance #2019-174 - Proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance pertaining to GAAMPS Appointed the Township Attorney, Engineer and Auditor of Record for 2020 Adjournment 8:20 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Attested to by, Larry Watson, Supervisor 134864 redemption period. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: January 2, 2020 Trott Law, P.C. 1405516 (01-02)(01-23) Addison Kendall-Rae Southwell, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on December 15, 2019 to Ashley Southwell. 134484 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 19-28393-DE Estate of Richard Earl Harroun III. Date of birth: 04/23/1954. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Rich­ ard Earl Harroun III, died 08/14/2018. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Norma Christine Harroun, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 4300 Harmony Drive, Shelbyville, Mi 49344 and the personal representative within 4 months after the publication of this notice. David H. Tripp (P29290) 202 S. Broadway Hastings, Ml 49058 269-948-2900 Norma Christine Harroun 4300 Harmony Drive Shelbyville, Ml 49344 616-262-4492 133911 . Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to MCL 600.3212, that the following will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public auction at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 16, 2020: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Adam R. Broxholm, a married man Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/ or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): AmeriFirst Financial Corporation Date of Mortgage: September 16, 2014 Date of Mortgage Recording: September 19, 2014 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $130,526.75 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Lots 40 and 41, Crystal Lake Estates Plat, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5, Page 73 of Plats, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during’ the redemption period. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: December 19, 2019 Trott Law, P.C. 1404681 (12-19)(01-09) 134302 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to MCL 600.3212, that the following will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public auction at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 23, 2020: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Eric Morgan, a married man Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Caliber Home Loans, Inc. Date of Mortgage: December 26, 2017 . Date of Mortgage Recording: January 4, 2018 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $280,056.35 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Commencing at a point on the South line of Section 33, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, distant South 89 degrees 34 minutes 35 seconds East 1992.93 feet from the Southwest corner of said Section; thence North 2 degrees 05 minutes 45 seconds East 1000.50 feet; thence South 89 degrees 51 minutes 45 seconds East 664.67 feet to the North and South 1/4 line of said Section 33; thence South 2 degrees 06 minutes 40 seconds West, along said North and South 1/4 line 1003.78 feet to the South 1/4 post of said Section; thence North 89 degrees 34 minutes 45 seconds West along said South Section line 664.31 feet to the place of beginning. Subject to an easement over the southerly 33 feet thereof for public highway purposes. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: December 26, 2019 Trott Law, P.C. 1405149 (12-26)(01-16) 134552 Voice students presenting recital Students from the music studio of Robert C. Oster will present a voice recital Thursday, Jan. 2, at Grace Lutheran Church in Hastings, beginning at 7 p.m. Both adult and high school singers will perform. Mary Kuhlman, a retired Spanish teacher and Hastings resident, will sing two Italian art songs, one German art song, and the Michel Legrand classic, “What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life?” Cindy Thelen, a retired elementary teacher who calls Lake Odessa home, will sing both Italian and German art songs, a contemporary setting of “Orpheus With His Lute” by William Schuman, and a song from Harold Arlen’s “House of Flowers.” Hastings High School senior Karsyn Daniels will perform two English art songs and the Italian da capo aria, “Bel Piacere” by Handel. Sierra Cappon, senior at Lakewood High School, will sing Max Reger’s “Waldeinsamkeit” in German and “Love Has Eyes” by Bishop. Lakewood sophomore Annabelle Cappon will perform the English folk song “Who’ll Buy My Lavender,” and the German art song “Die Lotusblume,” by Robert Schumann. Jamin Thompson, a junior at Caledonia High School, will sing the German art song “Ich Grolle Nicht” by Robert Schumann, “Rollin’ Down to Rio,” and from the Broadway musical, “Carousel,” “You’ll Never Walk Alone.” SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Leadership group to begin new session Leadership Barry County is accepting applications for the 2020 class. The new ses­ sion will begin Jan. 31 with a retreat at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute and end April 16. The nine-session program covers topics such as communication, local government, change management and diversity, as well as a tour of Barry County and a visit to the state capitol. The cost is $395 and includes all sessions, transportation, overnight accommodations and meals. Leadership Barry County is an opportunity to learn about the county to enhance leader­ ship skills for individual growth, organiza­ tional improvement and increased community effectiveness while networking with others in the community. Founded in 1990, Leadership Barry County is one of the state’s longest-running rural leadership endeavors. The program is offered annually to individuals who live or work in Barry County seeking to become better devel­ oped and networked leaders. Registration and additional information can be found at the website leadershipbarrycounty.org. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Financial FOCUS Provided by the Barry County offices ofEdward Jones Member SIPC Brandon Wilkins Kevin Beck, AAMS® 307 E. Green St., Ste. 1 400 W. State St., Suite B Hastings, Ml 49058 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-4702 (269) 948-2003 Is market timing a smart investment strategy? will stay on top the next year, or even perform particularly well. Conversely, your own underperformers of today could be next year’s leaders. • Waiting for today’s risk or uncertainty to disappear before investing - Investing always involves risk and un­ certainty. Instead of waiting for the perfect time to invest, you’re better off building a portfolio based on your goals, risk tolerance and time hori­ zon. All these mistakes are ex­ amples of a risky investment strategy: trying to “time” the market. If you try to be a mar­ ket timer, not only will you end up questioning your buy/ sell decisions, but you also might lose sight of why you bought certain investments in the first place. Specifically, you might own stocks or mu­ tual funds because they are appropriate for your portfolio and your risk tolerance, and they can help you make prog­ ress toward your long-term financial goals. And these attributes don’t automatical­ ly disappear when the value of these stocks or funds has dropped, so you could end up selling investments that could still be doing you some good many years into the future. While trying to time the You may have heard that timing is everything. And in many walks of life, that may be true - but not necessarily when it comes to investing. To understand why this is so, let’s look at three common mistakes investors make: • Selling investments and moving to cash when stocks are predicted to drop - If you follow the financial news on cable TV or the internet, you’re eventually bound to discover some “experts” who are predicting imminent, huge drops in the stock mar­ ket. And on rare occasions, they may be right - but often they’re not. And if you were to sell some of your stocks or stock-based investments based on a prediction and move the money to cash or a cash equivalent, you could miss out on possible future growth opportunities if the predictor was wrong. And the investments you sold still could have played a valuable part in your portfolio balance. • Selling underperforming assets in favor of strong per­ formers — As an investor, it can be tempting to unload an investment for one of those “hot” ones you read about that may have topped one list or another. Yet there’s no guarantee that investment x-* A T? ... . ‘' * '' market is a difficult invest­ ment strategy even for the professionals, it doesn’t mean you can never take advantage of falling prices. In fact, you can use periodic dips in the market to buy quality assets at more attractive prices. Sup­ pose, for example, that you invested the same amount of money every month into the same investments. One month, your money could buy more shares when the price of the investment is down meaning you’re automatical­ ly a savvy enough investor to take advantage of price drops. While your money will buy fewer shares when the price of the investment is up, your overall investment holdings will benefit from the increase in price. Buying low and selling high sounds like a thrilling way to invest. But in the long run, you’re better off by following a consistent invest­ ment strategy and taking a long-term perspective. It’s time in the market, rather than timing the market, that helps keep portfolio returns mov­ ing in the right direction over time. This article was written by Edward Jonesfor use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. ‘ 7 ' ; ; ; * * Traditional and Cremation Services v* Pre-Planning Services * Large Paridng Lot - Handicap Accessible “ • Serving All Faiths 9 Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted '328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 269-945-3252 • www.girrbaclifuneralhome. Owner/Manager Family Owned and Operated owXr’ZJX'itiis Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 50 years J 134695 Position Opening = ■ The Barry County Equalization Department is now accepting applications for a part-time Property Records Clerk. The Clerk will assist the department with Entering sales data entry and clerical duties. Position requirements include at least a high school diploma, one year of experience with data processing and some knowledge of property descriptions and the property tax system, and must be an accurate typist with high typing proficiency. The base pay rate is $13.95. j ! I I Please send a cover letter, resume and completed job application form to: Tim Vandermark, Director, Barry County Equalization, 220 West State Street Hastings, Ml 49058. An application and job description is available at www.barrycounty.org, or by contacting Tim Vandermark, 269-945-1288, tvandermark@barrycounty.org I ' Deadline for applications: January 10th by 5 p.m. ( 134696 PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE To comply with the Michigan Open Meetings Act (MCL 15.265) • Friday, Jan. 3 - no story time Monday, Jan. 6 - Quilting Passions, 10 a.m.-l p.m.; board of directors meeting, 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 7 - toddler time, 10:30-11 a.m.; mahjong club, 5:30; chess club, 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8 - January Series: Leadership Lessons Learned from Coaching, 12:30-1:30 p.m.; Michigan Historical Society’s History Hounds: Remember When You Were a Kid? A Fay go Story, 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9 - Baby Cafe,10 a.m.noon; January Series: The Fool and the Heretic, 12:30-1:30 p.m.; Movie Memories and Milestones watches 1950 film starring Donald O’Connor, Patricia Medina and Zasu Pitts, 5 p.m. More information about these and other events is available by calling the library, 269-945-4263. : ' I ! ■ Orangeville Township Board 7350 Lindsey Rd., Plainwell, Ml 49080 Phone: 269 664-4522 Fax: 269 664-3411 Email: mrisnerogvclk@mei.net www.orangevilletownship.org I The Orangeville Township Board will hold a public meeting with the Barry County Road Commission Date: Tuesday, January 7, 2020 Time: 6 pm Location: 7350 Lindsey Rd., Plainwell, Ml 49080 Persons with special needs, as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act, should contact the Clerk Mel Risner. This notice is given as required by law (MCL 168.498(3). : ' �Page 8 — Thursday, January 2, 2020 — The Hastings Banner As surging Great Lakes threaten Michigan, homeowners beg Canada for help More than 100 feet of beach has vanished from the property of Schuyler Suydam in the past few years, and Lake Michigan is threatening to engulf boats, docks and other equipment. (Photo provided by Bridge Magazine.) : > Saugatuck Township resident Don Olendorf is among the property owners who are calling on Ontario to stop hydropower dams that dump millions of gallons of water into the Great Lakes basin. He’s facing a $150,000 bill to rebuild a seawall on the property his family has owned since the 1950s. (Photo provided by Bridge Magazine.) Bridge Magazine Water always wins, and Lake Michigan is ravaging Schuyler Suydam’s home of more than 60 years. Surging waters have erased his beach, swallowing more than 100 feet in six years. December winds pushed waves past a giant * seawall built to protect his home, lapping at a catamaran that once took 20 minutes to haul to the lake. This year, nearby parks and roads in this resort town in West Michigan have closed because of nearly record-high waters in Lake Michigan, and the city’s fire department has repeatedly pumped water from a downtown condominium complex parking lot to prevent tenants from being subsumed. . “The prevailing feeling is we are all a ’ bunch of rich people if we live on the water, and we should all know better,” said Suydam, a retired commercial pilot who inherited his ’ impressive home on a bluff. “But the fact is, there are people who benefit from high waters j and could help.” He’s referring to Ontario. More than 800 * miles to the north, the province owns dams ■ that release 42,000 gallons of water a second ; irtto Lake Superior. Known as the Long Lac * and Ogoki diversions, the dams are part of Ontario’s vast hydropower system and, every I day, dump the equivalent of two medium-size J riyers such as the Kalamazoo and Muskegon * rivers into the Great Lakes. - As historically high waters threaten proper­ ty owners and municipalities along Michigan’s * S|288 miles of shoreline, a movement is brew­ * ing to pressure Ontario to temporarily halt the si dams until the lakes recede. * ~The dams are the only diversions of water into the Great Lakes - and they’re at the cen­ ter of emerging, emotional debate about how human intervention creates winners and losers as waters rise and fall, as they have wildly in recent years. , s The diversions have raised water levels of Lakes Huron and Michigan 4.3 inches since their construction in the 1940s. That’s a pit­ tance since the lakes are now 3 feet above long-term averages. But with lakes forecast npxt month to be 11 inches higher than in January 2019, property owners say every bit helps. “God affects the lakes in a matter of feet. Humans affect them in inches, but when you are dealing with these extremes, inches make a big difference,” said Roger Gauthier, a retired hydrologist for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Gauthier lives in Cheboygan in a house whose bluff has eroded by 30 feet in recent years. He leads a property owners group, Restore Our Water International. In November, the group joined homeowners along Ontario’s Sorgian Bay in a petition to the International nt Commission (IJC), a binational group that resolves boundary water disputes, to take steps to declare a crisis and initiate steps to pause the diversions. A third property owner group also has made the same request. Lyndsay Miller, spokeswoman for Ontario Power Generation, which operates the dams, Wrote in an email that the discharges “are a relatively small contributor to the water level oti the Great Lakes. (Halting the dams would lower the lakes 2-3 inches over two years, atcording to an International Joint Qommission report.) “The impact of ceasing the diversion would not likely even be noticed by a property owner,” Miller wrote. “Water management is a complex disci­ pline. There are often difficult decisions with competing interests which need to be consid­ ered and balanced. In a critical year [of high waters] the objective is often to do the most good with the options available but that does not mean everyone will be satisfied.” ‘Pound your fist’ Michigan property owners also are lobby­ ing Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and other state and federal lawmakers to ratchet up public pressure on Ontario to halt the diversions. “I love Gretchen Whitmer. All we’re asking from her is to pound her fist on a few times on the table and write a letter to Ontario,” said Don Olendorf, a semi-retired schools lobbyist who lives in Saugatuck Township off Lake Michigan. Asked about the diversions, Whitmer’s staff released a statement saying “we are monitoring water levels throughout the Great Lakes in conjunction with our counterparts at the International Joint Commission.” “Gov. Whitmer will continue to encourage communication and cooperation within the region on issues impacting the Great Lakes Basin to make sure that Michigan’s voice is heard,” her deputy press secretary, Bobby Leddy, wrote in an email. Whitmer is also weighing a request from state lawmakers for an emergency declaration to release funds for shoreline protections along Lake Michigan communities. That would give homeowners access to state resources to address erosion and clear the way for a federal emergency declaration to provide access to loans and tax relief for repairs that typically aren’t covered by insur­ ance. Michigan has instituted other steps, includ­ ing expediting permits for seawall repair, said Nick Assendelft, a spokesman for the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy. Since Oct. 1, the state has issued 316 permits; 70 percent of which were processed within three days, rather than the typical two months, he said. The state also is working with communities to map threats to sewers, power lines, bridges and other infrastructure if water continues to rise, Assendelft said. Likewise, the U.S .Army Corps of Engineers since May has advised leaders of hard-hit counties Allegan, Bay, Macomb, Monroe, Muskegon, Ottawa, St. Clair and Wayne, as well as the City of Detroit, said Krystle Walker, a Detroit-based emergency manage­ ment specialist for the agency. ‘Getting hammered’ Homeowners need more, said Olendorf, who is on the board of the 200-member Lake Michigan Shore Association property group. “We are getting hammered pretty good,” he said. “Those of us who have the resources to protect ourselves can, but those who don’t are screwed.” Olendorf faces a $150,000 bill to build up his seawall along his 90 feet of beach front­ age. He can afford it, living on a stately road where homes sell for $1.5 million to $2 mil­ lion. Nearby homes are owned by industrial­ ists and lawyers investing more than $1 mil­ lion in seawall repairs. Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins has a home a few NOTICE The Barry County Board of Commissioners is seeking applications from volunteers to serve on the following Boards/Commissions: Commission on Aging: 4 positions Conservation Easement: 1 position. Agricultural Interest; 1 township official or designee Applications may be obtained at the County Administration Office, 3rd floor of the Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings; or www.barrycounty.org under the tab: How do I apply for: A position on an Advisory Board or Commission and click on apply; and must be returned no later than 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 7, 2020. Contact 269-945-1284 for more information. miles up the road. But water is an equal-opportunity destroy­ er, and Olendorf said the narrative of the foolishly wealthy building dream homes too close to the lakes ignores the extraordinary weather conditions of recent years. After record high waters in the 1980s, most communities passed ordinances requiring new homes to be built farther from the lakes, some 200 feet. It turns out that wasn’t enough, now that waters are at or approaching record highs after nearly 20 years of low waters. ifunicipalities are reeling from losses because of damaged boat ramps, roads and bridges, said Dean Kapenga, an Allegan County commissioner who represents Saugatuck Township. The damage extends statewide. In Detroit, some homeowners along the Detroit River are still cleaning up from July floods. In the Upper Peninsula, roads to the Porcupine Mountains are threatened by erosion. Since last fall, 13 homeowners along Lake Michigan have applied to the state to move houses away from eroding shorelines Estate records show. “I was born and raised here. I ain’t rich,” said Ric Curtis of Ganges Township near Saugatuck, who isM^ttie board of the Great Lakes Coalition for Shoreline Preservation property group. The group, which represents more than 1,000 homeowners, last month sent a separate letter to the IJC to asking to halt the diversion of water into the Great Lakes. Human intervention It’s the latest salvo in a century-long debate over the human impact on water levels that began in 1900, when Chicago reversed the direction of the Chicago River to pull water out of Lake Michigan. The Canadian dams went up 40 years later to produce energy during World War II. Now, they’re part of a network of dams and 66 hydro stations that provides 25 percent of the power to Ontario, a province of 14.5 million residents. The Chicago diversions - which lower lakes by 2.4 inches - were blamed when waters were historically low during the past 20 years. Now that waters are high, it’s tempt­ ing to seek relief by stopping the Canadian diversions, but that won’t help most property owners, said Peter Annin, a professor at Northland College in Ashland, Wisconsin. “When humans build infrastructure by a lake, they want it to be the same, but on the Great Lakes, that’s the bargain you’re in for: Water levels vary,” said Annin, the author of the book “The Great Lakes Water Wars.” “We’re talking about inches here. What would really bring relief to property owners in Michigan and Wisconsin is feet.” Another controversial diversion, for the Foxconn Technology Group in Wisconsin, takes as much as 7 million gallons per day out of Lake Michigan. The Ontario diversions, in contrast, put 3.6 billion more gallons per day into lakes, which overall contain 6 quadrillion gallons (which is enough to cover the United States under 9 feet of water). Miller, of the Ontario Power Generation, said she couldn’t calculate how much the Long Lac and Ogoki diversions contribute to the province’s overall power generation. “The Long Lac and Ogoki diversions have been in place for decades. The local environ­ ment and economies have evolved over more than 50 years with this particular flow regime in mind,” she wrote in an email. Among other things, an IJC report warned that ceasing the dams would cause massive flooding in Albany River basin lands in north­ ern Ontario that are populated by indigenous people. The Great Lakes shipping industry, which creates some $60 billion in annual economic activity, also generally prefers higher waters since they allow freighters to carry more. “We recommend the governments come to grips with the impacts of [halting] these diver­ sions before taking any action,” Jeff Kart, a consultant for the joint commission, said. The binational group, per an agreement known as Plan 2012, tries to balance the mean levels of the Great Lakes but only has nomi­ nal power. It can advise, write reports and issue recommendations, but the ultimate deci- This map, produced by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, shows the flow of water in the Great Lakes basin. North of Lake Superior, Lake Nipigon and the Ogoki River are dammed to flow more water into the system, which is eventually turned into hydro­ power at Niagara Falls. sion on halting dams would rest with Ontario. By design, the IJC moves slowly and takes years to study issues. By then, the Great Lakes probably would have already receded, Annin said. Or maybe not. Since record-keeping began in 1860, water levels have always fluctuated over five- to 10-year periods, depehHitfg’off pKcipiiatioh, ice and other factors. With climate change, though, unpredictability could now be the rule, said Gauthier, the retired hydrologist. From 2000 to 2013, Lakes Michigan and Huron were in a record drought, then sprung back to extreme highs by 2017. Until recent years, scientists believed cli­ mate change would lower the lakes as rising temperatures evaporated waters. Now, some believe volatility is the new normal. By mid-century, most scientists believe rising temperatures will “take a toll on the lakes” and lead to a longer period of low lev­ els, said Dana Infante, a hydrology professor at Michigan State University. Despite the uncertainties, governments should do what they can now, Gauthier said. “If you cause the lakes to be artificially high,” he said, “you have an obligation to fix it.” Snow globe science Dr. Universe: How do you make a snow globe? Alexa, 10, Salem, Mo. Dear Alexa, If you have a long winter break and are looking for a great way to spend the after­ noon, you might just want to make your own snow globe. There are a few different ways to build a snow globe, but the first thing you’ll need is the perfect container. To make a small snow globe, you might use something like an empty baby food jar. Or maybe if you want to make a bigger snow globe, you could choose an empty spaghetti sauce jar. An empty water bottle also could work well for a snow globe. This is a great project to do if you have a few old items you want to make into something new. Once you have your perfect container, you’ll want to fill it up with certain kinds of liquids. My friend Lindsay Lightner, a Ph.D. stu­ dent at Washington State University, teaches people how to become science teachers and knows lots of great science activities to try. Her students make lava lamps to learn about something called viscosity. A lava lamp actu­ ally isn’t much different from a snow globe when it comes to viscosity. Viscosity is a property, or characteristic, of liquids. We often use the word viscosity to describe how fast or slowly a liquid flows. If you stuck a spoon into a jar of peanut butter, the peanut butter probably would stick to the spoon. It’s really thick and has a high viscos­ ity — it behaves almost like a solid. But if we heated some peanut butter in the microwave, it would move around much more freely and have a thinner consistency. It now has a much lower viscosity. For your snow globe, you will want to figure out how viscous to make your liquid. You can exper­ iment first. Fill up one jar with water. Then fill anoth­ er jar with water and a teaspoon of some­ thing called glycerin. Glycerin is what we sometimes use to make bubbles, and it can make water more viscous. It’s easy to find in many stores. You might even make a third jar with a tablespoon of glycerin. You can adjust the amount, as needed. Finally, you can add your “snow.” There are all kinds of different things you can use for snow. You might make your snow out of aluminum foil, using a hole punch to create tiny flakes that will reflect the light. If you want to re-use a material, Lightner suggested using eggshells to make the snow. Wash out the eggshells and then crush them up with a rolling pin into snowflake-sized pieces. No matter what solid object you decide to use, make sure it doesn’t dissolve in liquid. Lightner said little toys, like old Lego people, can be added to decorate the inside of your snow globe. Finally, you’ll want to put the lids on your containers tightly and give them a shake. Which of your snow globes has snow that falls the slowest or fastest? Tell us about what you created sometime at Dr.Universe® wsu.edu. Dr. Universe Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University’s resident scientist and writer at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu or visit her web­ site, askdruniverse.com. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 2, 2020 — Page 9 Blue Zones ‘Big Know’ drops Jan 1 Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Blue Zones activation in Barry County is underway, and its first big initiative came with the start of the new year. Based on the Blue Zones’ Power 9 - a collection of healthy living standards originating from the five places the Blue Zones idea was formed - the 4Big Know’ is an online video 'tutorial led by Blue Zones founder Dan Buettner. The tutorial can be viewed on the Barry County Blue Zones activation website. The “Big Know” will be one of the first steps of the Barry County Blue Zones activation program. Allison Troyer Wiswell is the Barry County activate director, which means she heads up the Barry County Blue Zones project in its early goings. “We work in this model of discover, develop, design and deploy,” Wiswell said. 44We’re currently in the discovery phase. The experts are coming in to take tours, to understand what we have in our county currently. They’re here to see what our strengths are and what our areas of improvement are.” Buettner was a National Geographic researcher who found five different places scattered around the world where people were living longer and healthier lives. Many people were over the age of 100 and remaining in good health. The locations were the Barbagia region of Sardinia; Ikaria, Greece; the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica; Loma Linda, Calif.; and Okinawa, Japan. “They have a high quality of life even their hundreds,” Wiswell said. “Some may be out doing manual labor well into their hundreds; one guy was still doing heart surgery. However, all the places are very culturally different.” But through of the cultural differences, Buettner was able to find nine similarities the communities shared, likenesses that he believed led to their longer and healthier lives. The people in those five areas all tend to do the following nine things: Move naturally, such as walking to the store, gardening or manual labor. Have a sense of purpose br something that, when getting up in the morning, gives meaning to life. Downshift, regularly taking time to relax by spending time with family or reading a book Follow an 80 percent rule when eating only eating until 80 percent full and not eating excess. Have a “plant slant” regarding food. While not are all vegetarians, they tend to eat more fruits and vegetables and less meat. Drink wine. Buettner found that those who drink a glass or two of wine a day tend to be healthier than, and outlive, those who do not. Belong. Those who attend faith-based services four times per month add four to 14 years of life expectancy. Put loved ones first. Those who put their loved ones first tend to be healthier. Have shared interest or supportive networks. “A Blue Zone is reengineering an environment in semi-permanent and permanent ways so that the environment supports us to make healthy choices,” Wiswell said. “It’s very different from just following a diet and exercise program to lose 30 pounds. It’s a systems-wide approach.” All stemming from the original five locations, Blue Zones projects have now spread across 50 communities in 12 states and one community in Canada. With its recent activation, Barry County will become the first community in Michigan to have a Blue Zones initiative. “We want to be a trailblazer,” Wiswell said. “It puts you on the map.” “I like that it’s a community initiative in that it isn’t coming from just one entity. It’s something for everyone. You don’t have to qualify to be a part of it.” Although Blue Zones is fairly recent here, the ideas behind the initiative have been present in the community for more than 10 years. When the Blue Zones project began in 2008, Wiswell was really interested in what they were doing she said. She has spent most of her career at Flex Fab and Hastings Fiberglass. 44At work sites, I would teach about the Power 9 and the individual pieces people can attach too,” she said. “At the end of my presentations, I would tell people that they were actually going into communities and doing it. When I said that, I had no idea that Barry County would actually be chosen to be a Blue Zone.” In 2010, a community health needs assessment was done through Pennock Hospital. Through that, it was found that obesity was having a significant effect in the county. From that study, the B. Healthy Coalition was formed in 2012. Many of the ideas and goals of B. Healthy sounded like the Blue Zones initiative, she said. She talked to Bonnie Gettys, Barry Community Foundation president/CEO, and got a group of people together to discuss the idea. The B. Healthy coalition paid to have Tony Buettner, Dan’s brother, visit Barry County and speak about Blue Zones and its impact. “After that we entered into a community development agreement and formed a planning committee to work with the Blue Zones team to create a three-day site visit plan,” Wiswell said. The visit included community presentations, focus groups, one-on-one meetings with community leaders and more. The Blue Zones team produced a report in July of 2018 that said that Barry County shows great leadership, works together well, and aligns with the Blue Zones mission. The local project went full steam ahead. Wiswell spent the next year fundraising for the project. The $1.4 million raised was enough for Barry County to enter the activation portion of the process. “Activate is a three-year initiative toward getting the community into a full Blue Zones project,” she said. A full project would have four full-time staff members. For the time being, Wiswell is the only full-time staff member. But money raised for the activate portion will go directly toward the full project. “This is a community initiative; Blue Zones is not coming in and doing something to us,” she said. “We have to decide what we want to do. But people need to be thinking of 4we’ not ‘me.’” “We’re going to continue to fundraise and look for additional sponsors,” she said. “My primary focus is getting the foundation set for the project. I’m working hard to develop a network of people who will go to local government meetings each month to give updates on the Blue Zones project in Barry County.” High speed chase reaches 105 mph An officer was driving on Adams Road east of Bender Road in Thomapple Township at 9:19 p.m. Dec. 23, when a vehicle traveling in the opposite direction passed the officer at a high rate of speed. The officer activated his emergency lights and chased after the vehicle, which was traveling at speeds up to 105 mph. When the officer caught up to the vehicle, the driver, 18, of Middleville, pulled over. The driver said he tried to get away because he did not want a speeding ticket, but “admitted it was a poor choice.” The officer also found a bag of marijuana in the center console, and cited the driver for minor in pos­ session of marijuana and fleeing and eluding. Meth involved in domestic violence A 35-year-old Hastings woman told police that her boyfriend had hit her multiple times while they were in his vehicle at 8:42 a.m. Dec. 24. The woman said she and her boyfriend, 58, of Hastings, had been doing meth and got into an argument in his truck. When they arrived at their home in the 300 block of Willitts Road in Carlton Township, the woman went to the neighbors and called the police. The man fled the scene before officers arrived. Information was forwarded to the prosecuting attorney. Two assailants break into man’s house, hit him with truck A 28-year-old man said he answered a knock at the door when two men broke in and assaulted him at 1:14 p.m. Dec. 28, in the 15000 block of Doster Road. The man said, when he got to the door it was kicked open, and two men, one 34, of Kalamazoo, and one 32, of Otsego, pushed him over his couch and punched him. The man said the assailants had come there to get a woman who was at his house; her age was not given. He said she had two black eyes from a self-inflicted injury, but the assailants believed he was the cause of her injuries and they wanted her to leave with them. The man said he grabbed a knife and the assailants got back in their truck. When he followed them outside, they drove their truck into him. The assailants could not be located. Information was forwarded to the prosecuting attorney. - Wine and credit card stolen from church A Zion Lutheran Church employee called police at 8:42 a.m. Dec. 19 to report a break-in at the church in Woodland. Police found the main doors had been pried open, and doors and cupboards throughout the church were open. The only items believed to have been stolen were a credit card and three bottles of wine. The credit card was deactivated before any transactions were made. The case is inactive without any suspects. $1,700 in tools stolen from garage A 64-year-old man called police at 8:24 a.m. Dec. 23 to report a break-in at his bam in the 5000 block of Saddlebag Lake Road in Woodland Township. The lock had been cut and $1,700 in tools, including a chainsaw, grinders, irrigation pump and more had been stolen. The case is inactive pending further information. Crack cocaine found in jail cell National campaign encourages safe, sober driving Christmas and New Year’s Day are fun, busy times to celebrate with family and friends. The holiday season also is one of the deadliest times of year for drunk-and druggeddriving fatalities. This is why law enforcement officers, in partnership with the Office of Highway Safety Planning, are encouraging safe, sober driving this holiday season. The national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement campaign runs from Dec. CITY OF HASTINGS 18 to Jan. 1, 2020. Increased enforcement, along with statewide messages about the dangers of impaired driving, aim to drastically reduce traffic crashes, fatalities and injuries on the roadways. “The holidays should be an enjoyable time to spend with loved ones,” Michael L. Prince, OHSP director, said. “It’s important for people to drive sober this holiday season - and every day. If you’re impaired by any substance, you shouldn’t drive.” In addition, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed December as Impaired Driving Prevention Month in Michigan. In 2018, one person was killed every 50 minutes by a drunk driver on U.S. REQUEST FOR BIDS WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT IMPROVEMENTS The City of Hastings is soliciting bids for furnish­ ing labor, materials, equipment, and construction of improvements at the wastewater treatment plant. The project includes a new headworks build­ ing, site work, sludge pumps and associated valves and piping, new aeration blower, primary settling tank and gravity sludge thickener mechanism re­ placements, ultraviolet disinfection equipment replacement, pressurized effluent water system in­ stallation, aeration basin and clarifier handrail and walkway replacements, administration building addition, and SCADA system. Interested bidders may learn how to obtain the Contract Documents and Specifications at Hast­ ings City Hall. A Pre-bid Meeting is scheduled for 2:00pm on January 7, 2020 (Please note time change), at the Hastings City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. A site walk-through will be held following the meeting. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price and other factors considered. Sealed proposals will be received at Hastings City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 2:00 p.m., Local Time on January 22, 2020. Bids will be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package - “SEALED BID WASTE­ WATER TREATMENT MENTS”. PLANT IMPROVE­ Matt Gergen Director of Public Services 135051 roads. In Michigan, of.,th^9O5 fatal crashes in 2018, 31.7 percent involved alcohol. During last year’s Christmas holiday, 13 fatal crashes were reported, nine of them involving alcohol. Over the New Year’s holiday last year, there were nine fatal crashes, with one crash involving alcohol. Officers are on the lookout for motorists under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Impairment of any kind while driving is illegal. If a person chooses to drive while impaired, he or she can be arrested for a DUI and could face jail time. The Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign is supported with federal traffic safety funds provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and coordinated by the OHSP. SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Benefits to increase in 2020 Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Each year, we announce the annu­ al cost-of-living adjustment. By law, federal benefits increase when the cost of living rises, as measured by the Department of Labor’s Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers. Usually, there is an increase in the benefit amount people will receive each month, starting the following January. Nearly 69 million Americans will see a 1.6 percent increase in their Social Security benefits and SSI pay­ ments in 2020. Other changes that will happen in January 2020 reflect the increase in the national average wage index. For example, the maximum amount of earnings subject to Social Security payroll tax will increase to $137,700 from $132,900. The earnings limit for workers who are younger than “full” retirement age (age 66 for peo­ ple bom in 1943 through 1954) will increase to $18,240. (We deduct $1 from benefits for each $2 earned over $18,240.) The earnings limit for people turn­ ing 66 in 2020 will increase to $48,600. (We deduct $1 from bene­ fits for each $3 earned over $48,600 until the month the worker turns age 66.) In December 2019, we will post Social Security COLA notices online for retirement, survivors, and dis­ ability beneficiaries who have a My Social Security account. You will be able to view and save future COLA notices via the Message Center inside My Social Security. You may log in to or sign up for a My Social Security account today at socialsecurity.gov/myaccount to get more information about your new benefit amount. You can choose to receive an electronic notification by email, text, or both ways under “Message Center Preferences.” Our notification will let you know that a new message is waiting for you. We will not send any personal informa­ tion in the notification. The Message Center also allows you to go paper­ less by opting out of receiving agen­ cy notices by mail that you can get online, including annual cost-of-liv­ ing adjustments and the income-re­ lated monthly adjustment amount increases. The Message Center is a secure portal where you can. conve­ niently receive sensitive communi­ cations that we don’t send through email or text. More information about the 2020 COLA is available at socialsecurity, gov/cola. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her do Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. Corrections officers found 0.7 grams of crack cocaine in an oatmeal bar wrapper in a jail ‘ cell during a search at 3 p.m. Nov. 12. A 58-year-old Big Rapids inmate admitted it was his. He told police that he was supposed to deliver it when he had been arrested. Woman admits to drinking and smoking marijuana before driving Police received a tip about a vehicle weaving across the road and tailgating drivers near Middleville at 6:51 p.m. Dec. 29. An officer stopped the driver, a 32-year-old Freeport woman, who admitted to smoking marijuana that morning, but initially said she had not been drinking. Later she admitted to drinking two full Solo cups of Jack and Coke, and a bottle of whiskey was found in the driver’s door pocket. The woman refused to take a Breathalyzer, although she failed several field sobriety tests. When asked to pick a number between 17 and 19, she chose “five.” She was arrested. Corrections On Dec. 26, the “High Water Continues” story in The Banner contained two errors: The first was an incorrect word on Page 2 in a quote by lake resident John Hoek. The correct quote by Hoek is: Tm very confident that the decision to file this lawsuit was entered into with consid­ erable thought by the folks who have lost - or are about to lose - their homes.” Also, on Page 2 in that story the figure that was given as the amount paid for the Darrell Jones property was erroneous. The property was purchased for $105,000. Also, on Page 8, the date was omitted at the end of a caption accompanying the photo of Larry and Earlene Baum. The Baums were guests of honor at the Hastings Area School System’s open house on Monday, Oct. 23. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Business Services Business Services Automotive BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, power washing, home improvements. 269-320-3890. trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. 03 HONDA PILOT, leather, good condition inside, needs motor. Asking $1,500 OBO. 269-838-6590. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 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Photocopies not accepted. ■ | I Thur, Jan 9,3-9:30 pm Sat, Jan 11,10 am-9 pm | Fri, Jan 10, noon-9:30 pm Sun, Jan 12,11 am-5 pm GrandRapidsRVShow.com 1 �Page 10 — Thursday, January 2, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Newspaperman recounted a winter in the local wilderness Part III This is the third in a “Fresh Out of the Attic” Banner series reprinted from the mid19008 featuring recollections by Darius Burgess Cook. On the advice of his doctor, Cook (no relation to the Barry County newspapering farrtily of the same name) and able-bodied frontiersman James “Captain” Rhodes spent the winter of 1839-40 just west of the Barry County line. Cook was 24 at the time. He’d beep working at the Kalamazoo Gazette and was in failing health. So, his doctor sent him to the woods to heal. The forests were thick and teeming with wildlife, including packs of wolves that howled each night. Most neighbors were miles away. Dwellings were small, crude huts. The two men frequently encountered Native Americans and with them overcame misunderstandings, shared cultures and helped each other. Cook later settled in Niles, started a family, and began a newspaper business that would continue for three more generations. He’d kept a diary of that wilderness experience and nearly 50 years later, he decided to publish his book, Six Months Among Indians. (For unexplained reasons, he refers to himself in pronouns such as us, we, and our, rather than me, I or myself.) His story continues as Cook and Rhodes were ready to head out and check their trap lines, three miles in each direction along the Rabbit River west of Gun Lake: It was a clear, cold morning in December. Breakfast was over; the huge log fire was burning briskly as we sat smoking our pipes and discussing whether we would go to our distant traps or stay around our cabin. The owls during the night had disturbed us exceedingly. It seemed as if all in the forest Come see us for all your wedding needs. Shop your LOCAL printing company for customized... • • • • Thank you notes Save the date cards Wedding invitations Photos • Frames • Wedding favors • Posters PACKAGES $QQ starting at Check out all our Special Services: • Business Cards • Greeting Cards • Big Prints & Posters • Folding & Laminating • Custom Rubber Stamps • Plastic Binding and more! 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00 - 5:30 O — Glancing cautiously in every direction to get a shot at one, to our surprise, we saw a monstrous gray wolf, not three rods distant, hunting for rabbits. Directly in our front was a large log that we used for a trail through the thicket, and upon this the wolf placed his for paws and was smelling for something on the other side. He was a monster. The big ruffle on his throat told us he was an old settler. had gathered with the wolves to give us one grand serenade. They were attracted by the venison that hung upon poles outside. In fact, the owls had feasted upon it during the night, and the tracks of the wolves were numerous around the lodge. We finally resolved to make war upon the owls and for two hours only. Both [Rhodes and Cook] could imitate to perfection. We started out in opposite directions, and for some time, we could shoot them without calling, being very numerous. When the call began, they came from all directions. As fast as we could load and fire, they would fall. We were not over 80 rods [a quarter mile] apart, judging from the rifle reports, and we were striving to see who would bring in the greatest number. We met promptly on time. Rhodes having 22 to our 18. He could beat us in loading and firing. It was exceedingly cold, and we concluded to spend the day and pick off the thick matted feathers from the birds and make each a pillow for us, as yet our cases were only stuffed with fine hemlock boughs. There seemed to be over two bushels of [feathers], but on drying them a few days, there were not enough for two pillows;. Rut by mixing them with the boughs, they were all anyone could desire. At noon, our picking was finished and our appetites were appeased by our usual home dinner. Our dishes were washed according to our custom by turning them bottom side up. We had just shouldered our rifles to visit our wolf traps, when in came Pe-make-wan. He loosened his belt, giving us to understand he was very hungry. We had plenty of cooked venison and old roasted potatoes, and he cleaned it out in quick time and started with us for the traps. The snow was over a foot in depth. When we reached there, we found one wolf dancing on the end of a pole, caught by the fore paw. He was soon dispatched, the trap re-set, and our owls were left for bait. The wolf was left in a tree, and we proceeded to a few traps on the bank of the river, about 35 rods distant. Reaching the river, brush was heard to crack on the opposite side. “Ke-web-em,” exclaimed Pe-make-wan, that is, “You see.” In a moment, a deer leaped into the river almost opposite us and dashed up the river not more than 30 yards from us. “Hold, hold,” says Rhodes. “Don’t shoot the deer.” No sooner had he spoken than two immense timber wolves dashed into the stream in the same place and were quickly over. As they showed their heads above the bank, one of them fell by deadly aim by Rhodes’ rifle. The other received a bullet form our rifle, but made a leap for us. The second leap, his back broke in the center, the bullet cutting it half in two. The Indian discharged his riffle, cutting through ear, close into the head. With a broken back, he struggled desperately for us. A bullet in his head from our revolver put an end to him before a rifle could be loaded. These were soon skinned and their carcasses thrown in to the river. On reaching our cabin, near evening, we found our only near neighbor, Mr. Chambers, there with supper already, roast venison, etc., with delicious wheat bread, which Mrs. Chambers frequently furnished, and we four [enjoyed] a hearty meal and a pleasant evening. Mr. Chambers left for his home about 9 o’clock but returned for a torch to protect himself from the wolves. The writer went to the spring at early dawn and discovered near it a solitary wolf track, fresh, in a light snow that had fallen during the night. It was agreed we would pursue that track after breakfast, especially since it went the course we desired to go to the river, Rhodes to go to the traps below, the writer above and beyond Barnes’ mill. We had not followed [the prints more than] 30 rods when this single track branched into seven and on a run. We concluded we had started a pack of wolves and it was useless to pursue, but we soon discovered they had started a deer. Three went to the right, three to the left and one followed on the track of the deer. Hunters understood that a deer, when fl look back at the stories and columns on local In the - ' ' TURNING BflGK THE PAGES A winter in the wilderness was prescribed for D.B. Cook at age 24, his doctor saying the fresh air and exercise would save him. Though he lived in a crude white man’s lodge, Cook and his hunting companion frequently encountered Native Americans, gaining understanding and appreciation for each other. (S/x Months Among Indians) started, will leap off perhaps 20 rods and stop and look back. Rhodes took the. .tracks of those to the right, we to the left. He soon called for us. He stood where they had grabbed at their game and drawn blood, but by a wonderful leap over a fallen tree top, [the deer] had escaped, only to be caught by the three on the left, and nothing was left but blood and hair. In numerous instances, the same discoveries were made, which insured a hungry pack of wolves a feast, and they were far more destructive to deer than hunters. Reaching the river, it was agreed we should both be at the lodge at dusk. It was an established rule that the one who reached there first should fire a signal gun to be answered by the one in the forest. This was to be repeated every few minutes until 10 o’clock. A shot by one out after dark was a signal to depart for him with a torch. Thus, we parted in opposite directions. Our small traps, which had not been visited for three days, contained muskrat and mink, and ‘ere we had gone a mile, an otter, and we found it necessary to pause and take off the hides. This detained us so we could not go to the rounds and reach the lodge that evening, and were compelled to spend the night with a Mr. Hooker, residing near Barnes’ mill, who moved there from Gull Prairie, Kalamazoo County. Here, we were beyond the sound of the signal gun. We made our supper out of cold roasted potatoes and dried venison we had carried in our pockets. His was a log cabin with a stick chimney on the outside. A terrible windstorm accompanied with a light snow continued all night, and the thermometer must have been below zero, yet the snow melted and the roof leaked in various places. Our coffee in the morning was made of hemlock boughs and was excellent. Mr. Hooker was poor but hospitable and gave us the best he had: Well-cooked corn, coon and pancakes. Breakfast over, our journey up the river was not yet completed. The wind was blowing powerfully, but we pushed along steadily on our trail and came to a thicket of hazel bushes. Here, rabbits had been playing very thick, and we concluded we would have one for Mr. Hooker on our return. Glancing cautiously in every direction to get a shot at one, to our surprise, we saw a monstrous gray wolf, not three rods distant, hunting for rabbits. Directly in our front was a large log that we used for a trail through the thicket, and upon this the wolf placed his for paws and was smelling for something on the other side. He was a monster. The big ruffle on his throat told us he was an old settler. Placing our rifle by a large tree where we stood, we took deliberate aim back of his. The cap burst, but the rifle failed to go off. Quick as thought, the wolf came directly at us with wonderful ferocity. In a moment, we drew our huge hunting knife from our belt and as he came down by the tree, we made a desperate plunge at him, taking completely out of his back a piece of hide as large as the palm of the hand. The wolf made a square angle and swept through the hazel brush from us at the top of his speed, followed by a shot from our revolver. The tree hid us from his view, and he was frightened by the explosion of the cap, the wind blowing powerfully, he ran accidentally toward us. It was a trying moment. He was a powerful animal in battle, and it was a plunge for life. One closing of his jaws would have crushed a bone instantly, but with our knife, we felt quite sure of the victory. Retracing our steps to Mr. Hooker’s we found the water from the roof had dripped into our rifle during the night and wet the powder. Before completing our journey up the river, we began to think of our companion who expected us back, as agreed, and we hastened our speed homeward on our back track. Coming within sight of where we had skinned our game, we saw Rhodes examining closely for our rifle in the snow, or clothing, for there was plenty of blood, and a pack of wolves had evidently quarreled for the carcasses. We hailed him at a distance, and he threw his hunting cap high. It was a happy meeting. Our furs testified our excuse for not returning. ... Arriving at the lodge near sunset, we found everything had been stolen. Not a potato or a particle of anything eatable, except the venison on the poles, was left, and that made our supper. At early dawn, we took the trail and moved as rapidly as the deep snow would permit. We were armed with our rifles, our revolvers and our hunting knives. We tramped over four miles before we discovered the smoke of their wigwams and we paused to rest and form plans for a surprise. Rhodes was a short, thick-set young man, with long dark-brown hair, heavy whiskers all over his face, hazel eyes piercing from beneath shaggy brows. And dressed in his hunting garb and armed, he looked like a wild devil let loose in the forest. His tiger was up, for it was the second time we had been robbed. He could talk the language better than the writer, and he was chosen to do it. All arranged, we dashed in upon them, but were seen by many, who rushed to their wigwams. They knew our mission well and skulked from our view. Rhodes called for the chief among them, and he came out. He then demanded the surrender of the thieves. (It was a new band, one we had never seen and did not know of their arrival.) The chief was a young fierce buck, slender and seemed anxious to assist us, but evidently was not. He went with us from one wigwam to another, and we found a blanket and a piece of deer skin which we recognized. Rhodes seized the blanket and demanded the surrender of all they possessed and assured them he had a band who would march in upon them. He commanded one and another to stand up, and they promptly obeyed. The young chief, or the leader of the band, Continued next page �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 2, 2020 — Page 11 Kiwanis Club honors young citizens Teacher Alyssa Fein (from left) is pictured with Northeastern citizens of the month Tyler Frazer and Griffin Sulen and fellow teacher Rachelle Wezensky. (Photos provided) Students Jaylen Hamilton, (front, left) and Mason Tossava, pictured here with teachers Chris Andrews and Jill Smith are honored young citizens at Central Elementary. The Kiwanis Club of Hastings recently announced the young citizens of the month for October. Students in fifth through eighth grades are selected by teachers based on a variety of character traits and behavior. Students chosen as October’s citizens of the month include: Central Elementary - Jaylen Hamilton, daughter of Kyle Hamilton and Jessica Ridderhoff, and Mason Tossava, son of Aubree Lambert, pictured here with teacher Stacey Cook, is the October student of the month at Southeastern Elementary. Jennifer Robles and Chris Tossava. Northeastern - Tyler Frazer, son of Dan and Nicole Frazer, and Griffin Sulen, son of Jamie and Marv Sulen. Southeastern - Aubree Lambert, daughter of Aaron and Tera Lambert. Star School - Keagan Jiles, son of Fred and Laura Jiles, and Marlayna Youngs, daughter of Lydia Teopas and Cody Youngs. Hastings Middle School - Marissa Baird, Continued from previous page ordered all engaged in the robbery to come forth. They did so and there were seven. The measures in our game sacks of their feet told truly of four of them. They claimed we were not settlers, but intruders upon their hunting and trapping grounds, but they wanted no war; they would do anything to settle it. Rhodes, mellowing down, said he too, desired peace. He came in there to join them, to live with them. He loved the good Indian and would defend them. At least 30 Indians, women and children gathered around. The squaws brought out some of our ham and the otter, deer and wolf skins they had stolen. One of the turbulent ones, on seeing this, cried out, “Caw-in-ne-shin squaw!” meaning “you are very mean, squaw.” He was silenced by the young chief, but he could hardly restrain his rage. We took out a pencil and a memorandum book and asked his name with a view to take him to Allegan for punishment. Honored young citizens at Hastings Middle School are (from left) Vikasini Survi, Kennedy Lewis, Marissa Baird, Lauren Gee, Gage Holtrust and Mia Mya Santos. They are joined by Principal Beth Stevens. This immediately brought him to terms, and he gave his name as San-go-far. It was finally agreed that the party should return what they had left of the stolen goods and go to Yankee Springs and bring in more. Early next morning, four of them appeared on their ponies, loaded with furs of all varieties and deposited them on our bed. This was to show their sincerity, but it increased our cares ... since we suspected [someone] might skulk around and when we left, enter and take the furs and charge us with theft. We therefore cast lots to see who should remain in the lodge that day. It fell to “Captain” Rhodes, as we afterward called him, to remain and for us to go to the wolf traps. It was an exceedingly hard punishment for him to be thus confined, but he endured it, spending most of his time in preparing jerked venison. To be continued ... See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits daughter of Brian Baird and Jessica Kimmell; Lauren Gee, daughter of Brad and Julie Gee; Gage Holtrust, son of Rebecca and Billy Keagan Jiles and Marlayna Youngs, citizens of the month at Star School, are flanked by teachers Julie Carlson (left) and Amelia Noble. Holtrust; Kennedy Lewis, daughter of Scott and Nicole Lewis; Mia Mya Santos, daughter of Rosa Santos; and Vikasini Survi, daughter of Supriya and Sreenadh Survi. Will the Internet kill your free community paper? Did instant coffee kill coffee? New technologies change many things. But not everything. You may tweet, blog, surf, shop, or search online but you continue to read your free community newspaper. You just proved that. Readership of free community newspapers is now higher that paid daily papers and continues to grow. Rather than being replaced by “instant” media, your local free community newspaper has become an important part of our neighborhood. The reason, which sometimes is not heard because of all the noise about the Internet, is pretty obvious: your free community newspaper does what the Internet doesn’t. We promote connections at a local level. Free papers join readers and advertisers in ways digital media don’t. In fact, the local content and power of your free paper makes advertising even more effective. We are the number one medium for driving purchases. That’s important in every product category. Including coffee. Free Papers JL Working for You �Page 12 — Thursday, January 2, 2020 •— The Hastings Banner Lessons and love more important than wins and losses in 2019 Brett Bremer Sports Editor - The real all-county team in 2019 was the one supporting Thomapple Kellogg junior Lydia Cole. It is a team spread across the county, the state and really the country - teammates, friends, competitors, family, nurses, doctors, coaches, teachers and more. The Shields of Hope organization of West Michigan led a parade of first responders and Cole’s supporters from the Yankee Springs Fire Department to the Cole’s home the week before Christmas, with flashing lights, Christmas gifts as well as hope, love and ehcouragement for Lydia who began a third Torm of chemotherapy this month in an attempt to slow the spread of her cancer. Cole, a member of the Delton KelloggThomapple Kellogg-Hastings varsity girls’ shimming and diving team became the focus df the program’s annual Cancer Awareness Meet this fall. It turned into a fundraising effort throughout most of the OK Rainbow Conference Tier II that has raised thousands of dollars for her family and some of Lydia’s favorite support organizations. It is a team effort that continues into the new year. Cole’s former Hammerheads Swim Club coach Mike Schipper continues to share updates with the club. He said he delivered a blanket to Lydia recently that some Hammerheads from the Caledonia High School team made for her. “This new chemo is really hard. Lydia is often sick and is weak, but her spirit is still so strong,” he said. Cole is more than a swimmer or a tennis player, or a former cross country runner, just as high school sports are about more than wins and losses, points and penalties, minutes and seconds. Every good high school coach emphasizes the camaraderie and life lessons gained and learned through athletics above everything else. There is learning to be done in loss and in victory. Most of the rest of the most newsworthy Barry County sports stories from 2019 are The Thornapple Kellogg varsity softball team celebrates its Division 2 District Championship in Hopkins after knocking off Wayland in the district final after also besting the Wildcats for the 2019 OK Gold Conference championship, the second straight conference title for the Trojans who shared the Gold championship with the Wildcats in 2018. victories on the field, court, course or track, or in the pool, but no victory would be a better one to see in 2020 than to see Cole, cheeks pink, goggles tight, popping up to see her time on the board above the starting blocks at the CERC next fall. The Lakewood varsity volleyball family is one that has dealt with tough situations off the court, but on it the Vikings continue to have more success than any other varsity program The Delton Kellogg varsity competitive cheer team performs at its Division 4 Regional Meet at Caledonia High School in February. Hastings sophomore Ashland Hoyt sends her ball rolling down the alley during the Division 2 State Finals singles competition at Century Bowl in Waterford in March. Hoyt earned a spot in the state finals at the end of the new Saxon varsity bowling program’s first season by winning the championship at her regional singles competition. around the county. The Lakewood program made its tenth appearance in the state final four in November, earning its fifth state runner-up trophy. Grand Rapids Christian scored a victory in the final Lakewood varsity volleyball match of the season for the second consecutive season, winning its second consecutive state champi­ onship by besting the Vikings 25-21, 25-15, 25-16 in the Division 2 State Final at Kellogg Arena in Battle Creek. “I couldn’t ask for a better program to play for,” Lakewood senior libero Kiana Hummel said after the loss to the Eagles. “It is an honor playing for Lakewood. Yes, it sucks losing, but we made it this far. We made it further this year than last year. It is amazing.” Continued next page Lakewood’s Aubrey O’Gorman (from left), Maradith O’Gorman, Skylar Bump and Sophie Duits celebrate their team’s victory in the Division 2 State Semifinals at Kellogg Arena in Battle Creek in November. The Vikings finished the season as the state runnerup, falling to Grand Rapids Christian in the State Final. The Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ basketball team gets its district championship trophy from head coach Mike Mohn following their 37-36 victory over Bronson in the Division 3 District Final at Delton Kellogg High School in March. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 2, 2020 — Page 13 From previous page Grand Rapids Christian bested the Vikings in the state semifinals in 2018. Hummel was one of a few new key contributors for the Lakewood team that brought back all-state towers junior Aubrey O’Gorman and sopho­ more Maradith O’Gorman. Middle hitter Aubrey and right side Maradith both earned first team all-state honors in Division 2 this season, and their freshman setter Skylar Bump earned a spot on the all-state second team. Lakewood also got big contributions in expanded varsity roles from seniors Jaizah Pyle and Haylee Marks, and junior Sophie Duits. “I told them, ‘do not take this for granted,” Lakewood head coach Cameron Rowland said after the state final. “There is no other program at our school that does this. Do not take for granted that you’re a part of the Lakewood volleyball program where the expectation is to be in Battle Creek every sin­ gle year. It is not a surprise. It is an expecta­ tion.’ They know that the first day they show up in the summer, and in the fall, that if we’re going to do this you have to be dialed in now and you have to know that is the absolute end goal.” Aubrey O’Gorman said after her team’s semifinal victory that it was aways the plan to meet top-ranked Grand Rapids Christian in the state final. “I have a bracket hung up in my locker,” Aubrey said after her team’s state semifinal victory. “I wrote Grand Rapids Christian and Lakewood in the finals in the first week. I think talking about that all the time gives us something to look forward to. We work hard enough in the offseason and the beginning of the season, we see some of the toughest teams in the state, and I think that definitely prepares us to let us know that we will be in the finals.” The Vikings swept through the Greater Lansing Activities Conference on their way to the postseason once again, besting the confer­ ence runner-up Maple Valley girls and all­ state (Division 3 third team) outside hitter Keilyn Carpenter for the title. Carpenter earned her name in the MHSAA state record book a couple more times this fall, notching 34 kills in a four-set match with Lansing Christian and finishing with 690 kills overall on the season. Carpenter’s performance, and that of the whole Lion varsity volleyball team which had one of its best seasons ever despite a quick ousting from the state tournament, was one of the highlights of the fall season at Maple Valley, but nothing was more newsworthy than the Lions’ first season of eight-player football. Low numbers of student-athletes in the program forced the Maple Valley program to make the switch from 11-player football to eight-player football this season. Maple Valley’s enrollment numbers are too high though-for the Lions to qualify for the MHSAA’s eight-player state tournament at the end of the season, so the Lions made the mpst of their eight regular season contests. The Lions didn’t have an opening week contest, and jumpeduaghtinto the eight-player pool by taking on Colon liTwe^-one r the team that went on to win the Division eight-player state championship. “When we played (Colon as an 11-player program in 2017) they were a bunch of fresh­ men and sophomores,” Lion head coach Marty Martin said after his team’s 55-0 loss to the Magi. “We put it to them, just like they put it to us tonight. I said, now we have a model. They committed to it. They have worked hard. They got in the weight room. They worked hard in the summer in five-on-fives and seven-on-ones. They stayed after practice and worked hard on things they needed to work on.” “I and the other coaches said, there is the model. If they can do it, we can do it too.” While the Lions were the only county foot­ ball team that could not qualify for the state playoffs, for the first time in a long time none Thornapple Kellogg junior Lydia Cole smiles up out of the pool after a race during the Delton Kellogg-Thornapple Kellogg-Hastings varsity girls’ swimming and diving team’s annual Cancer Awareness Meet against Wayland in October. The meet turned into a fundraiser for Cole and her family this year as she continues to battle pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. of the five Barry County varsity football teams did qualify for the state playoffs. Thomapple Kellogg, Hastings and Delton Kellogg led the county with four victories apiece on the gridiron. Football was one of the few varsity sports where the county did not have student-ath­ letes competing for state championships at the end of the season. Lakewood junior first sin­ gles player Brady Gawne to the Division 3 Lower Peninsula Boys’ Tennis Finals. The Thomapple Kellogg varsity boys’ soccer team won a rare district championship in Division 2, knocking off state ranked Marshall in the regional semifinals before a tough loss to the Mattawan boys in the regional final in Eaton Rapids. The Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ golf team took the 2019 OK Gold Conference championship and qualified for the Division 2 Lower Peninsula State Finals where it placed eighth at Forest Akers East Golf Course on the campus of Michigan State University. While the Trojans were shooting at MSU, Hastings sisters Rayna Honsowitz and Rylee Honsowitz were competing in the Division 3 Lower Peninsula State Finals at The Meadows on the campus of Grand Valley State University. “Both Rayna and Rylee really worked hard this season and kept their cool during the tour­ nament,” Hastings varsity girls’ golf coach Kristen Laubaugh said. “The course was tough and played deceivingly long. Friday really tested their patience because we had a 90-minute frost delay and the round took over six afw?n-tiisif hours. There Was a lot of wait­ ing in between shots which prevented any sort of rhythm in their game to develop. “Saturday’s round went much smoother as we got on the course at the scheduled tee time and played moved much faster.” Rayna, a senior, finished in a tie for 15th over the course of the two-day, 36-hole event. She scored an 87 Friday and an 86 Saturday to finish at 173 in her third appearance at the state finals. It was the junior Rylee’s first appearance in the State Finals. She scored an 89 Friday and followed up with a 93 on Saturday for a tow-day total of 182. The Delton Kellogg-Thornapple KelloggHastings varsity girls’ swimming and diving team sent a pair of athletes to the Division 2 Lower Peninsula State Finals in Holland in November. Senior Hannah Johnson, the OK Rainbow Tier II Conference diving champion, qualified for the state finals in diving for the first time this fall. Her sophomore teammate, Abby Marcukaitis made her second appear­ ance at the state finals this fall. Marcukaitis captured a state medal for her seventh-place time of 57.23 seconds in the 100-yard backstroke final, earning all-state honors for her finish. She set a new school record with her time of 57.14 seconds in the event’s preliminary race. She also broke the DK-TK-HHS record in the 50-yard freestyle during the preliminary heats, placing 25th in the race with a time of 24.81 seconds. That was the oldest DK-TK-HHS record left on the board in the Community Education and Recreation Center, set at 24.95 in 2009 by Natalie VanDenack. Marcukaitis bested VanDenack’s 100-yard freestyle record at the OK Rainbow Tier II Conference Meet earlier in the month. The county was also well represented at the 2019 Lower Peninsula Cross Country Finals. Every varsity cross country team in the coun­ ty sent at least one boy to the state finals at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, and a few girls accompanied them as well. “It was kind of magical,” Hastings senior Jon Arnold said of getting to finish his senior cross country season at the Division 2 Lower Peninsula State Finals. “It was a faster race than I expected. It was a very fast race. We all stuck it out and did better than we expected.” Arnold, Blake Harris, Aidan Makled, Josh Brown, Braden Tolles, Tyler Dull and Braxton McKenna all closed out their senior season with the Hastings varsity boys’ cross country team at MIS. Makled, running in the finals for the second straight season, scored his first state medal, placing 22nd in the field of 245 runners. Makled hitlhefiniMFlir^in 46 minuter 26:2 seconds. The Hastings boys were 17th in the final team standings, just a couple of spots behind the 1986 Saxon boys’ team that was the only other one to ever qualify for the state finals. The Saxon boys were joined in the Division 2 race by Thornapple Kellogg senior Nick Bushman and Lakewood junior Nathan Alford. TK sophomore Jessica Durkee ran in the Division 2 girls’ race along with Hastings’ Carissa Strouse. In the Division 3 boys’ race earlier in the day, Delton Kellogg junior Mycah Ordway, DK senior Matt Lester and Maple Valley freshman Ashton Ripley were among the competitors. It was the second year in a row both Ordway and Lester qualified for the finals, but the first time Ordway was able to compete at MIS. Ordway didn’t get to run at MIS at the end of his sophomore season because of an emer­ gency appendectomy. He made the most of this chance in 2019. He was just one of five runners in the top 30 to set a personal record in the D3 boys’ race this year, earning a state Thornapple Kellogg’s Jacklyn Morgan, Stephanie Pitsch, Claudia Wilkinson and Kaylee Spencer celebrate their runner-up time in the 4x400-meter relay at the Division 2 Regional Meet hosted by Mason in May. They had their best time of the season in the race by about seven seconds, qualifying for the Division 2 Lower Peninsula State Finals with the performance. The foursome placed 19th at the state finals in the race. Wilkinson and Spencer each earned individual state medals at the finals, with Wilkinson second in the high jump and Spencer seventh in the 100-meter dash. Lakewood’s Grant Clarkson works to a 10-4 win over Montrose’s Griffin Barnette in the Division 3 285-pound consolation final at the Individual State Finals at Ford Field in Detroit, earning a third-place state medal. Clarkson was one of four Vikings to win state medals at the finals, with Zac Gibson fifth at 103 pounds, Kanon Atwell fourth at 112 pounds and Jon Clack sixth at 189 pounds. The Hastings varsity competitive cheer team runs through its round three routine a the Division 2 Regional Tournament hosted by Kenowa Hills in February. The Saxofi and Thornapple Kellogg girls both qualified for the regional round of the state tournament in 2019, competing together at Kenowa Hills. medal with his 30th-place time of 16:47.8. A soggy course from recent rains slowed every­ one down a bit - everyone but Lester and a handful of others. With talented young pitchers, strong bats and good fundamentals both the Delton Kellogg and Thomapple Kellogg varsity soft­ ball teams took district championships in the spring of 2019. The Thomapple Kellogg girls bested OK Gold Conference nemesis Wayland to win the outright OK Gold Conference championship, a year after sharing the conference title with the Wildcats, and then followed that up by knocking off the Wayland girls 11-5 in the Division 2 District Final at Hopkins High School in June to earn their first district cham­ pionship since 2000. The Delton Kellogg girls made it back-toback district championships with Delton Kellogg with a 10-0 six-inning victory over host Union City in its Division 3 District Final the first Saturday in June. The two victories upped the Panthers’ victory total to 30 on the season. Panther junior pitcher Erin Kapteyn struck out ten Chargers, scattering five hits and a walk in the shut out victory. She threw all 13 innings for her team to earn the two wins in the circle. Junior catcher Katie Tobias, who recently signed her National Letter of Intent to join the Central Michigan University soft­ ball program, was 4-of-8 at the plate with four runs scored and five RBI in the two games for the Panthers, belting a pair of home runs over the right field fence in the opener to push her team past the Vikings. Delton Kellogg returned every starter from its 2018 district championship team, that put together a 20-13 record, adding talented freshman Aubrey Aukerman who opened the year as the team’s centerfielder and moved to shortstop late in the season because of an inju­ ry to Hailey Bucker - who has been the team’s DH in recent games. “It builds stronger bonds with people/; Tobias said of bringing back such a big group of ballplayers. “We know each other strengths and weaknesses more. We know how they like to be picked up and how they react to different situations. We understand each other more I feel.” It was a great start overall to 2019 for the Delton Kellogg girls, who also won soccer and basketball district championships in 2019. Junior attacker Holly McManus scored hed 48th, 49th and 50th goals of the varsity soccer season to power the Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ soccer team to a 3-0 win over Leslie in its Division 3 District Final at Olivet High School in May. It is the Panther girls’ firsts district championship, and it was from a teain whose only two seniors were foreign exchange students and Kassandra Wilson from Martin - one of four Clippers on the co-op team with the Panthers. *4 “A lot of us juniors have played together since we were four, really young, and a few others from Martin have been playing togeth­ er since a really young age too,” McManus said. “I think it is one of the best things. It is the first time in Delton history and I’ve been! able to do it playing with them. I have been* playing with them my entire life. Coach (Alan) Mabie has been my coach since I don’t even know when - a long time ago.” McManus was also a part of the Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ basketball team that won its first district championship since back-; to-back titles in 2012 and 2013 in March. > Bronson led by as many as five points in the third quarter of the district final at DKHS^ before the Panthers finished the period strong' to get within 30-28. The Panthers dominated* the first seven minutes of the fourth quarter going on a 7-0 run to take a five-point lead of their own at 35-30. Despite losing senior center Lexi Parsons Continued next page �Page 14 — Thursday, January 2, 2020 — The Hastings Banner SPORTS YEAR i IN REVIEW, । continued from previous page * the Panthers held on for a J Parsons, who sits near the top of the J Panthers’ all-time scoring and rebounding J lists, had to sit for the final 47.6 seconds after ; picking up her fourth and fifth fouls in quick » succession late in the fourth quarter. Parsons .had already spent the entirety of the second ! quarter on the bench after being whistled for J he second foul of the bailgame in the closing ' moments of the first quarter. J “It was tough, but I knew the girls would i pull through,” Parsons said. “We have been ! waiting and preparing for this game specifi* cally all week. We just had so much energy ■ coming in we were so positive. They knew J what we needed to do. We needed to shut | down the outside shooter and the big girl, so I that is what we did and we were successful. It । was a tough game, but we came out on top * and that is all that matters.” ‘ McManus led Delton Kellogg with 13 s points in the win, while DK also got strong l contributions from softball stars Kapteyn and ’ Tobias in the bailgame. ‘ The Thomapple Kellogg girls weren’t the ! only Trojans celebrating in Hopkins in early j June. The same day the TK girls were win­ ’ ning a softball district championship, the TK ‘ varsity baseball team was winning its Division I 2 District tournament as well. The Thomapple J Kellogg varsity baseball team clinched its J third consecutive district championship, takJ ing a 6-5 walk-off win over the Allegan Tigers i in what was a wild finish. * Evan Sidebotham strode a couple of steps ’ off the bag at second and Levi Vanderheide } worked his own lead off of first. ; Allegan pitcher Jayden Smith fired a low I strike in on Thomapple Kellogg senior Matt t McNee, working the count full after being in i a 3-1 hole with their teams knotted at 5-5. J McNee knocked Smith’s next offering ’ towards the Tigers’ second baseman Tristan ‘ Jacobs - not quite hard enough to be a line «drive and not quite high enough to be a pop । up. | That’s when all heck broke loose. McNee’s ; batted ball glanced off the Tigers’ second ^baseman, who spun around to snag it. * “I was looking from second,” Sidebotham f said. “I had myself turned around. It hit off (Jacobs’) glove and then it hit the ground. I looked to Dylan (Podbevsek) and he was just sitting on the bag (at third) and then he took off for a little bit, and then he got back. I was j confused.” From the Tigers’ dugout along the third baseline, the angle where the Allegan fans and Todbevsek were watching from, it appeared Jacobs had spun and snagged the deflection out of the air. Podbevsek initially broke for home from third, then turn back to the bag to tag up. Jacobs fired to Tiger catcher Hayden Kruithoff at the plate, forcing out Podbevsek. Sidebotham knew Podbevsek had been forced out at the plate, and broke safely for third. With his entire bench in his ear screaming jEor him to throw to first, thinking Jacobs had tnade the catch initially, Kruithoff fired the ball to first expecting to double off Vanderheide fwho’d rushed to second. ! “They were all confused if he caught the {ball or if he didn’t catch the ball,” Sidebotham jsaid. “I took advantage of the confusion and I Jjust took off. My coach didn’t say go or don’t, Jbut I just took off. At home plate I kind of just pfeved out of the way and got in.” g^ Jt took a moment before the Trojans erupt­ ed in celebration and many of the stunned Migers headed for their dugout still wondering *\vhat had happened or upset by it. The umpires Wade no signal for an infield fly. : /‘That last play, I swear he caught it,” ^Podbevsek said. “I was all ready to sprint jhome, but then I saw him catch the ball and I |was like I have got to go back. It was just the bne thing that I had to do. Next thing I know, the throws down to home and I realize I messed up. ! “Then I see Evan coming up the sideline, gust cookin’! When he touched that plate I knew it was all over. I was about to cry. There ®f‘no better feeling in the world. That was •afriazing. Seeing my coach like that, back-toback-to-back, that must be a great feeling.” .‘^Before long, Sidebotham was lifted off the turf with his fists raised to the sky by Colson Brummel, who had been awaiting his turn in %e batter’s box. Brummel, a junior, is the only Trojan player who has been a part of the 2017, 2018 and 2019 district championships. °^“They just play hard. These kids have worked hard all year. Don’t even look at our ffe^ord. We’re a better baseball team that what bur record is,” TK head coach Jack Hobert said. “We just come together. These guys wanted another one. That’s three in a row. “We had great practices leading up to this Weekend. You could see the kids were really 'focused. You can’t look at the record. If you look at the record you’re going to go ‘ah, it’s S fluke,’ but these kids are better than that, ^fhey just finally put it together. I always say districts are a brand new season. Forget about everything else and that is what they did.” * It was a solid spring for the Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ track and field team as well. TK sent its 4x400-meter relay team to ffie Division 2 Lower Peninsula State Finals, along with a handful of individual state quali­ fiers. Trojan junior Claudia Wilkinson was a part of that relay team that placed 19th at the Ifirials, placed 16th in the 300-meter low hurJdles, and earned a state runner-up in the high *jump by clearing the bar at 5 feet 2 inches. Delton Kellogg-Thornapple Kellogg-Hastings varsity boys’ swimming and diving coach Tyler Bultema gets a hug from senior swimmer before handing him one of his championship medals at the OK Rainbow Conference Tier II Championship in Hastings in February. Bultema coached his 15th and final season last winter. Fabiano qualified for the Division 1 Lower Peninsula State Finals in both the 100-yard freestyle and 100yard backstroke at the conference meet. Hastings senior Aiden Makled accepts his all-state medal at the Division 2 Lower Peninsula State Finals at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn in February. Makled placed 22nd individually and the Hastings varsity boys’ cross country team placed 17^ in its second appearance in the state finals as a program. Jordan Rench, one of three Delton Kellogg boys to qualify for the Division 3 Lower Peninsula Track and Field Finals, ran to a seventh-place finish in the 300-meter intermediate hurdles to earn a state medal in June. Delton Kellogg’s Caden Ferris battles Williamston’s Zach Painter (left) on his way to an eighth-place medal in Division 3’s 215-pound weight class at the Individual State Finals at Ford Field in Detroit in March. Hastings senior Rayna Honsowitz, junior Rylee Honsowitz and varsity girls’ golf coach Kristen Laubaugh take a moment for a photo during the Division 3 Lower Peninsula State Finals at The Meadows on the campus of Grand Valley State University. Rayna finished in a tie for 15th and Rylee 32nd, in a field of 108 golfers, at the finals. Wilkinson was one of five girls to tie for the runner-up spot in the event that was interrupt­ ed by thunderstorms that rolled across the state on what is annually the MHSAA’s busi­ est tournament day of the year. Wilkinson was one of two Trojans to earn all-state honors at the D2 finals for a top eight finish. Senior teammate Kaylee Spencer placed sixth in the 100-meter dash with a time of 13.09 seconds in another event fraught with delays, while also teaming with Wilkinson on the Trojans’ 4x400 relay team. They were joined at the D2 finals by Hastings high jumper Erin Dalman, Trojan pole vaulter Paige Zellmer and pole vaulter Payne Hanna from the Lakewood varsity boys’ track and field team. A handful of Delton Kellogg guys were a part of the Division 3 Lower Peninsula Track and Field Finals. Junior Jordan Rench earned the Panthers’ lone state medal, placing sev­ enth in the 300-meter intermediate hurdles. He was joined at the finals by sprinter Nicolas Dumas who was 24th in the 100-meter dash and sophomore discus thrower Cole Pape. Handfuls of individuals qualified for the state finals and earned state honors at the end of the 2018-19 winter season as well. The county had six wrestlers score state medals, a group led by Lakewood junior heavyweight Grant Clarkson who placed third in Division 3’s 285-pound weight class at the Individual State Finals at Ford Field in down­ town Detroit. Clarkson was one of four Lakewood wres­ tlers to earn state medals. Zac Gibson was fifth at 103 pounds, Kanon Atwell fourth at 112 pounds and Jon Clack sixth at 189 pounds. Delton Kellogg freshman Caden Ferris placed eighth in the 215-pound weight class in Division 3. Maple Valley had two state medalists in Division 4. Lion freshman Matthew Slaght was sixth at 103 pounds and sophomore Jesse Brumm sixth at 119 pounds. Thornapple Kellogg senior Christian Wright was the area’s lone state medalist in Division 2, placing sixth at 171 pounds. While Hastings didn’t send an individual to the state finals, the Saxons had one of three teams to win a district wrestling champion­ ship in 2019. The Thornapple Kellogg varsity wrestling team scored a 60-15 victory over the Hastings boys in the opening dual of the season in December 2018, but after a couple months of wrestling and a couple weeks with very limited amounts of wrestling or wres­ tling practice even because of winter storms the Saxons got their revenge. Hastings bested the Trojans 40-36 in the Division 2 District Final in Middleville in mid-February. Continued next page �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 2, 2020 — Page 15 The Maple Valley varsity football team made the move to eight-player football for the 2019 season, due to low numbers in the program. The Lions were unable to qualify for the state playoffs because their school enrollment numbers were to high to meet the MHSAA standard for the state’s eight-player tournament. From previous page The Saxons had a handful of freshmen in their line-up improve tremendously as the season went on. TK had a few injuries it was dealing with. It all added up to a very different outcome. In the opening dual, TK won every bout between 130 pounds and 215 pounds. Hastings took four of the five matches from 135 pounds to 160 Thursday, getting huge pins from senior Jacob Pennington at 145 pounds and Kenny Smith at 160 who were both pinned by Trojans in December. Tyler Dull also scored a pin for the Saxons at 152 pounds, and Gabe Trick switched his result with TK’s Matthew Middleton with a 5-0 win Thursday in the 135-pound match. “We made a point of it. We’ve got nothing to lose, why not do something special,” Hastings first-year head coach Darrell Slaughter said. “Who ever thinks that is going to work out? But it did.” Eventually, it came down to the final bout of the evening, with Hastings’ Mason Denton pinning TK’s Camren Zoet 1 minute 34.1 seconds into their 119-pound match. Lakewood and Maple Valley also won distn&t wrestling championships. For the Lions in DivisiOT*^iMya^didr first district champi­ onship since a stringW^n^o^^itiYetitles from 2004-2007. Lakewood upset tenthranked Portland 31-28 to win its Division 3 district title. “It was a great quality win and it is what we worked all season for,” Lakewood head coach Tony Harmer said. “We wrestled tougher tournaments this year and it definitely got us ready for this one. I am extremely proud of each and every one of these wrestlers, espe­ cially the ones that didn’t wrestle that night. They push our kids in the room to be the best they can be.” Lakewood and Thomapple Kellogg both won conference wrestling championships in 2019. Lakewood was the only varsity competitive cheerleading team from the county to earn a conference championship in 2019, sweeping its way through the Greater Lansing Activities Conference once again. But in a race occur­ rence the county did not have a team compet­ ing in the state cheer finals. Lakewood, Hastings, Thomapple Kellogg and Delton Kellogg all advanced through districts to the regional round of the state tournament, but couldn’t break through to earn a spot at the DeltaPlex. The county did get a couple bowlers to the state finals though. The Lakewood varsity boys’ bowling team captured the GLAC Championship and then earned a spot in the Division 3 Team Finals at Northway Lanes in Muskegon, earning a tenth-place finish in qualifying. In Division 2, Thomapple Kellogg’s Carly Snyder and Hastings’ Ashlyn Hoyt both qual­ ified for the state singles competition. For Hoyt it was the culmination to the long pro­ cess in 2018 of getting a bowling program started once again at Hastings High School. Hoyt rolled her way to a regional champion­ ship in 2019. “I knew that I could win, and that is what I did. I went out there and I bowled the best that I could. It was challenging, definitely, trying to see the transitions and trying to see every­ thing when things were breaking down. It was just really hard, but I worked through that and came out strong,” Hoyt said. Snyder advanced all the way through to the state quarterfinals of the singles tournament at the D2 finals at Century Bowl in Waterford. She had already helped lead a young TK girls’ team to an OK Gold Conference champion­ ship in 2019. While there were some bittersweet moments around the pool deck for the DK-TK-HHS girls’ swimming and diving team in the fall of 2019 there were some for the DK-TK-HHS boys’ last winter as well. Head coach Tyler Bultema coached his final meets for the pro­ gram, retiring from coaching after 15 years. He was showered with gifts from former Thornapple Kellogg’s Paige Willette watches a shot fly at the Division 2 Lower Peninsula Girls’ Golf Finals at Forest Akers-East-Golf Course in October. The Trojan team placed eighth at the finals. Saxons take tie-breaker for tournament title in Coopersville The Delton Kellogg varsity softball team celebrates its second consecutive district championship after a 10-0 victory over host Union City in the Division 3 District Final in June. The win in the district championship was the Panthers’ 30^q of the season. The Hastings varsity wrestling team shows off its hardware after winning Coopersville’s annual Military Appreciation Tournament Saturday, going 4-1 in duals on the day with victories over Kent City, Ravenna, Northview and Zeeland West. The Saxons fell in a dual with the host Broncos, but bested them on the tie-breaker to earn the trophy. • The Saxon varsity wrestling team is presented with its Division 2 District Championship trophy by Thornapple Kellogg High School athletic director Brian Harmer after Hastings’ 40-36 win over the host Trojans in the district final in Middleville in February. athletes during the OK Rainbow Tier II Conference Meet, and also tossed into the pool with the conference champion coaches from Wayland and Caledonia-Lowell-South Christian at the conclusion of the meet. The conclusion of the conference meet wasn’t the end for DK-TK-HHS senior Alex Fabiano though, who went on to face in the Division 1 State Finals in both the 100-yard backstroke and the 100-yard freestyle. Fabiano closed out a stellar varsity swimming career by medaling in 15th-place in the 100yard backstroke at the finals in Holland. Coopersville pulled out a 38-35 win over the Hastings varsity wrestling team at the Broncos’ Military Appreciation Tournament Saturday, but it didn’t keep the Saxons from the title. Hastings went 4-1 on the day, as did Coopersville, with the Saxons earning the tie-breaker for the overall title on points. The Saxons beat Kent City 48-30, and Kent City scored a victory of its own over Coopersville (42-37). Mason Denton, Jackson Dubois and Robby Slaughter were all 5-0 on the day for the Saxons. Payton Miller Tyler Dull, Gabe Trick, Zach Chipman and Griffin Seeber had four wins each and Shane Dillon and Joe Tumes had three wins each. Coopersville built a 38-21 lead through the first 11 bouts in its dual with the Saxons, and Murphy Crandle and Breydon VanOffelen came up huge for their team, battling to limit Seeber (130 pounds) and Slaughter (140) to major decisions. Seeber bested Crandle 13-4 and Slaughter bested VanOffelen 14-6. Both Saxons had their Bronco opponent on their back in the first period, but the Coopersville guys were able to avoid the pin. In between those bouts, Denton had no trouble sticking Jordan Gillhespy in the 135pound match, earning the pin in 16 seconds. Miller, Dull and Dubois also had pins in that dual for the Saxons and Dillon earned a 672 win over Jake Wiersma at 112 pounds. Slaughter, Trick, Miller, Dull, Elias Sanchez, Dubois and Neal had pins for the Saxons in the win over Kent City. Chipman scored an 8-5 decision over Kent City’s Zane Kik at 103 pounds and Denton closed the dual with a 10-6 win over Brayden Armstrong at 130 pounds. The Saxons dominated their other duals, scoring a 69-7 win over Northview, a 60-19 win over Ravenna and a 51-24 win over Zeeland West. A The Saxons will return to action Saturday hosting their annual L.H. Lamb Tournament. Call 269-945-9554 for Banner ads �Page 16 — Thursday, January 2, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Local grapplers earn medals at X-mas Sparty Jordan Shirey from the Barry County .Grapplers Association is happy with his runner-up finish at the X-mas Sparty in Lansing the weekend before Christmas. Patton Boomer from the Barry County Grapplers Association celebrates his runner-up finish at the X-mas Sparty in Lansing the weekend before Christmas. Barry County Grapplers Association wrestler Kade Case celebrates a thirdplace finish at the end of the X-mas Sparty in Lansing the weekend before Christmas. Carter Armour from the Barry County Grapplers Association shows off his medal after winning his division at the X-mas Sparty in Lansing the weekend before Christmas. Barry County Grapplers Association wrestler Maverik Peake displays his winnings after a third-place finish in his division at the X-mas Sparty in Lansing the weekend before Christmas. Lion wrestlers score two wins at Clipper Classic The Maple Valley varsity wrestling team went 2-3 at Martin’s Clipper Classic Saturday. The Lions bested teams from Constantine 45-18 and Allegan 36-18. Grant bested the Lions 44-27. Martin beat the Lions 38-18. The Lions also fell 47-15 to Plainwell. There were many forfeits and defaults throughout the holiday tournament. - Jesse Brumm and Gage Ertman had wins on the mat for the Lions against Allegan, with Brumm pinning Daulet Zhumartov in the 130pound match and Gage Ertman pinning Mason Wooster ten seconds into the 103pound bout. In the win over Constantine, the Lions got pins from Matthew Slaght against Andrew Colwell at 112 pounds and AJ Raymond against Jacob Norton at 171. David HosackFrizzell also scored a win for the Lions over The News the Falcons, besting Dakota Anthony 11-8 in the 189-pound match. Ertman and Raymond scored pins against Grant, while Brumm added a 4-2 decision in a 135-pound dual with Brady Jacobs. Brumm had a pin against Martin as well, sticking Tyler Hilton late in the second period of their 130-pound match. The Lion and Plainwell line-ups lined up well. Brumm scored a pin against Drake Blackmun at 130 pounds, and the Lions took three decisions as well. Hosack Frizzell opened the dual with a 7-2 win over Dalton Shannon at 189 pounds. Ertman earned an 11-6 win over Brendan Smith. At 171 pounds, Raymond scored a 10-4 victory over Luke Lyons. ^Members of the Barry County Grapplers Association took part in the NUWAY X-mas Sparty Tournament in Lansing the weekend before Christmas. The group of wrestlers included (back from left) Bella Friddle, Austin Friddle and Isaac Friddle who earned second-place finishes. Is Just the Beginning Tobias will join former DU coach at Central Your Community... Your Family.. .Your Interests... Your Home.. .Your World... Call 800.870.7085 ar pickit up atone of locations listed below! It's All a Part ofYour Local Newspaper! Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 Hastings DANNER Area locations to purchase the Hastings Ba One Stop Shop (Phillips 66) (M-43 N) Sam’s Gourmet Foods Woodland Express Doster Country Store Trading Post Superette Family Fare Nashville Tom’s Market Little’s Country Store Hastings Johnny’s The General Store Prairieville Fast Stop Nashville Johnny’s CWWe Nashville C Store Cloverdale General Carl’s MV Pharmacy Marathon Mega Bev Penn-Nook Gift Shop Brown’s Cedar Creek Grocery Phillips 66 Gas Station (W. State St.) Family Fare Gas Station Lake Odessa Shelbyville Town & Country Walgreens Lake-O-Express Lake-O-Mart Lake Odessa Johnny’s Delton Carl’s Family Fare Speedway Delton Johnny’s Middleville Marketplace Banfield Greg’s Get-lt-N-Go Middleville Johnny’s Banfield General Store Dowling Goldsworthys L&J’s Freeport General Store Brett Bremer Sports Editor New Central Michigan University wom­ en’s softball coach McCall Salmon took a step up this summer, and she thinks that Delton Kellogg senior Katie Tobias can make that step with her. Tobias signed her National Letter of Intent last month to join the Central Michigan University Chippewas beginning with the 2020-2021 season. Coach Salmon recruited Tobias when she was leading the Davenport University, an NCAA Division II, program last spring and kept right on wanting Tobias on her team when she joined the Division I Chippewas in June. “The main reason I chose Davenport was because of (the coaching staff). Once they offered me, I couldn’t say no,” Tobias said. Tobias is looking forward to playing for Salmon, and former Wayland star and CMU standout Brittini Merchant who will continue as an assistant under Salmon. “I visited and did a bunch of camps with Davenport, and just got closer with them. I really enjoyed watching their games, and their coaching style. I just wanted to play for them,” Tobias said. She was nervous at first, not wanting to go through the whole recruiting process all over again once it was announced Salmon was leaving Davenport. “It turned out all good,” Tobias said. Tobias, will be the Panthers’ senior catcher in her fourth varsity^season this spring. She has been a team captain each of the past two seasons and is a two-time team MVP. She had 16 home runs last spring, record­ ing a .545/.628/1.26 line (batting average, on-base percentage, slugging percentage). She was named all-state honorable mention in Division 3 each of the past two seasons, help­ ing lead the Delton Kellogg varsity to backto-back district championships the past two seasons and 30 total victories a year ago. “I think we have a really good shot of win­ ning regionals this year,” Tobias said. “The past couple years we’ve made it to regionals and fallen short. This year we’re really deter­ mined we don’t want to just win districts. We want to win regionals. We want to go as far as we can. I think we have the group of girls to do it this year.” Tobias is one of three DK softball seniors who have chosen their collegiate teams already. Hailey Buckner recently signed with Delton Kellogg senior Katie Tobias signs her National Letter of Intent to join the Central Michigan University women’s softball program at DKHS in November. Tobias has earned honorable mention all-state honors in Division 3 each of the past two seasons, helping lead the Panther program to back-to-back district championships. Adrian College and Lily Timmerman signed with Lake Michigan College. There is a chance senior Erin Kapteyn joins them at the collegiate level soon as well. Tobias is still working on what she might want to major in at CMU, education or possi­ bly sports psychology. “I want to be around kids and people mak­ ing a difference,” Tobias said. Watching her big sister Kylie Tobias play­ ing travel ball really stoked the flames of wanting to be softball player Katie said. Tobias and a few of her other softball team­ mates also helped the DK varsity girls’ bas­ ketball team to a district championship in 2019, and she is in the middle of her senior season on the basketball court currently. “I have basketball during the week. On Saturdays, my travel and high school (softball teams) do indoor games. Every other Sunday I have travel practice, and then I have hitting up here at the high school. During the week, I get in and hit at my house.” Her stellar bat has been helped by the bat­ ting cage her father built upstairs in the bam about five years ago. She hits off a tee most of the time, and takes some soft toss from her dad now and then. “Mostly I just go up there by myself and work on what I need to work on,” Tobias said. Salmon was the head coach at Davenport from 2014-19, posting a 235-63 record and leading the program through a successful transition from the NAIA to the NCAA Division II according to her CMU bio. She has big shoes to fill at CMU, taking over for legendary coach Margo Jonker who led the Chippewas from 1980-2019. The CMU soft­ ball stadium was renovated and renamed Margo Jonker Stadium while she was still coaching there in 2008. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-01-09.pdf fb5dd30f88fc26aa4a272981cc374c04 PDF Text Text Hastings Police seek info in ‘swatting’ case See Story on Page 7 What’s that I just read? See Editorial on Page 4 Saxons win 3rd Lamb trophy in 4 years See Story on Page 14 80487911018 1070490102590503897049058113421 ************************** CAR-RT LOT**C 005 Richard Hemerling 421 N Taf'fee Dr Hastings Ml 49058-1134 C005 6/30/2020 9:47:00 AM VULUIVHZ Thursday, January 9, 2020 IU/, IW. Hastings man faces 10 felonies after police standoff Supper Club presenting weight-loss program The Hastings Healthy Living Supper Club will present a program “From want­ ing to winning: Balanced strategies for permanent weight loss,” tonight, begin­ ning at 6:30 p.m. The program will cover seven strategies to help make needed changes, as well as five shopping secrets for successful weight loss. A plant-based supper will be provided, along with recipes and handouts. The information, meal and program are free; donations are welcome. The presentation will be at 888 Terry Lane (off Star School Road), Hastings, in the Seventh-day Adventist community hall. More information and registration are available by emailing janiccclearyl942@ gmail.com or calling 269-948 3161. DKHS Hall of Fame Night Friday Delton Kellogg High School will host its annual Athletic Hall of Fame Night Friday as the varsity girls’ and boys’ bas­ ketball teams host Constantine for Southwestern Athletic Conference Valley Division contests. The Panthers will honor Bill Boyle (Class of 1979), Craig Pennock (Class of 1982) and Scott Haas (Class of 1997) for their athletic achievements as student-ath­ letes at Delton Kellogg. The ceremony will be between the varsity basketball games, approximately 7:15 p.m. The DK varsity girls’ basketball team is set to tip off at 6 p.m., with the boys’ game to follow the Hall of Fame ceremony. Legion hosting oratorical contest Lawrence J. Bauer Post 45 in Hastings will host the American Legion Oratorical contest at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 18 and Feb.1. The annual competition features speeches by high school students on the Constitution of the United States. Contestants will be judged on their perfor­ mances, and two will be chosen to advance to the state level, where college scholar­ ships will be awarded to the top five fin­ ishers. The intent of this 85-year-old contest is to familiarize students with the Constitution and provide scholarship awards to finalists at the state and national levels. The public is invited to Post 45, at 2160 M-37, south of Hastings, to listen to the young people share their knowledge. Spectators are asked to arrive prior to 10 a.m. PCCI, Manor displaying photography Area residents have two choices for viewing free photography exhibits in the next several weeks. Pierce Cedar Creek Institute is hosting a display of photos by Bob and Mary Meppelink, and the Rehab Center’s art gallery at Thornapple Manor Rehab is exhibiting photos by Roy Van Loo. Inspired by PCCI director Michelle Skedgell, the Meppelinks photographed various sites on the institute’s 742 acres, showing the changes from season to sea­ son, The project took more than two years, and the Meppelinks took about 4,000 photos during their 40 or so trips to the institute. See NEWS BRIEFS, page 2 Taylor Owens Staff Writer A 6!4-hour standoff in Hastings led to an arrest and 10 felony charges against a 32-yearold Hastings man Wednesday morning. Police said Terry Jack Rose was armed with a gun when he barricaded himself inside a residence in the 700 block of North Hanover Street Tuesday night. He refused to come out until the Michigan State Police Emergency Support Team fired pepper-spray canisters into the house. Hastings City Police Chief Jeff Pratt said officers received a call sometime after 10 p.m. Tuesday, from a woman asking officers to go to the residence to check on her daughter. When officers arrived, the daughter was outside the house. She told police she had been assaulted and trapped inside the house by Rose. She said Rose had a gun and had made threatening and suicidal statements to her. Rose reportedly had been drinking. He refused to answer the door or exit the house. A standoff ensued from 10:30 p.m. Tuesday to 5 a.m. Wednesday, when Rose walked out unarmed. He was charged Wednesday with two counts of criminal sexual conduct, one count of assault with intent to commit criminal sex­ ual conduct, one count of kidnapping or Terry Jack Rose unlawful imprisonment* one count felonious assault and five counts of felony firearms. The investigation is* ongoing, Pratt said, and further charges may be issued. Rose has prior misdemeanor charges on his record, he said. 1 ■ Developers plans offer city anticipation, and some mystery Doug VanderLaan Contributing Writer Not everyone wanted to show their cards at Monday’s monthly meeting of the Hastings Planning Commission. The only one of three developers who did, Kevin Moore of Kendall Place, the Grand Rapids-based group planning a three-story, 45-unit housing project on vacant, city-owned property bordered by South Park, West Court and West State streets, sounded like he wanted to play an open hand. “We’re looking forward to doing something good here, and that’s why we’re here tonight, to listen to your ideas and suggestions about this site plan as we move ahead,” Moore said. “We want to give you a' quality building. And with your help and input, we can do that.” Moore’s presentation Monday was listed on the agenda as an unofficial site plan review of what’s been called the Court Street Planned Unit Development ordinance. Planning commission members were able to provide input and offer suggestions but were not able to take any action on the Kendall Place plans. Though Moore indicated that additional planning commission input may be requested, ultimately, a final site plan would be recommended for approval by the planning commission to the Hastings City Council which would make a final resolution. Kendall Place holds a $5,000 purchase option on the property and has until Dec. 31 to exercise the option and purchase the property at $77,000. The property that has been on the market for 10 years carries an assessed value of $200,000. Moore, a partner in the Kendall Place group along with principal Nate Heyboer, owner of DHE Plumbing and Mechanical in Hudsonville, have been down this road before. A plan for a three-story, 41-unit apartment structure to be built on the former Moose Lodge property at 128 N. Michigan Ave. was turned down in August by the city council, which awarded the project to A J. Veneklasen, also a Grand Rapids developer. After a phone call from the city’s community development director, Dan King, the day after losing out on the project planned See PLANS, page 5 PRICE Commissioners move slow on refugee request Rebecca Pierce Editor A 14-year-old refugee, alone and without family, is in need a home in the United States. Delton couple Kim and Thang Nguyen, who are licensed to provide foster care, want to provide it. First, however, Barry County commis­ sioners must allow it. They are being asked to authorize a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that states the county’s consent to allowing the resettling of unaccompanied refugee minors with licensed foster families in the county by Bethany Christian Services. Bethany has never before placed refugee adult or families in the county, according to Jane Trejo, Bethany’s refugee employment program manager. But, before her presentation was offered Tuesday and commissioners’ questions answered at their committee of the whole meeting, objections to Bethany’s request were the first order of business. During public comment immediately fol­ lowing the Pledge of Allegiance, Eldon Shellenbarger of Hastings got up and told commissioners their priorities must lie with their citizens. “I have a real issue with this and I’m not prejudiced by any means,” Shellenbarger said. “We have homelessness right here in Barry County. There’s a man living down in the Kmart parking lot in his automobile. ... We have homeless camps in Barry County, but yet you want other people in Barry County who are not citizens - and take care of them first before we take care of our own people. ...It’s not our job. It’s not our duty. It’s not our responsibility but to take care of our own people first.” Joel Ibbotson of Rutland Charter Township said the public was, more or less, blindsided by the request for refugee reset­ tlement since it came just days before what was stated as a Jan. 10 deadline. “I would hope, before we get all the details on this, that we do not make a decision. ...This is an important hot button topic. ...It’s too little too late. I hope every single commissioner here votes no.” The quick turnaround for the request was a concern for Commissioners Vivian Conner ~ and Jon Smelker as well. President Donald Trump issued an execu­ tive order on Sept. 26 that requires refugee resettlement agencies like Bethany to obtain written consent from state and county gov­ ernments to continue refugee resettlement work in that county. The written consent must be in the form of a letter addressed to Pompeo. Jane Trejo, program manager for the. refugee employment program at Bethany Christian Services, answers commis­ sioners’ questions Tuesday. Initially, the order was intended to go into effect within 90 days of issuance. According to the information front Bethany, “It was our understanding that, starting Dec. 25. 2019, refugees would not be permitted to resettle into a state or local­ ity unless written consent is provided by the governor and a local official. We have since been given an extended date of Jan. 10, 2020, for compliance with the executive order.” If a governor consents, but a county does not, refugees will not be permitted to resettle in that locality. -X “In other words, failure to provide con­ sent from either the governor or local offi­ cials will result in a severe disruption to the lives of refugees and their families and would threaten the long-term stability of the refugee resettlement program.” See REFUGEES, page 3 Judge takes oath after fireworks Rebecca Pierce Editor Barry County’s newest circuit court judge was sworn in shortly after midnight on New Year’s Day outside the courthouse in Hastings. Vicky L. Alspaugh of Hastings took the oath standing on the sidewalk on the east side of the historic building. A small family group was among the New Year’s Eve crowd, watching the ball drop from the Walldorff building and the fireworks display, then they quietly walked together to the courthouse where the oath was adminis­ tered by Chief Judge William Doherty. Her family, including two daughters and husband, surrounded her, illuminating the proceedings with the lights from their cell­ phones. “If you would raise your right hand, please,” Doherty told Alspaugh. “Do you sol­ emnly swear that you will support the Constitution of the United States and the con­ stitution of this state and that you will faith­ fully discharge the duties of the office of cir- See JUDGE, page 10 Family members gather around Vicky L. Alspaugh of Hastings and Barry County Chief Judge William Doherty as he administers1 the oath of office shortly after midnight on New Year’s Day. (Photos by Rebecca Pierce) 1 �County board fills leadership roles What the jobs are and what they offer The Sobek family of Middleville welcomed the first baby born in Barry County in 2020 Jan. 2 at Spectrum Health Pennock in Hastings. Pictured are (front) mother Kathryn Sobek and her newborn son Daniel, along with son Charles, (back) father Matt Sobek, daughter Amelia and son Samuel. Middleville family welcomes county’s first baby of 2020 A Middleville family became the first in Barry County to welcome a baby into the world in 2020 Thursday, Jan. 2, Daniel Sobek was bom to parents Matt and Kathryn Sobek at Spectrum Health Pennock Hospital in Hastings at 6:15 p.m. He weighed in at 9 pounds and measured 21 1/2 inches long, hospital spokeswoman Janine Dalman said. “Kathryn mentioned she chose to delivery at the Pennock Family Birthing Center to be closer to home,” hospital spokeswoman Morgan Rademacher said. Daniel joins brothers Samuel and Charles and sister Amelia in the Sobek family. Rebecca Pierce Editor Barry County’s chief elected official is Heather Wing, by unanimous vote of the commissioners during their annual organizational session Jan. 2. By law, the board may choose its leader via secret ballot - but no one sought to do so. Commissioner Howard Gibson made the resolution to place Wing in the leadership role, with a second from last year’s Vice Chairwoman Vivian Conner. No discussion followed. Commissioners Jon Smelker, supported by Gibson, made a motion to adopt the resolution. The vote was unanimous. Commissioners applauded. “Thank you so much for your support,” Wing said. Then Smelker made a resolution to re-elect Conner vice-chairwoman, which was supported by Gibson. Again, no discussion. Commissioner Ben Geiger made the motion to adopt the resolution, supported by Gibson. The vote was unanimous. Commissioners applauded. The board went on to adopt board rules, with a few minor corrections, and Wing made committee appointments. (See separate story.) The meeting schedule for the year was agreed upon after discussion about whether some regular meetings should take place at night. (See meeting schedule in separate story.) Commissioners debated when and where night meetings could best be held, given the logistical challenges of opening the courthouse at night and paying staff and security officers overtime. Finally, they agreed to try one evening meeting in May at a location to be determined. After Thursday’s meeting, Wing said getting the chairmanship last year was a big surprise. Now that she’s getting more comfortable with the role, she’s preparing for what she expects to be “a busy year ahead.” “This is a huge election year,” Wing pointed out. All seven of the commissioners, who hold two-year terms, will ;be up for election this year. 4. SCounty Administrator Michael Brown said that, annually, each commissioner is paid a flat rate of $11,101, with $12,106 for the chairperson, who holds'greater responsibility in that leadership post. This year, commissioners will receive a mileage reimbursement of 57 cents per mile for travel to and from their meetings, he said. They also are eligible for health insurance. They may choose between four plans offered Commissioner Vivian Conner, newly re-elected vice-chairwoman (left) with fellow board member Dan Parker and Chairwoman Heather Wing gather after the first county board meeting of 2020. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) by Blue Care Network or Blue Cross/Blue Shield. They also may opt for payment in lieu of health insurance. Commissioners receive dental and optical reimbursements of up to $500 per a year. They receive life insurance and workers compensation and are eligible for longevity pay once they have served the county continuously for five years or more. Longevity is calculated at $25 per year of service with a maximum of $600. Retirement pay is a hybrid plan, part defined contribution and part defined benefit. The Citizens Research Council of Michigan called county elected officials “agents of the state in such matters as the conduct of elections, enforcement of state criminal laws, registration of property deeds, issuance of birth certificates, and administration of justice, and they also provide services directly for the benefit of county residents: parks and recreation programs; water and sewerage services; solid waste disposal; airports; and economic development efforts. John Amrhein, government and public policy educator for the Michigan State University Extension, Service, pointed out thafi often, the general public doesn’t realize that county commissioners are lawmakers. “They pass numerous resolutions that establish the policies of county government,” Amrhein wrote. “These policies deal primarily with the agencies of county government and less directly with county residents. County policies deal largely with the county budget, appropriations, personnel, capital improvements, county services, and other internal matters.” The county board also provides legislative oversight. “Because of the limits on county lawmaking powers and the statutory assignment of duties to elected county officers, county commissioners may devote some of their time to looking over the shoulders of the administrators in county government,” he noted. “In so doing, they seek to assure that county administrators carry out their tasks effectively and efficiently. And they try to assess the effects of programs that county funds are being used for.” Commissioners also serve their constituents. Representing voters to administrators is a function that few, other than elected officials, can perform, according to Amrhein. “This involvement with residents also strengthens the oversight function because it gives commissioners a sense of how county programs are working. “As the elected body that oversees the entire county budget, the board of commissioners also meed? to look carefully at the ways that county departments interact with each other. The board is uniquely situated to be the unit of county government that keeps an eye on the future, anticipating changes in society and enabling legislation, and, through their policy setting role, working to keep the entire county operation focused on excellence and cost effectiveness in their provision of services to citizens.” Middleville to revisit allowing marijuana facilities Daniel Sobek was born Jan. 2 to Matt and Kathryn Sobek. He checked in at 9 pounds. Special meeting will focus on Yankee Springs hall renovations j Greg Chandler Staff Writer 2fee Yankee Springs Township board will hold a public hearing Saturday, Jan. 11, to hear from residents about the proposed renoYstion of and addition to the township hall. 'The hearing will take place at 11 a.m. at the township hall, 284 N. Briggs Road. The board, on a 3-2 vote in October 2019, authorized the engineering firm Fleis and VandenBrink to provide design development services, construction documents and bid doc­ uments for the hall project, at a cost of $95300. The project calls for renovating the existing 42X)0-square-foot hall, which was built in 1921, and constructing a 1,727-square-foot addition to the north side of the building. Preliminary estimates put the project cost at $898300. 2 fee decision sparked anger among some township residents, with objections focusing Qn/a perceived lack of public input into the decision as well as a lack of detail over how the project will be funded. The renovation portion of the project includes restoration of the exterior masonry of the building, addition of a new exit on the south side of the building, adding a new heat­ ing and cooling system, creation of a confer­ ence room, construction of a wider ramp that would meet requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act, a new closet to house the township’s information technology server and ceiling-mounted monitors that would allow board members and the public to see information presented from the podium at board meetings. The office addition would include a sepa­ rate entrance from the meeting room entrance, service windows for the clerk and treasurer, along with private offices for the supervisor, clerk, assessor and future zoning administra­ tor. While some have been critical of the pro­ cess, Township Trustee Larry Knowles said at a special meeting Oct. 30, 2019, renovation and addition to the township hall had been discussed in one form or another since 2002. Knowles pointed out that the board in 2012 approved a 1,120-square-foot addition, but the project was never started. Three years later, the board agreed to get estimates for the 2012 plans, but no work ever proceeded. A renovation committee was formed in July 2019 to resume discussions on the hall proj­ ect. The committee brought forth the recom­ mendation that was adopted at the Oct. 10 meeting. At a Nov. 20, 2019, meeting, a municipal financial advisor told board members the township should be able to adequately finance the project, based on the its general fund reserves, without having to raise taxes. Andy Campbell of the East Lansing-based firm Baker Tilly Municipal Advisors said the town­ ship could spend $300,000 out of its reserves and finance the remaining costs. The board has made no decisions on financing the proj­ ect. Greg Chandler Staff Writer Nine months after passing an ordinance to opt out of allowing any recreational marijuana facilities in Middleville, village leaders will take a second look at whether to allow them. The Village Council on Tuesday at its com­ mittee of the whole meeting directed the Planning Commission to further study the issue and come back with a recommendation by this summer on how to regulate such busi­ nesses. “I thought it would be good to talk about it again,” said Trustee Amanda Fisk, who said she believes there is a potential tax revenue stream some Michigan communities now allowing marijuana-based businesses, such as Ann Arbor and Evart, have begun to see that Middleville may miss out on. “Other communities are not going to keep waiting, and they’re going to start opting in, sooner or later, and we’re going to miss out,” Fisk said. On April 23 of last year, the Village Council voted unanimously to prohibit marijua­ na-based establishments in Middleville, with the Planning Commission to revisit the ordi­ nance once state regulations were finalized. The discussion comes as the state Marijuana Regulatory Agenda, a division of the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, extended by an additional six months its emergency administrative rules for imple­ menting the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marijuana Act. The extension gives municipalities through July 3 to make decisions on whether they want to allow marijuana-based facilities in their communities, MRA spokesman David Hams said. Michigan voters, in November 2018 approved Proposal 1, which legalized mari­ juana for recreational use. In Middleville, 60 percent of the village’s voters supported the measure - 793 yes votes to 528 no votes, Village Clerk Elaine Denton said. Some marijuana-ba?ed businesses have expressed interest in locating in Middleville, Village Planning and Zoning Administrator Brian Urquhart said. — “Other communities are not going to keep waiting, and they’re going to start opting in, sooner or later, and we’re going to miss out.” Amanda Fisk, Middleville f Village Council Trustee Whrmmmmmmi I “Right before I walked (into Tuesday’s meeting), I took one call (expressing inter­ est),” Urquhart said. Middleville officials have had discussions with city leaders in Lowell, which has been one of the few communities in the state to opt into allowing marijuana-based facilities. “They’ve moved to the point where they’re using the state licensing to vet all applicants. They chose to take a position that the market will figure out what the market needs to be, so they did not limit the number of facilities they would allow inside of Lowell,” Village Manager Duane Weeks said. “It could be two (facilities); it could be 10. They felt that going through the process to make a determination which ones to accept or not would open them up to some legal issues.” Macenzie Brown, a Middleville resident who owns the Wellness Boutique in Caledonia, spoke out in favor of allowing marijua­ na-based establishments in the village as a way to help clients who are looking for alter­ natives to prescription medications. Brown has already been prequalified by the state for a 500-plant marijuana growing operation in Baltimore Township. “Having a safe access facility in the area would solve so many problems, not only with the quality of products, but just the basic knowledge (of cannabis),” Brown told coun­ cil members. “Someone who has a lot of pain might not need cannabis flowers, they might need edibles, and not only edibles, but they might need a specific type of edible that would be able to last all day. I feel it’s import­ ant to have a place where people with ques­ tions can go and get answers ... from people who are experienced and knowledgable and can point them in the right direction.” Most council members said they felt taking a second look at the issue was worthwhile. Trustee Mike Cramer said allowing a legal cannabis-based business in the village would “run the black market out.” “It’d make law enforcement’s job easier, and for the people that are in need of the prod­ uct, it would make it easier for them, too,” said Cramer, who is the council’s liaison to the Planning Commission. “We had 6-7 resi­ dents at a Planning Commission meeting come in and say, ‘This is something I need to survive,’ and they’re driving to Jackson (to get their product).” At the Planning Commission meeting later Tuesday night, Cramer expressed interest in studying the experience of Evart, a northern lower Michigan community of about 1,900 residents where a recreational marijuana establishment opened last month. “I’m not so much worried about the store, as I am how the community went through it, and anything they might have had growing pain-wise,” Cramer said. “It’s Ann Arbor or Evart right now (in terms of cities with exist­ ing businesses), and we’re definitely not Ann Arbor. I’d love to hear what Evart went through and go that route, if there’s something they would change in their ordinance, in hind­ sight, that we could correct before we draft our (ordinance).” Trustee Phil Van Noord remains skeptical about the benefits of allowing marijua­ na-based businesses in the community, and questions what the cost would be for allowing it. “How are we going to supervise it? How are we going to figure out what’s right and what’s wrong?” Van Noord asked. “That’s going to take time. Are we going to employ more people to do that kind of (enforce­ ment)?... I haven’t, in my mind, seen enough to say this is a good thing for the community.” The Planning Commission’s Ordinance Committee is expected to study the issue and forward a proposal to the full commission, with no specific timetable proposed. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 9, 2020 — Page 3 REFUGEES, continued from page 1--------------Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has already submitted a letter of consent for the state. Now Bethany, along with the state’s refu­ gee coordinator Ben Cabanaw, are requesting a letter from the commissioners that provides written consent for Bethany to resettle refu­ gees in the county. Trejo explained that part of the reason for the delay in getting this request to the county is that they initially thought cities and town­ ships were the local units of government that would be responsible for handling these requests. “We’ve been reaching out to cities and townships over the last three months.” Once it was clarified that they hid to have county approval, Bethany moved to make the request. However, the county commissioners’ Joel Ibbotson of Rutland Charter Township opposed the request for refiH gee resettlement. Kim and Thang Nguyen of Delton are licensed foster care providers through Bethany Christian Services. (Photos by Rebecca Pierce) Eldon Shellenbarger of Hastings told commissioners to take care of their own people. last meeting in 2019 was Dec. 17, which elim­ inated weeks in which this request could have been considered by the board. Commissioners considered acting on Tuesday, Jan. 7, and discussed approving the request then to meet the Jan. 10 deadline. That, however, would have deviated from typical board procedure of recommendations coming out of committee of the whole meet­ ings followed by action approval at formal board meetings. And there were questions from commis­ sioners about the potential impact of the pro­ gram. When Smelker’s motion, supported by Conner, approved recommending approval of the letter to the board which meets at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14, Commissioner Ben Geiger voted against it. Geiger expressed concern about missing the Jan. 10 deadline. “Is there a risk that the placement will be County board sets meeting schedule for 2020 The Barry County Board of Commissioners will meet in its regular sessions at 9 a.m. Jan. 14, Jan. 28, Feb. 11, Feb. 25, March 10, March 24, April 14, April 28, May 12, June 9, June 23, July 14, July 28, Aug H, Aug. 25, Sept. 8, Sept. 22, Oct. 13 (annual meeting), Oct. 27, Nov. 10, Nov. 24, Dec 8 and Dec. 22. Commissioners scheduled one evening meeting this year. The May 26 meeting will begin at 7 p.m. Tentatively, the location for the meeting will be the Tyden Center in Hastings. The board’s committee of the whole meet-: ings will begin at 9 a.m. Jan. 21, Feb. 4, Feb. 18, March 3, March 17,April7,April21,May 5, May 19, June 2, June 16, July 7, July 21, Aug.4,Aug. 18,Sept. l,Sept. 15,Oct.6,Oct. 20, Nov. 3, Nov. 17, Dec. 1 and Dec. 15. Unless otherwise posted, these meetings will take place at the courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings, in the commissioners’ chambers on the mezzanine. Anyone with questions may call County Administrator Michael Brown, 269-945-1284. These meetings are open to all. The county will provide - with four busi­ ness days’ notice to County Administrator Brown - any necessary and reasonable auxil­ iary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities. Only members of the board are given the floor to speak during these meetings - with some exceptions. Public comment time allows anyone who desires to speak a limited-time opportunity to express their views during the meeting. Any county official or personnel, with the consent of the chairperson, may speak during the meeting. Any person, with the consent of the chairperson and/or a major­ ity of the board, may speak during the meet­ ing. 2 Public comment is limbed to no more than three minutes per person and at the times des­ ignated on the meeting agenda, except when extended privileges are granted by the chair­ person. County board committee assignments decided The Barry County Board of Commissioners last week approved committee assignments for individual commissioners for the coming year. Assignments are as follows: Howard Gibson, District 1 Grievance board regarding bargaining agreements, meets as need­ ed, in commissioners’ chambers. Transit board, meets at 9 a.m. the third Monday of each month in the Transit building training room. Barry Community Resource Network, meets at 11:45 a.m. the fourth Tuesday of.even-number months at the Commission on Aging building (the December meeting will be the second Tuesday). Department of Human Services, meets at 1 p.m. the fourth Wednesday with the location rotating between Thomapple Manor and Department of Health and Human Services. Hastings Local Development Finance Authority, meets at 8 a.m. the third Wednesday at the Hastings City Hall. Mental Health Authority meets at 8 a.m. the second Thursday at the Barry County Community Mental Health Authority Building. Dan Parker, District 2 Broadband expansion committee, see schedule with the Barry County Chamber of Commerce mibarry.com. Grievance board regarding bargaining agreements, meets as need­ ed, in commissioners’ chambers. Middleville LDFA, see schedule. MSU Extension District 7 Advisory Council, see www.facebook. com/District7MSUE/ Parks and recreation commission meetings are to be determined. (The first meeting was at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 8 at Charlton Park.) David Jackson, District 3 Animal shelter advisory board, meets at 6 p.m. the third Tuesday of odd-number months in the community room. Board of health, meets at 9:30 a.m. the fourth Thursday of each month at alternating sites. Board of public works, meets as needed in commissioners’ cham­ bers. Brownfield redevelopment authority, meets as needed at the Tyden Center in Hastings. Economic development alliance, meets at 8 a.m. the second Wednesday of the month in the community room. Grievance board regarding bargaining agreements, meets as need­ ed, in commissioners’ chambers. Joint planning alliance, meets at 5:30 p.m. the third Monday of each month in the Rutland Charter Township Hall. West Michigan Regional Planning board, see schedule at wmrpc. org. Jon Smelker, District 4 Airport commission, meets at 4:30 p.m. the fourth Wednesday of each month at the airport. . Board.of health, meets at 9:30 a.m. the fourth Thursday of each month at alternating sites. Board of public works, meets as needed in commissioners’ cham­ bers. Central Dispatch Administration, meets at 2 p.m. the fourth Monday of the month at Central Dispatch, with alternate dates and times in May, October and December. Judicial council/security commission meets at noon the first Tuesday in the Courts and Law Building. Transit board, meets at 9 a.m. the third Monday of each month in the Transit building training room. Ben Geiger, District 5 Board of health, meets at 9:30 a.m. the fourth Thursday of each month at alternating sites. ASCET meets at 8:30 a.m. the fourth Monday in Grand Rapids. Jordan Lake Board meets as needed in Lake Odessa. Planning and zoning meets at 7 p.m. the fourth Monday in the community room. Solid waste oversight committee meets at 8:30 a.m. the second Friday in the health department. Southwest Michigan Behavioral Health Board meets at 9:30 a.m. the second Friday in Portage. Vivian Conner, District 6 Board of public works, meets as needed in commissioners’ cham­ bers. Airport commission, meets at 4:30 p.m. the fourth Wednesday at the airport. Area Agency on Aging, Region 3B meets at 4 p.m. the third Monday in Battle Creek. Commission on Aging meets at 2 p.m. the third Tuesday in the COA building. Conservation district meets at 8:30 a.m. the second Wednesday at the conservation district office. Heather Wing, District 7 Community Action Agency meets at 4 p.m. the fourth Monday in Battle Creek. Community corrections advisory board meets at noon the fourth Tuesday at the OCC office. Conservation easement board meets at 6 p.m. the first Thursday in the community room. Local Emergency Planning Committee meets at 3 p.m. Friday at Central Dispatch. Solid waste oversight committee meets at 8:30 a.m. the second Friday at the health department. • Tax allocation board meets at 1 p.m. the third Monday in the com­ missioners’ chambers. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads jeopardized?” he asked. Trejo said, “We’re new to this. We don’t know how strict. It’s up to the State Department to decide. We’re living with a little bit of uncertainty. I would hope, if it’s done in a week, there wouldn’t be an issue with that.” Conner said she believed the letter could be submitted after Jan. 10 without jeopardizing the placement. Conner expressed concern about the poten- tial impact the Bethany program would have! on foster family programs and asked for accountability from Bethany as far as affected* populations. J “Barry County was having trouble getting^ foster families a while ago,” she said, pointing* to an expectation that Bethany would do out-? reach and provide data with regard to thej potential impact of refugee resettlement. , “This is new for us,” Trejo replied.* “Kalamazoo, Kent (counties) are the bulk ofj our coverage.” '1 Smelker, supported by Conner, voted4bt recommend approval of the letter to thefW board next Tuesday. After the meeting, Smelker said that ihS Jan. 10 date was not a concern, mentioi^^ Conner’s statement that the letter could’'oe submitted after that date. “There’s things I want to talk to other p&j£ pie, our court, about foster care in Barry County,” he said. “Why change our schecj^ ule?” NEWS BRIEFS i continued from front page Their photos, on display at the visitor center now through the end of February, are grouped together by site. Van Loo’s photography has been pub­ lished in various magazines and displayed at art shows, His working featuring wildlife and natural scenes is on display at Thomapple Manor through the end of March. Registration open for next leadership class Leadership Barry County is accepting applications for the 2020 class. The new session will begin Jan. 31 with a retreat at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute and end April 16. The nine-session program covers topics such as communication, local government, change management and diversity, as well as a tour of Barry County and a visit to the state capitol. : ; The cost is $395 and includes all session^ transportation, overnight accommodations ; and meals. Leadership Barry County is an opportuni-v ty to learn about the county to enhance leadjR ership skills for individual growth, organiza-' tional improvement and increased coinmu nity effectiveness while networking withj others in the community. Founded in 1990, Leadership Barry County is one of the state’s longest-runni^ rural leadership endeavors. The program is offered annually to individuals who live or work in Barry County seeking to becoriie better developed and networked leaders. Registration and additional information cap be found at the website leadershipbarrycounty.org. �Page 4 — Thursday, January 9, 2020 — The Hastings Banner In My Opinion see? Did you Historic clock counts down the days until spring What’s that I just read? Historic Charlton Park’s event season is {finished until spring, but the 310-acre rec­ reation area and trails are still open daily «feom 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Photo by Heather flblsma) 2- ' Ot be H od Do you remember? »Mid-century baby 1E Banner Jan .5,1950 'J Breaking a four-year reign by girls, dexter Harold Tobias became Barry bounty’s first baby of the year in 1950 when he made his appearance at Pennock Hospital at 2:14 a.m. Jan. 1. Dexter, a fine healthy lad $ho checked in early to start the half­ century with a hearty cry, is the son of Mr. Shd Mrs. Harold Tobias, who reside at 636 fe. Grand St. He weighed an even 7 pounds dt birth. Dexter’s father is 20 years old and was elated over the birth of his son, but a bit Worried over the future since he is looking for employment. He had been working at a ¥4rm in Fennville until mid-December. Harold is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur Tobias of Route 4, Hastings. Dexter’s ifiother, who was Melvina Hotchkiss, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Hotchkiss of Hastings. She is 18 and attended Hastings High School. Harold attended the Striker School and spent 5 Vi months in the Army, entering in December 1947. gr cs iQ -A bf • Have you met? gn Joe Shaver, 84, of Hastings, leads a sim­ ple life, repairing clocks, delivering newspa­ pers, painting scenes from all over Michigan and taking care of his wife, Margaret. Life was not always so simple, or even expected. He was bom Joseph John Shaver June 16, 1935, in Buffalo, N.Y. He was premature. His parents, Albert and Beatrice “Bea” Shaver were, he said, prepared for the possi­ bility of him not surviving. “They gave me last rites and put me in a dresser drawer. That was my bed. And my dad would ask ‘Hey Bea, where’s Joey?’ and she would say to him ‘I think he’s in the third drawer down, I’m not sure,”’ Shaver said with a wink. “That last part isn’t true. But the first part is.” He was one of five children. His brother Albert Jr., 11 months older than Joe, died four years ago. Shaver has two sisters, Donna, 82, and Catherine, 81. The youngest sibling, Charles, died at age 11 after suffering from muscular dystrophy. The family moved in 1948 from New York to Nashville where they had a farm just north of M-79 on Devine Road. Eventually the family moved to Hastings and Shaver and his siblings began attending school here in 1949. He graduated from Hastings High School in 1953. Shaver joined the U.S. Army in 1955. He was assigned to the 509th Tank Battalion and held the rank of E4/Specialist. He was honor­ ably discharged in 1957 and married his high school sweetheart, Margaret Elaine Zimmerman Sept. 19,1957. They have three children: Deborah Lee Anders, 61, of Delton; Barbara, 59, of Hastings; and Joseph Jr. “Jay,” 57, of Seattle. Shaver took a series of business manage­ ment classes at Grand Rapids Community College in the late 1950s. Early in his career, he and his family moved to Alabama for a job, but returned to Barry County soon after. He worked at Bradford White in Middleville for nine years and at Miller Metal Products in Grand Rapids for seven. By 1977, he decided to work for himself. He built a business painting automobile parts, mostly, keeping up with regulations and adding locations as needed Eventually, wavered after a stroke, so the two stay pretty close to home. Shaver dedicates himself to Margaret, his family and his customers. For his ingenuity, perseverance, and love of family and community, Joe Shaver is this week’s Banner Bright Light. Joe Shaver he said, he was worth about $4.6 million. Margaret described her husband as “very trusting. He was never greedy, and he was always such a hard worker. He was good to all his workers, and, if someone needed help, he did his best to give it.” In 1988, Shaver said he was advised to make a business decision that cost him his fortune. He paid his debts and walked away from the automotive industry forever. He and Margaret had already been dabbling with antiques for a few years and started doing it full-time. That’s how he got into fixing clocks. “I had bought one at an auction and found I could fix them,” Shaver said. “I also found that antique clocks have a really good profit margin, if you know what you’re looking for.” So, they retreated into a quiet life of paint­ ing, repairing clocks, dealing in antiques, meditating and delivering newspapers each Saturday. In recent years, Margaret’s health has Favorite movie: “Old Yeller.” It’s just a good, inspirational movie. If I could build anything, it would be: A cedar-strip kayak. The design of those kay­ aks has been the same since the Eskimos started building them. I’d build it just to look at it. Best invention: Electricity. Just look at all it’s done for us. Favorite childhood memory: Sitting by the banks of Lake Erie watching the sludge from Bethlehem Steel Mill slide down into the lake and seeing the steam billow out of the lake with my brother, sisters and cousins at my uncle’s cabin. Best gift ever received: My family. Favorite historic period in time: The Civil War. The courage was tremendous from both sides. . If I could go anywhere in the world, it would be: Either Drummond Island up near the Upper Peninsula, or down to Fort Walton Beach, Fla., where the sand is as white as snow. Advice for a high school graduate: Wherever they wind up, they’ve got to be happy with what they’re doing. If they’re not happy, forget it. If they love what they’re doing, they’ll wind up being the best. Best advice ever received: Well, I will start with the advice I should have taken and didn’t: ‘Take the money and run.’ But the other piece of advice I’ve received that I’ll never forget is: ‘Don’t take life too seriously, it’s only temporary.’ Each week, the Banner profiles a person who makes the community shine. Do you know someone who should be featured because of volunteer work, fun-loving per­ sonality, for the stories he or she has to tell or any other reason? Send information to Newsroom, Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. “So, Doc, I do have this one issue I’m struggling with ...” is what I’m going to tell my therapist at our next session. “I’ve been a reader my whole life and a writer my entire working career, but lately I can’t remember things I’ve just read. “I read a paragraph and have to re-read it. I start the first few pages of a new book, set it down, then the next day have to start all over again to refresh my memory. So, what do you think, Doc? Is it early onset dementia or late onset attention deficit disorder?” I already know her answer. “I call it digital overload disorder; the research has been documenting it for over four years,” she’ll say. “Take a look at Martin Kutscher’s piece in Psychology Today or the summary of Nicholas Carr’s work in The Atlantic. If it’s any comfort to you, everybody’s getting it.” She’s right. Read the literature - re-read it if you must - and you’ll understand that the world today is in the midst of what Carr calls a “sea change in the way we read and think” due to the platform on which we receive more and more of our information: The internet. In his 2008 Atlantic article, “Is Google Making Us Stoopid?” Carr relates a telephone conversation with Bruce Friedman, a pathologist at the University of Michigan Medical School regarding how the internet had altered his mental habits. “I now have almost totally lost the ability to read and absorb a longish article on the web or in print,” Friedman told Carr, describ­ ing his thinking as having taken on a “stac­ cato” quality, reflecting the way he quickly scans short passages of text from many sources online. “I can’t read War and Peace anymore. I’ve lost the ability to do that. Even a blog post of more than three or four paragraphs is too much to absorb. I skim it.” Ongoing neurological and psychological studies will provide a more definitive picture of how internet use affects cognition, but we already know we have to teach our minds to read, unlike speech, which is genetically gifted. The means by which we learn to read or the variations we make in how we read specifically, online media - shape the brain’s neural circuits, including those that govern such cognitive functions as memory and the interpretation of visual and auditory stimuli. “We can expect,” Carr said, citing the work of Tufts University developmental psy­ chologist Maryanne Wolf, that, “the [neural] circuits woven by our use of the net will be different from those woven by our reading of books and other printed works.” This column in no way is meant to suggest that online technology is the evil of modem society. Far from it. My concern comes from the apparent effect that online reading has on our minds’ ability to engage in what these scientists call “deep reading” and how we are being re-programmed by the computers. I wonder, in this bottom-line-efficient, data-driven world, if the absence of contem­ plation, thoughtful pondering and critical analysis that comes from deep reading, could be the reason we’re so regretfully divided in society today. Deep reading allows deeper understanding - of issues and people. Deep reading challenges us to consider the view­ points of others with whom we may dis­ agree, it has the capacity to build an empathy that might lead to greater understanding, civil discourse and a view of others as being not so different from ourselves. The shallow reading of online communi­ cation also has altered once-revered tradi­ tions and philosophies. Public libraries, for instance, were once the repositories of all great literature, be it classic, modem or even Star Wars science fiction. Today, the library is far more than books: It’s alive with com­ puters, videos and DVD checkouts. It has become a meeting place for gamers, musi­ cians and adult activity classes. That’s all wonderful because it means public libraries have continued to be relevant in their communities. But, when libraries are built or renovated today, designers adamant­ ly advise not to build too many book shelves - lest all the empty space suggest the library was designed too big for the tax initiatives passed to build or update them. Society’s results-only focus also has What do you changed our mindset on college. There was once a day when a liberal arts education was considered the foundation of a well-rounded and full life. The pursuit of the arts, languag­ es and culture formed the basis of an essen­ tial and lifelong skill, “learning how to learn.” I’m very much in favor of and enthused by the current focus on job training and I’m personally aware of the deplorable costs of a traditional college education. But my con­ cern comes from apparently having thrown overboard the respect for - and pursuit of - a deeper knowledge that once came from an academically disciplined liberal arts educa­ tion. My question is, after people have jobs, after they’re finally engaged in the careers for which they trained, what will enrich their lives? Will they have an appreciation for great literature? Will they value the great music of the ages? Will they have the desire to know other people, languages and cul­ tures? Will they deep read? Online access also has eroded the oncegreat tradition of being able to listen. Where do people today hear the spoken word deliv­ ered in a public setting and in a way that allows for thought, personal reflection and subsequent engagement? Church sermons and homilies still exist, but church atten­ dance around the world continues to fall. Lectures are still part of college and high school instruction, but one high school teacher pointed out to me recently that, if students are to be engaged in a lesson, they first have to be “tricked” into hearing it by some kind of entertaining introduction. To be sure, even the internet promotes the spoken word through “TED Talks” and pod­ casts, but why are they not more popular? Why are they not being discussed? I even worry about live theater. Unless it’s a high school play or a small community perfor­ mance, the audience for community theaters around America tends to be older adults. Where is the next generation of theater patrons? Obviously, there is no going back, the Algorithm Monster is on the loose. Sergey Brin, co-founder of Google, has even talked about the company’s desire to one day wire its search engine directly to our brains. In a 2004 interview with Newsweek magazine, Brin said, “Certainly, if you had all the world’s information directly attached to your brain, or an artificial brain that was smarter than your brain, you’d be better off.” That, Carr said, suggests a growing belief that intelligence is the output of a mechanical process and not a place that allows for con­ templation. Some small, beginning steps of defense are available right now in Barry County. As it does every year, Hastings Public Library is offering its community meeting room as a closed-circuit television site for the high­ ly-acclaimed January Series lectures hosted by Calvin University. Fourteen lectures by world-leading thinkers in fields ranging from education to hunger to sports are view­ able here from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. each day. For those unable to attend, most lectures are archived and available on the Calvin University website - a positive use of the internet, by the way. “It provides us with an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of a number of issues,” Kristi Potter, January Series direc­ tor, said, “and it also challenges us to consid­ er viewpoints that may be different than the ones we hold.” Potter is personally most excited by the presentation Tuesday, Jan. 14, by Cathy O’Neil, a Harvard University math Ph.D., who’ll speak on “Weapons of Math Destruction: How Big Data Increases Inequality and Threatens Democracy.” The January Series is keeping alive deep-thinking; it promotes deep-reading with the interest that lectures create to learn more about the subjects presented. And best yet, the lectures are free - far cheaper than a therapist trying to help some­ one who can’t remember what he just read. Doug VanderLaan, Guest Columnist think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each weekby accessing ourwebsite,www.HastingsBanner. com. Results will be tabulated and reported along with a new question the following week. Last week: A new law prohibiting the sale of tobacco prod­ ucts to anyone under the age of 21 is now in effect in the U.S. Does that go far enough? Yes 75% No 25% For this week: The City of Battle Creek has banned use of hand­ held electronic devices while driving a vehicle. Do you think other cities or states should do the same to reduce accidents caused by distracted driv­ ers? □ Yes □ No �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 9, 2020 — Page 5 Distracted driving being enforced in Battle Creek ] Within the City of Battle Creek, it now is against the law to use a hand-held cellphone while driving for almost any reason, and police will use it as an educational tool, and can enforce it, according to a press release from the city. The city commission in February 2019 approved the new rules related to distracted driving, a change to the city’s uniform traffic code of the city’s ordinances. The ordinance prohibits the hand-held use of a cellphone while driving a vehicle. This includes scroll­ ing and typing on a phone, as well as speak­ ing. These rules are in effect within the bound­ aries of the City of Battle Creek. Crews have posted signs at entry points of the city, alert­ ing drivers to the local law. Police did not issue tickets related to the ordinance before staff installed the signs, which read “Local Law: No hand-held electronics use while driving.” A state law prohibits texting while driving, but the new city ordinance is more enforce­ able, Police Chief Jim Blocker said. It can be difficult to prove a driver was texting while driving, as opposed to scrolling through Facebook, or browsing the internet. The local law addresses a broader variety of activities that take drivers’ attention away from the road. Chief Blocker said he does not expect to issue an abundance of tickets related to the ordinance. “Although enforceable, we anticipate more educational opportunities than enforcement actions in this first year,” Blocker said earlier in 2019 “There is a shared responsibility on our part to get the message out, and this works well with the state law - that distracted driv­ ing is not safe driving.” Exceptions to the law are radio operators licensed by the Federal Communications Commission; police officers, fire department personnel, law enforcement officers and oth­ ers driving emergency vehicles while per­ forming their official jobs; and anyone report­ ing a traffic accident, medical emergency or serious road hazard. Battle Creek is the third Michigan city to create a distracted driving ordinance, joining Detroit and Troy. Michigan State Police data from 2017 attributed 8 percent of automobile crashes in Assyria Township OKs pay increase for elected officials Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Assyria Township is the least assessed, lowest taxed township in Barry County, according to township Supervisor Mike Timmons. “We primarily dig holes to bury people,” Timmons said during Monday’s board meet­ ing. “We facilitate voting and facilitate tax paying and that’s about it.” During the meeting, board members voted to increase the pay they receive as elected township officials. The changes were prompted by a national inflation rate of 1.9 percent, they said. Compared to the last fiscal year, the super­ visor will now make $7,830 annually, a $1,067 increase. The clerk will make $10,791, a $1,354 increase. The treasurer will make $12,270, a $1,479 increase. The two trustees will make $1,450, a $57 increase. These changes were made in the wake of a study done by former Barry County Commissioner Joyce Snow, who collected information on all the townships in the county and recently shared those findings with town­ ship officials. According to Snow’s study, compared to Assyria, last year Woodland Township was the next lowest for the supervisor’s pay rate, at $7,048.99, and for the trustee, at $1,114.20; but other elected officials - $13,756.18 for the clerk, $14,916.65 for the treasurer tracked higher. The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: •All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Galley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; U.S. mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Gary Peters, Democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510­ 2202, phone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room 720, 110 Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 233­ 9150. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1 -202-224-3121. The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 News and press releases: news@j-adgraphics.com •Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com Frederic Jacobs Publisher & CEO Hank Schuuring CFO Rebecca Pierce (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer (Sports Editor) Greg Chandler Taylor Owens ' " J be assessed, as well. Additional information can be found on the city’s website, battlecreekmi.gov. I I i PLANS, continued from page 1 for 128 N. Michigan Ave., Moore and Heyboer returned to Hastings to consider the possibilities at the new site. Based on Moore’s comments Monday, the Kendall Place group may be feeling even happier with the current cards in its hand. “It’s going to be more costly,” Moore said of relocating the project, especially since hoped-for funding at the Michigan Avenue site from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority will not be possible at the new location, “but it’s going to be a way better site for what we want to do.” Primarily, the new site will allow an increase of four additional housing units and room for parking, which was the failed linchpin in the plan rejected by the city council in August. Moore told planning commissioners Monday that project architects had come within three parking spaces of a 1:1 ratio between unit numbers and available parking spaces. Asked by planning commission Chair David Hatfield about the possibility of public, onsite parking along the streets bordering the proposed development, King replied that such parking “would be subject to the [city’s] parking ordinance that states no parking between 3 and 6 a.m. There is parking allowed on all those streets outside of those hours.” Moore also mentioned that Kendall Place planners had approached the county regarding availability of spaces in the lot of the Friend of the Court building on State Street and Broadway. Commissioners also had questions regarding the site’s topography, asking for possible thoughts on leveling off the property at its high point on Court Street to the west end of the property. That discussion then transitioned into how the project would be visually presented to neighbors, including the possible use of brick wall fronting or screens of some type. “I think what’s significant is how we transition from the commercial district on State Street to the residential neighborhoods bordering Court and Park streets,” Hatfield said. “I hope we can be open to some creativity in how that gets done.” Following up on Hatfield’s subsequent observation of the irony in the unfortunate circumstances surrounding Kendall Place’s inability to access MSHDA funding but how its project meets MSHDA objectives for new housing having access to public services, Moore used it to buttress his contention that the Kendall Place needs planning commission input. “What does that central business district look mean to you?” Moore asked. Planning Commission member John Resseguie laid down the mandate: “Just make sure it looks good in our downtown.” A local real estate investment group also may be making plans to dress up the area, but two principals of Par-Tee Real Estate LLC chose to keep their cards close to the vest Monday while requesting that the planning commission hold a public hearing on rezoning land adjacent to The Legacy at Hastings golf course on North Broadway. Though attorney Nathan Tagg carried under his arm what appeared to be site plans and offered to take questions froM » commissioners, none were posed. Tagg and : partner Tom Watson also deferred comme|t J on possible future plans as they departed,; citing the courtesy of meeting with neighbors > first, “before they start reading about changed ! in the newspaper.” £■ | Documents filed by Par-Tee Realty with 8 the city requesting a zoning change frogi } rural-suburban to rural-residential, specifically * identifies a portion of land on the northeast section of the property, running north along the current access drive off North Broadway. Currently owned by Flexfab Horizons Inc., | the property is identified in a $260,000 s purchase agreement made between Par-Tee »’ Real Estate and Flexfab Horizons and filed i with the rezoning paperwork. The agreement « is contingent upon Par-Tee receiving the ■ rezoning request from THE City As outlined by Tagg and Watson, the « rural-residential rezoning would allow future i hookup to city water and sewer. In making the J request, Par-Tee also noticed that four nearby ; privately owned homes and parcels are also | still zoned rural-suburban and also wou|d benefit from the opportunity to hook up to j city water and sewer if they were included in t the rezoning request. The planning commission scheduled a public hearing on the rezoning request as part of its next monthly meeting Feb. 3. The final development team, represented i by Mike Markey and Nicole Smith, also held | their cards close in asking for a one-year extension of a site plan review originally | made by the planning commission Feb. .4, ! 2019. Ravenna Holdings of Lansing had been planning townhome construction on property in the 600 block of East Woodlawn Avenue, After the commission approved the ; request, Hatfield noted to local representatives Markey and Smith that the one-year extension J is “the maximum we can approve. You need to understand that our hope is [the project] » moves along expeditiously.” J In other business, the planning { commission: ; • Held a public hearing, offered but * heard no public comments, and approved oaa ♦ 9-0 vote an amendment to the city code ■ changing the number of zoning board qf £ appeal members from six to five member^. j “After this, it goes to the city council forra first reading next Monday and a second ” reading on the last Monday in January^’ J Hatfield noted. J • Made changes to planning I commission bylaws described by Hatfield as * primarily housekeeping. Among the changes I approved was a directive to hold election of | officers at the first meeting of the new year, ' which was conducted as Monday’s meeting concluded. By unanimous motion and i approval, Hatfield was again appointed as I chairperson and Tom Maurer as vice- | chairperson. “I didn’t plan to accelerate ’ consideration to omit anyone else interested < in serving,” Hatfield said, noting the I immediate action necessitated by the approval J of the bylaw revisions moments earlier. “I ’ thank you for your confidence. It’s something I certainly enjoy doing, and I look forward tQ serving you all again in the new year.” jq ’ Will the Internet kill your free community paper? Did instant coffee kill coffee? New technologies change many things. But not everything. You may tweet, blog, surf, shop, or search online but you continue to read your free community newspaper. You just proved that. Readership of free community newspapers is now higher that paid daily papers and continues to grow. Rather than being replaced by “instant” media, your local free community newspaper has become an important part of our neighborhood. The reason, which sometimes is not heard because of all the noise about the Internet, is pretty obvious: your free community newspaper does what the Internet doesn’t. We promote connections at a local level. Free papers join readers and advertisers in ways digital media don’t. • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Ty Greenfield Mike Gilmore Chris Silverman Jennie Yonker Subscription Rates: $45 per year in Barry County • NEWSROOM * Trustee Eugene Waterbury proposed a pay increase that exceeded one based on inflation and, instead, based the hikes on the informa­ tion in Snow’s study. He said his recommen­ dation was made with the intention of bring­ ing Assyria Township in line with the amounts paid to other township officials in the county. “I’m not running again,” Waterbury said, “but, personally, I think all you guys need a pay raise.” During the discussion, the township board compared issues such as infrastructure and average hourly pay to employees in townships of similar sizes. Barry County Board of Commissioner Chairwoman Heather Wing, who attended and represents District 7, which includes Assyria Township, pointed out that, as chair­ woman of the county board, she makes $12,106. “But I only go there (to Hastings for county commission meetings) four times a month,” she said. The township also discussed its plan of action if a storm knock out power in Assyria Township for an extended period of time. “Last month I asked people to think about what we want to do if the power goes out,” Timmons said referring to other board mem­ bers. “We have a standby generator primarily to help support this community should stuff go bad.” He expressed his concern for those resi­ dents who don’t have generators. “What if a storm comes, and part of the township loses power for three or four days or more?” Timmons asked. “They don’t have water, they don’t have heat. Now lots of peo­ ple don’t have a generator.” “One of the primary problems with not having power in a non-horse driven society is we depend on electricity ^pr well water. And without the water we don’t drink, we dehy­ drate and die.” Timmons’ proposal to the board was that the township establish a plan that would allow township residents who don’t have generators to come to the township hall for heat and water during power outage situations. “If we lose power here, we have the ability to help people with a warming station and water,” he said. “But the question then remains: Who does what when? Timmons asked each board member to come up with a draft plan for a township response if a power outage occurs. “Then we can take all five of them and juxtapose them and see what we got,” he said. The next township meeting is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 3. Battle Creek to distracted driving. The fine for violating the ordinance is $100 for first offense and $200 for second or subse­ quent offenses. Additional costs or fees could $50 per year in adjoining counties $55 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box 188 Hastings, Ml 49058-0188 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, Ml 49058 In fact, the local content and power of your free paper makes advertising even more effective. We are the number one medium for driving purchases. That’s important in every product category. Including coffee. Free Papers JL Working for You �' Page 6 — Thursday, January 9, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Es Worship Together ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616-690­ 8609. HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1674 S. State Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 Phone 269-945­ 2285. Sunday morning service time: 10 a.m. with nursery and preschool available. FREEPORT BAPTIST CHURCH 380 County Line Rd., Freeport, MI 49325. (269) 760-1928. Pastor Ron. A traditional style of worship, no gimmicks, and friendly people welcome you to worship at "an old country church." Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Sunday Worship 11 a.m. Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study and Prayer 7p.m. Give us the pleasure of meeting you! LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. . GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852­ 1783. Sunday service 10am. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. HASTINGS HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 2920 S. M-37 Hwy. (M-37 at M-79) Pastor Kim Metzer. Phone 269-945-4995. hastingshopeumc.org hastingshopeumc@gmail. com. We welcome YOU to join us on Sunday Mornings at 10:30 for worship! Find Us On Facebook! hastingshopeumc. j' M : f PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. MCCALLUM UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH 5505 Otis Lake Rd., Delton, MI 49046. Phone: 269-623­ 8226. New pastor - Jerald Jones. Sunday Service: 10:31-11:46; Coffee Connection. Nursery, Children’s ministry. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIA INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-795­ 2370 and the rectory number is 269-948-9327. Our church website is www.samchurch. org. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 765, (corner of Milo Rd. &S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11:30am, Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 to 7:30 pm. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616-731-5194. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel­ chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF HASTINGS Sharing Jesus with our community & the world! 405 N. M-37 Hwy., Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. www.firstchurchhastings. org. 9 a.m. Classes and Gatherings for All ages; 9:45 a.m. Worship (Children’s Worship Offered); 10:45 a.m. Coffee Fellowship; 11:15 a.m. Coffee Talk with Pastor Dan. Follow us on Facebook. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Kathy Smith. Sunday Worship 9:15 am COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand St., Hastings. Pastor Ken Hale. Sunday School for adults and children 9: 45 a.m.; Sunday Service 11 a.m. Nursery provided. Call 269-945-9217. cbchastings. org. We are a small church, but we serve a mighty Lord. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH ” An Expression Of Who jesus Is To The World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy., P.O. Box 8, Hastings. Telephone 269­ 945-9121. Email hastfmc® gmail.com. Website: www..ha.sL ingsfreemethodistcom. Pastor GREEN STREET jj Brian Teed, Student Ministries Director, Emma Miller, Wor­ UNITED METHODIST ship Director, Martha Stoetzel. CHURCH 209 W. Green St., Hastings, Sundays: Nursery and tod­ MI 49058. Rev. Bryce dler (birth through age 3) care Feighner Office Phone: 269­ provided. SUNDAY MORN­ 945.9574. Email: office, ING FAMILY HOUR WEL­ greenstreetumc @ gmail.com. COMES ALL AGES AND Sunday, Schedule - The STAGES OF LIFE AT 9:30 Praise 9:30 a.m. ; The Word a.m. Deep Blue, Loving God, Loving Neighbor: Preschool 10 a.m.; The Table 10:30 a.m. age 3-5th Grade. Live: 6th-12th Nursery Care is available Grade. Adult Standard and through age 4; PreK-8th Adult Elective classes. Coffee grade Sunday School 10 a.m.; Talk: Fellowship Hall. Cookies Sunday School for Adults at at 10:05 a.m. Worship Service: 11 a.m. Upright Revolt 10:30 a.m. & Children's Youth Ministry (6th-12th Church age 4-4th grade dis­ grades) 5:30-7:30 p.m. FREE missed during service. Youth Community Meal every Group at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Tuesday at 5 p.m. Refer to Women's Bible Study at 6:30 Facebook for weather p.m. Thursday Bible Study at conditions. 10 a.m., 2nd Tues: Young Women’s Small Group at 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS Wednesday Mid-Week: Wom­ BAPTIST CHURCH en’s Bible Study at 6:30 p.m. 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Kid’s Club. For more informa­ Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. tion please contact the church. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; GRACE LUTHERAN 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; CHURCH Senior High Youth Group Discover God’s Grace with us! 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 Holy Communion Every Sunday! p.m. Wednesday, Family Jan. 12 - Worship services at 8 Night 6:30-8 p.m., AWANA a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Nursery (Children Kindergarten-5th available. Jan. 13 Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle Congregational Care Mtg. 3 School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Jan. 14 - Brothers of p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Grace 7 p.m. Pastor Ken Call Church Office 948­ Scheck II. pastorken@grace8004 for information on hastings.org. Location: 239 E. MITT (Mothers in Training North St., Hastings, 269-945­ Together), Sports Ministries, 9414 or 945-2645, fax 269­ www.graceQuilting, Ladies Bible Study. 945-2698. hastings.org. Facebook: Grace Lutheran Church-ELCA WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: H mks s Flexfob Fltorgtess MBfSMIlf MieWMpMt 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 James Bruce Williams 1301W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 WOODLAND, MI - J. Jerilee Hostetler, age 90, of Woodland, went to be with the Lord, Sunday, Jan. 5, 2020, surrounded by her loving family. She was bom to Lewis and Clara (Flory) Herzel on November 27, 1929 in Pennock Hospital in Hastings, during a snowstorm. On October 15, 1949 in Hastings at the Methodist Circuit Parsonage, Jerilee Herzel married James Hostetler. Jerilee enjoyed baking, canning, vegetable and flower gardening and reading. She worked for Michigan Bell as an operator and also as a clerk for Sears and Montgomery Ward catalog sales. She is survived by her children, Roger (Kathy) Hostetler, Rolland (Nancy) Hostetler, Julia (David) Bauman, Bruce (Patty) Hostetler, Brent (Betty) Hostetler, Lori (Mike) Feaster, Darlene (Doug Zeffer) Hostetler; 22 grandchildren, many great­ grandchildren, one great-great granddaughter. Also surviving are her sister, Ruthanne Kauffman, and her brother, Philip (Nancy) Herzel, sister-in-law, Elsie Hostetler and brother-in-law, Franklin Burgess. Preceding Jerilee in death were her parents; her husband, James; grandson, Brandon Hostetler and great granddaughter, Makayla Hostetler. Funeral services will be on Friday, Jan. 10, 2020, at 1 p.m. at the Nashville Baptist Church, 312 Phillips St., Nashville, MI 49073 with the family receiving people from 11 a.m. till time of service. Interment will take place at Warner Cemetery. The family welcomes memories and messages on their online guest book at www. koopsfc.com. Memorials may be to the Nashville Baptist Church and Elara Caring Hospice. Arrangements made by Koops Funeral Chapel, 935 4th Ave., Lake Odessa, MI 48849. Rauli John Frederick Aho WOODLAND, MI - Rauli John Frederick Aho, of Woodland, age 93, went to be with his Lord, Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2019. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Asta Aho; and brothers, Oliver and Wesley Aho. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 67 years, Violet Aho; children, Pamela Kingsbury and Karen Klop; grandchildren, Timothy Rothfuss, David Rothfuss, and Alexander Kingsbury; great­ grandchildren, Audrey and Levi Rothfuss; many nieces, nephews, and friends. Funeral services were held Saturday, Jan. 4, 2020 at Zion Lutheran Church, 6261 Velte Rd, Woodland, with Pastor Rebecca EbbSpeese officiating. Interment was at Woodland Memorial Park Cemetery. In honor of Rauli, contributions may be made to charity of choice. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guestbook online at www.koopsfc.com. HASTINGS, MI - Helen (Yurisich) Noteboom, age 80, of Hastings, went to be with our Lord Jesus Christ and his blessed mother, Mary, Queen of Heaven on December 30, 2019 at 3 p.m. (the hour of Divine Mercy), after a six-month battle with cancer. She is survived by her husband, James Noteboom; sons Terry (Brenda) Noteboom, Mark (Koleen) Noteboom, Robert Noteboom and daughter, Joan Smith; 20 grandchildren and 35 great-grandchildren; one sister, Sue Yurisich, and a brother, George Yurisich. Helen was bom on March 5, 1939 and married James on November 10, 1956. Helen had a great devotion to the sacred heart of Jesus and the immaculate heart of Mary. Helen’s greatest prayer was for her family, friends, and everyone she met to make it to Heaven. We will miss her as she was the spiritual adviser for our whole family and many, many others. Helen spent many years volunteering for Barry County Right to Life and Bethany Christian Services. Helen was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Steve Yurisich and Rose Hollister. We would like to thank all the family, friends and hospice for their prayers and support. Memorial contributions can be made to Barry County Right to Life. The funeral mass was held Monday, Jan. 6, 2020 at St. Rose of Lima Church, 805 S. Jefferson St., Hastings, with luncheon to follow. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, 328 S Broadway, Hastings. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. HASTINGS, MI - James Bruce Williams, age 75, of Hastings, passed away on December 26, 2019. James was born in Hastings, on July 6, 1944, the son of Lafayette and Sophia (Cooke) Williams. He was a 1962 graduate of Nashville High School (Maple Valley). James worked for General Motors for 32 years, retiring in the mid 90s. On May 31, 1962, James married Diane Lind, his wife of 57 years. In his early years, James enjoyed hunting and snowmobiling with family and friends. Throughout his life, he enjoyed tractor shows, camping and horse pulls. In his retirement years, he loved watching his grandchildren play sports and painting with his son. James was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Gene, Lafayette Jr., Dick, Edward, Walt, Lloyd, Larry, Theodore, Ronald and Clarence; sister, Charlene; father-in-law, Willard Lind, and grandson, Derek Williams. James is survived by his wife Diane Williams; mother-in-law, Fem Lind; children, Jim (Debbie) Williams, Bryan Williams, Mindy (Chad) Zimmerman; grandchildren, Lindsey, Chase, Tyler (Cindy), Carson, Dylan, Kylie and Dominik; brother, Mike (Helen) Williams, and sistersin-law, Darlene Wetter and Nuala Williams and many nieces and nephews. According to his wishes, a private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www.girrbachfuneralhome. net. JdcJee OdeMa Elaine Garlock The Lake Odessa Area Historical Society will meet tonight, Jan. 9, at 7 p.m. at the museum on Emerson Street. The topic of the evening is “The Wave” from 50 years ago. The 1970 bound copy of the newspaper will be featured with select topics chosen in advance. What were the trends? What was happening with the military back then? Which store had special sales? Who were the sports stars at the high school? Come and find out. Visitors and guests are always welcome. The Ionia County Genealogical Society will meet Saturday, Jan. 11, at 1 p.m. Society offices will be available in the morning to assist visitors with research for establishing Nevaeh Grace Fisher, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on Dec. 19, 2019 to Leighanne and Dylan Fisher of Nashville. Briella Jolee Kirby, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on Dec. 20, 2019 to Amy and Travis Kirby of Hastings. Carolynne Joy Marlette, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on Dec. 22, 2019 to Kaitlyn Marie and Colton James Marlette of Hastings. Graham Reagan Hammond, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on Dec. 23, 2019 to Hayley Bishop and Brett Hammond of Hastings. membership in First Families of Ionia county or Centennial membership for those whose ancestors were in this country by 1920. Bob’s Bam was a busy place New Year’s Day with music fans gathered for a shared meal and an afternoon of music. Each musician in turn had center stage with backup from the others. There were violins, guitars, dulcimer and more. Some were singers. Central United Methodist Church had an “unhanging of the greens” Sunday after the morning worship service. The respite program now takes place twice each month on Thursday afternoons, under the direction of Rita Douglas. River Onyx Elliott, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on Dec. 28, 2019 to Taylor Wright and Noah Elliott of Hastings. Avary Ann Allerding, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on Dec. 28, 2019 to Anna Marie Simmons and Alex Scott Allerding of Nashville. Juniper Adalynn, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on Dec. 29, 2019 to Ashley and Cody Hart of Nashville. Elliot Hall, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on Dec. 29,2019 to Amber Johnson and Caleb Hall of Woodland. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 9, 2020 — Pag^7 Gordon L. Mitchell Christine Dolores Anderson Daniel Merl Clemens BUSINESS BRIEFS DELTON, MI - Gordon Lynn Mitchell, age 73, of Delton, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2020. Gordon was bom on December 8, 1946 in Hillsdale, to Robert and Helen (Willison) Mitchell. Gordon was a 1965 graduate of Climax-Scotts High School. Following graduation, Gordon attended Moody Bible Institute before enlisting in the United States Army. He served his country faithfully for over 20 years in active duty and seven more as a reservist. During his time in the service, Gordon worked as a linguist, graduating from the Defense Language Institute mastering Hungarian and Korean. Gordon also attended Trinity Seminary and a seminary in Hawaii. In his free time, Gordon enjoyed woodworking and making handmade pens. He was a very skilled genealogist and taught classes in Hastings. Faith and music were extremely important to Gordon, he could often be found at local nursing homes conducting church services and singing with the residents. Gordon is survived by his brothers: Gary (Lynn) Mitchell, Gail (Marge) Mitchell, Jim (Gail) Mitchell, Roger (Pete Peterson) Mitchell, and Ross (Denise) Mitchell; brother-in-law, Don Allen; aunt, Vera Bostwick; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and loving extended family. Gordon was preceded in death by his parents, and sisters, Aneita Allen, and Carol Mitchell. Gordon’s family will receive friends on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2020 from 10 to 11 a.m. at Lakeside Baptist Church where his funeral service will be conducted at 11 a.m. Pastor Larry Hendershot officiating. Burial with military honors conducted by American Legion Post 45 will take place in East Hickory Comers Cemetery. Those who wish to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider the needs 'of the 51 Tardily/ 'Please - visit www. williamsgoresfuneral.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Gordon’s family. HASTINGS, MI - Christine Dolores Anderson, age 72, of Hastings, passed away on January 1, 2020. Christine was bom the youngest of the first triplets bom in Barry County on December 31, 1947 in Hastings, the daughter of Dale Richard and Lilah Dolores Sunday Hall. She was a 1966 graduate of Hastings High School. Christine worked at the Barry County Chamber of Commerce. On November 9, 1967, Christine married Mark Anderson, who preceded her in death. Christine enjoyed quilting, knitting and cross stitch. She was an avid reader and especially enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. Christine was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and triplet brother, Christopher Hall; sister, Judy Lenz, and brother-in-law, Jack Lenz. She is survived by her sons, Eric Anderson (Shawn Winters) and Thomas Anderson; triplet sister, Carole (Milton) Poulos; brother, Ron (Juanita) Hall; sister-in­ law, Cindy Hall; grandchildren, Natalie Anderson, Madalyn Anderson, Scott Mueller (pseudo-adopted son), former daughter-in­ law, Sherry Anderson, and Piper (her beloved Maltipoo). Visitation will be Friday, Jan. 17, 2020 from 10 to 11 a.m. with a service to follow at Hope United Methodist Church, 2920 M-37, Hastings, MI 49058. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Make A Wish Foundation (www.wish.org) 1702 E. Highland Ave., Suite 400, Phoenix, AZ 85016. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. HASTINGS, Ml - Daniel Merl Clemens, age 70, of Hastings, passed away on January 2, 2020. He was bom on December 1, 1949 in Hastings, the son of Claud and Doris (Clem) Clemens. Daniel was a 1967 graduate of Lakewood High School and attended Kellogg Community College and Ferris State University. He retired from General Motors, where he worked as an electrician for 32 years. Daniel proudly served his country in the Army during the Vietnam War, stationed in South Korea. On April 12, 1975, Daniel married Jacquelyn Munn. Daniel liked to hunt and fish, and he enjoyed going to the casino. Daniel is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his son, Jason (Jeannette) Clemens; granddaughter, Jaden Clemens; brothers, Edwin Truesdell, Steve Clemens, Leslie Strouse (Sally); sisters, Patricia Swihart and Anna (Richard) Preston, and many nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2020 at 4: p.m. with a visitation one-hour prior at Girrbach Funeral Home, 328 S Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. A luncheon will follow the funeral at Grace Brethren Bible Church, 600 Powell Rd, Hastings, MI 49058. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. “It’s very dangerous,” Pratt said. “This one, thankfully, kind of took care of itself. If that wasn’t the case, then who knows how this would have turned out.” Police realized what had happened with­ in minutes, but initially the resident did not know of a possible suspect. The investigation is ongoing, and the suspect may well be located outside Barry County, or even outside of Michigan, the chief said. “There are some strange things in this case,” Pratt said, who declined to elaborate. Hastings City Police are looking for information related to Saturday’s incident. If anyone has information they are encouraged to call their office at 269-945­ 5744, or the Silent Observer at 1-800-310­ 9031. In Michigan, the penalties for swatting resulting in serious injury or death can range from up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000. Pennock Hospital enacts visitor restrictions Officials at Spectrum Health Pennock Hospital in Hastings are joining other West Michigan hospitals in putting restrictions on visitors. Those who are ill are restricted from visiting friends or family members who are hospitalized, in an effort to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses. The Kent County Health Department Wednesday issued a press release announcing the restrictions. They affect all the major hos­ pitals in the Grand Rapids area, including Spectrum Health, as well as all of Spectrum’s regional hospitals, such as Pennock. “Michigan is among the hardest-hit states for respiratory illnesses this season, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,” Kent County Health Department spokesman Steve Kelso said in the release. “Respiratory illnesses, including RSV [respi­ ratory syncytial virus], can be especially dan­ gerous to the young, frail or elderly.” All visitors are expected to be healthy, and the hospitals are taking active steps to protect patients, staff and visitors. A healthy visitor is someone who does not have the following symptoms: Fever greater than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, cough, sore throat, runny nose or congestion, vomiting or diarrhea, and rash or draining sores. Only healthy visitors may visit patients in the hospitals or outpatient locations. Anyone with the above symptoms should consider a video visit with a provider, an appointment with his or her primary care phy­ sician or an urgent care visit. These restrictions are effective until further notice. The measures are designed to protect vulnerable patients, as well as staff members. The hospitals will continue to monitor the situation and stay in contact with clinical leaders at health systems across the state to collaboratively and effectively address the situation, Kelso said. Henee K. beautord SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Assistance available for small businesse Vonda Van Til Public Affairs Specialist According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, the 28.8 million small businesses in the United States represent 99.7 percent of all U.S. businesses, and employ 56.8 million people. Running a small business can be a 24/7 endeavor. Managing employees, inventory, scheduling, services, and marketing can be challenging. If you are a small business owner or you work for one, we can help make your life easier with our suite of services. Our services allow you to file W-2/W-2Cs online and verify your employees’ names and Social Security numbers against our records. If you run a business, make us your first stop at socialsecurity.gov/employer. It will save you valuable time when you heed information on W-2s, electronic filing, d verifying Social Security numbers. S all business owners can also take advantage-of our Business Services Online at socialsecurjty. gov/bso/bsowelcome .htm. You must register to use this free service, which also offers fast, free and secure online W-2 filing options to CPAs, enrolled agents, and individuals who process W-2s and W-2Cs. The publication socialsecurity.gov/pu|)s/ EN-05-I0034.pdf provides more informal on about electronic wage reporting. Vonda Van Til is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may wqite her do Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids MT 49525 or da email to vonda.vantil@ssd.gov. ? Radon test kits availabl for free this month Hastings Police seek information in ‘swatting’ case Taylor Owens Staff Writer Around 10 a.m. Saturday morning an anonymous caller told Hastings City Police he had shot his parents and was holding his brother hostage. The caller, who sounded to police like a male and a teenager who was using a blocked number, threatened to kill his brother, and gave police an address in the 600 block of South Michigan Avenue. Police rushed to the scene, but as they arrived, the resident came outside, wonder­ ing what was going on. There had been no shooting. Hastings Police Chief Jeff Pratt said the resident was a target of the city’s first “swatting” case. The term refers to a crime that usually starts from some sort of internet dispute, often in an online video game. A false emer­ gency call is made from a blocked number in an attempt to get police, particularly SWAT teams, to raid the victim’s house. Hastings Mutual names new senior VP of operations Hastings Mutual Insurance Company announced that Renee R. Beauford has been promoted to senior vice president of opera­ tions. Since joining Hastings Mutual in 2007, she has held multiple leadership positions within the organization. In her new role, Beauford will assume responsibility for marketing, while retaining her existing responsibilities for claim, product development and actuary. A seasoned professional in the property casualty industry, Beauford has nearly 30 years of experience in the insurance business. She began her career as a claim adjuster for a national carrier and held a variety of positions of increasing responsibility prior to joining Hastings Mutual. Beauford’s insurance designations include AIC and SCLA. She received a bachelor of science in management degree from Purdue University. She currently serves on the board of Compensation Advisory Organization of Michigan and participates in several commu­ nity and industry organizations. Nears to celebrate 50th wedding anniversary Keith and Ellen Near will be celebrating their 50th anniversary on Jan. 17. They were united in marriage on Jan. 17, 1970 at United Brethren Church in Freeport, Mich. Their children include Jennifer and Chad Sprik and family of Cadillac, and Angela and Paul Goorman of Holland. They have two grandchildren. To send them a card, please mail to 2809 Lower Lake Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Friday, Jan. 10 - preschool story time, 10:30-11 a.m.; January Series: Replenish: Virtuous Cycle of Water and Prosperity, 12:30-1:30 p.m.; teen advisory board meet­ ing, 4-5 p.m. Monday, Jan. 13 - January Series: The Coddling of the American Mind, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14 - toddler time, 10:30-11 a.m.; January Series: Weapons of Math Destruction, How Big Data Increases Inequality and Threatens Democracy, 12:30­ 1:30 p.m.; mahjong club, 5:30 p.m.; chess club, 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15 - January Series: Our Towns: A 100,000 Mile Journey into the Heart of America, 12:30-1:30 p.m.; acoustic jam session, 5-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16 - Baby Cafe, 10 a.m.noon; January Series: 5 Browns in Concert, 12:30-1:30 p.m.; Novel Ideas Book Club dis­ cusses “Life in a Jar, the Irena Sendler Project,” 12:20-2 p.m.; Movie Memories and Milestones watches 1953 film starring Alan Ladd and Jean Arthur, 5 p.m. More information about these and other events is available by calling the library, 269­ 945-4263. Radon can’t be seen, smelled, or tasted, but high levels of radon gas may build up in resi­ dents’ homes, increasing their risk of lung cancer. Fortunately, testing is easy and high radon levels can be lowered. This month, Radon Action Month, BarryEaton District Health Department is offering free radon test kits. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of radi­ um. Radium, in turn, is a natural decay prod­ uct of uranium. Both radium and uranium are found in almost any kind of soil and rock, often in very small amounts. Radon moves up through the soil and enters buildings through cracks and openings in the foundation, floor, or walls, including at floor/wall joints, sump openings, and other openings caused by plumbing, wir­ ing, or ductwork. Outdoors, radon is diluted by the atmo­ sphere to safe levels. However, radon can concentrate in indoor air and reach unhealthy levels. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking, and is the No. 1 cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. It is important for residents to know their home’s radon level and to take action to lower it if it’s too high. According to a Michigan survey, high lev­ els of radon are expected in one out of eight [THIS Bad [for SALE ★Kantar Millward Brown, Feb. 2018 Michigan homes. In some counties, as m|ny as 45 percent of the homes have had radon levels above the Environmental Protection Agency’s recommended action level. The only way to know if a home has high ra|on levels is to test it. Easy, do-it-yourself radon test kits jare available for free to residents of Barry and Eaton counties this month. There is a limit of one kit per address. Kits are available op a first-come, first-serve basis, and supplies !are limited. After using it, the kit should be sen to the lab for testing. More information about radon can be found on the website barryeatonhealth.org/healt iyhomes or call or visit the health departmen : in Hastings or Charlotte. Residents may pick up a free kit at various locations, including: • Hastings, health department at 330 W. Woodlawn Ave., 269-945-9516 • Delton, Delton District Library, 330 N. Grove St., 269-623-8040 • Bellevue, Riverside Cafe, 420 E. Capital Ave., 269-763-9481 • Charlotte, health department at 1033 Healthcare Drive, (517) 541 -2615 । • Lansing, Delta Township Hall, Assessing Department, 7710 W. Saginaw Highway, 517­ 323-8520 । More than 50% of adults have a positive perception of ads in print newspapers.* Want to be next to trusted content? Place your ad in this newspaper and a network of newspapers in the state! Call this paper or 800-227-7636 www.cnaads.com Jeffrey A. Keessen, AIF® (269) 948-9969 525 W. Apple St. Hastings, MI 49058 www.watersedgefinancial.com Taking care of what's important to you so that you can focus on what matters most to you Jeffrey A. Keessen AIF® i Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC �Page 8 — Thursday, January 9, 2020 — The Hastings Banner I itflHII....... . Hl ...... WW—.1 M ■ I ........... ............ . ........................................................................................................................................... LEGAL NOTICES i—........ ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... NOTICE TO THE RESIDENTS OF BARRY COUNTY Notice is hereby given that the Barry County Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing for the following: I Case Number: SP-1-2020 - Brandon Orman (Applicant); Randy Ellwood (Property Owner) Location: 5675 Bivens Road, Nashville, in Sec­ tion 6 of Maple Grove Township. iPurpose: Requesting a special use permit to op­ erate a junkyard-salvage operation per Article 23, Section 2342 in the RR (Rural Residential) zoning diWict. ■MEETINQ DATE: January 27, 2020.11M& 7:00 PM. PLACE: Tyden Center, Community Room, 121 South Church Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 .Site inspections of the above described property । be completed by the Planning Commission J members before the hearing. Interested persons » desiring to present their views upon an appeal, either j verbally or in writing, will be given the opportunity to j: beieard at the above mentioned place and time. I Any written response may be mailed to the actress listed below, faxed to (269) 948-4820, or errfailed to Barry County Planning Director James MbManus at imcmanus@barrycounty.org. The special use application is available for public inspection at the Barry County Planning Department, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, duflhg the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Friday. Please call the Barry County Planning Department at (26g) 945-1290 for further information. The County of Barry will provide necessary auxilary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon ten (10) days notice to the County of Barry. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Barry by writing or call the following: Michael Brown, County Administrator, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, (269) 1^1284. ' Pamela A. Palmer, Barry County Clerk 135371 XlH i ■v: ^ Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to MCL 600.3212, that the following will be foreclosed by a.sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of ’?tneM, at public auction at the place of holding the Circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on .dWiuary 30, 2020: kmName(s) of the mbrtgagor(s): Teresa M Boulter Charles Boulter, wife and husband . Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/or assigns ‘Foreclosing Assignee (if any): New Residential Mortgage, LLC Date of Mortgage: September 15, 2005 I*- Date of Mortgage Recording: September 26, | 2005 ( Amount claimed due on date of notice: $82,389.31 | Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Beginning at a point on the North and South 1/4 line of Section 35, Town 4 North, Range 9 West, distant South 330 feet from the center J/4,post of said Section 35, thence East 660 feet parallel with the East and West line of said Section 35, thence South 410 feet, thence West 660 feet to Hthe North and South 1/4 line of said Section, thence Np^th 410 feet to the place of beginning. 0. vjhe redemption period shall be 6 months from the dgte of such sale, unless determined abandoned in t.a€9'prdance with MCLA 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as .pefjned by MCL 600.3240(16). "if the property is sold at foreclosure sale under ' ’chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, ^puj-suant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held ^aponsible to the person who buys the property at 3,h"e mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage hplder for damaging the property during the Redemption period. ... this notice is from a debt collector. ' pate of notice: January 2, 2020 * Trott Law, P.C. ^5516 ;jQ1-02)(01-23) 134892 abee ■ riu’dv Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, LtHat the following mortgage will be foreclosed by .aatsale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of Mbem, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder Jor cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding strip, circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly ratsJ:OO PM, on February 06, 2020. The amount due ^ph^fhe mortgage may be greater on the day of the apgle. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ^ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is /Encouraged to contact the county register of deeds Totfice or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE: ’-'Mbrtgagor(s): John Anes, an unmarried man Original ^Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration ?‘8^§tems, Inc. (“MERS”), solely as nominee for Uender and lender s successors and assigns Date of ^mortgage: August 4, 2015 Recorded on August 20, ■■/W5, in Document No. 2015-008134, Foreclosing /Assignee (if any): Quicken Loans Inc. Amount claimed to be due at the date hereof: One Hundred tFive Thousand Two Hundred Four and 79/100 ^Dollars ($105,204.79) Mortgaged premises: Situated .* in Barry County, and described as: Commencing .at fhe Northwest corner of Lot 1152 of the City of /Hastings; thence North 4 rods; thence East 12 ! "rods; thence South 4 rods; thence East 12 rods to trip place of beginning, Barry County, Michigan, ^fedfnmonly known as 733 S Church St, Hastings, Ml M9058 The redemption period will be 6 months from nthM date of such sale, unless abandoned under MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period ovyill be 30 days from the date of such sale, or 15 days from the MCL 600.3241 a(b) notice, whichever lii^ Jater; or unless extinguished pursuant to MCL ^600.3238. If the above referenced property is sold j$t,a foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of Act 236 r.g£-1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will ^pejield responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, ' please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. Quicken Loans Inc. Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman P.C. 23938 Research Dr, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, Ml 48335 248.539.7400 1406273 (01-09)(01-30) 135461 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to MCL 600.3212, that the following will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public auction at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 23, 2020: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Andrew Richardson, a single man Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC Date of Mortgage: January 28, 2015 Date of Mortgage Recording: February 10, 2015 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $51,846.31 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Commencing on the North section line of Section 1, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, at the intersection of Sager Road and Cedar Creek Road for the place of beginning; thence West on said Section line 500 feet; thence South 308 feet; thence East 500 feet to the Centerline of Cedar Creek Road; thence Northerly along the Centerline of Cedar Creek Road 308 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: December 26, 2019 Trott Law, PC. 1404966 (12-26)(01-16) 134484 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to MCL 600.3212, that the following will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public auction at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 16, 2020: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Adam R. Broxholm, a married man Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/ or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): AmeriFirst Financial Corporation Date of Mortgage: September 16, 2014 Date of Mortgage Recording: September 19, 2014 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $130,526.75 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Lots 40 and 41, Crystal Lake Estates Plat, according to the plat thereof as recorded in Liber 5, Page 73 of Plats, Barry County Records. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241 a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: December 19, 2019 Trott Law, P.C. 1404681 (12-19)(01‘09) 134302 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to MCL 600.3212, that the following will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public auction at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 23, 2020: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Eric Morgan, a married man Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/or assigns • ' Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Caliber Home Loans, Inc. Date of Mortgage: December 26, 2017 Date of Mortgage Recording: January 4, 2018 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $280,056.35 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Commencing at a point on the South line of Section 33, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, distant South 89 degrees 34 minutes 35 seconds East 1992.93 feet from the Southwest corner of said Section; thence North 2 degrees 05 minutes 45 seconds East 1000.50 feet; thence South 89 degrees 51 minutes 45 seconds East 664.67 feet to the North and South 1/4 line of said Section 33; thence South 2 degrees 06 minutes 40 seconds West, along said North and South 1/4 line 1003.78 feet to the South 1/4 post of said Section; thence North 89 degrees 34 minutes 45 seconds West along said South Section line 664.31 feet to the place of beginning. Subject to an easement over the southerly 33 feet thereof for public highway purposes. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241 a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: December 26, 2019 Trott Law, P.C. 1405149 (12-26)(01-16) 134552 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Trust In the matter of Carolyn G. Coleman Trust. Date of birth: 12-21-1927. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Carolyn G. Coleman, died 12-15-2019, leaving the above Trust in full force and effect. Creditors of the decedent or against the Trust are notified that all claims against the decedent or trust will be forever barred unless presented to David E. Coleman within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 1-9-2020 David E. Coleman 1730 Iroquois Trail Hastings, Ml 49058 269-838-5717 135147 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement. Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on February 06, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE: Mortgagors): Denton W. Kemp and Cindy S. Kemp, husband and wife Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (“MERS”), solely as nominee for lender and lender s successors and assigns Date of mortgage: November 23, 2018 Recorded on November 28, 2018 , Instrument 2018-011472 Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Quicken Loans Inc. Amount claimed to be due at the date hereof: One Hundred Two Thousand Eight Hundred Sixty-Four and 83/100 Dollars ($102,864.83) Mortgaged premises: Situated in Barry County, and described as: Commencing 1,094 feet South of the Northwest corner of Section 22, Town 4 North, Range 7 West for point of beginning; thence East 198 feet; thence South 110.5 feet; thence West 198 feet; thence North 110.5 feet to point of beginning. Commonly known as 215 S Main St, Woodland, Ml 48897 The redemption period will be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless abandoned under MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of such sale, or 15 days from the MCL 600.3241 a(b) notice, whichever is later; or unless extinguished pursuant to MCL 600.3238. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of Act 236 of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. Quicken Loans Inc. Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman RC. 23938 Research Dr, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, Ml 48335 248.539.7400 1406265 (01 -09)(01 -30) 135459 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement. > Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on February 06, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE: Mortgagors): Raymond Featherstone, a married man and Jeri Featherstone, his wife Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (“MERS”), solely as nominee for lender and lenders successors and assigns Date of mortgage: November 22,2013 Recorded on December 10,2013, Instrument 2013-014496 Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC Amount claimed to be due at the date hereof: One Hundred Fifty-Nine Thousand Three Hundred Forty-Seven and 80/100 Dollars ($159,347.80) Mortgaged premises: Situated in Barry County, and described as: Parcel 1: Beginning on the North and South 1/4 line, South 957.78 feet from the North 1/4 post of Section 33, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, said place of beginning also being South, 297.08 feet from the Northeast corner of the South 1/2 of the North 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of said Section 33; thence South 264.02 feet along said North and South 1/4 line; thence North 89 degrees 43 minutes 52 seconds West, 198.00 feet parallel with the East and West 1/4 line of said Section 33; thence North 264.02 feet parallel with said North and South 1/4 line; thence South 89 degrees 43 minutes 52 seconds East, 198.00 feet, parallel with said East and West 1/4 line to the place of beginning. Reserving the Easterly 33 feet for public road right of way. Parcel 2: Beginning on the North and South 1/4 line, South 1221.82 feet from the North 1/4 post of Section 33, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, said place of beginning also being South 561.10 feet from the Northeast corner of the South 1/2 of the North 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of said Section 33; thence South 264.02 feet along said North and South 1/4 line; thence North 89 degrees 43 minutes 52 seconds West 198.00 feet parallel with the East and West 1/4 line of said Section 33; thence North 264.02 feet parallel with said North and South 1/4 line; thence South 89 degrees 43 minutes 52 seconds East 198.00 feet parallel with said East and West 1/4 line to the place of beginning. Commonly known as 15212 Kellogg School Rd, Hickory Corners, Ml 49060 The redemption period will be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless abandoned under MCL 600.3241 a, in which case the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of such sale, or 15 days from the MCL 600.3241 a(b) notice, whichever is later; or unless extinguished pursuant to MCL 600.3238. If the above referenced property is sold at a fcireclosure sale under Chapter 32 of Act 236 of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman P.C. 23938 Research Dr, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, Ml 48335 248.539.7400 1406272 (01 -09)(01 -30) 135457 Financial FOCUS Provided by the Barry County offices of Edward Jones Member SIPC Andrew Cove, AAMS® 421 W. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings, Mi 49058 (269) 945-3553 Jim Lundin 2169 W. M-43-Hwy., Suite A Hastings, Ml 49058 (269)818-0423 Protect yourself against long­ term care costs If you’re fortunate, you’ll live independently and in good health throughout your retirement years. However, if you ever needed some type of long-term care, such as a stay in a nursing home, would you be financially prepared? To answer this question, you may want to evaluate two variables: your likelihood of needing long­ term care and the cost of such care. Consider the following: • Someone turning age 65 today has an almost 70% chance of eventually needing some type of long­ term care, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. • The average cost for a private room in a nursing home is about $100,000 per year, while a home health aide costs about $50,000 per year, according to Genworth, an insurance company. Clearly, these numbers are worth thinking about. If you needed several years of long-term care, the expense could seriously erode your savings and investments. And keep in mind that Medicare typically pays only a small percentage of long-term care costs. Therefore, you may want to evaluate the following options for meeting these expenses: • Self-insure - You could “self-insure” against long­ term care expenses by designating some of your investment portfolio for this purpose. However, as the above numbers suggest, you’d likely have to put away a lot of money before you felt you were truly protected. This could be especially difficult, given the need to save and invest for the other expenses associated with retirement. • Long-term care insurance - When you purchase long-term care insurance, you are essentially transferring the risk of paying for long-term care from yourself to an insurance company. Some policies pay long-term care costs for a set number of years, while others cover you for life. You can also choose optional features, such as benefits that increase with inflation. And most long-term care policies have a waiting period between 0 and 90 days, or longer, before benefits kick in. You’ll want to shop around for a policy that offers the combination of features you think best meet your needs. Also, you’ll want an insurer that has demonstrated strength and stability, as measured by independent rating agencies. Here’s one final point to keep in mind: Long-term care premiums get more expensive as you get older, so if you’re interested in this type of coverage, don’t wait too long to compare policies. • Hybrid policy - A “hybrid” policy, such as life insurance with a long­ term care/chronic illness rider, combines long-term care benefits with those : offered by a traditional life insurance policy. So, if you ' were to buy a hybrid policy and you never needed long­ term care, your policy would pay a death benefit to the beneficiary you’ve named. Conversely, if you ever do need long-term care, your policy will pay benefits toward those expenses. And the amount of money available for long-term care can exceed the death benefit significantly. Hybrid ■ policies can vary greatly in several ways, so, again, you’ll need to do some research before choosing s appropriate coverage. Ultimately, you may decide you’re willing to take the chance of never 1 needing any type of long­ term care. But if you think that’s a risk you’d rather not take, then explore all your coverage options carefully. There’s no one right answer for everyone - but there’s almost certainly one for you. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Janes Financial Advisor Baby talk Dr. Universe: Do babies have ways of communicating? Jalen, 12, North Carolina Dear Jalen, Babies can communicate in a few differ­ ent ways. For the most part, they use their emotions. Humans come into the world crying, but that’s actually a good thing. In a way, babies start communicating from the moment they are bom. Of course, it can be hard for care­ givers to know exactly what a baby means with all of those cries. It takes some time, but caregivers can learn to pick up on what different cries are signaling. For example, a baby might be hungry, need a diaper change or just be uncomfortable. After babies are bom, many will be given a test to see how they react to things in their environment. A baby might even get a gen­ tle pinch or have some boogers softly sucked out their nose to see how they respond. The person giving the test, usually a doc­ tor, will look to see if the baby pulls away, sneezes, coughs or twists his or her face into an expression we call a grimace. Still, a cry or grimace doesn’t always mean there is a problem. Sometimes babies will cry because they are having a hard time settling down, but if left alone, will figure out how to soothe themselves, which is a good skill. They might suck on their thumbs or distract themselves. I learned a lot from my friend Masha Gartstein, a professor of psychology at Washington State University, about how babies use emotion to communicate. She said crying is just one way babies commu­ nicate. After two or three months, babies will usually start to smile with a purpose. “It’s an amazing thing,” Gartstein said. “That becomes another way of communi­ cating.” It’s also a nice relief for caregivers, or a baby’s brothers and sisters, especially after hearing lots of crying for a few months., Babies and caregivers can now both com­ municate joy or happiness. At about 6 months old, babies usually can respond to their own names. But they still can’t talk like kids and grown-ups. Instead, they might use gestures or point at things to communicate ideas to others, j They might use their hands, fingers, or bodr ies to send out a message like, “I want that toy!” or “Look what I did!” When a baby is about 12 months old, they will start to put together sounds that make up words like “mama” or “dada.” All the while, the baby’s personality is developing, too. Gartstein also told me about something she studies called temperament. It’s a com­ bination of the emotions and behaviors we each display that are reactions to our expe­ riences or attempts to regulate these reac­ tions. Perhaps, you are a very calm person or maybe you get easily stressed and angry. These kinds of temperaments often begin when we are babies. In Gartstein’s lab, she sees lots of differ­ ent expressions and emotions on the faces of babies who visit with their families. The babies even wear little swim cap-like hats with little electrodes that help the research­ ers learn about their brain activity. Babies don’t just have the ability to com­ municate, but sometimes they can help us do science and learn about human nature. Dr. Universe Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University's resident scientist and writer at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu or visit her website, askdruniverse.com. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 9, 2020 — Newspaperman recounted a winter in the local wilderness Conclusion This is the fourth and final segment of a “Fresh Out of the Attic” Banner series reprinted from the mid-1900s featuring recollections by Darius Burgess Cook. On the advice of his doctor, Cook (no relation to the Barry County newspapering family of the same name) and able-bodied frontiersman James “Captain” Rhodes spent the winter of 1839-40 just west of the Barry County line. Cook was 24 at the time. He’d been working at the Kalamazoo Gazette and was in failing health. So, his doctor sent him to the woods to heal. The forests were thick and teeming with wildlife, including packs of wolves that howled each night. Most neighbors were miles away. Dwellings were small, crude huts. The two men frequently encountered Native Americans and with them overcame misunderstandings, shared cultures and helped each other. Cook later settled in Niles, started a family, and began a newspaper business that would continue for three more generations. He’d kept a diary of that wilderness experience and nearly 50 years later, decided to publish his book, Six Months Among Indians, (For unexplained reasons, Cook wrote of himself in plural, so the words we, our and us sometimes need to be interpreted as I, my and me. In this first anecdote, for example, he was alone, but writes as if he had a companion.) The story continues with Rhodes at the “hunter’s lodge” and Cook out checking traps: On nearing our wolf traps, we saw the back of an immense animal curve up behind the large log where one was set. We paused for a survey. Moving cautiously around the butt of the log, we were discovered and the monster made a fearful leap for us, but he was fast in the trap, the chain of which was attached to a small tree, and although he struggled with great power to reach us, he could not. A bullet finished him in a few seconds. What it was we could not tell. Its large round head and paws, sharp and immense claws showed it was of the cat species. It proved to be a large lynx. We strung him up to a tree while we proceeded to our other traps down the river but found little of importance. Returning, a solitary wolf had been attracted by the blood, but passed on. It was a hard drag through the snow to the lodge, but we reached there about 4 p.m. and found the Captain in a profound sleep such as weary hunters enjoy. We quietly slipped off the furs and secreted outside in the dugout. Still he was in a deep sleep with his rifle by his side. This, too, was secreted. The lynx was then carefully placed by his side. We climbed up on the roof where we could look down unseen. It was a sight never to be forgotten. His face was toward the logs and at his back lay the monster animal. Fearing he might sleep until sundown, we set up an Indian yell that aroused him. He grabbed for his rifle, and struck against the lynx. He leaped up in an instant, looked for his rifle, but contented himself with his revolvers. He satisfied himself the animal was dead and rolled it off the bed. The furs and his rifle were gone. Someone had stolen them during his sleep, and he went searching for a trail. While doing this we slipped inside the cabin. It was some time before he returned and found us preparing supper. We questioned him closely relative to what had been going on. He admitted having fallen asleep, that the furs and rifle were stolen. He could give no information relative to the mysterious appearance of the animal. On searching, everything was soon found, and he was forcibly reminded that he was a very careless watchman. We were sipping tea borrowed from Chambers, when we heard the Indians coming with a yell that drowned the voice of old wolf, Jim, as we called him, who always howled at twilight and was answered by many wolves in various places. They rode up to our door and dismounted, bringing in provisions, tobacco, pipes, far more than they had stolen. We were prepared for them as much as possible. Mrs. Chambers [wife of the nearest neighbor] had supplied us with bread. Rabbits and venison were in readiness on a table made of split pine, supported by shingle blocks. Their ponies were turned loose but would scarcely leave the tree tops near us. ( fl look back at the stories and columns on local history In the Hastings Banner TURNING J BACK THE L PAGES <<J There was a jolly time at this feast. Sango-far was the principal talker. He was full of story of his adventures and often would express his sorrow at what he did to us. But it was all settled, and we all sat before the blazing logs, smoking the pipe of peace until midnight, when all fell asleep with their furs around them. A yell in the morning brought up their ponies. “Captain, I am going to the Selkirk Mission today,” said we; “will be back in due season this evening ” An Indian pilot had tarried with us overnight and off we started. It was seven or eight miles; we struck a trail in about a mile. We reached the mission about 11 a.m. and were received by the Reverend with the greatest hospitality. This Mr. Selkirk was a former, and we believe, the first Episcopal minister stationed at Niles. He had in his charge about 140 Indians, old and young, whom he was educating, and they seemed in a prosperous condition. He treated us to a sumptuous dinner, and two hours were spent pleasantly. A number of the young men in his charge, as well as the old, took great interest, and it was his delight to teach them. We [Cook, alone] left for our lodge about 2 p.m., leaving our guide at the mission. We had no trouble in following our trail back until within a mile of camp, when another track interfered and for some distance followed ours. When we arrived to where ours was first struck, it was hard to tell which led to our lodge. By this we were led off, and darkness began to cast a deep shadow, and old Jim began to howl. The signal gun was fired, answered by ours. It was getting dark, and we began to think of a fire. Another gun convinced us that the Captain was coming to our rescue. Gun answered gun as the wolves gathered around. In the deep snow, our progress was slow. We heard the growl of a wolf at our rear. It was dark and gloomy. We grasped the limb of a small beech tree and leaped into its branches, and not too soon, for a big wolf was near us. We let off our rifle as near as possible in the darkness at the wolf, which was answered by the Captain with a yell, not 40 yards off. Soon a light was seen in the distance and as it drew near, hurrah answered hurrah with great cheer. During this time, wolves were all around but could not be seen. On the appearance of the torches, they fled, always fearing a fire in the night. This endeared the Captain to us more than ever, but he did nothing more than had been done to him on a previous occasion on a bitter cold night when he was treed by them half a mile out. There was not a night the wolves did not follow us to our lodge, as seen by their tracks in the morning. ... This was in February, the month when deer congregate, and on our return to our lodge, not less than 30 were seen in a drove [By 1889, when Cook’s book was published, whitetail deer populations had been decimated; such a large herd would have been unimaginable]. It was beautiful sight, so many deer with their white flags up, dashing through the forest. The Captain gave one of them a shot and brought him down and gave him to our benevolent friend, Mr. Chambers. Sen. Bizon meeting with constituents in Portland Sen. John Bizon, M.D., R-Battle Creek, will meet with voters in the district Monday, Jan.13. He will be at the Wagon Wheel American Grill, 7888 E. Grand River Ave. in Portland from 11 to 11:45 a.m. The informal visit is open to residents of the 19th Senate District to meet the senator, express their opinions or concerns about state government, or request assistance with a state issue. Bizon represents the 19th Senate District, which includes Barry, Calhoun and Ionia counties. The senator also may be contacted by tele­ phone, toll-free, 855-347-8019, or by email, SenJB izon @ senate .michigan .gov. Residents unable to attend the office hour may write to him at Sen. John Bizon, P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI 48909-7536. The Indian way of making maple sure is to cut into the tree with a hatchet and drive a sheet iron spout into the tree under the hack. The sap was caught in wooden troughs. When [the sap was] boiled down to a syrup, they would then strain it through deer’s hair, then make it into sugar and sell it to the whites. Straining it through hair would make the syrup look quite clear and improve the appearance of the sugar very much. Nothing of interest occurred for several days, and we had jolly times with the Indians, shooting at marks with rifles and arrows. It was great sport for the young bucks to shoot and beat us with arrows. They would hit a cent 50 feet away nearly every shot. They finally brought a young squaw who could beat all of them. She never sighted over the arrow, but would fix her eye on the mark and let the arrow without a miss. And that is where the Banner’s “Fresh out of the Attic” excerpts end, sometime in February 1840. Cook and “Captain” Rhodes IBS* O’lot D.B. Cook recalled firearm and archery contests with Native Americans in the winter of 1840. One especially impressive shooter was a young woman who could hit a target without sighting in a bow. (Six Months Among Indians) remained at their lodge until late April before returning to Kalamazoo. Cook later married, started a family and founded a newspaper business in Niles that would remain in his family for four generations, until the 1970s. He published his short book Six Months Among Indians in 1889, based on his memories and the diary he’d kept that winter in the wilderness. The book was dedicated to Rhodes, “the faithful and jolly companion, whose heart beat for the welfare of the whole human race, who was a steadfast friend, who knew no fear, and was ever ready to sacrifice himself for one he admired - to him, wherever he may be, this little history is respectfully dedicated.” He returned to the area in the 188Q;s, shocked at the unfamiliar landscape. A fey/ pf the Chambers children, by then in their $0$, were able to lead Cook to where the original Chamber’s dwelling had been, as well as> the site of the “hunter’s lodge,” his home for six months in the winter of 1839-40. Darius B. Cook died in 1901, age 86, and is buried in Niles. 711 ■ i/Wl j * id 11 VARNUM LLP Attorneys 260 E. Brown St., Suite 150 Birmingham, Michigan 48009 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE AND SALE THIS FIRM ISA DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. Default has occurred in the conditions of a mortgage (the “Mortgage”) made by William J. Cronk, mortgagor, to Union Bank, having its principal offices at 933 Fourth Avenue, Lake Odessa, Michigan, 48849, mortgagee, dated October 9, 2012, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Barry County, Michigan, on October 29, 2012 in Instrument No. 2012­ 006365. Because of the default, the undersigned has elected to declare the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage immediately due and payable. At the date of this notice there is claimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Twenty-Two Thousand Nine Hundred Twelve and 31/100 Dollars ($22,912.31). No suit or proceedings at law have been instituted to recover any part of the debt secured by the Mortgage. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay said amount with interest as provided in the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including attorney fees allowed by law, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vendue to the highest bidder at the Barry County Courthouse, 220 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan, the place of holding the Circuit Court within Barry County, Michigan, on Thursday, February 6, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. local time. Pursuant to Section 3240(12) of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, as amended, (MCLA 600.3240(12), the redemption period shall be one (1) year from the date of the foreclosure sale, unless the premises are determined to be abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of the sale. If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale under MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. The premises covered by said mortgage is commonly known as 3769 East M-79 Highway, situated in the Township of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, described as follows: A parcel of land in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 26, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 26; thence West 1224 feet to the place of beginning; thence North 00 degrees 21 minutes East 410.85 feet to the South right of way line of the New York Central Railroad; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes East 100 feet; thence South 00 degrees 21 minutes West 410.3 feet; thence West 100 feet to the place of beginning; except highway right of way. Also: A parcel of land in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 26, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, Hastings Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section; thence West 1324 feet to the place of beginning; thence North 00 degrees 21 minutes East 411.4 feet to the South right of way of New York Central right of way; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes East 100 feet; thence South 00 degrees 21 minutes West 410.85 feet; thence West 100 feet to the place of beginning; except highway right of way. PPN 08-06-026-019­ 00 Dated: January 9, 2020 Union Bank, Mortgagee Varnum LLP Michael J. Romaya, Esq. Attorneys for Mortgagee 260 E. Brown St., Suite 150 Birmingham, Michigan 48009 (248) 567-7419 (01-09)(01-30) 135447 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE BY ADVERTISEMENT: Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 p.m., on February 27, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE SALE: Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by JOHN OLIN, original mortgagors), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as original mortgagee, as nominee for Mid America Mortgage Inc., its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated July 19, 2016, and recorded on July 29, 2016, as Instrument No. 2016-007453, in Barry County Records, Michigan and last assigned to Mid America Mortgage, Inc., as the foreclosing assignee, as documented by an Assignment of Mortgage dated December 9, 2019, and recorded on December 16, 2019, as Instrument No. 2019-012375, in Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due and owing as of February 2, 2020, the sum of One Hundred Seven Thousand Six Hundred Ninety Seven and 59/100 U.S. Dollars ($107,697.59). Said mortgaged premises is situated at 226 West Marshall Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 in the City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and is described as: LAND IN THE CITY OF HASTINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, TO WIT: EAST 1/2 OF LOTS 1272 AND 1273, CITY OF HASTINGS, FORMERLY THE VILLAGE OF HASTINGS, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, BARRY COUNTY RECORDS. The redemption period shall be 6 months (180 Days) from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Pursuant to Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, if the property is sold at foreclosure sale the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder under MCLA 600.3278 for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. Dated: January 7,2020 For More Information, please call: Matthew R. Reinhardt, Esq. Quintairos, Prieto, Wood & Boyer, P.A. Attorneys for Servicer 255 South Orange Avenue, Suite 900 Orlando, Florida 32801 (855) 287-0240 Matter No. 139770 (01-09)(01-30) 135449 v w Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concludec^fiUs than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. Notice of foreclosure by advertisement. Notices given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, thaflthe following mortgage will be foreclosed by a safe’bf the mortgaged premises, or some part of therti, at a public auction sale to the highest biddeHor cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding tHe circuit court in Barry County, starting promptJ^at 1:00 PM on FEBRUARY 6, 2020. The amountdue on the mortgage may be greater on the day ofthe sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale doe§ nbt automatically entitle the purchaser to free and dear ownership of the property. A potential purchasers encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. .. Default has been made in the conditions^of ^a mortgage made by Brandon Clement, unmarried man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated November 15, 2017 and recorded November 22,2017 in Ihstrurft^nt Number 2017-011820 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by AmeriHdnle Mortgage Company, LLC, by assignment. Therbjs claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of ofte Hundred Ten Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-E^lit and 10/100 Dollars ($110,468.10), including int^r^t at 4.5% per annum. „ Under the power of sale contained in <$jaid mortgage and the statute in such case madeaqd provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the place of holding the circuit court within County, Michigan at 1:00 PM on FEBRUARY^, -‘^3 2020. Said premises are located in the Village of Middleville, Barry County Michigan, and^ltfe described as: , J Lot 36, Johnson’s Addition to the Village qpf Middleville, according to the plat thereof recprcled in Liber 1 of plats, Page 2, Barry County Record^. 411 Sherman Street, Middleville, Michigan 49§$3 The redemption period shall be 6 months fromjhe date of such sale, unless determined abandonqdijn accordance with MCLA §600.3241 a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days frontithe date of such sale. vsb If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursliaht to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the propert^%t the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during me redemption period. *0“- Dated: January 9, 2020 File No. 19-012511 Firm Name: Orlans PC Firm Address: 1650 West Big Beaver Road, Troy Ml 48Q84 Firm Phone Number: (248) 502.1400 (01-09)(0^) , edf 'iron 1o8 tijB ' 0£ * ' t0) �Page 10 — Thursday, January 9, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Suspect sought in Little’s Country Store robbery Greg Chandler Staff Writer Michigan State Police at the Wayland post are investigating a robbery that occurred at Little’s Country Store in Hastings Charter Township Monday. The robbery took place about 2:40 p.m. at the store, 5819 Thornapple Lake Road. ^Troopers were looking for a black sedan. Witnesses said the suspect vehicle may have tint on the bottom and top of the front wind­ shield so that only a thin portion at the eye PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: AU real estate advertising in this , newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing ; Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or ' discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or aq? intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. ‘•’ This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. level is clear. They also noticed chrome trim on the back window of the vehicle. WBCH Radio Wednesday reported that a 19-year-old male suspect from Hastings was taken into custody, but State Police did not confirm that report. No information is available as to how much was taken in the robbery. Anyone with information on the holdup is asked to call the MSP Wayland post at (269) 792-2213. Business Service Help Wanted BELLS CONSTRUCTION-18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, power washing, home im­ provements. 269-320-3890. STABLE HAND POSITION­ Looking for someone with experience with horses. 269­ 207-4218 or zlpowell@yahoo. com. MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. Automotive BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. 03 HONDA PILOT, leather, good condition inside, needs motor. Asking $1,500 OBO. 269-838-6590. EQUAL HOUSJHQ OPPORTUNITY Call 269-945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classified ads ................... ■............. ............... „i................................................... ........ „ ........... ......... ....... ............................ The News Is Just the Beginning Your Community... Your Family...Your Interests... Your Home.. .Your World... Call 800.870.7085 or pick it up at one of our locations listed below! IPs All a Part ofYour Local Newspaper! JUDGE, continued from page 1 cuit court judge to the best of your abilities?” “I will,” she replied. “Please sign here,” Doherty directed. That was easier said than done, given the dark and cold. The temperature was a crisp 29 degrees. “I need a light,” Alspaugh said to family members, who promptly provided multiple lights from their cellphones. “Oh no. The pen’s frozen,” she said. “I think your hand’s frozen,” her husband, Micheal, said. “I can’t hardly write,” she replied. Finally, the necessary signatures were on the document, so that Barry County Deputy Court Administrator Jan Otto could notarize it on the spot. “Congratulations!” Doherty said. “Welcome to the bench!” Her family cheered. Alspaugh said the decision to have her swearing-in on New Year’s Day was for fam­ ily members from Memphis, who weren’t able to stay for the official public ceremony that will take place later. It took only a few minutes for the oath of office to be administered, the signing and notarizing of documents and some photos for the family. It was a joyful moment for the group; and a remarkable way for Alspaugh to start the new year. Alspaugh, 56, has been working for years in the court system in a variety of roles. The Michigan State University graduate, with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice earned in August 1985, earned her juris doctor degree from Thomas M. Cooley Law School and was admitted to the state bar in June 1989. Her title, prior to her appointment to the bench by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, was Quasi Judicial Officer II for the county’s trial court. That post formerly had been called an attor­ ney referee, magistrate and probate register. She had served in that capacity since May 2000. When Alspaugh’s appointment was announced in December, Doherty praised her experience and performance in a variety of roles. “She’s familiar with just about all aspects of the court system - and has done an excellent job all the way around.” What Alspaugh did in her most current position was to preside over matters of custo­ dy and parenting time; establishment and modification. She conducted child support reviews, including calculation of guideline recommendations, uninsured medical reim­ bursement, and parenting time enforcement. She presided over preliminary hearing phases of neglect/abuse and delinquency proceed­ ings, as well as over any phase of the process in which the sitting judge was unavailable or unable to hold, with the exception of jury tri­ als. She was a backujTTnagistrate for the dis­ trict court division on warrant issuance, search warrant authorization, arraignments, small claims trials, and general civil scheduling and settlement conferences. Alspaugh also was in the weekly on-call rotation with the primary magistrate and probate register for the probate division, revising and approving or rejecting filings for probate, including deceased estates, guardianships, conservatorships, name chang­ es and adoptions. In addition, from May 2000 to January 2006, Alspaugh was assistant Friend of the Court, supervising support and casework staff, providing legal direction in drafting motions, interpreting orders and statutes, and addressing client complaints. She also has experience as an assistant prosecutor, posts she filled from April 1991 to May 2000 in Barry County and from October 1989 to April 1991 in Ogemaw County. In that capacity, she reviewed requests for war­ rants from law enforcement agencies, drafted documents, prepared criminal cases for trial, motions and sentencings, and appeared for the prosecutor on all stages of case progression. She also worked on delinquency matters and represented and advised the Department of Health and Human Services in neglect and abuse matters, including appeals. She was the primary attorney assigned to paternity and child support actions, represented the prose­ cutor on community and law enforcement committees, and responded to legal questions The judicial oath, as administered by Chief Judge William Doherty, is signed by Vicky Alspaugh and notarized here by Barry County Deputy Court Administrator Jan Otto. posed by various county departments. In Ogemaw County, she was the sole assistant prosecutor. The unified trial court is served by Judge Michael Schipper, Doherty and Alspaugh. Alspaugh’s predecessor, Judge Amy L. McDowell, resigned Oct. 15, 2019. The vacancy was filled through December by vis­ iting Judge Donald Johnston, a retired judge from Kent County, who commuted to Hastings several days each week. Alspaugh’s term commenced on the day she was sworn in and the next day she was on the bench, handling cases. If she wishes to seek a full six-year term, she would be required to run for re-election in November. Her term of office will expire at noon Jan. 1,2021. Two arrested for OWI warrants after crossing while singing An officer stopped a vehicle with a broken taillight after it crossed the center line in the 1000 block of South Hanover Street in Hastings at 4:47 a.m. Dec. 25. The 38-year-old male driver and 38-year-old male passenger appeared nervous, according to the officer. The driv­ er said he did not know about the taillight but he may have crossed the center line because he had been singing. Both occupants had warrants for failing to appear in court on charges of operating while intoxicated and both were arrested. Meth and heroin found during traffic stop An officer observed a vehicle failing to yield to a stop sign on Hanover Street in Hastings at 2:52 p.m. Dec. 28, and initiated a traffic stop. The 37-year-old driver did not have a valid license but did have a warrant for his arrest. The man consented to a search of his vehicle, during which officers found a bag of methamphetamines and heroin residue on drug para­ phernalia. They also found items connected to a recent larceny. Stolen cellphone leads to heroin and warrant arrest Officers went to Parkview Motel in Hastings at 1:20 p.m. Dec. 27 after receiving a com­ plaint about a guest there. A 69-year-old man said a 37-year-old woman at the motel had stolen his phone. The woman told officers the man had helped her buy Suboxone, a medi­ cation used to alleviate narcotics withdrawal, while they were in Lansing. But the woman said they got into a fight and the man kicked her out of his vehicle while she had his phone. The woman said she needed to use the bathroom, and officers asked if they could look at the bathroom first. They found two syringes in the toilet, which the woman said had been used for heroin. She had two warrants for assault and failure to appear in court on an OWI charge, and was arrested. Man assaulted by ex-girlfriend A 41-year-old man called police at 8:47 p.m. Jan. 2 to report his 34-year-old ex-girlfriend had assaulted him. The man said the woman went to his house in the 500 block of East South Street in Hastings and when he told her he did not want to be in a relationship with her anymore, she hit him in the face five times. An officer reported that the man’s left eye was swollen and bruised. The woman refused to cooperate with police, and was arrested. Area locations t o purchase the Hastings Banner! Gun Lake Hastings One Stop Shop (Phillips 66) (M-43 N) Sam’s Gourmet Foods Superette Family Fare PineLake Woodland Woodland Express Nashville Doster Country Store Trading Post Tom’s Market Prairieville ' Hastings Johnny’s ■ Prairieville Fast Stop The General. Store Marathon Lal&Ddesaa Shelbyville w? gp* Middleville Family Fare Speedway Delton Johnny's Carl’s Middleville Marketplace •r Lake-O-Mart Hydrocodone stolen from parked car A 33-year-old man called police at 6 a.m. Jan. 2 to report a bottle of hydrocodone had been taken from his car in the 2000 block of Heath Road in Rutland Charter Township. The glove compartment was open and appeared to have ransacked. The case is inactive pending further information. Lake Odessa Johnny's Delton Greg’s Get-lt-N-Go Lake-O-Express Town & Country ** ■t: Middleville Johnny’s Carl’s Brown’s Cedar Creek Grocery Walgreens & Nashville C Store Cloverdale General Phillips 66 Gas Station (W. State St.) Family Fare Gas Station Nashville Johnny’s Police received a complaint of a reckless driver on M-37 Highway near Pifer Road at 7:50 p.m. Jan. 2. The caller said a truck was veering across the roadway, going into the ditch, nearly hitting a sign and had struck a mailbox. Officers stopped the vehicle. The driver, a 60-year-old Hickory Comers man, had trouble standing and did not know where he was. An empty beer bottle and pipe with burnt marijuana were found inside. When asked if there was marijuana in the man’s system he replied, “There might be.” Fie had a blood alcohol content of 0.184 and was arrested. MV Pharmacy Cloverdale Mega Bev Penn-Nook Gift Shop Little’s Country Store Driver under the influence strikes mailbox Freeport L&J’s Banfield Banfield General Store Dowling Goldsworthys Freeport General Store Vehicle vandalized during bonfire A 19-year-old Middleville man called police to report his 2011 GMC Sierra had been vandalized while he was at a bonfire in the 5000 block of Duncan Lake Road in Thomapple Township around midnight the morning of Jan. 4. The man said his taillight, side mirror and windshield had been damaged. He said the perpetrator also took a bottle of his tobacco spit, which had been in the center console, and poured it over his windshield. The case does not have suspects. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 9, 2020— Page 11 Caledonia can’t keep up with TK ladies^ Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans led by as man as 36 points in their return to the court Tuesday night. The Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ bas­ ketball team opened the 2020 portion of the schedule with a 53-28 victory over visiting Caledonia. “You always worry coming out of break if they’re going to come out flat when you hav­ en’t played a game in a little while,” TK head coach Ross Lambitz said. I thought they were focused from the get-go, that made a big dif­ ference, especially on defense. They made some things happen defensively, and we were able to get some shots. It is better when the ball goes in.” The TK ladies were on fire from behind the three-point line in the first half, and hit five three-pointers in the first quarter alone as they built a 26-7 advantage. The lead swelled to 52-18 by the end of the third quarter. Paige VanStee led TK with 17 points on the night and TK got 11 points from Tyah Jefferson. Claudia Wilkinson, Hailey Campbell and Haven Beyer had six points apiece for TK. It is the first time the Trojan team has topped 50 points in a bailgame this season. “I felt like we got contributions right down the line,” Lambitz said. “The bench was active when they were on the bench, and then when they subbed in and were able to get big minutes. Haven comes in there in the second quarter and hits two triples. We got the one from Hailey Campbell there too to end the Thomapple Kellogg’s Carmen Beern^jflips a pass toward the corner in transition during the Trojans’ victory over the visiting Caledonia girls Tuesday. (Photo by Brjaft Bremer) Thomapple Kellogg junior guard Cole Shoobridge tries to beat Caledonia’s Luke Thelen to the baseline during the second quarter of the Trojans’ non-conference loss at CHS Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Scots score lopsided win over TK boys Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity boys’ basketball team went on an 8-0 run in the final minute of the opening quarter to snap a 16-16 tie and never really slowed down against visiting Thomapple Kellogg Tuesday night. The Fighting Scots went from scoring 55 points in a loss at South Christian to close 2019 to scoring 50 points in the first half of an 84-60 win over over the Trojans. The Scots built a 22-point halftime lead by controlling the boards and knocking down shots against TK. Caledonia head coach Phil Visser warned his guys against settling for three-point shots, but they created good looks from beyond the arc with good ball movement and hit seven threes in the first half. Finally with everyone healthy, the Scots got 26 points from Andrew Larson, 13 from Carter Toomas, 12 from Jack Snider, 11 from Koby VanclerWoude and 10 from Luke Thelen. Larson hit a pair of free throws to put the Scots up 18-16 with 55 seconds left in the opening quarter. The Trojans lost the ball in the backcourt twice within a matter of moments, and those turnovers turned into a bucket by Snider and then a three-point play by Larson. Thelen split a pair at the free throw line to push the run to eight points, and then opened the second quarter with a three-point­ er. The Scots’ lead was 15 points within a mat­ ter of minutes and then quickly up to 20 points. “We talked about attacking, because we tend to settle for threes sometimes,” Visser said. “We did a really good job of attacking and having same-side kick and knocking in shots. We look at what we ran right before the half, Carter Thomas comes off a screen, we get a great hammer screen on the backside and Jack Snider knocks in a three to put us to 50, we were just sharing the ball and knocking in shots.” Caledonia hit nine three-pointers on the night. Visser said his team also had close to 20 offensive rebounds in the ballgame, which helped his team take 37 shot attempts to the Trojans’ 24 in the first half alone. TK went on a 10-0 run to start the second half, with the help of triples from Alex Bonnema and Nolan Dahley, but the Scots Thornapple Kellogg’s Haven Beyer (22) protects the basketball as a Caledonia defender fights around a screen at the top of the key during the second half at TKHS Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) _ I TK boys roll to 3-0 in Gold best Wayland bowlers Thomapple Kellogg guard Nolan Dahley looks to prevent Caledonia’s Jack Snider from getting a shot off in the paint during the first half of their non-conference match-up at Caledonia High School Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) righted the ship to improve to 3-2 overall this season heading into Friday’s OK Red Conference opener at Hudsonville. “I am sure people in the stands wanted me to call time out, but we try to put them in a position to overcome adversity and try to play through things and see how we react. Guys did bounce back and make a few shots and extend the lead back a little bit,” Visser said. TK, now 1-4, will host Wayland to start OK Gold play Friday. Austin VanElst had a team-high 23 points for TK Tuesday, with Cole Shoobridge adding 17 and Dahley 13. Vikings open 2020 by beating winless Belding Two winless teams entered the the Lakewood High School gymnasium Tuesday night, and Belding went home still looking for its first victory of the 2019-20 varsity boys’ basketball season. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads >wb I S16 I ji’d | second quarter, which was a pretty big shaft | Anytime you can get a bucket to end the qu^p ter helps with the momentum going into the next one.” Abby Mitchell led Caledonia with six points and Madison Morris had five. “We talked a lot about trying to make* if\ where they couldn’t make direct passes. We wanted to get hands in passing lanes and be active,” Lambitz said. “That obviously gives you a little more time to rotate and things like that, and that allows for those tips. When they can make good hard passes and they caix swing it around the horn, nobody can chase the ball that fast.” He was also pleased with the way his girls j worked on the defensive glass and then tran­ sitioned to offense. j The 4-2 Trojans open the OK Gold season at home against Wayland Friday. The 2-5 I Fighting Scots begin OK Red play at | Hudsonville Friday. I The Lakewood boys scored their first win of the season, besting the Black Knights 61-42 to improve to 1-4 on the season. The Vikings will go after their first Greater Lansing Activities Conference win of the sea­ son Tuesday (Jan. 14) at Maple Valley after taking this Friday night off. The Vikings steadily built their advantage against Belding, pushing a nine-point half­ time lead to 15 points by the end of the third quarter. Bryant Makley had 20 points and Jacob Elenbaas 17 to lead the Lakewood offense. Makley hit four three-pointers. Jayce Cusack added eight points and Denny Sauers six. Belding didn’t have a guy in double fig­ ures. Bremen Flynn led his team with nine points. Three Knights finished with seven points apiece. The Thomapple Kellogg varsity boys’ bowling team moved its OK Gold Conference record to 3-0 with a 26-4 win over visiting Wayland at Hastings Bowl Monday. The TK boys won six of the ten Baker points with a high Baker game of 243. Trevor VanPolen, Wyatt Jacobson, Michael Willshire and Colton Hicswa each won both of their points in the regular games. VanPolen had scores of 234 and 202. Jacobson had a high of 221. Willshire had a 214. Hicswa’s top game of the day was a 203. Ethan Kriekaard and Connor Wilson won one point apiece for TK in the regular games as well. The TK girls were bested in a Gold dual for 5i I the first time this season, falling 22-8 to w .J. Wildcats. ■■ Carly Snyder had a high-game of 176 atfd‘ took a point for TK. Dalace Jousma won two J points with scores of 173 and 169. TK also^ got a point from Paige Green who rolled a| 151. - « "J - Vikings win 10 flights, team title, at Unity Invitational The Lakewood varsity wrestling team dom­ inated Hudsonville Unity Christian’s Unity Invitational Saturday, outscoring runner-up Uliana Christian by more than 200 points. Lakewood wrestlers won nine of the 14 weight classes, with championships going to Jon Clack at 215 pounds, Grant Clarkson at 285, Zachary Gibson 112, Kanon Atwell 119, Jordan Mclllwain 125, Keegan VanAlstine 140, Donavan Pratt 145, Vern Fields 152 and Saxon Sports Shorts JV Bowling The Hastings JV boys’ bowling team scored a 21-9 win over visiting Pennfield Tuesday. Tyler Sue scored a point for the Saxons with a 135 game and then another with a 166. Austin Fenstemaker helped with his 138game and Paxton Walden grabbed a point with a 153 game. Drew Rhodes bowled a 178 game for another Saxon point. Christian Stacey helped the team with a 157-game. The Saxons won both Baker Games with a high score of 209. The Hastings JV girls won their match with Pennfield 20-10. Rlyee Miller, Shy anna Baker, Abby Barton, Amber Rabideau, Bailey Muscuslus, Katelyn Simmonton and Emma Vann grabbed 16 points with their games for a combined twogame series of 1071 for the Saxons in the win. Greg Vaughn at 160 pounds. The Vikings finished the day with 335 points. Uliana Christian was second with 128.5 and Kelloggsville third with 128 at the 13-team tournament. Buchanan was fourth with 124.5 points, ahead of Vicksburg 102.5, Unity Christian 87.5, Hudsonville 85, Godwin Heights 79.5, Allegan 64 and Newaygo 57 in the top ten. Allen Shellington was the runner-up at 189 i' I pounds for the Vikings. Kyle Petrie (171: pounds), Zachary Sbiciak (103), Kaidenj Villanueva (135) and Nathaniel Graham (160) 3 were third while teammates Gabe Cappon| (119) and Trace Newton (130) both finished 1 fourth. The Lakewood wrestlers were scheduled to J host a Greater Lansing Activities Conference | quad last night. The Vikings will be back ini action Saturday at the Rockford Invitational. 5 ■IIi * NEBO A BOX? \Ne sell boxes of 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00 - 5:30 ALL SIZES! �Page 12 — Thursday, January 9, 2020 —- The Hastings Banner Saxons score third Lamb trophy in four seasons The Hastings varsity wrestling team celebrates its third LH Lamb Tournament championship in four years after outscoring runnerup Caledonia by 11 points to earn the hardware Saturday at Hastings High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg sophomore fights to try and bring East Grand Rapids’ John Shelton dbwn to the mat during their 215-pound championship match Saturday at Hastings’ annual LH Lamb Tournament. Shelton scored a 15-3 win and earned the day’s most outstanding wrestler trophy. (Photo by Brett Bremer) • Brett Bremer Sports Editor Saxon senior Shane Dillon looks forward to this first tournament of January every year. The results show it. Dillon won a flight championship at the Hastings varsity wrestling team’s annual LH Lamb Invitational for the third time Saturday, lining Ionia’s Blake Ledesma midway through the second period of their 112-pound championship match. J He was one of eight Hastings wrestlers to reach the championship finals, and one of three individual champions for the Saxons. |{astings won the tournament for the third dme in four years by outscoring runner-up Caledonia (last year’s champion) 184.5 to 173.5 Saturday. i The Saxon varsity team got individual championships from sophomore Mason Denton at 130 pounds, freshman Zach Chipman at 103 pounds too. Dillon scored a 21-4 technical fall in his semifinal match with Delton Kellogg’s Hunter Antolovich, and then worked out from under Ledesma in the second period of their cham­ pionship match before catching the Bulldog 112-pounder and putting him on his back. “It was a guillotine. I put (Ledesma’s arm) over my head and you lock up there,” Dillon said. “It is a classic move. I don’t think any­ one ever really does that anymore.” Dillon said it was a stressful lead-up to the tournament. Not only was his sophomore teammate Dillon Neal (wrestling for the ‘B’ team) in his weight class but also his cousin Logan White from Caledonia. Ledesma pinned White in the closing seconds of the first period of their opening round match, so the cousins never got the chance to meet up. Dillon earned a first-period take down in his championship match, but saw Ledesma pull even with an early reversal in the second period. Dillon said whenever he gets the chance at practice he has been working on getting off the bottom, and that work paid off Saturday. “Usually I struggle on the bottom. It has always been a focus just to do one quick burst and try to kind of spin out of it and that is exactly what I did and it actually worked,” Dillon said. After not winning a tournament last season, other than their district tournament at the end of the year, the Saxons have now won three tournaments this season. In all, the Saxon varsity team had 11 med­ alists Saturday with another three ‘B’ team wrestlers finishing on the podium as well. Robby Slaughter (140 pounds), Gabe Trick (145), Payton Miller (160), Tyler Dull (171) and Jon Giron (119) were runners-up at their weight class for Hastings. Delton Kellogg got three runner-up finishes on the day, from Cadeii Ferris at 215 pounds, Hunter Belew at 189 and Gage Vincent at 103 pounds. The Panthers were fourth in the team standings with 112 points behind Petoskey’s total of 117 points. East Grand Rapids placed fifth with 105 points and the Pioneers’ 215pound champion John Shelton was named the tournament’s most outstanding wrestler in what was an extremely tough weight class. The Hastings varsity team had Matthew Thompson third at 135 pounds, Elias Sanchez fourth at 189, and Jackson DuBois third at 285. “Winning tournaments this year it has been a big plus, a big improvement. We have a bunch of young guys that are helping us out. They come in and they have to be mature now,” Hastings head coach Darrell Slaughter said. “We’re going to keep on doing what we’re doing. It is working for us now, just try and get things ready for the end of the year,” he added. The Saxon 4B’ team that placed eighth in the nine-team standings had Tanner Rairigh (130), Gili Perez (152) and Dillon Neal (112) all place fourth. The nine teams included the Saxon ‘B’ team and an “All-Star” team made up up teams’ extra wrestlers. “We have come a long way since the first match, especially the freshmen,” Dillon said. “We have a lot of freshmen this year and they’re looking pretty good. I am really happy with this team so far.” One of those freshmen, Chipman, took his championship Saturday by scoring an 11-5 win over Delton Kellogg’s Vincent in the 103pound championship match. Chipman also pinned Delton Kellogg’s Joelle White, wres­ tling for the All-Star team, in the semifinals. Denton had three pins on the day in win­ ning the 130-pound championship for Hastings. He stuck Ionia’s Ethan Bowen 1:29 into their championship match after pinning Delton Kellogg’s Chase Nevins and Petoskey’s (All-Star) Mark Ledig to open the day. Ionia was sixth in the final team standings with 99 points, ahead of East Lansing 45, Hastings ‘B’ 28 and the All-Star Team 17. Delton Kellogg also had Charlie Zurhorst third at 112 pounds, Bow Arms fourth at 135 pounds, White fourth at 103 pounds and Jayden Oms fourth at 125 pounds. White was earning points for the All-Star team. Caledonia had more individual champions than any other team at the tournament, four, and was wrestling a day after opening the OK Red Conference season with wins over Hudsonville and West Ottawa. The Fighting Hastings freshman Zach Chipman holds Delton Kellogg’s Gage Vincent on his back during the third period of his 11-5 win over the Panthers’ lightweight in their 103pound championship match Saturday at the LH Lamb Tournament in Hastings. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings senior 112-pounder Shane Dillon works to turn Ionia’s Blake Ledesma onto his back during the second period of their championship match Saturday at the Saxons’ annual LH Lamb Tournament. Dillon earned the pin 64 seconds into the second period to capture the third individual Lamb championship of his varsity career. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Scots got individual titles from Owen Norman at 135 pounds, Jonah Siekman at 140, Rick Pizzala at 152 pounds and Bryce Briggs at 189. Comets keep DK boys winless in SAC Valley The Panthers have won every non-confer­ ence ballgame so far this winter and fallen in all three shots against Southwestern Athletic Conference Valley Division foes. The Kalamazoo Christian varsity boys’ basketball team dropped the Delton Kellogg boys to 2-3 overall this season with a 48-37 win in Delton Tuesday. The Comets improve to 4-2 overall and 3-0 in the SAC Valley with the win. Junior center Cole Pape led the Delton Kellogg boys with 14 points and ten rebounds. Dawson Grizzle added seven points and eight boards, and Jordan Rench had five points in the loss. Delton Kellogg returns to action at home against SAC Valley foe Constantine Friday, on Athletic Hall of Fame Night at DKHS. See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS Delton Kellogg’s Hunter Belew fights to escape the grasp of Caledonia’s Bryce Briggs during their 189-pound championship match Saturday at Hastings’ annual LH Lamb Tournament. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 9, 2020 — Page 1$ Tough third quarter costs Saxons against Ionia Hastings guard Macy Winegar works her way around an Ionia defender along the baseline during their non-conference match-up at Hastings High School Tuesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Hastings varsity girls’ basketball team has run into some stand-out ballplayers in the early part of the 2019 season, Coldwater’s Carlee Crabtree, Wayland’s Stephanie Ainsworth and Thomapple Kellogg’s Paige VanStee among them. ■ Ionia’s Taylor Kirby was added to the list Tuesday. She finished with a game-high 28 points as the Bulldogs scored a 54-40 win over the Saxons at Hastings High School. Hastings had a 23-22 lead at the half, but the Bulldogs put together a 19-5 run in the third quarter. Kirby scored 13 points in that run. She hit three three-pointers in that third period run. "We tried to, midway through the quarter, contain her by denying her the ball. Taylor did a good job of running off screens and moving without the ball and creating scoring opportu­ nities for herself,” Hastings head coach Mike Engle said. The Saxons limited turnovers for the most part, but had a few too many in that third peri­ od against the Bulldogs’ pressure. Hastings also didn’t shoot the ball* especially well in that third quarter. -JEpgle liked the intensity his girls played with throughout the 32 minutes. The Saxons’ Allison Teed elevates to get a shot off in the lane during her team’s non-conference match-up with Ionia Tuesday at Hastings High School. (Photo by Perry: Hardin) J Saxon guard Aubreanna Highway fires a shot up from behind a screen during her team’s non-conference loss to Ionia Tuesday at Hastings High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Sophomore Brook Youngs led the Saxons with 16 points on the night, her highest scor­ ing varsity contest. “One of The positive outcomesof Tuesday night’s loss was how well Brooklynn Youngs shot. Brooklynn has spent the early part of the season recovering from wrist surgery which had limited the range of motion in her shoot­ ing hand and thus made it difficult for her to shoot from the perimeter,” Engle sairf. “(Tuesday) she found the^hooting-.range that we had seen out of herfes^asketball season ” Engle said Youngs was regularly a dou­ ble-digit scorer for the Saxon JV as a fresh- man last winter. She hit one three Tuesday. “Teams have been focusing on containing our primary scorer, Macy Winegar, and by having other scorers emerge, whether it is Brooklynn Youngs, Carly Warner or Josey Nickels it allows us to have a much more balanced scoring attack.” downtown Detroit, home of the NBA’s Detract Pistons, to take on Iiiterstate-8 Athletfo Conference foe Harper Creek Saturday. The, Hastings boys are also in Detroit against the Beavers Saturday. That high school double­ header will be followed Saturday evening by the Pistons bailgame against the Chicago Bulls.—----- ---- -------- -------- . ... - finished with Seven and three rebounds. Hastings is now 0-6 overall this season. The Saxons head to Little Caeser’s Arena in rfi Saxon cheer meets goals, Vikeswin, at Lion invite Brett Bremer^ Sports Editor The Saxons were ready to take the mat Saturday. Hastings varsity competitive cheer team had some big goals it wanted to accomplish in the opening meets of 2020, and it will have to come up with some new ones following its performance at the Maple Valley’s New Year Invitational. “They crushed every goal our first time out,” Hastings head coach Linsey Jacinto said. “It was amazing to watch them see the results of all of the literal blood, sweat, and tears they have put in.” Hastings was second overall in the six-team field finishing with an overall final score of 716.56. Lakewood was about 20 points in front of the Saxons, taking the day’s champi­ onship with 736.28 points. The Saxons were about a half point better than the Vikings in round two, outscoring them 209.96 to 209.58. The Vikings had a 5.5 point edge on the Saxons after round one, and then pulled away with what was the best round three of the day by a sizable margin. Jacinto said her team went into the day wanting to score over 700 overall for the day and throw back tucks in round two, among other scoring and performance goals. The round two back tucks helped the Hastings girls score more than 200 points in round two for the first time in Jacinto’s six year’s leading the program. “We once had a 199.9, so breaking 200 was a huge goal,” Jacinto said. The Saxons met their goal of 210 points in round one with a score of 220.50 and met their goal of 275 points in round three with a score of 716.56 in that final round. “We have really focused on jumps, preci­ sion, and overall impression. We wanted to come out with a lot of energy and really pump up the crowd,” Jacinto said of her team’s round one performance. Lakewood won the invitational by adding scores of 226.00 in round one and 300.70 in round three. The Vikings had the highest score of the day in each of those rounds. The Saxons’ Interstate-8 Athletic Conference rivals from Pennfield were third with 667.12 points, ahead of Sturgis 659.70, Webberville 644.00 and Maple Valley 621.00. Lumen Christi will host the opening Interstate-8 jamboree of the season next Wednesday, Jan. 15. “Honestly, we are not even looking at who we are competing against,” Jacinto said after besting the 2018-19 1-8 champs from Pennfield Saturday. “We are just focused on being the best team Hastings has ever had, and beating our past. We have a line in our Round 1 that says, ‘it’s not about luck or past tradition, this team right here is on a mission.’ It could not be more true.” Pennfield put together point totals of 218.80 in round one, 189.32 in round two and 259.00 in round three. The Maple Valley girls scored a 199.60 in round one, 176.90 in round two and 262.50 in round three. The Lions outscored Pennfield and Sturgis in round three, a pair of teams that were above them in the overall final stand­ ings. Lion head coach Sarah Huissen and her team were pleased to reach their goal of accomplishing three of the four choreography points by getting their OLE (one leg exten- Bulldogs remain undefeated with win over Saxons The Ionia Bulldogs kept their record per­ fect with a 59-44 win over the Hastings varsi­ ty boys’ basketball team in Ionia Tuesday. The Bulldogs moved out to a ten-point lead in the opening quarter and extended their advantage with a 15-6 surge in the third quar­ ter. Nick Szymanski led the Bulldogs with 23 points, 12 rebounds and four assists on the night. Teammate Tyler Walczak chipped in ten points. The Saxons got 13 points from Kirby Beck, eight from Evan Eastman, seven from Elijah Smith and six from Evan Murphy. Eastman also had eight rebounds. Hastings was 0-for-6 from the free throw line on the night. The Saxons fall to 1-3 overall this season with the loss. Hastings returns to action Saturday at Little Caeser’s Arena in downtown Detroit, home of the NBA’s Detroit Pistons, taking on Interstate-8 Athletic Conference foe Harper Creek. The Lakewood varsity competitive cheer team gives its flyers a lift during round three of the Maple Valley New Year Invitational ! Saturday. The Vikings finished just ahead of the Hastings Saxons to win the overall championship. sion) in during that final round performance. “Round three was the highlight of the day. The girls love to perform the stunts in this round,” Huissen said. The Lions were scheduled to host Lakewood and the rest of the Greater Lansing Activities Conference for the first GLAC jamboree of the season last night. The Lions and Vikings will see each other again Friday at the# Lakewood Viking CheerFest. Hastings is back in action Saturday at Gull, Lake’s Blue Devil Invitational. Comets build 20-point lead in first quarter against DK Brett Bremer Sports Editor Kalamazoo Christian handed the Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ basketball team its fourth consecutive defeat Tuesday, scoring a 57-28 win over the visiting Panthers in Southwestern Athletic Conference Valley Division action. The Panthers fall to 0-3 in the SAC Valley with the defeat. They’ll be back at it in the conference when they take on Constantine during the Athletic Hall of Fame Night at DKHS Friday. The Comets jumped out to a 24-3 lead in the opening quarter Tuesday. “We obviously did not come out of the chute very well last night,” DK head coach Mike Mohn said. “We did not match Kalamazoo Christian’s energy nor their over­ all effort.” The Delton Kellogg girls kept their chins up and outscored the Comets 16-10 in the second quarter, but then managed just nine points in the second half of the loss. “I actually wasn’t too displeased with the shots that we were getting, but unless they fall through the hoop it doesn’t matter where they are coming from,” Mohn said. Mary Whitmore and Abbie Bever tied for' the team lead with six points each for Delton. Coach Mohn liked the way Whitmore J attacked the hoop Tuesday. “She did a nice job of getting into the paint but just couldn’t get the ball to drop,” Mohn ' said. DK also got four points from Erin Kapteyn * and three from Holly McManus, who also; attacked the basket fairly well but just strug­ gled to finish. Kalamazoo Christian runs its record to 5-1 overall this season with the win, and a perfect 3-0 in the SAC Valley. �LP&ge 14 —Thursday, January 9, 2020 —The Hastings Banner Pennfield welcomes Saxons into 1-8 competition Krpff Bremer Brett Sports Editor The Saxon varsity wrestling teams are 0-1 jri the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference, but they are both officially in the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference now. ’ _: The Hastings boys’ and girls’ varsity bowl­ ing teams took part in an Interstate-8 Athletic Conference dual for the first time Tuesday, hpsting Pennfield at Hastings Bowl. The Pennfield boys scored a 21-9 win over the ? , '; L TV n- 1 I -1 , „ . „ Saxons and the Pennfield girls scored a 21-9 win as well. They absolutely love it. They feel so much more like a team (being a part of the confer­ ence),” Hastings head coach Andrea Rhodes said of her bowlers. “All of the players that were here last year that are here this year know exactly what they need to do and have been helping out those new kids that I have. I have a lot more seniors this year, plus bunches of freshmen that came in this year that are _ . ™ doing very well.” and O’Keefe placed seventh. Creek Monday and at Lumen Christi Tuesday It was as solid start for the Hastings boys, Hastings had five twosomes at the event, The Saxons’ next home dual is Jan. 21 agains who split the two Baker games by winning with the team of Kerby and Richmond just Parma Western. one with an outstanding 209 score. missing out on qualifying for the match-play It is a very different schedule than when the Pennfield outscored the Saxon boys in the by placing 11th in the three-game qualifying Saxon program returned to varsity competi two regular games 1903 to 1679. Gage series. tion last winter after a hiatus. The Saxons Richmond and John Hinkle earned points for Hoyt and Hinkle were second in the quali­ didn’t have a slate of conference duals to the Saxons, with Richmond rolling a 186 and fying, and Rhodes and O’Keefe were eighth Hinkle a 198. Jacob O’Keefe had scores of in the qualifying - narrowly edging the ninth­ compete in during the 2018-19 season. “It will be a lot different,” coach Rhodes 186 and 213 in his two games. place team by three pins. said, the kids are going to be expected to The Pennfield girls rolled a score of 1664 The tournament included duos from in their two-game series with the Saxons, out­ Marshall, Hastings, Pennfield, Jackson practice one or maybe two days a week for these next two months and then the rest of the scoring the hosts total of 1436. Lumen Christi, Olivet, Coldwater and Sturgis. days are matches. They’re going to under­ Abby Zull earned a pair of team points, Hastings is scheduled to head to Jackson getting the first with a high-game of 148. for an 1-8 match-up with Jackson Northwest stand that it is going to be a little bit of work Andrea Rhodes and Daisy Kerby won points this afternoon, and will go to the Lowell for them. But honestly, from what I have this for the Saxons as well. Ashland Hoyt had a Invitational Saturday. Hastings is on the road year it is going to be a good year. “It is going to be a good year.” high-game of 197 for the Saxons. in the 1-8 twice in the week ahead, at Harper “I am so excited.” Hastings has plenty of bowlers for JV boys’ and girls teams too. The Saxon JV boys won 21-9 and the Saxon JV girls scored a 20-10 win over the green and gold Panthers. The Saxons have been a part of four tourna­ ments in the lead-up to the conference season. The Saxons were a part of the Marshall Scotch Doubles Tournament Saturday. Hinkle and Hoyt teamed up to place fifth out of 44 Maple Valley came out of the opening run to get back within nine before running out duos at the event. Teammates Andrea Rhodes quarter with the lead, but couldn’t fend off the of gas. The Eagles outscored the Lions 9-2 in visiting Olivet Eagles as the night wore on the final eight minutes. Tuesday at Maple Valley High School. The Eagles got 15 points, four steals and 12 Olivet scored a 48-32 win over the Lion rebounds from Peyton Lehman and ten points varsity girls’ basketball team, dropping the from Miranda Barnes. Danae Feldpausch had Maple Valley girls to 0-6 on the season so far. eight deflections and five steals for the Eagle “We moved the ball early and attacked the defense, which had four players with at least basket, which allowed us to kick the ball out three steals on the night . and attack again,” Lion head coach Landon Olivet improves its record to 3-3 with the Wilkes said. win. His girls led the Eagles 11-7 after one quar­ Maple Valley got 11 points, five steals and ter. Olivet went on a 14-7 run in the second eight rebounds from Ashlyn Wilkes. Alison quarter, and stretched their lead throughout McGlocklin added seven points and Trista the second half. Medina scored six. “We had several careless turnovers on the “Unbelievable effort by the girls,” coach press,” Wilkes said. “We got back better (on Wilkes said. “We have several things to clean defense) but if you turn the ball over before up, but I believe these young ladies can do half- court it gets ugly.” anything they set their mind to. We need to Olivet scored 15 points in transition, and continue to work on our toughness both men­ did most of its scoring inside the paint. tally and physically.” Olivet pushed its lead to 21-18 at the half The Lions return to action at home against and had the lead in double figures in the third Perry Friday. quarter before the Lions put together as little Lion ladies gain early lead but Eagles rally for win Hastings bowlers John Hinkle and Ashland Hoyt celebrate with their fifth-place medais following their performance at the Marshall Scotch Doubles Tournament Saturday. See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. The Hastings duo of Jacob O’Keefe and Andrea Rhodes is all smiles after a seventh-place finish Saturday at the Marshall Scotch Doubles Tournament. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. 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State Street, Suite 3 Hastings, Ml 49058 269.945.0922 Spectrum Health Pennock Family Medicine - Middleville 490 Edward Street Middleville, Ml 49333 269.795.4434 Jamie McCartney, MD Adam Mitchell, DO Caledonia Rebecca Eckert, FNP Caledonia Andrew Stanley, DO Gun Lake Gun Lake Aha Anthony, FNP Maty Yakoby, MD Hastings Andrew Mepham, PA-C Hastings Lynda Simpson, DO Middleville Middleville Spectrum Health Pennock Online Scheduling | Expanded hours | findadoctor.spectrumhealth.org 5 � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-01-16.pdf 70e628606e9ea4b9448215622532c8de PDF Text Text Ha: Yankee Springs residents sound off 4nfic Library ■ite Street Ml 49053 Online sh°Pping is burying in waste DK girls take first lead in final seconds See EditorWon Page 4 See Story on Page 16 See Story on Page 2 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 1070490102590504122149058195427 ANNER puSICl’W8^ Hast ngs » « PRICE 75C County commissioners unanimous in support of refugees Letter on its way, to Pompeo Rebecca Pierce Editor z\ letter consenting to refugee resettlements in Barry County is on its way to U.S. Secretary of State Michael Pompeo after county commissioners crafted the wording and unanimously agreed on a final version. Their vote Tuesday to approve the letter elicited applause from some county residents NEWS Forum on jail, COA is Wednesday A Barry County community forum to discuss a potential millage election in August will begom at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 22, at Thomapple Valley Church, 2750 S. M-43 Highway. Hastings. The public is invited to atrend and take part-in a discussion about the current state of tlie county jail and Commission on Aging buildings. The forum, which will be hosted by the county boatd of commissioners, will be facilitated by TowerPinkster of Kalamazoo. Information will be provided, ques­ tions will Ik answered and public input will be sought. More information about this event can be obtained by calling 269-945-1284. Great Decisions program returning next month t. /Xnyone who hears accounts of inter­ national events they don’t fully under­ stand or wonders about the location of countries involved may be interested in the upcoming Great Decisions program. The two-month class will lake a look at eight of the most significant and criti­ cal issues facing America. The topics for 2019 will include climate change; India. Pakistan and the Kashmir region; Red Sea security: modem slavery and human trafficking: U.S. relations with the Northern Triangle of Honduras, El .Salvador and Guatemala; China’s Road into Latin America; The Philippines and U5. relations; Artificial intelligence and data. The local discussion group is one of nearly 20 in Michigan and hundreds throughout the United Stales and across the world. A soft-cover book, which provides background, relevant facts, present and future policy options and impartial anal­ yses written by independent experts, is available for purchase. Attendees read the assigned article prior to each meeting to gain background information and preoare for discussion. Along with Liking pari in discussions, participants will watch a video sharing multiple view­ points on the week’s topic. Consensus is not an aim of the pro­ gram. Instead, the class is designed to help individuals better understand com­ plex issues. The urenip will meet 1:30-3:30 p.m. 'Ibesdays. Feb. 4 through March 24, at Hastings Public Library. Regular alien dance i< encouraged but not requited. Hie meetings are free; the only cost is fl)nhe"oftb<)l.ndU)ok Anyone seeking additional infonua.eishini’ «> o’der llic book may m ± 269-94H-2WK. or eij Carole, tirofebarchfeymail.com. by ■ mfomifeion can be found on the l-oreisn 1 Aviation', website, fpa.org- in the audience, many of whom had attended who happen to look like us.” Barry said, “The paper may have the meeting to express support for the action. About a dozen people spoke on the issue, misrepresented a little bit about what happened and observers watched intently as the board, last week.” Later, she told The Banner that a problem led by vice chairwoman Vivian Conner in the with coverage of last week s committee of the absence of Heather Wing, discussed it. “Listening to this conversation has whole meeting was the fact that commissioners restored my faith in our county government,” do not refute or disagree with public comments. So. last week, no rebuttal was Terry Trupiano Barry of Hastings said. Barry County commissioners were offered to comments that vehemently opposed originally asked to authorize a letter to the request for a letter of consent. Pompeo stating the county’s consent to However, unlike last week’s meeting, allowing the resettling of unaccompanied most of Tuesday’s public comments were in refugee minors with licensed foster families support of refugee resettlement in Barry in the county by Bethany Christian Services. County. Currently, one family in the county is “I’ve been a Hastings resident for 35 licensed and. thus, qualifies for child years,” Barry said,“and I’m here to say I want placement. to support the idea that we will have refugees President Donald Trump issued an in Barry County, and that we won’t leave a executive order Sept. 26, 2019. that requires 14-year-old child without someone to love refugee resettlement agencies such as Bethany him or her.’” to obtain written consent from slate and Ann Arnett of Hastings, who said she was county governments to continue refugee a foster parent for unaccompanied refugee resettlement work in that county. The written minors in the early 1980s, said, “When I die. consent must be in the form of a letter one of tlie proudest times will be when I had those refugees in my home.... It was good for addressed to Pompeo. Initially, the order was intended to go into our family; it was rood for our schools and effect within 90 days of issuance. good for our community. ... 1 am Barry, who spoke in support of refugee wholeheartedly asking that you would resettlements in the county during the first approve this.” Elden Shellcnbarger of Hastings, who had public comment period, praised commissioners at the conclusion of their meeting, “I feel that objected to the request at last week’s meeting, you are humanitarians and you do care about said. “I’m not against kids being adopted the people of the world — and not just people from other countries.” --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- commissioners,“I don’t understand what is so controversial about helping out a couple of children in need of a safe place to stay. ”1 believe Bethany [Christian Services] is a highly respectable ministry, and I personally am thankful for all the work they do in spreading the love of Christ by caring for the needy and oppressed.... “I would be ashamed if we allowed the same people who come here week after week to stir chaos to be the leading voice on this and, for (hat reason, I ask you to search your hearts and make a decision in favor of helping these children in need of a good home.” Heidi Cross of Barry County said she grew up in the county, attended church in Nashville and showed pigs at the county fair. Now. she is a caseworker for Bethany Christian Services and “it has completely changed who I am.” The children she works with “arc the most resilient and strong children I have ever met in my life,” she said. Cross began to weep as she described Barry County Vice Chairwoman Vivian Conner ran the county commissioners’ them. “They are brave. ... They have no meeting Tuesday in the absence of parents. Their countries are tom apart by Chairwoman Heather Wing, who was ill. war.” One 18-year-old who has never able to go (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) to school in his home country is excited to be But he suggested the board find better able to attend school here, Cross said. organizations to vet refugees, adding, “1 don’t “I’ve never met many American teenagets think the United States should be world’s dumping grounds.” See UNANIMOUS, page 3 Cody Hayes of Thomapple Township told —- ■------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------ .... ... ,■, Commissioners get campaign advice Rebecca Pierce Editor The next step in tlie process to get Barry County residents on board with a plan to fix or replace the jail and Commission on Aging buildings will come in the form of a commu­ nity dialogue session at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 22, at Thomapple Valley Church. When Hastings Charter Township Supervisor Jim Brown heard the county commissioners’ discussion with their hired project facilitator, TowerPinksler’s Eric Hackman, on Tuesday he wasn’t impressed. As the commissioners wrapped up their meeting Tbcsday, he got up during public comment and chastised the board: “Get off your dead butts and get out to your people that elected you.” “You’ve got 60 days to pull all this infor­ mation together and put something together and make a decision and this and that,” Brown said. “I can tell you right now. if you put both of them (jail and COA) on there, “You’ve got 60 days to pull all this information together and put something together and make a decision and this and that. I can tell you right now, if you put both of them (jail and COA) on there, they’ll both go down the tubes.” Jim Brown, Hastings Charter Township Supervisor HtF" T—-------- — ----- ■. they’ll both go down the tubes.” He pointed out that the first forum took place in the city of Hastings, which has about 13 percent of the county’s population. He attended that forum and was underwhelmed by the turnout. Plus, the people who attended were not the people they need, he said. “You’re going K> have to take this message - split the county into Four pieces and go out there with a presentation - or you’re not going to get anybody.” When commissioners replied that the next forum would take place at Thomapple Valley­ Church, he was incredulous at their assump­ tion that this location would attract a differ­ ent audience from the first one. “Five miles from the city of Hastings,” he responded. “Take it out farther, people. I’m dead serious. You expect everybody to come to you. No, you’re elected. You go to them. You campaigned to get elected. You take the message to them.” Hackman offered a presentation to the county board that he will provide to the com­ munity at the Jan. 22 forum about the range of possibilities for COA and jail building projects. Tlie range of possibilities, he esti­ mated, involve a lowest cost option of reno­ vating and adding to the existing COA struc­ ture for a cost $3.78 million for a 20.000-square-foot structure to the highest cost project, which would be a new 25.000-square-foot greenfield building for $8.33 million. Meanwhile, the jail/sheriff’s office, with costs depending on number of beds and square footage and site chosen, would range from a low of $21.8 million for a (108-bed jail) project utilizing the existing site to $285 million for the largest facility (160-bed jail) on a new greenfield site. City grapples with end-of-life IT issues Rebecca Pierce Editor The report card for Hastings’ information technology system is not good. In fact, it’s “dam near an emergency,” city council members agreed. “We all need to understand, we have dug ourselves into 4° infrastructure hole,” city clerk/treasurer T'ine $aunnan told the council Monday. “We’re in a hole. We need to dig ourselves out.” Out of eight IT areas that were graded, five were judged as “degraded,” one was “OK,” two were “good.” The servers and storage are good, as is backup and recovery, representatives from Aunalytics, formerly Secant of Kalamazoo, told city council members Monday. The company’s chief technology officer, Alex Ellingson, said the city’s network wireless access points are end of life and do not support modern Wi-Fi standards and speeds. Network point-to-point at the public works and fire departments and water treatment plant are low speed. Hardware is failing and many are on Windows 7, which is end-of-support. Security is a concern, and the current oneday-a-month support model is not keeping up with issues and does not provide for timely resolution of problems, Ellingson said. “Some of it is about to go,” he said. “We’re going to use this tern), h’s a scary term: End of life. EOL. It’s something the manufacturer says when they say, ‘We don’t support it any mote. We won’t provide updates tor it; most importantly, security updates.’... So, every day something is past end of life, it’s riskier.” The council spent more than two hours Monday in a meeting that started at noon to address concerns about the need for IT system upgrades. Council members agreed they all must share the blame for failing to replace the equipment when replacements had been scheduled. “I’m blaming this council for budgeting something and not seeing it was bought,” See ISSUES, page 3 �residents sound off at special public hearing Pape 2 — TlMxsday. January 16. 2020 — The Hastings Banner Yankee Spri ' Greg Chandler Staff Writer >• The threat of freezing rain didn’t deter nkujt 50 Yankee Springs Township residents tnxv attending a special meeting Saturday to speak their mind* on the proposed $898,500 FV’novaiion and expansion of the township hall oO North Briggs Road. - Mort of those in attendance continued to Impress their displeasure over the project cost, the lack of detail of how the work will be funded, and the lack of public input before board members voted 3-2 in October 2019 to mdse ahead with tlie project. The board hired the architectural firm Fleis &. VandenBrink. at a cost of $95,500, to provide design development services,construction documents and bid documents for the project. Additional criticism Saturday was directed at the makeup of the renovation committee that recommended the project. Only one of the three board members who voted to approve the contract - Trustee Larry Knowles - was present for Saturday’s special public hearing. Clerk Jan Lippert and Treasurer Alice Jansma, who also voted yes, were absent. Their absence did not go unnoticed by some residents who attended the bearing. "(Of] the three people who voted this $900,000-some odd expenditure on this board, one’s here. Two others aren’t." resident Bob Gcnther said. "We’ll call it ‘inclement weather.’ I call it something else. The whole problem is, Larry. they decided - Jan. Alice and you, and the committee, hand-picked decided you know you have three votes, come to this meeting, shove it through. That’s why we’re all here.” Conceptual plans for the project call for renovating the nearly 4,000-square-foot township hall, which was built in 1971, and adding 1,727 square feet to the north of the building. The renovation would include restoration of the exterior masonry, addition of a new exit door to the south side of tlie building, creation of a conference room, a wide ramp that would comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, a new heating and cooling system, a new closet to house the township’s information technology­ server and ceiling-mounted monitors that would allow both the public and board members to see information presented from the podium at board meetings. The office addition would include a separate entrance from the meeting room entrance, service windows for the clerk and treasurer, along with private offices for the supervisor, clerk, assessor and future zoning Administrator. The project details came out of concerns expressed by members of the renovation committee, Knowles said. "The assessor's office needed to be enlarged. They thought the assessor couldn’t eVen discuss anything with anybody because they would be stuck in the doorway ... they thought the treasurer’s office was too small,” he; said. "Then it was brought in that they wanted to secure the building to keep people out in case there was a problem. Then they added in the fact that they wanted both the treasurer and clerk to be able to service that area in case one of them wasn’t there.” Among the members of that committee jvere Knowles, Jansma, Lippert, township assessor Dan Scheuerman, deputy clerk Marge VanderMcyden, deputy treasurer Deb Rousseau and voter registration clerk Nancy Near, according to meeting minutes. Knowles defended the work of the group, saying the meetings were open to the public. < "Everything was in the open, in public meetings. Nobody came to those meetings. Thai’s why you didn’t know there was a renovation going on,” he said. . Township resident Ron Heilman took the board to task for moving ahead with contracting with Fleis & VandenBrink for developing detailed plans and specs for the project without having an idea of how to pay for it. He said the price lag for tlie project is going to be "considerably more" than the amount that’s been quoted if the township has to sell bonds to finance the work. "If anybody thinks we’re going to build a million-dollar addition and it’s only going to cost a million dollars, they’ve been sleeping under a rock," said Heilman, who serves on the township zoning board of appeals. "If bonds are an iffy situation and probably the best way we could go. why didn't they sit down and figure out what we’re going to do as a board for financing this thing before they even presented it and passed it?" he added. Resident Mike Cunningham disagreed, saying the township is in a good position to finance the project. Cunningham had attended a special meeting in late November 2019 where township officials met with Baker —- ■■■*—---------------------------- ——----------, About 50 resident*; attend the special meeting Saturday at Yankee Springs Township Hall regarding the proposed renovation an Yankee Springs resident Mike Cunningham addresses the board. expansion of hall. Yankee Springs Supervisor Mark Englerth (left) talks to a township resident during a break in Saturday’s meeting. Township Trustee Larry Knowles speaks out in support o’the hall renovation and expansion. Tilly, a firm that works with municipalities to evaluate their finances in preparation for projects such as the one proposed in Yankee Springs. "When you go out to look for a new car or a new house, do you know exactly how you’re going to finance it before you even know the cost?" Cunningham asked. "Tlie cart before the horse (argument] is not applicable here. I think the people who did this knew in their head that yes. we can afford it, so they started moving in that direction.” At that Nov. 20 meeting. Baker Tilly representatives suggested the idea of the township paying $300,000 out of its reserves and financing the rest of the project cost, most likely over 10 years. Tlie township has more than $1 million in general fund reserves, Jansma said at that meeting. Township Supervisor Mark Englerth said that while the hall renovation and expansion might not lead to a tax increase, he said financing the project may keep the township from addressing other needs, such as a firetruck or road improvements. "$600,000 is $600,000. If you remove it from the general fund, it will limit what we’re doing for die next 10 years,” he said. Knowles had offered in the fall to re-form the renovation committee to gel more residents involved, but Englerth didn’t see the point of doing that. "The citizens of this township (are] a committee,” Englerth said. "They pushed for this meeting. Thank you all for coming. I wish there would have another 100 people but on a day like today, this is a good thing.” Some in the audience agreed renovation of the hall is needed, but suggested the work could be done at a lesser cost. Rob Hecthuis, former president of the Gun Lake Protective Association, said "renovation is fiscally responsible.” "If $900,(XX) is too much, I don’t disagree with that,” Hcethuis said. "But I heard Township resident Bob Genther explains his opposition to the project. everybody say there are certain things that this building needs, so let’s figure out what they are and what it should cost." Englerth called for additional special meetings to give residents a chance to provide input into the project. "I think what we’re doing now is backing up and saying. ‘What are the options?’ I don’t have any certain agenda, but if you don’t think outside the box, we’re probably not going to come up with'the bed solutionhe *aid. "There are dozens of thing* y°u can do ■ • rent a space, knock the whole building down, remodel this - it don’t matter. Be creative. I want you to challenge the board will) some ideas.” "---------- - "------ --------nmbers of the township board who attended the meeting The throe m shanon Vandenberg listen to constituents. Englerth and Trustee LatTy Knowles (from left), Sup®(V's0f Mafk City sets table for 2020 Rebecca Pierce The city has new personnel on board, including Jerry Czarnecki, city manager, Jane Editor The City of Hastings has a new mayor pro Saurman. clerk/treasurer; and Malt Gergen. director of public services. tern. “In 2020. we hope to finish our five-year John Rcssiguie was elected as pro tern during the city council’s organizational meet­ master plan and major improvements to our wastewater treatment plant, resurfacing ing Monday night. Councilman Don Smith nominated streets. and address a recreational marijuana Rcssiguie. Then Al Jarvis nominated current ordinance as well as an ordinance to regulate small cell antennas in the city.” Mayor Pro Tern Bill Redman. Voting for Rcssiguie were Thercse Maupin“I look forward to our success in 2020,” Moore, Brenda McNabb-Stange, Don Bowers, Tossava said. “The state of the city is good.” Don Smith, Jim Cary, and Mayor David In other business, the council: Tossava. • Approved regular meetings for the second Redman and Jarvis voted for Redman. and fourth Mondays of each month, except Tossava delivered a brief State of the City Memorial Day. That week, the city council address, reviewing the high points of 2019, in will meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 25. which record numbers attended the city’s top • Approved elected officials’ salaries as events: the Barry-Roubaix, jazz festival and recommended: $7,800 per year paid monthly Gus Macker 3-on-3 basketball tournament. to the mayor, $2,500 per year paid quarterly The planning commission continued its to the mayor pro-tem; $2,300 per year paid work on the city’s master plan, which has four quarterly to council members and $115 per key sections: Downtown, housing, industrial meeting paid to board of review members. and infrastructure. • Approved Stephanie Fekkes and the “The section that is getting the most atten­ Rhoades McKee law firm for city attorney tion and will make the most impact is the and boards and commissions (see separate housing section." Tossava noted, mentioning list). Barry-Eaton District Health Department that four proposed housing units are currently was chosen as health officer for a one-year underway that will increase the city’s housing term expiring Dec. 31. slock by 200 to 300 units. • Approved city manager appointments of “And we expect more to happen in the Jeff Pratt as deputy city manager/police chief/ future.” emergency management coordinator, Roger "The planning commission continues to Caris as fire chief/fire marshal and Americans modify ordinances to make the city more with Disabilities Act coordinator; Jane attractive to investors, residential and busi­ Saurman as clerk/treasurer/dircctor of finance nesses." he added. and Freedom of Information Act coordinator, A successful audit was just completed Dan King as community development dircc^ which gives them a better look at financial tor, Dan Kirwin as city assessor, and Gergen developments which, hopefully, will include as director of public services. Czarnecki was road and infrastructure improvements. appointed as Title VI coordinator. Hastings earns national fluoridation quality award Tlie Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Wednesday announced today that 51 water systems in Michigan, including Hastings, have been awarded a Waler Fluoridation Quality Award from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hie award recognizes communities that maintained a consistent level of optimally fluoridated water throughout 2018. A total of 1,656 waler systems in 30 stales received the award. Other area communities or systems receiving the award were Allegan, Battle Creek-Verona System, Grand Ledge, Lowell Water Treatment Plant. Marshall. Otsego and Wayland. Fluoridation is tlie adjustment of fluoride in water to a level optimal for preventing tooth decay. It has been recognized by CDC as one of 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century. The CDC recommends water fluoridation as u safe, effective and method of preventing decay. Research s that every $1 invested in fluoridation s** • least $38 in costs for dental treatment. , “Michigan consistently exceeds recommendations for community supplies by having 90 percent o population on community waler accessing fluoridated water,” J*- J(' hl(f Khaldun, chief medical executive an .Q deputy for health for MDHHS. Wednesday’s press release. "These b). demonstrate the commitment 1° tiua these community water system*8 fluoridation benefits all reside . community, and it has demons effectiveness in preventing loOt throughout one's lifetime.” . More information on ci fluorination can be found on the CI �UNANIMOUS, continued from page 1 excited to go Io school," she said, urging commissioners to be empathetic. Americans have so much comfort that they can’t fathom the deprivations these children experience. Cross said. '‘They're my heroes." she said. “I wish you could meet them all.” Joel Ibbotwn of Rutland Charter Township said he didn't object to refugees, but he has a problem with any organization that has a relationship with the United Nations. "Our county should run from any involvement with the U.N., let alone sign an unconditional letter of consent." Ibbotson said, calling the U.N. "an evil, wicked Elspeth Inglis Mark Bonsignore Heidi Cross organization." Gan Munson ol Delton echoed the ebj.-cii.m, siijini: any vetting done by the U N, is a concern. -And the depth of the vetting is unknown; that is a concern." Munson added. ‘The terrorists could infiltrate the system; that is a concern. Are documents of each refugee , available for review?" He posed .several questions as to whether the county would be able to select the country or culture of the refugee and whether the county would be required to accept any other refugees in the future. "President Trump's executive order requires local and state government to give “Directly after the events of (he Nativity. official consent. Should this resettlement Mary and Joseph had to five with their infant issue include the consent of the townships?" son in order to save his |jfc ’phey were Some counties already have refused. refugees. 1 wonder what would have happened Munson said, adding. “The entire state of to Christianity if they had not had that ability Texas has refused ... as they already have a to save their son?’ burdened and broken immigration system.’’ Charles Hertzler of Hastings said. "I’m a In any case, a fully vetted anti-American true believer in God. I hope I’m a child of should not be considered. Munson said. Christ. I believe w e should take these refugees ‘‘'Die homeless and needy of the county and stull in. But we have to beware of the should be considered first," he said. wolf in sheep’s clothing. >ti [xx>k at Ben Eastman of Hastings Charter [Minnesota’s U.S. Rep. Ilhan Abdullahi) Township had a different view. Omar and these refugees in Congress. They’re “Refugees fill an important role in our against everything that this country has ever economy." he told the board. “Refugees have stood for. They condemn the president and helped make our country and the world a Israel, and these were refugees that came here better place.... I call upon your humanity and and we raised. duly to the citizens of this country to help to ‘These were refugees who came here with provide a better future for these refugees and an ulterior motive. We need to actually have a fellow human beings and approve this letter." belter veiling system. We have to pay attention Elspeth Inglis of Barry Township referred to the people we bring into this country'. We to her family. Annenians who survived need to pay attention or we’re Jelling the devil Hitler’s slaughter because they sought refuge in io take care of this Christ-driven country.” in America. Deidra Fox of Hastings said, “I hadn’t “Were it not for the people who took in my planned on sharing, bul some of the comments aunt, who helped my grandmother, I would have kind of stirred me a little bit.” not be here today." she said. "... I have felt Fox said she provided a home for two strongly about this for years." boys from Guatemala when they didn’t have She has been helping refugee family from any opportunities. Syria and acting as a mentor for the past three "I don’t think the answer is to be afraid of years. taking a chance and try ing this — or closing "What 1 see in this family is a desire for our doors. It’s what America is based on. We peace and the welfare of their own family. 1 are the land of the free, home of the brave. hope that we do not turn our backs - as Hitler “I would ask that we’re very cautious with claimed the world did on Annenians ... on the the definition of ‘taking care of our ow n.’ To refugees of today. I support the letter." me as a Christian woman, taking care of my Mark Bonsignore. of Fair luike in Barry own is not just the people within this Township, said the refugee question made community. It really is a world thing. him think of the Nativity recently displayed “I’m in favor [of the letter of consent). We on the courthouse lawn. Cody Hayes Jane Trejo Charles Hertzler Deidra Fox should allow these people to come, and we should provide loving homes for them.” Larry' Bass of Carlton Towmship told the board he had thoroughly researched the issue and found that 42 stales have already approved the directive. Michigan is among the states that have approved it. "Nationally, 1 can find only three counties that have said ‘no.’" said Bass, who made it clear he’s in favor of resettling refugees in the county. Bul he advised the board to put n limit on the number and be specific that the consent applies only for this calendar year. ‘That would solve most of the issues,” he said, “and we can revisit this thing on a yearly basis.’’ Bass urged commissioners to act, one w-ay or another, since an omission might result in Pompeo deciding for them. Board members scrutinized the details, questioned Jane Trejo, Bethany’s refugee employment program manager, who attended Tuesday’s meeting, and worked out a revised letter that all could agree on. The final wording of the letter doesn’t mention Bethany Christian Services. The letter also doesn’t specify minors, since putting that condition on a placement could be construed as discriminatory' on the basis of age. Trejo said. Conner had expressed concern about Bethany not making any outreach efforts in the county. "Because we’re not doing resettlement, we have no need to reach out to Barry County.” Trejo responded. “We haven’t placed anyone here yet.” Bass Gary Munson Bethany has never before placed refugee adults or families in Barry' County, she said, nor docs it intend to do so anytime soon. . “We have no intention of doing family resettlement in Barry County,” she told commissioners. “We don’t have people here to do that.” .. According to Trejo, one family in the county is currently licensed for placement of an unaccompanied minor refugee. Conner read from an email sent to the county board by Ben Cabanaw, the state’s refugee coordinator: “I want to assure you. we at state have no intentions of branching into adult or family resettlement in Barry- County;. “Additionally, it also would be my expectation that our resettlement agencies would meet with me and public officials, schools and health departments prior to consideration of a resettlement plan in a new area." The letter unanimously approved by the county board read as follows: .. Dear Secretary Pompeo: . This letter is in reference to Executive Order 13888, On Enhancing State and Local Involvement in Refugee Resettlement. As Chairperson of the Barry- County Board of Commissioners, I consent to up to five initial refugee resettlements in Barry County for the calendar year 2020. I understand my written consent will be publicly released by (He Department of State. Sincerely. Heather Wing Chairperson, Barry County­ Board of Commissioners ISSUES, continued from page 1 Brenda McNabb-Stange said. “We have to take the blame for this.... It wasn’t followed up on. We don’t have any system [to ensure upgrades are) in place. I harped on Jeff Mansfield all the time: ‘Let us know- what the status is.’ And we never got it.” Saurman said, “We need to have a phut moving forward. It needs to become a part of operation and maintenance. When it is a capital spending item, it becomes a ‘has to.’ not a ‘want to’ or ‘wish I could.”’ Capital spending items typically get kicked down the road, she said. When those costs become part of operation and maintenance, they are more likely to happen. ‘The other costs we really have to keep in mind is what we’re losing every- day" with substandard IT systems. Saurman added. The city currently has a 36-month contract with Aunalytics for pre-scheduled technical support visits that cost the city $1,722 a month. Instead of those monthly visits, the company is proposing a technical support arrangement that would upgrade overall service, beef up security, and address any- IT problems more efficiently at a monthly cost. The cost to address degraded areas would total a one-time cost of $15220. Recurring costs of $6,815 a month would address those areas and provide Aunalytics’ SiteCare360 program which would prioritize the city’s requests for service. Advanced anti­ virus and anti-malware and patch management software solutions would be part of that P Thecity recently migrated its server from nC ; ,n cloud-based through Aunaly tics. O/!'-Ph hosts nine virtual servers and provides wl! l 1 llir. virus and malware protection, da,|yb^up.)''-|iiiadininiMril|1,)l) • Bui' when *hey lean,ed of lhc nee<* for 11 mfnde^system upgrade, explana,ion °>008,8 and timin9 ,or «’e recom- major upgrade, several council members expressed concents about not seeking bids on the project. Saurman was asked to do some research to find out what other companies would charge City Manager Jerry Czarnecki was i|] and unable io attend the meeting, but Deputy City Manager Jeff Pratt said staff would explore possible options an return to thc council with information W answer questions posed during the meeting. Saurman said s u Wqujj scrutinize the city’s spending P,an <o see if some of the additional costs’ fr°m an 1 p upgrajt. could be absorbed to minnmze the financial blow to the budget. Aunalytics Chief Technology Officer Alex Ellingson offers a presentation to the city council Monday. The company, which has a 36 month-conlract with the city, has had a business relationship with Hastings for years. $1,5M recycling quality improvement grants available! Recycling p-nvJI\)nmcnt, Great Lakes, Department o pf|v.ring a new 2020 grant and Energy 1 5 million to communiopportunity to ve material quaJily in ties seeking 1 jJe and diop-off recycling residential cl,r released Monday. Jan. 6. Applications are due Friday, Feb. 28. Any Michigan municipality, township, county or regional authority representing J group of communities currently operating a lion. Funding education and c signage. and contamination. The grants am u*d for cart tagging, ilIe4tion. social media, ‘eucs al reducing i0 bui Id on the suc- launched last year to better inform Michigander* on what can - and cannot - be recycled and how to recycle correctly. To inform stakeholder* and answer ques­ tions about this grant opportunity, The am. �Did you see? Online shopping burying us in waste No ped x-ing here The entrance to the pedestrian bridge . Idon park tn Hastings has been subT>dg bv Mother Nature this week. r^na to the National Weather According station in i Hastings rain fell Friday Hastings. ci.nriav Water levels !emain high throuohout the region. Don't ^away^ the umbrella. Local weather .. . forecasts are predicting a high of 39 degrees with a 90 percent chance ol ram $nd snow Saturday. Hl-'n- dedicating this space “ P1"'"'' graph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Parry County. If sou hat. a photo to share, please send it toNewsroom Hastings Banner. 1351 N.M-43 Htgh^. Hastings. Ml or e,uni newstsij-adgraphies.com. Please imfafc information '«<// where and m an < photo was taken, who took the photo, and other relevant or anecdotal information. Banner March 29. 19/2 • There's nothing like little kids to bring smiles to the faces of others, and these youngsters from Mrs. Carles Smith's Play School did just that for the residents of the Provincial House in Hastings. Among those singing specially seeded songs were (from left) Erin Jacobs. Melinda Konieczny, Abby Reaser, Pamela Wendt. Beverly DeCamp, Priscilla DolenAmy Huntley, Ann Willison, Nancy Hudson. Mary Walton and Kristin Matthews. Others, not pictured included Phillip Strong andjohnny Stack. Have you i met? ; Hastings is a community of traditions and ‘/mail businesses taking care of local resi­ dents. young and old. Don Eichholz. phar­ macist and owner of Hastings Pharmacy, understands that pride. ; A resident of Barry County his entire life. Eichholz. 38. was born in Pennock Hospital and grew up in Hickory Comers. He is the son of Donald and Cathy (Armintrout) Eichholz and the middle child of three. His qlder sister, Christina Neale, 41. lives in Shelbyville, and younger sister. Cherie Booms, 37, lives in Lansing. Eichholz attended Gull Lake schools and graduated in 2000. His interests in high school were primarily martial arts. “I was really into basketball, but got cut every year,” he said. “It was my obsession, really, so what I really did was martial arts all through school." He was a member of the Black Lynx Karate Association, a small program run by the father of a friend. Eichholz reached the level of black belt by his senior year. He went to Ferris State University, gradu­ ating from an accelerated pharmacy program that required him to attend classes yearround. He and his wife. Pamela. 37. met in college She. l<x>. is a pharmacist. After graduating from Ferris, Eichholz went to work as a traveling consultant phar­ macist for a division of Borgess Ascension in Kalamazoo. The job required him to travel all over the Lower Peninsula, going to nurs­ ing homes, meeting with doctors, reviewing medical charts and improving the medication regimes for patients. “I loved that job. It was a great, great job,” he said. “Il was interesting, and I had no intent of leaving. It was going to be my career forever.” He was a traveling pharmacist from 2(X)8 until 2014. “And then 1 got a call the day after my wedding from guys that I knew - pharma­ cists. independent owners that I’d known and worked for in tlie past ~ telling me that Bosley Pharmacy in Hustings had closed. That was big news in the pharmacy world,” he said "livery industry has its ow n informa­ tion network, and Bosley Pharmacy's closing onened up a huge opportunity. I hat news X a big enough deal that lor this to happen, the pharmacy «»rld |>eihe<l up and satd, f nt Star Elementary found rvn..«- white ones, e\nts< and 0,1/1 now tlAW blue BIlJC 1 lit-SC were "uhc beginning of something Brown ones, ones, all delivering packages to what seems U we’re help- ; like every front porch in America. It's the Huge“I think it was go<xl * der Bryce new way to’shop. ing the world we live m. fifth-gmder Bry Online shopping offers the convenience of putting everything from furniture in the living room to food in the dog dish, all with­ out leaving the keyboard at the kitchen rates among the Great Lak table. But now, with the new blue Amazon in. „ ”b” I””” “ rf'n.ro Prime vans joining the fleet of w hite FedEx S&SSC-IS.-* trucks and UPS “Big Brown” haulers, it’s not the extra traffic clogging up our neigh­ ”z borhoods that should have us concerned as in£;“:x much as the environmental costs not show­ people the importance of recycling . ing up in our online virtual checkout bas­ impact it will have on future generations kets. In another article in Saturday s Retnindtr Amazon, the e-commerce giant, reported “Contamination, shaky markets top recy­ that its July 15-16 Prime Day Sale, a Black cling challenges." J-Ad contributing write . Friday-like discount day in 2019, was the Christian Yonkers wrote about thc eff“‘ biggest shopping event in the company’s history . During a 36-hour period, customers that recycling can have on the overall chai- I purchased more than 100 million products lenge to impact climate change. Accordins to the ground-breaking that needed to be shipped. To its credit, even research initiative by Project Drawdown, a I Amazon, by far the largest shipper and pro­ ducer of waste, acknowledges what a stress nonprofit organization and coalition of I that event alone put on the health of our worldwide and renowned scholars, scien- I lists, entrepreneurs and advocates dedicated environment. The company has been looking for alter­ to reversing global w arming, out of the 100 I natives to cardboard, which takes more most substantive solutions to reversing cli­ space and contributes to the waste stream. mate change, household recycling is the The lightweight plastic mailers they’ve 55th most effective means of reducing car- I been using as an alternative, however, have bon emissions, with industrial recycling just I caused problems for material processors behind. Now. with the exponential increase in I because the plastic is not recyclable and plugs up the mechanical recycling systems. online shopping, the amount of additional In the company's effort to be environmen­ waste will continue to pur even more pres­ tally conscious, Amazon has announced it is sure on landfills. Brown said a wealth of testing a fully-recyclable cushioned mailer knowledge, creativity and technology that can be mixed in to pa|>er recycling sys­ already exist to provide solutions to the tems. Until it comes up with the solution, growing crisis, but he added that all of our though, the demand of American consumers communities must work with waste haulers I I for online, deliverable products continues to to make recycling streams more efficient. That means we must focus on how wre I swell. Another growing environmental chal­ handle the waste by following instructions lenge has been the expedited shipping craze to belter prepare the waste for processors, itself, which means packages aren’t being making sure contaminants such as plastic consolidated with other shipping companies bags and Styrofoam don’t end up in die mix. like the U.S. Postal Service. UPS and Processors face the economic ch.illenges of FedEx. Instead of coordinated, single routes marketing the recycled material, so keeping each day to reduce the amount of traffic, the stream clean of certain items makes a each company is running up and down the difiercnee in the value of the product w hen same roads so as to get packages delivered they take it to market To Brovyn, the best solution is moving | in a timely manner. This .expansion of the shipping business and more packages is 1from a single-stream process to a sorted I drastically increasing the amount of packag­ stream. For several years, Hastings Charter I ing waste, which researchers caution is Township has been operating a sorted recy- I adding more congestion to our cities, pollut­ cling unit. It’s the only sorted recycling I ants to our air and cardboard to our landfills. system being used by a municipality in the I Our bottom line and on-time culture, county. Brown said he hopes the Hastings I however, certainly docs not seem con­ Township model will inspire similar sta- I cerned. Free and fast shipping, which is the lions elsewhere in the county. He conceded that there are no easy I Amazon Prime customers' big perk, has attracted more than 100 million subscribers answers, but you have to start somewhere. I who are willing to pay SI 19 annually for the By working w ith local schools, he figures I convenience. A recent UPS study indicates he can inspire our youth as to the impor- I that nearly all (96 percent) U.S. customers tance of recycling and saving the planet. I who made a purchase on a marketplace such What belter place to start than al our schools I as Amazon or other major retailer said "free where students learn about the impact that I or discounted shipping" was their primary waste has on the environment and what they I can do to promote recycling for all of us? I reason for purchase. So, as consumers make more online pur­ Brown told the story of a Star Elementary chases. it appears their communities will be student who asked him what her class could I left with even more waste, not to mention do to recycle Amazon shipping boxes in I what online shopping is doing to our com­ addition to pizza boxes. munity retailers. Those local businesses "It’s amazing to me that a girl that young who are being squeezed out by consumers is thinking that far ahead,” Brown said. choosing the cheapest price and most con­ Forward thinking, he added, is the key to venient delivery - are the core of a commu­ a circular economy - and part of the solunity that pays local taxes and supports so lion could be making recycling more visual­ many community activities. Amazon and ly appealing. "If you want grown-ups to recycle, just | other online retailers don’t carry that obliga­ tion or philanthropic concern, a perspective tell their kids the importance of recycling, that’s needed on local levels where commu­ and they’ll be all over it," said Bill Nye.the nities are now grappling with what to do Science Guy, longtime host of the PBS chil­ with all the waste. dren’s science program of the same name. Recently, the Barry’ County Board of One thing is for sure, it’s a problem that Commissioners asked Barry County 's Solid needs solutions, so it’s imperative that lead­ Waste Oversight Committee, a 12-member ership at all levels of local government work body of local leaders, to work on a plan to together to find answers that will be accept­ raise Barry County’s recycling rate by get­ able to more citizens throughout the county ting recyckibles out of the waste stream. because it’s the right thing to do. " The real value of recycling lies in waste 1 suggest that, if you haven’t read the diverted from landfills, which translates into special articles in last week’s Reminder. more land saved for the enjoyment of cur­ lake the time to educate yourself about a rent and future generations,” Hastings program that s in the best interest of us all Township Supervisor Jim Brown said. . 4cycling. For more information on "Plus, focusing on recycling plays a major .in?x allend iHe Barry County Solid role in reducing carbon emissions, a green­ exninr»n S.erS*u Committee meetings, house gas nearly universally accepted as a rWebsite Barry County.urg^Barnfactor in climate change.” JimI^Re^’eS' °r *Brow'n. lax-al students are accepting that chal­ JimBroun33«vslx:g|ubaLneL lenge by learning the importance of recy­ cling at their school. Last week’s Reminder featured a group of students from Star Elementary in Hastings who told how- they collected enough pizza boxes to equal the height ol the Statue ol Liberty - that's 2.(XX) pizza boxes stacked 305 feet high. I heir personal quest to save the planet after months of collecting boxes was successful, and now they've increased their goal to 3,(XX) boxes. "Ohen. when you think you’re at the end ol something, you're at the beginning of something else,” the late children’s televi­ Fred Jacobs, CEO sion presenter Fred Rogers said. J-Ad Graphics Inc Don Eichholz ’Who’s going to be the first to go in and try to bring that back to this town?* “I .uckily. I guess you could say. it was us,” Eichholz said But not without initial shock. He was about to go on his honeymoon and suddenly faced a huge decision and potential opportu­ nity. Go ahead with the trip, he was told, bul come back with an answer. Walgreens had bought out Bosley Pharmacy, but another corporate pharmacy in the city could not replace the hometown feel of the successful pharmacy the late Dave JasjK’rse had built. Someone else would move in if Eichholz duh) t. The town was really naxinp tor us because «e Marled out really Mnau . jus( |ne and Kes.n, tichholz said, telerring to Ku j„ Dtektnson. a plu^y k.ch(lician ;(„(| fw nur Bosky employee, who hi. been at Hastings Pharmacy since Day 1. ' You could almost leel people's excite mem to get a chance again," Eichholz. said A lot ol peop e thought we weren't u, make It. though, because Walgreen, ,‘s a huee playet. of course, ns w,U a, the other pin,, ■uacies m town So. it was ,11|(;^ combination of (people bcingl excited and like ‘Go get ’em!’ But could also feel like there were a lot of people Hint thought that we weren't going toruke it.” They did and now have eight employees, added a drive-through expanded the office. Outside of working at the pharmacy. Eichholz said he doesn’t h-~c much time for hobbies. He and Pamela live in the Hastings area, and he enjoys w orking outdoors on his property. For his dedication main#®*0? n commu­ nity tradition and his commilnienl to help others with healthcare need-'- Don Eichholz is this week's Banner Bright Light. Favorite superhero: Ca?tait‘ America. He always did the right ihmg. n0 matter what. You have other tuperf«rvX’s who had that dark side, but he didn’t. He always stuck to what he knew was ri«»htFavorite movie: • TjrminM 11 " 1 don! J-now why . It jUst seemed |lke il has ahvay s hung on as far as great movW'’- Wh,cn! m nipping through channels in")’* “ 1 m like, "I gotta watch itr . If I were president: I wouMM’v'don 1 !>se ,„y soul. That would I* b,1pge? ear. I think a lot of lh,.... ,IaIt out g«xl •••A lot ol people, when they ab0'." ,ll.al stuff, they would want to N likc C a|,*a,n America: Just do the ri.-hl thing111 ,hc "l”C; If I could build imvthMilf you hiu asked me five years ago’ would have said a s“'d business. Bu; hal',al'v'adU’aP' S.S°nm' »«l gift ever don t actually eive , . ............ -Ueei^ M) wife and 1 u, eifts-11 s atlu' Foe ^h other are mX in^ Favorite childh.^ > ,„rv: h’s not ^•ally a specific tZ’" ''^iK a P^1 »l time when I w,t ,W , lie-” Gul1 1 ake. My family was8n’7'”'i.J ua'l,ine comparison to quitc lC*v IdenJs wb° ‘r1Wg fancy h^«'# )^e Mends mine would rather '’s* af housc ’'>a»in«heirb1f.fX^nd,,n^tnavbc d>ey thought my h™, '”,ne than theirs did'''1' fc" mon-' of •' Continued next P&e X �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 16, 2920 County’:s foster parent Luke Froncheck . . Staff Writer Firn Click, the Barry Coumv n »■ Human Services director, oversee, “ and and placement of children in the conn'" Can: Click said there arc 21 lie homes in the county and. typicallv^ f°slcr 40 and 50 children in the foster cm' ’ bclWcen Barry County at any given timc SyMCm in "We re always trying to fit ih„ „ . . child with the foster home.” Cl.ck^a d^n" wx-’re always trying to place the kidA ?h“* county from which they came." ” lhc "We could always use nrorv he said. “We don’t have much difX^" »ng kids, but wc’rc always looking for more foster homes." Among those children served by the loster care system are those who have been abused and neglected by their parents. The first con­ sideration for these children, Click said, is to place them with relatives. Statewide, 58 percent of all foster children are placed with relatives. Family members are not always licensed, but. once they become licensed, sometimes they will foster other children as well. If placing a child with a relative is not an option, the next goal would l>e to place the child in a home so they remain in the same always looking for more school dl Systcnis of alcohol or drugs and unable to properly professionals. Assuming the foster parents would then be able u, to bring bring IK i.. havemay already n. a child, is supervise the child or if the parent’s addiction When the/ P family ^ays seek becomes a hindrance to proper care of the in a child. , lunriavs The entire process usually ,a^e* . ..j( homes that !’j. pceds as u [Sphere that child ihen that may be a reason for removal. but Click said he ’ s seen it done m <wy• Click said. really depends on how proactive i « •’’’P * As of October 2019, there were 13,108 foster parents are regarding their app i • children in foster care system statewide. “In the vast majority of cases. adoption is process." Some may enter the foster care prt g • . not the goal," MDHHS Public Information with the hope of becoming eventual adoptive Officer Bob Wheaton said. parents of the child they bring into their • abuse prohl«’n- (.$ subM 'File purpose of the foster system is to . But the pafCof abuse must reunify children with their parents once the home. However, Click explained that or child to be adoptable their parents must firs endanger the*vcd fro hl'd before (hat environment is deemed safe, Wheaton said. ci’i,dr,,Tthc p^-'is % ho,',cp<ir Foster parents aren't expected to pay all the have their parental rights revoked, it s no example, d ,’1C Cr influence costs for the child they take in, depending on until then that the child is deemed adoptable. Click added that tho>e w ho want to help but the child’s age and needs, according to Click, Foster children also can attend daycare. The arc unable to become foster parents can cost of day care service will be reimbursed to always volunteer locally at recruitment events, they can take children to and from appoint­ the foster parents. The contact is 855-MICHKIDS for those ments, or donate parenting time to the local interested in foster parenting. Along the way. office for the foster kids. Those interested can visit www.michigan. potential parents must attend an orientation, • have a home evaluation, take the proper train­ gov/hopeforahome for more information. ing courses, and meet with the local licensing “? »■ »--S Guest Commentary Hastings making progress on affordable housing, but multifaceted solutions are needed for success Cn'Xhh Ri'v rfaS,'n5S Nl!,nufa<:'uring/Royal Coach Riverfront development and other ongoing projects in the works, Hastings is taking some excellent first steps toward pro­ viding much-needed affordable housing options tor the community. But efforts can’t stop there. Since the housing crisis affecting the area and stale is multifaceted, there’s still more that can be done to tackle the issue and create a better future for residents. The complex housing challenges impacting the Hustings community exemplify those being experienced by nearly every communi­ ty across Michigan: Rising home costs are making homeownership unattainable and demand for aftordable housing is outpacing supply. Community leaders, government officials, and more have known this to be true for some time, albeit anecdotally. Still, the Michigan Slate Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) recently sought to provide tangi­ ble. scientific evidence of this problem. The resulting studies, The Michigan Statewide Housing Needs Assessment and The Michigan Homeownership Study, were the first of their kind in more than a decade. The findings offer a detailed look into housing and homeowner­ ship issues across Michigan. Notably. Michigan’s population is project­ ed to grow’ steadily for the foreseeable future. Over the next five years, the number of house­ holds in Michigan is expected to grow by 3 percent, and between 2020 and 2045, house­ holds are expected to increase by 11 percent. The west side of the stale will experience an even larger influx, with the long-term number of households expected to grow by 17 per­ cent. In Barry Couniy. the current number of households is nearly 24,000, while the num­ ber of total housing units is close to 27.500 - almost all of which are already occupied. According to MSHDA’s research, the house­ hold composition also will change over time, resulting in higher numbers of one- and two-person households. Coupled with many existing single-family homes being converted to rentals, and very quickly the housing sup­ ply in the area will struggle to meet demand. What do you David Allen Alongside the number of housing units is the affordability factor. Any household spend­ ing more than 30 percent of its income on housing-related costs is considered cost-bur­ dened. Currently, the median household income in Barry County is $61,016. which provides enough money to afford a $198,000 house. However, according to Zillow, the median price for a pre-owned home through Nov. 30. 2019 was S218/UX), with home values pre­ dicted to rise by nearly 4 percent within the next year. The median sales price for a new single-family home is 64 percent higher. All these findings aren’t meant to diminish the progress already happening in the area. Rather, these arc intended to illustrate the multifaceted nature of the affordable housing crisis. Unfortunately, a one-size-fils-all solu­ tion doesn’t exist, and community leaders must address lacking affordable housing options from a variety of angles to continue effecting positive change in the community. Some of those tools, considerations, and think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HaslingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported along with a new question the following week. Last week: The City of Battle Creek has banned use of handheld electronic devices while driving a vehicle. Do you think other cities or states should do the same to reduce accidents caused by distracted drivers? Yes 100% No 0% The Hastings For this week: An executive order requires a county’s consent before allowing the placement of unaccompanied refugee minors with licensed foster families in that community. Should Barry County accept unaccompa­ nied child refugees? □ Yes □ No Banner Devoted to the Interests of Barry County since 1856 Puttahtfd by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 /Vaws andpress releases: news&j-adgraphics.com 'Advertising:ads@iadgraphics.com Frederic Jacobs Publisher & CEO Hank ScCFhoUUring .NEWSROOM• Rebecca Pierce {Editor) AyMaure' {CopyEditor) ^Bremer {Sports Ed,tor) GregChano'o' Taylor Owens ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • C&sifed ads accfip'.td Monday f-rough Frida/ 0 30 a m. to 5 00 p m Scott Ommen Ty Greenfield Mike Gilmore Chris Silverman Jennie Yonker Subscription Rates: $45 pur year in Barry County $50 per year in adjoining counties $55 per year e’suwhere POSTMAS ITR Send add/iis changes to P.O. box Ic8 Hartings, Ml 4W56 01H3 Setxind C';J .s Pg tfapu P.,d m! Hastings MJ 4905a resources include: • Finance Tools: Access to capital i s essen­ tial to ensuring home Purchases can happen. MSHDA provides down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers. These strategies address gaps in financing and ways to enhance or restructure existing programs. • Economic Development Tools: People want to live close to employment opportuni­ ties. Strategies like employer-funded housing funds, employer locations incentives, and trade worker training programs enable busi­ nesses to thrive and attract top talent to the area. • Land Use and Zoning Tools: Communities can have more direct control of the types of homes built locally by adjusting land use. zoning codes, and permitting regulations. This can help the predictability of approvals, speed up the building of units, and lower developer risk. Rehabilitation and Preservation Tools: Sometimes, the cost to fix up a home can be more than the actual purchase price Rehabilitation loan programs, gap financing, demolition funds, and other neighborhood stabilization/preservation tools can make it easier to bring these units back on the market. Developing solutions to Michigan’s com­ plex housing issues requires us all to work together. Community leaders, businesses, housing developers, and organizations like MSHDA all play a role in continuing the progress already in motion in Hastings while addressing some of the other challenges unique to the area. Dr. David Allen is the Chief Market Analyst for the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), an organization that serves as a catalyst for housing and home­ ownership in Michigan with a focus on: 1) enabling homeownership 2) developing affordable housing 3) ending homelessness. David is the lead researcher on the Michigan Statewide Housing Needs Assessment. He earned his doctorate from the University of Washington and has worked in the affordable housing industry since 1998. DO YOU KNOW, continued from previous page Memorable example from childhood: My dad worked for Ralston Cereal until I was about 10 years old. But then he got laid off. H? had to actually be a stay-at-home dad for a period of time while my mom w ent to work in a greenhouse to help pay the bills until he changed careers. And even though he really didn’t like the idea of his wife having to do the job he was supposed to be doing, he jusl sort of knuckled under and did the housework like he was supposed io. It was really neat to see my dad al the kitchen sink doing dishes. Favorite historic period in timc: 1 am kind of a history buff*but if I were to pick any period in time 1 was lru^ fascinated with. I would have to say World War II. There is so much there as far as things people should have learned from it and didn’t, meaning soci­ ety and the ways it should have gone. But the beautiful things of how successfully they did certain things ... there s a lot there. If I could go any'vhcne in jt "ould be: Mostly I would say, just west. I haven’t seen much of the west. I’ve flown over it, but actually tne first thing that came to my mind was Hawaii. Ve went there on our honeymoon, and it was even better than 1 thought it would be. Most influential person in my life: My dad, bv far. Best advice ever received; -A gn.al namc is made by many auioiu. and de C(J . one." 1 found it nty of high school as a quote for the >c k and have used it many times since. Each week. the: Profiles a person who makes the c<muuunIly you know someone WoriU,d bc featured because of volun< fun-loving per­ sonality. lor the s s she has to tell or any other reas information to Newsroom, Having ner, x, vim-i Highway. "“Aph’ics^1 49051*: or email news^j*8^^ Empathy is alive and well here To the editor: 1 would like to express my gratitude to the Barr)’ County Board of Commissioners for unanimously voting to approve the letter to allow refugee resettlement in Barry County. This family is opening its doors to a child with no home, country, or family to otherwise take her in. This family has put many hours and a great deal of effort into being able to give a refugee child hope for a better future. The board’s vote allowed this process, which was already in place for years helping refugees, to continue. This vote showed that empathy toward our fellow human beings still exists and is, in fact, alive and well in Barry County. Ben Eastman; Hastings (write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, butthere are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks" will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • "Crossfire" letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon. Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov: U.S. mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036. Lansing Ml 48909. U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building. Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids. Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building. Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Gary Peters. Democrat. 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington. D.C. 20510­ 2202 phone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room 720. 110 Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids. Mich. 49503-2313. phone (616) 233­ 9150. . President's comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. Call any time to place your Hastings Banner classified ad 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 �Barry Township Police seeing more P«9« 6 - Thursday. January 16. 20z0 - The Hastes Banner Worship Together A ^at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churcties available for your convenience... ; , . I ; CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616-690­ ' 8609. FREEPORT BAPTIST ; CHURCH , 380 County Line Rd.. Freeport. Ml 49325. (269) 760-1928. Pastor Ron. A *traditional style of worship. - no gimmicks, and friendly ’ people welcome you to worship at "an old country * church." Sunday School * 9:45 am. Sunday Worship 11 ini. Sunday Evening 6 . p.m. Wednesday Bible * Study and Prayer 7p.m. Give us the pleasure of * meeting you! GRACE COMMUNITY t CHURCH • 8950 E. M-79 Highway. Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor • Don Roscoe, (517) 852• 1783. Sunday service 10am. . Fellowship Time before the , service. Nursery, children’s ; ministry, youth group, adult • small group ministry. • leadership training. I HASTINGS HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 2920S. M-37 Hwy. (M-37 at M-79) Pastor Kim Metter. Phone 269-945-4995. hastingshopeumc.org hastingshopeumeft gmail. com. IVe welcome YOU io join us on Sunday Mornings at J0:30 for worship! Find Us On Facebook! hastingshopeumc. ; PLEAS A NTVIEW ; FAMILYCHURCH / 2601 Lacey Road. Dowling. .* MI 49050. Pastor, Steve J Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday \ Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday $ School 11 a.m.; Sunday / Evening Service 6 p.m.; / Bible Study & Prayer Time ‘ Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. MCCALLUM UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH “5505 Otis Lake Rd., Delton, ; MI 49046. Phone: 269-623,• 8226. New pastor - Jerald , Jones. Sunday Service: 10:31-11:46; Coffee ' Connection. Nursery, * Children’s ministry. : ’ SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIA - INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in , Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. ; Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this - service), 10:30 a.m. Holy ’ Communion (each week). ' The Rector of Ss. Andrew , & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. Tlie church phone number is 269-795­ 2370 and the rectory number ■ is 269-948-9327. Our church website is www^amchurch. . org. We are part of the ' Diocese of the Great Lakes : which is in communion with . The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1674 S. State Rd.. Hastings, MI 49058 Phone 269-945­ 2285. Sunday morning service time: 10 am. with nursery and preschool available. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd , P.O. Box 273, Hastings, Ml 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifcgatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 am. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 765. (comer of Milo Rd. & S. M-43). Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to II :30am. Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 to 7:30 pm. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES church. A Spirit-filled . Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd.. Nashville. Mich. 49073 Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616-731-5194. GREEN STREET UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green St., Hastings, MI 49058. Rev. Bryce Feighner Office Phone: 269­ 945.9574. Email: office. greenstreetumcC'f gmail.com. Sunday, Schedule - The Praise 9:30 am. ; The Word 10 a.m.; The Table 10:30 am. Nursery Care is available through age 4; PreK-8th grade Sunday School 10 a.m.; Sunday School for Adults at 11 a.m. Upright Revolt Youth Ministry (6th-12th grades) 5:30-7:30 p.m. FREE Community Meal every Tuesday at 5 p.m. Refer to Facebook for weather conditions. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday. Family Night 6:30-8 p.m., AWANA (Children Kindergarten-5lh Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948­ 8004 for information on MITT (Mothers in Training Together), Sports Ministries, Quilting, Ladies Bible Study. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH Randall Bertrand. wniei cta’r accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 am. Vfonhip Time 10:30 a m Youth activities: call for information. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF HASTINGS Sharing Jesus with our community & the world! 405 N. M-37 Hwy.. Hastings. MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. www.firstchurchhaNtingL, or;. 9 a.m. Classes and Gatherings for All ages; 9:45 a.m. Worship (Children’s Worship Offered); 10:45 a.m. Coffee Fellowship: 11:15 a.m. Coffee Talk with Pastor Dan. Follow us on Facebook. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main. Woodland. Ml 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Kathy Smith. Sunday Worship 9:15 am COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand Si. Hastings. Pastor Ken Hale. Sunday School for adults and children 9:45 am.; Sunday Service 11 am. Nursery provided. Cail 269-945-9217. ebehastings. org. We are a small church, but we sen e a mighty Lord. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of Who jesus Is To The World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy., P.O. Box 8, Hastings. Telephone 269­ 945-9121. Email hastfmc® gmtiil.com. Website: www, host­ ings freemcthtKiist.com. .Pastor Brian Teed, Student Ministries Director. Emma Miller, Wor­ ship Director, Martha Stoettel Sundays: Nursery and tod­ dler (birth through age 3) care provided. SUNDAY MORN­ ING FAMILY HOUR WEL­ COMES ALL AGES AND STAGES OF LIFE AT 9:30 am. Deep Blue, Loving God. Loving Neighbor Preschool age 3-5th Grade. Live: 6th-12th Grade. Adult Standard and Adult Elective classes. Coffee Talk: Fellowship Hall. Cookies at 10:05 a.m. Worship Sen ice: 10:30 a.m. & Children's Church age 4-4th grade dis­ missed during service. Youth Group at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Women’s Bible Study at 6:30 p.m. Thursday Bible Study at 10 am., 2nd Tues: Young Wom­ en's Small Group at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Mid-Week: Wom­ en's Bible Study at 6:30 p.m. Kid's Club. For more informa­ tion please contact the church. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover Cod's Grace with us! Holy Conununion Every Sunday! Jan. 19 - Worship services at 8 am. and 10:45 a.m. Nursery available. Jan. 21 - Women of Faith 1:30 p.m.; Council 6 p.m. Jan. 25 - Movie Night 6:30 p.m. Pastor Ken Scheck 11. pastorken® gracc-hastings. org. Location: 239 E North SL, Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645. fax 269-945-2698. www.grace-hastings.org. Facebook: Grace Lutheran Church-ELCA Hastings, Ml. 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 *"*<• Frond1*** TI,\y5"®'<Sbu^fOT'heBi'fiy Township Police l)e„ , ,,t During Tuesday. 1 “ board meeting. Police Chief n reported that the department respon(| ->,424 complaint calls over the Cou of ?hc year, averaging roughly seven calls . •Tn my 20 ycars*rjn ,his county. I-w never seen n^'dfjs high." Dosrer said. But I can’t Pw „1V finger on what the cause is. Doster said niiml>. hig|, everywhere, bul he couldn't eiIe !1W Jicular reason for the rise in calls. * •Tin totally an,a7c(1.ljd In other matters Treasurtr Judy Wooer gave a report on ‘ of Delton District Library. She announced tha( (he jjbrary won the Gilmore Car Musc^ Festival of Trees con­ test by collecting 7j5 noivperishable food items to be donated to residents of Barry County. In December, lhc )jb forgave the fines for overdue boofa, b), 'ingcanned food item for each doliar owe(j The library was able to forgive $12j inovcnlue fines. Also last month, ihc library had a silent auction of numcrous thcmell baskets. The auction raised $2flio T|lc |ibrary also earned $483 from a fabric sale Also in December, an individual donated a pingpong table to library. 'Flic table, which is collapsible, will be used for scheduled com­ munity pingpong times from | to 3 p.m. Tuesdays andThinxdays. The library also will oiler beginner guitar classes starting Jan. 22 and continuing every other Wednesday. The guitar classes cost $5 per person. During his report on the county board, Commissioner Dave Jackson spoke about the recent rising floodwaters in the area. I ve been continuing to tour the lakes,” he said. “Pleasant Lake is extremely high; Crooked Lake is extremely high. We suppos­ edly took 8 to 12 inches of the lake over the summer, and I think we’ve pretty much lost all that.” “1 was at Hope Township Park this after­ noon. and the benches are under water, the playground is under water, water is high everywhere. Pumping is going to be a slow process because of all the precipitation we’re getting.’’ Marilyn “Joy” Ward, age 77, of Hastings, passed away on January 7,2020. She was bom on February 14, 1942 in Newbury, MO, the daughter of Carl and Pauline (Wilson) Decker Joy married Robert Ward on December 26, I958’ and lhcy enjoyed 57 years together before his death in 2016. Joy worked for scveral years in retail sales. She was a longtime Moose member. She bowled for many years and enjoyed Sunday dinners and cookouls with the family. Joy was preceded in death by h<:r Parents; her husband, and son, nmdIe> J WanL Cu ■ She is survived bv her daughu-r. Shari (Bryan) Carpenter- ,on Robert (Ku™!') Ward; grandchildren Tia Ward-McNary. Dana (Chyane) Kurr Chet (Hl’,,c>'J M" ' Staeie (Jason) En^\Ua Simmons, Kai (M_ ‘ hGie) Ward, tnka (Tom) Washbum- •><? tr..at-ei®<fchildrcn, imdtwogreat.grun^y^H ' .... I er Joy s wishes th,.r • will be n°scrvlce' t Arrangements by Funeral Home. To'eave an 1)nli^ visit www. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: A. exfob vA vlv ,,, ErtTbachfuneralhome™ With elections for Barry County offices coming up later this year, candidates arc start­ ing to announce their plans to run for office. Tuesday night. Middleville Village Trustee Amanda Fisk announced that she will seek the office of county clerk. Fisk, who was elected to the village council in November 2018, will run as a Democrat against Republican incum­ bent Pam Palmer. “I chose 2020 to run for a higher office because it fell like the right lime.” Fisk posted in a Facebook message Tuesday night. “1 have recently completed my master’s of public administration and am at a point in my career that I’m able to dedicate the time to a cam­ paign and make a commitment to the full-time job if elected.” Fisk was the lop vole-getter among four candidates in the village election in 2018, receiving 762 votes. She is a 2003 graduate of Thomapple Kellogg High School, and holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Michigan State University and a master’s in public administration from Walden University. “It is an honor to sene as trustee in Middleville,” Fisk posted in her message. "I look forward to continuing my work here through the campaign, and. if 1 am not elect­ ed. I have every intention of completing my term, which ends in 2022.” Palmer, of Irving Township, was appointed to the office of county clerk in December 2014 by a three-member panel of county judges and look office Jan. 1,2015, replacing Pamela Jan is, who retired midway through her term. Palmer had been the chief clerk to the circuit court judge for 19 years prior to her appointment. In August 2016. Palmer defeated then-coun­ ty board chairman Craig Stolsonburg in a GOP primary election, 6.437-3,779. and did Carol Jeanne Stark, age 82, of Hastings, passed away on January 10. 2020. She was bom on September 23, 1937, the daughter of Bill and Helena (Scramlin) McCall. Carol was a 1955 graduate of Hastings High School and retired from Hastings Manufacturing after 34 years of service. Carol enjoyed taking her little dog Tiki to the dog park, .shopping and eating out. She also looked forward to attending the Hastings Manufacturing Retirees Luncheons. Carol was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her daughter, Michelle Slocum; grandson, Marshall Warren; granddaughter, Stephanie (Kwinton Breitner) Warren; brother, Mike (Sally) McCall, and lifelong friend and father to Michelle, Rex Slocum. A Celebration of Life Luncheon will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 8, 2020 at Welcome Comers United Methodist Church 3185 N. M-43 Hwy, Hastings, Ml 49058. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhomc.net. 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 269'945-3252 • www.glrrbachfuncrallHMue. —r' M.-S5K, — 'H.'ning 11 Kl ------ 2jK>s, IW'' Tuesday ) 1.- March iucymoj of .......theFcb Feb.. II Scheduled meetinf du |(je upwming 11 (moved io Wednesday due () Ju|y 7> election). April I-.. • N()V )Oand Dec. 8. Aug. 11 - Sept. 8. Oct. - « schedule The board also ;,PPro rrnins tlie same as for 2020-21. the schedule remains i in 2019-20. • Middleville trustee announces candidacy for county clerk • 'Ihiditional and Cremation Services • Pre-Planning Sen ices • large Parking Uh ■ Handicap Accessible • Serving AU Faiths • Pre-arrangcment Transfers Accepted Hkastings 1301W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 Sunervi™ «/„<-„ v.,t.t... announced that Supervisor Wesley Kahler announced that longtime Barry Township Board of Review member Robert Sheriff has retired from the position. Kahler said he is currently seeking an individual to fill the vacancy. Tlie board voted to approve its meeting dates for the upcoming year. Most regular meetings will begin nt 7 p.m. the second tfy ow,n*tl antl °Peralcd 14»u*d) •uU’ s«’n'<‘umling < (immunities h»r years Amanda Fisk not face Democratic opposition in the November general election that year. Palmer said Wednesday she had not yet received Fisk’s paperwork for the clerk's position. All seven Barry County commission scats are up for election this year, as well as the positions of sheriff, clerk, prosecutor, treasur­ er. register of deeds and drain commissioner. Tlie county board seats are two-year terms while the counlywide offices are four-year terms. Candidates who wish to run for county offices must file their nominating petitions by 4 p.m. on Tuesday. zXpril 21. Anthony William Bills, age 79 of Delton, passed away on January 8, 2020. Anthony was born on April 2. 1940 in East Cleveland. Ohio the son of Charles and Anna Bills. Anthony was employed as a drafting checker at Eaton Corporation for over 30 years, retiring in 1993. Anthony lived on Big Cedar Lake in Delton for the pa>t 20 years and attended St. Ann Catholic Chui ch. He enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and spending time on the lake. Antht,nY will be remembered as a wonderful dad and a well-respected man with many close friends. Amh°ny is sumvi-d by his son, David Bills: Sister. Anna Marie Aymonin: several nieces nephews, cousin’s, and many extended family members. narenK-’^ cousin ll''l'C'k-|LUC lle unisin, Helen Klauss S«ndav0,;-V'S Wi" U>res\u^ 20. 2020 io*. 7’le and ,in dealh b-v his ilnJ M’ecial Monday- Jan- Church vu .1,1 al Sl- Ann Catholic will r l,‘,s Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at II a.m. AnnvwiO 1' eonlrlbul'°m; to the Salvation willi mi 1 t ‘T’Pteciated. Please visit www. or to uneraIxOrn t° share a memory Anthony’s r;ntny.eOndO'CnCC �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 16. 2020 — „ nF M’CH,QAN legal notices jud.cature act of 1 $61. 1951 PA 236 un rn??Sed SEiii ^XXSS*: Name(s) of the mortgagorfs): Jordan Ashtey Mack an unmamed woman ’ Morw> Electronic Reg.3tra.1cn Systems. Inc., as mortgagee as nom'nee for lender and lender’s successors and’or assignAS£:9neG (if any): Amer,Fi^ Hnaneta! Corporation Date of Mortgage; May 22,2018 Date of Mortgage Record ng: June 8,2018 Amount claimed due on date of notice- $86 998 47 Descnotion 0! the mortgaged premises; Situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan and descr.bed as: Lot(s) 3. Block 7 of Kcnfie’d’s 2nd Addition to the City of Hastings according to the Plat thereof recorded in Libor 1 of Plats, Page 37 of Bany County Records Common street address (if any): 722 E Clinton St Hastings. Ml 49058-2414 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sate, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or. if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600-3240(16). If the property Is so'd at foreclosure sa'e under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1951, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 tne borrower will bo hold responsible to the person who buys tho property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damag.ng the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, If your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for tne party foreclosing the mortgage at tho telephone number stated in this notice. This notice Is from a debt collector. Date of notice: January 16, 2020 Trott Lav/, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1406922 (01-16X02-06) 135788 IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. Default has occurred tn the conditions of a mortgage (the ■’Mortgage*) made by William J. Cronk, mortgagor, to Union Bank, having its principal offices at 933 Fourth Avenue. Lake Odessa. Michigan, 48849, mortgagee, dated October 9. 2012, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Barry County, Michigan, on October 29, 2012 In Instrument No. 2012006355. Because of the default, the undersigned has elected to declare the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage immedate-y due and payable. At the date of this notice there is claimed to be due for pnncipal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Twenty-Two Thousand Nine Hundred Twelve and 31/1 CO Dollars ($22,912.31). No suit or proceed.ngs at law have been instituted to recover any part of the debt secured by the Mortgage. Notice is hereby given that by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, and to pay said amount with interest as prov.ded In the Mortgage, and all legal costs, charges and expenses, including attorney fees allowed by law, the Mortgage will be foreclosed by sale of the mortgaged premises at public vc-ndue to the highest bidder at the Barry County Courthouse, 220 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan, the place of hold.ng the Circuit Court within Barry County. Michigan, on Thursday. February 6, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. local time. Pursuant to Section 3240(12) of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, as amended, (MCLA 600.3240(12), tho redemption period shall be one (1) year from the date of the foreclosure sate, unless the premises are determined to bo abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241 a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of the sate. If the premises are so'a at a foreclosure sate under MCLA 600.3278, the mortgagor will bo held responsible to the person who buy's the property at the mortgage foreclosure sate or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. The premises covered by said mortgage is commonly known as 3769 East M-79 Highway, situated in the Township of Hastings, Barry County. Michigan, described as follows: A parcel of land in the Southeast 1/4 of Section 26, Town 3 North. Range 8 West, Hastings Township. Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Section 26; thence vjfcef 1224 feet to the place of beginning; thence North 00 degrees 21 minutes East 410.85 feet to ‘he South right of way line of the New York Central XJ Ihence South 89 degrees 41 — East parcel of Land Hastings Township. Town 3 North Rang^° bed a$. commencing ^CeUn^^st comer of said Section; thence at the So.u?e?Sfr. the o'ace of beginning; thence West 1324 feet tothe P-ce oj eg, * North 00 degrees South right of wuy of N central right of way; wo f t S touth 00 agrees 21 — West 410.85 Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING NOTICE TO CREDITORS Carolyn J. Jackson and Donald J. Jackeon TYust Pleaso take notice that Donald C Jackson, born January 11, 1933, rtted on December 6. 2019 His last address was 11911 Bass Road. Yankee Springs, Ml 49333 Creditors 0! the decedent or the Trust are notified that all cla'ms against the decedent and Trust will bo forever barred unless presented to Jana Jackson, at the address below, within four months after the date of pub'icauon of this notice. This notice is given pursuant to the Michigan Estates and Protected Individuals Code Jane E. Jackson 6646 Jousma Court SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Date of Publication: January 19. 2020 Prepared by; Christopher D. Matthysso Mika Moyers PLC 800 Monroo Avenue NW Grand Rapids. Ml 49503 616-632-6000 135777 Notico of Foreclosure by Advertisement. Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961.1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that tho following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or somo part of them, at a public auction sale to tho highest bidder for cash or cashier's chock at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on February 06, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing tho highest bid at the sate does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of tho property. A potential purchaser Is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a feo for this Information. MORTGAGE: Mortgagor(s): John Anes, an unmarried man Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems. Inc. (“MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns Date of mortgage: August 4, 2015 Recorded on August 20, 2015, in Document No. 2015-008134. Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Quicken Loans Inc. Amount claimed to bo due at the date hereof: Ono Hundred Five Thousand Two Hundred Four and 79/100 Dollars ($105,204.79) Mortgaged premises: Situated in Barry County, and described as: Commencing at the Northwest comer of Lot 1152 of the City of Hastings: thence North 4 rods; thence East 12 rods; thence South 4 rods; thence East 12 rods to the place of beginning, Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as 733 S Church St, Hastings, Ml 49058 Tho redemption period will be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless abandoned under MCL 600.3241a. in which case the redemption period will be 30 days from tho date of such sale, or 15 days from the MCL 600.3241 a(b) notice, whichever Is later; or unless extinguished pursuant to MCL 600.3238. If tho above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of Act 236 of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, tho borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys tho property at tho mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption penod. Attention homeowner. If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at tho telephone number stated In this notice. Quicken Loans Inc. Mortgagee/Asslgnee Schneiderman & Sherman P.C. 23938 Research Dr, Suite 300 Farmington Hilts, Ml 48335 248.539.7400 1406273 (01-09X01-30) 135461 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE BY ADVERTISEMENT. Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sate of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a pubic auction sate to the highest bidder for cash or cashter’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in BARRY County, starting promptly at 1:00 p.m., on February 13, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sate. Placing the highest bld at the sate does not automatically entitle tho purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title Insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE INFORMATION: Defau t has been made In the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Rodney Esseitine and Bonnte K. Esseltine. whose address is 9349 Lost Trail Drive, Delton, Michigan 49046, as original Mortgagors, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., being a mortgage dated January 31, 2008, and recorded on December 1, 2008 as document number 20081201-0011457 , Barry County Records, State of Michigan. Said mortgage Is now held through mesne assignments by Camngton Mortgage Services, LLC, as assignee as documented by an assignment dated February 20, 2014 and recorded on July 2, 2014 as document number 2014-006286, Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of SEVENTY-ONE THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED THIRTY-ONE AND 73/100 DOLLARS ($71,331.73). Said premises are situated In the Township of Hope County of Barry, State of Michigan, and are described as: LOTS 9 AND 10 OF LEINAAR PLAT, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN UBER 4 OF PLATS ON PAGE 39. Street Address: 9349 Lost Trail Drive, Delton, Michigan 49046 Tho redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless the properly is determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA § 600.3241a in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from tho date of the sale. If tho property is sold at a foreclosure sate under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCLA § 600.3278 the borrower will bo held responsible to tho person who buys the property at tho mortgage foreclosure sate or to the mortgage holder for damaging th0 property during the redemption period. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. ATTENTION HOMEOWNER; IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICE MEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY. IF YOUR PERIOD OF ACTIVE DUTY HAS CONCLUDED LESS THAN 90 DAYS AGO, OR IF YOU HAVE BEEN ORDERED TO ACTIVE DUTY. PLEASE CONTACT THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PARTY FORECLOSING THE MORTGAGE AT THE TELEPHONE NUMBER STATED IN THIS NOTICE. Dated: January 16.2020 For more information, please contact the attorney for the parly foreclosing: Kenneth j Johnson, Johnson. Blumberg, & Associates. LLC, 5955 West Mam Street. Suite 18, Kalamazoo, Ml 49009. Telephone; (312) 541-9710. Fite No.: Ml 19 4033 (01-16)(02-06) 135649 00^,9-28293-06 ■**«*.» q/1 1/1991. *,H rtd jahet Penn'nw m MaTenckso" and 0, t0 pXaLvn St*. court at 206 ptesented p*. Probate ,M P^°nal, ' ,ng3. notico13 2020 Date: January 1J« Rhoades McKee p4354g Stephanie S. Fe^ g(e. A 150 W. Court StreeHastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-1921 . ot Pennington Mark Erickson and^ 50 W. Court Str^ Su A c/o Rhoades McK®0, Ste. A Hastings. Ml 49058 (269)945-1921 1 Sihemo^^ them, at public auctio Co(jnt hold.ng the circuit court within W '1.00 PM. on JZXo?^^:‘9O'(S,: &^organ. a m"”n Mortgagoo- Modgaj, Registration Systems. • ‘ r ^Qageo. as nominee for lender and ten uUcoe$SOrs and/or ^Foreclosing Assignee (if any). ca,ber HomQ Loans. Inc. « Dato of Mortgage: December 26.2017 Date of Mortgage Recording. Jan^ 2O10 Amount claimed duo on da«e of notico. $280.05635 . Description ol the mortgaged prerrvS5s: s!tualod in Township of Johnstown. Barry Coucy Michigan, and described as: Commencing at a point on the South line of Section 33, Town 1 Range 8 West, distant South 89 degrees 34 ^nutes 35 seconds East 1992.93 feet from thg Southwest corner of said Section; thence North 2 degrees 05 minutes 45 seconds East 1000 50 feet, thence South 89 degrees 51 minutes 45 seconds East 664.67 feet to the North and South 1/4 |;ne of sa,d Section 33; thence South 2 degrees 06 minutes 40 seconds West, along said North and South 1/4 line 1003 78 feet to the South 1/4 post cfsatf Section, thence North 89 degrees 34 minutes 45 seconds West along said South Section (0955431 fC9t l0 tho place of beginning. Subject to an easement over tho southerly 33 feet thereof for public highway purposes. The redemption period shall be6nxr.!nsfrom tho date of such sate, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a.or.i!the subject real property is used for agricuVal purposes as defined by MCL 600 3240(16). If the property is sold at forecfcsura sate under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judca/e Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the bora/rer will be hold responsible to the parson wheats the property at tho mortgage foreclosure sa^ato the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. This notice is from a debt cc'ector Date of notice December 2£ 2019 Trott Law. P.C 1405149 (12-26)(01-16) 134552 Attention homeowner If you are a military sen ce member on actwo duty, if your period of active cuty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact W attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at trie telephone number stated in this notice. Notice of foreclosure by advertisement. Notice Is given under section 3212 of trio revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236. MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sate of tho mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sa'e to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at tne place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM on FEBRUARY 6,2020. Tho amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of tho sale. Placing the hiohest bid at the sate does not automatically entitle~the purchaser to free and clear ownership of tho property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a feo for this information. Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Brandon Clement, unmarried man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, ’no., as nominee for lender and tender's successors and/or assigns. Mortgagee, dated November 15, 2017 and recorded November 22,2017 In Instrument Number 2017-011820 County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage lsr,°* heid bY AmeriHome Mortgage Company, LLC, by assignment. There is claimed to be duo at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ten Thousand F°ur Hundred Sixty-Eight and 10/100 Dollars ($110,468.10), Including interest at 4.5% per annum. Under the power of 53,e c°ntalned in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby 9^ that said mortgage will bo foreclosed by a sae °t the mortgaged premises, or somo part of them, at public venduo at the place of hold-ng me circuit court within Barry County. Michigan at 1;0° PM on FEBRUARY 6, 2020. Said premises are ,oca{e?J" tbo Village of Middleville, Barry, County M!chlgan, and are desenbed as: . , Lot 36. Johnson* Village of Middleville, according 10 „ p thereof recorded •n Liber i of plats, PJ9° 2’ Records. 411 Sherman Street, M dd'®^. Michigan 49333 The redemption period s a months from the date of such sale, unless de abandoned In accordance with MCLA in which case the redemption period sha' 0 days |fom tbe date of such sale. . It the property Is sold at '‘UrQ sale, pursuant ‘o MCL 600.3278. the &i oww wji) responsible to tho person * th0 property a| tlie mortgage foreclosure sa< to thQ mortgage holder for damage to th P Peny lh0 redemption period. Dated: January 9, 2020 Fite No. 19-012511 Firm Name: Ohans PC b Fimi Addresy. 1650 West B-9 ^*1, Irov M, 4goft4 Firm Phono Number: (248) 50<:.140q (0v^)(01.30) FILE NO. 20-28413-NC »n the matter of THER1N CARY SMITH TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS including. w oce address(es) is/are unknown and whose 'merest in the manor may be barred or affected by the following; TAKE NOTICE A hearing will bo held on Feb. 5. 2020 at 1 30 p m nt 206 W. Court St. #302. Hastings. Ml 49058 before Judge Hon. William M. Doherty P41960 for tho following purpose: Petition for a Name change for Therin Cary Smith to bo changed to Thonn Cary Drake. Date. 1-9-2020 David Tnpp P29290 202 S. Broadway Street Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-9585 Therin Smith 226 V/. Orchard Street Delton, Ml 49046 (269)929-6728 135578 synopsis .on meeting ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP A BCRC ANNUAL MEETING JAN. 7. 2020 Barry County Road Commteswn annual meeri y called to order 6 pm Al! board members present and 4 mcmoc road commission. x.venr Presentation on county roads & update *-y plan Meeting adjourned 6 55 p m. _ Township Board meeting called to or def 7.0 p.m. all board members present. Commissioner Conner & 10 guests. Pledge of Al’egiance • Motion approved Dec. 3rd board meeting minutes Motion approved paying of the bills Department Reports Public Comment: Brittnee Martin update Dog Park Motion approved 2020 Board Meeting Calendar. Moton approved Resolution 0120 Motion approved GLASA meeting Feb. 10th. Mill Pond Proposal remained tabled Motion to adjourn 7.45 pm Submitted by: Mel Ricner/Cterk Attested to by. Tom Rook/Superwsor Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to MCL 600 3212. that tho following will be forectesed by a sate of tho mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public auction at tho place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM. on January 30,2020 Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Teresa M Boulter and Charles Boulter, wife and husband Onginal Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any); New Residential Mortgage, LLC Dato of Mortgage: September 15. 2005 Date of Mortgage Recording: September 26, 2005 Amount claimed duo on dato of notice: $82,389 31 Description of tho mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Irving. Barry County. Michigan, and described as: Beginning at a point on the North and South 1/4 line of Section 35, Town 4 North, Rango 9 West, distant South 330 feet from the center 1/4 post of said Section 35. thence East 660 feet parallel with tho East and West line of said Section 35, thence South 410 feet, thence West 660 feet to the North and South 1/4 line of said Section, thence North 410 feet to tho place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from tho dato of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a; or. if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600 3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 ol tho Revised Judicature Ad of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600 3278 the borrower will bo held responsible to the person who buys tho property at tho mortgage foreclosure sate or to the mortgage holder for damaging tho property during the redemption period. This notice is from a debt collector Date of notice: January 2. 2020 Trott Law. RC 1405516 (01-02) (01-23) 134892 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement NOTICE Is hereby given pursuant to MCL 600 3212. that the following wXI be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some pert of them, at publ c auction at the place of bolding tho circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM, on January 23, 2020: Name(s) of tho mortgagor(s): Andrew Richardson, a single man Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems. Inc., as nominee for tender and lender’s successors and/or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Lakeview Loan Servicing. LLC Date of Mortgage: January 28. 2015 Date of Mortgage Recording: February 10,2015 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $51.646 31 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Commencing on the North section line of Section 1. Town 2 North. Range 9 West at the intersection of Sager Road and Cedar Creek Road for the place of beginning; thence West on said Section line 500 feet; thence South 308 feet; thence East 500 feet to the Centeriine of Cedar Creek Road; thence Northerly along the Centerline of Cedar Creek Road 308 feet to the place of beginning. The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600 3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sate under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sate or to the mortgage ; holder for damaging the property dunng the redemption period. This notice Is from a debt collector. Date of notice: December 26.2019 Trott Law, PC. 1404966 (12-26)(01-16) Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice Is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that tho following mortgage will bo foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sate to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at tho place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM. on February 06. 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing tho highest bid at the sate does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE: Mortgagor(s): Raymond Featherstone, a married man end Jeri Featherstone, his wife Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (“MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns Date of mortgage: November 22,2013 Recorded on December 10,2013, Instrument 2013-014496 Foreclosing Assignee fif any): Lakeview Loan Servicing. LLC Amount claimed to be due at the dato hereof: One Hundred Fifty-Nine Thousand Three Hundred Forty-Seven and 80/100 Dollars ($159,347.80) Mortgaged premises: Situated in Barry County, and desenbed as: Parcel 1: Beginning on the North and South 1/4 line, South 957.78 feet from the North 1/4 post of Section 33. Town 1 North, Rango 9 West, said place of beginning also being South. 297.08 feet from tho Northeast comer of the South 1/2 of tho North 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of tho Northwest 1/4 of said Section 33; thence South 264.02 feet a'ong said North and South 1/4 lino; thenco North 89 degrees 43 minutes 52 seconds West. 198.00 feet parallel with tho East and West 1/4 line of said Section 33; thenco North 264.02 feet parallel with said North and South 1/4 Imo; thence South 89 degrees 43 minutes 52 seconds East. 198.00 feet, parallel with said East and West 1/4 line to the place of bog nning. Reserving the Easterly 33 feet for public road right of way. Parcel 2: Beg nning on the North and South 1/4 line, South 1221.82 feet from tho North 1/4 post of Section 33, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, said place of beginning also being South 661.10 feet from the Northeast comer of the South 1/2 of the North 1/2 of tho Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of said Section 33- thence South 264.02 feet along said North and South 1/4 line; thence North 89 degrees 43 minutes 52 seconds West 198.00 feet parallel with the East and Wost 1/4 Imo ol said Section 33; thenco North 264 02 feet parallel with said North and South 1/4 Imo; thenco South 89 degrees 43 minutes 52 seconds East 193.00 feet parallel with said East and West 1/4 line to the place of beg nning. Commonly tewwni as 15212 Kellogg School Rd, Kckory Comers, Ml 49060 Tho redemption period will be 6 months from £0 date of such sate, unless abandoned under MCL 600.3241a, In which case tho redemption period w.ll be 30 days from the date ol such sale, or 15 days from the MCL 6C0.3241a(b) notice, whtehever is later; or unless extinguished pursuant to MCL 600.3238. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sate under Chapte^2 o?Act 236 ot 1961. under MCL 600.3278. the borrower will be held responsible to the percoa who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sate or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property dunng tne redemption period Attention bomeow-ner: If you are a military sererce» memberon SWCS-SSSJS active duty-, please contact the attorney for tho party foreclosing the mortgage at the tetepbone number stated in this notice. Mortgagee/Assignve Schneiderman & Sherman P.C o-urw tLo.-tfch Dr. Suita 300 Farmngton HH.s, Ml 23938 Research Dr, Suita 48335 248.539.7400 1406272 135457 (01-09X01-30) 134484 NOTICE OF M 0RTQAQ1FOAEOLOMNW SAL1 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. . PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ' ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may bo rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any. shall bo limited solely to return of the bld amount tendered at sate, plus interest. NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE BY ADVERTISEMENT: Notice Is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA236, MCL 600.3212, * that tho following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sate of the mortgaged premises, or somo part of ’ them, at a public auction sate to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s chock at the place of hokkng f the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 p.m., on February 27,2020. The amount duo on tho mortgage may be greater on the day of tho ; sate. Placing tho highest bld at the sate does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and dear ownership of tho property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds * office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE , SALE: Default has been made In the conditions • of a mortgage made by JOHN OUN, original mortgagoris), to Mortgage Electronic Registration K Systems, Inc., as original mortgagee, as nominee for Mid America Mortgage Inc., its successors . and assigns, Mortgagee, dated July 19. 2016, and recorded on July 29, 2016, as Instrument No. 2016-007453, in Barry County Records, Mich^an and last assigned to Mid America Mortgage, Inc., as the foreclosing assignee, as documented by an . Assignment of Mortgage dated December 9. 2019, and recorded on December 16,2019, as Instrument, No. 2019-012375, In Bany County Records, t Michigan, on which mortgage there Is claimed to bo • due end owing as of February 2, 2020, the sum of ‘ One Hundred Seven Thousand Six Hundred Ninety Seven and 59/100 U.S. Dollars (S107,697.59). Said " mortgaged premises Is situated at 226 West Marshal! • Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 In tho City ol Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and Is described as: LAND IN THE CITY OF HASTINGS. BARRY COUNTY. MICHIGAN, TO WIT: EAST 1/2 OF LOTS 1272 AND 1273, CITY OF HASTINGS. FORMERLY THE VILLAGE OF HASTINGS, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, BARRY COUNTY RECORDS. Tho redemption period shall bo 6 months (180 Days) from tho date ol such sate,", untess determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, In which case the redemption period shall bo 30 days from tho date of such sale. Pursuant to Clxapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, If tho property is sold at foreclosure sale the borrower will bo held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to tho mortgage hokter under MCLA 600.3278 for damaging tne property during tho redemption period. Attention homeowner I! you are a military service member on active duty. If your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 . days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, ptease contact tho attorney for tf»o party torectos*ng the mortgage at the telephone number stated m thrs , notice. Dated: January 7,2020 For Moro Intormatten, pteaso call: Matthuw R. Reinharot, Esq. Quintarros. ' Prieto, Wood & Boyer, PA Attorneys tor Servicer 255 • South Orange Avenue, Suite 900 Ortando. Ftonda 32801 (855) 267-0240 Matter No. 139770 . (01-09X01-30) 135449 �Pann - Thursday. January 16. 2020 — Tho Hastings Banner Pair of I-8 foes finish off Saxon boys late The Hastings varsity boys' basketball team suffered a tough 52-44 loss at Jackson Parma Western Tuesday. Bhan Cans his a three pointer to pull the S ixons within four points in the final minutes of the ballgame, but the Panthers were able to finish off the Intcrstatc-8 Athletic Conference Hastings had eight different players score in the ballgame, led by Elijah Smith’s nine points. . , . , . h was the second straight light ballgame against an 1-8 foe that the Saxons just were unable to pull out. Harper Creek scored a 57-56 win over the Saxons nt Little Caesar’s Arena in downtown Detroit Saturday, erasing whnt had been a seven-point Saxon lead to start the fourth C"carter Cappon Eastman 14 points •' home-court of contest for'he Saxons « k W (he Detroit P» ons. C»PP q (|)e fn;e three-pointers and was throw line. Bcn Shafcr The Beavers got 14 points ! and ten from Rae Punches tn the win. iney had six rebounds .ach. j. this season The Saxons fall to 1-5 overall this season with the two conference dcfe®1^ Jackson on the road again Friday to take onJackson Northwest in 1-8 action. Hastings is y 1-3 in conference play. DK girls improve scores at second SMCCC jamboree The Delton Kellogg varsity competitive cheer team placed third for the second timc in two tries in Southern Michigan Competitive Cheer Conference action Tuesday at Lawton High School. The Panthers were more than 40 points belter than they had been at the opening SMCCC jamboree just a week earlier. , Delton Kellogg’s big jump came in round two where they improved their score by more than 24 points. Lawton and Gobles were the two teams ahead of the Panthers once again. Lawton won the jamboree with a score of 709.44. ahead of Gobles 68838, Delton Kellogg 623.04, White Pigeon 60420.Coloma 603.46, Hartford 592.00, Bloomingdale 571.70. Constantine 478.00 and Fennville -22.98. Even with the big round-two boost that saw their score move to 168.84. the Panthers were still fifth in the scoring in that round. DK also had a 201.00 in round one and 253.ZU in round three, the highest scores of the season for the DK girls in each of those rounds as Lawton had the top score in all three rounds of any team Tuesday, scoring a 222.10 in round one. a 212.04 in round two and a 28330 in round three. The Delton Kellogg team is scheduled to be a part of the Mattawan Invitational Saturday and will then head to Coloma for league jam­ boree number three Tuesday at Coloma. 1 dr.°ne is nresented to county commissioners Tuesday. Pictured are (from left) posse member Steven Matt Houchigi, posso member Capt. Jack Ward, Sheriff Dar Leaf, posse member Ginger Helmus and posse member ^2?® nrake. < Sheriff’s office gets new drone Taylor Owens The Bany Comii'f Sheriff's Office will have new eJes । ( • k wjlh a small drone PU?l^m|l?'.,hcsheriff-S|x>ssc. i nc mi Mavj,., can fly »P45 milcs Pcr hour and travel 15 miles on a single charge. Sheriff Dar Leaf said the drone can be used for a variety of tasks, such as photographing scenes of traffic accidents and searching for people who arc lost or have mn away. T he drone has a thermal-imaging camera to look for people at night, in addition to a SP° light and speaker to issue verbal coniman s. can send video back to its controller from up to five miles away. B.C. Grapplers score medals at tournaments Missed rent leads to warrant, meth arrests L Officers received a complaint from a homeowner around 4 p.m. Jan. 12 that a tenant who failed to pay rent had returned to the residence in the 10000 block of Long Point Drive in Prairieville Township. Officers found two people inside the house, a 39-year-old Plainwell male and a 17-ycar-old Vicksburg female. Both refused to go to the door. The teen went to the basement when she saw the police, and the man was on the phone and kept holding up His finger for the police to wait. Eventually he went down in the basement as well. Officers let themselves into the house, and the man fled on foot. An Allegan County K9 Unit located him, and he was arrested. He is a third-tier convicted sex offender and had three warrants for his arrest. Methamphetamine and paraphernalia were found inside the house. The teen mitially gave a false name, then confessed her real name and said she had a warrant for her arrest. She also had meth and paraphernalia in her purse, and said she and the man had done picth that morning. Her warrant was for absconding from probation on a commercial sex charge. Two debit cards belonging to a third party were found at the house. The girl said a friend gave them to her. r Barry County Gr^pitrs Association wrestlers Mavenk Peake (second place). Kade Case (first) Colton Linton (second) and Ben Furrow (third) celebrate their medal win­ ning performances athe Sparta MYWAY Tournament Sunday. Barry County Grapplers Association wrestler Vincent Stamm celebrates his win at the Alrna MYWAY Tournament this weekend. Meth found in traffic stop *. An officer stopped a vehicle traveling 69 mph in a 55-mph zone on Cloverdale Road near M-66 Highway at 9:04 pan. Jan. 8. The driver, a 46-ycar-old Kalamazoo woman, had a suspended license, four warrants for failure to appear in court, and a conditional release violation stemming from meth possession charges. She requested her purse be taken to jail with her, because it had her medication. The officer searched the purse and found meth in it. Catalytic converter stolen from van Police received a report of a catalytic converter stolen from a van at Pleasantview Family Church in Johnstown Township Jan. 5. A 69-year-old man said when he started the 2012 Ford van, it made a lot of noise. He took it to a mechanic who said the catalytic converter had been removed. The man said the van had been parked at the church for about three weeks. The case is inactive. Items skipped in self-checkout A Walmart employee called police after multiple staff members watched a 29-year-old Hastings woman bag 22 items without paying for them at 3:37 p.m. Jan. 5. The woman paid for $10158 in items, but the 22 items she did not pay for cost $73.72. Tlie woman told police she skip-scanned the items because she did not have enough money to pay for them. Man asks police to remove girlfriend A 37-year-old man called police at 5:06 a.m. Jan. 12 to report his 40-year-old girlfriend slapped him in the face three times. The man said he tried to drag her out of his residence in the 4000 block of South Marsh Road in Orangeville Township, but was unsuccessful. The woman told police she did not hit him and left the residence. The man said he did not want to bring charges, he just wanted her to leave. Both had been drinking. Logan Kerby, Jordan Humphrey and Logan Klinge from the Barry County Grapplers Association celebrate lhird-P,ace finishes at the S.A.W. Tournament in Lansing Sunday. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 PUBLISHER'S NOTICE: Alt real etteic 3dtcnht% in lh»» n<* «pjpcf i» Ibr fair It. wiicj Ait and the Miihlfcan Civil Rights Act which wHect>»e!> ircke K tllcjjJ u> odvcrtnc “az.) preference. limiUtuM nr d.inin hued on r>cc, color, telson. t*». h#nd<c4p. familial tutus, -ul on$ln. uje or mxnid tutu., ot J>n inknilttn. Io nuke dfl) tpeh f-r f t t trxe. fi tn. uuoni«diu.-rlarim»tji^ “ la.mliJ patlM indudet ch.iJrr.l ir.vkr the ;;c <•( IX U»i«£ *>th parents or lepJ tx.4iMfo.Tv pff.-u.rtf r. mrr. and prujle ucurtnf children ‘•-•Jer I* Jh>» re*$p*prf *»•!! knotdnjjy ust -t *’<» for real ctute 27 A It r. v. Ul on of th? bw Our rri-len are heteby lnf.xnxd tt-rt all Iwrlhrp *hertited »n tM mw^Mper uf mt w .... , 1. rto'd dMtn-n.wt'.un e.!l the 7hc Hi n Ml /lllMHt \\ S<7 »7< <\ ZZ<7// H diih d BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. SUNNY CREST YOUTH RANCH, Sunfield, Ml is hosting a Job Fair on Thurs­ day, January 23, 2020 from lpm-4pm. Seeking full & part-time youth care workers for neglected & abused bovs ages 10-18. A positive attitude a must. S12.50-14.50 an hour If interested call Wes VanDenburg 616-558-7464. MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. C ull 269-804-7506. BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, power washing, home improvements. 269-320-3890. 03 HONDA PILOT, Ieal " good condition inaidc, need,' Alex Schnurstein from the Barry County Grapplers Association celebrates a thirdplace finish at the S.A.W. MYWAY Tournament in Lansing Sunday. F avtJOOOK IO j keep up to date until the i new edition is printed! Barry County Grapplers Association wrestler Joey Furrow shows off his third place medal Sunday at the Sparta MYWAY Tournament. Fellow BC Grappler Jace Acker also placed fourth at the tour­ nament. �2020 - Thf} Hastings Banner — Thursday. January Contributions of local researcher will be Kathy Maurer Copy Editor !was wuniwd to see the |>|1(lln an(| for Gordon Mitchell in the q * After all. he'dI just been to the oflicc six dav earlier, handing me documents far moi priceless (han the plain gray folder that he’d them. ’ Ijiter. looking at that same (older I shook my head, tottering between disbelief md heartache, knowing what tlie community had lost. .1 met Gordon seven,! years ago in ,he Michigan Room at the old library on Church Sheet across from tlie courthouse. As peonle du in a tiny room packed with yellowed clippings, random scrapbooks and old citv dtreetories, we exchanged stories of roadblocks and successes in our genealoev pursuits. Our ho''cver. were hardly comparable. I dabbled. Gordon, on the other hand, was a professional genealogist, hired not only by individuals curious about iheir family trees, but also by law offices seeking to settle obscure inheritance issues or determine the rightful owner of old stock certificates He'd been sought to reconstruct historical events. He also worked over the course of two years researching Boston Tea Party descendants prior to the 2012 opening of a new museum in that Massachusetts city. Of course, I didn’t know any of this at the time. I d occasionally see Gordon at the new library after I began working as copy editor at the paper. When local historian Esther Walton retired, this column just son of fell into my hands. Previously called “From Time to Time, the name was changed to “Turning Back the Pages,” to reflect that the columns are often reprints of articles compiled by Esther or others. Not always, however. Sometimes. I come across a clipping in our archives or glimpse an old Banner story on microfilm at the library’ that warranted new attention, such as the Royal Coach company that built travel trailers in a factory now being eyed for new housing in Hastings. Anniversaries, such as 150 years since the Civil War or a century’ after World War I. seemed worthy of articles. Bul nothing as nicely summarized and packaged as Esther’s work existed for such topics. Spurred by new discoveries or growing curiosity, and given a few spare minutes. I’ll sde what I can find online, in our old files or on microfilm at the library’ After weeks of such f ragmented research. I will have collected enough material to complement or update the original clipping. Sometimes, though, tiny but important pieces are missing, no matter where 1 look. I Gordon was a safely net in such instances. He had assembled a huge, invaluable collection of information on local people and families. A few times each year. I’d email him. asking if, by chance, he had the missing dale, mother’s maiden name, a middle initial or other bit of elusive information. 7. • LEGAL NOTICE-BARRY CONSERVATION DISTRICT NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING AND ELECTION OF DIRECTORS $ To all Barry County residents, notice is hereby given that February 21st,2020' ^etjng pm-6:30 pm, at 105 E State St, Hastings, the Barry Conservation District annu and director's election will be held. The Agenda for the Annual Meeting is a 5:15 - Registration/Open House with staff 5:30 - Call to Order (Election Open) 5:35 - Annual Report and Awards 6: 15- Election Closed 6:15 - Public Comment, Directors Comments, Election Results 6:30-Adjournment As of the 7th day of January, 2020, being 45 days prior to the date of the ann^a meeting, absentee ballots will be available by writing or calling the 0ar.7cE?nnfl.di 35 District Office, located at 1611S. Hanover, Suite 105, Hastings, phone (269) 9U ' during regular business hours of the District which are between 8 a.m. and p. • All absentee ballots must be returned by 3:30 p.m. on the 20th day of February, z • Residents are individuals of legal age who can demonstrate residency in Barry County via one (1) piece of identification. Notice is also hereby given that in this election, one board seat, with a term of four (4) years, will be filled. Candidates eligible for electio by the completion and filing of a nominating petition are as follows: Fred Flower. “it was partly a gift,” Gordon Mitchell said of his foray into genealogy jn a May 12, 2012, Reminder article. "I was given an assignment in junior high school to research my family. I always loved history, and my grandfather had already traced his roots back of knowledge and seven generations.” Mitchell continued to ।pass on his own gifts •«-<> • . resources until his death Jan. 7. This week’s column was one such challenge. The first female probate judge in the slate of Michigan should have been easy to research. She wasn’t. A lack of information on Ella Eggleston delayed this column. The best resource was an index - compiled in 2005 by Gordon Mitchell, no less - that included dates of Banner articles on Judge Eggleston Still, holes remained, such as where she went to high school, whether she attended college and what year her divorce was finalized. Gordon always came through, often providing more information than I’d requested. Responding to my questions regarding Judge Eggleston, he sent along information he’d found on a subscription genealogy site. He also suggested that her brother’s obituary might have one answer, directed me to a book at the library, and expressed the same bewilderment that more had not been written about this leading lady. He followed that up with a visit to our office several days later to drop oft the gray _ articles and documents he’d folder containing found. He might as well have given me a sack, of gold. I was thrilled. He wasn’t expecting anything in return. Ile never did. Over the years, be would bring in articles he came across and thought we might like to reprint. He also delivered spiral-bound collections he’d compiled - as resources for himself - but he kindly shared copies with the library and the Banner. That 2005 index of names he .assembled from thousands of note cards compiled by Esther Walton is one such treasure. He also painstakingly indexed names from the 1918 Banner and gave us a copy of his records. That particular index was a tremendous help as I researched and wrote a series of articles on local men who died in World War 1. Gordon was a quiet, unassuming, generous gentleman. He’d spent 20 years in the U.S. Army. working in military intelligence as a linguist. He was fluent in German, Korean and Hungarian. He’d earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Later in life, he visited area nursing homes, playing music on the Omnichord, an electronic keyboard. He crafted pens with wooden bodies, each with its own story, giving many as gifts. He could have hided his time at libraries in Kalamazoo, Battle Creek or even the state library in Lansing. Instead, he drove regularly from Hickory* Corners to Hastings, sometimes delivering miscellaneous folders or spiral­ bound treasures. He also graciously helped visitors or callers with research at the Hastings library. A bachelor, he has no descendants, but he left volumes of information for future generations. As for me. right now, the most, precious volume is the plain gray folder he handed to me days before he died. But I know it won’t be long before 1 will be reaching for one of the other resources Gordon so kindly shared. And years from now, others will come across his indexes at the Hastings library and feel like they’ve struck gold. Thank you, Gordon, from me and from unnamed future researchers. NOTICE OF MEETING OF BOARD OF DETERMINATION WHISPERING PINES DRAIN DATE: Friday, February 7, 2020 TIME: 5:30 p.m. Yanke Springs Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Rd., Middleville, Ml 49333 LOCATION: QUESTIONS: (269) 945-1385 A Board of Determination will meet at the above date, time and location to hear all interested persons, receive evidence and determine whether the location, establishment and construction of the proposed Whispering Pines Drain, as set forth in the petition dated March 28, 2019, is necessary and conducive to the public health, convenience or welfare, pursuant to Chapter 4 of Public Act 40 of 1956. as amended. A presentation will be made to the Board of Determination outlining a brief history of the Drainage District, and describing the roles, responsibilities and decisions made by a Board of Determination. The presentation is to provide background for landowners and municipalities in the drainage district and to facilitate the dissemination of information and the receipt of testimony of landowners in the Drainage District. The Board of Determination will make its decision at the end of the meeting. Proceedings conducted at this public meeting will be subject to the provisions of the Michigan Open Meetings Act. Information regarding this meeting may be obtained from the Barry County Drain Commissioner’s Office located at 220 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. Persons with disabilities needing accommodations for effective participation in the meeting should contact the Drain Commissioner at the number listed above or through the Michigan Relay Center at 7-1-1 (TDD) at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting to request mobility, visual, hearing or other assistance. Anyone aggrieved by the decision of the Board of Determination may seek judicial review pursuant to MCL 280.72a. Jim Dull, Barry County Drain Commissioner Yankee Springs squabbles over GLASWA bylaw changes Greg Chandler Stajf Writer Proposed language changes to the articles of incorporation for the Gun Lake Area Sewer and Water Authority produced heated debate among Yankee Springs Township board mem­ bers Thursday night. The board voted 4-1 to table a decision approving any changes to the articles of incor­ poration until its next meeting. Township attorney Catherine Kaufman pre­ sented to the board proposed changes to the GLASWA articles of incorporation, which were originally written in 1977. Among the recommendations in the rewrite by attorneys from the law firm Dickinson Wright include giving GLASWA the ability to own its water system. Currently. Yankee Springs contracts with the authority to operate the township water system. ••ft doesn’t mean it converts your township water system to the property of the sewer authority,” Kaufman said. “It just says they would have the authority under the law. if jhey wanted to at some point in the future, to 7 ooerate and maintain (a water system).” Township Trustee and GLASWA director Larrv Knowles, who was the lone dissenting vote on the tabling motion, said the need for rewriting the bylaws came up when the authority recently sought to upgrade .tv sewer -'rids all came about when we went for our . r ,uir latest improvements, and the X^komo^andhetoMusthey w->v out of date, that we re not running WfrL \ like the articles claim we’re supthe sewer J'erhavc.-Knowles said. V • iii't IO ‘"I’ niakc “ d<x'un'c"'lllat actually reflects''the way [the system is oper- al7'1’ l’t’nrosed change that sparked debate , On‘’.P,n, the authority's budget. Hie new focused on (hc aulhoritJ |0 bylaws would n-1 ] and subini( |h(. together a u : • mcmber townships document to Orangeville, Martin and Yankee Spn”;.*• . |OWnshitb would not Wayland. H‘>wcvcr’" be able to sole on approving that budget, which Township Supervisor Mark Englerth objected to. “Believing in transparency of government and being accountable to the public, why wouldn't you w ant to bring it to the board and why wouldn’t you want the constituents to know |what’s in the budgetj?” Englerth asked. Knowles disagreed. “GLASWA has never, ever brought you a budget. Ever.” he said. “They’ve never brought any township a budget.” Englerth and Knowles later squabbled over a recent renovation of the GLASWA office Knowles estimated the cost at $200,000. defending it by saying it was needed to improve security of the office. Another proposed change would allow authority board members to serve more than one threc-year term. Each of the member townships in the authority appoints a repre­ sentative to serve on the board. The proposal also gives each member township the ability to remove their representative and appoint a new member to the board at any lime for any reason. Kaufman said. Englerth spoke out against the current rep­ resentation makeup of the GLASWA board where each township has equal representa­ tion. Since two-thirds of the sewer system is in Yankee Springs Township, he said the township should have a greater share of repre­ sentation. 1 I'liafs not a lair representation of the pub he or the |>eop|e that they serve." Iingl„tl. Martin and Wayland townships alre,dv have approved changes to the language in the bylaws, said Township Treasurer Alke ansma. who Yankee Springs’ representa live on the authority board. Otangevi||c lownslup ls expected to consider the chances next month. '-"‘‘uges I he Yankee Springs bo.ud could schedule SIK-C.al meeting later this month C(1|, .J Changes to the GLASWA articles, or hokl t until its next regularly scheduled lav.ro ing Thursday. K-b It ''"ll nta|- NOTICE OF MEETING OF BOARD OF ; DETERMINATION - PRICE DRAIN : DATE: Saturday, February 8, TIME: 10:00 a.m. . LOCATION: Irving Township Hall, 3425 Wing Rd., Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269)945-1385 ‘ ] QUESTIONS: Maxine Birman turns 101 Happy 101st birthday, Maxine Birman. Please help hcr cc*c0nite her January 28, 2020 birthday sen^‘ng cards and notes to Maxine Birman. 2895 E. M-79 Hwy, Hastings, Ml 49058. Mairiage licenses Gary Williaat Hastings and Mary Franck Eairhcld. H-Ungs Owen 1 J^dbcek, Woodland a»<iRacehl Alan Shane J^1 .. ’ ^ton and Julie Ann Daniels. Matthew N., ‘ x<-’nnontville and AbagailJeanH‘"’«';|^'1l';;lle Brandon1 at()ll Marleen lTusl.lK ' ai«lAmanda 2020 A Board of Determination will meet at the above date, time and location to hear all interested persons, receive evidence and determine whether the maintenance and improvement, as set forth in the petition, dated April 4, 2019, is necessary and conducive to the public health, convenience or welfare, pursuant to Chapter 8 of Public Act 40 of 1956, as amended. A presentation will be made to the Board of Determination outlining a brief history of the Drainage District, and describing the roles, responsibilities and decisions made by a Board of Determination. The presentation is to provide background for landowners and municipalities in the drainage district and to facilitate the dissemination of information and the receipt of testimony of landowners in the Drainage District. The Board of Determination will make its decision at the end of the meeting. i : I ♦ । < ' ! Proceedings conducted at this public meeting will be subject to the J provisions of the Michigan Open Meetings Act. Information regarding this meeting may be obtained from the Barry County Drain Commissioner’s Office located at 220 W. State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. Persons ‘ with disabilities needing accommodations for effective participation in ' ; the meeting should contact the Drain Commissioner at the number listed . above or through the Michigan Relay Center at 7-1-1 (TDD) at least 24 : hours in advance of the meeting to request mobility, visual, hearing or other assistance. Anyone aggrieved by the decision of the Board of Determination may seek judicial review pursuant to MCL 280.72a. . Jim Dull Barry County Drain Commissioner ’ t»&22 �Pagp 8 ThJ«d«y- January 16. 2020 - Tho Hasnngs Banner Financial FOCUS HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Friday. Jan- I7 “ P^school story time. 10:30-1*1 a.m.: January Series: When Caesar Demands to Ik God. 12:30-1:30 p.m.: teen video game event. 4 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 1# - Dungeons and Dragon* and board games groups. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday. Jan. 20 - January Series: Atter Life- Mv Journey from Incarceration to Freedom. 12:30-1:30: Lego club. 4-5: murder mystery group. 6 p.m. Tuesday. Jan. 21 - toddler time, 10.30-1J a.m.: January Series: Finding Chika. **••• ' 1:30; mahjong club. 5:30; chess club, -.. pan. .. Wednesday. Jan. 22 - January Senes: up Close and Personal, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 23 - Baby Cafe JO a.mnoon: January Series: I Was Hungry. 1— ' 1:30: Movie Memories and Milestones watencs 1950 film starring Donald O’Connor. Patricia Medina and Zasu Pitts. 5 p.m. More information about these and other events is available by calling the library. 269- Provided by the Barry Com offices of Edward Joaes Brandon Wilkins Fhiine (Jnrlock The [Yi-RivcrMnscnn; F-W next week lUesday. ~ J*’ — m bc open Jan. accepted. wch. c|osed Sunday h, SC? -«fih • foul weather that prevailed over ’ d The county geneah.gy soc.e.y the wlcr | was cance||ed. ^ hi'^ca. society met Thursday . * xvith the loyal group of membwers ;XS Vi« -ident Thelma Curtis Sresided. Members enjoyed scanning >ru»rv fmni SO years ago to see what was happening in town back then. President John |hM MpfB.n.d while he ... W™ •!,„ , Uhe HljbW • recent week., £ , ' encountered work crews at the ,,,,ly " „,ssinn. At one time, a new unit ^erhenO flashing red lights warned rnn. • ... of oncoming trains. Another day. X working with a red arm that x^^ely be lowered when a tram approach^ ■■£. the arn' use< 1 ,c county line'Ea1()n,..| hway crossing near the Caledonia Farmers ['levator just east of M-50 on the road t0 rhe high school. We await further devclopnienls or announcements. ’Die winter ncw&|cUer of the Friends of the Library is now available for mailing and tor pickup at the library It has the latest on the new quiet room, andI the spring luncheon April Waite was absent because of being in 1 uerto Rico. We are waiting his word on the effects 945-4263. RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP 135696 BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN notice of adoption/summary of ordinance AMENDING CHAPTER 220 (ZONING) OF THE RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP CODE TO Mnnhrr SlPC 307 L Green St., Ste. 1 Hastings, Ml 49050 THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF RUTLAND, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that Ordinance No. 2020-174 was adopted by the Rutland Charter Township Board al its January 8, 2020 meeting. The sections of this Ordinance amend various provisions of Chapter 220 (zoning) of the Rutland Charter Township Code of ordinances, as summarized below: SECTION 1: AMENDMENT OF §220-2-2 PERTAINING TO DEFINITIONS— revises the existing definition for “Farm”, and adds definitions for new terms “Farm Operation" and “Farm Product”. 450 Meadow Run DcSWo 100 Hastings. M’ (269) 948-826j (269)948-2003 Business Owners: Plan for next As a business owner, you’re always thinking of what you need to do now. But you can't forget about the future- yours and that of your business. So it may be a good idea to consider your personal retirement plan and business succession strategy. Let s start by looking at a few retirement plan possibilities: • Solo 40/tkj This plan, which is also known as an Owner-only 401 (k), is available to self-employed individuals and business owners with no full-time employees other than themselves or a spouse. A Solo 401(k) offers many of the same advantages of a traditional 401(k): a range of investment options, tax­ deductible contributions and the opportunity for taxdeferred earnings growth. You may even be able to choose a Roth option, which allows you to make after-tax contributions that can grow tax-free. Your Solo 401(k) contributions consist of tw o parts: salary deferral and profit sharing. In 2020, you can defer up to SI9,500 of income, or $26,000 if you’re 50 or older. Your profit­ sharing contribution is based on your earnings. Tlie sum of your salary deferral and profit sharing can’t phase of life aI any lime >ou like. Or you exceed $57,000 (or $63,500 if you’re 50 or older). If your spouse is employed by your business, you each can contribute the maximinn amount allowed. • SEP IRA If you have just a few employees or are self-employed with no employees, you may want to think about a SEP IRA. You’ll fund the plan with tux-deductible contributions, and you must cover all eligible employees. (I- mploy ecs themselves cannot contribute.) You can generally contribute up to 25% of compensation. up to $57,000 annually. And y ou can fund your SEP IRA with virtually any type of investment. • Solo defined benefit plan - Not many businesses still offer pension plans, also known as defined benefit plans, but you can set one up for yourself if you’re self-employed or own your own business. This plan has high contribution limits, which are determined by an actuarial calculation. and your contributions are typically tax-deductible. A financial professional can help you choose the appropriate retirement plan But \ ou’ll still need to think about succession planning. Of course, y ou can always sell your business outright could leave your business your children in your will, but if J 011 S,vc 11 11 them gradu-dly during your lifetime. you cun become more confident they II be able to manage the business on their own , Another alternative might be to transfer the business with a buy-sell agreement, which allows you to determine when, to whom, and at what price you can sell it. Because you can establish the purchase price as your business's taxable value, a buy-sell agreement is useful in estate planning. B you want to keep the business in your family, you might want to consider funding the buy-sell agreement with life insurance, so family members can use the death benefit proceeds to buy your ownership stake. In any case, given the complexities and tax issues involved with succession planning, you’ll need to consult with your legal and tax advisors when creating a strategy. But don’t wait too long. You can’t predict the future, but by planning ahead, you can help achieve the outcomes you desire. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Janes Financial Advisor. SECTION 2: AMENDMENT OF §220-4-2 PERTAINING TO PERMITTED USES IN THE AG/OS AGRICULTURAL/OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION DISTRICT—adds a reference to (new) §220-1613.B with respect to the keeping or raising of livestock for commercial production or non-commercial purposes in this District. SECTION 3: AMENDMENT OF §220-5-2 PERTAINING TO PERMITTED USES IN THE CR COUNTRY RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT— adds a reference to (new) §220-16-13.B with respite the keeping or raising of livestock for commercial production or non-commercial purposes in this District SECTION 4: AMENDMENT OF §220-6-2 PERTAINING TO PERMITTED USES IN THE MDR MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT—adds a reference to (new) §220-16-13.B with respect to the keeping or raising of livestock for commercial production or non-commercial purposes in this District. SECTION 5: AMENDMENT OF §220-7-2 PERTAINING TO PERMITTED USES IN THE HDR HIGH DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT—adds a reference to (new) §220-16-13.B with respect to the keeping or raising of livestock for commercial production or non-commercial purposes in this District. SECTION 6: AMENDMENT OF §220-8-2 PERTAINING TO PERMITTED USES IN THE MHCR MOBILE HOME COMMUNITY RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT—adds a reference to (new) §220-16-13.B with respect to the keeping or raising of livestock for commercial production or non-commercial purposes in this District. SECTION 7: AMENDMENT OF §220-9-2 PERTAINING TO PERMITTED USES IN THE MU MIXED USES DISTRICT—adds a reference to (new) §220-16-13.8 with respect to the keeping or raising of livestock for commercial production or non-commercial purposes in this District. SECTION 8: AMENDMENT TO §220-10-2 PERTAINING TO PERMITTED USES IN THE LC LAKE COMMERCIAL DISTRICT—adds a reference to (new) §220-16-13.B with respect to the keeping or raising of livestock for commercial production or non-commercial purposes in this District. SECTION 9: AMENDMENT OF §220-11-2 PERTAINING TO PERMITTED USES IN THE ACLI AIRPORT COMMERCIAL/LIGHT INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT—adds a reference to (new) 6220-1613.B with respect to the keeping or raising of livestock for commercial production or non-commercial purposes in this District. SECTION 10: AMENDMENT OF §220-12-2 PERTAINING TO PERMITTED USES IN TUP i ii ifiHT INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT-adds a reference to (new) §220-16-13.B with respect to the t Anina or raising of livestock for commercial production or non-commercial purposes in this District P SECTION 11: AMENDMENT OF §220-13-2 PERTAINING TO PERMITTED USES IN tup PRC PARK/RECREATION/CAMPS DISTRICT-adds a reference to (new) §220-16 13 B J ™ tio the keeping or raising of livestock for commercial production or non-commercial 2 " reSJ> District. wmnierciai purposes in this SECTION 12: AMENDMENT OF §220-16-13 PERTAINING TO ANIMALS -fnrp • to exotic animals) adds new provisions addressing the keeping of livestock in, enl,y pertaining districts for commercial production purposes and for non-commercial purposes Various zonin9 SECTION 13: REPEAL OF CONFLICTING ORDINANCES; EFFECTIVE DATE ordmances/parts of ordinances; provides for the ordinance to take effect on th *repeals conflicting or on such later date as may be required by law. ine day after publication This ordinance in its entirety has been posted in the office of the Townshio Clort, (yvwwjutljnidfovy nship.org). nd on the Township website A copy of the ordinance may also be purchased by contacting the Townshio CIp t regular business hours of regular working days, and at such other times as maybe^nanged^ be,ow Trees work through the winter Dr. Universe: Do trees still create oxyyen and clean the air after their leaves fall off/ Nova, 8. Palouse. Wash. Dear Nova. The trees that lose their leaves in fall, such as chestnuts, oaks, aspens, and maples, are called deciduous trees. Once they lose their leaves, most aren’t able to take in car­ bon dioxide gas from the air or produce any oxygen. That’s what I found out from my friend Kevin Zobrist. a professor of forestry’ at Washington State University. “Don’t fret, though,” Zobrist said. “For they more than make up for it in the sum­ mer.” Leaves play a big part in how trees take in carbon dioxide gas from the air and create the oxygen gas we all breathe. These gases come in and out of a tree through tiny pores on its leaves called stomata. These gases are part of a process called photosynthesis. Trees lake in carbon dioxide from the air, use sunlight as energy to turn that carbon dioxide into sugars, and then use those sugars as their food. In this process, trees also make oxygen. Photosynthesis actually occurs in the green parts of the leaf called chloroplasts. These chloroplasts are what give leaves their color. As leaves start to lose their green colors in fall and winter, they can no longer do photosynthesis. However, there are some deciduous trees, such as aspens, that have green stems. Zobrist said some of these stems can actually do photosynthesis, as well. If the temperatures are warm enough in w inter, the stems start to photosynthesize. But in this case, the tree doesn’t take carbon dioxide from the air. Instead, it uses some carbon dioxide it makes on its own. In addition to photosynthesis, trees also go through a process called respiration. Trees will use some of the sugars they make from photosynthesis to carry out different jobs in their daily lives. As the sugar molecules break apart, they release energy. This process requires trees to take in oxygen and release carbon dioxide. If you’re thinking that sounds just like the opposite of photosynthesis, you are right. This process happens in both the leaves and the stems. Trees with green stems may use some of this tree-made carbon dioxide to do photo­ synthesis after their leaves tall off. Still, there s not nearly as much photosynthesis activity in winter as in summer. frees do most ot the work creating oxy­ gen and cleaning the air of gases such as carbon dioxide in the spring and summer. For the most part, they take a kind of fall and winter vacation. Still, at any given moment, trees on our planet are creating the oxygen we breathe. Alter all. even though it might be winter whcie you live, it is summer elsewhere on tie planet. While the branches in your neighborhood might be bare, in other parts ot the world people are starting to see trees grow ing their new leaves. Dr. Uni vet se Do you have a question/ Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington . tan. University’s resident scientist ami writer ar Dr.Umverse^ nsu.edu or visit her u (L'kdruni\ erse.com. Robin J. Hawthorne Clerk Township of Rul|and Hastings, Michigan 49058 Telephone: (269) 948-2194 Call 269-945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classified ads �Ik ' Of tk , will fiotn .’ 5cleaion । did a sP,e, n(v. of have fl look back at the stories 3nd columns on local history In the Hastings Banner TURNING I BACK THE x PAGES ^3 , fird nK,nian, v EncfU*^ ’LL’^vion read a heaJI'nC n State’s first female judge took bench here 100 years ago Katin Maurer Copy Editor \ milestone anniversary passed quietly in November 1919: The appointment of the first female probate judge in the state. Even 1(X) years ago. when Ella (Mills) Eggleston was named probate judge in Barry County, it drew little attention beyond an article in the Hastings Banner. Some other newspapers in the state extracted the news front that article, publishing a paragraph or two announcing her appointment. In the 1969. when the “Early Hastings’* state marker was placed on the courthouse lawn, the approved wording stated that Eggleston was “one of the first vv omen probate judges in the state." More recently, however, the Women Lawyers Association of Michigan mentioned Eggleston in a historic summary of w omen in the law. A June 20IK press release from several state law organizations al>o gave a nod to her; “In Michigan, women did not become a part of the judiciary in Michigan until Ella Eggleston was appointed as the first female probate judge in 1919." With the exception of genealogy websites, little else can be found online regarding this trailblazer, and those genealogy websites have little more than census records and birth, marriage and death dates. But. Ella Eggleston was quietly quite remarkable. She didn’t attend college. She was a single working mother in the early I9(XK Self­ taught. she gained enough know ledge of the law to be chosen by the governor after another judge resigned. And just three years into her judgeship. Eggleston was invited to speak to fellow probate judges - all men - al a state gathering. Though a self-proclaimed non-public speaker, she drew accolades and numerous requests for copies of her speech. Still, she quietly went about her work, gaining admiration and respect locally, but little attention elsewhere. Ella was born in Assyria Tow nship Aug. 9, 1873, the fifth and youngest child of Louisa (Smith) and James Blair Mills. Her father had been a justice of the peace in Assyria Township and was admitted to the bar in 1883. The family moved to Nashville in 1884. and Ella graduated from Nashville High School in 1892. She taught at local schools before her first marriage in August to 1895 to Benjamin Hecox. They had two children. Ethelyn and Eva, bom in 1897 and 1899. respectively. By 1900. however, she and her young daughters were living in the city of Hastings with her parents. Court records show’ that a divorce was granted in July 1902 because of non-support by Hecox. By then. Ella’s dad had been probate judge for the county for four years, and he appointed her register of probate. (Years later, her own daughter Eva would serve as register of probate.) Judge Mills died of complications from the flu in April 1903. Ella continued as probate register under at least three more judges. In 1911. she married Ralph Eggleston, a widower. His first wife, Mary Corrigan, had died at around age 30 in 1905. leaving behind three young children. In October 1917. according to information shared by Eva Hecox for the 1976 book Outstanding Women of Barry C aunty, Eggleston was appointed by the U.S. Department of the Interior to act as the agent lor pension claimants in the area. A little over a year later, the Nov. 20, 1919. Banner announced her new role: Ella C. Eggleston now probate judge Gave ho ., ans‘»R that is hl’X praised by »•««'”» heard it ••The probate jlld?es of Michigan have an held last week m ‘-‘‘"•J!'6, "n<1 was largely attended, winding >'P «',h ’banquet given by the Ingham Co. 2J’ir Association Wedne>day evening Elks tentple. Judge Eggleston, oflh'\c,t£,5 °.b ,hJ «•*»> woman probate judge in the sta , was honored with a place oil the banquet prog^ her lhenK. (icing: “Status of Aftectmg Women in Ella (Mills) Eggleston of Hastings became the first female probate judge in the state of Michigan in 1919. “We believe that Barry County now enjoys the unique distinction of having the only lady judge of probate in Michigan. Friday . Probate Judge (Ellis C.j Faulkner tendered his resignation as judge of probate for Barry* County to Gov. Sleeper. The same was accepted, and the governor then appointed Mrs. Ella C. Eggleston of this city to succeed Mr. Faulkner. “For the past 18 years, Mrs. Eggleston has been connected with the probate office in this city, serving as probate register. Her service has been characterized by such a degree of intelligence, good judgment, loyalty and cheerfulness, that she has won a host of friends all over Barry County, all of whom recognize her exceptional qualifications for the office and will be delighted to learn of her appointment to the responsible position. No person in Barry County is as familiar with the probate affairs of Barry County as she is. and there will not be as much as a riffle in the smoothness with which the office has been conducted for years. .. this is without doubt the first instance in (he country where a father and daughter will have served a county as judge of probate. All unite in wishing Mrs. Eggleston the success that her long service and her splendid ability entitle her to and which she will enjov without question. "Judge Faulkner’s resignation will come as a great surprise to his many friends all over Barry County and throughout the stale. Had he continued in office, he would have made a splendid record because he has the ability good judgment and the even-tempered disposition necessary for an office of this character. He enjoyed the work and the study that is a necessary part of it to become familiar with it. Had the remuneration been larger, he doubtless would have been glad to have remained. But with a good-sized family to bring up and educate, he could not afford to retain a position, the returns from which would not be sufficient to meet his increasing expenses. 6 “Judge Faulkner has a large dnig store at P.e! »n rcccnl,y Purchased another at Middleville and henceforth will devote his entire time to the drug business, with which he has always been associated. While his friends will regret to leam of his resignation they cannot help but commend his good judgement under the circumstances and unite in wishing him success. “In addition to her well-known fitness for the office. Mrs. Eggleston’s appointment will NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barn’ County Board of Commissioners held Jan. 14. 2020. are available in the County Clerk's Office al 220 W. State St.. Hastings, between the hours of gj)O a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. ,,..A Michigan. “The talk she gave must have been very pleasing to her audience consisting of the probate judges, members of the Ingham County bar. and their wives or husbands and their cuests. for she has received several This state historic marker was placed on the Barry County Courthouse lawn 50 requests for copies of her address. years after Ella Eggleston became the first female probate judge in Michigan. “Judge Eggleston pointed out the fact that Michigan has tlie most liberal laws of any state in safeguarding the property rights of See next week’s Banner for the full speech Women of Burry County. ” 1976. familyseart h. women. A husband cannot deed or mortgage and more about Judge F.ggleston. org; findagruve.com: ”1912 History of Barry real estate whose title stands in his name Sources Hastings Banner. "Outstanding County,” and Gordon Mitchell. without the consent of his wife: while the latter, if she owns any real estate, can sell or mortgage it without the consent of her husband. The laws also safeguard the interest of the wife in the personal as well as real estate of her deceased husband BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION “Judge Eggleston called the attention of the many women who attended the banquet to the Sealed proposals will be received at the office of the Barry County Road I fact that the men ot Michigan, long before Commission, 1725 West M-43 Highway, P.O. Box 158, Hastings, Ml 49058, until! women’s suffrage became the law. and before 10:30 A.M. Monday, February 10, 2020 for the following item. it was even seriously considered in this state, had enacted into law these provisions that so adequately protect the property rights of the Specifications and additional information may be obtained at the Road Commission women of this stale. lie judge felt that the Office at the above address or at our web site at www.banycrc.org. women of Michigan yopht Io appreciate how Liquid Asphalt for Chip Seal fairly they and (heir interests had been treated by the men of Michigan. The Board reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or to waive irregularities “Usually women speakers, especially those who are extreme in urging separate party in the best interest of the Commission. action by women voters, are quite apt to speak slightingly of what the men have done for BOARD OF COUNTY ROAD COMMISSIONERS women. But Mrs. Eggleston does not belong OF THE COUNTY OF BARRY to that class. Quite the contrary, she argued that women ought to find their places in Chairman David D. Solmes existing parties; and if these parties are not right, seek to make them so, rather than give Member Frank M. Fiala any aid or encouragement to a separate party Member D. David Dykstra 135745 for women. NOTICE TO BIDDERS WHISPERING PINES DRAIN NOTICE OF FILING AN ORDER LAYING OUT AND DESIGNATING A DRAINAGE DISTRICT Notice i* Mnrnhu Given Designating a°Drainage that I Jim Dull, Barry County Drain Commissioner, filed an Order Laying Out and Janua^S. 2020. tor the Whispering Pines Drain, acco.d.ng to Chapter 3 of Pubkc Act 40 of 1956, as amended. The route and course of the proposed Dram is described as follows: AN OPEN DRAIN IN THAT PART OF THE SOUTHWEST ’0 SECTON 30. YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP. BARRY COUNTY.MCHJGANI MORE AND SOU1H 1.065 BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE SHORE OF <3^ LAKE. S W POIN F M0RE OR LESS TO° HE POhMTSETNDfNG°SAFDRpO^NT l-YING^EAST 33 FEET AND SOUTH 1.054 FEET FROM SA!D WEST 1/4 CORNER OF SECTION 30. the TOTAL LENGTH OF THE DRAIN ROUTE & COURSE IS 1.230 FEET (.23 MILES). MORE OR LESS THE BASIS OF BEARING OF THtS DESCRIPT.ON IS THE BARRY COUNTY GIS MAPPING SYSTEM The lands comprised within the Drainage District are described as follows. m township. barT^ tawn^hIP 3 NORTH RANGE 10 WEST. YANKEE SPRINGS PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED as- C0MI£fCTIOmAT THE WEST 1/4 C0RN TROFFBSEG?NNING<THENCE CONTINUING SOUTHERLY ALONG HIE TOST SAI2SN 375 FEET T0 THE POI^r°/<?nUTH 89’ 50M3’ EAST 148 FEET. THENCE NORTH 69 33 52 EAST UNE: OFISAIC> SECTION 942 FEET. THENCE SOUTH 89 50 13 , r WEST 2C3 FECT THENCE SOUTH 365^ «.TpANCE NORTH 89“ 00’ 30- EAST104 FEET. THtNCfcb THFNCE NORTH 0 35 34" WEST 05 FEET. 66‘°®r^<;nn?T 242 FEET: THENCE NORTH 30 01 24 EAST 3 );j. RAST 30 f EET THENCE SOUTH 47 02 43 TH!^n5S?FUXH 46" 38'42’ EAST WATERS EDGE OF GUN LAKE. THENCE APPROXIMATELY NORTH 47 rn- e!st1LM0RE OR LEScSoJ?nrP H8 FEET THENCE APPROXIMATELY NORTH 2’ IT 50 WEST ALONG 18 the WATERS EDGE 178 FEEL I he ? 4„. EAgT A, 0NG THE WATERS EDGE 516 THETWMr>HRFS^DGE 68 FEET: THENCE APPROXIMATELY^ORt CONDOMINIUM SUBDIVISION PLAN NO. FEEJriruSL°>R EESS. TO NORTHEAST CORNER OF BAhRY^aj^^ gQ. Qy wEsf 14 (?TMCn‘Mia!tT No. 1024106. BARRY COUNTY RECORDS) T THENCE N0RfH 35. 2T 2Q- WEST SOccPT°THrJ9’ ^ST 00 FEET; THENCcEoT^1FrFI WENCE NORTH 0 40' 00' EAST 59 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 55 F.aEvJSCE NORTH 89' 44’ 35' WESFJ1 EE£! J,psT63 FEET; THENCE NORTH 89“ 55' OS' WEST 162 FEET; ®9JM°C1E3NORE1T71 FEET: THENCE NORTHI0I 10 Cto ^E8TT„62- |8 4G WEST 480 FEET THENCE NORTH 89 41 IoH WEST 98^r 35R5E7oWESTg115oFEET THeNCC^ |QN M AN0 TH£ pQ|NT QEG1NN!NG THE TOTAL AREa Qp DRA|NAGK DISTRICT IS IB 3 ACRES. MORE OR LESS THE BAStS OF BEAR|NG op TH|S descr1PT1ON IS 7 HE BARRY COUNTY GIS MAPPING SYSTEM Dated January 15 2()2o Jim Dull Barry County 0,AinConiniiss.oner . •«’ �Pas* !0 — Thursday, Jawyr f6 • — Tho Hastings Banner TK Township supervisor speaks out on hom । and only the neighbors theateommumty camewhen together did we seeand light the end S'iuffWrin r Yankee Springs Tbwn<hip Supervisor Mark Englerth is speaking out on the issue of home­ lessness in Barn County* and that problem’s possible connection of mental health issues, "People arc falling through the cracks" Englerth told the Barry Count) Mental Health Xuthority board hurt week. He said ths' com­ munity nerd* to wrap its arms around the problem of homelessness. and he wants to put together “an arms of volunteers” to address it •*Wc arc family. We are neighbors. We can be successful. Wc can do a better job. Wc can own it - from the churches to everybody (in the community),” he added. Englerth spoke about a recent situation in bis township when.* people banded together to help an individual who had been causing trou­ ble in Yankee Springs. “We had a problem with a destructive (per­ son) disturbing the peace.” he said. “We addressed it as a mental health issue, not a criminal issue. We couldn't fix his health problem, but we supported the neighbors. *lhe neighbors arc now an advocate and support team for his brother that lives next door. The brother and his wife were mentally, psychologically and emotionally exhausted, of Englerth the tunnel.met ” Wednesday. Jan. 8. with authority board chairwoman Linda Maupin before speaking to the mental health board the next day. He proposed having a “tear sheet, a set of specs” derailing community resources. This information could lx? given to people who may be in need of assistance. “We cannot continue to treat mental health issues as if they’re criminal,” he said. “We had an individual that got off his meds. He functioned for 20 years before he got off his meds and went crazy and went to jaiil for mali­ cious destruction of property. “When he got out (of jail), he was more traumatized than he was when he went in. He was homeless, without a vehicle and without a job." Barry County’s Chief Public Defender Kerri Selltxk said she's familiar with scenari­ os like the one Englerth described. She said she often deals with clients who are homeless. “One of the barriers that we have is. if someone is sitting in jail on a criminal charge and they tell me they’re homeless, they don’t grt oat of jail - Sdleck said. "By law. the mag.sfr.xe can t give them bond. I’m always cnA asking ing on (vp ‘Whose couch are you sleep. 00 you h;nc%vv? Can I ,invc f,’eir address? "If 1 can/(IX>st offtec) box?’ “,f ' v address, giVc tbe court sonic some physical physical .crv‘ 1 can.’’'ough they may not lx- livjn„ shouldn't be ’ get them out of jail. They the time, lfs s’tting in jail because. mosl nf churped wiijjv non-violenl offense (they're NIau ward toPin shapn‘ J^'d Englerth for coming for. right when hn concerns. “He’s absolutely somebody u *a*d if we could have fixed it. 8°‘ng to t^ ‘‘d have fixed it by now. Jrs’ than one entj^ and it’s going to take more mental hca|t|/ h’s going to take more than pnitedWay j ‘ h\ going to take more than ,n8 us and I d ‘a,nk it’s great that he’s cducathelp. we shon^’hink the things we can do to Authority \r ’ suggested c *Ce Chairman Robert Nelson Executive DirJ’r,Ccting with United Way community Or h^ni Forbes to set up u “Ixt's bl^^^ton on this issue. together wjlb , °ut a half-day and come agencies, w|lai ?/ w»th United Way, and the and spend the m cou^ br’np 10 lhc table can collabo^^ming talking about how we can collabora. ^ns • « ----------•! >lite iefha- ,. Nc|son s.^n,tnely help (address) this issue; Yankee Springs Township Supervisor Mark Englerth addresses lhe Barry County Mental Health Authority board last week regarding his concerns about homelessness in lhe county. Rain raises levels of local lakes Barry ISD hires new social worker Luke Froncheck excused absences should read “a written Jcxsicn Courtright statement from a healthcare provider.” He Contributing Writer The Barn Intermediate School Board suggested adding a note explaining that Tuesday unanimously approved the hiring “illness does not just include student illness; it can also include family illness.” of Rachel Janies as a new social worker. Board Vice President Dr. Robert Becker Though James is new to the position, she previously worked for BISD as a part-time suggested changing a sentence to “excused transitions coordinator. James had left to absences include but are not limited to the take a full-time poison as a social worker in following .’’The board agreed and the words “not limited to” were added. another school district. -Weeks informed the board that with the When the full-time opportunity opened, she said she was interested in reluming help of various employees, the district is now keeping track of attendance BISD Superintendent Rich Franklin said. Assistant Superintendent for Special electronically using Google Sheets. Education Daw n Weeks said that in the past, Prev iously, teachers kept track of attendance a grant was available specifically for the manually. Electronic attendance allows transitions coordinator position, which was teachers to take attendance twice a day and required by state law. The law changed, and give office professionals access to attendance records. the position is no longer required. •Franklin gave a brief update on the early “Rachel was a fantastic transitions coordinator.” Weeks said, adding that James childhood fiscal monitoring. He said, “There really is not much to update you missed the work. on.” A team of auditors from Maner In other business: -The board voted unanimously to approve Costerisan finished their audit in early the endowment fund procedures and forms December and took the information back to for the disbursement of funds housed at. the . review and write their report. It has only Barry Community Foundation. The only been a,few weeks ^ince the audit. Franklin change was a step in the form regarding noted, but the auditors were hopeful that evaluation of the grant to determine if they would have a quick turnaround. LSD grants achieve their purpose. officials are waiting to hear back from the -The board voted in favor of adopting auditors and the state regarding this new attendance procedures. Franklin said one audit. change noted before the meeting under Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON REZONING OF PROPERTIES The Planning Commission for the City of Hastings will hold a Public Hearing for the purpose of hearing written and/or oral comments from the public concerning the rezoning of properties located at 1728 Jacobs Circle 1740 Jacobs Circle 1748 Jacobs Circle 1752 Jacobs Circle 400 W. Indian Hills Drive. The Planning Commission will consider the proposed rezoning of said property from the R-S Suburban Residential District to R-R Rural Residential District. The public hearing will be held at 7:00 PM on Monday, February 3, 2020 in City Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. " . INDIAN HILLS DRIVE JACOBS CIRCLE Weekend showers added to high lake levels for lake residents in southern Barr)’ County. According to the National Weather Service, about 2 I* jnc|ics of rain fell in the area over the weekend. Those couple of inches raised levels on already swollen lakes in the Delton area. “We’ve just got too much water,” County Drain Commissioner Jim Dull said. Four lakes have reported high water levels, he said. Pleasant Lake is currently at 930 feet. Dull said.adding that it’s the highest it has ever been. Crooked Lake is at 927.875, but a pump taking water from lhe lake to a nearby detention basin is running. The pump is also running along M-43 east of Cloverdale Lake. “We’ve just been getting so much rain that we can’t catch up,” Dull added. Long Lake is up for inches. Cloverdale Lake is 8 inches above the lowest level of last year but is still 10 inches below its highest level. Dull couldn’t directly access the elevation levels forthelake.The measurements he was able to give were from a stake he put at a low' part of the Ikke last year. “We are trying to keep water out of people’s homes,*’ Di'T said. “But people are just pumping and punning and pumping.” as top towO dteimiDfcffD Michigan has garnered attention from sev­ eral national publications as a premier travel destination. In “Where to Go in 2020: The Best Places to Travel This Year,” TripSavvy named Michigan as the best destination for outdoor enthusiasts on its hand-selected annu­ al list of 19 places around the world that appeal to various types of travelers. Tlie national travel website highlights a number of Michigan’s outdoor gems including Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the Tunnel of Trees along M-H9,Tahquamcnon Falls, Marquette, Pictured Rocks and others. “With more than 19 million acres of forest and 3,000 miles of shoreline, Michigan is an underappreciated outdoor playground,” TripSavvy says. Travel + Leisure magazine included the Great Lakes on its “50 Best Places to Travel in 2020” list, an annual compilation of the best vacation spots around lhe globe. Included among such far-flung locales as Barbados, Qatar and New Zealand, the Great Lakes were cited as the “next hot cruise destination,” with a number of new small cruise ships that provide travelers with ample opportunity to exp|orc (he Lakes’ abundant freshwater. Travel + Editor-in Chief Jacqueline Gifford also appeared on “The Today Show” to shan; (hc lisU giving a shout­ out to both the Great Lakes and Mackinac Island. Michigan Was a| . company on Conde Nast Trave|cr\ ."n Best Placcs 10 Go *" 7020" 4" h Sou-hwes. Michigan as a top destination for travelers this and a laid-back A copy of the proposed changes and map are available for public inspection from 8 00 to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday at the Office of the Community Development Director, 201 East State Street. Hastings, Michigan 49058. Questions or comments can he directed to Dan King. Community Development Director, at 269.945.2468 or dking&r hastingsmi.org • The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days notice to the City Clerk al 269.945.2468 or TDD call relay services 800.649.3777. 1J5745 Jane M. Saurman City Clerk Playground equipment and benches are under water in Hope Township Park on the shore Cloverdale Lake. (Photo by Dave Jackson) includes spots #re a "mix of well-known SJ‘X under-the-radar destinations” and uno ■ hour drive of Z01 m°st of them ’ Chicago- ine Mignty Mackinac Bridge separates lhe two peninsulas that are garnering attention as top travel destinations. (File photo) The Northern Michigan communities of Beaver Island and Charlevoix were included for their natural appeal to outdoor enthusiasts, beachgoers, and stargazers, while Jackson's rich history, downtown public art, and charming local eateries are a few of the reasons to visit lhe southern Michigan city. And in another nod to Michigan’s vast outdoor assets, the Tribune recognizes Marquette, calling it “an ideal base to explore the broader region - an area long known for natural beauty.” “These accolades reflect what we’ve known all along - Michigan is a slate that features incredible natural spaces, authentic destinations, hidden gems and unique experiences that appeal to travelers from around the country and the globe," Dave Ixirenz. vice president of Travel Michigan, said in a press release. Travel Michigan is part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “First-lime travelers who visit Michigan from other states and countries are always amazed by Michigan’s many attributes, and we’re pleased that national travel publications are sharing our message with their readers.’’ Lorenz said. Michigan truly is a four-season travel destination, with activities and attractions unmatched anywhere else, he added. For more than 13 years, the award-winning Pure Michigan marketing campaign has showcased Michigan as a premier and unique travel destination, driving increased travel spending in the state. /\ study released in 2019 by SMARInsights highlights key insights into both the economic impact and the effectiveness of the campaign in motivating out-of-state trips to Michigan for leisure travel. It found that in 2018, more than 2.1 million trips were made to Michigan from outside of lhe stale as a result of exposure to tbe Pure Michigan campaign. These visitors spent $2.5 billion in communities and local businesses across the state. The result of these trips and visitor spending was a return on investment of $9.28 tor the Pure Michigan campaign in 2018, compared to $8.99 in 2017. More information van be found al michigan.org. �7;i. Havings B,w<z _.. Thursday. January 16. 2020 — Pri-f 1 . LHS cheer ups d^S^e of difficulty __ i. Brett Bremer Sparr \ Editor If the Vikings are going to earn a trip west to the DehaPIcx tor the Division 3 State Finals at the end of the varsity competitive cheer season they haw to be ready to get through the east next month - with a district tournament at Frankenmuth and a regional tournament at Novi should they advance With those goals for February and March the months of November. December and January have been a little different for the Vikings. When coach Kim Martin and her team learned in early November that thev’d be going through the eastern half of the state postseason tournament, the Vikings knew they d have to have (heir back tucks in round two perfected and that round three was going to need a little more pizazz. Only the top four teams from each of the two regional* in each division qualify for the stale finals each year. “The lop teams arc over there Lakewood head coach Kim Martin said. “You’ve got to play the game. You’ve got to do what they’re doing. Everything over there is visual, you move, you go, you don’t put stunts down and walk, you keep your flyer in the air. We knew we had to do that.” The Vikings put up progressively higher overall scores in three meets last week culmi­ nating in a 751.4200 at their Lakewood Viking CheerFest Friday, finishing tops among the five varsity teams competing. ” This season has been going really well for us so far.” Lake wood junior flyer Jess Hawkins said. “We started in November, so we have had a lot of practice lime. Our first competition wasn’t until January’, so we had more time to perfect more difficult stunts and tumbling. That has really helped us get focused and prepare. Everyone has just been focused and on for competition days for the most part. Everybody doing their job when it needs to be done has been really helpful for us.” A 230.8 in round one and a 216.120 in round two Friday were the Vikings' highest scores of the season in those two opening rounds. The Vikings upped their round two score by nearly ten points from the Greater Lansing Activities Conference jamboree two nights earlier. Lakewood closed the meet with a score of 3042* in round three, just off the team’s best score of lhe season in that round where the program has increased the demands on flyers, bases and spotters alike (his winter. “We don’t hit the ground very often (in round three),” Martin said. "We don’t pul them down on the mound very often. They’re up probably two-thirds of lhe cheer, the flyers are off the ground. It’s a little more creative, and a Ikfic more visual than we have done in the past. We still want to add some stuff to it that we’re capable of doing.They have got to ... ... Wednesday, outscoring (he hosts 1AA 744 S6> ■ f’jrl.s know that.” Manin said. “They ju t have (<> step up and they have to figure it out. The kicker is when you get them at practice, they re fmc. You put them out here and it mental.” Mason had the second best score at the five team competition, finishing with 736 .72 points. The Bulldogs were about nine points better than the Vikings in round three, bul Lakewood had a nU)re than 20-point had heading into the last round. Gobles was third with a score ol 661.04. ahead of West Catholic 643.12 and Maple Valley 578.70. lhe Maple Valley girls scored n 183.10 in mund one, 14 J .70 in round two and 253.90 in round three. Lakewood opened the Greater Lansing Activities Conference season by winning the conference jamboree hosted by the Lions last 613.60 at lhe top o! the standings. Mkewood had the top score of each num . scoring a 230.40 in round one. a 207.46 in round two and a 306.70 in round three. , Maple Valley narrowly edged Wcbbervil e. lor second place. The Weblx-rville g»rN storvd 608.30 points Maple Valley was the only team other than Ijikewood to score more than 200 points in round one. earning a score of 201 .(*)• A tenpoint deduction in round two dropped the Lions down to a score of 162.50 in that round, and then they closed lhe day with a 249.50 in round three. Webberville had a couple of deductions of its own, 16 points worth in round three. !(> drop it behind lhe Lions. . Leslie wa. fourth with 593.44 points,ahead of Stockbridge 585.40 and Perry 537.90. ,. Lakewood's Jess Hawkins. Hailey Gibson and Hoku Ka’Alakea cheer in formation during the Vikings' round two performance Friday at their own Lakewood Viking ChoerFest. (Photo by Brett Bremer) clean it up. The flyers have got to do the same thing every lime and the bases have got to keep their feet planted.” Hawkins is in her third varsity season as a flyer, and said her freshman year she recalls being up in the air for only three or lour stunts during a round three performance. “Now csery .sectiorTVe have a slum going up and we move with people in stunts more,” Haw kins said. “Flyers just don’t hit the ground as often. It keeps the cheer going smoother and faster, and it is a little bit more difficult.” * If anything goes wrong, (here is no time between stunts to settle nerves or shaky mus- “Before, when we bad set down, break, move into the next stunt, you got some time to recoup and get your brain around what was hap|xming,“ Hawkins said When they’re right in a row like IhTOthey’re Just like, wc have got to go. If you mess up you have to get back on. it is more fast-paced and stressful.’ She said hav ing a few competitions in a row last week instead of just practice after practice helped settle her nerves as bit. Coach Martin said this is the toughest round three routine she has ever had her girls performing. There is of course still work to do in every round. l he Vikings had a couple missed back tucks in round two. but overall coach Martin said the skill was better than it had been earli­ er in the week. “Wc ha\c to throw them. We go over to the east and we don’t have them, we’re sunk. The Lakewood’s girls shout from their stunt groups during round three Friday at their. CheerFest. (Photo by Brett Bremer) l'5S«0 Ban-y County Community Dialogue Event Purpose: Discussion tor Potential Millage Election August 2020 The public is invited to participate in a discussion hosted by the Barre County Board of Commissioners. TowerPinkster of Kalamazoo will facilitate the discussion. The topics will be the current use and condition of the Barre County Jail and Sheriffs Office, and the current use and condition of the Commission on Aging facility in Hastings Information will he shared and public feedback and input is invited. WOSDAY. JANUARY 16 The Maple Valley varsity competitive cheer team runs through its round two routine (luring the Lakewood Viking CheerFest Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Landing gear up when plane touches down A single-engine airplane landed at Hastings Barry County Airport Sunday afternoon with­ out the landing gear down, causing damage to the aircraft. , lf . Michigan State Police f«»n lhe Hastings detachment were called 10 the airport about 3 p.m. Investigators said (he pilot told them he didn’t lower the landing gear because he htidn t tx-’en given an audible sivnul advising him to lower (he gear. 'file pilot was not injured. ASIDES OF Dak Time: Wednesday, January 22, 2020 at 7:00 PM FRIDAY. MARCH Location: Thomapple Valley Church 2750 S. M-43 Highw^iy, Hastings, MI 49058 TIME TO GET YOUR wffil ’Hf «l FIREKEEPERS CAilNO-HOTtl I 94 tn Exit U>4 I ^^1.' I'J.tn Avjp.j,. । pj.,^ c,n.k Mt 49014 .j-;t -.< • connection with a hold“P lhal 1 wxtion wim Country -Store in •’londay afternoon at Liuw l,-«tings Charier Township.„Tucsda\ at hcob Braddum Wednesday in 1)'unu';CouHnV6,|j‘ by M“8islra,c l'r“,‘1' ..I robbers' charge, In। addition to the pro. “r*ldum also is charged d jn > He is being held on Sgt 'Barry County Ja’1jjtate Police BfJtut Fuller of the M>chi|'.»> 514 detachment in Hastings. Court records indicate Braddum pleaded guilty last fall 10 a domestic violence charge lie w;k sentenced to 91 days in jail and one year of probation, with that jail term suspend­ ed pending successful completion of probi­ tion. records show. * No information is available as to how much was taken in the robbery . An investigation into the holdup is mg. Fuller said. ~ Braddum is scheduled for a probable cause hearing on Jan. 22 in |)iMrivl („„„ % |( 1 Anyone with further information on’ the robbery Is asked to contact the State Pol . post m Wayland at t269) 792-2213 4 c-t of Hu ■ Eaird ot\ 'r.i; mi 'tiers in;iy be present. tr .. ................. ■■ Schools System Suspect charged in Little’s Country Store robbery Greg Chandler Stajj Writer A 19-vear-old Hastings man has been ^sted m'd charged with armed robbery Qii'.>tions please ciilk Barre Counlv Administration (269) 945 1’284 Board of Education Meetings will be: $10,000 PRIZEBingo BOARD ’ KING & QUEEN every Friday 81 Saturday Doors: 4 FM THURSDAYSDAYS * Cl osr 0 TUESDAYS * 6 h PM AYS Visit FireKeepertC^nO <*”for pm ' , $ gTjfigf Monday. January 20. 2020 Southeastern Elementary School Monday. February 24, 2020 Star Elementary Munoay, March 16. 2020 Hait.ngs High School FAC Monday. April 20. 2020 Hastings Middle School Monday. May 18 2020 Hastings High School PAC Monday, June 29. 2020 Hastings Msddlo Scnool All meetings start at 7:00 .,,zrt?oN TIME TO GET YOUR U**1' IMtof..lW I «W»M- Firekeepers casino hohi •auu cm»< : '’X' All work session has been cancelled. �p 1 Veitch’s 800th win keeps Vikes atop GLA^ E 1c r* F. A m i« to cp th hi he bl SC nc er Pr SL <k P* Maple Valley junior Jesse Brumm looks for an opening as he works on top of Perry s •Seih Grooms during their GLAC dual at Lakewood High School Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Sports Editor ' laikewood wrestling coach Bob Veitch remembers win number one as a thrilling Viking upset of Caledonia, with a couple big headlocks taking down state-ranked Fighting Scots nearly 40 years ago. - Dual win number 799 came Wednesday evening as the Uikevvood varsity wrestling team opened the second GLAC Quad of the season with a 72-6 win over Perry. Victory SOO soon followed as the Vikings defeated the Leslie Blackhawks 51-30. “It is like any program. If somebody stays at a program long enough and builds stability there is success,’’ Veitch said. “I don’t care what sport it is. I have been here long enough and had good kids, and we’ve been success­ ful.” _• “He is a nervous wreck.” the Vikings cur­ rent co-head coach Tony Hanner said of •Veitch. “It doesn’t matter if we arc wrestling .the worst team, he always wants the best for the kids. That means all 14 that arc wrestling, •he wants them in lhe best position to win to have a great experience.” n Veitch entered lhe season third on the MHSAA list of all-time winningest wrestling poaches behind only Stevensville Lakeshore’s Bruce Bittenbcnder and Hudson’s Scott Marry. The Leslie Blackhawks came into this sea­ son as lhe Vikings’ lop challengers for a con­ ference crown. The Lakewood wrestlers, ranked fifth in the state in Division 3, are now 4-0 in GLAC duals. laikcwood got wiling early against Leslie. Nathaniel Graham beat Leslie state qualifier Ethan Fehrenbach 8-4 in lhe 160-pound bom to open coach Veitch’s 800th varsity wrestling /coaching victory. Kyle Petrie scored a pin nt {171 for a 9-0 Lakewood lead. After a jBlackhawk pm at 189. Lakewood’s Jon Clack ‘pinned Leslie state qualifier Bun Smieska in •the second period of the 215-pound match. •Smieska. who Clack pinned al rhe Individual State Finals a year ago. came out strong scor­ ing two take downs of Clack in lhe opening period before the Viking stale medalist earned a second-period reversal and put Smieska on his back. Veitch called it a huge win for Clack because he was able lo through a couple of unsuccessful early attempts io throw Smieska. The Vikings added five forfeit wins and a pin from Kanon Atwell lo finish oil the Blackhaw ks. It was a banner night for Atwell loo as he earned bis 150th varsity victory with his 6-4 decision against Pern’s Jacob Orweller who was lhe lone reluming state qualifier in the Ramblers’ line-up “It’s really positioning. Il’s a chess match for later on.” Harmer said ot lhe showdown with the Blackhawks, who they will see again at the conference meet. “You’re trying to match up your best guys against their best guys, but in the same sense you don’t want to give up any loses that could put you in a bad position (in the dual), but you need to know that going into the league meet for individu­ als. 1 am sure that is what they were doing." Ixslie got some big points doing that at 152 pounds, moving up 140 pounder Grant Weber who managed lo pin lhe Vikings’ Vem Fields early in the second period of their bout. “We’ve got some work to do. staying in position and moving more on lhe bottom. 1 think Vem will come back strong. He’s going lo want it.” Harmer said. In all. four Vikings were honored with ban­ ner presentations at the home meet. Clack was presented with his 150th varsity win banner as well Wednesday and Fields was honored for his 100th varsity victory. Clack, is a three­ time slate qualifier and two-time state medal ist. Fields and Atwell each qualified for the individual state finals as freshmen, and Atwell relumed to the finals as a junior last winter to earn his first state medal. Coach Veitch, who has been leading the program along with Hanner lhe last couple of seasons, said it wits great kids who allowed ^he Lakewood varsity wrestling team gathers with coach Bob Veitch as they celebrate his 800th dual meet victory following wins over Perry and Leslie at the GLAC Quad at Lakewood High School Wednesday, Jan. 8. (Photo by Brett Bremer) him to reach milestone after milestone throughout his long coaching career, with the assistance of great coaches and parents, terrif­ ic program sponsors and most of all lhe sup­ port of his wife who allowed him to coach a sport he loves all these years. Veitch said he expects this to be his last big round numbered milestone. The Maple Valley grapplers were in the old gymnasium at Lakewood High School Wednesday too. and will finish off GLAC duals at home against lhe Vikings Jan. 29. Hie Lions faced the same foes the Vikings did Tuesday, falling 50-18 to Leslie before a tough 33-30 win over the Perry Ramblers. .\J Raymond scored a 2-0 win over the Lions al 171 pounds against Leslie’s Nathaniel Courtney, getting a third-period reversal for the only points of the bout. Jesse Brumm scored a l4-8dccision against the Blackhaw ks’ Cannon Risner at 130 pounds for their team’s other win on the mat. Gage Ertnan and Jordan Thorton at 103 pounds and 111 respectively, scored forfeit w ins against Leslie fix the Lions. In the end. the Lions’ dual with Perry’ came down to the 145-pound match where Tristin Collins needed a win to clinch lhe dual for Maple Valley. Collinshad his ups and downs throughout the match with Drake VanWormer. but the two battled toa4-4 stalemate through three periods. Neither wrestler was able to score in the initial overtime session, or either of the two tie-breaking rounds before a rever­ sal by Collins in the ultimate tie-breaking ■ ■&£ ________________________ Lakewood senior Jon Clack nears a pm against Leslie s Benjamin Smieska durina their GLAC dual at Lakewood High School Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Braroar) round finally secured him and the Lion team the win. Raymond at 171 pounds had a pin for the Lions in the dual with the Ramblers, and Brumm and David Hosack-Frizzcll each scored decisions. Hosack-Frizzell’s came in overtime too, a 3-2 victory over Andrew McConnell at 189 pounds. Brumm bested Seth Grooms 8-2 at 135 pounds. Maple Valley got forfeit wins by F.rtman. Dante Buttleman and Cody Tay lor in the dual. Taylor's arm-raising al 152 pounds finished off the three-point win for the Lions after Collins’ victory. •* iiM sore win over visiting Falcons The Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ basket­ ball team scored its first Southwestern Athletic Conference Valley Division victory- of the season Friday at home. Hw Panthers knocked off visiting Constantine 41-35 to improve their overall record to 3-3 this season. it was a nice bounce back for the Panthers afterletiingoneslipagaimtngnmsl Kalamazoo Christian the week before. The win over the Falcons moves the DK boys to 1-3 in the SAC Valley. Constantine is now 3-3 overall this season after scoring a win al Berrien Springs Tuesday. The Panthers will make the trip lo Constantine for their second SAC Valley match-up Feb. 13. Delton Kellogg returns to action at Lawton Friday night.and then will be home lo take on Parchment in a non-conference bailgame Tuesday (Jan. 21). TH wrestlers have no trouble toppling Wayland The Thomapple Kellogg varsity wrestling ,ea"’ improved >o 2" °K Gold Conference this ">nK'r Wl" “ 58’15 over Wayland at Holland H‘S|1 Sch?°l Wednesday. ,.,TK also added a 70-5 win over Unity cl'ristilnatthcoKGold/GrcenQUad. The Troian team had several wrestlers who *cnt i-0 including Ashton Corson. Hunter p|,sch. Zach Gibson. Jackson Curtis, Kyron Zoct- Andress Middleton- Auston Chivis. Nick Bushman, Jake Middleton, Adam Bush and Carter West. The TK varsity team was scheduled to return to action last night. Jan. 15, against Hamilton and Wyoming in Wyoming. TK will be al West Ottawa Saturday and then vv ill host an OK Gold/Grecn Quad with By ron Center. Forest Hills Eastern and Holland next Wednesday (Jan. 22). Delton Kellogg’s Cole Pape around a Constantine defender post during the Panthers’ SAC victory over the visiting Falcons (Photo by Perry Hardin) works in the Valley Friday. Saxon girls facing 1-8’s best this week I he v , ,rsilV girls’ baskellxtll team Suflc'«! a’mir ol l»ugh lnlers<ate-8 Athletic Com., i ., in the past week. J^^nCC„°STn Western bested the Saxons 51 h x,n 1 Jari * ji..,). School Tuesday . The ll:'St"'£l listed at the sixth ranked ,C1MSit thecate in D'"”1’" 2 C‘’,”i"g panther senior center Dawson Grizzle rises over everyone to get a shot up in the paint during his team’s victory over visiting Constantine Friday al Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) week. Harper Creek bested the Hastings girls 47-18 in their conference clash that hK)k place at Lillie Causer’s Arena in downtown Detroit Saturday. The Hasting-; girls fall tol)-8 on the season with the two losses. The Saxons return to conference action Inday on (he road at Jackson Northwest. It will be another lough task.The Moumies are 7-1 so far this season, with that one loss by tour points un lhe road al Parma Western. The Saxons w ill be on the road again Tue<dav -u Pvnnfteld. y Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads �W IM M The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 16.2020 — 16 Vines take low-scoring affair with Lions Brett Bremer Sports E<liTor Moments of offensive execution wen. <• and far between Monday ninht t^v few and Maple Valley combined for just in lhe first half. J 1 14 P«ms Everyone wax happy with tin* ,r ♦­ in‘* in from the wing to Ellie Possehn and Kria’’'’ Possehn for lay-ups after rood J/ Knsl,nc back side. The two buckets stretched °n point Lakewood lead to five'at the for^n^t‘sto.;b^e^,^,dcnou^ Kelly Meints said. “We had quite a few mgs and available shots to take, and eithTwe wercn-lt eno“8h ,o lake them or they weren t fa mg. and then they weren't rebounding. 7 "We finally slowed down enough and got “,“n^omc «”'<> back-screens there, she added. "That finally opened up for us a little bit Wc didn’t ran that in the first half at all. That definitely helped give us a little kick-start, get the intensity up and lucki­ ly wc were able to carry it through today." With lhe Lions planning a Wednesday eve­ ning non-conferencc game, lhe schedule was adjusted to create lhe Monday match-up, giv­ ing fans the chance to see the girls at Lake wood High School Monday and lhe Lion and Viking boys at Maple Valley High School Tuesday evening (Jan. 14). Anja Kelley led the Vikings with seven points and Olivia Lang had six points as well as 13 rebounds with a monster effort on the glass. Lake wood was just 7-of-19 at the free throw line on the night. Six straight misses at the free throw line in the fourth quarter by the Vikings allowed the Maple Valley girls to keep hanging around, but the Lions had a couple shots bound off the rim and couldn’t get a shot off in their last charge up the court in the final seconds. Lake wood held a lead of as many as six points after buckets in lhe paint by Lang and Haylee Marks to open lhe second half. Tlie Lions fought right back, taking a one-point lead a couple of times, on a nice drive by Alison McGlockin and a triple from Trisla Medina. Medina had ten points for Maple Valley Maple Valley’s Jiliann Moore drives by Lakewood's Olivia Lang In the lane during their GLAC match-up at Lakewood High School Monday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lakewood forward Olivia Lang gets a shot up in the paint as she’s hit by Maple Valley’s Jiliann Moore during their GLAC match-up Monday at Lakewood High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) and Ashlyn Wilkes finished with six. Lang ripped down back-to-back offensive rebounds with two minutes lo go in the third quarter, finally putting the ball back up and in to erase what would be Maple Valley’s final lead of the night, moving the Vikings in front 18-17. A couple free throws by Ellie Possehn extended the Viking lead lo 24-17 with four and a half minutes left in the fourth quarter. Tlie Lions inched back to within a point though, getting a free throw from Jiliann Moore, a short jumper by Wilkes and another three from Medina off an assist from Wilkes in transition that made it 24-23 in favor of Lakewood with a minute to go, and a Kelley free throw with 2.6 seconds left in the game Lakewood guard Anja Kelley runs the offense from the top of the key during her team’s two-point win over visiting Maple Valley Monday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) would turn out to be the only point scored the rest of lhe way. Lakewood moved to 4-4 overall with lhe win Monday, and has won back-to-back ball­ games coming out of the holiday break. 'Ihe Vikings face a lough Great Lansing Activities Conference contest at home against Olivet Friday. "We have to execute. Execution is the key term," Lion head coach tandon Wilkes said. "When you don’t execute things like that hap­ pen. and the last part of the game has abso­ lutely zero to do with it. We don’t execute early, and we don’t make changes when we have to, things like that are going to happen. We put ourselves in lhe situation we were in.” The Lions will continue lo work on making better, straight-line cuts, boxing out oppo­ nents and other little things as lhe season moves forward. "We don’t do all the little things that it is going to take to win basketball games,” coach Wilkes said. "We try to rely on pure raw abil­ ity and that only goes so far. When you don’t do the little things that doesn’t really matter.’’ Coach Wilkes was pleased with Medina’s performance in the ballgame. The Lions were 0-8 on the season heading into last night’s contest with Lansing Catholic. Last Friday, the Lions were bested 60-43 by visiting Perry in another GLAC bailgame. The Ramblers opened their contest at MVHS Friday on a 25-9 run. Alyssa Welsh dominated the contest, scoring 34 points to go with three rebounds, six assists and a pair of steals. She was 1 l-of-2l from lhe floor and 6-of-12 from behind lhe three-point line. Sophie Knickerbocker added eight points and Emily Rathbun seven for Perry. The Lions got 23 points from Ashlyn Wilkes and six each from Medina and Moore. Wilkes, Moore and Alison McGlocklin had five rebounds each for Valley. Lakewood boys score double-digit win at Valley Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Vikings have their first winning streak of the season to head home with. The Lakewood varsity boys’ basketball team scored a 50-40 Greater Lansing Activities Conference victory at Maple Valley Tuesday to improve to 2-0 since lhe calendar flipped to 2020, and 2-4 overall this season. Lake wood head coach Chris Duits is looking forward to getting on the home court in the days ahead. Lakewood hasn’t played on its home floor since its Dec. 10 season opener with Charlotte. The Vikings host Olivet Friday and then Leslie Tuesday. The Vikings will then hit the road to face Leslie Jan. 21. Lakewood got its first win Jan. 7 at Belding. "We’re starting lo believe," Duits said. “We have got to start working harder. We’ll see how we handle a little bit of success. We have three big games in a row, two of them at home, and we have a little opportunity to make a little noise in the league now. We let one slip away against Perry (a three-point loss Dec. 20), and I know we can play with any­ body in this league this year.” The Vikings went on a 16-6 run in the sec­ ond quarter at Maple Valley Tuesday, pushing their lead to 32-18 at the half and then as large as 23 points in the fourth quarter before mak­ ing sure everybody got some timc on the court. Both teams were at their best when they had the patience to work the ball inside, the Vikings to senior forward Jacob Elenbaas and the Lions to junior forward Curtis Walker. Walker led the Lions with 16 points and 11 rebounds. Elenbaas had ten points for Ute Vikings, and he was one of three Lakewood guys to finish in double-figures. Tlie Vikings also got ten points from senior guard Bryant Makley and II from junior guard Jashaun Hill. Freshman guard Jayce Cusack added eight points and junior guard Brady Gawne six. "When we got the ball inside, we had suc­ cess," Duits said. "We got a little more aggressive defensively in lhe second half, we forced a few turnovers, we got out and ran a little bit once we secured the rebound and caught litem off guard a little bit when they weren’t running back. We got a couple easy points we didn’t have to work so hard for. Hill had lhe most success finishing m tran­ sition for the Vikings, leading a 9-0 run in lhe middle of the fourth quarter that pushed his team’s lead over 20 points. Eli Nelson chipped in 11 “ £ Lions, scoring all 11 in die final 3.40of he bailgame to pull his team back within ten ’’'“Eb made a big difference on both ends ol Lakewood varsity boys’ basketball coach Chris Duits talks things over with senior forward Carsen DeLeeuw during their GLAC contest at Maple Valley High School Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) “We’re starting to believe. We have got to start working harder. We’ll see how we handle a little bit of success.” - Chris Duits Lakewood head coach floor," Lion head coach Ryan Nevins said. "He is coming off an injury and this was his first game back. He did a nice job of getting io rim for us. I thought Curtis (Walker) did a nice job early on in the game." Shooting the basketball continues to be a struggle from lhe Lions, even from the free throw line they were just 9-of-22. "I thought wc did a pretty good job defen­ sively. but gave up way too many second chance opportunities." Nevins said. "We arc going to continue work on those things. I keep telling the guys we are really close to break­ ing through. If wc can clean up some of those things we will give ourselves a chance to win at the end of games.’’ The Liions are now 1-6 overall this season They hoM Dansville for a non-conferencc ballgame hnday and then will be home against Tuesday to take on Lansing Christian. Maple valley forward Mugneston Heckathorn crashes between L 's Maison Neustifter (3) and Jaco& as (5) to get a shot up duringI contest at Maple Valley Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremen chool Lakewood forward Kaoden Tuitman goes over Maple Valley’s Blaze Sensiba for a shot after pulling down an offensive rebound Tuesday at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) �The Hastes B-winef The Delton Kellogg girls got back on the winning side of the ledger with a game winner by sophomore Mary Whitmore with 4.6 sec- onds left Friday night. Tlie Panther varsl|y P snapped a four-gnm^^^g * * DK was led by Hollic McManus’ 20 points, tight rebounds, five steals and six assists Friday. Iler back-court mate Erin Kapteyn had ten points and six rebounds. On the defensive end. Panther guard Abbie Bever’s effort against Constantine's best play­ er was key. limiting just three first-quarter ___ ...w« points. “Great effort on the defensive end of the floor by Abbie,” coach Mohn said. “Very proud of her and and how she factored in to the overall success of our team.” Whitmore finished with eight points. The DK girls could have been in better shape had they taken better care of the basket­ ball. They turned it over 22 times and also allowed 13 second-chance points on 14 offen­ sive rebounds by the Falcons. “Wc have to shore those two areas up if we are to find success in lhe future. It has been an issue for us all season,” Mohn said. He was pleased to have seven girls score for his team. “Our exchange-student from Spain. Eva Fernandez-Villalobos, is starting to come on and be more of a factor.” Fernandez-Villalobos had four points, six rebounds, a steal and a blocked shot Friday, while only turning the ball over twice. Katie Tobias ended up with 13 rebounds to lead DK in that category . “lite last couple of games, and the last week or so in practices, she has been a crazyon the glass. Not sure what she’s been eating ,but hopefully that will continue,” Mohn said of Tobias. “Great stuff coming from her.” Delton Kellogg guard Erin Kapteyn The Delton Kellogg girls have another rises over a Constantine defender to put SAC Valley match-up at Law ton Friday. The a shot high off the glass Friday night. Panthers are now 4-4 overall this season and (Photo by Perry Hardin) 1-3 in the SAC Valley. bah p?Orv ? x<p8 in the dosing seconds. 1 he baSkc'b:"‘ •hp 15 ’ ~ Mike M°,in opened his ftys- head coach at DKHS and is "ow in'S X>h season leading the girls’ Delton Kellogg’s Eva Fernande Villalobos looks to get a shot up in th paint during the Panthers' SAC Valley win over visiting Constantine Friday. (Phot by Perry Hardin) -- • . -22 ----- • Delton Kellogg’s Mary Whitmore works to beat Constantine defender Charlee Balcom to lhe basket during the Panthers' win over the visiting Falcons Friday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) DK-TK-HHS swimmers bestedi by Bengals in first league duaS Tlie Delton Kellogg-Thomapple KelloggHastings varsity boys* swimming and diving learn opened the OK Rainbow Tier II Conference season with a 115-71 loss to vis- * Andrew Tuokkola was a winner of two individual events for DK-TK-HHS. taking the 500-yard freestyle in 5 minutes 3852 seconds and the 200-yard individual medley in 2: 08.93. Tuokkola also teamed with Sam Randall, Jon Arnold and Jack Kensington to win the 400-yard freestyle at the end of the evening in 3: 47.17. Gram Price won the diving competition for DK-TK-HHS, scoring 199.10points. DK-TKHHS had the top three divers at lhe meet, with Blake Sheldon second and Dane Bames third. Randall was the runner-up in lhe 100-yard butterfly in 58.62 and the 100-yard back­ stroke in 1:03.94. Kensington placed second in the 100-yard freestyle in 56.13. The DK-TK-HHS team will return to action Jan. 23 with a non-conference dual against Plainwell. The team’s DK-TK-HHS Invitational that was planned for last Saturday was cancelled due to the weather forecast. Saxons manage a couple pins in loss to Mounties ‘ The Hastings varsity wrestling team had its lnterstate-8 Athletic Conference record evened at 1-1 with a 66-12 loss at Jackson Northwest Wednesday (Jan. 8). The Saxons got a pair of pins in the dual, with Robby Slaughter sticking Noah Sussex early in the second period of their 135-pound bout and Jackson Dubois pinning James Nurkka in the second period al 215 pounds. Hastings had two other guys go the dis­ tance Wednesday. Mason Denton battled Northwest’s Braden Gariety at 130 pounds. losing out in 4-1 decision. Adam Haselius managed a 3-0 decision against the Saxons’ Tyler Dull at 171 pounds. Northwest came into the dual ranked tenth in the state in Division 2 - the lone state ranked team in the 1-8 entering 2020. The Saxons were slated to travel to Lumen Christi for an 1-8 quad tonight (Jan. 16), and will be back in action Saturday at the Carson City-Crystal Duals. The Saxons will host their own 1-8 quad next Wednesday (Jan. 22). DK athletics h)@in)ors 2020 Hall of Fame class Constantine at Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) 9 yS baskelbal1 9ames again Saxon boys bested in tie-breaker with Beaver bowline team 1| was just s|iy ofvarsity victoryboys Monday at” M-66 ^5 Hastings ’ bowling team Bowl. Harper Creek won baker-game tie-breaker ‘0Pearn a 16-15 win over the visiting Saxons. *Htc two teams were knotted at 15-15 at the regularly scheduled conclusion of their lnterstate-8 Athletic Conference dual. Gage Richmond rolled a 207 to earn a point for the Saxon team in the regular games, with John Hinkle and Drew Rhodes also picking up team points. Pins galore asatPanthers h- .ted. «i SAC duals Const^r ge&SS “» t,ne lhe ’< evened at 2-2 with a pair of )(>Sscs 57.fr hosl falcons bested the DK Wrestlers Or 4 «nd S<-Im>lcn,n ran,l'd « 48-36 Win 5‘Mtori Kellogg. 4 liai°,craf‘ •l,ld De,“’" Kcllo;:g each took Hie ”in< "''h,:,r duak and each of l-a.,1 hl'r l<:'1 n'Shh al1 e,ldcd 'n pins. The tbn,;bcd lhe dllai llj|le at in with Sin,ke s fint-penod pin Point ,,o"nd'' hl“,d"v “ 42‘L! h'ad to that Hi|?e|'on clawerl closer on the snrrelxrard hr., Pins fnmi Mutthiiis IlonioHa .w FPn'ld'. Hunter Belew at 189 aiH) ('iUicn al 215 I*’""'1’- l)K al'° h’°l a lorfeil j ()rm /linn Rogers at J 71. Onr had the other pin jur k PouniB. Humer Antolovich >cOrrd cf9rDKat 112. two matches got lu-yond the first peri.. "J11 Orns stuck 1'all,k'r Smith midy through lhe Urird period of their bout Hastings *had a total pin-fall in those reg games of 1478 to best the Beavers’ mar 1426. Saxon Sports Shorts Vinnie Quick battled Schoolcraft’s Caleb Nrewiadomski into the final seconds of the 140-potind match before Nrewiadomski secured the pin. Lane DeLoof, Hunter Martens. Caden JV Boys’ Basketball Sukich. Gary Cramer and Nolan Strake had The Saxon JV boys’ basketball team the other pins for Schoolcraft. bested by Parma Western on the road Tu The Panthers had a few more extended night, 50-34. matches wilh the host Falcons, getting an 8-2 TJ Russell had ten points for the S win from Vincent over Austin Denaway in lhe and Hayden Long added 11. 103-pound match. JV Girls' Basketball Quick scored a pin for the Panthers at 140 The Hastings JV girls' basketball tea pounds for DK in the dual with Schoolcraft, bested 53 36 by visiting Parma W and teammate HomoIla scored a forfeit win al Tuesday. 160 pounds. Chelsea Ertncr led Hastings with ten Constantine got a pair of sudden victory and Madison Pettengill added nine, a wins in overtime. Andrew Colwell edged duo combined for 20 total rebounds. Charlie Zurhorst 9-7 in the 112-pound match. The Saxons fall lo 6-2 overall on the At 189 pounds, the Falcons’ Isaac Hall bested with the loss. They are currently 3-1 Belew 5-2. 1-8 foes so far this winter. There was also as battle at 215-pounds to The Saxons were victorious last Th close lhe night, wilh Constantine's Boe knocking oft Harper Creek 44-40 in Eckman scoring a 16-9 win over Ferris. Creek. Constantine got pins from Jacob Ledesma, Arian Bond led lhe Saxons in the w Dominic Fraschetti, Dylan Reiff. Eric De mas, the Beavers with 14 points and Bfi IYoy Demas and Dakota Anthony in the dual’ added II. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-01-23.pdf c5e25a0eb2fd2c23f19d47ee6fc14524 PDF Text Text — a* Schools prepare shift to ‘whole child’ reporting Can newspapers - and communities - survive? See Story on Page 3 See. Editor^' o>» . ■ See Story on Page 13 4 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 1070490102590500408649058113421 ^.chare Herrertng — 1 N Taffee Dr ' Hastings Ml 49058-1134 TK cheer scores more with less ‘C005 C005 6/3°^094700AM HAS 1 in Thursday. VOLUME 167, No. 4 ANNER PRICE 75C • 2020 Leap into cybersecurity Rep. Calley in town Jan. 27 Sune Rep. Julie Calley will meet with residents in two communities Mondav. Jan. 27. She will be at the Village of Lake Odessa Page Memorial Building, 839 4th Ave., Lake Odessa, from 10 to 11 a.m. Afterward, she will be al the Barry County Courthouse Commissioners’ Chambers, 220 W. State St. Hastings, where she will take individual meetings from 1 to 2 and give a legislative update from 2 to 2:30 p.m. If the school district closest to the meet­ ing location is closed for inclement weath­ er, office hours in that area also will be cancelled. No appointment is necessary. Out of consideration for other attendees, individ­ ual meetings will be limited tn 10 minutes each. Anyone who would like additional time or who is unable to attend the sched­ uled office hours, may email JulieCalleys house.mi.gov or call 517-373-0842. . Rebecca Pierce Editor A new Hastings High School curriculum will have studcnls trying lo attack each other - and it’s not a martial arts class. It’s cyberse­ curity. On Monday, the Hastings Area Schools Board of Education approved a fall launch for a unique cybersecurity curriculum intended to position ils students for six-figure salary’ careers fresh out of high school. vunx-r and anu Technical .mum. Educator -Bob ----------Career Carl, wi’ho will ___teach __ the classes, made the request . for the curriculum last October. “These new courses not only help fill gaps in national employment, but bring new and exciting cur­ riculum to Hastings.” The board’s approval makes Hastings one of the first districts in the state and the nation to offer this program. Carl said. •Through our Busings Department CTF. Advisory Group. ,?nncr acquired a $500,000 donation o» sngntty used HP server equipment to gel this. program started.” he wrote in his tetter to lhc school board. “We have already started converting a classroom with a backroom die ‘off-line’ server room, with <he oft-line’ classroom connected to those servers. This will ensure students cannot disrupt district resources" On Monday, Super,n{cndent Dan Remenap said the program "««>•>>• munity and it hits at • \ or our k‘ds. -This is really something.’ Remenap said the district worked with Kalamazoo Regional Education Service'' Agency to ensure the system is completely See CYBERSECURITY, page 3 Career and Technical Educator Bob Carl, who specializes in computer sciences, digital multimedia design and finance, will be teaching cybersecurity classes at Hastings High School next fall. In the background are, from left, students Justin Dickerson, Scott Fischer and Matthew Sweeney. (Photos by Rebecca Pierce) Parenting tips, free > dinner at workshop The Family Support Center ot Barry I County.jwill host a presentation “Teaching ’’ Kids Mindfulness for Parents and Caregivers.” ; Holly Tiert will be the presenter for the Jan. 27 program at Hastings Baptist Church, 309 E. Woodlawn. Hastings. The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. with a free dinner, followed by the workshop from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The free program teaches techniques of mindful awareness that can help children learn to pay closer attention to their thoughts, feelings and emotions. Parents and caregivers can leant how to help chil­ dren reduce stress and anxiety to enhance their well-being, explore research, get ideas for mindfulness activities and leant more about children’s literacy that sup­ ports mindfulness practices. Attendees will cam 1J hours of train­ ing. Child care is free with pre-registration. Transportation to the Hastings program is available within in the city limits, but must be pre-arranged at registration Individuals may register online al fam­ ily supporthany com, under the ‘what we do' tab and finding the listing for Family Workshop Series or bv calling 269-945­ 5439. Free overdose­ prevention training The Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force will host a free community overdose-prevention training from 6-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 31), at Barry County Community Mental Health Authority. Tliis community overdose-prevention training is in response to the opioid crisis and wjll help participants team about the opioid issue, gain understanding of addic­ tion, be able to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose, and gain skills to be able to respond io an overdose using naloxone. Upon completion of training, partici­ pants oxcf the age of 18 can receive a free naloxone kit. Tire training is being offered with assistance from Southwest Michigan Behavioral Health. Community Outreach and Prevention Network, and lire Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Aci grant. Registration prior to Ute ©Vent is required. Anyone with questions or who would like to RSVP may call Hannah Napolillo. 269-9484200, of email haoap oh'lln# bcxmha.org. Those interested also may RSVP online at hups ^odtiaming. evembnte.com See NEWS BRIEFS, page 2 Efemmtasy $2 million-plus revamp gets thumbs-up A truck landed on the roof of a Crooked Lake residence in the early morning hours of Jan. 16. (Photo provided by Goldsworthy’s Auto and Truck Repair) Truck found on Crooked Lake roaf? following police pursuit Taylor Owens Staff Writer The Michigan Slate Police attempted to pull over a truck in downtown Delton al 10 p.m. on Jan. 16, but the driver fled. Hours later the vehicle was sitting on the roof of a Crooked Lake house. The residence sits just past a curve on Oak Drive that the driver appeared to have failed to negotiate. Instead, the vehicle went down a hill, in between trees, telephone poles and a street sign. It then landed on the roof of the residence that is set into the hill. Oak Drive dead ends into Crooked Lake a half mile past the curve. Further details about the crash and ensuing investigation have yet to be released, and. as of Thursday, the driver is still al large. Rebecca Pierce Editor Long-sought improvements inside Hastings’ historic Central Elementary build­ ing will hit the fast track in June, with a goal of completion by next fall. Phase 6 of the district’s 2015 bond project will pay for the $2-miIlion-plus interior revamp which includes asbestos abatement, and the installation of air conditioning, new carpet, luxury vinyl tile, and more. Superintendent Dan Remenap said al Monday’s school board meeting. •T his is really, really an exciting upgrade for Central Elementary." Remenap told the board of education. "Central Elementary is going to be outstanding.” After hearing an update, the board approved the project Monday. On Tuesday. Mike Schneiderhan, project manager and former Central Elementary prin­ cipal, told Die Banner that the major scope of the project is the installation of air condition­ ing in all of the classrooms. ’ -We’ve done some of the electrical updates to prepare for that,” said Schneiderhan. “We’ve done mechanical and electrical work in every classroom. We’re adding a boiler, too. Central got its heat from the middle school. Now, Central will have its own heal­ ing system since we’re updating the heating system as well. < “The third part of the project is replacing the floor covering, which is in really tough shape," Schneiderhan added. “The classrooms had carpeting over tile that was installed 12 years ago.” - . The atrium on the south end of the building is a distinctive architectural feature that can-, not be saved. Schneiderhan and Remenap confirmed. * “It’s falling off the building." Schneiderhan said. “We asked a number of engineers and See REVAMP, page 6 Baums receive ROTH award, multiple ovations Luke Froncheck Staff Writer When Larry and Earlcnc Baum took the stage during .Saturday’s Barry County Chamber of Commerce awards dinner, Urry who’s still recovering from a stroke, could only speak a few word.. “Hi" was his flnl, l() which the audience responded with a chorus of greetings. That was followed by Larry’s simple and heartfelt three words. “1 ..Zn talk.” ’ an 1 Although l^rry was unable to articulate a speech to portray his emotions, his tears and the thunderous applause from the captivated audience told the story of he and his wif« Earlenc’s true value to the Barry County corn munity. 3 The Baums were awarded the Chamber of Commerce’s ROTH award which rccogni/es outstanding business professionals in Biny County who exhibit the attributes of resi^v siveness to community issues; tlic creation of opportunities for others to succeed; a demon­ strated ability to leach, lead, and mentor, and the willingness to tout the merits of doinn business in Barry Barry County. "We both are so appreciative,” Earlcnc Baum said. “We really love this community and it’s really liurd for Uirry because he can’t 5% ।Larry or,,, Baum race a s|andi walked to the pod"'1" lo accep, „ rAlin tv chamber ova)jon du,jng the Barry County unamuo of Commerce awards dinner last Saturday, when he Rolh Awafd (Ph0|0 by I uko Froncheck) talk. Not being :>1,lc ..i,...' h;s « . I, GtficU I U,1 What S in IIIs heart, ivaltydul^ '• We j1)st ,h.,nk much. . ' Usl year’s RJ’' ^a,.l wi,Mark Kolanowski, whe - year > winne . • • wi(hoUl lhe Baums; lo r h. « Car Mu-eunt that didn’t ,,1CU,U; M Xl 120.«X’ nen v.si.ors a yXto «'e me award to this C'llled on the audience to SthO°l Chil dren having to explain to their kids that they can’t play sports due to their financial short­ comings. Kolanowski asked audience mem- See CHAMBER, page 2 �„ Page 2 — Thursday. Januaryoi 23.?n20 zuiru— Tho • Hastings v Banner CHAMBER, continued from page 1 ben. what their life would <* llkc ,f jiialys.s patient and had to travelout olthe Stnty three or four days a w“k.‘°X * itjatmenl. He asked them io imayne a listings without a place10 jf”.,,..shortfejjoy live music and where the • k lae was not being taken serious y. . ^•Imagine how many lives these; People hfcve touched in such meaning kplanowski said. “While the list t Upas is Jong and impressive, ou recent actions are most tC“One of the chief tenets we look.for H4 business leadership is the ability «>« Sher. Even after Larry suffered a.UoU= Snmner. Earlene and Larry continued to klemonstrate a ‘nothing will stop us atu u u Thev have taught us how to care for pthc’r and how to care for this " <:ood times and in bad. - no matter ho „ do not let obstacles stand in J State Representative Julie Calley al. larded the Baums with stale recognition for their actions in Barry County. . --2‘It‘s my honor that I bring thanks from the State of Michigan because your giving has inspired not just this region but thc„s£Vv Michigan for generations to come. Caney The award to the Baums came from the Chamber of Commerce, which said the acco­ lade was given for their “providing long term and sustainable benefits for our community in the area of business, healthcare, education, housing and culture." . Rob Rancs was the Master of Ceremonies for the annual event which brought in a record 250 people. For the first lime, the event was fidld at the new Bay Pointe Woods event Venue. J^Thc annual Athena and Young Athena awards were also handed out during the cere­ mony. The awards, which are part of an inter­ national leadership program, are geared fesard “the development, cultivation, and recognition of leadership that results in empowering women to achieve professional excellence and service to the community.’ jjThc 2019 winner of the Athena Young (Cbfessional awarded was Emily Welker of Spectrum Health Pennock. She received the tQard, according to presentation remarks, for .%cr approach to everything in her life with Mssion, character and integrity. She is a role Jubdel for other young women in her field. Riding by example and making a difference ifery day for the patients, providers and staff ftr’her offices." >frhc 2019 winner of the Athena Leadership Sward was Carol Svihl of Highpoint Community Bank, “for her tireless involve­ ment in community service including St. Rose Catholic Church, Algonquin I^ke Association. Spectrum Pennock Hospice and Barry County Rilay for Life. She is a strong supporter of the ads wiif\ her involvement with theThomapple Council. Thomapple Players. Thomapple Xmz Orchestra and Hastings Community IJJumc School." >Tm thrilled to accept this meaningful »$ard and to be placed in such high regard With women of Barry’ County who, when hearing their first name, we don’t have to ask their last," Svihl said during her acceptance speech. “There’s Bonnie. Lani, Norma. Nancy, and Kimberly just lo name a few and we all know who I’m speaking of." ’Svihl’s words were met with resounding applause. The Barry County Community Foundation Which, for the first time, was held A record 250 peop|e attended the annual Barry County Chamber of Commerce Awards dinner at the new Bay p0!nl woods event venue. Mark Kolanowski, the 2018 winner of the ROTH award, presented the 2019 award to Larry and Earlene Baum. also received recognition for its work through­ out Barry County with the bcstowmcnt of the annual Community Impact .Award. The acco­ lade recognizes individuals, service groups, businesses and non-profit organizations that go above and beyond in their service to Barry’ County. “It’s hard to point to an organization that has more positive impacts on Barry' County than this organization," award presenter Tammy Pennington said. “The impacts of this organization will be felt for decades." “1 would never ever... ever want to live anywhere but here," Foundation President Bonnie Gettys said. “It's not the amount of money. It’s not whether or not we give mil­ lions of dollars. It’s what we all do collective­ ly together that matters." Other nominees for the award included Delton Moose Lodge, Hastings Rotary, Pierce Cedar Creek Institute, and Thomapplc Credit Union. Other awards handed out Saturday evening included; The Chamber Champion Award which rec­ ognizes an individual who "goes above and beyond in support of the Barry County Chamber." The 2019 winner was Tai Gearhart for his efforts and support of the Chamber Open Golf Outing. Entrepreneur of die Year which recognizes individual business owners for lheir leader­ ship, vision, community support and entrepre­ neurial spirit. The 2019 winners were John &. Lindsey Vertalka of First Rehab & Sport Physical Therapy for “continuing to invest in Barry County opening a new location in Hastings and for their passion for what they do and desire to be engaged in the communi­ ty." Other nominees included; Phares & Lori Courtney - Court-Side Screen Printing & Embroidery, Robert & Sue Deming - Deming’s Auto Collision, Mike & Patty Powers - Bay Pointe Inn, Ken Trumble & Zach Sanlmier - Trumble Agcncj, and Carlos Zink - Barlow Florist. Member Choice for Customer Service John and Lindsey Vertalka received the Entrepreneur of the Year award for their investment in Barry County, the opening of a second location for their business, First Rehab & Sport Physical Therapy, in Hastings. As Larry and Earlene Baum were called to the stage they were surrounded by a crowd that provided them a standing ovation. - & The 2019 Young Athena honoree, Emily Welker (left), stands beside last year’s winner Morgan Johnson. SATURDAY, JANUARY 25” • 9 AM-12 NOON Cash & Carry Tlie 2019 Athena Leadership Award was presented to Caro! Svihl who is pic­ tured with Master of Ceremonies Rob Ranes. 50-lb. Cube SALT Tax 1-800-852-3098 269-945-5102 141 E. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings better water, pure and simple." OPEN DAILY 8-5, SAT. 9-12 Denker Family Owned & Operated Rick Denker, Owner Excellence which recognize* excellent cus­ tomer service nominated and voted on by chamber membership phe 2019 winner was Court-Side Embroidering & Screen Printing for “turning out a g^at product quickly and working hard to mce(\uslonier's needs and deadlines." Other nominees included; Barlow Florist, Barry County UniM Way. B:‘> 10 Ba>’ Budding Concepts, Broadmoor Motors Hastings, Commercial Hank, Deming’s Auto Collision Services |n Diamond Dazzle Cleaning, Greenridcc Bcal,y of Hastings. Hastings l^iiy DtfnU,1> J’A,d (rtapliKs. Stale S„c piner. Thornapple < redit Union, and Ym/a of Barry County. Uriel; Award; ■ ^ynizes capital investment ni jj demonstrating vision, commitment' J di'atid stability lor our community, bud,*' jim.tte ami future success. I he 2019 „cre Hexfab for m upgraded fWc . ^^..ovateibmoderninf* facilities ai uK. ** ,1.^1 in Hastings and Hay Pointe ’«"’l ncw large-scale I ’,iru"o,'"nws „?.* ,,d; Delton M«>* 1 odge. Hasting, j,. fuJ j|y Medicine. In addition to the ROTH award, Larry and Earlenn ~ State of Michigan recognition for their generosity to Barry County a'S° presented with I NEWS BRIEFS continued from front page Women’s Giving Circle to meet Feb. 5 rhe Women’s Giving Circle ot B County will meet Wednesday. Feb 5 u »i First Presbyterian Church of H.istin-’, M-37. north of Hastings. 405 The group meets quarterly to Icani abo... the work of local nonprofit onrmiz-.r* Members vole to direct th?ir '°ns donations of $50 each ($30 fw ti,. Vellv<-" 30) to a local organization. Menib?r' p.?"?c' their own dinners, and al each n>eetinE u," ' hear updates from a previous recini y ! learn more about another. nl and The Feb 5 ' dinner. IT ."r Un^ 'V,!l begin al 6 PnL Tripp, repn»< irM N^-'akcr be Lauren '•“•Hlof the r ■'>>• 1 Diabetes She will tell II?11" *ornn'unity Foundation, lhe November rn h°w donations from munity, 1 he <.. ce.,n£ W’B benefit the com ’wniativeol SaWlL kK’abe.r a Center. ‘irbor Children’s Reujurcc 1x1 received by Wednesday0 Ni">Goodineean‘i ' ~9, v,a email Wl-0325 iil.^XO,n w calling 616iutereded IT'"'0" W,U ^>^led to Giving Circle11.? ‘ 1 join ‘hC *n Jny mne. ------- �CYBERSECURITY, continued from page 1 Hastings High Scno°l graduate Noah Former is the son of Robert Former, who is responsible for the computer donation to the school district. Hastings High School senior Matthew Sweeney, who hopes to go into computer programming after graduation, holds a blade server that is part of the Hewlett Packard Enterprise super computer donated to the school. independent of the district’s computer system. With the board’s approval Monday, the school can “flip the switch this fall” when the curric­ ulum will be open to student selection. These cybersecurity courses are about three years in the making, Matthew Goebel, assis­ tant superintendent of student achievement, said. "We did a lot of research. Annually, 40,000 jobs go unfilled in the U.S. We’re really excited to offer this.” Those schools with computer programs have nowhere near the server capacity that Hastings has because of Former’s generous donation, the superintendent said.The Hewlett Packard Enterprise computer is far more advanced than anything the school could afford. “It has ‘blades* and each of these individual blades arc tlicir own server,” said Carl. "Each of these units, brand new, would cost $100,000 a piece.” "There arc 16 servers in that cube," he said, pointing to a large rack in the high school server room. Other donations from the community are i helping to support the program as well, Carl said, expressing gratitude for the grant from ’ the Barry County Community Foundation’s Wilson H. Craig Memorial Fund. Given the swiftness of technological change, the program will need to constantly grow and develop. “Two years ago, I went to a ’train the train­ outers and set up network all on their own," he said. ‘‘S,u ‘'n.ls 'vill try to attack each other. If they *n, they will need lo figure out how to ’hem out and secure them again. “Unfortunately, to leam how to protect things, you have to know how to break things." Several of his students, quietly standing by and listening to his remarks, smiled. ‘ Carl just said. “Save the world." Then he smiled, too. er’ program," Carl said, "and things have changed already since then." Carl came from the business sector and has experience in finance, working for Felpausch Food Centers. Tim Kietzman, who will be working with Carl, is a paraprofessional with a degree in accounting and has worked in technology for more than 15 years. Despite the changes in the industry, the HP computer will be useful for many years, Carl said. And. years down the road, even if it’s not the most current, they can still leam from it. “Basically, we’re setting our students up to work in technology," he said. "We can actu­ ally give them certificates; they can leave high school and gel a six-figure job." The course is designed for students who arc serious about computer and information sys­ tems security/information assurance. Classes cover principles of information security, per­ sonal skills and ethics, network management and design, law and regulations, teamwork and leadership, career-ready practices, com­ puter hardware and software tools, strategic infrastructure, perimeter defense, computer forensics, safety and operational procedures. It is a “hands-on class” and much of the work is. expected to be completed inde­ pendently, he added. Carl clearly has high expectations for his students. “I want them to be able to set up the comDigital illustration by Metro Creative Graphics Schools prepare shift to whole child’ reporting Thy lor Owens Staff Writer A new initiative from the Michigan Department of Education will likely change the landscape of education for years to come, by focusing on the ’whole child.* “What they mean by the ‘whole child’ is that schools now must look at emotional, mental, physical and academic well- being,” Maple Valley Data Coordinator Jeff Byme said. “It will be a whole new- way of looking at things." Comparing it to previous education over­ hauls like No Child Left Behind, Byrne said the Michigan Integrated Continuous Improvement Plan will likely be in place for at least 15 years. The plan is being piloted in specific schools starting this month, and will be gradually rolled out until it becomes standard at the end of the 2020-2021 school year. Instead of the annual reporting system schools currently use, which focuses largely on academics. MICIP will be a continuous process with 10 separate categories to put focus on whole child wellness. These will cover aspects such as employee wellness, community involvement, health, physical activity, nutrition, environment and social, emotional and psychological climate and ser­ vices. . , . e “That’s going to change the landscape of education," Maple Valley Superintendent Katherine Bertolini said. "It’s vitally important. Hastings Area School System Superintendent Dan Remenap said. “’Hie state is taking a good step. "I think the shift is much needed, Lake wood Public Schools Assistant Superintendent Jay Lamer agreed "For the Sxrade or longer, there has been such a high focus on overall^^^Xarui in>" 3 serious need of focus on social and emotional p s right now, iLs ••With inenul l>e^ whole<hild dcvclimperarivc that we looK opnient," Remenap s socially, emotionIf siudenls-ue ^Sa.on say they ally, and psycho "P" £ic,. WiXPoi--r kid^nced mental beahh sup- port," Delton Kellogg Schools Superintendent Kyle Corlett said. When students are struggling with their emotions, they tend to have act out in class, which requires their teacher’s attention and takes away from instructional time for the rest of the students as well. “Our teachers are not counselors," Corlett said. Delton Kellogg, like other schools in Barry County, partners with organizations like Barry County Community Mental Health and Spiritual Care Consultants to provide counsel­ ing for students and training for teachers on how to deal with behavioral issues. But administrators say they didn’t need a mandate from the state to pay attention to mental health, or other areas such as nutrition and community involvement. Barry’ County superintendents say they’ve been taking the whole-child approach for years. "In all of my work in education, the most rewarding places I’ve taught have had a whole-child focus,” Bertolini said. “I think, when we teach and leam, we’re not just deal­ ing with a cognitive brain in isolation, we’re dealing with a heart, and nutrition, and sleep and we’re dealing with how secure the kids feel about themselves in relation to their peer group. “I don’t see it being a huge shift in how we do things," Remenap said. “It’s already pan of our belief system." Hastings school initiatives, such as multi­ tiered systems of support and extending recess lime, have been geared toward meetinn whole-child needs. nfi While the MDE is currently training and educating staff on the new system, there are still a number of unanswered questions for educators. The slate Legislature has not informed school officials about how much they plan to allocate toward meeting the new mandate Some superintendents wonder about the limeline of the rollout, and whether it will meet the stale’s goals. “A lot of the lime, the slate will conic up with something, and delay it several vcox " Corlett said. 7 ’ “School districts sink or swim based on decisions made locally, not mandates from the Male, in my opinion," Remenap said. Regardless of what the new system looks like, or when it will be implemented locally, educators plan on continuing to focus on lhe whole-child approach. "I just think it’s good practice,’’ Bertolini said. " We’re not doing this because it’s a mandated thing, we’re doing this because its the best thing for our kids." 7“ Students say ‘Thanks’ to school board Students from Central Elementary and Hastings Middle schools made a special effort to thank Hastings Area School System Board of Education members for their service to the school district during the board meeting Monday night at Southeastern Elementary School. Specia|| desjanecj placards and handmade gifts were provided for each board member. Pictured (front, from loft) Riley Furrow, benjamin Furrow (standing behind her), Jonah Hamp, Joey Furrow, Ailey Hamp and Taylm Wierenga. Schqcd board members are (from je vpalton Valerie Slaughter, Jennifer Eastman, President Luke Haywood, Mike Nickels, Lou* Wierenga Jr. and Robert Pohl. (Photo by Sarah Geukes) >- �Page 4 — Thutsday. January 23. 202° Did you The Hastings Banner see Cover girl *. Delton 6th grader, Maggie Mar^ fields up the Hastings Rem Indie Story that featured her last Saturday January 18. Martin, who * set to take ’ the stage as Matilda at the Gran^aP^ Civic Theatre in late Februa^'andearly ^>tonb'£ <*on -s Matilda! takes Can newspapers - antf communities ■■ survive. As a lifelong proponent of a newspaper’s value in building awareness and citizen involvement, I’d never encountered the view that maybe a good newspaper is why sometimes there doesn’t seem to be much engagement in community life. March, was featured by the explore her deep interest in t •Stage and the numerous achievements -^ie 11-year-old has already a I didn ‘t go to the meeting last night because you said in your story that you d be there,” responded one guy at the local coffee shop when I asked about why there weren't more people at the public hearing held on a Saturday morning in Yankee Springs Township to discuss a nearly 5/ million renovation and expansion of the township hall. T had things to do, so I figured I’d read what you wrote in the paper and decide if I needed to be mad or not.” "plished. k you remewn tert! : Jaycees honor citizens Banner Jan. 28, 1965 Distinguished citizens - Members of the Hastings Jaycees honored two young men with the club's annual awards. Duward Cane, 511 W. Walnut, (second from left) assistant traffic man­ ager of the Hastings Manufacturing •Company and chairman of the recent • Hastings Community Chest drive, was • presented the Distinguished Service • Award. Arnold Lawrence, Route 1 Hickory Comers, (second from right) .’was named Barry County’s Outstanding i Young Farmer. Lawrence is president of • the Barry County Dairy Herd ’ Improvement Association and works -400 acres of land. Others in the photo , are Stanley Foltz (left). 922 N Michigan, and Gordon Fuhr, 429 Congress St.. ’ chairman of the selection committee. Have you m® . Paul Ballinger’s life has revolved around a ’microphone. ( Ballinger is the youngest of four children bom to Edward and Gale (Purse!) Ballinger .on lhe family dairy farm in Schoolcraft. .Because his father died when Ballinger was 3 Vi, he has very few memories of his dad. Being by far the youngest of four children also makes for an interesting sei of sibling recollections. Ballinger. 61, says he “never lived under the same roof* with his oldest brother. Richard, now 80. of Kalamazoo and only lived under the same roof for about six ' months with his other brother, Jerry, now 78, of Schoolcraft. 'Hie boys’ sister, Marcia Sackett, 72, now lives in Kalamazoo. After Ballinger's mother married Verlon Huff, a longtime General Motors employee from Saginaw, he and his mother moved to Saginaw for about a year until Huff retired find lhe family returned to Schoolcraft. Ballinger graduated from Schoolcraft High School in 1976. ' Ballinger knew he wanted to go into broadcasting and had set his sights on Kalamazoo Valley Community College, which he sajs had a wonderful broadcasting department. "And then budget cuts killed it.” he says of the reductions KVCC was forced to make during Ballinger’s senior year of high school. Still, he followed his plans, with some modifications. “I had to create my own curriculum ... I 'just had to take English and some drama and speech, but it didn’t come to anything,” he recalls, “until Ken Radant, at the radio station here in town fWBCHj, gave me a •hot to live my childhood dream, and I came to work 13 years in radio in Hastings.” Bullinger moved to Hastings in 1981, becoming a DJ and lhe play-by-play announcer for sports broadcasts. Having been involved in lhe Hastings Jay cecs, Ballinger went on to be the Michigan Jaycees executive director from 1994 to 2003. planning many functions throughout the state of Michigan. He spent a short time in lhe shipping -business us owner of Sunshine Pack & Ship, during which time he began expanding 'opportunities his vocal talents could provide. Since then. Ballinger has used his vocal talents as announcer, volunteer voice talent add emcee. He has Ix’en (he voice of the •Ifastings Marching Band Invitational since .2003. He also takes the microphone for sorry. ii v. as a stupid mistake.’’’ For his love of entertainment, his vocal contributions to the community and the fair treatment he tries to gi\e to everyone he meets. Paul Ballinger i< this week’s Banner Bright Light. Paul Ballinger events such as the Hastings Jazz Leslis al. the Cops vs. Cadets basketball game. National Night Out, and lhe Thomapple Valley Church Fall Carnival. His voice can be heard on recorded messages for the Barry County Courthouse, Thomapple Valley Church and the Hastings Performing Arts Center. He Jso has emceed events such as the Jaycees (now known as JCI) national convention. Paul met his wife Lora Gainder al a church event in 2004 and they were married Nov. 12, 2005. She is a registered nurse at Spectrum Health Pennock and works in the surgery department there. In 2005, the microphone took Ballinger nt an entirely different direction. "Ihere was an opening at the sheriff s department. 1 decided to tal e a shot at it, and here 1 am. 15 years later,” says Ballinger, now deputy clerk and Law Enforcement Information Network Terminal Agent Coordinator who operates behind the one way glass just beyond the lobby. I nlike previous jobs where he saw- lew people Irani his seal in a booth, he sees a sanely of individuals serving penalties. some mare often than others. But that dtxsn’l affect his view irum what’s known as “the bubble.” ’ 1 try to treat them the way I would want to he treated if I made a mistake.” Ballinger J>ays. "And most of them will tell you. I ni ir First job: A grocery stocker at Harding’s Market in Schoolcraft. I was 16 years old. Favorite dinner: Why does pizza pop into my head? My favorite pizza is Godfather’s Pizza in Kalamazoo. Their Classic Combo pizza is my favorite. Favorite cartoon character: Wile E. Coyote. Biggest challenge: I call it an adventure challenge. Three or four years ago I decided to challenge myself h> rjde my bicycle from Kalamazoo to South Haven’ on the KalHuven Trail dragging one of those little kid carts packed with camping gear. I rode 36 miles to a place in South Haven, camped overnight and rode back the next day. That was done to physically, rxjrsonally challenge my sell. ’ If I could change one thing: 1 would like to have been a better student in high school, but didn’t have the f<KlIS 1 was having too much fun being in q,.. bllK| and being the class clown and i|k $choolcrufi Eagles muscot. Something about m n„)St people ‘l,>n ‘ Know: I have a (,f about 40 or 50 photos of i»j sell mascots. Like Spartv.eveti though ।; 1 Michigan fan.and the (hand Rapid, (i,il|in al,d ones like that. Person I m(lsl iK|ltli ’ \lv wife. 1 want to .'■row up to be lilc k( '’ .emits and 1 don’t deserve Iter. Hot tl I could i,..' citing and as "n-l.-!.;ndin? and .|,e >,? Yeah, list iuientl()n(.u - . ’ ndctophone. II1 could go anvnC j,, the world: It I ^.cjust ^idifctogob; . IkMathh* end ow IHilh \ th, SOHhOfie •. T !,i‘ K. U i'.i," • mill I:, ■„ ... . ....... ’..... the importance of shopping locally. Webbies value what they call being "sticky.” keeping a viewer onscreen for more than a few seconds. A ^Pa^’h^ the other hand, “slicks an,und.theJC’tf™" table, in the living room, or on the bedroom nightstand for a week - until a new one comes to the front porch or mailbox. Regular readers have certainly noticed the declining number of pages in our publi­ cations due to the loss of regular advertis­ ing. Many of these advertisers, like us. find themselves having to compete with online companies focused on taking away their customers. We believe in newspapering, and have one of lhe best reputations in the slate for producing high quality informative publications that carry highly visible and responsive advertising. There’s a great deal of discussion in our industry about whether wc should continue to offer print publications or move lo an online product. But after hundreds of large corporate newspaper groups have shut down their print products and moved most­ ly online, their success has been minimal. It’s been the small-town, market-focused community newspapers that have main­ tained their market share and readership. But it lakes local advertisers who are will­ ing to join in our mission to provide a strong and (rusted product for lhe good of the community. Wc continue to invest in journalism by printing people’s stories, protecting the public and reporting on what’s vital to our community. Due to the fact that most of our papers are delivered free to your home, we have to rely on local advertisers to keep them going. To survive we have to find new sources of revenue and work harder lo pro­ tect lhe businesses who serve and care so much about our communities. Think about it, what happens when a community loses its newspaper? Who will write stories about what’s going on in the community - both good and bad while promoting local busi­ nesses and reminding readers how import­ ant it is to shop local? As we begin a New Year I’m reminded of what Thomas Jefferson had to say about newspapers over 200 years ago, “Were it left to me to decide if we should have a government without newspapers, or news­ papers without a government,” said Jefferson, “I should not hesitate for a moment to prefer lhe latter.” I hope that local advertisers - and loyal shoppers and readers - side with Jefferson. Here’s your chance to lake part in an inter­ active public opinion poll. Vote on the ques­ tion posed each week by accessing our w eb­ site, www.HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported along with a new question lhe following week. An executive order requires a county’s consent before allowing the placement of unaccompanied refugee minors with licensed foster families in that community. Should Barry County accept unaccompanied child refugees? ../•) u person »‘/n» know Bailor, yU 4W5H; or Yes 100% No 0% Fred Jacobs, CEO J-Ad Graphics, Inc. think? Last week; ,•/ v’.-re’' - l':'1 ' found in lhe 55 to 64 age w«dinchrtS^ .. Surt on time, n.rtr . What do you print is verify that local towns across the buys I(> newspapers are sttl e of their solid promote business to our latest readership base. Graphics has mainindependent atid' JP penetration mined an average of 96 per £ in the market w.th -papers t0 readers who mdicat«th y And make product ;,n‘1^ of a|| ages from ^r^rXi^m highest^umbers ................ ' ,,r'1)d ■ Amidst the steady, ominous drumbeat of community newspapers fading away in an online digital information world, I wonder how people will decide what to be mad at or, for that matter, who to be proud of. who to be inspired by. or who to be grateful for it they have no local community newspaper. It s a threat that should concern all of us because newspapers and local journalism are focused on protecting readers by hold­ ing institutions, CEOs and even our neigh­ bors accountable for their actions. lhats especially true today because, though we have an abundance of informa­ tion. so much of it is poor in quality due to unverified sources and questionable infor­ mation. For the price of an iPhone, anyone can be a publisher. The local newspaper, though, is staffed by skilled journalists ded­ icated to the facts, writing, editing, and fact-checking copy, working hard lo be sure readers are getting information from a trust­ ed source. In today's digital age, the information the local newspaper provides matters more than ever. As the unofficial record keepers of history, we’re responsible for gathering and documenting everything that goes on in lhe community from local meetings, happen­ ings. people and high school sports. Check under one of the refrigerator magnets some­ time. Chances arc you'll find a story writ­ ten alxjut or a photo taken of someone you know, maybe your children or grandchil­ dren. Only a local newspaper can provide (hat. 'Hie dramatic changes being exerted by the powerful sources of digital information, online shopping and large corporations encroaching on small business is threaten­ ing not only the livelihood of community newspapers but is menacing communities themselves. Granted, the venerated busi­ ness model of advertisers supporting local newspapers is under attack from online retailers and large corporations. Equally disturbing to me. though, is that these enti­ ties arc outsiders - they have little or no interest in lhe local community and what provides quality living. I'm constantly standing up for our J-Ad newspaper publications because I know how important they are to the community in keeping readers informed about what's real­ ly going on and encouraging readers to shop and support their local businesses. Late last week, one of my salesmen informed me that one of his best customers was reducing the size of lhe company’s weekly advertisement so more money could be directed to online advertising. Another salesperson reported that one of his custom­ ers recently hired a new sales manager who states he doesn't use “traditional media.” Apparently, neither of these businesses value their local marketplace or the people loyal to their community who live within driving distance and who rely on their local newspaper for information about what the businesses have to offer. iz.rtiscrs who may feci that For those advert is Stalistics in small For this week: The Barry County Board of Commissioners hosted a communily forum on Wednesday Jan 22 at Thornapple Valley Church to discuss a potential millage election o address whether to fix or replace the jail and Commission on Aging buildings. Did you attend the forum? □ Yes □ No �Thy Hastings Banno* —- Thursday, January 23, 2020 - - Page 5 County clerk preparing for state’s presidential primary Justice is in Constitution, not party preference To the editor: Article I. Section 3, Clause 6 of the United States Constitution states; ‘The Scni,. ’ have the sole Power to try all W When sitting fur that Putpose the^slnllhi"*** IlKvLnited Mates ts tried, the Chief Justice shall pmstde: And no Person shall lx- convict cd without lhe Concurrence of two thirds of the Members present.” The oath was originally adopted by the Senate before proceedings in the impeach­ ment of Sen. Blount in I798. has remained lately unchanged since, and reads: I solemnly swear (or affirm, as the case may be) that in all things appertaining to the Inal of the impeachment of _ now pending, I will do impartial “justice.’ according to the ( onstitution and laws: So help me God.” No one can decide impartial justice without all of the facts, fo determine the facts, the Senate will need to obtain testimony from as many of the people involved as possible and examine all of the relevant documents. Criticisms that the House Democrats did a poor job in their investigation or that they missed their chance to examine witnesses or get documents do not alter the Constitutional charge to the Senate to conduct a real trial. You may not lx- sympathetic to the charge that the House couldn’t do this because the presi­ dent banned all of his people from testifying before the House or producing subpoenaed documents for the House, although that was the case. But even so, it is no longer sustainable to say President Trump was justified in refusing to cooperate al all with the Democratic major­ ity in the House because they were his politi­ cal opponents. The impeachment trial will be in the Senate where Trump has a Republican majority. The Senators arc still obliged to fulfill the oath that they will swear “to do impartial justice.” Hie fact that Democrats in the House may nut like the president did make him guilty in their eyes. The fact that Republicans in the Senate favor the president will not make him innocent. Only a real trial with testimony from the people involved in the activities that led to the impeachment charges against the president and examination of the documents that pertain to those activities can stand a chance of demonstrating innocence of guilt. Dr. Kenneth M. Komheiser, Prairieville Township (Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: •All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor's discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. ‘ • Letters serving the function of ‘cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire" letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. (( Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing. Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley. Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov U.S. mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County). 114 Cannon House Office Building, Washington. D.C. 20515-2203. phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503 phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washinoton D C 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Gary Peters, Democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington D C 20510 2202, phone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room 720, 110 Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 233­ 9150. President's comment line: J-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Banner Denoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 f'ub'.fhed b/ Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J An Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone; (269) 945-9554 • Fax; (269) 945-5192 News andP'^ Boases: news^-adgr^cscon, -Advening: ads&j.adg^phics Frederic Jacobs Publ.slW & ’ ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • CF.O Hank Schuuring CFO Scott Ommen TtJ~ , Mike Gi'more fJy G'eenfiekf Jfinnh v < u,r,s German ____ _______ Yonker Subscription Rates: $45 per vc-.r in n .NEWSROOM■ fiebecca (hi '-"1 Krt,efM'br<Ca,>y£d'u'' Bre it Bremer (Shorts La"1'1 555 per year olsewhwo POSTMASTHi . County ^te on refu£ee resettlement was wf0S1S To the editor . ,. What a sad day lS!°ry for Hastings, Mich.. Barry c'l,u'!!L<.d . , Refugees arc alk the vote of the board oT mtthc Jan* 14 nlcel’ inc When v. ill ter^nsni hlt ()ur town? How ;^g More W dif? It’s time to repl*? *>’ last one of them. They have disrega^ our people and only looked at it from d»c ‘^c> side. They don’t care about their ownmuch for one of the best small towns in •' menca. The next time, we will be a saiictuaO c'bEldcn Shellcnbarger, Hastings Is health department top-heavy? To the editor: After reading the Letters to the Editor. I could not believe h°w much Barry County taxpayers arc paying our health department for their services. Ionia County has a popula­ tion of 6-1291, and they are paying 93 cents per person. Barry County has a population of 60,586 and we are paying 47.39 per person. I talked to several residents in Ionia and they are happy with the service they get from their health department. This makes me think that Barry-Eaton health department is top heavy on staff. I think our commissioners should take a serious look at having our own health department sooner rather than later. If they don’t, they will Ik spending SI million on gas millage in the next 10 years. Tins is not being very accountable with our tax dollars. Jerry Greenfield. Hastings Tern limits needed now To the editor: The American people had better wake up. We desperately need term limits, and fast. Impeachment or not. Washington is out of control. . First, we need to get the top five of each party out of office, then maybe lhe others will wake up. Fifteen states have term limits, the rest need them also. Democratic impeachment was one-sided and unfair. Now. they want to run the trial. The Republican party will try to do the same, so it could be one-sided and unfair. The states can get term limits if they want. Tom Burghdoff. Woodland Factory farms need scrutiny To the editor: I was devastated to leam about yet another factory poultry farm fire that killed 300,000 egg laying hens in Otsego on Jan. 9. In May 2019, another fire in Ionia County killed 250,000 hens. Numerous fire departments worked for hours to extinguish the flames. It is disheartening to have these tragic events occur in neighboring counties. The Ionia County location has had several fires over the years, with one occurring only lhe year before, in 2018. The most recent one still did not have firf'^ppression equipment. In Otsego, one oft H: two bams and much of the facility was sa'^« prompting a compa­ ny spokesman to say- It s a very good result, given how serious l,e fire was.” Obviously, he has overlooked the facl lhj|( 3(X) (XX) more than hall ot ♦* of his hens — were trapped in a burnM structure and did not survive. What is happen11^ 'ere? Is the industry l*»,l8 negligent or arc regu­ lations simply not tx g properly enforced? For instance, a ry farm in Martin had several violations m *as still receiving fed­ eral subsidies. Even these are not enough. Why isn t poultry . •>’ protected and not just an insurance * u,Lmul why isn’t fire suppression equip01 Mandatory ?" One thing is d'8'.. "A large-scale fonn of fanning is not *> "C, especially for the chickens. Hl 4^.0|M Taylor Owens Greg Chandler .HHau-g. Ui4X5i> Karen Morgan Hastings To cast a ballot in the presidential primary, people must vote a straight party ticket unless they choose to vote only on the county’s millage renewal proposition. Rebecca Pierce Editor 'Hie ballots for lhe March 10 presidential primary election arrived al the Barry' County Clerk’s office Tuesday. Any county resident can walk into a polling place on March 10. lhe day of lhe primary, and cast his or her ballot - even if they haven’t registered to vote prior lo that day. Clerk Pamela Palmer said. If residents want to vote strictly on lhe county’s 911 millage renewal, they can request a ballot just for that. The 911 millage renewal request is for 0.9672 mill ($.9672 on each $1,0()0 of taxable value) upon all taxable real and personal property in lhe county for five years, 2020 through 2024. The levy would provide $2.17 million in revenue, with $2.13 million disbursed by the county to the Central Dispatch Authority and $36,910 disbursed to the Hastings DDA and LFDA and the village of Middleville DDA. The $36,910 is levied a predefined area of the city of Hastings and the village of Middleville. The estimate is that county prop­ erty with a taxable value of $50,000 would be assessed $4836 in the first calendar year of the levy. If people want to vole in lhe presidential candidate, they will need to pick a party. Some people who are diehard Republicans may opt for the Democratic ballot so they can try to choose the candidate their choice would face in the November election, Palmer said, adding. “That has been known to happen." The partisan ballot for the primary shows a total of 19 candidates; 15 Democrats (Pete Buttigieg, Julian Castro, John Delaney, Tulsi Gabbard. Amy Klobuchar, Bernie Sanders, Barry County Clerk Pamela Palmer; opens the first box of ballots for the March; 10 presidential primary. The ballots wefe‘ received by her office Tuesday. (Photps by Rebecca Pierce) .’ ; Joe Sestak, Tom Steyer. Elizabeth Warren.’ Marianne Williamson. Andrew Yang. Michael; Bennet, Joe Biden. Michael R. Bloomberg; and Cory Booker) and four Republicans (Mark Sanford. Donald J. Trump. Joe Walsh, and Bill Weld). • Delton Kellogg Foundation : offering 45 Scholarships for 2020 The Delton Kellogg Education Foundation has announced that it will be awarding $3,000 in classroom grants and $53,100 in scholar­ ships for the 2020 scholarship season lo sup­ port district students and teachers. The DKEF has been investing in the suc­ cess of the Delton Kellogg students since 2014 and will be taking applications for this year’s round of awards until March 1. The DKEF’s assistance helps provide a variety of support to the Delton Kellogg school district and, in turn, ensures future growth and stabil­ ity within lhe community for district resi­ dents. DKEF’s portfolio of scholarships includes 20 individual SI.000 scholarships as well as lhe George and Doris Leonard Scholarship. Funding for lhe George and Doris Leonard Scholarship is provided by lhe couple s e^tauv This year, DKEF is excited to offer six - -• .scholarships from this fund to graduating seniors and graduates of the Delton Kellogg, School District. . ’ More and more focus is being placed on non-tradilional/adult students, those indiviJu-’ als who have already graduated from high' school. Through the DKEF’s affiliation with the Barry' Community Foundation, graduates of Delton Kellogg schools, also have access to 25 non-traditional scholarships. . Students interested in a scholarship can' apply online at http:A;www.barnrcf.org/schblarship/. Descriptions ot each scholarship arc* also outlined on the w ebsite. Because students can apply lor up lo 10 different scholarships, they are encouraged to review each scholar­ ship and apply to those that bust fit their qual­ ifications. Students requiring assistance with the scholarship process can contact Annie Halle, the scholarship administrator. at the Barry Community Foundation at annic& barrycf.org or by calling 269-945-0526. Water ’s Edge Financial LLC Jeffrey A. Keessen, AIFH (269) 948-9969 525 W. Apple St. Hastings, Ml 49058 www.watcrsedRcnnunclaI.coni Taking care of what's important ti» van so that \ou canfo< u\ on what matters most to you �Rutland man files complaint Hastinnr, Banner Worship Together against commissioners ...at the church ofyour choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (H?A) 328 N. JefTcoon Street. Worship 10 «"'• Nutserj’ provided. Pastor .• Adams, contact 616-690­ 8609. HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1674 S. State Rd.. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone 269-945­ 2285. Sunday morning service time: 10 a.m. with nursery and preschool available. FREEPORT BAPTIST CHURCH 380 County Einc Rd.. Freeport. MI 49325. (269) 760-1928. Pastor Ron. A traditional style ot worship, no gimmicks, and friendly people welcome you to worship at "an old country church.’’ Sunday School 9.45 a.m Sunday Worship H a.m. Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study and Prayer 7p.m. Give ui the pleasure of meeting you! LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E State Rd.. P.O. Box 273. Hastings, Ml 49058. Pastor Scon Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: wvvw.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway. Nashville. Mi 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe. (517) 852­ 1783. Sunday service 10am. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children's ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. HASTINGS HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 2920 S. M-37 Hwy. (M-37 at M-79) Pastor Kim Metzcr. Phone 269-945-4995. hastingshopeumc.org hastingshopeumcf't gmail. com. IVe welcome YOU to join its on Sunday Mornings at 10:30 for worship! Find Us On Facebook! hastingshopeumc. PLEASANTVIEW FAMH.Y CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road. Dowling. MI 49050. Pastor. Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; SundayEvening Service 6 p.m ; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. MCCALLUM UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH 5505 Otis Lake Rd.. Delton. MI 49046. Phone: 269-623­ 8226. New pastor - Jerald Jones. Sunday Service: 10:31-11:46; Coffee Connection. Nursery, Children’s ministry. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIA INDEPENDENT’ ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy­ Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10:30 a m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-795­ 2370 and the rectory number is 269 948 9327. Our church websjte is www.samchurch. org Wc are part of lhe Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd.. P.O. Box 765, (comer of Milo Rd. &S. M-43), Delton. Ml 49046 Pastor Roger Claypool. (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 lo 11:30am. Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 to 7:30 pm. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES r\ Spirit-filled church. Meeting al lhe Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise &. Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.: Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.’’ For information call 616-731-5194. GREEN STREET UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green St, Hastings. MI 49058. Rev. Bry ce Feighncr Office Phone: 269­ 945.9574. Email: office. greenslreetumc<& gmail.com. Sunday, Schedule - The Praise 9:30 a.m. ; The Word 10 a.m.: The Table 10:30 a.m. Nursery Care is available through age 4; PreK-8th grade Sunday School 10 a.m.; Sunday School for Adults at 11 am. Upright Revolt Youth Ministry (6th-12th grades) 5:30-7:30 p.m. FREE Community Meal every Tuesday at 5 p.m. Refer to Facebook for weather conditions. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Matt Moser. laiad Pastor. Sunday Sendees: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m ; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30-8 p.m., AWANA (Children Kindcrgarten-5lh Grade). 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 9488(X)4 for information on MITF (Mothers in Training Together), Sports Ministries. Quilting, Ladies Bible Study. WELCOME CORNERS UNIT ED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9-45 a.m. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel­ chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF HASTINGS Sharing Jesus with our community & lhe world! 405 N. M-37 Hwy., Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. www.firstchurchhastings. org. 9 a.m. Classes and Gatherings for All ages: 9:45 a.m. Worship (Children’s Worship Offered); 10:45 a.m. Coffee Fellowship: 11:15 a.m. Coffee Talk with Pastor Dan. Follow us on Facebook. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main. Woodland. MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Kathy Smith. Sunday Worship 9:15 am COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand St.. Hastings. Pastor Ken Hale. Sunday School for adults and children 9:45 a.m.; Sunday Sen ice 11 a.m. Nursery provided. Call 269-945-9217. ebehastings. org. We are a small church, but we sene a mighty Lord. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH ".An Expression Of Who jesus Is To The World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy.. P.O. Box 8, Hastings. Telephone 269­ 945-9121. Email hastfineft gmail.com. Website: www h.istinesfreemethodist.com Pastor Brian Teed. Student Ministries Director, Emma Miller. Wor­ ship Director. Martha Sloetzel. Sundays: Nursery and tod­ dler (birth through ace 3) care provided. SUNDAY\mORNING FAMILY HOUR WEL­ COMES ALL AGES AND STAGES OF LIFE AT 9:30 aan. Deep Blue. Loving God. Loving Neighbor: Preschool age 3-5th Grade. Live: 6th-12th Grade. Adult Standard and Adult Elective classes. Coffee Talk: Fellowship Hall. Cookies at 10.05 a.m. Worship Service: 10: 30 a.m. & Children's Church age 4-4th grade dis­ missed during senice. Youth Group at 6 p.m. 2nd TuesdayYoung Women's Small Group, 6 p.m. Wednesday: Women’s Bible Study 6:30-7:30 p.fn. KID S CLUB: Feb. 5th-March 18th, 6:30-7:45 p.m. Thurs­ day: Adult Bible Study 10 a.m. For more information please contact the church or follow u$ on face book. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God 's Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Jan. 19 Worship services at 8 a.m. and 10.45 a.m. Nursery available. Jan. 21 - Women of Faith 1:30 p.m.; Council 6 pm. Jan. 25 - Movie Night 6:30 p.m. Pastor Ken Sclicck B. pastorkenil grace-hustings, org. Location: 239 E. North St.. Hastings. 269-945-9414 or 945-2645. fax 269-945-2698. 'vww.grace-hastings.org Facebook: Grace Lutheran 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 1699W.M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 Leaf did not mention lhe complaint to Conner, however. She said Tuesday night that she was unaware a formal complaint had been made. During the board’s Jan. 14 session, Conner had been running the meeting in the absence of Chairwoman Heather Wing, who was sick. Ibbotson was among about a dozen people in lhe audience who spoke during that meet­ ing. Many of them, including Ibbotson. were commenting on the refugee resettlement issue. “I only asked him to follow our protocol. I have every confidence that I followed the Open Meetings Act and that I followed the protocol used by the three chairpersons before me." Vivian Conner, County Board Vice Chair Ibbotson was one of few in the audience who commented more (han once during the meeting. He spoke during both periods allowed for public comment, which occur at the beginning and lhe end of the meeting. “I only asked him to follow our protocol.” Conner said. “1 have every confidence that I followed the Open Meetings Act and that 1 followed the protocol used by the three chair­ persons before me. “No violations occurred.” The issue that dominated the discussion at the Jan. 14 meeting was prompted by a request from Bethany Christian Services to authorize a letter to U.S. Secretary of Slate Mike Pompco. The letter slates the county’s consent to allowing the resettling of unaccom­ panied refugee minors with licensed foster families in the county. Bethany has never before placed refugee adult or families in the county , according to Jane Trejo. Bethany program manager. President Donald Trump issued an execu­ tive order on Sept. 26 that requ.red refugee rescttlemem agencies like Bethany m obtain written consent from state and county< govern­ ments to continue refugee resettlement work in that county. Il required written consent in the form of a Idler addressed to Pompeo. But a federal court ruling last week negated the need for a consent letter, Trejo informed the board in a fetter dated Friday. Jan. 17. A lawsuit filed last November questioned the legality of lhe executive order. Trejo wrote. “On Jan.I5. U.S. District Judge (Peter) Messitte issued a preliminary injunction halt­ ing the implementation of the Executive Order.” she stated. "According to the terms of die injunction, the State Department's Notice of Funding Opportunity, which required reset­ tlement agencies to submit consent letters as part of annual grant applications to serve resettled refugees, also cannot take effect.” According to Trejo, the court injunction means that, for the time being, refugee reset­ tlement will continue as before without expressed consent in locations as determined by the federal government based on family and community connections, affordable hous­ ing, and job opportunities, and with existing consultation with receiving communities. “We are immensely grateful for the consent letters we have received thus far from a bipar­ tisan group of 42 governors and more than 100 local officials.” Trejo wrote. “These let­ ters have been critically important, as they have helped us safeguard the refugee resettle­ ment program regardless of the outcome of this lawsuit. I hey also reflect the widespread biparti­ san support of refugee resettlement from communities across the country'. We continue to greatly value the partnership of Barry C ounty and the state of Michigan in the feder­ al refugee resettlement program." We did what was asked of us and we did die right thing.” Commissioner Ben Geiger said after the county board meeting Tuesday. ...If we would have said no. it would have been a w hiplash for the families involved. I’m glad we said yes." Spectrum Pennock becomes stroke 'hotspot' Diylqr Owens ’ Staff Writer Spectrum Health is speedink up the time it takes to diagnose strokes lo under 10 minutes w ith a new stroke hotspot procedure. After three to four months of staff training. Spectrum Pennock received its certification and became a stroke hotspot on Jan. 6. Director of Clthkal Nursing Chari Kemp said lhe hospital’s new process has decreased the lime it lakes lo receive CT scan results for suspected stroke patients from 26 minutes to nine. “I think this is a huge win for lhe commu­ nity,” Kemp said. “Our goal is lo be as fast as possible.” In many stroke cases, faster treatment means fewer long term effects, Kemp said. When someone conics into the Spectrum Pennock emergency department exhibiting signs of a stroke, Kemp said it's all hands on deck as the staff checks lhe patient’s vitals and does a quick stroke assessment. The team uses F.AS.T.(Facc Anns Speech Time) io assess whether the patient is experi­ encing a stroke. If the patient’s face droops slightly when they smile, if the Pa,ient has trouble keeping one ann steady or has slurred speech it’s possible a stroke is being experi­ enced. After all those assessments are conducted. the patient is given a CT scan and the resultss are identified - all within 10 minutes. “Until wc know- for sure, we treat it like it’ss a true stroke,” said Kemp. Between Jan. 6 and Jan. 21. 13 patientss came to Spectrum Pennock with signs of aa potential strokes. Five of them turned out toa be actual strokes. Once the condition is identified, the patientit may be rushed to neurosurgery in Grand Rapids or a neurologist may give directions remotely using Spectrum Health’s telemedi­ cine initiative. Kemp said lhe new procedure is one of many steps Spectrum Health is taking to improve care for stroke patients, and the hos­ pital will continue updating its procedures into the new year. REVAMP, continued from page 1 ----------------------------architects if that could be saved.” rhe answer was no "Sadly, it has seen better days,” Remenap said. Bui it Will be n-p, . by slorefn>nt-type windows, Schneiderhan slid *»* wil1 cmil a lot of natural lighl h) ' r(X),n „n lhe first "'^“''dlhee1^^^^,. It looks like a so|atjulIl and lets in a lot of natural light,” he sajd^“!,e-rc not eliminating that natural light;* ' Out of six hids for u.. asbestos abatement. board approv^^bid of $62,000 This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: sFlexfob Rebecca I,|crce Editor A Rutland Charter To'vnsh,P mnn "ho .spoke out against a refugee resettlement request approved by J he Barry County Bonn] of Commissioners |asl veek has filed a com­ plaint against two commissioners. al,cging (hey violated the Open Meetings Act. Joel Ibbotson, 31, said his civil rights were violated at the Jan. H meeting when his pub­ lic comment was interrlIF>^ee^ Vice Chairwoman Vivian Conner and Commissioner Jon Smelker. In the incident report Filed with the Barry County Sheriff’s Depariinenl on Saturday, Jan. 18, Ibbotson told a sheriff’s deputy that commissioners broke the laW- . . . "I was interrupted during my initial public comment at the Barry County Board of Commissioners meeting by vice chair Vivian Conner 18 seconds before niy three minutes had expired.” said Ibbotson in the police report. ”1 believe this was in Violation of Pa 267 of 1976 MCL 15.263 Sec. 3 (5) ’A person shall be permitted to address a meeting of a public body under rules established and recorded by the public body. I he Legislature or a house of the Legislature may provide by rule that lhe right to address may be limited to prescribed times at hearings and committee meetings only.’ “Vivian Conner breached the peace." Ibbotson contended his civil rights were also violated in a second instance during the meeting. "I was also interrupted and I believe I was declined use of my First Amendment right during the second public comment section.” said Ibbotson. “Both the vice chair ... and Smelker stated that I must address the board. “Vice Chair Vivian Conner went as far as to state she understood what I said about my right to address the public during the public comment yet proceeded to demand I address lhe chair and not the public. During this par­ liamentary' inquiry point of order they contin­ ued lo run the clock on niy three-minute deadline and gaveled me out before I was done addressing the board.’’ The complaint states the matter w as brought to the attention of Sheriff Dar Leaf on Jan. 18. Hmgi 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 I™ Quality Env,roi^i.|lal. c onstruction J? Lmenl company Wolgast Constrocti0n e nices recommended the school board awai?\ ,lrat is to: Burggrabe Masonry for , „usonry work; 1J humble Builders’ f i $156,000 <or 8en‘ era) trades; White’t ',X tor $65,3«7 for alumnium. g|ass ; ' MlBing Tile and Mosaic, Inc d/’,^si)4.576; Hurst Mechanical for for for inechanical work; and k^.n J - M s,)5,75O forelec- ‘nral work. The, ’•'Oc ved lhese recom­ S22 milli?,n6-’,u' PoVc^""’^ ' in at The Hastings Board of Education approved $2 2 m ir •-------------ments to Central Elementary School. The a|nSc airi, ,R uPQrades and improveshown here, cannot be restored, school officials sal i h he soul^ Qnd of building, storefront-style windows. (Photo by Rebecca Pier ) ** be rep,aced with larQe (lli||itm mark Where we thought wc would be.” scIhkM board pres­ ident Luke Haywood said Monday night. .......lhe time frame is going to be very short. -On the last day of school, teachers are moving all their stuff out and we have to be done by fall.This has to go like clockwork.’ Schneiderhan echoed that thought the next day: "We have to get out of that building We're putting a plan in place. We’ve got a W to do in a very short amount of lime.” �Tho Hastings Bannof — Thursday, January 23, 2020 Pag* 7 SOgjAL SECURITY MATTERS Special*5* Answers questions about IDs, taxes and more . Can I refits ^/busin^0^1 Security Security nuniber. ^rnuin^ould be careful about giving °ut ' . yoitr * ’ l*l“’ awurethe person request^f/provPUm>r can refuse services if y ou «‘ agVnc-Businesses, banks, schools. P .$ number ’ ure trvc to request •'^"Sji’t and Use ,l for any purpose that d i? o|a(c a fedcral or state law. To visit Security number. ssnumber. / am receiving benefits, and 1 I have to pay your Social *Mlsecurity.gov/ retirement >'"'*■ ieu""y. or FICA. taxes on mv income -mn|m. Yes By law. y<»ur e p,0>er must withhold mec^noTn MTnd,emenu School welcomed the Hastings Board of Education for its meetino attracted sch°o1 ,ibrary« A school board appreciation theme for the Prinrinni Dnnn q* rtvvork- cards and cookies from students across the district. Here, /nhntfh o u S ei" wilh some of the artwork from students at Star Elementary. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) School cell phone ban, expanded recess have positive impact, staff reports Rebecca Pierce Editor lite lunchroom is noisier — and school staff is happy about it. "What it means is kids are actually con­ versing. Hastings High School Assistant Principal Michael Goggins said. And that's just one sign that the cell phone ban during the school day in the high school is having the impact that was intended. Students are talking to each other attain. The board unanimously supported lhe per­ sonal communication devices fjolicy at its meeting Monday Trustee Dan Patton said, while he is in full support of the policy, "I think we could’ve implemented it a little differently." Trustee Jennifer Eastman said the only complaint she has heard is about the lack of clocks in the hallways and classrooms. Goggins said he was concerned the ban would be a tough to enforce. "I am happy to say I was wrong. It was smooth. The very first day we took 11 phones away. Since then, we haven’t more than three in a day." Superintendent Dan Remenap praised administrators and staff for how they have handled the implementation of the policy. Another recent change, to add additional recess time for students, has been successful as well, staff told lhe board. Southeastern Elementary Principal Dana Stein said that data hasn't been collected yet on the additional recess lime for students, but "my gut is that, in general, it was been very’ well appreciated." Teachers are saying that, thanks lo the additional recess, classroom time is more productive. Stein gave a separate report to the board an initiative she started more than two years ago to help students be self-regulating with regard to their feelings and emotions. "What a joy it’s been to be a principal at Southeastern," she said as she spoke about empowering kids to have control and the positive impact this has had. "We have slowly and surely seen a great decline in students’ needs." In other action, the board: • accepted S4.960 in donations from the Hastings Enrichment Foundation’s Board of Directors lo defray the costs of field trips, activities and materials for students. • approved the purchase of 50 additional band uniforms for a cost not to exceed $20,350. which will be paid back by the band boosters over the next four y ears. 'lhe band, at 154 members, is the largest group they have had in years. • the next meeting of the board will be at 7 p.m. Feb. 24 in Star Elementary School library. 1900 Star School Road. Delton Kellogg non-homestead millage on fcy ballot Luke Froncheck Staff Writer The Delton Kellogg School board will be going to voters in May to ask for a renewal of the school district’s non-homestead operating millage for another five years. The proposal, which was passed by the board of education during Monday night's regular meeting, is a renewal of the existing 18-mill rate and will run from 202! to 2025. "The non-homeslead property tax is for people who have vacation homes and busi­ nesses." Superintendent Kyle Corlett said during a Tuesday interview. ’ The most the school can levy on non-homestead property is 18 mills so what happens is. over time, that amount raised gets decreased because of inflation (and the Headlee Amendment). So. every five years schools must go out and ask for voters lo raise it back up. 'lhe non-homestead operating millage brings the school approximately S3 J 74 mil­ lion annually and. if the renewal vote was to fail in May. Corlett said the result would be Ca'7l<.™uldn;t even speculate what we would have to cut." C orlett said. "We'tv not even at •i noint where wc can cut things. ‘ Voters will see two proposals on the May ballot the |«-mi» non homestead renewal as we I as a second proposal calling for an addt. s mills as recommended by the disXf^yt-nw-l^erhrunl.wFinn.P.C. increase," Corlett said of lhe 1 ,S ,K nls "We cannot do more than 18 two propose . * nrotect us if the rate drops mills. That’s juMi pro -M Ot below 18 within does drop Ixlo wc again Evefy won t have to^ |U on the ballot lhe time you have >s of j0||an.’’ district pays lh.oUf‘ ..lt s;1jd it will save both By doing this. voters, money. du- school district •>» acting. Corlett Also, during MonW 1||e k |o announced that bl >-1 be(;n issUed. The he done this suminc • ( f|W, l)ie lof ",C 2019. The bond that voters apf r of (he middle work will include »oh .-^ fie|d improve.whool; baseball )VL.nlents to increase .nents; parking <>t n > ,,, in)prove- ^yJS*-**-*"* down of the old wood shop between the ele­ mentary' and middle school. The destruction of the old wood shop will make way for a new paved playground area for elementary students. The new area will be constructed where lhe wood shop currently stands and will give elementary students a place for recess when lhe other playgrounds are loo muddy for use. During the board comment portion of the meeting Vice President Jim McManus recom­ mended that the school withhold considering transferring any property to Barry Township until the school’s property is included in any potential Delton Downtown Development Authority and commit lo building a water tower in Delton. "It’s a vital tool for us to access some state monies for facade improvements and other types of grants that might help our downtown core Delton area," McManus said. The Delton Kellogg Board of education also: Retained its officers: Kelli Martin, presi­ dent; Jim McManus, vice president; Sarah Austin . treasurer; and Jessica Brandli secre­ tary. Participated in a workshop run by a repre­ sentative from lhe Michigan Association of School Boards on how school boards and other education professionals can interact with government and advocate for the educa­ tional field. Accepted the resignation of Elementary School Reading Interventionist Angela Parshall who is moving back to Battle Creek to be closer to her children. Accepted a food service policy at the rec­ ommendation of their attorney who advised that lhe policy should contain a statement acknowledging that the snacks available to students arc healthy and meet all guidelines Approved lhe hiring of the following spring coaches: Jesse Lyons, varsity baseball; Bill Humphrey. JV Baseball; Duane Knight, varsi­ ty softball; Bruce Campbell, JV softball* Katie Ingell, varsity girls track; Dale Grimes, varsity boys track; Jason Fleser, assistant var­ sity boys track; Jim Hogoboom, varsity bovs golf; Wes Wandell. JV boys golf; Mark Nabazoni, middle school track; Ben Munsell assistant middle school track; and Alan Mabie’ varsity girls soccer. FICA taxes Although you are rcli>^-^a7^Ve."edit forthose new earningsIJ ^ctal Security auto­ matically credits the n eainiings and. if your new earnings ate M r than tn any earlier year used to calcuW1- )our current benefit, your monthly l*wfi ““!** increase. For more information'wialsecurity.gov or call 800-772-1213 (T1Y 800-325-0778). Do members of Congress have to pay into Social Security? . Yes. they do. of Congress, the president and vice p-’Mdent, federal judges and most political appointees have paid taxes into the Social Secunty program since January1984. They pay ’nt<> lhe system just like everyone else, no mailer how long they have been in office. Leam more about Social Security benefits at **'akccurily.gov. How do I change my citizenship status on Social Security's records? To change your citizenship status shown in Social Security records: Complete an applica­ tion for a Social Security card (Form SS-5), which you can find online at socialsecurity. gov/online/ss-5.himi; and provide documents proving your • Age • Identity • New or revised citizenship status (We can only accept certain documents as proof of citizenship. These include your U.S. passport, a Certificate of Naturalization or a Certificate of Citizenship. If you nre not a U.S. citizen. Gaines Township temporarily halts private road construction Greg Chandler Staff Writer Gaines Township officials have put a hall to the construction of any new- private roads and driveways for the next several months while lhe township develops a set of standards addressing such roads. The township board on Jan. 13 passed a moratorium on the issuance of permits, licens­ es and approvals for the creation of private roads and driveways in the township until May 1. "This has been under discussion for years." Gaines Supervisor Robert DeWard said. "I figured it was lime to pull the trigger. It’s a health and safely issue.’’ Of greatest concern lo township officials is making sure the trucks of local fire depart­ ments have enough space to adequately navi­ gate private roads in order lo fight fires. DeWard cited two recent instances where a lack of adequate space for fire crews lo maneuver their trucks affected their ability to fight fires, resulting in loss to the structures. Township planning staff has been working with area fire departments and planning con­ sultants in creating a set of consistent stan­ dards governing lhe construction of private roads and driveways going forward. "Our main issue is making sure the roads that we have can support the weight of our apparatus, and thai we can enter (those roads) without damaging lhc apparatus.” said Paul Sheely, chief of the DuttOn Fire Department, one of the two departments that sene the township. Cutlerville is the other department. "We’re try ing to do what is in the best inter­ est of the public," Sheely added. Dutton fire inspector Dave VanPutten has also been part of the discussions on the new road standards, Sheely said. It’s expected the new standards could be presented to lhe township b Aprd, De Ward said. In other action at the jan meeting, the board accepted the ^ignalion of Angela Bumside, who had served as townshjp cjcrk since December 201 /. when she wajj appojn(. ed to lhe position *r the resignation of longtime clerk Cry*111* Osterink. The board appointed Mike Brew» Wh0 has |Ken a mem­ ber of the tow nship^ n,ng Board of Appeals, io lake Burnside’s P ^e for lhc 32-hour-aweek position. Social Security will ask to sec your current immigration documents) Next, take (or mail) your completed appli­ cation and documents lo your local Social Security office. All documents mu>t be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. For more information, visit soc i a Isec u rily.gov/ssnumbe r. What ure some of the documents Social Security will accept as proof of identity for a child? While you can use a birth certificate to prove age or citizenship, you cannot use it as proof of identity. Social Security needs evi­ dence of the child’s existence after birth. An acceptable document must show your child’s name, identifying information and, prefera­ bly, a recent photograph. Your child must be present unless the photo ID also shows your child’s biographical information (i.c.. age. date of birth and parents’ names). We general­ ly can accept a non-photo identity document if it has enough information lo identify the child (such as the child’s name and age. date of birth and parents’ names). We prefer to seq the child’s U25. passport. If that document is not available, we may accept (he child’s: • Adoption decree • Doctor, clime or hospital record • Religious record (such as baptism record) • Daycare center or school record , • School identification card ’ All documents must either be originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We cannot accept photocopier or notarized copie» of documents. To find out more, visit socialse? curily.gov/ssnumber. There, you also can find out what document- you need, fill out and print an application, and then take or mail lhe needed information to Social Security. You also may want to read the publication. Social Security Numbers for Children, available at socialsecurity.gov/pubs. Vonda Van Til is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her do Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp HE. Grand Rapids Ml 49525 or via email to vonda .van til @ssa .gov. ( Jfewbom babies Daniel Matthew Sobek, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on Jan. 2. 2020 to Kathryn and Matthew Sobek of Middleville. Lennon David-True Rabidcau, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on Jan. 2. 2020 to Kelsey McDiamiid of Middleville. Karter Jason Veltre, bom al Spectrum Health Pennock on Jan. 2. 2020 to Kaitlyn Ellison and Tony John Veltre, Jr. of Hastings. ***** t Myra Brodock, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on Jan. 9. 2020 to Jerrie Baker and Christopher Brodock of Hastings. . ***** » Ella Newth, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on Jan. 11,2020 to Chelsea and Tel Newth of Woodland. NOTICE TO BIDDERS BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION Sealed proposals will be received at the office of the Barry County Road Commission, 1725 West M-43 Highway, P.O. Box 158, Hastings, Ml 49058, until 10:30 A.M. Monday, February 10, 2020 for the following item. Specifications and additional information may be obtained at the Road Commission Office at the above address or at our web site at www.barrycrc.org. Liquid Asphalt for Chip Seal The Board reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or to waive irregularities in the best interest of the Commission. BOARD OF COUNTY ROAD COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF BARRY 1357-15 David D. Solmes Frank M. Fiala D. David Dykstra Chairman Member Member PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP 136080 PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO- THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF PRAIRIEVILLE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing regarding the rezoning request of Jeff Brown (Ned’s Restaurant) will be held on February 13,2020 commencing at 7:00 p.m. at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Road, within the Township, as required under the provisions of the Michigan Planning Enabling Act, Michigan Zoning Enabling Act and the Zoning Ordinance for the Township. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the applicant has requested a zoning ordinance text amendment and zoning map amendment to rezone a 50 fool by 98 foot strip of land located on the west side ol 15438 S. M-43 Highway (12­ 036-076-10) from R-l Low Density Residential zoning district to C-l. Rural Area Convenience Commercial zoning district. The Prairieville Township Planning Commission and Township Board reserve the rich! to make changes in the above mentioned proposed amendment(s) at or following lhe public hearing. Anyone interested in reviewing the proposed rezoning request may examine a copy of the same at the Prairieville Township Hall during regular business hours of regular business days hereafter, until the time of said hearing and may further examine the same at said public hearing. All interested persons are invited to be present at the aforesaid time and place. Prairieville Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary' aids and , services to individuals with disabilities at lhe hearing upon four (4) days’ notice , to the Prairieville Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring ! auxiliary aids or services should contact the Prairieville Township Clerk at the address er telephone number listed below. PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION Rod Goebel, Township C lerk Prairieville Township Hall 10115 S Norris Road Delton, Ml 49046 (269) 623-2726 | �HASTINGS PUBLIC library schedule Elaine Garlock The Lake Odessa Museum on Emerson Street will be open both Saturday and Sunday for the annual quilt show. The following week will bong a supper Friday night. Before last week's Banner reached its readers, the railroad improvement was already completed and m use. Each arm extends haltway across the road. plus an extra foot or three They have alternating colors, so about half the coloring is red. At the Monday night meeting of the board of directors for the local historical society. President John Waite reported that the earthquake in Puerto Rico came during nighttime hours, and it really shook people awake. He saw no injuries, but the emotional damage affected most people. The ocean water was very angry with the ever-present threat of a tsunami. People were warned that if the water rushed away from the land they should flee immediately toward higher ground which meat up the nearest niouniamcontinued the following . not allowed back in school un il there were rfive emmuous • i u tremors. I Hat. da) « hhout J ,cfl for hoine had not happened by the t,ni . a » .1 .,.irvu mountain gave the A glance up the ” ,c vhose appearance ofa tent city he ‘ 1 to sleep there rather than i» » 01 ... The Christmas MemW 1c" view at the museum. I hey * a suitable lime to vkw'h° names names on the largest tree.. added each year offered A class m fac Chi is i:k~irv meh lhe Lake Odessa Community library cad Tuesday morning under the iir^ Those Ionia County Commission on / attending are finding the loca > backs they did not know existed m their arms, backs and legs. City of Hastings OKs board assignments City officials and .staff members were •recently appointed to represent lhe city’s interests on lhe following commissions and • authorities. The list, which is not all-inclusive of all members of each committee, was announced at the Jan. 13 city council meeting and was to have appeared with lhe account of the council’s meeting in last week’s Hastings Banner. »• City boards and commission appoint­ ments . • • . Cable Access Committee John Clemence Hastings City/Barry County Airport Commission Don Bowers Nature Area Board David Tossava Matt Gcrgen Maggie Nedbalek Jennifer Johnson-Haywood Planning commission David Tossava Jerry Czarnecki John Resseguie Jacquie McLean David Hatfield Hastings Public Library Board Jordan Brehm John Resseguie Downtown Development Authority David Tossava Teri Albrecht Lyndy Bolthousc Joint Planning Alliance At Large: Bill Redman Jerry Czarnecki Theresc Maupin-Moore YMCA Board of Directors Jillian Foster Local Development Finance Authority/ Brownfield Redevelopment AuthorityDa vid Tossava Larry Warren Riverside Cemetery Advisory Board Dave Coleman Preservation Joint planning commission Council: Al Jarvis Citizen: Tom Wiswell Zoning board of appeals Tom Maurer Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real etale a4»crti»injt m rcuAjupcr is istject lo the Far Hixninf Act aM lhe Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively tnale it illegal lo bJvettice “wiy preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sec. handicap, familul national origin. a»e or nurtial status, ct an intention, in make any such preference, limitation <* diu rimmation." Fjnulul staitts includes children under the ape of I8 li»in$ "'th parents or lepl custodians, prejrwt women and sccunng custody nf children under 18 This newspaper will mx kno*ing.y accept any advertising for real c-tata which is in violation of the law Our readers are hereby informed ih-'.t tul dwellings .JvcrtiwJ •" this newijvper are aiXble on cn equal turn To report d.saim.nuU.Mi cJI the f air ll.io'inp Center at (iW>4M--9. 0 lh< HUO .oll-fnx lhe hearing impaired n I •>0’> • For Rent business Services DELTON, MICHIGAN- SE­ NIOR Subsidized housing for people who are 62-years and older with certain in­ come restrictions. 1-bedroom apartments available. Non-smoking, secured fa­ cility. Close io downtown Delton. Call for more in­ formation at 269-623-4000 or TTY National Relay 711. Equal I lousing Opportunity. MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-801-7506. Automotive 03 HONDA PILOT, leath­ er, good condition inside, needs motor. Asking $1,500 OHO. 269-838-6590. BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvemenls. Discount for Seniors & Vet­ erans. 269-320-3890. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability &z workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. Friday, Jan. 2.1 .^schixd story time, 10:30-11 a.m., ja ~ ‘ Lrics: Progress - 10 Reasons Pbrwwj lr>. ’ r.uture. 12:30-1:30 p.m. ’’ in Saturday, Jnn . t.uj Hatter Tea Party (for children «ge £ ,.2:30 p.m. * Monday. Jan 2/nd ’ 5cries: The God Who Sees. 12:30.1.^1 Tuesday, Jan. 2jJ‘2 ^ddlcr time, 10:30-11 a.m.; January Setje.7TijC Reformed Church in the World Toja> J ^.30j;30 p.m.; mahjong club, 5:30 p.m.; ch^club, 5:30 p.m.; geneal­ ogy club, 6 p.m. Wednesday, jnn _ Volunteer Income Tax Assistance hLjn zc<aH 2*1 for appoint­ ment) e ' Thursday, Jan 3() _ Baby Cafd.10 a.m.noon; Movie Mcmnrjes & Milestones watch­ es 1932 film starrinc riark Gable and Jean Harlow, 5 p.m. L More informally about these and other events is available by ^a|]inE the library, 269­ 945-4263. 7 “ LEGAL NOTICES Un u synopsis Hastings Charter Township Refluiar Meeting January 14. 2020 Meeting called t0 at 7;Oo p.m. Seven board member prcsent. Approved all consent aoenda items Approved 2020 budget Presentation by the bq rj Commission. Street light approved for 2 corners Election commission |or March Approved payment cl bills Dept, reports received and put on file Motion to adjourn 8 43 Pm Respectfully submitted. Anto S. Mennetl - Clerk Attested to by Jim Brown - Supervisor 136121 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE N0.18-28082-DE Estate of Gordon E Rummins. Date of birth: June 6,1951. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Gordon F. Rummins, died August 8, 2018. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the edate will bo forever barred unless presented to Patricia L. Rummins, personal representative, or to betnthe probate court at Barry County Probate Court,206 W. Court St.. Hastings. Ml and the personal repasentative within 4 months alter the date of publicaton of this notice. Patricia L. Rummins . . c/o 4365 Congdon Drive Williamston, Ml 48895 517-648-2689 7 136083 STATE OF MCHIQAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OFBARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decode n Vs Estate Estate of Jack V/. W«sma. Date of birth: 05/08/1933. . > ■. TO ALL CREDITORS: ' NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Jack W. Wiersma, died 11/03/2019. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate w91 be forever barred unless presented to Brian Wiersma, as Trustee ot the Wiersma Famly Trust, personal representative and trustee, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court St., Sto. 302,and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 01/15/2020 Curtis D. Rypma P44421 601 Three Mile Road NW Grand Rapids, Ml 49544-1601 (616)647-8277 Brian Wiersma, as Trustee of the Wiersma Family Trust 27 Country Fair Lane Glenville, NY 12302 (518)526-8317 135877 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to MCL 600.3212. that the following will bo foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public auction al the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, at 1:00 PM. on January 30, 2020: Name(s) of the mortgagors): Teresa M Boulter and Charles Boulter, wife and husband Original Mortgage^Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems |nc as nominee for lender and lender's successors a(rfW «'ygns Foreclosing Assgnea r,l any): New Residential Mortgage. LLC (" W Date of Mortgage; SeetemW' '5'2005 °a,° 01 “OHOago n'Lsl.ng: September 26, NOTICE _ rniintv Board of Commissioners is seeking applications from wluntews to serve on the following Boards/Commissions: 1 township official or designee 3 members: 1 must meet the consumer 4»UvO Amount claimed due on da-e el nolice:S82.389.3i Descnption ol the mon„ied premises: Situated lp living, ^county. Michigan, and ?S: ^innirS'a^nton the North and South 1/4 line ol Sectia„ U Town 4 North. Rango 9 West, distant SoKm 'l'° “n’8' 1/4 post of said Secti^33? Lace East 660 feet parallel with the East 3u d line of said Section 35. thence South 4,"“2 A We s“ 60IW1 n“o&' “id A"0"' "*nC8 The rcdemptton Cmonths from lhe date of such sale, w ’ ,™nod abandoned in ucco,donee with MC^Au’or. It the subject real property |s usaT.^0 32 w. ™! ourooses as defined by MCL P be obtained at the County Administration Office, 3-! floor Applications may w gtate S(Hastings; or smwJwrasijiunJjlOK of the Courthouse. -( _ for; A p0Sjtj0n on an Advisory Board or under the tab: How and must be returned no |ater than 5:00 Commission and d« « Contact 269.945.1284 for more p.rn. on Tuesday. Febr y information. If the property is ^nnure sa'o under Chapter 32 ol ^0 at , o( 19S1. pursuant to MCL sog 3^ -^ower will be held responsible to the 3^7q the b° nreperty at the mortgage to,e^> the mortgage °' «unng the redemption pertho Tliih notice iS fron, Date of nou^ ja^ a Oebt co*!0Cl0 Trott Law, p.c uar>2 2020 1405516 ‘ (01-O2)(01-23) Financial FOCUS K Provided by the Barry County offices of Edward Jones J^.Beck'AAHS9 400 W. State SL. Stilton Hasting;;, Ml 49058 (269) 945-4702 Sire Andrew Cove, AAMS© 421 V/. Woodfawn Ave. Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-3553 New rules for retirement plan contributions, withdrawals if you’ve had an IRA - ^H(k) for a k)ng fnrnT PrObably P^«y fam.har wllh lhe governing withdrawals and contributions . because, for the most part, they haven’t changed in years And you may also know what’s going to happen to your IRA if you leave it to someone as part of your estate plans. Bui we are about to see some changes - und you should be aware of how they may affect your individual situation. 1 lere s the story: Congress recently approved legislation called the SECURE Act, which, among its many provisions, includes several that should be of particular interest to IRA and 401(k) investors. The first of these changes deals with the money you take out of your IRA and 401 (k). As you may know, under the old rules, you were required to start taking withdrawals known as required minimum distributions (RMDs) from your traditional IRA and your 401 (k) when you turned 70 'A. Of course, you did not have to wait until that age, but if you didn’t take your full RMDs on time, the shortfall would typically be subject lo a 50% tax penalty. Under the Secure Act, the RMD age h is been pushed back to 72. Ihis higher age could benefit you by giving your IRA and/or 401(k) more time to potentially grow on a tax-deferred basis. On the other hand, by waiting until you’re 72, you could be forced to take larger RMDs, which are calculated by dividing your account balance by your life expectancy, as determined hy IRS tables. And these RMDs are generally taxed al your personal tax rate. The second big IRArelated change concerns the age limit for making traditional IRA contributions. Previously, you could only contribute lo your traditional I KA until you were 70 '/-. Under the Secure Act, however, you can lund your traditional IRA for as long as you have earned income. So, if you plan to work past what might be considered the typical retirement age. you have the opportunity to add a few more dollars to your IRA. Another SECURE Act provision deals with early withdrawals from your IRA and 401(kl. Usually, you must pay a 10% tax penally w hen you w ithdraw funds from either of these accounts before you reach 59 But now, with the new niles, you can withdraw up to $5,000 penalty-free from your IRA or 401(k) if you take the money within one year of a child being born or an adoption becoming final. The new rules also might affect your loved ones who stand to inherit your IRA. . Under the old rules, a non­ spouse beneficiary could stretch taxable RMDs from a retirement account over his or her lifetime. Now, most non-spou.sc beneficiaries will have to deplete the entire account balance by the end of the tenth year after lhe account owner passes away. So, this change could have tax implications for family members who inherit your IRA. You may want to consult with your estate planning or tax professional regarding this issue. Keep the new rules in mind when creating your retirement strategies. The more you know, the better prepared you can be to make lhe appropriate moves for you. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Bram Is s mushy messenger Dr. Universe: Why are brains mushy? First Graders. Waller Road Elementary, Puyallup. Wash. Dear First Graders. You’re right, brains arc quite mushy. Il turns out lhe three-pound organ between your ears is mosllv made up of water and fat. 1 found out all about brains from my friend Jim Peters, a neuroscientist al Washington State University. “h’s gooey. It really is squishy.” he said. “When it is warm, it is kind of like butter.” The brain may be soft, but it is surround­ ed by a lough layer called lhe dura mater lo help protect it. I also found out the brain actually floats around in a kind of liquid. This liquid helps keep the brain from touch­ ing lhe bone of your skull. The bones in y our body are actually made up mostly of minerals, like calcium, which give them strength and hardness. If you bonk your head on something, the bone in your skull is a great material lo help protect y our squishy brain. Still, bone can sometimes crack or break. That’s w hy it is so important to wear a hel­ met when you are being an adventurous rock climber, bicyclist or playing football. It protects both your tough skull and squishy brain. Part of lhe icason it is so important for brains to be soft is because they need some flexibility to wotk. I he brain can change itself — the actual connections and the way it functions — and helps us make different thoughts and memories throughout our fives. . 'I he brain is actually made of lots of tiny pans called neurons. When you were born. y ou had many more of these neurons than you do today. As you grow and leam. your brain trims these neurons to make just the right connections and circuits. Neurons that make up the brain commu­ nicate w ith each other to help your body do lots of different things — move, smell, see, touch and sense the world around you. There arc billions and billions of them. Peters (old me these ceils arc surrounded in a coat of fat called the membrane. The membrane is like a wall that surrounds the cell and gives it a good structure. That way. all the parts inside the cell can stay together. When cells communicate, they use elec­ tricity to make it happen. That s right — your brain is full of electricity. The tatty membrane helps direct the flov- of electrici­ ty to the right spot so that it can release chemicals called neurotransmitters. So. in a way, the squishincss helps brain cells make connections and pass those messages lo other brain cells. The brain is not only soft, but it has kind of bumpy, grooved or wrinkly surface. If you were to unfold lhe brain, it would take up quite a bit oi space. Some people have estimated it would cover an area lhe size of one to two pages of a newspaper. That’s a lor of brain rucked into your skull. Out mushy brains do all kinds of things for us. including helping read this very sen­ tence and ask big questions about our world. Dr. Universe Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University’s resident scientist and writer at Dr.Uni'erseJri. wsu.edu or visit her website, askdnmiverse.com. Call any time to place your Hastings Banner classified ad 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 134892 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. J.’.nu.'ify • .,.<0 f* hr V Ork ((t .i service fi'en November e^J1 jjj.iie ii, 12y2,’<“'nl,tat. there was no C < press q ,e,u against, me. Wolds 1 hi,vc tor the kiti<l"e" -n,f men 01 M >lhc ",c'> of Barry Coun L tH«" fair V’I"'"1 h:,ve always been mbe. '»• We should be. " Vf c Pmud ot the men of Michig*”’. . jf <<j, • Women pm'"'’ .,ru) i1„|if|Cqu:1d r'ghts <>f suffrage, to P“r"> uurs P^ics. I he opportunity is "» hop. doing ata. it? *’e ^’^ro. „r"bd;,a,',.,hi5 »» turning back the PAGES forming a trying (n . aP,n£ die weaknesses of men , tooutdo them in drinking and > Mlng down the bus and foW? con./ ’^tributes of womanhood which mandc<l and held < State’s first female judge lauded after speech Judge Ella Eggleston, part II Kathy Maurer Copy Editor Ella (Mills) Eggleston became Michigan’s first female probate court judge in November 1919. Being female in a world where men filled courthouses, office buildings and businesses was not the only remarkable piece of her story'. She had been a single working mother at the tum of the 20th century. Living with two preschool-age daughters at her parents* home in Hastings in 1900. she filed for divorce from her first husband, Benny Hecox due to non­ support. The divorce was granted in 1902. Ella married widower Ralph Eggleston in 1911 .helping to raise his three young children. She also apparently did not attend college. Her father. James Blair Mills, was the probate judge when she began working as register of probate. Familiarity with the office and its procedures, rather than nepotism, strengthened her qualifications. The former schoolteacher was commended by her peers over the y ears. When Judge Ellis Faulkner opted lo resign from the bench - saying the pay was not high enough to support his large family and that he would return to his pharmacy business - Gov. Albert Sleeper picked Ella Eggleston to lake over the duties of her boss. The appointment, though histone, did not draw a lot of attention statewide. It did. however, gain immediate praise from the editors of the Hastings Banner. “For the past 18 years. Mrs. Eggleston has been connected with the probate office in this city, serving as probate register. Her service has been characterized by such a degree of intelligence, good judgment, loyalty and cheerfulness that she has won a host of friends all over Barry County, all of whom recognize her exceptional qualifications for the office and will be delighted to learn of her appointment to the responsible position.’’ read the Nov. 20. 1919, Bunner. “No person in Barry County is as familiar with the probate affairs of Barry County as she is. and there will not be as much as a riffle in the smoothness with which the office has been conducted for years.” Three years into her judgeship. Eggleston was asked to address her peers at a state convention — ail male probate judges and their spouses or guests. The Banner Aug. 9, 1922. (which happened lo be her 49th birthday) summarized the speech and praised the judge, noting that copies ot the speech had been requested by people across the state, lhe Banner office must have received numerous requests, as well, because the full speech was printed two weeks later, in the Aug. 16,1922, Banner: Judge Eggleston’s fine address at the banquet given to the shite probate judges association At the recent meeting of the Michigan Probate Judges Association tn Lansing, Judge Ella C Eggleston gave an address at the banquet tendered to the Ingham County very highly ^ed^X^andsheh. been importuned for copiu • our readers will enjoy rea t L feel certain “It will soon be »PP««n'‘h" I am not a entertain. I public spe^er 'tor ha-*n will] , without leaving can never tell a . it sounds out the point and f wanted to fiat. But being a won • bfj|.f. anj [ talk, even though opportunity made due haste to auu R U) yoU offered by Judge Me about the “When I bcgan and what I was seriousncs> of the ’ misgave me as letting myself in tor. m> « lhen it canlc 1 realized my 'iale the great things to me that we can «'PPKeontrast with the in life by compartS<M» • opposite. inr un will act as a oi "“My place on the P< d wiI of the to emphasize the ’" ^erIf. after all. th« other speakers. And 1|he ,Ilajonty of is not the place of hom . t|);i| w<„nen have women fill. I an> »°9’ “ -jueir natnntg1 •s not equal ability lhc) have m.«k been along differen (ion but here good in their field <’f J rt ''Men have al'*‘‘^hemu|l UpOn womcn as purnr and finer thana i(ll, d by the earn an<* .jP|w to l>4ld us- r,,e> expected, and had ■' • «Pee(. us to keep ou? promise and e« orts to raise the standard so that |»> Ust be placed on a basis of truth and w f»d. They wished their W|,lf|mU 1 "cu upheld and strengthened. Hw) Th <>n us for purity in the hta• ’hoped we would stand’ equally firm. "8ht principles m business. They l'us % ?r ’ hC'P I"em' “We cannot be ‘yvnt. We must not fail. Let us lake the ,n me,‘ and live up to it. ]f wc can be no ^ore than a pmp to hold them up. let us be prop. “We can ask no greater honor than to walk shoulder to shoulder with the men, living up to their _____ ideals, demanding their respect, _____ encouraging them '?.“T.UP;hf> “P- and to live up to the best thm^life. Little imagination is needed to hear the applause Eggleston 5 speech received from men and women at tho gathering. See next week’s Banner to read more about Judge Ella Eggleston. Sources: Hasting Banner, ''Outstanding Women ofBarry County." 1976; familysearch, org: findagravejcom; "1^12 History of BarryCounts:" and the lair Gordon Mitchell. P0KE0 Hfim Man crashes into deck and smashes windows with sledgehammer A44-year-old woman called police at 11:58 a.m. on Jan. 9. to report a 44-\c’:-.r old Ionia man vandalized her residence and vehicle in the KMX) block of South Woodland Road in. Castleton Township. 1 he woman said the man had been staying at the residence off and on for three months. He had his Subaru Outback parked underneath the deck of the hcaisc ; nd was loading tools into it. When she confronted him that some of the tools v ere hers, he became “enraged” and smashed the windows of a truck with a sledgehammer. He then backed his own vehicle into a pole of the deck, then ran it into another pole, and drove... away, l he case is still under investigation. Shoplifter switches stickers Police were called to Walmart in Hastings on a shoplifter report at 9:25 p m. on Jan. 18. A store associate saw a woman who has a history of shoplifting at the store put a $4 stick­ er on a $19.99 hoodie. The 35-year-okl Hastings woman also attempted to leave with a gel • nail set and planner without paying for them. Information was forwarded to the prosecut­ ing attorney. Marijuana, alcohol involved in OWi arrest An officer initialed a traffic stop on a vehicle on North Avenue near Mud I ake R«wd in’ Johnstown Township at 11 p.m. on Jan. 15. The driver went around a barricade onto a closed section of roadway. The driver, a 40-year-old Battle Creek man. said he did nol have a license, and admitted to drinking before driving. Noticing a strong smell of marijuana.*, the officer asked the man if he had been smoking, and he hesitated Ixjfore replying^ “Umm... no.” /X 33-year-old male passenger from Union City admitted both he and the' driver had been drinking and smoking marijuana before driving. An open beer was also in the cupholder. The driver refused sobriety tests and was arrested. He had two prior OWL convictions. - Google calls 911 in domestic violence case Two officers were dispatched to the 14000 block of South M-37 in Johnstown Township. after receiving a 911 call from the area, al 11:50 p.m. on Jan. 17. No one spoke on the call, but 911 dispatchers could hear yelling and fighting in the background. When officers arrived, an eight-year-old girl who was crying let them inside the house. When officers went inside, a 34-ycar-old Battle Creek woman and her 28-year-old husband were fighting.. They initially refused to separate, but eventually did when the officers commanded them, fhe man had blood on his shoulder, neck and finger, and a bite mark on his back. He« refused to talk lo officers and was angry they were in his house. He refused a breathalyzer test but appeared intoxicated. The woman also would not answer questions, and had a .183 BAC. The woman’s 13-year-old son said he tried to leave the house when he heard hismother and her husband fighting, but she wouldn’t let him. He saw them choking each other on the floor and believes he heard his step-father say “Google 911,” w hich may have commanded one of their phones to call 911. Both of them were arrested for domestic vio­ lence and the children were picked up by their grandparents. Snowmobile crash results in serious injury Judge Ella Eggleston with a few exceptions, their field has not been in the business world. “Men like to do things, to organize and start big things, but they do not like to do the petty, but most important, detail work necessary lo keep it going after it was started. Women, with a few brilliant exceptions, are not leaders and organizers, but they are. both by nature and training, most efficient in picking up the ends and tying the knots that will keep a business together and make it a success. 1 believe the rank and file of women are content to be al the elbow of men. helping to keep lhe wheels of lhe business machine moving by looking after the all-important detail work that will bring it to a successful completion. “It Is not to be wondered al that men resent the advent of women in the business ranks heretofore held exclusively by themselves. We should be in a position to appreciate their attitude, for there is nothing a woman resents more than to have a man try to run her household affairs. She is likely to tell him in language most emphatic where to get off at (to use a slang expression). “Women must bide their lime, and prove themselves worthy of the confidence of men. They must not enter business as women, demanding and expecting the courtesy and deference extended in the social world, but as a person ready and willing lo act and do as a man would be expected to do in the same situation. * “Michigan women owe much to the broadness of her men. No other state has done more for her women. In property matters, the men have cared and provided for women better than for themselves. Time will not pennit of an enumeration of these facts. Besides her statutory rights in personal properly, a woman holds one-third of all real estate of her husband. He cannot sell or mortgage his lands without her signature, nor can he will his property away from her. ’ “On lhe other hand, a woman may make whatever disposition of her property she desires. She can carry on a business as though single; can will or deed her property t0 whomsoever she wishes without consulting her husband: and at her desire, if there is a child, he holds no interest in her real estate I am frank to say that I feel this is unfair in a way. but il shows what men did for us when wc had no voice in making or carrying out the laws. “The suffrage amendment was passed in Michigan by the men. Il was their desire to give us a square deal, so lo speak, and they did it of their own free will. The majority of women had not asked for it; 1 believe 1 am safe in saying, had not desired it. | Michigan women won lhe right to vote in 1918, through a state constitutional amendment, one of the first states to do soj. -1 owe the position I hold - not any exceptional ability on my part - but to the men of Barry County, who took this way io express their appreciation of the years of Owen Bartholomew Brodbeck. Woodland and Rachel Marie Ghs. Woodland Dustin Richard Courtney. Hastings and Jordan Elise Magee,Hastings First responders were dispatched lo Tischer Road north of Brown Road in Carlton Township for a snowmobile crash al 2:15 pan. on Jan. 19. The driver, age not given, was traveling south on lhe west side of Tischer Road, hit a culvert and was thrown off his snowmobile. The driver was wearing a helmul, bul sustained serious injuries and was flown by Aero Med to Spectrum Hospital in Grand Rapids. (J/iank See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits A very special thank you to Hastings Family Dentistry and H.P.S. for your donation to Alpha Women's Center. a REPORTERS WANTED 1 J-Ad Graphics is seeking good writers and reporters to cover the community. We have a lol going on In Barry County - and our readers are hungry for more. 1 I I I 1 I If you write well, with accuracy and brevity, and are familiar with government and how il operates, we're interested in you. Can you cover a night meeting or events on weekends? Now you've got our attention. If you can take good photos, that's a plus. Please email editor@j-adgraphics.com with your resume and a cover letter explaining what you have to offer. 3 OFF! | D«V<m Pt»cc, Gr»nd Rapdt _ Iinuarr JO- Februanr 2.2020 ? Michigan’s Only Winter Amo Showl 1 100's ot the newest vehicles fS" J*i'? u>- » ’rt 1 ’ it i<-c» »’•«-s.- I from over 35 manufacturers! GBAutoShow.CDtR Top end Luxury in the Million Dollar Motorway! «.£©■ frewMIMospcniTtw.rf.r 52OCC« 1 . Classics from tho Gilmora Car Masson! - •>' M “ । J J'V GRAsioShQW.CQfD IfeViH Plxc. Grand 284 N BRIGGS ROAD . MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 2G9-795.9Q91 / FAX 269.795-2388 invitation to bid Separate seated bids will be received by YANKEE SPRINGS TOWnship, baRRY County, Michigan for the furnishing and jnstai|ation of a standby generator on or before March 3, 2020® 2:00PM at tho Yankee Springs Township Office, 284 N. Briggs Road, Mlddtev'lle Michigan 49333, and at that time will be opened ^d read in public. The "Instructions to Bidders'* be obtained at the Yankee Springs Township 2q4 N. Briggs Road, Middleville Michigan 3 between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and SiOOp.n1 Monday through Thursday and are Tankeo springs Township website, No bidder may withdraw h'S• r bid within ninety (90) days after the schedu,e closing time for receipt of bid. Yankee Township reserves the right to reject any/a*’ waive any informalities in lhe bids reC0‘vflua]( d to accept and award the bid to the lowest d 'ea bid deemed most favorable to the interest^_ ^nkee Springs Township. available on I OFH SbX'C*! 1 >5^.’an r.'•;»/.?• of Yank*. Spring. 9 (^FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER awareness advocacy educa' Announces its Annual Meeting will be held January 30, 2020 11:45 AM at Seasonal Grille 150 West State Street Hastings, Michigan THE PUBLIC IS INVITED RSVP required by January 28,2020 269-945-5439 « > �Young grapplers earn medals at Forest Hills Eastern tournament Pierce Cedar Creek hosting winter celebration Saturday Each year Pierce Cedar Creek Institute opens its doors on a Saturday in January to celebrate the winter season. Winterfest will be ,12:30-4:30 p.m. Saturday. Jan. 25. Activities will make the most of traditional winter fun. ... . • Binder Park Zoo’s animal ambassadors will be part of an interactive live animal program. staff will teach everyone how animals adapt to colder winter months. Other activities will include sledding, snowshoeing and mingling around the large circular fireplace. ' The Binder Park Zoo animal program will be from 1 to 2 p.m. Snowshoes are available for all people of ages - toddler to adult. Inside the visitor center, guests can warm up around a blazing fine and enjoy family crafts, hot chocolate, coffee and snacks. Pierce Cedar Creek Institute is a nature center, environmental education center and biological field station on 742 acres with nine miles of hiking trails 10 miles south of Hastings. The institute’s mission is lo inspire appreciation and stewardship of our environ­ ment. Barry County Grapplers Association wrestlers Ben Furrow (fourth), Thomas Cook (second), Max Schnurstein (first), Riley Furrow (second). Bella Friddle (second) and Luke Klingc (first) celebrate their medal-winning performances at the' Forest Hills Eastern MYWAY Tournament Sunday. Barry County Grapplers Association wrestler Aden Armstrong celebrates a third-place medal at Sunday's Fores! Hills Eastern MYWAY Tournament. Saxons topple Titans in Jackson;, fail to Beavers The Saxon varsity wrestling team kept its Intcrstaic-8 Athletic Conference record even at 2-2 with a split of duals on the road at Jackson Lumen Christi Wednesday (Jan. 15). < The Hastings wrestlers fell 65-20 to Harper Creek and scored a 69-10 win over the host Titans. ■ Gabe Trick and Robby Slaughter had the lone wins for the Saxons in the dual with Harper Creek. Slaughter pinned Elijah Shipley 74 seconds into their 135-pound match. Trick pinned Blake Mudge 32 sec­ onds into their 152-pound bout. * A pair of Saxons suffered two-point defeats in the dual with the Beavers. Harper Creek’s Brian Castellanos managed a 7-5 victor} over Mason Denton at 130 points. Nick Martinez edged the Saxons' Tyler Dull 12-10 at 171 pounds. Harper Creek had eight nine pins in the dual. The Saxon team got pins from Jackson Dubois (285 pounds), Dull (160),Trick (145) and Shane Dillon (112) scored pins for the Saxons in the win over Lumen Christi. The Saxon team also got a 12-8 win from Jonathan Giro’n over Reid Garcia at 119 pounds. Mason Denton, Slaughter. Griffin Seeber. Pa} ton Miller. Cameron Seeber, Tyler Oliver and Parker Roslund had forfeit wins for the Saxons. Tile Saxons were scheduled to host league duals with Marshall and Coldwater last night. They will be back at it in the 1-8 Jan. 29 at home against Parma Western. Saturday the Saxons will go to the Flushing Team Tournament. Barry County Grapp.’ers Association wrestlers Cameron Humphrey (second) and Jordan Humphrey (second) celebrate runner-up finishes at the Forest Hills Eastern MYWAY Tournament Sunday. Barry County Grapplers Association wrestler Kade Case celebrates a sec­ ond-place medal at Sunday's Forest Hills Eastern MYWAY Tournament. Leslie ends Lakewood girls’ win-streak at three ' The Lakewood varsity girls’ basketball iQam had a three-game win-streak snapped by the Blackhnwks at Leslie High School Tuesday evening. • The Vikings stretched their winning streak to three games to open 2020 b> scoring a 43-37 win over visiting Olivet Friday before lhe 48-38 loss at Leslie Tuesday. - “A bench technical at the beginning of the fourth quarter really squashed any momentum we had going.” Lakewood head coach Kelly Mcints said after the loss to the Blackhawks. ‘Olivia Lang had II points and Haylee Marks and Kristie Possehn had seven each for the Vikings. Sophie Duits and Anja Kelley contributed four points each. . The Vikings took care of the basketball down the stretch in the tight-game Friday against Olivet, with Duits hitting a key shot to put her team up two in lhe closing minutes. The Vikings hit enough free throws to the stretch to dispatch the Eagle. Meints said her girls ran the ball well, and did much better offensively than it had in recent ballgames. The Vikings also worked hard on the board, finishing with 33 rebounds as a team. Defensively, the Vikings managed 14 steals as a team. Kelley had four steals to go along with a team-high 12 points. Kristie Possehn had ten points and six rebounds. Maradilh O’Gorman chipped in six points and six rebounds. Ellie Possehn had 11 rebounds to go along with four points. Duits finished with six points, two assists and two steals. Tlie Vikings are now 5-5 overall this season and 2-3 in the Greater Lansing Activities Conference. League play continues for the Vikings when they visit Stockbridge Friday. Lions win one dual and many matches at Colon Tri Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Maple Valley varsity wrestling leam split its two duals at the Colon Tri Wednesday (Jan. 15), besting the host Comets 36-25 before falling on lhe sixth criteria to Battle Creek Lakeview 40-39. , “We wrestled exceptionally well. Wc won more matches than wc lost (against Likevicw), but we lost the dual again,” Lion head coach Tony Waw’icrnia said. "They wrestled extremely well. Stuff wc have been working on in practice they finally produced.” The Lion head coach saw good single leg take downs from guys like Dillon Jorgensen and good half Nelson’s from guys like David Hosack-Friz/ell. Improved moves came out up and down lhe line-up through lhe evening. The team is down to nine healthy wrestlers at this point, and that was the criteria that ultimately decided lhe match with Lakeview - (Ire Spartans had fewer forfeits, Maple Valley w»m seven of the nine matches that . were actually contested. Maple Valley got pins against Lakeview from Danle Buttleman at 140 pounds, Cody Taylor al 152, AJ Raymond at 171, Gage Ertman at 103, Matthew Slaghl al 112 and Jesse Brumm at 130 pounds. Jorgensen pulled out n 6-3 win over l-akcview’s Brandon Betz in the 160-poimd match. Only one other bout went the full six minutes. Lakeview’s Tanner Underwood edged Hosack-Frizzell in their 189-pound match 2-0. Raymond and Hosack-Frizzell had pins at 189 pounds and 215 respectively in the dual with Colon. The Lions got 24 points from forfeit wins in that match. The Lions were slated to travel to Gull Lake for a non-conference tri last night. They will be back on the mat at Quincy’s Shawn Cockrell Memorial Tournament Saturday. The Lions close the Greater Lansing Activities Conference duals Jan. 29 al home against Lake wood. Barry County Grapplers Association wresllers Alex Schnurstein (fourth), Austin Friddle (first) and p^’on Boomer (first) stand on the podium at the conclusion of their medal winning performances Sunday at the Forest Hills Eastern MYWAY Tournament. Barry County Grapplers Association wrestler Logan Kerby celebrates a thirdplace medal at Sunday's Forest Hills Eastern MYWAY Tournament. Correction Third third-place finish for DK cheer at SMCCC jamboree lhe Delton Ke||,„,, var»il> coini>elilive cheer leam put, „ . ?!■ ,K. of die season J? al 'lueslt ''h^mhern Michigan Compeimve Chee/,’ L.„ee Jamboree al Coloma. Loiitr”-* The finish u;is ,. nt. 1IS the first t«o 7"|c,cncej.ulltk « . .^ntheistlwugh. third behind I ,, . h” . , ll!C “l,w i«nm took lhe victor} hiesday., ,nf734.50points. Goblc> was .jlw.ul of Delton Kellogg 635.% £■“*' (^0.68, White l,;geon(>28.U).|l(;Bloomingdale The Delton Kellogg girls scored a 199.10 in round one, a 174.68 in round two iUU| 262.20 in round three Lhosc second and third round scores were the highest of the season for the Panthefo so tar. Lawton had lhe top score in each round I’uvsday, scoring a 225(H) in round one, a 210.10 in round two and a 299.40 in round three Gobles scored a 218.40 in round one, a 203.92 in round two and a 288.10 in round three. T he Panthers are set lo host their own DK Invitational Saturday, beginning at 9 a.m. .is;,6.''sxt? c”ui1’ missioned vote on a refund ment request, misspelled the°last nT”’ Heidi Krauss of Barrv rn . a"’e °f Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads �Not^g’^^^^m judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236 Mri ?sed that the following mortgage will bo f<yJvJ?i212’ a sa'e of the mortgageei by them, at a publ.c auction sale to the for cash or Gush er’s check at the place of h^din^ cjcuil«xrrt in Barry County, starting prompt™ PM on February 20, 2020. The amSX mortgage may be greater on the day of sSTiS!?* the highest bid at the sale does ntf m n±9 entitle the purchaser to free and cS the property. A potential purchaser Is c-XXd to contact the county register of deeds oRK mSS.n' m6 mOrt9a9o^5): Adrian C. Enosfey. a AX® Mon9a" ASi:9ne° » a"* ^anciai Date of Mortgage: October 26 2016 Date of Mortgage Reconaing: November 17.2016 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $101,555 28 in /he o0rt9aged premises: Situated ? C^!L2f Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and thn rLS E5 °f B:ock 6 of Chamberfaln’s afWrtion to the City. Formerly Village of Hastings, Barry County; Michigan, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Uber 1 of Plats page 7 Hastngsl “58“5665 (" Bny): 236 W S*The redemption period shall bo 6 months from tho date of such sale, unless determined abandoned In accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property Is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will bo held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago. or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: January 23.2020 Trott Law. P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248)642-2515 1407311 (01-23X02-13) 135899 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961. 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the folowing mortgage will bo foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sa'e to the highest bidder for cash or cash er s chock at the place of holding the circuit court in Bony County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, cn February 20, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing tne highest bid at the sale does not automatically enthie the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name's) of the mortgagors): Daniel Lee Schu,tman. an unmamed man Ongnal Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems. Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): AmenFirst Financial Corporation Date of Mortgage: August 6,2018 Date of Mortgage Recording: August 13,2018 Amount claimed duo on date of notice: S129.345.05 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated In Charter Township of Rutland, Bany County, Michigan, and described as: A parcel of land located in the Northeast 1/4 of Section 11. Town 3 North. Range 9 West, Township of Rut'and. Barry County, Michigan, desenbed as follows: Beginning at a point on the center l.ne of Old M-37 which lies Soutn 00 degrees 06 minutes 20 seconds East 433.26 feet and South 50 degrees 33 minutes 20 seconds East 1056.01 feet from the North 1/4 post of sa’d Section 11; thence South 39 degrees 26 minutes 40 seconds West 189.0 feet: thence North 50 degrees 33 minutes 20 seconds West 217.69 feet: thence North 32 degrees 19 minutes 03 seconds East 190.47 feet to the center of said highway; thence South 50 degrees 33 minutes 20 seconds East 241.32 feet to the place of beginning. Common street address (if any): 2437 W State Rd, Hastings, Ml 49050-8561 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the da»e of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or. if the subject real property is usca for agricultural purposes as do,,neo by MCL 600.3240(16). , . If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 ol the Rev.sed Judrcature Act of 1961 member on actwe duty, it R hasconelurted «stb nSOaa/^ i( h3ve been ordered to J‘J th0 ^gaga at tho attorney for the party fof<*'°’. * telephone number staled in •* ‘ This notice is from a debt.coltector. Date of notice: January 23.2020 31 44qTNorthwestern Hwy. Suite 145 Farmington H»Hs, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1407033 IO1-23)(O2-13) 135829 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the fo'lowing mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some pad of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding the circuit court In Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on February 13, 2020. The amount duo on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title Insurance company, e ther of which may charge a fee for this Information: Name(s) of the mortgagors): Jordan Ashley Mack, an unmarried woman Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or ass'gns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): AmeriFirst Financial Corporation Date of Mortgage: May 22, 2018 Date of Mortgage Record.ng: June 8,2018 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $86,998 47 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated In Crty of Hastings. Barry County, Michigan, and desenbed as: Lot(s) 3. Block 7 of Kentield's 2nd Addition to the City of Hastings according to the Plat thereof recorded in Uber 1 of Plats. Page 37 of Barry County Records Common street address (if any): 722 E Cl-nton St, Hastings. Ml 49058-2414 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned In accordance with MCL 600 3241a: or, If the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sa'e or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property dunng the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty; if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing tne mortgage at the telephone number stated In this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: January 16,2020 Trott Law, P.C. . 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1406922 135788 (01-16X02-06) NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE BY ADVERTISEMENT. Notice is given under section 3212 of tho revised judicature act of 1961. 1961 PA 236. MCL 600.3212. that tha fo'low'ng mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, ex some part o! them, at a publ.c auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place c! holding the circuit court in BARRY County, starting promptly at 1:00 p.m.. on February 13. 2020. The amount due on tho mortgage may be greater on tho day of the sa'e. Placing the highest bid at the safe does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE INFORMATION: Default has been made in tho conditions ol a certain mortgage made by Rodney Esseltine and Bonnie K. Esseltine, whose address is 9349 Lost Trail Drive, Delton. Michigan 49046. as original Mortgagors, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., being a mortgage dated January 31, 2008, and recorded on December 1, 2008 as document number 20081201-0011457 . Barry County Records. State of Michigan. Said mortgage is now held through mesne assignments by Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC, as assignee as documented by an assignment dated February 20, 2014 and recorded on July 2. 2014 as document number 2014-006286. Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there Is Calmed to be duo at the date hereof the sum of SEVENTY-ONE THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED THIRTY-ONE AND 73/100 DOLLARS ($71,331.73). Said premises are situated in the Township of Hope, County of Barry, Stalo of Michigan, and are described as: LOTS 9 AND 10 OF LEINAAR PLAT, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF. AS RECORDED IN LIBER 4 OF PUTS ON PAGE 39. Street Address: 9349 Lost Trail Drive, Delton, Michigan 49046 The redemption penod shall be 6 months from the date of such safe, unfess tho property is determined abandoned In accordance with MCLA § 600.3241a In which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date ot tho safe. If the property is cold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of tho ~Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCLA § 600.3278 the borrower will be held respons ble to tho person who buys the property at tho mortgage foreclosure safe or to tho mortgage holder for damag.ng the property during tho redemption period. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. ATTENTION HOMEOWNER: IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICP MEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY, IF YOUR PERIOD nACTIVE DUTY HAS CONCLUDED LESS THAN on DAYS AGO. OR IF YOU HAVE BEEN ORDERED Tn ACTIVE DUTY. PLEASE CONTACT THE ATTORNFv FOR THE PARTY FORECLOSING THE MORTGAGF at THE TELEPHONE NUMBER STATED IN THIS NOTICE Dated: January 16,2020 For more information pfea™ contact the attorney for tho party foreclos'ng- Kennafh J. Johnson. Johnson. B'umbetg, A Associates Ur 5955 West Main Street, Suite 18, Kafemaio'o mJ 49009. Telephone: (312) 541-9710. fife n0. m‘. 72 4033 " 19 (01-16)(02-06) 135649 Norico IS Jugate* as' o' । 1961 PAjy p0’"’? tLT ^°°3?^ that the a sate of H* thorn, st a pol>' = lo, cash or ctaat court In b>' sa!» to th?^"'’ |M'1 ° «<”>« n h0 ,h,! %2o. lb, X I”'7 PM. on February on Jcunt dUtJ on the ntertgage m-ay bo 9Ul, yo “'fi Pl'!c"'9 the richest l>* * M autotnahcally entitle the , pure,,.ownership ol the property A po.^ 0| « « cnecuragrd to contact the county r«f q( oit.ee 0, a Mto insurance company, e- ’ may charge a fee for this information' „ Name(s) of the mo - s,. pobefl Pepef a mamed man ». Origna! Mortga^ Engage Electron r Registration Systems. *n<-' ^Wgeo. as nominee for lender and lender 5 and/or assigns Foreclosing '^^\~^tBank Date of Mortgage: May " .2017 Date of Mortgage R**fd‘f9 May 22.2017 Amount cla med duo on0! notice: $175,822.29 Description ol the premises: Situated in Township of Barry. cunt/, Michigan, and desenbed as: Commen^g .. the center of tho road where Mann-ng tne and West 1/8 Ime of the Scuthe- 1/4 of Section 1, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, (of a piace of beg nning. thence North a’ong the center 0 «>a a road 36 rods, thence due West 22-1/4 rods, thence South to said East and West 1/8 line, thence Fast 22-1/4 rods along said Ime to tho place of beg nn-ng Common street address Pf 1064Q Manni Lake Rd. Delton. Ml 49046-6609 The redemption penod s a <. be 6 months from the dato of such sate. untesS determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.32^1 a; Ofi tf 5ljbject rea) property is used for agnculturai purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sate under Chapter 32 of the Re/sed Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278Jhe borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys tire property at the mortgage foreclosure sate or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption penod. Attention homeowner X you are a military service member on active duty, if your per cd of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or rf you have been ordered to actne duty, please contact the attorney for the party fcreclosmg the mortgage at the telephone number stated m this notice. This notice is from a deb: co lector. Date of notice’ January 23,2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1407132 (O1-23)(O2-13) 135878 I Attention homeowner If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. Notice of foreclosure by advertisement. Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 6C0.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sa'e of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sa'e to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court In Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM on FEBRUARY 6, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Brendon Clement, unmarried roan, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems. Inc., as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/or assigns. Mortgagee, dated November 15, 2017 and recorded November 22,2017 in Instrument Number 2017-011820 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now he'd by AmenHome Mortgage Company. LLC, by assignment. There is claimed to bo duo at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ten Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-Eight and 10/100 Dollars ($1 lO.468.1Q)t including interest at 4.5% per annum. Under the power of sa'e contained in said mortgage and the statute m such CQSQ made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a safe of (h(? mortgaged premises, or some part of them 3t publ.c vendue at the place of hold.ng the COurt County. Michigan at 1:W PM on FEBRUARY G 2020. Said premises are locate^ in , Middleville, Barry County described as: Lot 36. Johnson's Action tQ |he * Middleville, according to the pfej thcrcof recorde<j in Libor 1 of plats, W2'*** County Records. 411 Sherman Street^ ^I’q, Mich ,^3 The redemption penod be G monlhs m£? date of such sale ijnabandoned in accordance with MCLA £^4ia. m which C3se lhe redemption period an 3f) date of such sale. If tne property Is soW at } anl to MCL 600.3278JW responsible to the 1 buys the nmoertv at the mortgage forcc'o^uif ->&$ Or ' u .. .lor damage . „ m tned mortgage hoWer to tho ' 0 h p,0|X!rty '|h(. redemption period. Dated: January 9,2020 1406273 (01-09)101-30) 135461 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice Is given under section 3212 of the rev-sadjud’c-iture act of 1961. 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the foi’ow.rg mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale lo the tvghest bidder for cash or cashier's cheek at tne place of holding the Orcutt court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM. on February 20. 2020. The amount due cn the. mortgage may bo greater on the day of sate. Plaong the h.ghest b d at tne sate does r.ot automatica'i’y entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownersh p of tho property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register cf deeds office cr a titia Insurance company, ettnar of which may charge a foe for this information: • Name(s) of the mortgagors): Jacob Sias, a married man Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns Forec'or. ng Assignee (If any): MtdFirst Bank Dato of Mortgage: August 26,2015 Date of Mortgage Recording: September 1,2015 Amount claimed due cn date of notice: $75,931.67 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Village of Freeport. Barry County, M-chigan, and described as: Lot(s) 3, Btocx 10 of MAP CF THE VILLAGE OF FREEPORT according to the ptat thereof recorded ir< Uber 1 of Plats, Page 22 ot Barry County Records. Common street address (if any): 120 Cherry St, Freeport. Ml 49325-9484 The redemption penod shall be 6 months from the date of such sate, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 a; or. if the subject real property is used for agneutturaf purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sate under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held respcns.ble to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption penod. Attention homeowner. If you are a military service member on active duty, if your penod cf active duty has conceded less than 90 days ago. or if you have been ordered to active duty, ptease contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. . Date of notice: January 23,2020 Trott Law, P.C. >' 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 j (248)642-2515 • 1407563 (01-23X02-13) Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that tne following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to lhe highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM. on February 06, 2020. Tho amount duo on the mortgage may bo greater on tho day of the safe. Placing tire highest bid at tho sate doos not automatically ontrtte tire purchaser to hoo and clear ownership of tho property. A potential purchaser Is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information MORTGAGE: Mortgagor(s); Raymond Featherstone, a mamed man and Jen Featherstone, his wife Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems. Inc. (“MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender s successors and assigns Date of mortgage. November 22,2013 Recorded on December 10,2013. Instrument 2013-014496 Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC Amount cla med to bo due at tho date hereof: One Hundred Frtty-Nino Thousand Three Hundred Forty-Seven and 80/100 Dollars ($159.347.80) Mortgaged premises: Situated in Barry County, and described as: Parcel 1: Beginning on tho North and South 1/4 line. South 957.78 feet from the North 1/4 post of Section 33. Town 1 North. Range 9 West, said place of beginning also be ng South, 297.08 feet from the Northeast corner of tho South 1/2 of tho North 1/2 of tho Northeast 1/4 ot tho Northwest 1/4 of sad Section 33; thence South 26-1.02 feet along said North and South 1/4 line; thence North 89 degrees 43 minutes 52 seconds West. 198.00 feet parallel with the East and West 1/4 line of said Section 33; thenco North 264.02 foot paral’el with said North and South 1/4 line: thence South 89 degrees 43 m:nutes 52 seconds East. 198.00 feet, parallel with said East and West 1/4 line to the place of beginning. Reserving the Easterly 33 feet for public road right of way. Parcel 2: Beg'nning on the North and South 1/4 line, South 1221.82 feet from the North 1/4 post of Section 33. Town 1 North. Range 9 West, said place of beginning also be ng South 561.10 feet from the Northeast corner of tho South 1/2 of the North 1/2 of tne Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of sa d Section 33; thence South 264.02 feet along said North and South 1/4 Ime; thence North 89 degrees 43 minutes 52 seconds West 198.00 feet parallel with the East and West 1/4 line 0! said Section 33; thence North 26-1.02 feet parallel with said North and South 1/4 line; thence South 69 degrees 43 minutes 52 seconds East 198.00 feet parallel with said East and West 1/4 line to the place of beginning. Commonly known as 15212 Kellogg School Rd, Hickory Cotners, Ml 49060 The redemption period will be 6 months from tho date of such sale, unless abandoned under MCL 600.3241a. tn which case the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of such sate, or 15 days from the MCL 600.3241a(b) notice, whichever is latw, cr unless extinguished pursuant to MCL 600.3238. if the abov* referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sate w Chapter 32 Ct Act 236 o» 1961. under MCL C00..2/8. the borrower wi’l bo held responsble to the pers^ who buys the property at tho mortgage ^'c’dSl5® sale or to the mortgage bolder for d‘,^TW9'’’9. n property dunng the redemption penod Att homeowner If you are a military service menwr^ active duty. ‘I your period of active duty has conu> less than 90 days ago. or if you have been 01r e­ active duty, please contact the attorney'for P. foreclosing the mortgage at tire telephone stated in this notice. Lakevrew Loan^rv« nj. U- • Mortgagee/Assianec Schne'derman A Stier • 23938 Research Dr, Su-te 300 Farmington HJIs. Ml 48335 248.539.7400 1406272 (01-09X01-30) 135157 <140q (01-09X01-30) > 136095’ NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTINGTO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE' OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE/ PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER' BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS’. This sale may be rescinded by tho foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your,' damages, if any. shall bo limited solely to return of tho bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest..’ NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE BY ADVERTISEMENT: • Notice is given under section 3212 of tho revised judicature act of 1961.1961 PA236, MCL 600.3212,; that tho following mortgage will be foreclosed by* a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidderfor cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barty County, starting promptly at 1:00 p.m., on February 27,2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sa'e. Placing the highest bid at the sate does nd autorr.atica'ly entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser Is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE SALE: Default has been made In the conditions of a mortgage made by JOHN OUN. original mortgagors), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as original mortgagee, as nominee for Mid America Mortgage Inc., its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated July 19, 2016, and recorded on July 29, 2016, as Instrument No. 2016-007453, in Barry County Records, Michigan and last assigned to Mid America Mortgage. Inc­ as tho foreclosing assignee, as documented by an Assignment of Mortgage dated December 9, 2019. and recorded on December 16.2019, as Instrument No. 2019-012376. in Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there Is claimed to be due and owing as cf February 2. 2020, the sum of One Hundred Seven Thousand &x Hundred Ninety Seven and 59/100 U.S. Dollars ($107,697.59). Said mortgaged premises is situated at 226 West Marshall Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 in the City of Hastings Barry County. Michigan, and is described as- LAND IN THE CITY OF HASTINGS. BARRY COUNTY. MICHIGAN, TO WfT: EAST 1/2 OF LOTS 1272 AND 1273, CITY OF HASTINGS. FORMERLY •DIE VILLAGE OF HASTINGS. ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, BARRY COUNTY RECORDS. The redemption period sha’i be 6 months (180 Days) from the date of such sale, un'ess determined abandoned m accordance with MCLA 600.3241a. in which case the redemption penod shall be 30 days from the datn of such safe. Pursuant to Chapter 32 of tne Revised Judicature Act of 1961, if the property is sold at forec'-osurei safe the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys tne property at tho mortgage foreclosure sals or to the mortgage holder under MCLA 600.3278 for damaging the property during tne redemption penod. Attention homeowner: If you am a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago. or if you have been ordaed to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foroclosng the mortgage at the telephone number staled in this notice. Dated: January 7,2020 For Moro Information, ptease call. Matthew R Reinhardt. Esq. Quinta n», Prieto, Wood & Boyof, P.A. Attorneys tor Servicer 255 South Orange Avenue, Suite 900 Orlando. Florida 32801 -855) 287-0240 Matter No. 139770 (01-09R01-30) File No. 19-012511 Firm Name Orians PC Firm Phone Number. (2- • Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice Is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature) act of 1%1. 1961 PA 236. MCL 600 3212, that the following mortgage wi’l be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises. Of some part of them, at a public auction sate to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of hold ng the circuit court iri Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM. on February 06, 2020. The amount duo on the mortgage may be greater on the day of tho sale. Placing 1ho highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact tire county register of deeds office or a title Insurance company, either of wh:ch may charge a fee for this Information. MORTGAGE: Martqagor(s): John Ancs. an unmamed man Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems. Inc. (’MERS”). eoWy as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and assigns Date of mortgage: August 4. 2015 Recorded on August 20, 2015, in Document No. 2015-008134, Forcc'osing Assignee (if any): Quicken Loans Inc. Amount claimed to be duo at tho date hereof: One Hundred Five Thousand Two Hundred Four and 79/100 Dollars ($105,20-1.79) Mortgaged premises: Situated in Barry County, and described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of Lot 1152 of the City of Hastings; thenco North 4 rods; thence East 12 rods: thence South 4 rods; thence East 12 rods to lhe place of beginning. Barry County. Michigan. Commonly known as 733 S Church St, Hastings. Ml 49058 The redemption period will be 6 months from the date of such sate, unless abandoned under MCL 600.3241a, in which case tne redemption period will be 30 days from tire date of such sate, or 15 days from the MCL 600.3241a(b) notice, whichever is later or unless extinguished pursuant to MCL 600.3238. If tire above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of Act 236 of 1961, under MCL 600.3270, the borrower will be held responsible to tho person who buys the property at tho mortgage foreclosure sale cr to tho mortgage holder for damaging tho property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military' service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at tho telephone number stated in this notice. Quicken Loans Inc. Mortgagee/Assigneo Schneiderman & Sheiman PC. 23938 Research Dr. Suite 300 Farmington Hilis, Ml 48335 248.539.7400 135449 �’ Page 12 — Thursday, January 2020 — Tlx) Hastings Banner boys Pennfield and Northwest hold down ** Brett Bremer The Saxons areslifi shooring for their first feSdd varsity basked^Uam propped the Hastings boys tc» • ftlendar flipped, and 1-5 overall th s .was n > the Interstaie-8 Athletic Conference »it H®-42 win Tuesday. . ,. )■-The Panthers combined £ %th great bril-movement and shooting on th ?."^y are playing very well. W£"- het of returning guys that know w a to nreomohsh on offense, a c • ‘ not a «ry good performance from us." u ' linRS head coach Rich Long said. 1 •’fhev have very nice ball movement. 1 hey shoJt di ba" "ell" H,ng added. "(Luke) Davis and (Ryne) Petersen They shoot, (hey can drive, and they like to dove over he op. Most teams don’t help very well over he (op. Thev-re purposeful on it. and when they get there (hey know their outs for shooters il you help or if you don’t help then they can finish Gardner. It is the second consecutive lop-sided loss in the 1-8 for ihc saxOn5 who were bested 59-36 at Jackson Nonhwest >asl Friday. Pennfield wns the first team in five games to regularly play ln.in.to-man against the Saxons. The Saxoiu sirugf!,ed ,o a rhyihm offensively, regardless of tire bit of pressure applied by the Panthers. Hastings got 11 points from Evan Eastman in the loss. Carter Hewitt added seven points and Elijah Smith, Mitchell Eldred and Kirby Beck had five points apiece. “We didn’t move the ball very well. We got their drive. . f , Petersen had a team-high 19 points for the Panthers. Aiden Bums, a sophomore guard, finished with 14 points for Pennfield. Davis had eight points, as did teammate Shawn Hastings senior center Evan MurPhy chases down a rebound during his team s 1-8 contest with Pennfield at Hastings High School Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Pennfield's Andrew Hoban works to get a shot around Hastings' Carter Cappon in ■the lane during the second hall of their Interstate-8 Athletic Conference match-up at Hastings High School Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) impatient and attacked out of frustration. Long said, rather than attacking in a con­ trolled way like the Pennfield guards who recognized their options with each drive. Pennfield moves to 7-2 overall this season with the win. Pennfield is currently 4-2 in the 1-8. tied for second in the conference with Coldwater and Marshall. Parma Western leads the league at 5-1 in conference play. The 1-8 doesn’t let up. The Saxons will be back on their home court Friday to take on a talented Marshall team. “Our talk after the (Pennfield) game was to get together, come together as a team, lets keep building, lets not give up and get back on I. > track. We have been very close in a lot of f. games. The last two have gotten away from us," Long said. The Saxons will also be at home Jan. 31 to take on Coldwater. A Tuesday off in a stretch of four consecutive home games isn’t such a bad thing for the Saxons right now. Heading into the Pennfield match-up lhe Saxons four previous ballgames had all been on lhe road, a trip to Ionia followed by the contest with Harper Creek at Little Caeser’s Arena in Detroit and then two trips to Jackson last The Saxons' Braden Vertalka attacks the basket during the second half of his team’s week. 1-8 loss to visiting Pennfield Tuesday at Hastings High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings is fflw, •f Pennfield overtakes Saxon eheer 'in round three at Lumen Chrosto Hastings has some work to do to get on top bf tire Interstate-8 Athletic Conference comj)ctitive cheer standings after a tough end of the conference’s first jamboree of the season -last Wednesday at Lumen Christi. Hastings had a 28-point lead on Pennfield heading into lhe final round, but 30 points of deductions in round three left the Saxons almost 12 points behind the green and gold Panthers in lhe end. ” Pennfield won lhe jamboree with a total : score of 692.04 points. Hastings was second with a score of 68050, ahead of Parma Western 659.12, Lumen Christi 594.40, Northwest 553.90 and Harper Creek 49350. Hastings had the lop score in each of the first two rounds, a 227.20 in round one and 221.00 in round two. Those were the top scores of the season in each of those rounds for the Saxons. Hastings scored a 262.30 in round three, before the 30-point deductions were taken off. Pennfield scored a 219.60 in round one and a 200.74 in the second round. The Panthers closed lhe meet with a score of 271.70 in round three, a total that included an eight­ point deduction in the final round. The Saxons are scheduled to be a part of lhe Otsego Bulldog Invitational Saturday. The next 1-8 jamboree is Jan. 29 at Parma Western. Saxon girls roll by Western for second 1-8 victory The Hastings varsity girls’ bowling team fmadc it two victories in a row in the Interstate-8 •Athletic Conference by rolling past Parma • Western at Hastings Bowl Tuesday afternoon. . The Saxon girls rolled 149 and 179 Baker । games to secure all ten Baker points and took ■wins in both lhe match-play games with ; scores of 1526 and 1283. They knocked off •the Parma Western girls 28-2, following up on • a Jan. 14 victory over Lumen Christi that was ’the first 1-8 win in the history of the program. I Abby Zull and Ashland Hoyt won two • match-play points each for the Saxons ;Tuesday, with Hoyt rolling a high-score of • 212 in her second game of the afternoon, i Andrea Rhodes rolled a 212 to secure a J n)atch-play point and Daisy Kerby secured a ! Match-play point for the Saxons too. ’Hie Hastings boys also scored their first-ev­ er Interstate-8 Athletic Conference win last week at Lumen Christi, but couldn’t quite make it two in a row as they fell to the Parma Western guys 16-14 Tuesday. The Saxon boys scored a 170 and a 212 in the two Baker games to score all ten of those points. Logan Nyc rolled a 212 for lhe Saxons to win a hard-fought point. Paxton Walden secured two Saxon match-play points with a 199 and a 176. Jacob O’Keefe and Cameron Eaton also won match-play points for Hastings, with O’Keefe tallying a high-game of 227. The Saxons will be on the road to take on Marshall in an 1-8 dual this afternoon and then will return to action at Hastings Bowl Tuesday against Coldwater. Call any time to place your Hastings Banner classified ad 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 P^apte Vafcs/ girts overtake Pilgrims in fourth for first win The Maple Valley varsity girls’ basketball leam held Lansing Christian lo 11 points in the second half Tuesday and nudged in front of the visiting Pilgrims to score its first vic­ tory of the season. The Lions knocked off Greater Lansing Activities Conference foe Lansing Christian 36-32 in Lansing to improve to 1-9 overall this season. Ashlyn Wilkes had a team-high 16 points for the Lions, going 6-of-6 al lhe free throw line in lhe fourth quarter and 8-of-8 from the line overall on the night. The Lions as a team were 13-of-16 at the free throw line, going 10-of-13 in the fourth quarter. Alison McGlocklin and Megan Valiquette put in nine points each for the Lions. Katelyn Bontrager led lhe Pilgrims with 13 points, but had ten at the half. As a team, Lansing Christian managed just three field goals in the second half. Maple Valley will be back in action Friday against Leslie as the Lions host their Winter Homecoming contest. The Lions were bested by Lansing Catholic 51-24 last Wednesday evening. Wilkes had 17 points in the loss to the Cougars. Saxon rally a bucket short in loss to Pennfield girls Bnett Bremer Sports EditlJr Pennfield built a double-digit lead after going into lhe half iied al 20-20 with the vis­ iting Hastings varsity girls’ basketball team Tbesday, and then it w£ the Saxons’ turn to go on a run. Hastings battled back to within a point, and got a couple chances in the closing seconds, before Pennfield sealed a 37-34 Interstate-8 Athletic Conference victory at the free throw line in Battle Creek “1 was proud of’.i e girls with how hard they competed," Hastings head coach Mike Engle said. “We g0( do/n two different limes by ten points late in (h. ^ird quarter and early in lhe lourth, and desnile how young we are they did not get fn" Led but instead kept executing our set pla and chipping away at the lead until Wc |vcs in a position to win the ballgarneVouP Hastings extended ;.s defense and held the Panthers to jUsl '11 inis for more than •seven minutes in f^irlh quarter. Within one under its 0Un 1 wilh ten seconds to go. lhe Saxons a^Lay but didn’t get a gcxxi look at thc ,he 1x111 back out and got one <h('’^offensive rebound, and then another that wouldn't fall before Pennfield hanLt a rebound and knocked down t^./f throws to extend its llnal '^<0thC?free,h Pennfield h«i J”""’' f ten points in the 1 *3-26. Abigail Schwartz led the Panthers with 20 points. Macy Winegar had 15 points and four assists for the Saxons. Josey Nickels had eight points and eight rebounds. Carly Warner con­ tributed seven points and five steals. “Although wc did a lot of things really well tonight and put ourselves in a position to win, a close game like this exposes the smaller mistakes that can become the difference in winning and losing a game. We shot 3-of-l0 from the free throw line which is well below our season average.” Engle said. "A free throw here or a turnover there can be lhe dif­ ference in a one-point game and that is where this young team has to improve to start con­ verting some of our losses to wins.” One free throw here or one turnover there wouldn’t have been enough last Friday as the Saxons were bested 55-10 on lhe road at Jackson Northwest. The Mounties are 9-1 overall this season and 5-1 in the Interstate 8 this season. knocked ofT Ihc Marshall girls 45-37 hiesday in Jackson. Hastings is now 0-10 this season The Saxons return to action at home against Marshall Enday. Vikings win pair of duals at Fowlerville Quad The Lakewood varsity wrestling team top­ pled Haslett and Flint Cannun-Ainsworth al thc Fowlerville Quad Wednesday evening. laikewood bested lhe Haslett Vikings 63-15, getting pins from Kanon Atwell (125 pounds), Donavan Pratt (145). Vern Fields (152), Nathaniel Graham (160), Allen Shellington (189), Jon Clack (215) and Grant Clarkson (285) in the dual. The only six-minute win for Lakewood in the dual with lhe Haslett Vikings was Zachary Gibson’s 8-2 decision over Alex Kolar to close out the dual. With Haslett, and nine in the dual with Carman-Ainsworth. kdrewood got a pin from JoKlan al 125 pounds in lhe dual with f’»mnn Ainsworth, and a 7-6 win from Gibwn aU P pounds over Isaiah Robinson * over Niles Brandywine a ”Wm Bronson and a 58-24 w’r, ’ “ **" 0VCT Horton. over Hoover- �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 23,2020 Trojans m< Page 13 with fewer cheerleaders Brrtt Bremer Sports Editor for an illness-ph^1^^'*'’surviving varsity competitive cheer invitational Friday night Pl> c Kellogg Rt Us homc scores of total of 710.64 point. -ru 'PUltlng UP « final place M the 1 £ for third evening-s championship wiih^’tT ,hc and Portage Nodhem w« J22** of lhe Tbojans, at 711 jo COn“’JUst a^ad Typically the Trojans have sent. v leaders to the mat in each n,„JTnt Cn ch<xr' requirement in round tw™ for^n-* squads. The team sem uo r D,v!sion 2 round Friday after rcwoA n?Tx°U' “ tach lhe couple hours leading r°^,lne h they could With What they had. We have tenon the mat. We went with five tX It worked out well for us.” y ,. r,ve on «he mat in round two cost *e Trojans a ten-point deduction, but with a boost from five girls performing solid back tucks in the round, that wouldn’t typically be one of the team’s skills in the round, TK still managed a score of 20254 for the round. It was a higher score than the one from the champs from Mason in lhe round, and only bettered by the Portage Northern girls. The Trojans started reworking their perfor­ mance plan in lhe practice room in the hours leading up to the meet. . It was like four hours before the competi­ tion, we all just kind of pul our (stuff) togeth­ er,” Trojan senior Riley Hall said. “We were here al 2:20 getting ready. (Coach Clouse) pretty much told us what the deal was, then one girl, Kylie (Smith) just decided to throw a tuck and that is what we put in round two. Wc weren’t going to do leam tucks, and then she just did il.” Coach Clouse has never had one of her Trojan varsity teams perform team back tucks in round two before. ‘‘I was just thrilled with my team today, with what we did," Clouse said. “We changed literally every round from ten lo five two hours before this competition. I couldn’t have asked for any more than what they did today, especially with how more than half of them are feeling. They showed up and did what they needed to do.” TK opened the night with a score of 219.2 in round one and closed with a 288.9 in round three. The Trojans were nearly 12 points bet­ ter in each of those rounds than they were at the first OK Gold/Grccn Conference jambo­ ree of the season Jan. 8. Coach Clouse said ideally the Trojans will be back out to having at least ten cheerleaders on thc mat in each Thornapple Kellogg’s Anna Benedict and her teammates thrdW their arms towards the sky as the close in on the conclusion of their round two performance Friday at the TK Invitational. (Photo by Brett Bremer) round soon, but there will be some team dis­ cussion about what is best for the team and thc future after putting out such solid scores with a handful of girls performing. “I think wc have made such amazing strides this season, like seriously, and today of all days.” Hall said.“It is awesome. Every body was really sick going into the competition, we were all very’ scared lo see what the outcome was. I think wc all came together perfectly and all did our jobs.” The TK girls also finished ahead of OK Gold/Grevn Conference foes Byron Center, Forest Hills Eastern and Zeeland West at the meet. Die Trojans were set to lake part in the second conference jiimboree of the season last night al Hamilton. Byron Center. Hamilton and TK finished 1-2-3 at the first conference jamboree of thc season - finishing within six points of each other and nearly 90 points ahead of perennial league power Forest Hills Eastern. "The last couple years it has been Forest Hills Eastern dominating our conference,” Clouse said. "This year, Hamilton, Byron Center and us are neck and neck and probably will be for the rest of the season. It is going to be whoever shows Up that day. I was just talking to another cojch tonight, it is fun for lhe girls, it is funftHpach, itpushes lo work harder, it pushes them to show up every day, not that they wouldn’t before, but it keeps that competitive edge in them." Byron Center was fourth Friday, finishing with a total score of 660.80, ahead of Lowell 657.18. Grand Rapids Catholic Central 638.04, Forest Hills Eastern 622.60, Grant 614.94, North view 600.68 and Zeeland West 598.28. Mason won with a score of 221.60 in round one, 200.64 in round two and 300 70 in round three. The Bulldogs had the top round one and Defense picks up in second half, DK boys down Lawton Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ basket­ ball leam took its second Southwester Athletic Conference Valley Division victory of thc season Friday, knocking off the Blue Devils at Lawton High School 44-37. The Panthers turned lhe ball over 16 limes, allowed Lawton to shoot 26 free throws while shooting just nine of their own, and shot poor­ ly overall. Still, lhe Lawton boys held just a three-point lead at lhe end of the first half. “It was a game that we could of easily lost if it had not been for our defense,” Delton Kellogg head coach Jason Howland said, who called it probably one of his team s best defensive games of the year. “We came out with great energy and our defense was able to come out in the second half and hold them to a total of 11 points to help us gel lhe win,” Howland said. Offensively, the Panthers got 12 points from Dawson Grizzle, ten from Jordan Rench and nine from Cole Pape. Grizzle played a great game, adding nine boards and three steals. Pape had 16 rebounds. The defensive effort and energy wasn’t there Tuesday as the Delton Kellogg boys fell 89-49 in a non-conferencc match-up with Parchment at DKHS. The Parchment boys shot over 50 percent from the field, hitting 12 of 24 three-point attempts. “We were unable to put the ball in the bas­ ket and when we missed Parchment was able to convert on the other end," Howland said. “Our shot selection and movement on offense was disappointing to say lhe least. Parchment got up on us early and we just could not climb back into the game.” Jacob Kemp came off lhe bench to give Delton a bit of a spark, finishing with 11 points. Rench had eight points, and Grizzle seven. “This is a game that you leam a lol from as a individual, and a team.” Howland said. “Hopefully we realize we have a long road in front of us still and a lot of things to improve Panthers take second shot at Schoolcraft Friday night Schoolcraft ended the Delton Kellogg var­ sity girls- basketball team’s first winning Southwestern Athlete Division contest Friday. o.back ballDehon Kellogg *"^eek. knocking gan.es on the road in the lo^ a 54.27 off Parchment 38-21 Friday. SAC Valley win ^*10" inls and Mary Holly McManus had !n(s and H Whitmore contributed Devils lnsl rebounds in the wm over cjght Friday. Katie Tobias had ■ points in the victory. from the “We ended up shooting «()f our lwncr floor for lhe night. «'*"*• . ^on.” DK head outings in that category d»>se coach Mike Mohn sard'. ht fouls all The Panthers only comnm game, allowing Lawton to shoot just two free throws. "Pretty good effort from everyone and I thought we did a nice job of playing our brand of basketball and try and do things that we just don’t do." coach Mohn said. Whitmore had another double-double in the win over Parchment Tuesday, putting in ]4 points and pulling in 15 rebounds. She had p offensive boards. McManus finished with ten points, six rebounds, four .steals and four assists ’ She only turned the ball over twice. Lauren 1xbeck added four points, seven rebounds and an assist for DK, playing a nice game off the bench according to Mohn. Neither leam shot very well, each hitting just over a fifth of their attempts from the floor. Dk managed 34 offensive rebounds in the bailgame. “I don’t believe that I have ever been in a game where I have seen that .stat," Mohn said. 'lhe two wins put thc Panthers at 6 4 over­ all this season. DK is 2-3 in thc SAC Valley. upon moving forward." The DK boys will be homc for their next two ballgames, a SAC Valley contest with with Schoolcraft Friday night and a SAC cross over against Saugatuck Friday. -■'-■■a/ Rfig The Trojans’ lone stunt group in round three lifts flyer Ava Phillips off the mat during Friday evening's Thornapple Kellogg Invitational in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) three scores of the meet. Portage Northern scored a 220.80 in round one. 205.40 in round two and 287.10 in round three, Viking boys split pair | of tight GLAC contests The Lakewood varsity boys’ basketball team was bested for the first time since mid-Dccembcr Tuesdayfalling 65-62 to vis­ iting Leslie. The loss drops lhe Vikings to 2-2 in the Greater Lansing Activities Conference and 3-5 overall. They will be on lhe road at Stockbridge Friday. Leslie only hit five three-pointers all game, but three of those came in lhe fourth quarter as lhe Blackhawks fought off the Vikings. Leslie had held a lead of 37-28 at lhe half. Lakewood rallied in the second half, out­ scoring the Blackhawks 17-9 in the third quarter. Bryant Maklcy led Lakewood with 20 points, scoring 14 in the second half. Jacob Elenbaas finished with 18 points and Jayce Cusack 15 for the Vikings. Leslie had four guys in double-figures, led by Ayden Rulan’s 16 points. Nathan Beachey had 15 points. Tristan Feighner finished with 11 points and Lucas McDaniel ten. Thp Blackhawks improved to 4-1 in lhe GLAC with the win, and are now 7-2 overall. The Vikings had just scored a big 47-40 win over visiting Olivet last Friday. Lakewood held an advantage throughout much of the second half after a back-and-forth first half with the Eagles. Olivet raced out to a 16-6 lead in the opening quarter, but t^e Vikings put together a 21-5 surge in the sec­ ond to lead by six at the half. Maklcy had 18 points in thc win. Elenbaas finished with nine, Cusack eight and Denpy Sauers chipped in seven points. Olivet had five guys with at least six points, led by nine from Cam Webb. Olivet fell to 1-4 in the GLAC with the loss SAXON SPORTS SHORTS JV Boys’ Basketball The Saxon JV boys’ basketball team was bested 59-47 by Pennfield Tuesday. John Tcllkamp had nine points for the Saxons, TJ Russell 11 and Hayden Long 12. The Saxons beat Jackson Northwest 45-37 last Thursday. Tcllkamp had eight points, Ashton Benson nine and Russell had a gamehigh 20 points in lhe victory. Freshmen Boys’ Basketball The Hastings freshmen boys’ basketball team scored a 38-35 win over visiting Pennfield Tuesday. After trailing much of the game, lhe Saxons pulled even with less than a minute to play. Cole McKenna hit a threc-pQintcr at t|K. buzz. cr to give the Saxons the three-point win. Layton Eastman had 14 pojnts anj njnc rebounds for the Saxons. The Saxons bested Jackson Northwest 54-37 last Thursday. w,lh McKenna leading the way with 13 points and Tyier Morris add­ ing ten. Zander Forbes had nine points and Eastman contributed eight points and njnc rebounds. JV Giris’ <>4skt.lbaj| The Hastings JV PW basketball team corned a 50-22 win over Pennfield in Battle Creek Tuesday. Bri Barnes led the Saxuns wilh I5 p^. She was one ofd eipnc Saxons to score. Barnes, Chelsea Ertner andi Madison Peltengill led the Saxons in rebounding Thc Saxons suffcivd a tOllgh 29 a( Jackson Northwest la*1 1 ’’Ursday Maddie Miller A"n’&>glish were Uy <leiensive conlributoi’the SilX0Ils in5, he Mount.es while and Ka). led their leam olicnsivViyJV Boy* Sling Die Hastings JV bo^ ho^ its match wilh Jackson Parma Western Tuesday 285 to 15. Shaun Pennington rolled an impressive 192 for lhe Saxons and won his two match-play contests. Kyler Madden and Tyler Sue won two match-play points as well for Hastings, with Austin Fenstcmaker earning one ahd Christian Stacy one and a half. * The Hastings boys won both Baker games with lhe Panthers, earning scores of 158 and 162 in the two contests. ? PICTURE SPECIAL. Bring in your old photos or pictures you want reproduced and save. 1351 N M-43 - Hwy., Hastings, Ml 49058 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00 - 5:30 �M 2020 — Has,,nqS BannGr M ■ LCTK scores seven goals in final two periods against EK Brett Bremer Sports Editor Drew Klomparcns snapped n 1-1 tic with East Kentwood nt Kentwcxxl Icc Arena six minutes into the second period Tuesday for Lowell/Cflledonia/Thornapple Kellogg (LCTK). Il was all LCTK after that in their first Baum Division match-up of the season with tl»c Falcons as it went on to an 8-1 win. 1 It was the second victor) in three games for the LCTK boys who knocked off Kcnowa Hills 3-2 nt Kentwood Ice Arena Friday before a rough 4-1 Baum Division loss to East Grand Rapids at Patterson Ice Center Saturday. The Falcons were limited to just ten shots Tliesday night. Dylan Olsen and John Kotarski had two goals each in lhe win over East Kentwood for I-CTK. Brendan Clarke, Alex Skibinski and Wade Fridley bad one goal and one assist each. Nick Lockhart and Bruce Langenburg had two assists each. Spencer Guppy, Massimo Picvione, Christian Smith, Andrew Davis and Colin Clairmont had one assist each. Tommy Near made nine saves in net for LCTK. Fridley put the LCTK team in the lead six and half minutes into the contest, with a power play goal that was helped by an assist from Clarke. Il was thc first of three power play goals for IXTK in lhe contest. Last weekend started better than it ended for LCTK. The team presented the West Michigan Special Hockey Association with a check for $735 after its fundraiser during Friday night’s non-conference game with Kenowa Hills. LCTK skated lo its one-goal victory getting goals from Austin Douma, Guppy and Owen Carpenter. LCTK built a 3-0 lead in the con­ test, wilh thc Knights finally pulling back within a goal in the final minute. Garrett Walker made 29 saves in net for LCTK. Things didn’t sinOoth!y Saturday m a 4-1 loss lo host Easl ~ nd Rapids. Fridley scored thc |one goal for LCTK on a power play, getting assiM< from Nick I>ockhart and Clarke and a nice screen in front of the net from teammate Dylan Ol-*n- l°mrny Ncar made 30 saves in for UCTK in the loss to the Pioneers. ‘ LCTK turned the nlJCk over too many limes as it attempted to clear it* defensive end of the ice, giving East Grand Rapids somc cxtcndcd possession. Even with the Pioneers controlling the play, die contest was only one-goal game after one period. EGR got a goaj from Will Zinser with seven minutes to play jn the opening period, off assists from Charlie Fcc and Stuursma, lo take the leadThe Pioneers canted two minutes of 5-on-3 lime after a couple of penalties four minutes into the second period, and Stuursma powered his team to a 2-0 advantage. Near Brendan Clarke pushes forward with the puck as East Grand Rapids’ Ben Darooge gives chase during their contest Saturday afternoon at Patterson Ice Center in Grand Rapids. (Photo by Brett Bremer) saved a couple shots from Stuursma in the first 20 seconds of lhe advantage, one from between lhe circles and another from the top of the right circle. A third shot, from the cen­ ter of lhe right circle, found a hole to get through Near for a 2-0 Pioneer lead with 12:23 lo play in the period. Nathan Milanowski and Riley Sikkenga were credited with assists. Moments after thc Pioneers’ long power play ended, but before Guppy could get into the play from the bench.Ted Campbell scored to put the Pioneers up 3-0 with 10:09 left in thc period. Sikkenga managed to slide the puck across the front of thc net from right to left, where Campbell who knocked it past a diving Near whose mask was sent flying as he lunged across his crease. Milanowski, who also earned an assist on Campbell’s goal, scored the final goal for lhe Pioneers a minute and a half into the third period. DK wrestlers outscore ©Sappers by 30 points Loweli;Caledonia<Thomapple Kellogg teammates Massimo Piccione (left) and Dylan Olsen (right) keep aneye on East Grand Rapids’ Nathan Milanowski as he moves the puck in the offensive zone during the second period of their Batri Division match at Patterson Ice Center Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Delton Kellogg varsity wrestling team picked up a Southwestern Athletic Conference win at Martin last Wednesday, besting lhe host Clippers 54-24. Every' contested bout ended in a pin in the dual, with the Panthers getting six-point wins from Chase Nevins at 130 pounds. Vmnie Quick at 135, Hunter Belew at 215 and Caden Ferris at 285. Hunter Antolovich, Jayden Oms, Pascale Houssenainc. Matthias Homolla and Alan Rogers had forfeit wins for DK as well. The Panthers also bested Lakeside Academy 72-6, getting five forfeit wins and pins from Oms (125 pounds), Nevins (130), Bow Arms (135), Houssenaine (145), Homolla (160), Rogers (171) and Ferris (215). The Delton Kellogg wrestlers are sched­ uled to travel to Coloma for duals with the Comets and Watervliet Wednesday (Jan. 29). The Panthers were slated to host Lawton and Galesburg-Augusta on Parents’ Night at DKHS last night. WELCOMING NEW PATENTS Exceptional Care Close to Home Increasing your access to exceptional health care, close to home is a priority for Spectrum Health. Our local providers are not just experts in their field; they are also a part of your community. • Same day appointments • Schedule online or call Expanded morning and evening hours to better meet your needs. Spectrum Health Pennock Spectrum Health Pennock Family Medicine - Gun Lake 12851 W. M179 Highway Family, Internal & Pediatric Medicine - Hastings Wayland, Ml 49348 1108 W. State Street, Suite 3 877.377.7322 Hastings, Ml 49058 Jamie McCartney# MD Adam Mitchell, DO Rebecca Eckert, FNP Andrew Stanley, DO Caledonia ■ Caledonia Gun Lake Gun Lake Maty Yakoby, MD Andrew Mepham, PA-C Hastings Middleville 269.945.0922 Spectrum Health Medical Group Family Medicine - Caledonia Spectrum Health Pennock 9090 S. Rodgers Court, Suite A Family Medicine - Middleville Caledonia, Ml 49316 490 Edward Street 616.891.0422 Middleville, Ml 49333 269.795.4434 Anthony, FNP Hastings © Spectrum r Health Pennock __________________ _ _______ _ __ __ ___________ ___ _ -■"> 7s T Online Scheduling | Expanded hours | findadoctor.SpeCtrumhealth.org i Middleville � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-01-30.pdf 30b5c3dc536250083878ac04ec6244d1 PDF Text Text Resurgence happening in sninH towns See Story on Page 3 See Editorifi1 °n Page 4 Study pays off in win over Redhawks See Story on Page 16 ■UNII Commissioners seek COA, jail strategies 5 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 VOLUME 167, No. 5 PRICE 75C Judge says inmate numbers will drop; so should size of jail Rebecca Pierce Editor When county officials consider the size of the jail, they need to consider bail/bond reform - or else the jail they propose is going to be too big. f That advice comes from Barry County Judge Michael Schipper, who’s aware of changes coming soon that will have a direct impact on inmate numbers here. But county commissioners haven't spoken with Schipper, nor were they aware 7\iesday that these reforms are imminent. A bipartisan coalition of lawmakers has been pushing for changes in Michigan’s bail system, reforms they say will save taxpayers money and free poor people awaiting trial. • 7'hc Book of Revelation is fdled with After those reforms have been enacted, mysterious signs, strange beasts, confus­ significantly fewer inmates will be in the ing numbers, and prophecies. Barry County Jail, Schipper said. Hastings Sevcnth-Day Adventist Much scrutiny has been given to the deteri­ Church w ill host a free seminar beginning orating jail and the potential size of a replace­ tomorrow. Jan. 31, exploring the truth and ment facility. A community dialogue took hope that can be found in this often-mis­ place at Thomapple Valley Church last week understood book of the Bible. to discuss possible options for fixing or Pastor Jeff Dowell will present a Bible replacing the jail. seminar. “Discovering .prophecy . . w As for jail population considerations. Revelation, beginning at 7 p.m. in the Schipper. the judge who is handling most Hastings Seventh-day Adventist criminal matters, is the one sending people to Judge Michael Schipper handles the Community Hall. jail. criminal caseload in Barry County. (File The series will continue each “No one has asked me,” he said. photo) Wednesday al 7 p.m.. starting Feb. 5. Should they? Everyone is welcome and the series is free. llie Hastings Sevcnth-Day Adventist Community Hall 4t 888 Terry Lane, Hastings, off of Star School Rond. More information is available by call­ ing 269-804-9959. Hastings church hosting Revelation seminar .re Hastings bands performing next week Hastings Middle and High school bands will present their pre-festival con­ certs next week. The concerts serve as a way to formally perform before the annu­ al festival. The four bands will perform two sepa­ rate nights, one each from the middle school and high school each evening. 7'hc high school symphonic band and eighth grade band will perform Tuesday, Feb. 4. < TTic high school concert band and sev­ enth grade band will play Wednesday, Feb. 5. Both concerts will begin at 7 p.m. at the performing arts center. 520 W. South St. Hastings will host the District 10 Michigan Band and Orchestra Association Festival Feb. 26 at the performing arts . cenler. 3 6FWC to meet Feb. 7 4 Two Chevrolet Silverado pickups collided head-on around 2:45 p.m. Tuesday on M-37 south of Hastings. (Barry County Sheriff's Office photo) . Hastings mssm killed m head-on collision Tay lor Owens Staff Writer A. 49-year-old Hastings man died after a head-on collision on M-37 near Whiskey Run Drive TTuesday afternoon. Barry’ County sheriff’s deputies said Keith Steams was traveling north in a Chevrolet Silverado around 2:45 p.m. when his vehicle crossed the centerline and struck another Silverado. Steams was pronounced dead at the scene. The occupants of the southbound vehicle, a 20-year-dld Dowling woman and an approxi­ mately 4-year-old child were taken by ambu­ lance loan area hospital. Tire crash remains under investigation. Sheriff Dar Leaf said Wednesday that no intoxicants were found on the scene, aid road conditions did not appear to be a factor. I With the inmate numbers Nevins provided. Schipper estimated that, once reforms enacted, the county jail population would typ; ically be at around 50 inmates. “There’s no way in the world that we need a jail for more than 100,” he said. “I’m not-a spender, particularly when I’m responsible for someone else’s money. ... We ought Io find the most cost-effective way to do it.” - . • With the need to house fewer inmates, ha added, the cost of a solution should come down significandy. .. And. when space needs drop, it provides possible solutions that might not have been realistic under a larger jail scenario. “If we’re going to end up with a jail popu­ lation of 50 to 60 people, it’s significant because that may modify what they’re doing,” Schipper said. “They could use existing space — maybe they could use the existing FOC building. It definitely gives more options when you’re looking at building a jail that holds 50 instead of 100.” The county should consider every option, including retrofitting existing space. He even mentioned the vacant Kmart property. “I’m a frugal person. Clearly, something needs to be done. ...Why wouldn’t we look at every option? Get the honest number and find the cheapest way to get it done.” Middleville man faces federal (charges in bank robbery Greg Chandler Staff Writer A 55-year-old Yankee Springs Township man is facing federal charges in connection with the November 2019 robbery of the Chemical Bank branch in Middleville. Gilbert Chrispin Noel Jr. was arraigned Jan. 24 in U.S. District Court in Grand Rapids on three counts of bank robbery and ordered held without bond by U.S. Magistrate Judge Ray Kent. In addition to the charges resulting from the Middleville bank holdup, Noel also is accused of robbing two Lake Michigan Credit Union branches, one in Wyoming and one in Byron Township, last year. According to an indictment handed down by a federal grand jury on Jan. 16, Noel is accused of stealing $3,922 from the Chemical Bank at 303 Arlington St. on Nov. 26, 2019. The indictment also claims he. robbed the Lake Michigan Credit Union at 2636 44th St. SW in Wyoming Feb. 14 of ( last year, taking $4,645, and the Lake Michigan Credit Union at 675 68th St. Sty in Byron Township June 11, taking $ 13,922. The federal charges were Filed after Noel was interviewed by an FBI agent on Dec. 17,2019. court records show. *. A not guilty plea to the three charges was entered by Noel’s attorney, David Kaczor. If convicted, Noel could be sentenced to up Jo7 20 years in prison and be fined up as much as $250,000, Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin Lane said. ’ A second detention hearing was sched* uled for 10 a.m. today in U.S. District Court, See ROBBERY, page 9 Hastings native nominated for Grammys G^grravndCr worldly” to describe his experience attending the 62nd annual Grammy Awards in'Los igh School CONCOO0 . The next meeting of the GFWC- | Hastings Women’s Club will be Friday, J . Feb. 7, at the Commission on Aging. 320.7 , W Woodhiwn Ave, Hastings. ’ The meeting will include a presentation j by the Family Support Center of Barry J. • County. 77ie nonprofit organization is,i . dedicated to strengthening families an(L£ parents with the goal of raising strong, safe and healthy children. Staff aims to prevent child abuse, ensure safety, elimi­ nate all forms of neglect, and provide •, education and guidance for abused/ / neglected children and at-risk parents. i Tlie meeting will begin at noon, with)’ lunch and fellowship al 1 pan. . J The General Federation of Women’s Clubs is a women’s organization dedicat­ ed to community improvement byLf. enhancing the lives of others through volunteer service. Monthly, meetings fca-Ot hire speakers presenting local voluniecT^ information and topics tltat impact our • community. Visitors and new members arc wel- ■. come. Reservations and more information can be obtained by calling club president, Joann Logan. 269-945-9782. -» “Well, I don't know what stage they’re at; I have no idea how far along this is,” he said. “But you think they would want to know.” Schipper said the judges sometimes hear what’s going on as far as legislative changes in the law before the county board does — and bail bond reform is one example. “You’d think the commissioners would want my input,” Schipper said, “but that’s up to them. Maybe they think the jail population [figuresi are enough." Inmate numbers are closely monitored. Barry County Sheriff’s Lt. Pete Nevins, the jail administrator, keeps track. Tuesday, he reported that the jail currently has 74 inmates; 25 of whom have been sentenced to serve time in jail, two are awaiting transfer to a state prison, and 47 are awaiting pre-trials or arraignments or aren’t able to post bond. The deteriorating facility is a problem, he said. “1 don’t think we can continue having peo­ ple safely in this facility for the next 10, 15 years from now,” Nevins said. “The best out­ come for us is a new facility for staff and inmates to be secure.” Schipper agreed. "I’m very pro having a jail fix,” the judge said. “Clearly, something needs to be done but it’s not building a jail for 120 people. If they build a new jail, it should be much small­ er.” Prevail, afthe 62n^Znoua?Grammy Aw^k in \ of h,s band- 1 received two Grammy nominations in the rock/moM An9r« one f^^?ay' Tbe band and one for best metal performance. In this nhotn are banri^1 rock album Menoian, Brian BurKheiser. Gabe HelguS,^^ft S'eVe page J®'EfiC Vanlerbe'«he and PfOducer ^ler Sm$. (Pft010 from I ^XeboS graduate, attended the awards with his band, I Prevail, which received two Grammy nomi­ nations - one for best rock album for their recent release. “Trauma,” and one for best metal performance for their song. “Bow Down.” Bowman plays rhythm guitar and provides background vocals for the bands which is based in the Detroit suburb of Rochester Hills. . “It’s so cool, to be able to say this for the rest of your life that you were nominated for a Grammy,” Bowman said in a phone interview with The Banner Wednesday. I Prevail lost out for the best rock album award to Cage the Elephant, which won for its album "Social Cues.” while 7bol won the best metal performance Grammy for its song “7empcst.” “'Fool is one of my favorite bands. I’m not even mad about losing to them ” Bowman said. ; Bowman joined I Prevail in 2014 alter the original rhythm guitarist left the band. Growing up in Hastings. Bowman was involved with choir :md other musical pro­ grams in local schools. As a senior at Hastings High School, he played the lead in the school musical production of "Footloose.” ■ “When 1 graduated, the one (mock elec­ tion) award I wanted to win was ‘Most likely to win a Grammy.’ I didn’t get that,” he said. ' Bowman's parents, Rod and Marcia, live in Hastings. I Prevail is getting ready to go on a fiveweek tour of Europe, and later this year will open for Papa Roach and Five Finger Death Punch on their North American tour, Bowman said. 2008 Hastings High School graduate Dylan Bowman is rhythm guitarist and background vocalist for the melal group I Prevail, which was nominated for two Grammy Awards. Bowman attended the annual ceremony on Sunday in Los Angeles. �Wastewater treatment plant upgrades on the IMU. VamlerLawn Dour VanderLaan Contributing Writer Acknowledging thc immensity o< the $8 million tentative contract approved M°"da> for- long-awaited improvements al the city s wastewater treatment plant Hast.ngs c.ty council members were Mill gtddy in anlrcrpalion of the sounds they expect to hear from a fully functional and efficient muntctpal water ‘^Commissioner Jim Cary’s question of project manager Dennis Benoit was. When will wc hear the first flush? Benoit, of Grand Rapids-bnsed Hubbell. Roth & Clark Inc., replied that the construc­ tion period likely will be 18 months though, with proper functioning of upgraded equip­ ment in a new headworks building, that could be reduced to 15 months. The shorter timeline would place project completion, Benoit esti­ mated , at mid-summer 2021. ’ Benoit was at Monday s meeting to report on Msaled bids opened Jan. 22 from five Michigan contractors for the project and to recommend that Grand River Construction Inc. of Hudsonville be awarded the contract based on a low bid of $8,187,700. • “This is a contract for construction only," City Manager Jerry Czarnecki informed coun­ cil* members. “and it’s a tentative contract because at our next meeting we’ll come up ’with final project funding. We’ll have our bond counsel here to set bonding, and every­ thing then will be set in place. We’ll be right on track to get things done." . On Oct. 29.2019, thc council approved an intent to issue $11 million in bonds for the Jwaslewaler treatment plant upgrade. Financing will be made available through the Stale Revolving Fund, a loan program administered by lhe Michigan Finance Authority through lhe state’s Clean Water Fund. The time to voeuro to. financing did aller .he project schedule, Benoit said. “From a timing standpoint, we are proba­ bly a little behind because of the decision to pursue the state financing,” Benoit, a senior associate at HRC, said. “We had planned to start construction in spring 2019. nine months ago, and thc shift slowed us up a bit. ‘ The delay. Czarnecki said, will pay off in thc financial flexibility that comes with thc state’s assistance. . . “Thc up side to thc State Revolving Fund is that it’s a draw-down program," he explained. "We pull out money ns we need it, and if we pull out less, we’re not on the hook for the rest." Council member John Resscguie won­ dered why what appeared to be an extra $50,000 was included in the construction costs for a fourth pump when the city uses only three to convey water from three wells to the water treatment plant. “It’s to provide redundancy and reliabili­ ty," Benoit said, citing a requirement from thc state department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy. "We’re set up with three today, but a fourth one is available if you have to take one out for service. That way, you don t have to rent or lease another one during that service time," a situation the city has experi­ enced in the past. Cary also had questions about Grand River Construction, thc bid winner, question­ ing if HRC, as project manager, had worked with the firm in the past. “They arc a very experienced contractor and have done some very big projects, Benoit said. “They’rc just finishing a big proj­ ect in Grand Rapids.’’ Council member Bill Redman inquired about the use of local labor on the project, to which Benoit reported that, “very likely, we’ll J, P« l*al unH*’ ^ labor will be . agreement on (hat. did attend." , . Ching p,M reports and member Don Smith mcnl,onC^r ’ n < going to be ^^ousunds of gallons of water per day” improvements planned JS- '*"'7 from a sewer system] fr°m uround lhc P^nl rather than the water being used now that you’re pumping fn>ni wells. ^aI water will now be rtpla^.” . The council approved tcnU1,\ve con­ tract award by a 7.9 vote with council mem­ ber Therese Maupin-M°°rc and Brenda McNabb-Stange not in attendance. HRC also was on the bidding side in addi­ tional action taken by the council Monday. As the lowest of four bidders, at $10,780, for design and preparation of contract documents for the Rutland Township Special Assessment District Sidewalk and Drainage Passage proj­ ect, HRC will not only be lhc lcad Planner in sidewalk construction along State Street, but will also be negotiating a tricky passage over a creek near the intersection of Stale Street and Cook Road. “We ran into some hiccups crossing the creek." Czarnecki told council members. "By saying ‘Yes’ to this. HRC will get a plan and pricing together then come back with an assessment proposal." The initiative was also approved on a 7-0 vote. The Crosley station wagon was intentionally designed to i prosiev comoadoors of retail stores that already sold small appliances made by the eras y p« ny. The vehicle also was light enough that it often was picked up sters. (Gilmore Car Museum photo) Gilmore showcasing station wagons at auto show Hastings officials share 2019 highlights Doug VanderLaan Contributing Writer As part of their customary' monthly reports. Police Chief Jeff Pratt, City Clerk/Treasurcr Jane Saurman. and Community Development Director Dan King provided reviews and highlights of the 2019 calendar year Monday during the city council meeting. • Pratt said he felt his department “made great strides with getting to know the commu­ nity a little better and allowing the community io know us a little better.” Re also termed 2018 a “year in transition” imd 2019 as the year in which the department was able to rebuild, now staffed by nine of the •14 officers holding less than two years of service. With the coming hire of a 15th officer, the department will be composed of 66 per­ pent having less than two years other • “It is exciting to see the excitement the younger and less experienced officers bring to our department," Pratt said. “This also gives the deputy chief and me a chance to mold the newer officers into the type of officer we want at the Hastings Police Department." • Saurman cited the move to add supervision of the utility meter reader to the utility billing clerk’s position as a key benefit to the prog­ ress of her department. Also included as ini­ tiatives modified or implemented the past year were a purchase card policy, an ethics and conflict-of-interest policy, cash-handling procedures and new election laws. “Every year is a busy year in the finance department," Saurman said. "Many of the tasks are the details that help the city accom­ plish its goals ... We are excited to sec what’s ahead in 2020." Counted as successes on which he’d like to continue helping to build, King cited the Bany-Roubaix bicycle race, which attracted more than 3,600 competitors on its 11 th anni­ versary in April 2019, and has already reached its enrollment limit for this year’s race; the planning commission’s master plan update expected in April; the Blue Zones Activate program initiated in October and ongoing activities to take place throughout 2020; the sale and construction planning for the vacant former Moose r 11 ’Lodge site on Michigan Avenue; and the Hastings Live summer con­ cert series which experienced record atten­ dance of over 10,000 spectators. In other business, the council: -Voted (with Therese Maupin-Moore and Brenda McNabb-Stange absent) to amend the city code to reduce the zoning board of appeals from six to five members. -Approved a grant administrator agreement for the rental rehab project at 118 E. Court St. with Marilyn Smith of Smith Housing Consulting LLC. Compensation will not exceed a $20,000 grant provided by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. -Approved a request to hold die annual Very Barry Event in Tyden Park June 6. -Approved a request from die YMCA for use ball fields at Bob King and Fish Hatchery parks for spring/summer 2020 league use. -Viewed a Blue Zones presentation by Allison Troyer Wiswell. -Approved a request from the Hastings Kiwanis and Rotary clubs to sell beer and wine al the Thomapple Plaza during the 2020 season. Redman cast as dissenting vote. -Reappointed Clint Neil to the local devel­ opment financing authority. -Appointed Maggie Nedbalek and Jill Withcy to the NatureArea Board. -Authorized the cty manager to sign a let­ ter of understanding ktwecn the city and the Thomapple Arts Cqncil, formalizing past cooperative working Arrangements. -Scheduled a works hen for Feb. 10 at 6 p.m. to discuss DAS/small cell wireless com­ munication policies and procedures. -Moved into closed session to “consider material exemp/ from discussion or disclosure by state or federal statute." The state Open Meetings Actdictates that a closed session is allowed to discuss property purchases or transactions/personnel matters, or collective bargaining negotiations, but any action on the issue that it discussed during thd closed ses­ sion must be taken during open session. No action was taken. I City council sets 2020 goals Doug VanderLaan Contributing Writer At their budget workshop preceding Monday’s regular meeting, Hastings city council members spent time reviewing the council’s five goals from last year and then deciding they’re all good for the new year, too. • “I don’t see how something that was important last year wouldn’t be important this year,’’ council member Bill Redman said in response to “swapping out’* one or more of last year’s top five priorities for some of the eight listed on a secondary, or “back burner,’’ list. “It is the City’s intent to accomplish the tasks described in the goals to the fullest extent possible,” read the outline City Manager Jerry Czarnecki presented to council members. “However, economic limitations or even reductions in the resources available to the City from various funding sources, such as State revenue sharing, may develop, preventing the City from fully achieving the prescribed goals." The five goals the council chose for staff focus last year were to: . - Implement an infrastructure improvement plan to address the city’s infrastructure systems. - Utilize the city’s parks and recreation plan to address improvements in the parks system. - Actively seek funding to address street improvements. - Address the pension and otlier post­ employment benefits program liabilities. - Address the replacement of aging fire department equipment. Czarnecki pointed out the progress made in each of the five areas, suggesting the council may wish to prioritize others, such as wastewater treatment plant updates; large project planning and financing; options to fund an emergency services facility; completion of a five-year master plan; development of a new public relations program; continued implementation of the bicycle master plan; establishment of metrics to measure growth and areas of improvement. “We have an IT problem and I see no mention of that,’’ council member Al Jarvis said, referring to the city’s information technology system that, al die council’s Jan. 14 meeting, was termed “end of life.’’ See us for all of your • • • • Photo processing needs Specials on double prints Wedding packages Reprints 1351 N M-43 - Hwy Hastings, Ml 491)58 269.945.9105 “W< have to replace 32 computers. How are we gang to do that - on a 10-computer basis over the next three years?” That possibility was quickly addressed by City Clerk/Treasurcr Jane Saurman. "Uni! the hardware infrastructure is up to run Windows 10, our door is open to thousands of vruscs," she said. “I think it’s our fault,” Redman said. “The transitions we’ve had on this council have earned little to be done.” ‘We don’t need a goal,” Jarvis said’ “T*1’8 is jist something we have to do.” A common concent for council members was the need for more st^ improvements, while understanding that state and grant money dedicated to parks as part of Goal 2 cannot be reallocated to road construction and improvement. "I just wish the public could be here to hear tlfcl," Redman said “How do you explain that? The more money we can spend on roads tbs year, the better this council is going to look to the public " "We need to put more emphasis on large project planning and financing (one of the secondary goals established last year)Mayor Dave Tossava said “because how can you do any of the top fiVc’ . without large project planning and financin .,. • f Council member, elected «> n*“n ,e“-h of l«st year’s five It)pe‘^,s and .0 add large Project planning facing to that Im for Buick offered three levels of its Estate Wagon In 1957: The Special Series, the Riviera hardtop and this, the top-of-the-line Century Caballero, Spanish for “horse­ man." (Gilmore Car Museum photo) North America’s largest auto museum, the Gilmore Car Museum, will again showcase an exhibit of historic vehicles during the Michigan International Auto.Show at DeVos Place in Grand Rapids. With Detroit’s North American International Auto Show no longer in January, the Grand Rapids event, which is open to the public today, Jan. 30 and runs through Sunday, Feb. 2, is Michigan’s only winter new-auto show. The Gilmore Car Museum has been part of die Grand Rapids event for the past 17 years and has doubled its exhibit space. This weekend’s show will feature antique station wagons - utilitarian, comical, nostalgic and stunning. As the auto industry continues to move away from the production of passenger sedans and shifting to larger SUVs and crossovers, it may be time to review where such vehicles have come. The Gilmore display is in the Main Entrance Gallery of De Vos Hall. “Were it not for the station wagon, which allowed consumers to have it all - utility, style and drivability - minivans, SUVs and even crossovers might not enjoy the popularity they do today," pop culture writer Charles Moss wrote in 2014 for The Atlantic regarding the significance of station wagons. The museum display also highlights the largest expansion in its more than half-century history: A 25j000-square-fool addition that nods to American muscle cars coming in 2021. A uniquely 1970s auto dealership building will be the newest representative on the museum’s historic “dealership row’’ which includes Franklin, Ford, Cadillac and Lincoln. One of the rarest muscle cars in existence - a station wagon that served as an Indianapolis 500 pace car- also has been given a prominent position within museum’s display at the auto show. Station wagons can trace their history back to the lime of horse and buggy when long-distance travel was done by train. A horse-drawn hack, or wagon, was used to transport passengers, luggage and cargo to and from train depots, aka railroad stations, introducing the terms “depot hack." and “station wagon." In the early days of the automobile, some would forego their horse and attach the once horse-drawn wagon’s body onto a car frame. Customers soon began purchasing bare car chassis and hiring companies to customize depot hack bodies, which is how the 1919 Ford Model T was constructed, one of which will be on display al the auto show. In 1923, the short-lived Star Motors was the first to offer a factory-built station wagon. Ford Motor Company, producer of the world’s best-selling car at the time, didn’t begin to offer a factory station wagon until 1929. The museum’s exhibit al the auto show includes: 1919 Ford Model T Depot Hack 1934 Ford Station Wagon 1948 Packard Four-Door Station Sedan 1948 Crosley 1950 Chevrolet Styleline Deluxe Station Wagon 1955 Chevrolet Nomad Wagon 1956 Pontiac Star Chief Safari Wagon 1957 Buick Century Caballero Wagon 1972 Hurst/Oldsmobile Indy 500 Vista Cruiser 1989 Chevrolet Caprice Custom Estate Wagon Admission to the auto show $12 for adults and $5 for children 6-14. Hours arc 11 ajn -9:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m.-5 pjn. Sunday. r More about the Michigan International Auto Show can be found at showspan.com/ MAS/homc. Jnfonnation on the Gilmore Car Museum is available online at GilmoreCarMuseum. org. Fire destroys Orangeville Township home, investigation underway Greg Chandler Staff Writer Investigators are trying to determine the cause of a fire that destroyed an Orangeville Township home Monday night. Firefighters were called to the dwelling on UFountaine Drive, near Marsh Road, about 7:20 p m., after neighbors reported what thev thought was an explosion inside the n-si (fence. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads .............. * theHhome .Wev ’hoo,i"8 out the back wall of arrived Or 8 a.40 fett *hcn fire(i«h,etS Ri'bbunXV‘"e T°WnShiP Fire Chief Ribblc slid*" E°ln8 f°r qui,c a while insMe" Wayl'and'Y'.nV^c'’ <?Vc other departments - and Delton Spnn8s-Martin. Prairieville Orangeville in h CaUcd in to assist on the see >Vf ‘n8-*he bla2e- They were The home r nbou!,lVe hours. Ribble said. WHS in the I OUt SUUe» an<{ no 006 couple of^™CnCtUl.thc ,ilne 01 thc f,rc-A separate fTOln s^Ph,:r<k " ere in a kennel Ribblc said. and were unhurt, Orangeville WiU work with ^used the fire, Ribble^id. Wh* �Thu Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 30, 2020 i Pagn 7 seek COA, jail strategies number of county commissioners that have been in office since '06, you would think that something would have been done by now.... ‘"rhe only thing that's been done is we're spending money on studies on all kinds of things like this, but nothing has been done.” Brown mentioned that it seemed strange to him that TowerPinkster has been hired before and is back for a second time to advise thc county on the same facilities. “The study, and I don’t know if TowcrPinkster did it, was a circular situation, that MSU was to move out of Courts and Law Building, which they did; Family and Children Services was supposed to move into that building, which it didn’t: the health depart­ ment was supposed to move into the old Hastings City Hall and thc COA was sup­ posed to move into lhe health department. As Brown said this, some people in the audience were reciting it along with him. • “We spent close to $75,000 to have that done, to give us these options and we still haven’t done it,” he said. “So we’re going to hire these people again to tell us what we should do. And I’m not so sure we’re going to do it. / "So thc only thing I’m saying tonight is: Stop and think xibout what we haven’t done; how much talk we’ve been doing for thc last 14 years and why hasn’t something changed?” Before making a decision, commissioners indicated that they intend to have more comJ munity forums in locations around thc county in an effort to get more input from residents. • Where the master plan stands TowerPinkster senior project manager Eric Hackman, on left, listens as Hastings Charter Township Supe^,sojJifn Brown com­ ments at a community forum to discuss the jail and Commission on Aging facilities that took place on Jan. 22 a mornapple Valley Church. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) Rebecca Pierce Editor Barry’ County commissioners assessed their progress on a strategic plan, talking for nearly four hours with a hired "neutral facilitator,” in a Committee of the Whole session Tuesday afternoon. The session, w hich was expected to contin­ ue into Wednesday evening for about three hours, was intended to identify and prioritize thc issues the seven commissioners hope lo accomplish during the remainder of their terms, all of which will end this year. Not only do these commissioners face a decision on whether to seek re-election this year, they must decide whether lo ask voters to approve a millage request to help pay for jail and/or Commission on Aging facility repair or replacement. As Chairwoman Heather Wing has urged the group, time is running out. They have to commit lo a course of action in March. Ballot language has to go to the county clerk by April 17. Wing observed that board tends to be reac­ tive, not proactive, about issues facing the county and encouraged thc adoption of a for­ ward-thinking vision for the.future. , So. earlier Un’s,month, Wmg proposed hir­ ing Nancy Ohio of Midland for $2,500, the board approved it, and County Administrator Michael Brown made the arrangements. “Il would be nice for us to have a common set of goals lo look at.” Wing told fellow com­ missioners on Jan. 7 when she pitched the idea. “...I don’t want us to lose sight of stuff during this TowerPinkster process.” The "TowerPinkster process” is how the board has chosen to address concerns regard­ ing lhe jail and Commission on Aging facili­ ties. A second community dialogue session, on thc evening of Wednesday. Jan. 22. at Thomapplc Valley Church, was attended by less than 60 residents, about half the number that attended lhe first community forum. As commissioners reflected Tuesday about last week’s gathering, they expressed frustra- ' ’ would be a new 25,000--squan;-foot greenfield Nancy Ohio of Midland, acting as a “neutral facilitator," works with the Barry County commissioners this week to help them focus on on top priorities for 2020 (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) lion that more residents aren’t attending these forums and how best to reach them. ^‘My concern is who’s not showing up,” Commissioner Ben Geiger remarked. , Commissioner,Vivian Conner agreed- "We keep hearing that we need to educate people, but we’re not getting lhe people to educate.’’ Commissioners also made reference to “millage fatigue” particularly in the Hastings school district after a series of failed millage requests over the past several years. That fatigue could have an impact on any proposed levy that lhe county might seek. The Jan. 22 forum, which started with a presentation by TowerPinkster senior project manager Eric Hackman about the current slate of the jail and the COA buildings, offered different options, costs and ways to finance those costs. The lowest cost option of renovating and adding to the existing COA structure involves about $3.78 million for a 20,000-square-foot structure to the highest cost project, which ‘J'*' 1 building for $833 . Meanwhile, the jail/sheriff’s office, with costs depending on number of beds and square footage and site chosen, would range from a low of $21.8 million for □ (108-bed jail) project utilizing the existing site to $285 million for thc largest facility (160-bed jail) on a new greenfield site. “You didn’t fall off your chairs,”’ he remarked, "that’s a good sign.” Then Hackman offered a primer in how millage elections and the sale of bonds work. He indicated it would be conceivable, during thc course of the tax levy, that the property (ax could go down. That elicited a negative reaction from a several audience members who replied that tax levies never go down; they just increase. "You’re just trying to deceive us," Terry Greenfield said to Hackman. Hackman said he disagreed with Greenfield’s comments, then said. “I’m not going to argue with you,” The forum included small group sessions and audience comments written on notecards that Hackman collects! to compile into a report later for the cginpissioners. . , . Qne question .fro^n? audience yya^how long these projects wcdl lake to accomplish. Hackman estimated to three years, depending on weather conch lions. Hastings Charter Township Supervisor Jim Brown stood up it the end of'the meeting and offered these cotnments: \ “We’ve been talking about this since 2006,” he pointed out "It’s been 14 \ cars. I know that we spent ^lose to a quarter ritilhon dollars on studies And have still dope nothing. Sarcastically I could say yjhy should we stop now? Let’s just keep talking and It’ll save u.s money. But that’s stupid. We should be doing something on one of these.” Brown expressed the opinion that, as a project, the jail should probably take prece­ dence because health and safety should be lhe priority, even though the COA is important. "Last, but not least, when you look al the ' Whole Child Inc. opens its doors Center. Ammerman (center right) said she will be partnering with other non-prolits and schools across Wait Michimn m*! a vZhops to train educators and first responders, as well as kids. (Photo ^^2 . *° "0S' The original master plan for the county that was prepared by TowerPinkster recommend-. ed lhe following: ,, "The strategic plans in place by Barry County aim to make service safer and more acces­ sible to residents, users and county workers in existing facilities, the county was in need of a facilities master plan that reflects such initiatives while maximizing tire use of existing buildings and respecting the historic nature of lhe existing facilities. TowerPinkster conduct in-depth facility assessments and met with various stakeholders and community leaders ta. gain an understanding of opportunities and challenges of thc existing facilities. , The following initiatives were developed and recommended: ,. „ 1. Improvements in the circuit court building. Holding and security screening. The ; existing holding area in the circuit court building was renovated approximately 25 , year> ago; however, it still lacked holding areas for male and female inmates; also a location within lhe building where lhe judge and person in custody must share the . same path of ravel. Recommendations resolve these safety and security issues. . t 2. Renovate the Community Room building (Hastings Library) for MSU ,..r Extension, Community Room and County Information Technology Division. Recommendations included moving the MSU Extension programs out of thc Courts and Law Building and into the historic Hastings Library building which was vacant. ’Hie relocation would maximize thc cost-effective use of facilities and improve safe­ ty and security, 3. Addition and Renovation to the Animal Shelter. The existing facility presented challenges in safety and handling income animals as well as caring for those current- •'> ly housed. A small addition was recommend which would alleviate stressed areas. and allow adoptable cats to be in a more pleasant environment. 4. New sheriff department and jail. The existing sheriff department and jail was not adequate for its current use as lhe building was originally designed as a holding facility. Recommendations solve safety and security challenges. 5. Construct new Commission on Aging building. The existing building was orig- ” inally designed for a different purpose. Over time, additions and renovation had been made; however, due to building deficiencies, it was recommended dial a new facility •’ be constructed. The new 20,000 square foot building would be on a single story, a •’ better fit for lhe neighborhood site, and incorporate universal design principles. ’“ 6. Court consolidation at Courts and Law Building. To provide a maximum level of safely and security, as well as providing all county court functions under one roof, a two-story’ addition, with a lower level secured parking area were recommended. •’ The county completed initiatives I and 2 with funds on hand. Initiative 3 was delayed and deferred through the use of efficiencies. The scope of initiative 6 no longer includes the addition lo the Courts and Law Building. The county is in the architectural design phase ‘ of moving the Friend of the Court from its current location in a standalone building lo space ‘ previously occupied by MSU Extension (which is now located in lhe Tyden Center buildirig) Also included in this initiative is the creation of offices for lhe newly established’ Public Defender’s Office, using unfinished space in thc basement. This initiative will be completed with funds on hand. The two remaining initiatives, 4 and 5, arc in progress with facilitation by TowerPinkster architects and engineers. MIR LAW aneRNEY ; The Most Important Estate Planning Documents Making sure you have lhe right estate planning documents is one of the simplest ways to have a positive impact on your family’s future. Proper planning ensures that your wishes will be followed and that your family will have less to worry about after you are gone. Estate planning does not need lo be difficult; a few- documents can make a big difference. Here are thc legal documents, in order of priority, that everyone should have in place: • Durable Power of Attorney. This appoints one or more people to act for you on financial and legal matters in the event of your incapacity. Without it, if you become disabled or even unable to manage your aftairs for a period of time, your finances could become disordered and your bills not paid, and this would create a greater burden on your family. They might have to go to court to seek the appointment of a conservator, w hich takes lime and money, all of which can be avoided through a simple document. • Patient Advocate Directive. Simitar lo a durable power of attorney, a Patient Advocate Directive appoints an agent to make health care decisions for you when you can't do so for yourself, ’ whether permanently or temporarily. Again, without this document in place, your family members might be forced to go to court to be appointed guardian. Include a medicu! directive to guide j your agent in making decisions that best match your Wishes. • Will, Your will says who will get your property after your death. However, its \ increasingly irrelevant for this purpose ' aS most property passes outside ot probate through joint ownership, ' ■ beneficiary designations, and crush. Yet your will is Ui 11 .important for iwo oilier Reasons. Fiftt, B you have minor children, it permits yon to name their guardians in the event you are not there; to continue your parental role. Second^ it allows you to pick your personal representative (also called an executor or executrix) to take care of everything having to do with your estate, including distributing your possessions, paying your final bills, filing your final tax' return, and closing out your accounts. It's best that you choose who serves in. this role. • Revocable Trust. A revocable trust is the "gold standard” in estate planning. It pennits the person or people you name to manage your financial affairs for you. as well as to avoid probate. You can name one or more people to serve as co-trustec with you so that you can work together on your finances. This allows them to seamlessly take over in the event of your incapacity. Revocable trusts are not as simple as thc prior documents because there are many options for how they can be structured and what happens with your property alter your death. Drawing a trust is more complicated, but also more nuanced, giving you more say about what happens to your assets. By executing an estate plan, you can save your family a great deal of strife, difficulty;; and cost during an already lough lime. If you’d like to learn more, please contact our office for an appointment. < Robert J. Longstreet Longstreet Elder Law & Estate Planning P.C. 607 North Broadway Hastings. Michigan 49058 269-945-3495 > < �-m •'nro -- The Hastings Banner P.»pe 4 - Thursday. January 30, u_____________ — Did you SCC? To the least of these Getting Twitchy And you This is Twitch, our resident pot squirrel, who> <s / h motivated) he climbs a greased polo Charter Township . ■ - Hamngs .phicCcom. Plea* inch* 4905S. or ennui ne-'J •ua. MUn. information. Do you remember? Richard Fluke, (back, from left) direc­ tor of Pennock Hospital, presents Wilda Fuhr with a pin in recognition of her con­ tribution of more than 3,000 hours as a Banner volunteer escort at Pennock Hospital. Jan. 17, 1974 The volunteer escorts provide a vital, personal service to patients throughout .the week. Other volunteers with many hours of service include Kathryn Ferris, who received a 1.500-hour pin: Mmet Stanley, who received a 1,000-hour pin; Margaret Nash, who received Honor volunteers Have you a 500-hour pin; and (front) Frances.John:xk, who earned a 500-hour pin. Jan Smith also received a,500-hour pin but is not in the photograph. Director Fluke praised their devotion and dedication to the volunteer service and dedared it added greatly to the welfare of patients, aS well as relieving other personnel for die work of caring for 0e sick. Esfcprt volunteers elected officers are: President, BettyJorgensen: secretary-trea­ surer. Kathryn Ferris: scheduling chairwoman^ Rosemary Raber, with Marietta Feldpausch.as co-chair; Candy Striper chairwoman. Jan Remley, with Medina Hodges as co-chair. met? Karla Fates has a passion for people of all ages, whether helping senior citizens who have dementia or seeking out fun play­ grounds for her young grandchildren. In her career as CEO of Care Well Services Southwest, which is the Region 3B Area Agency on Aging, the Delton resident’s focus is promoting health, independence and choice for seniors, people with disabilities and caregivers. , She oversees thc organization’s budget and approximately 60 employees plus writes grams to keep everything in motion, “We serve Barry' and Calhoun counties, but then we have a large contract that serves eight counties going over to lhe lakeshore. “I’m more of a hands-on CEO,” said Fales, who has served in that position since 2008. “I’m involved in a lot of the communily initiatives - elder abuse prevention and dementia are two of my big areas.” She is chair the Elder Abuse Prevention Coalition in Calhoun County, is on the work group in Barry County and facilitates the Dementia Friendly Communities efforts in both counties. She works cooperatively with the Barry County Commission on Aging and its execu­ tive director Tammy Pennington. The Area Agency on Aging helps fund programs such as Meals on Wheels, respite care, adult day care, senior centers and wellness programs. “We also have a very large care manage­ ment program that helps individuals remain in their home who otherwise would be eligi­ ble to be in a nursing facility.” I ales said. On the homefront, the former Karla Mapts and her husband, Gary, an X-ray and quality technician at an area factory, have been mar­ ried 35 years. Both arc Delton Kellogg alum­ ni. Gary graduating in 1983 and Karla in 1984. “We started dating in May [in my senior year| and got married in October.” she said. The couple have three adult children: Jaimic, 34, .Marin, 32, and Patrick, 27; and three grandsons: Isaac. Parker and Owen. Two dogs. Benny and Henry, are a special part of lhe Fales’ family, too. While raising the children, Karla worked, home-schooled the kids and earned several became j program manager and in 2007 1 left there f<y seven months lobe lhe manager of CalhouA County Senior Millage. Then I came lack ... as the CEO.” Fales said. In the midst of those jobs, she earned a bachebr’s degree from Spring Arbor. A mas­ ter’s degree in health care administration was awarded to her from Western Governors University through a distance learning pro­ gram in 2010. Fales calls her involvement in community thvaDLT a good outlet for her- She most recently was in two productions with thc Thornapplc Players and has been active in Calhoun County, including -with l*,e Athens Community Theater and the Mosaic •Storytelling Showcase. She also served on the board and helped a lot with the growth and development o*f Delton Amateur Karla Fales degrees. Alter high school,.she attended Argubright Business College and worked as a clerk. She aKo taught WIC nutrition education classes at the Calhoun County Health Department and was a secretary for the Department of Community Mental Health. During employ ment with the. Kellogg Foundation where she worked to determine if people were eligible tor grants. Fairs completed an associate's degree in business at Davenport L’nivcihit\ She stayed home with her kids until from 1996 to 2001. She home-schooled, coached volleyball and basketball and lauL’ht clashes that included other home-schooled children. Fales went to work as a secretary nt Community Action Agency in Battle Creek in 2001. She later discovered she had a talent lor writing grants and became the dircctoi ol grants management. In July o| 2*Xb, she .started working as an executive assistant al lhe Area Agency on Aging. "Ihrough <i long process of things. I Community Theater. “I taught drama for the home-school group, so it’s always been an interest,” she s;«d. “I’ve done a lot of community coaching.” said Fales, who was on the high school varsoftball team for f<)Ur years. ”l‘ve been a volunteer coach for bnseball. softball, volley­ ball and basketball I think I did soccer for about 12 seconds,1* she quipped K.arla also Uas a Girl Scout le;ia,r far about eight years. She calls vo|llnle int, al Faith United Methodist Church H. ixqmn her “primary thing.” She serve. On lhe church’s Housing < omnmtec and the Omreaeh Committee and sings <x-casion:d|y <lui*n;, Kxorsjiip services. She s mvo|\V(| - 0fOUp called Mlles lo: Mcmone ,. u}licl ‘n^aule Creek sup^^’’^venient.p^ ^ingandresatreh for dementia. 4* "A lol of my ltInc . around my grandsons and <;,n-fcstinn things ^'aid-Shc j -oh.uK time ,* ;and scrap Honking. n>r her in I1C| h ol stmoi cni/cris «. (11 enbJi.ce the lives ,,I1C to community 1Cr’1’? " it- Kurin Hies c°nt/ni/ef/ next page When authors Deborah and James Fallows stopped by Calvin University in Grand Rapids two weeks ago to talk about their book “Our Towns: A 100.000 Mile Journey into the Heart of America.” they could have been talking to an audience in Hastings, Michigan - and they were. Thanks to a closed-circuit feed playing in lhe second-floor community room at Hastings Public Library, a sizable group of listeners got to hear this husband/wife team talk about their five years assembling a portrait of small-town America and who are now spreading the word of lhe civic and economic reinventions happening there. The couple was part of the annual January Series at Calvin during which 15 renowned speakers, authors and leading thinkers shared their incisive life perspectives in a scries of one-hour presentations over 20 days, a series Calvin likes to call a “free liberal arts education.” Calvin has been hosting the lectures for 33 years. The Hastings Public Library has been sharing in them for the past eight. As Deb and James Fallows talked. I couldn’t have been more struck by how much their work mirrored Hastings. For that mailer, anyone who attended even some of the lectures could have marveled at not only the common themes that wended through the presentations of many of the speakers, but even more by how those perceptions applied so directly to our lives in Hastings and Barry County. James Fallows talked about today’s sharp contrast between discourse at the national and the local level. National concerns and politics have polarized America; live news pounces on dissension, acrimony and tragedy. A quiet but powerful resurgence is happening in local communities, however. It was once the pattern of young people to leave their small towns for life in the big city. Today, lhe country is witnessing what the couple calls a "talent arbitrage” in which people are exchanging their lives and jobs in bigger cities for small towns with less congestion and lower costs while working from home or in positions closer to home. Much of that migration has focused on small-town downtowns where people are looking for art, cuisine and entertainment within walking distances of where they live. Even civic engagement, which once atrophied from a vibrant time of Boy Scout troops, bowling leagues and church potluck dinners, is returning. Look around, it’s happening in Barry County where young people from around the country are being recruited to work for our top companies, where downtowns like Hastings are experiencing a resurgence of affordable housing within walking distance of vibrant entertainment venues like Thomapple Plaza and ever-diversifying food options at award-winning restaurants and night spots. We’re even seeing greater civic involvement with volunteer initiatives like food co-ops, bicycle and walking trail construction and events like the BarryRoubaix bicycle race that arc putting Barry County on destination maps. January' Series speakers also challenged us with life-examining thoughts - no matter where we live. 1 was especially convinced by Karen Gonzalez, an immigrant advocate who works with World Relief, an organization that serves immigrants and refugees. She related an ancient belief from her native Guatemala. “People in Guatemala believe that when you die, you die three times,” said Gonzalez, author of “The God Who Sees: Immigrants, the Bible, and the Journey to Belong.” “You die first when you take your last breath. You die again when you are buried in the ground. Correction reGonMl«yn.usl have been comparing ° h faremv Everett, founder and nou-s with [he Texas Hunger executive Ba..|or University professor Initiative. decades ministering hits spent more hantwo , iamwtsdie fact that in a nation of plenty, ™ in eight American children struggle with hunger, and more than 13 million children live in food-insecure homes. Fverett talked about the legac.es generations leave. As a child he grew up in a segregationist and racist South. His parents, though his father was a mmtster and railed against the prejudice, are still linked forever to a shameful legacy. Everett's question to his January Scries audience was, will we be the comfortable generation remembered for “the bitter pipe of justice” that we allowed to drip on 40 million Americans who live below the poverty line, 13 million of whom are children, and 4.5 million of whom are seniors. Everett tied his call to Matthew 25 in which Jesus told his disciples, “what you do for the least of these, you do for me.” That’s how Detroit Free Press columnist Mitch Albom responded 10 years ago when his heart wrenched at the television accounts of the devastating earthquake in Haiti. After arranging a visit to witness the tragedy, Albom found himself the new caretaker of an orphanage which, today, he visits for one week every month. Among the children who captured his heart was Chika, a 7-year-old orphaned girl who had developed a deadly brain disorder and wras adopted by Albom and his wife. Janine. The story is told in Album’s new book “Finding Chika.” "I eventually became her transportation, carry ing her everywhere because she could no longer walk,” Albom said in his tearfilled delivery' at Calvin. “And that’s our job today, to carry our children.” So how- do we want to be remembered in Barry County? We have a wonderful, resurgent and energetic small-town hometown for which we’re becoming ever­ more well known. But statistics show we do have people in our county w ho are homeless and hungry, as well as children who arc orphaned or live in single-parent households. If what was heard from many of lhe leading thinkers in our culture at Calvin University this month, we have a big job to do, one we cannot shrink from -- if. indeed, we want to forever be remembered as a community that made a difference. At the start of that mission, though, we can take pride in knowing that our community is willing to engage in one. “Gaining knowledge is the first step in making a difference,” January Series Director Kristi Potter said. “This work starts with listening, even to those with whom we may disagree.” Hastings Public Library is the community asset that offered us the opportunity to listen for the past month, and it can accept with pride the praise from Deborah Fallows in the “Our Towns" presentation two weeks ago. The public library is now the institution that steps up to lhe wants and needs of its community.” Hastings Public Library* continues its support of thc messages presented during the January* Series. Books written by the speakers - from this year and in previous years - are available for loan as well as audio/video tapes of presentations not excluded by contract from reproduction. Doug VanderLaan, Guest Columnist ’tXC° T.'y rcsidems for heal,h Apartment A Jan. 23 Letter to thc Editor from Jerry Greenfield of Hastings headlined "Is health department top-heavy?” contained a typo­ graphical error in the cost per person paid by What do you cXv’h11”’’ Sen'f,KC Should rcad: ■'lonia County has a population of 64291. and thev are paying 93 cents per person. Barry CoumJ S7 39™“?“’" »f 60,586 and we !<rc Pa.' ing per person. think? Here s your chance to take pan in an interactive public opttuon poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website. www.HastingsBanner coin. Results will be tabulated and reported alone with a new question the following week Last week: The Barry County Board of Commissioner hosted a community forum on Wednesday I ln "i . Thornapple Valley Church to discuss a kore„n.a ’ n* age election to address whether to fix or reol•> ' jail anti Commission on Aging buildines fc 'C attend the forum? Yes 66G No 33% *h,:..,hir<l 'ime W"Cn "° °"e r ‘ For this week: A report released last week by Education Trust M'dwesl listed Michigan statedr ttlS bo,,orn *ivo X °L ec’uitat>le fundvou th50?00' d's,ric,s- Do state d ‘1S ,ime ,or lhe fund%n rreVamp i,s Sch0Ql lunding formula? £1 Yes □ No �NeW S-1’ resur*acing Work planned *or M-37 Greg Chandler Staff Writ< r Nearly a decade after l inkbeincr/Crane Road connected with M-37 north Middleville. the Michigan Department ol Transportatton has approved installation of • trorttc signal at the angled intersection ' EtTorts to divert industrial traffic fnvm downtown Middleville by connectin'' the two roads began in 2003. f inally, jn ->oin bids were sought lor lhe project that included two bridges over the Thomapplc River The road opened with fanfare in the fall of ->()11 Since then however, the village anti residents have asked the state to install a traffic signal ’() improve safety and reduce backups. Those *U,Ve denied,until nowr ’’k’ge officials learned of MDO7 ‘s plans ’ a meeting with the state agency last week. John Richard, spokesman for MDOT's »rand Region office in Grand Rapids, cited a vtc.idy increase in traffic as the rationale for ’he new signal. I he schedule for installation has yet to be 1 vtermined. but likely by the end of this year or beginning of next," Richard said. Also in thc works is resurfacing of a • -milc-long stretch of M-37 from the Barry/ Kent County line to thc southern edge of lhe v illage limits, according io village and MDOT officials. .Andeer ^”anc \vr,.i.. . 1 “Ti's expecW* '■> COn’Pl«cd by Labor m^T%^ng project is estimated at '",dCr S2 Richard Si” According 10 .'^edTi,M^CC"t ,,afr,c volume count cond^1^' .MOOT in 2018. 15331 vehicles W'c'. Usc M-37 between the: county line »nd ,1,C •M'<Meville village limits daily. Continued from previous page Something about me most people don’t know: The fact that I was adopted and raised [Write Us A Letter The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: •All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire" letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mailiJulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; U.S. mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Gary Peters, Democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510­ 2202 phone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room 720, 110 Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 233­ 9150. President's comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Banner Denoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Pu&isfutdby Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 News and press releases: nows@j-adgraphics com •Advertising: ad$@fadgraphics.com Frederic Jacobs publisher & CEO Hank Schuuring CFO • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT ■ C assHied irts aocrpttxl Mcndiy rveugh Friday B-XUm to 5 00 p.m ScoitOrnmen Ty Greenfield Mke Gilmore Chns SHverman _____ Jenme Yonker Subscription Rates: $45 per year in Barry County $j0 per year in adjoining counties .NEWSROOM• Rebecca Pierce Kathy Maurer/CWW' W Biefl Bremer (Spots &'“>') Taytor Owens Greg Chand,er year elsewhere _____ postmaster al PO Box 1H6 Ml 49058 0163 CiKK Postage ui 49O5fl an only child. A song I Hke: “Take Me Out to the Ballpark." Growing up I pretty much grew up behind the bleachers at Bailey Park because my dad was a baseball coach, a player and umpire. My grandpa loved baseball. At my grandpa’s funeral they played "Take Me Out to the Ballpark” and at my dad’s [funeral). My kids know' they have to play it at mine. That song always brings back good memories ... A person I would like to meet: Gandhi. I’d love to sit with him and have a conversa­ tion. Best advice ever received: In high school I was definitely never nt a loss for words ... One time. 1 was running down the hallway in the business department and Mrs. Graber caught me by the shoulders and stopped me and said ‘I want you to use your gift of gab for good Hither than evil.’... She got me involved in doing prepared speaking for the Business and Office Education Club. I have used that skill ... all through my life. It’s gotten me lots of places I wouldn’t be able to go, and I’ve been able to do a lot of good things with that, including going all the way to qualifying for nationals. It opened up opportunities and changed thc trajectory, gave me something to focus on. A book I would recommend: I am partic­ ularly fond of ’’To Kill a Mockingbird." It’s one of my favorites- Everyone should read it or to listen to it ...There’s much to learn. It’s one you should read about every decade. Favorite teachers: Three had the biggest impact on me. Mr, Wo]x mainly because my dad worked second shift and so he could never be involve^ in anything. Mr. Woj gave me a lot of self confidence und helped me see things I was good at am| helped me be involved in tnings. In high school, Mrs. Graber was a favorite. MsABrand was the most challenging teacher I had^Shc taught me how to write. 1 never had an issue w riting term papets or even my mister’s thesis because she was tough. . Favorite vacation: I like any place that has history, so whether it’s museums in Washington D.C. or going to historical places. Anyplace where my kids and family are. My best dinner: Crab legs and anything seafood. ■ A memorable time in childhood; When I was about five, we ended up going to a Titusville, Pennsylvania. My dad saii| we are going to meet your grandfather. I didn’t know I had one of them ... While we were there I got tliis little green tractor. One of my best adult memories: Going to Nashville. Tennessee with my dad nq long before he died. I am most content when: Sitting nt home and the kids arc coming over or writing any­ thing. First jobs: I mowed lawns, cleaned houses and drove older adults in my neighborhaxl. What I bought first with my own money: Music tapes or albums from the Fatnily Christian Store or probably tickets to a movie. I liked music a lol. I had an 8-track in my first car. Best part of my career: ... When we arc able to help or fi* s°mething, helping and making people’s lives better. When I was a kid, I wanted to be: A sports journalist or a writer. , A favorite Bible verse; Part of Jeremiah 29:11 - "For I know the plans I have for you" and it stops there because j don’t neej to know the rest. Something on m) )Ucket list; I would like to see thc Grand Canyon someday. Biggest Influence in my nft.; Richard Mapes. I Sl’’ outdoor kid and a daddy’s girl. He died m 201 ] froni cancer Favorite singed' «>lhtng Broadway. See Saturday’s Re “er for u feature arti­ cle about Karla Each week, who makes Barry Lo a person >■ shine. Do you know someone who because of volunteer f Personality, for the stories he or she e 1 or any other teason? Send infont^j, ^'sroom, Hastings Banner, 1351 NHostings, Ml 49058; or email J'a(lgrt)riti('s.com. Investiture ceremony for the new judge i The investiture ceremony for Barry County Judge Vicky Alspaugh of the EXth Judicial Circuit. Barry County Trial Court, will take place at 4 p.m. Friday in the county courthouse, 220 W. State St., in Hastings. Alspaugh, shown here at her desk Monday, took the oath of office administered by Judge William Doherty on Jan. 1. On Friday, the investiture ceremony will follow a tradition to formally install the jurist beforejidr peers and colleagues. For coverage of the event and an interview with the new judgO, see next Thursday’s Banner. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) _> ; Communities need locally owned. Enews organizations To the Editor: The ediiorial you published in lhe January edition of The Reminder was interesting and thought-provoking. Your company, along with others like yours, face increasing pressure to maintain financial stability under difficult circumstances. The way our citizens get the "news" is changing and rapidly, as you point out, going to electronic sources for informa­ tion. In some cases, lhe product of those sources tend to follow "Buzz news" or trun­ cated versions of the news. Every person interested in the world around them should have a variety of sources to get information. Reporters associated with nation­ al news broadcasters give information not available at the local level, but watching just one television network is no guarantee of get­ ting to the truth. Reading a newspaper such as the Grand Rapids Press, Lansing State Journal or Detroit News gives a reader a sense of the events in the legion, but The Reminder will tell the reader alwut what is going on in the community. All of these sources arc import­ ant. To make a point. I want to tell you about two events in lhe past few weeks: The Hastings Public Library was the host for "The January Series" which has been sponsored for many years by Calvin University and the library is connected by telecast. One of those sessions recently featured James and Deborah Fallows. Jim is a writer for The Atlantic and Deb is a • professional linguist. They have recently writ­ ten a book about their travels by small plhnfj to hundreds of small towns in this country. Their experience has shown them that there are new trends developing toward a new inter­ est in education in skilled trades, local infnvstructure, mentor programs, and good librar­ ies. They also made a point of stressing the importance of having a viable, independent local newspaper to help stitch the community together. Jim had one important caution about this: The local newspaper should be locally owned and not by an investment corporation of a venture capital company. ; The second event, also held at the Hastings library, was a presentation by Ann Compton who served as the White House reporter for 40 years with ABC. She had some interesting stories about covering multiple presidents and, in particular, the events surrounding 9Z11. She also stressed the importance of citi­ zens getting to several sources of news for information and agreed to the pro(x>sition that there is "fake news" out there and it is harJto get to the truth. She stressed the importance of the avail­ ability of a local newspaper in every commu­ nity. As a helpful hint in locating a Nourcc for national political news, she suggested w.wyy, rcaklejjpi?|jiii,‘.sA*pjn • Keep up the good work. Your newspaper is a real asset to the community. Fred Grasmap Wayland housing impact specialist Under the direction of the Program Director and Executive Director; the full-time Housing Impact Specialist will work directly with at-risk families in housing crisis situations. Through direct case management this person will help to identify the needs of individuals and families by connecting them with the appropriate community resources to achieve well-being and success. This position will include public speaking, data entry, grant and systems management, and continued community engagement with housing initiatives and programming. The ideal candidate will have experience with budgeting skills, event management, community relationship building, and will be1 able to work as a team for the benefit of our clients. Position will remain open until filled. Interested candidates can submit their resume in person to the Barry County United Way at 231 S. Broadway in Hastings. LIVE UNITED United Way D.:rry Cuurty UrMfx! St Vo>ur«<eer (WnU>r �no nnx)Has W Banner Page 6--Vhuisday. January 30'■■■-•- Worship a Togethe Obituaries '‘’^icdul^fHastings area churches Karen Frey__ Weekly sc for your conrenten f^u avaLilabte HASTINGS WOODGROVE BRETHREN ASSEMBLY CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCAJ 328 N. Jefferson Street. .Wonhip 10 «•”• provided. Pas"” Pc'v Adams, contact bib*6 OF GOD 1674 S. Stale Rd . Hasting'Ml 49058 Phone 269-945­ 2285. Sunday morning service time: 10 a.m. uith nursery and preschool available. 8609. FREEPORT BAPTIST CHURCH 380 Count} Line R -• Freeport, Ml 493-5. 760-1928. Pastor Ron. A rrad.donal st>le of wo-hjPno gimmicks, and fnendy people welcome you to worship at ’an old country church." Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Sunday Worship ‘11 a m. Sunday Evening 6 p in. Wednesday Bible Studs and Prayer 7p.m. Give us the pleasure of . meeting you! GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E M-79 Highway. Nashville. MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe. (517) 852­ 1783. Sunday service 10am. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. HASTINGS HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 2920 S. M-37 Hwy. (M-37 at M-79) Pastor Kim Melzer. Phone 269-945-4995. haslingshopeumc.org hastingshopeumefa gmail. com. IVe welcome YOU to join us on Sunday Mornings at 10:30 for worship! Find Us On Facebook! hastingshopeumc. CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel­ chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship lime 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273. Hastings, Ml 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website; www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 765. (comer of Milo Rd. &S. M-43). Delton. Ml 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11:30am, Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF HASTINGS Sharing Jesus with our community & the world! 405 N. M-37 Hwy.. Hastings. MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. www. f irHdiiiKiiliahlifUU. prg, 9 a.m. Classes and Gatherings for All ages; 9:45 a.m. Worship (Children's Worship Offered); 10:45 a.m. Coffee Fellow-ship; 11:15 a.m. Coffee Talk with Pastor Dan. Follow us on Facebook. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main. Woodland. Ml 48897 • (269) 367-4061. pastor Kathy Smith. Sunday to 7:30 pm. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES church. a Spirit-filled . Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange. Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd.. Nashville. Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616-731-5194. PLEASANTVIEW . FAMILY CHURCH , 2601 Lacey Road. Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor. Steve ' Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 • church phone. Sunday • Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday • School H a.m.; Sunday ' Evening Service 6 p.m.; . Bible Study & Prayer Time ; Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. MCCALLUM UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH 5505 Otis Lake Rd., Delton. MI 49046. Phone: 269-623­ 8226. New pastor - Jerald Jones. Sunday Service: Coffee 10:31-11:46; Nursery. Connection. Children’s ministry. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTIHA INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-795­ 2370 and thc rectory number is 269-948-9327. Our church website is www.samchurch. org. Wc arc part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. Worship 9:15 am COMMUNITY’ BAPTIST CHURCH 502 East Grand St.. Hastings. Pastor Ken Hale. Sunday School for adults and children 9:45 a.m.; Sunday Senice 11 a.m. Nursery provided. Call 269-945-9217. ebehastings. org. We arc a small church, but wc sene a mighty Lord. GREEN STREET UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W Green Sl, Hastings. MI 49058. Rev. Bryce Fcighner Office Phone: 269­ 945.9574. Email: office, greenslrcctumcte gmail.com. Sunday, Schedule - The Praise 9:30 a.m. ; The Word 10 a.m.; The Table 10:30 a.m. Nursery Care is available through age 4; PreK-Sth grade Sunday School 10 a.m.; Sunday School for Adults al 11 a.m. Upright Revolt Youth Ministry (6th-12th grades) 5:30-7:30 p.m. FREE Community Meal every Tuesday al 5 p.m. Refer lo Facebook for weather conditions. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30-8 p.m., AWANA (Children Kindergarten-5lh Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948­ 8004 for information on MITT (Mothers in Training Together). Sports Ministries. Quilting. Ladies Bible Study. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, Ml 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of Who jesus Is To The World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy., P.O. Box 8, Hastings. Telephone 269­ 945-9121. Email hikllmCL gmail.com- Website: www.hask Brian Teed, Student Ministries Director, Emma Miller, Wor­ ship Director, Martha Stoetze I. Sundays: Nursery and tod­ dler (birth through age 3) care provided. SUNDAY MORN­ ING FAMILY HOUR WEL­ COMES ALL AGES AND STAGES OF LIFE AT 9:30 a.m. Deep Blue, Loving God. Loving Neighbor Preschool age 3-5th Grade. Live: 6th-12th Grade. Adult Standard and Adult Elective classes. Coffee Talk: Fellowship Hall. Cookies at 10:05 a.m. Worship Sen ice: 10:30 a.m. & Children's Church age 4-4th grade dis­ missed during service. Youth Group at 6 p.m. 2nd Tuesday: Young Women's Small Group. 6 p.m. Wednesday: Women's Bible Study 6:30-7:30 p.m. KID'S CLUB: Feb. 5th-March 18th, 6:30-7:45 p.m. Thurs­ day: Adult Bible Study 10 a.m. For more information please contact the church or follow us on face book. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God's Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday ! Feb. 2 - Worship services at 8 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Nursery available both services. Souper Bowl Sunday Chili Cookoff after 2nd service; Worship Committee Mtg. following lunch. Feb. 3 Social Activities Mlg. 5 p.m. 1:30 p.m.; Council 6 p.m. Feb. 4 - Executive Mtg. 6 p.m. Pastor Ken Scheck 11. paslorken<£ grace-hastings, org. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings. 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, lax 269-945-2698. www.grace-hastings.org. Facebook: Grace Lutheran Church ELCA Hastings, ML This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Top winners in the recent National Geographic GeoBee. joined by teachers, are (from left) Steve Laubaugh. Zach Ramey, third place; Ally Herder, second place; Caleb Kilmer, first place; and teacher Shari Barker. (Photo provided) Sixth-grader wins middle school National Geographic GeoBee More than 550 students from Hastings Middle School participated in classroom geography bees, leading up to the school-lev­ el competition ol the National Geographic GeoBee Jan. 21. Fifty-eight students qualified for the final competition, and Caleb Kilmer, a sixth grader, won first place. Ally Herder, eighth grade, took second, and Zach Ramey, another eighth grader, finished in third place. Thc school-level competition is the first round in the annual National Geographic GeoBee. a competition designed to inspire and reward students’ curiosity about the world. Questions cox er not only geography, but also cultures, physical features, history’ and earth science. The National Geographic Society devel­ oped the GeoBee in 1989 in resfjonse to con­ cern about the lack of geographic knowledge among young people in the United States. Over more than three decades, 120 million students have learned about the world through participation in the GeoBec. School champions, including Caleb Kilmer, will take an online qualifying test; and up to 100 of thc top test scorers in each state will be eligible to compete in their state competitions. Winners of the state GcoBces receive an all-expenses-paid trip to National Geographic Society headquarters in Washington, D.C.. in May to participate in the national champion­ ship, competing for cash prizes, scholarships and an all-expenses-paid expedition lo the Galapagos Islands aboard the National Geographic Endeavour II. More information can be found at natgeobee.org. National Geographic also offers classroom resources, student experiences and profes­ sional development opportunities for educa­ tors. Hastings Midd|/ School has announced its honor roll for thc Second quarter of lhe 2019­ 20 school year. • Students carting all A and B grads for lhe quarter are nailed to the honor roll. Those with all /X gra/es qualify for the Principal’s List. / , Sixth grade > Principal’s List Anncmarie Allerding. Aden Armstrong. Nella Co^el, Ellie Cousins. Matthew Domcnico/Charlutte Drake. Bronson Elliott. Lauren Gee, Sienna Gunn. Riley Herron, Ethan Holman, Daniel Jensen, Carter Krzysik. Adriana Meyers, Jadalie Miller. Josalyn Russell. Viliam Shrubb IV. Matthew Shulls, BraydenThielen, Collin lossava, Odin Twiss. Angelini Waterman, Mazie Waterman and Gracie rVilson. Honor roll Aria Alexander, Kooper Argo, Seth Arnold, Gavyn Avila, Ashlyn Bailey, Carter Bell, Katherine Bercier. Olivia Bucher, Aiden Byle.baydcn Cappon, Hope Carley. Madison Chipman. Shiloh Crandall. Spencer Crozier, Coltqi Denton, Makayla Dillon, Kyle Echtinaw, Madison Elzinca. Anderson Forell, Madson Fortier, Olivia Goodrich, Sophia Greenfield, Tanner Hill. Ma7 JohnsonJacquelynn Johnston. Liam Kindel. Esther Kiii|.Natalee Klingc, Alexander Kohmescher, Isaak Lambert, Jaden Marble, Haley Merrick. Alahna Miller, Ava Noteboom. Amore Pummill, Aurora Pummill.Tyee Richardson, Shcalagh Rose. Carisa Rosenberger, Deagan Sanders, Rendell Shinault. Bayley Smith, Kyree Snider, Isabelle Stanton. Carleigh Stpnchouse, Hunter Tomlmson’ ^a*ac*n VjnEngen. Lucas Waterman and Lainey XXestworth. Seventh grade Zoe> Bcnnv-uXSfi«-’l:Kh:iel m"'’"’ Micah Johnson, Jonlllll .MilanowsM, Alyson Miller, Seih Pinle, Hr.„j,>n Sinimons: Solmes. Brooklyn Strickland. Victona lack and Melany Vargas. Tanner AllertinJ'^n Archer. Tminer Armstrong, Jett Bc' ‘ Mason Benton. Alibrie Billing, Bo*®’- la>'lor Casey, Alexia Cmtht Vinm” Pcnnison, Hannah DuBoi, k. H'kkema. I.ih^' nuiikclbcnier, Alex Fur">W- Henry. Jordan Huni “ <eba>tion Johnson, Danica Keeny k. !>lre- c.-nrington. Logan Keiby, Raehel’K?^1 boning. Kennedy 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 Friday, Jan. 24, 2020. . Kit was bom on June 3. 1947 in Battle Creek, the daughter of Robert and Mary' (Matthews) Frey. Kit was most recently a Hastings area resident after spending many years in the Lansing area. She was a 197Michigan Slate University graduate. Kit worked as a recreation coordinator tor Okemos Community Education for many years. She was a true recreation professional and excelled in organizing sports for all ages from the weewats (Kit’s term) to adults. Baseball was her passion and she took great delight in hosting Lansing Lugnut players in her home for many years. As a senior ciliz.en coordinator, she made everyone welcome at thc Meridian Senior Center. Kit enjoyed traveling - anywhere but particularly Mackinac Island where she often volunteered for lhe Labor Day Bridge Walk. Kit loved sports, especially the Detroit Tigers and Michigan State, and bled green and white for lhe Spartans. She truly enjoyed spending lime with family, extended family and her cat. Kit had a true passion for fife and never left a stone unturned. Kit is survived by her father, Robert Frey; brother, Kenneth (Roxanne) Frey; nieces and nephews, Michael Frey, Rob Frey, Ellie Westworth, Nichole Jones; many great nieces and nephews; many close friends; and former spouse, John Kuschell. She was preceded in death by her mother, Eighth grade Mary Frey in 2002. Principal’s List Kit’s family receiv'd friends on Monday, Mason Bailey. Lucy Barnard, Abigail Jan. 27, 2020 at the Williams-Gorcs Funeral Beemer, Dekota Blough. Kaylie Carl. Diego Home, Delton, where her funeral service Coipel, Lily Comcnsoli, Allison Kerby. was conducted with Pastor John Fulton from Madysen Kuestner, Natalie Minch, Kaitlyn Bedford Bible Church officiating. Burial Moore. Raegen Morrison. Aiden Morton, took place in Banfield Cemetery. Adeline Nickels. Charles Nickels, Abigail Please visit vvww.vvilliamsgoresfuncral. Peake, Luciana Pearlman. Isabelle Roosien, com to share a memory or to leave a Riley Shults, Reuben Solmes, Sophia Sunior condolence message for Kit’s family. and Olivia White. Honor roll Kampbell Andrews, Blake Barnum, Spencer Beerman. Phoebe Birchfield, David Botsford, Denver Brill,Zacharia Byle, Abigail Byykkonen. Kacey Campbell, Gavin Carey. Owen Carroll, Trey Casey, Hunter Cook. Peighlyn Cronk. Alydar Dico. Jordyn Downs, Lauren Drabik, Kimber Fenstemaker, Skylar Fenstemaker, Michael Foster. Logan Graham. Aden Haines, Alexander Haines, Anndriana Hall, Heath Hays. Isabella Hendershot, Alexandria Herder, David Jiles, Sarah Liehvar. Keegan Lindsey, Camilla Loss. Jarred Love, Jordcn Lyke, Olivia Meeker, Bailey Pennock, An online survey is being offered for the Evan Porter, Raedyn Rathbun, Ciarra Rea, public to help review and update Michigan’s Lila Rea, Kai Richardson. Alexie Roberts, Top 10 in 10 strategic education plan, the Aiden SaintAmour, Brennan Sensiba, William Michigan Department of Education announced Smalley, Ellie Smith. Lars Sorensen, Landon Tuesday. Steward. Paxson Strong, Vikasini Survi. “We’re asking the public to help shape Logan Taylor-Krebs, Lauren Taylor, Howard Michigan’s education focus,” Stale Teed. Landen Tom, Adrianne VanDenburg, Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice said in a Audrey Vcrtalka, Zane Warner and /Xydria press release. “It is iny expectation, and that Willard. of (he State Board of Education, that an Hastings Middle School releases honor roll JolX-e Gaskill, Ja|. 1‘ John Gustafson, Andrew Ilaine, \ .’"'u il.iwkins. Ixigan 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 Karen Sue “Kit” Frey, age 7_, away peacefully after a lengthy illness on ^ewjs, Deondn. lYeston Meece, Hayley Millet, '"""^Her.K>le M.^ank«gan Nicho|.,„ >nn?,.v Noin<- Iri,vls 0l|Ver, |-lijah ft"' AshU>) vcn Simmet, Alonha Sleight '!"‘>all- Vtiiehan. Alexya ya'Muez. ' *>ylan his White, Survey open on state education strategic plan HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Friday. Jan. 31 - preschool story time. 10:30-11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 3 - Quilting Passions, 10 a.m.-l p.m.; board of directors meeting, 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 4 - toddler time, 10:30-11 a.m.; Great Decisions: Foreign Affairs Discussions, 1-3; mahjong club, 5:30; chess club, 5:30 p.m. Ihutsday, Feb. 6 - Baby Cufd, 10 a.m.noon; Movie Memories and Milestones watches 1956 film starring Michel Ray. Rudolfo Hoyos Jr. and Elsa Cardenas, 5 p in. More information about these and other events i* available al lhe library or by calling. 269 945 4263. updated plan will be more streamlined and focused, and will have measures that align with thc goals to help us monitor progress toward becoming a top education state.” Since February 2016, the current strategic education plan for making Michigan a Top 10 education stale in 10 years has been the guiding document for Michigan’s education efforts. During lhe September 2019 State Board of Education meeting. Dr. Rice expressed the need to review and update that plan. The Top 10 in 10 plan is the states blueprint lo drive improvement in the education system lor Michigan’s children. I hat is why it is important, Dr. Rice said to get input and feedback from lhe public. Based on recent interviews with State Board of Education members, education stakeholders and partners, tribal partners and MDE stall potential goals were explored and are included within the survey for input. A strategic plan drives priorities, concentrates energy and resources, strengthens operations, and sets measures of success to ensure all stakeholders are working together toward common goals. ~ The survey will close Feb. 7. The link can T™ 1’rn m" *k' WCb'i,c- ■’•ivhigan.gov/ !“£ , ‘ °f ,hc “(xhteJ plan is pX <0 be presented to the State Board of Education in late spring. �ThHastings January 30 2020 i rvisimys Hanner nannin— —• Thursday. inuiduuy.www-j ■ p , 7 Reform aimed at reccing jail population i>. • * . . •’ dip iuL.,1 ,rh H*. 1U 'cm’ 1 short UrC ,Or While tA*» iH-’li a* sa-vs less ilia” a ^cri^n/(*Orni. ,?randnct,‘al>y a A coalition clvtri».'jkU?,Oj . • Michigan’s county u n niI mending the Mme reiP1 is recomshorten probation^. ? SUsPcnM”.n*infractions and mod rani CU' "K' CIV'for the., own n^.qU’1r."’!! ""ni,le* ,o PV things. ,nc*Weralion. among other Xm" I” “"P"^’^ analysis of local jail data. Among other things, research­ ers found that jail populations have soared w crime has faHen; black residents make up a disproportionate number of the incarcerated* am a quarter of those sent to jail have a senous mental illness; and jxdice choose to than 1X101, 0 fm m°rC °f!Cn than simply cilc Wc believe that this is a set of rccoinmen datrons that will make our criminal justice system more just, and help make sure that our county jail system is protecting public safety in the broadest possible sense,” Lt. Gov Gnrlin Gilchrist said. The Michigan Joint Task Force on Jail and Pretrial Incarceration was formed by an exec­ utive order from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer last spring to study Michigan’s jail system and recommend how to improve it. In the order. Whitmer referenced research dial indicates incarceration in many cases doesn’t increase public safety and can some­ times worsen it by exacerbating inmates’ mental health problems and uprooting them from jobs and communities. Whitmer directed the task force to seek out jail alternatives and to safely reduce jail admissions, lengths of slay and costs as it aligns with research. The nonpartisan, Philadelphia-based Pew Charitable Trusts worked w ith the group to collect and analyze local jail data to inform lhe recommendations along with public testi­ mony from across the stale. The task force approved the recommenda­ tions last Thursday. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel was the only member of the task force to withhold her support. Last week, she alistained from voting to support the report, saying it didn’t achieve thc “crucial balance” of pro­ tecting victims and communities’ interests. Nessel’s office declined to elaborate. “We can never lose sight of the impact that a crime has on the victims.” Nessel said. “While wc must strive for reform, those reforms must not be al the expense of those that the system is designed lo protect.” Michigan lawmakers will now choose wbclher to make anv ol the recommendations in’° ’"’,kv* *^ *” •->'1 a •become law: 1 Criminal jiixtice was one ol the lew topics of bipartisan agreement in 20IQ. when Republican and Democratic lawmakers passed legislation to increase the age of w ho is considered an adult in sentencing and bilb, to expand access to criminal record expunge­ ment. Research shows that jail detention before trial may temporarily stop people from committing more crimes, but also increases the likelihood people will re-offend after being sentenced. “We are going to be tackling many issues in 2020. but 1 think [Xiramount to all of them in importance is reforming our criminal justice system.” said Speaker of the House Ixe Chatfield ’hicsday. “We’re going to do the very best that we can to ensure {many of the recommendations} get enacted into law.” Here’s some of what the task force recom­ mended: Bar revoking driver’s licenses for issues unrelated lo driving The researchers found that driving without a valid license was thc third-most common reason for people to go to jail, largely because people can have their license suspended lor a wide-ranging list of reasons. In 2018 alone, nearly 358JDOO licenses were suspended for failure to appear in court or pay tines. Public testimony showed lhe group “the domino effect a suspended license can have on a person’s life, including making it harder for people to keep jobs. The task force recommended banning sus­ pending or revoking driver’s licenses as a punishment for everything except moving violations that affect safety, such as driving while intoxicated or fleeing a police officer. Keep most convicted of misdemeanors out of jail Most people sent to jail - rather than pris­ ons - are charged with misdemeanors. Pew researchers found. Punishments for low mis­ demeanors range from up lo 93 days in jail to up to one year. Home show full of ideas and answers this weekend 15Jtem buffet included with admission J-Ad News Service The annual Barry' Home Show, celebrating its 20th year Jan. 31 and Feb. 1, will bring together a variety of strategies and services that can jazz up. revamp and restore houses. And, to make it easy for attendees, it all lakes place at lhe Barry' Expo Center. “if you’re looking for a chance to address all your home needs under one roof and have some delicious barbecue, lhe Barry Home Show' is lhe perfect place to take the family fora fun-filled outing.’’Sandy Schondelmayer, event organizer, said. “Cold weather is the perfect lime lo schedule a kitchen renovation, a new roof installation or exterior home improvemenls." Highpoint Community Bank is sponsoring the annual home show. And Schondelmayer Bar-B-Q is promoting the show*, which will feature a 15-item buffet with salad bar included with a S5 adult admission to the show. Youngsters 14 and under gel in for free. “You can bring lhe whole family out to eat for the price of the adult admission lo thc home show.” . Here’s how Schondelmayer looks at it: Home improvement projects add value to people’s properties. Patronizing these local businesses to do thc work helps keep the local economy strong. So. (he home show is a great community combination, he said. A number of established area businesses have been returning to lhe since *l ,K‘£an 20 years ago. r The vendors represent a range of skills and expertise for services for both tns.de and ^Kide die home. The array of booths spread hro gh .be Expo Center will feature □ng and cooling companies, roofing and "T^V'mthrXwwin’fit.dinlor.nation Visitor'’ lix) Garden and hmdse"pens will answer questions and suggest solutions to problems. Vendors will offer demonstrations and display prixlucts people can try out. If landscaping issues are the cause of damp basement issues, that's an area addressed at lhe show. Dry basement specialists, waterproofing companies and gutter installation representatives also will be participating. Landlords, renters and business owners will find information about maintaining their properties, repairs and insurance coverage. Some renovation projects may be relev ant for retail and commercial buildings and business offices, as well. What’s the need? Pest control? Renovation after fire- or water-related damage? Energy­ efficient windows and doors? Roof replacement? Bathroom update? Fix a floor? Damaged driveway? The home show has these covered, too. “People can come and learn about different products available for thc projects they are doing or thinking about taking on. take their time and just enjoy the day,” Schondelmayer said. An advantage lo one-stop shop approach of lhe home show is the ability to ask questions of particular vendors, get specific information about thc project being considered and then do a cost comparison. It is a home show*, but it isn’t just for homeowners. Renters will find decorating ideas and ways to improve their living space Schondelmayer said the event provides a showcase of contractors and subcontractors in a one-stop shopping environment. “No need to run around town getting ideas and talking to various businesses” he said “Simply attend the Barry Home Show ‘and you buy local and speak with companies who o[K*rate right in your backyard.” Die 20th annual Barry Home Show will start Friday. Jan. 31, at 1(1 a.m. and run lo X p.m. Then Saturday. Feb. 1. it wHl »et underway at 10 a.m. and conclude at 6 The Barry Expo ('cuter is al 1350 N. 1 lighway. between Hastings and Middles il|e . . . probation periods; up to five years for felonies and two years for misdemeanors. However, thc first weeks and months of „ltle.>se tut"''"W Bridge; probation are thc biggest indicators of wheth­ make us h . hl. I‘.। slu’uld change lh;"S ho-e‘<; c.l ...... ’enteanorv er someone is likely to re-offend. Research also shows that alternative, community-based 'he h'» "’' j ttlIh ’ n'"’>it> service. punishments arc equally effective in reducing ‘"C he , 7 'hem out of . future violations fls jail lime. 0,"C.r rn'l’"1'”';, f"r''e "rote. The task force recommended lowering J:,il ,'n also ene^”1 cli"'i"aling lhc ,-n P min^'" .e ’ ?t,;- '->r ntisde- maximum probation to thc period of time when people are most likely lo violate it; ,,d I*"1"? ‘ r e ” of ,h:w eliminating or restricting courts' ability to mcaiiors a»<l' M.|ttr"-’incarcerate people on probation for technical violations such a< missing an appointment with a parole officer or failing to keep a job; standardizing policies for early discharge from probation; and requiring parole condi­ , ,sk h«ee »'iur'n™""k'"ll«l reducing tions not be overly burdensome. r of Ii>i")c'1,t cr""es overall bv X^^’o'ves' threats Divert people with mental health problems mp/hli’Safety -'hat aren't away from the criminal justice system Nearly a quarter of Michigan’s jail popula­ tion has a “serious mental illness,” research­ ers found. That number is even higher in rural areas, where there are fewer mental health Reseaich 'ho" ' 'I1':*J’?'’'’'" "ho are kept in services available. People with serious mental jail before their ma lhe likelihood illnesses also tended to stay in jail longer than that they'll plead Kt-coe a longer those without mental illnesses, even if they ...ntrnce. It . ।a ^Rntton before had similar charges. trial may temporarily people from comMany sheriffs also testified to the task force miuing more ennu- • H l>0 increases lhe that they were concerned about people who likelihood people ffend after being spend a long lime in jail oftentimes longer St Pcw^researehers also found that pretrial than lhe maximum allowable sentence for misdemeanors — just to be evaluated for detention and nioi’C) M varies wildly in competency to stand trial. Michigan county J^ example, bond The task force recommended making it lhe amounts for contnw substancc use ranged from 50 to S20JXX). The task force recommended a number of changes to the way people are detained before trial, including standardizing bond require­ ments (and only allowing (hem if the person poses a significant risk to others and is charged with a violent offense); requiring a J-Ad News Services per.-son be arraigned within 24 hours of arrest, Barry-Eaton District Health Department require hearings for people still detained 48 reported that the current risk in thc United hours after arraignment; and requiring people States from a recent outbreak of a new coro­ to be tried within 18 months of being arrested. navirus is low. Reduce jail time for some felonies The World Health Organization has not Those with felony charges or convictions declared lhe outbreak a global emergency at spend much more time in Michigan jails than this lime. those with misdemeanors, which is one of r\nd. as of Jan. 28. there were five cases in many contributing factors to high jail costs the United States anti no confirmed cases in and populations. Michigan. . Researchers at Pew found that Michigan Slate health officials arc saying lhe greater jails on average housed I6Xi00 people per day threat to Michigan residents is the flu - and in 2016, compared to 5.700 in 1975. despite it’s not too late lo gel a flu shot. crime rates being the lowest they ’ve been in More than 300 Michiganders have been more than 50 years. hospitalized for flu and flu-related symptoms Jails also account lor about a quarter of since Oct. I, and at lcast two children have county-level spending on public safely and died from the flu this season. the justice system, which is lhe third-largest spending category for Michigan counties. Here are some frequently asked questions One reason felony spend so much time in and general information about how to protect jail is a lack of guidnp;p.for courts oh how to yourself from corona virus - and the flu punish (hose convicrdl of certain felonies but who aren’t sent tonrFon. lhe task force con­ Q Am I at risk of getting the new corona­ cluded. , . virus? The task lore/ rccommchded creating a A. Centers for Disease Control and presumption th;if those senlciiced to certain Prevention repons the risk of getting lhe low-level felonies receive probation rather coronavirus is low to Americans at this time, than jail time. And reclassify ina punishments but is recommending to not travel to China if for common lew level felonies sq as to reduce it is not necessary. The State Department has lime spent in jail. ' issued a “Do not travel” advisory to Hubei Reform punishments for violatibg parole or Province.Travelers returning from the region probation \ are being screened for illness at the airport Parole and probation violations pre one of upon arrival to further prevent the spread of lhe lop reasons Michiganders arc shit lo jail, partially because slate law allows (for long Q. What can I do to prevent myself from ,be getting sick? A. CDC is recommending to only travel to Marriage\ I ,. China if it is absolutely necessary. Good handwashing hygiene is important in preventing lhe spread of coronavirus and other illnesses, such as the ilu. In general, if you are sick, there are things you can do to avoid spreading illness to others. These include: y!' '“**** 1 "* Dih in n* r Manage* TJ TJ-'-’ S; Broatlway, Hastings, MI 4905H 269-9*5-3252 • www.girrl».Kl,funcralh<>nic. <4>iiimuniltcs for So years - Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds - Avoid contact with others, especially jf you have a fever. Stay home from work or school until you are 24 hours fever-free without the use of medicine. - Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze. Q. What are lhe symptoms of thc corona­ virus? ' A. The coronavirus can affect thc respira­ tory system. Common symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and bi t lift­ ing difficulties. Q. 1 recently relumed from China and am feeling sick or 1 am feeling sick and was exposed lo someone who was investigated to have the new coronavirus. What should 1 do? A. Contact your healthcare provider over the phone and explain your symptoms and where you have traveled. Calling ahead means the health care facility can prepare for your arrival and reduce the risk of spreading the illness. You should also avoid further travel if you are sick. • Q. What is the health department in Barry’ County doing to monitor the coronavirus? ' A. When someone in Barry or Eaton coun­ ties is suspected of being ill with the new coronavirus, the health department will be notified and monitor the case, taking action to investigate and prevent further exposures with lhe help of state and federal partners.. Q. What is the status of lhe outbreak? A. This is monitored by CDC. WHO. and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Information may rapidly change, so up-to-date information on the outbreak can be found at https://www.cdc. gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/inde.x html and http://Michigan.gov/Coronavirus. 221 South Jefferson Street Hastings, Michigan (269) 945-3547 www.kamuelleraccounting.com 136.190 Position Opening THIS Moro than SOS Ot adulta have a positive porewptien of ads in print newspapers•• Kant CO t;> exuaced content? ! l he Barry County Abstract Department is accepting applications t°r a full fime County Abstractor lo maintain the minty’s tract index, index legal description5/01 appropriate recorded documents, proof” indexing ol all documents, assist businesses, FOR SALE C*ll this p»por vr paling property description. The lH.44 per |lour Please send a uo\cr letter, resume and completed job application Jorm to. Michae| Brown. County Administrator- «iiTy County Administration. 220 West State • 1 vet, l|;lstingSi MI 49058. An application «,n •u description is available at wyvyyA bmrycounty.o!) • or by contacting Barry County Administrate • bun) county??^’- 269-945-1284, nibrpvyiA^ Family Owned and Operated m v < mint' and and behavioral health issues. Invest in services for victims In addition to the recommendations to reduce jail populations, the task force rerom- . mended investing “significant funding” for support lor crime victims, including expand­ ing services such as counseling and tranoiional housing shelters. It also recommended giving police more money to deliver personal protection orders to ( abusive romantic partners and expanding law enforcement training for interview techniques • designed to acknowledge and not w or en vic­ tim trauma. “In order to want to invest in these resourc- ' es and have this system make mon- seu-.r. we also need to invest in support for victims and survivors,” Gilchrist said. “The breadth of the recommendations reflect that intercom*, cted nature. .-<■ I Chatfield would not say how much thc , Legislature might appropriate to these initialives. "'The bottom line is you fund what jour ‘ priorities are. and criminal justice reform if a priority for us.” K. A. MUELLER ACCOUNTING Emily Anne Mikolanz, Hastings and Diomas Michael Cold la J las tings Michael Bart Mileski 11, Battle Creek and Martina Marie Pahner, Hickory Corners Jonathon Christopher Bowers. Middleville and Madison Goldie Ann Abshier. Middleville Danny Lee Rose Jr- Hastings and Claudia •one Andler. Hastings Derek Wayne Mellen, Delton and Rachel Renee Mellen. Delton documents an base pay rate • Traditional and (arnuttion Services • Pre-Planning Services • Ixtrgc Parking bit - Handicap Accessible • Serving All Faiths • Pre-arnuigeinent Transfers Accepted • Coronavirus risk low in Michigan local health officials say public and county departments in finding recorded z- . - rule rather than the exception for people with . mental and behavioral health needs to be “deflected” out of thc criminal ju-nce • tern before being arrested and “diverted out tier­ ward into treatment services rather than >r.idilional incarceration and probation, unh* -• they pose a public safety risk. It also rccomm< nded dedicating more money to train law enforce­ ment to better deal with people with mental Deadline f"r “•Wiag; Open until fined. NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of •ke Barry County I Board of Commissioners held Jan. 28. 2020, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St.. Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m, Monday through Friday, or I www.barrycounty.org , J �Tossava will seek re-election as mayor . null .. ................... IlaMing- \i Io"a'“ •'"""■uueed •" ci,> meeting lh.it 11C v... . .eckini’ re election to the four yenr nJ/ J. AuriM primaty. "■ 111. ' and I really like run- llainf GrtHock (he museum on Next Friday evening. ? inMip|Kr Emer>on Street will Ik the" 4 lberv hosted by the Icxal hi^ton ‘ will be bread' and dc^rb » £•30 to 7 p.m. Not only do attend ® * * meal. but they have museum surroundmgMO inspect and enjoy. ;nuseiim lhe February wu» j. 7. (he monthly include- a soup supper rc • b meeting of lhe county genealogy . g. followed hy a board meeung 1 ,b' 1' OT“ epen hours the next weekend. The Red Cro-s will * «" “)Vvn * reb. 10. lor a blood drive from noon <>' 5.45 P The Lions Club, winch senes all the communities in Lakewood school dtstnU. hosted its annual pancake supper Saturday aI st Edward’s f amily < enter with plenty ol unm akes, sausages, applesauce, mixed Inn md tnanle syrup. Dozens ol patrons enjoyed the .Sand thJ company of fellow diners. A cla-s on tai chi sponsored by the loiua County Commission on Aging is underway ,lt thc Lake Odessa library Tuesday mornings. * One has to marvel at the potency of bulbs. An amaryllis, which was a Christmas gift, left unwrapped, was discovered this, week with a 5-inch stem and four blossoms trying to unfold. The stem was curled around the bulb for hick of space. It had no moisture or light ’ . Social Security will not: • Threaten you. • Tell you that your Social Security Number has been suspended. * • Call you lo demand an immediate payment. • Ask for credit or debit card numbers over thc phone. •. • Require a specific means of debt repayment, such as a prepaid debit card, a retail gift card, or cash. provided hy the Harry County offices of Edward Jones • Demand that you pay a Social Security debt without the ability to appeal the amount you owe. • Promise a Social Security benefit approval, or increase, in exchange lor information or money. • Request personal or financial information through email, text messages, or social media. Social Security will: • Sometimes call to confirm you filed for a claim or to discuss other ongoing business you have w ith them. • Mail you a letter if there is a problem. • Mail a letter if you need to submit payments. The letters will have detailed information about options to make payments and the ability to appeal lhe decision. • Use emails, text messages and social media to provide general information (not personal or financial information) on its programs and services if you have signed up lo receive these messages. Share this information with your family and friends. Member SIPC Jim Lundin 2169W.hM3.HWJ.|SuiteA Hashltj^ Ml 4905. (2C9)3tO-0423 Jeff Domenico, AAMSO 450 Meadow Run Dr. Suite 100 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-8265 Be aware of Social Security myths lights since November. Callers may not be who they say they are Vonda VanTil Public Affairs Spec ialist / .A widespread telephone scam involves callers claiming they’re from Social Security. Tire caller ID may even show a government number. . ’rhese callers may say there’s a problem wph your Social Security number. They also may threaten to arrest you unless you pay a tine or fee using gift cards, pre-paid debit cards, a wire transfer, or cash. That call is not from us. It is a scam. If you receive a suspicious call from someone alleging to be from Social Security, you should: • Hang up right away. • Never provide persona! information, tponey, or retail gift cards. • Report lhe scam at oig.ssa.gov/ to Social Security’s law enforcement team at the Office of the Inspector General. financial FOCUS all these weeks. Downtown Ixike Odessa is pretty at night with all the sidewalk trees wrapped in white SOCIAL SECURITY 5 MATTERS ninfmeetings, ruppt;,,...’’ ••Tossava ......said. . k,.«» to i.v ning “We’re here promote the wellness of our city and of our citizens.” lossava. a former member of the city’s department of public services, served several terms as a council representative from the 2nd Ward and was elected mayor in 2017. sue Social Security can he one source nt rvtircniun income for you and your spo^. mi/e joqr lvncfi\ you’ll nwd to make some Visions ;uid be aware nfson1c common myths. • Myth 1: JAv(/)S mkc Social Security early, you Can tt|e for Social Security bendih as ear­ ly as 02. hut \ou evdd get 25'* o to 30% more if \uu v<ajj Unsil your “full” rctinapei age (like­ ly between 66 and67). You can rccciNc even more if you wait until 70, al which pant sour benefits will “max out" liowcxer, there’s no right time to file for on cry one • it dcjxmds on your situation, including factors such as your life expectancy, employ ment. financial need and spousal considerations • Mxth 2: Hhen y(tu claim Social Security won) afivlyour spouses benefits. ThiA is not true. How much ytiu rccrive in S,x.ial Security can affect your .spouse’s benefits while \ou arc aliN e (spous.J benefits) .md after you’xe pa^ed away (?jrxisor\ benefits). Your spnuse could re­ cviNe up to half of ytur retire­ ment benefit. > »ffset bvhs or her own benefit, so the Wiger you work before cv’lectka Sexrial Security, tho grea'ce 4? poten- tial spousal benefits. I'or survi­ lated withholdings. So, if nou vor benefits, your spouse would plan on working and receiving receive 100% of your benefit Social Security, it may not make or his or her own, whichever is sense to file if most of your ben­ larger, so when you file affects efits will be withheld. Once you how much your spouse would reach full retirement age, you receive if you pass away early . can earn any amount without In any case, you’ll want to con­ losing your monthly benefits, sult with thc Social Security Ad­ although your benefits could ministration about how much still be taxed. your spouse can receive, as his My th r4: Social Security will or her own benefits can also af­ provide for all my needs tn re­ fect your decision-making. tirement. Social Security will • Myth 3: You cant nvrk provide about a third of pre-re­ during retirement and colled tirement income, on average, Social Security. Yes, y ou can. according to die Social Security But if you start receiving So­ Administration. Consequently, cial Security before your full you’ll probably still need other retirement age (likely between sources of retirement income and 67), you can only cam because Social Security alone up to S 18.240 in 2020 and still most likely won’t be enough to get your full benefits. Once meet your needs. So, through­ you cam more tlian this, So­ out y our w orking y ears, contrib­ cial Security deducts SI from ute as much as you can to y our y our benefits for evcry $2 y ou IRA and your 401(k) or oilier earn. But during die year you employer-sponsorcd retirement reach full retirement age, you plan. Combining these income urn earn up to S48.600 without sources with Social Security y our benefits being withheld. I f can help improve your chances y ou exceed this amount, S1 w ill of enjoying the retirement lifebe deducted for every S3 you sty Ic y ou’ve env i>ioned. cam during the months before This article was written by you attain your full retirement Edward Jones for use by your age. Social Security will in­ bu'al Edward Jones Financial crease your benefits when you Ad\'isor. do reach full retirement age to adjust for lhe prev ioUs work-re­ EdwardJones. Member SIPC Vonda Van Til is the public affairs specialist fur IFcvr Michigan. You may write her do Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rupids Ml 49525 or via email to vorida.vantil@ssa.gov. 136277 Hope Township Notice of Public Hearing and Planning Commission Meeting to Consider Adoption of an Amendment to the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE HOPE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Hope Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and meeting on Thursday, February 20 2020 at 6'30 p.m. at the Hope Township Hall, 5463 S M-43 Hwy, within the Township. The purpose of the hearing is to receive comments from the public on the adoption of an amendment to the zoning ordinance pertaining to the phasing and reclamation of mining operations. If adopted, the amendment would require the Planning Commission to determine lhe amount of a mining ooeration site that may be open at any time. a H A copy of the zoning ordinance and the proposed amendment is available for review at the Hope Township Office during regular business hours 9 00 a.m. through noon and 1:15 p.m. through 3:00 p m. on Wednesdays Written comments will be received from any interested persons bv the Hnne Township Clerk at the Township Hall at any time during regular business hours up to the date of the hearing and may be further received bv the Planning Commission at the hearing. Oral comments will be taken m he meeting. dl Ule All interested persons are invited to be present at the aforesaid time and plaCG. . This notice is posted in compliance with PA267 of 1976 as amended lOnen ■ Meetings Act) MCIA 41 72a (2) (3) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Hope Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of orinted . material being considered al the hearing, to individuals with disabilities at the (rearing upon seven (7) days' notice to the Hope Township Clerk Individuals ' with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Hope ' Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. " HOPE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION ; ’ 5463 SM 43 Hwy Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269) 948-2464 Dr. Universe: ‘Why does the wind bln"? Odin.7.^lt Venion, Wash. Dear Odin. When the wind blow*, it van do all kinds of things. It can help pick up tiny *veds and carry them away, so plants and Howers can grow in new places. It can push a big sail boat across an oceah3Vc can even harness ’the wind to make clean energy to power . our homes and schoolsThat’s what I faund out from my friend Gordon Taub. an engineer at Washington State University. He b curious alxmt wind energy and told nl0re about why the wind blow s Whether ifSa|,reC7e. a gustoragale ssiitds ate blowj,.,, in our atmosphere all the time. When lh‘e heats the I anil, it doesn't aelually , j| cseitly. , Part of th.. r;. ' |... i-arth doesn t heat tip evenly js .. . '’ j, really 'ar assay. Because the |.lln| „ hi;; sphere.« hen the llnally ' p.us. they ate gotttg ntainly in Ol| > rhcy are mainly l«imed at t|,e . cl,t,.,tor That means .o';?!lunU gn,UUd :U Poles than they do a he equator. As i|lc.1 ° . nVS pass through the air rhz i 1 'UH S W wind holds a lol of energy, too. Wind tur­ bines can help lake the kinetic or motion energy of wind ami turn it into electrical energy that can power our world. Taub’s students are actually working on a wind turbine project of their own and w ill debut it at a national competition in 2020 If you arc curious about wind, maybe one day you’ll investigate wind power, too. Maybe you’ve also seen some wind tur­ bines if you’ve traveled. Taub said wind unbines usually start spinning when the wind is blow ing about 11 mph. They usu­ ally shut down when winds reach speeds of about 44 mph, so the blades don’t get bust­ ed up. You know, we have some pretty strong winds on planet Earth, but that’s nothing compared to other planets. Jupiter’s red spot has winds of up to 250 mph, almost twice the speed of the fastest w ind on Earth [163 mph was the highest recordedl. And Neptune’s winds are thc fastest in the solar system reaching 1.600 mph —faster than a lighter jet. On Earth, wind also can help us slay cool on hot days. I think I’m going to make my own wind {Xiwcred pinwheel this sum­ mer and then watch your creation spin in the wind. 1 air. they m When tllv;li'"'ic.'. ,or "arms ttp.tt '•'Pa"4s. T.n,h ‘TXd me. Things start c>lll"P ai01l,.j air nt‘>'e' J" u’ P'aces where m ' ..,»A r. I hi''»'Mitg •md ntinen.,.„'K '’it t" |inc(Viit tempera,,,r" -"d; ih-1 'Sutes ! * Dr. Univeise Do you have a iiuc\iion? Ask l)r. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University’s resident scientist and writer at Dr.llniverse(swsucdu or \iut her website, askdruniverse.com. Cail 26g g45-9554 for Hastings Banner ads . Campbell . _____ . Tossavatsthecit)' city’s eroding Frank Fra*' ’ . • ... that th nt was first filled by cecding 20th inaym. <• P° ^71. Henry Goodyear forward lo the next four years. saiu and sense of bunion win." Legion hosting regional contest here Saturday Kathy Maurer Cop\ Editor Four high school students will be at the Hastings American Legion Post Saturday morning, showcasing their knowledge of thc U5. Constitution in hopes of advancing to lhe stale finals of the National High School Oratorical Contest. Each contestant will give an 8- to 10-minute prepared oration on any aspect of thc U.S. Constitution, followed by a 3to 5-minute presentation on one of four amendments. Four amendments are chosen by lhe American Legion each year. However, at the competition, the amendments are randomly drawn, so students must be prepared to address any of the four. Zone 2 - one of five zones of the American Legion. Department of Michigan - includes roughly the lower third of Michigan, said Jim Atkinson of Hastings, who serves as Zone 2 chairot the Education and Scholarship Committee. The zone’s 16 counties run from Ottawa and Kent, south across the Indiana line and east to Monroe County. The four finalists competed in one of two semi-finals in Jackson Jan. 11 or Hastings Jan. 18. They include: Aaron Siebelink. a senior homeschooler from Wyoming. He won the state championship as a sophomore. Francesca Rahe, a junior at Hillsdale Academy. She defeated Siebelink in the Zone 2 contest last year and was the second runner-up in Michigan. /Anna Grejtak, a senior from Monroe Catholic Central. This is her first year in (he competition, and she took second at the Jackson semi-finals. Luke Manring, a homeschooled senior from Richland. He qualified at the Hastings semi-finals. The oratorical program was begun in 1935 when familiarity with lhe Constitution was negligible. Atkinson said. "We hear a lot about students not being proficient, and this gives thc public an opportunity to see students who are proficient and knowledgeable of thc U.S. Constitution.” he said. "It’s fun. It’s a great contest.” As Zone 2 chair, he’s attended regional, state and even national finals, and has listened to numerous contestants. Still, he walks away impressed every time. Contestants gain public speaking skills while competing for college scholarship money. "It’s a great opportunity for a student who’s motivated." he said. Two of the contestants in Saturday’s lineup earned scholarships in previous years. State winners receive $1,500: runners-up, $1,000: and the next three finishers get S800 each. Top state winners receive scholarships just for attending the national level and then compete for the top three awards of SlK.O(X), $ lb.000 and $14,000. Saturday’s event is open to the public. Attendees should plan to arrive between 9:30 and 9:45 am. at the Lawrence J. Bauer Post. 2160 M-37, south of Hastings. Follow The,I Hastings 1 Banner on i Facebook to | keep up to date until the new edition is printed! i �The Hastings Banner - Thursday. January 30, 2020 — Pape 9 fl look back at thc stories and columns on local history In the Hastings Banner X TURNING BACK THE PAGES ■ not to run this >e3rf?nlh *' be a matter of regret to her many fn • nd lo those who recognize the efltc'enh a lhfu| setvire s),c State’s first female probate judge serves county through 1920s --- ------------ Third in a series Kathy Maurer Copy Editor Ella (Mills) Eggleston was chosen by Gov. Albert Sleeper to be Barn County’s probate judge in November 1919. Iler most recent boss. Judge Ellis Faulkner, had decided to resign and return to a more lucrative drug store business lo support his large family. With that appointment, Ella Eggleston became lhe first female probate judge in lhe state of Michigan. To local residents at the time, she seemed lhe logical choice. She had worked as register of probate for 18 \ears and was said lo know the workings of the probate office better than anyone else in the county. To readers today, she may seem more unlikely. She didn’t have a law degree. It appears she did not even attend college. She had been a school teacher for a few years before being married in 1895. Five years later, when her two daughters were mere babies, she moved in with her parents on State Street in Hastings. She later filed for divorce from her first husband. Benny Hecox, which was granted in 1903. Bv then, she’d ahead} been working al the probate office, where her father. James Blair Mills, had been elected judge. He would be the first of four judges for whom she worked. According to the 1910 U.S. Census, she and her daughters. Etbehn. 13. and Eva, 11, resided at 4/4 \V. MUI St. Ella’s mother. Louisa (Smith) Mills, was living with them, as well. Her father died in 1903. and her mother in May 1911. Three months later, in August 1911. Ella married widower. Ralph Eggleston, who had been a neighbor on West Mill Street. 'Die couple remained there for several years before moving lo 528 S. Jefferson St. After her 1919 appointment. Judge Eggleston officially ran for office in 1920 and was easily and officially elected. A Republican party advertisement in the overh%dbe re ^^nyd the br°££ntsh^cOnsulted P0SSlb'eJ'the attorneys usually “Her advice is often sought by lawyers of this and other counties on matters of this character, and her decisions have been considered final." Oct. 28. 1920, Banner summarized the incumbent: “Mrs. Eggleston s experience in probate work far surpasses that usually received by candidates for this office. She has been almost continuously connected with the probate office of Barry Count} for the past 18 years or more, and is most highly qualified to dispatch the duties of this office with care and justice. Mrs. Eggleston has no opposition.” Her success in lhe polls continued through the 1920s. The Banner of Nov. 7. 1928. listed her alongside several successful male candidates m lhe previous day’s election. “There was no opposition to Len W. Feighncr for representative from this county,” the paper reported. “He received a heavy vote. The same is true of Judge Ella Eggleston for probate judge. William G. Bauer for prosecuting attorney, M.O. Hill for count} clerk. Willis Streeter for county treasurer. Bernie Walker for drain commissioner and Dr. Sheffield for coroner. There were no candidates against any of these.” The July 20. 1932. Banner announced Judge Eggleston, who would turn 59 thc following month, was not seeking re-election: “Has given about 30 years of capable and efficient service to Barry County “Our readers have probably noticed that Judge Ella Eggleston has not announced her candidacy for re-nomination. She has decided :iC*N CANDIPATB has given to Barry m the probate office for so many y^• “She has served as pm ’ate register (for 18 years] and as probaW for about [I3J years, and has given the of |lcr life lo lhat work. Those who have had business with thc probate court do not need t© be told how capably she has served- She has made a thorough study of her duties. “While not a lawyer, she has mastered lhe subject of probate, also juvenile court law. Her decisions in such matters, where they have been appealed to higher court, have always been sustained. “When there was dissatisfaction over her decision in any case brought before her. and the possible litigants have consulted attorneys, the attorneys usually have advised that lhe judge handled the matter according lo law, so that comparatively few appeals from her decisions have been made. ‘’Because of her knowledge of the law governing estate matters, she has saved those who had business in her court from the necessity of procuring legal assistance. She has always been generous in giving assistance and advice to executors, administrators, guardians, etc., in the making out of reports and in the handling of estates. “Judge Eggleston’s health has not been as good in recent years, so she fell that she did not wish to enter into any contest for this office. Accordingly, she decided some time ago not to be a candidate. “While not a lawyer, she has mastered the subject of probate, also juvenile court law. Her decisions in such matters, where they have been appealed to higher court, have always been sustained." When her present term shall expire next January, she can retire with the consciousness that she has given to Barry.County her ver} best service and has been faithful to the trust reposed in her by (he people. \ “She has been a capable.\conscientious. helpful probate judge. She has bien recognized al slate gatherings of probate judges as an authority on probate court luw, and is considered as one of the be$t-infonned probate judges in Michigan.” Sources: Hastings Banner, ’’Outstanding Women of Barry County, ” 1976:faintlysearch, org: findagrave .coin; " 1912 Hislory of Barry County;” and the late Gordon Mitchdl. j ' TO BE VOTED FOR ROBBERY, continued -Mt* cross X. in the circle O right under thfe picture of Abe 1 from page 1 LW«£day, November 2, coin and make your vote A Straight Republican Vote - Choose the Party of itWg Lincoln,' Grant. McKinley and Roosevelt il Support the ?arly wh< | Policy has always been 1 J efficient and solid Amer V»’ahz/ E.ju4 S'—l . T—.... where the defense was expected to present witnesses to show why Noel should be allowed to post bond pending trial, KaCzor said Wednesday in a phone interview with The Banner. Kaczor is a former Barry County assistant prosecutor. Noel was arrested the day after the Chemical Bank robbery. In issuing his decision to deny bond in this case. Judge Kent expressed concern about Noel’s mental stale, noting that he had been placed under suicide Watch at the Barry County Jail shortly after his arrest. “Something is on with you, some­ thing 1 can’t explain,” the judge told Noel, noting that he has not shown any signs of substance abuse. Born in Haiti. Noel came to the United States at age 5 with his parents and is a natu­ ralized U.S. citizen. He served in the U.S. Air Force for six years, the judge said during the hearing. . Noel has had a stable entp|Oymcnt history, working since 2002 lor bayton Freight, a regional trucking company, |je a|s0 had worked with FedEx, Judge Kent sajj He has several misdemeanor on record, the most recent being 3 -°18 p|ca to a charge of illegal possession ° a firearm inside a motor vehicle, for which he Was fi|)ed $200. Judge Kent said. , (arP in this 1920 Barry Coun|y Republican advertisement in the The lone female iau • Judge E|la Eggleston would be re elected throughout Oct 28. 1920. candidates in the ad include John C. Ketcham, lor US the 1920s. otheL M^ins state representative; Walter Burd, sheriff; John M. Gould; Goneness: Allred N ■ . -j- Campbell, treasurer. G. Elmer McArthur, slate senate’ prosecuting attorney. Jo.eP and Mark A Rilcbie. r(jgisler o( deeds. David N. Honeywell, county Call 269-945-9554 lor Hastings Banner classifieu ads LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN BARRY COUNTY TRIAL COURT CIRCUIT DIVISION ORDER TO ANSWER HON. VICKY L ALSPAUGH FILE NO. 20-45-CH ESTATE OF RICHARD EARL HARROUN III, By Norma Christine Harroun, Its Personal Representative, Plaintiff, vs. ANGELA GOMBAR, JOHN CORSIGLIA. JAMES CORSIGUA. and AJEREMY CORSIGLIA, and/ or OTHER UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JOHN LEE CORSIGLIA and THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JOHN V. CORSIGUA. Defendants________ _________________ David H. Tripp (P29290) Tripp & Tagg. Attorneys al Law 202 South Broadway Hastings, Michigan 49050 (269) 945-9585 AMQrnejLfoLEiainlif!_________________ ___ TO: ANGELA GOMBAR. JOHN CORSIGLIA. JAMES CORSIGUA, JEREMY CORSIGLIA, AND/OR THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JOHN LEE CORSIGUA AND THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JOHN V. CORSIGLIA Based upon the pleadings filed In the above entitled case. IT IS ORDERED that Defendants shall file a Notice of Interest in the real property located In Yankee springs Township. Barry County. Michigan, more fully described as follows: LOT 70 OF PARKERS LAKEWOOD PLAT ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF AND THE NORTH 20 FEET OF LOT 72 OF SAID PARKERS LAKEWOOD PLAT NO. 1 ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, ALL BEING PART OF THE NORTHEAST SECTION 30, TOWN 3 NORTH RANGE 10 WEST, ALSO GRANTING THE RIGHT OF INGRESS AND EGRESS OVER PRIVATE ROADWAY FROM PUBLIC HIGHWAY AS NOW LAID OUT TO AND FROM THESE LOTS WITH OTHER LOT OWNERS AND ALSO OVER PASSWAY LOT NO. 77 TO THE SHORE OF GUN LAKE. Parcel No: 08-16-160-070-00 By the 26th day of March, 2020. to assert any inlerst In and to the above described property. If Defendants fail to do so that shall contitute a default In the above entitlted matter and on the 27th day of March, 2020, at 9:00 o'clock in the forenoon this Court shall take proofs and shall terminate whatever interest the Unknown Heirs of John Lee Corsiglia and/or Angela Gombar, John Corsiglia, James Corsiglia. Jeremy Corsiglia and/or other unknown heirs of John V. Corsiglia. Defendant named herein, and/or all other Defendant's named herein who may be unable to be served, that the above named Defendants may have in and to the above described property unless a Notice of Interest in the real property orunless Defendants or their representative appear on that date. Vicky L. Alspaugh Drafted by: David H. Tripp (P29290) Attorney at Law 202 South Broadway Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-9585 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961. 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale lo the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM. on February 06, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing lhe highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE: Mortgagor(s): Raymond Featherstone, a married man and Jen Featherstone, his wife Original Mortgagee. Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender s successors and assigns Date of mortgage: November 22,2013 Recorded on December 10,2013, Instrument 2013-014496 Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC Amount da:med to be due at the date hereof: One Hundred Fifty-Nine Thousand Three Hundred Forty-Seven and 80/100 Dollars ($159,347.80) Mortgaged premises: Situated in Barry County, and described as: Parcel 1: Beginning on the North and South 1/4 line, South 957.78 foot from the North 1/4 post of Section 33. Town 1 North. Range 9 West, said place of beginning also being South, 297.08 feet from the Northeast comer of the South 1/2 of the North 1/2 of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 ol said Section 33; thence South 264.02 feet along said North and South 1/4 line; thence North 89 degrees 43 minutes 52 seconds West, 198.00 feet parallel with the East and West 1/4 l.ne of said Section 33: thence North 264.02 feet para'.'el wrtn said North and South 1/4 kne; thence South 89 degrees 43 minutes 52 seconds East. 198 00 feet, para’.’el with said East and West 1/4 line to tne place of beginning. Reserving the Easterly 33 feet for public road ngnt ol way. Parcel 2: Beginning on the North and South 1/4 lino, South 1221.82 feet from the North 1/4 post of Section 33. Town 1 North. Rango 9 West, said p'-ace of beginning also be>ng South 561.10 feet Northeast corner of the South 1/2 of the North 1/2 o the Northeast 1/4 of tho Northwest 1/4 of said Section 33; thence South 264.02 feet along sa»d North and South 1/4 line; thence North 89 degrees 43 52 seconds West 198.C0 feet parallel wtfHho EM and West 1/4 lute of said Section o3: thenco North 264.02 feet parallel with said North snd Soumtaw, thence South 89 degrees 43 198 00 feet parallel with sa d East and Wes the place of beginning Commonly kn • Kellogg School Rd. H.ckory Corners -^0 The redemption period w. l bu 6 months fro such sale, unless abandoned und^MCL in which cose the .odwt™ ‘ from tho date of such sao, or 15 ( 600.32410(b) Mabo-.e extinguished pursuant to.sale under referenced property a so a cl 600 3278. Chapter 32 of Act o lender tho borrower w,H be hdd f P ’ ~ foreclosure who buys the property a damag ng tho sate or to tho ’ pKloj. Attention property during the <ce member on homeowner If you duty has concluded active duty, if your period d >cU^t0 Iass than 90 days ago. o • Y (or UH, pafly active duty, pfoaso conlov ^jeptxsno number foreclosing tho ^^XHoanSenriong. LLC stated tn tms nol.ee L dtjnr & snerman P.C. Mortgagec/Asslgnoo , piMfringlon H<;ts. Ml 23938 Research Dr. su.u 48335 248.5397400 1406272 135457 (01 09)(01-30) Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice Is given under section 3212 of the judicature act of 1961. 1961 FA 236, MCL 6C0.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, cr some part ci them, at a pub! c auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier^ check at the place of hold ng the circuit court m Barry County, starting promptly at 1.W PM, on February 20. 2020. The amount due on^.no mortgage may be greater on the day of safe. Pacing the highest bid at the sale does not automates <y entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership cf the property. A potential purchaser Is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a tile insurance company, either of which may charge a feo for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Daniel Loe Schuitman, an unmarried man . Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/or assigns Foreclos:ng Assignee (i! any): ArnenFirst Finance! Corporation Date of Mortgage: August 6,2018 Date of Mortgage Recording: August 13,2018 Amount claimed duo on date of notice: $129,345.05 Description of the mortgaged prem ses: Situated in Charter Township of Rutland, Barry County, Mich!gan. and desenbed as: A parcel of land located in the Northeast 1/4 cf Section 11, Town 3 North, Range 9 West, Township of Rutland. Barry County, Michigan, described as follows: Beginning at a po.nt on the center line of O’d M-37 which les South 00 degrees 06 minutes 20 seconds East 43326 feet and South' 50 degrees 33 minutes 20 seconds East 1056.01 fee! from the North 1/4 post cf said Section 11: thence South 39 degrees 26 minutes 40 seconds West 189.0 feet; thence North 50 decrees 33 minutes 20 seconds West 217.69 feet; thence"North 32 degrees 19 minutes 08 seconds East 190.47 feet to the center of said highway; thence South 50 degrees 33 minutes 20 seconds East 241.32 feet to the place of beginning.} Common street address (rf any): 2437 W State Rtf. Hastings. Ml 49058-8561 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned Jn accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is so'd at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961. pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner if you are a military service member on active duty, If your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the te'ephone number stated In this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: January 23,2020 Trott Law, RC. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hdis, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1407033 (01-23X02-13) 135829 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to return of tho bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE BY ADVERTISEMENT: Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA236, MCL 600.3212. that the following mortgage will bo foreclosed by a salo of the mortgaged premises, or somo part of them, at a public auction salo to lhe highest bidder for cash or cashier^ check at tho place of holding tho circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 p.m., on February 27,2020. The amount duo on tho mortgage may bo greater on tho day of tno salo. Placing tho highest bid at tho sale does not automatically entitle tho purchaser to free and dear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact tho county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of wh’ch may change a fee for this information. MORTGAGE SAI F- Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by JOHN OLIN, original mortgagof(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as original mortgagee, as nominee tor Mid America Mortgage Inc., its successors and ass-gns. Mortgagee, dated July 19, 2016, and recorded on July 29, 2016, as Instrument No. 2016-007453. in Barry County Records, Michigan and last assigned to Mid America Mortgage, Inc., as tho foreclosing assignee, as documented by an Assignment of Mortgage dated December 9, 2019, and recorded on December 16,2019, as Instrument No. 2019-012375. m Barry County Records. Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be duo and owing ns of February 2. 2020. tho sum of One Hundred Seven Thousand Six Hundred N>nety Seven and 59/100 U.S. Dollars ($107,697.59). Said mortgaged premises Is situated at 226 West Marshal! Street, Hastings. Michigan 49058 in the Crty of Hostings, Barry County. Michigan, and is described as: LAND IN THE CITY OF HASTINGS. BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, TO WIT: EAST 1/2 OF LOTS 1272 AND 1273, CITY OF HASTINGS, FORMERLY THE VILLAGE OF HASTINGS. ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF. BARRY COUNTY RECORDS. The redemption period shall bo 6 months (180 Days) horn the date of such sakj, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, tn which case tne redemption period shall ba 30 days from the date of such sale. Pursuant to Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, II the property Is sold at foreclosure sale tho borrower w*)l ba held responsible to tbo person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale cr lo tho mortgage Irold-ar undor MCLA 600.3278 for damaging thc property during the redemption period Attention homeowner: II you are a mAtary service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less tt*an 90 days ago, or il you have been ordered to active duty^ please contact the attorney for the party lorectoomq the mortgage at the telephone number stated in thia notice. Dated January 7,2020 For More Information, please call: Matthew R. Reinhardt, Esq. Quinlairou,Prieto, Wood & Boyer, PA Attorneys for Servicer 255 South Orange Avenue. Suite 900 Orlando, Florida 32601 (855) 287-0240 Matter No. 139770 (01 -09)101-30) 135449 �Page 10 • Thursday. January 301 '0 _ py> Hiisbnps Banner Chief Jason Sixberry formally introduced to Nashville Thylor Owens Staff Writer Just over a month after being swom in as Nashville police chief, Jason Sixberry had his first coffee with thc community at 2 or 3 Together Tuesday evening. Technically. until Feb. 29. Sixberry is an employee of the Barry’ County Sheriff’s Office. He has worked at lhe .sheriff's office tor mote than 29 years. Then he’ll be police chief in Nashville. Tuesday’s event, hosted by the Nashville Lions Club, was a way for people to meet Sixberry and ask questions about local law Nashville Police Chief Jason Sixberry brings nearly 30 years of law enforcement experience to lhe job. enforcement. “It’s important for us to know who our Jason Sixberry talks with Nashville residents Sandra Lundquist and Nancy Carl at 2 or 3 Together Tuesday afternoon. (Photos by Taylor Owens) Ex sneaks into garage to take photos of new boyfriend’s truck A 28-year-old woman called police at 6:40 a.m. Jan. 24 to report her ex-boyfriend had ^broken into her garage in the 5000 block of Charlton Park Road in Baltimore Township. Thc woman said he sent photos of her current boy friend’s truck, which was inside the •garage. She found the door to thc garage, which had been held closed with a cinder block, had been forced open. The man. 23, of Battle Creek, went to the United Way to show them a video of thc truck. He wanted to prove the woman had a boyfriend living with her who was not on her lease, which he said was important in a custody dispute over their son. The officer contacted the man, who said he did not go inside the garage, but saw the door was cracked open, and reached his arm inside to take thc photos. Information was forwarded police officers are. and give them our sup­ port,” Nashville Lions Club member Kalen Swift said. About 30 people came to the meet and greet, and Sixberry hopes to reach more by having similar sessions every four lo six months. For now. Sixberry is settling in lo Nashville. He’s been cleaning out and revamping lhe police department office, seeking lo fill part- time police officer positions and introducing himself to people in thc community - on top of his day-to-day duties as thc police chief. "I feel like Gumby every once in a while, I’m spread so thin.” Sixberry joked Tuesday. Sixberry said he is ready to take on new challenges, and work toward improving Nashville. ”l’m here to help this place get better.” he said. Sheriff’ Dar Leaf said the sheriff’s office has always had a strong relationship with the Nashville department, and it will make for an even stronger relationship with Sixberry as chief. Tlie sheriff’s office will fill Sixberry’s posi­ tion as daytime sergeant by testing f rom with­ in. Leaf said. ir3-isurDies iiw©lh 7S feet m (cgMWset tat udt® to the prosecuting attorney. Alcohol involved in single-vehicle accident towing company notified police of a suspicious call received at 2:30 a.nt. Jan. 26 .involving a crash on Broadway near Main Street in Woodland. When an officer arrived, thc driver, a 29-year-old Wayland man. said he had been “pre-gaiping” for a party and had some beer. He had a 0.16 blood alcohol content and was arrested. Counterfeit bills caught in Nashville Police were called to the Nashville Shell station on a report of a counterfeit bill al 10:24 a.m. Jan. 18. Employees said a man and woman who appeared to be in their 20s or 30 s attempted to purchase a fountain drink with n $100 bill that was dearly fake. lhe bill had been ripped and half, taped back together, did not have security watermarks and had “pay it forward” written in marker. The employees confiscated lhe bill, but allowed thc couple to keep the fountain drink. The couple immediately walked over to The Country Kettle, where they attempted to use another bill that appeared the same. When the cashier there refused to take the bill, the man handed over a debit card. The cashier received a message on the register to confiscate the debit card, and thc 37-y car-old Baltic Creek man handed over a second one, which was declined. The couple left. Thc case is closed since neither business wished to press charges. Price stickers switched at checkout A46-ycar-old Caledonia man and his 13-y car-old daughter were stopped at Walmart in Hastings after purchasing a battery at 3:37 p.m. Jan. 18. A store associate noticed the man use his hand to scan for the battery and believed he used a UPC for a different battery. The man bought a $53 battery for $21. He was accused of committing a similar offense at a Grand Rapids Walmart two years ago. Thc man became angry and returned all of his items after an officer confronted him. He also refused to acknowledge a no trespass warning. Information was forwarded to the prosecuting attorney. Firefighters monitor the Quonset hut after dousing 75 foot flames Saturday morning. (Photo provided) / i Taylor Owens ' Staff Writer A Qaonset hut holding car parts, metal, oil and gasoline caught fire early Saturday moming oq East State Road near East Timberwood Drive in Hastings Charter Township. Freeport Fire Department Lieutenant Lani Forbes told Fox 17 on the scene that lhe fire was fully involved when first responders were called at 4:54 a.m. Flames from the hut reached up to 75 feet, Forbes said, and four tanker trucks called to the scene to ensure there was enough water. Departments from Woodland. Freeport and Hastings responded to the fire. Witness spots drunk driver at gas station A 62-year-old man was seen stumbling into a vehicle at a gas station in Richland, trav­ eling north on M-43 at 10:16 p.m. Jan. 21. A caller provided police with an address in the 500 block of Harrington Road in Hope Township. When an officer arrived, lhe man asked multiple times who the officer was with, and was unsteady on his feet. The man claimed he had consumed one beer, but refused a Breathalyzer. He didn’t have any beer in the house, but had multiple cans in lhe car. He also admitted lo driving home 15 minutes pre­ viously. He was arrested and later registered a 0.198 BAC nt the Barry County Jail. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 .4 ntontotive 03 HONDA PILOT leather, good condition inside, needs motor. Asking $1,500 OBO. 269-838-6590. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: At* «>ur fcjvrrtntag in il-h • - • -p:?cr ■’ • <*»thr J n>r II.> n r.; A.t it.- M..r. rjn Ki,?:- Ati rt cinieciocl) rrjlc <1 jikpl U> “t.-.) ^ct'frncr, |.RHial»nsi ba-ed :m.c, cvl.-r. •s. p'.1. hunbitp, fs—.•In.J Cj.ui. i’ .!!•>._>! on 't. : Of r.u-rtt*) »» . •: i .:rr !•: n »n> <i.s.h J .••• . .! »...si ch’drtn enjer rhe •/ !x Ini. <. >ith<x Xf.■! <Lx2 ’.4 f i/ v wCct i<* M.l! rat LvCfX j.., fi r ft*! tii-i h > >(. ♦. ./ <>T the I:* O>’r X.tc-; bt.cb) irhwl lU»! r'l't-K s-' «.M nf.. |vl“: *. .!•!:£ Mt - |<> tt •» ’t J-an-t ; «•’; I : - I!'. U • ' . ■ !■ •. ’ ! r -un/t vi* J •C-W7' deuon^^^SB NIOR Subsidized housing for people who are 62-years and older with certain income restrictions.!-bedroom apart­ ments available. Non-smok­ ing, secured facility. Close to downtown Delton. Call lor more information al 269­ 623-4000 or TTY National Relay 711. Equal Housing Opportunity. //< //? Wanted STABLE HAND POSITION­ Looking for someone with experience with horses 269­ 207-4218 or/Ipowclltft yahoo, com. Business Senices BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements. Dis­ count tor Seniors & Veterans. 269-320-3890. MAT I ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spear., etc. Call 269-8ffl-75t)6. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, While Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call tor pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman** comp. Fetterley logging, (269)818-7793. . EGLE offering recycling infrastructure organics-management grants .A total of S3 million is available through the Michigan Department of Environment. Great Lakes and Energys Recyc*’ng aru* Organics Infrastructure Grant program for lhe development of recycling infrastructure or ftxxl waste management programs­ Schools and Unix crsitics* local units of governments, nonprofits, tnbal governments, health departments and solid waste/rccycling authorities may apply for funding to improve recycling programs that would increase the amount of material collected or processed or to improve the level of participation in recycling programs. Organics management infrastructure grant applications is for j)roiCCt> primarily focused on food waste (not yard waste) and must result in a finished Or uartial compost product. The maximum amount of requested lunding for a projtxl is million- Successful lire Recycling and Organics Infrastructure Grant program is pari of a larger effort to increase the statewide recycling rate. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and slate legislators want to double Michigan’s recycling rate to 30 |x?rcent by 2025 and ultimately reach 45 percent annually. Michigan’s current 15 percent recycling rate is the lowest in the Great Lakes region and ranks among lhe nation’s lowest. The economic impact of tripling the recycling rale to 45 percent would support 138,000 new jobs in Michigan’s recycling industry, providing $9 billion in annual labor income and $33.8 billion in economic output, according to a new study commissioned by EGLE. The recycling industry in Michigan currently generales nearly 36,000 jobs statewide and an annual payroll of $2.6 billion. EGL.E and its partners across the stale are promoting awareness of cleaner recycling practices lo reduce lhe amount of contaminated materials improperly going into recycling hific More information about the Know It Before You T hrow It campaign can be found at RecyclingRaccoons.org. Business taxpayers have easier option for filing tax returns Michigan’s bUsi ^payers now have an easier option fCl _ 1 L*r Sa|es. use and Hnny,!1 ^Vewnis. acw.diHg to ’I”-Michigan j) With’l ,hi' UHli Ie-.S th;ln s and no allownh’i Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads grantees must provide a local match that equals al least 20 percent of the total grant budget. Grant funding is made available through the Renew Michigan Fund. The request for proposal and additional information is posted on EGLE’s recycling grants web page. More information can be provided by Erica Richard. 517-284-8337. or RichardEI Michigan.gov. - '•quire •<> It” S t ( ' * 1 ’ i1”.1 . Treasury. jn receipts or exemptions. ZAt.^1 Return °"linC iUM} inR’-'-"10" t0,,,P*W“ J SVW aitn»jl ,clu"’' “Make life easy with lhe SUW EZ,” said Deputy State Treasurer Glenn White, who oversees thc treasury department’s tax admin­ istration programs. “Michigan Treasury Online makes filing returns and paying your business taxes easy. Il you meet lhe criteria, please lake advantage of this paperless option.” To use the new SUW EZ Form, business °'TS ‘an K° 'hC 'Ve'”i,c "’i«l’iSan^W vreute a Midugatt ? °" ,nC acc<’unt No identifiable or sensitive infonnalion will l>e required. Business taxpayers w ill need their treasury business account number and sales, rental and payroll records for the tax year to use the new SUW Tax EZ Return. All business taxpayers are required to sub­ mil their SUW Tax Annual Returns bv Feb. 28. More infonnalion about Michigan’s busi­ ness taxes can be found al michigan.gov/ taxes. �The Hastmgs Banner —- Thursday, January 30, 2020 — Page 11 Three coronavirus tests ruled ‘negative’ in Michigan; new case investigated Bridge Magazine results, according lo the CDC. Symptoms, which seemingly apjX’ar two lo 14 days after exposure, may include lower respiratory- illness, such as fever, coughing and difficulty breathing. Still, little is known about this newly dis­ covered coronavirus. In general, coronavirus­ es are a large group of viruses common among animals and humans. They include the virus that causes severe acute respiratory syn­ drome (SARS) and lhe Middle East respirato­ ry syndrome (MERS). “The ultimate scope and effect of this out­ break is unclear at present as lhe situation is rapidly evolving.” a trio of doctors wrote for the Journal of thc American Medical Association, or JAMA, Thursday. They stressed thc difficulty of understanding evolv­ ing diseases and the importance of “sustained preparedness” among public health officials. While health officials remain vigilant, it appears that Michigan has been spared for the moment. Ringler-Cemiglia said. “You’re more likely to get the flu or anoth­ er cause of respiratory’ illness right now,” she said. More than 300 Michiganders have been hospitalized for flu and flu-related symptoms since Oct. 1, and at least two children have died from the flu this season, according lo the state. More infonnalion on the virus is available al CDC.gov/Coronavirus t S IhHs base ruled out the potentially new coronavirus in three of four suscases in Michigan, lhe state’s health jJartnKnt said Monday. list Friday, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services announced that three people — two from Waditenaw and another from Macomb — had ..ponied with mild illness.” Several other counties also had referred potential cases to state for consideration, and on Monday, a ctMe spokeswoman confirmed that thc depart* jiH-nt had forwarded a fourth case — another tmni Washtenaw — to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for testing. In at least three of the four cases, the sick had traveled to Wuhan, central China, the area identified as lhe source of the outbreak, said tvnn Sulfin. spokeswoman for the state health department. Though it was not clear precisely what had nude lhe three sick, earlier testing al local health departments had ruled out more com* njpn causes such as influenza, said Susan Rjnglcr-Ccmiglia. a spokeswoman for the Washtenaw County Health Department. The coronavirus began in December in Wuhan, and Chinese officials have report­ ed more than 900 cases of infections and at least 25 deaths. At least five cases have been confirmed in the United Stales by Monday, but more than two dozen others were deemed negative. At least 73 other cases are awaiting LEGAL NOTICES —np- r;:.i 11— num STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate FILE NO. 19-028398-DE Estate of Dcnna J. Panyrek. Date of birth: 09/01/1921. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedcnL Donna J. Panyrek. died 11/12/2019. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to James Panyrek, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 205 W. Court St.. Suite. 302, Hastmgs. Ml and the personal represontatve within 4 months after the date Gf publication of this notice. Date: 01/22/2020 David H. Tripp P29290 20? S. Broadway Hastings. Ml 49058 269-948-2900 James Panryek 1335 Patterson Road Wayland, Ml 49348 269-792-9794 136172 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 603.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sate of lhe mortgaged” premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sate to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM. on February 06, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on tho day of the sate. Placmg the highest b.d at tho sate does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of tho property. A potential purchaser is encouraged tc contact tne county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE: Mortgagor(s): John Anes, an unmarried man Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (“MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and tender s successors and assigns Date of mortgage: August 4, 2015 Recorded cn August 20, 2015, in Document No. 2015-008134, Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Quicken Loans Inc. Amount claimed to be due at the date hereof: One Hundred Five Thousand Two Hundred Four and 79/100 Dollars ($105,204.79) Mortgaged premises- Situated in Barry County, and described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of Lot 1152 of the City of Hastings; thence North 4 rods; thence East 12 rods; thence South 4 rods; thence East 12 rods to the place of beginning. Barry County, Michigan. Commonly known as 733 S Church St, Hastings, Ml 49058 The redemption period will bo 6 months from tho date of such sate, unless abandoned under MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period will be 30 days from the dale of such sate, or 15 days from Uro MCL 600.3241 a(b) notice, whichever is later; or unless extinguished pursuant to MCL 600.3238. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sate under Chapter 32 of Act 236 of 1961, under MCI. 600.3278, the borrower will be held’responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sate or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your oe'iod of active duty has concluded less than 90 davs ago or if you have been ordered to active duty, pteasecontact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated In this notice. Quicken Loans Inc. Mortgagee/Assigneo Schneiderman & Sherman P.C. 23938 Research Dr. 3&:ngton Hite, Ml 48335 248.539.7400 1406273 (Q1 -09/01-30) 135461 i STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 2020-28414-DE Estate of Paul Kotenko, Jr, deceased. Date of birth: 05/26/1960. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Paul Kotenko, Jr., died 12/11/2019. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against tho estate will be forever barred unless presented to Kathleen A. Kotenko, personal representative, or to both tho probate court at 206 W. Court St.. Hastings. Michigan 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after tho date of publication of this notice. Date: January 30. 2020 Michael A. Shields P39438 Lewis, Reed & Allen, P.C. 136 E. Michigan Avenue, Suite 800 Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007 (269) 388-7600 ' Kathleen A. Kotenko 3600 Elmwood Beach Road Middleville, Michigan 49333 (269)267-6875 ‘ 136347 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice Is given under section 3212 of the revised jud.catu.re act cf 1961. 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage wiil be foreclosed by a sate of the mortgaged premises, or some part cf them, at a public auction sate to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on February 20, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on lhe day of sate. Placing the highest bid at the sate does not automatically entitle tne purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser Is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagors): Robert Peper, a married man Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender's successors andter assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): MidFirst Bank Date of Mortgage: May 17,2017 Date of Mortgage Recording: May 22.2017 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $175,822.29 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and desenbed as- Commencing In the center of the road where Manning Lake Road Intersects the East and West 1/8 line of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 1, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, for a place of beginning, thence North along the center of said road 36 rods, thence duo West 22-1/4 rods, thence South to said East and West 1/8 line, thence East 22-1/4 rods along said lino to the place of beginning. Common street address (if any): 10640 Manning Lake Rd, Delton, Ml 49046-8609 Tne redemption period shall bo 6 months from the date of such saio, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If Vie property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of tho Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to tho person who buys tho property at tho mortgage foreclosure sate or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner; If you are a m.litary service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, ptease contact the attorney for the party foreclosing tho mortgage at tho telephone number stated In this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: January 23,2020 Trott Lavr, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington HNs, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1407132 (01-23X02-13) 135878 None, ol , Notice Is giveni pA 236, 600 32^2 ludicature act of 1S • w. I b3 . ■ that the foliow.og ^^pm.sns.cr, , a sale of the mcrtgJPto b ’ ® them, at a at ’he of hSdte^ for cash or cash<e st.irt p,On t ,g circuit court In Bd’H The anioun{ d J ‘ ’ PM. on February 20. |f)e «nt due on the mortgage may t* does mo h'ghwt W « f' and entitle the purchi).te ,cr‘ the property. A P0'^*',*%! doegcontact the county <^. e which mn c\ g insurance compare*L y Ja“b S'“-a '- m Original MW9J* Electronic PegXhon Syatem^W^^-e. as ncmareo (or lender and lender's Fomctoc ng AssV*& jg,^' Mtcunt claimed due on<»•«not.-ce: S75.931.67 Oescnoticn ot the modg-1^J Premises- Situated VILLAGE OFFREEPORf Xed S o' WE n9Jo the plat thereof 22 ot Bony County ReSmmon street address (if any): 120 cheny St. Freeport, Ml 49325-9484 The redemption period “ "'o^hs from the date ol such sale. abandoned in accordance with MCL 600J‘4'a- or. ,1 the sublet real property is used for agdcJpurposes as detiled by MCL 600 3240(16). If the property is so'd */^closure sate under Chapter 32 of the Revised Jud.oaturo Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3276 the borrower will be held responsible to the person*!'0 buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale a to tne mortgage holder for damagng the propel during the redemption period. . . Attention homeowner: If you are a military serv.ee member on active duty. P’-fiod of *ctive duty has concluded less than 90 days ago. or if you have been ordered to active (My. P^ase contact the attorney for the party foredosteg the mortgage at the telephone number stated m tt,tS notice. Thia notice is from a deb! coltector. Date of notice. January 23.2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 14075G3 (01-23)(02-13) 136095 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate Estate of Bj't.i'a t. Jetka, Deceased. Date of b»nh: 4/17/1926. B.vbnra I Jeska Trust, dated Juno 27. 1995, as amended TO AIL CREDITORS NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Barbara L. Jeska. wlio I'-.cd at 14060 Enzon Road. Pra.-rievi.lo Township, 1/ ch.qan 49080, died on January 10. ?020. Tho decedent established the Batbare L Jeska Trost, dVed June 27, 1995, as amended Creators of lhe decedent are notified that all da>ms against tho Trust and the Estate wi! be forever baned unless presented to Eric E Joska Trustee of the above referenced Trost, within four (4) months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: January 20,2020 Trustee' Eric F. Jeska 3915 Observation Avenue Kalamazoo, Ml 49004 Attorney; M chad A Sh.e'ds Lewis Reed & Aiten P.C. 136 E. Michigan Avenue, Suite 600 Kalamazoo, Ml 49007 (269)388-7600 SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING January 0, 2020 - 7:00 p.m. Regular moet;ng catted to order and Pledge of Aiteglance. Prosent; Walters, Bellmore, James. Watson. Hawthorne, Greenfield Absent. Spencer (excused) Afjproved the Agenda Approved the Consent Agenda Monthly Treasurer’s Report Monthly Clerk’s Vouchc*/PayroU Report Accepted Second Reading and Adoption of Ordinance *2019-174 - Amendments to the Zoning Ordinance pertaining to GAAMPS • Approved Die Prepay Plan for Algonqum Lak tj 2020 Weed Control Adjournment 8:16 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Attest»xf to by. Larry Watson. Supervisor 136203 Notlco of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given unde* section 3212 of tne revised judicature act of 1961. 1961 PA 236. MCL 600.3212; that the fo'lo.wng mortgage v/ii! be foreclosed by Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement a sate of the mortgaged premises, or some part of Notice is g.ven under section 3212 of the revised them, at a pub! c auction sate to the highest bidder judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236. MCL 600.3212. for cash or cashier's check at the place cf hc'dmg the that the fo'lowing mortgage wiil be foreclosed by circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of PM. on February 13. 2020. Thp amount due on the them, at a public auction sate to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding the mortgage may bo greater cn the dry of sate. Placing c:rcuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 the highest bid at tho sate does not automatically PM, on February 20, 2020. The amount due on the entitle the purchaser to free and ctear ownership cf mortgage may be greater on tho day of sate. Placing the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to tho highest bid at tho sate docs not automatically contact the county register of deeds office or a bite onlitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of Insurance company, cither of v/h ch may charge a fee the property. A potential purchaser Is encouraged to for this Information: contact the county register of deads office or a title Name(s) of the mortgagors)- Jordan Ashley Mack, Insurance company, either of which may charge a fee an unmarried woman for this information: Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Name(s) of trio mortgagcr(s): Adnan C Endsley, a Registration Systems. Inc., as mortgagi-e, as nominee married man for lender and lender’s successors ar.d/of assigns Orig-nal Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Foreclosing Assignee (if any): AmenArst Financial ' Registration Systems, Inc. Corporation Foreclosing Assignee (if any): AmeriFirst Financial Date of Mortgage: May 22.2018 Corporation Date of Mortgage Recording: June 8,2018 Date of Mortgage: October 26.2016 Date of Mortgage Recording: November 17.2016 Amount claimed due cn date of notice: $86,993.47 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $101,55528 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated Description of the mortgaged premises- Situated In City of Hastings. Barry County, Michigan, and ’ in City of Hastings, Barry County. Michigan, and described as: Lot(s) 3. Block 7 of Kenfteld's 2nd • described as: Lot 5 of Block 6 of Chamberlain's Addition to the City of Hastings according to the Plat addition to the City. Formerly Village of Hastings, Barry thereof recorded in Uber 1 of Plats. Page 37 of Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded Plat County Records thereof, as recorded in Uber 1 of Plats, page 7. Common street address (if any): 722 E Clinton SL ‘ Common street address (if any): 236 W Nelson St, Hastngs, Ml 49058-2414 Hastings, Ml 49058-2566 Tho redemption period shall be 6 months from tho . The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sate, unless determined abandoned in date of such sate, unless determined abandoned In accordance with MCL 600.3241 a; or. H the subject real . accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or, If the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). by MCL 600.3240(16). If tha property is sold at foreclosure sa'e under If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will bo held responsible to the person who buys the property at the responsible to the person who buys tho property at the mortgage foreclosure sate or to the mortgage holder mortgage foreclosure sate or to the mortgage hokler for damaging tho property during the redemption for damagng tho property during tho redemption period. period. Attention homeowner If you are a military service Attention homeowner: If ycu are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty member on active duty, if your period cf active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have has concluded less than 90 days ago. or If you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the been ordered to active duty, p’ease contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. telephone number stated in this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice; January 23,2020 Date of notice: January 16, 2020 Trott Law, P.C. Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 Farmington HHIs, Mf 48334 (248) 642-2515 (248)642-2515 1406922 1407311 (0l-16)(02-06) 135788 (01-23R02-13) 135899 FORECLOSURE NOTICE Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on activo duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or If you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for tho party foreclosing the mortgage at tho telephone number stated in this notice. Notice of foreclosure by advertisement. Notice is given under section 3212 of the tevised judicature act of 1961. 1961 PA 236. MCL 600 3212, that the following mortgage writ be foreclosed by a sate of the mortgaged premises, or soma,part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 01:00 PM, February 27, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on tha day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sal^ does not NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE BY ADVERTISEMENT. automatically entitle the purchaser to freaand clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised encouraged to contact tho county register pf deeds ludicaturo act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, office or a title insurance company, either of which that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale may charge a fee for this information. Default has of the mortgaged promises, or some part of them, at been mado in the conditions of a certain mortgage a public auetten sale to the highest bidder for cash or made by Richard S Saylor Jr, a married qian to cashier’s check at tho place of holding the circuit court Fifth Thud Mortgage - Ml, LLC, Mortgagee, dated In BARRY County, starting promptly at 1:00 pun., on May 15. 2015, and recorded on Juno 5, 2015, as February 13. 2020. The amount due on the mortgage Document Number: 2015-005592, Barry County may be greater on the day of the sate. Placing the Records, said mortgage was assigned to Fifth highest bid at the sate does not automatically entitle Third Bank, National Association, successor to the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the Fifth Third Bank, as successor by merger to Fifth property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to Third Mortgage Company by an Assignment contact the county register of deeds office or a title of Mortgage dated July 29, 2015 and recorded insurance company, either of which may charge a August 06, 2015 by Document Number: 20)5­ fee for this information. MORTGAGE INFORMATION: 007715, on which mortgage there Is claimed to be Default has been made in the conditions of a certain due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred mortgage made by Rodney Esseltine and Bonnie K. Ten Thousand Seven Hundred Seventy-Four and Esseltine, whose address is 9349 Lost Trail Drive, 29/100 ($110,774.29) including Interest at the Delton, Michigan 49046. as original Mortgagors, rate of 3.37500% per annum. Said premises are to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., situated in the Township of Assyria. Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at the being a mortgage dated January 31, 2008. and northwest comer of the east half of the southwest recorded on December 1,2008 as document number quarter of section 26. town 1 north, range 7 west; 20081201-0011.157 , Barry County Records, State of thence south along tho west line of said east half Michigan. Said mortgage is now held through mesne of the southwest quarter. 773 feet, thence east at assignments by Carrington Mortgage Services, right angles to said west line 295 feet to lhe true LLC, as assignee as documented by an assignment place of beginning; thence east 426 feet: thence dated February 20. 2014 and recorded on July 2, north parallel with said west line of the east half of 2014 as document number 2014-006286, Barry tho southwest quarter a distance of 355 f00t more County Records. Michigan, on which mortgage there or less to the centerline of Jones Road; thence ' is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of northwesterly along said centerline 510 fcQt moro • SEVENTY-ONE THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED or less to a point which lies east 295 feet from said THIRTY-ONE AND 73/100 DOLLARS ($71,331.73). west lino of the cast half of the southwest quarter; Said premises are situated in tha Township of Hope. thenco south parallel with said'west line 659 feet Ccunty of Barry. State of Michigan, and are desenbed moro or less to the point of beginning. Subject to as: LOTS 9 AND 10 OF LEINAAR PLAT, ACCORDING an easement over the northeasterly 33 feet thereof TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED for public highway purposes. Comfnon|y known IN LIBER 4 OF PLATS ON PAGE 39. Street Address: as: 9350 E JONES RD. BELLtvUE, Ml 49021 If the 9349 Lost Trail Drive, Delton, Michigan 49046 The property is eventually sola at oreclosure sate, the redemption period shall be 6 months from the date redemption period will bo 0.00 months from tho of such sate, unless the property 15 determined date of sate unless tho property js abandoned or abandoned in accordance with MCLA § 600.3241a used for agricultural purpose^, n property is in which case the redemption period shall bo 30 days determined abandoned in aocordanCe with MCL from the date of the sale. If fhe property is sold at a 600.3241 and/or 600.32413. 10 redemption period foreclosure sate under Chapter 32 of tha Revised will bo 30 days from thc date cf 5^ Of 15 days after statutory notice, wtveneyer js )atef Jud caturo Act of 1961, pursuant to MCLA § 600.3278, property is presumed to for agricultural the borrower will ba held responsible to the person purposes prior to the date no foreclosure sale who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure pursuant to MCL 600 3240. redemption period sate or to the mortgage holder tor damaging the Is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL f • 78, if property property during the redemption period. THIS FIRM is sold at a foreclosure no bonovrer(s) will IS A DEBT COLLECTOR AHFMPTING TO COLLECT be held responsible to IhJ who buys the A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN property at lhe mortgage lore Ga!e Qf tQ (hQ WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. ATTENTION mortgage holder for damafl" 9 e property during HOMEOWNER IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SERVICE the redemption period. TO a^^ChaSLRS: 1 he MEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY, IF YOUR PERIOD OF foreclosing mortgagee car’ ’J’Jhe sate In that ACTIVE DUTY HAS CONCLUDED LESS THAN 90 event, your damages are.' teittod solely to DAYS AGO. OR IF YOU HAVE BEEN ORDERED TO ttte return of the bid amou at sale, plus ACTIVE DUTY, PLEASE CONTACT THE ATTORNEY •merest. Dated: January fQ. Z^ndali S. Miller FOR THE PARTY FORECLOSING THE MORTGAGE AT & Associates, P.C. Attorney‘ F‘hh Third Bank, THE TELEI’HONE NUMBER STATED IN THIS NOTICE. National Association, suCC% T^h Third Bank, Dated: January 16,2020 For more information, please as successor by 1 . * ’hud Mortgage contact the attorney for tho party foreclosing: Kenneth Company 43252 Wood’*'1 Suita 180. Bloomfield Hilts, Ml mt?,5 9?00 Hours: J. Johnson, Johnson, Blumberg. & Associates. LLC, 9-00 a.m. - 5:oo p.mN0, WlW508-1 5955 Wes! Main Street. Suite 18, Kalamazoo, Ml 491XM. Tefvphone: (312) 541-9710. Fite No - Ml 19 (01*30X02-20) 136513 4033 1356-19 (01-16K02 06} Attention homeowner; If you are a military service member on active duty, If your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, ptease contact thc attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated In this notice. • Notice of foreclosure by advertisement. Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of tho mortgaged premises, cr some part of them, at a public auction sate to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at tho place of bolding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1.-00 PM on FEBRUARY 6, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purefuser to free and ctear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title Insurance company, either of which . may charge a fee for this information. Default has been, made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Brandon Clement, unmarried man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems. Inc., as nominee for tender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated November 15, 2017 and recorded November 22,2017 m instrument Number 2017-011820 Barry County Records. Michigan. Sa*d mortgage is now held by AmeriHome Mortgage Company. LLC, by ass’-gnrnent. There is claimed to bo due at tho date hereof the sum of Ono Hundred Ten Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-Eight and 10/100 Dollars ($110,458.10), inc’uding interest at 4.5% per annum. Under the power of sate contaned in said mortgage and tho statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sate of tne mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the place of holding tho circuit court within BonyCounty. Michigan at 1:00 PM on FEBRUARY 6, 2020. Said premises are located in the Village of Middleville, Barry County Michigan, and are described as: Lot 36, Johnson?. Addition to the Village of Middtevilte, nccord ng to tho plat thereof recorded in Liber 1 of plats, Page 2. B-vry County Records. 411 Sherman Street. Middleville. Michigan 49333 The redemption perxxi shall be G months from the date of such sate, unless dotemtnod abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600 3241a, m which case the redemption period sha'.i be 30 days from tha date of such sate. If the property Is sold ui foredcc-ute sate, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, lhe borrower will be hete responsible to Iho person who buys Lhe property at tho mortgage foreclosure sate Of to the mortgage holder for d.xm.vgn to tlie property during the redemption period. Dated; January 9.2020 Filo No. 19-012511 Finn Name: Ortons PC Firm Address: 1650 Wtert Bg Beavw Road. Troy Ml 48084 Firm Phono Number. (248) 502 1400 (01 09X01-30) • , j . ’ ,’ • �.M Pape 12--•n.-™ay, y.- y 10, ’02C -- H**- Hastings Banner ’ ■ ■ ■ fl ■ I VanStee puts in career high as TK tops Wolves . . Bittl Bremer ’.*■ Sports Id'.or Digitizing and pre- rsmg tire Ihomnpplc 'Kellogg aihlcfre record is an ongoing proves?. ‘.for athletic director Brian Hammer. re there are Kmiicrs in the gymnasium to 2 update and correct. Many accomplishments i_-hiay have been lost lo time. Hammer doesn’t -Jfouv where to begin co look for thc most •/points ever scored by a ihomapple Kellogg .'jar.siiy girK’ basketball player. TK varsity .head coach Ross lambiu didn’t haw that 2 cumber off lire top of his head Tuesday night. • ’ Thomappfc’ junior Paige VanStee •Jeems like she’d be the last one to worry -jibout any kind of mdh.’diial accomplishment fhke that a: this p>im anyway She w.i> just (.Satisfied that her career-high 37 points ^^besday night were enough to recure the -Trojans a 65 59 Geters over Wyoming in A^Iiddhwilic - upping f’K’s record to 8-1 over• all and OK Gold Conference. ■‘She plays so hard. 37 points. and how many ol’there docs die ret from being in the passing lanes and taking it down, or crashing lhe boards and going up .strong and making plays. She is a great all-around player.” I,ambit/ said. “She makes teammates better and is always looking to make lhe winning play. Honestly, she scored 37 tonight and lie would be just as happy scoring seven as long as we get the win. She just wants to w in more than anybody. When you have a player with her talent and willing to make all those plays that some players don’t want to. all those hus­ tle plays, that is a great combination. 1 was really proud of her.” The Trojans trailed the Wolves by its many as nine points throughout thc second quarter and early into thc third before a 10-0 run nudged them in front 43-41 with 2:20 to go in lhe third. VanStee assisted on thc Trojans’ first bucket of ihe nj half, after a defensive rebound, had au offensive pul-back, knocked down a p;jjr of , throws. and had a steal that led to thc, . bucket by Tyah Jefferson in transition - ajj during that first fivc minutes of thc second half "We played well on ofTensc’ sPaccd lhc floor and just attacked the rim,” VanStee said. “When I attacked it opened up girls on the other side of (he basket and we just kept mov­ ing it around wc|| Wc made some plays.” Nearly all nf hef came in thc paint. VanStee knocked down one three-pointer and went five of ,six a lbc free throw line. Jefferson had | ] points for TK. and Haven Beyer, Hailey Campbell and Claudia Wilkinson chippy in four points apiece, with Campbell, JeffCrson and Beyer all doing solid work on the g|ais aj0Ilg with VanStee. IK led 45-44 at the end of three quarters, but a turnover led to a Wyoming free throw that lied the game. It was thc kind of turnover that put TK in n hole in the first half. “Defensively we were slow to rotate a cou­ ple times (in the first half), got out of position, and they got open looks.’’ Lambitz said. "They’ve got some really good shooters.! hey knocked some shots down, and we were even out of position where they got some rebounds and got put-backs. We didn’t take care of the ball real well at the lop either, and wc had some bad passes. Give them credit for forcing us to make the bad passes, and they were able lo take some down the other way and get some transition baskets a lot more in the first half than I would have liked to see.” For the most part, the Trojans cleaned up those turnovers that turned to Wyoming lay­ ups in the second half. An offensive rebound led to an open Iff Thornapple Kellogg junior forward Tyah Johnson sets up for a three-point attempt during her team’s OK Gold Conference victory over visiting Wyoming Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Thornapple Keliogg’s Haven Beyer puts a shot up over Wyoming's Taejah Cross during their OK Gold Conference match-up al Thornappie Kellogg High School Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Thornapple Kellogg junior Paige VanStee flips an assist behind her head after getting on the floor to secure a loose ball created by the Trojans' full-court pressure against Wyoming during the second half Tuesday. VanStee had a career-high 37 points in the Trojan victory in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) three-pointer in the corner that Jefferson knocked down lo put thc Trojans in front 48-45 a minute into the fourth quarter. Jefferson then got a deflection on thc other end that eventually led to a basket by VanStee to stretch the lead to five. TK’s lead grew to as many eight points in the fourth quarter before the Wolves closed back in to within four points. Taejah Cross led Wyoming with lb points. Teammate Michelle McGee had 12 points and McKenzie Ruppert nine. “We lift each other up a Jot.” VanStee said. “We pat each other on the back a lol and keep each other accountable, make sure what we’re doing what we’re supposed to d >. We try and keep each others’ heads up a Jot.” The TK ladies will face their biggest test of lhe season so far when they play host to East Grand Rapids Friday. The 12-1 Pioneers are ranked eighth in the state in Division i. with their only loss coming at thc hands of No. 2 Hudsonville. Thc Trojans scored a 48-28 non-conference victory at Northview last Friday. Trojans overmatched W uvfefee® « ,* Brett Bremer ’ Sports Editor •2 Thornapple Kellogg opened OK Gold •Conference action with a victory over »Wayland early this month. , 11k- Trojans are still chasing conference ’ victory number two. Wyoming used its combmation of size, speed and outstanding .shooting lo score a 96-63 OK Gold win over the Ihomapple Kellogg varsity boys' basketball team in Middleville Tuesday. Tight perimeter defense and Wyoming senior guard Menaliol McGee was in the lane ready to finish al the rim or dish off to an open teammate. When the Trojans were a step off, McGee buried shots from the outside. McGee,finished with 45 points, somehow managing to best the 37 put up by Trojan junior forward Paige VanStee in thc girls’ varsity contest that proceeded the boys’ game. McGee knocked down 12 three-pointers in the ballgame. He had 16 points in the second quarter and 15 more in the third. He Svas the only guy in double-figures for lhe Wblves. who did have nine different guys sconj. TK got 15 jxnnts front Austin VanElst. including a couple of second-half dunks. Nolan Dahley had 13 points and Cole Shoobridge 11 for theltejans who fall to 2-9 overall this season. TK had its ups and downs throughout the evening, handling the Wolves’ pressure okay at times and other times allowing turnovers Jind quick baskets to come fast and furious. Wyoming scored the first ten points of lhe bailgame. VanElst had been on the bench, with two mostly unlucky fouls, for nearly a minute and a half when TK got its first bucket 3:16 into the ballgame. A little 7-0 run capped by a three-pointer from Levi VanderHeide had TK within 17-11 with two minutes to go in that opening quarter, but it was a struggle for the Trojans just to remain w ithin ten points of lhe Wolves for the next couple minutes. Eventually, McGee hit back-to-back threes and turned a stea| inl0 a bucket to push his team’s advantage to 32'16’ ,,e sccrcd 13 points in about a minute and a half as his team worked its |e;i<] lowarjs 20 jxoints for the first time. It was 54.33 at the half. The Wolves are‘IlOw 9-1 overall this sea­ son. with their On|v jefeat a two-point loss on the road at Grand Rapids Christian. TK returns t0 aclion al home Friday against East Grand Rapi, The IK boys h.,\now dropped five in a tow. Northview Iofed a 62-48 win in a «on-conference b dleame Mineville last Friday. ‘u- Thornupplo Kellogg junior gunrd Alex Bonnoirm drives 3round Wyoming’s Corio Bass during tho Wolves win in Middleville Tuesday evening (Photo by Brett Bremer) See us for color c°Pies> one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. Thot nappie Kellogg junior center Austin tmiod Williams as he tries to goi lo the rim during theVanElst second is half ot o t>v • Wyoming . s Ouincy contest Tuesday in Middleville. (Photo by Breit Bremer) ° < G°,d Con,erence j_Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �The Hxsunos Banner - Thursday. January 30.2020 P»9» « HHS pair finalists for NlHS** Scholar-Athlete awards The 120 finalists for the Michie an i i ScWl Athletic Aswiation's Seho£ Aih ” ...... size. Aw ards for .hesthwl Every MHSAA member high school could ed by Farm Bureau Insurance, have been submit as many applications as there are announced and among (he honorees are scholarships available in its classification, and H,Stings Hannah Johnson and William could have more than one finalist. Midland Roosien. Dow has four finalists this year while Cass The Saxon duo has been honored among Cit) and Ann Arbor Pioneer each have three. Seventeen schools each have two finalists: thc top Class B scholar-athletes in in the state To be eligible tor the award, students must Ada Forest Hills Eastern, Battle Creek have a cumulative grade-point average of Lakeview, Caro. Chelsea, Bloomfield Hills 150 (on a 4.0 scale) and previously have won Crnnbrook Kingswood, Fowler, Grosse lie. a varsity letter in at least one sport in which Haslett. Hastings. Holland, Ida. North the MHSAA sponsors a postseason tourna­ Muskegon. Petersburg Summerfield, Richland ment. Students also were asked to respond to Gull I-ake.St. Johns.Three Oaks River Valley a series ot short essay questions, submit two and Troy Athens. Multiple-sport participation remains the letters of recommendation and a 500-word norm among applicants. The average sport essay on lhe importance of sportsmanship in participation rate of the finalists is 25. There educational athletics. are 86 three-plus sport participants in the I’hc program, in its 31st year, has recog­ finalists field, and all but one of lhe 28 sports nized student-athletes since the 1989-90 in which the MHSAA sponsors postseason school year and again this winter will honor tournaments are represented. 32 individuals from MHSAA member schools Of 424 schools which submitted applicants. who participate in at least one sport in which 12 submitted the maximum allowed. This the Association sponsors a postseason tourna­ year, 1,493 applications were received. AH ment. applicants will be presented with certificates Farm Bureau Insurance underwrites the commemorating their achievement. Scholar-Athlete Awards and will present a Thc applications were judged by a 66-mcm$1.000 scholarship to each recipient. Since ber committee of school coaches, counselors, the beginning of the program, 800 scholar­ faculty members, administrators and board ships have been awarded. members from MHSAA member schools. Scholarships will be presented proportion­ Selection of the 32 scholarship recipients will ately by school classification, with 12 schol­ take place in early February. Class C and D arships to be awarded to Class A student-ath­ scholarship recipients will be announced Feb. letes, six female and six male; eight scholar­ 4, Class B scholarship recipients will be ships will be awarded to Class B student-ath­ announced Feb. 11 and Class A scholarship letes, four female and four male; six scholar­ recipients will be announced Feb. 18. To honor thc 32 Scholar-Athlete Award ships will be awarded to Class C student-ath­ letes, three female and three male; and four recipients, a ceremony will take place during scholarships will be awarded to Class D stu­ halftime of the MHSAA Division 3 Boys dent-athletes, two female and two male. In Basketball Final, March 28 at the Breslin addition, two scholarships will be awarded Student Events Center in East Lansing. at-large to minority recipients, regardless of TK cheer on top at second OK Gold/Green jamboree Still taking the ten-point deduction in round two Wednesday, after being short-handed at their own invitational the week before, the Trojans finished on top at Hamilton. The Thomapple Kellogg varsity competi­ tive cheer team bested lhe host Hawkey es by .7 points to finish in first place at lhe second OK Gold/Green jamboree of lhe season. TK, Hamilton, Zeeland West and Wayland all were hit with ten-point deductions in round two at the jamboree. TK finished the evening with a score of 685.60 to Hamilton’s 684.90. Byron Center was third at 676.28, ahead of Forest Hills Eastern 650.78, Zeeland West 570.20. Zeeland East 55450. Wayland 534.80 and Wyoming 446.90. Thc Trojans earned scores of 218.70 in round one, 186.80 in round two and 280.10 in round three. Hamilton was a bit better than the Trojans in rounds one and three, but a six and a half point edge in round two for TK was enough to get the Trojans the victory. Byron Center's 189.98 was the top score in round two Wednesday. DK-TK-HHS freestylers have goed battles in dual with Plainwell Delton Kellogg-Thomapple KelloggHastings (DK-TK-HHS) freshman Jack Kensington beat out junior teammate Jon Arnold in one of the best finishes of the night at the Community Education and Recreation Center in Hastings Thursday. Kensington took the 100-yard freestyle in 5532 seconds, finishing just over half a sec­ ond ahead of Arnold who touched thc wall in 55.88. The ten points from their 1-2 finish for thc DK-TK-HHS varsity boys* swimming and diving team wasn’t enough to get their team in front of Plainwell in a non-confcrence dual Thursday. The Plainwell Trojans scored a 103-73 victory over their hosts. DK-TK-HHS also had three other guys score victories. Senior Thomas Barnard won the 100-yard backstroke in 1 minute 1255 seconds. Junior Sam Randall won the 100yard butterfly in 57.76. Senior Andrew Tuokkola took the 200-yard individual med­ ley in 2:20.84. Kensington and Arnold had a good race for the runner-up spot in the 50-yard freestyle behind Plainwell junior Isaac Viviano. Viviano won the sprint in 24.61. Kensington was second in 25.07 and Arnold third in 25.19. The DK-TK-HHS team will host CaledoniaLowell-South Christian Thursday, Jan. 30, and then travel to the Ottawa Hills Invitational Saturday. SAXON SPORTS SHORTS JV Wrestling pie Hastings JV wrestlers took part in an individual tournament hosted by East Jackson Saturday. The Saxons’Carneran Seeber and I^nny Teunessen Ixith were 4-1 on the day while teammate Gili Perez, finished lhe day with three wins. Saxons Justus Forell. Joe Goggins and Danny Weatherly each had two wins on the day. and 7’ristin Ixary' and Nathan Smith each had one win. JV Boys’ Bowling The Hastings JV boys’ bowling team scorcd a 27-3 victory over Marshall Thursday, with 7'yler Sue and Drew Rhodes each earn­ ing two match-play points for the Saxons and Christian Stacy. Steven VanOoy and Kyler Madden earning one each. One of the high­ lights of the dual was a 166 from Madden. The JV boys fell to Coldwater. 20-10, at Hastings Bowl 1'uesday. VanOoy rolled games of 143 and J 75. Sue a 177 and Madden added a 205 and a 162. Rhodes scored a 193 for the Saxons. JV Girls’ Bowling The Hastings J V girls’ bowling team scored an 18-3 win over a mixed boys* and girls* team from Coldwater Tuesday at Hastings Bowl. Abby Barton rolled a 168 and Ry lee Miller a 143 for thc Saxons. The Hastings team had a high Baker game score of 177.; JV Boys’ Basketball The Saxon JV boys’ basketball team fell 71-30 to Marshall Thursday. TJ Russell led thc Saxon scorers with 17 points. JV Girls’ Basketball The Hastings JV girls’ basketball team bested visiting Marshall 38-26 Thursday. Chelsea Ertncr led all scorers, finishing with 19 points for Hastings. Bailey Lewis led the Saxons in steals and assists. The Saxon team committed just three turnovers all game. William Roosien Brvtt Bremer Spo% Editor A pair of short-handed goals in the third period helped lhe Lowell/Calcdonia/ Thomapple Kellogg (LCTK) varsity hockey team come from behind to knock off the fifth ranked team in the stale in Division I Saturday. LCTK was a perfect 2-0 over the weekend at the OK Red Conference Showcase at Griff’s Georgetown in Hudsonville, besting No. 5 Grandville 4-1 in its final game of the event Saturday following h 3-0 shut out of Grand Haven Friday (Jan. 24). The LCTK skaters dropped seven of eight contests between Dec. 13 and Jan. 18 a string that culminated in a disappointing defeat to lhe East Grand Rapids Pioneers. LCTK bounced back on its home ice against East Kentwood, scoring an 8-1 win Jan. 21, and then roared into lhe Red showdown last weekend. “We have figured a number of things out." LCTK head coach Phil Wendecker said. "The biggest thing for us is a two pan shift in atti­ tude. Pan one was defining the reason for being here. There is a difference in playing the game to have a good time with your bud­ dies and playing the game to try and be a champion. So I challenged the buys to show me why they were here, or what they wanted out of playing together. Was it just to have fun, or are we here to try and do something special? “The second part is that there are a few good teams that we have historically strug­ gled against. My next challenge for them was not to be afraid. The message Was •ljiesc guys put their skates on the same way we do. don’t get caught watching, don’t back down, don’t change what we do or how w-c niay fail, but if we are going fail, let’s do it at or best.’” Wade Fridley scored a short-handed goal two and a half minutes into the third period, with assists from Dylan Olsen and Owen Carpenter, to lie the contest with Grandville al 1-1. Four and a half minutes later, LCTK t(x>k a 2-1 lead on a goal by K>'an Kieliszewski that was assisted by Austin Douma. With Grandville pressing for an eqUa|j7cr in the closing minutes, Doulna scorcd a short-handed goal with L59 t0 p|ay Q|scn added an empty-netter wdn 65 seconds left on Hannah Johnson — i. - -------------------------■—————— The Lowell/CaledoniaThornapple Kellogg varsity hockey team celebrates its win in the OK Red Conference Showcase at Griff's Georgetown in Hudsonville Saturday after a 4-1 victory over a Grandville team that went into the weekend ranked fifth in the state in Division 1. the clock to seal the win lor LC I'K - moving the team's record lo 7-10 overall this season. For two periods Saturday, the fifth-ranked Bulldogs had the edge. Brendan Bourne scored a short-handed goal for the Bulldogs with 5:42 left in lhe opening period and that lead held until lhe opening minutes of lhe third period. Grandville (11-6-1) only had one mure shot on goal than lhe LCTK skaters did all night. Tommy Near made 30 saves in net for LCTK. “1 he boys bought into that and the result was great,’’ Wendecker said. “Wc stuck to our game plan, and trusted in the process. Those things combined with the altitude shift made a huge difference. I’m hoping this stretch of success helps the boys see what the) can achieve with the right mindset. Last weekend that carry through the home stretch.” LCTK is in Chelsea this weekend to take on Pinckney and Petoskey at thc Arctic Coliseum. The team will be back in action on this side of lhe state taking on Grand Rapids Christian ar lhe Engles Ice Center Wednesday (Feb. 5) Alex Skibinski, Douma and Isaac Haulala scored lhe three goals for LCTK in lhe shut out of Grand Haven Friday, with Douma and Hautala scoring on the power play. Douma. who leads LCTK with 18 points on the sea­ son. had two assists. Olsen, Caqxmter, Zach Schneider and Kieliszewski had one assist each. Garrett Walker made 30 saves in goal in the win over the Buccaneers. was a lot ot fun lo be a part of. I’d like to see Grapplers Association has half dozen champions at Lakewood tourney I'hc Grapplers Association also h.id Logan Austin Friddle, Cameron Humphrey and Aden Armstrong place third and Patton Boomer and Jordan Humphrey place fourth. Suftfin all took championships in their divi­ 4X5 is? ..........Kerby. —Max —Schnurstcin, * Lakewood MYWAYTo^^Mhs,,,"'c (ax Balderson. Bella 1 ndd|t. ■> sions for the club. Carter Hill, Riley Furrow, Ashtyti Denton. I tike Klingc. Kade Case and Maverik Peake Unjah JooMberns. Pak->» placed second. �_ a n»e Mailings Hastings Banner £020 - Tb* Saxons make it four |.S wins on the season ^Hastings added two victories to its btenlMc-8 Athletic Conference record Wockiog off Marshall and Coldwater a pt Quad at Hastings High School Wednesday p&ui. f. The22). Saxon vanuty wrestling ream opened. Uk evening with a 52-24 victory over Marshall. Mason Denton kicked off lhe dual for thc Saxons at 130 pounds with a 13-5 major decision. Robby Slaughter, Matthew ‘Thompson, Gabe Trick, Payion Miller and ler Dull followed with five straight pins to pJn the Saxons up 34-0. .'-Jackson Dubois and Shane Dillon also picked up pins for the team and Zach Chipman Hpn on a void. ' Against Coldwater in thc final dual, the Saxons again got off to a strong start again >jih pins from Griftin Seeber, Slaughter and Jnck, and then a disqualification for flagrant misconduct adding another six points for Jfldler. Joe TUmes won against a void in the Uirdinal lbw-up, extending the Saxon lead to 30 to -3. * 'Hastings went on lo a 54-23 win by adding pins from Dubois, Shane Dillon, Cohen Smith aod Denton. -..Hastings was 4-2 in 1-8 duals on lhe season before heading to Parma Western last night. ’ The Saxons built on thc league success Saturday at thc Flushing Duals, wining four of their five duals. “ In lhe first round of the day. thc team took it’s only loss in a tough match against Clio, 33-45. Zach Chipman started the match off with a quick 16-second pin. He was followed Slaughter and Trick, who also scored pins against Clio. Denton picked up a 4-2 decision, and Carter Smith and Ethan Bennett won on Poids for lhe team. .’-.Against Mt. Morris in round two, the 53xons pulled out a 47-34 win. Dillon started tiff the dual with a 18-3 techmeal fall. The Saxons’ Griffin Seeber nears a pin of Coldwater Vincent durin0 lheir 135* pound bout Wednesday at Hastings High School. (Photo by peny Hard*0) Chipman, Denton and Slaughter followed with pins. Dull. Carter Smith. Dubois and Bennett won on voids. In the first round of the Silver bracket, the Saxons defeated Henry Ford II Utica 44-36. Cohen Smith picked up a 34-second pin to start off thc dual, and was followed by pins from Denton, Slaughter, 'Frick and Dubois. Dillon had an 11-0 major decision, and Dull had a 13-2 major decision. Bennett picked up another win on a void for the team. The Saxons met up with home team Flushing in the fourth round and scored a 39-32 win. Denton started off the dual with a close 3-2 decision, and was followed by Slaughter scoring a 19-3 technical fall, and The Saxons' Zach Chipman (left) fights to break the grasp of Coldwater’s Hashad Abdullah during their 103-pound match-up Wednesday at the I-8 Quad hosted by Hastings High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Seeber earning an 1 |-I tnaj<>r decision to put the Saxons up 12-0 Duh. Carter Smith and Chipman then pulled ou* P’ns‘ Dillon closed Slaughter finished the day with a 5-0 record. Chipman, Denton, Dull and Bennett the dual with a 9-8 decisio*1In the final round of *he day, the Saxons pulled out their closest ">n day» defeat­ ing Grand Ledge 39-37 to finish the day in fifth place. Slaughter picked up the first pin of the dual and was followed by Dull, Chipman and Dillon Neal who also P’cked up pins for Hastings. Tyler Oliver and Bennett picked up victories against voids in the Comet line-up. In the final match of the dual, with the Saxon team up by five points. Denton held his oppo­ nent to a 4-3u decision.only giving up three team points and leaving his team UP by two. all finished 4-1. while Dillon. Trick, and Carter Smith had a 3-2 records. HHS boys outscore Redhawks by 20 points at Marshall Lanes > DK cheer at its best as st preps for SMCCC Finals ©n home mat The Hastings varsity girls’ bowling team scored a 25-5 victory ver Marshall at Marshall Lanes Thursday in Interstate-8 Athletic Conference play. The Saxons swept the two Baker matches and took the two-game match-play series 1259 to 1012, winning both games of the series. Ashland Hoyt and Abby Zull won two match-play points each for the Saxons, and Connie Ricketts took one. The Hastings boys lost a hard-fought dual with the Redhawks 16-14. lhe two teams split the two Baker games and the two-game match-play series, with the Redhawks winning the total pin-fall in each. Gage Richmond had a high-game of 246 for the Saxons to win a match-play point. Paxton Walden won two points for the Saxons and John Hinkle one. Hinkle rolled a 210 game. The Coldwater boys and girls both bested the Saxons Tuesday at Hastings Bowl. The Cardinal girls scored a 28-2 win and the boys’ topped the Saxons 24-6. Hastings head coach Deanna Rhodes said everyone bowled good games, with solid scores of 178 from Daisy Kerby and Hoyt tallying a 188 and a 205. The Hastings boys got a 214 from Cameron Eaton, and a 194 and a 196 from Hinkle. The Saxons were scheduled to roll against Pennfield at M-66 Bowl Wednesday and will be back in action at home Tuesday against Jackson Northwest. Gold-medalist Tarpley to open MHSAA’s feadtershop conference • The Delton Kellogg varsity competitive cheer team performs one of its jumps during round one at its DK Panther Invitational Saturday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Thc Delton Kellogg varsity competitive cheer team placed fifth at its own 12-team DK Panther Invitational Saturday, scoring its highest point total of thc season. The Panthers had their best round one and two scores of thc year, and they needed them to hold onto fifth place as the Maple Valley girls put together their best round three of thc season and their best overall score as well to place sixth. East Jordan took thc day’s championship with an overall score of 728.07 points. Sturgis was second with 72457 points, ahead of Pennfield 718.86, Coloma 653.06, Delton Kellogg 638.68, Maple Valley 62754, Vicksburg 612.88, Lawrence 601.68, White Pigeon 598.86, St. Joseph 565JOO, Loy Norrix 52332 and Constantine 275.28, Delton Kellogg’s round one score of 205.90 was the fourth best of the day, a point better than their Southern Michigan Competitive Cheer Conference rivals from Coloma in thc round. DK went on io add a 175.78 in round two and m score of 257J00 in round three. 1 The Maple Valley girls scored a 192.00 in round oi>e and then added a 16554 in round two after a ten-point deduction. Maple Valley closed out the day with a 269.90 in round East Jordan, a Division 4 squad like the Pirrthers and Lions, took the victory with .Seores of 228.95 in round one, 211.82 in round two and 287.30 in round three. Sturgis had the lop round three score of thc day at 29930, with Pennfield not far behind at 292.10. Sturgis was also fops in round two at 3)5 jD8, after a 220.19 in round one. East ,, a with flourish The Delton Kellogg varsity competitive cheer team— ends round 0(10 ." a SCO res of Saturday at its own DK Panther Invitational. Tho highest round one an° 1 lh0 end the season helped DK put up its highest overall point total ot the seaS (Photo by Perry Hardin) Jordan’s round one and two scores were thc best of thc day in those rounds. The Delton Kellogg girls are scheduled to h°s* the SMcrn r.. 4 pun. k Saturday beginning ar v Fin* ’I The first, largest and longest-running pro­ gram of its type in thc country, the Michigan High School Athletic Association’s Women In Sports Leadership Conference will take place Feb. 2-3 at the Crowne Plaza Lansing West. The 24th edition of the conference again will feature three keynote speakers and a vari­ ety of workshops. The program annually attracts upwards of 500 participants, most of them high school female student-athletes. High school students, coaches and adminis­ trators are invited to find registration informa­ tion on the MHSAA Website at www.mhsaa. com by clicking the “Education” tab at lhe top of the home page and then “Women In Sports Leadership” in the left menu under Training & Education. Cost is $50 for students and $60 for adults, not including lodging for those intending lo stay overnight in Lansing. A registration form for lodging also is available on the MHSA/X Website. The theme for this WISL Conference is “The Courage to Lead” - and the opening address wiil be delivered by two-time Olympic women’s soccer gold medalist Lindsay Tarpley. She led Portage Central to the MHSAA Division 2 championship as a sophomore in 2000, was named college soc­ cer’s National Player of the Year in 2003 after leading University of North Carolina to Die NCAA Division I title, and played for the U5. national team until retiring in 2011. She will speak on setting high standards and chal­ lenging one’s self to be a leader throughout life. Michigan State University women’s vol­ leyball coach Cathy George will challenge participants to embrace a growth mindset and believe in themselves and their potential while speaking at the WISL Banquet during thc evening of Feb. 2. George recently com­ pleted her 15th season at MSU and 33rd over­ all as a college head coach. Her 288 wins at MSU are the most in program history, and she has a career record of 653-429 - counting also 11 seasons leading Western Michigan University, five at University of TexasArlington and two at North Dakota State. She has taken 15 teams lo the NCAA Tournament, including MSU to thc Elite Eight in 2017 and Texas-Arlington to the Final Four in 1989. As an athlete, George was a team captain and three-time all-league selection al Illinois State, helping the Redbirds to three NCAA Tournament appearances. Michigan’s 43rd Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson will speak during the opening session Feb. 3 on expanding opportunities for girls and women as athletes, coaches, sport execu­ tives and leaders. She chairs Michigan’s Task Force on Women in Sports, which brings together local and national leaders to develop strategies that support and promote opportu­ nities for girls and women in athletics, and is a founding board member and former CEO of the Ross Initiative in Sports for Equality. Benson is a graduate of Harvard University Law School and expert on civil rights law. education law and election law. As dean of Wayne State University Law School, she was the youngest woman in U.S. history to lead a top-100 accredited law school, and she became in 2015 one of the youngest inductees into the Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame. Workshops offered during the W1SL con­ ference include topics on coaching, leaching and learning leadership; sports nutrition and performance, and injury prevention; empow­ erment and goal-setting, and building team chemistry and program culture. A complex itinerary is available on the MHSAA Website. The WISL Banquet will include thc presen­ tation of this year’s Women In Sports Leadership Award. The winner will be announced later this month. See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �Tho Hastings Banner — Thursday, January 30. 2020 Page 15 state’s best in opening rounds Saxons iS5*''' Marshall defenders close In from both sides of the lane as Saxon sophomore Brook Youngs works to get a shot off during Friday night’s 1-8 match-up at Hastings High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) . The Saxon varsity ^e!1,lve cheer team performs one of its jumps during round one Saturday at the Otsego Bulldog Classic’ Hastings had the top ore tn each of lhe first two rounds at the 12-team meet, and finished with the day’s highest overall scorq; (Photo by Brett Bremer) Redhawks limit Saxon scoring in 1-8 win Marshall scored a 47-24 victory over the Saxon varsity girls’ basketball team at Hastings High School in Interstate-8 Athletic Conference action Friday. Katie Foster led thc Redhawks with 14 points, nine rebounds and three steals. Marshall improved its record to 6-6 overall this season and 3-4 in the conference with the victory. The Saxons fall to 0-11 overall this season with the loss. They will e on their home court again Friday far an Interstate?? Athletic Conference thbMown’with Coldwater. The Saxons go outside the conference to visit Charlotte Tuesday. ■. Saxon senior Ireland Barber gives a wink to the crowd as the Hastings varsity competitive cheer team goes through its round one routine Saturday at the Otsegcr Bulldog Classic. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ■< The Saxons’ Madison McMasters gets a shot over Marshall’s Elizabeth Dowell during their 1-8 ballgame Friday at Hastings High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Highly ranked Red Raiders handle Lakewood ladies Portland showed it deserves every bit of its fourth-place. Division 3 state ranking Tuesday at the Raiders scorcd a 52-17 non-conference win over visiting I-akcwood Tuesday. ‘‘Defensively we had a few break downs, but worked hard.” Lakewood varsity girls’ basketball coach Kelly Meints said. “Offensively, we struggled to execute against their tight, pressure defense.” Olivia Lang led the Viking team with five points Stockbridge scored a 56-31 win over lhe in Greater Lansing Activities Conference action last Friday. “A competitive first half left us in a good spot, and only down by ten,” Meints said. It was a different story in the second half though as a few defensive breakdowns hurt on one end and there was a struggle getting shots to fall on the other. Sophie Duits had a team-high seven points for Lakewood. Anja Kelley added six points and Ellie Possehn five. The Vikings arc now 2-3 in the GLAC this season and 5-7 overall. They will be back nt it in the GLAC Friday when they take on Perry. The Ramblers edged the Vikings by four points in their first meeting back in December. Ski conference limited to GS due to warm weather *&>*•> SRI whai it could. Bittersweel M >>d “ t job tuving of snow depth loniBhold up lo running peratures it just wul coach Duanc slalom." Caledo snoW we did have was Petrosky said. Th |jk ed )t very fast tonight and m> played into our norc conference wins Caledonia added *°>n°r|(.ad in lhe conferto its resume, extending th ence standings for 1» only ,wo Giant girls’ teams. Each ski Slalom (GS) runs Monday. * wHh just The Caledonia 8irls?*Skiers. Alana Black 22 points from its top “ uoinp third imd was second overall, Imim 'Good added a Emily Dean Jifth- '* 12th-place score for th Portage was of Mattawan 4«. 11 Thornapple Kellogg) pjghting Scots. J points ahead ski (Plamwell/ J nd Kalamazoo * United 75. . , was the girls chain­ Portage's Emma Gnd w run time of . pi.mon^d3y.^(1b>2S11 in her sec- 2736 seconds. Mie au ond run. Black, Hamp and Dean were all under 28 seconds on their first run for Caledonia and Black was the only skier in the girls’ compe­ tition to put together runs of less than 28 sec­ onds, turning in times of 27.95 and 27.96 Lucy VanDemark led the Trojan Ski team with a fourth-place finish. She put together runs of 2825 seconds and 27.77 seconds The Trojan Ski team also had Madison Nagel 11th. Lydia Bacon 14th and Karlev Way 23rd. Thc Caledonia boys won their race with 24 points, ahead of Mattawan 30, Portage 54 and Kalamazoo United 63. . The individual champ on thc boys’ side was Caledonia’s Keegan Beemer who put together runs of 24.76 seconds and 2436 seconds. His teammate Chase Thompson was third overall will) the Scots also using lhe scores from Zach Roy’s eighth-place finish and Reid Goosen’s 12lh-place finish. All four guys finished their second run in less than 26 seconds. Daniel Grid from Portage was die run­ ner-up to Beemer in the individual competi­ tion, putting together runs of 25.01 seconds ami 24.80 seconds. The Hastings varsity competitive cheer team performs during round three at the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference jamboree at Hastings High School Tuesday. (Photo by Dan Gbggins) score in Division 2 for lhe state of Michigan, and are tied for fourth in round two. “We made a change to round one on Monday to improve a section that was not as strong as we wanted. Everyone hit the change w ith confidence and it showed in our improved score. All of our standing back tucks landed last night, which is an absolute result of the drive and determination of this team. Pennfield was second in each of the first two rounds Tuesday, scoring a 227.80 in round one, a 207.40 in round two. The Panthers added a 264.30 in round three, fin­ ishing a point behind Parma Western in that round. Parma Western was third in the day’s over­ all standings with 67136 points, ahead of Northwest 59820, Lumen Christi 5685 and Harper Creek 509.80. “Il was great to come out on top in our home gym. Wc have lhe best parents, fans, and alumni,” Jacinto said. “It was an amazing feeling to be in lhe coaches box last night and feel lhe overwhelming love and support com­ ing from our stands. Il is an amazing program Brett Bremer Sports Editor A second consecutive victory for the Hastings varsity competitive cheer team also came with a couple spots in thc lop ten Division 2 scores of the season Tuesday night. The Saxons won the lnterstate-8 Athletic Conference jamboree they hosted Wednesday night, putting up their top round one and two scores of the season - scores that were high enough lo get them on the list of the lop ten scores in those rounds this winter. The Saxons scored a 233.3 in round one and a 2282 in to be a part of.” round. There was more amazing Saturday as the Those two scores and a 272.2 in round three allowed Hastings to beat runner-up Saxons scored a 22650 in round one, a Pennfield, the only team to finish ahead of thc 212.68 in round two and a 295.70 in round Saxons at the first 1-8 jamboree of thc season, three to win the Bulldog Classic in Otsego. by more than 33 points- Hastings took the. victory with an overall score of 733.66. Pennfield was second 69950 points. The Saxons were juM days removed from winning the championship, after out­ scoring everyone in rounds one and two, at the 12-team Otsego Bulldog Classic Saturday. "Round one and two are really strong, with rooirr to improve.” Ha5t,ngs head coach Linsey Jacinto said after Tuesday’s win. “We Bring in your old photos or pictures currently hold the seventh highest round one Gobles, which won the small school division} title and finished with a total score of 711.63? was lhe only team to outscore thc Saxons in a} round, 'file Tigers managed a 296.40 in round} three to finish. ,4 Hastings had a total score of 734.88 aft»^ dominating each of the first two rounds.^ Hastings was more than ten points better than* Gobles in round one and 65 points better tham anyone else in round one. Kalamazoo Central was the runner-up toj the Saxons in the big school division with ait* overall score of 688.84 - finishing third ovq&-< all behind Gobles. 1 Gull Lake was third in the big school stand-, ings with a score of683.88, ahead of Plainwell! 682.98 and Wayland 635.80. Behind Gobles in the small school division Parchment was second with a score of 682.68r Grand Rapids Catholic Central had 646.8$ points, ahead of Otsego 63036, Hartford" 611.80, South Haven 583.92 and Comstock 52320. •? “We have a little time off before our next meet, which gives us lime to make some changes to round 3 to get that score up where we want it,” Jacinto said after Tuesday’s com; petition. • f The Saxons cheer again Feb. 5 when they host their own SaxonFesl Cheer Invitational. PICTURE SPECIAL. you want reproduced and save. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Htuiner Call 269-945-9554 for more information. 1351 N M-43 • Hwy., Hastings. Ml 49058 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00 - 5:30 �_ . .., .nrv -w 2020 — Tho Hastings Danner Page 16 — Thursday, January 30. * More pins, for and against Panthers , as DK wins two Brett Bremer Sports Editor It was a quick night on the mat for thc Dckon Kellogg varsity wrestling team SAMUsnow 4-3 in conference duals after a 51°4 loss io Uwren and a 48-23 win over ° reached the second period in the dual between the Panthers and Rams, with DK scoring seven pins and the Rams four. The other three weight classes were decided by voids in the line-ups. Just one bout in lhe dual agamst Lawton went the lull sis minutes, with 11 total pins tn the contest including four by DK wrest ers Cadcn Ferris (215 pounds), Hunter Belew (189), Jayden Oms (125) and Alan Rogers Delton Kellogg foreign exchange-student Matthias Homolla works towards a pin of Galesburg-Augusta’s Eathan Conklin during the first period of their 160-pound bout Wednesday at Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) < Charlie Zurhorst (119). Vinnie Quick (135), Matthias 1 lomolla (160), Rogers (171), Belew (189), Ferris (215) and Gage Vincent (103) had pins for DK in the dual with G-A. . **Hying to get them scrappy. They don t scrap well enough" Delton Kellogg head coach Brett Bissett. *'We either get pinned or we’re pinning. J would rather have us wrestling six minutes.” For now, it was w orked to the tune of a 4-3 Southwestern Athletic Conference record this season. The Panthers were scheduled to travel to Coloma for another pair of conference duals last night. . "We're young. We’re so young," Bissett said. "We have kids winning matches and then they revert back to some MYWAY or something - try ing to pull kids over the top of them and then wc end up getting stuck. We’re trying to weed that out of them. It’s a super young team. We only have three kids that have ever wrestled varsity before on the team: Ferris, Belew and Charlie Zurhorst. They’re the only three that have had varsity matches before this year. We have two foreign exchange kids, our 40-pounder and our 60-pounder, and they are actually pretty dang lough." Homolla is the Panthers’ 160-pounder. He was pinned in his bout with Lawton's Andrew O’Donnell, in one of the few bouts to get into the second period in the dual between the Blue Devils and Panthers. Homolla bounced back to pin Galesburg-Augusta’s Eathan Qonklin in lhe middle of the first period of their match. - DK's other exchange student. 145-pounder Pascal Housemaine was pinned in both of his matches Wednesday. Z "They’re pretty solid," Bissett said. "Their technique is pretty solid for never wrestling before this year. TTiat just comes because they The Panthers' Gage Vincent nears as pin of Galesburg-Augusta’s Eric Beatty during the first period of their 103-pound bout at the SAC Quad hosted by Delton Kellogg High School Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) _____ It Delton Kellogg’s Vinnie Quick tries to pull Galesburg-Augusta’s Blake Hollman to his back early in the first period of their 135-pound match Wednesday at Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) listen and pay attention at practice." The two workhorses for the Panther this winter are returning stale qualifiers Belew and Ferris. They both had two quick pins Wednesday. Ferris was a state medalist in Division 3 as a freshman last winter. Bissett has seen both of them working hard, and he said he hasn’t been hiding them from tough matches this winter. He wants them to be ready for the postseason, both for thc individ­ ual slate tournament and the team state tour­ nament. "I think if wc show up and we have got our ducks in a row wc have a chance at a district title," Bissell said. Both Ferris (215) and Belew (189) won flight championships as the DK team returned to action Friday at the Comstock Invitational. "Both looked dominant throughout the eve­ ning.” Bissett said.."All in all we saw some good things out of our inexperienced squad.” "Alan Rogers wrestled well and was domi- nating his semifinal match before gelling in bad position and pinned," Bissett said. "Our foreign exchange students Matthias Homolla and Pascal Housemaine continue to impress me. Matthias was 3-2 on the night and looked much improved. Pascal ended his long night of byes 0-2, but did a lot of things well and was very coachable and gritty.” Bissett was also pleased with his light­ weight freshmen Quick. Bow Arms, Oms, Chase Nevins, Joelle While and Vincent. "They are all showing some life and com­ ing around ns the season nears its end.,” Bissett said. "We’ve got a lot of things to work on but this group shows promise for the future.” Delton Kellogg will head to Bloomingdale for its Division 3 Team District Tournament in a couple weeks, where it will also be joined by Gobles and the Martin/CIimax-Scotts co-op team. The Martin/CIimax-Scotts team was also a part of Wednesday’s Quad, and had results similar to the Panthers’ with a 49-24 win over Galesburg-Augusta and a 43-24 loss to Lawton. DK did score a 54-24 win over the Martin/ Climax-Scolts learn in their conference dual Jan. 15, but Martin/CIimax-Scotts had just eight wrestlers in lhe line-up in the dual with Delton and was up lo ten for its match-ups Wednesday. Study pays off for Saxons in win over Redhawks Brett Bremer Sports Editor The first half of the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference schedule closed with a Saxon victory, their second of the season, Friday night. Marshall 58-43. Hastings varsity boys’ basketball team "We were able to get it done on both ends improved its record to 2-7, getting its first of lhe floor.” Hastings head coach Rich Long _ victory since a Dec. 20 ballgame with Jackson said. "Defensively, jve held eVcryone on Lumen Christi, by knocking off visiting Marsljnll’s team *to under double digits. A . player in <he;focker room said, ’coach, they did everything just like we had practiced and ~ 20f/t ~ Barry Home Show Friday, January 31 • 10am to 8pm Saturday, February 1 • 10am to 6pm BARRY EXPO CENTER 1350 N. M-37 Hwy- Hastings 49058 a? Schondelmayer Bar-B-Q scouted against.’ It felt like we knew what they wanted lo do on every play and worked hard to stop it from happening. Wc also matched that mental preparation with great energy and determination.” Shooting well helped too.The Saxons were 8-of-20 from three-point range after hitting their first four tliree-j»inlers *n l^c ^rsl half. Long said his guys, got the offensive rebound on most of those missed three-point attempts. ( “We were also able to execute our second­ ary set plays to cutfhtrtllieir defensive attack,” (jong said. ; Hastings had seven players score in thc ■ballgame, led by Kirby Beck’s 15 points. Evan Eastman added 12 points and 11 rebounds for the Saxons. "Our energy was also matched by thc excitement and encouragement of our student section and fans," I-ong said. "We are at the mid-season point of a long season and this win will hopefully turn things around after a tough few games prior,” he added. The Saxons start the second swing through the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference season at home Friday against Coldwater, and then will be home again Tuesday for a non-conferencc match-up with Charlotte. Marshall is now 5-6 overall on the season after u loss at East Lansing Tuesday. Jack Crull led the RedHawks with seven points last Friday. Trenton Fuller, Javon Hearron and Nauvion Burnett had six points apiece. Complete 15 Item Buffet with Salad Bar IK II I'lraAC route and support our vendor* and enjoy the Buffet. Quftlion* Call Sandy HO9-fiO7-4H4(i highpomt COMMUNtrV HANK Kevin's Draperies Baiitek Carpet Cleaning Barn Fitters All Weather Seal All Service & Remodel Tony & Dan McKinney Poured Walls Two Brothers ft A Ton! Clark Brothers Buiidmg Contractors Luafflltef North of Michigan Everdry Waterproofing State Farm Insurance By Don Simmons CoDinoh Pius Champion Window & Home Exteriors Beltons Hearing PolnfBcto.com Kpt^ak Construction Kteun Gutters Midwest Highpoint Community Bank Bay lo Bay Building Concepts P B Excavating Mirocte Ear Mawr.ry Repair Service Prefer red Credll Union Aye«s Basement Systems A/olon Ba'lding Conceph CatedorMo Rent . Wild Pigtei Scooter Store Sundance Chevrolet fiy Ari Mead A! Homo Rool Estate Fifolski Construction City of Hastings Village of Middleville Kitchens By Katto Mid Michigan Landscape Supply 1-800 Hansons Renewal By Anderson Alternative Roofing Solutions Margo’s Custom Sowing Barry Eaton Health Dopl WBCH World's Bos! Country Hrts Pure Green lawn & Tree Professionals Renaissance Roofing & Exteriors Morgan Electrical Boor Creek Co I if o time Homa Products Rraggtaqz Rtteam Steeped Too Natalie ft Norah Co. Boutique Tupperware w/Barbara Smith MC True Service Harder AWamer Landscape ft Garden Center Saxo” junior forward Kilby Beck attacks tho basket « his team's win over Marshau Fr£',n^ht at Hastings High Schoo). Bed, t' Xd ,h0 ball9ame Wl,h 15 points. (P1^lo by perry Hardin) Hastings' Carter Cappon (lies over the paint to get a shot oft durina his tL-,' -tnrv nvar visitinn Marshall Prfo— L, o-JZ Ua.at-x .o "9 ™S t8am S 1-8 � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-02-06.pdf b1273f969499bb0e87c4454bb636a148 PDF Text Text ............ p lighter rules on public comment lack support Govefflor Plans ®to ‘go ft alone See Story on Page 3 See Edit011 Page 4 r »'y DK cheer holds onto third in SMCCC See Story on Page J 6 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 1070490102590504380849058113421 NER ............................................................ Richaro Hemeri ng 421 N Taffee Dr Hastings Ml49058'11346ra0C020 9 47 00 AM VOLUME 167, No. 6 W PRICE 75 Defendant testifies hi cioubi© homicide TT" ‘Once / pulled the trigger^ al[ l saw was smoke and fire. ’ COA hosting fiddlers’ jamboree Saturday The Michigan Fiddlers ?\ssociation will return to the Barry County Commission on Aging Saturday. Feb. 8. for a day of music, food and dancing. Fiddlers will be playing from I to 4 p.m. Open mic will be from 4 to 5:30. Dinner from 4 io 5:30. followed by square dancing from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Along with fiddles, instruments usually include guitars, mandolins, dulcimers, bass fiddles and piano. The Commission on Aging w ill have a fundraising dinner for 56 per adult and $4 per child age 7 and under. 7"he menu will include two soup choices, cornbread muf­ fin, Jell-O salad, pie, and bexcruge. All dinner proceeds will go tow aid COA ser­ vices for homebound seniors. Guests are asked not to bring snacks and beverages into the facility. Admission to the jamlwrec is free of charge, but freewill offerings are appreci­ ated. Proceeds at the door will he spin 50/50 by the MF.X . rd the COA. The Commission on Aging <s at o2d W. Woodlawn Ave., in Hastings. More information is available by call£ ing Judy Moore. 269-795-3143 ;; New series to i; address global h issues | For the first lime. Hastings Public I Library will televise eight lectures per5 taining to current critical global issues. | The World Affairs Council of Western Michigan will present speakers address­ ing critical issues facing America each Tuesday, from noon to 1 pan. Feb. 8 through Match 31 Audience members will be able to direct <|Uestinns to the speakers daring question-nnd-answer seg­ ments. Global issues being presented include Kashmir: Flashpoint between India and Ik Pakistan; The Philippines Under Duterte: Regional Security in (he Red Sea; ‘Green Peacebuilding": Justice in the Face of Climate Change; Human Trafficking: Global and Local Perspectives; Artificial Intelligence and National Security: China s Road into Latin America: and Central American Immigration and U.S. Foreign Policy. Attendees are welcome to bring their own lunch. Brochures are available at the library, providing further information on individ­ ual topics and speakei •. Anyone with questions may email carolcbarvh(«-ymail.com. Free AED class planned Grace Lutheran Church i> hosting a free ses>ion to learn nlwul AED*> imd how a person can help save a life. I he class will be Sunday, I*eb 23, from 12:15 to 2 p.m. Automated external defibrillators, becoming more common m public facilitie>, are used to help those exjerien<‘ing sudden cardiac arrest. The •a.ipbisttcau.-d. yet easy-lo-use. medical device can maJyzc heart rhythm and. if necessary, deliv­ er an electrical shock, or defibiillhbon. to help tire heart re cxulifish an effective rhythm. The class is informatioiud only, n n for certification,and j» suitable to anyone age 10 and up. Interested individuals may register by calling 269-945-9414 nr 269 90K-(X>24. Grace Lutheran Church is wt 239 I*. North St. in Hastings. ’• ■’ '?f.’ ■' . Rebecca Ih’crce Editor The man accused of a murderous rampage that took the lives of two men and jeopardized the lives of passing motorists in Orangeville Township June 21, 2019. described the killings in court Friday Jon Burnett. 63. of Plainwell, uxik the stand in Barry County Circuit Court to testify about what he remembered from that day when Gary L. Peake. 73. of Plainwell, and Bryce Nathan DeGood. 21. of Haslett, were shot and killed. Burnett said he has suffered from blackouts for years, so he could not remember everything that happened that day. Burnett’s testimony before Judge Michael Schipper was part of a nearly five-hour hearing to establish some of the ground rules for a trial tentatively scheduled for April 20. After listening to the testimony. Schipper denied the defense request to suppress evidence and a search warrant gained by statements Burnett had made to police before an attempt was made to advise hirn of his Miranda rights. “Mr. Burnett's obviously an intelligent man. from his job. his conversation," the judge said. "... He conveniently today does not remember things that he clearly remembered on the date. And conveniently today remembers things that arc to his advantage and doesn’t remember things that are harmful to him. ...That’s not how 1 believe blackouts happen “He's a really bright guy.” Peake, who was Burnett’s friend and neighbor, was shot six times, and DeGood, who was walking the fine that day for a tree Jon Burnett testifies about overpowering Bryce DeGood before shooting him. ‘My hands were up in the air. Once I got a hold of the hammer. I threw it in the grass.’ service company,was shot in what eyewitness testimony indicated wh an execution-style slaying. Burnett’s testimony Friday may answer some questions aboit the chronology of events that day: TrVy^uiS Peake was killed first, before D/Gond. and those killings happened m fairly quick ^accession. Burnett .dso had an emanation for the bloody hammer found at the ictne. ‘‘Did you know you were gpitg to kill Mr. Peake and that's why you went over there to get your rifles?” Prosecutor Julie Nakfoor Pratt asked during cross-examination. New chaijiber/EBM president named Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Barry County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance Wednesday announced the hiring of Jennifer IIcinzman as its new president. Heinzman, 46, comes to Barry County from the Mecosta County Chamber of Commerce, based in Big Rapids, where she served as executive director from 2011 until July 2019. She also served as executive director of the Clare Area Chamber of Commerce from 2006 until 2011. “Hands down, she had the most significant exjrenence involving chamber of commerce work [among applicants],” said Bob Johnston a consultant who was hired by the local chamber to coordinate the search process Heinzman, who begins her new duties Monday, replaces Travis Alden, who stepped down as chamber president this past November Riuht Pt yeaR’ A,de" l°°k ' j0b u ,th T,h‘ Right Place, an economic development organization m the Grand Rapids aren Ileinznun and her family recently located to the Caledonia area. While with the Mecosta Couniy Chamber Heinzman led inilialives on various Workforw and econoimc development iMucs hwl.idinn broadband access, child care, transponmion (rail improvement and l>laceniaki„... she also co-chaired a committee to relocate th,Clumber Offices ami local convention and s isttors bureau. Ihat effort led to construction ot a new welcome center and offices for both organizations. hi 2016, the Mecosta office was nim.i Outstanding Chamber of the Year for small c.m.nmmttes by the Michigan Association < C hamber Professionals. Ifettyman .said she foresees lilkjn many of the same issues she dealt with Mecosta County. I want to survey the membership and talk to people in Ute community and find out wh o the needs a,e.” she said m a telephone interview Wednesday. ' 'Hie new president also wants to connect w ith local schools and make students aware of the lucrative careers available in ffany Heinzman County. Heinzman imp^cd the search committee with her Icw'l Vo,hmunity involvement while at the c^unber, Johnston said. At the time last July, she was serving on U diff*-^111 braids and committees. “She had her *npVr on the pulse of (he comimmily.” J0'1” HeinzninH "*|S fr°rn among more than 70 candid*1’0 submitted resumes lor the position*’ Nn}-: four finalists who were interview*“This was 11U '’• field of candidates we’ve ever had <*> hb position.” said Fred Jacobs,owner' * ,f#phics and nchamber board member a |nt about Hastings and Barry CaUn|t,^n»wing place, and |k*oplc who do ‘ '«nt to go to where the action is.” „r3Judt... , Heinziw,rt ‘hclo»? a bachelor’s degree in ,ind sociology from Central M’cb‘fid ? e,M|> lX*ccmlK*r 2(X)2. She ei^,<nCM.n|1as!Ier’s d^rce in admimsiraiio111 ,n December 2005. “No,” Burnett replied. Burnett said he went to his neighbor’s house to ask about rifles he had loaned Peake that he wanted back. Peake had told him everything he owned would go to his daughter when he died and Burnett said he feared his guns would be given to Peake’s daughter if he didn't gel them back. ‘‘How did he gel all those gunshots in his body?” Nakfoor Pratt asked. “From me.” Burnett replied. ‘‘You know he had six shots in body. They came from you?” she asked. Burnett replied. “Yes.” ‘‘What did you use to shoot him?” she asked “Pink handgun” was his two-word response. lire pistol was in Burnett's back pocket when he went to Peake’s house. When Burnett first arrived al Peake’s, he indicated their conversation was cordial, but it changed as they discussed the guns. “1 asked about my rilles: he had five of ’em.” The two men went to a room in Peake’s home that contained two gun safes and piles of clutter. “He started acting funny,” Burnett said. “He opened the gun safe. Then closed it quick.” Peake seemed to be fumbling around, and that behavior made Burnett suspicious, so he asked Peake why he was stalling. “I said some bad things about his daughter” Burnett told the prosecutor. “I didn’t want her to have my things.” His comments angered Peake, who charged him and tackled him, Burnett claimed. They struggled, he said, and Peake shoved him into one of the large piles and threatened him, saying. “You're never going to make it across the yard.” Burnet said he took that statement as a threat, noting that Peake was a master marksman. Burnett said he pushed Peake off. and that’s when Peake went to the other gun .safe.Peake was in a kneeling position, reaching into the bottom of the gun safe, when Burnell asked him, “G.P., what’re doing down there? ? Then. Burnett said, he pulled the pink handgun from his back pocket and fired it a» Peake. “... Once I pulled the trigger, all I saw was smoke and fire.” Burnett said he doesn’t remember what happened next. He told the judge that his next memory is of going back to his house and calling out “10 to 12 times” to his wife. Lynne, to call 911 f not realizing she had fled earlier after he had threatened her with the pink pistol. Then he walked to the big rock al the front of his property near the road and waited for emergency responders to arrive. Next, he recalled, “somebody was yelling at me from across the road. 1 stopped. I said, ‘I didn’t hear what you said. I can’t hear good. Who are you, and what arc you doing walking around here anyway?’ He answered. I don’t remember what he said.” When Burnett crossed the road to confront DeGood, the young man reached down and pulled out a hammer and started hitting him with it, he testified. The two men were standing face to fncei about a fexit apart, struggling with the hammer* That’s when Burnett said he pulled out th<* pistol and shot DeGood, then look the hammer and threw it in the grass. After the interaction with DeGood\ Burnett testified.he didn’t remember anything else until he was silting on the rock on his property. 7 “I saw a group of people moving the body? I pulled the gun out and ran at 'em. I was trying to keep everything contained and See TESTIFIES, page 2 Commissioners’ consensus clear: Jail a priority this year Rebecca Pierce Editor Barry County has a top priority for 2020: 1 he jail. That was the consensus of commissioners at their goal-setting session Tuesday, Jan. 28. and Wednesday, Jan. 29. The idea is to have one issue on the ballot - and that issue would Ik* the jail, they said. “1 think we can Ik* honest with ourselves and say that there likely will be just the jail on the ballot in August,” Commissioner Ben Geiger said, “And it [the jail) will likely be on the same site. “1 don't like this dance that we do as to whether there will be two issues on the bal­ lot.’’ Here's how the commissioners ended up phrasing it: They are leaning toward putting only the jail issue on the ballot at this time. But they have a consensus among them­ selves - and it would take a groundswell ot public opinion to move the needle. Commissioner Vivian Conner was a voice against making any commitment at this print. prior to input from the public at the next two forums scheduled for 7 p.m. Feb. 13 in Johnstown Township Hall and 7 p.m. Feb. 18 in Rwni 1616 of Thornapple Kellose Middle School in Middleville. The Kurd has hired TuwerPmkster to facilitate the community dialogue at these forums. . ••I don’t think )‘,u "n Uns when we’re not done will, the forums.’ Conner said. ’’I aeree with I011-" Commissioner Pan Parker said, noting that they wouldn't be able to ignore a strung push ol public opin “’commrsMontr David Jackson said, if (her receive overwhelming public srrppmt lot a Commission on Aging project this year, the hoard would not Ise able to ignore ''"buI none of lhern espiessed the belief that this would happen. es|xstally based on rhe forums thus far As the ernnmisstoncis base noted, these forums keep ntlractinf '■« same folks, some of them naysayers But the board agreed not to take an olfi cial position until after these town hall meetings are completed. “The main point is: This county board ha> a plan for addressing the county jail.” Geiger said. “We have a plan to hold these town halls. "On a related note, we will be making a decision soon on when we want to deal with the COA. So, we talk about facilities a lot Everybody agree with that?” Commissioners had a lot of questions about issues pertaining to (he future of rhe COA facility. “Is it better for us to invc ,t in smaller day care centers across die county or more social space?” Geiger asked. "It's mdlag-* money that comes into the county lor seniors. We've always just assumed that a building for seniors is what this is lor. Parker, who lives in Middleville, said people in his district love the senior center in Hastings “ They pick people up and brim.’ them here.” "Wouldn't they like a satellite one?’ Commissioner Jon Smelker asked. “No. they love the center here.” Parker replied. But Chairwoman Heather Wing said, “There are rural people that are independent who don't want io take public transport. lion. They don't tiusl ’em." "I would like to see a survey of the people attending that place to see where they re coming from 'Dial would help us decide where to put a facility.” ComnussioiK Howard Gibson said. Conner said she has asked for irn npd.ue from COA on its service number.. “There are* a lot of questions that aren't answered.” Parker said, adding that the board doesn't have enough information to m ike an intelligent dcvis’on on a COA f.u il ily. “4 here could be some awooir • .synerpr.s working with 1 hornapple Manor.” Wing remarked. ’ There > nothin? that savs H has to be ,<t Thomapple Manor. .. fi See PRIORITY, page 2 �I’a^e 2 — Thunvda}, t ebrufvy 6, 2020 — The Hn •’^TLeral W1* TESTIFIES, continued from page 1 -dVicftn^r First lndi«ti°nofaecoqdsaf'ercir,s W'"inu,eSflnd 1532® unONlHWIt^ 1 Bb; "''n, D0Wtf)US £’*« Jon Bufnett’s wile, Lynne, describes now sne grabbed her husband s wribi iu preveni hlih from turning the gun on her. She said she fought him and attempted to disable him. "I was screaming at the top of my lungs. Barry County Sheriffs Detective-Sgt. Janette Maki said her efforts to advise Jan Burnett of his rights were met with ‘bj?.gercnce and unwillingness to listen. ; ’protect the scene.” he told the court. ’Three of ♦ Ci’, jumped back in the ear.except the driver, j<:d to pull the gun out and pul it right on his ‘ a and threatened to shoot him. ‘Dude, I’m anout ready to shoot you in I second.’ ' Tie finally got back in his car and did a -tfirec-point turn and went back west on Burnett remembered shooting at the man’s tires. His next memory is of Barry’ County Sheriff’s Deputy Kevin Erb arriving. Erb. the first responder, also testified during Friday’s hearing. When he arrived, he said, he saw a subject down on Lewis Road and Burnett holding a pink handgun. When Erb asked him to drop the gun. Burnett did so. He kept repeating, “My buddy ;< dead next d<xir.” The scene was chaotic, Erb recalled, and it didn’t make sense. He radioed: "Suspect is claiming he shot second near my vicinity.” ‘ I didn’t know exactly what I had,” the deputy testified. "... It was bits and pieces of Information coming in. And it didn’t make Burnett was in culls, and another officer patted him down and removed the two cochlear implants he wears. He is deaf without them, according to his wife. ; Burnett was enraged and attacked the officers, kneeing Erb in the groin. In the police audiotape Burnett can be heard, often unintelligible, crying and moaning, "Oh God. I don’t know what is Wrong with me." ’ 1 1c begged police to "shoot me right in the f-—g head.” Erb called the situation “a quagmire ... that. to thi> day. still bothers me Once the cochlear implants were restored ard Burnett could hear, they were able to communicate with him. Then, according to jx4icc testimony. Burnett took them to the body in Peake’s house. Burnell testified Friday that he remembered Deputy Eib arriving. "He asked if 1 was Jon. lie said. T hrovv the gun down, and I dropped the cun. I was handcuffed and pul in the vehicle.” But he said he doesn’t remember talking Io the deputy in the back of the patrol vehicle. Next, he said, he remembers being in Peake’s driveway. Defense attorneys Shane McNeill and Steven Storrs requested the hearing Friday to argue that, at the scene, Burnett had not been properly advised of his rights. They sought to suppress statements he made at the lime of his arrest, he said. A Miranda warning advises a suspect of his right to remain silent and that anything he s;r s can and will lx_** used against him in court. .Suspects also must be advised that the} have a right to an attorney and, if they cannot afford one, an attorney will be provided for them. McNeill and Storrs also requested suppression of any evidence gained from the search warrant for the Peake residence, contending that Burnett’s statements at the y„ene were involuntary’. During the hearing, the defense played the ponce audiotape from the scene in an effort to JiKument that Burnett was not properly .•.pi red of his rights. in a defense brief submitted to the court, they stated: The ‘physical and mental state’ libi ’the mentality’ of the defendant are i’early fragile as evidenced in his sobbing, mumbling, mood swings, incoherence and citation replete through the audio, and the pre encc of the narcotic oxycodone and the nypnotic zolpidem lAmbien], and a 0.079 H A< ? ]blood alcohol content]. "Mr. Burnett had (recent to June 21] had h;. vears-long prescribed narcotic regimen deceased by his physician." the brief Continues. ’’He also had a remote history of a rwumatic brain injury. When individuals with umatic brain injury become habituated on nrcoucs. tAing them off can lead to Mucmations, erratic behavior, aggression, itixiciy, violence, delirium mid other behaviors 1‘itdem.cd bv Mr. Burnett. Jhcre also is research relating to anltidcial personality disorder in persons similar to Mr. Burnett’s medical history. PostHmmatic stress disorder may also be a .:?msideniiion. Patients who have l>een jjbiectcd io u brain trauma and experiencing psychological events may also be even more 4aic to the documented hallucinations and delirium in zolpidem [Ambien] use. "No defendant, let alone this defendant, could be shown to have been advised of his rights and then made a knowing and voluntary waiver to them. "That the defendant was never read Miranda makes the violation more aggravating." Detective-Sgt. Janette Maki said her efforts to advise Burnett of his rights were met with belligerence, but she was able to give an abbreviated version of Miranda. In addition, Nakfoor Pratt argued that Burnett’s statements to police were spontaneous and did not come as the result of any interrogation by police. The judge agreed. Schipper said he did not view the defense emphasis on how much time had elapsed between the arrest of Burnett and the attempt to advise him of his rights as particularly egregious. It would be difficult for people to understand this situation unless they have experienced something like this, he said. "Ten minutes may feel like 60 seconds. It may feel like an hour.” "The defendant is obviously a very intelligent guy,” the judge added. "Is this interrogation? This was sluff being blurted out all the lime. "I didn’t feel anything [was] coercive at all. This was just mostly conversation,” Schipper said. “Mr. Burnett felt bad about what happened: ‘1 did this, I did that. I don’t need you to read me my rights. I know what my rights are.’ "I can just picture Erb out there. A boy lying by the road. It had to be incredibly OH^1 tX fe!"" I ! Defense exhibits illustrate the radio traffic, bit by bit, to show the time span from the arrest of the suspect to the attempt to advise him of his rights. Barry County Sheriff’s Deputy Kevin Erb testifies that the scene near Lindsey and Lewis roads in Orangeville Township was chaotic, “a quagmire ... that, to this day, still bothers me." “I don’t really Know.” Burnett said Burnett has the cochlear implants due to bilateral Meniere’s disease. “Without his implants, he’s completely deaf,” his wife testified. “With his implants, he can hear, but it’s not like we can hear. So, there is some hearing impediment." Lynne Burnett testified that her husband hadn’t been feeling well that week. "He had no energy, headaches.Something was wrong will) him.” The couple have been married for 37 “I think all of this, al! of this, was a follow years. u up to all the things Mr. Burnett spit out. He He has never slruck)ter,^e said. felt bad he shot his friend. I don’t think any of But. on June 1]/When \e attacked her his statements should be excluded. He didn’t with her pink pisoli she feand he would want to hear any part of it [Miranda rights]. shoot her. so she grabbed her phtnc and her “I will deny defendant’s motions. The purse, jumped in her car and vvejt to find statements come in. The search warrant is help. valid. They know he shot somebody. He’s Burnett said he did not remember getting really credible when he says he killed a guni but he had one in his hand - his wife’s somebody else. pink pistol. ‘”1 shot my buddy. I shot my neighbor.’ It ‘Was it loaded?" Nakfoor Pratt asked. was all voluntary. *Yes,” he said. "... Il was always loaded “I don’t think any of that should be since we bought it.” precluded or suppressed,” Schipper said. “Do you remember how you got all those The sight of DeGood’s body, lying by the bruises on your body that day?” Nakfoor Pr.iit road near the intersection of Lindsey and asked. Lewis, prompted several motorists to stop and McNeill objected to several questions by try to help him. Their efforts to render aid the prosecutor, particularly those pertaining to resulted in additional felonious assault charges Burnett's visit to the Peake house; those against Burnett. would go beyond the scope of their In all, Burnett is facing 36 felony counts questioning, he said, adding. "Our direct from the events of that day. [examination] was specific.” In past court appearances, Burnett, who is But the judge disagreed with how McNeill severely hearing impaired, has not attempted characterized their questioning of Burnett as to communicate and, one time, shouted at the being confined to certain segments of that judge in response to his questions. day. Friday, in an orange jail-issue jumpsuit “Your direct [examination] talked about with hands cuffed to a black belt around his the day, and what he does and doesn’t waist, Burnett shuffled to the stand, raised his remember,” the judge pointed out. “I’m trying manacled right hand and swore to the judge to find out what he does and doesn’t that he would tell the truth, the whole truth remember.” and nothing but the truth. “Obviously, Mr. Burnett has testified that Burnett said he’s an aerospace hydraulic there are snippets he remembers and snippets mechanic who has worked al Parker Aerospace Hydraulic Systems Division in Kalamazoo for he claims not to remember.” Schipper 35 years. He’s worked the third shift there for continued, then turned to Burnett on the stand. "You don’t member any scuffle between years. you and Lynne?” he asked. But, prior to June 21, he hadn’t been able “No,” Burnett replied to work. At that point, Storrs stood to indicate he "Something was wrong,” he said. “I hud a point to make. couldn’t describe it. I couldn’t even describe “I’m going to walk through this.” Schipper it to my doctor. Something didn’t feel right.” Burnett has had a number of ailments and “'<* '0 everyone in II,e court. Then he said to slorrs k.fore he could injuries since 1988. he said. But the problem speak: ’ Overruled.” wasn’t physical, he told the court. "Sit down. Sil doWn ^fr. Storrs Ihcre’s "What was going on with you?” McNeill no objection on the rvernd ... I’,n ,0 asked him. continue my question^ Vnderst^xl?’’ Barry County Judge Michael Schipper rules on defense requests Friday: “I will deny defendant’s motions. The statements come in. The search warrant is valid. They [police] know he shot somebody. He’s really credible when he says he killed somebody else.” • • , Storrs replied that he wanted to raise u separate subject. “There’s no subject on the table right now," the judge replied. "Sit down." After hearing Burnett’s testimony, the judge said: "Obviously, w hether he’s testifying truthfully or not. there arc things he’s testifying, there are snippets throughout all of this. 1 don’t know that it’s relevant to the motions in front of us. We’re not in the middle of a trial today. Il’s a motion.” Schipper also decided that another motion pertaining to witnesses and exhibits would be dealt with closer to the time of trial. In Friday’s so-called "Walker hearing," a defendant may take the stand without waiving his right not to testify at trial. .4 portion of the testimony by Jon Burnett and Ins wife. Lynne, during this hearing Friday in Barry County Court, may be viewed at hnps://\ imco.c(>m/389115!M. PRIORITY, continued from page 1 ———--------could be something in town, in Nashville, in Middleville and Delton, with 50 units scat­ tered because that’s where the need is ” ’Hie commissioners were so engaged in the Commission on Aging issues that they spent a half an hour on it and it wasn’t their top prior­ ity, the hired “neutral facilitator” Nancy Ohle of Midland admonished the group "Is TowerPinkstcr asking these kinds of question on your COA?” she asked. “No,” Geiger replied, “and I don’t think that is necessarily a bad thing. My taxpayers do not want to sec a COA millage on the bal­ lot.” Smelker, Wing and Gibson all said their constituents have said the same. Conner said the mood of the voters in her district is “mixed.” Diey agreed that they need to set priorities Ohlc encouraged th f°mc up with positive , g ..’ini’ around the ‘Thai s all covered TowerPinkstcr. Their / are going to be usC(| and place for lalkim, “nd we have hired tjL^ sional assistance. ,ln“ “We have the nj.ln• Section Day.” 1 ‘n contract with ion J resources T|rercS a time a, ,| messaging, for their profes­ ’ fhli takes us to lh Then Wmg asked th , , • “Ho^ Wl‘ brvak it to the COA th1 °lbt o,,r Pri* on'y? We are n „ 1 tlu'm The Thomapple Manor si^el^ <» '* whcn you |tX)i ... is •• m,llaeeandWlwi.h^JuSsi<>'-" DKHS crowns Winterfest royalty �The Hastings Dannor — Thursday, February 6. 2020 — Page 3 Welcome to the bench; judge Rebecca Pierce Editor The pomp and circumstance of a Bany County Court investiture ceremony brought the local legal community and county employe together in the circuit courtroom Friday* It was a full house when Judge Vicky Alspa^h donned the traditional black robes and thanked her well-wishers. “She has worked with us for 15 years ” Chief Judge William Doherty said, remarking on her integrity and honesty. “We expect good things of her.” Doherty. Judge Michael S.‘hipper prosecutor Julie Nakfoor Pratt ard Barry County Bar Association Presiden Robert Byington spoke during the proceedings. ' Actually. Alspaugh has been handling a full docket since Jan. 2, after a quick swearing­ in ceremony outside the courthouse after midnight Jan. 1. The investiture ceremony is a tradition that celebrates the administration of local justice. Alspaugh, 56. has been working for years in the court system in a variety of roles. She was attracted to the legal profession when she was 10 and saw a female prosecutor on a TV show. She decided then that she wanted to be a lawyer. ”1 saw myself as a career prosecutor,” she said. “Things don’t always follow the path that you anticipate.” Her family is originally from Arkansas. “I’m first generation off the farm,” Alspaugh said. “My parents and grandparents were farmers from Arkansas. My oldest sister was 1 year old when they came to Michigan. My dad landed a job as a journeyman mailer at the Lansing State Journal. My mom was a homemaker. Then she took a shortage route at the Lansing Stale Journal.” Chat meant that her parents could ride ogethcr sometimes, so they had time to talk and be together. They were a newspaper family, she said. She worked in advertising services for the Lansing paper, driving around delivering learshects to advertisers, to put herself through school. She is a Michigan State University graduate, with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice earned in August 1985. and a juris doctor degree from Thomas M. Cooley Law School. She was admitted to the bar in June 1989. Her title, prior to her appointment to the bench by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, was Quasi­ Judicial Officer II for the county’s trial court. That post formerly had been called an attorney referee, magistrate and probate register. She served in that capacity since May 2000. In that role, Alspaugh presided over various custody-related matters, was a backup magistrate for the district court division for warrants, arraignments, small claims trials, and general civil scheduling and settlement conferences. She was in the weekly on-call rotation to make decisions on matters such as estates, guardianships, name changes and adoptions. From May 2000 to January 2006, Alspaugh was Friend of the Court assistant director. She also has experience as an assistant prosecutor, posts she filled from April 1991 to May 2000 in Barry' County and, from October 1989 to April 1991 in Ogemaw County. Alspaugh’s term commenced the day she was sworn in and, the next day, she was on the bench, handling cases. Her term of office will expire at noon Jan. 1. 2021. If she wishes to seek a full six-year term, she would be required to run for re-election in November 2020. The role of judge is quite different from ' .!/’<• 5,lC her prcvioUS/^L;, 1 So* ,. the judge c»ul J feel **««’» not that other stoP|i“P; . I make (L *,r« weight of making 0(i the demion I can make. ba. (and it;an give it and the law “51111 , (wo n f\lspaugl>lb‘ . and Ferrell in Memphis'1; j^hand.^'» Orr in f(oli. She and h works r hcal‘ a process server who « joing ”r lbc county’s specialty years. p screens, have been married --- he When they vv,indshj . ^chan»c *ho left a note on th of hcr car whcn she was work! ^vcftisjno fl8 State Journal and delivered * o ’Wheels to his "&«^u^B.Hannah>a ^^r^,andSanrf’' which, allow; judges to \hare responsibility uale lv,sions - from Strict, circuit, piratefan)i|y _ because they ha n£ appointments in each other’s courts••The way we ha “'■Went assignments. Judge Schipper;^ Wony docket and Judge Doherty he Preliminary hearings. To ease ,hc burden for jU()£,c Sch. ’ Doherty is '“k‘n* ™ ««ne of Shipper's district court m • like landlord/tcnant matters. That can <I l*n because we have that continuing aPP° hnent in each other districts.” . ., Right now. with /X spaugh as judge, there is no referee, so anything.that would have gone to hcr as referee is staying on her docket, A replacement is currently being sought. “The most important thing 1 do is provide people an opportunity lo resolve their Claudia Andler, deputy probate register in the Barry County Family Division of the Probate Court, congratulates her former boss, Judge Vicky Alspaugh after the investiture ceremony Friday. (Rebecca Pierce) conflicts,” she said. “If people can be encouraged to resolve their conflicts amongst themselves, they’re more likely to be happy with the outcome. “My time as a referee has cemented that. If people can come to a resolution, they have ownership over it. They have some control over the outcome.” Most of all, Alspaugh views her role <d judge as a service. “Il’s important to remember that you are a servant to the system and to the people. We’re answerable. “I can’t promise that I won’t ever make mistakes, because I am human, but I can promise that I will do the very best job that I can do.” Tighter rules on public comment lack support Rebecca Pierce Editor Bany County commissioners on Tuesday considered amending board rules to more clearly define what would constitute appropri­ ate public comment. Chairwoman Heather Wing pitched the idea. Commissioners Vivian Conner made the motion and Jon Smelker supported it. But the action failed on a voice vote, 2-5. with Commissioners Ben Geiger, Howard Gibson, Dave Jackson. Dan Parker and Jon Smelker voting against it. The change had specified that people would be allowed to address the board “only on mat­ ters or issues which are relevant and germane to county govemment’and that comments must be directed to the chairperson. Stronger language also was proposed to allow the chairperson to call to order any person behav­ ing in a disorderly manner or otherwise dis­ rupting the proceedings. Wing explained the proposal which was written in consultation with the county’s attor­ ney, she said. “There are so many reasons why I am deep­ ly opposed to these new rules. First of all - it’s a solution in search of a problem.” Commissioner Ben Geiger told fellow com­ missioners. “In my 10 years on this board, there hasn’t been a single event, not a single time that we needed rules like this. We’ve never needed to read the public our guidelines or their Miranda rights. “Second, there will be unintended negative consequences of requiring people to be ger­ mane to county government. Under this poli­ cy, no more statements from Bob Vandcrboegh thanking our veterans. No more statements from Rick Moore celebrating trails, and no more Sharon Zebrovski promoting team­ work. Just the nxrowbusincss of approving minutes, budgets and contracts. “Finally, we uiMbe, passing new limits on the public yficn ou own house is not in order. The Reminder dis weekend had an article about how our the courthouse door was locked, very unfortunately, during our last public meeting. “If we’re going to start regulating public meetings, we should start by requiring the county to unlock the front door.” Some commissioners expressed a willing­ ness to consider modifications to their board rules, but they were uncomfortable doing so without time to weigh the words. Cathy Gramzc, speaking during the public comment portion of the meeting, expressed concern about the changes. “After the allegations of an Open Meetings Act violation; I would have expected the county to be extra cautious about proceed­ ings," she said. “It feels like the board is becoming less open. I’m really surprised.” Gramzc’s reference was to the Open Meetings Act violation complaint filed with the sheriff’s office by Joel Ibbotson of Rutland Charter Township, who alleged that his civil rights were violated at the Jan. 14 meeting when his public comments were interrupted by Vice Chairwoman Conner, who was run­ ning the meeting in Wing’s absence, and Smelker. Ibbotson called the proposal “a knee-jerk reaction to my complaint.” . Sheriff Dar Leaf, who was asked Tuesday afternoon about the status of Ibbotson ’s coin plaint, said it was still under investigation. MDHHS activates coordination center in response to coronavirus Local health departments coordinating with state •=-------- ---------------- ------------------------ —°--------------------------As cases of 2019 Novel Coronavirus con- internationally, the Michigan Department of tinue to increase in the United States and Health and Human Services activated the ^0,nmu"i,>: H“l,h Agency coordination Center Wednesday to support local and stale response to the outbreak. “We at MDHHS recognize the potential Whole Child Inc. focuses ®n ACES Taylor Owens Staff Writer A new West Michigan nonprofit dedicated to teaching stress relief and resilience practic­ es opened its doors in Hastings in January. Whole Child, Inc. operates out of the Barry Community Enrichment Center, but will be reaching out into the community to host events and partner with other community organizations. “We are engaged in the mission of educa­ tion around Adverse Childhood Experiences and their impact on mental physical and emo­ tional health,” Executive Director Deb Timmerman said. The Centers for Disease Control describes ACEs as traumatic evens that may include “experiencing violence or abuse, witnessing violence at home or in the community, or hav­ ing a family member commit or attempt sui­ cide.” , , “Also included are aspects of the child s environment that can undermine their sense of safety, stability, and bonding, such as growing up in a household with, substance misuse, mental health problems and instability due to parental separation or household members being in jail or prison.” . About 61 percent of adults report experi­ encing at least one type of ACE, according to the Centers for Disease Control. TOey have been linked to chronic health problems, mental illness and substance abuse in Thought registered nurse and ACE survi■ Kir Timmerman did not know about vor herself. Itmmerm. the studies into ACEs ano urci "wVchanged looking for ways to help her recovery. could offer was pain .•The. only thing a 50 het. pills and rest* ana nursing home.” Tu^“ (|lcn,pist who introShe saw a massage M re||cf duced her to ddferem methods ol d Whole Child, Inc. Executive Director Deb Timmerman (Photo provided) as a kid," Timmerman said. "1 heanl nho.i. Advene Childhood Experiences study and^ was like somebody gave me a missing puale piece in my life, and I started to le^> about stress and how it affected me ” umned, I did not know llbou( lhe whole^£ In her ongoing education ... .... Timmerman specialized rsC1 menl. She integrated it in2 " * ,a,,aS» nursmg home, and continued to l> R *“ ,the ^-ntintoindependc^pm^^" 1 have a 94-year-old client uM.'- ~ esl. and after a few years of» ‘ t S she finally discloid to „* .h".15 7 abused as a child. I aiw.v- and set her down a path Child. Inc. 1 learned that I ■ha. MtSin om 5‘ 0,<l S le Was as physical symptoms, h dawned on me that even as an adult, if we don’t deal with those childhood ills and hurts, we’re never going to be a whole person.” She was inspired to do more, and has spent years preparing to open Whole Child. Inc., which was approved as a 501(c)(3) in April 2019. “Whole child initiative is rea]iy (0 prevent adverse childhood expcricnceSt lo lessen the damage from stress related illness and teach people the skills they need to weather the ups and downs of life,” Timmerman said. Whole Child Inc, wi|| partner with other community organizations to serve people from all across West Michigan. Il will teach methods to reduce stress and increase resil­ ience to both kids and adults, including teach­ ers, first responders and more. Some classes will be taught in the nonprof­ it’s room in the basement of the Barry Community Enrichment Center, while others will be out in the community. “Every class that wc teach we try to give them one or two things that they can take and implement right away Timmerman said. Classes may cover breathing simple medi­ tation, breathing exercisest basic Tai Chi and mindfulness ,0 help kids and adults be more awaie of enisclves and their emo- “All of those things that can help you build your capacity to hc P you weather the ups and downs of life"Tin’.'"':r,nan said. “So when the) Li‘ve worhshOp, they have a plan for'' *l lhey’rc going to do to keep their own * * in focus.” The skills and n'^ nods aren’t just for when people feel over" u/ned, but are meant to be proactive and bm P a capacity to deal with “Our gr»> ‘“I’niir hclp folks lciirn l,10se tools, help ' [)U| y h is in their life is pushing ,hl’ |o.,d “nd helping them reduce that strtf ' 4,ul Rain those skills,” llMore"info°,wl^g On 'vl>ole Child. Inc., includin'’ uPtx>"" hit rVen,li “I1‘* ‘■ ‘•“■'“s. is available al J"?“,,d ,lw "Whok' Child Inc" ' gt' threat associated with this virus and are work­ ing to identify any suspect cases in Michigan along with our local health partners." Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, MDHHS chief medical executive and chief deputy for health, said in a press release. “To help coordinate Michigan’s response to 2019 Novel Coronavirus, we arc opening the Community Health Emergency Coordination Center lo assist lhe multiple public health jurisdictions involved in the response and prevention of coronavirus here in our state.” The CHECC will develop and distribute guidelines and educational materials concern­ ing 2019-nCoV to public health agencies and healthcare providers as needed. This includes coordination with local health departments, including Detroit and Wayne County health departments especially as Detroit Metropolitan Airport has become a 2019-nCoV screening location. To date, there are no confirmed cases of 2019 Novel Coronavirus in Michigan. MDHHS has issued statewide messages through the Health Alert Network encourag­ ing healthcare providers across Michigan to assess patients for exposures associated with the risk of 2019-nCoV infection, including travel to China or close contact with a con­ firmed case, and for symptoms consistent with 2019-nCoV infection. This includes coughing, shortness of breath and fever. The first U.S. case-patient was identified Jan. 21 and had recently traveled from Wuhan. China. Since dial time, additional cases have been confirmed in the United States among persons who traveled from Wuhan, and two close contacts of confirmed cases. Globally, reported illnesses in people with 2019-nCoV have ranged from mild to severe, including death. Last week, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar declared the coronavirus a public health emergency in lhe United States. In response to the evolving threat of lhe novel coronavirus, and to mini­ mize the risk of the virus spreading, lhe Department of Homeland Security has begun enforcing restrictions for all passenger flights to the United Stales carry ing individu­ als who recently traveled from the People’s Republic of China. Any U.S. citizen who has been to China in the last two weeks will be diverted to one of 11 airports, including Detroit Metropolitan Airport, to be checked and potentially quarantined fur an additional 14 days. According to DHS, as of Feb. 2, U.S. citi­ zens who have been in Hubei province within 14 days of their return will be subject to up to 14 days of mandatory quarantine to ensure they arc provided proper medical care and health screening. U.S. citizens who have been in other areas of mainland China within 14 days of their return will undergo proactive entry health screening and up to 14 days of self-quarantine with health monitoring to ensure they have not contracted the v iru.*> and do not pose a public health risk. Generally, foreign nationals (other than immediate family of U.S. citizens, permanent residents and flight crew) who have traveled in China within 14 days of their arrival, will be denied entry into the United States. As this is a rapidly changing situation, more information about lhe 2019 Novel Coronavirus outbreak and current recomrnt n dations will be updated at Michigan .gov ( Coronavirus and CDC. gov/Coronavirus. See us for all of your • Photo processing needs • Specials on double prints • Wedding packages • Reprints 1351 N M-43 • Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 269.945.9105 �P.,sw 4 - Tmustay. frt-uary 6.2020 - n W Banner minion —— jbidyou see? \ Governor plans to ‘go ft alone’ No snow? Say it ain’t so! This rotund fellow looks like he’s trying . .jp hitch a ride to a place where weather ’ conditions are more conducive to snow­ men. The snow didn’t arrive in time for i ’lws hapless hitchhiker, but the forecast 'Is predicting snowmen weather for the Test of the week. (Photo by Heather lTo!sma} i L™, remember? k 1 l I Preparing the Follies t • 1 6 'ndated Everyone is invited to enjoy the Mus’cal Follies at Delton s upper elementary gym Friday and Saturday night. Talking over plans are (from let!) student Kroes, director Dee Ann “ Kathy associate director Ramsey, emcee Roy LaFountain and accompanist Richard Ramsey. 'f (The 2020 Follies opened last night in the high school auditorium. Shows will continue at 7 Friday. Feb. 7. and at 2 and 7 pan. Saturday. Feb. 8.) Have you met? The face of domestic violence is something Janie Bergeron recognizes and sees every day. It’s central to the work .she docs as executive director of Green Gables Haven Community Shelter, a sanctuary where women and their children can go when lhe violence at home becomes more than they can bear. “I still cry - after 13 years.” she said of her work. “J think that’s important. 1 think when I Mop crying, it’s time for me to go.” File former Janie Temby is lhe daughter of Sherry Hill and lhe late Burt Temby. Bergeron. 51, was bom in Royal Oak. She prosed around a bit in hcr young life, having lived in Boyne City and in Fort Riley and Manhattan. Kansas, before her family settled in Hastings when she was in fourth grade. In a fit of rebellion, she admitted, during hcr freshman year of high school, she moved lo Pompano Beach. Fla., to Jive with her dad. but came to her senses and returned to Hastings. She said she is “a very proud Saxon” from lhe Class of 1986. After high school, .she look classes at Kellogg Community College and got heavily involved with the Hastings Jaycees. That led to work with the .Michigan Jaycees and her serving as the suite organization’s president in 1998. She was the third female president. The first was the former Bonnie Ballinger, now Gettys, also ol Hastings, in 1993 - nine sears after women were allowed to join. "... it made me who 1 am today,” Bergeron said of the leadership training chib. • | am running a nonprofit organization, and learned so many other necessary things associated with the business world because t'A mv involvement with lhe Jaycees.” She also gives a great deal of credit to the ,l.11 at Given Gables for the nonprofit’s j I I I i | "I’m 'cry fortunate, because we are so srnalL (hui 1 10 wor^ !^c cl‘cnls xmictimes. and 1 think h’s important to keep mv passion.” she said ”1 love what I do. I’m yorry J have to do n, but I love helping people. It’s just my nature.” fbe heller capacity i> 14 beds, and dmirni their a 30-day stay, clients are ()rov ided assistance in a variety ol ways. Bergeron is well aware ol statistics /clevant to individuals who pass through Green Gables, and is not unfamiliar with )ho... who end up back in unhealthy sanctuary and her willingness to offer strength and guidance Janie Bergeron is this week’s Banner Bright Light. Janie Bergeron relationships, even alter completing the programs there. Some arc successful, others aren’t, she said. “Nothing’s mandatory. You don’t have to stay here It you choose not lo be here, it’s OK. We’ll be sad. but we also know, statistically, it lakes a victim an average of nine times before they’ll leave (an abusive relationship] lor good.” Bergeron said, adding that it’s still hard to watch when people she tries to guide into healthier lifestyles go back to violence But she celebrates the .successes when she can. Outside of work, she is thankful loi hcr husband Mike Bergeron, whom she married in 2001. I’hcy had a blended family. Ciiep Bergenm. the eldest, passed away a year a-o leaving behind a granddaughter to Jame mid Mike.Sky Bcigeron.9. Z->c|,;Uy Connor. 30. lives in Potterville. Jenna (Connor) Dunk Icy 27, lives in Caledonia, and |//s Bcnrroi/ 14. is aheshman at lla-tiim. Hjgii Sdiix>|. For her companion to those m need ol If I could have any superpower, it would it be: lhe ability to change the violence and anger in the world. We only gel one life. It dumbfounds me how some people spend it so angry. Greatest song ever written: ’’The StarSpangled-Banner.” simply because it speaks the truth. We are the land of the free, because ol those who are so Very brave. Favorite dinner: Seafood, any kind of seafood. Favorite teacher: Mel Hund, my English teacher at Hastings Middle School. She was inspirational, loving and kind - not to mention beautiful, and still is. Something about me most people don’t know : I’m actually kind of shy. .My biggest challengc/fni'lration: lhe lack of legal ramification for assaulting (beating,beliulinp, etc.) ;| domestic violence abuser. While aniniah are very beloved. I find ii astounding a pcr^)|j gCl into more troub'e for Inuting an anin,.,| thJii for Inirt ing a fellow human being If only I could. . |.ict up this e,"'r'; vomn>1)nit>al„|„t0Ve7din-ale. <lespi>e winter, bUI । । wheie I l-'e. I ■•ve this community Jj । «hai 1 d» here at (,rcen Gables n , She sounded irritable when delivering her second Slate of the Slate message last Wednesday, but Gov. Gretchen Whitmer caused some equally irritable feelings among a lol of state residents with her less-than-collaborativc tone in telling state legislators that she plans to “go it alone.” lhe pressure on Whitmer is understand­ able. given that she’s receiving little help from the legislature in trying lo fulfill hcr campaign promise to “fix lhe damn roads.” But that pledge, along w ith protecting the Affordable Care Act and dismantling lhe law that threatens to hold back more than 5,000 third-graders next year if they can’t read up to grade level, makes three issues that I don’t think can be resolved without consensus. ”1 am not here to play games.” an irked Whitmer said. “It’s time for Plan B. and I’m going on without you.” That’s the kind of lone we witness in Washington, D.C.. where political parties seem to be fighting a war against each other. rather than focusing on helping lhe wound­ ed who arc being trampled by their lack of attention to w hat’s most important. ' Anyone who imagines they can work alone winds up surrounded by nothing but rivals, without companions.” former profes­ sional road racing cyclist Lance Armstrong said, “ l he fact is, no one ascends alone.” When Whinner came lo office hist year, she touted the fact that, as a veteran member of the state Legislature, she had the ability lo work across the political aisle to get things done. Hcr Plan /X road-fix plan, though, never even made it close to the aisle. Republican legislators couldn’t swal­ low Wimmer’s 45-cents-pcr-gallon fuel lax to pay for her plan which would have left Michigan motorists w ith the largest gas tax in the nation. Thai’s when Whitmer’s experience should have kicked in. however, finding another way lo w ork across the aisle for a solution to one of the state’s biggest issues. It’s part of what encouraged voters to elect hcr governor 16 months ago. Whitmer now figures she w ill lx: better off try ing to solve lhe road-funding problem without the sup­ port of her legislature, blaming “political gridfivk” and “inaction” as the problem. Whitmer told-state legislators and lhe people of Michigan in her address Wednesday that she Will ask lhe State Transportation Commission lo bond for .$3.5 billion over five years in a partial plan to fix lhe stale’s major roads and bridges while ignoring local and primary road net­ works. But that’s kind of like putting lhe stale’s road construction on a credit card where you get the money today and post|xme repayment of the debt for another leg­ islature to .solve. The state still owes approx­ imately $1 billion or more from bonds issued in 2011 for special road projects. From ail reports, legislators do realize that our reads and bridges are in serious condition and that something must be done to fix lhe problem. The American Society of Civil Engineers gives the condition of our roads an overall grade of D-minus with just IS percent ol our roads in “good’ condition. So. it’s imperative that our elected officials act together to find a solution that makes sense, but it must K* a plan that Michigan taxpayers also will support. Currently. Michigan funds road improve­ ments through fuel taxes. The state collects 19 cents per gallon of tax on gasoline and 15 cents per gallon on diesel fuel, which has been in place since 1997. These dollars go directly to the Michigan Transportation Fund to pay for road repairs. In addition, hinds are collected from vehicle registra­ tions and licenses that are deposited into the M11’. The state collects another 6 percent sales tax on each gallon of fuel, but that money goes into the general fund. In a sense, we arc trying to fix our roads using a formula that was put in place in 1951 under Public Act 51 which didn’t take into consideration more fuel-efficient vehi­ cles and the possibility of electric cars and trucks. Because they use no fuel, those vehi­ cles ol the future will not be adding fuel tax dollars to road improvement funds Dwindling lucl tax dollars with no decrease in read use makes the situation even more serious. . . work together to find a ‘^X’solution ,O MichiEan’s deteri°reasonable . jusl the govcr. rating road' •> government's problem, nor's P^^'X^ouW demand they all As taxpaye .. ()) fi[)d a so|ulion wjth work coopt . )ive poe$ (hat mean r'hhr mxes* ProbaWy. But taxes are the higher ,a^ ' |jve jn a civilized society, price we pay t r<;asonabie, howev­ er and it should include opportunities for r lino sources, such as tolls on our nCW f"hkdiways to capture revenue from n,ilJ°nrnd tracks^hat travel our roads but may cars and trucks4n. And not purchase any fuel m satesX St"uwd only for roads. If the state sa 1 ■ hnnrk for road construction deteXe where the money w.ll come from to pay off the bonds. # Finding solutions for our roads is a b)g issue and needs eve«yone at the table _ because going it alone isn t acceptable. County boards can hold private meetings? I think it’s a good idea for boards to set some time aside for goal-setting and plan­ ning. but anytime they do. the time and date of such meetings should be published so taxpayers arc properly informed. Chairwoman Heather Wing pitched the idea of a planning workshop at the Jan. 7 meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners but, at that time, the times and dates had not yet been confirmed. That planning workshop eventually occurred in two sessions, the first from 1 to 5 p.m. Jan. 28 and the second, an evening session, from 4 to 7 p.m. Jan. 29. Virtually no notice was made of the meet­ ings. however, and on Jan. 29 after the county courthouse where the board holds its meetings had closed for the day, our report­ er had lo pound on windows and doors and upset employees (who didn’t know com­ missioners were meeting upstairs) to finally gain entrance when someone pushed open the locked door. Commissioners were asked about it and they pointed out that meeting times and dates were posted, as required, on the court­ house bulletin board and the county web­ site. That’s procedure, but they failed to inform our staff or publish the meeting dates and times in any of our publications. The public was unaware of the special meeting. When pressed on the issue, commission­ ers maintained that lhe workshop meeting was not only posted, it was mentioned during a prior committee of the whole meet­ ing. But dates were tentative and times were not mentioned al their committee of the whole meeting because it had not yet been confirmed with lhe special consultant who was hired to conduct lhe planning and goal-setting sessions. One might wonder: Was the county board conveniently observing the letter of the law by posting the meeting at the courthouse and on the county website or was it avoiding the obligation to let the public know so it could meet in private? These people are public servants who are required by law to do their business in pub•e, with limitations clearly spelled out for when they arc allowed to hold a private meeting. When lhe commission met for lhe second session Jan. 29, the courthouse oors were locked, making it impossible for members of the public to attend lhe meeting after 5 p.m. Because we attend these meetings, cover local government and do our due diligence, we found out about the meetings and were J ere to report the outcome (see the story in issue of The Banner). I don’t believe commissioners met with an intention to avoid the public, but they certainly didn’t o ow t le spirit of the law, which requires transparency. Fred Jacobs, CEO. J-/\d Graphics Inc. -* What do you l.ie-aK. AUvemua,.^,,-^ ‘ v vjXuially in i,»v v '’letijh) l’.“l 'In- r>c,( "Msun'11 * * Itborluxxl, . with my think? Here’s your chance to take part in .n .... ,w • Ila>iingsBai>nercon>.,’Rcsu|lswnid"’"'' .’r ‘"'• Tauoi Carol pfe l»r •*” “‘■'I mhici- ±ng-1 >»ur •‘'"•‘-' •giiK-mbv,,,-1; . k.„i life lt »'the cm-■ Kh" pa n. Last week: A report released lust ur 4 hv i-1 MulwcM li>.e,t M,chiRall u; Mares lor eqintahk- |undill!. ()f „c|) ™ > f ve you think it s time fVi ,|le sl.... , usu,u*- Do schixil funding formula’’ ° nivaniP its For this week: Gov. Greichen Whitmer Plans to ask the State ransportation Commission o bond for $3.5 billion over ive years to fix major roads and bridges. Do you think the governor should have the ability to do this without the OK of the state Legislature^ Yes Cl Yes _ UNo �The Hayings Barver — Thursday. February 6, 2020 — Page 5 Listen to public, look at the big Plc*ure O> the editor: received in response to my r"------- \ l~] Thom»n..u ,VX lasl ThomappJe ““I l1 >ub| , i'‘C; forun,> »< * the the was an exnr 5 Churvh was no’ ,or mc-II the audicnr MOn °f ,hc P™01™1 thoughts trying *° ,C" ’hc q°“"* to them" h'S'l-r': Don * 1 L . chance to f" i|“ O ) I------- , lis,en lo ro'1 ,iMcn OA1/C ISSUes -,hc j;,il a,ul ,hc COA are mil p—ll_. —) ball°'' bo,h hnve a 8<xxl Wni!l ?K.U L84 ,o piel< onc to s,ar< wi,h' the jail *ould be the wiser choice. This is the service as elected officials, are legally obligated to supply. t . GOA has benefits to the public, but arC ^ter ways to provide these services l1..?.111 sPenJing $3-$5 million on a new nmlding. Many of the functions of lhe COA are better served, not to mention less expensive, in the outer areas of the county in the taxpayers’ own backyards. Even the jail has critical questions to be answered relative to the size and location of the most effective use of the facility and operation dollars. As I have said many times before, look at both issues from 10,000 feet for the big Rule with courage, rather than fear To the editor: 1 am so proud and thankful that the Barry Countx Board of Commissioners voted to send the letter to Mike Pompeo to allow refugees in Barr)' County. I was sorry I missed hearing, in person, lhe moving statements quoted in the Banner Jan. 16 from those who spoke in favor of it. I noticed that many of those who spoke in favor of it were from people who had firsthand experience with refugees, and they were all positive experiences. I think it is safe to say most refugees are regular people who would rather live in their countries of origin with family and friends and perhaps a language that is more familiar. but their situation has become so degraded they need to find refuge in another country. I’m glad we will be among those places in the U.S. that will be open to refugees; meeting people with a message of welcome instead of slamming the door in their faces in their time of need. When it boils down, it is about not letting our fear rule us in uncertainty, but rather being courageous and leading with our hearts - as acting out of love of God reminds us to do over and over. Shannon Thornton. Hastings (write Us A Letter: picture rc,a,,Vvi , ia\l!LIUse Wended and spending valuable l‘‘^lollars wisely. Hasiin„. ... Ji!" Br«wn. Charter township Broken system needs repair ■ To the editor: Congress "aS to be a citizen legislature. Our rvpix.sur»laii\cs were supposed lo go to Wwhtngton D.C., scrve for "shon term, then return «’ me under the laws they made. This vision has lone been lost. Congress is a haven for career politicians who Put their own power, perks and privileges ahead of public service. Even worse, they are impossible to unseal, thanks to cozy connections with lobbyists and special interests. The system is broken and needs repair. The solution? Tenn limits. If we do not act now. we may never Ik* able to bring back government of. by and for the people. Tom Burghdoff, The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: •All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • ’’Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Woodland Rep. Julie Calley (R-Portland) invited Hastings Mayor David Tossava to attend Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s State of the State address Jan. 29 in Lansing. A former city employee and council member, Tossava was elected mayor in 2016 and began serv­ ing in January 2017. (Photo provided) Know Your Legislators Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013. Lansing, Mich. 48909 Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County) Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon. Republican, 19th District State Senate. Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov US mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036. Lansing Ml 48909. U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash. Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon Hoikp Office Building, Washington. D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (2021 2?s 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich 4Q«™ phone (616) 451-8383. ’ 4ab03* U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washinoton n r 20510. phone (202) 224-4822. u on' u uGary Peters, Democrat, 2 Russoll Senate Office Building, Washington, D C Pnmn 2202 Phone (248) 799 0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Buildino Rnnm 720 110 Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 23^ 9150 President's comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Banner Devoted to the Interests oj Barry County Since IS 56 The Hastings Qfv> StuP Shop (lh;:;..!>; (M4> IM) A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (2G9) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Pub!isher & GEO Hank Schuurlng o ju a m !□ 5 CO p.m CFO Rebecca ffiK***6*^ TaylofOwens GrejChat^6' tv Ik.r. P/rjC Lake; Dorter CoytfiySty? Chris SilvsX n Subscription Rates: $45 per yoar in Qarrv ~ , SSOperyear.nadSxTc^nZ'00^ V - • tk'v p.-rn^^GhShop al Ml 47159 Grcssiy PdtOHl MV Pi Bunjlcld; Lake Clde-.sa: ponlin<i: •. ( C ,l.s Prairieville: ^rrr^ $55 per year elsewhere POSTMASUR^^.,. ’ 0. &3X UH Mo'ihville: The IV.aS:- Jennie Yonkor .newsroom- IA7 : Cloverdale Gun fake: Sim's Go'Jnnel I xds ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT Scott Ommen M.te Gilmore W Greg’s Get It N Go v ' '.nd press releases: news&]-adgraphlcs.a>m ■ Meen.s.ng: ads&l-Mg^.^ co,n Freeport t Woodland: M Id die v illc: Hastings Banner, Inc. Frederic Jacobs BANNER Aren Locations to purchase the Hastings Banner! Devoted to the interests of Harry County since 1856 Pu^hedb/.. Leadership Barry Coosuty welcomes class of 2020 Friday evening. Leadership Barry County welcomed its 2020 class to begin a new program. Between now and April, the group of 21 will take part in eight leadership-building sessions, not including the final session which is a graduation and alumni dinner. The 2020 class is the 30th group to join more than 500 other graduates of the program that has been running since 1990. Coordinator Bob Nida, a former Barry County court administrator, was on hand for the event, along with Jan Hartough. Leadership board member, both of whom have been integral parts of the event since its inception. This year s class began its experience at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute with a leadership retreat Pictured are (front row, from left) Ashley Gilbert Amanda Conley. Jeff Domenico, Carlos Zink, Amanda Eavey. Becky Morgan, Katy Defcotto. Stephanie Lehman; (middle) Emily Gary. Sarah Hyvarmen. Heidi Sewell, Allison Frith, Liz Lonergan, Peggy Hemerling. Martha Gibbons: (back) Jim James. Casey Mickelson. Gavm Denman, Hannelore Fishell, Steve Lehman and Alan Klein. • *4.37^ Orr^i< i •’ GoHsvwrthys St. She|b] rill■: �| Worship I Together ...at the church ofyour choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches Gregory William Fouty. „"rvJean pawlo^ki^enQQr Latno^eaux Gerald LeRoy Pattok available for your convenience... CHRLSI THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) |»~ L’8 N Jefferson Street. j . Worship 10 a rn Nursery । ^provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616 690­ ' >(819. j! HASTINGS ASSEMBLY Ol GOD 1674 S. Stale Rd.. Hastings. Ml 49058 Phone 269 9452285 Sunday moming .service time 10 a m. w ith nursery *»nd preschool available. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coals Grove Rd. Pastor Rand’ll Bertrand Wheel­ chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd . P.O. Box 273. Hastings. Ml 49058. Pastor Scott Price Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: uww iifegateec com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Lite Group 6:30 p.m. FIRS T PRIvSBl'TERIAN I REEPORT BAPTIST CHURCH OF HASTINGS ‘ CHIRCH SharingJam with our *380 Comity I inc Rd.. community di the world! •Freeport. Ml 193 . (269) 405 N M-37 Hwy.. Hastings. >60-1928. Pastor Ron A Ml 4905.8 (269) 945-5463. IraJitional style i>t worship, -'VAvv\Jk\Ldmrxhk!Mui£s. no gmrmicks, and friendly qq:. 9 a.m. Classes and people welcome you to Gatherings for All ages; 9:45 worship at .m old country a.m. Worship (Children's church. Sunday School SOLID ROCK BIBLE W orship Offered); 10:45 a.m. 9.45 a m. Sunday Worship CHURCH OE DELTON j! a in. Sunday Evening 0 7025 Milo Rd.. P.O. Box Coffee Fellowship; 11:15 p m. Wednesday Bible 765, (corner of Milo Rd. a.m. Coffee Talk vv ith Pastor Study and Prayer 7p.m. &S. M-43). Delton. Ml Dan. Follow us on Facebook. Gist us (he pleasure of 49046. Pastor Roger WOODLAND UNITED Claypool. (517) 204-9390. METHODIST CHURCH Sunday Worship Service 203 N. Main. Woodland. Ml I GR ACE COMMUNITY 10:30 to 11:30am. Nursery 48897 • 1269) 367-4061. I; CHURCH and Children’s Mini'•try. Pastor Kathy Smith. Sunday 1- ^950 E M 79 Highuav. Wednesday night Bible ! ’ N ishville. Ml 49073. Pastor study and prayer time 6:30 Worship 9:15 am to 30 pm. COMMUNITY . J783. Sunday service 10am. BAPTLSI CHURCH i .Fellow ship lime before the ABUNDANT LIFE 502 East Grand St., Hastings. ,’mce Nursery. children’s FELLOWSHIP Pastor Ken Hale. Sunday -.ministry, south group, adult MINISTRIES School for adults and children •-small group ministry, A Spirit-rilled church. 9:45 a m : Sunday Service 11 -leadership training. Meeting at the Maple lx:af a.m. Nun-cry provided. Call Grange, Hwy M-66 svuth ol 269-945-9217. ebebastings. HASTINGS Assyria Rd.. Nashville, ore We are a small church, but HOPE UNITED Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & we serve a mighty Lord. •>’ METHODIST CHURCH Worship 10:30 a m., 0 p.m.; 2920 S. M-37 Hwy. (M-37 at Wed. 6:30 pm. Jesus Chib HASTINGS FREI’M 79) Pastor Kim Mct/er for boys girls ages 4-12. METHODIST CHURCH ■'•Phone 269 945-4995. Pastors David and Rose "An Expression Of Whojesus n,h a stingshopeumc.org MacDonald. An oasis of Is To The World Around Us". ” haslingshopcmnct'’ gmail. God's love. “Where 2635 N M-43 Hwy.. P.O. Box com Wr welcome YOU to Everyone is Someone 8, Hastings. Telephone 269­ h>.ri us on S.uv'd'' Afornim’v Special.” For information 945-9121. Email hastfmcfo i at 10:30 J,r worship! Find call 616-731-5194. gmaikwu. Website: w^baSE IS* Ou Fac'fU)ok! >>t Pastor has i in i! • ht >p< in’:. Brian Teed. Student Ministries GREEN STREET Director. Emma Miller, Wor UNIT ED METHODIST PLEASANTVIEW ship Director. Martha Stoetze!. CHURCH FAMILY CHURCH 209 W . Green St.. Hastings, Sundays: Nursery and tod­ 2601 Lacey Road. Dowling. Ml 49058. Rev. Bryce dler (birth through age 3) care Ml 49050. Pastor. Steve Eeighner Oftice Phone. 269- provided. SUNDAY' MORNOlmstead. (269) 758-3021 945.9574. Email: office. ING FAMILY HOUR WELchurch phone. Sunday greenstreelumcf? gmail com. COMES ALL AGES AND Service: 9:3(1 ant. Sunday Sunday, Schedule - lhe STAGES OF LIFE AT 9:30 School II am.; Sunday Praise 9:30 a.m. ; The Word ti.ni. Deep Blue. Loving God. Evening Service 6 p.m.: 10 a.m.: The Table 10:30 a m. Lev ing Neighbor Preschool Bible Study .k Prayer Time Nursery Care is available age 3-5th Grade. Live: 6th-12th Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. through age 4: PreK-Sth Grade. Adult Standard and grade Sunday School 10 a.m.; Adult Elective classes. Coffee MCCALLUM UNITED Sunday Schoo! for Adults at Talk: Fellowship Hall. Cookies BRETHREN CHURCH I! a.m. Upright Revolt a! 10.05 a m. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. & Children’s 5505 Oti> Lake Rd . Delton. Youth Ministry (6th-12th Ml 49046. Phone: 269-623­ grades) 5:30-7:30 p.m. FREE Church age 4-4th grade dis­ 8226. New pastor - Jerald Community Meal every missed during service. Youth Jones. Sunday Service; Tuesday at 5 p.m. Refer to Group at 6 pm. 2nd Tuesday: 10:31-11:46*. * Coffee Facebook for weather Young Women’s Small Group. 6 p.m. Wednesday: Women’s conditions. Connection. Nursery. Bible Study 6:30-7:30 pm. • Children’s ministry. KID’S CLUB: Feb. 5th-March HASTINGS 18th, 6:30-7:45 p.m. Thurs­ BAPI IST CHURCH SAINTS ANDREW & day: Adult Bible Study 10 a.m. 309 E. Woodlawn. Hastings. MATTHIA For mure information please Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. INDEPENDENT contact lhe church or follow us Sunday Services; 9:15 a m. ANGLICAN CHURCH on face book 2415 McCann Rd (in Sunday ScT.ool for all ages; 10:30 a.m Worship Service; Irving). Sunday services GRACE LUTHERAN each week: 9:15 a.m. Senior High Youth Gtoup CHURCH Morning Prayer (Holy 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 Discoxir Gods Grate with usr p.m. Wednesday, Family Communion the 2nd Sunday Holy Communion Evcrx Sunday! of each month at this Night 6:30-8 p in., AWANA Feb. 9 - Worship services al 8 service). 10:30 a.m. Holy (Children Kindergarten-5th ant. and 10:45 a.m. Nursery Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle Communion (each week) available Ixtth services. Feb. School Youth Group; 6:30 10 Outreach Mtg. 4:30 p ,n lhe Rector of Ss. Andrew A Matthias is Rt. Rev David p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Feb. II - Brothers of Grace 7 I liustwick. The church Call Church Office 948­ p in. Pastor Ken Scheck JI. phone number is 269-795­ 8004 tor information on pastoiken1?' grace-hustings, 2370 and the rectory number MUT (Mothers in I raining org. Location: 239 E. Nort|j Together), Sporh Ministries. St.. Hastings, 2W-945-9414 or is 269-948 9327 Our church Quilling. Ladies Bible Study 945 2645. lax 269-945-2698 7. cb'itt is www <.-.mchurch. www, grace-havtings.org. orp. We arc part of the Lacebook: Grace Lutheran Di .esc of the Great Lakes WELCOME CORNERS Church-ELCA Hastings, ML UNITED METHODLST v. lncb o ji. communion with ‘lhe United Episcopal CHURCH Church o‘ North America 3185 N. Bntadway. I la dings. Hid use the 1928 Book < f Ml 49058. Phone 945-2654. C onnnofl Prayer at all otu Worship Services: Sunday, 9.45 a.m service" | li'is infoniKilioii on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches 3 ’ ' <»se local businesses: sFlexfob Hh 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 1699 W. M43 Highway. Hastings, Ml 49058, 945-4700 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 Mary Jean, a8c 78. passed aw ay unexpectedly on January 30. 2020. Mary Jean was a very |Ovjng caring wife, mother, Oma, sister, aunt, cousin and friend. She was preceded in death by her parents Edward and Eleanor Pawloski; first husband. Jun “John” Havciuar; brother, James Pawloski. and sister, Carol Pawloski. Mary Jean is survived by her husband Cal, whom she married on May 6, 2006; hcr three sons. John (Felicia) Havenaar, Jerry (Deb) Havenaar. and Jay Havenaar; daughter, Jena (Wayne) Nooney; ar.j |4 grandchildren Jack, Tim, Ian, No^ Brittani, Rachelle, Erika, Kari. Mikah, Phoebe, Johana, Davis, Tcighlor, and Blake; and siblings. Donna (Tom) Kinnane, Rose (Jim) Ennis, Dawn (Dennis) Vanderstel, Lou (Jamie) Aranguren, Kaye (Darrell) Evans, Nancy (Ron) Zoennan. Sophie (Jim) Radiinski, and Mike Pawloski; and numerous extended family and friends. Mary Jean w as born on January' 21. 1942 in Byron Center, md was the oldest daughter of Edward a\j Eleanor Pawloski. Mary Jean graduated Ugh school from St. Augustine in Kalamauo. She earned her bachelor’s degree in biiness administration from Davenport Col leg She started her care^al the United States Postal Service at the Khmazoo Miller Road location, working thirZ*W( unloading mail bags. Over die y ears' Mary Jean worked hcr way up io being a postmaster it the Big Rapids. Battle Creek, and ComsK’k Park locations. She retired from the PostalService and worked for Senior Neighbors in Grand Rapids. She found hcr ultimate job being a clerk for lhe Village of Middleville. She was elected to Middleville Village Counsel, leading to her passton of extending the 'fhomapple Trail. Mary Jean loved to be surrounded by family and friends. She and Cal received the 2016 Volunteer of lhe Year Award from the Chief Noonday chapter ol the North Country Trail Association. Mary Jean played an active role in Barry County Historical Society, Woodpeckers Festival (Middleville). Thomapple Kellogg Library­ Board and many other associations. Memorial services will be held al 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 8, 2020 at Middleville Christian Reformed Church, "08 West Main St.. Middles illv. Ml 49333. The family will receive relatives and friends from 4-7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 7 at the church as well as one hour prior to the sen ice on Saturday. In honor of Mary Jean and in lieu ot flowers, memorial contributions may he made to Thomapple Traq Association, PO Box 393, Middleville, 49333. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www. cookcares.com. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Friday, Feb. 7 hool >tory time, 10:30-11 a.m. Monday, Feb. ' Quilling P^s*o,ls» 10 a.m.-l p-tn . e Tuesday, Feb. U 10:30-11 a.m ; Great Decisions: Televl><’ . Kibhniii: India and Pakistan, n<xjn. Ind’3 il,ul Foreign AHairs Discussioi’s Pakistan, 1-3 p nv. ‘ , dub. 5:30; euchre, 5.ol t''e Wednesday, Feb.'. Vne,v BrU’D Library nutting. . P l0\ti«.''iS1'nHounds: Manoomin \u.i. uice 1 7 8:30 p.m. n , U) a.mThursday, Feb. B . H.xVV t'i‘u^-k^ones noon; Movie Nk-U ’ > ‘ Day. watches 1946 s p.roRobert Mitchum and ft ki <»lhcr More mloIm.,uon^ ^^ntsisavmUbWh 945-4263. ' HASTINGS. MI - Gerald LeRoy Paltok, age 82, of Hastings, passed away on January 31, 2020. Gerald was born on October 7, 1937 in Hilliards, the son of John and Anna (Lutostanski) Pattok. Jerry was a 1955 graduate of Wayland Union High School. He ran track and played tennis and football in high school. He attended Kalamazoo College on a football scholarship, Aquinas College, and graduated from Western Michigan University in 1961. receiving his master’s degree from Antioch in 1973. Jerry proudly served his country in the Marine Corps Reserve from 1954-1957. On June 25, I960, Jerry married, Sandra Keeney, and they would have been married for 60 years in June of 2020. Jerry was a science teacher at Hastings High School, retiring in 1992. Jerry was a former member of the Moose and Elks Lodges. I le served as president of the Hastings Education Association for three years. He attended St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, and more recently Emmanuel Episcopal Church of Hastings. He was also a member of Lifelong Learning Institute. In 1970, Jerry was named Young Educator of the Year by lhe Junior Chamber of Commerce. In 2004, Jerry hiked every trail in Barry County. He wrote a brochure with a map of the trails that was printed by J-Ad Graphics and passed out by the Chamber of Commerce. He belonged lo lhe Chief Noonday Chapter of lhe North Ccountry Trail. For an updated version, go lo northcounlrytrail.org, click Chief Noonday Chapter, and click Barry County Hikes. Jerry' was elected treasurer of the student senate at Aquinas College. He served three years as treasurer of the Barry County Conservation Club. After having served five terms for a total of 15 years on the Barry County Community Mental Health Authority, Jerry was appointed to another term of three years by lhe Barry County Commissioners on March 20, 2018. Jerry was an avid fisher and hunter and enjoyed camping and long motorcycle trips with his friend. He and his wife, Sandi, spent nine years traveling, and especially enjoyed spending a month in Australia In 2015, they were named Senior Citizens of the year. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, his son Tycho Pattok, and brother, Tom Pattok. He is survived by his wife, Sandra Pattok; children, John (Sheryl) Pattok, Eric (Kathryn) Paltok, Laura Pattok; grandchildren. Johnathan (Samantha) Smith, Jessica (Kevin) Boonstra. Anna, Emily, Sydney, Kathleen, Matthew, Sam, Lauren, Jake Pattok; great-grandchildren, Theo and Alice Smith, and his sister. Patricia (Ron) Pattok. Funeral Services will be held al 1) a.m. on Thursday. Feb. 6, 2020 at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 315 West Center Street, Hastings, Mil 49058 with visitation one hour prior. In lieu of flowers, donations may he made to lhe charily of your choice. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuncralhome.net. Call 269-945-9554 tor Hastings Banner classified ads Gregory William Fouty, bom March 15, 1948 in Hillsdale, unexpectedly passed away at home on January 30. 2020. He attended North Adams High School where he was an All-Stale Football player. After graduation, Greg married Ruth (David) Fouty in 1967; and attended Adrian College until being drafted into the U.S. Army where he served two years in Germany. Following his honorable discharge, Greg returned to Michigan where he was accepted into the 82nd Michigan State Trooper Recruit School. During his career as a Trooper, Greg served al the Benton Harbor and New Baltimore Posts; retiring from the Hastings Post in 1996. Greg enjoyed all outdoor activities, taking his canine buddies on Kubota rides through lhe woods, spending time with his grandchildren giving them valuable knowledge (even when to know when lie was just “pulling their legs”). He also loved attending the grandkids’ sporting events and entertaining all of his friends and family with his many stories. Greg was a member of the Wild Turkey Federation, Pheasants Forever, and was an instructor at the Women in the Outdoors events where he developed long lasting and treasured friends from each organization. Greg was preceded in death by his parents - John and Barbara (Denning) Fouty, and his sister, Beth (Fouty) Slokka, his brother-in­ law, Lewis (Bud) Olney, and nephew. Bryan Olney. Greg is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Ruth; three sons - Alan (Heather), David, and Thonuts Fouty; his grandchiIdren/true joys Greg Fouty. Kate (Everett) Lanphar, Timothy, Michael. Grace, Carson, and Collin Fouty. Amanda (Trevor) Peterson, and Anthony Layne; great­ grandson — Andrew Lanphar; his siblings Douglas (Ann), Steve Fouty, and Brenda (James) TordorolT; brother-in-law William Stokka, and several cousins, nieces and nephew. Through his years. Greg touched many lives and developed many great friendships - his best buds John. Rick, and “special couple L.mma and Dan. I lis commitment to his beloved family and friends will be forever missed. A funeral service to honor the life of Gregory William Fouty was Hampton Funeral Home in held al lhe Jackson on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2020 At his request cremation followed the ie service. Please visit ww.hamptonfuneralhom - Jcs.cotn to sign the guestbook and'or send a condolence to the family. Hampton Funeral Home - Jackson 517-315-4333 2^ Water ’s Edge Financial LLC Jeffrey A. Keessen, AIF” (269) 948-9969 W. Apple St. Hastings, MI 49058 w xvwav atcrscdgertnnncial.com JitltKi \ Ko All - taking tare i>f what's important to you >o that you can focux oh what matters most to you Sevunli*' n”''- 1 "L �The Hashnc', Banner — Thu'Lday, February 6, .7020 Pago 7 Floyd Gerald Bloss Smith, Jr aoc 7S rn ? Ktfnncl« Rene of Susan sL?’ ^’^ville, husband ,? jo.?'ndcPcndJn“. MO on December wiiihmt-m i vas ,h<;son of lhc l:,tc Lucilc Williams and Kenneth Ben e Smith, Sr. Hiohs'ias ? er?d“,c of William Chrisman " S^' “nd ,hc.UnivCTs'ty of Missouri, c e received his bachelor’s of science in mechanical engineering and his master’s degree in business administration and was an active member of the National Sporting Goods Association and First Presbyterian Church in Hastings, serving as a deacon, cider and finance chairman. He was a member of Bethesda United Methodist Church in Powdersville, SC and the Greenville Area Parkinson’s Society. Ken s main love was his family, enjoying lime with his children and grandchildren. He also loved traveling, especially to National Parks and Monuments, visiting 54 in all. He had a gift for poetry and a passion for creating and building projects. Moving to South Carolina four years ago, he was involved in Osher Life Long Learning Institute at Furman University and an avid supporter of lhe Greenville Symphony. Ken married Susan Settlage on August 24. 1968. After a brief Army Reserves commitment, he joined his father us production manager and the CFO of York Archery, a family owned business. He later assumed production manager role at Bear Archcry in Gainesville, FL and Proline Archery in Hastings. His last and favorite career was a manufacturers representative for Warmington Industries in Grand Rapids. In addition to his loving wife, he is survived by a daughter. Beth Ann Smith of Grand Rapids; a son, Brice Smith (Amanda) of Greenville; grandchildren, Vivian Smith arid Owen Smith; a sister, Linda Cozart of Alamosa, CO; two brothers-in-law, Hugh Cozart and Tom Settlage; and seven nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents. Ken was predeceased by a sister. Gayle Johnson and a sister-in-law; Jean Settlage. Memorial services will be held at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 8. 2020 at Bethesda United Methodist Church with visitation to follow' at lhe church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Greenville Area Parkinson’s Society, 40 John McCarroll Way, Greenville, SC 29607 or Bethesda United Methodist Church, 516 Piedmont Rd. Easley, SC 29642. Visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home & CrematoryPowdersville Road, Easley. WHITE CLOUD. MI - Catherine (Cathy/ Cate) Rose Mead, age 61, of White Cloud, passed aw ay January 30, 2020. She was bom January 24, 1959 in Hastings, the daughter of Leon and Sue (Bishop) Smith. Cathy was a 1977 graduate of Hastings High School. Cate was a lover of animals, often fostering rescued cats and dogs. She was a leader in the Barry County 4H K-9 club for many years. She leaves behind her special fur babies Mario, Luigi, Ghost and Baghera. She also enjoyed creating hcr own gifts for others including hand-made clothing, quills or afghans. Cathy was preceded in death by her husband, Harry Douglas (Doug) Mead, as well as hcr father and mother. She is survived by her fiance, William (Bill) Bailey of White Cloud. She leaves behind her sons. Charles (Janice) Mead, Aaron Mead, Cricket Randall and Brock Randall. As well as seven grandsons, Dylan, Douglas, Noah and Samuel Mead, Parker Mead. Shawn and Blake Sibley and seven granddaughters, N’autica, Justice and Trinity Burkett. Kyra and Kendall Sibley, Payton and Paisley Randall. Cathy is survived by her sisters, Brenda (Scott) Benton, Cheryl Semler and her brother, Gary' Smith. She was also survived by hcr nephews, Wyatt Benton, Wesley (Lavonne) Semler and her nieces, Ashley (Chris) Allison, Kaitly n (Khalcn) Laubaugh and Erica Smith. There will be a view ing on Sunday, Feb. 9. 2020 at Girrbach Funeral Home, 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, from 2 to 4 p.m. with the funeral service following at 4 p.m. officiated by Pastor Jeif Dowell of the Hastings Seventh Day Adventist Church. This will be followed by a light dinner at the Hastings Seventh Day Adventist Fellowship Hall, 888 Terry Lane. I fastings. Ml 49058. Contributions in memory' of Cathy can be made to the Hastings Seventh Day Adventist Church to the address above or online al vwvvv.hastinessda.com. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, to leave an online condolence or make floral arrangements, visit www. girrbachfuneralhomc.net. THE Brown, age Fcbru. -urge I dward ’’’ages, Honda, passed away .mber 8 Gcor^e was born on P . „ » I Lt in Detroit, the son of Gcori rude Anna (Esch) George W* a1 <• ol Mackenzie High School i" jsion 0 for the Detroit City D‘ f p|Rsburgh Plate­ Glass Comply* he met his wifc Martha Jane K n^; ‘ were married in June 23. 1950. I^‘J^cnt un lo work |br Sherwin Williams C on puny and the Ferro Corporation. Herded•" 1987 and moved to Hastings.loudly served his country during . J* the United Slates Marine Corp. "ht‘r5 jvas stationed in the South Pacific and Otutdalcanal. George enjoyed traveiingand pbyjng goJf He was a member ol the Hastings Country Club, where he was honored as a Legend at the 2014 Member-Guest Tournament. Nc was a long-standing member of the First Presbyterian Church of Hastings where he held several offices. George was preceded jn death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Martha; his daughter. Sue (Dave) Doozan of The Villages, FL, and his son. Richard (Wendy) Brown of Milford, and his six grandchildren. .A Celebration of Life will be held at Sumter Grand. 1490 Killingsworth Way, the Villages, FL 32162 at I on Saturday. Feb. 29, 2020. Internment, with full military honors will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may bc made to lhe US Department of Veterans Affairs at https://vvvv vv.v a.gov'(XJC/GiftsToVA .asp or lhe American Lung Association at https:// www.lung.org/. Arrangements by Girbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhonic.rrt. Floyd Gerald Bloss, age 93, passed away on Sunday morning. February 2, 2020 after a lengthy battle with dementia. Floyd was born October 28. 1926 in Chittenango, NY to Floyd G. and Mildred (Thayer) Bloss. Floyd served in the United States Air Force from October 5, 1946 lo August 30. 1949. He was stationed in Cheyenne, WY where he was introduced to Lyla through a friend, who thought they would be perfect for each other. They began corresponding through letters. As soon as he was honorably discharged from the service, he made his way to I I as tings to meet Lyla in person. The rest is history and he married the love of his life, Lyla Reaser on February 9, 1950. Floyd was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife Lyla and children, Debra. Kim and Craig; brother, Robert; sisters, Ruth Anderson. June Bloss and Lois Davis; brothers-in-law. Charles Reaser, Harry Reaser, Robert Reaser and Ralph Reaser, sisters-in-law Patricia Fuhr, Joyce Martz, and Kale Cisler. Floyd was a generous man and a sweet soul and will be deeply missed by his brother Walter and sister Marie Hale; sistersin-law. Shirley Reaser and Janet Reaser of Hastings and Phyllis Bridenstine of Galesburg; as well as many nieces and nephews and several great-nieces and nephews. Floyd and Lyla loved and laughed throughout their 64 years of marriage. Floyd was a very astute and multi-faceted businessman with successful businesses in Hawaii, Las Vegas and Michigan. Floyd’s remains will be interred at Dowling Cemetery with his wife and family. No services will bc held. Memorial contributions may be made to Barry' County Commission on Aging. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuncralhome.net. MIDDLEVILLE. MI - Alicia Jane Lethcoe, age 88 of Middleville, passed away on February’ 2,2020. Alicia was born on March 21. 1931, in Grand Rapids lo Orlando and Marguerite Lohr. Alicia grew up in Vermontville and Nashville surrounded by a large and loving family of uncles, aunts, cousins, and grandparents. Al age 12 Alicia moved to Hastings where she graduated from I tastings High School in 1949. then attended Bronson Hospital School of Nursing. Alicia spent her early married life as a homemaker in Nashville until 1962 when the family moved to Middleville. She worked as the secretary for the Middleville Police Department, and later managed a medical practice at Butterworth Hospital. After retirement Alicia was a volunteer victim’s advocate for the Barry County Sheriff’ Department’s Victim Services Unit. Alicia also spent years clerking for Wendell Tobias Auctioneers, which nicely coincided with her passion for garage and yard sales. Alicia is survived by her children. Eric Gragg, Archie Gragg and fiance Lindy Black, Alana (Alan) Cowan, and Thomas Andrew Lethcoe; grandchildren, Andrew Lethcoe. Alealt Dockstader, Richard Gragg. Alan Gragg, Andrea Gragg (Nate) Nofsingcr. Blair Cowan. Johnathan (Christy) Cowan; and great grandchildren. Kaylee Lethcoe, Jonathon Lethcoe, Molly Nofsingcr, and Ben Nofsingcr. Alicia always had lime for her grandchildren and they spent many weekends and summer vacations with her. They will miss her dearly. Memorial contributions may be made to Interim Healthcare Hospice. As Alicia requested, cremation has taken place, arranged by Beeler-Gorcs Funeral Home. Alicia’s ashes will bc interred with her mother at a private family gathering al a later date. Please visit wwvv.beclergorcsfuneral.com to share a memory' or to leave a condolence message for Alicia’s family. mol aboard the nostalgic replica steamboat Marriage licenses Brooklyn Marie Bowers. Middleville and Alex Micah Herrera, Middleville Jennifer Joann Smith. Freeport and Aaron Rodney Evans. Freeport Hunter Philip Ilerich. Middleville and Anna Katherine Sloinp, Big Rapids Michelle Angela Vanier. Hastings and Dequilla Saint James Daniel Lackley, Albion Quebec City. Ottawa, Kingston departures Can nor/ to request our travel bioclin'c StLawren ce Cruise Lines cc.-n 1 -800-267-7868 rl FING American /tgfc Metal Roofs TIME 10 GET YOUR I 94 VlSTFo’l’ 104 | 11177 Mrfh’igonAkenue I Battle Get*, Ml 49014 x--3 Danny Up ford illKnf ______ 156918 •NOT A FHtt.BOO F OF f L rt C8TY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS State Street Resurfacing For Details Visit: AmericanMetalRoofs.coin/TV Elaine Garluck Tomorrow. Feb. 7. will bring another soup supper al lhe museum sponsored by lhe Lake Odessa Area Historical Society from 5.30 to 7 _ ,n Visitors can enjoy some grea food and Stfasant company amid a great collection ol P earn items and colorful Memory trees. mSaturday. the Ionia County genealogical baI, ™ <n meet at J pan. with a speaker. S'S .’’refreshments and. as always, library . of conversation. Meetings ‘"‘Tthe museum on Emerson Street. aiv ot the mu Cross W11I bc In M°to it's bbnontitly blood collection from K,wn for"'" Th; calncen provides some A story in lhe Grand Rapids PreKS rel... that the replacement bridge on Whiles Bridge Road on lhe west side ol Ionia Countv n..nh of M-21 is about half done. nearly seven years since the bridge was v.ct,m of arson. Much fund^inb^ been done to t eplace the covered bridge Tire new bridge is almost a copy Of .« , except that it had to be buihVL^mmS two lanes ot tratite. The new bridge will accommodate school buses or ambulance b not trucks more than 12 feel hit'll n,„ .■ bridge had a lirmt of .ess thanTeens ' Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads .................. *.............. Thursday. Feb- 13Another stritir 1 siding <>l wils there lor only a lew rj llor ears is on the Kecenll> another . ..... Position Opening The Barry' county Abstract Department is accepting applieau°nh »or a full time County Abstractor tv) maintain 1County’s tract index, index legal descript’005.10-the appropriate recorded documents, proof index,ng aj| documents, assist businesses, public an c°hnty departments in finding recorded document ana localprOperlv description. The base pay rJ u h $21.4-4 per hour. Please Cn?'er letter, resume and completed j°b ‘.rdor n n to: Michael Brown. County Admim* ’ tarry County Administration- 220 WeS! ^nand ?1’ Ml 49058. /\n applt'-^111 description is available at BOk j’’ Or by contacting Harry County Adinit’1' A 269.945.(784. nibrslSJUjt DCadli^2>PlVing: open unti! filled. The City of Hastings is soliciting bids for the milling and resurfacing of a portion of W. State Street in Hastings, Ml. The Bid Documents are available at Hastings City Hall. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irreg­ ularities in the bid proposals, and to award I the bid as deemed to bc in the City’s best interest, price and other factors consid­ ered. Bids will be received at Hastings City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michi­ gan 49058 until 2:00 PKT on Thursday, February 27, 2019 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Bids will bo clearly marked on the outside ot the submittal package - “SEALED BID STATE STREET RESURFACING’*. Matt Gergen Director of Public Services �Students encouraged to explore education and career pathways ww* Career and technical education offers hreh vjiool students hands-on training that caa be applied to real-world, in-demand cd’.icmon. naming and career pathways. With more than 545jOOO Michigan job opemmw through the year 2026. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer joins Michigan Department o( 1 abor and liconomic Opportunity and M. -hi.> Denarimcnt of Education to declare ._ -i r-'/iti.-mion February as Career and Technical Month. During the month, s ‘‘ |o encourage students and their explore viable programs across ^ Mat^at teach skills needed for high-demand, high training pathways that lead to « prosperous ^Doctor ® Universe Beach babies Dr. Universe: H7n won't a female sea turtle lay Iter ».cf!^s in the ocean? How do baby turtles know when' the ocean is when they hatch from their eggs? Jasmine and Shewn, ti, Gainesville, Fla. beach can be a difficult place to lay eggs. “Normally, female turtles do not lay their eggs in the water. But if disturbed when on the beach and distracted multiple nights from returning to the nest, they will dump their clutch in the ocean,” Paladino said. Humans also can cause problems for hatchlings as the liny turtles leave lhe nest and head toward the ocean. To find the ocean, hatchlings follow the brightest light source. I lave you ever noticed how a pond or lake sparkles in lhe sun? This is because light bounces off the surface of the waler. Under natural conditions, the ocean is brighter than the brach because it reflects light from the sun and the moon. But when humans are around.other light sources can confuse turtle hatchlings. “Lights from houses and hotels on turtle beaches distract them. Instead of going lo the sea, they will head toward the house lights which are the brightest horizon.” Paladino said. Light pollution can be dangerous for hatchlings, so some places have created rules to protect them. Paladino said turtle nesting beaches in Florida have shields to block human sources of light. Some even have special street lights designed to pre­ vent confusion among hatchlings looking for lhe ocean. Sea turtles follow their instincts in a cycle that takes them from the land, to lhe ocean. Although humans pose challenges to sea turtles, science can help them live alongside each other. Dear Jasmine and Shereen. Sea turtles spend almost their entire dives in lhe ocean. Even as babies, sea tur­ , ties’ bodies have special traits for living in *thc sea. helping them glide and paddle through the water. After emerging from " their eggs, baby sea turtles, or hatchlings, scramble to the ocean to live the rest of their ' lives. Only female sea turtles return to land as* adults, to lay eggs and begin the cycle again. 1 talked with my friend Erank Paladino to leant more about sea turtles. He complet•ed his Ph.D.al Washington State University, loday he is a professor at Purdue University Fort Wayne and former president of the • International Sea Turtle Society. He is espe­ cially interested in leatherbacks, the largest J,living turtle. 1 learned that a female sea turtle must return to the beach to lay eggs, even though -she is most comfortable in the ocean. This is .because her eggs can on!} survive on land. Babv sea turtles breathe through their eggs before hatching. Oxygen passes •through the eggshell and membrane, a thin 11 barrier surrounding the turtle. Even buried jin sand, unhalched turtles .still can breathe I through the eggs. They cannot breathe if the 'eggs are in water. • Sea turtle eggs also need warm tempera­ Dr. Universe . lures to grow properly. Beaches provide the .right conditions to help eggs develop. Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Mother sea turtles bun’ their group of eggs, Send an entail to Washington State or clutch, in sand} nests to protect them University’s resident scientist and writer until they are ready to hatch. at Dr.Universe^ wsu.edu or visit her web­ * But w hen lob of humans are around, a site, as kdrunivers e com. hdure.’Gov. Givtchcn Whi,0,er .j nj -fi education programs S! and employability s^|. .. al prepare our htg school Students phev- education and 21st ccntur^ carccr opportunities.” ’ Schools across Michigan °f(C> 1 programs that are a|ipn’d with high -demand, high-wage careers in fields.sUch n!‘.financc; health sciences, business marketing, and administration, infOrmution technology, skilled trades and advinLed manutactunng. Most programs also offer early college credit opportunities to provide a .soinilcss transition to ixistsecondaiy education. , . .|V “Jobs requiring skilled cmplo)ees Ux,a>’ as well as jobs on the horizon, demand greater education and training than ever before Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity Director Jcff Donofrio said. "By completing CTE programs, students gel a head start on their pathway t° n certificate in professional trades, apprenticeships or a twoor four-year college degree - ultimately preparing them for these high-skill, highdemand careers.” Enrollment in Michigan CTE programs is up by more than 6jOQO students since 2015 with total enrollment exceeding 110,000 in 2019. The numlx-r of C1E program completers has increased from 27,014 in 2015 to 47.314 in 2019 - a 75 percent increase. More than 95 percent of students who complete a CTE program go on to attend a postsecondar}' educational institution, seek advanced career and technical education training, sign up for military service, or find employment within a year of graduation, according to the Michigan Department of Education. Michigan’s data also shows that students who completed a CTE program and went on to earn a two-year degree, earn an average starting wage that is $4,300 more than their GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscriis ip the Hastind Banter. Call 269-945-9554 for more information. .. ____ “We need to continue expanding career and technical education programs in Michigan schools lo ensure students have the realworld, hands-on experiences they need for rewarding career opportunities,” State Superintendent Dr. Michael Rice .said. “As we move to make Michigan a top 10 education slate in 10 years, it is important that we inspire and encourage students to explore all w _____ long students, Parv . Adoring career careeroptions, options. Siudcnis. learners interes' projccte(l openings may training. was.c p‘ ,|,fjnder website. visit the s.,atel information about professional Additional I ranj Technical Education trades careers. ■> at GoingMonth and prof • on t|lc Michigan PRO.com/CfE jon-s website. Department of ______ Financial FOCUS Provided by the Barry County offices ofEdwurd Jones Revin dcua, 400 W. State St, SulteB Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 945-4702 Member SIK 307 E Green St, Ste. 1 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269)948-2003 Can you improve your relationship with money? In your life, you will have all sorts of relationships - with your family, your friends, your co-workers, and even with civic groups and charitable organizations you support. But have you ever considered another key rela­ tionship - the one you have with money? Of course, this type of rela­ tionship has several aspects, such as saving, spending and investing. And your fellow Americans clearly face some challenges in these areas. For example, in a recent survey by financial services firm Ed­ ward Jones, only 21% of re­ spondents reported that they feel happy when thinking about saving money, while 92% said they see room for improvement in their finan­ cial health. Yet only one in four plan to improve their spending habits. Furthermore, just 26% said retirement was a top savings priority. If you share some of these concerns, what should you do? Here are a few sugges­ tions: • Identify your money-re­ lated emotions. Try to recog­ nize lite emotions you feel in connection with saving and investing. Do you get nervous about spending? Does putting away money for lhe future not? give you satisfaction or Do you worry’ that you don t know how much you should be investing, or whether you’re investing in the right way? Clearly, these types ol questions can cause some anxiety - and, even more im­ portantly, they may lead you lo make poor decisions. Emo­ tions are obviously closely tied to money - but they re­ ally should not play a big role in your spending, saving and investing choices. • Develop afinancial strat­ egy. By developing a sound financial strategy, you can re­ duce money-related stress and help yourself feel empowered as you look to the future. A comprehensive strategy can help you identify your goals - a down pa}menl on a newhome, college for your chil­ dren, a comfortable retire­ ment, and so on - and iden­ tify a path toward reaching them. Your financial strategy should incorporate a variety of factors, including your age, risk tolerance, income level, family situation and more. 1 lore’s lhe key point: By cre­ ating a long-term strategy and sticking to it, you’ll be far less likely to overreact to events such as market downturns and less inclined to give in to impulses such as “spur of lhe moment” costly purchases. And without such a strategy', strategy'. you will almost certainly have less chance of achieving your important goals. • Get an "accountability partner. ” Your relationship ■ with money doesn’t have to bc monogamous - you can get help from an “account­ ability partner.” Too many people keep their financial concerns and plans to them­ selves. not even sharing them with their partners or other family members. But by be­ ing open about your finances to your loved ones, you can not only avoid misplaced ex­ pectations but also enlist the help of someone who may be able lo help keep you on track toward your short- and long-term goals. But you may also benefit from the help of a financial professional - some­ one with the perspective, expcrience and skills necessary to help you make the right moves. Like all successful rela­ tionships, lhe one you have with money requires work. But you’ll find it’s worth the effort. • '• » • '? This article was written by Edward Jonesfor use by your local Edward Jones Finan­ cial Advisor. NOTICE The Barry County Board of Commissioners is seeking applications from volunteers to serve on the following Boards/Commissions: Call 269-945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classified ads . 221 South Jefferson Street Hastings, Michigan NOTICE TO BIDDERS Sale of Surplus Vehicles The City of Hastings will be accepting bids through an online auction for the following: 2018 (BLACK) 4X4 GMC SIERRA 2500 HD DURAMAX with western Plow Mount (2-plug) 23,000 APPROX. MILES (VIN#1GT12SEY7JF132714) 2018 (DARK SLATE) 4X4 GMC SIERRA 2500 HD DURAMAX 14.000 APPROX. MILES (VIN# 1GT12SEY1JF133471) ■ 136691 Barry County Community Dialogue Event Purpose: Discussion for Potential Millaqe Election August 2020 The public is invited to participate in a discussion hosted by the Barry County Board of Commissioners. TowerPinkster of Kalamazoo will facilitate the discussion. The topics will tp the cur­ rent use and condition of the Barry County Ja'1 a nd Sheriffs Office, and the current use and con­ dition of the Commission on Aglnq facility in Hastings. Information will be shared a J public feedback and input is invited. The ev^iescheduled for the following dates and locations. Date/Time: Thursday. February 13, 2020 al 7.00 PM 2018 (RED) 4X4 GMC SIERRA 2500 HD DURAMAX with western plow mount 2-plug 10,000 APPROX MILES (V!N#1GT12SEY2JF132O54) (minor bumper blemish) The Cily of Hastings reserves the right to reject any or all bids or to waive irregularities in lhe City’s best interest. AH items can be viewed at Biddergy.com. Bidding will open on Thursday, February 20, 2020 at Location: Applications may be obtained at the County Administration Office S’51 floor of the Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings; or www.banycounty.org under the tab: How do I apply for: A position on an Advisory Board or Commission and click on apply; and must be returned no later than 5 00 p m. on Tuesday, February 18, 2020. Contact 269-945-1284 for more information. CITY OF HASTINGS I 36597 PUBLIC NOTICE ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 581 The undersigned, heing the duly qualified and acting Clerk of the Citv stmgs, Michigan, does hereby certify that ’ Johnstown Township Hall 13641 S. M-37 Hwy Battle Creek, Ml 400*17 ORDINANCE NO. 581* AN HRniNAMrr Or Date/Timr. Of the CrtJcteKcJy Sin201CEast Stated 2.'^* * °ffice Middleville. Ml 493^ through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. 8:00AM EST. Matt Gergen Director of Public Services Conservation-Easement; 1 township official or designee MantalHeaHhLAuttLQ£lty; 3 members: 1 must meet the consumer definition Elanning Commission; 2 members Tax Allocation; 1 Citizen at Large ^Qning_B5Brd_oLApp£aJsi 2 members (269) 945-3547 www.kamuelleraccounting.com 136H»9 CITY OF HASTINGS . K. A. MUELLER ACCOUNTING ' Hastln9s- Monday Harry County AdminHui"? ______________________ —' Hhll! Jane M. Saurman City Clerk �' fl look back at the stories and columns on local history In the Hastings Banner turning back the hcr lnf(, her thoron.1’^>f cyeTy inters in thc just srulenw* |y< fIJe cominp before her, and the ► . manif *’ ^npalhetie and womanly C^d in each and every A*is k, ,Bnrr>ifor^jnan>y^n,?,nunate in havmg had prt»b:itv . r. the services of such a caP’.|i |k* l°nX felt : ' ? er ,n,luence for g'^d jjivcn-Michi n lh»'* county in which she - scry. d y,‘l’conscientious performance4 > Presented to her. . friends bid adieu ji with for l 1,1 this official capacity an • J»n abundance of .. edition 'Ihat '’jnK announced. .< f ‘he Banner also Three nt’ff“Ces|"lhc courthouse PAGES (;,,a,Svci'’^‘tr,,i,'cju<,,!*;’ county * treasurer ■•Next wccL'2c'ti Wi" '^e place a State’s first female probate judge steps down considerable 5 J?.. n Personnel at the courthouse■noticeable to all in the habit olV,M * n-,,,C€S in that building. “In the pro 'je, the new judge will be Stuart Clenw” • 1 not seem so much of a change there. • Stuart has been the probate register for - . <-nilyears Nevertheless, it means assuming * gn*al responsibility for him. Fortunately. neh;LS cxcdIcn||y trained, under one . e most capable probate judges in the s a e of Michigan; Judge Eggleston ..." The other two new faccs WouJd be Texas native T.S.K. «id, succeeding Morris O. Hill as county clerk, and Lorenzo F. Maus, the new county ,njasu^ a seat then held by Willis Streeter. Mildred Smith was selected to serve as register of probate, and Metha Keech was chosen by Reid to be the assistant clerk. Though Judge Clement (1903-1995) was closer in age to Eggleston’s daughters, the LEGAL NOTICES Judge Ella Eggleston s large home at 528 S. Jefferson Si.. Hastings, had room to spare. The 1930 U.S. Census in addition to the judge’s family, shows ’'roomers” Beatrice Boyle. 35. and Alma Starks. 14. In 1940, the judge’s daughters Ethelyn and Eva were both living at the home, along with Ethelyn's 15-year-old son, and two foster children in the care of daughter Eva Hecox The “foster grandchildren” were listed as Philip Hecox and Patricia Hecox. both age 4. • Katin Maurer Copy Editor Before the U.S. ratified the 191*1 rXrnuiidment. giving women the right to vote, an esteemed lady was presiding in probate court in Barn County. Ella (Mills) Eggleston Was the first female probate judge in the slate of Michigan. But her accomplishments went far beyond that title. The Assy ria native and Nashville graduate never left Barry County - not even to attend college. She didn’t have a law degree. Yet she was praised here for her work in the probate office. Male counterparts from across the state sought her advice on various matters. Lawyers were confident in her decisions to the point that few cases of hers reached the state appeals court, and if they did, her rulings were upheld, according to a July 20, 1932, Banner article. , That article announced that Judge Eggleston, who would turn 59 the following month, was not seeking re-election. Five months later, the Dec. 28, 1932, Banner reminded readers she soon would lie leaving the courthouse: Judge Eggleston retiring Jan. 1 of dependent, delinquent and neglected children. “Naturally endowed with a judicial mind. Judge Eggleston has mastered the probate laws, as well as much of the general laws, of this state and is considered an authority on questions pertaining to the duties of this office. Hcr advice is often sought by lawyers of this and other counties on matters of thus character, and her decisions have been considered final. Al state gatherings, she has been honored by her co-workers and has served on numerous committees as well as in other capacities, and the attorneys have always shown her every consideration and respect. “Her advice is often sought by lawyers of this and other counties on matters of this character, and her decisions have been considered final." Barry County is losing a capable and ’ faithful official “With the retirement Jan 1. 1933, ol Judge Ella C. Eggleston as judge of probate for Barry County, we lose one of our most capable and faithful officials, one who has ever given of her best for the good ol others. “She began her training as probate register in January 1902, under the direction of her f".h" late Judge Ja.nes B Millsh.er continuing as register under judges Charles M Mack. George R. Hyde and Lilts C. firs' "j"'a" hold a judgeship in a court of record tn th.s '““■■Not many ol us realize the amount of i ,t kr "»led->e <>' 'he necessary tn work and kno ,J1iese |awj> are the closing '‘ an<J Jc(.j5jons are being constantly shunt' (ha( materially made by die 'I f states and the al,eCI "f nX-rty - ‘>n »" 1,1 which 8 J1'P,,si,,.,)"t „m keeptnf<.r.ned. probate judge must k I 1 -During the past „ thi> court have started each 'y ^(j.aiid naturally there averaged from 150 io '» • af(er )ear. h> have been *'Uof ,he work is the juvenile addition l<> this par court over jurisdiction* H,e . after year. (,bate judge has h.lVe increased year .|)e number being |5I), including cases “During hcr incumbency. Judge Eggleston has made an enviable record (since] none of her decisions have ever been reversed by a higher court. At the present term of court, one case grow ing out of the complicated affairs of the Nashville Slate Bank, is apt to be appealed from her decision largely as a test case “Representatives from the state tax department also have paid her many compliments concerning the figuring of inheritance taxes. I here is but one other probate judge in the state who understands computing and does compute ihe inheritance taxes. This might seem like an easy job to the uninitiated, but it is in reality one of the most complex of mathematical and judicial problems. “Our probate judges also are commissioned to perform marriages, and Judge Eggleston has officiated at 150 such ceremonies during the past 13 years. b “According to Judge Eggleston, the Work of the probate court, including the juvenile division, can bc done by any judicially minded woman who possesses sympathy and understanding, just as well as bv a man In many cases, a woman’s attitude toward tho^ in sorrow, .is are so many who come to thK court, would bc more kindly and more understanding than would a man’s, thereby inspiring confidence and hum in those wfio are in trouble, whether parent, child or relative. “Judge Eggleston’s splendid success is due to her wide knowledge of general ;UHI and probate law, het close application to her work. STATE OF MICHIGAN C0UNTY0F BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS TRUST In the matter o! The Robert McNees trust, dated October 28. 2019. > TO ALL CREDITORS^ NOTICE TO CJ^DlHAiS: The decedent, Robert McNees. who Fred at t?445 Oakwood Shores. Wayland. Michigan 49348, bed cn January 9. 2020, leaving a certain trust under the name o? ROBRT MCNEES TRUST. DATED OCTOBER 28. 2019, wherein the decedent was the Settlor and Wanda Vandefifer was named as Successot Trustee serving at the time of or as a result of the decedent's death. Creditors of the decedent and of the trust are notified that all claims against the deccdant or against the trust will be forever barred unless presented to Wanda Vandefifer, the named Successor Trustee, at Tripp & Tagg. Attorney's at Law, 202 South Broadway, Hastings, Michigan 49053 wittvn 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date January 23, 2020 Nathan E. Tagg (P68994) 202 South Broadway Hastings, Ml 49058 269-948-2900 Wanda Vandefifer 12750 BownesMill Road Wayland. Ml 49348 269-204-8420 136693 The Haebnas Banner — Thursday. February b. 2020 — P. y: --------------- ----------------------- - --------------- "Naturally endowed with a judicial mind, Judge Eggleston has mastered the probate laws, as well as much of the general laws, of this state and is considered an authority on questions pertaining to the duties of this office." two shared some similarities. Judge Eggleston spent her childhood years in Assyria, and Clement in Prairieville Township, both attending country schools before moving into town - Nashville and Hastings, respectively. Both first worked as school teachers and later served as probate clerks. Anil finally, they both were probate judges, Eggleston for 13 years and Clement for 14. Judge Eggleston likely was available to advise and assist Judge Clement in his early years on the bench. She remained in the city until her death May 14, 1948. If tire property ‘ r. “• ferec’osure sale under Chapter 32 of dic-‘h;re Act of 1961. pursuant to MCI %.onv ‘-’e borrower will be held responsible to sateo? P,cPerty at the mortgage fored 0^ ‘'p,,-’’,0 ’he mortgage holder for damagmg 1 :e ' y during tne redemption Attention homeo*1? you are a military service member on f^n *j:‘o4 of active duty has conc'udfld “ays ago. or If you have betn ordered p P’-mse contact tho attorney for ।Jtvd the telephone a debt cnpn°.,lc'J’ Date at notice J3 Trott Law, P-C 3l440Ncrtnw u Su.h, *.. ”lb FEBRUARY 6, 2020 CITY OF HASTINGS 201 EAST STATE STREET HASTINGS. Ml 49058 269.945.2468 TO ALL INTERESTED AGENCIES, GROUPS AND PERSONS: On or about February 24, 2020, the City of Hastings will request the Michigan Strategic Fund to release Federal funds under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 (P.L 93-383) for the following project: DOWNTOWN RENTAL REHAB The City of Hastings’ Rental Rehab Program (Grant # MSC-219005-RR) proposes to use $320,000 of Community Development Block Grant funds (CDBG) for downtown rehab of an existing building at 118 East Court Street in Hastings. The building being rehabbed is located on Court Street, west of North Michigan Avenue and East of South Jefferson. The project, known as 118 East Court Street Apartments, shall construct five, new first-floor apartments with four benefitting (at least 51 %) low to mod­ erate income residents (80% area median income for Barry County). Tbe owner is required to contribute at least 25% of total project costs toward the development. Zero persons will be displaced as a result of the proj­ ect. The funding to the owner will be a grant, with one-year affordability requirements for four apartments. ' Finding of No Significant Impact The City of Hastings has determined that the project will have no significant impact on the human environment and an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required. The Environmental Assessment of the project area revealed no serious environmental adverse impacts for: Flood Plain, Noise, Wetlands, Wild and Scenic Rivers, Thermal Explosive areas, Toxic Sites, Environmental Justice, Farmland Protection, Air Quality, Coastal Zone Management, Airport Runway Clear Zones, Excessive Noise, Asbestos and Lead Studies, and State Historical Preservation Office review for applicable historical require­ ments for each building prior to rehabilitation. 1407563 (01-23X02* t3‘ Public Comments on Finding All interested agencies, groups, and persons disagreeing with this decision are invited to submit written comments for consideration by the City of Hastings to the City Manager’s Office on or before February 21, 2020. All such comments so received will be considered, and the City of Hastings will not request the release of federal funds or take any administrative action on the proposed project prior to the date specified in the preceding sentence. Release of Funds The City of Hastings will undertake a portion of the project described above with Community Development Block Grant funds from the Michigan Strategic Fund under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974. The City of Hastings is certifying to the Michigan Strategic Fund that the City of Hastings and David J. Tossava in his official capacity as Mayor consent to accept the jurisdiction of the federal courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to environmental reviews, decision-making, and action; and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. The legal effect of the certification is that upon its approval the City of Hastings may use the Block Grant funds and the Michigan Strategic Fund will have satisfied its responsibilities under the National Environmental 1 ; | Policy Act of 1969. Objections to Michigan Strategic Fund Release of Funds MSF will accept objections to the release of funds and certification for a | period of fifteen days following the anticipated submission date or its actu- ? al receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are based on one of the following: (a) *he certification was not executed by the Certifying Offi- I cer* (b) the City of Hastings has omitted a step of failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58; (c) the grant recipient has committed funds or incurred costs not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by MSF; or (d) another Fed­ eral agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmen­ tal quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed to Collaborative Community Development. MEDC, 300 N Washington Square, Lansing. Ml 48913, 517-420-5182. Potential objectors should contact MEDC to verify the actual last day of the objection period. Jerry Czarnecki 138095 } Additional project information is contained in the Environmental Review Record (ERR) on file at the address above which may be examined or cop­ ied weekdays, 8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jane Saurman, City Clerk Farmington H' ’• (248)642 Sources: Hastings Banner; “Outstandim Women of Barry County.” 1976:familysearch ors>; findatiraie com: “1912 History oj Barry Counts :" and the late Gordon Mitchell. COMBINED NOTICE NOTICE TO PUBLIC OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT AND NOTICE TO PUBLIC OF REQUEST FOR RELEASE OF FUNDS Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage wil| b'e f0reci0sed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auct.-on safe to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of ho'ding the circuit court m Barry County, starling promptly at 1:00 PM, on February 20. 2020. ThG amount duo on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Piacing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register Of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of whjch cha,ge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagor^); j3C0b gias, a married man Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, me, Qu mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender s successors and/or assigns Foreclosing Ass-gnee ;f anyJ. ^First Bank Date of Mortgage: August 26,2015 Date of Mortgage H'-'CO’d.ng; September 1. 2015 Amount claimed dut\°n date of notice; $75,931.67 Description of the -engaged premises: Situated in Wage of Fteepon. Many County. Michioan, and described as-JLcJg *>. u °ck 10 of MAp QF JHE VILLAGE OF FBEE,P,%. *CCOrd ng to the plat thereof recorded in Doer i o page 22 of Bamy County Records. Common street a- -e.»s w anyJ. 12(J Che Freeport, Ml 493?^ The redemption hall be u months from th« datrj of such sa-e. v determined abandoned In accordance with k v 4241 Of) j, sut>;eCf feai property is used 1* * »urai purposes as defined byMCL600.3240J6 . Ihe May 20. 1948. Banner reported that she had been ili for about a week before dying of a cerebral hemorrhage. She was 74. The article announcing her death al- i mentioned another first: “Floyd Starr, of Starr Commonwealth, who attended MrEggleston’s funeral, said Judge Eggleston w: s the first probate judge to visit hi-* Ixiy* commonwealth.’’ Perhaps she wasn’t thc first to do so, but the judge arranged a special appeal to be made after her death. “As one of her request, friends refrained from sending flowers for Ou funeral, and several made contributions 10 worthy cause■>, such as lhe Red Cross- in memory of her.” She was survived by her husband. Ralph', daughters Miss Eva Hecox and Ethelyn Buholtz; step-daughter Ethel Schultz, (btfe-f Linington); stepsons Henry- and Vincetu Eggleston; nine grandchildren and four grbMgrandchildren. She is buried at Riverside Cemetery in Hastings. Ralph, her second husband, die*I Jan. 20.1954, al age 85. He is buried at Fidler Cemetery in Carlton Township. �Pago 5Q —TNnsaay. February 6. 2020 — The Hastes Ba. nu - HHS Winterfest ‘kicks out cancer By correctlTans^^^ During Friday's assembly, members of lhe student council, including Shelby Lindquist, go into lhe bleachers to collect spare change for a fellow student. questions, the HHS Quiz bowl team raised another 8150. Pidured are (from Vandcnburg. Shelby Lindquist- Abby Waller- Julia McLean, Patrick Mallory, Alex Steward. Kearan Tolles ana AT LEFT: Teacher Daniel Vaulk is one of the "winners' of the pie contest, and I.uke Froncheck Staff Writer Ev cry y ear. Hastings High School .students dedicate Winterfest activities toward a good cause, and this year was no different. Freshman Keegan Portemont. along with being new to Hastings, has Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Hastings senior Hannah Johnson said Winterfest allowed the student body lo get to know Portemont and learn more* about the type of cancer he is battling. 'Hie freshman is an avid bull rider who doesn’t let his cancer get in lhe way. During lhe Winterfest week, students Jacob Elliot Addison. 26. of Delton, was convicted of unlawfully driving an automo­ bile Sept. 14, 2018, in Barry’ Township. He was sentenced by Judge Michael Schipper to 180 days in jail, with credit for 86 days served. He was ordered to pay $7,210 in fines and costs, which included restitution totaling $6,752. and placed on probation for 24 months, which includes a probation fee of John William Coe. 40. of Hastings, was convicted of failure to pay child support and .sentenced by Judge Schipper to 120 days in jail, with credit for 98 days served. He was ordered lo pay $398 in fines and costs and sene 60 months of probation, with oversight fees of $600. Barry Keith Falor. 58. of Delton, was convicted of two counts of possession of child sexually abusive material from November 2018 lo February 2019 in Barry Township. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to sene 180 days in jail, with credit for 110 days served. Falor was placed on probation for 60 months, u ith an oversight fee of $600. and ordered to pay $1,126 in fines and costs. Five charges of child sexually abusive activity, alleging thc production, making, copying, reproducing or financing the material, using a computer to commit a crime, and distributing or promot­ ing child sexually abusive material, were dis­ missed. Lynn Matthew Hall, 39. ol Battle Creek, was convicted of possessing a dangerous weapon, brass knuckles. Oct. 16, 2018. in Barry Township. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper lo 117 days in jail, with credit for 117 days m rved............ ‘ Hall was ordered to pay $9‘)K in fine . and costs, and placed on proba(ion for 18 months, which includes $180 in Hayden Montcgomcrv Holland. 21, ol Wayland, was convicted of fourth-degree fleeing and eluding a police officer Sept. 28, 2019. in Rutland Charter Township. He also was found to be a habitual offender by Judge Schipper. who sentenced him to 180 days in jail, with credit for 51 days served. Holland wav ordered to pay .$458 in tines and costs. C harges of reckless driving and unlawful use of a license plate/registration and title were dropped. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads raised money for Keegan and his family through different fundraisers, including T-shirt sales. Teachers took part. too. having jars assigned to them. Whoever had thc jar with the most money got a w hipped-cream pic in the face during Friday’s assembly. Some fundraisers occurred during thc assembly. Two students shot basketballs in an effort to raise an extra $150 while the quiz bowl team raised another $150 by answering trivia questions. Student council members also went into the stands lo collect spare change. The among of collected donations was not available at press time, but was in the thousands of dollars. Todd Jeffrey Ketchum. 49. of Plainwell, was convicted of aggravated domestic vio­ lence June 15.2019. in Prairieville Township. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to 60 days in jail. Ketchum was ordered to pay $1,058 in fines and costs and serve 24 months of probation, with oversight fees of $240. Jail time is to bc served on weekends. No contact with the v ictim will be allowed except through talkingparents.com. The batterer intervention program is required. r\ count of assault with intent to do great bodily harm less than mur­ der and a count of domestic violence were dismissed. Anne Marie Perez-Fifer. 54, ot Hastings, was convicted of operating a vehicle while intoxicated as a third-time offender. She was sentenced by Judge Schipper to 30 days in jail, with credit for two days served. She was ordered to pay $398 in fines and costs, and was placed on 24 months of probation, with oversight fees of $240. Perez-Pifer was ordered to successfully complete the Barry County Sobriety Court and serve the remain­ der of her jail time on weekends Charles Joseph Potter.27.of Rock Island, Tenn., w as convicted of second-degree crimi­ nal sexual conduct, having sexual contact with a person under the age of 13 May 31. 2019. in Hastings Township. He was sen­ tenced by Judge Schipper to ISO days in jail, with credit for 119 days served. Potter was placed on 60 months of probation, with over­ sight fees of $600 and ordered to pay .$1 J)58 in fines and costs. Timothy William Slube. 42. of Hastings, was convicted of two counts of delivery/man­ ufacture of a controlled substance, metham­ phetamine. Slube was one of eight people charged after a months-long drug trafficking investigation in the distribution of crystal methamphetamine in Hastings. He was sen­ tenced by Judge Schipper to concurrent sen­ tences of 24 to 240 months in prison on each count, with credit for two days served. He was ordered to pay $1,066 in lines and costs Thc judge had no objection to luxit camp in this case. A third charge ol dclivcry/manufacture of methamphetamine as a second-time olfender was dismissed Marc West Wright. 44, of Hastings, was convicted ol thiee counts of delivery/manu failure ol a controlled substance, metham­ phetamine. March 26. April 9 and April 11, 2019. in Hastings. Wright was one of eight people charged after a months-long drug traf­ ficking investigation in lhe distribution of crystal methamphetamine in Hastings. He sentenced by Judge Schipper to concunvnt terms ol 60 to 240 months in prison on each count, with credit tor two days sen ed. Wright was ordered lo pay $1,134 in lines and costs, including $130 to the victim. A fourth charge of delivery/manufacture of a controlled sub stance, methamphetamine, was dismissed. received a whipped-cream pie to the face during the assembly. Mounties beat out Saxon bowling teams in Hastings The Jackson Northwest varsity bowling teams both picked up Interstate-8 Athletic Conference victories at Hastings Bowl Tuesday, besting the Saxon boys and girls. I'he Mounties scored a 24-6 win in the bat­ tle of the varsity boys’ teams. Cameron Eaton had a pair of big games to score points for the Saxon team, rolling a 236 and a 199. Hastings also got a solid 211 from John Hinkle and a 198 from Gage Richmond during their head-to-head match-ups with the Mounties. I'he Saxon boys did take one of the two Baker games on the day. combining to roll a 181. ‘ I'he Hastings girls fought hard as well in a losing effort, falling 19-11 io lhe Mounties. The Saxon girls won one of lhe two regular games and one of the two Baker games, roll* ing a 788 in (he regular match-play contest and a 186 in (heir winning Baker contest. Daisy Kerby picked up two points for lhe Saxon team with games of 153 and 158. and Ashland Hoyt rolled an outstanding 256 to pick up a point for her team as well. are back The Hasting bowlers ‘ ‘ * ai it al Hastings Bowl this afternoon, taking on Jackson Lumen Christi, and then wifi step outside of lhe Inierstale-8 Athletic Conference for a dual with Plainwell in Hastings next Monday (Feb. 10). 001 Crootedj, Cfowsrcfefe fetes Luke Fronchcck drive lhe cost up." EGLE staff is currently planning a public Staff Writer Barry County Drain Commissioner Jim meeting regarding work on Cloverdale and Dull knew cold weather would come Long lakes. Dull said they expect it lo be al least six weeks before any meetings would be eventually and, with il. ice. Under normal circumstances, ice wouldn’t conducted. A meeting has been scheduled regarding create a big problem for lake residents. In fact, they might be looking forward lo ice lhe Pine Lake project, beginning at 6 p.m March 3. The public is welcome to attend the fishing. Bui with water levels high countywide, gathering in the Delton Kellogg Middle School gymnasium for an update on the circumstances are noi normal. Under a permit from lhe Michigan project. Officials expected at that meeting Department of Environment, Great Lakes and include Allegan County Drain Commissioner Energy, pumping of Crooked and Cloverdale Denise Medemar. Dull, Deputy Barry County lakes can only occur when lhe lakes arc less Drain Commissioner Tammy Hayes, and that 25 percent covered in ice and within representatives from LRE engineering firm. Dull said the meeting was delayed because certain lake level parameters. “Ice was on. and we saw fishermen, so Brian [Cenci| said ‘Shut down.’” Dull said, referring lo one of the lead engineers on the Walson Drain project. “The waler is coming up. but we just can’t pump.” When lhe ice melts, (he pumps are ready to go. Dull added. However, lake residents have reason to hope. Dull said, if EGLE staff approves an 'l he snow was faster than it had been in lhe infrastructure permit for Cloverdale and Long previous Wednesday as lhe Southwest lakes, they would be able io begin pumping Michigan Ski Conference got together again north to Fall C reek in early summer. at Bittersweet. Tuesday, ihe Barry County commissioners The Caledonia girls’ team slid by Portage approved Dull’s request lo retain a licensed by two points for the top spot Wednesday engmeer to conduct a preliminary study of 56-58. with the Caledonia girls scoring 23 ( loverdalc. Wilkinson, J^pes and Mud lakes points in the slalom and the Portage girls scor­ at a cost of S2.5CX). ’ ing 23 in the GS. Ihe 1K,a, d also approve simile action for “This season, our girls team has really a preliminary study on U)ni! Uke for$25(X). relied on our seniors lo lead the way and A third resolution, u| Approved by thc tonight my juniors and sophomores stepped boaid. will allow Dull |O retain a licensed up to really help our leant with some great engineer to conduct a .liminary of finishes.” Caledonia head coach Duane IWani and Mud c(bl „f S5XXM). Petrosky said. “Normally it you have your lhe top priorities .4 lhe fir‘’1 tilth or sixth flight skiers score, you do not resolutions. Dull sl ...e of tl'wtll"L’ win a meet but everyone on our team is skiing cont ents. These studie. the r>'» “ fast so vve sunive if one of our lop racers has Impart process to d^||>ine actual lake a tough run. This group of girls has a strong desire to win and tonight they proved once Whenit comes to Co,. the Cloverdale and again that they are one of lhe best team’s in lain/ Lake iinpmven,..’'■ ,sH1|l be shared lhe area.” l’> residents of t|11)sc ,|,e Michigan Mattawan was third in lhe day’s girls’ Department ot h-...fV 0 ‘.,lK . t|K Wahou standings with 81 points, ahead of the Trojan Drain District. Bee n solution Ski team 123 and Kalamazoo United 137. Crooked T -t to Lucy VanDemark led the Trojan ski team (he residents of P10'11’, । lakes, with a runner-up score in the GS. combining “,e> -heir runs of 28.09 seconds and 27.80. She was also IMnum oith,. 18th in the slalom Madison Nagel was 11 th , 1,1 ,he meaniim,. > ,„| die '•e'e|1"',’n in lhe GS and 12ih in the slalom lot the basin near Delton R„. 1,11 1able to take trojans. Lydia Bacon placed 17ih in the sla­ 1,1 •hues more %es originally lom and I6lh in the GS. Alex Howard was lhe expected. ‘’’er llu«n • team’s fourth scorer in Ixilh events, placing in thc slalom and 24th in lhe GS. .....23rd ..................... lhe Caledonia girls' team was lead by 1)1,11 'airl he l^’1' lhe south Alana Black (first slalom). Fmmalue Hamp yarding in»i|ir<njf ' d-'‘ . (|Ul is the (fourth GS). Barbie DeGood (fourth slalom. 15th GS). Evie Schlett (sixth GS A icmh “ lake. 11 f©r o©w they wanted to complete surveying of lhe project. The first meeting was in thc summer of 2019. “There's not much sense going into a meeting and not having anything to report.” Dull said. LRE engineers have plotted a course to take thc waler to the Grayiop drain in Allegan County . 'Hie project cost is estimated to be roughly .$3 million. Dull said he has seven petitions, which he said he and his team are “very actively” working on. There also are two more board of determination meetings coming up this week: one Friday and lhe other Saturday, which would bring lhe number ot active petitions io nine. Trojan Ski team settles into fourth place at Bittersweet slalom) and Emily Dean (eighth slalom, eighth GS). Black’s first slalom run of 37.44 seconds had her in second place in the event, but then she busted out with a time of 36.64 lo nudge past Mattawan’s Lilly Ro>s who had a 37.21 second run her first lime down the hill, Portage’s Abigail I idJel’i vv.*., as second in the girls’ slalom, racing lo a time of ’ o! 36.33 on fter second run alter a 37.91 the l r ‘ ' ■ it st lime down Abigail Liddell from P Milage won the GS compeluion with limes ol 28.(17 u Mattawan had a great slalom evening to pull in front of the Caledonia boys 48-50 in the day's final tally. Portage was third with 124 points, ahead oi Kalamazixr United 15-s and South Haven 159. “Mattawan’s boys really skied well tonight, they beat us by two points,” Petrosky >md ”My boys skied well enough io keep the race close, but w e had loo many mistakes in slalom io win tonight. Giant slalom has been our team's strength this sc. gieat job, which kept Ilk Mattawan had lhe 2-3 race close ___ _ luiu’zhl.' way in the slalom Wednesday, with the top three Caledonia boys pl.a inr 5 6-7 in the nice. Kalamazoo United's Jaxson Tcrranulla1 lol I man w as the boys’ slalom champ Wednesday with runs ol 32.97 seconds 4nd ' 93 l aledonia’s Kevgen Beemet had *h‘iastest single nm m the event, opening "ilb •• lime of 30 77. but had to .reltlu foi a lime of 4123 in his second nm. lhe conference was scheduled io gel together again last night at Bittersweet. �-B I Th0 Hartings Banner-- Thursday. February 6. 2020 - Page H Pr P°Sed ,egislatlon would dr0P health, gym requirements iSS’t'-'". . Bridge Magazine A >m>e >e.)mrenKm fl,;,, hi,.h sc||w| HU dasses „> |tel|lh !11R| 'A Rep,>blie„„.vpo„M,rellpai.k.|gclhat, t.ns lush >chool vtaifu;,,,,,,. requirements >n„ki„p Algebra „ optional alM, mclmle, op,.(.tlb |^, and g) m State Sen. Jon IJ,.mste.nl. R-Vovavpo. the ... tetpnrwl lor Sra<h,.llio„ a||„„s better prepare students who aren't c0 |.,fe Ixrund by often,,g more flexibility „ H n°7 •’ ‘'ook,e..-„,re,. one-stze fit " all approach to education. But health adv<xares ii,.„ . . health and physical |j|nc^ (<) iniivn s a feneration of students who suffers iron, higher rates of ;,nxivly. sukidc JapresMor,. Michigan also has onc of haghcM rate, ot childhood obesity .uu| has seen a spike in sexually transmitted diseases which advocates >ay suggests that more studenb. should take these courses, not fewer \ou lookjit businesses, and they say they strugg e to tmd young people who can deal with stress and son through communications ix>uus Amy Wasstnann. past president ol the Mrchigan Seluvol Health Cixudinaton.’ Association, which promotes research-based approaches to health, told Bridge Magazine. “How can we eliminate those "courses where they leant and practice the skills to be in their work ... and personal "■"lleix. Hiimstead said in a statement At a Senate Iidiicalion and Career Readiness C.nttmtttee in November. Bunistva.1 ...1,1 committee mcmbeis he learned the skills Ikneeded to build his business. Bunnlcttd Construction. JU lhc Newaygo County Career lech Educational Center Buildine Trades Program. “ But now “Lansing politicians and bureauuats have decided that all children must tit into the same mold.” he told the committee, adding that lumsiug laws take away local con trol of education and “micromanage” dis tricts. “Michigan does not trust our teachers, prin­ cipals and superintendents to use their knowl­ edge and expertise to teach our children," he said. Hie Michigan Education Association, the state’s largest teachers’ union, supports Bumstead’s proposal overall, but said it has concerns about thc bills’ details, including stripping health and physical education from thc requirements, said ME/X spokesman Doug Pratt. T he Michigan Merit Curriculum, passed in 2006. raised thc academic rigor of what wdrtui "Kared frnm ,c c'1’* J ausc ti the rigid b"^1' ' 3“-«'<l>ng io •'kthe Nil-i bdks m<w,» • fo""''"'eed-'l'-e,n:. direction. doin« ^"versatii>» "'“cruul 1’r.ut, Jij'n'l1] a"d loreiF" '“"i?1 ncic‘1 l'l,llct ’W n f< n I he Mb A -an bills in ,7’n for ™rlicr -VI Ol R^. .Uiilent. to t “ M11,e "<>•'« thru would lite,J I Mali-tics ”r || -,udcnls, • ‘■’•'‘I of Ahrcbra II •1IU!' „Safe,.. ''V 30 hourof’ Oce,ip:"'l’fo)S|[A) ,ll:allh. Adniini'io"10" | hat u,^ ’. Ins>ead ot physical edueaf^- f. ir>/^••b. I package, sponsored by ooger * ||.,. 5 ’ R'North Branch. R«P-J Rep. R/'’nion a Town-hip. R-Matawan. Griffin. bcfnrx. (|K. lu]| House. In a party-line vote, senators in December passed the Butn.Meiid bills to lhe full Senate •Sen. Dayna Polehanki, of Livonia, a Democrat and former teacher said she is wary of relaxing Michigan s curriculum require­ ments. She acknowledged some educators have told hcr they are not opposed to elimi­ nating lhe Algebra II requirement. But she said that might lead to an overall drop m state standardized scores which, in turn, would send lawmakers back to tinker vsith the curriculum requirements once again. “It’s a vicious cycle.” she said. The Education Trusi-Midwcvt. a Michigan education reform group, has argued that Algebra 11 and thc other such courses are essential for students to succeed after high school. Republican efforts, year after year, to get rid of lhe Algebra II and other course requirements chip aw ay at the state’s attempts to improve student achievement, efforts that have made Michigan “a national leader for ensuring (hat students are prepared for suc­ cess in postsecondary education.” it said in testimony opposing Bumstead’s bills. “How can we hold students, educators and schools accountable for learning content. NOTICE OF REGISTRATION^ THE ELECTION TO BE HELO ON TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 2020 BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN when wc do not actually require it tn be taught 1 he EducationTrust Midwc4 irked • The future of sex education Kelly Steer, advocacy director al lhe Lansingb.Kcd Michigan Organization on Adolescent Sexual Health, which raises awareness about sexual health among youth, said she worried that lhe attention on Algebra II ha, allowed the possible lo*** ol health and other requirements to go relatively unnoticed by lawmakers. “ft’s become a Christmas tree bill m because (proponent) want flexibility, but it s almost like they’re sneaking in these other changes,** she said. Taryn Gal. executive director at the adoles­ cent sexual health group, said the rising num­ ber of students with SIDs and engaging tn unprotected sex makes this an inopportune time for lhe state to signal retreat on sexual health. “There arc already so many barriers lo hav­ ing sex education in the schools “ she said. Requiring a health curriculum tor gradua­ tion forces schools to hire teachers “passion­ ate and trained" to help students sort through difficult topics. Gal said. •PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the fo"owing proposals win appear or. REPUBLICAN P/IRTY PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY CANDIDATES DEMOCRATIC PARTY PRESIDENTIAL PR MAR/ CANDIDATES BARRY 911 MILLAGE PROPOSAL MILLAGE RENEWAL PROPOSITION .9672 MILL FOR OPERATION OF COUNTY-WIDE E-911 EMERGENCY ANSWERING AND DISPATCH SYSTEM Ii\c l he age of anxiety I he state ot Michigan now requires high school students to complete one credit hour “in subject matter that includes both health and physical education” to graduate from high sclktol. meaning students generally must take a hall credit, or a semester, of each. There are exceptions; Students, lor instance, can fulfill their phys-cd credit by playing on a sports team. lhe health course is intended to arm students with how to find accurate information about their bodies so they can make safe choi Topics range from mental health to opioids to navigatin : relationship', including sexual relationships, z\s Bridge has reported, local distric ts are no! required to tench sex education: : ind among those that do, some limit discussion an abstinence-only approach while others provide information on xariot forms of contraception. Public health studies suggest uch topics arc finding a read} audience in high school classnuims According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly I in 3 teens has an anx­ iety disorder, with the disorder deemed clini­ cally “severe” in K percent of cases. Teens report high rates of anxiety , depres­ sion and suicidal thoughts, and it’s health and physical education instructors that they often turn lo. said Wusstnann. of the MiSHCA. A recent Bridge analysis of health data revealed th?.: Michigan adolescents and teens arc committing suicide at nearly twice the rate of just over a decade ago. 1-rom 2015 to 2017. Michigan students polled reported rising rales of sadness and hopelessness (31.7 percent in 2015 versus 37.3 in 2017): suicidal thoughts (17.3 percent versus 21.3 percent), and a slight rise in sui­ cide attempts (9.2 percent versus 9.4 percent), according to lhe Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance Sy stem, w hich the U.S. (.enters for Disease Control and Prevention uses to monitor health-related behaviors that contrib­ ute to the leading causes ot death and disabil­ ity. That survey also noted an uptick in Michigan students who described themselves as slightly or very ovenveight, sexually active, and having sex w ithout a condom. In addition to eliminating health and phys­ ical education as graduation requirements, the Republican bills would peel back the require­ ment tor students to take math up to Algebra II (Students would still be required to take four credit hour of math, including Algebra I and geometry. to graduate J The Bmnslcad bills also "imld make world history. U S. historv ami economic: jptional rather lh:m required, and would lilt requirenrenrs lo take one credit hour of visual, per­ forming. or applied arts and at east two credits of foreign language. As wnh Algebra II. credits tor these courses instead could Ik used to fulfill elective credit hours. Current graduation requirements under lit Michigan Mern CmTicidmn can ’s ' dent cmativirv and exploratron an d « always allow students to be prepared lor I K. after high school ifUm-' I’"’"'ll"1,01 ,"U“du GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Bam«- Call 269-945-9554 for more information Snail the previously voted increase in the limitation on general ad vaicrem taxes within Barry County, as established by Article IX. Section 6 of the Michigan Constitution, be renewed and levied at a total of up to 0.9672 mill (S.9672'cr each SI .000 ot taxab'e value) upon a'! taxab’e real and personal property within Barry County for a pened o’ five <5) years, 2020 through 2024, both inclusive, subject to reductions as prov:ded by law? PRESIDENTIAL. PRIMARY TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS: The Barry County Townships of Assyria. Baltimore, Barry, Carlton, Castleton. Hastings Charter, Hope, Irving, Johnstown. Maple Grove, Orangeville. Prairieville. Rutland Charter. Thornapple. Woodland. Yankee Springs, and City C>^rr^'th9 Offico of thG aPPr°priate County Clerk: a be etary Of state branch office, or other designated state agency Registration forms can be obtained at of Hastings. COUNTY OF BARRY STATE OF MICHIGAN PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that any qualified elector of the above named jurisdictions who is not already registered, may register to vote at the office of the Township or Municipality and mailed to the Township or City Clerk- voters who are already registered may update their registration at^yy/y^oxprjis^Sj^cprn. II approved, it is estimated that the levy ot 9672 mill will provide revenue of $2,171.206 of which $2 134.296 w.h be disbursed by Barry County to lhe Barry County Central O.spatch Authority and $36,910 wiil be d sbursed to the Hastings DDA and LFDA and Village of Middleville DDA The estimated $36,910 is levied in a predefined area of the City of Hastings and Village of Middleville, only. The last day to register in any manner other than in­ person with the local clerk is Monday. February 21.2020. It is estimated that a property in Barry County with a taxable value of 550.090 vni? be assessed $43 36 in the first calendar year cf the levy PenolopeYpma Baltimore Township . By Appt • 8094 Tasker Road ■ Bellevue. Ml 49021 Hours on Saturday March 7, 2020 9 00 am - 5 00 pm , i Hours on Tuesday, March 1 10,2020 9.00 am - 5:00 pm 7 00 am - 8 00 pm ' 8 00 am-4:00 pm 7 00 am-8 00 pm 8 00 am - 4:C0 pm 7 00 am - 8.00 pm Tuesday 9 am- 1 pm Wednesday 9 am - 5 pm Amanda Brown Carlton Township 85 Welcome Road Hastings. Ml 49058 Wednesdays - 10 am - noon Marcia Scramlin Castleton Township 915 Reed Street PO Box i Wednesday 1pm-4:30 pm 679. Nashville. Ml 49073 8 00 am-4.00 pm . 7 00 am -8 00 pm An-ta Mennell ' Hastings Charter ! Township 685 River Road Hastings, Ml 49058 Tuesdays 9 am - noon & 1 - 4 pm 9.00 am-5 00 pm 7:00 am-8 00 pm ■ Deborah Jackson ' Hope Township 5463 S. M-43 Hwy. Hastings Ml 49058 Wednesdays 9 am-noon & 1:15-300 pm; Thursday^ Fnday 1 pm - 3 pm 8 00 am - 4 00 pm 7 00 am - 8.00 pm Sharon Olson Irving Township 3425 Wmg Road Hastings, Ml 49058 Monday & Wednesday 9 am - noon 8 00 am -4 00 pm ' 7 00 am - 8.00 pm Monday & Wednesday 8 am -4 pm or by Appt 8 00 am - 4:00 pm 7.00 am-8.00 pm By Appt Only 8 00 am -4 00 pm 7;00 am-8:00 pm Shen Babcock Johnstown Twp ' 13541 S M-37 Holly Carpenter Map'e Grove Twp. 721 Durkee Street Nashville. Ml 49073 r-—— - Melody Risner Orangeville Twp. 7350 Lindsey Road ; Plainwell. Ml 49080 Mon - Wed. - Fnday 9 30 am - 1:30 pm 9 00 am - 5 pm Rod Gcebe! ; Prairieville Twp. 1015 S Norris Road : Delton, Ml 49046 Mon - Thursday 9 am - 5 pm 8.00 am-4 pm 1 Robin Hawthorne Rutland Twp 2461 Heath Road ■ Hastings. Ml 49058 i Cindy Willshire ! Thomapple Twp. Battle Creek. Ml 49017 Notice is hereby given that a Pubhc Accuracy Test for thc March to, 2020 election will be corducted by the c-'erks of the named townships on the voting equipment pursuant to MCL 163.793 at the addresses noted on the to’towng dates: February 22,2020 at 11:00 am at ASSYRIA TOWNSHIP HALL 8094 Tasker Road, Bellevue, Michigan 49021 Townships participating in the February 22,2020 date: Assyria Township ' February 10,2020 at 4:30 pm at BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP HALL 3100 East Dowling Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Townships participating in (he February 10.2020 date: Baltimore Township February 18,2020 at 1 (H)0 am at BARRY TOWNSHIP HALL 155 L Orchard Street Delton, Michigan 49046 Townships participating in the February 18.2020 date: Barry Township ( February 25,2020 @ 9:00 am at CARLTON TOWNSHIP HALL 85 Welcome Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Townships participating in the February 25.2020 date: Cartton Townsh.p ! 200 E. Main Street Middleville. Ml 49333 Monday - Thursday 9 am - 3 pm i. - - —— .. ■— 1 Monday - Thursday 9 am-4 pm February 20,2020 at 1:00 pm at HOPE TOWNSHIP HALL 5463 S. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, Michigan 49058 Townships participating in the February 20.2020 date Hope Township -------- ----------- — February 19,2020 Q 10:00 am at IRVING TOWNSHIP HALL 3425 Wing Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Townships participating in the February 19,2020 date Irving Township 7 00 am - 8 00 pm ________ i 8:00 am-4 pm ■ 7 00 am - 8:00 pm 7.00 am - 3 pm ! 7:00 am - 8:00 pm Fohnrarv 19 2020 Q 10:00 am at JOHNSTOWN TOWNSHIP HALL 13641* S. M-37 Hwy., Battle Creek, Michigan 49017 Townsh ps participating in the February 19.2020 dote: Johnstown Township —j I :'■ Tuesday 5pm - 7 pm : Saturday 9am-11 arn _ 8 00 am -4 pm Janice C. Lippert Bri99sRoad . Yankee Springs Twp . Middleville. Ml 49333 ; Mon - Thurs - 9 am-3 pm 8:00 am - 4:00 pm ' 201 East State Street , Hastings. Ml 49058 7.00 am -8 00 pm _ 7 00 am-8:00 pm ■ 7 00 am - 8;00 pm I j Carlton Township Amanda Brown Township Clerk Hope Township Deborah Jackson Township Clerk Maple Grove Township Holly Carpenter Township Clerk Rutland Charter Township Robin Hawthorne Township Clerk Yankee Spring Township Janice Lippert Township Clerk : Monday - Friday ; 8 am - 5 pm i 7 00 a.m. to 3 00 pm ' 7:00 am - 8 00 pm Baltimore Township Penelope Ypma Township Clerk Barry Township Deb Knight Township Clerk Casleton Township Marcia Scramlin Township Clerk Hastings Charlter Township Anita Mennell Township Clerk Irving Township Sharon Olson Township Clerk Johnstown Township Sheri Babcock Township Clerk Orangeville Township Melody Risner •ownship Clerk Prairieville Township Bod Goebel Township Clerk Thornappio Township C'ndy Willshre Township Clerk Woodland Township Nancy Stanton Township Clerk City of Hastings City Clerk February 17,2020 © 10.00 am at ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP HALL 7350 Lindsey Road, Plainwell, Michigan 49080 Towns!) ps participating tn the February 17.2020 dale: Orangeville Townsh p Fpbruarv 20.2020 @ 11:00 am at PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP HALL 10115 S. Norris Road, Delton, Michigan 49048 Townships participating in the February 20.2020 date- Pra-nevile Townsbp 1 Friday 9 am - noon OTbeEhLaVorLMEn' BARRY C0UNTY clerk Assyria Township Arinotte Terry Township Clerk February 12,2020 at 2:00 pm at CASTLETON TOWNSHIP HALL 915 Reed Street P0 Box 679, Nashville, Michigan 49073 Townships participating m the Fetmry12 2020 date- Castleton & Maple Grove Townships February 26,2020 at 10.00 am at HASTINGS CHARTER TOWNSHIP HALL 885 River Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Townships participating in the February 26.2020 date: Hastings Charter Township f Nancy Stanton 155 S Main PO Box 98 ’ Woodland Township • Woodland. Ml 49997 ■ Jane Saunnan : City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC ACCURACY TEST ---------------------------------7.00 am-8.00 pm I 11300 S. M-43 Hwy Delton. Ml 49046 ; Debra Knight Barry Township This notice is given as required by law (MCL 163.498(3j) . « , By Appt 3100 E Dowimg Road Hastings, Ml 49058 MONDAY, FEBRUARY 21,2020 LAST DAY FOR VOTER REGISTRATION OTHER THAN IN-PERSON Persons with special needs as denned by the Americans with Disabilities Act should contact the appropriate clerk’s office. • Annette Teny ’ Assyna Township Sample ballots may be viewed at vnvw.mi.gcv/vote. After this date, anyone who qualifies as an elector may register to vote in person with proof of residency (MCL 168.492) at the following: Regular Business Hours Address The purpose of this levy is to fund the capital, equipment and operational needs of the Barry County Centra! Dispatch Center. February 18,2020 © 10:30 am at RUTLAND TOWNSHIP HALL 2461 Heath Road. Hastings, Michigan 4X58 Townships partte-patkig in the February 18.2020 date- Rutland Township February 18 2020 © 9.30 am at THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP HALL 200 East Main Street Middleville. Ml 49333 Townships participating m the Feteuary 16,2020 date Thomapple Townshp YOU MUST BE REGISTERED TO QUALIFY AS A VOTER! QUALIFICATIONS TO VOTE Citizen of the United States At least 18 years of ag« on or before March 10,2020 Resident of Michigan ar»d the townsh«p/aly where you arc applying to vote. February 28.2020 © 12 neon at YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP HALL 2M North Briggs Road, Middleville, Ml 49333 Townships parwoating in the February 28,2020 date. Yankee Spnogi Township February 18,2020 at 10.00 am at CITY OF HASTINGS 201 East State Street. Hastings, Michigan 49058 Townships participating in the Febfuiryta. 2020 date City ol Hastings The Puo'.r Accuracy Test is concxted to 6?m-%trate mat the program anc the computer mat wl.i be used to tabulate t:v.' ;fsuits tar the eieebon have MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24,2020 LAST DAY FOR VOTER REGISTRATION OTHER THAN IN-PERSON Persons Wfth special needs, as oe'- 'ed in tee Ainoncarn wi'n DtsaWrttes Act should contact the Gty or L-wn*ip Pennas who are deji. hard of hear.ny cr speech impaired nav pla? 3 cM through tire Mcrt igan Relay Center TDOn 800 649-3777. Ths •? is g*yen « required py!iw (MCl 168 493-3) �Hastings FFA performs Wade Pennington earned a gold awarci in prepared public speaking. His topic was ’‘Current Dilemma in lhe Dairy Industry.” Kathy Maurer Copy Editor Several members of the Hastings FFA Chapter traveled to Olivet High School Jan. 30 for district-level competition - and most of them will be moving on to the next level. ’rhe district includes Hastings. Maple Salley. Eaton Rapids. Charlotte and Olivet high schools, along with the Calhoun Area Tech Center in Battle Creek. The top two finishers in each event advance to regionals. Not only are individuals and teams placed among competitors, they also receive cither a Gold. Silver or Bronze award rating. Hastings had two individuals place fourth but still received a gold rating, an indication of high performance amid tough competition. A Hastings Middle School team and an individual competitor will be moving on to regionals. Charlie Nickels look second place in Junior High Creed Speaking and earned a Gold rating. The Junior High Conduct of Meetings team, consisting of Kaylie Carl, Trey Casey. Diego Coipel. Heath Hays, Keegan Lindsey, Ryan Van Dorp and Aydria Willard, also placed second with a Gold rating. At the high school level, in individual competitions, Wade Pennington, placed fourth in prepared public speaking and earned a Gold rating: Katie Clark also placed fourth and received a Gold rating in lhe job interview contest. Jade Hunter placed sixth and garnered a Silver rating in job interview. The two high school teams - Ag Issues and Parliamentary Procedure - both took first place, earned Gold ratings, and will advance to regionals. The Ag Issues team includes Faith Beede, Emily Mitchell. Andrew' VanSyckle and Haylee VanSyckle. Members of the Parliamentary Procedure team are Zoey Haight, Addison Horrmann, Emily Roc. Michael Van Dorp, Emma White. Breanna Willard and Kayla Willard. ’'[The] kids worked really hard and overcame many obstacles,” Hastings FFA Advisor Andria Mayack said. ‘‘I’m very proud of them. They are learning to balance school, work, and master the art of these contests. Hiey are doing great things.” Through FFA. students gain leadership and public speaking skills, and prepare for careers in science, business and technology of agriculture. Once strictly an agriculture-focus Andrew VanSyckle. (from left) Faith Beede. Haylee VanSyckle and Emily Mitchell comprise tho Hastings FFA Ag Issues team, which took first place at districts present­ ing the issue of Ag Issues topic was. "Milk vs. Plant-Based Milk" Jade Hunter (left) and Katie Clark both competed in the job interview competition, earning silver and gold awards, respectively. The Junior High Conduct of Meetings team includes (front row, from left) Ryan VanDorp. Kaylie Carl. Trey Casey, (back) Keegan Lindsey. Aydria Willard, Diego The first-place parliamentary procedure team includes (front row, from left) Breanna Coipel and Heath Hays. The middle school students will advance to regionals in Battle Willard, Zoey Haight, Emma White, (back) Kayla Willard, Emily Roe, Addison Creek next week after placing in the top two at the district level in Olivet. Horrmann, and Mike VanDorp. program, FFA’s scope and membership have expanded, but it is still dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of students. Hastings has an alumni chapter, and some alumni members work with current students to prepare for competitions. Mayack said. “We’ve had help from many alumni members, including Ethan Haywood and Austin Hay wood for my Ag Issues team.” she said. “Katie Christie and Kevin Doyle have been important part of the kids learning and accomplishing goals for Parli Pro and Jr. High Conduct ol Meetings Team.” Regionals will begin at 4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13, at Calhoun Area Career Center in Battle Creek. There.FFA members from more than a dozen high schools and three career/ tech centers will compete for the chance to qualify for state competition in early March. “[Hastings Middle School Advisor) Canie Carl and myself couldn’t be prouder.” Mayack said. “Regionals here we come!” ■XS; SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS nJ Ready to retire? Apply online Vondu VunTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist It’s never too early to start planning for retirement, and our online tools can help. Go io socialsccuriiy.gov/myaccouni to access sour My Social Security account to gel a per­ sonalized estimate of your retirement benefits based on your earnings record. Once you have n account, you can use our retirement calcu­ lator. to check out how your benefits change . t different ages. If you don’t have a My Social Security account, you can create one at ‘lK.ialsccurit).gov7inyaceuunt or use our online Retireinvnt Fistimator to get benefit i Minutes at socialsccurity.gov/estimator. You also can use your My Social Security ^coum to see your entire work history to be sure we have all of your wages recorded correctly, which is important because we base your benefit amount on the earnings reported to us. II you find an error with your work history, read this publication for more information: sociaisecuriiy.gov/pubs/EN4)5KXI81.pdf. When you're ready to apply lor Social Security retirement benefits, you can conveniently complete our online application in as little as 15 minutes al socialsecurily.gov/ bcnefits/retireinenl. We will contact you if we need any furthet information. You can check the status of your application through your online account. You may apply online for Social Security retirement, or benefits as a spouse, if you are at least 61 years and o months old: currently receiving . on your own Social Security record- have not already applied tor Mire,nt.m “^lits: and want your benefits to start nQ „i 4 months in the future, (we cannot p,'\ application if you apply f0r Ix-neL ,, J d’»n •» "’rtnlhs in advance) 1 Find out more about cur online services at ^'■“'^"'i^ov/uX^niees. «W MuhiKl,h .! Saurin / ?" „wy ir* h" </o Sri. -W-T5 A"‘W w; Grund RapiJor ^noH-.l2Stin9S e’9hth grader Charlie Nickels (left) took second • Speaking competition and will advance to reaionnls Ho \n P,ace jn Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads 1iua,e Devin Haywood- pp^ Creed currently serving as �The Hastings Danner — Thursday. February 6. 2020 — Pager 13 Jean Lamoreaux helped preserve history, boost trails and events Though a transplant, Jean Lamoreaux fully embraced the history of Barry County She helped organize speakers and guests for the local historical society meetings and even gave presentations, immersing herself in research. Here, in 2018, she is consulted on the possibility of a longsubmerged bridge having been used by ‘•Yankee” Bill Lewis. “In 1841, Yankee Bill’s inn was bigger than Grand Rapids." Lamoreaux said. (File photo) Greg Chandler Staff Writer Local leaders in the Middleville community are paying tribute to former village clerk and trustee Jean Lamoreaux. Lamoreaux. who served as village clerk from 2004 to 2011 and was on the village council from 2014 to 20IX. died unexpectedly Jan. 30. She was 78. A memorial service is planned for 11 a.m. Saturday at Middleville Christian Reformed Church, 708 W. Main St., with visitation one hour prior to the service. “Jean had such a passion for our community,” said Elaine Denton, who succeeded Lamoreaux as village clerk in 2011. “She had the enthusiasm and drive to always find a way to promote Middleville. I will miss her.” The village council held a brief moment of silence before Tuesday’s committee of thc whole meeting in memory of Lamoreaux. Village 1 Ye si de nt Charlie Pullen praised Lamoreaux for her upbeat spirit and willingness to seek out information on an issue. “She will be duly missed.” Pullen said. “If you had something (you had a question on] any topic - that lady could find the answers for you." History and the North Country Trail were two of Jean.L ekills tn . ,r?lerests- She used hcr characteristic determination and problem-solving help locale the long-missing Yankee Springs Inn state marker. Here, wean g . "n Country Trail earrings, she speaks to a crowd gathered in April 2018 whe one marker was Jean Lamoreaux was known for her ability to see projects through to completion. One area where she failed, however, was retirement. She is pictured here during one of her attempts to retire from the Village of Middleville, joined by DDA board chairperson Mike Lytle and former village manager Rebecca Fleury. Lamoreaux worked as clerk, trustee and DDA events coordinator at various times. (File photo) “She’s been such a strong advocate for Middleville and the trails in our area for a long lime,” said Larry Pio, immediate past president of the Chief Noonday Chapter of NCTA and a current board member of the association. "She was such a generous and nice lady. I think she was a friend to almost everybody she met." Thc Lamoreauxs were honored in 2016 with the NC'I Chief Noonday Chapter’s Volunteer of the Year aw ard for their advocacy and volunteer work for the trail, and again last year with the NCTA’s Leadership Award. Limoreaux was an active member in the Barry County Historical Society, and played a leading role in the rededication of lhe Yankee Springs state historical marker, which had been stolen, returned, moved and ultimately forgotten. The marker, which tells the story of local innkeeper Yankee Bill Lewis, was rededicated in April 2018. in a ceremony she helped coordinate. "She worked very hard on this, from many different sides.” said Diane Hawkins, an assistant librarian at the Hastings Public Jean (left) and Cal Lamoreaux accept an award in 2019 from Andrea Ketchmark, Library who served with Lamoreaux on the North Country Trail Association executive director. The Lamoreauxs received the historical society’s board. NCTA Leadership Award after being nominated by the local aapter. (NCT Chief Hawkins added that Lamoreaux was Noonday Chapter photo) responsible for booking programs for lhe historical society, and was in the process of A native of Byron (.'enter. Lamoreaux impacton the Midd/evi1k\ommunity.starting writing a book about the stagecoach lines that worked for the United Stales Postal Sen ice as her appointment as village clerk in 2004. served Barry County during the mid-1800s. for 20 years, starting as a third-shift worker at She became a passionate voice for the Miller Road L'.SPS station in Kalamazoo, development of the Paul Henry Thomapple eventually working hcr way up to becoming 1’rail as a member of the North Country Trail postmaster in three different communities - Association, which she had joined with hcr Big Rapids. Battle Creek and Comstock Park. husband. Cal 1 .amoreaux. after their marriage The former Jean Havenaar made hcr in 2006. rededicated. (File photo) "I don’t do anything halfway.” Lamoreaux said during an interview in January 2014. “If I take on a job, I do it with my whole heart and soul...” • Lamoreaux created the position of event coordinator for Middleville’s Downtown Development Authority in 2011. and held that position for 3 1/2 years. She was also’ instrumental in thc creation of Middleville’s Woodpecker Festival, which was started it? April 2011 to attract the birdine community to Middleville. Lamoreaux also had a passion for seniors in Barry County. She served on the Barry county Commission on Aging Board from’ 2016 to 2018. “She was concerned about the older adults’ in our community,” COA Executive Director Tammy Pennington said. Lamoreaux is survived by her husband;’ three sons. John (Felicia) Havenaar. Jerry (Deb) Havenaar. and Jay Havenaar. daughter, Jena (Wayne) Nooney; 14 grandchildren: siblings, Donna (Tom) Kinnane. Rose (Jim)’ Ennis, Dawn (Dennis) Vanderstel, Loue (Jamie) Aranguren, Kaye (Darrell) Evans; Nancy (Ron) Zocman, Sophie (Jim) Radlinski' and Mike Pawloski. Memorial contributions may be made ih' honor of Lamoreaux to the Thomapple Trail’ Association, P.O. Box 393. Middleville. MF 49333. ’ TAPKC collecting; sporte equipment for upcoming sate Why every angler and boater needs this map Neon green barrels have been scattered throughout town as thc I hornapple Area Parks and Recreation Commission (TAPRC) prepares for its 1st Annual Used Equipment Sale. After an 0Tor-7 night from behind the three-point line, ballplayers may leave that unlucky basketball in the container outside the high school gymnasium. Someone who has outgrown their set of golf clubs may drop them in the container in the entry way to the Thomapple Township office. T he TAPRC is collecting any and all gently used sports equipment. from clothing like cleats or baseball pants lo baseballs, basket­ STREAM MAP I f knewn to ■ । k.j.jic because Vie maps wre priced in cca-pnctcsrap^i: ?. h r 5 even ottered $400 for cnJ ct hsl maos. And staW ag*v?s *;•'* forced to kfp iter copies under I I 1 I I I I I I BONUS REPORT: How Anglers Stalk and Catch Record Fish r/?-1 averaue big i>s.h has evaded capture for over 10 y^rs. Find out wh ch instincts set them apart hum sma' ei !i<h Staking and catching a trophy neon 'cs Kno.'. of th^ir unique habits and those specs', times when then gu.mi ,s down Armed with the inlomiitiQii in this new and e^mswc 24-page repoet-you could be ;n (or the- Ignt o! yo.i "t haw. on& c( t??e ongna! h Map 0! Penrsyu:) ’ a Of', my a.t; • -j H?/ f rf«’sk Its tn.? best th'/'.Q streams aru concerned I uv.for reference I dvn t knew erf anyth more. extensve and.$ thp most accu.v? ,r jp . there as far as si err. .va concnnxJ ’ ' • Dave Wolf. 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A.i‘ creaLj- 534.45 F a . $49.45 • Check or Money order enclosed $_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Orders He: MG r. ?5 Equipment Sale bln outside”the qynums? batteba11 bals inWJ"Xw h 4sed SP°rts TAPRC is collecting gently usodspX "Jm * Th°"'ap<VS' *5* SCh0°L Th° -Muipmeni for its; r i lakes shov.n on lhe Stream & Lake Ltap. Youi map ami guidebook v»Hl take you to the (op 443 ^'ecl / . select waters (or 14 species ofgamebsh Professor Hgbee pi p'rtedbyhM r.elov^cf 45.000 m :es ol strums rt j ir<e map. i’soidecv'^v.f.'-u^ ar: I if..* pdnter tfocto’ed teiAd Hose’s work to^^ ([)e play." Getty *•" • ’ J equipment that our quality sports cloll ri..purposc th<»e kids have tiulgro«"• 1 tl,mmmiit) bene items and let others........ fit" been donated by All the bms 'J(w jK school disPlummer’s Dis^tsa1 and ()f ||)e „ .,y trict has Ixx-nsupportt't every onsets as 1 a 30 year effort by H: 1 a form;? Penn Stole Professor. 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I by fubru.vy 10th Sh’p In Time for V •:'_ 's f?;sy J-AD GRAPHICS 1351 North M-43 Highway Hastings, Ml 49058 Customer Service • 1.B00.326.9694 �Page 14-Thursday. Fetwvary 6. 1 Oratory duel again highlights American Legion contest Growing list of Public hearings means progress for planning commission .'adjoining 1 ,/Thc r.S suburban to portion o P ** ' c from R-« _ go X". Hastings I nnce (1 the zoning R-R rural residential.basc the land approved, an agreement t > P WI|I from Hexfab Horizon. Inc-for ’ After holding onc pUblic hearing for a proposed project Legacy at Hastings golf course ’’'^h Broadway, be executed. Emetics and had a ••We did our m said Tom meeting with the neighReaj Watson, a partner in the P mcmbcr at group and the only . „Fourtcen pcOple Monday s meeting. _ fortunately, showed up - homeowner, ’ . what thc people around us are supporti wc are looking to do. meeting. In remark, made as he left die meeting. Watson indicated that the group pe_irking the additional parcel of land to addi parking a. lhe facility and around res mam'enMCe building as well as to offer ho our5e sites. Homeowners surrounding the co now use wells and septic systems.A chang suburban to rural residential would offc potential for those homeowners to hook up to city water and sewer services if an commissioners sch2i„i,d two more for their next monthly March 2, then received notice th.JL.fmiiy have to book a third one for the san'’C£,te. We ve receive a preliminary •’"« P1™ for a project also withjn (he Court Street PUD which w^^'X-ssitale a public » et-nt- in qnturdav^ Zone 2 American Legion High School Oratorical Contest ««■" •—* « iK"a: - ___________________ Francesca Rahe. second. _________ _ •X. American Legion officials celebrate with contestants Saturday during the annual Zone 2 finals of the Legion’s High School Oratorical Contest at the Lawrence J. Bauer Post 45 on South M-37. Pictured (from left) are Zone 2 Commander Richard Parks; contestants Anna Grejlak of Monroe. Aaron Siebelink of Wyoming. Luke Manring of Richland, and Francesca Rahe of Hillsdale; Bauer Post 45 Commander Steve Carr; and Bauer Post and Zone 2 chair of the Education and Scholarship Committee Jim Atkinson. (Photos by Mary Atkinson) Doug VanderLaan Contributing Writer L. Apparently, only the maximum age requirement will keep Aaron Siebelink out of tlie American Legion’s annual National High School Oratorical Contest. ’ Two years ago. Siebelink. a home­ schooled senior from Wyoming, won the Zone 2 finals ot the Lawrence J. Bauer American Legion Post 45 in Hastings and went on to win the state finals in a scholarship competition the American Legion has held since 1938 to encourage a student’s knowl­ edge of the LLS. Constitution. Last year, the defending champion lost his Zone 2 crown to high school sophomore Francesca Rahe. of Hillsdale Academy. ,u Saturday, though, a determined Siebelink was back in Hastings for a third year, ready to reclaim his zonal title and the possibility of winning a scholarship of $18.(100 to thc even­ tual national champion. Siebelink’s challenge was three-fold, however, in the presence of not only Rahe, but of homeschooled senior Luke Manring of Richland, who won the semi-final round in Hastings two weeks ago, and unknown Anna Grejtak. competing for lhe first time as a senior from St. Mary's Catholic Central High School in Monroe. . “Why do I keep coming back?" Siebelink asked, repeating an obvious question from an jqterviewer. “One. because of lhe scholarship money, but two. because 1 just really love doing this. Every year (here have been so many wonderful experiences, and you get to meet some really great people. I love this.” r That adoration was even more satisfactory tor Siebelink Saturday as he edged out Rahe on thc judges’ scoring cards by a mere 15 points (out of 400 awarded) to qualify for the contest's state final round March 7 at the Gerald R. Ford Museum in Grand Rapids. “It was a nail-biter.” confirmed Atkinson who conceded that he. too. initially was stunned that scoring could have been so close. “The contest went well. Two of thc contes­ tants were obviously experienced, but Luke (Manring) did very, well as did Anna (Grejtak j in her first year of competing." All four contestants delivered an 8- to 10-minutc prepared oration on an aspect of the Constitution of their choosing, then came back for the second round in a 3- to 5-minute assigned topic dealing w ith one of four previ­ ously stated constitutional amendments ran­ domly drawn on lhe day of the contest. Thc amendment drawn Saturday was Amendment XXIV which addresses thc guarantee of a citizen’s right to vote regardless of lhe failure to pay a poll tax or any other tax. At the state finals level, Siebelink will bc aiming for a first-place prize of $1300. The runner-up will receive a $1,000 scholarship and $800 each will go to the third, fourth and fifth place finishers. At the national finals, in Indianapolis April 17-19, each of the 55 con­ testants will receive an automatic $1,500. Semi-final round winners will be awarded another $1500. and top finishers will receive $l8j()00 for first place. $16,000 for second, and $14,000 for third. “1 was still really nervous again." Rahe said of hcr performance Saturday, recalling that she overcame nerves last year to win the Zone 2 competition. She then turned to Siebelink to say, “1 was really nervous for you today, too, because I knew Luke (Manring) won two weeks ago. I just knew this (closely decided point’s margin] could happen, but it was a good experience." Both Rahe and Siebelink confirmed the collegial nature among contestants and the pride they share in each other’s performances. “k’s a camaraderie," Siebelink said, "and one of my favorite things is meeting new peo­ ple and seeing them again at contests." Rahe and Siebelink may even sec each other again next year. Rahe. who’s hoping to pursue ancient Near East studies al the University of Chicago, said she’ll be back as a high school senior to compete in 2021. T hough he’ll be a high school graduate and ineligible lo compete, Siebelink said he, too, may be back next year even if he is carrying through on current plans lo study music at Grand Rapids Community College. “I might be back lo watch." Siebelink said. “1 love this." Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: ’ All rod e ».♦ tn. ... A<1 . ! “ •' Vi.’, /, i Civil R • • Ait iv'-. ’h , i’fr.’tncl) i<*• !•’ d.i.iim.f-.z-t’J <’•' . . _< *■’’ ,f Automotive Business Services 03 HONDA PILOT, leather, good condition inside, needs motor. Asking $1300 OBO. 269-838-6590. LET ME BE your Personal Shopper. Are yotr looking tor that special gift for Val­ entine's Day, Birthdays or Anniversaries, etc? Are you needing help dressing for success? I have many years of experience. Contact Eileen 2b9-948-880L____________ ,• . r <-r IWT: 1 - Business Services MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets bale spears, etc. ( all 269-804-75(16. BE I IS CONSIRUCI1ON-18 ye.us experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements. Dis count for Seniors & Veterans. 269- 32U- .3890. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability 6z workman's comp Fetterley Logging. (269)818-7793. , to rezone a l*ouB Van‘)<'rI "an ,Whal kickcd olf 'h“' development LLC. Thc _, conirihutin^ ^r ter , , enthusiasm. was thc unveiling at the January "g-ndnute meeting planning commission meeting of For much 7, nrT' 9«-minirte of a 45-unit Monday, the u L City Planning housing project being planned for the Court Commission L be in the public Street PUD area by Kendall Place, a Grand hearing busine^^ Rapids-based development group. Kendall hearing.' Community Development Director Dan King told commoners, referring to a planned unit dcve|onL.,nt area bordered by South Park. West court and West State streets. King indicated that a hoped-for contact from the project’^ irchitc^1 had not been received prior to Monday night’s meeting which could have provided approval to discuss the venture and schedule thc public hearing. “It’s one that could generate a fair amount of public comment" said King who mentioned that a March 2 public hearing Ixeforc the planning ‘commission would be crucial to the project’s timing for securing possible state funding Guided by the gr0Up’s bylaws, planning commission Chair David Hatfield suggested he could schedule a public hearing for March 2 outside a formal meeting and vote of commissioners upon King’s request. The iLs-yet-unknown project would add another layer of development within the Court Street PUD area, a section of cityowned land that has remained undeveloped and unused just off the southwestern comer of thc city’s main Broadway-State Street intersection. Place was one of thc two projects assigned a public hearing for thc March 2 meeting at which it will receive a final site plan review. Thc second public hearing that evening will be to consider a preliminary site plan and a rezoning request from Four Leaf Properties of Oak Brook. III., for improvements and additions it hopes to make at the Mcadowstone Mobile Home Park it recently purchased on Lavender Drive in thc southeast section of lhe city near Star Elementary School. Project engineer Robert luimer of Exxel Engineering in Grand Rapids worked through a list of concerns provided by planning commission consultant Rebecca Harvey regarding the changes Mcadowstone is proposing, including an addition of 34 mobile home sites. Also addressed were issues concerning minimum lot sizes, setbacks, screening, recreation areas and lighting. "As much as possible, lhe site will remain as is," said Lamer, noting that because of topography and the difficulty of adjusting and providing new screening, some changes will occur. “Our intent is to leave it as it is." The planning commission unanimously granted the request for next month’s public hearing to consider rezoning the project from D-2 industrial to planned unit development and to review thc final site plan March 2. The public hearing that did receive a platform Monday didn’t play to much of an audience, given that it was convened by the planning commission to solicit public comment on a request from a group of investors known as Par-Tee Real Estate, they arc offered. .... “You obviously did a good job addressing thc questions [of neighbors] since no onc is here tonight," Hatfield said. . In other business, the planning commission: . • Reviewed a 17-point general work task list to be accomplished by the commission in 2020. • Received a master plan update from consultant Rebecca Harvey who reported that the project is on schedule for completion in March. The business and growth strategy section will be forwarded to the steering committee next week. A "well-known guest speaker" will be coming to the city to end that phase of the master plan’s progress to bc followed by infrastructure and collaborations report development. MDHSS invites input on new aging plan one of 16 sites in state Driver arrested after alcohol-related crash The Michigan Connission on Services to lhe Aging and thc ApAjMnd Adult Services Agency are inviting the public to join an upcoming community conversation in Hastings to discuss the needs of older adult residents. The forum will be T hursday, Feb. 20, at the Barry County Commission on Aging, 320 Woodlawn Ave., from 1 to 2:30 pan. “This is the first time in my 32 years that the stale has come into Barry County to do a public input session of this type,” said Tammy Pennington. COA executive director said. “It’s a wonderful thing.” Even' three years, thc Aging and Adult Services Agency, which is part of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, develops a state plan and seeks input regarding lhe needs and gaps in programs and services. The feedback is used to ensure priorities are on track with its support of thc health and well-being of Michigan’s older adult population. The State Plan on Aging senes as a blueprint that outlines the coordination and advocacy activities undertaken to meet thc needs of older adults, including integrating health and social services delivery systems. The goal is to complete the new state plan by July 1. “Michigan is one of the most rapidly aging slates in thc country,” Dr. Alexis Travis, senior deputy director of Aging and Adult Services Agency, said. “By 2025, the number of Michiganders age 65 and over will outnumber those under the age of 18. As people are living longer wc must be strategic, collaborative and innovative in our work. That means we need the opportunity to hear from lhe public about the realities of aging in Michigan and hope t0 have great participation in these community conversations.” Dona Wishart, chair of Commission on Services to thc AeinP said public input is vital. “Whether yof ^ older adult a caregiver or soincon(, working *•'!> n,dcr adults >n a volunleer Sessional capacity, we urge you to particiD_.Pe in these conununrty conversations. Your feedback is impc«uve'° cnsunng the new SI “ 0|.m addresses the critical needs of older adults i» our Stt,e” . „ A ,olal <>f 16 forums re planned around the state, tncluding Eaton Area Sentor Services Center, go! s Cochran Ave., Charlotte, Feb io < U4 , tn I• 30 p m.The raining forums Brooklyn, De, in Kalkaska, M^Oqoe.Midhad^^shores. Portae, liiree Rivers Tw. ••A|on Anyone with h?*1 ^^Jiisight into the needs of older ■>, " "o'1 .Ofviled to attend a l"o«l commit iSl£- hmited, and or-?1n- ,n is mite RSVPs for Police were notified of a single-vehicle crash on M-43 near Biddle Road in Rutland Charter Township at 11:45 p.m. Feb. 1. A woman said a vehicle pulled out in front of hcr and swerved across the road before crashing. When thc officer arrived, a 26-jear-old Vermontville man refused medical treatment and said he hit a patch of ice.It appeared the vehicle had hit a tree and spun 180 degrees before stopping. The officer asked if the driv­ er had been drinking, and the man said he’d had two or three beers. When lhe officer asked if he had two or three more beers after that, the man replied “Maybe." When the officer pointed out lhe road was dry and lhe temperature was above freezing, lhe man changed hk story- and said another vehicle forced him off lhe road. He eventually recanted his story back to lhe ice patch. He registered a 0.214 blood-alcohol content and had an open fifth of bourbon in the vehicle. He was arrested. Man rams truck for unknown reasons A64-year-old Bellevue man called police at 6 p.m. Feb. 2, to report another 64-year-old Bellevue man was ramming his truck with his own truck. The victim had parked at his residence in the KXXXJ block of East Eddy Road in Assyria Tow nship while he was doing chores around his farm. He saw the suspect back into his truck, and he jumped in his truck to try to move it, but the man blocked him in the driveway and continued lo ram his truck twice more while the victim was inside. He got out of the vehicle and called lhe police, while watching lhe man continue to ram his truck. The man estimated the suspect hit his truck about 12 times. When police asked the suspect if the rammed the truck he replied, “Yeah, I did. because he acts like he knows everything." He registered a 0.17 BAC and was arrested. Vehicle runs out of gas, driver has meth Two officers watched a van stop in lhe middle of East Madison Street in Hastings after turning from East State Street at 1:22 p.m. Feb. 1. The 30-year-old male driver told police he d run out of gas and confessed to having a suspended license. Officers arrested the man for driving without a license, and searched the vehicle. Inside they found a substance scat­ tered on the passenger seat and floor, which the man claimed was Epsom salt. An officer conducted a methamphetamine field test on the substance, which was negative. However, a plastic bag in the passenger seat tested positive for meth. I’he man had prior convictions for use of meth and driving on a suspended license. Grandfather victim of $9,432 phone scam An 80-year-old Delton man called police Jan. 25 to report he was the victim of a phone scam the previous day. The man said he received a call at 10 a.m. Jan. 24, from a man who claimed to be his grandson. The caller said he hit another vehicle in an accident and was m jail. The grandfather pointed out his grandson sounded different, but the caller claimed to have a sinus infection, and was crying the entire conversation, so he accepted that his grandson s voice would sound diflerent. The man was then contacted by another caller who claimed to bc his grandson’s law yer. Thc lawyer said he was able to get thc grandson’s bond lowered to $9,432. but the man couldn’t tell anyone, not even his wife, or the deal would be revoked. The man went to the bank and wired the money to a Miami account c grandson’ called lhe next day and said lhe money didn’t go through, which is when the man grew’ suspicious and asked the caller to verify personal details, which is when he hung up. The case remains under investigation. nen hC Pistol, wallet stolen from Prairieville truck A 46 year-old man called police at 6:47 a.m. Jan ^7 to retxirt item« ■ t rW5c^Ck’“T*1 t’t,hCfl200",,bl0CkofS>«-” Po>"« «riveinPrairievi kTownfi' A .45 caliber pistol, pellet nfle and wallet were stolen from the truck, which was unlocked The case is inactive without any suspects. unlocked. Burglar hospitalized after trying to sell stolen goods Phu Michigan State Police responded to a home invasion in thp 1 ri u e r> M-43 in Barry Township Feb. 3. Several items I. dine run wL uT > °f Soulh the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety were c alled to Brotkon Hospii-d day to investigate a man who said he had been assaulted with a gun. Police Sd th old Kalamazoo man’s vehicle and found one of th</ u 4 1 *-4-yearinside. Officers then teamed lhe man had been assaulted while attemm n°. ^'4 n residcncc he had stolen. Officers arrested the man and located other missinc itP £- ° W lhc ,len,s 1900 block of Byrum Street in Kalamazoo. 8 ,n ain the �LEGAL NOTICES Notice IS SI wn . solo o! the mortg.igoo ,bo,'°'CC'o:rd k>twn. at a pubk aueVs£^h£™' ™ °‘ tor casn or cash'er's chpck at th* Ji n c> b dd€r circuit court in Barry County. st-..’* Oi ^,Jl;n9 the PM, on February 20 ’’020 ThV^^0^*'1’ ^tTOo may & «J«« IN highest t>'d at the sa'e doe- nm . < P?cn'’ entitle the purchaser to free and ctea) owr^h?"'! the property. A potential purchaser is encouXd contact the county rcusTr Of deeds ollice or’i r'e tnstxance company, either ot v.h.ch may charge a ion to' the information: y ™ u tee Jtome(s) of the mortgagor's); Adnan C. Erdslev n mameoman ci.osey, a Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Pegsbalton Systems, inc. . 1 onc cJSSnn *“*"<rf any): Ame'iFlr!t F‘nan“' Dale of Mortgage: October 26,2016 Datecf Mortgage Recordng: November 17,2016 Amount cla’med due on date of notion' 5101 5^5 ^p Description o- th.-, mortgaged premises: Situated in City cf Hastings. Barry County. Michigan, and 2Ef?be? tS>L0t ? cf Block 6 c! Chamberlain? addition to the City. Fbrmerty Village c! Hastings. BarrCounty. Michigan, accord nq to the iccord-'d Plat thereof, as recorded tn Uber i of Plats, page 7’ Common street address (if any): 236 W Nelson S’ Hastings, Ml 49053-2566 ’~ * The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determ*ned ab^ndont-d n accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or. if the sub.ec! real property ts used tor agncu’tura! purpoxes as drln^d by MCL 600.3240(16). H the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961. pursuant to MCL 600.3276 tho borrower w.’l be he'd responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sa'o or to the mortgage holder for damag'ng the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a m tary service member cn active duty, if your period cf active duty has concluded fess than 90 days ago, c •! you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing tho mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. Th.s notice is from a debt cciiecto'. Date of notice. January 23, 2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Suite 145 Farmington Hiiis. Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1407311 (01-23X02-13) 135S99 I FORECLOSURE NOTICE . : . Attention homeowner.’ If you are a mAtory service member on active duty, if your ptyiod of active duty has conduced less than 90 days apo. O' if you have been ordered to active duly, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing tho mortgage at tho telephone number stated in this not.ee. Notice of foreclosure by advertisement. Notice is gwen under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236. MCL 600.3212. that the following mortgage wili be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest biBB __ „. ... cash or cashier's check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 01:00 PM, February 27. 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater cn the day of the sale. Placing the highest b d at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership cf the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register cf deeds office cr a title insurance company, either of which may charge a toe for this information. Default has been made m the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Richard S Saylo' Jr. a married man to Fifth Third Mortgage - Ml. LLC. Mortgagee, dated May 15, 2015, and recorded on June 5. 2015, as Document Number: 2015-005592, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Fifth Third Bank. National /vssociation. successor to Fifth Third Bank, as successor by merger to Fifth Third Mortgage Company by an Assignment of Mortgage dated July 29. 2015 and recorded August 06, 2015 by Document Number: 2015­ 007715, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ono Hundred Ten Thousand Seven Hundred Seventy-Four and 2q/1C0 ($110,774.29) including interest at the rato of 3.37500% per annum Said premises are situated in the Township of Assyria. Barry County. Michigan, and are described as; Beginning at the northwest corner of the east naif of the southwest quarter of section 26. town 1 north range 7west; thence south along the west line of wd east hal of the southwest garter. 773 feet; thence east at 01 me , J ne ?g5 feet to the true Of less to the cente» in Jne 516 fvet more northwesterly along ’st 295 feot from :iaid or less to a penlw h . - soulhwest quarter; west tine of the east na 0 id wost )ine 659 feet thence south ParalJe’*,l 7 JLnning. Subject to more or toss to theipv ,.'t<»r!y 33 feet thereof an easement over the norths- for public h^l^vUE. Ml 49021 If the as: 9350 E JONEo RD. BBLr^orecIobU,0 sale, the property is eventual./ -O * montb5 do-n the redemption period - y |S abandoned or date of sale unless Uw P F |f tno property is used for agricultural purp ^ofdance with MCL determined aOanocned ■\a the redemption penod 600.3241 and/Cr 600.3241 U ,5 d:)/, w,il be 30 days <<om lhe djiie o |( (|)i, after statutory not'cc. • - '(jsod for agncultumi property is presumed '' fOf<;C!osure sato purposes prior to th« ; JQ (hn redemption penod pursuant to MCL 600-‘'. qOq 3278. J the pfoport7 is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL bonower(s) ^(I, is sold at a forectosune sa. , v/no buy& he be held responsible 10 sale or to the property at the the property dunng mortgage holder PURCHASER^ the redemption p' noJ J f0SC!nd thu uu'U In H al fcreclosingmortgaf?'5 * |f uny. united event, your r\Ount tendered at sa . Itoe return of the brJ .*•< p^noai* - ’ t interest Dated: fo< Tn'd ' nt’ > & Associates. National Au.oc.aticn^cccs as .x«-z,o; by SX h!j Ml 9:00 a.m.-5:00 pm caw tn Fifth Third MortW- ' 5. “,**£*'. PMrict. NOTiL7 - lived ,m f.fin ’* ‘, 219 m ' W- Vc,t,uyf’- Dato ol birth Uo/ ] //1960. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decent John W V.-r.-toy d Ad 05/15/2019. Creditors of the decedent are notified that ntl cfaims against the estate will be forever baned unless pre> nf.?d to Tonja K. Versluys. personal representative, or to bath tho probate court nt 206 W. Court Street. Hastings. Ml 49059 and the personal repiescntative within 4 months after tho date of publication of this notice. Date: 01/29. 2020 Diomas E. Lane P36477 668 Cascade West Pkwy. SE Grand Rapids, VI 49546 (616) 285-6050 Tonja K Versluys 6009 Usbomo Road Freeport. Ml 49325 (616)869 4908 136537 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement. Notice is given und'-r section 3212 of the revised judicalureact of 1961,1961 PA236. MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will bo foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part ol them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding tho circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM. on March 05, 2020. rhe amount due cn the mortgage may bc greater on the day of lhe sale. Piaemg the highest b d at the sale does not automatically entitle tho purchaser to free ana clear ownership of lhe property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact tne county register of deeds office or a title Insurance company, either of -which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE Mortgagor(s): Petry Ramsey and Diane Ramsey, husband and wife Original Mortgagee; Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc ("MERS"). soiely as nominee for lender and lenders successors and assigns Date of mortgage: June 22. 2007 Recorded on July 2. 2007, in Document No. 1182474. Foreclosing Ass gneo (if any): New Residential Mortgage, LLC Amount claimed to be due at the date hereof. Seventy-Nine Thousand Two Hundred Ninety-One and 32/100 Dollars lS79.291.32) Mortgaged premises: Situated in Barry County, and desenbed as: A parcel of land in the West 1/2 of tho Southwest 1/4 of Section 26, Town 3 Norin, Range 8 West, described as: Commencing at a po nt in the center o! the Highway 220 feet North of the intersection ot M-79 with lhe Highway leading North in tne Village of Qu;mby: thence East 175 feet; thence North 80 feet; thence West 175 feet: thence South 89 feet to tho place of beginning. Commonly known as 2941 Dusty Lane. Hastings, Ml 49058 The redemption period win be 6 months from tho date of such sale, unless abandoned under MCL 600.3241a. in which case the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of such sale, or 15 days from the MCL 600.3241a(b) notice, whichever is later; cr unless extinguished pursuant to MCL 6C0.3238 If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of Act 236 of 1961. under MCL 600.3278. the borrower will be held responsible to the person Who buys the jJiopenym tne mortgage foreclosure * sa'e o- to the mortgage holder for damaging tho property dunng the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a m.litary service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 99 days ago. or if you have been ordered to active duly, pieaso contact the attorney tor tho oarty foreclosing tho mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. New Residential Mortgage LLC Mortgagee/Assignee Schne-'derman & Sherman P.C. 23938 Research Dr. Suite 330 Farmington Hills, Ml 48335 248.539.7400 1409105 (02-06),02-27, 136356 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE BY ADVERTISEMENT. Notice is given under section 3212 of tho revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236. MCL 600.3212. that the following mortgage w. i be foreclosed by a sa’e cf the mortgaged premises, cr some part cf them, a! a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of hold'ng the c rcuit court m BARRY County, starting promptly at 1:00 p.m.. on Febru try 13. 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on tho cay of tne sale. Placing the highest b d al the sale does rot automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser Is »2ncouraged to contact the county register cf deeds office or a tale insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for tn-s information. MORTGAGE INFORMATION: Default has boon made in the cond t ons of a certain mortgage made by Rodney Esseltino and Bonne K Esseltme, whose address is 9349 Lost Trail Drive Dciton. M.chigin 49046. as original Mortgagors’ 10 Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc being a mortgage dated January 31. 2CC8 a-to recorded on December 1. 2C08 as document numne-r 20081201-0011457 . Barry County Record;, S^te , Michigan Sad mortgage is now held through mesn* assignments by C.irrmgton Mortgage Senses LLC. as assignee as documented by an assunmont dated February 20. 2014 and recorded on juh, ? 2014 ns document number 2014-006266 Ba-rC County Records. Michigan, on which mortgage there is c-am.ed to be duo at the date hereof the « SEVENTY-ONE THOUSAND THREE HUNDRrn THIRTY-ONE AND 73/100 DOLLARS (S7i 331 7^? Sa d premises are situated in the- Townsh 0 ct Ha County cf Ba-iy. Slate of Michigan, and are descr rS : LOTS 9 AND 10 OF LEINAAR PUT. ACCORD^r TO THE RECORDED PUT THEREOF. AS RECOn^n IN UBER 4 OF PUTS ON PAGE 39. SlrJa^° 9349 Lost Tra l Dr.ve, Delton, M<ri.g.:n 49546 Th* redemption period shall be 6 months from lhe d,tp of such sale unless the property v> abandoned n accordance with MCU § 600 324in in which case the redemption period shaft be 30 da ' from tne date of the sale. If the prepay ,s <-0!d m foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 ol tho Rnv'lJ Judicature Act of i%1. pursuant to MCU § 609 327/ the borrower w.: bo held responsible io me pft-SOn who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sa.e or to toe mortgage holder fQr damaging m* property dunng m? nxlcmpticn peflOd n.% r.R.. IS A DEBI COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING 10 Cqh r™ A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAtw WILL BE USED EOR THAT PURPOSE ATTENTION HOMEOWNER: IF YOU ARE A MILITARY SEfivtrr: MEMBER ON ACTIVE DUTY. IT YOUR period op ACTIVE DUTY HAS CONCLUDED LESS THAN W) days AGO. OH IF YOU HAVE BEEN ORDERED Tn ACTIVE DUTY, PLEASE CONTACT THE ATTQRNFV FOR THE PARTY FORECLOSING THE MORTGAGE Ar IHETElEPHONENUMBERSlATEDINfHlSNOTiCE Drted .tonujry 16. 2020 For mere mfomralion p'- * / rontacl the atlorruy tor tt e party foredooms; Kenneth j Johnsen. John—•» Blumberg. & Assqc.atcs. 11 c 5955 V.'r.l Main Streit, Sure in, Kaanvurup fzj 49309. T- r phr,-. (3121 541 9716 File No • mi ,n 4033 (01 (01-30X02-20) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF CARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 20-23421-DE . The I fastings Banner — Thursday, Febru-rr/ 6, 2020 „c6r<’C?EOlToRS HOTI0' Tru'1 02-PQ 13S649 d IX Und<dit«l ° 6 I"8’ wi^'Dne' L*l<ron«n 13 at,«tlen: SKied 10 K«V"’J1,4 Mins n, J5"*1 "“Ste® at Bs^pubI^^4 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Trust Estate 8 Decedent. Anthon-/W B1:? Daloof birth: April 2.1940 TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS’ The decoded. Anthony W B v.-bo liv'd at 3109 Bass Point DrDe Delton, Michigan, died January 8. 2020 Them is no probate estate Creditors ct the dcc:d.nt are nut'.ed that an dim-. -’-'Ja ns’. Anthony V». Bills of The Anthony W. Lf.i:s Revocable Trust dated Octctx-' 9.1991. as amended reit ited :n total on Odobr-r 14. 2008 w l bo forever barred unless presented to David A. Bi hi, thc named Trustee witnm 4 months alter tho date cf puMcation cf this notice Date 1/31/2020 Michele C. Marquardt P39165 Hastings, M--r ■ 059.945-9557 Kevin LeckrO?frn 48823 136613 Notice of For^der socfbo^V,0rtisomcnt Notice is 9‘^n^?r 1961 revi5od judicaturemortgage w 7 'T^1-600-3212, Lt (1,0 lollop I'0WIO0M by a sale of the modgsg -e, or eorrc part Q| thom. at a check i" a1’3;' W*' tor cash or ca-^f Count^e? aco ol ho!d,n() the circuit court in B ^ty. starting promptly at 1:00 PM. on M C bQ Sjbe amount due on lhe ntortgage n»^st --ater on tho day of sale. Placing 9the pUrehJ! ho “Io does not automatically ent‘ ® nGftv A f to fr°° and c,oar ownership of the P;^; Potential purchaser is encouraged to C°nlaar,co ^S'Ster of deeds office or a title insuraPhl_ ,' pany. either of which may charge a fee for this info^.^. Name(s) of the mortgagors): Rodney L. Brownell, 4'original Mortgage®- Great Union Mortgage Company . .. Foreclosing Assignee W any). Member First Mortgage. LLC Date of Mortgage: January 13,1997 Date of Mortgage Record ng- January 24.1997 Amount claimed due on date Of notice: $19,355.20 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Barr/'. Barry County, Michigan, and described as: The Part of the Southeast 1/4 ol the Northeast 1/4 of Section 9, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, lying Westerly cf Highway known as Kingsbury Road, also that part jpf the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 9, Town 1 North. Range 9 West tying West of the center cf Kingsbury Road. Common street address (if any): 11260 Kingsbury Rd. Deltcn. Ml 49046-8537 The redemption period shad be 1 year from the date of such sale, unless ottermined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Rev^ d Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 tho borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property al tho mortgage foreclosure sale cr to the mortgage holder for darning tho property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner tyou Are a military service member on active duty, ifyaur poriod of active dub/ has concluded less than 90 Cay sago, or if you have been ordered fo active cuty. please contact tho attorney fcr mi? party foreclosing the mortgage at tne telephone number stated in this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: February 6, 2020 Trott Law. P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248)642-2515 1408675 (02-06X02-27) 136637 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of toe revised judicature act cf 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212. that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some pan of them, at a pubi.c auction sale to the highest bidder fcr cash or cashier’s check at toe p'ace of hold-ng tne circuit court in Barry County, stamng promptly at 1:00 PM. on February 20. 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater cn the day of sale. P.ac.ng the highest b;d at me sale does not automatically entrtle toe purchaser to free and clear ownership of the prop-’rty A potent-a’. purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a tale insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) cf the mortgagors): Daniel Lee Schultman. an unmarned man Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, me., as mortgagee, as nommee for lender and lender's successes andtor assigns Foreclos-ng Assignee (if any): AmeriFirst Financial Corporation Date of Mortgage: Auc^t 6, 2018 Dato cf Mortgage Peeing: August 13.2018 Amount claimed duo on date of notice: $129.345.05 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Charier Township of Rut^nd, Barry County. Michigan, and described as: A p3?cel of land located m the Northeast 1/4 of Sect.cn H, Town 3 North. Range 9 West Township of Rutland. Barry County. Michigan, described as follows: Begmn.ng at a point on the center Ime cf Old M-37 which Iles South 00 degrees Ou minutes 20 seconds EaU 433.26 feet and South 50 degrees 33 minutes 20 i>eccndS East 1056.01 feet from the North 1/4 P^st of sa<d Section 11; thence South 39 degrees 26 mmutes 4Q ^conds v/est 169 0 feet; thence North 50 deg^es 33 minuics 20 seconds West 217.69 feet; thence32 degrees 19 minutes 08 seconds East 190.47 eet to the center of said highway; thence South W degrees 33 minutes 20 seconds East 241.32 fc®t *° - place of beginning. Common street address (n 5ny); 2437 w SntQ Rd Hastings. Ml 49058-6561 The redemption por c^ J be 6 months from the date of such sale, abandoned m accordance with MCL or. it thG subject real property *s used for a3,ltw ‘ purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property ’.s S01 . . Or®ciosure sale under Chapter 32 cf thu th^atura Act of 1961pursuant to MCL uOO -2 . “ Grower will bo held responsible to the the property at the mortgage foreclosure s- • ’0 me mortgaga ho!der ’or damaging the P^P- / du;tng u,(j fedemphon P<-nod. Attention homeowh^*are a military service '"’^r on ..ci va duly ■ « pe,ioa rJ «c confute:. Wago. cr if you have Li.en ordered to act * ( , cpnjj-i •Wemey In, ^J'^monqajaathi Mephone nurr.be' state0 ' This notice Is from a dv01 Du’ - of notice- JanuruY Trett Uw. P.C. , 31440 Northwestern IW 0 I45 I arTr.,ng|On Hi’is, Ml 48334 I?4m64?-25I5 140,033 <01-23X02-13) •» * 211 E Water Street. Sta. 401 Kalamazoo, Ml 43007 (269)343-2106 Davd A. B il; Trustee 3065 Br.'-s Point Dr Delton, Ml 49046 269-910-1943 136682 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement. Notice 13 given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage v/ill be foreclosed by a sale ot the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s chock at the place of holding the circuit court In Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on March 05, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater cn the day of lhe sale Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title Insurance company, either cf which may charge a feu tor this information. MORTGAGE: Mortgagor(s): Tammy J. Bordeau, a single woman Orig nal Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronc Registration Systems, Inc. (“MERS"). solely as nominee for lender and lender s successors and assigns Date of mortgage: July 6. 2017 Recorded on July 10, 2017, in Document No. 2017-006882, Foreclosing Assignee (if any): AmeriHome Mortgage Company. LLC Amount claimed to be due at the date hereof: Ono Hundred Th'rty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Six and 52/100 Dollars ($133,406.52) Mortgaged premises: Situated in Barry County, and described as: Lot 110, Middleville Downs No. 5. Village of Middleville, Barry County. Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Bam/ County Records. Commonly known as 210 Meadowlark Ct. Midd'cville. Ml 49333 The redemption period will be 6 months from the dale of such sale, unless abandoned under MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of such safe, or 15 days from the MCL 600.3241 a(b) notice, whichever Is later; or unless extinguished pursuant to MCL 600.3238. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of Act 236 of 1961. under MCL 600.3278, tho borrower writ be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging tho property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact toe attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. AmenHome Mortgage Company, LLC Mortgagee/ Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman P.C. 23938 Research Dr, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, Ml 48335 248.539.7400 1409109 (02-06)(02-27) 136862 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act cf 1961. 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212. that toe following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, cn February 20. 2C20. Tho amount due on toe mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing toe highest bid at too sa'e does not automatically entitle tho purchaser to free and dear ownership of the prcperty. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact tho county register cf deeds office cr a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee tor this informationName(s) of toe mortgagor(s): Robert Peper, a mamed man Ong nal Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or ass-’gns Foreclosing Assignee (J any): MidFIrst Bank Date of Mortgage: May 17,2017 Date of Mortgage Record ng- May 22.2017 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $175,822.29 Description cf the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Barr)’, Barry- County. Michigan, and described as: Commencing in tne center of the road wnere Manning Lake Read intersects the East and West 1/8 line of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 1, Town 1 North. Range 9 West, fo- a place cf beginning, thence North alonq the center of sa d road 36 rods, thence due West 22-1/4 rods, thence South to said East and West 1/8 Ime, thence East 22-1/4 rods along said Tme to the place of beginn ng. Common street address (if any): 1C640 Manning Lake Rd. Delton. Ml 49046-8609 The redemption period shall O’? 6 months fiom tne date Of such sale, un'ess determined abandoned in accordance wim MCL 600.3241a; O', <f toe subject real property s used for agncu-W purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property Is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapte' 32 of the Revised Judicature Act cf 1961. oursuant to MCL 600.3278 too borrower will be held responsiba to toe person who buys Property at the mortgege foreclosure sa’e cr to toe mortgage holder tor damaging the property dunng the redemption P Anotron homeowner ft you are a m htary service member on actwe duty, if your ot active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago. or if you have been ortiered t° ^Uve duty. contact the attorney lor the party foreclose mortg^e at toe te-aphono number stated in to-snutco Th.s notice is from a debt co";»cta' Date c* nobce January 23. 2020 Trott law. PC. 31440 Northwt.sf^n Farmington Hu's. Mi 48334 1407132 (01-23XQ2'|3i February 19.1937. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: lhe decedent ' Chloe M Kuiphof, of 9995 West Garbow Road. M;ddtevilie, Barr/County, Michigan died December ; 27,2019. Greditori; of the decedent are notified that a l claims against the estate w.H be forever barryct unless presented to. Roberta M. DeRoos-Brockway. Trustee of the Chtoe M Kuiphof Prntecnon Trust u/a/d July 9. 2012, as mod toxl on October 31. * 2014 and March 14. 2018. through the Excercise of the Po’/.er of Apopo-ntment. care of Carrier La <y. RC.. 4965 East Boit'ine Avenue NE. Grand Rap ds,‘ Michigan 49525 within 4 months after me date OF. publication cf this nonce. Date: February 3. 2020 David L. Carrier P41531 4965 East Beithne Avenue NE Grand Rapids, Ml 49525 <* . (616)361-8400 Michael D. Creasy v9995 V/est Garbaw Road Middleville. Michigan 49333 136655 STATE OF MICHIGAN BARRY COUNTY TRIAL COURT CIRCUIT DIVISION ORDER TO ANSWER HON. VICKY U ALSPAUGH FILE NO. 20-45-CH . ESTATE OF RICHARD EARL HARROUN 111. By Nonna Christine Harroun, Its Persona’ . Representative, Phamtiff, vs. ANGELA GOMBAR. JOHN CORSIGUA. JAMES ’ CORS1GLIA. and JEREMY CORSIGUA. and/ ’ or OTHER UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JOHN LEE CORSIGLIA and THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JOHN V. CORSIGUA. J 0af?ncl2ni2------------------------------------------- ; David H. Tripp (P29290) Tripp & Tagg, Attorneys at Law 202 South Broadway Hastings, Michigan 43058 (269) 945-9585 AitoinsyJpjLEKvDl'ff---------------------------------- : TO: ANGELA GOMBAR. JOHN CORSIGUA. JAMES CORSIGUA. JEREMY CORSIGUA. AND/OR THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JOHN LEE CORSIGUA AND THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF._ JOHN V CORSIGLIA Based upon the plead ngs fl'ed in the above_ entitled case. IT IS ORDERED that Defendant^ sha'I Me a Notice of interest in the real property" located in Yankee springs Township, Barry County. . Michigan, more fully described as follows: LOT 70 OF PARKERS LAKEWOOD PLATACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF.. AND THE NORTH 20 FEET OF LOT 72 OF SAIDPARKERS LAKEWOOD PLAT NO. 1 ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF. ALL BEING PART OF THE NORTHEAST SECTION 30. TOWN 3 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST. ALSO GRANTING THE RIGHT OF INGRESS AND EGRESS OVER PRIVATE ROADWAY FROM PUBLIC HIGHWAY/: AS NOW LAID OUT TO AND FROM THESE LOTS • WITH OTHER LOT OWNERS AND ALSO OVER . PASSWAY LOT NO. 77 TO THE SHORE OF GUN LAKE. Parcel No. 08-16-160-070-00 f' By the 26th day of March. 2020. to assert any mtorst in and to the above desenbed property.’ If Defendants fail to do so that shall conhtute a default in the above entitlted matter and on the 27th day of March. 2020, at 9 00 o’clock in the forenoon this Court shall take proofs and shall terminate whatever interest the Unknown Heirs of John Lee Corsiglia and/or Angela Gombar, John. Corsiglia, James Corsiglia, Jeremy Corsig.'la and/o(, other unknown heirs of John V. Corsiglia, Defendant. named herein, and/or all other Defendant's named herein who may be unable to bo served, that the above named Defendants may have in and to the above described property unless a Notice of.i Interest in the real property orunless Defendants or,, their representative appear on that date. . Vicky L Alspaugh Drafted by: David H. Tripp (P29290) v.-’ Attorney at Law e 1 202 South Broadway . Hastings. Ml 49058 , (269)945-9585 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act cf 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212.' that the foltow-ng mortgage Will be foreclosed by a sale cf toe mortgaged premises, or seme part of them, at a pubi.c auction sole to the highest bidden for cash or cashier’s check at the p'ace of holding too circuit court m Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM. on February 13. 2020. The amount duo on the" mortgage may be greater on tho day 0* sa'e. Piacnq tho highest b.d at the sa'e does not automatically entit’e the purchaser to free and clear- ownership of toe property. A potential purchaser Is encouraged to’ contact the county register of deeds office cr a title insurance company, either of wh.eh may charge a fea for th»s Information. Name(s) of the mortgagor^): Jordan Ashley Mack, an unmarried woman Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems. Inc., as mortgagee, as nom.nee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns . • Forccios'ng Assignee ijf any): AmenFirst F<nanc.3f : Corporation Date of Mortgage: May 22.2018 Date 0’ Mortgage Peccrd.ng: June 8.20IS Amount claimed duo on date of notce: $86,998 47 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated m City of Hastings, Banry County, Michigan, and described as: Lot(s) 3, B ock 7 cf Kentieid's 2nd Add von to the C;ty of Hastings eccortong to toe Piat thereof reco'cied in Liber 1 of Plats, Page 37 cf Barry County Records Common street addrets (rf any): 722 E Clinton St. Hastings. Ml 49058-2414 r-, The redemption period shall be 6 months from the ’ date of such sale, un'ess determined abandoned in ' accoroance w»th MCL 600.3241 a: cr, if the subject real ‘ property is used for agricultural purposes as defined ' by MCL 600 3240(16). . ; If too property 13 sold at foreclosure sale under : Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961. ! pursuant to MCI 600 3278 lhe borrower wilt be he a respons-nle to toe parson who buys the property at the ! mortgage foreclosure saM or to toe mortgage holder for damagrg the property dur .ng tne redemption period. Attention homeowner |f you are a milrtary server member cn active duty it you' po'.od pt active quv/ has corclt dtfo 'oss than 90 days ago, or if you havo been ordered to active outy, pease contact the attorney for the party foreclosing th* mortgage at tne telephone numbr r.utad in th s notice. Th.s rotice Is from a debt co cctor. Date cf notice: January 16, 2020 Trott Law, PC. 31440 Northwettem Hwy. Suite 145 F arm.ngton Hi Ml 48334 •*-’ (248) 642-2515 135B29 ■ Estate if O'oo M. Kuiphof. Date of B'db. De Vent and Marquarot. PLC 222 W«tApP^ ®' 49058 Page 1<5 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate 135378 .246) 642 2515 1408922 (01-16X02-06) 1 1 j • i • ’ * i3»jZ8b �Wkes avoid slow start at Lansing Christian Brvtt Drcnier The Lakewo^TarW^'5’ team jumped Unvino ChriMia" inl° foi,rlh* place in the (;r * Lansing Activities Conference standing with a 60-50 win at the ho^onhePiigri^ ^y night. Viking head . Chris Dints has been pushing for better st-irts out of his guys and the Vikings manaJ-d to hold an 11-9 lead Lakewood freshman guard Jayce Cusack controls the ball in the offensive end for the Vikings during their GLAC ballgame against Perry Friday at Lakewood High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) after one quarter. and it was back and forth from there until d,e fourth quarter when thc Vikings managed lo nudRe back in front alter trailing 40-37 after three''quarters. Lansing ChriMian is a loU^h dcfenslvc matchup for Us because their best player (senior center Chris Felton) is also 6’8.” Duits said. “Wc have noticed on film that if you get physical and push him off the block then he’ll float around the three-point line. and whcn you’re an unde^zed-team like us that is a perfect place for a 6’8 player to be. We did a great job of doubling him and getting the ball out of his hands and making someone else hit shots. “Offensively, he really changes the game because he’s so |Ong |1C gets to every thing around the basket and had six or eight blocks. Once he got into foul trouble we really hit our stride and handled diem fairly well.” I’he Vikings were outstanding at thc free throw line on the night, especially in the fourth quarter where they knocked down 13 of 17 attempts. The team was 19-of-24 from the line for the night. Jacob Elenbaaswas 12-of-14 for the night at the line and led all scorers with 26 points. He scored 20 in thc second half. “All in all it was a good team-win.” Duits said. Bryant Makley finished with 15 points for thc Vikings, hitting a pair of three pointers. Brady Gawnc his a couple threes too lo f inish with six points. Denn} Sauers hit his first four free throw attempts of lhe fourth quarter, going 4-of-6 in the period, to finish with four points. Jayce Cusack had six points and Brent Sweet three for the Vikings. Lakewood is now 5-7 overall this season and 3-4 in lhe Greater Lansing Activities Conference. The Vikings are back at it in thc GLAC Friday at Olivet, and then will host Maple Valley Tuesday. The Vikings suffered a 48-43 loss to visit­ ing Perry last Friday in GLAC action. Turnovers piled up for thc Vikings as missed shots piled up for lhe Perry guys, but eventually Perry turned an 11-7 lead to a 28-13 halftime edge in the second quarter by knocking down some shots. Duits said he tried to have his guys focus on slowing down Rambler senior center Caleb Leykauf, but he managed to find some space around the basket to score eight points as Perry built its lead in the second quarter. Lakewood battled back to within eight points in the third quarter, and eventually got within five points in thc final minute. Elcnbaas had 14 points and Makley 15 for the Vikings in the loss. Leykauf finished with a team-high 15 for the Ramblers, with guard Brodie Crim adding 14 and CJ King chipping in ten points. Lakewood guard Bryant Makley fires up a jump shot from the left corner during his team’s GLAC match-up with visiting Perry Friday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) League-leading Lakewood bests Lion grapplers in final GLAC dual Perennial league power Lakewxxxi finished off a perfect 5-0 season of Greater lumsing Activities Conference duals with a 61-14 win at Maple Valley Wednesday. [.akewood got pins from Jordan Mclllwain (119 pounds). Keegan VanAlsline (140). Vern Fields (152) and Gavin Vaughn (160) in lhe dual. Kanon Atwell. Kaiden Villanueva. Donavan Pratt. Jon Clack and Grant Clarkson all won for the Vikings against voids in the Lion line-up. The tightest match of the evening was nt 189 pounds where the Vikings’ Allen Shellington pulled out an 8-4 win oxer David Hosack-Frizzell. The Vikings also got a big win from Zachary Gibson at 112 pounds as he bested Matthew Slaght 9-0 in their bout. .Maple Valley’s 14 points came as two-time state medalist Jesse Brumm faced a void in thc line-up al 130 pounds. Gage Ertman scored a 9-0 win over the Vikings’ Ashton Clark al 103, and AJ Raymond beat lhe Vikings' Kyle Pelrie 16-4 at 171 pounds. “Some of the kids got a wake-up call. They thought our conference was going lo be a lot easier lhan what il was.” I^akcwood head coach Tony Harmer said. "We found out other teams were putting in lime as well. For other teams, their goal is lo beat our kids, and in some cases with these smaller schools without a lot of kids that is w hat happens. But that is what makes it fun. Our kids are hungry now. and they go okay, game-one. il is lime to get going.” Lakewood will host the GLAC Finals beginning at noon on Friday. lhe Vikings were back in action Saturday, going 3-1 al their own Lakewood Duals. The Vikings were bested only by the Lowell team that is r.uikcd number one in the slate in Division 2. Uikewood got a couple big wins in the dual with lhe Red Arrows, a 43-16 defeal, none more impressive lhan Vaughn’s 10-2 major decision against William Link in the 160pound bout. Link was a state qualifier in Division 2 a year ago. It was a battle of returning state medalists al 112 pounds, where lhe Vikings’ Gibson scored a 2-0 win over Rainsy Mutschler with a third-period reversal accounting for the only two points. Lakewood had two other 2019 state medal- DK grapplers finish SAC Duals above .500 Delton Kellogg’s varsity wrestling team ' finished off a 5-4 season in Southwestern Athletic Conference duals with a split of its two matches at Coloma last Wednesday. The Panthers will gather w ith the rest of the SAC wrestlers at Lawton Saturday for the league' championship tournament. DK knocked off Watervliet 48-21 at Coloma Wednesday, but fell 48-36 to the host Comets. Vinnie Quick (140 pounds), Pascale Houssenaine (145). Matthias Homolla (160), Alan Rogers (171) and Caden Ferris (285) scored pins for the Delton Kellogg team in the victory over Watervliet. Jayden Orns scored a 10-3 decision at 125 pounds against Watervliet’s Dominick Morrison. Hunter Belew won his 2L5-pound match 3-2 for DK against Don Smith. Joclle White and Charles Young scored wins against voids in lhe Watervliet line-up. Delton Kellogg got pins from Orns (125), Rogers (171), Ferris (285) and Gage Vincent (103) in the dual with Coloma, and forfeit wins from Amon Smith and Belew. The DK wrestlers returned to action Friday, going 2-2 al thc Hopkins duals. The Panthers beat Shelby 50-24 and lhe Hopkins team 54-24. DK fell to Wayland 48-34 and a Thomapple Kellogg ‘B’ team 48-30. Quick, Belew and Ferris were ail 40 at thc tournament. Orns, Rogers and Vincent had three wins apiece. Wayland was 4-0 at the tournament, scor­ ing a 51-22 win over thc *B’ team from Thomapple Kellogg. ists score wins over the Red Arrows. Clack lusted Grant Pratt 7-3 in the 215-pound match and Clarkson scored a 5-0 win over Keigan Nugent at 285 pounds. Lakewood also had Vem Fields earn an 8-1 win over Gabe Hare at 152 pounds. The rest of lhe day included a 49-30 win for Lakewood over East Kentwood, a 46-28 win over Fowlerville and a 66-15 win over Webberville. Gibson. Fields, Clack and Clarkson were all 4-0 at the tournament. score §©@©®di w ©wc OK Rarely missing helped the Martin girls score a 25-point victory' over lhe Delton Kellogg varsity basketball team Tuesday in a Southwestern Athletic Conference crossover contest at DKHS. l he two teams were separated by just four points when they met at Martin back in December. The Clippers knocked dow n nine of their first ten shots Tuesday and were 60 percent from the floor for the night in a 58-33 win. The Delton Kellogg girls meanwhile strug­ gled mightily on lhe offensive end. hitting just 29 percent of their field goal attempts and not always getting lhe best shots off. DK turned the ball over 18 times, and only managed five assists all game. “We really have to improve our effort on lhe offensive end by putting ourselves in bet­ ter positions to shoot the ball.” DK head coach Mike Mohn said. “Way too much standing around watching a teammate with the ball. Our movement off the ball is really stagnant right now.” Erin Kaptcyn did w hat she could to lead the Panthers on the offensive end. She finished with 14 points, six rebounds, and an assist and a steal. “She is really playing well right now and getting to the foul line has been a big step for her - 37 times in the hist three games shooting at a much improved 68 percent.” Mohn said of Kapteyn. The Delton Kellogg girls are 7-7 overall this season and 3-4 in lhe SAC Valley. I he TK ladies 3-3 in Gold . _Oi, ------------ - ...puio a move on uaiesburg-Augusta’s Delany Dack in the post during lhe Panthers' win over visiting Rams Friday at DKHS. (Photo by Perry Hardin) after loss to Pioneers The Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls' has kelbail team finished oft the first half ol the OK Gold Conference schedule with a 3.3 record. The East Grand Rapids girls, ranked sev­ enth in the state in Division I. scored a 72-53 win over the IK ladies in Middleville Friday to finish off the first swing through lhe con ference. "We arc really just looking at continuing to improve and getting better each day.” IK head coach Ross Uimbit/ sard of getting .start­ ed on lhe second shot m the conference foes. “Our focus k to finish strong as wc head into the second time through our conference schedule.” Thc’IK ladies travel lo Wayland Friday lor lheir second match-up with the Wildcats. Wayland scored a fivc-pomi win in Middles ille early last month. Paige VanStee led IK with 19 jxsinls. five rebounds and two ‘teals in the loss lo thc vis­ iting Pioneers last week. Corrip Replogic added nine points and five rebounds for I K. Tyah Jelt’eison had a team-high seven rebounds. Guards Rcplogle and Grade De Went had three assists apiece. Hailey Campbell finished with eight points. Dolton Kelirx ,rifd J°siG Lyons works againJ, 99 Q,,a horn Rams near mid-co^ 9ross “e P«",hW8'SAC ^lloy victory 0*u"^ visiting GalesburgAugusta giX®r,! .photo by Perry Hardin) 9 s Fnday- (r Panthers return to Valley Division play at Hackett Catholic Prep Friday. I he Panthers came out on lop in their last SAC Valley ballgame, last Friday, 46-34 over visiting Galesburg-Augusta on Winterfest night at DKHS. Holly McManus led DK with 15 points and five assists in thc win. Kapteyn was 9-ot-l2 from lhe free throw line and finished with 11 points. 11 rebounds and two steals. Eva Fernandez- Villalobos had a career high nine rebounds "and is starling to play some consistent basketball. which will just be a plus tor us,” Mohn said. He was also pleased to sec Abbie Bcver play one of her most efficient games ol the year. Bev er closed thc night with II points, three rebounds, an assist and only three turn­ overs. “Her D has improved so much this season and that has been a pleasant surprise.” Mohn added. DK col live points and live rebounds from Katie Ibbias. “Wc held G-A to just . fouled way loo much in3 shots, bm we just in the second half.’ Mohn said. “They shot 19 free throw.-, in the second halt after we were up 20. lust doesrt t make a lol of sense. We Mopped moving ouv feet and started clutching and crabbing, which led to our 15 touls in the second half ” lhe Panther’s kept moving on the gla>s though, finishing with a 45-29 rebounding edge over the Rams. �rburaday.F8'*^®'80^ , hovs colphrate Winterfest pH P°ys ceieorai^ __ Ait<n Trojans wrestle by EGRI win over I r.meU Hrvlrl rliiak [----to finish Gold duals 5-05-0 I . 1 Uli for TK. besting Fh Kiniwv Kinney 9-5 in m the hk 15The 'Thomapple Kellogg varsity wres f <..uirdav to win .png team finished off a perfect season of pound bout. TK relumed to the mat> ‘ z, ncarl) OK Gold Conference duals by knocking off lhe Fruitport legends Tourn. East Grand Rapids 64-15 in Holland aOpoimsoverrom^W^Xs.^Wednesday. thc invitational nils w'"'- ^^^ ()f Vorest The 'Trojans finish off the conference second with - c i«9 S.Fruitport duals at 5-0 and will look lo capture thc was Hills Northern 2135.SP-' '• 1 Mu,kegon I outright conference championship at the 151. Hesperia 149. Gmn"^ W.5. | -onfcrencc tournament hosted Forest Hills Catholic Central 7) >• I fiastem High School Friday (Feb. 7). Ludington 26 and Green |ligbt The TK team also defeated Zeeland West West. Chivis and Gibson I 68-7 on thc evening. championships for I K • championship Ashton Corson. Hunter Pitsch. Jack West look 'h\28^?' Nickoli Kehrer. I Wnuht, Zack Gibson. Kyron Zocl, Austin Chivis, Arie Idrizi. Matthew Middleton. 1by pinning Ludmgh alld Muskegon Saline's Jason Harbau rtol,ltncou m Jackson l.aloyc. Jake Middleton and Cater Catholic Central s Frank West were all undefeated on the day for 1K. consecutive bouts. n rcc«rd to 253 West opened the dual with East Grand Gibson moved his st. n dcn Cook Rapids by pinning Will Morani in the mid­ with a 5-1 d".Xundchampionship dic'd the second period of their -85-pound from Sparta in the 1 I Un.n 'nmrnell , boul.The win moved the Trojan junior match, after pms ol Salm I heavyweight West’s record to 31-1 this sea­ and Grant's Chaw Mo Uc OIK.ned son, a mark he added to Saturday tn winning Chivis is now 34'-5 ” w ,und semifinals Ms weight class at the Fruitport Legends the tournament in the I F K. S(.l)iell a after receiving.a P«> ^.port's Karl । T°C™ onscored a win againsta 9-0 major d“,s” .locked oil Hespena s Pioneer line-up at 103 pounds ^dne^y, XVK^ 2 0 in lhe ,1,ght Ch!,"'”'O,V | and then TK got pins from Wnght d I s: L­ i & i & ! 1 uoiiogg sen’or Jordan Ren . Delton i a dun^ during his team’s throws doW ictory over GalesburgSAC Val,e^ ^jnterlest night al DKHS Au9U5^Pholo by pe,TV H^din) Friday. Matthew Middleton at '4^^e i .rs didn't disappoint the Pan,'iwj al Delton Kellogg High Wintedest c School Vrtd. y «.cpogp varsity boys’ basketpounds placed third. The Delt°n .jm 3-4 in the Southwcsterr UPjdrizi had the tightest victory of the dual ball wan'\n'pr'nCc ya||c> Division with i Athletic f °n v-lSftinu Galesburg-Augusta. 59.20 win <*<•* .. oUl a |ot of energy ••We re a ) ‘ sboWed jn the score,” Delum and eflort an cft Jason Howland said. 1 Kellogg hC‘i to wor|. |wrjcr on the told the tcam .. lbe court,because when wc defensive cn lbe opportuniiy to score do it provide xVcUkc t() pukh lhe ball. _ son. and 0-6 m the OK tlu, inotnent on the olfcnsi us lo gel out can g^’ 1. , nft^a^Vlosl’to visi’ing East Grand Brett Bremer i eaSV buckets. , o " The 'o'be tune of :>45-8 and run ei?ortwmked ai SporM Editor The Thomapple Kellogg^'2ing trough J-'" ^ames where we halftime lend for the ;2 -It was one ot our t sonw lx)inls struggled W '^'tid. 'Overall, we were on the board, Thakr,us( wen.n t PO!!;’taspB>udofour^yo-XaS able to get quality R inl|css of our scoring team the Trojans e scoring a 15-poinl falling Friday l«8h’- » defense and held full with °f thC (or lhosc ssbo struggles, we hillf. so we felt festivities and wc East to 20 potnu. m 1 Bul again, atmosphere an g • Iand said. made it out to watch. H<*wi< confident coirung on'" the ball wasn t faHuk• with ,hcir detenthis second ran throng handful of ■ The Pioneer wxre I . up aU ,k a coach Josh Thaler smdWe . that shcrUU11 led the games where we walked aw^ lhc sive effort as well, EG* 1 bR "Lr w^’l’s Johu-s. Aiden McCahill had «' could have £ lislo continue mr>v. ^a^Jen^ngseightgamc P'an'?c'..-earn always improving. ing forward as a team a j sca. Wayland is currently « uo The TK hnvs shOOt fOF SOCOTld WWI . TK boys snuui • । y over Wayland on Friday n^ EoVeXS— —•« “srss^~fttf<ss« ------hv Rams’ delender Carte Delton Kellogg guard‘----------------------------------------------------------- Galesbu^ugusl c tn SAC Valley Delton 8-clU’'fgUaXeUTallrolic Prep m action Friday al llackeu KaV.iuvA70o. z h overall on the sea The DK boys » crossove after falling 59-51 m Martin Tuesday. had six ''■•,7u;7’riL;;„ds"and Sophie Viking cheer at its best at second GLAC jamb©?®® n" vollejKdl player not shvmg Brett Bremer Sports Editor ^PoSi^^e^ve . vided good minutes wllh a ^nus apiece, an Hrctt Bremer lo lhc Brett Bremer put •into the round rounu yet.; The «• ®b *„,i। tn lo having having girls basketball t difference > ‘competitive cheer Man>r g ^tXen the basketball court am The Lakewood var t > sc;ison in ph)sicahty Ixtwecr .|rc learn had its highest SvGrealer the vollcybah c ^ ver acluaUy supp osed to Championship FebJ2. Salunh each round as it Conf(_rencc jamboree of The V.kings we™backiti acU araled by a ne • another. Lansing Ae’;v"‘^ . .lt pcny High 5chool. .bahbs.. lrOm h trying to get a look at a coup Grosse J)e come into con ac^„ : the season W ednes > of (hc lw0 conThC b,ggC we^t 'he third quarter Tuesda r tn-il The Vikirigs found they have crowd came latcm The Vikings haw wo They did sophomore Maradnh lo ference jamborees so'- of7()3 42 Wednesday. Invitational. The Vikings some work to do dfin. night as 11 u j down a shot by O’Gorman sla nfe Mia Judd ;U the basket Flat Rock and Grosse 1Is- • ? renuniscent of one from • . ished behind t lose . There is a chance, Christian sop 14-tcamvanityinvitationa. with a sw mg ’ player on the outside o that the three teams meet IP k all-state voU7hlocked shot attempts on a bas­ net than most bio© regional round of the Division j kctball court. svhlsl|ed for her fourth foul menl later this month. five OivisKm 1 a d 2 'cams h^ ^P^ O’Gorman wj. wherc shc was and senior Kately n Lakewood built . owr;. flo half, but a little spell t Jul Pilgrims to pulU > Bontrag the third 9“^':' . suf2._ and ev the Lansing C'.’"*'*?" c.^a Ellis th was another'nple hy Cayia^ .7 the score. Judd hit , in the pilgrims with a intnu jg.3 PUtd%" dmg into Pilgrims leu . quarter. . aie offe More solid work sparked the Vtkmg? couple of ‘’«‘n^X a bucke Ellie Possehnassis (lw get her team «.'*,n ‘^..pointe later Lang bun.. J() Vikings back >n( ”'rt i)( !bc n Ukewwid led the res and had to hu. hcr teammates, greeted by sm ;dso dealt all Flat Rock finished w ith a score -*>• Junior pom e le for lhe ljlkcsvood varwith some tool t Tuesday, 'he shy .tnaged to score a 55-48 wm — OAqqehn gets oft the rtA-irk in round tnre Vikings still »' ‘ p-^rims lo improve lhetr Lakewoods EM ? by Lansing a lead to as many as eig I Xnd of 301.21L h.rdill the overall standover the visitm.-• .;iflcs Conference record quarter. (b.,t bc V16.90 points in round three to move in front . Greater l.ansUL . b overall on the floor lo dis"lp, „ noniraqst dutmg H'e vlX and though of the Grosse lie girls. Grosse lie finished the to 3-5. Uikewood »Christian's Kale yn ° t AC ballgatne s^ond hal ot^ High School. ^.eourt P-sUte throughou 619.26. Mapk ffth (day with a 29830 in round three. Hat Rock season. . n scored a four-point wui opened lhe meet with a 221.10 m round one 5 A-echangUmsing <- ' mct |n tansing back m belped spark her Kam ’TuesdaL Brett Bremer) and then added a 203.26 m round two when the two lean -lheir goal » ' m l he Vikings were a tick ahead ot the Flat tPh0'° ' ken her a bi. <o get'he December. they had 23 offensive win at a time I '’>in^ nl Rock girls in round one with a score of -In December • second.chance bul they delmi ’ e'J ■ h( 221.30, then scored a 201.12 in round two and reliounds agaim k|||ed us in that last . ••We are uomt, , Pennficm ’ 1 qnli bringing the fire f ' fo .'>96.20 in round three. injury*h,; tevS'od,an^rf^ 2iris\ |K»ints ate rea y d eoacb Kelly Nleints She dtdn t mx t , The top overall score of the day came from one,” I,akevvo< talked about making 53-32 lo^‘^ ;• the Gibraltar Carlson team, a total of 784.6... said Tuesday. ^lBdmg well and boxing out. ^uXKamH'rs.Unreadd he-td of Southgate Anderson 767, Riverview part. dnll ines^4 22 Wyandotte Roosevelt 754.02 and sure we were re 1 h.ve done a gK' beI .otne ot l think they, for । w few dvd xvC \ Carleton Airport 743.08 in lhe top five. A^a WelA finished w 11 ®f \ b wine and b,„ tM,,dlion. ■ sage and ran wi ^ppen” the last two w" e ... wla, ’ TJC:iwm0-'1‘^yi^re’.Uy well" The I-akewood ladies return lo action today missed, but that Kjnvhigh nine rebounds fiVe f°rMao e Valley g11'4 P“ 20 in t«u,ul T’ at the Mason Invitational. ‘u binkdtvis connnf ' (J (or thc the Ramblers. O'Gorman y points and three assist^ lite Maple ,5?Lh<.dn't been for • of 187 40 m ,0''n"dlbree.I'"'a?"odueloa lo go along wm'1 p Svas probably her best and262.80 'Option in ^id have been Coach Meints sum Vik’mv varsity outing >l ’ p the type of athlete that the len-pot"' lbe Lions )(>utlh place on •T think Mara >_ playing aggressively.' nine i; righton’thehee’41’0^’ fot)lMttions m loves contact • s^h mid Lakewood seventh over­ 0^.21/-^-“ ono %e.e Vikings were the o^fttheW points in rou^ '- X%al-ore .. .... na at two tournaments Grapplers have handful ®f cham n)U„d one . patonBomnei .mdJace - Hm^’ ^rations and I ■ “X for roun-f Rte OL^ '’.“ue'm" choreog^P1* wmking 1 arc I o The Barry County Grapplers ,Tssociation J’ wTcX to a couple «f MYWAY Tournaments lust weekend. A trio ot youngsters won their dtvisrons at ,d Grand Valley State the tournament .u)>(ix.nu Luke Klinge it ..lhitah limvcisity. ' 1 1 and Riley Fmrow ,n thc U)Uln.uncnl |K>sted A group took p-' ।. Vicksnur « .?. .r., Association won ? Uvm the 1’J'.V i >s piakc placed see­ ,y , and ” then, ’ oiu Baldetson louT �. orton_ Thp Hastings Banner Thursday rebnnry t-. .'0?0—r,J- * DK starts strong, | ” ** «——.«»• Brett Brrmer * .S/wzfj J );»<• Panthers Here on pace for their best » >••• o' the season and another third-place ;• ?( du Smnhem Michigan Competitive ) \ r CoiUctencc (SMCCC) Final at Delton ■ . J r; High School Saturday until lhe for round three. he Panthers’ back spots look a blow io il\ be.-u and was unable to compete in thc r.n’s ivnnid. The Delton Kellogg girls p> <• what they could suddenly being one j-hc, ••lender down and still managed lo hold i tpo third place in thc overall conference I r.ndmgs v- nh their lifth-placv' finish Saturday. , । ton captured the conference champion‘•’p,: v ith an overall score of 739.4 on the day. |:.’ishing off a sweep of the four conference i in v: if ions. Gobles was the runner-up for |p. fourth time in thc conference this winter. ; ''iiii.’ wish 709.98 points. Delton Kellogg girls were third at the ’nkicncc jamborees and finished fifth 5 onto third in SMCCC af the final with a scone of 620.78. dropping • II II1C (11*411 rv«|M • ■» -X .l rxv lcnc‘ behind While Pigeon and Hartford. DK was right in line with its best round one scores of lhe season Saturday, and lhe tallied a 177.48 in round two - its best performance of the season in that round. "Round two. the skills were very on today.” DK head coach Zoe Reynolds said. "We were lacking a little bit of excitement. but they were all confident." ’I’he DK girls put together solid skills throughout the round: splits, heel-toes, front walk-overs, near-arm cartwheels and herkies. The only time the Panthers have been better in round one this season was the previous Saturday at their own DK Invitational where they scored a 205.9 in round one and had lheir highest overall point total of the season w ith a score of 638.68. ‘‘Round one was good,” Reynolds said. “Il was clean. They were excited, 'l heir jumps were together today. That was good. lheir timing was more on.” Savannah Chilton (right) and Kelsey Campbell (left) and me rest of the Panthers’ round two team do the splits during Saturday’s SMCCC Final at Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) OK •r 1 DK closed oui the meet Saturday with a round three score of 23950. a total that includes a ten-point deduction. The Panthers had one stunt group run through its routine without a flyer as everyone else performed its usual round three choreography. “We have been slowly doing better, and better, and better.*' Reynolds said. "Wc were on track, our goal right now is 650. and we were right on track for that today. Had we not had to go with a hole in round three I think we could have hit that.That is what it is." Lawton had the top score of the day in each of the three rounds. Pie Blue Devils scored 224.50 points in round onc. 211.14 in round two and closed the day with a 304.30 in round three. Gobles just missed the 300-mark in that final round with a score of 29950. I'he Tigers opened thc meet Mtha 213.80 in round one and then added a 196.68, after a ten-point deduction, in round ho. DK had the third Ibt score of thc day in each of those first twcumnds. i j l hc Delton Kellogg lifts were scheduled to head to Portage Central for a meet Saturday and then Portage Northern for one Feb. 14. Those arc lhe Inst two competitions on lhe schedule for the DK girls as they prep for their Feb. 22 Division 4 District Tournament at Bronson. Delton Kellogg flyer Alexis Bolton falls down towards the waiting arms of her stunt during the Panthers’ round three performance at the SMCCC Final at DKHS Saturday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) q:oup DK cheerleader Keirra Halloran and her teammates perform their best round two of the season yet during the SMCCC Final at Delton Kellogg High School Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) xons put together 46-point second half to defeat Comstock The Saxons haven't put back-to-back victo­ ries together yet this season, but that is what they’ll bc try ing to do when they visit Jackson Lumen Christi Friday nightThe Hastings vanity boys’ basketball team improved to 3-8 overall with a 70-38 non-confcrcnce win over visiting Comstock Tuesday at Hastings High School. , It was just an eight-point ballgame al the half, with Hastings up 24-16. “In thc second half, shots started to fall and the team started to loosen up.” Hastings head T r r <^ninr center Evan Murphy rises over Comstock defender Carter Wmtz in -.'hr,^during the Saxons' victory over the visiting Colts Tuesday at Hastings High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) team's non­ conference win“rin9 Colnstock Tuesday ,P"Y Dylan Targgart led the Cardinals with 20 coach Rich Long said. The Saxons had a huge third quarter, led by points and five rebounds. Coldwater also got 12 points from Brandon Downs. II from Kirby Beck’s eight points. He finished with a game-high 25 points. Luca Franzolini and Austin Sanlure and 15 front Ethan Crabtree. Braden Vertalka had big second halves for Crabtree added eight rebounds, three assists and two steals. Hastings as well, scoring nine points each. Hastings finished lhe ballgame with nine different guys in the scoring column. Comstock started the bailgame out in a zone, a defense which has been giving lhe Saxons troubles so far this season. “We missed a lot of go<xl looks early in lhe first quarter, but our defense was able to keep things in check," Long said. "Wc kept plowing through," he added. "Even though we were not making shots we knew wc were getting great looks and just missing.” The Sa.xons are currently 2-6 in lhe lnterstaie-8 Athletic Conference this season, one of those two wins came in December against Jackson Lumen Christi. The Saxons* other 1-8 match-up in December was against the Coldwater team that earned its second victory of the season over the Hastings boys last Friday. 76-56 at Hastings High School. Coldwater held just a 12-11 lead after one quarter, but a 22-8 run in lhe second gave thc Cardinals control of the bailgame. Evan Eastman finished with 18 points and six rebounds in lhe loss tor thc Saxons. Elijah Smith had ten points and Vertalka 11. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads Hastings guard Luca Franzolini knocks down a throe-pointer from lhe left corner during the Saxons’ non-conference victory over visiting Comstock Tuesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) �the 2020 i no Hastings Masungs. Banner banner— — Thursday. inurr.u«j)r, February rvu'uo'/6, u,t 'i’*v Page 19. CLS wins big in Barry County, but both teams happy ' . ■■ t.j ' ~ r— ---------------------------- ------------------------------------------------ --- ——---------------------------------- ** nm———-—n-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Barry County junior Jon Arnold catches a breath as he swims his leg of the 400-yard freestyle relay team s OK Rainbow Tier II Conference dual with visiting Caledonia-Lowell-South Christian in Hastings. ( ' Brett Bremer Sports Editor It isn l very’ often that both teams are so excited after one beats another by more than 60 points. That can happen at the pool though, where competitors are racing themselves and the clock as much as their opposition al times. The Caledonia-Lowell-South Christian (CLS) varsity boys’ swimming and diving team improved its OK Rainbow Conference Tier II record to 3-0 with a 125-61 victory over the host Barry County Barracudas (lhe new name of thc Delton Kellogg-Thomapple Kellogg-Hastings boys’ program) at the Community Education and Recreation Center in Hastings Thursday. Guys are pushing for school records, state cuts and personal records as hard as they’re pushing for team victories. The CLS guys were clearly a step above the Barry’ County guys, winning all 12 events in lhe dual. CLS senior Alexander Pollock set a new personal record by seven tenths of a second in winning the 100-yard breaststroke in 1 minute .128 seconds Thursday, finishing a tenth of a second off thc Division 1 State Meet qualifying time. He has already qualified for the state finals in the 50-yard freestyle, a race he won in 23j09 seconds Thursday. ’Hv. was one of four CLS guys to win two individual races. Fellow senior Emmet Schmehling won the 200-yard freestyle in 1:53.65 and the 500-yard freestyle in 5:14.90. Sophomore'Zach Logan won thc 100-yard freestyle for thc\ikings in 50.91 before tak­ ing the 100-yard backstroke in 59.97. Junior Alexander Le won the 200-yard individual medley in 2:08.89 and added a winning time of 5722 seconds in the 100-yard butterfly by out-touching Barry County’s Sam Randall at the finish. Randall was the runner-up in an outstanding time of his own at 57.80. CLS head coach Trcnten Babcock was happy with how all of his guys swam Thursday, and was able lo point to Le as an example of how his team’s process oriented work is making guys faster all the time. “Wc had a lot of guys show out tonight,” Babcock said. “Alex Le, a junior, he swam really well, got some PRs. He’s been putting in lhe work, especially on streamlines and doing lhe little things right, like working on fast turns, working on improving in his tech­ nique for his backstroke. It showed in his IM and his butterfly down the stretch. We’ve been working on our finishes. He touched a guy out in our 100-fly that showed to me he has put in the requisite work, the time and effort.” While CI>$ sophomore Ty Dykhouse was thc runner-up to Pollock with a time of 2430 in the 50-yand freestyle, one of thc highlights of the night for the Barry County boys junior Jon Arnold’s finish in the race. He was third in 24.87, the first Barracuda to finish the race in less than 25 seconds this season and a new personal record for /Xmold. ‘‘Wc have been so close the last few meets just hovering at like 25.0,25.1, so 1 told them today, ‘all right guys, today one of you goes under 25 or next week you all swim the but­ terfly,” new Barry County head coach DJ Cochran said. ‘‘So. they had the little bit of extra incentive.” The rest of those freestyle sprinters for Barry County chasing that mark this season have been freshman Jack Kensington and junior Britton Stevens, who didn’t compete in the 50 free Thursday. “That has been something wc randomly stumbled into,” Cochran said. “We call them our hJxk cap gang, because they all wear justsolid black caps. If you watch them swim they’re all in a line with each other. The first meet of the season we were just trying to find events for some of the kids, because Jack is a freshman in there, Britton it is his first year back swimming after taking a year off playing basketball last year, and that first race they just went 1-2-3 right in a line with each other, so we have just been sticking with it. They’re in a lane together every practice, so the three of them are just constantly pushing each other. They’ve been betting back and forth who is going to take that top spot.” Having guys like Pollock and Dykhouse to chase certainly helped Arnold Thursday too. ’There was some good competition out there today, /\mold said. “So me and Jack Kensington knew that we could see what wc could do with them and put up some pretty good times. I was happy with mine.” “That was my PR in that race. There were a bunch of us who had done it (finished a 50-frec in less than 25 seconds), but done it in relays, so it hadn’t officially counted yet I think we all wanted to bc the first one to go but honestly at this point I think we were all so fed up with just barely getting there we just wanted to see somebody doing it. I would have been happy with Jack or Britton doine it also, and I think they’ll get there soon ” Kensington did best that 25-second mile­ stone as the Bany County boys returned to ! •" ’."'iMw at the end of his y Brett Bremer) Barry County junior Britton Stevens completes his first turn in the 100-yard backstroke during the Barracudas’ conference dual with Caledonia-Lowell-South Christian Thursday at the CERC in Hastings. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Barracuda diver Gram Price reaches down towards the water at the end of a dive Thursday during his team's dual with visiting Caledonia-Lowell-South Christian at the CERC in Hastings. (Photo by Brett Bremer) action Saturday at thc Ottawa Hills Invitational, placing fourth in the 50-frce in 24.83 seconds. Pollock and Dykhouse led off CLS’s victo­ ry in the 200-yard medley relay to open the night. They joined Ethan Arendsen and Logan for a time of 1:42.33 in the race. That first event followed a moment of silence for Thomapple Kellogg junior Lydia Cole, who lost her months long battle with cancer just after midnight Thursday morning. Cole was a member of thc Delton KelloggThomapplc Kellogg-Hastings varsity girls’ swimming and diving team for three years. A few of her teammates were on hand, taking their usual place helping out on the bulkhead, wearing their purple Team Lydia shirts that were a part of the girls’ program’s annual cancer awareness meet in the fall. CLS guys went on to win all three relay races. Schmehling, Logan, Mason Stanley and Zach Burghgracf won the 200-yard free­ style relay in 1:3752 and the team of Le, Burghgracf, Arendsen and Pollock won the 400-yard freestyle relay in 3:35.91. CLS senior Logan Morse won the diving competition with 18935 points, with Barry County junior Gram Price second with a score of 179.40. Barry County had the second, third and fourth place finishers in the event, with junior Blake Sheldon less than half a point behind Price in third place. “I’m happy with it,” Babcock said of his team’s progress so far this winter. “Our team is doing pretty well this year. Honestly, they’re working hard. They come in every’ day and put in the work. We have been working on being process oriented, working on pro­ cess-based goals like getting belter at being good in practice, focusing on certain tech­ nique things in practice and then focusing on whai we can control at meets. I think it has been paying dividends and the kids are buying in.” Babcock is in his second season leading the CLS program. The boys are the defending Tier II champions. Cochran is a firsl-year head coach, but is no newcomer to lhe league. He spent lhe past couple seasons as an assistant with the Ottawa Hills program. He was intrigued to gel lhe chance to lead a program of his own when he learned at the conference meet a year ago that DK-TK-HHS’s long-time coach Tyler Bultema was retiring. ? ‘‘I applied for it, and it was lhe most nerve-wracking interview of my life with three different athletic directors, six different parents, you’ve got the boosters on there,” Cochran said. “Every body is going on down the line asking you questions.” ' One of thc first things he did with the guys was to work out a new name for the program as a whole, with the coach and many of his swimmers happy to build a new identity and not have to spend so much time rattling off the three-school, co-op title for the team. Arnold was one of thc swimmers happy with that change, and while he certainly was a fan of coach Bultema he is enjoying coach Cochran as well. Arnold said that coach Cochran has brought a new focus on tech­ nique and crispness. Kensington also earned a runner-up time of 54.25 in the 100-yard freestyle Saturday, but he wasn’t the only Barracuda to have some success at Ottawa Hills Saturday. Price won the diving competition for their team with a score of 361.85 points. Randall won the 100yard butterfly in 58.92 seconds, and had a runner-up time of 1:03.35 in the 100 back­ stroke. Tuokkola took the 500-yard freestyle in 5:28.10. Barnard was the runner-up in the 100-yard breaststroke in 1:12.15. Kensington, Riuidall. Arnold and Tuokkola closed out the invitational with a runner-up time of 3:36.91 in the 400-yard freestyle relay, finishing behind only the host Bengali in the race. Tough competition for TK Lions team up again ladies at LMCCOA Invite with Vikings in Hoops ten Division 2 squads that were a partofthe Lake Michigan Competitive Cheer■OHtctals Association Invitational hosted b> “ were 23 ’U com- • Saturday and ten Division 2 schools. pctmgSatu y» onfy onc among Portage Northsn )f Djvjsion , the ten that w P the Trojans District ■lournamenttoteev.y(; 2y ’“d the ^SespUced otte spot better than Ihc TK ladies 5>a'u'<J^|le Djvisioll 2 chantMona Shores t oveJaI| score pionship at the . was second with of 768.96. Cedar SpnnB ()f Hi| s 623 ,2 1 n7M Kenowa Hills 735.0 . Northern -773 «4 Thomapple Portage Northern 7-j)j||s Ccnl,al Kellogg 689||7^9 jg, Forest Hills Eastern 689.18,1^’* ^Vjew 60K (’6i!WiO.68 and N°rthV* .a Mona Shores tn Cedar Spring Q 8Q ,)Ut lhe Sailors round edged out the Red Hawks 22056 to 220 Vt in round two. Mona Shores secured its ± with a performance that earned a score ‘ f 317.60 in round three. 'I'he Cedar Sorin f girls scored 31140 points with theirS three routine. round The 'I K ladies scored a 209.80 in 1 one. a 194.78 in round two after a ten "d deduction, and a 285.20 in round thru?0"" 1 lie top three Division I teams BrioE. Hudsonville and Grandville as m’ D3 champions from Paw Paw all „utseo™ Mona Shores at the meet. Brighton had die best score in every round, iZu"! Hudsonville by .68 points going into n three and then besting the Eagles in th • 785.02 to 780.04. GtlndvilleXSth^ DI with an overall score of 776 3? n n Paw piled up 773.82 points to win ito^ team D3 competition. r TK was scheduled to return tn awu . night at Wayland for the third OK Gow{ Green Meet of the season. The Green/GoM finale will be al I KUS Feb. J 2. J for Hope fundraiser Jhe 2020 Hoops forHope event will bring together the Maple valley ;u)j communities over the course of a couple days in February. . , The two schools high school basketball programs are hosting t e' benefit for the Helen DeVos Children’s Ho^P’ aL with events tak­ ing place during the ^ool girls’ basket­ ball games al Maple a. High School and the boys’ games at LaKewood High School Feb. 11. There will als° an all-you-can-eat spaghetti/Alfredo dinner ,n the Maple Valley High School cafeteria on Saturday, Feb. 8, from 2 p.m. until 7 p-h1; The cost to partake in the all-you-can-eat meal is $10 for those 1- ’^'Up, $5 for (lucc to 14-year-olds. and r5 °r those two and under. Maple Valky director Undon Wilkes said they’re A ^>rwnrd to wel­ coming those in tor the Red Cedar League basketball ‘ the school Feb. 8 10 pasta meal. There are also P*u , ’ give guest lhe opportunity to bid on silent auction items at the dinner. With more silent auction packages available during lhe Tuesday evening basket­ ball games as well. The high school basketball teams will be wearing Hoops for Hope T-shirts featuring lhe 2020 logo design during warm-ups. and any­ one else may purchase the shirts at the basket­ ball games or in advance al Maple \alley Pharmacy. The cost is $10 for a T-shirt, with 2x and 3x sizes $13 each. Game entrance fees arc not included in thc T-shirt price. Those in the area can also participate by purchasing a heart that will hang in (he gym on game night for $1, and filling the heart with a special name or note. The hearts can be purchased at the bailgame, at lhe Maple Valley Jr/Sr High School office or at Maple Valley Pharmacy. Wilkes said there will soon bc a stu­ dent-made video about lhe event on the Maple Valley athletics website: nwplevalleylions com. The Maple Valley JV and varsity boys' and girls’ basketball teams will wear the 2020 Hoops for Hope logo during warm­ ups for their contests with Lakewood Feb. 11, as the two schools team up to raise money for a good cause again. Proceeds from the Feb. 8 all-you-can-eat spaghetti/ Alfredo dinner at Maple Valley* High School and the basketball fundraisers during games at MVHS and Lakewood High School Feb. 11 will be donated to the DeVos Children’s Hospital. �Saxons fourth in 1-8 as they prepfor tournament at HHS The Hastings varsity wrestling team celebrates with ils runner-up trophy after going 4-1 in duals Saturday at the Ovid-Elsie Marauder Team Tournament. The Saxons bested Ithaca. Owosso. Corunna and Ovid-Elsie after an opening round loss to the Charlotte Orioles. Hastings 130 pounder Mason Denton rolls Parma Western’s Mark Maull III towards his back during their teams’ lnterstate-8 Athletic Conference dual Wednesday at Hastings High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The ImcrsMie-S Athletic Conference wres­ tling championships will be decided Saturday •H Hastings High School I I.Mings varsity wrestling team finished off a 4-3 season of 1-8 duals falling to visiting Parma Western 49-25 last Wednesday. I he dual got off to an exciting start for the Saxons, with Hastings guys criming pins in three of the first five bouts. Robby Slaughter opened the dual for Hastings by pinning Parma Western's Gage Parker with 20 sec­ onds left on the third-period clock in the 140pound match. Gabe Trick earned a pin against Parma Western’s Noah Brown in the middle of (he 152-pound match and Tyler Dull stuck Adam Pariseau early in the second period of lheir 171-pound contest for lhe Saxons. v? Hastings had an 18-9 lead in the dual Suforc lhe Panthers rattled off five consecuJrte pins in the 189-pound. 215. 285. 103 and T(2 matches. Parma Western lacked on a injijor decision al 119 and its seventh pin of The evening at 125 pounds to seal the victory. r-.;.Mason Denton and Griffin Seeber closed ejJt thc night with wins for the Saxons. Denton scored a 5-0 decision in a 130-pound match with Mark Maul III. Seeber also shut put his toe. earning an H-0 decision at 135 pounds against Brayden Wahtola. ’./.Slaughter’s win to open lhe dual was his enth victory in lhe second lnter.state-8 /Vldefic Conference competitions so far this season for lhe Saxons. He followed that win jip by being one of three undefeated wrestlers Saturday as the Saxons took part in Ovidflsie’s Marauder Team Invitational >■'-1 hr Hastings team was second to Charlotte at the dual tournament, falling 45-33 in a tight jiual w ith the Orioles.The Saxons scored wins over Corunna. Ithaca, Ovid-Elsie and Owosso the day. The Saxons and Orioles met in the day’s first round. w ith the Hastings grapplers falling in a 27-0 hole through the first five weight classes of a dual that started at 103 pounds. Slaughter. Trick. Dull and Jackson Dubois had all scored pins for the Saxons in the dual with Charlotte. Teammate Carter Smith picked up three points fo lhe team with a 7-5 decision at 17! pounds thanks to a double-leg take down on the whistle for lhe w in. The Saxons upset Coronna 42-39, in one ot the closest matches of the day in lhe fourth round of action, when Shane Dillon fought off a pin and lost a close 9-11 decision in the final match against the Cavalier 119-pounder Gabe Selbus. Denton, Slaughter. Trick, and Dull picked up pins for Hastings and teammates Zach Chipman. Miller and Dubois won on voids. In round two. the Saxon team defeated Owosso 65-15. Dillon Neal and Cohen Smith won on voids for the Saxons. Denton had a 17-2 technical fall. Dillon. Slaughter, Griffin Seeber. Trick. Payton Miller and Tyler Oliver all had pins for Hastings. The Saxon w restlers faced home team Ovid Elsie in the third round, and defeated thc Marauders 48-36. Slaughter.Trick. Oliver and Dubois all picked up pins for the team: w hile Dillon. Cohen Smith, Malt Thompson. Miller and Ethan Bennet won on voids. In the final matchup, the Saxons defeated Ithaca 54-30. Saxon wrestlers picking up pins were Neal. Cohen Smith, Denton. .Slaughter. Trick and Elias Sanchez. Chipman .Thompson, Miller and Dull earned wins against voids in the Ithaca line-up. T? Custom Cards I Let the professionals at Printing Plus customize your • Thank You Cards • Note Cards • Valentines ()<<♦ l>‘ lit» is n < 1 \J^ (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00 - 5:30 Tho Saxons’ Griffin Seeber works on top of Parma Western’s Brayden Wahtola during their 135-pound match Wednesday at Hastings High School. Seeber scored a 10-0 major decision to close out the dual, which the Panthers won 49 -25. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Saxon girls keep things closer with Cardinals Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Saxons are looking to measure them­ selves based on their improvement compared to their opponents the second time through the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference schedule. There were gootf signs for the Hastings varsity girls' basketball team in its second match-up with Coldwater Friday night. The Cardinals look a 56-41 victory at Hastings High School, a solid improvement for the Saxons who fell by 40 points to the Coldwater girls in December. ‘•We played Coldwater much better the sec­ ond time through than we did the first time through.” Saxon head coach Mike Engle said, “which is a conip|inienl to our young team and how- hard they work al practice each day." The Saxons were down just eight points at the half. 27-19. The Cardinals stretched their lead to 14 points by ||w end of the third quar­ ter, but the Saxons were back w ithin nine for a bit in the fourth mnrtcr before Coldwater pulled away in the Cn7 Macy Winvgar |eJ all scnrvrs wi,h 25 points, knocking d0Wn foUr three-pointers for the Saxons. She a|So |13d sK rebounds and four steals. Allison Iced had 1 terun bigh three assists lor Hastings, but ^.r nlOst important work was dune on the oi|r.r end of the fiwr. It was her responsibility to ehase around the Cardinals’ Central Michigan University­ bound senior CiUj fi rbtrec. Crabtree fin­ ished with 24 b‘jt couch Engle was pleased with Tecd\ ' ffmmance. It i< not easy for any suphn,TK‘c |0 draw (hat kind of defensive assignment “(Teed) is very tis our fastest play­ er. and she has .fUcndou> endurance " Engle said. as a sophomore, and where she coin' -. to impioxe is delcnsive positioniini \u .r,c more basketball she plays at the Varshv >lie wil1 fcI bc"er •‘nd better at def^/^. positioning and lech nique. When you add that to her athletic abil­ ity, she is on track to become a really high-lev­ el varsity defender." The Saxons shot free throws better than they had recently in the loss, hitting 9-of-l4 attempts. The Saxons return to 1-8 action at Jackson Lumen Christi Friday. It was the offensive end of the floor where the Hastings girls had a lough time in a non-conference ballgame at Charlotte Tuesday. The Orioles downed the Saxons 56-25, limiting them to just seven points in the first half. Winegar finished with seven points and Brook Youngs had seven as well for the Saxons. lhe Saxons were solid at the free throw line again, going 12-of-l7 at lhe stripe, bul they .struggled in lhe flow of the offense to put the ball in the basket. “Tuesday night’s game against Charlotte was a match up challenge for us in that Charlotte plays eight seniors who have been playing together since elementary school,” Engle said. “They play well as a team and were patient with the hall and had very bal­ anced scoring. “l he bigger challenge for us was that they threw multiple zone defense at us and our young team shot very poorly in the first half and was often delayed in reacting to or recog­ nizing lhe different zone defenses Charlotte was playing against us." . lhe Orioles slipped from a 3-2 zone to a 2-3 zone horn time to time, adding a 1-2-2 half court trap and a 1-2 2 full-court press here and there as well, swapping roughly every three possessions. 1 he Saxons lali to 0 13 with lhe loss.Tbcy will follow up the irip to Lumen Christi with a home game against Harper Creek Feb. 14. SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE 1 3 JO PM Bop Vanity - Ik v.i C?Xr»tl C3»hc!'c HS 3 30 PM GJrty Virsity Bcn’.-g - Lunen Christi C»tWc HS 4 30 PM Bzp»/ Afe said 1 ■ & Yi K J - V Ser:’ 5 30 P.M Boys fastow BwUttal • bnra CMrt CMWc KS sr-jfMcr.sf KiskCjrez k$ 6 (Ci PM v-sty - •> ng - G’' Rk U ..v HS 6OOPMG/3 l-'< l> r C-.fo 7A3 PM B75 J?, varsity Bj5ke!t?3 • lonxn CKhh CjLSc^ HS Ifcrw Hmx Av'-y ul 3, Hone c CO PM £rts V;nty R i > । -; 1/ sn Oci C.Tc-; HS 7 30 PM Bj ,-i V: \ty fo ‘ • L- ran Ctttf : 15 SAHWl.HWW 6 9 W AM Boyv jun-or V2n«ty Wrwfitog • I B Iwbhanal hone - • AM CM ■ Of, • >> • I1• 11W AM Bcjyt Vjrr.ty WasUnj 15 8 H.v,t MWGJW.FtTrU’W 10 300 PM BapSc»W;B 3 TO PM t rts Varsity Ban mg ScSwH J;? ‘ V F'.-jB - v •:? ■. ».;.th-;i & Her» Honne ; .70 PMGuts 7m 0 Bi-A-ttufl -R.W School 3? rv V ■, ch 3 r<• ■ - nW : J • \ > ix.v; As\ B.-? $<> . .. i ••• • .30 F'/ G i!> 7th A Brv. S»H • R a Mxjtfe $e^oi HCW : ■ 1 flBTOY n 3- T; PM 8(74 Va;^ty He A<. q • F irp« Cn ;•* J'TO PM Gtdt Vanity p..:?.' -.j. CiiHi KS U) FM Bcy$ Schjot «fO PM 8.7S Unsay S*. nr Cr-Si ■ |W;j ftgh C.n’.'G. : .)<rit.rc3,t V3 4JO rM Giris pm & F.cV.cr i]. Hrper v.j 530 PM C..-4 FiwNraa B.nl CrcA HS 5.30 FM G ftS A t. Hjfpir Crcr4 M5 s -••VC-UI.V.B.-.. . Cf-AVc ;.r\ 'rZ f< :'K ° ’ • •1 Mf • 7 W PM Grfc jw. 't Van FrAstM • H«per Oti HS » h-xw .... . Hom Hem ttaw now AaJJ Mr HC-^ •® $9T' 24 HOUR I 384 Haynes Loop Dr., Hastings TOWING 269-945-7777 ♦AUTO BODY REPAIR • MECHANICAL REPA.R . TIRE ^3 . Auturmrtfte* V ^\OKIVY . � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-02-13.pdf e01dd75e4fa6a05cea3d0d70a43e1fcc PDF Text Text City OKs $9.5 million for plant project The imp^^nce of common^ dialogue See Story on Page 3 See Page 4 Trio of Saxons capture 1-8 championships See Story on Page 15 804879110187 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 ANNER CAR-RI LOT-C005 Rjchafd Hemcrtng 42lNTaHeeDr Hastngs Ml 49058-113 9 47 00 AM ThUrsday^^X^2020 VOLUME 167, No. 7 PRICE 75C Harding’s moves in to Middleville Marketplace acquisition to take effect Tuesday Jail forum tonight, next Tuesday I I The public is invited to participate in discussions hosted by the Barry’ County Board of Commissioners tonight and next Tbesday. TowerPinkster of Kalamazoo will facil­ itate these discussions. The topics will be the current use and condition of the Barry County' Jail and Sheriff’s Office, and the current use and condition of the Commission on Aging facility in Hastings. Information will be shared and public feedback and input is invited. A potential millage election in August 2020 also will be considered. The meeting tonight. Feb. 13, will start; at 7 p.m. al Johnstown Township Hall, 13641 S. M-37 Highway. The next meeting will be 7 p.m.Tuesday. Feb. 18, at Thomapp’e Kellogg Middle School, Room 1616, 10375 Green Lake Road, in Middleville. P I 1: Questions? Please call the Barry County § Administration Office at (269) 945-1284. | A quorum of the Board of Commissioners ;. may be present. I Volunteer Center : selling balloons I Friday The Barry County United Way and Volunteer Center w ill host its annual “Have a Heart” balloon fundraiser at State ' Grounds Coffee House, 108 E. State St., in ! Hastings on Friday, Feb. 14. A Valentine-themed balloon weighted I with a small bag of freshly baked cookies | and coupons from local businesses will be available for $5 each from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. This is the only fundraiser the Volunteer I Center holds, and all proceeds benefit the I Volunteer Center endowment fund as the center strives to create a better Barry I County for everyone through volunteer| ism. I ; Former White House photographer to • speak here Mary Dailey Brown, a staff photogra­ I pher who served under bolh presidents . Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan, will speak and show pictures about her person­ al experiences in India and Pakistan. Her presentation will be 1:30-2 p.ni. Tuesday, Feb. 18. in the upstairs confer­ ence room at Hastings Public Library. Afterward, attendees are welcome to stay for a discussion of the current IndiaPakistan situation during a Great Decisions meeting from 2 to 3:30 pm. (Great Decisions is a group that studies and dis­ cusses foreign policy issues.) Brown is the co-founder and CEO ol SowHope.Org. a 5OI(c)3 multi-national, charitable, non government organization dedicated to inspiring impoverished women around the world. . Over tlw past 35 years, she has visited and traveled to more' than 60 countries and has been involved personally and voca­ tionally with the p<x)f. In addition, she has ted more than 130 volunteer teams to 38 countries. Breakfast will highlight health department The next Community Breakfast FebL J 9, tekxi District Health Department. The local health department, a nationnb y accredited public health service agen^ • Hany and Eaton counties, is charged See NEWS BRIEFS, page 5 Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Middleville Marketplace grocery store on M-37 is getting new owners - and a new name familiar to many West Michigan shop­ pers. Plainwell-based Harding’s Market.s-West Inc. has acquired the store at 4650 M-37 from Ralph Fahner and Ransom Leppink. who had owned the grocery for the past 20 years. As of Tuesday, the store will be rebranded under the Harding’s Markets name. “It was just time," Fahner said of the deci­ sion to sell Middleville Marketplace. “The village, the surrounding area, all our custom­ ers, they deserve the best. They’ve been very loyal to us. We needed to rind somebody that had more resources and more marketing and merchandising capabilities. They’re a multi­ store owner group versus us being a single store.” Andrew Deniston, who will be the new store director under the Harding’s brand, has already begun to meet with employees to work on the transition. “Il seems like a great community - very close-knit,” Deniston said. “Obviously, com­ munity is important to us. We’re a small, hometown grocery store. We’re looking for­ ward to getting to know the people here and grow with them." Deniston comes to Middleville from the Harding’s Galesburg market, where he hud been assistant store director the past seven years. In an era of consolidation and increased competition from the likes of Amazon, he said strong attention to serving the customer will set the Dew Harding’s location apart. “We’re still going to be carrying out gro­ ceries. help customers as best we can in the store, [sell] those niche items here and there, make sure we supply what our customers need," Deniston said. “While we arc a chain, each of our stores arc unique and tailored to where we’re at.” 5 *□.; Andrew Deniston will be the new store director when the Middleville Marketplace grocery store becomes a Harding’s Market, effective Tuesday, Feb. 18. He comes from Harding's Galesburg market where he had been assistant store direc­ tor. Harding’s currently operates 26 stores in Southwest Michigan and northern Indiana, employing about 706woi kers.The Middleville Marketplace currently employs 41 workers. “We’ve extended (he offer to hire everyone. I hope every one copes on,” Deniston said. Fahner and Leppr/ hvl purchased what was then Pastoor\Grocery in January 2000 from Lxiuis and Barbara (Pastoor) Veenstra. “When we took over ih 2000, it was just basically the supermarket. There was the pharmacy next door and the floral shop was all connected.” Fahner said. “In 2003. both sides of the strip got added around the store to the south.” Middleville Marketplace itself has under­ gone several renovations over the years. In 2007, a delicatessen and bakery were added. See HARDING'S, page 7 The Huss family: (back row, from left) Wendell, Kelsey, Nathan, (front row) with newborn Gideon, Judah and Genevieve. Hastings family by surprise Taylor Owens Staff Writer Hastings mother Kelsey Huss realized she was going into labor around 5:40 a.m. last Thursday. What she didn’t realize is that. 20 minutes later, she would be giving birth to her son Gideon at home. That hadn’t been the plan. Both Kelsey and her husband, Nathan, had been up much of the night with two of their children, who had the stomach flu. Kelsey was feeling a bit off, too, but since she wasn’t due for another week and a half, she thought she had caught the same bug as the boys. When Kelsey woke up Nathan to tell him she was going into labor, they called her mother to ask her to come over and watch the kids while they went to the hospital. With the inclement weather, they had expected it would lake about 35 minutes for her mother to get there - but there just wasn’t enough time. “About 20 minutes before she walked through the door. we had the baby.” Nathan said. “It jkas really qojck.” “1 really didn’t believe that it was happen­ ing.” Kelsey said. “I basically just told Nathan that he needed to come in and try to catch the baby.” Even that was a surprise, she said. She ended up catching the baby herself. “It was basically instinct.” “Then I held him. and then I was in awe that my body was created by God to do this. And he was healthy. He was perfect.” See DELIVERY, page 2 Hiring underway for Amazon warehouse Grvg Chandler Staff Writer E commerce giant Amazon Inc. started hiring this week to find more than 1,000 full-time employees in advance of the offi­ cial launch of its fulfillment center in Kent County’s Gaines Township. The more than 855.000-ihousand-squarcfoot warehouse is about 6 miles northwest of the Barry County line. It is the fourth fulfill­ ment center in Michigan and the first outside the Detroit area. “We begin hiring fur our new fulfillment centers anywhere between 1 to 2 months prior to launch,” Amazon spokesman Andre Woodson said. At ihe Gaines Township facility, at 4500 68th St. SE. Amazon employees will pick, pack and ship it*05’ such as electronics, books, housewares and toys, to fulfill customers’orders, Woo^n said. Employees will receive a minimum wage of SI5 per hour, he said, with full-time employees receiving benefits such as com­ prehensive health care from Day One, a 401(k) plan with a 50-percent match, and up to 20 weeks paid parental leave. Amazon’s Career Choice program pre-pays 95 percent of tuition for courses in high-demand fields, such as game design and visual communica­ tions. nursing, information technology pro­ gramming and radiology. Ground broken in June 2018 for. the u.uu.,-was ------------------------$150 million facility. The company received an occupancy permit ” *for the ' ’building ” ’last‘ June. . Stale and local officials approved a senes of tax incentives to help lure Amazon to West Michigan. They included a $4 million Michigan Business Performance grant toward construction of the fulfillment center, as well as local lax abatements that will cut the company’s local property and school taxes by 50 percent over a 12-year period. To be considered, job candidates must be IS years or older and have a high school diploma or equivalent. All interested candi-' dates should apply online at http://www.f am.von.com/grandrApidsjobs where they-, can indicate a shift preference and select an., appointment lime to attend an upcoming hiring event and orientation. Shift schedules will vary. Veterans and military spouses are being encouraged to apply. 1 Barry 911 makes biggest system change since ‘93 Taylor Owens Staff Writer After 27 years. Barry County Central Dispatch replaced its computer aided dis­ patch this week. *T hat is the .system that holds the frame­ work of all that we do here: it’s our operating system,’ Director Stephanie Lehman said “ I hat is one of the largest projects you can do in a 911 center.” Dispatch staff lias been using the sartlt. computer-aided dispatch system since 1993 While that system continued 10 be updated and supported, Barry County started looking at other options tor a system in September 2018. 1 They tested nine different systems before deciding on Central Square Professional in March 2019. Barry County Central Dispatch then spent nine months training and preparing to imple­ ment the system, and switched over its servers Tuesday. “With this new’ system, the capabilities and the possibilities for 115 w«re overwhelming," Lehman said. While the diffcrcn.Ces for the dispatch and first responders who *ntcrac( w ith the comput­ er-aided dispatch extensive, Lehman high­ lighted its efficiency and analytical capabili­ ties. The system can store and disseminate information is a l^at can accessed faster and with Retail. she saij. k wj|| help dispatchers Pu 1Jp morc background information while lssistjng first responders and also provide niorc flailed information in their regular repot15, 'llw.se details Ip i|le community see what medical or u issues are most pie valent, and ho* van address them. Barry County hispalch wi|| have a public open how*m 5 (0 7 Tuesday, March 3, to tell l*‘1 J a|\HH i)Je new syslein and the day-io-<^ Elions at the center. On Monday. Director Stephanie Lehman talks to Hastings Rotarians about Batry QOunty Central Dispatch. * jsL I 4 �PaQt 2 - Thursday. Fatxvary 13,2020 - The Hactinps Banner Gun Lake Winterfest returns Saturday ‘.. Karen Tbrko-Ebright rt, Contributing Writer The 38th year of fun and frolic known as Gun Lake Winterfest will bring cold-weather firn Saturday. Feb. 15. ,.a “We’re down to the wire,” Winterfest committee member Monte Baker said of preparation for the annual event at Yankee Springs State Park, 2104 S Briggs Road, Middleville. Most of the activities arc free along with free parking and a trolley at the state park. ... Baker, along with Winterfest committee members Kim Bedford, Rex Roscoe and Liz Roscoe, started planning for this year’s festival in May 2019. With a big event like t))is, there’s a lot of planning and preparation that takes place. The festival debuted Saturday, Jan. 30, 198£ “Gun Lake Businessmen Plan Winter Festival" was the headline. • When Gun Lake native Bedford reflects <m her childhood, she remembers special times when she was about 5 and through elementary school age when crowds were smaller and the venue not so big. »„ “I remember going to Winterfest with my parents when I was a kid,” she said. “Back then, it was held at the state park. There Weren’t any tents, just the stage.” u Bedford, who has served on the Winterfest committee for five years, said the event has changed over the years. . ’The events have evolved, and so has the locationshe said of the return to the state Last year’s Gun Lake Winterfest attracted approximately 3,600 people and raised $4,000 Tor charities, according to the festival board. It lakes about 30 volunteers and more than $20,000 to put this event on, Baker said. Another element that has never changed with Winterfest committees is the final week before the big day, when volunteers and the community continue to lend their support in helping to set up for special events and activities. Setting up is on the agenda this week for Winterfest 2020. Tents are going up this w«k.. . Saturday will start out with the F remans Breakfast at Yankee Springs Fire Station from 7 to 11 a.m. Local firemen w.U «x* up a hearty breakfast of pancakes, eggs and SaU'rbe Polar Dip splashes off at 4 pan. and requires a $25 charge with a T-shirt included. “Remember all you Polar Dippers can get a $5 rebate if you bring any item on our Paws with a Cause’ Wish List. Baker saiL • More information is on the Wmurfest website gunlakewinterfest.com at the tab leading to Polar Dip and sign-up forms. o£ question is always on he min* of many prior to the event: What will the wen her really be like? A second questioniota follows: Has weather ever caused Wintcrfcst to be called off or postponed? “Winterfest has never been cancelled due to weather conditions in the years I ve been involved.” Bedford said. “We’ve had years where it was so cold, the news was advising people not to stay outdoors too long, and we’ve had years where it was warm enough, we didn’t need coats. It’s Michigan in the winter. You never know what you re going to “And for those really cold years, we have heated tents." Youngsters will have the opportunity to decorate cookies, make bracelets and other crafts, plus join in on a variety of games and face painting. A petting zoo and horse-pulled wagon rides are planned. Older kids and adults can enjoy disc golf this year at the first annual Birdie Blizzyd. There is a $5 charge for this event; registration is at http://bit.ly/2uDWNiA. • Five local beer brewers and a local wine vendor will be at the Brew Tent, which has a $5 admission charge and a $2 tasting fee. The Gun Lake Winterfest 2020 itinerary is posted at gunlakewinterfc.st.com and includes the following: 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13, euchre tournament at Wayland VFW Post 7581, 135 S Main St. Wayland. Baskets will be available The polar dip jS a favorite event at Gun Lake Winterfest, for brave souls who run, jump or fall into th y spectators. The 38th annual Gun Lake Winterfest will begin Saturday morning with a pancake breakfast, touowea uy people of all ages. (File photo) to view and purchase tickets as well as 50/50 tickets. The following events we scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 15: 7-11 a.m. Fireman’s Breakfast at Yankee Springs Fire Department, 1425 S. Payne Lake Road, Wayland. 9 a.m.-2:3O p.m. Birdie Blizzard registration and check-in. Birdie Blizzard first tee-off begins at 10 a.m. 10 a.m.-6 p.m tents open at Yankee Springs State Park 2104 S. Briggs Road, Middleville. 10 am. opening ceremony by the Matche-bc-nash-she-wish Band of Pottawatomi with raising of the flag by the Forgotten Eagles immediately following. 10:40 a.m. Gun Lake Idol begins. 10: 50 a.m. OjD5 K race kicks off to open the Brew Tent. 11 a.m. Brew Tent opens. 11: 40 a.m. logo winner presented. arry ISD students thank school board Barry Intermediate School District Board of Education members show off the gifts decorated for them by students to show their appreciation to board members. From left are: Dr. Robert Becker. Deb Hatfield, Sharon Boyle, and Carl Schoessel. Not pictured is board President Elizabeth Matteson, who was absent. • Jessica Courtright Staff Writer __ Barry Intermediate School District students presented the Board of Education with canvas bags decorated by students during the board meeting Tuesday, Feb. 11. Students decorated canvas bags for Barry ISD board members in celebration of School Board Appreciation Month. Teacher Molly Keller, along with four students from the West Learning Center, presented board members vath a canvas decorated with fingerprints of students in all of the Barry ISD classrooms, in addition to the painted tote bags. ’-Each student greeted the board and intro­ duced themselves. The four students from the Vflest Learning Center who presented the gifts uXihe board of education were Therin Drake, A?pc Lynch, Stephen Nagy, and Kay den Saxton. -While handing the canvas to board mem­ bers, Keller said, “We were thinking this could be hung in the board room and then, over the years, we can create a gallery of art­ work created by the students of the Barry ISD.” Board members and Barry ISD Superintendent Richard Franklin agreed that a gallery sounded like a great idea. As Keller handed out the canvas bags, she said, “Like I fold you guys earlier, we are going to do an adopt a classroom. So each classroom was assigned to a board member." . Keller said they are hopeful that the board numbers will be able to visit their adopted classrooms and get to know the students to “see what we are all about on, a daily basis.” Dr. Robert Becker received a bag from Molly Keller’s classroom at the West Learning Center, Deb Hatfield received a bag from Carissa Foster’s classroom at Star Elementary, Sharon Boyle received a bag from the BISD classroom in the Hastings Middle School, and Carl Schoessel received a bag from Casey Gergen’s classroom at Southeastern Elementary School. Although absent, board president Elizabeth Matteson received a bag from Joyce Lee’s Young Adult Program al West Learning Center. J In other business: • The Barry ISD Parent Teacher Organization will be hosting a bowl-a-thon fundraiser from 1 p m. to 2 pan. Friday. Feb. 14, at the Hastings Bowl, 203 E Woodlawn 11 a.m.-12:30 pm., bean bag tournament check-in. 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Polar Dip registration. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. kids crafts and games. At noon, the Magic of Alan Kazman will be featured on stage. Noon-4 pan. wagon rides. Noon-4 p.m. Mary’s Country' Critters and Petting Zoo open up for visitors. cti’vjties for 1 pm. bean bag tournament starts, followed by the last Birdie Blizzard tee-off at 2:45 pm. 4 pm. Polar Dip begins 5 p.m. 50/50 raffle drawing 5-15 p.m. basket raffle drawing. 6 p.m. Winterfest conclusion with lowering of the flag. Judges, commissioners confer on future criminal justice needs Rebecca Pierce Editor Barry County judges and county commissioners told each other they agree on the need for new jail. But proposed changes ahead for the state’s criminal justice system could have an impact on a county jail project, the judges said. And that’s what brought judges and commissioners together Tuesday afternoon in the jury room at the courthouse. Three commissioners - Heather Wing, Vivian Conner and Jon Smelker - met with Chief Judge William Doherty and judges Michael Schipper and Vicky Alspaugh, Court Administrator Ines Straube, County Administrator Michael Brown and Sheriff Dar Leaf. . । { “I’d like one crystal ball to look in, not two or three, and it's not going to happen," Sniilker said to the group. “It’s going to be the best educated guess we can get. “I think we’re all in agreement we need a new jail. “ "No disagreement that the facility is rotting," Doherty said. Since county officials are in agreement on the need for a jail, location and size arc the next questions, Smelker said. Schipper, who has been handling most of the sentencings in the county’s criminal cases, has said impending bail/bond reform would likely reduce jail population. He estimated that, once the reforms are enacted, the county jail population would typically be at around 50 inmates. That’s about 25 to 30 fewer inmates than are being housed now. But some proposals offered for consideration by the county’s hired facilitator, TowerPinkster, envisioned a facility that would house more than 100 inmates. The judges suggested impending statewide reforms be taken into consideration in the county’s plan. During the meeting. Wing praised the county’s law' enforcement and criminal justice systems. “The county does a fantastic job in sentencing,” she said. “I don’t know how much more drastic changes can be made.” But Schipper said that, even in drunken­ driving arrests, the courts may not have the discretion to hold defendants in some cases. “We’re going to be able to hold them until they’re sober,” he said. “Then we’re probably going to have to let them go.” One of the reasons for these proposed reforms is the Michigan Joint Task Force on Jail and Pretrial Incarceration, which was created by an executive order from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer last spring to study Michigan’s jail system and recommend how to improve it. In the order. Whitmer referenced research that indicates incarceration, in many cases, doesn’t increase public .safety and can sometimes worsen it by exacerbating inmates1 mental health problems and uprooting them from jobs and communities. Whitmer directed the task force to seek out jail alternatives and safely reduce jail admissions, lengths of stay and costs as it aligns with research. The nonpartisan, Philadelphia-based Pew Charitable Trusts worked with the group to collect and analyze local jail data to inform the recommendations, along with public testimony from across the state. Schipper said he doesn’t disagree with some the reforms, but there are areas where Michigan laws are weak - some of the weakest in the nation. When it comes to incarceration, “everything’s going down,’’ he said. And that means fewer inmates in jails. Creative sentences and time served on weekends to allow people to keep their jobs also have an impact on the jail population. Leaf pointed to other unexpected factors that could affect jail population, causing it to increase - such as growth in the county. One new manufacturing plant is all it would take, he said. After the meeting Tuesday afternoon. Leaf said comments suggesting a smaller jail were a gut punch’’for his staff. Conner said she had no comment. Molly Keller, on right, helped make the presentation to the board From left are board members Carl Schoessel, Sharon Boyle and Deb Hatfield Ave. in Hastings. • Franklin noted that Barry ISD received an official notice from the Michigan Department of Education from Teri Chapman from the Office of Special Education explaining, “Il’s a letter. It doesn’t say sorry, but it does say, ‘We were incorrect in citing you for performance plan indicator issues in Secondary* Transition.’ They went back and rcchecked the data and determined that we are in compliance and there is no finding." ™.s •» nor related to die Early Childhood Fiscal Monitoring. rrankhn said there i<n’t an update on the Early Childhood F1Sca| Monitoring. He has put in calls the state department of education but has heard nothing back. hr Said the independent audi­ tors did notify him that they woU,d ** sub,n,l‘ mg their reports to the state Department of Education soon. DELIVERY, continued from page “It was crazy, it was exciting, it was - I don’t know,” Nathan said. "It was kind of just done; he was here and everything was OK," Kelsey’s mother arrived and recommended they call an ambulance to have Gideon checked out and take them to the hospital. Dustin Mackellar of Mercy Ambulance has been a paramedic for 15 years; Thursday was only the second time he had helped with a baby delivery. ”A lot of people go their whole career with- out delivering . baby., suid. ci»n cand taMc '"tenancy medical techni­ cian Sam fcllinKCT L ysurc Kelsey and umbir*1 ]WCrC» hcal*hy let Nathan cut the hospital. New deputy takes oath <.. Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf i • - ^in ot. off ice Levi Yonkers of Hastings. The ° S Grs oath of ty commissioners’ meeting YonkorT^9 'n CererT1Qny tOok D. h,s newest deputy, Kellogg Community College and th« Up in Hastings with h T^esday al tho Yonkers accepted a job with th« u^KCC Po,ice academu h?,s He attended return home to Barry Countv ?oHl,sda,e County Sheriff^9^dualing in 2019. Initially, Battle Creek City police ofticer^ Was a police oh bul ,aler d^ded,C (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) reb. 0* ’ and h s slst®Nn-law k W’?r’ his bro^er Isaac is a s a deputy with Barry County. �Tho Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 13, 2020 — Page 3 gi-adj to proceed with plant project City OKs $9-5 million Sas nnah Kaechdc Contributing Writer Bond ordinances and construction con­ tracts. approved Monday by the Hastinp City Council, lay rhe financial foundation for lon^awmted infrastructure improvements. Primary among these was the financing structure for Hastings’ $9.5 million Wastewater Treatment Plant project unanimously approved by the City Council. After moving forward with a consnuction bid at its last meeting, the council reviewed the bond ordinance necessary to finance the project. Tom Colis, managing director at the Ia'v firm of Miller Canfield and the ci tv’s b°nd consultant, reviewed the details and rnswered questions at Monday night’s meeting. This is a series ordinance, so this actually layers on top of rhe existing bond ordinance that the city has in pjacc with respect to its outstanding revenue bonds." Colis explained. The city s wastewater system revenue bond ordinance establishes a financial framework tor the project, determining flow of funds, accounts and how additional bonds can be issued, while the scries ordinance is applied over that to provide another series of bonds lo finance plant improvements. "The ordinance authorizes not to exceed $9.5 million of bonds for the project. That is still a not- to-cxceed number. That number will be finalized and determined by EGLE (Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy),” Colis said. The bonds will be issued as “junior lien,” he said, which eliminates the need for a debt service reserve fund. A debt service reserve fund acts to “set aside principal and interest payments to hold in reserve, so that if you don’t have sufficient revenues to pay the ser­ vice, you would draw’ on the reserve fund.” However, since the slate is buying the bonds, they can be issued as junior lien, tak­ ing away the requirement of a debt service reserve fund, he said. Since this is considered a state program, it will involve drawdown financing. Colis said. The process includes submitting invoices to be repaid, and only paying interest on the money that is drawn. As the contracts arc approved, there will be a 6-percent contingen­ cy built into the contracts. If all the contingen- over, they g*vv J go out and . r do. Hull’s "h> 11 n intermedia ’ J ™1 of order. It's 'nl'fO’ra,n l>roM'. 'nr.. sm-ill I rb‘ the ,S a grant perwnt of the ;1[ and the project’s Io(al .yvund l,’e state will pr‘,v'£ >'he e,iy! ot funds for the wojjj . y kicking in the remaining iundinp ,. To secure P^asreql1^ lh,s program, the co^ p^«ho approve a $ 15,125 proP"5! ,^ring firm4,?cwhl,t• 'hc Grand Rapids ef£is hat w.ll pro­ vide the from the S80P0° City councibnC(V Carey questioned ho* would work. . "They mill do'^.^i, Tom Colis, managing director at the law firm of Miller Canfield and the city’s bond consultant, reviewed the details about the financing structure for the city’s Wastewater Treatment Plant project at a cost not to exceed $9.5 million. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) cy isn’t utilized, payments will only be made on the amount drawn. Colis stated that the goal is to close the bond issue on March 27 and start drawing the funds from the state then. Another infrastructure improvement endorsed by the council Monday is a con­ struction contract for the milling and re-pav­ ing of East Woodlawn Avenue, from Michigan Avenue to the city limit. Matt Gcrgcn, director of public services, updated the council on this second phase, or “the next trunk in that section of this long­ term plan.” he said. Mill Street up to North Michigan Avenue has already been completed as part of the long-term plan. City Manager Jerry Czarnecki added, “You ls .scParn'e I the city. , (^an and Jim e milling process . ln<h and a half to two inches. on the spe­ cific condition of WJ? ’ ^»gcn explained, “and then the depth tn ff Will be put back in.” He added. . , “You’re going 10 a lot of people on diat side of town MPP> ’ }ou get that done this year.” city councl man John Resscguic said. “And I’m going to neara lot less com­ plaints.” .. , In his monthly public service report. Gcrgcn brought more news ol improvements. With the winter storms, snowplowing, salting, and active tree removal citywide, Department of Public Services garage has been busy, he said. “We seem to have a lot of very happy citi­ zens with the removal of dead, diseased, dying and dangerous trees," Gergen noted. "They report these trees throughout the entire year and then this is die time of year that we go and actively do them all." Councilman Don Bowers asked what is done with the removed trees. “Branches go in the woodchipper,” Gergcn replied. “'Hie oilier ones are dragged out to the dump and we have a compost area out there." “Homeowners are offered the wood if they want it,” Czarnecki added. Gergcn also noted that Hubbell, Roth, and Clark are moving forward with design ideas for the Rutland sidewalk. The city’s Department of Public Services is currently out to bid for the mill and overlay of a two-block section of West State Street from Broadway to Jefferson. “It’s in pretty rough shape, so it will be a nice thing to get done in our downtown.” Gcrgcn said. ’Hie city has saved $7,000 in contractor costs through the use of an asphalt hot patch trailer. “The finished product is a lot better from what we have done in the past.” Gergcn said. “Cold patch tends to pop out of die hole, but, because we have the hot patch trailer, it’s not just savings, it’s also a higher quality product when we are finished. In other business, Dan Rcmenap, new superintendent of Hastings Area School System, attended the meeting to introduce himself. “I want to thank you for a great communi­ ty,” Rcmenap said. “A great community, like great schools, are never an accident. It’s usu­ ally a collaboration between many kind-heart­ ed, good-willed people and that’s certainly the case here at Hastings. “I'm here to offer partnership and anything we can do to help one another, he said. In response, city councilman Al Jarvis complimented Remenap’s cell phone ban during the school day at the high school. He also praised the district’s recent increase in recess time for die elementary kids. “I think it was a good move,” Jarvis said. Hastings High School; isolates bedbug case i Tay lor Owens Staff Writer A student at Hastings High School went to a teacher witli insect bites on their arm Tuesday, Hastings High School Principal Teresa Heide said. After checking, the teacher and student determined that the bites might have been from a bedbug. Heide said. “Even though it is unlikely for bedbugs to infest the school. I want to assure you that Hastings High School has conducted an inspection and has planned for treatment, which involves an integrated pest manage­ ment plan.’’ the principal said in a robocall to parents Wednesday. At 4 p.m. Tuesday evening, a pest control .service came mu>-tbe~6chool flyilh a dog pllint involved “a series of problems thauw----trained to detect the scent of bedbugs and havc.to address,” Czanxxii said, noting that their The dog the’scent on a’ ...... eggs. ........ -— o identified ................. lhe problems present no threat to public £staff member’s chair in the studenf* classhealth. room, along with chairs in the library?comThe corrections agreed to are “going to puter lab. office conference room and in the make the operations at our wastewater clothing donation room. treatment plant more efficient,” he added. The student had been to two of those “This is more stayingon top of maintenance, locations recently, but not the others. reporting on time. ... 'There is no harm to All of those areas have since been closed residents. . until pest control services are able treat the “We have a permit that has requirements area on Friday. After the areas are treated, that we have to meet. Jiris is basically them the school will conduct another inspection. (EGLE] telling the ply that we missed "We feel that, if we are going to eradicate meeting some of those requirements. this, we are going to do it the right way,” “There will be more details coming out once it’s been executed.” State order requires city to correct problems at treatment plant ‘ Rebecca'Pierce Editor • ” ’ ' Hastings City Council responded Monday lo a corrective order from the Michigan Department of Environment,Great Lakes and Energy over problems al the city’s wastewater treatment plant. Negotiations between the city and slate over what to do about those problems resulted in a final draft of a proposed administrative consent order. City Manager Jerry Czarnecki told the Banner. The city received that final draft from the state last week. After a brief closed session Monday, the council unanimously authorized Czarnecki to sign (he order. , » Now that the council has OK’d the deal, once the state.agrees to it, it will be binding - and it will become public, he said. But, until the state inks the deal, Czarnecki declined to elaborate on any specific details, including what the cost would be to the city. “We have a corrective order from EGLE that we have to do at the waste water treatment plant.” he said. “What we did for our action (tonight] is for me to sign, then pass on for EGLE to sign. Once it is executed, it will be published and we will have more information.’’ The issues identified by EGLE at the “Some people might think it’s small, but I think if s a big thing." In other matters: I4 • Councilman Don Smith noted, during council comment, that he is “looking forward to having another discussion on the IT (Information Technology), I think that's something we need to talk about with haste.** • A workshop provided information on’a Distributed Antenna System and Small Cell systems. ' • At a noon training program Monday, council members heard a presentation on thd Michigan State Police Southwest Michigan Enforcement Team (SWET). .* • Jure Chief Roger Caris offered his month­ ly report, which included a total of 47 runs in January. • The council passed a resolution to approve the American Cancer Society’s request to hold the Relay for Life in Tyden Park on Friday^ July 31 through Saturday, Aug. 1. • The council approved a request from Hastings Hard and Softball club (formerly SCMYB) to use the city fields. • The council completed a first reading of an ordinance regarding a zoning change for Indian Hills Drive and Jacobs Circle. •. • During the comment period at the end of the meeting, two councilmcn announced their re-election plans: Bill Redman, running for 4th Ward; and Don Bowers, running for 3rd Ward. The next city council meeting will be at> 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24, in the City Hall coun­ cil chambers. • Heide said. •« It is unknown how the bedbugs got into.; the school, she said, but there are a number, of ways it could have happened in a schools of more than 800 students. .s Since one of the locations the dog detect.-y ed a scent was in the clothing donation room, Heide said staff plan to update the protocol for accepting donations. The school also contacted the Barry£; Eaton District Health Department for inform mation on how to deal with the problem. Heide said she talked to the student who had been bitten and a plan with them. The student change; clothes upon arriving at school going home. • The school also provided resoi family on how they can deal and gaveThem a deadline to shqw : had taken steps lo address ' their home. . Heide also talked to the parents of other students in the classroom on the steps they can take. ' “Keeping all students protected and safe, along with communication to our families is our primary goal,” Heide said. •*’ She encouraged families to contact her directly at 269-945-6165 if they have ques­ tions. Makin; ■ n E Never i working ♦ Gitftven '' .... you rweytle V4 Iona your frit nondkrth* Seh^ul.V Food pantry benefits from Super Bowl party Ron Kloosterman and The money was rakSn >Spor,f Ta? *? downtown Hastings present a^.OOO check to Tina u R°nan frighO ®an4,.npr Bowl Party- Around 60 cans nfGd Patrons of Sports Tap during the second annual “Soup tor S’ drive d^n^ertf Tap and Tn-Clor. Inc. to benelit ,he Sp“r Xto prffiT” d°na"°n ' by Kloosterman j „ pickup by callus 8B8-' Consumers En* �'3. 20» -TneHWIny Banner P^. 4 - Tbu-soay. Did you see The importance of community dialogue Snow on the flag | The flag is raised in downtown Vermontville during the ^nerai o Vermontville Township Firefighter Roger Corey Saturday morning. Coredy a|ey Feb. 3, at the age of 65. (Photo by Jack more .han a decade. Without a I Owens) I We're dedicating this space to a pho- I lograph taken by readers or our start I Tnembers that represents Barry County. I if you have a photo to share, please ^end it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, I 735/ N. M-43 Highway. Hastings, mi 149055; or email news@j-adgraphics. I com. Please include information such as .Hyhere and when the photo was taken I who took the photo, and other relevant I or anecdotal information. Scout Week ‘officials’ Banner Feb. 4. 1954 • Members of local Boy Scout troops will attend the city council session Monday night to observe the operation uf ftcir city government, paying particular attention to the ‘positions’lo which they have been appointed as a feature of the Boy Scout Week celebration here. Pictured (front row, from left) are Bruce Douglas, chief of police; Duane Curtis, city engineer. Ulvis Grinvalds. mayor. Chris Kacchele, city clerk: Bill Cook, fire chief: (back) Dase Reynolds and Jerry Jacobs. Firs! Ward aldermen. Ike Snyder and Marvin Hainer; Second Ward; Terry Kurr and Myron Hawkins; Third; and Larry Tebo and Rod Cook, f ourth Ward aidermen. Have you Becky Webb is dedicated to her volunteer work at the Country Chapel United Methodist Church in Dowling. The former Becky Williams grew up in Battle Creek. Following graduation from Lakeview High School in 1982. she attended Kellogg Community College and then Central Michigan University. Webb said she was initially unsure what she would study until learning she could earn a bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation, which she did. She moved to Delaware and began work­ ing for the state parks as a park ranger. She retired as a park superintendent after 28 years with the state park system. She and her husband, John Webb, whom she met in Delaware, have been married for 26 years. They have two daughters: Kelsie, 17, and Carley, 14. who attend school in Delton. Webb and her family moved to Michigan about four years ago. and she initially worked as an activity leader at the Sherman Lake YMCA Outdoor Center in Augusta, leaching campers archery and campfire building. Alter a few years, she suffering a brain aneurysm that hospitalized her for months. She is thankful for every day. “Following the aneurysm. I have a new view on life,” she said, adding that her faith is stronger than ever. Due to trauma to her brain. Webb said she was unable to continue working and still endures dizzy spells and tires quickly. For the past year, she has been volunteer­ ing at the Dowling church. Part of the reason she decided lo volunteer there is because of the support the church provided her and her family while she was hospitalized. Since she began volunteering as a secre­ tary at the church, she has already started pulling her parks and recreation expertise and experience to work to help make lhe church more welcoming to families. One project she worked on this past .sum­ mer was creating a prayer trail through the woods south of the church. The prayer trail is about three-quarters of a mile long and is open to the public year-round She said she hopes families and residents For encouraging people of all ages to get up and enjoy the outdoors and providing family-friendly activities.Becky Webb is this week’s Banner Bright Light. First job: I did not like it. It was working al a funeral home. No, that isnot niy calling. Favorite teacher: Professor Vladck at Central Michigan University. He was my conservation teacher, and! jusl *’ked h*,nBest invention: Motor vehicles because they enable us to travel. Favorite vacation destination: Anywhere with mountains. I Jove to hike. Person I admire: Our pastor at this church. Pastor Rick Foster. He is so compas­ sionate and has such a nice way will* people. Best gift ever received: ’nirec l,Ws: in> life, my family and my faith. After my aneu­ rysm. I had a half percent chance to live, and even if I did live, 1 had a chance of being a vegetable for the remainder of my life. I always joke and say I ain bent, but 1 am not broken. Favorite childhood memory: Camping with my family and going to Disney World. My mom would take Our 1*>P’UP Cttn,Per lo Florida, and we would c-itnpal Disne>’s Iort Wildcni„s Reson "u*ncy World. Becky Webb will get out and enjoy the trail all year. The church’s youth group helped with the project, clearing brush and designing lhe (rail. Her current project is installation of a playground at the church, lo date, the church has raised the $22.(XX) needed to purchase lhe first pair uf (he structure, through grants and donations. The first section was deliv­ ered in December. Webb has been diligently working lo raise the .$ 13,000 needed to pay for playground installation However, the all-inclusive playground, intended to be a community playground open to the public, will take another $175.(XX). The playground and prayer trail are sym­ bolic of Webb's life goals, her calling “lo help people of all ages enjoy and experience the outdoors and the beautiful world that God created.” If I could change one thing: 1 wish IK’°' pie knew that God is red If people knew that there is no need to WorJ invniore. I think it would also fix a lot ‘jn'gs on this earth that are so wrong. Advice for a h| . sCho<)I gnidu»te: Believe in JL .n you believe in Favorite Script,,^... can do all things ‘hfough Christ S,rengtheiis me." Philippians 4:13 ° Why lhe surprise from Barry County commissioners that more residents didn’t turn oui for the two public forums in lhe past three months to discuss lhe possibilities of building a new jail and a new Commission on /Xging building? And why their frustration that it seems to be lhe same group of “naysayers” w'ho’ve been at both meetings? Perhaps lhe people who stayed home were the wiser ones. After all, they’ve spent loo much time hearing politicians talk and realizing that the leaders they elected are nol listening to them. These two public forums, on Nov. 4 and Jan. 22, provide the latest example of the disconnect between communities and their leaders. 1 saw that reality locally after attending both of the public forums led by a high-paid consultant hired by county commissioners to “educate” taxpayers about building a new jail and a new COA building. Neither meeting provided clarity or resulted in any clear direction - primarily because commissioners didn’t listen and the consultant from the architectural firm that would like to be awarded the eventual construction design contract, TowerPinkster of Kalamazoo, did not invite any openended dialogue. The naysayers, as they were called by commissioners, were looking for answers but. instead of being invited to participate in healthy dialogue, were directed to fill out cards on which to write their questions and concerns. That’s not what good public discourse or debate is all about. Good communication is listening to everyone’s perspective and discussing the issues so that, in lhe end, you come up with that the majority of taxpayers might support. “With public sentiment, nothing can fail; without it, nothing can succeed,” Abraham Lincoln said. “Consequently, he who molds public sentiment goes deeper than he who enacts statutes and pronounces decisions.” And now. before the last two forums Feb. 13 and Feb. 18, commissioners appear to be falling into the latter category of Lincoln’s observation. Last week, commissioners agreed the consensus was clear, that a new jail should be their priority this year - even though they’ve held just two public sessions, neither of which came to any conclusion or direction on lhe issues. They were merely public meetings with little or no discussion on working together toward a common understanding of lhe issues. “1 think we can be honest with ourselves and say that there likely will be just the jail on the ballot in August,” Commissioner Ben Geiger said. “And it [the jail] will likely be on the same site.” So I ask: Where’s the openness, lhe dialogue from community members and a true concern for any ideas the public might have? From what I’ve seen, commissioners don’t have much of a plan to present to voters. That also was the question put to them by facilitator Nancy Ohle who, during lhe board’s special goal-setting workshops Jan. 28 and Jan. 29, urged “positive messaging.” “That’s all covered in our contract with TowerPinkster,” Geiger replied. “Their professional resources are going to be used for that. There’s a time and place for talking about that messaging, and we have hired that firm for their professional assistance.” The “TowerPinkster Process.” as it was termed by Board Chairwoman Heather Wing, is far from lhe open dialogue in search of finding common understanding and a clear sense of what the issues are in other forums that I’ve attended over the years. At lhe very least, open discussion - even a debate of the issues - will lead commissioners lo an eventual decision voters might support. Unfortunately, we see the opposite continually at all levels when elected officials are unable to solve any issues because of the lack of good oldfashioned debate. We see it in Lansing where we’ve been talking about fixing Michigan roads for What do you bill done without having to rc*°* . borrowing billions through the sale of bonds without bipartisan agreement and no curren plan as to how we’ll repay the debtThe ability to develop, articulate, and evaluate arguments remains not only inc lifeblood of our democracy and society, it s essential to the development of an engaged society. _ We see it in Washington, D.C., where we’ve lost three years for focusing on the real issues for which people need answers while trying to remove a president from office. ... According to a Pew Report, two-thirds of Americans view affordability and availability of health care as a big problem. They’re pleading for health care reform that will reduce the cost, especially from prescription drugs. An even though they are dissatisfied with the present system, they remain cautious over lhe implications of a “national health insurance” program. We need open and healthy dialogue on illegal immigration and climate change policies, on college tuition, the federal budget deficit and terrorism. Yet in Washington few, if any, of these issues are top-of-mind for elected officials, and lhe war between political parties rages on. We see the high price for not listening here in Barry County, too, where county commissioners arc spending thousands on high-paid consultants to interpret the community’s interests while our own people arc trying to speak and commissioners end up tuning out the voices. The best and most recent example of that came two weeks ago when our county judges announced some changes coming soon that will have a direct impact on inmate numbers and reduce lhe need for a much larger jail. Barry County District Court Judge Michael Schipper, who’s aware of the changes, said, “If the changes are enacted, significantly fewer inmates will be in the Barry County' Jail.” Ameetingofthree county commissioners, the judges, their court administrator and the sheriff was held at the courthouse Tuesday. But, once again, the dialogue that look place there should have happened al a regular county board meeting so that everyone could have heard the discussion. Given the political climate we’re experiencing at every level of government, elected officials need to go the extra mile to maintain maximum transparency in any discussions. Only then will they find lhe answers that might lead to the public’s support in upcoming elections. “A lack of transparency results in distrust and a deep sense of insecurity.” lhe Dalai Lama cautioned. Transparency in government goes beyond reducing corruption and complacency. Leaders who promote openness in the decision-making process will find governing easier when people feel they’ve participated in the process. My suggestion to county commissioners: Go ahead and continue your public forums, but listen and welcome more dialogue from the general public before you tum (he decision over to the consultants. Fred Jacobs, CEO. J-Ad Graphics Inc. think? Here's your chance to take part in M interactj public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www n ea h com. Results will be iabula^T" with a new question the following week^ I-O' h »<-<•*. n,t. a filei a person nukes th,, <•<'""' shine. Do ><>" know someone i, ' 1,1 he featured J" lht. st^'^she hast,, tell or any other s , i^omulion to Nensmom. ' s‘" ' /#/ .V. M-4J Htthway, lloslin^al‘"‘.: 49058: <>t """il debate on the issues, we ve faded reasonable solution. So many o hoped that, as a former '.. Gretchen Whitmer would have been a 1 force reasonable relationships across he £Te and the political divides to get a roads d ong Last week: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer plans k . Transportation Commission to (w, i r over five yean, io fix ma£r f°r . State billion you think lhe governor should have ifcd bi"v8es' Do this without lhe OK of the slut-i . . Yes 40% legislature? No 60% to do For this week: nhmh0LJ,d the Presidential Pnmary be conducted one ihZnacross the nation, rather >n individual states over sPan of several months? Q Yes No �lhe Hastings Banner — Thursday, February .13, 2020 — Page 6 Hasti|,^s township seeks streetlight replacement GUEST COMMENTARY Hastings ^roPosal offers traction on bonding slippery slope oS addrcss‘ Gov. an essential road funding mechanism for our plan to borrow $35 billionth announced her local communities.” over the next four years t >tate-owncd roads. ' ' $a,CS Und rePairs ^or According to some estimates, it is possible that the state could currently issue up to $8.5 billion in total bonds for roads without legis­ lative approval, or $7.3 billion more in bonds based on current commitments that arc still being paid down. Calley said Whitmer’s move sets a dangerous precedent. It makes you wonder if a time will come when $3.5 billion is dwarfed by another reck­ less bonding proposal. Unfortunately, future generations in this state will be stuck with the bill. Bonding is a long-term problem dis­ guised as a short-term solution, and that’s what this plan will address. A House Fiscal Agency report from January shows that .Michigan’s government still owes more than $1 billion for road projects that w ere approved as far back as two decades ago - during both Republican and Democratic administrations. An estimated $199.6 million in debt service was slated to be paid just in the current fiscal year alone. HB 5473 has been referred to the House Transportation Committee for consideration. lYXortationT apProved >’>' State iransportaiion Commission the following y CKa,in8 sub“ dcb> Michigan s future generations JJmh?’1 in,nxlu<«l House Bill 5473 lo r™ ?.' Jillian taxpayer additional protecUo2? ?8a"uni'»‘eral executive action. 1 » would change the amount of bonds and notes that could be serviced by the commission. My plan sla(cs tha( debt servicc payments cannot exceed 10 percent of the . total transportation revenue from the previous year, instead of the current 50 percent amount tn Michigan law. These new interest requirements would ; mean less transportation revenue being divert­ ed to required debt service, while ensuring local communities do not lose out on needed funding each year. Regardless of whether a Republican or Democrat holds executive office in this slate, we should be respectful to what Michigan State Rep. Julie Calley is a Republican taxpayers - as well as their children and grandchildren - can afford. This corrective front Portland. . action will help make that a reality and protect (^Write Us A Letter The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but . there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: •All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. । • All.letters are. subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. ; • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. continually stalled. Brown said he has beeni directed to differ­ ent departments within Consumer’, Energy without any luck speaking to the correct per­ son. He said his most recent interaction has been with an engineer from the Kalamazoo area who is scheduled lo come to the town­ ship to review the site. In other business Tuesday, the board voted lo continue its relationship with Walker Fluke and Sheldon for annual audits. The township are « .Placing the sttvetligi;B..;- "f M-79 and M-37. Sup**1'" h Const,">■" •* been in talks “ llx-n>clll.bu \l-'”;n?y lhe potential rep’* 1 they have been board agreed io spend $5,360 for the upcont ing audit. ‘ The township also approved its upcoming board of review dates, which will be Wednesday, March 3. for an organizational meeting at I p.m.: Wednesday, March It. from 9 a.m. to noon and 6 to 9 p.m.; and Thursday. March 12. from 9 a.m. to noon anil 1 to 4 p.m. ' j Additionally, the township approved lhe spending of SI 1,963.67 for the January biMs, Superintendents react to Bumstead bill; Corlett echoed Bcrtolini’s point, specifical­ ly on Algebra IL “It would benefit students who are pursu­ ing a career in lhe skilled trades who don’t need to take that class for their future career,” Corlett said. Only six other states outside of Michigan require Algebra II for graduation. “I do believe in finding some middle ground.” Rcmenap said. “Not every kid is going to college.” But others areas, such as health and physi­ cal education, are important to every student’s growth, the superintendents said. “I think we need to balance ensuring we A bill cuncndyLnn^'’(qM1|h,g{1n House of Representative5 .P graduation re<|l,,n such as Algebra IL enh cl|nunate certain .. ’ ^hiding classes ‘ ‘ nd physical educa- !,°Thc bill intr^11^’ Octol>er 2019 by Sen. Jon Bunidc^. “'^aygo. who said the current rvMuin' . s°nieiitnes stifle student creativity^ . P’^ion nnd d(, nol always allow studen he preparcd for Jifc after high school if v plans do not include college.” . While local scnoc! superintendenls sajd they arc wary of ebnunating classes that may be important to a growth, they do support giving more lrecdom to districts. “I’d love the op^ynny to create our own graduation requirements.” Hastings Area Schools Superintendent I)an Remenap said. “We need ficxibiliO’ as a district.’’ “The more local control schools can have, the better.” Delton Kellogg Superintendent Kyle Corlett said. If the state legislature passes the Bumstead bill and eliminates graduation requirements for certain classes, individual districts may still choose to require students to take those classes. Districts could have flexibility to set different schedules for students with different post-high school plans. “All students are not the same, and local districts should have opportunities to custom­ ize graduation opportunities for lhe unique needs of their students,” Maple Valley Superintendent Katherine Bertolini said. “I think the key to proper revision of state grad nation requirements is a careful alignment of course options to students* interests in future training and career options. It is possible to create high-interest, high-rigor courses for all students that arc not necessarily university preparation options." Bertolini pointed to math as an area where more flexibility would allow' schools lo better tailor classes to student needs. are not doing students a disservice by allow­ ing them to graduate without classes iftey need, while also doing our best tn meet Stu­ dents’ needs.” Corlett said. “I would not rec­ ommend eliminating health as a requirement. We offer health class in middle school when we think students really need to leam that material.” C “I would not support the abandonment <rf health or physical education in programming because we need to have healthy students across all areas of academic study," Bertolini said. ‘‘That is a universal need, but I suppori having flexibility in what the local district? decide are viable options for their community.J’ NEWS BRIEFS; „: continued from front page with protecting and improving the health of residents through education; promoting healthy lifestyles: and implementing poli­ cies and programs for individuals, families, businesses and communities. Services range from restaurant food safety inspections to the W1C nutrition program. This free quarterly breakfast will take place al 231 S. Broadway. Leason Sharpe Hall, Hastings.Those who plan to attend are asked lo call 269-945-KIDZ (5439) or email linda@familysupportbarry.com . plans lo offer a S750 “Jump Start Yotjr; Future” college scholarship in April tom graduating senior at Hastings High Scho«. ■ The scholarship will be awarded directly t(> the student's chosen college or university.; The GFWC offers these scholarships ,T<p local girls planning to continue their educ*- • lion, and applicants are encouraged lo pix^- < vide recommendations from current men£. bers of the Hastings Women's Club. The scholarships are administered by the; Barry Community Foundation. The applien*lion form and instructions for online sub­ mission arc available on the foundation^ website, barrycf.org. Questions may be; directed lo Annie Halle al the foundation, 269-945-0526. ; The deadline for lhe final submission of; the application form and attachments is. The GFWC-Hastings Women’s Club March I. • ’ «i GFWC-Hastings accepting scholarship applications I o^f/<FiltPr* NO MORE GUTTER CLEANING Sr gvth» OR YOUR MONEY BACK J wno,M GUARANTEED! • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. J Know Your Legislators: ;«2.oo \OFF! Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909 Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). • Stale Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Mi 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon. Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; U.S mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. $60,000 SPRING RING U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503 phone (616) 451-8383. ’ U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D C 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Gary Peters, Democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510­ 2202 Phone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building. Room 720, 110 Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 2339President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. ■z SUNDAY, MARCH 22 • Doors: 2 PM • Sessions: 4 PM S«S‘ONS THURSDAYS- MONDAYS • 12 PM & 6 PM ■ IsHOW I g I^zl DeVos Phce Fj FEB 14-16,2020 ■ 1 ■ 52.00 Oftl Er^vUt Kc? gid r.) / I /rtrVMjU f. CLOSED TUESDAYS & WEDNESDAYS Visit Fir«I(eCpcrsCaslno.coin for details. ' 4 ’ rtl?/MichiganAveui^ I BaubGeek. Pelted lo the Interests of Barry County since 1R56 puo'j/tcdoy. Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 » Fax: (269) 945-5192 /Vu/'S American Metal Roofs /S' g@R0MES NEEDED! rvpHMtonoNii »9s « and press releases: nows@J-adgfaphlcs.com •Advertising: ads@padgraphlcs.com Publisher & Ctu Hank Schuuring CFO .NEWSROOM• rthecca Pie'ce tEa'IBr> , neoecco pd/fof) Chan^0' Taylor Owens ________ b so a.w 5 co p n Scon Ormen Ty Greenfield Mike Gilmore Chris Silverman Jennie Yonker SHOWCASE HOME DISCOUN£AyA|LABLE! I I Free Traikman Fitting Center I Fr&retaFtitfto! I Start your little aoller young at the Kia Zone l Kdiiwdl^ttd । । । BOAT S2.00 !SHfW OFF. DEVOS Pl.ACE FEB 19-23,2020 Over 400 Boo/* fre.-n J J dvalcrt with thr print ol the ysarf /rt.^ ixti' V>! x ^1 .7^ ...” !b< h-4 cHkr ’ : «• tA •. • >i.! VX* «1>h >' ( ire jx. 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Fcbnnry 13. 2020 — The Hastings Banner Worship Together ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churc tes available for your convenience... CHRIST 1 HE KING PRESBYTERIAN ‘ CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street. • Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter •• Adams, contact 616-690­ 8609. .. ’ FREEPORT BAPTIST CHURCH ■ 380 County I inc Rd., Freeport. MI 49325. (269) . 760-1928. Pastor Ron. A ‘ traditional style of worship. no gimmicks, and friendly ■ " people welcome you to ’ worship at ’an old country’ church.’ Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Sunday Worship 11 am. Sunday Evening 6 I p.m. Wednesday Bible -p Study and Prayer 7p.m j G’ivr us the pleasure of meeting you! . ': ‘ GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway. I Nashville. MI 49073 Pastor / Don Roscoe, (517) 852L 1783. Sunday service lOani. I* Fellowship lime before the service. Nursery, children s j ministry, youth group, adult sni.il! group ministry, leadership training. t HAS UNGS HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 2920 $. M-37 Hwy. (M-37 at M-79) Pastor Kim Metzcr. Phone 269-945-4995. ■ hastingshopcumc.org hastingshopeumet'i gmail. I com. U’< welcome YOU to ' join to on Sunday Mornings ' al 10:30 jar worship! Find ! LT On r‘ace hook! <© * ha>tingxhoprurm PLEASAN1VIF.W FAMILY CHURCH ; 2601 Lacey Raid. Dowling. MI 49050. Pastor. Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 * church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday / School 11 a.m.; Sunday ' Evening Service 6 p.m.; । Bible Study <L Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m MCCALLUM UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH 5505 Otis Lake Rd.. Delton, Ml 49046. Phone: 269-623­ 8226. New pastor - Jerald «- Jones. Sunday Service: 10:31-11:46; * Coffee ~ Connection. Nursery, Children’s ministry. , , , ’ SAINT'S ANDREW & MAITHIA INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion lhe 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion (cadi week) I iie Rector of Ss- Andrew lc Matthias i>, R( Rev. David I. Hustwick. lhe church phone number is 269-795 2370 and the rectory number b269 948-9327. Our church ’.veb-ite is www.samchurch. org. We are part ol the Diocese o! the Great Lakes which is in communion with I he United Episcopal Church ol North America and (is: the 1928 Book oi Common Prayer at all our HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 167-1 S. State Rd . Hastinp. MI 49058 Phone 269 945 2285. Sunday morning sen ice time: 10 a.m. with nursery and preschool available. LUTGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 I: State Rd.. P.O. Box 273. Hastings. MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269 948-0900. Website: w ww.lifegatccc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday life Group 6:30 p.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd.. P.O. Box 765. (comer of Milo Rd. &S. M-43). Delton. Ml 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11:30am, Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 to 7:30 pm ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange. Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd.. Nashville. Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise A: Worship 10:30 a.in.. 6 p.tn.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys Al girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616-731-5194. GREEN STREET I.NITED;METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green St. Hastings. Ml 49058 Rev. Bryce Fcighner Office Phone: 269­ 945.9574. Email: office, grvenstreetume^ gniail.com. Sunday. Schedule - The Praise 9:30 itm. ; The Word 10 a.m.: The Table 10:30 a.m. Nursery Care is available through age 4; PrcK-Xth grade Sunday School 10 a.m.; Sunday School for Adults at i! a.m. Upright Revolt Youth Ministry (6th-12th grades) 5:30-7:30 p.m. FREE Community Meal every Tuesday al 5 p.m. Refer to Facebook for weather conditions. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn. Hastings. Matt Moser. Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6 8 p.m.: Young Adults 6-9 p.m Wednesday, Family Night 6.30-8 p.m., AWANA (Children Kinderg<uien-5th Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948­ 8004 tor information on MH’! (Mothers in Training Together), Sports Ministries, Quilting. Indies Bible Study. WOOIMJROVE BRETHREN ''a&AN PARISH 4887 Call-. RdRandull Bertrand. Wheel­ chair awcsible and elevaror. SundrtJ School 9:30 a.m. Worship Tone 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF HASTINGS Sharing Jestts with our community & the world. 405 N. M-37 Hwy.. Hastings, Ml 49058. (269) 945-5463. w’W'w.firstrhurchhastlQg^ org. 9 a.m. Classes and Gatherings for All ages; 9:45 a.m. Worship (Children s Worship Offered); 10:45 a.m. Coffee Fellowship; 11:15 a.m. Coffee Talk w ith Pastor Dan. Follow us on Facebook. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, Ml 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Kathy Smith. Sunday Worship 9:15 am HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of Who jesus Is To The World Around Us”. 2635 N. M-43 Hwy., P.O. Box 8. Hastings. Telephone 269­ 945-9121. Email hastfmc-l gmail.com. Website: ywwjiast.iiuTimilClhydjiUyDJ- Pastor Brian Teed, Student Ministries Director, Emma Miller. Wor­ ship Director, Martha Stoetze!. Sundays: Nursery and tod­ dler । birth through age 3) care provided. SUNDAY MORN­ ING FAMILY HOUR WEL­ COMES ALL AGES AND ST AGES OF LIFE AT 9:30 a.m. Deep Blue, Loving God. Loving Neighbor Preschool age 3-5th Grade. Live: 6th-12th Grade. Adult Standard and Adult Elective classes. Coffee Talk. Fellowship Hall. Cookies at 10:05 ini. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. & Children's Church age 4—4th grade dis­ missed during service. Youth Group at 6 p.m. 2nd Tuesday: Young Women’s Small Group. 6 p.m. Wednesday: Women’s Bible Study 6:30-7:30 p.m. KID’S CLUB. Feb 5th-Marvh 18th, 6 30-7:45 pm. Thurs­ day: Adult Bible Study 10 am. For more information please contact the church or follow us on face book. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Du, r God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Feb. 9 • Worship services at 8 am. and 10:45 a.m. Nursery available both services Feb. 10 - Outreach Mtc. 4:30 p.m. Feb. 11 • Brothers of Grace 7 p.m. Pastor Ken Scheck 11. pastorkent" grace-hustings, org. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269-945-2698. www.grace-hastings.org. Facebook: Grace Lutheran Church-ELCA Hastings, Ml. DELTON, Ml - Rmh ,\pn “Ruthic" Shoup, age 78, of Delton passed 3'vay peacefully on February 10, 2020. Ruthie was bom on March IS. 1941 in Glen Robbins, Ohio, the daughter of William and Ruth (Shannon) Vorva- Ruthie enjoyed sewing, camping, playing cards, reading, working on puzzles, and collecting recipes and porcelain dolls. Ruthie loved cooking, she will be remembered for her pickled eggs and preparing Christmas breakfast casserole for her family. Ruthie was a proud foster parent to many infants over the years. On June 25. I960 in New Boston, she married the love of her life, Donald Shoup, who survives. Ruthie is also survived by children, Rebecca (David) Tobias, Joseph (Nonna Strauss) Shoup. Edna (Wayne) Sheffield, and Anita May Shoup; 17 grandchildren. 14 great grandchildren; brother. Robert \brva. and several nieces and nephews. Ruthie was preceded in death by her parents; daughter-in-law, Sheri Shoup; brothers, William “Jr.” Vorva. Gerald Vorva. and Regis Vorva; and sister-in-law, Pauline Vorva. Ruthie’s family will receive friends on Friday, Feb. 14. 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at the Williams-Gorcs Funeral Home, where the Rosary will be pravtd at 7:30 p.m. Ruthie’s funeral wtice will be conducted on Saturday. Feb.. Ia 2020. 11 a.m. at Revive Bible Church. Pastor Bernard Blair officiating. Burial will take place in East Hickory Comers Cemetery. Memorial contributions to Revive Bible Church or the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan will be appreciated. Please visit www.willianisgorcsfuneral.com to share a memory' or to leave a condolence message for Ruthie’s family. Sandy (Fig) Kay Newton passed away peacefully with her family on Friday, Feb. 7, 2020. She was bom in Hastings, on July 14, 1946 to Vernon Newton and Lois Fair. Hastings is where Sandy spent her 73 years. During her life she worked many places, did a variety of things and met many people. Those who knew her knew she was near because she liked to be heard. They also knew how much she loved animals. In September of 1965 Sandy and James Baker gave the world Jeanne Marie, her only child. During her life time Sandy enjoyed a good card game (especially poker), garage sales, chocolate shakes from Richies and was a member of the Eagles Chib and Moose Lodge. She enjoyed special times with her great granddaughter Sophia. Sandy is survived by her daughter, Jeanne (JetD Payton of Hastings; brothers, Jerry (Kathy) Newton of Wayland and Dennis (Gloria) Cooley of Chesapeake, VA; her grandson, Russell Burgdorf ill and granddaughter, Amanda Fleury; several nieces, nephews and family. She also shared two very* special lifelong friends, Char Abassc and Geri Szczepanak. Sandy was proceeded in death by both her parents, Vernon & Lois; two brothers. Vernon (Bud) Newton and Jimmy Lee. Family will have a celebration of life Friday, 1 ub 14, 2020 between 5 and 7 p.m. at lhe American Legion Post, 2160 M-37 Hwy., Hastings, Ml 49058 CITY OF HASTINGS NOTICE OF BOARD OF REVIEW ' HASTINGS AREA SCHOOL SYSTEM IS ACCEPTING SEALED BIDS ON: 232 West Grand St. Hastings, Ml 49058 by 4:00 p.m. The board will meet *n the Second Floor Conference Ro°m’ CitV HaH’ 201 E* State Street, Hastings, Michigan. Please mark the envelope BOSS Bid. 136956 Public is invited to participate in a discussion hosted Wthe Barry County Board of Commissi ners. TowerPinkster of Kalamazoo will Militate th° discussion. The topics will be the cur­ This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: sFerob Hogs Hastings 945-9554 Bids must be turned into the Administration Offices at PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE PurP0se* n.ecussion for Potential Millage Election ’ U|S August 2020 WELCOME CORNERS UNITED MEIIIODISI CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, J Lutings, Ml 49058. Phone 945-2(64. Worship Services* Sunday, 9.45 a.m. 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 Invitation to see unit - 2-12-2020 at 1:00 PM Bids are due - 2-14-2020 Assessment appeals, Tuesday March 10in 1-4 & 6-9 and Wednesday, March 11"' from 9-12 & 1.4. For an appointment, telephone 269-945-2468. March 31for reports. rent Use condition of the Barry County Jail and ShepfX office, and the current uso and con­ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________ dition 1 L Commission on Aging facility in 1351 North M-43 Hwy. BOSS V Plow for a compact utility side by side. It is 6 ft 6 Inches in length. Wiring, Mount, and controller go with unit. Was on a John Deere 625i Gator. Notice is hereby given that the 2020 March Board of Review of the City of Hastings will meet March 3rd at 11:00 AM for the Organizational Meeting to receive and review the assessment roll. Barry County Community Dialogue Event 1301 W. Green Si. Hastings 945-9541 HASTINGS. Ml - Carol Jo Brown, age 66. of Hastings, passed away on February 9, 2020. She was bom on June 30, 1953 in Hastings, the daughter ot Kenneth and Joan (Trainor) Tinker. Carol was a 1971 graduate of Hastings High School. On September 21, 1980. Carol married Kenneth Brown. She worked for Flexfab, retiring in 2016. Carol had a strong faith in God and was a member of lhe Hastings Church of lhe Nazarcne. She loved to crochet, listen to Pcntatonix, love on her grandbabies, and spend time with her friends (especially Deb and Kathy). She always loved having all of her children around. Carol was preceded in death by her parents Kenneth and Joan (Trainor) Tinker. She is survived by her husband of nearly 40 years, Kenneth Brown of Hastings; her children, Timothy (Terri) O’Neill of Grand Rapids, Ryan O’Neill of Hastings, Chris (Rachel) Brown of Clarksville, TN, /Vngela Brown of Hastings; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, and her sister, Susan (Tinker) Hill of Hastings. A Celebration of Life Service was held on Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2020 at lhe Hastings Church of the Nazarenc, 1716 N Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Arrangements by Girrbacb Funeral Home, to leave an online condolence, visit vvww. girrbachfuneralhome.net. Mastinnc information will be shared and public feedback h inpul is invited. The event is sched­ ule ?n<L following dates and locations. orl Dal. Tiinc Tueg^y. February 18. 2020 at 7:00 PM ymngeville Township Board m pXL:n2d6S9%SaFnWe!J’ M|e^°n89° Email: '664-341! ^•orangovilleVnsKg °™;?pTy'F,b'“^’Vao2o Undsoy Ra„ Location: School, Room 1616 PPk Green Lake Rd. Addieville, Ml 49333 Kello« tjucTion- plean- call: Admimstration (269) 945 1284 F , /• ) !•>/( t>nuni>\:mh r.'i >run/ nppresent. 'd th.’ » contact the Clerk M.i c _ ___ y aw in S Act- should (Mol 168.498(3) 136930 �Ths Hastings Barmer — Thursday, February 13. 2020 — Pago 7 Studies planned as Barry Township water levels rise Savimah Kaechele C ontributing Writer An update from Barry County County Commissioner Dave Jackson at Tuesday night’s Barry Township Board meeting brought news on the flooding of the county’s lakes. Jackson referred to the flooding problem as one of the more prevalent things being worked on by the county. Water levels continue to rise, with Lake Michigan having record high water levels. “The county board approved preliminary lake level studies for Long luike and the channel lakes and also Pleasant Lake.” Jackson said. Significance of these studies derives from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great l-akes and Energy requirement of the lake level studies in order to move forward with the plan of water removal from the Watson Drain and Crooked Lake. Studies for Long Lake and the channel lakes have been completed; however. Pleasant I-akc will be a six to eight-wcek project. “The plan has been escalated in my opinion to the point that they arc talking about - if this all works as they want it to - they’d like to put lake-level structures in on Long Lake and channel lakes sometime in late April early May. to potentially start moving water into the Delton drain and off Crooked Lake around May or June.” Jackson said. EGLE is giving a short-term permit to run water northward until the lake levels are down and no longer negatively impacting the lakes. Although the natural water flow is south, Jackson said the goal is to get some immediate flooding relief going northward. “They want to take the water south through an infiltration bed at some point,” Jackson said. “I think EGLE is going to require them to put that infiltration bed southbound - it’s just that that infiltration bed can’t handle the amount of water that’s on Lhe lake right now,” he added. Trustee Teresa Schuiteboer asked about irrigation. “The equipment rental was cither expensive, and then the cost of hooking it up, channeling (he water, running the pumps whatever the cost was. it was going to be really expensive.” Jackson answered. “The revised updated plan for flooding in the county is underway, but it is still a long way off. That’s probably still eight months to a year away before we gel any real"progress on that,” he said. “You would think that would be something that we would step up and move a little quicker.” Jackson reminded those at lhe meeting of community forums and ongoing discussions by the county board regarding status or lhe jail and the Commission on Aging building. “We can’t build a jail for lhe flavor of the year.” Jackson said. “You have a democratic governor right now who’s pushing prison reforms. Well, next they might be tough on crime and they might be putting 10 times the number of people in jail. Sou just don’t know-. So, we have to build a jail based on historical levels and where we see this is going." Treasurer Judy Wooer asked about lhe cost of a new jail. “S20 million lo $22 million - somewhere in that range,” Jackson replied. The Delton Rotary Club will host its wild game dinner Saturday, Feb. 15, at Faith United Methodist Church. This event has previously raised around $5,000-S6.000, which is given back to the community in a variety of ways. Hickory Fire Chief Craig Wyman gave his January report. The fire department responded to 12 calls during the month. The average response time was 7 h minutes. The average response time from agencies providing mutual aid was 12 16 minutes. The Delton Fire Department received 44 calls in January', 14 of which were fire calls. The remaining 30 were medical first responder calls. In his report. Police Chief Mark Doster said the department saw a decrease in the number of accidents - only seven for the month of January. “Thank goodness, we finally went down on accidents.” Doster said. Wooer gave the library update which included the following: - The library is still hosting the income tax assistance program. ?\nyone with an income under $60,000 will qualify for a free tax preparation. Appointments are required. - Movies will be shown at the library every Tuesday in March, with lhe Delton Kellogg Partners in Education supplying half of the funds for the licensing fee to do so. - Two ping-pong tables allow for tournaments now at the library. - A variety of classes, including gardening, yoga, cardio-dnimming and sewing are available. - UPS may now stop and pick up packages from the library. A label for the package is required. - Message Express Internet is installing new fiber optics, which will increase internet speed. This improvement will be concluded in July. The cemetery report included both last year and this year’s statistics. The year 2019 included 16 cremation burials and three full burials. Four full burials have already been done in January’ this year. As part of the Gull Lake Sewer report. Supervisor Wes Kahler informed the board of an advisory committee established for the water tower. “We are just exploring things right now. Nothing is set in stone,” Kahler said. Four dates have been set for Music in the Park, with a big one on July Fourth weekend. The budget is currently being worked on. “Right now, tentatively, it will be half of what it was last year.” Clerk Deb Knight said. In other business, the board: - Approved two quotes. Welcome signs for Hickory' Comers and Delton will cost $ 189.35. There will be four signs in Hickory and three in Delton. The money for the signs will be taken out of the operations fund. Lighting for the park project will use part of the grant money received from the foundation: $3,950 will go toward the purchase of lhe lights. - Introduced Beverly Walters, a new board of review member. The next township meeting will be Thursday, March 12. with a public hearing at 6:30 p.m. Third public hearing added to planning commission agenda Savanah Kaechcle Contributing Writer Hastings’ Planning Commission has added a third hearing lo its 7 p.m. March 2 meeting in the city council chambers. The hearing will involve a proposed project involving a house at 410 West Slate St. and lhe pharmacy al 400 Wesl Slate St. Hastings Community Development Director Dan King said the plan is to tear down the residential building which he referred to as “Mary’s Hair and Nails," locat­ ed to the wesl of the pharmacy. Then, an extension of (he pharmacy would be built in place of lhe residential building. The addition would be a two-story struc­ ture encompassing 2,700 square feet between both floors of the building. It would be uti­ lized for cither an expansion of lhe pharmacy or office space for a new company. King listed other potential uses for the extension as “generic,” such as business plan­ ning, accounting, or other financial purposes. Tile plan calls for a shared wall between the pharmacy and lhe building extension, but King said he is not sure if there would be a shared door or if there would be two separate doors. There also is plan to demolish an old resi­ dence currently on lhe lol. A final site plan will be reviewed and discussed at lhe meeting on March 2nd. Hearing today on rebuilding US-131/M-179 interchange Greg Chandler Staff Writer of The Michigan Department Transportation. in conjunction with the Gun Ukc Tribe. will hold n public meeting today to discu,*.s plans to rebuild lhe interchange al U.S. 131 and M-179 (Chief Nix^nday Road/129th Avenue). The meeting will lake place hum 4 to 6 p.m. in the multipuiposc room of the Gun Lake Tribal Adminisir.uion Building, 2872 Mission Dr., Shelbyville. Representatives from MDOT will provide details ulviut lhe project, construction sched ulc .md tr.dfic inionnution. 7he public is invited to .stop in at any time during the meet­ ing to leant more about the project and pro­ vide comments. MDOT spokesman John Richard said. lhe project will involve rebuilding lhe interchange on U.S. 131 at the Hopkins/ Bradley exit. “The new interchange will be rebuilt ns a single-point urban interchange, similar to the one at U.S 131 and 44l” Street (in the Grand Rapids area),” Richard said. Preliminary work on the project is set to begin this fall, but the bulk of the project will take place next year. Richard said l he V S. 131/M-179 interchange was orig­ inally built in 1959. The interchange has seen a considerable increase in traffic since the Gun I-akc Casino opened in January 2011. SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Circumstances determine which agency can help pofOthV Reid to c^^brate 9(Jth ^bthday Dorothy Re'd th'nii1* ,un,'ng *»0 on February 22 |ike > P»ty is planned. If you tt0U,J ... she."1? hcr a *laPPy Birthday. I u enjoy hearing from you. . J* ** to 1562 Iroquois Trail, H»"nb>.MU9O58. HASTINGS public library SCHEDULE Friday. Feb. 14 - preschool story time. 10:30-11 a.m.; teen advisory board meeting, 4-5 p.m. Saturday. Feb. 15 - board games and Dungeons and Dragons group, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 17 - Quilting Passions, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; Lego club, 4-5 p.m.; murder my stery group. 6-8 pjn. Tuesday. Feb. 18 - toddler lime, 10:30-11 a.m.: Great Decisions: Televised - The Philippines Under Dinette, noon-1; Great Decisions: Foreign Affairs Discussions, 1-3.; mahjong dub, 5:30: chess club. 5:30; euchre, 5:30 p.m. Wednesday. Feb. 19 - Family Science Night. 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20- Baby CafiL 10 a.m.noon; Novel Ideas Book Club discusses “The Thirteenth Tale" by Dime Satterfield, 12:30­ 2:30 p.m.; Movie Memories and Milestones watches 1962 film from the book "In Search of the Castaways” by Jules Verne, starring Hayley Mills. Maurice Chevalier and George Sanders. 5 p.m. More information about these and other events is available by calling the library, 269­ 945-4263. Marriage ■ ficenscs Dylan James Gleason. Shelby ville and Alyssa Renee McConnon, Shelbyville Candy Leona Wilson, Freeport and Jerry Dwane Lindenna”’ Freeport Christine Mari* Fean, Grand Rapids and William Scott Rfl^cnia» Hastings Randall Lewi* Noon. Hastings and Stacey Kay Patten, Hasdfl8s Vonda Van Til Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Social Security offers retirement, disability and survivors benefits. Medicare provides health insurance. Because these services often are related, you may not know' which agency to contact for help. The questions below can help you quickly figure out where to go. Please share this table with family and friends. Medicare -What does Medicare cover? medicare.gov/ what-medicare-covers -How can 1 check lhe status of Medicare Part A or B claims? mymcdicare.gov -Where do I find forms for filing a Medicare appeal or let someone speak with Medicare on my behalf? medicare.gov/claims-appcals/ how-do-i-file-an-appeal -What do Medicare health and prescription drug plans in my area cost, and what services do they offer? medicarc.gov/pkm-compare -Which doctors, health care providers, and suppliers participate in Medicare? medicare, gov/forms-help-resources/find-compare-doctors-hospitals-other-providers -Where can I find out more about a Medicare prescription drug plan (Part D) and enroll? medicare.gov/drug-coverage-part-d/ how-to-get-prcscription-drug-coveragc -Where can I find a Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policy in my area? medicare.gov/medigap-supplemental-insurance-plans Social Security -How do 1 report a death? Contact your local Social Security Office or call 800-772­ 1213 CITY 800-325-0778) -How can I check Medicare eligibility? socialsccurity.gov/benefits/medicare -How do I sign up for Hospital Insurance? (Part A) socialsecurity.gov/benefits/medicare -How do 1 sign up for Medical Insurance? (Part B) socialsecurity.gov/benefiLs/medicare -How do I apply for Extra Help with Medicare Prescription drug coverage? (Part D) socialsecurity.gov/benefils/medicarc/prescriptionhcip - How to appeal an income-related monthly adjustment amount decision? For people who pay a higher Part B or D premium, if their income is over a certain amount socialsecurity.gov/bcncfits/disability/ appeal .h (ml -How can I request a replacement Medicare card online? socialsecurity.gov/myaccount -If I already get benefits or have Medicare, how do I report a change of address or phone number? socialsecurity.gov/myaccount - Where do I find publications about Medicare? ssa.gov/pubs/?topic=Medicare medicare.gov/publications Vonda Van Til is the public affairs specialist for Michigan. You may write her do Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids Ml 49525 or via email at vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. HARDING’S, continued from page 1--------------A few years ago, the store switched to LED lighting to reduce its energy usage and make the building more environmentally friendly, Fahner said. “We’ve been privileged to be part of lhe community and to be able to serve them. We just thank them for all their support," Fahner said. “It’s been an honor to be here.” Hours for the new Harding’s store will be 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 8 ajn. to 8 pjn. Sunday, Deniston said. ATTENTION BARRY TOWNSHIP RESIDENTS BARRY TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING DATES 7:00 P.M. SECOND TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH *** unless noted Barry Township Meeting Hall 155 E. Orchard St. Delton, MI 49046 11 14 12 9 7 11 8 MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER 2020 ••• Wednesday 2020 2020 2020 2020 2020 2020 2020 13 OCTOBER 2020 10 NOVEMBER 2020 DECEMBER 8 2021 12 JANUARY FEBRUARY 2021 9 9 2021 MARCH PUBLIC HEARING @6:30 p.m. All meetings are held at the Barry Township Meeting Hall at 7:00 p.m. unless noted otherwise. Barr)' Township will provide reasonable auxiliary aids and serviwees, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed material being considered at any township meeting, lo individuals with disabilities upon seven days notice to the clerk. 155 E. ORCHARD STREET (MEETING HALL) 11300 S. M-43 11WY. (TOWNSHIP OFFICE) P.O. Box 705 DELTON. MI 49046 PH 269-623-5171 OR FAX 269-623-8171 EMAIL: barrytownship@mei.net Website: barrytownshipmi.com Respectfully, Debra J. Knight, Barry Township Clerk BOARD OF REVIEW MEETING SCHEDULE THE ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP BOARD OF REVIEW will be held at the Orangeville Township Hall. 7350 Lindsey Rd. Plainwell Mi. 49080 on the following dates. Tuesday March 3, Organizational Meeting - 4:00 pm Monday, March 9, Appeal Hearing-9:00 am to 12:00 noon & 1:00pm to 4 00 pm Tuesday March 10, Appeal Hearing - 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm, & 6:00 pm '^Valentine! Message for Baby Girl The Board of Review will meet as many more days as deemed necessary to hear questions, protests and to equalize the 2020 nQQPcqments By Board resolution, residents are able to protest by letter, provided protest letter is received by March 10, 2020 - 12:00 noon. Written protests should be mailed to; BOARD OF REVIEW 7350 LINDSEY RD. PLAINWELL Ml. 49080 vou iive '"y “ thrill. Aliva)'5 ,MIV & ohi’iij's will. fiisl o,u‘ °u,,v thing pit tny mind, I I I ; I I y°u nif Valentine? I ( XXXxoqqq j Honey Bear to 9:00 pm I The tentative ratios and the estimated multipliers for each class of real property and personal property^for O2,017 are as fo,lows' L , Agricultural. Commercial Industrial Residential Personal 47.83% .................... 48.06 %................................ 48.46 %.............................. 50,00%................... 1.12008 1.04537 1 04037 1.03178 (ADA) Americans with Disabilities Notice Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Clerk at least seven (7) days in advance of hearing, This notice posted in Compliance with PA 267 of 1976 as amended (Open Meetings Act) MCLA41.72a (2)(3) and with the Americans with Disabilities Act Contacts - Clerk - Mel Risner: 269-664-4522 Supervisor- Thomas Rook: 616-299-6019 �HHS announces semester honor roll Page 8 - Thursday. February 13.2020 - The Hastings Banner Elaine Garlock The Lake Odessa Historical Society will meet at 7 tonight at the museum on Emerson Street. The program will feature several historical items that were given to the museum by lhe late Robert Morris who also was a major benefactor of the society. Quilts from the January quilt show arc still on display for the enjoyment of those who attend. The society had another profitable soup supper last Friday evening. The Christmas Memory trees are still on display. The Tri-River Museum group will meet Tuesday after a two months* recess. Thursday. Feb. 20, the Ionia County Chapter of Michigan Association of Retired School Personnel will meet at the Ionia Heartland Center on TUttle Road. This includes all retired school employees from cooks to superintendents, to bus drivers and school nurses. Lunch will be at noon. The Red Cross was here for a blood drive Monday. School was closed for Lakewood students but the chief roads were passable. The unit drew a good attendance. The crowd appeared to be mostly men. Cargill Kitchen Solutions on Bonanza Road provided the canteen with soups, crackers, beverages and cookies to replenish fluids for donors. Besides lhe Red Cross, a crew of local volunteers filled other spots in the service. The Ionia County Genealogical Society met Feb. 8. John Pierce of Orleans discussed the at nearby museums many features available i h Hjs 1<yiding for one’s pleasure an» bridge from a picture was of the Fa’’ 2p|e of the items glass plate negative as an « I available. This was a fine cm i photography. departments Fire apparatus from f 1(XK) responded to a house fire. which is a block of Jordan Lake Ave nuc *h ich heavily travelled road in the • the chief route from M-50 north to the96 freeway The house was heavily nvoivca b” me of discovery. One resident was sleeping on the second floor because af his work hours. A neighbor took a long a c his home, leaned it against the window wall help lhe man escape lhe blazing structure.1lie and another man residing m the home were treated at a hospital for smoke inhalation. Hie house had not always been in that spot. It was built across the street at the comer of Jordan Lake Highway and Second Street, the home of Jerry and Norlcne Carpenter, owners of Jerry’s Tire and Battery. When the Carpenters were ready to build a new home, they had the house moved across the street to a vacant lot to make room for their new brick ranch house. Lakewood Community Council has a policy of making a financial gift to any one in Lakewood school district who suffers loss of a home by fire. Likewise the Red Cross offers assistance. Barry Township 2020/2021 Budget Public Hearing Notice The Barry Township Board will hold a Public Hearing on the proposed budget for fiscal year 2020-2021 at the Barry Township Meeting Hall, 155 E. Orchard Street, Delton, MI 49046 on Wednesday March 11, 202 @ 6:30 p.m. The property’ tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be the subject of this hearing. A copy of the budget is available for public inspection at lhe Township Office, 11300 S. M-43 Hwy, Delton, Michigan, 49046. The Barry Township Board will provide necessary’ reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting upon 7 days notice to the Barry Township Board. Hustings ||j . announced its honor roll foril)e ’r of the 2019-20 academic year. Sen1<s‘ The honor n>|| • |atcd based on a cumulative grade , -ruie, starting with a sfudenfs lirM high school through the end . ’eqc,nioicr this school year. ,,rst •st’1 Sl?dej n |!,iules nine ,hrough 12 Who earned a 4.0 or hi-j . indicated with an asterisk.* J 'Vj1a- Top /n>,/nrv above) Dane Barnes. ’ Brown, Audrey M yp krc,i:- "’"nah >»«’"• ^’"or McFarlan. Kath!cen p u. k Anna Schock. honl)r. (3.75-3.99) „ Kay Makavb Casarez, K arsyn ’m .,Zabelh G»nsalvcs. Brenna Klipfer, Caeleb Meyers. Wi||jnm goosien III, Ellie Saur. Zachary Schnur Elijah Smith. Natalie Taylor. HaylecVans^i/ „ H'Xh honors (325-3.74) 1 1 U|Rnru Allcnl«ng Jonathan Arnold, Ireland Barber. lK)n£s B:iniard Jr., Chelsea Beede. Elizabeth Rccmer, Joshua Brown, Juan Calderon. Carter Cappo’L Katherine Cook. Kevin Coykcn(ja||t Benjamin Curtis, Erm Dalman, Graefe Gillons. Blake Harris, Marcdo Hcrnandez.Avalos. Rae Herron. John Hinkle. Tyfer Kaiser, Joseph Kalmink, Jaden Karnatz, Gracie Landes, Jamison Lesick, Aidan Makled, Earl McKenna, Jessica Mueller. Bailey Musculus, Kennedy Newberry. Connie Ricketts, Steve Schnur, Matthew Sweeney.Camden Tellkamp. Abigail Therman. Kaylee Tigchelaar, Braden Tolles. Andrew Vann, Alayna Vazquez. Paxton Walden. Sydney Wolf. Loean Wolfenbarger. Abby Zull. Honor roll (30-324) Casey Barnes, Hannah Bloomberg. Collin Hawthorne, Ravna Honsowilz. BrookLyn Knowlton. Madison Lindquist. Rachael Mueller. Evan Murphy, Rigden Pederson, Alexander Steward,Gabriel Trick. Joshua Yi. Eleventh grade Highest honors (3.75 and above) Patrick Gee, ' Kirby Beck4, Kierstyn Brisco, Ethan Caris, Ella Carroll. M. Grace Green, Skyler Grego, Sophia Groendal, Rylee Honsowitz, Addison Horrmann, Jesse Hunt, Daisy Kerby, Shelby Lindquist, Alexander MalmquistHubert, Maggie Nedbalek*, Zackary Perry. Samuel Randall*. Lauren Scnsiba, Hannah Slaughter. Nicole Strouse. Aura WahlPiotrowski. Abigail Waller *. Kayla Willard.* High honors (325-3.74) Kennedy Allyn, Jacob Arens, Valeria Arias. Nathaniel Birchfield. Austin Bleam, Aubrec Bond, Haily Christie. Ryan Diljak, Skylar Dixon, Aubree Donaldson, Mitchell Eldred. Autumn Fox. /Xaron Gole. Daniel Hall, Alexia Herblet. Carter Hewitt. Jade Hunter, William Jensen. Rose Lambert, Savana Leonard, August Malik, Jessica McKee ver, Juliann Meeker. Jacob Neil, Josephine Nickels, Bailey Nye, Olivia Oger, Gavin Patton. Grayson Patton. Canton Pederson, Nathan Phillips, Ainsley Reser, Lainey Smith, Logan Smith, Nicholas Stafford, Leila Sweeney. Lucas Teunessen, Brynn Tunies, Corbin Ulrich, Michael VanDorp, Javcn VanZalcn, Reese Warner, Emma White. Thomas Wickham, Phconix Work. Honor roll (3.0-324) Emma Alexander. Alanna Bccrman, Kierstin Boulter. Juliet Bradfield, Zebulon Carey. Jaden Dnibik, Ethan Dunn. Evan Eastman, Scott Fischer, Hunter Hays, Lauralie Hyatt, Pay ton Levett, Madison McMasters. Raven Morrow', Isaac Oberlin.Lucas Richards, Alanna Rivera, Hayden Smith, Briana VanDenberg. Brianna White. Tenth grade Highest honors (3.75 and above) Ruby Barber, Brianna Barnes, AndrewBassett. Hannah Crozier. Hailey Graham*, Aihsley Jones, Connor Lindsey, Patrick Mallory*. Jenna Miller. Taylor Owen*. Matthew Paltok, Emily Roe, Harrison Smalley, Carissa Strouse*, Emma VanDenburg, Hannah Vann, Braden Vertalka, Owen Winegar, Sage Winters. High honors (350-3.74) Faith Beede. Riley Bies, Rory Campbell, J\ewbom babies Nellie Johnson, bora at Spectrum Health Pennock on Januarv 15. 2020 to Whitney Steward and Connor Lri^on of Mulliken. •. j' i* Vivian Lee Boulter Iximu Spectrum Health Pennock on Januaiy 14,2)20 to Lacy Renae Boulter and Josh Lee Boulzr of Hastings. Note: Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Barry Township Board by writing or calling the following: Barry Township Board Phone :269-623-5171 P.O Box H 705 Fax: 269-623-8171 Delton, MI 49046 email @ barrytownship@mei.net Respectfully, Debra J. Knight, Clerk I* MJ City of Hastings 137169 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING REZONING OF PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1500 STAR SCHOOL RD PARCEL #08-55-265-007-20 ^'ann'"gCommi«ion for the City of Hastings will hold a Public Hearing for the purpose of hearing written and/or oral comments from the public concerning the rezonmg of a certain property at 1500 Star School Rd parcel « 08-55-265-007^0 The Plan- mng Comm.ssmn will consider the proposed rezoning of said propeny from D 2Indmtrial to Meadow stone Planned Unit Development. The public hearing v.n i h.iUt uny nan, zui Last State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. W&l* n T’ l c f°r ”ub'ic i^on *W AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday at the Office of the Community Development Dtrcctor, 201 tat Slate Street. Ihsltngs. M.chtgan 49058. Questions or comments can be directed lo Dan King, Community Development Director, at 269.945.2468 or dkingto hastingsmi.org The City wiH necessary reasonable aid-, and services upon five days notice to the City Clerk al 269.945.2468 or TDD call relay services 800 6493777. Jane M. Saurman City Clerk 1 indscY Herron, NJah Mead. Wyatt Holman Joscph‘ MiIes. Makayla BreAnn Micklatehen Pctlcngitl. Parsons. Andr p.^sdiantz. Allien Teed, Ellie Pipcnger. Phoctx. ac Btuanna Wiling ru/l(J.2.^ Elisabeth Ar,l”ld’°r"h Courtney, Bouchard. Justin Caste ■ . Mason Denton. Jackson DuBo Anna Jt^nnHe- Grace Kurr Wcmigwans, Brooklynn Youngs. b Ninth grade Highest honors (3.75 and aho*e) . b Lauren Arnold*. Abigail Bcreeron Alivia Cassini. Bailey Cook, Encka Critzer° G’race Curtis. Valery Eaton*. Zara Franklin. Abby Gaskill. Joseph_G°gg^. Zachary Gole. Ellysa Hawkins-D>x- A""» Haywood’. Ethan Henry. Jocelyn Hcmandez. Anden Hines. Gabrelle Horrmann. Jack Kensington. Nathan Kohmcscher, Julia McLean*. Molly Fatton . Isaiah Randall. Cailiri Redman. Emtly Simmons. Isabelle Storm. Lauren Taylor. Kearan Tolles’. Lillian Van Ooy. Caleb Waller*. Macy Winegar. High honors (350-3.74) Sophia Ahearn, Valentina Arias, Reed Baldcrson. Saanj Bhakta, Eve Bishop. Mekih Bolsford, Kathryn Clark. Erin Daniels, Justus Forell, Trenton Lipsey. Lawrence McKenna. Payton Miller. Ashton Rasey, Mackcnzi Rivera. Marissa Roberts, Jonathan Schantz, Robert Slaughter. Cole Smith. Ella Tellkamp. Johannes Tumes, Aiyanah Wemigwans. Honor roll (325-3.49) Taylor Arens, Joy Aukerman, Dylan Brisco. Zachary Chipman. Brinna Cobb, Cameron Danks, Janesa Hasman, Ethan Kendall. Addison Mays. Adrianna Nelson. Christian Owen, Pcighton Reser. Ella Saxton, Cameron Seeber, Bayne Signcski. Isaac Stanton, Madeline Traver. LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate FILE NO. 20-28429-DE Owen Scott Bolinger, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on January 23. 2020 to Cassidy Lynn Bolinger and Cad Philip Bolinger of Nashville Tw-p. James Robert Jackson, bom al Spectrum Health Pennock on January 21. 2020 to Christina Jackson of Lake Odessa. ■ Estate of Virginia E. Lewis. Date of birth: 11-IQ1942. TO ALL CREDITORS’. NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Virginia E. Lewis, died 11-04-2019. Creditors of the decedent are notified that ail claims against the estate will be forever baaed unless presented to Brian T. Aitken, persona! representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street #302, Hastings. Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 2-10-2020 Ronald E. David P36928 99 Monroe Ave NW, Suita 1210 Grand Rapids. Ml 49503 616-454-3883 Brian T. Aitken 18805 Van Road Livonia, Ml 48152 313-805-6997 137174 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement A set unfite any other look Closely 2“ on >‘>nr •‘I* These 114y^| h' fridges-IM actually stick u„ J1''1 ,r,t -ol of the skin. WntP±Ve tons left behind "hen your ting^ ",,l,'e , g|ass. or when you put ink m, U IUlkh !;„d press them o» a piece of pa sard. “Friction odges are the ;,r u.. C*’"E, on >'»'r f,nS<:r' •ips and pahnsyUidPi«lrfnS eye color, nose shape, and more. Genes also tell the skin how- and when to grow. When a baby is growing inside his or her mother’s womb, as a fetus, the dermis (lhe inside skin layer) and epidermis (the outside skin layer) grow together. Friction ridges appear where these layers meet, guid­ ed by genes. But these layers don’t grow at the same speed for every fetus. If one layer of cells grows faster, it can stretch and pull the oth­ ers. As the lulus moves, his or her fingers can nib against the side of the womb. These tiny forces push the skin as it grows. Together, they mold the direction of the growing ridges. The result is a finger­ print unlike anyone clse’s. Everyone’s skin grows in a slightly differ­ ent environment. That’s why it’s so unlikely anyone has the same fingerprints as you about a 1 in 64 billion chance. Koalas and chimpanzees have unique fin­ gerprints, loci. Like humans, their hands and feet are covered in friction ridges. T hey also spend a lol of time climbing trues, just like humans’ primate ancestors did millions of years ago. T hat might mean friction ridges give texture to grab rough or slippery things. Scientists don’t know yet if cats have dif­ ferent paw prints. But have you ever looked at lhe bumps on a cat’s nose? Some scien­ tists think cats might have unique nose prints. I'nction ridgv, „ ,-flerenl designs, like arches or u |K °w ‘n d >r narenw’ *’,n' 'f>r o^Enight be Dr. Universe libely to have it " W*'?.’ because genes g,Ve 'J* I’asic ^, T|’t; you get >»ur genes irom ' (ienes arc bL.^nts. inside ^^^Jltiv^^forthhtgsl^ Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe Send an email lo Washington State University’s resident scientist and ‘ ■ at Dr.UnivericCaJWsu.edu or visit her uebsilc, askdruniverse.com. Dr. Universe: Why do people have different finger­ prints? Man’. 12. South Carolina Dear Mar)-, Did you know even idcntica* twins have different fingerprints') It can be hard to tell twins apart, but a close fix* al their f,ng"‘ tips can reveal wh0’s Xsho.The reason lies partly in their gcncs W moi4,y fr°nl "W unique way everyone’s birth. That’s what | |e..m .j from my friend David M.Conley,a Xcrat Washington Slate llniversilyX FL... 8 f:|l,>d C ollcSe ° Medicine. *•!«,„> •The reason fineemrinK uni‘luc.is ,h® same reason individ^rans are iinrque. < <»ilcy sanl. 1 lbe norm, not the exception.” ” There’s no sinple . for your unique fingerprint design i„ u it's the result ot »lh your genes aJ ' Environment. I his Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sa'e of the mortgaged premises, cr some part of them, at a pubhc auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1’00 PM, on February 20, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged lo contact the county register of deeds office or □ title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: y Natnefs) of too mortgagor Jacot> S| a mmiK| man Orignal Mortgagee; Mortgage, Electron c Registration Systems, Inc as morto-niL tkclron‘c for lender and lender s succt-S ’ 5 Forectosing Assignee (if any): mSiS9'* Date of Mortgage; August 26 2015 Date of Mortgage Recording;’September 1 2015 Amount claimed due on Kara 1« 2015 Description of theS75-931’67 in Village of Freeport BjX p'efn=se5; STuated described as: Lobs) 3 R.XiPTi M1Ch|9an- and VILLAGE OF FREEPOrV 0F ™E recorded in Liber 1 ofpL?fC?d'n9^°th9 PSal thcreof Records. Pa9° of Barry County Freo^MlSSL^^ 01 date of suchS 120 Ch6fTY St. bQ 6 montns from lho accordance with MCL 600 abandoned In property is used for aoririi. Qr'H s^ectrea’ by MCL 600 3240(16) 9 u tural Purposes as defined If the property is . Chapter 32 of the Revised i..TC!°SU^ 5316 Gnde' pursuant to Met 600 Ud/Cature Ac! of 1961, respens b’e to the person borr°wer bo be!d mortgage foreclosure "0 bu/s breperty at lhe ’or damaging the'" Drn * ,or ,0 th° mortgage ho’der Period. 4 y Property during the redemption Attention homeowner w, member on active du^v d are a m ',Ur7 servce tas concluded less man soT of act,'d duty been ordered f0 w bays ag0( Of jf you attorney for th* Pd/^ to ?ut* P^se contact the telephone numbe ^tat^i h?h-nQ the at the n This not.ee is from noticoDate of notice; JanuaX ?qbon°J!ector Trott Uw. Pc. Udfy 2020 1407563 (01-23X02-13) 136095 �stories - local history in the Hastings Banner 7^48886^ turning BflGK THE PAGES January 1940 news _was wide-ranging \ •• Don Taffee, an employee of Walldorff and MacArthur, stands beside an iron lung used for polio victims in the 1940s. The March of Dimes known today has its origins in the mid-century battle against polio. This photo accompanied a 1990 looking back at local news from 1940. The following column uas written hv the late Esther Waliwra? a 50-yrar retrospect. The piece. forr tt’'r '“Eroni Time.. 16 Tune" column, was in the April 26,Banner The news 50 years ago, in January- 1940, started with “Who will be Barry County’s first 1940 baby ?” The contest ran from the first of lhe year until Jan. 9. The lengthy timeframe was lo accommodate children bom at home, since that still was a common practice. The winner was Joseph Blair, born at 7:25 a.m. New Year’s Day News on the second front page dealt with a possible oil well in lhe county. For more than a year, residents of the country were treated to news about possible oil wells, their potential pitfalls and economic benefits lo the county. An article dated Jan. 4, 1940, told of 30 wells driven in 1939, but no successful wells had been found. The Junior Chamber of Commerce |later Jaycees] had hosted a Christmas residential lighting contest and announced the w inners in January. First place went to David Bessmer on Hanover Street. 1 he First Ward prize went to the Russell Smelker farm residence inside the city limits on Woodland Road (Woodlawn Avenue]. Third Ward display honors went to Harold Newton, 811 S. Jefferson. T he Charles Doyle residence on Park Street won the Fourth Ward award. The municipal court established in 1939 was declared-a success. This court handled misdemeanor cases. A fire at lhe old Mixer building on South Jefferson Street caused extensive water and smoke damage, but no one was injured. War news began to become news in the local paper. M. Lambic was named chairman for Barry County to receive and forward gifts to Finland to help them resist Russia. Russia was invading Finland “to protect it from harm.” Finland had different ideas, preferring to protect itself. Local residents were asked to send support. One of the more important issues for the times was a cure for polio. Polio, for people in the 1940s. was a threat just like ?\IDS is today. Polio struck children, generally, and in the summer months. It could be fatal. Survivors were left paralyzed, some having to spend the rest of their lives in an iron lung. In 1939, Michigan had 900 children attacked by the disease. The National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis, belter known now as the March of Dimes, w-as formed to fight polio, and in 1940. there were more than 700 chapters in the Central states. The purpose ot the foundation w as to conquer lhe germ that caused the disease. A cure for polio was finally discovered in 1955. Fifty percent of the money raised in the This photo of P resjdJjonts celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Hastings Women’s Club was published in the Nov. 12, 1953, Banner. paSAr|ntyre-m pictured included (from left) Mrs. Burr Van Houten, of Rocky River. Ohio; Mrs. George Chenoweth ’ Jr.; Mrs. Kenneth r • ’Mrs. M.J. Cross; Mrs. Orie Helm; current president Mrs. Leon Slander; Mrs. Al Brown, of Ann Arbor; < Mrs. Fred Stebbins* ' ng Vedderi Mrs. Keith Chase; Mrs..Laurence Barnett; Mrs. William Bradford; and Mrs. R.E. Wait Jr.„ Mrs. W.R. Cook (c® 9*ve a review of the club’s accomplishments in its 60 years. Living past presidents not in the photo., included Mrs. A.BFort Lauderdale, Fla., Mrs. Robert Walton, of Kalamazoo; Mrs. F.E. Adair; Mrs. Robert Shannon; Mrs.; Robert Cook; Mr5. uOnside of San Diego; and Mrs. C. Duane Bauer. Margaret Barnett, according to the Banner, presented ‘ “Fascinating Glimp5 M°viedom” during a Women’s Club meeting in January 1940. 7 county stayed here to bdPvictims. The olher 50 percent *■*’ , ,0 endow 13 medical schools ?0“ Sixteen hospitals and 14 other iKaith oiganizations were given funds for ^'reh. The Hoy Scouts of Aincnca. Grand valley Council, had been toorgamzed. and Mr. J.S. Knowlton took up residence in Hastings to devote his full time to scouting activities in Bam- County, the city o! Ionia, L-ikc Odessa, Caledonia and LowellUnder “Organizations lhe Women’s Relief Corps, the Women of the Moose, the Rebekah Uxlge, Hastings Townsend Club No. 3. the Catholic Young Peop|e< Circ|e 3 Hastings Women s Christian Temperance Union. Hospital Guild 7 and the Hastings Photo Club all announced their meeting dates. Mrs. L.E. Barnett acted as chair in presenting “Fascinating Glimpses of Moviedom” at the Women s Club meeting. Hastings High School won fourth place in the West Michigan debating tournament, the Jan. 18. l940/?(mntrrcp)rted. Dogs with rabies were found in the vicinity of Nashville, and the paper included an article on a dog quarantine in the county. The Barry County Fair was being discussed, since it had lost money in 1938 and 1939. The Banner reported that if businessmen would cooperate and contribute, the fair board would try to hold another fair. The local banks were trying to solve a dilemma. ITe recently adopted Wagner Wage and Hour Act limited the number of hours employees could work. To comply with regulations, the local banks decided to close at 2:30 p.m. and stay open Saturdays. It was reported that ’Tin management of the banks are convinced that vhile lhe easiest way to meet the situation would be lo close al noon Saturday, that such closing would be an inconvenience to the farmer, merchant, factory employee and others who care to transact business during Saturday afternoon.” Unver “Backward Glances. 50 years ago” was this: When James L. Wilkins’ force of men were grading and filling the street last week, they unearthed seven skeletons and more thought to be from an old burial ground. Wilkins in 1878 owned a croquet factory- on lhe cast side of Creek Street (now Michigan Avenue). The location is believed to be between Apple Street and the Thomapple River. Checks were sent from the county treasurer to the rural county schools. A list of schools in operation and the amounts they received were Printed on Page 1 of the Jan. 25. 1940, Banner. Mrs. Monte (Maud) Smith was the county school commissioner at the time. Michigan PTA celebrated its 43rd anniversary- and Founder’s Day. Mrs. Stowell was president of the Central PTA, and the local group had a membership of 165. HASTINGS CHARTER TOWNSHIP 2020 NOTICE OF BOARD OF REVIEW PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Review will meet at the Township Hall, 885 River Rd.. Hastings, Ml 49058 to examine and review the 2020 assessment roll. The board will convene on the following dates for the hearing of appeals of assessments or taxable values, poverty exemptions, parcel classification appeals and/or current year qualified agricultural denials: Tuesday, March 3, 2020, T.00 pm Wednesday, March 11, 2020, 9:00 am to Noon and 6:00 to 9:00 pm Thursday, March 12, 2020, 9.00 am to Noon and 1:00 to 4:00 pm Organizational Meeting Only And on such additional days as required to hear all persons who have given no­ tice of the desire to be heard until assessment rolls have been revised, corrected and approved. APPEALS ARE HEARD ON FIRST COME FIRST SERVE BASIS; letter appeals will be accepted and must be received no later than 5:00 pm March 6, 2020 Tentative ratios and estimated multipliers for 2019 are as follows: Agricultural 49.40% 1.0121 Commercial 48.51% 1.0307 Industrial 52.42% 0.9538 Residential 47.12% 1.0611 Personal Property 50.00% 1.0000 Tentative equalization factor of 1.0000 for all classes is expect­ ed after completion of Board of Review. Jim Brown, Supervisor - Hastings Charter Township Kevin Harris, Assessor - Hastings Charter Township American with Disabilities (ADA) Notice The township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon seven-(7) days’ notice to Hastings Charter Township. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact Castleton Township by writing or calling. Hastings Charter Township Clerk 885 River Rd. Hastings, Ml 49058 269-948-9690 IF7H ""“““■TWWISfflPW PRAIRIEVILLE . ... .. 2020 NOTICE OF BOARD OF REVIEW PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Review will meet at the Township Hall. 10115 S. Norris Rd. Delton, Michigan 49046, to examine and review the 2020 assessment roll. The board will convene on the following dates for the hearing of appeals of assessments or taxable values, poverty exemptions, parcel classification appeals and/or current year qualified agricultural denials: Tuesday, March 3, 2020,10:00 am Organizational Meeting Wednesday, March 11, 2020,1:00 to 4:00 pm and 6:00 to 9:00 pm Consumers warned of deceptive ‘bank fraud’ alerts Michigan Attorne> General Pana Nefsel is warning Michigan residents to watch out for fraudulent bank alerts following an upltcK in increasingly sophisticated scams. The deceitful scam usually starts with . phone text - coming from their bank alertim.- the receiver to what appears toJbeI he fraudulent use of a his or her debit card, lhe alert appears to be real; f»r "ample: •FREE TEXT from Hftl> Hurd Bank *2579 To continue using your car . p verify this transaction: 02.05 - » Merchant $1632.00- Press Y for Yes or N lor N° ke text or email alert is then followed by ,T !l which appears to be coming •;* Phon‘ ,'R S T.Ko!) customer service ^Jw^rzedrdxiut wither the call " ’ Traditional and Cremation Services • Pre-Planning Sen ices 9 Urge Parking hn - Handicap Accessible * Serving All Faiths * Pre-amuigemcnt Transfers Accepted A JVD-A 4 >> * U***' I h.tk 1 niic* Manager i Listings f is real. the caller even says: “Check on the back of your card and you will see that I am calling from the customer service number listed there. I hat. in fact, is true because the scammer has “spoofed” the customer service number, making it appear as if that is the number from which they are calling. The caller is very professional, Ncssel said, commits to ensuring the fraudulent charges are dropped, then begins to ask questions that eventually lead to an attempt to confirm lhe cardholder’s PIN number. In another instance, the text message is a “ChaseBank notice” warning that “your debit card is temporary locked” (misspelling temporarily), with instruction to call a stated number “for support.” “Do not tail tor these scams.” Nessel said S* Hroadway> Holings, MI 49058 269'945-3^52 • "ww.glrrbachfunvralhoinc. • ,icd and Operated 1 "4> (Miner 1 inrrhii and Surrotuiilloy < <»niiuiniiie5 fOI so years "These criminals arc increasingly clever and conniving and have found yet another way to cheat honest Michigan residents out of their hard-camed money.” . She urged every Michigan resident who gets an email, text or call that is supposedly from his or her bank t° hang Up and call the customer service number on the back of the debit card. That is the only way (0 ensure the caller is who he or she claims to be. In at least some cases, email fraud alerts are easier to spot because the sender’s email address doesn’t match up with the bank’s address. Most customers, however, do not l:»ke the time to verify *he Ender’s address. “Tlie bottom line |!* this: Don’t give a single piece ot personal mfornuaiotl _ Jour birth date, lhe last four dtgiu ()f youj. Social Security number, y°l,r number to anyone who calls,” said. “Hang lip and call back on u numbef you ,ou can verily.” lhe following Cornet Alerts can be found online al Miclufan*<»v/ag: •Caller ID Spooling Text Message Scams: Smis|ling -Hijacking Your I*-’* » ‘-m.ui. anj |nslani Messages: A New Anj’1 0,1 Phishing” Scams Consumers are tnc°u,l‘ged to lile consumer complmn1” |hc Michigan Department 0 qencmj or call 877-765*8388. Thursday. March 12. 2020, 9.00 am to noon and 1:00 to 4:00 pm And on such additional days as required to hear all persons who have given notice of the desire to be heard until assessment rolls have been revised, corrected and approved. APPOINTMENTS ARE SUGGESTED; letter appeals will be accepted and must be received no later than 5:00 pm March 6, 2020 Tentative ratios and estimated multipliers for 2020 are as follows: Agricultural 46.18% 1.0827 Commercial 47.99% 1.0419 Industrial 49.56% 1.0089 Residential 47.35% 1.0560 Personal Property 50.00% 1.0000 Tentative equalization factor of 1.0000 for all classes is expected after completion of Board of Review. Jim Stonebumur. Supervisor Prairieville Township Kevin Harris, Assessor Prairieville Township Prairieville Township Board Meetings are open to all without regard to race, color national origin, sex or disability. American with Disabilities (ADA) Notice The township wilt provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals wilt) disabilities at the meetmg/hearing upon seven (7) days’ notice to Prairieville Township. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact Prairieville Township by writing or calling Rod Goebel Prairieville Township Clerk 10115 S. Norris Rd.. Delton, Ml 49046 • 269*623 2726 r' �Paso 10-Thursday, Fetxwvy 13.2020-Tho Hostmps Banner _ , ■ LCTK gets pair of hat-tncKs in second win over Falcons • ■■ ■ _ ----- -- mutrh-nn match-up. ~ . .inJ Nick UKkhart each Drew i>rcw Klompnrens n ‘ , tallied three goals in the' .’ ,s for The win is the '‘'e'«hXn wind-v down. rhe LCTK skaters as feIJj|ls Cemra| Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Ixmen/CalcdoniafThomappIc Kellogg (LCTK) varsity hockey team completed a sweep of its Kentwood fee Arena roommates from East Kentwood Saturday, w inning 1- ns JX.1 **Hvron Center this evening and travel lo . inhouse to take on Northview Sm * LCTK ,cad 0Vcr lhe ?a’?1 Kentwood through two periods Saturday, and its lead to 7-0 in lhe opening mlnilte .Irihe d»rd Penod as Drew Klomparcns comnbXd a hat-trick 1:56 into the period. p Klomparens akn ^red the first two goals of the contest in 1 ’first c»ght minutes of the first period. pouma and Dominic Huver assisted On his opening goaI lWO and a half minutes jnto.!'* nlOtch. Owen Carpenter notched the 0(1 Klomparens second goal. Lockhart got his first g031 off an assisl from Massimo PicciOnc a minute after Klomparens second goal. Dylan Olsen lackcd on a goal in the final minute of that opening IKriod lo Push his team’s lead to 44/ 0|ng in unassisted after an EK turnover. Olsen then assis!ed on both second period goals by Lockhart The two scores came six seconds apart about four minutes into the period. Lowell/Caledonia/Thornapple Kellogg’s Nick Lockhart skates in for a shot late in the third period of his team’s 7-2 win over East Kentwood at Kentwood Ice Arena Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Beavers best Saxon boys in 1-8 bowling dual ' Harper Creek edged the Hastings varsity boys’ bowling leam 18-12 at Hastings Bowl Tuesday. Gage Richmond and John Hinkle had a couple strong games each for the Saxons. Hinkle rolled a 189 and a 198. Richmond scored a 200 and a 183. Kyler Madden also contributed a 157 for their leam. The Hastings boys split the two Baker con­ tests w'ith the Beavers, getting a win with a 164 game. The Saxons arc scheduled lo return lo action this afternoon against Parma Western Lowell/Caledonia/Thornapple Kellogg forward Ryan Kielszewski fires a pass off the boards from his knees as East Kentwood’s Matt Coe looks on dunng their Baum Division match-up at Kentwood Ice Arena Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ' Viking boys pull away from Maple Valley in second half A three-pointer by junior Lane Morris was the only field goal the Lakewood varsity boys’ basketball team allowed the Maple . Valley boys in the third quarter of their Greater Lansing Activities Conference con­ test al Lakewood High School Tuesday. The Lakewood boys stretched a three-point halftime lead to ten points in that third quarter and then went on to a 52-42 victory, their '. second of the season over the Lions. Jacob Elenbaas led Lakewood with 20 points. He knocked dow n three three-pointers in the contest. The Vikings also got eight points each from Denny Sauers and Kacden Tuitman added eight points each and Brady Gawne had seven points. The Lions got 13 points from Morris, who hil there threes in the ballgame, and 12 points from Curtis Walker. Walker had eight of his points in the first quarter, going 4-of-4 from lhe free throw line. Lakewood moves to 7-7 overall this season with the victory, and has now won three straight ballgames and four of five. The Vikings also knocked off Olivet 57-47 in GLAC action last Friday. The Vikings are 5-1 in the GL/XC this season. The Vikings host Hastings for a non-conferencc bailgame Saturday and then will be off until a home GLAC match-up with Stockbridge Feb. 21. Maple Valley is now 3-11 overall this sea­ son and 0-8 in the GLAC. The Lions scored a 62-44 win at GalesburgAugusta last Friday. Maple X'alley is on the road for its next few ballgames, at Perry Friday, at Lansing Christian Tuesday and then at Leslie Feb. 21. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 . . ’ 7 Help Wanted BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements. Dis­ count for Seniors & Veterans. 269-320-3S90._____________ NEEDED IMMEDIATELYPAYEE Representative for a Guardian'Payee Compa­ ny. For more information please cal! 517-852-0352. MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. * . . PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: liusiness Services BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. Automotive 03 HONDA PILOT, leather, good condition inside, needs motor. Asking $1,500 OBO. 269-838-6590. All real eitatc Mhcrtiiing in thi« newspaper is lubjccr to the Fair Housing Ail and the Michigan Chil Rigid Act which ci>Hecliir!) make it illegal to edicrtite "anj preference, limitation ut ditcrimination Kncd «*n race, color, religion, sex. handicap, familial tfatva, nafiona! origin, ape or martial ititus. at an intention, io nuke an> sveh pretcrerce, limitation <h dikrimmation.’* tamthal status includes children under the ape nf IX living ssith parents <rr legal custodian*, prepnint ssomen and pcvp.'.e sccf.'ing cu*tod> cf children under lx This news paper *41 t«x knowing^ accept any advertising for real ertste svhicli is in violation of the law Our readers arc hereby informed (tut a!) dwellings ad'CrttiLl in this ncwifMper are available on an equal cpportun.ty bases Tn rejxwt discrimination call ths Fa r Housing Center at 616-tJI 29X0. The HI D toll tree telephone number for the bearing impaired is I-WJO-927-927S or* Donald Lee Hampton III, 24, of Nashville, was convicted ofyissessing a controlled sub­ stance, methaipphdniine, in Nashville on Jan. 14,2018.and satenccd by Judge Vicky Alspaugh to 53 daysh jail, with credit for 53 days served. His drive’s license was suspend­ ed for 30 days and restricted for 150 days. He was ordered to pay 5858 in fines and costs and placed on probation for 18 months, with a probation fee of $180. A second charge of possession of acontroiled substance, Addcrall, w-as dismissed. Brian Hugh Milts Jr., 24. of Grand Rapids, was convicted of possessing weap­ ons, possessing ammunition and assault with a dangerous weapon. He was sentenced by Judge Michael Schipper to 38 to 60 months in prison on the weapons and ammunition con­ victions and 32 to 48 months in prison on the assault conviction, to be served concurrently, with credit for 104 days served. He was ordered to pay $1,004 in fines and costs. A charge of committing a felony with a firearm was dismissed. Justin Michael Nesbitt, 30, of Hastings, was convicted of first-degree home invasion on North Jefferson Street Sept. 25. 2019. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to 24 to 180 months in prison, with credit for 133 days served. He was ordered to PaY 5998 in fincs and costs. A second count of second-degree home invasion was dismissed. Jason Paul Raak, 28, of Hastings, was convicted of unlaw fully driving away a motor vehicle Nov. 27,2019 in Hastings, as a habit­ ual offender and sentenced by Judge Schipper. He was ordered t0 serve 36 to 90 months in □ARRY COUNTY. MICHIGAN at JAX 60 in Jackson, and then will be home again Tuesday to take on Marshall in more Interstate-8 Athletic Conference duals. The Hastings teams were outside the league Monday to take on Plainwell at Hastings Bowl, and both the Saxon boys’ and girls’ teams scored victories over the visiting Trojans. The Hastings boys scored a 22-8 win. Hinkle rolled a 209. Richmond scored a 215 and a 194. Madden added a 196 and a 182 for their team. Cam Eaton contributed a 172 as well. prison, with credit for 62 days served, and to pay $398 in fines and costs. A charge of assaulting a police officer was dismissed. In a separate case, Raak was convicted of stealing a financial transaction device Sept. 21, 2019, in Castleton Township. He was found guilty of being a habitual offender and was sentenced lo 36 to 72 months in prison, with credit for 63 days. He also was ordered to pay $818 in fines and costs, including $420 in restitution. charge of breaking and enter­ ing a vehicle to steal was dismissed. In a third case. Raak was convicted as a habitual offender of unlawfully driving away a motor vehicle and second-degree home invasion on Pritchardvillc Road Nov. 24, 2019. He W'as sentenced by Judge Schipper to serve 36 to 90 months in prison on lhe motor vehicle count and 88 to 270 months on lhe second-degree home invasion charge, with credit for 62 days served. Counts of first-de­ gree home invasion, breaking and entering a building with unlawful intent, two counts of larceny in a building were dismissed. He was ordered to pay $4234 in fines and costs, including $3,800 in restitution. The prison terms are concurrent. Larry Roger Walker, 31. of Grand Rapids, was convicted of two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, a pistol, and interfering with an electronic communications device, as a habitual offender, in Yankee Springs Township Aug. 30, 2019. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to 36 to 96 months on the assault charges and 24 to 48 months on the interfering with an electronic communica­ tions conviction. The terms are concurrent. He was ordered to pay $1,134 in fines and costs. February 11,2020 Ctvon undor Public IQS of the Public Acta of Michigan. 1971 EQUALIZATION RATIOS AND MULTIPLIERS BY CLASSIFICATION Aw»cs.’,ment Agricultural Commercial Industrial JunMl'.Ction TOWNSHIP Afisyrto Baltimoro B<arry Carlton Cot-tcton Hautinga Hope: hvmej John-.‘<jv.n Mephi Grov« 4*2'93%" -Mult— Mult___ _ Ratio Raitio 14647" 57.82%"“ o'B94G- 42 47% Pr jliir.u lk» RutUrvd Thornapplfl Woodlarvl Ynnkase Sprh igs 43 37% 40.66% 64.(Xe% 45 47% 40 40% 43 05% 40.10% 43.08% 46/41% 44.64% 46.16% 46.06% 61 4b% 46.05% 47 60/m 1.1529 1 006B 0 0244 1 0996 1 OI21 1 1377 1.2441 1 0393 1 0323 1 1201 1.0627 1.0643 0 0716 1.0406 1 0460 Crty 0fHa«WY1» to 17% O.trtWfl Ofongevillci 46 04% 43 OQ% 67 05% 48.31% 48.51% 44 03% 5£> CO/o 67 16% 44 27% 47.83% 47 99% 47.32% 48.38% 45.37% 40 20% Mult Residential __ Ratio 1.0860 1.1628 0 8764 1 0350 1 0307 1.1128 0 8983 0.6747 1.1294 1.0464 1.0410 1 0566 1 0341 1.1020 1.0801 46.94% 44 46% G3 81% 53 03% 52X2% 43.93% 53 60% 43 68% 47.6G% 46.06% 49 56% 64 07% 47 20% 52.22% 53.96% 1.1773 1 0052 1.1246 0.7830 0.9429 0.9538 1.1382 0 9313 1.1447 1.0491 1.0404 1.CO89 0.0140 1.0580 0.9575 0 92CO 44.75% 44.98% 47.89% 45.68% 46 45% 47.12% 45.77% 47.03% 40.72% 44.46% 48.46% 47.35% 47.63% 47.57% 46 69% 49.12li 1.0130 46 1.0743 40.30% 10 Sc-'S.O'' 1 \IA of tr.« P.chlflttet Cmvcewt Pretty Tux Ln*, tho foUcanns i»t*iunwnt H Out:’ sUwl Msowmg nquwU’sixjn and rnvtop1 o-i to criniputu ind v.Oual »nt« rquat zc l valuation foe r***l un-1 property (<j< 50/u TutvotTiy O. Vwr.'wfrnu.,.. ( qushzaV'an DucsXv Wf^CtrtovCf Developmental - Ratio Mult Personal Ratio The two teams split the Baker games, with the Saxons taking the second with a 210. The Hastings girls won 29-1, getting ail ten points from victories in the two Baker games and then winning the two regular games and total pinfall too. Daisy Kerby scored a 209 for the Saxons, adding a 181 as well during her match-play contests. Connie Ricketts rolled a 199 and a 157 for the Saxons*. Andrea Rhodes had scores of 181 and 172. Ashland Hoyt chipped in a 192 for the Saxons. Trojaos9 VanDemark just shy of spot in DI state ski finals The Plainwell/Thomapple Kellogg co-op Trojan Ski team team competed in an MHSAA Regional for the first time Tuesday, with the Trojan girls placing ninth in lhe H-team Division 1 Regional Meet at Cannonsburg. Trojan skier Lucy VanDemark came up just short of qualifying for next week’s Division 1 State Finals with a 17th-place finish in the giant slalom (GS). The day’s top three teams earned spots in the state finals, along w ith the top ten racers in both the slalom and GS events. 'Hie top four skiers in each event not on the three slate qualifying teams earn a spot in the state finals, regardless of a top ten finish. VanDemark was the fifth placer GS not a member of the top three girls' teams overall Tuesday. Traverse City Central captured the girls' regional championship with just 545 points, finishing second in the slalom behind Marquette but comfortably in first in the GS. Marquette was second overall with 615 points and Forest Hills Northcm/Eastem third with 112 points. Traverse City West placed fourth with 155 points, ahead of Grand Haven/Blaek River 181, Okemos 229. Rockford 237.5. Portage Centrnl/Northem 271. Trojan Ski 3153. Kalamazoo United 395 and Saginaw Heritage 400. VanDeMark was in 14th place in the GS standings after her first run in the race, earn­ ing a time of 2637 seconds. Her second run was faster, at 25.85. but 27th among all the second run tunes and three competitors over­ took her tn the final GS standings including Portage s Abtgml Liddell and Grand Haven/ GduaUtT r ^en NykamP wh° indi'■dual slate finals spots Forest Hilts’ Holly Grzelak was lhe GS 24T7Pm’h“r ihC 'by Wi,h M ->412 on her'hC T* 'ime down ,he hil1 Z* ,ron.htr second run. Nagel puTleth 'iTr “'n ''ad M1,dison a,,d Mutt 1.1116 1-0484 1 094S 1 0764 1.0011 1-0024 1 0403 1 OOfJe 1-1246 1.03ib toseo 10408 10511 1.O7Q® 1 017® 50 00% 50.00Ct> 50.00% 50.00% 50.00% 50 00°,i 50 00% 50.00% 50 00% 50 OOSi. 50.00% 50.00% 50.00% 50 00% 5000% 50 00% 1.0000 1.O0CO 1 0000 1 0000 1.0000 1 0000 1 0000 1.0000 1.0000 1 0000 1.0000 t.ocoo 1.0000 1.0000 t 0009 1 0000 1 077® 50.00% 1.0000 with runsX^ "J 37^ 28.14 and 31 $5 . ',on "■ ,n»ing with runs of second with'tim ’ r ^an,ma,c Ainsley Kirk Nagel in 45th nl., ! ?>Jan leam als0 55th. ‘ c' ”owaid 54th and Bacon onship jnhe b°ys’ re?ional champi- lhc GS and sla|Om P°,nts; coring 20 in each was second with 7. rravefse City West Black River thhvi Vlnls a,hl G™d Haven' ’lhe i U1,rd*nh P2 the hosts fron. rEastern placed fe Forest Hills Northern1’ Traverse Citv r. ^7 jwinis and 1285 points ;n th» ra W:u Behind with The DivisiOn |LJCnte‘un boys’ standings. B°yne High|andj* Fina,s w*ll be held at �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. February 13. 2020 — Page 11 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate . .,LE NO. 20-23423-DE 07/02/1933 J°hn G' RoWn5on- D3,° of b!r1h: legal NOTICES Notice of Foreclosure by Ate/orfi™.,-. Notte is given under sect,’X* < ™ w ol ,961.1961 PA 2M MCL^OOPn rvit the fol’owing mortg3qft w.il hk <« . Tho'^tTSS ot i“ i r°X7£ 7;Tr r,hc ”* 01 “* PM. on Fetxwry so. 202a > I , ■<- ihe ourch”* ', tfe no' OTtcmattcaUy entity the purchaser to free anq clear ownersh-o of purch336r « encouraged to contact the county register ot deeds office or a title c; •"* »£ NarneiS) of the mortgagor^): Adnan C. Endsley a ‘ manned man J ' -■■■?SL-hM^9a5!M: te,»' Electronic _• Reg3trat*on Systems. Inc Fcrecies-ng Assignee (it any); AmenF.rot Financial Corporation Date of Mortgage: October 26.2016 Date of Mortgage Record ng- November 17.2016 Amount earned due on date o' notice: $101,555.28 Dcscr.ption of the mortgaged premises: Situated h C ty o. Hastings, Barry County. Michigan. and desenbed as: Let 5 cf Block C of Chamberlain^ addition to the City. Formerly Village of Hastings, firry County, Michigan, accord ng to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Libor 1 cf Plats, page 7. Common street address (if any/: 236 W Nelson St Hastings. Ml 49058-2556 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, un’ess determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 6C0.3241 ?„• or, if the subject real . property is used for agncultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240:16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 cf the Revised Judicature Act cf 1951 pursuant to MCL 6C0.3278 the borrower w.'l be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the ■ mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder . for damaging the property curing the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a m<: tary service member cn active duty, if your penod cf active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago. or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for tno party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in tris notice. This notice is from a deb: collector. Date of notice: January 23. 2020 Trott Law. P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Suite 145 Farmmgtcn Hills. Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1407311 (01-235*02-13) 135853 FORECLOSURE NOTICE Attent.-on home-awner: if you are a m iJary service member on active duty, if ycL'- period cf active duty , has concluded less than 90 days ano, or it you ' have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. NotiOA ol foreclosure by advertisement. Notice is given under section 3212 of tha revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236. MCL 600 3212, that the . following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder tor cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the . circuit court in Barry County, start ng promptly at 01:00 PM. February 27, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater cn the day of the sale. Placing tiio highest bid at the sale doos not •/ automatically entitle the purchaser to free and dear . ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which • may charge a fee for this information. Default has •i been made in the conditions of a certain mortgage made by Richard S Saylor Jr. a mnrned man to r Fifth Third Mortgage - Ml. LLC. Mortgagee, dated May 15, 2015, and recorded on June 5, 2015. as ' Document Number; 2015-005592, Barry County iJ Records, said mortgage was asegned to Fifth Third Bank. National Association, successor to ? Fifth Third Bank, as successor by merger to Filth Third Mortgage Company by an Assignment of Mortgage dated July 29, 2015 and recorded August 05, 2015 by Document Number: 2015'• 007715, on which mortgage there is claimed to be • due at the date hereof tho sum of One Hundred j Ten Thousand Seven Hundred Seventy-Four and f■ 29/100 (5110,774 29/ including interest a! the ' rate of 3.37500% per annum. Said premises are situated in the Township of Assyria, Barry County. Michigan, and are described as: Bcq nnlng at tho northwest corner of the east half of lhe southwest quarter of section 2G. town 1 north, range 7 west; thence south along tho west line of said cast half ' of the southwest quarter, 773 feet: thence east at r' right angles to said west line 295 feet to the true place of beginning: tnence east 426 feel: thence • north parallel with said west line of the east half cf ■ the south-west quarter a distance of 365 feet more or Jess to lhe centerline cf Jones Road; thence northwesterly aiong said centerline 518 feet more cr less to a point which lies east 295 feet from said • west line of the east half of the southwest quarter; thence soutn parallel with sa-d west i ne 659 feo . more or less to tha pe nt of beginning. Subject to ement over tno northeasterly 33 feet thereof fcr cub’ - highway purposes. Commonly known "■ 9350 E JONES HD. BELLEVUE. M> 49021 litho ixooertv is eventually sold al loteclosure sale, he EXphon pehod will be 6 00 months rom the Se o? unless the property rt abandoned or used ^or5 agricultural purposes It the ALL CREDITORSr T0 CRSOrrORS; The decedent. John r°5?Son- 012/17/2019. rinwn » Of ,he decedent are notified that all 1 a a9<hnst the estate wi’l bo forever barred unless presented to Gordon Shane McNeill. P'-ri.onai representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street, S1e. 302, Hastings. Miclugan 49058 and the persona! representative witnm 4 months after the date of publication of this not»ce. Date: 02/11/2020 Gordon Shane McNeill RO. Box 395 Hastings, Michigan 49058 269-818-7599 137263 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Not ce Is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961.1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will bo foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding the circuit court In Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on March 12, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at tho sale docs not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser Is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds off.ee ot a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this Information: Namefs) of the mortgagor(s): Luther F. Smith Jr., a married man and Melissa Smith, his wife Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for AmenFirst Financial Corporation its successors and assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): AmeriFirst Financial Corporation Date of Mortgage: September 6. 2012 Date of Mortgage Recording. September 13, 2012 Amount cia-med due on date of notice: S145.890.60 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Village of Middleville. Barry County. Michigan, and described as: Lot 71, Misty R'dge No 3, Village of Middieviiie, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats. Page 53. Barry County Records. Common street address of any): 663 Green Meadows Dr, Middleville. Ml 49333-8180 The redemption period shall be G months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600 3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Jud oature Act of 1961. pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsib’c- to the person who buys tho property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redempt on period. Attention homeowner: If you aro a military service me-'.-tcr on acth-u duly, J ycur pericd of active duty has concluded less than 00 days ago. or ,f > cu have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: February 13, 2020 Trott Law, PC. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hit’s, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1409798 (02-13/(03-05) 137295 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the rev.sed judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the fol’owing mortgage v.i1; be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, cr some part of them, at a public auction sale to tho highest b:ddcr for cash or cashier’s check at tee place of ho’dmg the circuit court in Barry Ccunty, starting promptly at 1:00 PM. cn February 20, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the h-ghest bid at the sale dees not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact tee county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may change a fee for this information: Name's) of the mortgagees): Daniel Loe Schu.tman an unmarried man Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems. Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee •or lender and lender's successors and/or assigns Forec'osmg Assignee (if any): AmeriFirst Financial Corporation Date of Mortgage; August 6,2018 Date cf Mortgage Record.ng: August 13.2018 Amojr.t claimed due on date of notice: $129,345.05 fh*,?'0” f?Iha mon92ged premises: Situated in Charter Townsh p of Rutland, Barry County. Michigan and described as: A parcel of land located m th > Nortfteam 1/4 of Section 11. Town 3 North. Range 9 West, Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan described as follows: Beg nning at a point on the center line of Old M-37 which lies South 00 degrees 0o m notes 20 seconds East 433.26 feet and South ^9 degrees 33 minutes 20 seconds East 1056.01 feet from the North 1/4 post of said Section 11; thenoj Soutn j9 degrees 26 m.nutes 40 seconds West 189.0 ^tAtoiC7^1?°nh 50 deflrees 33 routes 20 seconds Wca> 217.69 ,eet; thence North 32 degrees 19 minutes 0° -csondus fast 190 47 feet to the center of saW To? 50010 M d^fee- 33 "-‘Wtes 20 seconds East 241.32 feet to the place cf beginning hX any)-2437 w The redemption period shall be G months from the date cf such sa’e. unless determined abandoned in accordance witn MCL 600.3241a; or. if the subject re? after 5la'^°r^sumrrj' l0 be used for agricultural property 4S P lhQ Of me foreclosure sale purposes P 60g\i?40 th._. redemption penod pursuant to MU 32/F if the property b, ye3f. Pursuarn .0MGL6M .321 15 sold at a fr; be held property at tbu mortgage holdtr for the redemption ^rson who ouys the > ‘ foreclosing mortg<.g - - - taecloMO sale or to the tng tf1y property during PURCHASERS: rn»fRf.c;nd the sale. In that { interest. Dated: 8 Associates. RC. NationalAs’oOC'ation.as successor by Company 4X& Btoomliuld Hito. 8 00a.m. 5:00pm- limited solely to ot sal-, Randall S. M'k’cr event youf the return of the 0 for Fifth Thud Bank, Fi,th Th'rJ Ba ‘'~Q pjJth Third Mcrtg^Je Avenue, Suite t80. (Z™ 335-92OT Hours. 18MIOO5M-1 * • 1365iv 101-30X02-20) property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL GOO 3240(16). ncd If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapic-r 32 cf the Revised Judicature Act of 1961 pursuant to MCI 600.3276 lhe borrower will be hek) response e lo tho person who buys tee property at th« mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage hoidulor damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner, if you are a m .iary service member on active duty, if yg.jr pt-f.gq ct ,-1CVvt. J has concluded z, than 90 days ago. u< J yCu hjw' been ordered lo active duty. p^. contact Jh Btlc'nuy fry the party torwJosing me mortgage lrr" telephone number stated in Uns nonce. * ’ This notice ts from a debt collector. Date o' notice. January 23, 2020 Trott l aw. PC. 31449 Northwestern Hwy, Suite ’45 Fiirm-ngton H •! Mt 48331 (246) 642-2515 1407033 (01-23X02 13) 135829 cPo%& NOT’C^jnl* E.Ma|JRs FlLf Estate of cnfi’"nt NOTICE 10 Christine O. Ande,. ' of birth: <l«do'/Otr/(j; tteccdmt, ’'e Jg.?’ Creditors of |h' p5pie *1'1 lh-‘t all claims against tne Ano^. barred unless presented 'and Thoma.. Androson, PcfS0,LvCourt s.._ [° botfl tho probate court at 2^nai rep Hastings, Ml 49058 and th* Qpublica^; Within 4 months after tire da”? of this notice. Date: 2/11/2020 Nathan E. Tagg P08­ 202 South BroaO>W Hastings. Ml 49058 ,269) 9aa-2W0 Eric Anderson and >' 525 West An* , 9515 e «> M,49 WOT stree, Hsatings, Ml “V033, (616)881-3273 137288 Notice of Notice Is g'tfcn^ ,961 PA?4 ?,?tha rev'God judicature act of Lgo will h!’IJCL,600-3212that the following ^^pternisai , OrccI°5(-‘d by a sale of the mortgageeip < °rJ°mo pn,t cf them, at a public auctc^ 0 ’^e highest bidder for cash or casft^^^Cou^^'^ of holding the circuit court in BJX \ -parting promptly at 1:00 PM, on Marcn • u The amount due on the mortgage may ter on ih0 day of sale. Placing the sa’G does not automatically entitle thi F Ser to freo and clear ownership of the P'OP^' _p°:entia> Purchaser is encouraged to contact »w»ty register of deeds office or a t.tla insurance company, G.:thcr 0( which maycha.goafee<ortM'"'^l.on: Name(s) cf tho rncrt37n5')- J°G*Ph A. Guerin, a mamed man joined by A ^rea J. Guerin, his wife Original Mortgage Mortgage Electrons Registration Systems, me. as mortgagee, as nominee for lender a"a ienaCfs successors and/ or assigns Foreclosing Ass’gneo I any): Home Point Financial Corporation Date of Mortgage: October 27,2017 Date of Mortgage Recording; November 3. 2017 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $188,786.07 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Johnstown* Barry County, Michigan, and described as: A parcel of land in the Southwest 1/4 of Section 36, Tovm 1 North, Range 8 Wes, described as being a parcel 205 feet East and West by 213 feet North and South in the Southwest corner of said Southwest 1/4 Common street addrets (if any): 15995 Waubascon Rd, Battle Creek. Ml 49014-4100 Tho redemption perron shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is edd at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Jud caturo Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 6003278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at tne mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. . Attention homcownenttyou are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago. or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated In this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: February 13. 2020 Trott Lav/, PC. 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) 6-12-2515 1409318(02-13)(03-05) 137022 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961. 1961 PA 236. MCL 600.3212. that tho fol’owing mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on February 20, 2020. The amount duo on the mortgage may be greater cn the day of sale. Placing the highest b.d at the sa’e does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county reg-ster of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortg-t9or(s): Robert Peper, a married man • Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Reg stration Systems. Inc. ss mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns Date of Mortgage Recording: May 22.2017 Amount da'med due on date of notice: $175,822.29 Description of the mod9a9ed premises: Situated in Township of Barry. Bany County, Michigan, and described as: Commenc;ng »n the center of tho road where Manning Lake Road Intersects the East and West 1/81 ne of the South«-15t 1/4 of Section 1. Town 1 North, Rang.3 9 We5t, fry a P'ace Of beginning, thence Ncrtn along thjkenter o< said road 36 rods, thence due West 22-t/Trods, thence South to said East and West 1/8 ! ne, thence East 22-1/4 rod3 a)ong sa[d |jn(j to the plate Of beginning. Common street addres5 W any); i0540 Mann|ng Lake Rd, Df^n. Ml 49046 $603 The redemption penod sha i be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a; Ofi jf fho sub{(JCt real Property !5 used for aflr**nura Purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). It »fte property is sc’d 3‘ ^edosure sale under Chapter 32 cf the Revis^ Act Qf ig61 Pursuant to MCL 600.327^ the borrower will be held yt lJ)C< mortgage foredosure S3‘L °r 0 'ft® mortgage holder for damag.ng tne prop** Paring tha ,edefnpt}on period. Attention homeowner' f ><>•’ are a mtI|ta service member w active duty. Ped^ of has concluded less then 90 day5 ago Qf f djty hjwe Pct-n ordered to pk.asa conUcl thy attorney fOr the party n9 the mortgage at the telephone number slatedu'-s r,Ot,co J This nol-co is from a Co:;fect0r Date of notice: JanuaY • • 2°2Q Trott Law. PC. 31440 Northwestern Farn nglon Hill-;. Ml 48334 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement. Notice 15 given under section 3212 of tho revised judicature act of 1961.1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212. that the following mortgage will be forec'o-sed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to !ho highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding thu circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1 ;00 PM, on March 05, 2020. The amount due on thu mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE: Mortgagorfs): Tammy J. Bcrdeau, a single woman Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. fMERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender s successors and assigns Dato of mortgage: July 6. 2017 Recorded cn July 10, 2017, in Document No. 2017-006882, Foreclosing Assignee (if any): AmeriHome Mortgage Company, LLC Amount claimed to be due at the date hereof: One Hundred Thirty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Six and 52/100 Dollars ($133,406.52) Mortgaged premises: Situated In Barry County, and described as: Lot 110. Midd’eville Downs No. 5. Village of Middleville. Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats. Barry County Records. Commonly known as 210 Meadowlark Ct, Middleville, Ml 49333 The redemption penod will be G months from the date of such sale, unless abandoned under MCL 600.3241a. in which case the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of such sale, or 15 days from the MCL 600.3241 a'b) notice, whichever is later; or unless extinguished pursuant to MCL 600 3238. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of Act 236 of 1961. under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys tho property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago. or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing tho mortgage at the telephone number stated In this notice. AmeriHome Mortgage Company, LLC Mortgagee/ Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman PC. 23938 Research Dr, Suite 3C0 Farmington Hills, Ml 48335 248.539.7400 1409109 (02-06)(02-27) Representative. Plaintiff, vs. ANGELA GOMBAR, JOHN CORSIGLIA, JAMES CORSIGL1A. and JEREMY CORSIGUA, and/ or OTHER UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JOHN LEE CORSIGLIA and THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JOHN V. CORSIGUA. Defendants ------------------------------- ——--------------David H Tripp (P29290) Tripp & Tagg. Attorneys at Law 202 South Broadway Hastings. Michigan 49058 (269)945-9585 •" ™ enteb-d ca?e IT IS ORDERED teat Defendants sbX 3 Notice Ol mutest .n the uol puperty located in Yankee spring* Tovmsh.p Batry C-unty. Mic^nto^.^^^ 135878 pwT ACCOROINGTO WE RECORDEDPtATWREOF AMn mo RIH 20 FEET 0F L0T 7,‘ U‘ PARKFRS LAKEWOOD PLAT NO. 1 ACCORDING TO TOE RECORDED FLAT THEREOF. ALL BEING mp™fthF NORTHEAST SECTION 30. TOWN JAmI£uT^aI5’-F 10 WEST. ALSO GRANTING THET^ = ESS AND EGRESS OVER I^tA^onAnwAY FROM PUBLIC HIGHWAY A?1 NOW l A?D OUTTO AND FROM THESE LOTS WRH OTHER LOT OWNERS AND ALSO OVER PASSWaV LOT NO 77 TO THE SHORE OT GUN ^pfrcelNo (td-lu-lEO OZO-OO By ?he 26tn day ot Ma-th. 2020. to assert any , ,n and to tho above described property. II Dolendants tail to do so that shall convtuto a d.full in the above enbtlted matter and on the ?7 h d«"pi March. 2020. at 9:00 ockxtk .n the I thv. - rn irt shall lake proofs and shal Aminate whatever interest the Unknown Heirs of Jahn Lee Cors'dUa andtor Angela Combat, John Coretalia.'James CotsigM. Jeremy Corsiglia and/or other unknown he rs nt John V Coragha. Defendant named herein, anchor al' other Defendants named n,.,e.n who may bo unab'e to bo served, that lhe above named DeVndants may have t.i and to lhe above desentw1 P'c'x’rtV “nloss a No'ice of interest tn the real property oruntess Defendant:, or th,?r.epres«ttalive appear on that data Dratted by David H fripplP^’30 Attorney al Law 202 South Brev.dv ay Hastings Ml 49068 (269.1945-9585 Synopsis Orangeville Township Board Meeting Feb. 4, 2020 Meeting ca’led to order 7 pm. A>l board members present. Trustee Penna absent wite notice Commissioner Conner Drain Commissioner Jim Du’1, and 15 guests. Pledge of Allegiance Motion approved Jan. 7th BCRC Annual meetrng minutes Motion approved Jen 7th board meeting minutes Motion approved paying of thebirfs Department reports Motion approved lo calendar change-) Motion approved to reschedule final budge: pub'c hearing Public Comment: Austin Marsman canddatn Martin Schoo! Board Nev/ Business; Marsh Road Ccnstruction/Sidewaik Old Business: Mill Pond tabled Boa-d Comment: None Motion fo adjourn, meeting adjourned 8.05 pm Submitted by: Me! R;snef/Clerk Attested to by: Tom Rook/Supm-isor 13G931 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 cf tee revised judicature act of 1961.1961 PA 235. MCL600.3212. that the foliowing mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of tno mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sa'e to the highest b dder for cash or cashier's check at tee p'.ace of hold ng the circuit court in Bam/ County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM. on March 05. 2020. The amount duo on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the h’ghest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office cr a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE: Mortgagor(s)- Perry Ramsey and Diane Ramsey, husband and wife Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. CMERS"). solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns Date cf mortgage: June 22, 2007 Recorded on July 2, 2007, in Document No. 1182474, Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Nev/ Residential Mortgage, LLC Amount claimed to be due at the date hereof: Seventy-Nine Thousand Two Hundred Ninety-One and 32/100 Dollars ($79,291.32) Mortgaged premises: Situated in Barry County, and described as: A parcel of land in the West 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 26. Town 3 North, Range 8 West, described as: Commencing at a point in the center of the Highway 220 feet North of the intersection of M-79 with the Highway leading North in the Village of Quimby: thence East 175 feet; thence North 80 feet; thence West 175 feet; thence South 60 feet to the place of beginning. Commonly known as 2941 Dusty Lane, Hastings, Ml 49058 The redemption period will be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless abandoned under MCL 600.3241a. in which case the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of such sale, or 15 days from the MCL6C0.3241a(b) notice, whichever is later; or unless extinguished pursuant to MCL 600.3238. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of Act 236 of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property dunng the redemption period. Attention homeowner. It you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago. or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. New Residential Mortgage LLC Mortgagee/Assignee Schne-derman & Sherman P.C. 23938 Research Dr, Suite 309 Farmington Hilts, Ml 48335 248.539.7400 1409105 (02-06X02-27) 136856 136862 STATE OF MICHIGAN BARRY COUNTY TRIAL COURT CIRCUIT DIVISION ORDER TO ANSWER HON. VICKY L ALSPAUGH FILE NO. 20-45-CH ESTATE OF RICHARD EARL HARROUN III. By Norma Christine Harroun. its Personal Vicky L. Alspaugh 145 !246)642-2515 1407132 W-23hQ2 13) birth. 07/16/1938. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS. The decedent, Elizabeth Jeanmtn Becker, died 12/14/2019. Creditors of the decedent are notified mat al! claims against the estate will bo forever barred unless presented to Alan Totten, personal representative, or to both lhe probate court at 206 West Court Street. Hastings. Ml 49Q58 and the personal representative within 4 month-; after the dato of publication of this notice Date: 2/5./2020 Shane A. Henry P82054 121 Was! Apple Street, Suite 101 Hastings. Michigan 49058 (269)945-3512 Alan Totten 4654 W. M-179 Hwy. Hastings. Michigan 49058 (269)320-3723 137148 CORSIGUA, JAMES CORSIGUA. JEREMY CORSIGLIA. AND/OR THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JOHN LEE CORSIGUA AND WE UNKNOWN HE.RS OF Foreclos’ng Assignee (if any): MidFtrst Bank Date of Mortgage: May 17,2017 respensib'e to tne person wno buys the p STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent s Estate FILE NO. 20-23439-DE Estate of Elizabeth Jeanette Becker. Data of NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sa'e may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any. shall be trailed so'ely to return of tne frd amount tendered at sale, p’us Interest. NOTICE CF FORECLOSURE BY ADVERTISEMENT. Notice is g ven under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 RA236, MCL 600.3212. that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by 3 sale of the mortgaged promises, cr some part of them, at a pub,;c auction sale to the highest b-cdef for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding tne circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 P.M., on Apr.! 2.2020. The amount due on tee mortgage may be greater on tho day cf the sale. Placing tee h’ghest bid at the sale does not automatically enf.tle tee purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property-. A potor.tal purchaser is encouraged to contact tee county register of deeds office cr a title insurance company, e tee- cf which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE SALE­ Default has been made in the conditions cf a mortgage made by John E. Mays, the mortgagorfs), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for American Financial Resources, Inc., its successors and ass-gns. the cng nal mortgagee, dated June 15. 2015. and recorded on June 24. 2015. as Instrument Number 2015-006224. in Barry County- Reccr-js. Michigan and las! assigned to American Financial Resources, Inc., a New Jersey Corporation, the loreclos-ng assignee, as documented by a Corporate Assignment cf Mortgage dated January 27, 2020, and recorded on January 29. 2020, as Instrument Number 2020-001079, in Bx-ry County Records. M chigan. on which mortgage there is claimed fo be due and owing as cf tee date cf ih s Not ce. the sum of One Hundred Seventeen Thousand Two Hundred Fifteen and 342100 U.S Do laro ($117,215.34) SaiJ mortgaged premises is situated at 282 West Carlton Center Road, Hast ngs Michigan 49056 tn the Township o' Ca-ncn, Baray Ccunty. Mchgan. and is described as. LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSH P OF CARLTON. COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHICAT4; COMMENCING AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF THE WEST 1/2 Or THE SOUTHEAST V4 OF SECTION 18. TOWN 4 NORTH. RANGE 8 WEST THENCE NORTH 12 RODS 6 FEET THENCE WEST 15 RODS 11 FEET. THENCE SOUTH 12 RODS 6 FEET: THENCE FAST 15 RODS 11 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING Pie redemption period 9haB bt, 6 months (1B0 Days’; from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned m accordance witn MCI.A 600 3241a, in wh ch case the redtrrupbon penod shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Pursuant to Chapter 32 cf the Raised Judicature Act of 19-31. it the property is sold at foreclosure sale the bonuAC-r W:>i bo had response to tee person who buys the property at the mortgage foctKiiosure sale cr lo Lhe mortgage ho*der untie- MCLA 600 3278 fur damag.ng tee property dunng tee redemcnon penod ATTENTION HOMEOWNER. If you are a military se-vice member on activ? duly,:f you* p^nod o' active duty has concluded less tnan 90 days ago. or if ycu have been ci deted to active duty, ptease contact lhe attorney for the party tavC'oSi.ng tne mortgage tee freephone number stated in Ih s notice. DaW February 3. 2020 For More tnfounatton ptease ca'i Matthew R. Re rnardt. Esq QuiiVii-os. Pnete, Wood i Boyer. PA. Attorneys for Service* 255 South O.-ang? Avenue, 900 Ortancc. Flor da 32801 (856) 287-0240 Matter No 142883 (02-13X03-05) 135*^ �Tho Hastings Banner Pago 12 — Thursday. February 13, 2020 '"J Financial FOCUS I I i Saxon Sports Shorts Provided by the Harryf^unty - 'ird Jones Member SI PC Andrew Cove, AAMS® 421 W. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-3553 Financial protection can be a great Valentine’s Day Gift — ; JV Wrestling * Hastings had six guys finish in the top three •in their respective weight classes at the ►lnterstale-8 Athletic Conference J V Wrestling ^Tournament. a group led by Matt Thompson .who won the 140-pound weight class. * The Saxon team also had Joe Goggins sec­ ond at 125 pounds, Cameron Sceber second at ’171, Justus Forel! third at 119. Gili Perez third at 160 and Tyler Oliver third at 189 pounds. JV Bowling The Hastings JV boys and girls bowled a split match against Plainwell’s JV mixed leam Monday at Hastings Bowl. The Hastings (cams got high scores from Trevor Madden (138), Austin Fenstemaker (178) Tyler Sue .(164) and Drew Rhodes (180). * JV Boys* Basketball The Saxon JV boy/ basketball (cam pulled out a 46-44 win at Portland Monday. TJ Russell led Hastings with 23 points. ‘Hayden Long added eight points and John .Tellkamp and Ashton Benson had six points apiece for the Saxons. * - - - ■ - Anna Haywood, a freshman from Hastings on the Ka. Colfeae women’s swimming and diving leam. was honored as tho MIAA's Switn o( lhe Week Monday after victories in freestyle and backstroke races in her leaWs ®oa| wi|h A!ma (Phot' by Kimberly Moss) Wins over Alma earn Haywood conference's weekly honor The MIAA announced Monday that Kate Hay wood of the Kalamazoo College women’s swimming and diving leam earned Swimmer of the Week recognition. Haywood, a freshman from Hastings, won both of her solo events that she swam in against Alma in Kalamazoo’s final dual meet of the season. In the 200 freestyle. Haywood touched the wall first in 2 minutes 6.47 seconds to take the top spot. She also was victorious in lhe 100 backstroke as she finished in 1:05.23. This marks the first time in her career that Haywood has been selected at lhe confer­ ence’s Swimmer of the Week. She and the rest of the Hornets will now prepare for the Ml A A Championships that are scheduled to be competed Feb. 19-22 at Calvin. Call 269-945-9554 for fcfcgjs Banner ads NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held Feb. 11, 2020, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. iMonday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. «v*ru — -■ 1 ■ -----1.16809 CITY OF HASTINGS t^©T3CE TO SBIDDEi&S Sale of Surplus Vehicles iy.cn -- ------------------- fr 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 INVITATION TO BID 2018 (DARK SLATE) 4X4 GMC SIERRA2500 HD DURAMAX 14.000 APPROX. MILES (VIN# 1GT12SEY1JF133471) j I I | and 3:00p.m. Monday through Thursday and are ] available on the Yankee Springs Township website, www.vankeespringstwp.org. No bidder may withdraw his/her bid within ninety (90) days after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bid. Yankee Springs Township reserves the right to reject any/all bids, waive any informalities in the bids received and to accept and award the bid to the lowest qualified bid deemed most favorable to the interest of Yankee Springs Township. 2018 (RED) 4X4 GMC SIERRA 2500 HD DURAMAX with western plow mount 2-plug 10,000 APPROX MILES (VIN#1GT12SEY2JF132054) (minor bumper blemish) ! All items can be viewed at Biddergy.com- Bidding will open on Thursday, February 20 2020 at 8:00AM EST. 1 ' A Carlton Township representative called police at 1:38 p.m. Feb. 3 to report the histor­ ical sign at the township hall had been damaged. Tire tracks next to the sign indicated he sign had been either knocked down or pulled down by a vehicle. The post was broken, The case is inactive without any suspects. Alcohol involved in single-vehicle crash NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR FINAL PUD SITE PLAN DETERMINATION notice of public e hearing for final pup S' I PLAN DETERMINATE0** Planning Commission for th0 city (or the of H:«ose oThoaring nal will hold awritten Publicand/or Hearld . cflomP onts and make a determination °n3|sting ?UO Site Plan for an expansion of 4t0 PUuxinn at 400 West State Street of^ost State street for use as add^® ee held Hce/retall The public hearing ” 7-00 PMspace. on Monday, March 2, 2”* jn CM Ha". Council Chambers on the second floor 0%o58. ent z East State Street, Hastings, Michigan n4 attend All interested citizens are encouraged to attend and to submit comments. A copy of the proposed changes is available for public inspection from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday at the Office of tho Community Development Director, 201 East State Street. Hastings, Michigan 49058. Questions or comments can be directed to Dan King, Com­ munity Development Director, at 269.945.2468 or dkjng@hastingsmi.org AH interested citizens are encouraged'°posed and to submit comments. A copy 01 jpo P L 6.00 changes is available for public inspection Qtf.ce AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday a1 %t EaS' of lhe Community Development Dit6ctor-'.eStions qtate Sheet, Hastings, Michigan 49058. 0‘ Corno comments can be direc ed lo Dan 60 or Development Director, at 26g d'munity Wng©hastingsml.org The City will provide necessary reasonable aids nnd services upon five days’ notice to the City Clerk at 269.945.2468 or TDD call relay services The City W'« P'0"'0? ne2essjwv reasof^e GW .•a aids md services upon live days’ ,A(n to '%ices Clerk at 260.946.2468 or IDO c^y 800.649.3777- Jane M. Saurnian Police responded to a gunshot in the 11000 block of Green Lake Road in Thornapplc Township at 12:32 p.m. Feb. 6. A 36-ycar-old Middleville man said his girlfriend’s cousin picked up his daughter from his house while his son was watching him. When he got home and found out. he went to look for his daughter at his girlfriend’s mother’s house. When he arrived the 60-year-old mother answered the door with a handgun. She told him she did not know where his daughter was. but he was trespassing. He got back in his car, and she shot the gun. He yelled to her that he had his other children with him. and drove away. The woman then called 911 and said the man beat and intimidated her. and she fired the shot to keep him from running over her dogs, and to keep him from reluming. The gun was seized as evidence, and information was forwarded lo the prosecutor’s office. Carlton Township historical sign broken MattGergen Director of Public Services City of Hastings the second floor of City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. • Protection when you ’re gone - If you were to pass away, would your spouse or partner have the financial resources to continue the same lifestyle, pay the mortgage or, if you have children, provide for their education? If the answer is no, then you need to maintain adequate life insurance. How much is enough? There’s no one right answer for everyone. You might hear that you need a death benefit dial’s worth seven or eight times your annual income, but the actual amount should be based on a variety of factors - your age, size of family, current income, spouse or partner’s income, and so on. A financial professional can help you determine the appropriate amount of coverage. Valentine’s Day is just one day on the calendar. But if it serves as another reminder of how much you value your spouse or partner and spurs you into action to protect her or him throughout your lifetime - and beyond - then it will be an important day indeed. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Woman fires warning shot to granddaughter’s father The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any or all bids or to waive irregularities in the City’s best interest. City of Hastings The Planning Commission for the City of Hastings will hold a Public Hearing for the purpose of hearing written and/or oral com­ ments and make a determination on a Fi­ nal PUD Site Plan for construction and de­ velopment of a 45 unit multifamily housing building located at 326 W. State Street. The public hearing will be held at 7:00 PM on Mon­ day, March 2, 2020 in City Council Chambers on it may be possible for you to tap into these funds without incurring a tax penalty, though regular taxes may still be due. • Protection if you need care - If you were ever to need some type of long-term care, such as an extended stay in a nursing home or the services of a home health care worker, you might find the costs to be considerable and possibly a severe burden on your spouse or partner. In fact, the average cost for a private room in a nursing home is about SI00,000 per year, while a home health aide costs about S50,000 per year, according to Genworth, an insurance company. And Medicare typically pays only a small percentage of these expenses. To protect your spouse or partner - not to mention your grown children - from possibly having to deal with these costs, you might consider purchasing long-term care insurance. As an alternative, you could purchase a “hybrid” policy that combines long-term care benefits with those offered by a traditional life insurance policy. So, if you never needed long-term care, your policy would pay a death benefit to your spouse or partner or another beneficiary' you’ve named. 2018 (BLACK) 4X4 GMC SIERRA 2500 HD DURAMAX• with western Plow Mount (2-plug) 23,000 APPROX. MILES (VIN81GT12SEY7JF132714) 281 N BRIGGS ROAD - .MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 Separate sealed bids will be received by YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP, BARRY County, Michigan for the furnishing and installation of a standby generator on or before March 3, 2020@ 2:00PM at the Yankee Springs Township Office, 284 N. Briggs Road, Middleville Michigan 49333, and at that time will be opened and read in public. The “Instructions to Bidders* may be obtained at the Yankee Springs Township Office, 284 N. Briggs Road, Middleville Michigan 49333 between the hours of 10:00 a.m. On Valentine’s Day, you can give your spouse or life partner a traditional gift such as candy or flowers. Bui once you’ve done that, why not think about something that can provide longer-lasting benefits for your loved one? Specifically, think about ways to provide a lifetime of financial protection. You can do this in several ways, including: • Protection while you ’re alive -- As you know, it's usually necessary for both partners or spouses to work to maintain a household - so if your income were lo disappear, even temporarily, it could present a big problem. Your current employer could offer disability income insurance as an employee benefit, but it might not be enough for your needs, so you may want to consider purchasing your own policy. Keep in mind, though, that disability coverage typically only lasts for a few years, and, in any case, probably won’t completely replace your income. Consequently, it’s a good idea to build up your financial resources in other ways, so contribute as much as you can afford to your 401(k) and IRA during your working years. If you do become disabled. The City of Hastings will be acceptitr^ds through an online auction for lhe following. Township of Yanka® Springs 800.649.3777 Jim Lundin 2169 W.M-43-Hwy., Suite A Hastings, Ml 49058 (269)818-0423 Police responded to a single-vehicle rollover crash on South M-37 Highway near Hickory' ,n Johnstown Township at 2:36 a.m. Feb. 7. The driver, a 47-year-old Battle Creek man. said he "just ran off the roadway.” He admitted to drinking and had just left a bar. but refused lo take Breathalyzer or field sobriety tests. He was arrested. Wife accuses ex of smashing car window A 36-year-old woman called police al noon Jan. 25 to report the back window of her vehicle had been smashed during the night. The vehicle was parked at her residence in the 600 block of Gregg Street in Nashville, but the car belonged to a friend. The woman said it likely happened between 3 a.m. and 5 a.m.. and she suspected her ex-husband When asked by police, he denied involvement. Information was forwarded to the prosecuting attorney’s office. No leads in case of stolen generator A 61-vcar-old man called police Jan. 24 to report a generator had been stolen from his barn in the S00O block ol Bayne Road in Castleton Township. The man said he noticed the generator was missing Jan. 18, but it may have been stolen before then.'Hie case is inactive without any suspects. Manager heard Little Debbie shoplifter crinkling ...... A iremagei of the Gun 1 ,:lke BP .station on South Patterson Rm,t ...nt . p ut. Jan. 10 to report a theft, l he manager showed an ollker s'.^rv ’’'’r'-' ‘ |5’' 36 year-old Wayland woman putting a Little Debbie snack in I 1,1 •' snack in her sweatshirt, the woman asked the tnanaper if st. s%cu"h,rt .W,,h ,he ager said she would have to buy something, and she boui-ht ‘ bre!'k “ could hear the sound of a crinkling wrapper from inside‘th. ”C l’ravkei'-The ini,n:lS?'r woman would not lake her hand out of the pocket Th • f' Vo,nan‘s sweatshirt, and the dence. where she claimed she had taken the snack, bm thm t'".’,he picked up the crackers. Information was forwarded m th. C 'ad Pu*11 baek whcn she ________________ ________ _______________ Prosecuting attorney. �99 l Tno Hastings Banner — Thursday. February 13. 2020 — Page 13 Vikings best Lions in Of011 Br«< Bremer Sports Editor VitgS ~ tom with hall a minute to^av i?^1^11 Tuesday. - ,n overtime Lakewood sophomore center m u- L OGomtan finally secured ? .Mfrad’’h rebound as the Lakewood ladies WP^’f?S!VC out the ballgame on an 8.0 « ^™’’a fortune victory over the Lions in their sc com Greater I umsing Activ ities Conference match-up of the season. hile the Lions showed some effort on the court there, the plan is for their efforts off the court over recent weeks will bring hope to others. The ballgame Tuesday was lhe culmi­ nation ol the Lion program’s Hoops for Hojxj event, raising funds for Helen DeVo> Children’s Hospital. A spaghetti/Alfredo din­ ner was held Saturday, neon green T-shirts with the event lot»o and decorative hearts that Guard Megan VaW te brings the ball up the court for th ,l?s during their 58-50 overtime loss to visiting Lakewood in GLAC play Tuesday evening. (Photo by The Maple Valley varsity girls’ basketball team turns on its foam light wands and encourages those with cell phones in the crowd to turn on their flashlights, with special instructions from senior Jilian Moore to her mom on how exactly enable that feature, during the Hoops for Hope ceremony before its contest with Lakewood Tuesday at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer) MXEiVlW wile* Lakewood sophomore Maradith O’Gorman goes up with a shot as she's defended by Maple Valley’s Jilian Moore in the paint during the second half of their GLAC ballgame at Maple Valley High School Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Saxons try to stretch win streak to four Friday night ' It is officially a winning streak. • The Hastings varsity boys’ basketball team »has won three and a row and four of its last • f 11 ding into Friday night’s rematch with ) Harper Creek. The Beavers took a one-point J win when the iwo teams met at Little Caesar’s ; Arena in downtown Detroit last month. • The Saxons sandwiched an Interstate-8 i Athletic Conference victory at Jackson Lumen Christi last Friday in between non-conference ' wins over Comstock and Portland. J Hastings moved its 1-8 record to 3-6 with i its 52-43 victory over the Titans in Jackson : last Friday, its second w in of the season over ' the Jackson Lumen Christi boys. j The Saxons took a 27-7 lead over the Titans • with the first bucket of lhe second half, and j stretched the lead to 38-18 through three quar! ters before the Lumen Christi boys worked < their way back a bit in the fourth quarter. ’ The Saxons shot 42.1 percent from the J floor and 40 percent from behind the three­ ’ poinl line. Kirby Beck and Carter Cappon hit •two triples each. Beck finished w'ith a team- high 16 points and Cappon had 11. Beck added eight rebounds. Evan Eastman had a team-high 11 boards to go with eight points and four blocked shots. Portland was the Saxons’ victim Tuesday, falling 51-36 to its guests. Hastings got off to another strong start, leading 22-14 at the half and stretching the advantage to as many as 13 points in the third quarter. It was another solid night from shooting outside for lhe Saxons who hit 7-of-16 threepoint attempts. The Saxons took care of the basketball loo, turning it over just 11 times. Carter Hewitt drilled four three-pointers and led the Saxons with 18 points and nine rebounds, adding three assists as well. Beck had 14 points and Eastman chipped in nine points and ten rebounds. Hie Saxons have another non-conference bailgame al Ukewood Saturday evening, and then will be back at it in the 1-8 Tuesday at home against Parma Western. Hastings is cur­ rently 5-8 overall this season. [DK limits Irish offense for Valley victory in Kalamazoo j ‘ The Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ basket‘ ball team picked up its seventh victory of the ■ season on the road at Hackett Catholic I rep .'Friday, knocking off the Irish 42-36. • The Irish took a double-digit win when ' two teams met in Delton in late ! -Being consistent is a problem for us bu this was one of those nights we '.. come out and play some decent basUtb. ■ Delton Kellogg head coach Jason How an : said. -This was by far one ol our Mer games . of the season as far as moving tIk ball < • limiting our turnovers. : controlling the tempo of the game an advantage ol our size. with ‘ Cole 'X “dnib Wording H l*»‘^ .•another doubte-do b . jn lhe ( .. • >■ ..... in (he win. , effort and energy -I wa. very P«>>‘d tourt. we held on the defensive end |)uckets through them to only " ‘“L.„ e(fort I do not .ihme quarters. Wtthout ^ n^. a b.g ■ think wc would of gjvc us a burst .. ■ win for us, one lhal1 1 > h cn<j of the sea­ ; of confidence good? ' son.” The Delton Kellogg boys controlled the game throughout, but the Irish did close (O within four points in the fourth quarter. Free throw shooting was a struggle early on for the DC 'i-i Kn °¥ h0^’ bul saved lhem in the end. lhe Panthers were 9-oM2 at the line in the fourth quarter after hitting just 7-of-21 attempts from the free throw line in the firm three quarters combined. Die Panthers arc now 7-7 overall this sea­ son and 4-5 in the Southwestern Athletic Conference Valley Division The DK lx>y> were bested by Kalamazoo Christian tn Kalamazoo Tuesday (>0 47 Thc 32“23 nl lhe h*,f “tor out­ scoring the DK boys 18-10 in the second quarter. ,,u Christian got17 points from Ethan Houma who buried live three-pointers. Brandon DeVries had 13 points Ll ten re^s Aaron deJong added 11 points and eiehi’ boards lor lhe hosts. ** Grizzle had 14 poinls and 13 boanl, f<„ ■>,. Panthers, while Jaden Ashley contributed P points. Delton returns to action at Constantine Thursday night, and then will be off until a contest with Lawton at DKHS Feb. 21. hung in the gym I»c\ ‘> *ere sold in the days leading up to the "game where silent auction items were up for bid ;b well. Maple Valley senior Jihan Moore was the pre-game master of ceremonies, introducing everyone to varsity boys basketball coach Ryan Nevins’ daughter Karlcc who spent the first three months of her life at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital dealing with gastroschi­ sis. Karlee was there with her mother Kortney. while Ryan coached the Maple Valley varsity boys at Lakewood High School Tuesday eve­ ning. The Maple Valley boys suffered a ten-point loss to the Vikings on the road. 'Hie Maple Valley girls were in danger of suffering a double-digit defeat a couple times against the Vikings Tuesday, but kept battling back and had the lead late in regulation and early in overtime. The Lions led 45-43 with a minute lo play. O’Gorman scored in the paint with about ten seconds to phy to even lhe ballgame, but missed ;m and-one attempt from the free throw line that could of pul her team in front. The Lions put up a rushed shot, that looking back on coach Landon Wilkes wished he’d thwarted with j time-out to set something up, and lhe two teams went to overtime tied 45-45. Lakewood got the ball inside lo O’Gorman and hil a few shots outsidfto pull away in the extra four minutes aiicr Moore scored the initial bucket of overtime for the Lions. "We really wanted to utilize our size and pounded it in the post, and I think the guards did a nice job of pushing it in lhe paint and repositioning for shots.” l-akewood head coach Kelly Meinls said.“MaradithO’Gorman played huge for us.’’ O’Gorman finished with 13 points, II rebounds and three blocks. She also fired a pass out of a crowd in paint for an open three from the left comer by junior guard Anja Kelley early in overtime. Senior guard Kristine Possehn had a teamhigh 16 points for the Vikings, knocking down some shots and impressing her coach with her aggressiveness driving to the hoop. Alli Pickard added four assists for the Vikings and a couple steals, while also banking in a shot from a step inside the three-point line (hat put the Vikings in front for good at 52-50 with two minutes to play *n overtime. Lakewood took a 25-23 win when the two teams met at Lakewo°d High School last month. Turnovers piled up ^or lhe Lions in the early stages of the ballgame Tuesday against the Vikings’ full-court pressure. Lakewood opened the contest on **1 8*2 run and had lhe lead up to 19-9 early *9 the second quarter. Tlie Vikings pushed ’cad to as many as 11 points, (32-21) a minute and a half into the second half. “I think our intensity w&s up a notch when we started in the Lakewood head coach Kelly Meinls su’d. ‘Gol ourse]ves a few steals and easy buckc_t-s right away, which gave the girls a good confidence boost. 1 think it troubled Maple ValW s ball handlers and caused some good turnovers, j Was rca||y happy with the start of the gamc wc had worked hard on nton^ °ur feet and getting tn lanes in practice on Monday.” “We are still strug£hn£ to ou| high energy the second hall.They made some adjustments to our pros’.and so we had to go ahead and pull that. Huv,«g just a few defen­ sive breakdowns ca^cd Maple VaIky |o climb back in it.” Maple Valley went on a 12-o nin OVCf (jlc next few minutes in ih* J,rd quarter though get right back in ine hullgame. Ashlyn Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads Wilkes had eight points in that run for the Lions, getting to the free throw- line a few times, and Megan Valiquette scored the team’s other four points as it pulled within 34-32. “We got our heads up finally, looked up lhe floor,’’ coach Wilkes said of his girls’ improve­ ments against lhe pressure as the game wore on. “I still have some kids that don’t want to step through when they have the ability to step through. It is something we’re going to have to drill a little bit more into them. We have to step through, especially when we have our dribble. Several limes tonight wc would gel kind of trapped or pinched and we still had our dribble but we wouldn't just step through and attack or retreat dribble and go somewhere w ith the basketball.’’ Wilkes finished with a game-high 20 points to lead lhe Lions. Valiquette had 14 points and Moore nine for Maple Valley. Wilkes found Valiquette ahead after a Lake wood turnover near mid-court with four and a half minutes to go in the fourth quarter, and Valiquette made the lay-up and completed a three-point play at lhe free throw line to give their team a 43-41 lead. A putback by Pickard with three and a half minutes lo go, and two free throws by Wilkes with 70 seconds to play had the Lions up 45-43 until O’Gorman’s late equalizer. The Vikings are now 7-9 overall this sea­ son. They were downed at Olivet in GLAC action last Friday, 38-29, and currently sit fifth in the conference standings at 4-6. Lakewood will host Hastings Saturday in a non-conference bailgame at 5:30 p.m. and then return to GLAC play Tuesday at home against Leslie. Maple Valley falls to 1-14 overall with the loss, and 1-8 in the GLAC. The Lions visit Perry' Friday evening, and then will be home Tuesday to take on the Lansing Christi an team that they defeated on the first swing through lhe league schedule. The Lions were bested last Friday in a non-conference ballgame at GalesburgAugusta, 41-35. Faurttere even season series with Irish in big turnaround Teams are always looking for improve­ ments in the second half of the varsity basket­ ball season, but rarely is a turnaround as spectacular as lhe one the Panthers pulled off Tuesday night. It w’as a swing of 46 points between the Delton Kellogg girls’ loss at Kalamazoo Christian last month to their victory' over the visiting Comets in Delton Tuesday. The DK girls scored a 48-31 Southwestern Athletic Conference victory over the Comets after falling by 29 points in their first meeting. “(It) was probably one of our best allaround efforts of the season where we actual­ ly put four full quarters together,” Delton Kellogg head coach Mike Mohn said after Tuesday’s victory . "Really proud of those kids and how hard they worked on the defensive end which led to some easier buckets on the offensive end. "Christian thumped us pretty good earlier in the year, by 29. and I thought our kids recommitted themselves to playing with a bit more passion defensively and it showed in lhe final score.” Holly McManus poured in 17 points for Delton Kellogg, and Erin Kapteyn and Mary' Whitmore had ten points each as the leam evened its overall record for the season at 8-8. The loss dropped the Comets lo 11-5 on the season. l^auren Lebeck added four points and coach Mohn said she had "another great effort on lhe defensive end.” Eva FernandezVillalobos’. the Panthers’ exchange student from Spain, had a DK varsity high of seven points. “She really is starting to come into her own and scored some very big baskets down the stretch,’’ Mohn said of Fernandez-Villalobos. DK is now 4-5 in Sz\C Valley Division play this season. They will head to Constantine IHVRSDAYJE9RUARI13 . „ 3 30 PM foj-s Viity fori', j Para KWi 3 30 PM Srts Vja-ty fo.v.Tj - toaaWesSem 4:30 PM fo/s V.ddlft Schwl Witsto® ft* 5 3j FM Boy; ftssMran Baikal • 600 PM Bert Varity Wasfrng Team Duinrti C faW Effl FM Boys V* S*. Mora Sborrf MS 7.0C’ PM Ju;?f Vi'&ty FRiDAYJEBBUARY..H __ _ _ _J® fret-test tonight (Feb. 13) to take on the Falcons in another conference match-up. The Panthers were also a bit better in their second meeting with Hackett Catholic Prep, on the road in Kalamazoo, last Friday. The Irish, the top ranked squad in the Panthers’ Division 3 District Tournament at the end of the season, scored a 43-31 win over the DK girls. The DK girls were within two at the start of the fourth quarter, but gave up an offensive rebound, turned lhe ball over, and got whis­ tled for an illegal screen. The Irish lead quick­ ly went from two to eight points in three possessions. Hackett ended up sealing the win at the free throw line where it took 17 shots in the fourth quarter. The offensive bo;ud early in the fourth quarter wasn’t die only one for the Irish. They had 12 in the game. leading to 11 poinls. The Panthers had other chances to keep up with the Hackett girls, but shot just 8-of-19 from the free throw line and coach Mohn said his girls missed five uncontesled “bunnies” under the basket. " Doing the math, that ends up with DK leaving up to 32 poinls on the floor,” Mohn said. “We really try’ and preach it’s the little things that add up over the course of a bail­ game and Friday was definitely a prime example of that. "A lough loss but I thought that we really compcted^and hopefully opened up some eyes for some kids on the team. Kapteyn had 14 points in the loss. McManus finished with ten poinls and five steals. MaryWhitmore had four points and led DK with nine rebounds. Lebeck had a really nice effort with two points and five rebounds with a stel­ lar effort on the defensive end. svwAmemiAaua 1 GjOO AM '-a 90 A.M Gns .VXf Be* ■ 3 JV totunert G JV’oworfflt G M-66 0c* tel TuamttBfiUABiia Hon* A*iy Hxne 600 PM Gull Vanity foiitterJ 6 W FM Gr.4 Vr- ty Vx- - f 7.3U PM Boys Viryty Basket^ • Creek H5 SATUflPAYJfBRUA8YJ5 900 A.M Cvfl Vj: !y - -3 0 * '.T’u - - r- . 12 00PM fort -'«•• •' < v^ty fo-:'] -v’ 12 00 FM fort . - u r•- J IZvJlUL :. '■ '■ Mr 2 w) PM fo/s - !. 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The group of winners for TK included fresh- ____________ ____________ ■ , > Brett Bremer Sports Editor JT A group of 14 Tbojan wrestlers took lo the Tn.its at Forest Hills Eastern Friday, and 14 JTrojan wrestlers returned to Middleville with ’jncdals. »- They earned a team trophy to go along with ,’that individual hardware as well. ‘X Thc Thomapple Kellogg varsity wrestling ’leam had ten wrestlers in the finals and .six •Individual champions at the end of the evehung as it finished off an undefeated OK Gold 'Conference season by winning thc conference ftoumament in Ada. While underclassmen dominated the day ‘Jbr the young TK team, it was seniors Logan tyfoorc, Adam Bush and Nick Bushman who • Jcccpted the conference championship trophy /•nd handed it off to their teammates. All three . seniors in rhe TK line-up Friday finished sec­ ond at their flight. •. Bushman was one of thc few- Trojans that •got to outwrestlc his seeding, entering as the third seed and earning that runner-up medal. Bushman was just returning from an illness and Moore has recently worked his way back from an iqjury to strengthen the line-up. •t All six Trojan individual conference cham­ pions were first time conference champions. [There was no medal ceremony or trophy pre­ sentation a year ago as the conference touma- man Znckaty Gibson at 119 jwunds. freshman Kvron Zoct at 130. freshman Austin Chivis nt 140, sophomore Ashton Corson at 103, soph­ omore Matthew Middleton at 152 and junior Carter West nt 285 pounds. Freshman 135-pounder Andrew Middleton joined thc three seniors as flight runner-ups. with Bushman wrestling at 145, Moore at 160 and Bush 189. TKalfreshman Jackson Curtis was third at 125 pounds. Sophomore Arianit Jdrizi was fourth at 145, freshman Noah Rosenberg fourth at 215 and freshman Jake Middleton fourth at 171. “It is nice having freshmen and young kids because thc growth is so much easier. They learn so much quicker. They haven’t been around the block yet, so they leam as they go,” TK head coach Dayne Fletke said. “* See guys, this is why we teach this,’ and then they 8° ‘yeP. you’re right. We need to hil it like that,’ and then they move on from that. It has been kind of fun lo watch that.” The Trojans did some shuffling this season to accommodate every one. Rosenberg worked hard to get down to 215 pounds and cam a spot in the line-up there with West handling the heavy weight spot. Jake Middleton took on a bit of an extra challenge grappling at 1X9 Thornapple Kellogg’s Ashton Corson holds Wayland’s CJ Karman on his back during their 103-pound championship match before claiming the conference championship with a pin Friday at Forest Hills Eastern High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Thomapple Kellogg’s Nick Bushman tries to escape the grasp of Forest Hills Eastern's Gabe Hassan in their 140-pound championship match Friday at the OK Gold Conference Tournament in Ada. Hassan scored a 13-3 win in the bout. (Photo by Brett Bremer) pounds Friday with senior teammate Bush making thc cut to compete at 171 pounds. “1 hey stepped up into some roles that are normally filled by juniors and seniors.” Fletke said of Rosenberg and Jake. The Trojans were 675 points better than runner-up Forest Hills Eastern, finishing with 2285 total points. The host Hawks were sec­ ond with a score of 161, ahead of Wayland 123. East Grand Rapids 109, Wyoming 86 and Grand Rapids Christian 11.5. Corson. Zoct, Chivis. Matthew Middleton and Carter all scored pins in their champion­ ship round matches. Gibson, at 112pounds, had the closest bat­ tle of any of the winning Trojans in the final round, pulling out a 6-5 win over Forest Hills Eastern’s Gavin Smith. He gave up a tough­ luck take down late in the opening period, but fought for an escape point in the last second which proved pivotal in the end. Gibson also had a couple unfortunate stalling penalties go against him. Smithied 3 1 entering the third period, but Gibson scored a quick reversal, let Smith up and th errtaxed a quick take down to move into the l-ad.; Forest Hills Eastera had four individual champions, three of whom defeated TK wres­ tlers in the finals. EthaaCastillo took thc 130pound title with a 16-7 major decision against Andrew Middleton. Gabe Hassan won at 140 forthc Hawks,bestingBashman 13-3. Hayden Foote took a 14-9 win over Bush in thc 171pound final. Joseph Doherty also earned the 189-pound championship for FHE, outscoring East Grand Rapids’ Declan Lee 6-4 in the finals. EGR got titles from Eran Marx at 119 The Thornapple Kellogg varsity wrestling team celebrates with its OK Gold Conference championship trophy, while the team's six individual conference champions show off their brackets, at the conclusion of the conference tournament at Forest Hills Eastern High School Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) pounds, Eli Kinney al 152 and John Shelton at 215 pounds. Shelton improved to 37-0 on thc season with his two pins Friday. Wayland’s Adam Ordway bested Moore 7-1 for thc 160-pound championship. TK will travel to Hastings Thursday for its Division 2 Team District Tournament, and then go to Lowell for its Individual District Tournament Saturday. “We just have to work on getting in shape, fine tuning some things, getting ready for (Thursday) night. Make sure we’re healthy and ready to go,” Fletke said. “Nothing too special is going to happen between now and then, just some tweaks and some specializa­ tion for kids.” „ ■ . Wayland and Hastings meet in the district semifinal, with the Trojans set to take on the winner of that match in Thursday’s district final. TK took wins over both of those teams during the regular season, besting Hastings 52-18 in December and Wayland 58-15 last month. TK cheer adfefe second Gold/Green victory Brett Bremer Sports Editor Alone at lhe (op. That is where Thomapple Kellogg flyer Riley Hall has been in round three since lhe Trojan varsily competitive cheer team cut down lo a single stunt group in round three. with a third-place finish.but have won each of the last two jamborees to move ’nto first place all alone. There have been just five g*rls on mat each round for TK at the two conference jam­ borees that ihe Trojans won, short of the requirement for a full scone in round two for a Division 2 team, but the ten-point deduction has been made up for by the excellence of the Trojans’ performance in the round. “The best thing about these 14 girls is I have got multiple people I cou,d Pul in “ r,vc in each round,” TK head coach Ally Clouse said Wednesday, "if one of these five were to get sick, hurt or whatever it wouldn’t be hard for us to find another flycr lo Pul oul’ find another face to pul oUt, find another tumbler to put out.They arc ng very versatile.They all have a lot of the skills they need to put out on the mat. They are fun to coach. It can be a challenge to coach of course, because you have to pick five but 1 said lhcy aI1 Thornapple Kellogg’s Liberty Telzlaff and her teammates throw their fists to the air as they perform during round two of the OK Gold/Green jamboree at Wayland Union High School Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Trojans' round three stunt group holds flyer Riley Hall above the mat during the OK Gold/Green Conference jamboree at Wayland Union High School Wednesday. TK took its second victory In three tries in the conference Wednesday, and was set to host the conference finale last night in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) It is also now where the Trojans are in the conference standings after three OK Gold/ Green Conference jamborees. The TK girls won their second consecutive conference jamboree al Wayland Union High School Wednesday, putting up a season-high point total of 71644. Hamilton was second Wednesday with an overall score of 70250 and Byron Center third with 691.12 points. lire Trojans, Hawkeyes and Bulldogs have been the top three teams al each of thc first three jamborees this winter, and arrived in Wayland lied atop thc conference standings. Tire Trojans opened lhe conference season involved, wc discuss it and what il comes down to is whal do you want out of the sea­ son.” TK even had an assistant coach, MacKenzic Kiel, ready to step up and fill in for coach Clouse as she was off for lhe week leading up to the jamboree giving birth to a new daugh­ ter. “Wc were in communication the whole entire week,” Kiel said. “Every decision we made was together.” The decisions made certainly worked out. TK had the top round one score of thc meet nt 220.60 and thc best round two score at 201.14 even after lhe ten-point deduction in the round thanks to back lucks and other tough skills they’ve been able to pull off. That round one score was just a tenth of a point off the team’s top score in that round this season. Along with lhe back lucks in round two, the group of Trojans out lhere in round two per­ formed a toe-touch, switch-splits, back-hand­ spring, a back-walkover and a back-tuck. “We have quite a few tumblers and a lot of gymnastics skill on our team. Il works to our advantage for sure,” Clouse said. The Trojans finished the day with a score of 294.70 in round three, their highest of the season in that final round. “Their execution has really improved throughout the season,” Clouse said. “It is easier to have a cleaner round three and better execution with one group on lhe mat of course, but the five that we have out there are definitely strong. They know how to stunt clean.” Runner-up Hamilton had the lop round three score al 303.20, but the Hawkeyes had a ten-point deduction of their own in round two and trailed lhe Trojans by nearly 22 points heading into lhe final round. TK was scheduled to host the OK Gold/ Green’s final meet of the season last night. Valley cheer jumps a spot with its Round 3 performance Maple Valley oveIciine a nearly 15-poinl deficit in TOU|)d overtake Vassar to ■"<>« into ninih ‘ Friday at Bull Creek's I I™ Creek Cht£ v (< 2020. ihe Map)u Vdi ” ,iris had a tough round .......... a-H /.nu m round th . Midland tixx .,ee. v’s championship with ;,n overa" s«>re 0.^22. There was a wide mT uf ,ea*n» .h“c «hh Midland and Midland Ifi । of Division I squads ^,nP*‘ng> and d)L. rLns, Vassar and Sanford Meridian out Lj?' . Chesaning, a >3 team, placed sec­ ond with 697 l^^iits, al»cad of Sanfonl Meridian 672X18, Bay City Western 664.88, Gladstone 664.18, Midland Bullock Creek 629.74, Dow 616.98, Saginaw Swan Valley 599.34. Maple Valley 582.42 and Vassar 575.34. The Lions put together a score of 188.40 in round one, and a 144.42 in round two after a ten-point deduction. Midland was powered lo the win by its round one total of 221.40 points. Chesaning had the top scores of the meet in rounds two and three at 191 54 and 29540. Midland fin­ ished lhe meet with scores of 191.32 in round two and 288 50 in round three. The Lions were scheduled to finish off the Greater Lansing Activities Conference season at Lakewood High School last night and they will return to action Feb. 22 at their Division 4 District Tournament hosted by Bronson. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads �Tbo Hastings Bonner 2020 — — raw Page 15 Tbo Hastings Banner — — Thursday, Thursday, February February 13, 13, wv '= Tn?J?f Saxons capturel-8 championships . of senior iporr.s Editnr A pair captain^,^^ ngs varsity wrestling leam Saturday Freshman Robby ShLk. feci first Interstate 8 S cr.^PPed a per­ campaign by scoring a loTwfa C onf5,rcncc Creek's Brian Castellanos n championship match at the 1 r r 35 p* nd hosted by the Saxons it Tin ,• 1 X »°umamcnt Hastings “super proud” of the wayf ?as wrestled Saturday, but ihe^L f h’S. dad pride behind'heXf sXabli,,le a conference championship g 'S S0" W‘n iso/ecgrappleJscjnWrcs«'ngcareer Seniors lyier Dull and Gafe T "V*”'0"'1'' HaZffi°^ipS “ RM & Saxon senior Gabe Trick holds Harper Creek's Trevor Brook®'" a headlock during into the second periXf thrir ^mintk I'*'1 Jaeks°" e'e 3-0 in *he 160-pound championship match. . 1C,li.nS C°aCh (JC,T) Wllbur ,hat hZ r ! I°?avelhea hanl ,irac wilh r,nals- bul he was seeded third behind a kid that had already pinned him and wasn't even expected to see the Harper Creek kid - according to the seed­ ing, coach Slaughter said. Trick scored a shutout in his semifinal vic­ tory at 145 pounds, besting Northwest’s Zachary Jacobs 4-0. Jacobs pinned Trick early in the second period during their team’s Intcrslate-8 Athletic Conference dual this winter. From there, it was on to thc finals where Track was set to face Brooks who’d pinned Trick’s teammate Matt Thompson in the first period when the Beavers and Saxons had their head-to-head dual last month. “Gabe knew in his mind that he would be there in thc finals against a kid who had zero blemishes (on his conference) record, and ranked seventh (in the stale). Of course, in most cases we don’t want kids to think like this. Me, as a coach, I’m always looking at the next match. But Gabe had it all mapped out in his mind that he was going io win an 1-8 Conference title in thc toughest weight class of the tournament.” Even the fourth place medalist at 145 pounds. Zeke Nowicki from Coldwater, is a wrestler who is over 100 varsity victories for his career. Brooks’ loss to Trick was just his fourth defeat of lhe season, stacked up against their 145-pound championship match Saturday at the Interstate* Conference Hastings freshman Robby Slaughter (left) fights for control with Harper Creek’s Brian Castellanos in the 135-pound championship Saturday during the lnterslate-8 Athletic Conference Tournament at Hastings High School. • Tournament in Hastings. 33 wins. Dull’s championship was just as surprising to those not wearing blue and gold. “In the coaches’ seeding room, this wasn’t supposed to be,” Slaughter said of Dull’s title. “But, Tyler has the mindset that he will go get what he wants. All of us coaches talked about this being one of the greatest wrestling match­ es he has had. He beat a kid they said he shouldn’t - which is what we do.” Hastings had six medalists in all on the day. Senior Carter Smith was fourth at 171 pounds, and sophomore 215-poundcr Jackson Dubois and sophomore 130-pounder Mason Denton both placed third. Smith returned lo the mat this winter to help lhe Hastings team and to win a confer­ ence medal in his lone varsity season after stepping away from thc sport for a few years after seventh grade. Jackson Northwest put eight wrestlers in thc finals, had three champions and 12 lop four finishes overall to finish off a conference tournament championship. The Mountics closed thc day with 205 poinls. Parma Western had four champions, and placed second with 1845 points, ahead of Harper Creek 1285. Coldwater 103, Hastings 100, Marshall 445, Lumen Christi 37 and Pennfield 33. Hastings also got victories on lhe day from Shane Dillon at 112 pounds and Griffin Seebcr al 140 • ■■1 know thc day •**"‘ cnd exactly how these guys wanted' t«o have been named captains the s,cason,” coach Slaughter said ”U!on and Seebcr. “They took the los^* yesterday, but quickly manned up to P wd their team and cheer for those guys stu* >n it.” There will be many more chances for the Saxons lo cheer on thc»r teammates in the days ahead. Hastings will host its Division 2 Team District Tournament tonight (Feb. 13), taking on Wayland in a semifinal match beginning at 6 p.m- Thomapple Kellogg awaits lhe winner in thc district final. Those teams, and more, will gather in Lowell Saturday for their Division 2 Individual District Tournament. Jackson Northwest got championships from Cameron Beach at 103 pounds. Gage Race al 119 and Payne Boulter at 125. Parma Western was led lo its runner-up finish with titles from Landon Raczkowskiat 215 pounds. Bode Brown at 189, Lincoln Raczkowski al 112 and Gage Parker at 140. Other individual conference champions included Harper Creek’s Chandler Froehlich (130) and Easton Kolassa (152), Coldwater’s Nick Buchanan (171) and Lumen Christi’s Wally Gilbert (285). Hastings senior Tyler Dull holds down Jackson Northwest’s Dominick Louagifc during his 3-0 win in the 160-pound championship match on the Saxons’ home mat£ Saturday at the I-8 Tournament. < Hastings girls take better care of basketball against Titans; Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Saxunc continue to count their gains as the second half of lhe Interstate-8 Athletic Conference schedule continues. The Hastings varsity girls’ basketball team was better in its second meeting with Jackson Lumen Christi than il was in its first, but fell 47-35 to the host Titans in 1-8 action last Friday. The Titans led by two points, 24-22, al lhe half and saw the Saxons take a small lead early in the third quarter before surging back in front. The Titans pulled back ahead 38-29 by the end of lhe third quarter. “Reducing turnovers has been our number one focus for improving our level of play,’’ Hastings head coach Mike Engle said. “We finally did that. The next area of improvement will to be improve our shooting so we can convert the extra shot attempts to more points.” The biggest strides in dealing with defen­ sive pressure have come from experience that has helped decision making. “Early in the season our young team might see what they perceive to be an open player, with a defender two lo three feet away, and at the freshman or JV level that (defender) is not going to gel to the open player. But varsity players are so much more athletic that the window to hit an open player is much small­ er," Engle said. “So what our players have had to leam this season is to do a better job of not forcing the pass when-that window of lhe player being open is small.” The Saxons had just 14 turnovers in thc ballgame, cutting nearly ten off their average total for a ballgame this season. That reduc­ tion of turnovers allowed the Saxons to get off 46 shots. The team has been averaging around 35 shots a ballgame to this point in lhe season. Macy Winegar led the Saxons with 20 points and four steals in the loss. Brook Youngs added five points for the Saxons. Carly Warner had four steals and Aubrec Bond had a teamhigh nine seven rebounds. Megan Gibson had nine points and Allie Sweeney had 15 for the Titans. The two of them combined to hit seven three-pointers in the ballgame. The Titans were 7-of-ll from behind the three-point line for the night. The Saxons threw a zone at the Titans early in their first meeting, and Gibson hit four three-pointers in the first quarter. This time thc Saxons went man-to-man on thc defensive end. which made the Titans work a bit harder to find their openings from behind thc arc. They still found them though. “They did a really nice job with off-ball picks, running screens off the ball to get those two players open looks and when they had open looks they converted them,” Engle said. The Titans defeated the Saxons by 1$ points in their first meeting of the season laijt month. ‘ The loss drops lhe Saxons' record to 0-l| on the season, and 0-9 in the InterstatoAthletic Conference. Hastings will host league-leading Harper Creek Friday. The Beavers are 13-2 ovcrajl and 8-1 in the conference. Hastings visits Lakewood Saturday for a non-conference ballgame. Round 3 work pays off for Saxons at Mason Invite Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Saxons had a week and a half to just prepare for Saturday’s Mason Invitational, and then had lo spend a lot more time waiting to compete at lhe meet that featured 26 v arsity teams and four JV teams. The waiting proved to be the hardest part as the Saxons were outstanding when they got lo take the mat. Hastings pul together a sea­ son-high score of 753.72 points to place fifth overall among lhe 26 varsity teams. A group of 27 teams performed in round three before it was the Saxons turn to finally put into practice what had been their focus in practice for the previous couple weeks. “We used that time (between meets) to make some strategic changes to round three and really drill it. Hastings head coach Linse7 Jacinto said. "'litis helped the 8*rls Se very confident in the round. Saturday ““.Tas6 atng'wait. and by the time we were up (in r0“ndj‘^’’^1? asb<Mh sides of in the gym^^’^taihere. tons of disspectators. It wits ( o| hlayed S'^fou. and just naiied it. Wc were beyond proud of them. of 3)| 7() in The Saxons put *1P 300 in round three, their first score round three this seasom # s(iong ^'^^int^d one and then scored score of 23V-A' »• ‘ 211.12 points in rourw '' "Round one W« pW made a few small changes d we hlivtf and spent some time really tightening things back up," Jacinto said Wednesday as her team prepped for thc final Interstale-8 Athletic Conference meci of lhe season. “We had a few issues in round iwo on Saturday, which had more to do with nerves than lhe round. We have been drilling this week, and they just continue to amaze us. ’ Saturday gave us the opportunity to see exactly what we needed lo improve on. and we have. It was a great experience, we arc peaking at just the right time, everyone is back to healthy, and wc are looking really good for thc last stretch of our season. The 1-8 finale was scheduled for last night at Jackson Northwest. Hastings will be at the Ijikewood Valentine Cheerfest Saturday and then travel to Thomapple Kellogg for its Division 2 District Tournament Feb. 22: I he Saxons didn’t see any district foes at the Mason Invitational, but did see some strong Division 2 teams they could meet un with should they make it through the district tournament.. The top three teams nt Mason were all D2 teams: ' DeWitt (7K9J8 pcVim^’ Chartaie ,.,.,t Mason (761 DR). J? * Charlotte (782.W (782.36) and Portland, a Division 3 team, also edged the Saxons Saturday with a final overall score of 75954 points. Hastings had a slim lead on Mason for fourth overall at the meet after outscoring the host Bulldogs in round two, but Mason scored a 31950 in round ihrec to jump lhe Saxons in the final standings. DeWitt had thc top score of the day in each round, scoring a 237.40 in round one, 231 08 in round iwo and 321.30 in round three. Your Success Is Our Business Get professional resells and unbeatable value from the local specialists in business services! All-state honor rolls in for Saxon lineman Evan Murphy Hastings senior offensive lineman Evan Murphy was honored a$ an honorable mention all-state foot^u piayer by the Michigan High School Football Coaches Association in late LJeCember. Murphy helped lead an otf0nsive attack that rushed for over 3,200 yards |aS| fa|| |qe had a 99 percent blo<^,n9 ©fficiency. Banners Z Posters • Printin'* & Copying • l aminating • Marketing Materials Siln.SrHan<lboo^ -And Much More!_ ~L^t us customize your promotional materials here! Contact Ty Greenfield, Steve Skedgell or Jennie Yonker 269-945-9554 - �* • .... to Vikes ’* s’ Seventh mix of styles leads *■_ straight title Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Lakewood varsity wrestling team won its seventh consecutive conference champion­ ship Friday afternoon, with six Vikings claim­ ing flight championships at the Greater Lansing Activities Conference Tournament. Lakewood senior Jon Clack, the program career leader in wins and pins, captured his third individual conference title with a 6-2 victory over Leslie’s Nick Carey in the 189pound championship. Jordan Mclllwain at 125 pounds, Kanon Atwell at 119 pounds, Zachary Gibson at 112 pounds and Grant Clarkson nt 285 pounds each captured their second individual GLAC championship, and teammate Gavin Vaughn at 160 pounds won his first conference title. • “We’re all kind of weird,” Mclllwain said. “Everybody just kind of wrestles their own way. They’ve got their own personal touch to what they do.” * Mclllwain pinned Olivet’s Brady Meyer in Jhc 125-pound semifinals and then followed that up with a 7-4 victory over Perry’s Jacob Orweller who was an individual state qualifier a year ago. “It is hard to describe (my style), because I’m weird,” Mclllwain said. “1 like to wrestler GRECO, but at thc same time 1 get floppy and I do a lot of weird stuff that isn’t actually a move, but it works sometimes. I kind of just go out there and wrestle my best, whatever way I can. It works most of tire time.’’ ; Lakewood head coach Tony Harmer said a lot of work has gone into team building this season, and he has been happy to let all of his guys wrestle with their own styles. He said Mclllwain’s style is more prevalent in the upper weights, and it can throw off the small: cr guys he’s wrestling - Mclllwain being double-jointed doesn’t hurt cither. “They do have their individual separate styles." Harmer said. "They have different shots, different techniques. I think that is something different we’re trying this year, trying lo cater to their style rather than force them to wrestle a certain way. Many programs they say, ‘no, you’ve got to wrestle this way, this way.’ For scouting purposes, it is easy. I can look at certain teams and say, ‘they wres­ tle this way and we’re going to practice these counters all day.’ "For this group of knuckleheads,” he added with a (one of affection and a smile, "you have to individualize on every single kid on how they wrestle because it is dramatically different." Maple Valley and Leslie both had four indi­ vidual champions, wilh Leslie finishing sec­ ond and Maple Valley third in lhe tournament standings. Lakewood finished off thc undefeated con­ ference season by outscoring runner-up Leslie I96-J47 at the top of the standings. Maple Valley was third on the day with 120-5 points, ahead of Olivet III, Perry 81 and Stockbridge 32. “It is a lot of pressure,” Hanner said of chasing a conference championship. “It truly is. Every year you have your ups and downs and battles. Bob (Veitch) was worried about this one today too, saying how close it was going to be. Leslie is building something spe­ cial over there. It is going to start getting more and more challenging. They’re working towards beating us. That is their goal. They’re showing it. They’re coming after us." Lakewood got runner-up finishes from Ashton Clark at 103 pounds and Keegan ___ i—■—------------- d The Lakewood varsity wrestling team celebrates its seventh consecutive conference championship after finishing off an undefeated GLAc season by winning the conference tournament Friday at Lakewood High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) VanAlstinc al 140. Maple Valley’s Gage Ertman bested Clark in the 103-pound final 17-2 to earn one of the Lions’ fourth individual championships. Clark’s teammate Gibson avenged that defeat by besting Lakewood’s 112-pounder Matthew Slaght 12-0 in their 112-pound championship bout. Maple Valley also had Jesse Brumm win his third conference championship, taking the 130-pound title with a 9-3 w in over Leslie’s Cannon Risner in the championship round Ertman, Cody Taylor at 152 pounds and A J Raymond at 171 all won an individual confer­ ence championship for thc first time. Taylor pinned Olivet’s Brad) Pritchard late in the second period of the 152-pound cham- Lakewood's Gavin Vaughn fights to put Leslie’s Kyle Weinstein down to the mat during their 160-pound championship match Friday at the Greater Lansing Activities Conference Tournament, a match Vaughn won by the score of 8-3. ’S'C// Maple Valley’s AJ Raymond gets lifted off the mat by Leslie’s Nathaniel Courtney during their 171-pound championship match at the GLAC Tournament Friday. Raymond was one of four Maple Valley guys to win individual titles, besting Courtney 8-1. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lakewood senior Jon Clack accepts his championship medal after winning the 189-pound weight class Friday at the GLAC Tournament at Lakewood High School. Clack was one of six Lakewood wrestlers to win flight championships. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Join Spectrum Health Pennock Family Medicine - Middleville in celebrating over 25 years serving the community along with the completion of recent office renovations. Thursday, Feb, 20 j 5 p,m. to 6:30 p.m» Ribbon-cutting with the Barry County Chamber of Commerce to it take place at 5 p.m. - Light refreshments * Door prizes Anditw Mepham, PA < ' Tours of newly remodeled space • Free blood pressure checks * Meet our providers Spetfrum Pc-nr.ocL Family Medicine - Middleville 490 Edward Street, Middleville, Ml 49333 ./Spectrum v Health Pennock Smcndik, MO pionship. Raymond outscored Leslie’s Nathaniel Cortney 8-1 in the 171-pound championship match. Raymond, Brumm and Ertman have all eclipsed the 30-win mark for the season. "It was a good day for my kids. I’m super happy,” Maple Valley head coach Tony Wawiemia said. "Overall, our kids I thought wrestled real well. Our technique was great. We have been working on our outside shots and taking angles and stuff, and they came through wilh that today. The little things wc work on, they came through today.” Lakewood’s Kaiden Villanueva at 130 pounds, Donavan Pratt 145, Kyle Petrie 171 and Allen Shellington at 215 all placed third for lhe Vikings Friday, and teammate Trace Newton was fourth at 215 pounds. Maple Valley got third-place fijiishe/from David Hosack-Frizzell at 189 pounds and Jordan Thornton at 119. Lakewood was scheduled to travel to Portland for its Division 3 Team District Tournament last night, and will head to Williamston for its Individual District Tournament Saturday. Maple Valley goes to Fulton this evening for its Division 4 Team District Tournament. The Lions face Saranac in the district semifi­ nals, with the winner advancing to face Fulton in the district final, lhe Lions arc al Bloomingdale for their individual district Saturday. 1 Belew and Ferris win SAC Championships at Coloma A pair of 2019 state qualifiers got back on the Southwestern Athletic Conference medal stand for the second lime in 2020 for the Delton Kellogg varsity wrestling team. Senior Hunter Belew captured his second conference championship and sophomore Caden Ferris earned his second SAC medal by winning his first league title Saturday al (he SAC Championship al Coloma High School. Thc Delton Kellogg team also got a medal winning performance from 119-pounder Eslcvan Rodriguez, who placed third at his flight Saturday. Belew won a conference title as a sopho­ more in 2018 and returned to thc conference tournament to take the title in 2020, pinning Climax-Scotts/Martin’s James Hildebrand in the semifinals at 171 pounds before taking a forfeit win from Constantine’s Dakota Anthony in lhe championship round. Belew was lhe 152-pound conference champion as a sophomore. Ferris placed fourth at 215 pounds as a freshman last winter, and took lhe conference title as a sophomore this season with two quick pins. He stuck Coloma’s Travis Borr a minute and a half into their 215-pound cham­ pionship match. Ferris, a stale medalist a year ago, didn’t even need a minute to pin Lawton’s Ethan O’Donnell in their semifinal match-up. Rodrigucz bested Gobles’ Chris Ruiz in the consolation final to secure third place, pin­ ning lhe Tigers’ 119-poundcr in 49 seconds. That was Rodriguez’s second pin of the day. He stuck Evan Kovach from Lawton 1:00 into their quarterfinal match to open the tourna­ ment. Coloma’s Urgan Furguson scored a 20-4 win over Rodriguez, in thc 119-pound semifi­ nals, but Rodriguez bounced back with a technical fall of his own by piling up points in a 19-4 win over Constantine’s Jacob Ledesma in the consolation semifinals. Gage Vincent and Vtnnic Quick each had one win at lhe tournament for lhe DK Panthers. Lawton edged Schoolcraft for the day’s championship 144 to 140. Constantine was third wilh 124 points, ahead of Watervliet 109, Coloma 107. Climox-Scotts/Martin 965, Gobles 82, Delton Kellogg 655, GalesburgAugusta 335 and Fennville 17. Lawton had nine guys finish among lhe top four medalists at their weight class, led by championships from Landyn VanWyk at 140 pounds and Dustin Mallory al 103. Schoolcraft had eight total medalists and five champions, but only filled ten of the 14 weight classes Saturday in finishing four points behind lhe Blue Devils. ‘Die Eagles got lilies from Mark Fox at 160 founds. Hunter Martens al 119, Caden Sukich al 125, Gary Cramer at 130 and Caleb Nicwiadomski at 135 pounds. Delton Kellogg heads to Bloomingdale tonight for its Division 4 Team District Tournament, and then back to Bloomingdale Saturday for its Division 4 Individual District Tournament. The team tournament opens Thursday with the Panthers facing host Bloomingdale in one semifinal while ClimaxScotts/Martin lakes on Gobles in lhe other. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-02-20.pdf 475dc81ed800d9d56bb2860af4c81a96 PDF Text Text Regional qualifiers get set for Saturday Boeing, cof behind Flex See Stories in Section 2- Page 5 See Story 80487911018 Thursday, February 20, 2020 VOLUME 167, No. 8 PRICE 750 Student activists help launch first-ever HH§ climate change symposium i®* ■ I. Folk musician returning to Episcopal church Susan Grace Stolz, folk music trouba­ dour, storyteller, and environmental edu­ cator from Fairbanks, Alaska, will present a concert of music and hope in conjunc­ tion with the Care of Creation initiative of Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Hastings. Stolz was the featured musician at the dedication of a 62-panel solar array installed at the church in October 2019. Her repertoire of original songs express reverence for the Earth, the value of wildemess, and the joys and challenges of responsible human environmental action. She will return to Hastings for the concert Saturday, Feb. 22, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Emmanuel Episcopal Church is at 315 W. Center St. in Hastings, near the inter­ section with Broadway/M-37. Parking is available along the street and in the lot behind the church (off Broadway and Court streets). A freewill offering will be taken and Stolz’s CDs will be available for purchase. State rep. in Hastings Monday State Rep. Julie Calley, R-Portland, is planning to meet with constituents Monday, Feb. 24, at the Barry County Courthouse. Her office hours will take place in the commissioners’ chambers on the mezza­ nine at 220 W. State St., Hastings. Individual meetings from 1 to 2 will be followed by a legislative update from 2 to 2:30 p.m. If Hastings Area School System is closed due to inclement weather that day, Calley’s office hours also will be can­ celled. No appointment is necessary. Out of consideration for other attendees, individ­ ual meetings will be limited to 10 minutes each. Those wanting additional time or who are unable to attend the scheduled office hours may email JulieCalley® house.mi.gov or call 517-373-0842. Workshop giving third grade reading support tips Families are encouraged to acquire information regarding Michigan’s new “Read by Grade Three” law and learn how to support their children. The Family Support Center of Barry County will host a workshop addressing the topic Monday, Feb. 24, at Hastings Baptist Church, 309 E. Woodlawn Ave. The program will be presented by Sara Geukes, Central Elementary School prin­ cipal, and Paige Brandli, youth services librarian at Hastings Public Library. Transportation is available within the city limits for those who RSVP. Free child care is available with pre-registration. All attendees will receive credit for 1.5 hours of training. The entire program, including dinner and information, are free. Dinner will begin at 5:30, and the workshop will be 6 to 7:30 p.m. Registration can be completed online at familysupportbarry.com, clicking on ‘What we do’ and the ‘Family Workshop Series’ or by calling 269-945-5439. Nursing scholarship available The GFWC, Hastings Women’s Club, reminds all Barry County Women that a scholarship is again available for non-traditional students accepted into an accred­ ited LPN or RN nursing program. The $750 scholarship is administered See NEWS BRIEFS, page 3 Christian Yonkers “Our future is not hopeless,” Scheck said. Contributing Writer “There are things we can do that can impact Local students will bring home discussion the course of climate change and make it less of climate change with the launch of the first- of a burden for us.” Buehler, a science teacher of 30-plus ever Hastings High School Climate Change years, is no stranger to hands-on science and Symposium in March. The inaugural event for students will host activism. He has taught at Hastings High School for 14 expert speakers on climate changes, keynote sessions and breakout discussions. 26 years. He’ll be retiring this year so, for The symposium is particularly designed to him, the symposium is an opus of sorts. Buehler has spent summers researching help high school students understand the science behind climate change and learn what climate change in Toolik, Alaska, and the La they can do about it, organizers said. Keynote Selva Biological Station in Costa Rica. He has speakers will address a range of subjects, worked with world-class scientists to from climate science and meteorology to investigate how a wanning^ climate is molting politics, business and policy. Smaller breakout permafrost in the Arctic and causing sensitive discussions are intended to offer the opportunity to dive deeper into the climate Hastings High School students Katie Pattok (left) and Lindsay Meeker conduct See CLIMATE, page 3 biological surveys off the coast of Croatia. (Photos provided.) discussion. The March 11 symposium found its inception in an impromptu picket. Last year, Hastings senior Anna Scheck and several other students painted placards and took to the roadside for a national climate strike. Scheck presented a speech and, after planting several trees, students went back to class. To her surprise, school officials allowed other students to participate. Taylor Owens “If there’s no frost, they’re going to start to Science teacher Marty Buehler encouraged Staff Writer bud as soon as it gets quite warm and stays Scheck and her peers to put words into This year’s maple syrup season is too close warm,” Steve Hayes said. “Once the buds pop actions, suggesting the class initiate a climate to call* given the mix of mild conditions and on the trees, we’re done.” change symposium. cold sgaps. MaryAnn Hayes said an ideal syrup season The subject ofclimate change '^erybody says ‘ 1 don’t know.’ They’ve lasts four to six weefc. controversial, and the symposium is not never seen a year like this,” Vermontville “We were all a little leery about going into mandatory, Scheck said in a recent interview. Maple Syrup Corporation Festival President the year without any frost in the ground,’’ “We don’t want to force students who Steve Hayes said. Nashville Maple Syrup Association President don’t want to be there to attend,” she said. The corporation tapped maples in the vil­ Kalen Swift said. “Overall we’ve had a very Scheck is heading up a six-member lage of Vermontville Saturday in anticipation light winter.” student-led steering committee responsible of warm weather, though MaryAnn Hayes But when the temperatures recently dropped for organizing the symposium, which is part said many producers have yet to tap. into single digits, syrup producers breathed a of a larger movement of youth activists The Hayeses were surprised to find an inch sigh of relief that the season might hold out. demanding action on the issue. of sap already in the bottom of some buckets “I have a little better feeling right now,” An estimated 4 million people, largely by Tuesday evening, given the cold weather. Swift said. “Until we get to the end, we really young people and students, took to the streets Tree sap runs when temperatures warm up, don’t know.” in last year’s international Climate Strike in but once the trees start to bud in the spring, “It just seemed like it took a long time for protest of government and corporate inaction sap becomes bitter and unusable. The best winter to get here,” MaryAnn Hayes said. on climate change. MaryAnn Hayes of the Vermontville time for sap collecting is when temperatures But with the recent cold spell, she said she The upcoming Hastings symposium is cut Maple Syrup Corporation checks sap are above freezing during the day for sap to is “hopeful, optimistic” for a good year. from the same cloth; it is intended to inspire, run, but below freezing at night to prevent Both producers say they hope to have their buckets in Vermontville Tuesday. educate, encourage discussion, and empower budding. first sap boil in about a week. action. Mild winter leads to uncertain syrup season County recommends proceeding with Friend of the Court relocation FOC buildings future use not yet decided Rebecca Pierce Editor A $780,000-plus project to relocate the Barry County Friend of the Court offices to the Courts and Law Building will be getting under­ way soon, County Administrator Michael Brown told the Banner Tuesday. At their committee of the whole meeting Tuesday, county commissioners recommended approval of a schematic design by Landmark Design Group for renovations in the 206 W. Court St. building. Their action, if approved at the board meet­ ing next Tuesday, will authorize a $43,800 expenditure from the county’s building rehabil­ itation fund. Those funds would allow architect Timothy Spitzley of Lake Odessa to proceed with the construction drawing, bidding and contract administration phases of the project. The original architect on the project, Robert Van Putten, president of Landmark Design, has retired, Brown said. So, they had to find a new architect to handle the project, which involves relocating the Friend of the Court and public defender offices, along with improvements of security screening, adult probation reception and lobby, district court magistrate hearing room and district and probate court holding cells. Overall, the project estimate is between $789,000 and $957,000, Brown said. The cost range, per floor, is $341,00 to $377,000 for the work on the lower level; $315,000 to $398,000 on the first floor, $105,000 to $120,000 on the second floor and $55,000 to $62,000 on the third floor. “I think the project’s going to come closer to the $780,000 number,” Brown told commis­ sioners. It will take “a good 60 days” to get ready, he said, then to let it out for bids. “Then things will move quickly,” he said, predicting that con­ struction would get underway this summer. The plan is to put Friend of the Court staff on the first floor of the Courts and Law Building in the space occupied by the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission and the public defender’s office. Then those offices would move to the lower level. Although space previously occupied by Michigan State University Extension, which moved to the Tyden Center, is technically vacant, Brown said, “we’re in the process of emptying out the lower level and making it ready for construction ... That’s the space that all of our used equipment went to. We’re now going to have to figure out what to do with it.” The point people on the project are Court Administrator Ines Straube and commissioners Vivian Conner and Jon Smelker, Brown said. Some parts of the project would incorporate a more open floor plan with a modular panel office system, he added. But areas that require confidentiality would be maintained. Smelker said enhanced security measures, videoconferencing and video arraignments also were among technological considerations in making these upgrades. The Friend of the Court building is in excel­ lent shape, Brown said, and what will happen with that space has not yet been decided. At one point, county officials had considered moving a portion of the health department into the FOC building, once it is vacant. But, since the building is not large enough to house the entire health department, Brown said, it’s unlikely this idea would be feasible. Barry County Friend of the Court offices, currently at 102 S. Broadway in Hastings, are expected to relocate to the Courts and Law Building, 206 W. Court St. this summer. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) �Page 2 — Thursday, February 20, 2020 — The Hastings Banner City keys on housing, infrastructure upgrades Rebecca Pierce Editor , “The state of the city is good,” Hastings Mayor Dave Tossava told Hastings Rotary Club members Monday. * Tossava and City Manager Jerry Czarnecki delivered a State of the City program, reviewing the high points of 2019, in which record numbers attended the city’s top events: (he Barry-Roubaix bicycle race, the jazz festival and Gus Macker 3-on-3 basketball events. * The Barry-Roubaix, alone, has a $1 million impact on the city, Tossava said. I Record numbers of people attended all of these events. ’ The planning commission continued its work on the city’s master plan, which has four key sections: Downtown, housing, industrial and infrastructure. “The section that is getting the most attention and will make the most impact is the housing section,” Tossava said, mentioning four proposed housing units currently underway that will increase the city’s housing stock by 200 to 300 units. These are all in the planning stages, he said, “and we expect more to happen in the future.” Hastings Mayor Dave Tossava delivers his address to Rotarians Monday. (Photos by Rebecca Pierce) “The planning commission continues to modify ordinances to make the city more attractive to investors, residential and businesses ,” he added. A successful audit was just completed which gives a better look at financial developments that, hopefully, will include road and infrastructure improvements. The city has new personnel on board, including Czarnecki, clerk/treasurer Jane Saurman, and Matt Gergen, director of public services. “In 2020, we hope to finish our five-year master plan and a $9.5 million major improvement project to our wastewater treatment plant, resurfacing streets, and address a recreational marijuana ordinance as well as an ordinance to regulate small cell antennas in the city.” “I look forward to our success in 2020,” he said, “and to another great year.” Questions were asked about upgrades to the city’s computer, which Tossava said would be happening “within weeks,” and fiber optics, which Czarnecki said would not be part of the city’s infrastructure upgrades. The focus for upgrades is streets and the wastewater treatment plant, which will incorporate some “green” processes. Hastings City Manager Jerry Czarnecki offers insights about upcoming projects. Community forums drawing fewer participants Rebecca Pierce Editor Attendance ranged between 38 and 24 peo­ ple, respectively, at recent Barry County citi­ zen forums held to gather input on the deteri­ orating jail and Commission on Aging facili­ ties. Barry County commissioners listened to ideas and reactions from citizens at two forums, on Feb. 13 in Johnstown Township and on Feb. 18 in Middleville. Despite low turnout, the discussion may be having an impact: At Tuesday’s Committee of the Whole meeting, Commissioner Jon Smelker pro­ posed forming an ad hoc committee to do more research on Commission on Aging pro­ grams in other communities and to gather information on options that would best serve an aging population in the future. Commissioners recommended that his idea be considered for approval at next Tuesday’s board meeting. The first session, on Nov. 4 in Leason Sharpe Hall in Hastings, drew more than 100 people. A second forum took place on Jan. 22 ? at the Thomapple Valley Community Church, attracted roughly 80 attendees. With each forum, attendance has declined. “Our role is to help the community have a discussion,” Eric Hackman, senior project manager for TowerPinkster, said Tuesday night at the forum in Thomapple Kellogg Middle School. “Today, we come to make the same presentation we’ve made. . . . Now we’ve started to put some boundaries and options together.” Hackman made it clear that the commis­ sioners were attending these sessions to listen, not provide any opinions. Then he reviewed the current state of the jail and the COA buildings, offering different options, costs and ways to finance those costs. The range of possibilities, Hackman esti­ mated, involve a lowest cost option of reno­ vating and adding to the existing COA struc­ ture for a cost $3.78 million for a 20,000-square-foot structure to the highest cost project, which would - be a new 25,000-square-foot greenfield building for $8.33j million. Meanwhile, the jail/sheriff’s office, with Boeing, coronavirus and more behind layoffs at Flexfab Flexfab LLC announced Wednesday afternoon that it recently laid off approxi­ mately 63 factory associates in Hastings and also rightsized a dozen positions in the office. “These were very tough decisions for the organization to make, but when one of our largest customers, Boeing, completely stops production of their 737-Max aircraft, that’s a huge impact to the production of our parts for them,” Bill Rohr, vice president of human resources said in a press release. “We are also dealing with huge reductions in the heavy-duty truck industry, unprecedented material price increases, tariffs and now the impact from the recent coronavirus. “By choosing to right size the organiza­ tion, we are acting to protect our future in Hastings, and to create a stronger position for Flexfab over the long term.” In carrying out these decisions, he said company officials will look for every way to minimize impact on employees and the com­ munities in which Flexfab operates. “Clearly, the rightsizing will have an impact on our people and the community,” Rohr said, “but we are committed to ensur­ ing that those employees will be handled fairly and with compassion.” Flexfab LLC is a leading manufacturer of component parts for the aerospace, heavy-du­ ty truck, automotive and other industries that require flexible parts for use in extremes of heat and cold. Products include charge air connectors, coolant hoses, heater hoses, and special reinforced shapes of all kinds, as well as flexible ducting for a variety of applications. . In, Middleville. Tys.sday night, Dori Nevins attested to the crumbling jail facil­ ity. Jim Deters listens to Tina Winchester, on right, during small-group sessions in Middleville Tuesday night. (Photos by Rebecca Pierce) Barbara Coppins offers feedback during the Feb 13 Johnstown Township forum. THORimPPLE Thomapple Players will hold open auditions (high school seniors and up) on March 10, 2020 beginning at 7PM in the Dennison Performing Arts Center - 231 South Broadway (Use door on the Center Street side.) EI<?MT PRINCIPAL ROLES If you are unable to attend the DIVERSE AND ACTIVE ENSEMBLE WE ARE ALSO LOOKING audition or have questions, FOR ‘STROHS* DANCERS. please call Norma Jean at 269-945-2332 TAP DANCINS IS A PLUS. or Doug at 269 945 9249 to set up an alternate time BEFORE the scheduled audition date. Rehearsal dates and times 7-9:30PM (longer as show time approaches) Rehearsals Every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday Tech Rehearsal is Saturday, May 2 from 2-8PM. May 6 is open to the public dress rehearsal Curtain at 7PM Show Dates May 7,8,9 Curtain at 7PM May 10, Sunday matinee 2PM. Director-Julian Kratochvil ^^StTcounSi Music Director-Doug Acker Producer-Norma Jean Acker 1^®= costs depending on number of beds and square footage and site chosen, would range from a low of $21.8 million for a (108-bed jail) project utilizing the existing site to $28.5 million for the largest facility (160-bed jail) on a new greenfield site. He offered a primer in how millage elec­ tions and the sale of bonds work. He indicated it would be conceivable, during the course of the tax levy, the the property tax could go down. That part of the presentation elicited a neg­ ative reaction from a several audience mem­ bers who replied that tax levies never go down; they just increase. At the Johnstown Township forum, County Administrator Michael Brown caught an error in the math during the PowerPoint. That was the erroneous formula that elicit­ ed a negative reaction at the Jan. 22 forum. The slide was fixed for Tuesday’s presenta­ tion. TowerPinkster will provide a compflation of all the suggestions and input from the com­ munity and present it to the commissioners for their consideration. Hastings spring student count is 2,570 At the Johnstown Township forum on Feb. 13, Mike Nickerson asks about repurposing existing structures. Taylor Owens Staff Writer A total of 2,570 students in attendance during the spring count conducted at Hastings Area Schools Feb. 12. The state of Michigan uses a formula to track student count changes throughout the year to determine how much the school will receive in funding for each student. Hastings Superintendent Dan Remenap said the initial spring count is about nine stu­ dents down from the fall count. The spring count is typically lower than the fall count, and the drop won’t necessitate any major adjustments to the school’s budget. “What’s concerning to me is we’re 72 stu­ dents down from a year ago,” Remenap said. “Obviously, that’s not sustainable.” According to Michigan School Data, Hastings Area Schools had an average count of 2,659 students for the 2018-2019 school year. He said the drop was due to a number of factors, including lower birthrates, students moving out of the district and school of choice. Remenap said the district will focus on the issue it has the most control over - schools of choice. The district plans to perform an enrollment trend assessment to get a better look at the factors that are having an impact on the dis­ trict’s student numbers. The Hastings Banner will provide more coverage of this issue, along with student count data for other area districts. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 20, 2020 — Page 3 CLIMATE, continued from page 1----------tropical biomes to retreat. “The tundra and the tropical ecosystems are changing so radically [and] quickly, you can actually see it,” Buehler said. “The data is just scary on some of these things.” Sparing the gritty details of what the trends are saying, the fact that warming is happening at a record pace is enough to spur Buehler into action. “Change is happening at a faster rate than organisms can adapt to it,” he said. Even on the home front in Barry County, Buehler has noticed the impact of climate change. There’s a steady change in temperature swings affecting crops and growing seasons, which were clearly shown in laft year’s soybean harvests, he said. “Even here, there are changes, and it’s hard to determine which are affected by climate change alone, but there’s certainly something going on,” he said. “It helps when you know the science.” Data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration going back to the 1880s shows a steady rise in average temperatures. In Barry County specifically, from the mid-1970s on, average temperatures have moved steadily above the baseline, with 2019 average temperatures nearly 2 degrees Fahrenheit above historic averages. This 2-degree change took fewer than four decades to manifest, an unprecedented phenomenon in recorded history. As a hunter and angler, Buehler said he has noticed dwindling game numbers and even the disappearance of some throughout his lifetime. But students don’t have the luxury of a lifetime to observe these trends because of the speed with which events appear to be occurring. For Buehler, sharing his lifelong observations of climate change is an important supplement to scientific trends. “You take it all in and put the puzzle together to see it all,” Buehler said. “It’s overwhelming at times, but I like to share these stories with kids so they see it’s real, not just stories in a book.” In his Advanced Placement Environmental Science class, Buehler teaches students to research, write and publish original environmental projects. The symposium is a natural extension of their quest to make learning more than an academic exercise and something that can have an impact on the. environment. With an effusive group of students ready to support a symposium, Buehler lined up a group of speakers, then passed the baton to his steering committee. Four of the six members of die committee traveled to Croatia with Buehler last summer to catalog how climate change and ecotourism have impacted biodiversity. Students became dive certified and helped catalog marine biodiversity before returning home. Their passion, Buehler said, is forged in a vested interest in the future of their planet. Plus, they have a bit of skin in the game: They raised their own money for the Croatia trip. This, in fact, was instrumental in their transition from words to action, Buehler said, and is indicative of a new generation of ecological activists. “I always say to them: ‘My generation messed things up for you, and now you’ve gotta fix it,”’ he said. “No one else is going to do it for you.” Optimism is key, he added. Buehler has shifted his classes from pointing out what’s wrong in the world to focusing on solutions that work. “There is hope, and we can do something about it,” he said. “And if you don’t, the outcome is very clear what will happen, so you have to try.” Looking back on his life, Buehler has noticed the push for the dollar has subsumed Hastings students stage a protest and tree planting in September 2019. The protest spurred the creation of next month’s climate change symposium. Hastings High School senior Anna Scheck is at the helm of a six-member steering committee planning Hastings’ first youth climate change conference next month. the long-term sustainability of society. It’s human nature to chase short-term profit over long-term sustainability, he said. Unfortunately, the next generation often pays the price, Buehler noted, so he’s working to help his students step up and intervene. After all, there’s still time, he said. According to the United Nations International Convention on Climate Change, to move the world temperature average to the lower end of imminent heating projections 1.5 degrees Celsius - worldwide carbon emissions would need to be cut by 45 percent by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050. “It’s hard for me to be optimistic, knowing human nature/’ Buehler said, “but, then again, I see that so many people are working toward making a difference.” Buehler straddles a paradoxical world between the old guard and the new. On one hand, he rubs shoulders with people who combine the words “climate” and “change” as often as they do “fun” and “taxes.” At the same time, on a daily basis, he invests in pre­ paring a new generation to creatively engage the planet’s most egregious environmental and social problems. “The kids that I see these days, I’m not worried [about] when I’m dead and gone, because they’ll handle it,” he said. “They have a ton of energy, a ton of positive out­ looks on things, they’re well-educated ./. we’re going to be fine with those kidsLin charge of the future.’’ Scheck and her peers have watched their student-led movement grow from a small pro­ test into organized initiative featuring regional experts . The development made Scheck realize it’s easier to enact change than it seems, bolster­ ing the young activist’s resolve that real change is not only possible, but inevitable. “It gives us the power that generations before us haven’t really taken,” Scheck said. “It seems, a lot of the time, that we can’t do anything, and, despite protests, lawmakers don’t do anything. But eventually we will be in those seats, and we have the power to make a difference and be a voice.” Social media has helped globalize and mobilize modern movements. But there’s more to the youth climate action movement than hashtags and what’s trending: The reality of a planet drastically different than their par­ ents’ strikes a chord for many youth: To fight for a better world, the world’s health must be fought for first. “[Climate change] is the most basic of movements,” Scheck said. “If quality of life severely decreases ... how can we justify other issues while not also fighting for this one?” Buehler and the student committee can­ vassed regional schools with invites. So far, more than 500 students are attending from 24 area schools, including Grand Rapids, Lowell, Thornapple Kellogg, Delton Kellogg, Potterville, Grand Ledge, Muskegon, Pennfield, Battle Creek, Kalamazoo, Hudsonville, and others. A star-studded panel of speakers will launch discussions into the multiple facets of climate change: Lester Graham and Rebecca Williams of Michigan Radio’s “The Environment Report;” Dr. Andrew Hoffman, professor of environment and sustainability at the University of Michigan, as well as other academic professionals, meteorologists and experts in the field. “The speakers we have sells itself,” Buehler said. “They’re the key people in this state doing work [in climate change].” Teaching news literacy and making sense of data and political rhetoric are other talking points for the symposium. Buehler said he hopes the discussions will help students gain the tools they need to be informed and make knowledgeable decisions. “The speakers will directly say how change can be made,” Scheck said. “The fact that the event is happening at all is way more than what high school students are normally expected to pull off. I think that, in and of itself, is a message.” ; Eleanor McFarlan, a Hastings High School senior, also serves on the committee. The cli­ mate problem is real for her, she said, because^ she’s been there and seen it. McFarlan was Buehler’s dive partner in Croatia. The experience impressed upon her the global span of climate change, but she was most impacted by seeing it locally while vol­ unteering at Pierce C$fer Creek Institute 10 miles south of her high school. . “It helped me see how close it is to home/’ she said. “You always hear about it in big broad terms, but it’s crazy to see how much if affects us locally.” She did the math: Loss of biodiversity and change in climate abroad and at home equals a global issue. For students involved, the symposium is just the first of many public forays into envi­ ronmental activism. After graduation, McFarlan wants to chan­ nel her passion into studying environmental science. Schibck is particularly interested in the role renewable energy will play in reduc­ ing carbon emissions and energy costs. “You hear older people talking all the time about how winters are getting more mild,” she said. “This year was the third warmest winter [on record], and it scares me that things are changing much faster than people think it is.” She’s not wrong. The warming trend’s con­ sistent climb up the thermometer suggests that Delton schools considering fiber optic cables Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Major improvements to Delton Kellogg’s internet connectivity could be coming, and, through a Federal Communication Commission program, the school’s cost may be minimal. Information and physical security engineer Russ Aspinwall from Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency spoke at Monday night’s board meeting. Aspinwall reported on a grant for which the district may be eligible to receive fiber optic internet lines. The grant is through the FCC’s E-Rate program which aims to give eligible schools discounts on various communications equipment. As part of that report, he also spoke about bids sent in by various communication companies to pro­ vide the school with internet connectivity services. Delton Kellogg currently uses the services of Barry MEI and telephone. Aspinwall rec­ ommended the board go with a bid from Ammcomm for $344,385. However, because that program may make the school eligible for an E-Rate grant, if approved, the cost would be covered by the grant. The district’s out-of-pocket cost, he said, would be around $1,200 for some additional electronics. The Ammcomm bid is about half the low­ est bid last year, something Aspinwall said was very attractive to E-Rate. Rather than lease services from Barry MEI, through the Ammcomm bid, the school would construct its own cables which would connect to Hastings and then the statewide education servers. Hastings is the hub from which the state directs its servers for Barry County schools. After construction, the school would own the fiber optic cables rather than continuing to lease from different companies. The only recurring cost to the district would be tree trimming or maintenance on the cables. E-Rate would continue to cover 80 percent of any maintenance cost the district may incur. Aspinwall said, even while taking less time this year, the district could potentially not know if E-Rate will approve its proposal until the end of summer, at the latest. But with the new bid, if approved, the dis­ trict will be set to save thousands of dollars on maintenance and technology costs. Technology director Thang Nguyen said the upgrade would allow the district to put the money it saved back into the classroom. “You see more improvement in the class­ room as opposed to allocating more toward the infrastructure side, which no one sees and no one really cares, but we do,” he said. “And you have to have it,” board Vice President Jim McManus added. Trustee Craig Jenkins asked Aspinwall about opposition to the change. “I’m not sure there is one without going into deep political pieces,” Aspinwall said. “From a financial aspect, it makes sense to do this for a district. “I say that, and [Superintendent] Kyle [Corlett] knows, I was a board member for four years as well. And when I look at this in my eyes and as a board member, I’m like ‘Well I need to save the district money.’ I don’t see a downside. It’s 100 percent cov­ ered, and it’s an asset that the district now owns. Besides some political theories, there isn’t really a downside.” If the district goes with the plan, it is not allowed to lease out the lines to any other businesses. However, the school would be allowed to let Delton District Library utilize the lines. The lines would be mostly overhead; bur­ ied lines would be seven or eight times more expensive than overhead. “So, we hear a lot that some places in Barry County are in line for one of these broadband grants; we don’t know which part of Barry County will be receiving the benefit of that grant,” McManus said. “Would it be advanta­ geous for us to wait and see if our area is one of the areas served by that grant so that we could be served more locally?” “The broadband initiative is really more for home users,” Aspinwall said. “It doesn’t real­ ly deal with education or commercial enti­ ties.” The board did not make any decision on the matter. In other business Monday, board members: -Approved their food service policy with the only change being that the school follows the state’s healthy snack guidelines. -Defined a full-time student as being enrolled in six classes, as requested by Corlett. -Named Carol Hersha as official designee for board public notices. -Hired Sara Mast as the middle school assistant track and field coach. The next school board meeting will be 7 p.m. March 16 in the elementary school library. the world is heating up quickly. And the sci­ ence indicates that it will for quite some time - unless a generation mobilizes. “It inspires me to work hard on finding ways to combat this,” McFarlan said. “We can’t just keep doing what we’ve been doing. It’s so bad for our future. It’s hurting the envi­ ronment that we take for granted every day.” Water quality is close to her heart. When not studying for or competing in Science Olympiad or planning the symposium, she’s knees-deep, literally, in a research project investigating the impact of road sediment in Glass Creek. “I’m hoping [the symposium] will help people see the actual effects of climate change,” McFarlan said. “You hear about it, but actually seeing these things in person will actually educate people.” The projected effect on human and ecolog­ ical health caused by climate change is a strong impetus for action, McFarlan said. “The fact that future generations are not going to be successful is one of the biggest issues [surrounding climate change].” After all, society won’t thrive if it’s built on a failing Earth, she pointed out. “If you don’t care about [climate change], it will hurt you in the long run. And we should care, because we are the ones that can actually make a change.” Steering committee members surprised their peers when they announced the climate change symposium, a Barry County first. “We’ve never really had anything like this in the community,” McFarlan said. What about those who are skeptical that climate change is real? McFarlan said she sees addressing climate change as a win-win, no-regrets mission, regardless of any skepticism about the science that points to it. Put in perspective, if business-as-usual continues, the world is likely to warm by 3 to 6 degrees C (between 5.4 and 10.8 degrees Fahrenheit), with disastrous human and eco­ logical consequences, according to the mas­ sive collaborative on climate change called Project Drawdown). ■ On the flip side, decarbonization, despite its upfront cost, would save the world econo­ my $74.36 trillion by 2050 and keep tempera­ tures within a relatively safe threshold. “Either we address it, we do make the world a better place, and we do stop climate change,” McFarlan said. “Or [climate change] is not real, and we still do it, and we still cre­ ate a better world ... “I feel like, seeing that, my generation is going to step up to the challenge.” For more information about the sympo­ sium, visit www. HighSchoolClimateSymposium.com. NEWS BRIEFS continued from front page by the Barry Community Foundation, and the guidelines, requirements and forms for online submission can be found on the foun­ dation’s website, barrycf.org. Applicants who have a connection to a member of the Hastings Women’s Club are encouraged to submit a letter of recommen­ dation along with the forms. Questions may be directed to Annie Halle at the foundation, by calling 269-945-0526. The deadline for the final submission of the application form and attachments is March 1. Blue Zones meeting planned Monday Anyone interested in getting involved with the Blue Zones Activate Barry County Initiative may attend a meeting from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24, at Hastings Public Library. Allison Troyer Wiswell to Jiscuss various ways to help increase awareness and group engagement for Activate Barry County. Individuals may register on the Hastings Public Library website or the library’s Facebook page. Hastings clergy offering ‘Ashes2go’ For the past two years, a group of Hastings clergy has offered residents the opportunity to receive a cup of coffee, a prayer and the traditional mark of ashes on the forehead at the beginning of Lent, symbolizing human frailty and need of God’s mercy and redemp­ tion. This year, Ashes2Go will be offered in a “drive-through” area of the parking lot of Emmanuel Episcopal Church at the comer of Broadway and Center streets in Hastings, Ash Wednesday, Feb. 26, between 7 and 9:30 am. The parking lot is behind the church and can be entered from either Broadway or Court Street. More information is availably from Par­ ticipating ministers: Pastor Linnea Stiffer (Emmanuel Episcopal Church), Pastor Kim Metzer (Hope United Methodist Church), Pastor Danny Quanstrom (Hastings Nazarene), Pastor Ken Scheck (Grace Lutheran) and Pastor Bryce Feighner (Green Street UMC). These five churches also are sharing a Lenten program of Wednesday noon Soup, Study and Sharing, around the topic of Discerning of God’s Will in one’s life. Call any of the parishes for more details. Cold or Flu Symptoms? See a doctor online 24/7 and feel better today. Getting sick is never convenient, but getting care should be! Now you can have a video visit with a doctor from the comfort of your home on your phone, tablet or computer. Visit bronsonhealth.com/videovisit to download our app and get the care you need now. * Bronson Video Visit �Page 4 — Thursday, February 20, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Taking the plunge Preparing youth for life after high school Polar dip participant Tony Niefert, one of the “Healing Hope with Happiness” folks, gives a thumb-up as he leaps into the icy waters of Gun Lake at Winterfest Saturday, Feb. 15. Niefert’s jump was made amid the volunteer aquatic rescue team always pres­ ent during the event to help the jumpers out of the lake after their plunge. (Photo by Heather Tolsma) We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that rep­ resents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Please include information such as where and when the photo was taken, who took the photo, and other relevant or anecdotal information. Do you remember? Banner Feb. 16, 1972 The Hastings FFA Farm Forum team won second place in the district FFA Farm Forum Contest, with the Caledonia team taking top honors in the field of 12. The HHS team included (from left) Pete Dunn, Jerry Morgan, Leon Casey and Sherry Williams. Carol Borton, the chairman of the team, was not available when the photo was taken. Have you met? Chase Youngs is all about connecting with young people in Barry County. Anyone who has visited the Hastings Community Education and Recreation Center or attended a school sporting event probably has caught a glimpse of him. Youngs, 47, was bom in the Detroit area, Jan. 24, 1973. His parents Steve and the late Mary (Groesbeck) Youngs relocated the fam­ ily to Hastings around 1976. He is the oldest of three boys; brothers, Christian, 46, and Edward, 40, live in the Hastings area. The 1991 graduate says he didn’t have any specific focus as a student, other than “Just being a high school kid. “I was somewhat academic, I played three sports - football, basketball, and track. I let­ tered in tennis one year. Outside of school I was a Boy Scout, but I wasn’t a very good one. I did a lot of sports outside of school. We just hung around with a lot of kids around town. We did stuff with the 4Y’ [YMCA], but when school started, we pretty much did a bunch of school sports. They didn’t have AAU like they do now, so it was me and like 10 other guys. “There were always pick-up games, play­ ing down at the park ... we were always playing these games. Basically, we’d meet up, figure out who’s house had the most bikes at it and that’s where we’d end up.” After high school, Chase attended Michigan Tech in Houghton for 3 1/2 years but didn’t finish due to a football injury. He returned to Hastings, married Stacey Rowley, now 47, and eventually finished his degree at Aquinas College in 2013. His degree was in secondary education, and he student taught at Hastings Middle School. However, his life ended up taking a differ­ ent direction when he was offered a job with the YMCA of Barry County. “It was something I enjoyed doing, so I just kind of kept doing that,” he said. “I don’t think my teaching degree has gone to waste. I am still active with kids here at the school, I am coaching a lot ... it’s still being used just in different ways.” He has been director of the CERC since 2016. He has coached several teams, most Chase Youngs recently middle school volleyball and bas­ ketball. He’s also been known to help out when the transportation department has needed bus drivers for sporting events or bus routes. He and Stacey have three daughters. Madeline, 21, will soon graduate from Northern Michigan University. Elisabeth, 18 is a freshman at Aquinas College; and Brooklynn, 16, is a freshman at Hastings High School. For his dedication to the youth of Barry County, his love of sports and recreation and his willingness to help others, Chase Youngs is this week’s Banner Bright Light. What I like about my job: Being around high school kids keeps you in tune with what’s going on. Being around people who give their lives to teaching and being around kids and trying to do something that is out­ side themselves, it’s just a good place to be. Favorite superhero: I would say Superman, because it’s the first superhero movie I can ever remember seeing. If I could build anything: A self-pro­ pelled lawn mower that I didn’t have to ride. Favorite movie: I really like “Caddyshack.” Best thing about Barry County: I think it’s awesome because you’re close to every­ where but there’s no highway that runs through it, and I still know most of the peo­ ple I grew up with.. Something most people don’t know about me: I am deathly afraid of three things: Heights, spiders and the dentist. And they are all about the same in my book. Best gift: This is going to sound stupid, but for my birthday this year I got a new wedding ring from my daughters and my wife and it is a replica of the ring from the “Lord of the Rings.” It is the coolest gift, and I was totally surprised by it. If I could go anywhere: I would like to go to Key West. That place just looks really cool. (Ernest) Hemingway was down there: Africa, Asia, places that seem to be in a for­ eign world, places that seem unreal. Best advice received: Anger and resent­ ment just hurts you. I think I got that from my grandfather. He was maybe one of the nicest, most soft-spoken guys. I don’t remember him being mad about much, and I think it was him who told me that. Favorite historic period: Medieval times. I am amazed that they were able to do the things and build the things they did without mechanics. It was pretty primitive but yet they built castles without electricity or power tools but I can’t put together a door frame without at least five different power tools at my access. Best advice for a high school student: Don’t get caught up in the immediate. There is a bigger picture outside of it. There is a whole wide world outside of the “right now.” Each week, the Banner profiles a person who makes the community shine. Do you know someone who should be featured because of volunteer work, fun-loving per­ sonality, for the stories he or she has to tell or any other reason? Send information to Newsroom, Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news @j -adgraphics .com. Everyone can remember the teacher who insisted that learning history is important so we don’t repeat the mistakes of the past. I was recalling that history lesson last week as my granddaughter was completing essay questions on a college entrance exam. One of the more interesting questions was, “What do you think are the biggest issues facing young people today?” It was a ques­ tion on which we had differing perspectives, likely due to our difference in age. Her list was probably not unlike that of most teenagers who would include drugs, college debt, social media, personal issues and the like. My list would relate more to jobs, the economy, automation and the lack of social skills today’s youth need to com­ pete in the job market. Different issues, to be sure, but every generation has had a list as it faced the future. Too often, though, we never see the solutions that are right under own noses. In no way do I discount the tangled and fearsome issues young people face today. I’m happy I didn’t have to deal with drugs, college debt and social media when I was trying to figure out life. Today I may worry even more about my granddaughter’s gener­ ation, though, because it spends so much time in front of screens and lacks the soft skills it’ll need to deal with a global market­ place. Young people say the use of technology doesn’t prevent them from socializing, but employers remain concerned with their inability to put down their phones, be on time and stay interested in the task assigned. Parents expect them to get a well-paying job, get married, buy a house and enjoy life. Statistics say many will find all of that diffi­ cult. With housing costs on the rise, living a life like their parents enjoyed will become a challenge for this upcoming generation. I worry even more about the substantial number of teens who are reporting anxiety and depression, bullying, drug, alcohol use, and abuse as major problems. Serious mental stress is a fact of life for many American teens, says a recent Pew Research report that cites seven in 10 teens report anxiety and depression as major problems among their peers. According to a recent University of Michigan survey, though fewer teens are drinking alcohol, they are replacing it with various illicit- drugs ^Researchers noted that vaping, of both nicotine and marijuana, has jumped in popularity in the past few years. Plus, a growing number of teens report being bullied at school as well as cyberbullying via text, social media or other digital means ~ fueling anxiety, depression and suicide rates. The National Institute of Health reports that nearly one in three of all adolescents’ ages 13 to 18 will experience an anxiety disorder. These numbers have been rising steadily, causing researchers to ask, “What’s causing the rise in teenage anxiety, and how did we get here?” My observation is that, between standard­ ized testing and a culture of achievement, today’s youth feel pressure to succeed in ways previous generations did not. A survey by Higher Education Research asks incom­ ing college freshmen if they feel over­ whelmed by all they have to do. In 2016,41 percent of students said “yes” compared with 28 percent in 2000 and 18 percent in 1985. But how often do we ask our young people, “What does success look like?” Someone once said, “A great life is not something we experience, it’s something we create.” But where will this next generation get the skills needed to find their version of success, to make a better life for everyone? That thought had been perplexing me until I picked up my copy of this week’s Reminder and remembered the old history class lesson that solutions to modem challenges may lie with the resources we already have. The Feb. 15 Reminder featured FFA, which empowers students to become better leaders through personal growth. The orga­ nization plays a crucial role in defining a student’s path toward a lifetime of signifi­ cant achievements. An FFA poster reads, “Some people dream of success, in FFA we What do you work hard to achieve it.” So many of us have long looked at FFA as an agricultural program that kids from farms join in an effort to learn more about agricul­ ture. Today’s FFA programs, though, attract a diverse group of students and prepares them for the next step on whatever journey they choose to follow in life. Students gain public speaking skills, record-keeping and interviewing skills, teamwork and more. They learn about government, how to run a meeting and life skills they might not get in a traditional classroom. The Reminder article highlighted benefits provided by those who decide to participate in FFA programs, mainly from the perspec­ tive of former members ranging in age from their 20s to 50s. Yet, only a small percentage of local students take part each year, with only 670,000 members enrolled in FFA pro­ grams nationwide. Of the schools in the Reminder circulation area, only Hastings, Maple Valley and Caledonia still have active FFA programs. “There truly is a space for everyone to succeed in FFA,” said Katie (Eldred) Hill, a former Maple Valley FFA member. “The skills you gain in FFA will prepare you for whatever is next in your journey, be that college or other education pursuits or the workforce.” So why aren’t we pushing more of our students to participate in our FFA programs, regardless of their career plans? Everything FFA offers is something our kids need to know. “Almost everything I do today had a beginning through my experience in FFA,” said Lani Forbes, executive director of Barry County United Way. “Accounting skills through having to operate a virtual farm for a year, down to balancing the checkbook, public extemporaneous speaking and demon­ stration skills, as well as parliamentary pro­ cedures came from my FFA experience.” In recent years, we’ve talked about the importance of more career and technical education programs in our schools, yet FFA has long been an essential part of our nation’s career and technical education system. So it’s only fitting that we persuade more of our students to be a part of a program that pro­ motes relationships, special experiences, and the discipline that takes kidsP-a&s 'far aS they want to go and are willing to work. . FFA is for anyone, whether a child wants to be an engineer, a doctor, a business owner or a farmer, because it gives him or her the foundation of leadership skills they’ll need to succeed in anything they choose to do. The world is a challenging place, so it’s imperative that parents, teachers and local leaders understand their role by helping chil­ dren take on new challenges, build coping strategies and learn the resiliency skills they’ll need to adapt to an ever-changing world. Fundamentally important for every teen­ ager is getting involved in an extracurricular activity like FFA. If programs outside the everyday curriculum were encouraged maybe even required - by our schools, stu­ dents may realize there is life beyond their digital screens and a richness in helping others succeed. “Learning to do, doing to learn, earning to live, living to serve,” is the FFA motto that defines a member’s path toward a series of significant achievements that will prepare them for the challenges ahead. Let’s not let history mark the mistakes we’ve made in the past. Let’s keep making history an admired story. Fred Jacobs, CEO, J-Ad Graphics Inc. think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www. HastingsBanner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported along with a new question the fol­ lowing week. Last week: Should the presidential primary be conducted one day across the nation, rather than in individ­ ual states over a span of several months? Yes 37% No 62% For this week: A bill pending before the state Legislature would make regularly scheduled election days in May, August and November state holidays. Do you think that would be a good idea? □ Yes □ No �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 20, 2020 — Page 5 Put COA on ballot; let voters decide Rutland Township agrees to road millage ballot question Luke Froncheck Staff Writer The consensus of the Rutland Charter Township Board of Trustees at its Feb. 12 meeting was they should seek a road millage in the next year. Once that agreement was reached, the board had another question: When? Supervisor Larry Watson asked board members their views on any potential millage as a part of his supervisor’s report. Trustees Marlin Walters and Sandra James were absent from the meeting. Some board members acknowledged that the last time the township sought a road mill­ age, voters responded with a resounding no. “I know how it has turned out in the past, but that doesn’t mean it will be the same,” Watson said. The previous road millage asked $500,000 for dust control and work on some paving projects. “I’m of the opinion we should ask,” Trustee Matt Spencer said. “I think the money needs to be put into the roads. If we don’t ask for it then we don’t know. It’s going to be a tough sell because of our governor and fixing the roads.” Watson asked trustees about putting a road millage on the August ballot. Because the township already will be pay­ ing for elections in August and November, putting a road millage question on the ballot would impose no additional cost to the town­ ship. “Now is the time to do it,” Watson said. Another concern board members had was that they could potentially be competing with requests for a jail millage and a Commission on Aging millage in the August election. If the township waits until November, board mem­ bers expressed concern that a road millage question could be buried in other ballot items. The other issue with the November ballot is potential state proposals that could be added. Board members agreed to place a millage request on the ballot, but they did not decide on an amount or whether the request would appear on the August or November ballot. In other business, the board: - Passed a resolution that updates the per­ sonal leave policy for township employees. Given Wednesday’s approval, regular hourly employees are now eligible for paid personal leave and holiday pay if the holiday falls on their scheduled workdays. This change comes as the township is expecting to hire a new employee who will work less than 20 hours a week. Under the former policy, the employee would not be eligible for paid personal and holiday leave. - Approved a PAI 16 farmland application for Luke Haywood. - Approved a fireworks permit requested by the Algonquin Lake Association for its show Friday, July 3. - Voted to establish an absentee voter counting board for even-year elections due to the number of absentee ballots that must be counted. The next township board meeting is sched­ uled for 7 p.m. March 11. The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: •All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; U.S. mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. In politics, love truly is blind To the editor: I have a friend who says she loves someone, and I am worried about her. I imagine that a lot of us have been in this situation. Some friend or family member we care about has fallen for someone we don’t trust. It’s hard to find a way to talk to them about it. Recently I tried, but sometimes love really is blind. I said he’s been married a bunch of times before and he has cheated on every one of his wives. She said that was in the past. He’s changed. I said he routinely says terrible things about women and has even bragged about being so cool he can grab women who are strangers by their private parts and get away with it. She said that wasn’t true. I said, “I heard it myself, you must have heard it, too. There’s a recording which he admitted was him ” She changed the subject and said he’s rich. He was a good provider. I said he’s cheated a lot of his business partners, borrowing money, not paying it back and then declaring bankruptcy. He doesn’t pay his taxes. He’s had illegal immigrants working for him for years. But he’s a successful businessman, she said. Lots of businessmen do stuff like that. It’s how you get ahead. But he treats his employees like crap, I said. When he hires them, he says they’re the best people, they’re wonderful, they’re heroes. But a lot of them have quit and said what a terrible boss he is. Some of them have called him stupid or an idiot or crazy. And he doesn’t have the nerve to fire them to their faces. They find out by tweets. “Doesn’t that tell you something?” I asked. She said they’re sore losers. It’s nothing but sour grapes. I reply that that’s a lot of sour grapes. How can you trust him? I asked. She pointed out that he’s big on law enforcement, and she has a lot of respect for the law. I told her that he doesn’t seem to have any respect for the law. He has a lot of ex-employees who have pleaded guilty to crimes or have been convicted. A bunch of them have actually gone to prisofi. That sure makes me wonder what he has been up to. She said there are people who have been trying to get him, but he’s never been convicted of a crime. I reminded her of crime boss Don Gotti, the “Teflon Don.” He was charged with dozens of crimes for years before they finally put him away. Having good lawyers and lots of influence kept him out of jail for a long time. He thought he was invincible, but he was a crook and eventually was convicted. You can only fool people and cheat for so long, I pointed out. She replied that he doesn’t cheat. So I asked: What about his bogus charity and his fake university? She said he just settled out of court to keep his enemies from harassing him. I said he thinks anybody who criticizes him is his enemy. If you think everybody who doesn’t swear loyalty to you is your enemy, don’t you think that’s paranoid? That’s scary. He lies all of the time, I said. Hardly a day goes by that he doesn’t lie. She said she believes him. Everybody else is lying. So I don’t know what I can do. I’m worried. She said she loves him and he would never do anything to hurt her. She said he protects her from “them.” I didn’t push her there. Maybe I’m one of “them,” too. Maybe he’ll go after me. But I said he is mean-spirited and goes after an awful lot of people in the world. She said he is just strong enough to speak his mind. One thing he has never been strong enough to say is “I’m sorry.” Truly strong people know when they have caused pain and try to apologize to those they’ve hurt. I said I’ve never actually heard him say “I’m sorry.” She said that’s my problem; she loves him. Well, I still worry. And I think it’s her problem, too. Dr. Kenneth M. Komheiser, Prairieville Township Sewer authority should limit intake, discharge Bedbug issue quickly resolved To the editor: The Southwest Barry County Sewer Authority is not the main culprit in the flood­ ing of Crooked Lake, but it is a contributor. Since the Watson Drain district residents are having to pay to pump water out of Crooked Lake, doesn’t it make sense for the sewer authority to do what it can to eliminate any unnecessary discharge? For instance, it currently receives more than 2.6 million gallons of septage by trucks which could be diverted elsewhere. Also, why shouldn’t any new hookups to the sewer be put on hold until the drain com­ missioner’s long-term solution is implement­ ed? Taylor Owens Staff Writer Bedbug treatments were performed by Griffin Pest Solutions at Hastings High School Friday after the bugs were detected in five different locations in the school. “Everything I heard is the treatments went well, we’re bedbug-free as far as I know,” Superintendent Dan Remenap said. “We’ll keep monitoring things.” He said the school may bring in a bed­ bug-sniffing dog later in the school year to make sure the bugs haven’t returned. A dog detected bedbugs in the school Feb. 11, after a student showed a teacher bite marks. Larry Osborne, Delton Melissa Brill,; Hastings U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. Check out all our Special Services: * * * * * * U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Gary Peters, Democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510­ 2202, phone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room 720, 110 Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 233­ 9150. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. Business Cards Greeting Cards Big Prints & Posters Folding & Laminating Custom Rubber Stamps Plastic Binding and more! 1351 N.Broadwav (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00 - 5:30 J"1 CANADIAN RIVER CRUISING 4,5,6,7 night cruises on the The Hastings ££<1111161* replica steamboat Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Published by... CANADIAN EMPRESS Quebec City, Ottawa, Kingston departures News and press releases: news@j-adgraphics.com •Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com Call now to request our travel brochure www.StLawrenceCruiseLines.com 1 -800*267*7868 Publisher & CEO Hank Schuuring CFO Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Ty Greenfield Mike Gilmore Chris Silverman Jennie Yonker Subscription Rates: $45 per year in Barry County • NEWSROOM • Rebecca Pierce (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer (Sports Editor) Greg Chandler Taylor Owens 253 Ontario St., Suite 200 Kingston. ON K7L 2Z4 •ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • $50 per year in adjoining counties $55 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box 188 Hastings, Ml 49058-0188 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, Ml 49058 I GUTTER PR0TECTI0N IO FINANCE wo #2168740 N0 MORE GUTTER CLEANING, OR YOUR MONEY BACK GUARANTEED! IO OFF DISCOUNTS | FREE ESTIMATES! 1-855-909-2254 Promo Number: 285 K. A. MUELLER ACCOUNTING 221 South Jefferson Street Hastings, Michigan (269) 945-3547 www.kamuelleraccounting.com PERMANENT METAL ROOFING American JSr Metal Roofs St, Lawrence and Ottawa rivei aboard the nostalgic Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Frederic Jacobs To the editor: ; I am a volunteer at the Commission on; Aging, and I am asking that the COA be put on' the ballot for voters to decide. In 2018, 1,800 senior citizens were served; 63,721 meals were provided to seniors; 12,607 in home care hours were provided; 74,000 miles were driven by Meals on Wheels staff, and volunteer drivers. At congregate dining sites, 8,180 meals were served to 677 seniors; 723 hours of assistance were given to seniors* for the Medicare/Medicaid assist program; and 10,554 hours were provided by the COA Adult Daycare Services. The COA allows senior citizens to socialize,' eat lunch at one of many sites throughout Barry County, or stay in their own homes longer because of the aid of Meals on Wheels and in-home care. They also can take exercise or classes, join support groups, attend various events and parties, go on field trips, and get financial services and home repair help, too. The COA represents the very definition of independence for senior citizens. It has been brought up by some that maybe these services would be better suited elsewhere. Clearly these ideas lack supporting evidence" and perspective. What the COA provides for the citizens of Barry County cannot be replaced or replicated. The popular gossip being spread about some synergy Thomapple Manor nursing facility is ridiculous at best. Thomapple Manor is not: close to housing, city services, pharmacies or stores. Thornapple Manor is not the symbol off senior independence; it is the next step after that independence is no longer an option. The term “synergies” was thrown around as a term to rationalize the possible fragmentation of the COA’s services, but the definition of the term describes the current state of the COA. “The interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances, or other agents to produce a combined effort greater than the sum of the separate effects.” The COA works hand in hand with United Way, local physician offices, Department ofHealth and Human Services, Humane Society, State of Michigan Medicaid/Medicare assistance program, Care Well Services of Battle Creek, Senior Project Fresh of Michigan and many more. There are synergies existing between the various congregate sites and our Hastings site. They are synergies between our Meals on Wheels program and home aid services. There are synergies between adult day care program and nutrition coordinator, and there are synergies with the activity coordinator and all the congregate site managers. I am speaking for those who can’t go to public forums, because they are homebound; they depend on our Meals on Wheels drivers to check on them sometimes daily; they depend on in-home care so that they can stay in their own homes as long as possible. I am speaking for those who cannot speak because they have dementia and, during the day, spend time at the COA Day Care where they enjoy brain games and activities that give them a sense of dignity, happiness and safety. Whether the county board decides to put the COA on the ballot or not, the issue of providing adequate services to senior citizens of Barry County will not go away; it will only continue to grow. County board members have to decide if they will support the COA, an already thriving and growing nonprofit fighting for the seniors and their independence, or if they will allow the COA to be pushed aside at the moment that they can do the most good for the citizens the commissioners were elected to represent. I Mon-Thurs: 8am-11pm, Fri-Sat: 8am-5pm, Sun: 2pm-8pm EST CSLB# 1035795 DOPL #10783658-5501 License# 7656 License# 50145 License# 41354 License# 99338 License# 128344 License# 218294 License# 603 233 977 License# 2102212986 License# 2106212946 License# 2705132153A License# LEAFFNW822JZ License# WV056912 License# WC-29998-H17 Nassau HIC License# H01067000 Registration# 176447 Registra­ tion# HIC.0649905 Registration# C127229 Registration# C127230 Registration# 366920918 Registration# PC6475 Registra­ tion# IR731804 Registration# 13VH09953900 Registration# PA069383 Suffolk HIC License# 52229-H �Page 6 — Thursday, February 20, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Worship Together ■ ■ ■■ ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616-690­ 8609. HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1674 S. State Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 Phone 269-945­ 2285. Sunday morning service time: 10 a.m. with nursery and preschool available. FREEPORT BAPTIST CHURCH 380 County Line Rd., Freeport, MI 49325. (269) 760-1928. Pastor Ron. A traditional style of worship, no gimmicks, and friendly people welcome you to worship at "an old country church." Sunday School 9: 45 a.m. Sunday Worship 11 a.m. Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study and Prayer 7p.m. Give us the pleasure of meeting you! LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852­ 1783. Sunday service 10am. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. HASTINGS HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 2920 S. M-37 Hwy. (M-37 at M-79) Pastor Kim Metzer. Phone 269-945-4995. hastingshopeumc.org hastingshopeumc@gmail. com. We welcome YOU to join us on Sunday Mornings at 10:30 for worship! Find Us On Facebook! @ , hastingshopeumc. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. MCCALLUM UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH 5505 Otis Lake Rd., Delton, MI 49046. Phone: 269-623­ 8226. New pastor - Jerald Jones. Sunday Service: 10: 31-11:46; Coffee Connection. Nursery, Children's ministry. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIA INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-795­ 2370 and the rectory number is 269-948-9327. Our church website is www.samchurch. org. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 765, (corner of Milo Rd. &S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11:30am, Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 to 7:30 pm. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spiriufilled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616-731-5194. GREEN STREET UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green St, Hastings, MI 49058. Rev. Bryce Feighner Office Phone: 269­ 945.9574. Email: office. greenstreetumc@ gmail.com. Sunday, Schedule - The Praise 9:30 a.m. ; The Word 10 a.m.; The Table 10:30 a.m. Nursery Care is available through age 4; PreK-8th grade Sunday School 10 a.m.; Sunday School for Adults at 11 a.m. Upright Revolt Youth Ministry (6th-12th grades) 5:30-7:30 p.m. FREE Community Meal every Tuesday at 5 p.m. Refer to Facebook for weather conditions. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, , Family Night 6:30-8 p.m., AWANA (Children Kindergarten-5th Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948­ 8004 for information on MITT (Mothers in Training Together), Sports Ministries, Quilting, Ladies Bible Study. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel­ chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF HASTINGS Sharing Jesus with our community & the world! 405 N. M-37 Hwy., Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. www.firstchurchhastings. org, 9 a.m. Classes and Gatherings for All ages; 9:45 a.m. Worship (Children's Worship Offered); 10:45 a.m. Coffee Fellowship; 11:15 a.m. Coffee Talk with Pastor Dan. Follow us on Facebook. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Kathy Smith. Sunday Worship 9:15 am HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH ” An Expression Of Who jesus Is To The World Around Us”. 2635 N. M-43 Hwy, P.O. Box 8, Hastings. Telephone 269­ 945-9121. Email hastfmc@ gm.ail.com. Website: wwwJiasE ingsfreemetho,disLcom. Pastor Brian Teed, Student Ministries Directpr, Emma Miller, Wor­ ship Director, Martha Stoetze!. Sundays: Nursery and tod­ dler (birth through age 3) care provided. SUNDAY MORN­ ING FAMILY HOUR WEL­ COMES ALL AGES AND STAGES OF LIFE AT 9:30 a.m. Deep Blue, Loving God, Loving Neighbor: Preschool age 3-5th Grade. Live: 6th-12th Grade. Adult Standard and Adult Elective classes. Coffee Talk: Fellowship Hall. Cookies at 10:05 a.m. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. & Children’s Church age 44th grade dis­ missed during service. Youth Group at 6 p.m. 2nd Tuesday: Young Women's Small Group, 6 p.m. Wednesday: Women's Bible Study 6:30-7:30 p.m. KID'S CLUB: Feb. 5th-March 18th, 6:30-7:45 p.m. Thurs­ day: Adult Bible Study 10 a.m. For more information please contact the church or follow us on face book. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m. Unis Products' Hastings 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-9554 945-4700 MIDDLEVILLE, MI - Maxine Alice Robertson, age 100 of Middleville, passed away at her home on Thursday, Feb. 13, 2020. Maxine was bom on April 28, 1919 in Parmalee, to Malcom and Mildred (Gibbs) Maclver. She graduated from Thomapple W. K. Kellogg High School and Michigan State where she received her bachelor’s degree. On December 20, 1941, Maxine married the love of her life, John Robertson, who preceded her in death in 2014. Maxine was an avid reader, excellent seamstress, wonderful cook and liked to paint. She enjoyed travelling, taking trips in the RV, and going boating. She loved animals, especially horses and cats. Maxine will be dearly missed by her children, Charles (Robin) Robertson, Marc (Brenda) Robertson, Jane (Howard Hartley) Robertson, Jay (Rene) Robertson; 12 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; sister, Janet Schondelmayer; many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, John Robertson; sister and brothers-in-law, Laural and Fred Rock, John Schondelmayer. A funeral service was held Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2020 at Beeler-Gores Funeral Home in Middleville with Blessed Madugba and Terry Russell officiating. Burial took place at Mt. Hope Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Spectrum Health Hospice or the Thomapple Area Enrichment Foundation - John and Maxine Robertson Scholarship Fund will be appreciated. The family would like to say a special thank you to all of Maxine’s in-home caregivers over the years as well as Spectrum Health Hospice staff and volunteers for the wonderful care they provided. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Maxine’s family. MLWfflW 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 HASTINGS, MI - Christine May Bowman, age 90, of Hastings, passed away on February 15, 2020. Christine was bom on November 15, 1929, the daughter of Lewis and Zillah Dahms. Christine was a farmer’s wife and assisted with milking cows and bailing hay. She enjoyed decorating cakes for birthdays and weddings, making pies, and floriculture. Christine was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, George Bowman. She is survived by her daughter, Julie M. Ingram, her son, Douglas G. Bowman, and grandson, Corey Bowman. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Barry County Humane Society, https:// barrycountyhumane.org, 231 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 Visitation was held Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2020 with a service that followed at Girrbach Funeral Home, 328 S Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, to leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachftmeralhome.net. William Howard Warner Irene Isabelle Salik GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God's Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Feb. 9 - Worship services at 8 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Nursery available both services. Feb. 10 - Outreach Mtg. 4:30 p.m. Feb. 11 - Brothers of Grace 7 p.m. Pastor Ken Scheck II. pastorken@grace-hastings. org. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269-945-2698. www.grace-hastings.org. Facebook: Grace Lutheran Church-ELCA Hastings, MI. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Judy Lee Seeber HASTINGS, Ml - Irene Isabelle Salik, age 89, of Hastings, passed away on February 14, 2020. Irene was bom one of 16 children on June 19, 1930, the daughter of Benjamin and Bertha (Kondratewic) Salik. She graduated from Delton High School in 1950. Irene worked for Hastings Manufacturing, where she retired after more than 30 years. Irene was a member of St. Rose of Lima Church and enjoyed bowling. Irene was preceded in death by her parents, Benjeman and Bertha Salik, and many brothers and sisters. Irene is survived by her brother, Tom (Donna) Salik of Charlotte, and several nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Rose of Lima School, https:// stroseschoolhastings.com/payments-anddonations, 707 South Jefferson Street, Hastings, MI 49058 Visitation will be Thursday, Feb. 20, 2020, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Girrbach Funeral Home, 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, Feb. 21, 2020, at 11 a.m. at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 805 S. Jefferson Avenue, Hastings, MI, 49058, Fr. Stephan Philip officiating. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, to leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome .net. MIDDLEVILLE, Ml - William Howard “Bill” Warner passed away on February 12, 2020. Bill was bom August 28, 1917 in Fordsville, KY; the son of William and Lora (Howard) Warner. A veteran, Bill proudly served his country in World War II as a Staff Supply Sergeant in the United States Army, serving under General George S. Patton. Bill worked as a maintenance supervisor at Gulf and Western Industries for 30 years. He loved working on cars and owned his own auto garage in Middleville for many years. Bill built a cabin in Baldwin and lived there for a full year. He was a Boy Scout leader, and an avid golfer up until 100 years old. On June 10, 1942, Bill married the love of his life: Orretta McNutt and she preceded him in death in 2017. Bill is survived by children, Deloris “Dee” (Jerry) Bradley, Gary Warner, Tom (Jan) Warner, and Carol Robinson; 15 grandchildren; 36 great grandchildren; 13 great great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Bill was also preceded in death by his parents, a daughter: Barbara Greenfield in 2001, sisters: Hazel, Cora (Jimmie), Stella and Ruth. Bill’s family received friends Monday, Feb. 17, 2020, at Middleville United Methodist Church, Middleville, where his funeral service was conducted, Pastor Tony Shumaker officiating. Military honors were conducted by the American Legion Post 45. Burial will take place in Rutland Cemetery. For a more lasting memorial, contributions to Middleville United Methodist Church or Thomapple Manor will be appreciated. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Bill’s family. MIDDLEVILLE, MI - Judy Lee Seeber, age 79, of Middleville, passed away at her home on February 18, 2020. She grew up in Hart, with her parents Clarence and Edith Hartman along with four siblings. She often shared fun and loving memories of growing up on a large fruit orchard, and attended a one room schoolhouse. When she was in junior high, the family moved to the Cook Road farm in Hastings. After high school, she left for the big city of Grand Rapids and attended Davenport College. She married James Brown and had three children, Jeb, Ross and Rebecca. She drove school bus for Hastings Schools, became a paralegal, and later purchased and operated the Little Brown Jug Saloon. In 1988, she married John Seeber and continued to drive school bus until retirement. John and Judy started their lives together remodeling the Algonquin Farm on the corner of Woodschool and West State Road. This was a huge undertaking that took years, starting with the inside and finally finishing the outside. It was truly a labor of love. Judy entered every house siding contest in the entire country, hoping to win the final transformation! They created a lovely home and continued to raise Hereford and Angus cows. They also milked Holsteins up until 2018. She loved living and working on the farm, and mowing acres of lawn each summer. Judy was also a breast cancer survivor. She was adamant that she spend her final days of life at home, in her own bed. She got her wish. She will be sadly missed by her husband and family consisting of one brother, Carl Hartman; her three children; 11 grandchildren, and nine young great­ grandchildren. At her request, no funeral service will be held. Friends are encouraged to send condolences and share stories of her life to The Algonquin Farm - 2200 Woodschool Rd., Middleville, MI 49333. Memorial contributions can be sent to St. Judes Hospital for Children. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. To leave a memory or message for the family, visit the website at www. girrbachfuneralhome .net. Barry Township asking for police, fire, operating millages Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Two more questions will be added to ballots for residents of Barry Township. In May, the township is set to ask residents to renew operating millages for its police and fire departments. Delton Kellogg School also will have a non-homestead operating millage on the ballot. The township is again set to ask for up to 2 mills. The same millage was requested and approved four years ago. The reason the township is asking for “up to” 2 mills is so if either the police or fire department does not need the full amount in the coming year, the township would not have to collect the full amount and would save taxpayers money. For example, in 2019 the police department didn’t need the full 2 mills, so the township only levied 1.5. For a home valued at $80,000, the cost to the taxpayer would be $74.24 for the full 2 mills on the fire bill and $66.50 for the 1.5 mills for the police. Assuming the requests pass in May, they would not be on ballots again until 2024. “This vote is the difference between Barry Township having a fire department and not having one,” Clerk Debra Knight said. “The police [department] might be able to sustain itself for a bit, but we just wouldn’t have the operating cost to keep the fire departments going.” Even with the high stakes, Knight isn’t concerned about the millages’ passing. The Barry Township board of trustees approved the ballot addition during last week’s Tuesday Barry Township meeting. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 20, 2020 — Page 7 Spectrum Health Pennock acquires new lifesaving equipment The addition of a new state-of-the-art portable ultrasound machine allows more timely diagnosis and treatment for patients at Spectrum Health Pennock. And its use may help save lives by rapidly diagnosing and treating emergent conditions. The unit, a Zonare Z. One Pro, offers high-resolution imaging at a patient’s bedside, leading to quicker and more effective treatment. The $69,000 purchase was funded through philanthropy from donors to Spectrum Health Foundation at Pennock in support of the hospital’s critical care delivery initiative. The new machine is used in the intensive care unit and in the inpatient, medical-surgical department, and is in addition to a sister unit previously placed in the emergency department. “It’s really helped us out remarkably,” said Dr. Fergus Peacock, who is training the hospitalist team in the new technology and whose comments are echoed by Dr. Matthew Flannigan of the emergency department. Both Dr. Peacock and Dr. Flannigan have been strong advocates of the program. Peacock said the unit allows for vascular, abdominal and cardiac probes, and its enhanced software gives precise and comprehensive measurements to aid in diagnoses and treatment. “It’s expanded our capabilities significantly,” Peacock said. The machine also helps with the most accurate placement of a peripherally inserted central catheter line and has a user-friendly interface, Peacock said. As mentioned, this is the second unit of its type at the hospital. A similar unit is used in the emergency department and Peacock said he believes its use there recently helped save the life of a patient by allowing staff to quickly diagnose and treat the issue. “This additional ultrasound machine clearly supports our mission of improving health, inspiring hope and saving lives,” foundation director Janine Dalman said. “We thank our donors who allow us to support the hospital in this manner.” A new ultrasound machine allows for quicker diagnosis and treatment at Spectrum Health Pennock in Hastings. A second machine has been in use for several weeks in the emergency department. (Photo provided) Phone scammers posing as health officials Yankee Springs delays Telephone scammers are posing as human services officials and attempting to steal personal information from unsuspecting Michigan residents, warned Attorney General Dana Nessel, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Director Robert Gordon and the Michigan State Police. Officials have received multiple com­ plaints from residents who have been con­ tacted by scammers pretending to be MDHHS employees in Kalamazoo County who then ask for personal information that could be used to steal identities. The scam­ mers often use a practice known as spoofing, which allows phone calls to appear as if they are coming from real department phone numbers. Anyone who receives one of those calls should hang up the phone. No one should give out personal information to an unsolic­ ited caller. “If you are ever asked by an unsolicited caller to give out personal information, don’t do it,” Nessel said. “Hang up the phone immediately and report anything that you suspect might be a scam to our office.” In the past several months, multiple local health departments also have received reports of scammers posing as public health officials from residents in Bay, Jackson, Livingston, Monroe and Washtenaw coun­ ties. “MDHHS does not call clients and ask for detailed personal information over the phone,” MDHHS Director Robert Gordon said. “At most, a department caseworker would ask for a date of birth or the last four digits of your Social Security number. If you have any doubts, ask to call the worker back and use the local office switchboard to con­ nect.” The Michigan State Police offers tips for individuals to avoid becoming scam victims: -Never give personal information to an unknown caller. -Do not respond to unsolicited emails from an unknown sender. -Confirm the identity of a contact by inde­ pendently speaking with the identified source (the individual’s bank, credit card company, government agency, etc.). -Use a reliable source to confirm the con­ tact’s phone number or email. -Report any suspicious contacts to police. Those who wish to make a report about scam calls may do so by calling the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division. A complaint many be filed online or by calling 877-765-8388. ‘Faces of Conservation’ returns Feb. 21 The Barry Conservation District will host the third annual “Faces of Conservation” Friday, Feb. 21, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Walldorff Ballroom in Hastings. This social event is aimed at building con­ nections among conservation groups and local folks, said Sarah Nelson, executive director of the Barry Conservation District. Conservation is and always has been a field of many facets, or “faces.” Sometimes that diversity can divide, and sometimes it can strengthen, she said. A great historical example of the latter is illustrated in the history of Yosemite National Park. President Theodore Roosevelt wrote to John Muir March 14,1903, petitioning him to guide Roosevelt on a camping trip through what is now Yosemite National Park. He had read some of Muir’s powerful criticisms on the mismanagement of the area, and rather than debate with Muir, he decided to open his mind and take the time to learn. “I want to drop politics absolutely for four days and just be out in the open with you,” Roosevelt wrote. And so it began: That infamous camping trip led to increased protections for Yosemite and the tenets that would become the founda­ tion for the National Parks Service. Roosevelt and Muir likely wouldn’t have been easy friends - they were very different people. A Columbia Law graduate and a University of Wisconsin dropout; a politician and an activist; a war hero described as the “epitome of robust masculinity” and a “proph­ et naturalist” (as described by Emerson); a hunter and a spiritual wanderer. Yet, they were brought together by a desire to enjoy the land and its riches today and well into the future, Nelson said. And the fruits of that col­ laboration have been enjoyed by generations since. Looking back at the early years of conser­ vation in the country “odd couples” like Roosevelt and Muir are seen harmonizing on monumental achievements that form the base of the North American Conservation Model and conservation legislation as we know it today. Sometimes those odd couples were individuals and sometimes they were entire organizations that seemed mismatched in their philosophies but were able to meet over common ground. Stories of those early days remind us of the power of working together, Nelson said. This sometimes happens even within the conservation community when individual views of what conservation looks like blocks the chance to bond over common ground. “And by missing that chance, we lose the potential to affect greater positive change together,” Nelson said. It was with this in mind that the conserva­ tion district began to organize the Faces of Conservation event two years ago. “We work with so many amazing organiza­ tions in the area and we love to hear about their great work,” she said. “Whether it is in ecosystem restoration, education, water qual­ ity, wildlife habitat, research, nature-based recreation, etc., we are all contributing to passing our natural treasures on to future gen­ erations and that is a wonderful thing.” In addition, Barry County’s natural beauty and bounty of resources has drawn in a large contingent of conservation-minded folks. Many of these supporters may know a handful of the groups around, but probably not nearly all of them. “How great would it be to have all of these conservation professionals and organizations in the same room at the same time, mingling with these dedicated conservation support­ ers?” she proposed. “What if, like Roosevelt and Muir, we could set aside our differences and unite over our common ground? That’s exactly what Faces of Conservation is - a chance to meet and socialize with representa- tives from over 30 different conservation organizations, all in a casual and fun environ­ ment. “We aim to find common ground among these various faces (both the people and the different facets of 6Tir wt5rk) of conservation, rather than focusing on the minor differences that can divide us. We believe that through this process we will foster even greater com­ munity and organizational collaboration.” Admission to Faces of Conservation is $15 per person and includes appetizers. A cash bar will be available. Anyone interested in attend­ ing may purchase tickets at squareup.com/ store/facesofconservation or call the district office, 269-908-4135. Hastings students going from learners to legislators Students from Hastings High School will take their learning to the Legislature when they travel to the State Capitol for the YMCA Michigan Youth in Government conference Feb. 20-23. The Saxons will join more than 600 stu­ dents from across the state and serve as legis­ lators, lobbyists, lawyers, governor’s cabinet members, legislative oversight panelists and press reporters during the conference. Working together with peers, they will debate current issues, propose new legislation, share ideas and grow as leaders. The Michigan Youth in Government is a year-long program available to middle and high school students who have an interest in government, legislation and leadership oppor­ tunities. “MYIG connects students across the state,” Executive Director Lydia Mitchell said in a press release, “and allows them to step out of typical high school student life and into the role of lawmakers.” Leading up to the conference, students study the legislative process and a variety of public policy issues. MYIG students have created legislation adopted statewide, includ­ ing the anti-bullying law signed by Gov. Rick Snyder in 2011 and vertical IDs for those under 21. The program offers one-of-a-kind experi­ ence for students are interested in govern­ ment. The program began in 1948 and serves more than 2,000 students annually. MYIG has propelled some of the program’s alumni pur­ sue careers in state government, foreign ser­ vice, teaching and the United Nations. Alumni board seeking class reps, award nominations The Hastings High School Alumni Association Board has begun planning for the 2020 banquet Friday, Aug. 28, at the First Presbyterian Church of Hastings. The board is looking for class representa­ tives to help with the planning. Representatives are needed for the honored classes of 1945, 1950, 1955, 1960, 1965, 1975, 1980, 1985, 1990 and 2000. Representatives have already been identified for 1970 and 1995. Anyone wishing to help with their individual class gatherings may contact alumni board presi­ dent Lois Bowers. The board also is accepting nominations for the 2020 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year. The cutoff date is July 15 for individuals to be considered. The award will be presented at the Aug. 28 banquet. Any classmate, friend, fam­ ily member and/or member of the community may make a nomination for the award. Nominations must be typed and must con­ tain biographical information and reasons why the individual is being nominated. Reasons can include accomplishments, voca­ tion honors and awards received, community service, organization memberships and other helpful information. The nominee can be residing anywhere, not necessarily in Hastings, but must be alums of Hastings High School. The alumni board would like to continue to consider previously submitted nominations as well as new nominations. The board encour­ ages anyone who has submitted a nomination in the past to resubmit one again with up-todate information for the board’s consider­ ation. Nomination letters may be sent to Lois Bowers, 102 E. Clinton St., Hastings, MI 49058, by the July 15 deadline. Questions also can be directed to Bowers by calling 269­ 945-9657. All nominations received by that date will be considered for the Alumnus of the Year Award. pickleball expansion plans Greg Chandler Staff Writer Efforts are continuing in Yankee Springs Township to add more pickleball courts to the township park. However, some have raised questions about the process of getting the project approved, including some related to legal issues dating back to the park’s origins. The township board met with backers of the project for about 90 minutes Monday night to discuss a proposal to add four new courts to the east of the two existing pickleball courts. “I’m convinced this four-court expansion is an important thing to do for the community. It supports your five-year plan for the park,” said Ken Pechumer of the Promote Pickleball Team, a group that has campaigned for nearly a year for additional courts in response to the rising popularity of the sport among local residents, particularly those 50 years of age and older. About 20 residents who support the pickleball project attended the special meeting, including Deb Donker, who took up the sport in 2012. She plays three to four times a week and said it helped her lose weight and become more physically fit. “I got my health back. It’s a great health benefit to older people like me,” Donker said. The board in November 2019 voted 4-0 to support construction of the courts, provided PPT raises the necessary funds for construction. The project has an estimated cost of $100,000, and Pechumer said the group already has received quotes from licensed contractors who are interested in the project. The pickleball group has formed a nonprofit corporation with the Barry Community Foundation and plans to pay for the project through donations and sponsorships, so that taxpayers in Yankee Springs would not have to pay for the new courts. The project has already received funding support from more than 50 donors, Pechumer said. However, at least one board member wants specifics about the project in writing before giving the consent for PPT to move ahead with construction. “Nobody’s against it. We just want to make sure it’s done the way it’s supposed to be done,” township treasurer Alice Jansma said. At issue for Jansma is a legal opinion that was emailed to the board Feb. 4 by township attorney Catherine Kaufman which is tied to a 1998 court settlement that led to the park’s development. In that case, Drake Land Development agreed to donate to the township nine acres of land on which the park now sits. Stipulations from the settlement included that the park “shall be improved as rapidly as the park fund raised by the township board permits” and that Drake could reclaim and repossess the property “upon the failure of Yankee Springs Township to exercise reasonable supervision” over the park. The conditions do not address any private funding efforts for park improvements. “Before the township board goes any further with the pickleball group regarding use of the township park for organized pickleball activities [including possible expansion of pickleball courts, etc.], the board should obtain a written presentation specifying what and how the group proposes to conduct its activities,” Kaufman wrote in the memo to the board, which was initially tagged as “confidential.” The board at its Feb. 13 meeting approved a motion to make the memo public. Township Supervisor Mark Englerth said Brian Drake, the developer who donated the land, now lives out of state and that efforts will be made to contact him to let him know about the pickleball proposal. “I’ve talked to some people that know him. I’m comfortable that he is not against having pickleball courts [at the park],” Englerth said. Other issues that need to be addressed include a request by PPT to relocate a pole Ken Pechumer of the Promote Pickleball Team addresses the audience on plans to add four new pickleball courts to Yankee Springs Township Park at Monday’s special board meeting. that anchors the basketball goal, saying say it’s a safety issue, as well as supplying drawings of the proposed new courts to the township’s insurance provider to make sure potential liability issues are addressed, Englerth said. Township resident Mike Cunningham said he understood the desire of PPT to move ahead with the project, but expressed wanting to see more specifics, such as drawings of what the courts might look like. “There’s T’s to be crossed and I’s to be dotted, so we don’t wind up in an argument a few years from now over who said what. It should be in writing,” Cunningham said. “Let’s take the time to do things right and not push forward at a pace where we get it wrong.” Pechumer said that with construction season upcoming, any delays in getting the go-ahead for the project could result in a delay into next year for construction of the courts. “If I wait another 30 days, these people are all going to be busy for the entire season,” he said. “I don’t want to waste a season. If that’s pushing it too fast, I’m sorry.” Englerth spoke out about the willingness of PPT to finance construction of the pickleball courts, and the use of the park for that sport as opposed to other available uses of the park. “This group is committing $100,000 to this community, where everybody can play,” Englerth said. “Better than half of the park is not utilized. The softball field is not utilized and the soccer field is not.” The board will resume discussions on the pickleball court project Friday, Feb. 28, at 9 a.m. at the township hall, 284 N. Briggs Road. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads �Page 8 — Thursday, February 20, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Local Scouting programs to continue despite bankruptcy filing Greg Chandler Staff Writer Local officials with the Boy Scouts of America say that the national organization’s recent filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy will not impact local Scouting programs in Barry County. The BSA national council announced on Tuesday that it had filed for bankruptcy pro­ tection in the wake of an expected wave of lawsuits filed against the organization by survivors of sexual abuse by volunteer Scout leaders. The Michigan Crossroads Council, which represents Scouting organizations in Michigan, released a statement Tuesday, say­ ing that the council is financially independent from the national organization and that Scouting programs will continue on as usual. “The Michigan Crossroads Council has not filed for bankruptcy,” said Donald Shepard, scout executive and chief executive officer of the Crossroads Council, in the statement. “Meetings and activities, district and council events, other Scouting adventures and count­ less service projects are taking place as usual. In short, there should be no change.” There are 13 Scouting units in Barry County, with more than 110 young people participating, said Aaron Gach, chief execu­ tive officer for the BSA’s President Ford field service council office in Grand Rapids, which covers Scouting programs in western and northern lower Michigan. Overall, the Ford council office serves more than 10,000 Scouts throughout its 30-county coverage area, Gach said. The Crossroads Council statement also asserts that Scouting programs are safer than ever. “Over many years, we’ve developed some of the strongest expert-informed youth protec­ tion policies found in any youth-serving orga­ nization,” Shepard said. “I can also assure you that our volunteers and employees take youth protection extremely seriously and do their part to help keep kids safe.” The BSA issued an apology on Feb. 11, to survivors of abuse and announced plans for expanded services to support them. The Boy Scouts are teaming up in a fiveyear partnership with lin6, a national non­ profit that provides various resources and support services to male survivors of sexual abuse. The organization’s name derives from studies concluding that about one in six men in the U.S. experienced sexual abuse. The BSA said the partnership will enable Elaine Garlock The local chapter of Michigan Association of Retired School Personnel will meet this afternoon at the Ionia Heartlands Center on Tuttle Road. An afternoon treat is easily available across the road at MooVille’s Udder Place. The museum on Emerson Street in Lake Odessa will be open both Saturday and Sunday with hours, also for the county genealogy society 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday. The museum next week will be the site of an unusual sale from the estate of one of its loyal members with the accumulation from three generations of savers. Last week’s meeting of the local historical society had an unusual amount of souvenirs from the Reed family, a gift from the children of the late Robert Reed, youngest son of the Walter and Uarda Reed. The Reed family was known locally as chief partners/ owners/managers of the Lake Odessa Canning Company. They also were known as community benefactors, breeders of champion Hereford cattle, participants in the national stock show/sale in Denver, CO each year in March and participants in many village events. Mrs. Reed was known for her love of books and reading and for her kitchen prowess. She had a remarkable collection of cook books. She said she had to cook a lot because her sons played sports, so she had to provide substantial meals at noon to fuel them for their afternoon practices and after-school games. There were remarkable photographs and pictures. Chief among them was a commissioned painting of Walter Reed Sr. with a background of his farm buildings on the ranch outside town where they spent summers. The Ionia County Commission on Aging has sponsored a Tai Chi Class at the Lake Odessa Library each Tuesday morning. Is true winter still lurking about waiting to pounce on us in March or April? We have had many days above freezing when we should be in the depths of winter. Is this yet more evidence of global warming? We have had less trouble this year with accumulations of frozen stuff under the fenders of our cars. While sorting and sifting through old payers, this writer found a Banner column for this week following the events of 9/11 in New York City with the destruction of the World Trade Center. There was an immediate rush at the gas stations to fill one’s tank. The price had been $171.9 and in hours it rose to more than $1.87. Michigan Attorney General Jennifer Granholm threatened that any station raising its price to 43 or more would be subject to a fine of $25,000! Little did we think we would ever have prices that high when there was no national emergency. TOWNSHIP OF BALTIMORE 2020 NOTICE OF BOARD OF REVIEW PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Review will meet at the Township Hall, 3100 E. Dowling Rd. Hastings, Ml 49058, to examine and review the 2020 Assessment roll. The board will convene on the following dates for the hearing of appeals of assessments or taxable values, poverty exemptions, parcel classification appeals and/or current year qualified agricultural denials: Tuesday, March 3, 2020, 1:00 pm Organizational Meeting Hearings will be the week of March 8, 2020 Monday, March 09, 2020, 9:00 am to 12 noon and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm Wednesday, March 11, 2020, 1 pm to 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm And on such additional days as required to hear all persons who have given notice of the desire to be heard until assessment rolls have been revised, corrected and approved. Letter appeals will be accepted and must be received no later than 9:00 pm March 11th, 2020. Tentative ratios and estimated multipliers for 2020 are as follows: Agricultural 43.37% 1.15287 Commercial 46.04% 1.08601 Industrial 46.94% 1.06518 Residential 44.98% 1.11160 Personal Property 50.00% 1.00000 Tentative equalization factor of 1.0000 for all classes is expected after completion of Board of Review. Chad VanSyckle, Supervisor Baltimore Township Scott Anderson, Assessor Baltimore Township Baltimore Township Board Meetings are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, sex or disability. American with Disabilities (ADA) Notice The township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon seven (7) days notice to Baltimore Township. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact Baltimore Township by writing or calling. Baltimore Township Clerk Penelope Ypma 3100 E Dowling Rd Hastings, MI 49058 269.721.3502 137342 lin6 to expand its 24/7 web-based helpline chat service, which helps survivors connect quickly to a trained advocate for abuse vic­ tims. Matthew Ennis, CEO of lin6, said the BSA was making a financial contribution to the partnership, but neither he nor the Boy Scouts would specify the amount. It’s unclear how much cash the BSA has on hand to enter into significant ventures at a time when its finances are in turmoil. The Boy Scouts recently mortgaged its national properties, including the vast Philmont Ranch in New Mexico, to help secure a line of credit, with the properties being used as collateral amid a crush of sex­ abuse lawsuits. The organization’s finances have been strained by sex abuse settlements for several years, and the situation worsened after New York, Arizona, New Jersey, and California enacted bills last year making it easier for victims of long-ago abuse to file claims. Teams of lawyers across the U.S. have been signing up clients by the hundreds to join lawsuits against the BSA. One of those lawyers, Seattle-based Mike Pfau, questioned whether the lin6 partnership announcement was a “publicity attempt” linked to the bankruptcy declaration. “Sadly, this is extraordinarily late in the game, particularly given the Boy Scouts knew that perpetrators had been infiltrating their ranks for 100 years,” said Pfau, referring to files of suspected molesters that the BSA began compiling in the 1920s. The BSA said the partnership will allow lin6 to expand the number of online support groups for men who were sexually abused from two to five each week. The organization said the new arrangement was expected to continue regardless of how it deals with its current financial crisis. “We sincerely apologize to anyone who was harmed in Scouting,” said Roger Mosby,, the BSA’s president and CEO. “In addition to implementing strong policies to prevent abuse, we are dedicated to supporting victims when and how they need it.” Ennis said the BSA’s financial difficulties were discussed during negotiations on the partnership. “We believe they will be able to deliver on that over a 5-year period,” he said. One of Pfau’s clients, Virginia resident Ralph Morse, described the new partnership as “a step in the right direction.” “But it certainly doesn’t compensate for anything that’s happened to survivors,” he said. Morse is suing the BSA for alleged abuse by a scoutmaster in the 1960s in upstate New York. For years, the Boy Scouts have offered to fund in-person counseling for any current or former scout. Michael Johnson, the Boy Scouts youth protection officer, said he became convinced that lin6 could offer a broader range of survivor support after hear­ ing about it from an abuse victim, Jason Lee. Lee, a 45-year-old software consultant in Atlanta, was abused by an assistant scoutmas­ ter while in the Boy Scouts in Alabama. The molester, Charles Corley, was sentenced to 30 years in prison in 1995. The BSA has set up a website that further addresses the bankruptcy and efforts to com­ pensate abuse victims at www.bsarestructuring.org. To learn more about local Scouting programs and their response to the bankrupt­ cy, visiting www.michiganscouting.org. The Associated Press contributed to this story. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Friday, Feb. 21 - preschool story time, 10:30-11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 22 - Anime Club, noon-2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24 - Quilting Passions, 10 a.m.-l p.m.; Blue Zones volunteer training, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25 - Toddler Time, 10:30-11 a.m.; Great Decisions: Televised - Security in the Red Sea, noon-1 p.m.; Great Decisions: Foreign Affairs discussions, human traffick­ ing, 1:30-3:30; mahjong club, 5:30; chess club, 5:30; euchre, 5:30; genealogy club, 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26 - Great Books Club, 6-7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27 - Baby Cafe,10 a.m.noon; Movie Memories and Milestones watches 1949 film starring Jeannette MacDonald, Lloyd Nolan, Claude Jarman Jr. and Pal, aka Lassie, 5 p.m. More information about these and other events is available by calling the library, 269­ 945-4263. Calling all bears Dr. Uninverse: Why are bears called bears when they can be called anything else, not just a bear? Natallia, 8, Yakima, Wash. Dear Natallia, You’ve noticed something very important: there’s no natural reason for the words humans use. Any sound could be used to describe a big mammal that eats berries and salmon. But people who speak English choose “bear.” People who speak Spanish use oso. People who speak Maricopa say maxwet. They’re all different, but they’re all correct. That’s what I learned from my friend Lynn Gordon, a linguist at Washington State University. “Why do we call bears ‘bears’?” she said. “Because we’ve agreed to.” Humans have a unique knack for speech. They talk about things in the past or future. They make up new words. They even say things they’ve never said before (like you did with your excellent question). To be understood, speakers of a language agree about its rules. This happens very early, when a baby is first learning to talk. When you were little, you learned by listen­ ing to others. You agreed to your language’s rules without even thinking about it. “Most of what we know about culture people didn’t teach us,” Gordon said. “They acted it out in front of us and we absorb it by being human. We’re driven to absorb the culture and language around us. Our brains are built that way.” That’s how English speakers have passed down the word “bear” for generations. We don’t know exactly how or when the first word for bears was created. But linguists can hunt for a word’s history by looking at its relatives. English, German and Dutch are like cous­ ins. English speakers say bear, Dutch speak­ ers say beer, and Germans say bar. These languages sound similar because they share an ancestor - Proto-Germanic, an old lan­ guage that isn’t spoken anymore. Before “bear,” Old English speakers used bera. This word may come from the Proto­ Germanic *berd, meaning “the brown one.” Others think *berd might be related to the Latin ferns, making it mean “the wild one.” We don’t have any written examples, so lin­ guists use an asterisk* to show it’s their best guess. Others look farther back at Proto-IndoEuropean, Proto-Germanic’s ancestor. This language had a different word for bears: *rtko. That’s where the Ancient Greek arktos and Latin ursus come from. But how could *rtko become ^bero? It is possible people didn’t want to say a bear’s name out loud, so they said “the brown one” or “the wild one.” People might have been afraid of warning bears they hunted, or call­ ing bears to attack them. That part of the history involves a lot of guessing. But it’s clear *bero became bera, and bera became bear. All of this shows languages change over time. It’s normal for words to shift in sound and meaning. It’s even normal to create new words. Humans move around, meet new humans, and borrow words as they go. They agree to the rules, but the rules can change. So, whether you use the word cat in English, gato in Italian, or kedi in Turkish, it’s still the same animal. Dr. Universe Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University’s resident scientist and writer at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu or visit her web­ site, askdruniverse.com. Provided by the Barry County offices ofEdward Jones Brandon Wilkins Member SIPC 307 E. Green St, Ste. 1 Hastings, Ml 49058 450 Meadow Run Dr. Suite 100 (269) 948-2003 (269) 948-8265 Hastings, Mi 49058 Can you improve your relationship with money? In your life, you will have all sorts of relationships - with your family, your friends, your co-workers, and even with civic groups and charitable organizations you support. But have you ever considered another key relationship - the one you have with money? Of course, this type of relationship has several aspects, such as saving, spending and investing. And your fellow Americans clearly face some challenges in these areas. For example, in a recent survey by financial services firm Edward Jones, only 21% of respondents reported that they feel happy when thinking about saving money, while 92% said they see room for improvement in their financial health. Yet only one in four plan to improve their spending habits. Furthermore, just 26% said retirement was a top savings priority. If you share some of these concerns, what should you do? Here are a few suggestions: • Identify your moneyrelated emotions. Try to recognize the emotions you feel in connection with saving and investing. Do you get nervous about spending? Does putting away money for the future give you satisfaction or not? Do you worry that you don’t know how much you should be investing, or whether you’re investing in the right way? Clearly, these types of questions can cause some anxiety - and, even more importantly, they may lead you to make poor decisions. Emotions are obviously closely tied to money - but they really should not play a big role in your spending, saving and investing choices. • Develop a financial strategy. By developing a sound financial strategy, you can reduce money-related stress and help yourself feel empowered as you look to the future. A comprehensive strategy can help you identify your goals - a down payment on a new home, college for your children, a comfortable retirement, and so on - and identify a path toward reaching them. Your financial strategy should incorporate a variety of factors, including your age, risk tolerance, income level, family situation and more. Here’s the key point: By creating a long-term strategy and sticking to it, you’ll be far less likely to overreact to events such as market downturns and less inclined to give in to impulses such as “spur of the moment” costly purchases. And without such a strategy, you will almost certainly have less chance of achieving your important goals. • Get an “accountability partner. ” Your relationship with money doesn’t have to be monogamous - you can get help from an “accountability partner.” Too many people keep their financial concerns and plans to themselves, not even sharing them with their partners or other family members. But by being open about your finances to your loved ones, you can not only avoid misplaced expectations but also enlist the help of someone who may be able to help keep you on track toward your short- and long-term goals. But you may also benefit from the help of a financial professional - someone with the perspective, experience and skills necessary to help you make the right moves. Like all successful relationships, the one you have with money requires work. But you’ll find it’s worth the effort. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 20, 2020 — Page 9 fl look Back at the stories and columns on local history In the Hastings Banner TURNING BflGK THE PAGES , 1940 events had far-reaching impact Ed Erway is pictured here playing in front of the old Second Ward School on Bond Street in 1921. The photo was included in a 1990 review of 1940 news. The Feb. 8, 1940, Banner reported that Market Street between Green and State streets would be closed to vehicles weekday afternoons and all day each weekend to allow children a place to slide. Hastings historian Esther Walton (1933­ 2010) reviewed 1940 editions of the Banner as part of a retrospect of the news 50 years prior. The following compilation was published in the May 7,1990, Banner. In February 1940, news was scarce and routine, but some decisions and activities had far-reaching consequences. One major change proposed in the Feb. 1, 1940, Banner was the nomination and election of city officers by petition, and these offices would be nonpartisan. It was difficult to have a two-party system in a small town, especially since the community seemed to have a strong preference for one political party. The state highway department was installing railroad grades and flasher warning signals at crossings in Michigan. Among the crossings to get new flashers was M-43 at the Michigan Central-Broadway intersection. State Supreme Court Justice W.W. Potter, a former Hastings resident, had just completed a book covering the history of the courts of Michigan, the Feb. 8 Banner reported. He had previously produced a concise history of Barry County. Many readers of this column would recognize his name. In the same issue, local Boy Scouts were celebrating the 30^ anniversary of the Boy Scout organization. The scouts planned to have window displays and special parents/ scout dinners. Under the headline “City Regulates Play” the paper reported that the mayor said Market Street from Green to State streets would be closed after 4 p.m. on school days and during the entire day Saturdays and Sundays to permit children a place to slide, and it was the duty of parents to keep their children off other open streets where sliding was hazardous. [Relocation of M-37/M-43 in the 1970s, followed by development of strip malls and other businesses in the early 1990s changed the look and activity in that area.] It is hard to imagine today Market Street being closed to traffic for that period of time, but it is easy to see why it was a popular sliding hill. One thing in the papers of 1940 not found today was the announcement of the annual meetings of the creamery associations. Mentioned are the Freeport Creamery Feb. 1, with 300 at their annual meeting, and the Delton Creamery Co-op Feb. 8. It appears that many Barry County residents traveled to Florida or to warmer climates during the winter because the paper was full of news about local residents from these places. The first mention of the impending U.S. involvement in World War II was in the Feb. 15 edition in a talk given by George Dolliver, editor of the Battle Creek Moon-Journal. The article said, “His impressions were especially interesting because he was over there [in Europe] as a representative of a national press association and the Masonic Lodge, and so was able to make unusually fine contacts for ascertaining an accurate picture. He only beat the war home by about 10 days.” The United States at this point considered the war to be other countries’ business and had not yet entered it. The most historical article in the Feb. 22 RIGHT: This undated image of ladies posing in front of the Bonnet and Gown Shop was published as a “Do You Know?” photo in the May 9, 2013, Banner. Readers later identified four of the women, including (from left) Rosalie “Peg” (Bennet) Edger, unknown, Belle Doster, Liz (Doster) Nevins and Alice (Fingleton) Clark. The shop opened in early 1940. issue was the content of a speech made to the Rotary Club about the conditions of war in Europe. The article told of people in Germany not knowing what was going on in their own country, and the preparations being made by people in England and Holland to protect themselves. The Feb. 22 issue of the Banner also announced the opportunity “of seeing the popular and much publicized picture, ‘Gone with the Wind’ sometime in March. The same paper told of a fire doing more than $1,500 worth of damage to the R.E. Finnic residence at the corner of West Center and South Washington streets. The fire, of unknown origin, burned part of the interior and damaged the contents. The Feb. 29,1940, Banner carried the city council news. The council was considering the questions about limited parking on Main Street. According to the article, there were two ways to solve the problem: first, an agreement among all businessmen on State and Jefferson streets not to use this space or to permit their employees to use it for parking purposes. The consensus was that such an agreement could not be enforced. A second method would be to create various time zones for limiting parking. The objection to this was that it would be costly to enforce. Additional bus parking space was permitted at the Trio Cafe by reserving the west side of Michigan Street the full length for the use of buses. These were not local buses, but Greyhound buses with connections to Battle Creek, Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids and thus on to the rest of the state or nation. The qualifications for city officers were listed according to the then charter of the City of Hastings, which stated: “No person shall be elected or appointed to any office unless he be an elector of the city, and if elected or appointed for a ward, he must be an elector thereof; and no person shall be elected or appointed to any office in the city who has been or is a defaulter to the city or to any board of officers thereof or to any school district, county or other municipal corporation of the state ...” The legal wording was then reduced to common language: “Any elector of the city who is a qualified citizen of Hastings of voting age is eligible for office.” A new; store wds opined balled the Bonnet and Gown Shop afT041L State St. It devoted its merchandise to ladies’ ready-to-wear dresses, coats and millinery, purses, slips, hose, gloves and handkerchiefs. The owners were Mrs. Mary McCreery and Miss Mary Manee. Rotary honored its past 20 years’ presidents at a special noon luncheon. The following 12 were present: Aben Johnson, Mort Nichols, Will Stebbins, John Wooten, Dick Loppenthein, Charles Potts, Hubert Cook, Kim Sigler, Clyde Wilcbx, Carl Wespinter Sr. and Clarence Crawford. Three past presidents were in Florida: Will Shulters, joseph McKnight and Ab Carveth. Robert Walton was unable to attend. Three past presidents had died: Fred Hill, Harry Hayes and Jason McElwain. Two of the former presidents, Hill and Sigler, had served as district governors. Aben Johnson gave a brief review of the 20 years of club accomplishments. He said. “At first, the club took as its project crippled children’s work. It held the first cpunty-wife clinic available to Barry County children. The club also took an active part in getting a new depot for Hastings. It staged several minstrel shows for the benefit of Pennock Hospital and other worthy charities.” The club had grown steadily during the past 20 years and now has 63 members on its roster. Hastings Rotary at one time held the record for consecutive 100 percent meetings and had always ranked well up among the leaders for 17 of the 20 years. HASTINGS CHARTER TOWNSHIP 2020 NOTICE OF BOARD OF REVIEW PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Review will meet at the Township Hall, 885 River Rd., Hastings, Ml 49058 to examine and review the 2020 assessment roll. The board will convene on the following dates for the hearing of appeals of assessments or taxable values, poverty exemptions, parcel classification appeals and/or current year qualified agricultural denials: Organizational Meeting Only Tuesday, March 3, 2020, 1:00 pm Wednesday, March 11,2020, 9:00 am to Noon and 6:00 to 9:00 pm Thursday, March 12, 2020, 9:00 am to Noon and 1:00 to 4:00 pm And on such additional days as required to hear all persons who have given no­ tice of the desire to be heard until assessment rolls have been revised, corrected and approved. APPEALS ARE HEARD ON FIRST COME FIRST SERVE BASIS; letter appeals will be accepted and must be received no later than 5:00 pm March 6, 2020 Tentative ratios and estimated multipliers for 2019 are as follows: Agricultural 49.40% 1.0121 Commercial 48.51% 1.0307 Industrial 52.42% 0.9538 Residential 47.12% 1.0611 Personal Property 50.00% 1.0000 Tentative equalization factor of 1.0000 for all classes is expect­ ed after completion of Board of Review. • Jim Brown, Supervisor - Hastings Charter Township Kevin Harris, Assessor - Hastings Charter Township American with Disabilities (ADA) Notice The township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon seven-(7) days’ notice to Hastings Charter Township. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact Castleton Township by writing or calling. Hastings Charter Township Clerk 885 River Rd. Hastings, Ml 49058 269-948-9690 137214 ——wiw 2020 NOTICE OF BOARD OF REVIEW PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Review will meet at the Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Rd. Delton, Michigan 49046, to examine and review the 2020 assessment roll. The board will convene on the following dates for the hearing of appeals of assessments or taxable values, poverty exemptions, parcel classification appeals and/or current year qualified agricultural denials: Tuesday, March 3, 2020,10:00 am Organizational Meeting Wednesday, March 11,2020,1:00 to 4:00 pm and 6:00 to 9:00 pm Thursday, March 12, 2020, 9:00 am to noon and 1:00 to 4:00 pm And on such additional days as required to hear all persons who have given notice of the desire to be heard until assessment rolls have been revised, corrected and approved. APPOINTMENTS ARE SUGGESTED; letter appeals will be accepted and must be received no later than 5:00 pm March 6, 2020 Tentative ratios and estimated multipliers for 2020 are as follows: Adam Richard MacDonald, Middleville and Kelly Elisabeth Elcombe, Brooklin, ON Gary Louis Mathews, Muskegon and Vicky Louise Watson, Hastings Zachary Adam Gearns, Middleville and Emily Marie Bardwell, Middleville Duane Alan Ott, Hastings and Stacey Jean Cook, Hastings Agricultural 46.18% 1.0827 Commercial 47.99% 1.0419 Industrial 49.56% 1.0089 Residential 47.35% 1.0560 Personal Property 50.00% 1.0000 Tentative equalization factor of 1.0000 for all classes is expected after completion of Board of Review. Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor Prairieville Township Kevin Harris, Assessor Prairieville Township Prairieville Township Board Meetings are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, sex or disability. American with Disabilities (ADA) Notice Jeffrey A. Keessen, AIF® (269) 948-9969 525 W. Apple St. Hastings, MI 49058 www.watersedgefinancial.com Taking care of what's important to you so that you can focus on what matters most to you Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads The township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon seven (7) days’ notice to Prairieville Township. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact Prairieville Township by writing or calling. Rod Goebel Prairieville Township Clerk 10115 S. Norris Rd., Delton, Ml 49046 269-623-2726 137042 �Page 10 Thursday, February 20, 2020 — The Hastings Banner City of Hastings ORDINANCE NO. 583 TO AMEND APPENDIX B OF THE HASTINGS CODE OF 1970, BY ADDING, APPENDIX B-IV AN ORDINANCE TO PROVIDE FOR THE ACQUISITION AND CONSTRUCTION OF ADDITIONS, EXTENSIONS AND IMPROVEMENTS TO THE WATER SUPPLY AND SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEM OF THE CITY OF HAST­ INGS; TO PROVIDE FOR THE ISSUANCE AND SALE OF JUNIOR LIEN REVENUE BONDS TO PAY THE COST THEREOF; TO PRESCRIBE THE FORM OF THE BONDS; TO PROVIDE FOR THE COLLECTION OF REVENUES FROM THE SYSTEM SUFFICIENT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PAYING THE COSTS OF OPERATION AND MAINTE­ NANCE OF THE SYSTEM AND TO PAY THE PRINCIPAL OF AND INTEREST ON THE BONDS; TO PROVIDE FOR SECURITY FOR THE BONDS; TO PROVIDE FOR THE SEGREGATION AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE REVE­ NUES; TO PROVIDE FOR THE RIGHTS OF THE HOLD­ ERS OF THE BONDS IN ENFORCEMENT THEREOF; AND TO PROVIDE FOR OTHER MATTERS RELATING TO THE BONDS AND THE SYSTEM. ARTICLE B-IV 2020 WATER SUPPLY AND SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEM REVENUE BONDS THE CITY OF HASTINGS ORDAINS: Section 1. Definitions. Whenever used in this Ordinance, except when otherwise indicated by the context, the following terms shall have the following meanings: (a) “Act 94” means Act 94, Public Acts of Michigan, 1933, as amended. (b) “Authority” means the Michigan Finance Authority. (c) “Authorized Officers” means the Mayor, City Manager, City Clerk/Treasurer/Director of Finance of the Issuer. (d) “Bonds” or “Senior Lien Bonds” means any Bonds or series of Bonds so designated and payable from Net Revenues, which are secured by a statutory first lien on the Net Revenues established by the Prior Ordinances and which are senior and superior in all respects with respect to the Net Revenues to any Junior Lien Bonds secured by the statutory second lien established by this Ordinance, together with any additional Bonds of equal standing thereafter issued. (e) “EGLE” means the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy. (f) “Engineers” means Hubbell, Roth and Clark, Inc., consulting engineers of Grand Rapids, Michigan. (g) “Issuer” means the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan. (h) “Junior Lien Bonds” means any Bonds or series of Bonds (including the Series 2020 Bonds) payable from Net Revenues, after satisfaction of any requirements for funding the Redemption Account, and which are secured by a statutory second lien on the Net Revenues and are junior and subordinate in all respects with respect to the Net Revenues to any Outstanding Senior Lien Bonds and any Bonds hereafter issued secured by the statutory first lien established by the Prior Ordinances. (i) “Outstanding Senior Lien Bonds” means the Series 2013 Bonds and any additional bonds issued that are senior in standing and priority of lien with the Junior Lien Bonds. (j) “Prior Ordinances” means Ordinance Nos. 82, 87, 255, 300, 403, 499 and 502 adopted by the City Council authorizing the issuance of Bonds, including the Outstanding Senior Lien Bonds. (k) “Project” means the acquisition, construction, furnishing and equipping of additions, extensions and improvements to the Issuer’s Water Supply and Sewage Disposal System, including improvements to the wastewater treatment plant, together with all necessary interests in land, rights of way and all appurtenances and attachments therefor, as described in the plans prepared by the Engineers and approved herein. (l) “Purchase Contract” means the Purchase Contract to be entered into between the Authority and the Issuer relating to the purchase by the Authority of the Series 2020 Bonds. (m) “Revenues” and “Net Revenues” means the revenues and net revenues of the System and shall be construed as defined in Section 3 of Act 94, including with respect to “Revenues”, the earnings derived from the investment of moneys in the various funds and accounts established by the Prior Ordinances and this Ordinance. (n) “Series 2013 Bonds” means the Issuer’s 2013 Water Supply and Sewage Disposal System Revenue Bond, dated September 17, 2013, in the original principal amount of $1,150,000. (o) “Series 2020 Bonds” means the Issuer’s 2020 Water Supply and Sewage Disposal System Junior Lien Revenue Bond (Limited Tax General Obligation), in the principal amount of not to exceed $9,500,000 issued pursuant to this Ordinance. (p) “Sufficient Government Obligations” means direct obligations of the United States of America or obligations the principal and interest on which is fully guaranteed by the United States of America, not redeemable at the option of the issuer, the principal and interest payments upon which without reinvestment of the interest, come due at such times and in such amounts as to be fully sufficient to pay the interest as it comes due on the Bonds or Junior Lien Bonds and the principal and redemption premium, if any, on the Bonds or Junior Lien Bonds as it comes due whether on the stated maturity date or upon earlier redemption. Securities representing such obligations shall be placed in trust with a bank or trust company, and if any of the Bonds or Junior Lien Bonds are to be called for redemption prior to maturity, irrevocable instructions to call the Bonds for redemption shall be given to the paying agent. (r) “Supplemental Agreement” means the supplemental agreement among the Issuer, the Authority and EGLE relating to the Series 2020 Bonds. (s) “System” means the entire Water Supply and Sewage Disposal system of the Issuer, including the Project and all additions, extensions and improvements hereafter acquired. Section 2. Necessity: Approval of Plans and Specifications. It is hereby determined to be a necessary public purpose of the Issuer to acquire and construct the Project in accordance with the plans and specifications prepared by the Engineers, which plans and specifications are hereby approved. The Project qualifies for the Clean Water Revolving Fund financing program being administered by the EGLE and the Authority, whereby bonds of the Issuer are sold to the Authority and bear interest at a fixed rate of two percent (2.00%) per annum. Section 3. Costs; Useful Life. The cost of the Project is estimated to be Nine Million Seven Hundred Ten Thousand Dollars ($9,710,000), including the payment of incidental expenses as specified in Section 4 of this Ordinance, which estimate of cost is hereby approved and confirmed, and the period of usefulness of the Project is estimated to be not less than thirty (30) years. Section 4. Payment of Cost; Bonds Authorized. To pay part of the cost of acquiring and constructing the Project, legal, engineering, financial and other expenses incident thereto and incident to the issuance and sale of the Series 2020 Bonds, the Issuer shall borrow the sum of not to exceed Nine Million Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($9,500,000), or such lesser amount as shall havn been advanced to the Issuer pursuant to the Purchase Contract and the Supplemental Agreement, and issue the Series 2020 Bonds pursuant to the provisions of Act 94. The remaining cost of the Project, if any, shall be defrayed from Issuer funds on hand and legally available for such use. Except as amended by or expressly provided to the contrary in this Ordinance, all of the provisions of the Prior Ordinances shall apply to the Series 2020 Bonds issued pursuant to this Ordinance, the same as though each of said provisions were repeated in this Ordinance in detail; the purpose of this Ordinance being to authorize the issuance of revenue bonds of subordinate lien with respect to the Outstanding Senior Lien Bonds to finance the cost of acquiring and constructing additions, extensions and improvements to the System, additional bonds of subordinate standing with the Outstanding Senior Lien Bonds for such purpose being authorized by the provisions of the Prior Ordinances, upon the conditions therein stated, which conditions have been fully met. Section 5. Issuance of Series 2020 Bonds; Details. The Series 2020 Bonds of the Issuer, to be designated 2020 WATER SUPPLY AND SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEM JUNIOR LIEN REVENUE BOND (LIMITED TAX GENERAL OBLIGATION), are authorized to be issued in the aggregate principal sum of not to exceed Nine Million Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($9,500,000) as finally determined by order of the EGLE for the purpose of paying part of the cost of the Project, including the costs incidental to the issuance, sale and delivery of the Series 2020 Bonds. The Series 2020 Bonds shall be payable out of the Net Revenues, as set forth more fully in Section 8 hereof, provided that the Series 2020 Bonds shall be subordinate to the prior lien with respect to the Net Revenues in favor of the Outstanding Senior Lien Bonds and of any Bonds hereafter issued. The Series 2020 Bonds shall be in the form of a single fully-registered, nonconvertible bond of the denomination of the full principal amount thereof, dated as of the date of delivery, payable in principal installments as finally determined by the order of the EGLE at the time of sale of the Series 2020 Bonds and approved by the Authority and an Authorized Officer. Principal installments of the Series 2020 Bonds shall be payable on October 1 of the years 2021 to 2040, inclusive, or such other payment dates as hereinafter provided. Interest on the Series 2020 Bonds shall be payable on April 1 and October 1 of each year, commencing October 1, 2020 or on such other interest payment dates as hereinafter provided. Final determination of the principal amount of and interest on the Series 2020 Bonds and the payment dates and amounts of principal installments of the Series 2020 Bonds shall be evidenced by execution of the Purchase Contract and each of the Authorized Officers is authorized and directed to execute and deliver the Purchase Contract when it is in final form and to make the determinations set forth above; provided, however, that the first principal installment shall be due no earlier than October 1,2020, the total number of principal installments shall not exceed twenty (20), and that the total principal amount shall not exceed $9,500,000. The Series 2020 Bonds shall bear interest at a rate of two percent (2.00%) per annum on the par value thereof or such other rate as evidenced by execution of the Purchase Contract, but in any event not to exceed the rate permitted by law, and any Authorized Officers as shall be appropriate shall deliver the Series 2020 Bonds in accordance with the delivery instructions of the Authority. The principal amount of the Series 2020 Bonds is expected to be drawn down by the Issuer periodically, and interest on principal amount shall accrue from the date such principal amount is drawn down by the Issuer. The Series 2020 Bonds shall not be convertible or exchangeable into more than one fully-registered bond. Principal of and interest on the Series 2020 Bonds shall be payable as provided in the Series 2020 Bond form in this Ordinance. The Series 2020 Bonds shall be subject to optional redemption by the Issuer with the prior written approval of the Authority and on such terms as may be required by the Authority. The Treasurer of the Issuer shall record on the registration books payment by the Issuer of each installment of principal or interest or both when made and the cancelled checks or other records evidencing such payments shall be returned to and retained by the Treasurer. Upon payment by the Issuer of all outstanding principal of and interest on the Series 2020 Bonds, the Authority shall deliver the Series 2020 Bonds to the Issuer for cancellation. Section 6. Execution of Series 2020 Bonds. The Series 2020 Bonds shall be signed by the manual or facsimile signature of the Mayor and countersigned by the manual or facsimile signature of the Clerk and shall have the corporate seal of the Issuer or a facsimile thereof impressed thereon. The Series 2020 Bonds bearing the manual or facsimile signatures of the Mayor and the Clerk sold to the Authority shall require no further authentication. Section 7. Registration and Transfer. Any Bond or Junior Lien Bond may be transferred upon the books required to be kept pursuant to this section by the person in whose name it is registered, in person or by the registered owner’s duly authorized attorney, upon surrender of the Bond or Junior Lien Bond for cancellation, accompanied by delivery of a duly executed written instrument of transfer in a form approved by the transfer agent. Whenever any Bond or Junior Lien Bond shall be surrendered for transfer, the Issuer shall execute and the transfer agent shall authenticate and deliver a new Bond or Junior Lien Bond, for like aggregate principal amount. The transfer agent shall require payment by the bondholder requesting the transfer of any tax or other governmental charge required to be paid with respect to the transfer. The Issuer shall not be required (i) to issue, register the transfer of or exchange any Bond or Junior Lien Bond during a period beginning at the opening of business 15 days before the day of the giving of a notice of redemption of Bonds selected for redemption as described in the form of Series 2020 Bonds contained in Section 13 of this Ordinance and ending at the close of business on the day of that giving of notice, or (ii) to register the transfer of or exchange any Bond or Junior Lien Bond so selected for redemption in whole or in part, except the unredeemed portion of Bonds or Junior Lien Bonds being redeemed in part. The Issuer shall give the transfer agent notice of call for redemption at least 20 days prior to the date notice of redemption is to be given. The transfer agent shall keep, or cause to be kept at its principal office sufficient books for the registration and transfer of the Bonds or Junior Lien Bond, which shall at all times be open to inspection by the Issuer; and upon presentation for such purpose the transfer agent shall under such reasonable regulations as it may prescribe, transfer or cause to be transferred on said books Bonds or Junior Lien Bond as hereinbefore provided. If any Bond or Junior Lien Bond shall become mutilated, the Issuer, at the expense of the holder of the Bond or Junior Lien Bond, shall execute, and the transfer agent shall authenticate and deliver, a new Bond or Junior Lien Bond of like tenor in exchange and substitution for the mutilated Bond or Junior Lien Bond, upon surrender to the transfer agent of the mutilated Bond or Junior Lien Bond. If any Bond or Junior Lien Bond issued under this Ordinance shall be lost, destroyed or stolen, evidence of the loss, destruction or theft may be submitted to the transfer agent and, if this evidence is satisfactory to both and indemnity satisfactory to the transfer agent shall be given, and if all requirements of any applicable law including Act 354, Public Acts of Michigan, 1972, as amended (“Act 354”), being sections 129.131 to 129.135, inclusive, of the Michigan Compiled Laws have been met, the Issuer, at the expense of the owner, shall execute, and the transfer agent shall thereupon authenticate and deliver, a new Bond or Junior Lien Bond of like tenor and bearing the statement required by Act 354, or any applicable law hereafter enacted, in lieu of and in substitution for the Bond or Junior Lien Bond so lost, destroyed or stolen. If any such Bond or Junior Lien Bond shall have matured or shall be about to mature, instead of issuing a substitute Bond or Junior Lien Bond the transfer agent may pay the same without surrender thereof. Section 8. Payment of Series 2020 Bonds; Security; Priority of Lien. Principal of and interest on the Series 2020 Bonds shall be payable primarily from the Net Revenues. There is hereby recognized the statutory lien upon the whole of the Net Revenues created by this Ordinance which shall be a lien that is junior and subordinate to the lien of the Outstanding Senior Lien Bonds created by the Prior Ordinances and to any Bonds hereafter issued, to continue until payment in full of the principal of and interest on all Bonds payable from the Net Revenues, or until sufficient cash or Sufficient Government Obligations have been deposited in trust for payment in full of all Junior Lien Bonds, including the Series 2020 Bonds, then outstanding, principal and interest, to maturity, or, if called for redemption, to the date fixed for redemption together with the amount of the redemption premium, if any. Upon deposit of cash or Sufficient Government Obligations, as provided in the previous sentence, the statutory lien shall be terminated with respect to the Series 2020 Bonds, the holders of the Series 2020 Bonds shall have no further rights under this Ordinance except for payment from the deposited funds, and the Series 2020 Bonds shall no longer be considered to be outstanding under this Ordinance. In addition, the Series 2020 Bonds being sold to the Authority, the Issuer hereby pledges its limited tax full faith and credit for the payment of the principal of and interest on the Series 2020 Bonds. Should the Net Revenues of the System at any time be insufficient to pay the principal of and interest on the Series 2020 Bonds as the same become due, then the Issuer shall advance from any funds available therefor, or, if necessary, levy taxes upon all taxable property in the Issuer, subject to constitutional, statutory and charter tax limitations, such sums as may be necessary to pay said principal and interest. The Issuer shall be reimbursed for any such advance from the Net Revenues of the System subsequently received which are not otherwise pledged or encumbered by this Ordinance or the Prior Ordinances. Section 9. Management; Fiscal Year. The operation, repair and management of the System and the acquiring and constructing of the Project shall continue to be under the supervision and control of the Issuer. The Issuer may employ such person or persons in such capacity or capacities as it deems advisable to carry on the efficient management and operation of the System. The Issuer may make such rules and regulations as it deems advisable and necessary to assure the efficient management and operation of the System. The System shall be operated on the basis of an operating year which shall coincide with the Issuer’s fiscal year. Section 10. Rates and Charges: No Free Service. The rates and charges for service furnished by the System and the methods of collection and enforcement of the collection of the rates shall be those in effect on the date of adoption of this Ordinance and are estimated to be sufficient to provide for the payment of the expenses of administration and operation and such expenses for maintenance of the System as are necessary to preserve the System in good repair and working order, to provide for the payment of the principal of and interest on the Bonds and nds as the same become due and payable, and the maintenance of the reserves, if any, therefore; and to provide for all other obligations, expenditures and funds for the System required by law, the Prior Ordinances and this Ordinance. No free service or use of the System, or service or use of the System at less than cost, shall be furnished by the System to any person, firm, or corporation, public or private, or to any public agency or instrumentality, including the Issuer. Section 11. Funds and Accounts; Flow of Funds; Junior Lien Bond and Interest Redemption Fund. All funds belonging to the System and all Revenues of the System shall continue to be set aside as collected and credited to the Receiving Fund established by the Prior Ordinances (the “Receiving Fund”), except as provided in this Ordinance. The Revenues credited to the Receiving Fund are pledged for the purposes of the funds and accounts established by the Prior Ordinances and this Ordinance and shall be transferred or debited from the Receiving Fund periodically in the manner and at the times and in the order of priority specified in the Prior Ordinances and this Ordinance. Funding Existing Funds and Accounts. Out of the Revenues in the Receiving Fund there shall be transferred and debited the amounts required by the Prior Ordinances to be deposited into the existing Operation and Maintenance Fund and the existing Bond and Interest Redemption Fund (including Bond Reserve Account) created pursuant to the Prior Ordinances. Junior Lien Bond and Interest Redemption Account. There is hereby established and there shall be maintained a separate account designated Junior Lien Bond and Interest Redemption Account (the “Junior Lien Redemption Account”). Except as otherwise provided herein, the moneys on deposit therein from time to time shall be used for the purpose of paying the principal of and interest on any Junior Lien Bonds. Out of the Revenues remaining in the Receiving Fund after provision for the transfers and debits described in the previous paragraph, there shall be set aside monthly in the Junior Lien Redemption Account a sum sufficient to provide for the next payment when due of the principal of and interest on the Junior Lien Bonds, less any amount in the Junior Lien Redemption Account representing accrued interest on the Junior Lien Bonds, and less the sum of any funds actually on deposit in the Junior Lien Redemption Account. The amount set aside and transferred to the Junior Lien Redemption Account each month for interest on the Junior Lien Bonds shall be 1/6 of the total amount of interest on the Junior Lien Bonds next coming due or such greater or lesser amount as is necessary to assure that the amount set aside in the Junior Lien Redemption Account as of the first of such month is not less than the product of (a) 1/6 of the amount of interest next due on the Junior Lien Bonds times (b) the number of months elapsed since and including the last interest payment date. For the month immediately prior to each interest payment date the amount set aside and transferred to the Junior Lien Redemption Account to pay interest shall be reduced by amounts, including investment earnings, available in the Junior Lien Redemption Account which are available for such purpose. The amount set aside and transferred to the Junior Lien Redemption Account each month for principal commencing twelve months prior to the first maturity or mandatory sinking fund redemption date shall be 1/12 of the amount of principal next coming due on the Junior Lien Bonds by maturity or as a mandatory redemption requirement or such greater or lesser amount as is necessary to assure that the amount set aside in the Junior Lien Redemption Account as of the first of such month is not less than the product of 1/12 of the amount of principal next due on the Junior Lien Bonds times (b) the number of months elapsed since and including the last principal payment date. If there is any deficiency in the amount previously set aside, that deficiency shall be added to the next succeeding month’s requirement. No further payments need be made into the Junior Lien Redemption Account after enough of the principal installments of the Junior Lien Bonds have been retired so that the amount then held in the Junior Lien Redemption Account (including a bond reserve account, if any), is equal to the entire amount of principal and interest which will be payable at the time of maturity of all the principal installments of the Bond then remaining outstanding. Section 12. Bond Proceeds. The proceeds of the sale of the Series 2020 Bonds as received by the Issuer shall be deposited in a separate account in a bank or banks qualified to act as depository of the proceeds of sale under the provisions of Section 15 of Act 94 designated 2020 WATER SUPPLY AND SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEM JUNIOR LIEN REVENUE BONDS CONSTRUCTION FUND (the “Construction Fund”). Moneys in the Construction Fund shall be applied solely in payment of the cost of the Project and any engineering, legal and other expenses incident thereto and to the financing thereof. Section 13. Bond Form. The Series 2020 Bonds shall be in substantially the following form with such changes or completion as necessary or appropriate to give effect to the intent of this Ordinance and subject to such modifications which may be required by the Michigan Attorney General and the Authority and approved by bond counsel: �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 20, 2020 — Page 11 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY CITY OF HASTINGS 2020 WATER SUPPLY AND SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEM JUNIOR LIEN REVENUE BOND (LIMITED TAX GENERAL OBLIGATION) REGISTERED OWNER: Authority Michigan Finance PRINCIPAL AMOUNT: DATE OF ORIGINAL ISSUE: March 27, 2020 The CITY OF HASTINGS, County of Barry, State of IVfi|higan (the “Issuer”), acknowledges itself to owe and for value received hereby promises to pay, primarily out of the hereinafter described Net Revenues of the Issuer’s Water Supply and Sewage Disposal System (hereinafter defined), to the Michigan Finance Authority (the “Authority”), or registered assigns, the Principal Amount shown above, or such portion thereof as shall have been advanced to the Issuer pursuant to a Purchase Contract between the Issuer and the Authority and a Supplemental Agreement by and among the Issuer, the Authority and the State of Michigan acting through the Department of Environmental Quality, in lawful money of the United States of America, unless prepaid or reduced prior thereto as hereinafter provided. During the time the Principal Amount is being drawn down by the Issuer under this bond, the Authority will periodically provide to the Issuer a statement showing the amount of principal that has been advanced and the date of each advance, which statement shall constitute prima facie evidence of the reported information; provided that no failure on the part of the Authority to provide such a statement or to reflect a disbursement or the correct amount of a disbursement shall relieve the Issuer of its obligation to repay the outstanding Principal Amount actually advanced (subject to any principal forgiveness as provided in Schedule A), all accrued interest thereon, and any other amount payable with respect thereto in accordance with the terms of this bond. The Principal Amount shall be payable on the dates and in the annual principal installment amounts set forth on the Schedule attached hereto and made a part hereof, as such Schedule may be adjusted if less than is disbursed to the Issuer or if a portion of the Principal Amount is prepaid or reduced as provided below, with interest on said principal installments from the date each said installment is delivered to the holder hereof until paid at the rate of two percent (2.00%) per annum. Interest is first payable on October 1, 2020, and semiannually thereafter on the first day of April and October of each year, as set forth in the Purchase Contract. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Bond, so long as the Authority is the owner of this Bond, (a) this Bond is payable as to principal, premium, if any, and interest at The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A. or at such other place as shall be designated in writing to the Issuer by the Authority (the “Authority’s Depository”); (b) the Issuer agrees that it will deposit with the Authority’s Depository payments of the principal of, premium, if any, and interest on this Bond in immediately available funds - by 12:00 noon at least five business days prior to the date on which any such payment is due whether by maturity, redemption or otherwise; in the event that the Authority’s Depository has not received the Issuer’s deposit by 12:00 noon on the scheduled day, the Issuer shall immediately pay to the Authority as invoiced by the Authority an amount to recover the Authority’s administrative costs and lost investment earnings attributable to that late payment; and (c) written notice of any redemption of this Bond shall be given by the Issuer and received by the Authority’s Depository at least 40 days prior to the date on which such redemption is to be made. Additional Interest In the event of a default in the payment of principal or interest hereon when due, whether at maturity, by redemption or otherwise, the amount of such default shall bear interest (the “additional interest”) at a rate equal to theThWdRKt^^ iorit/s cost of providing funds (as determined by the Authority) to make p^yrn^rit on the bonds of the Authority issued to provide funds to purchase this bond but Jn no event in excess of the maximum rate of interest permitted by law. meTadditional interest shall continue to accrue until the Authority has been fully reimbursed for all costs incurred by the Authority (as determined by the Authority) as a consequence of the Issuer’s default. Such additional interest shall be payable on the interest payment date following demand of the Authority. In the event that (for reasons other than the default in the payment of any municipal obligation purchased by the Authority) the investment of amounts in the reserve account established by the Authority for the bonds of the Authority issued to provide funds to purchase this bond fails to provide sufficient available funds (together with any other funds which may be made available for such purpose) to pay the interest on outstanding bonds of the Authority issued to fund such account, the Issuer shall and hereby agrees to pay on demand only the Issuer’s pro rata share (as determined by the Authority) of such deficiency as additional interest on this bond. For prompt payment of principal and interest on this bond, the Issuer has irrevocably pledged the revenues of the Water Supply and Sewage Disposal System of the Issuer, including all appurtenances, extensions and improvements thereto (the “Water Supply and Sewage Disposal System”), after provision has been made for reasonable and necessary expenses of operation, maintenance and administration (the “Net Revenues”), and a statutory lien thereon is hereby recognized and created. This bond is a single, fully-registered, non-convertible bond in the principal sum indicated above issued pursuant to Ordinance Nos. 82, 87, 255, 300, 403, 499, 502 and 583 duly adopted by the City Council (the “Ordinances”), and under and in full compliance with the.Constitution and statutes of the State of Michigan, including specifically Act 94, Public Acts of Michigan, 1933, as amended, for the purpose of paying part of the cost of acquiring and constructing additions, extensions and improvements to the Water Supply and Sewage Disposal System of the Issuer. For a complete statement of the revenues from which and the conditions under which this bond is payable, a statement of the conditions under which additional bonds of superior and equal standing may hereafter be issued and the general covenants and provisions pursuant to which this bond is issued, reference is made to the Ordinances. This bond is of junior standing and priority of lien as to the Net Revenues to the Issuer’s Water Supply and Sewage Disposal System Revenue Bond, Series 2013, dated September 17, 2013 (the “Outstanding Bonds”). This bond is primarily a self-liquidating bond, payable, both as to principal and interest, primarily from the Net Revenues of the System. The principal of and interest on this bond are secured by the statutory second lien hereinbefore mentioned. As additional security, the Issuer has pledged its limited tax full faith and credit for payment of the principal of and interest on the bonds of this issue, which includes the Issuer’s obligation to levy taxes, if necessary, within applicable constitutional, statutory and charter tax limitations. The Issuer has covenanted and agreed, and does hereby covenant and agree, to fix and maintain at all times while any bonds payable from the Net Revenues of the Water Supply and Sewage Disposal System shall be outstanding, such rates for. service furnished by the Water Supply and Sewage Disposal System as shall be sufficient to provide for payment of the interest upon and the principal of this bond and any bonds of equal standing with this bond, the Outstanding Bonds and any additional bonds of equal standing with the Outstanding Bonds, as and when the same shall become due and payable, and to maintain a bond redemption fund (including, except for bonds of this issue and any Junior Lien Bonds, a bond reserve account) therefor, to provide for the payment of expenses of administration and operation and such expenses for maintenance of the Water Supply and Sewage Disposal System as are necessary to preserve the same in good repair and working order, and to provide for such other expenditures and funds for the Water Supply and Sewage Disposal System as are required by the Ordinances. Principal installments of this bond are subject to prepayment by the least one hundred percent (100%) of the maximum amount of principal and interest thereafter maturing in any operating year on the then outstanding Senior Lien Bonds, Junior Lien Bonds and on the additional Bonds then being issued. If the additional Junior Lien Bonds are to be issued in whole or in part for refunding outstanding Junior Lien Bonds, the annual principal and interest requirements shall be determined by deducting from the principal and interest requirements for each operating year the annual principal and interest requirements of any Junior Lien Bonds to be refunded from the proceeds of the additional Junior Lien Bonds. For purposes of this subparagraph (b) the Issuer may elect to use as the last preceding operating year any operating year ending not more than sixteen months prior to the date of delivery of the additional Junior Lien Bonds and as the next to the last preceding operating year, any operating year ending not more than twenty-eight months prior to the date of delivery of the additional Junior Lien Bonds. Determination by the Issuer as to existence of conditions permitting the issuance of additional Junior Lien Bonds shall be conclusive. No additional Junior Lien Bonds of equal standing as to the Net Revenues of the System shall be issued pursuant to the authorization contained in this subparagraph if the Issuer shall then be in default in making its required payments to the Operation and Maintenance Fund or the CITY OF HASTINGS Redemption Fund. (c) For refunding a part or all of the Junior Lien Bonds then By_____________________________ Its Mayor outstanding and paying costs of issuing such additional Junior Lien (Seal) Bonds including deposits which may be required to be made to the Countersigned: bond reserve account, if any, for such Junior Lien Bonds. No additional Junior Lien Bonds shall be issued pursuant to this subsection unless the maximum amount of principal and interest maturing in any operating By____________________________________ 1__ Its City Clerk year after giving effect to the refunding shall be less than the maximum amount of principal and interest maturing in any operating year prior to DEQ Project No.: 5687-01 giving effect to the refunding. DEQ Approved Amt: $. Section 16. Negotiated Sale: Application to EGLE and Authority: SCHEDULE A Execution of Documents. The Issuer determines that it is in the best interest of the Issuer to negotiate the sale of th^ ^Series 2020 Bonds to Based on the schedule provided below unless revised as provided in the Authority because the Clean Water Revolving Fund financing program this paragraph, repayment of the principal of the bond shall be made until provides significant interest savings to the Issuer compared to competitive the full amount advanced to the Issuer is repaid. In the event the Order of sale in the municipal bond market. The Authorized Officers are hereby Approval issued by the Department of Environmental Quality (the “Order”) authorized to make application to the Authority and to the EGLE for approves a principal amount of assistance less than the amount of the placement of the Series 2020 Bonds with the Authority. The actions taken bond delivered to the Authority, the Authority shall only disburse principal by the Authorized Officers with respect to the Series 2020 Bonds prior to up to the amount stated in the Order. In the event (1) that the payment the adoption of this Ordinance are ratified and confirmed. The Authorized schedule approved by the Issuer and described below provides for pay­ Officers are each authorized to execute and deliver the Purchase Contract, ment of a total principal amount greater than the amount of assistance ap­ the Supplemental Agreement and the Issuer’s Certificate. Any Authorized proved by the Order (2) that less than the principal amount of assistance Officer is further authorized to execute and deliver such contracts, approved by the Order is disbursed to the Issuer by the Authority, the documents and certificates as are necessary or advisable to qualify the Authority shall prepare a new payment schedule which shall be effective Series 2020 Bonds for the Clean Water Revolving Fund. Prior to the upon receipt by the Issuer, or (3) that any portion of the principal amount delivery of the Series 2020 Bonds to the Authority, any Authorized Officer of assistance approved by the Order and disbursed to the Issuer is for­ is hereby authorized to make such changes to the form of the Series 2020 given pursuant to the Order, the Authority shall prepare a new payment Bonds contained in Section 13 of this Ordinance as may be necessary to schedule which shall be effective upon receipt by the Issuer. conform to the requirements of Act 227, Public Acts of Michigan 1985, as amended (“Act 227”), including, but not limited to changes in the principal Maturity Date Principal Amount maturity and interest payment dates and references to additional security October 1,2021 $390,000 required by Act 227. October 1,2022 Section 17. Covenant Regarding Tax Exempt Status of the Bonds. $400,000 October 1,2023 The Issuer shall, to the extent permitted by law, take all actions within its $405,000 October 1,2024 control necessary to maintain the exemption of the interest on the Series $415,000 October 1,2025 $425,000 2020 Bonds from general federal income taxation (as opposed to any October 1,2026 alternative minimum or other indirect taxation) under the Internal Revenue $430,000 October 1,2027 $440,000 Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), including, but not limited to, October 1,2028 $450,000 actions relating to any required rebate of arbitrage earnings and the October 1,2029 $460,000 expenditure and investment of Series 2020 Bonds proceeds and moneys October 1,2030 $470,000 deemed to be Bond proceeds. October 1,2031 $475,000 Section. 48. Approval of Bond Counsel. The representation of the October 1,2032 $485,000 Issuer by Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone, p.l.c. (“Miller Canfield”), October 1,2033 $495,000 as bond counsel is hereby approved, notwithstanding the representation October 1,2034 $505,000 by Miller Canfield of the Authority in connection with the State Revolving October 1,2035 $515,000 Fund program which may include advising the Authority with respect to Odtober 1,2036 $525,000 this borrowing. . .. .......... October 1,2037 $535,000 Section 19. Approval of Bond Details. The Authorized Officers are October 1,2038 $550,000 each hereby authorized to adjust the final bond details set forth herein October 1,2039 $560,000 to the extent necessary or convenient to complete the transaction October 1,2040 $570,000 authorized herein, and in pursuance of the foregoing is authorized to exercise the authority and make the determinations authorized pursuant Interest on the bond shall accrue on that portion of principal disbursed to Section 7a(1)(c) of Act 94, including but not limited to determinations by the Authority to the Issuer which has not been forgiven pursuant to the regarding interest rates, prices, discounts, maturities, principal amounts, Order from the date such portion is disbursed, until paid, at the rate of denominations, dates of issuance, interest payment dates, redemption 2.00% per annum, payable October 1,2020 and semiannually hereafter. rights, the place of delivery and payment, and other matters, provided The Issuer agrees that it will deposit with the Authority’s Depository, that the principal amount of Series 2020 Bonds issued shall not exceed or such other place as shall be designated in writing to the Issuer by the the principal amount authorized in this Ordinance, the interest rate per Authority payments of the principal of, premium, if any, and interest on this annum on the Series 2020 Bonds shall not exceed two percent (2.00%) bond in immediately available funds by 12:00 noon at least five business per annum, and the Series 2020 Bonds shall mature in not more than days prior to the date on which any such payment is due whether by ma­ twenty (20) annual installments. turity, redemption or otherwise. In the event that the Authority’s Deposi­ Section 20. Savings Clause. All ordinances, resolutions or orders, or tory has not received the Issuer’s deposit by 12:00 noon on the scheduled part thereof, in conflict with the provisions of this Ordinance are, to the day, the Issuer shall immediately pay to the Authority as invoiced by the extent of such conflict, repealed. Authority an amount to recover the Authority’s administrative costs and Section 21. Severability: Paragraph Headings: and Conflict. If any lost investment earnings attributable to that late payment. section, paragraph, clause or provision of this Ordinance shall be held Section 14. Bondholders’ Rights: Receiver. The holder or holders of invalid, the invalidity of such section, paragraph, clause or provision shall the Bonds or Junior Lien Bonds representing in the aggregate not less not affect any of the other provisions of this Ordinance. The paragraph than twenty per cent (20%) of the entire principal amount thereof then headings in this Ordinance are furnished for convenience of reference only outstanding, may, by suit, action, mandamus or other proceedings, protect and shall not be considered to be part of this Ordinance. and enforce the statutory lien upon the Net Revenues of the System, and Section 22. Publication and Recordation. This Ordinance shall be may, by suit, action, mandamus or other proceedings, enforce and compel published in full in the Hastings Banner, a newspaper of general circulation performance of all duties of the officers of the Issuer, including the fixing of in the Issuer qualified under State law to publish legal notices, promptly sufficient rates, the collection of Revenues, the proper segregation of the after its adoption, and shall be recorded in the Ordinance Book of the Revenues of the System and the proper application thereof. The statutory Issuer and such record authenticated by the signatures of the Mayor and lien upon the Net Revenues, however, shall not be construed as to compel the City Clerk. the sale of the System or any part thereof. Section 23. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall be effective upon its If there is a default in the payment of the principal of or interest upon the adoption and publication. Bonds or the Junior Lien Bonds, any court having jurisdiction in any proper ADOPTED AND SIGNED THIS 10th day of February, 2020. action may appoint a receiver to administer and operate the System on behalf of the Issuer and under the direction of the court, and by and with Signed _________________________ ___ the approval of the court to perform all of the duties of the officers of the Its Mayor Issuer more particularly set forth herein and in Act 94. Signed The holder or holders of the Bonds and the Junior Lien Bonds shall have Its City Clerk all other rights and remedies given by Act 94 and law, for the payment I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing constitutes a true and complete and enforcement of the Bonds and the Junior Lien Bonds and the security copy of an Ordinance duly adopted by the City Council of the City of therefor. Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, at a regular meeting held on Section 15. Additional Bonds. The Issuer may issue additional bonds the 10th day of February, 2020, and that said meeting was conducted and of equal standing with the Junior Lien Bonds for the following purposes public notice of said meeting was given pursuant to and in full compliance and subject to the following conditions: with the Open Meetings Act, being Act 267, Public Acts of Michigan, (a) To complete the Project in accordance with the 1976, and that the minutes of said meeting were kept and will be or have plans and specifications therefor. Such bonds shall not be authorized been made available as required by said Act. unless the engineers in charge of construction shall execute a certificate I further certify that the following Members were present at said meeting: evidencing the fact that additional funds are needed to complete the Bowers, Cary, Jarvis, Maupin-Moore, McNabb-Starige; Redman, Project in accordance with the plans and specifications therefor and Resseguie, Smith, and Tossava. stating the amount that will be required to complete the Project. If such and that the following Members were absent: None. certificate shall be so executed and filed with the Issuer, it shall be the I further certify that Member Smith moved for adoption of said Ordinance duty of the Issuer to provide for and issue additional revenue bonds and that said motion was supported by Member Jarvis. in the amount stated in said certificate to be necessary to complete I further certify that the following Members voted for adoption of said the Project in accordance with the plans and specifications plus an Ordinance: amount necessary to issue such bonds or to provide for part or all of Bowers, Cary, Jarvis, Maupin-Moore, McNabb-Stange, Redman, such amount from other sources. Resseguie, Smith, and Tossava. (b) For subsequent repairs, extensions, enlargements I further certify that said Ordinance has been recorded in the Ordinance and improvements to the System or for subsequent repairs, extensions, Book and that such recording has been authenticated by the signatures enlargements and improvements to the System and for the purpose of the Mayor and the City Clerk. of refunding part or all of the Junior Lien Bonds then outstanding and paying costs of issuing such additional Junior Lien Bonds. Junior Lien Bonds for such purposes shall not be issued pursuant to this subparagraph (b) unless the Adjusted Net Revenues of the System for the then last two (2) preceding twelve-month operating years or the Adjusted Net Revenues for the last preceding twelve-month operating City Clerk year, if the same shall be lower than the average, shall be equal to at Issuer prior to maturity only with the prior written consent of the Authority and on such terms as may be required by the Authority. This bond is transferable only upon the books of the Issuer by the registered owner in person or the registered owner’s attorney duly authorized in writing, upon the surrender of this bond together with a written instrument of transfer satisfactory to the transfer agent, duly executed by the registered owner or the registered owner’s attorney duly authorized in writing, and thereupon a new bond or bonds in the same aggregate principal amount and of the same maturity shall be issued to the transferee in exchange therefor as provided in the Ordinance, and upon payment of the charges, if any, therein prescribed. It is hereby certified and recited that all acts, conditions and things required by law to be done precedent to and in the issuance of this bond have been done and performed in regular and due time and form as required by law. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the City of Hastings, County of Barry, State of Michigan, by its City Council has caused this bond to be executed with the manual or facsimile signatures of its Mayor and its City Clerk and the corporate seal of the City to be impressed or imprinted, hereon, all as of the Date of Original Issue. �Page 12 — Thursday, February 20, 2020 — The Hastings Banner NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 20-DE Estate of Leebella Geiger. Date of birth: 10/09/1928. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Leebella Geiger, died 11/18/2019. Creditors of the decedent are notified that ail claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Terri L. Geiger, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 5341 Usborne Rd., Freeport, Ml 49325 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 01/20/20 John L. Teeples P39341 25 Ionia Ave. SW, - Ste. 230 Grand Rapids, Ml 49503 616-776-7200 Terri L. Geiger 5341 Usborne Rd. Freeport, Ml 49325 269-838-7089 137485 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 19-28404-DE Estate of Michael Gabriel Eyde. Date of birth: 03/13/1939. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Michael Gabriel Eyde, died 11/11/2019. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to W. Joseph Costello, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street, Ste. 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 02/17/2020 Melissa K. Allen P-51908 12800 Escanaba Drive Ste. F DeWitt, Ml 48820 (517) 669-1078 W. Joseph Costello 12800 Escanaba Drive Ste. F DeWitt, Ml 48820 (517)281-3025 137566 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 20-28432-DE Estate of Nicole Robertson. Date of birth: 02/25/1966. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Nicole Robertson, died 12/24/2018. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented tp Timothy P. Robertson, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street, # 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 01/06/2020 Joseph V. Coraci P63778 44028 Mound, Ste. 2 Sterling Heights, Ml 48314 (586)991-5860 Timothy P. Robertson 589 Kellogg St. Nashville, Michigan 49073 (517)588-9821 137561 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on March 19,2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagors): Randy Miller and Patti Miller, husband and wife Original Mortgagee: Household Finance Corporation ill Foreclosing Assignee (if any): U.S. Bank Trust, N.A., as Trustee for LSF10 Master Participation Trust Date of Mortgage: August 12,2005 Date of Mortgage Recording: August 19,2005 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $119,893.46 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Lot 12, Block 16 of Lincoln Park Addition, according to the plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, page 55, Barry County Records Common street address (if any): 705 W Clinton St, Hastings, Ml 49058-2043 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemptioh period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: February 20,2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1410646 (02-20)(03-12) 137666 SYNOPSIS Hastings Charter Township Regular Meeting February 11, 2020 Meeting called to order at 7:00 p.m. Seven board members present, Approved all consent agenda items Approved resolution 01 -2020 Approved Supervisor attending Recycling Conf. Appointed auditors for Fiscal 2019 Fiscal Approved payment of bills Dept, reports received and put on file Motion to adjourn 7:54 pm Respectfully submitted, Anita S. Mennell - Clerk Attested to by Jim Brown - Supervisor 137668 SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Regular Meeting February 12,2020 Supervisor Stoneburner called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. Present: Clerk Goebel, Treasurer Pence, Supervisor Stoneburner, Trustee VanNiman & Trustee Borden Agenda and Minutes were approved. Commissioner’s report was placed on file. Drain Commissioner Dull reported on lake situations. Public comments, were received. Fire, Police and Parks Department reports were placed on file. Supervisor, Treasurer, Trustees and Clerk’s Report’s were received. Approved paying bills. Approved Fire Dept, project bids. Approved Resolution #2020-1: Adjustment of March Board of Review Dates. Approved moving March regular board meeting from March 11 to March 18. Public comments and Board comments were received. Meeting adjourned at 8:10 p.m. Submitted by: Rod Goebel, Clerk, Prairievile Twp. NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND CLAIMANTS OF International Convention Services, Inc. Creditors and claimants of International Convention Services, Inc., a Michigan corporation, are hereby notified that the corporation was dissolved as a corporation under the Michigan Business Corporation Act, effective January 31, 2020. If you have a claim against the corporation, you are requested to comply with the following: a. Prepare a written statement of your claim, describing the nature of the claim, the dollar amount of the claim, if known, and if not known, an estimate, and the circumstances on which it is based. Include the name, address, and phone number of a person who can provide information about your claim if the corporation wishes to obtain additional information. b. Mail the written statement to International Convention Services* Inc, at the following address: 202 South Broadway, Hastings, Michigan 49058. Your claim will be barred unless a proceeding to enforce the claim is commenced within one year after the date of publication of this notice. This notice is given pursuant to section 842a of the Michigan Business Corporation Act, MCL 450.1842a. Drafted by: Nathan E. Tagg (P68994) Tripp & Tagg, Attorneys at Law 202 South Broadway . Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269) 948-2900 Q://DHTCIientFiles/ICSTravel,lnc/Notice to Creditors.Doc Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on March 12, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagors): Luther F. Smith Jr., a married man and Melissa Smith, his wife Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for AmeriFirst Financial Corporation its successors and assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): AmeriFirst Financial Corporation Date of Mortgage: September 6, 2012 Date of Mortgage Recording: September 13, 2012 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $145,890.60 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Lot 71, Misty Ridge No. 3, Village of Middleville, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 53, Barry County Records. Common street address (if any): 663 Green Meadows Dr, Middleville, Ml 49333-8180 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 60^3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: February 13,2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1409798 (02-13)(03-05) 137295 NOTICE OF TRUST Dated Mailed: 2-12-2020 THE CHARLES E. HEACOCK AND DORIS L. HEACOCK REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST, DATED JUNE 29, 2009 ACCEPTANCE OF TRUST BY CHARLES L. HEACOCK Under Michigan law, MCL 700.7814(2)®, the trustee is required to inform each qualified trust beneficiary of certain information; additional information is also provided under MCL 700.7604(1) (b): ACCEPTANCE OF TRUST: Under Article A, Section V, Paragraph C of THE CHARLES E. HEACOCK AND DORIS L. HEACOCK REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST, dated June 29, 2009, (the Trust), I, CHARLES L. HEACOCK, was designated as Successor Trustee upon the inability of DORIS L. HEACOCK to serve as Trustee. DORIS L. HEACOCK died on January 24, 2020. Her spouse CHARLES E. HEACOCK predeceased her on October 30,2013. Pursuant to Article A, Section V, Paragraph C of the Trust, I, CHARLES L. HEACOCK, accept the Trust and agree to become a Successor Trustee, with all of the responsibilities, rights and title I may have in this Trust. REGISTRATION: The trust is not registered in any court in Michigan. TERMS OF THE TRUST: You have the right to request and receive a copy of the terms of the trust that describe or affect your interest. A copy of the trust and any known amendment® that include the relevant terms of the trust that describe or affect your interests is attached, the terms that do not describe, or affect your interests have been redacted TIME ALLOWED FOR COMMENCING A PROCEEDING: You have six months from the date of this notice to commence a Judicial proceeding to contest the validity of this trust which was irrevocable at the death of DORIS L. HEACOCK. TRUSTEE’S NAME, ADDRESS AND TELEPHONE NUMBER: CHARLES L. HEACOCK 3432 Podunk Lake Rd. Hastings, Ml 49058 Telephone Number: (269) 838-9872 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement. Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on March 19, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE: Mortgagor®: Jeannie M. Tenhaaf, a married woman Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (“MERS”), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns Date of mortgage: May 15, 2006 Recorded on June 16,2006, in Document No. 1166049, Foreclosing Assignee (if any): NewRez, LLC f/k/a New Penn Financial LLC, d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing Amount claimed to be due at the date hereof: Two Hundred Fifty-Nine Thousand Forty-Two and 63/100 Dollars ($259,042.63) Mortgaged premises: Situated in Barry County, and described as: PARCEL 1: Lot 31, Schaffer's Point, according to the plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 40, Barry County Records Parcel 2: A parcel of land adjacent to the plat of Schaffer's Point in Section 20, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, Yankee Springs Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as beginning at the Southeast corner of said plat; thence North 14 degrees 00 minutes East $98.00 feet; thence North 03; degrees 30 minutes East 152 feet; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 180.74 feet; thence South 00 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 341.63 feet; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds West 241.52 feet to the Point of Beginning. Excepting therefrom: A parcel of land adjacent to the plat of Schaffer's Point of Section 20, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, described as commencing at the Southeast corner of said plat; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 15.00 feet; thence North 14 degrees 00 minutes East 50.00 feet for true point of beginning; thence North 14 degrees 00 East 100.00 feet; thence north 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 188.50 feet; thence South 00 degrees 41 minutes 31 seconds East 96.90 feet; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds West 213.85 feet to the point of beginning. Also except: A parcel of land adjacent to the plat of Schaffer's Point in Section 20, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, described as commencing at the Southeast corner of said plat; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 15.00 feet; thence North 14 degrees 00 minutes East 270.00 feet; thence North 03 degrees 30 minutes East 30.00 feet for true point of beginning; thence North 03 degrees 30 minutes East 50.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 152.00 feet; thence South 00 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 50.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds West 155.67 feet to the point of beginning. Also except: A parcel of land adjacent to the plat of Schaffer's Point in Section 20, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, described as commencing at the Southeast corner of said plat; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 15.00 feet; thence North 14 degrees 00 minutes East 150.00 for the Point of Beginning; thence North 14 degrees 00 minutes East 51.38 feet; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 175.30 feet; thence South 00 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 50.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds West 188,50 feet to the point of beginning. Also except: A parcel of land adjacent to the plat of Schaffers Point in Section 20, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, described as beginning at a point which lies North 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 15.00 feet from the Southeast corner of said plat; thence North 14 degrees 00 minutes East 50.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 213.85 feet; thence South 00 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 48.45 feet; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds West 226.52 feet to the point of beginning. Commonly known as 1230 Lynn Dr, Middleville, Ml 49333 The redemption period will be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless abandoned under MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of such sale, or 15 days from the MCL 600.3241 a(b) notice, whichever is later; or unless extinguished pursuant to MCL 600.3238. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of Act 236 of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale will be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, or the Mortgagee’s attorney. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. NewRez, LLC f/k/a New Penn Financial tLC, d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing Mortgagee/Assignee Schrfeiderman & Sherman P.C. 23938 Research Dr, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, Ml 48335 248.539.7400 1410769 (02-20)(03-12) 137685 Paul Martin Czub Jr., 60, of Battle Creek, was convicted of operating a vehicle while impaired Oct. 14,2019, on Woodlawn Avenue in Hastings Charter Township, as a third-time offender. Records showed he was previously convicted of operating a vehicle while intoxi­ cated March 3, 2008, in Minnesota; Aug. 18, 2009, in Wisconsin; and Aug. 31, 2015, in Kalamazoo. He was sentenced by Judge Michael Schipper to three days in jail, with credit for three days served and $798 in fines and costs. He was ordered to serve probation for 36 months, with oversight fees of $360, and participate in the Calhoun County Veterans’ Court. He was placed in home detention on a GPS tether until he can receive inpatient treatment. Czub may leave his resi­ dence only to go to treatment or Alcoholics Anonymous/Narcotics Anonymous. A count of operating a vehicle while intoxicated with a 0.08 blood alcohol content and a count of operating a vehicle while his driver’s license was suspended were dismissed. Nathan Larry Harmsen, 40, of Middleville, was convicted of reckless use of firearms, a handgun, and possession of a dan­ gerous weapon, a muffler or silencer, Sept. 23, 2019, in Thomapple Township. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to serve 18 days in jail, with credit for 18 days served on each count, with the sentences to be served concur­ rently. He was ordered to pay $1,108 in fines and costs and placed on probation for 24 months, with oversight fees of $240. He will be assessed for alcohol use/abuse and must forfeit the weapons. A second count of pos­ sessing a dangerous weapon, muffler or silencer, and a count of possessing a firearm while he was under the influence of liquor, were dismissed. Douglas Allyn Shilton, 44, of Sunfield, was convicted of attempted larceny in a build­ ing, trying to steal furniture, baby items, household goods, kitchen items and tools May 1, 2018, in Hastings Charter Township. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to serve 21 days in jail, with credit for one day served, and ordered to pay $9,458 in fines and costs, which includes $9,000 in restitution. Shilton was placed on probation for 24 months, with probation fees of $180. A charge of larceny in a building was dismissed. Nelson William Smith, 53, of the Michigan Department of Corrections Carson City Correctional Facility, was convicted of third-degree criminal sexual conduct involv­ ing a juvenile between the age of 13 and 16 on or about Nov. 1, 2007, and Aug. 31, 2008, in Rutland Charter Township. Smith was sen­ tenced by Judge Schipper to 30 to 180 months in prison, with credit for 162 days served, and ordered to pay $998 in fines and costs. Counts of first-degree and a second-degree criminal sexual conduct were dismissed. Court records showed Smith has prior convictions of operat­ ing a vehicle while intoxicated, third offense, Feb. 26, 1996, in Kent County; assaulting, resisting or obstructing an officer, and assault with a dangerous weapon, both June 26,2003, in Kent County; assault with intent to do great bodily harm or strangulation, and arson of a dwelling house, both June 22, 2010, in Ionia County. Squatters vandalize Gun Lake home A 60-year-old man called police Feb. 4 to report evidence of squatters at a house he owned in the 10000 block of Woodland Drive on Gun Lake. An officer went to the home and saw a window had been broken. The officer had to kick down the front door to get inside and found the house was vandalized with holes in the walls, candy wrappers and obscenities painted on the wall. The case is inactive pending further information. Plane ticket scam costs resident $700 An 80-year-old Delton man went to the Barry County Slierifft Office Feb. 8 to report he had been scammed out of $700. The man found a link online to purchase Delta Airline tickets for a promotion. He talked to a man over the phone who said if the Delton man |>aid in eBay gift cards, the two round-trip tickets would only be $700. The local man bought the gift |ards and provided the numbers over the phone, and later realized he had been scammed. The case is inactive pending further information. Yard doughnuts lead to driveway crash A 29-year-old man called police at 2:38 p.m. Feb. 10 to report he had been in a two-car accident with his 24-year-old girlfriend in their driveway. The woman called moments later to report she had punched her boyfriend in the face. The man said he had driven to the end of their driveway in the 3000 block of North M-43 in Carlton Township to get the mail, and he did some doughnuts in their field. As he was driving back to the residence, the woman was driving to work, and when he came over a hill and saw her car, he was unable to avoid her vehicle, and slid into it. The woman got out of her car, opened his driver’s side door and punched him in the face. The man said he did not want to press charges. The couple had been arguing throughout that day. The woman asked to have an officer present while she collected her belongings from the residence and went back to her father’s house. Information was forwarded to the prosecuting attorney. Walmart reports skip-scanning Walmart employees detained shoplifters in two separate incidents Feb. 14. A 54-year-old Wayland woman was stopped after an employee saw her take seven items worth $41.04 through the self-checkout lane without paying for them. She bought $38.97 worth of merchandise. The woman said she didn’t know why she did not pay for the items, since she had the money to do so. Information was forwarded to the prosecuting attorney. At 2:20 p.m. a 19-year-old Hastings woman bought some movies in the self-checkout. But she didn’t pay for two movies and a safe she had in her cart, which totaled $51.95. She admitted to not paying for the items and was arrested. Banner CLASSIFIEDS PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that ail dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. B us in ess S er vices Help Wanted BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements. Dis­ count for Seniors & Veterans. 269-320-3890. SUNNY CREST YOUTH RANCH, home for neglected & abused boys. Wanted- Di­ rector of Finance, part-time $20.00-$28.00 hour. Contact Wes Vandenburg 616-558­ 7464. MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. Automotive 03 HONDA PILOT, leather, good condition inside, needs motor. Asking $1,500 OBO. 269-838-6590. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 20, 2020 — Page 13 ILLvIAL FnAI JWYT'ir'FG 11VF > 1VJL? Notice Of Foreclosure by Advertisement THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Danielle Marie Milligan, an unmarried woman, to Habitat for Humanity Michigan Fund, Inc., dated March 26,2018, recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, on April 23,2018, as Document No. 2018-004116, as assigned to Habitat for Humanity I Barry County, Inc., Mortgagee, of 1215 N. Broadway, Hastings, Michigan 49058, by an Assignment of Mortgage dated March 26, 2018, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on April 23, 2018, as document No. 2018­ 004117, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of February 5, 2018, the sum of $121,549.00., plus unearned gifted equity of $20,533.34. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is given under Section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check, at the East Steps of the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 (that being the place of holding Circuit Court in said County) starting promptly at 1:00 p.m, on Thursday, March 19, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. Said premises are situated in the Township of Rutland, County of Barry, State of Michigan, described as follows: DESCRIPTION OF LOT 16, SMITH’S LAKEVIEW CENTER: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF LOT 17, SMITH’S LAKEVIEW ESTATES NO. 1; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 42 MINUTES 30 SECONDS WEST, 270.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00 DEGREES 17 MINUTES 30 SECONDS EAST, 49.54 FEET; THENCE NORTH 41 DEGREES 42 MINUTES 56 SECONDS WEST, 100.04 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE NORTH 41 DEGREES 42 MINUTES 56 SECONDS EAST, 170.06 FEET; THENCE NORTH 49 DEGREES 51 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 84.27 FEET; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY, 123.86 FEET ALONG A 383.00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE LEFT, THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS SOUTH 61 DEGREES 09 MINUTES 56 SECONDS EAST, 123.32 FEET; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY, 60.55 FEET ALONG A 317.00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE RIGHT, THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS SOUTH 64 DEGREES 57 MINUTES 30 SECONDS EAST, 60.46 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 49 DEGREES 51 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST, 149.22 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. THIS IS INTENDED TO DESCRIBE LOT 16 OF SMITH’S LAKEVIEW CENTER, RUTLAND TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN. TOGETHER WITH AN EASEMENT FOR INGRESS, egress DESCRIBED EASEMENT FOR INGRESS* EGRESS „ AND UTILITIES: BEGINNING AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF^LOT 16, SMITH’S LAKEVIEW ESTATES NO. 1; "THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 42 MINUTES 3D_SgCONDS WEST, 66.00 FEET TO THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF LOT 17 OF SAID PLAT; THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREE 17 MINUTES 30 SECONDS EAST, 132.00 FEET TO THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID LOT 17; THENCE NORTH 41 DEGREES 43 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST, 220.19 FEET; THENCE NORTHWESTERLY, 158.86 FEET ALONG A 317.00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE LEFT, THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS NORTH 56 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 25 SECONDS WEST, 157.21 FEET; THENCE NORTHWESTERLY, 123.86 FEET ALONG A 383.00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE RIGHT, THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS NORTH 61 DEGREES 09 MINUTES 56 SECONDS WEST, 123.32 FEET: THENCE NORTH 42 DEGREES 20 MINUTES 34 SECONDS EAST, 66.22 FEET; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY, 97.62 FEET ALONG A 317.00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE LEFT, THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS SOUTH 61 DEGREES 36 MINUTES 30 SECONDS EAST, 97.23 FEET; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY, 191.94 FEET ALONG A 383.00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE RIGHT, THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS SOUTH 56 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 25 SECONDS EAST, 189.94 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 41 DEGREES 43 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 220.19 FEET; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY, 49.54 FEET ALONG A 66.00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE RIGHT, THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS SOUTH 20 DEGREES 12 MINUTES 45 SECONDS EAST, 48.39 FEET TO THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF LOT 16, SMITH’S LAKEVIEW ESTATES NO. 1; THENCE SOUTH 01 DEGREE 17 MINUTES 30 SECONDS WEST, 132.00 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING AN£.. ,.Ai.. Commonly known as: 2811 Onyx Court, Hastings, Michigan 49058. PP#: 08-13-235-016-00 The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 13,2020 Rhoades McKee PC Attorneys for Mortgagee Joseph A. Lucas (P-59595) Business Address: 55 Campau Avenue, N.W., Suite 300 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (616)235-3500 137423 NOTICE TO THE RESIDENTS OF BARRY COUNTY Notice is hereby given that the Barry County Zoning Board of Appeals will conduct a public hearing for the following: Case Number V-2-2020 - John Brookmeyer (Property Owner) Location: 2525 Campground Road, Hastings, in Section 29 of Hastings Township. Purpose: Request a variance to construct a 24x24 addition to a garage that will result in a 4 ft side yard setback (the minimum is 20 ft) in the RR (Rural Residential) zoning district. MEETING DATE:March 09, 2020. TIME: 7:00 PM PLACE: Tyden Center, Community Room, 121 South Church Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Site inspections of the above described property will be completed by the Zoning Board of Appeals members before the hearing. Interested persons desiring to present their views upon an appeal, either verbally or in writing, will be given the opportunity to be heard at the above mentioned time and place. Any written response may be mailed to the address listed below, faxed to (269) 948-4820, or emailed to Barry County Planning Director James McManus at jmcmanus@barrycounty.org. The variance application is available for public inspection at the Barry County Planning Department, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, during the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Friday. Please call the Barry County Planning Department at (269) 945-1290 for further information. The County of Barry will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon ten (10) days notice to the County of Barry. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Barry by writing or calling the following: Michael Brown, County Administrator, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, (269) 945-1284. Pamela A. Palmer, Barry County Clerk 137437 FORECLOSURE NOTICE Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. Notice of foreclosure by advertisement. Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 01:00 PM, February 27, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. Default has a certain mortgage ma^ rrfan to; Fifth Third Mortgage,-.,Ml ,< LLC, Mortgagee, dated May 15, 2015, and recorded on June 5, 2015, as Document Number: 2015-005592, Barry County Records, said mortgage was assigned to Fifth Third Bank, National Association, successor to Fifth Third Bank, as successor by merger to Fifth Third Mortgage Company by an Assignment of Mortgage dated July 29, 2015 and recorded August 06, 2015 by Document Number: 2015­ 007715, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of One Hundred Ten Thousand Seven Hundred Seventy-Four and 29/100 ($110,774.29) including interest at the rate of 3.37500% per annum. Said premises are situated in the Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at the northwest corner of the east half of the southwest quarter of section 26, town 1 north, range 7 west; thence south along the west line of said east half of the southwest quarter, 773 feet; thence east at right angles to said west line 295 feet to the true place of beginning; thenc^ east 426 feet; thence north parallel with said west line of the east half of the southwest quarter a distance of 365 feet more or less to the centerline of Jones Road; thence northwesterly along said centerline 518 feet more or less to a point which lies east 295 feet from said west line of the east half of the southwest quarter; thence pouth parallel with said west line 659 feet more or less to the point of beginning. Subject to an easement over the northeasterly 33 feet thereof for public highway purposes. Commonly known as: 9350 E JONES RD, BELLEVUE, Ml 49021 If the property is eventually sold at foreclosure sale, the redemption period will be 6.00 months from the date of sale unless the property is abandoned or used for agricultural purposes. If the property is determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 and/or 600.3241a, the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of sale, or 15 days after statutory notice, whichever is later. If the property is presumed to be used for agricultural purposes prior to the date of the foreclosure sale pursuant to MCL 600.3240, the redemption period is 1 year. Pursuant to MCL 600.3278, if the property is sold at a foreclosure sale, the borrowers) will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: The foreclosing mortgagee can rescind the sale. In that event, your damages are, if any, limited solely to the return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. Dated: January 30, 2020 Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C. Attorneys for Fifth Third Bank, National Association, successor to Fifth Third Bank, as successor by merger to Fifth Third Mortgage Company 43252 Woodward Avenue, Suite 180, Bloomfield Hills, Ml 48302, (248) 335-9200 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Case No. 19MI00508-1 (01 -30)(02-20) 136513 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement. Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on March 05, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE: Mortgagor(s): Perry Ramsey and Diane Ramsey, husband and wife Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (“MERS”), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns Date of mortgage: June 22, 2007 Recorded on July 2, 2007, in Document No. 1182474, Foreclosing Assignee (if any): New Residential Mortgage, LLC Amount claimed to be due at the date hereof: Seventy-Nine Thousand Two Hundred Ninety-One and 32/100 Dollars ($79,291.32) Mortgaged premises: Situated in Barry County, and described as: A parcel of land in the West 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 26, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, described as: Commencing at a point in the center of the Highway 220 feet North of the intersection of M-79 with the Highway leading North in the Village of Quimby; thence East 175 feet; thence North 80 feet; thence West 175 feet; thence South 80 feet to the place of beginning. Commonly known as 2941 Dusty Lane, Hastings, Ml 49058 The redemption period will be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless abandoned under MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of such sale, or 15 days from the MCL 600.3241 a(b) notice, whichever is later; or unless extinguished pursuant to MCL 600.3238. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of Act 236 of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. New Residential Mortgage LLC Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman P.C. 23938 Research Dr, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, Ml 48335 248.539.7400 1409105 (02-06)(02-27) 136856 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely toieturn of thehidamount tendered at sale, plus interest. NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE BY ADVERTISEMENT: Notice is given tinder section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 P.M., on April 2, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE SALE: Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by John E. Mays, the mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for American Financial Resources, Inc., its successors and assigns, the original mortgagee, dated June 15, 2015, and recorded on June 24, 2015, as Instrument Number 2015-006224, in Barry County Records, Michigan and last assigned to American Financial Resources, Inc., a New Jersey Corporation, the foreclosing assignee, as documented by a Corporate Assignment of Mortgage dated January 27, 2020, and recorded on January 29, 2020, as Instrument Number 2020-001079, in Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due and owing as of the date of this Notice, the sum of One Hundred Seventeen Thousand Two Hundred Fifteen and 34/100 U.S. Dollars ($117,215.34). Said mortgaged premises is situated at 282 West Carlton Center Road, Hastings Michigan 49058 in the Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and is described as: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF CARLTON, COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHIGAN: COMMENCING AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF THE WEST 1/2 OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 18, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST THENCE NORTH 12 RODS 6 FEET THENCE WEST 15 RODS 11 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 12 RODS 6 FEET; THENCE EAST 15 RODS 11 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING The redemption period shall be 6 months (180 Days) from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Pursuant to Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, if the property is sold at foreclosure sale the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder under MCLA 600.3278 for damaging the property during the redemption period. ATTENTION HOMEOWNER: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. Dated: February 3, 2020 For More Information, please call: Matthew R. Reinhardt, Esq. Quintairos, Prieto, Wood & Boyer, P.A. Attorneys for Servicer 255 South Orange Avenue, Suite 900 Orlando, Florida 32801 (855) 287-0240 Matter No. 142885 (02-13)(03-05) 136938 Call 269-945-9554 any time lor Hastings Banner classified ads STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 19-28368-DE Estate of Yevone Ann Bergeron. Date of birth: 09/04/1964. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Yevone Anne Bergeron, died 06/12/2018. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Ronda Kay Edinger, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: February 12, 2020 Hertz Schram PC By: Steven P. Jenkins P59511 1760 S. Telegraph Road, Suite 300 Bloomfield Hills, Ml 48302 248-335-5000 Ronda Kay Edinger 9780 Maple Grove Road Nashville, Ml 49073 517-852-0813 137345 NOTICE TO ALL CREDITORS: The Grantor, Michael Alidor Campbell, Sr. (date of birth November 29, 1942), who lived at 9875 Guard Rd., Dowling, Ml 49050, died June 27, 2019. There is no personal representative of the Grantor’s estate to whom Letters of Administration have been issued. Creditors of the decedent are notified that ail claims against the Michael Alidor Campbell Living Trust, dated March 25, 2015, as amended, will be forever banned unless presented to Trustee, Alicia Kay Campbell, within four months after the date of publication. Notice is further given that the Trust will thereafter be assigned and distributed to the persons entitled to it. Dated: February 14, 2020 Attorney: John L. Teeples (P39341) Teeples Law, PLLC 25 Ionia Ave. SW - Ste. 230 Grand Rapids, Ml 49503 (616) 776-7200 Trustee: Alicia Kay Campbell 9875 Gurd Rd. Dowling, Ml 49050 (269)623-2802 137486 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement. Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on March 05, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE: Mortgagor(s): Tammy J. Bordeau, a single woman Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (“MERS”), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns Date of mortgage: July 6, 2017 Recorded on July 10, 2017, in Document No. 2017-006882, Foreclosing Assignee (if any): AmeriHome Mortgage Company, LLC Amount claimed to be due at the date hereof: One Hundred Thirty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Six and 52/100 Dollars ($133,406.52) Mortgaged premises: Situated in Barry County, and described as: Lot 110, Middleville Downs No. 5, Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Barry County Records. Commonly known as 210 Meadowlark Ct, Middleville, Ml 49333 The redemption period will be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless abandoned under MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of such sale, or 15 days from the MCL 600.3241 a(b) notice, whichever is later; or unless extinguished pursuant to MCL 600.3238. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of Act 236 of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for tli^ p&tty foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. AmeriHome Mortgage Company, LLC Mortgagee/ Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman PC. 23938 Research Dr, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, Ml 48335 248.539.7400 1409109 (02-06)(02-27) 136862 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicatureactof 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on March 12, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Joseph A. Guerin, a married man joined by Andrea J. Guerin, his wife Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/ or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Home Point Financial Corporation Date of Mortgage: October 27, 2017 Date of Mortgage Recording: November 3,2017 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $188,786.07 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: A parcel of land in the Southwest 1/4 of Section 36, Town 1 North, Range 8 Wes, described as being a parcel 205 feet East and West by 213 feet North and South in the Southwest corner of said Southwest 1/4. Common street address (if any): 15995 Waubascon Rd, Battle Creek, Ml 49014-4100 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: February 13, 2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248)642-2515 . 1409318 (02-13)(03-05) 137022 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on March 19, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagors): Thomas A Wagner and Bonny J Wagner, husband and wife Original Mortgagee: Ameriquest Mortgage Company Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Ameriquest Mortgage Securities Inc., Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2004-R11 under the pooling and servicing agreement dated as of December 1, 2004, without recourse Date of Mortgage: September 4,2004 Date of Mortgage Recording: September 23, 2004 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $101,111.84 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Assyria, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner, thence East 530 feet along the North line of said property; thence South 240 feet on a line with the West line of said property; thence West 530 feet on a line parallel with the North line of said property; thence North 240 feet on the West line of said property to the point of beginning of the following property: Commencing at the Southwest corner of the Northeast 1/4 (recorded as Southeast 1/4) of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 36, Town 1 North, Range 7 West, running thence East 16 and 2/100 chains, thence North 24 and 92/100 chains; thence West 16 and 2/100 chains; thence South 24 and 92/100 chains to the place of beginning. Common street address (if any): 10304 Huff Rd, Bellevue, Ml 49021-9602 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). if the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: February 20, 2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248)642-2515 1410331 (02-20)(03-12) 137554 NOTICE Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. Notice of foreclosure by advertisement. Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM on MARCH 19, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Clayton R. Boze and Norma J. Boze, husband and wife, to PNC Bank, National Association, Mortgagee, dated November 4,2013 and recorded November 14, 2013 in Instrument Number 2013-013614 Barry County Records, Michigan. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Five Hundred Forty-Seven and 63/100 Dollars ($97,547.63), including interest at 4.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 PM on MARCH 19,2020. Said premises are located in the Township of Barry, Barry County Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at the intersection of the west line of Section 6, Town 1 North, Range 9 West and the centerline of Delton Road in the NW 1/4 of said Section 6; Thence Easterly 400 feet along the centerline of Delton Road for the true place of beginning; thence South 645 feet parallel with the west line of said Section 6; thence East 330 feet at right angles; thence North 675 feet, more or less, parallel with said west line of Section 6, to the centerline of Delton Road; thence Westerly 335 feet, more or less, along said centerline to the place of beginning. 6981 Delton Road, Delton, Michigan 49046 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241 a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 20, 2020 File No. 20-001691 Firm Name: Orlans PC Firm Address: 1650 West Big Beaver Road, Troy Ml 48084 Firm Phone Number: (248) 502.1400 (02-20)(03-12) 137667 �Page 14 — Thursday, February 20, 2020 — The Hastings Banner County administrator’s work earns praise, new three-year pact Barry County Surveyor Brian Reynolds and Rosemary Anger, remonumentation grant administrator, updated commissioners on progress maintaining and updating the county’s monumentation and remonumentation plan. Rebecca Pierce Editor Barry County commissioners evaluated County Administrator Michael Brown and unanimously recommended approval during Tuesday’s committee meeting of his threeyear $124,105 contract, which will continue through Dec. 31,2022. Brown’s last contract, also for a three-year duration, was approved in 2017 for a yearly salary of $103,334. Details of the evaluation are filled with praise for Brown’s work and commendations for his steadfast professionalism. The point system for his evaluation allows for a perfect score of 420; Brown received 390. Several commissioners gave him the high­ est score of 5 in financial management, pro­ fessional development, communication, plan­ ning, prioritizing and delegating. One com­ missioner gave him a perfect |core across the board in every area, including leadership, motivation* employee relations, initiative, interaction and coordination with other units. Out of a total possible score of 60 from each commissioner, he received 58 or higher in all 12 categories from three members of the board. • Comments praised him as being “an excel­ lent consensus builder,” “very knowledgeable Interchange reconstruction planned near casino; Tribe offers $20M toward project Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Gun Lake Tribe of the Match-e-benash-she-wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians is teaming up with the Michigan Department of Transportation on proposed reconstruc­ tion of the interchange at U.S. 131 and M-179, near Gun Lake Casino. Tribal and MDOT officials unveiled plans for the project at a meeting last Thursday in the tribe’s administrative offices in Wayland Township. The tribe has committed $20 million in funding to the reconstruction, which would cover 95 percent of the project cost, said John Shagonaby, senior director for govern­ mental affairs for the Tribe. “We’ve been looking at this interchange and studied it operationally for some time. The existing configuration has proven to be obsolete at this point,” said Arthur Green, manager of MDOT’s Grand Region Transportation Services Center in Grand Rapids. The current interchange was built in 1959 and has had minor improvements since then, Green said. The new interchange would be rebuilt as a single-point urban interchange, similar to the one at U.S. 131 and 44th Street in Grand Rapids. It would feature dedicated left-turn and right-turn ramps onto M-179, as well as dedicated on-ramps from either direction. The ramps would be controlled by traffic signals at the interchange. “We’ve looked at several long-term alter­ natives; this was one of them,” Green said. “This one rose to the top of being more operationally beneficial, long-term, for the Whit Will The Cmhis AskT The Census asks for less personal information than most social media profiles. Items like name, gender, age, birthday, race/ethnicity, relationship to head-of-household, owner or renter and phone number are asked. Who G«ts Counted? Census forms are filled out by household. Everyone living at the address matters and everyone needs to be counted, including children. How Do I NIHt Out? It's easier than ever for 2020. You can respond online using the unique Census ID that will be mailed to you. If you don't have internet access, you can respond by phone or mail. How Is Census Information Used? Being counted helps communities create Barry County Administrator Michael Brown received high marks in his evaluation by county commissioners Tuesday. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) and proficient,” “multi-tasking at a new level,” “takes calls and texts after hours,” “works well with others.” Overall performance comments said: “In word and deed, Michael Brown inspires those around him to be better leaders. ... His positive impact in Barry County government continues to bring value to our taxpayers.” “We are very fortunate to have Michael as our county administrator.” “Michael is organized, prepared, thought­ ful, and an invaluable resource to Barry County. His experience and ability to think through difficult scenarios from multiple angles and navigate to the best decision that benefits everyone involved is amazing.” “Barry County is better because of Michael Brown.” In other business, the board recommended approval of: • A farmland preservation request by Regan and Alice Chase in Section 33 of Woodland Township under the Farmland and Open Space Preservation program, Public Act 116. • Grant increases totaling $16,000 for spe­ cialty courts. • The county’s remonumentation plan, as presented by county Surveyor Brian Reynolds and Rosemary Anger, remonumentation grant administrator. • An amended Barry County Freedom of Information Act summary of procedures and guidelines, which includes a cost itemization form and a statutory fee costs form. Trojan cheer finishes off Gold/Green Championship An architect’s rendering of the proposed interchange project. next 30 to 40 years.” Currently, the northbound ramp off U.S. 131 has one lane to turn right on M-179 toward the casino. Southbound traffic cur­ rently exits onto 12th Street, which runs parallel to the expressway. Drivers must turn left onto 12® Street and then make another left turn to get onto M-179 if they want to go to the casino. The planned interchange reconstruction comes as Gun Lake Casino is in the midst of a $100 million expansion of its facility. The expansion, which is slated for completion in 2021, will add another 72,000 square feet to its current 156,000-square-foot building, with additional restaurants, expansion of its Stage 131 entertainment center, and expand­ ed gaming areas. ' Tribe representatives approached MDOT a little more than two years ago with con­ cerns about the interchange and seeking improvements to the area in light of traffic around the casino. . “(The casino] totally exceeded our expec­ tations from Day 1,” Shagonaby said. “To be able to expand and do more things that we want, a safe bridge impart of the plan.” According to MDOT traffic figures, an average of 8,779 vehicle^ use M-179 in the area of the casino on a typical day. More than 4,400 vehicles use the southbound ramp off U.S. 131 and about 1,500 vehicles use the northbound off-ramp, according to traffic figures provided by MDQT. Preliminary work on the interchange reconstruction is |lated for later this year, with most of the work to take plac id 2021, Green said. “We’re g^ing to do our best to keep open during construction ” Shagonaby said. “It’ll take a little longer to build, but we want to have as minimum an impact as possible.” Key Dates Consul And flections ► MARCH 2020 Census data determines how many seats your state gets in Congress. Also, state and local officials use census data to draw boundaries for state and local legislative districts and school districts. Census invitations mailed to households >Reminder letters/postcards sent if no response received Census And Information Safety Language Assistance » Online form: 12 non-English languages r Paper form: English and Spanish * Telecommunications help for the deaf Language guides (video and print): 59 non-English languages, also American Sign Language, Braille and large print ; The Trojans are back on top. The Thomapple Kellogg varsity competi­ tive cheer team capped off an OK Gold/Green Conference champiorilhip season by winning the conference’s final meet on the home mats in Middleville Wednesday. It was a run of three straight victories for the TK ladies to close out the conference sea­ son, which included four competitions. The Trojans put up their highest overall score of the season by nearly 20 points in the finale. “My team did awesome, as was reflected in their scores,” TK head coach Ally Clouse said. “It was a great end to the conference season and motivator going into districts next week; Fun to watch my girls win the confer­ ence, but now onto districts.” TK will host its Division 2 District Tournament Saturday, Feb. 22, a tournament where the top four teams qualify for the regional round of the state tournament. TK was just off its highest score of the sea­ son in round one Wednesday, earning a score of 220.3. The Trojans added a 205.8 in round two after .a ten-point deduction and then topped the 300-p6iht mark for the first time this season in round three by earning a score of 303.70. The Trojans finished the night with a score of 729.80 points, ahead of Hamilton 700.40, Byron Center 667.50* forest Hills Eastern 663.80, Zeeland West 631.74, Zeeland East 611.10, Wayland 599.70 and Wyoming 508.20. / TK had the top score in every round qf thfe meet, with Hamilton second in each round. The Hawkeyes were second overall in the final conference standings as well. / Hamilton will be one of the Trojans’ top competitors for a regional qualifying spot next weekend. Your Success Is Our Business Get professional results and unbeatable value from the local specialists in business services! ■ Self-response deadline Business Cards • Signs, Banners & Posters • Printing & Copying • Laminating • Marketing Materials • Brochures & Handbooks • And Much More! >OTC8MBSRS1,2020 Let us customize your promotional materials here! ►MJLY2020 By law, individuaMevel census information cannot be shared. Also, census information is secure. The Census Bureau has strong cybersecurity measures in place to protect your information. 1 , The Thornapple Kellogg varsity competitive cheer team celebrates its OK Gold/ Green Conference Championship Wednesday on the mats in Middleville after winning the final conference jamboree with their highest Overall score of the season. ' Census Bureau delivers count to President ► MARCH 2021 States receive official count Contact Ty Greenfield, Steve Skedgell or Jennie Yonker 269-945-9554 �The Hastings Banner SPORTS SECTION — Thursday, February 20, 2020 — Page 1 WW The Hastings SPORTS SECTION TK takes down Saxons to earn date vs. No. 1 The Saxons’ Mason Denton holds Wayland’s Lucas DeWeerd on his back during the first period of their 130-pound match in the Division 2 District Semifinals at Hastings High School Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans won the Battle for Barry County in December, and returned to the Hastings mats to win the rematch under the spotlight Thursday night. The Thomapple Kellogg varsity wrestling team won ten of the 14 weight classes in its Division 2 District Final against host Hastings, scoring a 51-16 victory over the Saxons. Hastings scored three consecutive pins in the final three bouts to earn a one-point win over Wayland in the district semifinal, 39-38, and then took a 9-0 lead through two weight classes against the Trojans. TK won the next eight weight classes though to take a 42-9 lead and clinch the victory. “They’re tough. We knew it going in, obvi­ ously,” Hastings head coach Darrell Slaughter said. “I am pleased with going 1-1 today. They sucked it up in the end to get Wayland. I can live with that.” The win over Wayland was the 25th of the season for the Saxons. Hastings heavyweight Jackson Duobis tries to escape the grasp of Thornapple Kellogg’s Carter West during the first period of their 285-pound match in the Division 2 District Final at Hastings High School Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Wayland had a 38-21 lead in the semifinal match with three weight classes to go. Hastings had gotten its first 21 points from pins by Payton Miller at 152 pounds, Tyler Dull at 160, Jackson Dubois at 215, and a 7-6 win by Shane Dillon at 112 pounds, but a few other matches didn’t got the way the Saxons were hoping for. Still, they were in striking distance with Mason Denton, Robby Slaughter and Gabe ^Tek on scheduled to wrestle yet against the s Wildcats. “We knew we had a shot, as long as we didn’t give up the pin at 125, then I knew we’d have a shot,” coach Slaughter said. Denton built a 9-2 lead in the 130-pound match against Wayland’s Lucas DeWeerd, and pinned him with ten seconds to go in the second period. Robby Slaughter followed that up by pining Mason Jozeska 21 seconds into the 135-pound match, leaving things up to the senior captain Gabe Trick. Trick put Wayland’s Dustin Loomans on his back 31 seconds into the 140-pound match to give the Saxons another shot at the TK grapplers. Heavyweights got the momentum rolling for TK in the district final with Hastings, with Adam Bush (171 pounds), Jake Middleton (189), Noah Rosenberg (215) and Carter West (285) each scoring a pin. Bush, one of three seniors in the line-up for the Trojans, opened the scoring for his team by sticking Carter Smith with 12 seconds remaining in the first period. “I went out there. I was feeling good. I cut most of the day, so I wasn’t in tip-top shape, but I was still feeling pretty good,” Bush said. “I was feeling quite confident about it.” Bush said it was a little bit of a tough match emotionally for him, calling Smith one of his best “Hastings friends.” The Thornapple Kellogg varsity wrestling team celebrates with its district championship trophy after a 51-16 win over the host Middleton and Rosenberg each scored pins Saxons in the Division 2 District Final at Hastings High School Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) about half a minute into the second period, against the Saxons’ Elias Sanchez and Tyler Oliver, and then West managed to secure the pin on Jackson Dubois just before the horn sounded at the end of the first period in the heavyweight match. TK also got pins from Ashton Corson and Z<fck Gibson nf the district final,, and other victories from Hunter Pitsch, Jackson Curtis, Kyron Zoet and Matthew Middleton. Pitsch wrestled the 103-pound match, scoring a 6-0 win over Hastings’ Zach Chipman, and Corson bumped up to 112 to pin the Saxons’ Shane Dillon. “Our lightweights are tough, but our guys behind them are just as tough. We know we have a few plays in there and a few kids like Hunter Pitsch, who has been in and out of the line-up. We knew that he was ready to step in and take that roll at 103,” TK head coach Dayne Fletke said, “ and then we could bump Ashton up, and Zack up, and pretty much everybody to 130. “I was pretty proud of how all the boys wrestled. They wrestled tough and went out and did what they were supposed to do.” A season ago, the Trojans took a solid vic­ tory over the Saxons in their December meet­ up only to lose out to Hastings in the district tournament. TK head coach Dayne Fletke said that was nice motivation in the wrestling room, especially for his juniors and seniors, to look ahead rather than behind. “I really wanted this one back,” Bush said. “We all fought, everybody. We prepared for it all week. We knew what was coming.” The Trojans were scheduled to take on top­ ranked Lowell in the Division 2 Regional Semifinals in Middleville last night, with Holland and Byron Center squaring off in the other semifinal match-up at TKHS. Lions make it back-to-back district championships Brett Bremer Sports Editor The quality of the Lions’ wrestlers bested the quantity of the Fulton roster Thursday. Maple Valley’s varsity wrestling team won its second consecutive district championship by outscoring Fulton 38-24 in the Division 4 District Final hosted by Fulton High School. Jordan Thornton got the Lions off to a great start in the district final, pulling out a 4-3 win over Fulton’s Austin Lamkin in the 119-pound match. Thornton was one of just eight Maple Valley wrestlers to take the mat in the dual. Fulton had ten wrestlers able to compete, but in the seven weight classes that were contest­ ed, the Lions won six. “He wrestled super well and got us started out well,” Lion head coach Tony Wawiemia said. Thornton got a first-period take down and a penalty point to hold a 3-0 lead after one. Lamkin evened the match at 3-3, turning Thornton to his back in the second period after the Lion 119-pounder chose the bottom position to open the period. While Thornton was never able to escape Lamkin’s grasp in that second period, Thornton completed a two-minute ride of his Fulton foe in the third period while adding another penalty point for an illegal finger grab that proved the differ­ ence in the match. Fulton would lead the match 18-8 at the halfway point, getting two forfeit wins and a pin from Patrie Al wood in the 152-pound match against the Lions’ Cody Taylor. The Lions got their other five points in the first half of the dual thanks to Jesse Brumm’s 17-1 technical fall over Austio Mcintyre. Dillon Jorgensen and AJ Raymond started the Lions climb back in front, both scoring pins a minute and a half into their 160-pound and 171-pound matches. Raymond’s pin put the Lions in front 20-18. Wawiernia said those two guys have been working really hard with assistant coach Nick Martin in the practice room lately. The only points the Fulton team got the rest of the way came from a forfeit win at heavy- weight. The Lions added pins from David Hosack-Frizzell at 215 pounds and Matthew Slaght at 112 to go along with Gage Ertman’s forfeit win at 103 pounds. Both teams had a void in the line-up at 130 pounds, 135 and 189. Saranac only had four wrestlers to face the Lions in the district semifinal, where the Lions scored a 48-12 win. The Lions took on two of the four, with Saranac’s only points coming from a pair of forfeit wins. Brumm and Hosack-Frizzell scored pins for the Lions. Wawiemia was really happy for his guys, and happy to be a part of the district champi­ onship this season after missing last year’s win. He’ll task fellow coach Lane Brumm once again with taking care of the task of mapping out the match-ups for the upcoming regional round of the state tournament. The Lions were scheduled to go to Carson City-Crystal for their Division 4 Team Regional Tournament last night. Delton Kellogg girls still chasing winning record The Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ basketball team drew as bye for the opening round of the 2020 postseason. District information was released Sunday and the Panthers will open their Division 3 District Tournament at Kalamazoo Christian in the semifinals March 4 against the winner of an opening round match-up between Hackett Catholic Prep and Potterville. The Delton Kellogg girls are 8-9 overall this season with three games to play in the regular season. The Panthers host Lawton Friday night for a Southwestern Athletic Conference Valley Division bailgame, host Lakewood for a non-conference clash Tuesday on Senior Night, and then finish the regular season with a SAC Valley contest at GalesburgAugusta Feb. 28. The DK girls will need to win both SAC Valley ballgames left on the schedule to finish at .500 in the conference this winter. The Panthers did win their first match-ups of the season with the Blue Devils and Rams. Constantine dropped the DK girls to 4-6 in Valley play with a 52-47 win at Constantine High School last Thursday. The Falcons scored 13 points off of 23 Delton Kellogg turnovers, and added ten points off 19 offensive rebounds. “Those two stats have just been a back-breaker for us all season long,” Delton Kellogg head coach Mike Mohn said. “When we take care of them, we are usually success­ ful. When we don’t, we aren’t.” Erin Kapteyn led the DK girls with 14 points, nine rebounds and four steals. Mary Whitmore had 12 points, five rebounds, two steals and an assist, and Katie Tobias finished with four points, ten rebounds, three steals and an assist. Abbie Bever chipped in nine points in the loss. There was some good and some bad putting the ball up to the hoop. The DK girls were just 29 percent from the floor, but hit 13-of-16 free throws for one of their best performances of the season at the line. �Page 2 — Thursday, February 20, 2020 — The Hastings Banner SPORTS SECTION TK boys look to take Gold/Green lead into tourney program as his senior season winds down. He things rolling. The talk of chasing a confer­ Brett Bremer rolled a 300-game at Spectrum Lanes in prac­ ence championship really heated up as the TK Sports Editor The Thornapple Kellogg varsity boys’ tice on Sunday. He has averaged right around boys won eight straight duals following that first loss to Zeeland. bowling team added to its OK Gold/Green 220 this season. “It has been awesome. This is the best sea­ VanPolen said he feels like he has been Conference lead with a 22.5-7.5 victory over Unity Christian at Hastings Bowl Tuesday son we have ever had, or at least in my four more consistent in picking up spares and hit­ years on the team. We’re 15-2 after the win ting his mark this winter, and has really seen afternoon. big improvements from last year form Hicswa The Trojans improved to 15-2 in confer­ tonight,” VanPolen said. He said his team just hasn’t been at its very and Michael Willshire and good strides from ence match-ups with the win as they try to fend off Byron Center, Zeeland East and best against Zeeland in their two conference freshmen Ethan Kriekaard and Wyatt Jacobson Unity Christian for the top spot as the confer­ meetings, and Zeeland has rolled well. The too. The Unity Christian girls swept their two ence season nears its conclusion. The TK TK boys lost to the Zeeland boys in the sec­ teams were set to close out conference duals ond dual of the season, and then really got Baker games with TK Tuesday. The Trojan against Forest Hills Eastern at Northfield Lanes last night, and then the OK Green/Gold gets together for its conference tournament Saturday at Park Center Lanes. The TK ladies are in fifth place in the tenteam OK Gold/Green Conference standings heading into this week’s action, just a few points behind the third-place Wayland girls who are the only team from the OK Gold Conference in front of the Trojans to this point. Unity Christian’s girls came into the night trailing only league-leading Zeeland East in the Gold/Green standings, and scored a 19-11 win over the TK ladies. The TK boys got a pair of match points each from Wyatt Jacobson, Michael Willshire and Trevor VanPolen in the two regular games, while while winning all ten team points in the two regular games. Willshire rolled games of 225 and 233, VanPolen scored a 216 and a 234, and Jacobson had games of 235 and 206. Nate Palmer earned half a team point for TK with his 191 in the second regu­ lar game. The two teams split the two Baker contests, with the Trojans rolling a 245 in the second to win the overall Baker pin count too. “We’ve got seven really good guys, and then the other five that I have are really improving,” TK head coach Cheryl Cooper said. “Mostly they’re freshmen, so we’re working on bringing them along because we’re losing the three seniors. They’re improving a lot. I am really happy with how they are doing.” The Trojan boys’ team’s three seniors this season are VanPolen, Colton Hicswa and Connor Wilson. Hicswa rolled a 187 in the first regular game Tuesday and Wilson tallied a 139 in the second. Cooper said she has four or five guys fighting for a top 15 finish in the Green/Gold standings. Thomapple Kellogg’s Nate Palmer makes his approach during the Trojan boys’ VanPolen is setting up a signing day with victory over visiting Unity Christian Tuesday at Hastings Bowl. (Photo by Brett Bremer) the Davenport University Men’s Bowling team won the first regular game 827 to 725, getting match points from Faith Foster, Dalace Jousma and Carly Snyder. Snyder rolled a 215 in that opening regular game, Jousma a 188 and Foster a 140. TK also got a 169 from Cayleigh Willard in that first regular game, and Willard upped her total to 193 to win a match point in the second regular game. Snyder took a second match point with a 159 in game two. Scoring in the 700s in a game has been good for the TK ladies, and they’ve been in the low 700s or high 600s throughout much of the season, so coach Cooper was pretty pleased with that 827 from her girls. “They have been doing better the last half of the season,” Cooper said. “They struggled a little bit the first half,” coach Cooper said. “I see the majority of them starting to throw better balls and get better pin counts. They need work on their spares a little more, but their coming along with all of that. They’re doing great. They won the last four or five matches before this one. They’ve been doing awesome.” Thornapple Kellogg’s Carly Snyder takes a turn during the Trojans’ OK Gold/Green dual with visiting Unity Christian at Hastings Bowl Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) BCCS boys closing in on a conference championship Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Eagles are flying high. The Barry County Christian School varsity boys’ basketball team improved to 8-1 in the Great Lakes 6 Conference with a 71-50 victo­ ry over Cedar Springs Creative Technologies Academy (CTA) Tuesday in Hastings. The two teams entered the evening each with just one conference defeat. The Eagles will look to finish off a conference champion­ ship run when it travels to Cedar Springs to take on the CTA Chargers one more time Monday evening. Jakob O’Dell poured in 30 points to lead BCCS to the victory Tuesday. He hit three three-pointers in the first half, but that allowed the Eagles to keep pace with the Chargers. BCCS led 31-28 at the half before outscoring the Chargers 40-23 22 over the final two quar- BCCS’s Lucas Adair fires up a shot from the right corner during his team’s victory over Creative Tech Tuesday at the Barry County Christian School gymnasium. (Photo by Perry Hardin) ters. “We play a motion offense, and it is very hard to guard,” BCCS first-year head coach Ralph Jones said. “It is just reading and react­ ing to what the defense is doing. The team does a really good job of swinging the ball, and Jakob does a really good job of looking to score. He also does a good job of finding open teammates.” Lucas Adair finished with 14 points for the Eagles, hitting two threes in the fourth quar­ ter. Dylan Steeby had eight points and Trevor Halder six. The real success Tuesday started on the defensive end for the Eagles though. “The defense stepped up a lot,” Jones said. “We forced a lot of turnovers. Before they would play safe. Yesterday they did very well playing aggressive on defense. We play a 1-3-1 zone that works well, especially on the high school level. It’s a unique defense. It kind of shuts down everything.” He was happy to see his guys bounce back with their heads up after a tough non-conference loss, 77-60, against Wellspring Prep Monday evening. Jones said that is something he has been working on with his boys both on and off the court this winter, responding well when things may not be going their way. Luke Hubbard and Ivan Winters scored 16 points each for CTA in the defeat. Landon Winters chipped in 11 points. The Eagles’ Hunter attempt thwarted from Tech’s John Wartz in night. (Photo by Perry Brown has a shot behind by Creative the paint Tuesday Hardin) Grizzle ties it twice, but Falcons prevail in second overtime Senior center Dawson Grizzle did all he could to get the Panthers a second win over Constantine this season. It wasn’t quite enough though as the Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball team fell 55-47 at Constantine in double overtime last Thursday in Southwestern Athletic Conference Valley Division play. Grizzle hit a three from near half-court to tie the game and send it into the first over­ time session, and then hit two free throws at Barry County Christian Schools’ Trevor Halder flies through the lane to get a shot off against Creative Technologies Tuesday in Hastings. (Photo by Perry Hardin) the end of the first four-minute overtime period to tie the game again. He finished the night with 20 points and ten rebounds. “Dawson has been playing very well, he has great energy and effort and it shows with the numbers he is putting up,” DK head coach Jason Howland said. “Unfortunately, we had an eight-point lead that we let go at the end of the game because of mental mis­ takes and not taking care of the ball when it was needed. The game should of never made it into overtime, we have had trouble with turnovers and it cost us another game.” Tommy Sheldon finished with nine points and six boards in the loss for DK. Blake Thomas had seven points. The Panthers return to SAC Valley action at home against Lawton Friday. Dawson Grizzle lead scoring with 20 along with 10 rebounds, Tommy Sheldon 9 with 6 rebounds, Blake Thomas 7. Call 269-945-9554 any time for Hastngs Banner classified ads �The Hastings Banner SPORTS SECTION — Thursday, February 20, 2020 — Page 3 Saxon break tie with Marshall by winning extra Baker game Brett Bremer Sports Editor A pair of varsity bowling teams can’t be much more evenly matched than the Saxons and Red Hawks have been so far this season. The Hastings varsity boys’ bowling team avenged a January loss to the Marshall boys with a 16-15 win at Hastings Bowl Tuesday afternoon, winning an extra Baker game 193­ 181 after nudging in front of the Red Hawks halfway through the extra contest. Marshall took a 16-14 win in the first lnterstate-8 Athletic Conference match-up between the two boys’ teams this season. The Hastings girls took their second victory of the season over the Red Hawks, 22-8 Tuesday. It has been a fun winter getting to compete in the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference for the Saxons this winter, after missing out on last year’s conference competition. “We have so many more kids to work with. We have a great group of parents and a great group of coaches. For me, I think we’re hav- Hastings senior Abby Zull sends a shot down the alley during her team’s interstate-8 Athletic Conference victory over visiting Marshall at Hastings Bowl Tuesday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Saxons’ Ashland Hoyt preps for a shot during her team’s win over Marshall in an Interstate-8 Athletic Conference dual at Hastings Bowl Tuesday: (Photo by Brett Bremer) ing a lot more fun this year. It is not as stress­ ful, and we are learning that bowling is fun,” Hastings head coach Deanna Rhodes said. Cameron Eaton won a pair of match points for the Saxon boys in the regular games, and John Hinkle, Austin Fenstemaker and Kyler Madden took one each. Hinkle had a highgame of 198. The Hastings boys took the two Baker games to open the afternoon, rolling scores of 191 and 215. The Red Hawks took the two regular matches. The Saxon girls’ team got two match points each from Connie Ricketts and Andrea Rhodes, while Ashland Hoyt and Abby Zull won one each. Hoyt picked up her team-point with a 197 in the Opening regular gmiie.Ricketts had scores of 162 and 164 to take her two points. Ricketts and Zull are a pair of seniors in their first varsity bowling seasons. The Saxons won both regular games, after splitting the two Baker match-ups with the Marshall girls. Hastings took the two team points for the overall Baker pin-count. Neither Hastings or Marshall had school Tuesday because of icy morning weather. “We were praying that they were going to come up here because I knew this was going to be a good night for my kids,” coach Rhodes said. Hastings was scheduled to host a make-up dual with Lumen Christi yesterday and will be in action at Midway Lanes to face Coldwater this afternoon to close out the conference duals. The Interstate-8 Athletic Conference Tournament will be held at M-66 Bowl Saturday. The Saxons’ Gage Richmond fires his ball down the lane during the Saxons’ Baker games against the visiting Marshall Red Hawks Tuesday at Hastings Bowl. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Barracudas knock off Muskegon in Tier II dual The Saxons’ John Hinkle gets a fist bump after rolling a strike in the ninth frame of the second game of his series against the Marshair boys Tuesday at Hastings Bowl. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Barry County Barracudas varsity boys’ swimming and diving team picked up a big OK Rainbow Conference Tier II win at the Community Education and Recreation Center in Hastings Thursday, knocking off the Muskegon/Mona Shores Frogmen 93-74. Junior Sam Randall had a fine meet for the Barracudas, winning the 200-yard free­ style in 1 minute 59.42 seconds and the 100*‘yard freestyle in 52.68 seconds. The lone relay _ win for the Barracudas was in the 200-yard .freestyle relay, where the . team of Britton Stevens, Jacob Pykosz, Jack Kensington and Andrew Tuokkola finished in 1:47.40. Kensington added a win in the next event, finishing the 100-yard backstroke in 1:08.71. Gram Price took the diving competition for Barry County with a score of 191.90 points. Teammate Dane Barnes was right behind in second place with a score of 185.15. The Barracudas swim at home against Wayland this evening. Hastings boys find a spark to win at Lakewood Brett Bremer sandwiched a non-conference win at Sports Editor Lakewood High School Saturday between a The Hastings varsity boys’ basketball team pair of tough Interstate-8 Athletic Conference defeats in the past week. The Saxons had their lead up to as many as 20 points in the third quarter before fending off the Vikings for a 52-47 win in the end. Lakewood led the ballgame 10-7 after one quarter, with the Saxons starting slow after an up and down ballgame the night before against Harper Creek. It took a half-court three from Carter Cappon at the buzzer to have the Saxons that close to the Vikings at the end of one quarter. Hastings head coach Rich Long said that shot from where the half-court line met the left sideline sparked his guys to attention. Braden Vertalka had a great second and third quarter to keep things rolling for the Saxons, and Hastings got another spark from a back-door dunk by Kirby Beck. Vertalka, Beck and Cappon finished with 11 points each for the Saxons. Evan Eastman had eight points and seven rebounds, and Carter Hewitt chipped in seven points, six rebounds and five assists. “We let our guard down and let Lakewood make a late run at us closing the gap but we were able to hold them off,” Long said. The Vikings got 18 points from Bryant Makley and 14 from Jacob Elenbaas in the loss. They combined for 16 in the fourth quar­ ter. Brent Sweet finished with ten points, scoring seven in the final frame. Hastings had a seven-point lead in the third quarter Friday at Hastings High School, but Harper Creek surged for its second close vic­ tory over the Saxons this season - 54-52. “Harper Creek was a battle from the start,” Long said. “We played well, but missed a ton of free throws. Their style of play is to make the game as chaotic and full of fouls as possi­ ble, hoping that they won’t get called or you will miss from the line.” Tlie Saxons were just 12-of-20 at the free throw line, a number that was a bit better than the Beavers’ 10-of-21 tally, but still not good. The chaos continued right to the final buzz­ er. The SaXons couldn’t get a couple contested shots to fall around the basket with half a minute to go, with the Beavers finally secur­ ing a rebound and then setting up an offensive play with 16.6 seconds to go. Beaver guard Chris Castle flipped the ball to teammate Rae’Quan Punches at the top of the key and proceeded to keep fading left- ip knock Hewitt off of Punches. Castle’s questionable screen gave Punches just enough space to get the go-ahead shot up over Cappon at the free throw line. Eastman put the Saxons up 52-50 at the free throw line with 1:44 to go, but Flinches scored the game’s last four points and finished with a team-high 15 points. Hastings had led by six throughout much of the fourth quarter. Eastman had 16 points and 13 rebounds for the Saxons in the loss. Beck had 13 points and six boards, as well as three assists. Cappon and Hewitt had eight points each. Ben Shafer added 13 points for the Beavers and Wyatt Irons 12. Castle had a game-high six assists. The Saxons were downed 62-45 by visiting Parma Western in another Interstate-8 Athletic Conference ballgame Tuesday. The Saxons are now 6-10 overall this sea­ son and 3-8 in the 1-8. “Parma is playing very well, and early foul trouble for Eastman put us down a significant player,” Long said. “Eastman was never really able to get in the flow. We lost 62-45 but it was a closer game than that down the stretch.” Beck had 17 points in the loss to the Panthers. Hastings will play host to Jackson Northwest Friday and then hit the road to take on Pennfield Tuesday. SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE Comp^S^leat: THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20 3:30 PM Boys Varsity Bowling - Coldwater High Schoo! 3: 30 PM Girls Varsity Bowling - Coldwater High School 4: 30 PM Boys Middle School Wrestling- Pennfield Middle School 5: 30 PM Boys Freshman Basketball - Northwest High School 5: 30 PM Girls Freshman Basketball - Northwest High School 6: 00 PM Boys Varsity Swimming - Wayland Union High School 7: 00 PM Boys Junior Varsity Basketball - Northwest High School 7:00 PM Girls Junior Varsity Basketball - Northwest High School Away Away Home Away Home Home Away Home FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21 6:00 PM Girls Var. Basketball - Northwest HS Scholar Athlete Night Home 7: 30 PM Boys Var. Basketball - Northwest HS Scholar Athlete Night Home %"UU7�PU�7UPP7�P SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22 9:00 AM Boys MS Wrestling Galesburg Invite @ Galesburg Augusta HS 1:00 PM Boys Varsity Bowling I-8 Conference Finals @ M-66 Bowl 1:00 PM Girls Varsity Bowling I-8 Conference Finals @ M-66 Bowl 4:00 PM Girls Varsity Cheerleading MHSAA Regionals @ MTK Away Away Away Away Times and dates subject to change Hastings junior center Evan Eastman tries to work his way around a Harper Creek defender during their Interstate-8 Athletic Conference match-up at Hastings High School Friday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) The Saxons’ Kirby Beck goes up and under a Harper Creek defender to get a shot off during the second half of their 1-8 contest Friday at Hastings High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) | j j j MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24 4:30 PM Girls 7th B Basketball - Parma Western 4: 30 PM Girls Sth B Basketball - Parma Western 5: 30 PM Girls 8th A Basketball - Parma Western 5:30 PM Girls 7th A Basketball - Parma Western TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25 3:30 PM Boys Varsity Bowling - Ionia High School j 3: 30 PM Girls Varsity Bowling - Ionia High School 4: 00 PM Boys Freshman Basketball - Pennfield Middle School 4: 00 PM Girls Freshman Basketball - Pennfield HighSchool 5: 30 PM Boys Junior Varsity Basketbail ■ Pennfield HighSchool 5:30 PM Girls Junior Varsity Basketball - Pennfield High School j 7:00 PM Boys Varsity Basketball - Pennfield High School 7:00 PM Girls Varsity Basketball - Pennfield HS Senior/Parents Night WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 26 4:30 PM Girls 7th B Basketball - Harper Creek MS 4: 30 PM Girls 8th B Basketball - Harper Creek MS 5: 30 PM Gills 8th A Basketball - Harper Creek MS 5:30 PM Girls 7th A Basketball ~ Harper Creek MS 24 HOUR 384 Haynes Loop Dr., Hastings TOWING Away Home Home Away Home Home Away Home Away Home Away Home Home Away Away Home 269-945-7777 J CWObajLiiSiON • AUTO BODY REPAIR • MECHANICAL REPAIR • TIRE SALES • �Page 4 — Thursday, February 20, 2020 — The Hastings Banner SPORTS SECTION Saxons and Vikings pleased with district tune-up Brett Bremer Sports Editor An opportunity to get back out on the mat Friday night was a godsend for the Lakewood and Hastings varsity competitive cheer teams. The Lakewood girls won the small school championship, with the day’s highest point total overall, and the Saxons won the big school championship Friday at the Vikings’ Valentine’s CheerFest 2020 at Lakewbod High School. Neither team was especially pleased with its performance at its conference tournament last Wednesday. The Lakewood ladies still captured their 11th consecutive conference championship by finishing off an undefeated Greater Lansing Activities Conference season at the league finale at Lakewood High School. The Saxons fell behind Pennfield into second place at the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference finale at Jackson Northwest. Both teams have been working in the final week of the regular season to replace a senior who had been a part of all three rounds all season long. Both teams are hoping to make a run at a district championship Saturday, the Division 2 Saxons in Middleville and the Division 3 Vikings in Frankenmuth. And both squads are planning on that just being the start of a postseason run. Lakewood is looking to get back to the Division 3 State Finals after missing out on a trip to the DeltaPlex in 2019. Viking senior flyer Grace Roth is one of a couple Lakewood teammates who were a part of state finals teams as freshmen and sopho­ mores, looking to end their senior season on a high. “I am really proud of how we did today. I am really happy. I am just sad it is over,” Roth said after her final home varsity cheer meet Friday.4 4 We are going to keep going. We have districts and regionals. We are going to kill it hoping to get to state finals again this year. We are really excited. We are really looking for­ ward to postseason. “We definitely really have to focus on cleaning up our back tucks in round two and just being really, really excited in all of our rounds. We need to put all of our energy into them and put all of our passion out on the mat.” Back tucks in round two are practically a necessity for high enough scores to continue advancing through the postseason. Curston Hiner is stepping in to fill the hole in round two for the Lake wood ladies, and the Saxons’ Ruby Barber threw her back tuck in round two of a competition for the first time Friday. “It was the first meet since we changed everything because of losing the one senior,” Lakewood head coach Kim Martin said of Wednesday’s GLAC finale. “I think maybe there were some nerves. Our round two was rough on Wednesday, really rough. We had one girl put a slight hand down and then I had one tuck that had to put two hands down. But one of my girls landed that hadn’t been land­ ing so that was a positive. So I think the con­ fidence is getting there.” The Hastings stunt groups come together into one big formation during the Saxons’ round three performance Friday at the Lakewood Valentine’s Cheerfest 2020. The Saxons won the large school championship at the five-team meet Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings cheerleaders Julieann Meeker and Kierstyn Downs perform during round two Friday at the Lakewood Valentine’s Cheerfest 2020. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lakewood also had sophomore flyer Jessy Weber filling in as a base in round three and senior Sam Wolf filling the opening in round one. Lakewood had its highest scoring total of the season overall Friday, matching its top score in round one at 233.60, and bumping up its top round two and three totals by a point or two. Lake wood scored 218.06 points in round two and 316.10 in round three. The Vikings had their highest point total of the season by more than four points, finishing at 767.76 to win the small school division. Michigan Center was second in the division with a score of 740.58 Hastings had an overall score of 727.76 to win the big school division, ahead of Hamilton 717.68 and Lowell 697.64. The Saxons had a score of 226.10 in round one, 204.86 in round two after an eight-point deduction, and a score of 296.80 in round three. Hastings head coach Linsey Jacinto was proud of the work her girls did in all three rounds, saying anytime you have a bad day and score 727 points it is really a good day. A round three score of 308 by Hamilton was the best in the big school division, and the second best overall of the day, but Hastings had a more than 20-point lead on the Hawkeyes heading into that final round. The Saxons’ total score was more than 25 points better than the Hastings girls scored two days earlier at the 1-8 Championship. “We have had a couple rough weeks, but they have come back much stronger,” Jacinto said. “We actually redid all three rounds last night, because we had an injury. One of our seniors had to come out of all three rounds. We re-choreographed everything and then came back and they just did a great job. We are pleased, and now we have fixed some of our issues and we’re back to ready to go.” Pennfield clinched the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference title by winning the conference championship meet with 711.58 points Wednesday in Jackson. Hastings was second with a score of 702.34, ahead of Parma Western 650.00, Lumen Christi 638.76, Jackson Northwest 636.70 and Harper Creek 566.30. Hastings had the best round three score of the meet at 290.90, a point and a half better than Pennfield in the final round. The Saxons opened the meet with a 215.20 in round two and scored 196.26 points in round two after an eight-point deduction. Pennfield had scores of 218.0 in round one, 204.18 in round two and 289.4 in round three. Lakewood senior Grace Roth preps for a jump during her team’s round two routine Friday at the Lakewood Valentine’s Cheerfest. (Photo by Brett Bremer) DK and Valley get good group through to D4 regional tourney Brett Bremer Sports Editor A couple freshmen go their first individual state tournament started off right, and a cou­ ple of returning state qualifiers took district championships for the Delton Kellogg varsity wrestling team Saturday. Sophomore Caden Ferris and senior Hunter Belew each won district championships for Delton at the Division 4 Individual District Tournament hosted by Bloomingdale. They’ll head to Carson City-Crystal this Saturday for their Division 4 Individual Regional Tournament along with freshmen teammates Estevan Rodriguez (119 pounds) and Vinnie Quick (135) who placed fourth in their respec­ tive weight classes. Maple Valley got five guys through the district tournament as well, with Gage Ertman (103 pounds), Jesse Brumm (130) and David Hosack-Frizzell (189) winning flight champi­ onships, and Matthew Slaght (112) and AJ Raymond (171) each finishing as the district runner-up. Ferris, Brumm and Slaght were all state medalists a year ago, and Belew was a state qualifier in 2019. “Belew and Caden were the favorites in their respective weight classes.” Delton Kellogg head coach Brett Bissett said. “Each of them had a number four-ranked wrestler in their brackets, and each of them pinned those wrestlers. Belew wrestled a fantastic match in his championship match, and seems to be peaking at the right time.” Belew pinned the Lions’ Raymond in the 171-pound championship match, 51 seconds into the second period, after opening the tour­ nament with a quick pin of teammate Alan Rogers and a 17-2 technical fall against Climax-Scotts/Martin’s James Hildebrand in the semifinals. Ferris never got out of the first period in any of his 215-pound matches. He stuck Carson City-Crystal’s Ryan Holland 1:07 into their championship match after first-period pins of Ravenna’s Steven Cook and Bloomingdale’s Ethan Zuck. “Both boys will see great competition at the regional” Bissett said. “I believe all four qual­ ifiers out of the 171 bracket will be placers at the state tournament as well as the 215-pound bracket holding the top two guys in the divi­ sion: Caden and Camden Orr of New Lothrop ” Brumm, a two-time state medalist for the Maple Valley team, ran his season record to 40-1 with his three wins Saturday. He topped Hesperia’s Mack Baird 3-1 in their 130-pound championship match. He bested Baird’s Hesperia teammate River Roberson 8-1 in the semifinals after a quick pin of Saranac’s Preston Dean to open the tournament. Ertman won his championship for the Lions by pinning Kent City’s Zane Kik 1:38 into their 103-pound final. Hosack-Frizzell won the 189-pound championship with an 11-4 decision over Bloomingdale’s Garrett Grover. Raymond worked his way to his runner-up finish at 171 pounds by scoring an 11-2 major decision over Ravenna’s Kiah Shull in the 171-pound quarterfinals, and then edged Carson City-Crystal’s Nash Akin 3-1 in the semifinals to earn his shot at Belew in the final. Slaght, scored a pin and a major decision on his way to the 112-pound final for the Lions where he was bested by Hesperia’s Aydan Sturtevant-Roesly 9-4. “Hard to know what to expect with so many freshman, but Vinnie Quick wrestled the best we’ve seen him all season and ended up with a big win in the blood round to punch his ticket to regionals,” Bissett said. Quick had to fight all the way through the 135-pound consolation bracket after a quar­ terfinal loss to Kent City’s Bradley Brooks. Quick pinned teammate Bow Arms in the first round of consolation and then score da 9-2 win over Gobles’ Jackson Rumery in the blood round to secure his district medal. Quick met up with Brooks again in the thirdplace match and fell in 4:41. “We picked up Estevan Rodriguez as a transfer a couple weeks ago and the (Feb. 8) SAC tournament was the only time we got to see him in action,” Bissett said. “The week­ end was a chance to see some more of what he brings to the table and he proved he’s an asset to our line up by qualifying to the regional as a freshman.” Rodriguez scored his two victories by pin at the tournament, opening up by sticking Gobles’ Chris Ruiz in the quarterfinals and then securing his regional spot with a quick pin of Ravenna’s Ben Areepongsa in the con­ solation semifinals. Kent City’s Jayden Williams pinned Rodriguez a minute and a half into their semifinal match. At the end of the day, in the match for third at 119 pounds, Rodriguez was bested 10-4 by Holton’s Graham Resterhouse. Delton Kellogg’s team season is through. The Panthers were bested 47-36 by ClimaxScotts/Martin in the Division 4 Team District Final at Bloomingdale last Thursday. Climax-Scotts/Martin continued to show off its season gains at the team district tourna­ ment. Delton Kellogg bested the CSM grapplers by 30 points a month ago in a Southwestern Athletic Conference dual, but the CSM team finished sixth (a couple spots ahead of DK) at the SAC Tournament before taking the district victory last week. Ferris and Arms had pins for the DK team in the loss to CSM in the district final, with The Lakewood varsity competitive cheer team celebrates with its Greater Lansing Activities Conference trophy after finishing off another undefeated GLAC season by winning the league finale on its home mat Wednesday evening. the team’s other 24 points coming thanks to voids in the CSM line-up. DK reached the district final with a 46-36 win over host Bloomingdale. Quick, Rogers, Ferris and Kaleb Post had pins in that semifi­ nal match-up for DK, with Belew scoring a 16-5 major decision over Garrett Grover in their 189-pound bout. DK had three forfeit wins in that dual. �The Hastings Banner SPORTS SECTION — Thursday, February 20, 2020 — Page 5 Saxons sending two seniors back to Lowell for regionals TK gets eight through D2 district There is a reason Lowell is ranked number one in the state. The Lowell varsity wrestling team had all 14 of its wrestlers earn medals on its home mats at the Division 2 Individual District Tournament at Lowell High School Saturday, with nine Red Arrows winning flight champi­ onships. Thornapple Kellogg had eight medalists and Hastings two who advanced through the district tournament to earn a spot in this Saturday’s (Feb. 22) Division 2 Individual Regional Tournament back at Lowell. The Saxons’ two senior captains qualified for the regional round of the state tournament, with Gabe Trick finishing as the runner-up to Lowell’s William Link at 140 pounds and Tyler Dull placing fourth at 160 pounds. Thornapple Kellogg sophomore Ashton Corson at 103 pounds and sophomore Zack Gibson at 112 pounds won district champion­ ships, and sophomore Matthew Middleton was the runner-up at 145 pounds. The other TK medalists include junior Carter West who was third at 285 pounds, Hunter Pitsch third at 103, Kyron Zoet third at 125, Austin Chivis third at 135 and Andrew Middleton fourth at 130 pounds. Gibson was one of the few wrestlers to play spoiler to the hosts Saturday, knocking off a pair of Red Arrows to get to his 112-pound championship. Gibson, the third seed at his flight, pulled out a 3-1 win over second-seed­ ed Ramsy Mutschler in the semifinals and then outscored top-seeded Nick Korhorn 12-10 in the championship round. Trailing Korhorn 6-4 entering the third period, Gibson chose a neutral start and promptly scored a take down to even the match - putting Korhorn quickly to his back for two near-fall points and a lead. Gibson took down the top-seeded Red Arrow and put him on his back one more time in that third period and then held on in the final 20 sec­ onds for the win. A takedown 19 seconds into the opening period and a quick escape in the second accounted for Gibson’s three points in his semifinal match with Mutschler, and he only allowed one late penalty point in the third period to reach the final round. Corson pinned all three of his foes to win the 103-pound championship, finally putting Holland wrestler Josh Gordon’s shoulders on the mat with 32 seconds remaining in the third period of their title tilt. Middleton pinned Hamilton’s Jacob Kaylor and scored a 9-0 win over Wayland’s Adam Ordway to get to the 145-pound champion­ ship match where he was pinned by Lowell’s Austin Boon. TK had four and Hastings had five wres­ tlers come up one victory shy of qualifying for regionals, falling in the blood round Saturday. Saxons and Trojans went head to head in a few of those consolation semifinal bouts. Dull pinned TK senior Logan Moore in their 160-pound consolation semifinal to secure his district medal, but then got pinned himself by Byron Center’s Austin Ottow in the match for third place. TK freshman Chivis ended the season for Hastings freshman Robby Slaughter in their 135-pound consola­ tion semifinal, scoring a 5-2 win. Another Trojan freshman, Andrew Middleton at 145 pounds, bested Saxon sophomore Mason Denton in their blood-round match. The Lowell team got championships from Keigan Nugent at 215 pounds, who bested his teammate Jacob Hough in the finals, as well as Tyler Delooff at 285, James Link at 125, Zeth Strejc at 130, Dawson Jankowski at 135, Lin at 140, Austin Boone at 145, James Fotis at 152 and Jacob Lee at 171 pounds. Vikes have district medal st at seven flights Lakewood seniors Grant Clarkson and Jon Clack haven’t been beaten yet this season, and they weren’t about to start Saturday. The Lakewood varsity wrestling team got seven guys through the Division 3 Team District Tournament at Williamston Saturday, thanks to top four finishes, with Clarkson and Clack winning district championships. Clack improved his record to 45-0 on the season with pins of Portland’s Nathan Zimmerman, Corunna’s Aidan Buckley and Belding’s Mattsen Putney. Putney lasted 96 seconds on the mat with Clack in the 189pound championship match, more than a minute longer than either of the Vikings’ other two foes on the day. Clarkson moved his season record to 33-0 with pins of Olivet’s Cal Kopulos, Corunna’s Zachary Worthington and Olivet’s Tyler Trumble in the 285-pound weight class. Kopulos in the opening round was the only one to last longer than a minute. The Viking team also had Zachary Gibson second at 112 pounds, Kanon Atwell second at 119, Keegan VanAlstine second at 140, Gavin Vaughn second at 160 and Vem Fields fourth at 152 pounds. Lakewood will host its Division 3 Individual Regional Tournament Saturday (Feb. 22). It was a wild final half minute for Gibson in his 7-6 loss to top-seeded 112-pounder Jordan Rodriguez from Chesaning. The two grapplers were knotted at 4-4 after a reversal by Gibson early in the third period. Gibson held down Rodriguez for most of a minute and a half before Rodriguez took a 5-4 lead with an escape. Gibson took the lead back with a take­ down with 12 seconds on the clock before Rodriguez swung back on top for a reversal in the closing moments and a one-point win. Gibson opened the day by scoring a techni­ cal fall, 18-2, over Portland’s Carter Johnson and then pinning Corunna’s D’Angelo Campas in the second period of their semifi­ nal match. It was a tough end of the day for Atwell at 119 pounds, getting pinned by Portland’s Caiden Pelc midway through the third period of their championship match. A 7-1 win by Atwell over Pelc had just helped the Vikings to their team district championship over the Raiders Wednesday. Atwell got to the championship match Saturday by pinning Pelc’s teammate Drew Miller and then scoring a 4-3 win over Alma’s Gianni Tripp in the semifinals. VanAlstine pinned Ovid-Elsie’s Coleten Towsley-Wagner in the quarterfinal round at 140 pounds and then bested Jared Thelen from Portland by a 9-0 major decision in the semifinals. Alma’s Jarrett Ferman pinned VanAlstine half a minute into the 140-pound final. Vaughn was also pinned by an Alma wres­ tler in his championship match, Justin VanBlaricum at the close of the first period in the 160-pound final. Vaughn opened the tour­ nament with a 19-7 major decision over Olivet’s Chase Garcia and then pinned Chesaning’s Lane Miller in the semifinals. Fields was the lone Lakewood grappler to fight through any consolation matches to qualify for regionals. After getting pinned by Portland’s Marty Thelen in their 152-pound semifinal match, Fields pinned Durand’s Leka Dinaj in the blood round to secure his district medal. Fields defaulted the third-place match to Olivet’s Gavin Bartley due to an injury. Alma, the team ranked third in the state in Division 3, had eight medalists on the day and four champions. Joining 160-pounder VanBlaricum and 140-pounder Ferman on the top step of the podium for the Panthers were 152-pounder Jacob Munger and 135-pounder Dametrius Castillo. DK and Valley get good group through to D4 regional tourney “Belew and Caden were the favorites in Brett Bremer their respective weight classes.” Delton Sports Editor A couple freshmen go their first individual Kellogg head coach Brett Bissett said. “Each state tournament started off right, and a cou­ of them had a number four-ranked wrestler in ple of returning state qualifiers took district their brackets, and each of them pinned those championships for the Delton Kellogg varsity wrestlers. Belew wrestled a fantastic match in his championship match, and seems to be wrestling team Saturday. Sophomore Caden Ferris and senior Hunter peaking at the right time.” Belew each won district championships for Belew pinned the Lions’ Raymond in the Delton at the Division 4 Individual District 171-pound championship match, 51 seconds Tournament hosted by Bloomingdale. They’ll into the second period, after opening the tour­ head to Carson City-Crystal this Saturday for nament with a quick pin of teammate Alan their Division 4 Individual Regional Rogers and a 17-2 technical fall against Tournament along with freshmen teammates Climax-Scotts/Martin’s James Hildebrand in Estevan Rodriguez (119 pounds) and Vinnie the semifinals. Ferris never got out of the first period in Quick (135) who placed fourth in their respec­ any of his 215-pound matches. He stuck tive weight classes. Maple Valley got fiv£ guys through the ~ CafsOfi City-Crystal^Ryaii Holland 1:07 into district tournament as well, with Gage Ertman their championship match after first-period (103 pounds), Jesse Brumm (130) and David pins of Ravenna’s Steven Cook and Hosack-Frizzell (189) winning flight champi­ Bloomingdale’s Ethan Zuck. “Both boys will see great competition at the onships, and Matthew Slaght (112) and AJ Raymond (171) each finishing as the district regional” Bissett said. “I believe all four qual­ ifiers out of the 171 bracket will be placers at runner-up. Ferris, Brumm and Slaght were all state the state tournament as well as the 215-pound medalists a year ago, and Belew was a state bracket holding the top two guys in the divi­ sion: Caden and Camden Orr of New qualifier in 2019. Lothrop.” Brumm, a two-time state medalist for the Maple Valley team, ran his season record to 40-1 with his three wins Saturday. He topped Hesperia’s Mack Baird 3-1 in their 130-pound championship match. He bested Baird’s Hesperia teammate River Roberson 8-1 in the semifinals after a quick pin of Saranac’s Preston Dean to open the tournament. Ertman won his championship for the Lions by pinning Kent City’s Zane Kik 1:38 into their 103-pound final. Hosack-Frizzell won the 189-pound championship with an 11-4 decision over Bloomingdale’s Garrett Grover. Raymond worked his way to his runner-up finish at 171 pounds by scoring an 11-2 major decision over Ravenna’s Kiah Shull in the 171-pound quafteffffials, and then edged Carson City-Crystal’s Nash Akin 3-1 in the semifinals to earn his shot at Belew in the final. Slaght, scored a pin and a major decision on his way to the 112-pound final for the Lions where he was bested by Hesperia’s Aydan Sturtevant-Roesly 9-4. “Hard to know what to expect with so many freshman, but Vinnie Quick wrestled the best we’ve seen him all season and ended up with a big win in the blood round to punch his ticket to regionals,” Bissett said. Quick had to fight all the way through the 135-pound consolation bracket after a quar­ terfinal loss to Kent City’s Bradley Brooks. Quick pinned teammate Bow Arms in the first round of consolation and then score da 9-2 win over Gobles’ Jackson Rumery in the blood round to secure his district medal. Quick met up with Brooks again in the thirdplace match and fell in 4:41. “We picked up Estevan Rodriguez as a transfer a couple weeks ago and the (Feb. 8) SAC tournament was the only time we got to see him in action,” Bissett said. “The week­ end was a chance to see some more of what he brings to file tabletodT[eprbvedm^^astet*' to our line up by qualifying to the regional as a freshman.” Rodriguez scored his two victories by pin at the tournament, opening up by sticking Gobles’ Chris Ruiz in the quarterfinals and then securing his regional spot with a quick pin of Ravenna’s Ben Areepongsa in the con­ solation semifinals. Kent City’s Jayden Williams pinned Rodriguez a minute and a half into their semifinal match. At the end of the day, in the match for third at 119 pounds, Rodriguez was bested 10-4 by Holton’s Graham Resterhouse. Delton Kellogg’s team season is through. The Panthers were bested 47-36 by ClimaxScotts/Martin in the Division 4 Team District Final at Bloomingdale last Thursday. Climax-Scotts/Martin continued to show off its season gains at the team district tourna­ ment. Delton Kellogg bested the CSM grapplers by 30 points a month ago in a Southwestern Athletic Conference dual, but the CSM team finished sixth (a couple spots ahead of DK) at the SAC Tournament before taking the district victory last week. Ferris and Arms had pins for the DK team in the loss~tb GSM in the district final, with the team’s other 24 points coming thanks to voids in the CSM line-up. DK reached the district final with a 46-36 win over host Bloomingdale. Quick, Rogers, Ferris and Kaleb Post had pins in that semifi­ nal match-up for DK, with Belew scoring a 16-5 major decision over Garrett Grover in their 189-pound bout. DK had three forfeit wins in that dual. Vikings best Portland by a point for district title The Lakewood varsity wrestling team cap­ tured the championship at its Division 3 Team District Tournament hosted by Portland Wednesday, knocking off the host Raiders 34-33 in the district final after a win over Belding in the district semifinals to open the evening. Lakewood clinched the district title by win­ ning seven of the first dozen weight classes in the final, including Kanon Atwell’s 7-1 win over Portland’s Caiden Pelc in the 119-pound match that put the Vikings up 13 points with two flights to go. The Vikings forfeited the final two weight classes to the Raiders to finish off the eve­ ning. A pair of top ten teams were set to be a part of the four-team regional tournament at Lakewood last night, the fifth-ranked Vikings and third-ranked Alma. Alma was set to face Durand and Lakewood was scheduled to face Williamston in the two Division 3 Regional Semifinal match-ups. Lakewood was trailing the Raiders for much of the early portion of Wednesday’s district final. Trent Trierweiler scored a pin in the 135-pound match to open the dual for the Raiders, and then Jared Thelen edged the Vikings’ Keegan VanAlstine 2-0 at 140 pounds - giving Portland a 9-0 lead. The Vikings moved in front for good when 215-pounder Jonathan Clack pinned Portland’s Nathan Zimmerman 37 seconds into their match, moving the Vikings ahead 19-18 through the first eight flights. Grant Clarkson won by forfeit for the Vikings at 285 pounds. The Vikings also got pins from Donavan Pratt at 145 pounds and Zachary Gibson at 112 pounds. Vem Fields scored a 9-5 win for the Vikings at 152 pounds over Marty Thelen and teammate Gavin Vaughn followed that up by outscoring Cal Wittenbach 14-0 in the 160pound match. Portland got a pin from Dillon Vroman at 171 pounds. Branson Goodman at 189 pounds and Ethan Webert at 103 each scored deci­ sions for the hosts. Lakewood’s Zachary Gibson works on top of Portland’s Carter Johnson during their 112-pound match Wednesday at the Division 3 Team District Final hosted by the Raiders. (Photo by Michael Graham) Lakewood opened the night with a 69-9 win over Belding in the district semifinals. Gabe Cappon, Fields, Clack, Ashton Clark and Atwell had pins for the Vikings against the Black Knights. Pratt took a 7-3 win over Zachariah Powers at 145 pounds. Lakewood also got forfeit wins from VanAlstine, Vaughn, Kyle Petrie, Clarkson and Gibson. See us for all of your • Photo processing needs • Specials on double prints • Wedding packages • Reprints 1351 N M-43 - Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 The Vikings’ Jon Clack closes in on a pin of Belding’s Ethan Schmid during the first period of their 215-pound bout Wednesday in the Division 3 Team District Semifinals at Portland High School. (Photo by Michael Graham) 269.945.9105 �Page 6 — Thursday, February 20, 2020 — The Hastings Banner SPORTS SECTION Dull dispels detention basin rumors Luke Froncheck Staff Writer GEI Engineer Brian Cenci and Barry County Drain Commissioner Jim Dull agree that when they initially estimated how much water could be pumped from Crooked Lake into a nearby detention basin, they were being conservative. In fact, in the summer of 2019 they expected to only be able to take three inches off Upper Crooked Lake. To date, the pumping effort has taken 15 inches off the lake, and the only reason the pump isn’t running now is due to ice on the lake. But as the pump ran and ran and ran, some residents began to ask where the water was going. The basin isn’t holding all of the water; it’s seeping into the ground and out of sight and because of that, 3 inches was able to turn to 15. One of the most recent concerns raised by Barry Township residents is that the water is draining down and negatively affecting the aquifer. “We don’t have any reason to believe that it is,” Dull said. Dull is in the process of installing nine piezometers around the detention basin to track where the water is going and why the ground can absorb so much of it. Those readings will not come back until they are able to start pumping again. Dull also denied the notion that water from the property may be flowing right back into Crooked Lake. The report from a contracted hydrologist said the water would move one foot a day underground. Assuming the water does move at that speed, which Dull said is a liberal estimate, the detention basin is still 700 feet away from Upper Crooked Lake. So, it would take more than two years for any of the pumped water to make its way back into the lake. Dull said he expects that they’ve hit a gravel pit, allowing the property to take in much more water than the original estimates. Cenci said the area is a glacier washout point, with many gravel veins throughout the area. Some residents have raised concerns regarding increased rainfall and temperatures in the coming months. One of the biggest concerns Dull has is that the water will start rapidly rising like it did in spring of 2019. “We know it’s going to,” Dull said. “That’s why we’re trying to do everything we can so that we’re ready for it this year.” The plan is to never let the water get as high as it did last year, but Dull acknowledged he can’t predict what will happen. “We don’t know what’s coming,” he said. “A lot of it depends on when the ice comes BOARD OF REVIEW MEETING SCHEDULE THE ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP BOARD OF REVIEW will be held at the Orangeville Township Hall, 7350 Lindsey Rd. Plainwell Mi. 49080 on the following dates. Tuesday March 3, Organizational Meeting - 4:00 pm Monday, March 9, Appeal Hearing - 9:00 am to 12:00 noon & 1:00pm to 4:00 pm Tuesday March 10, Appeal Hearing -1:30 pm to 4:30 pm, & 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm The Board of Review will meet as many more days as deemed necessary to hear questions, protests and to equalize the 2020 assessments. By Board resolution, residents are able to protest by letter, provided protest letter is received by March 10, 2020 -12:00 noon. Written protests should be mailed to; BOARD OF REVIEW 7350 LINDSEY RD. PLAINWELL Ml. 49080 The tentative ratios and the estimated multipliers for each class of real property and personal property for 2017 are as follows; Agricultural............................. 44.64 %.................................. Commercial............................. 47.83 % ..................... Industrial ............................. 48.06%..................... ............ Residential ............................. 48.46 %.................................. Personal ............................. 50.00 %..................... 1.12008 1.04537 1.04037 1.03178 UQ0Q (ADA) Americans with Disabilities Notice Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Clerk at least seven (7) days in advance of hearing. This notice posted in Compliance with PA 267 of 1976 as amended (Open Meetings Act) MCLA41.72a (2)(3) and with the Americans with Disabilities Act Contacts - Clerk - Mel Risner: 269-664-4522 Supervisor- Thomas Rook: 616-299-6019 137289 RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP Engineer Brian Cenci, Drain Commissioner Jim Dull and attorney Doug Kelly update county commissioners Tuesday. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) off. Once the ice comes off, we’re going to be golden.” Anytime there is less than 25 percent ice coverage on Upper Crooked Lake, Dull said he would make sure the pump is running, even if it’s just for a few hours on a Saturday. Despite unexpected events, Cenci said the progress is within a month of where they said it would be when they released their timeline last year. The plan was for 2020 to be the year they got as much water off they lake as they could in a timely manner. The plan for 2021 is to begin construction on a long-term solution. Recently, Dull and his office asked Barry County commissioners to establish a legal lake level for Cloverdale and Long lakes. The request was recommended for approval at the board’s committee of the whole meeting Tuesday. Dull said just because they asked to establish a legal lake level for Cloverdale and Long lakes, it doesn’t mean they will have to do the same for all the lakes in the county. “The reason we wanted this was because of the structures we’re setting,” Dull said. “[The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy staff] doesn’t want us to set structures that are adjustable, so we don’t go willy-nilly and say ‘Today we’ll set the level at this and tomorrow we’ll set it at that.’ “They want something that, when we get done, will be a permanent level.” One aspect to the work that wasn’t permanent, however, was the engineering company Dull had engaged to do the work: Instead of ENG engineering, Dull has have opted for the much larger GEI engineering firm. Even so, both Brian Cenci and Nick DeSemplare, who have been the lead engineers on the Crooked Lake project, will continue to work with Dull on the project. Both Cenci and DeSampelare, along with three other colleagues, joined GEI. GEI, which has worked with Dull and his office in the past, has done some work on the Crooked Lake project, conducting wetland delineations. Cenci said this is one of the largest and most complex projects he’s worked on. With GEI, he’ll have more of the resources he needs to get things done. “I think it will definitely help on this project,” Cenci said. “They have a lot more resources. Nick and I will be able to get lake level studies done in house.” Dull said his faith in Cenci and DeSampelare’s ability to work on the project never wavered; his primary concern was that ENG was unable to provide substantial resources for the engineers. “I literally told Brian that I hired you and Nick, not ENG,” Dull said. His commitment to Cenci and DeSampelare was Dull’s primary reason for not seeking out another firm. He said he was certain he wanted to stick with the engineers he had hired in the first place, regardless of the firm they worked for. “I didn’t want to switch engineers in the middle of a project because they already have all the background,” Dull said. “ENG is great company, and they got some good people. But I mean if you’re going to go take on a high rise, you can’t just have a small company do it.” ” Hastings girls bested by conferenced top teams The Hastings varsity girls’ basketball team is still chasing its first victory of the season. The Saxons will have their last couple chances to do that on their home court this regular season when they play host to Jackson Northwest Friday and Pennfield Tuesday. Hastings fell at Parma Western 66-26 Tuesday in Interstate-8 Athletic Conference action as the Panthers push to keep pace with Harper Creek at the top of the conference standings. Both Parma Western and Harper Creek are now 15-2 overall this season and 10-1 in 1-8 play. Both are now among the honorable mention teams in the state’s Division 2 rankings. Harper Creek scored a 58-21 win over the Saxons in Hastings last Friday. In between the two league losses, the Saxons were bested 52-44 by the Lakewood girls Saturday. The Lakewood ladies were 22-of-28 at the free throw line to hold off the Saxons, with Olivia Lang hitting ten of 12 attempts. Lang finished the evening with 12 points. Sophie Duits had 12 points, Kristine Possehn 11 and Anja Kelley nine in the win for the Vikings. NOTICE OF BOARD OF REVIEW The Board of Review will meet on Tuesday, March 3,2020, at 1:00 pm in the office of the Assessor at Rutland Charter Township Hall, 2461 Heath Rd, Hastings, Michigan 49058 to organize and review the Assessment Roll. Hastings junior Josey Nickels rises over Harper Creek’s Sarah Berning to get a shot up during the second half of the Beavers’ win at Hastings High School Friday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING to hear Assessment APPEALS will be held at the RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP HALL, 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, Michigan on: 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm & 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm MONDAY, MARCH 9,2020 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11,2020 9:00 am to NOON & 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm Also, any other days deemed necessary to equalize the Assessment Roll. PROPERTY ASSESSMENT RATIOS & FACTORS FOR 2020 CLASS RATIO MULTIPLIER Agriculture 46.98 1.0642 Commercial 47.32 1.0566 Industrial 54.67 .9145 Residential 47.63 1.0497 Developmental 50.00 1.0000 50.00 1.0000 Personal The above ratios and multipliers do not mean that every parcel will receive the same. If you have purchased property, it will be assessed at 50% of market value. If you have improved your property such as additions, new buildings, driveways, etc., this will also reflect in the value of your property. Upon request of any person who is assessed on said roll, or his agent, and upon sufficient cause being shown, the Board of Review will correct the assessment of such property and will, in their judgment, make the valuation thereof relatively just and equal. Dennis McKelvey, Assessor RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP 2461 Heath Rd Hastings, MI 49058 269-948-2194 Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Rut­ land Charter Township Clerk by writing or calling the Township. This notice is posted in compliance with PA 267 of 1976 as amended (Open Meetings Act) MCLA41.72a (2)(3) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) • 137344 The Saxons’ Allison Teed tries to fight her way around a pair of Harper Creek defenders at the free throw line during their Interstate-8 Athletic Conference match-up in Hastings Friday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-02-27.pdf 73972c27b999e49dfc6a03813133be0e PDF Text Text No coronavirus cases confirmed in Michigan Teacher shortage is real Saxons, Trojans cheer move on to regionals See Story on Page 3 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 14 804879110187 1070490102590501258049058113421 Richard Hemertng Thursday, February 27, 2020 VOLUME 167, No. 9 PRICE 750 County planning commission approves museum expansion Thornapple Wind Band hosting Olivet Friday The Thomapple Wind Band will per­ form its third concert of the season at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, at the Hastings Performing Arts Center. The local com­ munity band will host the Olivet College Wind Ensemble. Each group will play separately and then will join for a com­ bined performance. Concertgoers will hear a mix of concert band music, including marches, over­ tures and a waltz. The performance will mark the sixth collaborative concert between the two ensembles. Thornapple Wind Band con­ ductor, David Macqueen, is a 1976 gradu­ ate of Olivet College. Light refreshments for the public and musicians will be available alter the con­ cert. The Thomapple Wind Band is open to all adult musicians regardless of ability, and anyone interested in more information enjoining the band is welcome to speak to members after the concert. Concerts are tree, but the band happily accepts donations which help to pay for new music. The final concert of the season will be April 3. Downtown Hastings sculpture tour selection planned Residents, artists and art lovers of all ages are invited to help select eight new sculptures for the 2020-21 Downtown Hastings Sculpture Tour. The selection will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 5, in the council chambers upstairs at Hastings City Hall. A representative from the Midwest Sculpture Initiative will present a slide show of sculptures available for display. Attendees will get to vote for the sculp­ tures they would like to see in downtown Hastings. Light refreshments will be served. More information can be provided by Maiya Merrick, 269-945-2468. Government accountability forum planned March 14 The second local government account­ ability forum is planned for 3 p.m. Saturday, March 14, at the Tyden Center in Hastings. The featured guest speaker will be Barry County Commissioner Ben Geiger. Topics may include the possibility of a millage on the ballot for a sheriff’s office and jail and/or a Commission on Aging facility; recent lake level studies and how the county is handling the rising water levels; and plans for a dog park in Hastings Charter Township, among others. “This forum will mirror the government accountability forum last event, which featured Sheriff Dar Leaf,” forum organiz­ er Joel Ibbotson of Rutland Charter Township said. “I will have a few short comments, bring up some major issues and events happening at the county level, then give Ben Geiger the floor to speak to those issues and have you ask any ques­ tions and give input.” “This event is in no way sponsored by the county,” Ibbotson said. “I am simply a concerned citizen, just as you are, working to stay informed and doing my best to keep our government transparent and accountable.” Ibbotson said citizens with specific requests or concerns that need researching See NEWS BRIEFS, page 3 Luke Froncheck Staff Writer The architectural engines were revving for the Gilmore Car Museum at the Barry County Planning Commission meeting Monday night. The commission unanimously approved an expansion project presented by the museum. Architect Chris Nelson from Schley Nelson Architects of Oshtemo represented the muse­ um. Nelson briefly reviewed plans for the expansion before fielding questions from commissioners. The presentation was part of the required public hearing for the museum’s case, which outlined the two different projects. However, no citizens spoke either in favor or in opposi­ tion to the expansion. Board member Jack Miner called the plans very understandable and detailed. The first of the projects was the proposed 26,213-square-foot muscle car museum. The new building will include 25,000 square feet of interactive exhibit space, 3,000 square feet of changing exhibit space, a replica dealership See MUSEUM, page 10 Schley Nelson Architects provided the planning commission with plans for the proposed muscle car building which is set to have a “retro car dealership” feel. Hastings 4 theater owner files for bankruptcy theater is up in the |gir;l its owner has filed for .. the Hastings 4 theater at 213 W. State St., 'Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. ' *issued the filing Tuesday in U.S. Bankruptcy Goodrich Quality Theaters, which owns Court in Grand Rapids. Goodrich has owned the theater since 1998, when it acquired the former Strand Theater. A show cause hearing in the case has been set for Wednesday, March 4, before Chief Bankruptcy Judge Scott Dales, said Kelly Hagan, one of the trustees assigned to the case. Based in Grand Rapids, Goodrich owns 30 theaters in five states. In its filing, Goodrich cited estimated assets at between $50 million and $100 million, and liabilities at between $10 million and $50 million. The number of creditors the company owes money to is listed at between 50 and 99, court records show. The largest creditor listed in the filing is Vistar Corporation, a food service company based in the Detroit suburb of Belleville. Vistar has a claim of $1,086,417 against Goodrich. Other unsecured claims listed in the filing include: Universal Film Exchange, Dallas, $303,523 Spirit Master Funding X, Dallas, $460,934 (mortgages on four of Goodrich’s theaters) Sony Releasing, $224,570 Christie Digital Systems, Los Angeles, $203,013 Warner Brothers, Atlanta, $121,048 PepsiCo, Chicago, $103,000 The Hastings 4 cinema is one of several theaters affected by Tuesday’s Chapter 11 IMAX Corporation, Mississauga, Ontario, bankruptcy filing by Goodrich Quality Theaters. Canada, $87,244 Greg Chandler Staff Writer The future of Barry County’s only movie Walt Disney Studios, Burbank, Calif.; $81,063 ’■ 1 Goodrich had come under fire in December 2019 over a policy change where it said it would no longer employ workers under the age of 18. An advertisement on the chain’s website indicated it was looking for part-time help, but applicants had to be at least 18. At least two employees at the Hastings 4 who were under 18 lost their jobs as a result of the policy change. One of them, Rose Lambert, submitted an online petition on the website change.org, alleging Goodrich’s actions were “unfair and disrespectful to the teens currently working in the business.” “I definitely think he got what was coming,” Lambert wrote in an email message to the Banner. “Most of his customers and employees were teenagers or started as teenagers.” ' More than 10,000 people signed the online petition, according to the website. Goodrich did not respond to requests for comments on the policy change, but a state youth employment specialist, Tara Bride, told the Banner at the time that a possible reason for the move may have been connected with the chain’s addition of alcohol at some of its theaters. A 1978 Michigan law says a minor cannot be issued a work permit in an establishment where alcohol is sold for consumption on the premises. The Hastings 4 was not one of the locations where alcohol SeeTHEATER, page t •» Emergency IT upgrade gets go-ahead from Hastings council Doug VanderLaan Contributing Writer An emergency upgrade to the city’s “endof-life” information technology system was approved Monday by the Hastings City Council, which voted to spend up to $50,000 to address the most urgent needs. The increase, approved 7-2 after at-times contentious discussion, will be part of a bud­ get amendment to the current fiscal year bud­ get. “We have to move forward,” City Manager Jerry Czarnecki told council members Monday evening, echoing the remarks of City Clerk/Treasurer Jane Saurman at a special council meeting last month that, “We all need to understand, we have dug ourselves into an infrastructure hole and we need to dig our­ selves out.” Of greater concern have been the security risks associated with the current system which has been deemed to be on an “end-of-life” basis in the opinion of the city’s IT consultant. “We have stored personal information on every taxpayer in town (on the current sys­ tem),” Mayor David Tossava said. “If some­ one gets into that, what will hapipen?” What will happen now - with a phone call that Saurman said she would be making to software development consultant Aunalytics Tuesday morning - will be an extension of the city’s current contract with the South Bend, Ind.-based software company that serves the city from an office in Kalamazoo. Aunalytics is currently under contract with the city for storage and hardware concerns. Technical support has been handled separate­ ly with one Aunalytics employee spending eight hours per month at a rate of $190-$200 per hour at city offices to troubleshoot and correct software problems. That arrangement, Saurman explained, is woefully inadequate and, in large part, a reason for the ongoing problems of an aging system. “The problem is we have one problem per day,” she told the council. “I get on the phone sometimes on Sunday night at 7 pan. to get the help we need so that at 8 a.m. the next day the staff can come in and work. What we’re getting for what we’re paying is not very helpful.” By updating the three-year Aunalytics con­ tract to include all three aspects of IT service - storage, hardware, and support - the city See UPGRADE, page 11 arry County board disputes how to go about ad hoc plan Rebecca Pierce Editor The future of the Barry County Commission on Aging is a concern for some county residents - and they’re letting their commissioners know about it. Commissioners went around the table at their Tuesday meeting, sharing comments about the COA and the jail from letters and emails. Many of those writers expressed concern about what actions the board might be considering. Chairman Heather Wing said one writer told her she is stupid. Another letter writer who supported replacing the COA building as well as the jail, told Commissioner Vivian Conner that “our taxpayers are feeling overwhelmed already and many truly have no more money to give and still be able to stay in Barry County.” Commissioner Jon Smelker said he received comment from a resident who spoke in favor of fixing the COA. “We had a long talk,” he said. “I received a couple of messages from folks concerned that this board of commis­ sioners was going to close the COA. That’s not true,” Commissioner Ben’Geiger said." “No one from the board has ever suggested that. The taxpayers have approved a millage' to operate the COA. “What we’re talking about here is facili­ ties and taxes ...We’re trying to find a way " to get them new and better space without) raising taxes, which seems to be a position«. that the COA board has, too.” Geiger was referring to a Feb. 24 letter * from the COA board chairwoman Sandy Kozan advising the commissioners that, at its Feb. 18 COA Board of Directors meet­ ing, discussion took place regarding the. future of a COA building millage on the * upcoming ballot. “Throughout the TowerPinkster process, we have heard strong community and com-' mission support for both a Commission on" Aging building project and a jail/sheriff’s department project. We have also heard reluctance among the taxpayers present to pay additional millage. “As a result of the discussion from our See DISPUTES, page 12 3 �?Page 2 — Thursday, February 27, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Amid questions, planning commission approves dog park Luke Froncheck Staff Writer • A new dog park in Barry County cleared its •first major hurdle. [ On Monday, the county Planning [Commission approved a proposal for a new [park in Hastings Charter Township. ' In accordance with a motion by John •Laforge and seconded by Robert Vanderboegh, [the board approved a park only, with no [permanent feature to be done until architectural [plans are submitted. ’ The proposal passed 6-1. Commissioner •Ben Geiger, while supporting the idea of the dog park, disagreed with the decision to [approve the proposal because he questioned ‘whether the project should be defined as a park. Frank Mix, a supporter of the dog park, owns the 20-acre property at 490 Powell Road where the park will be located. Mix is a member of the Hastings Dog Park Companions. The group, formerly involved with the Hastings City Dog Park, is filed as a nonprofit organization and will oversee the new park. j At the beginning of the meeting, planning Commission Chairman Clyde Morgan spoke directly to the roughly 20 people in the audience, acknowledging that the crowd had gathered to hear the board’s decision on the dog park. “This is just a review of prints that this fellow [Mix] sent us. I don’t have to open that up to the public,” Morgan said. “It’s just a site plan review. But you people aren’t here to just look at our pretty faces. I want to hear what you have to say.” Planning and Zoning Administrator Jim McManus said the property is zoned in such a way that parks are a legal use. , “The question this evening is not whether or not a park can be placed here, it is automatically allowed,” McManus said. “The planning commission’s task is to make sure ~ that the design of the park and all the attributes of the park meet all of our zoning requirements.” Hastings Dog Park Companions chairman [Christopher Geisert spoke on behalf of the [group during the meeting. i * “The park we have in the city today is a -mud pit, and it’s almost not usable today [because the ground has so much water,” he ■Said. <■ Hastings Charter, Township resident Ron ’Lepard stood during the hearing and said he [isn’t entirely opposed to the proposition of a •park, but he has some concerns. 5 Lepard’s property is adjacent to the site for ■the proposed park. In the past, he’s had some [issues with dogs running up onto his deck. [ Mix said the plan is for the park to be Rouble-fenced with 6-foot-tall fencing, which ’Lepard acknowledged as a “good thing.” The ■park’s entrance also would be double-fenced •and would swing shut automatically. Each of [the sections within the park will be fenced as [well, he said. C “This is a controlled environment,” Geisert §gid. “We’re not bringing in dogs to run amok.” . Dogs must be kept on leashes going in and out of the park until they are securely in the fenced-in area. A buffer zone would be provided between the park and surrounding properties. Hastings Charter Township resident Jim Newton spoke in opposition to the dog park. Newton owns a farm roughly a quarter-mile from the site. Chris Geisert is chairman of Hastings Dog Park Companions, the group head­ ing up a new dog park proposal. Although ultimately supporting the pro­ posal, commission member Robert Vanderboegh raised concerns over how the park would be funded. He asked those who presented the proposal to return with a more detailed plan. He raised concerns over dogs escaping and getting to his cattle. He referred to a situation 15 years ago when four dogs chased his cattle and killed a calf, representing a loss of $500. Newton asked whether the park would be protected by insurance, something Geisert later addressed. He assured the planning commission, and Newton, that the park would be covered. Hastings Charter Township Supervisor Jim Brown supported the proposal. “I’m speaking as a resident, not a supervisor,” Brown began. “This is a world­ class design that will put Barry County on the map. Of all the parks we have in Barry County, this would be one of the best.” The park will have 41 regular parking spaces and 20 handicapped parking spaces. Unless the planning commission approves a later application for large events, Geisert said, they don’t expect to have more than 300 people in the park at any time. The park will have restrooms with an on-site septic system and a well for running water. Commission member Joyce Snow asked whether people could go to the park without dogs just to have a picnic. “^Absolutely,” Mix said, “th fact, we’d encourage it so people can learn about dogs if they can’t have a dog themselves. This is all about community building and bringing people together. TTiis is designed to be just as much of a people park as it is a dog park.” The park is set to contain multiple areas, such as obstacle courses, picnicking areas, a lake for dogs and seven fenced locations for the severely disabled. The park, which organizers said would be 100-percent handicapped accessible, will be named the Barry County Veterans Memorial Dog Park. The lakes would have filtration systems with water that would be drinkable for dogs. Mix said the lakes, because of how expensive they are, probably would be one of the last items to be installed in the park. Obstacle courses in the park would be designed to meet dog competition guidelines. “We want to build a first-of-its-kind, world­ class dog park. Unlike any other in the world,” Mix said. However, before entering the park with their pets, dog owners would be required to Ben Geiger cast the sole dissenting vote as the Barry County Planning Commission approved the dog park pro­ posal 6-1. obtain a pass that would grant them entry. Mix said dog owners would have to apply and prove that their dogs have had all their medical checks, shots and valid six-month fecal tests. Without the correct paperwork, dogs would not be admitted entrance. “It’s just too hazardous for the other dogs and other dog owners,” Geisert said. The park would have hours throughout the week where people could obtain a card to access the park. The cards would have a fee, but the cost has not yet been determined. Geisert estimated the cost would be around $25. Any revenue the park generates would go back into the park, he said. Mix said the committee would explore other avenues to help cover the cost for those who could not afford the fee. Although dog owners must verify the good health of their dogs before using the park, those without dogs would be able to use the park at any time during its operation at no cost. Morgan said a dog park recently opened near Bailey Park in Battle Creek and has been well used. “But the other part of that is that, every six months, the people down there aren’t having to pay to get a fecal test for their dogs,” Laforge said. The Hastings dog pare 'AVould be open during daylight hours much of the year. However, in winter months, it would likely be open after daylight hours to accommodate residents who don’t get out of work until it’s dark. When open after dark, their intention is to use solar lighting. A security system would be installed to monitor the park during nighttime hours. Mix repeatedly acknowledged that these are just site plans and that the committee still needs to go back to the board with architectural drawings. He said he expects to finance the projects through a series of philanthropic donations and corporate sponsorships. “What you’re doing here is really quite extensive and expensive,” Laforge said. “I just want to know that you’re not just going to start and have a fence up and, all of a sudden, the money will run out.” The park’s construction would be undertaken in phases, Mix responded, but proponents would not begin any phase until the funding for that specific segment is available in its entirety. They do not intend to take any government money or tax dollars, he said. “Maybe we’ll get lucky and all the funding will come in, but we’re only going to build as funding permits,” Mix said. Vanderboegh also raised concerns about the cost of the project and his desire to see a more detailed plan regarding the cost of each phase. Mix pointed out that they cannot begin raising money without the planning commission’s approval. The project would most likely take multiple years to complete. “The engineering firm said that, if we had all the money, we could do it in six months,” Mix said. The first steps of construction would be to fence the entire area in and put the parking lot and accessible areas in place. Geiger and Jack Miner also raised concerns about the project. Geiger said the proposal was almost set up to be a “dog event center,” citing potential issues such as planned overflow parking and a training center. McManus explained the park conceptually cannot include a training center or large events at its original approval. But, if the committee were to return with further applications for the other items, they could. Miner shared Geiger’s concerns regarding the proposed training facility and large event plans. “As this gentleman and this group moves forward, I think they should understand that this [the training facility and events] is not automatic,” Miner said. Geiger, who questioned whether the venue would be a park and not a dog club, repeatedly compared the proposal to a commercial Frank Mix, property owner for the new dog park, sits before the Barry County Planning Commission for more than an hour Monday as he answers questions on his proposal. venture and a dog club. “We want to keep it public ...” Mix said. “Yes, there will be public membership,” Geiger responded. "... Open to everyone,” Mix said, “in the true sense of the word ‘public.’” Geiger praised the initiative of the group but repeatedly expressed his concern that the proposed project was a park in name only. Mix said the training facility and largeevent phases wouldn’t happen for a couple of years. Geiger also said the commission was not considering how innovative the new park would be. “I think this concept is too big to approve today through the ordinance that we have,” Geiger said. “I want to vote yes tonight and say it’s a good thing. But knowing the laws we have in place and the other requirements we have for businesses, I can’t say yes to this being a park, tonight. “You can’t be successful unless you have some sort of business arm to manage it.” But Vanderboegh pointed out that the responsibility of the commission is not to ensure the success of people or groups making proposals. Laforge and Snow agreed. “It’s not our responsibility to tell someone they can or cannot apply for something that they are legally able to apply for,” Laforge said. “I just think it would be disingenuous to approve it,” Geiger responded. “I understand, and you’ve said that on several occasions, Laforge saief.’“ivly point is I disagree with you for a number of reasons,” “I disagree with you also,” Snow said. “Who are you talking to?” Geiger said. “You,” Snow responded. Following the exchange, the planning commission voted and approved the proposal, with Geiger casting the lone no vote. After the meeting, Geiger said calling the project “a park” may create some unnecessary red tape in the future. “I don’t think our zoning law is prepared for an idea as bold as this one.” FREE WILL OFFERING MARY YOUNGS* BENEFIT CONCERT Hastings Performing Arts Center cm MADE-IN Al MICHIGAN 3 Urbanist coming to Hastings Tuesday A Celebration of Music Connected to the Great State of Michigan 9 FEATURING THE FOUOWINGIDEAL TALENTS. Ellie Youngs Beth Lepak Brian Calley Cindy Olsen Doug Acker Belle Youngs Fred Jacobs Haywood Sisters Chase Youngs Gene Greenfield Angle Seeber Tfm & Colleen Acker Sc^o/->,°?n9s Terry Dean Erin Merritt Tom Alderson Steve Youngs Kelly Mauer °ceec/ to. Jason Drake Members of the Hastings High School Band | Barry Ij Community p Foundation February 29,2020 • 7-9 PM Robert Gibbs of Birmingham, Mich., a developer, speaker and businessman, will be in Hastings for a public forum discussion next week on business growth strategies for the city. The president of Gibbs Planning Group, Gibbs has advised and worked on planning for more than 1,000 cities. He’s an urban retail specialist, according to Hastings’ city consultant Rebecca Harvey, The program will be framed as an “ask the expert” format, Harvey said. “I just know the community will find him interesting. We want to allow time for people to ask questions.” He has authored numerous books and arti­ cles, including “Principles for Urban Retail.” The event will take place at the Walldorff ballroom in downtown Hastings from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 3. Robert Gibbs Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 27, 2020 — Page 3 Hastings FFA members still eyeing state competition Taking second place and moving on to state, the Jr. High Conduct of Meetings team includes (from left) Trey Casey, Ryan VanDorp, Diego Coipel, Kaylie Carl, Aydria Willard, Keegan Lindsey and Heath Hays. No coronavirus cases confirmed in Michigan The Parliamentary Procedure team of (from left) Ryan VanDorp, Addison Horrmann, Emily Roe, Breanna Willard, Emma White and Kayla Willard placed third at regionals, making them an alternate team. The Hastings FFA Chapter traveled to Calhoun Area Career Center Feb. 18 to compete in Region I leadership and public speaking contests - and several still have a chance at the state competition. The top two placing teams or individuals from each district qualify to compete in regional contests. Then, the top two teams or individuals in the various regions qualify to move on to state. Those placing third at any competition are alternates for the next level. And that is where some Hastings FFA members find themselves as the state convention nears. Charlie Nickels placed third in the junior high creed speaking contest and is an alternate for state convention. So is the high school parliamentary procedure team consisting of Addison Horrmann, Emily Roe, Michael Van Dorp, Emma White, Breanna Willard and Kayla Willard. The Junior High Conduct of Meetings team took second place and will move on to the state convention. Members of that team include Kaylie Carl, Trey Casey, Diego Coipel, Heath Hays, Keegan Lindsey, Ryan Van Dorp and Aydria Willard. The Ag Issues team of Faith Beede, Emily Mitchell, Andrew VanSyckle and Haylee VanSyckle took fifth place with their presentation on milk versus plant-based milk. Whether individuals or teams, all Charlie Nickels placed third at region­ als in the creed speaking contest and is an alternate to the state competition. competitors receive a rating of gold, silver or bronze, depending on their skills, knowledge and presentation. All of the Hastings FFA members earned gold awards Tuesday evening. Region 1 covers 10 counties in Southwest Michigan. The FFA State Convention will be March 4-6 at Michigan State University. Bridge Magazine and The Associated Press The spread of a new coronavirus, known as COVID-2019, is all but inevitable in the United States, according to a top official with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Nancy Messonnier, director of the CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, said Tuesday the agen­ cy expects to see more cases in the United States, and she urged parents and schools to brace for “severe” disruptions to everyday life. Globally, cases of COVID-19 have now topped 80,000, with the death toll at 2,700 people, mostly in China, according to the World Health Organization. Michigan’s hospitals and public health offi­ cials — already in the middle of widespread flu — say they are planning to confront the virus, officially known as COVID-19. State health officials have said the flu actu­ ally presents a greater threat to the public health than the new coronavirus. But the global impact of the viral outbreak is threatening to crimp economic growth and hurt profits and revenue for a wide range of economic sectors, including agriculture. Earlier this week, the Dow Jones Industrial Average sank more than 1,000 points as the spread of the coronavirus threatened wider damage to the global economy. As of Feb. 19, the new coronavirus had not been detected in Michigan, but the state con­ firmed that it has monitored hundreds of resi­ dents or visitors who may have been exposed to the virus. The Michigan Department of Health and State officials warn of scams related to coronavirus The Ag Issues team of (from left) Faith Beede, Emily Mitchell, Haylee VanSyckle and Andrew VanSyckle placed fifth with their presentation on milk versus plant-based milk. (Photos provided) [news briefs continued from front page ahead of time should leave a comment on the Facebook page, “Local Government Accountability Forum,” or email barrycountyLGAF@gmail.com before March 14. Census invitation coming April 1 The Barry-Eaton District Health Department is reminding residents that this is the year for the U.S. Census, which pro­ vides critical data lawmakers, business own­ ers, teachers and others use to provide daily services, products and support for the com­ munity. Every year, billions of dollars in federal funding go to hospitals, fire departments, schools, roads and other resources based on census data, according to information from the health department. By April 1, every home will receive an invitation to participate in the 2020 census. Citizens have three options for responding: Online, by phone or by mail. Participating in the census is required by law. A complete and accurate count is critical because the results of the 2020 census will affect com­ munity funding, congressional representa­ tion and more. Watch out for scams related to the corona­ virus disease, state officials say. These scams include websites selling fake products, along with fabricated emails, texts and social media posts attempting to steal money and personal information. The emails and posts may be promoting awareness and prevention tips, along with phony information about cases in residents’ neighborhoods. They may also ask for dona­ tions to victims, provide advice on unproven treatments or contain damaging attachments. “While the threat of coronavirus disease 2019 is real, there have been no confirmed cases in Michigan,” Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said. “Do not fall for these scams. In fact, this is the perfect exam­ ple of criminals preying on people’s fears. Don’t give a single piece of personal informa­ tion to anyone reaching out to you regarding coronavirus.” The Federal Trade Commission has offered the following tips to help avoid scammers: - Don’t click on links from sources you don’t know. - Watch for emails claiming to be from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or experts saying they have informa­ tion about the virus. - Ignore online offers for vaccinations. Be alert to “investment opportunities.” “While the current risk of COVID-19 in the United States is low, we are working with our local and federal partners to make sure our public health system is prepared,” Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, said. “The best way Michiganders can stay healthy is to wash their hands often with soap and water, cover their coughs and sneezes, stay away from people who are sick and stay home if they are not feeling well. For accurate, up-todate information, visit the CDC’s website or the MDHHS’ webpage.” Consumers are encouraged to file consum­ er complaints online with the Michigan Department of Attorney General or call 877­ 765-8388. Human Services, along with local health departments, lists 341 people in the state who have been referred for monitoring of corona­ virus since Jan. 31 by the CDC, according to department spokeswoman Lynn Sutfin. It is believed that symptoms develop within 14 days of exposure, and those that have passed the two week window are no longer monitored. Five people in Michigan have actually been tested for the virus, with all results coming back negative. Only those with a possible exposure to the new coronavirus and who develop symptoms meet the CDC guidelines for testing. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had referred 334 people to the MDHSS for monitoring. Among those moni­ tored are travelers who arrived in the United States through one of 11 airports, including Detroit Metropolitan Airport. Other individu­ als were on cruise ships, Sutfin said. Those deemed at the lowest risk of expo­ sure were asked to “self-monitor” for any symptoms such as fever, cough and shortness of breath. Those deemed medium risk are considered “self-quarantined” and are asked to stay at home as they stay alert for symp­ toms, Sutfin said. Only those with a possible exposure and who develop symptoms would meet the CDC guidelines for testing. The rapid spread to countries outside of China is raising anxiety about the threat the outbreak poses to the global economy. South Korea is now on its highest alert for infectious diseases after cases there spiked. Italy report­ ed a sharp rise in cases and a dozen towns in the northern, more industrial part of that coun­ try are under quarantine. The nation now has the biggest outbreak in Europe, prompting officials to cancel Venice’s famed Carnival, along with soccer matches and other public gatherings. There are also more cases of the virus being ' reported in the Middle East as it spreads to Iran, Iraq, and Kuwait, among others. An image of the first U.S. case of coronavirus, formally known as COVID-19. (Image courtesy of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) KYOMI’S GIFT PRESENTS H/WOCXIN DAY MARC 114™ 12:30-6:30 PM JMMUNITY ENRICHMENT CENTER Mlj Ml ■L Fl 11 Broadway in Hastings wtn.. NNY CORKERS starting at 1:00 i Trivia between sets sh Music cash oar Silent Auction Fuii Irish Dinner - BIG PLATE $10 LITTLE PLATE $6 CORNED BEEF CARROTS CABBAGE ONIONS POTATOES OPTIONAL-HOT DOG CHIPS & MacNcheese GIVING A HELPING HAND PLEASE VISIT WWW.KYOMISGIFT.ORG MEMBER OF BARRY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION ■ �Page 4 — Thursday, February 27, 2020 — The Hastings Banner imm Teacher shortage is real Can we grow our own resources? History in images Rather than write a book, Johnstown Township officials opted to paint the history of their area across the wall of the township hall. The mural includes everything from the founding of the Banfield General Store, a staple of the community, to a tribute to township firefighters. Here, Barry County Commissioner Howard Gibson and Court Administrator Ines Straube chat near the mural. We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Please include information such as where and when the photo was taken, who took the photo, and other relevant or anecdotal information. Do you remember? Local drumming legend Banner Feb.23,1972 Dedicated drummer Wolfram Fechner, West Carlton Center Road dairyman, is one of the areas’ most devoted musicians. He, along with five others, has played in the Hastings pit Orchestra since its inception for the pre­ sentation of “The Merry Widow" in 1959. Others who have played in the musicals presented by the high school choir, under the direction of Herbert Moyer, •include Fay Clardy, Dr. Fed Hauser, Dr. -Wesley Logan, Alfred Lowe and Mrs. David Kruko. Fechner could play any musical genre, ; performing with jazz bands, pit orchestras, polka bands and even rock bands, whenever •possible. He also was a drum teacher, having taught more than 300 area students from 1963 to 1981. One of those former students, .'Michael Brown (HHS 1982) has restored Fechner's drum set, which will be played during the Mary Youngs Concert Saturday evening at the Hastings Performing Arts Center. Have you For more than 60 years, Dave McIntyre has been a familiar voice at WBCH radio. People may not recognize his face, but ’they’re familiar with the sound of his voice. ' McIntyre, 82, the only son of John and Rosemary (Kellogg) McIntyre was born Jan. 1, 1938, in Kalamazoo. As a child raised during World War II with a father in the U.S. Army serving overseas in the 101st Airborne Division, his first memories were of time spent with his mother at his grandparents’ home in Kalamazoo while his father was away at war. Being an “Army brat,” young McIntyre did his fair share of moving around. In 1946, he and his mother moved to Fort Bragg, N.C., until 1950 when his dad was sent to Korea. McIntyre and his mom went back to Michigan to live with the same grandparents, by then living in Cloverdale, for a few years before being stationed in Japan from 1953 to 1956. Japan had a profound effect on Dave, who was in his mid-teens by then. His family lived all over the Japanese islands, he said, experiencing a culture far different from what he’d known. An event in Japan would be responsible for his lifelong fascination with the weather. “In 1954, living in Japan at Camp Crawford, in Hokkaido (the northern island), a severe typhoon swept into the Tsugaru Straits near the port of Hakodate sinking the Toya Maru ferry, killing between 1,150 and 1,170 passengers and crew. This was the deadliest ship disaster in Japanese history. I had been on board the Toya Maru several times prior to this disaster. I was stunned at Dave McIntyre how, one day, Mother Nature could be an angel and, the next day, a beast. “From that event, I have spent a lifetime being involved with the weather.” I His family returned to the U.S. in 1956, arriving at Fort Knox, Ky. However, McIntyre wanted to spend his senior year in familiar territory around friends and family. So. he moved to his grandparents’ home in Cloverdale and graduated from Delton Kellogg High School in 1957. During that last year of school, he rekindled a relationship with a girl he had met four years prior in eighth grade, Lois Elaine Warner. A year after high school, they were married. They have four children: John, 61, a U.S. Army veteran currently living in Thailand; Daniel, 60, of Delton; Cheryl (McIntyre) Laws, 59, of Delton; and Valerie McIntyre, 55, of Hastings. McIntyre’s greatest desire was to join the generations of his family who had served in the U.S. military. To his dismay, he was denied enlistment due to an asthmatic disorder. However, because he had been working in a Veterans Administration hospital after high school, he had an opportunity to pursue a career in radio and embrace his fascination with the weather, his other passion. In 1959, McIntyre started his career in broadcast radio at WBCH in Hastings as a disc jockey, spinning records and entertaining the public. In more recent years, he has moved into the newsroom. His title now is “air personnel.” He works every day from 4 to 8:30 a.m. which works for him, he said. He also is the climatologist at the National Weather Service climatological station in Hastings. For more than 30 years, he has reported daily weather observations, maintained records and reported to the National Weather Service. He has received awards from the NWS, U.S. Department of Commerce and Michigan State Police for his work. When asked about staying in Hastings versus going to a bigger city, he smiled and said, “I spent so much time as a young boy moving all over the place. I like it here and I Continued next page Residents and parents of children in the Maple Valley school system can feel proud of the district’s portrayal in a new documen­ tary film produced by the Public Broadcasting System’s Detroit affiliate and Regional Education Labs. Maple Valley is one of three rural areas highlighted in the compelling piece, “Heartbeat of the Community: Recruiting and Retaining Teachers in Rural School.” I recently attended a special viewing of the film followed by a panel discussion at Maple Valley High School. The documenta­ ry is now available on YouTube for every­ one to view, and I’d highly recommend it (searchable by its title). Maple Valley’s call to address the grow­ ing crisis of finding and retaining teachers - and especially the high-profile attention Maple Valley Superintendent Katherine Bertolini is providing the subject - is, to me, the mark of enlightened leadership. Unfortunately, the light those leaders would like to see at the end of the tunnel may be a rambling locomotive that could run over every rural school district in this state. In a report released by the state’s two largest teacher unions and a consortium of urban districts (it’s not just a rural problem), teacher shortages are cited as the leading factor in an increase of uncertified long­ term substitutes being used to fill a growing number of positions. According to the U.S Department of Education, enrollment in Michigan’s teacher prep programs has dropped by 70 percent in the past eight years. Some 16,000 fewer college students were majoring in K-12 education degree programs in the 2016-17 school year than in 2008-09, putting more pressure on schools already trying to find teachers to replace retirees and those looking for the exits. In a recent interview with Bridge Magazine, Michael Rice, Michigan’s new state school superintendent who came to the job from Kalamazoo Aug. 1, criticized the growing use of substitute teachers in public schools. “The most recent estimate of long-term substitute teachers running classrooms in public schools is about 2,500, which is a problem,” Rice said. “The goal ought not be to drop these numbers to zero, but 2,500 is not vaguely where we ought to be.” According to the Bridge Magazine piece, a rising number of substitutes are staffing classrooms with as little as 60 college cred­ its in education and no formal training. And school district officials all over the state say they have no one in the wings to fill a grow­ ing number of positions as teachers retire or leave the occupation altogether. So what can we do to solve this growing problem? “The solution is to improve the job,” Richard Ingersoll, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education, said. “Some approaches, such as raising teacher salaries or reducing class sizes, are working, but it costs a lot of money. Others are giving teachers a bigger role in how classrooms are run.” Some school districts in Michigan are responding to those financial challenges by “growing their own,” allowing high school students to work in elementary classrooms similar to a student teaching role. The pro­ grams allow a high school student to explore a teaching career, similar to a traditional co-op or job-training program without com­ mitting time or expense. “I think this would be a wonderful expe­ rience,” said Maple Valley math teacher Matt Powers. “Even if students decide they do not want to go into teaching, it saves them from going to college for a profession they will not enjoy. We’ve see so much suc­ cess with career and technical programs over the years when high school students are given the chance to work in a field of interest, and - with teacher shortages - why not use high school students who might want to pursue a teaching career? What do you Programs like this won’t solve the imme­ diate teacher shortage crisis, but they may pay big dividends in coming years by retain­ ing good teachers with passion for the pro­ fession. “Good teachers bring out the best in stu­ dents,” the late television journalist Charles Kuralt said. “Ask anyone, ‘Is there a teacher who made a difference in your life?’ and I’m sure each person will identify several teachers and coaches who impacted them during their early school years.” A segment in the PBS documentary shows two teens from Elk Rapids working with students in classrooms as teacher aides, demonstrating proof of Kuralt’s observa­ tion. In the role of student teachers, the two are building relationships with fellow stu­ dents and their mentor teacher, which could be the draw for these students to return to their home community after college. “It takes three years before teachers become comfortable with their jobs, but often they end up leaving before then,” Bertolini said. “Almost 40 percent of new teachers leave the profession in their first four years.” But if students had a chance to work in the classroom during high school, Bertolini said, they might get a better understanding of making a career of it. “The teacher shortage is real and grow­ ing,” especially in rural school districts, Bertolini said. In recent years, researchers and journalists who cover education have called attention to the growing shortage of K-12 teachers. They cite a variety of rea­ sons for the insufficiency, such as salaries, classroom size and excessive legislative oversight. But one thing we’ve not focused on is allowing high school students, who might be interested in teaching, to come into the classroom and work with students via on-the-job training. “When you study great teachers, you will learn much more from their caring and hard work than from their style,” said psychia­ trist William Glasser, who applied his theo­ ries to broader social issues, such as educa­ tion. In his book, Choice Theory, Glasser said, “Choosing the life you want to live and staying close to the people you need” will make a difference in how you succeed. By getting students in the classroom, watching how teachers teach and the impact they have on students, could be just what high school students need to choose teach­ ing as their career. Plus, it would give teach­ ers the advantage of having additional help in the classrooms to work one-on-one with students who need more attention. On-the-job classroom teacher training is not the sole solution to today’s teacher shortage, of course. Bertolini also discussed Maple Valley’s Teacher Foundation, another development program that is in the planning stages with cooperation from the Barry Community Foundation. Being explored are initiatives that could attract and retain teach­ ers to rural districts such as Maple Valley by offering assistance with paying back student loans or helping with other expenses in order for a teacher to live, work and enjoy the district where they’ve chosen to invest their talents. The documentary was an eye-opener. It’s too bad more parents and business leaders didn’t attend the special event because the problems educators face are real and will impact our communities for many years. We only get one chance to prepare our youth for the world after school. We must do a better job or pay the consequences. Fred Jacobs, CEO, J-Ad Graphics Inc. think? Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner. com. Results will be tabulated and reported along with a new question the following week. Last week: Should the presidential primary be conducted one day across the nation, rather than in individual states over a span of several months? Yes 25% No 75% For this week: The practice of declaw­ ing cats is banned in some states; others are now considering laws to make it illegal. Should Michigan outlaw it? □ Yes □ No �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 27, 2020 — Page 5 Newspaper provides enlightening coverage of jail/COA issues ; Don’t encumber voters with this baggage To the editor: Voters should not be labeled. But that continues with Trump supporters frequently being called racists: “Anger at being labeled racist is the new ‘cultural anxiety’ for Trump supporters,” title of article in The Washington Post by Eugene Scott Aug. 12,2019. It seems to have started with Hillary Clinton’s campaign speech 2016: “Basket of deplorables” is a phrase from a 2016 presidential election campaign speech delivered by Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton Sept. 9, 2016, at a campaign fundraising event, which she used to describe half of the supporters of her opponent, Republican nominee Donald J. Trump saying “They’re racist, sexist, homophobic, xenophobic.” Alexander Hamilton appears to have had a similar attitude toward the American “masses” in the 18th century, according to Ron Chemow in his biography of Hamilton. Chemow’s quote from his book page 232 (book at Hastings library): “Hamilton probably had the gravest doubts about the wisdom of the masses ...” Are there any new “labels” others can put on us voters? Yes, it’s likely, and by all sides of the political spectrum. But voters don’t like being labeled. Labeling individuals or groups of individuals does not encourage discussion of the issues. Kierkegaard (a little-known philosopher) once said, “When you label me, you negate me.” He meant that labeling someone attributed all kinds of good or bad innuendos to an individual that may not be true. I agree that labeling is negating and just plain wrong - whether you’re president, a candidate for president or just a voter like myself and everyone in between. Stephen Williams, Hastings To the editor: Over the past few weeks you have made some telling observations on our times; both locally and of our rapidly changing world in general. I found your editorial in the Feb. 13 Banner to be especially on point. I am one of those who attended the first “informational” meeting on the millage for the jail and Commission on Aging. I found the format of the first meeting to be exclusionary of the very people who were invited there to express their opinions on both very expensive topics. To hear later that the jail had been “over­ sold” and that the judicial system had avail­ able information especially on point and not shared with the county commission was very unsettling. To return to one of your earlier topics: The question of how important newspapers are was certainly answered with that revelation. To hear further, that the commission chanhad attempted to restrict the public comment session in their meetings was offensive and obviously ignorant on the chair’s part. There is no provision in the law that provides for governmental agencies to dictate the topics discussed in public comment. Time allowed and method can be set — but content cannot. There seems to be an ongoing ignorance — or is it disregard — of the public’s right to be heard at public meetings. I was especially offended by the very expensive process that was developed to con­ vey information to the public regarding the jail and COA. I am coming to believe that we have two monuments in the offing and it will be up to us to pay; while, at the same time, we will have little to say about how they are constructed. The jail specifications are too large and far-reaching in the context of pending legisla­ tion. The COA is attempting to enter into an adult day-care program for which they are not qualified; while there are facilities that could better provide that service already operating in the community. The Banner continues to provide a real and revealing service to the community. I hope you will be able to continue to pro­ vide even-handed and honest facts, stated in a manner that all in Barry County can read and x-* 'C 1 T4 0^0 -*■ The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; U.S. mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Gary Peters, Democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510­ 2202, phone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room 720, 110 Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 233­ 9150. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. am fine with where I’m at. Those guys at the major radio stations have a special talent, but so do I. “We’ve all got a special talent, and we all need to use it to the best of our ability no matter where we are,” he said. For his dedication and commitment to keeping the public informed and up to date, his love of entertainment and excellence in his field, Dave McIntyre is this week’s Banner Bright Light. Best advice every received: As you climb the ladder of success, be good to those you meet on the way up because you are going to meet those same people on the way back down. Favorite TV programs;, “NCIS” and “JAG.” I have a close association to the military. Favorite historic period: World War II. Favorite childhood memory: Traveling around the world with my father and mother. If I were president: No mpre free money to foreign governments. No more income tax, only a sales tax. And for those over 65, no more property taxes or taxing of retirement funds. Favorite board game: Monopoly. You learn how to make money work for you. Person I most admire: My spouse, Lois. Best song ever written: Our national anthem. Favorite book: The Bible. If I could meet anyone, living or dead: Gen. Omar Bradley. He was a people person. He commanded with love and respect. My greatest challenge: Staying positive. If I could change one thing: Make sure children would have three good, healthy meals a day. In our country, no child should go hungry. 1 \l Gerald Schmiedicke, Rutland Charter Township I Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads * Traditional and Cremation Services • Pre-Planning Services • Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible Serving All Faiths Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 269-945-3252 • www.girrbachfuneralhome. Family Owned and Operated Owner/Manager Owmri Scn ing Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for SO years Continued from previous page [Write Us A Letter: understand well into the future. HASTINGS AREA SCHOOL SYSTEM ANNOUNCES YOUNG KINDERGARTEN & KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION ROUNDUP REGISTRATION OF YOUNG KINDERGARTEN & KINDERGARTEN STUDENTS (children must be 5 on or before December 1st) for next school year will take place on Thursday, March 12th from 9:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Hastings Community Center, 520 W South St, Hastings, Michigan. It is not necessary to bring your child at the time of registration. Parents will be asked to complete an enrollment form and are asked to bring with them child's certified birth certificate, immunization record, and verification of residency BY STATE LAW immunizations and vision and hearing testing must be complete before school attendance in the fall. At the time of registration, parents will also be given an appointment for a vision and hearing test. Each week, the Banner profiles a person who makes the community shine. Do you know someone who should be featured because of volunteer work, fun-loving personality, for the stories he or she has to tell or any other reason? Send information to Newsroom, Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. THORriHPPLE P L H Y E R 8 iBojilfby.Mol Brooks by Knwrna* Meehan IMusICjTtieadtre international The Hastings BiUlllGI* Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 News and press releases: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com Frederic Jacobs Publisher & CEO Hank Schuuring CFO • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Ty Greenfield Mike Gilmore Chris Silverman Jennie Yonker Subscription Rates: $45 per year in Barry County • NEWSROOM • Rebecca Pierce (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor': Brett Bremer (Sports Editor) Greg Chandler Taylor Owens $50 per year in adjoining counties $55 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box 188 Hastings, Ml 49058-0188 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, Ml 49058 Thornapple Players will hold open auditions (high school seniors and up) on March 10, 2020 beginning at 7PM in the Dennison Performing Arts Center - 231 South Broadway (Use door on the Center Street side.) EIGHT PRINCIPAL ROLES If you are unable to attend the DIVERSE and active ensemble audition or have questions, WE ARE ALSO LOOKING FOR ‘STRONG* DANCERS. please call Norma Jean at 269-945-2332 TAP DANCING IS A PLUS. or Doug at 269 945 9249 to set up an alternate time BEFORE the scheduled audition date. Rehearsal dates and times 7-9:30PM (longer as show time approaches) Rehearsals Every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday Tech Rehearsal is Saturday, May 2 from 2-8PM. May 6 is open to the public dress rehearsal Curtain at 7PM Show Dates May 7,8,9 Curtain at 7PM May 10, Sunday matinee 2PM. „ Director-Julian Kratochvil Music Director-Doug Acker Producer-Norma Jean Acker 1^0/ O’”™" �Page 6 — Thursday, February 27, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Worship Together SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Rep answers questions about filing, payments, cards and more ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616-690­ 8609. HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1674 S. State Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 Phone 269-945­ 2285. Sunday morning service time: 10 a.m. with nursery and preschool available. FREEPORT BAPTIST CHURCH 380 County Line Rd., Freeport, MI 49325. (269) 760-1928. Pastor Ron. A traditional style of worship, no gimmicks, and friendly people welcome you to worship at "an old country church." Sunday School 9: 45 a.m. Sunday Worship 11 a.m. Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study and Prayer 7p.m. Give us the pleasure of meeting you! LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852­ 1783. Sunday service 10am. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. HASTINGS HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 2920 S. M-37 Hwy. (M-37 at M-79) Pastor Kim Metzer. Phone 269-945-4995. hastingshopeumc.org hastingshopeumc@gmail. com. We welcome YOU to join us on Sunday Mornings at 10:30 for worship! Find Us On Facebook! @ hastingshopeumc. PLEASANT VIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. MCCALLUM UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH 5505 Otis Lake Rd., Delton, MI 49046. Phone: 269-623­ 8226. New pastor - Jerald Jones. Sunday Service: 10: 31-11:46; Coffee Connection. Nursery, Children's ministry. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIA INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-795­ 2370 and the rectory number is 269-948-9327. Our church website is www.samchurch. org. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 765, (corner of Milo Rd. &S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11:30am, Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 to 7:30 pm. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616-731-5194. GREEN STREET UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green St., Hastings, MI 49058. Rev. Bryce Feighner Office Phone: 269­ 945.9574. Email: office. greenstreetumc@gmail.com. Sunday, Schedule - The Praise 9:30 a.m. ; The Word 10 a.m.; The Table 10:30 a.m. Nursery Care is available through age 4; PreK-8th grade Sunday School 10 a.m.; Sunday School for Adults at 11 a.m. Upright Revolt Youth Ministry (6th-12th grades) 5:30-7:30 p.m. FREE Community Meal every Tuesday at 5 p.m. Refer to Facebook for weather conditions. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30-8 p.m., AWANA (Children Kindergarten-5th Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948­ 8004 for information on MITT (Mothers in Training Together), Sports Ministries, Quilting, Ladies Bible Study. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel­ chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF HASTINGS Sharing Jesus with our community & the world! 405 N. M-37 Hwy., Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. www.firstchurchhastings. org. 9 a.m. Classes and Gatherings for All ages; 9:45 a.m. Worship (Children's Worship Offered); 10:45 a.m. Coffee Fellowship; 11:15 a.m. Coffee Talk with Pastor Dan. Follow us on Facebook. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of Who jesus Is To The World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy., P.O. Box 8, Hastings. Telephone 269­ 945-9121. Email hastfmc@ gmail.com. Website: www.hastingsfreemethodist.com. Pastor Brian Teed, Student Ministries Director, Emma Miller, Wor­ ship Director, Martha Stoetzel. Sundays: Nursery and tod­ dler (birth through age 3) care provided. SUNDAY MORN­ ING FAMILY HOUR WEL­ COMES ALL AGES AND STAGES OF LIFE AT 9:30 a.m. Deep Blue, Loving God, Loving Neighbor: Preschool age 3-5th Grade. Live: 6th-12th Grade. Adult Standard and Adult Elective classes. Coffee Talk: Fellowship Hall. Cookies at 10:05 a.m. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. & Children's Church age 4-4th grade dis­ missed during service. Youth Group at 6 p.m. 2nd Tuesday: Young Women's Small Group, 6 p.m. Wednesday: Women's Bible Study 6:30-7:30 p.m. KID'S CLUB: Feb. 5th-March 18th, 6:30-7:45 p.m. Thurs­ day: Adult Bible Study 10 a.m. For more information please contact the church or follow us on face book. Hastings 945-9554 Obituaries Dr. Rex Wieland, age 71, North Manchester, passed away February 22, 2020. Rex is survived by children, Heather (Matt) Howard, Kyle (Julia) Wieland, Heidi (Jennifer Howard) Wieland, and Kasha (Raju) Shah; nine grandchildren; sisters, Ann (Robert) Gump, and Tammy (Brian) Nelson. A celebration of Rex’s life will be held at Manchester University’s Cordier Auditorium on March 7, 2020. Visiting hours will be 1-3 with service to follow. Arrangements are entrusted to McKee Mortuary. Jacqueline Isabelle Healey GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH March 1 - Worship services at 8 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Nursery available both services. March 2 - Social Activities Mtg. 5:30 p.m. March 3 Executive Mtg. 6 p.m. March 4 - Lenten Luncheon noon, Grace Lutheran Church; Lenten Meal 6 p.m.; Lenten Service 7 p.m. Pastor Ken Scheck II. pastorken@gracehastings.org. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945­ 9414 or 945-2645, fax 269­ 945-2698. www.gracehastings.org. Facebook: Grace Lutheran Church-ELCA Hastings, MI. 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 still requires 40 credits (usually about 10 years of work). I recently applied for a replacement Social Security card, but I might be moving before it arrives in the mail. What should I do if I move before I get it? Once we have verified all your documents and processed your application, it takes approximately 10 to 14 days for you to receive your replacement Social Security card. If you move after applying for your new card, notify the post office of your change of address, and the post office will forward your card to your new address. If you do not receive your card, contact your local Social Security office. To get a replacement, you will have to resubmit your evidence of identity and U.S. citizenship, or your lawful immigra­ tion status and authority to work. You can learn more at socialsecurity.gov. I got married and I need to change my name in Social Security’s records. What do I do? If you change your name due to marriage or for any other reason, you’ll need to report the change and get a corrected Social Security card with your new name. You will need to fill out Form SS-5. You can get a copy of this form at socialsecurity.gov/ss5doc or by call­ ing our toll-free number 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). You’ll also need to provide the original marriage certificate showing your new and old names. You can mail or take the documentation to your local Social Security office. In some cases, we may need other forms of documentation as well. For more information, visit socialsecurity, gov/ssnumber. How do I schedule, reschedule, or cancel an appointment with Social Security? For many things, you don’t need an appoint­ ment to transact business with Social Security. For example, you don’t need an appointment to file for benefits or appeal a disability deci­ sion. You can file online at socialsecurity.gov for retirement, Medicare, spouses’ and dis­ ability benefits. If you don’t want to apply for benefits online, or if you need to speak to us for any other reason, you can schedule, reschedule, or cancel an appointment by calling 800-772­ 1213 (TTY 800-325-0778) between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday; or by contacting your local Social Security office. I received an email that says it’s from Social Security, but I’m not so sure. They want me to reply with my Social Security number, date of birth and mother’s maiden name for “verification.” Did it really come from Social Security? No. Social Security will not send you an email asking you to share your personal infor­ mation, such as your Social Security number, date of birth or other private information. Beware of such scams — they’re after your information so they can use it for their own benefit. When in doubt, or if you have any questions about correspondence you receive from Social Security, contact your local Social Security office or call 800-772-1213 (TTY 800-325-0778) to see whether we really need any information from you. I’ve decided I want to retire. Now what do Ido? The fastest and easiest way to apply for retirement benefits is to go to socialsecurity, gov/retireonline. Use our online application to apply for Social Security retirement or spous­ es’ benefits. To do so, you must be at least 61 years and 9 months old; want to start your benefits in the next four months; and live in the United States or one of its common­ wealths or territories. I have never worked outside of the home, but my spouse has. What will my benefits be? You can be entitled to as much as one-half of your spouse’s benefit amount when you reach full retirement age. If you decide to receive Social Security retirement benefits before you reach full retirement age, the amount of your benefit is reduced. The amount of reduction depends on when you will reach full retirement age. For example, if your full retirement age is 66, you can get 35 percent of your spouse’s unreduced benefit at age 62 (a permanent reduction); if your full retirement age is 67, you can get 32.5 percent of your spouse’s unreduced benefit at age 62 (a permanent reduction). The amount of your benefit increases if your entitlement begins at a later age, up to the maximum of 50 percent at full retirement age. However, if you are taking care of a child who is under age 16 or who receives Social Security disability benefits on your spouse’s record, you get the full spouse’s benefits, regardless of your age. Learn more about retirement benefits at socialsecurity.gov/ retirement. Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525, or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. (\skDoctor * Universe Discover God’s Grace with, us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m. 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 What is the average Social Security retire­ ment payment a person receives each month? The average monthly Social Security bene­ fit for a retired worker in 2020 is $1,503. The average monthly Social Security benefit for a disabled worker in 2020 is $1,258. As a reminder, eligibility for retirement benefits WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Kathy Smith. Sunday Worship 9:15 am This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: 1351 North M-43 Hwy. How much will I receive if 1 qualify for Supplemental Security Income benefits? The amount of your SSI benefit depends on where you live and how much income you have. The maximum SSI payment varies nationwide. For 2020, the maximum federal SSI payment for an eligible individual is $783 a month and $1,175 a month for an eligible couple. However, many states add money to the basic payment. For more information, go to socialsecurity.gov/ssi. Edge of the universe Dr. Universe: Where does the universe end? Oriah, 8, Pullman, Wash. Jacqueline Isabelle Healey, 80, of Johnstown Twp., passed away Friday, Feb. 21, 2020 at Glenn Arbor Hospice Residence. She was bom July 10, 1939 in Marshall, the daughter of George Lawson and Nellie Louise (Spillane) Ross. Jacqueline married Jan J. Healey on September 5, 1959 and he preceded her in death on May 17, 2017. She enjoyed crocheting, reading, and cooking. Jacqueline loved spending time with her grandchildren and attending their sporting events. She is survived by her children, Sheri (Pat) Peavey, Lorri (Eric) Koon, Timothy (Tammy) Healey, and Mathew Healey; grandchildren, Zach, Dustin, Casey, Jackie, Dakota, Nick, Taylor, and Katie: 12 great grandchildren; siblings, Charles (Marge) Ross and Dorene Smith; sister-in-law, Janeene Lemke; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and brothers-in-law, Michael Smith, Sr. and Bill Lemke. Visitation will be held Monday, March 2, 2020, from noon to 1 p.m. with the funeral service to immediately follow at 1 p.m. at Bachman Hebble Funeral Service with Pastor Jeffery Worden of Hickory Comers Bible Church officiating. Memorial tributes may be made to Glenn Arbor Hospice Residence. Arrangements by the Bachman Hebble Funeral Service. (269)965-5145 www.bachmanhebble.com Dear Oriah, When you look up at the night sky, it can feel like the universe is a big blanket of stars above you. But unlike a blanket, the uni­ verse doesn’t have corners or edges. Far beyond what humans can see, the universe keeps going. As far as humans know, it never stops. After I read your question, I went straight to my friend Michael Allen to learn more. He is a senior instructor of physics and astronomy at Washington State University. The universe is bigger than the biggest thing you’ve ever seen. It’s bigger than the biggest thing you can imagine. It’s so big that even your question has more than one very big answer. Allen explained that you can think of the universe kind of like a rubber band. If you look at a rubber band’s flat surface, you can see it has no beginning and no end. It keeps going around and around in a loop. Imagine you drew dots on that rubber band. If you pull on the rubber band, what happens? The rubber band stretches, and the dots move further apart. The universe is like that. The distance between all of its galaxies, planets and stars is stretching all the time, like dots on a rubber band. It never ends, but it’s also constantly expanding. Scientists don’t think there is a true edge of the universe. But there’s an end to what humans can see of the universe. This is called the edge of the observable universe. It’s the farthest we can see, based on how we get information from light. Everything you see depends on light bouncing off objects. Light reflects off the things around you, and your eye absorbs it. When you look at your hand, you see your hand in that exact moment. But when you look at a star, you’re actually seeing that star in the past. That’s because the light has to travel a very long time to reach your eyes. The farther away the star, the longer it takes. It takes light from the nearest star, the Sun, eight minutes to get to our eyes. Light from the next nearest star, Proxima Centauri, takes about four years to get to us! Light moves fast - about 186,000 miles per second - but the universe is very big. So, the farthest edge of the observable universe is the oldest light we can see: about 13.8 billion years in the past. But that edge is just what we can see from Earth. Earth isn’t the center of the universe. It’s just one location. The edge of the observable universe depends on where you are. If we were somewhere else in the universe, we would have a different view. No matter where you are, you can think of yourself as a time traveler, of sorts. When you gaze up at the stars, you’re looking up at the past. Dr. Universe Do you have a question ? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University’s resident scientist and writer at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu or visit her web­ site, askdruniverse .com. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 27, 2020 — Page 7 THEATER, from page 1 ■Newborn babies Greyson Edward Blankenship, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on January 29, 2020 to Rachel Huffman and Travis Edward Blankenship of Hastings. Emmett James Price, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on February 3,2020 to Sarah Price and Aaron Price of Lake Odessa. Angie Seeber and Doug Acker sing “Stop Dragging My Heart Around” at the 2019 benefit concert. This year’s theme is “Made in Michigan,” featuring songs made popu­ lar by artists with ties to the Great Lakes State. (File photo) Mary Youngs concert is ‘Made in Michigan affair Greg Chandler Staff Writer The 13th annual Mary Youngs Benefit Concert Feb. 29 at the Hastings Performing Arts Center will have a “Made in Michigan” theme. The concert will feature Michigan-themed songs and artists, ranging from Motown legends, such as Stevie Wonder and The Temptations, to rock artists such as Bob Seger, Grand Funk Railroad and the White Stripes. Music will begin at 7 p.m. The concert is the primary funding source for the Mary Youngs Scholarship Fund, which provides $1,000 scholarships annually to two Hastings High School seniors who have excelled in both music and athletics during their high school years. Mary Youngs was a speech pathologist and teacher for the Hastings Area Schools, and later a principal at Northeastern Elementary School. She died unexpectedly in 2006. “Mary believed in a liberal education promoting academics, athletics and the arts,” said her husband, Steve Youngs, who has organized the annual concert in her memory. “This scholarship began in order to award students for their accomplishments in these areas.” More than $25,000 in scholarship funding has been awarded since lhe Youngs Scholarship was established. Here’s the list of songs that will be performed at the concert: “Get Ready” (Temptations) - entire cast. “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” (Stevie Wonder) - Ellie Youngs. “A Change is Gonna Come” (Sam Cooke) - Erin Merritt. “Rocket 88” (Ike Turner) - Steve Youngs. “Like A Prayer” (Madonna) - Angie Seeber “Ribbon in the Sky” (Stevie Wonder) Fred Jacobs. “Old Time Rock ‘n’ Roll” (Bob Seger) Jason Drake. “Do You Know Where You’re Going To?” (Diana Ross) - Kelly Maurer. “Michigan and Again” (The Accidentals) - Belle Youngs. “Ramblin’, Gamblin’ Man” (Bob Seger) - Gene Greenfield. “Don’t Cry for Me, Argentina” (Madonna) - Cindy Olson. “Don’t Stop Believin’” (Journey) Haywood Sisters. “No More Mr. Nice Guy” (Alice Cooper) - Colleen Acker. “Turn the Page” (Bob Seger) - Brian Calley. “Victory for MSU” (Michigan State fight song)/“The Victors” (Michigan fight song) Hastings High School band. “My Guy” (Mary Wells) - women of the show. “My Girl” (Temptations) - Gene Greenfield and the Doo-Wop Guys. “In the Cold, Cold Night” (White Stripes) - Angie Seeber. “Motown Medley” (Songs written by Motown’s Holland/Dozier/Holland songwriting team) - Beth Lepak. “Never Can Say Goodbye” (Jackson 5) Kelly Maurer. “Chain of Fools” (Aretha Franklin) - Erin Merritt. “Fred Bear” (Ted Nugent) - Tim and Colleen Acker. “We’ve Got Tonight” (Bob Seger) - Brian Calley. “I Just Called to Say I Love You” (Stevie Wonder) - Ellie Youngs. “Locomotion” (Grand Funk Railroad) Youngs/Hay wood. “Heat Wave” (Martha Reeves and the Vandellas) - Alex Steward and Hannah Johnson (tribute song to Wolfram Fechner, Tom Alderson on drums) “One Piece at A Time” (Johnny Cash) Chase Youngs. “Night Moves” (Bob Seger) - Doug Acker. “That's What Friends Are For” (Stevie Wonder/Elton John/Dionne Warwick/Gladys Knight) - Fred Jacobs. “Dancing in the Street” (Martha Reeves and the Vandellas) - entire cast. While there is no admission charge for the concert, donations are highly encouraged. Donations will be collected at the door or on the way out. Checks may also be made to the Mary Youngs Scholarship Fund, or can be mailed to the Barry Community Foundation, 231 S. Broadway, Hastings, 49058. Checks made to the foundation should include “Mary Youngs” in the memo line. New Expo showcasing local businesses, services this week The importance of trustworthy local busi­ nesses and top-notch services - and what they contribute to the Barry County community is the reason for the first Home & Business Expo taking place next weekend. The event will be at the Barry Expo Center, 1350 M-37 Highway, Hastings, from 2 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 29; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 4. This Expo is the brainchild of Business in Barry, a networking group formed in 2019 to strengthen relationships between local busi­ nesses and create a referral network. BIB developed a plan for an annual home and business expo to boost community aware­ ness of all the goods and services local busi­ nesses provide. The goal was to have only local Barry County businesses represented at the Expo. A small suggested donation for entrance to the event will go to the nonprofit organizations assisting at the entrance to the show - and any proceeds will be donated back to the commu­ nity after the event. BIB members point out that residents don’t have to go far to find great products and ser­ vices - and they’re contributing to the health and vitality of their community when they patronize local businesses. The timing of next weekend’s event is no accident. With winter on the wane and spring just around the comer, the Expo will offer a variety of ideas for renters and homeowners who want to spiff up their places or add value to their properties and get to know the ser­ vices available in Barry County. Seasonal Grille will be on site with food and drinks available. Local brews and wines will be provided by Glass Creek Winery & Brewery. Activities will include drawings for prizes, games and a bounce house. Attendees can purchase products and ser­ vices at the show from a range of vendors, including Affordable Metal Roofing, Bailtek Carpet Cleaning & Water Damage, Bath Planet, Bay to Bay Building Concepts, Bleam Eavestroughing, Brown’s Carpet One, Budget Blinds, Bullseye Pest Defense, Cabinets Plus, Coughlin Home Improvement, DSN Satellite, Foam Technology Pros LLC, Greenridge Realty, Hydro Air, JD Cabinetry, LeafFilter Gutter Protection, Matt Spencer Automotive, Miller Real Estate, Razors Edge, RB Excavating, Renaissance Roofing & Exteriors, Source Industries Machining, State Farm Tai Gearhart Agency, Verizon Cellular and more. Since it started, BIB has continued to grow, with members representing financial institu­ tions, appliances, bedding, auto repair, salons, accounting and tax services, attorneys, print­ ing, publishing and communications, machin­ ing and engineering companies, building con­ tractors, roofing and awnings, real estate agents, pest management, insurance agents, hydraulic services, web hosting, excavating, painting, screen-printing and embroidery. BIB’s mission is to represent “a diverse group of trustworthy business professionals who provide goods and services for the sur­ rounding communities. The goal of the group is mutual support for each other as we hold one another accountable to provide outstand­ ing and honest service at a competitive price.” Gideon Joseph, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on February 6, 2020 to Kelsey Marie Huss and Nathan Wendell Huss of Hastings. Jaxson Montes, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on February 6, 2020 to Kayla Burger and Drew Montes of Vermontville. Shea Beckham Smith, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on February 4, 2020 to Marie Kate Smith and Jared James Smith of Olivet. River Nichole Figg, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on February 8, 2020 to Jenny Dean and Austin Figg, of Nashville. Journi Lee Ann McIntyre, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on February 5, 2020 to Hailey Woodall and Kadin McIntyre of Nashville. Lincoln Thomas McKinney, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on Feb. 12, 2020 to Stephanie McKinney and Thomas McKinney of Hastings. sfc Joseph Smith, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on February 5, 2020 to Erika Smith and Ryan Smith of Hastings. Call any time to place your Hastings Banner classified ad Cheyenne Lynn Fox, Middleville and Justen Allen Zimmerman, Middleville Robert Jason Trader, Delton and Cathy Irene Wilson, Delton CANADIAN RIVED 4,5,6,7 night cruises on the St. Lawrence anti Ottawa rivers aboard the nostalgic replica steamboat CANADIAN EMPRESS 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 Quebec City, Ottawa, Kingston departures Call now to request our travel brochure www.StLawrenceCruiseLines.com 1 -800-267-7868 253 Ontario St., Suite 200 Kingston, ON K7L 224 K. A. MUELLER ACCOUNTING 221 South Jefferson Street Hastings, Michigan (269) 945-3547 www.kamuelleraccounting.com ’neo #2168740 NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held Feb. 25, 2020, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. 137712 PiHar- NO MORE GUTTER CLEANING, OR YOUR MONEY BACK GUARANTEED| GUTTER PROTECTION mi ^Winter FREE ESTIMATES! 1-855-909-2254 ____________ Promo Number: 285 Mon-Thurs: 8am-11pm, Fri-Sat: 8am-5pm, Sun: 2pm-8pm EST CSLB# 1035795 DOPL #10783658-5501 ■ License# 7656 License# 50145 License# 41354 License# 99338 License# 128344 License# 218294 License# 603 233 977 License# 2102212986 License# 2106212946 License# 2705132153A License# LEAFFNW822JZ License# WV056912 License# WC-29998-H17 Nassau HIC License# H01067000 Registration# ‘ 76447 Registra­ tion# HIC.0649905 Registration# C127229 Registration# C127230 Registration# 366920918 Registration# PC6475 Registra­ tion# IR731804 Registration# 13VH09953900 Registration# PA069383 Suffolk HIC License# 52229-H DENTAL ASSISTANT ‘Bazaar > | C , SATURDAY FEBRUARY 29™ O ‘ I at HASTINGS ELKS LODGE Ka W 102 E Woodlawn Ave., Hastings, Ml 49058 10:00 am -3:00 pm NEEDED for 8-10 week maternity leave I have a dental assistant who will be off for maternity leave in April and May 2020. I need someone to work 8-10 weeks full time. I am willing to train the right person. They will then have a skill set for a job with another dentist. I can not offer a job past the maternity leave, but you will be able to find a good job in the dental field after this training. Please send resume to : Dental Assistant 1675 S. M-37 Hwy. Hastings, MI 49058 DIESEL MECHANIC The Barry County Road Commission has an opening for a full time mechanic position. A high school diploma or general education degree (GED) with 5+ years of mechanic expe­ rience is required, CDL A or ability to obtain one. Applications can be picked up at the Barry County Road Commission office (phone 269­ 945-3449) at 1725 W. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml between 6:00 AM & 4:00 PM. A complete job description will be provided at the time of appli­ cation. Starting hourly wage will be $20.41 with advancement after one year of probation to $22.41. Tools and benefits including 401K provided, more information available upon request. The Barry County Road Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 137918 PERMANENT METAL ROOFING We're looking for a few good men. #35SeasonsStrong We have openings for male srngers in 2020! Marriage JCicenses was being added. The Hastings 4 began as the Brach Theater in October 1916. It was built at a cost of $40,000, and at the time, had 700 seats and featured an enameled white terra cotta front, tiled floors, and marble walls in the lobby. A crowd of 1,400 people showed up at the Brach for its opening. The first picture shown there was a silent film titled “The Light at Dusk.” The Brach changed its name in the 1920s to the Strand Theater. Fred Teller purchased the theater in 1951 but kept the Strand name. The Strand closed in 1984. A meeting of creditors, also known as a 341 meeting in the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, is scheduled for Tuesday, March 24, Hagan said. The Hastings 4 will continue to show movies for the time being. Current shows include “Call of the Wild,” “Doolittle” and “Sonic the Hedgehog.” The Banner attempted to contact Tyrone Byrum, a Grand Rapids attorney who is representing Goodrich in the bankruptcy case, but did not receive a call back. Join us for a NO COMMITMENT rehearsal: American Metal Roofs Q3H0MES NEEDED! FOR NATIONAL HomWner _____________ Danny Lipford_________ SHOWCASE HOME DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE! *NOT A Monday, March 9*7 p.m. Sunfield United Brethren Church 8436 W. Grand Ledge Hwy., Sunfield, MI 48890 Questions? Email us: http://www.lacsmusic.org lacsmusic@gmail.com Scan code to go to our website: www.lacmusic.org AmericanMetalRoofs.com/TV �Page 8 — Thursday, February 27, 2020 — The Hastings Banner JlcJee, (O&eAAa Elaine Garlock Yesterday marked the observance of Ash Wednesday in Christian churches across the world. The latest twist is for churches to provide drive-through administration of the ashes. This is being done in Grand Rapids and Lansing. Other churches usually have this in the evening. The season of Lent comes next for 40 days preceding Easter. Fat Tuesday is also observed in some circles. At Central United Methodist Church, members observed Fat Sunday instead, with choice desserts served at coffee hour time. The museum on Emerson Street should be a fun place to visit this weekend with an estate sale taking place. The tables are filled with treasures from the Garlinger house on Fourth Avenue. Hidden treasures from three generations are on display for sale. A few books in German language were spotted along with glassware, Avon containers, dishes but no clothing. There are some very unique items. Friday, March 6, will bring a chili supper at the museum, sponsored by the local historical society. Breads and desserts also will be available. The tai chi exercise at the library was canceled last week because of there being no school at Ionia. The same date the Tri-River Museum group also was canceled because of school closings on the premise that it was not save for school buses, it is not safe for people to attend the museum group. Household hint: In lieu of brown sugar for baking recipes, one can substitute a coup of white sugar and a tablespoon of molasses. Why didn’t I think of that? One wonders what will be the outcome of a warmer-than-usual winter with February temperatures in the 20s above freezing. Is cold weather waiting in the wings to hit us later or is this the coldest we can expect for early 2020. What is happening to the fallplanted wheat crop, which is dependent on winter snow cover for the proper freeze/thaw cycle. With lake and river water levels at high points, one wonders where the water from spring rains will go. CITY OF HASTINGS PUBLIC NOTICE ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 582 The undersigned, being the duly qualified and acting Clerk of the City of Hastings, Michigan, does hereby certify that ORDINANCE NO. 582: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 90 OF THE HASTINGS CODE OF 1970, AS AMENDED, TO AMEND THE ZONING MAP OF THE CITY LIMITS. was adopted by the City Council of the City of Hastings at a regular meeting on the 24TH day of February, 2020. A complete copy of this Ordinance is available for review at the office of the City Clerk at City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Jane M. Saurman City Clerk 138046 NOTICE TO ACCEPT BIDS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: The Rutland Charter Township Board is now accepting bids for the repair and resurfacing of the roads at the Rutland Charter Township Cemetery. Bids should include; • One bid should include gravel • One bid should include crushed limestone (or equivalent) • Diagrams and road footage needed for the quotes can be picked up at the Township Hall All bidders must carry their own insurance and have all their own equipment. Bids will be accepted by mail or in person at the Township Hall, located at 2461 Heath Road, Hastings 49058 Monday thru Thursday between 9:00am and 3:00pm. All bids must be submitted by March 30,2020 at 12:00 p.m. The Rutland Charter Township Board reserves the right to reject any bids submitted that do not meet the boards approval. 137798 Robin J. Hawthorne, Clerk Rutland Charter Township 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 948-2194 BOARD OF REVIEW MEETING SCHEDULE THE ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP BOARD OF REVIEW will be held at the Orangeville Township Hall, 7350 Lindsey Rd. Plainwell Mi. 49080 on the following dates. Tuesday March 3, Organizational Meeting - 4:00 pm Monday, March 9, Appeal Hearing - 9:00 am to 12:00 noon & 1:00pm to 4:00 pm Tuesday March 10, Appeal Hearing - 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm, & 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm The Board of Review will meet as many more days as deemed necessary to hear questions, protests and to equalize the 2020 assessments. By Board resolution, residents are able to protest by letter, provided protest letter is received by March 10, 2020 - 12:00 noon. Written protests should be mailed to; BOARD OF REVIEW 7350 LINDSEY RD. PLAINWELL Ml. 49080 Attorney General Dana Nessel Tuesday announced Michigan has joined a bipartisan, multistate investigation of Juul Labs. The 39-state coalition is investigating Juul’s marketing and sales practices, including targeting of youth, claims regarding nicotine content, and statements regarding risks, safety and effectiveness as a smoking cessation device. “The health and safety of our youth should not be jeopardized by false advertising and deceptive marketing tactics,” Nessel said. “Companies that mislead customers about their products are not good corporate actors, and they must be held accountable when they engage in this behavior.” While traditional cigarette use has plummeted among youth, vaping is skyrocketing. A recent survey of Michigan high schoolers showed a growing trend in the number of students who admitted to using an electronic vaping product in the past 30 days. Hillsdale County was the only one out of the 49 counties surveyed that showed a decrease from the 2015-16 academic year to the 2017­ 18 year. However, data from 2015-16 was not available for six counties. In that survey, Clinton and Oceana counties showed the largest increase of 118 percent - going from 11.2 percent and 8.7 percent, respectively, of students who admitted to using vaping products in the past month in 2015-16 to 24.4 percent and 19 percent, respectively, in 2017-18. The highest percentage of use for 2017-18 was reported in Grand Traverse County at 38.5 percent, with the lowest in Newaygo County at 12.7 percent. “Michigan has seen an explosive and unprecedented increase in youth vaping, and there is no question that marketing and availability of flavors directly contributed to this epidemic,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services; “We have to hold these companies accountable and do everything we can to keep vaping products out of the hands of youth.” .I According to the FDA’s National Youth Tobacco Survey, e-cigarettes were the most commonly ever used tobacco product,among U.S. middle and high school students overall (35 percent, 9.4 million), More than 5 million youth are currently using e-cigarettes, up from 3.6 million in 2018, either daily or frequently “meaning 20 or more days per month.” E-cigarettes were the most commonly used flavored tobacco product (68.8 percent of current e-cigarette users, 3.7 million). More information on vaping in Michigan can be found on the MDHHS website. HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Friday, Feb. 28 - preschool story time, 10:30-11 a.m.; teen advisory board meeting, 4-5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 29 - board games and Dungeons and Dragons group, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday, March 2 - Quilting Passions, 10 a.m.-l p.m.; library board of directors meet­ ing, 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 3 - Toddler Time, 10:30­ 11 a.m.; Great Decisions: Televised - Justice in the Face of Climate Change, noon-1 p.m.; Great Decisions foreign affairs discussion, 1:30-3:30; mahjong club, chess club and euchre, 5:30 p.m. Thursday, March 5 - Baby Cafe, 10 a.m.noon; Movie Memories and Milestones watches 1951 film starring Gene Kelly, Leslie Caron and Oscar Levant, 5 p.m. More information about these and other events is available by calling the library, 269­ 945-4263. Financial FOCUS Provided by the Barry County offices of Edward Jones Member SIPC Kevin Beck, AAMS® Andrew Cove, AAMS® 400 W. State St., Suite B Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-4702 421 W. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-3553 Avoid these estate planning mistakes You save and invest to meet a variety of goals during your lifetime: college for your children, long vacations, a comfortable retirement, and so on. But you probably also want to leave something behind - to your loved ones and, possibly, to the charitable organizations you support. To do so, you’ll need to develop a comprehensive estate plan, but to make that plan work, you must avoid some common mistakes. Here are a few of these pitfalls you’ll want to avoid: • Not writing a will - If you were to die “intestate” - without a last will and testament - the state in which you live would determine how your property was distributed. And the state’s decisions may not match what you had in mind at all. Furthermore, a will is where you would name guardians for your minor children. • Not going beyond a will - While a will is an essential component of estate planning, it’s often not enough. You may need to create other documents, such as a living trust, which, among other benefits, enables your estate to avoid probate, a time-consuming and public process that can lead to disputes among your heirs and others. And a living trust lets you place highly specific conditions on how and when you want your assets distributed. You might also consider other legal documents, including a power of attorney, which allows you to appoint a person or organization to handle your affairs if you can’t do so yourself, and a health care directive, which lets you name someone to make health care decisions on your behalf, should you become physically or mentally incapacitated. • Choosing the wrong executor - An executor is responsible for distributing property to your beneficiaries and paying off any debts and taxes your estate may owe, among other tasks. Because the role of executor is so important, you need to choose someone who is reliable, competent and trustworthy. It’s certainly possible to find such an individual in your own family, but many people choose someone who is either conflicted, too busy or simply not up to the task. If you have doubts about picking a good executor, you may want to turn to a trust company. The costs likely will be higher than if you chose a family member, but the results may be much better. • Not naming proper beneficiaries Many of your assets - 401(k), IRA, life insurance and so on - require you to name a beneficiary. These beneficiary designations are powerful, often superseding the instructions in your will If circumstances change in your life, such as new children, or divorce or remarriage, you may well want to change beneficiaries. It’s easy to do - but it’s also easy to overlook. • Not updating ownership, of assets - A change in your family situation or changes in the laws governing income and estate taxes could require you to update ownership designations of financial assets. And here’s perhaps the biggest mistake of all: not understanding what’s in your estate plan. You need to work closely with your tax, legal and financial professionals to create a plan you fully comprehend and can communicate effectively to your loved ones. Surprises are often pleasant in many areas of life - but estate planning is not one of them. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. TOWNSHIP OF HOPE Notice of Budget Public Hearing The Hope Township Board will hold a public hearing on the proposed township budget for fiscal year 2020-21 at 5463 South M-43 Hwy., Hastings, MI, on Monday, March 16, 2020, at 6:30 p.m., the Regular Board meeting to follow. THE PROPERTY TAX MILLAGE RATE PROPOSED TO BE LEVIED TO SUPPORT THE PROPOSED BUDGET WILL BE A SUBJECT OF THIS HEARING. A copy of the budget is available for public inspection at the Township hall. This notice is posted in compliance with PA267 of 1976 as amended (Open Meetings Act), MCLA41.72a (2) (3) and the Americans with Disabilities Act. (ADA) The Hope Township Board will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting upon seven days notice to the Hope Township Board. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Hope Township Board by writing or calling the following: 138033 Deborah Jackson Hope Township Clerk 5463 S M-43 Hwy. Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 948-2464 BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP BUDGET PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Baltimore Township Board will hold a public hearing on the proposed township budget for the fiscal year 2020-2021 at the Baltimore Township hall located at 3100 E. Dowling Rd., Hastings, MI on Thursday, March 26, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. ; THE PROPERTY TAX MILLAGE RATE PROPOSED TO BE LEVIED TO SUPPORT THE PROPOSED BUDGET WILL BE A SUBJECT OF THE HEARING. ' A copy of the budget is available for public inspection by calling the Township Supervisor, Chad VanSyckle, @ 269-838-0536. The tentative ratios and the estimated multipliers for each class of real property and personal property for 2017 are as follows; 44.64 %..................... ........... Agricultural................. ........... 47.83% ..................... Commercial............................ 48.06 %..................... ........... Industrial ................ ........... Residential ............... ............ 48.46 %..................... ........... Personal .......... ................. 50.00 %..................... Michigan AG announces bipartisan, multistate investigation of Juul 1.12008 1.04537 1.04037 1.03178 1.0000 (ADA) Americans with Disabilities Notice Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Clerk at least seven (7) days in advance of hearing. This notice posted in Compliance with PA 267 of 1976 as amended (Open Meetings Act) MCLA41.72a (2)(3) and with the Americans with Disabilities Act Contacts - Clerk - Mel Risner: 269-664-4522 Supervisor- Thomas Rook: 616-299-6019 137289 GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 269-945-9554 for more information. This notice is posted in compliance with Public Act 267 of the 1976 amended MCL 41.72a (2) (3) and the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Baltimore Township board will provi de necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting upon Ten (10) days notice to the Baltimore Township Board. NOTE: Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or service should contact the Baltimore Township Clerk by writing or calling Penelope Ypma, 6200 Henry Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. Telephone 269-945-3228. Penelope Ypma Baltimore Township Clerk ■ 137714... �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 27, 2020 — Page 9 I fl look book at the stories and columns on local history In the Hastings Banner TURNING BACK THE PAGES « New arrivals, old friends add to 1903 column The Feb. 26,1903, Hastings Herald - C.F. Field, editor and proprietor - had a mix of news in its “Local and Personal" column. The feature truly was local and personal, with bits of news on people visiting town or leaving, ill or recovering, deaths and births. Mixed in were ads from local businesses, items more along the line of police news and subtle jabs at people or institutions. California BEST PERSONALLY CONDUCTED TOURIST EXCURSIONS Leave CHICAGO TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS VIA THE All the reliable patent medicines advertised in this paper are sold by W.H. Goodyear, Druggist. Established July 1,1976. Miss Sarah Horton is in Chicago. Louis Wardell came home Thursday from Grand Rapids. Dr. George Waddle of Kalamazoo was in this city Saturday. Bom Friday to Mr. and Mrs. Will Martin, an 8 Vi-pound daughter. Miss Elizabeth Field returned Monday from a visit in Clinton. Bert Scott of Grand Rapids was in the city the first of the week. Bom Monday to Mr. and Mrs. Walter Lampman, a 7 1/2-pound son. If you have any wants, make them known in the Herald “want” column. Mrs. Liberty Warner returned Monday from a week’s visit in Coats Grove. There will be a special meeting of the L.O.T.M. [possibly Ladies of the Maccabees] Saturday evening, Feb. 28. Leonard Garver, in Jean Valjean, Saturday evening, March 7, at the opera house. John Russ of Oklahoma City, Okla., is visiting his family and renewing old acquaintances. Miss Mae Brosseau was the guest of her brother Theo in Kalamazoo Friday and Saturday. There will be a meeting of the Hastings Women’s Club at the usual place Friday, the 27th. James Mason is at home form Chicago on account of sickness. He will remain here for a month. R.C. Fuller started Monday on a three weeks’ trip in Kentucky in the interest of the table company. Miss Dorothy Miller of Grand Rapids arrived in this city last Friday for a few weeks’ visit with Miss Florence Maus. For sale - farm of 132 acres, five miles north of city; will take for part payment city property. Inquire of W.D. Cortright, Lake Odessa. E.H. Trumper, traveling salesman for H.J. Leonard Mfg. Co., of Beloit, Wis., was the guest of his brother, Peter Trumper, and family over Sunday. Manager McElwain of the Citizens Telephone Company is in Lansing today attending a meeting of the state association of independent telephone companies. The postponed February meeting of the W.F.M.S. [Woman’s Foreign Missionary Society] of the Methodist Episcopal Church will be in the church parlors Wednesday, March 4. A cordial invitation is extended to all. The Hastings Musical Club will give an informal birthday party next Tuesday evening at the club from 7:30 to 10 o’clock. Each member has the privilege of inviting one guest. We have just received a nice line of ladies’ furnishing goods, skirts, suits, waists and underwear, which we expect to make a specialty. Please call and see them. H.&M. Withey. Hubbell Stilson returned Saturday from Battle Creek where he has been working on the electric railway. Right Rev. Geo. D. Gillespie of Grand Rapids was in the city yesterday to see Rev. J.W. Bancroft, who is very sick. [Joseph Webb Bancroft, age 77, died the day the paper was distributed. The death of the Episcopal priest was reported in the March 5 Herald] Mrs. Will [Orpha] Sage of Grand Rapids was called to this city Saturday by the serious illness of her mother, Mrs. Henry Wentworth. [Phylena Wentworth evidently recovered and lived another 24 years, until April 19,1927.] Homer Shively, after 39 days’ sickness in Butterworth Hospital, Grand Rapids, was discharged last Friday. He is now visiting in this city. - GREAT ROCK ISLAND ROUTE t and Scenic Line, Tourist Car via Southern Route leave Chicago every Tuesday. Daily First-Class Sleeper Through Be tween Chicago and San Francisco Crossing the best scenery of the Rock ies and Sierra Nevadas by daylight Direct connection to Los Angeles. Best dining car service through. Write for information and literature co F. D. Lyon, Trav. Pass. Agt., 11 Fort St., West. Detroit, Mich. John Sebastian, G. P. A., Chicago. Travel within the county, state and even across the country might be fodder for the “Local and Personal” columns in the Hastings Herald. This small advertisement reminded readers that railroads made excursions to California possible and memorable. this city. He has rented his farm two miles west and two miles south of the city, and will have a public sale at the premises Thursday, March 5, of a lot of good personal property. Wm. H. Couch will cry the sale, which commences at 10 a.m. Lunch at noon. Robert Montgomery of Hickory Comers, who graduates from the Grand Rapids veterinary college March 23, performed a successful operation Feb. 9 for a string-halt on both hind legs of the old gray horse owned by J.W. Bentley. The Herald is not up in veterinary science, but we understand that the operation is quite a difficult one to perform successfully. Mrs. C.C. Deane of Grand Rapids was in the city Sunday to attend the funeral of Henry Boorom. The Kalamazoo Telegraph of last Friday said “T.F. Colgrove of Hastings is in the city.” P.T. also was there. Frank Peck of Woodland, who pleaded guilty to assault and battery and was fined $100 or 90 days in the Detroit house of corrections by Justice Riker, concluded to cash up and is now enjoying his liberty. The friends of Jas. H. Bates, formerly of Cloverdale, now of Battle Creek, will be glad to learn that, after living 30 long years of loneliness, he has taken Miss Cornelia B. Lackey as a helpmate. Their near relatives assembled at the home of the bride’s parents. Mr. and Mrs. Will Lackey, Wednesday, Feb. 18, and Rev. Geo Brown of Trilby, O., pronounced them husband and wife. The young couple go to housekeeping soon. Rev. Levi Master, presiding elder of the Big Rapids district of the Methodist church and formerly a pastor in this city, died at his home in Big Rapids between 1 and 2 o’clock last Thursday morning, after an illness of about three weeks. He was 63 years of age, and is survived by a widow, one son, Rep. Sheridan F. Master of Kalamazoo, and two daughters, Mrs. Elvin Swartout of Grand Rapids, and Miss Mary Master of Chicago. The funeral was in Big Rapids Saturday afternoon, and the remains were taken to Grand Rapids for burial. C.W. Mixer came as near passing in his checks Monday as he cared to. He has two oil stoves in his laboratory and started a fire in both. He noticed that they blazed rather high, so he kept turning them down, but before he got them regulated, he was called into the house. When he returned to his work, the room was so black with smoke he couldn’t see anything, but he managed to get both doors open, and after some of the smoke was out, he tried again to turn the blaze down in the stoves, thinking something was the matter with them. Finding that did little good, he took the stoves outdoors and smothered the fires. In the evening, he attempted, with several lamps burning, to put some of the oil into one of the stoves when he discovered that the oil was gasoline. He hastened to put out the lamps so as to prevent an . explosion and considers it fortunate that he escaped with his life. His oil can had been filled with gasoline. The rooms and furnishings were thoroughly blackened from the smoke. Additional Local J.G. McKersie of Caledonia, father of Dr. C.H. Burton was in Grand Rapids Mrs. E.W. Brock, a former resident of this city yesterday. but now of Caledonia, recently died at the age Mrs. W.H. Goodyear was in Grand Rapids of 61 years. Tuesday. Last Friday, Willie, 15-year-old son of Mr. Mrs. Hoey of Dexter is visiting her son, and Mrs. Willard Buxton of Maple Grove, Father Connors. was sent to the industrial school at Lansing The Herald can furnish engraved visiting until he is 17 years old. [Willie died July 7, cards in the latest styles. 1904, of measles and pneumonia while at the Lenten services will be Friday and Sunday school]. evenings at St. Rose’s church. . Last Thursday, Mrs. Walter Burd pleaded Mrs. J.C. Burch, who has been visiting in guilty of assault and battery upon Mrs. Allie Grand Rapids for several months, returned Sample, before Justice Feighner in Nashville. home yesterday. She paid $3 and costs. There were two hoboes in town last Judge Clement Smith went to Lansing evening. Today there are two new boarders at Monday morning to meet with a committee Hotel Cortright for 10 days. [A.G. Cortright on legislation, appointed by the annual was sheriff in the early 1900s.] meeting of circuit judges recently held. Miss Mary Egan of Mt. Clemens, who has Claude Carpenter is home form been the guest at Father Connors’ for a few Gothenburg, Neb., and will act as relief days, returned home yesterday. operator on the Michigan Central Railroad for Last Saturday noon the Hastings Ice a short time. He expects to return to the west Company finished up its season’s supply. Mr. next spring. Hicks estimates that they cut 700,000 tons. Last Thursday, Mrs. Morris Burton, with A special meeting of the W.R.C. [likely her son Mead in her arms, fell down stairs and Woman’s Relief Corps] will be Saturday sustained quite severe bruises, but fortunately afternoon at 2:30 o’clock, at the GAR hall. All no bones were broken. Mead escaped members are requested to be present. uninjured. The St. Patrick’s Day banquet has been The Old Folks’ dancing and card party, declared off, but Thursday evening, April 16, which was to have been given Feb. 18 but was an Easter banquet will be given by St. Rose’s postponed on account of smallpox, will be Catholic church. Fr. Connors is preparing an given Thursday evening, March 5, at the excellent program. opera house. Mr. and Mrs. James Craven went to Battle Farmers, just drop in to the Herald office Creek Tuesday to visit their son and daughter. and leave your order for envelopes with your Mr. Craven will also attend the high court of address printed thereon. It doesn’t cost much the Independent Order of Foresters of Western and ensures safe delivery of letters or their Michigan as a delegate from the local court. return to the sender. James Engelhardt, during the past week, Morris Lambie has accepted a position received a letter from our former townsman with the Hastings City Bank. Mrs. C.W. Clark and business man S.E. Phillips of Chelan, severs her connection with that institution this Wash. The Herald was permitted to read the week, after which her position will be filled letter, and we believe extracts from it will be by Fred Stebbins. of interest to Spary’s many friends in Barry. Mr. and Mrs. Whit Benham went yesterday He says Chelan is growing, and things will to Battle Creek to attend the banquet of the boom this summer. They have had a nice high court of Foresters of Western Michigan. winter except a heavy fall of snow which is Whit was to incidentally look after some something uncommon. railroad work for the Grand Trunk. With two feet of snow on the ground, the The auxiliary connected with Emmanuel coldest weather was 4 degrees above zero. parish will be at the home of Mrs. Carrie They have had 12 weeks of sleighing, with no Colgrove Tuesday, March 3, at 2 o’clock p.m. wind to drift the snow. Their coldest week is A prompt attendance is desired; church about the first of February, the balance of the services are held at 4:30 o’clock. winter the thermometer being from 16 to 30 Hiram Card, formerly of the township of degrees above zero. Barry, died Sunday morning at 1:30 o’clock Mr. Phillips has sold his feed business and of consumption at the county poorhouse. He is going to oversee a lumberyard the coming was 78 years of age. A wife, who is also an summer. Chelan is putting in water works and inmate of the poorhouse, and four children, electric lights and expects to have them two sons and two daughters, survive him. The running by May 1. burial took place Monday in the potter’s field. Spary sends word to Fred Barry and John Solon R. Doud has bought the Homer Velte for some of their fine maple sugar. The Buell place on Green Street and will move to friends of Mrs. [Isabel Fullington] Phillips will regret that she does not get over the rheumatism, but will be pleased to learn that she is better than last summer. Brooke’s Band Not Coming J.L. Reed, proprietor of the opera house, is in receipt of a letter from the business manager of [Thomas Preston] Brooke and his famous Chicago Marine Band and Orchestra, cancelling the date. This is certainly a musical treat that was looked forward to with much pleasure, and we regret the cancellation of the date as much as does Mr. Reed. The following is the letter: Chicago, Feb. 11, 1903 Mr. J.L. Reed, Manager, Reed’s Opera House Hastings, Mich. Dear Sir: The extremely hard work of the past 38 weeks, during which time Mr. Brooke has been on the go either with his band or orchestra, has just about made a nervous wreck of him, and his doctors advise rest and quiet at once. We will therefore have to ask you to kindly cancel our date at your house. Our season will close at Cleveland, O., Sunday, Feb. 22. Trusting that we may be able to play a future date with you, I remain, Yours very truly, Bert A. Hall. RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF BOARD OF REVIEW The Board of Review will meet on Tuesday, March 3,2020, at 1:00 pm in the office of the Assessor at Rutland Charter Township Hall, 2461 Heath Rd, Hastings, Michigan 49058 to organize and review the Assessment Roll. NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING to hear Assessment APPEALS will be held at the RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP HALL, 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, Michigan on: MONDAY, MARCH 9,2020 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm & 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11,2020 9:00 am to NOON & 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm Also, any other days deemed necessary to equalize the Assessment Roll. PROPERTY ASSESSMENT RATIOS & FACTORS FOR 2020 CLASS RATIO MULTIPLIER Agriculture 46.98 1.0642 Commercial 47.32 1.0566 Industrial 54.67 .9145 Residential 47.63 1.0497 Developmental 50.00 1.0000 50.00 1.0000 Personal The above ratios and multipliers do not mean that every parcel will receive the same. If you have purchased property, it will be assessed at 50% of market value. If you have improved your property such as additions, new buildings, driveways, etc., this will also reflect in the value of your property. Upon request of any person who is assessed on said roll, or his agent, and upon sufficient cause being shown, the Board of Review will correct the assessment of such property and will, in their judgment, make the valuation thereof relatively just and equal. Dennis McKelvey, Assessor RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP 2461 Heath Rd Hastings, MI 49058 269-948-2194 Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Rut­ land Charter Township Clerk by writing or calling the Township. This notice is posted in compliance with PA 267 of 1976 as amended (Open Meetings Act) MCLA41.72a (2)(3) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). 137344 BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ORDINANCE ADOPTION TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP, BARRYCOUNTY, MICHIGAN AND ANYOTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following is a summary of two Ordinances which were adopted by the Township Board of Baltimore Township at a regular meeting held on February 10, 2020. ORD # 2020-MA-3 ORDINANCE TO AMEND MEDICAL MARIHUANA FACILITES ORDINANCE (2017-2) SECTION I. AMENDMENT OF SECTION III OF MEDICAL MARIHUANA FACILTIIES ORDINANCE. Subsection 1(c) is amended to authorize one provisioning center within Dowling having hours of operation from 9 am to 9 pm, 7 days a week. All other parts of Section III remain unchanged. SECTION II. SEVERABILITY. The provisions of this Ordinance are severable. SECTION III. REPEAL. This section provides that all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with this Ordinance are repealed, specifically Ordinance 2018-2 regarding provisioning center hours of operation. SECTION IV. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance is effective upon publication after adoption. ORD. # 2020-RA-2- ORDINANCE TO AMEND RECREATIONAL / ADULT USE MARIHUANA ESTABLISHMENT ORDINANCE (2019-1R) SECTION I. AMENDMENT OF SECTION VII OF MEDICAL MARIHUANA FACILITIES ORDINANCE. Subsections 9 and 10 are amended to authorize a marihuana retailer establishment and microbusiness retailer component to have hours of operation from 9 am to 9 pm, 7 days a week. All other parts of Section VII remain unchanged. SECTION II. SEVERABILITY. The provisions of this Ordinance are severable. \SECTION III. REPEAL. This section provides that all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with this Ordinance are repealed. SECTION IV EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance is effective upon publft^fton after adoption. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the full text of the Ordinances has been posted in the office of the Baltimore Township Clerk at the address set forth below and that copies of this Ordinance may be purchased or inspected at the office of the Baltimore Township Clerk during regular business hours of regular working days following the date of this publication. Penelope Ypma, Clerk BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP 3100 E. Dowling Road Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 721-3502 �Page 10 — Thursday, February 27, 2020 — The Hastings Banner MUSEUM, continued from page 1 Tools stolen from house under construction A 42-year-old man reported the theft of tools from a residence in the 9000 block of South Marsh Road in Orangeville Township Feb. 17. Burglars forced open the front door of the residence, which is under construction, and took “a large quantity” of home improvement tools and material. The man said the break-in could have occurred anytime in the previous five weeks. A full list of stolen items is being compiled. The case remains - under investigation. View Looking NorthEast Rowboat stolen from lakeside A 64-year-old man called police Jan. 9 to report his rowboat had been stolen from his residence in the 8000 block of Chain O Lakes Drive. The man said the boat had been sit­ ; ting on the shore of Wilkinson Lake upside down, and could not have floated away. He ; said it was stolen sometime in the previous month. The case is currently inactive. . Aerial View Looking Northwest Still a mystery how garbage landed in road At 9:56 a.m. Feb. 9, a 69-year-old man called police to report garbage dumped in the road in the 1000 block of Starr School Road in Hastings. The man said sometime since 8 a.m. that morning someone dropped a bag of garbage in the road, creating a hazard. A piece of mail in the garbage was for a 25-year-old Hastings woman. When an officer contacted her, the woman said she did not know how the garbage got there, and that she does not travel down that road. The case is inactive without further information. View Looking Northwest Man arrested for marijuana use while driving An officer stopped a vehicle with a defective headlight at 12:20 a.m. Feb. 23 on Broadway Road near Vedder Road in Carlton Township. After stopping the vehicle, the officer noted, “When I stood near the driver’s door I was overwhelmed with smoke and the smell of burnt marijuana coming through the open window.” The driver, a 20-year-old Grand Rapids man, also had marijuana on his pants and burnt wrapping paper in the vehi­ cle. Despite this, the man denied smoking while driving. He did say he had had two blunts since 8 p.m. at a friend’s house, and had 2.8 ounces in his vehicle. He failed multiple field sobriety tests, was arrested and had a blood sample drawn. Woman arrested on fourth OWI offense An officer initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle which failed to dim its headlights on Grand Rapids Street near Crane Road in Thomapple Township at 7:18 p.m. Feb. 23. The officer smelled burnt marijuana and saw a haze inside the vehicle. The driver, a 25-year-old Middleville woman, admitted to smoking a marijuana joint about an hour before she was stopped, but said she did not smoke inside the vehicle. She had a suspended license, two prior operating while impaired convictions and a warrant from Lansing area police for a third violation. She was arrested. Witness leads officer to OWI arrest A witness called police at 6:15 p.m. Feb. 22 to report a vehicle weaving across M-37 nearly hitting other vehicles. The officer located the vehicle on M-37 near Airport Road in Rutland Charter Township and initiated a traffic stop after observing it weaving in the road. The driver, a 22-year-old Hastings woman, denied drinking any alcohol until the officer pointed out the smell was obvious. She then admitted to drinking two beers. She had a 0.23 blood alcohol content and was arrested. Three arrested in second Little’s Country Store robbery this year Taylor Owens Staff Writer Suspects in the burglary of Little’s Country Store on Thornapple Lake Road didn’t get far before they were arrested early Saturday morning. Justin Miller, 38, of Battle Creek and Ryan Harston, 24, of Vermontville have been arraigned on breaking and entering charges. A third suspect, 44-year-old Mandy Gallup of Nashville, is scheduled to be arraigned March 10, according to the Barry County District Court. Police responded to an alarm at the store at 12:35 a.m. Feb. 22 and found multiple unopened packs of cigarettes in the parking lot. Officers cleared the building and waited for the owners, who found that most of the money in a hiding place in the store had been stolen. Only store employees would have known where the money was hidden, they told police. While they trust their current store employ­ ees, they had fired Gallup a few months before, and said she may have kept her key. Officers reviewed surveillance footage from the break-in, which showed two burglars wearing masks. One opened the front door with a key and went straight to the hiding place where money was kept. The other stood lookout at the door. When they left, the sus­ pects attempted to pull the key from the front door, but it was stuck and they had to leave it. Police looked up the address of Gallup, and learned it was just a few houses from the store. A K-9 unit arrived and officers walked to the address, where they saw the three sus­ pects through a window. Gallup answered the door and allowed the officers to search the house. Police found black clothes strewn in the home, including a ski mask on the kitchen floor. Miller was wearing black pants, which he removed while talking to one of the officers. An officer watched Miller hide something in a recliner, and when the chair was searched, police found $600 stuffed behind a cushion. All three suspects initially denied any knowledge of a break-in, but eventually Harston told officers about a black bag with $190 under the couch where he had been sit­ ting, and $100 from the break-in hidden in Gallup’s bedroom. Gallup’s story changed multiple times. But she admitted to telling the two men about the store’s cash-hiding spot and that she had a key to the store. She said the two men went to her house after the break-in and gave her the $100 from the theft. The money was returned to the store. It is the second robbery at Little’s Country Store in less than two months. Jacob Braddum, 19, of Hastings, was charged with armed robbery for a Jan. 6 inci­ dent. Braddum allegedly pointed a gun at an employee and demanded cash from the regis­ ter. The amount of money taken in that robbery was not disclosed. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. Business Services Help Wanted MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. SUNNY CREST YOUTH RANCH, home for neglected & abused boys, located in Sun­ field, is looking for Volunteers to assist with computer needs. Must be at least 18. If inter­ ested, call Wes Vandenburg, 616-558-7464. BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements. Dis­ count for Seniors & Veterans. 269-320-3890. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. Staff from Schley Nelson Architects provided the planning commission with images of the proposed expansion to the Classic Car Club of America Building, which will almost double the current building’s size. • showroom, a vintage speed shop and new restroom facilities. “The goal is a retro car dealership from the ‘60s and ‘70s,” Nelson said. The total project cost is set to be $5 million; $3 million of which will go toward construc­ tion of the building. Another $1.5 million will go to increasing exposure. The remaining $500,000 is set to go toward the professional exhibit design. The second item on the proposal is an expansion to the Classic Car Club of America building. The plan is to take the current octagon structure and extended it into a much larger and longer octagon. The current structure has about 14,504 square feet; the extension will add 10,266 square feet. Commission member Ben Geiger asked about fire service access to the muscle car museum since it is the farthest south of any building on the property at M-43 and Hickory Road. Nelson said the plans meet Michigan build­ ing and fire codes. Commission member John Laforge raised concerns about the proposed gravity sewage system and if it can.sustain itself as the muse­ um continues to add buildings and expand. “I don’t know what the future plans are,” Nelson said. He made it clear that he was with the archi­ tectural firm heading up the proposed project, not with the museum, so he would not have information on any potential expansion plans. “The expansion is really the reason that they’re bringing the sewer system in,” Nelson said. “It’s gravity sewer to the east and then it will be pumped to the public system, so it won’t be held onsite.” The car museum will hook up to the Architect Chris Nelson represents the Gilmore Car Museum at the county planning commission meeting during which the museum received approval for its expansion p***" plans. Southwest Barry County Sewer Authority. SWBCSA General Manager Scott Monroe said connecting the museum to the public system is the equivalent of hooking up 22 new homes. Monroe said the museum will only add an increase of 4,300 gallons of water a day at the highest use, and noted tht construction on the project is at least a year out. “These building will fit in very nicely to the concept of the museum,” Barry County Planning and Zoning Administrator Jim McManus said. “And if something else were to come forward as you [Laforge] were allud­ ing to, they would have to come back.” The planning commission unanimously approved the application. JPC recommends farm animal changes to zoning ordinance Luke Froncheck Staff Writer After no comments were made during a public hearing, the Hastings City and Rutland Charter Township Joint Planning Commission recommended an amendment to a zoning ordinance regarding livestock. The only audience members at the 11 min­ ute meeting held Feb. 19 were Hastings City Mayor Pro Tempore John Resseguie and Rutland Charter Township Supervisor Larry Watson. The amendment contained verbiage chang­ es to the JPC’s zoning ordinance on livestock. “This Zoning Ordinance does not provide for commercial production livestock land uses in any zoning district,” the amendment states, “but certain premises may potentially be determined by the State of Michigan to be permissible for the siting of a new or expand­ ing commercial livestock production facility pursuant to the Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices for Site Selection and Odor control for New and Expanding Livestock Facilities issued by the Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development und authority of the Michigan Right to Farm Act.” The amendment additionally clarifies that “the keeping or raising of livestock for any non-commercial purposes is not allowed in any zoning district.” “For purposes of the provisions of this Zoning Ordinance pertaining to the keeping or raising of livestock for ‘commercial’ pur­ poses, or referring to a livestock ‘production’ facility or similar term, these terms shall mean the act of producing an item intended to be sold at a profit.” The JPC unanimously recommended the amendments for approval to both the Rutland Charter Township Board and the Hastings City Council. The JPC also received an update from Hastings City Manager Jerry Czarnecki regarding the sidewalk improvement project along West State Street. He reported that engi­ neering firm Hubbell, Roth & Clark are work­ ing on a design for the proposed improve­ ments. Czarnecki also gave an update on the city’s master plan. Work on the plan is entering the final stages and should finish by the end of April, Czarnecki said. The next JPC meeting will be at 5:30 p.m. March 18 at the Rutland Charter Township hall. Hope Township Notice of Adoption of Amendment to the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE HOPE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that at its special meeting on Monday, February 24th, 2020 at 6:30PM at the Hope Township Hall, 5463 S M-43 Hwy, the Hope Township Board of Trustees adopted Ordinance #92, amendment to the Zoning Ordinance. The adopted amendment modified Section 4.2(F)(2) as it pertains to the reclamation and phasing of mining operations. The amendment requires the Planning Commission to determine the amount of a mining operation site that may be open at any time when reviewing as a special exception use. These amendments to the Township Zoning Ordinance were adopted after the Planning Commission held a public hearing and recommend­ ed approval of the amendment to the Township Board on February 20th, 2020. A copy of the Zoning Ordinance and the amendment is available for review at the Hope Township Office during regular business hours 9:00 a.m. through noon and 1:15 p.m. through 3:00 p.m. on Wednesdays. The amendment will become effective eight days after the date of this published notice pursuant to the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, as amended. HOPE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION 5463 S M-43 Hwy Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269) 948-2464 ' 7 13R011 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 27, 2020 — Page 11-^ UPGRADE, continued from page 1 will receive consistent onsite support. More than half of the requested $50,000 budget amendment, according to Czarnecki’s propos­ al, will be for one-time spends on hardware, peripherals, and infrastructure improvements. “We would also ask council to allow staff to update all contracts with Aunalytics so they are on the same time frame to allow for the finance department to match up contracts with the fiscal year and to have all contracts end at the same time,” his proposal read. At that point, Saurman and Czarnecki told council members - likely at the end of the current three-year agreements - city staff would issue a request for proposals for all three IT functions to shop other companies and competitive bids. Despite the IT distress, two council mem­ bers were not pleased with an arrangement that would appear to reward a software con­ sultant that, they said, should have helped avoid the current problems. “Here we have a company that we’ve been working with for 17 years and we’re in a hole because of them,” Council member Brenda McNabb-Stange said. “They were the ones who gave us the advice - and now you want to spend four to five times more, and for three years?” “It is the age of the equipment .’’Czarnecki said. “They (Aunalytics) have been recom­ mending an upgrade for some time.” “And how many times did you bring that to Council?” McNabb-Stange asked. “It’s been in the budget every year,” Sauerman replied. “Why was it not done?” McNabb-Stange asked. Sauerman said the item had always been a “hit-or-miss” proposition and overlooked over the years because of its seeming lack of urgency. The problem became acute when Aunalytics pointed out that upgrading exist­ ing computers from the expired Windows 7 software to Windows 10 software is not pos­ sible. At last month’s special meeting, which was held to address the issue, McNabb-Stang said the council should be held accountable for budgeting the expense and not seeing that it was purchased. “We have to take the blame for this, it wasn’t followed up on,” she said then. “We don’t have any system (to ensure upgrades are) in place. I harped on (retired city manag­ er) Jeff Mansfield all the time: ‘Let us know what the status is.’ And we never got it.” The $50,000 expenditure will be spread over multiple funds because the increase will affect all city departments. Saurman said. Don Bowers and McNabb-Stange cast the two dissenting votes on the computer upgrade. McNabb-Stange also was not happy with the $221,000 approved for Consumers Energy to remove and dispose of existing light poles and fixtures and their replacement with 40 poles and LED-powered lights along with replacement of six photocells along State Street between Broadway and Cook Road. The project, which will be offset by a $120,000 contribution from the Downtown Development Authority, lacked definition for how improved the replacement lighting would be, McNabb-Stange said. “I just wonder how much we need all of these lights - maybe we might need half (to reduce the city’s $100,000 portion of the cost).” Reminded that half the cost will be cov­ ered by the DDA, McNabb-Stange was non­ plussed. “We’ve got to come up with $100,000 out of this year’s budget,” McNabb-Stange point­ ed out. “That’s half the street repair budget.” “It’s coming out of fund balance,” Czarnecki said. “Yeah, everything comes out of fund bal­ ance,” responded McNabb-Stange, who stood alone on the 8-1 vote to approve the project. Council members also approved two rezoning requests, one submitted by Par-Tee Real Estate LLC, that would allow a 17-acre section of property adjacent to The Legacy at Hastings golf course on North Broadway to be rezoned from R-S (suburban residential) to RR (rural residential). Planning commission chairman David Hatfield, who was in attendance at the city council meeting, explained that the move would allow the four existing homes on the property to be in compliance with the sur­ rounding RR designation. The change also would reduce the density of future home con­ struction in the area to 1-acre per site from the present 2.9 acres. Hatfield also mentioned that the rezoning move was a requirement before the Par-Tee Real Estate group would purchase the property from current property owner FlexFab Horizons, Inc. “So, are they going into the building busi­ ness?” council member Al Jarvis asked. “I don’t know what they have in mind to do with it,” Hatfield said, “but that’s not ger­ mane to this request.” The council provided unanimous approval as it did to a rezoning plan that will vacate portions of Cass, Mill, Thom, and High streets to make room from the planned expan­ sion of the wastewater treatment plant. According to City Attorney Stephanie Fekkes, the formal rezoning action was needed since the city, through its wastewater treatment plant, is an adjoining property owner and must approve. A customary approval for soliciting of funds for the Thornapple Arts Council at sum­ mer events at Thomapple Plaza and the Spray Plaza was not forthcoming, however. “I don’t think we should have somebody with a tin cup asking for money at the spray plaza,” Bowers said, who noted that last year’s agreement did not include the spray plaza venue. “People are there having fun and asking them for money is just wrong.” Told that the effort raised $7,000 lasf'year, McNabb-Stange wondered if, instead of solic­ itors passing through the crowd, announce­ ment of the fundraising could be made from the stage or a collection box be placed on stage. “I attended almost every Friday night and, sometimes, the Thursday (music) events at the spray plaza and I never felt pressured to put money in a can,” said council member John Resseguie, who made the motion to approve the effort. “In fact, sometimes when people get missed, they wonder how missed the chance to give.” “This is why I think when somebody makes a request I would like the person mak­ ing the request to please be here,” Tossava said, noting the absence of Megan Lavell, executive director of the Thomapple Arts Council whose name appeared on the letter to council. Council member Bill Redman, observing that the first music event of the season doesn’t occur until the Hastings jazz festival April 23, suggested that council table the request until Lavell could attend the next council meeting to address the concerns. Resseguie withdrew his motion. In other business at Monday’s meeting. Consumers Energy commits to net-zero carbon emissions Consumers Energy Monday announced a goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040, the next step in an industry-leading clean energy plan aimed at protecting the planet for future generations. “Consumers Energy is proud to take a stand for Michigan and for the planet. We are com­ mitted to take actions that eliminate our car­ bon footprint and do our part to combat cli­ mate change,” Patti Poppe, Consumers Energy’s president and chief executive offi­ cer, said. “Our clean energy plan already is focused on protecting the planet, and our net-zero pledge takes that commitment to the next level.” Consumers Energy ushered in a new era with its 2019 Clean Energy Plan, a road map to meet Michigan’s energy needs through 2040. The energy provider committed to reduce 90 percent of the carbon emissions it generates by eliminating the use of coal and working with customers to use energy more efficiently. Consumers Energy expects to avoid the need to build three new power plants with customers’ help. The new net-zero goal means Consumers Energy will eliminate the impact of carbon emissions created by the electricity it gener- ates or purchases for customers. “We don’t have all the answers yet, but our clean energy plan is a great start,” Poppe said. “We have the know-how and the time to con­ tinue innovating and creating to solve this problem.” The company’s clean energy plan provides the foundation. Consumers Energy plans to eliminate coal, boost renewable fuel sources and help customers reduce energy use and waste. The company also may offset further emis­ sions through strategies, such as carbon sequestration, landfill methane capture or large-scale tree planting. And it will continue to explore new technology and policy solu­ tions to reach the net-zero goal. More about Consumers Energy’s Clean Energy Plan can be found at MICleanEnergy. com. “We often say that no one can do every­ thing, but everyone can do something,” Poppe said. “Consumers Energy is proud to do our part to protect the planet with our new goal, and we look forward to working with Michigan residents to help them understand and do their part so we can accomplish great things together.” council members: • Heard Jarvis announce that he would not’ be seeking re-election to his council seat and? expressed their unanimous regret and appreci­ ation for his years of service. • Approved a request from Steve Radant of WBCH to hold the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on South Jefferson Street at 4 p.m. March 17. The next meeting of the city council will be 7 p.m. Monday, March 9, at the city hall, 201» E. State St. The public is welcome to attend. ’ LEGAL NOTICES \ • Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on April 16, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Robert G. Paige and Minnie J. Paige, husband and wife, as tenants by the entireties Original Mortgagee: Griffin Financial Mortgage, LLC Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Reverse Mortgage Funding LLC Date of Mortgage: April 28, 2006 Date of Mortgage Recording: May 12, 2006 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $188,984.99 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Beginning at a point on the North and South 1 /4 line of Section 13, Town 1 North, Range 8 West, distant North 00 degrees 01 minutes 22 seconds East 500.00 feet from the center of said Section 13; thence continuing North 00 degrees 01 minutes 22 seconds East 343.00 feet; thence North 86 degrees 00 minutes 34 seconds East, 1753.29 feet; thence South 321.85 feet to the centerline of Holden Road; thence South 71 degrees 27 minutes 15 seconds West, along said centerline of Holden Road, 419.05 feet; thence North 70 degrees 39 minutes West, 35.04 feet; thence South 89 degrees 04 minutes West, 1319.06 feet to the place of beginning. Common street address (if any): 4751 Fruin Rd, Bellevue, Ml 49021-8208 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: February 27, 2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1411366 (02-27)(03-19) 138045 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on March 19,2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Randy Miller and Patti Miller, husband and wife Original Mortgagee: Household Finance Corporation III Foreclosing Assignee (if any): U.S. Bank Trust, N.A., as Trustee for LSF10 Master Participation Trust Date of Mortgage: August 12, 2005 Date of Mortgage Recording: August 19, 2005 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $119,893.46 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Lot 12, Block 16 of Lincoln Park Addition, according to the plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, page 55, Barry County Records Common street address (if any): 705 W Clinton St, Hastings, Ml 49058-2043 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: February 20, 2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1410646 (02-20)(03-12) 137666 i ' J ,■ STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate J FILE NO. 20-28441-DE Estate of Leebella Geiger. Date of birth:' 10/09/1928. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, * Leebella Geiger, died 11/18/2019. » Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred ; unless presented to Terri L. Geiger personal “ representative, or to both the probate court at 5341 < Usborne Rd., Freeport, Ml 49325 and the personal ’ representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 01/20/2020 John L. Teeples P39341 25 Ionia Ave. SW - Ste. 230 ■t Grand Rapids, Ml 49503 616-776-7200 Terri L. Geiger 5341 Usborne Rd. Freeport, Ml 49325 26*9-838-7089 138015 > SPECIAL ELECTION ? I J NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A SPECIAL ELECTION WILL BE HELD IN THE: COUNTY OF BARRY 1 STATE OF MICHIGAN TUESDAY, March 10, 2020 FOR PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY THE PLACES HOLDING THE ELECTION IN SAID MUNICIPALITIES ARE INDICATED BELOW: LEGAL NOTICES ■ ‘ ASSYRIA TOWNSHIP BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP BARRY TOWNSHIP CARLTON TOWNSHIP CASTLETON TOWNSHIP HASTINGS CHARTER TWP. HOPE TOWNSHIP IRVING TOWNSHIP JOHNSTOWN TOWNSHIP MAPLE GROVE TWP. ORANGEVILLE TWP. PRAIRIEVILLE TWP. RUTLAND TOWNSHIP THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP WOODLAND TOWNSHIP YANKEE SPRINGS TWP. YANKEE SPRINGS TWP. CITY OF HASTINGS Ward 1, 2, 3 Precinct 1 8094 Tasker Road, Bellevue, Ml 49021 Precinct 1 3100 East Dowling Road, Hastings, Ml 49058 Precinct 1 14505 S. Kellogg School Road, Hickory Corners, Ml 49060 Precinct 1 85 Welcome Road, Hastings, Ml 49058. Precinct 1 915 Reed Street, PO Box 679, Nashville, Ml 49073 Precinct 1 885 River Road, Hastings, Ml 49058 Precinct 1 5463 S. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, Ml 49058 Precinct 1 3425 Wing Road, Hastings, Ml 49058 Precinct 1 13641 S. M-37, Battle Creek, Ml 49017 Precinct 1 721 Durkee Street, Nashville, Ml 49073 Precinct 1 7350 Lindsey Rd., Plainwell, Ml 49080 Precinct 1 1015 S. Norris Road., Delton, Ml 49046 Precinct 2 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, Ml 49058 Precinct 1 128 High Street, Middleville, Ml 49333 Precinct 2 200 E. Main Street, Middleville, Ml 49333 Precinct 3 100 East Main Street, Middleville, Ml 49333 Precinct 1 156 S. Main PO Box 98, Woodland, Ml 48897 Precinct 1 284 N. Briggs Road, Middleville, Ml 49333 Precinct 2 1425 S. Payne Lake Road, Middleville, Ml 49333 &4 Hastings Baptist Church, 309 East Woodlawn, Hastings, Ml 49058 TO VOTE ON THE FOLLOWING PROPOSITIONS LISTED BELOW: REPUBLICAN PARTY PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY DEMOCRATIC PARTY PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY BARRY 911 CENTRAL DISPATCH PROPOSAL Sample ballots may be viewed at www.mi.gov/vote. THE POLLS OF SAID ELECTION WILL BE OPEN AT 7 O’CLOCK A.M. AND WILL REMAIN OPEN UN­ _________________________ Til 8 O’Ci OCK P M. ON THF DAV OF H POTION._________________________ THE POLLS OF SAID ELECTION WILL BE OPEN AT 7 O’CLOCK A.M. AND WILL REMAIN OPEN UNTIL 8 O’CLOCK P.M. ON THE DAY OF ELECTION. Absent voter ballots must be mailed to voters no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 6, 2020. Registered voters may contact their local Clerk to obtain an application for an absent voter ballot. For any other ques­ tions relating to the election process, please contact your local Clerk: ASSYRIA TOWNSHIP BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP BARRY TOWNSHP CARLTON TOWNSHIP CASTLETON TOWNSHIP | HASTINGS CHARTER TWP. HOPE TOWNSHIP IRVING TOWNSHIP JOHNSTOWN TOWNSHIP MAPLE GROVE TOWNSHIP ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP PRAIRIEVILLE TWP RUTLAND TOWNSHIP THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP WOODLAND TOWNSHIP YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP CITY OF HASTINGS Annette Terry Penelope Ypma Deb Knight Amanda Brown Marcia Scramlin Anita Mennell Deborah Jackson Sharon Olson Sheri Babcock Holly Carpenter Melody Risner Rod Goebel Robin Hawthorne Cindy Willshire Nancy Stanton Janice Lippert Jane Saurman 269-968-3329 269-721-3502 269-623-5171 269-945-5990 517-852-9429 269-948-9690 269-948-2464 231-373-4784 269-721-3710 517-490-9510 664-4522 623-2726 948-2194 795-7202 ext. 203 269-367-4915 269-795-9091 269-945-2468 PAMELA A. PALMER, COUNTY CLERK 8 d H p ■1 ) 1 u if .1 li <a >! ft V w q )1 r ■b �Page 12 — Thursday, February 27, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Report explores public sentiment in Michigan on climate change question Bridge Magazine Most Michigan residents say climate . change is happening and it will harm people -in the United States — just not them person­ ally, according to new polling data. " It’s a “stunning” gap, said Jennifer Marlon, lead researcher on the project, by the Yale .Program on Climate Change Communication. The Yale research group annually estimates public opinions about climate science for every county in the United States using a decade of data and statistical modeling. The group’s 2019 findings on public senti­ ment show broad concern among Michigan ^adults about climate change, if slightly less ■than the level of concern expressed by people nationally. " The majority of residents surveyed in every '.Michigan county (rural, urban, Democrat, and Republican alike) say they believe in and are •'worried about climate change. Climate change is becoming “much more real to people on all sides of the political spec­ trum,” Marlon said. The report estimated 65 percent of Michigan adults surveyed said they believe global warming is happening (compared to 67 per­ cent nationally), while 17 percent said they do .not believe it is happening. A slight majority, 53 percent, of Michiganders said they believe human activity is mostly responsible for glob­ al warming (32 percent said it is not mostly responsible). The report’s 2019 state-level data had a margin of error of +/- 7 percent. Asked whether global warming “will harm them personally,” 39 percent of Michiganders polled said they would be harmed a great or moderate amount; 51 percent said they would be harmed little or not at all by global warm­ ing. The last decade saw six of the 10 hottest years on record globally, with intense weather events like forest fires and hurricanes becom­ ing more common. So far this year, Michigan is 7 degrees warmer than average. Research predicts a number of other envi­ ronmental challenges for Michigan, from ris­ ing waters to algae blooms, pests that threaten farm crops and soil erosion. Where the Yale team still sees “a lot of division” is “what people understand as the causes of climate change and the science behind it,” Marlon said. Even though most residents are worried about climate change and believe it is going to harm people in the United States, majorities in every Michigan county ventured that it’s unlikely to harm them personally. They were much more likely to conclude that a changing climate will harm others in the United States, however. Analysis of the Yale data shows, on aver­ age, a 16-percent gap in each county between the number of people who say climate change will harm them personally and who say it will harm people living elsewhere in the United States. Washtenaw County showed the largest belief gap in the state at 20 percent. This sense of comfort is not unique to resi­ dents in Michigan, a place that is repeated­ ly pointed to as a future refuge from the worst consequences of climate change. The Yale estimates show people across much of the United States believe they are far less likely to be impacted by a changing cli­ mate than fellow Americans. People surveyed by researchers tend to consistently believe they are less likely than other people to experience negative life events. Known as the optimism bias, it is part of why people rate themselves less likely than others to experience a heart attack, get in a car accident or get divorced. On the flip side, people overestimate how likely good things are to happen in their life, like winning the lottery or living longer than average. When it comes to predicting how likely they are to be impacted by negative environ- The last decade saw six of the 10 hottest years on record globally, with intense weather events like forest fires, intensifying rains and hurricanes becoming more com­ mon. Lake Superior, for example, is continually flooding stretches of Lakeshore Boulevard, a popular drive that hugs the shoreline in Marquette. (Photo provided by Bridge Magazine.) mental events, like a hurricane or pollution, people are known to rate other places as more susceptible to environmental calamity than their home — no matter where in the world they live. This sunny default stance can dissuade some people from acting in response to cli­ mate science studies. However, local govern­ ments are taking an increasingly larger role in Michigan in enacting climate plans. However, Marlon said, “The policy impli­ cations of [this gap] are challenging because people feel like they are immune” to the neg­ ative consequences. Lake area residents raise questions about sewer authority output Luke Froncheck Staff Writer A petition has been circulating to limit the output of the Southwest Barry County Sewer Authority and stem the flow of water into Crooked Lake. Although the petition has collected roughly ’35 signatures, SWBCSA General Manager 'Scott Monroe addressed the residents’ con­ cerns at SWBCSA’s monthly meeting on /Tuesday evening. The petition, which was started by southern “Barry County residents Ken Tomlin, Larry ^Osborne and John Karraker, asked that the Michigan Department of Environment, Great 'Lakes, and Energy hold a public review .before issuing a new permit to SWBCSA. £ “We’re passing around a petition to slow •the water outlet of the sewer authority to some Sdegree until a solution is found for Crooked ■Lake,” Tomlin said at Tuesday night’s Southwest Barry County Sewer Authority ^Meeting. ■ The petitioners are seeking the permitted ■maximum daily gallons to be lowered from 1 bullion to 500,000 to prevent additional resi­ dential household units from being added to •the system. The goal of the prevention would .be to stop the Sewer Authority from contrib­ uting a greater amount of water to the Watson JJrain District until an outlet for Crooked jLake can be established. ? “If the water system blows up in a home, -the first thing you do is shut the water off,” resident Gary Munson said during the meet­ ing. “I think that is one thing that we should be considering here: Slow it down until we •figure out what’s going on.” ■- Under the permit from EGLE, SWBCSA ,can discharge up to 1 million gallons per day, -an amount that Monroe said is less than half oof the typical amount discharged. When the discharge takes place, the water goes into one of the authority’s infiltration beds and then is released back into the ecosystem. “We’re not putting a million gallons out there,” he said. “Right now, our treatment facility takes in 426,000 gallons a day, max. And we only get half of that anyways.” Monroe repeatedly said that the plant can­ not discharge any more water than it takes in, which is roughly 250,000 gallons a day, describing the process as “a gallon in is a gallon out.” He said they could double the size of the treatment facility and still not have to increase the limit given to them by EGLE. “That will never happen in my lifetime, and I certainly plan on living a long time,” Monroe said. “We just aren’t going to get that kind of flow.” Monroe said the authority only discharges water roughly half the days out of the month, at a rate of about 350,000-400,000 gallons each time. “You’re asking for 500,000 gallons. We don’t go past that number anyway because we don’t ever get that much flow,” Monroe said. In 2019, SWBCSA released 70 million gal­ lons of water, meaning if they ran a pump directly from the treatment facility and into Crooked Lake, it would have added an addi­ tional 2 inches of water, Monroe said. In comparison, Crooked Lake received roughly 110 inches of precipitation in 2019.. During the meeting, Monroe also addressed those residents who wanted to see an end to the authority’s intake of septage. In 2019, SWBCSA received 2.6 million gallons in septage, none of which was released into the filter beds, he said.. The SWBCSA has a biosolids program where it breaks down the sludge accumulated daily from intake through both sewer and septage. After it’s broken down, the materials are injected into local farmland as fertilizer. Monroe said they inject 3.135 million gal­ lons, which is a half-million gallons more than the authority takes in. “It’s like a triple win: The farmers get fer­ tilizer; we’re helping out the community; and water isn’t going to our filter beds because were injecting that.” The septage program also provides com­ munity members who aren’t hooked up to the sewer a much more economical way to dis­ charge, Monroe said. The septage program also is a source of revenue for the authority. In 2019, the pro­ gram brought in roughly $200,000, he said. The SWBCSA’s proposed operating budget for 2020 is just under $1.2 million, meaning, if the septage program were stopped, the authority would lose roughly 16 percent of its budget. When it comes to whether the SWBCSA can halt additional hookups to the sewer, Monroe said that wasn’t his decision to make. The health department is in charge of deter­ mining when individual sewer hookups are required. At that point, SWBCSA is legally obligated to hook the citizens up. Monroe also addressed a proposed sewer system hookup for the Gilmore Car Museum. The addition of the museum would be the equivalent of adding 22 more residential properties to the system - or an additional 4,300 gallons per day at their peak flow. “That’s a drop in the bucket for a sewer system,” he said. Monroe added that construction on the project is still at least a year out, so any impact isn’t likely to happen soon. The construction is all being paid for by the museum. Scott Monroe, general manager of the Southwest Barry County Sewer Authority, addresses questions raised by southern Barry County residents during the SWBCSA’s regular meeting Tuesday evening. DISPUTES, continued from page 1 meeting, the following motion was made: - “Moved by (David) Tossava, supported by --(Sharon) Zebrowski, to request theBoard of Commissioners find a way to fund the new 'COA building without putting a millage vote [on the ballot.” The letter to the county board concluded: -“We appreciate your efforts on behalf of the -older adults of Barry County and pledge our ’commitment to work with you on this difficult 'but important project.” Commissioner Dan Parker expressed con­ cern about public awareness of the COA and • all the services it provides. “We need to make ’’sure people in the community know there are ',a lot of services ... We don’t want people thinking that they’re not providing enough. ■It’s important for the press and for us to be talking. We don’t want to supplant the COA with something else.” A proposal for an ad hoc committee to . study COA services offered elsewhere was strictly intended to check out what other pos­ sibilities exist to help the COA, not replace it, he said. Zebrowki got up during public comment and chastised the board for its lack of knowl­ edge about what the COA does for seniors. ““How many sites do we have? What’s offered there? Can you name 10 of them?” Commissioner Jon Smelker’s proposal - to i charge a committee of commissioners to study COA services, compared to other coun­ ties, and report back to the commissioners - is something the COA board should handle, she said. “You claim your priority is the jail, but that isn’t what you’re talking about. You need to be focused on the jail and let the Commission on Aging board do its job.” Smelker’s proposal, made at last week’s Committee of the Whole meeting when both Geiger and Conner were absent, became a source of contention Tuesday when Geiger proposed an amendment. Geiger urged the board to be specific in its charge to the ad hoc committee: “To create an ad hoc committee on senior services to study and report on options for new and better space for senior services that the COA can afford to staff and maintain; and do not require higher taxes; as well as senior services offered to other counties; and marketing and branding trends in senior centers.” Conner said she didn’t like the wording with the specificity about staffing and financ­ ing. Other commissioners expressed concern about handcuffing an ad hoc committee. Geiger finally withdrew his motion. The original motion to create an ad hoc committee to study the Commission on Aging services, compared to other counties, and report back to the commissioners was approved with Geiger casting the lone no vote. Smelker said the committee would be comprised of a few commissioners who could call for input from outside sources as needed. After the meeting, Geiger offered the fol­ lowing comment: “I’m concerned the future of Barry County’s senior services will be shaped by a committee operating with no written rules or objectives - just the ‘honor system.’ This sloppiness will not produce results. Commissioners require presenters to provide significant supporting evidence for the even smallest of items. We should hold ourselves to the same standard, reverse today’s action and rebuild this team the right way.” Problems with the condition of the jail did come up during the meeting Tuesday when Wing informed the board of a letter from the Michigan Department of Corrections. The DOC recently inspected the jail and found it to be in noncompliance with state mandates for jail operation, particularly with regard to the handling of female inmates. The county has 30 days to respond with its plan for steps that will be taken to address the problems that were identified. In other business, commissioners: met Jennifer Heinzman, the new president of Barry County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance. Heard an update on the county’s Blue. Zones healthy living project from Allison Colleen Acker from the Commission on Aging provided a presentation on the Art in Action program. Troyer-Wiswell Listened to a presentation on COA Art in Action from Colleen Acker, who manages the program. In other action, the board: • approved the Michigan Department of Agriculture Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program application for Regan and Alice Chase in Section 33 of Woodland Township. • approved the FY 2020 grant contract amendments to both Adult Drug Court and Sobriety Court to allow for the acceptance of an additional $8,000 in grant funding for each program. • approved reclassification of one of the Family Division Court Service Specialist I positions to a Chief Court Specialist I posi­ tion, effective March 2. • approved the Barry County Remonumentation Plan as required by state law and approved appointing Robert Carr, Michael Pratt, Cam Lear, Steven Koerber, Randall Jonker and Cindy Koster to the Barry County Remonumentation Peer Review Allison Troyer-Wiswell offers an update to the board about Barry County’s Blue Zones healthy living project, the only one of its kind in the state of Michigan. Board and authorizing the chairperson to sign peer review agreements for state reimburse­ ments. • approved Remonumentation Surveyor Agreements between the County of Barry and Brian Reynolds (doing business as Reynolds Land Surveying & Mapping P.C.), Arrow Land Survey, Pathfinder Engineering Inc, Crane Land Survey, Carr & Associates LLC, Exxel Engineering, and Jonker Land Surveys PC for the 2020 contract year. • approved an employment agreement between the Barry County Board of Commissioners and Barry County Administrator Michael Brown for three years, starting Jan. 1 and ending on Dec. 31,2022. • approved amended Barry County Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) public summary of procedures and guidelines with a request detailed cost itemization form, and approval Jennifer Heinzman, new executive director of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance, addresses the county commis­ sioners Tuesday. of the attached Barry County statutory fee costs form. • approved a schematic design for the Barry County Courts & Law building renovations as prepared by Landmark Design Group and authorized Timothy A Spitzley Architects LLC to proceed with the construction draw­ ing, bidding and contract administration phases of the project as outlined in the attached proposal dated Feb. 5. • approved $86,189 in claims. • adopted resolutions to initiate lake level projects for Cloverdale, Wilkinson, Jones and Mud, and Long lakes. • approved a Michigan Employee Retirement Services’ 457 participation agree­ ment amendment to permit Roth deferral contributions. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, February 27, 2020 — Page 13 Lr/LiAL STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 20-28437-DE Estate of Robert Lee Adams. Date of birth: 07/16/1937. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Robert Lee Adams, died 01/06/2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Robert G. Adams personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 02/20/2020 Nathan E. Tagg P68994 202 South Broadway Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-2900 Robert G. Adams 7435 Head Road Delton, Ml 49046 (269)207-0939 137796 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement. Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on March 19, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE: Mortgagors): Jeannie M. Tenhaaf, a married woman Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (“MERS”), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns Date of mortgage: May 15, 2006 Recorded on June 16, 2006, in Document No. 1166049, Foreclosing Assignee (if any): NewRez, LLC f/k/a New Penn Financial LLC, d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing Amount claimed to be due at the date hereof: Two Hundred Fifty-Nine Thousand Forty-Two and 63/100 Dollars ($259,042.63) Mortgaged premises: Situated in Barry County, and described as: PARCEL 1: Lot 31, Schaffer's Point, according to the plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 2 of Plats, Page 40, Barry County Records Parcel 2: A parcel of land adjacent to the plat of Schaffer's Point in Section 20, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, Yankee Springs Township, Barry County, Michigan, described as beginning at the Southeast corner of said plat; thence North 14 degrees 00 minutes East 198.00 feet; thence North 03 degrees 30 minutes ‘East 152feet: thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 ..seconds East 180.74 feet; thence South 00 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 341.63 feet; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds West 241.52 feet to the Point of-Beginning. Excepting therefrom: A parcel of land adjacent to 4he plat of Schaffer's Point of Section 20, Town 3 Nwthj-Range 10 West, described as commencing at the Southeast-corner of said plat; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 15.00 feet; thence North 14 degrees 00 minutes East 50.00 feet for true point of beginning; thence North 14 degrees 00 East 100.00 feet; thence north 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 188.50 feet; thence South 00 degrees 41 minutes 31 seconds East 96.90 feet; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds West 213.85 feet to the point of beginning. Also except: A parcel of land adjacent to the plat of Schaffer's Point in Section 20, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, described as commencing at the Southeast corner of said plat; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 15.00 feet; thence North 14 degrees 00 minutes East 270.00 feet; thence North 03 degrees 30 minutes East 30.00 feet for true point of beginning; thence North 03 degrees 30 minutes East 50.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 152.00 feet; thence South 00 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 50.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds West 155.67 feet to the point of beginning. Also except: A parcel of land adjacent to the plat of Schaffer's Point in Section 20, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, described as commencing at the Southeast corner of said plat; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 15.00 feet; thence North 14 degrees 00 minutes East 150.00 for the Point of Beginning; thence North 14 degrees 00 minutes East 51.38 feet; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 175.30 feet; thence South 00 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 50.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds West 188.50 feet to the point of beginning. Also except: A parcel of land adjacent to the plat of Schaffer's Point in Section 20, Town 3 North, Range 10 West, described as beginning at a point which lies North 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 15.00 feet from the Southeast corner of said plat; thence North 14 degrees 00 minutes East 50.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 213.85 feet; thence South 00 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 48.45 feet; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds West 226.52 feet to the point of beginning. Commonly known as 1230 Lynn Dr, Middleville, Ml 49333 The redemption period will be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless abandoned under MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of such sale, or 15 days from the MCL 600.3241 a(b) notice, whichever is later; or unless extinguished pursuant to MCL 600.3238. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of Act 236 of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale will be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, or the Mortgagee’s attorney. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. NewRez, LLC f/k/a New Penn Financial LLC, d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman P.C. 23938 Research Dr, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, Ml 48335 248.539.7400 1410769 (02-20)(03-12) 137685 NOTICES Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on March 12, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Luther F. Smith Jr., a married man and Melissa Smith, his wife Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for AmeriFirst Financial Corporation its successors and assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): AmeriFirst Financial Corporation Date of Mortgage: September 6, 2012 Date of Mortgage Recording: September 13, 2012 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $145,890.60 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Lot 71, Misty Ridge No. 3, Village of Middleville, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, Page 53, Barry County Records. Common street address (if any): 663 Green Meadows Dr, Middleville, Ml 49333-8180 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: February 13, 2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1409798 (02-13)(03-05) 137295 ' NOTICE Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. Notice of foreclosure by advertisement. Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM on MARCH 19, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Clayton R. Boze and Norma J. Boze, husband and wife, to PNC Bank, National Association, Mortgagee, dated November 4,2013 and recorded November 14, 2013 in Instrument Number 2013-013614 Barry County Records, Michigan. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Five Hundred Forty-Seven and 63/100 Dollars ($97,547.63), including interest at 4.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 PM on MARCH 19, 2020. Said premises are located in the Township of Barry, Barry County Michigan, and are described as: Beginning at the intersection of the west line of Section 6, Town 1 North, Range 9 West and the centerline of Delton Road in the NW 1/4 of said Section 6; Thence Easterly 400 feet along the centerline of Delton Road for the true place of beginning; thence South 645 feet parallel with the west line of said Section 6; thence East 330 feet at right angles; thence North 675 feet, more or less, parallel with said west line of Section 6, to the centerline of Delton Road; thence Westerly 335 feet, more or less, along said centerline to the place of beginning. 6981 Delton Road, Delton, Michigan 49046 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA §600.3241 a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. . If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 20, 2020 File No. 20-001691 Firm Name: Orlans PC Firm Address: 1650 West Big Beaver Road, Troy Ml 48084 Firm Phone Number: (248) 502.1400 (02-20)(03-12) 137667 STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL CIRCUIT - FAMILY DIVISION BARRY COUNTY PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING FOR NAME CHANGE CASE NO. AND JUDGE 20-28440-NC In the matter of Deabian Alan Joplin-Pinero. TO ALL PERSONS, including whose address is unknown and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: TAKE NOTICE: A hearing will be held on March 18, 2020 @ 2:15 p.m. at 206 W. Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 before Judge William M. Doherty to change the name of Deabian Alan Joplin-Pinero to Deabian Alan Arens. 137716 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on March 05, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE: Mortgagors): Tammy J. Bordeau, a single woman Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (“MERS”), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns Date of mortgage: July 6, 2017 Recorded on July 10, 2017, in Document No. 2017-006882, Foreclosing Assignee (if any): AmeriHome Mortgage Company, LLC Amount claimed to be due at the date hereof: One Hundred Thirty-Three Thousand Four Hundred Six and 52/100 Dollars ($133,406.52) Mortgaged premises: Situated in Barry County, and described as: Lot 110, Middleville Downs No. 5, Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan, according to the recorded plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 5 of Plats, Barry County Records. Commonly known as 210 Meadowlark Ct, Middleville, Ml 49333 The redemption period will be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless abandoned under MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of such sale, or 15 days from the MCL 600.3241 a(b) notice, whichever is later; or unless extinguished pursuant to MCL 600.3238. If the above referenced property is sold at a forecjpsure sale under Chapter 32 of Act 236 of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held respgnsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. AmeriHome Mortgage Company, LLC Mortgagee/ Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman P.C. 23938 Research Dr, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, Ml 48335 248.539.7400 1409109 (02-06)(02-27) 136862 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement. Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicatureactof 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on March 05, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE: Mortgagor®: Perry Ramsey and Diane Ramsey, husband and wife Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (“MERS”), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns Date of mortgage: June 22, 2007 Recorded on July 2, 2007, in Document No. 1182474, Foreclosing Assignee (if any): New Residential Mortgage, LLC Amount claimed to be due at the date hereof: Seventy-Nine Thousand Two Hundred Ninety-One and 32/100 Dollars ($79,291.32) Mortgaged premises: Situated in Barry County, and described as: A parcel of land in the West 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 26, Town 3 North, Range 8 West, described as: Commencing at a point in the center of the Highway 220 feet North of the intersection of M-79 with the Highway leading North in the Village of Quimby; thence East 175 feet; thence North 80 feet; thence West 175 feet; thence South 80 feet to the place of beginning. Commonly known as 2941 Dusty Lane, Hastings, Ml 49058 The redemption period will be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless abandoned under MCL 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of such sale, or 15 days from the MCL 600.3241 a(b) notice, whichever is later; or unless extinguished pursuant to MCL 600.3238. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of Act 236 of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. New Residential Mortgage LLC Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman P.C. 23938 Research Dr, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, Ml 48335 248.539.7400 1409105 (02-06)(02-27) 136856 STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL CIRCUIT - FAMILY DIVISION BARRY COUNTY PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING FOR NAME CHANGE CASE NO. AND JUDGE 19-28451-NC Court address 206 W. Court Street Suite 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 Court Telephone No. 269-945-1390 In the matter of Wesley Dale McClelland. TO ALL PERSONS, including whose address is unknown and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: TAKE NOTICE: A hearing will be held on March 25, 2020 @ 1:45 p.m. at 206 W. Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 before Judge William M. Doherty to change the name of Wesley Dale McClelland to Wesley Dale Robertson. 137917 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicatureactof 1961,1961 PA236, MCL600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on March 12, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name® of the mortgagor®: Joseph A. Guerin, a married man joined by Andrea J. Guerin, his wife Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/ or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Home Point Financial Corporation Date of Mortgage: October 27, 2017 Date of Mortgage Recording: November 3, 2017 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $188,786.07 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: A parcel of land in the Southwest 1/4 of Section 36, Town 1 North, Range 8 Wes, described as being a parcel 205 feet East and West by 213 feet North and South in the Southwest corner of said Southwest 1/4. Common street address (if any): 15995 Waubascon Rd, Battle Creek, Ml 49014-4100 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. , This notice is from a debt collector. . Paje of notice: February 13, 2020 Trott Law, P.C. w '''‘ 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1409318 (02-13)(03-05) 137022 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any, shall be limited solely to return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE BY ADVERTISEMENT: Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 P.M., on April 2, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE SALE: Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by John E. Mays, the mortgagor®, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for American Financial Resources, Inc., its successors and assigns, the original mortgagee, dated June 15, 2015, and recorded on June 24, 2015, as Instrument Number 2015-006224, in Barry County Records, Michigan and last assigned to American Financial Resources, Inc., a New Jersey Corporation, the foreclosing assignee, as documented by a Corporate Assignment of Mortgage dated January 27, 2020, and recorded on January 29, 2020, as Instrument Number 2020-001079, in Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due and owing as of the date of this Notice, the sum of One Hundred Seventeen Thousand Two Hundred Fifteen and 34/100 U.S. Dollars ($117,215.34). Said mortgaged premises is situated at 282 West Carlton Center Road, Hastings Michigan 49058 in the Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and is described as: LAND SITUATED IN THE TOWNSHIP OF CARLTON, COUNTY OF BARRY, STATE OF MICHIGAN: COMMENCING AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF THE WEST 1/2 OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 18, TOWN 4 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST THENCE NORTH 12 RODS 6 FEET THENCE WEST 15 RODS 11 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 12 RODS 6 FEET; THENCE EAST 15 RODS 11 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING The redemption period shall be 6 months (180 Days) from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Pursuant to Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, if the property is sold at foreclosure sale the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder under MCLA 600.3278 for damaging the property during the redemption period. ATTENTION HOMEOWNER: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. Dated: February 3, 2020 For More Information, please call: Matthew R. Reinhardt, Esq. Quintairos, Prieto, Wood & Boyer, P.A. Attorneys for Servicer 255 South Orange Avenue, Suite 900 Orlando, Florida 32801 (855) 287-0240 Matter No. 142885 (02-13)(03-05) 136938 STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL CIRCUIT - FAMILY DIVISION BARRY COUNTY PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING FOR NAME CHANGE CASE NO. AND JUDGE 20-28450-NC in the matter of Marcus Abel Joplin-Pinero. TO ALL PERSONS, including whose address is unknown and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: TAKE NOTICE: A hearing will be held on March 18, 2020 @ 2:15 p.m. at 206 W. Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 before Judge William M. Doherty to change the name of Marcus Abel JoplinPinero to Marcus Abelyas Arens. 137717 Notice Of Foreclosure by Advertisement THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Danielle Marie Milligan, an unmarried woman, to Habitat for Humanity Michigan Fund, Inc., dated March 26,2018, recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, on April 23,2018, as Document No. 2018-004116, as assigned to Habitat for Humanity / Barry County, Inc., Mortgagee, of 1215 N. Broadway, Hastings, Michigan 49058, by an Assignment of Mortgage dated March 26, 2018, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry County, Michigan on April 23, 2018, as document No. 2018­ 004117, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of February 5, 2018, the sum of $121,549.00., plus unearned gifted equity of $20,533.34. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is given under Section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the Mortgage will be ■ foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check, at the East Steps of the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 (that being the place of holding Circuit Court in said County) starting promptly at 1:00 p.m, on Thursday, March 19, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. Said premises are situated in the Township of Rutland, County of Barty, State of Michigan, described as follows: DESCRIPTION OF LOT 16, SMITH’S LAKEVIEW CENTER: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF LOT 17, SMITH’S LAKEVIEW ESTATES NO. 1; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 42 MINUTES 30 SECONDS WEST, 270.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00 DEGREES 17 MINUTES 30 SECONDS EAST, 49.54 FEET; THENCE NORTH 41 DEGREES 42 MINUTES 56 SECONDS WEST, 100.04 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE NORTH 41 DEGREES 42 MINUTES 56 SECONDS EAST, 170.06 FEET; THENCE NORTH 49 DEGREE^ 51 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 84.27 FEET; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY, 123.86 FEET ALONG A 383.00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE LEFT, THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS SOUTH 6*1 DEGREES 09 MINUTES 56 SECONDS EAST, 123.32 FEET; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY, 60.55 FEET ALONG A 317.00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE RIGHT, THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARp SOUTH 64 DEGREES 57 MINUTES 30 SECONDS EAST, 60.46 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 49 DEGREES 51 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST, 149.22 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. THIS IS INTENDED TO DESCRIBE LOT 16 OF SMITH’S LAKEVIEW CENTER, RUTLAND TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN. TOGETHER WITH AN EASEMENT FOR INGRESS, EGRESS AND UTILITIES AS DESCRIBED BELOW DESCRIPTION OF EASEMENT FOR INGRESS, EGRESS AND UTILITIES: BEGINNING AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF LOT 16, SMITH’S LAKEVIEW ESTATES NO. 1; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 42 MINUTES 30 SECONDS WEST, 66.00 FEET TO THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF LOT 17 OF SAID PLAT; THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREE 17 MINUTES 30 SECONDS EAST, 132.00 FEET TO THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID LOT 17; THENCE NORTH 41 DEGREES 43 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST, 220.19 FEET; THENCE NORTHWESTERLY, 158.86 FEET ALONG A 317.00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE LEFT, THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS NORTH 56 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 25-SECONDS WEST, 157.21 FEET; THENCE NORTHWESTERLY, 123.86 FEET ALONG A 383.00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE RIGHT, THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS NORTH 61 DEGREES 09 MINUTES 56 SECONDS WEST, 123.32 FEET; THENCE NORTH 42 DEGREES 20 MINUTES 34 SECONDS EAST, 66.22 FEET; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY, 97.62 FEET ALONG A 317.00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE LEFT, THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS SOUTH 61 DEGREES 36 MINUTES 30 SECONDS EAST, 97.23 FEET; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY, 191.94 FEET ALONG A 383.00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE RIGHT, THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS SOUTH 56 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 25 SECONDS EAST, 189.94 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 41 DEGREES 43 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST, 220.19 FEET; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY, 49.54 FEET ALONG A 66.00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE RIGHT, THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS SOUTH 20 DEGREES 12 MINUTES 45 SECONDS EAST, 48.39 FEET TO THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF LOT 16, SMITH’S LAKEVIEW ESTATES NO. 1; THENCE SOUTH 01 DEGREE 17 MINUTES 30 SECONDS WEST, 132.00 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING Commonly known as: 2811 Onyx Court, Hastings, Michigan 49058. PP#: 08-13-235-016-00 The redemption period shall be six (6) months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date of such sale. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Dated: February 13,2020 Rhoades McKee PC Attorneys for Mortgagee Joseph A. Lucas (P-59595) Business Address: 55 Campau Avenue, N.W., Suite 300 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (616)235-3500 137423 �Page 14 — Thursday, February 27, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Duane Weeks to retire as Middleville village manager Middleville Village Manager Duane Weeks, right, gives a report to the Village Council at Tuesday’s meeting as Deputy Clerk Glorimar Ayala listens. Weeks announced his retirement from his position last week but will stay on with the village until this summer. Greg Chandler Staff Writer Duane Weeks has announced that he will soon retire as village manager in Middleville. Weeks contacted members of the Village Council individually last week to announce that he would retire in late June or early July after 14 years with the village, the last five as manager. “It was getting to the point where it was a good time to step aside, to step back from the position,” Weeks said in a phone interview Monday. The council held a special meeting last Friday morning to discuss setting a timetable for finding Weeks’ successor. “They had a desire to get the process start­ ed as quickly as possible,” he said. Weeks is the second Middleville official to announce retirement plans this year. Elaine Denton, who has been village clerk since 2011, announced last month that she would retire in March. “We all hate to see him leave,” Village President Charlie Pullen said. “He’s done a great job. We’re going to miss (him).” Trustee Mike Lytle expressed surprise by the announcement. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads “I told him he’s too young to retire. He says he’s got grandkids (he wants to spend time with). He’s done a real good job,” Lytle said. Weeks, 62, started working for the village in 2006 as an equipment operator. He worked his way up through the ranks, first becoming assistant director of public works and then public works director. In September 2014, Weeks became interim village manager after his predecessor, Rebecca Fleury, stepped down to become city manager in Battle Creek. The village underwent a search process that netted 23 applications, and initially offered the job to John Konior, who at the time was assistant city manager in Urbandale, Iowa. However, the village was unable to come to terms with Konior on a contract, and resumed its search. In March 2015, Weeks was approved to be the new village manager on a 4-2 vote. Weeks says he can take pride in a number of accomplishments that have occurred under his watch, particularly on several public improvement projects. “It started with the (Sesquicentennial) Pavilion across the road. It was in the process when I came on, but we were able to enhance it with the (Paul Henry Thomapple) Trail improvements,” he said. Other projects under Weeks’ watch includ­ ed last year’s construction of the amphitheater just north of the pavilion, as well as economic improvements to the downtown area such as the Lofts of Middleville project that is ongo­ ing across the street from the Village Hall. Weeks currently earns more than $72,000 a year in his job. A rose by any other name ... Barlow Florist in Hastings brought a bit of the community to residents at Thornapple Manor on Friday when Carlos Zink presented 161 red roses to the residents there. Here is Zink with Leona Thompson. (Photo by Lyn Briel) Moving board meetings offers students, staff opportunity to showcase school After the Hastings school board meeting Monday night, Superintendent Dan Remenap, from left, talks to school board member Robert Pohl, while Louis Wierenga Jr., far right, and Mike Nickels, seated in front, listen (Photos by Rebecca Pierce) Your Success Is Our Business Get professional results and unbeatable value from the local specialists in business services! Business Cards • Signs, Banners & Posters • Printing 8c Copying • Laminating • Marketing Materials • Brochures & Handbooks • And Much More! Let us customize your promotional materials here! Contact Tv Greenfield, Steve Skedgell or Jennie Yonker 269-945-9554 Savanah Kaechele Contributing Writer The Hastings Area School System Board of Education has been moving around - holding meetings at different schools each month and the students are getting a chance to prac­ tice public speaking. It’s a win-win, school officials say, and staff members are happy about show-and-tell opportunities at their respective buildings. On Monday, Star Elementary School was the site for the meeting. And fourth-graders Kaylee Roe and Cooper Hokanson, alongside third-grader Joey Renner, offered a presentation on their school’s “Young Teachers in Training” pro­ gram. “They (the young teachers) have one or two study buddies and they will help them with math or reading, or both,” Joey said. “It makes a big difference.” Kaylee said. “I know in my study buddy, I’ve seen a big dif­ ference.” Teacher Donovan Scott stood with the stu­ dents and helped explain the program. “There’s really two different roles,” he said. “You’re either a ‘young teacher,’ which is a student that’s excelling in math and read­ ing, and there is what’s called a ‘study buddy,’ a student that teachers select that need a little extra support academically. “Over all, it’s really brought our school closer together with the relationships that these guys form.” This is the second year of the program at Star and there are over 100 students involved. Two fourth-grade student council mem­ bers, Liam Eastman and Ian Grundy, also attended the meeting. They offered an update on their pizza box recycling challenge and an introduction of the “buddy bench”. “We are raising pizza boxes to do (the height of) the Statue of Liberty,” Liam said. “We reached that goal and now we are going for 4,000 (boxes to equal the height) for the Eiffel Tower.” “If we beat that Eiffel Tower goal, we are going to go the Empire State Building, which is 8,000 boxes,” Ian said. This project was started at the school last year, with the help of Hastings Charter Township Supervisor Jim Brown. “That took less than six months of us being in school for us to reach our first goal,” Amy Smelker, principal of Star Elementary School, said. Other elementary schools are now partici­ pating in this project. “It’s amazing how much pizza goes through the town of Hastings.” Smelker added. Ian introduced the “Buddy Bench.” “We have two of them,” he said. “If you don’t have anybody to play with, you can go over to that Buddy Bench and you can sit on it and someone will come over to you while you are sitting on the Buddy Bench and ask if you want to play.” The PTO has purchased one bench, while the student council purchased the other. The money for the benches was raised through the student council’s pencil sales that take place twice a month for the students. School board chairman Luke Haywood and Superintendent Dan Remenap praised the students’ presentations. “We appreciate the input from the kids, it’s always very welcomed,” Haywood said. “You kids that spoke, good job,” the super­ intendent added. “That’s a tough thing to do and I’m proud of you for taking that chal­ lenge.” In other highlights of events at Star Elementary: • The book swap is coming up in March, supplying students with used books to read. • The name for the shed built by the high schoolers was voted on by the student coun­ cil. “Fred the Shed” was the winner. • The tech lab is up and running. “The kids love it; the teachers are loving it.” Smelker said. “Every inch is being used.” • March is reading month at the school. The theme is “Be a reading Ninja,” corresponding to Ninjago Legos. • The Farm Lab is coming in the spring. “We have had different donors, either agricul­ tural businesses or local farmers that donated money, so that we could have a huge mobile farm lab come and they’re presenting lessons to each of our grade levels.” Smelker said. In other business, the board: • Approved a request for a travel study trip by the Hastings High School Business Professionals of America (BPA) to Washington D.C. to participate in the National Leadership Conference. The trip is scheduled for May 6-10,2020. • Accepted two donations: $1,000 from Dr. David Manksy in support of the food service program to help pay off food service balances i of the students; and $1,940 from the Hastings Athletic Boosters in support of the spring sports program. • Approved the alignment of graduation requirements for the Hastings Virtual Academy (HVA) with the Michigan Merit Curriculum. Students attending the HVA, an online alternative to traditional learning envi­ ronments, will earn a Hastings Area School System diploma upon completion of the Michigan Merit Curriculum - a graduation requirement of 18 credits. • Approved changing the amount of physi­ cal education credits required to graduate. The district previously required a full credit of physical education to graduate. It will now follow the Michigan Merit Curriculum, which requires a half credit of physical education and a half credit of health to graduate. This change will go into effect for incoming fresh­ man. • Approved a new course known as “Academic Hour.” This elective course is targeted toward students who may need extra support or for students in advanced placement classes who need extra time on their school­ work. The course will begin in the 2020-2021 school year. “It’s what we would have known as study hall, but there is a curriculum to it.” Remenap said. • Approved the letter of agreement for the 2020-2021 school calendar. Once the calen­ dar is ratified, it will be published to parents. “This is a real positive thing for our staff and our community to know the calendar this far ahead of time.” Remenap said. • Heard a complaint from board member Robert Pohl, who asked why the board had not been told a symposium was taking place in March. Remenap apologized. “That issue’s on me certainly. I was approached by Marty Buehler (Hastings High School science teacher) and some AP environmental science students who wanted to put together this symposium and I gave them the OK to go ahead and go with it and I should have communicated it to all of you, so I apologize for that... I’m proud of our kids for taking the initiative and organizing an event that has taken quite a bit of their time.” • The next regular school board of education meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Monday, March 16 > at the Hastings Performing Arts Center. �Thursday, February 27, 2020 — The Hastings Banner SPORTS SECTION — Page 1- The Hastings ANNER SPORTS SECTION Kiwanis Club honors citizens of the month Maddie Chipman and Madison Killian (front, from left) are citizens of the month at Central Elementary. Joining them for the photo are (back) teachers Chris Andrews and Jill Smith, along with Kiwanis President Matt Goebel. Hastings Middle School citizens of the month include (from left) Brandon Simmons, Caleb LaBoe, Melany Vargas, Abigail Peake and Rylee Meece, accompanied by (back) Principal Beth Stevens and Kiwanis president Matt Goebel. (Ethan Holman was nqt available for the photo) " • Brody Mix is the citizen of the month at Southeastern Elementary. He is pictured here with Kiwanis President Matt Goebel and teacher Stacey Cook. Hastings Kiwanis Club President Matt Goebel is pictured with (from left) Northeastern Elementary teacher Alyssa Fein, citizens of the month Donny Smith and Gabryella Juskewicz, and teacher Rachelle Wezensky (Photos provided) The Kiwanis Club of Hastings has announced its December citizens of the month. Students in fifth through eighth grades are chosen by teachers for the honor. December honorees, by school, include: Central Elementary - Maddie Chipman, daughter of Stott and Martha Chipman, and Madison Killian, daughter of Jennifer and Travis Killian. . Northeastern Elementary - Donny Smith, son of Nicole and Donny Smith Sr., and Gabryella Juskewicz, daughter of Samantha and Thomas Miesen. Southeastern Elementary - Brody Mix, son of John and April Mix. Star School - Hannah Sorensen, daughter of Shannon Carlson and Eric Sorensen, and Madison Stora, daughter of Eric Stora and Janice Ross. Hastings Middle School - Ethan Holman, son of Tiffany Zimmer and Daniel Holman; >. Caleb Laboe, son of Lydia and Nicholas Teopas; Rylee Meece, daughter of Rachel and . ’ Josh Meece; Abigail Peake, daughter of Elizabeth and Matthew Peake; Brandob; Simmons, son of Bri and Brian Simmons; antf Melany Vargas, daughter of Francisco Vargas and Epifania Felix. . ’ VanStee’s 38 carries TK girls past Wyoming Hannah Sorensen and Madison Stora (front, from left) are citizens of the month at Star Elementary. They are joined by (back) teachers Julie Carlson and Amelia Noble and Kiwanis President Matt Goebel Earlier this season, Thomapple Kellogg’s Paige VanStee scored 37 points in leading the Trojans to a six-point home victory over Wyoming. Tuesday, VanStee went one better. The junior forward poured in a career-high 38 points and grabbed 17 rebounds as TK completed a sweep of the season series with the Wolves in a 69-47 win on Wyoming’s home court. The Trojans improved to 5-6 in the O-K Gold Conference and 11-8 overall heading into their final regular-season game Friday at East Grand Rapids. The first half was fairly close, with TK leading 18-17 after the first quarter and 33-28 at the half. The Trojans broke the game open in the third quarter with a 23-10 burst to open up an 18-point lead and were never seriously threatened the rest of the way. C Nine of TK’s 11 players scored in the contest. Senior Corrin Replogle had a strong all-around game with eight points, five rebounds, six assists and three steals. Haven Beyer and Tyah Jefferson scored five points apiece, while Gracie DeWent grabbed five rebounds and Beyer blocked two shots. �"Page 2 — Thursday, February 27, 2020 — The Hastings Banner SPORTS SECTION Wayland quicker than Barracudas by just a tad Brett Bremer Sports Editor p The Wildcats were the perfect carrot to jiangle in front of the Barracudas in the final ‘OK Rainbow Conference Tier II dual of the •season Thursday. » The Wayland boys just edged the Barry County varsity boys’ swimming and diving Team 97-86, dropping the Barracudas to 2-3 in ^conference competitions this season. The Tier 'II Conference Meet will be held this weekend, •Feb. 28-29, back at the Community Education •and Recreation Center in Hastings. ’ Having Wildcats to chase had the Barry ^County boys turning in some of their best times of the season. Barry County freshman Jack Kensington was on the heels of Wayland senior Garret Kloska in the sprints, the 50-yard freestyle and the 100-yard freestyle. Kensington’s junior teammate Sam Randall also turned in his best 100 free time of the season chasing Kloska at the opening of the 400-yard freestyle relay. Barry County senior Thomas Barnard nearly chased down Wildcat junior Sean Jenison in the 100-yard breast­ stroke. “The way we stack up with Wayland this year, their times are really close to ours, a second faster or half a second faster,” Barry • .County head coach DJ Cochran said. “That is always good mentally to have that kid who is only slightly faster than you, you feel like you can catch them more than when the kid is three or four seconds faster than you. It was Just good to have (Kensington and Barnard) plotted next to someone they could race and |hey both swam incredible - they’re both two pf our biggest fighters Thomas and Jack. They •rise to the occasion. If they have to lead the ^vent, it is not always going to be the best |ime, but if they have someone to chase, •Someone to fight against, that is when Jack land Thomas really seem to shine.” % Kensington set his PR in the 50-yard free­ style at 24.62 seconds, finishing behind jKloska’s winning time of 23.05. Kloska took |he 100-yard freestyle in 51.94, with Kensington second in a new PR of 53.73. •Those were the fastest times of the season in in 58.05, while adding a runner-up time of 1:59.75 in the 200-yard freestyle as well. Swimming that first leg of the 400-yard freestyle relay was rare to this point in the season for Randall. He has swam the back­ stroke most of the season, and tried to steal a little extra time between races by coming in later in the relay. The decision was made to move Randall from the backstroke into the 200-yard freestyle, the second event of a meet, meaning he doesn’t have that quick turnaround at the end of a meet. Barry County junior divers Gram Price, Blake Sheldon and Dane Barnes went 1-2-3 in their event, with Wayland not entering any divers into the competition. They pushed each other, and Price and Sheldon put up their highest point totals of the year. Price drew “oohs and ahhs” like those that accompany the grand finale of a fireworks show as he closed the diving competition with a forward, L two and one half somersault in the tuck posi­ tion dive that earned him 44.40 points. It upped Price’s total points for the day up to 211.65. Sheldon put up a score of 190.05 to earn the runner-up spot. The Wayland boys took the evening’s other two relay races. Sean Jenison, Andrew Vanbaal, Zachery Jenison and Dalton Montague won the 200-yard medley relay in 1:53.80, and Zachery followed that up with a winning time of 1:58.80 in the 200-yard free­ style - his best time of the year in that race. Zachery Jenison, Sean Jenison, Cooper Sidebotham and Kloska won the 200-yard freestyle relay for the Wildcats in 1:36.33. Wayland followed up that relay win with Montague taking the 100-yard backstroke in 1:05.78, part of a 1-2-3 finish in that race for the Wayland boys that played a big part in sealing the evening’s victory. Barracuda senior Thomas Barnard swims to a new personal record time in the 100yard breaststroke during his team’s OK Rainbow Conference Tier II dual with Wayland Thursday at the CERC in Hastings. (Photo by Brett Bremer) those two races for Kloska as well, as the evenly matched competition spurred on both teams. “It was exciting to see him finally break that 54 barrier and get that 53,” Cochran said. “He has been wanting it. He finally had the guy next to him to do it. I thought personally it looked a little slow. I thought His last turn was sloppy and then he finishes and I thought 53 with a bad turn, I’ll take that any day of the week.” Barnard dropped his PR to 1 minute 11.97 seconds in the 100-yard breaststroke, finish­ ing just behind Jenison’s time of 1:11.80. “He looked really strong there in the water,” Cochran said of Bernard who is rounding back into form after dealing with an illness. “He was just excited to finally have some­ one good to race again. He was like, ‘coach I want to beat him.’ He came so close. He needs to just make that final push, his last effort a little bit sooner and I think he would have had him. That was quite a race to watch and good to see a time drop because he has been work­ ing so hard for that race.” Randall didn’t quite catch Kloska like he had wanted to in the first 100 of the 400-yard freestyle relay, but set his new PR at the dis­ tance with a time of 52.77. That lead leg was good enough to help the Barry County four­ some of Randall, Jon Arnold, Andrew Tuokkola and Kensington to win the race in a season-best time of 3:36.26. The Wildcat team was about seven seconds back in the end. Randall and Tuokkola were a part of all the Barracudas’ victories in the pool Thursday. Tuokkola won the 200-yard individual med­ ley in 2:21.20 and the 500-yard freestyle in 5:32.09. Randall won the 100-yard butterfly Jack Kensington swims the anchor leg of the 400-yard freestyle relay for the Barry County team in its loss to Wayland Thursday at the CERC in Hastings. (Photo by Brett Bremer) »■ t -fc Alma wins final seven bouts to best Lakewood Brett Bremer Sports Editor i The Alma Panthers won all seven weight t-lasses from 125 pounds to 160 pounds to felose out the regional final victory over the ‘Lakewood varsity wrestling team in the •Division 3 Regional Final at Lakewood High School Wednesday. ' Jarrett Ferman clinched the win for his team with a pin of the Vikings' Donavan Pratt in the 145-pound match. ' Lakewood had a 21-12 lead after the first six weight classes against Alma, the team ranked third in the state in Division 3 heading into the state tournament. Lakewood’s Jon Clack and Grant Clarkson each scored a pin. Clack stuck Coleton Garrett in the 215-pound match and Clarkson put Mason Everitt on his back in the heavyweight bout. Lakewood also got a pin from Zachary Gibson at 112 pounds, as he bested Joseph Oberle. The Vikings’ -Kanon Atwell scored a 10-7 decision against Alma’s Gianni Tripp in the 119-pound match as well. Alma opened the dual with Carlos Espinoza scoring an 11-4 win over Gavin Vaughn at 171 pounds, and his teammate Adam Garcia took a 7-2 win over the Vikings’ Allen Shellington at 189. Jordan Pannill got a big pin for his team to slow the Vikings’ roll after the heavyweight matches, sticking Ashton Clark in the 103pound match to tie things up at 12-12 for the time being. Alma’s run of wins to close the dual includ­ ed technical falls for Nolan Rodriguez at 125 pounds and Solomon Rosales at 135. Josiah Baltierra at 130 had a pin. The Panthers got a 10-2 major decision from Dametrius Castillo in his 140-pound match with Keegan VanAlstine, and his 152-pound teammate Jacob Munger scored a 9-6 decision over Vem Fields. Justin VanBlaricum closed out the night for 2020 NOTICE OF BOARD OF REVIEW PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Review will meet at the Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Rd. Delton, Michigan 49046, to examine and review the 2020 assessment roll. The board will convene on the following dates for the hearing of appeals of assessments or taxable values, poverty exemptions, parcel classification appeals and/or current year qualified agricultural denials: Tuesday, March 3, 2020,10:00 am Organizational Meeting Wednesday, March 11, 2020,1:00 to 4:00 pm and 6:00 to 9:00 pm Lakewood senior Jonathan Clack nears a pin in his 189-pound match against Williamston’s Kyle Flory during the Division 3 Regional Semifinal at Lakewood High School Wednesday. (Photo by Dan Goggins) Thursday, March 12, 2020, 9:00 am to noon and 1:00 to 4:00 pm And on such additional days as required to hear all persons who have given notice of the desire to be heard until assessment rolls have been revised, corrected and approved. APPOINTMENTS ARE SUGGESTED; letter appeals will be accepted and must be received no later than 5:00 pm March 6, 2020 the Alma team with a forfeit win at 160 pounds. The fifth ranked Lakewood team bested Williamston 57-21 in its regional semifinal match. Clark, Gibson, Keegan VanAlstine, Kyle Petrie, Shellington and Clarkson had forfeit wins for the Lakewood team in the dual with Williamston. Clack and Pratt scored pins. Atwell scored a 16-5 major decision over the Hornets’ 125-pounder Chris Gray. Vaughn earned a technical fall at 160 pounds, outscor- Tentative ratios and estimated multipliers for 2020 are as follows: Agricultural 46.18% 1.0827 Commercial 47.99% 1.0419 Industrial 49.56% 1.0089 Residential 47.35% 1.0560 Personal Property 50.00% 1.0000 Tentative equalization factor of 1.0000 for all classes is expected after completion of Board of Review. Jim Stoneburner, Supervisor Prairieville Township Kevin Harris, Assessor Prairieville Township Prairieville Township Board Meetings are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, sex or disability. American with Disabilities (ADA) Notice The township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon seven (7) days' notice to Prairieville Township. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact Prairieville Township by writing or calling. Rod Goebel Prairieville Township Clerk 10115 S. Norris Rd., Delton, Ml 49046 269-623-2726 137042 Lakewood’s Gavin Vaughn fights to try and hold down Alma’s Carlos Espinoza in the 171-pound match to open the Division 3 Team Regional Final at Lakewood High School Wednesday. (Photo by Dan Goggins) ing Williamston’s Korey Miller 17-2. The Alma wrestlers will head to Kalamazoo for the Division 3 Team State Finals next weekend, Feb. 28-29. Third-quarter run helps Vikings beat Panthers The Lakewood varsity boys’ basketball team picked up its eighth win of the season Tuesday, knocking off visiting Delton Kellogg, 62-40. The Vikings outscored the Panthers 27-19 in the first half, and then broke the game open in the third quarter with a 21-5 run. Eleven different players scored for Lakewood. Bryant Makley led the Vikings with a team-high 14 points, while Brady Gawne added 13 and Jacob Elenbaas 12. Rich Hill led Delton Kellogg with 10 points, while Jacob Kemp and Blake Thomas added eight points apiece. Lakewood is now 8-9 overall this season. The Vikings return to Greater Lansing Activities Conference action at Leslie Friday. Delton Kellogg falls to 8-9 as well with the defeat. The Panthers will be back in Southwestern Athletic Conference Valley Division action Friday at Galesburg-Augusta. �Thursday, February 27, 2020 — The Hastings Banner SPORTS SECTION — Page 3 Vikings beat out Portland for fourth district title Brett Bremer Sports Editor They did what they had to do in the end. Clinging to a two-point lead the Lakewood varsity competitive cheer team threw out its best round three performance of the season to win the Division 3 District Championship at Frankenmuth High School Saturday. The Lakewood ladies outscored runner-up Portland by 5.5 points in the final round to finish off the championship outing. Being that it was the Raiders right on their tails made the win even as little sweeter for the Vikmgs. “They were pretty excited,” Lakewood head coach Kim Martin said of her girls. “Not going to lie, any day you beat Portland is a good day. That has been our goal - to beat them because last year at districts they beat us, we came back and got them at regionals.” The Vikings and Raiders didn’t meet up at all during the regular season this year. The district championship is the first since 2018 for the Lakewood ladies, and the fourth in program history. The Vikings had the highest score of the day in each of the three rounds, and will be in Novi for their Division 3 Regional Tournament Saturday (Feb. 29). Lakewood scored 760.24 points on the day, and will be joined at the regional tournament by the other top four teams from their district: Portland (752.72), Birch Run (733.64) and Chesaning (719.24). The battle for the championship was the best battle of the day. The tournament’s top four teams were clearly the top four Saturday as fifth-place Frankenmuth finished well back with 677.30 points. Lakewood put up a score of 229.80 in round one and 214.04 in round two, and then closed out the day with a score of 316.40 in round three. “We had a fairly tough judging panel too,” Martin said. “There was one judge that was about a half a point to a point lower in each category than the other judges. Had she been more in line with the other two judges we probably would have seen a 318 to 319 on that (third) round.” “Everything hit. They were exciting. They cheered it like it was meant to be cheered. They were spot on,” she added about the round three performance. There is still some work to do on the back tucks in round two for the Vikings. Coach Martin was really pleased with clean rounds one and three. Linden-Lake Fenton was the sixth-place team with 672.34 points, ahead of Ovid Elsie 667.88, Eaton Rapids 646.90, Lansing Catholic Central 631.04, Flint Powers Catholic 629.64, Corunna 575.70, Perry 571.82 and Saginaw 473.44. Portland wasn’t far behind the Vikings in either of the first two rounds, scoring a 228.00 The Lakewood varsity competitive cheer team performs during its championship performance Saturday at the Division 3 District Tournament at Frankenmuth High School. in round one and 213.82 in round two. The Raiders added a score of 310.90 in round three. As soon as the Vikings were on the bus to start the trip home from Frankenmuth they started checking for scores from other Division 3 district tournaments to start rolling in. Richmond, Croswell Lexington, Pontiac Notre Dame Prep and Harper Wood Chandler Park all qualified for the regional tournament at Novi out of the Richmond district last Saturday. The top four teams from the Onsted district head to Novi as well: Flat Rock, Michigan Center, Onsted and Monroe Jefferson. Delton girls edge out Lakewood at senior night Saxon bowlers wrap up 1-8 season, prep for regionals The Hastings High varsity bowling teams finished off their first full season in the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference at the confer­ ence singles tournament Saturday at M-66 Bowl in Battle Creek. Saxon junior Ashland Hoyt, a state qualifi­ er a year ago, captured all-conference honors with her ninth-place total pinfall Saturday. Hoyt’s day was highlighted by scores of 174, 162 and 160 from among her six games. Hoyt had a few teammates just miss confer­ ence accolades, with Andrea Rhodes placing 16th and Daisy Kerby 18th. Rhodes had a high game of 171 and Kerby tallied scores of 183 and 163. The Saxons’ Abby Zull bowled a 189 game and finished in. 23rd place. Connie Ricketts bowled consistently a 121 average for 28th place. Izzy Bergeron placed 29th with a 144 game. The Hastings varsity boys bowled well too, with Austin Fenstemaker leading the way in 18th place. He had high games of 202, 194, 170 and 168. Gage Richmond bowled 163 and 198 games during the day to place 25th. Kyler Madden had a 214 and 162, placing 26th. Paxton Walden bowled a 173 game, finishing in 29th place. John Hinkle had a 186 game for 35th place. Cameron Eaton had a 174 game finishing in 37th place. The Saxons head to Continental Lanes in Kalamazoo for their Division 2 regional com­ petitions this weekend. It has been a busy conclusion to the regular season for the Saxons who took on Parma Western Monday at Jax 60 and then hosted Ionia for Senior Night at Hastings Bowl Tuesday. The Saxon program celebrated seniors Abby Zull, Bailey Musculus, Connie Ricketts, Emma Vann, John Hinkle, Paxton Walden and Tyler Sue Tuesday. Muscuslus was just a couple pins shy of earning team points in her regular games, tried hard for her points missing by a couple pins, and Zull missed one by a single pin. Vann scored a half a point with her 144 game. Ricketts got her point for the Hastings girls with a 154 game. Hoyt bowled a 172 for a point. Andrea Rhodes and Kerby split a game, winning a point with their 140 game. The Saxon boys scored a 27-3 win over the Bulldogs. Fenstemaker bowled a 171 game for a point. Walden got two points with his games of 163 and 162. Madden bowled a 138 for his point. Hinkle got a point with his 197 game. Richmond won one with his 206 game. Steven VanOoy bowled a 244 for his point for the Saxons. The Hastings boys swept the Baker games with scores of 227 and 167. In a makeup dual Monday, the Hastings girls scored a 24.5-5.5 win over Parma Western in Jackson while the Panther boys bested the Saxons 28-2. Ricketts got two points for the Hastings girls with her 130 and 139 games. Rhodes bowled a 217 and a 219 for two points. Zull bowled a 159 to earn the Saxons’ half point. Kerby and Hoyt won two points each for the Saxons. Kerby had games of 186 and 157 while Hoyt scored a 160 and a 213. In the boys’ dual, VanOoy bowled a 163 and 152 for two Saxon points. Richmond bowled a 210, but came up short to his oppo­ nents’ 233 and 255. In 1-8 duals with Coldwater last Thursday, both Saxon teams were bested 18-12. Following their 44-39 home win over Lakewood, the Delton Kellogg athletics depart­ ment honored the seniors on the varsity girls’ basketball team. Pictured (front from left) are Lauren Lebeck, Abbie Bever, Holly McManus, (back) Clara Bever, Katie Lebeck, Eva Fernandez and Erin Kapteyn. (Photo by Mike Wertman) Hastings junior Ashland Hoyt celebrates with her all-conference medal after a ninth-place finish at the Interstate-8 Conference Finals at M-66 Bowl Saturday. (Photo provided) J-Ad News Services Seven Delton seniors stepped onto their home court for the last time Tuesday night, and they didn’t leave disappointed. Led by Senior Erin Kapteyn with 20 points, the Lady Panthers outscored the Vikings 44-39 to take home what Coach Mike Mohn called “a very tough win.” Also contributing to Delton’s victory was senior Holly McManus with 8 points and sophomore Mary Whitmore with 6. “I am really proud of this senior group and what they have brought to our school’s hallways, classrooms and competitive arenas during their careers,” Mohn said. “Erin Kapteyn, Abbie Bever, Lauren Lebeck, Holly McManus, Eva Fernandez Villalobos, Katie Tobias and Clara Bever are an awesome group of young ladies and have left their mark at DKHS. It will be tough day when it comes to no longer being able to coach them on the basketball court after our season is done, Pretty special group.” The win puts the Panthers at 10-9 overall with the last game of the regular season at Galesburg-Augsta Friday. The girls will head into district action at Kalamazoo Christian Wednesday, March 4, at 7 p.m. vs the winner of the Hackett Catholic Prep/Potterville game. Hastings Diving Club posts strong performance at Club Wolverine meet USA Diving age-group divers and Barry County Barracudas diver athletes include (from left) Gram Price, Blake Sheldon and Dane Barnes, pictured with Coach Todd Bates. The Hastings Community Diving Club faced its toughest meet of the season yet last weekend with more than 160 divers registered at University of Michigan’s Canham Natatorium for the Club Wolverine Sweetheart Invitational. “We took a lot of divers who were all competing in new levels with new dives on their lists, and I couldn’t be more proud of our Hastings Community Diving Club Junior Olympic divers warming up before the meet are (from left) Maelea Martin, Claire Green, Mayari Coriano Lahiff, Bethany Butchbaker, Abigail Dumond, Lexi Koorndyk and Aubrey Yarger. ] team and how they showed up and showed out after two long days of competition,” club coach Todd Bates said. Headlining the weekend’s performances was a 1-2 finish on the 1-meter board in the Junior Olympic 11-and-under age group on Sunday, as Aubrey Yarger won another gold medal, while Bethany Butchbaker finished second. Butchbaker also placed 15th on the 3-meter board. In the 12/13 age group, Abigail Dumond stepped up her degree of difficulty with a new twisting dive, winning a silver medal and falling just six points shy of an AAU national qualifying score on the 1-meter board. She also placed fourth on the 3-meter board. In Saturday’s Future Champion competition, Jillian Brandli won a silver Diving Club Future Champion divers are (from left) Jordan Price, Jillian Brandli, Annabelle Kuck and Coach Todd Bates. , medal in level 4. Jordan Price jumped up three levels from her previous meet to level 6 and earned a bronze medal on the 1-meter board, while Annabelle Kuck took fifth place at level 4 with a new dive. Sunday, Mayari Coriano-Lahiff placed seventh and Maelea Martin 16th place on the 1-meter board as they both competed in their first 14/15 age group event. In the 16/18 girls age group, Claire Green placed 14th and Lexi Koomdyk 19th on the 1-meter board, while on the boys’ side, Gran) Price placed ninth, Blake Sheldon 10th and Dane Barnes 13th as they prepared for this weekend’s O-K Rainbow Tier II meet at the Hastings Community Education and Recreation Center. The conference meet start? at noon Friday with diving, followed later by swimming preliminaries. Finals begin at 1 p.m. Saturday. �Page 4 — Thursday, February 27, 2020 — The Hastings Banner SPORTS SECTION DK boys get out and run in senior night victory Brett Bremer Sports Editor Lawton made things interesting here and there after the Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball team started its senior night, Southwestern Athletic Conference Valley Division bailgame on an 11-2 run. , Nothing was more interesting to Delton Kellogg head coach Jason Howland than to 4ee his guys really get out and run on Friday bight. .f “I was very happy with the way we pushed the ball up the court. That is something we have been lacking the last couple games, and that is me,” DK head coach Jason Howland said with a smile. “I am all for that. Do that where I can just sit there and you guys can have some fun. Make some good decisions with the basketball.” . The Panthers stayed under control on the break, knocked down a few shots from the Outside, got outstanding senior performances And scored a 66-55 win over the Blue Devils - their second win of the season over the Lawton boys. ’ “It was just fun to come out here and play with the guys,” Delton Kellogg senior guard Jordan Rench said. “We have been together $ince eighth grade. It is something you get to open up your eyes and enjoy. Coach has been with us since we were younger. It is a great feeling to get a win.” * Rench had nine points in the win. ' Senior center Dawson Grizzle did a little bit of everything for the DK boys, leading the team in scoring with 18 points, including a couple dunks, crashing the boards, swatting shots away and even running a couple offen­ sive sets from the top of the key. “Dawson’has just been playing awesome basketball the last month. He has to be aver­ aging a double-double. The kid is all heart, for sure. He is definitely the centerpiece of the offense and the defense,” Howland said. “His love of the game, it shows.” It was a big night for all five DK senior guys. Tommy Sheldon 11, Richard Hill 12 and Jayden Ashley ten. They all showed how they’ve grown on Tuesday night. Ashley is trying to transform his game a bit to fill in in the paint with center Cole Pape out with an injury. Rench showed off some improved impulse control. He picked up an early second foul trying to swat a ball away in the back-court after a missed shot and had to go to the bench. He soon returned to the floor and played good defense with his hands up and his feet moving for most of the rest of the night, not picking up a third foul until late in the bailgame. The Panthers took a 16-11 lead in the open- Delton Kellogg senior guard Jordan Rench flips a shot up for two points as he flies under the rim in transition during the Panthers’ SAC Valley victory over visiting Lawton Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ing quarter and upped their lead to 34-21 by the half. They were up 18 heading into the fourth quarter, and Lawton was able to make things interesting in the fourth quarter. The Blue Devils were within ten points with two minutes to play. A few small runs of turnovers allowed the Lawton guys to get back in the game a bit. Delton Kellogg senior guard Richard Hill crashes through a crowd of Lawton defenders in the paint to score two points during his team’s senior night victory over the visiting Blue Devils Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lawton had three guys in double figures Alex Rueff with 14, Austin Bums with 13 and Jake Rueff with 11. The win moves the Panthers to 5-6 in the SAC Valley Division this season. They close out conference play at Galesburg-Augusta Friday. DK girls best Blue Devils a second time in SAC Valley Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ basket- ball team pushed its Southwestern Athletics Conference Valley Division record to 5-6 with a 51-22 win over visiting Lawton Friday night HASTINGS CHARTER TOWNSHIP 2020 NOTICE OF BOARD OF REVIEW PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Review will meet at the Township Hall, 885 River Rd., Hastings, Ml 49058 to examine and review the 2020 assessment roll. The board will convene on the following dates for the hearing of appeals of assessments or taxable values, poverty exemptions, parcel classification appeals and/or current year qualified agricultural denials: Tuesday, March 3, 2020, 1:00 pm Wednesday, March 11, 2020, 9:00 am to Noon and 6:00 to 9:00 pm Thursday, March 12, 2020, 9:00 am to Noon and 1:00 to 4:00 pm Organizational Meeting Only And on such additional days as required to hear all persons who have given no­ tice of the desire to be heard until assessment rolls have been revised, corrected and approved. APPEALS ARE HEARD ON FIRST COME FIRST SERVE BASIS; letter appeals will be accepted and must be received no later than 5:00 pm March 6, 2020 Tentative ratios and estimated multipliers for 2019 are as follows: Agricultural 49.40% 1.0121 Commercial 48.51% 1.0307 Industrial 52.42% 0.9538 Residential 47.12% 1.0611 Personal Property 50.00% 1.0000 Tentative equalization factor of 1.0000 for all classes is expect­ ed after completion of Board of Review. Jim Brown, Supervisor - Hastings Charter Township Kevin Harris, Assessor - Hastings Charter Township American with Disabilities (ADA) Notice The township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon seven-(7) days’ notice to Hastings Charter Township. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact Castleton Township by writing or calling. Hastings Charter Township Clerk 885 River Rd. Hastings, Ml 49058 269-948-9690 137214 Delton Kellogg’s Kiersten Moore protects the basketball and looks for an open teammate as she’s defended in the high-post by Lawton’s Lily Grear Friday in Delton. (Photo by Brett Bremer) at Delton Kellogg High School. The Panthers will look to close out the SAC Valley season at .500 with a win at GalesburgAugusta Friday (Feb. 28). The Delton Kellogg girls bested the Blue Devils 54-27 when the two teams met in Lawton last month, and a win Friday would mean a sweep of the season series with the Rams as well. “I thought tonight was a nice win,” Delton Kellogg head coach Mike Mohn said Friday. “Lawton is struggling this year, and often times when you play a team that is struggling you don’t really play. That has been some­ thing we have had an issue with this year, playing up and down with your opponent. I was really, really pleased with our effort today in making some of those changes and getting that part of it done. The second group went in and they played well, they made the extra pass and they looked for each other.” Holly McManus and Eva FernandezVillalobos had 12 points each, with FernandezVillalobos upping her U.S. high-point total once again. Erin Kapteyn finished with 11 points in the ballgame in which 11 different Delton Kellogg girls scored. Abbie Bever hit a pair of three-pointers to finish with six points for Delton Kellogg. Delton Kellogg ran out to a 12-5 lead on the Blue Devils, led 24-14 at the half and then poured in 20 points in the third quarter. The win over the Blue Devils pushed the Panthers’ record to 9-9 on the season. “(Finishing over .500) is something we’ve been working on,” Mohn said. “We have let a few games go. Offensive rebounds have killed us. Turnovers have killed us. It has cost us two or three games that I really think we should have one. That happens throughout the season and it is what it is. I am hoping tonight was as nice way to go into the last week of the regular season.” The Panthers had an early time-out to dis­ cuss closing out on Lawton shooters Friday, and they got that under control, and on the defensive glass the Panthers did a good job to prevent the Blue Devils second chances after allowing 19 offensive rebounds to Constantine in their previous bailgame. Delton Kellogg’s Emale Tack goes in for two points with a Lawton defender on her back during the Panthers’ SAC Valley win over the visiting Blue Devils Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Vikings win big over DK boys The Lakewood Varsity Boys’ Basketball team picked up it’s eight win of the season Tuesday, knocking off visiting 62-40. The Vikings outscored the Panthers 27-19 in the first half, and then surged in the third quarter with a 21-5 run. A group of 11 guys scored for the Vikings, Lead by the double-figure trio of Jacob Elenbaas, Bryant Makley and Brady Gawne. Makley had a team-high 14 points, Gawne 13 and Elenbaas 12. Rich Hill led Delton with ten points. Jacob Kemp and Blake Thomas had eight points each. Lakewood is now 8-9 overall this season. The Vikings return to GLAC action at Leslie Friday. Delton Kellogg falls to 8-9 as well with the defeat. They will be back at it in the Southwestern Athletic Conference Valley Division Friday at Galesburg-Augusta. �Thursday, February 27, 2020 — The Hastings Banner SPORTS SECTION — Page 5 Arrows best TK on return route to finals Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans will be better in the future with the experience they gained in the bottom posi­ tion Wednesday night. The Thornapple Kellogg varsity wrestlers pushed to stay on the mat and score points for six minutes time and again against the top­ ranked Lowell Red Arrows in the Division 2 Regional Semifinals in Middleville. Only TK lightweights Zack Gibson and Kyron Zoet were able to pull out victories in a 47-6 Lowell win. The Red Arrows, chasing their seventh consecutive Division 2 State Championship, went on to a 65-6 win over Byron Center in the regional final. Lowell had 14 individual district medalists at its tournament at Lowell High School last Saturday, which included the Trojans. Only seven of those guys even got sent to the mat against the Trojans Wednesday. Junior 145-pounder Matthew Middleton, an individual regional qualifier himself, couldn’t really do anything but smile after heading to the Lowell bench to shake the Red Arrow coach’s hand. He was one of just three TK guys to get pinned against the Red Arrows, but it wasn’t for a lack of fight during his three minutes on the mat. Lowell senior Austin Boone, a recent Penn State University signee, is chasing not only his fourth team state championship, but a fourth individual state championship as well this winter. Middleton fought off a pin late in the first period, but Boone finally put him on his shoulders after a quick reversal in the second period. It took the Red Arrows ten matches to clinch the semifinal round victory. Lowell pushed its lead to 34-6 with four bouts to go as Jacob Cutler bested Jake Middleton 4-2 at 171 pounds. Trojan senior Adam Bush had to be the first one to take the mat after Lowell had sealed Thomapple Kellogg’s Austin Chivis strains to try and break the grasp of Lowell’s' Zeth Strejc during their 135-pound match Wednesday in Middleville. (Photo by Brett1 Bremer) Thomapple Kellogg senior Adam Bush tries to work towards a take down during the first period of his 189-pound match against Lowell’s Carter Blough in the Division 2 Regional Semifinal at Thornapple Kellogg High School Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) DK girls best Blue Devils a second’time in SAC Valley Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ basket­ ball team pushed its Southwestern Athletics Conference Valley Division record to 5-6 with a 51-22 win over visiting Lawton Friday night at Delton Kellogg High School. The Panthers will look to close out the SAC Valley season at .500 with a win at GalesburgAugusta Friday (Feb. 28). The Delton Kellogg girls bested the Blue Devils 54-27 when the two teams met in Lawton last month, and a win Friday would mean a sweep of the season series with the Rams as well. “I thought tonight was a nice win,” Delton Kellogg head coach Mike Mohn said Friday. “Lawton is struggling this year, and often times when you play a team that is struggling you don’t really play. That has been some­ thing we have had an issue with this year, playing up and down with your opponent. I was really, really pleased with our effort today in making some of those changes and getting that part of it done. The second group went in and they played well, they made the extra pass and they looked for each other.” Holly McManus and Eva FernandezVillalobos had 12 points each, with FernandezVillalobos upping her U.S. high-point total once again. Erin Kapteyn finished with 11 points in the bailgame in which 11 different Delton Kellogg girls scored. Abbie Bever hit a pair of three-pointers to finish with six points for Delton Kellogg. Delton Kellogg ran out to a 12-5 lead on the Blue Devils, led 24-14 at the half and then poured in 20 points in the third quarter. The win over the Blue Devils pushed the Panthers’ record to 9-9 on the season. “(Finishing over .500) is something we’ve been working on,” Mohn said. “We have let a few games go. Offensive rebounds have killed us. Turnovers have killed us. It has cost us two or three games that I really think we should have one. That happens throughout the season and it is what it is. I am hoping tonight was as nice way to go into the last week of the regular season.” The Panthers had an early time-out to dis­ cuss closing out on Lawton shooters Friday, and they got that under control, and on the HHS and TK send six through to Ford Field Brett Bremer Sports Editor A pair of Saxon seniors went to Lowell looking to earn a spot in the state finals for the first time Saturday, and one of them still has wrestling ahead. Hastings 140-pounder Gabe Trick guaran­ teed himself a spot in the Division 2 Individual State Finals at Ford Field in downtown Detroit the weekend of March 6-7 with a runner-up finish at his weight class at the Division 2 Regional Tournament in Lowell. Trick will be joined at the Division 2 State Finals by five Thomapple Kellogg wrestlers who also placed among the top four in thenrespective weight classes at the regional Saturday. Trick moved his win total for the season to 37, against nine defeats, with a 7-4 decision over Whitehall’s Marco Moore and a pin of Forest Hills Eastern’s Gabe Hassan in his first two matches Saturday. The pin clinched his state finals spot. Trick’s senior teammate Tyler Dull was 0-2 on the day in the 160-pound bracket, seeing his senior season finish with a record of 33-13. Thomapple Kellogg got a regional champi­ onship from 103-pounder Ashton Corson. Corson scored a 7-0 win over Spring Lake’s Max Montgomery in the 103-pound champi­ onship match. TK also had Zack Gibson sec­ ond at 112 pounds. Gibson had an opening round bye, and fol­ lowed that up by outscoring Lowell’s Ramsy Mutschler 2-1 in the semifinals. Spring Lake’s Jack Parker won a close one, 3-1, over Gibson in the 112-pound championship match. Corson started his tournament with pins of Cedar Springs’ Landon Demorest and team­ mate Hunter Pitsch. Pitsch still managed to make it through to Ford Field. Three of the five Trojans who reached the blood round got the victory they needed to qualify for the state finals. Matthew Middleton at 145, Kyron Zoet at 125 and Pitsch at 103 all placed fourth after winning their do-or-die consolation final round matches (blood round). Pitsch, Zoet and Middleton all won their opening bouts to get into the semifinals, but then were knocked to the consolation bracket. Middleton earned his finals spot with a 9-3 win over Wayland’s Adam Ordway. Zoet best­ ed Fruitport’s Connor Sykes 8-4 in the blood round. Pitsch bounced back from his loss to Corson to beat Sparta’s Rayana Sahagun 7-2. the victory. He went hard early, getting an initial take down against Lowell’s Carter Blough. Bush couldn’t quite hold on as he tried to throw a big headlock late in that first period, and Blough managed a take down of his own to pull in front 3-2 right before the buzzer. Blough went on to a 6-2 win to end Bush’s varsity wrestling career. Senior Nick Bushman also wrestled his final bout for the Trojans Wednesday. He wasn’t quite able to secure a take down throughout his 140-pound match with Dawson Jankowski, falling 6-0. TK scored all six of its points in the first three bouts of the evening, taking a 6-3 lead in the dual that opened at 112 pounds. Gibson’ bested Lowell’s Dominik Peplinski 6-0 intheir 119-pound match. TK’s Zoet scored a 7-4 win over Lowell’s Bryce McCune at 125' pounds. Lowell got decisions against TK from Ramsy Mutschler at 112 pounds, Zeth Strejc-’ at 135, Jacob Cutler at 171, Grant Pratt at 285,and major decisions from Cole Huisman at 130 and Jacob Hough at 215. Carson Crace at 152 pounds and James Fotis at 160 had the' Red Arrows’ other two pins. The News Is Just the Beginning defensive glass the Panthers did a good job to prevent the Blue Devils second chances after allowing 19 offensive rebounds to Constantine in their previous ballgame. »/6ivs & Events Lions a win shy of scoring spot in regional final The Lions needed one more victory some­ where, but just ran out of wrestlers. Hesperia scored a 42-36 win over the Maple Valley varsity wrestling team in the Division 4 Regional Semifinals at Carson City-Crystal High School Wednesday. Hesperia took forfeit wins at 135 pounds, 140 pounds and 145 pounds to close out the dual after Maple Valley junior Jesse Brumm gave his team a 36-24 lead with those three weight classes remaining. Brumm stuck River Roberson 50 seconds into the second period of their match, the fourth pin of the evening for the Lion guys. Maple Valley had an 18-6 lead through the first four weight classes, a string that started with Cody Taylor taking a forfeit win for the Lions at 152 pounds. Johnny Majersky from Hesperia pinned Maple Valley’s Dillon Jorgensen in the 160pound match, but the Lions added pins from AJ Raymond and David Hosack-Frizzell at 171 pounds and 189. Raymond stuck Zander Nadjkovic 54 seconds into the second period of their bout while Hosack-Frizzell put Hunter Billman on his shoulders with 15 seconds left in the first period. Gage Ertman earned scored a first-period pin for the Lions too, at 103 pounds, besting Alex Sayer in 1:29. Matthew Slaght followed up with a forfeit win for the Lions at 112 pounds, and his team led 30-18 at that point. Hesperia also took 12 points thanks to voids in the Lion line-up at 215 pounds and 285 pounds, and added six more points with Aydan Sturtevant-Roesly’s pin of Jordan Thornton a minute into the 119-pound match. Neither team had a wrestler to put out at 125 pounds. Host Carson City-Crystal won the regional championship Wednesday, beating Hesperia 56-12 in the regional final after a 69-9 win over the Climax-Scotts/Martin team in its regional semifinal match-up. New Lothrop, Onaway, Hart, Clinton, Manchester, Hudson and Lawton will join Carson City-Crystal at the Wings Event Center in Kalamazoo Feb. 28-29 for the Division 4 Team State Finals. Your Community... Your Family.. .Your Interests... Your Home...Your World... Can 800.870.7085 or pick it up at one of our locations listed below! Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 HastingsDANNER Area locations to purchase the Hastings Banner! Hastings Gun Lake Woodland One Stop Shop (Phillips 66) (M-43 N) Sam’s Gourmet Foods Woodland Express Superette Pine Lake Nashville Doster Country Store Trading Post Hastings Johnny's Prairieville Little’s Country Store The General Store Prairieville Fast Stop Nashville Johnny's Cloverdale Nashville C Store Cloverdale General Carl's Family Fare Tom’s Market Marathon Mega Bev Penn-Nook Gift Shop MV Pharmacy Brown's Cedar Creek Grocery Phillips 66 Gas Station (W. State St.) Lake.Odessa Family Fare Gas Station Shelbyville Walgreens Town & Country Delton Middleville Family Fare Speedway Delton Johnny's Middleville Marketplace Greg's Get-lt-N-Go Middleville Johnny’s Banfield Banfield General Store Dowling Goldsworthys Lake-O-Express Lake-O-Mart Lake Odessa Johnny's Carl's Freeport L&J's Freeport General Store �Page 6 — Thursday, February 27, 2020 — The Hastings Banner SPORTS SECTION Trojans’ start propels them through to regional Brett Bremer Sports Editor Moving on is moving on. The Thomapple Kellogg varsity competi­ tive cheer team will be at Portage Northern today (Feb. 29) for the Division 2 Regional Tournament after a top four finish on the mats at Thomapple Kellogg High School. The regional hosts from Portage Northern .will have a shiny, new district championship trophy to show off in the case at the high school after winning the Feb. 22 Division 2 District Tournament in Middleville. The Huskies took the title Saturday with an overall score of 725.40 points. Sturgis was second with 715.34 points, ahead of Hastings 712.62 and Thomapple Kellogg 702.46. Hamilton was in fifth place, more than 17 points behind the Trojans. Portage Northern had scores of 219.10 in round one, 211.30 in round two and 295.00 in round three. Thomapple Kellogg had the top round one score of the meet at 219.70, and then added a 205.86 in round two after a tenpoint deduction for having two few cheerlead­ ers in on the performance. TK scored a 276.90 in round three, a score hurt by an eight-point deduction. The Trojans were in second place, less than five points behind Portage Northern heading into round three. The district was the fifth time the Huskies have finished higher at a meet this season than the Trojans, in six tries. TK finished ahead of the Portage Northern girls at the Jan. 4 Grandville Invitational. The Trojans have had Riley Hall, Ava Phillips, Liberty Tetzlaff and Anna Benedict in all three rounds through the last few weeks of the season, with Zoey Thomas joining them in round three and Kylie Smith the fifth in rounds one and two. “We’re happy to be moving on,” TK head Thornapple Kellogg’s Anna Benedict, Liberty Tetzlaff and Riley Smith do the splits in round two during the Division 2 District Tournament at TKHS Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) coach Ally Clouse said. “Like I told my girls. Do you know how many teams in this gym tonight, and in the state of Michigan, would kill for a fourth place to get out of their dis­ trict? Put it into perspective. I’m proud of what they did today. They got another best round one and two score. Round three was a little lower than I thought they deserved, but it is what it is.” Clouse though her girls could have received a bit better score in round three. The Hastings Saxons were a bit perplexed by their round one score, a 211.90, that had them in seventh place at that point. While the opening round wasn’t perfect for the Saxons, their round three was better than anyone else’s earning them a score of 298.20 in that round. “Round three looked great,” Hastings head coach Linsey Jacinto said. “We really changed the way we have approached that round in practice. They worked really hard. They have totally changed their presentation of that round, and that had a huge impact today, for sure.” They really know they’ve done well when the applause continue when they’re off the mat. “We heard them after we were out in the hallway,” Jacinto said of the cheers. “That was our favorite. We knew as soon as all of those tucks hit in the beginning that it was going to be a really good round.” Hastings scored a 202.52 in round two, a score that could improve with a little more work on the Saxons’ back tucks in the round. Coach Jacinto was thrilled with the way her girls performed their other skills in the round though: a toe touch, back-walkovers, back-handsprings and switch-splits. Sturgis took the runner-up spot with scores of 214.90 in round one, 203.94 in round two and 296.50 in round three. Hamilton had a fifth-place point total of 685.22, ahead of Plainwell 677.70, Gull Lake 659.58, Wayland 618.00, Stevensville Lakeshore 610.68, Mattawan 609.00, Vicksburg 594.90, Edwardsburg 582.80, Harper Creek 545.30 and St. Joseph 505.40. The Thornapple Kellogg varsity competitive cheer team performs during round three of its Division 2 District Tournament at TKHS Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The top four at Portage Northern Saturday earn spots in the Division 2 State Finals at the DeltaPlex. Undefeated duo headed to Ford Field Vikings get five through to state finals Brett Bremer Sports Editor ; The east wall is lined with banners com­ memorating Lakewood High School’s indi­ vidual state champions. Most of them are . wrestlers. ' Only the varsity volleyball program’s ban• ner on the north wall has more championships commemorated on it than the wrestling > team’s. . There is still room for firsts though. The Lakewood varsity wrestling team will send two undefeated wrestlers to the individual ' state finals for the first time after seniors Jon Clack and Grant Clarkson kept their perfect records intact by winning championships at their Division 3 Individual Regional Tournament at Lakewood High School . Saturday. , Clack, a two-time state medalist and now 7 four-time state qualifier, is 50-0 on the season after pinning Belding’s Mattsen Putney in the 189-pound championship match Saturday. Clarkson moved his record to 38-0 with his •*pin of Orchard View’s Jordan Tuttle in the 285-pound championship match. Clarkson was third at heavyweight at the individual finals a year ago in his first trip to the finals. « “It is awesome. I have never looked at a chart and seen 50-0 going to the state chatnpi* onship,” Clack said. “I am ready for a state championship,” he Lakewood senior Grant Clarkson has his arm raised after improving his record to 36-0 with a pin of Muskegon Orchard View’s Jordan Tuttle in the 285-pound regional championship match Saturday at Lakewood High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) added. “That has been the goal. I am there, physically and mentally I am ready to win. That has been the goal since day one, but I have never been mentally able to performa at all times. Now I’m there. I’m ready to go.” All four of the Vikings’ state medalists from a year ago are returning to Ford Field, with Zachary Gibson and Kanon Atwell each getting through Saturday’s regional as well. Gibson, a fifth-place state medalist a year ago, was second at 112-pounds. Atwell placed third at 119 pounds. Atwell is now a three­ time state qualifier. He earned a fourth place medal at the state finals last winter. Their teammate Keegan VanAlstine will make is first state finals appearance this year after placing second at 140 pounds. Lakewood had two other regional qualifi­ ers, 152-pounder Vem Fields and 160-pounder Gavin Vaughn, who each lost out in the blood round (consolation semifinals) Saturday. Clarkson, who didn’t make it out of districts as a sophomore and then reached the state semifinals as a junior, caught up with Vaughn soon after a 13-7 loss to Corunna’s Matt Weiss ended his season with more than 30 victories. “I asked him about next year,” Clarkson said of the quick interaction in a quiet corner of the hot, crowded gym. “I said does that make you want to go out and do better next year, instead of losing like this year, and make it to state? He told me it did. I told him, there are going to be kids in the offseason who sit at home and do nothing, and there are going to be other kids who go put in more time and work. I said, which one do you want to be? Do you want to be at the state finals in March, or do you want to be going home early?” Clarkson heard some speeches like that Lakewood’s Zachary Gibson (right) tries to fight out of the grasp of Chesaning’s Jordan Rodriguez in the 112-pound championship match Saturday at the Division 3 Individual Regional Tournament hosted by the Vikings. (Photo by Brett Bremer) after falling himself in the blood round at individual districts as a sophomore. No blood round for Clarkson this season. He pinned Muskegon Catholic Central’s Frank Bartolameou 48 seconds into their quarterfinal match, and then pinned Chesaning’s Brenden Quackenbush late in the second period of their semifinal. Clarkson momentarily got a little out of position working for the initial take down in the first period of the championship match with Tuttle, but he eventually steadied himself and got back under control. Clack had three pins in his three matches sticking Unity Christian’s Johnny Bosma and then Durand’s Hunter Spaulding, both in less than a minute, to reach the final against Putney. Clack said he has been helped by becoming a more technical wrestler this winter. Clarkson has seen his biggest strides come in his aggressiveness, going for his own attacks rather than reacting. Gibson got to his 112-pound final by pin­ ning his first two foes, Aidan Perreault of Montague and D’Angelo Campas of Corunna, in a the first period. He was bested by Jordan Rodriguez from Chesaning 11-2 in their final match. VanAlstine got to the 140-pound champi­ onship match with a pin of Fremont’s Matthew Halasinski and a 6-4 win over Godwin Heights’ Jamykal Lewis in the semifinals. He was pinned by Alma’s Jarrett Ferman in the championship round. Atwell knocked off Grand Rapids Catholic Central’s Chase Schroder in the blood round, after a semifinal loss to Alma’s Giani Tripp, and then beat Montague’s Cale Coppess 6-3 in the match for third. DK boys get out and run in senior night victory ; Lakewood senior Jon Clack helps Selding’s Mattsen Putney off the mat after pinning him 88 seconds into their 189pound championship match at the Division 3 Individual Regional Tournament at Lakewood High School Saturday. Clack moved his record to 48-0 on the season with the victory. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Sports Editor Lawton made things interesting here and there after the Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball team started its senior night, Southwestern Athletic Conference Valley Division ballgame on an 11-2 run. Nothing was more interesting to Delton Kellogg head coach Jason Howland than to see his guys really get out and run on Friday night. “I was very happy with the way we pushed the ball up the court. That is something we have been lacking the last couple games, and that is me,” DK head coach Jason Howland said with a smile. “I am all for that. Do that where I can just sit there and you guys can have some fun. Make some good decisions with the basketball.” The Panthers stayed under control on the break, knocked down a few shots from the outside, got outstanding senior performances and scored a 66-55 win over the Blue Devils - their second win of the season over the Lawton boys. “It was just fun to come out here and play with the guys,” Delton Kellogg senior guard Jordan Rench said. “We have been together since eighth grade. It is something you get to open up your eyes and enjoy. Coach has been with us since we were younger. It is a great feeling to get a win.” Rench had nine points in the win. Senior center Dawson Grizzle did a little bit of everything for the DK boys, leading the team in scoring with 18 points, including a couple dunks, crashing the boards, swatting shots away and even running a couple offen­ sive sets from the top of the key. “Dawson has just been playing awesome basketball the last month. He has to be aver­ aging a double-double. The kid is all heart, for sure. He is definitely the centerpiece of the offense and the defense,” Howland said. “His love of the game, it shows.” It was a big night for all five DK senior guys. Tommy Sheldon 11, Richard Hill 12 and Jayden Ashley ten. They all showed how they’ve grown on Tuesday night. Ashley is trying to transform his game a bit to fill in in the paint with center Cole Pape out with an injury. Rench showed off some improved impulse control. He picked up an early second foul trying to swat a ball away in the back-court after a missed shot and had to go to the bench. He soon returned to the floor and played good defense with his hands up and his feet moving for most of the rest of the night, not picking up a third foul until late in the bailgame. The Panthers took a 16-11 lead in the open­ ing quarter and upped their lead to 34-21 by the half. They were up 18 heading into the fourth quarter, and Lawton was able to make things interesting in the fourth quarter. The Blue Devils were within ten points with two minutes to play. A few small runs of turnovers allowed the Lawton guys to get back in the game a bit. Lawton had three guys in double figures Alex Rueff with 14, Austin Bums with 13 and Jake Rueff with 11. The win moves the Panthers to 5-6 in the SAC Valley Division this season. They close out conference play at Galesburg-Augusta Friday. �Thursday, February 27, 2020 — The Hastings Banner SPORTS SECTION — Page 7 Juniors Belew and Brumm win regional titles Uons sending four to Ford Field Brett Bremer Sports Editor Things got tougher and tougher as the tour­ nament wore on for Delton Kellogg junior Delton Kellogg 135-pounder Vinnie Quick tries to fight his way out of the grasp of New Lothrop’s Logan Wolford during the first period of their opening round match Saturday at the Division 4 Individual Regional Tournament hosted by Carson City­ Crystal. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Maple Valley junior Jesse Brumm, a two-time state medalist, has an arm raised after a first period pin of St. Louis’ Conner Daniels in the first round of the 130-pound bracket Saturday at the Division 4 Individual Regional Tournament hosted by Carson City-Crystal High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hunter Belew Saturday, but he met every challenge. Belew qualified for the individual state finals for the second time in his varsity wres­ tling career, besting Beaverton’s Jacob Cassiday in the 171-pound championship match at the Division 4 Individual Regional Tournament hosted by Carson City-Crystal Saturday. Belew scored a bit late takedown in the second period against Cassiday, putting him to his back in the closing seconds to take a 5-1 lead. Belew had the only two take downs of the match. He’ll be joined at the Division 4 Individual State Finals at Ford Field in Detroit March 6-7 by four Maple Valley wrestlers, AJ Raymond, Gage Ertman, Matthew Slaght and Jesse Brumm who all had top four finishes at Carson City-Crystal Saturday. Brumm, a two-time state medalist, won the 130-pound weight class Saturday to improve his season record to 43-1. He scored a 6-1 win against Hesperia’s Mack Baird in the 130pound championship match, after a 12-3 major decision in the semifinals over Hesperia’s River Roberson. Brumm got his day started with a quick pin of St. Louis’ Conner Daniels. Belew had two pins to open the tournament Delton Kellogg junior 171-pounder Hunter Belew works to pin Bad Axe’s Cody Bailey in their opening round match Saturday at the Division 4 Individual Regional Tournament hosted by Carson City-Crystal. (Photo by Brett Bremer) as well, sticking Bad Axe’s Cody Bailey 51 seconds into their 171-pound quarterfinal match. He followed that up by pinning Carson City-Crystal’s Nash Akin in 3:!6 in the semi­ finals. The Panther pack wasn’t as big as it could have been. DK had four regional qualifiers, b.itt Vinnie Quick was the only other one able tb wrestle Saturday. Quick was bested in his two matches to finish the year with a 21-18 overall record. All five Maple Valley regional qualifiers took the mat, and four got through. Gage Ertman reached the championship finals for the Lions at 103 pounds, falling 9-3 to St. Charles’ Isaiah Mullins to close the day. Ertman is now 38-8 on the season. He opened the tournament by quickly pinning Elkton­ Pigeon-Bay Port’s Tyson Steinman. He fol­ lowed that up with a 9-6 semifinal victory over New Lothrop’s Daven Lockwood. Slaght, a state medalist as a freshman, was third at 112 pounds for the Lions and Raymond fourth at 171 pounds. Slaght pinned Lakeview’s Bryce Jacobs 4:06 into their con­ solation semifinal match to secure his spot in the state finals, and then defeated Gabe Mullins from St. Charles 10-7 in the match for third. Raymond pinned Bailey from Bad Axb 3:52 into their blood round (consolation semi­ final) match, then was bested 4-3 in the match for third by Akin. ■ Maple Valley’s David Hosack-Frizzell got one win in the 189-pound bracket, in the first round of consolation, but was pinned by Beaverton’s Jake Fischer in the blood round. Trio of triples not enough to topple Mounties As the season nears its conclusion, the Hastings High School basketball teams continue to struggle in their battle for victories. Hastings sophomore Carly Warner (23) drives to the basket as Jackson Northwest’s Morgan Hanchett (30) tries to cut her off. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Hastings junior Carter launches a 3-point try from the Saxons’ 56-48 loss Northwest Friday. (Photo by Hewitt (32) the corner in to Jackson Perry Hardin) The Hastings boys’ team dropped a 56-48 decision to Jackson Northwest Friday, then fell to Battle Creek Pennfield Tuesday, 50-39. The losses dropped the Saxons to 6-12 on the season, 3-10 in the Interstate 8 Athletic Conference. In the Northwest game, junior Kirby Beck led Hastings with 19 points, while senior Carter Cappon added 14 points, including three 3-point baskets. On the girls’ side, Hastings lost to Jackson Northwest 72-33 Friday and 50-36 to Pennfield Tuesday. The Saxons are now 0-13 in conference play and 0-19 overall. Hastings concludes 1-8 conference play Friday with a doubleheader at Marshall, with Hastings sophomore Brook Youngs (11) puts up a runner against Jackson Northwest’s Anya Hedrick (24) during Friday’s varsity game at Hastings. The Mounties won 72-33. (Photo by Perry Hardin) the varsity girls’ game at 6 p.m., followed immediately by the varsity boys’ contest. Hastings senior Carter Cappon (14) takes aim at the basket as senior teammatb Evan Murphy (50) sets a screen on a Jackson Northwest defender during Friday’? varsity boys basketball game at Hastings. Cappon hit three 3-pointers against the Mounties. (Photo by Perry Hardin) DK girls edge Maple Valley for final regional cheer spot SAXON WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE c... The Delton girls get another day on the mat. The Delton Kellogg varsity competitive cheer team took the fourth and final regional qualifying spot at its Division 4 District Tournament hosted by Bronson Saturday edg­ ing out Maple Valley by less than two points for that final spot. The Panthers will head to Jenison Saturday for their Division 4 Regional Tournament. Lawton, Lake Michigan Catholic and Gobles were the runaway top three teams at the tournament, with Lawton, the Southern Michigan Competitive Cheer Conference champion, taking the district title with 719.44 points. Lake Michigan Catholic was second with 704.48 points and Gobles third with 700.68. DK got through with an overall score of 634.96, with Maple Valley right behind at 633.16. Three other teams, White Pigeon, Lawrence and Hartford were fewer than ten points behind the Panthers. Delton Kellogg had a nearly 13 points lead on the Maple Valley girls for that final region­ al qualifying spot heading into the third round when the Maple Valley girls put together a score of 275.50 - its highest round three of the season. A ten point deduction in round two was the difference between the two teams in the end. Delton Kellogg had scores of 207.3 in round one, 163.66 in round two and 264 in round three. Maple Valley closed out its season with a 275.50 score in round three. The Lions scored 201.30 points in round one and 156.36 in round two after the ten-point deduction. White Pigeon finished the day with an overall score of 628.70, ahead of Lawrence 628.10, Hartford 625.40, Bloomingdale 604.70, Quincy 598.72, Bronson 562.90 and Union City 561.10. Away 8:00 AM Boys Var. Bowling MHSAA Ind. Regionals @ Continental Lanes Away 4:30 PM Girls 7th B Basketball - Harper Creek MS Home 10:00 AM Girls Var. Cheerleading MHSSA Div. 2 Regional Tournament Away 4: 30 PM Girls 8th B Basketball - Harper Creek MS Away 1:00 PM Boys Var. Swimming Conference Meet @ Hastings. Swim & 5: 30 PM Boys Freshman Basketball - Marshall High School Home 5:30 PM Girls 8th A Basketball - Harper Creek MS Away 5:30 PM Girls 7th A Basketball - Harper Creek MS Home 7:00 PM Boys Junior Varsity Basketball - Marshall High School Home 4:30 PM Girts 7th B Basketball - Pennfield Middle School Home 7: 00 PM Girls Junior Varsity Basketball Postponed- Marshall HS Away 4: 30 PM Girls 8th B Basketball - Pennfield Middle School Away 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 Dive Finals begin © 1:00 PM. Home 1:15 PM Girls Var. Bowling MHSAA Ind. Regionals 6 Continental Lanes Away MONDAY, MARCH 02 5: 30 PM Girls 8th A Basketball - Pennfield Middle School Away FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28 5:30 PM Girls 7th A Basketball - Pennfield Middle School Home 8: 00 AM Girls Var. Bowling MHSAA Team Regionals @ Continental Lanes Away 7:30 PM Giris Varsity Basketball Marshall High School MHSAA 1:15 PM Boys Var. Bowling MHSAA Team Regionals @ Continental Lanes Away Districts © Marshall 4:00 PM Boys Var. Swimming Conference Meet © Hastings Diving @ 12:00 noon, Swim prelims @ 4:00 PM. Call any time to place your Hastings Banner classified ad SATURDAY. FEBRUARY 29 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27 4:15 PM Girls Freshman Basketball - Delton Kellogg HS Away WEDNESDAY, MARCH 04 Home 4:15 PM Girls Junior Varsity Basketball - Marshall High School Away 6: 00 PM Girls Varsity Basketball - Marshall High School Away 7: 30 PM Boys Varsity Basketball - Marshall High School Away TBA Girls Varsity Basketball MHSAA District Semi-Finals @ Marshall Away 4:30 PM Girls 7th B Basketball - Marshall Middle School Away 4: 30 PM Girls 8th B Basketball - Marshall Middle School Home 5: 30 PM Girts 8th A Basketball - Marshall Middle School Home 5:30 PM Girls 7th A Basketball - Marshall Middle School Away Times and dates subject to change 269-945-7777 MHOUR 384 Haynes Loop Dr., Hastings TOWING • AUTO BODY REPAIR • MECHANICAL REPAIR • TIRE SALES • �Page 8 — Thursday, February 27, 2020 — The Hastings Banner SPORTS SECTION Saxons’ finish, Trojans’ start propel both Brett Bremer Sports Editor Moving on is moving on. The Hastings and Thornapple Kellogg var­ sity competitive cheer teams will be at Portage ■ Northern Saturday for the Division 2 Regional . Tournament after top four finishes on the mats .; at Thomapple Kellogg High School. The regional hosts from Portage Northern will have a shiny, new district championship trophy to show off in the case at the high ■ - school after winning the Feb. 22 Division 2 • .District Tournament in Middleville. y The Huskies took the title Saturday with an overall score of 725.40 points. Sturgis was second with 715.34 points, ahead of Hastings x 712.62 and Thornapple Kellogg 702.46. Hamilton was in fifth place, more than 17 points behind the Trojans. “We’re happy to be moving on,” TK head coach Ally Clouse said. “Like I told my girls. Do you know how many teams in this gym tonight, and in the state of Michigan, would kill for a fourth place to get out of their dis­ trict? Put it into perspective. I’m proud of -* what they did today. They got another best round one and two score. Round three was a little lower than I thought they deserved, but it is what it is.” The Saxons were a bit perplexed by their round one score, a 211.90, that had them in seventh place at that point. While the opening round wasn’t perfect for the Saxons, their round three was better than anyone else’s earning them a score of 298.20 in that round. “Round three looked great,” Hastings head coach Linsey Jacinto said. “We really changed the way we have approached that round in practice. They worked really hard. They have totally changed their presentation of that round, and that had a huge impact today, for sure.” Hastings junior flyer Savana Leonard is at the center of it all in round three. “It definitely makes us go harder when we can hear the crowd screaming and the coach is jumping up and down,” Leonard said. They really know they’ve done well when the applause continue when they’re off the mat. The Hastings varsity competitive cheer team celebrates learning of its third-place finish at the Division 2 District Tournament in Middleville Saturday, a finish that earns them a spot in Saturday’s regional tournament at Portage Northern High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Riley Hall and Anna Benedict cheer together for Thornapple Kellogg during the Division 2 District Tournament in Middleville Saturday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) “We heard them after we were out in the hallway,” Jacinto said of the cheers. “That was our favorite. We knew as soon as all of those tucks hit in the beginning that it was going to be a really good round.” Portage Northern had scores of 219.10 in round one, 211.30 in round two and 295.00 in round three. Thornapple Kellogg had the top round one score of the meet at 219.70, and then added a 205.86 in round two after a tenpoint deduction for having two few cheerlead­ ers in on the performance. TK scored a 276.90 in round three, a score hurt by an eight-point deduction. The Trojans were in second place, less than five points behind Portage Northern heading into round three. The district was the fifth time the Huskies have finished higher at a meet this season than the Trojans, in six tries. TK finished ahead of the Portage Northern girls at the Jan. 4 Grandville Invitational. Hastings scored a 202.52 in round two, a score that could improve with a little more work on the Saxons’ back tucks in the round. Coach Jacinto was thrilled with the way her girls performed their other skills in the round though: a toe touch, back-walkovers, back-handsprings and switch-splits. “I feel like we had a good competition, a good season. We went through rough patches, but we were definitely able to pull through, with injuries and sickness,” Leonard said. Sturgis took the runner-up spot with scores of 214.90 in round one, 203.94 in round two and 296.50 in round three. Hamilton had a fifth-place point total of The Hastings stunt groups put on a show during round three of the Division 2 District Tournament in Middleville Saturday. The Saxons had the highest round three score of the day, finishing third overall to qualify for the regional round of the state tournament. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 685.22, ahead of Plainwell 677.70, Gull Lake 659.58, Wayland 618.00, Stevensville Lakeshore 610.68, Mattawan 609.00, Vicksburg 594.90, Edwardsburg 582.80, Harper Creek 545.30 and St. Joseph 505.40. The top four at Portage Northern Saturday earn spots in the Division 2 State Finals at the DeltaPlex. Trojans’ Van Demark wins twice at last SWMSC meet What Is The Census? Every 10 years, the U.S. Census Bureau conducts a census to determine the number of people living in the United States. What Will The Census Ask? The Census asks for less personal information than most social media profiles. Items like name, gender, age, birthday, race/ethnicity, relationship to head-of-household, owner or renter and phone number are asked. Who Gets Counted? Census forms are filled out by household. Everyone living at the address matters and everyone needs to be counted, including children. How Do I Fill It Out? It's easier than ever for 2020. You can respond online using the unique Census ID that will be mailed to you. If you don't have internet access, you can respond by phone or mail. How Is Census Information Used? Being counted helps communities create jobs, provide housing, fund K-12 education, prepare for emergencies and build schools, roads, hospitals and libraries. Key Dates Census And Elections Census data determines how many seats your state gets in Congress. Also, state and local officials use census data to draw boundaries for state and local legislative districts and school districts. Census And Information Safety By law, individual-level census Information cannot be shared. Also, census Information is secure. The Census Bureau has strong cybersecurity measures in place to protect your information. Language Assistance • Online form: 12 non-English languages • Paper form: English and Spanish ► MARCH 2020 Census invitations mailed to households ► APRIL-JULY 2020 Reminder letters/postcards sent if no response received ► JULY 2020 Self-response deadline ► DECEMBER 31,2020 Census Bureau delivers count to President ► MARCH 2021 States receive official count • Telecommunications help for the deaf • Language guides (video and print): 59 non-English languages, also American Sign Language, Braille and large print -.United States' www.becountedmi2020.com Census Bureau BE COUNTED MKHIGAN2020 Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity girls’ ski team responded well to having its string of a dozen straight Southwest Michigan Ski Conference meet wins snapped by the Portage girls a cou­ ple weeks ago. Nobody was stopping their string of conference championships. The Fighting Scots took their most lopsided victory of the season on the runs at Bittersweet Wednesday, in what coach Duane Petrosky called “near perfect racing conditions,” best­ ing runner-up Portage by 29 points to finish off a third consecutive SWMSC champion­ ship season. The Caledonia boys also had one hiccup in the five league competitions this winter, but outscored Mattawan by eight points to finish off their fourth straight conference champion­ ship run Wednesday. The two Caledonia varsity teams didn’t have a scoring skier finish worse than 11th in either the slalom or giant slalom races at the conference finale. Senior state qualifiers Keegan Beemer and Alana Black led the Caledonia teams. Beemer won both the slalom and GS events. Black was the runner-up in the GS and placed third in the slalom. That group of Caledonia seniors also includes Paul Southerton, Bobby Grant and Chase Thompson who joined Beemer in the fourth scoring spots for the Caledonia boys in both events Wednesday, and Emmalee Hamp who had top ten finishes in both girls’ events. The Caledonia girls’ GS performance was the tops of any team Wednesday, as the Scots scored just 22 points. Black had runs of 30.10 seconds and 29.66. Only the Plainwell/Thornapple Kellogg Trojan Ski team’s Lucy VanDemark was bet­ ter on either run of the GS than Black. VanDemark put together times of 28.48 and 28.40 to win the event, and was also the day’s slalom champion. Trojan teammate Madison Nagel was ninth in the GS with runs of 31.94 and 32.34. Nagel had three Scots ahead of her in the GS including Black. Sophomore Evie Schlett was fourth and Hamp sixth. Teammate Emily Dean, a junior, was right behind with a tenth­ place finish for the Scots. Caledonia also had sophomore Barbie DeGood 12th and Leah Hoogterp 18th in the event. The Caledonia girls were nearly as good in the slalom, and even had a tighter pack of scorers. Black was third with runs of 41.53 and 41.45. She was one of the only girls to improve on her first run time in her second time down the slalom course. VanDemark won the slalom with times of 38.81 and 39.03, and Mattawan’s Lilly Rose was second in the event with times of 40.67 and 41.38. Filling out the four scorers for the Trojan team in the slalom were Karina Otten in 18th, Karley Way in 21st and Whitney Johnson in 22nd. Behind VanDemark and Nagel in the GS for the Trojans were Otten in 20th and Johnson in 21st. Way was right behind in the GS in the 22nd spot. The Caledonia girls closed the meet with 52 points, ahead of Portage 81, Mattawan 81.5, Trojan Ski 113 and Kalamazoo United 144.5. The Fighting Scots were 40 points ahead of the runner-up Portage girls in the final overall standings. The Caledonia boys were 95 points ahead of second-place Mattawan after Wednesday’s 51-59 win. Portage was third Wednesday with 42 points, ahead of Kalamazoo United 73 and South Haven 82. Beemer had runs of 27.23 and 27.27 to win the GS Wednesday. In the slalom, Beemer won with runs of 35.30 and 34.51. He bested his closest competitor in the GS by nearly seven seconds total. Daniel Griel was the runner-up in the boys’ GS with runs of 27.82 and 27.17, and would place third in the slalom. Kalamazoo United’s Jaxson Terranella-Hoffman was the boys’ sla­ lom runner-up with runs of 38.81 and 37.87 to go with his fourth-place GS finish. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-03-05.pdf 83bd58b26d6fcda1cad28eb76173ec8e PDF Text Text Theater appeals to bankruptcy judge MuseuP*5 can be part of fhe future See Story on Page 6 See Editor^1 Page 4 Trojans get through first tourney test Sec Story on Page B2 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 HilStoas Mi Thursday, VOLUME 167, No. 10 NEWS BRIEFS Clocks move ahead this weekend Daylight saving time will return at 2 am. Sunday. March 8. While clocks on smartphones, comput­ ers and some watches “spring forward” on their own, time keepers on appliances, radios and walls will still need to be adjusted by humans. Everyone is encouraged to check or replace batteries in smoke detectors, and drivers are reminded to be extra alert for school children in the mornings, which will remain darker for a few more weeks. Daylight saving time will end at 2 am. Sunday. Nov. 1 Blood drives in Nashville, Middleville The American Red Cross urges the pub­ lic to join its lifesaving mission by giving blood and platelets in March in celebra­ tion of Red Cross Month. Donors of all blood types, especially type O, are urgently needed to help ensure blood is available for patients this spring. Upcoming local blood donation oppor­ tunities include: Nashville - Thursday, March 5, noon5:45 p.m., Grace Community Church. 8950 E. M-79 Highway. Middleville - Wednesday, March 11, noon-5:45 p.m., UAW 1002 Bradford White, 295 Washington St. Individuals who are 17 or older, weigh al least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. Appointments may be made by down­ loading the free Red Cross Blood Donor app, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or call­ ing 800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767). ! ‘Willy Wonka Jr.’ workshop, auditions planned The Crown Theatre in Nashville, home of The Revue, will host auditions for its upcoming production of “Willy Wonka Jr.” March 16 and 17. To help prepare students, an optional audition workshop is planned from 10 to 11 am. Saturday. March 7, at the theater, 301 N. Main St., Nashville Show dates will be May 8-10 and 15-17. 'Illis production is open to children in kindergarten through eighth grades, regardless of hometown or school district. More information can be provided by director Amanda Smith by calling 616­ 902-4193 or emailing there vuel<«-yahoo, com. Hungry Games fundraiser has ‘80s I theme Saturday Hastings Bowl will be transported back the 1980s for the fifth annual Barry County Hungry Games fundraiser Saturday, March 7, to fight childhood hun- I to I ger'learns in Barry County. comprised of five bowlers each we encouraged to dress up in their best l980s-themed gear to participate in bowl>ng, live trivia, themed-photo opportumties and giveaways from loca sponsors as part of this years 1980, Rewind event. Funds will benefit the nearly . •> participating in take-home a piugrams in Delton Kellogg. Ha»nnp and Thwnapple Kellogg school didnc«• Additionally, non-perishable K l ’“d toiletries may be dropped oil at chec See NEWS BRIEFS) page 3 •ANNER 2020 PRICE 75C Businessman, futurist Drummond dies?; Greg Chandler Staff Writer Don Drummond, who was involved with ongoing programs and successes in Barry County, died Saturday, Feb. 29. He was 84. In April 1987, Drummond, a businessman, had invited five local business and communi­ ty leaders to a meeting nt his house. The invi­ tation letter suggested Barry County was going to grow and develop in the future, and a process was needed to manage the growth in a way that was sustainable and favorable for the community. “He was very concerned about what was going on in Barry County. There were some conversations with Michigan Slate University about the growth, because [development from] Grand Rapids was coming down on us," said Fred Jacobs, president of J-Ad Graphics and a friend of Drummond’s. “They were really concerned about the farmland we had." That initial meeting led to the founding of the Bany County Futuring Committee, which Drummond would chair for the next four years. More than 1.500 county residents responded to a survey of what they wanted the county to be going forward. Action teams were established that focused on specific issues such as economic development, the environment, land use and quality of life, with more than 100 people eventually getting involved. The committee’s cn° s |ca(j U) tjle development ol such orl-fuiizaiions as the Thomapple Arts Council, Leadership BarryCounty and the Barty °niniunity Resource Network, as well as construction of Kellogg Community College •» learning Center just west of Hastings. Drummond also sen cd as vice president and general manager Flexfab and was an original board member of the Barry Community Foundation“Don was probably one of the most vision­ ary men I ever met.” said Jacobs, who replaced Drummond as chairman of the Barry County Futuring steering committee in 1991 alter Drummond resigned. “He really wanted to make a difference. He really pushed this whole futuring movement to study what issues we could work on. * Tom Mohler, a longtime friend who was part of the Futuring Committee, said Drummond had an ability to bring people together. “Don was one who could sit down in a group of dissimilar people and come up with common elements that v.c could agree on, and sometimes that was difficult “ Mohler said. “He was always able to add a calming pres­ ence to sonietimes-volatilc situations, and bring in that little element of humor.” Jim Toburen, automotive business unit Don Drummond director at Flcxfab. called Drummond a men­ tor. a colleague and a great friend. “He challenged my way to approaching work problems and even then, made me laugh.” Toburen said. “He was always look­ ing for problems to solve and encouraged me to do that. He could always see the core issues." Erin Welker, Drummond’s stepdaughter/ said Drummond had a genuine interest in. helping others grow and succeed. “He wanted people to live their best lives,’* Welker said. “He wanted everybody to have opportunity. He opened every door he could’’ Bom in Peoria, Ill., Drummond worked a series of part-time jobs to put himself through' school at the University of Illinois, where he sang in various glee clubs. It was there that he met his first wife. Susan Black, whom Ire married in 1957. ? After college, Drummond moved to Columbus. Ind., where he rose through the management ranks al Cummins Engine Co. He and his family later moved to England, where Cummins had sent him to build an engine manufacturing plant. In the mid-1970s, the family returned to the U.S., where he first worked as vice president of manufacturing at Zeeland-based office fur­ niture giant Herman Miller, and then moved to Hastings in the early 1980s after he was hired at Flexfab. “[Flexfab] picked him up because of his visionary leadership.” Jacobs said. In addition to his work on the Futuring Committee, Drummond and his wife started See DRUMMOND, page 7 Plant upgrade key to resolving state sanctions City fined $80,000 for wastewater treatment violations Rebecca Pierce Editor Hastings is on the hook for $80,000 in slate fines because of a series of violations at the wastewater treatment plant dating back to 2016. Operator error and mechanical issues caused the problems, according to an administrative consent order from the Michigan Department of Environment. Great Lakes and Energy. City Manager Jerry Czarnecki said he is not aw are of the city being cited for wastew ater treatment plant violations in the past. But he said there have been no violations since 2019 — and city staff is doing everything they can to keep it that way. Originally, the city had been facing fines of more than $200,000. but Czarnecki and a team of five - Matt Gergen, director of public services; Verne Robins, utility superintendent: George Holzworth, oa-site operator for the wastewater treatment plant; Jim Pawlowski, vice president of operation services; and Todd Sneathen, principal of Hubbell, Roth &. Clark Inc. - went to meet with state officials. “We wanted to plead our case to them.” Czarnecki said. In that meeting,city officials acknowledged the problems. Some of those issues were unpredictable. “You can’t always predict a heavy rainfall,” Czarnecki said. “Or when a pump’s going to shut down.” And some of the problems were due to age, with no grit removal or fine screening at the headworks to the plant. This resulted in severe operation and maintenance issues at the plant on the dow nstream processes. “The entire primary, thickened, scum and waste and return sludge pumping/distribution system has outlived its useful life and should be replaced,” a Hubbell, Roth & Clark report stated. ± In March 2019, the city started to take proactive steps, Czarnecki said, and it has made a difference. The $95 million wastewater treatment plant upgrade recently approved by the city will benefit the operation in substantive ways, he said. The plant serves the city, Carlton Township and Rutland and Hastings charter townships. • That plant upgrade is the key to getting the wastewater treatment operation back on track, EGLE Water Resources Division See SANCTIONS, page 6 County board to present jail pian to public March 19 Rebecca Pierce Editor 'Hie date will be March 19. The start time will be 7 p.m. The location is yet to be determined. The purpose: A forum to pitch a potential jail project to Barry County, with the size and price tag attached. The site is still a question. County commissioners are leaning toward a facility with an eventual capacity for 136 inmates at a cost not to exceed $26 million with a request going to the voters in the August election. That was the upshot of the board’s committee of the whole mcetine Tuesday. Eric Hackman, senior project manager from TowerPinkstcr, said he would draw up a plan with graphics and pictures of what jails look like, an estimated guess on cost, and define it as a 108-bed project with a master plan for an additional 28 beds if growth is experienced. “The goal for today is to prepare for our next community forum." Hackman told commissioners, “to essentially test a position out in the community and get their feedback to see if that’s something you want to go forward with on the ballot." llic Commission on Aging, which had originally been part of discussions al several community forums over the past several months, is no longer being considered as a project requiring a millage request. In a Feb. 24 letter, COA board chairwoman Sandy Kozan asked commissioners to find another way to cover the cost of a new COA building without putting a millage vote on the ballot. “We appreciate your efforts on behalf of the older adults of Barry County and pledge our commitment to work with you on this difficult but important project." In his encounters with citizens, Hackman said he heard, “pretty much, consensus that the jail needs to be replaced. I didn’t hear much from the community not to replace the jail. The criticism was. largely, why has this taken so long.” Commissioner Ben Geiger asked, “What’s the most important question that this board of commissioners has to decide right now?” “What do we want to put in front of the community to discuss at the third community forum which would be a precursor to what your thoughts are to putting something on the ballot. 7 hat would give you feedback from the community as to how to go forward with a ballot initiative." * April 17 is the target date for developing the language that would appear on the ballot, he noted. See JAIL PLAN, page B4 Barry County Qar Le,^ ansW0rs commissioners’ questions about his recommendation on the size of a new jail, He is pictured with Towef™kster senior project manager Eric Hackman. (Photos by Rebecca Pierce) �Hundreds*gather for Pjne Lake flooding upd^ LRE engineers show the audience a map that details where they plan on taking water from Pine Lake and eventually into Gun River. Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Pine Lake, along with many other lakes in Bany County, is flooded. But an informational meeting Tuesday night at Delton Kellogg Middle School may have provided some hope to residents. Unlike many lakes in southern Barry County, Pine Lake has a legal lake level 8905 feet above sea level. This past year, the flooding has brought Pine Lake to 35 feet above that level - or 894.1 feet. , Since Pine Lake straddles the county lines of Barry and Allegan, Drain Commissioners Jim Dull of Barry County and Denise Medemar of Allegan County attended to pro­ vide information about the flooding relief project that began in July 2019. The informational meeting, led by LRE engineer Dan Fredricks, was attended by more than 400 people. ; Starting roughly a year ago, Dull said he began receiving phone calls about high water and road flooding in the Pine Lake area. In response to those complaints, drain com­ missioners held public meeting on July 3, •2019, to find out what lake residents were experiencing and if there was a mandate for ’them to move forward with a relief project. XDuring the meeting, both received an over­ whelmingly large response in favor of moving ^forward with a gravity' outlet for Pine Lake. M^-Pine Lake resident Tom O’Connell said he SI his wife just completed their move from icago to Barry County. O'Connell said that, although his property ifhigh enough up that his house is not floodcti. he has neighbors who have had to run jjumps 24 hours a day to keep water out of uifcir homes. '^Most of the lake is located within Barry' Oninty — in Sections 5, 6, 7, and 8 of Prairieville Township - with a sliver in Allegan County, Section 12 of Gun Plain Township. The lake covers 660 acres and has a 1,700aerc watershed. There is 12 miles of shoreline and. at its lowest point, is 34 feet deep. Because the lake is partially in Allegan County, it is an intercounty lake, making the project an intercounty drain project. In the 1960’s. the lake was at 888 feet, which led to the building of an augmentation well in 1970. That well ran for about a year until it was shut off, Fredncks said. Dull added that the well still works as it is used by firefighters to take water off the lake from lime to time. Fredricks listed the team’s project goals as: • Preventing flooding on developed proper­ ties and public roads: • Maintaining the legal lake level - subject to seasonal variations; • Establishing a gravity outlet to Graytop Drain (Gun River); • And to not adversely impact downstream riparian properties, including those adjacent to Gun River. After receiving approval from both Barry and Allegan county boards of commissioners. Dull and his team went to the Michigan Department of Environment. Great Lakes, and Energy for a pre-application meeting on Aug. 16,2019. They received a subsequent written response from EGLE in late September 2019. There, EGLE established “baseline” assess­ ment requirements including: Wetland assess­ ment, biological (including invasive species) assessment, water chemistry / physical assess­ ment, groundwater assessment, water budget (hydrologic) assessment, hydraulic assess­ ment, and drawdown time periods. There will be up to 12 easements required Barry County Drain Commissioner Jim Dull fields questions about the wor^ on Pine Lake. LRE engineer Dan Fredricks leads the conversation at Tuesday night’s meeting as he provides an update on the relief project to more than400 people. to construct the pro; at. Hie Allegan County Drain Commission coordinated preliminary negotiations witlrfive of those property own­ ers. The assessment district, which is set to be used to fund the project - which is set to not exceed $3 million, was established in 1969. It FINE LAKE PROJECT SCHEDULE Pine Lake area residents have been coping with flooding for over a year, forcing some to run pumps up to 24 hours a day. K llit Jiartvsr—U Me? ■ . LRE engineers gave an updated timeline that lays out when each stage in the project should be complete giving residents an estimate as to when they may begin to see some flooding relief. ; The Pine Lake flooding project meeting Tuesday night drew more than 400 people to the Delton Kelfon school gymna slum. ^9 Middl®15 is made up of 975 acres with 625 properties that are mostly on, or have access to. Pine Lake. Everyone in the assessment district is liable to be assessed for the cost of the project. The cost for each individual homeowner is expect­ ed to be $5,000 over a 10- or 20-year assess­ ment. Dull and Medemar said they have not yet determined the length of the assessment. Fredricks outlined the next steps for the project: First, he said, the preliminary design must be completed. The plan is to build a gravity outlet which will take the water from Pine Lake into the Graytop Drain in Allegan County, which will bring the water into the Gun River. However, before any construction can begin, the necessary easements and permits from EGLE must be obtained. The project timeline’s best-case scenario is for all the easements and pennits necessary for the projects to be moving forward in the hands of Dull and Fredricks by fall of this year. Fredricks said the biggest obstacle in the scope of the project will be to obtain those easements and permits. However, if they can get them by fall, construction should begin in 2021 and will take between three and six months. Fredricks also estimated that, once the water begins flowing through the system, it should take a few- weeks to get back to the legal lake level. They also must ensure the project will have no adverse impact on the natural watercourse. The LRE engineers also arc exploring the possibility of taking water across Doster Road west of Pine Lake. Fredricks said there is a pond across the road Where the water always seems to be 8 or 9 inches lower than Pine Lake. His hope, he said, is to get water there to infiltrate into the ground without having to do any boring through the road. That idea is still in a very preliminary stage, but, if it Work. • LX)uld offer a very cost-efficient option ’ When answering a question fn>m the wdi. ence, Fredncks «ud the system they bui(d. ing will allow tor some flexibility whiu ensuring the water level will not get hiJh enough to flood people out again. Another audience member asked if Dull would consider eminent domain to complete the project. During his time as drain commissioner, he has never had to use eminent domain, he said. Bui this project will get done, one way or another, he added. Dull, Fredricks and Medemar, along with others attending who make up the team work­ ing on the project, received a round of applause from the audience. Prairieville Township Trustee Richard Van iman said he thought the meeting went very wen. Hastings Banner on. Facebook to, keep up to. �Tn« Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 5, 2020 — Payi 3 A Barry ^°Unty prepares for March 10 election SWjniriler Election D».v Any Michigan**L| pate in the presi* n'Un<l ,he comer for . v°<er can partici­ no political ......... they may sec upt0 .. ls their ballots. There will be IWt’.^9n" hal,ols available - both containing in 1 millage and cither the Republican °_r ‘nocmt Presidential Primary inform^0 • rs also can receive a nonpartisan ballot w» y thc 911 rcquesL Citizens may n?g> s°tc up until 8 p.m. on Election Day. » ? ’ 5.nt isn’t registered, or needs to update/11 , dncs*, they may do so by appearing £ P-***1 al their city or township clerk’s off»c und providing proof of Business in Barry Group launches Expo event Business in Barry Group sponsored its first Home and Business Expo last weekend at the Barry Expo Center. Here, Josh, Lisa and McKenzie Link of Delton are among the families checking out vendors’ booths Saturday. The sponsors at the event repre­ sented a range of local business professionals who provide goods and services throughout the area and pledge “to provide outstanding and honest service at a com­ petitive price." This expo, the first by the group, took place Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Organizers said it will return next year. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) NEWS BRIEFS continued from front page in the day of the event. Items received will be distributed to Barry County food pan­ tries.. . The cost per team of five bowlers is $250 and includes three games of bowling, a pair of bowling shoes and hall rental for each participant Advanced sign-up is required, and limited spots remain available for each of the three bowling shifts: 10 a.m.. I p.m. or 4 p.m. More information on the Barry County Hungry Games, these local meal programs, and how to donate is available al facebook, com/barrycounty hungry games, by email BanyCountyHungryGames@gmail.com or calling Diane Haines, 269-948-2044. Refugee family celebrating homecoming A Vietnamese refugee family fled their war-tom land in 1980 and found sponsor­ ship and welcome in Hastings. They were able to start their lives anew in America, and they never forgot the outpour­ ing of love and support they found in Hastings. Now. 40 years later, the Hin Phu family is returning for a celebration Sunday. March 8. The worship service will begin at 9:30 at the church, followed by an II a.m. reception and luncheon in the family’s honor. Everyone in the community is invited to attend. Church hosting immigration workshop, discussion Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Hastings will host a free interactive workshop for the public to discuss immigration and leant how to extend justice and mercy. The workshop will be 2-5 p.m. Sunday. March 8. in lhe parish hall. 315 W. Center Si Haslings. Refreshments will be served. ’ Local elected officials recently discussed whether to allow immigrant children to reside in the county. Taking that discussion a step farther, the church invites load res>dents to the free workshop to consider the B^bltcal basts for welcoming the Granger. B Members of Emmanuel« Social Justice Outre ach ^Xrdimdi’ng'aim- p* “ nrrience or background is required. *yTOs .mn-denominanonal initiative wk created b> Un UWe(J churel, -Church Chr,l>"i‘ Borders” is a ntultFsession. one afbelW^' tractive workshop for indtviduTX and consider what immigration ilstoreflec |xrflIica| nljljeiJ. me“'S will gain a deeper understand^of U5 innn'gR,,K)" h»»WQ md *"*the immigration system works, and will discov­ er current issues and advocacy opportuni­ st r pv More-mlormation can be obtained by call ing the church, 269-945 3014; emailing IcmmanueW 5bcglobal.net; calling Rev. Linnea Stifler. 231-920-9047; or calling Dr. Robert Schirmer, 269-838-6601. Thornapple Players to host auditions The Thornapple Players are planning auditions for their upcoming production of Mel Brooks* musical cult classic "Young Frankenstein.” Auditions will begin at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 10, nt the Dennison Performing Arts Center, 231 S. Broadway. Haslings. Anyone planning to attend is asked to use door on the Center Street side. The auditions are open to everyone from high school seniors and up. No preparation is necessary, but interested individuals should be prepared to sing, read and dance. Those who may have questions or are unable to attend auditions may call music director Doug Acker, 269-945-9249. to set up an alternate time before the scheduled audition dale. The show is set to be directed by Julian Kratochvil. Rehearsals will be 7-9.30 p.m. every Monday. Tuesday and Thursday. Tech rehearsal will be 2-8 p.m. Saturday. May 2. A public dress rehearsal will bepin at 7 p.m. May 6. The show will premiere May 7 at 7 p.m.. followed by 7 p.m. performances May 8 and 9 and a 2 p.m. matinee Sunday, May 10. ‘Women in Space’ is next history topic I wo Michigan women were among the 13 who endured physical and psychological tests given to the original Mercury 7 astro­ nauts in the late 1950s early 1960s The Lovelace Woman in Space Program will be the featured topic during the next Michigan History Hounds program at 7 p.m. Wednesday. March 11, livestreamed at Hastings Public Library, In this History Hounds program. "Out of Ibis World, Michigan Women in Space," Nicok- Zellner, physics and astronomy pro­ fessor at Albion College, will tell about the women who took part in NASA’s early fit­ ness examinations Inclusion in the space program meant undergoing painful and vigorous physical and psychological testing. Among the 13 women who qualified was a 41-year-old Michigan woman who was the mother of eight and the wife of a senator. Zellner, a NASA research astrubiologifit has travelled worldwide to pursue lier pas sion of learning more about die Moon and ils impact on tire Earth. Die program may be viewed in the library’$ community room For more infor­ mation. call the library at 269-945-4263. residency. . . All voters can M the Michigan Voter Information Center a Michigan.go v/Vote to check their registrar100 stalUs» find out how’ to register and be able 1° v°te on March 10, view the candidates and questions that will be on their ballot, get a njap to their polling place and other helpful information. Barry County Clef* * am Palmer said resi­ dents people who are interested in voting via absentee ballot can do so by contacting their local township clerk. ‘They need to go 10 their local clerk, not my office," Palmer said. She said voters can pick up absentee ballots up to the day of the election, "if they’re regis­ tered, they can get them right away. If not registered, need to present photo ID to pick up a ballot." Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Anyone in line when the polls close at 8 p.m. will be allowed to vote. Multiple Democratic nominees for presi­ dent dropped out of the race: billionaire for­ mer hedge-fund executive Tom Steyer. South Bend, Ind., Mayor Pete Buttigieg; billionaire former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg; and Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar. Palmer said those residents who have already voted by absentee ballot for a candidate that has since dropped out can recast their vote by mailing a request to spoil their ballot. Those requests must go to their local township clerk by 2 p.m. Saturday. March 7. after which they will be sent a new ballot. Voters also can go into their township office where they can request to have their ballot spoiled in person up to 4 pan. on Monday. March 9, and re-cast their vote then. Palmer said there is no remedy for the situ­ ation on Election Day. after both deadlines have past. Voters will be asked ip present photo ID at the polls,’ such as a Michigan driver’s'license or identification card. Anyone who does not have an acceptable form of photo ID or failed to bring it wirh them can still vote. If the voter does not have a photo ID, the voter may sign a brief affidavit attesting to their identity. Their ballots will be included with all others and counted on Election Day. If a voter wishes to take a photo of their marked or unmarked ballot in the voting booth, they may do so, but images of a voted ballot may not be shared within 100 feet of a polling place. Any other type of photography within the area where people are voting is prohibited. Selfies are only allowed outside the polling place. Marriage licenses Taclor Renea Hughes, Bellevue and Wyatt Wesley Benton, Hastings Nasser Bader Ali. Farmington and Makenzi Elizabeth Leinhart. Nashville Matthew Walter D°uglas Hall, Middleville and Brianna Renee Shahin, Middleville H. Chadwick M<*s. Middleville and Toni Lynn Watts. Middleville Stephan Andrew Gorz, White Cloud and Lisa Elaine Granthan1’ Middleville Katie Nichole Hames, Wayland and Nicholas Alan craflWU Wayland GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! The following locations are the polling places where Barry County voters may cast their ballots. However, voters must cast their ballot in the township they reside. Assyria Township - Precinct I - 8094 Tasker Road, Bellevue 49021 Baltimore Township - Precinct 1 - 3100 East Dowling Road. Hastings 49058 Barry Township - Precinct 1-155 E. Orchard St. Delton 49046 Carlton Township - Precinct I - 85 Welcome Road, Hastings 49058 Castleton Township - Precinct I -915 Recd Street, PO Box 679, Nashville 49073 Hastings Charter TWP. - Precinct 1 - 885 River Road, Hastings 49058 Hope Township - Precinct I - 5463 S. M-43 Hwy.. Hastings 49058 Irving Township - Precinct I - 3425 Wing Road, Hastings 49058 Johnstown Township - Precinct 1 - 13641 S.M-37, Battle Creek 49017 Maple Grove Township - Precinct 1-7-21 Durkee Street. Nashville 49073 Orangeville Township - Precinct 1 - 7350 Lindsey Rd.. Plainwell 49080 Prairieville Township - Precinct 1 - 1015.S'. Norris Road.. Delton 49046 . • Rutland Township - Precinct 2 - 2461 Heath Road, Hastings 49058 Thomapple Township - Precinct 1-128 High Street. Middleville 49333 Thomapple ’Township - Precinct 2 - 200 E. Main Street. Middleville 49333 ’ • Thomapple Township - Precinct 3 - 100 East Main Street, Middleville 49333 Woodland Township - Precinct 1 - 156 S‘ Main P.O. Box 98, Woodland 48897 ; Yankee Springs Township - Precinct I 4 284 N. Briggs Road, Middleville 49333 ; Yankee Springs Township - Precinct 2 • 1425 S. Payne Lake Road, Middleville 49333 City of Hastings, Ward I, 2, 3. & 4 I Precinct 1 - Hastings Baptist Church, 309 East Woodlawn, Hastings 49058 ; Voters will see 911 issue on ballots Tuesday A renewal for the Barry County 911 Dispatch will Ik on the ballot March 10. About 95 percent of the dispatch’s operational funding comes from the millage. The remain­ der comes from the state, which collects a fee on telephone bills. The renewal language on the ballot reads: "Shall the previously voted increase in the limitation on general ad valorem taxes within Barry County, as established by Article IX, Section 6 of the Michigan Constitution, be renewed and levied at a total of up to 0.9672 mill ($.9672 for each S1,000 of taxable value) upon all taxable real and personal property within Barry County for a period of five (5) years, 2020 through 2024, both inclusive, sub­ ject to reductions as provided by law? "The purpose of this levy is to fund the capital, equipment and operational needs of the Barry County Central Dispatch 1 Center. "If approved, it is estimated that the', levy of 0.9672 mill will provide revenue’ of $2,171,206 of which $2,134,296 will be disbursed by Barry’ County to the Barry County Central Dispatch Authority ' and $36,910 will be disbursed to the’ Hastings DDA and LFDA and Village of Middleville DDA. The estimated $36,910 is levied in a predefined area of the City ' of Hastings and Village of Middleville,-, only. "It is estimated that a property in Barry County with a taxable value of $50,000 will be assessed $48.36 in the first calen­ dar year of the levy." Barry County Central Bfeoaafch opens its doors : Nearly 100 people visited Barry County Central Dispatch during an open house Tuesday evening, Director Stephanie Lehman estimated. . • ‘ We had people in the dispatch room on tours for over two hours straight, Lehman said. Employees at the dispatch gave visitors tours, demonstrations, and answered ques­ tions about the upcoming millage renewal and dispatch outreach to local schools. Dispatch Supervisor Kristina Nevins, right, shows Lily and Ryan Klein how thpy respond to 911 calls. (Photo by Taylor Owens) £*; & THORnHPPLC: P I II Y I II S ■ Thornapple Players will hold open auditions (high school seniors and up? on March 10,2020 beginning at 7PM in the Dennison Performing Arts Center - 231 South Broadway (Use door on the Center Street side.) ixiiTT rmriPAi itous If you are unable to attend the oWrrsE ahd active ehseMbu WE An ALSO LOOKtW audition or have questions, FCK 'STROW* PAMCERS please call Norma Jean at 269-945-2332 TAFPAHCtW IS A PLUS. or Doug at 269 945 9249 to set up an alternate time BEFORE the scheduled audition date. Rehearsal dates and times 7-9:30PM (longer as show time approaches) Rehearsals Every Monday. Tuesday and Thursday Tech Rehearsal is Saturday, May 2 from 2-8PM. May 6 is open to the public dress rehearsal Curtain at 7PM Show Dates May 7,8,9 Curtain at 7PM May 10, Sunday matinee 2PM. „ ,__ _ Director-Julian Kratochvil *— Music Director-Doug Acker barrv* Producer-Norma Jean Acker.- �Page 4 - Thursday, March 5, 2020 - The Hastings Banner Did you Museums can be part of the future „„ It is a museum that preserves the Steinway + Motown = Fan-tastic Eartene and Larry Baum attend the 13^ annual Mary Youngs Benefit Concert at the Hastings Performing Arts Center Saturday. The couple, along with hundreds of other music fans in the audience, were entertained by lively renditions of Motown and rock favorites with a ’Made in Michigan" theme. And that $100,000 black satin Steinway piano the Baums donated last year not only graced the stage - it got quite a workout during the show. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) Do you remember? Another Fechner plays Banner Aug.26, 1954 Plays summer concerts - Guest musi­ cian from Germany Paul Fechner is performing with the Hastings City Band. A member of the Kassel Symphony Orchestra, he’s joined the local musical group while visiting his son here. [Wolfram Fechner, whose drum kit was restored and debuted at Saturday’s Mary Youngs Concert, was featured in this segment in the Feb. 27 Banner. To read more about the elder Fechner, see page 8 Have you met? Catherine Getty plays many roles, and the desire that fuels her passion to help the vil­ lage she loves runs as deep as her family roots there. Catherine Janet Geliy. 50, was bom May 17.1969, in Hastings. She is the third of four children bom to the late Bill Getty, a lifelong Middleville resident, and Janet (Tapey) Clancey of Hastings. Her family lived on West Main Street in the Cuneth House across from McFall Elementary School.They raised horses there, and Catherine said she would “take horses to school for ‘show-and-tell*.’’ When Bill and Janet divorced in 1976. the two older siblings wanted to remain in Middleville, so they stayed there with their dad. The two younger children moved with their mom to Northville. Catherine graduated from Northville High School in 1987 and Michigan Stale University in 1991. receiving a degree in natural resources management and communications. She spent the follow­ ing summer in Florida on her mom’s boat trying to decide if she wanted to join the Peace Corps or lake a position working al the Sanibel Island Captiva Conservation Foundation. Working on Sanibel with sea turtles won. Steve Beyer was doing master’s research in thc same area on a different breed of turtle when their paths crossed. They moved to Elkins. W.V.. in 1995 where they were mar­ ried and thc first two of their three boys. Eli. now 23, and Sam, 22. were born. Their youngest. Daniel. 16, was bom in Hastings. While in West Virginia, they both working for the West Virginia DNR. I jjtcr. for about a year and a half, they lived in the mountains of West Virginia in a cabin, with an outhouse, and two small children - loving every minute of it. But in December o! 1998, Steve was offered a job with the Michigan DNR as a biologist for the Middleville Stale Game Area, an opportunity they could not pats up. So. they left West Virginia, and Catherine found herself back in her hometown. Steve and Catherine although still good friends to this day. did not remain married After three years, Steve’s job was relocated to lumsing. Catherine stayed at home with her kids for a while and helped her dad with his real Catherine Getty estate company before his death. She was invited to be a part of the down­ town development board, responsible for reviving the downtown corridor of Middleville. It was her first role in the local government, and she found it appealing. The more she involved herself in local projects, and the more she saw projects completed, the greater her desire to do more. She was offered more opportunities, and each time she accepted. She now wears many bats at the village hail. When she needs to shift gears, she takes off one hat and dons another. She now serves on thc village planning com mission as well as working in zoning. She also is program director for Thomapple Area Parks and Recreation Commission, which oversees baseball, softball, and flag football programs, as well as adult volleyball. ”1 count myself extremely lucky to have been surrounded by vety positive people." she said. For her Jove of family and heritage and her commitment to her community, Catherine Getty is this week’s Banner Bright Light. If I could go anywhere: Antigua, Guatemala. They are the most amazing pto* pie living in such extreme poverty w ith such amazing joy. Favorite book: The Bible. It wasn’t until my dad died that 1 Ik-gan having faith in God. Favorite cartoon character: Winnie the Pooh. 1 suppose because I have always loved that book from college. The Tao of Pooh.’ If I could change anything: Reverse cli­ mate change. because I think it’s going to have a profound impact on thc world. Also. 1 would keep my kids small and live with me forever. My heroes: My ja(j :ind my grandma. 1 heir memories keep me going. Greatest invention: A hot shower. Something most people don’t know about me: Honestly. I keep thinking back to that outhouse in West Virginia (and I know I am going to get picked on for this), but 1 really enjoyed those walks to the outhouse. 1 know it sounds strange. But when you are forced several times a day to take that wind­ ing walk ... I knew the face of the moon. I knew where the stars Were- Itwas grounding. luvorite childhood memory: Riding horses with my dad. My grandfather sur­ prised us with a pony Oll Thanksgiving Day. We had that pony my CI1tirv childhood, from the time I was 3 until 1 was in college. My childhood would nut |rl\e been the same without Tony the pony । ‘^11 have the saddle. When 1 miss him. | ,,OnUl alu| smell it. l uvorite TV proj>nHn: I typically don’t promote media, but | recently discov­ ered Netflix and the -Outlander’ series. During the winter, m,.. j(’s cold outside. I can binge-watch ’Outlander’ for hours. favorite !iisiorjv ‘ rio(|: The late 18(M)> early 1900s lnM lh.: simplicity of the time period. f 1(K. complications of today. Ik'M mhiee; Th(. |Jcl, rule. Il «as dulled into me by IJn. .. ; ••Do unto others you would haveS) unto yon” It's such simple advice Jt we would follow H. we wouldn’t hax' ‘ ly the trouble that we have now. My enduring memory as a former staff member al thc Gilmore Car Museum is thc sight of a long-haired kid walking up the tree-lined entry drive, curious about all the excitement generated by high school .students stepping off a school bus outside one of the facility’s outbuildings. His scruffy jeans and tattered shirt indicated this guy wasn’t much into discipline. In tact, the reason he was walking home from school, we learned later, was because he’d been kicked off the bus. That didn’t matter back in the fall of 2009 when we launched Gilmore Garage Works, an after-school enrichment program for any high schooler interested in cars and something to do because they weren’t offered a spot on an athletic team or couldn't beat out the lucky ones who held part-time jobs. We accepted everybody. And today, a decade into the program, it’s my belief that thc Gilmore Garage Works endeavor is the greatest contribution the Gilmore Car Museum makes to Barry' County. Don t get me wrong — before choosing to leave the museum in 2011 to become an editor at J-Ad Graphics Inc.. I felt pride every day in the museum’s esteemed place in automotive history, its collection of nearly *100 vintage automobiles, and the thousands of visitors who stopped by every year to see preserved history come to life. As part of the small group that conceived the idea of using cars and history as a community asset, though, I knew the Gilmore Garage Works program would complement the museum’s admirable preservation of the past by using its assets to prepare young people for the future. I was pleased to read in last week’s Banner about plans unveiled at the county planning commission meeting for a new. $5 million muscle car exhibition building and an almost-double size expansion of thc 14.000-square-foot Classic Car Club of .America building. The intentions are another confirmation of what the Gilmore Car Museum docs best: Sell memories. Who doesn’t have a special car in their memory banks? Don’t we all have a favorite car era? I revel in the stories of .August and Frederick Ducscnberg who. while they were developing one of America’s most famous luxury passenger cars, were building racing engines and cars that set speed records on Daytona Beach, won thc French Grand Prix in 1921 and then look the Indianapolis 500 checkered flag four times in six years from I922tol927. I remember the way Pulitzer Prize­ winning author Rick Bragg’s eyes lit up when I reminded him during his visit to Kalamazoo a few years ago of the blackand-pearl 1949 Mercury he wrote about in The Prince of Frogtown. "Wasn’t that thc greatest car ever?’’ he gushed when I told him we had a near-replica in the Gilmore Car Museum collection. Nostalgia may not be a growth business, however. I fear for the future of all museums given their static nature. History' docs not change, though 1 concede that there are always new, innovative and entertaining ways to tell it. But younger generations don’t carry' the same level of nostalgia we feel, and it’s often painfully obvious that they certainly don’t have a grasp on history. I’m afraid that may be especially true of automobiles. Millennials seem less and less interested in cars, and that trend continues to diminish with the succeeding Gen-X, Y, and Z generations. Many of today’s 16-y earolds don’t even bother to get their driver’s licenses on their birthday s and they certainly can’t afford - even if they were interested - to get into the expensive vintage car hobby. That’s the beauty of the Gilmore Garage Works program and thc museum’s commitment to it. By teaching students under the guidance of adult mentors to preserve and restore valued automobiles, the museum is not only building appreciation for the craftsmanship of early car designers and builders, it’s also equipping young people with skills in welding, metal fabrication and mechanical repair that may qualify them for productive and satisfying What do you Ne^.oom, ........ : !: ,j ‘ //a,,, to tell n.-. io 1/-U 49O.5X; Garage x-’a.^: working e«recr..,nOnV‘nfXer student has UrSh^Omu,W,‘he famed Automotive advanced .»inoloey Program at Restoration Technology t McPherson College in Kansas th.it school where comedian Jay . _ automobile and motorcyc e ,^nu,ri, established the Fred S. Ducsenleg Scholarship and from where he hired a McPherson graduate to oversee his o er 100-piece collection housed in a garage in Los Angeles. Every' Gilmore Garage Works graduate will learn thc pride of working witi t. e hands, though. That, to me. is an added life dimension every one of us should have. I wish I had learned how to work with my hands. My father was a plastering craftsman, and I now lovingly remember how we would enter a building and I w'ould watch his eyes carefully study its construction. Today, the only work I do with my hands is in front of this computer keyboard. Ed Domke. the career and technical education teacher at Hastings High School, illustrated that point for me one spring day when he visited thc museum with a class equipped to do some spring cleanup on the museum grounds. I challenged Ed on CTE’s place in a high school curriculum, generally, and on the remote possibility, specifically, that any of his students on the grounds that day would go on to study turf management. “Probably not.’’ Domke conceded, "but what they will have will be an appreciation for and an ability to have a garden that they may enjoy working in when they leave their job as an adult at the end of the day.” Domke could have been referring to Matthew Crawford who said in his 2009 book, Shop Class as Soulcraft: An Inquiry into the Value of Work, "Without the opportunity to learn through the hands, the world remains abstract and distant, and thc passions for learning will not be engaged.” Working - learning - with our hands becomes a pleasant escape from the mundane, it’s a pursuit into curiosity, creativity and a respite from the obligations of daily work life. It works both ways, of course. I believe that those whose careers and adult jobs involve working with the hands should find their needed and vital escapes in thc arts, in literature, in music. Every high school shop class student should be required to take an introductory culture course. And let’s get past this bias that the skilled trades are a “fallback” career decision. Academically-gifted students also should be required to take a high school shop class before they head off to college, to discover thc satisfaction in working at some craft with their hands, finding a pursuit that may someday provide a needed and enjoyable escape from their real world. In neither case do students exploring something out of their realm or comfort zone have to be good - they just need the experience of developing another part of their brain and gaining knowledge of another important area of life. We need to light a fire of passion for something outside their main concentrations, for something that, throughout their adult life, will provide pleasure and satisfaction while renewin’’ their commitment to the work in which they are engaged as a career. Congratulations to the Gilmore Car Museum for the latest demonstration of its passion to bring the story of the automobile to America through the new muscle car exhibmon and expansion of its classic car asse? hnTr""-’ rsi°n for i,s 8reatest asset - budding thc skills, careers and lifetime sattsfactions in the lives of our WsT T ’n°' ‘Uminished. no r'2S for 'here can be no price established. And it’s why the B±°Co^USeUm Wi" be one cd oarry c ounty s most valued assets. Doug Vandcrl.aan. Guest Columnist think? 1 lere’s your chance to take patt in an interaetiv. ... lion posed each week by accessing our.. .1. 1,,llbllc opinion ixdl v.« . be ..Undated and reported along with 3 njw Resl^il! Last week: h h-ceA, i/lc a person who makes fJle (( ’’ lh: / Jiinc. Do you know wintone wi‘U‘! ' ..i I be featured h™;:................. '"f'f loridp.r - “ v; I he practice of dcclaw'mg cats is banned in some Mates; othets are nou considering laws to make it illepul Should Michigan outlaw it? ’ Yes |(XH ing "eek. -------- For this wee^ - ----------- lho0eXOUt^V0rPO,h0les? Sho^ recrea«X ™ ra'Sed ,rom "so °f delusively Michigan? or fo?1Uana be a,,ocated road rePair in Yes ___ No �■ ■■ The Har.W» Banner — Tnureday March 5.2020 — Paqe 5 ■ Pub!!Shear'ng for Kendall PlaCe draws questions, requests Savanah Kacchcle Contributing Write, Thrve public hearings, all regaling final I t.e plan reviews for projx-ny additions and lavements, wen; conducted during the I UxOings (. its 1 lannmg Commission’s meet Monday. ! Drawing lhe most discussion was Kendall I HKe.the45-unit housing project proposed as I| Jcred f planned unit development on property borK' Park and Court streets Kevin | , I Moen? attended I developer » ate the meeting to represent Heyboer, owner of DUE | Numbing and Mechanical in Hudsonville* | yfoore referred to the project as one of their | ^t attempts to address the need for housinc “ fhat s one of the first things that was said I i0 us when we came into town about a year ; jnJ a half ago, and I don't think that’s (banged, and I think this is just our first step in addressing sonic of those needs." he said Moore went over some highlights about structure with the planning commission, including the benefit of having one of the highest walking scores in lhe Hastings "Within three to five blocks in any direc­ tion. lhe residents of Kendall Place will be able to reach virtually every service the city ; has to offer.’’ he said. After Moore presented information on lhe ^reject, city consultant Rebecca Harvey com­ mented on the density, set-backs and parking aspects of lhe final site plan. "Tliis particular project does not meet your current PUD standards with respect to . those three design elements," she told com­ missioners. “However, because it is a PUD, you have an overarching provision that allows you to modify any of your standards where you feel the design is appropriate to lhe site." Along w iih Harvey, resident Dennis James . yt’jS th(« k cem^r*1^ ”!em^>cr Tom Maurer shared conregarding parking. finn ’^quested information that con­ ns average parking use data from thc K and y Management Company, the national managtmcm company that oversees the property. Moore said they decided to go with a 1:1 ratio ,or parking spaces per unit. We reached out to both the national man­ agement company and just to make sure that they were correct, we reached out to the Dwelling Place, which is one of the largest developers of this state, and the 1:1 site ratio is what they experience in their develop­ ments,” Moore said. , "Let me just ask a hypothetical question. Say you need one and a half [parking spaces] per unit. You’re asking for our direction and our approval tonight, and there’s no real back­ up plan," Maurer said. "So, what happens if you don’t have enough parking for the resi­ dents there?" “I don’t know how to answer that question as to w hat lhe crystal ball is going to look like. I will say that the management of the units would be in the position to say ‘We have an issue’, so that they would go about solving that issue," Moore said. Maurer asked what would be stated in lhe lease regarding parking availability. Moore said residents would be entitled to one space per unit, which would be listed in the lease. "I'm at least comfortable with you saying it’s written into the lease because now that puts ownership back on you guys. You have to resolve that if there is a problem; it’s not a city problem," Maurer said. Moore said he couldn't speculate on why it would be a city problem. "We tried very, very hard to balance thc profitability of the project." Moore said. Write Us A Letter;____________ The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: •All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire’" letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. comfor Piding «e’ve made the X you exceptions when people have data that seems to ( H P J us with sai(1 'han what our Schinner, a retired Dr Rob"' ^th director with the Barn-I-J'on Di/* h,ll.? ,h Department, exp “s«d concent ft* issues regarding *"e“fore<hecommission with two Liming public Schinner said "The first is lhc b no tobacco and marijuana. and the second „ lhc burning of f°S He^sked the pb-"* commission and developers to const**P^’ons for public health by making KcnJaH Place a smoke-free housing development Me also suggested using renewable energy sources in place of fossil fuels. . , "It’s not allowed ,n me building, but I don’t think wc arc aHoweci to restrict it on the entire site." Kara Hiunson-Gates. a lax credit consultant for the Kendau Place project, said regarding smoking. "We look into that." Agreeing with the suggestion of using renewable energy' sources was resident Linnea Sutler, priest at Emmanuel Episcopal Church. “1 want to make the request that renewable energy be considered in not just this building, but other buildings that are in the works for providing greater housing in lhe community.” Stifler said. Harrison-Gates explained that although renewable energy is cost-prohibitive, it is .still being considered. Shannon Nagy, senior warden at the Emmanuel Episcopal Church, commented on the design of the building. “We have a lol of historic buildings down­ town, and to me it doesn't quite fit." she said. “I would love to hear more about the materi­ als.” "We sec this as a gateway project into the downtown area." Moore said. "Io try to make it something that honors the past by incorpo­ rating thc brick. Hut also this is the first new building in quite some time so instead of it being just another brick building like every other brick building in town, it was requested of us to look outside that and bring a touch of modem into thc next era o! what Hastings is going to lx* like.” The final site plan was approved, noting the three findings that Harvey referred, and will be sent on to the city council. “Some [of the public comments| are per­ taining to this property in particular, others are a much bigger issue," Hatfield said. And if nothing else, you have reminded us that as we are looking at our building codes and the master plan perhaps should necessitate further work on our part how we will address those issues.” In other business, the planning commis­ sion: -Reviewed questions raised by Harvey, regarding pedestrian elements, outdoor light­ ing and landscaping in the site plan oi the properties at400 W. Stale St. and 410 W. Stale St. Eric Butler, of EWB Properties LLC of Grand Rapids, and Jim Ramie, the architect representing Buller, both attended the public hearing. Ramie went through and addressed U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616)451-8383. U.S, Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510 ohone (202) 224-4822. Garv Peters Democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510­ 2202 nlrone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room 720, 110 Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 233^President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Banner Dcuotcd to lhe Interests of Barry County since 1856 PM.sh«iD,. Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division o! J-Ad Graphics Inc. N M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945 5192 Savanah Kaechcle Contributing Writer Rezoning and final site plan review of the Mcadowstone Manufactured Home Community was one of three public hearings conducted at thc Hastings Planning Commission meeting Monday. Mcadowstone is on Lavender Drive near Star Elementary ScIkxjI. Robert Lamer, of Exxel Engineering in Grand Rapids, attended the meeting to answer questions about the final site plan. "I designed this project long, long ago in 1999 or so, when the original planned unit development and mobile home park was put together." Lamer said. "This was actually something that was looked at, probably 15 years ago, as a possibility of how- to use this land.” After reviewing the site plan, city consul­ tant Rebecca Harvey made a suggestion to the planning commission. "I only suggest your conversation about two of those that are in your PUD ordinance, and that is the insulation of pedestrian ways from vehicular streets.'’ she said, "and then the preservation of the natural features to pro­ vide buffering in character with lhe areas." Mayor David Tossava commented on the preservation of the natural features. "They arc talking about leaving as much vegetation there as possible, but I have a little bit of concern," Tossava said. "There’s a lot of scrubby stuff out there, and I’d like to see that taken out and maybe put some better-looking trees in there.” “We’ll work with you to do what we need to do there," Lamer replied. Commissioner Chelsey Foster added to the mayor’s comment on buffering. Frederic Jacobs Puclisher U CEO Hank Schuuring CFO . ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • accepted McnO-ty though Friday 8.30 J n» :o 5 00 p m Scott Ommen Ty Greenfield Mike Gilmore Colleen Egleston Jennie Yonker To the editor: I have this friend who has really been act­ ing very strange. 1 think he was indoctrinated by a group of radicals who have been trying for over three years to undo what the majority has put in place. He even writes missives about what the majority put in place. In fact, many of thc claims in his missives unfortunately mirror the claims made by a large group of influencers. Phis group has forgotten to follow the example of the major­ ity of the real professional influencers who trained and preceded them. I understand there is no short-term fix to solve this problem. They say. in five more years, his angst will go away and he will be able to sit batk and cniov the prosperity wc all w ill enjoy. John Llewellyn, Hastings •NEWSROOMRebecca Pierce (Editor) Kalhy Maurer Brett Bremer (Sports E • G'eg Chandler Taylor Owens ' 7 POSTMASTER Send nddv/, ciungmo PO Bo* 163 Hnliips, W 490560168 Second CI.K& Po;i.«yi Pau at Ha-.: ngt, Ml 4905a Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 h'st.ngs Banner Area Locations to purchase the Hastings BanneHJ HPtlinai) SpcJuw (M 43 North) •Superette MjaicvilV Marita Greg s Get h-N-Go I & ”, Clowrdaket ’ Bro*xn > Ctdai Cree'n Gf0oj\ ' Hastings Johnny Rwds The DockStore Marathon Doster Country Store Delton: \v; p, ,:Ux... N Praiikvi'k? F^r Stop Phiipsboto^W.SuteSt) Qrgnacvllh - ■■-4... 0i<»9K*F«SM> CSt. •.. u-h .> Banfield; :<> IteiqsPhJm^y ' FjtniLRw uv.. ? Mega Bev Aqchci/l* i r hi:• Johnny's . The General St#* Walgreens Freeport; H’opdland: Wdfiieoiiie; One Stop Shop »W’66) Penn-Noek Gift Shop Subscription Rates: $45 p<»r year in Barry County $50 per year In adjoining counties $55 per year elsewhere ‘ , ' ’ • "I guess 1 would pause and think of some kind of tree barrier, at least," Foster said? "And my thought, at least for lhe residents’ there, with being right next to an auto repair; shop, they have air tools running all day. I' think a little bit of a noise buffer might be a good idea in your developments interest, too.” Resident Wayne Nicholson asked about a buffer during public comment. "Arc they going to build a fence or any­ thing to keep a barrier there?" he asked. "Because wc already have traffic going through there from the kids and sluff from lhe trailer park.’’ "Thc intent was probably not to, to try and keep it natural." I^imersaid. "I don't want people intruding and coming back into my property and stealing stuff which they already do from the trailer park," Nicholson said. Chairman Dave Hatfield suggested the two have a discussion regarding the issue. “I think if you can have a discussion about sharing the cost of doing some fencing, that would address their security concerns,” he said. Thc final site plan, with the condition to look at some of thc issues brought up. was approved. The rezoning of a parcel in lhe mobile home park form D-2 to PUD also was approved, with Foster abstaining due to a‘ business relationship with a neighboring property owner. How about this Mend? Fam^ Fare nf>ws&i-adgraphics.com • Advertising. ods&i-adgraplvcs com No*s and press te.ease^ j______________________________________________T . u । J • * Site plan conditionally approved : for Meadowstone housing project ^Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican. 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; U.S. mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. the questions by proposing a sidewalk addi­ tion, giving information on the down-shielded, light fixtures, and offering extra signage and paint striping to help guide traffic in regard to the landscape issue. Hatfield asked if the use of the new stoic-ture has been determined. "No, it's professional office at this point. I think he’s in the process of looking for ten­ ants, but we don’t have anyone identified at this point." Ramie said. "We are really heavily going towards a physician or a doctor’s office of some sort,”* Butler added. The site plan was approved, with specific reference to the issues raised by Harvey. . -Received an update on the master plan from Harvey, who reported that the business' growth strategy section is complete. leaving the preliminary plan to be completed in April.’ -Approved a request from Todd Porritt regarding a one-year extension on a site-plan approval for properly at 133 E. State S. The extension will allow Porritt to open his busi­ ness. which he estimates will happen by thc Barry-Roubaix bicycle race in April. -Approved and referred the 2020 capital improvement plan to the city council. Thc plan included the prioritization of structures and improvements on which thc commission will be taking action. "These are the projects that are on there right now." City Manager Jerry Czarnecki said. "The biggest one being thc water and wastewater, with our right around 9.5-million-dollar upgrade that's going to be happen­ ing. so we will be seeing some work on that starting here in the spring." The next planning commission meeting is scheduled for Monday. April 6. in the council chambers at the city hall. Lake Odessa: .S'.- »<•'‘•Lyv.s l.^-OVnt PQKJtOOl a^sUiH’taSiow “ ........ ' Shelbycille: , �Theater wants studios to continue Worship Together sending movies, amid banKTUP csthat it be t>u1'ho^abIc7ra<Je GhegCb»“^r The owner of .^L’dn^4 movie ^tcr .at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616-690­ 8609. FREEPORT BAPTIST CHURCH 380 County Line Rd.. Freeport. MI 49325. (269) 760-1928. Pastor Ron. A traditional style of worship, no gimmicks, and friendly people welcome you to worship at "an old country church." Sunday School 9: 45 am. Sunday Worship H o.m. Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study and Prayer 7p.m. Ghr us the pleasure of meeting you.' GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville, MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe, (517) 852­ 1783. Sunday service 10am. Fellowship lime before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. HASTINGS HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 2920 S. M-37 Hwy. (M-37 at M-79) Pastor Kim Metzcr. Phone 269-945-4995. hastingshopeumc.org hastingshopeumc&gmail. com. We welcome YOU to join us on Sunday Mornings at 10:30 for worship! Find Us On Facebook! @ hastingshopeumc. PLEAS ANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.nx; Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. MCCALLUM UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH 5505 Otis Lake Rd.. Delton, MI 49046. Phone: 269-623­ 8226. New pastor - Jerald Jones. Sunday Service: 10: 31-11:46; Coffee Connection. Nursery, Children's ministry. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIA INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). Thc Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-795­ 2370 and the rectory number is 269-948-9327. Our church website is www.samchurch. org. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Likes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use lhe 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1674 S. State Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 Phone 269-945­ 2285. Sunday morning service time: 10 am. with nursery and preschool available. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E Stale Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 am. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 765, (comer of Milo Rd. &S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11:30am, Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer lime 6:30 to 7:30 pm. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville, Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.’’ For information call 616-731-5194. GREEN STREET UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green St., Hastings, MI 49058. Rev. Bryce Feighner Office Phone: 269­ 945.9574. Email: office, greenstreetumeft gmail.com. Sunday, Schedule - The Praise 9:30 am. ; The Word 10 a.m.; The Table 10:30 a.m. Nursery Care is available through age 4; PreK-8th grade Sunday School 10 am.; Sunday School for Adults at 11 a.m. Upright Revolt Youth Ministry (6th-12th grades) 5:30-7:30 p.m. FREE Community Meal every Tbesday at 5 p.m. Refer to Facebook for weather conditions. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday. Family Night 6:30-8 p.m., AWANA (Children Kindergarten-5th Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948­ 8004 for information on M1TF (Mothers in Training Together), Sports Ministries, Quilting, Ladies Bible Study. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel­ chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. Wednesday Q|a,J" y ,hol "several studios have threatened",‘"g top sending movies to Goodrich because „flhe debts the chain owes. Goodrich, whicthls ’he »“'in8s 4 FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF HASTINGS Sharing Jesus with our community & the world! 405 N. M-37 Hwy.. Haslings. MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. www.firstchuB.hha!> lings. ory, 9 a.m. Classes and Gatherings for All ages; 9:45 a.m. Worship (Children's Worship Offered); 10:45 a.m. Coffee Fellowship; 11:15 am. Coffee Talk with Pastor Dan. Follow us on Facebook. SANCTIONS, continued from page 1 WOODLAND UNITED MET HODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, MI 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Kathy Smith. Sunday Worship 9:15 am HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of Who jesus Is To The World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Huy. P.O. Box 8, Hastings. Telephone 269­ 945-9121. Email hastfmc® gmail.com. Website: www.haslingsfrcemdhodist.conr Pastor Brian Teed, Student Ministries Director, Emma Miller, Wor­ ship Director, Martha Stoeizel. Sundays: Nursery and tod­ dler (birth through age 3) care provided. SUNDAY MORN­ ING FAMILY HOUR WEL­ COMES ALL AGES AND STAGES OF LIFE AT 950 a<m. Deep Blue, Loving God, Loving Neighbor. Preschool age 3-5th Grade. Live: 6th-12th Grade. Adult Standard and Adult Elective classes. Coffee Talk: Fellowship Hall. Cookies at 10:05 am. Worship Service: 10:30 am. & Children’s Church age 4-4th grade dis­ missed during service. Youth Group at 6 p.m. 2nd 'Ricsday: Young Women's Small Group, 6 p.m. Wednesday: Women’s Bible Study 6:30-7:30 p.m. KID'S CLUB: Feb. 5th-March 18th. 6:30-7:45 p.m. Thurs­ day: Adult Bible Study 10 am. For more information please contact die church or follow us on face book. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God’s Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! March 8 - Worship services al 8 am. and 10:45 am. Nursery available both services. Noisy Offering. March 9 - Outreach 4:30 p.m. March 10 - Brothers of Grace 7 p.m. March 11 - Lenten Luncheon noon, Green SL United Methodist; Lenten Meal 6 p.m.; Lenten Service 7 p.m. Pastor Ken Scheck 11. pastorken(£grace-hastings. org. Ijocation: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945-9414 or 945-2645, fax 269-945-2698. www.grace-hastings.org. Facebook: Grace Lutheran Church-ELCA Hastings, Ml. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Haslings. MI 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: A. pvfnh VA MV 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 is asking a fcder-,1 • force m0VI? sru" dios to continuu?J Hing f|lms as tricS 10 stay in business C° Goodrich QUali .waters filed documents with U.S. Bank±cv%rtin Grand Ral!!ds distributors and a network of other vendors and service providers,” the filing said. “Any disruption in thc debtor’s access to newly-re­ leased movie titles and the provision of criti­ cal goods and services to the debtor would have a far-reaching and adverse economic and operational impact on their business.” Goodrich would pay up to $300,000 to so-called “critical vendors” that include movie distributors, to go toward paying debts incurred prior to the bankruptcy filing. “The debtor intends to pay lhe critical ven­ dor claims only to the extent necessary to preserve the business as a going concern,” the filing read. “To that end, in return for paying any critical vendors claim, the debtor propos- HhASTINGS 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 since 1998, fi|C(1 ™ chapter 11 bankruptcy Feb. 25. Ior "The debtor's b„dn,ss relies on continuing access to and relationships with various movie vendor post-petitio".*1' and services.^ critiCal for «’<-• of ntovie trtJes. goo* aistributors Goodrich owes arc: Exclw>nge. $303,523 Universal Film -70. Sony Releasing. ( ^)g Warner Brothe«^ gI ^3 Walt Disney Stu*. 17lb largest theater Goodrich is the nat lhcalers in five chain, with 30 higan. and 1.150 total states, including MS cited liabilities at employ^- r^ Xnd $50 million in * between filing. rni,,‘ biocu^ativec^m^^"^ environmental quality analyst Laura Matthews told the Banner Tuesday, Administrative consenl orders arc tools thc state can use to resolve violations, she said. “They are fairly common." The Water Resources Division issued 53 of these orclcrs last year. Matthews said. The order ensures a for lhc sUtc follow up and get the permitee back on track,” she said. “We arc able to set up a schedule that assists the permittee 10 ^ct *n compliance.” The problems date back to 2016 when effluent limit violations f°r phosphorus were documented from November 2016 through January 2017 and fecal coliform was reported in December 2016. An ammonia nitrogen violation in September 2016 was not reported, according to the order. An April 5, 2017, inspection by EGLE staff noted a failure on the part of the city to require follow-up sampling, then, Jan. 31, 2018, a state inspection identified inadequate head works, poor grit and rag removal and several individual units requiring or undergoing repair. More effluent limit violations occurred between May and October 2017. “Notifications from the city attributed these effluent exceedances to operator error and inadequate headworks resulting in equipment malfunctions," the state order notes. “Subsequent to the Jan. 31, 2018, inspection, ... EGLE staff were notified by lhe city that on Feb. 16,2018, approximately 2,000 gallons of raw and partially treatment sewage was discharged to an adjacent street, a gravel lot, and an area adjacent to a dog park. The discharge of >w or partially treated sewage directly or jidirectly to waters of the state is a violation r.. “The discharge of raw or partially treated sewage was directly related to the existing infrastructure deficiencies.” More violations were documented March 26,2019. Phosphorus, ammonia nitrogen, and mercury effluents exceeded limits set by the state permit. In addition, the city failed to submit reports, including discharge monitoring reports. These violations are a serious matter, Matthews said, but state officials noted that city officials responded in a positive way that was encouraging to them. “They definitely were willing to work with us.” The issues identified by EGLE at the plant involved “a series of problems that we have to address,” Czarnecki said, noting that those problems presented no threat to public health. Kevin Goodwin, an aquatic biology specialist with the Water Resources Division’s Surface Water Assessment Section, said phosphorus and nitrogen are not toxicants; they are nutrients and the concern about these discharges typically arc due to a corresponding growth of algae and plants that can have an impact over lime. Thc cumulative impact of repeated discharges of these substances can have an impact on aquatic life, he said. Human health is not a primary concern with these types of releases, Goodwin said, but phosphorus and nitrogen can change the oxygen in the water and have an impact on aquatic life, such as the fathead minnow. Fecal coliform is more of a recreational issue that is short-lived and less problematic in the winter, Goodwin said. A release involving mercury, a ^nSXsU'mthroughcon.suntption °f ^‘But we regulate it at such small levels,’ Goodwin added. “Any singul^ source we re talking about could be infinitesimal 4e use the most restrictive, conservative number that we can. Mercury' is a chemical people may find in their homes in old thermometers or thermostats, he mentioned, or >tmay come from a dentist's office. It should neverbe dumped in the trash. It should be taken to a hazardous waste center for proper disposal. The state’s corrective order is an opportunity for residents to learn about hazardous chemicals like mercury' and what to do so that it doesn’t end up in the wastewater treatment facility, Goodwin said. Czarnecki said resolution of these issues is “a huge relief.” The city has changed supervision to provide more support to staff, with Robins from DPS moving over to manage the drinking water treatment plant and Holzworth as the on-site operator of the wastewater treatment plant. Gergen is responsible for those two operations as well as streets. The plan now in place will support proper operation of the wastewater treatment plant, and lhe upgrade will ensure it, Czarnecki said. “We’re looking at how to put procedures in place before red flags pop up.” he added. “My goal is to get this organization running efficiently.” ...-2;,. I.'- Don Drummond HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Friday. March 6 - preschool story time, 10:30-11 am. Monday, March 9 - Quilting Passions, 10 a.m.-l p.m.; Endangered Michigan (DNR, family event), 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 10 - toddler time, 10:30­ 11 a.m.; Great Decisions: Televised - Human Trafficking: Global and Local Perspectives, noon-1 p.m.; Great Decisions: Foreign Affairs Discussions - China in Latin America, 1:30­ 3:30 p.m,; mahjonn club, chess club and euchre. 5:30 pjn. Wednesday, March 11 - History Hounds "Out of This World ’’ Michigan Women in Space, 7-8:30 p.m. ’ Thursday, March 12 - Baby Cafd.10 am.noon; Movie Memories and Milestones watches 1942 film .starring Spencer Tracy, Hedy Lamarr. john Garfield and Ralph Morgan, 5 p.m. More information about these and other events is available hv calling the library. 269- GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribeto Hasthos Banner. Call 269-945-9554 for more information. The extraordinary life of Don Drummond has come to an end. He died February 29, 2020 in thc comfort of his home in Hastings, in thc company of those he loved. For over 35 years, Don was a driving force in the business and spiritual life of Barry County, was a visionary who was instrumental in bringing new ideas and lasting vitality to his community. He sought to preserve the small-town virtues of Hastings while pushing for long-term, thoughtful sustainability, and leaves a legacy of hands-on philanthropy and selfless mentorship that will be remembered for generations to come. Act 1 of Don’s life began in Peoria, Illinois. He started making his income early, with a series of part-time jobs, learned self­ determination and discipline. He attended the University of Illinois (’57, BA Economics) where some of his best limes were spent al the Fiji house (Phi Gamma Delta), on campus stages and adding his soaring baritone to various campus glee clubs. It was a shared love of singing that brought him into the orbit of Susan Black. Marrying in 1957, Don and Sue moved to Columbus, Indiana where Don began rising through the management ranks of the Cummins Engine Company. They also grew to a family of five. Cummins sent Don to build an engine manufacturing plant in Davcnlry, England. The Drummonds returned to the US in the mid-’70s. Act 2 found Don in West Michigan, first as VP of Manufacturing at Herman Miller, then VP and GM at Flexfab, and finally President of Spectra Products Corp. Don and Sue came to Hastings dedicated to the arts, long-range planning and community building. They invigorated and transformed the culture with their energy, imagination and can-do spirit and started a unique festival called FibcrFesl a comprehensive celebration of fiber animals and fiber arts. Don was a founding member of the Barrv County Futuring Committee, on the original board of the Barry Community Foundation and was a leading member of a robust patchwork of committees devoted to economic development, planning, land-use and zoning issues. His energy, insight and persistence made all of these ventures successful. One of the great sadnesses of his hfe, however, was that Sue could not share fully in these triumphs. Sue was struck down by cancer in 1995. n Act 3 of Don's life began with his marriau.to Sand, in 1997, a long-ttmc friend X perfect partner. In retirement, his commitment to the enduring good health of Hastings and Barry County grew, as did his involvement with First Presbyterian Church ot Hastings. A key figure in building the new church, he was deeply involved in the church s mission work to Mexico and Honduras. Don believed in people power, rolling up his shirt sleeves, getting things done and working as a team with humor and humility. e challenged himself and everyone around him to set tough goals and achieve them. He oo- a so the time to mentor those around him without judgement and always gained a friend in the process. He will be missed. Don was preceded in death by his parents y and Edna, and his first wife Susan. He FrinUW by |his Wifc Sandi’ her ri;i s«n-in-law Matt Welker, son Anri.3 I?'’? ShCTri’ son David ^d wifc brother paughler and husband Jim; nr•ind\,i?gCr <amdy*’ and nine fantastic L’re n -r * iin and onc even morc fantastic great granddaughter. can11 RCU fl°Wers» memorial contributions hX-Lle ? Noah’s Ark the Fifki i> ■n(!a^sarkscboof°rg/donate.html, 415 N M%"irian Chun;h °r or the if37 H‘Shway. Hastings, Ml 49058 Groun»5OUnty Parkinson’s Support Aginiz ^arry C°unty Commission on comm’i vww.banycounty.org/ 220 W q.°.nf>n -a^nS^ncw/rionations.php7 Stalc St. 1MI 49058. a«Vo'^‘,n 1 ** Salurday. March 7, 2020 < follow W.‘lh1Celtb^on of Life Service Chur h or „ ' a “ Firet Presbyterian Ml 4905K "TP85' 405 N' M’37' Ilas,in8S’ Arrm 8.‘ 11 lunche°n following. To leavpCRlCnU Uirrbach Funeral Home- S-baehirhX^ — �Tlw Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 5. 20Zn — Pag» 7 Urban expert offers tips to K Rebc«» Pierce Editor An expert in urban growth gave a HMtings Tuesday and maneled abo^^n ^Doctor Universe ^“nUn,'y ’n WS ,raVl,s Whal he observed here impresses him Robert Gibbs said. h m’ The urbanist and president of Gibb, planning Group ln Birmingham has advised ’fcs °" P an,"n8 f°r m°rc 'han “You should be really proud of vourvnif Gibbs told the gathering in the Walldorff ball­ room. You built your library downtown Til1 $ 'And'' Y°U haV' “ librat>' nnd » city hall.... And a cinema. y He smiled. “I’m probably going to put some intern. „„ researching (the Hastings community) In my opnuon. th.s is one of the best all-purp^e towns in the Midwest.” F Gibbs said he is a member of the Congress for New Urbanism, a planning and devdopment based approach to communities thm emphasizes walkable blocks- and streets housmg and shoppmg in close proximity, and accessible public spaces. 7 Walkability is one of the factors Gibbs cites in assessing the livability of a community. Hastings as great walkability, he added, which means that residents are within walk­ ing distances of key destinations and attractxms such as parks, stores, city and county buildings and a public library. Gibbs offered many examples of innova­ tive design and development, explaining how these approaches fit with demographic chang­ In Barry County, about 15 percent of the population is senior citizens, he said. “In 2045. it's going to be 36 percent.” •‘It's important to plan housing types,” he said, since the trend will be that 75 percent of the families won’t have kids at home. By 2035, large houses will lose value because they will no longer be needed by lhe majority of the population. The advent of an aging population and Growing seashells Robert Gibbs offers some pointers to Haslings area retailers Tuesday. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Obtaining a benefit statement Vonda Van Til Public Affairs Specialist . Tax season is here, and Sikial Security has made replacing am annual benefit statement even easier. The benefit statement, also known as lhe SSA-1099 or lhe SSA-1042S, is a tax form we mail each year in January to people who receive Social Security benefits. It shows the total amount of benefits you received from us in the previous year so you know how . much Social Security income to report to the IRS on your tax return. If you live in the United States and you need a replacement form SSA-1099 or SSAI042S, simply go online and get an instant, printable replacement form using your personal My Social Security account at socialsecurity.gov/myaccount. A replacement SSA-1099 or SSA-1042S is available for the previous tax year. If you already have a My Social Security account, you can log in to your account to view and print your SSA-1099 or SSA1042S. If you don’t have access to a printer, you can save the document to your computer or email it to yourself. If you don’t have a My Social Security account, creating one is easy to do and usually lakes less than 10 minutes. If you’re a non-citizen who lives outside of the United States and you received or repaid Social Security benefits last year, we will send you form SSA-1042S in the mail. The forms SSA-1099 and SSA-1O42S arc not available for people who receive Supplemental Security Income benefits. With a personal My Social Security account, you can do much of your business with us online. If you receive benefits or have Medicare, your personal My Social Security account is also the best way to: • Request a replacement Social Security number card. • Get your benefit verification letter. • Check your benefit and payment information. • Change your address and phone number. • Change your direct deposit information. • Request a replacement Medicare card. • Report your wages if you work and receive Social Security disability insurance or SSI benefits. Visit socialsecurity.gov to find more about our online services. Elaine Garlock A chili supper is planned at the museum on Emerson Street Friday. March 5. from 5 to T^.m. The meal will include desserts and stories about street reconstruction and drain projects to write about. Nothing similar is happening to write about. Thc news from nearby to our north seems to be about automobile accidents. Two such events in the past week within a mile of each other .seemed newsworthy. One involved a fatality of a Portland lady who was close to home in Orange Township. Another involved a lady driver whose two young children were ejected from thc car in a crash, likely because the children were not restrained by seat belts or car seats. 'file latter accident happened because they were within a mile of an earlier accident and traffic ahead was slowed, l he errant driver did not notice lhc change of speed ahead and caused lhe second incident by inattention. Considering the volume of traffic on thc freeway, it is remarkable there are not more such incidents. Many drivers seem to be intent to being thc first one to get to lhe city. One youngster noticing that his cautions mother was being repeatedly passed, exclaimed. “We are going to be thc lat ones there’" beveraites, plus lots of crackers. The Lake Odessa Area Historical Soc.ety wiH meetl^^^^’t^L^peaker. Xhments and more. The annual rejrort «f mentioned, plus addresses and emails of all members. Wedoesdov services were S°Tl i^ttee'k btcause^of the weather. canceled last week be (o 5Ct Saturday night is me I r ol)e clocks ahead by one hour. Sorry • hour's sleep that night. „ House on The newest Hab.tat ^^dedicuted. North Fourth Avenue Some touches rematn to be u such 11S painting the utility ££ |wvc been continuing In months past, there nav Vonda Van Til is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids Ml, or via email at vondu.vantiKfbssa.gov. fewer families with children means that, “for the first time in America, the 25-year-old and the 65-year-old want the same kind of hous­ ing: a luxury apartment within walking dis­ tance of Starbucks and tlie library,” he said. Hastings is the kind of place they want to move to, Gibbs added. “ITiey like real places like this.” "I think Hastings has lhe X factor,” he said, “which is when you have a built environment that people fall in love with. ... During questions al lhe conclusion of his program, Gibbs said there is room for improvement. ’•There arc some signi here that arc unwor­ thy of this place,” he remarked. When lhe weather wands up. he suggested, “Right away, put flower boxes in front of every’ store window. Hire a horticulturist and make this a city of flowers. Support your art program. Light the art pieces. Put in new light fixtures. Do a lot with repainting them with a dark blue or dark green, (but) make sure it’s a warm color. “Strive for that X factor.” Gibbs' last words of advice were: “Embrace your history' and your urbanist. Decide want you want to be and don’t dumb it down.” Dr. Universe: How are seashells formed? And why are they different colors? Can seashells live or die? Caroline, 9, Crestwood, Ky. ! Dear Caroline, Seashells come in an astounding variety. Some are curved and round, others long and tube-like. Some arc smooth, others bumpy. Some are large, others small. Plus, they come in a rainbow of colors, including red. green, brown, purple, pink and more. All that variety comes from the same source: Little animals called mollusks, with a mighty muscle called a mantle. I found out all about them from my friend Richelie Tanner, a scientist at Washington State University. She is curious about the ocean and knows a lot about mollusks. a type of animal with a soft, moist body. There are many kinds of mollusks, both on land and in the sea, with and without shells. If you’ve ever seen a snail or a slug, you’ve met a mollusk in real life. Unlike humans, cats and other animals with backbones, mollusks don’t have skele­ tons inside. Many move through life with just their soft bodies. Bui some grow shells for protection, as a kind of traveling armor. That’s where seashells come from. Tanner said. “A seashell is a protective outer coaling secreted by lhe animal’s mantle, which is one of their muscles," she said. The manllc forms the soft outer walls of their bodies. A mollusk's mantle builds the shell from the bottom up. It absorbs salt and chemicals from the water around it. When it has enough of the right ingredients, it uses them to form a hard substance called calcium car­ bonate. Strong, healthy seashells are made mostly of calcium carbonate. (So are eggshells.) A Dr. Universe Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University's resident scientist and writer at Dr.UniverseQwsiuedu or visit her web­ site, askdruniverse.com. Jeffrey A. Keessen, AIFOf) (269) 948-9969 525 W. Apple St. Hastings, MI 49058 www.vvatersedgefinancial.com Taking care of what's important to you so that you can focus on what matters most to you Securities offered through LPL Firuncul, Member RNRA/SIPC DRUMMOND, continued from page 1---------------Fiberfest, which later became the Michigan Fiber Festival, held annually al lhe Allegan County Fairgrounds. The Drummonds raised more than 300 angora go315 °n dieir farm near Freeport. Susan Drummond, educator, author and farmer, died of cancer in 1995. Don Drummond married his second wife, Sandi, two years later. In his retirement, he played an active role in the construction of the current First Presbyterian Church campus on M-37 in 2009, and undertook church mission trips to Mexico, Costa Rica and Honduras. He also served on lhe board of Noah’s Ark Preschool, which is headquartered at lhe church, Sandi Drummond said. Along with his wife. Sandi, he is survived by three children from his first marriage, Dike (Sherri) Drummond. David (Annie) Drummond, and Dana (Jim) Yarger; step­ daughter Erin (Malt) Welker; brother Roger Drummond and family1 nine grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. A celebration of life service for Drummond will be nt 11 a.m. Saturday at First Presbyterian Church, 405 N. M-37 in Hastings. Visitation will be one hour bcfoie/he service. A lun­ cheon will follow the srtv,ce« Funeral arrange­ ments are being handled by ihe Girrbach Funeral Home. In lieu of (lowers, mtfru°rials may be sent to Noah’s Ark Preschool ^noahsarkschool.org/ donate.html), First Prc^rian Church or the Barry County Parkinson s Support Group at lhe Barry County on Aging, 220 W. State St. (barrycounty^conimission_ on„aging_new/donationvPhp). mollusk produces calcium carbonate from its mantle, adding layers of it over its life­ time. Together, those layers form the sea­ shell. You can think of a seashell kind of like your own hair. Your hair grows and is part of you, but it isn’t alive on its own. A living mollusk produces a shell with its body, but the shell itself isn’t alive. When a mollusk dies, it leaves its shell behind. But even after the life of the mollusk inside has ended, its shell is important. Seashells provide shelter for fish and hermit crabs, nest material for birds, and even nutri­ ents for other animals to build their own shells. You’re right to notice that sexshells can come in many different colors. The way lhe shell forms helps explain where thc color conies from. “The material for the color comes from the mollusk’s environment - so it’s either taken out of the water or from what they cat,” Tanner said. For example, seashells from warm waters tend to be more colorful than those from cold areas. This might have lo do with their diet. Warm Caribbean waters have more colorful foods than the cold ocean near Maine. We know seashells’ colors come from their environment. But scientists don’t know yet how lhe colors get spread around, creat­ ing brilliant patterns. If you keep asking questions and hunting for answers, maybe you could help figure this out. CORRECTION! BARRY TOWNSHIP MARCH 10, 2020 PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY Registered voters in Barry Township should vote at 155 East Orchard Street, Delton, MI 49046. The address in the February 27, 2020 Banner for Barry Township was incorrect. Pam Palmer Barry County Clerk HASTINGS AREA SCHOOL SYSTEM ANNOUNCES YOUNG KINDERGARTEN & KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION ROUNDUP REGISTRATION OF YOUNG KINDERGARTEN & KINDERGARTEN STUDENTS (children must be 5 on or before December 1“/ for nett school year will take place on Thursday. March 12th from 9:00 a.m. until 700 p.m. at thc Hastings Community Center, 520 IV South St, Htnf'ngs, Michigan. it is not necessary to bring your child at the time of registration. Parents will be asked to complete on enrollment form and ore asked to bring with them child's certified birth certificate, immunduhon record, and verification of residency Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads DY STATE LAW immunuations and vision and hearing testing mult be comp'ete before school attendance in the fall. 4t the time of registration, parents will also be given an appointment for a vision and hearing test. �8 — Thursday, March 5. 2020 — The Hastings Banner Rising temperatures may allow lake _ pumping to begin used io lake waler off Crooked I-ake will be Lake Frvncheck placed further into the property and will be Staff Writer used to pump water north, he said. ♦ As temperalures continue to increase, thc However, that pumping cannot begin until ice covering flooded lakes in southern Barry the Michigan Department of Environment, County is beginning to recede. Once ice cov­ Great Lakes and Energy approves lhc dram erage is less than 25 percent, pumps will be commissioner’s permit to do so. Thc pennit is started on Crooked and Cloverdale lakes. for lhc construction of infrastructure on “If wc get thc weather they said we would, Cloverdale and Long lakes to allow for thc we're hoping to be pumping by the end of thc pumping water north from Crooked Lake. week,” Barry County drain commissioner Jim Once EGLE approves thc permit, a public Dull said Tuesday. “But no guarantee. I’d love hearing must be held. to, though, because wc really need to be “The permit has been on thc stale s desk for pumping.” lhc past few weeks, and we really want to ’ Heather Orow, of thc National Weather have that hearing as soon as possible,” Cenci Service’s Grand Rapids Office, said lhe . warmer temperatures Barry County has been said. After the hearing, Dull and Cenci will be experiencing should continue into next week. able to start construction, after which lhey The forecast calls for nighttime temperatures al freezing or a bit below freezing until will begin pumping. Dull’s goal on the Watson Drain project is Sunday and Monday when temperatures still to get as much water off Crooked Lake as during lhe day are expected to hit 50 degrees. lhey can. • “As wc head into March, it’s getting He also addressed some questions raised by increasingly unlikely that temperatures will get really cold again, but you never know,” Upper Crooked Lake residents regarding the time that project is taking to complete. Qrow said. The Pine Lake flooding relief project, Barry County has a higher than normal which had its initial public meeting last sum­ likelihood for above-normal rainfall in lhe springtime, she added. However, no major mer, had a follow-up meeting lo discuss thc rain events are in the forecast in lhe next solution proposed by LRE engineers who are heading up thc project. This progress had led seven days. ’ Increased spring rain expectancy is lhe pri­ some Upper Crooked Lake residents to won­ mary reason Dull wants to get those pumps der why the Watson Drain project is taking so much lime. running. Dull said the delay is due to EGLE’s hesi­ GEI engineer Brian Cenci said that, last year, Crooked Lake rose 95 and 10 inches, tancy about allowing the plan to take water due to rainfall. This year, they are expecting north, a position that changed once Jared Sanders, EGLE’s new water resource director, between 9 and 11 inches. Cenci said Crooked Lake is four inches entered that post in early 2019. Some motorists have expressed concerns higher now than it was last year, but thc pumping system they have in place makes since water seems to be creeping closer to them more prepared for spring rains than they M-43 Highway near Cloverdale Lake. High water closed lhe highway last year in lhe same were last year. The pumping system, which takes water location. Due to the flooding on Cloverdale Lake, from Upper Crooked Lake to a nearby deten­ tion basin, has been running since last sum­ Dull said the lake could be bypassed entirely mer. Dull said he and a team just finished and a pipe could be run directly to Long Lake. improving lhc system so they could pump That option could be explored should the sit­ more water off the lake once lhe weather per­ uation become more dire. But the road commission did some work mits them to do so. Another line was bored beneath Delton along the highway to try to prevent the Road to increase pumping capacity onto the water’s advancement, something that seems property. The new line would allow use of a to be working for now, he said. As lhe Watson Drain project continues, larger, 18-inch, pump to remove water from Crooked Lake, doubling lhe current pumping Dull said he already noticed positive improve­ ment in performance since changing to GEI output. - Dull said the plan is to have lhe 9 piezom­ engineering. “The response time on some of the stuff has eters installed by Friday so that when they begin pumping, they will be able lo see where been much faster,” Dull said. “Time is money, and this is saving people time.” their waler is going. Dull said his philosophy on the project is The 12-inch pump that has, until now, been that, the faster they can get a solution in place, the less chance they’ll be hil with another lawsuit. "Lawsuits don’t help anyone. It’s just tak­ ing money out and burning it,” he said. A new drain commission web page offers links to updates for some of the major proj­ ects. “As for right now, we’re just trying to get the pumps on before lhe rain starts coming down,” he said. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads KYOMI’S GIFT PRESENTS sH/wocxin' 12:30 - 6:30 PM M AT BARRY COMMUNITY ENRICHMENT CENTER M SATURDAY MARCH 14™ ScholarsltipSF,?^e 9re?und providers? 000 qrhS9'0?-09 °f tho show‘ wh,ch is ,he Primary funding source for the Mary Youngs music and athie^^ring their high s$chool°years ar5h'PS annua,ly t0 two Stings High School seniors who have excelled In both ‘Made in Michigan' concert draws a full house Saturday Steve Youngs bells out “Rocket 88” during the show. Youngs organizes the concert each year to honor his wife, Mary, who died in 2006. She was a speech pathologist and teacher for Hastings schools and, later, became principal at Northeastern Elementary School. Doug Acker shows his musical mastery of a variety of instruments during the show. Hastings bands earn top ratings at festival The Hastings High School Symphonic Band earns straight Division I ratings from judges during at the Feb. 26 Michigan School Band and Orchestra festival. (Photo by Stacey Steward) All Hastings Area Schools bands earned straight Division I ratings last week in the Michigan School Band and Orchestra District 10 festival. “We are happy to report the all bands received Division 1 ratings from all judges al band festival this year,” Spencer White, who co-directs the bands with Jen Ewers, said. "This is the best rating you can receive.” The high school Symphonic and Concert bands, along with the seventh and eighth grade bands all earned top ranks as Hastings hosted the MSBOA festival at the performing arts center Feb. 26. In addition, the Symphonic Band received all A’s for each category from every judge. White said. This was the second year the festival has been in Hastings. “Visiting groups and directors are thrilled to be performing in lhe state-of-the-art Hastings Performing Arts Center,” White said. “By serving as host, we are also saving the district money by not having to bus 250 students to other schools to perform for festival. Lots to be proud of!” Currently, Haslings has 357 students enrolled in band, and White said they continue to anticipate growth in the program. In addition to the four bands listed above. marching band and sixth grade band also are part of the curriculum. In addition, students can perform with lhe middle school jazz band, high school jazz band, high school dnimline, winter guard, steel band, pit orchestra, and solo and ensemble festivals as extracurricular activities. The marching band has earned straight Division I ratings at the fall MSBOA festival for more than 60 years. The Hastings bands continue to be a point of pride for the district and community, White said. 231S. Broadway In Hastings Live Music with: Eg i KILKENNY CORKERS stoning at 1:00 Irish Trivia between «ts Irish Music Irish Jig Competition cash bar - ah afternoon Silent Auction Full Irish Dinner - BIG PLATE $10 LITTLE PLATE WCORNED BEEF CARROTS CABBAGE ONIONS POTATOES OPTIONAL-HOT DOG CHIPS & MacNcheose GIVING A HELPING HAND PLEASE VISIT KYQMlSglFT.ORG MEMBER OF BAHRY LOUMUtfllY FOJNDATsOH Lakewood Area Choral Society seeking male singers Lakewood Area Choral Society has been entertaining audience locally and worldwide for 34 years. Now entering its 35th year, the choir is actively recruiting tenors, baritones and basses. The choir, under the direction of Dr. Robert C. Oster was formed in January of 1986 to provide adults in and around the Lakewood school district with an opportunity to sing in a large, semi-professional chorus. Its repertoire ranges from sacred and classical, to show tunes and pop music. Currently, the choral society has a roster of 90 amateur singers representing 21 communities and 25 ZIP codes in western and mid-Michigan. The performers are a diverse group who range front their 20s to 80s and pursue a variety of professions, hobbies and interests. Membership js open to anyone with choral experience, who loves to sing and who is willing to be dedicated to the LACS family. 'Fhe choir ii primarily seeking new tenors, baritones and basses, bul a’los ant^ second sopranos also are welcome. Forms may be filled out on the website lisled below. Monday, March peosp«?ctive ncw members should attend a "get-to-know-us, no-commitment’* irhearsul nt 7 p.m. al “ “.................... “ * 8346 W. Sunfield United ~ Brethren Church, Grand Ledge Highway/M-43, Sunfield. Choral Society members will greet guests al the door and usher them to their prospective sections. Detailed information regarding lhe choral society’s operation and voice interview specifics will be given following the informal practice. After the initial rehearsal, those interested in becoming members will have a voice interview to check range and experience. Voice interviews will take place at Grace Lutheran Church, 239 E. North St., Hastings, March 16 for second sopranos and altos and March 23 from 6 to 6:50 p.m. for tenors, baritones and basses. After lhe voice interviews, prospective new members will be invited to sit in on that evening’s sectional rehearsal. Once that is successfully completed, payment of the annual dues will make membership official. Potential new members will be welcomed and receive a folder of music to be rehearsed. To assist in experiencing the music and camaraderie of LACS, new members will be assigned a mentor who will guide them through lhe first season. The choral society’s season runs from March through December. Rehearsals, both full and sectional, are normally Mondays from 7 to 9 p.m. The 2020 commitment for singers is a total of 18 rehearsals and five concerts, making the total commitment 23 days of 365. To allow time for vacations, no rehearsals will be held from mid-June lo mid-August. The concert schedule includes: May 3 - Jenison Center for the Performing Arts. June 14 - First Baptist Church in Portland’ Aug. 30 - Pleasant Valley United Brethren Church, Lake Odessa. Oct. 25 -Hastings Performing Arts Center, joined by the Jackson Chorale for a 35th anniversary gala concert. . December (date to be determined) f Christmas concert al Lakewood High School Auditorium. Further information about becoming a member and registration is available al lacsmusic.org. by clicking on “accepting new members” then ‘‘register here ” Additional information can be obtained by emailing Joanie Oster, executive assistant, lacsmusictttgmiul.com, or calling 269-967­ 7246. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-03-12.pdf 2f83cf42ce2b7b1e93e17ac2267b6c86 PDF Text Text Hastings Public Library 227 L State Street Hastings Mi 49058 Growtl*is Sood - Pro set, scenery amp up ‘Little Mermaid’ when ,n®,*aged See See Story on Page 2 ^a8e 4 Veitch goes out with 2 more state champs See Story on Page 13 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 1070490102590501722349058195427 TTA HA ......................... ..... ouhtc Libras ............ 804879110187 ' Banner ThursdayL^1?r_chJ_2.2020 VOLUME 167, No. 11 PRICE 75C Spike in absentee ballots highlight primary election I Tax form donation pays big locally The Family Support Center of Barry I County encourages area residents to “stand ■ up for kids” by supporting the Children’s I Trust Fund of Michigan by checking the j box and filing a Michigan Tax Form 4642. £ The Children's Trust Fund, a statewide | nonprofit organization dedicated to pre- £ vention of child abuse and neglect, is $ «] funded by interest income from the trust j! I” fund, direct donations, grants, earned jl income, sales from a specially license ;; « plate, fundraising events, and the income f tax check-off campaign. ’• For every dollar donated by Barry !; | County residents, an average of $161.85 $ s has come back to the county. Family | Support Center of Barry County Executive | Director Linda Maupin said of the average j j calculated from tax years 2013 to 2018. !< Funding runtime provided pros med by by the the Children Children ’s; « Trust Fund complements the support g c received from Barry County United Way / to help cover the cost of parenting educa- k ! tian and programs such as the Family S Wc<J.shop Series. , Those who submit their tax returns elec- (j I ironically can find the Children’s Trust j Fund under Contribution Funds just before > 1 they submit their returns. '• ”11 a tax professional prepares your ■ « Michigan income tax return, be sure to 5 ! inform them of your wishes to contribute | to CTF,” Maupin said Greg Chandler and Luke Fronchcck Stuff Writers Barry County voters took advantage of new Michigan election rules that make it easier to vote by absentee ballot and to register to vote on the day of the election during Tuesday’s presidential primary’. The primary was the first major statewide election since Michigan voters in November 2018 approved a series of changes to state election laws that included being able to obtain an absentee ballot without having to provide a reason and being able to vote on the same day of registration. Barry County voters approved Proposal 3 by a 58-42 percent mar­ gin. County Clerk Pam Palmer says, despite the changes, she was pleased with how the elec­ tion turned out. “For the most part, we were clicking right along.” Voter turnout in the primary' countywide was 25.6 percent,down from the 2016 prima­ ry that involved contested races in both par­ ties. when more than 30 jxTcent of registered voters cast ballots. A total of 12.148 ballots were cast countywide - 6550 in the Democratic primary. 5.269 in 1heRcpul’l'C-«'pru>u0. In 2016. 10.216 voter, ,n lhc tallols in the Rcpubh • > | nniaij- while 4,754 voted in iheDe>n«;R, ,cl’r'''’ar>-. Former Vice Biden captured 54 percent of 'he DemoCTsuc voles, while Bernie Sanders received 35 percent. In the presidential primary years ago, Sanders received 63 percent oi Democratic votes in the county when HiuaO '-hnton was running for the nomination. President Donald Trump received nearly 94 percent of the GOP primary vo(es js car 2016. I rump received just under 33 percent of votes in the Republican primary in the county, edging out U.S. Sen. led Cruz of Texas by 36 votes. 3.355-3319* Some local municipalities reported a signif­ icant spike in requests tor absentee ballots. One township set up a designated board to handle the onslaught of absentee ballots. Rutland Charter Tow nship had a|lnusl 500 absentee ballots cast during Tuesday’s elec­ tion. tripling the number they had during the last election. Of the township’s 3.100 regis­ tered voters, around 22 percent arc on the permanent absentee ballot list. The number of Flooding fight mauts ® race against Mother Mature P a 1 lhe Hastings High School Alumni Association Board has begun planning for the 2020 banquet Friday, Aug. 28, at lhe First Presbyterian Church of Hastings. The board is looking for class represen­ tatives to help with the planning. Representatives arc needed for lhe hon­ ored classes of 1945, 1950. 1955, 1960, 1965. 1975. 1980, 1985, 1990 and 2000. Representatives have already been identi­ fied for 1970 and 1995. Anyone wishing to help with their individual class gather- ;; ings may contact alumni board president Lois Bowers. Ute board also is accepting nominations for the 2020 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year. The award will be presented at the •’ Aug. 28 banquet. Any classmate, friend,! family member and/or member of die I School. Board members also encourage anyone who has submitted a nomination in the past to resubmit one again with up-to-date 9657. AU nominations recel\l. ? date will be considered for the Alumnus ol ‘he Year /Xward. in the first calendar year of the levy. About 95 percent of the dispatch's fund­ ing comes from the millage. The remainder comes from the State of Michigan on money collected from fees on telephone bills. The center recently implemented new computer-aided dispatch, which allows for better and more efficient storage and disper­ sal of information. Three new dispatchers are currently in training. Lehman said the focus will be on training and new computer-aided dispatch before the summer, which is the busiest time of year. Cooffirmsttora of cases m Wlichigan prompts self-quaraotines in region community may make a nomination for ’’ the award. Nominations must be typed and -'i must contain biographical information and e reasons why the individual is being nomi­ nated. Reasons can include accomplish­ ments. vocation honors and awards received, community service, organization j memberships and other helpful informa­ tion. The nominee can lx residing any­ where, not necessarily in Hastings, but j must be an alumnus of Hastings High $ j / j I See ELECTION, page 3 Barry County Central Dispatch ! railage renewal passes lay lor Owens Staff Writer five-year millage renewal for Barry County Central Dispatch passed 7516 to 4,134 in Tuesday’s election. "1 feel that wc have a lot of support here at Barry County.” Central Dispatch Director Stephanie Lehman said Wednesday. ”We are very fortunate lo work in that environ­ ment.” The levy of .9672 mill will provide an estimated $2.1 million in revenue to Barry County Central Dispatch. A property with a taxable value of $50,000 will be assessed an estimated $48 Alumni board seeking class reps, award nominations information , . . Nomination letters may besen! to Uns Bowers. 102 E. Clinton St., Hastings, MJ 49058. by July 15. Questions alsocanJ* •Erected 10 Bowen by callmr’ Township Clerk Mel Risner said. “We’ve got more absentees returns than we normally send out (in) applications." Risner reported things went very well, even with the increased numbers of absentee bal­ lots. There was at least one minor glitch that got resolved, she said. "We had a person show up who had a voter registration card, and then it said she wasn’t in our e-poll b<x)k. so wc had to pul her in otir e-poll book, and later the slate of Michigan sent us a notice that she should have been in our e-poll book, but by then she had already voted,” Risner said. Elsewhere in the county, Hope Towmship Clerk Deb Jackson reported a similar increase in turnout. Township election workers saw about 800 ballots cast between walk-in and absentee ballots, compared to only 447 during the 2012 primary season. Jackson said she was comparing her numbers to that primary season because during the 2016 election both parties had a primary while in 2012 there was only one. similar to now. a I I" absentee ballots cast in Rutland outnumbered lhe amount of ballots cast by people coining into vote at one of lhe precincts With their number of absentee ballots already high, lhe township board approved lhe creation of an absentee ballot voting board to help move the evenings ballot counting along. Township Clerk Robin Hawthorne said that the newly established board was a “godsend” that allowed her and her election workers to pel home on election day around two hours earlier. While normal voting was taking place, the new absentee ballot counting board pro­ cessed ballots throughout the afternoon, cut­ ting time that Hawthorne and her team would have taken to process ballots after pulls closed Tuesday evening. In Thomapple Township, absentee requests doubled from the last presidential primary in 2016. The tow nship issued 602 absentee bal­ lots. compared to the 300 or so it used to receive before the change in state law. lownship Clerk Cindy Willshire said. Orangeville Township saw requests for absentee ballots more than double. ”A year ago, we had maybe 230-some absentee voters. Now we have over 500,” The 12-inch pump on the former Darron । au took Dram Commissioner Jim Dull could get it st™"?5 prop Z a b'l ol work before 'i aiunGQ, Luke Fronchcck Stuff Writer Kirlier this week, Drain Commissioner Jim Dull knew he could start pumping water soon The question is: Was it soon enough? As temperatures increase, water levels on lakes throughout southern Barry County continuc to rise. Crooked Lake’s level has continued to get higher, and water is already creeping across lhe portion of M-43, west of Cloverd.de Lake that was closed for an extended period last year. ' liven with warm weather. Dull couldn’t switch the pumps on until there was at least 40 feet of open water between ice on the lake and the shoreline As ice eonlin‘jed l<> . *as safe to start pump;f,}, 1 > *Vdnesday it Vet. while ),nnhel|k,.j shoreline, it *■>' " ” V Bevans lhe w^^lx,j%j "1 d»!“' '■"•’.d lion is derriWH‘jl.'» lh<ir't’ a"> hike levels. Di*11 si“d' °ns lo ,wer Barry County ram event” o» ri,u,Sd;‘> c. U1.VAPvct ”n large National Weath^ Sc^u.v Joe Ceru, a G’raiid Rapids. ?ald' P,vsentutive Irom Maximum ( consistently »n ,,h* 4( ,’ho‘dd remain wiih overnight l(’Wh % h ’• «nio next week ( cru.said. ,n’’ ,,ear freezing. Luke Fronchcck and Savanah Kacchelc J-Ad ;Yt’ir.v Seniee lite recent confirmation of two cases of COVID-19 in Michigan prompted action at Kellogg Community College, where an instructor is under self-quarantine due to pos­ sible exposure to the novel coronavirus. “As of this moment, every thing is going on as normid,” KCC Chief Communication Officer Eric Greene said Wednesday. In an email message to students I uesday, KCC officials reported: "As of today, KCC has one instructor who is self-quarantined due to a possible exposure based on recent travel to an area in the United States with al least one confirmed case. That instructor is work­ ing from home and fulfilling all responsibili­ ties with no disruption to students. Greene said the instructor has experienced no symptoms of the virus and made the per­ sonal decision to sell-quarantine. Over the past few weeks, college officials have been discussing whai actions should be taken in the event COVID 19 is mnfirmed |<k illy Several institutions have opted to con­ tinue (eachiny remotely via the internet in the wake of the disease, includnic: Michigan .Smtelhnu-rMiy.Cenrr.il M.elunan UnverMty. The Univer>ity of Michigan. Michigan Technological University, Oakland LinveLMly. Wuvne State University. Saginaw Valley Mate Universitv, Ferris Slate I niverMty, Eastern Michigan University and Western Michigan University. , ... As of Wednesday. Greene said, classes will continue, but. if the virus continue, to sptead officials will strongly consider inoMitc all cla.se, online and continuing instruction die "''iLt evening. KCC officials announced Ihev were siisjicnding all non entic.il colleae-r. latcd travel thimtgh April-*0 KCC is defining critical navel as - any trav ,| MKinsorcd in or conducted on tahall oi lhe qie« c - i‘» <u0' declination by any means riiLl K necessary for institutional compliance. jndtvidu.il .|c>h requirements or required tram ing.” Michigan Stale University President Samuel Stanley alerted MSU students and families via email Wednesday, "Early this morning we learned of an individual linked to our campus which the Ingham County Health Department is currently investigating and monitoring. Due to this, we arc now taking additional steps to keep our community safe. ... Effective today at noon, MSU is .suspend­ ing face-to-face instruction in lectures, semi­ nars and classrxxmi settings and moving coursework to virtual instruction. " This suspension of in-person classes will last until Monday. April 20. and we will re-evaluate this decision on an ongoing basis, sharing additional updates or modifications as more informalion becomes available.” The campus remains open al this time, he said, however, officials arc evaluating lar^c events. “We will provide more inionnation soon and urge everyone to consider the health implications of large gatherings and evaluate the essential nature of the events," he wrote. "We will not be .scheduling new events with more than 100 individuals in a confined space during for this time jicriod unless there arc special circumstances.” In a second self-quarantine situation in the. region, Barry-Eaton District Health Department officials were made aware Monday of a potential COVID-19 concern at Greyhound Intermediate School in Eaton Rapids after it became known that a school employee had returned to work after traveling in Italy. ~ traveler* returning from countries with widespread, sustained transmission of COVID-19 (Italy, Iran, China and South Korea) are advised to self-quarantine at home tor 14 day*, according to the health demn mem. * lhe wlKKil employee has not hud sym„ toms ol COVID-19 at this time. hovvevcX See CASES, page 3 �UP ‘Little Mermaid’ Produd’°2 Page 2 - Thursday. March 12. 2020 — The Hastings Banner scenery Show is tonight through Saturday As the Hastings Performing Arts Center marks its one-year anniversary, the Hastings High School musical production of "The Qttle Mermaid," under the direction of Andrew Moore. will take center stage with its opening night tonight. • This year marks many firsts for lhe HHS musical, as well as the performing arts center, pit director Spencer White said, noting that it vol! be the most technologically advanced nju-sicai in the school's history. •Ten hanging sets and backdrops provide vivid scenery, nearly double last year’s “Beauty and the Beast” and three limes as many as at Central Auditorium. The fly. or rigging system, is operated by stagehands Jeff Buehl and Craig Holley. /■More than 20 professionally made and painted set pieces are being managed by the 13-membcr student crew under the leadership of stage manager Dan Hayward. This is the largest crew in the last 15 years. White said. Three student spotlight operators are led by lighting designer Michael Sali. This year’s production is a result of many partnerships established almost a year ago. White acquired lhe professional set from the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre and Forest Hills Northern High School. The set has already been sold lo Fruitport High School and, following the curtain call Saturday night, the set will be picked up and transported to Fhiitport. ” White also researched and produced the special effects and drops being used in lhe Show. These effects and professional sets, he Said, are lhe first of their kind in school history. «t Emily Hayward is lhe vocal coach, Whitney Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Bannerads ■ The ship’s crew, wary of storms and the -merpeople” living fath -• b , frayed by (below, from left) Ian Dexter, Connor Lindsey, Alexander - photo kv Kyler VanZanten, Alex Forsberg; (above) Gavin Palton and Grayson Pano . , • y are reunii Prince Eric (Connor Gaskill) Martin-Pennington is assistant director, Hannah LaJoyc is choreographer, and Kyle Steward served as the audio mixer. The cast is being costumed by seamstresses Amy Meeker and Jean Ann Wahl Piotrowski. Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s classic story and the animated film, Disney’s “The Little Mermaid," the love story features music by eight-time Academy Award winner Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater and a book by Doug Wright. 'Die fishy fable includes songs such as “Under the Sea,” “Kiss lhe Girl" and "Part of Your World.” As the story goes, Ariel. King Triton’s youngest daughter, wishes to pursue the human Prince Eric in the world above. So Ariel makes a bargain with the evil sea witch, Ursula, to trade her tail for legs. But the bargain is not what it seems, and Ariel needs the help of her colorful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull and Sebastian the crab to restore order under the sea. The News IsJust the Beginning Subscribe Today! Don't miss a single copy Your Community... Your Family...Your Interests Your Home.. .Your World.. Call 800.870.7085 or pick it up at one of our locations listed below! It's All a Part ofYour Local Newspaper! Hp I DeuytrJ tJ Ike l>-!rrr0« nf Hjrry Cou/tly Bob Gaskill) The talc will be retold in Hastings this weekend by more than 65 HHS students, in order of appearance: . . Pilot - Alex Malmquist; Prince Eric Connor Lindsey; Grimsby Dexter; Ariel - Nicole Strouse; Flounder - Valentina Arias; Scuttle - Amy Forsberg; Windward - Gavin Patton; Leeward -Grayson Patton; King Triton-Andre Perez; and Sebastian - Alex Steward. Mermaid sisters Allant-Makayla Casarez; Aquata - Kennedy Allyn; Andrina - Ellie Saur; Arista - Emma VanDenburg; Atina Anna Haywood; and Adella - Haily Christie. Flotsam - Anna Scheck; Jetsam - Grace Green; Ursula - Hannah Slaughter; and Chef Louis - Lucas Richards. Princesses - Kennedy Allyn, Makayla Casarez, Hannah Bancroft, Kaycie Jenkins, Abby Waller and Aura Wahl-Piotrowski. Maids - Brenna KIipferand Chelsea Beede. Sea Chorus- Xander AHerding, Taylor Arens, Lauren Arnold, Joy Aukerman, Hannah Bancroft. Kassidy Bilger,Audrey Byykkonen, Aubree Donaldson. Paige Eagle, Vai Eaton, Lily Faubcrt, Alex Forsberg, Katlyn Forte, Dylan Gallentine, Abby Gaskill, Gabbie Horrman, Jaelyn Jackson. Kaycie Jenkins, Lilly Johnson, Brenna Klipfcr. Gus Malik, Amber Markley, Mfadbon McWhinney, Patton,, Tiffany Moyer, Gat ijrattoX,Grayson _________ Peighton Reser, '-tutus bias Richards, Richards. Emily Emilv Simmons, Brcena Symonds. Alayna Torres, Maddie TraveuKyleq Van Zanten. Hannah Vann, Mitdie0Ann, Donovyn Vaughn, Briana Vincent and Aura Wahl-Piotrow ski. Sea Chorus featured dancers - Chelsea Beede, Kierstyn Brisco. Zara Franklin, Hailey Graham. Claire Green. Hannah Johnson, Payton Lcvctt, Natalia Marquez, Elli McFarlan, Julia McLean, Ella Tellkamp and Zoey Tielemans. • Student backstage crew - Katie Clark, Ben Curtis. Elena Friddle, Jasmine Gale, Ryan Hinckley, Lacie Overmire, Will Roosien, Nevaeh Shull, Daniel VanHouten, Owen Wilson and Alena Wunderlich. Spotlight operators - Zander Botimer, Jenevieve Holtrust and Sam Pattok. Make-up assistants - Kallie Leary and Kiley Miles. Both students and adult guest musicians arc providing musical accompaniment in the pit orchestra. They include: Blair Anderson, Abby Barton, Shannon Brown, Alivia Cassini, Brandon Darling, Jen Ewers, Connor Frank, i FraHklin, Steve Hoke. Jesse Hunt, Aihsley Jones. Cindy Kaczmarczyk, David Kaczmarczyk, Patrick Mallory, Malt Matuszek, Nicole Minning. Noelia Moreno, Ross Peterson, Eric Ramey, Mark Ramsey, Emily Sedgwick. Harrison Smalley and Camden Tellkamp. With planning ovcr the course of 12 months, two weeks of auditions, and 10 weeks of rehearsals, this show is absolutely fabulous." White said, “A tnic school and ’ •>* Three of Ariel's mermaid sisters are portrayed by (from left) Ellie Saur. Hailey Christie and Kennedy Allyn. snows some of the backdrops for this year’s musical production of “The Little Mermaid.' The set and s Grand Rapids Civic Theatre already has been sold and will b• — scenery used by the e on Hs way io Fruitport Saturday night. (Photo by Craig Holley) community effort has been put forth to make this show something super special.” Performances will be tonight through Saturday. March 12-14, at 7 p.m. A 2 p.m. matinee is planned Saturday, March 14. AH showswill be at the 1 Listings Performing Arts Center, 520 W. South St.. Hastings. ?re S10 and available onfinc al Ikk by calling " purchased """ “,K i"e,c<hW'! 1MS6 Hastings Banner I red locutions to pnrchiise the Hastings Banner! ' • : . rj'-. StC3Shop |Ph<pS€6) (M4JM Septette Fa’TutyFare RfoeUke Dc-Z-if Country Slo-'e F^yn's Market fktf/igs Johnny's ftelmofe Ph-General Store pfatftesiiie Fast Stop Mararw ■ Sam’s Garnet Fogdi Mega Pir-nltoGk G-ft Snop Gtosnfefe Cwverrf j;e Gc-wj Johnny’s MV Pharmacy ‘e C Store Can's Lakt-0 Express tow & Cog: !.•/ teton Fanny Ffirfr (itcj’c Cst-M'-Go utile's Country State LstiLQd&Sa ,rMi.-G3*S>3wn ■SpeerrW tteshyilte TbiJ.ngPcr B'wt'4 Cedar Geek Grocery . 6€ Gfcs Sia’jon (//. Swe St) tfa'-gteens Woodland Woua* r*d Express Lake-O-Mart late Odessa Johnn/t Carl’s »Mon Johnny ts MW Ban’io’d Genera' &cxi? i&jj. Eaeport General Sttxu Jof'W5 ftartog Gokfcwomiy. r±n9 a cfash Che|sea Beede being Human arw seagulls (from lain k: ’ °n%vett. (Photo by Bob Gaskili) ” K,Or51^ BIisco> E||, aY* Amy Po'sberg. Claire Green, �The Hastings Banner - Thursday. Match 12. 2020 — Page 3 CASES, continued from page 1 — Eric Greene is Kellogg Community College chief communication officer. Michigan reports first coronavirus cases in Wayne, Oakland counties Samuel Stanley is president of Michigan State University. Darryl s^®1mMica' officer of Spectrum ^.h MedV’.8"'1 President of Spectrum Heal! dical Group. individual was at work for one school day exploring their options in the event that class­ March 9 and is now under self-quarantine at es need to be cancelled. home for the remainder of the 14-day period Hastings Area Schools Superintendent Dan Health department officials said they believe Remenap said they were awaiting further the risk to students, staff and visitors is mini­ information from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. mal. During a press conference Wednesday eve­ Health department staff have interviewed ning, Whitmer called for the public to remain the school employee and will be in daily con­ proactive and practice good hygiene. She tact during the self-quarantine period and is discouraged individuals from gathering in working with school to minimize the risk of groups of more than 100 people. She called spreading COVID-19. for schools and institutions across the state to People who are not experiencing symptoms consider stemming large gatherings, such as of COVID-19 do not need to be tested at this sporting events and assemblies and called for lime, according to a news release from the colleges and universities to consider moving health department. to digital teaching. The Michigan Department of Corrections Maple Valley Schools is sending parents reported a series of measures being taken to letters asking about their level of internet protect its staff, the prison population and the access. For rural districts where not all fami­ community as the first presumptive positive lies have access to high-speed internet, mov­ cases of COVID-19 have been identified in ing to internet-only classes may be a chal­ the stale. lenge. MDOC officials said that, until further Maple Valley also is looking at ways it can notice, anyone going into a prison facility will continue to provide meals to students if be asked a series of screening questions and school is closed. may have his or her temperature checked '’We want to make sure we can still feed before being allowed entrance into a prison. our kids,” Superintendent Katherine Dertolini This includes all staff, visitors, volunteers and said. contractors. The district is looking at the summer rncal The reaction to COVID-19 is having an program as a possible template. impact on the courts, as well. Response to Tuesday’s confirmation of State court officials announced that hear­ COVID-19 cases in Michigan prompted dis­ ings, cases and trials would be adjourned cussion across the area. upon request of any pirty involved. The issue of disease prevention was raised Some local school district officials are at the Hastings City Council meeting Monday. ••With the «,'onXrUw/nd sinw wc scrvc so much of the P • ®e working on a plan to do everyth 8 n to keep the pub­ lic healthy i".0UrSnf .«•<! our staff healthy," Hastings Public L,brary DirccIor Peggy Hemerlmg l0*d city council. Council member I ncrose Maupin-Moore asked what the council was doing for disease prevention in the city hall “We’ve had someone who was diagnosed with it [COVID-191 four hours away. It’s on its way. It will be here, she said. “I’m just concerned about our staff being sick.” City Clerk Jane Saurman said the city is providing hand sanitizer and anti-bacterial soap in lhe building. “Il’s not just flhout. the coronavirus,” Maupin-Moore noted, it s about any virus, in general. I just want to make sure we are pro­ tecting our staff." Spectrum Health officials Wednesday announced that downloadable materials, trav­ el lips, videos and other information can be found on their website to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. “The disease is now present in Michigan,” Darryl Elmouchi, chief medical officer. Spectrum Health System, and president of Spectrum Health Medical Group, said. “We want to help ease fears and provide our com­ munity with the information people need to prevent this illness from spreading.” County’s compensation commission considers pay hikes ----------- . Rebecca Pierce Editor Some Barry County commissioners are hoping for a pay hike next year. Chairwoman Heather Wing and Vice Chairwoman Vivian Conner were among those asking the county’s Elected Officers Compensation Commission for an increase. 'flic seven-member volunteer commission, which is responsible for setting lhe salaries of the county’s elected officials, is currently con­ sidering changes in pay rates for 14 county elected officials in 2021-22. The commission meets every two years to set salaries. At lhe commission’s March 4 session. Wing and Conner made a presentation, reviewing their responsibilities and time com­ mitments required in their leadership roles. Wing, as board chairwoman, receives a fiat $13,607; Conner is paid $12,607, which is the flat rate paid to all other commissioners. As oilier county employees do, commis­ sioners receive benefits, including mileage. This year, commissioners will receive a reimbursement of 57 cents a mile for travel to and from their meetings, he said. They also are eligible for health insurance. They may choose between four plans offered by Blue Care Network or Blue Cross/Blue Shield. They also may opt for payment in lieu of health insurance. Commissioners receive dental and optical reimbursements of up to $500 per a year. . They receive life insurance and workman s compensation and arc eligible for longevity nav once they have served die county continuou-sly for Hve years or more. Longevity is calculated at $25 per year of serv>ee with a maximum of $600. Retirement pay is a hybrid plan, part defined contribute and part ^Ke^tor' Julie Nakfoor Pratt also asked •XS1""-*-* Dnun''SX.ixsio.tcr Jim Pu« made a presentationCouI1Iy clerk Pamela Atancarlte requjred of her Palmer detailed (.om|Ilission lo consider office and askci ()( |he sa]ancs making a comp- n |ec|cd officials currently iK-inBP-1"1'"." " nt $67,956 this within the county- • ’ year, is among tl’e ()V,‘. lfIljnes comparative The <-,ominiss,on;Iii^ 10 Barry in <lcnio•.tudics of counftc* 5 . . |M) uses compagraphics :i,ld.<x'‘,""'"m\-.considering cost of rable studies in the c > living and other lacu-ts.^ 15 Sheriff Dar came back to ask cent increase two year b • emphasiz«l for another increase »»' > ’ ,n||- ;illd cited lhe importance of his rt.lv lls ■ several laws. $76.867 to $90,616, In 2019, he went liom ~ ** V’S’-'a; • , • < . Vice Chairwoman Vivian Conner spoke with Heather Wing during their presenta­ tion last week. Sarry County Chairwoman Heather Wing addresses the county’s Elected Officers Compensation Commission on March 4. a 15-percent increase, followed by another 2-pcrcent increase that put his pay at $9*> 4*>8 this year. A situation in which a subordinate in the sheriff s oft ice, w orking overtime, could earn more in a year than lhe sheriff prompted that adjustment lo leaf’s salary two years ago In 2018, the commission’s study resulted in across-the-board, two-year salary increases for 14 elected officials. The annual increases amounted to less than $2 XXX) for county com­ missioners, the clerk, prosecutor, and survey­ Other changes in 2018 included: Register of Deeds Barbara Hurless received a 9-percent increase, from $60,415 to $66 6^4 in 2019. Treasurer Susan VandeCiur received a 7-perccnt salary increase from $61,391 tl) $66,196 in 2019. Drain Commissioner Jim Dull received a 5.8 percent hike from $60,415 to $64,142 in 2019Chairwoman Ten Ennetti said serving on the compensation commission is enlighten­ ing. ... . "We take the responsibility of our task seri­ ously. Our task is focused on salaries of elect­ ed officials. The)' arc not represented by a negotiator or union- 1ms commission is it.” The comniiss*on.ls made up of citizens appointed from var’ous pans of t|lc county They are: Enrietti. Steve Buehler. Kim Dufresne, Chris Lap,ns» Karen Ruple, Brenda Schild, and Karen Zwver. "Tliis is die second season I have been involved," Enriett* said, “ft lncels jn even years and the 1°* s.* a^*s *that, from our first organizational the session, we ^vc 451d,md.e B^of,L",akv our rcc' T Tor-Xvem C‘,n’,n,s‘i,oners 1 1 Ur rccom"«"dations. . n,^,1’/, hJT'""? rcC°m' ...Ling al lhc 24" ' a'n’Tuesday. March Forum set for March 19 The public is invited to participate in a community forum at 7 p m„ Thursday. March 19. hosted by the Barry County Board of Commissioners al the Grace Community C hurch in Nashville. The session will provide more details on a potential jail project. County commis sinners are favt,r*”l- U t'acilitv win eventual cap*"? 136 "" cost not to exceed min"" ‘ ", " "-•quest going "’""i^ik-r., / s'"1 " election. laic 11> ।te August manager hot" late the discus"1" ProJ“l 'u. «ill facili- Bridge Magazine Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency late Tuesday after confirming Michigan’s first two cases of the new corona­ virus, an infection disease first found in China and now spreading through the United States. An Oakland County woman with a recent history of international travel and a Wayne County man with a recent history of domestic travel have tested positive for COVID 19 and fre hospitalized, said Dr. Joneigh S. Khaldun, lhe state's chief medical executive. Officials are calling these “presumed” cases while awaiting confirmation from lhe U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Both patients are middle-aged. “It is very likely ysat we will see more cases and that there wilkbc community spread." Khaldun said in a 10’45 p.m. news conference with Whinner at jhe Michigan emergency operations center. .Wc need everyone to do their part to prevent the spread of the disease as much as possible." Khaldun said the stale learned of the diag­ noses hours before the 10:45 p.m. She was unable to detail recent travel by either patient but said local health officials are working to identify anyone who had close contact with the patients for possible testing or monitoring. The Wayne County patient is “currently under isolation," Wayne County Executive Warren Evans said in a statement. “Our Public Health Division is working to identify indi­ viduals who may have come into close contact with lhe patient so we can take appropriate steps and monitor them closely." Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter said the Oakland County Health Division will investigate “circumstances” of the local woman who contracted the virus “so we can understand if there are any potential close contacts." In a late Tuesday televised statement, Whitmer offered what she called “easy" advice to residents: Wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds, touch your face less often, “replace handshakes with elbow bumps” and cover your mouth when you cough. “I know these sound simple, but they work,” lhe governor said. “The main goal of these efforts is to slow lhe spread of lhe dis­ ease. not stop it. Il has moved into Michigan.” Khaldun suggested older residents or those with chronic medical conditions consider postponing long travel, staying away from crowds and avoiding long plane rides. , Declaring a state of emergency will help maximize Michigan’s ability to assist local governments, according to the Whitmer administration. “We will gel through this, but for now, please make sure your families and friends are taking every preventative measure to keep yourself safe,” Whitmer urged. Michigan had already reported more than 470 suspected cases to health officials for monitoring and 124 cases were being actively monitored as of Tuesday. The state listed 39 people as having tested negative before Tuesday evening. In preparation for the potential spread of the virus to Michigan, Whitmer in late February activated a state command center to coordinate with local, state and federal offi­ cials to combat lhe spread of the virus. But state health officials acknowledged then that it has a limited supply of specialized masks and other equipment that will be need­ ed should the deadly coronavirus spread to Michigan. Whitmer announced last week that Michigan’s Medicaid program is waiving co-pays and cost-sharing for testing and health care treatment related to coronavirus. Other insurers announced that they will hilly cover the cost of mcdically-necessary COVID-19 tests. ’The insurers include Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Blue Care Network of Michigan, Priority Health, CVS Health. McLaren, and Meridian. Nearly three-doken Eastern Michigan University students and staff remain in self-quarantine until Sunday over fears of coronavirus after a recent trip to Italy - one of the world hotspots for coronavirus. EMU spokesman Geoff Larcom said they were instructed to stay at home and off campus "It is very likely that we will see more cases and that there will be community spread. We need everyone to do their part to prevent the spread of the disease as much as possible/ Dr. Joneigh S. Khaldun, state chief medical executive until Sunday while they are monitored. He said 33 students, two faculty and two travel guides returned March 1 from a spring break trip that left for Italy on Feb. 21. Italy had more than 9.000 cases and more than 460 deaths as of Tuesday, according to tracking by Johns Hopkins University. There were more than 116,000 cases world­ wide and more than 4.000 deaths according to its tracking. There were 761 U5. coronavirus cases and 27 deaths as of Tuesday, according to track­ ing by Johns Hopkins University. . Meanwhile, a second shipment of coronavi­ rus testing equipment arrived in Michigan last Thursday, expanding the state’s ability to test more people for the virus, a day after the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention further relaxed guidelines on who would be tested. The CDC-developcd kit, which can test 700 to 800 specimens, can deliver test results in about four hours, according to the CDC. The agency previously had limited testing only to sick patients with a travel history to the globe’s most affected areas or who had been in contact with a person with a confirmed case coronavirus known formally as COVID-19/ Developed by the CDC, lhe kit tests nasal and oral swabs samples from a patient with a productive cough. According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Michigan can now test 3(X) or more patients. Even as coronavirus spreads across the globe, confusion continues even among experts over its mortality rate. WHO earlier this week said 3.4 percent of coronavirus patients had died. Coronavirus deaths in China were estimated at 2 percent of those infected. But in South Korea - where more than 100,000 people have been tested - nearly 6,600 have tested positive and 42 have diei That’s a mortality rate of just over 0.6 percent On average, seasonal flu strains kill about 0. i. percent of those infected. Death rates for coronavirus are highest among the elderly and among those witK underlying health conditions like cardiovas­ cular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease and high blood pressure. On the othef end of the age spectrum, very few chib dren under 10 have been diagnosed with it: Most have mild cases. /l Some experts speculate that may be becausi children arc exposed to a range of other coro£ naviruses. including those that cause the com* mon cold, building up antibodies that mav offer cross-protection for the virus. To guard against the spread of coronavirus, MDHHS advises residents to wash hands fre­ quently with soap or use hand sanitizers*, avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands, avoid contact with sick peo­ ple and stay home if sick and contact a health care provider. * In Detroit, officials announced Monday th< city would restore water to residents w ho have had service cut off due to unpaid bills so they can wash their hands to help prevent the spread of coronavirus. The plan would allow’ residents with unpaid bills lo restore water fof a $25 fee and keep their water on during the crisis for $25 per month. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan said the city would keep lhe water on for people who received a notice to turn their water off or artf currently living w ithout waler due to unpaid bills. For anyone living without w ater, Duggan said users should call 313-386-9727 begin­ ning Wednesday. The city said it is also putting a temporary halt on water shutoffs until lhe coronavirus concerns are over. ELECTION, continued from page 1 In Yankee Springs Township, absentee bal­ lot requests increased 25 percent to 572 bal­ lots. Election inspector Marge VanderMeyden says the township ran into some issues with voters who registered in lhe last few days prior to the election. Because of technical glitches, those names did not appear on lhe township’s master list. “ They ended up voting, but it took quite a bit of finagling and work lo get them in there correctly:'VanderMeydcn said. VmderMcyden reported at least five such inu inces as of hiesday afternoon, tour at lhe township h ill location and a fifth at the town­ shin fire station . Palmer reported that a precinct .1,1 Prairieville Township had trouble balancing K election numbers, and that her office is looking into it. "We n-ally do"' k",,w what lh^1V^mh?^k Debra Knight described the Tuesday election as a busy day." good The township experienced steady voter turnout throughout the day. The board of trustees recently consolidated township vot­ ing to one precinct in Delton, closin’1: lhe polling station in Hickory Corners. Knight said they hadn’t experienced any problems, because of lhe change. At lhe left Field Cafe in Middleville, owner Johnny DcMaagd gave away free cookies to anyone who presented a sticker indicating they had voted. As of early alter noon on Tuesday, he had given about “several dozen” cookies. “J think il’s important to gel people out to exercise their civil duly, and what better incentive than fresh-baked chocolate chin cookies?” DeMaapd asked. “We’ve had ih' oven going pretiy much nonstop today ’’ * l he Barry County Board of Canvassen, m,-r Wednesday afternoon to begin ccnitvine th' election results. The process ls cxu^tL , continue Thursday. Palmer said. “ “ �Page 4 — Thursday. March 12. 2020 — The Hastings Banner Did you SC©? Spring rebuild when A male Eastern bluebird gathers dried grasses Wednesday morning in Hastings. It took a few minutes and several readjustments before the bird was able to transport the fibers to a nearby nest box. Wre dedicating this space to a photo­ graph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, ]351 N. M-43 Highway. Hastings. MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Please include information such as where and when lhe photo was taken, who took the photo, and other relevant or anecdotal information. Do you IMF • it remember Gearing up for tourism Banner Feb. 23, 1961 Leaders plan MSU Tourist Institute These four tourist leaders are on the planning committee for the ninth annual Tourist and Resort Institute to be held at Michigan State University April 3-5. They are (from left) Gladys Knight, Extension specialist, MSU Tourist and Resort Service; Mrs. Jean Gould, Trails End Resort, Gun Lake; Aurey Strohpaul, sec­ retary-manager West Michigan Tourist Association, Grand Rapids; and Raymond Johansen, (standing) owner of the Mlchillinda Beach Lodge, Whitehall. More than 250 owners of resorts, food services, motels, cottages, hotels and vacation ranches from Michigan and surrounding states are expected at the Kellogg Center for continuing education at the three-day event. Have you met? Frank “Bud" Frost, 89, is a quiet guy who likes to fish, spend time at the local VFW, and be with friends and family. He was bom March 20, 1930, the third child of Frank and Jessie (Stiles) Frost “in an old tar-paper shack on Kellogg Road in Ionia County" near Prairie Creek. His father was a farmer and his mother a homemaker. His mom died in 1942, at age 36, after having seven children, the last two being stillborn. Like others growing up during the Great Depression, Frost’s family was poor. "Back in the ‘30s we didn’t have nothing,”’ he said. “We [kids] would go down to the creek and take a bath there every day, wc caught fish there ... it was rough going." Frost started his education at the Welch Road School and then went on to the Holcomb School. When his older sister Velma was about to start high school, their mom decided the 4-milc walk to the high school in Ionia was too far. She and lhe kids would move to town, with or without their dad, which they did. moving in with their maternal grandmother. Their dad joined them a few days later. His did then bought a house on Washington Street in the city limits and started working for Hale’s Flour Mill there. Frost’s mother died in lhe house on Washington Street not long after that. Amid difficulties at home, Frost, then 13, soon left home to live with a local family, Bill and June Listcrman. The Listermans offered him a wage in exchange for working and living on their farm. He stayed with them for eight years, working and attending school. He graduated in 1948. While in high school, Frost became involved in 4-H and met a young lady by the name of Alta Mae Farrell. “She used to show hogs at lhe Ionia Fat Stock Show. 1 was about 16 or 17 years old when I first saw her. and I made up my mind that 1 was going to meet her," Frost recalled. “J finally got up enough money to buy an old ‘35 Ford, and I’d go over and see her." They dated for about three years, he said, before marrying Oct. 7.1949. He was 19 and ^^Frosl Started working for the Ionia County Road Commission before enlisting in S. Army in 19-«- His pregnant wife Frank “Bud" Frost was nearly due to deliver when he learned he would be sent to Korea. Fearing he would miss lhe arrival of his first child. Frost wrote to the Red Cross, requesting an extension for more time with Alla. He was given 10 days. If she didn’t have the child, he was to report for duly, regardless. “1 was about lo go ?\W0L.’* Frost said. “And as soon as 1 received lhe news about lhe 10-day extension, she [daughter Susan] was bom a day later, So. 1 got lo sjxmd nine days with her." He served 14 months in Korea with lhe 4()th 223rd Infantry Regiment. He served in combat and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Combat Infantry Badge United Nation Service Medal. He .served six months in the reserves before being honorably discharged Nov. 19. 1953. He returned lo lhe road commission but learned he had a knack for working with heating and cooling equipment. He bought a home and needed to install a home healing unit. /X man delivered lhe unit and told Frost, “1’11 .show you how to pul ii in and if you can show me you can do it, 1’11 hire you.” At first perplexed, Frost borrowed tools from the guy, who turned out to be George Montague of Montague’s Heating and Cooling, and got to work. Montague returned to find the unit installed and running. He hired Frost on the spot and eventually sold the business, which would become Frost’s Healing and Cooling. He and Alta had three children. Susan Rademacher, now 67, lives in Ml. Pleasant; Dennis, 64, lives in Lake Odessa; and Sally Marshall, 61, lives in Greenville. Bud and Alta became involved in lhe Lake Odessa VFW until cancer got the better of her. Alta died Aug. 23. 1987, at age 57. They had shared 39 years of marriage. Frost’s family awards several scholarships through the VFW each year in memory of Alla. • Frank has stayed close to hi* and inends, remains involved with the VFW and loves fishing. He stays mostly close lo home, with an occasional trip up north to a piece of recreational property he owns. He is soon lo ^ee 90 >can» and the most important thing to htm is spending as much time with his loved ones as possible. For his service to his countrv, community The story of struggle lhal rural communi­ lies have waged to hang on to the character of their communities has been told for the last several decades. Many times, as sur­ rounding big-city developers and the mod­ em-tech world have moved in, those stories have not had happy endings, either. Years of suburbanization, big box stores, national franchises, and mega malls within driving distance have left small-town America with empty Main Street store­ fronts, deteriorating infrastructure and little or no appeal for local business entrepre­ neurs or just people looking to move to a quiet, pleasant, and secure community. After all those frustrating decades of employing the latest and greatest strategy to revitalize and foster growth, small commu­ nities may today be on lhe cusp of a true renaissance. Modem communication, highly-efficient travel, and new business models that reward starl-up innovators and entre­ preneurs mean that business today does not need to be located in major metropolitan areas. Business - and life - can be conduct­ ed and lived from almost anywhere. Today, that means people are opting for the quali­ ties that small town America offers. Development is on the upswing, especial­ ly in Hastings and surrounding Barry County. In fact, a housing “mini-boom" is occurring just to keep up with the demand from companies and the people who want to work for them and a chance to live here. Based on national trends, small towns are ideal places for community regeneration. The cost of living and doing business in small towns is usually less expensive than their larger counterparts, such as lhe price of real estate, insurance, childcare, general services and business needs which make small towns ideal for development. At a recent State of the City presentation before the Hastings Rotary Club, Hastings Mayor David Tossava and City Manager Jerry Czarnecki reported: “'Hie state of the city is good." In their presentation, the two city leaders mentioned that the city is busy updating the master plan dealing with down­ town, housing, industry and infrastructure. “The section that is getting the most attention and will make the most impact is the housing section," said Tossava, men­ tioning four proposed housing projects cur­ rently underway that could increase housing stock by 200 to 300 units. Hastings hasn’t had a major housing development since the Meadowstone apartments and pre-manufac­ tured homes project in the late 1980s. That project offered an option for young families wanting to locate to lhe Hastings area and seniors looking to move oul of their homes into high-quality apartments or condos. Currently, most of the new’ housing con­ struction has been in Middleville and sur­ rounding townships. The lack of housing growth in other areas of the county has become a concern because it is impacting our schools, which, in recent years, have seen a decline in enrollment, putting pres­ sure on districts to compete against each oilier for a shrinking pool of students. The interest in our community and the growth it’s generating from eager develop­ ers is a promising possibility. We’ve seen it before, however. And. from the wisdom and foresight proffered by lhe visionary Barry County Futuring Committee in the late 1980s, our community leaders should be cognizant of controlling the growth that we - and not outside developers - see for our future. Back in 1987, big-city developers had grand plans to build on some of the most fertile farmland in the entire state, a vein of soil lhal runs diagonally through Barry County. Don Drummond, who just passed away on Feb. 29. created lhe Futuring Committee and led lhe effort to coordinate that development while maintaining the rural nature of our home. So working together to find a formula for development is a must if we expect to pro­ snvf and still encourage tect what wc have throughout the pie ,O live >n one of our co™ possible upgrades in the down o DDADhirednM^enna and Wigl'tnun.^ Kalamazoo-based consulting finn. P pare a streetscape design includg . sidewalks and street improvements, and invited local business leaders to take part in 'h On^l'arch's^he consultants brought in Robert Gibbs, urbanist and president ot Gibbs Planning Group from Birmingham. Michigan, to discuss what he saw dunng his visit to Hastings, which he described as “impressive." His words should be careful­ ly considered by community leaders as our “renaissance” evolves. “You should really be proud of yourself, Gibbs said. “You built your library down­ town. That’s major. You have a library and a city hall and a cinema. Many of the things that were taken for granted by developers just a few decades ago exist in your down­ town.” “Hastings has great walkability, added Gibbs, which means that residents are with­ in walking distance of key destinations and attractions such as parks, stores, city and county buildings and a public library. Gibbs showed those in attendance exam pies of innovative design and development, explaining the impact good planning and design can have on a community. His remarks were consistent with planning experts who suggest that smart growth strat­ egies make a big difference in how rural communities achieve their goals for growth and development while protecting the rural character of lhe community. Gibbs told audience members that Hastings has lots of opportunity for growth; it just has to be protective of what it has and how' it develops in the years lo come. According to Gibbs, the market for small towns is especially interesting to 25-yearolds and seniors, who are both looking for luxury apartments within walking distance of a “Starbucks and lhe library.” Hastings is the kind of place they want to move to, he noted. "They like real places like this.” Hastings and other small towns through­ out the county have a unique opportunity for growth due to their location near major metropolitan centers, and the existing char­ acter of their communities - wc just need to agree on a plan for the future that will pro­ vide lhe level of growth and sustainability that will attract high quality development. Growth just doesn’t happen and, as we learned in the 1980s and 1990’s from the Futuring movement, growth that’s left up to the developers isn’t always in the best inter­ ests of the community. Good growth should be intentional, with thoughtful planning and strong support in the community. If we expect high-quality, thoughtful development, then wc have to heed lhe words with which Gibbs concluded his pre­ sentation lo the local gathering on March 5: Embrace your history, decide what you want to be and don’t dumb it down." Fred Jacobs. CEO, ■l-Ad Graphics Inc. ggreatest XS iinvsntion. VCr rct'Mved: "ifc... The My automobile i.u'or‘em<>»ie:R-RoL movies Runne'r" CW,00n ",cr! The Road What do you >s that his to,, v vontp what was in his n UntI^ figured oul * u/x-n™1 muZ-T rt,?'<'5 ,J,e someone kHM: think? Here’s your chance to take part in m . lion posed each week by accessinn our w 5n!ctlVe Public opinion noil v , be tabulated and reported ttI()ng °n qUCS' the Lust week: How about pot for potholes? Should the excise taxes raised Elechon We€k: from use of recreational mari­ Michigan votersinNnvWe'9 approved by juana be allocated exclusively 'hat work out® w2s H ®"lber 201B-So hoWd for road repair in Michigan? 7 Tuesdays primary elS®V° CaS‘ ba"°'S in ''• "■I Yes 33% No 66%» ‘ h,u i>“ ----- — ^om. ,,r □ Yes □ No �The H.itfinm Banner - Thursday. March 12. 2020 — Page 5 Future of 4.H fair is ,chs of March 19 meeting Here is the real threat to public health To the editor: As lhe country stares in the face of a corenavirus pandemic, those who remain loyal to the science denier and Liar in Chief will bhndly follow him lo infection. For the rest of us u ho believe in science, we will be the col­ lateral damage. Trump fired the Center for Disease Control > Pandemic Response leant two years □go because, lor no other reason, it was an Obama program. Now he has dismissed the message ot the World Health Organization and health care providers from around the world, employing Hannity and Limbaugh as his mouthpiece, calling the threat just another liberal hoax. Against the advice of health care profes­ sionals who advocate self-isolation if you exhibit symptoms. Trump says you should continue your normal routine, such as going to work, traveling, and being in crowded plac­ es. His advice sets us up for a guaranteed pandemic. : After planting the seed of doubt about the safety of vaccines in a public speech a few weeks ago. now he lies about the possibility of a coronavirus vaccine being available by August. Simply not true. But. in a rare moment of truth, Trump’s chief of staff, when asked if a vaccine would be affordable for all Americans, his response was that drug companies will set the price since they developed it. So, I guess if you can’t afford it. you won’t get it. So much for all of us being in this together as Americans in a time of need. For those of you who accept Trump’s daily dose of lies, you might as well lick a public door handle because what doesn’t kill you will make you stronger. That is. if you survive the kill part first. For the rest of us who believe in science, w e’ll take the advice of the real experts. Chris Lukasiewicz. Hastings (Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. To the fair has Barr)' ^^ntyforaslon;.1’.“ Wnificam part of our co°n > g as J Can rcincrn. bcr. the fair has Ilistorical'h^ family i„tl* '!'‘entered on 4-11 proje'-1'' . |0 N. M.U °ncc 'he fair­ grounds ‘"^i, wonderful b?"d ob,:l'"cd more room.!’ wct(_ udings.grand­ stand. etc !t,ad to be'^*y ■■ '“‘h as admission * . rtilSCd for.k5>c<L camp­ ground fees »U* fairgmunj0 bui,din? and maintenance s, adding more events to me t .- th . • We ha'e.,On^e andw?1' clea"est fair grounds in the fajr . °*e a great deal of gratitude to 1 u members for The cost of ”“'"‘^"‘"8 !he ground and buildings is high and haymg moncv f()r improvements 1 always possible. Currently, there arc mmdlngs m need of new roofs; bathroomsncu P^r and/or updating: and improvements ‘ e ground will become necessary. . In an effort to increase revenue, the fair board wants to partner Mh the Elks and pro­ vide a beer tent. To me. this seems to be a contradiction of what our fair has » ways been focused on: Family time and 4-H kids and their projects. Alcohol has never even hccn allowed on the fairgrounds due to the kids, liability, etc. So now a beer tent? Many 4-H families are opposed to this, but we all understand the need for raising more money. There must be another way. We cannot just criticize the lair board without offering other solutions. I would encourage an)one and everyone wanting more information, or with informa­ tion. or with options, ideas, or recommenda­ tions. to attend the fair board meeting at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday. March 19, at the Expo building. We need to come with open minds, and a willingness to have adult, calm and reason­ able conversations. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. Middle school students compete in I State BPA Leadership Conference ■' I high school, so that students could get assis­ Snvunah Kncchclc tance and have access tn materials needed < Contributing Writer Hastings Middle School students com­ for their competitions,” he said. Carl explained that the preparation pro- ; peted in their first Business Professionals of America (BPA) competition at the fifth cess varied for each student, depending on | annual Middle Level State leadership the event he or she was participating in. | Conference on Friday, Feb. 21 at Davenport Some of the students engaged in studying i for multiple-choice tests, while others prac1 j University. Robert Carl, Career and Technical ticcd presentation and development of a । : Education (CTE) Educator in Computer website design. The open events competed in by the four Science. Cybersecurity. Digital Multimedia Design and Finance at Hastings High students were Business Communication School, explained that the BP/\ is an organi­ Skills Concepts, Business Fundamentals zation that provides leadership and business Concepts, Business Math Concepts, and opportunities for middle school through Computer Literacy Concepts. Tyce and collegiate students who are preparing for Kyla also competed in a team event* However, Carl said the website design careers in the business world. “If taken seriously, it helps quite a bit.” team's score was reduced due to member^ Carl said. “Last year, a couple high school of the team being absent from the conven* lion. • students went to national level.” “Unfortunately, none of the Hastings Carl said he contemplated starting the middle level program when the opportunity Middle Level students placed high enough opened five years ago, but he had trouble to move on to nationals in Washington. D.C^ convincing the other business teacher. J his this May; but this was our first year,and we started out small,” Carl said. “Hastings does year, he was left in charge of the BPA. “1 figured this was the opportunity I was not have business classes at the middle j waiting for, so wc started this year. This is a level, nor business teachers at building, so > great opportunity for middle school stu­ wc were not set up for the best results. I < dents, and a great feeder program into the think the students did OK for the first year, I high school division.” Carl said. “My wife and adjustments will definitely be made for j is the advisor for Hastings Middle School next year to promote student success. 1 1 (Future Farmers of America chapter), and 1 believe all students benefited from the club j have seen what it has done for those stu­ and activities, and I am excited to expand j next year." dents, and for the high school program.” There are no regional conferences for the Along with the help from Carl, eighth-graders Kay lie Carl and Jorden middle level BPA, due to only eight schools Lyke: along with sixth-graders Kyla Brown in Michigan participating in the middle and Tyce Richardson, competed in The level competitions. All students go directly j Workplace Skills Assessment Program to the State Leadership Conference. However, Carl expects that if more schools (WSAP). The WSAP is an opportunity provided by participate in lhe future, the middle level the BPA for students to demonstrate work­ BPA competitions will have regional con­ place skills. There are 26 competitive events ferences preceding lhe stale conferences. “The program has been successful, anef available for middle level students to partic­ the middle level is growing at a much fasteq ipate in through lhe program. Carl worked with the students to help rale than the secondary division.” He saidf । prepare them for the competition. This "Regionals do have benefits, as the compe-; preparation process started around tition would not be as strong as slate level, Thanksgiving, about two months before the and the added events would give the stu­ dents more time to practice and perfect theiq State Leadership Conference. ' “We had weekly hourlong meetings at the craft before reaching state level.” Rebecca C. 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I 4.5.6.7 mghl cru^ti on lhe ! aboard lhe nostalgic St Lawrence anB Ottawa rivers ■ I • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. replica steamboat CANADIAN EMPRESS • - • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • • FREE ESTIMATES! 1-855-909-2254 .1' . — Quebec City, Ottawa, Kingston departures Call now ta request our travel brochure • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. uvxStLawrenceCruiseLines com 1-800-267-7868 753 0-2'.: P Sjts2WKo=::r. 0*1101221 wo*:iu.'« • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Hastings Area Schools ______________________________________________ Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909 Phone (517) 373-3400: 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County) Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov . State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free. 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan gov* U S mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent. 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building. Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich 49503 phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat. 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washinoton n r 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. ’ Gary Peters. Democrat. 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington D C 20510 2202 ohone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Baldina Room 720 1W Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313. phone (616) 23™ ^President's comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress TRANSPORTATION ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT The Hastings Area School System is accepting applications for the pos&on of Transportation Administrative Assistant. Job Qualifications: • High School diploma •Be in good health • Ability toorganizo work, maintain records and make special reports . • Demonstrated ability to work with the public • Must b® ab'° t0 obla,n CDL B with PS endorsement for driving SCt«x>ll’“S Pcrform»n«> Responsibilities: • Coordinate training and licensing of drivers, and maintain reconis for all drivers • Coordinate bus routing, driver assignment, and special driving assignments for the School System • Assist in establishing goals for the transportation | *□ Outfitters Expo ! March 19-22,2020 ■ The Mldwttti Unett Sport 5/iotr tn our 73th year! I Fishing Tackle. Fishing Boats. Fishing Trips 0 Fishing Features! . 1 Frtttr! tf'tj ro-jpsa jt the L:i ctf«e for 52 w Off i A*;:: Mutate. X:t qs&d * I h esupen. he?xcp^!>:t«trp:d. V* u. Krr htHttAHrtha | ■ । 1 UltlmateSportShow.com 1 EamataMMacodBi I । See over 200 Mount* tn the Michigan Tatldermlatt Competition! ■ Hunting sed Archery gear. Food Plot equipment! I * Book flatting 4 hunting trlpa! Meet tho guide* nnd lodge ovrnanl department • Assist m oiner areas of responsibility as assigned by the Transport31*00 Supervisor • Work with multiple phone lines and dispatch information to bus f’e of I I 1 I I I I hrtet tr->v c.-pcn j! tht h x rto* for S2 W C« 1 At-‘I Aai-nv.I h:? Bt’b. i~f < ‘.hr* hweopnMKqrtrd I TX* W«r 1». Vs M* 21 ’-A*’* i . r. ri*s va,i: u*i I UllimateSportShow.com I *2.00 OFF! persons interested in applying for this position must submit a cover leno' a"d resume to: Mr. James Vreugdo Transportation Supervisor 232 West Grand Street, Hastings, Ml 49058 l,m.vreugdc@hassk12.org The deadline for application: Until filled and the Senate: 1-202-224-3141. SCHOOL SECRETARY AT star The Hastings Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Pushed by. Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division o! JAd Graphics Inc. 13 J N m-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 ,.<• 'Phases' ne*S@jndgmphics com • Advertising: ads^Jndgrnphics com News and press _ ________________ ___________________ ______________________ • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • ail • fit Aptrfl Monday Bvcugh Fnrtoy fi 30a.m fo5CQp/n Hank Schooling Scott Ommen Ty Greenfield Mike Gilmore Colleen Egleslon Jennio Yonkur Subscription Rates: $45 jw year in Barry County s50 per year m adjoining counties $55 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER Sor'd ucJrhtf-is chanoc ’• POBoilM HMfc>jri.M!490M01M Seuna Pc.Mj.. Pnid □IHMtnp, Mi 43058 ELEMENTARY Schoo' Vo3' ■*for° d“*s. 7 30 a m. - 4 00 p m S 12 90'.Kiltie. •^g,nnin9 omployee Responsl , General secretanal/clerical duties. Specify abJ J nts to bo determined by the building prindpa1 ls. R Roquire'ne o “u ol good character. Bo in good health Musl ^sch^1 ^Pioma rB,aUons and interpersonal skills . Be . Have g-7 ’ SUNDAY, MARCH 22 • Deers- ? PM • St SfJonv J P.M DAILY SESSIONS THURSDAYS - MONDAYS • 12 PM & 6 PM CLOSED TUESDAYS & WEDNESDAYS Visit FiieKetpcnC4jino.com far detail*. functions and operations of computers aria! skills (i e typing, tiling, telephone. an undS^1''9 01 p°«eiSchool . Hav« a $60,000 SPRING FLING BINGO BASH , Ending 0| the State of Michigan Pupil firekeepers Accountin«9^de|lncs and Wyng for this position must submit u *ntory SchJJru,h« to Amy Srnelkcr, Principal Star ESa omy-sn^?1 J900 Star School Road. Hastings. Ml SdU^J^I ,S’at“k,2 or9 19, 2020 . TIMf 10 CH <0U« V! (<7V ON 1 94 to hrt IG4 | c * »IH o • Avemrf ( h o. ,' Creek, Mt 4^934 .__ Call 269.g45.9554 for Hastings Banner ads �Page 6 - - TnuisiMy. M-.»reh 12. ?0?0 - The HaW SOCIAL security Worship Together MATTERS Social Security is important ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churene. available for your convenience... l ‘ ’ 1 ' ’ \ • . , , CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PC A) 328 N. Jefferson Street Worship 10 a.m Nutsery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616-690­ 8609. FREFPORT BAPTIST CHURCH 380 Counts Line Rd., Freeport, Ml 49325 (269) 760 1928 Paslot Ron. A traditional style of worship, no gimmick*. and friendly people welcome you to worship ut ’an old country church." Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Sunday Worship H am. Sunday Evening 6 pm Wednesday Bible Study and Prayer 7p.m. Give us the pleasure of meeting you! gr ace community 9 . :: » ■■ ; • ' . CHURCH 8950 E M-79 Highway, Nashville. Ml 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe. (517) 852­ 1783. Sunday service 10am. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children's ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry. leadership training. HASTINGS HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 2920 S. M-37 Hwy. (M-37 at M-79) Pastor Kim Mctzer. Phone 269-945-4995. hastingshiipvumc.org hastingshopeumet* gmail. com. Bi welcome YOU ro Join uy Sunday Mornings at 16:30 for worship! Find Us On Facebook! (ti hastingshoprunu. PLEASANTVIEIV FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road. Dowling. MI 49050.’ Pastor. Steve ' Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m ; Sunday School 11 a.m; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. MCCALLUM UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH 5505 Otis Like Rd.. Delton. MI 49046. Phone- 269-6238226. New pastor - Jerald Jones. Sunday Service: 10:31-11:46; Coffee Connection. Nursery. Children’s ministry. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIA INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9.15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month nt this service). 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew Ac Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Huvlwick. The church phone number is 269-795­ 2370 and the rectory number is 269-948-9327. Our chinch website is www.samchutvh org. Wc are part of the Dio.’eu: of the Great lake* which is in communion with The United Episcopal C hurch of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1674 S. State Ku.. HuMine*. Ml 49058 Phone 269-945­ 2285. Sunday morning service time: 10 a in with nursery and preschool available. IJFEG VI E COMMUNITY CHURCH 701 F State Rd.. P.O. Box 273. 1 lasting*. Ml 49058. Pastor Scott Price Phone: >69-948-0900. Website: w wu.lifcgatccc.com Sunday Worship 10 a ni. Wednesday I ife Group 6:30 p in. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd.. P.O. Box 765, (corner of Milo Rd. <kS. M 43), Delton. MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool. (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11:30am. Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 to 7:30 pm. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES .A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange. Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd.. Nashville. Mich. 19073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m.: Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Chib for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastor* David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love “Where Everyone i* Someone Special.” For information call 616-731-5194. GREEN STREF7T UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green St.. Hartings, Ml 49058. Rev. Bryce Feighncr Office Phone: 269­ 945.9574. Email: office. green*treetutnci« gniail.com Sunday, Schedule - The Praise 9:30 a.m. : The Word 10 a nt; The Tabic 10:30 a m. Nursery Care is available through age 4; PreK-8th grade Sunday Schon! It) a.m.; Sunday School for Adults at 11 a.m. Upright Revolt Youth Ministry (6th-12lh grades) 5:30-7:30 p.m. FREE Community Meal every Tuesday at 5 p.m. Refer to Facebook for weather conditions. HASTINGS B APTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn. Hastings. Matt Moser. Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.in. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.: Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday. Family Night 6:30-8 p m.. AWANA (Children Kinderyarten-5fh Grade). 6-30 8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 pin. Bible Study and Prayer. Cal! Church Office 948­ 8004 for information on Mil I (Mothers in Training Together), Sports Ministne*. Quilling.. I ndies Bible Study. WOODGROVEBRErHRK* CIIRISIIAM-ARIS'I for women 4HS7 coats Grove R'1 Randall Bertrand Wheel­ chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:?0 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 am. Youth activities: call lor information. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF HASTINGS Sharing Jesus with our community & ^e world! 405 N M-37 Hwy., Hastings. MI 49058; (269) 945-5463. www.firiltflWU'hhasting*. 9 ajn- Classes and Gatherings for All ages: 9:45 am. Worship (Children’s Worship Offered); 10:45 a.m. Coffee Fellowship; 11:15 a.m. Coffee Talk with Pastor Dan Follow us on Facebook. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main. Woodland. Ml 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Kathy Smith. Sunday Worship 9:15 am HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH ”An Expression Of Who jisus Is To The World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy.. P.O. Box 8, Hastings. Telephone 269­ 945-9121. Email hastfinc^ gmaii com. Website: wwwJiastiJUifKCiDidhodiiUiiin. Pastor Brian feed. Student Ministries Director, Emma Miller. Wor­ ship Director, Martha Stoetzel. Sundays: Nursery and tod­ dler (birth through age 3) care provided. SUNDAY MORN­ ING FAMILY HOUR WELCOMES ALL AGES AND STAGES OF LIFE AT 9:30 a.m. Deep Blue. Loving God. Loving Neighbor Preschool age 3-5th Grade. Live; 6th-l2th Grade. Adult Standard and Adult Elective classes. Coffee Talk: Fellowship Hall. Cookies at 10.05 a m. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. & Children’s Church age 4-4th grade dismissed during service. Youth Group at 6 p.m. 2nd Tuesday: Young Women's Small Group, 6 put Wednesday: Women’s Bible Study 6:30-7:30 pan. KID'S CLUB; Feb. 5th-Mareh 18th. 6:30-7:45 p.m. Thurs­ day: Adult Bible Study 10 a.nt For more information please contact the church or follow us on face b<x>k. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God's Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! March 15 - Worship services at 8 a.m. and 10.45 a.m. Nursery available both services. March 16 - MEF Mtg. 6 p.rn. March 17 Council 6 p.rn. March 18 DEADLINE FOR PASTY ORDERS. Ixnten Luncheon noon, Hastings Nazarcne Church; Lenten Meal 6 p.m.; I-enten Service 7 p.m. Pastor Ken Scheck II. pastorken^! grace-hastings.org. laxation: 239 E North St., Hastings. 269-945-9414 or 945-2645. fax 269-945-2698. www. grace-hastings.org. Facebook: Grace Lutheran Church-ELCA Hastings, ML WELCOME CORNERS UNITED ME1HODIST CHURCH 3185 N Broadway, Hasting*, MI 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services; Sunday. 9:45 a in. Vonda VanTH Sllt M Security ^‘irs Specialist In he 21st ccniury- more «omen work.pay . 1 , cand earn credit toward time in our nation s nn>iu»y- ‘ women face greater economic challenges than L. Joseph Rahn was !>om September 3, 19> I and passed away FebrtW L. Joseph Rahn wQs formerly the head of economic developnienl for the City of Hastings, and Barry t’0Uniy. During his tenure, he procured grant funding from most all departments of ||le Michigan and U.S. government*, amounting to over S5\L This produced S15M jn projects involving inlrastructine, job dislocation programs, a river walk and the Hastings Industrial Incubator. This incubator launched 49 companies and was considered one of the best run incubators in the country. Goverment officials from other cities, stales and countries visited to learn what made it so successful. Governor Engler and Congressman Paul B. Henry both iriTicially commended Rahn on his work for Michigan business development. Additionally, Rahn was hosted in Bangalore, India to present his work at the Asian and Pacific Centre of Transfer of Technology, part of lhe United nations. lor two years he was appointed and served as an examiner for the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, conferred by the President of the United States for Excellence in Business After retiring from Economic Development. Rahn established Lakeland Boatvvorks, Inc., which for 10 years, manufactured wotf-epoxy recreational water cruft in Midd'wiile. Joe and his wife, Barbara, then retihi. u> - Bcav er Kland. Michigan. z r Joe is survived by his wife. Barbara, his mother. Pauline Rahn; his son, Jeremy M. Rahn; sisters. Elizabeth Galiinore and Alison De-nisc. many nieces and great nieces and one great nephew. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 18, 2020 at Zion Lutheran Church of Petoskey, 500 W. Mitchell St, Petoskey, Ml 49770. Memorial donations may be made to the church. Expressions of condolence may be sent to P.O. Box 465, Beaver Island, Ml 49782. Kathryn R|,ca R jed Wednesday. indb'-!' 2020 in Middleville, age 61. She Sh^ ■,"'k “gi,'s ‘""ess l»r >"rs' . Rapids sh^"1 Jan“an <’■ l‘»9 ",,Gra^ I ids. She was a retY.i nrin.irvr and a job sl,c fou Sv «a; fri.lR|lni her y I^ws. latn’b. and li'e"'eie her lifil|i'’''' 4 Kathy w.'fvl'1,,8v.-uconil'aa"’"' . .... parents, |)r ' r ' <lless)I;iXGord"-l M. and Joan Grace This injomation on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, lhe i hutches and these local businesses: (l^a>''Hn"‘ei'^ b> <4 Ode. !’■’ W'-aMt, 1,J Htiltvchtld and !• -. . .. Hastings 945-9554 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 HASTINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY SCHEDULE Marriage ficenses bt*'- Finnic I11- ni|t| ' Gra"Jlau..eh^ 1699 W. M43 Highway. Hastings. Ml 49058. 945-4700 Bernard L. Killinger, long-time resident of Hastings, devoted lather, loving husband and Security is vitally important to women. blessed child of our Lord Savior Jesus If you’ve worked and paid taxes into the Christ, was called home Friday. March 6 at Social Security system for al least 10 years Thornapple Manor. He was 92. and have earned a minimum ot 40 work cred­ Bernie was Lx>m August 20th, 1927 in its. you may be eligible for your own benefits.. Shanagolden. WI, a small village near the Once you reach age 62. you may be eligible town of Glidden. As a teenager, “listening to for your own Social Security benefit, whether God’s call” as he termed it. he entered the you’re married or not and whether or not your, seminary in Canton. Ohio at Brunnerdale spouse collects Social Security. If you re ch-Seminary' High School. After a careful gible and apply for benefits on more than onj£ consideration of his life's journey with work record, you generally receive the higher family and friends he moved to Owosso, Ml benefit amount. where he graduated from Owosso High The sooner you start planning for retire­ Schoo) and married Maxine Gurden also ment, lhe better off you'll be. We have specif­ from Owosso in February' of 1951. For a ic information for women at socialsecurity., time they stayed in Owosso during which gov/people/women. Email or post this link to their daughter Kathleen and son Timothy friends and family you love. were bom. In I960. Bernie moved the family Vonda VanTH is the public affairs specialist to Vermontville, where Bernie worked at for West Michigan. You may write her c/(p. Michigan Magnetics. Soon after, they moved Social Security Administration. 31)45 Knapp to Algonquin Lake outside Hastings where sons Thomas and Buck were bom. He retired NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email ttjr vonda .vanfil@ssa .gov. from Michigan Magnetics in 1986. and later worked for J-Ad Graphics. Bernie loved to write. In 1945, he wrote “The Bells of Brunnerdale”, an autobiography of sorts that detailed his journey to become a priest and his time at lhe seminary between 1940 and 1944. In 2012. lhe book was finally republished. Most recently, he wrote or co-wrote other family works such as "Sibling Reveries” and "Talcs From Under’the ’Texas' Tred” - both telling bygoneir'siirifidk 'lit 'lanrily. lost' to ’ time...’Come, reminisce along With nit.’ ----- ■■ -_ ----------------------------------____ With you I’ll share my reverie. Lei’s live again the distant past, those years that flitted Friday, March 13 - preschool story time, by so fas!.* 10:30-11 a.m.; teen advisory board meets,4-5 p.m. Throughout his life. Bernie dedicated himself to the church and since 1963 was a Saturday, March 14 - Reptiles from Societymember of Saint Rose Catholic Church. But of Herpetologists, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. it was his time at Brunnerdale lhal stayed Monday, March 16 - Quilting Passions, 10 with him his whole life and helped develop a.m.-1 p.m.. Lego club. 6-8 p.m.; murder lhe wonderful man we have all come to mystery group, 6-8 p.m. know and love. In the Foreword from "The luesday, March 17 - toddler time, 10:30Bells ol Brunnerdale” he wrote; IJ a.m.; Great Decisions - televised: Artificial "With love and gratitude, 1 dedicate this Intelligence and National Security, noon-1 little book to my wife Maxine, who now­ p in ; Great Decisions Foreign Affairs lives with God. And to my children, Discussions, 1:30-3:30 p.m.: mahjong club, Kathleen Marie, Timothy Janies, Thomas chess club, and euchre. 5:30 p.m. Joseph and Bernard Jr. who individually and Wednesday. March 18 - acoustic jam ses­ collectively are ‘The Great Amen’ to my sion, 5-7:30 p.m. happy vocation.” Thursday, March 19- Baby Cafe. 10 a.mAs a true renaissance man, Bernie loved noon; Novel Ideas Book Club. 12:30-2:30 playing the organ during mass, played the p.m.; Movie Memories and Milestones piano and lhe violin and taught himself to "Movie Buff Awards” followed by 1961 film play the hammered dulcimer. During his starring Deborah Kerr. Peter Wyngarde and retirement years he enjoyed painting, was a Megs Jenkins. 5 p.m. master at crocheting and knitted some More information about these and other spectacular afghans for family and friends. events is available by calling the library, 269­ Bernie was preceded in death by his wife 945-4263. or visiting the website hastingsMaxine (2007) and his son Thomas (2015). publiclibrary.org. He is survived by his sister. Mary Elizabeth Weeks of Tucson, AZ; brothers, Louis Kenneth of Midland. Tony of Midland, TX; daughter, Kathleen Shay of Hastings; sons, Timothy of Glen Allen, VA Bernard (Buck) of Melfa, VA; seven grandchildren - Jeremy Flanigan of Sheridan; Jennifer Jockheck of Ionia; Jason Flanigan of Yorktown, VA; Ryan Shay of Hastings; Joshua Killinger of London-UK; Jordan Killinger of Ionia, Sara Vaicekauskus of Kalamazoo and 14 great-grandchildren. Family will happily receive visitation for the public on Thursday, March 19, from 5-7 Fmik r|B-Cn uk‘l A1“dics "• Elk,on-1:>- »"d p.m. at Girrbach Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday St. Johns March 20. 2020 at St. Rose Catholic Church J-dd Conri’htPhillip in Hastings, with burial at Riverside Cemetery immediately following. AIKss, ’rhon,,on- Middleville and In parting and celebration of this man’s K«hr Veni"-'"is. Middleville wonderful life, may it be said in Bernie’s I yndi M2 J v'eS lnSn,ll;«». Wav land and voice through the ages; "Corpus Domini ‘■y'^ManeVanBennekom.Waykmd nosln Jesu Christi, custodial animam tuam in v iuim eternum. Amen.’ ": -i'<er.KS 'Wm (Ka.en Hlinie and "epltews kk!paul> Hau-'oWSu"»'el Hni ;c'>*elk- |.inllie. R>‘h> 1 ’ ■'untie. 1351 North M-43 Hwy. men do in retirement. Nearly 55 percent of the people receiving Social Security benefits are women Women generally live longer than men do. while often havi.m lower lifetime earnings. And women usually reach retirement with smaller pen­ sions ‘and other assets, compared to men These are three key reasons why Social En,,n.1,1,,e| FpPS. ■ enui Street h ?i1;tl ChttnJ1 ’ , . 4 GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY’ byOirt’«l>f^S ^°st.nit-e P'ovtded k *•’1 II. ■’me. ----------------------1^4for more information. �Thw Hastings Banner — Thursday. March 12. 2020 — Page 7 Street repair project prompts questions from council Savanah Kaechelc Contributing Writer Approval of a $85327 bid fmm a Asphalt Inc. to resurface State A‘ . Broadway and South M^eh£ a£±S Public Serves Mat. Getgen^ one of them. was But council member Don Bowers w™ dered about the choice of streets being resur“Is South Hanover on the list at all’" Bowen asked. “If, rvc ask >• to be looked at and taken care of for seven S=rc - W°n ' VOte f<>r any,hing Un,H you «CI ’™$ “1US‘ °nC ‘"’j."'" Ger8cn said b,,crWe re also going to do more road projects swlinr WhlCh 8°ing'° ** <*iP This is the only mill and repave project scheduled for this fiscal year, he noted “This is the before-July projects,” council member Brenda McNabb-Stange added. The bid was approved, with Bowers casting the lone dissenting vote. But the issue came up again in the meeting during comment time: ‘ I m just wondering how we select the streets, Bowers said. “I mean, obviously, we aren’t selecting the worst ones first.” Jim James, street superintendent with the " * department of public services, said a variety °f information is taken into consideration, such as traffic, condition of the street, funding source, and whether it’s a major street. In other action, lhe council approved a $ 15.800 proposal from Hubbell, Roth & Clark that will allow the DPS to meet requirements set by the state's administrative consent order as the city continues its plan for upgrades at the wastewater treatment plant. "Part of die ACO is implementing the head­ works upgrade, and that’s already scheduled.” Gergen said. "In addition to that, it also includes further assessment of equipment; coming up with a plan, budget, schedule for upgrades; and additional equipment is required." Council member Bill Redman asked which account would be tapped for the $15,800 needed for the cost of the services. Il will not be from the bond, Gergen said. It will be paid out of the city’s water and sewer fund. Included in Gergen’s report on lhe waste­ water treatment plant was work that has already begun there, regarding internal quali­ ty control. An update also has been made to the non-domestic user list, which is used to identify potential mercury sources. Construction for the plant upgrades is expect­ ed to begin this year. In other action, the council was asked to consider authorizing staff to work with Neo Network and draft a partner agreement on the management and regulation of the distributed antenna systems and small cell equipment. McNabb ,s made. “| h the issue after a Xk they ar, “ bi8 <>bjcc rim. io this'"!. 01 ^ng rurally truthful will' '* jpesn t scein to. Neo Ne’*0* benefit of PWncring with the city 1 p3ny is not publlc- she said, and the £ also e, the profit proi*?’' enough timc '*’* «>ncems about n"0"' iement. esp^ re*ew the rPO’.Cien.p’bcl’l’?Si,,8 b'uc " doesn t f*cn’ irt» jumping th,. „ , "I think "c ‘ ^process, ty Pln here." she said. •■We’w•.vC w pec,p|e 8« a pack­ et that we u»n P We ve got our ft<Afier hca''"^ p^ur s Aments, the motion Pll t votes, p ev^n members present castcd n nc,! members Don Smith andJ>m > uc, City Manager Je 1 vz”neckt also was absent. comment n . During Pub ,nCilofasiM, CIly resident informed the co1 Washinm^ prob’cin *n an area along S,Lthat son?£10n S,rcc>- The resident e«PllUI’C^|)ich is?”"' seen,s 10 be feeding the cats. . hbon Sln£ a Problem for her and other . Three to c,Ph* ^htin th.Cighl 10 15 cats, appear each t c ttsident’s yard, resulting in an excessive amount of fecal mat­ ter in her yard. f Another Washington Street. Dr. Robert Bercicr. aUcndcd (hc meet■ng to support the cla.m "On a regular basis. 1 sce anywhere Kendall Place plan OK’d by council Savanah Kaechelc Contributing Writer The final site plan for Kendall Place, a 45-unit multi-family housing project, was approved Monday by Hastings City Council. Questions concerning parking were once again on the table during the City Council meeting when Kevin Moore, of Moore & Company, presented the plan for the housing project to the council. "We continue to look toward making the project belter, even after some of the com­ ments made at the planning commission," he said. Density, setbacks and parking aspects of the site plan had been brought up during the planning commission meeting by consultant Rebecca Harvey. After much discussion, the site plan was approved by the planning com­ mission, which noted the three issues raised by Harvey. Council member Brenda McNabb-Stange wondered about visitor parking, considering that only one parking space is allotted lo each unit. Moore answered that Court Street has public parking available, "Except overnight, in the wintertime." McNabb-Stange said. "So, no one can slay overnight in the winter lime then?” “All we can do is gather data from other projects that are similar to ours," Moore said. He used a development in downtown Grand Rapids as an example of how the parking lot is often not completely full for buildings using lhe 1:1 ratio for parking spaces per unit rented. “We have lo get to the point where this is economically feasible. Otherwise, we arc just building parking lots," Moore said. “I do understand that, and I want it to be economically feasible as well, but the issue is that you’re dealing with a small town here, not the big city where there’s buses every­ where,” McNabb-Stange said. She expressed her concern for how people living in lhe building will be transported with­ out cars, considering the lack of transporta­ tion options in the city of Hastings. Moore replied that each of the develop­ ments they have gathered data from, seem to have different results regarding the parking space ratio. "Parking and how you arrive at the ratio is not exactly a perfect science," he said. Another issue, noted in the final site plan by Haney, was the setback line. McNabbStange was concerned by this as well. “I have a bigger problem with lhe location of the building," she said. “1 ,ike buiJd ings right up to sidewalks. She pointed out that motorists have to inch out into the sidewalk to see around the build­ ing, which can be dangerous for the drivers -- and the pedestrians. Mayor David Tossova asked Dave Hatfield, Planning Commission chairman, to respond to that comment. “Actually, the zero-lot line was a request that we made to them because, if you’ll look at the way the zoning has been structured along State Street, we are trying to make Slate Street look like downtown," he said. “Downtown has zero setbacks.’’ McNabb-Stange restated her concern for the safety of the drivers and pedestrians regarding the zero setback. "They did what we asked them to do, as wc have asked other building owners down there to do exactly the same thing," Hatfield said. "We are trying to extend lhe connectivity between dow ntown central and the near west side." . When the final site plan was approved by the council, McNabb-Stange cast the only no vole. between 20 and 7S 25 Icatd [cat*] out mv my side winwin­ dow.” he said. He explained that along with the population problem, the cats are also a health issue. Toxoplasmosis, a disease acquired from expo­ sure to infected cal feces, is a present risk due to the stray cats. “I rebuilt my deck. Wound up with an eye infection because of all lhe fecal matter that s underneath my deck.” he said. “So. for me it was a health problem, let alone every body else." Mayor Dave Tossava replied. “I’ll get with the chief of police, we’ll talk to staff, and even talk to animal control and see what they can do.” In other httsines'i, the council: -Approved a budget adjustment of a $25200 increase in the library’s building repair and maintenance account allowing repairs lo the building and the heating, venti­ lation, and air conditioning system. -Approved a request from Kim Martin, business manager at the Barry County Chamber of Commerce, to hold the ninth annual Hastings Gus Macker 3-on-3 basket­ ball tournament in downtown Hastings. The tournament will be July 10,11 and 12. Martin said they saw a 15 percent increase in teams hist year and another increase is expected this year. -Approved a request from Megan La veil, executive director of the Thomapple Arts Council, to solicit donations at the Thomapple Plaza and spray plaza during lhe program season. A donation bucket will be carried through the audience at the Hastings Live concerts, a bucket sitting out at the spray plaza, and merchandise and tickets sold at the jazz festival. Lavel! said all donations go back into supporting the program. -Approved lhe final site plan, recommend­ ed by the planning commission, for properties 400 \V. Slate St. (current site of Hustings Pharmacy) and 410 W. State St. The site plan includes the demolition of the building at 410 W. Slate St. and merging the two properties to allow an extension to the building housing the pharmacy. An entrance off State Street will be made wider than lhe current entrance. ‘ -Scheduled two public hearings for 7 p.m. March 23. Both hearings will focus on possi­ ble ordinance changes, one regarding regula­ tion of wells in the city and lhe other on the expiration date for the prohibition on marijua­ na establishments. -Approved $18,956 in repair costs for the Bandit Woodchipper. During a tree clearing project at Bliss Park, a reinforced rod con­ cealed by a tree entered the wood chipper and caused damage to the machine. It is estimated to take two to three weeks to repair the machine. "There is not a tree brunch or tree that’s taken down in the city of Hastings where the chipper doesn’t show up as part of that proj- Gergen said. "It’s a Very very important p>c< piece ect.” Gereen of equipment for us.” -Received an update in the DPS, including new proposals from Hubbell, Roth and Clark regarding the Rutland special assessment dis­ trict sidewalks project. McNabb-Stange asked why the council was back-tracking on tire project "How many times do we have to do this before wc get it done?" she asked. "That’s been in front of the joint planning commission and the biggest issue has been {Michigan Department of Transportation J changing their requirements/’ Dave Hatfield, chair of the city’s planning commission and the JPC. said. "We thought [wc hadj a plan approved by them and we are moving forward with it, and then they reneged on the approval and came back with a whole other set of stan­ dards." -Received a report from library' director Peggy Hemcrling, including news on March reading month. The theme is "Wild about Reading." Corresponding with the theme, the Michigan Society of Herpetologists will host Reptile Day at the library Saturday. March 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. -Conducted the first review of two ordi­ nances. One is regarding rezoning of property at 1500 Star School Road from D-2 to planned unit development. The second ordinance is for tax exemption in the form of a service charge in lieu of taxes for Kendall Place, a project for low-income persons and families. Both ordi­ nances w ill be reviewed again at the next city council meeting. -Expressed their appreciation for the department of public services, and the entire city staff for their work. -Was informed by council member Al Jarvis of his decision lo seek re-election to the 1st Ward seat. "The last council meeting I made an announcement that I wasn’t going to run for city council. I had a lot of people come up to me and ask me to change my mind,” he said. Various members commented on his deci­ sion. "1 want lo thank Al because I really appre­ ciate him doing that." Mayor Dave Tossava said. "He’s a valuable member of this board." "I’m tickled to death to hear that Mr. Jarvis has changed his mind and is going to run.” Bowers added. "He’s a valuable part of this council." -McNabb-Stange clarified a comment attributed to her in the Hastings Banner: “In light of comments in the paper. I guess for the last two council meetings. 1 feel a clar­ ification may be due: The statement that 1 harped on the city about gelling plans was not intended to be .about lhe IT (information tech­ nology], it was about the roads,” she said. The next city council meeting is scheduled for March 23 at 7 p.m. in council chambers at the city hall. ST. ROSE OF LIMA PARISH MISSION Call any time to place your Hastings Banner classified ad 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON ORDINANCE NO. 590 TO EXTEND THE EXPIRATION DATE OF PROHIBITIONS ON MARIHUANA ESTABLISHMENTS The Planning Commission will hold a Public Hearing for the purpose of hearing written and/or oral comments from the public con­ cerning lhe extending of the expiration date f nrohibitions on marihuana establishl.nts to May 31, 2021. The public hearing ]ie|j at 7:00 PM on Monday, April 6, ..] onon in City Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall. 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. All interested citizens are encouraged to attend “dl" submit (this information is available for public A copy of 'o'8’00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday inspection from office ()f city C|erkf 201 ‘hr° SUte Street. Hastings, Michigan 49058. NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry’ County Board of Commissioners held March 10, 2020, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. Barry County Parks & Recreation Commission Request for Proposal Historic Charlton Park Playground The Barry County Parks & Recreation Commission is seeking proposals from a licensed landscape architect and/or planner for the design and site plan development of a playground area at Historic Charlton Park. For further information or to request a copy of the RFP, please contact the Parks Commission Office at 269-945-3775 or parks@barrycounty.org. «nd serVoreoOU45 2468 or TDD call relay services Clerk at 269.94->^ 800.649.3777. janeM-Saurman City Clerk I.W66 March 23-25, 2020 • 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. 'J£A£E TO FACE WTTHJESUS Karlo Broussard is a nationally-known speaker giving talks on biblical studies, theology, and philosophy. He is one of the most dynamic and gifted Catholic speakers, communicating with precision of thought, a genuine love for God, and an enthusiasm that inspires. Karlo has published articles on a variety of subjects in Catholic Answers Magazine, is a regular guest on Catholic Answers Live, and is an active writer for Catholic Answers Magazine Online at catholic.com. Karlo holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in theology from Catholic Distance University and the Augustine Institute, along with master's in philosophy with Holy Apostles College and KARtf) BROUSSARD Seminary. Monday, March 23, 2020 - 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. “This is My Body": Understanding Jesus' Words at the Last Supper Followed by Adoration and Benediction Tuesday, March 24, 2020 - 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. IVh.tt the Early Church Believed About the Eucharist Submission deadline is April 17,2020 at 4 p.mt Barry County Community Dialogue Event T5h56? Followed by Adoration and Benediction Wednesday, March 25, 2020 - 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Eucharistic Miracles: Evidence ot the Real Presence Followed by Adoration and Benediction Purpose: Discussion for Potential Mil|agQ E|ectjon August 2020 The public is invited to participate in a third discussion hosted by the Barry County Board 0( Commissioners. TowerPinkster of Kalamaz00 wi|. facilitate the discussion. The topic is a continuation of the previous forums, for the Barry County Jail and Sheriff's Office and the Commission On Aqino facility m Hastings. Specifically, the potential scone and cost for a Potential MiHa9° Election Auqust 2020. Information will be shared and public feedback and input Is invited. •n nrovide necessary reasonable aids The City will Pr0 fiv(, days notice to the City 805 South Jefferson, Hastings, MI Date/Time: Thursday, March 19, 2020 at y;00 pM You are also invited to AsasperiMbenefitKa^^^^^ discussions on topics related to tinThe |uncheons will be held in the meet Karlo tn person and a. 9 Church Lunch will be provided.T here community room under St. Rose course is no cost - good will offerings are welcome, of course. You are welcome to attend one or both luncheon discussions: Tuesday, March 24, 2020 - noon to 1:30 p.m. L.ocation: Grace Community Churcb Wednesday, March 25, 2020 - noon to 1:30 p.m. 8950 E M-70 Nashville, Ml 49073 B Questions ploas® 5,'q.„ Barry County Administrat'00 ’ ' 9‘,5’12ft4 PLEASE RSVP to StR0seParishMis5i0n@grnail.com with the date(s) and number attending Aquonmiolthg 0oMdalpresMt �1? 2070 — The Hastings Banner Page 8 — Thursday, March iz, w- u Spectrum offers virtual screenings for COVID-19 - ' ' ’ ’ “The virtual screening visit will let peo­ ple know if they need further evaluation." During the virtual vrico visit, individu­ als will be asked a scries of questions about their condition by a Spectrum Health provider who will advise whether they need to seek additional care. The patient may select the caregiver of their choice if they need further evaluation. It is not necessary tp be a Spectrum Health patient to use the service and receive lhe free screening. Spectrum Health is offering this service to all resi­ dents in the state of Michigan. The Spectrum Health COVID-19 hotline is Spectrum Health is offering screening for lhe novel coronavirus COVID-19 to those who have sjmptoms and may be concerned they have the virus. -We want to provide a community health service for people who may have symptoms and are concerned about the virus, while allowing them to stay at home and prevent the spread of illness.” Darry l Elmouchi, chief medical officer at Spectrum Health System and president of Spectrum Health Medical Group, said. "The first step is to call lo schedule a free virtual screening visit through our Spectrum Health Now service. (616) 391-2380. tC’OVlD-19. For more information ab°ump(Ofns and including information on heaHh.org/ prevention, visit www.spcctru covid 19. app gives 'Die Spectrum Health Nharv. provider consumers access to a healthi joWjng directly from their smart d* ’a virtuaj them to schedule and jjcine is typivisit all in one place. ^^^^Lajtions such cally used for low-acuity c0 {h(. nu ’Hie as rashes, sinus problem* G . has been free COVID-19 virtual serve"1 *b* * (hij. added to its offerings spW> public health situation. Hastings schools present data review to ISD board • ' Jessica Courtright Contributing Writer Hastings Area Schools’ Assistant Superintendent of Achievement Matt Goebel presented a data review of lhe "Multi-Tier System of Supports” to the Barry intermediate , School District Board of Education al its March 10 meeting. Bany ISDSuperintendent Richard Franklin noted that MTSS requires that school systems io update their local intermediate schools on ’ these programs every year. "The purpose of the district data review is to engage in continuous improvement through educated decision-making through data ‘ reviews.” Goebel said. "'Die Hastings Area School System performs data reviews three times a year for all students and four to six times a year for students who arc struggling.” Goebel highlighted some accomplish­ ments: Hastings has performed followup training for functional behavioral assessments and behavioral intervention plans. ; . They have been working on this plan for die past two years, he said. Literacy coaches are working to develop an intervention grid that is progressive, he said. They are aiming to get students the supports they need based on their grade level. Hastings also is working on implementing "individual reading improvement plan” meet­ ings. On a local level, all districts in lhe United States are responsible for implement­ ing IRIPs. In Hastings schools, teachers and staff members, working with students in kin­ dergarten through third grade, identify stu­ dents who are reading well below their grade level and then implement interventions. Interventions can include after-school tutor­ ing and how the school provides title services. All their schools have implemented small group behavior intervention, he said. Hastings recently implemented a program called Child Safety Matters, which is intended to help students understand cyberbullying, bullying, and sexting and, for younger stu­ dents, it includes information like "good touch, bad touch, and stranger danger." Goebel said. Goebel ended his presentation, saying “even though we are kind of beacon in regards to other districts \n l\; t Michigan who are implementing M loo, ne school system still needs to improve, fine­ tune and maintain its MTSS program for a few years to move up to the top level of the program. In other action, lhe Barry ISD board: • approved and authorized payments in general fund expenditures totaling S2O3.O87, special fund expenditures of 488228, and trust fund expenditures of $47. • hear that ISD Director of Early Childhood Services Shannon Everett is resigning to accept a post with the Michigan Department of Education Great Start office. Franklin said he will handle some of those duties until lhe opening is filled, but that will not happen immediately. The intermediate district will contract out for an Early Childhood specialist, he added. Franklin said he has already reached oul to lhe Calhoun ISD. OFFICE OF THE BARRY COUNTY DRAIN COMMISSIONER NOTICE OF DAY OF REVIEW OF DRAINAGE DISTRICT BOUNDARIES AND REVIEW OF APPORTIONMENTS DATE: March 24, 2020 sDocfor Universe Sinkholes not so sudden Dr. Universe: What is a sinkhole? What causes one? Kalhrine. 12. Calgary, Canada Dear Kalhrine, Sinkholes can be scary to think about. They don’t happen loo often, but when they do, they can take people by surprise. Solid ground disappears, and a hole '•uddenly appears. It mighl seem like sinkholes appear out of nowhere. Bui they actually need specific conditions to form. To have a sinkhole, you first must have a cave. "You can think of a sinkhole as lhe end of the life cycle of a cave.” Kurtis Wilkie explained. He teaches geology at Washington State University. He is very interested in how Earth’s features form over long periods of lime. A lot happens underground that we can’t see. Soil and rock layers lie beneath our feet. Water flows around them, shifting and moving these layers. With the right type of rock, enough water, and a lot of time, a cave can form. Wilkie said caves often occur in rock called limestone. Limestone is made mostly of calcium carbonate (the same substance that makes up seashells.). Limestone isn’t a strong type of rock, it’s full of tiny cracks. They’re hard to see. but big enough for water to run through. Lots of contact with waler can make those gaps get bigger. Over lime, the limestone dissolves and breaks apart. This process is called erosion. As the rock dissolves, empty space gets left behind. Eventually, that space gels big­ ger and bigger until a cave forms. This happens extremely slowly, much longer than any human's lifetime. •We re talking not just thousands of years, maybe millions of years. Wilkie Laid. "Il’s not as if you start the process now and then 10 years or 100 years from now you have a eave. It takes a very Jong ume. Most caves remain caves. But if water continues to interact with limestone, it can continue to slowly erode. The cave s root can become too weak to hold the heavy ground above it. If the roof collapses, the ground above it falls through. That’s how a sinkhole happens, and part of the cave comes to an end. . A sinkhole is the end of a cave’s life—but not every cave’s life. Most caves never col­ lapse or turn into sinkholes. A sinkhole only happens if lhe cave's roof becomes too thin and unsupported. Humans can cause sink­ holes lo happen more than they would natu­ rally by pumping water from underground, reducing support for the ground above. Sinkholes happen more in some places than in others. You might hear about sink­ holes in Florida, an area w ith lots of lime­ stone. But here in Washington State, where I live, other types of rock abound. So. sink­ holes are very rare. The odds of the ground collapsing beneath you arc very small. You’re much more likely lo gel to visit a cave someday. And if you do. you can look up at its walls and remember the forces that shaped it. All it takes is a special rock, a lot of water, and plenty of time. Dr. Universe Doyon have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University’s resident scientist and writer at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu or visit her web­ site , askdnmii erse.com. e TIME: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. LOCATION: YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP HALL 284 N. Briggs Road Middleville, Ml 49333 QUESTIONS: (269) 945-1385 The Day of Review is an opportunity to review the Drainage District boundaries and apportionment of benefit for the Drains listed below with the Drain Commissioner or a staff member. Maps of the proposed Drainage District boundary revisions can be found on Barry County's website at: www.barrycounty.org A licensed professional engineer has recommended lands be added or removed from the Drainage Districts. Ageneral description of the lands by section number proposed to be added or deleted from the Drainage Districts is as follows. Drain Name Municipality Portions of Sections Added Portions of Sections Removed Bray Drain Orangeville Township 8, 17, 18 7,8 Chalker Drain Orangeville Township 8, 9, 16 8,9 Clem Drain Orangeville Township 8,9, 16, 17 8, 17 7. 17. 18. 20 Orangeville townsnip 2. 3.4.9-11. 14-17. 20-23/25-29. 32-35 Prairieville Township 3,4 Creek Drain Deal Intercounty Drain Orangeville Township 19, 20. 29, 30 19,20 Duncan Lake Intercounty Drain Thomapple Township 17, 19, 20, 30 s- 8. 17,19, 20,30 Finkbeiner Drain Thornapple Township Fish Lake Drain 7, 8, 17, IS 7,8 2, 3,4,9-11, 14-17, 20-23. 25-29. 32-35 3,4 16,21 Orangeville Township 2, 10, 11, 14, 15, 22, 23, 25-27, 31­ 35 -1,31,32 Orangeville Township Prairieville Township Prairieville Township 3, 4,6 6 Thomapple Township 31,32 3>.32.33 Yankee Springs Township Orangeville Township 4,6.9, 15. 16, 22, 27. 34. 35 7. 16-18 4>6-*9*. 15,34 Orangeville Creek Intercounty Drain Orangeville Township 7.8 Prairieville Township 2-4, 9-11, 14-18, 20-23, 25-29. 32-35 3.4' Reno Intercounty Drain Orangeville Township 19, 29-32 Gun River Intercounty Drain Livingston Drain Town Drain No. 3 Williams Lake Drain Wilson Intercounty Drain Yankee Springs Township Yankee Springs Township Thornapple Township 15, 16,21.22 15, 16, 22,27, 28 7jklR Z 2Q~~ '5.16 20,21 _____ 18, 19,30 The Drain Commissioner, engineers, and/or other staff members will be available to assist individ i day and make revisions where necessary. There is no need to schedule an appointment for a ?a s ^roughout the Day of Review. The computation of costs for the Drains listed above will also bo available at the ry c^c lime on t^e assessments are collected in the same manner as property taxes and will appear on your winter^ °f ^eview. Df3’n sessmenls are being collected for more than one (1) year, you may pay lhe assessment in full with a bill< lf drain aS' at any time and avoid further interest charges. any interest to dat0 307 E Green SL. Ste. 1 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269)948-2003 Will your money last as long as you do? What do your fellow citi­ zens fear most? Almost half of them - 49% - arc most afraid of running oul of mon­ ey during retirement, a high­ er percentage than the 44% whose chief concern is failing health, according to a recent survey by Aegon Center for Longevity and oilier groups. What steps can you take lo help ensure your money will last as long as y ou do? I lere are a few suggestions: • Estimate your longevity. None of us can say for sure how long we’ll live. However, you can make some educated guesses based on your health and family history .And once y ou do have al least a ballpark figure, you can then determine about how much money you may need to last lhe rest of your lifetime. A word of cau­ tion: It’s probably going lo be more Ilian you think. Health care costs alone can run into the hundreds of thousands, even with Medicare. • Determine when you'll netirv. Your retirement age will have a big impact on how long your money can last. The longer you work, the more you can contribute to your retirement pl.ins, such as y our IRA and 40!(k). Plus, il you have health insurance through work, you should lx: able to cover some of the out of pocket health care costs you’d normally have to pay if you’re Persons with disabilities needing accommodations for effective participation in the Day of Review k Drain Commissioner's Office at the phone number listed above (voice) or through the Michigan rIi uld contactthe (TDD) at least 24 hours in advance of the Day of Review to request mobility, visual, hearing or other^ Center at You may appeal the Drain Commissioner's decision to revise the Drainage District boundaries t S5'Stance' Circuit Court within ten (10) days, and you may also appeal the determination of apportionments £ Barrv County Probate Court within ten (10) days. 10 the county Jim Dull, Barry County Drain Commissioner 400 W. State SL, Suite B Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-4702 retired. • invest as much as you can in your retirement. During your working years, contrib­ ute as much as y ou can afford to your IRA and your 40l(k) or similar employer-spon­ sored retirement plan. And every time y ou get a raise, try to increase lhe amount you put into y our employer’s plan • Protectyourselffrom long­ term cane costs. If y ou’re for­ tunate, you’ll never need any type of long-term care, such as an extended stay in a nurs­ ing home or lhe services of a home health care provider. Still, there are no guarantees, and long-term care expenses can lx* big enough to threaten your retirement savings. The­ as crage cost for a private room in a nursing home is about $100,000 per year, while a home health aide costs about S50.000 per year, according to the insurance company Genworth. Medicare typical­ ly pays just a small portion of these amounts, so you nuv want to purchase a long-term care insurance policy that will pay for qualified 'long-term cy would pay benefits toward those expenses. • Choose an appropriate m ithdrawal rate. During your retirement, you’ll need to withdraw money from your IRA, 401(k) and other retire­ ment accounts. But you’ll want to avoid taking out too much each year, especially during the early years of your retirement, h’s important to es­ tablish an annual withdrawal rate that’s appropriate fur your needs, taking into account your age, sources of income, lifestyle and other factors. 3 he thought oi running out ol money during retirement is scary indeed but by making smart choices, you can go a long way toward alleviating this fear and enjoy ing your life as a retiree. this article was written by l.dwarj Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Idvisor I’dward Jones Member SIPC Edward Jones is a licensed insurance producer in all states aad Washington. DC. through Edward D Jones it care costs. Or you might con­ Co., /. p attj m sider a "hybrid” policy, which Mnv Wex/co and Manat ha­ combines long-term care pro­ st. its through Edward Jones tection with life insurance So. it you never needed long­ Insurance igen<y OJ Caldorl:;U. I ! i'd^j/d term c.irc. your hybrid policx bn to ana .Igenty of hew I’-1' “ d*"h bencli, ,’o yexico. Id (\ afd Eduard your beneltdary. but if \ou Jones insurance .igenci of did n<vd the cav< ymir ^lasxachusciis I [, ( ’ ’ !;,rgv Rlrt:insb>i • • iandk;, ■ -ap Accessible "«eral ‘fs Accepted 2<>9-945-3>52 •"?’ - Ml -19058 w w w •Rirrbachfuticralhome �Hastings Banco- - Thu^y. March 12.ZOM-«»»>» 9 ••’l he 122 miles overland was traveled in seven days on account of their being snowed in. They"slept nights upon the ground when Mlnued up they couldn’t find a granary. on tl’c *t(> ’ Usin‘-’SMnen in "From the Promcntoro property, they retraced their steps and were on their way­ Mexicohome. They stopped al El Paso over Sunday, being entertained by- Mr. and Mrs Ed. C lark. i . pn^'Pc'4,,h, i Dan Slewart and D. Storms, former Barry-Well- 1 ^Tlic) slanc(j() 'e all returned County people. In this place, they tcxrk in one irom In*1- Uftd l(nr yrcther on the of the celebrated bull fights, in which three 2Sth of home atthey say. men were hurled into the air and four horses they nil s,.a ,arfivc here th,. s‘,,ne lime, but and five hulls killed. they <hdn I » home |a day. W.W. "Mr. Sweezey look a side line and went Potter reavO SwCc Saturday. D.L. over to luis Cruces, New Mexico, where L B. G<xxiyenr 3 jOw Tuex^, L5ame Monday, Bentley and family are located, lie found and Royce 7> ^ndary ’**>’ cither have them enjoying life and prospering. been over 1 . e caVc ifj JTexas or have “From the Heralds conversation with the prospectors, wc should judge that the trip will always be remembered by them, and while there is much we cannot reveal at the present time, we will say that their report of the mines over sever. _ (j s to rcach (hc is very flattering. The properties are situated la.nd °1W <KcUPied PullX" ,ad or 8° in the east rarflte of the Sierra Madre afoot. They c and ian^ or double­ Mountains, which are rich in minerals. "Quite a quantity of specimens were brought back, and Mr. Potter secured all the Mexican coins from SI down. The Mexicans popped a. call all United Stales money the same as gold and arc eager to get it. At El Paso, gold is the OklaXl-*J^,^ad prevailing money. dinner.T" w R. fcllow•—’J M X’rs'Ea,0n and ">ey ' R,’",lmine r^'r" ' fl back at the stories and columns on local history / in Ma Hastings Banner i TURNING back the £ J5 PAGES Familiar news filled 1903 newspaper Kathy Maurer Copy Editor cJf.dh?3 ,X)Un.d C?P>* °f lhe H™inV can.full) opened a few weeks ago released all sorts of news lying dormant for 117 years. Some of the stories, opinions and snippets are surpnstngly relevant today: Election news (primary vs. caucus), partisan politics, southern travels, contagious illness concents, housing shortages, roads and more SMALLPOX LEADS TO QUARANTINES AND CANCELLATIONS lhe centuries-old and highlv contagious disease smallpox spread among local residents in early 1903. Several issues of the Herald referenced local numbers and quarantines (including information from other newspapers): Feb: 26: lhe Old Folks’dancing and card parly, which was to have been given Feb. IS but was post ptmed on account of smai Ipox, w ill be given Thursday evening. March 5. at the opera house. Feb. 26: Onlv one new family quarantined since our last issue, that of Mrs. \Vm. Jenks. The houses of Ernest Edger, Frank Nash. Carl Wespinter. Romanzo Brown. L.A. McIntyre and Al Ilemey have been released from quarantine. Out of the total of 56 cases, 16 have been released from quarantine and probably one-half of the remainder have recovered bin are detained because others have the disease in lhe house. .At present rate, lhe disease will soon be stamped out. Feb. 26. Cedar Creek column: The smallpox cases are all doing well at present. No new cases reported. March 5: John Buehler and family, who have been quarantined on account of smallpox in their home, have had the satisfaction of conversing with people over lhe phone. But it is said that a certain man tried to deprive them of this and asked (he health officer io make Mr. Buehler keep away from the phone since he was talking all over lhe neighborhood and everyone would be exposed. - Freeport Herald. March 5: The number of [households! now under quarantine is only six, and by the end of the week, it is expected that there will be but three. March 12, Carlton Center column: School commenced again Monday after two weeks’ vacation on account of lhe smallpox scare. March 12: We understand that there is another case of smallpox at J.R. Smith’s. John, the 17-x ear-old boy. is now recovering and Mrs. Smith is reported as just coming down with the disease. They are and will be strictly quarantined until all danger is past. March 12: Since our last issue, four new cases of smallpox have developed in different families, but (here now arc [fewer} houses HALF FARE Plus $2.00 For Round Trip Tickets VIA Louisville & Nashville R< R. To Nearly AH P<rfnu in ALABAMA. FLORIDA. GEORGIA, KENTUCKY. MISSISSIPPI, VIRGINIA. NORTH AND SOOTH CAROIJN A. TENNESSEE Ticket-* <n '-.tic MarcIi .'d ami 17th April 7th .'.nd 21st. May 5th a rd r»:h. Jun" 2<I-Uth. and ru tir-t. ami thin! Tuesday it each month thin-aitrr until Noc, 17th, am! mk 4 n-li’minu 21 day* from date cl »a!e. Fur further infnrtnat:.n a n-nit year ! ■c.d ojrvot, er :u!<1re«s C L STONE. Ger P.-tn. Ah*. LOUIS VILLE I NASHVILIE V. P. LcuIsvtUe. Ky. ..................................... ........ ................................... Railroad companies advertised travel to southern sites in the winter 1903 issues. A group of local businessmen traveled by train and horseback to explore mining opportunities in Mexico. under quarantine than one week ago. March 19: There are only two houses quarantined on account of smallpox in this city. HASTINGS PEOPLE IN MEXICO The Feb. 26 Hastings Herald reported “Hastings People in Mexico.” The group of men were not traveling merely to be in a warmer climate, however. The El Prugresso, a newspaper published at Nueva Case Grande. Chihuahua, Mexico, has lhe following item, in its Feb. 13 issue, that will be of interest to our readers: “Last week Mr. Pal Durack took a company of gentlemen out to see his celebrated silver and lead mine in Sonora, west of here. They were Messrs. WAV. Potter, D.L. Goodyear, W.B. Sweczey and R.E. Barlow of Hastings. Mich., and E.C. Beecham, S. Flores and P. Durack of El Paso. "They all came in on the train and took a gcxxl look at our beautiful young city, enjoying its hospitality and admiring the extent and life. The mine they visited is celebrated and is well known as extensive. It carries large bodies of rich ore. on all sides are indications that it wn> worked many years ago by a nice of people who have passed away. Il might Victor Calking machines $15.00 to $50.00. "The building of the new chair factoryTras brought lo light an embarrassing state of affairs that threatens disaster to Hastings, kb a strange fact that there are no houses t-.^e the two bo) 5 lhe r appetites and had for the workmen who are expectec"to OILED ROADS TRIED durh1’^,h^-vM/<,f,lni'-1M')ada And have proved most satisfactory in move here within a few weeks. There must be good threv n . many places houses for the men and their families or the "B> <hC Si is ST thc>’ 8ivc Mr. “A contemporary, referring to the oiled factory cannot Ik* operated, and the Herald Eaton’s “ “h>ui what could be roads of California, says: “A great many of understands that there is actual danger .of expected ol one^wholVcd in Has|in^ the small towns have them, and in many losing this new industry on account of this several years. Mdent of two banks in places between these towns, the country roads scarcity of houses for rent. y the vicinity o M^kogce, secretary of are oiled, and it is said that many of the "This is not creditable to our city jmd Territorial Trust mpany, making farmers bought oil and sprinkled the roads ought to be remedied at once. Manager Todd (not with dies. er) and has an elegant themselves. of the Book Case Company informs the residence in Proc«s of construction. “At the parks outside of San Francisco, all Herald that he must also have houses lor his Muskogee has a ut 10.000 population, drives are oiled, and it has resulted in making employees. electric lights, water works and other modem streets equal to those paved with asphalt. The "This is an emergency that calls for lhe improvements. roads are very elastic and still tough when promptest and most energetic action possible. "After the stay in Muskogee, the party treated in this manner. Are our enterprising capitalists and men of continued its journey to g| paso, yexas |.jere “So far as known, the streets to be treated business going to see this city seriously they were joined by pal Durack, D.P. with oil are first put in good condition and injured because of the lack of houses? Is if not Beckham. Emmanuel Flores, interpreter for rolled smooth, 'flic first coating of oil is a possible for them to overcome the difficulty? the U.S. Federal court, a Mexican attendant, allowed to soak in the ground overnight and "A public meeting is to be held Satur&y and Bill Jones, the cook, and soon were after there has been some traffic over it lo night to consider another question [whether.to speeding on to their destination, so far as break the surface, oil is again sprinkled on it establish a new normal, or teacher training, railroads were concerned. After they arrived for the purpose of allow ing it to seep in the school in the area). Why not include this new at Case Grande, Mexico, they were 122 miles ground where it has been broken by the and more pressing problem in the business,of from the terminus of their journey. Here it was ; vehicle traffic. Sprinkling is continued until that meeting? , necessary to go overland on wagons for 78 the ground is saturated with lhe oil to a depth "Undoubtedly lhe situation is a critical miles to a town called Carrolas. of from four to six inches. Then you have a one for the industrial welfare of this city. Shall "It was a lovely trip, so they say, and no thoroughfare and one that equals asphalt in it be met and solved in u business-like way /or doubt it was,compared with the next 44 miles every respect, and more elastic. will the evil be allowed to continue until wc they made on horseback. From Carretas, they "An inspection showed particularly how- lose the opportunities now opening so brightly visited the Astor property, 12 miles distant, elastic these streets were. As a vehicle passed to make Hastings one of the best and most which produces mostly silver and lead. over them, the ground directly in front of the important centers of industry in western Continuing their journey, they went to San wheel rolled much as does a wave, still it is Michigan? Miguel - there are only about a dozen places not smashed out of place. There was an entire "Business men, capitalist, builders, will in Mexico called san Miguel - but this one absence of dust, and al the same time lhe you prevent lhe disaster lhal threatens this streets thus treated are thoroughly waterproof. city? was about 12 mik^from lhe Astor mines. . ..... ^ “Al this place, they were met by the mayor■ draining w ater perfectly.” “In the vicinity of the bookcase and and aidermen and all the citizens and shown proposed factory are located large tanks HOUSES IN DEMAND containing gasoline and kerosene, which .ire lhe tow n, after which the city dads went into The March 5, 1903, Herald in its very- dangerous, and the owner of lots will not executive session and granted the prospectors 200 acres of land for a mill site. Ex-Senator “additional local” news column briefly build until lhe tanks are removed We Potter says he’s going lo farm it there next mentioned the shortage of homes in Hastings: understand that the council have an ordinance “There is a demand for houses in this city, ready to pass that would allow no one to store summer. If he does. D.K. Titman will certainly secure especially low transportation rates, and and this summer probably many buildings more than three barrels of gasoline or oil in the corporate limits. With these large tanks will be erected.” we’ll visit the plantation. The March 19,1903, edition followed that removed, the owners of property in that “From San Miguel, they went on horseback to the Promcntoro property 24 miles away, with an editorial-type article asking "Shall we vicinity will immediately commence the fording the Yaqui River three times on the lose a factory ?” and answering it with "Danger erection of houses.” of it on account of scarcity of houses: trip. These mines produce gold and silver. City of Hastings City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON ORDINANCE NO. 586 requiring CONNECTIONS TO THE PUBLIC WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM AND TO REGULATE THE USE OF PRIVATE WELLS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON ORDINANCE NO. 587 AND NO. 588 TO EXTEND THE EXPIRATION DATE OF PROHIBITIONS ON MARIHUANA ESTABLISHMENTS The City of Hastings will hold a Public Hearing for the purpose of hearing written and/or oral comments from the public conceming the requiring connections to the public water supply system and to regulate the use of private wells. The public hearing will be held at 7:00 PM on Monday, March 23, 2020 in City Council Chambers on the second Che Congest, Plainest and smoothest Record floor of City Hall, 201 East State Street. Hastings, Michigan 49058. All interested citizens are encouraged to attend and to submit comments. A copy of this information is available for public inspection from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM^Monday through Friday at the Office of the City Clerk, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. HIG MASTER-3 VOICE” Always Something New at L——--------- "TTTere a novelty m 1903. but houses were in growing demand as the Road conditions v/ere challenging n the early 1900s. An article in the March 5. 1903, Hastings Herald told readers thfc! oiled roads in California were nearly as good as those paved with asphalt. The City of Hastings will hold a Public Hearing for the purpose of hearing written and/or oral comments from the public con­ cerning the extending of the expiration date of prohibitions on marihuana establish­ ments to May 31, 2021. The public hearing will be held at 7:00 PM on Monday, March 23, 2020 in City Council Chambers on the secund floor of City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, All interested citizens arc encouraged to attend and to submit comments. A copy of this information is available for public inspection from 8:00 .AM lo 5:00 PM Monday through Friday at the Office of lhe City Clerk, 201 East State Street, Hastings. Michigan 49058. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days notice to the City Clerk at 269.945.2468 or TDD call relay services $00.649.3777. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days notice to the City Clerk at 269.945.2468 or TDD call relay services 800.649.3777. jane M. Saurman City Clerk Jane M. Saurman. City Clerk 1 W61 j.vra �Page 10 — Thursday, March 10. 2020 — Tlw Hastings Danner Amazon fulfillment center opens in Gaines Township Nonet Of t oaicuBthLBi An\ THIS FIRM IS A DFHT COLLECTOR aitf.mptinx; TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR 1IUT PURPOSE. Attention homeowner: If jou arc a military teniee number nn JHtric duty, If your period of active duty hss cenclndcd lest than 90 day* ago, or if you haxc been ordered to active duty, plane contact the attorney for the party foredating the mortgage at the telephone number 'talcd in thi* notice. IX-fault has bear made in the conditions of a mortgage ntdc by D*\Jtur. Mahr Miixigan, an unmarried nomin. to Hamtat toh IltMVMn Michigan Ft nd, 1m\, dated March 2b, 2018, recorded in the office of the Register ofDecds for Barry County, Michigan, on April 23,2018, as IXxumcnt No. 2018-004116, as assigned to Hawtat run Ik MAsm / Bsuhy Cot xn» Inc„ Mortgagee, of 1215 N. Broadway. I Lxrtingx Michigan 49058. by xn Assignment of Mortgage dated March 26, 2018, and recorded in the office of lhe Register nf Dccd-s for Barry County, Michigan on April 23, 2018. as document No. 201N004117, on which Mortgage there is claimed to be due as of I cbAwry 5, 2018, the sum of $121,549.00., plus unearned gil'.cd equity ofS2O.533.34. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the .etatute in such case made and provided, notice is given under Section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCI. 600.3212, that the Mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises at a public auction sale to lhe highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check, at the Ea>t Steps of the Barry County Courthouse, 220 West State Street, Hastings Michigan 49058 (that being lhe place of holding Circuit Court in said County) starting promptly at 1:00 p.ni, on Thursday, March 19, 2<>2O. lhe amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at lhe sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office of a title Insurance company, either of which may charge a fee tor this information. Said premises arc situated in the Township of Rutland, County of Barrv. State of Michigan, described as follows. DESCRIPTION OF LOT 16. SMITH'S LAKEVIEW CENTER COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF LOT 17, SMITH S LAKEVIEW ESTATES NO 1; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 42 MINUTES 30 SECONDS WEST. 270.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00 DEGREES 17 MINUTES 30 SECONDS EAST, 49 54 FEET; THENCE NORTH 41 DEGREES 42 MINUTES 56 SECONDS WEST. 100.04 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE NORTH 41 DEGREES 42 MINUTES 56 SECONDS EAST. 170 06 FEET; THENCE NORTH 49 DEGREES 51 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST. 84.27 FEET; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY. 123.66 FEET ALONG A 383 00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE LEFT. THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS SOUTH 61 DEGREES 09 MINUTES 56 SECONDS EAST. 123 32 FEET; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY. 60.55 FEET ALONG A 317 00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE RIGHT. THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS SOUTH 64 DEGREES 57 MINUTES 30 SECONDS EAST. 60.46 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 49 DEGREES 51 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST. 149.22 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. THIS IS INTENDED TO DESCRIBE LOT 16 OF SMITH'S LAKEVIEW CENTER. RUTLAND TOWNSHIP. BARRY COUNTY. MICHIGAN. TOGETHER WITH AN EASEMENT FOR INGRESS. EGRESS AND UTILITIES AS DESCRIBED BELOW DESCRIPTION OF EASEMENT FOR INGRESS. EGRESS AND UTILITIES: BEGINNING AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF LOT 16. SMITHS LAKEVIEW ESTATES NO 1; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 42 MINUTES 30 SECONDS WEST. 66.00 FEET TO THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF LOT 17 OF SAID PLAT, THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREE 17 MINUTES 30 SECONDS EAST. 132 00 FEET TO THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID LOT 17* THENCE NORTH 41 DEGREES 43 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST. 220.19 FEET; THENCE NORTHWESTERLY. 158.66 FEET ALONG A 317.00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE LEFT. THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS NORTH 56 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 25 SECONDS WEST. 157.21 FEET THENCE NORTHWESTERLY. 123.86 FEET ALONG A 383.00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE RIGHT. THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS NORTH 61 DEGREES 09 MINUTES 56 SECONDS WEST 123.32 FEET; THENCE NORTH 42 DEGREES 20 MINUTES 34 SECONDS EAST. 66.22 FEET THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY. 97.62 FEET ALONG A 317.00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE LEFT THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS SOUTH 61 DEGREES 36 MINUTES 30 SECONDS EAST. 97 23 FEET. THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY, 191.94 FEET ALONG A 383.00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE RIGHT. THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS SOUTH 56 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 25 SECONDS EAST 189.94 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 41 DEGREES 43 MINUTES 00 SECONDS EAST. 220.19 FEET; THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY. 49.54 FEET ALONG A 66 00 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE RIGHT. THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS SOUTH 20 DEGREES 12 MINUTES 45 SECONDS EAST. 48.39 FEET TO THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF LOT 16, SMITH'S LAKEVIEW ESTATES NO. 1; THENCE SOUTH n; DEGREE 17 MINUTES 30 SECONDS WEST, 132.00 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING Commonly known as: 7811 Onyx Court, Hastings, Michigan 49058. ‘ pF «: OX-13-235-016-00 lhe redemption period shall be six (6) months from th • date of Midi sale, unless determined abandoned in •wtdanee with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case the redemption period shall be thirty (30) days from the date STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS 5thJUD|C|”*jE0FM|CH1QAN on FAMILY DIVISION PuBLlc7jy COUNTY Decedent’s Estate Estate of Shirioy^’n Alt^^cased. Date of birth: 09/25/1935. J°Aheann°ab^a. XrS personal representative, or to b0»J months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 03/02/2020 Robert L. Byington P-27621 222 West Apple Street, P.O. Box 248 This faring parental rights y re-ult In termination of your 138762 notice5?Fbabry 138479 D«£J0 CREDITORS FILENn®^^0 3 Estate of Sto,en o( blrth: Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement. Notice is given under section 3212 of the revisod TO ALL CREDITORS: judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212. that the following mortgage will bo foreclosed by a sale I Snhnnn Th0 decedent, Steven J. Sebnng. died Nov. 2,2009 of the mortgaged premises, cr some part of them, at Creditors ol the decent af0 notified that all a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or claims against the estate will bo forever barred cashier's check at the place of hold ng the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on March unless presented to Vikki M. Jager, personal 19, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be WProurt ?tr^tOrc:!0 Probal° C0Uft at 206 greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid W. Court Street. Ste. 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser the personal representative within 4 months after to free and clear ownership of the properly'. A potential . the date of publication of WtS notice. Date: 03/12/2020 ,snollC purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, Vikki M. Jager either of which may charge a fee fcr this information. 12776 Theris Dr. MORTGAGE: Mortgagor(s): Jeannie M. Tenhaaf. Wayland. Ml 49348 a married woman Original Mortgagee: Mortgage 616-836-3325 138567 Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. fMERS"). solely as nominee fcr lender and lender’s successors and assigns Date of mortgage: May 15. 2006 Recorded on STATE OF MICHIGAN June 16.2005. in Document No. 1166049. Foreclosing Assignee (if any): NewRez, LLC f/k/a New Penn COUNTY OF BARRY Financial LLC. d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing NOTICE TO CREDITORS Amount claimed to be duo at the date hereof: Two Decedent’s Trust Hundred Fifty-Nine Thousand Forty-Two and 63/100 In the Matter of John N. Robertson Trust. Date of Dollars ($259,042.63) Mortgaged premises: Situated birth: March 10,1915. In Barry County, and described as: PARCEL 1: Lot TO ALL CREDITORS: 31. Schaffers Point, according to the plat thereof, as NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. John recorded in Liber 2 of Plats. Pago 40, Barry County •q ;N. Robertson, died November 12, 2014 leaving Records Parcel 2: A parcel of land adjacent to the plat the above Trust in full force and effect. Creditors of Schaffer’s Point in Sect on 20. Town 3 North. Rango 10 West, Yankee Springs Township. Barry County, of the decedent or against the Trust are notified Michigan, described as begrring at the Southeast that all claims against the decedent or trust will comer of said plat; thence North 14 dc-gn?es 00 minutes be forever barred unless presented to Jane E. East 199.C0 feet: thence North 03 degrees 30 mriutos Robertson. Trustee, within 4 months after the date East 152 feet; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 of publication of this notice. seconds East 180.74 feet; thence South 00 degrees 41 Date: March 5, 2020 minutes 30 seconds East 341.63 feet; thence South 89 Rhoades McKeo PC degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds West 241.52 feet to Stephanie S. Fekkes P43549 the Point of Beginnhg. Excepting therefrom; A parcel of land adjacent to the p’at of Schaffer's Point of 150 W. Court Street, Ste. A Sect on 20. Town 3 North, Range 10 West, described Hastings, Ml 49058 • ■ •;. • as commencing at the Southeast corner of s<cd plat; (269)945-1921 • ' thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East Jane E. Robertson ............. 15.00 feet; thence North 14 degrees 00 minutes East c/o Rhoades McKee Pp,150 W. Court Street, Ste. A 50.00 feet for true point of beginning; thence North 14 Hastings, Ml 49058 degrees 00 East 100.00 feet; thence north 89 degrees (269) 945-1921 138583 41 minutes 30 seconds East 188.50 feet; thence South 00 degrees 41 minutes 31 seconds East 96 99 feet; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 39 seconds West 213.65 feet to the point of beg;nnrig. Also except: A STATE OF MICHIGAN parcel of land adjacent to the plat of Schaffer’s Point in PROBATE COURT Section 20. Town 3 North, Range 10 West, described COUNTY OF BARRY as commencing at the Southeast comer of said plat; NOTICE TO CREDITORS thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East Jacqueline I. Healey Recovable Trost. 15.00 feet; thence North 14 degrees 00 minutes East TO ALL CREDITORS: 270.00 feet; thence North 03 degrees 30 minutes East NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The Trustee, Jacqueline 30.00 feet for true point of bc-g.nn ng; thence North I. Peavey. died 02/14/2020. 03 degrees 30 minutes East 50 00 feet; thence North Creditors of the trust, are notified that all claims 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 152.00 feet; thence South CO degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East against the trust, will be forever barred unless 50.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 presented to Lorri L Koon and Sheri L Peavey, Co­ seconds West 155.67 feet to the po nt of beginning. Trustee within 4 months after the date of publication Also except: A parcel of land adjacent to the plat of of this notice. Schaffer s Point in Section 20. Town 3 North, Range Date: 03/10/2020 10 West, described as commencing at the Southeast Darrell L. Price (P41161) comer of said p’at; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes ' 130 East Columbia Avenue 30 seconds East 15.00 feet: thence North 14 degrees 00 Battle Creek. Michigan 49015 minutes East 150.00 for the Point of Beginning; thence 269-963-5583 North 14 degrees 00 minutes East 51 38 feet; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 175.30 Lorri L Koon 14286 Dlehlman Drive feet; thence South 00 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 50.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes Hickory Comers. Ml 49060 30 seconds West 188.50 feet to the point of beginning, and c A Parcel of land adjacent to the plat of Sheri L Peavey. Co-Trustee Schaffer’s Point in Section 20. Town 3 North. Range 4431 Indian Isle, 10 West, described as beginning at a point which lies 138806 Battle Creek, Ml 49017 North 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 15.00 m 1 m the Southeast corner of said plat; lhence North 14 degrees 00 minutes East 50.00 feet; thence North 89 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds East 213.85 STATE OF MICHIGAN ’hQGI^9 South 00 degrees 41 minutes 30 seconds PROBATE COURT 48.45 feet; thence South 89 degrees 41 minutes COUNTY OF BARRY ryJt6000?5 >West 226 52 feet t0 the point of beginning, NOTICE TO CREDITORS ^nrcojy known as 1230 Lynn Dr, Middleville, Ml Decedent's Estate ‘"Vodempt'on period will bo 6 months from FILE NO. 2O-28457-DE Ron 'iofi°f SUCu sa!G* uniess abandoned under MCL Estate of Michael Adair Undell. Date of birth: 1 81 ,n ^hich case the redemption period will be during the redemption period- onlv to a rohim e ?ffcha5<J!’ at the sale wlil be entitled Stfl have n??X,he dep0S< p*dP^ch3Sef the Mortaar J recourse against the Mortgagor, Attorns foTMort^c Joseph A- Lucas (1-595^) a"orn6y- Arlion aCt1Vo d-itv wuZ. * d mI,,tary service member on &XV3^ aTo,0! "c’,va du,y concluded Hu -incss Address: Siiitc 3<X> 55 Canp;.uA>cn e ^...Su1< active dutv n!r-C« S' ? 137423 by the court on Trial will be conducted a m. In 5th Circuit, March 26, 2020 at 8:30 William Doherty. You Division before Hon and the right t0 a uhi ,h0 nghl to attorney IT IS THERfpQn^/Judge or jury. SpRnr»°.FM,CH1QAN buys the oro^rtbC ?°:d ,esbonsib:e to the person who loathe y ? !he mort9age foreclosure sale or durinnthA h0,dcr for ^''ng the property r,od-"«»is sei Sdo (616)235-3500 A Hobb5 °nd Ta,» Hastings. Michigan 49058 269-945-9557 Pamela Kim Kornstadt 401 Laythan Court Winder, GA 30680 770-560-7739 r .f rhe lUv ised Judicature Art of 1961, pursuant to MCI. 327h the borrower will be held responsible to the vx ho buy s lire property ut the mortgage foreclosure K <-> ">' '",!d"for <Lim4!in8 llK pmptrt> MI 495 ' ' Sottlllie personally ORDERED that Janelle timo and place stat JrSaz before the court at the MM^S^ °f (f th property is M>ld a! foreclosure sale under Chapter (ir.uid 14-8754-NA NOTICE To'cREDITORS; Wc dOTWlent. Shirley MCL 600^2diOTMa,e °f Such M'°’or 15 days ,rom th0 extinni??J.rt4 a b notlCe' whichever is later, or unless d pun>uant to MCL 600.3238. If the above Chant J a?Pn7?!?iilSo!d at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of Act 236 of 1961, under MCL 600.3278. Dated: February I3.2O..O Rn«»Wl.xM^rI>C 0E hearing 'N0S^fe^«>0098«.44 TO you hav° been ordered to fortK’os nn' the lh° r,tt°,n€y for the party stated Inlhis noTS.9NowRLth|Clpl?phonG nu!?ber Financial LLC d/b/t ^ow Penn Mortgagee/AssianL ShSS?'’1 M°ft9a9a Servicing 23938 Researeh £ sU4e 3^?" & ShOrwan 48335 248 539.7400 3°° han™9ton Hills, Ml 1410769 (02-20)103-121 A 01/14/1949. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Michael Adair Undell, died 10/01/2019. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Shirley D. Lindell, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W Court Street, Ste. 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: March 9, 2020 Stephanie S. Fekkes P43549 150 W. Court Street, Ste. A Hastings, Ml 49058 Employees at the new Amazon fulfillment center in Gaines Township are shown in front of the building. (Photo provided) Greg Chandler Staff Writer Nearly two years after breaking ground, e-commerce retail giant Amazon Inc. has opened its new fulfillment center in Kent County’s Gaines Township, about six miles northwest of the Barry County border. Sunday marked the first day of business at the 855,000-square-foot distribution center at the southwest comer of 681^ Street and Patterson Avenue. So far, “a couple of hun­ dred’’ full-time employees have been hired to work at lhe facility, with more hiring to come, Amazon spokesman Andre Wbodson said. Emplojees at the fulfillment center will pick, pack and ship items to customers like electronics, books, housewares and toys. They will receive a minimum wage of $15 per hour, Woodson said. Amazon announced in 2018 that it would build the center in Gaines Township. Slate and local officials approved a scries of eco­ nomic incentives to encourage the retailer to build here, including a $4 million Strategic Fund Grant from lhe Michigan Economic Development Corp, as well as local and state tax breaks. The MEDC grant was to be based on lhe company hiring IXXX) workers at the center. Ground was broken on fulfillment center in June 2018, and the company received its first occupancy permit approval from the township a year later. NOTICE TO BIDDERS BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION Sealed proposals will be received at the office of the Barry County Road Commission, 1725 West M-43 Highway, P.O. Box 158, Hastings, Ml 49058, until 10:30 A.M. Wednesday, April 15, 2020 for the following items. Specifications and additional information may be obtained at the Road Commission Office at the above address or at our web site at www.barrycrc.org. Crack Seal Blocks Culverts Scraper Blades Bituminous Mixtures Asphalt Paving The Board reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or to waive irregularities in the best interest of the Commission. BOARD OF COUNTY ROAD COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF BARRY David D. Solmes Frank M. Fiala D. David Dykstra 138805 PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS —r i i ~i -- ■■ —■ in iiiiiniiij nr Chairman Member Member --------- - NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Public Hearing.will fee held bv the Prairieville Township Zoning Board ofADDeulsonADriH. 2020 at 7:00 P,M, at the Prairieville Township HalL 101t5 S.Norris Road, within the Township. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the itenffsl to be^considered at this public hearing include, in brieC the following: 1. A request by Chet Berkimer, 11493 Lakeshore Dr.. Plainwell Ml 49080 for a variance to allow for the construction of a new single-family dwelling that fails to meet the rear yard setback requirements set forth in section 6.17 ’’Non-Conforming Lots of Record'. The subject property is 11493 Lakeshore Dr. Plainwell, Ml 49080 - 08-12-320-038-00 and is located in the R2 zoning district. 2. Such other and further matters as may properly come before the Zoning Board of Appeals for this meeting. 269-945-1921 Shirley D. Undell c/o Rhoades McKee, 150 W. Court Street, Ste. A Hastings, Ml 49058 269-945-1921 138706 137685 call 269-945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classified ads All interested persons are invited to be present or submit written comments on this matterfs) to the below Township office address. Prairieville Township will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the hearing upon five (5) days notice to the Prairieville Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Prairieville Township Clerk at the address or telephone number set forth below. Jim Stonebumer, Township Supervisor ,,v �Tho Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 12, 2020 — Page 11 Estate _ ,*do’ur®byA<btMt Notice of section ajij^nt Notice a ^<£1. I*51 *6 judicature net of be fo^ 6003212. that the of lhe or Jfenw by a t9 the Wfeq tS?/ a public auct|onJ^ of cashier’s check a ^promptly « i qq at ** c°3h or court in Barry County, on tho morig-J /’■ °n Apm 9( 2020. Tho amoen,ho Ngh^ be greater on the day of »•«the at tho sale does not automatg?W ^perty. A free and Lucas Richards, Abigail Sni^/1 ront row’from ,eft^ Jessie Hunt, Shelby Lundquist, and Izzy Bergeron rocpntk, h r 'back^ Grace Green, Olivia Oger, Maddie McMasters ers. delivered a healthy-lifestyle message to local fourth-grad- Hastings TATU leaders speak to local fourth-graders . .'u.'oi 'h° ‘"I’) sPccia,1y 'rained Teens u^ tk '^IUa’ Usc icudcr> l r‘’in Hastings Hf'!r.™00 -ccently completed another year of FA1U presentations for Hastings fourth­ grade Students at Central. Northeastern. Southeastern and Star elementary schools. The presentations were designed to be fun. interactive and educational, focusing on mak­ ing healths decisions to be nicotine-free. Fourth-grader, learned about the harmful chemicals in cigarette smoke and \ aping aero­ sols. health problems associated with tobacco and nicotine use, the cost of smoking, and lhe impact of nicotine on blood vessels. TATU is a program of Barn County Substance Abuse Prevention Services-Barry County Community Mental Health Authority and is funded in part by the Barry Community Foundation. Tobacco Settlement Funds. Hastings TATU is coordinated by Kelli Newberry. HHS SADD advisor. TATU has been active in Hastings Area Schools since 2001. clear ownersW ,jct the county purchar.cr is encouraged to w company, ei-J* ** of deeds office or a title jnformation. - c* which may charge a fee for tn* ^r(r);Jos Name(s) of th<^^Jsb.ind Rodr,^« and Kimberly S. Rodri£g Mortgago 3® Original Morl9rS^gso, as rxj^'’^ration Systems. Inc, as mort9^ assigns *'for ,cnde' and lender’s successors a Foreclosing Ass^ng UC dtn Shelipo’nt Mort9a^.^7ember 25,20^ Date of Mortgage-• 12 Date of Mortgage R^d39 *^3.2012 Amount cla.med da nOflg2god S62.634.69 Description of the • Situated in Village of ^^.^eV^ageofN^k ’^’930, and described as: Lot 69°L_ d„d (n !e’ acc°rd ng to tho plat thereof, as reco ' of Plats on Page Common street addr®ss 723 N Queen St. Nashville, Ml eh->-i ha c The redemption 5 6 "^ths from the date of such sale, v**** -J^nned abandoned in accordance with MCL 600. , or, if the subject real property is used for agneu • purposes as defined by MCL600.3240(16). If the property Is so’d at toreowuresa’a under Chapter 32 of tho Revised Judicature Act of 1961. pursuant to MCL 600 3278 the borrower wil be he’d responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sa’e or to the mortgage hp^ fcf damagin the property during the redempuon penod. Attention homeowner: If you are a notary service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, pisase contact the attorney for tho party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated In this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: March 12,2020 Trott Lavr, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Suite 145 Famvngton Hills, Ml 48334 (248)642-2515 1412460 (03-12)104-02) Callie Lear, (from left) Joey Turnes, Lauren Sensiba. Valeria Arias. Elizabeth Gonsalves. Madison McWhinney and Kennedy Newberry, members of Hastings High Schoofs Teens Against Tobacco program, stop for a photo at one of the elementary schools. (Photos provided) Elaine Garlock The Lake Odessa Area Historical Society meets tonight at 7 p.m. at lhe museum on Emerson Street. The society had a successful chili supper last Friday.lhe previous weekend the croup hosted an estate sale for the family of one of its late members. Saturday. March 14. lhe Ionia County Genealogical Society will meet at the museum at 1 p.m. with a speaker, library time, refreshments and at an earlier hour will be ready to assist any aspirants who are working on cither their First Families application or certification for 1 (MJ years of residence in the county. . . A coming event at First Congregational Church is the community open house at the church SuiKlaj. March 29. in honor of the Rev. Mark Jarvic and his wife. Kathy, who •a ill be moving to the Cheboygan area. Mark has been pastor of the local church kn many year, afta a postal career in Battle Creek and residence in Vermontville. Kathy has been employed al lhe federal budding in lhe Cerea City for decades. The open house will be Inm 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday. The public ts nv ted Rev. Jarvie has been an ael.ve men lxr_ol hit- focal ministerial association• • ino.nmienlal m leading Pining ^r G* d I-.day and Ihanksgiving Eve ‘hfts been an activ e member of thy ■ 1-J 1 •immunity Library. board of < n<-v • . ’lhe hi River Mnscmn .group wtII meet ^‘ Tuesday. March 17 '* Months due to weather concerns. I • M been planned for a Gratmiii site.: timed Methodist Women of Ccn « one met Monday with Karen Avery serving as the leader. Members signed Easter cards for missionaries in the field and a few who are retired. Jayne Flanagan of Woodland was the speaker, relating the history and functions of Manna’s Marke,. which scrves a con,mu||i|v need for food and clothing. Other services are provided for low-income persons, including instructions toward a more independent life. The project began in a Woodland storefront, where it functioned for a few years until the former Lakewood Baptist Church on the curve of M-50 across the highway from Lakewood High Schoo! became available. ” Richard and Vergie Winkler made an carlv return from Florida this year and are now at home in Woodland Township. fhe education committee of Central United Methodist Church Sunday served a soup and salad meal (plus desserts) for members of the congregation. Most church attendants remained for the tasty luncheon. Bruce Garlock of Big Rapids spent two days at his mother’s home working on a major family history project. Despite crazy weather, the maple trees are putting forth their sap this spring again. The trees need freezing nights and thawing days in order to produce a productive amount of sap. A trip to lhe Morris Maple Fann on M-50 yields another year’s crop of syrup. 'I heir sugar facility has its own wood-bunting kitchen stove, dining table and unique chairs each made from a section of tree trunk with attached back rest, lhe steam from the evaporator is always sweet. 136605 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212. that the following mortgage will bo foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged piemises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on April 9, 2020 The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of safe. Piactng the highest b:d at thfl sain dees not automatically entitle tho purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, cither of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Sallie Emert, an unmarried woman Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems. Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Flagstar Bank Date ol Mortgage: August 20,2018 Date of Mortgage Recording: August 22. 2018 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $264,543.98 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated In Township of Barry, Bany County, Michigan, and described as: Beginning at tho 1/4 Corner common to Sections 22 and 23. Town 1 North. Range 9 West, thence North 00 degrees 10 minutes 32 seconds West. 1319.33 feet a’ong tho Section line common to Sections 22 and 23, thence South 89 degrees 52 minutes 14 seconds East. 274.67 feet along the North line of the Southwest 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of said Section 23. thence South 43 degrees 43 minutes 30 seconds East, 456.56 feet, thence South 06 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds West. 696.33 feet to the true Point of Beginning, thence North 89 degrees 52 minutes 29 seconds West. 220.00 feet, thence South 06 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds West 200.00 feet, thence South 89 degrees 52 minutes 29 seconds East 220.00 feet thence North 06 degrees ^Xte ?7 Seconds East. 200.00 feet to the Point of Beginning. Together wrth a private easement fcr Ingress, egress, and public ubhbes purposes. 99.00 feet in width described as: Beginning at a point on tho East-West 1/4 line of Section 23. Town 1 North. Ranoo 9 West distant South 69 degrees 52 minutes 29 ^onds East 255 97 feet from the West 1/4 corn^of ^Section 23. thence North 06 degrees 2? m nu es 17^conds East. 99.59 feet, thence qLm flb ripnroes 52 minutes 29 seconds East. 454 QQ kVthenco South 00 degrees 07 minutes 31 seconds West 99.00 feet, thence North 89 degrees “SSends 4601 feet along said East-West 1/4 line to ths Po nt of Beginning. Aicrv rnmmpncing at Quarter post of Section 23 Town 1 Nofth* Ran0e 9 West; thence sS 89 dX 52 minu,e’ 29 Easl 475 97 feet Xng the East and West Quarter line J «id ^ctfon 23. d»n£”"thde^ees 21 minutnc 17 fronds East zzu.59 fOet for the Place of Beginning: thence w""n“^0™ 06 degrees 21 minutes 17 -seconds East wu oo feet; thence North 89 de^s 52X«S2V?iT West 120 CO feet; thence South 06 ‘nutes 10 GGCOnd5 West 100.0 feet; thenco'Sou*? 09 degrees 52 minutes 29 seconds East 120-°fe? of Spinning. Common street adfle55 a y)t 2050 W Lelnaar Rd. Delton, Ml 49046-9567 ■Dio redemption 1*^4 detX^T?3 ,r°'” th° date of such sale. <^324?- 0(1 abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.JZ4la 0 ,f thQ subjcct fed property Is used 0 J Plural purposes as defined by MCL 600.32;^ 11 lhe nroDorty Is so»*’ !°-uro sale under Chapte^oUho Act of 1961, X b^er wiW be hdd pursuant to MCL tvsponsiblo to the pe,5(\ the mortgage foreclos^ holder for damage the property at to the mortgage during the redemption period. . ou Attention homeowner. ( a military service member on active duty kxt ol active duty has concluded less ,han,‘duty J*?0' <* If you have boen ordered to act. *\dos>nn tK contact the attorney for tho party w *u niortgage nt tho telephono nutnoersta'ed^Ww. This notice Is from .> 2020 l0{ Date of notice: March Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Farmington HiMs, Ml (248) 642-2515 1412337 (03-12)(04-02) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate FILE NO, 20-23441-DE of Loobelia Gtlgec Onto 138504 In lhe Matter of Maxine A Robertson Trust Dale ol birth: 10/09/1920, TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Leebetia Ge’gcr. died 11/18/2019. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will bo forever baned unless presented to Terri L Geiger. 5341 Usbom Rd., Freeport. Ml 49325, personal representative, or to both tho probate court at The Barry County Probate Court, 206 W. Court Street, Ste. 302. Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 01/20/20 John L. Teeplcs P39341 25 Ionia Ave. SW - Ste. 230 Grand Rapids, Ml 49503 616-776-7200 Tern L Geiger 5341 Usborne Rd Freeport. Ml 49325 269-839-7089 Foreclosing Assignee (if any): U.S. Bank Trust. NA, as Trustee for LSF10 Master Participation Trust Date of Mortgage: August 12, 2005 Date of Mortgage Recording: August 19.2005 Amount cla med due on date of notice: $119,693.46 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in City of Hastings. Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Lot 12, Block 16 of Lincoln Park Addition, according to the plat thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, page 55. Barry County Records Common street address (if any): 705 W Clinton St. Hastings. Ml 49058-2043 The redemption penod shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance w.th fZCL 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property Is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to me person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale cf to the mortgage holder for damaging tho property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner. If you are a military service member cn active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated In this notice. This notice is from a debt co' ector. Date of notice: February 20,2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248)642-2515 1410646 (02-20)(03-12) ’ Of birth1 April 28, 1919. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent,Maxine A. Robertson, died February 13. 2020 leaving the above Trust In full force and effect. Creditors, of the decedent or agamst the Trust are notified ' that oil claims against the decedent or trust ' will forever baned unless presented to Jane E. Robertson, Trustee, with-n 4 months after the date of publication cf this notice. . Data March 5,2020 . Rhoades McKoe PC . Stephanie S. Fekkes P43549 150 W. Court Street, Ste. A > • Hastings. Ml 49058 1 (269)945-1921 Jane E. Robertson c/o Rhoades McKee PC, ' 150 W. Court Steer, Ste. A Hastings, Ml 49058 (269)945-1921 1385B4 138480 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961. 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that tho following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a pubic auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the p'ace of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on March 19,2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater cn the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of tno mortgagors): Randy M-lter and Patti Miller, husband and wife Original Mortgagee: Household Finance Corporation 137666 NOTICE Attention homeowner If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney fcr the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. Notice of foreclosure by advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961. 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Bany County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM on MARCH 19, 2020. The amount duo on the mortgage may bo greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to freo and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser Is encouraged to contact tho county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. Default has been made in tho conditions of a mortgage made by Clayton R. Boze and Norma J. Bozo, husband and w.fe, to PNC Bank, National Association, Mortgagee, dated November 4,2013 and recorded November 14, 2013 in Instrument Number 2013-013614 Barry County Records, Michigan. There is claimed to be duo at the date hereof the sum of Ninety-Seven Thousand Five Hundred Forty-Seven and 63/100 Dollars ($97,547.63), includ ng interest at 4.25% per annum. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and tho statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given tnat said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the place of holding tho circuit court w<thm Bany County, Michigan at 1:00 PM on MARCH 19. 2020. Sai J premises are located in the Township of Barry, Barry County Michigan, and are described as: Beg nn.ng at the intersection of the west line of Section 6. Town 1 Nortti, Rango 9 West and the centerhne of DeHon Road in the NW 1/4 of said Section 6; Thence Easterly 400 feet along the centerl.no of Delton Road for the iruo place cf beginning; thence South 645 feet parallel with the west line of said Section 6; thence East 330 feet at nght angles; thence North 675 feet, more or less, parallel with said west line of Section 6, to lhe centerline of Delton Road; tnonce Westerly 335 feet, more or less, along said centerl.no to the place of beginning 6991 Delton Road, Delton. Michigan 49046 The redemption penod shall bo 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accoid mce with MCLA§600.324la, in which case the redempt-on period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale If the property is so’d at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278. the borrower wiC bo teld respons bte to lire person who buys tho property at the mortgage foreclosure sate o< to th-? mortgage holder for damage to the property dunng the redemption period. Dated: February 20. 2020 file No. 20-001691 Firm N-atne. Orians PC Firm Address. 1650 West B g Beaver Road. Troy Ml 48094 Firm Phene Number: (248) 502.1400 (02-20X03 121 v guae i it_ 5 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Trust 137667 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is gi/en under section 3212 of the revised judcature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212., that the following mortgage will b% foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or seme part of them, at a public auction sale to the bghest bidder for cash or • cashier's check at tho place of hold ng the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM. on April 16, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sa'e. Placing the highest bld at the sale does not automatca'ly entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds . office or a title insurance company, either of which may. • charge a fee for this information: . Name(s) of the mortgagees): Robert G. Paige and Minnie J. Paige, husband and wife, as tenants by the . entireties , Ong-nal Mortgagee: Grffin Financial Mortgage, LLC . Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Reverse Mortgage • Funding LLC •> Date of Mortgage: April 28.2006 ., Date cf Mortgage Recording; May 12,2006 7 Amount claimed due on date of not'ce: $188,984.99 . Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in '■ Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, and desenbed as: Beginning at a point on tho North and South 1/4 line of Section 13. Town 1 North, Range 8 West,- .1 distant North 00 degrees 01 minutes 22 seconds East ., 500.00 feet from the center cf sad Section 13; thence. ? continuing North 00 degrees 01 minutes 22 seconds • East 343.00 feet, thence North 86 degrees 00 minutes 34 . seconds East. 1753.29 feet; thence South 321.85 feet to the centerLne of Holden Road; thence South 71 degrees 27 minutes 15 seconds West, along said centertine cf Holden Road. 419.05 feet; thence North 70 degrees 39 minutes West. 35.04 feet thence South 89 degrees 04. minutes West 1319.06 feet to tho p'ace cf beginning. Common street address (if any): 4751 Frvin P.d,-Bellevue, Ml 49021-8203 The redemption period sha’l be 6 months from thedata ol such sa'e. unless detemfned abandoned in. accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or. if the subject real property is used tor agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 6003240(16). ' If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act 0! 1961, pursuant ta-r MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible. to the person who buys the property at the mortgage. . foreclosure sale or to the mortgage bolder for damagxig; the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner If you are a m/ tcry service. member on active duty-, if ycur period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been, ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the / party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. q This notice is from a debt collector. . Date of notice: February 27.2020 Trott Law. RC. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills. Ml 48334 .u (248)642-2515 1411366(02-27X03-19) 138045 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised 1 . judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 6003212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a safe1’ of the mortgaged prem’ses, cr some part cf them, at . a public auction safe to the highest bidder for cash or ’ cashier's check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1 00 PM. on April ■ 23. 2020. Tho amount due on the mortgage may be 1 greater on the day of sate Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser' to free and dear ownersh p of the property. A potential ' purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register' of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of ' which may charge a fee for this information1 ’ • Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Rita M. Bates, surviving spouse > Original Mortgagee Financial Freedom Senior Funding Corporation, A Subsidiary of IndyMac Bank. FSB. Foreclosing Assignee (if any) Bank of New York' Mellon Trust Company, N A. as Trustee for Mortgage Assets Management Series I Trust ’ Date of Mortgage: July 25. 2007 - 4 Date of Mortgage Reccrd ng. August 6. 2007 ’ Amount claimed duo on date of notice: $92,816 71 1 Description of the mortgaged prem-ses Situated in Township of Irving. Barry County, Michigan, and desenbed as That part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 31. Town 4 North Range 9 WosL Irving Township. Barry County, Michigan, described as Cornmenong at the South 1/4 comer of sad section, thence North 00 degrees and 00 minutes West 2303 95 feet a'eng lhe West hne of said Southeast 1/4 to a po-nt which is South 00 degrees 00 minutes East 330 0 feet from the Center of sad Section 31; thence North 89 degrees 54 minutes East 335 17 feet a’ong the North l.ne of Church Street to the place of beginning of this description, thence North 03 degrees 27 minutes 15 seconds Wes! 165.0 feet along tho East Lne cf Race Street, thence North 89 degrees 54 m nutes Fast 132 0 feet, thenew South 00 degrees 27 minutes 15 seconds East 165.0 feet to the North Lne of Church Street, thence South 69 degrees 54 minutes West 132 0 feet to the place of begmnng Common street address (if any)1 6463 W Irving Rd. Husings. Ml 49055 9787 The redemption penod sha4 bo 6 months from the date of such safe, unless determzied abandoned in accordance w-.th MCL 600 324 la. or. if tne subject real property is used fur agricultural puiposes as defined by MCL 600 3240(16) If tho property 15 sold at foreclosure safe under Chapter 32 cf ttie Revised Judicature Act of 1961. pursuant to MCL 600 3278 tho borrower wil be held lesponj bte lo the person who buys the property at the, mortgage foreclosure safe or to tfyj mortgage hodor for damaging the property dunng the redemption penod. Attention homeowner If you are a military serves member on ad-ve duty if your penod of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or J you have been ordered to active duty please contact the attorney tor the party foreefes ng lhe mortgage at Ux tefephone number stated in this notice This notice is from a dubt co'tedor Date of nobce: March 5, 2020 Trott Law. PC 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Suite 145 Farmington Hite, Ml 48334 (248)642-2515 1412218 (03-05X03-26) 136446 �PaflS 12 - Thurulay. March 12.2020 - The Has W Bannm Shipping company stops $14,500 scam Thx>pere from the Michigan State Police —>1.. isswKbeijfTjtfirify 21 Wayland Post arc currently investigating a wire fraud money scam involving an elderly victim from Barry County. The victim received a phone call regard­ ing a refund for virus protection that they had purchased for their computer. The vic­ tim allowed the caller remote access to their computer where the caller said they were able to transfer money from the victim’s savings account to their checking account. • The caller then told the victim that they accidentally reimbursed lhe victim $16,000. Lakewood’s Makley makes plans to join Spring Arbor golf program . nv victim ..............to send $1 $14,500 The caller told the via PcdEx FedEx lo to an address given and lhal the viu «ui nddivss (I victim could the for - - keep ■ *u_ additional ..rMitinnal $1,500 $1.5 their Thetrouble. victim attempted to use Sunshine pack and Ship in Hastings io send the money, but employees there found the situa­ tion suspicious and alerted stale police. Troopers arc reminding the public to not allow anyone to have access to their comput­ ers or bank accounts and not to give anyone their personal information out over lhe Brett nre'"tr BSrB Uakcwood High\lo’,d7 ‘jia center. He hadn’t cver^jy considered playing golt competi(iv . ' . • sophomore sea­ son. Before ““•^^ional outing Thursday.'^ and W' llad'S friCT<iS °*n i “* * phone. “It helped nte c|rar my nt'nd “ lot-1 *l,ad * *“ lot going on in ljf 1 ’j golf kind of just allowed me ,u thing g0 that was happetting and gOing w P ||fe'iind it just put me at peace any iimc . playing out on the \ > -I Mnce us sopho golf season he has poured himself inl0 ,L Lm. He has fdlcd Thomas Jesse Ballard. 37, of Hastings, was convicted of use of a controlled sub­ stance. methamphetamine, as a second-time offender in Hastings Sept. 10 2019 He was sentenced by Judge Michael Schipper to two days in jail, with credit for two days served, and ordered to pay $398 in fines and costs. In addition, his driver’s license was suspended for 60 days and restricted for 305 days. Ballard was placed on 12 months of proba­ tion, which includes a supervision fee of $120. He also must be employed or, if not employed, must perform community service for 20 hours a week. Charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine, and the attempted assault of or resisting and obstructing a Hastings City Police officer were dismissed. Stcpbcn William Forte, 58. of Hastings, was convicted of stalking and malicious destruction of personal property, a camper/ trailer, in Hope Township between July 20 and Aug. 27,2019, resulting in property dam­ age of $1,000 or more but less than $20,000. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to con­ current sentences - 365 days in jail on the first count and 176 days in jail on the second count - with credit for 176 days served. He was ordered to pay $4,848 in fines and costs, which includes restitution of $3,800. Forte was placed on probation for 36 months and ordered to undergo mental health evaluation and treatment, pay oversight fees of $360 and allow regular searches of his residence for firearms. A count of malicious destruction of personal property of $200 or more, but less than SljOOO and committing a felony with a firearm, a rifle, were dismissed. Victoria Nicole Kreil. 19. of Hastings, was convicted of attempted larceny in a build­ ing, trying to steal checks from a dwelling in Rutland Charter Township Sept. 6,2019. She was sentenced by Judge Schipper to serve seven days in jail, with credit for two days served, and pay $1,214 in fines and costs, including restitution of $816. She was placed on probation for 24 months, with a supervi­ sion fee of $240. She will be employed or, if not employed, will perform community ser­ vice for 20 hours a week. A second larceny in a building charge was dismissed. Blaine Steven Michaels, 19. of Allegan, was convicted of larceny in a building, steal­ ing video games and/or clothes and/or vape pens and/or a cell phone from a dwelling in Hastings Charter Township May 20.2018. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to serve 127 days in jail, with credit for 127 days served. His probation and Holmes Youthful Trainee Act status were revoked, and Michaels was ordered to pay $388 in fines and costs. Nolan Philip Molcski, 23, of Plainwell, was convicted of interfering with an electron­ ic communication, willfully and maliciously preventing, obstructing or delaying lhe send­ ing of an authorized communication by tele­ phone in Prairieville Township Nov. 2 J .2019. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to 73 days in jail, with credit for 73 days served. Moleski also was ordered to pay $737 in fines and costs and placed on probation for 24 months, with a supervision fee of $240. A charge of malicious destruction of personal property, a telephone, resulting in damages of less than $200, was dismissed. Jessie Larry Pickett, 55, of Hastings, was convicted of possession of a controlled sub­ stance. methamphetamine, in Yankee Springs Township Oct. 19.2019. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to 15 days in jail, with credit for 15 days served. Pickett’s driver s license will be suspended for 60 days and restricted for 305 days. He was ordered to pay $998 in fines and costs, which includes a supervision fee of $360, and was placed on probation for 36 months. Adam David Scars, 29. of Charlotte, was found guilty Feb. 5 of violating the terms of his probation. He was convicted July 10, 2019. for fleeing a police officer, fourth degree, and being a habitual offender. Sears was sentenced by Judge Vicky Alspaugh to serve 30 to 48 months in prison, with credit for 129 days served. Charges of driving on a suspended license, reckless driving and hav­ ing an open container of alcohol in the vehicle were dismissed. Albert Ray Symonds, 52, of Nashville, was convicted of operating a vehicle while impaired as a third-time offender on Charhon Park Road Nov. 1,2019. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to 33 days in jail, with credit for three days served. Symonds was ordered to pay $398 in fines and costs and placed on probation for 24 months, which includes oversight fees of S240. He was ordered to enter and complete lhe Barry County Sobriety Court program, which requires an assessment of $40 a month. His jail time may be served on weekends. A charge of operating a vehicle while intoxicated as a third-time offender was dismissed. David Earl Vickery, 54. of Delton, plead­ ed no contest lo a charge of second-degree criminal sexual conduct with a juvenile under the age of 13 between the years of 2011 and 2016 in Hope Township. He was sentenced by Judge Alspaugh to 365 says in jail, with cred­ it for one day served. He was ordered to pay $998 in fines and costs and placed on proba­ tion for 60 months, which includes oversight fees of $600. A second count of second-de­ gree criminal sexual conduct with a juvenile under the age of 13 was dismissed. Gary Robert Willavizc Jr.,31 .of Hastings, was convicted of delivery/manufacture of the controlled substance methamphetamine in Hastings June 19,2019. He was sentenced by Judge Alspaugh to 180 days in jail, with cred­ it for nine days served, and ordered to pay $398 in fines and costs. He was placed on probation for 36 months, which includes a supervision fee of $360, and ordered lo enter and complete the county’s Swift and Sure Sanctions Probationary Program, which requires a $40 monthly assessment. In a second case, Willavize was convicted of fleeing a police officer, fourth degree, in Hastings June 2. 2019. and was sentenced by Alspaugh to serve two days in jail, with cred­ it for two days served. He was ordered to pay $398 in fines and costs. £™T rI V'’h lournament ploy- He shot his tx.st 18-holc round so far at a tournament last summer, a 70. Ife chosJ forgo a third varsi­ ty basketball scaWn .|iis winter in part to focus on golf. “I am very excited to see what Austin can do at the next level with golf" Lakewood varsity boys’ golf CarJ Kutch said. "He entered into the Lakewood golf program as a sophomore, and I don’t know’ if anyone lias grown his game faslcr than Austin. He has a big passion for this sport and natural talent to go along with that." Makley was fourth in the Greater Lansing Activities Conference individual rankings a year ago as a junior, helping the team to a runner-up finish in the conference. He was a key contributor to the Viking team that quali­ fied tor the Division 3 Lower Peninsula State Finals his sophomore season. “Wc are excited to have Austin in our pro­ gram and wc look forward to big things out of him.” Spring Arbor Men’s Golf coach Jacob Lcyrer said. “I have recruited a few play ers out of Lakewood High and they are always great kids. Its accredited to them as individu­ als. their family, and the support of coach Kutch. We have been extremely pleased with what coach Kutch is doing and has done for years in pouring into his players and making them prepared on the course and off lhe course. XVe look forward to working with Austin and hopetowntinue pouring into him and watching his gwth in the next stage of his life.” Makley plans to lady business at Spring Arbor. He spent thii'wer studying golf. “The dream of playng college golf was right in front of me. a nd I took that opportuni­ ty to work at it and try to impress colleges. I hit a lot of balls, went out to lhe range al MSU. 1 definitely worked on putting and aligning my swing, and working on the little things 1 need to do and nuke those changes I needed to make lo get low scores.” There was time spent time practicing his alignment on putLs and working to be better at reading greens. He did 1 lot of work on the internet. "There arc a lot of different on-line pages. One of my favorite golfers is Dustin Johnson, him and Rickie Fowler, and both of them real­ ly excel in putting - especially the last couple Trojan boys jus£ miss spot in match piay at D2 Finals The Thomapple kKellogg varsity boys’ finished five pins shv of qualifying for the match play portion of lhe Division 2 Stale Finals Friday at Century Bowl in Waterford. Thorough eight Baker games and two regu­ lar games the Troians put together a total pintail of 3225. Ferndale, the last of the d2ht leams to qual’ •fy for the match plav portion of the finals had a score of 3230 -file top '°ul of tl,e c'Ellt qualifying teams came from the Cadillac team that had a final pillfaI| of 3^2. Jackson Northwest was second in qualifying with a total score of 3 51 t and 'I"-' Northwest Mounties went on to confute the s'“,c ch“mpi’ onship by outscorin die Cadillac Vikings Fath round of n,. u<.ht-«?a,n ,natc 1 p *ay 4 *he «-a ' t^uded two Baker Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All nal csU’^ «d»crt;s»nj In »Ju« h 4ubje».t lo rhr HnvCnf Act lhe Mickipn C!»il Rifhii Ail cvl.’coivciy n»ie it illeft! i:> udvrrtiK -jn/ preference. liintUtKxi r»r dicritii'rafioti ImwJ ph race, color, nligian. «*, handicap, fjontl^l i>utUK nmerxl otigin. vgc or juha. er nrt inirnhcr. t-t mke >txh prefereacc, (nnitstion ur dbenn Fnmillai indudei children unkr lhe tfc uf JX Jiving with ItpJ i prefne-.t »oommi mik! pccf-'c xxuno# c’M/od) of cIJMren under I fa Tht» rewtp-per »<’< r»x kLcrpi w;> lor real cu«tc which l» <n of itg .'»* Our re.«>r» are herrbj infcrmeV Bui itwdhnfi *d»cniMd tn rc^paprr arc 3*hjUMr an an opporfuntty brail To zrpert c*Jt hur H-Judng Ctniet a fi|6 45l 79M). The HI D i.Jl free leiephu* r^ivhct f.Y n* hcituif jn»pa.rcJ b t nn^927^iT5- i School senior Austin Makley signs his National Letter of Intent .°J0,n ,he Spr*ng Arpor University Men’s Golf program next season in the Lakewood High School media center Tuesday afternoon years.’’ Makley said. “I have done my home­ work on how they align themselves up for putts, what they do to read putts and kind of what angles they lake for certain putts.” Varsity boys’ golf teams in the state of Michigan can open practice ^Monday. Woman accuses boyfriend of steering into a tree Police responded to a onc-car accident on Lindsey Road near 4 Mile Road in Prairieville Township at 11:45 p.m. Feb. 16. A van driven by a 37-year-old Plainwell woman with a 39-year-old Plainwell man in the passenger seat went off the road and hit a tree. The woman told first responders her boy friend jerked the wheel and sent lhe van off lhe road. The man. who had two warrants from Kalamazoo County for violating probation and pos­ session of cocaine, said he didn’t remember the crash but that he did not jerk lhe w heel. He also said the couple had been drinking and had done meth three days before. He had a 0.148 blood alcohol content. The woman was taken to the hospital. .After she was released, she told officers her boyfriend started yelling at her about herdriving and jerked the wheel. The man did not have a valid license. The case remains under investigation. Truck bed full of beer cans leads to OWI arrest An officer stopped a vehicle after the driver failed to yield to a stop sign at the comer of Green Lake and Cherry Valley roads in Thomapple Township al 11:27 p.m. March 6. The 22-year-old Hastings man said told the officer he’d had two beers before driving. However, he had several empty beer cans in the bed of bis truck, and an open case of beer in his rear seat. He then admitted lo having several beers and mixed drinks up to an hour before he drove. He had a blood alcohol content of 0.106 and was arrested. Burglars take furniture from pole barn A 76-year-old man called police to report a break-in at his property on Greggs Crossing near Devine Road March 4. A large pole bam was broken into with what appeared lo have been a tire iron that was located nearby. There was rust at the broken end of the lock, so the officer determined some time had passed since the burglary . The building looked lo have been ransacked, but the only items that appeared to have been taken were two wood­ en cabinets and a wooden chest. The case is inactive. Driver tries awkward method of hiding meth An officer stopped a vehicle being erratically operated in lhe I(X) block of East Colfax Street in Hastings at 6:16 p.m. March 5. The driver, a 61-year-old man, said his brakes weren’t working. He added he did not have a valid license. His passenger, a 52-year-old woman, did have a valid license, but the man said she did not know how to drive it when lhe brakes were malfunctioning. T he officer handcuffed and searched the man. The man was wearing pants underneath his overalls, but they had fallen below his knees, and lhe man told the officer he was not wearing underwear. The officer told lhe man he would be charged with a felony if he went to jail while attempting lo hide anything in his pants, and the man insisted he did not have anything illegal in his pants. When he arrived at the jail and was searched, a folded paper with methamphetamine was found in his pants. Ifie man said he did not know ii was in there. Man arrested after having ‘a couple' drinks An officer stopped a driver in the 400 block of North Broadway in Hastings al 2:05 p.m. March 7 alter seeing the vehicle swerve across the road. The 53-year-old male driver admitted to having "a couple” of drinks "a couple of hours ago.” He registered a 0.14 blood alcohol content and was arrested. ^MXRhTIUrCeof224inthe qualifying, a sing^n^^tid surpassed by the lOp Buktr 1 in qualifying C",X" - ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP 2020 Budget Public Hearing Notice IliiMiicw S< rvk e\ BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 yean, experience. Dry wall, fMinting, tile, flooring, trim, iome improvements. Dis­ count for Seniors & Veterans. 269-320-3890._____________ MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, While Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call tor pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut tires. Insured, liability &. workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. LAB PUPPIES, 1ST shots & wormed, chocolates and blacks. 517-726-0706.______ SIBERIAN HUSKY PUP­ PIES, 1st shots & wormed, very nice. 517-726-0706. Help Wanted GENERAL LABORER- JOB includes lilting and stacking lumber. Candidates must submit to and pass a pre-em­ ploy men t drug test. Starting wage $14.00 hour. Benefits, 401K and Vacation. Apply in person al 396 Main St, Sun­ field. MI 48890. tiiion. Michael W ’ iunior who won a regional chamni 1 s *1*rv’’ a\vious weekend, P.'aced35th wiPt?"hipthnoinfall»f • -I(IS games. k a‘l overall I .• 2^3. .. Trujan Senina a llig,h.fXlen iini'hed off h,s toe varsi 7 t,r Va"fIth'place score ?L-Ol6«'M^r'vdb^t’an1e.asa high poim to |f u pair ihe top । t0 the match P'“y Ponion 0/u>' with the cutoff at 1199°f the singles e'“"X W,x. ( C '0|> C Norll'1""1 Niuh Tafanelli «>">11101“l I"''’1’'’' "hip vh:unpjpnsn 1 The Orangesille Township Board will hold a Public Hearinii on the P™,. •. i u ■ . fiscal year 2020-2021 at the Orangeville Tow nship IlaII7 50 L nd.ev R m for 4W0: Tuesday March 24,2020 at 7:00P.M. 5 Rd- 1’tonwell Mt. Copv of the proposed budget will be available for nuhiir , office. I’he Orangeville Township Board will provide necesJX re! Tow»ship aids and services as required by the Disabilities Act. reasonable auxiliary Americans with Disabilities Actuating that if those with dknKJt. . within 10 days prior to lhe meeting,accommodations will be fumishe'd?11 clerk disabilities and allow nteantnglul attendance Individuals with'disabi ° swh auxiliary aids or services should contact the Clerk- Me) Rkn.,?i ltLtfs Marine ofiice- 269-664-1522. ',u Klit";r,Honie -269-672-2324 £5uir.in8 I homas Rook Supcn isor Oranges ille Township 616-299-6019 �■ ■ The Hastings Banner — Thursday. March 1?. 2020 Page 13 The M h-hngs Banner - i nur&o<iy. wvwi ..............- M Veitch goes out hono^g two state champs Sjn^-^^andClark^ k -~dj^§pn_both undefeated Brett Brvntcr •fywh Editor One after anothei. the first 447 medals w out on the t«., xt.1|K|Jin «* "■ ‘ •' 5 l,K‘cnd «'i'c at 1-01,1 I i ,| j •n)W'li Saturday. senior Grant ClatU,,, b front the top step and his (lc , 8t,t. \ettch placed the l.w of the ;|| “ to be awarded at the M|IS\\ )nj,.idual linals around the neck of hiskw pound-Division 3 state champion. 1 Veitch hugged Clarkson as besi h. . , . jrvund the ankles Iwtorc handing him'his bracket I he coach was performimj the eer. ,nOny ter the second lime Saturday having P^ed olt a state championship ,„cda| » senior Jon ( hick moments earlier ••It has hee.t a pleasure.- an emotional Seitch said after not only closing out the 2(ro Individual l-tnals. hut also -., 40-year coachin­ career ** ’ I coulil’.i t ask lor a belter 40 'lhe kids make ii I hat is what it is about । > y ,n’,lke<* the second time one of his V iking i«id two individuals earn slate champi­ onships on the same day. ('lack and Clarkson Torn X’lh .unde,calcd ‘inring the w inter of L ; '~0, Clack capturing the 189-pound division 3 title under the tutelage of Veitch, us co-head coach Tony Harmer and the rest the Viking staff, Lakewood had Eddie Phillips and Cody Dupont win individual state championships al 189 pounds and heavy­ weight in 2006. The Viking team had five individual state qualifiers this season, including two other medalists. Sophomore Zachary Gibson who placed Htih al 112 pounds and senior Kanon Atwell who was sixth at 119 pounds each earned their second stale medal. Junior Keegan VanAlstine competed in the 140pound w eight class. Clack is a three-time state medalist, and four-time state qualifier. His 6-4 win over Richmond’s Noah Montanari in the 189pound championship match moved his senior-season record to 52-0 and was the , y,irsity W|X>S1I 200th victory I vaiycr. ••1 trained hfL|fng- 1 w*s ju., "lth « smile. I had 11.4^ kncK’cl Ji,lkin? around smiling' r(ime state m Clarkson was third at hca , f 404) by ’. a8«. He finished his scnio* Tenj^ng « 5-2 win over Birch R * Wal,on in their 285-poU'id I nght •1 am on clow1» ..This h • I am really happy.” Clnrkson 5' ,r. J wc ' wen a goa| since my l'rc>,’"'.'‘ll|nv freeman y",/"!.11®11 Io Dob (Veilch) ally -j lo win a L’ O.r,*rc'" fling and said 1 ulj n0H / c Idle and we-re four years '"%ginary “ Opened.” Clack swung •*" sIanimcd i, “r 1»n>mer over his head and .he ,n;„ before pumping celebration of his victory. t, . k said ••It'S a classic. c'“c_ the celebra­ tion. “I docs so^e.| EOinE,° do? Someone a ham™ lne Clx’1They do something- 11K ‘“"W kind of fits He caught Mont^’^.® Padlock late in the first penod and P build a 4-0 lead. ou throughout their <> his back to an advantage championship match. . “1 was waiting ^or 8et out of posi­ tion.” Clack said. ”1 >ked upper body (wrestling). I knew his head wOu|d be dan­ gling. Also, J knew if ‘ nit it hard enough he Lakewood senior Jon Clack is congratulated by head coach Bob Veitch after being presented with his medal for winning Division 3’s 189-pound weight class at the Individual State Finals at Ford Field in Detroit Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) was going down. ”1 planned that all out. If something is there take it. and I took itA second-period reversal pushcd clack’s lead to 6-0. Both Lakewood guys in the finals took advantage of their openings, while their opponents may have missed one. To the cha­ grin of Veitch in his comer, Clack tried for another big throw with a 6-1 lead in the mid­ dle of that second period and missed, but he recovered to remain neutral for (jnK. being. Veitch was joined in the corner for the 189pound final by Clack’s father Jonathan Clack, who guessed he checked the clock about every other second throughout the second and third period of the final. Montanari got to within 6-4 with his second period escape, and an escape and a take down in the third period. “(Clack) got his one (throw) and we talked on strategy on how to go and stay neutral and how to not force things and to keep movement going.” Veitch said. “We knew the kid he was wrestling was not an offensive attacker, he is more of a defensive wrestler. We just had to make sure we were square. Both of them (Clack and Clarkson) had that. We just had to stay square, keep good positioning and noi go out of our realm, stay with what we have and what wc know- and stay basic. Success will come from that.” Clarkson wasn’t impatient, but was also ready when is opening appeared right aw-ay in lhe 285-pound final. He took Watson down 12 seconds into the opening period. Watson had an escape late in the first period and then another half a minute into the second to even the bout at 2-2. Clarkson got a quick escape in lhe third period to get his 3-2 lead, fought off a big shot with a minute to go. and then celebrated his state championship with a couple fists in the air and big hugs with Veitch and assistant coach Tim “Bubba” Grove. "1 think 1 outwrestled him,” Clarkson said. “He was smaller than me by a lot. and 1 think 1 overpowered him going to the upper-body. Lakewood senior Gran! Clarkson (back) works to take down Buch Run’s Terrance* West in Division 3's 285-pound state championship match Saturday at the Individual Slate Finals at Ford Field in Detroit. Clarkson scored a 5-2 victory to earn the state^ title. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ! Ik- didn’t try to do it with me.” Clarkson opened lhe tournament w ith a pair of pins, against Lake City’s Austin Potter and Madison Heights Bishop Foley’s Luke Bishop, to earn his spot in the Friday night semifinals. He said he improved his patience in lhe semifinal match, earning a 3-2 win over Richmond's Dan McKiernan. Clack also had two puis to dpen lhe tourna­ ment. sticking Chippewa Hills’ Chayton Wiggins and South Haven’s Jackson Calvert, He scored an 8-5 w in ox er Sanford Meridian’s Jimmy Miron in their semifinal bout. Gibson also earned the change to wrestle in the championship semifinals. He pinned Kingsley’s Justin Grahn to open the toumanient and then defeated Dundee’s Kaden Chinavare 6-2 in the quarterfinals. Richmond's Hunter Keller edged Gibson 6-5 in their semifinal match-up at 112 pounds, 'lhe two were lied 4-4 heading into the third period, after Keller managed to notch two near-fall points late in the second [leriod that Gibson recovered from with a reversal before the whistle. Gibson took lhe lead with an escape earl} in lhe third penod. but Keller scored a takedown with a little over a minute? to go and rode the clock out. Brennan McClelland from Annada edged > Gibson 1-0 in their consolation semifinal «• match, and then Gibson rebounded to close*/ oul lhe tournament with a 9-1 major decision ) against Millington’s Luke Sherman in ther. match for fifth place. . . . c Atwell secured bis second state medal with? his pin of Hopkins' Ashtyn Bennett in (he'i second round of consolation Friday and thenu improved his height on the 119-pound medal? stand u ith a 4-2 victory over Montague’s Cale Coppess lo open the day Saturday. Atwell fell in his Final two matches of the tournament, to# Clawson’s Allan Davis and Portland’s Caidemi Pelc. The Vikings 119-pounder opened action/ Friday with a 4-2 win over Dundee’s Jacob? Fenbert. but then fell 6-3 to Richmond’s JDGross in lhe championship quarterfinals ton move into lhe consolation bracket. j VanAlstine. who hat! 30 wins on the sea-? son. was bested by .Almont’s Mathew Dwyer.i and Benzie Central’s Sampson Ross in his/ two bouts. . TK practice partners secure nornapple l<(;!lo-l<’ ^n'v^wry after 3Son has an arm raised .n , 11-2 win over Dctro nih Marcus Sirnth in the n atchf(]dwe.ght Division 2 j lais hosted by Ford Field in ’Photo by Brnlt Bremer) Qtnte Brett Bremer Sports Editor Facing talented wrestlers is nothing new' for Thomapple Kellogg sophomore 103-pounder Ashton Corson and freshman 112-pounder Zack Gibson. They do it all season long in practice. “Me and Zack right here are drill partners at practice. We're constantly making each other better.” Corson said on the infield al Ford Field m downtown Detroit Saturday as the pair awaited their turn to lake the medal stand at the Individual Slate Finals. “Hunter Pitsch, our other 103. he works hard constantly at practice. We just strive to make each other better every* day.” All three of those lightweights from the Trojan varsity wrestling team qualified for the Division 2 Individual State Finals, and Corson and Gibson both went 3-2 lo finish in seventh place in their respective weight class­ es over the weekend. TK had five wrestlers in all al the finals, with 125-poundcr Kyron Zoct and 145 pounder Matthew Middleton competing at rhe home of the Detroit Lions as well. Zoet, Middleton and Pitsch each man­ aged to win one match. Gibson said that facing Corson day in and day out has made much better in scrambling situations over the past few months, but he didn’t really get to pul that skill into play much at the finals Gibson pinned his first foe. Stevensville Lakeshore’s Cameron Litaker in the 112-pound bracket, but then ran into a defending state champion. St. John’s Jacob Brya. who won the 103 pound weight class in Division 2 as a fresh­ man in 2019, added to his undefeated 2020 record by scoring a 17-2 win over Gibson in the quarterfinals Friday. “He is really gocxf.and he wrestles all year long.’ Gibson said “I just wanted lo go out there and wrestle and see how 1 compared against him. I see where I need to be in lhe next couple years.” He said the match taught him how much he needs to improve his hand fighting and his ability to set up shots in the future. Bry a went on to win the weight class for his second state championship, completing a 41-0 season and upping his varsity career record to 83-2. Gibson bounced back to secure his spot on the slate medal stand by earning a 4-3 win in the second round of consolation against Marquette’s Joe LagroU. Gibson fell 6-3 to Melvindale’s Musa Yahia in his next match, then finished off the tournament with an H‘- win over Detroit Mumford’s Ja*Marcus Smith in lhe ma|ch for / '.JI seventh place. , Corson pinned Fcnt0Il’ Kendra Ryan to open lhe tournament at 103 pounds, and then suffered a lough 2-1 loss to Mason’s lay den Miller in the quarterfinals. “He got (he first <<«*n bul! was finc because I knew I could get uff lhe bottom I got off the bottom and 1 tried takil ’ allots, but I just could" t finish... ('orwi| said Of his quarterfinal maun- l he t,lne < k । J" Gibraltar i i^3-pounder rebounded to beat Cobra tar Ciir|So , , . WaUaeeJr. !4-3 in ri)unJ solation to guarantee mmscii a Niles’ Mike Robles bes ed ( modalnext round Cotson debated w Wix^ lower s Tyler Da""-1 */ , " 'he match lor seventh place at their J . • Corson closes the year with a ,8 s Gibson was 35-6. Call anv time to place your ; Hastings Banner classified ad 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 �Page 14 — Thursday. Match 12.2020 — The Hasnngt; Banner Offensive woes limit Lions in district semifinal Brett Bremer Sportx Editor ' The Lions were competitive when the could put the ball in lhe basket, but it didn’t happen often enough Wednesday. District hoM Kalamazoo Christian bested the Lions 47-26 in the Division 3 District .Semifinals. The Maple Valley varsity girls basketball team made just 8-of-44 field goal attempts, and just one of 12 three-point tries ,in the contest. None of those eight makes came in the .'opening quarter. as the Comets built a 14 <) 'lead. ■ “We just couldn't buy a bucket.” Lion head ‘coach Ijmdon Wilkes. “I knew front watching them and front some of the research we had done as a group that they were long. They weren’t the tallest group, but that length really •got to us. The) pushed us out away front the •basket, and we struggled to do some sluff. and we did some very uncharacteristic things .early on.’’ ; “We didn't attack lhe basket like we had here recently. The) blocked a few shots early on. and then we got lo the point where we got • really timid to shoot the ball.” ’ I’hc Lions struggled with that a big early in ‘the season, but had been working to be mon;aggressive on the offensive end. Maple Valle) outscored lhe Comets over the next 16 minutes. The Lions went into the .‘fourth quarter down 29-20 after Alison .‘McGlocklin pulled down an offensive rebound ;and found Ashlyn Wilkes for her team’s one three with 30 seconds left tn the third quarter. * I think wc got into a little bit of a rhythm. We moved the ball a little bit better and we Maple Valley junior guard Ashlyn Wilkes tries to shake Kalamazoo Christian’s ,attacked the basket.” coach Wilkes said. He said that good things happen when his 1Madison Ling at lhe top of the key Wednesday in Kalamazoo. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ;girls attack the basket, but too often the Lions started try ing to rely on their jump shots. •' The Lions hit just one of nine field goal and Medina added two blocks and two long season to win two games and keep com­ ‘attempts through the first five and a half min* rebounds. ing back and battling. They never quit, and 1 .utes of the fourth quarter though, despite get­ Kalamazoo Christian got a dozen points promised I’d never quit on them. We all ting some belter shots than they had been each from Avery Ekkcns and Carley played til the bitter end.” coach Wilkes said. early on. The Comets went on an 8-0 run to Broekhuizen. Delton Kellogg had similar struggles trying extend their lead. Maple Valley closes the season with a 2-17 to score in the second district semifinal Ashlyn Wilkes, a junior, finished the night record. Wednesday at Kalamazoo Christian, falling w ith nine points for the Lions. Trista Medina, Moore was one of three seniors on the Lion 42-22 to Hackett Catholic Prep. another junior, finished with six points. Senior roster this winter, joining Kelsey Meyers and Hackett improved to 20-4 on the season forward Jiliann Moore had three points. Nautica Burkett. with a 44-27 win over Kalamzoo Christian Wilkes and Medina had five rebounds each. ’’They worked hard all year long. It is a (15-8) in the district final Friday. Maple Valley's Cassie McCool gets a shot up as she’s hit by Kalamazoo Christian's Avery Ekkens during their Division 3 District Semifinal at Kalamazoo Christian High School Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Vikings beat rival Eagles in district opener .at Olivet t>._r» _ — — - - Brett- Bremer Sports Editor Lakewood head coach Chris Duits wasn’t too worried about his guys being ready for Greater L-ansing Activities Conference foe Olivet in Monday’s Division 2 District opener hosted bv the Eagles. lhe Vikings struggled in an 84-56 loss to a Pennfield to close lhe regular season in Battle Creek Thursday, but bounced back for a 57-41 win over the Olivet boys lo open lhe slate tournament Monday. After winning three straight ballgames to open the month of February, the Vikings were just 1-5 the rest of the way to close out an 8-12 regular season campaign. The Vikings Lakewood guard Denny Sauers lades away for a iumo shot in lhe regular season finale at Pennfield Thursday. (Pholo by Brett Bremer)63"18 °SS had plans to take Friday off after the tough loss. “We’re coming back in Sunday. Olivet is one of those where you don’t have to try to motivate the guys, because everybody hales Olivet,” Duits said after Thursday's defeat. “It doesn’t matter if we have already beaten them twice. We want to beat them a third time The guys are very motivated by that. The regular .season is behind us, we’re just looking for­ ward to making some noise in lhe districts. One game at a time. The guys are still very upbeat, even though wc didn’t end the season well, there are still some things to play for.” Lakewood took control of Monday’s dis­ trict opener in the second half, putting togeth­ er a 20-11 third-quarter run. Bryant Makley hit five three-pointers and finished with a game-high 24 points for the Vikings. Jacob Elenbaas had 20 points, including eight in that third-quarter surge. Jayce Cusack chipped in ten points for l-akewood. Olivet got 14 points from Joey Collins and ten points from Cam Webb. The Vikings were scheduled to face Charlotte in the district semifinals back at Olivet High School last night. The district final is set for Friday. Pennfield built a 42-32 lend in the first half Thursday evening, combining steady defen­ sive pressure with an offense that took advan­ tage of every transition opportunity available. The Panther lead grew to as many as 16 points in the third quarter, before a buzzer beater by Makley got his team back within ten points momentarily. “Sometimes wc can get a line-up out there where we can |he pressure decently, but once we have trouble getting into our olfense that is where we struggle the most." Duits said. "If tl) pressure our wings, or our guards, we really struggle to get into an offense and wc’re Ilol athletic enough to just Hat out beat somebody off lhe dribble. We're belter when we w„ a structured offense rather man freelancing " There wasn-, a ., ing to be positive about 0"*^‘'efensiVe^hXr Thursday. Pennfield got 2, iats each front Ryne Petersen and Luke D Ms. and 16 from Shaun Gardner. 17,1 Lakewood g(n n -.ants from Elenbaas, 14 Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads A,..-*/ I - •. ■.„ -'.V Lakewood guard Jayce Cusack works his way around pressure trom Pennfield's Shaun Gardner at mid-court during their regular season finale in Battle Creek Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ’ K �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. Maron 12. 2020 — Page J 5 Wyoming guys get third win Over Thornapple Kellogg Brett Bremer Breit Sports Editor Mixed in the disappoint^ of a tontr. jefvat to ojx-n the slate postseason, J* ^nenis of high scltool kids just h playing basketball Tuesday night S : nmroapple Kellogg junior Atlslill t0 slap hands wnh Wyont,ng junior p ^n' 1* after VanElst picked Up what he fellhke a phantom oul defending Lee in the mid. ■Jlc of the thud quarter. Trojan junior Levi VsndrrHeide mtxed sharing some smiles with the Wolves and swinging elbows while bat tling for balls. 1 The OK Gold Conference champions from Wyoming pushed their season record to 19™ with their third win over lhe Trojans, bestin., the TK varsity boys’ basketball team 93-49 the Di',|s,°n 1 77lritl °Pen,;r >n Middleville Monday. The Wolves entered lhe final week ;of the regular season ranked tenth in the state ’in Division 1. Senior Nathan Jansma scored the final points of the season for the TK team, knock­ ing down a three-pointer in the final minute It |was his second triple of the fourth quarter He was the lone TK senior able to take the court this winter, with injured classmate Colson Brummel contributing from the sidelines throughout the season. ; "Those two guys can walk out of the TK basketball program as a player and know that they have no regrets. 1 hey are great examples of what we want from our basketball players. It is great for our juniors to be able to see these guy’s,” TK head coach Josh Thaler said. Wyoming started pulling away in the sec­ ond half of the first quarter Monday, closing out the period on an 18-4 run highlighted by a couple of threes from Carlo Bass and one from Diego Ledesma. The Wolves hit 15 three-pointers in the game - getting them in transition, getting them after offensive rebounds, and getting them in the flow of their spread offense. . "The style they play, wc have to try to slow them down and it is tough to slow that team down,” Thaler said. Ledesma and Menalito McGee hit four threes each. Lcdsesma finished with a gamehigh 23 points. McGee had 16 points. The .Wolves also got nine points from Bass, eight from Jeremy Barber and nine from Joshua Antey. On the offensive end of the floor. Thaler thought his guys did a much better job in the half-court offense this time around against the Mm -A ■fa Wyoming’s TJ Chandler pulls a rebound down before Thornapple Kellogg’s Austin VanElst can get to it during the first half of their Division 1 District opener Monday in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) IBM*Thornapple Kellogg junior guard Cole Shoebridge has a shot altered by Wyoming s Marion Parks during the first half of the- Wolves win in Middleville Monday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Wolves. VanElst ledTK with 12 points. VanderHeide had II. Cole Shoobridge eight and Jansma six. W j uming was set to lake on East Kentwood in the district semifinals in Middleville last night. The Falcons scored a double overtime win at Caledonia to start the postseason Monday. Ottawa Hills and Fast Grand Rapids were slated to meet in the district’s other dis­ trict semifinal match-up. Wednesday’s win­ ners meet Friday night back in Middleville. Pottemlle piste Potterville improved to 16-5 on the season with a 70-44 over the Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball team in the Division 3 District opener at Pewamo-Westphalia Monday. Cole Krause led the Vikings with 17 points and nine rebounds in the win. Nate Ackley and Jakob Jenkins had 12 points each for Potterville. The Panthers end the season with a 9-12 record. Senior guard Thomas Sheldon poured in 19 points for Delton Kellogg, and fellow senior Richard Hill added ten points. 'Die Vikings held Panther senior center Dawson Grizzle lo five points and nine rebounds. Hill also had a team-high six assists in the loss. Junior Blake Thomas had seven rebounds r' forDK. , Fennville bested the visiting Delton Kellogg boys in their regular season finale last Thursday, 56-45. "We could not gel the ball to bounce our way” DK head coach Jason Howland said after he loss. "We were unable to make a free throw the entire game, shot 1-for-12 from three. turned the ball over way too many times, and only pul up four points in the sec- B Hastings | Banner on Facebook to? keep up to date until the; Delton Kellogg senior center Dawson Grizzle drives baseline during his , ~~ Division 3 District opener against Potterville at Pewamo-Westphal* Hi J®’’"1* Monday. (Photo by Porry Hardin) ’ J School TTT^.ard Blake Thomas leans into a Potterville defender as he goes in Dellon Kellogg 9 Division 3 District opener at Pewamo Westphalia High School for a lav-up dunng t»'«u Monday. (Photo by Petty Hardt ) I new edition ond quarter. “lhe boys stayed in the game and worked hard.” DK were within six poinh late in the thiid quarter before a couple of DK turnover allowed Fennville lo push its advantage back to double figures. Grizzle had ten points and six rebounds tor the Panthers ’I homas finished with ten points. Sheldon. Hill and Payton Smoczyibki chipped in six points each. See us for Co|or copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N- M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �Page 16 - llwsday. Match 12.2020 - The Hustings Banner Trick takes fifth in first finals trip the first round of consolation and then notched Brett Bremer a 5-4 victory over Josh Brott from Gibraltar ! Sports Editor Carlson in the second round of consolation. ; Saxon senior Gabc Trick shook oft the but- He secured his state medal Friday by pinning I terflics in the opening round, and 'ke hr. has Southgate Anderson’s Isaac ,Stench in lhe ‘throughout lhe season he finished strong »t third round of consolation. ‘the Division 2 Individual Wrestling lin.t s He was pinned by Edwardsburg s Jackson ■over the weekend al Eonl Field in Uetro't. Hoover in the second period of their consola­ ! Dick captured the fifth place medal tn the tion .semifinal match, then bounced back to 1140-pound weight class, upping h« sen.or-sea- beat Goodrich's Carsen Richards 7-4 in the Ison reconi to 40-11 by going 4 2 in hi.s six 'in ttchcs Fridas and Saturday m his first match for fifth place. Hastings head coach Darrell Slaughter said ■appearance in the state finals. He had to battle Trick was a talented youth wrestler, but he : all the way through lhe consolation bracket to chose to play basketball during his first two earn his >pot on lhe medal stand. years of high school. He returned to wrestling ‘ Trick was pinned by Jackson Northwest .% ‘Zachan- Jacobs halfway through the third a vear ago, and the Saxon coach thought that time away probably helped Trick avoid some •period of their opening round match Friday. It of the pitfalls other wrestlers may experience £as a tie breaker of sorts. Jacobs got Trick in iheir team’s Interstatc-8 -Athletic Conference when it comes to focusing on rankings and Jriihi! this season, but Trick got his revenge m opponents. “He exceeded expectations. We always ,<he semifinals of the conference tournament knew he had the ability.” Slaughter said. *last month. Trick had to rally in the last half minute of •’ "I cot it all out. 1 got lhe nerves for the loss Kill out and then I knew how it felt and I didn’t his medal round match-with Richards. I rick took a 3-0 lead with a first period take down Svant to feel that way again,” Trick said. < “1 had to recover from that one and attack and an escape point at lhe start of the third period. Trick rode Richards throughout the Jibe second one.” length of the second period. ’■ Trick beat Tecumseh’s Lucas Pelt 11-2 in “All the in practice, it really ^Ips. (onditi* WC dt big Pnr1-1 oul,as,cd n ,Ot °f m>‘ sa,tl- “A lot moves, but 1 ‘with my energy.” Trick b *crc better than me in , T. they had the stamina wins-71,1,1 mal!es '<>r a mcmorabi . Because 0( lh „■ .hilfds surprised Inck a bu with his t;g)1( ' K ,|,ird period. Richards scored a take ^h.(h 52 seconds left to gel withm 3-2. and cvcncd the match with a second lakedow willl 33 seconds remaining. "1 didn't think he was C-<,in<! 10 lhal fasI" Frick said. kj "d ()f ttOke me up a little bit when he gut lL|| . [ knew he was still tn ft and anythin,, was possible " lock managed a take down with 18 sec­ onds left on ihtt clock and then held on top to secure the win. “I had four kids that didn’t miss a thing this year, including Christmas practices, and he is one of them,” Slaurhter said. “It shows hard work pays off* b The group a|so jnduded Robby Slaughter. Mason Denton and Tyler Dull- Hastings senior Gabe Trick (right) works to score a take down during the third period ol their medal round match in Division 2's 140-pound weight class Saturday at the Individual State Finals hosted by Ford Field in Detroit. Trick scored a 7-4 win to finish fifth. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Second trip to Detroit ^smoother for DK’s Belew Brett Bremer Sports Editor Dellon Kellogg junior Hunter Belew pul •Decatur’s Jared Checkley to his back with a lateral drop during lhe second period of their i Division 4 171-pound medal round match al [the Individual State Finals at Ford Field in ’Detroit Saturday. f The five-point move dug Belew out of a •5-1 hole. ■ Checkley managed to get off the mat and reven the match at 6-6 before the end of the jperiod, but Belew got his escape from the bottom position in the their period and then managed the rest of lhe lime for a 7-6 victory' and the fifth-place spot on lhe all-state medal Stand. Belew finished off the season with a 44-6 record with the win. He was 3-2 over lhe course of the weekend, winning his way to the championship semifinals before being bumped into lhe consolation bracket. “It was a a lot of hard work," Belew said. , Having qualified for the state finals as a sophomore helped him out tremendously. He said he went to the finals fairly nervous as a sophomore and lost his only two matches. He’s expecting this year’s experience to help him push for a state championship in his senior season. His nerves came back a bit for his semifinal match, an 11 -2 loss to Raydcn Randolph from Clinton who went on to finish as the state runner-up. “It was really cool. It is a lot though. There is a lol going on (at lhe Friday night semifinal round)." Belew said. “Right before the match, it hit me: l‘m in the semifinals right now. If I win this I could be wrestling in the finals." Belew got to that semifinal match by pin­ ning Manchester’s Derek Guenther and then scoring a 12-3 major decision over Pine River’s Austin Wuesten in his first two match­ es. Brown City’s Josh Pasco pinned Belew in lhe third period of their consolation semifinal bout Saturday morning. Belew said his mind wasn’t right for that Saturday opener after the semifinal defeat. He would have liked to have placed in the lop four, but was happy to close out his tourna­ ment nin with lhe victory in the fifth-place match. Wuesten’s Pine River teammale Brock Nelson won Division 4’s 171-pound weight class by besting Randolph 3-2 in the champi­ onship match. Delton Kellogg junior Hunter Belew (left) tries to fight out of the grasp of Brown City’s Josh Pasco during the third period of their consolation semifinal match in Division 4’s 171-pound weight class Saturday at Ford Field. Belew fell to Paso but rebounded to place fifth at his weight class at lhe Individual State Finals. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brumm rebounds from tough semifinal defeat Pair of Maple Valley boys medal at D4 Finals Brett Bremer Sports Editor ■ Barely half a minute into Saturday's Division 4 130-pound semifinal with Manchester’s Jacob Shelby, Maple Valley junior Jesse Brumm found himself in a 1-0 hole. Brumm was whistled for a technical viola­ tion for hands to lhe face as he tried to set up a shot, a slap to lhe head that lhe referee fell caught too much face.. That one point proved to be lhe difference between wrestling for a first place medal for the second lime and wrestling for a third place medal. Brumm got a quick escape in the sec­ ond period and Shelby manged one midway through the third period. Shelby held on from there for a 2-1 win. “Going in we knew it was going to be 1-1 or (hereabouts," Maple Valley varsity wres­ tling coach Tony Wawiemia said. "We were hoping for take downs, because the kid is always on defense. (Brumm) was going after it, but the kid was locking up on his shots and Jesse couldn’t finish anything." What Brumm did after that defeat is whal makes him special. He kept working his way up the medal stand, eventually finishing third - his third state medal in three varsity seasons. Brumm wasn’t alone on the medal stand for lhe Lions as senior Gage Ertman placed eighth in the 103-pound weight class in his first trip to the Individual Slate Finals. Wawiemia wasn’t surprised by Brumm taking the disappointing defeat in stride. ‘‘He is always that way with anything con­ troversial." Wawiemia said. “All right, it happened. I’m over it. Now, lets move on. He has been great about that the last two years. Maple Valley senior Gage Ertman looks out from the medal stand after placing eighth in Division 4’s 103-pound weight class over the weekend at the Individual State Finals at Ford Field in Detroit. (Photo by Brott Bremer) « Maple Valley junior Jesse Brumm (right) pushes for a take down in his 4-2 win over Now 'third place in Division 4’s 130-pound weight class Saturday at the Individual State Finals hosted h f Broil Bremer) Z -----—:—’---------- 7/ Wolfo^in thB ™lch °r Fjeid in Detroit. (Photo by I’ve got no problem with that. He’s a good kid." Brumm was second in the state at his weight class as a freshman and placed sixth a year ago. He scored an 8-1 win over Hart’s Chance Alvesteffer in the consolation semifi­ nals Saturday morning and then earned the ihird’place state medal with a 4-2 sudden victory against New Uuhrop’s Alex Wolfonl. Brumm scored a reversal in the second ixrtiud of his match with Wolford to take the lead in lhe medal round match-up. Wolford managed a last second escape from the bob tom that proved crucial, then got an escape point early in lhe thiid period to even the bout at 2-2. Wolford fought off Brumm’s attacks throughout the match, until Brumm ns finally able to break through in lhe first one-minute sudden victory* round to score a take down with 22 seconds left on lhe clock and clinch the victory. Brumm opened lhe tournament with an 8-0 win over Leslie’s Cannon Risner and then defeated Addison’s Brendan Ford 7-1 in lhe championship quarterfinals. The parade of champions, where all the wrestlers march around the mats before the tournament had Ertman in awe a little bit, but it was old hat for Brumm. Ertman. a senior who took his junior season off from wrestling, said he felt like he was walking around, or riding the electric scooters around outside lhe arena, with a celebrity all weekend. “Everybody knows who (Brumm) is. Everybody,” Ertman said. “He talks to so many people. People come up to him and ask. how have you been doing this year and stuff like that lie knows everybody. Everyone ^•4'Y wh» he is and is asking about him and Sluff like that. Having never qualified for the slate finals before, Enman hadn't built up that kind of a reputation yet He said lhe desire to wrestle in hm K StJ!V Hni,ls ":,s whal brought him back to wrestling this winter. Ertman opened the tournament with a win oyer Uwton’s Dustin Mallory, then gtrt pinned by Bradley Hall from Rudyard in die st ite m d 7I'C l '°n scn'or secured his H 7 P"""',e Kcm Cil> 's Za">; Kirk match ,C,r SCCOnd r0Und Of co"«>lation Enman was bested in his two matches Saturday, by New Uithrop's Daven I ockwtxxf V "^u;D?ll?Plbb,-''‘'nnishe“ ouabfi ' s At yB *WO1°,ber ‘"freidual state ttw Shgh^Ml" Bodi7' ,,OUndS ',nd Friday. B guys Wcre ° - Brumm and Ertman each closed the season with more than 40 victor;. n 1 >On record nf tx < > t?,u°ne>. Brumm with a acord ot 48-2 and Ertman at 41 -11. We if eX the J* wrestled hard. We're proud ^the^.“ k‘dS �♦ ..V* &f . The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 12. 2020 — Pago 17 nm-iietl starts fast, wearsjjown DK girls in district > Delton Kellogg head coach Mike Mohn talks things over with guard Abbie Sever as she heads to the bench during a break in Wednesday s Division 3 District Semifinal against Hackett Catholic Prep at Kalamazoo Christian High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Editor The Panthers were never able to get a han­ dle on Hackett this season. The Delton Kellogg varsity girls* basket­ ball team suffered its third loss of the season to the Fighting Iiish Wednesday as it was bested 42-22 in the Division 3 District Semifinals at Kalamazoo Christian High School. The Irish won their two Southwestern Athletic Conference \alley Division match­ ups by an average ol 1? points. The difference Wednesday was that the Delton Kellogg girls real!) struggled to put the ball in the basket. “I think wc played a little scared in that first quarter. We’re looking at (Krystina Kasson) instead of looking a! lhe hoop." DK head coach M’ke Mohn said. “Wc had a little meet­ ing there, and then Erin (Kapteyn) kind of figured it out. She had that little spurt in the second quarter. Wc cut it to nine and then cut it to eight, and I thought well maybe we’ve arrived, and then ve kind o! got silly wuf» it Hackett Catholic Prep*., big sophomore center Ka son was a beast on both ends of her team, protaelmg the rim on defense and put­ Dellon Kellogg guard Mary Whitmore attacks the basket during her team’s loss to Hackett Catholic Prep in the Division 3 District Semifinal Wednesday at Kalamazoo Christian High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ting in a game-high 23 points on the other end. She had nine points in lhe first quarterns her team pushed out to a 16-3 lead. Dellon Kellogg got back to within 20-12 by the half, but that was as closed as they’d get the rest of the evening. ''They’re a pretty good team. They really press the issue,” Mohn said. "T hey make you have to be relentless. That is the first time I have seen our kids tired like lhal. I don’t know if it was just the emotion or if it was that it " Delton Kellogg’s Holly McManus (left) and Erin Kapteyn try to slow down Hackett Catholic Prep center Krystina Kasson in the post Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) was the last game for most of our team, what­ ever it is. Who knows lhe answer? We just had Tobias and foreign exchange student Eva through the stale tournament. They bested some kids going. I’ve got nothing left in the Fernandez. Villalobos who showed some district host Kalamazoo Christian 44-27 in lhe moments of fire not wanting to see her Delton district final Friday and beat Niles Brandywine tank." in lhe regional semifinals at Schoolcraft Holly McManus led Delton Kellogg with Kellogg basketball time come to an end. The DK girls fought to win four of their Tuesday 49-43. eight points, knocking down two three-point­ Hackett is set to face 21-2 Schoolcraft in ers. Kapteyn finished with seven points and final games of the regular season, including their final three, to close out a 6-6 SAC Valley the regional final tonight. The Eagles won Mary' Whitmore five. Kaptey n did her best to use her athleticism campaign and guarantee themselves a win­ both SAC Valley ballgames between the two teams this season. to keep Kasson under control in the post. She ning record overall for the season. 'I lie I lackett girls are now 20-4, still rolling was spelled here and there by senior Katie on Sensor Night Greg Chandler Staff writer Kirby Beck hit a‘3-point basket on the first possession of overtime Thursday, then blocked a Hamilton 3-|X)inl shot as time expired as the Hastings varsity boy s’ basket­ ball team gutted out a 59-57 nun-conference victory over the Hawkeyes on Senior Night at Hastings High School. The Saxons finished the regular season with an 8 12 record, but had their season ended with a loss to South Christian to open pair of 3-pointers and finished with eight points. Logan Zoerhof led Hamilton with 14 points, including four 3-pointers. The Saxons limited Jager Haverdink, the Hawkeyes’ lead­ ing scorer, r. to just jus! one field goal and eight points, less than half his season average. • Other eniors honored on “ - includ• - . Thursday Fr.m/olini. Elijah Smith. Evan Murphy and J P. SaintAmour. South Christian jumped out to a 20-9 lead in its Division 2 District opener against the Saxons in Hastings Monday and then went on district play Monday. Hastings went on a 16-0 run over a sev­ en-minute stretch of the second half to open up a 47-36 lead with 3:48 remaining in regu­ lation last Thursday. But lhe visiting Hawkeyes responded with a 15-2 spurt, fueled by a full­ court press, to take a 51-49 lead on two free throws by Tyler Stezowski with 305 seconds remaining. 'file Saxons tied it al 51 -all on a contested layup by junior Evan Eastman with 135 sec­ onds remaining, sending lhe contest into over- Tlie Saxons’ Kirby Bec^ goes in to lay a shot off the glass in front of Hamilton’s Brant Goodpaster during the regular season finale at Hastings High School Thursday. (Photo by PerrV Hardin) lime. Eastman had a hufe P-mic for HaS(jni,s pouring in 25 poinb u,Kl grabbing 16 rebounds. ’’Hamilton ran two and guys at him and just tried to throw Imn down at times." Saxons’ coach Rich l^ng ; He never Iom his cool and just kept oiHworkIng tllein .. Beck scored five of hJS Points m OVcr tunc, and blocked the nl,aI game-winmne 3-point try by Hamih°n 5 Bra°l GoodpaMci to preserve the win. Beck tnade G n|- x }k)jn the free-throw line, f ‘‘Ppon, one o, five Saxons hononxl »vntor Njg|n a to a 58-40 w in. "Wc didn't play our best game, but played decent." coach Long said. "Elijah Smith real­ ly played well for us as a point guard and floor genend. He made a lot of good decisions of when to shoot and when to pass. Our sec­ ond quarter was not good for us. We had multiple turnovers that led to easy buckets and no shot attempts for us. They also attacked the offensive glass with their height." T he Sailors extended their lead with a 12-7 second quarter, going.up 32-16 at the half. Connor Dykema led South Christian with 13 points and Sain‘^feengs added ten. IV Rynbr.uidt chipped in nine points and Ryan -keina also had a game-high fl PM Bc/x I inrfy toxtatu'l - Diitrict FmUs Q Hntbjs /. . *.1 • ■ SftTJ.’PrMr MA62f!4 • .V 6AA Snip Kv'i An’/ Home Artiy nine rebounds. Evan Eastman led the Saxons with 19 points and five rebounds. Beck had seven points and Braden Vertalkn six. “Eastman had another great game and scored consistently throughout lhe game, but w;is dominant in the third period, cutting the lead down to ten points," coach Long said. "Eastman has been improving dady. He con­ tinues to gain self confidence and understands how to use his athleticism. We are really look­ ing forward lo watching him grow into a senior." Hie win over the Saxons was the seventh straight for the South Christian boys, a run that included a 53-35 win over Grand Rapids Christian in the last week of February. "South’s defense is very solid." Long said. "I asked their coach before the game how they held Grand Rapids Christian lo only 35 points and their second loss of lhe year and he responded with, our defense is playing really well right now." The Sailors were set to pul that defense 10 the test again in a district semifinal ballgame with Wayland last night back at Hastings High School. 300 » 5 00 PM i© .t->r \tti See?:.' • tty$) HS 6'30 (Zamty Socte ■ tts.jo hs Awjy wsmma 3 00 PM C © Vdrvt)- 7rx'« • SVSV 'nv. Autuourtfir 24H0UB 384 Haynes Loop Dr., Hastings TOWING 269-945-7777 L ^o»nv * COLLISiON . body REPAIR * MECHANICAL REPAIR ♦ TIRE SALES • Place vour Hastings Banner ad Call 269-945.9554 or 1-800-870-7085 any time Hardin) �- Pago 18 — Thursday. March 12, Hastings FFA members take part in state convention Seniors Haylee VanSyckle (left) and Emily Mitchell receive State FFA degrees i ' t * K.'. Gathering for a group photo at MSU during the 93rd Michigan FFA convention are Hastings FFA members (seated, from left) Ryan VanDorp, Kaylie Carl, Keegan Lindsey, Heath Hays; (standing, middle row) Katie Clark, Addison Horrmann, Elaina James, Hayley VanSyckle; (back) Emily Mitchell, Kayla Willard, Jade Hunter. Aydria Willard, Breanna Willard. Emma White. Michael VanDorp, Emily Roe and Faith Beede. (Missing from photo are Diego Coipel, Trey Casey and Wade Pennington) Meeting requirements for the Outstanding Junior awards are (kneeling) Wade Pennington, (back, from left) Jade Hunter, Kayla Willard, Addison Horrmann, Emma White and Michael VanDorp. . ; Haylee VanSyckle accepts the National f FA Silver Chapter Award on behalf of the Hastings FFA program. < Several Hastings FFA members attended the 92nd FFA Slate Convention al Michigan State University March 4-6, taking pan in Various ways. ? High school students participated in FFA State Band or took on responsibility as delegates. Several received honor*, such as Qutslanding Junior awards, state degrees or National Chapter Award. A team of middle School students competed in the Junior High Conduct of Meetings competition, placing third in lhe stale with a Silver award. . The group took in some special stops, inch its Preuss Pets and the Breslin Center, Faith Beede (from left). Elaina James and Katie Clark serve as delegates at the 93rd annual Michigan FFA convention last week. (Photos provided) home of MSU Spartans basketball. At the Breslin Center, some Hastings students ran into a few Michigan State basketball players, who stopped for a photo. “Memories and friendships were made, goals have been set. and this chapter is ready for next year.” Hastings FFA advisor Andria Mayack said. FFA is a national organization that aims to develop student leadership. personal growth and career success and is one nation's largest student leadership programs. Hastings High School students who performed with the Michigan FFA Band include (from left) Emma White, Michael VanDorp. Addison Horrmann and Breanna Willard. POSITIONS AVAILABLE AT BRONSON BATTLE CREEK HOSPITAL Saturday. March 21 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bronson Battle Creek Outpatient Center 300 North Ave., Battle Creek, Ml 49015 Acute Care Assistants a u.fc Cooks Environmental Service Associates Medical Assistants Phlebotomists Registered Nurses First Assist (RNFA) Registered Nurses (at least 1 year of experience required) Surgical Technologist Surgical Technologist - First Assist Telemetry Technicians >nnnuisi Learn more about available positions at bronsonheafth.com/careers • he Jf Hint. ..duct of Meetings team representing Hastings Middle School received a inmo .. . C^,d Pictured are (front row. from left) Ryan VanDorp, Kaylie Carl, Keegan linJX^Z"s ,hi,d P'ace Silver ipel' Aydr'a’^d and Heath Hays. 9 L ndse*- (back) Trey Casey, Diego � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-03-19.pdf b342e4d1cfd59d0e39aeb780a97b5e1f PDF Text Text Schools enacting food distribution plan See Story on Pave 3 Coronavirus ;s teaching lessons See Editor^1 °h Page 4 L Barry-Roubaix moves to autumn See Story on Page 16 ■me £-.r.r im i'inmi rurrrr t nr~-nrfrrTrri—i------ :— 1070490102590501975749058113421 ANNER Thursday. MprEjn9, 2020 Cancellations due to COVID-19 Notifications and updates continue to be sent to J-Ad Graphics. Below are local closure notifications received as of Wednesday afternoon. Burry County - trial court operations will remain available: however, buildings were closed to the public Wednesday and will remain so through Sunday. April 5. Anyone requiring county services must cal! the respective office before traveling to a county building. Where feasible, services will be conducted alternatively (online or by telephone) or delayed. Individuals should contact the applicable officer or court to determine how their business or service will be handled. The county’s main telephone number is 269-945-1400, and a directory of departments and individuals is available by dialing that number. Il business must be conducted in person, appointments are required Anyone with scheduled appointments may be screened upon entering the building. The website bnrrycounty.org has ! additional information regarding department services, as well as updates on the status of county operations. Barry County Chamber of Commerce aud Economic Development Alliance The chamber and Alliance offices are • closed. A link to resources is available | through the website mibarry.com/covid-J9resources'’. Business owners looking to redeem Barry Bucks may mail them to the chamber office. 221. W. State St., Hastings. 49058. and a receipt will be emailed. • The Annual Administrative ’ Professionals Appreciation Luncheon that • had been scheduled for April 22 has been canceled. | [ ; I • j ! : ’ ; ; ' I t • I ■ j | Hastings Public Library - Following U.S. Centers for Disease Control guidelines and the recommendation of the Michigan Library Association, Hastings Public Library is closed to public access as of Monday, March 16. All programs, outreach visits and meetings are also canceled. Director Peggy Hemerling said the library will open when public schools re-open. Digital services, such as Overdrive/ Libby. RBDigiial and Hoopla, will remain available. Due dates for checked-out items is now May 1. Library cards currently expired or soon to expire will be good through May J. Fine.; incurred while the library is closed will be waived. Wi-Fi is available for public access 24/7 outside the building. Library staff will be in the building from 9 a’ni. to 5 pan. Monday through Friday and may be contacted by telephone, 269-945-4263. or email, staffshastingspubliclibrary.org. Pierce Cedar Creek Institute - As of March 13. Pierce Cedar Creek Institute has postponed or canceled all public events scheduled through April 5. That date may be extended. Events that have been canceled include the March 27 Lunch and Lean.. March 27 lish fry: Apr. 7 and 9 spring break activities: April 1- taster brunch and activities; and the Aprtl 18 Earth Day celebration. Among activities pro'!*’""1 March 21 Barry County Science kl . (now Oct. 24): April ■ 1,. .; WorWmrr April 24: Twihghi Trek. ..pr g W 25 uattve P'-'P^" "orkshop; May 2 aprW>' ‘ 1 •Ihe institute trail.. ■ " v-eryonc, including ever) ‘olnniecn, is bel"? .‘‘'X. spru.ad of the Nation possible to hm»t 1,1 ’ Vinfe . ... . u-nt to Mi<’l,clk Questions should be cnIaji (o Stedgell. executive director. « ^edgdbnr'' ccrfnrcruckin^l^ ' ^Hing 269-721 4470. Hastings Mutual lnsur«n^, ( staff is notified l,lhcrU^|’>able is allow ing eniptoyecs .sst-ntial 10 ^“rk from borne to do 50- 1 ( hus fjeen suspended- See CANCELLATIONS P*a$*e __ 804879110187 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 PRICE 75C Combatting C0VID-19 Rebecca Pierce Editor The impact of COVID-19 moved closer to home this week as the first death occurred Wednesday in Michigan and (he first case in the region, an 88-ycar-old Eaton County woman, was confirmed by health officials. ’I he numbers are going to grow, health offi­ cials said, because this new coronavirus is highly contagious and potentially deadly, especially for the elderly and people with serious underlying conditions. But the severity of the spread can be fought - and that’s what federal, state and local offi­ cials said they are trying to do. That’s why businesses, places of worship, community services and government build­ ings were closing in Barry County this week in response to state and federal orders. Those closures mirrored actions being taken across the state and nation as 111 cases were confirmed in Michigan and 7.047 cases with 121 deaths were reported across the nation. No cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Barry County >*'• “’'hough officials arc saying it’s just a matter of time before a case is confirmed. .......... It s about -flattening the curve.” Dr. J. Daniel Woodall, medical director for Barry Eaton District Health Depanmenl< loW Bany County commissioners Tuesday. I he idea is to slow the spread of the disease so doctors, health centers and testing labs can keep pace with infections and. possibly, make progress to prevent them. Thus far. testing has been a problem. Woodall confirmed, especially with the reli­ ance on state labs to do »t. Moving these tests to private labs will help speed up the process, he said. Public skepticism about COVID-19 is another obstacle. "Why is this so much more dangerous ... than anything we’ve been through in the past?” Commissioner Dave Jackson asked. "That’s a great question,” Woodall said. This is such a tricky virus. It has a lot of See C0VID-19, page 13 Collette Scrimger, health officer for the Barry Eaton District Health Department, provided a COVID-19 update for county commissioners Tuesday. Dr. J. Daniel Woodall, medical director for tho Barry Eaton District Health Department, answered commissioners' questions about C0V1D-19. (Photos by Rebecca Pierce) County administrator to act in board’s stead Rebecca Pierce Editor As Barry County commissioners met for the last time until Tuesday. /Xpril LL rhey authorized County Administrator Michael Brown to handle day-to-day business mat­ ters in the board’s absence. Die courthouse will essentially be closed to usual traffic in an effort to present expo­ sure to the coronavirus called COVID-19. Tuesday, the board heard a presentation from Eric Hackman. senior project manager from Tow er Pinkster, regarding a $25 million proposed jail project. No action was taken, but the prescntalidft offered more insight into specifics alxuiU possible structure, size and cost. »\ -­ But the location of it hbw jail would not be a pan of the proposal, commissioners said, Originally ,/ne commissioners were plan­ ning to host a community forum on March 19 at the Grace Community Church in Nashville to discuss details, but canceled the forum when assemblies w ere being discour­ aged due toCOVlD-19. Hackman recommended a jail facility with a capacity for 122 beds at a cost not to exceed $25.1 million with a request going to the voters in the August election. He provided a presentation with graphics and pictures of what the jail might look like along with estimates on costs. As the lengthy meeting drew to a close. Commissioner Dan Parker told his col­ leagues he was going to miss them. Chairwoman Heather Wing’s voice wavered as she shared the following email from Jack Miner of Hastings, who always attends their meetings but did not attend Tuesday. ‘The health care folks recommend that old folks stay away from crowds,” he noted. ” ..If I were there, i would make this state­ ment: ........... ‘The most precious asset Barry County has is its people. The most treasured resource our county government has is its awesome employees. ...Please, commissioners, do whatever it takes to protect them from the pandemic.’ ’’ For more about Barry County develop­ ments, see next week’s Banner. Plan m ptace if ambulance transport for COVID-19 • /’ ■ /_ iSJ—____ J Valley d'®11 Sch00' was su9Sested as a possible hospital overflow site by local hrst responders if the outbreak exceeds hospital capacity. Schools adjust to new coronavirus reality Day care facilities closing for jacliofchildren Taylor Owens Stuff Writer The Lakewood Public Schools' staff mem­ ber who was under quarantine after experi­ encing flu-like symptoms has tested negative lor COVID-19, Superintendent Randv Fleenor said. 1 Ihe employee was quarantined March 11 and test results came back March 15. Schixd administrators say they are taking everything day by day. as new information becomes available, and a number of questions are still in the air. During a meeting with local police, fire and EMS departments. Maple Valley Superintendent Katherine Bcrtolini .said the high sclmol was .suggested as a possible over­ flow site for hospital cases. "1 was asked. If we need to contain sick folks, we want your high school to be t^, contninment site for those people, because you have showers and you have UkxI .ci vile aIid you have space.’ ” Bcrtolini sah] ••We have not activated any planning fOl that yet, but we were jusi brainstorming for potential sites, should the need arise.” “If we reach emcrg’-’tjcy status, it could just be a governor’s d‘^,rLe l‘lat ‘ill of these spaces are hospital zones. l’cnolini said. She also said the Parking lot of the high school may make it11 cn«ice * tor drive-through testing if it is iinplf,nL[ntcd in the area. Some daycares m ic area are closing late due lo lack of partaj’R’on. including 1 Listings < immunity CI’*! (fl ’ £-onimunity ?\ction and ThornappL* bf’1 ^»ay Care. Community (V(e^ Director Mary Robinson said im‘ went from averag»>g 63 kids do*" -I Wednesday, which "as their final day 01 °Perati0IL ' Robinson s!?‘d o'? M<’if members were diagnosed with m aiu{ a a ihjnj is exhibiting hiaVler dtree parents vailed to notify 1 *1 llie flu Community F() X).|n Wjlliilmson wd the nnmher >' '<lrcn ln £, C()unt vim anended > £ "t. ^P|K-d to between two and lour in 1 .1kw days. Barry Count) ’ d<Mriv|s j<)ined lh()se See SCH0QLs pgge 12 Greg Chandler Staff Writer While no cases of the COVID-19 virus had been reported in Barry County this week, local emergency medical services officials are taking precautions with regard to transporting patients who may have the virus - just in case. The Barry County Medical Control Authority Monday went before the Thomapple Township board to share its proposal for dedicating an advanced life-support ambulance from Thornapple Township Emergency Services specifically for patients to be transported from Spectrum Health Pennock in Hastings to one of two other Spectrum Health facilities - one in Zeeland and one in Big Rapids. “These are extraordinary times, these are unprecedented things, county EMS Coordinator Dana Yarger said. “We’re trying to take care of our people the best we can not just our patients, but our first responders - which is just as important.” Yarger told the board of Spectrum Health’s policy of routing patients w ith COVID-19 to specific hospitals. She said the policy of setting aside one ambulance specifically for transporting patients with the virus would reduce the number of responders and care providers who would be exposed to the virus, as well as provide timely transport tor such patients, without depleting existing ambulance service in the county. " Ihis is something we feel to be the best w ay to not stress an already-stressed situation and also not put lots and lots of responders in the way of these patients who could be potentially contagious, Yarger said. Currently, four ambulances are based m Bany County. Yarger said. The dedicated ambulance would be kept at the 'ITES station. Ihe Medical Control Authority would develop an on-call schedule where first responders from any participating ambulance service in the county could sign up lo provide assistance. One advanced life­ support provider and one responder with .m EM f basic certiftcaiion or higher would be required to go on any transport runs. Yarger said. “They would have to dedicate themselves to be on call for 12-hour shifts. I don’t know if we’re going to do 8-to-8.6-to-6,” she said. "We would then contact the people that have, signed up for those shifts. They would have an hour to get to the station.” Mercy Ambulance and Nashville Ambulance have already agreed to join in the.' effort. Each participating ambulance service; would pay its responders and cover them withinsurance as if they were running on their own runs. Yarger said. The advanced life-support vehicle would have to be decontaminated after each run; Yarger said. ; Steve Marzolf, chief nursing officer at S|)ecinim Health Pennock and member of the medical authority board, applauded thq proposal. t "The donation of an ambulance, dedicated specifically for the transfer of COVID-19 patients by Thomapple Township EMS is an example of community organizations pulling together for the care and safety of our community. A huge kudos to all Barry County EMS teams volunteering to operate thisambulance.” Marzolf said later in a prepared statement. “Spectrum Health Pennock is the medical control authority for the county, tasked with supervising and coordinating an EMS system, so we appreciate the efforts of these organizations to serve our residents and assist in preventing the spread of COVID 19.” TT ES Chief Randy Eaton agreed with the proposal. “I think it’s certainly something that we .should have in place, but hope we don’t have to use n.” Eaton said. “If we do, it’s better to have a plan and know how it’s going to work; today than to try- and figure it out the morning of w hen we’re going to need it.” A similar disaster plan was formulated at q regional level in the wake of the 2014 Ebola vims outbreak in the U.S., Yarger said. No objections w ere raised by the township board to the proposal “It seems like a logical thing to me,” Tow nship Trustee Sandy Raifigh said. �Page 8 — Thursday. March 19.2020 — The Hastings Banner __________________ _________________________________ ____________________________ ____ COVID-19 packs an economic puncn ' Bridge Magazine ' The economic jolt from the coronavirus yvill stretch across Michigan, hitting almost every industry and community, pulling bil­ lions of dollars out of paychecks and tax col­ lections, experts say. Layoffs and furloughs have already hit the restaurant, travel and hospitality industries, then ore expected to stretch to nearly every segment of the economy, from automakers ‘and home builders to small businesses,experts said. Patrick Anderson, CEO of the Lansing­ based Anderson Economic Group, which pro­ vides economic analysis for private compa­ nies, nonprofits and governments, predicts as many as 1.4 million of the state’s 4.7 million workers will be displaced in the next 45 days. “We have to deal with the huge number of Michigan residents who will be placed out of work in some manner over die next 45 days,” Anderson said. Other estimates aren’t nearly as dirc, but Courtney Nichols, a labor attorney in Lansing, has warned businesses to plan for at least eight weeks of significant economic pain. . On Monday, the number of jobless claims in Michigan soared to 5,400 from a daily average of 1300 to 1,600, the same day that Gov. Gretchen Whitmer ordered the tempo­ rary closure of all bars, restaurants, movie theaters, libraries and other public venues. ' “This is uncharted territory, and I’ve been doing this a long time,” said Jim Stansell, senior economist and associate director al the House Fiscal Agency. ' "The difference, now, is in the past when we went into recession, therc was an underly­ ing reason. The housing bubble burst. Or the tech bubble burst. Now, businesses are shut­ ting down because of a virus. How long can they survive?” The 1.4 million potentially affected work­ ers — not all will be unemployed — is seven times more than the 210,000 jobless workers reported in January, ihe most recent estimate It’snearly double the number of unemployed in June 2009 when 725.000 were jobless during the worst month of the Great Recession. “If anything even remotely close o4 million lose their jobs, that wodd be unhke anything we have seen since 1933. Charles Ballard, an economist at Michigan State, WIBallanl cautioned therc are many variables, including potential federal and state aid pack­ ages for workers. “1 hope it doesn’t get that bad, bu 1 don l think we can rule out really bad employment outcomes," Ballard said. Economic shutdown , In the weeks since the first coronavirus case was detected in Michigan, Whitmer has ordered all K-12 schools shuttered, closed businesses and called for a ban on gatherings of more than 50 people. The restrictions already ordered by Whitmer, along with a view of how the pan­ demic will affect the economy, could lead to 124,000 lost jobs in the second quarter, according lo Gabe Ehrlich, associate director of the research seminar in quantitative eco­ nomics at the University of Michigan. His forecast predicts another 31,000 job losses in the following quarter. Combined, that would still double those currently out of work. But he said a worst-case scenario could be much more severe. Morgan Stanley is predicting a 9 percent drop in auto sales this year, which would affect domestic automakers, still some of the largest employers in the state. But Ehrlich said some of the biggest job losses will be highest in economic sectors “that require a lot of social interaction,” like travel, hotels and food service. “Those are lower wage jobs to begin with. So that’s part of what makes this even more economically painful,” he said. Stansell, the Hou.se Fi^1 Agcncy ^nomist, said he’s “hesitantuboUl draw,ng con; elusions because every day thi0^5 £ct worse-” “I’m seeing new reports out there that are saying things like it\ ROing to be a three-quar­ ter recession, that we’ll have 6 percent unem­ ployment next year, that we may not see full employment until 2024.” he said. Citing the economic losses, Whitmer on Monday sought an emerge110? disaster Joan declaration from thc U5- Small Business Administration. The loan? offer up to $2 mil­ lion in assistance to small businesses lo cush­ ion the blow of temporary revenue loss. Whitmer wants to tap inl° $1 billion Congress made available tMs m011^ for low-interest SB/\ loans to srTK111 businesscs, small agricultural cooperativesjmd nonprofits suffering substantial economic losses from the pandemic. The Whitmer administration expects its application for the SBA disaster assistance to be completed this week. The Michigan Economic Development Corp, has said its call center is available to support businesses seeking assistrmcc through the state program. And the state’s economic development agency stressed that it would provide working capital to businesscs during this time of economic uncertainty. Additional resources arc available at MichiganBusiness. org and the Michigan Small Business Development Center COVID-19 websites. Losses could hurt travel, food industries in the food sector alone, there are nearly 400.000 workers in Michigan. Also hit will be the travel and tourism industries, which have nearly 350,000 workersand generate $26 bil­ lion annually in spending. As die crisis continues, economists predict there w ill be other losses too: Employers jvill have a hard time staying open if workers have to stay 6 feet apart; waters will be leery to work as infections rise and supply chain prob­ lems could hit all manubeturen;. There arc over 600/XX) manufacturing workers in the state and last summer they averaged paychecks of $1,260 a week. “For the auto companies, there is a double whammy,” said Ballard, the Michigan Stale professor. “Not only arc there challenges on the supply side, but demand is likely to be down as well.” Indeed, as consumers worry about their own economic situations and health, demand for products could collapse, Anderson said. "We’re hoping it’s a short-term blip but it’s not been a positive one,” said Bob Filka, CEO of the Home Builders Association of Michigan. His industry, which shed 60XXX) jobs during the Great Recession, has already taken a hit: County and municipal offices have been closed, making it hard for buyers to register mortgages and inspectors to check out new construction. Other industries could have an easier time weathering the downturn. The recent widespread adoption of technol­ ogy by bank customers will make it easier, for instance, for banks and credit unions to, said Rann Paynter, president and CEO of the Lansing-based Michigan Bankers Association. And because the coronavirus is hitting in the spring, the impact should be lessened in the short term for retailers, said William Hallan, president and CEO of the Michigan Retailers Association in Lansing. “Fortunately, this isn’t a very busy lime for retailers. It’s not Black Friday,” said Hallan, whose association represents about 5,000 cor­ porate members with 15,000 stores and 850,000 employees. “Retail will be serving as the front line of this crisis,” Hallan said. “We’ll have stores who will be providing space for drive-up test­ ing. They’ll be doing curbside pickup and more online ordering and delivery. It is important for retailers to keep their stores open and lo continue offering services.” Filka, Anderson and others predict the most downturn win on.? - -Hfted< severe restncl,on?1.„e sWell in spending. they anticipate a huge out js tha(t -Fhe only thing I i b when this virus thing e ’ big blowout world are B0^1^ l°eXnX"e^" Grtmel- S:ea’of^n<-upPderoand. bu. because of a “b" “Still not sure when we will said the U5. economy was in. g£>d shape before the pandenuc and Believes ( will rcoounovkw we're in for a very sharp conwct.on. especially in the second quarter, but short­ er many, there will be relief, but Anderson and Brian Calley, president of the■ Business Association of Michigan former lieutenant governor, fear for the small businesscs that don’t typically have the cush­ ion to absorb long-term losses. While some businesses will sec a tempo­ rary boost as they sell or produce needed supplies, most companies will be harmed. Mandatory closures will have a ripple effect” on the economy, and “thc longer this goes on, I think you’re going to see an expo­ nentially bigger impact," Calley said. Younger businesses are perhaps most exposed, Calley said, because they may be carrying higher debt and arc just establishing their businesses. Anderson is bullish about what is on the “other side" of the immediate economic decline. But he’s fearful for the many small businesses, like barbers and people who must deal person-to-person with customers. “For some of these businesses, there won’t be ‘the other side,’ and that’s what concerns me right now,” he said. Key updates from Barry-Eaton City council still planning to meet Monday District Health Department , • On March 14 and 15, the complete incident Command System (ICS) team was opened at BEDHD. . • ICS is standardized approach for coordi;oalion of an emergency response of any kind It provides a common hierarchy/strocture across agencies that become inter-operable in the case of a structure that must rapidly expand. . • A plan was developed by the ICS team to increase BEDHD support with current staff functioning in different roles to support the needs of the agency and community. • Testing is up significantly statewide and in our jurisdiction; although some persons are experiencing difficulty finding testing, even if appropriate, through their health care provid­ er. • Persons under investigation also are increasing significantly, these are persons who are asked to seif-quarantine for 14 days with daily check-in from BEDHD staff. • BEDHD staff have been responding to increased number of calls. Residents with general questions should call the Stale Hotline at 1-888-535-6136. Those who believe lhey may have COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider. • The health department is working with regional partners lo receive personal protec­ tive equipment from Ihe strategic national stockpile. That equipment then will be shared with partners who meet specific criteria deter­ mined by thc state. • Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has issued a scries of executive orders in response to COVID-19, ordering the closure of schools, bars and restaurants for dining, as well as certain types of facilities and businesses. Mass gatherings have limited to fewer than 50 people, and unemployment benefits have been expanded. • On Monday, therc were no positive cases in the two-county area covered by the Barry Eaton District Health Department. On Tuesday, 35 people were being monitored or under quarantine. The district’s data is being updated once per weekday. Statewide, 12 new cases were confirmed from testing on Monday. A total of 65 cases of COVID-19 were found in the following counties: Bay, I; Charlevoix, 1; Detroit, 8; Ingham, 2; Jackson, 1; Kent, 5; Leelanau,1; Macomb, 8; Monroe, 1; Montcalm, 1; Oakland, 16; Otsego, 1; Ottawa, I; St.Clair,2; Washtenaw, 7; Wayne, • As of testing on Monday, 58 percent of thc confirmed cases were men and 42 percent were women. Of those 65 cases. 25 (38 per­ cent) have been hospitalized while 32 (49 percent) have not been hospitalized. Eight cases have an unknown hospitalization status, district health department officials said. Online screening offered at Spectrum Spectrum Health is offering screening for COVID-19 to those who have symptoms and may be concerned they have the virus. “We want lo provide a community health service for people who may have symptoms and arc concerned about the virus, while allowing them to stay at home and prevent the spread of illness," Darryl Elmouchi. chief medical officer at Spectnim Health System and president of Spectrum Health Medical Group said. “The fIr$l step ,s to call to sched­ ule a free virtual screening visit through our Spectrum Health Now service. The virtual SnfulVisit Wil1 P°°P,e kn°W if lhey need further evaluate ’’ .During the virtual video visit, individuals Wil be asked a sefcs X°e“ions about their «>nd1110n by a Spectni^ ^leanli provider who will advise whether th v need to seek addi­ tional care. The pati^y.ay select the care- Luke Froncheck Staff Writer The Hastings City Council meeting planned 7 p.m. Monday, March 23, is still on, but that doesn’t the city isn’t taking necessary precautions to keep people safe and healthy, Jerry Czarnecki. Hastings city manager, said. In line with recommendations handed down by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, thc meeting’s agenda has been reduced to only time-sensitive matters - the second reading of two ordinances. The meeting will be live-strcamed on the city’s website. Along with the stream, Czarnecki said he will be monitoring a chatbox throughout the meeting. If residents have public comment, they will be able to post it there, and Czarnecki will pass it along. Council members will have the option of attending the meeting virtually. Czarnecki also said lire main lobby of city hall will be closed lo walk-in traffic. The drive-through window and drop box will remain open for residents to make payments. Payments also can be made over the phone or via the city website. Anyone with questions may call 269-945­ 2468. More about the statewide hotline On March 14. the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services launched a state­ wide . hotline to respond to health-related questions about the novel coronavirus disease called COVID-19. The hotline — at 1-888-535-6136 — is open from 8 a.m. to 5 pan. seven days a week. Public health and other experts will answer health-related questions about COVID-19. The team also can direct residents, providers and more to the right resources in their local communities and other state government departments. Please note: Staff cannot provide individual clinical advice or a diagnosis through the hotline. Those who believe they have been exposed to COVID-19 and are symptomatic, should call their health care provider. In Barry County, residents who don’t have a health care provider should call Cherry Health Barry Community Health Center in Hastings al 269-945-4220 or the Spectrum Health COVID-19 hotline at 616-391-2380. Patients with confirmed infection have reported mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of fever, cough, shortness of breath and pneumonia. Tire best ways to prevent spread of the dis­ ease is to: • Wash hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. If not available, use hand sanitizer. • Avoid touching the eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. • Cover mouth and nose with a tissue or upper sleeve when coughing or sneezing. • Avoid contact with people who are sick. • Don t shake hands and stay al least six feet away from others. • If sick, stay home, and avoid contact with others. Tax foreclosure deadline extended Cold or Flu Symptoms? See a doctor online 24/7 and feel better today. Getting sick is never convenient, but getting care should be! Now you can have a video visit with a doctor from the comfort of your home on your phone, tablet or computer. Visit bfonsonhealth.com/videovislt to download our app and get the care you need now. chX,hl:iI Snwn de^,hem 10 • hedulc and conduct. J,, !] visit all in one Place. Tele1nedic^ ’V,rtU„''ally used for ^•acuity conditio' 'tX r.thes. sinus P">Wems or the flu rOVID-19 vir“rcernng has X, * Jld io >>s offerings ^cellyforthi^^siW-dion- 11 is not ||CC(.S Pabltc h • |njm Health Mem to uw xheZ^ 3 j Stive the free ^cnin8- Spectt^1^ goffering this lee to all resident hute«f Michigan. Bronsonfpnnect Video Visit SB: The deadline for Michigan residents to pav back taxes and avoid foreclosure on their property during the ongoing coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic was extended for 30 days. The extension, which takes effect imntedi ately, was approved by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on Wednesday. Her order moves the tax foreclosure deadline from March 31 May 29 - or 30 days after the state of e '° gency ts termtnated - whichever comes f n ‘ This executive order will r ... struggling to make ends meet real and^n'5 diate relief from the pressure of havingXir home foreclosed on while trying to Whi?eallh a1d safe‘y of ,heir loved ones,” Wluuner Sa,d. “This Oldcr is ,he la(est in , snre ut° prolccl public, slow the fon dn ^v1D-19 and give families comtortdunng these uncertain limes.” stavino h Michiganders to focus on heln and makin£ choices to Donnfr dtlhc Sprcad of COVID-19” Jeff and the Department of Labor “h^ S“C 0PP°nu"i‘y. said. -Fhe last worn, and “n,ors should have ,0 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. March 19. 2020 — Pag*# 3 COVID virus impacting funerals, church services, local government operations i Grtf ^handler Strf Writer The impact ol v'rus an(1 efforts lo control •<**'^ COnl’nuc to have far-reaching eff^'J^hout Barry County even to the po’nt . ^‘ct,n8 how residents " rtnd respects to those who have died. ^^The Mich»F;in funeral Directors • Tuesday announced a set of A?Tl nes for ^rectors to help them guidelm of grieving families while TiT1 •’ „ tn limitations on public gatherings I ;,nd slUlC ofr,c,aIs Among the S bymrndat ons lhe MFDA included S fX funcrai issuing invitation- limiting services to immediate family dcI«ymg larger services, Casino shuts down, donates food in wake of pandemic Greg Chandler Staff Writer Gun Lake Casino recently shut down voluntarily in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The shutdown will continue at least through March 30. But with the shutdown that went into effect March 14. the casino had an excess of food in its coolers. So, it donated more than 2.75 tons of food to West Michigan fixxl banks. Monday and Tuesday of this week, casino employees packaged, loaded and transported food to thrce food banks: Degagd Ministries in Grand Rapids, Feeding America West Michigan, and IIand2Hand, based in Hudsonville. "Gun Lake Casino has always been committed lo fighting issues surrounding hunger in our local communities," casino president and chief operating officer Sal Semola said. "We recognize this is a worrisome time for all, especially for the families who may be unable to afford food. In this great time of need, Gun Lake Casino is proud to donate and lessen Ihe effects of this worldwide crisis." The casino delivered and filled storage spaces at Ddgagd Ministries to capacity with fresh foods and fully prepared meals. The casino has been an avid supporter of the organization since 2011. Semola said. Hand2IIand received gallons of milk, yogurt and a variety of fresh vegetables and fruits that will be provided to hungry children. Hand2Hand senes more than 7.500 students in eight counties in West Michigan, including Barry. Feeding America West Michigan was provided with cases of dairy products, eggs, fresh herbs, vegetables and fruits. This organization plans to distribute the donated food to local food assistance organizations in multiple counties within West Michigan. More information can be found at gunlakccasino.com/glc-updates. Schools enacting major food distribution initiative when practical. ‘‘We rccogntw that these restrictions may add additional burden to grieving families, but the funeral professionals will continue to provide support to Emilies during this difficult time.” MF°A e*<xutive director Phil Douma said in a pn-'P^d statement. Some other recommendations proposed by MFDA include posting a sign about Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s executive order limiting services to 50 people or fewer, posting a sign asking those with cold or flu symptoms to refrain from attending services, practicing social distancing *n seating mourners, and suspending food and beverage service to funeral homes, MFDA spokesman Matt Resch said. At Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings, owner Dale Billingsley said al |casl four funerals were planned this week, all of which he expected would have 50 or fewer people present. He didn’t expect any major changes from the funeral home’s procedures prior to the COVID-19 situation. “We’re going full speed ahead," Billingsley said. Billingsley did say one larger funeral had been planned Saturday but has since been canceled. One option Girrbach is making available to families who are dealing with the loss of a loved one and may have a large number of mourners is streaming the funeral service on its Facebook page so that extended family and friends of the deceased can be part of ihe service. "When it goes live, you’ll be able to see it. even if you don’t have a Facebook account," office manager Sandy Billingsley said. At the Williams-Gores Funeral Home in Delton, director Matt Richmond is offering options for families who might expect a large turnout for a funeral. “If it’s a family that wants a traditional service, we’re allowing immediate family to come in and pay tjieir final respects as a 8^>up, and then give them the option of a argcr visitation and service later (once **1?™°*“ arC Hflcdl ” Richmond said. »C T .lcllin£ lhc families make the ultimate decision.” H-.?;L,LaUCr F“'nily Funeral Home in PrT,a'iOn fOr fllnefi'ls »re hnmr n-m.'**1’’ n,aj°r changes. Funeral h0™ rep««nkt,ve5 consult with family memtxn, to address any concerns arising from the virus but no changes were planned for now. owner Steven Ijucr said. A number of local churches have postponed services and other activities Green Street United Methodist Church in Hastings has canceled all in-person worship sen'ices for the lime being, both at the church and off site. All other group activities at the church have been canceled, as well. Rev. Bryce Feighncr said. While some chtirches are recommending that small group Bible studies continue, Feighncr said he is not recommending that for his congregation. “We need to practice what we preach.” Feighner said. “We need to exhibit extreme love to each other and the entire world. We need to do our part to practice social distancing.” Green Street Church members will check up on their fellow congregants to see how they’re doing and to see if there any needs 'they may have. ’ Meanwhile, the Food Pantry and Fresh Food Initiative that is located at the church will continue to operate using social distancing principles. "Recipients will not enter the church building. Volunteers will deliver these food supplies to the door and/or to their cars," Feighner said. Peace Church in Middleville has cancelled all of its worship services and programming through Monday, April 6. "In a situation like this that is unprecedented, where there is uncertainly, (when) the truth is there are real dangers that face certain members of our community, wr need to be, as far as possible, at peace and mi harmony with other churches in our area w those in governing authority. We need •$) understand that," said thc Rev. Adam Barr, the church’s senior pastor, in a video message ou the church’s website earlier this week. * Middleville United Methodist Church will not have in-person worship services for life rest of this month, and no face-to-face churchrelated meetings arc being held. Online worship services will be held each Sunday at 10 am. In addition, Rotary meetings al the church have been suspended, and Boy Scouts who normally meet at the church will nqt meet while school is out of session, the Rev. Tony Shumaker posted on the church’s Facebook page. Tlie church’s food pantry is not closed, but only one person can get food at a time, and it will be pre-bagged and placed in a designated area for pickup. Alcoholics Anonymous groups will continue to meet and use the church’s fellowship hall while maintaining social distancing principles. The groups will clean and disinfect the area after each meeting, according to the Facebook post. . Local government offices arc also being impacted as well. The Thomapple Township hall will be closed to the public and all meetings and programs scheduled to meet at the hall have been postponed until Monday, April 6. “We will be working remotely, doing electronic communications with our rcsidents.’’Township Supervisor Mike Bremer said. "When there needs to be face-to-face (meetings), they will be done probably here on a one-to-one basis." The township has posted e-mail addresses and cell phone numbers on the door of the township hall, on its Facebook page and on its website in case residents need to contact someone, Bremer said. K At Middleville Village Hall, the lobby is closed until further notice. Staff are available during regular business hours from 9 am. to 5 p.m. by phone al 269-795-3385 or via e-mail. Payments and other items that need to be submitted lo staff can be placed in a drop box to the right of the village hall’s front door. First COVID-19 case in Eaton County confirmed. ------- ----, .. Testing through,^ Afchigan-DepflrtmenO ness in rEaton County." . of Health and Hyman Services has identified As a precaution, BEDHD is asking anyone Eaton County yfirst positive case for corona­ with symptoms of COVID-19 to sqtf-isolatc 7for 14 days to avoid potentially exposing oth­ virus disease 2019. 1 Thc individual is'an 88*year-old female ers. COVID-19 symptoms may appear in as Eaton County resident whose travel history few as two days or as long as 14 days after includes domestic travel. The Barry-Eaton exposure to the virus. Symptoms include District Health Department announced in a fever, cough and shortness of breath. press release Wednesday afternoon that staff To prevent lhe spread of COVID-19, peo­ will contact people who have been in close ple should wash their hands thoroughly and contact with thc patient, and will assess her frequently, stay home when sick, avoid close for symptoms and quarantine and nionitor contact with sick people, avoid touching their appropriately. faces, disinfect commonly touched surfaces, “We understand many in the community avoid shaking hands, and follow suggested are concerned about the spread of CO VID­ guidelines for social distancing. 19," Health Officer Colette Scrimger said. For social distancing, health department “Barry-Eaton District Health Department will staff recommends staying six feel or more be acting quickly using methods such as con­ away from others; when possible, avoiding tact tracing, quarantine and isolation for public places at their busiest times; working impacted individuals to reduce the risk of ill- from home, when possible; limiting travel; ~ i canceling gatherings of 50 or more people, bs required by state law; and limiting necessary' gatherings to no more than 10 people *J People who are concerned that they m(fy have COVID-19 should contact their healdtcare providers and call ahead before visiting any healthcare facility. Mildly ill people are encouraged to stay home and contact their healthcare provider by phone for guidance. f “If you feel well, you do not need to be tested.” Scrimger said. "Testing is determined based on risk assessment.” Information about the COVID-19 situation locally, and in Michigan is rapidly changing*. More information can be found at cdc.goW coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.hlml, michigan. gov/coronavirus, and barryeatonhealth.org/ covid-19-resources-and-update. A Maple Valley Schools bus stops in Vermontville to deliver meals. (Photo by Taylor Owens) Taylor Owens Staff Writer Local school districts have prepared largescale food distribution efforts to feed children while school is closed. Meals will be avail­ able for anyone under 18. or people under 26 with a disability. A listing of food delivery sites in Barry County and beyond is found below. Many schools have surveys they have requested parents fill out so lhey can better gauge their districts’ needs. Those surveys are available at the school websites or Facebook pages. Thomapple Kellogg Schools The district handed out nearly 2,400 meals Monday, lo last students until Thursday with two meals a day. Meals will be handed out every Monday and Thursday. Director of Dining Services Jessica Endres said the school plans on serving at least 4.072 playground area. From noon to 12:30 pan. pickup is available at Meadowstone Apartments central parking lot, Thomapple Lake Estates near the office, thc comer of East Dowling Road and M-37, the Hastings Baptist Church front parking lot and Cherry Health parking lot. Delton Kellogg Schools The first deliveries were made Wednesday, and deliveries will continue every Saturday while school is closed. Food will be available at 10:30 a.m. at the former store by the park in Prairieville, Cloverdale Hardware Store and al Faith United Methodist Church in Delton. At 11 a.m., deliveries will be made to Circle Inn Restaurant in Gun Lake, the Guernsey Lake area and the Cherry Street bus slop in Ihe Banfield area. at die loading dock to the rear of the budding. Lakewood Public Schools Viking Mobile Meals start today. Meals will be delivered every Monday and Thursday nr?,TL a nk 10 n°on. The locations are Aunt B s Daycare in Sunfield, the Early Childhood Center parkrng lot in Woodland. Clarksville in’Xn.nnT ”g 10L,hc hiSh801,001 P;‘rkg lot and Lakewood Elementary parking lot. Hustings Area S!** h deliveries started Breakfast and^lu-Kh Maple Valley Schools wcZv^fro,nK-,()cvery n>TheIOx>dts>pr»vided directly to vehicles, d^ve-thru service, at Thornapple Wednesday und . : ina<je every Monday that, deliveries " pnouPh food to last in and Thursday, wl,h ... £. available at the between. parking lot from 11 Hastings High \ jj| ;,|so lx-available Irani a m. to noon. J 000 r»nlra] Momentary and 11-11:30 a.m. at 'l-<- • |)US ickup TOnc Hastings Middle . ‘•'ei|ary parking |(„, Northeastern 1)US pickup zone. Southeastern We',’fz?! Silciured Home Meadowstone ‘ Community and Ba" Terraces Estates food lo last umn Monday'*" Vemu>Xk,iiwflXrPKl<l| C"OUgh VV-OWB-V HASTINGS,MICHIGAN Open 11:00 - 8:00 Monday tlVu Saturday 12:00 - 8:00 Sunday 269-945-4400 take out CURBSIDE ^PICK-UP _ FREE DELIVERY (Hastings + 5 miles*) .d.Own,own si<^ Maple Valley Schools PaeeuS page' on our website Walldorffbrewpub.com „ — or— °Uow us on Facebook l°5 E. Stale St., Hastings, MI 49058 We can Deliver W Walldorf)' |F Craft Beer k tv, Curbside Pick-Up Check out our Menu ^oolln GROWLERS OR 6-PACKS TO GO Delivery in < 269-945-4400 www.waHdorfibrewpub.com * Minimum $20 orderfor delivery �Page 4 — Thursday. March 19. 2020 — The HaMings Banner __ ____ Did you See? The lessons coronavirus is teachi g : The answer, my friend, is blowing in the wind Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, virtually ^^"hVuppw lo be in search of more toilet paper - even Ihoug| & respiratory symptoms of the novel coronav fusareu need for copious amounts of toilet paper. On HaSlmqs Gatherer" statue, made by Brent Harris. ate was given his own roll of that hot commod.ty to contempt (Photo by Luke Froncheck) Do yoU o 1 remember: Men’s chons Sime Banner March 5, 1959 One of the highlights of the HHS presentation of ‘The Merry Widow” was the chorus line, which really ‘brought down the house.” Pictured (from left) are Mike McMillan, Bill Stanton, Ed Morr, Bob Klevorn, Mike Clardy. Dave Sothard. Roland Curtis and Doug Benner. Others in the chorus can be seen behind the high-steppers. Part of lhe pit orchestra is in the foreground. This photo was taken at a dress rehearsal by Leo Barth of Barth’s Studio. * Have you met? Hastings resident Allison Troyer Wiswell is driven to make the spaces around her better for others. And she now has a new opportunity to help institute a healthier Barry .County as lhe activate director for Blue ' Zones. Blue Zones are identified areas of the world where people live longer, healthier lives - up to 12 years longer than the average American, she said. The identified areas have 10 times the nite of centenarians, or people who live lo be over 100. “But these people are having, like, a high quality of life. They’re out and very active, so they’re not in a nursing home.” she said. Specific qualities or features, the “Power 9.” were found lo be lhe same in the five specific areas that became the original Blue Zones. As the activate director, Wiswell is working to make Barry County the first Blue Zones community in Michigan. Those nine features proven elsewhere in (he world have become a mission locally. Wiswell. with financial backing from key community leaders, is aiming lo increase opportunities for people to be able to make healthier, safer choices on a daily basis and to better connect on a social level. Wiswell can readily cite examples of cities in the United States where Blue Zones exist, giving statistics for each place. “It really just nudges (people) in each of (he nine directions.” she said of the project. “It’s not forcing you to give up youi cheeseburger.” Bom June 7. 1976, in Williamsport, Pa.. Wiswell was the only daughter and first of three children of Don Lawrence Troyer and Verna Sue (Hostetler) Troyer. Her brother, Nathan. 40. lives in Saline, and Iter brother Adam, 37. lives in Zeeland. Her family moved to Paoli, a small town in southern Indiana, when she was 2. They moved to Three Rivers after she completed fourth grade, and she graduated from Three Ki ven High School in WA. She attended Western Michigan University, earning a arrived in August. Outside of work. Wiswell enjoys cooking and entertaining as well as reading, walking, traveling.going to movies and spending time with friends and family. For her desire to improve Barry County for future generations and for her dedication to its residents. Allison Troyer Wiswell is this week’s Bright Light. Allison Troyer Wiswell bachelor’s degree in 2000 in exercise physiology and a master’s degree in 2017 in counseling psychology. Her dad was a doctor and her mom a teacher. And. after considering those fields, Wiswell concluded she didn't necessarily want to work in the same place for lhe rest of her life. She had worked in diagnostics for the Heart Center lor Excellence next to Borges*. Hospital in Kalamazoo for five years and later in (he field of worksite wellness. Deciding to expand into the Blue Zones project was a personal risk. However, it fit her desire to make the world a belter place for her daughter and Inline generations, h’s a risk she’s willing to take. I think my ultimate mission purpose is about connecting people ... with others, with resources, to help people.” she said. “Ami whatever form that takes. I’m just son of following that path.” She and her husband, lorn Wiswell. have a daughter. Norah, who just turned 8 they also have a golden retriever. Oliver, who First job: Wendy’s. I run out and got my first job as soon as I turned I6- 1 couldn’t wait to be able to SIart making my own money. Person I’d most like tn meet: Granl Achantz, a chef at A lines restaurant in Chicago. If । could build anything: A connected soenil network throughout the county where I’cop e could feel uplifted and supported in hlI^«ng their passions If 1 could go anvwhvrc-1 would travel to The horror of thc Japanese bombs dropped at Pearl Harbor in 1941 and the certainty of lhe country’s entry into World War II happened before I was bom. I fell its lasting effects as a young boy, though, as I took note of the quiet and serious resolution those brave defenders carried in their eyes when they relumed home to resume being my teachers and neighbors. 1 do remember first-hand how the coun­ try quaked in 1963 when our president was assassinated and then when a soul-building civil rights leader was gunned down in 1968 followed by the late president’s own brother just two months later. And my knees were shaking in 21X11 when I watched on lhe television screen those planes that toppled thc World Trade Center towers in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and the one that never hit its intended target because passengers selflessly forced it lo crash first into a Pennsylvania field. As Americans, we all fell the pain and the suffering of those catastrophic events. But life went on. We went to work, ale at local restaurants, shopped, worshipped al church, and attended weddings and funerals - all done carry ing the weight of those terri­ ble memories, but not feeling any direct impact of those distant events on our lives. Now that has all changed. Who would have thought that a virus an ocean away in China and reported to us less than three months ago could threaten every community in this country? Today, lhe coro­ navirus has spread to more than 126 coun­ tries, raising havoc as it threatens the lives of our families, communities and thc economic stability of entire nations. Sure, humans have lived through a num­ ber of more recent threatening epidemics, such as smallpox, the Ebola outbreak in 2014. the Marburg virus in 1967, and the more recent HINI swine flu that drew our attention in 2009, but this strain of virus has become an unprecedented health crisis like none other. So severe and contagious is its onslaught, the coronavirus is even chattering the teeth of our health professionals. in a matter of days, our lives have been reshaped in ways unlike by other national disaster, including those tragedies so many of us remember. Sporting events and con­ certs have been canceled. Bars, casinos and even retailers are closing down due to the virus. Monday, stale officials announced that restaurants and bars could only serve food via take-out. Travel around ihe world and even domes­ tically has been altered due to the threat of this dangerous disease. Health experts are working overtime to quell the reach of this growing virus that has lightened its grip on our lives to the point that it’s overwhelming our country and our economy For the first time that I can remember, schools and colleges are closing and sending students home for their own safely. Churches have closed and are offering services online in an effort to reduce the potential of getting people together in large groups. It’s a move­ ment health officials are demanding in an effort lo reduce lhe spread, or flatten the bell curve, lo limit exposure to lhe virus. In recent days, the virus has even caused a run on food items, cleaning products and even toilet paper, yes, toilet paper. We’ve experienced panic buying during other national disasters, but nothing like what’s been happening in recent days across the county where customers are in anxiety mode to get certain items before they’re all gone. The panic is testing the American line between individual rights and the responsi­ bilities we have to the greater community. Death demographics show that die most vulnerable of our neighbors are those over 60 years of age. In many places, however, the younger and less susceptible are not practicing the recommendation of health care experts to isolate, to refrain from the crowd-gathering activities that spread the sickness. This will be no easy fix, and it will be lhe first time most of us who weren’t here lo experience those nationally-uniting trage­ dies of assassination and terrorism arc being WorldOr8an!za'ion h“ rhe Worm pandemic, and declared this • T inoved the bar President Donaldf P emer_ Friday when he d J. is hard at work gency. Ament.a »thc VL,S, but vaccines on vaccines to q away from are reportedly more than efficacy and USC^J clion equipment shortages of person-^ and for health care Th ‘dieted wave ventilators are. "careuuna. of infection wdl bu.0 do idatc vou,” American evangelist Kick WaneZsaid, "let it motivate you.to pray m°So h"’“he impossible seem fess intimidating? Take the s,lua,‘o" but remain calm. We can get through this by working together, keeping our distance and following the advice of health officials by washing our hands, elbow bumping instead of shaking hands and refraining from over­ buying items that result in unnecessary shortage. It may seem hard to stay calm when lhe virus and its impact is consuming the news each day. Plus, social media is spreading all kinds of questionable informa­ tion that just adds to the emotion, especially when so much misinformation is abundant in social media. Placing blame and calling out experts and health officials won’t solve thc crisis or make the situation better, either. Even though it may seem leaders are overly sensitive to the problem, in the end, I hope wc look back and feel that moving fast and keeping people in a self-controlled quarantine of sorts was the best medicine for Americans. And once this situation passes, we can focus as a nation to learn from this frightening and deadly lesson and put more emphasis on developing life-saving drugs and building supplies of potentially needed medical equipment for a future health threat. The coronavirus is a warning. This is a war being fought by all of humankind with­ out guns and bullets. This war shows no regard for boundaries, beliefs, or biases. Human life is something every nation and people share and value which, perhaps, means the coronavirus also is a lesson. Wc are all in this fight together. “Even with all our technology and the inventions that make modem life so much easier than it once was, it takes just one big disaster to wipe all that away and remind us that, here on Earth, we’re still at the mercy of nature,” American astrophysicist Neil deGrassc Tyson said. It’s important that we stay safe, stay calm and slay home as much as possible we’re in unchartered waters that demand we all work togcdier to weather the storm. Because it will end - it just depends what it will look like as the storm passes. Keep in mind that we must also do our best to sup­ port local businesses whenever we can, because their stability will determine how fast we can recover from this economic slowdown. “Impossible situations can become pos­ sible miracles,” Rev. Robert H. Schuller said. “Wc need to be focused on the mira­ cles.” Taken together, lhe previously quoted words of Warren, deGrasse Tyson, and Schuller remind us that humankind is not in control. With prayer and trust as we move through the upcoming weeks, we truly can focus on miracles. Fred Jacobs, CEO, J-Ad Graphics Inc. 0“ I cnuni I most i|(|niire: My husband. I .norite TV prno-. .. | don’t watch a 01 »l TV. but cuiren^1"| watch when 1 ha^t,™ a, ;mi1 b4^ What do you think? «.5C5 “ " "** »i""~ »■«. v..< „ be tabulated and teported along with a new ...... Michigan. ,0"'s <«.. ' ti J '»gsBanner.com. Results will Mwv.Miun me tollowing week. ,|K- beach <>l ‘ .. ......... />. 111'-''"" Last week: Election reforms were approved by Michigan voters tn November 20IX. So how did that work out: Was it easier to cast ballots in Tuesday's primary election? ’ 7 Yes 40% No 60% KA.i on: For this week: Has Michigan handled the novel coronavirus COVID-19 Pandemic well? □ Yes Q No �882539 The Hastings Banner — Thursday. March 19, 2020 -- Page 5 COVID49 stalls Watson Drain Project I'0'!* »'.ff Writer The novel h? closed movic theaters. ^wur,u,s„ !w|s and. now. it seems even county b‘ ‘ ^en affected. For ,nonthT \ Dull h 50l,nly Drain Commissioner^ c?? speaking of the permit he snJf J'nv-"8,n“'s submitted to the Department o • nnient. Great Lakes, and Energy. pu|i. And for n,on b 'n ,h h s becn saying they are just wamng/ont"a perm", which will allow them to Pr . . I,l> a public meeting, construction and *c'"'hdlat.on of a larger pump that can P ake residents more n<Bu" firs'-lhc I*""" bad 10 be approved. And. according to -U e guidelines, the per­ mit cannot be app Mil the public meet­ ing is held-If and when the meeting occurs, residents will be a 'peak their opposition or support for d>« P1’"’ ^bmitted by Dull. However, with recent outbreak of COVID-19, a public meeting is unlikely. Michigan Gov.'Gretchen Whitmer banned all gatherings of 50 or more people in the state until early Apnlen. on Monday, the Centers for Disease Control, along with President Donald 1 rump, recommended that people not gather in groups of 10 or more. In comparison, a public meeting earlier this year for lhe Pine Lake flooding relief project attracted more than 400 people. While Dull acknowledged t|lal EG( E js swamped with cases - mentioning that a drain commissioner in the upper Peninsula submit­ ted 35 different permits in a single week - he said his frustration has been building. FR'ENP? WHO WERE AW£ WW ^HOLARs JUCT A MONTH AGO INFECTIOUS. PISEASE EXPERTS...." Words count: so does the truth To the editor: 1 wish the Liar In Chief would take responsibility for this health threat. Words matter to me, like: “What we have to fear is fear itself. The buck stops here. Remember the Maine. Remember the Alamo. For God and country. No man is an island. I regret that 1 have but one life to give lo my country.” And so on. Being a Vietnam vet and very proud of my service, I have no use for liars and draft dodgers. Mike Ainslie, Delton Local band suspends season Thc Thomapple Wind Band will be searching for his replacement, and members canceling its remaining scheduled rehearsals urge past, current and future instrumentalist to and final /Xpril 3 concert due to concerns over join and make Macqueen’s 1'mal year great. the COVID-19 virus. The Thomapple Wind Band is a Rehearsals for the upcoming 2020-21 community-based organization whose mission season will resume under the continuing is to bring wind band music to the Barry directorship of David Macqueen. The 2020­ County area while giving adults the 21 season will mark Macqueen’s 22n^ year opportunity to combine their musical talents with the 'fhomapple Wind Band: 15 of those with others. The organization is open to any years as its conductor. adults regardless of ability. The band is currently in the process of (write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. r . -Crossfire" letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. ° . In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per montn. r • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. The Hastings Banner Nsw, nndpW mlMses- Secretary' of State Jocelyn Benson is exploring options to ensure the May 5 elec­ tions do not put public health at risk. “I want to ensure Michiganders maintain their democratic right to vote without putting their health or the health of our clerks and election workers at risk, ’ Benson in a press release this week. All options are on the table, including conducting the election by mail.” ^21 South Jefferson Street .NEWSROOM• Rei,i!cw Greg Chandler POST MASTER H Taylor Owens ___ u h.o^r**"*’* BRINGEVERYTHING' YOULOVETOGETHER! © Blazing Fast Internet! k $-|999 . Including bocal channels: r/tUTODAy For $ too gift CflftL, t.on.and Prorn{' ph?ne’ schedulinfl facility rentals, gill . .. £§11 .A PUBLIC NOTICE OF HERBICIDE APPLICATION The Daltons Inc., its rnainotf.ee at 8857 N. SyracuseWebster Rd., Syracuse, IN 46567, has been con­ tracted by B^GQUD^a^.CQinin.i55i0ll to per­ form custom chemical vegetation control mainte­ nance services at designated roadside guardrail locations throughout the county. Qualification Scott Ommen n . Mike Gilmore Greenfield . . Colleen Eqieston _____________ Jennie Yonker ' tions that need to hold an election in May are able to do so in a safe manner? . Benson, the Bureau of Elections, and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and her administration continue to discuss how* lo move forward. “Governor Whitmer and her team are also committed lo protecting our public health and our democracy,” Benson said. “Our conversa­ tions have been fruitful, and 1 look lorward to taking action soon.” 190 CHANNELS Hastings, Michigan (269) 945-3547 www.kamue]|eracc0Untjng com 5. jjniiniitr;iiiv.CSSln^ payments. Position may provide additio c support in other areas as required. Min­ imum z nrvj 5 may be required to work I loltdays and on’k<i2*P^h“urMu'difiin:U b‘Kk8round check, and starting pay S10 P‘ ^‘hcation dependent. $50 per year in *n Ba/fy c°unty V pa year in d^m.ng counties ____________ 155 P*f year trfsewtw ness resources rally together in this time of crisis. The stories we are hearing from the small businesses affected by COVID-19 are devastating.” State Director of lhe Michigan Small Business Development Center J.D, Collins said. “Rest assured that the combined resources of Michigan’s small business sup­ port system are here to help.” MEDC’s call center stands ready to support businesses looking for assistance through other available state programs. More informal tion can be found on MEDC’s website^ MichiganBusiness.org. or by calling 888-522­ 0103. The Michigan Small Business Development Center also can provide resourc­ es for small businesses impacted by COVID19. Their website https.’/Abdcmichiganxjrg/ small-business-covidI9/ has additional infor­ mation. The Small Business Development Center s FAQ page also has information on the impact COVID-19 will have on small businesses and how to help them better prepare for this eco­ nomic impact. Information around this outbreak is chang­ ing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavinrs and CDC.gov/ Coronavirus. 2-YEARTV PRICE GUARANTEE t Subscription Rates: Hundreds of jurisdictions are slated to par­ ticipate in lhe May elections, which give resi­ dents lhe opportunity to vote on numerous local issues, including school district bonds and millages. “We’ve heard from some jurisdictions that they would be happy to consolidate their cur­ rent issues into the August election,” said Benson. “We would like to provide them that option, while still ensuring that those jurisdic­ K. A. MUELLER ACCOUNTING Publisher & CEO Hank croUUrin9 lation that makes SI billion available to the SBA to provide low-interest loans to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, and nonprofit organizations that have suffered substantial economic losses as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. SBA’s Economic Injur)' Disaster Loans offer up to S2 million in assistance and can provide vital economic support to small busi­ nesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing. MEDC also is encouraging businesses and communities throughout the state to learn more about its wide range of tools aimed at assisting Michigan’s small- and medium-sized businesses. In particular, the MEDC Access to Capital programs can provide greater avail­ ability of working capital during times of growth, change or economic uncertainly, Burton said. To support businesscs and communities during this unprecedented lime, the organiza­ tion also will be evaluating virtual matchmak­ ing and other enhancements to programs such as its International Trade, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Pure Michigan Business Connect. PlanctM and Match on Main Street programs. “I’m so proud to see the state’s small busi­ Secretary of state considering election consolidation S;b,h‘ DEPARTMENT. Frederic Jacobs Michigan’s small business entrepreneurial support organizations have joined forces with thc Michigan Economic Development Corporation to ensure economic support is available to businesses to overcome anticipat­ ed loss of revenue as a result of the COVID19 virus, the organizations announced Tueday. “Small businesses drive lhe economies of our communities, and we understand that they are facing unprecedented challenges. We are committed to providing vital economic sup­ port to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue lhey are experienc­ ing,” MEDC CEO Mark Burton said. “We are working with small business organizations and partners aropnd the state to ensure that every possible resource made available to businesses, communities, entrepreneurs and others around the state, and we will continue to provide updates as soon as they’re avail­ able.” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer informed the U.S. Small Business Administration March 16 she is seeking an Economic Injury Disaster Loan Declaration for the state and has initiated the process to receive the declaration from SB A. That application process is expected to be completed this week. Earlier this month, Congress passed legis­ Po5itlrh^ton ParkVj??11^ phone and walk-in contact tor HisinduJe an^« Museum & Recreation Area. Resjwn- adsgy out and get a date for when thc public meeting would occur. That never happened. A week after Feb. 10. Dull received a letter from EGLE officials saying they had never received the stickers. Dull ensured them that they had sent the stickers and they had records of EGLE’s security guard signing for lhe package. . The stickers were found in ihe EGLE offic­ es a week after that. Dull said. Just over three weeks later, Hayes sent an email to EGLE officials asking if a dale had been sei for their public meeting. She received a response saying that the meeting may not take place due to the novel coronavirus and that they would be getting back to her with more information shortly. Pumping has already begun to have an effect on lakes in Southern Barry County, Dull said. Thc water levels on both Cloverdale and Crooked Lakes have been brought down about an inch since the pumps were turned on last week. Dull said he expects pumping will continue to bring the lakes down between 1 and 1.25 inches each week. Although there have been no issues with the pumps yet. Dull said he will know if any problems arise. Thc pump on the Darrell Jones detention pond in Delton has an electronic device that allows it to go two days before having to be refueled. Thar is not thc case for the pumps on Cloverdale Lake. Each day. Dull said he must drive to lhe lake and refuel the pumps. So, if something is wrong, he said he will know. State groups join forces to assist small businesses impacted by COVID-19 PartJMOffice Assistant ■ BCPRC hderet>lf> of Barry County since 1856 of. Hastings Banner, Inc.' ‘ A Division ol J-Ad Graphics Inc 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 . Fax: (269) 945.5192 [jmwted to The Hastings Banner contacted EGLE offi­ cials for comment Tuesday and Wednesday but did not receive a response. 'The Watson Drain project permit was orig­ inally submitted Sept. 27, 2019, by engineer Brian Cenci. In thc project timeline released in summer of 2019 and created by Cenci and Nick DeSimpclare, another engineer on the project, they estimated it would take about six weeks for the permit to be reviewed. The pennit is roughly 500 pages long. At lhe end of the review process, EGLE usually sends a list of corrections to the appli­ cant, outlining the changes that must be made before lhey can approve the permit. Based on Cenci’s timeline, the review pro­ cess should have been done Nov 8 Dull said lhey received lhe list of about a page and a half of corrections at the end of December. On Feb. 4. Dull re-submitted thc permit with the corrections. On Feb. 11, they received one more correc­ tion because one )alx*I had been left off the pennit. Dull said that correction was made and submitted lhe same day they received it. On Feb. 25, Dull received word that post­ cards were going out as soon as EGLE offi­ cials received certain stickers from his office that needed lo be on the postcards. Those slickers were shipped via FedEx by Deputy Drain Commissioner Tammy Hayes on Feb. 30 with overnight delivery. Hayes received word the next morning that the package had been signed for. At that point. Dull assumed that he would receive word the postcards were being sent High^hoQij-. 'Plonu; or equivalent. Minion . >ear of administrative work. verbal and interpersonal communi- cation skt||. organizational skills. ‘ . • "Win. , i. i Resume’ J0‘ ' d,,d lw:c oincv equipment knowledge. older Tnis application will be completed by certified appli­ cators employed by The Daltons Inc., during the months of April and/or May. Additional information may be requested by contacting Lex Dalton or Derek Dalton at 574-267-7511. .. ■ ^I2o Barry C'^‘|U>n p. ' ^'realion Commission 2545 S. c Nd. Einaik U11'" In doing so. thoy will be broadcast applying the fol­ lowing EPA-regislered materials: Bayer Esplanade 200SC (Indaziflam). Bayer Method 240SL (Aminocyclopyrachlor), Alligare Imazapyr 4SL, and Alfigare Glyphosate 5.4. Do not enter or allow entry into treated areas until sprays have dried _ ir»; �Pag* 6 - - Thursday. March 19. 2020 — Tho HAsVngs Banner Worship j Together ...at the church of your choice TVeeAZv schedules of Hastings arfa”'urcn available for your convenience. CHRIST THE KING • Presbyterian ; CHURCH (PCA) "328 N. Jefferson Street. "Worship 10 am. Nursery J provided. Pastor Peter “Adams, contact 616-690­ 8609. FREEPORT BAPTIST CHURCH 180 County Line Rd.. Freeport. MI 49325. (269) 760-1928. Pastor Ron. A traditional style of worship, no gimmicks, and friendly people welcome you to worship at "an old country church.' Sunday School 9:45 a m. Sunday Worship 11 a m. Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study and Prayer 7p.m. Give us the pleasure of meeting you! GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. .M-79 Highway. Nashville. MI 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe. (517) 852­ 1783. Sunday service 10am. Fellowship lime before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. HASTINGS HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 2920 S. M-37 Hwy. (M-37 at M-79) Pastor Kim Melzer. Phone 269-945-4995. hustings h opeumc.org hastingshopeumetf* gmail. com IV? welcome YOU to join us nn Sunday Mornings al'10:30 for worship! Find Us On Facehook! hattingihopetunc. PI.EASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road. Dowling. MI 49050. Pastor. Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a m.. Sunday School 11 a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.: Bible Study & Prayer lime Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. MCCALLUM UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH 5505 Otis Lake Rd., Delton. MJ 49046. Phone: 269-623­ 8226. New pastor - Jerald Jones Sunday Service: 10: 31-11.46; ' Coffee Connection. Nursery. Children’s ministry. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIA INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 915 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10:30 a.m Holy Communion (each week) T he Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T, Husiwick. 'lhe church phone number is 269-795­ 2370 and lhe rectory number is 269-948-9327. Our church website r www.samchurch. org. We are part of the Dios esc of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal C hurch ol Nonh America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1674 S. State Rd.. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone 269-94522X5. Sunday morning service lime: 10 a.m. with nursery and preschool available. lifegate COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd.. P.O. Box 273. Hastings. MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948 0900. Website: www.lifegateoc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m- Wednesday IJfe Group 6:30 pm. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd.. P.O. Box 765. (comer of Milo Rd. & S. M-43). Delton. Ml 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool. (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11:30am. Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 to 7:30 pm. W(M)l>GROVEHRErHRKN CHRISTIAN PARISH .1887 Coals Grove Rd'J, Ran Jail Bertrand Wheelehair accessible and elevalo. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 Youth activities: call lor information. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF HASTINGS Sharing Jem* our community <£ the world. 405 N.M-37 Hwy., Hastings, Ml 49058. (269 ) 945-5463. w ww.f jr bJ clllLBi111 L»i £I i ng. * • prg, 9 a.m. Classes and Gatherings for All ages; 9:45 a.m. Worship (Children s Worship Offered); 10.45 a.m. Coffee Fellowship; 11:15 a.m. Coffee Talk with Pastor Dan. Follow us on Facebook. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main. Woodland. Ml 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Kathy Smith. Sunday Worship 9:15 am HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of W ho jesus Is To The World Around Us”. 2635 N. M-43 Hwy.. P.O. Box 8. Hastings. Telephone 269 945-9121. Email liiiilfalti” gmail.com. Website: wwwJliSL ingsfreemethodistAom. Pastor Brian Teed, Student Ministries Director. Emma Miller. Wor­ ship Director. Martha Stoetzel. Sundays: Nursery and tod­ dler (birth through age 3) care provided. SUNDAY MORN­ ING FAMILY HOUR WEL­ COME ALL AGES AND STAGES OF LIFE AT 9:30 GREEN STREET a.m. Deep Blue, Loving God, UNITED METHODIST Loving Neighbor Preschool CHURCH age 3-5th Grade. Live: 6th 12th 209 W. Green St.. Hastings. Grade. Adult Standard and MI 49058. Rev. Bryce Adult Elective classes. Col fee Feighncr Office Phone: 269­ Talk: Fellowship Hall. Cookies 945.9574. Email: office, at 10:05 a.m. Worship Sen ice: greenstreetumcfogmail.cam. 10.30 a.m. & Children’s Sunday, Schedule • The Church age 4-4th grade dis­ Probe 9:30 a.m. ; 'Hie Word missed during service. Youth 10 a m.: The Table 10:30 a.m Group at 6 p.m. 2nd Tuesday: Nursery Care is available Young Women’s Small Group. 6 through age 4; PrcK-8th p.m. Wednesday: Women’s grade Sunday School 10 a.m.; Bible Study 6:30-7:30 p.m. Sunday School for Adults al KID’S CLUB: Feb. 5th-Mareh 11 a.m. Upright Revolt 18th, 6:30-7:45 p.m. Thurs­ Youth Ministry (6th-12th day: Adult Bible Study 10 am. grades) 5:30-7:30 p.m. FREE Community Meal every For more information please TUesday at 5 p.m. Refer to contact the church or follow us Facebook for weather on fare b<x)k. conditions. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH HASTINGS Discover God’s Grace with us! BAPTIST CHURCH Holy Communion Every Sunday! 309 E. Woodlawn. Hastings. Worship services at 8 a.m. and Matt Moser. Lead Pastor. 10:45 a.m. Nursery available Sunday Services: 9 15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages: both services. Pastor Ken 10:30 a.m. Worship Service: Scheck II. paslorkcn^' graceSenior High Youth Group hastings.org. Location: 239 E. 6-8 p.m.: Young Adults 6-9 North St.. Hastings. 269-945­ p tn. Wednesday, Family 9414 or 945-26-15, fax 269­ Night 6:30-8 p.m., AWANA 945-2698. www.grace(Children Kindcrgarten-5th hastings.org. Facebook: Grace Grade). 6:30-8 p m. Middle Lutheran Church-ELCA School Youth Group; 6:30 Hastings, Ml. p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948­ 8004 for information on MITT (Mothers in Training Together). Spirts Ministries, Quilling. Ladies Bible Study. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at the Maple Leaf Grange. Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd.. Nashville. Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise A. Worship 10:30 a.m. 6 p.m.: Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616-731-5194.. WELCOME CORNERS UNTI ED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway. Hastings. Ml 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship .Services: Sunday, 9.45 a.m Bill was born on June 3. 1952 in Hastings, the son of Robert and June VanDenburg. ” Bill attended Altoft Country School, graduating from Hastings High School in 1970 He worked with his father at Safety Service lor many yean, before buying and opening Bill’s Safety Service. After retirement, he drove for Schwan’s for many years.and enjoyed it. . Bill look pleasure in hunting deer and game birds, fishing,fly-tying, playing tennis, cross country skiing, gardening, reading, especially his beloved Stephen King books, enjoying his.favoritefoods. lemon cake with lemon frosting. cookies, and popcoin, and spending time withfanih. Bill was preceded in death by his lather, Robert VanDenbiirg. He is survived by his mother. June VanDenburg: daughter. Kelli (Aaron) Newberry ; son. Derek (Sarah i VanDenburg. grandchildren. Aaron. Andrew. and Kennedy Newberry. Emma and Adrianne VanDenburg. all of Hastings; brothers. David (Jane) VanDenburg of (iw inn; brother. James VanDenburg cf Hastings; several aunts, uncles, cousinj, and nieces, his beloved dogs Gus andlexi. his kitty. Oreo, and many friends. t In lieu ol flowers, nxxjorfal contributions can be made in hotter of Bih to the Barry County Serenity Club or the Barry County Animal Shelter. Due to the Michigan Governor's Executive Order limiting gathering^ thc family will schedule a visitation and .service at a later date and will be posted al our website. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, to leave an online condolence, visit w w w.e i irbacltfune ralhoi ne corn. Daniel Lee l-6ltu.' (Bear). a£e • ol Hastings, n . • Pa"«i ilWay 0|) March I-'. 2020. Uaroel was boni o' A •] jfl. 10>8 m iak"11'; S0"l «> I and Don"1'.' Mae ‘Holcomb) Lohus. Daniel was a 1977 o of Hastings ...... •»>d they enjoys 1,11 ll)CCtlier. ,Xl"K'1 "as information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churdles and these local businesses: sfafob nasinigs 945-9554 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 B HASTINGS k.:- MxKUtfW 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 ■|s'"l,,'S "‘ Follow The ’ Hastings Banner on Facebook to keep up to date until the new edition ! is printed! He i f"" - '...ndaiiMien. r.ter. I.v.ri b’ amis.rnuie *>>’nii'«‘^.phevvs •'nd a lor of |t;cnds '■‘Visin’. in lieu •ontrtbuiions ‘>1 flow<Ts , can |;v niciv.ori-1’ *■ ’clUl Kidney 1 °6iidati()u > or v I Tnkhvn’s Hospital t>t Jude’s Iv')lle 'he V •^eilUvc Older / , HhVtini'.s. lhe ’ jnd^rvtce '.‘•'""e Grand Rapids. He was preceded in death by his infant son Joseph; his parents Edward and Madeline (Lybarker) Schmiedicke. and his brother. Joseph. He is survived by his wife of 53 years. Pamela (Koch) and diiughters. Elizabeth (Omar: grandsons. Michael and David) Flores and Jessica (Dustin) Wolff: brothers. Thomas (Candice). William (Nancy), and Paul (l»nia); sisters. Mary, Linda. Sue Ann. Donna. Rita (Jerry), and Ruth (Russ); and many nieces and nephew s. Before moving to Hastings in 2013. Gerry and Pam operated a farm in Clare County for over 40 years with cattle, horses, field crops., and had the occasional lamb in lhe house on cold spring nights. The farm also included a? cider mill, maple syrup operation, and honey bees. Gerry worked for the State of Michigan in the Department of Health and Human Services for over 30 years, starlingas a ease worker and advancing to the position of auditing supervisor for stale and federal programs. . Known as “Thc Install Guy.” if you had a problem. Gerry wanted to fix it! An expert carpenter from working with his father Ed and grandfather Ernest, he made everything from picture frames to houses and furniture to garages. Gerry also traveled extensively throughout his life including Ireland where he attended Blackrock College in 1958-59. He also attended Aquinas College and served in the Peace Corp in lhe Dominican Republic. He was a founding member of the Lion’s Club in Harrison, instrumental in establishing the Gateway Farmers Market in Clare, and active in local government in* Clare and Barry counties. Of his many accomplishments, he was most proud of his daughters. Thc funeral service was held on Tuesday March 17. 2020 al thc Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home. 4291 Cascade Rd. SE. Grand Rapids. Ml 49546. Memorial contributions in Gerry ’s name may be made to the Kids Food Basket in Grand Rapids at kidsfoodbasket.org. ' J „,fe lammi: ins "^||er M>.|. Douyh,.. 771/a Gerald Eugene Schmiedicke of Hastings, (formerly Clare) passed away on March 13. 2020 at the age of 79. Gerry was bom on October 24. 1940 in '5, |W his . ........................ « "e IS survived dj-nyhre,.. H., ;'b Mv John Robert Jacobs, age 68 ol lopinabec. passed away Wednesday. March 11. 2020 at McLaren Northern Michigan in Petoskey. Born in Kalamazoo, on February 7, 1952, John was lhe son of Frank and Mavis (Pyle) Jacobs. The family lived in Kalamazoo and Lawrence, in his youth and John graduated from Lawrence High School in 1970. In high school he was an accomplished football player and captain ol his football team. While working as a mechanic at Cooper Dodge in Kalamazoo, John met his future wile. Betty Jo “BJ” Moore who worked in the parts department. On July 4. 1980. they were married at Kanley Chapel on the campus of Western Michigan University where BJ was a student. John sometimes worked three jobs to help BJ finish nursing school. 1'hcy lived in Kalamazoo and in Lawrence lor a time before moving lo Hastings in 1983. During his career as a mechanic. John worked at auto dealerships thmughout lhe Kalamazoo area, lie also worked as a driver for Greyhound Bus for several years. /\fter retiring, he and BJ moved to northern Michigan, settling in Topinabee. John was a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Hastings and later at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Cheboygan. He was an avid golfer, flshenni’.n and NASCAR fan. /Mso an accomplished woodworker, he enjoyed making things for BJ and for other family members. John is survived by Betty Jo. his wife of almost 40 years; his children. Lisa (Rich) Gvishart and Tarni L. Matthews both of Colorado; Kristen (Jason) Roe of Stevensville, John Jacobs II o! Hastings. Justin (Trinika) Jacobs of Winston Salem. N’C and Lindy (Darren) Lee ol r\nn Arbor; grandchildren. Evan. Abby. .Anna. Johnnie. Carter. James. Jordan, Tabby. Owen. Olivia and Amelia; sisters, Billie (Ernest) Shaw of Lawrence. ML Barbara Hull of Lakeland. FL and Brenda (Howard) Miley of Mattawan; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother-in-law, Donald Hall. A Mass of Christian Burial was held Wednesday. March 18. 2020 at Sacred Heart Church, in Cheboygan. /\ second Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday. March 21.2020 at St. Rose ot Lima Catholic Church 805 South Jefferson Street. Hastings. Ml 49058, al II a.m. with visitation on Friday, March 20. 2020 from 5 to 7 pan. (Rosary at 4:30 p in.) at Girrbach Funeral Home 328 South Broadway Street Hastings. Michigan 49058. Per the F.xecutive Order of the Governor, seating will be limited to 50 attendees, l he service will be streamed live at https:,w vv vv.laccbook.com/ GirrbachFunentlHonie; You do not need a l acebook Account to view it. Interment will be at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Hastings. Those who wish are asked to consider memorial contributions to Hospice of Michigan. Arrangements are by Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Gaylord and by Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Please share your memories and personal messages with thc family at www. gnylordfuneralboine.com or giirbachfuneialhomc.net. An..,,,.;J "III lx I"' ued , '» l.-avJ ‘'nishv lind’-''" ’ •‘|ihink.Aon‘ °‘n Water’s Edge Financial llc t (269) 948-9969 - .Apple St. Hastings, Ml 49058 ^v^atersedgennanciai.eom ' �The Hastings Banner —- TburJiy. March 19. 2020 — 7 Assignee and information available horn February 16,1924 K. . 10 John and Ida Chceseman Norton and passed away on March 10.2020 in Fernandina Beach. FL. SIJ® Sraduated from Hastings High School lO^ 'T' ShC marricd John &J.943 !'!ld ,hey were married 59 )uxn> until his passing in 2002. . Ms. Violet spent seven years being a nanny to children and babies. She later worked at Hastings Manufacturing Company, where they made car parts, for over 20 years. After retiring she and John moved to Leesburg. Florida. She enjoyed doing-crafts and crocheting. She made afghan s for most of her children and grandchildren. She also enjovs visiting with family and friends. She was very passionate about her love for the Lord. She was thankful to him for thc way He has provided for her these many years. She was also a breast cancer survivor since 2003. She was a member of the First Black Creek Baptist Church in Penney Farms. She was predeceased by her parents; her husband John; a daughter Connie; a son Gary; a grandson Robert; siblings Howard (Pauline) Norton, Donald (Bonnie) Norton. Vivian (Ping) Beckwith and Evelyn (Calvin) Campbell. She is survived by her son Wayne (Kathy) Birman of Yulee; nine grandchildren; and numerous great grandchildren and great­ great-grandchildren; a sister Evelyn Campbell; and lots of other relatives. Family received friends Friday. March 13. 2020 with graveside services at HaradagcGiddens Holly Hill Funeral Home and Memorial Park, 3601 Old Jennings Rd, Middleburg. FL. Please post words of comfort at www.hollyhillfunerals.com. Leslie Anne Solmes Leslie Anne Solmes, age 75. of Mill Valley, CA and Kerikeri, New Zealand, passed away at Kaiser Hospital in San Rafael, CA on Friday, March 6, 2020. She is survived by her husband, David Grunau; her children. Robert and Andrea Brook; her daughter-in-law. Tiffany; and her brother, David Solmes, as well as a long list of dear friends and relatives. Leslie was preceded in death by her parents, Dewey and Anna Mae Solmes and brother, Russel Allen Solmes. She leaves us witli a true legacy of love. Leslie was bom on January 10. 1945 in Chicago, IL to Dewey and Anna Mae Solmes. She graduated from Hastings High School in 1963, and was honored as the Hastings High School Alumni of die Year in 2017. Leslie was awarded a full paid scholarship to Michigan State University where she received her BA in history and economics in 1967. Ueslie spent her distinguished career in the energy field and became a renowned expert and pioneer in energy efficiency. She began at Michigan State University doing energy efficiency outreach, and in 1980 moved her family to Miami, FL to take up thc post of Director of Energy Management for Dade County. FL. Leslie left Florida in 1991. eventually moving to southern California. After stints w ith an Orange County engineering firm and with Southern California Edison, Leslie move to Marin County and founded LAS & Associates. Inc., a consulting linn dedicated £ helping large scale public and pnvatc entities design, build and implement energy infrastructure upgrade projects. She created he groundbreaking Oppormnuy n utocol fur optimizing project design and f . r built a soilware program that applied he OA to streamline project implementation, the OA to m u & Associates, Inc. . number of colleges and included a us. Navy she universities as wUl^ wj|h encrgy Bernard L. Killinger. long-time resident of Hastings, devoted father, loving husband and blessed child of our Lord Savior Jesus Christ, was called home Friday, March 6, 2020 at Thomapple Manor. He was 92. Bernie was bom August 20th, 1927 in Shanagolden, Wisconsin, a small village near the town of Glidden. As a teenager, “listening to God's call’’ as he termed it, he entered the seminary in Canton. Ohio at Brunnerdale Seminary High School. After a careful consideration of his life’s journey with family and friends he moved to Owosso, MI where he graduated from Owosso High School and married Maxine Garden also from Owosso in February of 1951. For a time they stayed in Owosso during which their daughter Kathleen and son Timothy were bom. in I960, Bernie moved the family to Vermontville, where Bernie worked at Michigan Magnetics. Soon after, they moved to Algonquin Lake outside Hastings where sons Thomas and Buck were bom. He retired from Michigan Magnetics in 1986. and later worked for J-Ad Graphics. Bernie loved to write. In 1945. he wrote •‘The Bells of Brunnerdale’’, an autobiography of sorts that detailed his journey to become a priest and his time at the seminary between 1940 and 1944. In 2012. the book was finally republished. Most recently, he wrote or co-wrote other family works such as “Sibling Reveries’’ and “Tales From Under lhe Texas Tree’’ - both telling bygone stories of family, lost to time...’Come, reminisce along with me. With you I’ll share my reverie. Let’s live again the distant past, those years that flitted by so fast’ Throughout his life, Bernie dedicated himself lo the church and since 1963 was a member of Saint Rose Catholic church. But it was his lime at Brunnerdale that stayed with him his whole life and helped develop thc wonderful man we have all come to know and love. In lhe Foreword from “The Bells of Brunnerdale” he wrote; “With love and gratitude, 1 dedicate this little book lo my wife Maxine, who now­ lives with God. And to my children, Kathleen Marie. Timothy James, Thomas Joseph and Bernard Jr. who individually and collectively are ‘The Great Amen’ lo my happy vocation.” As a true renaissance man, Bernie loved playing the organ during mass, played lhe piano and the violin and laughi himself to play the hammered dulcimer. During his retirement years he enjoyed painting, was a master at crocheting and knitted some spectacular afghans for family and friends. Bernie is preceded in death by his wife Maxine (2007) and his son Thomas (2015). He is also survived by his sister Mary Elizabeth Weeks of Tucson, AZ; brothers Louis Kenneth of Midland, Tony of Midland. Texas; daughter Kathleen Shay of Hastings; sons Timothy of Glen Allen, VA, Bernard (Buck) of Melfa, VA; seven grandchildren - Jeremy Flanigan of Sheridan; Jennifer Jockheck of Ionia; Jason Flanigan of Yorktown, VA; Ryan Shay of Hastings; Joshua Killinger of London-UK; Jordan Killinger of Ionia, Sara Vaicckauskus of Kalamazoo and 14 great-grandchildren. Family will happily receive visitation for the public on Thursday, March 19 from 5-7 p.m. at Girrbach Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, March 20. -020 at St. Rose Catholic Church in Hastings, with burial at Mt. Calvary' Cemetery immediately following. Per ihe Ewaniye Order of the Governor, seating ! ] be limited to 50 attendees. The service Will be streamed live at https://www facebook.com/GirrbachFunerdlHonic - You o not need a Facebook Account to view it In parting and celebration of this man’s wonder ul life, may it be said in Bern "• voice through the ages; -Corpus Domini U:1"’in girrbaehfuneralhomemet °kn“- V'S'‘ was passionate unique vision lor the infrastructure an|he tj.s. and future ol energy ■ around tlie world. on her vision to Leslie sought I P she published a been ,raT she was soon after fnt, nn.lt.plc Janguag^Associlltion oi named a "Legend Energy Engineers. t>y u| |icr home in ^xa*s**,‘* notice Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads ihe Federal Emergency Management Agency, if approved. Local resources - the Barry County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Alliance lias provided a link to resources on its website, mibarry.com/covid-j9-fcsourccs/. Help for small businesses - owners of small businesses may contact a member of the Southwest Michigan First team or thc Michigan Economic Development Corporation Immediate support services: Anyone in need of food, shelter, or additional care options, may dial 211. Self-employed workers and independent contractors - thc governor has opened access to aid, such as benefits being increased from 20 to 26 weeks, application eligibility period being increased from 14 lo 28 days, thc normal in-person registration and work search requirements being suspended. City of Hastings To Men,fb„* ,®f Heatings Mutual Insurance Company. Ha»tlng», Michigan, Notice is hereby ,t|)c ()f Has(jngs Mut^ . Shwnr Nny "‘I' be held at the Home Office. 4()4 Lj51'ht‘d1m?Venu‘:’1 ^stings, Michigan, on Wednesday, April 8. - ‘ng at 9;00 a.m. Thc annual meeting agen­ da includes pi..? , election of the following Directors: Chnstopher J. Fluke, John R. Kerschen. and John L Ward. __________ . —w Michael W. Puemer, Secretary CITY OF HASTINGS request for Bros Street Surface Improvements Crack and Chip Sealing The City of Hastings is soliciting bids for the sur­ face improvements of city streets in Hastings, MI. The Bid Documents will be available at Hastings City Hall starting Monday. March 23, 2020. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals,and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price and other fac­ tors considered. / Bids will be received at Hastings City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 2:00 PM, on Thursday, April 16, 2020 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Bids will be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package - “SEALED BID STREET NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON ORDINANCE NO. 590 TO EXTEND THE EXPIRATION DATE OF PROHIBITIONS ON MARIHUANA ESTABLISHMENTS | The Planning Commission will hold a Public Hearing for the purpose of hearing written and/or oral comments from the public concerning the extending of the expiration date of prohibitions on marihuana establishments to May 31, 2021. The public hearing will be held at 7:00 PM on Monday, May 4 2020 in City Council Chambers on the second • • • : \ i ; floor of City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. All interested citizens are encouraged to attend and to submit comments. A copy of this information is available (or public ’ inspection from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM ^Monday 1 through Friday at the Office of the City Clerk, 201 I East State Street. Hastings, Michigan 49058. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids 9 and services upon five days notice to the City | Clerk at 269.945.2468 or TDD call relay services 800.649.3777. SURFACE IMPROVEMENTS”. Matt Gergen Director of Public Services Jane M. Saurman City Clerk J39159 139160 City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON ORDINANCE NO. 587 AND NO. 588 TO EXTEND the expiration DATE OF PROHIBITIONS ON marihuana City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON ORDINANCE NO. 586 REQUIRING CONNECTIONS TO THE PUBLIC WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM AND TO REGULATE THE USE OF PRIVATE WELLS ESTABLISHMENTS The City of Hastings will hold a Public Hearing *or lhe purpose of hearing written and/or ora comments from the public con­ cerning l“e pending of the expiration date of prohib |ons On marihuana establish­ ments to May-31, 2021. The public hearing will be held a 7:Qq April 13 2020 in Lfty Council Chambers on the second floor of Cib' Ull, 201 East State Street, Hastings. Michigan 49058. All interest1-^ citizens are encouraged to attend and to subn v°niments. future generations ' jfjjcjsmuL-Bci'J textbook cn,U'L’gSflvgstmflO.rid h As the lUMrc10;!9«,n,i“ues unit must not be charged for unemployment ihroueboul he ’Jnitcei States, benefits if their employees become both the SI»W “ rsMing“n ""d lhc federal unemployed. government are P 8t.y> „ sllppoiI Benefits would be extended to workers who have an unanticipated family care responsibility; workers who arc sick, Some of lhe |n°,S *0(1 ,Cs«urces available quarantined, or immunocompromised and who do not have access to paid family and '"’’Small bl!!,'".7detinitton"„fS",;i11 Bu'mess medical leave or are laid off; first responders in thc public health community who become Administnrttonc0[t)I)avin, . '* •**’»''« now ill or arc quarantined due to exposure to includes ,1,e._fonnedSBAth2'T .Grelchcn COVID-19. Whitmer has inf" 'that she is seeking Expanded work share program in an economic 1 b, Joan declaration Michigan: thc same order expands the state’s (or the state. ‘ । ne's owners are work share program to permit employers to encouraged 10 fh submit their maintain operational productivity during applications t<> b ™ SBA loans. P Hnemploy"'1 . "• - the governor declines in regular business activity instead of laying off skilled workers. issued an e’iev“f' >« temporarily Disaster declaration sought - a requested expand eligib>ll,J enX,>lo5''ncnt benefits. major disaster declaration would provide Under the order. p oyer or employing additional unemployment assistance through A copy ^'L^wniation is available for public inspeclioi' bi 8:0o AM lo 5:00 I’M Monday through ('r' 2’at the Office of the City Clerk, 201 East Stat1’ • , Hastings. Michigan 49058. The City, Oroville necessary reasonable aids and q<-°n five days notice to the City Clerk at '’a.2468 or TDD call relay services 800.649-3" L Jane City Clerk The City of Hastings will hold a Public Hearing for the purpose of hearing written and/or oral comments from the public con­ cerning the requiring connections to the : public water supply system and to regulate j the use of private wells. The public hearing will be held at 7:00 PM on Monday, April 13, 2020 in City Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall, 201 East State Street. Hastings. Michigan 49058. All interested citizens are encouraged to attend and to submit comments. A copy of this information is available for public inspection from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday at the Office ol the City Clerk, 201 East Slate Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days notice lo the City Clerk at 269.915.2468 or TDD call relay services 800.649.3777. Jane M. Saurman City Clerk 159155 | �Tire Hast-rgs Banner Rutland Charter Township approves road millage I like fromhnk I ukt i BHKnetk S'tlff H>/7< With!/ S/ti.7 Roads need to lx? repaired. But the question b v ill tlk voters bo willing to pa) for it? hi August. Rutland Chartci Township voters will an&wet that question During the March II meeting, the the incre.be township !*>anl o'''lls,^' lhe ballot i» d ’»< ■'ted S15S.8I SI5K.8I1I t»r tor « ivnd (o put a road nullace qtitMion maintenance. 0 * . . ’I"......... v.. the August election. |n) , Township Sup„xi Wnlw„ saiJ It approved. th. t I pf no urea w.ih.u the h(w ',.r| iwi|v additional null or St I’’-’’ f 2020 over another. I hey siinp|y'stan value.'linn uKtcase would last >« t'he li' l • " a'”' a'"' '«>lk ,he,r " a>'<IW " 2024. ,nt?wCl”,<’"‘ln,il,»|terequeMcunK in the 201.’ Nov entx-r elevtj^ ,Jn volets oppowd a request 1217 to 750 During her repCr. Treasurer Sandy Greenfield cncoiii;^.. ideals to fill out their U.S. Census forinv ’ lhe board also (| p^-ulial recreational marijuana establishments within current circi U “ bstine ol .>11 Msu 1 ',c"'10" ."'V' the township. Watvon handed %urv packets to cvc is from famdv yoga sessions to lunchboard members. ns|,in.. Ih'“ /fdi it on. and md lc-un events lor equine enthusiasts. bnng It back to the -j ,K. packet, ■ .A collection of free educational resettree allowed for each ol (|K. (1|^b|X write down for parents and caregivers to keep thildre ,ce regardin;., engaged in learning throughout the school restnettons they wol,|d , manjuana establishment and grow facilities. I be plan ,s fw m(.n)btfrs |() b’online learning opportunities lor adults collaborate at a | lltUn . . j pll|| a|| who nu»y want10 continue their own lifelong thetrthm,glusand ideas,'“titer. learning. . . Hie board of trusty nLr -A series of resources to help individuals -Discussed survCyin„ cemetery in stay healthy and active during social distantanticipation of fulure in1’. -Approved a budget amendment to make -A variety of educational articles related to topics, such as dealing with family stress, way for a new employ^ -Accepted an ordinance for its first talking to children about novel coronavirus reading. rhe ordinance is the .same passed by and managing finances. As thc response to the novel corona virus the Joint I lanning Commission detailing pandemic evolves. MSU Extension will con­ changes to thc townships zoning ordinance tinue to add and curate digital resources to Pertaining to the keeping of animals. MSU Extension providing variety of online programming life due lo novel coronavirus. Michigan Mate I Diversity I ntension staff remains committed lo serving Michigan resident*. MSI' lAtenoon has created a suite ol online resources and programming fol dmtamilies and individuals asadable through its new Remote learning am' g...iitrees website. canr.tn'U.cdu rlr indexlhe Intension program, historical!y. as .liried l;,cetof.icc and group learning opportunities. Amid sm-ial distancing>' rm ndations. -tall i- modify mg and transition ing it- programming to ad.yjtal space• Our .sl-.vt.ou.il teams .ue qin.kb r- m ..p ability to offer vnt.ul P»iJa, \,..IM,WC can e.-atintic to ensure tndnidufamilies. farmers, business owners and c.munnnilies get the inionnation they need they need it." Jett P»yer. MSU note Learning and Resources site is shop tor MM Extension's digital nd educational materials related to support individuals, businesses, communities and families. CANCELLATIONS, continued from page 1 . large group meetings. Hours remain the same, and service for policyholders will not J*, affected. Company officials arc ^ncouraojpg employees, policyholders, and agents to follow recommended health guidelines and do w hat's best for their safety. Frank Frost to celebrate 90th birthday The family <»f Frank '’Bud” Fr<».4 would iikc lo acknowledge their father’s 9()th birthday, which will be March 20, 2020 with ;; card shens er ’i he family will be holding a family party tor Bud hut would like to encourage those who would like lo send him birthday wishes to send a card lo 7224 7 upper Lake Rd., I nkc Odessa. Ml 48849. Bidhsrf Cilsiirik turns 99 Marclfi 23 Richard Clark will be turning 99 on March 23. 202(1. Please help him celebrate by­ sending cards and notes lo Richard Clark, 2700 Nashville Rd.. Rm 404, Hastings, Ml 4005 8. Pennock Health and Wellness Center The Pennock Health and Wellness Center closed Monday afternoon and will remain closed until further notice. All activities and appointments, including manage services and group classes, arc canceled. Ujxfatcs and new information will be ^red on Pennock's Facebook group. Membership dues for March 16-31. will be credited to members'iceounts (allow five to seven days). It the Wdhess Center remains closed April I, April dueswill not In: charged. Dues will only resume Mkn the building reopens. Participant; in at) classes and programs w ill get a credit for future programs and classes. the Poff garage and thc Peru Marquette Railroad tracks. Al a later lime, an addition w as made al the east end of the tire station lo accommodate lhe village council and public restrooms. Village elections also were held in the building. 'Die new While's Bridge construction has reached the half-way mark. It will have an 80.000-pound weight restriction, but it can handle an ambulance, school bus, or road commission truck. 'Lhe original bridge across the Flat River stood for 144 years until an arsonist burned it in July 2013.The perpetrator of this crime has never been found. The farewell reception set for Rev. Mark and Kathie Jan ie of the First Congregational Church has been canceled. NOTICE The Barry County Community Dialogue Event scheduled for Thursday, March 19, 2020 at 7:00 p.m., at Grace Community Church, in Nashville, MI, for the purpose of discussion for a potential millage election in August 2020, has been cancelled pursuant to Governor Whitmer’s Executive Order restricting the size of public gatherings in response to the COVID-19 virus. For more information contact (269) 945-1284. 421 V/ Woodlawn Avp. Hastings, Ml 49050 (2G9) 915 3553 # Don’t Let Coronavirus Infect Your Investment Strategy As you know, the coro­ navirus has become a ma­ jor health concern, not just in China, but in other parts <>! lhe world, too and it’s also shaken up thc financial markets. As an individual investor, how concerned should you be? The impact of the coro­ navirus on the markets isn’t surprising. China is the world’s second-largest economy, and when it ex­ periences factory closures, supply chain disruptions and city lockdowns, lhe ripple eU’ecl on lhe world’s other economies is consid­ erable Plus, the financial markets simply don’t like uncertainty and there’s a lot of that associated with this outbreak and the efforts to contain it. Nonetheless, instead of worrying over events you can’t control, try to focus on what you can do in this in­ vestment climate. I lere arc a few suggestions: • Don i panii ■. The coro­ navirus may well cause continued market volatil­ ity over thc next several weeks, or even months. Bul it’s important for investors to take a long-term view. Market corrections - typ­ ically defined as a drop in investment prices of 10% dr more are a fairly common occurrence, and wc mayhave been overdue for one even before the coronavi­ rus scare. In any case, it’s generally a good idea not to radically revamp your investment strategy unless you experience a major change in your personal life • a significant career move, medical condition, change in family situation, etc. • lie aware of history. I he coronavirus is certainly se­ rious, but it’s not the only viral outbreak we’ve seen in recent decades. During these earlier pandemics, the financial markets also took a hit, but they bounced back. For example, from late April 2003, in the midst of SARS (severe acute re­ spiratory syndrome) until late April 2004, thc S&P 500 rose about 21 percent.* And other large gains were recorded following lhe out­ break and decline of the Ebola and Zika viruses. Of course, lhe past perfor­ mance of ihe markets in pandemic situations can’t necessarily predict future market developments; ev­ ery situation is ditferem, and over the next year, re­ turns might be modest, as prices have already soared in thc 11 years since they bottomed out during the fi­ nancial crisis of 2008-09. • Don 't try to time the market. We may well see coronavirus-based volatility in the near future -• but vol­ atility implies “ups" as well as “downs.’’ If you try to time the market by guessing at highs and lows, and then “buying high and selling low,” you might get lucky could just as easily miss the • Keep a dhersifieti port­ folio In addition to avoiding efforts to time the market, vou should also stay away from trying to Pick *‘uin" ner.s" and “losers’’ among individual investments in thc marketplace of virus­ es. Instead, try to build and maintain a diversified port­ folio. consisting of an array of different asset classes, with the allocation ol these assets based on your risk tolerance and time horizon. Diversification doesn’t pre­ vent losses or guarantee profits in a declining mar­ ket, bul it may help reduce the impact of volatility on your portfolio. You may not be able to totally quarantine your port­ folio from this serious virus in the short term, but by fol­ lowing a consistent, long­ term investment strategy that’s appropriate for your individual needs, you’ll be doing what you can to help yourself move toward your financial goals. •The S&P 500 is unman­ aged. not available for di­ rect investment and is not meant to depict an actual investment. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, A (ember SIPC State unemployment office Michigan unemployment benefit claims should be filed online. Michigan Works is temporarilywaiving its requirement that people seeking unemploy ment file their claims in person. . Elaine Garlock Not much happening in Lake Odessa these days Like other places, meetings arc canceled, many businesses are closed, restaurants are offering take-out service, the library is closed, and churches have scaled back. The Lake Odessa Area Historical Societymet March 12. 'ihe attendance was low but the enthusiasm was high for lhe vintage photographs from a family estate. Hie pictures included the 1922 fire station with all thc firemen pored in their protective garb beside thc truck. Other pictures included views toward the southeast from thc catwalk surrounding the water i.mk. I he lank and the lire .station were on lire easi j-ide ol fourth Avenue between Lundin 2i69V/.M-43-Hwy.,SurteA Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 818-0423 Andrew Cove, Kellogg Community College - All campuses and offices closed Wednesday at noon, bul classes will continue in an online formal. Commencement has been canceled along with all campus events, including theater productions, musical performances and student awanl ceremonies, through May 15. An updated list of all event cancellations is available at KelloggxdtVcoconav irus. Thornapple Arts Council lhe 1 homapple Jazz Festival has been canceled. The office will be closed until further notice. Statt may be reached bv phone. 269 915 2002. or email Monday through Ihursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m or through its social media pages. Staff-specific contact information can be found here. Hastings Community Music School the school is closed until April 13- l he April 1« spring recital will be rescheduled. Parents and students will be upda-ed us decisions are made. Klks Cabin Fever Reliever fundraiser postponed until May 30. GET ALL THE NEWS of Barry COUNTY! Subscribe to th® Hastings Ban*1®" Call 269-945-9554 for m°re information. Popping keraals Dr. Universe: How was popcorn discovered? Jalen, 12, Benson. N.C. Dear Jalen. I here’s nothing like popconi in progress -snapping kernels, a wonderful aroma and knowledge that a delicious snack will be ready in minutes. It gives you some good lime lo think and wonder: How did humans first start doing this? To find out popcorn’s source, I visited my friend Erin Thornton, an archaeologist at Washington State University. Archaeologists study how humans lived in the past, including the things they ate. To learn the story of popcorn, we have lo trace the history of maize. Maize is another word for what you think of as coni. Humans grow it all over the world today, but it all started in Mexico almost 9,(X)0 years ago. Long before maize, there was a plant called teosinte (lay-oh seen-tay). If you saw< teosinte in person, you probably wouldn't guess it’s the grandparent of your popcorn. "It doesn’t really look like modem maize al all because it lacks large cobs. Instead, it looks more like a weedy gruss.’’ Thornton said. Bul over time, ancient people selected h<"inn plants with softer and la^cr num­ bers of kernels. Over many generations this resulted in the plant we know as maize Many scientists think all of the first com was popping com. Il was important to the jK'ople who made it. T he Aztecs used pop corn lor both decoration and for catino They also had a word, totapoca, for the sound of popcorn popping. I he Maj a even tell stories about humans being created from maize. It speaks volumes about how important this crop was to people who lived at that lime,’’ Thornton said. Popcorn is easily destroyed, so it can be hard for archaeologists to find it after hun­ dreds or thousands of years. But the oldest popcorn ever found conies from a cave in New Mexico, estimated to be 5,600 years old. We don’t know exactly who first discov­ ered that popcorn can pop. It would have happened when people first started mixing dried kernels and heat. Popcorn pops through interaction with heat. If you've ever looked at po|>eorn ker­ nels before popping, you know they have a very hard outer shell.lhe insides are hard, too - until heal touches them. th ?ViKn h.enl.meels lhe n^tunil moisture in withH?., • !' ,7'*'“ P’wsurized steam k-n -r he • |,C ' lhis ,leain softcns ,he k rods tnstdes. That heat and pressure more'Cn'tm "’e kCn,el Can’'il a">' more. And then pop! |t explodes. suddemv I |X,|>- -o |,resSUre in kentel hat h??. n>,V "’e s,eam vxpaudc. All (hat inner gixxhtess puffs out That's whv ^7 looks like a little cloud y ers u\ed"tl kno.w 11 ,lle flrsI popcorn niak- colonK :T;'"’ -S' But whe" Foropean n° you have . Ur. Universe Uuivers'e. Sen I 'luysllo"-' Ask Dr. Sime l'>>ivervity\'Ie"i!|'1 Wash,n«lon "riU-rut Dr.Univer L'’' Scicnusl and �The Hinting; Banner — Thursday March 19. ?C20 • look back at the stories J columns on local history In the Hastings Banner The ‘Biggest Little Parade’ saw repeated cancellations . The Biggest Link St. Patrick’s Dav Parade in downtown Hastings, like manv other things this week, wax called off due to COV ID-19. I his was the first time the parade was truly canceled. However, for 20 years, mans outlandish excuses were blamed for lhe demise of a once-fictilious parade The parade, which would have marked its 16th year luesday. had its origins in an innocent two-sentence made-up anecdote in the March 12, 1985. Reminder: ’’The annual South Jefferson Street St. Patrick’s Day Parade hits been postponed until next year because the cart broke down. However, we invite you to parade down South Jefferson Street any day this week to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with jour favorite merchants." Pharmacist Dave Jasperse, in his weekly ’’South Jefferson Street News” column, promoted his and neighboring businesses along with the community, charitable events, holidays, local concerts or performances, and anything else that struck his fancy - mixing in whimsy, blarney and quirky customer challenges. The column was a regular feature in his full-page ad for Bosley Pharmacy. "Little Bucky” was a common image m the ad. and later the MedBug (a yellow Volkswagen Bug used for promotions and deliveries) was an added. Every week wax different. Jasperse tying in his “SJS News” with obscure national holidays, local events, and maybe even poking fun at himself or others, ’lhe print was small, but Jasperse had a big following. Little did he know in March 1985 what that first litde bit o' fake news would lead lo. For the next 19 years, Jasperse built on ihe tomfoolery behind the parade that never was meant to be. Il was always canceled at the last minute - the reasons crowing in absurdity each lime. Ihe characters, too. changed from 1985 to 2005. the year lhe parade actually happened. That first procession was short, just two city blocks along South Jefferson Street. But it drew a lot of people. Since 2005. the parade has continued to be silly, short, and a reason to don celebratory tor at least green) attire, get outdoors and welcome spring. Until this year. xNo roving rovers. mischievous leprechauns, donkey donnybrooks. fickle celebrities or rebuffed permits were behind The 2020 parade really Was cancoIed While lhe call was deJ Friday, March 13, four days before l. Patrick’s Day, it was truly at the last minute for ihe Reminder. The luck ol the kish allowed barely enough tinic o rewrite the story and slap a cancellation notice on the front cover before going to press. fabricated reasons the make-believe parade was canceled tor nearly 20 years: Re started a pattern in his p)g^ column: He picked up on "hat. he d written the year before - and ran with it. "We got the cart fixed, but the annual South Jefferson Street St. Patrick's Day Parade had to be canceled because the mule stepped on our leprechaun, and he is home The late Dave Jasperse, over the course of 20 years, concocted reasons why a make-believe St. Patricks Day parade was canceled at lhe last minute. Then, to his surprise, a real parade was planned in 2005 and continued without glitches for 15 years. Z\ canceled parade this year brings Jasperse. pictured here in 2015. and his calamitous tales to mind. (File photo) cancelation of Tuesday's parade. A pharmacist, businessman and city council member. Jasperse. probably would have agreed with cancelation, though the reason is nothing nearly as funny or as absurd as w hat Jasperse concocted. So. tn honor ol Jasperse - and for a little light-hearted reading - here’s an abbreviated version of his collective columns with their recuperating.” The cart, mule and leprechaun made a return appearance in 1987. "Well, we got the cart fixed, and our leprechaun recovered from the mule stepping on him, and we thought this year’s St. Patrick’s Day parade down South Jefferson Street was a go. But. that sneaky devil got a call from The Big Apple lo appear in their parade, and lhe ungrateful wretch accepted their invitation. So sad. Wc had to cancel our parade again.” In 1988, some new characters were introduced as the saga grew. "Dant! We were all set to go with the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade down Soulh Jefferson Street when the Clydesdales got a better offer, the rcplicement leprechaun got pregnant, and (he city’s street sweeper broke. Rather than a parade dow n a dirty street on a mule holding a three leaf clover, we canceled.” , Another 'spokts-animaT joined the list of no-shows in 1989. "Listen to this tale of woe. We had the Clydesdales booked again this year; but. they were spooked by Spuds McKenzie while filming a St. Patrick’s Day commercial and haven’t been seen since. Our efforts to book a replacement al this late dale were lo no avail, and so. we had lo cancel the South Jefferson Street St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Again!” The roster of collaborators grew as the “South Jefferson Street News" entered the !990s, and the annual account disappointment amtinued. "Woeful tale! As you all know, the Clydesdales finked out on us twice in past years; so, we booked the Irish Rovers this year. Begorrah. they got an offer to rove to the White House for a St. Patrick’s Day performance, and it was 'Soyonara SJS.’ We then tried to get the Clydesdales, but lhey were busy, so they offered us Spuds McKenzie, the original party animal, and two of his babies. We had to turn down Spuds because this is a family show and he doesn’t quite fit our wholesome image. Finally, Little Bucky (he is part leprechaun, you know) got so frustrated that he canceled the South Jefferson Street St. Patrick's Day Parade. Again! Disappointment! The first local cili'cn UIJ({ reference to current events madt an appearance in Jasperses mournful tale in p)yj “As you know, in years past, our efforts to present the annual South Jefferson Street St. Patrick s Day Para c have uq( been very successful. But. this year was going to Ik* different. With the of Gordon Cove (former beer distributor). wc again the Clydesdales SpU(Is McKenzie driving the wagon and Irish Rovers singing on top as the parade marched down South Jefferson. 's>ght! Alas, the IGulfJ war ended and t c ^Jydesdales have to work overtime delivers Bud beeause when the troops get home, t is gojng one heck of a celebration. <-cnajn|y> |htf cnd of the war is happy ,u‘"5’’Ut Jis a result, we had to cancel thc parade-P“”. The sort awful mW* 0 1 te hapless parade and its now-fanuhu Qst characters continued in 1992"Wc had it all to^j, lhc Cl)dcsdales had an open dale. In . to sing. Spuds amI 1 ‘ way, and our lepree*1Finally, lhe South1 . Auorvnnp can om me snon. tun priuwcT - or not Anyone and every ado Rj|a and Ned Brown march with r,lqn, (° ' houl a reM0'-JS X * Library which opened in 2007 (Frte’ Pr°m°,e the new green J 1 (>Vers were ready 'cs were on their jumping for joy. Patrick’s Day j ,‘eudy to march. But then, someone realized it was. , 1 1..^ Michigan I presidential Pl’,l.bir!nht;iL <r\Ulle was so afraid they would be ,)U|^n lor a politician and their M’u,ar‘!Lx not a nosedive that they found e*L jdtf ’ uP|K\tr. We had ’9 cancel the P’ ‘ ’ Again! Major disappointment!’ ,r Vn Politicians 1*““ J l‘lmher plot t* ist P<w 9 in 199J. ‘This was the year if would all come together. Little Bucky (that crazy leprechaun) took over the plans for our annual South Jefferson Slrcel St. Patrick's Day Parade. He booked George K impel to sing ’Danny Boy’ while riding down lhe street perched on a Blarney Slone from Killamey pulled by the Clydesdales driven by Spuds McKenzie with an Irish Rover astride each horse singing ‘My Though just an image in Hie Bostey Wild Irish Rose’ followed later in the day by a Scan O’Casey play performed by lhe Irish Pharmacy weekly ad. Little Bucky was International Theater Company at Central credited with success or blamed for Auditorium. Just a super show! ’Then George calamity over the years. Stephanopoulos (he's not even Irish) heard about (he great lineup and invited all these “This i> the woefulest talc yet. Despite people to perform for Bill Clinton al thc last year’s disappointment, also known as the White House on St. Patrick's Day. Quicker ‘Irish Fiasco.’ the Irish lawyer begged to be than you can say Tuck o' the Irish’ those pul in charge of thc South Jefferson Street St. FOBs (Friends of Bill) dumped us and Patrick’s Day Parade again this year. Hr headed to Washington. D.C., for lhe holiday. again had ironclad contracts with an Irish Wc had to cancel, again. Disappointment!” tenor from Jersey, the Philadelphia Irish Jig Clinton made another t ame.o appearance Dance Group. the Clydesdales, and. of in 1994. course, the famous juggling act of our own "Our plans for the South Jefferson Street Little Bucky. Alas, all was set to go when St. Patrick's Day parade were not so cute little leprechaun was born early and (wc) grandiose this year. A simple parade featuring had to cancel again. Woe is us.” the Clydesdales pulling a wagon, followed by As the decade drew to a close, the the Irish National Band playing appropriate parade’s fate didn't improve in 1999. music (i.e., 'My Wild Irish Rose.’ etc.), “‘Pitiful’ accurately describes our past followed by Spuds McKenzie and the babes, efforts to stage the annual SJS St. Patrick’s followed by President Clinton playing his Day parade. Most of you will remember thc jazz rendition of ‘Danny Boy’ on the sax. woeful tale of the former Irish lawyer, (he is (The guy owes us one). Alas, a national still a lawyer, but can no longer call himself emergency and thc president and Hillary had Irish) ns he tried to lead the past two parades. to cancel. When the word got out. the other Needless to say, the return of this guy was participants started fading away until we not an option. But. after the merciless were left with Little Bucky (that crazy pleading of his fellow Irishman (known to leprechaun) and his acrobatic act. So, we most of you as the Blarney Master), we gave canceled the parade again.” Gordo a third chance. B'Goth and Begorrah, Despite more modest goals in 1995, the they started out with a bang, booking the parade, once again, was not to be. Clydesdales from Jersey, an Irish marching "Little Bucky made plans for a simple, band from Paducah, a leprechaun from yet tasteful, South Jefferson Street St. Miami looking for redemption, and Irish Patrick’s Day Parade this year. After many tenor specializing in ‘Danny Boy’ and. of disappointments in years past, it seemed course, the juggling act of our own Little appropriate lo lone it down. A team of Irish Bucky. Looking good, ready to march down donkeys pulling a wagon of Drewrys (the the street, lhe SJS St. Palrick’s Day Parade Clydesdales again turned us down), followed was a reality. Bul then. B’Gosh and by the Irish Crooners (thc Rovers were Begorrah, one of our local judges (who shall unavailable) singing ‘My Wild Irish Rose’ in remain nameless) appointed our guys to ragtime, along with Duds McKenzie (Spuds' defend an Irish Rover who roved where he brother) and his babes (Spuds was booked in shouldn’t have one night, and they resigned, Vegas) and ending with Little Bucky and his pleading conflict of interest. Alas, no parade acrobatic act. always the hit of any show. for yet another year.” Ready to go. Oops, lhe Cily of Hastings Even a new millennium didn’t bring the turned down our parade permit supposedly luck of the Irish to South Jefferson Street in because we applied too late. Hmmm. Rumors 2000. that our Polish mayor nixed the parade are, "Three long, long years, wailing for so far, unfounded." Gordo (the bald leprechaun) and the Blarney % The parade's luck wasn't any better in Master to pul on lhe annual South Jefferson 1996, even though therc was an attempt to Street St. Patrick's Day parade. Three add a street party. chances. Three outs. Pitiful. This year we “Little Bucky wanted a modest and wanted a modest effort ... something classy, tasteful St. Palrick’s Day parade and street something modest, something befitting our parly lo make up for our previous simple Irish heritage. So, we Kicked the disappointments — something between lhe Dublin Singers, the Irish National Band New York parade that has marched every playing appropriate music, the Irish Tenor year since 1762 and now lasts six hours and from New Jersey, one of our local boasts over a million spectators and thc Clydesdales to pull the wagon, and. of World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade course. Little Buck) and his juggling act. All that goes for less than half a block and lasts set. Then John [McCainJ pulled out of the five minutes. The Buck put his cousin. Peter presidential race and they were all too upset O’Bucky in charge, and he booked one to play lhe gig. We had to cancel. Again.” outlaw Clydesdale, a roving Irish Rover, a Jasperse continued to indulge in a little not-so-famous Irish tenor and, of course, the hyperbole for the sake of storytelling while juggling act of Little Bucky. Wc were all set. writing his 2001 entry. bul then, fate again dealt our parade a cruel "... ’This year, in an effort to redeem blow. Peter was offered a part in the new themselves from their woefully pitiful past horror flick, ‘leprechaun IV: The Final attempts, lhe Irish duo of the Bald Story’ and he used thc parade and party Leprechaun and lhe Blarney Master begged money to fly to Tinseltown. So sad; we had for another chance to plan die parade. Bucky — the lucky, compassionate, conservative to cancel the parade ...” Irishman that he is — ignored the advice of The sorrow continued in 1997. “You wouldn’t believe this woeful tale! everyone and let the boys try again. They As you know, our past attempts to stage the booked Bill and his sax (the guy needs a job), annual Soulh Jefferson Street St. Patricks the Irish String Band, thc Dublin Boys, the Day Parade and Street Party have been less Irish tenor from Jersey, the Clydesdales than successful. Except for the year Little pulling an Irish calliope and. of course, Bucky rode down lhe street in his little green Bucky the Lucky. Looking good, but then — suit atop an Irish donkey bemoaning his lack Begorrah, lhe judges got a pay raise and our of Irish luck with a wail heard all the way to hapless duo couldn’t resist offering some Dublin, we have had lo cancel for one reason inappropriate remarks (unprintable here) or another. But. not this year. We brought in a about said raise, and they were promptly anil professional Irish lawyer to run the show. properly sanctioned. No extracurricular Gordo has ironclad contracts from all the activities. Disappointed again, we had to Irish biggies, the Clydesdales, the Phtlly cancel the festivities and use lhe performance Rovers, an Irish tenor from Jersey and, of monies to bad out lite luckless duo." While previous parade planners were course, the famous juggling act ol our Little Bucky All set. Ready to go. No! Fate again given the boot in 2002, the parade fared no reared its ugly head. 1\tms out. ... Gordo better than in previous years. "Danny Boy. I’m a’ idlin' y.t. alter many and his lovely Irish bride took the group to the East Coast to celebrate the upcoming years of failing to stage our St Patrick’s Day birth. Sadly, we had to cancel the parade. Parade for one reason or another, wc thought we finally had a solution. First, we dumped Again.” , .. The Irish km yer underwent a small name our previous leaders: after five years of dud> change when he appeared in the next installment of the tale in 1998. See PARADE, page 1.1 NOTICE TO BIDDERS BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION Rmled proposals will bo received at the office of the Barry County Road Commission 1725 West M-43 Highway. P.O. Box 158, Hastings, Ml 19358. until 10:30 A.M. Wednesday. April 15. 2020 for lhe following items Rnecifications and additional information may be obtained at the Road rnmmission Office at the above addresser at our web site al www.barrycr org. Crack Seal Blocks Culverts Scraper Blades Bituminous Mixtures Asphalt Paving The Board reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or to waive irregularities ■, .i,» host interest of the Commission. m lhe best rn 0OARD OF COUNTY ROAD COMMISSIONERS OF Tl IE COUNTY OF BARRY 138805 David D. Solmes Frank M. Fiala D. David Dykstra Chairman Member Member �Page 10 — Thursday. March 19. 2020 — Ths Hastings Danner decisions while family is an ocean away Teens facing Luke Froncheck Staff Writer When schools close, kids go home. Bul closures have led area exchange students to ask whether they should go back to their home countries. Yanik Jost, 17. and Daniel Recuenco, 16. are exchange students at Delton Kellogg High School, from Switzerland, and Spain, respec­ tively. Both have been in Michigan for nearly 8 months and have been experiencing American culture while attending high school. They ve made friends, watched football games and taken classes - everything exchange students normally do. Bul then COVID-19 hit. “I was joking about il. man,” Jost said. As recently as last week Tuesday, they said lhe novel coronavirus was ihe last thing on their minds. . Recuenco was beating his host brother in a video game, and Jost was joking with friends on the track team. “It was only China, and we thought it was only there,” Recuenco said. But reality hit, quickly. Another Delton first exchange student departed for Spain Sunday. The situation then became all too real for the teenagers, still trying lo hang on to their American experience. “I have no clue what's going on.” Jost said. “There is a big question mark in my head." Recuenco and Jost arc weighing the options between gelling the most out of their time here (a trip and experience for which their Swiss exchange student Yanik dost 035 been attending Delton Kellogg g School. parents paid thousands of dollars . andI fixing home, fearing air travel could be halt*. * The World Health Organization has labckd Europe as the current hotspot for CO\ ID-1L Even with that, the bos s would rather geltb.uk home than be stuck in the United Stales should further shutdowns and cancellations occur. . t “The virus itself is the least ol the concerns Daniel Receunco is an exchange from Spain attending De|ton Kellogg High School. (Photo provided) on my list, ’ Jost said. mean, if you kxik at it rationally, six thousand out of 330 million in the United States. | inc;uli come on. ”1 m more concerned about how it will impact my life, my parents, and my exchange year.” “My fear is that if | stay too long here, 1 won l be able to leave.” Recuenco said. “I want to be able to get home.” State provides guidaoe® to employers contemplating potential layoffs The Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity Wednesday provided guidance to Michigan employers on how to avoid potential layoffs related to COVID-19. “Wc know that many families and businesses are and will experience economic pain as a result of the COV1D-I9 pandemic," LEO Director Jeff Donofrio said in a press release. “Through Governor Whitmer's executive action and existing state programs, there are resources for employers affected by COVID-19. We arc also strongly urging job providers facing work shortages to place their employees on temporary leave, as opposed to termination, so that they may remain eligible for potential federal assistance.” Work Share - If employers arc financially distressed bul hope to continue operations by cutting back hours, lhey are encouraged to use thc Unemployment Insurance Agency’s Work Share program that allows employers to maintain employment levels and business operations during declines in regular business activity* rather than lay ing off workers. More information about the program can be found at michigan.gov/workshare. Temporary leave vs. termination - Due to ihe uncertainly regarding potential congressional action regarding whether and how furloughed workers will be able lo access federal paid sick, family and medical leave resources, employers are strongly urged lo place employees on temporary leave and advise them that the employ er expects to have work available within 120 days, as opposed to termination. There is no additional cost to employers, employees remain eligible for UI benefits through the state, and employees may remain eligible for potential federal assistance Steps for employers placing employers on temporary' unpaid leave: - Do not terminate the employee - specify a temporary indefinite leave with return to work expected that is within 120 days. - Do not create a contractual obligation to bring lhe employee back lo work. Let the employee know that the situation is fluid and subject lo change. - Provide the employee with a formal Unemployment Compensation Notice. Employers will need to provide their Employer Account Number and Federal Identification Number. -Communicate to the employee his or her rights. Under Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s recent executive order, workers who arc placed on leave, or arc unable to work because they arc sick, quarantined, immunocompromised or have an unanticipated family care responsibility, are eligible for unemploy ment insurance benefits. - Ensure employees are provided information on how to obtain unemployment insurance benefits Get each employee's up-to-date contact information. - Let employees know’, if applicable, that updated information will be posted on the entity’s website or intranet. -/Xppoint a single, or limited number of individuals, who ui|| field questions and communicate that information to employees. - Keep a tally of all questions and answers. Periodically share with employ ees. The stale is monitoring issues related to continued medical insurance coverage and will update accordingly Elimination of ccrtah unemploy ment costs to employers - Undttthc governor's order, an employer or enyfoyiftg unit must not be charged for unemployment benefits if their employees become unemployed because of an executive order requiring them to close or limit operations Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavinis and CDC.gov.'Coronavirus. Yankee Springs board splits on altowmg supervisor to contact siWmey Greg Chandler Staff Writer An effort to reverse a decision by the Yankee Springs Township board from last summer, which prevented the township super­ visor from contacting its attorney on matters affecting thc township, failed on a split vote Thursday. 'Hie board deadlocked al 2-2 on a resolu­ tion proposed by Trustee Shanon Vandenberg lo allow all township board members, the township zoning administrator and township assessor to contact or consult with township attorney Catherine Kaufman “as each deems necessary without prior authorization (of the board]" and to engage her to perform billable legal work on behalf of the township. Vandenberg and Supervisor Mark Englerth voted in favor of the resolution, w litle Trustee Larry Knowles and Treasurer Alice Jansma voted in opposition. Clerk Janice Lippert was absent for medical reasons. At its July 22, 2019. meeting, the Yankee Springs board voted 3-2, with Lippert joining Knowles and Jansma in the majority, to allow themselves lhe ability to contact Kaufman on township matters, but excluded Englerth and Vandenberg from being able to do the same without prior authorization of the board. Al the time. Knowles said he introduced the res­ olution over concerns about the township’s legal costs. “This is crazy, for a supers isor and a trustee to ask permission [of the board to contact Kaufman|.“ Vandenberg said. "What’s hap­ pened here is basically a stacked deck. If I Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Ml, fiin.l.i! dak', r-j!-. n.t anion. cr rtaiui. « r imcnti.n!. (•■ t’.Ar any »uch J ,-irr nMj.o " • • ; ■ ■ ’ . > uV Kj'-J'-I x-J jx< He rf iM-’jJy if,tviJiniu I* lb* *ifl mx k-i.n. p) zrrvrjX 4-1, I't »"• - <>"*■•* utmh ii «• 1 law Oi.r rtuJtij Mt bfirii) ir;f->ri»<e t'J". *!* .S-e‘l ri- «d»cn>»rJ »n <N‘ • ut u.».Uhie in H'.: hs*i» b. rrpvt ■■-•••'•■’ Wit i.} t It.-^ I •' MA 4M •:•»*.» J he HUD Kt '«ec number» r .Kn:ufrn?-^& lhe board also a led at 2-2 on the purchase of a .^1 u>lvnship Rte PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: Al! rrJ t‘Uic in ihlt flew-is** n wbjeel to ibe I ur H rr..t f A.’ 4-.1 the M .b Out Ibjrh AO •kich c •! tlUf.il U» •chert** "any prdtun.t. lirniWon or b.oeJ cn r»rc. have something pertinent that I want to talk to lhe tow nship attorney about, and let’s just say it was concerning other board members. 1 have to go ask the board member that I’m concerned about to give him a heads-up what 1 w am to talk to the tow nship attorney about? This makes no sense." Vandenberg went on to take a verbal shot at Knowles. "The reason that you did this* Larry, was for control.” he said. “It was control for lnoney, )eS’” Knowles responded. Knowles had |asl summer criticized Englerth for asking Kaufman revicw p0,icc reports tied to three sen irate criminal investi­ gations against Knowles none of ^hich led to charges against him. One of U’0sc »iveslteations focused on M.||c|her Knowles could egally se„c on (h<. kw Springs board h.le at the same tinie ,cn jng as dtrcctor of Area WatcrandSewtr Authority. A second issue Wa, .. . ,0 3 recall petition against Vandcnben. .u.j third focused tn llusiness Services Help Wanted BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley' Digging, (2b9)81S-7793. ‘ GENERAL L ABORER- JOB includes lifting and slacking lumber. Candidates must submit to and pass a prv-employment drug test. Starting wage $1*1.00 hour, Benefits, 401K and Vacation. Apply in person at 3% Main St, Sun­ field, MI 48890, MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 26^-804 75{>, BELLS CONSTRUCT IGN­ IS y ears experience. Dry wall, fMinting, tile, flooring, trim, ionic improvement1.. Dis­ count for Seniors Veteran -. 269-320-3890. GET EASY CASH with extra household goods and tools! Call (269) to sell your unwanted stuff with a classified ad in this paper. first motion, to ;l. ■eensma s ,Or 10... r 57.798 from *2 supported by Knowles ail(j . k , opposed by h"PL’rth and Vand anus,na • * bid was lhe Hurd lowest but tlK. i^fhi.b di<<n0' follow proper procedure. ,lo'verb' a E"8lurth. who priced out the [’•"•uhasc and in.MuS'vr .aerator before H e township aeVv,B"1'1",‘’l1' proposed pur ehusmg the ?u. PW bids() t7i al)d .V«urp. b^ d-^^'r’t wle' aud Jansma. b) 1 do know Uj । )Ot only the moq. ne3>|W„, !°Aesi bid 1 ., /. ol4­ .cm ‘. piece H»tpmem.in,dir’ il’.s tin’ * "lhjngwithI’’ ' p’wuunity J . . enemtor." Lnglcnh said. 1(1 instah b Even as they weigh lhe options, they know they would be going home to very different situations, For Jost, Switzerland’s status is like the United States. If returning, he would, for now. still be able to leave his home in a city with a population of about 4.(XX). Spain is a much different story. As .soon as Recuenco lands in his country, he would be immediately quarantined to his home for at least two weeks. He lives on the outskirts of Madrid, with a population of 6-5 million. Spain is on a national lockdown. If Recuenco were lo leave his home, he could be fined up to $3,000 for just walking on thc street. “My father wants me to slay here,” Recuenco said. “He thinks that Delton is small, and that I’m safer here. My mom’s afraid that I will get the virus here and won’t be able to come home.” Recuenco also has a problem with a kidney. His parents are currently consulting with doc­ tors in Spain to determine whether that puts him at higher risk for thc disease. "If it affects my kidney. I'm going home,” Recuenco said. During a phone interview, the 16-year-old was getting repeated text messages from his mother asking him to buy a mask and gloves before boarding any plane. “I’m just concerned about thc way home,” Recuenco said. “I could get the coronavirus without knowing it and go into my house and spread it to my family.” They, along with thc rest of thc world, are learning more and getting updates as lhey go about daily life. Jost said he knew of one other exchange student who had traveled back to Europe on a plane that had only seven people on it. “Of course, it’s kind of scary’, yah, but I’m more looking to the sluff I’m going to miss out on." Jost said. “Prom, spring sports, and graduation are all coming up. I want to expe­ rience that." T hroughout the year, the exchange students build friendships and relationships that usual­ ly culminate with traditional end-of-school year events. Missing out on those anticipated events, Jost said, “is like building a house, and right before you put lhe roof on an earthquake conies and destroys it all.” But even while confronting the possibility of missing out on the rest of their experience here, the teens also are facing a big question: “If wc stay to long, will wc be able to get home at all?” They are in an imaginable limbo, making potentially life-changing decisions as children in a foreign country. “Other than my family catching coronavi- But as lhe 'ints spre-. they also arc sibj|jty that a . infected. . , family ‘ about that." sald' . -I don t want to min* ••That's scary « me. gctting the However, a f“™,lydeaI.breaker for them. . coronavirus wasn ■ ««« fami|y n)em- ■ They said if a sibling > they would feel her were to become 1II'X",,, Jof C0V1D- ^^W^home as quickly as they could. . . thc vjjus nor Neither knows of anyone e will holds a substantial fear that . catch it. । w gOvem“I’m more concerned about n b ments are responding to ’ • , । “America is handling the situation good, I mean as good as every other country. But Recuenco disagreed. “I don’t think they’re taking the right pre­ cautions. It wasn’t that bad in Spain. o<. now look at it.” he said. “It s loo late, and everyone is quarantined in their homes. “People here are not taking this seriously. Everyone I talk to said this is just the Hu. and it’s not that dangerous. “They think it’s just the flu. But I’ve never seen a flu keep everyone in their houses in Spain.” The boys also said they are afraid that they will fly back home and, in a week, or two the virus will “calm down” and they will still end up missing the rest of their exchange year. “I don’t just want to fly out of the situa­ tion,” Jost said. “I don’t just want to leave ■ everything behind me in two days.” They’ve made it eight of the 10 months* they were scheduled lo be in America. "But thc last two months are the two y ou are supposed to enjoy lhe most,” Jost said. “If I knew- it would calm down in a month. I would stay.” “One hundred percent,” Recuenco respond­ ed; “but we don’t know that." Both boys are leaning toward going home within the next few days. "Not because I want to, bul because I have to,” Jost said. “It’s not anyone’s fault. We just have a life here and a life back home." Even in lhe face of everything that’s hap­ pened, both said they would do the whole thing over again in a heartbeat. Recuenco said he would repeat his stay here, “even if everything happened the same way. and everything was tom away at the last second.” county offices take steps to protect against COVID-19 spread ■; Barry County Chief Judge William Doherty announced thc adjournment of all court mat­ ters, with some exceptions, effective Wednesday, March 18. All business of lhe trial court, including thc Friend of the Court, will be strictly limited from March 18 to April 5, Doherty said Tuesday. County Administrator Michael Brown also announced Tuesday that any citizens who have business to conduct in county buildings should call ahead to schedule appointments. z\ll services that can be conducted alterna­ tively, by phone or online, or delayed, will be handled in that manner, he said. The main number to call is 269-945-1400, which offers a director)' of county and court services. The website at www.barrycounty, org provides information on department ser­ vices. Questions may be directed to Brown at 269-945-1284. ?\nyonc who enters a county building will be carefully screened lo protect others from being exposed to lhe novel coronavirus known as COVID-19. The "COVID-19 Operations Plan." as approved by the county commissioners Tuesday, allows the county and trial court operations to remain available, “however, buildings will be closed lo thc public begin­ ning Wednesday, March 18, through Sunday. April 5.” As far as court operations. Doherty speci­ fied lhe following exceptions to his adjourn­ ment order, including in-custody arraign­ ments. probable cause conferences and pre­ liminary examinations that are not waived and, lo the extent possible, all previously scheduled in-custody hearings, hearings involving in-custody juveniles; preliminary/ emergency hearings involving child protec­ tive pnxrcedings, waiver hearings for youths to be charged as adults, the initiation and violation of personal protection order(s), emergency mental health hearings, and emer­ gency motions on any matters including show cause and injunctive order requests. Doherty’s order said lhe lime period of thc postponements is excluded from speedy trial ' requirements. ' The court will process pleadings filed via ‘ email as long as the appropriate filing fees are provided, his order noted. All emergency motions and proposed ‘ orders should be emailed to the corresponding .*. court email address: Circuit Court/County - \ Clerk-infoCC4* barryco.org; District Court - ‘ infoDC®barryco,org; Family/Probate ** , Court-infoPC(«'barryco.org; and Friend of the A Court - FOC@barryco.org. Upon receipt of ihe documents, a court staff member will contact the parties to sched­ ule an emergency hearing, if necessary. Whenever possible, hearings, appoint- S ments. meetings will be conducted using ’ telephone. Zoom or Polycom technology so the party, parties, and/or counsel can appear F withoutphysically entering the courthouse or Courts and Law Building. Only lhe following individuals will be per- £ milted to enter court facilities: Parties and essential case participants: parents of in-cus­ tody juveniles; parties’ counsel; county staff, ' including facilities cleaning staff; and essen­ tial law enforcement. Problem-solving court program review ' hearings will be cancelled. In-person drug testing on participants in a problem-solving • court program may enter lhe court facility, but ■ only tour participants at u ljnie win it_ In-person payments will not be accepted. (wwwB'irX"” madsC by Ph°ne- °",inc (www.ll.itTycounty.org). MISDU (www tmsdu.com) or through the mail by cashier’s check or money order. * C.ise-by-case exceptions may be allowed in ■ he interest of justice and, at the discretion of oresdfUn' ' co™,,liUion counsel and/ or sdt-represented litigants. Consideration of civil, faniilv cnminal motions can st.ll be resold oral arguments or handled by telenhon videoconferencing. ' e’cpnone or Call anv time to place your Hastings Banner classified ad 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. March 19. 2020 — P -Oo •' PAMDE, continued from page g . not have.) MJvauon arrives ^•sMonal parade outfit froni j 3 ;.,tennf to stage a parade at a price 3tford (tree). Parade units included a e couldr {(i<h tmiks pulling a wagon of Pabst ?the Clvdodales again turned us down), the Irish CKxvncrs singing *My WUd pixieland-style (the irish R ulJP unavailable. and we couldn’t afford th • to My Wild Irish Rose’); Billy c ± g.h,S play his sax (the guy needs soinethinr ? (be Dublin Boys from Padl^ *"K • "AU set. ready to roll — not a Muff, bul looking forward to a g<£d dm" Then disaster struck again. TunXffe Master spreads his blarney a e il.l,c^ al a Puh nrul *s now on h out that the only thing axi learned in Ireland was how to love his uinness. Faced with this crisis. Carla throws op her hands and, bemoaning the day she ever joined this motley crew, resigns her commission. Needless to sav. it all fell apart. Again!” finally, in 2005, the story- took a turn for lhe better. Bv this lime, Jasperse had served on the city council for 30 years. Unbeknownst to him, fellow businessman and WBCH radio station owner Ken Radant had submitted a request to the city, seeking a permit to host a St. Patricks Day parade. Jasperse nearly fell litil off his « in /-’• - , / cover:i. in a a March > jri„n "liter 1,(11 ■ ■ tl, Pilllt '^tghhormg hudner.' Jasperse. the u Kratid Raylon whtn<1 anl ‘b n f„r „ Sr. ParricVs 0“' k liner,,h I." formerly menedtheSh:"’^ l-reepnri. nX?u»''kC"Ogrt',On,<,20>^ wc have been P^n f; annual South wc have Jefferson Sm*' f„r \ ' D->>' P^de. and, every >car ‘ mc disaster or another has prevented us from having a successful parade. After last year’s debacle, • •• wc had decided to not even attempt a parade this year. Feeling our pain. Ken O’Radant, thc resident impresario of WBCH Radio in Hastings and a great promoter of our community, decided to step into the breech and organize this year’s parade. Wc are encouraged in that he has actually set a time, 4 p.m. this Thursday, and a route down South Jefferson Street from State Street to Center Street, and even got approval from the City of Hastings. That’s further than we ever got before. You are all invited lo join us for •he parade, which is expected to include lhe McdBug, the Barry County Transit Trolley, n color guard, a mayor, a small firetruck, some parade company was a division of Enron and uent otto bankruptcy, taking all of our money with it. Sadly, we had to cancel the parade Mil" continued in ck’K,UrpT'\'!'S re'0"' s,a8c ,hc fam““s SJS St. I .Urick s Day pantile have, for one ttason or another, failed to produce any rewhs. Unless the truly Irish among you count thc day Studs McKenzie ran down the street dressed only in his Irish fedora and a pair of green polka-dot boxer shorts with the police in hot pursuit. Last year’s disaster (the parade company we hired went belly up and we had to cancel) forced us to search again for someone to put on our parade. Given^our unlucky history, no legitimate group would become involved with us — so we had to again ask Dynamic Irish Duo, AKA thc Dublin Boys, (the Bald Leprechaun and the Blarney Master) were going great guns, booking 76 trombones to lead the big parade, followed by a team of Irish mules pulling a wagon of Moosehead, the famous Paducah Irish Marching band, the Irish Drovers signing ’Danny Boy’ and anchored, as always, by Little Bucky. We were ready to roll, looking forward to a great day of celebration when alas and alack the Bald Leprechaun got a rash while trying to grow a beard for the St. Patrick’s Day beard-growing contest, and the Blarney Master lost his voice from spreading more blarney than usual. It all fell apart again.” The parade fared no better in 2004. “Lesser men (and women) ... would say, ‘I’ve had enough, the luck of lhe Irish does not work on South Jefferson Street.’ and quietly let the day pass, But, two of the previous organizers, who shall remain nameless, said. ’This a is the one black mark on our otherwise stellar careers and we need to erase it.’ Probably an exaggeration, but since no legitimate group will become involved, wc decided to give the Dublin Boys another chance. ITheyJ were eager to make up for their past failures. But, in giving the boys afnotherj chance, wc decided to bring in some reinforcements — namely Oscar O’Goa (he actually lived in Ireland for a while in his youth) and Carla O’Rizor (thinking maybe we needed a woman’s touch). They both agreed to join the team. Al first the idea seemed brilliant — things were coining together as never before.... Ready to roll ... looking forward to a great celebration. Then disaster strikes: The Bald Leprechaun, trying to grow a beard for thc St. Patrick’s Day beard-growing contest, spills some Rogaine on liis head and the results were not County offering recreational mini-grants Tlie Barry Count) Parks and Recreation Commission is now accepting grant applications from municipalities and school districts within Barry County for its 2020 Recreation Mini-Grant Program. Grants are made available to applicants for projects that enhance recreational opportunities within Bany County. With a growing demand for grant assistance, the Barry County Board of Commissioners Iras increased lite total grant lunds available front SlO.tXX) last year to $15,000 lor litis year. Past awards have funded a variety of projects, such as playground '-•quipmenl. sports field enhancement.drinking fountains, walking irails. accessible improvements and more. •T’liis program is a wonderful °PPortun‘*y have outdoor recreational asse s everyone throughout Barry County, Parks Commission Director Dan at ’’Creating connectivity and opportunities fils right in with our ‘ ‘ ’ . s Hatentent ” • • 1 he local parks and recreation i‘"Us to promote Bany County." an. ere. ;"W historical destination by ■’"PI”’"'1 *i j •'Wading recreation and <>?l*)rtunitie:> to enhance iheqnaht) < 'lil .. v Omni applications will be ae«l«5*' P* end ot the business day May I ■ ■' j.,|5 "'^nation ami grant applie-'"*"' V mailable to those who email tin !■ '•‘‘mmission. paiks<" barryeounty onl. ‘ Patton or Ron Welton. 269-W5-3775. Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised jud'eature act of 1961. 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that tha following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest b.dder for cash or cashier's check at the p’ace of hofeng the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 100 PM, on Apn! 9, 2020. Thc amount duo cn the mortgage may be greater cn the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at lhe sale does not automat.ca'iy entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for th s Informat’on: Kame-s) of the mortgagors!: Joseph J. Rodrigucz and Kimberly S. Rodriguez husband and wife Cngmal Mortgagee; Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems. Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lenders successors and/cr assigns Foreclosing Assgneo (if any): NcwRez LLC dba She"po:nt Mortgage Servicing Date of Mortgage: November 26,2012 Dote of Mortgage Record ng December 3.2012 Amount da med due on date of notice: $62,634 69 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated and in Wage _ of Nashville. Barry. County, . M.chigan, _ described as: Lof 69 of the Village of Nashville, according to the p'at thereof, as recorded in Uber 1 of Plats on Page 10 Common street address Of any): 223 N Queen St, NashviSe. Ml 49073-9323 The redemption period shall ba 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a: Of, if the subject neat property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 660.3240(16). if the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCI 600 3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at lhe mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property dunng the redemption period. Attention homeowner. If you are a nvi'tary service member on active duty, if >our period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago. or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at thc telephone number stated »n this notice. This notice is from a debt coilecto”. Date of notice: March 12.2020 Trott Law, P.C. 3144Q Northwestern Hwy. Sula 145 Farm r.gton Hilts, Ml 4833-* (248)642-2515 1412463 (03-12X04-02) 136605 Notice of Foroclo^ Advertisement Notice is g;veny.n1(lt'’;q6rPAno'i2J2 cf ,hG revised judicature act c? 196LrMe vA'?36, MCL G°0 32?2. tnat the following mojWT*1' be fcrec’osed by a sale of the mortgaged or som9 part of lhem at a pubi c auction sa ? to Qhest bidder for cash or cashiers check at the1 P_of ho’d.ng the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at f.qq pMt on March 19,2020. The amount duo on tn0 mortgage may bo greater cn the day ©• sa ng the highest bid at the safe docs not automavcaty entrtle the purchaser to free and clear ownersNp ot the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to ccnuct thc county register of deeds office or a t.tfe insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for tr,;s information: Namefs) of tho mortgagees): Randy Miller and Patti Miller, husband and wife Original Mortgagee: Household Finance Corporation 1,1 । Foreclosing Assignee (J any): U.S. Bank Trust, NA. as Trustee for LSF10 Master Part e pat,cn Trust Date cf Mortgage: August 12,2005 Date of Mortgage Record.ng: August 19,2005 Amount claimed due on d ate of notice. $119,693.46 Description of the mortgaged premises; Situated in City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and desenbed as: Lot 12, Biock 16 of Lincoln Park Addition, according to the p’at thereof, as recorded in Liber 1 of Plats, page 55, Barry County Records Common street address (if any): 705 W Clinton St. Hastings. Ml 49058-20-13 The redemption period shall be 6 montns from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 a; or. if the subject real property is used for agricu tural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property Is sold at foreclosure safe under Chapter 32 of the Revised Jud feature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600,327c the borrower will bo held respons’ble to the person v. hq buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure safe or io me mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner. If you are a military service member cn active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, cr if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for tne party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: February 20,2020 Trott Law. P.C 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Suite 145 Farm r.gton Hills. Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1410646 (02-20X03-12) Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961.1961 PA236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1.00 PM, on April 16, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, cither of which may charge a fee for this Information: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Michael R. Bernier and Sandra K. Bernier, husband and wife Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems. Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): The Bank of New York Mellon, F/K/A The Bank of Nev/ York as trustee for registered Holders of CWABS, Inc., Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2005-9 Date of Mortgage: June 30. 2005 Date of Mortgage Recording; July 14,2005 Amount claimed due on date of notice$141,597.72 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated In Township of Thornapple, Barry County. Michigan, and described as: Lot 5, Thornapple Bend Estate as recorded in Uber 6 of Plats, on Pago 35 Common street address (if any): 8714 Big Bend Ct. Middleville. Ml 49333-8228 Tire redemption period shall be 6 months from lhe date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or If the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961 pursuant to MCL 600.3270 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the properly during thc redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duly, if your penod of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney fot the party foreclosing the mortgage al the telephone number elated in this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice; March 19.2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) b42-2515 1413324 (03-19)(04^9) 139041 137666 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice Is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961. 1961 PA 236. MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a safe of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction safe to the h ohest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place cf holding the circuit court in Ba'ry County, staring promptly at too PM, cn April 16, «i020 Tho amount due on tho mortgage may bA creator on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the safe does no! automatically entitle the purchaser to fere and clear ownership cf the property, a potential purchaser is encouraged to contact tho county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, c;thcr Qf which charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagor^): Robert G Pa( Mme J. Pa'ge. husband and wife, as tenantsaby th0 entireties 7 Original Mortgagee: Gnffin Financial Mortgage LLC Foreclosing Assignee (if any); RevOfSG Mcrtg2g0 rundngLLC Date of Mortgage: Apnl 25,2006 Date of Mortgage Record ng: May 20Q6 Amount earned due on date of notice- g8 994 99 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Johnstown, Ba'ry Coy^ Michigan, and described as: Beg nn'ng at a Pcfet on the North -nd South 1/4 line of Section 13. ^wni North. Ranges West, distant North 00 degrees 01 m nines 22 s^-onds Fast 500.00 foot from the center of t^ s“ continuing North 00 degrees Ol minutes 22 Seconds East 343.00 feet; thenco North 86 00 minUles 34 seconds East. 1753 29 feet; thonCe 44 the centerline of Holden Road. thenCo Soulh 71 degrees 27 minutes 15 seconds West, along sa:d C0nt^Vn0 0< Holden Rood. 419.05 feet: theno, minutM West. 35.04 feet: Scuth e3 SgJJ £ nwuteswest. 1319.04ifeet ’’"'Placeolbe8inning. Common street otM-o-' ''' «ny): 4?S1 'Frun Rd Be'ievoe. Mt 49021.6208 , ' Hie redemption P='“* J* 6 months from the hate of wch sate. un'Wjv «mmcd ablndo„;!d ,n accordance with MCL o00.3--U o; (f tha . ■ . mM^18 U5ed03 b* MCL 600.3240(16). . If ths property is sofe al• safe under Chapter 3? of the Revised Judcatu e “ct or 1%i Durvu..f,. . MCL C00 3278 the boi’O^ pM bu hv‘d res^ons'bfe o tfe) person who buys tM P orectosure sa'e .X to the P’operty during the red*• on Attention homeowner- I > ar« u lo, damag.nt) - STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL CIRCUIT - FAMILY DIVISION BARRY COUNTY PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING FOR NAME CHANGE CASE NO.AND JUDGE 20-28464-NC WILLIAM M. DOHERTY P41960 In the matter ot Dyllan James Humble. TO ALL PERSONS, including: whose address is unknown and whose interest in the matter may ba barred or affected by the following: TAKE NOTICE: A heanng will bo held cn 04/29/2020 ©2:15 PM at 206 W. Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 before Judge Wil'iam M. Doherty to change the name of Dyllan James Humble to Dyllan James Boyer. 139052 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Trust In the Matter of Mary E. Harr Bettis Trust u/l/a dated August 2. 1993 Date of Birth: January 29.1926 TO ALL CREDITORS. NOTICE TO CREDITORS; The decedent. Mary E Harr Bettis, d»ed February 14. 2020. leaving the above Trust in full force and effect Creddors of the decedent or against the Trust are notified that an claims against the decedent or trust w.ll bo forever barred unless presented to William D. Betas. Trustee, within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date. March 17. 2020 Rhoades McKee PC Stephanie S. Fckkes (P43549) 150 W. Court Street. Ste. A Hastings. Ml 49058 (269)945-1921 William D. Bettis c/o Rhoades McKee PC 150 W. Court Street. Ste. A Hastings, Ml 49058 (269)945-1921 135146 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Not’ce is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the fcHo wing mortgage will be foreclosed by a sa!e of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a publfC auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of hold'ng the circuit court m Barry County, starting promptly at 1 00 PM. on April 23 2020 The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and dear o/vnersh p of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either cf which may charge a fee for this information' Name(s) of the mortgagor(s). Rita M. Bates, surviving spouse Original Mortgagee Financial Freedom Senior Funding Corporation. A Subsidiary of IndyMac Bank, FSB. , , Foredosing Assignee (if any) Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company. N A. as Trustee for Mortgage Assets Management Series I Trust Date of Mortgage July 25,2007 Date of Mortgage Recording August 6. 2007 Amount claimed due on date of not-ce: $92,816 71 Descnpbon of tho mortgaged premises Situated in Township of Irving, Barry County. Michigan, and desenbed as That part of tne Southeast V4 of Sedjon 31 Town 4 North. Range 9 West. Irving Township. Barry County. Michigan, described as. Commencing at the Soulh 1/4 corner of said secton, thence North 00 degrees and 00 minutes West 2303 95 feet along the West I ne of sad Southeast 1/4 to a po.nt wfech IS S M dcg.MS oo m'nutos Center of sad Section 31; lhenca North 89 degrees 54 minutes East 3S5 17 feet along the North line of Church Street to tho place of beg nn'ng of this descnpbon, M the North I ne of Church Street, thenco South M minute *«“ 132 0 (eel 10 p JC° °’ Cornyn street address (if an,) 6463 W front) Rd Hostings. Ml 4W58.97a^ monIhs from ,h? The fedempuo^ pc $ determ.ned abandoned in date of such sa. . u cf ,f Jhe su^ec, fe31 accordance wt itura| p-rposes as detmed by property is used for agocunu'*1 p e MCL 600 3240^s0,d al foreclosure safe under If the J Rev,$od Judicature Act of 1961, Chapter 32 ° ^o 3278 the borroAe' w.U be held pursuant tu MCL who buys the property at the responsible to th.. p ,ho p b3,def fo, rnortgage forc^uH> ue damaging p nf, u ycu are a military service Attention I’on’n""" > pe,c( ooi.vo duty has mnmbe'on "VO duv 2^ ag0 0,1( you hMt. concluded fess I DiniSd contact lhe attorney for Date of not ce March 5 -0 stated in this not ce i Ths notice is fnxn a Date of notice. Febh»ary Tioitlaw. PC. , 31440 Northwestern Fatinington H.l's, Ml (243)642-2515 , 1411366(02 27)(03-^' 3 WO Nortliweltern uSu't8 145 Farmington H/ls Ml 48ua4 " (248) 642-2515 1412218 (0365X03-26) ^5 138446 music and other assorted parade units still being signed in. If you want to participate, call Ken at thc radio station. Be on time, this is expected to lie a short parade (our first year) and you don’t want to miss out on the fun.” Ihe "Biggest Little St. Patrick's Das Parade" ha\ happily continued, despite a few years with rain nr snow, and eien after the death nf both Jasperse and Radant in thc ■ spring and fall, rcspet lively, aj 2016. Although the 2020 grand marshal Dave McIntyre land WBCH weather guy) didn"t get to ride in the parade, he seems tn have arranged some sunny weather far all to enjoy Tuesday, anyway. B’Gosh and begorrah! STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL CIRCUIT - FAMILY DIVISION COUNTY OF BARRY PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING FOR NAME CHANGE Case No. 20-28463-NC Judge William M. Doherty (P41960) In the matter cf Derrek Scott Humb’o TO ALL PERSONS, includ ng whose address is unknown and whose interest in the matter may ba barred or affected by the foflow’ng TAKE NOTICE A heanng will bu he'd on 04/29/2020 at 2:15 p m at 206 V/ Court Street. Su te 302. Hastings, Ml 49058 before Judge W.a.m M Doherty to change the name of’ Dorrak Scott Humble to Derrek Scott Boyer ., , STATE OF MICHIGAN 5th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT - FAMILY DIVISION BARRY COUNTY PUBLICATION OF HEARING CASE NO. 20-9373-NA PETITION NO. 20009849 TO. Hastings Banner IN THE MATTER OF Chloe Aicken (DOB: 07/29/2008) 7 A heanng regarding Termination ot Parental Rights will be conducted by the court on Tuesday. April 21. 2020 at 1 30 p m in 531 Circuit - Family Division, 206 W. Court Street Hastings, Ml before ‘ Hon Wiiliam Doherty You have the right to an attorney and lhe right to j a trial by judge or jury IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED tnat Jammerson . Jasper A>cken personally appear before the court at the time and p’ace stated above. This heanng may result in termination of your • parental rights 139145 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement . Notice is given under section 3212 of the rev.sed ' judicature act ot 1961,1961 PA 236. MCL 600.3212. " that the following mortgage will be fcredosed by ' a sale of tho mortgaged premises, or some cart ot . them, at a pub! c auction safe to the highest bidder tor cash or cashier's check at the place cf holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on April 9. 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater cn the da/ d sale. Plabng * the highest bid at tho safe does not automatically . entitle the purchaser to free and dear ownership ot the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to ’ contact the county register of deeds office or a title ‘ insurance company, either of which may charge a fee ' for this information: Namefs) of the mortgagors): Sallie Emert. an unmarried woman Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems. Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/cr assigns Forectosfeg Assignee (if any)- Flagstar Bank’ , ’ . Date of Mortgage: August 20.2018 । Date of Mortgage Recording; August 22. 2018 Amount claimed due on date of notice; $264,543.98 Description of the mortgaged premises S'tuat&d in Township of Barry, Bany' County. Michigan, and described ax Beginning at the 1/4 Comrr common to Sections 22 and 23. Town 1 North, Range 9 West, thence North CO degrees 10 minutes 32 seconds West, 1319.33 feet along the Section line- common to Sections 22 and 23. thence South 89 degrees 52 * minutes 14 seconds East. 274.67 feet along the North tine cf the Southwest 1/4 of the Northwest b'4 of sa d Section 23. thenco South 43 degrees 43 minutes 30 seconds East. 456.56 feet, thence South C6 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds West, 696.33 feet to tne true Point of Beginning, thence North 89 degrees 52 minutes 29 seconds West. 220.00 feet, tncnce South 06 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds West, • 200.00 feet, thence South 89 degrees 52 m mutes 29 seconds East, 220.00 feet, tnence North 06 degrees ■ 21 minutes 17 soconds East, 200.00 feet to trie Po nt . of Beginning. Together witn a private easement for Ingress, egress, and public utilities purposes, 99.00 feet in width described as. Beg nn.ng at a pe nt cn » tho East-West 1/4 Imo of Section 23. Town 1 North. • Rango 9 West, distant South 69 degrees 52 minutes , 29 seconds East. 255 97 feet front tha West V4 corner of said Section 23, thence Norin 05 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds East 99 59 feet, thence • South 69 degrees 52 minutes 29 seconds East. 454.00 feet, thenco South 00 degrees 07 minutes 31 seconds West. 99.00 feet, thence North 89 degrees 52 minutes 29 seconds West. 4b4 81 feet along said East-West 1/4 tme to the Po nt cf Beginning Also: Commencing at the West quartet post of Section 23, Town 1 North. Range 9 West, thence South 69 degrees 52 minutes 29 seconds East 475.97 feet along tho East and West Quarter lino of said Section 23; thence North 06 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds Fast 229.59 feet for the Place of Beg-nning; thenco continu ng North 06 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds East 1CO.OO feet; tnence North 89 degrees 52 minutes 29 seconds West 120.00 feet; thence Soulh 06 degrees 21 minutes 16 seconds West 100 0 fear, thence South 89 degrees 52 m.nutes 29 seconds East 120.0 feet to the Place of Beginning Common street address (if any): 2850 W Leinaar Rd. Delton. Ml 49046-9567 The redemption period shall bo 6 months from the 1 date of such safe, unless determined abandoned in j accordance with MCL 600.3241 u; or, if the subject real property is used (of agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). It the property is sold at foreclosure safe under , Chapter 32 of the Rw>.d Judicature Act of 1961, • pursuant to MCL 600 3278 the borrower w ;i be held respons’ble to tno person who buys tne properly nt the mortgage foreclosure sale o< lo the mortgage holder for damaging toe piopurty during the • redemption period. Attention homeowner If ycu are a military service ■ member on active duty, if your period of active duty ; has concluded less than 90 days ago. cr i1 >ou havo been cidered to active duty please contact tt»e attorney tor tho party foreclosing the mertgagj at th... . tefephonu number stated in this not cv This notice is horn i debt uMsctor. Date of notice March 12. 2020 Tiott Law. P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Sudo 145 Farmington H its. Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1412337 (G3-12K04-02) 138504 �1 Pape 12 — Thursday, March tft, 2020 — 7he Hastings Banner High school students compete in BPA Regional ••'lo be quite honest. I was quite frightened » Contributing Writer becoming a BPA advisor,” Carl said : I-ive Hastings High School business swNeither he nor or the other high school I denis recently pul their skills to the test a business teacher had experience with BPA I Region 1 Business Professionals ol_' nun'’‘ . when former teacher and advisor Iracey ^Leadership Conference at Davenport George left the district to lake another job. However, advising a career and technical stu­ ;L''niw"compcted in individual and dent organization is a requirement lor CFE resents ranging from administrau'v s, PP teachers'. With the 72 event choices lor BPA (learn to svebsbe fundamentals. members. Carl said he was overwhelmed with ‘placed top five in individual events,, a this added responsibility. •two in team events arc eligible to attend the *‘lt took a while to feel comfortable as the ‘ BPA State Leadership Conference. advisor and to feel like 1 was actually helping ; BPA is a youth organization that pro my students [since] some of these contests ! leadership and business opportunities for high were out of my areas ot expertise, he : school students to assist them. in mak .ngdcc. said. “For example, 1 teach finance and tech­ ■ sions on their future careers. Bo • nology, and 1 have had students compete in land technical education teacher at Hastings legal office procedures and medical oil ice I High School, said. procedures. I can’t say I was much help with . Hastings has taken part in BIA “">P'11 • tions for 26 years. Carl has been » H»^eacb- those students. But 1 have learned a lot over the years and have also succeeded in motivat­ ' er and BPA advisor for seven years. However. ing students, making them believe in them• this is his find year advising the chapter on his • Suvanah Knothole selves and dnving(h l0 success.” Seniors Juqin bickcrson. Abby Larabee and Will Rtxisieq m along with juniors Maggie Nedbalek Scott Fischer, compet­ ed in various eventsinc|udcd in The Workplace Assessment Pro^ -nijs BP/X program allows students lo (kmonstratc workplace skills through compclitive events. Open events the students (()m part in included Java programming, Fu^.’^ of Web Design, fundamental w()rd (|CCSSing. interview skills, and I C servicjn.. and troubleshooting. Uirabce and Ncdba|ek also competed in the im f, .’C Mudcnts - Dickerson, Larabee and Nedbalek - |la(J qiu!ifjed to compete in the State I-cadership Conference. However, COVID To™?* 10 Prevcnl lhC SprVad Of COVID-19, the S|aIe conference, which would have been this week, has been can­ celed. Hospitals announce new visitor restrictions Mercy Health. Metro Health-University of Michigan Health and Spectrum Health have revised their visitor policies to align with a new executive order from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Thc additional restrictions are intended to prevent thc spread of illness and protect patients, health care workers and communities. No visitors will be allowed at any local health care system location, including ...... . outpatient . hospitals, centers and long-term care facilities. For special circumstances, one approved visitor may be allowed in situations involving patients undergoing surgery and pediatric, maternity, end of life or critically ill paticnis More information about visitor restrictions at local hospitals can be found on their respective websites. Adviser Bob Carl (from left) is pictured with Hastings High School BPA members Will Roosien III, Maggie Nedbalek, Abby Larabee, Scott Fischer and Justin Dickerson. (Photo provided) SCHOOLS, continued from page 1 across lhe country in starting up food distribu­ tion initiatives that have already handed out thousands of meals to children, and are set to ; continue for weeks. ' “Our biggest concern right now at the start • of thc quarantine is that we’re taking care of ! our kids’basic needs "Hastings Superintendent ‘ Dan Remenap said Tuesday. ,' ‘‘You can’t believe how much food we I have, it’s totally incredible.” ’ While the schools are sorting out food dis• tribution. disseminating instruction is more • complicated. 1 Many students in Barry’ County don’t have I access to high speed internet with unlimited ‘ data. It prohibits lhe schools’ ability to teach ’ with data heavy tools such as video. ‘ Many schools are giving elementary stu»dents are given lake home packets lo work on. » "We’re hoping lhey slay menially active ” '. Remenap said. ,’ This shutdown happened extremely quickJy and w e’re trying to respond lhe best ihat wc can.” Delton Kellogg Superintendent Kyle Corlett said. “My messages to parents have been to remain calm and try to keep students on schedules so that they’re doing math, read­ ing. and playing every day, and to limit time in front of screens.” The district was closed Friday, but open lor parents on Saturday to pick up supplies. “Our elementary teachers handed out activ ities for students to take home and we’re mailing out those resources to students who couldn’t make it on Saturday." Corlett said. “Most of our teachers either have or will reach out to students electronically lo share resources. New instruction will not take place digitally as many students do not have reliable internet access ." Fleenor said lhe district vv ill rely on a num­ ber of online tools it already uses, such as Google classroom, and take home papers. He said a number of students already take virtual classes. District officials also are pointing parents to free websites with resources they can use to help their kids keep learning. “We feel pretty confident we’ll have oppor­ tunities for every student,” Fleenor said. Whether thc state of Michigan will forgive thc three weeks lost instructional time from the school closures, or require districts to extend the school year jmo (he summer is unknown. Remenap said th* state forgave the lost time from thc Large number of snow days last school year, so he expects a similar response this year. Maple Valley Schools Superintendent Katherine Bertolini said the district w ill use up its two remainingsnow days, and apply for an emergency waiver for an additional three. But. with the number of cases in the United States, and in Michigan, continuing to rise, administrators aren’t sure the emergency clo­ sure will otdy last three weeks. “I’m not optimisfc they're going to end with just a three-wedc shutdown." Bertolini said. "I think this is'ptobably going lo get extended longer.”' “I am reading sonic tea leaves that this could be a bit longer." Remenap 5aid. “I don’t see us going back until May.” Maple Valley Board of Education Trustee Craig Lackscbeide said during a special Board of Education meeting Monday. Board trustee Kristen Miller pointed out that education has a “snowball effect,” and closing school for an extended period will likely have a long-term impact on students. “1 worry about my kid being thrown into second grade and expected to perform at sec­ ond-grade level next year, when she missed a month, month and a half of first grade,” Miller said. The cancellation also raises question about standardized testing. The M-STEP was originally scheduled to take place soon after school resumed from the cancellation, bul educators are lobbying for it to be done away with this year. “We’re really hoping we don’t have to do standardized testing this year," Remenap said. He added that thc time spent on testing could be better used to make up lost instructional time. 'Die test carried particular weight this year since it was going to be lhe start of the thirdgrade reading law, which would hav e retained the students who had low scores in reading. “The results of lhe M-STEP test now are going to be very doubtful." Bertolini said. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer posted a tweet about the issue Tuesday. “Today, (the Michigan Department of Education) sent a letter to Betsy Devos urging her lo grant a nationwide waiver of state w ide student assessments. When kids gel back to school, the No. 1 priority must be ensuring they have the resources lhey need- not on state assessments.” Many schools plan to continue holding school board meetings, but are working on ways to stream those meetings so the public does not attend in person and the number of people in attendance is few. More information about the meetings scheduled is available on individual school district websites and Facebook pages. Lions no match for iPottervilte in one of state’s firasiB baiBgam®s ' Brett Bremer Lane Morris finished with 15 points, and plish all season. The Lions had two practices Sports Editor Maple Valley got seven points apiece from under their substitute head coach, Monday • There was no tomorrow for the Lions after sophomore guard Owen Bailey and senior and Tuesday, before the district match-up. . Wednesday. Turns out there was no tomorrow guard Jonathan Rosenberg. Senior Ben “I watched a lot of their games, but I didn’t • for lhe Vikings after Thursday cither. Benedict chipped jn two points in his final watch their games. There is a difference when » The Maple Valley varsity boys’ basketball game for the Lions. I say that, but I am completely impressed with ; team was bested 89-52 by Potterville in the Wilkes said he didn’t make many changes how they adapted with everything that was ! Division 3 District Semifinals at Pevvamo- from lhe lhe Lions had been trying to accom­ going on." • Westphalia High School Wednesday. । Potterville improved lo 17-5 overall wiih the victory' over lhe 3-18 Lions. The Vikings were slaled to take on the host Pirates in a ! district final ballgame last Friday night, but < that contest was suspended with lhe rest of lhe • high school sports in lhe state due to concerns ! related to COVID-19. ’ Lion varsity boys’ head coach Ryan Nevins ;. had already coached his last game of lhe sea­ t son heading into the district tournament and ' varsity girls’ coach Landon Wilkes took over ‘ on the sidelines for the team’s final ballgame ’ of the season. ■ Therc likely isn’t a coach who could have ♦successfully guided lhe Lions past the I Potterville boys Wednesday. Thc Vikings built 'a 28-10 lead in lhe opening quarter, had the ; advantage up lo 21 points at lhe half, and • stretched their lead to as many as 34 points •’ before emptying their bench in the third quar­ ter. ' Even the reserves shot the lights out, • Potterville hit 15 three-pointers in the game, • with Jakob Jenkins drilling five of them and • finishing with a game-high 23 points. '.Potterville got 17 points from Nate Ackley , and 14 from Adam Pickelman. Teammate • Cole Krause finished with 11 points. • “Coach Nevins had some commitments, and I stepped in,” coach Wilkes said. “I did . what I could do trying lo learn these boys in ' just a few days. Every single one of them, and there is 11 of them including two that came up from JV« embraced what was going on and they gave me their full attention. They did everything 1 asked them lo do. To me. that says a lol about their parents, their coach and who they arc as people. Wins and losses, and that stuff, kudos to Potterville. They shot lhe lights out. “A couple times wc did some tilings that I really like to see as a basketball coach. When Potterville went to that 1-3-1 we made some nice flashes and we got some nice looks. We didn't knock the shots down, but we got the good looks.” Maple Valley.s Curtis Walker (right) hgh|s ,0 Junior forward Curtis Walker had a teami?^Tfrom Potterville s Jakob Jenkins during their Division 3 D.strict d high 21 points for the Lions. Junior guard J 11. (Photo by Brett Bremer) at p%a(no WesiP^"a Ma(Ch " ' l*Wlllll Maple Valley guard Owen Bailey attacks ,htfo . semifinal ballgame against Potterville at pfo ms basket during his team ., (Photo by Brett Bremer) "e * ^“'Westphalia High ScS^h'n' �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 19. 2020 — Paco 13 Governor says golf lives Brett Bremer Sports Editor ' Those who choose may still trade the joy . and frustrations of the real world for the joy and frustrations that come with trying to hit a golf ball far and straight. Golfers and golf course operators received good news amid the list of restrictions placed • on state businesses by Michigan governor Gretchen Whitmer’s Executive Order. No 2020-9. * “Golf courses arc allowed to slay open for play. Indoor facilities like clubhouses or restaurants must close for on-premises con­ sumption, but may continue to offer food and beverage through walk-up service and other means expressly permitted by the Executive Order." read a frequently asked questions form distributed by the governor’s office Tuesday. “We were pretty happy,” said Sarah ’Buckmaster of Centennial Acres in Sunfield. “We were ready to follow her ruling whether . we w ere going to be closed or not. When John (Centennial general manager John Nagel) con­ tacted me that the golf courses could stay open, we were pretty happy.” Nines have been open at Centennial Acres and Yankee Springs Golf Course for nearly two weeks now thanks to favorable recent weather conditions, and golfers have been swinging at Saskatoon Golf Club in Alto and Broadmoor Country Club and Briarwood Golf Club in Caledonia as well. Both the front and back nines are open at The Legacy at Hastings, and Mullenhurst Golf Course in Delton is prepping lo open soon. Lake Doster Golf Club in Plainwell opened its back nine March 16 and has plans to open (he front nine “as soon ns it dries out." according to the club’s Facebook page. Il is a good idea to call ahead and set up tec times, as opportunites to golf could change due to weather, updates to thc state orders and other factors. Steps are being taken to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) which has shut down sporting events, along with nearly everything else, across the Earth. “We’re open for golf, as long as they will let us be open for golf" Yankee Springs general manager of operations Bruce Higgins said, “luist week Monday, wc were told wc had to close by 3:00 p.m. Monday for golf, then we got a letter from the governor that said just the clubhouses need to be closed down. Wc re doing a lot of things with the carts as far as sanitizing them as they go out. At Yankee Springs they’re asking golfers not to pull flags on the putting greens and to keep their distance from other golfers on thc course. There is a sanitizing system in place for carts and coolers that come back in. Food and beverage sales continue at Yankee Springs Golf Course, and the full menu from the Blue Wagyu restaurant is available for takc-out along with some new special family style meals each day. People may call 269­ 795-0030 to put in orders for curb-side pick­ up and the restaurant will now deliver food within 15 miles. Yankee Springs Golf Course is also running a youth special until the end of the month. One child may golf for free with a paying adult. The Thomapple Kellogg v.ar..|y team got a week o in al Yankee Springs txrfore the Jj’^^hool g0|f scason was halted by order the ™»chigan High School Athletic Association, ™Biggin* said he still sees TK high school goiters out on thc course here and there. “I think (Tuesday) we found more people coming out because they nccd wmcthi |o get out and do." Higg»ns “it Wasrft eVcn that warm yesterday. I think wc had a busier day for golf because njs something you’re not (quarantined against). No food is coming out of the Centennial Acres kitchens yet but there may be plans for that in the near future. Buckmaster said the best way for golfers ,0 r,nd o|), Centennial Acres greens fees and specials is by joining the course s Teu Golf Club bv tex­ ting Golf27 to 22452. vtut> By lexT? cal1 ahcaJ (5‘7­ . 66-8055) to check that the course will be o|K-n - especially on questionable weather days. Centennial Acres is taking precautions by limiting people in the golf shop. disinfecting carls after every’ usage, and promoting social distancing. No gatherings arc allowed in the clubhouse, lhe course also wants to promote playing golf as a stress relief from the pan­ demic. Indoor facilities arc also closed at The Legacy al I tastings, at least through March 31. Tee times arc available on a first come, first served basis. Call 269-945-2756 or email golffn legacyathaslings.com with any ques­ tions. It was officially announced Tuesday that golf courses across can remain open, at least for the time being. Many area courses have already had golfers taking swings for a couple weeks and others are set to open in the coming days, although most clubhouses are closed and bars and restaurants are open only for to-go orders. (File photo) Former DK administrator earns Forsythe Award Through tenures at four Michigan high schools, serving as a teacher, coach and administrator, and continuing today in various roles at the local and statewide levels. Lawton’s Michael Garvey has given nearly 40 years of service to educational athletics. To celebrate his devotion and many contri­ butions. Garvey has been named the 2020 recipient of the Michigan High School Athletic Association’s Charles E. Forsythe Award. The annual award is in its 43rd year and named after former MHSA/\ Executive Director Charles E. Forsythe, the Association’s first full-time and longest-serving chief exec­ utive. Forsythe Award recipients are selected each year by the MHSAA Representative Council, based on an individual’s outstanding contributions to the intcrscholastic athletics community. Garvey, who grew up mostly in Detroit, began his educational career in 1980 teaching al Marian Central Catholic in Woodstock, 111., before reluming to Michigan in 1985 to teach at Lawton High School. While nt Lawton, he helped lhe Blue Devils’ wrestling program continue a dominating run as an assistant coach on Low er Peninsula Class D champion­ ship teams in 1986 and 1987 and runner-up teams in 1988 and 1989, and then as head coach of the 1990 Class D title winner. He also served as athletic director at Law ton from 1994-99 before leaving for lhe same position al Delton Kellogg, where he served from 1999-2006. Garvey then was athletic director at Otsego from 2006-10. and he then served as athletic director at Kalamazoo Hackett Catholic Prep from 2010-18. He earned a number of accolades during his time as a coach and administrator, including lhe MHSAA’s Allen W. Bush Award in 2015 for his many contributions to educational ath­ letics that often went unsung despite their great importance. Garvey also has been a registered MHSAA official for 35 years, in softball for all 35 and for a mix of seasons in baseball, basketball, volleyball, wrestling and track & field. He continues to instruct as part of the MHSAA’s Coaches /Xdvnncement Program (CAP) and has served as tournament manager for the MHSAA Team Wrestling Finals since their 2018 move to Wings Event Center in Kalamazoo. “I never looked al my jobs as jobs. I alw ays looked at it as 1 hud a mission and was try ing to complete a mission,” Garvey said. “I think I can still help people, so maybe my mission isn’t complete. “Il’s a blast. 1 just feel like it’s a chance lo give. Schools and athletics and everything have given so much to me. Plus the human interaction - working with kids and coaches and officials, it just fits me and I enjoy it.” Among accolades at the state and national levels, Garvey received the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) 2016 Distinguished Service Award and the George lx>vich State Award of Merit in 2009 from thc Michigan Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (MIAAA). Garvey remains an active member of both lhe MI/\A/X and NIAAA and the Michigan Wrestling Coaches Association. He remains on lhe faculty for the NIAAA’s Leadership Training Institute and has served as Michigan’s coordinator for the program. He’s been a long-serving member of the MHSAA’s Wrestling Committee and hosted more than 75 tournament events while an athletic direc­ tor. He served as co-commissioner of the for­ mer Kalamazoo Valley Association and cur­ rently is the executive secretary of the Southwestern Michigan Athletic Conference. COVID-19, continued from page 1 He’s also rejoined the coaching ranks, tak­ ing over as head coach of Vicksburg High School’s girls and boys golf teams this school year. “Even in ‘retirement,’ Mike Garvey contin­ ues to serve students, coaches and administra­ tors with enthusiasm,’’ MHSAA Executive Director .Mark Uyl said. “He continues to pass on to our current coaches lhe best practices he’s learned over decades, and he has played a sizable role in making lhe Team Wrestling Finals a record-setting event for attendance the last few seasons. His brings a genuine enjoyment to these activities, and we’re fortu­ nate to have him continuing to lake leading roles.” Garvey began classes al Bloomfield Hills Brother Rice as a high school freshman, b.ut after less than a month moved overseas as the family followed his father’s job with Chrysler. Garvey matriculated in Geneva. Switzerland, and then completed high school at The American School in London, England. Once back in lhe United States, Garvey earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Western Michigan University He remains active in community service through his church and lake association. Mike Garvey, the Delton Kellogg High School athletic director from 1996-2006, has been named the 2020 recipient of the MHSAA’s Charles E. Forsythe Award for outstanding contributions to the interscholastic athletics community. Coronavirus in Michigan Michigan health officials are testing residents daily and announcing results. This map shows home residence of those who have tested positive for the virus; their cunent locations aren’t known. Total cases: 80 (As of March 18) 1 confirmed case Collette Scrimger (right), health officer for the Barry Eaton District Health Department, listens to Dr. J. Daniel Woodall, medical director for the Barry Eaton District Health Department. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) similarities to influenza. It also has a lot of differences I think (he key takeaways - and why people have a tendency to blow this virus of! — really comes down to the age stratifica­ tion. “You're looking at the risk to the popula­ tion. If you’re looking at young people, most of them ... are totally asymptomatic the whole lime lhey have thc virus when they re passing it to others. With people 60 or over, they get much more severe symptoms. So the mortality' is the key takeaway.” Mortality in that over 60 population can be as low as 4 percent or as high as 14 percent, depending on lhe population being sampled. Woodall said. “So if you think about the number of pen pie in our country who arc 60 and over and you’re looking at 4 to 14 percent of them having a risk of mortality, that number’s in the millions of people," he said. The mortality rale for COVID-19 is 1.9 percent in this country, Woodall noted. Globally, the mortality rate is 3.9. 7 hat s just the rate based on the number of people that have been tested," he added. “That doesn't include the people who had it and didn’t know." Woodall said that, if 1.9 percent of Americans over the age of 60 are al risk of dying from COVID-19. the risk of dying from the disease could be in the millions. "That’s why thc concern is so high ” he said, noting that lhe death toll from the com­ mon flu doesn t come close to that - and anyone who says that influenza is more dead­ ly than COVID-19 is interpreting the data incorrectly. . , ‘Ilc of what this virus could do. Woodall added. “Like you saw ■ Washington stale, when this virus gets in a nursing home, a lot of people are going to Health Department Health Officer Collette Scnmger told commissioners her department has been pretty overwhelmed with ihe work that comes as a result of the pandemic. We’ve been operating in emergency mode for quite some time now. M lhe department is performing what Scrimger called “contact (racing.” Anytime someone is referred for testing. they are quarantined, as are their family mem­ bers. Then the health department tries to determine who they might have exposed to COVID-19. . "We are actively reaching oul (o als to ensure that the appropriate precautions are being taken," Scrimger said. Commissioners asked questions about test­ ing. hospital capacity to handle a surge of patients, and cooperation from the public as far as self quarantine. Scrimger said one o her’ biggesl concerns is people going to work when lhcy are sjck and potentially expos’ g coworkers to the virus. "When people are npcriencj fcycr cough, shortness of b*ath: Stay home please.” 2 to 20 confirmed cases More than 20 confirmed cases No confirmed cases Source: Michigan Department of Health, Human Services Bridge “So if you think about the number of people in ourcountry who are 60 and over and yOu.re |00kjng at 4 to 14 percent of them having a risk ot mortality! that number’s in the millions of people. Dr. J. Daniel Woodall, Barry Eaton District Health Department medical director �> N — Thuisday. Marctr 19 202Q _ The HasJinfl9 Banner undreds of students attend Jiigh school climate symposium K High School Climate Change .-Symposium Michigan Radio-® Lester G,aham s"aT "? mental reporter. (Photo by Christian Yonkers) Christian Yonkers Contributing Writer A student-led symposium brought together professionals in thc climate space to share insights on how to positively engage climate change March 11 in Hastings. More than 500 students from throughout West Michigan filled the Hastings High School Performing Arts Center to learn about the issue. Students heard from topical experts include Michigan Radio’s Lest er Graham, WOOD TV 8 meteorologist Ellen Bacca, and GVSU pro­ fessor Dr. Elena Lioubimetscva. Keynote speaker Dr. Andrew Hoffman of thc University of Michigan kicked off festivities by address­ ing the entire assembly. “You are coming of age al a very different lime.” Hoffman said. “When 1 was your age, .^environmental pollution’ was pollution we smelled and saw. Now we’ve changed sys­ tems; We’ve grown to such numbers and our •technology to such power that we can do things like alter lhe global climate.” • Data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and spanning .back to the 1880s, show a steady rise in aver­ age temperature. In Barry County specifically, ,1'rom the mid-1970s onward, average tem­ peratures have moved steadily above the baseline, with 2019 average temperatures nearly 2 degrees Fahrenheit above historic norms. ” This 2-degrees Fahrenheit change took less Jihan four decades lo manifest, an unprece­ dented phenomena in recorded history, he ..... •said.. . *• Put in perspective,’iPTwsiness as usual" Jcontinurs, the world is likely to warm by 3 to 25 degrees Celsius (5.4-10.8 degrees *Fahrenheit). with disastrous human and eco­ logical consequences, according to the Project ^Drawdown collaborative on climate change. »’ On the flip side, dc-carbonization, despite Jits upfront cost, would save the world econo•my $74.36 trillion by 2050 and keep tempera­ tures within a relatively safe threshold. . But Hoffman told students this data means Nothing if it doesn’t reach the heart. i Thc cultural disconnect lies in the sundry of issues surrounding climate change. Hoffman and insights as an environ- challenged thc young audience to look at cli­ mate change as a cultural issue. When pre­ sented with undeniable evidence toward cli­ mate change, people rarely respond in propor­ tion. Instead, they respond based on their Hastings High Sch00l student organizers and teachers stand outside the Hastings ' orol'Xo^D^Elena symposium. Pictured are (front row. from left) Maggie Nedbalek, Natalie Taylor Rae Herron, GVSU Professor Dr. Elena Lioubimtseva. Aldan Makled. Sophia Groendal. Daisy Kerby, Katie Pattok; (back) HHS teacher Jamie Dixon, Rock the Vo.e CEO and HHS alumnus Carolyn DeWitt, HHS teacher Marty Buehler, Audrey Byykkonen, Karsyn Daniels, Anna Scheck, Elli McFarlan. worldviews. “Data never speaks," he said. “Wc are ask­ ing people to change their view of the world if they accept climate change is real... that is a huge cultural question that challenges peo­ Josh Brown, Dane Barnes and Torben Fabig. (Photo by Christian Yonkers) ples’ beliefs.” To make people change with data is inef­ fective: Perceptions of the self and world need to be engaged. "Il takes lime between what science says and when people accept it," Hoffman said. For decades, scientists warned the public of the dangers of smoking, and for decades the public sidelined lhe warnings. Tobacco com­ panies invested millions in ads touting the “health benefits” of smoking, with slogans in thc 1950s and 1960s exclaiming “more doc­ tors smoke Camels than any other cigarettes ... your dentists recommends you smoke Viceroys." The tides eventually turned, and it became a collective truth that cigarettes cause a suite of health issues. The nation responded, and people started reshaping their cultural world­ views. So why isn’t climate change a collective truth, considering it holds a landslide of scien­ tific consensus? Because most people don’t talk about it. he said. "It’s joined sex, politics, and religion as things,we don’t bring up in polite company,” Hoffman said. “It’s so provocative and pro­ duces so much emotion that we avoid it.” People accept reality as true if it comple­ ments their worldview, and reject it if it con­ tends. “Climate change” a loaded term, Hoffman said. It’s more than unbiased numbers and trends: Attached to it is lhe threat of govern­ ment overreach, a destruction of cherished ways of life, and challenges to social and religious values. Because so much of the American way of life stands in stark contrast lo what mitigating or reversing climate change demands, the topic is avoided and even chal- O' Co » y- WOOD TV 8 meteorologist Ellen Bacca guides students through making sense of climate data and trends. (Photo by Christian Yonkers) University of Michigan professor of environment and sustainability Dr. Andrew Hoffman helps students navigate the complicated political,-social, and environ­ mental realities of climete change. (Photo by Christian YonK^rSf • “We try to find information to confirm what our emotions told us in the first place. We are acting like lawyers, trying to come to a conclusion that’s preordained. We need to short circuit that and start more carefully and more rationally about issues like climate change.” Dr. Andrew Hoffman, University of Michigan longed, despite overwhelming evidence of the necessity to address it. “We embrace things if they confirm our worldview, and we reject things if they chal­ lenge it," Hoffman said. “It takes time to overcome that.” Worldviews, or “cognitive filters.” are lhe result of culture. Many facets of U.S. culture are wholly vested in a system that counteracts climate science, a system that depends on greater consumption and undeterred status quo. "We try to find information to confirm what our emotions told us in the first place.” Hoffman said. “Wc are acting like lawyers, trying to come to a conclusion that’s preor­ dained. We need to short circuit that and start more carefully inore rationally about issues like climate change.” Thc proof is not in the pudding, though. Hoffman argued thal throwing in more data isn’t going to change anyone’s minds or kick­ start productive dialogue “[It] misses the of what they’re hear­ ing," he said. “You need to capture what is the nuance of the conversation, and what are they hearing when they jicar the term ’climate change.’” J The solution isn’t more science; it’s over­ coming the mistmsl of science. Skeptics dis­ regard the message because of the messenger. rcg"rdless of ainL. data. , In Hoffman’s* Hence, many people deny climate chance not because lhey disbe­ lieve lhe facts, but tcause ’he> fear gOV<T mem overreach. (Wiling mal motives for ^"■al.arv a firs, step ... lhe bansmon from v|j ‘, change demal to eollective truth. ■rhe collective understanding that some­ thing is up wi|) .jimate is already well understood. Farmers aerm hi can »nd the world have told HoffaL Imething grange is “P ',M-re^"' , 's^ts. and droughts in places and ’they’ve never seen »>efore.Mo^atmn^ aro happening Hastings High School science teacher Marty Buehler debriefs with GVSU professor Dr. Elena Lioubimtseva after the symposium. (Photo by Christian Yonkers) Several hundred West Michigan high school students attend a keynote session by University of Michigan professor Dr. Andrew Hoffman. (Photo by Christian Yonkers) lx.,IU|ar inter Throw ih . ?o|4 to 2019 were the five Wann? 4CI h .fvc vears on record, and it Kels l S'consc<l»u ‘ something is changing lo deny “These are real events,’' he said. “It’s hap­ pening now. it’s happening to people we know, it’s happening here.” Boots-on-lhe-ground accounts of strange climatic events may hold the key in shifting perspectives on a changing climate. People will listen to others with similar interests, Hoffman said, and all interest groups - from farmers to chemists - are hearing rumors that something is awry with the climate. Yet those who call climate change what it is - left-leaning environmentalists and politi­ cians - are mistrusted by a large segment of thc population, Hoffman said. If climate change is to be addressed bilaterally, it’s mes­ sage must be championed by trusted figure­ heads of traditionally skeptical groups. “Wc need to be hearing [about climate change] from business people, from conserva­ tives,” Hoffman said. “I want evangelicals to hear it from evangelicals. I want it to be heard from niral farmers, here at the Kiwanis Club, from people on the street. 1 want them to hear it from people that lhey trust.” These “climate brokers” can bridge the gap between evidence and action, indifference and conviction. Furthermore, they will be pivotal in effectively combating climate change while safeguarding the well-being and interests of various stakeholders. Students attended breakout sessions after Hoffman’s keynote address. WOOD TV meteorologist Ellen Bacca helped students make sense of climate trends and data; Dr. Julie Doll of the Kellogg Biological Station helped students understand lhe connection between ecology and agriculture: former Grand Rapids mayor George Hartwell made lhe case for bridging left and right politics in engaging climate change; Michigan Radio’s Lester Graham discussed thr importance of clear and accurate environmental reporting; Western Michigan University professor Dr. David Karowe explored lhe effects of increas­ ing carbon dioxide on crops and ecosystems: Ph.D. student Lindsey Kemmerling provided an overview of biodiversity in agricultural ecosystems and how to manage them in a changing climate; WMU professor Dr. Denise Keele shared insights into environmental pol­ icy and law; Grand Valley Stale University professor Dr. Elena Lioubimtseva shared her insights of her long career studying thc impacts of climate change and fluctuations in the carbon cycle; NcwschanneL 3 meteorolo­ gist Keith Thompson provided a crash course in climate science. Libby Ungcy teaches advanced biology and forensic science at Grandville High School and chaperoned her class at last week’s event. She wanted to lake her class’ discussion on climate change outside thc halls of academia. She said she found the symposium's engaging discussion particularly important for her stu­ dents. Most of her students are entering sci­ ence-related fields.They’re equipped with the knowledge of climate change, bul feel power­ less to change it. “I was looking for ways to help my kids not just know the science behind [climate change], but also improve their activism,” Ungcy said. Susan Peterson teaches journalism and English at Grandville High School. Her stu­ dents were particularity interested in Graham’s discussion about reporting on environmental topics and the need for clear information delivery lo consumers. “It will help my students to spread the word, lo gel good communication out there." she said. “Since I’m not a science teacher, I’m very interested in how we can get lhe word out.” Her students are up to the challenge of cli­ mate change. After all. it’s their world that’s predicted to shift drastically if nothing is done now. Sweeping new technologies and life­ styles are imminent with the reality of climate change. But the imminence of change doesn’t necessitate nightmares tinged with dystopia or post-apocalyplic scenarios. “In Dr. [Martin Luther, Jr.] King’s speech, he did not say ’I have a nightmare,’ bul ‘I have a dream,”’ Hoffman said. “A dream motivates you. A nightmare scares you away." Symposium speakers shared visions of a better world when society works together lo engage climate change. Clean air, healthy and resilient food systems, preserved natural spac­ es to recreate and hunt in. beautiful and walk­ able cities. Tackling climate change is replete with “no regrets” solutions which, Hoffman argued, would be preferable whether or not climate change is real. That, alone, he said, should be enough to compel societies lowatd a more sustainable future. "This isn’t a contest of domination and winning; It’s about two-way communication trying to come to an understanding about a very complex issue we are facing as a soci­ ety, Hoffman said. "Move beyond the nega­ tive. Can you imagine a world that’s actually Ix'ller if we deal with climate change? I can ” ITic symposium was organized by Hastings High School students with assistance from science teacher Marty Buehler. The Battle Creek Math and Science Center has agreed to host the High School Climate Change Symposium in 2021. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March !9, 2020 — Page 15 ‘Mermaid’ makes a bright memory for Hastings High School n^>l of rile high school musical, Disnev's •The Little Mermaid." IK> s Butit was closing night, too, since steps to stop the spread of COVID-19 discoursed ■large assemblies. The show was the nfost technologically advanced musical in the school s history with vivid scenery and more than 20 professionally made and'painted set pieces. The full cast performs during the Hastings High School production of “The Little Mermaid’ Thursday during its opening - and closing - night. (Photos by Rebecca Pierce) Prince Eric (Connor Lindsey) tries to learn more about Ariel (Nicole Strouse). Sebastian (Ale* Steward) Irete’dbolit Andl’ahd’her desire to leave her home. Ariel (Nicole Strouse) discovers Prince Erjc (Connor Lindsey) and sings about becoming part of his world while her seagull mend, Scuttle (Amy Forsberg), looks on. i Ursula (Hannah Slaughter, center) with her attendants, Jetsam (Grace Green left) and Aotsam (Anna Scheck) plots her revenge on King Triton. Vikings reach district finals before state suspends sports In a typical year, only four varsity boys* basketball teams in lhe state of Michigan can say they closed out ihe year with a victory. 2020 is not a typical year. The Lakewood varsity boys’ basketball team defeated Charlotte 52-41 in thc Division 2 District Semifinals at Olivet High School Wednesday (March 11), setting up a show­ down between the 10-12 Vikings and the 18-3 Eaton Rapids Greyhounds in the district final. The Lakewood athletic department was informed 71iun>day afternoon dial all MHSAA events have suspended effective immediately. Thc boys’ basketball district final game Friday night against Eaton Rapids al Olivet was can­ celed. All postseason events sponsored by lhe Michigan High School Athletic Association have been suspended immediately and indefi- nitely due to concerns related to COVID-19 and on Friday the MHSAA announced that all school sports should .shut down at least until reopen” 5 schook ,nay Possibly Ukcwood fell in a 13-7 hole against the J*?,es'n but pulled into the lead with a 16-9 second quarter run and then surged m the second half. 1 n Jacob Elenbaas poured in ^5 nmnfc • \hJlharlhIIC Orj°le’ and Br,anI MoW4 fin­ ished with ten for the Vikings. They did „ Miongjob ot getting to the foul line and Con 6-°f-7 - and Brady Gawne chipped in eight noinw r. the Vikings. knocking down a pairohhrees £ the thud quarter and Brent Sweet contributed seven points, W,UUM*1 Ariel (Nicole Strouse) makes , dea| _ (q 0( hw seagull friend. Scuttle (Amy Forsberg). �Pago 16 — Thursday, March 19, 2020 — The Hasting* Banner Barry-Roubaix moves from spring to autumn ua„were rolling aroundLh-h^rfdie “With 4fl00 raecn. h Bikers the turns of the packet pick up, the start chute, after-party... it Yankee Springs Mountain Bike Trail between would be irresponsible for us to aid in tire Deep Lake and McDonald I-ake Sunday and possible distribution of the virus to our racers, up and down Barry County roads even as the event partners, residents and the 400 volun­ Founders Brewing Co. Barry Roubaix Killer teers (many of whom are seniors).” Gravel Road Race organizers were updating Thc decision to move to the October date came with input from the City of Hastings, their plans. Dust in rhe face and thc pain in the calves key race stakeholders and other race promot­ are not the reasons lhe annual race planned for April 198,2020 has been postponed until Oct. ers.MWe arc sorry, but please understand wc 10. The reason is what happens when the have limited options based on many factor; and went with thc best date possible," the wheels aren't turning. “After consulting with local and state health Pavement Ends Inc. organizing team wrote to officials and thoroughly evaluating what we hopeful participants Sunday. “Over thc next know’ today regarding thc COVID-19 situa­ few weeks, we’ll be finalizing and communi­ tion and spread, wc have made thc decision to cating a comprehensive plan with options for officially postpone thc race currently sched­ keeping your registration or selling I transfer­ uled for April 18,2020,”organizers announced ring your registration in a fair and equitable Sunday. l;x,st,ngn»ce registrations will transfer t the niCc date. The new deadline to edit. 9 arT Ca,egory or transfer entry is Sept, nr wi.k?’ Rc?iMered riders may edil/transfer onlin H lheir cnIricS f°r *hC nCW dalc n * h()sc with questions regarding that 956 QS/Slncan B»kcrc*tech supporl :H ,888‘ gmailX°r CmaiI wwwbarryroobaix1^ ■ kJ??Ug WaiB»st registrations and thc place ‘ .C/°r too* on thc waitlist will remain the h«?L7 ’e nc* toile. The $10 transfer fee „„ .™nfWtUVed. so if and when current racto the r. J of the event openings will go r‘l in line in their same race registration^^'* Wi" W °"ly MHSAA directs schools to halt all activities The Michigan High School Athletic Association has directed all member schools to suspend activities in all sports for all sea­ sons - effective Monday, March 16 through at least Sunday, April 5 - to fall in line with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s order that all schools close for the next three weeks in order to deter the spread of COVID-19. All athletic activities to be halted include practices, scrimmages and competitions/ games, as well as strength training, condition­ ing and any other organized sessions and activities in all MHSAA in-season and out-of­ season sports. The suspension of activities applies to sports for all three MHSAA seasons as Spring sports practices have begun. Winter tourna­ ments were suspended Thursday and Fall sports coaches are working with limited num­ bers of athletes during the offseason. “By suspending all sports activities for the next three weeks, wc arc taking an additional step to maintain safety and minimize risk first, and also keep a level playing field for our schools and teams during this time of uncertainty,” MHSAA Executive Director Mark Uyl said. "A number of schools across the state already were making this decision, and setting this as the standard across our membership is appropriate especially given the quick pace with which this situation is continuing to cv0|vc. Given the rapid, fast-moving and unprecedented events of this week, thc MHSAA will use the lime during this all-sport suspension of activities to evalu­ ate all options and next steps which will be shared with schools in a timely manner.” Sport sporting teams were slated to begin their first contests of the season in the week ahead, and the MRSA A will not crown state champions in boys' basketball, girls’ basket­ ball, boys’ swimming and diving in the lower peninsula, hockey or gymnastics - winter sports that were finishing up before the end of the month. In an effort to limit crowds like this from the start of the 2017 Founders Brewing Barry-Roubaix Killer Gravel Road Race the 2020 edition of the race has been postponed until Oct. 10. (File photo) Spectrum Pennock alters radiology, rehab and lab services Spectrum Health Pennock Wednesday announced it is limiting outpatient rehab services at its Hastings and Gun Lake locations. Pennock also is cancelling all non­ essential diagnostic exams, while most labs remain open at this time. Outpatient rehab Rehabilitation services will be significantly scaled back, and staff members are calling patients to postpone or reschedule appointments. These changes arc effective through March 29. and will be evaluated weekly. Gun Lake Rehab will be closed during this time, moving essential visits to Hastings. Individuals with questions may call 269­ 948-3350. Laboratories Most Spectrum Health Pennock labs remain open to the public at this time. • The hospital Inb maintains hours of Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 pan. and Saturdays. 7:30 a.m. to noon. • The State Street Center Lab is open Monday through Friday. 7 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. • Lab services at Pennock Family Medicine-Lake Odessa remain open Monday through Friday. 7:30 ajn.-noon. and 1 p.m.-4 p.m. • Lab services at the Integrated Care Campus-Ionia remain open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 330 p.m. • The draw fob at Pennock Family Medicine-Gun Lake is closed. More information can be provided by calling 269-945-3451. Oia^noMic services Spectrum Health Pennock is cancelling all non-urgent outpatient diagnostic exams, including screening mammograms, MRIs. CT scans and other services. These changes are effective through Tbesday, March 31. Walk in X-ray patients are asked to visit State Street Center or the Ionia campus, instead of going to thc hospital. Additional information is available bv calling 269-948-3108. Other affected services and sites Changes to other Pennock sites include: • Pennock Radiology at Gun Lake and Lake Odessa are closed until March 31. • Pennock Radiology at the Ionia campus will remain open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Ultrasound will close. • Pennock radiology al lhe State Street Center will see patients for X-rays only Monday through Friday, 7 a.m.-8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Diagnostic mammograms. breast Call our COVID-19 hotline at 616391.2380 or v so If : ;.: n; : ealth.org/covid19 to conduct a free s. ; symptoms are life-threatening? ca- ultrasounds and breast biopsies, as well as procedures ordered as urgent, will continue to be performed at the hospital. Hours will vary for different services. Patients with scheduled non-urgent appointments, procedures or surgeries during this time will be contacted by their providers regarding next steps. Additional questions should be directed to respective physician’s office. Individuals are asked to call their providers if they are experiencing symptoms, or the Spectrum Health COVID-19 hotline. 616­ 391-2380 to schedule a free phone screening. If symptoms are life-threatening, call 911. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-03-26.pdf a90b7963986662492a62619d51f84a8d PDF Text Text Epic times define epic people See Editorial On pa^e 4 All-Barry basketball teams announced See Story on Page 11 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 804879110187 ANNER Thursday^Majch 26^2020 PRICE 750 VOLUME; Hospital adds triage tent for C0VID-19 Rep. Calley hosting j coronavirus update today Slate Rep. Julie Calley (R-Portland) ? will host a live tele-town hall update i today, March 26. al 3 p.m. focusing on the S coronavirus pandemic in Michigan and vt hat steps are being taken to combat the k virus. Joining her on the call will be Anne t Klein Barna, planning, promotion, and • evaluations manager of the Barry-Eaton j District Health Department, and Ken Bowen, the health officer/director of envi­ ronmental health of the Ionia County Health Department. “My duty is to keep you informed, and the challenge we’re facing doesn’t change that.” Calley said. “I appreciate our local health departments partnering with me on this tele-town hall to get reliable informa­ tion out to the public. I encourage every­ one to join the call and ask questions sou may have regarding coronavirus.” Those wishing to join the tele-town hall may call toll-free 855-758-7520 and enter 57629if when prompted. —1 More information is available by call- jt ing Culley’s office. 517-373-0842. or j ; emailing JulieCalleyG’ house.tni.gov. State plans virtual high-water summit tonight A high-water town hall webinar tonight, March 26, will allow residents to tune in to a discussion on rising lake levels. The webinar is the first community outreach event organized by the ad hoc Michigan High Water Action Team, which was formed during Michigan High Water Coordinating Summit in February. The online conference will feature staff from (he Michigan departments of Environment. Great Lakes and Energy; Transportation; Natural Resources; Agriculture and Rural Development; and Insurance and Financial Services, as well as a representative from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, lliey will cover water-level basics and current forecasts, statewide high-water impacts and resourc­ es for residents. Local officials, community leaders and the general public also will learn about the ongoing government response. Time will be allowed for audience questions. The webinar will begin at 6 p.m. Preregisiration is required al Michigan.gov/ egle (search for ‘high water summit.’) The virtual town hall is the first in a series of high-water town halls planned for the coming months, one of the out­ comes of the high-water summit. The summit brought together state, federal and local officials, as well as representatives from tribal governments and groups that represent local units of government. Dales for future town halls will be announced later. • More infonnation on high water levels and resources, such as fact sheets, FAQ'-, a Jink to the Mi Walers permit portal, safe ty infonnation. and resources for permit holders, can be found at Michigan.gov/ High Water. St. Rose cancels masses, activities St Rose of Lima Church has canceled al) masses and activities until further notice 7 he chureh will I* open for people to spend quiet Cirne in prayer Saluniay aiftl Sunday during normal Mb** times and from 8 run. to 2 pro weekdays. More information can be found on the website lmp://sirosehastings.com. or at DhcoverMass.com, or the parish app. See NEWS BRIEFS, page 3 v J j « | ' On Wednesday afternoon, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases was 2,295 in Michigan, with 43 deaths statewide attributed to the coronavirus. Yet those numbers are partly a function of test results being released, health officials noted, not the actual number of cases they expect to see in the days and weeks ahead. At this point. Barry County has one confinned case - a 45-year-old man with no his­ tory of travel. Even so, Spectrum Health Pennock Hospital in Hastings is taking steps to prepare for the eventuality of more cases. On Tuesday, a screening tent was erected outside the Medical Arts Building. Iliis is part of the hospital’s emergency preparedness plan to allow for a designated place to screen patients who suspect they may have COVID-19. Currently, the tent is not in use. ’The screening lent is designed as an exten­ sion of Pennock’s emergency department and it will only be utilized if patient volumes become too great for the existing emergency staff to handle within Pennock Hospital,” Steve Marzolf, Spectrum Health Pennock chief nursing officer, said. Due to the limited number of tests available across the nation, patients exhibiting symp­ toms will be screened first. Then they will cither be referred to the emergency department or sent home with Spectrum Health Pennock placed a new screening tent outside the hospital’s Medical Arts Building in Hastings. The tent, which is not yet in use, will become an extension of the emergency department, if needed, to handle patients with coronavirus COVID-19 symptoms. (Photo provided) instructions to care for their symptoms, as well as instructions to self-quarantine. Tests will only be administered to emergen­ Public meetings move entire® Taylor Owens Staff Writer local governments and school districts have suspended in-person public meetings, after Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued an executive order allowing meetings to be conducted online or over the phone. The order allows the meetings as long as boards give the public notice on how they can observe the meetings, and offer spoken public comment. The Hastings City Council and Hastings Area School System’s Board of Education both had their first online meetings Monday. Many governing bodies, including the vil­ lages of Nashville and Middleville, and the Hastings and Delton Kellogg school boards, arc using the videoconference software Zoom. “I think a lot of municipalities big and small are using Zoom," Nashville Village President Mike Kenyon said. “They’ve done a great job and have been proactive about reaching out to educators," Remenap said, adding that many educators are already familiar with the software. Middleville Village Manager Duane Weeks See MEETINGS, page 3 Bradford White continues operations | ! ’ cy department patients and those who meet the criteria for testing and w ho exhibit severe respiratory conditions. Spectrum Health has posted downloadable materials, videos and other information on its website at ww w.spectrumhealth.org/covidl9. “We want to help ease fears and provide our community with the information people need to prevent this illness from spreading," Dr. Darryl Elmouchi, chief medical officer for Spectrum Health System and president of Spectrum Health Medical Group, said. Materials include infonnation on COVID19 symptoms, prevention tips from state and federal agencies, a hand-washing video, arti­ cles featuring Spectrum Health infectious disease experts and links to action plans and other important information from the CDC. “Everywhere you turn, someone is talking about COVID-19 so we understand that peo­ ple are experiencing infonnation overload." Elmouchi said. “We hope these materials from Spectrum Health and other reputable sources will equip our communities with accurate information that will both ease anxi­ ety and help prevent the spread of the dis­ ease." In accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Spectrum Health is recommending that those with mild COVID19 symptoms slay home and self-quarantine. People who are unsure about what to do should call the COVID-19 screening hotline at 616-391-2380. Anyone with severe or life-threatening symptoms should call 911. At Bradford While Corp, in Middleville. Barry County’s largest employer, company officials say they are continuing to produce water healers and space heaters, which com­ pany executive vice president and general manager Mark Taylor considers part of the “critical infrastructure” needed to fight the virus. “Part of the critical infrastructure is the continued production of water and space heat­ ing equipment that is essential to accessible hot water for sanitizing and hy gienic purpos­ es, which is a vital resource for helping com­ bat the further spread of COVID-19. Therefore, Bradford White Waler Heaters remains open to supply essential and critical hot water product," Taylor said in a prepared statement. "It’s essential to provide reliable, abundant hot water to hospitals, nursing homes, food manufacturing and even residential homes. By continuing to operate our Middleville fac­ tory. we can help meet the critical need for using hot water for sanitizing and hygienic purposes. I’m so proud °f our employees and the role they are playing in the fight against the spread of COVIlM^” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's recent “slay in place” executive order ordering non-essential employees to stay at home does not apply to critical infrastructure workers. a.s described by a recent memo from the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure .Security Agency of the Department of Homeland Security that was issued March 19. government goes virtual Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's “Stay Home, Stay Safe" executive order, announced Monday, may have suspended all public gatherings for at least three weeks, but it didn't stop local elected officials from getting some work done this week. Here, Mayor David Tossava says the pledge by himself in vacant council chambers at the start of the meeting while his fellow council members attend virtually. Since the livestream on the city’s website isn't interactive, the council held its meeting virtually on Join Me, a website for online meetings. Il worked - kind of - and the 15-minute session ended with a joke about toilet paper. Meanwhile, Hastings Area School System, which had postponed its meeting from last Monday, used Zoom online meeting service and involved more than 20 people, including the board members, in the meeting. Among participants' (from left, top row) Superintendent Dan Remenap, Assistant Superintendent of Student Achievement Matthew Goebel, board member Rob Pohl, board Chairman Luke Haywood, and board members Louis Wierenga Jr.;(second row, from left) Valerie Slauohter and Jennifer Eastman, resident Ben Eastman, board member Mike Nickels. Assistant Superintendent of Operations Tim Berlin; (bottom row) board member Dan Patton. Stories on city council, page 5, and school board, page 5. (Photos by Rebecca Pierce) Flexfab suspends production for two weeks Flexfab LLC of Hastings Wednesday announced ii had laid off most of its associates in Hastings and Grand Rapids. Company officials shared a message with associates and customers, saying they have continued to monitor the evolving COVID-19 situation. Due to numerous customer shut­ downs over the next two weeks, the majority of production at Die Hastings. Kentwood and Grand Rapids Lotions has been suspended through April 6, according to the statement Outbound shipping wjll remain 0 C(J during this umc.along with limited production to support critical infrastructure requirements “We remain highly committed to bringing you our very’ Ivst .service while providing our employees and you. our customers the ■support needed in limes>-. tlu. statement read. ...«*• "'H a (lccision have made lightly. « continue to face unprecedented times- our associates and the rommUnilics we operate. Hexlab I.I.C is11 '"S m,n„r, , .■ component parts f<* ">= °' duty track, auionwtivc’ ‘ which require flexible para. ( f 1,1,lsrKS’ of heat and cold. uj*,n ;,,remcs connectors, etxilanl hot,, ^ le charge an special reinforced stun** <q^* r hose, and as flexibleductiW»°'av^ '-'nds as uell 9 applications. Theonline Hastings Area School System Board of Educabon n.eol ng on Monday was necessary to comply with orders requiring soc.al dstanctng to protect against the Sead o coronavirus COVID-19. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) �Page 2 — Thursday. March 26, 2020 — The Hasl’hgs Bnnn r Spectrum Health accepting donations of medical supph®s . Statist . . . __ .. Center in Hastings is local dro^pffsite - Responding to the outpouring of commu­ nity inquiries and offers of supportL, iSpecIrum Health Tuesday opened 14 drop-off donation sites for medical supplies, beginning at noon Tuesday. March 24. The locations and hours of operation are listed below. -While Spectrum Health continues to maintain a supply of masks and other persons al protection equipment for its patients and health care providers, we arc working to stretch our supply and turning to the commu­ nity because wc anticipate the need will con­ tinue lo grow,” Rick Jensen, Spectrum Health media relations representative said. Along with the Spectrum Pennock State Street Center in Hastings (110# w- Stalc St.), nearby locations also include Spectrum Health South Pavilion (go st. SE, Cutlerville) and the Integrated Care Campus in Ionia (2776 S. Slate Road). Drop-off hours for these three sites are Monday-Friday 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Secretary of state to mail absentee voter applications Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced Monday that absentee voter bal­ lot applications will be mailed by her office to all voters in the May 5 election to help ensure both public health and democratic rights arc protected. “Our country has a long history of carry­ ing out elections in times of crisis, and we * are fortunate to have the tools to uphold that history today,” Benson said. “ Voting by mail protects public health, is highly accessible, and was clearly mandated by Michiganders when they overwhelmingly voted in 2018 to amend our state constitution and afford everyone this right.” For the past two weeks. Secretary Benson has been working with clerks across the state to determine if they need to hold an election in May. or if the entity placing the item on a ballot* could postpone until August. The majority of the questions on the May ballots arc school district millage and bond requests, and many districts have decided to postpone their elections. Benson gave clerks and the entities a few more days this week to make their decisions. For the entities that do not postpone [in several cases, because existing critical funds would expirej, the Bureau of Elections will mail absentee voter ballot applications to all voters with postage-paid return envelopes unless those voters have already requested an absentee voter ballot. The state will include a cover letter that voting by mail is the optimal way to cast a ballot due to the public health crisis. The state will assist local jurisdictions in ensuring postage-paid return envelopes are mailed to all who request bal­ lots. “We arc also working'to ensure the health and safety guidelines of our slate and federal government are followed in the lead up to and administration of the May 5 election,” Benson said. “This includes working to recruit election Workers to serve in all juris­ dictions- and providing hygiene supplies and explicit, guidance on how to process absent-voter ballots and carry out other elec­ tion duties while observing strict health pre­ cautions.” Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest infonnation is available at Michigan.goV/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus? Vermontville Maple Syrup Festival canceled Taylor Owens Staff Writer The 80th annual Vermontville Maple Syrup Festival was canceled by a unanimous vote of the Vermontville Maple Syrup Corporation during a meeting Tuesday evening. “I’m not going to be responsible for bring­ ing the coronavirus into Vermontville.'’ cor­ poration President Steve Hayes said. “It’s a pretty sad day; no one wanted to see that happen,” Vermontville Village President Jason Sheridan said. “This affects everybody. It's a big loss to the community.” Hayes said there was an in-depth discus­ sion al the meeting in the Vermontville Community Center, which was attended by the corporation chairs, syrup producers and residents who participate in the festival. They discussed pushing back the decision, in case the coronavirus pandemic is alleviated by late April, he said. But due to the decisions and money that depend on the festival hap­ pening or not, they decided to make the call. “There’s no sense in everyone putting for­ ward money for the festival and losing it,” Hayes said. “Il is going to hurt us financially, but I would rather them cancel it now, and know that it’s canceled rather than ‘what if, what if,’’* Denna Root-Matonis, owner of JoLei’s Diner said Friday. “I think it was lhe right choice the associa­ tion made.” Duane Eldred, owner of Duey’s Comer said. “Il was a tough decision but the right decision. The consideration of the busi­ ness in lhe community isn’t as important as the health of lhe community.” The cancellation will have an impact on Several organizations, for which the festival is the biggest fundraiser for lhe year. “We probably lose in the area of $4-5,000," Gary Goris of the Vermontville Lions Club said. “We use that festival lo support lhe proj­ ects we do all year.” Money raised through a chicken dinner goes toward Lions Club projects, such as getling glasses for the visually impaired and building ramps at the homes of people with disabilities. • The club doesn’t do any other fundraisers, and the rest of its budget comes from dona­ tions. “We're OK, but it's going lo cut back on what we can do,” Goris said. “We’ll try to take care of everybody, but in the end, we’ll have to budget for next spring.” “That’s our livelihood through the year.” Vermontville American Ixgion member Jim Zemke said. The Ixgion hosts a pancake breakfast during lhe festival. lhe money pays the club’s membership dues and building utilities. They The Vermontville Maple Syrup Festival was set to mark its 80th anniversary this year. also use it for scholarships and other local projects. “We are lucky enough this year, we had a bit left over to get us through this year,’ Zemke said. They can keep the lights on, but it will be difficult lo support other community causes. "We won’t be able lo do the things we usually do,” Zemke said. “The pancake fundraiser is the biggest fundraiser we do each year,” Maple Valley Band Boosters President Holly Bcrkimer said. “I have been deeply touched by lhe concern and support offered to the band on Facebook posts when the news of the cancellation was shared. Il is a beautiful thing to live in such a tight-knit community.” Festival arts and crafts chair Cheryl Sheridan said she was heartbroken by lhe cancellation. One-third of the funds raised from the arts and crafts show goes to General Federation of Women’s Clubs-Vermontville, and it is the club’s only fundraiser. The money the club receives goes toward scholarships and donations to local causes, such as hospice care, Sheridan said. They will have to choose what donation^ they arc able to make. Cheryl and Jason Sheridan W'ere the 2019 festival grand marshals, and their daughter Garnet is on this year’s festival queen's court. “Since she has Ircen a little girl, she has wanted to be on the Maple Syrup Festival Queen’s Court,” Cheryl Sheridan said. Hayes said they plan to include the court in next year’s activities. While many organizers and residents said they are open to the idea of having some sort of event later in the year, they pointed to a number of factors that would impact the festi­ val. “You can’t just push it off. because every­ thing has to fall in place.” Goris said. Many parts of the festival, such as the car­ nival, flea market and arts and crafts arc booked through the summer, and would not be available for a postponed festival. Organizers said part of lhe popularity of the festival is rooted in it being the first big event after the end of winter If it were lo take place later in the summer, it would be competing with other festivals,’open houses, weddings and more. ’ Diner owner Root-Matonis pointed out there are other events. Mich as Visit Vermontvdle Day jn AugUst and the 100th annual Fireman’s Dance in June, where fund­ raisers could be held “All the organizers work very’ hard yearround to make thc festival happen, and although it is disappointing, we are hopeful we can come up uitfc tkjngs to do to not only mitigate our losseSt ^ut bring people togeth­ er,” Berkimer said. •• \t this point. I think we’ll have to wait untU llie national emergen­ cy is over to con* to<ielher and brainstorm. "inch is up in lh j . h( noW, making it difficult to plan.” * Governor’s order prompts liquor sales People figure the run on liquor in Hastings liquor. l0 assisl F riday afternoon was triggered when Gov. I\vo elderly women who were shopping But th,. Kria M<^lribut>on’ . ' 1 - — ............................ . - ---------- ----------------------- --------------------- - ■ Proved fonuiuX'^P^;^^ Z Gretchen Whitmer called out lhe Michigan wondered about “mules” - and they weren’t talking about the animal variety. They found National Guard. No reason was given for the call, so die out that a key ingredient in the drink is gin­ On Monday, H,v . dcred all nongovernor’s action fueled a rumor that martial ger beer. e-s-senna bns.ne„ r° , ..and .hat Another shopper joked that, if he was included liquor Mf)r' 10 d law was going to be declared. That’s when people headed for the liquor going lo be stuck in his home with his kids for weeks, he would need some libations to stores and started stocking up. ........ . alcohol weX, >ve consu.npuon o . The scene was oddly festive. Shoppens make it through. luiter that day at a press conference, the makes the body n, * imm1"11' Ln.’ ,in were in a “jolly mood,” one woman observed. of all kind* yasfepbblc to viruses (’arts were filled to thc brim as people martial law rumor was debunked when loaded up on ail sorts of wine, beer and hard Whitmer said the Guard had been called out The following items will be accepted at thc The following items will be accepted donation sites: N95 masks Isolation masks (adult/child) Masks with face shield/visor Handmade or sewn reusable masks Face shields Goggles/safcty glasses Bouffant caps Extended extra protection gloves - all sizes Isolation gowns Bleach wipes Swabs (flexible mini-tip) Pocket-sized sanitizer Thermometers (digital, disposable, tempo­ ral) Traveling to drop-off sites to donate medi- cal supplies does* . bich allows a|lpws lor for an an .. which wide stay-at-home,o providing necessiexception to the orfef°'P a55islance as a ties to “individuals who ne^ result of thlSf'rntjJS(lonors are asked to place of exposure for a • dcd at each location donations in bin P f at least six while maintaining a distance , ‘ feet from others. currently accepting Spectrum Health is nt donations of 3-D p b|ankets. Anyone XP7trge"ion requiring special " Llm! or with questions about donaSJ email the supply chain team.covid19supplies @ spectrumheal tn .org. Middleville OKs action to help village employees Greg Chandler Staff Writer With just enough members present to form a quorum, the Middleville Village Council Tuesday approved two measures to help village employees who may be impacted by the COVID-19 virus. The council approved up to six additional days of paid sick leave for employees who may be impacted by the virus in one way or another, and also agreed to pay employees through April 13. even if their schedules might be impacted in some way. Both measures were approved on 4-0 votes, with Village President Pro Tempore Sherry Ronning and trustees Mike Cramer, Amanda Fisk and Phil VanNoord approving. Village President Charlie Pullen and trustees Mike Lytle and Ed Schellinger were absent. T he additional paid sick time would go into effect if an employee is diagnosed with COVID-19 or needs to obtain a medical diagnosis of care after experiencing symptoms of the virus. It would also be available if an employee is exposed to the virus and is complying with a recommendation of a public health official or health care provider that the employee’s presence may jeopardize the health of others, Cramer said. The extra sick leave also could apply if an employee has to care for a family member who is diagnosed with COVID-19 or is experiencing symptoms, or if the individual needs to care for a child if a school or child care facility is closed because of the virus, Cramer said. The leave time would be available through the end of year, and the village manager could extend the leave after consulting with the village president on a case-by-case basis, Cramer said. The council also voted to pay full-time employees as if they were working full-time, even if their schedule is impacted by the vims, and part-time employees as if they worked their usual schedule through April 13, unless otherwise modified. The village continues to operate even • though the offices are closed to public access as part of the effort to contain the spread of COVID-19 “The office staff will be working remotely to make sure everything that is needed to be done is being done,” Village Manager Duane Weeks said. Phone messages can be left al the village office number, 269-795-3385, and emails may be directed to the appropriate staff person, with a full list of email addresses available on the village website, villagcofmiddlcville.org, . Weeks.told council members that the public . ’ works department is continuing to make sure ’ water and wastewater services operate as expected, as well as street maintenance. The council also authorized Weeks to postpone, cancel or reschedule council . meetings in consultation with the village president, if necessary, while Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s executive orders remain in place. The council is exploring the possibility of teleconferencing its next scheduled meeting in April. Courts, county offices closed until] April 13 All Barry County government offices that aren’t needed to sustain or protect life are temporarily closed until April 13 to prevent lhe inadvertent spread of the novel coronavi­ rus COVID-19. The announcement came in response to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s executive order on March 23. Originally. Barry County Chief Judge William Doherty had announced the adjourn­ ment of all court matters, with some excep­ tions, effective Wednesday, March 18. Then, on March 20, Doherty announced that access to courtrooms and other spaces would be limited to no more than 10 persons including staft, effective immediately The court was closed to the general public except for essential functions involving health and safety and Constitutional rights. lo confront this unprecedented public health crisis, thc Michigan Supreme Court issued Administrative Order 2020-2, which highlights in specific detail essential func­ tions. This order supersedes any previously issued Local Administrative Orders regarding lhe crisis.” b Doherty said that courts statewide "are tak ing this step in unison so that we send a clear message to thc public that we are taking everv possible step to stop thc virus while continu­ ing to provide essential services. "Our team is adjusting as quickly as possi­ ble to the crisis, and we appreciate the support of the public as we work to put more business online in the coming days.” Then on Monday, County Administrator Michael Brown announced that all countv government activities not necessary to sustain or protect life would be suspended, effective March 24 through April 13. tllVC lite county’s news release stated: "In order to prevent the spread of CO VID-Wcorotnvirus and to protect the overall public health of our citizens, tamilies and employees, and following with the requirements of Executive Order 2020-21, Barry County and Barr)’ County Trial Court operations will be closed.” Only those workers who are necessary to sustain or protect life or those workers who are necessary to conduct minimum basic operations are reporting to work. For periodic updates on lhe status of county operations, visit www.barrycounly.org. BaAebook tokeje>upto date until the edition ■S Riiinted! �Tha Hastings Banner — Thursday. March 26, 2020 — Page 3 An important letter to our renders Bear Reader, Reader businesses, schoolscommunity Bear ever. ,h<' Fa,on District Health Our family of publications provide news Mcpairtment s ----------medical UIICVUM director briefed coun-* isand information about our community that uncicu wuiiy otlicials on COVID-19, we covered it and you can’t get anywhere else. ued customers - »1 ’ Risers and our - . • ■ ^C<’•-8 A----- - "-' ‘"^un* in Thursday's Banner, * __ We arc unlike any other news outlet in the vy. “''ill ill I nurjUJiiy X Ditiutvi. readers - to sinW *4y n,S‘ V it officials said thc Maple ’ area because we’ve got feet on the street ng We're your alK1 Xollr School gym could become a and we’re paying attention to what’s going s. • We are in5 loEUncr. makeshift hospital if there is a surge in coro- on. We^upport our community Io the ulnu)s| ’Die Banner is your newspaper of record. It cases*we reported it. hen precautions were described for lhe publishes every week on Thursday, provid­ ”rWe’ honour community willMcpupaml transport of COVID-19 patients in advanced ing local news, sports, editorial and op'ed Itle support ambulances, that was another columns, letters to thc editor, advertising, iTa grtt* ’“bscribe to The exclusive local news story' in The Banner last legal notices, obituaries and more. Banner and gi« “ 8ifts 10 week. The Reminder is the free local feature ’ 4S-9554. Community journalism - with ti c empha­ magazine we publish that covers the region. friends and relaU> ' ,0 Or call that numlx-r io run an ad to thank sis on community - is what we do tnd we’ve Readers look forward to it every Saturday. vour local busing5 call attention to been doing that successfully for more than (We know because you tell us.) someone who's doing great things in the 164 years. The Banner and The Reminder help you *^"8 >'mes. We hope, after all this time, a coronavirus save money and time; you can see what’s community during: We're working for “ but we need your pandemic doesn’t kill it. This week, newspa­ going on locally and plan for what’s ahead. support to continue publishing every week. Unfortunately, in recent weeks, planning pers across the slate of Michigan stopped printing, h’s ironic when you consider that for what’s ahead suddenly got tougher. front all of us at J-Ad Graphics residents need their local news more than The mandated statewide shutdown of Spring marches on SpartanNash reserving time for certain shoppers; installing sneeze guards SpartanNash and its family for retail stores is setting aside lime twice per week for store guests most at risk of contracting COVID-19, including older adults, pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals. Reserved hours will be every Tuesday and Thursday from 7 to 9 a.m. SpartanNash operates more than 150 stores in nine states, including Family Fare in Hastings and Delton and D&W in Caledonia. Thc company announced Wednesday it has begun installing 1.420 36-inch square, clear Plexiglas sneeze guards at its corporate-owned retail stores, pharmacies and Quick Stop fuel centers as an added measure of safety for its family of associates and store guests. Every cashier station, deli counter, pharma­ cy, customer service counter and Quick Stop fuel center checkout will have thc added safe­ ty measure installed by r\pril 3. “As we navigate these uncertain times, our company has two top priorities: the well-be­ ing and safety of our family of associates, customers and communities; and supporting health officials and government leaders to contain lhe virus.” Tom Swanson, executive vice president and general manager of retail operations, said. “We have been a trusted pro­ vider of grocery products [bi ftiqRi’fh'aYf'lOO years, and we take this responsibility very seriously. The sneeze guards -are - an added measure of safety for our associates and cus­ tomers. Our teams are working diligently to get them installed as quickly as possible.” The sneeze guards are made from Plexiglas and are more impact resistant than glass, while retaining similar optical qualities. These sanitary' barriers are easily sanitized using non-abrasive cleaners. In keeping with SpartanNash’s commitment to adhering lo the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines while redoubling its sanitation and Spring arrived early this year, March 19. Regardless of the official date, signs of spring are welcomed by almost everyone. Many migratory birds have returned, and spring bulbs, such as these crocuses, are adding color to the landscape. Winter weath­ er conditions are not necessarily gone for the season, though. Two inches of snow Sunday night and Monday morning reminded local residents of that. Wednesday marked the first of a stretch of 50-plus-degree days, with a chance of sun. So, maybe the daffodils and hyacinths will be sporting their colors soon, too. (Photo by Bobbie Wilkins) MEETINGS, continued from page 1 said he attended a webinar with the Michigan Municipal League, which provided a break­ down of the various systems available for teleconferencing meetings. “It seemed to be the most complete,’’ Weeks said of Zoom. One of lhe most important aspects of the software is that it allows for spoken public comment, which was required in Whitmer’s order. To listen to thc meeting on Zoom, the attendee calls a number provided by the meet­ ing body. During public comment, attendees may voice their concerns or ask questions like would be allowed in a regular meeting. Officials say there is a learning curve - and they already have improvements in mind after the initial test nins with their systems. “I think we had a few hiccups," Hastings Mayor David Tossava said. The challenge for SpartanNash is installing 36-inch Plexiglas sneeze guards are every cashier station. the Hastings City Council was that they were deli counter, pharmacy, customer service counter and Quick Stop fuel cenjer checkout attempting u> have a videoconference, and by April 3. (Photo provided) v \ ‘ -1 sphvestream ofjhe meetihg at the same time. K * ’ ’ croafed*j'ssues of interference and feedback, with the different microphones. cleaning procedures. are being cleaned aid sanitized at least every - 61 “The feedback was so bid sometimes they Those are just two of the changes being 30 minutes. ' couldn’t hear what I was saying,” Tossava implemented in response to COVID-19. Other changes to store operations include said. He was in the City Council chambers Stores suspended service at self-serve areas, adjusting operating hours for most stores pre­ while the other members were at their homes. including salad bars, soup bars and doughnut viously open 24 hours. As of March 17, oper­ £ “You’ve got to crawl before you can run," cases. These items can be purchased in pre­ ating hours at these locations are 6 a.m. lo ’ lie said, noting that council staff members packaged containers. midnight daily (check stores’ website for cur­ have fixes in mind, | In addition to daily cleaning procedures, rent store hours). The council also', heard public comment high-touch surfaces - such as food service More information can be found at spnrtan- from one person over thc phone during the counters, checkout lanes, conveyor belts, fuel nash.com/spartannash-coronavirus-updates. short meeting Monday. pump handles. PIN pads and touch screens Tossava wondered if lhe trial run might have permanent effects on how meetings are “I think a lot of municipalities big and small are using Zoom.” Mike Kenyon Nashville Village President run in the future — such as allowing members to call in if lhey are sick or out of town. “Is this going to sei lhe tone for the way things are done down lhe road? I don’t know.’’ Tossava said. “I think it went pretty well, all things con­ sidered,” Hastings Superintendent Dan Remenap said about the school board meeting Monday. That meeting look place on Zoom, and also streamed on Facebook live. While the meeting had around 20 attendees on Zoom, il had more than 100 on Facebook, Remenap said. It was so successful, the board may stream future meetings on Facebook live. Different governing bodies will have dif­ ferent methods of attending their virtual meet­ ings, and some are still working out the details. Infonnation on how to watch or listen will be posted on their office windows, web­ sites and Facebook pages. “Wc’rc going to use every- avenue we have to communicate ihis,” Weeks said. Police adjust to shutdown reality - and lots of calls Tiiylor Owens Staff Writer The state shutdown is an unprecedented event for law enforcement, just as much as it is for lhe general public. The Barry County Sheriff’s Office and Hastings City Police are working without nonessential personnel. Thc absence of sup­ port staff means a lot of police officers are answering the phones. Lieutenant Jay Olejniczak said he personal­ ly fielded about 30 phone calls between 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday from people with questions about die shutdown. “We’ve been inundated with calls," Olejniczak said. “People don’t understand some of the restrictions." People want to know what businesses are deemed essential, and what are considered legal reasons to leave the house. The Sheriff’s Office has been pointing callers directly to thc governor’s executive order, which includes specific exceptions to the order. Most violations of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s executive order requiring people to stay m their homes will be handled by local hw enforcement and the county prosecutor’s office, according to lhe Michigan Attorney General’s Office. Barry County Prosecutor Julie NakfoorPrill said she will participate in a teleconfer­ ence ' meeting with the attorney general's office Thursday morning. She plans to seek , i .rille nion then on exemptions lo the execu­ te order and under what specific laws these Vi F*' O^-S^d Hastings City Police <!-«£*g3SSS o,“LC?h..v do the o»'"« verifying thal W,“Lh/ve a valid reason to be in public and rtre businesses that are open are consideied essential. process moves much Olejrnzcu Jc baVC letters from their faster whe P\ tjng them as essential employee badges identifying them as health care helpful." he said. 71,al ’the* iespond to calls, oilicen. are When i Jf miens and, when appropntaking safety ’ ate, are using masks, gloves, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes. Also, if they can do so, officers are handling nonemergency situa­ tions by phone and meeting with people out­ side, avoiding enclosed spaces such as houses or vehicles. “We would like to expose our people as little as possible," Olejniczak said. Tlie sheriff’s office has suspended some functions indefinitely, including weekend urine screening, daily preliminary- breath test­ ing, all fingerprinting sen-ices, sex offender registrations and inmate visits with the public, although professional visits are allowed. Gun registrations can be mailed to lhe sheriff’s office. The security steps when bringing inmates to the jail has been bolstered, including tem­ perature checks. Sheriff Dar Leaf said. If inmates should show any symptoms of lhe coronavirus COVID-19. the plan is to place them in a negative pressure cell. The cells take air circulation from inside the build­ ing. but any air leaving the cell goes outside through the ceiling. The jail has two negative pressure cells. If the jail gets more than two people with possible symptoms, they will have to share the cells. As of Tuesday afternoon, Olejniczak said the jail has not recently housed anyone with a fever. Leaf and Pratt both said calls for service have been lower than usual. "Everyone’s doing a good job staying home, for lhe most part," Pratt said. He advised people to continue doing so, especially if they do not want the shutdown to be extended to six or nine weeks. Leaf warned people that a number of COVID-19 scams are proliferating on lhe internet, such as medical supply sales from fake online stores. He advised people to onlypurchase from retailers they know and trust. He also advised people to be wary- of rumors. Last week, a rumor started that the stale was close to a declaration of martial law. which fueled a run on liquor stores in town* Leaf said there has been no conversation about a declaration of martial law. Olejniczak said Tuesday the office is not aware of any further steps in locking down the stale. “Communication is the best way to squash all the rumors," Pratt said. “nle more know|. edge people have, the better,” NEWS BRIEFS continued from front page Media Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: To the Editor: TEk FAX: BavexFinanciauIbc. BOO.388.6688 800.230.9569 www.bauorfinancial.axn research O bauerfinandalcom Highpoint Community Bank Recognized for Exceptional Performance Indisputably One of the Nation’s Strongest Banks March 2020: Coral Cables, Florida, BauerFInandal, Inc, the Nation’s Premier Bank Rating Firm, commends Highpoint Community Bank, Hastings, Michigan on its achievement of another 5-Sur Superior Rating. Not only has Highpoint Community Bank earned Bauer’s highest (5-Star) rating for financial strength and stability, it has maintained that (op rating for 42 consecutive quarters, sailing through one of the most trying economic times of our lifetimes and giving it an added designation of "Exceptional Performance Bank". This status Is reserved for banks that have earned Bauer’s highest rating consistently for at least 10 consecutive years. It also indicates that Highpoint Community Bank is indisputably one of the strongest banks In the nation. “As the president of BauerFInandal, I am often asked what it takes to be a 5-Star bank, reflects Karen Dorway, president of the research firm. Tike so many other things in life, success in banking boi.s down to knowledge. Knowledge of banking, of course, but knowledge of its customers and the communities the bank serves are equally important. This Intimacy enables the bank to steer dear of danger and work with customers for a common goal. It’s what gets so many community banks, like Highpoint Community Bank, through the tough times unscathed.’ Highpoint Community Bank was established in 1886 and has been working side by side with neighbors and friends for 134 years, helping to make the community what it Is today Currently. Hiqhpoint Community Bank operates through seven conveniently located offices in Bellevue, Caledonia, Hastings, Marshall, Middleville, Nashville and Wayland and can also be found online at bKhJlQillKQinmunjtYbinjLlQm. Highpoint Community Bank: "Your Hometown Bank Since 1886." Spring Adopt-AHighway pickup canceled In accordance with <;„v Gretchen Whttntcr and tlH: Michigan Ikpnnntcm of Health and Human Services’ reeonunenda. lions designed to help prevent the spread ol COVIDdd. the Michigan of transportation will « cance||illg the .spring .AdopfA-Highway Pickups previiuslt scheduled tor April 18-26 and M QJ’7 around thc slate. J . lhe program ^nt|y plBnned l0 resume wnh thoul^tde sllnimct scheduled lor July 18 26. M<>rv jnlo,„liltil)n Id cn Adopt AHtghw ay- Member FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender. BAUtiFWANaAL. Inc., Coral Gables, Florida, the nation’s leading independent bank and credit union rating and research firm, has been reporting on and analyzing the performance of U.S. banks and credit unions since 1983. No Institution can pay for or opt out of a BauetFinancal rating. Star-ratings are all available for free at biudilun^LpnL ### Michigan.gov/ BAURFiXAHOAi.,INC. P.O. Box 143520, Coral Cables, Fl 33114. �Pio. 4 - Thursday, March 26. 2020 - Tha Hasids Did you _ see? Epic times define epic people Take-out dining lar-sized gray and fox squirrels. . > A«runh taken bv readers or our staff members that We’re dedicating this space to a photograph taken^oy^^ .( lo Ncwsnx)m represents Barry County. If you,. P. MI49058:oremailnew.s0i>j-ndgraphics. Hastings Banner, 1351NJ^ when the photo was taken, who took ^^XrcUnt or anecdotal infonnation. remember? Young doc ready to practice practicing । ! | Banner March 29,1972 Dr. James Frye, 25, (left) arrived here Monday, March 20, to spend six weeks being introduced to the practice of medicine in a community hospital such as Pennock, and working with family physicians. Dr. Frye, who completed his pre-med work at Notre Dame and is going to graduate in June from the University of Michigan’s School of Medicine, plans on being a family practitioner. He is spending the first two weeks with Dr. James Spindler (center), his second with Dr. Jack A. Brown, and die third two weeks with Dr. Thomas W. Myers of Nashville. Dr. Larry Blair (right) is coordinating the program here. Have you Celeste Wolverton has spent a great deal of her life teaching, inspiring and guiding young people, mostly as an elementary teacher in Middleville and at the First Presbyterian Church of Hastings. Bom in 1949 in Indianapolis, lhe daughter of Bob and Marian Celeste (Barrett) Keel, Wolverton is the youngest of two children. Her brother, Tom Keel, resides in Clarkston. Wolverton’s family remained in Indianapolis until she was in high school. They relocated to Flint, and she graduated from Flint Central High School in 1967. Her father, who had been a pilot during World War II, had a background in education, and her mother worked as a secretary. Her dad also was an active volunteer. “I come from a long line of chair people,’’ she said. “My dad was, my grandfather was on the school board. [They were] very involved with their church, which I am, too.” She attended Alma College, where she met her future husband, Tom Wolverton, a former U.S. Navy pilot and Vietnam veteran. She left Alma after a year and got married. She and her husband, now married for more than 50 years, then moved to Grand Rapids, and Wolverton went back to college, receiving a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Michigan State in 1972. She taught in Grand Rapids for a couple of years before having children. She would eventual­ ly teach at Thomapple Kellogg for 25 years. During that time, she also earned a master’s degree from MSU. She and Tom have three daughters: Lisa Brown, a first-grade teacher at Star Elementary School in Hastings; Shelly, a pharmaceutical manager, who lives in Middleville; and Erin Bollman, a stay-athome mom and volunteer, who lives in Canadian Lakes. “1 just love it out here, I love our commu­ nity. It’s very different than when we first moved out here,” Wolverton said. “Back then, nobody really knew much about Barry County if they lived outside of it.” Fondness for her students, mainly second­ er third-graders, hasn't waned. “I knew them as 8- and 9-year-olds, but I still hear from them as adults," she said. “It’s wonderful.” Wolverton also has long been motivated by her faith and involvement in her church, as well as a nondenominational Christian organization called Young Life. “One of the things I really feel is import­ ant is to give our youth a moral compass,” she said. When she was a teen in Hint, her dad and other church members wanted to foster a strong youth program and decided to hire a Young Life leader. "The message (of Young Life] is to con­ nect kids with their faith and back to their lives of young people in Barry County. Celeste Wolverton is this week’s Banner Bright Light. Favorite childhood memory: Camping. My dad was a scout leader, so we camped a lot as a family. I loved ping to summer camp as a family. Something most people don’t know about me: I’m very afraid of heights. I get up on something high, and 1 feel like I’m being sucked off. If I could meet anyone: Jesus. J would really like to pick his brain about certain apostles and a couple of archangels. And I would really like to know what it’s going to Ise like here after I’m dead. If I could go anywhere: I would go any­ where with my family. Our kids are fun, and our grandkids are fun. Favorite type of movie: Anything that’s historical fiction. Celeste Wolverton Favorite historic period: 1 like the American Revolution. But I also like the own churches, but it’s also to reach kids that World War II period. My husband and I read have no connection to churches. And so they a lot of World War II books because our par­ don’t even meet in churches." she said of ents were part of that era. and it’s really groups that currently meet in Hastings and pretty amazing what they did. Middleville. “The leaders are a variety of Advice for a high school student: Pick a people. They go to what they call ‘club;’ it’s positive target that’s going to make )ou a not called ‘youth group.’ They do fun stuff, better person, and then have goals to get and there’s always a message.” there, to achieve it. Her own faith was inspired by the Young If I could change anything: That the Life program, which deepened her relation­ nuclear family wou|d become the most ship with God later in life. nnportant thing for the sake of the kids. I “Young Life’s whole philosophy is; Kids don’t want it lo Sound nkc fin judging, I don’t really care what you know or want to understand that thin-s happe" between share until they know that you care about adults, but regardless when kids are them,” she said. “They need people in their involved, the adults should be mature enough lives who care about them. They also have a to put differences aside for their children’s philosophy of connecting with kids being part of the community, not just in the church, Best gift; My f.lm not just at school.” Best advice ever received: My dad wrolc Current trends show a need for local pro­ ’Slowdown grams like this. and smell the roses ‘ wiu-n he gave H to me. “You see these kids that are vaping or try­ X“>:.................................................. »■ ing drags or doing all this stuff, and it’s like, they need something,” she said. “In our rural now "aS io-. Huy. sl1(lw d *i'h my ' • . t|,c Hungs community, we need stuff for kids. We need to have something for them to identify with, and if we don’t give it to them, they’re going lood for the soul ’ xvbl-,h ;s probably more to find it. and sometimes it’s not going to be ’"Wfontth.m what you want them to find. You need to tell lor your bixly. bui . F f for your them that you see them, that you care about .......'itui them.” Outside of Young Life, Wolverton and her husband arc involved with lhe Harry "‘M,.- Ihe I’"*- k Community Foundation. They also are featured involved with picklcball tournaments and games at the church for local residents and keep themselves busy with other church-re­ lated activities, along with visiting friends and family. For her dedication to helping improve the As a former classroom teacher, I can commiserate with parents attempting to homeschool children amid the lockdowns and letdowns of the coronavirus outbreak. “Day 4 of home schooling,” wrote one exasperated parent on Facebook last week. “One student is suspended and the other is expelled.” Humor is helping a lot of us to deal with thc fear that this horrible pandemic is spreading over thc world. To me, the humor being shared while we all quake is indicative of the American spirit. “Your brother’s beside himself because he’s worried there’ll be no Major League Baseball for die whole summer,” my sister­ in-law told me during a phone conversation last week. To which I couldn’t pass up the chance to reply with a play on that classic Tom Hanks line from “A League of Their Own:’’ “So there w crying in baseball.” Humor can assuage our fears, but it certainly doesn’t diminish the threatening and still-building facts this world faces every morning. COVID-19, a disease with no treatment, no cure and no prevention, is overrunning our society. As of this week, nearly 400,000 people are sick worldwide and nearly 50,000 in the U.S. The 600-death rate was surpassed in the United States. Tuesday and 16,591 people have died worldwide. Those numbers won’t even be accurate by press time because the rate is said to be doubling every two days. Health care workers, unable to obtain personal protection equipment, are becoming infected and warn that there is the potential for not enough of them to treat patients. lhe war to fight the epidemic has forced the stand-down of the American economy. The outlook for small business owners in Barry' County is reeling. Maybe the worst assessment was provided this week by one medical professional, concerned about talk of relaxing health care directives and state executive orders, who commented to a national news reporter that “we’re not out of the woods. We’re not even in the woods, yet.” For those who remember lhe planes hitting the Twin Towers in New York City, the coronavirus epidemic has become a slow-motion 9-11. As a former teacher, I still reach for the takeaway points in any lesson. Here’s what I have learned - or am learning - about this epic storm and what I hope as a community we may all be feeling at some level. One, life is a gift. We’ve all heard this line and know it’s true. But today, with the threat of sickness and death in lhe air, we can really feel its meaning. “If you have your health, you’re rich,” New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo reminded us last week, “the rest you can figure out.” Two, faith can ease our fears. Not everyone believes the same, and we should be thankful to live in a country' that allows us that freedom. But let’s not doubt the reality of faith. Faith is the assurance of things hoped for and a conviction of things not seen. We may not be able lo see the God in whom many of us believe, but that does not negate the power of faith. We can’t see the coronavirus, either, but we know it’s real. Three, for those who do believe in a higher power, this pandemic is not necessarily an evidence of God’s wrath on a sinful world. Rather, it may be evidence of God’s guiding hand. When everything is going right, it’s easy to trust in God. but now He may be testing how deep our trust in Him goes. Four, this challenge has become a gift, a time when our frenetic, distracted and material lives become quieter, a time when we can settle in and take slock of lhe things most important to us. It’s a time to spend with family, our most precious commodities, and with those friends we hold dear - in person or remotely. It’s a time to tell them what they mean lo us and to maybe even meaningfully discuss our hopes and wishes. Five, this destructive disease also demonstrates the value of planning. For how "te -hX I'7'" S;::„ " 94^3 What do you „ many years h!,Is.'' col)apsc of the economy means? The sudden coUnPcrcdit card and the confront »l>°n paycheck to addictions and |essonsour paycheck brings taught us to be parents and gran1 l» & . and backup. I-- of all: We and community. , the most sobering those rights. Noting last weekend s crowds at public parks, basketball courts and public walking areas in New York City despitei his statewide emergency order, Gov. called out the behavior as arrogant, insensitive,self-serving”and"disrespectful. In today’s world, I wonder if we even know what those words mean. History shows that, no matter the tragedy and despite the calamity, good always does prevail. We’re seeing that even now in this signal moment of our time. But how- do we respond to this fearful challenge - personally and locally, beyond the state and national guidelines to isolate, distance and restrict? Hardest hit in Barry County, obviously, are our small businesses, heir economic peril, unfortunately, is the damage we re sustaining in this war against the virus. Some restaurants are able to accommodate take-out orders and, though only a lifeline, we should patronize them when we can. But also - and especially for those businesses completely shut down - a note of appreciation or promise of future business can go a long way. One local resident emailed her thanks to an executive of her area-based company who committed lo continuing her paycheck through next month. The immediate email response to lhe employee carried the words, “your thanks eased a lol of anxiety.” Note writing can touch the heart of our most isolated - seniors totally quarantined to nursing homes and assisted-living facilities. In my neighborhood, a group of friends have taken the names of each other’s elderly parents and are regularly sending individual notes of encouragement. Don’t have a senior lo write? Call a local senior facility - even the Commission on Aging - and get the name of a new friend, even if, because of privacy laws, it’s only a first name and it has to be addressed to a front desk. Leam how to communicate and comfort through social media if you have a computer, a phone, an iPad or some other device. Television news carries amazing accounts of connections being made with each other online in sometimes very’ creative ways ways that can even be taught online. Here, we can give credit to the Millennial generation which has taken so much criticism not just for lhe public gathering scenes in lhe parks in New York City and the beaches in Florida, but which has given us much of the expertise needed for older folks to leam apps and programs and platforms. Millennials have given us technology, they have so much to offer in this time of peril, and they are so happy to be asked and included. Finally, let’s give thanks for a tiny but always-welcome and especially-needed occasion in this time of anxiety: The coming of spring. Spring is a renewal, a return of the crocuses and daffodils that remind us of the wonderful lime in which we live. In this time of worldwide anxiety and restlessness, the flowers, the robins, and the buds are a reminder that we will return to the life we once knew and enjoyed so fully. Stay safe. Stay strong. Doug VanderLaan, Guest Columnist think? Here’s your chance to take pan in an interactive m.kt; • tion posed each week by accessing our website www Ha T”’P011* Vote 00 the Qucs' be tabulated and reported along with a new question J^tl"ghBanner Results will me following week. Last week: Has Michigan handled the novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic well? Yes 100% No 0% Forthlsweek; restrictions m^hC0\,D'19 threat, modical license SS6m^re,axed so heal,h care workers continue after fh«anC^°'her s(a,es’ Should,hat «»nunue after the pandemic is over? □ Yes □ No �Thursday, Match 26. 202C — Pa©e The Hastings Banner — Thursday, March 26.2020 — Page 5 »5 ■ ■ . HastinSs school board conducts business remotely Luke Froncheck ' Staff Writer Hastings Area School System's Board of Education met online for the first tim» Monday night. e Led by Superintendent Dan Remenan through the Zoom online meeting service more than 20 people, including the board members, participated in die meeting. * Comments from lhe public praised school officials for the innovation and encouraged them to continue online meetings in the future. Die need for social distancing, due to the pandemic caused by coronavirus COVID-19 was the reason for thc online meeting. ’ The pandemic is wreaking havoc with the school year - and that was much on the minds of school officials. "When can we expect to see kids back in classrooms?" board member Dan Patton asked. "I hate to start our meeting out like this, but that’s lhe elephant in lhe room." “I jusl don’t know.” Remenap replied. The state has not released any further infor­ mation regarding K-12 education and the novel coronavirus, other than that schools "ould remain closed through April 13. niM Cn’einap said’^causc of U* lack of infor' • non, he doesn’t know when classes would resume. .... 1 -iUsl terrible for our seniors,” he said, tn working with my admin team to try and «,?Urv 'Hit a way to still give them a memorac senior year - whether that be through new or old traditions." During the public-comment portion of the meeting, one person, through Facebook, asked about prom. ’Thom is up in the air like every thing else." Remenap said. “We’re going to do all we can. It we have to cancel prom, we’ll discuss alter­ natives. We’ve already met. If we’re in ses­ sion. prom will be a go.’’ Even with students more or less confined to their homes, Hastings teachers have been try­ ing to make sure kids are busy with school­ work. “My kids have had work to do every night, so I thank thc teachers." Patton said. When students at Southeastern Elementary return to class, they will meet a new furry friend. Larry and Earlene Baum donated $8,774 to fund half of the purchase and -Ppon at asso^.. ., .y jK, ‘ J with the dog ’Hered Under lhci* upkeep for a Southeaster”Rentcnap^' al the school insurance- ,,n0fcciation m I-— . L'Allhough mo* studenis school, lhe F challcnces r ‘n “As^niucM' wc * r«d families, we are a school. ™ pipped lo feed a community 1 [r J* *"'• We have to balance thc needs ^ ^munily with the safety of our «"P'X 1 h'ch is * chailenge for us ng “We are taking ‘ Henge one day at a time through cooperative efforts from many great and kind pc^P • In other business, the board Wfls upd;)led Qn flooring impr°vcnl s nl the elementary This is Phase 6 of the 2015 bond project in which Northeastern* southeastern. and Star • Approved vcaching assignments for '. .spring sports: Jason Burghardt, varsity base- } “We are taking this ball; Steve Collins, middle school boys track; J challenge one day at a Mike Davis, varsity softball; James Doran, JV < boys golf; Andrew Haines, varsity girls ten- . time through cooperative nis; kounney Kendall. JV girls soccer; ‘ efforts from many great Anthon) Knop, assistant girls track; Bruce J and kind people." Krueger, varsity boy> golf; James Murphy, J assistant boys track; Melinda Nickels, varsity • Dan Remenap boys track; Morgan Pletcher, assistant middle > HASS Superintendent school track; lim Scheessel. varsity girls soc- । ccr. Melinda Shults, assistant middle school J track; Jason Sixberry. JV baseball coach; ’ elementary buildings will receive flooring Brian Teed, varsity girls track; and Chase • Youngs. JV girls tennis. • replacements. • Accepted the retirements of Joel Gerber, . The board approved the $179,867 floor replacement bid from Johnson Commercial Angela Stanton and Todd Monica. • Accepted the resignations of Sandra ‘ Interiors. “This is just so exciting and vital for our Mikolajczyk and Alvin Morgan. • Approved a $57,100 bid from Quality • district.” Remenap said. Environment for asbestos abatement in । The board also: • Announced thc top academic students for Northeastern and Southeastern. • Approved a $16,8.150 bid trom Lyon Steel ‘ the class of 2020. They are: Dane Barnes. Shannon Brown, Audrey Byykkonen. Hannah Lockers from Brainard Enterprises for locker ‘ Johnson. Eleanor McFarlan, Katie Pattok and replacement. Remenap noted that just repaint- ’ Anna Seheck. Sec next Thursday’s Banner for ing thc lockers would cost 80 percent of thc full replacement cost.' special coverage. City council hosts first virtual meeting Saxanah Kaechele Contributing Writer Thc governor’s "Stay Home. Stay Safe’’ executive order, announced Monday, March 23. required many adjustments. Among them, all public gatherings were suspended for at least three weeks. But citizens and governmental bodies can still attend local meetings virtually; and that is exactly what they did on Monday for the Hastings City Council meeting. Hastings City Manager Jerry Czarnecki (j/Vrite Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. . • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks’’ will not be accepted . unless there is a, compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. । • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate. Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; U.S. mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building. Washington. D.C. 20515-2203. phone (202) 225-3831. fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat. 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 90510 phone (202) 224-4822. Carv Peters Democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office Building. Washington, D.C. 20510nhnne (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room 720 110 Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids. Mich. 49503-2313. phone (616) 233- explained that viewing a city council meeting via the livestream 0” lhe city’s website has been an option for some time now. However, just offering the meeting through the lives­ tream doesn’t meet the requirements of thc executive order from the governor regarding thc Open Meetings Act. "The biggest thing is: Whatever we put in place, we have to provide for interaction amongst council members and citizens." Czarnecki said. Considering the fact that the livestream on the city’s website isn t interactive, the council also had to offer an option for citizen partici­ pation. “We had to put that | the Join Me meeting] together because of the Open Meetings Act adjustments that lhe governor made," Czarnecki said. Citizens could view the meeting via the livestream on the city’s website; or join the council members on the Join Me meeting, allowing for participation in public comment. Viewers could be anonymous; however, a name was required if (hey wished to partici­ pate in public comment. Czarnecki said lhe city usually has fewer than 10 citizens who view meetings via lives­ tream. On Monday, a total of 32 people viewed lhe meeting via the city’s livestream. and about a dozen joined the virtual meeting through Join Me. “Some [people] were doing both [plat­ forms], so we had some overlap ’’ Czarnecki said. "Still, lhe amount of people was signifi­ cantly higher than normal." Mayor David Tossava and Czarnecki were tuned into the virtual meeting from thc coun­ cil chambers. Other council members were virtually present during the livestream. Council member Don Bowers was absent. Council members were encouraged to attend remotely rather than in person, Czarnecki said. And the meeting’s agenda was boiled down into a second reading of two separate ordinances. “We are shrinking lhe meetings to things not be flushed.” he said. "We arc trying to ‘ prevent sewer backups." With residents spending more time at home, • the city is reminding residents that they can 1 prevent sewer backups by only flushing toilet 1 paper down the toilet, not wipes. Wipes, even J those labeled as flushable, or other paper ; products, can cause problems in the system, • Jerry Czarnecki • he said. Hastings City Manager i There is a crew to take care of sewer back- ' ups. but they arc only responsible for the J municipal sewer lines. If lhe problem occurs J in the sewer line of the property holder, it is • that arc time-sensitive,” he said. The approved amendment lo the first ordi­ not the city’s responsibility to fix the problem, • nance involved rezoning property at 1500 Star Czarnecki noted. Thc next city council meeting is scheduled ' School Road from D-2 lo the Meadowstone Planned Unit Development (PUD). for April 13. If the governor’s stay-home ; Thc other ordinance adopted involved a tax order gets extended, the meeting will take • exemption for a service charge in lieu of taxes place virtually. "Wc will be continuing to look at this plat- । for Kendall Place, a project for low-income persons and families. Kara Harrison-Gates of form or different platforms to get something a ' the Kendall Place team expressed her appreci­ little more polished," Czarnecki said. , ation during public comment. As far as other city boards and commis- ; "I would just like to thank you for your sions. the meetings have been postponed until • support of our project by passing the pilot after the executive order is no longer in effect. • ordinance and I want lo wish you all to stay The planning commission’s Monday, April well,’’ she said. 6. meeting is canceled due to lack of items on ( Council member Brenda McNabb-Stange the agenda. (The council must inform lhe ' raised a question regarding playground clo­ public of date changes about seven to 10 days • sure under lhe executive order. “I’ve seen a Ixifore’tlWdale change. - • number of places have taped off (he play­ ground equipment so kids aren’t going on one after another kind of thing." she said. Czarnecki said the closure of the play­ ground equipment is being considered. Council members Theresc Maupin-Moore and Al Jarvis, along w ith Mayor Tossava, also ♦ made comments. Zachary Alton Geroy. bom at Spectrum , “I think we are going to have lo finetune Health Pennock on February 17. 2020 to ; this thing a little bit." Tossava said. Aubrey Geroy and Steve Geroy. ♦♦♦♦♦ ,J "Thanks for setting this up, and make sure you guys wash your hands and don’t touch Cash Graccn, bom atSpectrum Health i your face," Maupin-Moore added. Pennock on February 18, 2020 lo Kori ’ "I have to go out and buy some toilet Bronkerna of Delton. ‘ ♦♦♦♦♦ « paper,” Jarvis quipped. After the meeting, that comment prompted I’xlilh Rae Bryson, bom at Spectrum Health « a reminder from Czarnecki: Pennock on February 20, 2020 to Calla "Materials other than toilet paper should Brxson and Jeremiah Bryson of Hastings. “Some [people] were doing both [platforms], so we had some overlap. Still, the amount of people was significantly higher than normal.” Newborn ^cibies^; CANADIAN RIVI -NOTICE­ 4.5,6,7 night crujses on-fhe St. Lawrence amToilawa rivers aboard the nostalgic replica steamboat CANADIAN EMPRESS .. Notice of Annual Meeting To Members of Hasting Mutual Insurance Company. Hastings, Michigan: Quebec City, Ottawa. Kingston departures Call now to request our travel brochure www.StUWfenceCruiseLines.com 1-800-267-7868 0N k7l 224 St. $>■» 2X -.-o. tY: K. A. MUELLER ACCOUNTING ^^Drociripnt’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Cap... 77...... mation line for Congress Notice is hereby given that the Annua! Meeting of Hastings Mutual Insurance Company will be conducted via conference call on Wednesday. April 8, 2020 beginning at 9:00 a.m.. due to lhe COVID-19 health situation. It you intend on participating, please call Debbie Kurtz (269-948-15381. The annua! meeting agenda includes a ballot for the election of the following Directors: Christopher J. Huke, John R. Kirschen and John L. Ward. BRING EVERYTHING ’ YQULOVETOGETHER! 221 South Jefferson Street \ Hastings, Michigan (269)945-3547 www.karnuelleraccounting.com Banner s19." 2-YEAR TV PRICE GUARANTEE alienate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Blazing Fast Internet! 190 CHANNELS Inc!udinq Local Channel’ CAIL TOPAZ for $ 100 Gi/t Cord 1-855-382-2485 Oh n mated to lhe interests of Burry County since 1856 ‘ P^.Mtbr. Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. <qr1 M M-43 Highway * Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 1J J f55 peases: ncws@fadgraphics.com • Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com News and press Frederic Jac°^s Publisher S CEO HaOk CFOUUrin9 will be available for Essential Sewing Supplies ^l(>n.-Sat. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. for curbside pick-upj bi advance for details. < • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT. Cl? /.Aid ads iKopM Monday ft30am io500pm G ’1 ScohOmmen TyGreenf.eld M.ko GJmore Colleen E0!oMoi) Jennie Yonker B n Subscription Rates: $45 per year in Bany Countv $50 per year in adjoining counties y $55 per year efsewhwe Brett Bremer Taylor Owens 6rafl Chandler POSTMASTER PO8o«iti« * HaM BT., Mi 40C*a Oloft Second C .im Postage Pa d a«IU>' "g->. 'Pray Tor Our Nation . rn askU’j L State St, it // ’ 945-9673 OP£N UxkMrlU Jn •>•••? • a m-x u. * ' '•» w JUi*1 Bulst Cleaners Pick-Up Station A yr. A AAA* L ol Hastings better water.Q pure ond simple/ SALT DELIVERY ROUTE DRIVER hiring immediately Full time with benefits: • Medical • Retirement Work for a local business offering great pay. Email resume to: rickidC?shcglobal,net or apply in person at Culligan Water Conditioning of Hastings 141 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. MI 49058 269-945-5102 �' Page 6 — Thursday. March 26. 2020 —• The Hasfcog^ Bannt* Worship Together 1 „«r lhe church of your choice ~ Weekly scheduler of Hastings area churches available for your coneemen^^ CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Pc*cr Adams, contact 616-690­ 8609. HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD |h74 S. State Rd., Hastings. MI 49058 Phone 269-945­ 2285. Sunday morning service time: 10 xm. with nursery and preschool available. LIFEGATE FREEPORT BAPTIST COMMUNITY CHURCH CHURCH 301 E State Rd., P.O. Box 380 County Line Rd.. 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Freeport, MI 49325. (269) Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 760-1928. Pastor Ron A 269-948-0900. Website: traditional style of worship, w'W'w.lifegatecc.com. Sunday no gimmicks, and friendly Worship 10 xm. Wednesday people welcome you lo Life Group 6:30 p.m. worship at "an old country church." Sunday School SOLID ROCK BIBLE 9:45 xm. Sunday Worship CHURCH OF DELTON 11 a.m. Sunday Evening 6 7025 Milo Rd.. P.O. Box p.m. Wednesday Bible 765, (comer of Milo Rd. Study and Prayer 7p.m. & S. M-43), Delton. MI Give us the pleasure of 49046. Paslor Roger meeting you! Claypool. (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service GRACE COMMUNITY 10:30 to II :30am. Nursery CHURCH and Children’s Ministry. 8950 E. M-79 Highway. Wednesday night Bible Nashville. MI 49073. Paslor study and prayer time 6:30 Don Roscoe. (517) 852­ to 7:30 pm. 1783. Sunday service lOatn. Fellowship Time before the ABUNDANT LIFE service. Nursery, children’s FELLOWSHIP ministry, youth group, adult MINISTRIES small group ministry, A Spirit-filled church. . leadership training. Meeting at the Maple Leaf HASTINGS HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 2920 S. M-37 Hwy. (M-37 at M-79) Pastor Kim Melzer. Phone 269-945-4995. hastingshopeumc.org hastingshopeumc& gmail. com. U? welcome YOU to join us on Sunday Mornings at 10:30 for worship! Find Us On Facehook! hastingshupeumc. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling. MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; SundaySchool 11 a.m.; SundayEvening Service 6 p.m.; Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. MCCALLUM UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH 5505 Olis Lake Rd., Delton. MI 49046. Phone: 269-623­ 8226. New pastor - Jerald Jones. Sunday Service: 10:31-11:46; Coffee Connection. Nursery, Children’s ministry. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIA INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service), 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). Thc Rector of Ss Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hustwick. The church phone number is 269-795­ 2370 and lhe rectory number is 269-948-9327. Our church website is www.samchurch. org. We are part ol the Diocese of the Great Lukes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. Grange, Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd.. Nashville. Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 xm., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s love. “Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616-731-5194. GREEN STREET UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green St., Hastings. Ml 49058. Rev. Bryce Feighner Office Phone: 269­ 945.9574. Email: office, greenstreetumef'f gmail.com. Sunday, Schedule - The Praise 9:30 xm. ; The Word 10 xnv, The Table 10:30 xm. Nursery Care is available through age 4; PrcK-8th grade Sunday School 10 a.m.; Sunday School for Adults al 11 a.m. Upright Revolt Youth Ministry' (6th-12th grades) 5:30-7:30 p.m. FREE Community Meal every Tuesday at 5 p.m. Refer to Facebook for weather conditions. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Malt Moser, Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday Schoo! for all ages; 10:30 xm. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30-8 p.m., AWANA (Children Kindergarten-5lh Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle Schoo! Youth Group: 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948­ 8004 for infonnation on Mi lT (Mothers in Training Together). Sports Ministries, Quilting. Ladies Bible Study. CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel­ chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 xm. Youth activities: call for information. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF HASTINGS Sharing Jesus with our community & thc world! 405 N. M-37 Hwy., Hastings, Ml 49058. (269) 945-5463. www.firstchurchhastincs. orp, 9 a.m. Classes and Gatherings for All ages; 9:45 a.m. Worship (Children’s Worship Offered); 10:45 a.m. Coffee Fellowship; 11:15 xm. Coffee Talk with Pastor Dan. Follow us on Facebook. WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland, Ml 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Kathy Smith. Sunday Worship 9:15 am HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of Who jesus Is To Thc World Around Us". 2635 N. M43 Hwy.. P.O. Box 8, Hastings. Telephone 269­ 945-9121. Email hastfmct'i gmail.com. Website: www.hast- Brian Teed, Student Ministries Director, Emma Miller, Wor­ ship Director, Martha Stoetze!. Sundays: Nursery and tod­ dler (birth through age 3) care provided. SUNDAY MORN­ ING FAMILY HOUR WEL­ COMES ALL AGES AND STAGES OF LIFE AT 9:30 aan. Deep Blue, Loving God, Loving Neighbor Preschool age 3-5th Grade. Live; 6th-!2th Grade. Adult Standard and Adult Elective classes. Coffee Talk: Fellowship Hall. Cookies at 10:05 xm. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. & Children’s Church age 4-lth grade dis­ missed during service. Youth Group at.6 p.m. 2nd Ihesdaj: Young Women’s Small Group, 6 p.m. Wednesday: Women's Bible Study 6:30-7:30 pm. KID'S CLUB: Feb. 5th-March 18th, 6:30-7:45 p.m. Thurs­ day: Adult Bible Study 10 am. For more infonnation please contact the church or follow us 4 on face book. GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover God's Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Worship services at 8 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Nursery available both services. Paslor Ken Scheck II. pastorkent'? gracehastings.org. Location: 239 E North St.. Hastings. 269-945­ 9414 or 945-2645, fax 269­ 945-2698. www.gracchaslings.org. Facebook: Grace Lutheran Church-ELCA Hastings, MI. Elaine V.T^nk ------ William Ellsworth Myers FITCHBURG, \yls _ William ...... Bill" Ellsworth Myers, nce 50 of Fitchburg. Wl passed away on Saturday, March 21,2020. at Agrace HospiceCare. He was bom on March 13. 1970, in Hastings the son of Max and Barbara (Thompson) Myers. Bill was the youngest of six children in a loving family, where he was spoiled by his parents and older siblings, and enjoyed a freedom to roam and explore with friends in his small town. 1 After graduating from Hastings High School in 1988, Bj|| attended Northern Michigan University, joining fellow film students in reviving Gonzo Media, a group committed to bringing independent and overlooked movies to campus. He graduated with a BA in Film in 1996. After college, Bill moved to the Washington DC area where he worked for International Data Products, followed by time as a service technician for MetroBook. He later moved to Baltimore, doing short stints at The Charles Theater (a job he loved) and a security firm (loved it less), before becoming administrative xssistant in research for GCRC at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Bill enjoyed his time in Baltimore surrounded by fellow film school graduates, independent filmmakers, and the special creative rhythm of the city. Having reconnected with college friend. Kim (Feldhusen) Myers, he married the fellow NMU alumna on an unseasonably warm fall day. September 5 , 2004, in Munising, on the shore of Lake Superior. Bill recently commented it remained in his mind ’the best day ever’. The newlyweds lived briefly in Negaunee, where Bill worked al TV6 WLUC in both master control and as an on-air news director. A house fire hastened a move to Green Bay, Wl near Kim’s family. While in Green Bay. Bill worked as an account manager at Benefit Advantage. De Pere. Wl, a position he held for ten years, before an exciting opportunity to assist his family in expanding Madison’s first dedicated commercial meadery, Bos Meadcry, located in Madison, Wl. Bill became manager and turned out to be an inspired and intuitive mead maker in his own right, responsible for creating some of lhe operation’s most popular meads: Citrus and Destroy, Fire Walk With Mead. Desert Session, and Moloko Plus. Bill was infamous for insisting on an organized bar and production area, and enjoyed his role supporting the vibrant live music community of Bos Mead Hall. He was a memorable figure behind the bar and wxs affectionately known as ‘Uncle Bill’ by many patrons there. Bill was also founding member of experimental synthesizer duo, The Blips, who had a stop in Madison last year on their ‘Vulgar Display of Technology’ Tour. Bill was known for his very quick wit and sense of humor. He was an animal lover and a baby whisperer. Bill loved to cook, was a natural in the kitchen, and loved going lo restaurants. He was an enthusiastic collector of vinyl, and Record Store Days were treated as national holidays. Once in a record store in Montreal, Bill bounced on a pretty springyold floor that needed basement shoring up. He said, ‘If I have to go, through the floor of a cool record store would be tine by me.’ Bill loved live music and made annual trips to several music/camping festivals each summer with friends, in addition to being a regular at local stages wherever he lived. Movies were very important to Bill, and he sought out both high an and championed pulpy, campy films that he found equally appealing. You might gel a disappointed shake of his head when he found out you had not seen something he considered essential viewing. Bill’s greatest legacy is that of a true friend to so many. Bill was effortlessly likable, hilarious, authentic, unique, and supematurally cool. He was a natural diplomat who brought people together, and if he became your friend, he wxs always your friend. In this spirit. Bill was a devoted and unshakeable Detroit Lions fan. He will be deeply missed on this earth. Bill is survived by his loving wife, Kim Myers; sister, Gayle Marsh. Edgewater. Fla.; brothers. Don (Karen) Myers. Hastings. David (Jane) Myers. Jackson. Dennis Myers, and Greg (Jeanne) Myers, Loveland. Colo.; father-in-law. David Feldhusen. Fitchburg, Wis.; sister-in-law, Rhonda Sitnikau, Green Bay, Wis.; adored nephews and nieces, Peter (Colleen Bos) DeVault; Thomas (Jennifer) De Vault, Kevin (Tara) De Vault; John (Connie) Marsh; Paul Marsh; Mary (John) Bowkus, Antosia Myers, Max (Sarah) Myers; Mitch (Karina) Myers; Melanie (Nick Schuster) McLeod; Erin (Freddie) Castillo and Petra Sitnikau; and several great nieces and nephews. He is further survived by his step-mother. Connie Kupris and her children; as well as many friends who were just like family. Bill was preceded in death by his parents. Max and Barb Myers; mother-in-law, Jacquelyn Feldhusen; brother-in-law, Doug Marsh; and step-sister. Brenda Kupris Cary'. If you wish lo honor Bill’s memory, please consider a donation to your local charity supporting Covid 19 displaced restaurant and bar employees or local musicians, or to Agracc HospiceCare. which very compassionately cared for Bill and his family in his final days. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonflt.com. Arrangements made by Gunderson Fitchburg Funeral & Cremation Care. 2950 Chapel Valley Rd.; (608) 442-5002 S Marriage licenses Jolene Marie Payne. Delton and Joshua Allan Shultz. Delton William Andrew Moody. Middleville and Jessica Lynn Ebels, Middleville Daniel Lxe Kauffman, Wayland and Jessica Lynn Riley. Wayland Courtney Marie Frost. Delton and Aaron James Heeg, Delton David Allen Nicholson. Delton and Heather Ann Hoffman, Battle Creek Ashley Marie Herich, Middleville and Israel Cstaellanos-Torres, Grand Rapids Madeleine Elaine Reed, Hastings and Chase Allen Snore, Hastings Justin Todd Ports. Hastings and Martha Ann Gibbons, Hastings LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN 5 TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT - FAMILY DIVISION COUNTY OF BARRY PUBLICATION OF HEARING for 2020-2021 Fiscal Year Case No. 20-9373-NA Monday, April 13,2020 6:30 pm Petition No. 20009849 TO Hastings Banner Monday,May 11.2020 6:30 pm Monday, June 8. 2020 6:30 pm Monday. July 13, 2020 6:30 pm Monday, August 10,2020 6:30 pm Monday, September 14,2020 6:30 pm Monday, October 12,2020 6:30 pm Monday, November 9.2020 6:30 pm Monday. December 14.2020 6:30 pm Monday. January 11.2021 6:30 pm „ NOTICE ro CTEDEnT0RCsRTh1T0RS c Ivey whohved aiPXi??8 T2?od8codenT Marine Barry County, U.chtmn^aJ’3,1 DnV0 2020 Thufe ,s 2?93? 49333 di«jd on J in-jary 25 Monday. February 8.2021 6:30 pm decedent’s ortn.. peisonal representative of the nave been issued ° v*horr‘ Otters of administration 07«^) MATTER Monday.March 15, 2021. .Budget Hearing 6:30 pm AH mevtin^h HopcTownship Hall, 5463 S M-43 Hwy, Hastings Ml 49058 Office phonc: 269-948-2464. Meeting minutes available at the Township office. 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945*9541 • t-ontuct the HU[. Deborah J^u >'<>PvTown> r,nt .’ disabilities al thc meetinganx'ih.nv upon 7 days ™ notice to th . 11 disabilities requinng 0F Acker. 2M r .n2 51h Ci,cu'! - Fan,i|y Drvision, before H<w> uu'i|Sl'°e’' ®Ult0 302’ Bastings. Ml 49058 belo.o Hon William M Doherty o’ S’ ’° “n a,,0rney a”d ,h° rt9h’ “ ° ORDERED Elaubetti that Neele reSU'1 'n te,mina,®n ol your 139447 a claims are noh,’-ed that ati dated March 23. i9gJ,0,iC C ,vey Trust Agreement of January onoA*” amended, irrevocable as Patented to M f°'eVer barred ufl*55 Df • Bath. Ml 48KOO J ,veY 1'470l Hamsrs’ey Weld) Rd Rudvn.d C BiCke!' 1,210 p»’e Trail Drive I,49780 or ^a.I Otte. 2444 months after date o’ nuhi 49333• v,'»m‘n four (4) Dated Ma[ch ib ^bl'Ca’'°'’teis Notrce Bc-rnaun McA,a (p^„M1 Gault Davpon. PC 253) ndl d Hoard by writing or calling the following: Iownsnipu r 269-94g 2^ p Qerk (deb 1vi^«e^l’9.re0a'dn9 Tmrn‘n“’'on ol Parental R.ghts 2^at^ad b* C0U'' on Tu6sda* AP"' 2'. parental rights a"n9 me meeting 2-nship Hastings 945-9554 sister. Maxine Ley da. Arrangements were entrusted to Lanuelund Family Funeral Homes Burial & Cremation Services, 622 S Burdick Street. Kalamazoo. Ml 49007. Due to thc Covid-19 Virus limitations m effect at this time, cremation has taken place and a celebration of Elaine’s life will lake place at a later date this year. For more details plexse refer lo hltps://www. Iangelands.com i Board Meeting Schedule This notice is cOmphancc with PA267 of 197b as amended (Open Meclmus An). ,YCLA4?7T1dA(l)and die Americans with Disabilities Act. (ADA). The Hot lownship B0Ura ^u(;rovide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services such is C ng‘"'‘(T'"’ “T being eon>iderjd 'at 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 97 years old. She was preceded in death by her husband. Gordon TenBrink; children. C hns and Juliann; brother. Duane Jarman, and Hope Township . WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, Ml 49058. Phone. 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday. 9.45 a.m. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: 1351 North M43 Hwy. Elaine Virginia (Jarman) TenBrink. of K il imazoo. went home to he with her Lord and family on March 16. 2020 al the age ot 13'°i HamersF>v nr 4an<p, c. Bickei TBath- M14880B 1ia10Wcstw„1;rcJTrusteo Otte. Co-Tru ‘! Rl‘dy«vd. Ml 49780 • 4P'ner-°-'<Mrd(1!av„teMN9333 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. March 26, 2020 — 3.10’? * al thc stories ' 0M ana columns on i i niswru in the fiastinas ' 7 than the unrfIV, Ih and pleased at l.,r families. 1 rc “ bun<;1' like prints f r j n(1( |lilVc y could all have cop,cS ‘ over (he original* The Nelson c„n,aas ^TURNING BflGK THE PAGES I Nelson sveiv early P"’" .S1 zc.d ? Cllunl>. Their privations “l’ds,‘lc.s was the““"’V new P»n of the *S tn Cni *!,nc *bat brought grandfather. D^'j ,'K',,o'>eofanumber of Baptists «ho' d -™ned as a group fn,„, Rhode Island > >» *£ area ln Berkshire County. Thts ^ m l had nil)icJ to call to defend the lont« from |hc British during the .War "> the Hattie of Bennington [Vennoni). JUst 50 ,nj|<;s ffom 4014 Comans were among early Yankee Springs settlers Nelson and Amanda Coman The following column from (he Sept. 13, 1984. Sim and .Vru.v was written by lhe late Norma Veldennan. Though born in Big Rapids, she enjoyed delving into lhe history of Barry County. Her “Down Memory Lane' was a regular feature in the Sun and ha. Veldennan often consulted local references, including descendants of early pioneers, or even others older than she who could recall early days. In the fall of 1984. Veldennan wrote several columns on pioneer residents of Irving. Thornapple and Yankee Springs townships. And each had an introduction, sometimes with a little back story and her folksy narration. Today we have another of our pioneer families. Mercedes French, in her article on the Prairie, (likely Scales Prairie in southwest Thomapple Township) mentioned the Comans and Bassetts as part of the Prairie pioneers, even if they were in Yankee Springs Township. When they arrived, the 16 townships that now comprise Barry County, were known as Barry Township, which was part of Kalamazoo, or St. Joseph. County. When lhe early settlers came, it was just land they liked, so they cleared and developed it. Boundaries came later tor those of us who needed specific addresses and streets. And of course, tor the legal descriptions necessary for a busy world. I became acquainted will-, Helen I Coman) and George Evans when 1 was trying to get information to build a topographical map of our area when the pioneers were here. I call them my historical godparents because when I need something cleared up — or located — I ask them, and up comes the answer. They’ve saved me so much reading and chasing. I’m forever grateful to them I lelen brought Marj Currier (her mom w as William Coman's daughter) when she was here from Florida. Marj brought an old tintype of the Coman family to show me. It was minus the mom, who had apparently died. ' You know how faded and hard to see the features are on most tintypes. This one was really quite good for a tintype, and of course, no one wants to loan a precious thing as that, let alone let it out of your hands. So. Marj generously went to the newspaper office with us. and they tried making a photo copy of it. They had never done a tintype before, and were not sure of the results. Wow. was the Traditional and Cremation Services Pre-Planning Services Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible Serving AU Faiths Pre-arrangeincnt Transfers Accepted 1 14 OffW"328 S,- Broadway« Hastings, MI 49058 JEV 269'945*3252 • www.glrrbachruncralhomc. Family Owned and Operated Sen ing Hastings. Barry County and Surrounding Communities for So years CITY OF HASTINGS PUBLIC NOTICE ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 584 The undersigned, being the duly qualified and acting Clerk of thc City of Hastings, Michigan, does hereby certify that nnniN ANGE NO. 584: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 90 OF THHASTINGS CODE OF 1970, AS AMENDED, BY AMENDING ARTICLE VI1-3, BV ADDING SECTION 90-697.10 AND SECTION 90-698.10. Cheshire, Ma*s- . , Nelson Conian • fa her. Richard, was one Of the selectmen tn Clieslnn:, and also was known as Capt- R|U>ard Coman. The Cotnan family in Cheshire was active in civic, church and school affatn- Uns enthusiasm Nelson Coman brought with him when he bought land in Michigan Territory. He first bought land in 1836 where Bedford of Calhoun County is now located. In the same year* he purchased land in Barry County, this land of oak openings was one mile and a half due south of the blockhouse on Scales Prairie where Indians, traders and travelers traversed the trails. Charles W. Bassett and Nelson Coman purchased adjacent land, and when townships were made in Barry County, their land was in Section 4 of Yankee Springs Township, just over the line Iron) Thomapple Township. Nelson Contan built his house and two barns on the northwest corner of the intersection of Shaw Like and Norris roads. He gave land for the Coman Cemetery, which is on Shaw Lake Road between Norris and Briggs roads. And in the past, the Coman School was on the southwest comer of Shaw Lake Road at Norris Road. This area was referred to as Coman’s Comers in the days before the roads were labeled by signs. J Bassett Lake, Bassett Creek and Bassett Like Road are names connected to his neighbor’s family.) After purchasing his land from the United States government. Nelson Coman returned to Ohio to teach school for a year. When he returned lo Barr}’County, he tarried for a time in the home of Charles Bassett. Coman soon built his buildings facing those of Charles Bassett, with the ribbon of {Norris) road running between, going, to the north and to the south. . .. 7 . \. ,, ' ' . ‘ ~' In Coman’s early days in Barry County, he walked each day to the young village of Middleville and taught school, being lhe second teacher in the village. This walk was four miles each way, sometimes through fourfoot-deep snowdrifts, and returning home each evening to tend to chores. On March 21. 1839, Nelson Coman married Amanda Betterly. She was the sister of Nancy Betterly who had married Charles Bassett. Amanda and Nancy’s father. William ’Betterly. had purchased land a half mile south on the north-south road in 1836. Amanda was bom Aug. 16. 1818, in Newfane. Vt.. in the Images of the Coman School are not available. The Prairie School in Thornapple Township, depicted in this illustration by Terry Noah, was about two miles from the Coman homestead. The Comans attended church at the Thornapple Township school every other Sunday. picturesque Green Mountains. There (in that town), as elsewhere in New England, were dazzling white painted churches with their tall steeples pointing heavenward. The William Betterly family had migrated from Vermont to Cayuga County. N.Y., before coming to Michigan. The Betterly family soon moved to Calhoun County and lived just southwest of Battle Creek, on land now a part of that city. In 1839. Coman threshed out some wheat upon the frozen ground. Near Barlow Lake. Judge Barlow had a fanning mill, so Coman carried lhe wheat there lo be gleaned, and on to Battle Creek to be milled into Hour. This entire process required him to be away from home for a week. In later times, he took a team, which could travel to Battle Creek in one day. and with an overnight stay, he could reach home lhe next day. In those days, wolves were plentiful, and at night they became more daring and howled through the night. Bears freely roamed the area. Il was late afternoon one day early in his settling here that Cqman went out to look for his cattle. In those early days, the oxen and other farm animals foamed at will until there was lime and material to build fences. Night came on suddenly,, and Coman had not yet located his animals. Wolves began to stalk him. Hurriedly, he found refuge up in a sturdy tree. As he did this, his cap fell to the ground below, and the wolyes tore it to shreds, 'rhe wolves remained to keep him company and made their music through the night as their shining eyes looked up toward him. As thc sun came up, the wolves receded into lhe shadows, and Coman proceeded to find his cattle and returned home. It was an anxious night for him and for his wife and family waiting. Elsewhere in the state several years later, Nelson’s brother Jerome Coman had a similar experience, but for him. the wolves had a feast and only scraps of clothing were ever found. It was a busy life for pioneer couples to grow and to keep food on lhe tabic for their large families and do lhe weaving and hand­ sewing for clothing and drying of foods for winter. Making the candles and soap and other necessary routine chores kept hands from becoming idle. Amanda Coman saved lhe liny doll-like bonnets she had made for MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 2020 GRAND REGION HERBICIDE PROGRAM The Michigan Department ol Transportation (MDOT) hereby provides notice to the public, including property owners adjacent to state highways. of the 20201 fcrbicide Application Program treatments for roadside rights of way within Mason, Lake, Osceola, Oceana. Newaygo. Mecosta, Muskegon, Montcalm, Ottawa, Kent. Ionia. Allegan, and Barry counties. SCHEDULED DATES OF APPLICATION: Application* will take place between April 2. 2020, and December 3,2020. ’ Non-Sclcctive Applications: (guardrail, pasementShoulder cracks and edges, barrier walls, concrete bridge slopes, invasive plants) ANY INDIVIDUAL OR COMBINAT IONS OF HIE HERBICIDES LISTED BELOW: Roundup Pro Concentrate (Glyphosate). Method 240SL (Aminocyc!opyr.icnlor)> plateau (Imazapic), Milestone (Aminopyrahd>. Escort XP (Mctsulfuron Methyl), Arsenal Powerline (Iniazapvr), Rodeo (Glyphosate), Esplanade 200 SC (Inda/itlaink I (Isoprupj lamine Salt of Imozapvr), Esplanade EZ (Inda/inain. Diquat, Glyphosate), Tclar XP (Chlorsulfuron). Selective Applications: (broadleaf weeds in turf areas, brush control, plant grosMh reguhtw. invasive plants) ANY INDIVIDUAL OR COMBINATIONS• <>HH! -.HERBICIDES LISTED BELOW, "cedar 64 (.,• ■p'chlorophcnoxy acetic Acid), Milestone (AminopSTJhd , Escort XP (Mctsulfuron Methyl), Tclar XP (Chlonsultunm), >iuilan (Tridopvr Choline, Acetic Acid. Choline SaU). Garlon 3A (lndop)r)t Element 3A (Triclopyr), Gurion 4 Ultra (Indopyr-.-Butoxycthy! Ester). Vista XRT (I luroxvpyr). Plateau (ImazapM m^pie (imazapic)i |\felhod 240SL' (Ammocyclopy nlor)t Krynitc S (Ammonium salt of fosaminc). Adjuvants: ^r!l^!'lrol. Water conditioning, surfactants) 4 -A <’ S .d.c^'d I’ohsaccharide Polymen). Nu-Film-IR “X,hc (Surfactant,proprietary combination cto. ..ndy muUin^). Emc .^(.quHaUant, humectant*. > acids), Inipiuvc (Nonionic). Condition (Ammonium Sul k),m so (Methylated Seed Oil Blend and ’uxul or injected for t.tell application. was adopted by the City Council of the City of Hastings at a regular meeting on Donol cnlirtrcatrdTrJJ™* initij the spray has dried. thc 23rd day of March, 2020. LQ2UAC11 All .’DDlU JtivD!) Will bv further itifomwtiiHh r a , r.his Ordinance is available for review at the office of the City cS rity Hall 201 Jiast State Street, Hastings. Monday through Friday, 8;00 AM to 5:00 PM. Jane M. Saurman Cil.V Clerk , by certified pwbcidsj applicators. I or h>m Kitcw, Resource Specialist Michigan Department of liansportatian VO Front Ase , N.W. yrand Rapids. Ml 49501 616-45|-H«8| her twin sons, Charles and George. With loving care, she had sewed with lucks and gathers the brown and white small checked woven cloth. Soon Yankee Springs Township had many settlers. Most farms were 40 or 80 acres, each with a house and bam. Nelson Coman was one of lhe 30 voters at lhe first Yankee Springs Town Meeting April 1. 1839, at the Mansion House I Yankee Bill Lewis’ stagecoach stop). At various times through the years. Coman served as supervisor, clerk, treasurer, and justice of lhe peace. He also was a school inspector and a grand juror. And he was a trustee of First Baptist Church of Thomapple when it was organized April 12.1856, in the old Prairie Schoolhouse on Scales Prairie. In later years, the congregation met on alternating Sundays at the Prairie School and in Middleville before permanently meeting in Middleville. Amanda Coman transferred her membership there by letter July 3, 1853, when that church was forming. Nelson and Amanda Coman raised a family of seven children: Celestin, Lucinda. Phebe. Mary. William Charles and George, (the last two being twins). Later, their household also included a granddaughter after Celestia’s brief marriage. In his final years, his physical body weakened, Nelson Coman died April 30, 1883, from a stroke, 18 years after Amanda had been laid lo rest [in 1865 at age 46) in the Coman Cemetery around the comer and down thc road a piece from their home. There also lie two of their daughters, Lucinda [died in 1866, age 23) and Phebe [33, a schoolteacher, died in 1877), these three having died of consumption [tuberculosis). (William Coman, 1849-1918, also is buried there.l IVfr/i strength of an eager and youthful man He came with vigor and tamed the land. Gave of his talent and his love To neighbor, family and God above. Little to see of his labors remain His mark is with God, who stays the same Helen (Coman) Evans NOTICE The minutes of the meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners held March 17, 2020, are available in the County Clerk’s Office at 220 W. State St., Hastings, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or www.barrycounty.org. CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS Street Surface Improvements Crack and Chip Sealing The City of Hastings is soliciting bids for the sur­ face improvements of city streets in Hastings, i . The Bid Documents will be available at Hastings City Hall starting Monday, March 23. 2020. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregular.hes m he bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City's best interest, price and other fac­ tors considered. Bids will be received at Hastings City Hall. 201 East State Street. Hastings. Michigan 490o8 until ‘>•00 PM on Thursday, April 16. 20-0 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Bids will be clearly marked on the outside of the ubmittal package - “SEALED BID STREET SURFACE IMPROVEMENTS". J his notice is publhLt. , of I9‘M, a. amended R^uUion 637 Act No 4 M. Public Acts Malt Gergen Director of Public Services 139160 �Page 8 — Thursday. March 26,2020 — The Hastings Banner * Watson Drain District pumps stay on ■ Drain tw District opportunity to voice — their opnuons on the pmjL? So they jn5< intend to rescind their rcqUesJt ’ 7 Unless a member of thtf public comes forW’trd with a specjflc for the public hearing thc pr0jCci - qJd bc able to move forward as scheduler] U pr?Cc«ding forward with everylnn’ cn8’n*cr Brian Cenci said. “We hX'«;.eo,,cnoi'fp^ic",,dce’so,hai’s level for Crooked Lake Was down about 2 Luke Ftonchcck Staff Writer The pumps arc running in thc Watson Dram■ District, Barry' County Drain Commissioner or high water, those pumpsi will stay on.” Dull said, no pun ’nte^L Thai flooding is a direct threat to public h«duv Because of the governor s stay-at-home order, many of the projects Du"^ working on will have to be pushed back until the order is lifted. r ,4It’ll kick all of our jobs bock a few weeks,” he said. . Even though he doesn t like the_ fact tha most of that work will grind to a halt. Dull said he isn’t going to get the county m trouble I»U »id the water been getting calls from people saying they are pretty happy.” Dull said. Because there is no measurement system set up on Cloverdale Ukc. Dull said he s unsure how much water has come off that ,aBut he does know that there has been enough water removal to get it off M-43 Despite lhe work stoppage, Dull and his team will still bc able to move forward with some aspects of lhe Watson Drain Project. Because the novel coronavirus is putting a halt to any gatherings. Dull and his team have opted to bypass a public hearing of their per­ mit application and send out public notices, They were lhe ones who requested the pub­ lic hearing to give the members of the Watson '?nnhr|ia0"-idcr lhis an emergency.” 1,0 P"bl'h,(lcar"’8 will take place before lake levels on Cloverdale and Long lakes will be But Dull is saying tha| |he pumps on Cloverdale and Crooked lakes will remain on: “If there s a health issue to do with waler, wc re going to tackle it? Thornapple Twp. residents announce bids for township, county offices Greg Chandler Staff Writer Thomapple Township will have a new supervisor next year as well as a new commis­ sioner to represent the township on lhe Barry County Board. Mike Bremer, who has been the township supervisor the past eight years, will not seek re-election since he will soon be moving out of the township. .“I’m meetinged out,” Bremer said after Monday’s township board meeting. “I’m building a home in Irving Township, my retirement home, and thai’s going up this summer.” At that meeting, County Commissioner Dan Parker announced he would run for lhe Thomapple Township supervisor’s job. Parker becomes the second candidate to enter the supervisor’s race, joining Eric Schaefer, a former manufacturing engineer whose family operates the Indian Valley Campground. “My heart is in this area. I’ve raised four kids in this area,” said Parker, who is on his second stint as a commissioner, totaling eight years. “’They all went to school here. They’re good people, and I think I can be of help here.” on the Middleville village planning commis­ sion. She also formerly chaired die TAPRC board before becoming its program director and chaired the Barry County Parks and Recreation board. “I feel like this a great opportunity to con­ tinue to serve my community as an elected official at the county commission level,” Getty said. “I am very excited to take this next step in sen ing lhe community that I love.” Getty, a Republican, has filed her paper­ work for her candidacy at the county clerk’s office. She is one of two candidates who have filed for the District 2 board seat. The other is Cody Hayes, a Democratic candidate from Middleville. Hayes works at Harding’s Market (formerly Middleville Marketplace) and is pursuing a master’s degree in ministry at Kuypcr College in Grand"Rapids. He has also been a youth leader at Thomapple Valley Church, according to his website. District 2 takes in the western half of Thomapple Township, the northern half of Yankee Springs Township and the village of Middleville. The deadline for candidates to file for township and county offices is Tuesday. April Parker also previously served for 12 years on the Thomapple Kellogg Board of Education, five as its president. He said he was approached by several people about run­ ning for supervisor after Bremer decided not to seek rc-election. Schaefer has served on the township board of review for the past three years. He worked for 28 years at LDI IncJETO Magnetic Corporation, an automotive parts manufactur­ er in Grand Rapids. “I’m very interested in the township, and I think it needs a strong leader after Mike Bremer leaves.” Schaefer said in a telephone interview Wednesday. “I think thc township is on a good path, and I’d like to keep it on the same path.” Later at Monday’s meeting, Catherine Getty, the township’s zoning administrator and program director for the Thomapple Area Parks and Recreation Commission, announced she would run for Parker’s District 2 county board seat. She has been j.oning administrator for 10 years and TAPRC program director for five years. . Getty has held a variety of positions in local government over the past two decades, including serving as zoning administrator and Provit M Domenico, AAMbo Jim Lundin 450 Meadow Run Dr^fte 100 Mcn»l«r SIK Hastings* Ml 4 2169 W.M-43-Hwy., Suite A Hastings, Ml 49058 (269)818-0423 (269) 946-826j -3 Know the four uses of casn yourself this money is for one it’s important to have cash available for your everyday spending and the inevitable rainy day. However, you also need to develop a cash strategy that can contribute to your long­ term financial success. But just how much cash do you need? And in what form? To answer these questions, it’s useful lo look at lhe four main uses ofcash: • Everyday spending - Your everyday spending includes lhe cash you use for your mortgage, utilities, groceries and so on. ?\s a general guideline, you should have one lo two months of living expenses available during your working years, and perhaps a year’s worth of living expenses when you’re retired. (Thc latter can be adjusted higher or low­ er based on y our income from Social Security or a pension.) You’ll need instant access lo tliis money’ - and you need to know your principal is protected - so it may be a good idea to keep tile funds in a checking or cash management account • Unexpected expenses and emergencies - If you needed a major car repair or a new fur­ nace, or if you incurred a big bill from a doctor or dentist would you be able to handle the cost? You could - with an established an emergency fund. During your working years, this fund should be big enough to coyer three to six months of living expenses; when you’re retired, you may be able to get by with one to three montlts’ worth ol expenses, assuming you have additional sources of available cash. You’ll want your emer­ gency fund lo be held in liquid vehicles dial protect your prin­ cipal, such as savings or money market accounts or short-term certificates of deposit (CDs). • Specific’ short-term savings goalfs) - At various points in jour life, you may have a spe­ cific goal - a new car, vacation, wedding, etc. - that you’d like to reach within a year or two. Your first step is to identify how much money you'll need, so dunk about all die factors affect­ ing the final cost. Next, you’ll need to choose an appropriate savings vehicle. You could simply put more money in the accounts you use for every day cash, or even in your emergency fund, but you would run lhe risk of dipping into either of these pools. Instead, consider open­ ing a separate account - and tell on Use cash in iw» W’ “ “artofyourovenll investment strategy. First, cash can bc con­ sidered part of the fl\ed'"’^i'"t allocation of your portfolio (u. bonds and CDsl- Been use c^t behaves dilfercntly from other asset classes - such as stocks and bonds- it can help diversi­ fy your holdings and thc mere diversified you are. the less im­ pact market volatility mas have on your portfolio- (However, diversification can’t guarantee a profit or protect against all losses.) The second benefit ol cash, in terms of investing, is it’s there for you to purchase a new investment or to add more shares in an existing investment. In any case, you probably don’t want to be t<vo cash heavy, so you might want to keep no more titan 10% of your fixed-income assets in cash. As you can see, cash can be valuable in several ways use it w isely. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Hnancial Advisor. EdwardJones. Member SiPC Choral For City Hall * * * * * notice* * * * * society IN ORDER TO SAFEGUARD THE HEALTH OF THE CITY OF HASTINGS RESIDENTS, OUR STAFF, AND GUESTS, CITY HALL WILL CLOSED TO ALLOW THE LIMITING OF STAFF UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. 35th gala anniversary YOU MAY MAKE PAYMENTS IN THE DROP BOX (NORTH SIDE OF BUILDING) OR ONLINE USING THE CITY WEBSITE (www.hastingsmi.org) reunion PLEASE CALL 269-945-2468 WITH ANY QUESTIONS *****NQ'riCE***** WITH THE GOVERNOR’S EXECUTIVE ORDER 2020-21 (STAY AT HOME ORDER), AND RESIDENTS SPENDING MORE TIME AT HOME THE CITY WOULD LIKE TO REMIND RESIDENTS THAT YOU CAN PREVENT SEWER BACKUPS BY ONLY FLUSHING TOILET PAPER DOWN THE TOILET. WIPES THAT ARE LABELED AS FLUSHABLE OR ANY OTHER PAPER PRODUCTS CAN CAUSE ISSUES IN THE SYSTEM. PLEASE DISPOSE OF THESE IN THE TRASH. CITY OF HASTINGS PUBLIC NOTICE ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 585 The undersigned, being the duly qualified and acting Clerk of lhe City of Hastings, Michigan, does hereby certify that ORDINANCE NO. 585: AN ORDIN ANCETO ALLOW PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION FOR KENDALL PLACE APARTMENTS PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF THE STATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY ACT OF 1966 (1966 PA 346, AS AMENDED, MCL 125.1401, ETSEQ). was adopted by the City Council of the City of Hastings at a regular meeting on lhe 23rd day of March, 2020. o G 'Hie Lakewood Area Choral Society is cel­ ebrating its 35th anniversary season. Concerts and events are planned, throughout the year, including a reunion of current and former members and their spouses. Since thc choir was formed in 1986, more than 600 singers from West and Mid-Michigan have been on thc active roster. To celebrate this milestone, lhe choir will host a gala reunion in the third-floor ballroom of the Walldorff Brewpub and Bistro. 105 E. State St., Hastings, Saturday, May 16, begin­ ning at 5 p.m. Heavy hors d’oeuvres and non-alcoholic beverages, including soft drinks, will be provided. A cash bar also will be available. Music and karaoke will be pro­ vided by Joe LaJoye. Current and past members and spouses are invited to attend and share stories as well as to reflect on thc camaraderie of choir member­ ship. A video compilation will ** premiered, and attendees will receive a copy of a com­ memorative anniversary booklet created by LACS charter member and historian Paul Quigley. The evening also will include sharing of personal memories and highlights of previous concert (ours, special concerts and rehearsals, ns well as introductions of past LACS presi­ dents. accompanists a„d current charter and emeritus members. Current or former LACS member are invit­ ed to attend this evenin„ of celebration. The cost is $15 per peRon g gb|e at the door. Reservations are required and due no later than I nday, May । ncserva<i°ns maF *H' emailed to Joanic n.ter lacsmusicGgniail. co„>. or by calling p, 'exting her. 269-967/ O« j-pplications"};^ fiSS Clerk at City Hall, 201 East Slate Street, Hastings, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Jane M. Saurman City (Jerk Dr. Universe: How do you make submarines? Luke, 5, Western Washington Dear Luke. The next lime you’re in the bathtub, turn a cup upside down on the water. Push down on it as hard as you can. See if you can get it to sink below the water. It’ll be difficult to do. Air inside the cup makes it lighter than the water. But what happens if you turn the cup on its side, allowing water to rush in? You’ll see it’s easier to push underwater. Those same basic forces make a submarine work. That’s what I learned from Ian Richardson, an engineer at Washington State University. He is curious about how liquids and solids interact. He has even helped NASA work on a submarine to someday go to Titan, one of Saturn’s moons. Buoyancy describes an object’s ability to float. It’s key to making a submarine. “It’s pretty easy to gel something to sink and easy to get something to float,” Richardson said. “To gel something to stay in the mid­ dle of a liquid is very challenging.” Ships float because they’re full of air. Air is lighter than the water around them. But submarines dive and rise. They’re able to do this because they control their weight using a combination of water and air. Ballast tanks are the secret. These special containers sit inside the submarine and con­ trol its buoyancy. “These tanks either let water in or they blow water out with air. and thai’s how they control their buoyancy. They dive or sur­ face based on how much water is in their ballast system,” Richardson said. When air enters, the submarine gets lighter and rises. But when the tanks fill with water, the sub­ marine becomes heavier and sinks. Other parts of a submarine’s design are important.as well. Special parts create oxy­ gen for passengers to breathe. The inside temperature slays steady to protect sensitive technology inside. And they’re usually made of strong metal, like steel or titanium. Make your own submarine Maybe someday you’ll help design these important features. Until then, you can make your own miniature submarine. All you need is an empty plastic bottle, four heavy coins, a flexible straw, and tape. First, have a grown-up help you make holes in lhe bottle: three on its side, and one in its cap. Screw the cap on. These holes will allow waler and air into your subma­ rine. Next, tape the coins next to lhe row of holes in lhe side. Two should go near the top of lhe bottle, and two near lhe bottom. They 11 make (he submarine heavier, but keep it balanced. Now, take your flexible straw and pul it in the hole on the bottle’s cap. Make sure the straw is pointed up. so it will stick out of lhe water. When you’re ready to test your subma­ rine set „ m water. As water enters, you’ll see the submarine sink. Hut if you blow into the straw, air gets pushed inside. The sub­ marine rises. *?°n yr°“ 11 rci,dy ,o exPlorc ,he f" reaches of your bathtub. Happy experimenting. » ^r- Universe >ou have a question? Ask Dr w i nsiti, askdrumversex ont. Applicants sought for Sue Drummond arts, music scholarships A complete copy of this Ordinance is available for review at the office of lhe City L-/WI Financial FOCUS. JC J Applications ar ^Ual art$’m.<ents who will I*’ in ninth-12th >”osl County school the foi^.^des at * ”arr> ? Scholarships ar^^Ti hased on student merit and financi * ‘’warded b-1 need. Proposed study must be at an accredited school, such as Interlochen or Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp. Scholarship funds are not intend­ ed for private lessons or for the purchase of instruments or supplies. Students may request up to 75 percent of thc .cost. of their program., . Applicants must complete lhe online application: submit supplemental application material (such as a short performance video or sample portfolio), and submit a reference le.Kher Or private mki ■ b," ‘:S'''l’n;d (an ’’’" applicants also lnust p.lr Sck;C'e‘1 m person audit,ou amia bne' Application are due ly-f yrs < Audition notil'ic-atio! J P m-April 13. 27-ft>lk>«ed by am ? April Community, tnn, 1. MaJ U <he Barn Award re'‘ * ,menl Center May. kv,P,ems udj nori]]ed in mid �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. March 26, 2020 — Page 9 Parsons among KCC ballplayers earning I conference accolades Lexi Parsons, a 2019 Delton Kellogg Hich School graduate, earned Honorable Mention A||-Westem Conference playing for ,he Kellogg Community College Women’s Basketball team this season in thc Michigan MCCXV1’'' CO,ICgC Alh,Clic Ass°™fion , ; t . Approvsd P7^cclvod and put Ocpt. reports rw° 46 pnt n File Motion to adjourn Respectfully subm^ Anita S. Mennell-C- Attested to by Jim Brown - Supcrv NOTICE to c^°^S: doMdent, Deborah Kay Sherman, doctased. died December Lexi Parsons fifth place in the MCCAA Western. statewide continue to offer free notary ser­ vices by appointment. Appointments can be made at Michigan.gov/SOS or by calling 888-SOS-MICH. Once notarized, applica­ tions may be submitted by mail or at secretary of state offices. More information ;ind the updated appli­ cant profile can be viewed at RedistriclingMichigan.org. Residents with questions should email Redistricting<& Michigun.gov. Offices offering phone online service only ask. • Should refer to the online Geld office loca­ tor, which includes specific information about how to directly contact a local office, if their Social Security business cannot be conducted online. Staff at local offices still will be able to provide critical services to help apply for ben­ efits, answer questions, and provide other services over the phone. • Will receive a call you to handle an appointment over the phone instead, if they already have an in-office appointment sched­ uled. Those who have a hearing scheduled, will be conLictcd to discuss alternatives for continuing with the hearing, including offer­ ing a telephonic hearing. The telephone call may come from a private number and not from a U.S. Government phone. Anyone receiving a call is reminded that Social Security employ­ ees will not make threats or ask for any form of payment. ■ May call 8OO-772-I213 (TTY 800-325­ 0778), if they cannot complete Social Security business online. This National 800 Number has many automated service options that can be used without waiting to speak with a tele­ phone representative. A list of automated tele­ phone services is available online at socialse­ curity .gov/agency/contacl/phoneJitml. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL.- The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: Alt kJ .Jsrn.t.n; «•’ Ac! ;.r.d tbc Muhipn ( !»•! * which .r'.'eunrly msir H HlO-1 ' ad.nux r"• !"' ■ dtsfnnpiwbati ,-'c| ’,o'‘rn.f: lunJ»™P I"”* »/l IntrtkiHin. tn 31 > Services BELLS CONSTRUCTIONJS years experience. Dry walk painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements. Discount for Seniors & Vet269-320-3890. _ J1* MATT ENDSLEY, FA BRICATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets bale spears, He. Call 269-801-7506 Nm.Iu. st f’.s Lxludcs Ch Id-tn Ihti rzrv.-i-rxr w.l! ro'. »icp wht-rw rfc’ ,,M ’7. Hus incss Services BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Julip Pop)ar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's cump. Fetterlev l-<Wng, (269)818-7793 18 2019 Creditors of the notified that all claims against the 05” h*ld be forever barred unless presented to ju-un bhenman, personal representative, or to ino probate court at 206 W. Court Street, Ste. 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and tho personal representa ivo within 4 months after tho date of publication of this notice. Vamum LLP „ Christopher J. Caldwell P64W8 Bridewater Place - P.O. Box 352 Grand Rapids, Ml 49501 (616) 336-6000 Justin Sherman 251 Shore Havon Drive St Grand Rapids, Ml 49546 (616)482-9656 •»c ’ Iwch) ,d.,.vKa ... au ft**-* ’ Ut H.,rCcnur 4 6.<»-»l'It* HUD toll Jrr< iclrpl-i/ne OXbewMtr.mjs .rd k I ,r Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads 139532 Synopsis Hope Township Public Hearing 4 Regular Township Board Meeting March 16, 2020 Special meeting opened at 6:30 pm Amended agenda approved Budget Public Hearing opened at 6:35pm No Comments were made Public hearing closed at 6:38 pm 2020-2021 Budget adopted. Regular meeting opened at 6:36 pm Approved: Consent agenda Resolution 2019-5 Depositories for Hope Township public monies Resolution 2019-6 Designate Primary Bank Depository Resolution 2019-4 Treasurer’s Tax Motions Resolution 2019-7 2019-2020 Township Board Meeting schedule Resolution 2019-3 General Appropriations Act Library Grant Payment of bills through March 31, 2020 Cemetery contract renewal Zoning Board ofa Appeals appointments Planning Commission appointment SWBCSWA Resolution for name change Adjourned 7:12 pm Submitted by: Deborah Jackson, Clerk Attested to by Mark S. Feldpausch, Supervisor 139262 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961. 1961 PA 236. MCL 600.3212. that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a safe of tho mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a pubic auction salo to tho highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM. on Apnl 23. 2020 The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sate. Placing tho highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle tho purchaser to freo and dear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this informationName(s) of the mortgagor(s): Rita M Bates, Surviving spouse Original Mortgagee Financial Freedom Senior Funding Corporation, A Subsidiary of IndyMac Bank, F.S B. Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Bank of New York Metlon Trust Company. NA as Trustee for Mortgage Assets Management Senes I Trust Date of Mortgage July 25,2007 Date of Mortgage Recording: August 6,2007 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $92,816.71 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Irving, Barry County, Michigan, and de»cnbed as: That part of tho Southeast 1/4 of Section 31. Town 4 North. Range 9 West Irving Township. Barry County. Michgan. desenbed as; Commencing at lhe South 1/4 comer of said section; thence North 00 degrees and 00 minutes West 2303.95 feet along ™ West lino of said Southeast 1/4 to a point which is South 00 degrees 00 minutes East 330.0 foot from the Center of said Section 31; thence North 69 degrees 54 mmutes East 385.17 feet along the North line of Church Street to the place of beginning Of this description menco North 00 degrees 27 minutes 15 seconds West 165 0 feet along the East line of Race Street, thence North 89 degrees 54 minute* East 132.0 feet; thenco South 00 degrees 27 mmutes 15 seconds East 165 0 to North Ine of Church Street; thenco South 89 degrees 54 minutes West 132 0 feet to tho piece Of beginning Common street address (if any) 5453 w Jr. R . Hastings, Ml 49058-9787 ’ The redemption penod shall be 6 month5 from tha date of such salo. unless dc.ermin^ abandoned m accordance with MCL 6003241a. * rf Property Is used for agncuitura. purposes as defined bv MCL 600 3240(16). y If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Juecature Act of 1961 pursuant to MCL 600 3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buy* pr0Dertv a. mortgage foreclosure sate of to th, mortg^hXcr for damaging the property during the rWen^n Attention homeowner If you affe g member on active duty, if your pe{!0(J f ^dutv has concluded less tnan 90 days ag0. * duty has ordered to active duty, ptoaw cont^ y°u lhe party foredosing tho mortg^ ^mey to number stated in th-s notice ttjdtr, 139497 STATtOPM'CH’Q^ PR°BATE COURT COUNTV OFBARry NOTICE J?REDrrORS Docodcrrt’s Estate RLEN0.20-28479-DE Estate of Deborah Kay Shennan. Deceased. SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS All local Social Security offices arc closed to the public for in-person service as of March 17. This decision protects the population it serves - older Americans and people with underlying medical conditions - and employ­ ees during the CO VID-19 pandemic. However, staff members arc still able to provide critical services. Online services remain available at socialsecurity.gov. Local offices also will continue to provide critical services over the phone. The agency is working closely with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, state and local governments and other experts to monitor COVID-19 and will let lhe public know as soon as in-person service can resume. Those who need help from Social Security: • First, should use the secure online services available at socialsecurity.gov/onlincservices. Individuals may apply for retirement, disabili­ ty and Medicare benefits online; check the status of an application or appeal; request a replacement Social Security card; print a ben­ efit verification letter; and more — from any­ where and from any device. Information is available online to answer most of Social Security questions, without having to speak with a Social Security representative in person or by phone. Answers to frequently asked questions can be found at soctalsecunly.gov/ March 17,2020 Sevcn con:'"1 a:’en,i;> “*>13 App'°''^ «rM>l inslai^lon Approved sires''S(bin3 Citizens may apply i redistricting commission seat More than 3.590 notarized applications have been processed for the Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission, and thou­ sands more have been received. Thc applicant profile has been updated at RedistrictingMichigan.org. It continues to show applications from people across the state and of all backgrounds. Applications will be accepted through June I. Since all applications must bc signed in the presence of a notary, secretary of state offices SYNOPSIS to order at 7: 0q p n. Meeting ^'^Jl^bers present, ‘ Parsons was one of three Cougars among the conference s postseason honorees announced earlier this month. Freshman teammale Audrey DeWaters from Gull Lake was named to the MCCAA All-Western Conference third team and the MCCAA All­ Western Conference All-Freshman Team Sophomore Jessalynn Genier from Battle Creek Lakeview earned MCCAA All-Western Conference second team honors. The Cougars were 16-14 this winter, up from just six wins the previous year. Parsons averaged 12 points and 6.2 rebounds a game in her first collegiate season plajing in 25 games. -I could not be more proud of these three Bruins.” KCC head women’s basketball coach Die Doumanian said. -’They earned every one of the honors, which are well-de­ served.” The KCC women’s basketball team wrapped up regular season play in February at Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notion Is g’von under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600,3212,-' This notice is from a debt coife-^ Date of notice- March 5 2020 Trott Law. PC. 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Suite 145 Farmington Hills. Ml 46334 (248)642 2515 1412218 (03-05X03-26) ine tefepnone Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 cf the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600 3212. that lhe lo'lowing mortgage w»'l be foreclosed by a safe of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction salo lo the highest bidder for cash or cash.eris chock at tho p'aco of ho<d»ng tho circuit court in Barry County, start-ng promptly at 1:00 PM, on April 9. 2020. Thc amount duo on tho mortgage may be greater on tho day of sale. Placing tho highest bld st lhe safe doos not automatically entitle tho purchaser to freo and dear ownership of tho property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a foe for this information: Name(s) of tho mortgagors): Joseph J. Rodriguez and Kimberty S. Rodriguez husband and wife Original Mortgagee- Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): NewRez LLC dba Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing Date of Mortgage: November 26.2012 Date of Mortgage Recording: December 3,2012 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $62,634.69 Description of tho mortgaged premises; Situated in Village of Nashville. Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Lot 69 of tho Village of Nashville, according lo the plat thereof, as recorded in Uber 1 of Plats on Pago 10 Common street address (if any): 223 N Queen St, Nashville, Ml 49073-9323 The redemption period shall bo 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determ ned abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If tho property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of tho Revised Jud.cature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will bo held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact tho attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated In this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: March 12,2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248)642-2515 138605 1412460 (03-12X04-02) NOTICE Daniel J. Sweda & Associates, PLLC 21650 West Eleven Mile Road. Sto. 200, Southfield Ml 48076. Attorneys. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR YEAR. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 248-973-8737. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE BY ADVERTISEMENT -Default has been made in the conditions of a Mortgage granted by Stanley S. Lawrence and Linda K. Lawrence, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s). to Associates Home Equity Services, Inc., as mortgagee, dated September 11, 2000 and recorded on September 21, 2000 in Liber Instrument No. 1049805 Page 1, Barry County Records, Ml, and assigned by an assignment of mortgage to AJ Capital Ventures LLC, as assignee, as documented by an assignment of mortgage recorded on May 30,2019, in Instrument Number 2019-005191, Barry County Records, Ml, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due as tho date hereof Ninety Nino Thousand Nino Hundred Thirty Four and 77/100 Dollars ($99, 934.77), plus interest, late foes, and attorney’s fees, each of which continues to accrue. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute In such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a salo of the mortgaged promises, or some part of them. Notice of foreclosure by advertisement. Notice is hereby given under section 3212 of the revised judicature ah of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that tho following mortgage will be foreclosed by a salo of tho mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction safe to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding at tho circuit court in Barry County. Ml starting promptly at 01:00 PM on April 23, 2020. The amount due on tho mortgage may bo greater than tho dato of the safe. Placing tho highest bld at the sale does not automatically entitlo the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title Insurance company either of which may charge a fee for this information. Said premises are located in Barry County, City of Battle Creek, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: A parcel of land In the Southeast V* of Section 34, Town 1 North, Range 8 West described as: Beginning at a point in the center line of State Highway M-37, which point is 27 rods North along the center line of said Highway from tho South line of said Section 34; thence East 493 feet; thence North 2 degrees 52 minutes East 99.1 feet; thence West 494.5 feet to tho center line of said highway; thence South along center lino of said highway to the place of beginning. Property Address: 15895 South M-37 Hwy., Battle Creek, Ml 49017 Tax ID 09-034-012-00 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the dato of sale, unless determined abandoned In accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, in which case tho redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such safe or 15 days from the MCLA 600.3241a(b) notice, whichever Is later or extinguished pursuant to MCLA 600.3238. If tho above referenced property is so’d at a foreclosure sale, under MCL 600.3278. the borrovrer wnl bo responsible to tho person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure safe or to the mortgage holder for damaging tho redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS. This safe may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any. shall tJUlted solely to tho return of thc b.d arnoun tendered at sale, plus interest. Tho purchaser Jia I no forthar Recourse against the Mortgagor the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee's Canital Ventures LLC Dated March 23, 2020. Daniel J Sweda & Associates. PLLC. Attorneys for Mortqagea/Assignoe. 21650 West Eleven M.fe Road. Sto. 200, Southfield Ml 48076. Phone 2- 8­ 937-8737. (03-26)(04-16) 138446 139-176 that tbo follow.ng mortgage will be foreclosed by a sole of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court rn Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM. on April 16, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day ol, sale. Placing tho highest b d et the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ’ ownership of lhe property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which' • may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagors): Michael R. Bernier and Sandra K. Bernier, husband and wife Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic . Registration Systems, inc., as r.om'nee for fender ’ and fender’s successors and/or assigns Foreclosing Assignee frf any): The Bank of New York Mellon, F/K/A The Bank of New York os trustee for registered Holders of CV/ABS, Inc., Asset-Backed Certificates, Senes 2005-9 Date of Mortgage: June 30, 2005 Date of Mortgage Recording: July 14, 2005 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $141,597.72 Description of the mortgaged promises: Situated in Township of Thomaop'e, Barry County, Michigan., and described as: Lot 5, Thornapp’e Bend Estate as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, on Page 35. Common street address (If any): 8714 B'g Bend Ct. Middleville. Ml 49333-8228 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such safe, unfess determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or, If the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure safe under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure safe or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner. If you are a military service • member on active duty, if your period of active duty . has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated In this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: March 19,2020 . Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1413324 (03-19)(04-09) 139041 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by ’ a sate of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder ; for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding ? the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM. on April 9, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitlo the purchaser to freo and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title Insurance company, either of which may charge a fee . for this infonnation: Name(s) of the mortgagors); Salite Emert, an I unmarried woman Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic * Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/or assigns 1 Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Ragstar Bank • Date of Mortgage: August 20,2018 Date of Mortgage Recording: August 22.2018 ; Amount claimed due on date of notice: $264,543.98 . Description cf the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and ; described as: Beginning at the 1/4 Comer common ! to Sections 22 and 23, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, thence North 00 degrees 10 minutes 32 seconds 1 West, 1319.33 feet along the Section line common to Sections 22 and 23, thence South 89 degrees 52 : minutes 14 seconds East, 274.67 feet along the North Imo of the Southwest 1/4 of tho Northwest 1/4 of said; Section 23, thenco South 43 degrees 43 minutes 30 ’ seconds East. 456.56 feet, thenco South 06 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds West, 696.33 feet to the) true Point of Beginning, thence North 89 degrees • 52 mmutes 29 seconds West, 220.00 feet, thence . South 06 dogreos 21 minutes 17 seconds West, 200.00 feet, thenco South 89 degrees 52 minutes 29 seconds East, 220 00 feet, thenco North 06 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds East, 200.00 foot to the Point of Beginning. Together with a private easement to ingress, egross, and public utilities purposes, 99.00 feet in width described as: Beginning at a point on the East-West 1/4 line of Section 23, Town 1 North­ Range 9 West, distant South 69 degrees 52 minutes 29 seconds East, 255.97 feet from the West 1/4 corner of said Section 23, thence North 06 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds East 99.59 feet, thence South 89 degrees 52 mmutes 29 seconds East, 454.00 feet, thence South 00 degrees 07 mmutes 31 seconds West. 99.00 feet, thenco North 89 degrees 52 minutes 29 seconds West, 464.81 feet along said. East-West 1/4 line to tho Point of Begmnmg. Also: Commencing at the West quarter post of Section 23. Town 1 North. Range 9 West; thence South 89 degrees 52 minutes 29 seconds East 475.97 feet along the East and West Quarter fine of said Section 23; thence North 06 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds East 229.59 feet fcr tn© Place of Beginning; thenco continuing North 06 minutes 17‘seconds East 1^.00 f^ W^No^u 89 degrees 52 minutes 29 seconds Wfest 120.00 feet, thence South 06 degrees 21 m’nutes 18 seconds West 100 0 feet; thence South 89 degrees 52 mmutes 29 seconds East 120 0 feet to the Place of Beginning. Common street address (rf any): 2650 W Lomaar Rd, Delton, Ml 49046-9567 The redemption pened shall be 6 months from tho date of such sale, untess determined abandoned In accordance with MCL 600 3241a; of. rf the sub,ecl real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600 3240(16) If tho property is sold at foreclosure sa.e under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600 3278 tire bonower will be held responses lo the person who buys tho property at tho mortgage foreclosure sate or lo tho mortgage holder for damaging tne property dunng the redemption period. Attention homeowner If you are a m>'Hary service member on active duty, if your period cf active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, of if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney lor tne party fcrec'osmg the mortgage at lhe telephone number stated m this notice. This notice Is from a debt collector. Date of notice: March 12, 2020 Trott Law. P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Suite 145 Farmington Hiiis, Ml 48334 (248) 642 2515 1412337 138504 (03- 12)((M02) �Page 10 — Thursday. March 26, 2020 — The Hasting a - fcOVID-B City staff works to prevent spread of disease Snvanah Kaechele Contributing Writer Along «ith individuals all across the world. Hastings citv staff members arc taking steps to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus twin-19. ,„ . With the ’’Stay Home. Stay Safe executive order in place, extra precautionary measures arc m force. City Manager Jerry Czarnecki Die numbers of staff working al City Hall have been reduced and any city employee that is able to work from home is doing so. ‘ We are limiting our staff that is physically here; however, not limiting to the point of limiting our services,” Czarnecki said. Hie city had a plan in place in thc event of a physical disaster, but this situation is a bit different, he said. So alterations to the plan were made. ___ •’s more i-Mmnlpxitv. ’•There complexity.”” Czarnecki Czarnecki said. “We arc doing our very best to keep everyone safe.” ... . , The City Hall’s main lobby has been closed, and will remain closed until the slate of emer­ gency is no longer in effect. Walk-ins are no longer allowed in thc building. The building is n central location for the community and, for some citizens, it’s part of their day to walk in and talk with lhe city staff. Czarnecki said staff members are miss­ ing these normal interactions. “Hastings is a community, and part of a community is interacting with each other,” he said. Staff members have been stepping up efforts to protect their own health as well as thc health of others. Czarnecki said they are watching for symp­ toms and employees arc being encouraged to Slav stay home home if if they are not feeling well. Th,.<r They arc practicing safe spnCe methods and any employee who is with monetary trans­ actions is wearing gj^. We were taking measures to protect the residents from us - and us from the resi­ dents,’ he said. “Now we arc protecting our­ selves from ourselves.” Although there are still be staff members working in the building, the number of employees present varies from day to day. Schedules create crews that alternate. This way, staff members arc separated, but are still able to share their skills. Considering the limited number of staff members physically present in the building, phone calls arc being routed to voicemail, he said. “There will be information when they con­ tact the City Hall to leave a message.’’ -r.« . i.. j.. To contact the police office from outside the building, residents will need to use lhe call box located next to lhe doors of thc City Hall building. More infonnation on how to contact the police department also is listed on the city’s website. Citizens are still able to pay their bills by using the drop box in the City Hall driveway, or online. Infonnation on how to pay bills through online resources and or through the drop box also is listed on thc city’s website. Another aspect of the city operations affect­ ed by the executive order to stay in are the governmental meetings. According to the governor’s adjustments of the Open Meetings Act, governmental bodies can now hold virtual meetings. Many other city board and committee meetings have been canceled or postponed. However, city council mr^finps are still taking pla^« • _ eting mretings P'“- yj j me The council held its nr cX(ended. Monday. If the stay-tn nlso will be held the next city council meeting ■ ViS„g agendas have been.reduced to include only items that are ■•Business has to keep going. Czarnecki '^Individuals can view the meetings.through the livestream on thc city’s webs.te.ortirough the virtual meeting via Join Me. a website for online meetings. , . Czarnecki is encouraging lo low the governor’s orders, saying: “ the soon­ er thc people follow die rules, the sooner thc rules will end.” MSP answers questions regarding executive order How will the “Stay Home” Executive Order bc enforced? . The order directs Michiganders to stay in their homes unless they’ve been designated as a critical infrastructure employee by their employer, engaged in an outdoor activity while maintaining social distancing, or performing tasks necessary to the health and safety of themselves or their family, like going to the hospital or grocery’ store. Thc executive order is not a recommendation, it is an order necessary for the health and safely of all Michiganders. The executive order became effective March 24.at 12:01 am. and continues through April 13 al 11:59 p.m. Under this order, individuals may only leave their home or place of residence under very limited circumstances, and they must adhere lo social distancing measures recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention when they do so, including remaining at least six feet from another person when outside the individual’s residence lo the extent feasible under lhe circumstances. The goal of this order is simple: Stay­ home. slay safe, and save lives. Will the MSP be stopping people for being out on the streets and issuing tickets or approaching businesses that appear to still be open? The executive order authorizes critical infrastructure workers and persons engaged in an outdoor activity or performing tasks necessary to the health and safety of themselves or their family to leave their homes for these limited purposes. For this reason, there arc no plans to randomly stop people or to conduct a coordinate campaign to inspect businesses to ensure compliance with this order. With that said, executive orders do carry the weight of law, and die MSP stands ready to enforce any aspect of these orders, if needed. However, given the serious nature of COVID-19, we are confident that Michiganders will take notice and voluntarily comply. It is in the best interest of the entire state that we all work together to stay home as much as possible. Is the National Guard enforcing this order? No. The National Guard is being used for humanitarian missions across the country. The Michigan National Guard is assisting with ensuring lhe medical supply chain in the state. Are the freeways closing? Will there be checkpoints? No. Critical infrastructure workers need to be able to fulfill their duties, and Michiganders need lo be able to perform tasks necessary to the health of themselves or their family, such as going to lhe hospital, pharmacy or grocery store. Law enforcement officials are hopeful Michiganders will recognize lhe seriousness of this situation and voluntarily comply w ith this order. protect life or to conduct minimum basic operations.” For purposes of this order, workers who are necessary to sustain or protect life are defined as ‘‘critical infrastructure workers.” The EO details that these workers may include employees in health care and public health; law enforcement, public safety, and first responders; food and agriculture; energy; water and wastewater; transportation and logistics; public works: communications and information technology, including news media; other community­ based government operations and essential functions; critical manufacturing; hazardous materials; financial services; chemical supply chains and safety; defense industrial base; and child care. Anyone with questions should consult lhe guidance and direction in Executive Order 2020-21. Is the media essential? The executive order does identify lhe news media as part of communications and information technology, which means that a journalist could be considered a critical infrastructure worker for purposes of this order. When do yon call 911 versus lhe COVID19 hotline? 911 should be reserved for requesting emergency services only. Persons with questions about COVID-19 should review the resources available at michigan.gov/ Coronavirus. Residents also can call the MDDHS COVID-19 hotline, seven days a week, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., at 888-535­ 6136. Per CDC guidance, persons who believe they are exhibiting symptoms or have been exposed to COVID-19, should contact a medical provider first to have their symptoms screened. Al this time, not everyone’s symptoms or medical history qualifies them for testing. No one should show up to a Will you be stopping everyone you see? No. Law enforcement will bc visible and prepared to take action if violations are warranted, but we are optimistic that individuals and businesses will recognize thc serious nature of this order and will comply by slaying home. What happens to those caught violating the order? Executive orders carry the weight of law and violators can face up lo a 90-day misdemeanor or up to a $500 fine. Businesses in regulated industries also can face licensing and other restrictions. Who 5 considered essential and allowed to travel to work? The executive order prohibits in-person work that is not necessary to sustain or protect life. Specifically, it says “No person or entity shall operate a business or conduct operations that require workers lo leave their homes or. places of residence except to the extent that those workers are necessary’ lo sustain or System overwhelmed due to high demand • Use the online website www.michigan. gov/uia or call the automated phone system 866-500-0017 during non-business hours (anytime before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m.). ’l*he online system is available Sunday through Saturday, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. • Wail to file a claim until later in the week - Wednesday through Friday. • Individuals who file their unemployment claim during the COVID-19 crisis do not have to appear in person at Michigan Works! in order lo “Register lor Work.” Register for Works requirements have been waived during this period. • Some individuals do not qualify for unemployment benefits due to low earning in their reported quarters. If a person does not agree with that decision, they can follow thc “Request for Redclcrmination” direction on thc back of their Monetary Determination letter they receive from unemployment. • If lhe decision stands that lhe individual does not qualify for UIA benefits, we are encouraging people lo file an application with lhe Department ol Health and Human Services at https://www.michigan.gov/ mdhhsd) .5885,7-339-7155 L.7338-6922.6,00.html. This application will determine it individuals are eligible to receive food, cash and other benefits from the state. • In addition, people are encouraged to con­ nect with United Way’s 211 system for local resources and supports. What about the homeland security letter that is floating around authorizing federal employees to travel for work? Per the executive order, federal law’ enforcement employees are considered critical infrastructure workers. Where can I find more information and clarification about this order? The executive office is working as quickly as possible to clarify specific areas of the order, based on questions they are receiving from industry and the public. A list of FAQs is being continually updated. WVierr do I find information regarding lhe latest Secretary' of State sen'ices at this time? michigan.cov/documenls/sos/COVID-19OFFICF.-CLOSURE-FAQ_684644_7.pdf resh Food Initiative continues with in-car pickup Unemployment filers urged to be patient Anyone who plans to file a claim through Michigan’s Unemployment Insurance Benefits system should bc aware that the sys­ tem is currently overwhelmed with lhe amount of claims being filed every day. Their phone and online systems are slow’ due to overcapac­ ity. “We arc asking that individuals please be patient with lhe .system,” a recent news release advised. “It is also important to note that if a l>erson is having issues on their personal device due to UIA's system being bogged down, they will have the same results in the Michigan Works! Office.” lhe website to apply for benefits is www. michigan.gov/uia or call 866-500-0017. fhc West Michigan Works! office in Hastings will Ise open during the “Slay Home. Stay Safe” executive order time period since it is considered an essential function of thc state The office is serving customers by appoint­ ment only, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Appointments are reserved for those who do not have access lo internet, technology or are unable to operate technology. For those who are not lech .savvy, a family member, fnend or support person may be able to assist thcnt w ith the technology. For Hastings area residents, the number to call is 616-649-9850. Here arc some tips for filing a claim; medical facility without first contacting a medical provider. Barry County United Way Executive Director Lani Forbes organizes food to hand out for the Fresh Food Initiative Wednesday. The weekly Fresh Food Initiative is continuing are under new Centers for Disease Control guidelines during the state of emergency. The Hastings food distribution remains in the rear parking lot of the Green Street United Methodist Church, but Barry’ County United Way is asking participants not to leave their vehicles. The parking lol is blocked off until the program starts, so people should not arrive early. 'rhe truck arrives at the normal scheduled time and volunteers unload the food items, then package all items into boxes. The food is limited one box per household. The United Way is providing limited volunteers for this event. They ask that no outside volunteers or program recipients enter lhe building unless coordinated through Morgan Johnson directly. A United Way staff member will bc available at 8:45 a.tn. to let vol­ unteers into the building through lhe kitchen door only - w hich remains locked throughout the entire program. A delayed distribution starts al 10 a.m. and runs until 11:30 a.m., according lo an alphabetical schedule. Visitors are asked lo arrive by the first letter of their last name A-H will be from 10-10:30 a m., I-P will be from 10:30 lo 11 a.m. and O-Z w ill be from 11 -11:30 a.m. A volunteer will meet each person al their car, and give them their regular paperwork to fill out. Each car can then move forward io receive a bag of food. The oplion to dn>p off or pick up a box. in lhe kitchen has been ternporanly suspended. The program is free and non qualifying, but participants must be Barry ( ounty residents. 1 More information is available nt bcunitedway.org or 269-945-4010 �The Hanmos Banner - Tlnrrsday, Mach 26.2020 - Paqe 11 2019-20 Winter All-Barry County County’s top eagers battled throughout season Brett Bremer Sports Editor fortunately or unfortunately, all five Barry County varsity girls’ basketball teams got their entire 2019 20 season in before high school 'R'rt* Wcrc brought to an end this win­ ter. The Fhomapple Kellogg varsity girls* bas­ ketball team had the countv’s top record al 12-10 with the Delton Kellogg girls right behind al 11 -10. A postseason victory gol the Trojans' their 12th victory of the season. lhe Trojans and Panthers were facing some of the top teams around in conference action, fast Grand Rapids and Grand Rapids Christian, the two teams atop thc OK Gold Conference, both earned more than 20 victo­ ries this season. Delton Kellogg was chasing lhe 20-win teams from Schoolcraft and Hackett ( alholic Prep in the Southwestern Athletic Conference Valley Division all win­ ter The Hastings girls hud a pair of 20-win teams in their conference as w ell, with Parma Western and Harper Creek among the top teams around. While thc competition was lough all fall, thc local girls kept battling from start lo fin­ ish. Here are lhe lhe 2019-20 AH-Barry Couniy Girls’ Basketball first and second teams. 2019-20 Alt-Barry County Girls’ Basketball First Team Erin Kapteyn, Delton Kellogg: A senior captain who started on the varsity for three seasons, Kapteyn led the Panthers in scoring this winter at 11.3 points per game. She was second on her team in rebounding ai 657 per game, while adding 1.9 steals and 1.42 assists per contest. Kapteyn is a two-time All-Valley Division performer in the SAC in basketball, and has . received postseason honors in four varsity sports including softball where she has plans lo continue her athletic playing days at Hillsdale College. She will be lhe Panthers’ 2020 valedictorian as well. Olivia Lang, luikewood: A senior forward, Lang earned honorable mention all-confer­ ence accolades in the GLAC this winter. She averaged 7.6 points and 65 rebounds a game. “Our most consistent player down low. with solid moves to lhe hoop. She could also step out a bit with a nice outside shot," coach Kelly Meints said. Paige VanStee. Thomapple Kellogg: A -; junior forward. VanStee was named first team all-conference in the OK Gold after leading - the Trojans in scoring (20.2 points per game), - rebounding (115) and steals (3.0). record book with a ten-steal game this winter, the second best single game total at DK all­ time. She led her team with 21 threes this Paige VanStee “She can do anything that you ask of her on the basketball court.” TK head coach Ross Lambitz said. “She recorded a career-high 38 points against Wyoming. She is an extremely efficient player as well. In addition to being a great offensive player. Paige is a standout on defense as well.” Ashlyn Wilkes. Maple Valley: A junior guard. Wilkes earned first team all-conference honors in lhe Greater Lansing Activities Conference for the second season in a row. She upped her scoring average to 14.2 points per game this winter, and added 7.4 rebounds, 2.4 steals and a block each game. “She plays point when she is needed to and that takes away from her ability to score the basketball.” said Lion head coach Landon Wilkes. “On a nightly basis, she draws the other teams best defender or a whole group of defenders. .At limes this season she was asked to play all five positions in the same game, this can lie difficult but she found a way to make it work. Is her game complete? Absolutely not, and she continues lo develop her game with hard work. She loves to get in the gym and work. Tliis year she learned how lo be a leader on and off the floor." Claudia Wlklnson,Thornapple Kellogg: .A senior guard, Wilkinson earned honorable mention all-conference accolades in the OK Macy Winegar Gold Conference this winter while averaging 5.8 points, 2.0 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game. ,. “Claudia is thc definition of a two-way player,” coach Lambitz >nid. “She was always tasked with defending the best perimeter play er on the opposing team. Even though she had to expend so much energy on thc defensive side of the ball, she was Mill able to bc a key contributor on the offensive side. Overall. Claudia is a great leader and a great player for our team." Macy Winegar. I l istings: A freshman guard, Winegar led the Saxons in scoring with 115 points per game while also finishing with a team-high 54 assists. She knocked down 53 threes throughout the course of the season while hilling 70 percent of her free throws and recording 63 steals. Winegar was n.itrrd honqrable mentiqn all-conference in tt lnfers4ut6-8 Athletic Conference. 2019-20 ULBarry County winter. “Holly is one of the quickest student-ath­ letes that I have ever coached, and that pub her in positions to create havoc for opponents on both ends of the floor,” said DK head coach Mike Mohn. Trista Medina. Maple Valley: A junior guard, Medina averaged 4.1 points and 55 rebounds a game this season, while adding 1.5 steals per contest as well. Trista docs not have the greatest numbers, but brings that attitude and effort that we need.” coach Wilkes said. “It was lough to take her off thc floor this year. She continual­ ly develops as a player and person, and .she is willing lo do lhe little things that do not show up on a stat sheet. She loves to compeie and enjoys to see others improve.” Josie Nickels, Hastings: Nickels, a junior, led the Saxons in rebounding this season with 83 total rebounds and was second on her team in scoring with five points per game. As well as being a solid defender. Nickels led the Saxons in field goal percentage shoo­ ing 41 percent from thc floor. Kristie Possehn. Lakewood: A senior guard, Possehn averaged 6.15 points, 4 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game, and coach Meints called Erin Kapteyn her lhe team’s most consistent shooting guard. “Given time, she’s got a great three-point shot, but drives to the hoop with tenacity loo,’’ Girls’ Basketball Second Team Tyah Jefferson. Thomapple Kellogg: A coach Meints said. “She stared out the season junior forward. Jefferson was second on lhe kind of quiet, but in the last few weeks of lhe Trojan leam in scoring al 7.5 points per game, season was putting up 12 lo 14 points a steals al 2.0 per game and rebounds with 4.2 game.” Corrin Replogle. Thomapple Kellogg: The per game while being a threat inside and out Trojans’ senior point guard averaged 3.1 on lhe offensive end. “lyah is one of our best three-point shoot­ points and 3.1 assists per game, while also ers on our team and her ability lo stretch thc chipping in 2.7 rebounds and 1.1 steals a con­ floor against teams was an invaluable asset test. “Corrin played point guard for us in a throughout the season." coach Lambitz said. “Tyah always brought great focus and energy league that applies a lol of full-court pressure. She was able to handle lhat pressure and help to lhe floor." ... get us into our offense against some of the Anja Kelley, Lakewood: lhe Vikings junior point guard was named honorable men­ best teams in the Grand Rapids area.” Mary Whitmore, Delton Kellogg: A sopho­ tion all-conference in the GLAc this winter more forward. Whitmore led lhe Panthers in while averaging 7.85 points, 2.5 assists and rebounds with 9.19 per gam while also adding 2.3 sleals per game. “Our offensive leader with handles that 6.29 points per contest in her second varsity broke any press, at times she showed greal season. “We are looking for big things from Mary finesse and passed the ball with ease," said as we move into next season,” coach Mohn coach Meints. Holly McManus, Delton Kellogg: A senior said. “She will have to be willing to carry guard and a learn captain this winter, McManus more of lhe offensive load if we are going to averaged 10.38 points. 3.05 steals and 2.48 be successful ... I am really excited about this assists per game. She earned a spot in lhe DK young lady’s future as a Panther.” first team tasters flu Kodh ©f Brett Bremer Sports Editor A pair of Lakewood seniors made lhe list of top Barry County basketball players during the 2019-20 season, Jacob Elenbaas and Bryant Makley. a pair of long-lime varsity ballplayers lhat opponents arc likely happy to not have to face any more. Elenbaas and Makley were two of lhe many seniors across the stale left hanging as the Michigan High School Athletic Association suspended lhe winter sports season due to the COVID-19 pandemic concerns. Lakewood was supposed lo face Eaton Rapids in the Division 2 District Finals at Olivet High School last Friday after knocking off Charlotte in the district semifinals last Wednesday. Maple Valley was the only other team on lhe court Wednesday as concerns about lhe spreading virus grew at an accelerated rale, but lhe Lions were bested by Potterville in lhe Division 3 District Semifinals at PewamoWestphalia. A pair of district tournament wins helped lhe Lakewood boys lead the couniy in victo­ ries during the 2019-20 season with ten. Delton Kellogg had nine wins. Hastings eight and Thomapple Kelldgg and Maple Valley bad three wins apiece. The Thomapple Kellogg boys knocked off Hastings in December, and had a pair of wins over Wayland during the course of the season. It was a brutal schedule for the Trojans, who finished sixth in the OK Gold Conference, l he Forest Hills Eastern team ahead of them in fifth place in lhe standings had 14 victones. The OK Gold Conference leaders from Wyoming and Grand Rapids Christian were nmked among the best teams m the stale and Ixith closed lhe season with 20 wins. All lhe county teams had tough foes lo lace. Coldwater look the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference with a 16 6 overall mark. Perry, I edie and Stockbridge shared lhe Greater Unsing Activities Conference crown, tied vrilh tun wins apiece in conference play. T le Southwestern Athletic Conference Valley Division champions from Schoolcraft were a perfect 21-0 when their state tournament run u.ls brought to a halt‘lk." ;L- the 2019-20 AH-Barry County o'ethull l-’iiM and Second learns. ->019-20 AH-Barry County Bovs’ Basketball First Train Kirbv Bede • H istings: A junior guard . । . rn-liif'h 12 8 points per game lor the -........... “ ■ '“n"V'rl's'o averayed 4.1 rebounds per game. Hastings: A junior. Eastniat. Jacob Elenbaas emerged as a force inside for the Saxons this year. He averaged 10.8 points and 10.4 rebounds per game. He was a unanimous all-conference selec­ tion in lhe Interstate-8 Athletic Conference. Jacob Elenbaas, Lakewood: The Vikings’ strong senior guard/forward. Elenbaas was a tour-) ear varsity Marler and three-year team captain for lhe Vikings. He was among lhe All-GLAC honoiees for lhe fourth time this winter alter averaging 145 {joints and 8.6 rebounds per fame. Elenbaas also shot 72.4 percent from the free throw line this winter. Dawson Grizzle, Delton Kellogg: A senior center who head coach Jason Howland saw giving 110-pcrecnt all season during games and practices. Grizzle averaged 9.7 points and 8.7 rebounds per game, while adding a couple assists and 1.5 steals a> well. He was named fust leam all-conference in lhe SAC Valley Division. “He is an individual who loves the game and gives what he can from within, and you can see his passion for the game when you see him play.” coach Howland said. Dawson Grizzle Cole Shoobridge. 1 hoi nappie Kellogg: A junior captain for the Irojans ibis winter. Shoobridge took over more ball-handling duties tor the Trojans ihi’- winter where he could use his size to try ^liligiue some of the pressure from OK Gold ( inference oppo­ nents J He averaged 11 points, 7 rebounds and 15 steals a game. “('ole is a versatile offensive p|a^er with lhe ability to create his own shot, or score jn lhe post, outside, mid-range and can even finish over lhe rim.” coach Josh Th.tier said, “(’ole carries lhe majority of the |oaj when it comes io handlin', pressure. Opponents regularly a^i.'ii their b,.^ defend­ er lo our guard, ( ole. Austin VanElsl 1 liotnapple Kellogg: A junior center. VanElsl was nanted a||<oufer cnee in lhe OK GolJ < onfeiericc this winter. He averaged 16 points and rebounds a game. Austin is a load inside. ‘-" •G, j^a(er sai(j “He demands the altciilkm Of qle When he gets lhe bail H’s>dc. »vgU|;uj „eu5nJ, double-learned. Hi> athleticism ;nuj ^venJ| basketball skill makes him a tuu^ ni;Uch *Up 12 steals, 2.8 assistsand 1.1 blocks per game. “He has the ability to put the ball on the floor and gel to lhe rim and is a good enough shooter to knock down the three-point shot." coach Ryan Nevins said. “He is also big and strong enough to score in the low post.” Bryant Makley. Lakewood: One of the area’s top scorers, Makley capped off his senior season by averaging 13.9 points per game to go along with 3.7 rebounds per game. He shot 72.7 percent from the free throw line. A four-year varsity player. Makley was named honorable mention /Xll-GLAC this winter. . Cole Pape. Delton Kellogg: A junior cap­ tain. the Panthers’ big center w as named hon­ orable mention all-conference in the SAC Valley this season. His season was shortened due to injury, but he averaged 12.8 points and 8 rebounds this season. Coach Howland said he provides guidance to his teammates on and oft the court. "He is a young man who enjoys lhe game, and was an important piece of the puzzle while he was able to play this season." Jonathan Rosenberg, Maple Valley: A senior guard. Rosenberg averaged 5.1 points, Evan Eastman 5.1 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game., lead­ ing his team in steals and finishing second in even oul of the post." assists and blocks. , 2019-20 AH-Barry County “ Jonathan was our do-il-all guy this year, Boy s' Basketball First Team coach Nevins said. "He really came on in the Carter Cappon. Hastings- The Saxons senior point guard was a team captain this last month of lhe season and had some very good games. He has great instincts on die 'ih/avcragccl 7.6 points and 22 rebounds defensive end of lhe floor and has a knack for getting rebounds." Levi VanderHeide, Thomapple Kellogg: A ^ Jaye" Cusack. I .akewood: A rare- freshman junior guard/forward, VanderHeide was dw on the varsity in the area this winter. Cusack kind of player to do whatever was asked of earned honorable mention all-conference in him. He averaged four points and four 'h Cusack averaged 7.6 points. 4.1 rebounds rebounds a game this season. “Levi is a tough defensive player lhat usu­ and 3.7 assists per game this season. ally is matched up with thc opposing team’s Nolan Dahley. I hornapple Kt lo^. A best offensive player." coach Thaler said. “He junior guard and team captain. Dahk, ay Jed 9 points per game this season as well as crashes the glass hard and gets a number of tips to keep lhe ball alive on the offensive 2.5 assists. He shot 91 percent tromt >e rec end.” throw line in conference play, hitting • Curtis Walker. Maple Valley: The Lions' junior forward earned honorable mention al I-conference honors in the GLAC this win­ in the hole from anywhere. S ill, he ter, leading his learn in scoring and rebound­ ing and recording eight double-doubles. He averaged 145 points and 8.8 rebounds per game and shot 47 percent from the field. ° “He is a very hard worker and quiet lead­ er," coach Nevins said. “When we struggled to score this year often limes we looked to X. ^u«ds. Meals and three .jxm ers Curtis io get us going." "“£... . .... vhile leading the lions in assists taken. He averaged H>3 point'. <’ tvNmnds. I �Pace 12 — Thursday. March 26,1*020— The Hastings Banner Hillsdale will be Kapteyn’s next softball home Brett Bremer . .Spon.r Editor Chasing another district championship, a third .straight, and other titles with the Delton Kellogg varsity softball team are things at thc top of Delton Kellogg senior pitcher Erin Kapteyn’$ wish list for when sports begin again. Whether or not she gets that chance, she officially inked her plans to try and help the Hillsdale College Women’s Softball programi chase* another conference championship in the' future. She signed her National Letter of Intent to join lhe Chargers’ program earlier this month. , Kapteyn has grow n accustomed to winning with thc Panthers over her four varsity sea­ sons, but it wasn’t always that way. The Delton Kellogg varsity girls won eight games in 2017. Kapteyn’s freshman season. Thc Shank will shoot for Concordia next season ah I h 'vor1 lhc Greal Midwes« Anuetic Lonfcrenee tournament champion­ ships in each of the seasons, earning a pLtce m thc NCAA Division 11 Midwest Regional Toumamcnl each time. inej won thejr confercnce last year, so (rci* prctly decem softball team, but what really drew ille |herc wa$ lhc ncadcmics. They have a really gtXxi s .h(X)| for what I'm going into; Kapteyn said. She plans t0 sludy biology, with hopes to work towards becoming a physicians assi.s- adu- . Was Working her way through her AP biology course at Delton Kellogg this year and is slated to be the valedictorian of her graduating class. Kapteyn started playing T-ball as a kinder­ gartener. Her parents' Joel and Misty, both have been slow pitc|j softball players. I just fell in |0Ve wj(b the game,” Kapteyn said. .. ' ?uei.ni°Vfd Up from T-ball to coach pitch sottlxill and then around fifth grade she start­ ed watching YouTube softball videos and decided she wanted to become a pitcher. It was a rough start. She learned fastpilch pitch­ ing was not something she could just step into and be good at from day one. She started playing travel ball in sixth Delton Kellogg senior Erin Kapteyn signs her National Letter of Intent to join the grade. She has been a part of lhe West Hillsdale College Women’s Softball Program while surrounded by her fellow senior Michigan Venom based out of Hopkins, and is softball teammates Katie Tobias and Lily Timmerman and (back) Hailey Buckner and currently a part of the Caledonia Chaos pro­ Lauren Lebeck. gram. She said all the travel ball time helped her with college recruiting and helped her just get extra touches of the ball during the high lhat Saturday in June of 2018. While she left involved. We’re all kind of on each other.” school offseason. the track and field team to focus on spring A couple of other DK softball players have Kapteyn has been pretty active athletically softball, she throughly enjoyed her multi­ already had their signing days. Senior catcher away from the diamond too. She has also sport experience. Katie Tobias has plans to play at Central earned al I-conference honors in volleyball “It really helps with lhe versatility and you Michigan University and Hailey Bucker is and basketball. She also competed with thc work different muscle groups you wouldn’t in headed to the diamond for Adrian College. Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ track and field softball.” Kapteyn said of competing in other Kapteyn has done fielding and hitting as team during the softball season for her first sports. "Learning all those different skills you she can at a local ball field, and at least two years of high school. She qualified for the Division 3 Ixjwer Peninsula State Finals in can carry them on from one sport to the next.” through last weekend was continuing pitching She also gets to experience other sports lessons every Sunday with instructor Rick the 100-meter hurdles as a freshman in 2017. with her softball teammates, something that Grogg. She won the Southwestern Athletic Conference has helped build chemistry on and off lhe “It sucks,” Kapteyn said of putting her championship in the pole vault in 2018, set­ diamond over the years. senior season on pause. “We were all really ting a personal record by clearing the bar at 9 “We were working hard,” Kapteyn said of looking forward to this year, starting in the feet 10 inches and qualified for the Division 3 the first week of try-outs and practice that the fall with volleyball and then basketball. We L.P. State Finals in the the pole vault and lhe Panthers got in before schools shut down. were right there trying to finish out the bas­ 100-meter hurdles. “Everyone had that mindset to go far (in thc ketball season and start the softball season She did not compete in lhe stale track finals state tournament). We have really practiced (and it all stopped).” her sophomore season, instead pitching the individually. I have practiced quite a bit over “We’re all kind of crossing our fingers and Panther varsity softball team to a district title the break. Really, it is up to everyone to stay praying.” omorc. In the middle of that second high school season she scored a 105 on a rainy day at Egypt Valley, and started to feel like she was turning a comer. As her scores kept drop­ ping through her junior season she started thinking about playing golf on the collegiate level. She fired a low nine-hole round of 44 during a dual with Thomapple Kellogg last fall al Centennial Acres, and had a low varsity 18 of 86 nt Cedar Creek Golf Course. “Her last two years, she made a big jump.” Kutch said. “She worked really hard in the summer and in the offseason, getting lessons from a swing coach. Chris Mory. and then playing in summer tournaments. That kind of really helped her make lhe big jump from her first two years." "The ball striking, she was able to really get a swing down that allowed her to get a little more distance than most kids, which in turn puts a shorter club in her hand as she approach­ es lhe green.” . Shank hasn’t gotten much work in this spring yet. She is just finishing up recovery from an injury she sustained before lhe high school competitive cheer season could begin. As w’ell as being an all-conference golfer. Shank helped the Lakewood varsity competi­ tive cheer team to a spot in the state finals her sophomore year. Those haven’t been her only sporting endeavors. “I came from being a softball player, and usually going from softball to golf is hard because the form is totally different and it is a totally different swing.” Shank said. “A soft­ ball swing, you have your back ami up and you use more of your torso to twist, where golf you use your shoulders and you have your arms down and swing down and through." She has played in the Regional Junior Golf League in the Lansing area in the summer. “I am looking forward to having Jordan join the Falcon golf program in the fall, and anticipate that she will make a quick impact Brett Bremer on the team and for our conference. Her swing Sports Editor is both powerful and balanced, which is a A semi-truck left the road, went over a combination not always seen together in the mailbox, then through a bam on its way high school level." Concorida head golf coach toward a steep embankment down to the Greg Nikolai, who is a PG/\ certified instruc­ Thomapple River Thursday morning on M-37 tor. said. between Airport Road and Heath Road west "We anticipate good things for Jordan in of Hastings. the next few years from a golf standpoint, but The Barry County Sheriff’s Office also academically as she has chosen a very reported Friday that the driver in the crash good program here at Concordia University sustained minor injuries. Thc driver was Wisconsin.” checked out by first responders at the scene, At Concordia, she plans on working but refused further medical treatment. towards a degree in sonography. Shank was According to the sheriff’s office, the semi exposed to sonography when she enrolled in went off thc road just before 6:30 a.m. as the the Eaton Regional Education Service /Xgcncy driver was attempting to set his coffee down. as a junior. I he semi left the road in one front yard, while “I just grew an interest in it and it’s just traveling northwest on M-37 toward fascinating to me,” she said, “the machine and Middleville, and then crossed another yard, trying to cure people through using sound plowing tracks through the soft ground. waves is fascinating to me.” Die regular traffic flow was interrupted Brett Bremer Sports Editor . Lakew ood senior Jordan Shank can gel out on the golf course at the present lime if she so chooses. as golf courses are among the few sporting locations open to lhe public. '■ She made plans early this month to play future rounds for lhe Concordia University Wisconsin Women’s Golf program, signing her National Letter of Intent in lhe Lakewood High School Media Center. Shank was the Greater Lansing Activities Conference’s individual champion last fall while helping the Lakewood varsity girls’ golf team to another conference championship. It was quite thc accomplishment who didn't even begin getting into the game until high School. • “Conch (Carl) Kutch came to me my fresh­ man year and was like 'hey, would you like to golf for me’ because my dad teaches with him, Shank said. “It was sort of a last minute thing where I had no idea what I was doing. I ididn t know the difference between a putter and a driver. Coach Kutch kind of led my way through my journey of high school. The first year was kind of rough.” She spent Jess time in the rough as a soph- * Panthers w.,„ jn 2018 and then 30 ln?' While dniniinP back-to-back dis(tia champion.,h. Hillsdale hns fl). successful lately Path of destruction left by distracted semi driver • 155 ' * Lakewood High School senior Jordan Shank put pen to paper this month, in the Lakewood High School media center, to s/gn her National Letter of Intent to join the Concorida University Wisconsin’s Women’s Golf program next season. "ffe EIDE® US ATTORNEY throughout Thursday as workers cleared thc truck and trailer. A small barn is left in shambles after being hit by a semi-truck th^t dr™ . west of Hastings Thursday morning. (Photo by Brett Bremer) « PREPARING FOR LIFE’S UNEXPECTED CHALLENGES Longstreet Elder Law & Estate Planning is about planning. It is in our name. However, as* the older and wiser among us know, life has a way of throwing unexpected things at us. The ( ovid-19 Virus certainly qualifies as one ol those unexpected moments in life. As of the writing of this article, wc do not quite know how this will play out. Luckily, our team has been slowly implementing technology to create greater efficiency and client service. Now, we can take care of our clients no matter where wc are and no matter where they arc. While wc always .prefer meeting face-to-face with your families, we are not dependent on our physical space to carrj on with helping you take care of jour family and loved ones. To deal with lhe Covid-19 virus specifically, wc made and implemented plans to reduce the possible spread of disease m our office, everything from ensuring employees can work from home and encouraging this practice if there is even the slightest concern of infection, lo *»;iniii/ing all surfaces, even our pens, staplers and door handles. Our mission is lo take . ate of jour families, and we have been planning tu make sure vve carry on ww, loi jgsuec trlckrla w.votn with that mission. even during the unexpected. We are prepared and available to take care of your families, whether we do it in our physical space or through phone calls and virtual meetings. We also implemented a “Drive-up and Sign” protocol so we can have clients sign documents from thc safety of their cars. The idea is lhat there are multiple avenues to complete your plan or improve a plan lhat has been in place. If you are feeling unprepared, or you just have a few questions about your estate plan or long-term care / Medicaid plan, we at Longstreet Elder Law would love to talk to >ou about making or updating a plan. Robert J. Longstreet $ Longstreet Elder Law & Estate Planning P.C. 607 North Broadway Hastings, Michigan 49058 269-945-3495 LONGSTREET ELDER LAW& ESTATE PLANNING P.C ernbanknv/ro'11 Merl’5 Towing Service go through the pivues, U7„,H ,u lumOve an overturned semi tnu.i, ----an outbUtani above lhd Thornapple River west of Hastings Thursday. The truck left the road ear J ThuS'm [trai,er ,r™ an d'n9 aqd impacting traffic flow throughout the day. (Photo by Brett Bremer) V h sda* morning, destroying � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-04-02.pdf e597562b14b259ffb4e8508af63b497f PDF Text Text business helps ce testing kits What’s happens next is in our hands, hearts Story on Page 3 See Editori(*[ on page 4 All-County wrestling, swim/dive teams named See Stories on Pages 12-13 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 ANNER 1070490102590502441049058195427 tt’tS'*ao* 1%05S-' ** 954 Thursday, April 2, 2Q2Q VOLUME 167, - === PRICE 75C —----- County adds 1 case; state surges to 3rd in nation Rebecca Pierce Editor ; Ban)-Eaton District Health Department has a surge plan in place and an expectation lhat many more cases of the coronavirus COVID-19 will be confirmed in the region in the next two weeks, health officials said Wednesday. ’ “Residents should assume that, wherever they go in public, they will be exposed to COVID-19,” BEDHD Health Officer Colette Scrimger said Wednesday. Scrimger and her team expect a rapid rise in number of cases in the region in the next two weeks. The peak for case confirmation here, as anticipated by medical models, may occur around April 8, Anne Barna. BEDHD plan­ ning, promotion, and eviduation manager, said. “We do expect everything to change very rapidly.” While health officials can’t be sure exactly when that case surge will occur, they said the peak has not yet been reached. Barry County’s second case of the virus was confirmed Tuesday afternoon. This patient is a 63-year old male with no travel history1. The first case is a 45-year-old male w ith no travel history. As of Wednesday afternoon, the Barry Eaton county region had 27 confirmed cases, up from 16 tw o days before. Michigan added' another 1,719 confirmed coronavirus cases to its logs Wednesday after­ noon and reported 78 new deaths. These new cases reported by the state Department of Health and Human Services bring the total to 9334 known cases in the state. Michigan has the third most COVID-19 cases in the nation. Compared to the swift spread of the disease in major metropolitan areas to the west and southeast. “Barry and Eaton counties might be different, depending on how much people arc following the orders” to stay in and prac­ tice social distancing. BEDHD officials said. Spectrum Health Pennock Hospital is cur­ rently training physicians and nurses in the triage tents erected outside the Medical Arts Building in Hastings, Janine Dalman, the hos- ninl’s executive director of marketing and its foundation, Wcdnesdi‘.v afternoon. -Volumes will dictate whether the tents are On Monday, March 23, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed the “Stay Home. Stay Safe" order, which is in effect until 11:59 p.m April 13. This suspension of non-essential business­ es and operations,along with instructions that only those residents who are part of the criti­ cal infrastructure workforce should leave their homes for anything other than essential needs and exercise, is intended to mitigate the spread of the disease. Barry County's Central Dispatch Director Stephanie Lehman said her department is screening all types of calls for COVID-19. “so citizens should expect to answer a few additional questions in regards to fever, cough and shortness of breath, regardless of what they are calling for. If the call will require a physical response from law enforcement, fire or EMS, these additional questions are being asked. “This is to ensure we are doing our part to help keep our public safety partners as safe as possible." Overall, since the stay-at-home order, “wc have seen approximately an 8-10 percent drop in overall cull volume.” Lehman said. “While some types of calls have decreased, some have increased. “Increased incidents include domestic dis­ putes and calls regarding compliance with the governor’s Stay Home order. Surprisingly, medical calls have remained the same.” The number of people, 66, who are being monitored and quarantined in the Barry-Eaton See CASES, page 2 Whitmer in televised town hall tonight Public and private television stations in Detroit will broadcast a live virtual town hall meeting with Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer al 7 p.m. Thursday. Viewers will be able to pose questions during the hour-long event, which organizers are calling a first-of-its-kind collaboration. Carolyn Clifford of WXYZ Channel 7. Hue! Perkins of WJBK Channel 2 and Devin Scillian of WD1V Channel 4 will host the town hall from their studios in Detroit, while Whitmer w ill join a live feed from Lansing. Each of those televisions stations will offer the chance for viewers to submit questions online ahead of the town hall, according to a release. A feed will be offered to stations across the state. Organizers say the town hall also will stream online al television station websites and platforms like Facebook Live. Mt’s like a war effort Volunteering in the time of COVID-19 Luke FYonchcck , ’JDZfc-r Volunteers across the area luxe been doing what they can to help fight the invisible enemy that is COVID-19. About two weeks ago. Diane Haines found herself watching TV and hearing about people in need of masks and other hospital supplies. The news had a greater impact, since she has two nieces in the medical field. One niece works in lhe emergency room in a Kalamazoo hospital. The other is running two emergency rooms in the heart of New York Cily. “It’s scary." Haines said. “You just think about it all lhe lime, and you pray for them.” Haines finds herself particularly close io the ever-spreading pandemic. But rather than sit idly by. she decided to do every thing she can to support her nieces and other medical professionals as they work to protect Americans from an invisible enemy. A seamstress, she quickly found a way she could help. So far, she has sewn about 100 masks, each of them taking about 15 minutes to cut and sew. Haines has made several different kinds of masks. Some have been distributed to every­ day citizens to wear when they’re going out, while others are being used by medical pro­ fessionals like her nieces. “ft means everything to rne that I’m able to help,” Haines said, "ft helps me feel like I’m doing my part when it feels like there is so little that I can do. It gives me a purpose.” While doing research online. Haines found that some hospitals are looking for masks with filters. She began searching the internet for a way to make the filtered masks. She found that vacuum bags have the same make­ up as many of lhe fillers. “I believe my sewing is a gift from God,” Haines said. “I started when I was 5 years old. I do a lot of different projects that are volun­ tary. It’s helped me. It’s helped my anxiety to try and protect the people that I love.” Some of the masks have already made their way to her nieces. Haines was able to provide word from her niece in New York. Dr. Elizabeth Haines, who intends to use lhe masks her aunt provided to cover her N95 surgical mask since it has to last her for a number of days. But Diane Haines is not the only one mak­ ing masks and doing her part during this glob­ al pandemic. The GFWC-Gun Lake Area Women’s club has begun a targeted effort toward providing hospital masks and gowns to those who need them. A dozen members of lhe club, along with family and friends, have sewn and delivered about 300 face masks to hospitals and retire- . Dr. Elizabeth Haines is on the front lines fighting COVID-19 in the heart of New York City. Her parents grew up in Hastings, and her aunt Diane Haines is sending her the masks she’s making. (Photos provided) n,ent homes. Of the 300,50 were N95 surgical masks for us<-* in hospitals, and the rest were for general use. “More are being sewn every day, and we Diane Haines has been making all sorts of masks to help fight the COVID-19 pan­ demic. will continue until the need is over while sup­ plies remain available.” Lisa Pishevar, presi­ dent of the Gun Lake club. said. Club members also are making surgical caps and hope to have several dozen finished soon. “We have a history of helping people in the community," Pishevar said. All supplies have been donated by club women. Iwo different groups of women arc making and providing masks, Pishevar said. One group has been sewing together since 2006. They are based out of the Hastings area and are providing masks for an area retire- See WAR EFFORT, page 5 Schools in ‘limbo’ on future plans Assistance on the way for small business Taylor Owens Stu ff Writer Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has said she will announce today whether schools will remain closed for the rest of year, and many adminstrators are preparing for that to be the case. "I think that’s the prevailing opinion.’’ Hastings Area Schools Superintendent Dan Remenap said Wednesday. Thornapple Kellogg Schools Superintendent Rob Blitchok sent a letter to parents Tuesday, stating his expectation lhat the confirmation is imminent. “It’s going to be difficult,” Blitchok wrote. “This executive order will likely address the number of missed school days lhat will be forgiven, along with expectations regarding distance (remote) learning for lhe remainder of the school year.” Administrators say they are ready for some concrete answers to questions they’ve bad fora few weeks. “Lhe hardest pan is being m limbo and not having an end date." Remenap said, “ft’s really h ird for teachers and administrators.” have mostly been working together through teleconferences, brainstorming ideas and preparing for different possibilities. I here's no way for me to give an official plan, because we don’t know if lhe school year is cancelled right now.” Delton Kellogg .S' .took Superintendent Kyle Corlrft said in <« eo update to the community Monday. He received some information during a webinar with Michigan State Superintendent Michael Rice. “He assured us lhat if a student is on track to graduate, then they should be allowed to graduate and know that they’ll graduate by the end ul lhe school year," Corlelt said. Unless a student was severely behind when school was closed last month, they are expected to advance to the next grade level But other questions remain. “I could speculate 10 different ways wcould go, Maple Valley Schools Superintendent Katherine Bertolini said Wednesday. “Essentially, it’s going io depend on what kind o| latitude we’re given.” If school is canceled, will state officials expect districts to continue instruction fOr credits, or for enrichment to keep students from backsliding before this fall? What are the expectations for student without adequate technology access, or for those who arc in special education? Many districts are exploring possibilities for online instruction. but it is difficult in a rural area. Bertohm said Maple Valley was looking into purchasing mobile hotspots for students, but found out Tuesday they would not be available until the end of May. With the rest ol lhe country facing many of the same problems, it has made finding technical solutions extremely challenging, Bertolini said. t B’s nearly impossible for a small school district to make major upgrades to its online infrastructure in a matter of Weeks, while a Pandemic is going on. if the school year *s canc^ed, * *and * * districts ** move to enrichment education for the rest of the year, superintendents say dl*s would look similar to lhe system they are currently Us»ng. For many districts, » would likely be a tnixiure of online learning and paper packeb» given out through the txxxl distribution !‘>stem. “The academic resound we provide will according « I11C ^radc lcvcl <»' ><W Mildren,” Blitchok wrote to parents. “Our I’ians will not be finalized until after we !cvie* the parameters and guidelines we’ve told will be contained within the gover nur’s executive order. M) expectation is we Wi^Unthis new learning alter April 14. IK effects of canceln’P the sclKxd year <he next school year - and V'!?lMond adminrtm^ • *e‘r.. eoim’ havL t0 change the fin'Sh hl* this veari to change the L. xt sear." Hemenap said. ^‘’lin^ Siiid it PrK>bably be too "“Mi to ir. J fit all’nstruction.d matenai lnt ^'andh .: <ch^lytar. ^’’•iould very rcaM’n,,b,y ^‘considered “-id. Greg Chandler Staff Writer Not quite a week has passed since Congress approved and President Trump signed into UwtheComnavirusAid.Relieratidlxorioniic Security, or CARES. Act - a S.2 tnllton economic stimulus measure to help businesses . we ithcr the economic storm andi consumer* vvcauwi the COVID-19 virus has inflicted on the "’mH how much of that money will actually find its way to Barry County^ Not much, stud Bonnie Gettys, president and chief executive ofTtcer of the Barry Community Eoundation. Because ot the county’s small size and populanon base with.n lhe West Michigan region, the county is receiving only fun*"« ,,hr0U^ The Right Place. Hie economic development organization in the Grand Rapids metropolitan ' And a committee- that’s been formed to review applications has already receive applications from businesMis throughout l ie county, totaling $ I million. Gettys said. Meanwhilcjhe community foundation has put together a low-interest loan jnograni. known as the Impact Investment Ixxm Fuii , in an attempt to make up lhe dillerence About SI 18,(XX) is available in lhe fund.Gelt)s said “Wc want to make sure vve help smal businesses and assist them in ways that keep the [local] economy flowing," she said. /X committee consisting of local business and community leaders will review the applications and decide which ones will receive funding, Gettys said. Meanwhile, a former Barry County economic development leader is optimistic the measure will have a significant positive impact on lhe county, as well os the surrounding region and the state. “From the assistance directly to families to the creative business support programs through the [Small Business ,\dmmi strati on] - particularly the Payroll Protection Prognun. which 1 think will end up being particularly impactful in keeping our small businesses alive and folks getting paid during this challenging lime - every little bit helps,” said Trax is Alden.direclorof business development for The Right Place, and former executive director of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance. Alden joined lhe Right Place in November, after having worked at lhe Barry County Chamber since April 2016. lhe Payroll Protection Program, which Was a key clement of the CARES Act. provides See ASSISTANCE, page 2 �Analyzing the spread of COVID-19 in Michigan more than 1.600 cases more than Illinois and, Bridge Magazine In three weeks, coronavirus has swamped as of Monday, more than double the deaths: Michigan, making it the fourth hardest-hit 259 io 99 for Illinois. All other Great luikes state in the nation, while the outbreak has stales have far fewer cases and deaths. Hutton said that, in retrospect, “it would grown far slower in neighboring states. have been more prudent” to enact the measure The virus came to the Great Lakes slates around the same time, with Michigan con­ “a few days earlier.” Tiffany Brown, a spokeswoman for firming its first two cases on March 10. when Whitmer, said the governor has moved aggres­ Illinois had 19 cases and Ohio had three. Now. the numbers are vastly different: As sively. activating the “State Emergency of Tuesday. Michigan had 7.615 eases. Illinois Operations Center to closely monitor the situ­ had just under 6.CXX). and Ohio. Indiana and ation and make sure the state was prepared to respond before Michigan even had its first Wisconsin all have less than 2200. The wide difference raises questions about case of COVID-19.” “Since lhat time she has taken numerous how the states could follow such different proactive actions and signed executive orders, paths. Epidemiologists warn that it's too early including ’Slay Home. Stay Safe to mitigate in the crisis to make conclusions, but some experts wonder if Michigan’s caseload would the spread," Brown said in a statement be different if public officials moved faster in released Tuesday night. "In fact, Gov. Whitmer spoke with President Trump earlier the early days of the outbreak. “They’ve all done the same thing,” tixlay. The focus was on the importance of said David Hutton, a health planning and pol­ getting PPE and resources to Michigan for health care workers, slowing the spread of icy professor at the University of Michigan. But timing makes a big impact, he added: COVID-19. and protecting the people of “Days can make a difference.” Michigan.’’ Hindsight is a huge benefit, of course, and As with stales across the nation, Michigan closed schools, shut bars and restaurants and Hutton acknowledged numerous other factors limited large gatherings in mid-March and could be at play including simple "bad luck.” Michigan could have been hit harder ultimately issued a “stay at home” order. On March 20, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker because the virus may have already been in lhe community for days or weeks before the ordered state residents to “stay al home" the following day. At the time, the slate had 585 symptoms or testing. Among lhe possibilities Hutton and others confirmed cases of COVID-19 while have mentioned for lhe rapid spread in Michigan had 549. Asked lhat day if Michigan would follow Michigan: Detroii Metropolitan Airport, which has a suit, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said "we’re not large international hub and direct flights to there yet.” Over lhe next two days. Michigan’s busi­ Wuhan. China, where the outbreak originated ness community lobbied lhe governor against in December and its airport remained open a broad order they said would hurt the econo­ until Jan. 23. Supply lines between Detroit automakers my. She issued the order March 23 and, like and Wuhan, a major auto hub and home to those in Ohio and Indiana, it went into cfTecl five car manufacturers including Dongfeng Motor, one of lhe biggest in China. General the next day. But by then. Michigan had more than three Motors has 15 assembly plants in China with times the number of cases than Ohio. 1535 to its partners, while Ford has six and Fiat 567. while Indiana had 365. Wisconsin’s stay Chrysler has two at home order went into effect the next day, Ties between automakers, particularly when it lud 585 cases. FCr\. and Italy, which has more than 77,000 Now, just over a week later. Michigan has casesand 12,000 deaths. CASES, continued from page 1 county region “is incredibly fluid,” Sarah Suma, a community health promotion spe­ cialist with the department, said. “People come on or off of that list as their 14 days expire ” Because most of the BEDHD diag­ nosed cases - 27 - arc in Eaton County, “it is safe to assume that the majority being moni­ tored arc Eaton cases.” she noted. Men and women arc contracting the virus about equally, although men are far more like­ ly to die from it. Statistics compiled by lhe MDHHS show that about 40 percent of the people who contract the virus are younger than 50. Testing, which isn’t available to lhe general public, remains a problem. "We’re seeing some major challenges in terms of testing capacity,” Bama said. "When we don’t have enough tests to test every one, who are we going to test?” Priority groups have been identified. Scrimger said, but even among those groups, testing is limited. If people don’t have symp­ toms, they’re not being tested. This presents a problem for lhe health care system - and the spread of lhe disease - since some people unknowingly carry the virus but don’t experi­ ence any symptoms. Another challenge in Michigan is the inability to get the tests processed quickly, she added. Some results will come in 24 hours, while another may take as many as seven days. Scrimger said they are relying on com­ munity and slate hospitals to ramp up their capacity for testing. Detroit and its surrounding areas continued to be hammered, with the city reporting a total of 2,472 cases and 83 deaths and its suburban Wayne County recording 1.998 cases. Nearby Oakland logged 1.910 cases while Macomb reported IJ)88cases. Michigan’s March 10 presidential primary and big campaign rallies leading up to it. including one that drew 6JXX) in Detroit.tor Bernie Sanders on March 6. In contrast. Ohio cancelled its March 17 primary. Michigan, as with other states, could have benefited from an earlier crackdown on gath­ erings and social contact, said Dr. Vikas Parvkh, associate chief clinical officer tor the University of Michigan Medicine’s adult hos­ pitals. . UM researchers have concluded that strict adherence to social distancing guidelines can cut hospital admissions by 65 percent. “Wc know that, the earlier that you imple­ ment social distancing measures in the lite ot an epidemic, the more rapidly you can halt the rise and the quicker that you can get control so that is true for Michigan as it was true tor every country that has had a coronavirus." Parckh said. Without social distancing, the infection rate doubles every' three days, he said. That rate slows to every eight days if most people social distance — a huge difference for the hospitals tasked with caring for the ill: at UM, it could mean the difference between having nearly 6,000 patients on May 4 or nearly 3,200 on May 16. Experts said it could take extensive research to know how the virus spread and the lack of early testing makes that difficult. “We’ll have a much better idea in the com­ ing days and weeks, though there is certainly reason to hope that stales which rigorously enforce social distancing will help flatten the peak of infections,” said Christopher Adolph, associate professor of political science at lhe University of Washington. Michigan cases rise fastest Among neighboring Great Lakes states, Michigan has seen its COVID-19 caseload rise the fastest. All regional states had fewer than 20 cases on March 10; Michigan now has over 7,600 while Ohio, Indiana and Wisonsin have fewer than 2,200. 8,000 7,000 6,000 V) GJ m a u 5,000 o 4,000 £ Z 3,000 2,000 1,000 0 o Indiana O Ohio ® Michigan o Illinois • Wisconsin Source: Covid Tracking Project Bricky Factors that may have contributed to the rapid spread of COVID-19 in Michigan: Detroit Metropolitan Airport. which has a large inteniation.il hub and direct flights to Wuhan, China, where the outbreak originated in December and its airport remained open until Jan. 23. Supply lines between Detroit automakers and Wuhan, a major auto hub and home to five car manufacturers including Dongfeng Motor, one of the biggest in C|iina. General Motors has 15 assembly plants in China with its partners, while Ford has six and Fiat Chrysler has two. Ties between auJonjakcrs. particularly FC A. and Italy, w hich has more than 77.000 cases and 12,000 deaths. , . Michigan s March 10 presidential primary and big campaign rallies leading up to it, including one that drew 6,000 in Detroit for Bernie Sanders on Marrhi6?In contrast, Ohio cancelled its March 17 primary. ' ** . . ... BARRY-EATON DISTRICT DATA AS OF 3/31/20 Number of Positive Cases in Barry County Number of Persons Under Monitoring or Quarantine 55 Coronavirus in Michigan Michigan health officials are testing residents daily and announcing results. This map shows home residence of those who've tested positive for the virus; their current locations aren't known. T otal cases: 9,334* Deaths: 337 ASSISTANCE, continued from page 1 ~—________ _ _________ _ $350 billion in fu!ly.pUanintecd loans to small businesses that maintain their pay roll through the COVID-19 crisis Those loans may be forgiven if borrowers maintain their payrolls °r restore them after the crisis passes. In an email message Wednesday. Alden stressed the importance for business owners and management to act quickly on taking auvantage of the CARES Act. “At every leveI we are cncouragmg businesses to engag^n conversations ASAP With their bank, as that will be the entry pomi these programs. I’ve been encouraged by Jscussion, pve had i(h lc„den. "here 1 l'anic<l that many banks are doing absolutely firing they 4 "help attd^Xl - during * No cases $ 1 case S 2 to 49 cases ; 50 to 99 cases Alden wrote 9 W0 to 999 cases „ )u. iL ■•From delay cd payn»nui,0 getting orcauve with ^■ncss ciudU. thej.are all lh:,t lldl’ • 1,000 or more cases *As of 10 a.m. April 1 available to <ntl° , wlK»sC ^rations havc been fully rt illy ^P'nded as a Source: Michigan Department of Health & Human Services Bridge year cornpari**^’ The ERI C will provide a refundable payroll tax credit for 50 percent of wages and health benefits paid or incurred from March B through the rest of this year for the first $10,(X)0 of wages and benefits paid per employee. That credit only applies for calendar quarters when those eligibility provisions are met. * * Employers with fewer than UK) full-time employees would receive the credit on all employee wages and benefits, while those companies more than 100 full-time workers would receive the credit only lor wages and health insurance provided to employees not providing services because of circumstances lied to COVID-19. ues Also included in lhe CARLS Act is • provision that will allow businesses to defer paying the employer portion of pay roll taxes from now through the end ot this year . may pay hall of the deferred payroll taxes by lhe end ol next year and the remaining 50 percent by the end of 2022. The provision also applies to sell employed workers and their estimated tax payments. In addition to lhe assistance available lhroi.pl-, lhe L AlUiS Act, Alden said, programs l;l the state lei el are available to businesses to pet them through the t'OVID-l'J crisis, such as lhe Michigan Iiconomic Development ... .......... Corporation’s Small Business Relief Program -provides grunts JS MFDCA M S,CS- 1, S funded trough 'he SsteJ hT'\ Strategic Fu"^ organizations at economic development Phce seX " .h 'T",y leVeL Tbe R’8ht <he regional level. li-nited fundingX'seXlhighP^" " but will definitely help ,c°mPc"uveweatl^r the storm.- Alden s£d ' bUS’nCSS'S Alden added that utilirv • Consumers Energy ™'nPan,cs such as businesses struenlin., o|tcniig relief to •hat a number*^' prival"1C!‘bills, and such crowdsourcing ‘2J; MainVest and I ",LdH ,<S’ includin8 “s Kiva­ opportunities to help busin * arC offcrin? Alden said he remains SUrvivc111'o'SiSh|K,S'eS- busi«essesP w?liTb?3' One thing that js const ? rebound, region and slalc is lf J'lsUnt'broughout our creative, resilient mti in ^us,nesses are '■The West M^'^'^-Aidensai^ ■•‘Ves uncertain times "i*4' comn'unity collaborative spirit th" 1L u’-J4' bul ** previous times of crisis ^Uldcd us through betore.’r‘b,!> >s stronger than ever �Tho Banner 2. cvc.u~' 2020 -- rPage 3 I HO Hastings HJ Mings Dd ’nw.’J ■— Thursday. *'•U'l-uuy, April £, De 'ton non-homestead millage postponed until August • ,Uv.V !’.\onch^k mnst likely would have been an absentee-only “So. ex cry fivc >X‘*L b*? t‘"usl goout «nd most likely would have been an absentee-only «;kforvo<crsl<>^i'b^»P. , . S,n(f Writer"' vote in the May election. Anon-homestead milk“We always ra,shecaiBJ0'?. 18 demise, The projxwal. which was initially approved co to Delton residents th;8C qucslion W>U still "f '"nation." have to wait a bit i±* S >'"•b'" M will by the Niard of education in January, is a every vc»r. il <lf0Ps U k operating bnngs in llppnn. renewal of the 18-mill rale and would run Because of the outhre 7"/' nmtelv S3-I74 inl / <oric" said, if it nisCOVID-19.Delton Keu? ° eoronav‘’ from 2021 to 2025. Kvk Corlett said the £2“SSSuperlnlendcM The most the school can levy is 18 mills, failed Jhe imp-*1ra,M‘rophic to the SCl'l°couidn'i e'en ’I*™1’'' we would ballot request in \|av . ct haf canceled Us Corlett explained during an interview in Corlett said the mov«l«to August, January. have to cut." the s"P«r"'l,-"'>ent said. "We’re “So what happens is, over time, lhat amount recommendation of “ "’"<lc "* thC ,10l even nt a point where we can cut things." gets decreased because of inflation, ” he said. n ot Ma,c officials who said it An important letter to our readers Dear Reader. When the Barry Eaton District Health Department’s medical director briefed coun­ ty officials on COVID-19, we covered it and PTvvk a fuI1 accounl in Thursday’s Banner. ?, hen school officials said the Maple valley High School gym could become a makeshift hospital if there is a surge in coro­ nas inis cases, we reported it. When precautions were described for lhe transport of COVID-19 patients in advanced life support ambulances, lhat was another exclusive local news story in The Banner last week. Community journalism - with the empha­ sis on community - is what we do and we’ve been doing that successfully for more than 164 years. We hope, after all this lime, a coronavirus pandemic doesn’t kill it. This week, newspa­ pers across the state of Michigan stopped printing. It’s ironic when you consider lhat residents need their local news more than ever. Our family of publications provide news and information about our community lhat you can’t gel anywhere else. We are unlike any other news outlet in lhe area because we’ve got feet on the street and we’re paying attention to what’s going on. The Banner is your newspaper of record. Il publishes every week on Thursday, pro­ viding local news, sports, editorial and op ed columns, letters to the editor, advertising. legal notices, obituaries and more. The Reminder is lhe free local feature magazine we publish that covers lhe region. Readers look forward to it every Saturday. (We know because you tell us.) The Banner and ‘I he Reminder help you save money and time; you can see what’s going on locally and plan for what’s ahead. Unfortunately, m recent weeks, planning for whai’s ahead suddenly got tougher. The mandated statewide shutdown of businesses, schools, churches, community organizations and government is a huge blow for all of us. And so w e are reaching out to all our val­ ued customers - all our advertisers and our readers - to simply say this: We’re your local news source and your neighbor. We are in this together. We support our community to the utmost of our ability We hope our community will step up and support us in return. This is a great time to subscribe to The Banner and give subscriptions as gifts to friends and relatives. Call 269-945-9554. Or call that number to run an ad to thank your local businesses and call attention to someone who’s doing great things in lhe community during these trying limes. We’re working for you - but we need your support to continue publishing even week. From all of us at J-Ad Graphics Cloverdale, Crooked Lak® water rising, pumps running Luke Fronchcck Staff Writer Just as area Jake residents were watching water recede ’ from shorelines, more began falling from the sky. Barry County Drain Commissioner Jim Dull said he was starting to hear positive responses from people living on Cloverdale and Crooked lakes in southwest Barry' County. But those positive words came just as quickly as the rain did last week. Pumping efforts were just starting lo yield results, he said. “Everything was going good until wc got this rain.” Dull said Tuesday. When the pumps were turned on for lhe first time this year March 10, Dull said Crooked Lake was al 928.1 feel above sea level. “We got it down to about 927.25 before the nun.” he said. The lake is currently at about 927.95 after the addition of the rainwater. But even as water levels were beginning to go down, Dull was .still dealing with the win­ ter restrictions on a detention basin near Crooked Lake.The pumping permit, approved by the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, said water could be pumped into that area only until it was around 936.6 feet above sea level. Seasonal restrictions could be lifted early, allowing for an increased volume of waler to be pumped from Crooked Lake. Dull said he contacted Michigan Department of Natural Resources officer Matt Diana who said there may be a way for winter restrictions to be lifted April 10 rather than April 30, as initially planned. Conversations with EGLE staff also have raised new pumping possibilities. Dull said engineer Brian Cenci can amend their original permit so they would be able to hook-up a larger I8-inch pump to take water from Crooked Lake to the detention basin. At that point, die 12-inch pump currently in use would be placed deeper in the property to help PCCI releases online programming Pierce W Creek Institute staff values , [ .!„■ center plays >" community and “■'r 2 t ed 0 P"rt ,l> l,revc"',he 'S CO" ? he ioronavtn.5. Based on the gov- 5pnd ue, Ibe institute is closed to the entor s mandat , .i|( pijblic P“tblLlS ie ^stponed through May 3. scheduled a I . linurs to promote ns misOne way s ja,jo)1 and stewardship sion to inspn P (Q s( nature- and sciof the e;‘v,r<”“ n(cnt online. Along with the ence-related caJ) lound al face­ website, ^^^rcreelunstitute. twitter. bookxom/p»e com/PrcnelnsUtmu cedarcreek. instagram.com/picrce- move the additional water coming in. "The 12-inch pump is working great on Delton Road." Dull said. “The one on Cloverdale Rond had n few issues, but it’s working good now." Work is still underway to get the long-term solution for the Watson Drain Hooding project complete. Dull said they are waiting on public notices lo go out to residents of the drain district. Those notices will be sent out by EGLE staff Dull said he believes they have been written just not sent out yet. Once those notices arc distributed, con­ struction on the infrastructure needed to pump water north through Cloverdale and Long kikes will begin. As for now. the pumps arc running, and water should be receding again. if the Aucust ballot oucstion failed. Corlett IX within five years. IX within five years. 11 the August ballot question failed. Corlett "That way. it it docs drop below 18 within said they would go back to the voters in five years, we won’t have to bother the voters^ November. In August, voters will sec two proposals on again. “Every time you have something on the the ballot, and both will concern the operating millage. The first request is capped at 1X mills ballot, the district pays thousands of dollars."’ This approach. Corlett said, will save botft so the second request. for 0.5 of a mill, will the school district, and lhe voters, money; allow the district to maintain its current rate. “Again, that is not an increase," Corlett And. if the levy is approved, it will provide said. “We cannot do more than 18 mills. the funding the schools need to operate. That’s just to protect us if the rate drops below Lowell business helps company convert to test kit manufacture Tim McAllister J.Ad Graphics News Service White’s Bridge Tooling. 1395 Bowes Road in Lowell, has been able to contribute to the containment of the coronavirus outbreak by crc-itinfi the "automation required to manulaciurc COVID-19 test kits. The company signco a non-disclosure agreement, so they are prohibited from reveal­ ing certain details of the project, but company president Pete Odland shared the information he legally could. “I can’t say who it s for or what they’re doing with the 40JXX) a week that they pro­ duce, but they’re a reputable company so I’m confident they’re going where they need io go." Odland said. The company is not producing the test kits; their contribution was to modify an existing robotic automation from its original purpose to the new desperately-needed purpose. “We built a piece of equipment that was making kind of a similar package, but for an entirely different thing," Odland said. “It was a pretty high-tech system that we designed with a FANUC robot, laser welding equip­ ment and palletizing equipment. "They saw the opportunity for us to help, and they converted the automation that we built over to make test kits for COVID-19. They said they have to nin it 24/7. which is a good thing because that’s producing a lot of test kils. which they badly need out there right now." "All we’re really doing,other than original­ ly building lhe whole thing," Odland noted, “is giving them support lo make sure that, if there are any issues at all, or if the machine goes down, we arc there lo support them." White’s Bridge Tooling in Lowell is helping with the effort to manufacture more test kits to use in the fight against the coronavirus COVID-19. (Photo provided) Their shop, like most businesses, was shut down by lhe governor’s order. But they had to bring a few people back after some of their customers were deemed "essential.’’ "We’ve got a few people back on, because three of our customers have been designated as essential, and they have designated us as essential lo them," Odland said. "It’s kind of cool that we’re considered essential, so we’re doing what we can to help those companies.” While’s Bridge Tooling has been one of Lowell’s leading high-tech companies for over 25 years. They’ve done work with very large companies like Ford and General Motors, and they have machines in operation globally, including China, France. Korea and Mexico. “We design and build high-tech automa­ tion, like robotics and robotic equipment,” Odland said. "We palletize parts for custom­ ers. thousands of parts a day onto pallets. “Whatever lhe challenge is, we will use robots and technology to design and build automation that achieves whatever their goal is.” For more information about White’s Bridge' Tooling, visit wbtooling.com. call 616-897­ 4151 or send a message to pete<& wbtooling. com. “Right now. people like to hear some posi­ tive stuff," Odland said. “They’re tired of negative things." * Food distribution sites in Barry County Taylor Owens z ’ Staff Writer^ Along with the food distributed to students by local school districts, a number of resourc­ es provide food to adults in lhe community. At least one new distribution site has popped up recently. The Business in Barry Group started a food and supplies distribution site in Hastings. Travis Trudgeon said the site started in a tent near the offices of Slate Farm Insurance, but weather caused it to be moved inside. It is now it the entryway of Thornapple Credit Union. Nonperishable food items and toiletries'can be dropped off and picked up by local com­ munity members. Trudgeon said there is also an index card at the site for people to share information on dropping off other items, such as meat, directly at residences. While many sites have moved to curbside sen'ice and may be implementing some changes during the state shutdown, Barry County United Way has provided a list of available sites as of this week. First United Methodist Church in Hastings continues food distribution with curbside pickup from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. every Wednesday. Maple Valley Community Center of Hope in Nashville operates every Tuesday from 9:30 lo 10:30 a.m., now with curbside service. Soups On in St. Francis Church in Shelbyville is on the first and third Wednesday of the month from 7 to 9 a.m. The Freeport United Methodist Church serves food at 10 a.m. every third Wednesday, at 10 a.m. Middleville Local UAW II1002 distributes at 4 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month. Kilpatrick United Brethren Church in Woodland also provides food at 9 a.m. every third Saturday. . �Did you see What’s happens next is in our hands and hearts Oh say, can you see? Paoer Haas are starting to pop UP *n windows at local homes anJ.J]UST^fofn The flags, provded by MH Telecom Services, can be found In the ce March 28 Reminder. We’re dedicating this spaceto-s‘ jJ^Thnt pi«« Hastings. Banner. 1351 N. 1V* f /. pie^c 49058; or enw‘1 new*®>adgraph» • relevant or anecdotal information. Doyou remember? Annual style revue Banner March 22. 1972 Tops in Barry — four of the six Barry County 4«H Dress Revue winners model the garments they made for the annual contest. Some 500 young 4-H young ladies participated in the project with final selections made during the revue at Central Auditorium. Pictured (from left), Becky Spencer, 18, of the Overtown Club, models her yellow formal with a dainty lace bodice. Linda Bryans, 15, of West Thornapple Club, wears her double-breasted coat of no-wale corduroy and her knit dress. Deb Bruxvoort, 16, also of West Thornapple, made her burgundy pantsuit and vest. Jennie Drake, 16, of Overtown, made ler double-breasted maxi coat that zips off to become a mini coat. Not pictured, but among the six selected as delegates to Exploration Days at MSU in June are Kathy Loftus. 16, of the Yeckley Club; and Nancy Warren, 16, of Hickory Corners, a member of the Busy Beavers 4-H Club. Members who received construction awards included Kim Kulikowski. Dunham Club; Kellie Butler, Fine Lake; Cindy Leonard and Linda Young, Banfield; Brenda Have you Armour. Mud Creek Raiders: Ronda Jean Johncock, Overtown; Loraine Huntington, Baseline: Joyce Christie. Debbie Lydy. Chris Wright and Cath) Ruder. Freeport Rogers: Mary Jo Cramer, Algonquin: Judy Seedorff, Hill and Dale: Nancy Warren. Busy Beavers: Crystal Mater. Busy Bcigh: and Anne Bryans and Malinda Bedford. West Thomapple. In addition to lhe six who received top honors, other 4-H Style Revue winners included Amy Usbome of Yeckley; Donna Seymour. Julie Wright and Ruth Gabbard of Pleasant view; Bea Decker. Hill and Dale; Kim Pickard. I leeport Rogers: Karen Ford and Cindy Fry. Busy Beavers; Cindy Keech, Maple Grove Maverick's; Jody Burchell. Dowling; Janene Reid. Mighty Workers; Becky Yoder. Dunham; K’Ann Forman, Woodland; and Ellen Jackson, Janice Sherman, Marcia Bryans. Sue Maichele and Cari Cox of West Thomapple. met? Jennifer Heinzman is new in town — arriving in February as the Barry County Chamber of Commerce director. Growing up. she had a split residency. Her dad owned a construction company based in Alma, but spent part of the year in Orlando, Fla. From the time she was in fourth grade, she spent half the year in Michigan and the oilier half in Florida. By ninth grade, however, she became tired of traveling back and forth, so she convinced her parents to allow her to stay in Orlando with her aunt. So for her freshman, sophomore, and junior years, she lived with her aunt in Florida. “By that time, I was working three jobs and actually could afford an apartment of my own,” she said “But my dad wanted me to try coming back to Michigan for my senior year. So I tried it for lhe first semester. J hated it. I missed my friends and went back to Florida and graduated there.” Heinzman, now 46, graduated from Maynard-Evans High School in Orlando in 1992 then headed back to Michigan in 1996. Site worked as a bartender before going to Central Michigan University from 1998 to 2002, receiving a bachelor’s degree in psychology and sociology. While attending CMU, she met her future wife. Rcbeka Lynds. Heinzman continued studying at CMU and received a master’s degree in public administration in 2005. “My goal was to get a federal job with Homeland Security. But it didn’t seem to work out that way. Every time I applied for a job. J was told 1 had to have five years ol experience before they would hire me. So I ended up applying for the Clare Chamber of Commerce and worked there for five years and five days,” from December 2006 to December 2011. She had a goal lo eventually work in Grand Rapids. She moved a bit closer when ahe accepted a position al Big Rapids Chamber of Commerce where she worked for 7 Vi years, from December 2011 to July 2019. One project of which she is especially proud is the Mecosta County Welcome Center. I( took tliree years from Mart to finish community. Jennifer Heinzman is this week’s Banner Bright Light. If I could meet anyone: Tracy Chapman is my all-time favorite artist and I’d love to spend an afternoon picking her brain. Favorite cartoon character: Strawberry Shortcake adorned mv walls as a child and 1 was talking to a patent attorney in Southwest Michigan earlier this week who said he had just filed an application for a patent on a potential vaccine for the corona­ virus COVID-19. My jaw dropped. This is one of many such filings, he told me. It is not unique. The general public may not be aware, but a lot of smart people arc working - nonstop - to find a vaccine to protect against this virus. And some of the people fighting this dis­ ease may very well be your neighbors. This attorney predicted that, by summer’s end. we will see a light at the end of the tunnel in the form of a viable treatment for the virus. But it takes time to bring any drug to market, he said. Until then, it’s imperative that we buy time to reduce the spread of the virus. Thai’s what this so-called “sheltering in place” is doing: Buying time, he said. I share this conversation because it gives me hope, which 1 would like to share with you. We all could use some hope. I find it reassuring to think that many minds are working right now to try and crack the code of this horrible mutating virus. I must digress for a moment to make one point abundantly clear: COVID-19 is far, far worse than the common flu. Remember, we have a vaccine for the flu. We have few weapons to fight this insidious enemy and no understanding of why it harms some people and others not at all. I got that information from Dr. Anthony Fauci and he’s a good source. The patent attorney I was talking to mar­ veled at Fauci, director of lhe National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and member of the White House Coronavirus Task Force. At 79, Fauci is indeed remarkable; work­ ing 16-hour days, speaking truth to power, and. above all. seeking a solution to stop lhe spread of this disease. Tliis doctor doesn’t sugarcoat his progno­ sis cither. We're in for a really rough time. Here’s what one of our Banner readers 'wrrite: “I guess the best thing to do is to ‘assume’ wc have all been exposed, that we are all carriers and go forward from there. Social distancing, slaying home, calling the doc if we develop symptoms. ... this seems to be the best way to go about it for me. I don’t need to worry about the ‘next guy’ — just about me and what I :im doing.” Wise advice. When it comes to fighting COVID-19. our nation may have been overconfident or in denial or both. But, in (he past few weeks, without any fanfare or podium thumping or invective flinging or handwringing, something quite remarkable has happened: Americans have declared war on COVID-19. I didn’t say America. I said Americans. There is a difference. I’m not talking about our country ’tis of thee. I’m talking about the individuals. The real power. The real smarts. The real fuel that makes things run. . i rilkins about doctors And I’m n°* J ‘ ,|,e front line in this ’;X^*afs’,Kingcrca,ed,’n,he United Way slaffa make sure res du despite a need ■ f(xxj eflch we(.k distancing that difficult to accom- PuUi.£ Sou^ Wtch. (We bad that story ... lhe BTnmer!Xi?g“^> the blood donors wbo^ecomefo^mg-"^^ enough'blwd.GSee that story on Page XX ^•m talking about the U>wcll company that is helping a manufacturer convert. thu system so it can manufacture COVID-19 lest kits. (See that story on Page XX today.) I’m talking about lhe educators, the teach­ ers and administrators, who are steadfast m their service to students, holding everything together for those kids, many of whom are struggling with the way their world has changed. (See that story on Page X/X today.) I’m talking about the women’s club mem­ bers who are sewing thousands of face masks and donating them to help protect health care workers. (See that story on our front page today.) A Facebook group pro­ vides how-to instructions and they’ve gotten so creative that some are inserting twist tics to create a tighter fit around the nose area of the masks. One Barry County woman whose niece runs two hospital emergency rooms in New York City figured out another innovation: She is using pieces of new HEPA filters for vacuum bags to construct the surgical masks. No doubt, she has her niece in mind. We’d like to share more stories about people in our community who are trying to make a difference, so please email us at editor^j-adgraphics.com or call 269-945­ 9554 with your thoughts. Clearly, the fight against COVID-19 will grow more personal as days go by, as more people are stricken. We also know (hat. despite all the sniping and fighting, and lhe inexplicable actions or inactions of the government, Americans, indeed, are a remarkable bunch. From little Belle Schaefer delivering indi­ vidually wrapped cookies a couple of weeks ago to emergency responders in Barry County, to Diane Haines busily sewing face masks for health care providers, we are a nation of individuals who won’t take a fight sitting down. We stand up as individuals. We figure out what we can do as individ­ uals. Then we fight. Together. We’d like to share more stories about people in our community who are trying lo make a difference in the fight against lhe spread of COVID-19, so please email us nt editor^•'j-adgraphics.com or call 269-945-9554 with your thoughts. still makes me feel nostalgic. Greatest invenlion: Chapstick. I am addicted, and always have been. Favorite games as a kid: Jumping rope and hopscotch. If 1 were president: 1 would take up drinking. If I could build anything: A welcome Jennifer Heinzman before opening in Noveinbci 2017. Hienzman’s reasons for getting lo Grand Rapids revolved around The Right Place, an economic development organization. She recently applied lor a position there. Another lop applicant was Travis Alden, lhe former director of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce. When she learned that the job had been given to Alden, Heinzman called her recruiter inquiring about Alden’s former position in Hastings. ’ ll turned out to be a perfect situation because my recruiter pul inc on the last (rack to getting into the position here in IJaMiln»s I guess it was meant to lx- because with oui two boys (Kason, L and Cruz, born Jan. 131 Rebeka and 1 wanted lo lx- closer to |;Un,| ’ now. and the location is perfect.’’ > Hcm/man said she kels al home with her co-workers. At this point, she's focused economic dev lopment, and lhe rest of <|t. .stall is tunning lhe oilice until she rets mJ comfortable. trc Outside of work, Heinzman enjoys Ol| painting, leading and spending time friends and family as well a, being involved w ifh the community. lor her commitment to her J(cw center for Barry County. Favorite website: Google is my go-to. I use it all day. every dav. ... Favorite teacher? I had a great thirdgrade teacher named Mr. (Adrien) LcMarble h> Alma. He sent us postcards when he went on vacations and always took the time to make sure we understood "hat he was teaching. I saw him as an adu,l‘ and ’C SU remembered my name. .. . Somethin,. „,ost people don t know me: I received a key to the c.ty when 1 left my position in Clare. . . . favorite dinner; Tacos. ton' ilV0ri,c breakl’.",: TaC0S' J * favorite book: I recently read "Born leeth- by K„‘ MXrcw and loved .1. ^•heC^g-byl^Owens '. 'fannieMCeXmOti'-’'Nh jumping rantps’it ou'r Big Whe,:l 1 lot •'eelsuheni^J i(| ... Slranitcst thine I've ever »wn- 1 u dr? ,<,l-Veg "k IU^'1M"y lh',,i!S What do you think? QUESTION OF THE WEEKbum ' . I„. featured t 1 1 u‘ reUVlll Mfthway1' '{‘“""V’ l^aln Ha^s. Woi anv I .nfarmaiion ftt ‘ I .V. M--IJ or , KeoniJ tl‘W apni1' Today, we're opening the question tn aiin... ' give more than a yes or no answer. Please reolv tn Ondents 10 short sentences to assignmenl@j-adgraphicsPcom 6 °r tW° On April 1, the Barry-Eaton District Health Don=« on number of COVID-19 cases showed 27 confit Ten* dala and 2 confirmed in Barry County. What do vnn In Eaton for that difference? 00 you thlnk accounts �Tho Hastings Banner — Thursday. April 2. 2020 — Page 5 WAR EFFORT, continued front page 1 picni home. The other group is led by Dia|)|. „ Deb Notelxxrm and provide and M<th«Ii« Hospital in Kda^8"™0" Here are some ways tn help: , . facilities* emergency fir.. -Write notes, make cards, color pictures for local care * other pluas. among Both groups have a history of mni,in„ . mittens lor-n^gS"*^ scni out by the club to families in ‘ e^ 5 ers, and/or essential workforce employees. -Rake a neighbor’s yard. -Call to check in on family or friends. -Clean up a nearby cemetery. -Support local restaurants by ordering take-out. through !he Barry -Dongle to the disaster relief fund created in partnersh'P > ' ommumty •No more cute quilt squares" Pkh. said. "We’ve turned ou7 clYo’rt, ± “1 COVID-19.” 05 ,ow“rd Foundation or the Barry County United Way. -Donate blood. . , , chcck a state website |Mlnnk. < Those interested in volunteering also are invited trajned medical profession^ ? Monday. The website, michigan.gov/fighlcovidl9. is f°',ra,n P ,es”°"a'* «> Because of the stay-at-home order is....! last week by Gov. Gretchen Whiter, club members have managed to find ways to s m port others tn need. 7 hUP” "Obvious'y. it’s my first time through nny Of th>s. Pishevar satd/’ m too y 8 W done anything thivugh the Vietnam War ••And this is like a war effort. We’re nil fighting this together. Every one is jumping in and helping out. J ‘ 111 Some of the women began making sewing packages that could be picked up bv those who wanted to help making masks * "We’re doing everything we can with the resources we have. Pishevar said.“Hopefully this is a time young people can look at groups like ours and see why they were formed in the first place. We are mostly retirees, but even for retirees, this is why wc join." Pishevar has a neighbor who is over 80 years old but still wanted to help. So, to gel one of the packages, she drove to Conley’s home, where the packages could be picked up. She carefully got the kit from the porch using gloves and placed it in her car. She drove home and left the kit in her car for three days to ensure lhat any potential virus on the package was dead. We started because there is a need, and , '>pund • register to help across the state in fighting COVID-19. hcjp jn th(;ir. Other state residents can use the site to find out how ;s| y. । ., '■ nities. give blood, donate money or needed medical supple °r tallh offals "In Ircnd the curve and slow the spread of COVID-19 in out state, we must all work together as Michiganders. Whether you’re a medical professional looking to volunteer, or 'umcone who can give blood or donate to your local fixxl bank, everyone can help. We will get through this together.” Those people with a background in public health, health care or community organizing may be able to assist with contact tracing, uhich includes speaking with COVID-19positivc patients to determine the people they interacted with and locations they visited in the days prior to becoming infected. “The time is now to save Jives.” said Robert Gordon, director of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. “Doctors, nurses, medical assistants - please volunteer where we need you most. You can save live£. "Michiganders in good health ulto want to serve senior, who are alone - safely, from-a distance - please volunteer. You can save lives, uxj. If you’re ready to use your cdl phone to trace infections lo their source, please volunteer. ; "You can save lives, too." • Water’s Edge in tracking infections. Financial LLC (hat’s what our club docs,” Conley said. “We just happen to have a lot of fabric on hand because we’re quilters. As a club, it’s what our purpose is, it’s just what we do. Anytime you can help, it just makes you feel better. It makes me feel better to be able to contribute in a small way.” Others who may not have a niche for sew­ ing or knitting can still find ways to reach out and support the effort to fight COVID-19. “With social distancing in place and obey­ ing by lhe “Stay Home, Slay Safe" order, there aren’t a ton of options available to vol­ unteer in the traditional sense," Morgan Johnson, director of outreach and community engagement for Barry County United Way, said. “Once this order is lifted, I expect many more opportunities to become available. But right now, there arc the options available that Jeffrey A. Keessen. AIF11' we are sugg«ting^Ping everyone safe " Whitm" saldl W\vc sc'n an incredible •inf of strength and courage of b.<?chignnders during this time of uncertainty, whether it's con"nun»":'> donating food, money. »nd resources to those that need it <)r from businesses using their technology t0 manufacture personal protective equipment. (269) 948-9969 525 W. Apple St. Hastings. MI 49058 www.watersedgeflnanciaLcom Taking care of what's important to you so that you can focus on what matters most to you JtfTrvj A. Securities offered through I PL FuundjJ. Member FINRA/SIPC A1P SPECIAL ELECTION NOTICE OF REGISTRATION FOR THE ELECTION TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2020 BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN SPECIAL ELECTION (Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by tho editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. (^ Know Your Legislators: TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS: The Barry County Townships of Barry, Johnstown, Prairieville, and Thomapple. COUNTY OF BARRY STATE OF MICHIGAN In accordance with lhe Executive Orders issued by the Governor, the election on May 5, 2020. will be conducted with special voting and voter registration procedures. Many public offices are closed or have limited access at this time. Before visiting an office, you should contact the office to see if It is open Additionally, voting in this election will be primarily by mail, with limited in-person voting on Election Day. •" You may verify your voter registration, register to vote online, or download a registration form that can bo mailed to the Township Clerk by visiting Michigan Gov/Vote *** PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that any qualified elector of tho above named jurisdictions who is not already registered, may register to vote at tho office of the Township or City Clerk, a Secretary of State branch office, or other designated state agency. Registration forms can be obtained at www.mi gov/voto and mailed to the Township or City Clerk. Voters who are already registered may update their registration at www.exprossSOS com. The last day to register in any manner other than in-person with lhe local clerk is Monday, April 20. 2020 After th® date, anyone who qualifies as an elector may register to vote in person with proof of residency (MCL 160 492) at the following. /; Municipality 1 Address Regular Business Hours 1 r J : Y_______ i j 8 00 am-4 00 pm : 7 00 am - 8 00 pm ; 8 00 am-4:00 pm 7 00 am - 8 00 pm : 8 00 am-4 pm 7.00 am - 8 00 pm ! 7 00 am - 3 pm 7 00 am-8 00 pm ; I :----------------------------------1 Debra KnigM Barry Township 155 East Orchard Street Delton Ml 49D4G b — -, -.. ___ - - - - Sheri Babcock Johnstown Twp. 13641 S M-37 ., Battle Creek. Mi 49017 Rod Goebei Prairieville Twp ! 1015 S Norns Road ; Cindy Willshire Thomapple Twp . Hours on Tuesday, May 5, 2020 Hours on ’ Saturday May 2. 2020 | Dolton. Ml 49046 200 E Main Street [ MtddlcvJio. Ml 49333 I , ■ j I Tuesday 9 am - 1 pm Wednesday 9 am - 5 pm ____ __________ Monday & Wednesday 8 am - 4 pm or by Appt ; Mon - Thursday !9 am-5 pm 1 _ ______ ______ _ ; Monday - Thursday 9 am-4 pm ; 1 . _ __ J These times may change because of office closures related to public health and safety. Before visiting tho office, please confirm office hours by visiting your local township website or calling them. Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; U.S. mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash. Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building, Washington. D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office; 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510 ohone (202) 224-4822. fan/ Peters Democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510oono Hhnnp (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room 720 110 Michigan Street NW. Grand Rapids. Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 233- ^President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Cap77 ........ ..mation line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Banner Under the Governor’s Executive Order 2020-27. unregistered but eligible voters also have the option to register online or by mail be­ tween April 21 and Election Day by then emailing or mailing a copy of required residency verification documents to their local clerk. Tho residency verification documents must be received by the local clerk before the registration process is complete. Further, under Executive Order 2020-27, voting in this election will bo primarily by mail. There will be ono (1) location in the town­ ship where voters may receive and submit ballots in person on Election Day. Please visit your local township website or call for information about how to vote in person on Election Day. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following proposals will appear on the CALEDONIA COMMUNITY SCHOOLS GENERAL 0BUGATI0N UNUMITED TAX BOND PROPOSAL FOR BUILDING AND SITE PURPOSES IN THE AMOUNT OF NOT TO EXCEED $88,090,000 CALEDONIA COMMUNITY SCHOOLS OPERATING MILLAGE RENEWAL PROPOSAL II. EXEMPTING PRINCIPAL RESIDENCE AND OTHER PROPERTY EXEMPTED BY LAW 19.4399 MILLS FOR 5 YEARS Full text of the ballot propositions may be obtained at trio administrative offices of Caledonia Community Schools, 9753 Duncan Lake Avenue SE, Caledonia, Michigan 49316-9411, telephone: (616) 891-8185. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE THAT THE BONDS OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT, IF APPROVED BY A MAJORITY VOTE OF THE ELECTORS AT THIS ELECTION, WILL BE GENERAL OBLIGATION UNUMfTED TAX BONDS PAYABLE FROM GENERAL AD VALOREM TAXES. KALAMAZOO RGIONAL EDUCATIONAL SERVICE AGENCY REGIONAL ENHANCEMENT MILLAGE RENEWAL PROPOSAL 1.5 MILLS FOR 3 YEARS n -i otcd to lhe Interests of Barry County since 1856 ‘ Puo’shedby.. Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division ol J-Ad Graphics Inc. . N M-43 Highway • Phono: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 1351 N ‘ , es. ne^&j adgraphics.com • Advertising: ads@J-adgraphlcs.com Nows and pf^ss re.ea____________ _____________________________ _ Frederic Jacobs publisher & CEO Hank Schuurlng CFO ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT. CUss/ivd ads acooptod Monday through Friday, 8 30 a m. to 5 CO p m. Full text of the ballot proposal may be obtained at tho ad- mlntstrative offices of Kalamazoo Regional Education Service Agency, 1819 East Mtlham Avenue, Portag®. Michigan 49002-3035, telephone: (269) 250-9202. THIS ELECTION WILL BE BY ABSENTEE BALLOT ONLY! ELECTORS MAY OBTAIN AN ABSENT VOTER BALLOT VIA FIRST CLASS MAIL BY 5:00 PM ON MAY 1 2020. ELECTORS MAY OBTAIN AN ABSENT VOTER BALLOT iN PERSON IN THEIR LOCAL CLERK’S OFFICE BY 4:00 PM ON MAY 4, 2020. Scott Ommen Ty Greenfield Mike Gilmore Colleen Egleston Jennie Yonker $jmp!o ballots may bo viewed at www.mi.gov/voto, LAST .NEWSROOM- Brett Bremer lSpo& ’■ Taylor Owens Greg Chandier Subscription Rates: $45 per year In Barry County $50 per year in adjoining counties $55 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER. Send addresi changes lo P.O. Box 188 Hi3bngs.Ml 48056 0183 Saccnd C..i$s Postage Paid a’Hwbngs, Ml 49058 NOTICE OF PUBLIC ACCURACY TEST ballot Monday, Apni 20,2020 F0R V0T£N REGISTRATION other than IN-PERSON persons w*as kilned by the Americans with DrsabiliAct should contact the appropriate clerk’s office. R*5 notice is given as required by law (MCL 168.493(3)). Notice is hereby given that a Public Accuracy Test for the May 5,2020 election will be conducted by the clerks of tho named townships on the voting equipment pursuant to MCL 168.798 at the addresses noted on the following dates: April 28, 2020 at 10:00 am at BARRY TOWNSHIP HALL 155 E. Orchard StreeL Delton, Michigan 49046 Townships participating in tho April 28,2020 date: Barry Township April 22,2020 O 10:00 am at JOHNSTOWN TOWNSHIP HALL 13641 S. M-37 Hwy., BattJo Creek, Michigan 49017 Townships participating in tho April 22,2020 date: Johnstown Town­ ship Apnl 23,2020 0 11:00 am at PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP HALL 10115 S. Norris Road, Dolton, Michigan 49048 Townships participating In tho April 23,2020 date: Prairieville Township April 21,2020 C 9:30 am at THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP HALL 200 East Main Street. Middleville, Ml 49333 Townships participating In the Apnl 21,2020 date: Thomapple Town­ ship The Public Accuracy Test Is conducted to demonstrate that the pro­ gram and the computer lhat wiil be used to tabulate the results for the election have been prepared in accordance with law. MONDAY. APRIL 20,2020 LAST DAY FOR VOTER REGISTRATION OTHER THAN IN-PERSON Persons with special needs, as defined In the Americans with Disabil­ ities Act. should contact the City or Township Clerk. Persons who are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired may place a call through tho Michigan Relay Center TDD* 1-600-649-3777. This notice b given as required by law (MCL 168.496(3). ------------YOU MUST BE REGISTERED TO QUALIFY ASA VOTER! ~' QUALIFICATIONS TO VOTE Citizen of the United States At least 1S pars of age on or before May 5,2020 Resident of Michigan and the tawnship/dty where you are applying to vote. PAMELA A- PALMER, BARRY COUNTY CLERK on behalf of: Johnstown Township Barry Township Sheri Babcock Dob Knight Township Clerk Township Clerk Thomapple Township Cindy Whiltshino Township Clerk Prairieville Township Rob Goebel Township Clerk �Anonymous donors ’gift’ I Worship Together In a collaborative effort. iFe Bnrry County United Way is g -ith donors to purchase <>itt cards to local re. tn i rants. These, in u.in. have N«en given as “thank yous” to Barry County first respond ...at the church ofyour choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616-690­ 8609. FREEPORT BAPTIST CHURCH 380 County Line Rd., Freeport. Ml 49325. (269) 760-1928. Pastor Ron. A traditional style of worship, no gimmicks, and friendly people welcome you to worship at 'an old country church.” Sunday School 9: 45 am. Sunday Worship 11 a.m. Sunday Evening 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study and Prayer 7p.m. Give us the pleasure of meeting you! GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH 8950 E. M-79 Highway, Nashville. Ml 49073. Pastor Don Roscoe. (517) 852­ 1783. Sunday service 10am. Fellowship Time before the service. Nursery, children’s ministry, youth group, adult small group ministry, leadership training. HASTINGS HOPE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 2920 S. M-37 Hwy. (M-37 at M-79) Pastor Kim Melzer. Phone 269-945-4995. husttngshopeumc.org hastingshopeumetf. gniail. com. W? welcome YOU to join us on Sunday Mornings at 10:30 for worship! Find Us On Facehook! & hastingshopeumc. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling. MI 49050. Pastor. Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 1 j a.m.; Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m.: Bible Study & Prayer Time Wednesday nights 6:30 p.m. MCCALLUM UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH 5505 Otis Lake Rd., Delton. Ml 49046. Phone: 269-623­ 8226. New pastor - Jerald Jones. Sunday Service: 10: 31-11:46; Coffee Connection. Nursery. Childrens ministry. SAINTS ANDREW & MATTHIA INDEPENDENT ANGLICAN CHURCH 2415 McCann Rd. (in Irving). Sunday services each week: 9:15 a.m. Morning Prayer (Holy Communion the 2nd Sunday of each month at this service). 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion (each week). The Rector of Ss. Andrew & Matthias is Rt. Rev. David T. Hus t wick. The church phone number is 269-795­ 2370 and thr rectory number is 269-948-9327. Our church website is www.sumchurch. org. We are part of the Diocese of the Great Lakes which is in communion with The United Episcopal Church of North America and use the 1928 Book of Common Prayer at all our services. HASTINGS ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1674 S. State Rd., Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone 269-945­ 2285. Sunday morning service time: 10 a.m. with nursery and preschool available. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E State Rd . P.O. Box 273, Hastings, Ml 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifcgatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 765, (comer of Milo Rd. & S. M-43). Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool. (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11:30am. Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6 30 lo 7:30 pm. ABUNDANT LIFE FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES A Spirit-filled church. Meeting at lhe Maple Leaf Grange. Hwy. M-66 south of Assyria Rd., Nashville. Mich. 49073. Sun. Praise & Worship 10:30 a m., 6 p.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Jesus Club for boys & girls ages 4-12. Pastors David and Rose MacDonald. An oasis of God’s* love. ’‘Where Everyone is Someone Special.” For information call 616-731-5194. GREEN STREET UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 209 W. Green St., Hastings, Ml 49058. Rev. Bryce Feighner Office Phone: 269­ 945.9574. Email: office, greenstreetumete gmail.com. Sunday, Schedule • The Praise 9.30 am. ; The Word 10 a.m.: The Table 10:30 am. Nursery Care is available through age 4; PreK-8ih grade Sunday School 10 a.m.; Sunday School for Adults at 11 a.m. Upright Revolt Youth Ministry (6th-12th grades) 5:30-7:30 p.m. FREE Community Meal every Tuesday at 5 p.m. Refer to Facebook for weather conditions. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn. Hastings. Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30-8 p.m., AWANA (Children Kindergarten-5th Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948­ 8004 for information on MITT (Mothers in Training Together), Sports Ministries. Quilling, Ladies Bible Study. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand Wheel­ chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF HASTINGS Sharing Jesus with our community de the world! 405 N. M-37 Hwy., Hastings, MI 49058. (269) 945-5463. www.firstchuxchhasiingia org. 9 a.m. Classes and Gatherings for All ages; 9:45 a.m. Worship (Children's Worship Offered); 10:45 a.m. Coffee Fellowship; 11:15 a.m. Coffee Talk with Pastor Dan. Follow us on Facebook. ers. front hne staff M local X’ essential workforce employees and other who are fighting the COVID-19 pandemic in GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Discover Cod's Grace with us! Holy Communion Every Sunday! Worship services at 8 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Nursery available both services. Pastor Ken Scheck II. paslorkenfq gracehastings.org. Location: 239 E. North St., Hastings, 269-945­ 9414 or 945-2645. fax 269­ 945-2698. www.gracehastings.org. Facebook: Grace Lutheran Church-ELCA Hastings, ML WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings MI 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m. well.” Justin Straube, owner of Seasonal Grille in Hastings and culinary arts instructor said. “It amazes me on how much a community comes together in time of crisis. The outpouring of support and generosity blows me away. This is why I am proud to be a part of our commu­ nity!” Forbes said this is just one way to can stand together as Barry County residents and sup­ port each other during this time. “Please remember to support our local businesses that arc continuing to operate in an unconvention­ al manner and remember that, with your help, wc will all get through this together.” In addition to local anonymous donor,, multiple Barry County church organizations Buddy Leroy Hammond (83) bom in Hanford City. IN on December 3, 1936, peacefully departed this life on Saturday. March 21, 2020 at Spectrum Hospital in Grand Rapids. Bud was preceded in death by his wife who he was married lo for 58 years. Carole S. Hammond; his parents. Robert Hammond and Myrtle Cook and brother. Bill Hammond. He is survived by his wife, Joyce Hammond; his children, Kalhie (Ted) Vaughn, Kerry (Michele) Hammond, Kevin (Teri) Hammond; brothers and sisters. Betty Dodds, Bob Hammond, Jess Hammond. Sharon Alfrey and Larry Hurley; step­ children. Jeff (Wenda) Newhouse. Jill (Rich) Frieling; Joel (Pam) Newhouse; 12 grandchildren; five great grandchildren and many extended family members. Bud graduated from Montpelier High School in Indiana in 1954 where he met Carole. They were married in September that same year. Bud worked for Bell Fibre Products his entire adult career. He began working in the factory and was transferred to Grand Rapids, in 1961 as a cost estimator. Through the years, he became one of their lop salesmen, eventually becoming a sales manager and then director of sales before his retirement in 199^ After retirement, he worked at Barry County Lumber in Hastings. Bud and Carole lived on Wall Lake in the summers and wintered in Mission. TX for 20 years and also Englewood, FL for a short time. After Carole’s passing in 2013 Bud married JOycc whcre they resided in Hastings, and Port charlotte, FL­ Bud enjoyed life and had many hobbies through the years such as golfing, painted beautiful artWOrk \voodcraft Pn,Jeets und enjoyed Watching’his favorite sports teams. ^ Detroit Tigers and Mons. He »as a kind cannF and thoughtful man who was loved de*ply by his family and friend” Hud and j"X This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, lhe churches and these local businesses: oyfnh VA MV Hw SSKT 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 1301W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 A 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 program. logether, the Barry Community I oundation and Barry County United Way established an Emergency Disaster Fund to assist with erner- gency needs like COVID-19. To contribute fO this fund, visit www.barrycf.org or ww beunited way.org . of emergency services for For those in need loud. rent, utilities, or other necessities, call 2-1-1 or the Barry County United Way m 269­ 945 4010. the community . _ Executive Director of the Barry County United Way Iumi Forbes said.”Our communi­ ty is extremely generous and we arc than Ju for those who are choosing to support not only our local front-line workers, but also our local small business economy. The dollars spent on gift cards are going directly back in to restaurants across Barry County to ensure that they can survive this difficult time as WOODLAND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 203 N. Main, Woodland. Ml 48897 • (269) 367-4061. Pastor Kathy Smith. Sunday Worship 9:15 am HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of Who jesus Is To The World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy.. P.O. Box 8, Hastings. Telephone 269945-912L Email hastfmcfo gniail com. Website: wwwJiasb inpMreemethtxlist com. Pastor Brian Teed, Student Ministries Director, Emma Miller, Wor­ ship Director. Martha Stoetze). Sundays: Nursery and tod­ dler (birth through age 3) care provided. SUNDAY MORN­ ING FAMILY HOUR WEL­ COMES ALL AGES AND STAGESOFLIFE AT 9:30 a.m. Deep Blue. Loving God. Loving Neighbor Preschool age 3-5th Grade. Live: 6th-12th Grade. Adult Standard and Adult Elective classes. Coffee Talk: Fellowship Hall. Cookies at 10:05 am. Worship Service: 10:30 am. & Children's Church age 4-4th grade dis­ missed during service Youth Group at 6 p.m 2nd Tuesday: Young \\ omen’s Small Group, 6 p.m. Wednesday: Women’s Bible Study 6.30-7:30 p.m KID'S CLUB. Feb. 5lh-March 18th. 6:3()-7;45 p.m. Thurs­ day: Adult Bible Study 10 am. For more information please contact lhe church or follow us on face book. have chosen lo supfmrt local restaurants as well by purchasing gift cards and handing them out at the Hastings Fresh Food Initiative >arry County P^sbyterian Church in Hastings ,afSl..’)pr,nS where there will be a celebr>’n of life at a later date ’ k 1" lieu of cards an(| can I* made lo th,- \ ■ tn Cn«c,r s'Klcty or ">e First Presbyterian Cl««vh "aS"l’KS- Ca« 269-945’9554 for Hastings Banner a*18 Give taste a chance Dr. Universe: Why do I like buffalo wings and not broccoli? Joe. 10. New York City. N.Y. Dear Joe, You’re not alone. I think a nice, meaty buffalo wing sounds great. Humans are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and meat. They’ve developed a taste for all kinds of things growing and living all over the world. So where do individual people’s preferences come from? To find out. I visited Carolyn Ross, a professor of fcxxi science at Washington Slate University. Like you. she is curious about why people like the foods they like. You probably got part of your preferences from your human ancestors. Humans tend to seek the taste of fat. sugar and salt. 'Fliese ingredients are more scarce in nature, but abundant in foods we cook today. (Thai’s why it can be hard to stop at just one buffalo wing.) Your individual experiences shape your tastes in a big way If you’re familiar with a food and have good memories of it, you’re more likely lo keep eating it. But your genes also have an impact. Genes are like instructions written inside lhe body, which you get from your parents. They affect all kinds of things about you, including the way some foods taste. That’s why some people think cilantro makes a great addition to tacos, and some think it tastes like soap. Your genes might even make you a “supertaster” someone very sensitive to biller tastes. Your tongue is covered in little bumps called taste buds. Taste buds help you sense the flavor of what you’re eating. Humans* taste buds can detect five basic flavors: Sweet, bitter, salty, sour and umami (a savory, meaty taste.) Supertaster.s have more taste buds than most, making them more sensitive to different tastes. About 25 percent of people in the U.S. and Canada have a supertasting tongue. It’s possible you’re one of them. Supertasting might seem like a superpower. . “But being a supertaster is a gift and a curse because you’re very' sensitive, Ross said. Sweet things taste sweeter, but bitter things taste much more bitter. Broccoli is one of the foods supertasters tend to dislike. “Supertasters find broccoli to be more bitter than people who are not supertasters and may eat less of it, at least when they’re younger. They also find cheddar or aged cheese to be exceptionally bitter. Their food choices are somewhat based on that.’’ Ross said. If you’re a supertaster, you might always find broccoli to be too bitter. Even regular rasters find there are some foods they never love. To this day, Ross doesn’t like raw broccoli. But your tastes also might change over time It takes about six tries before your like or dislike for a food becomes a stable preference. So give it a few more tries. Check in with your tastes now and then. You might find a food you once hated eventually becomes enjoyable Dr. Universe Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an entail to Washington State University’s resident scientist and writer at Dr.UniversetS-wsu.edu or visit her website, as lairun iverse .com. Financial FOCUS Provided by the Barry County offices of Edward Jones ” Brandon Wilkins 307 E Green St, Ste. 1 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-2003 Member SIPC Kevin Beck, AAMS® 400 W. Slate St, Suite B Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-4702 Watch out for financial scams related to virus On one kind, lhe coronavi­ financial health, accountability fers can bring you nothing but rus has brought out the best in and transparency. trouble. AH investments cany us. People across the country • Products claiming to risk of one type or another, and are pitching in to help others, pres'ent or cure the disease ~~ they typically don’t come with from providing protective When there's a real treatment guarantees, although some do masks to health care workers or vaccination tor COVID-19, offer significant protection of to holding video chats with it w ill be big news, and y ou w ill principal. In these turbulent confined residents of assisted hear about it. Until then, ignore times, your best move is to living homes to simply buy­ any claims for pills, potions, stick with a long-term invest­ ing gill cards to .support local prescriptions or other products ment strategy based on your businesses. On the other hand, that promise “miracle” cures. goals, risk tolerance and time a small number of bad actors Not only will they waste your horizon. are Liking advantage of lhe sit­ money, but, if you click on I lere’s one more suggestion: uation to try to defraud people. attachments from “phishing” Warn your elderly relatives How can you gtLird against emails advertising these fake about the increased potential these virus-related scams? treatments, you could end up for scams. The elderly ate al­ For starters, lx? aware of supplying crooks with sensi­ ways lhe most susceptible to three common scams connect­ tive data, such as your online fraud, and now, when they ed to die coronavirus: account logins, passwords, and may be more isolated than • llebsitef claiming to credit card ;uid bank account before, tlicy may well be even help and track the fkindcmic details. You can find a great - Lixik out for websites that deal of health information on more vulnerable. So, make sure you’re talking to these claim to help you work re­ the \ ims at the Center for Dis­ loved ones, and urge them not motely or provide finiuicia! re­ ease Control website (www. to make any sudden, uut-ofsources lo die afflicted. These cdc.gov ), of course, but if you the-ordinary financial moves. sites may try to trick you into or your loved ones are feeling Fxen in nonnal times, it’s giving up personal infonnaill, please contact a physician. regrettable that wc have lo be lion, donate money or load • "Risk-free'' or "guar­ on the alert for scam artists •• malwiirc onto your computer anteed" investments - The and it’s even more unfortunate Don’t trust information lechcoronavirus has caused two during a period of national cri­ nolog) (IT) “helpdesk” agents separate, but related, areas of sis. 1 lovwvcr, by being reason­ you don’t know. And check stress. Hie first is lhe health ably v igilant, and by taking the out any obscure organization concern, and lhe second is die proper precautions, you can claiming to help virus victims. financial••'inv cslntenl comjx> avoid taking on the “collateral You can easily find m.uiy le­ nent. The enormous volatility damage” tliat can occur in litis gitimate groups that actually of the financial markets has work to alleviate suffering. caused much concern among environment. Inis article was written by «ind that deserve your supinvestors, and scammers are |xvn. ’Io find these reputable seizing the opportunity lo of­ Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial organizalions, go to an online fer “nsk-lrcc” or “guaranteed” Advisor clearinghouse, such as char­ invcsuncnts ‘'perfect” for this I.dwaixl Jones. Member ity rijvigaLor.org, which rates particular time. Again, re­ thousands of groups on their minding to these types of of­ S1PU. �Tho Hastings B^nnpr -■ Thursday, Ann' 2. 2020 — Pago 7 Fact sheets offer policy recoin nictations to build on state and federal action As the COVID-19 cmis ................. r. pea-ussK.ns i„ ^Hld-the Michigan Ixaguc torkbl cP P has issued a new sci <>l no|ic...ol'c> lions lo help keen Miehie-in „■ ' \ OInnle,1^a‘ and economical!v stable. *** C”IS hcaJlh> The i eague has produced seven fact sheets available at mlpp.org - |<x,kin„ a,. ' l-ohcs needs through the |cns ? n s outbreak, outlining suggestions in child aux, food access, healthcare, housing paid sick and family leave, unemployment insur­ ant, and the states longer-term revenue pressures. 'v»vnuc . 7?, |C°h Pandcm‘c is one of the hugest health and economic crises to ever face our organization. our state and our CFO"-aid ’ We ’ JaC°bS’ ?’! PP Plvs5dent and ,k°’' d,‘ \ a’nimend the state and feder­ al action that has been taken so far, and want to do our part to guide decision-makers as these challenging times and important deci­ sions continue.” I hese policy recommendations take a look farther down the road, since the economic strains on workers and families and the fiscal strains on the state budget stand lo last long alter the virus is under control. “We’ve outlined policy proposals that can have an important impact now and in the future.” Jacobs said. "Healthcare coverage and paid sick leave can help flatten the upward cune of this outbreak, while our eco­ nomic policy recommendations can flatten the downward curve of an impending recession.” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has issued a num­ ber of executive orders and directives in response to the COVID-19 crisis and taking decisive action not only to tackle lhe health threat but also to help support workers and small-business owners. At the federal level. Congress has shown bipartisan leadership lo negotiate and pass the Families First Coronavirus Response Act and the CARES Act. Gov. Whitmer has signed executive orders to enable Michigan workers to benefit Food distribution sites in Barry County Taylor Owens Staff Writer Along with the food distributed to stu­ dents by local school districts, a number of resources provide food to adults in the com­ munity. At least one new distribution site has popped up recently. The Business in Barry Group started a food and supplies distribu­ tion site in Hastings. Travis Trudgeon said the site started in a tent near the offices of State Farm Insurance, but weather caused it to be moved inside. It is now al the entry way of Thomapple Credit Union. Nonperishable food items and toiletries can be dropped olT and picked up by local community members. Trudgeon said there is also an index card at the site for people to share information on dropping off other items, such as meat, directly at residences While mans sites have moved to curbside service and may be implementing some changes during (he state shutdown. Barry County United Way has provided a list of available sites as of this week. First United Methodist Church in Hastings continues food distribution with curbside pickup from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. every Wednesday. Maple Valley Community Center of Hope in Nashville operates every Tuesday from 9:30-10:30 a.m.. now with curbside service. Soups On in St. Francis Church in Shelbyville is on the first and third Wednesday of the month from 7-9 a.m. The Freeport United Methodist Church serves food at 10 a.m. every third Wednesday at 10 a.m. Middleville Local UAW #1002 distrib­ utes at 4 p.m on lhe third Thursday of the month. Kilpatrick United Brethren Church in Woodland also provides food at 9 a.m. every third Saturday. Micl»San le3,.?.Ar’ fe‘fcrolW19U. ..... ' d fvdcr:d budgct and C ,tc for «>und sla policy decidm1'- Call 2wv time to glace yops* Hastings Banner classified REQUEST FOR BIDS . -notice­ Notice ol Annual Meeting lo Members of Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, Hastings, Michigan: Notice is hereby given that the Annual Meeting of Hastings Mutual Insurance Company will be conducted via conference call on Wednesday. April 8, 2020 beginning al 9:00 a.m.. due lo the COVID-19 health situation. If you intend on participating, please call Debbie Kurtz (269-948-1538). The annual meeting agenda includes a ballot for the election of the following Directors: Christopher J. Fluke, John R. Kerschen and John I. Ward. Temporary Hours of < Operation: Monday-Saturday ? 10 a.m.-3 p.m. '< 945-9673 Tray Tor Our Nation ? QUESTIONS: ASK US.. Benefits will be paid ®n Sam® information to share. The agency continues to direct the public to its online self-service options whenever possible. Local offices arc closed lo the public but are available b\ phone. People can find their local field office phone number by accessing the Field Office Locator. To allow available agents to provide better phone coverage, lhe agency has temporarily changing the National 800 Number hours. New hours are now 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. local time. The agency is experiencing longer than normal wait limes on the 800 Number and asks the public to remain patient, use its online services at www.socialsecurity.gov. or call their local office. The agency’s COVID-19 web page, www. socialsecurity.gov/coronavirus/, will have important information and updates. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 269-945-9554 for more information. RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP APRIL 8,2020 TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING WILL BE RESCHEDULED Due to the COVID-19 Executive Order from the Governor lhe Rutland Charter Township Board Meeting scheduled for Wednesday, April 8.2020 at 7:00pm has been rescheduled for: Wednesday. April 29,2020 at 7:00pm. This notice is posted in compliance with PA 267 of 1976 as amended (Open ., Act) MCLA 41.72a(2) (3) and the Americans with Disabilities Act iyILC llllg-S (ADA). t Rul|and charter Township Board will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary’ L and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of aU 5 J i Heine considered at lhe meeting, lo individuals with disabilities fTFlfltCU JI»Ulv J * I * mecting/hearing upon seven (7) days notice to the Rutland Charter al 11 u ‘ \’lcrk individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services f owiwni t|ie a(Jdrcss or telephone number listed below, should contact uw . Robin J Hawthorne. Clerk Rutland Charter Township 7461 Heath Road Hastings. Ml 49058 (269) 948-219-4_________________________________________ !j - Street Surface Improvements Chip Seal & Fog Seal The City of Hastings is soliciting bids for the sur­ face improvements of city streets in Hastings, MI. The Bid Documents will be available at Hastings City Hall starting Monday, March 23, 2020. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City's best interest, price and other fac­ tors considered. Bids will be received at Hastings City Hall, 201 East State Street. Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 2:00 PM, on Thursday, April 16, 2020 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Bids will be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package - “SEALED BID STREET SURFACE IMPROVEMENTS”. 218 E. Stale St, Hastings Andrew Saul, commissioner of Social Security, reminds the public that Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefit payments will continue lo be paid on lime during the COVID-19 pandemic. Agency staff also reminds everyone lo be aware of scammers who try to (.ike advantage of the pandemic by try ing to trick people into providing personal information or payment via retail gift cards, wire transfers, internet currency. Scammers also may try to convince someone to mail cash in order to maintain Social Security benefit payments or receive economic impact payments from the Department of the Treasury. ’“Social Security will pay monthly benefits on time, and these payments will not be affected by lhe COVID-19 pandemic,” Saul said. ”1 want our beneficiaries to be aware that scammers may try to trick you into thinking the pandemic is stopping or somehow changing your Social Security payments, but that is not true. Don’t be fooled." The Department of the Treasury will soon provide information about economic impact payments under the recently enacted law. the Coronavirus Aid. Relief, and Economic Security Act. or CARES Act. The treasury department, not Social Security, will be making direct payments to eligible people. Please do not call Social Security about these payments .since the agency does not have CITY OF HASTINGS 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 945-9673 QP£f» 1t)*T -3 —__ [Tfulst Cleaners Pick-Up Station].. -...I $ Matt Gergen Director IH Public* Services 139593 TOWNSHIP OF PRAIRIEVILLE BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF PRAIRIEVILLE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSON’S: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE lhat the following is a summary of Ordinance No. 170, which was adopted by the Prai­ rieville Township Board al a regular meeting, held on March 30, 2020. SECTION I RFZONING OF PROPERTY IN LAND SECTION 36. The Zoning Map its incorporated by reference in lhe Prairieville Township Zoning Ordinance is hereby amended by rezoning an approximately 5,000 square foot area of land in Land Section 36. as described herein, from the ‘“‘R-l Low Density Residential District" zoning classification lo a ”C-I Rural Area Convenience Commercial District" zoning classification: PARCEL "Al": 25’ STRIP OUT OF 12-036-076-10 A PARCEL OF LAND BEING LOCATED IN THE FRAC­ TIONAL EAST 1/2 OF SECTION 36, TOWN 1 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST. PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP. BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN AND BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: COM­ MENCING AT THE EAST 1/4 POST OF SAID SECTION 36; THENCE SOUTH 81.18 FEET ALONG THE FAST SECTION LINE TO AND ANGLE IN STATE HIGHWAY M-43; THENCE SOUTH 88°30’ WEST ALONG THE CENTER OF SAID HIGHWAY 1009.30 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00=07’17" WI ST 100.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 88=25’47" WEST 25.00 FEET FOR THE POINT OF BEGINNING Ol THE PARCEL HEREINAFTER DESCRIBED; THENCE CONTINUING SOUTH 88=25’47" WEST 25.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 00°05’34’’ WEST 98.00| FEET; THENCE NORTH 88°12’18" EAST 25.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH OO°O5‘34" EAST 98.12 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. SAID PARCEL CONTAINING ±2451 SQ. FT. AND BEING SUBJECTTO EASEMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS OF RECORD.; and PARC’EL“B|”- *>5’STRIP OUT OF P-036-076-10 A PAR( F.LOF LAND BLING LOC/\TED IN 1 HE FRAC­ TIONAL EAST 1/2 OF SECTION 36\ TOWrN 1 NORTH. RANGF. 10 WEST. PRAIRIEVILLE 1OWNSHJP, BARRY COUNTY?MICH1GAN AND BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS 1 Ol LOWS: COM­ MENCING AT THE EAST 1/4 POST OF SAID SECTION 36; HU Nt. F. SOU HI 81.18 Fl 1.1 ALONG II IF EAST SECTION LINE TO AND ANGLE IN STATE HIGHWAY M-43: HII NCI SOU I II 88 TO’ WEST ALONG THE CENTER OF SAID HIGHWAY 1009.30 FI I T; nil.NCI. NORTH 00 07 I 7“ WF.SI 100 00 FEETFORTHEPOlNTOF BEGINNlNXiOl I Hl-PARCEL HLRFINAl T1 R DESCRIBED;TH1NCL SOUTH 88=25’47" W'l^ST^S 00 FEFT-Till NCL NORTH 00 05’34” WT SI 98.12’1 FF.L HU Nt I NORTH 88 I- 18 EAST 25.00 FEET; THFNCF SOUTH 00 05’34" FAST 98 24 Fl I T TO I HF POINT OF BEGINNING. SAID PARCI t CONTAINING ±2453 SQ F L AND BEING SUBJECTTO EASFMI N LS AND RESTRICTIONS OF RECORD. SliCIlOJlH Mi Vt'RAHII ITV. Hu- pnwi>ions of this Ordinance arc severable. St a iOSJll Rm.AI.OFAt I < ONI I K-TmoRHlN’ V*1 SJ ^■±ty£J><VO . Ml ordinance, or parts ol ordi­ nances in conflict heh:uilh are h«eby,replied. Tl.is Ordinance shall take etfect eight (X) day. alter it. publication. pl-IASli TAKE EURTIII R NOTICE that the full text of this Ordinance has been posted in lhe Oflieeot lhe Ptairieville T»»nshiP Clerk al the address set forth below and dial a copy of the Ordinance may lie purchased o: iii.pccl.d al the oilice of the Praineville lownship Cle.k during iegular business hours of regular working day. iollow.ng die date of this publu-1110” PRAlKil VILLI TOWNSHIP Rod (it'cbel, t lv*rk lol 15 S. Norris Road Delton, Michigan 49046 (>9)623-26h4 139711 �COVID-19 impact on city and its public servants v;- , ’..X'-CZT '3 WObA tfcHAWi-Sl MM. Brenda McNabb-Stange Mayor David Tossava City Manager Jerry Czarnecki Savanuh Kacchelc Contributing Writer With Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” executive order, citizens are limited to activities that protect or sustain life. No eating at restaurants, no movie theater - trips, no going to the mail, and unless deemed “essential” by an employer, no going to work. All of lhe restrictions that come with the executive order bring alterations to the lives of many individuals - including the elected officials of Hastings. Some Hastings City Council members recently shared how their lives have been altered, what their biggest concern regarding COVID-19 is, where they get their information and. perhaps most important!} - how every can help mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 virus. City hall staff has been taking precautionary ' measures to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Changes have been made to the normal operations. The city hall is closed to all non-employees. City-related payments are being made through the drop box. Meetings that haven’t been canceled or postponed are being conducted remotely, and the city hall staff has been reduced. “We are down to a skeleton crew.” Mayor David Tossava said. An employee checks the payment drop box . daily. The sewer and water plants still have to ;be manned, Tossava said, but they are being manned with little crew.The police department • still has a full staff, but lhe receptionists will I not be there. Tossava has referred lo the city . hall having a “complete slow-down." ' “Wc have cut way back to help protect our staff,” he said. “We don’t want everyone getting sick.” Council member Brenda McNabb-Stange ' said she is concerned about the effects this ' slow-down might have on the city and its . events. For example, spring clean-up is scheduled for April 13. “We’ll see how’ that goes,” she said. Many activities have been postponed. She mentioned lhe Barry-Roubaix bicycle race, and how’ it is rescheduled for the fall. “I gel concerned when things get canceled or delayed,” she said. City Manager Jerry Czarnecki said the constant flow’ of updated information regarding COVID-19 has had an impact on ’ DOM SMITH COJNCll MEMBER Don Smith planning in regard to decisions being made. “There’s not a lot of consistency," he said. “Decisions I’m making can change in as long as a day, (or] as short as a couple hours.” Council member Don Smith said lhat although the city had to alter its operations, the staff is prepared io keep providing services to citizens. “I feel confident that even if people get sick, our services will still run,” Smith said. Along with the changes at city hall come alterations to the official’s personal lives. Tossava has been limiting his interactions, while still performing his duties as mayor. He has been going to the city hall once a day to make sure everything is running smoothly, he said. Otherwise, he has been staying home with his family. “The governor tells us to stay home. That’s what we’re doing,” he said. He drew a parallel between the current situation and an old film. “It feels like the movie ‘Groundhog Day,’” he said. "We wake up. and it’s like lhe same thing every day. It’s almost like a daze.” Amongst other council members. Bill Redman. Al Janis. McNabb-Stange and Smith have been slaying home. Making trips to the grocery store is about the only activity they partake in. “We are pretty much hunkered down,” Bill Redman Jarvis said. For council member John Rcsseguie, lhe COVID-19 virus has had a rough impact on his family. A couple children in his family have health issues, including a 9-month-old who can’t receive a cardiac procedure until she is 1 year old Due to these family members being high risk. Rcsseguie said they’ve been on complete lockdown for two weeks now. Speaking for her busband, council member Don Bowers, was Lois Bowers, a member of the city’s planning dtamission. She said they have been staying home, considering Don is of high risk for illness from the COVID-19 virus. They have five daughters, and not being able io see their family is difficult. “It’s sort of lonely, but that’s how it lias to be,” she said. Czarnecki has also been limiting his activities and his contact with others. *1 come to work, go home, and that’s basically it," he said. All of the council members have worries related to the coronavirus threat. Redman and Resseguie, along with Tossava and Czarnecki, said they are most concerned about those who might be infected by the COVID-19 virus. “I think I have lhe same worries as everyone else: When is it going to stop, and who is all going to be infected," Redman said. “I know my family is protected because I'm here to protect them.” Rcsseguie said. "I can’t protect the whole world; that’s out of my hands. At that point, it’s in God’s hands.” For others, the uncertainty of the situation is worrisome. “Wc don’l really know a lot about it," Smith said. McNabb-Stange said she is worried for those on the front lines of the pandemic, the first responders and health care workers. She is most concerned wuh the hospitals and their ability to handle tin outbreak. If there are too many cases at one time, they won’t have the equipment lo provide services and keep themselves protected. In regard lo lack of supplies, she is also concerned about lhe lack of COVID-19 tests available. “If you go through a city like Hastings and test people, they could know who can go out and who can’t," she said. "Now, we have lo always assume that someone is infected or is a carrier without knowing it.” Smith is concerned with grocery store employees being exposed and getting infected. “If people get sick in the grocery store, what are you going lo do?” he asked. For Jarvis, his biggest conundrum now is lhe 25-voter signature requirement in order for him to run for re-election as a 1st Ward council member. “I’m definitely not going to go door to door and ask for signatures.” he said. If the stay-in order is in effect for the time period in which signatures are gathered, he will have to be a write-in, he said. General attitude is the biggest concern for Lois Bowers. “There arc too many people who aren’t taking it seriously,” she said. “If people would listen and do what they’re supposed to do, wc wouldn’t have to take any further steps.” While taking a break from the constant news stream is suggested, in situations like this, staying informed also is important. . From their respective homes, lhe council members collectively agreed on a simple but effective way to help mitigate lhe effects of the virus on the community: Slaying home. “If everyone follows what the governor orders, it’ll help slow’ this down,” Tossava said. McNabb-Stange said it’s hard for people to conform to the stay-in order. “People are social people; they want to be around others.” she said. “They want to do their normal routine." Along with McNabb-Stange, Smith and Redman recommended listening to lhe experts and following the guidelines. “Make sure you social distance,” Smith said. “Just stay home,” Redman said. “Let tins virus 'run its course/* ' Along with following guidelines, Resseguie said people can help out in other ways. “Help your neighbors.” he said. “I’d like to see more of that .” Individuals looking to help others may go through to the Barry County United Way and help with the Hastings Fresh Food Initiative, he said, which provides food lo residents in Barry County. “Donations there are needed.” Resseguie said. Although donating is one way to help your neighbors, keeping oneself safe can help those neighbors, too. "Stay at home and stay safe.” Resseguie said. “It’s all we can do to help our government gel this under control." State offering grants to manufacturers looking to produce critical supplies The Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Pure Michigan Business Connect program has launched a new grant program providing a total of SI million in grants to Michigan’s small manufacturers looking to retool and produce critical health and human service supplies in response to lhe COVID-19 outbreak. “Michigan has the manufacturing strength, innovation and determination to lead the charge in establishing an ‘arsenal of health to address the shortage of critical supplies we are facing as a result of the COVID-19 virus,” MEDC CEO Mark A. Burton said. “The PMBC COVID-19 Emergency Access and Retooling Grants program will provide imme­ diate assistance to small businesses around the state who are ready to step up and use their manufacturing know-how and retool to support recovery efforts in this time of need.” The program will award grants of $10,000 to SI50JXX) to companies that can quickly Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All r.,1 <« r P.tenuai’. <‘> n 'ke ...... A - business Services finsiness Services BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements. Discount for Seniors & Vet­ erans. 269-320-3890. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut. White O.ik, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. \\ ill buy single Wab nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging. (209)818-7793. MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears etc Call 269-804-7506 do you want QUALITY PRINTING at allondable prices? Call J-Ad Graphics at (269)945. 9551. ing them with demand identified through the and effectively manufacture critical health COVID-19 Virtual Procurement and Donation and human service supplies. Michigan small businesses (per SB/\ size standards) and Assistance portal. The portal, an effort of PMBC in collaboration with the State established nonprofits arc eligible to apply. Emergency Operation Center, is a free, virtual Businesses may use the funds to support procurement and donation platform that the purchase of equipment necessary to man­ ufacture critical supplies, logistic* and ship­ allows health and human service providers ping costs of procuring necessary’equipment, direct access to businesses within lhe state technology upgrades and other co^s related to providing and donating supplies including personal protection equipment, food, medical operationalizing new product lines. To qualify, companies must submit an devices, paper products, cleaning equipment application at https:/zpnibc.corncct-space/ and more. The platform also is offering a place for covid 19/forms. Eligible applicant wi,l reviewed based on ability to execute project, companies with manufacturing capabilities for personal protection equipment to indicate need for financial assistance, timeiness, prod­ which items (such as masks, gowns or venti­ uct need in market and economic impact. lators) they are able to produce, along with Applications will be reviewed on311 ongoing basis until lhe total $1 million in^1 fun^s* * rquantity and timing detail. More information is available at michiganbusiness.org/virtuare expended. More about lhe pro^ can found at michiganbudness.org/|<nbc*n^loo,■ mg-grants/. While the program does not gu^antec sales channels, the p^c Michigan Business Connect team will Assist granted connccl’ al-procurement/. Last week, the MEDC announced applica­ tions are now being accepted for the Michigan Small Business Relief Program, authorized by lhe Michigan Strategic Fund March 19, to provide up to $20 million in grants and loans to provide economic assistance to Michigan’s small businesses that have been negativelyimpacted by the COVID-19 virus. The funds are being administered by 15 local and non­ profit economic development organizations around Michigan, covering all 83 counties in the state. Visit michiganbusiness.org/msbrp for more information on how to apply. In addition, michiganbusiness.org/covidl9 also features other resources for businesses across the state lo assist them in recovering from economic losses as a result of the COVID-19 virus. This includes US. Small Business Administration emergency loans, support services offered through lhe SBDC and more. The MEDC has also developed a FAQ for Michigan businesses and communi­ ties ut michiganbusiness.org/covidt9-faq. Information around this outbreak is chang­ ing rapidly. The latest information can be found at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC gov,Coronavirus. Give the gift of NEWS! Send friends and family a gift subscription to The Hastings BANNER to subscribe, call us today * Scrti-d i* Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads 269-945-9554 �„. fl look back at the stories and columns on local history I*1 lhe Hastings Banner * / turning BACK THE I PAGES J5 Homebound adults can test knowledge on 1890s teacher exams -rvntiriy fFr/iirc.'; </ 3Ar*b‘. IM 2- Teacher’s Third Grade Certificate. its April 11, 1890. edition: “The following questions were propounded at the teacher s examination at Corunna March 6. 1890.” at 5di»l (fr,wares. of Alith.,^ to and Ifux imtrrtl a ixi litfactory exaniinati'in ui*>h all the to enlUlr.f^r^fi^lo Qjtcx&rt (SjediCicudbc* is therefore dremed qutdifitd to teach in the trhodn nf thie County far one year jrvni t!n.< ri’oA’. lodes; this Certificate dial! be tocner reivked or tus/iCH'lrd CeoJi.y. ./.0 CtHMryuhipJ? .7^ ,. 7f Gr>. firm lrufi«t Statri lti»h>< .. -.! $ ,Z4?..rtr !». K>*1 ) iMrtU 51! This teaching certificate, good for any school district in the county, was awarded Sept. 2, 1881, to Byron B. Willison, who taught for several years in Prairieville Township. According to the certificate, Willison “is a person of good moral character, and has passed a satisfactory examination upon all the branches required by law to entitle him a Third Grade Certificate. He is therefore deemed qualified to teach in the schools of this county for one year from this date, unless this certificate shall be soon­ er revoked or suspended." His grades: Orthography, [writing, spelling, language] 70; reading, 80; penmanship, 70; geography, 75; grammar, 70; arithmetic, 90; theory and art of teaching, 95; U.S. history (possibly) 85; government, (illegible or blank). The Following text from April 2, 1891, Banner simply had a heading of “School Column,” and below that: “Conducted by Enoch Andrus, County Secretary.” Rather than a homework assignment for local children, it appears to be a test or sample of a test for school teachers. One shouldn’t be fooled by the “grades;” the questions and knowledge base needed to answer them is well beyond elementary school. So. this might be a good assignment for adults who want to join local school children who are doing their work from home. READING (First and second grades) 1. Define good reading. 2. Give two ways of adding emphasis to a word. 3. Give your method for leaching begin­ ning reading and your reason for preferring the same. 4. Give the different ideas that can be brought out by emphasizing the different w ords of the following sentence: Did you give him a ripe orange? 5. Read a selection assigned by the examin­ er. PHYSIOLOGY (Third grade) 1. Of what are the bones of the Ixxly com- PT Describe the skull. How are the bones of the skull joined. 3. What do we mean by the term respira­ tion? What is the difference in the composi­ tion of venous and arterial blood. . 4. What is the difference between arteries 5 Define foods. What elements must lx contained in foods? 6. Give the number of teeth, cl. which they are divided. Give • into i * taking care of (he teeth. , . 7. Describe the salivary glands, and give the office of the saliva. . 8. Tell in detail how you would make an object lesson on the heart. 9. How would you teach (he el ()f a|co- hoi and tobacco? GEOGRAPHY (Third grade) , ms map. I. Explain (he meaning of the wrm e globe, meridian and horizon. e|,arates 2. What natural from Minnesota from Wisconsin. )i|)#? Kentucky? Georgia from ■ >“ Teheran. 3. Where are the ‘(iagen? The Nile. What has been ascertained within late years of its sources? Name two other rivers of Africa lhat flow into the Atlantic. 6. Name some of the principal islands of Oceania. What is the formation of many of the islands? 7. Name three of the principal seaports on the Atlantic Coast, one on the Gulf of Mexico and two on the Pacific coast, and the leading exports from each. 8. Draw a map of North America showing its principal mountain chains, five of its prin­ cipal rivers. Locate Yellowstone Park, St. Louis, Chicago, Washington. D.C., New Orleans and San Francisco. HISTORY (Third grade) 1. In connection with lhe exploration and settlement of this continent, mention an Englishman, a Spaniard, a Hollander, a Frenchman and the locality explored or set­ tled by each. 2. What historical event is connected with the following names: Oliver H. Perry'. Samuel F.B. Morse. DeWitt Clinton, A. Graham Bell, the Monitor, Tippecanoe, Brigham Young? 3. Mention five acquisitions of territory made by the United Stales. 4. By whom and for what purpose was Maryland first settled? 5. What two stales were admitted during the Civil War? 6. Name the six slates admitted to the Union since 1888. 7. Who was called the Great Compromiser, and why? 8. Who was president of the United States during the Civil War? Who was president of the Confederate stales? The first blood shed in the Civil War was on what anniversary of the Revolutionary War? 9. How would you teach history? What branches would you teach in connection with it? THEORY AND ART (Third grade) 1. Slate briefly how you would organize your school in a district where you had never taught before. 2. What mental powers are chiefly used in lhe acquisition of knowledge? 3. Give outline of method for securing good written work in school. 4. What is your method of awakening a spirit of investigation among your pupils? 5 Give the representative powers. Define each. # 6. Discuss any one of the seven leading principles of teaching. Dubuque, Dresden, BurBlack? following seas: Azol. (si ,jPsn)ania? Hie following islands. C)P A^higan. 4. Give outline ol lesson <'. o( tht5. Give an account of the tnuttdMtor After years of discussions, a formal school for local teachers was established, and the first Barry County Normal class graduat­ ed in 1905. The 14T.emy:r class included (front row. from left) Nellie Curtis, Woodland; Mary Landis. Woodland; Grace A. Waddell, Woodland; teacher Miss Harriet Peckham; Ruth A. Bachellor, Nashville; Allie M. Babbitt, Freeport; Floy J. Erway; (back) Lillian B. Knapp, Hastings; Emma I. Wightman, Hastings; Nellie E. Stebbins, Hastings; Ella L. Lathrop, Morgan; Grace B. Giddings, Hastings; Frances M. Seger, Freeport; and Emma M. Lathrop, Morgan. Minnie M. Lake of Nashville was ill and unable to be with the class when the photo was taken by H.J. Christmas. (Images from Barry County Historical Society's “Rural School History Bookshelf) The Dn'ovso Times had just a bit more of an explanation when it ran similar information in GEOGRAPHY 1. Name and locate at least 10 leading col­ leges and universities in lhe United States. 2. Name and local five groups of islands, five straits, five gulfs, five bays and five mountain systems. 3. Give sources, general direction and out­ let of each of the following risers: Nile, Ganges. Danube. Rio Grande. Oronoco. 4. Outline in full a lesson for an advanced class upon the Russian Empire. 5. Describe as briefly as possible Michigan — its drainage, natural features, cities, indus­ tries and commerce. 6. Describe your own county with regard to lhe same points, mentioning any other matters of special interest. 7. Name five principal railroads or railroad systems in Michigan. Name the most import­ ant points upon each. 8. What arc lhe znnpt? What are the limits of each? Why are they, so placed? 9. Outline what you know about the Republic of Brazil. 10. What are the causes of the ocean cur­ rents? Name some of the most important. THEORY AND AR I' OF TEACHING 1. Define education, instruction, training. 2. Give the reasons upon which the follow­ ing maxims are based: From the concrete to the abstract; from facts to principles. 3. How do lhe ends of a general school differ from those of a professional school. 4. Show how this difference should be maintained in the respective courses of study and methods of instruction. 5. In what sense is it late that all education is self-education? 6. Name several moral or virtuous habits which the public schools may fairly be expect­ ed to lead the child to form. 7. Name some methods of holding the attention of pupils during recitation. What methods do you principally employ ? Why? 8. What is meant by the laboratory method? To what extent has the principle of this appli­ cation to elementary' instruction? CIVIL GOVERNMENT 1. What are the principal differences between our system of government and that of Great Britain? Mention two respects in which our system is better than that of Great Britain. 2. What is the provision in the Constitution with regard to duties on exports? 3. What conditions make the U.S. Senate a Ixxly of greater dignity than the House of Representatives? 4. What is a quorum’ What issue has been recently made upon this question? 5. Explain the difference between filling state offices by election and appointment. 6. By which of the above methods is each of the following cho#n: Insurance commis­ sion, attorney general, auditor general, rail­ road commissioner, .superintendent of public instruction? . 7. Why is the speaker (he house of repre­ sentatives entitled lo 'n,e al all times of that Ixxly while the pres’afe1^ *n the senate has only a casting vote? 8. Explain how it hlPPc,,s that the execu­ tive and legislative dep«'r,,,‘ents of the state or national government m*l> under the control of different political p*rt’es9. Outline as for a ‘•’ass “'c powers and limitations of the statu und “ational govern ments. PHYSICS I. A gold ring ;.8,?qn';,",e “I’- l!r[specific rruvityl of 1 J 1 Uow much wKingwdgh^^'jnwate.7 2Explain the pn*Ji 1’> 'vl,lcl' d>e barometer indicates the 1,1 “ mountain 3 WhenanuAingl’t. t ’"Sh‘ *“ ™ by a st'...... ary body, energy that propelled *•’ ~ ' > 4. Give illustration of the three ways by which heat is diffused. 5. Why is little or no dew deposited under the trees of a forest? 6. In what ways may a sound vary? Explain. 7. Name three simple tools or implements each illustrating a different mechanical princi­ ple, and state what power each illustrates. 8. Give illustration of cohesion, adhesion, capillary attraction. GEOMETRY 1. Define a hypothesis, a corollary', an axiom. 2. Two triangles arc equal when lhe three sides of one are equal respectively to the three sides of the other. Demonstrate. 3. How do the diagonals of a rhombus bisect each other? Demonstrate. 4. If four quantities are in proportion, they will be in proportion by composition. Demonstrate. 5. Bisect a given angle and prove. 6. Similar polygons are to each other as. etc. Complete and demonstrate. 7. The area of a circle is equal to, etc. Complete and demonstrate. 8. Inscribe a regular hexagon in a given circle. Prove. Sources: Hastings Banner. Owosso Times, Library of Congress/Chronicling America, and Barry County Historical Society Barn,' County Rural School History Bookshelf. NOTICE OF INTENT TO APPLY TO USDA RURAL UTILITY SERVICE (RUS) Please lake notice that Barry’ Township will be submitting a preapplication for funding assistance to Rural Utilities Services (RUS), a Division of the United States Department of Agriculture. The initial application will be submitted on or around April 1,2020 for approximately $1.4 Million. The application is for RUS loan and grant monies to be used to finance a proposed elevated water storage tank in the Village of Delton. The project will include an elevated storage tank, watermain, and renovations to the existing wellhouse, if funding is available, construction would be expected to take place in 2020. Any written comments should be submitted to Barry Township, RO. Box 705, Delton, Ml 49046. SCHEDULE OF REGULAR MEETINGS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP BOARDS APRIL 2020 to MARCH 2021 Prairieville Township Board: Regular scheduled meetings are held on lhe 2nd Wedne.Mhy al 6:30 P.M. unless otherwise posted: April Canceled October 14 May 13 November II .lune 10 December 9 July 8 January 13 August 12 September 9 February 10 March 10 Planning and Zoning Commission: Regular scheduled meetings arc held on the 2nd Thursday of the month at 7:00 P.M. unless otherwise posted. April Canceled October 8 May 14 November 12 June 11 December 10 July 9 Januars 14 August 13 September 10 Park Commission: Regular scheduled meetings arc P.M. unless otherwise posted: February 11 March II Id on lhe 4 th Monday of each month at 6:30 April 27 October 26 May 18 June 22 Nos ember 23 Decern her 28 July 27 Januan 25 August 24 February 22 September 28 March 2 Zoning Board of Appeal*: Repute scheduled meeting. 7:00 RM. unless uthsDsoepsbled: e held on lhe ht Uedr esda) of the nu»n'Ji April Canceled October? Maj 6 Nov ember 4 June 3 December 2 July I January 6 August 5 February 3 September 2 March 3 Library Board: Meets the lit *1 Tuewlay «f «ch month at 1:30 P.M. �Pagfl 10 — Thursday. April 2. 2020 — The Hastings Banner Blood donors ready to roll up sleeves r W ,v ’ ■ VHB Kulman. spokesman for 'he Michigan chapter ■ • • : f 'hoiirllrr Greg Chandler Stuff Writer and Bridge Magazine As the number of COVID-19 cases contnv ucs lo grow across Michigan, residents a stepping forward to give blood to try to k P hospitals replenish their supply. At one point last month, blood banks University of Michigan Hospital m Ann,Arimr fell to just one day's supply, and “ Red Cross blood drives were being across lhe stale. But a st.iew.deRed Cro^ official said there has been a spike, lions recently, and he's encouraging tho t who want 10 donate to be patient becnti be a need for blood .seeks down the '""Blood donations are so important nght now as we go through this." sa.d Todd SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING March 11,2020 - 7:00 p.m. Regular meeting called to order and Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Bellmore, Spencer, Watson, Hawthorne, Greenfield. James, Walters AbsentNone Approved tne Agenda Approved the Consent Agenda Monthly Treasurer’s Report Monthly Clerk’s Voucher/Payroll Report Accepted Ord. #2020-175- for firs! reading­ Amendment to the JPC Ordinance pertaining to GAMPS Approved Resolution #2020-258 Road Millage Proposal for the Zuigust 2020 Ballot Approved Budget Amendment for new Building/ Zoning Dept. Secretary Payroll Cemetery road repair discussion Cemetery' Survey Discussion Adjournment 8:13 p.m. Respectfully submitted. Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Attested to by. Larry Watson. Supervisor Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 c! the revised judicature act of 1961. 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cash’er's check at tho place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM. on Apnl 9. 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest b.d al the sale does not automatically entitle lhe purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A poleniial purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this Information: Name/s) ol lhe mortgagors): Salhe Emen. an unmarried woman Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electrorvc Registration Systems. Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any); Ragstar Bank Date of Mortgage: August 20.2018 Date of Mortgage Recording: August 22, 2018 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $264,543.98 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Barry, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Beginning at tho 1/4 Corner common to Sections 22 and 23, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, thence North 00 degrees 10 minutes 32 seconds West, 1319.33 feet along the Section l.ne common to Sections 22 and 23, thence South 89 degrees 52 minutes 14 seconds East. 274.67 feet along the North line of the Southwest 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of said Section 23, thence South 43 degrees 43 minutes 30 seconds East. 456.56 feet, thence South 06 decrees 21 minutes 17 seconds West, 696 33 feet to the true Point of Beginning, thence North 89 degrees 52 minutes 29 seconds West, 220.00 feet, thence South 06 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds West. 200.00 feet, thence South 89 degrees 52 minutes 29 seconds East, 220.00 feet, thence North 06 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds East. 203.00 feet to the Point of Beginn.ng. Together with a private easement for ingress, egress, and public utilities purposes, 99.00 feet :n width described as: Beginning at a point on the East-West 1/4 line of Section 23, Town 1 North, Range 9 West, distant South 89 degrees 52 minutes 29 seconds East, 255.97 feet from the West 1/4 corner of said Section 23, thence North 06 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds East, 99.59 feet, thence South 89 degrees 52 minutes 29 seconds East, 454.00 feet, thence South 00 degrees 07 minutes 31 seconds West. 99.00 feet, thence North 69 degrees 52 minutes 29 seconds West, 464.81 feet along said East-West 1/4 line to the Point of Beginning. Also: Commencing at the West quarter post of Section 23. Town 1 North, Range 9 West; thence South 89 degrees 52 minutes 29 seconds East 475.97 feet along the East and West Quarter line of sa'd Section 23; thence North 06 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds East 229 59 feet for th* Piace of Beginning; thence continuing North 06 degrees 21 minutes 17 seconds East 100.00 feet; thence Nonh 89 degrees 52 minutes 29 seconds West 120.00 feet, thence South OG degrees 21 minutes 18 seconds West 100.0 feet; thence South 89 degrees 52 minutes 29 seconds East 120.0 feet to tne Piace of Beg nn:ng. Common street address (if any): 2850 W Leinaar Rd, Delton, Ml 49046-9567 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance witn MCL 600.3241 a: or, if the subject real property is used fcr agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600 3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL GOO 3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys tho property at the mortgage foreclosure t>a'e or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period Attention homeowner: It you are a mflitary service member on act ve duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 99 days ago. or if you have been ordered to active duly, please contact the attorney for tne party foreclosing tne mortgage at the telephone number slated »n this notice. TTJs notice is tiom a debt co’loctot. Date of notice- March 12. 2020 Trott Law. P.C 31449 North western Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248)642-2515 1412337 (03-12X04-02) 133504 . r» < of the American Red Cross. But vomc residents say they ve been frus­ trated in trying to schedule donation appoint­ r'K ments online. . , Ypsilanti resident Brit.iny Allolter-Came said she checked her local Red Cross donation center’s website several times, but couldn’t find any openings. Assuming there was a problem with the website, she decided to make a walk-up donation. To her surprise, she said, several people were already lined up at the door when she arrived. All of them were told there were no appointments left ami had to schedule for another time. Lhe earliest appointment Afiolter-Caine could make was April 8. she said. STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate FILE NO. 19-2B299-DE Estate of Helen Detke. Date of birth: 03-26-1947. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Helen Delke, died 06/17/2019. Creditors of tho decedent arc notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to James M. Kinney, personal representative, or lo both the probate court at 214 N. Broadway, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 3/27/2020 James M. Kinney P57750 214 N. Broadway Hastings, Ml 49058 269-945-8000 James M. Kinney 214 N. Broadway Hastings. Ml 49058 269-945-8000 139655 NOTICE Daniel J. Sweda & Associates. PLLC 21650 West Eleven Milo Road. Ste. 200. Southfield Ml 48076. Attorneys. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR YEAR. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 248-973-8737. Attention homeowner: If you are a military* service member on active duty, if your penod of active duty has concluded Jess than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE BY ADVERTISEMENT -Default has been made in the conditions of a Mortgage granted by Stanley S. Lawrence and Linda K. Lawrence, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Associates Home Equity Services. Inc., as mortgagee, dated September 11. 2000 and recorded on September 21. 2000 in Liber Instrument No. 1049805 Page 1, Barry County Records, Ml. and assigned by an assignment of mortgage to AJ Capital Ventures LLC, as assignee, as documented by an assignment of mortgage recorded on May 30. 2019, in Instrument Number 2019-005191. Barry County Records, Ml, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due as tho date hereof Ninety Nine Thousand Nine Hundred Th rty Four and 77/100 Dollars ($99, 934.77), plus interest, late fees, and attorney’s fees, each of which continues to accrue. Under the power of sale contained in sad mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them. Notice of foreclosure by advertisement. Notice is hereby given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212. that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding at the circuit court In Barry County. Ml starting promptly at 01:00 PM on April 23, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater than tho date of the sale. Piecing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company either of wh'ch may charge a fee for this information. Said premises are located in Barry County, City of Battle Creek, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: A parcel of land in the Southeast Ya of Section 34, Town 1 North. Range 8 West, described as: Beginning at a point In lhe center line of State Highway M-37, which point is 27 rods North along the center line of sa'd Highway from the South Imo of said Section 34; thence East 493 feet; thence North 2 degrees 52 minutes East 99.1 feet; thence West 494.5 feet to tho center line of said highway; thence South along center Ime of said highway to the place of beginning. Property Address; 15595 South M-37 Hwy., Battle Creek, Ml 49017 Tax ID 09 034-012 00 fire redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241 a in which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from tne date of such sale ot 15 days from the MCLA 600.3241 a(b) notice, whichever is iatCf or extinguished pursuant to MCLA 600 3238. If the above referenced property it. sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower wilt be responsible to the person who buys tho property at the mortgage foreclosure safe or to the rnonqaa hodr- for damaging the property during j?* redempben period. TO ALL PURCHASERS This sale may be rescinded by the forecios.n ’ niortgigi >j. in that event, your damages if r hci. bo limited solely to the return cf tlreb'dairau/i tendered at safe, plus interest Dio purchaser sh-u have no further recourse against the Mortnan^ Ute Mortgagee or the Mortgagees attorney Capita! Ventures ILC Dated March 23 Jnon Dan.el J. Sweda & Associates, Pile Attomr ' for MortgagecVAssIgnee. 21650 West Efeven mS Rourt, Ste. 200, Southfield Ml 48076. Ph ori{. 2*18Phone 937-8737. e ~ ’8' (03-26X04-16) “I think that lhis " a time where |X-op!e a ___ _ s .- wherc wnntin,, ... lx. . . something, . .thinrr. and m wanting to able' to do [donating blood| secins like something they can actually do” Affolter-Caine said. 1II the Cross is s;rUgffiug ... I think it could have some long.tcrTn consequences A Red Cross bkxxl drive is scheduled today at the Hastings Elks Club. 102 E Woodlawn Ave., from t| am (o 4;45 p.m., but by Tuesday evening all appointment slots had been filled. The Verxiti Blcxxl Center of Michigan will host a drive from 10 a.m. to 3 P nl- Friday al Emmanuel Episcopal Church. 315 W. Center St. in Hastings. “Currently our donation sign-up sheet is full, but there could be a possibility for walk­ ins, said Cynthia Stannard, an account repre­ sentative for Versiti’s regional office in Ponage. Stannard added that she is working on possibly another upcoming drive for Barry County, but details have not yet been final­ ized. Emmanuel Church is not holding worship services or other community activities until mid-May al the direction of the bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan, “but he has approved of using Ute church for a blood drive.” Rev. Linnea Stiflcr. rector of the church, said. Versiti supplies blood to Spectrum Health Pennock Hospital. Pennock spokeswoman Morgan Rademacher said the hospital’s sup­ ply is “in the green,” while Stannard says the supply is “so far, so good.” “We will really need blood drives in June, July and August because surgeries will be LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the matter of the Kenneth R. Postma Trust. Date of birth: 06/27/1929. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Kenneth R Postma, d ed 01/16/2020. There is no personal representative of the decedent’s estate to whom Letters of Authority have been Issued. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the Trust will be forever barred un'ess presented to Deborah L Borst and Tonya L. Coles. Co-Trustees of the Kenneth R. Postma Trust under a Trust Agreement dated March 15. 2018, within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 03/25/2020 Miller Johnson Lauretta K. Murphy P41984 45 Ottawa Ave., S.W., Suite 1100 Grand Rapids. Ml 49503 (616) 831-1700 Deborah L. Borst Tonya L. Coles 2907 Parkside Dr. 6860 - 108th St. S.E. Jenison, Mi 49428 Middleville,Ml 49333 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF KENT 17TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT FAMILY DIVISION ORDER FOR PUBLICATION ON HEARING TO: ASHLEY RENAE HEILMAN. Childs Name. Nevaeh, Ryan and Lindsey Slater. Case No.: 20-50595-NA-104728502; 20-50596NA-104728501: 20-50597-NA-104728503. Hearing: April 28. 2020 at 10.30 a m. Judge: Elmore, 6th Floor, Courtroom 6-D. An initial and/or supplemental child protective petition has been filed in the above matter. A hearing on the petition, including a permanency planning hearing, will be conducted by the Court on tho date and time staled above in tho 17th Judicial Circuit court. Family Division, Kent County Courthouse, 180 Ottawa NW. Grand Rapids, Michigan. Tho permanency planning hearing will result in tho child (ren) being returned homo, continined in foster care, or tho court may order proceedings to terminate parental rights. IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED that you personally appear before tho court at the tmo and place stated above and exercise your right to participate in the proceedings. This hearing may result in a temporary or permanent loss of yoUf nght to tho child(ren) Dated: March 30. 2020 Deborah J McNabb Circuit Court Judgy 139702 SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Regular Mooting March 30, 2020 Supervisor Stoneburner called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m n Present: Clerk G^bel, Treasurer Pence Supervisor Stoneburnsr. Trustee VanNiman & Trustee BOrd0n Agenda and February12 Minutes were approved. Public comments if 3W WQre received. Budget Hearing called to order, ail present, public comment wis received. Approved: R^Sllon 2020-2: _ General Appropriations Act and Budget Ru~c!ution 2020-3-' Investment Policy Personnel Pay senedufe Township MwAbni Schedule: . Canceled An,-,i 2«a pegufer Board and Planning Co-n^' B. F'*». Po'.^ r.po^ P'««lonMe. . ReS^80*- T*«^r' T,US,eeS ncPOrtsw,.Wt ^PP'oved pavi,,' H as' $74,202.23 "pprovea 2019.202O Budget Adjustments Approved Zon-na cyd nance Amendment # 170 we'° Su&bW^”8:2Spm 139476 ,M7’° WWJ-T occurring again. Elective surgeries arc on hold for now," Stannani said. ’’Summer months arc always high need for blood dona tion as wc get 30 jxrrccnt of our bkxid from our high school biotxi drives. When they arc not in session, it hurts our blood supply.” Another Red Cross bkxxl drive is sched­ uled Monday, April 13, at St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Delton, from 11 a.m. to 5:45 p.m ; and one is planned Thursday. April 30, at Grace Community Church on .M-79 in Nashville, from noon to 5:45 p.m. Kulman said now is the time to schedule an appoint­ ment to donate. "Make an appointment for next week or the week after.” Kulman said. "The situation isn’t going to change this week. The bkxxl is still going to be needed next week and next month.’’ ’die Michigan chapter of lhe American Red Cross needs to collect about 700 bkxxl dona­ tions a day to keep hospitals stocked. Kulman said, Versiti need'* about 560 blood donations a day, spokesman Zach Warren said. Why are blood drives being canceled? There are nine American Red Cross blood donation centers and eight Versiti Blood Centers in Michigan. These centers arc nor­ mally bolstered by mobile drives, Kulman said, which are pop-up events to receive bkxxl donations in community centers like workplaces, churches and high schools. But as businesses and schools have closed statewide in response to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s emergency orders, lhe number of viable sites for mobile blood drives has dwin­ dled. Why can't I make an immediate appoint­ ment? The reduced number of donation sites has hampered the capacity to accept blood. Kulman said, leading to a smaller pool of immediate appointments. Michigan’s Red Cross and Versiti chapters are working to expand their reach, however. According to Kulman. Red Cross bkxxl donor centers will be extending hours, and some arc considering hiring more staff or volunteers. It’s a good idea to make an appointment a week or more in advance, Warren said, since the need for donations will only increase. The challenge. Kulman said, is increasing the number of mobile blood drives. Kulman encouraged anyone currently sponsoring community center blood drives to keep them open. “We’re working around the clock to increase our capacity to accept donations," Kulman said. "Those drives that are available. ... nerodibleou'^P": domilf I»I'X><1.’ ..^-at-home order Yes. The their homes (or allov.s residents “> ( rc;iS„n.s. which SIXS blood tfonalion centers and "X dse has supply been Red Crow have introduced .several new ro- their temperature rt between regularly. Versiti is providing only p.xk.^u food and drinks. . There are no reports or evidence that he novel coronavirus can be spreatI tbrouf. blood transfusions, Kulman said. c " j Food and Drug Administration has also stated that, in general, respiratory singes are not known to be transmitted through blood tran. If someone wants to donate blood, what s the best advice? Can I walk in if I can t get an appointment? Although walk-ins arc usually accepted at Red Cross and Versiti donation centers, sched­ uling an appointment in advance is preferable. “We don’t want to discourage walk-ins. but scheduling an appointment allows for our drives to run smoothly and eliminates wait times.” Kulman said. The best option is to make an appointment online, Kulman said, followed by calling X(XT RED CROSS. Red Cross donors can make appointments online 10 to 14 days in advance using the expanded blood drive search engine tool. Red Cross donors also can use the Blood Donor app, available for free on the American Red Cross website, which identifies the most current available blood drives nearby and schedules and tracks donations. To schedule a donation with Versiti. Warren recommended calling 866-642-5663 or visit­ ing the website versiti.org. where donors can search for appointments according to loca­ tion. dale and distance. Call center available for consumers with insurance, The Department of Insurance and Financial Services announced that its call center contin­ ues regular operations and remains prepared to assist Michigan consumers with insurance and financial services concerns, especially those individuals impacted by COVID-19. ‘ DIFS’ Office of Consumer Services is working remotely and stands ready to help Michiganders in need of assistance, especially with issues related to their health insurance and other coverages and financial services," DIFS Director Anita Fox said. “At a lime when consumers may be concerned about lhe impact of COVID-19 on their lives. DIFS is here to help.” The call center consists of representatives who can assist with insurance, banking, credit union, mortgage and other consumer financial concerns. The Office of Consumer Sen ices also has analysts available lo review com­ plaints against insurance or financial service entities. DIF'S encourages consumers to first attempt to resolve disputes directly with their insur­ ance and/or financial service providers. If a resolution cannot be reached. DIF'S Office of Consumer Services can help try* to resolve disputes. The live call center, which can be reached by calling toll-free 877-999-6442, is available Monday through Frida) 8a.m.-5 p.m. “Michigan consumers will not see a change in the way they obtain help from DIFS as wc work remotely," Fox said. "DIFS live call center team w ill continue to answer phones and address their needs." DIFS representatives can assist with: -Questions about health insurance coverage for COVID-19 treatment or testing. -Concerns about access lo telemedicine. -Questions about the servicing of loans or mortgages. -Questions about banks or credit unions and the availability of financial services during the COVID-19 pandemic. -Insurance agent or consumer finance licensing questions. -Questions about insurance policies, grace periods, and premium payment extensions in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic. -Appealing an adverse decision regarding a health care claim under the Patient’s Right to Independent Review Act. More information is available at michigan. gov /difs. by calling 877-999-6442 or emailing DIFSComphiints(«’inichigan.gov. XL Reporting History for the Future in 6 Barry County Area Newspapers • Lakewood News • Maple Valley News • Middleville-Caledonia Sun & News • Reminder • Hastings Banner Over 64,000Papers ■ Graphics Distributed Every Week! 1351 N. M-43 Highway • p.o. Box 188 Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone (269) 945-9554-Fax (269) 945-5192 �' • • ’ • ■ ■ ■ The Hastings Banner — Thursday. Apr.12,2020 — Pag® 11 ?ronson offers instructions on making homemade masks during the COV1IY (<) VriTJ hOmen,ad< Following are »;n. <- ' the masks. .w«dl as masks ,H1 f>* making They will convene the Mippk f ‘ pprop'riale are\Ls to (PPF3 lor areas i|*Vll L *^fV.O"a! <*IuiP»nent cquijwiienc. 1 ,n n,ctl»cal-gnule Honiv vewn masks aren't . rvni in n>.bks has e any ,j mp(l)n,s,™ladc awgh. short-nevs of |.n,1Ih) ’ C' 7' been exposed ™Gently symptoms or who has Iven tL .inung, ll,e'c COVID 19. 1 ftvted positive for Mask Templates Bronson s Patient Funik v ।. Counsel along with clinical staff m'embek' i"0^ collalwmtal on n>ask k-mpl.ue to bcsMit current needs. 1 1,1 The hospital i. currently in need ol la„.e !u|u|t and standani adult face masks. Masks made fn>m other templates will also lx* accepted. When received, the masks will be uaslted before betnj delivered to Bronson locations. Materials " l(X) parent cotton fabric outer laser: or inuslin. pillow ticking or cottotvpolj blent! if breathable. While.ivory, unprint-ed materii'l i*> best if available; Clean cotton bedsheets can be tbbd long as they are clean. unstained and breathable. • Cloth tor interior liner. Cotton di.i|KT cloth, cotton sheets or same material as using tor the outer layer. • 61 inches of either 3/8- orl/2-inch cotton twill tape. • Sewing machine. • Light colored thread. • Printed mask pattern. • Cutting device (scissors, rotary cutter with mat or CricuL'Silhouctte'craft culling machines). Donation Drop-Offs Bronson will lx* collecting the acceptable new/unused personal protective equipment, supplies and hand-sewn masks from businesses, organizations and community members at the following five locations Monday through Friday. I to 4 p.m.: • Battle Creek: Bronson Urology Specialists. 44-1! Capital Ave. SW. • Kalamazoo: Bronson Fast-Care. 6220 W. Main St. • Portage: Bronson Diagnos-tics at Wixxibridge, 2M0 W. Centre St. ttn.ks;n.lh ! 1.0Medicinc. <)U) nine Sh’.r Hign'ul-' All.taU>”^^ , . Masks mh;' ,K' ■!ble '» hold i,p ''" "wo'k in l> 'kh‘1' 'jj-(i*" man>>­ . teamwork «»h "'hex lf |(k.} ’vourhotne. . Every ni.’>k ntatfus- n,,,,! Ihank )ol, lhf Mping yoiir««"",uni’)jNsrRL'CTIONs . Wash all donated masks « i» Prq) l’cf0!l:i c''«mg it o„t. All ’>> the hospital ,, ... , , . c’Ikxjsc lhe hr’’< sJ;,»riard (medium) pattern, and print the pattern. lYmt the pattern on canl Mock, or tr.ice printed piece onto cartib()adfor^o,v-nin,>Pa,,?n. Cut multiple pieces o) the labnc pattern by foldin'’ doth into stacked Iajen>. Suggestion: Cutting four la>er> is easily done with a rotary­ before use115 cutting wheel. • Weigh the pattent down wnh heavy bits like lead weights.stones or knives. • If you have a Cricut or Silhouette cutting machine, the original designer has a file on its weissite which you can download to your machine for the standard adult masks (they have labeled as size large). • If using a primed fabric, be very careful to ensure that each layer is mirrored. Otherwise, die Print will be on the wrong side. • Use two pieces for each layer. Careful cutting in layers of two or four helps the alignment for the next step. Sewing • Stack the front faces of the fabric together. • Stitch the center seam of both pieces. • Hip the outer layer to right side out. • Slip the outer layer into lhe liner layer. ■ Open the mask and put the outer edges of the entire mask together. Pinning helps. • Stitch around the entire mask nt about 1/8 inches. Be sure to league a 2 inch opening along the bottom of the mask. • Turn your mask right side out using handy opening along the bottom. • Poke the comers out with a points, but not LEGAL NOTICES Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement CL ir UOL/t k. rrsGJs’i QUA Notice Is given under section 3212 of lhe revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to tho highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding tho circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on May 21. 2020. The amount due on tho mortgage may be greater cn tho day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at tho salo does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of tho property A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE: Mortgagoris): Sonja Rounds, a single woman Original Mortgagee; Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems. Inc. ("MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender s successors and assigns Date of mortgage: December 12, 2003 Recorded on December 17, 2003. in Document No. 1119420, Foreclosing Assignee (if any): NewRez LLC d7b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servic.ng Amount claimed to be due at the date hereof: Forty-Six Thousand Seventy-Six and 39/100 Dollars ($46,076.39) Mortgaged premises: Situated in Barry County, and described as: Commencing at tho Northeast comer post of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 11, Town 1 North, Range 7 West, thence South 670 feet, West 300 feet. North 670 feet. East 300 feet, back to tho point ot beginning. Commonly known as 11570 S Clark Rd. Bellevue, Ml 49021 Tho redemption period will bo 6 months from the date of such salo, unless abandoned under MCL 600.3241a, in which case tho redemption penod will bo 30 days from tho dato of such sale, or 15 days from tho MCL 600.3241 a(b) notice, whichever is later; or unless extinguished pursuant to MCL 600.3238. If tho abovo referenced property is sold at a foreclosure salo under Chapter 32 of Act 236 of 1961, under MCL 600 3278, the borrower will bo held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure salo or to tho mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption penod. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, cr if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney lor the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing Mortgagee/Assignee Schneiderman & Sherman P.C 23938 Research Dr, Suite 300 Farmington Hills, Ml 48335 248.539.7400 1414341 (04-02R04-23) 139739 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement corners Nobce Is given under section 3212 of tho revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212. that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of tho mortgaged premises, or somo part of them, at a public auction sale to tho highest bidder for cash cr cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM. cn April 16. 2020. Tho amount duo on the mortgage may be greater on the day cf sale. Placing tho highest bid at the sale doos not automatically entitle tho purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this Information: Namo(s) of the mortgagor(s): Michael R. Bernier and Sandra K. Bernier, husband and wife Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Tho Bank of New York Mellon, F/K/A Tho Bank of New York as trustee for registered Holders of CWABS, Inc., Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2005-9 Dato of Mortgage: Juno 30, 2005 Date of Mortgage Recording: July 14,2005 Amount claimed duo on date of notice: $141,597.72 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated In Township of Thomapple, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Lot 5, Thomapple Bend Estate as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, on Page 35. Common street address (if any): 8714 Big Bend Ct. Middleville, Ml 49333-8228 Tho redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sa’e. unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 a: or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property Is sold at foreclosure sake under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant lo MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be field responsible to the person who buys the property at tho mortgage foreclosure sale or to tho mortgage holder for damaging tho property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner; It you are a military service member on act.ve duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago. or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact tho attorney for tnt? party foreclosing the mortgage at tho telephone number stated in th's notice Ttus notice is from a dt?bl collector. Date of not»ce: March 19,2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1413324 (03-191.04 09) 139041 sharp, object • Dick lhe raw edging of the opening. Now, as you continue to sew around the entire mask, you’ll neatly close lhe opening. • Evenly attach one 32-inch tie lo lhe front of one side of the mask. • You did it! • Now, take your finished mask or masks to a safe donation drop-off location, as listed above. LEGAL NOTICES Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisem&nt Notice is q-ven under section 3212 of the revised juticature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236. MCL 600.3212, that lhe following mortgage y.-:.i bo foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged prem’ses, cr somo part of them, at a pub! c auction sale to the h ghest b'dder for cash or cashier's check a! the p ace of hc'd.ng the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on April 9, 2020. Pio amount due on tne mortgage may bo greater on the day of sale. P;ac<ng tne highest bid at the sale does net automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownersh p of the property. A potential purchaser ts encouraged to contact the county register cf deeds office or a title insurance company, either of wh ch may charge a fee for this information: Namefs) of the mortgagors): Joseph J. Rodriguez and Kimberiy S. Rodnguez husband and wife Onginal Mortgagee; Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems. Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/or assigns Foreclosing Ass:gneo (if any): NewRez LLC Oba SheHpoint Mortgage Servicing Date of Mortgage: November 26.2012 Date of Mortgage Recording: December 3,2012 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $62,634.69 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Vi'lage of NashviSe, Barry County. M:ch!gan, and desenoed as: Lot 69 of the Vfiage of Nashville, according to the plat thereof, as recorded in Lber 1 cf Plats cn Page 10 Common street address (if any): 223 N Queen St, NashvTe. Ml 49073-9323 Tho redemption penod shall be 6 months from the date of such sa'e, unless determined abandoned In accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or. if tne subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as def.ned by MCL 600 3240(16). If the property is sold at forec'osure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will bo he'd responsible to the person who buys tho property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner. If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, p'ease contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Dale of notice: March 12,2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Huts. Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1412460(03-12/04-02) 138605 Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for tho party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated In this notice. Notice of foreclosure by advertisement. Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act cf 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will bo foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM on MAY 21,2020. The amount duo on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register ot deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a foe for this information. Default has boon made In the conditions of a mortgage made by Carol Jean Risner, surviving spouse, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems. Inc., as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/or assigns. Mortgagee, dated October 4, 2006 and recorded October 18, 2006 in Instrument Number 1171615 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee, on behalf of the holders of the J P. Morgan Mortgage Acquisition Trust 2007-HE1 Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2C07-HE1, by assignment. There is claimed to be duo at lhe date hereof the sum of Sixty-Seven Thousand Six Hundred Eighty-Four and 66/100 Dollars ($67,684.66) Under the power of sale contained In said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice Is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at pubic venduo at the place of holding the circuit court within Bany County. Michigan at 1 00 PM on MAY 21.2020. Said premises are located in tho Township of Orangeville, Barry County Michigan, and are described as: PARCEL 1: LOT 39 OF LAPHAMS AIRPORT LOTS. BEING A PART OF SECTION 8. TOWN 2 NORTH. RANGE 10 WEST, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN THE OFFICE OF REGISTER OF DEEDS FOR BARRY COUNTY. PARCEL 2: LOT 57 AND THE NORTH 14 FEET Or LOT 40 OF LAPHAM’S AIRPORT LOTS. ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLATS THEREOF, BEING PART OF THE WEST 1/2 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 8. AND PART OF THE WEST 1/2 OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 8 TOWN 2 NORTH. RANGE 10 WEST. ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP. BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN 5797 Marsh Road, Shelbyville, Mich-gan 49344 The redemption penod shall bo 6 months from the date of such sale unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCI A §600 3241.l in which case lhe redemption period chaH be 30 days from the date of such sale. If tne property is sold at foreclosure sal®, pursuant lo MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be held responsible lo tho person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sa'e or to the mortgage ho’d.v for damage to the property donna lhe redemption period Dated; Apr.; 2,2020 File No. 20-003617 Firm Name- Orians PC Fnm Address; 1650 West B:g Beavof Road Troy Ml 48084 Firm Pnone Number. (248) 502.14Q0 (04-02X04-23) 13967b �?*"■........ Winter All-Ba .................—----------- County’s top grappler proved formidable foes Gabe Trick Ashton Corson Brett Bremer Sports Editor Barry County continued to be a wrestling hotspot during the winter of 2019-20. Thomapple Kellogg and Lakewood won conference championships this winter, with the Trojans battling through an undefeated OK Gold Conference season and tl»e Lakewood wrestlers putting together a perfect run through the Greater Lansing Activities Conference. Lakewood and Thornapple Kellogg both also won team district championships, the Vikings in Division 3 and the Trojans in Division 2. I^ikewood was led by the co-coaching duo of Bob Veitch and Ton) Hanner. For Veitch, the season was the last in a 40-year varsity coaching career that included more than SOO dual meet victories. Veitch got to put a state championship medal around two of his senior heavyweights at the end of the season in Ford Field - Jon Clack and Grant Clarkson both of whom are honored on the All-Barry County first team this season. AU five of Barry County’s varsity w restling teams were represented on the medal stand al Ford Held al the conclusion of the Individual State Finals wilh new stale qualifiers and mul­ tiple slate medal winners among the group. Here are lhe 2019-20 All-Barry Couniy Wrestling First and Second Teams. 2019-2020 All-Barry County Wrestling First Team 103 Ashton Corson. Thomapple Kellogg: Corson wrestled his way to a 38-6 record in his sophomore season for the Trojans, placing seventh in Division 2’s 103-pound weight class al the Individual State Finals. Corson won an OK Gold Conference cham­ pionship. and followed that up with district and regional titles as well. 112 Zack Gibson. Thornapple Kellogg: Gibson was 36-6 as a freshman this winter for TKj« pltK'ing seventh in Division 2‘s 112pound weight class at the Individual Stale Finals. He won an OK Gold Conference Championship and a district championship, earning his spot at Ford Field with a run­ ner up finish at regionals. 119 Zachary Gibson, Lakewood: A slate medalist for the second year in a row, Gibson placed fifth in Division 3’s 112-pound weight class at the end of the season. Gibson was the runner-up at his team’s district and regional tournaments, after win­ ning a GLAC Championship at 112 pounds. He closed out the season with a record of 44-5. 125 Kanon Atwell. Lakewood: Atwell earned a stale medal at the conclusion of hrs senior season, placing sixth in Division 3’s I l9-jx)und weight class at the Individual Suite Finals. Atwell was 41-6 on the season. He took lhe GLAC championship at 119 pounds, and was a district runner-up. 130 Kyron Zoet. Thomapple Kellogg: Zoet qualified for the Individual State Finals as a freshman this winter, scoring a third-place district finish and a fourth-place regional medal. Zoet was 39-11 on the season. He was the Complete Family Practice Services • On-Site Lab Sen ices • On-Site Physical Therapy • Medication Management Service 1 hvtiiih AL HoliiuJit, M.l), Prut ticw*family medicinefor tr.\ r JJ; vom • 2019 Grand VJley State University Preceptor Award • Governor's Award of Excellence recipient IklhHughwCAitvr.DN^RN; BC-GNT Xurse Practitioner Hunter Belew Grant Clarkson OK Gold Conference champion al 125 pounds. 135 Jesse Brumm. Maple Valley: A junior. Brumm earned his third stale medal this sea­ son by placing third in Division 4’s 130pound weight class at the Individual State Finals last month. He put together a 48-2 record on the season. Brumm won conference, district and regional titles on his way to Ford Field. A team captain, head coach Tony Wawiernia called Brumm an excellent leader in lhe prac­ tice room and on the mat. He’s a hard-work­ ing young man who is very good with tech­ nique. Wawiernia said. 140 Robby Slaughter. Hastings: Slaughter had an outstanding0freshman season putting together a record of 38-4. Two of his four defeats were to eventual state medalists al his Division 2 Individual District Tournament. Slaughter was the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference champion at 135 pounds. He led the Saxon team in wins. P,ns*team P°,nls ant* take downs this winter- A perfect attendance award winner for the Saxon team. 145 Keegan VanMstine. Lakewood: VanAlstine was an Individual State ,n Division 3 this winter- compiling a 30-11 record. VanAlsiine was tk Gl AC ,u""er “P 31 l4? pounds this season, ,T ,. 152 Gabe TrickTridi “K? °ff his senior campaign by ph*** r,flh Aviston 2‘s 14i).,;)UnJ weigh' a,u' finishing as a runne( uP at his dlstr ‘"U “ha^’^ill record of this Wason. He was the In'ersiaie 8 Athlatc • 1 ocusingun Adult Medicine, Dhbeto and Menopause .Management • BiuulG-ftiiicd Gt rati I- S’ww Practitioner » .. ...... ®P“<>n. bu|| waif 33-1j as a scl"01 ‘ "S < ull (n<l;n In sc hrdule >11111 ;ip|ioinlmviil tlb'li 'M5..U0I rDu" “a'W0-llme individual ,Cg'0"t"' *>5 S M3’ Hw v. Suite ‘ Hastings. Ml >n,C,1Ia'e ehanjut. a> '«» P<’“"d' w inter. A perfect attendance award w inner for the Saxon learn. 171 Hunter Belew. Delton Kellogg: Belew made his second appearance in lhe Individual State Finals as a junior this winter, placing fifth in Division 4’s 171-pound weight class. Belew won conference, district and region­ al championships this winter, compiling an overall record of 44-6. 189 Jon Clack, Lakewood: Clack closed out one of the best careers in the history of lhe Lakewood wrestling program by winning the l89-jx)und slate championship in Division 3 at the Individual State Finals, finishing his senior season with a record of 52-0. Clack surpassed the 150-win total for his varsity career, sei a new Like wood record for pins, and of course won conference, district and regional championships on his way lo his undefeated state title. 215 Caden Ferris. Delton Kellogg: Ferris followed up a stale medal winning perfor­ mance as a freshman by qualifying for the regional round of lhe slate tournament as a sophomore this winter. Ferris won conference and district champi­ onships. closing oui his sophomore year with a record of 41-3. 285 Grant Clarkson. Lakewood: Clarkson completed his climb up lhe medal stand at the slate finals his senior year, capturing the 285pound championship al lhe Division 3 Individual State Finals at Ford Field in March. Clarkson was 404) on the season, after get­ ting a late start as he recovered from an injury. He won conference, district and regional lilies on his way lo Fond Field. Clarkson was also a third-place stale medalist as a junior in 2019. 2019-2020 All-Barry County Wrestling Second Team 103 Gage Ertman. Maple Valley; Ertman finished off his senior season on the medal stand at Fold Field, placing eighth in Division 4’s 103-pound weight class at the Individual State Finals. Ertman won a district championship and was a regional i miner up on his way to the stale finals, after winning the 103-pound weight class at the Greater Lansing Activities Conference Tournament. Ertman earned a 41-11 record on the season. 112 Hunter Pitsch. Thomapple Kellogg: Pitsch qualified for the Division 2 Individual State Finals as a sophomore at 103 pounds this winter. Pitsch put together a record of 23-15 this season, placing third al districts and fourth at regionals. 119 Matthew Slaght. Maple Valley: A soph­ omore, Slaght qualified for the Individual Stale Finals for the second time this winter, scoring a district runner-up and a third-place regional finish in the state tournament. He was a runner-up in the GLAC this sea­ son. He finished lhe season w ilh 21 viclories after gelling a laic slarl due to an injury. 130 Mason Denton. Hastings. Denton com­ piled a record of 31-14 this winter, winning a championship al lhe Saxons’ annual LH Lamb Tournament. Demon placed third at his weight class in lhe Interstate-8 Athletic Conference this sea­ son. He is a perfect attendance award winner for the Saxon team. 135 Andrew Middleton. Thomapple Kellogg: An individual regional qualifier in Division 2 as a freshman this winter. Middleton placed second in rhe OK Gold Conference and fourth at his team’s individual district tournament. Middleton won 24 matches this w inter. 140 Austin Chivis. Thomapple Kellogg: Chivis was 37-9 as a freshman this winter, winning an OK Gold Conference champion­ ship at 135 pounds. Chivis was an individual regional qualifier in Division 2 scoring a third-place district finish. 145 Matthew Middleton, Thomapple Kellogg: A sophomore, Middleion won lhe OK Gold Conference Championship al 145 pounds and went on lo qualify tor the Division 2 Individual State Finals. Middleion was a district runner-up and a fourth-place regional finisher who won 17 matches overall on the year. 152 Vein Fields, Lakewood: An individual regional qualifier scoring a fourth place finish al his team’s Division 3 Individual District Tournament. Fields was 319 overall this season. 160 Gavin Vaughn, Lakewixxk Vaughn was an individual regional qualifier this win­ ter. He put together a record of 32-5. A freshman, Vaughn was the GLAC cham­ pion al 160 pounds. Continued next page �Tho Hastings Barner — Thursday. April 2. 2020 — Page 13 2019-20 Winter Al|-Barrv County Best Barracudas earn all-county honors • /• Jack Kensington Brett Bremer Sports Editor There was a whole lot of new for the local varsity swimmers and divers this winter. DJ Cochran look over as lhe new head coach ol the Delton Kellogg-Thornapple Kellogg-Hastings varsity boys’ swimming and diving team. The new coach and his guys came up with a new name for the program, that isn’t such a mouthful - the Barry County Barracudas. The Barracudas turned their focus lo tech­ nique a bit more under their new head coach, and dropped limes throughout the season just like they had under their previous leader. The Barracudas saw the Calcdonia-LowellSouth Christian boys defender their confer­ ence championship in the OK Rainbow Tier 11 this winter, as the Vikings left everyone else in their wake. l he Barracudas had some good battles, as usual, with the Wayland boys. A handful of Barry County Barracudas earned all-conference honors for their perfor­ mance at lhe season ending conference meet at the Community Education and Recreation Center in Hastings. All of those all-confer­ ence honorees arc here among the 2019-20 All-Barry County boys’ swimming and diving first and second teams. 2019-20 All-Barry County Boys*Swimming and Diving First Than: Jon Arnold, Barry' County: Arnold closed out his senior season by scoring conference medah in a sprint and a distance race. He placed fifth in both the 50-yard freestyle and lhe 500-yard freestyle. Arnold was also a key member of relays throughout lhe season for the Barracudas, helping lhe team to fourth place finishes in lhe 200-yard medley' relay and the 400-yard free­ style relay al the conference meet. He earned ail-conference honors as well this season. Thomas Barnard, Barry County: Barnard, a senior, finished off his varsity swimming career by helping the Barracuda team in lhe 200-yard freestyle relay to the team’s best relay finish in the conference this winter - a Andrew Tuokkola score of 276.35 points at the meet. Barnes placed 25th at the Division 1 Diving Regional hosted by Hudsonville at the end of the season. Jack Kensington. Barry County: Kensington became one of the Barry County team’s top freestyle sprinters right away in his freshman season, eventually placing eighth at the con­ ference meet in the 50-yard freestyle and sixth in lhe IOO-yard freestyle. Kensington was also a member of the thirdplace 200-yard freestyle relay and fourth place 400-yard freestyle relay teams at the conference meet for Bany County. Gram Price, Barry County: lite county’s best diver as a junior this winter, and lhe OK Rainbow Tier II Conference champion. Price won the conference title with an overall score of 319.10 points at lhe conference meet, best­ ing his nearest competitor by nearly 15 points. Price just missed lhe cut for lhe semifinals of his Division 1 diving regional at the end of the season, finishing in 21 st place overall. He . was one-of two Barry Chunly-divers to earn all-conference honors. .Sam Randall. Barry County: Randall closed out his junior campaign by earning all-confer­ Gram Price ence honors. He was fourth at lhe conference meet in the 200-yard freestyle and and third in lhe 100-yard butterfly. third-place finish. Barnard also swam to a sixth-place time at Randall also helped Barry County score the conference meet in the 100-yard breast­ points in lhe conference as a part of lhe stroke. His strong breaststroke helped him to fourth-place 400-yard freestyle relay team be one of his team’s top swimmers in the 200- and the fourth-place 200-yard medley rqlay yard individual medley throughout the sea­ team. son. Blake Sheldon, Barry County: One of two Dane Barnes, Barry County: Barnes was Barry County divers to earn all-conference one of three divers on the medal stand at the honors this winter. Sheldon was lhe OK conference meet for the Barry County Rainbow Tier 11 Conference runner-up. less Barracudas this winter, putting together a total than 15 points behind teammate Gram Price. Sheldon, a sophomore, was also just behind his teammate at their Division 1 diving regional where he placed 23rd. Britton Stevens, Barry County: Stevens had a big role with the Barracudas this winter, as a key relay contributor and a strong freestyle sprinter overall. Stevens was 12th in lhe IOO-yard freestyle and ninth in lhe 50-yard freestyle at the con­ ference meet, and earned conference medals as a part of lhe fourth-place 200-yard medley relay team and the 200-yard freestyle relay team. Andrew' Tuokkola, Barry’ County: Tuokkola closed out an outstanding varsity career this winter, earning all-conference honors in the OK Rainbow Tier 11 Conference thanks in part to a third-place finish in the 500-yard freestyle and a sixth-place conference finish in lhe 200-yard individual medley. Capable of racing well al any distance for the team, he helped Barry County to a thirdplace finish in the 200-yard freestyle relay at the conference meet and also a fourth-place finish in the 400-yard freestyle relay. 2019-20 All-Barry County Boys’ Swimming and Diving Second Team Gabe Neuman. Barry County: Neuman closed out his senior season by scoring 15th-place finish in the 100-yard backstroke al the conference meet, one of two races he scored in individually. Neuman also placed 16th in the conference in the 500-yard freestyle, and was a relay contributor throughout the season. Devin Pacillo. Barry' County: Pacillo worked towards becoming lhe next strong Barry County distance swimmer during his freshman season this winter. He placed 11th in the conference in thdj 500-yard freestyle and 12th in the 200-yanF freestyle. • Isaiah Randall. Barry County: A freshman,Randall placed I4th in the conference in the’ 100-yard breaststroke at the end of the season.’ Randall contributed to relays throughout* the season and just missed a scoring place in* the 200-yard individual medley at the confer? ence meet. « Camden Reynolds, Barry County: Reynolds' scored for the Barry County team at the OK Rainbow Tier II Conference meet with his 16th-place time in the 200-yard freestyle. He was a part of relay teams throughout the season as well as he worked to become a bet­ ter distance swimmer. Brett Seagle. Barry County: Seagle worked at becoming solid in the freestyle sprints during his junior season this winter. He got a spot in the C Final of the 50-yard freestyle al lhe conference meet at lhe end oflhe season, and was also a relay contributor throughout the year. Matthew Smith, Barry County: Smith scored a pair of 15th-placc finishes al the con­ ference meet in his sophomore season, in lhe 200-yard individual medley and the 100-yard breaststroke. Smith raced on relay teams for the Barracudas throughout the season too. Erik Zimmerman, Barry County: A junior, Zimmerman was lhe second-fastest Barracuda in the 100-yard butterfly at the conference meet, scoring in 16th place. Zimmerman contributed to relays through­ out the season for the Barry County team as well. Anderson to make Hillsdale next football home fcrrcd into the Lakewood district after his Brett Bremer Sports Editor Senior wide receiver Parker Anderson had a one-yard touchdown catch in his senior sea­ son opener against Belding. An even bigger highlight for him was get­ ting a pancake block on lhe outside that helped spring teammate Sawyer Stoepker for a 53-yard game-tying touchdown run in the fourth quarter of a 26-21 Ukewood Viking sophomore football season. Anderson said playing eight-player football was a benefit for him on the defensive side of the football especially as he had to learn how to play in space. . . “The biggest thing is if you re gomg in to make a tackle you had belter start chopping your feet, because if you didn t you were going to whiff." Anderson said. Anderson played basketball as a freshman at Maple Valley, and said he joined the wres­ tling program al Lakewood when he moved into the district his sophomore year. He couldn’t compete because of transfer rules Ins sophomore year, and stuck with it ns junior year but that the sport wasn’t really for him. He was impressed by the work ethtc needed to victory at Charlotte in October. lhe Vikings didn’t throw lhe ball around a lot last full, but Anderson said he is willing lo do whatever is asked of him on the lootball field. . , Hillsdale College asked him to sign onto its football program, and Anderson accepted in February signing on to become a part o e Charger team for the upcoming season. Anderson said he was being recruited by the be a part of the wrestling program. Hillsdale football players have shown tre­ mendous work ethic, both on the field and off in recent seasons. This year’s Hillsdale signing class has an average high school grade point average of 4.1, keeping with the high academic standards head coach Keith Otterbein and his staff arc intent on pursuing with their recruiting. “Our players have been improving in lhe classroom continuously over lhe past several years, something we take a great deal of pride in,” Keith Otterbein said. "In addition, we feel like this year’s class is full of really taalented football players." The Chargers have put together three win­ ning seasons in their three years as members of the Great Midwest Athletic Conference. The 2020 season is scheduled to begin at home for the Chargers on Saturday, Sept 5 againM Northwood University. Chargers throughout the fall ol his jum » son. and then after the season was muted to see some of the Chargers spring '• "(Quarterbacks coach and recruiting coo dinator Brad Otterbein/ had me;come o oik of his camps and work out at a. ew c positions for him," Anderson said. He worked out al wide back and esen did some drills with he qm terbacks It has lieen a few >;• • Anderson has played the J™ lion, hut he was happy to show t k C aryx What he could do. Anderson sard he think 1 e ha. better instincts on the defensive :side of the ball, but has always loved playing His first choice would to be to hne up at wtdt receiver for Hillsdule. . .. Anderson is one oi 27 play*’z’' Chargers on National Signing I ^ " । J set "I loved lhe school from the moment I t foot on campus.” Anderson sat • »jerjUl.c Hewas^wntothehtstmyoftteW Room, decorated with eagle. books and historical l ibrary on campus and the w Mossey V dedicated c > WRESTLING, continued from previous page i.TWiiTftAn Afrnmffifflp 171 Antlionv Raymond, Maple Valley: Lakewood High School senior Parker Anderson is ioined bv his P3,crlls RandV and Brandt alter signing his National Letter of Intent to inin tho Hillsda® Collage lootball program next season. 1 Christ Chapel. He plans on studying business management or finance. Anderson had plans for an internship at the local Edward Jones office, before the things went on bold because of lhe world-wide COVID-19 outbreak. Now most of his foot­ ball workouts arc with his younger brother Cole, a seventh grader whose youth team Anderson helped coach the past few seasons. -I Jove coaching lhe younger kids.” Anderson said. “I love passing on what 1 know to the young guys and keeping the Jove of football going and hopefully making a dif­ ference in these young k^ ; Playing catch in the y^1' "k from the regular round*s' n:. ""'I* “•»* workouts Anderson ha* h'" ’’ ,n® 11110 P''ll'"aid‘hN mother 1^ Playnm football in lhe f.^"’1 ls * a>*‘""h te«m in Melvindale and then his family m ,h N Tm ‘ t k •‘rca. Was a paI( of . einlu .a,. , flC'hntdn and then kq-nt-p|aycr (Canl :is a ...... . , ivtK/i m .tt ' J buck to jJiayed with the program CI....nn n , . II ni». i। ^-season. He Iran' 11 player his .sophonu^ Raymond went' 43-« in his semor season, qualifying lor the Individual State hnals in Div irion 4’s 11 qxiund weight class. He won a GLAC cli.impion.vhip this winter, and placed second at districts and fourth al regional*. A four-year varsity wrestler tor the Lions and a team caplarn. coach Tony Wawrcrnta called Raymond a great team leader and a hard w orker in practice. 171 Adam Bush. Thomapple Kellogg: A sen.or captain lor lhe Trojans. Bush compiled a record of 32-13 this winter. Bush Was lhe nmner up nt 171 pounds in the OK Gold Conference this season 189 David Hoback Frizzell, Maple Valley: Ho.back-FrizzeiL a Lion raptam. qualified for lhe Indivalual State Finals in Division 4 s 189-pound weight class. A junior, he won a district championship and followed that up with a fourth place regional finish to earn a state spot for lhe first lime. Coach Wawiernia said Hosack-Frizzell is a hard-worker, who played a major role in getting teammates Ray mond and Brumm pre­ pared for the Mate finals. 215 Allen Shcllington, Lakewood: Shellingion had nearly 30 victories during his senior campaign for the Vikings. Shcllington placed third at the GLAC Tournament. 2h5 Carter West, Thomapple Kellogg: A junior, We>t was the OK Gold Conference champion at 285 pounds and was an individu­ al regional qualifier thanks to a third-place district finish. West, a team captain, put together a record o(4l-5. �7 bo Hastings Ban Banner Pnge 14 — Thursday April 2.2020 — Tho Page HHS recognizes top academic Dane Barnes Luke Froncheck Skiff Writer Hastings High School High School has announced its top academic seniors from the class of 2020. /\ few years ago, the district decided that top honors, previously known as the top 10, would go to all students who earned a 4.0 or higher grade point average. Seven Hastings students did so this year: Dane Barnes. Shannon Brown. Audrey Byykkonen, Hannah Johnson, Eleanor McFarlan, Katie Pattok and Anna Scheck. The seven students have participated in a variety of activities, including sports, drama, service clubs, music, academic competitions, volunteering and student leadership programs. Dane Barnes is the son of Spencer and Kimberly Barnes. He earned eight varsity letters in high school athletics, competing track and field, soccer, and swim and dive. He was a captain for the varsity soccer and track teams his senior year. In soccer, he made the all-county team as the starting goalkeeper and was named academic all-conference each year. He was awarded MVP his freshman year of diving and the National Athletic award. He earned a varsity letter all four years of track and field. The summer before his senior year, he went on a biodiversity research trip lo Croatia with some of his HHS peers. In order to do Audrey Byykkonen this, he had to become SCUBA Barnes also was involved in Science Olympiad and the Math team and was a member of the National Honor Society. He plans to attend either the University of Michigan or Michigan State University to study genera! biology. After completing undergraduate school, he plans to go to medical school to become an anesthesiologist. Bames said is most proud of persevering through high school and is ready to move award her junior year and also traveled to Spain with 12 other students. After graduation she plans to attend Michigan State University to pursue a degree in mathematics and Spanish. . Brown said shc js mo$t proud of her involvement with the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Foundation. She first attended a HOBY seminar her sophomore year, then relumed lhe following year ns a volunteer. She said she strives to give future students the opportunity lo experience the pow er of service and leadership. Audrey Byykkonen is the daughter of Roger and Faith Byykkonen. 1 hroughout high school, she was on the volleyball, basketball and track and field teams. She also participated in lhe school musicals and was a member of the Math Team, Science Olympiad and National Honor Society. Byykkonen was in band all four years and was a marching band section leader for two years. She plans to work at Camp Michawana in lhe summer and attend the University of Chicago in lhe fall. Byykkonen said she is most proud of how much she’s grown, gaining knowledge and friendships, in high school. She also is proud of getting the Qucstbridgc Scholarship lo attend lhe University of Chicago. Hannah Johnson is the daughter of Brad Johnson, the late Karin Johnson, and Tammy Snook. . She participated.mywim and dive, where she qualified for slate her senior year. She also serves as the student council executive board president. Key Club vice-president, and National Honor Society vice-president. She also was involved in the musical and band all four years. Johnson served in the Barry' County YMCA’s Y Mentors program for lhe past three years where she said she enjoyed mentoring elementary students. After graduation, she plans to attend Brigham Young University’ over lhe summer before leaving on an 18-month mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. When she returns, she plans to return to BYU and pursue a degree in accounting. Johnson said she is most proud of being crowned homecoming queen next to the one and only Braden Tolles. Eleanor McFarlan is the daughter of Dustin and Sarah McFarlan. Throughout high school, she participated in spring musicals, fall plays, softball, tennis. Michael and Jackie Brown. Brown was a member of the Math Team and was involved in symphonic and marching bands and the musical. She participated in varsity sideline and competitive cheer teams, making all-conference two years and serving as a team captain her senior year. Brown also was on the varsity dive and varsity tennis teams. She is the executive board vice president of the student council, secretary of the National Honor Society chapter, president of the Youth Advisory Council of Barry County and YAC representative on the Barry Community Foundation Board. Brown volunteered for the YMCA of Barn’ County’s Y Mentors program, Circle of Giving, the United Way and the local food bank. She was given the Spanish department’s BEWARE OF COSTLY ESTATE PLANNING MISTAKES DURING COVID 19 CRISIS Now more than ever we need to focus on our wellbeing and that of our families. This pandemic serves as a reminder that everyone should have properly executed estate planning documents and a "long term care plan." As part of this realization, one might be tempted to take “knee jerk" actions that, ultimately, will NOT be in the best interest of you or your loved ones. For example: 1. Do Not Resort to “Do it Yourself” Estate Planning Documents. No matter what you have heard, there is no such thing as a “one-size-fils all” estate planning document. We see every day that lhe attempt to “save money" by drafting your own estate planning documents consistently results in costly attorney intervention after death or incapacity. Estate planning is a highly personal practice; it boils down to much more than names of individuals and numerical values. While it may be tempting to try using a do-it-yourself online estate document service or just writing something up yourself, these poorly drafted documents may only cost you or your heirs additional money in the end. It is impossible lo know, without a legal education and years of experience, what lhe righl legal solution is to any situation and what planning opportunities are available. 2. Do Not Add Your Children’s Names to Assets. Many people believe that an ‘easy* way to avoid probate or to enable their children to assist them as they get older is to add their child to their bank accounts or even to the deed to their home. Mo.sl of the time this strategy backfires. Your asset could be at risk if: your child gets sued; your child goes through bankruptcy / divorce; your child decides they need the asset for their own well-being; the child is on Medicaid, Disability or SSI; you need nursing home care in the next live years (adding the child will be seen as □0 a penalizing gift and prevent you from Medicaid benefits to help pay for care). There are too many reasons to list, but the above are just a few examples as to why adding children’s names lo assets is NOT recommended. 3. Do Not Pay Family Members to Provide Care or “Help Out” During This Crisis. If a family member has lost their employment during this crisis, it might be tempting lo pay them for caregiving services to an elderly loved one. While this might seem like a “win / win” situation for the family, paying for care to a family member has disastrous effects on the elderly loved. Indeed, should the elder need nursing home care in the next 5 years, the payments to the caregiver are considered a “divestment for less than fair market value” and will result in a penally. The result: the elder will be prohibited from Medicaid benefits he/she might otherwise be entitled. The only way lo avoid this trap is to have a knowledgeable elder law' attorney draft a “Caregiver Contract” that complies with Medicaid policy. Please know that our office is fully available during this time to discuss and prepare your Estate and Long-Term Care plans. While the health of our families, friends, and communities are certainly of the utmost importance to each of us in this unprecedented time, it is important to continue to protect our loved ones through proper estate planning. Robert J. Longsircel Longstreet Elder Law & Estate Planning p.c. 607 North Broadway Hastings. Michigan 49058 269-945-3495 Katie Pattok Anna Scheck basketball, student council, the Math Team, the volunteer program at Spectrum Health Pennock and the Y Mentors program. She also worked at the YMCA as a swim instructor. McFarlan also held positions as secretary and president for Key Club, color guard captain during marching band season, treasurer for National Honor Society, and won multiple awards in Science Olympiad competitions. After graduation, McFarlan plans to attend Central Michigan University to study political and environmental sciences through the college’s Centralis scholarship and honors program. McFarlan said she is most proud of participating in the science research trip to Croatia and the memories she was able to make through the trip. Working with real scientists for environmental research has shaped her future career path, she said, and she is grateful that the science department has allowed the chance for students to experience it. Katie Pattok is the grand-daughter of Sandra and the late Gerald Pattok. She was on the cross country and soccer teams, serving as soccer captain her sophomore year. She was named academic all-conference for both sports. Pattok was in four fall plays and marching band color guard. She was a member of Science Olympiad, robotics and the Math Team and participated in and Key Club. Pattok also was active in her community through her youth group and participated in a progressive mission trip her junior year. She plans to attend a four-year university and then go to medical school to pursue pediatric psychiatry'. Pattok said she is most proud of participating in a school trip lo Croatia in June 2019 to conduct biodiversity studies in Krka National Park and on Silba Island. Anna Scheck is the daughter of Ken and Laura Scheck. She was part of the stage crew for lhe fall play and acted in the spring musicals. Shc was a member of Science Olympiad. Math Team and Youth in Government. Throughout high school, Scheck was involved in band and choir, serving as clarinet co-section leader and secretary of Varsity Singers. Shc also was a member of National Honor Society. Before moving to Hastings, Scheck wras social media manager of Students Learn International and a Girl Scout ambassador. She also won outstanding resolution in Ohio Model United Nations. After graduation, Scheck plans to attend a four-year university lo study environmental science and mathematics. She wants lo work in energy or conservation. Because shc only spent two years al Hastings High School, she said her proudest accomplishment has been making wonderful new friendships. See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. WI-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 Hastings DANNER Area Locations to purchase the Hastings Banner! j MJddlfvJlIei Speedway Marketplace Greg’s Getlt-N Go Middiev& Johnny's One Stop M-43 NortE' U'nfy Fare a . Tom’s MaiW Hastings 52 * * Tte Genera!,^011-' Marathon Mega Bev PenrrlWG^P Hating M** . PHsps 660 SwtonW**50 ELDER LAWS ESTATE PLANNING P.c Eleanor McFarlan Hannah Johnson Shannon Brown forward in life. Shannon Brown is lhe daughter of seniors PHi»66O5u,i0n W'37'M GJW X-oAe: Sam s GouniEl Thv Dock Store Pin? fake: Duster County S’cre Prqirievillft Prairieville Fait Stop OrangypHlje: Orangcvi.ie fas Si';: Woodlqndi Woodlatid Expre^ Cfovcrdale: Oowrdak- General Brown s GJi: Creek Grocery MtQtu Family Fan? Deiton Johnws RwifteUk BarJkH G^vi* St ;:v Goklsworthys Doding Genera! Stere Expert: Nashville; Trading Po$» little s :iry S’;-Na>h7& MV Pharmacy a.Cy r' Carls LahrO Express like 0 Man l^Ock-sa JohnrrA Cads To-cn & County Walgreens � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-04-09.pdf 755d765be83bcec9180aa2235133c764 PDF Text Text Despite virus, road projects moving Sec Story on Page 5 Local news is a habit saving See Edito""1 0,1 Page 4 Wrestling tourney takes place online See Story on Page 9 804879110187 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 1070490102590502696149058113421 Thursday. APrj VOLUME 167, No. 15 ANNER 2020 __ - -rrTT- ‘ PRICE 75C -------- COVID case in recovery at Thornapple Manor County board to vote on bond request Tuesday In an electronic meeting Tuesday. Barry County commissioners will consider approving a resolution to seek $25 million in bonds to fund a new county jail and sheriff’s department facility.The meeting, co be held remotely, will be live streamed so county residents can watch it via I YouTube. Residents also may participate i in the meeting via phone or Zoom. “In accordance with the Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s Executive Order No. 2020-21 I regarding shelter in place and social dislancing to prevent the further spread of | COVID-19 and Executive Order No. < 2020-15 allowing meetings of a public body to be conducted remotely, the regular meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners scheduled for April 14. 2020. at 9 a.m. w ill be conducted electron­ ically.” according to a news release. Participate in the meeting via Zoom at https://zoom.us'j/J864704552 or via tele­ phone al 1-929-205-6099 using the meet­ ing ID 386-470-4552. (Phone controls for participants involve the following com­ mands - which can be entered via DTMF tones using a phone’s dial pad while in a ] Zoom meeting: *6 - Toggle muteunmute f and *9 - Raise hand. The live meeting can be viewed al •! www.youlube.com/channull UCMgDTT5WBXs715xuIF7kZAw/live | More information on the resolution and step-by-step instructions on how to speak I during the public comment portion of the meeting will be in Saturday's Reminder. ■ West Michigan Works hosting virtual hiring event In order to best meet employers’ hiring needs during the governor’s “Stay Home. Slay Safe” directive. West Michigan Works will host a virtual job fair April 21 and 23. Employer registration for this virtual I hiring event is open through noon Friday, /Xpril 10. Job seeker registration will begin Monday, April 13. Employers may register to participate in a morning and/or afternoon session each day of the job fair. Each session will include a series of 15-minute time slots in which employers will discuss job opportu­ nities with pre-scheduled candidates. Employers will call candidates at the scheduled time. More information is available at jobs. wesimiworks.org. Rebecca Pierce Editor A Barry’ County man diagnosed with CO VID-19, w ho was hospitalized at Spectrum Health Pennock and has recovered from the virus, was moved Monday to Thomapple Manor for rehabilitation, local officials said. Thomapple Manor admitted the patient for rehabilitation in an isolated area on the west end of the facility. Donald Haney. Thomapple Manor administrator, said Tuesday. “According to the information we currently have, this patient is no longer contagious." Haney said. "Our residents’ safety and care is our lop priority, and. therefore, we are isolat­ ing the new resident and providing dedicated staff in that area." The transfer of a patient to Thomapple Manor for rehabilitation "is part ot our normal protocol” if that patient is no longer conta­ gious, Janine Dalman, manager of the Pennock’s foundation and marketing, said. The announcement upset some residents and their families. Haney said. "I have had three residents or family mem­ bers contact me who have been upset.” he said. "I have had number of folks contact me to say they ’re disappointed, but they trust us. ... And then quite a few folks who say they “We felt comfortable this patient is no longer contagious, but we are treating him as if he was.” Donald Haney, Thornapple Manor administrator support us and wish us the best.’’ Wendell Armour, 79. who has lived at Thomapple Manor for eight years, said resi­ dents and their families were told the patient will be isolated from the other residents. But Armour expressed skepticism about the reassurances. When the public first became aware of the novel coronavirus, "they were afraid it would come in the building." he said, pointing to the March 12 closure prohibiting visitors. "Now they turn around and bring it into the building!" Haney said staff nt the sub-acute care facil­ ity has been "planning and preparing for this eventuality since the first case in Michigan was confirmed.” At that time, (he message to the 310-rnem- Faithful pte to celebrate Easter with online services Greg Chandler Staff Writer Tracy Scobey of Hastings said she will not allow the COVID-19 vims to prevent her from celebrating Easter this year. Scobey said she plans to celebrate the holiday Sunday by watching the live streaming of the Easter service from Thomapple Valley Church, where she has attended the past seven years. TVC is one of many local congregations in Barry County that plan to do live video streaming of their Easter services, either on their websites or on social media. TVC will actually have two services, al 9:30 and II a.m. Sunday. Easter Sunday is oneof the most significant days on the Christian calendar each year, as believers celebrate the resurrection of Jesus after he had been crucified on Good Friday more than 2.(XX) years ago. Despite not being able to connect with fellow congregant^ in person over the past month because of the coronavirus. Scobey said TVC members are staying connected with each other through electronic means. See SERVICES, page 7 See RECOVERY, page 7 Donald Haney, Thornapple Manor administrator, at a Barry County Board of Commissioners meeting. (File photo) Delton grad. helping fight COVID-19 Luke Froncheck Staff Writer People arc pushed to do everything they can to help one another during a global pandemic. For some, a push was never needed. Michigan is essentially locked down, but health care professionals across the state and nation are going to work every day to help fight COVID-19. Molly RUffer. a 2007 Delton Kellogg graduate, works at Eaton County Molly ROffer, 2007 Delton Kellogg graduate Health and Rehabilitation in Charlotte. She treats rehab patients who are transitioning from the hospital to home. The facility has other long-term care units. “The last few weeks have been a little hectic, but. from the beginning, our facility has taken precautions,” Riiffer said. As soon as the COVID19 outbreak began, the See GRAD, page 3 Law enforcement asks for compliance in stay-home order Teens invited to join photo project Registration is open through Sunday. April 12. for the Capturing Our New Normal: A Michigan Teen Photo Project which is being organized and led by start I from Michigan Stale University Extension. I MSU Extension staff will lead small I groups of teens, who will meet weekly I April I3-June I using the online Zoom meeting platform. During weekly /UcC. ings. youth participants will learn asic Photography skills and form relationships with other teens from across Michigan. Access to a digital camera is m required; teens can use a smartphone car era. In between weekly meetings, pa 1 , Pants will take photos to document things »n their life that arc going well and things that could be better, under the impute novel corona virus. .. . 3 louring meetings, stall will b.“r’1 | &r<Np conversations where teens wi > • | ^cir photos and talk about things happen- ■ mg in their lives and their communityI project, open to all Michigan res I ^otsagc 13-19, will bring together diverse ■ from across the Mate to take photo share their experiences adjusting < I hie the jrn t of (he novel coron • I Yin* More information and registration I found at //evcnb.anr.msu.edu/ph°ro’ I voice/. bcr staff was “it’s a matter of when, not if," patients recovering from the novel coronavi­ rus would lx- admitted (here for rehabilitation. Thomapple Manor has dedicated four beds for patients who are recovering from the virus Those beds are behind two barrier walls. Staff assigned to work in that area, a nurse and certified nursing assistant on each shift, volunteered to do so and will work only in that area. They will go through the first barrier wall, put on gowns and protective equipment, then go through the second barrier wall to enter the isolation area. “Every thing funnels through that barrier.” Haney said. ’The staff working in that area are there all day. T hey come out when shift is done. They're dedicated to that area and that area alone.” Those designated staff members will enter and leave the building through a door restrict­ ed for their use. The HVAC system at Thornapple Manor is a boilcr-heat-driven system, Haney said. "The return air system goes through three separate filters that get super-heated to above 160 degrees, which will kill bacteria and viruses,’’ J li05’™ —• «■ Taylor Owens Staff Writer The current crisis and stay at home order is unprecedented. so there have been a lot ot questions about what activities are legal and illegal. Barry County Prosecutor Julie NakfoorPratt said the number of calls and questions her office has received have been ‘too many to count.” “Il seems like there’s always a new ques­ tion,” Hastings City Police Chief Jeff Pratt said Monday. “1 took one before 8 o’clock this morning.” In the past few weeks, many of those ques­ tions have been answered. “We have a pretty good idea of what is essential and what is nonessential.” Pratt said. Law enforcement have been pointing peo­ ple to www.michigan.gov/coronaviruswhcre the document "Executive Order 2020-21 FAQs" details some of the specifics. For businesses to remain open, they must be "necessary to sustain or protect life or to conduct minimum basic operations,” the FAQ slates. Businesses deemed essential and able to remain open include: grocers, hardware stores, limited forms of construction, child care, home repair, laundromats, hotels, auto repair, pest control, security companies and the news media. Tlio.sc deemed lionessential include: car washes, hunting and shooting sports facilities or clubs, golf courses, lawn care services, RV sales, boating services, campgrounds, auto sales (except in extremely limited situations), bike shops, real estate services, furniture stores, massage parlors, craft and hobby stores and pool or spa stores. Some businesses, such as manufacturing, are determined on a ease-by-case basis. The issue can be complex, and NakfoorPralt pointed to golf courses as an example. They are legally closed for golfing, but a .staff member can lie at the course to perform main­ tenance. It also would not be illegal for some­ one to walk to the course for exercise. Law enforcement officials say the) under­ stand some people and businesses may not be sure what is considered legal and essential, and (hey aren't looking to go around writing citations if people are willing to work with them. "Compliance with the governor’s order is what our goal is,” N’akfoor-Pratt said. "If we have issues, then we would take that step, if necessary. "We would much rather just work it out and have them comply.” Citations will be made in cases where vio­ lations arc blatant and intentional, NakfoorPratl said. One case where a violation would be clear is if a person is caught committing a crime, l eaving a residence to commit a burglary, for instance, is not considered an essential reason to be outside, and the misdemeanor would be attached to a suspect’s other charges. The penalty for violating the executive order is a misdemeanor with a fine of up to $5M and or 90 days in jail. An officer can choose to cite an individual or businesses, or it can be referred to the Barry County Prosecutor’s Office, and perhaps from there to the Michigan Attorney General’s Office. T he Michigan Department of Health and See COMPLIANCE, page 7 �Pago 2 — Thursday. April 9. 2020 — Th© Hasfngn B<nw ■ ■ ■ Pumping effort racing to keep up with rainran ---- ------------- - -- --- T773 ■ Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Spring rains arc here anti pumps hase been turned on to reduce high water levels on likes in the Delton area. The question is: Which will move water faster, rain falling into the lake or the pumps taking waler out and nio\ ing it to a nearby detention basin? , “We're pumping like mad right now,’* Barry County Drain Commissioner Jim Dull said. “But 1 don’t know if we can keep up with the rain." . Winter pumping restrictions - implemented by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy for the past several months - were lifted last week. Water from Upper Crooked Lake is again flowing at full power into the detention basin north of Delton Road. - Even with higher pumping capabilities, its will not pumping at full capacity. That won’t come until EGLE official* approve a pennit lor a larger. 18-inch pump, rather than the current 12-inch pump. 1 Should the permit be approved, and the IS inch'pump installed, pumping capabilities would be doubler!. However, that pennit will not be approved for at least another two weeks. The public notice for the permit application, listing the changes that engineers have proposed, went out April 2. - The permit cannot be approved until after a 20-day public notice period ending April 22. ’ Audric Kirk, EGLE’s water resource district supervisor in Grand Rapids, said guidelines require her department to decide on the permit between 90 and 120 days from receiving the application. But that timeline would be extended by two Months if a public hearing is requested during the public notice. The submitted permit addresses the recent and ongoing flooding conditions on multiple lakes in .southwest Barry County by pumping water from a detention basin to Delton Marsh which would gravity feed through a chain of lakes to Fall Creek. Drain Commissioner Jim Dull rows out to a barrel buoy that marks where a pump intake begins on Crooked Lake to pull muck, weeds and other debris from the pipe to allow more water to flow in. Schools create plans for learning during closure Taylor Owens Staff Writer Even though Michigan schools are nowclosed for the remainder of the school year, education will continue in one form or anoth­ er. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's executive order closing schools also required districts to cre­ ate a continuity of loaming plan for howinstruction will continue for the remainder of the school year. * The 17-page document waives a number of education regulations for the remainder of the school year, and gives districts certain abili­ ties. ’ “Decisions regarding the aw arding of cred­ it. the issuance of grades, and the use of pass or fail designations will be made at the district level by districts with due recognition of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.” the order states. School district officials were able to begin submitting their continuity of learning plans • for their local intermediate school districts on April X. and have until April 28 to start imple­ menting those plans. Barry ISD Superintendent Richard Franklin said Wednesday that he w as finishing up work in preparation for receiving districts* plans, and hoping to approve them for implementa­ tion as soon as possible. “The last couple of weeks have been rough for everybody," Franklin said. "The teachers miss the students and. whether they want to admit it or not. a lot of students miss school. "But 1 think that, within the chaos, a lot of great stuff has been happening." Franklin pointed to the efforts of local administrators to come up w ith ideas as the situation has continued to evolve on a daily basis. “They were trying to write plans before they even knew- what it was going to be called or what it was going to look like.” Franklin said, "it’s so hard to talk about a thing without knowing what that thing is. but that hasn't stopped us from trying.’’ “Our team has been planning for this day for the past few weeks,” Thornapple Kellogg Schools Superintendent Robert Blitchok said in a statement on the school closure April 3. “We are already desiring a comprehensive plan for all of our sflitehts and hope to begin remote learning as soon as possible after spring break " “We are finding a myriad of alternative delivery modes for these lessons." Blitchok said. "In some cases, this will include a cur­ riculum packet for grade levels, courses and also students who may not have access to devices or the internet in order to access online materials.” Hastings Area Schools Superintendent Dan Remcnap said Wednesday the district has already submitted its continuity of learning plan to Barry ISD. He expected the approval process to take a day. and then details of that plan will be shared with the community. Implementation of the plan is expected to Find us on: Worship Schedule for facebook® . HOLYWEEK First Presbyterian Church of Hastings is sharing )esus with our community and world this Holy Week via our Facebook page <® First Presbyterian Church, Hastings, Ml and via delayed recordings on our website www.firstchurchhastinqs org Online Options: M A U N D \| Thursday, April 9th at 8pm Thursday Maundy Thursday Communion Servfco w/bread and juice from home ‘Please understand that this executive order does not end the school year. It simply changes how we will be instructing and communicating. It will be a challenge for all, so we really have to work together the best we can, from a distance, to keep our kids learning.’ Dan Remenap, Hastings Area School System superintendent ------------------------ ----------------start April 16. “Please understand that this executive order does not end the school year." Rcmcnap said in a press release. “It simply changes how we will be instructing and communicating. It will be a challenge for all, so we really have to work together the best we can, from a dis­ tance, to keep our kids learning.” Delton Kellogg Superintendent Kyle Corlett said the district plans to begin new instruction April 20. "This is new- for all of us, so please be patient as teachers figure out the best way to provide new instruction online and remotely,” Corlett said in a letter to parents. "We have amazing teachers and we will be offering training and support for them, but we’re sure to hit a few speed bumps along the way. “The bottom line is: We’re going to do our best to support your kids during this lime.” "We plan to use a combination of low-tech and high-tech methods to reinforce and enrich our students' learning through our closure in March,” Maple Valley Superintendent Katherine Bertolini said in a letter to parents April 2. "We will focus on expanding stu­ dents’ knowledge up to our initial closing for a few reasons. "Despite what we will attempt to do to reach every student and meet them where they are. the successful introduction of new knowl­ edge cannot be assured. As a rural community with limited technology and Wi-Fi access, we simply do not have the tools to guarantee robust learning for all children from Young 5s to seniors." Many schools are giving students iPads and Chromebooks to help them complete their homework. But the lack of reliable internet is a problem in much of rural Michigan, and districts arc still figuring out different ways to work with students. Special education is another challenge for remote learning. Franklin said some services, such as speech and language assistance, can be provided remotely, but physical therapy cannot. By law, each special education student has an Individualized Education Plan, and any changes to the plan require a formal meeting. But it would be extremely difficult have a formal meeting to amend each students’ IEP, so Franklin said a contingency plan will likely be attached to the lEPs. The executive order does not go into detail about pre-school education. Until they arc directed otherwise, districts are planning to wrap pre-school plans into their K-12 plans, Franklin said. Suspects arrested after attempting repeat performance Taylor Owens Sunday, April 12th at 7 AM Sunday Sunrise Pastor's Devotion AM - Easter Service . i t„„ ‘-S via the church website at www.flrstclwrchhastlngs.org T.S ■« !m,“- "hkh “l"y™, locate ” ’"■“the 4s tab on I Truthcastinq, you will then choose the date of the sermon h od a.«.-e .hl, .op “You can’t make this stuff up," Hastings Staff Writer City Police Chief Jeff Pratt said. Several guns were stolen from Al & Pete’s He could not recall a case where the sus­ Sports Shop in a break-in around 4 a.m. pects tried to commit the same crime again in Friday. March 27. Later that day, a 2011 Acura MDX used in the same way, when the first crime was the robbery was found abandoned in already under police investigation. He said it is possible the suspects were able Kentwood. The vehicle was returned to the to obtain a key to the vehicle, which may have dealership from which it had been stolen. The same vehicle was stolen again Monday, been why they stole it a second time, but the March 30. Police spotted the car in Hastings case is still under investigation. lhe suspects were lodged in Kent County» early the mooting of April 1, and police fol­ and intonnation on them has not been lowed it to the Grand Rapids area. Officers of the Kent County Sheriff’s released. Pratt said the case may take some Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, lime since the suspects arc connected to inci­ Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives attempted dents in multiple counties. to stop the vehicle, which led to a short vehi­ cle pursuit and ensuing fool pursuit. All four suspects in the vehicle were arrest­ ed. Three of them arc suspects in the March 27 robbery at Al & Pete’s, along with several thefts across the sate. One of the suspects said the reason they were in Hastings April 1, was to rob Al & Pete’s a second lime, but that they turned around when they saw police. Call 269-945-9554 •or Hastings Banner ads �The Hast'ngs Banner — Thursday, April 9, 2020 — Page 3 * • ... r . * fl loot back at the stories and columns on local history 111 thft Hacflnnc R.innoi* In the Hastings Banner turning back the PAGES < Coats Grove, a village in four townships The CK&S depot in Coats Grove served farmers, businessmen, students and others for more than 50 years. In 1891. a basement was dug under the school and a furnace installed and a coal bin was added for a better supply of water and more dependable source of heat. Water was supplied by neighboring farms or homes, car­ ried in a pail by the teacher or older boys. There was the usual dipp^ frorn w|)jc|1 everyone drank. Later, well was drilled for a more direct supply of waler. The outhouses were behind the school, one for each gender. The school building also had two front doors, one for boys and one for girls. Electricity made it possible to have better lighting, running water and inside plumbing. (A kitchen was added in 1942.) Students gather for a special Thanksgiving program at the Coats Grove School circa The school was the center of community 1915. activities, with special programs, particularly at Christmas. Spelling bees, box socials and other festivities also w ere at the school. The land on which the school was built was taken from the Charles Fuller farm, as was land across the comer on the south side of the road on which the church was built. The church, in Hastings Township, was built and dedicated in 1877 by a group formed in 1875 as the Church of Christ A group of ladies intbe Coals Grove area who called themselves fie DGTO Club, short of Do Good To Others fhey met regularly in each other’s homes anAfid many good deeds for their neighbors ad for people outside of the community. The Smith Brothen General Store in Coats Grove was built tn the early 1870s on the southeast comerof the crossroads, in Castleton Township. It wras a two-story wooden build­ ing. A windmill stood al the east end. A porch ran across the front of the store with a bench on each side of the door. The store supplied area farmers with dry goods, notions, candy, tobacco and groceries. Smith Brothers built the general store in Coats Grove. In this photo, A.C. Wait is The store carried hard ware farmers needed. advertised as the proprietor. The main part was wide, with counters on both sides. The one on the east side was the dry' goods and notions counter, with a thread The following column was written by the with the Michigan Engineers in the U.S. Civil case, a revolving cylinder of glass with rows of slots for different colors of thread. late Joyce Weinbrecht for the Oct. 16, 1997, War. To the back of the counter was the shoe Banner on the only community in the county In 1876, Coats purchased 50 acres in that lies within four townships. Section 31 of Woodland Township and moved department. The west side had glass cases his family there (the southwest comer, and with candy and tobacco. At the back on this Coats Grove lies at the juncture of four what is now part of Coats Grove]. He was side was a small p°st office department with townships: Carlton. Woodland. Castleton and appointed the first postmaster of Coats Grove, pigeon-hole mail boxes. The Smith Brothen* Store was operated as a Hastings. and the village was named after him. an The first post office in Woodland Township appropriate name for the lovely spot he had partnership by W. Hed Smith and Ernest Smith. W. Fred Smith was the postmaster at was established Sept. 29, 1879. by George chosen. Washington Coats. Coats was bom May 7, The mail arrived in town three times each this time. The Smith Brothers owned a grocery 1838, in Springwater, Livingston County, week from Hastings in a rig drawn by a team N.Y. When he first moved to Michigan, he of horses. The next stop was at Woodland wagon and covered the area each week. They had both a Hastings and a Woodland tele­ settled in Jamestown, Ottawa County, where Centre. he married Abby Richardson. George W. Coats put up a workshop where phone. so a housewife could call in her order He was a builder by trade and had served he built sleighs, sleds, clothes bars and a cof­ the day the route she lived on would be cov­ fin. He could set wagon tires and buggy tires. ered. Often goods were exchanged for eggs He built hay racks, wagons, privies and and butler. There was not much baker’s bread in those wheelbarrows. He built his own brick house and his bam, and in the years that followed, days. Everyone baked their own. Alter the bread was shipped he built 15 houses in the area of Coals Grovel railroad arrived. To the west of the Coats farm and shop, from Kalamazoo on the 8:45 a.m. train in a across the comer on the north side of the road strong wooden box with rope handles on the but in Carlton Township, was the first school end. It was called Kremo and was still warm in Coats Grove, built in 1843. The school and smelled delicious when it arrived. The building was sold for $12, when, in 1878, the store sold no more than a dozen loaves each board voted to build a new school at a cost day. Coffee was sold as whole beans and was $800. This was a fractional school, since it served students in more than one township, all proud for customers in a big old coffee grind­ four of them converging on Coats Grove er. Gold Medal Hour was sold in 50-pound At one lime, more than 100 students attend­ cloth sacks. Their slogan was “Eventually ... ed the school. Charles McIntyre was hired to why not now?” Vinegar came in a barrel and teach there and keep discipline at a time when customers brought t ieir own jUgS Maple enrollment was high. If he could not do the syrup was sold in ?‘l ’°n cans, and maple assignment, he was told he would not receive sugar was sold in various sizes. his pay. He taught the |(X) students and did In 1889. the Kalamazoo and receive his wages. Saginaw, or CK&$ r°ad arrived in Coals Illis group of students contained a fairlv Grove, crossing *r0,n ai»tings Township into large number of bigger boys, and boys who Castleton Township and then on (o Woodland. normally could attend school only in the’ win A passenger train ral’ m the niornjng and ter months. Eugene Davenport, who became a another toward evening. That worked out well well-known educator [at the university level! for students aliening.‘flings High School. once taught school there. ' Freight trains on _e. **ded fanners of the The school was built after the pattern of (he area, both in rvceiv* g stipp|jcs and jn s^jp. day: One room where all of die children gath ping out their crop5cred. Il was heated with wood, and each fall The railroad ran r^’n Kalamazoo to the school Ixiard had to ascertain where the’ Woodbury. It never Saginaw, but it W(Mxl would come from. It was hauled tn the was a boon for ^7 since it connect­ school and stacked in the woodshed when, ii ed the Pcre u in Woodbury, the would stay dry. ’ L,u “ Michigan Central » .uul a COuple Hastings; keep up to date until the new edition; is printed! different lines in Kalamazoo. There were turntables on both ends of the fine to tum the trains around and head them back over the route. Smith Brothers and Veltc built several ele­ vators along the fine, including one in Coals Grove. Livestock shipping yards were built beside (he tracks. Fanners raising sugar beets, which many did at that time, could load them on the flat cars for shipping out. Wheat, oats and beans, as well as wood, could be sent to market at reasonable rates. A scale was avail­ able for weighing both the outgoing freight and the incoming coal. A side track ran close beside the coal sheds, and coal was brought in from Kalamazoo. The depot, made in the simple fashion of the CK&S, served both passengers and freight. Many logs were brought in to be shipped out on the railroad. Willard Bolton managed the elevator. Charlie Rowladcr managed the shipping of the livestock. Ernest Smith was the ticket agent for many year. Charlie McCall, the train conductor for many years, was remembered by people along the railroad line. The CK&S served the com­ munity for more than 50 years, taking people to and from school, young men to and from wars, lawyers and businessmen to and from their offices in Hastings. Drummers, or travel­ ing salesmen, would arrive in Cols Grove on the train and leave on the next one. Mrs. Coats would serve them a meal and listen for the train whistle so that they could catch the train again. Winnie Dove had a blacksmith shop close to the general store for several years, then he moved to a bigger store by die railroad tracks where he did garage work, mostly on Model T Fords. Art Bennett remained as the black­ smith in a shop south of the general store. The path from the railroad depot to the stores through the grove was a muddy one. The ladies of the DGTO Club raised money for a cement sidewalk. In July 1909, the club held an ice cream social to cam some money. By September of that year, Bern Whiting from Woodland started to lay a cement side­ walk from the train tracks west along the front of the houses on the south side of the road, extending to the church. It served the commu­ nity well and is still there. Traveling through today, under the canopy, of maple trees, green in spring and summer and golden yellow in the fall, one can almost hear the laughter of children as they return from school, the school bell as it calls the children to school and in from recess. The church has services on Sunday and during the week, and the familiar hymns ring out as they have over the years, and members of many of the same families assemble to worship there. Coals Grove is no longer the bustling rail­ road village of the late 1800s and early 1900s, but the houses are still bustling with activities The railroad was taken up in 1937, giving way to automobiles and motor trucks. Horses and buggies as a means of transportation rarely travel through the village. The general store has been remodeled into a residence. The school, now privately owned, still stands, the bell still in the belfry. The building where Winnie Dove had his garage is still there, and the house and bam built by George Coals remain, still farmed by the Coats family. The church, remodeled and expanded, is. still on the south west comer of the crossroads^ and Charles Fuller's granddaughter, Agnes Fuller Krammin [1929-2019], her husband [Conrad Krammin 1929-20161 and family still farm the Fuller land and still harvest maple syrup in the spring of the year. The railroad bed is still visible through the land. The village located in four townships can still be found and remembered. . Sources: Crossings 1968-1993; Barry County History, 1985; Excerpts from the Diary of George Washington Coats, Lawrence Chase; History of Coats Grove General Store, Beulah Smith Johnson. GRAD, continued from page 1---------------------facility started screening people entering the building. They checked for fevers and other symptoms of the disease. Now-, ROffer said, they are all wearing masks and whatever else they can find for personal protective equipment. “What really made it ‘real’ for me was the day that the residents were told that they weren’t able to have visitors in the building,” RUffer said. She was actually with someone when the no-visitor order went into effect. “The first thing she said to me was, ‘Visits from my daughter are the only things I gel to look forward to.’ It was really heartbreaking, Riiffcr said. For many people living in long-term care facilities, visits from loved ones are the highlight of their days or weeks. The patients have not contracted the novel coronavirus, yet they are experiencing the effect of the disease through the absence of family visits. Although neither RUffer nor anyone close to her has been directly affected by COVID19. she is facing a dilemma as a healthcare professional. “You know you have to protect your residcnis/paiients, but you also know that you need to protect your family as well, RUffer said. “So, you go to work, do everything you can there, and then come home and strip in the garage, hop in the shower and then jump into your role as a mother and wife and do whatever you can to keep your loved ones safe.” But RUffer said she goes to work knowing that the loved ones of her patients would do whatever they could to make sure they are safe and taken care of — just as she would do for her own family. “Their families aren’t able to do that for them, so that’s where we come in. Il s been a blessing to see everyone from all departments working together, going above and beyond their roles - some even moving to different positions - to meet the needs of our residents and patients.” — “You know you have to pro­ tect your residents/patients, but you also know that you need to protect your family as well. So, you go to work, do everything you can there, and then come home and strip in the garage, hop in the shower and then jump into your role as a mother and wife and do whatever you can to keep your loved ones safe." Molly Buffer RUffer, whose mother w as a nurse, attended Kellogg Community College’s physical therapist assistant program, graduating in 2015. “I wanted to go into the medical field because I knew I always liked helping people,” she said. She is an essential worker so she must leave her home every day, but she emphasizes that the best thing people can do to keep each other safe at this time is to stay home. “I see so many people still going out, posting pictures of meeting up with boyfriends or friends, and going to people's houses,” Riiffcr said. “No one should be living in fear, but we aKo need to be taking this seriously and knowing the severity of the virus and protecting the people we love most.” Editor’s Note: Be would like to profile special people in our community - in health care, public safety, education and other fields - who arc working to protect and cart for others at this time. If you would like to suggest someone, please call 269-945-9554, �4 Thursday. Ap’il 9. 2020 Did you The Hastings Banner SCC? A habit worth saving Super Pink Moon dominates night sky The weather in the region Tuesday night was rema’kable: Torrential rainsiomw and hail the size of pens - or larger - were fol­ lowed by a night-sky spectacle featuring the ■Pmk Mixm.” According to the hirmer* Almanac. that name comes from ground phlox, a flower that bkxims in the spring m North America -The Almamn says it aboha> been called the Sprouting Gross Moon, the Egg Moon and (he Fish Moon. It didn t look pink from here, but it sure looked big. In fact it was the biggest supennoon of the sear. It was officially full al 10:35 p.m. But it appeared larger and brighter than usual because the moon wns at perigee, or the clos­ est point to Earth in its elliptical orbit, rhe moon, according to space.com. was 221.77,. miles from Earth Tuesday night, compared io the typical 238J855. What a difference a few thousand miles can make. Doyou remember? Banner April 9, 1959 Inaugurates fund drive — Mayor John \N. Hewitt makes the first official individual contribution to the Band Boosters Club’s $6,000 drive for 85 new uniforms for the Hastings High School Band. Tomorrow evening, the outstanding musical organization, directed by Arthur Steward, will parade through the business district before stopping on the courthouse lawn fora short concert’ After that, majorettes, such as these lovely girls, and others will solicit funds in the downtown area, while a house-to-house canvass will be made throughout the residential district. The funds will start with more than S900 given it by the Lions, the Saxon Boosters and others. Pictured with Mayor Hewitt are majorettes JoEllyn Wilson, Mary Jane Miller and Marie Armstrong. What do you Have you Brian Mckinley of Middleville tends to do good things in quiet ways. Being the center of attention isn't his style. Born Dec. 23, 1982, just outside of Jackson, he is the older of two children of Dr. Rand E. and Cheric G. (Lennox) Mckinley. His parents and sister. Colleen Marino, now reside in Battle Creek. Hie family lived on a small hobby farm, and both Mckinley and his sister were home­ schooled by their mom. Their dad, a dentist, still practices in Battle Creek. Growing up on their farm. Mckinley said, involved a pretty easygoing lifestyle. “We usually finished our schoolwork fair­ ly early and then focused on practical tasks like gardening, repairs, taking care of the animals and such.” he said. His dad had polio at a young age that affected him physically. Mentally and emotionally, his dad has been a lifelong mentor to Mckinley. Mckinley graduated from Spring Arbor University in 2005 with a bachelor's degree in computer science and mathematics. Right after that, lie was hired by HI’S in Middleville, where he is corporate information systems associate. HPS also is where he met his future wile. Brian Mckinley Amy F. DeMund. I'hey’ve been married lor the 10 years and worked together until recently when Amy made the decision to stay esls revolve mainly around cars. He collects home with their 2 Lmonth old son. Cameron. I'l Gaminos, both road model and die cast as He has served on the Barry County Posse well as “Hoi Wheels” collector cars. ‘'Both my dad and my grandfather drove tor the past scwcild year’s and carries the title HI Gaminos, and my first car was an hl of warrant officer. He’s been recognized as going above and ix’yond to serve the all-vol- Gamino. I got into it from there,” he said. "I untccr group's technological needs. He lend to shop around lor good deals, so when recently t< reived the 20f 9 Posse Member of I sec one, I buy it. I own a *68. a *70 SS396 and an ‘84 ” the Year Award. I or his willingness to help his community , Aside from work and the posse, his infer A reader called last week to ask rather wistfully why we hadn’t published police news in the past few weeks. I think he already knew the answer: COVID-19. This coronavirus crisis has changed our news-gathering routine in fundamental ways. This week, reporter Taylor Owens worked with Hastings Police Chief Jeff Pratt and Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf to gather all the information on the calls they receive so we can get back to reporting it in The Banner. “You will see a couple of the police bear stories don’t have some of the usual info we have in those stories, as I did not have direct access to the reports,” Owens said. "Hopefully, that will be sorted out by next week.” Three weeks ago, when the governor’s stay-home order was enacted, city and coun­ ty employees who answered the phones, compiled reports and prepared material for public release, were no longer on the job. Those workers, deemed nonessential during the pandemic, arc certainly safer if they stay at home. Officers ended up having to answer the phones in their departments, and the more routine incident reports, as a matter of prior­ ity. had to be set to the side. We were sorry to see that happen, but we understand why it happened. Luckily, as Central Dispatch/911 Director Stephanie Lehman estimated recently, calls in the county have been down between 8 and 10 percent since the stay-home order went into effect. That, at least, is good news for all of us, including our beleaguered law enforcement officers, who still must interact with everyone to promote public safety and preserve the rule of law. That’s essential. Communication also is essential, and that’s where we come in. As any war will invariably do, the battle with COVID-19 is outlining, in stark relief, the w eaknesses and strengths of the commu­ nity. The fact that Barry County has a local news organization, planted here right in the heart of the county and committed to serv­ ing its residents, is a tremendous strength. We’ve been watching what’s going on, covering the aforementioned police, health department, village, township, city, county and schools, asking a lot of questions, checking reliable sources and reporting on COVID-19 as concerns began to grow. The circumstances relating to this corona­ virus outbreak do make it tougher to cover the community. Our team of writers can’t work together in the newsroom as we would typically do. We tried FaccTime this week for our staff meeting, and it seemed to work fairly well. But it’s not like one of our normal weekly meetings in the newsroom. We write and edit remotely now. Pages are paginated on a computer, but the proof­ ing is at a distance, no team congregating around a screen. Brian Mckinley is this week’s Bunner Bright Light. If I could go anywhere: Alaska, h's very peacctul there, and the nature is vast. 1 he greatest invention: Superconductors. 1 hey are the building blocks of modem tech­ nology. Without them, we would not have the devices we have today. If I could have any superp°wer: Super speed. You can only net to work so fast in your car. fc I’m most proud of: Myson.Cameron. I avontv website; Jflxit.com Mv biggest challenge: Being as good a lather to my son as my father was to me. (.reatest thing about Barry County: The people here are sonte of the friendliest I have ever met. What I’d do if i Won (hc fottery: Buy a travel trader and tOlJr Michigan and then the Best advice ever received: ”The most important thing to do ;\ave fun.” My dad said that. It was his catch phrase- Whenever we went somewhere. W ’ we went in. he’d sa.yHM)cnlhusi;hti4/orv f avorite movie: m. fount of Monte Cristo (2002) 1,1L v Ih*sl gift ever My grandfather’s Last week: What do you think accounts for the difference in the number of COVID19 cases with Eaton County showing more confirmed cases than Barry County? Tlie difference, in my opinion, is that Eaton County (specifically Delta Township) has three variables that make the spread of the virus much more likely than in BarryCounty: 1) High population density 2) Proximity to an international airport 3) Many people coming and going from its locale, especially folks not from Michigan Thomas Funke Hastings nitv papers (the Lakewood News. Maple Valiev News and The Sun and News) wtth The Reminder, involves more adaptations tn production. It's also an adjustment for readMany of our routines - and the habits that go with them - have changed, and we have had to adapt quickly. One thing remains steadfast: Our com­ mitment to our readers. I must admit, though, when thinking of that caller asking about the police news, I had a similar wistful thought for the return of savvy news consumers. What if all the seductive sirens of online distortion - all the junk clogging our com­ munication devices that wastes time and messes with people’s minds - becomes miraculously obvious for what it is? What if people suddenly learn the differ­ ence between opinion and fact? (Please note: We label our opinion pieces.) What if people realize they like having a watchdog around to keep an eye on local government? And if readers don’t like what we report, they can let us know in a variety of ways. Or they can call the owner. He lives here. Yet, even with that strong commitment and local ownership, this business can’t continue to survive without more support and I’m not talking about appreciative com­ ments (although they are certainly wel­ come). Advertising revenue is the lifeblood of most news organizations. With many busi­ nesses closed now and taking a tremendous hit, so arc we. Some other publishing com­ panies in Michigan have suspended printing at this time. We refuse to do so. We have a wild theory that one of the reasons Barry- County is so low in COVID19 numbers is because of solid reporting and good information readers have been getting from the start. Yes, there certainly are other reasons as well - the rural nature of the community surely protects people but so does reliable news reports from peo­ ple who can be held accountable. The need for local news coverage has never been greater. I Yet the economic pressures on publishers are unrelenting - and have been for some time. The scourge of COVID-19 just exac­ erbates the economic situation, and the scorched earth that will be the result may claim many longtime businesses, including this one. What the pandemic has made abundantly clear is this: The community must value and wholeheartedly support the Banner or it will surely lose it. Here’s your chance to take part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the question posed each week by accessing our website, www.HastingsBanner.com, Results w ill be tabulated and reported along with a new question the following week. Today, we're opening the question to allow respondents to give more than a yes or no answer. Please reply in one or two short sentences to assignmenttai-adgraohics enm, ana'traC*','°na' rei'9'ous services this vnar Ch9attl^rin9S are n°l 30 °Plion EasteMhih0W dt° y°U plan 10 ce|ebrate taster this weekend? Banner The Hastings Devoted to the interests of Barry County since (856 Hastings Banner, Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway'•'phone: (269) < com Frederic Jacobs Publisher & CEO CFO other reason'; vK information to Newsroom, |)iwj Vrxl < N M.43 Hnsrii, 8“"*V-or email news^ padj, UuPhivs.eont- W AnoZSr7hange7ac^ging our commu­ think? Hank Schuurinq know -.onK-one w|,u be featured because ot voluW1* s,1° un.|„ving perwnalttj for the M.lri ''\>rk< ha- W tell or ese changes can have an effea if we’re These 'relnl. especially since we re moving not c«L- se facts are changing fast. (For fast because •Page XX" in this column last example. . was‘ missed after the stories were T kt Correct page numbers should have • NEWSROOM • Rebecca Pierce (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer (Sports Editor) Greg Chandler Taylor Owens A8S2SJJ0 DEPARTMENT • Scott Ommen T Mike Gilmore ~ 7 Gfeenfield Jftn»;<s v ,Col,0en Egleston --------- dennie Yonker Subscription Rales: $45 r», u- . _ $50 per year in yeat ln Barry County 'n counties ---------- _ ^Pwyear elsewhere �Ttjo Hastings Banner —• Thursday, April 9, 2020 — Pago 5 Most road projects moving ahead in spite of virus Vv. . < handler M>rfr| '' hire manv peonh* bnv. । r unemployment because ‘ of ^cllfor:c'111,10 Whitmer^Mav.mhX/i Grc,eh‘-" the COVID 19 vllll( |lK. ‘rcM,11,nS*'»•>> projects are ht<« »lv ’ •“ 1X14 nnProvcmcn( Al tru Barry (. ountx kn >,» <• employees are • • br d ’e C Cnrh ' rCharllOn 1>aik u/m. i Unship and the North Avenue badge project m Assyria 'hmnship. nnc.'t.i n°'V ’ "c havc 1101 Put any Oneratio i • n,W pIan,lcd' ^o:ul Commission Operations Director Jake Welch wrote tn an email to the Bamur. We have been working closely with our employees association and developed acceptable distancing procedures lor our guy.> to wotk It s going well. \ou never know when there will be a ••(onn that we need all ol our guys healthy lor.' Hie bridge on* Chorlton Park Road just south of M -1.1 has been closed since OcIoIkt 2019. alter debris blinked the culverts in the Little Thomapple River underneath the bridge, causing water to overflow onto the toad. Nashville Construction is the contractor for both bridge-replacement projects, which ate largely being paid tor by critical bridge funds from the Michigan Department of Transportation. "They were bid as one project lor bid savings. We have not had to lay anyone off," Hospital applies emergency preparedness plan in tent training Spectrum Health Pennock recently erected a triage tent as an extension of the emergency department to screen ami treat patients with symptoms indicative of COVID-19. lhe tent can be used in the future, if it’s needed, for a large number of patients with symptoms ol the coronavirus. Die screening tent, next to the Spectrum Health Pennock’s Medical Arts Building, has been open on a few occasions recently just for training purposes. ’’This provided our physicians, nurses and patient access team the opportunity to become familiar with the flow in a new environment before patient volumes rise.” Bernie Jure, chief operating officer at Spectrum Health Pennock, said. Those with symptoms such as fever and cough, w ith or w ilhoul at shortness of breath, may use an automated screcner at www.spectnimheahh.org/covidl9 or they may call 1(833)559-0659 tor a phone screening. (Please note, a screening is required to deter­ mine if a COVID-19 test is necessary.) “Patients should be assessed by and. if appropriate, referred to the tent through the free COVID-19 screening hotline.” Jore said. In accordance w ith the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. S|>eciruin Health rec­ ommends those with mild ('OVID-19 symp­ toms to stay home and self-quarantine. Hospital staff are working now. while COVID-19 numbers are low in Barry County, to finalize emergency preparedness plans* of a surge in patient numbers should occur. Spectrum Health Pennock president Angela Ditmar said. ’’Pennock is working as part of the greater Spectrum Health System and with other community resources, including our local health department, to ensure we are as prepared as possible to care for COVID-19 patients.” • Tara Walker, emergency department nurse manager, trains on one of the sta­ tions in the screening tent at Spectrum Health Pennock Hospital. (Photo provid­ ed) This includes expanding the capacity lor Intensive Care Unit (ICU) beds. Ditmar noted. ’’Due to the fluidity ot the pandemic, we want to make sure we havc lhe most appropri­ ate plan to address our potential community needs.” she said For more information about COVID-19. including information on symptoms and pre­ vention. visit www.spectrumhealth.org/ covid 19. We learned from the ‘Greatest’ To the editor: Each generation brings its own power. The "Greatest Generation.” those bom between 1901 and 1927. arc the undisputed Greatest Generation. They survived the Great Depression and fought in World War IL They deserve the Congressional Medal of Freedom. My generation, those born between 1939 and 1945. are war babies. We re-shaped the country after World War II. We led the Civil Rights movement. Wc created rock ‘n’ roll. John Kennedy, our hero, created the Peace Corps. My generation went to Vietnam while others, al home, protested the conflict in the streets to bring our soldiers home. In the 60s. we changed Americas culture and attitude toward government. We unraveled Watergate, the most vital political scandal ot the 20th century, that brought down the Nixon administration. Now. wc are all facing the coronavirus, a world pandemic. The number of sick people is rising. Gatherings are forbidden. Restaurants and stores are closed. The stock market is dropping. People are losing their jobs. People are stressed, and the new normal is not normal at all. But. we learned how to face adversity and misfortune from the Greatest Generation. Wc are strong. Wc are resilient and we arc compassionate. We are Americans. We take care of the least among us. We war babies cannot compete with the Greatest Generation’s tradition of leadership, courage and heroism, but we learned from the best there ever was. and being second best is not too bad. Jacqueline Muma, Rutland Charter Township Banner CLASSIFIEDS Welch wrote . st.... Both projects <UL * eu for completion later this summer. Meanwhile, aIlt’ u ,n4J°r construction project is on hold- c'p ‘iccmem of the bridge and reconstruction ° l"5 interchange of US-131 and l(K”h Street m Sowhcas| Ken| County. The bridge ‘ncr the freeway was removed last week, mt the S105 million project has since been suspended, said John Richard, spokesman *or MDOT’s Grand Region. “For lhe safety ot the public and their workers, and to sl‘>w ,l,e/Pread (of COVID19 J. some projects arc being suspended al the discretion ol the contractors. |()()th Street is one of those project^ Richard said. Southbound traffic on US-131 is open at 100th Street for lhe lime being. Northbound traffic on the expressway js sl*(|| advised to use the detour route of Division Avenue, 84th Street and Byron Center Avenue. The project is slated for completion in October. Richard said. While construction has been halted on that project. MDOT has been doing other work around lhe region. Earlier this week, crews were clearing" trees along M-179 west of Hastings. In Middleville, lhe closure of schools for the remainder of lhe school year has resulted in the project timetable being moved up tor reconstruction of East Main Street from Grand Rapids Street lo Irving Road on lhe village s east side. The project will now gel underway Monday. Village Manager Duane Weeks said. The project had originally been scheduled to start in late May after the expected end of classes, but w ith Go\. Whitmer’s decision to cancel in-person classes for lhe rest ot the school year, “it seemed to make a lot of sense to say ‘Yes. go ahead [with moving up the start date),”’ Weeks said. The $264,000 project, which was approved by the village council earlier this year, calls for rebuilding the road surface and new sanitary sewer, as well as new concrete curbs on both sides of the road and construction of a new sidewalk on the south side. The project is expected to take four to five weeks to complete. Weeks said. Johnstown department offering birthday visit Luke Fronchcck Staff Writer In a time of social distancing, a child's birthday party w ith friends, cake and games is not possible. But that doesn’t mean the day cannot Ik* celebrated in a special way. First responders in Johnstown Township are try ing to do just that. "These arc very unsettling limes for all of us. but especially for our children,” a Johnstown Township firefighter said in a Facebook post. “It makes it even more difficult when your child has a birthday occurring [during] the Slay Home, Stay Safe order.”’ Many famdieshave had to cancel birthday plans due to the slay-home orders and federal guidelines recommending gatherings of no more than 10 people. But fire engines and police cars, with sirens and lights, arc not restricted. Johnstown firefighters invite parents of children with an April birthday to call 269­ 721 -9709. ext. 205. or send a private message through Facebook to arrange a visit by a firetruck. Firefighters will slop outside with lights and sirens activated lor a few moments so the children can see the engine from a distance. Due to social distancing guidelines, truck tours will not be available. Because emergency calls are unpredictable, township firefighters said they w ould do their best to appear at homes at a scheduled time, but they will reschedule if n cajj lo service changes that plan. The service is limited to Johnstown Tow nship residents“We hope this will provide some good memories for our children in these difficult times,” a Johnstown township firefighter wrote in a Facebook post. CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 PUBLISHER’S NO I K E: Business Services MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, cus­ tom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804750n.___________________ BELLS CONS TRUCnONlb years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements. Discount tor Senior:. & Vet­ erans. 269-320-.3690 Business Services BUYING Walnut, all ha " WOODS. W^ Oak, luhp Pop|llr. Call lor pricing. Will buv single Wainul trees. Insured, |UMj, & rknunscomp Pefferley Logging, (269)8l8.7793. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads Keep yeur friends and relatives informed and up date with all the l°cal news from Bai'iy County. Send them The Hastings BANNER To subset^11-' call us at: 269-945-9554 LEGAL NOTICES Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement NOTICE JP CREDITORS In th-? Matter of the James J. Va.ra Revocable Trust Dated November 17,1959. as amended. TO AU. CREDITORS The Grantor, J.vnes J Vavra (Date of frflh August 30. 10291. v.ho hved at 3605 Bnstol Oak Street. Dowlr^. Ml 49050-9765. ded March 13, 2C20 There o no pmonal representative c‘ »nt» Granton, estate to whom Letters of Authority havo been issued. Creditors of Jameo J. Vavra, deceased, are notified mat a", claims erjTnst James J. Vavra or the James J. Vavra Revocable Tnm dated November 17. 1969. as amended, win be forever hined unless presented to Mark 0 Vavra, Trustee, within four (4; months after the date of pub! cat-on .Not.ce Is further given that the Tnist assets will thereafter be assigned and distributed to the persons entitled thereto. Date- March 30.2020 James J. Vavra Revocable Trust Dated November 17,1989. as amended Mark D. Vavra, Trustee 3612 Bristol Oak Drive DowLng, Ml 49059 Kre.s, Endedo. Hudgns & Bcrsos, P.C. J. Ryan Conboy(P56590/ Attorneys for Trustee P.O. Box 4010 Kalamazoo. Ml 49003-4010 269-324-3000 139830 Notice is given under section 3212 d the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236. MCL 600 3212. that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a safe of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest b dder for cash cr cashier's cneck a! the place of hc’drg the circuit court in B vry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM. on Apnl 16. 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does no! automnt'caliy cnVtle thn porchusor to free and dear owneiship of the property. A potential purchaser Is encouraged to contact the county register d deeds office or a title Insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information; Name(s) of the mortgagof(s): Michael R. Bern cr and Sandra K. Bernier, husband and wife Original Mortgagc-n: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): The Bank of New York Mellon. F/K/A The Bank of New York as trustee for registered Holders of CWASS, Inc.. Asset-Backed Certificates. Series 2005-9 Dale of Mortgage: June 30, 2005 Date of Mortgage Recording: July 14. 2005 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $141,597.72 Description of the mortgaged premises- Situated in Township of Thomapple. Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Lot 5, Thomapple Bend Estate STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 20-02B462-01 -DE as recorded in Liber 6 of Plats, on Page 35. Common street address (if any): 6714 B g Bend Estate of Barbara Jean Rensenhouse. Date of birth: Nov 21.1928. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, The decedent. Barbara Jean Rensenhouse, died oct. 19, 2019. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented lo Nancy L.. Kinney, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court St.. Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 4-9-20 Nancy L Kinney P.R. 3467 Heath Rd. Hastings, Ml 49058 269-948-3673 139826 Ct, Middleville, Ml 49333-8228 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961. pursuant to MCL 600 3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago. or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact tho attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: March 19. 2020 Trolt Law, PC. 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Suite 145 Farmington Hills. Ml 48334 (248)642-2515 NOTICE Daniel J. Sweda & Associates. PLLC 21650 West Elevon Mile Road, Ste. 200, Southfield Ml 48076. Attorneys. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR YEAR. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 248-973-8737. Attention homeowner; II you are a military service member on active duty, If your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE BY ADVERTISEMENT -Default has been made In tho conditions of a Mortgage granted by Stanley S. Lawrence and Linda K. Lawrence, husband and wife, original mortgagor(s), to Associates Home Equity Services, Inc., as mortgagee, dated September 11, 2000 and recorded on September 21. 2000 in Liber Instrument No. 1049805 Page 1. Barry County Records. Ml. and assigned by an assignment of mortgage to AJ Capital Ventures LLC, as assignee, as documented by an assignment of mortgage recorded on May 30,2019, in Instrument Number 2019-005191, Barry County Records, Ml, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due as the date hereof Ninety Nine Thousand Nine Hundred Thirty Four and 77/100 Dollars ($99, 934.77). plus interest, late fees, and attorney's fees, each of which continues to accrue. Under the power of sale contained In said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them. Notice of foreclosure by advertisement. Notice is hereby given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212. that the following mortgage wiil be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at tho place of holding at the circuit court in Barry County. Ml starting promptly at 01:00 PM on April 23,2020. The amount due on the mortgage may bo greater than tho date of tho sale. Placing the highest bid at lhe salo does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact tho county register ol deeds office or a title insurance company either of which may charge a foo for this information. Said premises are located in Bany County, City of Battle Creek. State of Michigan, and are described as follows: A parcel of land in the Southeast of Section 34, Town 1 North. Rango 8 West, desenbed as: Beginning at a point in the center line of State Highway M-37. which point is 27 rods North a.ong the center Imo of said Highway from the South Imo of said Section 34; thence East 493 feet; thence North 2 degrees 52 minutes East 99.1 feet; thence West 494.5 foot to the center Ime of said highway, thence South along center line of said highway to tho place of beginning. p'aPc^ J®8|n South M-37 Hwy.. Battle Crook. Ml 49017 Tax IO 09-034-012-00 The redemption period -hall bo 6 months from the date of sale, unless abandoned in accordance w.th MOIA WJ JIa. In which case the redemption period shall bo 30 days from tho date of such sale or 15 days from ik ;eiing^S mci a 600 3°4 1 a(b) notice, whichever or pursuant to MCIA 600 3238is Iflater the above referenced property is sold at a ‘^eclo-uro X under MCL 600-3278. the borrower will bo responsib'e to the person who buys the property at ho Sago foreclosure sale or to the mortgage iTSrmay bo* Jindod by tho foreclosing i i x in that event your djm^ges. if any, XSrnittd solely to the return of thn bid amounl jnnJ^ed at sale plus interest Tho purchaser shall L d no h rthe- recourse against tho Mortgagor. laVMnrtnaaeo‘ o’ the Mortgagee’s attorney. AJ tho Mortgagee o. ?3 ?Q2Q n3Prl JVSw^3 * Associates. PLLC. Attorneys Dan.cl J. Sw 21650 West Eleven Mile Ml -'8076. Phone 248­ 937-8737. 139476 (O3-26)(O4-1OJ 1413324 (03-19)(04-09) 139041 Attention homeowner If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or It you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at lhe telephone number stated In this notice. Notice ot foreclosure by advertisement. Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961. 1961 PA 236. MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage wifi be foreclosed by a safe of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sa’e to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM on MAY 21.2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact tho county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this Information. Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Carol Jean Risner, surviving spouse, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 4, 2006 and recorded October 18. 2006 in Instrument Number 1171615 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage Is now held by Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee, on behalf of the holders of the J.P. Morgan Mortgage Acquisition Trust 2007-HE1 Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2007-HEl. by assignment. There is claimed to be due at the date hereof the sum of Sixty-Seven Thousand Six Hundred Eighty-Four and 66/100 Dollars ($67,684.66). Under the power of sale conta-ned in said mortgage and the statute In such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at public vendue at the place of holding the circuit court within Barry County. Michigan at 1:00 PM on MAY 21,2020. Said premises are located in the Townchip of Orangeville, Barry County Michigan, and are described as: PARCEL 1: LOT 39 OF LAPHAMS AIRPORT LOTS. BEING A PART OF SECTION 8. TOWN 2 NORTH. RANGE 10 WEST, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN THE OFFICE OF REGISTER OF DEEDS FOR BARRY COUNTY. PARCEL 2: LOT 57 AND THE NORTH 14 FEET OF LOT 40 OF LAPHAM'S AIRPORT LOTS. ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLATS THEREOF. BEING PART OF THE WEST 1/2 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 8. AND PART OF THE WEST 1/2 OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 8. TOWN 2 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP. BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN. 5797 Marsh Road, Shelbyv>He, Michigan 493-14 The redemption period shall ba 6 months from lhe date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance w.th MCLA §600.324la. in wh>ch case tho redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sate If the property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278, tho borrower will be hold responsible to the person who buys lhe property at lhe mortgage foreclosure sale or to lhe mortgage holder for damage to the property during lhe redemption period. Dated: April 2. 2020 File No 20-003617 Firm Name: Orlans PC Finn Address: 1650 West Big Beaver Road. Ttuy Mi 48084 Finn Pncne Number- (248) 502.14C0 (04-02)(04-23) 139676 �’ --^IbvJpan H<HVklns Doughs George fqyeBe// Eileen Pierson to celebrate her 98th birthday • ’ Eileen Pierson is celebrating her 98th birthday on April 13th! Card greetings can be sent to: Cornerstone Living Center, Attn: Eileen Pierson. 2900 Kellems Drive, Hastings, Ml 49058. Faye Bell, age 74 of Dowling, passed away Monday. March 30,2020 in Hastings. She was bom February 9, 1946 in Grand Rapids, to parents Benjamin and Lucille (Stratton) Lindeman. She enjoyed reading, knitting, bowling and spending time with her family. She is survived by her daughters, Tammy (lim) Healey and Stacey (Jon) VanWynen; stepson, Rob Bell: grandchildren, Jackie (Justin) Engle. Tyler (Shari) Smeengc, Hannah and Lucas VanWynen. Lauren Gecsaman, Dustin and Dakota Healey, Robbie and Sidney Bell; niece. Michelle (Larry) Sherer; and two beloved dogs. Sugar and Smokey. She was preceded in death by her parents, Benjamin Lindeman and Lucille (Graham) Myers; husband, Robert Bell; sister, Linda Clark; and son. Christopher Farw ell. Lauer Family Funeral Home - Wren Chapel 1401 N. Broadway Hastings, has been entrusted with the care of Mrs Bell and her family. Please leave condolences for the family at www.lauerfh.com. LAUEP Douglas George Bowman, age M. passed away peacefully at homc on March 31. -020 in Hastings. Douglas was bom on October 15, 1955. the son ot George and Christine (May) Bowman. Douglas was a loving father to his son, Corey M. Bowman. Doug really enjoyed working for the Justin Buggy Company and riding his Harley. He enjoyed hunting and fishing. ,. „ „ Doudas is survived by his son, Corey Bowman of Nashville and his sister Julie Ingram of Hastings. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Christine Bowman. I thought of you with love today but that is nothing new I thought about you yesterday and days before that too, I think of you in silence ...I often speak your name All I havc are memories and your picture in a frame Your memory is my keepsake with which I’ll never part God has you in His keeping I will always have you in my heart. Due to the Michigan Governor’s Executive Order limiting gatherings, the family will schedule a visitation and service at a later date and will be posted at our website. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, to leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralliome.net. . urn-' State unemployment agency adds hours, staff The Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency has announced that it will add staff and hours to better serve an unprecedented increase in customers filing unemployment claims as a result of COVID-19. The UIA has extended call center hours by an hour every day from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and it will stay open from 7 am. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. Customers who arc w'aiting on the phone in the call center and online chat queues before closing lime will have their calls or chats resolved that day. The UIA said it continues to increase call center resources and has nearly quadrupled staffing levels over the last several weeks. Normal staffing levels are around 130 employees. By March 30, approximately 300 staff members were answering calls and, by the end of this week, an estimated 500 employees will be dedicated to the call center. Hundreds of additional staff arc expected to be added to the call center in the coming weeks. “Thank you to Michigan’s working fami­ lies for their patience as the UIA continues to provide emergency financial assistance during this unprecedented increase in unemployment claims,” Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity Director Jeff Donofrio said. “We continue to ramp up our services to make sure every eligible Michigander receives their ben­ efits as quickly as possible. “We’re asking workers to please reserve the phone lines for those who cannot go online or arc having trouble with their “retest way <o file a claim is online al wwwMichigan.gov/UIA, where the process every eligible worker in the state who applies K Av »«*•* • < 1 work to apply for benefits. Additionally, claims will be back-dated to reflect the date on which lhe claimant was laid off. If there arc continued technical issues with a worker's account, the UIA will allow additional time to ensure benefits arc paid. The latest U.S. Department of Labor report shows that, since March 15,more than 420.000 workers filed initial unemployment claims in Michigan. Between March 15 and March 21, 127,810 claims were filed. Between March 22 and March 28,303.638 claims were filed. The two weeks prior to that saw about 10,000 total initial claims filed, which equates to a more than 4,000-pereent increase in ini­ tial unemployment claims. The highest week for initial claims during the Great Recession, was around 77,000 claims in January 2009. For online filing at Michigan.gov/UIA, customers arc encouraged to use off-peak times from 8 pan. to 8 a.m. Last names beginning with letters A-L should file their claims on Mondays. Wednesday, Fridays. Last names beginning with letters M-Z should file their claims on Sundays, Tuesdays" or Thursdays. Saturdays will be available for anyone to accommodate those who could not file during the allotted window. For the Call Center at 1 (866)500-0017. the schedule is as follows: Last names beginning with letters A-L: Call on Mondays and Wednesdays between 8 a.m. and 6 pan. Last names beginning with letters M-Z: Call on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Fridays between 8 a m. and 6 p.m. and Saturdays between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. are open for anyone who could not file on their allotted days. • Traditional and Cremation Services • Preplanning Services • Uigc Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible . Serving /Ml Faiths Pie-arrangement Transfers Accepted 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 269-945-3252 • www.glrrbachftineraUiome.ni-i K.«y <>irrhu<|) I) .It BtlHnU'l* ' ........ “. Hillg I dinily CHVI1VO . .uutrlm< |1U| surrounding < ramnumucs lor -mi \car«» Dorothy Jean Hawkins, a lifelong resident of Hastings. wcni homc (o l)C with her u)rd and Savior, JCsu,t Qn A pri| 4, 2O2O at Caneth Village in Midd|Cvinc. Dorothy was hom on Apri| 30, 1931, lhe daughter of WiHiam Rcid and Altn Bellc (Callahan) Reid, D()rnthy was a 1949 graduate of Hastings Hinh School. On July 30, 1949 she married Harold F. Hawkins, and they were married for 52 years prior to his death. Dorothy was a beautician in Hastings and was the owner of her own business called “The Curling Inin", $hc served on the Hastings City Council from 2002-2006. She was a member of Cedar Creek Bible Church and worked for jears in the Sunday School Program at First Baptist Church of Hastings and loved singing in the choir. She liked to travel, enjoyed camping with family, but most of all. just spending time with her family and grands. Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband; parents; and siblings. Thelma Campbell. Margaret Armour, Robert Meredith. Earl Wajne, and Helen Foster She was born the joungest of eight children on her eldest sistefj 19^ birthday. Dorothy is survived by her' daughters. Neysa (Steve) Kirouac, Pamela (Larry) Cook, Joan (Ron) Schtubba. Stephanie (Tim) Girrbach; eight godchildren, Noclle, Brook. Courtney, Callie, Joshua. Luke, Katie, and Quinn; 2j great-grandchildren, Jillian. Rey. Lorraine.Agnus. Seth. Marcus. Eldon, Peter, Eleanor,Lucy, Jocelyn, Jaxon, Avner. Isela. Flannery,Desmond. Zachary, Zocy, Gradon. Mtlah aniChancc. A graveside service vis held on Monday, April 6, 2020 at Hastings Township Cemetery'. Pastor Robot Norton of Cedar Creek Bible Church officiating. A Celebration of Life will be held at a future time. Arrangements by Ginbtch Funeral Home, lo leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbach funeral home net. Ted McKelvey to celebrate 90th birthday Ted McKelvey is turning 90 this month. He can receive mail at 5050 E. Maple Grove Road, Hastings, MI 49058, for those wishing to acknowledge his birthday. Rather than making a trip lo lhe store to purchase a card, his family suggests writing and sending him a note. Including a memory or two with Ted from the past would be much appreciated. J^ewborn babies Lucy Mae Osterbrock, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on February 22, 2020 lo Ashley Ann Osterbrock and Thomas Alan Osterbrock of Wayland. AMlJt Eleanor Marie Converse, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on February 25. 2020 to Kazzi Converse and Nathan Converse of Hastings. Emellyn Kaye, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on February 26, 2020 to Danielle Nuremberg and Zackary Nuremberg of Hastings. u 11 * Zakk Wyatt Urias, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on February 29. 2020 to Brittany Urias of Wayland. ♦♦♦*f Aurora C. McDiarmid, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on March I. 2020 to Samantha Gonsalves and Neil McDiarmid of Hastings. James Matthew Haack, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on March 2, 2020 to Jocelyn Haack and Matthew Haack of Wayland. Kyler Dewayne Maurer, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on March 7.2020 to Brianna Kwekel and Robert Maurer of Hastings. ***** Levi Jerome Goodroe, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on March 10.2020 to Ashley Goodroe and Alex Goodroc of Hastings. ***** Easton Loren Kauffman, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on March 11, 2020 to Andrea Kaulfman and Anthony Kauffman of Nashville. Waverly Davis Offringd. bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on March 23, 2020 to Jillian Offringd and Matthew Offringd of Middleville Quid Lake Casino employees placed on short-term furlough as closure continues The Gun Lake Casino b extending ils cl°‘ sure until further notice, according to an April 7 news release. “We have been working quickly to adapt to the growing coronavirus pandemic,” Sal Scmola, president and chief opening officer for the casino, said in a news release issued Tuesday. “It is important forus t0 rcma‘n in touch with our guests team members, and our entire community, especially noW during these uncertain times “To prevent the'snread of coronavirus (COVID-19). we hav^nude lhe decision to support Gov. Greteh -n Whitmer's original directive and extend ollr rolun'^> short-tenn closure until further "We wi" Placid certain team member groups on a shr,n plough to navigate -hrough the fin^™ %t caused by the pandemic.” 1 ” Semola said thc will temporarily reduce lhe base s.,, “ of key members of management and th .;«• executive team. “Gun Uke n members are famil^ and this was a s^^cult decision." he Gun Lake Casin ... w,niinue to monitor the situation wiik° W1 r nters f°r Diseasc Control and pJ.h l,le u the Michigan department for J.Human Services. All casino 2l,h ‘“Ijing' promotions, free play offer, . '"."’^fitrs have been postponed. ’ un<l dinmfi Sleep like an elephant Dr. Universe: How do sleeping darts work, like those for elephants? Jonathan, 7, Pullman, Wash. Dear Jonathan, Some people get nervous when they go to the doctor. Maybe you’re one of them. You may not enjoy all of the visit, but you understand the doctor wants to help you. (And that a treat might await you at the end.) But if an elephant gels sick, it can’t understand a doctor’s words. The elephant may get confused and scared, until it’s too dangerous to help it. That’s why sleeping darts — also known as tranquilizer darts — help so much. “It’s safer for both the humans and the elephant because thc humans aren’t right next to a wild animal, and the animal isn’t being chased to try to catch it.” Dr. Tamara Grubb said. She is a veterinarian at Washington State University who specializes in anesthesiology, drugs that make animals calm, sleepy or unable to feel pain. Veterinarians and other scientists use sleeping darts to safely handle wild animals, including sick or injured creatures. Depending on what needs to be done, darts contain different kinds of calming drugs. Different drags have different effects on the body and brain. Tranquilizers help animals become less excited, while still awake. If lhe animal just needs to stay calm, the dart will contain tranquilizers. But if the animal needs to be completely still and unable to feel pain, lhe dart will also have anesthetics. Anesthetics cause animals to sleep long enough for people lo handle them. Darts look similar to a needle and syringe, like your doctor uses. A chamber for liquid holds the drag. A plunger pushes that drug into the needle. But the veterinarian can’t inject lhe drug from far away. So darts have a built-in device lo do this, usually a container of lightly packed air. “Tlie dart flies through lhe air, meets resistance, and stops. When it meets resistance, the plunger makes that little charger go,” Grubb said. “Il’s just like the doctor pushing lhe plunger on the syringe, except the doctor isn’t there.” Once the drug enters the elephant’s muscle, changes begin. 'Their blood carries the drug to lhe brain. Within the brain, chemicals send signals to lhe rest of lhe body. Some of those chemicals send messages that keep the elephant awake. Sleeping drugs work by shutting those chemicals off for a while. The drug causes changes in the brain similar to a nap. but much deeper. The animal won’t have dreams, but it will be completely unaware. Within 15 minutes, it will be fully asleep. Veterinarians might have only 30 minutes before an elephant wakes up. so they work quickly. They help the elephant into a safe, comfortable position, often w ith ropes. “It can be very complicated to support a big elephant. Il takes a lot of work and a lot of people,” Grubb said. Once the work is done, veterinarians give another drug to wake lhe elephant. They watch from a distance to !>e sure the elephant stays safe. /\nd the elephant wanders away, perhaps a bit confused, from the strangest nap it has ever had. Dr. Universe Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington Slate University 's resident scientist and writer at Dr.Universehi wsu.edu or visit her website, askdruniverse£om. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. April Apt!i 9. 2020 — Page 7 survey findS Americans optimistic despite uncertainty wi]l be better than before the^^^lrus during the Comn-tCin., n'u?' • lirus1 paudetni niost are w ilimg to make sjgni( - . p* cn,,c c™,c» ’ ;r. many are opti„lis,iv has They also believe that ro\ cm , u,urcttthiJg the approgriXS,"^^ « RCWarc” P^t of Research AmXinc!^’ We are at a critical |ime pSW.feSK*Retr^ m '?1K H<"ve'.cr' n'OM Africans are sst lmg to adhere to thetr state’s stay-at-home order it it s tor the greater good, with 69 |x'rcenl Saying ^"6 lhey ,hc-v can «•> acccpt accept eMrcmc extreme limitations tor tor more more than than aa month month ififitit helps helps to to limitations suppress so suppress the the infection infection rate. rate. TV-o-third, l\vo-thinds go go so far far ns as to to sav say ihrv they don't rn» care how i,,„„ long restrictions are in place if it prevents widespread illness and death.” On the other hand, about one-quarter of respondents. 27 percent, said they feel thc social distancing and other limitations go loo far, and only 11 percent said they worry about transmitting the virus to others. The poll of 600 U.S. adults also found that 75 percent agree with the extreme measures put in place to protect people from the coronavirus. A high number said (hey strongly support such measures as mass cancellations and closings (87 percent), travel bans (86 percent), restricted visitation at hospitals, nursing homes and similar places, (86 percent) and the closing of borders (82 percent). “The poll results also show that altruism is alive and well throughout the U.S. with Americans continually demonstrating selfless acts for the well-being of others,” Repass added. “People are clearly more concerned rus ... We do it all the lime.” The problem with COVID-19, he said, is that it has a very long incubation period, as much as two weeks, and many of thc people who carry it don’t even know, so it spreads before anyone knows it. “We felt comfortable this patient is no lon­ ger contagious, but we are treating him as if he was,” Haney said. The standard length of stay for patients in their rehabilitation unit is 14 days, he added, pointing out that he was told Barry' County’s first case of COVID-19 is completely healed and ready to return to work. COMPLIANCE, continued from page 1 Human Services issued its own executive ' order declaring civil fines may reach up to ’$1,000. “In addition to civil penalties, entities regu­ lated by a licensing agency will be referred to ‘relevant licensing agencies for additional enforcement action as determined by that agency.” according to a statement from lhe MDHHS. Despite the questions many people may have about lhe executive order, Nakfoor-Pratt ‘.'said Barry County businesses are doing their * best to follow it. "I am really thankful that our area business­ . es, even though this is difficult for them. I am t thankful that a vast majority have been will- ing to work with law enforcement.” NakfoorPratt said. “I think they’re trying to make sure every body is staying safe and healthy... So far, we’ve been getting a really good response.” “If individuals or businesses have questions about whether or not they are in compliance, or whether they fall under one of lhe excep­ tions to Executive Order 2020-21,” the prose­ cutor added, “I encourage them to review lhe governor’s executive order and the FAQ sec­ tion for clarification. “If they still have questions or concerns, lhey can consult local law enforcement, or email me al jpralt(E barrycouniy.org.” Provided by the Barry County offices of Edward Jones Brandon Wilkins ... Jeff Domenico, AAfrlS® 307 E. Green St, Ste. 1 450 Meadow Run Dr. Suite 100 Hastings, Ml 49050 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 940-2003 (269) 948-0265 Avoid touching retirement savings early You contribute to an IRA and 401 (k) to help build the financial resources you’ll need to enjoy a comfortable retirement. But despite these funds being set aside for retirement, many investors use them before they retire More than half of Americans tap into tlieir retirement savings early, according to a survey from Magnify Money, a website focusing on financial topics. How can you avoid this problem? Il’s obviously important to leave your retirement savings untouched, as much as possible, until retirement. You could spend two or three decades as a retiree, so you’ll need a lot of financial resources. Of course, its understandable why some people touch their retirement accounts early: According to the Magnify Money survey, about 23% did so to pay °f* debts, 17% to make down payments on a home, 11% to pay for college, and the rest for other reasons. While you also might consider these needs for taking an early withdrawal or loan from your retirement account, you’ve got good reasons for not touching your IRA or 401(k) before you retire. First, >ou may face tax penalties if you w ithdraw money from vour IRA and 401 (k) before 59 though there are exceptions. Also, if your withdrawals from your retirement accounts are large enough, they could push you into a higher lax bracket. Plus, the longer you leave your money intact, the more you’ll probably have when you need it in retirement. Let’s use the survey results to look at some additional points you might evaluate before using funds from your retirement accounts for other purposes: • Paying oJJ debts -- You could consider using a 401(k) loan to pay down some high-interest rate debt, but this move assumes two things - one, you don’t plan on taking on additional high interest rate debt, and two, you plan on repaying lhe loan from your 401 (k) within five years. If you don’t, you could face penalties. . Staking a down payment on a home - The IRS allows first-time homc buyers to make a penaltyfree withdrawal of $10,000 from an IRA to make a down payment on a home; however, taxes could still be owed. You might be better off by delaying the purchase ofa home, giving you time to build up additional savings, held outside your retirement accounts, that could be used nfOrn-d by'thrii"1’1'' E°v?rnor- 56 percent’, followed by tnc» ol satisrifd/rx sldcnl Miu p > ^X^unru^^ingn-wait.^.^. for the down payment. • Paying for college - If you haven’t saved enough for a child approaching college, you might consider withdrawing from your retirement accounts to do so. If the funds are used for qualified education expenses, you may be able to withdraw from you IRA without paying a penalty, but again, taxes could be owed on thc withdrawn funds. Alternatively, if you have more time, you could consider opening tax­ advantaged 529 accounts for younger children to help pay lor their education. As the name suggests, a retirement account is designed for retirement, so do whatever you can to protect it. You may want lo consult with a financial professional for guidance on meeting the other needs people cite in tapping into their retirement accounts early. The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be to make the best decisions you can for your situation. Phis article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Eduard Jones. Member SIPC life, 54 percent, new advancements will be made in medicine, 52 percent, and people will be more compassionate, 35 percent. Actions Americans feel will have lhe most positive impact inchide paid sick lease for coronavirus recovery for themselves or to care for a family member. 67 percent; expanded SNAP and other benefits, 67 percent; extended unemployment benefits, 66 percent; and highly subsidized, reduced-cost or free medical services for coronavirus treatment and prevention, 65 percent. Two in five Americans said they worry about health care costs increasing postcoronavinis pandemic, 42 percent, and having to work longer in life than anticipated to offset money lost during this time. 41 percent. The Research America, Inc Covid-19 Public Opinion Poll was conducted March 26 to 29. “"‘•“rhi, was highly *£"<'«« on political ’• » -n iss expected, more ^blicans' were ' whh President Trump’s handling of coronavirus SER VIC£S, continued from page 1 ■ RECOVERY, continued from page 1 Haney said. Haney said these precautions are being taken even though the patient has exceeded the guidelines established by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and lYevenlion lo deter­ mine a threat of contagion. Those guidelines are: No fever for al least 72 hours (which means three full days of no fever without the use medicine that reduces . fevers); other symptoms have improved; and at least seven days have passed since those symptoms first appeared. Thomapple Manor has cared for patients with contagious infections in the past. Haney noted. “We’ve cared for people with norovi- about aa family family ’'W'" l!c,li"8 sid! about \\c p-sponded th . than themselves. Nineteen . lo them T Nineteen ... :..,i ^mconc v ..,„t m.i_C ' u,’l die, wonied wh0 are";'^ compared to ’ .(11g. about themscbc> ‘. y percent x.,;,! Neariy rigid want on griincs. 0„v in f titans and m t conci.rn(.d lh;1| t, K'n 'tvste lM’ °V'rt,u«lcned. and healthcare s>sIt . f ^re needed U°S Cent.’-* '!’r Control and pion’ pandemic, 73 percent, as compared lo Democrats, 22 percent Although 20 percent of those surveyed said they are concerned about the virus causing an economic recession, few expressed worry about permanently losing their job, only 7 percent; their company going out of business, 5 percent; or the loss of retirement income from stocks and 401(k), 8 percent. More than half, 57 percent, said they feel confident that their job will be secure throughout thc pandemic. Based on the survey, Americans believe there are brighter days ahead with 40 percent saying the world will be a “belter place” after the virus is under control, compared to 18 percent who believe thc world will be worse off. In a year or two, half believe the world will be better because people will havc an appreciation for what is really important in “We did conununio^ tiist Sunday. Wc have a Bible study online- All of our Worship team takes a turn streaming live music,” Scobey wrote in a message to the Banner. “Certain people in our congregation [arc] reaching out. making sure if y«u nced 10 havc prayers, [they] will take [prayerJ requests. Our churches are really stepping up.” Online services also are planned at Hastings Church of the Nazarcne. where the Rev. Danny Quanstrom, said he draws parallels between the isolation people are experiencing now and what Jesus’ disciples experienced in the period between lhe crucifixion and resurrection. “That first Easter,so long ago. the disciples were hiding away in their home afraid of what was going on in the world outside,” Quanstrom wrote in an email to the Banner. “Like many today, those first disciples held up in their house feared for their lives. And yet, it was in lhe midst of that isolation and that fear that thc resurrected Christ first appeared.” Quanstrom said he fully supports thc steps that have been taken so far to try to reduce the spread of COVID-19. “It is apparent that the best way for us to love one another, particularly the vulnerable, during this pandemic, is to encourage social distancing.” he w’role. “We are also called to live wisely. It seems foolish to follow ’armchair experts’ arif ignore the reports of scientists, epidemiologists and health professionals." Like at TVC, Quanstrom said congregants al the Church of the Nazarene are staying connected digitally, and if necessary, personally. “Our congregational care team is making weekly calls to as many folks in the congregation as possible. Many of our folks don’t have Facebook, or even internet, so we are making personal calls regularly,” he wrote. Meanwhile, the youth group at lhe church meets weekly via Zoom, an app that has exploded in use during the virus in helping people stay connected. Teens in the group play games, share devotionals and swap life stories during their virtual meetings. Small groups also are meeting digitally for Bible study, and each Thursday, the church hosts a virtual prayer meeting, Quanstrom wrote. He noted that giving at the Church of the Nazarene has decreased during this period, but he has noticed an increased use of giving online. “We’ve had online giving set up for years now. but folks are beginning to take advantage of it more during this time,” he wrote. “I published a tutorial showing just how safe and easy it is to give online-’’ Quanstrom is encouraging people to live wisely and sacrificially during this season. “As good Americans, we are inclined to defend our rights tooth and nail. But as good Christians, we arc called to lay down our rights for the sake of the other, even our enemies. As such, we ought to be those taking social distancing most seriously. We ought to be those buying gmeeries for our elderly neighbors. We ought to be those who care more about lhe well-l*11^ of persons in our community than the exercising op our own individual rights.” get all THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hasting^ Banner. Call 269-9'15-9554 for more l^bRation. Suspect claiming to have COVID-19 spits at officers The Hastings City Police Department was dispatched to lhe 200 block of West Clinton Street for a domestic assault at 9:38 p.m. March 26. A woman told officers she had been assaulted and strangled by her husband, and was afraid for her life. The 55-year-old man was placed under arrest, but started lo resist. As lhe officers were taking him out of the house, he kicked the front door open and started spitting at lhe officers and claiming he had COVID19. He also spit and kicked at emergency medical technicians who were called to treat the victim. The suspect was lodged at lhe Barry County Jail for assault with intent to commit great bodily harm by strangulation, domestic violence (his third offense) and resisting and obstructing police and EMTs with intent to do great bodily harm. The suspect later tested negative for COVID-19. Man claims wife threatened to shoot him Barry County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched at 9:03 p.m. April 3 to the 800 block of Riverbend Lane in Middleville for a domestic violence complaint involving a handgun. A 23-year-old Middleville man said he went to his 24-year-old wife’s residence to drop off groceries for their kids, and she told him “you can leave now or I will shoot you in the head.” He said he left immediately. The couple is undergoing divorce proceedings. The man said his wife does own a handgun, and he wanted to press charges. 'Flic woman told police she had asked thc man to leave several times, and he got mad, threw the groceries and began mumbling threats. She said she told him, “if I have lo, I will use my gun,” and he left. Information was forwarded to the Barry County Prosecutor’s Office. More than $9,000 reported stolen from vehicles A 21-year-old man called police at 5:46 a an. April 1 to report S9JD00 had been stolen from his unlocked truck in the 12000 block of Blue Lagoon Road in Orangeville Township. The man said he discovered it was missing March 22, and it must havc been stolen March 21. The man said he did not report it at the time because he works a lot of hours, doesn’t get a lot of sleep, and thought he “might have been dreaming.” He said another $300 was stolen out of a different truck April I, while it was in the 12000 block of Theris Drive in Yankee Springs Township. He said the $9,000 was from the sale of a Bobcat, and the $300 was for gas. The officer advised the man to lock his vehicles, refrain from storing large amounts of money in vehicles and to call the police immediately after a theft. The case is inactive with­ out any leads. intoxicated suspect tells officers he has COVID-19 Hastings City Police Officers responded to a verbal domestic complaint in the 100 block of East High Street April 2. Officers arrived to find a 33-year-old man hiding behind a tree in the backyard. He was intoxicated and admitted lo drinking a pint of vodka. He also was on probation, for which thc use of alcohol was prohibited. The man was suspected of stealing money from the residence in an earlier complaint. After thc investigation was completed, the man told officers he was positive for COVID-19 and needed lo go to lhe hospital. An officer rode in the ambulance to the hospital with the man, since he had been showing aggression toward officers and EMS personnel. Information has been forwarded to lhe Barry County Prosecutor’s Office. The suspect later tested negative for COVID-19. Unlocked vehicles burgled in Middleville Eight unlocked vehicles were broken into in a subdivision near Lee Elementary School in Middleville, between 7 pan. April 6 and 10 p.m. April 7. Mostly loose change was taken, but a $160 pool cue also was stolen. A computer inside one vehicle was thrown onto the lawn. The Barry County Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with information to call 269-948-4801, or the Barry County Silent Observer at 1-800-310-9031. Burglars cut hole in wall of Dollar General The Dollar General Store in Dowling was broken into around 4:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 8. Two suspects, who appeared to be male, cut a hole into the wall of the store using power tools. They grabbed a trash barrel and filled it with merchandise. A full list of stolen items is still being compiled. The sheriff’s office is asking anyone with information to call 269-948­ 4801 or Barry County Silent Observer, 800-310-9031. NOTICE OF ELECTRONIC MEETING The City Council of the City of Hastings will offer an electronic option for public participation for the meeting at 7:00 I’M on Monday. April 13,2020 in response to the concerns of COVID-19. This is a regularly scheduled meeting that can be viewed on the City’s website (https://hastiyiRsrni.9rg/livgstrg.amZ) If public would We '« Oillfeipatg ip the mevting^kas£.joim. Internet: hflps;/ZgLobaLsQtomeetinaGOiMQin/4456QQ645 You can also dial In using your phone. United States (Toll Free): 13£6..899J)6Z9 United States: +1JS69).224-3319 Access Code: 445-600-645 �8 — IbufSday. Apni 9. 2020 —- Tlv Hastings Banner 2019-20 Winter AH-Ba County Underclassmen fill girls’ bowling first team Dalace Jousma Brett Bremer Sports Editor It was a season of growth, great perfor­ mances and near misses for Barry County’s two high school bowling programs. The Hastings girls got to compete in the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference for the first time, chasing conference honors at die end of the season. The Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ bowling team was one of the best in the OK Gold/Grecn Conference this winter, and has a lot to look forward two with a roster filled with underclassmen this winter. There isn’t a single senior on lhe All-Barry County First Team this winter. There will be some extra motivation lo chase stale finals spots during the 2020-2021 season as a few juniors were just shy of qualifying for lhe state finals this winter, including couple who did cam spots in the state finals a year earlier as sophomores. Here arc lhe 2019-2020 All-Barry County Girls’ Bowling First and Second Teams. 2019-20 All-Barry County Girls' Bowling First Team Ashland Hoyt. Hastings: A junior who was a state qualifier as a sophomore. Hoyt put together the county’s top scoring average at just under 174 points per match. She had a high-game of 256. She led lhe Saxons at their Division 2 Regional Tournament at the end of the season. Ashland Hoyt Carly Snyder placing 12th. just 13 points shy of the last of the state qualifiers from the region. She rolled a 222 at the regional, a single game total sur­ passed only by the regional champion on the day. Hoyt was all-conference in the lnterstate-8 with a ninth-place finish al the conference singles tournament. Dalace Jousma. Thomapple Kellogg: A junior, she was the lop individual al the OK Gold/Green Conference Tournament, rolling games of 259. 236 and 200. Hie 259 was lhe highest single game point total for any TK girl this winter. Jousma had a scoring average of 169 points per game on the season, and closed out the year with a 19th-place regional finish. Daisy Kerby, Hastings: Kerby rolled the highest single game of any Saxon this winter, putting up a total of 259 while connecting on seven strikes in a row during an 1-8 dual at JAX 60. She placed 18th at thc 1-8 conference sin­ gles tournament, and had an overall scoring average on lhe season just over 148 as a junior. Andrea Rhodes, Hastings: Rhodes capped off a great freshman season by placing 15th at her team’s Division 2Regional Tournament at the end of the seasonShe rolled a high-game of 185 at the rvgionaland Rhodes just missed earning conference Mn»rs in the 1-8 this win­ ter. placing 16th at tit conference singles tournament. She had a scoring average just over 149 for lhe season, and rolled a high game of 219. Carly Snyder, Thornapple Kellogg: Snyder finished seventh overall in the OK Gold/ Green Conference in scoring average this winter, putting up a total of 172 points per game. She was a state qualifier as a sophomore, and nearly got back to the Division 2 Lower Peninsula State Finals with a 17ih-place regional finish. She was 62 points shy of the last of the state qualifiers at lhe end of lhe season. She rolled a high-game of 225 on the season. 2019-20 All-Barry County Girls’ Bowling Second Team Abby Barton, Hastings: Barton put together a scoring average just over 127 this winter. A freshman, rolled a high game of 177 on the season. Faith Foster, Thomapple Kellogg: A sopho­ more. Foster pul together a scoring average of 125 points per game this winter. She had a high single game of 200 during an Gold/Green dual against Unity Christian in mid-January. Connie Ricketts, Hastings: Ricketts had a high game of 199 in her senior season, putting together a scoring average just over 127 points per game. She had a high single game of 157 at her team’s Division 2 Regional Tournament at the end of the season. Cayleigh Willard, Thomapple Kellogg: Willard put together a season scoring average of 136 this winter, rolling a high single game of 193. Another of three juniors in the top three scorers on the season for the Trojans, Willard was third on her team at regionals as well at the end of the season where she placed 28th with a high single game of 172. Ab by Zull, Hastings: Zull finished off her senior season with a high game of 187 during her team’s Division 2 Regional Tournament in Kalamazoo at thc end of February. Zull averaged just over 127 points per game this winter, with high-game overall of 179 during the regular season. State-qualifying Tropns tead county on lanes Brett Bremer Sports Editor It was an exciting winter for thc local var­ sity boys’ bowling teams in Barry’ County. The Hastings varsity boys' bowling team competed in lhe Interslale-8 Athletic Conference competition with a full schedule of matches for the first time. The Lakewood varsity boys’ bowling team continued lo be one of the lop contenders for a Greater Lansing Activities Conference crown. Thc Thomapple Kellogg boys were better than contenders. They were champions. The Trojans went 24-2 in OK Gold/Grecn Conference duals and clinched a conference championship with a third-place finish at the league tournament. The Trojans followed up their regular sea­ son performance by earning a regional run­ ner-up title and a spot in lhe Division 2 Lower Peninsula Team Stale Finals with a pair of guys also earning spots in the Division 2 state singles championship. Here are the 2019-2020 All-Barry County Boys’ Bowling First and Second Teams. 2019-20 All-Barry County Boys’ Bowling First Team Colton Hicswa, Thomapple Kellogg: In lhe lop 15 in scoring average among all lhe OK Gold/Green guys this winter. Hicswa had a 185 average in conference contests with a high single game score of 247. A senior, Hicswa was among thc honorable mention all-conference honorees in the Gold/ Green this season. Wyatt Jacobson. Thomapple Kellogg: One of three first team all-conference honorees for lhe 'Trojans this winter, joining Trevor VanPolen and Michael Willshire on the awards list, Jacobson pul together a scoring average of 192 in conference action. A freshman, Jacobson was tenth in the con­ ference in scoring and had a high game of 268. Gage Richmond, Hastings: A sophomore, Richmond was 32nd at his team's Division 2 Regional 'Tournament this winter, rolling a high-game of 193 which matched lhe top Saxon total of lhe day. Richmond led the Saxons in scoring aver- Wyatt Jacobson age for the season, with a total of 178.61 and rolled a high game of 246. He placed 25th at the lnlerstate-8 Athletic Conference Singles Championship at the end of the year. Trevor VanPolen, 'Thomapple Kellogg; VanPolen has plans to bowl for Davenport University next season after closing out his Trojan career with an appearance in the Division 2 State Finals both with lhe Trojan team and as an individual. VanPolen was the top bowler in lhe OK Gold/Green Conference this winter, putting together a 741 three-game series at the confer­ ence tournament. He had a high game this winter of 279 while putting together a 220 scoring average in conference competitions. Michael Willshire, Iboniapple Kellogg: Willshire opened the state postseason by win­ ning jui individual regional championship in Division 2, outscoring his nearest competitor at regionals by more than 171 pins. He had a high game of 289 during his regional perfor­ mance. Gage Richmond A junior, he had an as erage score of 212 in OK Gold/Grecn Co frenee action to "in­ ter, helpmg tlle .j. |elim to a conference championship. jle f Lj fourth at lhe confer­ ence tournament J.? „6«7 three-game series. .^‘^AJhBttrry County Roys’ n Second learn John Hinkle u nks lhe Saxon senior finished off hi/v"Lvling career by puttogether a l^^ing average. He had a high game of j-re*.. • winterHinkle led tK.\lhl" al their Division 2 RegionarrounVlmSaX(> t-ing IM overall. Fthan Kriek^1’ ^pple Kellogg: Fourth m scorin' I K team this winter that won a championship and qualified for the 11State Finals. Kriekaanl PUl average score of Colton Hicswa 176 with a high single game of 257 this sea­ son. Drew Marquoit, Lakewood: One of the county’s top freshman bowlers. Marquoit put together a 163 scoring average on lhe season for die Vikings. He had a high game of 193 and a high twogame series of 379 in his first varsity cam­ paign. CJ Morgan, L-akewood: Morgan finished off his senior season at Lakewood by leading lhe team with a 177 scoring average. He rolled a high two-game series of 476, setting a school record. He le'dhk 3 ^ame this winter. " Dit.. ?2',‘n the sin-tt!cs competition at of the season Ptg">nal founiantent at thc cud Uke P aC"’8 32nd Over'’11 Sioneman 37“h\IItk7<XK1-: n Reeional s;„„i ' 11 1 s ,cam s Division 3 season where hS 'he end of the which Stoneman had a with a hinh-o-.m. c round score. ° ° 8— of 212 ‘"8 °" ll? f°r die .season, until that regional �Tho Hastings Banner — Thursday. Apr.) 9. 2020 — Page 9 Last Saxon state champ wins virtual title, too Bivtt Bremer •r » i Sp°rtS L’,n Bolo is n champion again. on FacetxxA week by former Saxon wres­ tler Jason Slaughter and members ot thc pro gram. 1 K..B°hnmokil v’33 ,ncr Slighter in the champonshtp match of the tournament, run through polling on 1-acclxvk "Alexis my oldest daughter, tagged me in tt and satd. hey dad you’re in this wrestling tournament. Bolo said. "I d.dn't know any’tbmg about it. She tagged me. 1 looked at and it showed a 32-man bracket, and that is how 1 found out about it.” Once Bolo found out about it. it brought back some of the competitive fire he felt wrestling for Hastings in thc late 1980s. Bolo won the 132-pound Class B individual stale championship as a junior in in 1988. He fol­ lowed that up with a runner-up state finish as a senior, closing his varsity wrestling career with 108 victories. “1 was a competitor. That is in my DNA.” Bolo said. “I’m like okay, wow. then I started following it. I was pumped. 1 remember my wife making a comment, 1 think she was talking to Lcxi on lhe phone and says. I don’t know if I’m going to be able to live with your dad if he loses or wins. It brought it out again. We’ll see where it goes you know. Each round got a little more intense, but that is just how it always was.” Bolo said he voted twice during the tourna­ ment, which lasted a week and honored lhe top eight “medalists in lhe end.” He said his daughters were on lop of the action, and his phone was blowing up as votes ticked on the poll during thc championship round. He didn't have to come from behind this time. Bolo said he fell in an 8 0 hole in that 1988 slate championship match against Fenton’s Rick Babbs at Lakeview High School. “It was pretty intense from the start,” Bolo remembers. “I was getting crushed form the very beginning. I was losing eight lo nothing. I was like, ‘this isn’t how this was supposed to go.’ I finally got my composure and I start­ ed to work my* way back. You see it in other sports where the momentum starts to swing, and it starts to build, .and build and build. And I was like I refuse lo lose. “It went down lo lhe last 30 seconds and I was still down 8-5. and it was ail just thc drive to g«t thc last four points. I got the last two with about four seconds to go. He was a greai Granby wrestler this kid was. and he tried his great Granby move. If you were good at lhe sport, you knew how to counter stuff. I just fell into it. I did exactly what I had practiced over and over and over on how to stop stuff like that. I ended up putting him on his back because of that.” Slaughter was dose io taking the title of “last Saxon state wrestling champion” in 2015. He was 49-0 heading into the 152pound Division 2 Individual State Finals at the Palace of Auburn Hills, and had what everyone in his corner thought was a pin of another undefeated senior. St. Joseph’s Connor Myers in the championship semifi­ nals. Myers managed to avoid the referee lapping lhe mat and went on lo a 14-8 win and eventually the stale championship. Slaughter closed out his senior season al 52-2 and is lied fur thc Hastings record with 177 varsity victories. He holds Saxon wres­ tling records for most season takedowns (164). most career takedowns (431), most wins in a scason(54). most falls in a season (41) and most career falls (120). He was a three-time state medalist, placing eighth as a sophomore and fifth as a junior. Current Saxon senior Gabe Trick, a state medalist this year, placed third in lhe voting ahead of Matt Watson in fourth. Billy Biair fifth. Stevie Case sixth. Gage Pederson sev­ enth and current Saxon head coach Darrell Slaughter (Jason’s father) eighth. Jason got the virtual tournament up and running after being inspired by a similar con­ test run by his Western Colorado University wrestling program. Jason recently finished up his fifth and final season wrestling with thc Mountaineers, and is in Colorado working on finishing up his Master’s Degree in educator effectiveness, while planning with his fiance Erin Goggins (a fellow 2015 Hastings gradu­ ate) how' to have a wedding in the time of COVID-19. While the high wrestling season was one of lhe few winter sports seasons to make it to completion in Michigan, Slaughter’s Western Colorado teammates who qualified for the NCAA Division II National Championship in South Dakota made the trip to Sioux Falls but were unable to compete as activities were suspended. “1 just started with a 32-man bracket. I wanted to start with a bigger one so we could get a lot of people in there,” Jason said. “We really just wanted lo have some fun with it I guess the only qualification for the bracket was being a state placer al Hastings. There were a couple still that were placers that got left off. Really, it shows there have been a lot of good w restlers at Hastings.” Jason enjoyed the comments and slats for­ mer wrestlers, their families and Saxon wres­ tling fans were able; (q.share’ throughout the process, and thought it was cool lo finish second while also being pleased that he wasn’t lhe ultimate champion being that he was the one organizing thc whole thing in the first place. “It is g<xxl lo get that recognition, especial­ ly with such a tough group of guys. There are probably four or five state champs in Hastings history.” Jason said. “Just to gel the recogni­ tion of number two. I guess that was pretty cool.” Jason Slaughter looks to the stands after a victory at the 2015 Division 2 Individual Stale Finals at the Palace of Auburn Hills. Now working on his master’s degree at Western Colorado University, Slaughter organized an online competition to find the top wrestlers from Hastings’ past and took the runner-up spot in the competition. (File photo) Being that he is done with his collegiate w restling days now, Jason hopes to have some coaching in his future. Bolo said he likes to offer advice to the Saxon wrestlers when he can, and would love to gel into lhe wrestling room more often even though actually getting out on the mat and sparring isn’t the best idea anymore. Despite the fun virtual victory, Bolo said he still had to get up Thursday, put on his boots and go to work. He said the success of the Saxon wrestling program starts with lhe men in charge. “It comes down to great coaching,” Bolo said. “My coaches, I stirted with Dave Furrow and Bill Rodgers and Dennis Redman and Larry' Melendy. They knew- how to coach in a very intense way. and they got lhe best out of you - and that was lhe same with all your teammates. Those were my coaches, and those coaches do change over time. You’ve had Mike Goggins and Darrell Slaughter now. “i’ll go back lo one more name in middle school with Tom Brighton. He started you out with the fundamentals. It was thc same couple words every time, do this and do this and you’ll be successful every time, a dou- MHSAA announces end of 2019-20 high school sports seasons Like an umpire throwing up his hands as a sprinkle of rain lums to a downpour, the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) has canceled lhe remainder of the 2019-20 Winter and Spring sports seasons, in compliance with the 1 hursday (April 2) "stale of disaster” directive by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer closing school buildings and moving education online for the remain­ der of the school year to help decrease the spread of die COVID-19 coronavirus. This will be the first school year to not see MHSAA Finals played in multiple sports since 1942-43. when World War II led to lhe elimination of Finals in most sports. The MHSAA on March 12 suspended its girls and boys basketball, girls gymnastics, boys ice hockey and boys .swimming & diving tournaments amid COVID-19 concerns. All activity in all sports was halted March 13. Spring sports to that point had begun practice, but not competition. "We are heartbroken to not be able to pro- vide these opportunities for Michigan’s stu­ dent-athletes, and especially seniors. We con­ tinue to hear from dozens asking us lo hold out hope. But safety always must come first, and Governor Whitmer is making courageous decisions to safeguard the people of our state." MHSAA Executive Director Mark L’yl said. “We understand as much as anyone how much school sports mean to athletes and their communities. We had ideas and hopes for finishing Winter and Spring and helping bring some ,son of normalcy after this long break. But this is the correct decision, and we will play our part in bringing schools and commu­ nities together again when the time is right. o _____ ‘Tor now, we cannot state strongly enough that all students, staffs and others follow the guidelines established to slow the spread of this virus - we all must do our part.” ' The MHSAA’s Representative Council approved during its Winter Meeting on March 27 a scries of concepts for completing the Winter tournaments and an abbreviated Spring season, contingent on the lifting of a state­ wide quarantine. The closure of school build­ ings into June made those possibilities void. The Lakewood varsity boys’ basketball team was the only area team still competing in the winter state tournaments, awaiting the chance to play a Divi*i°n 2 District Final against Eaton Rapids. The MHSAA’s Executive Committee, com­ prised of officers of larger Council, affirmed the decision last Friday to cancel the remainder of this school year’s activities. Because lhe five Winter sports were not able to conclude with Finals, no champions will be awarded in th^f sP°ns for 2019-20. However, championships won at earlier rounds of those tournaments (District or Regional) will continue to stand. The MHSAA will incoming weeks provide guidelines and oilier information pertinent to this unusual offseason 3s attention is turned to Preparing for Fall 2020. Tom Bolo is ready for the 1987-88 varsity wrestling season at Hastings High School. Bolo won last weeks Hastings Past Wrestlers Tourney, an online competition with voters determining the top wrestler in Saxon history. Bolo is the last Saxon wrestler to win an individual state championship, which he did as a junior in 1988. (Photo supplied) ble-leggcd takedown to a half, and I never forgot that from when 1 was a seventh grader. I’m not saying it always worked, but that is what he drilled into your head - drilled, drilled, drilled, drilled and that is where it all started. Those five names 1 mentioned, those were my coaches and I owe them a ton of credit even though 1 didn’t like them every day." NEWSPAPERS We are grateful for those who have our back in this important time. The list is long, but we want to thank our first responders and front-line workers. Especially in critical times, newspapers have your back. COVID-19 is a national story that is impacting you at home and at work. Your local newspaper is keeping you informed with current events in your neighborhood and is bringing communities together in these challenging times. From the actions your local government is taking, to lists of local stores that are delivering and tips on what to do while you're at home, your local newspaper is committed to bringing you the news you nee , when you need it. WE ARE IN THIS MICHAEL KINNEY PLUMBING Licensed Master Plumber ~*censed Journeyman Plunibcr I ■\Vl\nM-rUCl'on’ remodel. repair. BRADI ORD WHITE WATER Same Day Installation ^RS TOGETHER. Support your local newspaper. Subscribe in print or online. Office (269) 948-2248 ^Mobile (269) 838-5112 I H ?™ B AmericasW Call to place your Hastings Banner ad 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 a Newspapers .. .............. • .. , - ’ ", um aNNER 1351 N. M-43 Hwy, Hastings 269-945-9554 owe AnwnaaifWw»P<»«’«',-> " J *• ' os trio T . .... twiw Iwui cwwtwMw e-on I �Page 10 — Thursday, Apnl 9 2020 — The HasVnflS Banner COVID-19: A timeline Bridge Magazine It started as a blip of a New Year’s live news item on the other side of lhe world. Nou, lite novel coronavirus pandemic is the defining crisis in most of our lifetimes. A look back at how the COVID-19 w inter morphed into Michigan’s crudest April. Dec. 31. 2019: Officials in Wuhan, China confirm doctors arc treating dozens of cases involving pneumonia-like symptoms. Jan. 7: Chinese authorities identify a new' type of the coronavirus connected to lhe ill­ ness. Jan. 9; Thc first death is reported in Wuhan. Media reports say there is no evidence the virus can be spread from person to person. Jan. 20: The World Health Organization announces confirmed cases in South Korea. Thailand and Japan. WHO reports 278 con­ firmed cases in China and six deaths in Wuhan. Jan. 21: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announces the first U.S. case, in Washington state. Jan. 24: The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services refers three cases from Washtenaw and Macomb counties to the CDC for testing. A few days later, they arc found not to involve the coronavirus. Jan. 30: WHO declares a global health emergency and thc U.S. State Department warns travelers to avoid China. Jan. 31: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declares a public health emergency. In one month, cases grow to near­ ly lOjDOOO with 213 deaths worldwide. ‘ Feb. 3: Michigan activates a Community Health Emergency Coordination Center to prepare for a possible outbreak. Feb. 28: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer activates the State Emergency Operations Center to coordinate with local, state and federal agen­ cies and other stakeholders. Feb. 29: The first U5. death is reported in Kirkland. Washington. There are cases report­ ed in at least 59 countries. March 3: Whitmer creates four task forces to coordinate lhe state’s response and assess the impact coronavirus may have on stale operations, health care, schools and workplac­ es. The U.S. removes federal restrictions on testing in lhe nation. March 10: Michigan’s first two cases of COVJD-19 are confirmed in patients from Wayne and Oakland counties. Whitmer declares a state of emergency in Michigan. It is the first of 32 executive orders she will enact in a span of 24 days. March II: Michigan State University sus­ pends classroom instruction and international travel. The University of Michigan, Wayne State University and other state universities do thc same in rapid succession. Thc Detroit Pistons stand down as the NBA suspends its season. They arc soon joined by the Red Wings, Tigers and collegiate athletes. March 12: WHO describes thc outbreak as a pandemic. Seven school districts in Washtenaw County become thc first in thc state to announce they arc closing schools and moving to online learning. The stale reports 10 new cases of COVID-19, bringing lhe total to 12. March 13: President Trump declares a national emergency. By executive order, Whitmer closes Michigan schools and prohib­ its gatherings of more than 250 people until April 5. In a separate order, Whitmer restricts access lo healthcare facilities, nursing homes and juvenile justice facilities. Confirmed cases in Michigan: 25. March 14: Confirmed cases in Michigan: 33. March 15: Whitmer imposes restrictions to stop price gouging on products such as face masks, hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies. Confirmed cases in Michigan: 53. March 16: Whitmer closes restaurants, bars, coffee shops, theaters, performance ven­ ues, libraries, museums, fitness centers, sports facilities, casinos and other gathering places. The state expands eligibility for unemploy­ ment benefits lo people who stop working to quarantine themselves or care for a family member. The state tightens restrictions on gatherings to no more than 50 people. Whitmer suspends oilier restrictions to help ease the delivery of medical supplies and equipment. Henry Ford and Beaumont health systems introduce the state’s first same-day COVID-19 tests. Confirmed cases in Michigan: 53. March 17: The hospitality industry braces for an uncertain future and laid-ofT work­ ers are left reeling. By executive order. Whitmer gives MDHHS and thc state Department of Licensing and Regulatory' Affairs authority to streamline the expansion of healthcare facilities’ capacity. Confirmed cases in Michi.,, March la. Mid’iPan rclK,rtS ltS firM COVlD-lVdcJ ,. । and Hal Chrysler close all lheir n s „tllnts. idling 150,000 workers across ih. XnW includin8 more than 60.000 jn , (,arl. Whitmer extends deadlines to J^.-jents more lime to take steps necessary Pn,Pcrt* ^clo­ sures, Whitmer suspend? °Pen McctinBs Ac* rules requiring in Jgreon meetings and hear­ ings of government end*5 and I*™’15 Pro­ ceedings to be conducted online. Whitmer cases rules to enable the expansion of child­ care capacity’ in Confirmed cases in Michigan: 80. * March 19: A sludv from the University of Michigan Department of Economics projects the pandemic win trirccra recession and cost Michigan between 155JOOO and 400XXX) jobs in the first three quarters Confinned cases in Michigan- 324 March 20: The stale directs hospi­ tals, outpatient health can: facilities, and den­ tal facilities to postpone non-essential medical procedures to limit the sp^ad of lhc virus and free up healthcare rcsou^5' The governor issues an executive order prohibiting evic­ tions except in extreme circumstances. Oakland County closes mall* a”d playground equipment. Confirmed cases in Michigan: 549. March 21: Confirmed cases in Michigan: 786. March 22: Confirmed cases in Michigan: 1,035. March 23: Whitmer issues a stay-at-home order for Michigan residents except for those who work in essential industries or are obtain­ ing critical supplies such as food and gas. The order also prohibits gatherings beyond lhe people living in a single household, with cer­ tain exceptions. Michigan hospitals begin to fill with coronavirus patients amid equipment shortages. Confirmed cases in Michigan: 1,328. March 24: Confirmed cases in Michigan: 1,791. March 25: Detroit begins to emerge as the epicenter of COVID-19 in Michigan. Its per capita infection rate is third among U.S. cit­ ies, exceeded only by New York and New Orleans. Whitmer extends county canvass deadlines for the March 10 presidential pri­ mary election. Rules arc eased to enable slate administrative business to be conducted Sharp uptick in overall cases statewide this week ‘ There arc signs Michigan may avoid lhe skyrocketing caseloads of Italy and New York. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan expressed optimism for the first time in days Tuesday when lhe number of new cases in the city fell for lhe second consecutive day. Detroit is a national hotspot for the virus, with more than 5,500 cases and at least 222 deaths. “This is the first glimmer of light we have seen in the data since this pandemic started.’’ Duggan said. ST. ROSE OF LIMA PARISH 805 South Jefferson, Hastings, MI . Wishes Everyone a Blessed Easter Qme Lord lesus Christ Is Bissn.1 Alleluia! For those who wish to participate in the Liturgies of the Easter Triduum, please look for live-streaming information atwww.diokzQo.org/cQronavinjs or the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN) Please know that we are with you in spirit and that you are in our prayers. If you have questions, prayer requests, or would like more information, including information about how to pray and to celebrate Easter in your home, please "The storm is not ejer. But for lhe first time, we can see we caebeat this. ?\nd we can beat it in w eeks, nur ninths.” Even so, state data indicate the virus is gaining strength in less-populated areas out­ side of southeast Michigan, including Genesee County where cases hit 638 and deaths 32, and in St. Clair, Clinton and Hillsdale coun­ ties. Statewide, confirmed cases rose nearly 1,750 to 18.970 as of 10 a.m. Wednesday, while the 118 reported deaths were the most in a single day of the pandemic for Michigan. Overall, 959 have died statewide. Metro Detroit accounts for 80 percent of Michigan’s cases and deaths, and if cases pla­ teau. lhe state could hit its peak later this week, matching a model created by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington. Slate officials, as well as the Trump admin­ istration, have used this model to estimate trends. Hiat model based its predictions on Michigan’s demography, actual deaths and steps to slow’ the spread of lhe virus, including stay-at-home order by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on March 24. Even if the state hits its peak on April 10, how ever, the University of Washington model estimates Michigan deaths could hit 3,000 before the end of May. “We arc still in the early upslope of what is going to hit Michigan incredibly hard,’’ Whitmer said. “Hiis novel virus has no cure and it has no vaccine, it is aggressively passed from person to person and no one knows how their body is going to react to it.” 1 he virus has hit other places even harder, including New York and Italy, and it contin­ ues to ravage parts of Europe and grow across the globe. Compared t0 the growth rates of New York. Italy and France Michigan is trending well below New York but between Italy (17,127 deaths) and France (10 328)Thai’s not t0 s Michigan deaths will approach either nation both which havc six ‘‘^{JJWttsident;. f n . L«kc Michigan much of Europe is on stay-at-home” Ordcrs and Duggan attributes those efforts to “bending lhe curve.” We are at Q linjc wberv I think we may be bending the cUrvc bul we are at a very dan­ gerous time if w , ’ tjCk with what we arc d0‘"U"D«gSailsaidn . He warned aga^mplricency and wor­ ried that winner weather could halt progress Md cases could 2 ,1 “We have had days ahead of us. We arc going lo, L of our neighbors in lhe coming d4,. „ m hUid. “Il’s going to gel worse befo^ £ better.” Call 289-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads Provided by Bridge Magazine remotely and electronically. Another order enables pharmacies to expand their capacity and fill prescriptions for 60 days of medica­ tion. Confirmed cases in Michigan: 2,294. March 26: The United States becomes the country’ with lhe most confirmed COVID-19 cases. Confirmed cases in Michigan: 2.856. March 27: Whitmer extends deadline for filing state and local income tax returns by 90 days. Another order calls for voting in the May 5 election, lo thc greatest degree possi­ ble, to be conducted by absentee ballot or for ballot questions to be delayed until Aug. 4. Confirmed cases in Michigan: 3,657. March 28: Whitmer orders water utilities to restore service to any residents who was dis­ connected for non-payment. More than 300JXX) Michigan residents filed unemploy­ ment insurance claims from March 22-28 — 65 times more that the same week in 2019. Roughly 1 in 10 Michigan workers —• a total of 439,092 —filed for jobless benefits in the previous two weeks. Confirmed cases in Michigan: 4,650. March 29: A new’ executive order from the governor strives lo reduce risk among prison populations with a series of protocols includ­ ing restricting visits, minimizing crowding, stringent cleaning and screening everyone who enters or leaves a facility. Public health rules arc cased to provide leeway in medical practices, supervision of health care profes­ sionals and delegation of their work. Confirmed cases in Michigan: 5,486. March 30: The state enacts temporary restrictions on non-essential veterinary ser­ vices. COVID-19 created an unexpected oversupply of higher volatility winter-blend gasoline, which normally cannot be sold after April 1. The governor extends the deadline. Confirmed cases in Michigan: 6,498. April 1: Whitmer expands lhe state emer­ gency and disaster declaration and asks the Michigan’s Legislature to extend by 70 days her authority to take emergency actions. Following a surge in cases, Michigan surpass­ es California and now ranks third in the United States with 9,334 cases and 337 deaths, behind only New York and New Jersey. Detroit continues to be hit hard with 2.472 cases and 83 deaths. April 2: Whitmer closes public school classrooms for lhe remainder of the 2019­ 2020 school year. The number of confirmed cases globally surpasses 1 million and the death toll reaches 50,000. In Michigan, there are 10,791 confirmed cases and 417 deaths. April 3: The CDC recommends all Americans wear cloth face masks in public settings where social distancing measures are difficult to maintain such as grocery stores and pharmacies. Michigan begins a crack­ down on violators of the state’s shelter in place order, threatening fines of up lo SI ,000. Confirmed cases in Michigan: 12,744 and 479 deaths. April 4: U.S. Vice President Mike Pence announces a federal shipment of 300 ventila­ tors. after 400 earlier in the week, to Michigan. The stale has some 1,700 total ventilators but health officials project needing as many as lOXXJO as cases spike. Confirmed cases in Michigan: 14,225 cases and 540 deaths. April 6: Confirmed cases in Michigan: 17221 and 727 deaths. Coronavirus in Michigan Michigan health officials are testing residents daily and announcing results. This map shows home residence of those who’ve tested positive for the virus; their current locations aren't known. Total cases: 18,970* Deaths: 959 £■ No cases @ lease © 2 to 49 cases 50 to 99 cases ® 100 to 999 cases <5 1,000 or more cases *As of 10 ajh. April 8 Source: Michigan Department of Health & Human Services Research used by Michigan public health officials and the White House suggests the state’s daily death count will peak later this week. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-04-16.pdf a8c90f163412f292d05ba8d43e0f7512 PDF Text Text Hastings ordinance to regulate wells • There’s Jnore than one virus i» the county See Story on Page 2 See EtliW'1- Oli Page 4 Cheerleaders add to conference, state honors See Story on Page 11 III I -rmj I.-TIJI- .irj 1070490102590502808249058195427 VOLUME 167, No. 16 ~~~~~ Thursday.MIS^ZO PRICE 75$ County postpones decision on $25 million jail bond Rebecca Pierce Editor Barn County commissioners met electron­ ically Tuesday and agreed to postpone a deci­ sion on a proposed $25 million bond request for a new jail until their next meeting in two or three weeks. ' Ifieir consensus was that now would not be a good time for such a request, considering efforts to prevent spread of the novel corona­ virus and the subsequent impact on the local economy. In a historic first, commissioners conducted their business remotely via Zoom, which allowed video and audio participation for commissioners and citizens alike. All .seven commissioners participated in the meeting, but not without some difficulties. Commissioner Dan Parker had problems join­ ing the session and ended up w ilh only audio connectivity. Commissioner Vivian Conner connected via video but her audio connection was patchy. The majority of the meeting was spent dis­ cussing the jail. “The county has identified through the construct a new county jail and sheriff depart­ County’s Facilities Master Plan that it is nec­ ment facility,” the proposed resolution reads, essary to replace the existing facility and “to provide enhanced security and safety measures and systems; additional needed capacity; improved and updated HVAC and mechanical systems, improved space for inmate processing; accommodations for off ic­ es and space for information technology sys­ tems; and costs for design, engineering. financing, equipping and furnishing the facil­ ity” As part of the ballot language, commission­ ers are hoping to pitch to voters three possible alternatives to achieve these aims: • One idea, which has been recommended as most feasible by hired facilitator TowerPinkstcr. would be to demolish the existing facility at 1212 W. State St. and con­ struct a new building on that county-owned property where the jail and sheriff’s depart­ ment are located. • A second possibility would be to acquire properly for a new facility; commissioners have declined to specifically identify possible new sites out of concent that their discussion would drive up the cost of the property. • A third alternative would be to acquire new property with an existing building and renovate it for use by the sheriff department for offices and constructing a new jail on that property as part of the project. Die pre-bid estimated costs for each of the project options is $25 million, financed through the sale of general obligation unlimit­ ed tax bonds, from 2021 through 2046. Approval of the question would result in a 0.2157 mill levy (which would be $0.2157 per $1,000 of taxable value) to pay debt service on the bonds in the first year of the levy. The levy would average 0.5018 for debt service in subsequent years until the bonds would be retired. Die estimate of cost to property owners with a taxable value of $50,000 would be $10.79 in the first year and. on average. $25.10 per year thereafter. Some commissioners remained hopeful that this question could still be pitched to county voters in the Aug. 4 primary election. The deadline for ballot language is May 12. The next board meeting will occur at 9 aan. on either April 28 or May 5, so there would be time to finalize the ballot language. After listening to commissioners and Sheriff Dar Leaf express the view that, given the poor economy, the timing is not good to ask voters for more money. Chairwoman Heather Wing expressed strong support for proceeding. See POSTPONES, page 2 COVID-19 claims first victim in Barry County State health officials say numbers statewide may, be slowing Rebecca Pierce . Editor COVID-19 claimed its first victim in Barry County. A 59-yeur old woman died Sunday. Barry-Eaton District Health Department officials said. Meanwhile, in Eaton County Sunday, the death of a 79-year-old man was attributed to the novel coronavirus, bringing the number of COVID 19 deaths in that county to five. BEDHD .-tafl declined to release any fur­ ther information about the deaths. “We are saddened by yet another loss due to COVID-19. and extend our deepest con­ dolences to the grieving family and friends.” health officer Colette Scrimger said. ‘We encourage every one to stay steadfast in our efforts to fight the outbreak." Scrimger urged. “This means taking action to follow social-distancing requirements, following the executive orders, not leaving your home unless absolutely necessary, and washing your hands frequently.” As of Wednesday afternoon, 96 cases had Ixxn confirmed in the two-county district: 78 in Eaton County, and 18 in Barry’ County. Recovered cases total 53 in the district, w ith four of those in Barry’ County: and 92 cases are being monitored or under quaran­ tine in the district, with 10 of those in Barry Counts . - . I Michigan's confirmed coronavirus cases rose by 1,058 infected and 153 deaths, according to data reported by the state Wednesday morning. In another development this week, 13 new or expanded CO VID-19 drive-through test­ ing sites and a new lab will speed up test results under a plan announced by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. The efforts will increase Michigan’s daily COVID-19 testing capacity by about 40 per­ cent when fully operational. They include See VICTIM, page 11 Michigan’s COVID-19 cases may fee nearing plateau COVID-19 cases is one factor that will inform There’s no public estimate on when the decision on reopening the state’s econo­ state could ease restrictions. Whitmer’s Talks underway her my. Michigan also needs to ramp up testing recently extended stay-at-home order, which and hospitals must have the resources to han­ orders non-essential businesses to remain to lift lockdown dle remaining cases, she said. closed, is currently slated to remain through State officials are developing a plan to safe­ Bridge Magazine Coronavirus cases in Michigan appear to be ly ease stay-home restrictions that have been plateauing tuid talks are underway to eventu­ in place since March 24. Whitmer said, add­ ally lift the lockdown and reopen the slate. ing the plan will likely be rolled out in phases. “We need to get this right,” she said. "It’s Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said Monday. That’s welcome news for a state hammered going to be a data-driven approach based on by the pandemic, especially in southeastern facts, based on science, based on recommen­ Michigan, which is fourth in the nation with dations from experts, epidemiologists and 28.059 cases. Overall. 1.921 have died state­ economists.” Easing up too soon could bring a second wide from the virus as of Monday. Since April 3. when the state reported near­ wave of cases and deaths, said Dr. Joneigh ly 2.(XX) new cases, new- positive cases have Khaldun, the state’s chief medical executive. During the 1918 flu pandemic, cities that gradually declined. “These numbers give us reason to have lifted restrictions too early ultimately had some cautious optimism that the rate of slower economic and public health recover­ increase is appearing to slow down,” Whitmer ies, she said. “Easing up on social distancing measures said during a news conference on Monday. "I say cautiously optimistic because ... this too soon will be devastating.” Khaldun said. is a snapshot and we need a lot more data to “A lol more people will die and our hospital systems will get overwhelmed.” determine if this is a trend.” And while there are “early signs of a pla­ Michigan's lockdown has closed business­ es statewide and led more than 1 million teau in the rate of growth,” Khaldun said, people — a quarter of the state’s workforce there arc still "many new cases and deaths ever}- day” and an increase in case rates in - to file for unemployment. Whitmer said sustaining the plateau of areas including Genesee County. the end of April. People who are temporarily out of work due to the closures are increasingly turning to the state for help, said Jeff Donofrio, director of the Department of I-abor and Economic Opportunity. Michigan has the highest number of unem­ ployment claims in the Great Lakes region and the third-highest number in the country', behind only California and Pennsylvania. The influx has overloaded the stale’s unem­ ployment filing system, crashing the website multiple times, including on Monday morn­ ing. "We are committed to making sure that every eligible Michigander who needs unem­ ployment insurance benefits will gel them.” Donofrio said, adding the state has increased staffing and invested in server capacity to try to keep up with demand. Whitmer acknowledged widespread frus­ tration with the state lockdown and restric­ tions on gardening, boating anj olhcr activi­ ties, but assured residents the enj of (|lese restrictions is “on the horizon.” Special delivery Delton Kellogg first grade teacher Jodi Skinner delivers a bag of technological hardware and learning items to a vehicle outside Delton Kellogg Elementary School Tuesday morning during the first of two technology pick-up days hosted by the school district. For more, see story inside. (Photo by Brett Bremer) See story on page 10, For police, every case involves COVID-19 Taylor Owens Staff Writer While many people arc working from home 9r out o| a job during the governor’s stay-albomc order, first responders must continue to their jobs, despite risks. ’Ils very dangerous for any first respondHastings City Police Chief Jeff Pratt said. ‘ We don’t know what we’re getting into when We respond to any complaint.” Frratt has told his officers to treat everyone £ ,f they are COVID-19 positive, as it is the Way for them to stay safe. Pratt said his officers are likely encounter­ ing COVID-19 patients on a daily basis, whether they know it or not. In one case, two officers responded to a well-being check, and the person was taken to a hospital. Pratt later received a call that the person had tested positive for COVID-19. In another instance, officers initiated a traf­ fic stop on a vehicle that had gone through a restaurant drive-through. The driver then pro­ duced paperwork showing they had tested positive. ‘That’s exactly how this is going to spread,” Pratt said. “Il’s imPonanl that people who test positive 9uarantinc.” Some people have claimed l0 |lave coVlD19 when they wen: arrest^ and one spit at officers when ne said h individuals have tested ne$itive, Pratt said "I can lull you.fa”" "^Perspective, I think 11,111 s horrific." Ban? "Unty District Court Judge Michael ScluPP« told The Hastings Banner. The judge said hesentence someone signtficantly." it brought before him on charges aft<* at an officer and claiming they had C0V1D-19. “There’s no tolerance for something like that,” Judge Schipper said. The court is still actively processing crimi­ nal cases - that hasn’t stopped, he said. We are not going to give people who are violent or a danger to the community through assaul­ tive behavior or drunken driving a pass and put everyone else at risk. “And those who claim to have COVID or spit or try to create a hazard to law enforce­ ment are potentially looking at sigm Kant additional charges.” Since the pandemic began. Pratt said, he has had to quarantine a total of four officers, all of whom are back to work. The department has a total of 14 officers, which includes the chief and assistant chief. They follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, although Pratt said these guidelines have been fluid and change on a daily basis. When the pandemic started, the CDC directed people to use N95 surgical face See POLICE CASES, page 10 �Page 2— Thursday, April 16, 2020 —The Hastings Banner .____ POSTPONES, continued from page1' .« _ regulations of wells Emergency ordinance approved for reg >id_ind> can hear you. but it sounds like you're growl­ “I know it's a financial burden to do this, said Wing. ubosc family operates a dairy farm. “Noone's industry has been aflectea more (han mine. I’m losing money. 1 get the financial impact it’s going to make for every citizen in this community.” . “[But] if we delay, in that lime, our jail is likely to fail. That roof, if we have to replace it, it’ll cost a million dollars.’ ’ pointing out that the roof on the budding could not be replaced with the inmates an sheriff's office staff inside the building, Its going to cost way more than a million di if we have to relocate staff and prisoner. "Delaying it indefinitely is definitely the question.” , ... She compared holding off on the jail PfeJ ect to a family Hying to decide when kids. "If you wait until you cart afford them, you’ll never have kids, she said. responsibility to make sure that ’ If we stop now, and we wait for a better time, there’s not going to be a better time. •The longer we wail, the more it s. got g cost us. I can’t sec putting a ,nul^^ roof on a building that we re goingtodestroy. Fellow commissioners did not disagree, bu several expressed reluctance to act on the Commissioner Ben Geiger said Wing made „"L points. “There is never a good tX m^k^or more money.” he agreed, •^se are unprecedented times. People have a im of angst and insecurity about the econom I think you could still win in August. I Sil* voters would still be receptive. But are things going to change for the worse with the Smy? I hope not. My gut is that th.ngs will be better by November, by August. “But I’m open to pushing this just because of uncertainties there - but not until next year. If wc do postpone, postpone within 2020. Commissioner Howard Gibson was brief: “At this lime, I could not agree to an August millage. I think a later dale would be better.” Geiger, noting the commissioners’ consen­ sus with regard to a postponement, asked if they should wait to decide. Jackson suggested they postpone a vote until July, but Wing said she hesitates to delay at all. If the request is pushed to next year assuming it's successful - work on the jail wouldn’t commence for two years, Wing pointed out. Geiger also echoed Wing’s prediction that m “Basically, I’m getting a lot of feedback the jail was going to require major repairs in from a lot of people.” Commissioner Dan the short term. “The jail is going to fail: it’s just a matter of Parker said. “Fortunately, it starts out with I really want to see a new jail, but this is not the when,” he said. “This is a big decision.” Geiger said, sug­ time to do it.’ 1 think people arc looking for a little more opening of the economy before gesting that everyone seek out their constitu­ ents and talk with them, “then come back in a they feel more comfortable doing this. “A lot of people suggested waiting until couple of weeks to see where we’re al.” Parker expressed concern that, given the November. Some said next year. It was a com­ current climate with regard to the pandemic, bination of quite a few different things. For November, we’d have to have all this [ballot “if people arc not going to be concentrating on what we’re telling them, if we do that for language] in by Aug. 11th.” Parker said he doesn’t favor waiting until the August vote, we may jeopardize that vote next year to go to voters because it would cost completely. Then we may be in worse shape. the taxpayers $40jD00-plus for a special elec­ That, to me, is not something I would like to tion. At this point, whatever momentum they take a chance on." Commissioner Jon Smelker, who also was had generated for a new jail was “stopped in its tracks the lasl couple of months. My rec­ having problems with his audio connection, said he would favor postponing the request ommendation is to wait until November.” until November. “November makes the most sense.” “Al least postpone it until we can talk about Commissioner Dave Jackson agreed that people he has spoken with are concerned it,” Smelker said. “I don’t think we should about putting a millage question on the August vote to go ahead with it at this lime." “I don’t think we’re in a position to decide ballot. His first thought, Jackson said, was that, if today," Geiger agreed, making a motion to they kept the question on the August ballot, postpone the pending proposal to the next they could delay when it actually appears on board of commissioners meeting either April the tax bill. “Give people two years of eco­ 28 or May 5.” Smelker supported the motion, and the nomic recovery before paying for a jail.” A couple of the commissioners expressed curi­ action was approved by voice vole. "I know we’ve been waiting a long time for osity about this approach, but learned that delaying the bonds could hamstring project this." Sheriff Leaf said through an audio con­ nection. “It just seems like a stroke of bad funding flexibility later on. TowerPinkster senior project manager Eric luck." During public comment, Joel Ibbotson of Hackman participated in Tuesday’s discus­ sion. reviewing details about timing when Rutland Charter Township expressed his con­ bids could be released and construction could cern about putting the proposal on the ballot. begin, depending on when the request is The request for $25 million would actually approved. “exceed $42 million after bonds, premiums, “As 1 look at economic hardship all around, payoffs and so forth,” he said. it’s tough for me to say ‘Let’s put this on the “We’re in a crisis right now," he said, not­ ballot,”’ Jackson said. “I hate to lose the ing that many people are likely to lose their momentum and awareness we’ve created. ... jobs and predicting that half of the small busi­ However. I think we need to really take a nesses in Barry County could fold. pause on this and see. Maybe we talk about The county needs an updated jail facility, this in July and sec where the state of the Ibbotson said, “however, now is not the time union is on this.” to ask taxpayers for money that wc do not Jackson said the economic expectation for have." Michigan is that the second and third quarters In other public comment during the meet­ of this year “are going to be very bad, espe­ ing: cially with how we’re handling things in • Barry County Community Mental Health Lansing.” And, even if they waited until (he Executive Director Richard Thiemkey offered election in November.’Tm not sure November his thanks to county commissioners, county is going to be much different. employees, emergency medical services per­ "That kind of takes us into putting a pause sonnel, firefighters and police. “CMH is on the entire millage election,” he said. “But open,” he said. “We’re doing a lot of tele­ I’m open for discussion.” health. We’ve actually seen a decrease in pre­ Commissioner Vivian Conner said two screens for hospitalization - maybe that’s due individuals contacted her and (old her they to increased outreach. would like to see the commissioners wail. “We did institute a wannline, a support for One recommended placing the request on the front-line responders where they can jusl call November ballot, while the other wasn’t so and get some support.” definitive, she said. “I think everybody was See story about peer-run warmline on Page hoping for people to go back to work the end 2 of this week’s Hastings Banner. of this month, or the first of May. • Mark VonSeigneur of Barry Township “Would we have a meeting when we could said, "The U.S. Postal Service is under tre­ talk again when we’re all together?” she mendous threat right at the moment. I can’t asked. imagine living in Barry County without the Conner, who struggled with bad audio post office. We need to think about that as reception during the entire meeting, said. “I well." The regular meeting Monday WiLS ‘‘K’mZe^motely agenda. Tw0 ti^^ltive P<* 'e heanngS' which experien^,. ’' ,ckof puhirc comment, were conducted during the 27-minute meetThe public -.guiding the approval of an ordinance fn ,he regulation ot wells in the city of Hlsli r' „ declared tin emergen­ cy ordinance, lakjn effect immediately, once approved. ® Council member Brenda McNabb-Stange questioned why (hc ordinance was being declared an cmcrgCneV "It’s to rcgulate the number of tunes that people arc going jnto thc aquifer to protect the city waler syMe city manager Jerry Czarnecki said. ’ ie of these places arc industrial sites nre actually businesses, and if they were fn pul a well in. there would be concern of ^-contamination. So. it’s jusl a way of bein„ abje to manage the wells within the city ^at wC can Prolcct the water system." After the meetin{, Czarnecki said another reason for the urgvn’.y was to get everything in line with the septic tanks and sewer system requirements. The ordinance already has reg­ ulations set for the sewcr system that arc in line with the state; however, the municipali­ ties arc to detennine the regulations and requirements for wc]is and connections to the city’s water system. "I’he ordinance basically mirrors lhe sewer system ordinance.” he said. McNabb-Stange also asked how deep lhe city’s wells are. ” Mayor David Tossava speculated that the wells are around 300 feet deep. “1 was just wondering how many people really drill that far down that they’re hitting the same aquifer that the city is in,” McNabbStange said. “I thought wc were a lot deeper." "We arc in a real deep aquifer." Tossava said. "The issue ue have, what brought this up, was the PFAS, like down at Viking right now. We don’t want someone going out and drilling a well when they can access the city water. So. this is why w e come up with this city ordinance to kind of get people to think about not going that way. Basically, if you’re within 200 feel of the city utility, you have to hook to it." Although lhe perfluoroalkyl and poly fluo­ roalkyl substances,or PFAS. that were delect­ ed at Viking Corp, property in late 2018 and early 2019 were not found in a drinking water source, this ordinaire is intended to help fur­ ther prevent croo-contaminntion between manufacturing plans and the city water sys­ tem. Tossava explained that if manufacturing plants were to &U a well, they have a cross-connection that acts as a back­ flow preventer. However. if the industrial water was to back-feed into the city water, it would cause cross-contamination. “That’s why we are looking at not allowing anybody to drill w ells if there is w ater avail­ able," he said. That being said, if a building is more than 200 feet from a water main, drilling for a new well is allowed. c Council members Don Bowers, Jun cary, Al Jarvis and Bill Redman all had regarding how the ordinance would a c different properties around the city“There are several [properties] here in tow that have just a well. There are several mat have both a well and septic [within] limits on paved streets,” Bowers said. » ,a are wc going to do about that?” “Those [people) will lx- allowed to keep their wells until it reaches a point that they have to drill a new one,” Czarnecki said. “Then it’s dependent on how far they are from the main, on whether (hey arc allowed to put a new well in or not.” Cary had questions regarding the Cook Addition, off of West Green Street and Cook Road. “There are a couple more sites out at the Cooks Addition. If somebody was to put up a house with what we are talking about right now, would they have to hook up to the city water and sewer, or do they get a pass on this and will be able to use a well and septic out there?” he asked. “The issue is they have to be within 200 feet of a public utility, and now in Cooks Addition, there is no water or sewer out there. So, most homes out there, I think all of them, are on their own well and septic system,” Tossava said. Jarvis had questions regarding his own property, which is about 200 feet from city utilities. “So basically, I could have three homes built there and not have sewer or water? Is that what we arc saying?” He asked. “I mean I could have a well and septic system up there?” “It would depend on the zoning district. Some of the zoning districts require that there is hooking up to utilities; that’s in our ordi­ nance,” Czarnecki said. “Some of our indus­ trial ones and some of the residential zoning districts don’t have that as a regulation, and so this would basically regulate those.” Redman raised a question regarding the urban services area on the west side of the city adjacent to Rutland Charter Township. “In the urban services area, what type of effect is this going to have out there?” he asked. Czarnecki said urban and suburban areas have an option that allows them not to hook up to city water if they aren’t already hooked up This option is not under city jurisdiction right now; it is under the joint planning com­ mission’s control, he said. “If they are in the urban service district, if it [a city water line] runs past them, they don’t have to hook up to it, but. after three years, they end up paying city taxes,” Czarnecki said. The emergency ordinance was approved and will begin to take effect immediately. The other public hearing conducted during the meeting was .to consider an extension on the expiration dale of the prohibition of mari­ juana establishments in the city. The original ordinance was passed by the city April 8, 2019. The city approved the ordinance in anticipation of state regulations that had not been determined yet, Czarnecki said after the The Mates that the City of Hasting, municiP81’.00 .••, uijshmenr or operation of pnihiht's c of n)anjuana establish.. any and ?hin to boundaries. The ordinance ments withtti itheanng states thaL ^l^extended. the original ordinance would; expire May . When discussing (hc extension of the expi-’ Bren(Ja McNabb_: rali°n dmX motion to eliminate the expira.; Stange madc a ex(endjng lt. tion date rathe can eIimlnate the, W0U Me all together. At this point in expiration da fcnow when we time. 1 don wi[h it but we can< whenever we want to take it up,". john Resseguie and she said. Bowers said they do not think the expiration-^S’^-eitasiti^ B°”wdl?f we leave it as it is it has an exp. ration date on it.” Tossava said. “We don t do- ,S “Well "if you^eaw^the expiration date as May 31. then May 31, anybody can get a license for any type of marijuana operation m our city,” McNabb-Stange said. "Unless we extend it," Resseguie said. I m all for it being extended and the expiration date being next year." . . The motion to have lhe expiration date eliminated was approved, with Resseguie casting a ‘no’ vote. Council member Don Smith w'as absent. . A revision to have the expiration date elim­ inated will be made to the ordinance. The second reading of the ordinance will be con­ ducted at die next city council meeting to allow public input. After the meeting, Czarnecki said, if the council chooses to bring back an expiration date after approving to opt­ out of one, it may do so at any time. The meeting was streamed through two platforms; the live-strcam on the city’s web­ site and through the website GoToMeeting. com. The city made a platform switch since lhe previous meeting, and Czarnecki said the new option is more robust. The council ironed out flaws from the previous virtual meeting by turning off all excess microphones and speakers to eliminate audio feedback and delays — lhe main issues from the previous meeting. "I think this [meeting] was better than the last one," council member Therese MaupinMoore said. The meeting concluded with reminders from various council members to stay home and stay safe. “1 miss seeing every one of you, so you all stay safe so we can get together again," Tossava said. The next city council meeting is scheduled for 7 pan. Monday, April 27. The stay-in executive order is in effect through April 30. Consequently, lhe next city council meeting is planned to again be conducted remotely. ‘ MOOTS aoinoMMees peer-run warmline Warmline will operate seven days a week 10 ajn. to 2 a.m. Starting today, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is launching a statewide warmline for Michiganders living with persistent mental health conditions. The warmline will connect individuals with certi­ fied peer support specialists who have lived through experiences of behavioral health issues, trauma or personal crises, and are trained to support and empower the callers. The warmline will operate seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 2 aJ«-at 888-PEF.R-753 (888-733-7753). It fc intended to serve indi­ viduals living with persistent mental health challenges including anxiety, depression and trauma. Individuals in crisis, including those con­ sidering suicide, are urged to contact the Disaster Distress Helpline 24/7 at 800-985­ 5990 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24/7 at 800-273-8255. “Die warmline will help individuals with long-term mental health challenges find someone to talk to - someone who has lived these challenges themselves - and do it while staying safe and slaying home." said Robert Gordon. MDHHS director. “COVID-19 is a grave threat not just to physical health, but also to mental health, and we arc doing every­ thing we can to offer supports for everyone.” Wannlines arc an alternative to traditional psychiatric crisis hotlines and arc used to avoid extreme emotional distress that can lead to hospitalization or other severe outcomes that arc preventable with early intervention of peer support. Wannlines alleviate the burden on crisis responders by offering a solution for non-crisis callers. The Certified Peer Support Specialist Warmline will offer support for individuals feeling isolated from society, and will provide referrals for outreach and assis­ tance for those seeking critical physical and behavioral health services. The wannline will provide particular sup­ port to underserved Medicaid beneficiaries, who often lack social connectedness and may now have increased anxiety and feelings of severe isolation during this critical time. It is available to all Michiganders, regardless of! insurance status. MDHHS is collaborating with Justice In Mental Health Organization Project DOORS, Michigan’s first peer-run organization. J1MHO will moderate the warmline and network with CPSS, statewide peer-run orga­ nizations, Community Mental Health Association of Michigan and MDHHS peer services unit. For 39 years, JIMHO has provided critical peer-support and community living skills to . persons living with mental illness and has assisted more than 15.000 residents using experienced peer-support specialists during that time. Information around the COVID-19 out­ break is changing rapidly. The latest informaJ, available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus. Blue Zones under new ownership Taylor O’•tBS Blue Zones Projcc^rill continue ils cfforts •O improve the heal* <>f HMD' Cowlt>' res‘de™ under new ow*°hip. . See a Doctor Online 24/7 Cough, fever and difficulty breathing are signs of COVID-19. Get your symptoms checked out from home with a video visit. Log in from your phone, tablet or computer and a doctor will quickly assess your condition and recommend next steps. Use coupon code 2020 and get the care you need now for just $20. Download our app at bronsonhealth.com/vldeovislt. The company Was nurcb**d b> Adven.“s' Health, a nonprofit L t|ihc-ire organization founded on Severn) ijv Adventist values, rhe organization h j a nun^r of hospitals, oimics. home-care iLncieS>*P,Ce a«encies und joint-venture men! centcr‘ ,n 50111 "Blue Zone? ^‘^peretc as a whol­ ly-owned subsidj|2 .Ljership. Matt and I infonn^’^'^ain the same/' Barry County Bln , Activate Director Blue Zones founder Dan Buettner will remain chairman of the board of directors. "Blue Zones is proud to pioneer the advancement of the health of entire cities bv systematically improving living environmenu, so the heahhy choice lhc choice, Buettner said. IVoyer Wiswell said the acquisition was not ^neTUbut „f 'nCial dimcu,,ies »' Blue zones, but of a meeting of the minds” between two organizations with similar objt- said “'t reallv me ......... “ ZoS'oJ'Vor S’e‘S Wi" d° f°r Bluc Nati<^G^XdFdrrk .... .... Co,,nI>las( >ear move into it« d ,bc lniliative was set to invoke TkXTrl Phase- which wouW but those pl.L £"""unity summits. COVID-19 she .d\ bcen a*tcreti due io niationand ineetinod’Wa\S °f sharing infer“ted, so the projecufr^ ’f “rc bcillg eValU’ J ioesn t lose momentum. P°M‘tve about it." she or. our C0|nniunity, it doesn't change, except mon! f<>5 cvmmunhy h"‘^□ay'<H«r- Video Visit Trier WiswdS “T"”*’a Ca,'269-94s-95a4 ™r Hastings “annerads �Tho H'v.t'r-q1 Banr.t' — Thu< ;d <v. Ann' 16, - Pwqe ? Hastings Charter Township meets in person Trustee Bill Wetzel scrutinizes monthly bills to be paid. Luke Fronchcck Staff Writer While townships. city councils, and com­ mittees arc holding meetings online through Zoom video chats and phone calls, official> in Hastings Charter Township practiced social distancing in the same room lliesday night. If this is different from what other boards, councils anJ commissions are choosing to do, that doesn’t surprise Supervisor Jim Brown. "We’re the first people to do a lot of things," Brown said. "We had to pay the hills. You legally have to have a meeting to pay the bills.” Il’s legal to meet electronically, of course, and many boards and commissions are choos­ ing'to handle governmental business in that fashion. But. with only nine attendees, the township was able to follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention social distancing guidelines to protect against the spread of the coronavirus CO VID-19. So. rather than sit side by side in theit usual fashion, the board members were carefully placed throughout the meeting room so as not to be within 6 feet of each other or lhe audi­ ence. The audience was one person: County Commissioner Howard "Hoot” Gibson "I really wasn’t worried about it.” Brown said after lhe meeting. The supervisor said he figured, it social distancing guidelines were observed, a meet­ ing of 16 or fewer would pose no threat to Hastings Charter Township Trustee public safety. During the roughly AO-minute meeting, the James Partridge listens as Barry County board approved: Commissioner Howard Gibson gives his Kelly Newberry as their library monthly report. representative. Spending $2,725 lor sealant for the town­ to jump on that quote while they had it. "The ship office parking lot. insurance industry is nuts right now." McNally Spending SI 1391. M for monthly bills. Spending $3,825 for general liability insur­ said. "If we have a quote, we should take it ance, an increase from $3,534 spent last year. before someone changes their mind.” Trustee Tim .McNally advised board members Supervisor Jim Bro*n (loft), Keith Murphy (center) and Treasurer Jenee Phillips sat with six feet separating one another. j ! • ft /t ?t ■ Although technically a regular board meeting, lhe 6-foot social distance required between everyone in the Hastings Charter Township Hall Tuesday night made the meeting a first for the township. (Photos by Luke Froncheck) When unemployment stimuli checks aod mwgy ^g| mw® Bridge Magazine As Michigan Jogs record jobless claims, the surge coincides with new state and federal safety nets, offering hope for some replace­ ment of evaporating paychecks. More than 8(X),(XX) Michigan residents had filed initial unemployment claims since March 21, just days before Gov. Gretchen Whitmer ordered non-essential businesses to close. Now- state systems and employees arc "work­ ing around the clock,” officials say, to pet relief funds flowing. Key points for those waiting for lhe money: The cap on state unemployment is $362 per week, and the average payout is $325 per week. Normally, imemphryinent benefits are paid for up to 20 weeks. Michigan residents can now get 39 weeks, with the final 13 weeks guaranteed under the federal Coronavirus Aid. Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES). Payment generally fakes two weeks to start after registration, Miid Jason Moon, communi­ cations manager for the Mate's Department of 1-aborand Economic Op|x>rtunity. "The easiest and fastest way to file a claim is through the website.” with most cases ciearinp in 25 minutes. Moon said. Be ready to re-certify every two weeks, though during the pandemic you won t have to prove that you're seeking a new job. Registration continues online and by phone, w ith the state increasing unemployment phone bank staff and hour> this week Registering between 8 p m. and 8 a.m. may be faster, while aficviaiimi pressure on the overloaded system. Fifing online is another pressure release, reserving the phone system for those without connectivity. Jobless vvo.u-rs ahouM hie «dh»> 28 days <>llayoff But II ills'’-'is "" ''s"r ’ '!Kh as ll1’ new -(he state may cxt..n<l lhe lunebue. CAR) S Act expands coverage Worried about meeltur exp-'nsc's "'dh tegu lar uueruidos.neut beutTd*The ( Alli S Act. aiix’W >•' I be <Aiaa uwk for up to 20 sions.alst) w ill add i steel.-, (oruostuuemploynenlbenehielauns. Details arc still pending on how that will reach Michigan residents. "We did receive guidance from lhe federal government early in the week,” Moon said. "We are incorporating that into our systems." Meanwhile, traditional unemployment did not cover people in a variety of work situa­ tions. The C/\RES Act expands that, making it possible for contract workers, "gig” work­ ers. freelancers and people w ho have exhaust­ ed state unemployment options to gel pay­ ments. People whose jobs were interrupted due to (’OVID-19 also are eligible for the payouts, including those taking care of family members with lhe virus. The state soon will announce when those displaced workers can apply for unemploy­ ment. When will you see a payment? Word on when the CARES Act money will reach unemployed residents should be released this weekend, Moon said. $1.200 stimulus checks Many Amcticans can expect to receive up to $1,200 through the Internal Revenue Service .Couples could receive up to $2,400. Families with children will receive an addi­ tional $500 for each child under 17. The payments will go to people with adjust ed gro-.s income up to $75,000 for individuals and up to $!50jD00 for married couples Filing joint returns. Single filers with income exceed­ ing $99,000 and joint filers above $198,000 in income with no children are not eligible, according to the U.S.Treasury. Social Security recipients and railroad retirees who ate other­ wise not required to tile a tax return are also eligible, according to the IRS. I hr government will find you to deliver the windfall, and it says nothing needs to be done to gel lhe money.'lhe IRS is using tax tiling data and previously filed bank information to send the funds. A website will be established soon for people to set up direct deposit H they normally opt to receive a check from the IRS. I reasury Sect clary Steven Mnuchin said last week that payments should start going out next week. Congress released a more detailed timeframe Thursday: •About 60 million payment*. should go out this week through direct deposit. • A second round will go out by the end of April to Social Security beneficiaries who did not file tax returns in the last two years. • By May 4. the ^8 'rill begin issuing paper checks, starting "ith people with the lowest adjusted gross income. Supervisor Jim Brown said that he wasn’t concerned about conducting a regular township board meeting - as long as social distancing guidelines were observed. Pind us on- Bfacebook Join Us Live Sunday April 19th at 10 AM on the Z^p|e$yterian First Presbyterian Church of Hastings Facebookpage. Watch Previous messages at www.firstchurchhastings.org anytime. understand the incredible greatness of God's poicer for us who believe..."-Ephesians 1:19 ■ / ' ' ■1 ■ '■ . �Page 4 — Thursday. AprH 16.2020 - Tw Ha»W fijrrWT Did you see FffiWW. . endemic is tough enough to stomach, but temperatures in the 20s and snow accumulation April 15 amid a deserted down­ , Remember it'was 74 degrees April 8. This week's forecast indicates a chance of snow showers Friday morning, but ^turdav is expected to be mostly sunny with a high of 52 degrees. It s all so surreal, isn't it? But the most bizarre fact of all is mat April 15 has always been Tax Day. when there is typically a mad dash to file taxes before the federal and state deadlines. Not this year. Because of COVID-19, Uncle Sam is giving everyone three more months to file without penalty. Happy No-Tax Dayl remember? Fair barn rising Banner April 22.1965 Building goes up - Jack Warner (left), 334 W. Court St., of Moriarty Farm Buildings, and one of his men. Carl Marlow, 212 W. State Road, (right), watch as Charles Stadel of Charlton Park Road and the Carlton Grange works putting up the 4-H livestock barn at the fairgrounds. The building, sponsored by the Carlton Grange, was completed Monday for use at coming expositions. Moriarty Buildings supplied three workmen and 'know how," Barry Lumber advanced materials, and the Carlton Grangers are raising the money for the barn. Have you met? Jillian Foster understands the importance of good leaders. And teaching good leaders is what she does now in Barry County. Foster lias been with the Barry Community Foundation since early 2019. She is the pro­ gram officer, director of Leadership Barry County, and adviser to the Youth Advisory Council. “When I first learned about the Barry Community Foundation. I understood it was an organization that really cares about the community it serves,” she said, referring to her job as rewarding and fulfilling both per­ sonally and professionally. "1 appreciate the opportunities my work family and boards afford me to explore new ideas and help me to .succeed in my work.” A native of Ithaca, the former Jillian Cline. 36. is the second oldest of five children and a 2002 graduate of Ithaca High School, She said her parents worked hard to make sure she and her siblings were involved as much as possible in sjxjrts. music, theater and organizations such as FFA. Foster herself was in soccer, band (saxophone), community tlie.uer, quiz bowl and FFA. "I hung out al a local community theater house and would do my homework (here. I was curious to learn all I could there so I was able to be involved in how to work the lights and sound systems and anything else they would teach me,” she said. Foster attended Alma College and earned a bachelor of arts in history degree in 2006. She and her sister were the firs! on either side of their family to graduate from college. “I look everything I could get my hand-> on. I studied Spanish. German, history, art, and in my junior year. I was able to study abroad in England and fell in love with British history. Il was one of lhe most important experiences of my life,” she said. While attending Alma College, she met her future husband. Chehey Foster. They were married in 2005 and have an 11-yearold daughter, Petra, who attends school in Hastings. She has relatives who live in Florida, developed what she calls an “addiction” to rhe world of Walt Disney, and spent some time working as a travel agent. Now she .■ M There’s more than one virus in the coun y ■ El V ■■ . Through a windshield, darkly Do you — Jillian Foster vintage Pyrex, and spending time with friends and family. For her willingness to make great leaders here in Barry' County. Jillian Foster is this week’s Banner Bright Light. Something most people don't know about me: I have been doing a podcast with 275 episodes over six years on all things Disney. Favorite vacation destination: England and Wall Disney World. If I could change one thing: I’d love to see post-secondary education - whether it be trades, college or vocational training offered free or very low cost for anyone who wishes to pursue an education. Greatest song ever written: "That’s Life" h) Frank Sinatra Favorite board gaIne as a kid: Clue Biggest challenge- Being my own worst critic. ' ” What I’d tell a high school graduate: Don’t take yourself too seriously: w‘U’ng to have fun and rake risks. ' Best advice ever received: “Do Til it’s done." My mom was really big on this*and h mw ays makes me fee) better to have a project •ttlly completed. If I could meet anyone* Benjamin Franklin. He was so incredibly smart, creative, and hilarious. He never warned to take himself very seriously. Favorite book; -Treasure Island" by Rolwrt 1«U1S Stevcbfon. It has everything I v^rtadaw^A<,^'ure'niyS,^,andi,iS maintains a podcast lor Disney where those who tune in can ask questions for her io answer. "My husband and 1 work hard, but we try to play hard as well.’’ she said “Try to stop ■'"* om“" “ and remember to be a kid. no mailer how old you are.” lavorite Disney ^Ivie* “Peter Pan." I Prior Io working for lhe Community lh ‘ <Xie bi*T0"1' fr°m Foundation, Foster worked as an underwrit­ ing technician for Hastings Mutual Insurance novie because t ;,i 1 had to grow up '"■u“ . Company and then in data processing lor FirstBank. hi the community, she is on the YMCA of Barry County Board, is a member of the a. n. , y<“' Hastings Rotary Club and enjoys volunteer­ '"■“Me , , i ',i; (e‘"ure‘l ing for the various programs it offers. Foster also enjoys volunteering for various nonprof­ <>r "nv . he<)r>hr has,o tell its as well as at her daughter's schixrl when Ne*\rui.,<e,ul i'lfi’iiiwion to she can. Her hobbies include traveling, visit' """b Banner. 'jIN- M,s inp breweries, reading, running, collecting '■‘"“i",'1,',,''" 4““" '"f'" As if fighting off the most deadly virus of our time weren’t enough, Barry County res­ idents are now' feeling the effects ol another. A leadership virus. . Symptoms of this virus began showing up six months ago when county commissioners spent $7O.o6o to hire TowerPinkster, the Kalamazoo-based architectural and engi­ neering firm, to facilitate what was billed to be objective community discussion on the possibilities of building a new jail and to promote a bond issue for it this August or November. Interestingly enough.it was TowerPinkster that also had been contracted for a 2015 county facility planning document that doc­ umented the need for a new jail. During one recent community forum concerning jail planning, it came as no surprise when a company principal stated that Tower Pinkster wouldn’t recuse itself from an eventual bid to be the architect and designer for the project - even though it is. in effect, designing the project and guiding lhe even­ tual bond issue funding. I felt then that commissioners were allow­ ing n conflict of interest in this matter, one that represented the first evidence of a lead­ ership illness. When I listened in Tuesday to the commission meeting - as everyone did by live stream. Zoom, and other platforms - 1 was stunned to hear commissioners direct questions to senior project manager Eric Hackman of TowerPinkster relative to when construction could begin. That tells me commissioners have already determined that the project will not be put out to bid, that TowerPinkster will be the architect on the project. That’s when 1 became convinced we now have a full-blown leadership virus on our hands. On Tuesday’s meeting agenda was the resolution to seek $25 million in bonds to fund a new county jail and sheriff’s depart­ ment facility. Commissioners are making plans to go ahead with this major project in spite of what’s been happening across this coronavirus-stricken state, nation and the world. Companies across lhe county are suffering: people are out of work: yet these officials seem fixated on building a jail with complete disregard for lhe situation brought on by this terrible virus. Holding Tuesday’s meeting remotely made it difficult for residents to respond before commissioners took action on wheth­ er to approve putting the issue on the ballot. To their credit, commissioners voted unani­ mously to postpone the vote until their April 28 meeting, but taxpayers had best lake the time to fully understand what’s being set up here. The language of the bond issue resolution presented Tuesday, and up for final approval on April 28, stales that county commission­ ers will “determine that it is necessary and in the best interest of the county to proceed with the project” and will allow commis­ sioners to choose from one of three options on how they will proceed with lhe project. If taxpayers approve the millage, county com­ missioners will select one of those three options. The first option, which has been recom­ mended as most feasible by hired gun TowerPinkster, would be to build a new facility next to the existing jail, then demol­ ish the old structure. The second option would be to acquire property for a new facility. Commissioners have declined to specifically identify possi­ ble new sites out of concern that their dis­ cussion would drive up the cost of the prop­ erly. Tlic lack of leadership being exhibited here is that commissioners are apparently unaware that one can purchase or sign a purchase option or formulate an agreement while waiting for a final determination on the purchase of property. The third option would be for commis­ sioners to acquire property on which an existing building already exists and, first, renovate it for the sheriff’s department offices and then construct a new adjoining jail. Once again, commissioners show their lack of leadership by stating they don’t want to disclose which property is under consid­ eration. “Disclosing lhe potential site for a new’ jail could hamstring the county," said Chairwoman Heather Wing. “We haven’t discussed it because it ruins our option. Al some point, the community has to trust that we’re doing the best.” Yes, she said "trust’’ lhe commission to do lhe right thing. I don’t think commissioners earned the trust of taxpayers after spending S70JXX) on a plan that, six months later, produces three vague options, all of which they expect voters to approve for the com­ mission’s final evaluation and choice. So they can’t do their homework, pick the best option, then go to voters with their best rec­ ommendation? Give me a break. We’re dying from a leadership virus. All three options call for a new 108-bed facility with plans for an additional 28 beds if growth is exjierienced. That’s another example of leadership virus. It’s blinding .i..L-ied commissioners Crrvm from r'Vnluntl evaluating rh“r ^mon-nse advice: they've been °^dfTn^w7yWin^ world that we need '>1 for morc ,ha" '°° " t 1 thinner in The Banner on January not a spender, particularly when I'm responsible for someone else s money... LXm to f ind the most cost-effective way Ml''the judges - Chief Judge William Doherty^ Circuit Judge Vicky Alspaugh and Sd ip2 . along with their staff members K»kTe time to meet with several commis­ sioners to offer their insight. But that effort fell on deaf ears - it had no impact on the 0PAcrording to Schipper. a bipartisan coalidon of lawmakers has been pushing for changes in Michigan’s bail system; reforms they say will save taxpayers money and free poor people awaiting trial.The Michigan Joint Task Force on Jail and Pretrial Incarceration was formed by an executive order from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer last year to study Michigan’s jail system and recom­ mend how to improve it. Whitmer directed the group to seek alternatives to safely reduce jail admissions, lengths of stay and costs as it aligns to the research. “We have a Democratic governor right now that is pushing prison reforms,” County Commissioner David Jackson said. “Well, next they might be tough on crime and they might be putting 10 times the number of people in jail. You just don t know. We can’t build a jail for the flavor of lhe year.” Barry* County Sheriff Dar Leaf likes the 108-bed flavor and questions lhe motives of a judge who’s responsible for filling a lot of them. “Barry County is going to grow with all the lakes around here so looking at the long term will 108 beds be enough?’’ Leaf asked at a March 3 county commission meeting. “Probably, but a change in judges with one trying to make a name for himself... How’s that going to affect it?” It’s easy for Leaf to call out a judge, but should taxpayers be questioning an overzealous sheriff who is more concerned with building a big jail than its cast to taxpayers or the judge who feels lhe reforms would save taxpayers money and keep non-violent offenders out of jail? Barry County Commissioners have spent more than $100,000 of tax payer money to study this issue and. if you look at lhe report TowerPinkster completed in 2015 along with its current bond issue recommendation report, it’s apparent these leaders failed to formulate a specific plan or plans that tax­ payers could understand and maybe support. When thousands of Barry County workers are laid off and most of our businesses are closed, this is no time to be thinking about spending millions on a jail project. After attending two of the public forums and having been a part of the 2015 master planning sessions, I would agree that we need a new sheriff’s facility and jail. But these commissioners and their hired guns did a terrible job of compiling and selling the project to taxpayers. TowerPinkster failed to take into consideration little if any of the ideas from those who attended the community forums. The original draft that TowerPinkster used in the planning sessions was nearly the same document they present­ ed to commissioners in the recent county board meeting, yet taxpayers ended up with the bill for the facilitator and three vague options on which to vote. During Tuesday’s meeting. Wing remind­ ed commissioners of the state of the jail and the importance of moving forward on a new facility. Putting off the vote until next year would put off any construction until 2022. and risk having to put more money into an old structure. So. the question for Barry County taxpayers is twofold: Do we need a new jail ? I think yes. But should taxpayers trust these commissioners with the decision on where the jail would be built and key etails, such as size and location, that drive up t le cost ? Dial’s the bigger question and. from my perspective, lhe answer is NO. At least two commissioners are indicating uiey may not run for re-election to their ^fniy*ss>on seats in November. Maybe it’s tv U .°5 lni,ni,lc the leadership virus entireb0?k lhe renia,ning five on lhe near- likr f h Ca?nS ,hc station. But, first. I’d like to have three options for w here they can go. Fred Jacobs. J-Ad Graphics h,c �Tho Hastings Bannor - • Thursday. Apn: 16, 202C — Pago 5 Prevention is especially importar1* n°w A reminder for Riverwalk users h»ve been postponed „ 9- ° man> ,h>n^ Children s Trnst^uf f 'kTT,Cdencouraged us to find » Mldh,8an has April as Child ,\buse j L WeOf!n’": White we aren’t able 1^'.Cn!,on Mo"‘h. dens at this time. Wc can , n Plnwh<*l gar10 raise awareness and en,J' . “* col,tc*>vely the nation to plav •. . u pnWer People across great childhood, C ‘n hc,l>int-’ ensure Our efforts to r.iivt* ment and impact positive X” I"11 e"g;^c’ as s ital as es er. iKZuuhT arv Abuse Prevention Mtwh fo' r <Tc Child what do you The Rivcrwalk has been used very heavily during the lockdown for people to walk, run and ride bikes. People are still required to apply “social distancing strategies while on the Riverwalk. Police said they have received numerous reports of people on bicycles cutting off others on the Riverwalk and nearly colliding with other users. Hie city parks remain open to foot traffic, although lhe playground equipment is not open tor use. letc. All you need is “Everyone can make great childhoods happen — especially you, especially now.” You don’t have to be a movie star or a professional ath- think? Financial FOCUS to ^ake a differ- '^Although "’S Phys" cal health from th« nalid* fLappears lo be low. the risk W ,,n?s children for experiencing child a oncenaim 'lmes of extreme stress a>'d un is actually Provided by the Barry County offices of Edward Jones Kevin Beck, AAMS® 400 W. State St, Suite B Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-4702 nK and ^'^,^>sings can uucstion l.a^C part in an interactive public opinion poll. Vote on the will be t ihnlnr»i ,"ec^ accessing our website. www.HastingsBunner.com. Results will be tabulated and reported along with a new question the following week. Poll question: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s expanded stay-at-home order has pas­ sionate supporters and ardent critics. It’s being challenged in fed­ eral court. Foes of the order had a caravan of cars and trucks drive around the state Capitol Wednesday to register their objections. Do you think it’s imperative to economic stability in Michigan to start getting back to work in May? Why? Send responses to editor@j-adgraphics.com (jWrite Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • * Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. increase stress m Pa£ • . J,tlng from loss of income due to,aC\ .Pf ^aVc« an unex­ pected or irregular n child care; and even food insecurity. school meal pro­ grams become unavai a •Additionally, an unintended consequence o social distancing is isolation, which contra lets the concept that social and emotional connectedness and sup­ port arc protective of mental health and posi­ tive discipline strategiesOne way we do this is by supporting the expansion of evidence- ased home visiting programs, such as those provided by our par­ ent educator, so we can help families cope with stress and trauma. Another way is to support expanding fam­ ily-friendly policies, such as paid sick and family leave, to help reduce stress on parents and caregivers. We have several events planned so Barry County residents can participate remotely and stay aligned with the governor’s request to stay home. Check out the Facebook page for Family Support Center of Barry County or our website, faniilysupportbarryxom. You can help us advance these programs and policies by participating in our nation­ wide digital advocacy day.Tuesday, April 28, when we’ll be empowering people across the country to contact members of Congress to take action on the Child .Abuse and Treatment Act or special coronavirus-related legisla­ tion. This is a perfect way to get involved even if you’re working or laming from home and social distancing. Visit preventchildabuse.org/yesyou to learn more about Digital Advocacy Day, as well as a wide range of fun. engaging and empowering virtual activities occurring throughout the month Kross Michigan. Together, we can prcvQpjchiki abuse.because childhood lasts a lifetime Linda Maupin, Executive Director Family Support Center of Barry County Andrew Cove, AAMS© 421 W. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-3553 Put tax-smart investing moves to work The tax return deadline has been extended until mid-July, but you may have already filed your taxes. If you were not entirely happy with the results, you might start seeking ways to change the outcome for next year. And one area to look at may be your investmentrelated taxes. To help control these taxes, consider these moves: • Take full advantage of taxdeferred investments. As an investor, one of the best moves you can make is to contribute as much as you can afford to your tax-deferred accounts - your traditional IRA and 401(k) or similar employersponsored plan - every year. If you don’t touch these accounts until you retire, you can defer taxes on them for decades, and when you do start taking money out, presumably during retirement, you may be in a lower tax bracket. • Look for tax-free opportunities. Interest from municipal bonds typically is exempt from federal income tax, and. in some cases, from state and local income tax, too. (Some municipal bonds, however, may be subject to the alternative minimum tax.) And if you qualify to contribute to a Roth IRA - eligibility is generally based on income - your earnings can be withdrawn tax-free, provided • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Qkrow Your Legislators ™cmi’cr sirk K. A. MUELLER ACCOUNTING you’ve had your account for at least five years and you don’t start taking withdrawals until you’re at least 59-1/2. Your employ er may also offer a Roth 401(k), which can provide tax-free withdrawals. Keep in mind, though, that you contribute after-tax dollars to a Roth IRA and 401(k),unlike a traditional IRA and 401(k), in which y our contributions are made with pre-tax dollars. • Be a "buy and hold" investor. Your 40I(k) and IRA are designed to be long­ term investments, and you will face disincentives in the form of taxes and penalties if you tap into them before you reach retirement age. So, just by investing in these retirement accounts, you are essentially pursuing a “buy and hold” strategy. But you can follow this same strategy for investments held outside your IRA and 401(k). You can own some investments - stocks in particular - for decades without paying taxes on them. And when you do sell them, you’ll only be taxed at the long-term capital gains rate, which may well be less than your ordinary income tax rate. But if you’re frequently buying and selling investments you’ve held for less than a year, you could rack up some pretty big tax bills, because you’ll likely be taxed at your BRINGEVERYTHING' YOU LOVE TOGETHER! © U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash. Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building. Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831. fax (202) 225­ 5144, District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 2<g1?v Pe?ers,democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510oono nhone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room 7M1lS Michigan Street NW. Grand Rapids. Mich. 49503-2313. phone (616) 233"! ^President's comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Cap77 and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. ..mation line for Congress Hastings Banner, Inc. „ A Division Of J-Ad Graphics Inc. , m al Htohway • Phono: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 1351 N- M 'J nows^dgfdphics.com •Advertising: ndsd?j adgraphlcs com . ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT. Frederic Jacobs PubhshOf & CEO Hank Schuuring CFO •NEWSROOMRebecca Pierce (Eddor) Kathy Maurer <Cop^d, r) BretlBrenwr(SpP"sfrf''Of? Taylor Owens Greg Chandler Hastings, Michigan (269) 945-3547 CUssdwd ads accvpM Monday Wouah Friday 8'30am to5 00pm $19." 190 channels ■/"w’t Including Local Channels! CALL TODAY-For SI 00 Gift Card 1-855-382-2485 ^ dish .A www.kamuelleraccounting.com hope awakens Free Virtual Event Predictions Of The Past Speak To The Future Of The World /\re You looking for answers? Where are we in earth’s history? Is Arnerico talked about in the Bible? These and much more will be covered in the FREE Virtual Event EVENT starts Friday, April 17t 202O, at 7:00 PM (EST) Then .voted Hastings Banner to lhe Interest of Har,y County since 1856 Du 221 South Jefferson Street Blazing Fast Internet! 2-YEARTV PRICE GUARANTEE cmoo Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Mi 48933- Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free. 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; U.S. mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. ordinary income tax rate. • Be preparedfor unexpected taxes. Mutual fund managers are generally free to make whatever trades they choo>e. And when they do sell some investments, they can incur capital gains, which will be passed along to you. If this is a concern, you might look for funds that do less trading and bill themselves as tax efficient. While taxes are certainly one factor to consider when you invest, they should probably not be the driving force. You need to build a diversified portfolio that’s appropriate for your risk tolerance and time horizon. Not all the investments you select, and the moves you make with them, will necessarily be the most tax efficient, but by working with your financial and tax professionals, you can make choices that can help you move toward your long-term goals. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC Edw ard Jones, its employ ces and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult y our attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation. RESERVE YOUR SPOT NOW! MICHAEL KINNEY PLUMBING Licensed Master Plumber Licensed Journeyman Plumber New construction, remodel, repair, drain cleaning BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEATERS Same Dav Installation Liveiisv *8111)376 Office (269) 948-2248 A. hiMircd Mobile (269) 838-5112 I-------- VVX/VVvV^^/VvX^vVV- OPEN Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-3 pan. 945-9673 'Pray Tor Cur 'Nation \ Sidtend 218 E Slate St. Hastoga To Register go to: 945-9673 Hulst Cleaners Pick-Up Station A AAAA-A AA. Scort Ommen Ty Greenfield Mike Gilmore Colleen Egleston Jennie Yonker Subscription Rates: $45 per year in Bany County $50 per year in adjoining counties $55 por year elsewhere POSTMASTER Sctxl P.O 80/ IM Ha Wigs. Ml 43058 01B3 Second Class Poi-taqo P.uj Hastes. Mi 43053 ta Call for Hastings Banner ads 269*945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 �Paqe 6 - Tbureday. Apnt 16. 2020 - ™ Hnst.no. Ba^- Shirley_AnnCotant Robert Eugene Menck 1 this week. Someon. People . at the east end of Jordan Lake at the comer c Meyers Drive which runs along the east shore of lhe lake across from rental cottages. We have seen the peak of theJonqmIsjd daffodils along with crocus and other early ^rinn flowers Forsythia bushes arc coming : into their prime. Early purchases from nursery ■ companies have already arrived for planting. ' Some families found unique ways to Call 269-945-9554 lor Hastings Banner classified ads celebrate Easter within the confines of their S'mes. TVocouples shared a menu, with each lady providing half of the items, in double quantity. Then they swapped dishes so each family had a full meal. Thankstolodays'technology.churchgroups found creative ways to celebrate Easter. Wnh split screens, an orchestra in Grand rapids played beautiful music but viewers saw individual players, possibly six at a time. Likewise singers were shown singly but with multiple images on the screens. It must have been strange for ministers, accustomed to seeing a sea of faces, to bang their Easter message in an empty sanctuary. They got no feedback. One thoughtful lady in Sebcwa Township has a new daily pastime to while away the time when she cannot go places. She is using her church director}'. Each day she makes telephone calls to six people from the booklet. This gives her conversation to inquire about the well-being of church friends and maybe gets her some news. The friend on the receiving end of the call gets an update on a fellow church member and her family. Hopefully the travel ban and isolation issue will be over before she gets through the entire list. April 16,2020 । 1 i Dear Governor Whitmer; I I I Your message to the people of the state last Monday regarding the importance ■ of the Stay Home Stay Safe directive could not have been more appropriate. I also appreciated the statements indicating how seriously you are also taking the _ “phase-in of our economy” concern because businesses throughout the state cannot last much longer. | As we begin to contain this deadly virus it’s imperative that you also help this state economy to get back on track as soon as possible. Few of us have | received any of the support dollars that the federal government has promised and the state, too, is suffering due to substantial declines in tax revenues. | That’s why you should start in early May to help business and industry avoid wtiat will become the worst recession in American history. As governor, you will decide when to cautiously re-start our economic engine | with one foot on the brake to guard against a resurgence of the Covid-19 virus, but I believe the threat has been greatly diminished thanks to how our population has responded. During the 1918 Spanish Flu, there was no internet, no television and no way to get out the message out quickly on the importance | of iocial distancing, wearing masks and distancing ourselves from other people. “ More than 500,000 people perished during that pandemic. I Within days of the warnings about this pandemic, citizens got the message that their lives could be in danger if they didn’t stay-at-home and follow the guidelines set by medical professionals. Now, more than two months later, it’s time to carefully set the wheels in motion, setting reasonable guidelines so that we can turn on the engines of our economy. With each passing day, thousands of businesses, restaurants and industrial owners look to you to give them the lifeline they need. Failure to move early in May will only deepen the threat of a long lasting turndown that will close up Main Streets across the state dig greater crevices in the emotional and mental states of families locked in their homes with little hope that tomorrow will be a better day. We will look back on these days as some of the worst days in our lives when we were unable to attend a family or a friend's funeral. Or we couldn’t be there when a family member was dying in the hospital or needed surgery that wasn’t considered necessary. | Your aggressive isolation strategy is saving lives - thank you - but we also have to evaluate the continuing damage the policy is inflicting on the economy and | the families that depend on it. The “putting lives ahead of business,” as you’ve stated, is a delicate balance to keep but, if we work together, we can have both! Think about it governor, every time we get into a car, an airplane or even walk ■ across the street we risk our lives. We deal with threats and work to minimize the ■ possibility of experiencing them every day. Nearly 1.32 million people are killed in car accidents every year; an additional 20 to 30 million people are injured or disabled. Yet, we still drive and still concentrate on making travel safer. In 12019, an estimated 1.7 million new cases of cancer were diagnosed in the U.S, and more than 600,000 died due to the disease. So we are all threatened by ■ something in our lives yet we continue to study and to discover new ways to reduce those deaths. - Now, it’s our time to get back to the work of saving lives, saving businesses, and saving our economy. Putting this off beyond lhe April 30 deadline will impact every person in our state now and for years to come. I I j I I | ■ ■ ■ ■ I » | We know lhe threat; we know how important it is to follow the guidelines of medical experts. Now it's time for you, governor, to trust that we will do | ’ everything we can to make this work. The campaign slogan says it best, “We're | in this together” and together we can make this work. ; J | It's time to get back towork. I 1 Fred Jacobs, CEOJ-AD Graphics Hastings. Ml I | ■ I ■ If you share the sentiments expressed in this letter and would like to add your feelings to the governor, send her this column or your own note of concern at: ’ Send to: | ■ Gretchen Whitmer, Governor | Feggy Goldsworthy, age 76. of Hastings passed away Friday. April 3, 2020 at Thomapple Manor, in Hastings. Peggy was bom in Hastings on December 7, 1943, the daughter of the late Nial and Dorothy (Otis) Castdein. She was raised in the Hastings area, attending Quimby school and graduated from Hastings High School in 1962. She continued her education, taking college courses and beauty school, where she received her license to practice cosmetology. She was lhe wife of Donald Goldsworthy. The couple originally met on July I. 1990 and were married five years later on July I. 1995 and would have celebrated 25 years of marriage this summer. Early in their marriage. Don and Peg enjoyed Blue Gill fishing at Larabee Lake, near Hastings, something she’d always enjoyed in her younger years at a relatives cabin on Loon Lake near Irons. After a day of fishing, the “catch of day’’ was cleaned, then fried to perfection for lhe entire family to enjoy an ole fashion "fish fry"! Peggy was an extremely hard worker who began working at a local drive-in restaurant and the soda fountain at Gardners Pharmacy. In 1978 she joined Bradford White Corporation, in Middleville, where she worked faithfully until 2002 retiring after 24 years of service to the company. When Peg was younger she enjoyed bowling with her brother and roller skating al the local Roller Rinks in Hastings and Thomapple Lake. She was also a veryactive member of lhe 4H clubs. She attended Quimby Church most of her life. Family was always Peg’s first priority, whether planning ahead for needs that might arise, or attending the annual family reunion Peg’s passion for being close to those she It was loved most was undeniable. important to Peg that she maximize the family’s dollars so shopping became not only enjoyed something she tremendously, but that she also look very seriously. Shopping with Peg, was typically an all day adventure visiting several stores, not purchasing anything, until she was certain she had found the best deal. This often meant returning to the very first store she started at. She especially enjoyed seeking those items hidden on clearance racks to claim the ultimate bargain. In her spare time. Peg enjoyed knitting and crocheting; mostly hats, mittens and afghans She rarely kept these handcrafted items, choosing instead to give them to her children, grandchildren and beloved friends. Peg especially enjoyed time spent with her entire family getting together at her home for homemade pizza and onion rings. Peg ma(je sure each pizza was made to order, with the exact ingredients that each person requested and enjoyed most. Peg had the beautiful gift of contentment* it didn’t matter what she was doing, Or who she was with she had the ability to enjoy the time she was given. An unforgettable moment for Don was when Peg asked him to take her lor a ride on the couple’s Harlev Davidson motorcycle. Don Gladly oblio/t and the couple left Michigan traveled8 tn Virgina Beach, down the East coast h.- r * back home through the Appa|K|.'"g mountains, covering over 2600 J •. together. mi,es Peggy is survived by her beloved huKhm i Don; three daughters, Louannc (Jim) Fi »i1 Wynettc (Don) Hawkins. Christi" ’ •IVn-il AT yTy) SegUr; ^l^ughtej’ lynul (Shawn) Johnson; grandchildren’ Cassie (Jason) Bailey. Nikole (R.L".’ Richter, Ashlie (Mike) Banks. Timm,T Stecker Mmdy Stcckeri Hlandi llasvkjnT Emilic Hawkins, Kaitlyn Seeur D -ln?’ Oowdy She also i^es‘ gra.tdchtIdren. brothers-in-law anti sn<1t' David (Linda) Goldsworthy, Bob (K Goldsworthy. Tontmv (Barb) Og|cl't‘,rv" niatty nteces and nepi,cws. as well . Atv"'" <kar life long friend SCVeral । Ronald Castdein I State of Michigan PO Box 30013 Lansing, Ml 48909 | prisXy' "S MMtha’ and K’ing inducted >o\h?'DLfiXT"'u,l1\lrclK',;'Kiiir,,',u'd Iw further de- t "0™1 Nasl"'iHe. www.d.tniek ' Plea,c V,S" ‘>,,r Hl ■mKI'l»nera||1„me.net Robert Eugene Menck, age 74. passed away on April 10,2020. Robert was bom on July 29. 1945 in and Dena Kalamazoo to Clifford (Musselman) Menck. Robert retired from Conrail in 1995 after over 20 years of service. He enjoyed nature and the outdoors, especially sitting out by the water. He liked riding around in his golf cart. In his younger years, Robert enjoyed hunting and giving hayrides to family and friends. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandkids. Robert will be missed by his loving wife of 49 years. Jeri Menck; children, Warren (Jamie) Menck. Robert DeZoete. Deborah Wells; nine grandchildren; and four great grandchildren. Robert was preceded in death by his parents and brother. David A. Menck. Per Robert’s wishes cremation has taken place and no services are planned at this lime. Memorial contributions to St. Jude’s Research Hospital will be appreciated. Please visit www.williamsgorcsfuner.il. com to share a memory' or to leave a condolence for Robert’s family. Dorothy Jean Hawkins r— Shirley Ann Cotant. age 83 of Hastings, died on April 14,2020. She was bom on July 25. 1936. the daughter of Marshall G. and Evelyn W. (Steele) Belson. On December 10, 1975. she married Richard Cotant. She worked at Hastings Savings and Loan. Shirley liked to read, cook, travel, and enjoyed embroidery and flowers. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Hastings. Shirley was preceded in death by her husband of 43 years, Richard Cotant; her parents; brother, Larry Belson; father and mother-in-law, Dwight and Gonne Cotant, and sister-in-law, Marilyn Cotant. She is survived by her son, James (Christine Kennedy) Cotant of Hastings; son, Ronald (Jill Lenz) Cotant of Fort Wayne. IN; daughter. Nancy (Lou) Cotant Burroughs of Delton, daughter, Amy Teunessen of Kearney, NE, daughter, Judy (Scott) Fletcher of Ludington; grandchildren, Chadwick Cotant. Melissa (Evan) Rees, Ellen (Andrew) Cooper, Erin (Zachary Wright) Cotant, Annette Cotant. Abby Burroughs. Michelle (Garrett) Sowman, Ben Teunessen, Jenna (Matthew) Rubick, Marissa Benton, Justin Thompson, Brittany Cotant. Jared Brown, Kiley (Kristine Cochran) Brown and Trcnten Hull; great grandchildren, Mackenzie Rees, Lillian Rees, Claire Rees, Elijah Rees, Wesson Wright, Savannah Allen, Jaycce Teunessen, Aaliyah Teunessen, Grant Rubick, Ashton Thompson, Loni Comer, and Gaige Kathy Belson of Woolum; sister. Summerville. SC; brother-in-law. William Cotant of Hastings; sister-in-law, Jean (Donald) Couch of Delton; nieces and nephews, Arthur (Judy) Cotant, Robert (Kathy) Cotant, Lori (Dan) Jorg, Ann (Bruce) Scheck. Chris (Darren) Hiar. Julia (Anton) Duniars. Dan Belson and Andy Belson. A graveside memorial service will be held on Monday, April 20. 2020 at 1 pm. at Riverside Cemetery in Hastings. Due to lhe Michigan Governor’s Executive Order limiting gatherings to 10 people or less, guests will be by invitation only, however the service will be streamed live al https:// www.facebook.com/GirrbachFuneralHome/ You do not need a Facebook Account to view it. A full memorial service will be held at a later date once the order is lifted. Memorial Contributions can be made to First Presbyterian Church of Hastings or Spectrum Health Hospice and Palliative Care. Arrangements by Girrbaeh Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.ncl. Dorothy Jean Hawkins, a lifelong resident of Hastings, went home to be with her I-ord and Savior. Jesus, on April 4, 2020 at Carveth Village in Middleville. Dorothy was born on April 30, 1931, lhe daughter of William Reid and Alta Belle (Callahan) Reid. Dorothy was a 1949 graduate of Hastings High School. On July 30, 1949 she married Harold F. Hawkins, and they were married for 52 years prior to his death. Dorothy was a beautician in Hastings and was the owner of her own business called “The Curling Iron’’. She served on lhe Hastings City Council from 2002-2006. She was a member of Cedar Creek Bible Church and worked for years in the Sunday School Program at First Baptist Church of Hastings and loved singing in the choir. She liked to (ravel, enjoyed camping with family, but roost of all. jusl spending lime with her family and grands. Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband; parents; and siblings, Thelma Gampbell, Margaret Armour, Robert Meredith, Earl Wayne, and Helen Foster. She was born lhe youngest of eight children on her eldest sister’s 19th birthday. Dorothy is survived by her daughters, Neysa (Steve) Kirouac. Pamela (Larry) Cook, Joan (Ron) Schrubba, Stephanie (Tim) Girrbaeh; eight grandchildren. Noelle, Bnx)k, Courtney. Callie. Joshua, Luke. Katie, and Quinn: 21 great-grandchildren, Jillian, Rey, Lorraine. Agnus, Seth. Marcus, Eldon. Peter. Eleanor, Lucy, Jocelyn, Jaxon, Avncr, Iseln, Flannery. Desmond. Zachary, ^-oey, Gradon, My la and Chance. A graveside service was held on Monday. April 6, 2020 at Hastings Township Cemetery, Pastor Robert Norton of C'edar Creek Bible Church officiating. A Celebration of Life will be held at a future lime. Arrangements by Gin bach Funeral Home, to leave an online condolence, visit www girrbachfuneraihoinc.net _____ Raymond Lynn Cooley ] Raymond Lynn Cooley, age 83 of Englewood, FL, formerly of Hastings, passed away on April 9. 2020. Raymond was bom on July 23. 1936 in Hastings, lhe son of Lawrence and Ruth (Loveland) Cooley. He was a 1953 graduate of Hastings High School and also attended Western Michigan University. On January 5, 1957. Raymond married Elaine A. Bryans. Raymond proudly served in the U.S. Navy Iruin 1955-1957 honorably discharged at lhe rank ol Radamtan 2nd Class, and worked (or EW Bliss, Ux'al Finance, Rex Sales Corporation, Superior Distributing (. ompany, Hastings Aluminum Products, and Hall Family Enterprises Raymond enjoyed golf and music and was a member of the Hastings Jaycees. He was also a Ixiyal Order Moose Life Member, and a member of BPOE Hastings Elks. Raymond was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Norman, Keith,’ and Hubert. He is survived by his wife of 63 years. Elame Cooley, and sons. Steven (Judy). Christopher (Deb). Craig (Renae), and grandchildren, Mau. Anna, and Carson. A private ceremonv with family planned. Arrangements by Girrbaeh Funeral Home lo leave an online condolence visit ww^girrbachI uneral home .net. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. April 16. 2020 Pago 7 SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Man arrested for argument over marijuana and a book Some beneficiaries to provide information online • . • Hie U.S.Treasury' Department launched a new web fool allowing quick registration for the Economic W quai&^'.for which Economic Impact Payments for eligible they areTO clip ,n^,vidunls individuals who do not normally file a tax should <0 £,[RS * ’ "m Enter return, and also announced that it would begin Payment Info P& ub( Sc website and making automatic payments. However, for provide inform3"1 themselves and some people receiving benefits from the nc^ Social Security zXdministralion - specifically their qualifying c Additionally. ‘in- SccJ*nefic,aries since those who have dependent children under the Jan. 1 of eit^r S^^lyorSSI benefits, age of 17 - it is to their advantage to go to this who did not file n ^2°18 or 2019. portal to ensure they also get the $500 per also will need ir :nfoJRs "Non-Filcrs" dependent economic impact payment. website to enter their.nfonnalll)n Social Security Commissioner Andrew Lastly. SoC,?1:lv l Ur">' retirement, Saul said he encourages them to do this as survivors, or disabthO ^eficiaries who do soon as possible and provided the following not have qualifying under age 17 do details: not need to take any action Wlth thc IRS Thcy People who receive Social Security retirement, survivors, or disability insurance will automatically receive their $1,200 benefits and who did not file a tax return for economic impact payment directly from the 2018 or 2019 and who have qualifying IRS as long as they received an SSA-1099 for . , children under age 17 should go to the IRS’s 2019. "For SSI recipients who do not have webpage at irs.gov/coronavirus/economicimpact-payments to enter their information qualifying children un erage 17, we continue instead of waiting for their automatic $ 1.200 to work closely with 1 reasury in our efforts to economic impact payment. By taking make these payments automatically" Saul proactive steps to enter information on the said. “Please note that \ve will not consider IRS website about themselves and their Economic Impact Payments as income for qualifying children, they will also receive the SSI recipients, and the payments are excluded $500 per dependent child payment in addition from resources for 1- months." The eligibility requirements and other to their $1,200 individual payment. If Social Security beneficiaries in this group do not information about the economic impact provide their information to the IRS soon, payments can be found at irs.gov/coronavirus/ they will have to wait to receive their $500 economic-impacl-payment-informationcenter. [kt qualifying child. The same new guidance also applies to Supplemental Security Income recipients. Linda Susan Walker, of | |aslj She was born on Mn> 3|. |94<> • ,'L^>^er of Ra;,nont .nd • Evd>:" Compton. Linda loved spending time w.th her family. especially her . grandchildren. She dedicated her Jif., raking care of her daughter Tammy, who has , special needs. She loved the outdoors and enjoyed watching wildlife. She had a big heart and was alway s willing |O help anyone she could Linda is preceded in death by her parents. Raymond Compton and Evelyn (Pittslev) Garrow; sisters, Sharon Payne. Christine Burrows and Gloria McPeak ’ She is survived by her sisters. Viola Haberland and Irone Protnik; brothers. Butch Compton. Ray Compion and Russ Compton; daughters. Jeanette Taggart and Tammy Walker; son. Charles Walker; granddaughters. Heather Sibley and Tiffany Sibley, and grandson. Dion Sibley and 10 groat grandchildren. Due to the Michigan Governor’s ' Executive Order limiting gatherings, the ’ family will schedule a Celebration of l ife , Service at a later date and will Ik* posted at our website. Memorial contributions can Ik* made to the family for funeral expenses. ‘ Arrangements by Girrbaeh Funeral Home, to leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. The Hastings City Police responded to a domestic violence complaint in the 400 block of East Woodlawn Avenue at 9:15 pan. April 5. When officers arrived, they spoke to a 28-year-old woman who said her child's father, 25. was at her house for his parenting time, when they got into an argument over a bag of marijuana he had left at lhe house. The woman said she also had been reading a book that he owned and the argument turned physical. She said the man pinned her to the ground and sat on her back. I Ik* woman showed officers signs of injury and said lhe man had fled the house with the marijuana and the book. Officers located the man. who corroborated lhe argument, but denied any phys­ ical altercation. He was arrested. Intoxicated man crashed into ditch near Speedway Police responded to a single-vehicle crash in front of the Woodbury Speedway gas sta­ tion at 8 p.m. April 13. A 37-year-old Greenville man. who appeared to be highly intoxi­ cated, said he was "drunk and he crashed." He pointed at an empty fifth of liquor on the floor of his vehicle. A witness saw the vehicle drive from the gas station, over a parking barrier, through some grass and into a ditch. The man passed out in the back of the officer’s vehicle, and Emergency Medical Services workers took him to a hospital for a checkup before he was taken to jail. Driver dumps beer on floor when stopped An officer initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle traveling 65 mph in a 45-mph zone on State Road near Country Club Drive in Hastings at 2:31 aan. April 13. The officer noticed several empty beer cans and a case of beer in the vehicle. The driver, a 28-ycar-old Middleville man, said he was on his way to his mother’s house, and admitted to drinking “a couple" beers. The officer noticed a puddle of beer on the floor of the vehicle, and the man admitted he dumped out half a beer when the officer stopped him. He had a 0.174 blood alcohol content. He was arrested. RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ORDINANCE SUBMITTAL TO. THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF RUTLAND, BARRY COUNTY. MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that proposed Ordinance #2020-175 appended hereto was introduced for first read­ ing by the Rutand Charter Township Board at its March 11. 2020 making. Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices for Site Selection and Odor Control for New and Expanding Livestock Facilities issued by the Michigan Commission of Agriculture & Rural Development under authority of the Michigan Right To Farm Act; and further clarifying the keeping or raising of livestock lor any non-commercial purpose is not allowed in any zoning dis­ trict, thus causing Section 4.13 to read as follows; * “Section 4 13 Exotic Animals, and livestock This proposed ordinance will be considered for adoptionby the Township Board at its scheduled regular meeting on May 13, 2020 commencing at 7:00 p.m. at the Charter Township Hall (or at such subsequent regular meeting as may be held in accordance with any applicable State Executive Order or Township policy relating to the Covid-19 pandemic and public gatherings). Viras formation How do viruses form? Since the coronavirus has been all over the news. I've been wondering this question for a long time. Samantha. 12. North Carolina Dear Samantha. Viruses are strange things. They’re not alive like you and I arc. But they behave somewhat that way — spreading, growing, appearing in new forms. How can this be? There’s a lot scientists don’t know yet about the new coronavirus. But they do know a lot about how viruses work and make people sick. To learn more. 1 talked to Sylvia Omulo, a scientist specializing in infectious diseases al Washington State University. Your body is made of tiny building blocks called cells. Different cells do different types of work, she said. They all follow instructions written in your body: your genes. Viruses also have genes, but they don t have cells like you or I do. Instead, they rely on the cells in other creatures to come "A virus is a particle of genetic material dial causes an infection by invading a cel . Omulo said. "It’s extremely small, smaller than a cell.” . . . ... . You can think of a virus particle ike a letter with bad news, tucked tns.de .u envelope. Layers ol protein cover a bundle of genes (tire lUUrt. genetic instructions to take over the cell. The virus disrupts thc cell’s usual work. Omulo said, using its resources to make copies of itself. Those virus copies invade other cells, repeating lhe process. The host becomes sick as a result. Usually, the virus copies itself exactly. But because viruses have genes, they also evolve over time. This means they’re changing, even as they’re making copies of themselves. That’s part of how new’ virus forms emerge. Viruses have been around for millions of y ears, much longer than humans have. Some only affect plants or bacteria. Some affect only some animals. Other viruses spread from animals to humans. Omulo said this is one way new viruses appear. A virus might affect humans, but not lhe animals carrying it. If it gets the opportunity to jump to humans, it also can make them sick. But remember: A virus isn’t alive on its own. It needs an opportunity to enter a cell It’s y our job to ruin that opportunity. When you wash your hands with soap you rub off the virus’ "envelope." The bad news can’t go anywhere. When you keep distance from others, you close you, "mailbox.” Virus particles can’t enter yOUr cells or anyone else’s. Without a host, a virus can’t do anything That’s why it’s so important not to give the virus that chance. Stay safe and slay curious. Dr. Universe protecting it until it s ready to x. ^Vrtut partic.es spread tbrouyh tlK- air or on surfaces. They cause in cclioi get inside someone s body­ opens if the virus enters the creature, called the host, lhe 'irus Do you have a question? Ask Dr Universe. Send an email to Washington Stale University's resident scientist and writer at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu or visit her in'hsite. askdnmiverse.com. Chi>‘J . Editorial note: this document is prepared In ‘legislative for­ mat": existing text deleted is shown lined-through; new text is shown in bold type. www.gmushrooms.org Livestock. The keeping or raising of live­ stock is subject to the following: 1. This Zoning Ordinance does not pro­ vide for commercial production live­ stock land uses In any zoning dis­ trict, but certain premises may poten­ tially be determined by the State of Michigan to be permissible for the sit­ ing of a new or expanding commer­ cial livestock production facility pur­ suant to the Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices for Site Selection and Odor Control for New and Expanding Livestock Facilities issued by the Michigan Commission of Agriculture & Rural Development under authority of the Michigan Right To Farm Act. BARRY COUNTY, STATE OF MICHIGAN RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP ORDINANCE NO. 2020-175 (proposed) ADOPTED BY TOWNSHIP BOARD: EFFECTIVE DATE: (OR AS OTHERWISE PROVIDED BY LAW) CITY OF HASTINGS ORDINANCE NO. (PROPOSED) ADOPTED BY CITY COUNCIL: Non-_CQmmciciol PioducIlQn Purposes- The keeping or raising of 2. EFFECTIVE DATE:______________ (oras otherwise provided by law) JOINT QRPINANGE TP AMENE. afrSTINSSiBUTLAND JOINT PLANNING CQMMISSIQH ZONING ORDINANCE livestock for any non-commerclal purpose Is not allowed in any zoning district. For purposes of tho provisions of this Zoning Ordinance pertaining to the keeping or raising of livestock for “commercial” purposes, or referring to a livestock “production" facility or similar term, these terms shall mean the act of producing an item intended to be sold at a profit.” 3. An Ordinance to amend Section 4.13 of the Zon­ ing Ordinance Of the Hastings-Rutland Joint Planning Com­ mission (Rutland Charter Township Ordinance No. 2016­ 156. as amended/City of Hastings Ordinance No. 532, as amended) pertaining to the keeping of animals. the city of SECTION;?. Hastings & the charter township OF RUTLAND Barry county, Michigan SECTION 1 AMENP^^PK SECI1QNJ.13 PERTAINING TO.THE KEEPING OF.AN1MALS . ........ ^^..^.tStordU^t < „ ' :.i :1k Storrl IfabitJl. .-.-.d PO BOX515CN9' GRAWN. CA 95444 B. CITY OF HASTINGS & CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF RUTLAND *■'" ' ’ ' GOURMET MUSHROOMS Exotic animals are not permitted on any prem­ ises which are under the jurisdiction of the Joint Planning Commission without a determi­ nation by the Zoning Administrator that the subject animal(s) will pose no threat to the health, safety and welfare of persons or prop­ erty, after submission of a site plan pursuant to Chapter 9 and pursuant to the standards for site plan approval in Section 9.04; provid­ ed that the Zoning Administrator may instead refer the site plan submission to the Planning Commission for review pursuant to lhe appli­ cable provisions of Chapter 9 if the Zoning Administrator determines such review by the Planning Commission instead of the Zoning Administrator is in the public interest. Rutland Charter Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with dis­ abilities at the meeting/hearing upon seven (7) days* notice to Rutland Charter Township. Individuals with dis­ abilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township. ORDAIN: Grow morel mushrooms A. • 413 of tho Zoning Ordinance of lhe Hastingsand jOjnt pjannjng Commission, presently pertaining xotic animals, is hereby amended to also address e©Pjng Of rajSjng oj |)ves»ock with new con­ tent fCC°9 9 the siting of a new of expanding commer­ cial live ^0(luction facility in any zoning district is controlh^^iuStato Q| Michigan pursuant to the effective pate/repeal This Ordinance shall tnke effect on lhe latter of; (1) 15 days after enactment by both the City and Township, or (2) the eighth day after publication of a notice of adoption of this Ordinance as required by law. provided, however, if a notice of intent to file a petition under MCL 125 3402 Is timely filed with respect to this Ordinance and/or if the right of referendum under applicable provisions of the charter of the City of Hastings is timely initiated, this Ordinance shall then only take effect as provided by applicable provisions of MCL 125 3402 and/or the City charter, or as otherwise provided by law. Robin Hawthorne. Charter Township of Rutland Jane Saurman, Clerk City of Hastings �Page fl - Thursday. April 16. 2020 - Tho Hasimgr. Banner f | "In some localities. the disease has^ a fl look back at the stories and columns on local history In the Hastings Banner dangerous epi(Je(Tiic, and it is safe to say there would have been no eoidemics in any places had proper precautionary measures been taken. There is nothing more ridicul0Us man to have a Board of Health wa^6 up and get busv and fight diseases by pa'sing measures after scores of persons are prostrated with sickness simply because they allowed the disease to get a foothold Every epidemic is the result of someone’s negligence.” TURNING / BflGK THE X PAGES Flu of 1918-19 widespread, made worse by other factors Kathy Maurer Copy Editor (Note: Much of the information from the Banner 1918 hw randomly collected during research on local soldiers in World War I. Articles or headlines regarding the flu may have shared a page with a war-related story, but were not copied in their entirety. These snippets were saved with thc intention of returning to the library to get full stories and additional details on the impact of the flu locally. However, with the library currently closed, the microfilmed papers are not accessible. But now seems to be a particularly appropriate time to look back on the 19/8-19 epidemic.) Pandemic, closures, deaths, cancellations and calls for more health care providers might fall in the category of buzzwords for 2020. Similar terms were common in lhe fall of 1918. when the second wave of what was referred to as Spanish influenza occurred. The Spanish flu pandemic was big news in the fall of 1918. but it wasn’t lhe biggest news. Top billing went to what was known as The Great War. The headline “Allies continue to sweep enemy from Belgium as foe lights to escape trap,” topped the front page of the Oct. 19, 1918. Grand Rapids Herald. Right below that was a secondary headline for the day: “Gov. Sleeper Issues Proclamation Closing State Because of Influenza Spread.” That was accompanied by an article headlined “Theaters. Churches and Lodges ordered closed up at once." If nothing else, a look back at the uncertainty of a pandemic more than a century ago might bring reassurance that Michiganders have faced an enemy more insidious than COVID19, and that this, loo, shall pass. Pennock Hospital was still in its fledgling years, and just 18 beds were available in its “new” facility at lhe Striker House on South Jefferson Street. Americans a century ago were far more self-reliant and didn’t need to. say, watch a video to learn how to make a loaf of bread. But, their husbands, sons and brothers were away. Food already was being rationed. Any T « I Motor Corps and Canteen volunteers from the Detroit chapter of the American Red Cross, take a break from delivering supplies to flu victims. To prepare Detroit for what was to come from the pandemic, the Red Cross and Department of Health nurses worked together to make home visits, prepare food and tend to children. (CDC.gov image) RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY. MICHIGAN NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING SPECIAL LAND USE SI IT. PLAN REVIEW 1U. JHL Ri SIDINIS AND J’ROPI RR OWN!-RS G|- [|IF (.HAR'lLR TOWNSHIP OJ R1 II AND, BARRY( Ol MY. MICHIGAN. AND ANY OTHER. IN I ERLSII D PERSONS: PI I AM. 1 AM NOTICE ih.il the Planning (.oxnmMon of the Charter lowiwhip of Rutland ';i I’ubUv u-gular incetin; on Wuttu-xday. May 6. 2020 at the Rutland Charter Iov-.Hiid H.iIL J :*>1 Huuh Road. HaMings, M?chir ceinmencin- r.t ~Jli»t>.nT as required under :hc provisnuh o; Vte Hwnstup Zoning Act nnd the Zoning Onlinaiu-e for the I ownship. PJ I A.M. TAKE I l.RIDl R NOHt E that tiu propped itum(s) to be ewuidered at this publie healin’.' tra-liM.- tl. lot’ v. in/. in 'Utnnnn. 1 Sp.viil Land ISite P. :n Review Application lor Parcel^ OS • H-OI4-UlH-3(lf tsq llay:-; ~ Leon Ihhc. auicnlh zoned Ml . M,xvd I- e Dstrkt. Property i> dewrik-d as RUH AND CH AR'ILR IOU N’SHIP COM. A[ [ I'-IPOSI SFC. LL 15N-R'»\\ nj \ OGDEG . E44-V. 47')] | IH N S^DEO24*4? \\ 2?| IKHTI ORPOB IHNEDDUi /•' 12 I .ilu! I I fl N 00 DEG 13'14” W IS|.5t»H AL E LI Of 20* E ASEMENT N IH S 80 DIO 24 42* Bl 73 tn I I 111 S G(» DIG 13 44” j 2 LI IIISN.9Dl.G24 42’ r OVbOi I ill S O’.) DIG I* 44 ‘ I 179 56Fl LOl’OB 2 S<Kh and nnth.-r .nutters .c may properly conn- h jbre tlx Pl.wnin.'; ( oin inKxi<ni. PI EASE 7AM i I RTJII R NOTICE th 4 thc Application for th Special I ’nd I ? Site pj-.n Rc.h > with the Z<.niug OtJinaruv / nin Map I and l - pi.-lfi. ...nd I -• Plan \|,p o' tiie l< muhip mrn be nnin.-d .it the Fowl .hip Hall ni any time duriiu- i< >ular biwinos houts .on except public nd ic-.i. hnlid ,y? from and aim tlj. ri.bhGdion of this Noike and until and .nchi.i'n , the day o! this public I ijrinj’. and m.n lutiher be i-x.uni’icd at the public hcarir.u tu di’icriiu'u! lhe ewi n.itutv of the .uonaicntioiad milk-; Yoo i.re < • :.-d to atl/rJ 04- Ji-canoy. il y.»u ate inuuk n» .mend, wutten xoiumcni< niav be nulled in h. t..:., pec.. -) d ar.pe.u.uh 1>? writini- :<j the lownship C kik al the Tourwhip ll.dl. .’•P.l |J f.: R -. .1 •! ;<!•!>. Mt 19OY< a! am iur.e up m |}.u d f.eoi h.-;.i;-. • ;ind n).r, Ik limber ic ‘icd by the Pian»; u.-. < a. n -ion raid public he.• ih:- :. . i n J i.i j>piiai:u’wdh PA .'<:7 ol m.-idci!(O( ’■ ' ' • • ; (»/ ;r;d Hu A>rj. . v ’u eiJities VUADM gi \!ccti|i}>A> tl. AR R'/ ji d t l.tm ii/wiuh’D -v;il j-i- vrdf i,....’ .;iy r-a.anuble a.ixih.irj aids and -.i-iii..?, •• I (-•! •.-!■:> • i;»1j'im-d and .nidii t’lp’. o' j'liiikd matcri.-.l•. beilU' eo;b.jdcred Ut the j’K.tii:-: to ’hull aiij; JLj>il»t • .4 lhe t.ic-ha • arm; u; .»u reasonable nonce lu the R : ( ic a f li".• ; t nil; InJisidu.d-. unh 'li>,.biiil\- • । ■.piicini' .luxilia x a:<j- uj • •.vice • !•’ . d I :;!>! ■'. ‘he i<> l:jJ!|l t.T. II! • fr.M; !',-[) Ckl’I. i’S • riDfl? I>! e.illi'C’ tile loun-lup Hastings Banner Oct. 17, 1918 extra resources were collected for the war effort and “our bov$;’ pvcn items as mundane as nut shells and pqc[, pRs were gathered to be turned into carbon for gas masks to arm soldiers fighting a new type of battle thousands of miles away. News of this new disease came in addition to worrisome headlines that had filled U.S. papers for a year and a half, covering every thing from advances and retreats on lhe front lines, military promotions, names of local men missing or killed overseas, calls for contributions to funding campaigns, and billions in federal bilk and loans. lhe Spanish flu,which later was identified as an H1N1 strain, began in the spring of 1918. allegedly, but didn’t develop into an epidemic until several months later. 1 he Oct. 10, 1918, Yale Expositor rejX)rted an increase in cases at Camp Custer in Battle Creek. “Medical corps are laboring night and day to relieve the suffering,’’ Many trained nurses arrive." Brig. Gen. Laubach’s request for 50 medical men from Washington turned down.” Camp Custer reported 4,000 Spanish influenza patients, representing 10 percent of the camp b> early October. Some 1,010 new cases were reported in a 24-hour period. “Paperwork at lhe base hospital is so far behind that little else than the names and organizations of the victims can be written down.” (Otho Hull. 31. of Middleville, and Merle Hinckley, 24, of NathiiHe, were among the local fatalities Oct. Ihitid 28. respectively, the Banner later reported.Olher Barry County soldiers died of the flu ^complications, such as pneumonia, at bases across the country , in Illinois. Texas. Arizona,New Jersey and New Mexico, as well as in England and France.) Fort Custer officials did their best, thc Expositor reported, to battle the new foe, one which they would later leam was particularly virulent among the young,healthy troops. Each regiment had cleared a barracks where men showing symptoms of lhe Spanish flu were taken to be cared for until they needed to be taken to the base hospital or its auxiliary wards. The camp at the time housed 40,000 men and was four miles from one side to another, according to the Expositor article. “The medical corps has been overworked, having labored night and day, and there are instances where the officers have fallen into a dead sleep sitting down,” the article read. “Brig. Gen Laubach’s request for 50 medical men was denied with thc explanation that the war department did not have the available physicians. "The general has, therefore, started making his own doctors, taking 300 enlisted men with some knowledge of nursing and giving them special courses in caring for the disease. They arc now being scattered in all regiments, relieving doctors and nurses needed at the base hospital. They will work nights, largely, giving the medical men an opportunity to snatch a little sleep and thus continue fit for duty.” Communities across the state were offering assistance, according to the Expositor article, "but thus far, the eanip administration is able to handle the epidemic without outsiders exposing themselves. Gen. Laubach considers that one of the biggcjt prob!ems is preventing the disease front spreading to adjacent communities. He js ho"ever’ ver>' appreciative of the fwc spirit shown by the state. Trained nur^s continue to arrive and are. of course, wcleoilied The number has gone from 90 to 133 wilhin two days." Closer to hontc the Hsings Banner announced Oct. 17 iqik frictions in place to “foreman po^ . As a precaution aminst a sP"-’811 ,hls ‘•tty Ot the influent, fCinic.tlw cit>' U(,ard Of Health met Satu^*,’ ft,rci>oon and passed a resolution that wem • , -fled Sunday noon lOct. 13| fn-m CV" dne a» vaudettes hnovi^* ‘X) and putdic cmee,i"8s ™ unilJ"X ba"- Nor. are congregations of ’’ j 5,nall or large groups Permissib^ke congregating of f^ons to play car<|s' " । als» >' prohibited. Hns measure is ”r| . -until the State “"•■rd Of Health sh ^"t nt il advisable to X-' ■« Ali ;ni-v-1. d pci.-n • :i:e i’.\ m.j !• bt pivsu’t :< f ».-.n!i..,n> ..;d sir’i’cMioii el ihr. public Ik-.tug R><n-' I I.VAll»i!<;e.. ' :. r\ R; hae-lc; k.w.hmp 7.161 h.-.,'L Rc.J tl.iM.’i.-.. \liv.‘:i>.in-(‘XU'S ?!9C . ........... »««♦> .... .'"'“’"2 Volunteers give a demonstration at the Red Cross Emergency Ambu nurses Washington, D.C. As the epidemic grew, the Red Cross put out cans ^Qclober 1918> and untrained volunteers to help at emergency centers, uo J ■ qqq doctors approved a $1 million budget for the national health system l • and more than 700 registered nurses. (CDC.gov image) arc not going to if the Board of Health can help it. l\vo had already died of lhe diseases and it was not known how many others had been exposed. The highest military' officials have been requesting slate authorities to close up everything, for lhe special protection of Camp Custer and the colleges and other places where men are being trained for the service. “In some localities, thc disease has been a dangerous epidemic, and it is safe to say there would have been no epidemics in any places had proper precautionary measures been taken. There is nothing more ridiculous than to have a Board of Health wake up and gel busy and fight diseases by passing measures after scores of persons arc prostrated with sickness simply because they allowed lhe disease to get a foothold. Every epidemic is thc result of someone’s negligence. “The City Board of Health decided it was better to be criticized for passing a precautionary measure than it was to have a censure, opprobrium and biller criticism of lhe entire community heaped upon it for negligence that might result in an epidemic. If there is an epidemic, it will not be because die board look no action to prevent it. In addition, they realize they were carrying out thc wishes of the War Department, and they believed that nearly everyone in the city would commend them for this fact alone and be willing to put up with any accompanying inconvenience or financial loss. "A copy of the board’s measure was furnished city authorities for use in preparing notifications to be served by the city marshal.” Thc board of health served lhe City of Hastings, only; lhe county-wide health department would be established several years later. The restrictions may have had an influence on local communities. Barry County reportedly saw a 5 percent increase in deaths from 1917 to 1918. Some 320 residents died in 1918 (177 males and 143 females). Both years, however, lhe tolal number of deaths in lhe county was above 300 — 305 in 1917 and 320 in 1918. In comparison, reported deaths in other years were: 280 in 1913.274 in 1914, 292 in 1915, 293 in 1919 and 277 in 1920. (Similar numbers for 1916 could not be located). Still, lhe deaths of otherwise healthy people were distressing, as the Banner Oct. 31, 1918. “There are 46 cases of influenza in this city, and some that have not yet been reported. 'l he influenza epidemic throughout the slate is lessening in some districts, and increasing in others. Its spread in Barry County has been steady, and every effort is being made to head it off. “In lhe vicinity of Dowling, there arc a number of serious cases. Isaac Powell, as is mentioned elsewhere, was a victim of it. Thursday evening, [Chalmer] Norris, son of George Norris, also died of it. Mrs. George (Donna (Shephard) Crakes], age 27 of Irving; Orville Pickens. 25, and John Reahni, 32, both prominent young men of Woodland, are also dead of pneumonia following illness of influenza.” Chalmer Norris, the only child of George and Etta (Bailey) Norris, was 25 when he died. He left behind his wife of seven years, the former Cleo Van Syckle. Dr. ILA. Adrounie of Bellevue was at the Norris home Oct. 21, 1918, the day the Norris’ youngest child, Theda Ione, was bom. Dr. Adrounie noted that he had cared for Chalmer that day. The doctor was back at lhe Norris home eight days later Oct. 29, when Chalmer died, and thc day after that, when baby Theda died. Her cause of death. Dr. Adrounie wrote, was “perhaps from Influenza, as the father^ mother, (and) all other members were suffering with il when she was bom.” A widow at age 25, Cleo had four other children, age 6 or under, to care lor — George Lynden, Lyle, Claud and Myrtle Eileen (the latter marrying F.iul Birman and dying in 2(X)4). Cleo remarried Arthur Covey and lived until 1967. As mentioned, Isaac Powell was featured in a separate article in that Oct. 31, 1918, issue. Former ball pitcher an influenza victim Isaac Powell, of Dowling, dies after brief illness “Base ball fans in Hastings, and rhe many acquaintances of Isaac Powell in the southern part of the county, were ’.’really shocked to Icam early in thc week of his death from influenza. Powell becumc ill Thursd.iy and passed away Sunday. “Burial services were conducted at Dowling Cemetery Tuesday. Rev. J.R. .Grcs°P^F-‘''ur •' of thc Hastings Methodist Episcopal Churcn. , officiating. _ “Powell resided on a farm near Dowling. His widow and four children survive. “Powell was formerly a base ball pitcher ot considerable note locally. He first came into prominence here as twirler tor the Hastings team in 1905 and again in 1906. With him in the box, the Hastings teams won many games. The interest in base ball, which finally resulted in the support of the first semi-pro teams for a period of two years, dates back to the time when Powell pitched winning ball for Hastings. “‘Ike" was one of lhe bcst-natured men who ever stepped into the local diamond. He seldom protested against the decisions of umpires, and he always smiled at decisions that made the other men say very unkind things. “He had a great speed, good curves and could have gone higher up if he had not preferred fanning and a home to base ball." ! • , . Spanish influenza also took the life of Baltimore Township resident Iza (Geiger) Frost, a 25-ycar-old teacher and wife of Ivor Frost. She died Oct. 9, 1918. Another death reported locally took place in Jackson County. Marvin Sheldon died in Jackson Oct. 22,'l918. The Oct. 31. 1918, Banner reported that his body had been . brought back to Barry' County for burial at . Lakeside Cemetery in Nashville.-“Mr. Sheldon spent his boyhood days in Nashville and later was a finisher in the Lentz table factory. At the lime of his death, he Was an employee of I lhe Stearns Furniture company of Jackson. He leaves a widow and two small children." “Grip Takes Big Toll” the Dec. 5, 1918, Banner announced in reporting statewide statistics for lhe month of October, which totaled 7,649. Of those, 2,451 were caused by influenza. Another 1,839 were due to pneumonia and bronchial pneumonia, “and il is likely many of these resulted from grip.” By comparison, 3.096 deaths were reported to the department of state for the month of August 1918, just five being attributed to influenza. Die Dec. 5, 1918, Banner also announced that new restrictions would be in order to help control spread of thc disea>e. “Board of Health adopts new method of handling situation,” read one of several headlines in that issue. “Rigid quarantine will be placed hereafter upon those suffering from influenza in Hastings, according to a decision of the city­ board of health at a special meeting Wednesday morning. This quarantine will be effective during a period ’at lhe discretion of the citv physician or board of health’ and will apply to all members ot the family ‘except heads of households or maintainers who may be released under conditions approved by th • city physician.’" ••The board also passed a measure prohibiting all unnecessary meetings unless sanctioned by the board of health “The question of handling the influenza snuatmn was one of the most difficult I’’" ’ vms that ever came before the board of health, and there was a ”re it <t«»-il • discussion that covered all phases lire cib nhv ",C bcr’C,hlKE “• preceding Wednesday. Monday Kc^ ,CC reported, and 16 cares 1 «wL for Wednesday had not Ire ' 1-q . L’1”."’' the meeting was held -^vul when ban that cl^ed by the ^ssons wl‘«« removed, and rigid quar-nu' ’"'g h®’ btf,:n all households where thev h H “'lab,isl,t-->-1 in "I- ^ulsodedd^ ,^’^11^ - managers to make inquiries wa” lac,or>’ and to ascertain in whose famT g c,"P><'> ves <he-Ilu.’ nosutamdres are cases of "lire board of health t • everything safeguard ih. ... Iris ’« do 'he same time to save as 11Callh-a,,d ■" as possible." ‘ lnc°nvcnience Tile IX-c. (J 19. quash rumors about the .......... ..... ....... .............. >o �Tho Hastings Banner — Thursday. April 16, 2020 — Page 9 ••For instance,one lady living several miles from lhlS u’u’Pb°ncd to one of our crchants and asked that some ^injd be scnl 10 unother post goods office she by "c know have kept at work when they ought to have got to their homes and gone to bed; and they would have done that but for their concern over their patients. It is no secret that the late Dr. Hyde came to his own fatal illness because of his efforts to give his professional aid to some of his old friends in the southwestern part of thc county, where it was almost impossible to gel a doctor, and so an appeal was made to Dr. Hyde, and he went at a time when his own condition warranted his going to bed himself instead of taking a 30-mile ride. “To be sure, the doctor makes a change for professional services as he must do. But over and above the pay question is thc doctor’s anxiety to help and to serve. And we owe the doctors of Hastings more than we can ever pay them for their work during the ‘flu’ epidemic, now apparently yielding to their pos* ’because.’ she said. ‘I understand ^\t the flu >s 50 in Hastings that passengers 'jre not pernutted to gel on or off the trains tbeni’” Doctors were commended for “doing good work in epidemic;’ according to the Dec. 26, j918.B<mncr »Thc Banner wonders if we all appreciate the work the doctors have been doing through the influenza epidemic. It has been a very strenuous time for them. For all of them, it has meant great anxiety, very little rest night or dav; and for those who could go into the -o’untry. long and tedious drives over rough ^ads/often in stormy nights. Some of them Be A Nurse ______ ______ • ; __ J; » Earn $15 to $25 per week Tnou'uiDds are taking up this congenial respected vocation. Otters unusual socuilndvantaRcs. Excellent income. Any woman of 18-or over can Icara-under our simple, perfected system. LEARN AT HOME Our system founded 1902 Is endorsed by lead in ft physicinns. Dr. Perkins, thc founder, will personally instruct you, assures thorough’ training yet saves a lot of time. Low tuition: .‘’mall monthly payments. Send for 32 lesson pages and larse illu-itrnted catalog today— AU. FREE u pohrwtrd. Write now. Dopt.,14. CHICAGO SCHOOL OF NURSING 116 South Michigan Boulevard, Chicago Since many nurses had been sent overseas to take care of soldiers in World War I, they were in short supply. As the flu spread, the need for nurses intensified. This advertisement was placed on behalf of lhe Chicago School of Nursing. (CDC.gov image) conuvLWy* have rcCC1Vt > «r ok y havc work“ito work.iv |0 |M' »»n welfare and was 55 when h<J pppald Mq(.. A fellow doc|0f’ 10 his »ifc attending P'-Jf j cd D™; 20 of’inn^ WhCn deaths in April 19I9 (41) and again in February 1920 (47). October 1920 had 11 reported deaths in the county, thc lowest monthly total in several years. Finally, it secms, residents could rest a little easier and get back to normal daily life. . , “ ,h' of just 4 days “(918 flu c.^ of a COn’inucd into 19?9Kn on'«sP<.in'l^ Assyria Township fcliHU as -he Powers of Bottle C^old tanner l*Pnn'^. . «' >o the 30-yearAftcr ,wo however. Phillips ,jppin^ . (Note: random t >PP IP from the 1919 B„n,ur are not And few bits of flu-related l°ta s were found C1 State newspap615 ’hat the spread of the disease “S'*“•«>• The Jan. 10. 1 •'*’<!« Democrat had a snippet in its st* . news column. “Hastings — The st I quarantine here is so successful in ’he number of influenza cases in Hast gs that the board of health will remove n I bans on public gatherings and schools a a meeting Tuesday. An unrclaxing qumuntme unjcr observation of special police will be maintained.’’ But that apparently di jniast. Two months later, restrictions were backin p|acc. The Leelenau Enterprise reported newenforcement in its state news roundup March 6. 1919. "Hastings — Influenza cases have again become so numerous in Hastings that the board of health has ordered strict quarantine." Or. was this just another nimor? State records show a spike in Barry County Tuberculosis brought new threat after flu subsided The Dec. 21. 1918, Kalamazoo Augustinian reported that the Red Cross was joining forces with the National Tuberculosis Association. "Besides the special work conducted by hundreds of Red Cross Chapters throughout the country in checking the recent epidemic of Spanish Influenza, thc organization through its headquarters at Washington is preparing to fight a repetition of thc experience that was so disastrous this fall, educating the public thoroughly regarding the symptoms and the proper care at the beginning of an attack. "In addition to this, thc American Red Cross is fighting tuberculosis. The recent appropriation to the National Tuberculosis Association will be used for educational as well as relief work throughout the country. "So much has been said about the aftermath of the epidemic that especial attention is being given to the work along this line. The weakness that follows influenza leaves the patient in a condition that makes him a good field for the germs of tuberculosis. A thorough physical examination, proper food and clothing and use of mild preventives will check the progress of lhe disease at once. "Tuberculosis, or consumption, as it is frequently called, is both preventable and curable, provided the treatment of the disease is begun before it is too far advanced. "Medicine plays a comparatively small part. The frequently advertised "consumption cures’’ should be looked upon as poison. ’Hie only medicine that should be taken is a good tonic which will stimulate the appetite and build up the system generally. “The main cure lies in proper food, sufficient rest, fresh air and sunlight, and living, if possible, according to the plan prescribed by a good physician. This renews the patient’s vitality and soon kills the disease entirely. "For several years, the National Tuberculosis Association has been financing its work by the sale ol Red Cross seals at Christmastime. The seals re sold for a penny each, and by making a concerted effort, enough money was usuallj raised to carry the work through the year. This year no seals will be sold because the American Red Cross has made an appropriation for the anti­ tuberculosis work, and/^se who formerly spent their time selling seals will join in the work for the Red Crojs Christmas Roll Call during the week of Dec. 16 to 23.’’ Although tuberculosis has not been totally eradicated today, vaccinations given to infants and young children have greatly diminished its presence - one more thing people in 1918 faced that isn’t a widespread fear amid COVID-19. CDC 1918 flu facts a century later Staff at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control compiled statistics for the 100’*1 anniversary of the flu pandemic that swept the globe in 1918 and 1919: - The first outbreak of flu-like illnesses was detected in lhe U.S. in March, with more than 100 cases reported at Camp Funston in Fort Riley, Kansas. Within a week, the number of flu cases quintupled. - There were three different waves of illness during the pandemic, starting in March 1918 and subsiding by summer of 1919. The pandemic peaked in the U.S. during the second wave, in the fall of 1918. This highly fatal second wave was responsible for most of the U.S. deaths .attributed to the pandemic. A third wzave of illness occurred during the winter and spring of 1919. adding to the pandemic death loll. - More people died during thc 1918 pandemic than the total number of military and civilian deaths that resulted from World War I. - Hundreds and thousands of U.S. soldiers were deployed across the Atlantic in 1918. The mass troop movement contributed to the global spread of flu. Similar crowded conditions troop movements during the war likely contributed to the spread of (he virus around the world. - Many health professionals served in the U. S. military during World War I. resulting in shortages of medical personnel around the U.S. - The economy suffered as businesses and factories were forced to close due to sickness amongst workers. • Mortality was high in people younger ’han 5 years old, those 20 to 40 years old. and year, and older. lhe high mortality in healthy people, including those in the 20- to 40-year age group, was a unique feature of ’his pandemic. While the 1918 H1NI virus has been thoroughly studied and evaluated, ’hc properties that made it so devastating are not well understood. With no vaccine to P^cct against influenza infection and no ^ttibioiics to treat secondary bacterial infections associated w ith influenza infections, c°ntrol efforts worldwide were limited to n°n-pharmaceutical interventions, such as ’Matioi), quarantine, good personal hygiene. use of disinfectants, and limitations of public developed. For example, penicillin was not discovered until 1928. Likewise, no flu gatherings, which were applied unevenly. - An estimated one-third of the world’s antiviral drugs were available. Critical care population was infected with thc 1918 flu measures, such as intensive care support and virus - resulting in at least 50 million deaths mechanical ventilation also were not available worldwide. m 1918. Doctors were left with few treatment - The pandemic virus killed an estimated options other than supportive care. 195,000 Americans in October 1918, alone. ■ In terms of national, state and local - Nearly every adult in the tiny village of pandemic planning, no coordinated pandemic Brevig Mission, Alaska, died as a result of the plans existed in 1918. Some cities managed to flu. In just five days, Nov. 15-20, 1918, the implement community mitigation measures. pandemic claimed the lives of 72 of the Sl,ch as closing schools, banning public villages’ 80 adult inhabitants. Today, fewer gatherings, and issuing isolation or quarantine than 400 people live there, and scientists still orders, but the federal government had no do not know how thc disease reached the centralized role in helping to plan or initiate remote settlement nor why it was so virulent these interventions during the 1918 pandemic. there. ■ An estimated 500 million people, or one- 'The pandemic lowered the average life third of the world’s population, became expectancy in thc U.S. by more than 12 years. infected with this virus. Hie number of deaths A comparable death rate has not been observed was estimated to be at least 50 million during any of the known flu seasons or worldwide with about 675,000 occurring in pandemics that have occurred cither prior to ’he United States. The high mortality in or following the 1918 pandemic. healthy people, including (hose in the 20- to - Since 1918, the world has experienced 40-ycar age group. was a unique feature of three additional pandemics, in 1957,1968 and this pandemic. 2009. Thcsubscquent pandemics were less severe and caused considerably [justness Services lower mortality rates than the fSale i——W 1918 pandemic. CARRON SPORT AIR bells construction- Influenza vaccines did not Hockey Table. $300.00 OBO. 18 year* experience. Dry exist at lhe time, and even Phone 269-%8-1654. wall/ painting, flooring, antibiotics had not been trim, home improvements. KASSON 10FV OAK Pool Table, excellent condition. Discount for Seniors & VetPUBLISHER’S NOTICE; $1,000.1X1 or OBO. 269-908­ enins^hJ^SVi). AU fcjl c’.fiic adven»utf in th»» 1654 _____________ MATI ENDSLEY, FABRI­ sp-pct is sub/Xt to tht | a,t HiH»’.:r.g Au a-J <hr M.Uvpn C,u| A(l CATION and repair, custom FOR SALE5500 wait Gen ­ »,hi.h coll«vth«ly mis it fehvrtitf “any prefcrcnw. Iinutatam <it trai1crs',, bale spears, erator, $350.00.269-945-2894, diaiinur.Jiion based iw rate, cx>kv. etc £j!L22jO4-75Q6. 269-953-0177. irlipi*. xx. luMuap laratha! Hafw. iut> ><'-4 Jr’e usul.al Matus, t>r UUVING ALL hard. an irwntka. to oukc any \VOOL> j- >Va|nU( White fxtftt. isoe.lufi'WiniW d:Krtn>ttutio<i," l-jniilu! ttuftit inJudct ihilJrtn un.kr Oak. Tu ”P Poplar. Call (or DELTON,MICHIGAN- SE­ the sje NIOR Subsidized housing pricing- vyll buy single Wal­ tctunnjr cuuixlj <>f chlJ'tn u/xter |tf (or people who are 62-years nut trtes. tnsUrvdf UabUUy & lint ixnjjMpei will nx for te,'. c%utr and older with certain in­ wOrkman s coinp. Fetterley wh tti i> in Motaucn irf lhe hu Owr 18-779.3. come restrictions. 1-bed­ Logfi,n*;' irukn err ix/rh) i>J.vmcd lU< jJurti'ed in <hix txuipjpcr room apartments available. tir on an opx! Non-smoking, secured fa­ BANNER l I» ftp ’rt <tiHiinn/u!i«n c»lf ih»cility Close to downtown SUB5CRIHrl°NS are »j./ H- ;• •”* ( '-t ?*/((! I !it HI n • Hl f't: ’‘••’i-rS ■:« Center for Delton. Call (or more in­ avail‘d’or $35 pej, f in ■ ---------- .. imirrd n I HO-9.»7 V’?5 formation at 2o9-623-40l)0 Barry t°unty. CaIt (269) or 1TY National Relay 711. Equal I lousing Opportunity. Sources: Hastings Banner, migeHweh.org/ harry, familysearch.org, findagrave.com, Google Books, US. Centers for Disease Control, Michiganologyrom. digmichnews. cmich.edu, chroniclingamerica.com. Yale Expositor Lcelcnau Enterprise, Cheboygan Democrat and the Grand Rapids Herald. LEGAL NOTICES SYNOPSIS Electronically Held Meetings Public Hearing Budget March 31,2020 Meeting called to order 7:15 All board members present and 3 guests Public comment: none Motion adopted 2020-2021 budget Resolution it 042020-1 adopted Board comment Motion to adjourn 7:32 pm Orangeville Township Board Meeting April 7,2020 Meeting called to order 7 pm All board members present and 4 guests Motion adopted Resolution 042020-2 Motion carried paying of the bills Motion carried Fire Dept. Renewal Millage Ballot Language Department Reports Public Comment None Board comment Motion to adjourn 7:26 pm Submitted by: Mel Risner/Clcrk Attested to by: Tom Rook/Supervisor 140147 Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have boon ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for tho party foreclosing tho mortgage at tho telephone number stated In this notice. Notice of foreclosure by advertisement. Notice Is given under section 3212 of tho revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that tho following mortgage will bo foreclosed by a salo of tho mortgaged premises, or somo part of them, at a public auction salo to the highest bidder for cash or cashier s check at tho place of holding tho circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM on MAY 21,2020. Tho amount duo on the mortgage may be greater on tho day of tho sale. Placing the highest bld at the salo does not automatically entitle the purchaser to froo and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact tho county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may Chang® a foo for this information. Default has been made in tho conditions of a mortgage made by Carol Jean Risnor, surviving spouso, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems. Inc., as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/or assigns. Mortgagee, dated October 4, 2006 and recorded October 18, 2006 in Instrument Number 1171615 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee, on behalf of the holders of the J.P. Morgan Mortgage Acquisition Trust 2007-HE1 Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2007-HE1, by assignment. There is claimed to bo duo at tho date hereof tho sum of Sixty-Seven Thousand Six Hundred Eighty-Four and 66/100 Dollars ($67,684.66). Under tno power of sale contained In said mortgage and the statute In such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will be foreclosed by a salo of the mortgaged premises, or somo part of them, at public vendue at tho place of holding tho circuit court within Barry County, Michigan at 1:00 PM on MAY 21,2020. Said premises are located In tho Township of Orangeville, Barry County Michigan, and are described as: PARCEL 1: LOT 39 OF LAPHAMS AIRPORT LOTS. BEING A PART OF SECTION 8, TOWN 2 NORTH. RANGE 10 WEST. ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN THE OFFICE OF REGISTER OF DEEDS FOR BARRY COUNTY. PARCEL 2: LOT 57 AND THE NORTH 14 FEET OF LOT 40 OF LAPHAM’S AIRPORT LOTS ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLATS THEREOF, BEING PART OF THE WEST 1/2 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 8, AND PART OF THE WEST 1/2 OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 8, TOWN 2 NORTH. RANGE 10 WEST. ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN. 5797 Marsh Road. Shelbyville. Michigan 49344 Tho redemption period shall bo 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned In accordance with MCLA §600.3241 a. In which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from tho date of such sale. If tho property is sold at foreclosure sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278. the borrower will bo held responsible to tho person who buys the property at tho mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damage to the property during the redemption period. Dated: April 2.2020 Ale No. 20-003617 Firm Name: Odans PC Firm Address: 1650 West Big Beaver Road. Troy Ml 48084 Firm Phone Number (248) 502.1400 (04-02)(04-23) nne.-rei 139676 NOTICE Daniel J. Sweda & Associates, PLLC 21650 West Eleven Mile Road, Ste. 200, Southfield Ml 4B076. Attorneys. THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY OR HAVE BEEN IN THE PRIOR YEAR. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT 246-973-8737. Attention homeowner: If you are a m'Ktary service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing tho mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE BY ADVERTISEMENT -Default has been made in tho conditions of a Mortgage granted by Stanley S. Lawrenco and Linda K. Lawrence, husband and wife, original mortgagors), to Associates Homo Equity Services, Inc., as mortgagee, dated September 11. 2000 and recorded on September 21, 2000 In Liber Instrument No. 1049805 Page 1, Barry County Records, Ml, and assigned by an assignment of mortgage to AJ Capital Ventures LLC, as assignee, as documented by an assignment of mortgage recorded on May 30,2019, In Instrument Number 2019-005191. Barry County Records. Ml, on which mortgage there is claimed to be due as the date hereof Ninety Nine Thousand Nine Hundred Thirty Four and 77/100 Dollars ($99, 934.77), plus interest, late fees, and attorney’s fees, each of which continues to accrue. Under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and the statute in such case made and provided, notice is hereby given that said mortgage will bo foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or somo part of them. Notice of foreclosure by advertisement. Notice Is hereby given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236. MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding at the circuit court In Barry County. Ml starting promptly at 01:00 PM on April 23,2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater than the date of the sale. Placing the highest bld at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title Insurance company either of which may charge a fee for this information. Said premises are located In Barry County, City of Battle Creek, State of Michigan, and are described as follows: A parcel of land in the Southeast % of Section 34, Town 1 North. Range 8 West, described as: Beginning at a point in the center line of State Highway M-37, which point is 27 rods North along tho center line of said Highway from the South line of said Section 34; thence East 493 feet; thence North 2 degrees 52 minutes East 99.1 feet; thence West 494.5 feet to the center line of said highway; thence South along center Imo of said highway to tho place of beginning. Property Address: 15895 South M-37 Hwy., Battle Creok, Ml 49017 Tax ID 09-034-012-00 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of sale, unloss determined abandoned In accordance with MCLA 600.3241a. In which case tho redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale or 15 days from the MCLA 600.3241a(b) notice, whichever is later or extinguished pursuant to MCLA 600.3238. If the above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCL 600.3278, the borrower will be responsible to tho person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging tho property during the redemption period. TO ALL PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any. shall be limited solely to tho return of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus interest. The purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney. AJ Capital Ventures LLC Dated March 23, 2020. Daniel J. Swoda & Associates, PLLC. Attorneys for Mortgagee/Asslgnee. 21650 West Eleven Mile Road, Ste. 200, Southfield Ml 48076. Phone 248­ 937-8737. 139476 (03-26)(04-16) Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads CITY OF HASTINGS PUBLIC NOTICE ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 586 The undersigned, being the duly qualified and acting Clerk of the City of Hastings, Michigan, does hereby certify that ORDINANCE NO. 586: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND DIVISION 82-IIM OF THE CITY’S CODE OF ORDINANCES TO REQUIRE CONNECTIONS TO THE PUBLIC WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM AND TO REGULATE THE USE OF PRIVATE WELLS. was adopted by the City Council of the City of Hastings at a regular meeting on the 13th day of April, 2020 as an emergency ordinance to go into effect immediately. A complete copy of this Ordinance is available for review any time on our website at www.hastingsmi.org. Jane M. Saurman City Clerk 140130 �Transparent ways to lift spirits Thornapple Manor residents and their family members and fnenas have found ways to connect w each other, in spite ol a Maron s restriction that won t allo** ' dents to have any visitors. (Ph • provided) ttlHTHliii Painted notes on the windows cheer up residents of lhe facility. 7 hose visual connections are spirits during the pandemic. Family and friends painted windows with tieartfelt messages for residents to see if they go outside to got some welcome sunshine in the courtyard. □ ears Some of the bright artwork rivals colorful spring flowers. POLICE CASES, continued from page 1 Delton Kellogg Elementary Principal Karmin Bourdo calls ahead to announce another family ready to pick up supplies from lhe school Tuesday morning. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Aubrey Jones’ eyes widen as she sees tier family's bag with a Chromebook and school supplies brought to their car door during the first of two technology pick-up days at Delton Kellogg Elementary School Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) have been allowed to begin since shutting Spt.-rh Editor down face-to-face learning on March 13. On a regular day. holding the door for a Families with last names beginning with A-K. classmate with an instrument case in each were scheduled to pick up Chromebooks. hand would be an act of chivalry. learning materials and other items from school There would be nothing disheartening buildings Tuesday and L-Z distribution was about teenage friends who haven’t seen each planned for Wednesday. other in a month hugging in the school park­ "We have consumables for students: math journals, science journals, writing folders, ing lot. These aren’t regular days .is students, fam­ reading books, anything that is consumable ilies and school districts continue to deal with that w ill be purchased every year is in there,” continuing education in the time ol the Bourdo said. "All their devices. iPads, char­ COVID-19 coronavirus. If Delton Kellogg gers. Chromebooks, chargers are in there.” pre-schooler Aubrey Jones, who rolled Delton also was distributing kindergarten through thc pick up line at Delton Kellogg enrollment paperwork Tuesday, and returning Elementary Tuesday morning.could wave her personal items left at thc school like water new magic wand raid tvturn everything to bottles and Ixi.xcs of crayons normal, she would "Some teachers wrote notes, ’wc miss you.’ “it’s not real.” Aubrey said ot her new ” Bounin said. wand though. Jones, a member of Michelle Blackburn’s For the mosl part. Delton Kellogg High preschool class, got a cup w ith some summer School students k<pi their dishiiKc as they squash seeds to grow at home from her teach­ streamed in and nut of thc irn.’h school doors er. Shu was riding along with her mother, Tuesday. They were there to pick up Samantha Jones, to collect school items lor Chromubu >1 «. o»jj.-me$s,on hold in the office, her fouith-grade brother Ayden Jones as well. as well as any other needed items left in lock A)den was home in pajamas like man) stu­ < r< throughout thr buildiric- Band instruments dents Tuesday. and Hag* were among. the in-ms being collect­ I he Joneses have been doing what they can ed lor at-home learning, too at home. Samantha said she has been focusing Faw covering were tew and i.*r be tween on creative things, doing some stuff outside Many look the time to w. • .♦ or ih.jl though and working on crafts. Aubrey’s favorite proj open cur window . on :!)•• sunny, but chilly. vet so far was making a magic wand. Tuesday rnorniin* “(I he school) has been handing out packets School employer1 were the only ones when the) do the fixxl drops or pick-ups," entering and exiting the building mow the Samantha said. "We’ve been doing the pack­ •xT.ool ground- at Duhon Krlh.eg Elementary. ets. 1 hat k pretty much it so far since we Principal Karmin Bom do lhe head ol a h.o.-n t had his computer Now (Ayden) will receiving line much el lhe morning, identify bu able to do things like Spelling City and in:: families m automobiles .-.nd radioing Zoom. Wc have had some Zoom meetings. ahead l< let sial) kn»>w which bagsol comput­ ’ I he teachers have been doing a lol. er cquipm< rd and le- son plat: Io deliver fo Everyone thinks that (his has been a bleak lot cars in the pie) up lane * i:i tnzm. them, but it is not. h is so much extra lor Schooling will ix*gin ayam in lull force for them.” Delton hulkr:;' rtudefit- and i.di Monday. Driton I.lumvnt-.'i) is going to be providing Aprd ’0. the first new msloKtion -ulvtofs classwork through the Seesaw and Google Classroom platforms on-line according to Bourdo. Distributing Chromebooks and iPads will help families in the district take advan­ tage of the on-line learning opportunities, The plan i.s also to deliver computers to families in need who were unable to attend lhe two morn­ ing distribution sessions this week. A large portion of thc district can’t take advantage of the technology being distributed, however, because of a lack of high-speed internet. There will lx» work packets for those who cannot get online. “Barry County Community Foundation has ottered money for families that do not have Wi-Fi, so we arc asking parents that cannot get connected through their phone company, their mobile phone company, or through MEI to contact us, and we’re going to try to work with MEI or the local phone company. Verizon or whatever to get hotspots so everybody is connected.” Bourdo said. “Wc know right now 25 percent of oUr families, based on our survey, arc not connected. We’re going to to gel those families connected.” Delton Kellogg Schools Superintendent Kyle Corlelt was back and forth taiwecn buildings Tuesday. He informed Bourdo that thc plan is lor schoolbus drivers t0 deliver work packets to families that cannot get the school work online. Bourdo hopes that the bus drivers also will lx- able to collect the finished work and return il to school for qlos^. families. "We’re trying to redeploy paraph, bus drivers and things like that and put :,s inailv jx’oplc to woik to support our students as w . can Without breaking the governor’s Vxecu live older. Bourdo .said, "there is a )0| . work horn home and things like that.” Hie goal of the bl|s> days at t|k. SV|RR)1 buddings fuesday and Wednesday is- lo UVc thv students a v|Uj|R.e lo sunk a( home, too. , P‘ck UP ions ran horn K a.m. to IRHM1 each day. masks only once before throwing them away. Now they have changed (he guidelines to rec­ ommend wearing lhe masks up to five days in a row before swapping them but. Pratt said it is a continual discussion on how io shift and stay up to date on officer safety measures. "It’s our life right now." Pratt said Hastings officers use masks, gloves and face shields when they believe it is necessary, but the department may change to requiring officers to wear masks and gloves whenever they are in public. Pratt said. "Our mask supply is extremely low.” Barry County Sheriff’s Office Lieutenant Jay Olejniczak said. The sheriff’s office does have access to full body suits; the city police department current­ ly docs not. Olejniczak said lhe suits are used when responding to a death investigation. But. because these suits cover head to toe. officers can't access any of the gear on their belts and vests while they are wearing them. Deputies have not knowingly come into contact with anyone who has tested positive. Olejniczak said ’Tuesday, but they are still taking precautions. The sheriff’s office quarantined one deputy who came into contact with someone exhibit­ ing sy mptoms similar to COVID-19. “We treat everybody as if they are diag­ nosed with COVID,” Olejniczak said. Officers are handling as many calls as pos­ sible over the phone. If they have to physical­ ly go anywhere, they conduct interviews out­ side whenever possible. “We leave it up to our officers because every circumstance is different, Olejniczak said. Barry County sheriffs deputies have access to Tyvek full-body suits, if they need them, to cover them from head to toe. (Photo provided) Water’s Edge Financial LLC Jeffrey A. Keessen, AIF11(269) 948-9969 525 W. Apple St. Hastings, MI 49058 www.watersedgefinancial.coni Taking care of what's important to you that you can focus on what matters most to Mhvi V. Ktcxu VIP you I'itum a!. .Member 1 INKA MI’C Call for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 �The HasPngq Banner — Thursday, Apr.) 16. 2020 -•- Pago 11 __ g-5—Winter^H-Barry Oourvty Cheerleaders add to conference and state honors ■ • Grace Roth Alayna Vazquez Brett Bremer Sports Editor The state’s competitive cheer teams were able to complete the 2019-2020 winter sea­ son, and the Barry County varsity competitive cheer teams were some of the best around once again. The Lakewood varsity competitive cheer team kept its undefeated Greater Lansing Activities Conference streak going by win­ ning another conference championship. The Thomapple Kellogg girls got back on top of lhe OK Gold/Green Conference this winter. Hastings, Delton Kellogg and Maple Valley were all among the top few' teams in their conferences as well, with the Saxons being narrowly edged by Pennfield for thc Interstate-8 zXthletic Conference champion­ ship. Lakewood, Thomapple Kellogg, Hastings and Delton Kellogg all reached the regional round of the state tournament. Thc Maple Valley girls were just short of getting through districts. Lakewood in Division 3 and Hastings and Thomapple Kellogg in Division 2 all had top ten regional finishes, but came up shy of the ultimate goal of reaching the state finals this season. Along the way many girls perfected old skills or picked up new ones, updated perfor­ mances on the fly. fell down, got back up and kept right on cheering. Here are the 2019­ 2020 All-Barry County Competitive Cheer First and Second Teams. 2019-20 All-Barry County Competitive Cheer First Team Anna Benedict, Thornapple Kellogg: Benedict earned all-conference honors com­ peting in all three rounds throughout the sea­ son for the Trojans. Benedict was also a first team all-district selection this year in Division 2. Kelsey Campbell, Delton Kellogg: A soph­ omore in all three rounds for Delton Kellogg this winter. She capped off each DK perfor­ mance as a tumbler in round three. In her second varsity season, Campbell was named first team all-conference in the SMCCC, first team all-district in Division 4 and honorable mention all-region. Coach Zoe Reynolds calls her a tough kid who is a hard worker that is very dedicated to learning new skills. Elizabeth Colyer. Maple Valley: A senior in her fourth varsity season with the Lions, Colyer was a first team all-conference cheer­ leader in the GLAC, was named first team all-district and earned her fourth individual academic all-state award. “Elizabeth is a confident and talented cheerleader who gives her best in every round.” coach Sarah Huissen said. “She is our center for our round one and round two for her enthusiastic facial expressions as well as her level jumps. She has nice flexibility and advanced gymnastic skills which also has helped her team be successful this season.” Riley Hall, Thomapple Kellogg: A senior Flyer, Hall capped her career by earning sec­ ond team all-district honors in Division 2. Hall was an all-conference cheerleader in the OK Gold/Green this winter. Jessalyn Hawkins, Lakewood: A junior flyer, Hawkins is a three-year varsity cheer­ leader for the Vikings. Hawkins was named first team all-confer­ ence in the GLAC this winter as well as first team all-district in Division 3. She also earned academic all-state honors. Hokulani Kaalakea, Lakewood: A sopho­ more in her second varsity cheer season, Kaalakea was an important base for the Vikings. She was named first team all-conference in die GLAC this winter and first team all-dis­ trict. Savana Leonard, Hastings: A three-year varsity cheerleader as a junior, Leonard com­ peted in all three rounds all season for the Saxons. She was named second team all-region in Division 2 after earning first team all-district and all-conference awards. Maggie Nedbalek, Hastings: A junior who competed in all three rounds for thc Saxon varsity team. Nedbalek was named first team all-district and all-conference in the Jnterstate-8 Athletic Conference at the end of thc year. Morgan Neff, Lakewood: A four-year var­ sity senior, Neff earned academic all-state this winter while performing as a flyer for lhe Vikings in round three. Neff was named fiyt team all-conference in lhe GLAC, first team all-district and was a second team all-region honoree in Division 3. Grace Roth, Lakewood: A four-year varsity senior for the Lakewood competitive cheer team, Roth was once again one of the top flyers around. Roth was named first team all-conference, first team all-district and honorable mention all-region in Division 3. Sh also earned aca­ demic all-state honors this winter. Liberty Tetzlaff, Thomapple Kellogg: Tetzlaff capped off her junior season by earn­ ing a spot on the Division 2 all-district team. Tetzlaff was an all-conference honoree this season in the OK Gold/Green. Alayna Vazquez, Hastings: One of the Saxons’ senior captains, Vazquez competed in all three rounds all season earning second team all-region honors at lhe end of the year. Vazquez was also honored as a first team all-district cheerleader in Division 2 and an all-conference athlete in the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference. 2019-20 All-Barry County Competitive Cheer Second Team Shannon Brown, Hastings: A senior captain for lhe Saxons, Brown competed in all three rounds throughout most of the season until an injury limited her a bit in the Saxons’ state tournament run. Brown was named all-conference in the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference this winter. VICTIM, continued from page 1 nine new drive-through testing locations and expansion of three existing centers where residents can be tested for COVID-19 without leaving their vehicles, plus additional testing at a location yet-to-be-determined in Detroit. A new commercial laboratory in Grand Rapids can run upwards of 3.0CX) tests per day, which would increase Michigan’s aver­ age number of results every day by about 40 percent. “The State of Michigan is working with our healthcare partners to step up COVID-19 test­ ing,” Whitmer said. “Better access to testing and quicker results are critical to our public health officials who are fighting coronavirus and to our residents who have symptoms of COVID-19 and need answers, treatment and peace of mind. “More testing will save lives.” Additional site details are in progress and will be announced soon. T he slate Department of Health and Human Services announced this week that it is expanding testing criteria lor COVID-19 will include individuals with mild symptoms. "Expanded testing is needed to learn more about how COV1D-I9 is spreading in our state,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medi­ cal executive and chief deputy lor health. “We want to make sure people know that if they have symptoms, they should work with their medical provider to Ik tested.” Michigan’s testing priority criteria now' includes: Hospitalized patients, symptomatic healthcare workers, patients in congregate facilities with symptoms, including those al long-term care or elder-living facilities, jails or prisons, homeless shelters, residential fos­ ter care facilities, other group living settings patients age 65 and older with symptoms’ patients with underlying conditions with symptoms, first responders with symptoms and critical infrastructure workers with symntoms r Individuals who experience symptoms of COVID-19, such as fever, cough or shortness of breath, should contact their health care provider, 24/7 nurse hotline or lelehealth pro­ gram provided by their insurance carrier or employer to discuss whether to be evaluated for testing. Each coronavirus test provider wifi deter­ mine if testing is appropriate, based on symp­ toms and test availability in their area. Drive-through testing locations in and around Barry and Eaton counties opened April 13. ' People must meet Michigan’s coronavirus testing priority criteria to be tested at these sites. They should first call the site’s patient screening telephone line or their health care provider if they are seeking to be tested. The sites are: Battle Creek; Grace Health. 1XJ W. Emmett St., 269-441-3463 Grand Rapids: Cherry Health, 200 Sheldon Street SE, 616-965-8347 Jackson: Center for Family Health, 505 N. Jackson St., 517-748-5363 Kalamazoo: Family Health Center, 117 W Paterson St., 269-488-0804 Lansing: Ingham Community Health Centers, 2316 S. Cedar St., 517-887-4517 The three counties of metro Detroit still comprise the majority of the slate’s cases: Wayne, outside of Detroit (5.4Q8 confirmed coronavirus cases, rising from 5^05), Oakland (5,576, up from 5364) and Macomb 0,792, up from 3,620) colics, according to tlic state Department of Health and Human Services Wednesday. Michigan currently ranks 27th in the nation for number of residents tested per capjla Women arc 54 percent of confinned coronavirus cases but just 43 percent of the fatalities. About 40 pc*cnt the confirmed cases are in people younger tlKln sq governor’s office said Wednesday that members of the 110lh Civil Gngine<.rinl, Squadron from Battle Creek Air Naliollil| Ituanl Base will be assisting •'>pan.ow Ho iwl *“h lhe construction of » Urge medical screenmg tent as part 0 ’’’•Ute's ongoing rtsPonse to the coronavin1 Pandemic. Kelsey Campbell Savannah Chilton, Delton Kellogg*. A junior in all three rounds for DK this winter, she had to fight her way back from injury and capped off the season by winning first team all-dis­ trict honors in Division 4. Coach Reynolds calls Chilton a great tum­ bler who was also a main base for her team in round three. Aiden Clarkin, Lakewood: A senior in her first varsity season with lhe Vikings, Clarkin took over a back spot place for the team in round three. She was named first team all-conference in the GLAC and was a first team all-district honoree in Division 3. Austynn Fears, Maple Valley: A senior in her fourth varsity season cheering for lhe Lions, Fears was named honorable mention all-conference in the GLAC and also earned a second team all-district nod in Division 4. “Austynn is a great cheerleader with beau­ tiful jumps,” coach Huissen said. “She is our main base in our round three, but also did a little flying this season as well. She also has advance gymnastic skills which has helped her team be successful this season.” Keirra Halloran. Delton Kellogg: One of a few talented freshmen for lhe Panthers this winter, Halloran was in all three rounds for the Panthers. She was a flyer in her first var­ sity season. Coach Reynolds called Halloran a huge asset to her team, who showed a great work ethic and has huge potential for the next three years. Casey Hoyle, Maple Valley: A senior in her fourth varsity cheer season with lhe Lions, she was named second team all-conference in thc GLAC and second team all-district in Division 4 this winter. “Casey is our most determined cheerleader and works hard to give her absolute best in every round,” coach Huissen said. “She has a nice loud voice and is powerful base in round three. She has nice flexibility and advanced gymnastic skills which has helped her to team be successful this season.” Melanie Joslin. Lakewood: Joslin look over a flyer roll as a junior in her first varsity sea­ son with theVikings. • Joslin was named first team all-conference in the GLAC this winter and earned a firsV. team all-district award as well. Ava Phillips. Thomapple Kellogg: Phillips helped thc Trojans to a conference champion­ ship as a senior this winter, competing in all three rounds. She was also honored as an all-conference cheerleader and a member of the all-district second team in Division 2. Marissa Roberts, Hastings: A freshman who competed in all three rounds for lhe Saxon varsity this winter. Roberts was named second team all-district in Division 2 this season. Kylie Smith, Thomapple Kellogg: A junior, Smith was named al I-con fere nee in the OK Gold/Green this winter. Smith was also an honorable mention all-district cheerleader in Division 2 this win­ ter. Zoe Thomas. Thomapple Kellogg: Thomas finished off a fine sophomore winter by earn­ ing honorable mention all-district in Division 2. Thomas was an all-conference cheerleader in lhe OK Gold/Green this season. Brynn TUmes, Hastings: A junior in her third varsity season, Tumes competed in all three rounds for Hastings. Tumes was named all-conference in the 1-8 this winter and was also a second team all-dis­ trict honoree in Division 2. Middleville resident withdraws from county clerk race Greg Chandler Staff Writer Middleville village trustee Amanda Fisk has suspended her candidacy tor Barry’ County clerk. Fisk, who had announced in January she would run as a Democrat for the office currently held by Republican incumbent Pamela Palmer, wrote in a Facebook post Monday that she has decided to put her campaign on hold, citing both her current job situation and her responsibilities with thc village. Fisk, who was elected to lhe village council in November 2018, was laid olt from her job at Railtown Brewing Company in Dutton a month ago because ot thc novel coronavirus pandemic, but indicated she expects to be working increased hours once stay-at-home orders arc lilted. “I don’t feel that 1 will be. able to travel and campaign as I would like with these increased, erratic hours ” Fisk wrote m her 1Xsst “J also would not feel right leaving my work family without a full-time employee only a lew months after re-opening to begin work as county clerk. Fisk also wrote in her post that her work in Middleville is not done. “Most of you know- how important it is to me to work toward allowing recreational marijuana businesses to open in the village,” she wrote. “I am not confident that will be completed by lhe lime I would leave my position as trustee in thc event I am elected clerk.” Fisk was the top vote-getter among four candidates in the 2018 Middleville village election with 762 votes. She is a 2003 Thomapple Kellogg High School graduate, and holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Michigan Slate University and a master’s in public administration from Walden University. Palmer, of Irving Township, was appointed county clerk by a three-member panel of county judges in December 2014, replacing Pamela Jarvis, who retired midway through her term. Palmer defeated former county board chairman Craig Stolsonburg in a Republican primary election in August 2016 and did not face Democratic opposition in the general election that year. �Michigan College this fall DK lead-off hitter off to Lake Page 2020 Hastings Banner Page 12 12 — Thursday, Thursday. April April 16. 16,2020 — The i ne Masury* * Brett Bremer Sports Editor Lily Timmerman remembers getting her first at-bat as a lead-off hitter early on in her sophomore season with thc Delton Kellogg varsity softball team. She drilled thc ball into lhe outfield, round­ ed second and arrived safely at third base where new head coach Duane Knight was , p ••(Coach Knight) just whispered in my car, •I think you’re going to be the lead-off hit­ ter,”’Timmerman said. “He trained me. My first time at bat I need to take a really long time, don’t swing at thc very first pitch and let my team see as many pitches as I can to help them out. My job is to get on base as much as I can. I kind of trained — Delton Kellogg senior Lily Timmerman (seated second from left) signs her National Letter of Intent at Delton Kellogg High School in December to join the Lake Michigan College Women’s Softball program. She is joined by her family members (from left) mother Leslie Timmerman, sister Elli Timmerman and father Chad Timmerman. (Photo supplied) Delton Kellogg senior Uly Timmerman, catching for her travel ball club the Caledonia Chaos. (Photo supplied) First Responders and Publie Safety Officers on the Front Lines In light of the Covid-19 Pandemic and as a THANK YOU to our dedicated first responders, Longstreet Elder Law & Estate Planning is offering estate planning documents to health care providers who are putting themselves in harm’s way for the good of the many. Financial and Medical Powers of Attorney are documents that authorize someone you choose to make Financial or Medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so for yourself due to illness of incapacity. A HIPPA Authorization allows you to control who has access to your medical information in case you become ill. From April to July 2020, we will prepare the following for our First Responders at E9AHAKGE: • FINANCIAL POWER OF ATT ORNEY • MEDICAL POWER OF ATTORNEY • HIPAA AUTHORIZATION FORM During this time period, wc will also discount all other estate planning documents by 50% (such as Wills and Trusts) for you and your immediate family. Our goal is to help legally protect those who are physically protecting us. Take advantage of this offer and make an appointment to meet with the attorneys at Longstreet Elder Law' & Estate Planning, P.C. Robert J. Longstreet Longstreet Elder Law & Estate Planning P.C. 607 North Broadway Hastings, Michigan 49058 269-945-3495 myself to do that. I got really good at loading social worker and her mother is a dentist and up thc count as much as I could betorc 1 got there has been some back and forth over the on base, and got really picky with what I years regarding which of her parent’s fields she might like to get into. swung at. “How people’s brains work and helping “I think that is what he was looking for. I really enjoyed it after a while. Al first 1 was people out with their problems, I just think nervous because it is a lot of pressure being that is really awesome.” Timmerman said. People can use a lot of mental and emotion­ the very- first one. but 1 like it now.” Timmerman, the Panthers’ second baseman al help right now, whether that is coming from and a travel ball catcher with the Caledonia someone with a psychology degree or not. It Chaos, led off for her varsity team throughout hasn’t been easy for student-athletes to lose her sophomore and junior seasons. She also the spring season, and the times are especially led-off with a pen this winter, signing her trying for seniors wondering if and when National Ixtter of Inlent to join lhe Lake there will be major life events like proms and Michigan College Women’s Softball program graduations let .alone ball games. Timmerman in December. She was the first of four Delton said Delton Kellogg Schools Superintendent Kellogg softball seniors to sign, soon fol­ Kyle Corlett has said that there will be a grad­ lowed by teammates Hailey Buckner (Adrian uation ceremony for the seniors, even if they College), Katie Tobias (Central Michigan have to wait until August. Right now, the University) and Erin Kapteyn (Hillsdale travel ball summer schedule hasn’t been dis­ rupted yet and Timmerman was excited to see College). The Panthers won 20 games and a district a Change.org petition “started to promote the championship in the spring of 2018. and ability of high school athletes to finish their bumped up the win total to 30 and added a seasons by moving the currently scheduled second straight district championship in 2019. (MHSAA) season into thc Summer.” It is unlikely the MHSAA reboots the Timmerman was a freshman on an eight-win Panther varsity team in 2017. joined by class­ spring season in lhe summer, but all over the mates Lauren Lebeck and Buckner as mem­ slate there are people working on behalf of bers of the 2020 graduating class that would high school sludent-athletes looking for ways go on to earn what was supposed to be a to possibly get them back on lhe field with fourth varsity season at DKHS this spring. their classmates for one last game, tourna­ Fellow class of 2020 members Kapteyn and ment or shortened season of some kind. Timmerman was really looking forward to Tobias joined them on lhe varsity as sopho­ mores in 2018, thc same year Knight took chasing a conference championship with her teammates this spring and hoping to push over as head coach of the varsity team. Timmerman was catching for her high­ beyond the regional round of the state tourna­ school and travel ball teammate Kapteyn nt a ment for lhe first time. In the end. it appears training session when she verbally committed that her final varsity softball game was a 1-0 to Lake Michigan College as a junior. She’d loss to Coloma in the Division 3 Regional been thinking about playing softball in col­ Semifinals last June. lege ever since getting a spot on the varsity as “We really, really fought hard .’’Timmerman a freshman. said. “1 guess I look back and I am happy w ith “(Lake Michigan) just ended up being the how we fought, and I had a good game best choice overall right there, because it was myself.” financially smart. I can take the exact same She had a pair of singles out of the lead-off classes at a community college as 1 could at spot in that loss to the Comets. Her last offi­ any university. From there, 1 can decide if I cial at-bat on the Panthers’ home field in want to keep playing softball after that for a Delton will be one she never forgets. bigger school or what I really want to major “1 remember everything about it.” in.” Timmerman said. Timmerman said. “It was against Parchment. Right now her plans include majoring in I have the ball right here. Tire dale was May clinical psychology and possibly adding a 24th. We won the first game (of a doublehead­ minor in social work. She said her father is a er) pretty easily (7-0).” The Delton Kellogg girls gave up six rims to Parchment in thc first inning of game two and trailed 9-7 heading into the bottom of the seventh. Parchment retired the first two Delton batters in lhe bottom of the seventh, putting Timmerman up to bat with her team still down two runs. “My future college coach was there watch­ ing me. That was pretty exciting. I hadn’t signed or anything,” Timmerman said. “We started to make a comeback in lhe last inning. 1 got up to bat with two outs and then I got two strikes on me first thing. I want to say she threw a high fastball, which is about my favorite pitch to hit. I drove it over the left Centerfield fence” The home run pulled lhe Panthers within 9-8. Aubrey Aukerman followed with a dou­ ble. Tobias walked and then Lizzy Fichtner drove them both in with a double into left field for the walk-ofT win. Timmerman was 2-for-2 with three walks and four runs scores in that DK victory. With no more official Delton Kellogg var­ sity softball games on lhe horizon,Timmerman is keeping in shape for the summer and colle­ giate seasons by working out al home. “I have jusl been hitting off the tee al home. My dad (Chad) is pitching to me, playing catch when we can.” Timmerman said. “He has really mastered the whole underhand soft­ ball thing just from pitching to me in the yard. He has a really fast fastball and he has a pret­ ty wicked change-up.” When she is not playing softball, Timmerman is doing lhe best she can to keep up with her teammates, friends and family. “It helps to have my senior friends to talk to. even if we can’t sec each other in person." Timmerman said. "We can still Facetime and texi and stuff, and even though it really sucks losing our senior year, and our senior season, it is kind of comforting to know that we’re all in it together rather than just going through it alone. “I know all the parents are really trying to help out. I just try to talk to any of my friends or teammates as often as I can and make them feel better and less lonely. Not even just lhem. my family, both of my grandmas live alone so I try to call them as much as I can.” State OKs financial relief offered for bars and restaurants with on-premises liquor licenses The Michigan Liquor Control Commission was ordered Tuesday to initiate a spirits buy­ back program to offer financial relief to bars and restaurants with on-premises liquor licenses that were affected by the Stay Home Stay Save order j during the continuing COVID-19 crisis. 6 The order empowers the MLCC to use its revolving fund to buy spirits remaining in inventory from bars and restaurants that pur­ chased the spirits prior to March 16 for their full purchase price. Liquor licensees approved for the program have until 90 days after the state’s emergency and disasters declarations are lifted to re-pur­ chase thc spirits from the MLCC. ‘‘Michigan’s 8,500 on-premises liquor licensees continue to make unprecedented sacrifices to help slow the spread of CO VID­ 19 across our state.” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said. “This buy-back program will help our bars and restaurants critical to Michigan’s economy weather the storm through this chal­ lenging time in our history.” Licensees must make their requests no la|er than 5 p.m. Friday, April 17. using the online form on the MLCC website. Preparing small manufacturers to restart the state COVID-19 has caused a disruption in ninny key industries, but the state and country will restart - and being prepared w ill be essential for the economy |O rejuvenate, small business experts say. The Michigan Manufacturing & Technoloirv Association (MMTA) is hosting Restarting Michigan: A Conversation with Brian Calk-v president of the Small Business Association ol Michigan, to prepare Michigan’s manufacturers for the green light. 'lhe facilitated conversation will focus on the following key areas: Recommendations from slate leaders to restart Michigan; what restarting means for manufactured; unique opportunities and challenges for mamdauur ers; h(nv manufacturers can prepare to reopen; available COVlbjg resources for manuf.w hirers, such as SHAM, funding, labor and OSH A. Registration is required to attend thc virtual Zoom meeting from 10 io 11 a.m. Thursday. April 23. The manufacturing industry employs 15 |>ervent of the workforce in Michigan, the second highest industry just below healthcare and social assistance, which employs 16 per­ cent of lhe workforce. Small manufacturers employ nearly half of alt the manufacturing jobs in Michigan. “Il’s essential that our slate’s small manu­ facturers are prepared for the changes that fie ahead. MMTA will be there to help navigate the changes. I his virtual conversation will give us the platform to share relevant, timely, and valuable information with our manufac­ turers.” said Jennifer Deamud, Executive Dnvuorof MMTA. ' Brian Calle, has one of •he sharpest minds on tax policy, and issues impacting business." s|lc added. Restarting Michigan will be critical to our eco umiie and public health recovery." (’alley sau!. "We know that when we tvsmne e«’ ~dW,CS-i;h7'”kP1^ "iH look X � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-04-23.pdf 2c5fa037ea7afe9bc379646224055cf8 PDF Text Text Delton postpones school millage vote Time start those ertlmes.. See Story on Page 3 See Editor^1 9n Page 4 Delton’s Buckner to go to bat for Adrian See Story on Page 10 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 ..c^L0V 05 Thursday.Apnl?12020 VOLUME 167, No. 17 NEWS BRIEFS Prayer Walk offered for local merchants A group from the Gun Lake Community Church is meeting at 12:45 p m. Friday in Hastings to conduct a prayer walk through the downtown. Their goal, they said, is to pray for the downtown merchants, their businesses and employees. Members of the prayer group will wear masks and maintain proper six-foot social distancing between each participant as they meet at the northeast section of the Ace Hardware parking lol for some brief I direction, then they will make their way. on opposite sides of the street, down in front of each main street business. Prayers also will be extended to those restaurants and businesses not on the main street as some participants also will be driving through the city to pray. Those inside the businesses are asked to stand in their store windows so they arc visible to the prayer walkers, or to place signs in their windows to suggest what the group might pray for to help them. Flags lowered to honor lives lost Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags lowered to half­ staff throughout the state of Michigan indefinitely starting to honor and mourn those who have lost their lives due to the coronavirus CO VID-19. “The coronavirus pandemic has had devastating impacts on families across our state.” Whitmer said April 10 when the order when into effect. “I’m directing flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of those we has e lost to this awful virus. The flags lowered will serve to remind us all that every life lost is a story and legacy of a loved one gone too soon. “As we continue on. we will carry their memories. My deepest condolences to the families of those whose lives were tragi­ cally cut short by CO VID-19.” 'Hie state recognizes and mourns the lives lost to the coronavirus by lowering flags to half-staff. Michigan residents, businesses, schools, local governments and other organizations also are encour­ aged to display the flag at half-staff. To lower flags to half-staff, flags should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff posi­ tion. The process is reversed before the flag is lowered for the day. A follow-up release will be sent when the flags are to be raised. niA> be dle cancellation Parks CUn ’ ? U> the Burry County office, 269-945.3775. PRICE 75C COVID-19 case prompts precautions at Bradford White Greg Chandler Staff writer Officials at Bradford White inc. in Middleville are undertaking a series of pre­ cautions after one of its employees tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. Company officials were notified .Monday about the employee, who has been quaran­ tined until that person has received clearance from their doctor to return to work, said Mark Taylor, executive vice president and general manager for the company, in a prepared state­ ment. “We immediately notified team members who may have been exposed, and these employees will go through additional screen­ ing until May 4,” Taylor said. “The area with the reported case was thoroughly cleaned and sanitized on top of our already enhanced cleaning and sanitizing procedures.” Measures that the company has undertaken include limiting person-to-person contact on the job, providing personal protective equip­ ment to employees who are unable to be sep­ arated by more than six feet, and adjusting break times and lunch times to ensure employ­ ees are not gathered in groups. Taylor said. “We require employees who are experienc­ ing any cold or flu-like symptoms to stay at home until further notice,” Taylor said. “We have also enhanced cleaning procedures in the plant, including sanitizing common areas such as bathrooms and break rooms multiple times each shift and providing deep c|enning production line equips” and workstations tors’ offices, nursing homes, schools, military installations, and food processing plants. Taylor said, Middleville Village Manager Duane Weeks said he got a phone call fromBradford White management Monday to him of the situa­ tion. , . r “They reached out ano informed us that it had happened, and they were notifying their employees that they were shutting down that line and working to disinfect (the equip­ ment).” Weeks said. “They let mc )(now t|K» procedure they were doing Tight al that point and let us know what was going on." Sarah Surna. a spokeswoman for the BarryEaton District Health Department, said the department did receive word of the situation al Bradford White. “We know about an individual (who tested positive), but he resides in a different county, so that county’s health department would be tracking his case.” Surna said. Bradford While is Barry County’s largest employer, with nearly L6<X) employees at'thc Middleville plant. These employees produce essential water heating and water storage equipment that is critical to infrastructure and public health. Bradford White has provided water heating equipment to temporary field hospitals across the U.S., including Michigan, and their prod­ ucts are installed in homes and numerous commercial facilities such as hospitals, doc­ Water heater Hues line the exit path and banners displaying health questions and advice line the exterior walls of a tent set up outside the entrance to Bradford White Corp, in Middleville just before the change from first shift to second shift Tuesday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Quarantine ordered al Hastings senior housing complex Greg Chandler Staff Writer Residents of a Hastings senior housing complex are under a temporary quarantine by the Barry-Eaton District Health Department after a few of the 41 residents, including a woman who died on Easter Sunday, tested positive for the COV1D-I9 virus. Department Health Officer Colette Scrimger ordered the quarantine last Friday at the 38-unit Mallard Pond Village Apartments. 611 E. Woodlawn Ave. As a result, residents arc being asked not to leave their homes until further notice. “The primary goal of the measure is to pro­ tect public health,” Scrimger said in a pre­ pared statement. “During this difficult time, special considerations must be taken to pro­ tect the community’s most vulnerable mem­ bers. We know that a quarantine of Mallard Pond Village Apartments will be challenging for the residents.” Quarantine means the temporary separation and movement restriction of people who were exposed to a contagious disease to see if they become sick, and to prevent people who may be infected from unknowingly transmitting the virus to others, Scrimger said. The exact number of positive COVID-19 cases al Mallard Pond, which is listed as Hastings Ponds Senior Community by its owners. Mount Pleasant-based KMB Prestige Inc., is not being released by health depart­ ment officials, who cited H1PAA patient pri­ vacy policies. As of Tuesday, there were 28 positive cases of COVID-19 in the county, including the April 12 death of the 59-year-old woman a day after she was found in her apartment in Mallard Pond, said Amy Jo Tisdcl, manager of the complex. The victim was found on .Saturday. April HHS seniors have caps and gowns, await commencement date Charlton Park Day canceled Members of the Barry County Parks Commission have decided to cancel the 14th annual Charlton Park Day celebra­ tion, which had been scheduled for May 23. “Like with all things COVID-19, we are unsure what May and June will look like for all of us by then.” Historic Charlton Park director Dan Patton said in an April 16 press release on behalf of the parks commission. “Unfortunately, we do believe there will be many challenges that a> ahead, and truly feel that canceling the is the right decision for ensuring pu j K health and safety. t . e decision was not made lightly, he *hat Charlton Park Day rep r lhe facility and to the greater ■"^■xuMy Community. yearo ”'ni lto l,ccn lleld ,be P351 13 »i><1 in ,oun‘kT ln i"8 Chariton ed ir> J>rollen>’ and collection lie donalhavin* a '’Cunt> >n hopes of someday typiX !1Roric P** 'll* celebration <;•>, n?.1*' lo^e^K,r thousands of and cvkbJ •? rv;|dciits for free food, fun the *021 PitUoh 5aid« adding that QuesdonJ!niuy !* digger and better. ANNER Hastings High ocnooi senior Anna qcheck collects tier cap, gown and honor rnrds in the Hastings High School gym­ nasium Friday. Saxon seniors are 3tin Brett Bremer Sports Editor “Here is what 1 know. and I will promise," Hastings Area School System Superintendent Daniel Remenap wrote to district families early this month. “We will have a graduation ceremony for °ur seniors ... it may I* *n Jub'» beck maybe August, who knows right now. but we will hold a graduation ceren^ny ’ Graduation pre|X»rs,l,ons continued for seniors Friday as the) 'vere welcomed, once Properly adorned in a faCe mask and gloves the COVID-19 ^°ncerns, to pick up their caps and gown* in lhc Hastings High School gymnasiumare seniors enrolled at Hastings 1^’-1 School this school year. Students, or a pepne!en,adve« could pick UP a variety of thing51 hursday and Friday: CaPs, gowns, honor5 cords, Chromebook computers, graphing cremators, textbooks. Applies and work p>ketSl . “J was sort of We were even lacking it up, bccflu’c u* ceremony is not planned yet ’’ Hasti^5 scn,or A«na Schcck Said after getting l*f ?P’ ,g0Wn and honor She is one of Academic Top Honors Sludcnts this year. r . “For our senior-nlcd u> all that families,‘n«h School ‘hncipal Teresa I(L Sn,ne seniors j*‘c going to t-.Le t|irtr rap ar,d Sown out and *•« <hen> outside X WC di""'1 get piclJ>Sl'"flike that? ' See S^,0RS’ Page 2 11. during a well-being check by Hastings Police who had received a call of an individu­ al who had fallen. She was taken to Spectrum Health Pennock Hospital, where she was diagnosed with the COVID-19 virus, Police Chief Jeff Pratt said. The two police officers who responded to the well-being check were wearing personal protection equipment when they made the call and. as a result, did not have to self-quaran­ tine. Pratt said. In a social media post on Tuesday, BEDHD planning, promotion and evaluation manager Anne Barna outlined the timetable from the confinnation of the first case of COVID-19 at Mallard Pond and the public announcement of the quarantine. “BEDHD was notified about the first cases on Monday, April 13. On Tuesday, we notified all residents regarding their potential expo­ sure and provided materials on self-quaran­ tine and testing resources. We also partnered with their management on cleaning best prac­ tices for the apartment building. We took the additional step of ordering an official quaran­ tine for all residents on Thursday night after learning of another exposure. This pandemic is an unprecedented situation, and the virus is unique in its ability to be infectious before people start feeling sick. We do believe we acted as swiftly as we could to protect the public’s health.” While maintenance crews at Mallard Pond have done regular cleaning throughout the complex, efforts by management to try to prevent further spread of the virus increased after they received word of the resident’s death. “We had a professional (cleaning) team come in and sanitize everything, floor to ceil- See QUARANTINE, page 3 Matawan offers top post t© Lakewood superintendent growth opportunity for Taylor Owens Fleenor. Staff Writer Mattawan has a student Lakewood Superintendent count of 3.800. compared to Randall Fleenor entered 1 ,X00 at Lake wood, accord­ contract negotiations for the ing to mischoodata.org. position as superintendent of “h was clear Randy was Mattawan Consolidated an incredible fit for the can­ Schixils after a final inter­ didate profile we devel­ view Tuesday. oped." Mattawan Board “I’m very excited to be President Scott Sylvester joining lhe Mattawan team. said in the release. “He Fleenor said in a press made an excellent impres­ release issued by Mattawan. sion on those he met with “I’m looking forward to during the process, and his working with the board, experience and training teachers and support stall in Randall Fleenor clearly demonstrate his the coming month*’ to ensure preparation to successfully a smooth transition at>d >et lead our sch(X)l district." the course for a strong iuiare . Fleenor’s contract with Mattawan is The Mattawan Bo nd of Education un.im mously voted to offer Fleenor the po>*.uon scheduled to begin July I, and Iris contract ..tier lheir su|Kriiue..Jent sear. h pr<Ke:.s ih.it with Lakewood is set to end June 30. But Fleenor said there is a still a lot of started in Pcwmber. and v,a. extended due to the eomnavinis. The vunVnt supennten- work to do in his remaining months at dent of Mattawan. Robin Uu-.-hu i. is retiring l.akvvood, especially with the coronavirus pandemic. this year , . . . "I'm going to continue operating at the Fleenor said last In day he has Ix-.n happy .it UikemxMl.and was not loosing lor redline on the tachometer.” Fleenor said. i\flow any said the board will discuss a ww job when |,e was eonlacK d alrotn he position in l ebnuny. Bm.attert.dkmgtolns options to hire a new superintendent during family, he decided il was an opportmniy a board meeting Monday He said he would like to select a new superintendent befoie worth exploring Lakewood Hoard o! laiucauon resident the start of lhe next school year, but it may Frank lhe ixiau. has been lake longer, especially with the ongoing pan­ exnemeh happy «»l> ' Renor s pet o - demic. manee, and Matl»w»» would be ,. new �Pa°* 2 — Thursday, Aonl 23. 2020 — The Hastes Banner SENIORS, continued from page 1 Seniors placed (he orders for caps and gowns in the fall. Heide said the high schtxd had its counseling department on hand Friday to let seniors know about any special grade requirements. Hastings juniors and seniors were scheduled to pick up school items Friday, after a freshman and sophomore packet/ device pick-up was held Thursday at the high school. Families were instructed to send one person to the building to enter at the athletic entrance, and the two days were split into two sessions - one each for students with last names in the first or second half of the alphabet. The most people in the building at one time, other than the working staff, was about eight, Heide said. Topically, there were far fewer than that nt any given time. Scheck said Friday was one of the first times she has worn n mask out in public, just because she hasn’t been out of the house since the stay-at-home order went into effect. ‘Today was the first time I have been in a car in like four weeks,” she said. Those entering the building were required to wear masks and gloves. Some gloves were available to those in need, and anyone without a mask was asked to use a coffee filter as a Hastings: High Schoo! Principal Teresa Heide (left) and office staff member Kristi Erb mask to protect themselves and others ns best look to gather the appropriate honor cords to distribute at tables filled with graduation they could. A check-in desk was set up at the athletic entrance, with work packet pick-up for those who pre-ordered. There were different pathways to pick up Chromebooks or graphing districts that took that one final Friday to kind Community College for two years, to continue calculators and a path into the gymnasium for of wrap things up while many other districts studying creative writing and English. He has cap, gown and honor cord pick-up. Those across the state halted school immediately spent some time writing ovcr ^e past few weeks, putting in some work on short stories who did not pre-order their school work Thursday, March 12. Scheck was back at the school Friday for and a novel, “but not as much as I probably packets could wind their way between should have been with all this free time,” he different tables in the gymnasium to collect her graduation gear. “I just got off a book discussion with my said. The writing he has done is a mix work from their different classes. The high school handed out about 100 [Advanced Placement) environmental science between fun and school work for a creative Chromebooks to those in need of some class. We have been sending videos and writing class. technological help nt home. Winter athletes stuff,” she said. Scheck said it is not that bad having to were also able to pick up any certificates or Her class had been discussing “The Sixth deal w ith lhe stay-at-home order, although she awards they earned during the 2019-20 Extinction: An Unnatural History,” by is missing the social aspects of school. “I have been sleeping a lot.” fellow senior Elizabeth Kolbert. which earned its author lhe season. Pathways and six-foot marks were in blue 2015 Pulitzer Prize in General Nonfiction. Skyler Teske said. “I check my emails like tape on the floors. People who were finished Scheck said she is 99 percent certain she is every day. because I get so bored." collecting their items exited the building at going to attend the University of Michigan to Taking the time to check email had been a the front office entrance where a table with study earth and environmental science. rare occurrence for Teske. She is getting to hand sanitizer awaited them. Senior Camden Tellkamp picked up his communicate with her small circle of close “We really wanted to get them out only honor cords Friday. He said it has been friends on Snapchat and Instagram. Teske one day, so if you’re going to come out you’re annoying not getting to be with his friends took care of her English homework right going to come and get everything,” Heide and not getting to experience things the way a away in the days after school was suspended, said. and has been working as a delivery driver for normal senior class would. Most of the students were able to collect “Il’s cool that they’re going to do the Walldorff, one day a week, where she was all of their personal belongings from the high graduation anyway, even if it is later." a host before restaurants were forced to stop school March 13, the Friday that was the final Tellkamp said. serving customers on-site. day students and teachers were together in lhe She said she uis still a bit nervous going He said he plans to attend Kellogg building. Hastings was one of lhe school to the high school Friday, and felt like she State braces for budget shortfall, layoffs loom Bridge Magazine Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s admin­ istration was expected to announce temporary layoffs across state government this week as the coronavirus forces increased spending amid revenue shortfalls. The layoffs will last for 10 work days, according to emails circulated to state employ­ ees ahead of a formal announcement. Slate workers who receive a layoff notice later Wednesday will not be paid, but will retain their health insurance and other benefits. The state will automatically sign them up unem­ ployment insurance. It’s unclear how many of the slate’s 48,(MX) government employees will be affected. The Michigan Budget Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment, and a Whitmer spokesperson declined to share addi­ tional details, saying more information would be forthcoming. Attorney General Dana Nesscl’s office issued temporary layoff notices to more than 100 people on Tuesday, about 25 percent of the department’s workforce, according to spokeswoman Kelly Rossman-McKinney. Legal work has dramatically increased in some areas of the department during lhe pub­ lic health crisis but slowed in others, she said. The layoffs reflect "the difficult reality that we all face," McKinney said. “The staff at this department do amazing work on behalf of the people of this state every single day. We will continue to do that, regardless of the challeng­ es that arise in lhe future.” Slate officials are bracing for up to $7 bil­ lion in revenue losses over the next 18 months, including $3 billion in the current fiscal year that ends in October. Sales tax, income tax and even gas lax collections arc expected to drop because of the pandemic and executive orders that close non-essential busi­ nesses across lhe state. Michigan is receiving about $3.8 billion in assistance from the federal government under the relief bill signed by President Donald Trump on March 27. But it appears that money can only be used to cover new costs resulting from the public health crisis - not to fill budget holes created by the ensuing economic disaster. Local governments across lhe state also arc dealing with their own budget shortfalls and have begun to lay off or furlough employees. About $800,000 of lhe federal money coming to Michigan will go to local governments with at least 500,000 residents, but officials arc urging the Whitmer idministration to share another $1.1 million with smaller govern­ ments. The National Governors Association had urged Congress to include another $500 bil­ lion in “state stabilization funds" in its latest relief package, but the plan approved Tuesday by lhe U^. Senate did not include any addi­ tional money for state or local governments. “The magnitude of lhe crushing economic impact this virus has had on our states and residents cannot be overstated.” Whitmer and fellow governors from Wisconsin and Pennsylvania told Trump in a letter last week. “These cuts will undoubtedly lead to con­ tinued and major job losses in my state, where over 1 million new' unemployment claims have been filed since March 15. a 5,000-percent increase over a four-week period, repre­ senting roughly a quarter of the slate’s work­ force,” Whitmer wrote. Whitmer said Monday she is taking a 10-pcrcent pay cut from her $159300 salary, a portion of which she’ll return to the state, and asked senior staffers in the executive office to take a 5-pcrcent reduction. Information about COVID-19 testing sites The Barry Eaton District Health Department is advising anyone with symp­ toms, even if those symptoms are mild, to get tested. Each site may operate differently, so it is important to call ahead to find out specific instructions for that site. Testing sites are: Barry County Hastings Spectrum Health Pennock: 1009 W. Green Street (833) 559-0659 Eaton County Eaton Rapids Rite Aid: 715 South Main Street, Eaton Rapids, MI 48827 Schedule a slot at wvyw.riteaid.com Charlotte Sparrow Eaton Hospital: ALIVE Campus 800 W. Lawrence Avenue, East side of building (877)205-1300 Ingham County Sparrow Hospital: St. Lawrence Campus 1210 W. Saginaw, South side of building (877) 205-1300 PHP Building 1400 Michigan Avenue, East side of build­ ing (877) 205-1300 Ingham Community Health Centers 2316 S. Cedar St. (517) 887-4517 East Lansing Michigan Stale University Health Care 804 Service Road, Parking Lot 100 (855) 958-2678 Jackson County Center for Family Health 505 N. Jackson St. (517) 748-5363 Henry Ford Allegiance Health (313) 874-1055 Calhoun County Grace Health. 181 W. Emmett St. (269) 441-3463 Kent County­ Grand Rapids Cherry Health 200 Sheldon Street SE (616) 965-8347 Spectrum Health Testing available at mulUPltf Iocations (833) 559-0659 Mercy Health Grand ^Pids Wegc Parking Ramp 300 Ufayette Ave SE 833-247-1258 Kalamazoo County Bronson Health Care Group 1 Healthcare Plaza (269) 341-7788 Hwlth Center 117 W Paterson St (269) 488-0804 Kalamazoo Health ^Community ^^iyes Department ’’H E. Alcott St. 269-373-5200 General information reiing individual with a known COVID-19 diagnosis/expo^ who . not please contact (517) 541 -2641. Hastings High School senior Camden Tellkamp checks in with Carrie Larabee ju inside the athletic entrance at the high school Friday as he arrives to pick up his on r cords in the gymnasium. (Photo by Brett Bremer) looked “a bit ridiculous" hiding her face behind a mask, but was happy io be getting her cap and gown. “It is so weird. 1 had a set schedule, and now I don’t have one,” Teske said. There is no set schedule or plan for when a graduation ceremony can happen either. "We’re wailing on the governor right now,” Heide said of any plans for a commencement ceremony. “We want to make sure she doesn’t extend our stay-at-home order well into May and June. We don’t want to pul out a date now and then have to go back to our families who have planned for that and say ‘Sony’.’ 'Hie governor is either getting ready to start a gradual release or to tighten things up more. I don’t know. Mr. Remenap and lhe district administration want us to wait.” Sheriff asks citizens to use ‘common sense’ Taylor Owens Staff Writer Sheriff Dar Leaf encouraged Barry County residents to get out of the house if they need to. as long as they follow social distancing guidelines - and he had a national platform from which to offer that advice. In a live televised interview last week with Ed Henry, Leaf said, “I want people out of the house. ...We don’t want them bottled up inside the house where they start arguing and start drinking alcohol.” Leaf was contacted by Fox News for lhe interview after he publicly supported four Michigan sheriffs who issued a press release staling they would not strictly enforce certain parts of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s Stay Home Stay Save Executive Order. “You’re one of lhe sheriffs who’s saying. ‘Look, I’m not going to listen to Gov. Whitmer I’m going to defy the order.’ Why?” Henry asked. “We’re not saying we’re not going to listen to Gov. Whitmer,” Leaf replied. “We’re going to use common sense when it comes to enforcing it. When people are being respectful and using a six-foot range, we’re not going to on out and start telling people to go on home.” Leaf told The Hastings Banner part of lhe reason why he wanted to do the interview was to clarify what he and the other sheriffs are doing. “I didn’t like the fact that they were making us five sheriffs look like we were out trying to defy the governor.” “Il’s almost like they wanted to start a fight between me and the governor, I wasn’t going to go there,” Leaf said of his interview with Henry. “I wasn’t going to roll in the mud .... We don’t want all this to get political.” Leaf said Barry County Sheriff’s Deputies will use discretion when enforcing the execu­ tive order. He pointed to a provision banning the use of motorboats, but not kayaks. “What better place to be than out in the middle of the lake?” Leaf said. While Leaf said lhe provision seems to be aimed at preventing officers from having to help boaters with engine trouble, he said the office usually has to help plenty of kayakers who have issues on the lakes. If people arc out on a boat fishing by them­ selves, or with their child, the sheriff’s office won’t be giving them a ticket, Leaf said. ”1 am asking my deputies and every officer out there to use their discretion on orders, and especially orders that are vague or inconsis­ tent,” Leaf wrote in a Facebook post. “We allow discretion even when lhe law is clear. For example, if you are out there having a parly officers will probably shut you down. If you are out walking your dog you probably I Heide said she was very- happy with the way lhe plan for distributing learning materials, caps and gowns and other things came together at the high school. “It was because of a lot of staff support and involvement, especially these tw'o right here.” Heide said motioning to office staff members Kristi Erb and Cheryl Northrop who were working behind the table where caps and gowns were being handed out to seniors. It was a total team effort, with all kinds of staff members preparing, cleaning, manning the tables to hand out packets and technological hardware, all with safety as the lop concern. Things went off well at lhe middle school and elementary school levels in Hastings as well, where packets and devices were handed out late last week. won’t be bothered.” But that also isn’t much different from how deputies usually conduct themselves, Ixaf told lhe Banner. “My whole career, officers have always used discretion.” “Officers across lhe country have always had discretion on how to enforce the law. he wrote on Facebook. “The law lhe governor is using to do her executive orders slates that the orders have to be reasonable. Reasonable in Detroit might be different than reasonable in Delton. That’s where ’discretion’ comes in. We are here to work with our community, not work them over.” On each shift, officers make a number of decisions based on their discretion for each case. Leaf said. The only real difference in this case is the importance of minimizing deputies’ contacts with lhe public, to keep them from getting the virus. In a small office, if only a couple of depul ies of lhe road patrol or jail are infected with lhe coronavirus and off from work, it would be a major drain on the other deputies. Leaf told The Banner. He cited a 1996 U.S. Supreme Court case, Prinlz v. U.S. In the case. Supreme Court jus­ tices ruled that lhe U.S. Congress could not compel local law enforcement chiefs to per­ form background checks for prospective handgun owners. Ixaf said lhe case carries implications to the enforcement of the executive order “because it talked about lhe crisis of the day. We weren’t supposed to be centralizing power Basically, what it was saying was the Constitution is first.” “One right that you don’t have is lhe right to injure others.” Lxat wrote on Facebook. Giving someone else the virus is an injury. It s not that difficult... Use some common sense. Most everyone knows by now how far io slay away Irom another. Wear a mask and rubber gloves when shopping and dispose of them properly - and not in the shopping cart ” �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. Apr;* 23. 2020 — F’age 3 School board experiences financial uncertainties S"'»n>,h Kmxhelr executive ofl|Cr w for the vemainder of year. Plans revan ’. ' raised since the st’^»«ols school remote learning and .n\pIiU,Cs' f?rat,UiU'on‘ and rescheduled *rc 1aVc ahercd aspects, buninam*??115 lMM °nl> eihk alionaI 2019-2020 budget dun, *he.fimendmenl Io dle fortable brin ,,nie ^car ’ am 00,11 not unit > fidget ami ndmctil, £J UnKh lhr >^’"idl niuch £tow n ^n;ind^.,ovome.”hesaid.“l ... vnn ° Pe°ple think with school being •.J mUs| saving a lot of money, but Aitt ^?Vernnicnt.s requirements to get our s • e aid, we need to continue paying all o < nr employees whether they ate able to do their regular jobs or not. So, we are conlinu‘^'t by “ U S° J'ar’WC arv eon’’,n,in£lo When reviewing the general fund. Berlin informed the board of the budget updates. * our hist budget amendment, you will see wc were projecting to add to fund balance by >16.363,” he said. “Now* this new budget, wc are projecting to cut into fund balance bv just a little bit over $145,000.” Berlin explained that a number of details have changed in regards lo lhe financials. The main changes are to lhe outgoing transfers. Shuttle buses w ere purchased for the transpor­ tation department and the employees are still receiving pay and benefits. However, all rev­ enue from the childcare. Community Education and Recreation Center (CERC), and Performing Arts Center (P/\C) have been cut, resulting in an extra SlOOjOOO projected expense there, Berlin said. “We are doing all of this to keep people paid, to get our state aid. but we heard in a meeting today that they could still potentially cut lhe current y ear state aid w hich would be devastating not only to us, but lo all schools as we are already seventy-five percent through our current school year.” Although lhe current year stale aid being cut is only a possibility, the state aid being cut next year is pretty much a guarantee. Berlin said. While the budget cut for next year is still being determined. Superintendent Dan Remenap said, it does not look good. “We don’t want to be guessing any num­ bers. but it’s not going to be good,” Remenap said. “A lol of people are losing jobs so income tax revenue at the state lev el has been . . . ... i. u »• ih,. .t n slashed. Obvioudy because of the stay-athoine order, people aren’t buying so .ales tax revenues have been slashed at the state level So it’s pretty bleak, h’s pretty dire. _ __ of $145,000. the balance left in With the cut the general fund is a little over $2.9 million, Berlin said. I hat leaves the district with a lit He over 10 percent of their general fundr resources. In other business, the board approved two North East Ohio Learning Associates (NEOLA) resolutions regarding the gover­ nor’s executive orders 2020-21 and 2020-35. By approving these resolutions, lhe superin ten de nt is allowed to waive, alter, or suspend board policy and make emergency decisions* without board approval. “It’s the recommendation from NEOLA that we adopt these because some of the details from lhe executive orders horn the governor may conflict with board policy,” Re me nap said. Board member Dan Patton proposed an amendment to lhe resolution regarding the involvement of the board of education presi­ dent. Luke Haywood. “I believe it is import­ ant for Dan [Rcmenapl to have the ability to make decisions as they.arise in emergency situation, so I certainly agree with whal we arc trying to do.” Patton said. “However. I would like to see some language in there that .says ’the superintendent in consultation with lhe board president.” Under the resolution, the superintendent is still required to inform the board of actions taken, but he docs not have to involve the board in lhe decisions. "I do feel it’s imperative for the Ixjard pres­ ident to be involved in the discussion maybe earlier than the rest of the board members," Patton said. “We are lhe ones elected to the board to represent our district and 1 just want to make sure there is a voice coming from those who are elected in that process.’’ Conversation between board members clar­ ified that, under this amendment, the superin­ tendent is still able to make decisions w ithout consent from the board "It’s not that Luke | Hay wood | has to agree necessarily, or disagree, with what Dan (Remenap! and his team are trying to put together, it’s just that he’s kept in lhe loop from lhe scry beginning." Patton said. Board members Valerie Slaughter ques­ tioned if it was necessary to make the amend­ ment. “I guess my concern is: Is it really neces­ sary' to add it to the policy?” she said. “I would say. for the most part, we have that communication.” Remenap explained that, if the board viewed his action was unnecessary, they .. Mr.ii itit. A^ .i*\ri■>...!... ' 'll^nf1, could .rescind /V.ythojzol by this'resoh? » The V* Hasihws Hastings Board Board of of Education Education felt felt we we “Tciupormy identified m .'Hawi Jrn,mhKl ,he evaluation because it was IUm are in cfTed «ith »ur new superintendent aod exe. otive— order vv>.•• /K « ’o»ld be beneficial for everyorw to -............ , ----- ' a Ixmchmark to help set grials for 2020 35 and any nc<« year,” he said. order, unless ‘ Hu< to all standardized tests being canceled the boanl upon n«d hy ihc next meet lor du year, the evaluation was conducted for “So. it it's not I- ^t>-JIt(| Jhi(> every category, w ith the exception of the stu. jng. you haveRentenap satd. dent data Haywood said he would discuss tlw Im policy recomo* MjRc Nkkds tgsulth with the superintendent in the near Hoard .nern 1)1)w lh fc|( future, and the evaluation will hopefully be Remenap and . available at the next meeting. this amendment . rv . • l m not reacl»'>f 1 ‘SJ , tr I”™- make sore tha R"„)Ciia|> said. “I don’t have cxccultve <>rda, R u liy ()r l||c a real strong fee 'ng dc(.idc m happy with whatc nm IPattnni ;• • ’Al .. where l’*u ’’utionj is corning, f C U1| recirdte*5 W?° *s ’n l*lc from, ar id. reg..rd h offcrs Die Board Board of of Education Education is is very very pleased pleased ““'Die with the performance of our Superintendent Dan Remenap and arc grateful that he chose to come to our district. Our school district has . encountered numerous unforeseen challenges this year and Mr. Remenap has done a great job serving our students and staff. "Wc are excited to be working with him again next year.” 'Die next regular Hastings hoard of educa­ tion meeting is scheduled for Monday. May IK in the Performing Arts Center at 7 p.m. Delton Kellogg officially postpones millage vote en s pos ’ jt also offers the opporLuke Fronchcck chccks and I . • pn.sident could inform Staff Writer hmity that hJ superintendent is deal- : ________ . I’ was only a matter of time before the board members ‘n wix| sai(J . “I guess ........... ,I fTellon Kellogg Board of Education voted to ing with a crisis. H z„ postpone its non-homestead operating millage would be m la'ot’ <’ appn,vwl an<1 . scheduled for the May election. The amendmem ,vc thc s ri ■ -,x . .. The. decision to >postpone the vote until resohmons w 'rt With the board presi­ August came as the board met for an dent working t, . wi(h hj|n OJ| dcci_ emergency session at 8 a.m. Friday. They dent and co. any change in conducted their business through an online stons iK-tng nude W of s|a|e meeting with a small quorum. board policy ns a re­ Board members Kelli Martin, Jessica orders. Brandli, Sarah Austin and Craig Jenkins were joined by by Superintendent Kyle Corlelt. In other business: James McManus, Bob Howtrow and -Remenap acknowledge* retirement ol Rodney Dye were absent from the meeting. high school science te*her Many Buehler. the vote on the operating millage is -We appreciate his serv'ce. bul he is retir­ ing effective this school year, so we want to considered essential for the future operation of lhe district. acknowledge Marty and thank him," he said. “If we didn’t pass it in August, we would -Board "member Louis Wterenga Jr. have to go for it November, and if we didn’t expressed his condolences to Chris Cooley, who’s dad, Raymond.dkd April 9. 1 d like to pass it then, we would see a decrease in state send condolences to Chris Cooley and his funding,” Corlett said. If approved, the millage would bring the family about the loss of his father, he said. - The board adopted the Schools of Choice school approximately $3,174 million. If was Resolution. Adoption of this resolution means to fail, Corlelt said, the result would be that the district will utilize the Schools of catastrophic. “1 couldn’t even speculate whal we would Choice plan, which states that districts may have to cut,” he said. "We’re not even at a accept school transfer requests from students residing in contiguous intermediate school point where we can cut things.” Voters in August will be presented with districts, regardless of local district contiguity. This resolution also allows administration to two ballot questions from the district. process transfer requests without bringing However, each pertains to the non-homestead operating millage, w hich only affects property them to the board. - The board conducted an evaluation of the owners within lhe school district with vacation superintendent during a closed session that homes and businesses. “The most (he school can mill is 18. so lasted around two-and-a-half hours. It is a what happens is over time is that amount gets requirement by law to conduct an annual superintendent evaluation; however, due to decreased because of inflation,” Corlelt said the COVID-19 pandcmicjthe evaluation was during a January school board meeting. “So, every five years, schools must go out and ask optional. Haywood said. • .a r 1 r r for-voters to raise it back up. “We always raise it above 18 because ’ -' ’’ ' bF ‘ • • - < every year it drops because of inflation.” . lite first question is for lhe preliminary operating millage and the second is for an additional 5 mills, which Corlelt said is only there because the school can only ask for so much above 18 mills on one question. . “Again, that is not an increase,” Corlelt, said. “We cannot do more than 18 mills., That’s just to protect us if the rate drops below 18 within five years. • “That way, if it does drop below 18 within five years, we won’t have to bother lhe voters again.” he said. “Every time you have, something on the ballot, the district pays thousands of dollars.” By doing this. Corlelt said it would save both lhe school district and voters money. The board also passed a resolution towaive policies affected by lhe COVID-19 shutdown. The decision came as lhe school's legal rcpresentaiion. Thrun Law Firm of East Lansing, recommended that the district. approve the resolution in order to not violate , any of its own policies by its inability to. complete them while school was shut down. Corlelt also briefly touched on the upcoming bond work and how it could be affected by a potential stay-athome order extension. „ The only bond work that can continue,, right now. he said, would be items considered essential - the abatement of asbestos in the old wood shop near lhe elementary' school and replacement of a portion of the middle school roof. The board also paid its monthly bills and. amended its 2019-20 budget to reflect the changes created by operating decisions because of COV1D-I9. u "We’re hoping for a regular board meeting in May to recognize lhe top Ilk seniora.x CorleUsaid. .. „ ■ '• Spectrum to distrstate tadimiad® feee maslks Ongoing donations of handmade face masks from residents throughout West Michigan is prompting Spectrum Health Pennock to distribute those masks to people in the community who most need them. The decision comes in the wake of a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendation that every one wear a reus­ able mask when leaving their home as a way to slow the spread of COVID-19. Hospital officials said they will hold a reserve of the handmade masks collected locally to make sure there is a supply available for immediate use as identified through the United Way of Barry County, the health department and other local agencies. “Because people in the community have been so generous with their time and talents. Spectrum Health has collected more than 6.000 masks,” said Kurt Knoth, vice president of supply chain. Spectrum Health. “We encourage those who are able to please con­ tinue making and donating masks. This will help us to reduce lhe community spread of COVID-19 by providing the reusable masks lo the people within our communities in great­ est need." Long-term care facilities, home health workers and non-profit organizations aligned with Spectrum Health are among the groups initially identified to receive masks, based on supply and demand. Spectrum Health Pennock will collect the homemade masks al its designated drop-off site at the Stale Street Center Urgent Care. 1108 W. State Street, and is accepting dona­ tions Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. For questions on donations of hand-made masks, please contact Janine Dalman at Janine.dahnante specminihealth.org. Non-aviation business leasing space at airport must move out in 18 months Greg Chandler Stiff Writer A business that has been leasing hangar space al the Hastings City-Barry County Airport is being given 18 months to find a different location, as part of a corrective action taken by the Airport Commission Wednesday. It took three tries before lhe commission voted 4-1 to approve a letter that will be sent to the Michigan Depart menlofTransporlation's Office of Aeronautics, agreeing to a corrective action in response to a March 11 letter in which lhe state said that a non-aviation related business was operating at the airport, in viola­ tion of federal guidelines and a lease that was signed in March 2013. The business is Affordable Metal Roofing I.L(', according to commissioners and airport management. Inspectors from the Office of Aeronautics Licensing and Inspection investigated the airport after receiving a complaint front 1 tastings resident Tomy Cordova, who alleged the airport was violating the terms ol tts fed­ eral grants by allowing a non aeron.iuncal business to operate from one ot its bangara. The airport had been given unt.l April .30 o provide a corrective action plan m response to !he letter from Bryan Budds, deputy adminis- induft; meLrab.e and —'e-'e-e^lor X^ Ai^o" < Chninnan R The'leare outlined a series ol |X-nmtted uses lhat include “storage of, and sub-lease of space for the storage of. private aircraft and/or for any avialion-related activities such as maintenance requiring licensed or certified mechanics or personnel, aviation-related manufacturing.” according to Budds’ letter. Holley and Airport Manager Mark Noteboom proposed a corrective plan that would have given Affordable Metal three years to relocate. “We sent in a draft for a corrective plan and it was tentatively approved (by the Office of Aeronautics) as being OK,” Holley said. But commissioners, in a hotly-debated vote, rejected that proposal in a 3-2 vote. “The board was not involved in helping put this together, and I think that’s wrong." com­ mission member Don Bowers said. “What’s the board for, for crying out loud? If you’re going to run it yourselves, just lhe two of y0Ut then 1 guess you don’t need a board.” Noteboom defended the proposal, saying he hiid handled the mailer similarly to how he has responded to other complaints involving the aiqjort. taking action in consultation with Holley. "It has never been a question for us han­ dling these things,’’ Notuboom said. “This was handled in the same manner as all t|K. other complaints and everything else since I started here. So why is this different?” Bowers was joined in opposition by Jon Smelker and Vivian Conner, the two county representatives on the five-member commis­ sion, while Holley and Hastings Mayor Dave Tossava voted in favor of the proposal. “1 feel it is wrong that we're giving this business, a roofing business, a step up over any other roofing business out there and, wherever they’re al. they should have to pay a tax. a property tax.” Smdker said. Bowers proposed giving Affordable Metal one year lo vacate its hangar space, but that measure also failed in a4-l vote. Affordable Metal is o*ncd by Don Smith, who is a member of the Hastings City Council, representing the 'fliird Ward. Noteboom said ’hat Affordable Metal i$ already looking for a new location, bul appeal to commissioners lo give the company tn°re l^an n year to relo­ cate. “If he can find (a space), he’ll Ik- out early,” he said. “But if he can L he II have to buy s«mc kind of property to build (on), h’s going 1° take more than a year, you guys. You can’t do ’hat in a year. Al lcast L’’Ve him two years 10 get out.” ... . Commissioners ’he”>el,,ed on an 18-month c*it window, with onl) Conner voting in °PPosition. The Banner sough’ <?Hnment from Smith °n ’he airport coinn,i2,'ion’s action, but did not receive a respond Press time. Barry 1^0 cancels April board noting . ,he Barn IiJiert”^*1^. Sc,UH)1 District canceled its 'S<X>V^.rfonr,i1n,! in Apnl in reMxwMTto'1* ' l9 shmdowi>. ■ H’esday, Ma) •' QUARANTINE, continued from page 1 ing." Tisdel said. Health department spokeswoman Sarah Surna said dial a contact tracking team has been in regular conlact with residents since the quarantine was issued. In addition, the department has been in contact with many local agencies in Barry County to assist Mallard Pond residents with food, prescription and personal care needs. Some of the agencies assisting residents include: United Way of Barry County, lhe Barry County Commission on Aging, Barry County Emergency Management, CareWell Services of Southwest Michigan and the South Michigan Food Bank. “We’re really happy with the level of coop­ eration and coordination we have had with these valuable Barry’ County resources.” Surna said. ’Die 41 residents of lhe complex are taking the precautions in stride, Tisdel said. “They understand it’s their duly: it’s their small fight in this battle,” she said. "They have been fantastic and very cooperative.” Mallard Pond was built in 2005 and serves seniors 55 years of age and older. A second apartment complex. Quail Ridge, is nearby and also owned by KMG Prestige. No COVID-19 cases have been delected at Quail Ridge, Tisdel said. •• To protect against further spread ofCOVID-19 in lhe greater community, the health department is asking the general public to continue to wash their hands frequently, wear a mask or other facial covering when leaving their homes for essential purposes, frequently clean high-touch surfaces with acleaner approved by the Environmental Protection /Xgency and. most notably, to stay.’ at home except for essential purposes, such as work, medical appointments, or to purchase ‘ necessary supplies. ITte health department has a website with updated information about COVID-19 at. www.barryeaionhealth.org/cov id-19-resources-and-updale More information also can be found at ww w.cdc .gov/coronav irus/ 2019-ncov/inde x. * html and www.michigan.gov/coronavirus. �inion Page 4 — Thursday. April 23, 2020 — The Hastings B*i Did you SCC? Time to start those engines... Spring break ■ Warmer weather and other seasonal ch^nges bring out all sorts ol animals, including skun ’ ’ spring peepers and turtles. This pair P‘™' turtles soaks up spring sun in a pond in Has i 9Township. Wednesday marked the 50th anniver­ sary ol Earth Day. But. these state replies an many others, likely spent it burrowed in tne ’ preparing to emerge when temperatures < more appealing to them. loin h n--fr> * J. tfui Spacr H? n’ njwwna Barn p.'ratf wsd tl lo Ntv irivf. Utting! /. < • M W58; « e^l inforruin't each ar ^hrre and hwts *‘n *' ' phtW. ird afar rrlewnl or aneciiohd infofrauu>n. mmhrn do , { ’ you remember? V _______ _____ - -----------------— Transistor with transition Banner March 12. 1964 Mrs. Ray (Barbara) Jenkins (center) Route 3 Middleville, who has answered thousands of inquiries and requests as secretary in the Hastings Chamber of Commerce office for the past five years, has resigned, and her place has been taken by Mrs. Jerry (Dorotha) Frost (left 230 E. State Road. As a token of appreciation of her achievements with the chamber of commerce. Mrs. Jenkins Monday was presented with a transistor radio by Chamber Manager Robert Jones on behalf of the membership of the Hastings Area Chamber of Commerce. Have you met? The COVID-19 pandemic and resulting restrictions mean a lifestyle change for everyone, including those who provide spiritual guidance. Ministers everywhere are finding ways to deliver comfort with grace, prayer and ingenuity . Linnea Stifler. pastor of Emmanuel Episcopal Church of Hastings, is among the many who have faced, and overcome, some of lhe challenges. “First, it was a steep technological curve to leant to prepare online worship, but I have learned to create YouTube videos and use Facebook Live. That was a superficial but anxiety-producing challenge/’ Stifler. 70. said. “The deeper challenge is seeking, praying a lol about how to support people in a time when fear, grief and other painful emotions so easily take over. “What the Church offers, what Jesus Linnea Stifler himself offers, is the Good News of ‘God with us,’ and lhe assurance of God’s peace, School in 1966. She spent two years at North so different from lhe peace of circumstance Park University and a year back in lhe lhal comes and goes. God’s love and peace is Congo, volunteering as a dorm helper, before the Constant in a daily changing world.” moving to California. She earned a bachelor Stifler has served as parish priest at of arts degree in human development from Emmanuel since May 2017. Pacific Oaks College in Pasadena in 1971, For more than seven years, the She eventually found her way back lo congregation has operated a Saturday Michigan, and on a blind date, met Michael morning community breakfast, open lo the Edward Stiller in Grand Rapids. He is a civil public every weekend. This gathering was a engineer, retired from the Michigan source of great joy to her. until lhe pandemic Department of Environmental Quality. They forced the church to shut it down until further have been married for 46 years. notice. Their three children all graduated from The church also has a commitment to be Cadillac High School. Luke is a librarian in stewards of God’s earth, and last year Louisville. Ky. Dan teaches English in installed a roof-top solar array to reduce Tokyo, and Britta works as an online greenhouse gases. curriculum development specialist in Seattle. The daughter of career missionaries, she “All are married, and we have four moved frequently in childhood. She was grandchildren - a great source of joy.” Stifler bom in Kalamazoo to Robert C. and Ruth said. Ann Peterson. As a child, she lived in lhe tiny Prior io being called to ministry in the town of Northport, as well as the Democratic Episcopal Church. Stifler’s work life Republic of the Congo and Chicago. Her revolved around early childhood education, father was a pastor as well as a teacher and childcare consulting and training, and being principal of a school in the Congo, and her a stay-at-home mom in Cadillac, Mason and mother was a nurse, and the two served as Bakersfield, Calif. dorm parents of a boarding school for In her spare time, she enjoys weaving, missionary' children. singing, kay aking, hiking and reading. Stiller is (he oldest of four children. l or her desire to feed the people of local Twins Dan and Ann Marie work as a doctor community. lx>th physically and spiritually, in Colorado and college professor in Indiana, and for her dedication to a cleaner, healthier respectively. Rick is a college in Maine. environment, Linnea Stiller is this week’s “Il had its challenges,” Stifler said, Banner Bright Light. reflecting on her childhood missionary life. “Third-culture kids - like missionary kids or Favorite childhood memory; My military kids - often feel out of place or not favorite childhood memories ate smells and a part of either the country of their origin or tastes: Eating guavas from the trees in Congo, their adopted county. It can be a somewhat age 4; the smells of the dusty summer din lonely existence." road and bam on my grandparents' lnnn in She started in first grade in the Congo Northport; the smell of the tropical air jp being homeschooled. Second grade was Congo. spent at Northport School, third grade in If I could build anything: Il would be a Chicago, then back to the Congo for fourth house in the woods built over a creek, with a and fifth grades. Sixth grade was in Michigan, glass floor and a speaker so that I could see and seventh grade was in Chicago. She and hear the water underneath skipped eighth grade altogether and then was Favorite cartoon character: I jj^ back lo lhe Congo for ninth and 10th grades. Roadnrnner because, to me. he represents the By her junior year, she was in the U.S. and indomitable human spirit that in app.iren( graduated from Traverse City Sr. High weakness uses cleverness — and humor - to survive, much as oppressed populations have always done. Favorite teacher: Mrs. Edna Dame who taught sixth grade x Northport School She recognized and fostered my love of learning and treated me with great kindness when I felt very lonely as a kid from Congo who didn’t really fit in. First job: I don’t remember my first pay ing job 1 remember working w ith kids in lhe migrant summer program in Northport in high school. What I would tell a high school graduate: One of my definitions of prayer could also be advice for a young person: Show up. pay attention, tell the truth, do your best, detach from the outcome. 1 would also tell a young person to value kindness and be quick to forgive. Person I most admire: In this time. 1 greatly admire the courage of medical people who are caring for those infected with COVID-19. For integrity. I admire a Quaker seminary professor, a long-time peace activist; for wisdom. 1 admire the Christian monk 'Diomas Merton; for trust in God. I admire a Congolese public health doctor who directs lhe nonprofit Giving Back to Africa in Kinshasa. DRCongo; for a balanced sense of self. I admire my husband (who also has a great sense of humor); in history. 1 admire Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Gandhi, and the great saints, bul mv Master is Jesus Christ. Favorite game growing up: At the Ubangi Academy, every Friday night we played outdoor games after dark, mostly variations of tag and hide-and-seek. My favorite was “I See the Witch." Greatest president: The greatest living president, in my opinion, is Barack Obama* because of the breadth of his study and intellect and the depth of his concern for human being*, especial*) lhosc made vulnerable by systemic racism and injustice. I think the greatest histone Pres’dent uas Abraham Lincoln for the ^asonsFavorite dinner: Middle Eastern food: C hicken shawarma with gaf**c saucc’ btbouli salad, hummus and nit i stuffed f’r,1lK loaves, faWel. and rice pu^ing«itbcanbmom Favorite time of the J«r; 1 lov“ ° Week and Easier. Die <Jark Jays of Holy Week give way to resinite"0” j0> lhal b “cs forth throughout Iheeosl**. M ... i ,i ■ , Favorite historic ia'rll>d: We idealize history.^ ince*'3' hl:ll,n“l lunes are/were a mix of h>,nor Brace and cruelty. ingeiWW an4* r hoPc and despair And n' , h ittiBhi have lived like all I*0.1’?’. *O“IU have been called 'a8™5'' “imnitmcnt to the com""’” 'n‘St /■.V nierL'' ,fifes uprrwn H/lo *** Restoring the Michigan economy doesn’t have lo sound like the Indianapolis 500. As a businessman and a citizen who’s been impatiently observing social distancing and stay-at-home guidelines. I am encouraged to sec Gov. Gretchen Whitmer now holding a green flag, even though (here’s a yellow cau­ tion flag in her other hand. Rescinding the executive order as it reach­ es the April 30 expiration date will be a tough call for the governor. On one hand, this nation is facing one of the worst health crises since the 1918-20 worldwide influenza outbreak that killed more than 500 million people. On the other hand, the reality is becoming more apparent every day that, if the economy fails, there will be severe long­ term effects that could lead us into an eco­ nomic depression that would last for years. 1 hale lhe position that coronavirus is put­ ting us in because it appears we’re choosing to either save lives or we’re opting to save jobs and the economy, instead. It sounds unthinkable that a choice like that would even be considered. But how do we make a choice? We don’t, we must do what’s neces­ sary to do both. We’ve done a good job following the guidance of government leaders on slowing down the virus. Bul now it’s time to begin the process of opening up lhe economy. In recent days, thousands have descended on their state capitals to protest restrictions that these citizens fell violated their civil rights. Though television reports showed demon­ strators not wearing masks or observing social distance guidelines, they also commu­ nicated the anxiety and fright of people who. just a few weeks ago, were part of one of the greatest economies of our lifetime. With more than 22 million unemployed and the survival of thousands of businesses being threatened by the shutdown and possible bankruptcy, these people just wanted lo be heard. “The will of lhe people is the only legiti­ mate foundation of any government,” Thomas Jefferson said. During these past few days, we’ve come to see the will of some of the people. In Michigan, at least, that will of demonstrators seems to be that it’s time for lhe governor to revise her earlier approach to protecting the health and the jobs of Michiganders. The restrictions, in some areas, have been too extreme. If proper precautions are in place, how docs helping put people back to work com­ promise the public health? In fact, if you can’t maintain a strong health care system economically, how can you effectively fight the virus? Here in Michigan you can’t purchase flowers from a greenhouse, buy paint to work on your house, allow a commercial landscaper to mow' your lawn, take your motorized boat to lhe lake or even visit your vacation property. Yet. you can purchase liquor, marijuana and a state lottery’ ticket. When I was visiting one of my advertisers, Menard’s, on Monday, sections of lhe store had been roped off to keep customers from buying certain products. How foolish. The customers were already in the store. Why make it so difficult and so frustrating for consumers who are already on edge? Most of lhe protesters at state Capitols weren’t demonstrating for political reasons; they’re just upset with a number of unreason­ able restrictions on their lives. They feel they have the right to purchase certain products and to be able lo fish, plant a garden and mow their yard. They feel they’ve done a good job in following state guidelines, but in this last round of rules, they feel the governor went too far - especially when the greatest threat for coronavirus is concentrated in a few’ counties on lhe east side of the stale. That’s where these decisions create a fine line for our government leaders to walk. Most Michigan counties, because they arc rural, don’t have lhe prevalence of disease like the densely populated east side of the state. Data is showing, however, lhal 80.2 percent of rural counties in the country have reported cases and 19 rural hospitals closed last year. We have lo be vigilant in our reopening of Michigan, but we also have a lot of work to do when this crisis ends. Gov. Whitmer said she has discussed at great length conditions to “phase-in” our economy when it is safe to do so. She said her decision would come from a data-driven approach based on facts from medical experts, epidemiologists and business lead­ ers- Her formula for phase-in comes from /'"’"W ** puzwb'v. hr lhe __________ mg unpreecd industry weather individuals, busmesses an the storm, how much «^going f0 J what is the ja||y as state and local our economy. P federal government governments hxik^heMe^g I > for the finanu schools, to S3?-biS dollars more thanithe ,ilkcs in Prior to tte^ruM was estimated at more uia__ cAOfinn debt that equates to approxtma ely $69M0 for every man. women and child. A recent report from the Government Accountability I Office indicates that the nation is on an "unsustainable” fiscal path. I So. if we don't begin the process of start­ ing the engines of our economy, we won t be able to print and back up enough money to fund the number of business closures and growing unemployment the virus wdl cause. I The money we print may someday be useless I paper because there will no way to pay back what we owe. .... Companies are hurting and there s a growing concern among most businesses | over the lack of demand they’ll experience once they reopen - and how' long it will it lake - before they see consumers back m the stores, eating at their favorite restaurants and planning a family vacation. That s why pro-1 testers are in the streets and why owners of businesses can’t sleep at night. | ft’s easy for our jxMitical leaders to appear! slack in addressing the situation when their salaries have nothing to do with economic I conditions. So many of our elected officials! have never had to meet a payroll, compete in the marketplace and deal with the daily grind of running a business. At this point, the best defense against this virus is a growing economy that has the! money for research and development into! new medical innovations and cures. That’s I an economy with the resources to focus on I the equipment, education and training wc’H need to handle this and all threats in the! future. | It’s possible we may even be inspired to make breakthrough discoveries and practices in our communities of lhe future. Once! we’ve conquered the greatest challenge of our time, wc can turn to some creative think­ ing that’s already coming from educators, medical professionals, and environmental scientists as we adapt to virus guidelines. Maybe distance learning will become a big­ ger tool in education and save us millions. Maybe we can visit our doctors by telehealth connections rather than crowding offices. Maybe we can even find affordable, accept­ able, and effective responses to the growing climate crisis. ; On Monday, the governor announced that she is making plans to start opening up lhe economy. That’s good news to anyone who understands basic economics, because get­ ting lhe engines of our economy moving again will Lake lime. Starting the engines doesn’t mean aban­ doning our brilliant progress in containing this disease by opening the doors and just letting everyone, as one Southern stale gov­ ernor is doing this week, and telling citizens that it s time to “stomp on the gas.” It means creating a plan with sound safely measures to begin the “phase-in” of business and industry’ across the state. Vou can t make decisions based on fear and the possibility of whal might happen," Michelle Obama said. Rather than procrastinate due to the fear of what might happen, pul a plan in place that provides lor reasonable safety measures and begin the process that moves us forward, to an economy we enjoyed just a few months ago. Fred Jacobs, CEO J-Ad Graphics, Inc. Bciniier Coun,y 5,"« r- Hastln0S Banner, Inc. A D’V|S‘°n ol J-Ad Graphics Inc 1351 N 945'9554 ' Far I269’ Mm, Frederic Jacobs Pub^her & CEO • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT Uv> ••-I sro.'/: 830«!-k kj Hank Schuurlno a • NEWSROOM. Rvbwca pK.rw lE(} Kathy Maurer (CcpyEcfar/ Bren (Spans Ed^or) ‘ the process^. (f|c brakcs on our As wc cont lt°n*ncnls acnHS the state economy. gj ()ff or furlough employare beginning y while revenues have ces as costs *n^ s (hc country, governdeclined. An kvd ;ire ng about ment official • (hat wft| jead to lay- The Hastings cfo lol,,,,,..., . J noW it’s lime to start sound judgment - nnd no Ti. SconOrrmei TyGrwntold Miuj G.!nof« Cc'ivwi Eo^toa ________ Jonnx) Yorker Subscription Rsls*: $45 p«r y,ar ;n Bjny Coonsr 550 pff y»or m jC|<j.n:nQ courur-j $55 per i- PO. U4 * �The Hastings Banner -- Thursday, Aori! 23, 2020 — Page 5 To reopen, state needs bi^ boost in CO VID 19 testing Michigan .J. Magazine economy in 10 day. To?'" re<’l*nin8 health the coronavi Positive tests fall Testing rising but still short of goal the state is not close t a °n • 1C ncar bmizon. roarks experts haxc bench* predict \xhich nariK .? mak,n8 11 difficult to and when. hC ecOnnm>’Can Michi»»aii . “S'ing supply short??1^" Whl'mer cited a Since the peak of daily cases in Michigan on April 3, the percental positive tests has declined as testing has increased, a good sign. Even if Michigan ramped up COVID-19 testing to its daily capacity of 11,300 tests, it would fall far short of the standard set by Harvard health researchers. appearances 'and mt'° y CW of ,clcvision days. On Mond .vPreSS gatherings in recent other health ofr'' *iKtr° hospital and Wiftu,.,. 160 50 140 ,nUVh ,hC Sam- in onuge Magazine. supply clnin'IS,<>l|l,r! imProvemenI •" the test lab rc5ulK- -Michigan faces nomrc § 120 its eco­ 5 loo a. U 80 A by ihe'vvk'<,rc>!’Cllcrous criteria announced M ,"C l,OUSe in " Ph«* P'«n crit -ri f K ,lg:‘n s1111 must satisfy threshold o' .? f0r ,CSI,n? (a"d ■» “mas such as hospi‘ « pacity and illnesses in lhe community). /jr. test,nL’« *he federal guidelines require one ot iwo conditions be met: That the number of continued COVID-19 cases decline over a 14-day period, or *Pj^atage of people who test positive must fall for 14 days — provided the number o csts given remains flat or increases over that period ,Kld a<,min‘stcred nearly 114.(XX) coronavirus diagnostic tests as of Sunday, has yet to meet either measure. Daily continued cases of the coronavirus have mostly fallen over the past two weeks, but not consistently. And while the percentage of people who test positive has mostlydropped. the number of tests administered have dropped at limes, too, according to state data. Public health organizations and researchers set their own yardsticks for what level of test­ ing is sufficient. lhe World Health Organization contends b § Source: Michigan Department of Health and Human Services that for a government to reopen, the percent­ age of people testing positive for COVID-19 should be between 3 percent and 12 percent. Michigan is not close. Over the past two weeks on average, nearly 30 percent of Michiganders tested received positive results, MDHHS data show. For three days now. the proportion of tests with positive results has dropped below 21 percent. .. • » equipment. Testing for this infection is woefully unavailable to even the most obvious cases. There are not enough tests to test healthcare workers (take as much time as you need to square this in your mind). This virus is not under control (Jan. 22, Feb. 23, 24. 25, 26.29, March 10, 15). it will not miraculously disappear (Feb. 10. 27), we are not doing “a great job” (Jan 22. Feb. 25. March 5.7.8.10. 18, 29). This virus is not the flu (Feb. 26, March 9,24). The dates in parenthesis are lhe times the president has said these things with one exception: remove lhe word “not.” The “get back to work” crowd has two things in common: They care more about money than people, and they’ve been wrong about this pandemic every step along the way. I am so tired of greed. Eric Anderson, Hastings Reopening economy a priority It is imperative to economic stability and continued public compliance to start reopen­ ing the Michigan economy ASAP. It has been widely reported that the gover­ nor has a national political agenda which may be affecting her decisions. Public trust will be very hard to regain once it is lost. James Tolsma Rutland Charter Township (jCnow Your Legislators Michigan Legislature CnvArnor Gretchen Whitmer. Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. pbnnl /^17) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). P qX Rporesentative Julie Galley, Republican 87th District (All of Barry County), Mirhl^n House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, M| M ,9 OK 373 0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov 48933. Phone (517) J/J Repub|icani 19th District State Senate, Phone 517State Senator Dr. J cc.347.8Oi9. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; u S U ««. , ^nnndant’ 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Justin Amash, ,nd®P®'™ D c 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225. Office Building, Washington,^ • NW Sui|e 460 Grand Rapids Mich 4g503 5144. District office: 110 micihj phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate . „ 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. Debbie Stabenow, Democrdi( 20510, phone (202) senate Office Building Washington. D.C. 20510Garv Peters. Democrat. 2 Russen R Fofd Federa| Bui|dlng Ro 2202?phone (248) ^OW^D.tnct office^ phon(j (616) ■ President's common^ 3121 and the Senate: 1-204 4c Nationally, about 19 percent of coronavirus tests arc positive, according l0 the COVID Tracking Project. A high percentage ol positive tests suggests not enough people are being tested. Michigan is a goodexample of that. In the initial w eeks of the pandemic, Michigan followed strict guidelines set by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, limiting testing to people with serious symptoms because there were not enough tests to go around. That meant those with mild symptoms or none at all were rarely tested. As more people are tested, especially those who have mild or no symptoms, this figure should fall. A team of researchers at Harvard recently announced its own testing measure. The Harvard team said the United States needs to triple its level of testing to 152 tests per 100,(XX) people by May 15 to safely reopen lhe country. Currently in Michigan, testing levels are at 45 |*r 100,000, based on a seven-day rolling average, “We have a long way to go before vaccines are available, and wc need to keep this trans­ mission of COVID-19 in check or we’ll be back to where we were," said Dr. Joseph Eisenberg, chair of the epidemiology depart­ ment at the University of Michigan. He, loo. said Michigan needs a sustained, downward slope of cases and deaths. As social distancing rules relax, adequate levels of testing will help policy makers identify who can return to the workplace and with lon­ ger-term pandemic surveillance. Cracks in the supply chain While state and local governments and health providers in Michigan have significant­ ly ramped up testing, they say they have been repeatedly frustrated by supply chain prob­ lems as the slate loosened guidelines for who can be tested On April 14, Michigan announced that peo­ ple with mild symptoms were eligible for testing. On Monday, it relaxed the guidelines once more; making essential workers eligible whether sick or not. The state is also partner­ ing with Walmart, Walgreens. CVS and Rite Aid to open eight ne*' drive-thru test sites |nformatjon hne (or Congress across the state. “We know, according to all of the epidemi­ ologists and scientists... that robust testing is essential to have confidence about our strate­ gies for safely reducing risk and re-engaging sectors of our economy,” Whitmer said. The state also has posted more information about testing sites and is tracking other sites as they come online. Detroit also broadened testing criteria, announcing Monday that essential workers will no longer need prescriptions for testing al the drive-thru station at the Stale Fairgrounds. Still, Michigan continues to trail many states in the number of tests it has been able to administer, averaging 4,524 tests a day over the past week. Whitmer is one of several governors from both political parties laying the blame on a national shortage of testing supplies. ” l he reagents and the swabs arc absolutely essential.” Whitmer said on NBC Sunday. “You can’t process all these tests if you can’t take the sample and protect it and move for­ ward through testing. And so while our capa­ bilities are there, these important supplies are not.” The state has the capacity to more than double its daily testing — to 11 300 tests a day — through a network of 30 hospitals and commercial labs, said Lynn Sutfin, MDHHS spokeswoman. Bul even if the state reaches that level, it would not be enough. Even at full slate capac­ ity, that would only gel Michigan to about 114 tests per 100,000. far short of lhe 152-pcr100,000 set by Harvard. “Wc are still in need of swabs and transport media, particularly in Southeast Michigan,” Sutfin said. “In addition, testing kits are also needed by hospital labs.” Two major hospital systems echoed that complaint. Beaumont Health and Henry Ford Health System — among the first lo announce they would begin hospital-based testing — are performing at just a fraction of their lab capacity, spokesmen said Monday. Beaumont has been able to conduct just over 10 percent of the tests it could perform National Guard helps prepare food for Barry County Taylor Owens Staff Writer Five members of the National Guard are helping repackage iocd at the South Michigan Food Bank in Battle Creek. Airmen from the 110th Wing, Battle Creek Air National Guard B^es started helping at the base April 17, and am expected to contin­ Ue until mid-May. “We’re really lhaOkful for having the National Guard and our volunteers,” South Michigan Food Bank Advancement Director Summer Sunnock saidThe airmen take fo011 donated from places like Kellogg’s or Post and repackage it for individual distribution- Because of social dis­ tancing guidelines, food *rom the bank has to be packaged separate1) w drive-through dis­ tribution. Last year, the food bank provided 634,072 pounds of food to the Barry County area. Sunnock said. The amount has already gone up more than 50 percent over this time last year, from 160,265 pounds to 240.891 pounds. The primary cause of that increase is the COVID-19 pandemic. Sunnock said. Barry County United Way Director Lani Forbes said food from lhe bank goes to the Fresh Food Initiative and distribution sites such as Middleville, Nashville and Hastings. The South Michigan Food Bank in Battle Creek will be the sixth food distribution site supported by the Michigan National Guard across the state. , Guard members are screened prior lo con­ ducting response activities, and they perform their duties with personnel protective equip­ ment its advised by the Michigan National Guard’s medical staff. More than 600 Michigan National Guard members have been called to active service to aid Michigan’s response since March 18. Across nine counties, members of the National Guard are supporting requests from local communities and state agencies. Other response activities include logistics support for medical equipment, medical screening operations, planning, augmentation and sup­ port for construction of alternate care facili­ ties. The Michigan National Guard has an additional 6.600 members ready to assist at the request of Michigan’s communities. For this week: * «• U S House of Representatives 720^110 Michigan April 18:45 tests per 100,000 (7-day average) 0 . pS 40 20 Trading brutal deaths for profits D ““ 60 8 OAU To the editor: Does everyone know how COVID-19 kills its victims? To put it succinctly, the patient drowns in his or her own fluids. The lungs fill with mucus, making it harder and harder to breathe. The lack of oxygen in the system shuts down the liver and kidneys, and lhe victim dies slowly over the course of three to seven days. Because it is so contagious, the patient is quarantined from everyone else and dies alone in a hospital bed. unable to be visited by family and friends. Doesn’t that sound delightful? In last Saturday’s Reminder, there were several business, political and community leaders featured on the cover who arc ready to “get back lo work.” answering the most leading question I’ve ever read, even as Barr) County’s infection rale continues to rise. Bear with me as I draw an analogy: You. and only you, have the choice between $10,000 in cash and saving someone you don’t know from being brutally tortured to death. You can only choose one. Which do you do? Now, let’s up lhe money to $1 million. How aboul $10 million? Now. lei’s substitute lhe stranger with your mom (or your child). Same amounts. Which do you do? How much benefit arc you willing to accept to allow your mother or child to die a horrible death? How much more w ould you require if you had to watch it? This is w here we are. We are a year, at least, away from a vaccine. We’re way behind the curve on Goal is 152 per d.ty by May 15. according to Harvard researchers — an average of 357 a day instead of the 3,(XX) if could do with enough reagents — the substance added to specimens to detect genet­ ic markers of the virus, spokesman Bob Orticb said. Henry Ford is processing 2(X)-3OO tests a day, but could do more lhan I .(MK) if it had enough swabs, spokeswoman Kim North Shine said Monday. Oakland County opened a testing site last week in partnership with Honor Community Health. The county hopes eventually to run specimens in its own labs. It ordered two machines to do so, but it too hasn’t been able to gel enough testing material, said county spokesman Bill Multan. Central City Integrated Health, in down­ town Detroit, said it was able to score supplies for some 30/XX) lest kits more than a week ago after long hours on calls lo an internation­ al distributor, a factory in China, and a lab in Korea. It was also able to line up a lab to process the tests. But the health clinic said it can’t yet lake advantage of testing capabilities because it lacks personal protective equipment needed so staff can safely administer the tests. “I got confirmation that lhe order will be here this week,” Interim President and CEO Dr. Kimberly Farrow said Monday. Central City would be among the first to offer lhe lest to asymptomatic individuals — an effort that will help contain the spread in southeast Michigan. Tbe clinic said it is plan­ ning to distribute tests to other health clinics as well, and hopes to conduct “mass testing” nt churches and community organizations. “You have people wanting to return to work and they want notices — a letter from the doctor." Farrow said. “But wc can’t necessar­ ily send people back to work with great confi­ dence because we don’t know if they’re still infectious or not.” This waiting game is what makes the sup­ ply issue particularly confounding, according to U-M’s Eisenberg. “It’s not like this is a technological problem or that we don’t have the capability. It’s a supply chain issue,” he said. The federal government, even the military, could play an important role in connecting lhal chain, he said: “You can’t win a war if you run out of food.” Serologic testing Eisenberg and others point to a second set of tests lhal can also offer crucial information to policymakers try ing to determine when and how to safely reopen. Blood tests that detect antibodies to COVID-19. which in theory would help iden­ tify people who gained immunity after having the disease, arc also considered crucial for reopening the stale. But currently available tests, many of which were rushed lo market in response to the pandemic without any scruti­ ny by lhe U.S. Food and Drug Administration, do not all provide accurate or reliable results. And, crucially, given its newness, it is not yet clear if the presence of antibodies to COVID-19 makes a person immune and for how long. Still, doctor’s offices and labs across Michigan have started offering lhe tests, or are looking to purchase them in order to test large numbers of patients. Antibody lest results are not required lo be reported to the slate so it’s impossible to know how many have been administered, or even where they’re offered. Some states are planning for widespread antibody testing. In New York. Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the beginning of largescale antibody testing on Monday, with a goal of testing thousands per day. In Idaho, a non­ profit group called Crush the Curve Idaho is offering diagnostic and antibody tests to any­ one in the state regardless of symptoms or risk level. What do y°u The April 16 pt)U economy to start of our readers s*1®’ think? ^sked if h’s Important to Michigan’s R buck to work in May. Here’s what one Response to thc A?riJ.!6 WMIon: 1 think it is in1J*r, hom./*^Verncr decides on lhe next steps yarding the of °n science. data, expanded and the j Kd,cal experts - not on some arbitrary ^dhne.This lraged* ha> been much ^orse by the lat^^„ ti* ., ntffcclu»i response from lhe admmisin Wa<h’”-C(‘ j provide .Cni°r has done an outstanding job lr*ng to save li^ ‘ CCOnomk Purees for the people in Local government bodies and school boards are opting to meet remotely during the government shutdown. Are these remote sessions a good idea? Why or why not? Should these remote sessions continue once the shutdown ends? our slate and I’m very disappointed in the recent whining about hav­ ing to slay home. Talk to a health care worker on the front lines or a person whose loved one died alone in lhe hospital and then tell me it’s OK to just go back to normal. In my opinion, without extensive testing to know if is safe to be around people, it will not be safe to open every tiling up. People I’ve talked to who have had lhe virus, even young people, have had very severe symptoms for weeks. (By lhe wav, a good poll question does not lead lhe responder lo a fore­ gone conclusion.) Agreed' Hopefully, wr did a bitter job on this week's question. �Page 6 — Thursday, April 23, 2020 — The Hastings Banner I___ Phylli.LEIlen Hsln-£.s_— Charles John Cross Leolyn Aileen Gerber Leolyn Aileen Gerber, age 96. of Battle Creek, passed away Wednesday. April 15, 2020 at Stoncridge Assisted Living in Bellevue. ~ , She was bom February 6. 1924 in Bedford Township, the daughter of Clifford and Katherine (Douglas) Palmiter. Lee attended grade school in Bedford and graduated from Battle Crek Central High School in 1942. She graduated from Community Hospital School of Nursing as a registered nurse in 1945. Lee had the opportunity to spend the last six months of her training as a U.S. Cadet Nurse at the Naval Hospital in Seattle Washington. Leolyn married Arthur W. Gerber on December 16, 1945 and Arthur preceded her in death in 2019. She is survived by her children. Joel Gerber and Rita (Alan) Zinke; daughter-in­ law, Judy Gerber, former daughters-in-law. Dianne Gerber, and Julie Eascy; 12 grandchildren; 26 great grandchildren; eight step great grandchildren; several adopted great grandchildren; and two nephews and a niece. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sons, Bruce and Eric Gerber; brother, Gilbert Palmiter; and great grandson.Troy Harris. Due to the Governor mandate of funerals being limited to strictly no more than 10 people, the family will be having a private service for Lee. Burial will be at the Bedford Cemetery in Bedford Township. Ill Jieu of flowers memorial tributes may be‘made to Stoneridge Assisted Living or Grace Hospice. Arrangements by the Bachman Hcbble Funeral Service. (269) 965-5145 www’.bachmanhebble.com Charles John Cross. Sr., “Jack”, of Hastings died on April 19, 2020 in Grand Rapids, at age 82. He was bom on April 24, 1937 in Grand Rapids. Jack graduated from Hastings High School. He honorably served his country’ in the Navy during the Korean War. He married Brenda Ann Hatfield on March 4. 1967. He earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal law and worked for the Hastings City Police Department where he retired as a sergeant. He became a minister at Community of Christ Church. He volunteered at Thomapple Manor. He loved history and war documentaries. Jack was preceded in death by his parents Charles Allen and Geraldine Edith (Price) Cross; brother. Gerald Cross and sister-in­ law, Sharon Cross. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Brenda; son John (Holly) Cross of Woodland; daughter, Charlotte Cross of Hastings; grandchildren, Brandon, Johnny, Victoria, Hannah. Micheal and Lynn; great grandchildren. Braelyn, Aiden, DJ, Nova. Brcxtyn. Connor, and Luna; brother. Robert (Nadia) Cross of Independence. MO; sister. Janet (Edwin) Ford of Wyoming; brother. Michael Cross of Woodland and many nieces and nephews. There will be a memorial service on August 1, 2020. There will be more information to follow. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. To leave an online condolence, visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net. See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS Phyllis Ellen Haines. 99. 11 l°v’nB mother, and grandmother, died peacefully on Friday, April 17, 2020, surrounded by her family in Hastings. " Phyllis was born November 30, 1920 in Vermontville, the daughter of the late William Hamilton and Leta Gale (Green) Northrup. She graduated from Vermontville High School before attending Melba School of Cosmetology jn Lansing. She married Merle Haines in Angola IN on December 3, 1938. They lived briefly in Charlotte and Albion until Merle was called to serve in WW1I. After the war they relocated to Vermontville where she owned her own beauty shop. The two moved to Hastings, where they raised their family and Phyllis went to work as a cashier at Felpausch Grocery Store. She earned National Cashier of the Year, and eventually worked her way into corporate headquarters as the company treasurer. Following her time in the grocery business, she went to work as the City Treasurer ol Hastings in lhe mid-1960s, retiring in 1980. Above all. Phyllis was most proud of nearly 63 years of happy marriage to Merle, and her family. Phyllis is survived by her five sons. William C. (Carolyn) Haines of Holt, Merle Bradley Haines of Hastings, Mark /Man (Turid) Haines of Ftnrem. Norway, John Charles (Diane) Ilaipcs of 'Hastings, and Peter Jeffrey (Ron^e) Haines of Spring Lake; 14 grandcKWren; 14 great­ grandchildren: and sista, Barbara Harrison of Lake Wales, FL. • She was predeceased by her husband, Merle L. Haines in 2001; sister. Kathryn Bartholomew in 2006; daughter-in-law. Kathryn Haines in 20l9;and brother-in-law, Les Harrison in 2019. Phyllis and Merle will be joined together and buried at Woodlawn Cemetery in Vermontville and a memorial service will take place once travel restrictions arc lifted. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to United Way/Fresh Food Initiatives. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Phyllis on her Tribute Page at ww wTrayFuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte. Christopher 0. Meier, a loving devoted father and son. P»,SM‘ peacefully at the Inpatient Hospice I nil Tampa General Hospital on March -- . ~ ~ He spent his last night in hospice with nts middle son, Lyle at his side. He s P peacefully, and took his final bre.i i * 11:00am as his wife. Eliza, took his han • Chris was preceded in death by nis biological father Chuck Meier II, step-father Sam Shriver, Grandpa and Grandma Bns to , Grandpa and Grandma Michaud, brot icr Rex, step-brother Robert Shriver, his uncle Stu Meier, his father- and mother-in-law Dick and Maria Lincoln, brothers* in-la* Richard, Bernard and Harry Lincoln. Chris is survived by his dearest mother Deanna Shriver and step-lather Ervin together fixing machines in Tununak, Alaska. Gaskill, loving brother Chuck Meier HI and Dick best described Chris’s love of educat.on wife Christy, step-brothers Paul Shriver, Sam •IS- ‘’Chris teaches from his heart. He has a Shriver and his wife Mary, step-sister tack for helping his students to excel tn Carmen; his most beloved wife Eliza understanding, and in achieving unbounded (Lincoln) Meier, his three loving children. Faith. Lyle and Henry: his grandson and best was a rock for bis children, an friend, Rory Meier: his aunties Linda, endless well of wisdom, and will be dearly Sharon, Barbara and her husband AL missed. Chris and his wife Eliza shared 31 Marilynn and her husband Bruce; his in-laws, Cathy, Mary, Peter. Daniel, Hazel. beautiful years together, cherishing every Xavier and Jeffery: and numerous cousins, minute. , • _ lt;, Chris donated his Ixxly to science. Hts nieces and nephews; Chris was bom on zXpril 24, 1959 to Chuck family plans to hold his memorial ceremony Meier II and Deanna (Bristol) Shriver in at a future date. Hastings. He lived in Hastings until he Memories of Chris Meier graduated High School in 1977. He then By Chuck Meier traveled lo Phoenix. AR and studied for his Chris was a great brother and one of my tech license. From there he moved to Ithaca, NY to attend Cornell College and acquire his best friends. He had an insatiable desire for degree in information technology. Shortly learning coupled with an adventurer s spirit. after he (raveled to England and spent six One year I was home for Christmas break months living with his brother Chuck. from living overseas and could not use my Afterward he moved lo California, staying return ticket as I had to stay longer for with his brother for the year that he was training. Chris was 20 and I offered him my there. When he could, he would drive his ticket to England. He jumped at the offer, got motorcycle across the country lo visit his late a passport and left a few days later; a week before I returned. We enjoyed the next Grandpa and Grandma Bristol in Michigan. Being adventurous, Chris eventually sixmonths together and created many wound up in Alaska. He got a job as an IT memories. tech at UAF and continued his education, About five years later, I was living in obtaining his B/\ in elementary education California with my family and invited Chris and later a PhD in Eeducation from UAA. to come stay with me again. He got a job and Chris met his wife, Eliza, at UAF. He would had been there about a year when there were joke, “We acquired our Mr. & Mrs. Degree friends from church moving up to Alaska and there Tire pair have been partners since looking for someone to help with the drive. 1989. They strove to adventure together for Again, up for an adventure. Chris said as long as the Lord permitted them, and as a "sure!’’ and within a week he was on his way. result gained many experiences. These He fell in love with Alaska and eventually translated to numerous memories, retold to fell in love with a local girl, Eliza, who mesmerized audiences. became his wife of 28 years and mother of Chris loved life, and was a genuine their children; Faith, Lyle and Henry. He scientist at heart. An intellectual, he never stx)n found himself working in education and ceased to improve his knowledge of life. He continued on to become a school principle challenged himself to gain perfection. A working in many remote areas such as month before his passing, Chris experienced Platinum, Bethel and Castroville. He had a personal revelation. He become one with adventures there that many of us could only his creator’s perfected state of being. This imagine. helped him to reach Peace as he revealed and Family and friends meant a lot to Chris and rejoiced in the miracle that God had gifted he consistently made lhe long trips from hi in. Alaska on an annual basis to spend lime with Chris and his late father-in-law, Dick them. Our lives are better as a result of Lincoln, shared a camaraderie while working knowing him and he will Ire greatly missed. Bottle returns dosed for (duration of stay-home order 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits Blazing Fast Internet! VOU LOVE TOCETHEBI^I *19." Dorothy Anne Byers, age 90. of Bellevue, passed away Tuesday, April 21,2020. She was bom August 14. 1929 in Battle Greek, the daughter of Charles and Dorothy (Aiken) Albert. She married Clifford “Bud" Byers on January 25, 1947 in Battle Creek. Bud preceded Dorothy in death in 2016. Dorothy retired from the U.S. Postal Service after 10 plus years of service. She enjoyed painting and loved spending time with her family. She is survived by her children, Julie Wickham, Ron (Marsha) Byers, Norm (Patty) Byers. Paul (Nancy) Byers, and Robin (Craig) Vaughan; 17 grandchildren; 37 great grandchildren; (wo great great grandchildren; siblings. Carol (Chris) Brown and Jim (Sharon) Albert; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Charles Albert. Margaret Finley. Jean Wilcox, Bill Albert. June Miller, and Joe Albert. A private family service will be held at a later date. Arrangements by the Bachman Hebble Funeral Service. (269)965-5145 www. bachnKinhebble.com 2-YEARTV PRICE GUARANTEE $59”? 190 CHANNELS Grow MOREL MUSHROOMS CREATE A VCREL GARDEN IN YOUR BACK YARD Wc ptin ide lhe* seed A!id cuy to inijrutlioM fcr pryMing an outdo** AA'/r/Z/aMcr Youjust sia» the i<tJ. nuintain the Word Hahitjt, xnd pkk and rrijiA ptHuufacf frv.h Month - lndudin9 Local Channel , „„ 1^55-382-2485 <Ksh A 02.95 * $8.65 S/11 - ORDER 707-829-7301 GOURMET MUSHROOMS PO BOX515CN9* GRATON, CA 95444 www.gmushrooms.org OPEN Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 945-9673 'Pray Tbr Our Milton K- A. MUELLER ACCOUNTS 221 South Jefferson Street Hastings, Michigan (269) 945-3547 www.kamuelleraccounting.co^ MlfH\HK|\MY PLUMBING 7l Mas*« Mumbtr QUESTIONS: ASK UU . .. . 945-9673 OKN Ux-1., Sjlrla/ Warn -3pr <w>. Day hv.it,H,m Office (269) 948-224X Luke Frondieck Staff Writer Bottle returns across the state have been deemed nonessential and therefore closed for lhe duration of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe" order. At the Walmart store in Hastings, bot­ tle returns machines have signs covering the ports where bottles and cans would normally be inserted. For Prairieville Township Trustee Richard Van Niman. lhe collection of bottles and cans is necessary for public safety. I think they are throwing them in lhe trash, or the cans are going to the land­ fill,” Van Niman said, “which is too bad." Returnable bottles and cans won’t go bad sitting in a garage or basement, so when the governor lifts the stay-home order, the items will most likely be worth the same as they were before, Prairieville Township Clerk Rod Goebel said he believes the biggest lh.e boMle reIun,s being closed will be the long lines and short tempers when they finally open back up agaih Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads . • • . ■ ; �Pl |A| 5 The Hastings Banner - Thursday. April 23. 2020 — Page 7 Middle School announces honor roll ?' A and B grades. ' > or Those sshl,qila|jl-i<xl.i)di^ ”*I"S earning all Sixth grade Annemane AIlXT"’ Aiden Bylc. jillic c.,us"8' sAsh|y" Bailey, Matthew bonlcni ,ns- Spencer Crozier, Bronson Elliott, Uu\l'a,1o',c Drake. Riley Herron. Daniel Jen Slcn!l GunnAdriana Meyers JalT"^""" “^ik. Rose. Josalyn Russel Shca'* a8h Matthew Shults Collin*-! Shrubb lvVanEngen. M» e W r?“aVa- Matach. Wilson. "‘Herman, and Gracic As and B's AJCXandcr« Kooper Arg­o, Aden Bell rx?,n^’ ?C,h Gavyn Avila. Carter C'niL? c?a.Buchcr- Madison Chipman. Nella ipG; Shiloh Crandall. Cohen Denton. Kyle An|,.l,dW’ Madison Elzinga. f'r, Cr^-°? I'orcll, Madison Fortier. Sophia Groenfield, Tanner Hill, Gabrielle Jcrzyk. JncquUyHn jo|lns|on> Cnkb Kijmcr Natnjee toge, Alexander Kohineschcr, Isaak v,n, rt‘ $lai,dia Minch, Ava Noteboom. < ay lee Olin, Kaylcc Owen, Jovany Ramirez, nsher Rathbun, Carisa Rosenberger. Dcagan banders. Rendell Shinnult, Bailey Smith. Nyrvc Snider, Carleigh Stonehouse. Brayden rhielen, Angelina Waterman, Lucas Waterman, and Lainey Westworth. Seventh grade Principals List Jett Barnum. Andrew Cook, Isabel Gee. Rachel Hewitt, Jordan Humphrey. Micah Johnson. Jortbn^jcm Nimmons” Ulyah Si'...... ........... ......... ’K and Mclany Var#15*^ llltd B\ 'Dinner Aller‘l"’^’.\llbrie Ui'linlv'V?™1'1,1 Beard.ZoeyAlexiaCunl Sri8a> Bower. Taylor C^nnison. G • 3r'-'i'na Darling. En,,nf .^Flikkemti, i p;' ..nn' Irislin Eaton. AK* JoPec “,a '>«• Benjamin 1'“°’’. ’u.fines. Lo,.. ' n Grimes. Andre'' Kensinii icnr>'Danica Kecny. Logan Kerby. Rachel K'"-'(i|c4 fj *” p™ncd> li-wis Alan ‘ Vvi.. y’ Ue°ndre Mathis. Hayley Mi,lpbariman’T'?-Ashk>' Norris. Alisandm P Seth Pinie. a^'ltier. Zoe Watson, and I irisfii Wright. Eighth grade Principal's List I-u<-'y Barnard, Abigail Beemer, Dekota Blough, Abigail Byykkoncn. Owen Carroll, Diego C'oipcl, l,||y C’omensoli, Chad Dico. Alexandria Herder, Allison Kerbs, Madysen Kue.stncr, Olivia Meeker, Natalie Minch, Aiden Morton. Adeline Nickels, Charles Nickels, Abigail Peake, Alexie Roberts, Riley Shults, Reuben Solmes. Sophia Sunior, Vikasini Survi, Lauren Taylor. Olivia White, Adrianne VanDenburg. and Audrey Vertalkn. A‘s and B’s Mason Bailey, Blake Barnum, Brayden Bits. Phoebe Birchfield. M.ikayla Birman, David BoKlord. Kaccy Campbell. Kaylie Carl, Trey Casey. Jordyn Downs, Lauren Drabik, Kimber Fenstemakcr, Skylar FcnMemaker, Alexander Hames. Heath Hays, David files. Shiann Kidder. Sarah Lichvar. Camilla Loss. Jarred Love, Kaitlyn Moore, Reopen Morrison. Luciana Pearlman, Bailey Pennock, Natalie R.uniiez. Raedyn Rathbun, Ciarra Rea. Lila Rea. Kai Richardson, Isabelle Roosien, Aidcn .SaintAmour. Grady Scharping. Brennan Sensiba, William Smalley. Ellie Smith. I an Sorensen. Partricia Sue, Jonah Iced. Preston Vnndcpol. Ryan Van Dorp, Natalie Warner, and Zane Warner. Elaine (Jarlock Rising temperatures have brought us an early spring. Forsythia bushes are in full bloom. Rhubarb plants arc several inches high.The early spring flowers are still looking great. Some homeowners have mowed their lawns lor the first time. We see lhe village truck making its rounds lo pick up brush and bagged lawn refuse, largely last year’s left­ over leaves that held tight in flower beds for the winter. Can yard sales be far behind? There are still no meetings to report since we are still quarantined to our homes except for errands during which we are supposed to have minimum human contact. Bruce Garlock of Big Rapids went to his mother’s rescue this week, bringing along his mower. This is one way to get rid of hist year’s leftover dry leaves. Yes. he wore a mask. Twice each year lhe sexton and helpers at Lakeside Cemetery do concrete work to pre­ pare bases for new markers. This i.s the week for such work. Likewise, it is time for artifi­ cial Howers from last year to be removed. Members of Central United Methodist C hurch have been notified by mail of the appointment of a new pastor who will be coming July I to replace Rev. Dominic Tommy who is retiring. The new pastor will be Rev. Dr. Vaughn Thurston-Cox, whose wife is currently pastor of lhe UMC at Wacousta. He has previously served at Sunfield and Mulliken, among others. They have a daughter who is 5 years old. Members of lhe Staff-Parish Committee have already met him when he was introduced to them (via modern technology ) by District Superintendent Jerry DeVine. Hayley Rasey. „ ,. ’ur- Keygan Robinson. Abigail V.inF),.„tin *blmmc, * ‘ Nicklas Stehr. Kay*nw: nDul»crg. Alexya USDA tool to help rural communities address COVID-19 pandemic ' U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue Monday unveiled a one-stop-shop of federal programs that can be used by rural communi­ ties, organizations and individuals impacted by lhe COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 Federal Rural Resource Guide is a first-of-itskind resource for rural leaders looking tor federal funding and partnership opportunities lo help address this pandemic. USDA is committed to being a strong part­ ner to rural communities preparing for and impacted by COVID-19. Perdue said. “This resource guide will help our rural leaders, whether they are in agriculture, cdu- SYNOPSIS Hastings Charter Township Regular Meeting April 14, 2020 Meeting called to order at 7:00 p.m. Seven board members present Approved oil consent agwtta items Approved Library Board representative Approved Liability Insurance renewal ' Approved parking lot work Approved payment of bills Dept, reports received and put on file Motion to adjourn 7:22 pm Respectfully submitted, Anita S. Menncll - Clerk Attested to by Jim Brown - Supervisor 140282 STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL CIRCUIT - FAMILY DIVISION BARRY COUNTY PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING FOR NAME CHANGE CASE NO. and JUDGE 20-28477-NC Court address 206 W. Court Street. Suite 302 Hastings. Ml 49058 Court Telephone No. 269-945-1390 tn the matter of Arnie Lyd-a Richey. TO ALL PERSONS, Including whose address Is unkown and whoso interest in the matter may be barred or affected by tho following: TAKE NOTICE: A hearing will be held on April 29. 2020 at 2:45 p.m. at 206 W. Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings. Ml 49058 before Judge William M. Doherty to change the name of Am.e Lydia Richey to Arnie Samantha Frei. Attention homeowner If you are a military service member on active duty, If your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or If you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for tho party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. Notice of foreclosure by advertisement. Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600 3212. that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by n sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, start.ng promptly at 1.00 PM on MAY 21,2020. The amount due on tho mortgage may bo greater on the day of the sate. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle tho purchaser to free and dear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds off.ee or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Carol Jean Risner, surviving spouse, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/or assigns, Mortgagee, dated October 4 2006 and recorded October 18. 2006 in Instrument Number 1171615 Barry County Records, Michigan. Said mortgage is now held by Deutsche Bank National Trust Company. asTrustee, on behalf of the holders of the J.R Morgan Mortgage Acqu.sition Trust 2007-HE1 Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificates. Series 2007-HE1. by assignment. There is claimed to Bo due at the date hereof tho sum of Sixty-Seven Thousand Six Hundred Eighty-Four and 66/100 Dollars (S67.684.66). Under the power of sale contained in sard mortgage and the statute in such case .made and provided, notice is hereby gwen thatsaid। "’’hgago W.II be foreclosed by a sale of the "-"W* premises, or some part of them at pubhcvendue at me place of holding tho circuit court •-'thin Barry preXT are S “Xhip of Orangeville. Barry County Michigan, and are LOT 39 OF UtPHAMS AIRPORT LOTS, BEING A PART OF ^J’^cORDING 2 NORTH, RANGE 10 ^T, ^CCORD^IG TO THE PlAT THEREOF RECORDED N OFFICE OF REGISTER GREEDS FOR BARR COUNTY. PARCEL 2: LOT 57 AND THE NOHHi 14 FEET OF LOT 40 OF LAPF LOTS. ACCORDING TO THE OF THE THEREOF. BEING PART OF THE WEST 1/2 OF THb NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 8, AND PART OF Tl WEST 1/2 OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF SE T O TOWN 2 NORTH. RANGE 10 WEST O^NGE TOWNSHIP. BARRY COUNTY, 49344 579/ Marsh Road. Shelbyville, The redemption period shall be 6 m • f date of such sale, unless determined abandons in accordance with MCLA §600.3241a. m • redemption penod sha'I be 30 days from date of Guch’iale. , «ale. >1 the property is sold nt fo^*- “ ^’w.ii Pursuant to MCL 600 3278. the borr 1)6 he’d responsible to the person v ^7^ property at the mortgage loreclosum sate Mortgage ho'der for damage to the propc y the redemption period. Deted: Apnl 2.2020 [Mte. 20-003617 Firm Name: Orlans PC rf T,oy Ml firm Address: 1650 West B-g Beavef Road. 7 Phone Number: (248) 502.1400 104 02X04-23) 1396/6 cation, health care «°'hcr leadership capacity, understand » • c oral assistance is available for their during this unprecedented lime. ••’ • USDA has taken many immediate actions to assist fanners, ranchers, producers, rural communities, and mml-oascd businesses and organizations impacted ny the COVID-19 pandemic, he added. The guide is available m rd.usda.gov/sitcx/ dcfaull/files/USDA^COVID-19_Fed_Rural_ < Resource_Guide.pdf More information on these actions can be found at usda.gov/coronavirus. J^ewbom babies Layne Gordon CJrifTin, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on January' 29. 2020 to Ashley Griffin and Jason Griffin of Hastings. Ella Lynn Joann Philo, bom al Spectrum Health Pennock on March 25. 2020 to Andrea Philo of Hastings. March 31. 2020 to Bnielyn Cheney and Lucas Cheney of Nashville. Lincoln, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on March 31,2020 to Kayla Richardson and Aaron Richardson of Dewitt. Nova Lee Rose Shadwell, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on March 25. 2020 to Beretta Fisher and Colleen Shadwell of Hastings. Manage Evelyn Mae Borrello, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on March 26, 2020 to Grace Julia Agrella and Michael Jno Borrello II of Grandville. Preston Glen Charles Potter, bom al Spectrum Health Pennock on March 28.2020 to Ashley Potter and Austin Potter of Hastings. Taclyr, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on Financial Christopher Alexander Woodward. Delton and Emily Esther Thompson. Lake Odessa Madeline Estelle Hicks. Shelbyville and Joseph Michael Pappas.Grand Rapids Menno J. Detweiler. Dowling and Laura L. Miller. Nashville FOCUS Provided by the Barry County officii oj Ed ward Jones Jim Lundin 2169 W.M-43-Hwy., Suite A Hastings, Ml 49058 (269)818-0423 Member SIPC Jeff Domenico, AAMSO 450 Meadovr Run Dr. Suite 100 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-8265 Time to “go i green” with your investments? O\er the past several weeks, many of us ha\e been working from home in response to the “social distancing’’ necessitated by the coronavirus. Nonethe­ less, we still have opportunities lo get outside and enjoy Mother Nature. And now, with the 50lh anniversary of Earth Day being celebrated on April 22, it’s im­ portant to appreciate lhe need to protect our environment. Of course, you can do so in many­ ways - including the way you invest. Some investors are support­ ing the environment through “sustainable” investing, which is often called ESG (environ­ mental, social and corporate governance) investing. In gen­ eral, it refers to investments in businesses whose products and services are considered favorable to the physical en­ vironment (such as companies that produce renewable energy or that act to reduce their own carbon footprints) or the social environment (such as firms that follow ethical business practic­ es or pursue important societal goals, such as inclusion and pay equity). HSG investing may also screen out investments in companies lhat produce prod­ ucts some people find objeelionable. ESG investing has become popular in recent years, and not just with individuals; ma­ jor inslitutiunal investors now pursue sustainabihty because they think it s profitable - and Plem> of facts bear that out. rte-X8 °f ^^ntic research has found a positive re auonship between collate financial performance - that is aFsrT<.'Sp,°r,Ubili'v-ad tSG criteria. ' So a|th0ugh you might inihally be attracted to sustain, vi investments because thev ‘ "ilb Personal ' £ or because you want companies to hkh-r . / d of corporate ctenTd3t<IS lutns out that you „„ J P' 1! by doing good. Keen "e 'bough that sustainabilihm'|"|d' any other criteria, am’t'.: k 'ce/'necess or present In any case, be sustainableunWjn ’ ,lul escanvarysignjflca-n;PI,™‘cbneed to determine how u’n r°U ular sustainable invest™ W”'c' cteofinveslmX^Vr "iih your salucs and fi,”8" your overall portfolio c lntf° ically, how m|| a ’ ^Pccifinvcstnicm meet yourU„ta‘?ab,c divcrsilkafion? >OUrnc^for l or example, if y total control 0Vcr money is invested v?' your '<> invest in 'a^^ individual slocks from the com­ panies you'vish to support. But if you want to achieve greater diversification, plus receive the benefits of professional management, you might want to invest in sustainable mu­ tual funds- Be aware, though, lhat eventhough they may not market themselves as “sustain­ able,” man) more mutual funds do incorporate sustainability criteria *nl° l*le’r investment processes- You also might con­ sider exchange-traded funds (LTfs). "hich 0Wn 3 variety of invest.015’ similar to regu­ lar mutual funds, but trade like stocks. often track partic­ ular indc*e!s so an l.TF with a sustainahh’ locus might track an indei including companies that have hecn screened for soMake >UK You understand the fundjnicnla^ °l any sUslain3Hcin'tfMn,cnt>ou,rc con­ sidering as whether it rin hclp>0U'Jork lo'vardy our long-ter11's’ But by -going L-reen” *°mc >our vestme^-4->.°U help keep erv da)‘ Flawed! <rag® carets Dr. Universe, Why are carrots orange? Caden, 11. North Carolina Dear Caden. When you picture the carrot section at a grocer} store in the United States, you probabl\ imagine rows of orange. But carrots can come in a rainbow of other colors, including purple, yellow, red. and more. And the first carrots weren’t orange at all. They were stark white. ’Dial’s what I learned from Tim Waters, a vegetable specialist at Washington Stale University Extension. He studies how to grow different kinds of vegetables and helps others learn how to grow them. too. Carrots you eat today are domesticated. Domestication happens when humans tame wild plants or animals for many generations. Over a long period of time, people bred the carrot ancestors for traits such as sweet taste and attractive color. Domestication helps explain how wolves became dogs, and how teosinte became maize, h’s also how a wild white root became sweet and orange. “Before carrots were domesticated, they were believed to be white and very’ bitter and woody,” Waters said. “When people began domesticating them, the first types that were bred and fed upon by humans were purple and yellowish in color.” Scientists think people first domesticated carrots in Central Asia around 1.100 years ago. Even though the first carrots weren’t as sweet as the ones you eat today, people probably weren’t eating the roots “It’s known that carrots were first grown primarily for seed and the uses of leaves. Waters said. But as more colors emerged, the taste ol the roots improved, and they became the more valuable part of the carrot. We don’t know exactly when lhe first orange carrots appeared. But we have a good A x L • •' Dr. Universe lh) you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington Stale University’s resident scientist and writer at Dr.Unn er sd^ wsu.edu or visit her n ehs ite, us kdr uni verse .com. • Tr.idition.il and Crvtnatioti Services . i^ptuining Services Ix,t ’ Handicap Accessible in^Mills • Prv arrangement Iransfcrs Accepted y (11 lued idea of why that color stuck around: Because humans liked it. “Orange wasn’t a naturally occurring color. It was kind of a genetic flaw, and then it was selected for,” Waters said. One story says orange carrots became popular in the Netherlands in the 16(X)s. Orange became the national color, so orange carrots were supposedly associated with the royal family and William of Orange. But orange carrots probably weren’t bred by the Dutch. They just became more popular there. Over lime, orange carrots became the most common variety in some parts of the world. “That’s really why. in Western society, every body perceives carnits to lie orange,” Waters said. But that orange color isn’t just for looks. Orange carrots are packed with chemicals called carotenoids — specifically, beta-caro­ tene. Your body turns beta-carotene into vitamin A. which helps you grow and pro­ tects you from getting sick. Beta-carotene isn’t just nutritious. It’s also loaded with orange pigment. That’s why vegetables with lots of beta-carotene — like sweet potatoes, squash and pump­ kins — share the same color. Bui what about that rainbow of other car­ rot colors? Drey have their own special qualities, too. Purple carrots gel their color from loads of anthocyanin, a chemical that is healthy for your heart. Carrot breeders have even created carrots with multiple colors. You can get the best of both worlds: a carrot that is orange on the inside, purple on the outside. Jtmei f'*l,hnuial MmhcfSIPC i»..h iiiiu.. K.k. Owner Manager T4 528 s- Hastings, Ml 49058 269-915-3252 • w-ww.girrhachfiinrralhomc.net antilv Owned and Operated 1l <wn»»y ' ■ .hJlr’I..,', owner iiuoim. Serving H.iMtog* h*,rn ((,u,n' aiul ''urr'»oiubng (lor SUvearx �Pago 8 — ThurMtay. Apnl 23. ?020 - Tho Hastingr. Banner Pogo ■ -«■■■■■ Hastings principals report on material distribution for remote learni..g tcach- . -------- —------------- * Contributing Writer Along with lhe governor's executive order that closed schools for the remainder of lhe 2019-20 school year is the requirement that school districts provide the opportunity for remote learning to students. Part of implementing the remote learning plan is material distribution. The pick-up days for materials, such as Chromebook computers and instructional packets, started last Thurs ay for many Hastings students. During Monday s virtual board ofcducation meeting. Hastings Area School System principals gave reports on how the distribution process play ed out. Central Elementary Principal Sarah Geukes reported that 100 Chromebooks.were checked out. and 90 percent of the school s families picked up the prepared packets Special education teachers also prepared packets for each individual student, she said. “A lot of teachers are using a blended model where they have materials in packets or they have materials online, and a lot of fami­ lies are utilizing both of those." Geukcs said. Considering Monday was the first day of remote learning for students, glitches and issues lhat come with online learning were worked out. “There was a lol of troubleshooting hap­ pening today, but lhe teachers have done an amazing job,” Gcukes said. Some of them, technology is easy for them and something they have already utilized a lol in their class­ room, and for some of them, technology is not as natural, and they are doing jusl a great job trying lo adapt and help each other and work together as a team.” Amy Smclker. principal of Star Elementary', reported lhal 136 Chromebooks were checked oulThursday, and after a couple home deliveries, all of the packets were dis­ tributed. A mix of teachers and parents helped in running the distribution system. ; “My parents, my (instructional assistants] and my teachers all helped us to make it hap­ ‘ am ilJSt trvino "These are just trying times, but it's great to see everyone working together and helping each other out and making this as positive as possible." Eric Heide, Northeastern Elementary Principal pen,” she said. “I really appreciate them.” Southeastern Elementary used a drive-up system to distribute materials. “We did it a little different,” Dana Stein, Southeastern elementary principal, said. “We had a car pull-up system through our morning drop off lane, and we had teachers that had everything ready to roll Thursday.” Positive messages, greeters, and “Hastings strong” face masks were all seen at Southeastern during the pick-up day. Stein reported that 83 Chromebooks were checked out Thursday. Ninety-three percent of the packets were picked up. And, with some extended effort, they were able to reach 100 percent distribution. “I had a teacher that ran around all day Friday, dropping off packets to families local­ ly. and today I did a little bit of driving, and I did a little bit of mailing, and Southeastern has hit 100 percent of packets going out to every single student,” Stein said. Northeastern Elementary' Principal Eric Heide reported lhat after some home visits, they too, were able to reach all of the Northeastern students. “Today I made five more home visits, and wc have connected now with all 334 of our students.” Like nwny ofthe0thcr)icJ’?O,u ab Cn<1<>f Knstl Erb and nddetic secretary Cheryl ?'.afr. and and parentshell**' Non'«<’P . staff helpedW * ’ ■ . Heide also reported tl»a< the ^^nictional “They spent every day last week up here assistants have reached 10 °^er Edition with me putting packets together to offer to support to the 12 students with individual our students and families.” she said. reading instruction plans. Along with provid­ During the two-day distribution process. ing extra support, sonic teachers are even 173 packets, 76 graphing calculators, and 94 connecting in other way*Chromebooks were picked up. Among the “We had a third-grade teacher who sent seniors, 142 different combinations of cap and out birthday cards this l»sl weck’ and 1 ran gowns orders were distributed Friday, with into a neighbor of the third-gra(,c student, and five orders left to distribute. they couldn’t wait to tell rnc how excited the A station was set up to distribute winter third-grader was to receive a birthday card sport certificates and other awards to students. from her teacher,” he said. “These are just “Teachers arc troopers, and I support them trying times, but jt*s great to sec everyone in everything they’re doing, and I’m really working together and helping each other out proud of them,” she said. “So, we had a good and making this as positive as possible.” show and I’m looking forward to the next Beth Stevens, the middle school principal, one.” reported lhat 252 packets were picked up. 105 The next date for students or parents to Chromebooks were checked out. and every pick up materials will be Thursday. April 30. teacher is up and running on Google “Our pick-up dales arc every two weeks,” Classroom. Remenap said. “Wc intentionally did our “We even have our counselors handing pick-ups on specific dates so we could be sure out career lessons, and social and emotional we had enough information, enough work, lessons, and making contact with all the stu­ and so we are limiting traffic at our buildings dents." she said. so wc can keep them clean, rather than having They are working to contact a handful of constant traffic during shutdown.” students, Stevens said. Board of education president Luke "By the end of this week, our goal is to Haywood expressed his gratitude toward the have made connection with every student in individuals working to make this distribution our building,” she said. “So, 1 can’t say process possible. enough about our staff »nd how they are “Thank you very much to all the efforts of working together and the creative lessons that the administrators leading their teams to roll they’re posting on Google Classroom." out this very’ challenging and dynamic and High School Principal Teresa Heide fluid plan,” Haywood said. “We appreciate reported that they had a lot to offer the stu­ your efforts. And to parents that are listening, dents. They had a big enterprise going with thank you for your understanding, and please many different jobs to fill in order to stay be patient. We will be adjusting and making compliant with the U.S. Centers for Disease changes as wc encounter obstacles. Feel free Control, she said. to reach out to building administrators with "It couldn’t have happened without staff specific concerns or problems.” stepping in. parents stepping in. We had some During public comment, Emily Edger also senior partners from the senior group that expressed appreciation for the teachers. stepped in. as well. It was just great for every­ ”1 just want to say a huge thank you to you body to come together.” she said. all, but an extra special thank you to the teach­ She gave a special shout-out to secretary ers.” she said. “I have been blown away by the suppo CrS ambers Mike .Nickels and Vai “srr..—:i-last couple board meetings like 'hey beeAlsohC during the meeting. Remenap addressed questions about graduation and he grading process for the rema.n e of Jhc school year. He clarified that no decrease from where they were March 13, h Inst day before schools were initially closed temporarily by the governor's executive order. SlTmged Ltyone with specific questions to contact their building administrators. In regard to graduation, no date has been set due to lhe uncertainty ol how long he precautionary measures will be taken or e COVID-19 virus. “We are not ready to put a date out there for graduation simply because if we set a date, it would be relatively arbitrary. Remenap said. "We have no idea whal this pandemic might look like mid-June or even mid-July at this point. So, my fear in putting a date out there is that we’d have to cancel and resched­ ule, and we’ve done that with a number of things this year. If there are senior parents, if there are seniors listening or watching, know that we haven’t forgotten about you. but we are not ready to put a date to an actual gradu­ ation ceremony yet.” Board member Jennifer Eastman conclud­ ed the meeting with a final comment express­ ing appreciation. “I would just like to say thank you. every­ one has been amazing. They put a lol of lime and effort into everything, and it’s worked out very well, so kudos to everyone," she said. "Il’s a great day to be a Saxon!" Triage tents removed for Treasury issues guidance about new tax deadlines now; testing continues With effective social distancing slowing the surge of COVID- 19 patients in West Michigan, Spectrum Health has changed workflows for patients showing symptoms of lhat coronavirus. “With the current volume of patients arriving at our regional hospitals with con­ cerns for COVID- 19, wc have workflows and protections in place that allow for effec­ tive assessment, testing and treatment while keeping other patients and team members safe,” Steven Marzolf, chief nursing officer, said. “This can be managed within the exist­ ing structures of our hospitals.” As a result, the COVID-19 triage tents at its regional hospitals, including Spectrum Health Pennock Hospital, have been removed. The tents were intended for use as a strategy to rapidly assess and cohort large volumes of patients presenting with symp­ toms consistent with COVID-19. "We’ve been able to accommodate outpa­ tient testing efficiently using a drive-up protocol at our regional hospitals,” Bernie Jore. chief operating officer, said. "We do .still anticipate a surge, although hopefully with ongoing social distancing, this will be more manageable. "If volumes increase dramatically, we can redeploy the tents in a matter of hours." Spectrum Health offers free virtual C0V1D-19 screenings lo anyone with symp­ toms and for those who are concerned that they have lhe virus. The purpose is to pre­ vent the spread of illness by enabling people lo seek lhe information they need from their homes, while making it convenient for them. Call 1-833-5594)658 to schedule a free vir­ tual screening. Anyone with severe or life-threatening symptoms should call 911. Testing requires an appointment so screen­ ing is lhe first step in the process. Driver arrested for second OWI offense The Hastings City Police received a call regarding a reckless driver at 9:30 p.m. April 15. The caller reported the suspect was driving on the wrong side of the road and nearly hit their vehicle. An officer slopped the vehicle on Green Street near Church Street, and noticed the driver, a 24-year-old Hastings woman, appeared lo be intoxicated. Her speech was slurred and she was unsteady on her feet. Several empty alcohol containers were in her vehicle. She had a blood alcohol content of 0.17 and was arrested for her second operating while intoxicated offense. Taser confiscated after traffic stop A Hastings City Police officer stopped a vehicle without a license plate in the 600 block of East Thom Street at 12:53 p.m. April 14. The driver, a 34-ycar-old Hastings woman, produced a temporary' Indiana registration plate for the car. The officer asked the woman if she had any weapons and she replied that she had a Taser in the center console, for her protection. She admitted she did not have a concealed license permit to carry the Taser, due to a prior felony conviction. The Taser was seized as evidence and a report was forwarded to the Barry County Prosecutor’s Office. Trailer and log splitter stolen from business The Barry County Sheriff’s Office responded lo an alarm at lhe Hastings Tractor Supply Company in Hastings. A deputy discovered lhe security cable and alarm cable had been cut. An employee determined that a trailer and log splitter, which have a combined value of $3,300, had been stolen. Driver sideswipes police cruiser A Barry County Sheriff's Office police cruiser was southbound on Gurd Road al 10:14 p.m. April 20, when it was struck by another vehicle. A Chevrolet Impala crossed the cen­ terline into the lane of the cruiser, a Chevrolet Tahoe. The cruiser attempted lo avoid contact with the vehicle, and drove onto the shoulder of the roadway, striking a mailbox. The Impala sideswiped lhe cruiser; there were no injuries. 'l he driver was issued a citation, and a small bag of marijuana was found in the vehicle along w ilh other drugs and paraphernalia Information was forwarded to the prosecutor’s office. Equipment stolen from maintenance truck A maintenance company employee reported equipment stolen out ol his tiuck, which was parked in a Jot in the 1(XX) block of South Yankee Springs Road in Rutland Charter Township on the night of April 14. The employee said he had been parking in the lot for the past five weeks. Items stolen included two chainsaws, oils, rope, Ixxly harness and more, totaling $2,675 in value. A// estimated tax payments now due July, 15 The Michigan Department ol Treasury has issued additional taxpayer guidance about new state income tax return filing and payment deadlines, income lax extensions and estimated tax payments. "We are continuously evaluating how wc can assist residentsand businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Stale Treasurer Rachael Eubanks smJ. ‘‘Changing some of the state’s filing and payment deadlines can help individuals and btriuusses figure out their next steps Individual*, who are owed a tax refund should not wait to file their income tax returns." Under Executive Order 2020-26 signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer,all April state income tax filing deadlines in Michigan have been pushed back to July as a part of continued efforts to help Michiganders during the COVID-19 pandemic. Individual income lax returns and payments due April 15 are now due before midnight July 15. Businesses that file corporate income tax annual returns by April 30 have until July 31 to file and pay. All penalties and interest will be waived until the new deadlines in July. Businesses lhat pay corporate income taxes are typically larger and known as C corporations. S corporations and limited liability coqiorations typically pay taxes through the stale’s individual income tax. Individual taxpayers who need additional time to file beyond the July 15 deadline may­ request an extension to Oct. 15. Taxpayers requesting additional time to file should estimate their tax liability and pay any taxes owed by July 15 to avoid additional interest and penalties. A calendar-year corporate taxpayer requesting an eight-mouth extension to file a state corporate income lax return ’nusl subniil that request and pay the appropriate amount of tax by July 31. flie extended annual return FollowW® HcistiRSte % Banner Facebook to keep up to date until the new edition is printed’ remains due Dec. 31. With the April 15 estimated tax payment deadline previously extended until July 15, lhe state treasury department also has follow ed the Internal Revenue Service and is moving the second quarter June 15 estimated tax deadline to July 15. For most individual and business taxpayers, this means both lhe first and second quarter estimated tax payments are now' due July 15. When submitting tax payments, businesses should include their Federal Employee Identification Number. Individuals should write lhe last four digits of their Social Security number on lhe memo line of the check or electronic payment to ensure the payment can be matched to the account. Payment vouchers should be included with tax payments, when available. Taxpayers who arc owed a refund arc encouraged to file their slate income lax returns so they can receive their refunds. More information about e-filing is available at michigan.gov/mifastfile. More about Michigan’s taxes can be found at michigan.gov/taxes. . Mother and child not hurt to rollover accident Barry County sheriff’s deputies responded to a single-vehicle rollover crash on M-43 near Willits Road at 6:13 a.m. April 20. A 26-year-old Bellevue woman was driving with a 1-year-old passenger, when the vehicle in front of her braked suddenly to turn left onto Willits Road. The woman swerved to avoid a collision, went off the road and rolled over. Both the woman and lhe infant were checked at the scene, then released without injuries, police said. Local governments request portion of CARES Act funds Tlie more than 1,800 Michigan local gov­ ernments lhal are on the front lines, respond­ ing to the COVID-19 pandemic, are calling for the state to share a portion of CARES Act funding with local communities. The Michigan Municipal League, lhe Michigan Association of Counties and the Michigan Townships Associations sent a joint letter to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and state leaders Friday thanking them for their leader­ ship during this crisis and seeking their con­ tinued support. Specifically, local governments are urging lhe slate to use some of the nearly $4 billion Michigan is receiving from the CARES Act to support local governments of all sizes affect­ ed by this pandemic. l-ocal officials and their employees are providing public health and mental health assistance and enforcing lhe many executive orders enacted while continuing to do all lhe other essential services our citizens need tire and police protection, waler, sewer and waste collection services, and elections. “It’s vital lhat the stale share this CARES .Act revenue because the response on lhe ground is being coordinated by local govern­ ments who are devoting every available resource to (his pandemic w hile our revenue is vanishing.” said Dan Gilmartin, CEO and executive director of the Michigan Municipal L eague. "Finding more efficiencies and fur­ ther cuts to essential services will not solve lhe impact of the coronavirus on local govern­ ments. "We need lhe state’s partnership and sup­ port in this time of crisis.” The letter urges slate leaders to set aside an equitable amount of money for local units of government to draw from to reimburse their eligible, COVID-relatcd expenses. Based on the amount the CARES Act made available to the state’s five largest municipal­ ities. with populations of 500.000 or more, the three organizations asked lhat an equitable per capita amount, equal to approximately $1.1 billion, be made available to all other local units of government in Michigan io cover these expenses. "Assistance to local governments is vital at this time as Michigan’s local governments bore the brunt of the last recession and many are ill-positioned to face another economic downturn without significant support from the state and federal government.” said Stephan Currie, executive director of MAC. “With that fact in mind, our three organizations respect­ fully request that the governor designate a significant portion of the current CARES Act funding the stale is set to receive to cover local government reimbursements and recov­ ery expenses resulting from the current pan­ demic." The pivotal role local governments have in fighting this pandemic is a fact reflected in the provisions of lhe CARES Act to support slate and local governments. However, there is a disconnect in federal stimulus act provisions between the largest local governments and all other local unite. The federal legislation relies upon the states to distribute reimbursements ... a"*' Ur cnIlllc.s- 'vhid' 'he Mate of • tichigan can do from its remaining $3 i bil lion allocation. Dl xYe|arc,<1fCep!^ al’Precia(i' v Of the CARES Act federal funding lor our state as Michie m weathers unforeseeable impacts due to th" crisis, said Neil Sheridan MTa » • Sector “However, it is hnpc . th ! local governments are not left behind An equitable distribution ot . CARES Act funding is cruci to h ku a‘C ' Coronavtros Relief vuiwl _ receives X7 h;i cation - its .heexpected Xt S', MAC m . ................... ">e a"0‘ �Bicyclists rode through area long before Barry-Roubaix fl look back at the stories and columns on local history 4 In the Hastings Banner // turning BflGK THE PAGES < 1 he Barry-Roubaix normally would bring thousands of bicyclists, spectators and volunteers to Barry County this rime of year, but COV ID-19-rclated restrictions have postponed the event until the fall. The world's largest gravel mad race put Barry' County on the bicyclists' map beginning in 2009, but bicycling groups have been making stops here for decades. Below are some clippings from the Banner archives related to bicycling in the county. Banner July 13, 1950 Enthusiastic cyclists from seven states tour through Barry Sharp enthusiastic young men and women — seven girls and three boys — spent two nights in Barry County this week as pari of a trip that will take them through five Midwestern states — on bicycles. The tourists, who get where they’re going by “boy power” and “girl power” — spent Sunday night at the Clear Lake camp south of Dowling and Monday night in the Yankee Springs area. Two members of the group, Esther KIcppcr, 14, and Frances Edwards, 18. both of Brooklyn, N.Y.. sparkled when interviewed by a Banner staff man. Eager to see everything there is to see. the two girls “just loved” the facilities at the Clear Lake camp where they had ridden Sunday from Eaton Rapids. The one-day trip from Ann Arbor to Eaton Rapids was a “tough 51 miles, and when we got lo Eaton Rapids, we were even glad to sleep out under the stars,” Fran said. The group is on a tour sponsored by the /Xmerican Youth Hostel, which has its headquarters at 6 East 39th St.. New York City. Among the 10 are young people from New Jersey. Pennsylvania. Connecticut, Virginia. Illinois, Colorado and. of course, Brooklyn. Their leader is Miss Cora Maram, of the Bronx, a teacher with a mathematics major. None of the party knew another until they met in the Detroit Youth Hostel headquarters Sunday and Monday of last week. Fran and Esther met two others from their area in the Grand Central terminal Sunday, July 2. when they left for the Motor City. They arrived in Detroit at 2 p.m. lhe next day. They left Detroit Wednesday, going to Chelsea, and when they visited Hastings, they had traveled 190 miles sightseeing. Tuesday, they were to cycle to Holland, then visit Muskegon and Ludington, where they planned to take the ferry across to Wisconsin. Members of the group ride English touring bikes, which have three gears and hand brakes. They cany’ their belongings in two saddle bags, plus sleeping bags. Fran estimated that the five-wcck tour would cost her about $175 in all — including rail fare from New York to Detroit. They pay 40 cents each night for lodging at the hostels placed throughout the area. They do their own cooking and housekeeping, each member sharing the work. Their schedule calls for them to take a train once in a while during their tour of Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Michigan, but mostly they just pedal along. Fran w'rinklcd her nose and exclaimed that she generally pedaled along behind. Banner Sept. 9, 1965 Two Middleville lads bicycle for 800 miles Two rather tired bul happy boys relumed to their homes in Middleville Tuesday after having completed an 800-mile bike ride. They arc Rick Dooling, 18, son of Mr. and .Mrs. Harold Dooling, and Jim Bush, 17, son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Bush Jr. The boys left Sunday, Aug. 29. from McCords, pedaling to Cadillac. Petoskey, St. Ignace. Canada, Mackinac Island, then following US-2 across lhe Upper Peninsula into Wisconsin. . t {On the return trip] they took the Clipper across [from Wisconsin to Muskegon] and arrived in Grand Rapids Sept. 7. There was only one accident, and that a minor one. As they were riding through Fond du Lac, Wis., in the rain, a car skidded and slid into Jim’s bike. He. however, saw it coming and jumped, so that he was not hurt, and his bicycle remained intact. The boys are “chalking this trip up” as a wonderful experience. Banner Aug. 4, 1975 Seattle students, bound for w orld tour, make stop here A group of Seattle, Wash., students and their teacher, hot and tired under the torrid Michigan sun, remained undaunted in their goal to circle the globe as they made a refreshment stop at the B&R Kaf-Ay [restaurant on State Street in downtown Hastings] here Thursday morning. Under the leadership of their teacher. Bob Ellis, eight members off the Bush School SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Action needed for certain beneficiaries with dependents Social Security beneficiaries and Supplemental Security Income recipients who don’t file tax returns will start receiving their automatic Economic Impact Payments directly from the U.S. Treasury Department soon. People receiving benefits who did not file 2018 or 2019 taxes, and have qualifying children under age 17, however, shou not wait for their automatic $1,200 individual payment. They should immediately go to the IRS webpage irs.gov/coronavinis/non-fiiereentcr-payment-info-here and visit the > oi Filers: Enter Payment Info Here section > provide their information. SSI recipients need to take this ac ion y Inter lhe end of April. By taking this proactive step to e information on the IRS website abou them •*nd their qualifying children, they wi •* receive the $500 per-dependent child paymen ‘fl addition to their $1,200 individual payment. If beneficiaries in this group do not provi c dteir information to the IRS s(*?n’ Payment at this lime will be $1,200. I^P’ u<<1 then be required to file a tax lax return to obtain the additional jxr cr‘l6blc child. . . I ttrge Social Security and SSI recipicn s Bicyclists enroule around the world, include (from left) Francisca Martin of Vermont, Rob Raine, Debbie Hofer, Mary Boyar, Steve Ellis, Helen Anderson, Bob Ellis and Matt Rice. with qualifying children who do not normally file taxes to take action now,” Social Security Commissioner Andrew Saul said. “Immediately go to lRS.gov so that you will receive the full amount of the Economic Impact Payments you and your family are eligible for.” People with Direct Express debit cards who enter information at the IRS’s website should complete al) of the mandatory questions, but they may leave the bank account information section blank since the Treasury' Department already has their Direct Express information on file. Additionally, any new beneficiaries since Jan. 1 of either Social Security or SSI benefits, who did not file a tax return for 2018 or 2019, also will need to go to the IRS’s Non-Filers website to enter their information since they will not receive automatic payments from the Treasury Department. Vonda Van Til, the public affairs specialist for West Michigan, continues to take questions. Individuals may write her do Social Security \dministratlon, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids Ml 49525 or via email to vonda. vantil@sMW>v- Nothing like cycling — Riding bicycles has always been a lot of fun and a great sport. And cycling is even growing in popularity. Members of the Hastings High School Bicycle Club, with Dennis Storrs as the sponsor, have been taking advantage of the nice weather and taking bike tours. Here, they are getting set for one of their first of the season. They rode 26 miles to Middleville and back. There are about 40 in the club. (Undated Banner photo) Cycle Club left June 14 from Seattle and drops, we did not get wet again for the entire don’t expect to return home until Sept 1, trip. The fee ($75) we paid for the privilege of 1976. During this time, (he group will trek joining the group paid for all our meals, across the country to New York from where snacks and campgrounds. If anyone asked for they’ll fly to Portugal, visiting Southern something to eat that Sandy didn’t have, it Europe, [before fly ing .to] South Asia and showed up the next day (everything from beer Japan. During their stay in Tunisia, the to strawberries). Sandy Kimbrough of the Kalamazoo students will do volunteer Peace Crops work. Countries on the agenda also include Italy, Bicycle Club was the ride leader — also Yugoslavia. Greece. Turkey, Syria, Iraq, Iran. mother, father, boss, and chief cook and bottle Afghanistan, Pakistan. India, Bangladesh, washer. She did a magnificent job of taking care of us. Thailand and Malaysia. The students are sponsored by the Raleigh Monday night was spent al the Otter Lake Super Crown Mark II bike company and KOA campground near Otisville in Genesee Eclipse Inc., of Ann Arbor, which makes County. I pitched my tent as soon as I got off carrier bags and tents. The students have the bike because I’d never have had the really planned and dedicated themselves to energy to do it later. The backs of my legs hurt lhe trip. so I could hardly pick up my feet to walk. Working jobs and car washes, students They didn’t hurt while I was riding, thank raised $5,800 per person and also earned a heavens. By Wednesday night, they no longer share [for] another member of the group who hurt, and I fell belter every day after lhat. was unable lo work. And still it didn’t come Tuesday, we had to pedal against the wind easy, for they also had to meet other stiff without benefit of hills (down, of course) to requirements, including special Red Cross give us rest, however brief. Ninety miles later, bicycle mechanics courses, world history and wc dragged into camp, exhausted. religion and language courses. Every member 1 could never see why cyclists always speaks at least one of lhe languages of every seem to want an absence of hills. If there are country they will visit. downs to compensate for the ups. you get a After their pause and breakfast, the touring chance to recover from the exertion of the group left Hastings for Charlotte and points climb. east, with exciting visions of the world before Wc went through Bay City and camped at them. River Bend Campground near Omer in Arenac And their parting shot was a very good County. I didn’t pay much attention to the word for the food and service at B&R Kaf-Ay. sights Tuesday, since I spent all my energy concentrating on turning the pedals. Wednesday morning about an hour out of The following clipping from the July 31, camp, a bear cub lumbered across the road in 1978, Banner is not about visiting cyclists, but front of the group I was with. Later, there rather from the perspective of a contributing were acres of strawberries on both sides of the writer from Hastings who took a bike ride road, w'ith signs saying, “Pick your own. It was suggested that everyone pick a quart and north through Michigan. have Sandy make a shortcake. It didn’t happen, but we did have strawberries to eat out of hand the next night. One of the sights we enjoyed was largo Springs in the center of Iosco County. There arc 300 steps (actual count ranged from 295 to 310) down to lhe springs, which are beautiful beyond words. And my camera Was in the sag wagon! Then on to Cheboygan. I have been on other long-distance bicycle tours and have found that bicyclists have one thing in common: Sharing. More food than you can eat? Someone will help you out. A cardiologist from Illinois shared wine with lhe group one night. “The more you drink the less I have to,” he said. One disappointment was that we didn’t get lo ride across the Mackinac Bridge. Usually, any group of bicyclists who makes arrangements in advance can bike across early in the morning or late at night. We picked a day too close to the Fourth of July and were told there would be too much traffic. Five* vehicles, two club and three private, transported us across. * Then it was Saturday, and by evening, we were at Tahquamenon Falls and very sorry it was all over. Because you cannot reserve a state campground for less than four days, and we had enough money in the kilty, Sandy booked rooms at a motel just south of the bridge for 40 people. The bike club rented two station wagons to take us back to Kalamazoo, and lhe drivers with the two wagons that accompanied us transported every one who was going back to the motel for the night and to Kalamazoo Sunday. I hope they do it again next year. I’ll be one of the first to sign up. Hell to Paradise* on a bicycle tour Sunday evening, 25,40 of the oldest kids you ever saw gathered al Hell Creek Ranch near Hell to begin a 430-mile bicycle ride to Paradise. All but seven or eight were over 30, and the eldest was 67. Eck had been a champion bicycle racer in Sweden before he came to this country, and weather permitting, he keeps in shape by cycling 39 to 50 miles every day. . A couple in their j s rode a 15-speed tandem. They could run everyone, even the raccrs, into the ground over a long distance. Their average speed miles per hour, and they could maintain it allday with a break f°r lunch and a short break both morning and afternoon. . The youngest ,hree 15-year“Msandone Monday morninj dark and wet. and 40 people and onC P,cnic table were Packed under a 15-^ s9l«are of canvas. Sardines anyone? Aft? ^akfast, we were our map sliced 1°' htt di»y and a blue granite cup that wa> 10 . Avenir of the ^..andsemonodr^^. rhe weather "•‘’.fjay -n?. a. beautiful Ul> wind pushed us ,1k,,a‘" Hu" b>’ n>«n and except W “ ““d a vc,y fcw Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Tor Sale CARRON SPORT AIR 1 Jock­ ey Table. $300.00 OBO. Phone 269-908-1654. _______ _ KASSON 10FT OAK Pool Table, excellent condition. S 1,000.00 or OBO. 269-908­ 1654 Tor Reni DELTON, MICHIGAN- SE­ NIOR Subsidized housing for people who are 62-years and older with certain income restrictions. 1-hedroom apart­ ments available. Non-smok­ ing, secured facility. Clo^ to downtown Delton. Call for more information al 2n9-62. • 4000 or TTY National Relay 711. Equal Housing Oppor­ tunity. Business Services BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, While Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)816-7793, MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 2o9-804-750t>. BELLS CONSTRUCTION-18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements. Dis­ count for Seniors & Veterans. 2o9-320-3890. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: AU ica! cv.i’e arikemdsf m is xuSjttt • > tlx I ij H.ktihi; jaI the M.Oupa Ci»il R:,bn A.t i<Jkun-!y iivdr '.t iikpi L» >J»erti*e “i.iy yrefc-vrxe. iim.Utiion or . i! xnnltut:m ba se J «>« rxr. voter, rthjao.-t, sex. harxl:,<p. • MU -114! onj.n *£<• Pt !jurt.e Mjtjy, cr a;< iplci.tiiM, t>j ruU • urrUKOOC.Iimitencflor diKtim.’ui, m." I jt;> h •? ,uns> tcUuJet children wuler Ast the art of IS hting with ixirtt.u nr !<g>J i-J-Jid.-.,. prej-u : wcA.-n w;. .a j tutuxjy v.vkt U Ihs sxt-.ji.pcr »»ii: .-><< <r«cp< jny e.uue Hh .r n in m <■' lb- Jav, Ch.r i.-c Stichy ifdittnxd th*: &;J ' . h.-;t ■ l;, I- . ..... .. ,.rt Ate 1>.'. IJ+- on an r.:. i. . fs • ' lo tep»»rt J.sirtmiravKi I A t |l< 1 Center C 29BQ. the Hl Ot ai frcx tclrpKw nutibce for the heJtin$ imp*ir«d n ) '/r7-V27 j. ‘ ' ’ �at-bats will be for Adrian Future Buckner 10 — Thursday. April 23, 2020 — The Hastings Banner ; Brett Bremer • KMIoer teammates this spring, but it was not , , ti dL to the concerns over the C0VID-I9 Sport* Editvr Hailey Buckner smacked a hard ground hall through the left side of the Union City defense and raced around lhe bases for an RBI triple with two-out in the bottom ol the sixth inning of last June’s Division 3 District Final hosted by the Union City varsity girls softball virw She is shll looking toward to the pos­ able upcoming travel hall season with HaCiledonia Chaos, a progtatn winch nwhides a couple of her Delton senior teammates, but her next victories to a school program will have to wait until she is on campus at Adrian team. , Buckner’s Delton Kellogg teammate Lizzy Fichtner singled into right to score Buckner and the celebration of a 10-0 victory and a second-straight district championship for l,lc Panthers commenced. A junior nt the time. Buckner expected many more victories with her reluming Dv ton f*Bwkwr 'i':"1'1 hcr Nnli,’nal lx',,cr of Intent to join the Adrian Women s Softball prepram in Dec ember at Delton Kellogg High ScIlOOl. - rx . , •‘I look a aunpux visit there in October and it felt like home to me,” Buckner said. “It felt like a home away from home. 1 loved the pELTON Dolton Kellogg senior Hailey Bucker is joined by her parents, Jason Buckner and Nicki Buckner, as she signs her National Letter of Intent to join the Adrian College Women's Softball program next season. Buckner had her signing day in early December at Delton Kellogg High School. Delton Kellogg's Hailey Bucker awaits a pitch in the batters box during her team's 2019 Division 3 District Final in Union City where the Panthers claimed their second consecutive district championship. (File photo) environment and the people, the softball pro­ gram. I felt it was a good way to continue my (softball) career.” She plans to study exercise science and physical therapy at Adrian, a course not uncommon among high school athletes have had to go through their own courses of physi­ cal therapy. “I went through physical therapy over the summer for a shoulder injury," Buckner said, “lhat is really when 1 started considering physical therapy. I’m *<»n active person and I enjoy helping others, so I thought it was a good fit for me.” Buckner has been a shortstop and pitcher for the Panthers since earning a sjxit on the varsity as a freshman. She swapped back and forth with classmate Erin Kapteyn between pitcher and shortstop their sophomore season, and spent time in the circle for lhe Panthers early on in her junior season as well before the shoulder injur)- limited her to a role as only a batter. She was a starting pitcher for the Panthers in at least one of the games on open­ ing }lay in each ot hi; jhree varsity seasons, and throw a no hitter later on in her sophomore yeai’agunst Hackett Catholic Prep. Buckner noticed her shoulder hurting during a practice w ith the Panthers last spring and the pain only increased during the next day’s game. “It was lough. It was definitely a tough thing to go through. It was hard lo not be able lo fully play lhe sport lhat I love, my number one sport.” Buckner said. ”Bul is also taught me how to be a leader in a different area. Instead of playing the field and being able lo hit, I was learning how to be a leader and DH and how to be positive about that. I still was able to hit.” She kept right on hilling. She was l-for-2 with a mn scored in her team’s district semifi­ nal win over Bronson last June, and then went 2-for-2 with a triple two runs scored and two RBI in lhe district final. She came closer to scoring than any Panther in her team’s final bailgame last June, a I -0 loss to Coloma in lhe Division 3 Regional Semifinals. Buckner sin­ gled to lead off lhe bottom of lhe second inning and got to third with nobody out, but was eventually forced out at home as the Comets kept their shutout intact. Coloma would score a single run in the top of the third inning of lhat regional semifinal. The Comets’ pitcher Megan Koenigshof, a member of Grand Valley Slate University’s 2020 signing class, single^! to lead-off lhe inning, stole second andthird and then came home on a ground out. Koenigshof and DK pitcher Erin Kapteyn and their teammates trailed zeroes lhe rest the of the bailgame. The Delton Kellogg juniors had no way lo know that those would be their final varsity innings in maroon and white. “We lost 1-0, but it was a close and tough game,” Buckner said. “It was very competi­ tive. I know wc lost, but I am very proud of how we performed. Wc put up a good fight. Buckner started playing softball about ten years ago after gaining interest by playing Wiffic ball with her father, Jason, in the back­ yard at home. She began playing travel ball in seventh grade, and hooked up with lhe Caledonia Chaos in the summer of 2018. Through the stay-at-home order. Buckner has been checking in with friends and team­ mates when she can through FaceTime or by texting. She said it was sad cleaning out her locker a week ago when Delton Kellogg High School was open for lhal. As far as softball, Buckner has been pitch­ ing and hitting off a tee on her ow n. Sometimes she goes to a nearby ball field and hits balls tossed from her dad. “1 just want to be able to be the best that I can be and 1 just want to keep working towards the goals I want to accomplish,” Buckner >aid. “Right now-. I am looking for­ ward to our last travel season. 1 want to work hard and be in good condition for travel sea­ son. 1 want to work hard and continue to improve my game. I am also looking forward to college and preparing for that, not just soft­ ball-wise.” □ Crooked Lake pwmp sOD runnmg Wall Lake permit submitted a i Luke Fronchcck Stuff Writer ‘ Drain Commissioner Jim Dull is continuing work on flooding projects throughout Barry County. In one of his most recent activities, a permit was submitted to lhe Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy regard­ Conservation District get $750k to help protect natural resources The Barry Conservation District has received a $762,740 award from lhe USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Regional Conservation Partnership Program to support the Thomapple-Knlamazoo Water Quality Partnership. This partnership leverages an additional local matching amount to improve water qual­ ity and aquatic habitat in the Thomapple, Gun and Rabbit River watersheds. The Thomapple-Kalamazoo Water Quality Partnership will build upon existing commu­ nity partnerships and implement farmer-led and landowner-led conservation practices in the Gun. Rabbit and Thomapple River water­ sheds. These practices include filler strips, grassed waterways, nutrient management, residue and tillage management, reduced till­ age. riparian forest buffers, tree and shrub establishment, brush management, herba­ ceous plant management, pollinator habitat, wetland restoration, and culvert and road stream crossing improvements. The main partners for this project, along with the Barry Conservation District, include the Match-E-Bc-Nash-She-Wish Band of llottawatomi Indians. Allegan Conservation District and Pierce Cedar Creek Institute. “Thanks to the effort and generosity of these entities and many other partners, we will be able to make measurable improve­ ments and protect water quality and habitat for people, fish, wildlife and invertebrates through the Ihornapplc Kalamazoo Water Quality Partnership,’ BCD director Sarah Nelson said in a press release. • “It is an honor to be a part of such a woncfcrtul project in my home watershed," BCD Watershed Coordinator David Comeau said. "The funding provided by lhe RCPP will undoubtedly sent not only lo protect our waler resources but also to benefit lhe com munity in the area by providing funding and technical support to farmers and other land­ owners to help them continue to be some of lhe greatest stewards of our soil and water resources.” In total, the regional program is investing in 48 conservation projects across 29 slates. NRCS will award $206 million for these 48 RCPP projects while leveraging nearly $300 million in partner contributions. “I’m excited to announce the first RCPP awards under the 2018 Farm Bill,” NRCS Chief Matthew Lohr said. “Through collabo­ ration and aligning our resources toward a common goal, we’re making an impact for natural resource conservation that could never have been realized on our own.” Ilic Regional Conservation Partnership Program uses a partner-driven approach to fund innovative solutions to natural resource challenges. Through RCPP. the Natural Resources Conservation Service and partners work together with private landowners and producers to implement a variety of conserva­ tion activities, including land management practices and systems, short-term land rentals, conservation easements and watershed struc­ tures. The mix of conservation activities car­ ried out under each project is dependent on a project’s goals, objectives and conservation Ixinefits. These projects, which have measurable outcomes, will support diverse agricultural and natural resource objectives, from helping farmers and ranchers improve water quality soil health and drought resiliency to protect ing drinking water supplies and enhancing wildlife habitat. Comeau may Ik* contacted lor additional information, cither by telephone, 269-fX)K4139, or email. david.comeau<" niacd.org. ing high water on Wall Lake. The permit is for lhe construction of two new- culverts between Wall and Shallow- lakes to help alleviate some of the high waler which is around 5 inches above its normal level. Dull said the water is high enough to begin damaging the property, but to his knowledge, has not yet impeded on any homes. He won’t have a cost estimate for the proj­ ect until the permit is approved by EGLE. Meanwhile, a 12-inch pump is still running taking water from Crooked Lake to a nearby detention basin on Delton Road. “Rain hurt us a bit. bul that’s OK." Dull said. Over the weekend, he said Crooked Lake was al 927.9 feet above sea level, or just a bit lower than when pumping began. "Cold weather didn’t really have an effect - the pumps don’t care.” Dull said. He and his team also cleared out a culvert beneath M-43 to the west of Upper Crooked lake leading into Glasby ^ie ci°gSeJ culvert contributed to the rising water which was beginning to cbsim01 M-43 Highway. The roadway is now free of water. A few cost issues have held up efforts to install another pump lo take waler Irom the lake to the detention bas‘DThe information t^l Dull originally received from United Rentuls wus lhat cost ot renting two pump'would $9,(X)0 a month. But lnter \v},en liiey were finally ready for the second Pdn,P’ n-’P^ntatives from the business vrid the cost had risen to $22,(XX). “i ‘old them thev h id wrvrun lhc numbers. ^hecamebKhSI^ Representatives from RenUl,s aPParemly hud given the cort l,f on >’ ,thc Puinl> itself and had of nmnmg a |)u„ in„ ljl)C mW"? Irom lhc hike to the deteiuien ha<in' r, „ , Because of the 1^* “J m”'’1'”’ at another rental aue,L. Mcr'"' ‘"enng. which offered the sc<vic< *<>r 4,0(10 a month. But, because ih Lies ''“"linuingtoexpkireol’*11’ 11,1 s^’niri,;antly State tenders cail! for federal action on additional SBA fotrgivabte toans Businesses urged to get paperwork ready Lt. Gov. Gatlin Gilchrist II. former Lt. Gov. Brian Calley and Michigan Association of CPAs President and CEO Bob Doyle, Tuesday called on federal officials lo reach an agreement and authorize additional funding to lhe Paycheck Protection Program funds from the U.S. Small Business Administration. More than 43,000 businesses in Michigan impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak received more than $10 billion in forgivable loans during the first round of PPP funding. Nationally, $349 billion was authorized for the initial round of PPP, all of which was committed by April 16 - less than two weeks after the application period opened demonstrating the continued need for small business relief. “While tens of thousands of Michigan businesses were able to receive more than $10 billion of relief through lhe Paycheck Protection Program, there continues to be a significant need for additional resources lo support our small businesses,” Gilchrist said. “Additional funding for the Paycheck Protection Program will be critical in helping our businesses keep their doors open and in protecting the livelihoods of their workers.” Michigan small businesses (per SBz\ size standards) - including hospitality and food industry businesses and sole proprietorships, independent contractors and self-employed persons - were eligible lo apply for loans through the Paycheck Protection Program to help ensure employees continue receiving paychecks. The PPP loans were designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses lo keep their workers on lhe payroll and may be forgiven if all employees arc kept on lhe payroll for eight weeks and lhe money is used for payroll, rent, mortgage interest or utilities. "For those businesses that applied but did not receive funding in lhe first round, please verify with your lending institution that your application is still active and in line for funding when Congress comes through,” said Calley, who now serves as president of lhe Small Business Association of Michigan. "If a business didn’t apply before, now is the lime to get your application ready. These loans can save a business and keep thousands employed.” The Mlpaycheckproteclion.com website includes key PPP eligibility information, videos and instructions to help with lhe application process, information on authorized SB/\ lenders and more. The Michigan Paycheck Protection Program website was built through a collaboration between lhe Small Business Association of Michigan, Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and the Michigan SBDC. b ”!he PPP funds on a first-come, firstserved basis, Doyle said. "Once new funds are available, businesses interested in these forgivable loans should gather their information and submit an application as soon as possible.” “We will continue to leverage every resource available at lhe federal state and local level to provide relief to businesses across our state,” MEDC CEO Mark A Burton said. •'These are difficult times, but additional PPI> funds would make a significant difference tor manv small businesses making every effort to keep their dcxirs open. 1 'l-hrough the MEDC. tnichiganbusiness. org/.oi id 19 also features other resources for businesses across Michigan to assist them in recovering from economic losses as a ,esu t ' u £°YID l9 vin,s- This includes li S Small Business Administration emergency SBDCSU^rt SCr'i“S "ffcrcd the SBD( and more. The M1*D(' u * i developed a FAQ tor Michigan bX^ eovid?“'leS * ■”i'--|’i^'-b»M„ess.org, �The Hastings Banner— Thursday. April 23, 2020 — Page 1 > Cf.“h s®el« a few ballplayers to celebrate Hall of Fame induction Brvmcr The Lakewood Vikina pm ri » Championship varsity ! SlWc is halfway between lenn?' k?ketball lcatn into the Greater Lansing °^lS induclion Fame and actually getting? Sp?T HaU °f summer's induction dinncHn lln^^ lh‘S Head coach Roily K« <‘ A team would be a part of the h’ 2020 in late December Th% r " ( SLSS °f »*#»- Lansing Center July 30. drfTd Mounl Plra'am in lhe n Michi™' r 69‘47' ,hc University f"Th ! f Cns,cr A«na in Ann Arbor. vandt> players on our X’-rm .1.” vbroUgh' UP JV’S for lhl-’ ®nt: uKrauss said- “We have contact­ ed maybe ctghl or ten of them. We have three or four that we can’t gel ahold of yet. 1 don’t know if it is going to come off in July or not. It just depends on how often they cancel things or not.” Krauss is still hoping to make a connection with Denny Geiger, Dan Bishop. Kent Blair and Brian Galaviz. Bishop was a senior and Geiger a junior on lhe state championship team, and Blair and Galaviz were the two sophomores called up from the JV for the state tournament run. “They were pretty impressed, the three guys I met with down at Buddy’s on the beach (in early March),” Krauss said. He got the chance to sit down with Mark Farrell, Stacey Bosworth and Jay Kimble, three of the seniors from the 1975 team. ”We sat around and drank beer and talked for about two hours,” Krauss said. “I was going to meet with them again, but since everything is on hold I told them we wouldn’t meet again until wc found out for sure (that the induction ceremony is happening).*’ l he luikewood team defeated Wayland and Ionia in the district tournament in Caledonia, and then bumped oil Rockford and Okemos in the regional tournament hosted by St. Johns. The Vikings followed that up with a 52-42 victory over Flint Powers in the state quarterfinals at Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant. The toughest test of lhe tournament run came in a 72-67 win over Jackson Lumen Christi in the state semifinals at Michigan State University. “Wc were down by 12 points to Jackson Lumen Christi in the semifinals with only four minutes to play,’’ Kimble told the Hastings Reminder for a story on the champi­ onship run in 2012. "Roily had called a time out and, while sitting there, I pulled out a wad of Bazooka chewing gum that I always stored in my sock."The fortune on the comic strip said ’What you think might happen, won’t.' I jumped up and screamed at everybody, "We’re not gonna lose, we’re not gonna lose!” Without the benefit of the thrcc-point shot at the time, the Vikings still managed to rally for the victory, happy to once again prove the predictions of now deceased former Detroit Free Press sports writer Hal "The Swami” Schram wrong. , "He said, ‘you have to be a loco to pick Lake O.,”‘ Krauss said of "The Swami’s prediction in lhe lead-up to the semifinal showdown with Lumen Christi. At the time of lhe 2012 Reminder story, coinciding with the opening of the MHSAA basketball tournament that year. 1975 ball­ players told newspaper editor Doug VanderLaan other classes of I.akewood ath­ letes wonder sometimes when the praise and stories about the state championship team will \\W The 1975 ^ak0^t^pjonSkfDC^°m r$ily ^oys’ basketball team, which won the 1975 Class B Michigan High School Athletic Association state ' o Of the 2020 c,ass ofthe Greater Lansing Area Sports Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony will be held^iy 30. barrtng any future adjustments to the schedule. quit coming. At the «•«*’ ,h'1,a^clba‘l P'Vers could fall back on ^ fac that they had won the school’s only team :state champion­ ship. That reasoning dldn 1 ,as* much longer as the Lake wood varsity volleyball team cap­ tured the Class B State Champtonship in the fall of 2012 and now those girls have a banner on the wall in the high school gymnasium next to the basketball one. For now, the honors keep coming. Krauss coached most of the senior mem­ bers of the state championship team on the freshmen level. He moved up to coach the varsity the following season and then was reunited with the class of 1975 beginning with its junior campaign on the varsity. We got along really well. There were no prima donnas who wanted the ball all the time. Everybody was just great and worked, together," Krauss said. Mike O’Mara, a senior center on lhe cham­ pionship team, passed away in 2018. The 1975 roster also included seniors Greg Colegrovc, Jim Estep, Tom Johnson and Al Westendorp; and juniors Phil Armstrong, Kevin Brodbeck. Scott Dow, Jim Elenbaas and Rick Tuitman. . Football teams know field of possible postseason foes The focus is turning to the 2020-21 high school sports season in Michigan. Classifications for Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) elections and postseason tournaments for the 2020-21 school year have been announced. That announcement includes a new way of sorting out the football postseason tournament. Football divisions are being determined in the ‘ preseason or the first time since 1998. Enrollment breaks for postseason tourna­ ments in all MHSAA sports are being posted to each sport’s page on the MHSAA Website. AU MHSAA sports’ tournaments are conduct­ ed with schools assigned to equal or nearly equal divisions, with lines dependent on howmany schools participate in those respective sports. Traditional classes (A, B. C, D) - formerly used to establish tournament classifications are used only for MHSAA elections. To deter­ mine traditional classifications, after all counts arc submitted, tournament-qualified member schools are ranked according to enrollment and then split as closely into quar­ ters as possible. For 2020-21, there are 188 member schools in each of those four classes. Football will undergo a significant classifi­ cation change for the 2020 season, with teams in both 11 and 8-player assigned their divi­ sions before the season; from 1999-2019, divisions for the 256-tcam II-player field (and later the 8-player tournament) were determined after the regular season. A hard enrollment limit also will take effect this fall for teams to be eligible for the 8-player tour­ nament - all schools with 215 or fewer stu­ dents are eligible for the 8-player playoffs if they play that format during the regular sea­ son. That leaves the Maple Valley Lions on the outside looking in once again in the late fall. The Lions’ varsity football team is classified as a Division 1 program in 8-player football, but with an enrollment number of 284 Maple Valley won’t eligible for the state postseason tournament. Maple Valley is one of three Division 1 8-player schools (Bridgman and Lake Michigan Catholic), out ot the field of 42 teams, with an enrollment number too large to qualify for the postseason. In the 11-player football field, Thomapple Kellogg falls into Division 3, Hastings Division 4. Lake wood Division 5 and Delton Kellogg Division 7. Thomapple Kellogg is in a division with Hastings’ lnterstate-8 Athletic Conference foes Harper Creek, Coldwater, Jackson Northwest and Jackson Parma Western, new OK Gold Conference foes Cedar Springs, Kenowa Hills, Ottawa Hills and former OK Gold member East Grand Rapids among oth­ ers from across the state. Joining the Saxons in Division 4 are area schools such as Pennficld. Marshall, Otsego, Plainwell, Paw Paw, Allegan, Forest Hills Eastern, South Christian, Charlotte, Eaton Rapids, Hamilton and Grand Rapids Christian, Holland Christian and Unity Christian. Olivet, Belding, Hopkins, Lansing Catholic, Kalamazoo United. Grand Rapids Catholic Central, West Catholic and Calvin Christian are some of the prominent nearby names in the Lakewood Vikings’ Division 5 field. Among the nearby teams that Delton Kellogg could have to contend with in a Division 7 playoff field are Schoolcraft, Jackson Lumen Christi, Pewamo-Westphalia, Union City, Galesburg-Augusta, NonhPointe Christian, Laingsburg and Springport. Two 11-player football champions will play in different divisions in 2020 than those they won a year ago. Grand Rapids Catholic Central will move to Division 5 after winning the Division 4 championship last season while reigning Division 6 champion Monroe’ St. Mary Catholic Central will play in Division 7 this upcoming season. In 8-player football the reigning champions will trade division. ’ 2019 Division 1 winner Colon moving into Division 2, and Division 2 champ Pickforrt moving into Division 1 for this fall Classifications for the upcoming school year arc based on a second semester coun date, which for MHSAA purposes was Feb. 12. The enrollment figure submitted for ath­ letic classification purposes may be different from the count submitted for school aid pur­ poses, as it does not include students ineligi­ ble for athletic competition because they reached their 19th birthday prior to September 1 of the current school year and will not include alternative education students if none are allowed athletic eligibility by the local school district. For 2020-21, there are 752 tourna­ ment-qualified member schools. Schools recently were notified of their classification, and sport-by-sport divisions were posted to the MHSAA Website (April 20) MHSAA Executive Director Mark Uyl said schools may not subsequently lower their enrollment figure. How ever, if revised enrollment figures are higher and indicate lhal a school should be playing in a higher division, lhat school would be moved up. A number of 2019-20 champions will be playing in different divisions in 2020-21. Grand Rapids Forest Hills Northern’s boys soccer team will move into Division 1 after winning the Division 2 title in 2019. The East Grand Rapids girls swimming & diving team will move back into Lower Peninsula Division 2 - which it won in 2017 - after earning the last two championships in Division 3. Bridgman’s girls cross country team will move into Lower Peninsula Division 3 after winning Division 4 last fall, and Grass Lake’s boys bowling team will move into Division 3 after winning the Division 4 title this w inter. The Allegan boys tennis team will move into Lower Peninsula Division 3 after sharing the Division 4 title in the fall, while the Ishpeming Westwood girls tennis twm will move into Upper Peninsula Division 1 after winning lhe Division 2 title the last<££J{.s*asonsEffective with the 20^-21 school year, schools with 831 or mom students are in Class A. The enrollment liuii^ °r 1ass ® arc W-' 830, Class C is 182-3?1; and schools with enrollments of 181 and fcwcr are Class D. The MHSAA is making changes to the 2020 football playoffs, setting up schools in divisions preseason for the first time since 1998. Hastings will compete in Division 4. with l-8 rivals Pennfield and Marshall among others. The break between Classes A and B decreased 32 students from 2019-20. lhe break between Classes B and C decreased three students, and the break between Classes C and D is seven students fewer than the 2019-20 school year. For what it is worth. Ionia makes the move up to Class A in lhe corning school year while Battle Creek Harper Creek is moving down from Class B to A. DNR suggests keeping spring morel hunt local A sure sign of spring is nearly here: morels, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. As sunshine and April rains wake up lhe forests, the annual search for the elusive mushrooms is a great way to enjoy the out­ doors. Morel hunters can find them from late April lo early June, and - according to Michigan State University Extension - they’re believed to grow in every Michigan county. Most Michiganders will tell a new morel hunter that the location of a good morel patch is it matter of utmost secrecy. This makes mushroom hunting a perfect chance to prac­ tice the six-fool-minimum social distancing lhal is such a critical step in slowing the spread of the coronavirus according to the DNR Mushroom hunters should plan to search locally, too, and only with peon!** wu live in their household. P^ple who lb find morels, the DNR suggests target hilly areas with plenty of harduSS trees like maple, beech and otdc, ch£k?„ bum scars where a wildfire or prcscrihZJu10r has occurred. Pick a warm day afte?a r start your hunt, when mushrooms J ° l° likely to have bloomed. When heading. T* 8r«s, lhey are hard woods, take a mesh bag for carry prizes, a knife (always cut, never pull m?°1Ur and a map of your hunting area. s) Morel hunters can leant how to firui n tell a false one from a real one, prepare and boost odds of a success hunt with * n' showing sites of lust year’s wildfires an'dniUp scribed burns online al Michiom Prt* MiMorels. 'the ?Ushrooms off “f S'fUnEUs “nd ensure he lower portion {l)turc years. Puiii,,., mushroom rcgrowthJ^t damagc* This is out can do m handy- and ^erc a sharp >w whiU ‘ iniportant of 1 pu>w (he difference You will neeJ ‘ ^the ’false hetwecn a "true” *hich are po’isuvh as beefsteak -’xinous. «r<= Sorinatime in Michigan is a great time for mushrooms, especially the prized morels. Ifsan activity that can be done with proper social distancing (at least 6 feet between yourseft and mwlher person), which is required under the current "Stay Home. Stay &tf? Executive Ordoraimed at slowing lhe spread of COVID-19. �Pape 12 - Thursday. April 23. 2020 - The Hasting Sanner WJf Hastings Area Schools ph 269-948-4400 • 232 W. Grand St. • webwww.hassk12.org “Hastings Area Schools, Small in Stature, Big in Opportunity” An Open Letter to the Hastings Community Hello Friends, Family, and Acquaintances of The Hastings Area School System! Like many of you, we are eagerly awaiting the days when words and phrases like, “Social Distancing,” “Pandemic,” and “Quarantine” crawl back under the rocks from which they came from some six weeks ago. We are excited to hear kids hollering and playing in our playgrounds, parks, and other social areas; in short, we are more than ready to be back to “normal.” While opinions certainly vary as to when that day will come, it is important for all of us to realize -and to share with our kids- that it will be here one day, sooner than later. This is a temporary delay in our lives. It is a time to help each other and extend grace to our friends, family, and neighbors who are stressed and anxious about changes in their day to day lives, livelihoods, and lifestyles. It is also a great time for some personal growth and reflection, and oddly enough, thanks. There are so many people and services to be thankful for during this crisis...the teachers who are learning on the fly to teach remotely, support staff who have helped contact families, food service employees who have braved challenging circumstances to continue to feed the community, and school administrators who have designed off-site plans to address the education of ALL of our students. We are grateful for all of their work. We are also very, very grateful for our incredibly generous, supportive, and understanding community. Parents and students have been incredibly patient and understanding during this ever-changing time of many variables and unknowns. We have had parents, businesses, and community members volunteer to help deliver food to families, pass out school supplies, and check in on members of our community who may be in ill-health or who are simply lonely. Challenges can break or strengthen a community. I am proud and grateful to be a part of a community in which the best has been brought out in all of us. Let’s continue to model a positive, supportive community for our children. If we all do our part, we can come out of this stronger than ever. We hope this communication finds you well and that it provides you with SOME clarity moving forward. What can I do to help my child during this crisis? Establish as much of a routine as possible for schoolwork, meals, relaxation and playtime. Encourage your child to read, write, and get some exercise daily. Check in on your child’s mental health. Simply ask how they are doing, how they are feeling, or if they would like to talk to somebody (resources are at the end of this communication) Keep lines of communication open and have honest discussion about the effects of this challenge. Admitting to your child that you might be struggling with this, too, is helpful and may help “normalize” their own feelings. Encourage “virtual social times” (yes, coming from the guy who banned cell phonesl); socializing online is better than not socializing at all (this should be monitored, obviously, depending on age/maturity). ' •. r. • o . Take care of yourself. You cannot take care of a child if you are not “okay” yourself. If you are struggling, reach out to a friend, family member, member of the clergy, or a professional. As the saying goes, “it is okay to not be okay.” This is always true, but it is especially true right now. What about Kindergarten Registration and school enrollment/registration? If you still need to register your child for Kindergarten (or Young K), please simply email Kelly Tobias at kelly.tobias@hassk12.org or Matt Goebel at matt.goebel@hassk12.org and provide your address. We will mail you all of the appropriate documents and get the process rolling. You may also call 269-945-6130 to enroll or register any child. Kindergarten screening will take place in August (assuming we are back to relative normalcy), including hearing and vision screening. This pandemic should most definitely NOT take away from the excitement of any student starting school. What about our Seniors and graduation? Our seniors and their families have been “robbed" by this pandemic. They have missed out on musical performances, athletics, recognition ceremonies, and countless other traditions many of us remember when we were finishing up our K-12 schooling. We WILL hold a graduation ceremony for The Class of 2020. We are not ready to publish a date yet, but when we have more clarity about the safety and feasibility of holding a public graduation ceremony, that date will be communicated. Contingency plans for awards ceremonies, both athletic and academic, will be made, again, when we have a better grasp of the length of the “Stay at Home” orders. We will not let The Class of 2020 become the “forgotten" class of Hastings High School. Seniors, there is a “surprise” coming for you on May 1st. Stay tuned. What resources are available if I need help or have questions or problems? If you have questions about your child’s academic progress, academic resources or how to get schoolwork/supplies, please contact your child’s teacher directly either via email or phone. If you have trouble, please contact your child’s building principal. Central Elementary Northeastern Elementary Southeastern Elementary Star School Hastings Middle School Hastings High School Hasting Virtual Academy 269.948.4423 269.948.4421 269.948.4419 269.948.4442 269.948.4404 269.948.4409 269.945.6167 Mental Health/Other Supports: Barry County Community Mental Health Cherry Health Barry County Health Center Pine Rest MDDHHS Mental Health Warmline For help with food, rent, utilities, please Barry County United Way Sarah Geukes Eric Heide Dana Stein Amy Smelker Beth Stevens Teresa Heide Steve Hoke (269) 948.8041 (269) 945.4220 (800) 678.5500 (888) 733.7753 call 2-1-1 or (269) 945.4010 You can also email for help to saxonhelp@hassk12.org Thank you and stay safe! It is a GREAT day to be a Saxon! Dan Remenap Superintendent Hastings Area School System sarah.geukes@hassk12.org eric.heide@hassk12.org dana.stein@hassk12.org amy.smelker@hassk12.org beth.stevens@hassk12.org teresa.heide@hassk12.org steve.hoke@hassk12.org � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-04-30.pdf 339b527895fc11214f0dc377bc252829 PDF Text Text ~~ :s changing VirU uves forever our on Page 4 Candidates ffl® for local offices Devoted to the Interests of Barr\) ANNER £>* * VecDf .cyA 9 A7 0° 42'Nv^a90^-'v6r^°Hast^5 * 30, 2020 puts tax retlueston N°vembe5 Wing, who ^^^miikchik.”- VOLUME 167, No. Io Historic vote --------------- Y^ost significant Rebecca Pierce | -The , largest, ^^cades was Editor , I county issue ^oom meeting, In the Nov. 3 g^^^ilUontox request I decided eve Commissioner voters will consider» , (jcparimcnt. I Ben Geig6'' ioncreunanimously approved Chamber co-hosting webinar tomorrow •^^^BenGeigersaid^esday C« durinT'h" COVID-19 ^’‘vdlbt'suitcd 10tolla m.Fnday.May !.«'» pcc’udly for local busmes «’• ond CSI •nte webinm’ ,ok«p cmployeducale employers participants i and the commu . _ ‘ employee -11^:11^ •i tests P^’nve’ 'V , rXsh- Uhv and how to to help keep employ^ H minimize contact wi P discuss curI Health departi^nts^^^ | rent and future safe. > bac“w !L~~~ County Since 1856 See Story on Pa8e 1U Tbe Barry Commerce Health Boaters get mot®’S . on the water nc,senlial bust­ the jail structure doesn't know that.. ■■■ the roof alone, it's going to be very costly- - i’wafroughly'tolf of the one two weeks ago- The necessity is there." .., do Commissioner Jon Sm.e’'‘\r.Mbut 1 think believe we need to move forward, we should make a motion to pult «* 1 get the economic hard "n'^s’ h would ' fcBui a building prrjjecthke ttoj^ help t° stimulate the .inourconununoted-'^Vbi'brings investment >n^ # nity-1 d° "ol S.’ffi’as an investment to November ballot, not the August ballot. Commissioner Howard Gibson agro • “1 think November is abetter option o b< us ome game-plan time to set togeto cd Tuesday by the board articulate this message.' Jackson smd 8 Nation report apP«"'v(Jucs and. as a result, that commissioners need to lx. cam back to the drawing board, u will affect taxable\ Sothe wordtng of the • s, forward, but mindful of the need. act." , "1 a-ree wholeheartedly. ■ • • asked Parker if he had any comments calculations of ta-' f^ l0 be changed to ballot proposal ion numbers, reflect new equal' change the date of a An initial amenJ^wed by a "friendly after the session. decision picked up the • -rhe commissioners decs, 4 action where they had H lxwrj s postponement of th P the election wa5 d by Chairwoman fust Zoom meeting. of lhc eommis- amendment" P’^iaiige the wording to During that session.. economic Heather Wing qualization figures, account for the ■»*.goners offered there sioners strife due to COMU l Un Conner. Initially. t0 . expressed support for Tuesday, ^'“‘commissioner Dave views. While eacn depanmCnt, commisDan parkcr with support motion to adopt the a new jail and sher Jackson, made the )|ol pn,posal seek­ loners Dave Ja^ about the local econexpressedsomeconce resolution to 4 primary election, ing tax bonds m the Augvolc on ' SBut. before comm ssionus omy. . riixt The initial vote by comConner spoke 1 ■ • Wl(h a potential that resolution. * |(j conect lls wordtnissioners to in January 2017, to figure out thL bet\vUh confusion over jail replaccmcn $c are tryjng times, but ing in a session connectivity. she pointed outf3CDa”'hadUto be «d. And a new equal- ““X I* comments.! at •*» reconnect. view’ “I would Wing proceeded to offe her vrcw . t “f‘"All of us." Wing replied. ..lt-s really, reaUy love .mJ8' “Aw, shoot.This is . mc speak.” just don’t think we re g g we almost like they don twa f)n(iings from to do the education..the prom^ Parker wenl .'.^nvhelmingly" wanted normally "°“ld h ’.’ lhc public at the fair. , ^UXw^a?ie".unt.< November to See BALLOT, page 2 anything 1 want to try <o do. * vt ’ Lake <lu,:sti?n^.tro7oP2;Cq‘resdons during i* Those wishing t webinar viacomPp^r^Urby^anartph only. ..Just based on “nv^J^^ n^x->^-5iMr-com;rcgiv ^042519858552019252, Rebecca Pierce ! Legal advice for Iseniors offered About 35 acres_al^MJ^Valion (via telephone > < rx-ices Of South Central «. The Legal T ,wiH conduct iMichigan-BimlcCrcvkJ^ ^.y,. i interviews for "8 charae. over the I representation. who rcslde | telephone to interesteu j in Barry County. wilh an I 1'hosC *1 ^-22^W«> Wednesday, fncy may and noon. May 6. between‘O -S'i ■ Sou)h CeMral J Legal Services ’ isnonprof' Michigan-Battle Ouhlgh^uality «-> ,0’d C°mnUS‘ Commissioner Ben^Geig^ p* Tuesday that lhch f0rThornapple ecl re presents a nc ir sioners Tuesday. con5uming about "The current .rwtprin 5Q 100 independent ’"'*"8 )2 R) 15 acres of living units would us to Qn that 35; leaving about.41 c parcel." Haney said dunng m ironic meeting. Thornapple Manor s The proximny to,dtuTho-mjT (<j V' o?3n’^'°ce representation and educas legal assistance, i P Calhoun and Vion‘VOWXi" -niors in Barry. I BXh. Calhoun and St. Joseph counties. S”,4 curren1 l^KMwn Road make it very attr.icM-79 off McKeown iwlive, he noted board’s continued supHaney asked for the toa^ fowatd port as the pr°J ’ nded with a unamC°7vXbs"up for his methodical approach for“a development that wou!d be adjacent to Manor?" ...inothas a strong brand." "Thornapple Manor { a Haney replied. ^to attract people to marketing issue a jn o|)(. bullding. an independent uni , haven’t landDO we call it a new name - « ed on an answer. js whal is the The concern at tin £ ^omapple need in Barry Co“"'’upporting that need, he Manor have a rok tn sW(_ don.( ovct. added. "I want to mas -n Darr) build, but that we're meeting ,he1'rhOSuPst' X caTbefore commis- Rep. Calley on COVID-1® oversight County.” .. make Thomapple The project w®u‘|d be a "Continuing LaSl A °. f sunport as he explored these sioners to ask for housing as well as additions to semo. a commis- 1 l’e Calley has been named Sta’..'rtep. Julie C “ J co,nmittee to * "XreX^’sactionsduring review and assess “ the coronavirus outbreakCalley. ^Portl^. ^the COVID-19 joint select mcommittee will pundem^The biP-irt^fro[n lh include five lc|l Us existence will and the Sun • Michigan and House better protect the state govemmainlain key ^oun.involvement - checks and bal^.^^^, ment of the Lx’gislalure Taylor Owens Staff Writer A oi year-old Sunfield Township man. Robert Justin Shepard, was arraigned Wednesday for first-degree premeditated mureler in die death of his mother. 56-year-old Ines of residents lii* SB® her Sunfield Township home F-uon County Sheriff's Deputies were disnarehed to Fox’s residence in the 10000 block of North Clinton Trail at approximately 12:33 An aerial view of the 35-acre. 0"d the"corner of M-79. adjacent to* ™ erred for new independent and as See HOUSING, page 6 Sunfield man charged wit murdering his mother ChFox' wasfound dead on Sunday. April 26. in pan of lh^n^n'ds to this ever-evolvhow our . . • •• c-itlev said. mg situation, Cai) bhome . order v,scd Gretchen Whrtmer The re announced by ^>oV ■ to purchase item’' Friday allows residents through curb­ from additional Qinci thing legisside pick-up anJ?e lV\7for to improve the htnXhadljetn fighting for io i t -T' Manor campus ' '. he facility un^^9°th^ and &(e 3. a 22 acre p Site 2 which currently houses Pennock parte Greg Chandler Staff^riicr d (b temporary quaran'mrial^lifted t^OVI^ treatment th Village Apartments in I 8 Wednesday after l«o ** P,h officer Mayo Clinic. Barry-Eaton District oaranW)e Colette Scrimger housing com-At Pennock, we’ve had 30 Aoril lb al the 38-unit s several plexat 611 E. Woodlawn^cOVlD-19 tests to date, with six posit cases We're very blessed residents tested positive I noUo have seen the kind virus.. . .J Mallard Pond were ynumbersthaltheeasts. The 41 residents of * during the PIA relafive said they had not heard from Fox and went to the residence to cheek on her, . the relative saw Fox lying motionless 7<i the floor and called police. Deputies forced their way into the house , 4-s.rna Fox deceased. She had suffered traumatic head injuries, and an edged weapon W TheUSheriff’^ ^ff*^ and Mich,Ean Slalc . luStin Shepard r ^rimc lab were investigating the scene RobedJ ^'Tihev obtained information on Shepard, when F who live Qf Shepard and his vehicle custody. oui to Cheryl’s family and A de;J !Lj in a statewide bulletin, and a “Our hearts Spring this senseless, horwere releas . friendb who a** eof prayers arc with you. search was s officers of the Grand rific loss, and 0 ljuer that mcnt located the vehicle. See C^0' Page 10 Udgc Police took Shepard into initiated a Irtiiuc • r asked not to leave two weeks in the first . rg in Barry and Eaton counties o quarantine l0 coro- navirus. . cases were iden••No additional posiU* hcaUb jeparltifted during the quaran> t ment spokeswoman Sa'J 59.year-old Those cases includ . aied April U; a Barry’ County woman Uasungs Pohce jay after she was tound by lakcn U) during a well-bcwgc^ Hospital m of the slate and even Grand Rapids has seen. Angela Spectrum Pennock p 4. .he nlasm •They prov.de rh P' COVID-postUve patient^ d Spectrum Health rv Hastings. .. had six patients „ Thus far, the Angela Ditmar, test positive for CO D 1Ual,h pcnnock. president at Spectrum said. .-a did not want to The patient who di a tvspirarvsuscitated. intubated or Pu______ to April 21 tod . .uen. wto H 10.^ See QUARANTIN �2 — Thursday. Apni 0V, 30. 2020 — Fbo Hafitmqr. Banner 'Page Ciyv ft IfUKSOay, Apnt H Public hearing request delays Watson Drain 11,., I LukeHwtchcck Stulj Writer On April 22, a public notice peri<xi ended for a Watson Drain project permit that had been submitted to die state Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. And, because one or more individuals requested a public hearing on the project. EGLE is, by law-, required to hold a meeting For the public to attend and share their opinions on matter And the matter pertains specifically to proposed changes to Closerdale and U>ng Lakes. When EGLE officials say there will be a public hearing. Barry County Drain Commissioner Jim Dull can’t just say no. So that’s when some brainstorming began. While not having much information to proside. EGI E Water Resource Division District Supervisor Audrie Kirk said the public hearing will be web-based. But other than the public hearing taking a new, digital format. Kirk didn’t have any other information to provide. So. for now, Dull and his team are essentially just treading water. "There is nothing we can do until this permit is through,” he said. The pennit that’s being disputed - if approved - would allow Dull and his team to construct the necessary infrastructure to bring water north from Upper Crooked Lake through the Cloverdale and Long Lakes and into Fall Creek. The plan is meant to be a temporary piece of a long-term solution to help ease the flooding that has plagued several Delton area lakes for more than three years. While flooding has affected more than just Long and Cloverdale Lakes, those are the only two water bodies that need infrastructure changes for the project to proceed. Dull said his engineers surveyed and designed a system that would operate so pumping efforts would have no negative impact north of the M-43 crossing near Long Lake. The proposed water movement would mimic rain events, he said. On Long Lake, the plan within the permit outlines how Dull and his team plan to remove the bridge on North Shore drive and the two 18-inch culverts with a 6-foot cost ot the project. fem wint‘-r 0 t W(M1|j replace uk t .... ...... ^e.-s 'ieni wu box culvert. They also would install a water will tw the earliest the » y |)c extended h|s letter, control structure to ensure the kike level teach tax bills - and « would remain consistent with seasonal and beyond that date, Jtickson|lorlll cnd ‘"Ihese improvements 1 । (jdnie we are historical averages. ,h<! Iab f()r To protect Long Lake from receiving too outlet/dmm were needed. »' much water via Crooked Lake, this summer fortunate that MDOT is P^''8 1 said in the lcvc) Dull plans to petition the court to establish a Hie bulk of this project, •>* , ,;11 8lnlcture are Iceal lake level on Long Lake so they can letter. • I he establishment and a permanent water h\l . • k track the amount of water entering the lake. “'Ihc.se infrastructure improvements were enhancements that will P^es lor years to on(_ of |h(_ needed and the establishment of a legal lake water levels and property level is a protection for our lake and all lx>ng come and contmue our po«"^ Soulh„est Like projKrty owners going forward,” Long premier all-sports lakes 1 . , ns are paused. Dull Lake Cloverdale Association President David Mi±r " , While construction P pumping Jackson said in a letter to the members of that and his team have contm ut ° *. association. . efforts to keep up with continuing ramfall tn While the culverts are under construction, ,d there will be a temporary crossing in place so Barry County. the residents of North Shore Drive can still gel to their properties. The Cloverdale Lake Drain - which moves water from Cloverdale Lake and into Long rd is un 8 under Guernsey Lake Road -also will be "Even with all the min "''vc Hie detention pond on Del on r«M up 8 upsized toa36 inch culvert. inches since April 8 when 1,1,1 ,urncd lhlDue to concerns about invasive species in on at full strength. „ _ .. ., water moving freely from Crooked Lake. pump "It’s tapped out at«inches. Dull said. Cloverdale Lake, and into Long Lake and Dull said that the detention pond has beyond, the permit requires the installation of reached its equilibrium where the pressure is screens at the three locations where water enough to push the water down and into the passes from lake to lake. If. and when, the permit is approved, gravel vein he assumes is below the property. Even while not being »ble to lower construction on the project would begin Cloverdale Lake yet, Dul1 sald,hfc ,and h,s within 60 days. But water cannot be moved until the construction is complete, per EGLE team have been able to hold the lake s water level in place through continued pumping. guidelines. The only pumping issue that Dull has faced Because the construction effort will help ensure that water won’t impede the traffic in the last few weeks was when an unknown flow on M-43, cast of Cloverdale Luike - individual decided to ‘ borrow” some fuel out which was shut down for six weeks during the of the pump that was set up on Guernsey Lake summer of 2019 - the Michigan Department Road near Cloverdale and Long Lake. "I don’t like running my pumps on empty." of Transportation will cover a large portion of Dull said. the construction cost. So, when the drain commissioner kicked The different construction portions of the project can’t be bid out until the permit is the pump on and it- started making noises it approved. So. a total estimated project cost shouldn’t have, he knew something was out of can’t be established until the permit is order. "It didn’t bum the pump output it definitely approved and bids can go out. Michigan Drain Law says that any person wasn’t good for it,” he said. receiving a benefit from the improvements to the drain w ill lx* assessed to help pay for the ronltci- BALLOT, continued from page 1 bring the jail question to a vote. **I understand there’s a problem with the roof of the jail, but nothing that shows it’s going to collapse," Parker remarked. "When this virus came up, it stopped us in our tracks. We need to get the momentum going a bit more ...” MAw, shoot. This is crazy. It’s almost like they don’t want to hear me speak." Dan Parker, commissioner "I want to give us every chance we can." he added, pointing out that commissioners .scaled down the size of the facility in the final plan. “We’re not building a 130-bed jail; we’re building a 108-bed jail.” Smelker expressed surprise al that detail. “Was Dan correct on 108 [beds]? I don’t remember that.” Wing said the plan allowed for a capacity that could expand as part of a second phase. After that, die motions and how to proceed became more confused. Smelker moved, with support from Parker, to amend the action on the floor so that the request would be placed on the November ballot instead. Geiger suggested a 15-minute break so that Brown could change the wording to reflect that motion, when Conner pointed out that there already was a motion on the floor. Mark Nettleton, an attorney participating in the Zoom electronic meeting to advise the board on this matter, confirmed that the motion on the floor had been made by Conner, with support from Jackson, to adopt the reso­ lution. “Who’s talking?" Conner asked. “That would be Mr. Nettleton.” Wing replied, noting that the motion by Smelker would amend the motion by Conner. Geiger repeated his request for a recess to amend the wording of the proposal, but Nettleton kept talking, pointing out that the projections in the resolution are based on 2019 taxable values and the board had just approved an equalization report that will change those values, effective in May. Those dollar amounts need to be changed, but that action "doesn’t have to be taken today with reference to getting it on the November ballot," Nettleton said. "My concern is 20 years of inaction ” Geiger replied. "We can pass a resolution today and adjust the dollar amount before the deadline [to gel the proposal on the November ballot].” Nettleton said he could make the necessary' revisions and have the corrected wording for the board in 14 minutes. "1 can barely hear Mr. Nettleton," Conner said. "A lawyer said he's going to do something in less than 15 minutes!” Geiger replied. iben Wing summarized- 'I he proposal had originally staled the request w ould appear on tile August ballot. The amendment by Smelker, supported by Parker, changed that date to Nov. 3. Geiger still sought a recess: "After we vote on this, my understanding is we’re going to go to recess so Mark can prepare this.” “I do not see building this jail as a huge economic burden; I see it as an investment to help us through this downturn." Heather Wing, commissioner Nettleton agreed that he could revise the language and send it to Brown to be distribut­ ed to the commissioners at an upcoming meeting. Thai’s when Brown suggested the board also amend other dates in the wording that, given all the changes being made, would now be incorrect. Then Geiger asked for the date of the day before the ballot proposal deadline for the election in November and Nettleton began talking about the taxable values stated in the proposal. "I guess I’m lost,” Wing said. "We have an amendment on the floor to send it to the ballot on Nov. 3.” Finally, she suggested that the board set a special agenda item on its first meeting in June to decide on the specific ballot language. "That would give us time to look at the values to get the right language.” Her suggestion elicited a chorus of approv­ al: “I like that." "I like that, too.” "Sounds good to me.” So Wing proposed a “friendly amend­ ment," supported by Smelker, that the word­ ing of the ballot proposal be decided June 9. “How many motions do we have on the floor?” Conner asked. "On June 9. the board of commissioners will consider an updated form of the language on Exhibit A," Nettleton said, referring to the board packet. "So the resolution as you’ve proposed it would be amended ... al your June 9 meeting.” “On the amendment, is there any more dis­ cussion?” Wing asked. "I take it that your amendment was a friendly amendment to the amendment?" Geiger asked Wing. "So we’re voting on three things?" Conner asked. When Wing confirmed the multi-layered action, Conner criticized it as confusing. Geiger said the’jctions being proposed involved four charuflL "I understand IMI/ Conner replied. "That just changes the resolution? OK?” "Right," Geiger said. "Then the first one is to put it on the bal­ lot?” Conner said. "When we get it amended, we’ll get there," Wing said. Then the voice of Dan Parker cut in: "Anybody Ittar me yet?" “Yes, Dao.” Wing replied “Can you hear me now? Can you hear me now?” he repeated. "Oh, good. I’ve been gone again.” . Geiger said. "You’re joking, right?” Wing sought to bring Parker up to speed with the details of the discussion up to that point. “I have a question, if that's all right,” Parker responded. "Why not wait until a little bit later when w e have a belter idea?” Wing said a board decision on the proposal language in June, using the new taxable val­ ues, would likely be beneficial to taxpayers by resulting in a lower rate if the request is approved. When a vote was finally taken on the amendment, Conner - who had criticized the confusion - was the lone dissenter. She did. however, vole in unanimity with her fellow commissioners on the action to put the question on the ballol. "Wow.” Wing said after the first amend­ ment was approved. "Not sure how 1 feel.” “Madam Chair,” Geiger said. "I would move to adopt resolution 20-11, a resolution to approve the ballot proposal for county bonds to fund a new county jail and sheriff’s department facility as amended." Smelker supported the motion. All voted in favor. Proposal destined for tweaks June 9 The proposal that Barry County commissioners approved Tuesdav is defined for multiple tweaks on June 9. ’’ Dates and details pertaining to taxable value will have to be f lized throughout the document. A fundamental plan, with a three-part approach remaim • The county has identified through the County’s Facilities Master Plan il is ncccssiuy to replace the existing facility and construct a new county iail and .n -^kiurtment facility,” the resolution reads, “to provide enhanced security"£ X additional needed capacity; improved and upated HVAC and m i space for inmate processing; accommodations for offices . X- ^£”>Slen’S: ““ deSign- e"gin“rin8- financing 1 .vstems. improved for information lMgUa8C' “mmissi0"ere - Piling three pas* *1,en,a,iVeS • One idea, which has been recommended as m.... .■ -. . fared facilitator TowerPinkster. would be to demolish the existinitf1ciliIT ?iiC|^lb,e b> St and construct the new building on that county-owned proXy w^emffi '2 2 W department is located. 1 i y when: toe jail and sh^n 5 1 • A second possibility would be to acquire new .-.c commissioners have declined to specifically identify possible new Y ”7 Dew ’ Vth<ir di*cussion would drive up the cost of the property. 1 cs ou oI c°ncepi to*’1 • A third alternative would be to acquire new nr, building and renovating it for use by the sheriff depamnent for oKan 1*'* a jai' property as part of the project, ,IUb arH‘ constructing 3 Barry County Drain Commissioner Jim Dull checks the pump removing water from Crooked Lake to the detention pond on the former Darrell Jones property. (Photo by Luke Froncheck) Michigan doctor, near (dtesifth wii® coronavirus, among first to gsfi [©ilasma ...... ucauiiy paucins ai neiiry rora Health Sv^tPm Dr with the novel coronavirus and nearly died He nm’n ^5°,Kaatz was infected imentally with donated plasma from recovered COV^D 19 patients ‘reatGd exper- Bridge Magazine Donated plasma from the blood of recov­ ered COVID-19 patients is showing early promise for treating those most sickened by the virus, Henry Ford Health System doctors said Tuesday. I hat includes Dr. Scott Kaatz, who worked on the front lines at Detroit’s Henry- Ford Hospital as COVID-19 bore down on the city then nearly died after being infected himself.’ Kaatz. 62. a board-certified hospitalist, said luesday he was “unconscious, paralyzed, on a ventilator and face-down” at the hospital where he has worked for more than three whh h? f ? already had a Skypc P',one «>« las? h fa"" y lhey thou8hl might be their .Kjla|1|Z ‘S .aniong 14 patients treated experi­ mentally wnh convalescent plasma at lkn?v ^recent weeks, the he^.h system S Wc \e not |uilj anykey wilh comnli.. ’m daCI; maJf'y if 1,01 mo4t of ,hem Steven K n dC sl8n,flau« recoveries." Dr mX| cL '”S> 5E° °f ,hc Hora io" hT?'0 haVu rcco'ered from a COVID£p^XX,hen have an — tion. Anecdotally at least it seem< l!l,.ec' •hough ifs too Jarly to k’now re P~n,,s,n8actually works . lh ’^“‘ment even help those with und-^ 'Ope ” "light ditions Jr who are m “? u?'?.1"8 me‘lical convirus. SUC17LTaIto cS^gw‘ylteXpOSed *° option. Right now. there “ '^“ment mental options but lu, f d “n6™ experi­ drugs to treat COVID-19 dtral,>-aPProved given other experinienvn're ,’atientS a” ll’c drug "including quine and Remdesivir wh; bydr"x>chlororcsults treating COVIl'y to'-' E?Ve ba^ mixed ’ drug that may hcrip n‘?“rdl",':r,cu,‘in6. the worst damage by th,’? lhe lungs from ........... e Plasma is being donated by people See ™E*™ENT, page 10 �The Hasbnq > Banner - Thu- -.day. ApM 30. 2020 - Pa^e 3 Pandemic highlights need for broadband service G?^.Ch»nd|,.r Itaro Countjn,,,,,,,, ; have „„„ Of .support for sever! aI'prtnElenes dwib through the npan,Cs Peking expand broadband sen °! Mid^n u> And with the onj;oin., " ^unty. ic. it could be a ID-19 pandeni find out if they receive th 1 U'sc w,«panic» Companies such K n 8ran’sInc. and ACD.net out LS,Ungs'bascd MH applied lor grams \hrnil ? J ’anW* have Michigan CommuniiiL ngh ,he C°nnccting of the state Demr/ h>pram,an*n’tiative Management and BiX? r/ rcc'no,nP>gram is offering $20 mit'r1’ n’c CMIC pnv net service provider ,.°n ,n l’rmil»to inter access in rural areas of th Wa,lt ,o expand upto M m.llionpere^;P"’vi<l^can be announcedh,wcn; «hedulcd to ment has -ha. announcethe depanmenttas shi^b> n™B sincc immediate govern™™ | d attention to ccms stemnur r nicr*tal operational con™Ve! " I ' ,g frm ,hc COVID-W Vitus. lannoun'enir sla^Ctl right now, but that this Pets K.h1I |Sh.Ol!!dhaFFenjUst ;is soon as •.bdU?d us«” sa’<l Dan Manning a Broadband Service Inventory by Platform* A ? i Mtv’ re .'•’in Symbc/ogy Nation \4i *1 * adviser for Connected to exoin 1*1 U^aiu a” orfan’ZiU‘°n that works d brc;ulb™d services in underserved The lack of broadband service in Barry oun y is a source of frustration lor many. urnC Sp?ngs Township resident Ken i ham son raised his concerns with county commissioners. Williamson said, when he bought his home 10 years ago, the perception was that high­ speed internet was a luxury. But times have changed, and the lack of that service is hav­ ing an impact on his family' now. The internet is not a luxury anymore; it's a true necessity - especially in these times when we re mandated to stay at home," Williamson said. “We don't havc access to this utility. My family is separated from the community we depend on ... Now my chil­ dren can’t rely on this method of communica­ tion for the purpose of their education or to keep up with their classmates.’’ Williamson pointed out that Thomapple Kellogg school officials realized recently that they would need to physically mail packets of school work and assignments to the house­ holds in their school district. “We may be in this situation for the major­ ity of the year,” he said. “Who know s’.1" Williamson said their best access is to rely on a Verizon cellphone-ba^ed internet; they have a dedicated jetpack for web access that broadcasts through their house. He also uses his work cellphone from 8 a.m. to 5 pan. “The speeds are very, very slow and not dependable.” he said. Because of the home’s elevation, the Williamsons arc unable to access the tow­ er-based providers; MEI. which has towers at the Barry County fairgrounds and near Gun Lake; and Freedom Nel in .Middleville with a tower near the Thomapple Kellogg school district bus garage. They would need to erect a lower at a cost of $2,000 to $3XXX) to be able to gel access to one of those towers, he said. The Williamsons' scenario is a familiar one to many Barry County families. /X July 2018 study by Connected Nation Michigan found that 725 percent of households in the county V iXoxJjy jwi A July 2018 study by Connected Nation Michigan found that 72.5 percent of households in the county had access to a broadband service with at least a minimum speed of 10 megabytes per second, which is sufficient for most basic internet functions with a minimal number of devices. However, only 48.5 percent of households in the county had access to services with at least 25 Mbps, which is considered the current standard for effective broadband by the Federal Communications Commission. “The lack of broadband impacts the county in many ways, including difficulty recruiting employees, attracting business development and encouraging development of necessary housing within the county. In today’s connected world, quality broadband service is no longer a luxury. It is essential." Heather Wing, county board chair had access to a broadband service with at least a mini mum* speed of 10 megaby tes per sccJ ond. >\hich is Mjlficicnt tor most basic interne^ functions with a minimal number of devices. However, only 485 percent of households in the county had access to services with at least 25 Mbps, which is considered the current standard for effective broadband by the Federal Communications Commission. Manning said. “[The 25 Mbps speed] supports more devices and more advanced usage - [such as| video/movine streaming from multiple devic­ es, online gaming, etc..’’ Manning said. "Having access to a broadband service means that the service - cable, fiber. DSL or fixed wireless - is available to that household, should they want to subscribe to it; it does not mean that they actually Subscribe.” County commissioners in August 2019 approved letters of support for three internet service providers - MEI, ACD.net and Michwave - who were seeking grants through the Connecting Michigan Communities initia­ tive. "The lack of broadband impacts the county in many ways, including difficulty recruiting employees, attracting business development and encouraging development of necessary­ housing within the county," county board Chairwoman Heather Wing, R-Bellevue, wrote in a letter to the stale in support of the QUARANTINE, continued from page 1 administered, with about 1200 testing posi­ tive. ' “At Pennock, we've had 308 tests to dale, with six positive cases. We’re very blessed not to have seen the kind of numbers that the east side of the state and even Grand Rapids has seen.’’ she said. Since last week, Pennock has been in what they call “COVID-19 Level Blue.” “which basically means our patient volumes are below normal levels, below the curve, that we would expect.” “Right now, we’re doing very' well,” she said. “The surge we had anticipated we no longer .anticipate. The hard thing about it is that, as wc flatten the curve, it extends - so it goes on longer. [But] wc have fewer people getting sick all at once.’ The hospital is cautiously restarting elec­ tive surgeries and radiology surgeries, she said. “People who are having heart attacks and strokes are not wanting to come to the hospi­ tal,’’ Ditmar noted, adding that it’s safe lo go to the hospital. “We clean everything. Triage tents that had been erected for an anticipated surge have been taken down because they aren't needed and the hospttal has expanded its COVID-19 testtng abthltes 'There is a lot more access. Ditmar-said “In the beginning, we had a really dtflicul time because we didn't have the number of test kits wc needed.” . There has been a lol of confuston over • « i f.xtinc what. screening and U '''bp ’fhc b screening shl)1||d islcstcd helps determine it a pauem 3. —————————— "Right now, we're doing very wel. The surge we had anticipated we no longer anticipate. The hard thing about it is that, as we flatten the curve, it extends - so it goes on longer. [But] we have fewer people getting sick all at once.’ Angela Ditmar, Spectrum Health Pennock president Drive-through testing is available at Pennock for patients who meel the criteria. A call to their hotline or a primary care physician is a gcxxl place to start, she said. Once approval is given for a test, the patient can drive right up to the emergency department and the staff conies out. They complete the swab and the patient drives away. The results are provided at myhealth spcctnimhealth.org or via phone. A rapid test will provide results within 24 hours, she said The financial impact is severe, Ditmar said Spectrum took a $27 million hit. with another $70 million loss expected in the next couole of months. ' “We spent more on personal protective equipment in a month than we usuallv year,” she said. ' "'a Through it all, “the community has be • absolutely amazing,” Ditmar said, notinr* ill the donations of supplies from local comn nies and organizations. *)a' The health department’s Surna. disthe quarantine, offered a similar’ sh,..^1”8 • ^nimicnt; "We are incredibly g™teful and appreciate that the residents were so cooperative through­ out the process, and incredibly grateful for the efforts of the [Commission on Aging] and United Way, that people had their needs met.” . Barry County Vailed Way and the Commission on Agiag were among many local agencies to assist Mallard Pond resi­ dents with food, prescriptions and personal care needs during tl# Qu^anl»ne. Other agen­ cies included Barry County Emergency Management. CareWell Services of Southwest Michigan and the Sooth Michigan Food Bank. As of Wednesday*lhc hcalth department reported 34 positive cases of COVID-19 in Barry County. 17 ^°,Vc^d‘ lhe death April 12 and 31 Padenb monitored or under quarantine. r Meanwhile, in 125 cascs have been config J9 recovered and six deaths. Eighty-fo“r^le arc being mon­ itored or quanmlin^,n ,h‘‘l county. See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. j-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastinn^citV limits grant applications. “In today’s connected world, quality broadband service is no longer a luxury. It is essential.” Commissioner Dan Parker, R-Thomapple Township, said the COVID-19 virus has underscored the need for expanded broad­ band, particularly for students in isolated areas who may not be able to keep up with schoolwork because they don't have internet access. “I think, with the coronavirus, this will be even more important to get something going." Parker said. Jennifer Heinzman. who recently took over as executive director of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance, said she recognizes that broadband expansion is key to the coun­ ty's economic development. She said the county could pursue something similar to a project she undertook in her previous role as executive director of the chamber of com­ merce in Mecosta County. “We created a map, and people could just go onto our website, they could drop a flag wherever their house was if it had less than adequate [broadband] service, and then we used that map to work w'ith all the local pro­ viders to fill in the gaps." Heinzman said. Williamson made a final point to show the impact of the lack of internet accessibility: "A couple years ago, a Grand Rapids-based family bought a parcel next to me. ...Then I received a text message: ‘Hey Ken. ... our builder’s all lined up ... who do I contact to set up internet? Comcast or AT&T?’ I replied. ‘You’re kidding, right? ... Sorry, dude, your Realtor did not tell you you bought a piece of property in an internet dead-zone. “You can’t get reliable internet here." One week later. Williamson said, a “For Sale" sign went up on the neighboring proper­ ty. and that family ended up building in Byron Center. His point in raising this issue, Williamson said, was not to blame anyone but to ask this question: “What can we do as members of the, Barry County community to improve internet; “So. my questions are: What are we doing­ now? What have we done? How can we get more MEI or Freedom Net lowers built around us? 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W)7 North Broadway Hastings. Michigan 49058 269 945-3495 �Pape 4 — Thursday. Apoi 30. 2020 — The Did you see Virus changed (andI is lives forever changing) our ', ,I ' Thankful for cell phones roi cn m thiLStS A 91-year-old Norma Earl visits her husband. Lewis, every day - through t window of Thornapple Manor. R®slder of the sub-acute care facility In Hasting have not been able Io have visitors the past six weeks to protect against ine spread of COVID-19. But that doesnt prevent this couple, who have bee ried tor 44 years, from seeing each othe every day and talking to each o e their cell phones. remember? Do you Senior Citizens Club celebrates Banner Feb. 27, 1969 Past presidents — Members of the Hastings area Senior Citizens Club cele­ brated the group’s 9th birthday Monday. In all, 106 were present at the Union Hall on Woodlawn Avenue for the potluck dinner and program. The organization was sponsored in 1960 by the Hastings Women’s Club. Past presidents of the group at Monday’s celebration included (from left) Harvey Burgess. Ray Wolfe, Ray Erway, Harold Bugbee and Clay Adams. Lottie Matthews was serving as the current president. Have you met? During his 97 years. Bob Doud has pursued recreational and competitive sports - and he’s still competing and setting world and national records in the swimming pool. The Fine Lake resident is an active member of the Battle Creek YMCA Masters Swim team and is ranked nationally and in the world for his accomplishments in the Masters Swimming Program. He has won countless trophies, medals and ribbons. To mention them all would probably fill two newspaper pages. Randy Parker, who swims in a different age bracket on Doud’s swim team, announced on Doud’s birthday this week that the US. Master’s Swimming Program has just received lhe final tally of Top 10 swimmers for 2019. He said Doud has four Top Ten spots and ranks No. I in his 95-99 age group. Examples of his wins over the years include the time, at age 91, he won seven events in Milford, and set records for his age group in the 200-yard butterfly, 500-yard freestyle and 200-yard medley. He also was the high point winner for his age group. Doud also earned All-American honors in eight individual events and in one relay, recognized by the U.S. Masters Swimming program. He also was the first and only man in the world in the 90-94 age group to have 10 Top 10 swims. In 2009, Doud was awarded lhe Michigan Masters’ Lawrence Award for outstanding performances in Masters Swimming. He received a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. At age 95, while competing in Ohio, Doud broke a world record in the 200-meter long coarse meter butterfly by more than two minutes. His time was 11.47.68 in a 50-meter pool. At 90. he was the oldest person to complete the Goguac Lake Swim. “I swam for recreation in childhood, but I didn’t join a team. That was a mistake,” Doud said. ‘‘When I was an adult, I started swimming at Riverside Pool, and they had two lanes open after 6 o’clock. Another guy and I started using those lanes, and that’s when 1 started swimming distances ... I got into Senior Olympics when J was 50. 1 did well in (hat. I went to some national meets. When the Masters program started, 1 went into that (around age 70].” For the time being, all of his swimming events have been canceled because of the CO VID-19 pandemic. “I’m only half as fast as I was," Doud said, but lie’s still winning. "The award that was the most surprising was the 50-yard butterfly,” he said. “I’m amazed with all the swimmers in the world that some of these guys, who are much better swimmers than me. don’t compete in it.’’ The son of Raymond and Doris Doud, he Bob Doud grew up in Battle Creek. His dad owned Doud’s Pharmacy on Capital Avenue in Battle Creek for 37 years. After graduating from Battle Creek Central with the Class of 1941. Doud studied at Michigan Tech. His next educational experience was in a special World War 11 program, which recruited mechanical engineers to turn them into aircraft engineers. Doud, an Eagle Scout whose talent was in drafting, was in a group sent to Chicago to attend an engineering school tor 16 w eeks. I hen he went to Texas for more classes and had the opportunity to work on the design of the B-36 bomber. “I liked that work. 1 liked that precision drafting.” he said. He eventually returned to Battle Creek and worked as an engineer al Clark Equipment for 37 years. He met his wife, the former 1 Airis “Lori” Schuster at a dance at Gull Lake. She died in 2009. They raised three children. Mary Ann. Daniel and Tom. He has 10 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren plus one on lhe way. Doud’s Barry County roots go back to around 1843 when his ancestors settled in the Cedar Creek area. “Cedar Creek was a desolate place. They couldn’t market their crops, ami there was no railroad. Some ol the men would have to walk up north oi there and work us laborers on a farm to get enough cash to buy stuff that they couldn’t raise,” he said. Doud has lived al Fine Lake for about 30 years and still enjoys taking a rowboat out on the water by himself. For many years, he rode a bike 10 miles around the lake about four days a week. Other athletic endeavors over the years have included ice hexkey. which Doud started while a Michigan lech .student and eventually joined an adult hockey league tor players over 30. Hfcikaled with that group lor 30 y ears, left A* « fow years and then pul liis ice skates Kick on ”1 made the inistile of going back in it. and when I was 67. 1 injured my knee. 1 pulled ligaments and have u screw to hold it together. It doesn’t bother me. I should have let well enough alone. I continued to skate,” he said. He belongs to St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Battle Creek, and is a life member of the Masonic Lodge and the Elks Lodge. Doud also p the chairman of the reunion for Central's Class of 1941. "We used to meet monthly, but the last several ycirs people have died off.” Because of his zest for life and being an inspiration to many through his swimming and other athletic accomplishments. Bob Doud is a Banner Bright Light. Best part of my career: When 1 was w orking on the design of the B-36 bomber. Favorite swimming stroke: Freestyle. My hero: Mike Pompeo, |L’ .S. Secretary of State] because of his credentials and his intelligence. He’s tremendously smart. He’s able to think things through, and his brain power is exceedingly more dlan other people. Best advice ever received: Was from Donald Sherman, a professor at Michigan Tech, who taught a required course in mine first aid. He drew a diagram on the board and showed that in the lung5 >'ou *?ave ^ese cells, and that cigarette smoking will destroy those cells. He was ahead his timc*At lhc same lime people were encouraging others to smoke. He was front Battle Creek and also was a football e<uch and a*h,elic director at Michigan Tech. There’s an athletic building named Mi"1*!?? .. . . Biggest influence in W I,fe: dad; he was smarter than nKwas a pood‘ great man. First thing | bought ">th own money : A bicycle. , ... c FmkOpite TV progrfl,ns; e ox News, Newsmax and One Africa News. I'm><>rite dinner: .nn i, Gnealest president: Ron'1 d, Fati-ritesportsteaniiM1” 1 x? >"•’ one. bi"> । don’t. I do f«'<* ",c Mlch,San Tech hiockey team. i . J.-r for a feature abouthe celebrated his 97th 5° Ser Uadi week, 77,.. « knnxi 'k0U .ad be featured K"*>. til or any other reason? । LSI N. M-43 nS’! t"“ “ e,nail "if.,away, Hastings, Ml 4 l‘ews6.j.,u|,.ruphivs’toiil New Year’s Eve ball drops carry so much optimism and hope. How different the celebration would have been four months ago had wc seen lhe black train of ruin bearing down on our lives and thc world’s greatest economy. It started out so quietly those first few days of January with reports of a virus in China that, within weeks, led to a national quarantine here after lhe president declared a rare public health emergency. Thc announcement sent shockwaves through thc stock market and shook once world-powerful industries to their knees. Little did we know as we wore our New Year’s party hats, blew noisemakers and sang “Auld Lang Syne” that one of the worst health pandemics thc world has ever known was peering at us from lhe shadows. How could wc have even imagined that the strongest economy we’ve seen in our lifetime would be totally shut down, with thousands of sick Americans dying in overcrowded hospital hallways and unemployment numbers still growing to thc level of the Great Depression? And who could have thought that “Opening Up America” wouldn’t happen until April when 20 states representing only 40 percent of the U.S. population would announce attempts to safely restart their economics - leading us all to wonder what this resumption will look like? 1 believe thc bigger question on which we should focus, though, begins with what’s inside us. “Life isn’t about wailing for the storm to pass, it's about learning how to dance in the rain,” author Vivien Greene said. Thc attitude we accept will make a big difference on how long it takes to begin to heal. There’s power within each of us to overcome lhe threat the virus has caused in our lives, though the danger is still so real. I know of some people who haven’t left their homes since the president announced lhe stay-at-home order, accepting lhe confinement based on their personal health. For those people, it will take even longer before they feel confident in venturing far from home. The administration will have a big job in convincing Americans it has thc coronavirus outbreak firmly under control lx*fore the economy can resume to some normalcy. We just don’t know when some medical breakthrough might emerge that gives us the confidence we’ll need to resume life as we once knew it. Some experts warn it could take months, maybe years, before we experience life as it was. Economists are warning the new normal will be different, because consumers need confidence before they’ll be willing to participate in so many activities. We also won’t know how many of the jobs and businesses lost will even come back. Plus, supply chains have been broken and will have lo be rebuilt. In last weekend’s Reminder, we focused on how farmers have been impacted by the loss of business and are faced with throwing out milk due to the loss of sales to schools, restaurants and companies that use milk products. And industries all over the slate will be impacted for months at least until the supply line gets up and operating again. In the printing business, paper companies were shut down or arc running al half capacity due to market conditions. It’s not likely to be a "V-shaped” recovery’ - an upward recovery spike as dramatic as lhe downward fall the president has forecasted due to lhe structural damage the virus has caused. “The shock from lhe virus is going to be enough to tip off at least a normal recession in lhe rest of lhe economy beyond these direct effects of the sectors that we have had to shut down,” Jesse Edgerton, economist at JPMorgan, said. “We should expect thc next nine months or a year to look like a recession, to continue to see high levels of unemployment and depressed levels of output. It will be a least a few years before we feel as good as we did in January." z Naturally, the president is looking for a V-shaped return, but a lot of things have happened in lhe past three months to make his projections possible. Yet Monday, in response to JPMorgan’s comments, the What do you lo pCnl, tk>n is recommending stales to "S economies as quickly as shapes ” possible but safely. '^rSVeX Ctolanet Y^len ", realli' depends, to my mind on just Sa,d. It really f dunllg thc limc how much damag The more u.ffcr for economy will never oc wimng to Zst the safety of ventunng far from home. The same goes for large venues like concerts and sporting events. Where crowding exists, it will take tune before people feel comfortable again. AndI since people have been hunkenng down in their homes, getting back to ‘rad,h°"s.',l“ attending weekly church services, going to favorite restaurants and attending spec.al community events could be impacted for a while, as well. r , Though we will continue to face a period of uncertainly and struggle, this also will be a time to again feel that we will overcome this crisis and be able to turn our problems inloopportunities. “Every adversity carries with it the seed of an equivalent or greater benefit, author Napoleon Hill said. As Americans, we’ve faced adversity before, and history shows we have what it takes to overcome the anxieties of trying events and come back stronger than ever. Going forward, I think as a nation, we realize we’re more vulnerable than wc thought. A physical enemy caused 9/11, but an unseen enemy attacked us with this pandemic, which is threatening not just our country, but also nations around the world. We came back stronger following 9/11; we can come back stronger once we beat back this health threat. How we come back will change the world for good, even if we can’t yet sec it. For instance, we know that touching things or being close to others in close proximity can be risky. So how will this new awareness change lhe way we deal with one another? Will more things be done online? Will we be content to distance ourselves rather than doing things in person, and will we continue to accept the benefits that distancing offers? And will a new sense of patriotism emerge from all of this, as we have a stronger sense of respect for our doctors, nurses, teachers, caregivers, pharmacists and store workers who continued to serve us amidst personal threat but were willing to be there when we needed them most? And could our political climate change, moving us from a system plagued by confrontation to a culture of solving problems to move America forward? Hopefully, within a few months, we will find ways to overcome this virus, with new medicines and even a vaccine. The threat it has caused our way of life, though, will take years to overcome. In lhe end. it won’t look like it did. The question is, what will it look like? 1 think it really depends on us and what we’re willing to demand from our future. I think there’s reason lo be excited for what’s ahead. Fred Jacobs. CEO J-Ad Graphics, Inc. till Ilk? Here’s your chanceto share your opinion. Send responses to «titor@j.adgraphics.com For this week: ' ~ Apple and Google are talking about toaminn nn system that would alert users if they’re in the vicin’, v otT’8 3 smarlPhone tested positive for COVID-19. n 0 someone who has Some people view this as an effective wav to nr«t^. u. express concern about violation of privacy rights °ls U, pUb lc heal,h- others �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. April 30. 2020 — Page 5 What d°es the U.S. Postal Service mean to us? Ib the Why sherf ' Stales Postal Sc^ •trenev The hl*10? . Ser|d in the clowns the Editor; man and' his'1?.. .X”’ ' at,c,,dc<i •’ circus. A Alter intcntlv'w ..4 i"" lr<’"' "* ,ne«ked his dad • WhatX1^ d""ns’,he son ‘meus is closed ’ “W* •• Uhc" ll,c "I guess they ..... 1. ’ , "s ‘!ad responded, day." To , "|l around all "’'yhaseanthi L™ re<poniWuan>'h'ng better todo?" <he'umeXXIC8iS,aU’"Sh0U,dbcasW nreXfacin"'d,Wl'e" S° '”an> vrisis challenges apparently Vanous constituencies, they 'ics as usual*. ' "**" i"”u,Kl "i”1*' to addrvs^rk "'i? "" n,orc ilnl’onal" issues ronn.;.^ hc> have chow" 10 establish one on th • cnvin'tf| P*” Select Committee mittee £ ,l’?9 l’:,nde,nk'" Will this coinm tee harness the talents and resources of our state government to address thc needs of famHies who are struggling? Of course not! seems our elected representatives (on care . ? 1Doul the United Service k , both sides of the great divide) think there is nothing more urgent to do than appoint 10 of their colleagues to review and assess whether or not what has been done in response to the C0V1D-19 crisis has been •‘proper.” “Proper?” Really? What would be “proper” in this time of crisis is for our elected representatives to act as competent leaders for the people in their districts who now. more than ever, are looking to them for reassuring answers. What would be “proper” is for our elected representatives to put aside their petty politics (even if it is just for a little while) and work together for all of lhe people in this state w ho so desperately need help. Now more than ever, our leaders must rise to the occasion and stop clowning around. Another committee? Don’t they have anything better to do? John Hock, Delton quality of scrvi^employed wontcn when few others . us/ $ is complex ,lk Civil War, it ^r,can-Americnns °. So for generations s£?s=r Here are a , facls «hout the USPS and Cong^\.^‘n, ^nt decline: h is not quite a ™£nt agency, and not quite a private corporation. Congress has The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Mi 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov US mail- Sen Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. Civil disobedience masked as peaceful protest To the Editor: 1 have participat’d in perhaps a dozen peaceful protest demonstrations in my life: against lhe Vietnam N'ar, for civil rights, against nuclear ranged in size from a few dozen lo a few hundred thousand. Al no lime did they pose a threat to thc health and safety of the general public, although they may nave upset or inconve­ nienced others temporanly. Most emphatically this is not true of those To the Editor: They say, sometimes, lhe messenger gets in thc way of the message. Well, sometimes blinders on the listener get in the way, loo. If the editor will permit, I’d like to get myself out of the way first: I ran for State Senate in 2018 for Barn-. Calhoun and Ionia counties. I grew up pretty much an indepen­ dent, voted across the spectrum. To this day, I want to give good ideas a fair listen. There have been a few things (very few) that I agree with from our president, but they have hap­ pened. And there have been things I disagree with from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Across all politicians, I'm against big money in politics. Il has bought and sold our nation and this counts a false bill of sale. Il’s tied health care to employment, which seems short-sighted when disaster strikes and employment goes awry. 1 It has sold us a false dream that we could all make it. It has bought us politicians who. over decades, hurt lhe working class, making families go from single earner to two earners lo multiple jobs per person working, and made education nnd trades skills out of reach for some. This should be a nonpartisan issue that is as self-evident as the truths we hold dear in lhe Declaration of Independence. What we have today is country club gover­ nance with titans of industry demanding we all go back to work. This proves they arc not lhe drivers of the economy: You are. They make nothing without your labor and without your buying power. And you know as 1 do, you’re not getting bailouts and bonuses on The Hastings BcUUlCf ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT Hank Schuuring CFO CtoSirtrfld Adj accepted Monday through S30am. to500pm. ’1 Scott Ommen Ty Greem^ri Mike Gilmore Colleen EoIacL Jennie Yonker O^slon Subscription Rates: $45 per ye^BanyCo77~ •NEWSROOMRebecca Pierce (Ed'tor) Katny Maurer (Copy Breit Bieber (Sports £4 f ) Greg Chandler fa’Zc’ O'V-f-* 1 who flout social distancing guidelines or the wearing of masks in public. They are not only risking their own health, but they also are endangering the lives of everyone else in our community. This is not among their “rights” as citizens. They - and those who chose to block traffic in Lin si ng recently - arc not engaged in peaceful protest, but rather are committing acts of civil disobedience. They should expect to face legal and social consequences $50 pet year in adjoining counti&s $55 per year eisowhofu POSTU/vSTEn. Send addrviV ciuhm- T P.O Box 1 fcfi HasJ^s. Ml 49CM-01t8 Svrcnd Class Poiiagi- Panj al Ha%l<ngs. Ml X30S8 y pace with any of them. While they get 200 percent increases in salary-, you’re not seeing even a 5 percent increase over 40 years. You have to go to work and beg for a pennies-anhour increase once a year. This virus has upended ever) thing, proving employment-tied health care is junk, that it didn’t cover anything anyway. It was expen­ sive. It didn’t actually let you choose your doctor. This virus proves where thc economic backbone is. This nation changes when we vole for lead­ ers who actually have plans for when automa­ tion comes. And this virus will only speed up that process with computers and robots that don’t get coronavirus or take sick days. This country moves forward when we stop being single-issue voters. When we stop getting in the way of lhe message. When we take blind­ ers off. Just because a “D” is after the name doesn’t mean it’s a bad idea. We need to stop thinking an anarchist’s view of “no govern­ ment at all" is going to magic this away. Government is, itself, as neutral a tool as any pair of scissors. It’s in the hands of people and incompetence or meanness or indiffer­ ence is government at its worst. So, yes, as you know me. I’ve got a party I belong to. but I’m not owned or bought by anyone. I won’t shill for bad ideas or bad peo­ ple. So I’m asking you to hold our representa­ tives accountable and get party preferences out of the way as we push for solutions that do something to help us - and to stop this public health crisis. Jail proposal prompts questions, ideas from law-abiding taxpayer To the Editor: After reading the front page article in the Banner, Thursday, April 16, regarding the jail bond proposal. I was left with the impression U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent. 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House that the commissioners were in a quandary Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ about what to do. This led to my confusion and some thoughts 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, and questions regarding the situation came to phone (616) 451-8383. me. Asking people to vole to raise property U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. taxes seeing as they seem to increase every year as it is. should include overwhelming 2°Gan Peters democrat. 2 Russell Senate Office Building Washington. D.C. 20510- information that this is truly necessary and . oon? nhone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, R00m cost effective. 72S11J Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616]1 233 Three different scenarios all costing the same? Hard to imag*nc- If the jail is not use­ 91president's comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Cap... 77........ mation line for Congress able, will it be be tom down or slay a piece of county property t,ial wilJ neetJ repairs that and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. taxpayers will continue to be paying for that also? If the building >s ,n shambles, then tear it down and use the property. Is there a “work-mlease facility,” avail­ able? Not everyone arrested has to be locked UP behind bars- $a,IK 9Ucslion regarding mentally ill folks ull° rea|ly need to be in n,to the Interests of Barry County since 1856 D Hastings Banner Inc. proper facilities a«d n?Uch more cost-effec­ tive. more humane a«>d productive for them, A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. h M 43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 and easier on jail stall ’who may not have the L relays-nows^ adgraph'cs.con, ■ Advert,s,ng: .ads&j-adOraphlcs necessary- training10 dea w’lh such individuNews and press _____ _________________________ i Would nlso<lue’,,,“"?.,1r'.9ci^r’s Publisher & CBO USPS cannot invest in newer technologies and systems to keep its operations up-to-date. The current administration believes that the answer to USPS woes is to privatize lhe post office. What would that mean to you and me? Much higher postage rates would be likely. (President Trump is already saying it needs to quadruple those rates.) free rural delivery could well be a thing of thc past. Even doorto-door delivery in town might require a sub­ scription just to receive mail. Ami the quality of service? Let mu just note that I’ve never ever had a USPS delivery tossed into the bushes at the top of my long, country drive­ way the way I have had packages “delivered” by UPS and FedEx. Let’s consider, loo, what would happen to postal employees: Reduced salaries and benefits, almost certainly. Good jobs gone. This November, should you decide to vote by mail - as is our right - be thankful wc have the world’s most efficient postal system at our front doors! Elspeth Inglis, Barry Township as a result. 1 propose that they should be required to serve on lhe committee that chooses the names of those additional people who will suffer and die as a result of their reckless and selfish actions. Fair enough? Mark Bonsignore, Delton Knee-jerk party preferences can blind us (Write Us A Letter: Frederic Jacobs oversight of the USPS and controls its budget, yet it is not lax-funded. It must make its bud­ get through sales of postage, products and services such as po<t office box rentals. It delivers 472.1 million pieces of mail each day. It has nearly 5(X).(XX) career employees (and most of those jobs don’t require a costly college degree). Its revenue is around $70 billion and its debt is growing. Why? Certainly, letter mail has decreased as more and more of us use digital communications. At the same time, more and more of us are shopping online and have deliveries of goods. That will likely further increase as the pan­ demic plays out, perhaps changing some peo­ ple’s shopping habits for good. Thc lion’s share of lhe woes at USPS can be laid at thc feel of President George W. Bush and his administration and the congressional mandate in 2006 requiring the USPS to pre-fund its retiree health benefit fund for 50 years, caus­ ing a huge and detrimental impact on its annu­ al bottom line. No other government or pri­ vate entity is required to do this. One result of this negative impact on its finances is that the ment “the iail isg0,n^ . t UI ’11 s Just a matter time.” What ini0nna ,on d°es he possess that would lead him to say that? Everything *•11 fail eventually mai"iai»«l. But if there is P100^''hat 11 '™uld '<» expensive W , reno'-i«'. 'ben that to my foreF0'^ "enI ,hal '* shoul<l M^Ps'rkcr >a>’ '*’i,in8 next year that » 'vomd °-0')0',,I,,s1 f,,r a special election " % w,, u’nce'" about a "special eleclioit c<” . „ lrv Wai lllat e011’ ec'n wh™ cotn"’^': J r,Paid ^B-000 10 wording the ballot proposal and to reiterate what apparently someone or group with “County’s Facilities Master Plan” had already concluded. Doesn’t sound like much for $50,000. Ms. Wing make the statement about relo­ cating staff and prisoners if a new roof would be required and that the cost would go over her million-dollar estimate. Then why is the first option presented as an option, tearing the building down would require locating every­ one also, if this is such a more costly way to go about it. How about one good plan? Who, and how, in county’s Facilities Master Plan came up with the determination that the jail needed replacing? Are they qualified structural engineers or not? If that determina­ tion has already been adequately ascertained, you wouldn’t need TowerPinkster to reiterate • . What’s going lo happen if. whenever it goes up for a vote, it fails? Is there a backup plan? . A thought: If the people utilizing the facili­ ty could receive counseling and given access information as to resources that could possi­ bly help them get their lives headed in a more productive direction. Maybe smoking and drug cessation, acquiring a GED, job opportu­ nities, and such. ... . I^et inmates out sooner for good behavior and showing some initiative to improve t eir situation. Have mandator) follow-up to see if things are working out - also as a condition it. for early release. . ... When they arc employed, they should be charged a nominal amount until the) ave “literally” repaid their debt to society. Hus. hopefully. would lie used to defray s 1 cleaning, maintenance of the fact i) an wages. r This would help to keep la3ie’ 0*11 or “law-abiding" taxpayer*. JanlcsMcro. Hastings And all the people said: Amen! Jason Noble, Middleville When telling tales gets scary To the Editor: Most of my adult life 1 was aware that my father had a strange relationship with the truth. I did not consider him a liar. He meant no harm and he didn’t fib about important things, but he just couldn’t stick to the truth. And I use lhe word “couldn’t” intentionally. He would change lhe stories about his life or his observations on a regular basis without any recognition that two versions of thc same event with entirely different facts can’t both be true. In one telling of the same event, he might have been there with just our mother and, later, he was there with just me. It drove my mother and I crazy. We knew he was fib­ bing, but challenging him would just start a futile argument. He would completely deny that he had changed the story. It was “our” problem. My dad was a good businessman and a relatively successful investor. But you had to be careful taking investment advice from him. He would warn me that lhe market was going to drop and that I should unload stock from my IRA. Then, two weeks later, when the market went up. he would tell me that he had bought some slock and made a bunch of money. I would say, “You told me that market would go down." He’d say that he never said that. He claimed that he had predicted the market would go up and he did great. His version of events was always intended to make him look good. I always believed my dad loved me and wanted the best for me. I just didn’t always believe what he said. Fortunately, as a medi­ cal professional, he was much more careful about sticking to scientific facts when he gave me advice about my health. My father was exasperating, but not dangerous. I came to understand that he wasn’t lying as much as the fact that he didn’t understand the value of always trying lo tell the truth. 1 think he actu­ ally believed his falsehoods at the lime he told them. But he did not realize how it coulj damage personal relationships to stray front the truth. I can’t claim lo know what is going on in Donald Trump’s mind, but living with my father has helped me to understand Donald 'frump and his strange relationship with the truth. His version of events is always intended to make him look good. I might say he is lying; you might say he means well. But it is indisputable that the president just can’t slick to thc facts. And, unlike my father his tendency to dance all around the truth can be dangerous. One letter to the editor can’t cover all of the times the president has totally changed his story to suit his immediate concern. But let’s take an important one: At the beginning of the current pandemic, Mr. Trump excused the delayed response to the threat to the nation by saying, “Nobody knew there would be a pan­ demic or epidemic of this pro|X)rtion.” Then he said, “I’ve always known this is a real this is a pandemic. I felt it was a pandemic long before it was called a pandemic. pv, always viewed it as very serious.” Both state­ ments can’t be true. In fact, neither statement is true. He just didn’t want to be blamed far not acting soon enough. I sec the similarities between my father nnd President Trump. cr The difference is my father wasn’t dancer OUS. b*' Dr. Kenneth M.Komheiser l-ramevillc Township �Bonnie Joyce Sherman Shirle) Hazel Stonebumer, age 88 of 25,S)20P HWay 31 her h°,nc °n Apri‘ Shirley was bom on January 7,1932 at her fcmily home in Orangeville Township to James and Emma (Hughes) Nevins. After graduating from Delton-Kellogg High School m 1949. Shirley attended Western Michigan University for two years. She forked at Sutherland Paper Mill on the production line for seven years where she Kiel her husband. James Stonebumer. On May 18. 1957 in Kalamazoo, Shirlev and James were wed and together they shared 62 Wonderful years before his passing on August 9,2019. • Shirley enjoyed helping out with chores ajound the farm, canning and freezing their garden vegetables, cooking, reading. Watching University of Michigan football games, and indulging in their favorite ice cream. She truly had a servant’s heart and was very* selfless. Shirley loved to take care 6i others especially her family and friends, and enjoyed spending as much time with them as she could. Shirley was a true prayer warrior and loved the Lord. She was a longtime active member ot Hickory Comers Bible Church. Shirley is survived by her children. James (Kristy) Stonebumer. Teresa (Don) Cichy, Jodi (Mark) Visser. Michele (Ken) Hicks, Alyssa (Beto) Arias; 16 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren with one on thc way; and many nieces and nephews. Shirley was also preceded in death by her parents; brother. Hugh James (Lucille) Nevins: and sister, Ruth Eva (Max) Anable. I*rivatc burial will take place al Cedar Creek Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association, or Hickory Comers Bible Church will be appreciated. Please visit www.uilliamsgoresfuneral.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Shirley’s family. Edsel L. Puch. age 92. of Bellevue, passed away on April 22. 2020. at Slone Ridge Adult Foster Care. He was bom on November 6. 1927. in Battle Creek to Charlie and Fem (Ewing) Pugh. He graduated from Lakeview High School in 1946. He was a veteran serving in the U.S. Army. Edsel worked as a carpenter, a volunteer fireman in Battle Creek (Lakeview) Ml lor many years. He also retired from the Kellogg Company. He enjoyed camping with his family, traveling in his motorhome, hunting, fishing. NASCAR racing and Sunday dinners with his family. I Ic was preceded in death by his parents, wife. Emma (Toby) Pugh of 42 years; a brother. Lyston Pugh and a step-grandson. Jason DcMolt. He is survived by his three daughters. Diana (Vem) Stenberg. Geraldine (Richard) Thayer and Charlene (Rick) Jones; four step­ daughters. Carol Bailey. Janet (Dan) Dix. Sandy (Harlan) De.Moti and Cathy Titus; grandchildren, Tammie (Chad) VanSyckle, Brad (Cara) Thayer, Rick Stenberg. Lcsa (Mark) Blanton. Kate Jones and Charlie Jones; step-grandchildren. Bree (Dave) Bennett. Zack (Nikki) Westdrop. Rachel (Adam) Moreland. Sarah (Dominic) Maze and Justin (Heather) DeMolt. He also has 10 great grandchildren. 12 step-great grandchildren and two great great grandsons A private visitation was held Monday. April 27. 2020, followed by a private graveside service at Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens. Arrangements by the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home and Cremation Services, www .henry funeralhome .org CITY OF HASTINGS PUBLIC NOTICE ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 588 The undersigned, being the duly qualified and acting Clerk of the City of Hastings, Michigan, does hereby certify that ORDINANCE NO. 588: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 53 OF THE HASTINGS CODE OF 1970, AS AMENDED, BY AMENDING ARTICLE IV, BY ELIMINATING THE EXPIRATION OF THE PROHIBITIONS. was adopted by the City Council of the City of Hastings at a regular meeting on the 27th day of April, 2020. A comolete copy of this Ordinance is available for review at the office of the City Clerk at City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Ronald Kenneth SteveWj Hastings, passed away rr , • 2020 at Woodlawn Me»doWS ; \ . Ass,slcd Living facility. . c . Ron was bom on Septen1^ ’ lI] Battle Creek, the son of S. Kenneth and Dorothy (Clark) Stevens. He graduated front Lakeview High School in Battle Creek then Michigan State College, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in 1956. While at MSC. Ron was an active member of Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity, Glee Club. Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTO, and the Dairy Judging Team. In 1956, he was voted “Big Man on C ampus . Anyone who knew him, knew his blood ran green, as he was truly a loyal supporter of his beloved Michigan State University. His graduation day from MSC was a busy one. ns he went' from his graduation ceremony to his wedding ceremony, where he married Barbara A. Sueezey at Lakeview Baptist Church in Battle Creek, lhe two began their life together with Ron beginning his commission into the U.S. Army. Ron retired as a teacher from Lakewood High School. During his years at Lakewood, he taught various courses including Agriculture, Computers, and AG Shop. Teaching was a big part of Ron’s life as he was also an adjunct faculty member of Michigan Stale University tor many years. His involvement in sports started when his boys were young, aS he volunteered as their Little League baseball coach. From there, he went on to coach the Lakewood girl’s high school softball team, and was a referee for high school football, basketball, baseball,and softball games. Ron believed in the importance of agriculture to the U.S. economy, he volunteered his time and talents to the support of the Future Farmers of America (FFA). His involvement included State FFA judging in Leadership Skills and State Broiler contests, in which he was still actively participating. A true believer in giving of one’s time and talents, he was an active member of Woodgrove Brethren Christian Parish, and an active volunteer al Manna’s Market, and American Red Cross Blood drives. Ron was preceded in death by his parents, S. Kenneth and Dorothy Stevens; his wife. Barbara A. (Swcezey) Stevens; and cousin. Marilyn Midgely. He is survived by his sons.Tim Stevens of Donr, Terry’ (Denise) Stevens of Woodland, and Tom (Tina) Stevens of Holland; his sister, Reita WiUbur of Battle Creek, several grandchildren, nieces and nephews. A memorial celebration of R«n’s ,ifc be held for his many friends and family at a later dale. Memorial contributions may be! made to Manna’s Market in LakcOdcssa’ M,ch,8anArrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhonie.net. Jane M. Saurman City Clerk 14G539 CITY OF HASTINGS PUBLIC NOTICE ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 587 . hoinn the duly qualified and acting Clerk of the City of housing, contlnued from page 1 on senior 1„ ff0r,s are 51 Let study 300 adults beLeen1'^11’^'^60 “"d “t I" 22 ?|C™ IV BY ELlMN’TiNG THE EXPIRATION OF THE PROHIBITIONS. ARTI J lhe City Council of the City of Hastings at a regular meeting on was adopted by the ony the 27th day of Apnl, 202 . . this Ordinance is available for review at the office of the City A complete copy of th>s Has(ings. Monday through Friday, 8:00 Clerk at City Hall. 201 bast fneUiti!’0,ne P°in'- ‘he „.L-|jon of any faith and AM to 5:00 PM. Jane M, Saurman City Clerk .... "• Haney told thc Moses Leroy Nafzinger. age 90, passed away on April 27. 2020 at Thomapple Manor in Hastings. He was born on November 6. 1929 on the family farm in Ixing Green. Mary land to Krabill Nafzinger and Lewis M. Nafzinger. He graduated from Towson High ^chool. jn Towson, Maryland. Juniata College, in Huntingdon Pennsylvania, and received his medical degree from the I niversity of Maryland in Baltimore. He met his future wife. Jean Larue Wolfe, when she was in nursing school at Church Home Hospital in Baltimore, while he was performing his residency there. He entered the US. Navy and was stationed at Quantico. Virginia. He and Jean opened a medical practice, that they worked in the evenings, in a room over a drugstore. After his discharge from the Navy they stayed in that area working together to provide medical services to the Woodbridge, Virginia community for over 42 years. In the early years his family lived over the office, and since there wasn’t a hospital nearby, he also had a small emergency room. The family eventually moved to Fairfax Station, Virginia. He and Jean retired from their medical practice in 1998. Jean predeceased him in 2004 as the result of an automobile accident. They had celebrated 49 years of marriage. In 2011, Mo moved to Michigan to live with his daughter. “Doctor Mo” was a kind and gentle person who treated everyone with respect. He was a quiet person, seldom seeking attention for himself, who was well-liked by all. Very intelligent, he was an avid reader, a gardener, a bridge player, bowler and a stamp collector, lie was a loving husband and father, a wonderful role model He enjoyed animals and the family home included numerous cats, dogs and rabbits. Each year he vacationed with his family in Ocean City, Maryland where he relaxed by reading books, bicycling, eating crabs and floating in thc ocean. He found pleasure in feeding the deer, birds, squirrels and chipmunks that visited his backyard. He was a member of the Occoquan Masonic Lodge and rose to the Degree of Master Mason. In recent years, a livelier personality emerged and he became a favorite resident at Thomapple Manor where he moved in 2014. His daughters will be forever grateful for the excellent care that he received there. The staff treated him as if he were part of their family and called him “Grandpa.” Mo was preceded in death by his parents. Lois and Lewis Nafzinger; his brother, John Nafzinger and his sister-in-law. Shirley. He is survived by his daughters Karen Moore (Tom) of Fairfax Station. Virginia and Nancy Carter (Jim) of Battle Creek. Michigan. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Johanna Moore. Kathryn Moore, Tom Carter and Becky Carter (Eric Charles), and his great-grandson. Shannon Charles. He is also survived by his brother. Clyde Nafzinger (Carolyn); his sisters-inlaw, Sandra Nafzinger and Erica Nafzinger, his brother-in-law, Keith Michael and his sister-in-law. Marion Michael. Memorial contributions may be made to Thomapple Manor. 2700 Nashville Road, Hastings, Ml 49058 or to Brain Chemistr)’ Labs. 1130 South Highway 89, Suite 3. Jackson. \VY 83001 to support Alzheimer’s research. In accordance with his wishes, cremation has occurred. A celebration of life will be held at a later date in Virginia with interment to follow in Fairfax Memorial Gardens, next to his wife Jean. Arrangements provided by Girrbach Funeral Home. Hastings, Michigan.To lease online condolences visit www. ginbachfuneralhome.net. 1^ would be “We have slowed things down, obviously. Do we pause everything to see if everything rebounds a bit? We will consider moving forward if that’s the appropriate thing to do.’’ Commissioner Dave Jackson told Haney. "As we continue to look at lhe economic situation going forward, 1 would encourage you to continue down this path as far as get­ ting the finances and lhe projections, Tm in favor of what }ou’rc doing.’’ No project would be pursued if it’s not financially self-sustaining, Haney empha­ sized. Last August, Haney estimated that thc cost to determine financial feasibility and answers to other construction questions could run between $150,000 and $200,000, and that would conic out of the Thomapple Manor l»md balance. Bonnie Joyce Shermn. .ge 91 cf H .stings, passed away on April 22.2020. She wks born on Octoter 17. 1928. (he daughter of Fay and Viola (Williams. Voorheis. On January 24. 1953, Bonnie married Richard C. Sherman. Bonnie was a life member of the Order of the Eastern Star and a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. She was an avid reader. . Bonnie was preceded in death by her husband. Richard; her parents; a brother, Bart; sisters. Eileen and DeEltc. son-in-law, ’ferry Dull, and grandson. Mark Toliver II She is survived by her four children. Sylvia (Tony) Kidder. Karen (Mark Toliver) Sherman. Bruce (Kelly) Sherman, and Joyce (William) Dunne, grandchildren, Paul (Debby) Dull. Jake Kidder. Betsy Kidder. Rob Toliver. James Sherman. Peter Dunne; five great-grandchildren; one great-great grandson, and a host ot nieces and nephews. Memorial contributions in memory of Bonnie can be made to Thornapple Manor, 2700 Nashville Rd.. Hastings. MI 49058. Due to lhe Michigan Governor’s Executive Order limiting gatherings, thc family will schedule a visitation and service al a later date and will be posted at our website. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, to leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachiuncralhome.com. Richard Bernard Meade, age 76 of Hastings, passed away on April 29. 2020. Richard was born on April 28, 1944 in Battle Creek, the son of Arthur Truman and Irene Elizabeth (DcPauw ) Meade. Richard was a 1962 graduate of Hastings High School, and on October 3. 1964 he married Diana Beckwith. He proudly served his country in the US Marines from 1962­ 1970. He was employed by and retired from General Motors. Richard was a member of the Hastings Free Methodist Church and ~Post 45 American Legion, lie was an avid hunter and fisherman and enjoyed golfing. camping, family gatherings and picking on people. Richard was preceded in death bv his parents; his brother-in-law. Norman Forshev and his nephew, Michael Forshey. He is survived by his wife of 55 years Diana (Beckwith) Meade of Hastings; his sons. Richard (Sharon) Meade of Hastings 't™” ?k‘“dc of granddaughters Cassie (Jason) Bailey Of fk^'nus Ntkkie (Randy) Rioter of M.ddlevflie Lakeji Meade of Hastings, ■race Meade ol Hastings, and six „reat grandehildren: brothersRobin Dulauw of Otsego, Arthur (Delia) Meade of B ntk C^k'"11 "T f orshey of .nml.er-in.iaw, in law.Jane (Roberi) Pot-r ' '"iPheWS: "d SK'Cr- •^".onal contributions in mentorv of Richxuxl can be made to il>» n • Methodist Church, 2635 M Free 49058 or Spectrum Herd i h±M* spectnimhealth.org S,J\ P ’ SlVe* Foundation 1(X) Michigan Stre^vr lleU,th Rapids, Ml 4950} ' rcU M*. Grand llxecutKe Order” li,nhCl',iSa'1 G?Vttrnor’s family will schedule • vi'h kath':nngs, the website. posted at our Arrangements by Girrh u i, r\ Io leave an online condnl • rUner’1.1 Ho»ne. gurbachluneralhonie net V'KC’ V'Ml �Tho Hastings Banner — Thursday, Ap*.t 30. 2020 — Pago 7 Tracking doittcSJ'c cases can be tricky _ ”‘7 Su‘‘ WnDher. age 60 of Wayland. ‘1 ;>«ay on Apr,I 27. 2020 after a 10 .uar battle• „,lh <JeMlcn,i:,. S1„. tt.,s |)( '• t n ?,a'• l9w>-''* daughter of Ottle and Dolores (Stulls) Weeks. Diane was ft 19graduate of Thomapple Nellogt’ Hu h School and drove school bus lor Dio,nappie Kellogg Schools for 19 v^ais she liked crocheting. reading, antmals. and enjoyed sporting events, especially when family was playing. She loved spending time with her famiK and friends Diane was preceded in death by her parents and is survived by her sons. Steve (Nina) Wiersma of Middleville. Bret (Kate) Wiersma ot Middleville; her grandchildren, Brody, Riley, Owen and Layla; her brother, Duane (Dawn) Weeks of Middleville: her sister. Deb dim) Lukas of Hastings, and stepchildren. Drew. Blake and Abbey VanDiver; nieces. Deann Grabmeyer of Middleville. Denise (Andy) Price of Middleville. Stephanie Lukas of Hastings and nephew, Anthony (Kim) Lukas of Middleville, and many great nieces and nephews. The family would like to give a special thanks to The Laurels in Wayland. Kindred Hospice, and Hope Network in Grand Rapids. In lieu of Bovvers, please contribute lo Kindred Hospice Foundation. 625 Kenmoor Ave.. Suite 115 Grand Rapid**. Ml 49546. Cremation has taken place. Due to the Michigan Governor’s Executive Order limiting gatherings, a memorial service for Diane will be scheduled at a later date. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Horne, ’lo leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhomc.net. Taylor Owens Staff Writer Barry County Sheriff Dur Leaf recently mentioned an ’’uptick in domestics” during the Stay Home Stay Safe executive order in Michigan. But tracking that number can be difficult. Leaf told The Hastings Banner that the number of domestic cases recorded by the Barn- County Sheriff's Office hits not gone up, but lhe number of 911 calls of domestic disputes has increased. Barry County Central Dispatch Director Stephanie Lehman compared the numbers from this year to the same lime period last y car. Dispatch received 108 domestic complaint the sheriff s ,nay be called out to a track An <’, nut. by (he end of (|K. domestic coil I’ „„ ,hc U)ni|)h,inl investigation, .jffcrent category. lx-filed under ■> ||n. sheriff’s'()|flce havc Deputies r |fl domestic la||, ln which been respond. h:1Ve Ix'er, Mre,,t.d about (he people « pjndemic and slate shut­ money due u do»n.^»f^dy police Chief Jeff Prall said j e not noticed an increase in his Officers nav . (he domestic comply > SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Retirement planning 101 Vonda VanTil Public Affairs Specialist Social Security benefits are part of the retirement plan of almost every American worker. If you’re among the people covered under Social Security , y ou need lo know how much you might receive from us when you begin receiving benefits. These monthly pay­ ments may be a vital part of your retirement income. We base your benefit payment on how much you earned during your working career. Higher lifetime earnings result in higher ben­ efits. Il there were some years you didn’t work or had low earnings, your benefit amount may be lower than it you had worked steadily. Even if you havc never worked under Social Security, you may be able to get spouse’s retirement benefits if you are at least 62 years of age and your spouse receives retirement nr disability benefits. Our online retirement planners are a great place to start mapping out your retirement plan. You can access them at ssa.gov/planners retire. We provide important information that y ou should know. Have you considered: • When you should apply for retirement? • What documents you need lo provide? • Which factors may affect your retirement benefits? • What you should remember to do after >OYou am use ™r Calculator m ssa.gov/inyaccount io get an instant estimate of wur future ret^n benefits, and to see the effects of different retirement age scenari- On our website* )'ou H also find our Retirement Estimator. Il gives estimates based on your actual Social Security earnings record Please keep in that these are just estimates. You can access the Retirement Estimator at ssa.gov/cstimator. Once vou know your estimated retirement benefits.’ you can start coordinating other parts of your retirement plan Saving money is also important, h’s never too early to begin saving, and doing so can help you live more comfortably when you stop working. Benefits for family members may also be important to you. When you start receiving Social Security retirement benefits, members of your family may also qualify to receive benefits on your record. You can learn more al .ssa.gov/benefits. Please share this informa­ tion with family and friends to help them prepare tor retirement. Vonda VanTil is thcpublic affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Adminimation, 3045 Knapp NE. Grand Rapids Ml 49525. or via email to vonda.vaniiRtf ssa.uov. Charlton Park The Barry County Parks Commission has decided to cancel the annual Father’s Day Car Show, which had been scheduled June 21 at Historic Charlton Park -With all things COVID-19, the changes just keep comin.g and the adjustments to counter this virus continue to expand into the summer.” park direjetor and parks board mem­ Patton said in an April 29 press ber Dan ■After some lengthy discussion HCPRC and the Southern between the t Rod .Association, we are can­ Michigan Strev Park Father’s Day Car celing the C harlton Show for 2020 decii.ion. jHt’«av the right decision ... but we .ill Is .,..)0|c in attendance, «e With thousands ol p. I)k csposlltc felt it would poienti.il . • Cl)nsi(k.n.j hazard fol many peop • |ali„n rangc. lhe most vuln7’©,J..LyofourcomProtccting the hc.illh ’* ' ‘ ur staff uhimaternunity. our volunteers and our < iy Icdusto this ‘!cc|s“’"he said. The decision was n .1/. (9th annual given this would have been im Father’s I)..) C ar Slu;''|e ll( oU, “Tliis vcarly tradmo* y|k.jiigan and ' •velebiation "I all community Bom beyond.” he il( about said American muscle cars and things more fanning !>’’ .Ven bigOrganizer ..fully it wtlH’s'"-1 6 return in 202 gei und better. Patton , understanding ■ W. appreciate every )U later m the We hope anil fool. forward to other 1 ,ind year at our many '-^,l,h^Sdi^ncing. everyone remains remember to practice.’ -mcellu‘‘(yn ,nu> Questions reranling 1 L‘ (j()Unty be directed to ,’.2 177s. Commission office, \ [ "\ I / Elaine Garlock I Libits from long years get deeply embedded. First thing to do in writing this column is to check thc calendar. What is happening for the week? What happened this week just past? Now the calendar is simply blank. In years past, this week would Ik the time to promote lhe annual Spring into the Past event sponsored by thc Tri-River Museum group. 'Lhis year there is no need to secure hosts and hostesses for three hour shifts over two days. No need to gather items for display to promote lhe current them. This year it was to be about transportation, getting from here to there. We will save that idea for another year. We would have found maps from years past. A new one had come to light. Il is a 1937 Ionia County road map published by the highway department. There was no 1-96. Roads in remote spots were indicated by parallel lines on the side, indicating that it was not an improved road. Maybe it did not even have gravel. Likewise, a big change brought about by construction of the freeways was that many roads were continuous and now* they are severed with a turn-around on each side of thc freeway. It may take four miles of driving to reach a neighbor whose house can be seen across the freeway. It also took a firetruck extra miles to reach a house lire on Montcalm Avenue with a truck coming from Lowell. A former gasoline station at the comer of Tupper Lake Street and Fourth Avenue saw its busies days when M-50 was routed through town instead of skirling around lhc southwest side of the village. There was a J EslS 269-945-9554 for Castings Banner ads competitor aernss the street on thc southwest J corner. The one on the southeast corner has ; been a busy place in recent years as an eating ’» establishment.Station Del;. * lhis week, workmen were busy replacing . both an overhead sectioned doors with a solid wall. We await further developments. ‘ The Lions Club that serves Woodland, . hike Odessa and Clarksville were combined > memlK’rs from all three clubs, had to .skip C its usual May chicken barbecue dinner at • the beachfront pavilion. Dare they plan lo, have their annual barbecue in Woodland the Saturday preceding Labor Day? Likewise does , Central United Methodist Church venture lo * t plan for its July dinner also using the services •. of High’s Barbecue service from Indiana? 4 Where does one gel any Xerox copies made? . T he library would be the usual place for this convenience. Library closed. Thc next spot , • might be al lhe bank. With the lobby closed and sen ice only from the drive-through lanes, this would be rather inconvenient, especially if one had legal documents to copy. Neighbors are getting their lawns mowed. It was timely lhal lhe village has posted a nice in , the weekly newspaper that it is against a village ordinance to allow one’s grass lo grow to a height of 8 inches or more. There are penalties if lhe village has lo mow lhc property, with the fee added to property owners tax bill. Marriage ' Jjcenses Cara Reed, Hastings and Douglas Michael Edinger, Hastings Melinda Jane Smalley, Hastings and Kenneth Richard Heaton, Montague □Financial FOCUS Provided by the Barry County offices of Edward Jones .Member SIPC Brandon Wilkins Kevin Beck,AAMS® 400 V/. State St, Suite B Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-4702 307 L Green St.Ste.l Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-2003 How should you put recovery payment to work? Father’s Oav/ ©ar Show \ I „ M^1. Apnl 22- 2019culls between ■ rl(Xl th,, >x..lr llK.tc Dunng that of about 21 percent. I'7<ans.ut' .^(yrepinsii'e,^.,! Wondering about She wf® Dr. Universe. How docs the internet actually work? / know you can type in most anythin' and it just pops up and all that, but how? Eden, age 8. Oregon Dear Eden, If you wrote me a physical letter it would take a few days to reach me. You put the letter in your mailbox. A postal worker picks it up. Then it travels between difterenl |X)st offices on its journey from you to me But w ithin seconds of you sending this question over lhe internet, it was sitting in my inbox. How can this be? b The whole internet works like the mail system - but much faster. That’s wh o I learned from Adam Hahn, an assistan professor ol computer science ■ Washington State University. ‘U You can think ol the internet as one hi., network connecting different a. • e TheyYe all able to “talk” lo ... .e;Myesbecause they follow the same piles” -ill i protocols. Computers all have th ’ *' Cd address, called an ’’IP address'" A °T addresb is a long combination of ‘ ° numbers. ers an<^ The internet carries information ih . electric signals, invisible to y.^n Ugh needs physical things lo carry nlese \ 11 Special devices called router, t|,, s’ and push them to their destinatj( ln UP wires and cables. S’ Us,nK Some computers play a S|X.cial set vers. Servers ate like filing cabini i*U keeping all the infonnation of a p;uli website I hey receive your ivquCst .‘lr information, find the right file, and back to you. ' When yon search lor somethin.. , request gix-s ln>m your IP add,,-., ^ nearest router. Ilial router bounCes H 1 c another router, and so°n* unl*l it reaches the server. l he server sends information back to your IP a^ss l,le samc wa>’’ through thc router net*°rk. But what are tho* d^romc signals made of? All the infof»»al,on on lhc ,nternel travels in the form of broken-up pieces of ^e’ ru "n 1 inalanguagreoflsuni^ "‘"^d.Bverjtlung)’*whclhcr iCs lhis made of packe« h. or cwn a v.idco question, a Google .. ‘•all whh family a 'pa;.|.(.1> |ike You can H>inkp jjress as like a ZIP envelope, and) our f ||;lhn sajd ‘ v or mailing a ,r .d S(_nj a ;n f you wrote w (|)c jnlernci y,)Ur ■> single envelope. ^ofpiK.kcls. 1 message travels a* letter, cutting it into niagine writm. I|)cn> jn (|)cjr ()wn ‘my pieces and ' When the letter mdiv.dual envelop ,o |w arrives, it would k*' H •ogclher. infonnation travels But on the iii'ifl icces. Packets take ■ajter shced n>“ ke at the same place, different routes «*’* olkets arrive, your When all ol llw !|| back together like a ‘“niputer puts ‘1**11, m under a second, puzzle. n>is all t does this work for tn glud the >’ J1K>re exciting to me s-There’s nofh^ ,-urious questions. I^an tending I don’t have to w ail 2 hanks to the ii>‘-*^ ",ng to see then’ Dr. Universe , . u Aik Dr. »•' you <•/»;'' Washinnion 'Uiverse. SettJ , scientist and UniversM v-» *du or visit her writer (Jl L),dlnbl " 'hite, askd/l*1" \------------ 5 ou may have received, or >oon will receive, a payment from the government as part of die S2 trillion Coronas inis Aid, Relief and Economic Se­ curity (CARI-S) Act How can you make the best use of w hat you receive? First, here’s what to expect: If you file taxes as a single per­ son, you’re eligible for a one­ time payment of up to SI ,200, but diis amount decreases if your adjusted gross income on your 2019 tax return (or 2018 return if you haven’t yet filed for 2019) was more dun S75.000, and lhe pay­ ment is eliminated altogether if your income was S99.000 or more. If you’re married and file jointly, you’ll get up to 52,400, reduced for incomes over SI50,000 and eliminated at SI98,000. You’ll also get an extra S5(X) for each dependent child under age 17. So, what will you do widi this payment? 1 lere are a few suggestions: • Use it for current expens­ es. Of course, you may well need the money to help meet your current expenses, par­ ticularly if your employment has been affected by the virus. However, first look for other ways to reduce diese costs. For example, die CARES Act also provides assistance and payment deferral for federal mortgages and federal student loans. Your financial insti­ tution also may be offering assistance if you do not have a federal mortgage or student loan. You might also consider delay ing your taxes until July 15, when they are now due. •Build an emergency fund. In any economic en­ vironment, it’s a good idea to keep three to six months’ worth of living expenses in cash or a cash equivalent - and in these challenging times, this type of emergency fund may be more necessary lhan ever. Plus, by having such a fund al y our disposal, y ou may be able lo avoid dipping into long-term investments to pay for unexpected costs, such as a major car repair. • Invest for other goals or red u ce d eb ts. I f you already have an adequate emergency fund, and you feel dial you’re financially stable, you could use your CARES payment lo invest for retirement, edu­ cation or any other goals y ou may have, and given the re­ cent market downturn, with investment prices down, you may find some compelling op­ portunities. Or, you could use your payment to eliminate, or at least reduce, any high-inter­ est, nun-deductible debt you may be carry ing. • Support charitable or­ ganizations. During this dif­ ficult periixL the demands on many charitable groups are greater than ever - and these groups could use as much support as possible. And now, thanks lo anolhcr provision of lhe CARES Act, when you contribute cash to charitable orgiuiizations, you can receive a lax deduction - known as an alxwe-the line deduction - of up to S300 from your taxable income, even if you don’t itemize. (This rule only applies to charitable contributions made in 2020.) You can find some good uses for your CARES payment so plan ahead and make lhe moves that are best lor your situation. This article was written by L'dw J.'xl Jones for use by your loc al Edward Jones Einancial . tdvisor. Edward SIRC. Water’s Edge Financial LLC Jeffrey A. Keessen, AIF)C (269) 948-9969 525 W. Apple Si. Hastings, MI 49058 www.watersedgefinanclal.coin Taking care of what's impc>rtant to you so that you can Joeih on what matters most to you Sixuiitir* ‘ I.Pl 1 inin;uL .Member I ISRAjStiX. Jones. Member �Pass 8 — Thursday, Apnl JO. 2020 — lhe Hastings Banner «•!<» intelligence. TLT WO LITER «« CHIFOHIL fl look back at the stories and columns on local history In the Hastings Banner ARRIVAL TEAMSHP CHEROKEE, FROM CHASSES, WUII f TURNING BflGK THE PAGES Over n Blillio" and n Quarter of Gold Cost on itn Way to tie Mint. ‘Wit THE rush to the placers. Cjrliir? Ol 3li““ O'1 3iWr‘ acwkment of THE LEGISLATURE. T1 e HTerl, In .f lhe rrotecilnr, b> Cea<reM« IheTerrltarUJ Bill, "’in hr Arr’.fM.t n,.L n Uberok'*- J hnina ™ »butl 1,1 * • hl.h l.ftf.a yranelKoeu th. 1.1 •'«> frrl<ht M r. Irom Fan rmaebco. r.« Umt Id th” Banner's founder had many adventures in early life The following tribute to Dr. CS. Burton, was published in the Dec. 11, 1902, Hastings Herald. Born in western New York State, Burton immigrated to Michigan, returned to New York, moved to California, went back to New York, and finally settled in Hastings, where he remained for nearly 50 years. Dr. Burton was a prominent early resident of the city and co-fbunder of the Banner, which will begin its 165th year in May . His son Clarence will befeatured next week in an account of his contributions to the history of Detroit and southeastern Michigan. Dr. C.S. Burton, age 78 years, after being confined to lhe house two days, died Friday at 1:30 o’clock of inflammation of the bowels, at thc home his son, Edward, on Jefferson Street. Charles Seymour Burton was bom in Waterloo, N.Y., Sept. 13. 1824. his ancestors on his father’s side coming from near Manchester, England. His grandfather William Burton was a Baptist minister and located in the western part of New York. But in the early days in which he lived, not having an established location, he preached in various places as he was called. His father, John Burton, was a lawyer in Waterloo and also was a surveyor, having surveyed both Cayuga and Seneca counties and made a map of Waterloo. John Burton was a soldier in the War of 1812, his grandfather, Samuel Clark being a major general in the same war. Charles Burton, the subject of this sketch, received his primary education in the village of Waterloo and was assisted by his father in thc higher studies al home. Thc family of John Burton was quite large, and it required the entire income of the father to supply their absolute wants, without leaving much for what would then be deemed the luxuries of life. In order to pursue his studies at night, for he was a great student, he was compelled to read by the light furnished from pine knots burning in thc fireplace of their little home. These hours of study were shared in by Charles Burton more than by any other member of thc family. By diligent work, lhe latter managed to accumulate a little money with which he pursued his studies in the city of Albany after he had arrived at the age of 21 years. Leaving Albany, he again went to work to accumulate more money, and with this, he went to New York City to study medicine, devoting his time as much as possible to Bellevue hospital. He did not graduate from any medical institution, but after study ing in his hospital for some time, he started out to practice as an allopath, at that time there being no homeopath school of medicine in the United States. He practiced allopathy but a short time when he concluded that homeopathy was thc proper process to combat disease and started out under that school. Like all new theories, this practice did not take readily with the people, and it was hard work to obtain sufficient practice to maintain himself. But he was always equal to the emergency, and when he failed in one direction to accomplish his objective, he turned in another way toward the same end. In lhe winter of 1847-48. he taught school in Romulus. N.Y., and among his pupils was a Miss Anna Eliza Monroe, the daughter to Ward Barnabas Monroe and his wife. Emmeline (Janes) Monroe. The relationship of student and teacher soon changed to that of lovers, and Miss Monroe became lhe wife of Mr. Burton on lhe 13th day of February. 184X. They still continued to live in Romulus until after the birth of their first son, Charles F.. in November 1849. It was al this lime that the California gold fever sprung up and swept over thc country, and Dr. Burton concluded that he could make a ready fortune by going to California. With this end in view, he went lo New York City and tried to engage passage either across the isthmus lof Panama) or around the Horn [Cape Hom. Chile] to the new Eldorado. He was much disappointed at finding that every available space on all of the boats leaving New York that could carry passengers for this new country , was engaged for more than six months in advance, and that he w ould certainly be compelled to wait at least that length of time before he could make a start, and even then, after waiting so long, he could not be absolutely certain he would obtain passage. In consequents of this state of affairs, he returned to Romulus, and from that place, taking his wife and young son. he came to Michigan. During lhc latter pan of this journey, he was accompanied by two homeopathic physicians who entered the stale with him, and thc three were lhe first homeopathic physicians in Michigan. Burton looked around the city of Detroit, but concluded it was not a good place for him to locate, so he again went westward on the Michigan Central Railroad to Battle Creek, which was as far as this railroad extended at that time. There, he took up his residence in 1850. For some reason, he presently uxik a census of lhe village of Battle Creek and ascertained that it contained 1,028 persons. Mother’s Day MOREL GIFT CREATE A MOREL GARDEN IN BACK TARO Wc pnr. th- wtd i- ! ru) tr> rcrtnctxHji far preparing an otrtdow Marti HMtat Y'jujtul tow the xcd nuir.Ccm th: Marti Habitat, and pick and poundt of frrh Monb hMnJ’ raonbarJ tb. Cber<*~ '-w,-! U 21 4a>, IrnuUAU rraud.to I. CW*. Dr. C.S. Burton was a man of many interests and many addresses. After he moved to Hastings in his early 30s. however, he stayed. Founding the Banner 164 years ago tomorrow, May 1, was one of the many passions he pursued. His practice as physician not occupying his entire time, he formed a partnership with a man named Gant and purchased the type and press and started the Buttle Creek Journal, Mr. Gant. Dr. Burton and his wife setting all the type and doing all the work connected with lhe paper. His medical practice was now quite lucrative, and he managed to lay by a considerable sum of money. He had not been fully cured of the gold fever, and during the winter of 1852-53. he made arrangements with some other people similarly afflicted to start for California in the early spring of 1853. All of his accumulations were invested in material necessary for this journey. Early in 1853. they started westward on a journey, thc difficulties of which cannot be fully expressed to the people of today by comparison with any hardships that we know. It was a journey of six months' duration, through the wilderness and across trackless prairies where the footsteps of the white man had never passed, where only at long intervals was a human being jq be seen and where the wild beasts put tl>e inveler constantly on his guard for the preservation of his lite. When the cavalcade left Battle Creek, lhe prairie schooners were drawn by horses, but it soon became apparent that these animals could not stand the long journeys with the meager fixxl that they could pick up on lhe way. So. when Council Bluffs (Iowa] was reached, thc horses, excepting a few to be used for horseback riding, were traded for cattle, and with these slower animals, the journey was resumed. Dr. Burton was fond of relating the experiences and hardships he and his wife encountered on that tedious trip. They were six months in reaching their final destination in the gold region near Feather River. 65 miles Northeast of Maryville in a little settlement called Whiskey Diggings. There commenced his miner’s life, and on the I Sth of November, 1853. their second son, Clarence M., was bom. While he was quite successful in his mining operations. Burton did not make the fortune anticipated, and in the year 1854. he went with his family to San Francisco and engaged passage lo New York Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads City across the isthmus, taking lhe steamer Yankee Blade, which belonged to the Vanderbilt line, as far as the isthmus. 1 hey set out on this vessel in October and had proceeded southward along the coast only about 2(X) miles when lhe vessel, which had on Ixi.ird a goodly supply of gold, was taken in charge by a gang of ruffians who were called stowaway pirates. These men attempted to run the vessel ashore for the purpose of plundering it. but unfortunately ran the vessel upon a rock that split it asunder, and she soon went down.* Many of lhe passengers were drowned, but the latter portion succeeded in reaching the mainland, some two miles distant where they lived upon such food as was washed up from lhe vessel and such as they could obtain from the salt water, for about 10 days when they were taken off, part of them south to the Isthmus and the remainder back lo San Francisco. Dr. Burton and his family were all saved and all returned to San Francisco. They went back to their old mining camp and remained one year until lhe, following October when they undertook the same trip they had set out upon before. l his lime, after the usual delays of travel in that early age, they reached New York City safely. From there, they went to Seneca Falls, N.Y.. where Mrs. Burton’s parents were residing. Leaving Mrs. Burton there, her husband proceeded to the state of Michigan and settled in Hastings in 1855. He had been in Hastings but a short lime when his wife and children came to make their home with him, which was from this lime on their future home and where were born three more children. William, Ellen and Edward. Dr. Burton took an active part in the campaign of John C. Fremont, the first republican candidate for lhe presidency, and stumped the county for him. [Fremont was defeated by James Buchanan in lhe 1856 election] ... After thc defeat of Fremont and for the purpose of commencing then the work of the new presidential campaign, which resulted four years later in the election of Lincoln. Dr. Burton and some others purchased type presses and paper and started the Hastings Banner [under the name C.S. Burton & Co.). The doctor was an incessant worker, and in addition lo his political work, he carried on the work of the newspaper, his work as a phy sician, which was constantly growing, and cleared and cultivated the farm he had purchased when he first visited the village and where he resided so many years. [The 1870 Advertisements and reports like this one from the June 6, 1850, New York Herald announcing that a single ship had just returned with $1 million in gold dust, enticed people everywhere. Dr. C.S. Burton was twice bitten by the gold bug and had some memorable adventures while following his quest, (chroniclingamgerica.loc.gov image) U.S. Census lists his occupation as physician and druggist.) His medical practice grew so large that he was obliged to give up his paper, so he sold it out ... His accumulations brought him other property, both real and personal, the attending to which occupied all his lime. During thc War of the Rebellion, he was one of the foremost in the accumulating of sufficient funds to fill thc quota of the township of Hastings, and it is well known that Hastings was one of the few places in which there was no draft. Those who lived in Hastings during these exciting times will remember the congregation that assembled every day in Dr. Burton’s store to hear him read lo the crowd the latest news from the battleground and from thc capital. He carried his love for hard work through life and devoted as many hours to hard labor thc last year as he did when he was young. His idea of thrift was carried to an extreme, but those who would impute this to him as a wrong would not do so if they could pass through all the walks of life that he passed through and see the absolute need of economy in order to have the necessaries of life and lhe positive good that comes from affluence. He was an enthusiastic advocate of popular education and the maintenance of schools. His own children were pul to school at an early age and kept there until they had passed through the highest branches thc state afforded. He constantly used his efforts to persuade young men and women to obtain an education in order to better their situation in life and maintained that money thus spent was a better investment than any other. As indicated above, there were five children bom to Mr. and Mrs. Burton, one of whom, William Burton, born Sept. I9, 1858, died March 4, 1864. The others, Charles F.. Clarence M., Edward A. Burton, and Ellen B. Judson are still living. His wife. Anne E. Burton, died May 23, 1899. Funeral services were held Sunday at 2:30 o’clock, conducted by Rev. J.A. Brown, late rector of Emmanuel church. Interment in Riverside. Relatives from outside thc city who attended the funeral were Mr. and Mrs. Char. Burton and Clarence M. Burton of Detroit, and Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Judson of Lansing. Compiled by Kathy Maurer, copy editor Sources: Hastings Herald. Chronicling Amcrica.loc.gov. familysearch.org. findagrave .com. harrysnigenwehjorg. SJ2.95 ♦ M.65 S/H - TUT-XN-TJOl NO MORE GUTTER CLEANING, GOURMET MUSHROOMS OR YOUR MONEY BACK- RO BOX 515 CN9' GRATON, CA 95444 GUARANTEED! www.gmushrooms.org Sp>»a Guinaiftd ij Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 K. A. MUELLER ACCOUNTING FREE ESTIMATES! Promo Number: 285 221 South Jefferson Street Hastings, Michigan (269)945-3547 www.kamuelleraccounting.com open Monday-Satur^ay 10a.m.~3 p-in- MICHAEL KINNEY PLUMBING Licensed Master Plumber Licensed Journeyman Plumber New construciion, remodel, repair. < BRADFORD WHITE WAI F.R HEA1F.RS I iccrtsc Same Day Installation Office (269) 948-224X Mobile (269) Will #8| lO.VZfi 945-9673 Tor OUESTKXS: AHXUk . w ®4?-9673 'f Sporting Goods Business Services Por Sale For Sale: 8 hr Mercury 4 stroke not even broke tn vet. With stand $1800 firm. Call 269-908­ 8918 after 4pm. BELLS CONSFRUCTION18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements Dis­ count for Seniors & Veteran*.. 269-320-3890. CARRON SPORT AIR Hock­ ey lable. $300.00 OBO. Phone Card of Thanks 2o9-908-1654. PUBLISH ER’S NOTICE: i., tMs AH rt.it THE FAMILIES OF Airis Schreiner w oiikl like to thank everyone for their compassion during this dif­ ficult time. Thank you to thc hirst Responders and Medi­ cal Statt for their efforts. Io Girrbach Funeral Home for their guidance. Thanks lo everyone for their kind wotds and gestures. Please know it helps give us strength to see her broth­ ers through these troubled times BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call tor pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley I (269)81^-7793. A . ..nt i r,u| R-.-a ,V( X* V • . .. ’■ : *' ' h'luixro'i rr ; * «.!• C, '. I •' . ■ ; . . | .- .e v. IJun j ' • J . . , _ X'X',,r' MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-894-7506. Tor Sale KASSON 10FT OAK Pool Table, excellent condition. $1,000.1)0 or QBO. 269-908lo54 E/lV: : the ■ ,n ' u-rsr �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. Apr*.’ 30, 2020 — Page 9 Council approves street work» which will begin Monday SBVtuwh SiniuiahKawhelc Kaechelc u Contrihut^ Writer Although mans activities ' been canceled due to COVIDhavc draction projects lor the Citv of ni “"l continue. * 01 "’W will ingouLTw'?”* mi" Street between Bt^dwav S,“'C Avenue March 9. A-l AsoLh "it M,ch,*an to teethr,n,C^ "" Son^hep^™1'’^^-*" During its meeting Monday night, the citv council approved the $68219 quote from A-l Asphalt to extend thc project to include South <*■* - City Manager Jerry Czarnecki told council mimlx'rs that funding lor the project will be irom money earmarked for 2019-20 road constniction projects. "So, the plan is to take funds that are already set aside for road projects, use it on this, and then the remainder will be used for the projects that are currently out for bid,” he said. ,,1C5ms!TUClion on South Jefferson Street will begin Monday. May 4, Czarnecki said after lhe meeting. "We are asking residents to not park on the Treasury issues guidance about new tax deadlines Estimated tax payments now due July, 15 The Michigan Department of Treasury has requesting additional time to file should esti­ issued additional taxpayer guidance about mate their tax liability and pay any taxes new stale income tax return filing and pay­ owed by July 15 to avoid additional interest ment deadlines, income tax extensions and and penalties. estimated tax payments. A calcndar-ycar corporate taxpayer request­ "We arc continuously evaluating how we ing an eight-month extension to file a state can assist residents and businesses during the corporate income tax return must submit that COVID-19 pandemic,” Slate Treasurer request and pay the appropriate amount of tax Rachael Eubanks said. "Changing some of the by July 31. The extended annual return stale’s filing and payment deadlines can help remains due Dec. 31. With the April 15 estimated tax payment individuals and businesses figure out their next steps. Individuals who arc owed a tax deadline previously extended until July 15, refund should not wait to file their income tax the state treasury department also has fol­ lowed lhe Internal Revenue Service and is returns.” Under Executive Order 2020-26 signed by moving lhe second quarter June 15 estimated Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, all April suite income tax deadline lo July 15. For most individual tax filing deadlines in Michigan have been and business taxpayers, this means both the pushed back to July as a part of continued first and second quarter estimated tax pay­ efforts to help Michiganders during the ments arc now due July 15. When submitting tax payments, businesses COVID-19 pandemic. Individual income tax returns and pay­ should include their Federal Employee ments due April 15 are now due before mid­ Identification Number. Individuals should night July 15. Businesses that file corporate write lhe last four digits of their Social income tax annual returns by April 30 havc Security number on the memo line of lhe check or electronic payment to ensure the until July 31 to file and pay. All penalties and interest will be waived payment can be matched to lhe account. Payment vouchers should be included with until the new deadlines in July. Businesses lhat pay corporate income taxes tax payments, when available. Taxpayers who arc owed a refund are arc typically larger and known as C corpora­ tions. S corporations and limited liability encouraged to file their state income tax corporations typically pay taxes through the returns so they can receive their refunds. More information about e-ftling is available at state’s individual income tax. Individual taxpayers who need additional michigan .gov/mifastfile. More about Michigan’s taxes can be found time to file beyond lhe July 15 deadline may request an extension lo Oct. 15. Taxpayers al michigan.gov/taxes. 7/9/1956 TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Dennis De!mer Dyer, died 2/10/2020. Creditors of thc decedent are notified that all claims against me estate win be forever bamsd unless presented to Jan Kabboord. personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W Court Street. K302. Hastings, Ml 49058 and the persona! representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 4/28/2020 Brett A. Cummings P75917 938 Treasure Island Drive Mattawan, Ml 49071 269-366-6984 Jan Kabboord 14770 Kane Road Plainwell, Ml 49080 269-271-1293 140565 NOTICE TO CREDITORS The Lewis A. Huisman and Lok e u • Revocable Trust. E Hu,sman Please take notice that Lewis Arthur Rhi born January 18, 1924, d10d on April 4 His last address was 11350 Wildwood’ Orangeville Twp., Michigan 49344. oaa‘ STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO creditors Decedent's Estate Ci editors of the decedent or the Trust are n t that all claims against the decedont and T ** will bo forever barred unless presented to c, 1 Kw«> Sue Kuscholl). Date of birth. 06/tu/>» TO ALL CREDITORS: redent Karen NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, r. Suo Frey, died 01/24/2020 that all CteXs 0, ,r.e decedent are not.hedfthaiied Rainis against the estate w«l personal bri-«.s presented to Kenneth ‘ 'rtat7794 ]Ws«ntabve. or to bothlhe the personal S.M..3ZHwy.,Hast,ngs.Mllhe pe^ * r^Pmsentative within 4 months a Pulsation of this notice. 4/22/2Q2Q Robtjti E McCarthy P28450 11° Lake Lansing Rd. Ste. ‘ cam Landng, Ml 48823 7) 337-2000 ,*v*th R. Frey S. M-37 Hwy 4905g 945.3743 NOTICE TO CREDITORS TRUST ESTATE TO ALL CREDITORS: The Settlor, Patricia J. Bassett (date of birth) 6-19-1933), who lived at 10787 Tasker Rd., Bellevue, Michigan, died April 13,2020. There Is no personal representative of the settlor's estate to whom Letters of Administration have been issued. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the Patricia Joanne Bassett Revocable Living Trust dated August 9, 2012 as amended, will be forever banned unless presented to Jeanette Graham, Successor Trustee within four months after the date of publication of thinotice. Notice is further given that the Trust will thereafter be assigned and distributed to the Persons entitled to it. Date: 4-23-2020 Jeanette Graham 10601 Tasker Rd. Bellevue, Ml 49021 269-763-0154 140484 Huisman at the address below, within four after the date of publication of this naticoTK notice is given pursuant to the Michipan '9*n Estates and Protected Individuals Code. Stove Huisman Co-Trustee 5079 Hemlock Point Road Republic, Ml 49879 Date: April 30,2020 Prepared by: Neil L. Kimball, EsqMika Meyers PLC 900 Monroe Avenue NW Grand Rapids, Ml 49503 616-632-8000 14048>j 140380 MM instead of April 21. So. JI won won ’t have haveto nir as inMead to run a write-in. hopefully, but it looks like I’ll be able to get the signatures." - Received a letter regarding updates on the YMCA. Council member Smith, who is on the board of directors lor thc YMCA, read the letter to the council. "The YMCA has clearly not been able to do its traditional recreational activities due to our community situation, instead they have focused their efforts, full-time staff, and limit­ ed volunteers on their meal support program, he said. Smith informed the council that the YMCA has been working with the Hastings and Delton Kellogg school districts to deliver 4JMX) meals each week to families in 17 dif­ ferent locations. Thc YMCA also has food bags lhat contain dinners and snacks for 800 qualifying children. This program is being maintained through donations and grant money. The letter also stated that the YMCA in mid-May will be making decisions regard­ ing summer camp and other summer activi­ ties. The next city council meeting is scheduled for May 11, with a budget workshop at 6. followed by the regular meeting at 7 p.m. It is planned to be a virtual meeting, due to the extension of the governor’s stay-in order to May 15. SPECIAL ELECTION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A SPECIAL ELECTION WILL BE HELD IN THE: COUNTY OF BARRY STATE OF MICHIGAN TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2020 CALEDONIA COMMUNITY SCHOOLS KALAMAZOO REGIONAL EDUCATIONAL SERVICE AGENCY (KRESA) In Accordance with Executive Orders issued by the Governor, the election on May 5, 2020, will be conducted with special voting and voter registration procedures. Voting in this election will be primarily by mail, with limited in-porson voting at one location on Election Day. *** On Election Day, voters may apply for, receive, and submit absent voter ballots in person from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations: THE PLACES HOLDING THE ELECTION IN SAID MUNICIPALITIES ARE INDICATED BELOW: BARRY TOWNSHIP JOHNSTOWN TOWNSHIP PRAIRIEVILLE TWP. THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP Precinct Precinct Precinct Precinct Precinct TO VOTE ON THE FOLLOWING PROPOSITIONS LISTED BELOW: i. CALEDONIA COMMUNITY SCHOOLS GENERAL OBLIGATION UNLIMITED TAX BOND PROPOSAL FOR BUILDING AND SITE PURPOSES IN THE AMOUNT OF NOT TO EXCEED $88,090,000 Full text of the ballot propositions may be obtained at the administrative offices of Caledonia Community Schools, 9753 Duncan Lake Avenue SE, Caledonia. Michigan 49316-9411, telephone: (616) 891-8185- tuc 155 East Orchard Street, Delton, Ml 49046 13641 S. M-37, Battle Creek, Ml 49017 1015 S. Norris Road., Delton, Ml 49046 128 High Street, Middleville, Ml 49333 200 E. Main Street, Middleville, MI 49333 1 1 1 1 2 jj CALEDONIA COMMUNITY SCHOOLS OPERATING MILLAGE RENEWAL PROPOSAL exempting PRINCIPAL RESIDENCE and other property exempted by law ' 19.4399 MILLS FOR 5 YEARS LEGALNOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate Estate of Dennis Delmar Dyer. Date of birth: commission area. whirh k nut on M-43 and commission area, which is out on M-43 and M 37," Czarnecki said. lhc second reading will be conducted in iwo weeks at the next city council meeting. - Approved the appointment of Debra Rashid as lhe new city assessor. "We received a letter from Dan Kirwin, who has been our assessor since October of 2018. We are very fortunate lhat he was will­ ing to conic in as a contracted assessor for us, but with his travel between here and Big Rapids, he has decided he no longer wants to keep that contract." Czarnecki said. Rashid holds all (he required certifications and, being from Kent County, is closer to Hastings. Since no one on the city staff is certified, the city had to contract out a new assessor. She is going to come in and fill thc role exactly thc same as what Dan Kirwin did ...” Czarnecki said. “She does a wonderful job and comes with glowing recommendations Irom other municipalities lhat she’s worked with. Rashid will begin working as they city assessor in May. . Received a comment from board mem­ ber Al Jan is regarding his run for re-election. 1 would likc to publicly thank John Resseguie, he said. "He notified me that thc judge changed the election law and I can get on the ballot because I can do electronic sig­ natures, and they extended lhe date to May 8 ........... ... ____ . «... ; _ .-. .1*’ scheduling of a ’Die council‘'’’^forc the next planned street starting Monday morning, and the proj­ ect should be completed by Wednesday, May budget worksh0!^ p.m. 6 - assuming there are no weather issues," he meeting May 1 ‘ 0fp>l,oP an opportunity said. "Residents will have access to their " I he budget proposed budget for lhe driveways for a majority of the lime lhe proj­ for staff to "jj. Staff will share with ect is in progress.” fiscal year 20- p^ ^at the budget was Construction on State Street from council the - wKre there arc new items Broadway to Michigan Avenue also will built on and :lNn ^vk’0'' budgcls.” Czarnecki . .qt a]So giV(js a chancc begin Monday, he said, and it is expected to or changes front; be completed by Friday, May 8. Beginning said after the m<- t specific questions.’ Monday, residents, business owners and cus­ for the council to additional discussion. tomers are asked not to park on State Street. If the budgv . set another workshop J8 "The sidewalks will be open during the hesaid.thceounU construction, but there will be no vehicle traf­ ns a special will be set for the May fic or parking on State Street during this A public he* pUb|lv comment on the time,” he said. "Thc City realizes that with 25 meeting 1° • r/arnecki said, some businesses being open and/or planning proposed budget* to reopen soon, this project will cause a short­ the council: term inconvenience. However, completing In other ‘ ^nation of an expirathis essential project now should prove advan­ - Approve pjphibilion of marijuana cj(y# slalC(j m jls tageous to businesses when compared to a tion date on time when restrictions are relaxed even establishments 1 prohibits the formation or categories of marijuamore. With the availability of materials, this is ordinances, the' e j the earliest date that wc could schedule this operation of any wjthin its boundaries, na cstablishmen reading of an amendwork." Council member Don Bowers expressed -Conducte ordinanccofthcHastingsment to the zoning ng Commission. l he gratitude during council comment. res(rictions on "Well I’m very’ happy, as you can imagine, Rutland Joint amen(jinent ;u|ds that you’re taking care of Jefferson (Street]," he ordinance ongin' / said "You know you’ve finished part of it now, exotic animals, 31 restrictions for’ lb ’ I’m sure going to be happy I can use it all." PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE THAT THE BONDS OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT, IF AP­ PROVED BY A MAJORITY VOTE OF THE ELEC­ TORS AT THIS ELECTION, WILL BE GENERAL OBLIGATION UNLIMITED TAX BONDS PAYABLE FROM GENERAL AD VALOREM TAXES. KALAMAZOO REGIONAL EDUCATIONAL SER­ VICE AGENCY REGIONAL ENHANCEMENT MILLAGE RENEW­ AL PROPOSAL 1.5 MILLS FOR 3 YEARS Full text of the ballot proposal may be ob­ tained at the administrative offices of Kalamazoo Regional Education Service Agency, 1819 East Mil­ ham Avenue, Portage, Michigan 49002-3035, tele­ phone: (269) 250-9202. Many public offices are closed or have limited access at this time. Before visiting an office, you should contact the office to see if it is open. Sample ballots may be viewed at www.mi.qov/vote,_____ _ POLLS OF SAID ELECTION WILL BE OPEN AT 7 O’CLOCK A.M. AND WILL REMAIN OPEN UNTIL 8 O’CLOCK P.M. ON THE DAY OF ELECTION. Absents ballots are available for all elections; registered voters may contact the local clerk to obtain an ap­ plication for an absent voter ballot, or use the application and pre-paid postage return envelope each voter received by mail from the Michigan Secretary of State. To comply tbe Help America Vote Act (HAVA), voting instructions will be available in audio format and in Braille. Arrangements for obtaining the instructions in these alternative formats can be made by contacting the townsb'P or city clerk listed below in advance of the election. The in-person location will have a voter assist terminal (VAT) available for voters with disabilities. Absent voter ballots must be mailed to voters no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday May 1 2020. Registered voters r”3/ contact their local Clerk to obtain an application for an absent voter ballot. For any other ques­ tions relaUn9 to the election process, please contact your local Clerk: BARRY T0WNSHP JOHNSTOWN TOWNSHIP PRAIRIEVLLE1WP THORNApPLE TOWNSHIP __ Deb Knight Sheri Babcock Rod Goebel Cindy Willshire coM™?710 “3-2726 795-7202 ext. 203 PAMELA A. PALMER, COUNTY CLERK Call any time to place your Hastings Banner classified ad 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 �Pagn 10 -- Thursday. Apnl 30. 2020 — The Hastings Banner Tribes losing police, health budgets as COVID-19 closes casinos Bridge Magazine The Ojibwa Casino in lire northwestern Upper Peninsula town of Bnrnga is just one ol many thousands of Michigan businesses shut­ tered due to thc coronavirus pandemic. But at most businesses, lost revenue doesn l imme­ diately demolish budgets for the local health department, police force and social services system. . The casino and resort funds as much as percent of lhe Keweenaw Bay Indian Community’s federal budget, said Chris Swartz, the tribe’s president. Swartz said the Ojibwa closure is eating up to $2 millioni a month in revenue that thc 3,600-mcmbcr tn would otherwise spend on children’s health, police patrols, senior services, natural resourc­ es management and other prognuns. "Wc had to lay off half of our government. Swartz said. “Unless they’re in grant-funded positions, they’re pretty much off until l c casino is back up and running. As a result, he said, fewer people are receiving medical care through the tribal clin­ ic. Daily lunches for tribal elders have been canceled. Fewer social workers are available to keep tabs on child welfare. The cuts could linger well after the casino reopens, as the tribe is forced to slash government services to bring budgets back into balance. As Michigan’s coronavirus shutdown dries up a key revenue stream for Michigan’s 12 federally-recognized Native American tribes, government leaders face a similar conun­ drum: Open casinos sooner lo slop the finan­ cial bleed and risk spreading infection on the gaming floor, or slay closed and decide which government programs to sacrifice? Why tribes do gaming Unlike state and local governments, Native American tribes generally lack thc ability to levy taxes lhat fund key government services, which means revenue must come from else­ where. The US. government provides a portion of funding for some tribal government programs as part of a treaty obligation with Native American tribes. In exchange for their lands, the United States agreed lo provide tribes with services such as health care, law enforcement and education. But lhat funding has never been enough and remains inadequate, accord­ ing to a 2018 report by the U5. Commission on Civil Rights. So in the 1970s, some tribes began to make up the difference by opening bingo halls and funneling gambling revenue into government programs. Several states, including Michigan, sued in an attempt to shut down tribal gaming businesses. The disputes culminated in a 1988 US. Supreme Court decision that affirmed Native American tribes have the right lo establish gaming operations on their land. Today, all of Michigan’s 12 federally-recog­ nized tribes own casinos lhat help fund their government. Some share a portion of revenue directly with their citizens in much lhe same way lhat Alaskans receive oil royalties. As sovereign nations, tribes are not required to disclose details of their budgets to the non-tribal public. Of lhe five tribal leaders who spoke to Bridge for this story, all said casino revenue is a significant portion of their government budgets but none offered specific dollar figures. Frank Etlawageshik, executive director of lhe United Tribes of Michigan, which represents Michigan’s federally recog­ nized tribes, estimated that on average, gam­ ing contributions comprise about half of gov­ ernment budgets for Michigan tribes. "The casinos provide the revenue that’s making up for woefully inadequate funding from lhe federal government,” Ettawageshik said. But tribes’ reliance on gaming revenue can also leave government programs more vulner­ able to economic downturns than, say, munic­ ipal budgets funded by property taxes. "In a period of crisis like we’re in right now, state and city government revenue is declining too, but lhe bottom hasn’t fallen out," said Miriam Jorgensen, research director for the Harvard Project on American Indian Economic Development and the University of Arizona Native Nations Institute. "Because tribes don’t have a tax base, the bottom falls out immediately when casinos can’t operate." Frank Cloutier, tribal spokesman and for­ mer chief of lhe Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe in central Michigan, said gaming reve­ nue accounts for three-quarters of thc tribe’s budget. With the tribe’s Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort near Mount Pleasant entering its seventh week dosed, Cloutier said some gov­ ernment programs could be on thc chopping block as the tribe looks to balance its budget with fewer casino receipts. "Most people hear about tribal gaming and they think slot machines and blackjack tables,” Cloutier said. "I’m talking about edu­ cation. I’m talking about lunch programs for our youth. I’m talking about elder care, I’m talking about housing infrastructure, tribal court, fire and police.” TYibal casinos help local communities, too Tribal governments and lhe citizens they serve aren't the only ones reeling from the casino closures. Under legal agreements with the state of Michigan, casino-owning tribes share 2 per­ cent of their gaming revenue with local non-tribal governments near their casinos. In 2018, those agreements funneled $30.1 mil­ lion into schools, fire and rescue services and other local government institutions in com­ munities near casinos. The money is a drop in lhe bucket for larg­ er communities lhat receive tribal resenue The financial strain caused by casino closures., . underscores a longstanding recognition among tribal leaders and economic development expert5 the need to diversify tribal government income streams. ...The Southwest Michigan-based Nottav/aseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi has been particularly successful at developing new income streams. sharing dollars, such as Battle Creek and Mount Pleasant. But five of Michigan’s 12 tribes are located in isolated, economically limited regions of thc Upper Peninsula, where fewer people and lower per-capita income translates into smaller local government bud­ gets. In these communities, casino revenue can be crucial to local budgets. Money from the Bay Mills Indian Community’s resort and casinos accounts for nearly half of lhe budget of Bay Mills Township in the eastern Upper Peninsula, said Township Supervisor Roger Graham. It pays for the two-person grounds crew that mows the cemetery’ and completes odd jobs during the summer. Il funds lhe volunteer fire depart­ ment. It fixes roads and buys lawn mowers and other equipment. Graham said he isn’t expecting a check next quarter. He might not be able to hire a grounds crew this year. That’s two more jobs lost in an area where, even before the corona­ virus shutdow n, there w eren’t a wealth of job opportunities. Prc-pandemic unemployment was already near 7 percent. "It’s going to havc a huge impact,” Graham said. "I don’t know what we’re going lo do. We're just try ing to scale back anywhere wc can.” Tribes also are among lhe Upper Peninsula's biggest employers, said Tom Durkee, busi­ ness development manager for the Michigan Economic Development Corp. In Baraga County, home of the Ojibwa Casino, thc tribe is the largest employer by farwith more than 500 workers, with the Michigan Department of Corrections a distant second, according to 2014 figures from the Upper Peninsula Economic Development Alliance. In Gogebic County, only the area hospital system employs more people than lhe Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians. Same goes for Chippewa County’s Bay Mills Indian Community and Menominee County’s Hannahvillc Indian Community. That does not include the satellite jobs that exist only because of the casino: The gas sta­ tions and restaurants that cater to casino visi­ tors. Thc food distributors that supply casino buffets. The construction firms that maintain casino facilities. Looking to reopen Anxiety over the financial impact of a pro­ longed casino closure has Michigan tribal leaders counting the days until they can reopen. As sovereign land, tribal territory is not subject to Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s stay-home order and legally could ignore it. So far, Michigan tribes havc fol­ lowed Whitmer’s decision to close nonessen­ tial businesses including casinos. Whitmer has just extended lhe Michigan government’s slay-home order until May 15. Tribal leaders across Michigan said they are tracking daily infection rales and pondering lhe right time to reopen casinos. At lhe Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe near Mount Pleasant, Cloutier said lhe open­ ing date may come sooner than Whitmer would prefer. "I hope and pray she is completely aware of the negative impact” on tribal communities, Cloutier said. For now, the casino is closed until further notice. The elected tribal council will be reviewing the closure this week. Cloutier said, and "there could possibly be a point where we have no other alternative.” One w»ay to help tribes stay closed, said Newland of the Bay Mills Indian Community, is to speed up the rulemaking process for Michigan’s newly-legalized online gaming law. Michigan lawmakers in December legal­ ized online gaming in thc stale. Although tribes don’t need state permission to own casinos on their land, online gaming is an exception because it enables customers to patronize a casino without stepping fool on tribal land. /Xs a result, tribes along with nonIribal Detroit casino owners are awaiting stale rulemaking that will enable them to get an Internet gambling license. The state aims to have online gaming up and running by early 2021. Newland said leaders of the Bay Mills Indian Community and other tribes havc urged Whitmer and lhe Michigan Gaming Control Board to expedite rulemaking so casi­ nos can maintain some semblance of business while gaming floors sit empty. The move would benefit tribal government budgets as well as Detroit city government, which col­ lects gaming taxes from Detroit’s casinos. A spokeswoman for the governor’s office said Whitmer is reviewing lhe requests. In thc meantime, Newland and his fellow Bay Mills tribal councilors are discussing what it would look like lo ease back into busi­ ness while maintaining social distancing. "You’ll see us and a lol of casinos start to bring things back slowly," he said. "Maybe slot machines, but not table games. Maybe no hotels at first. Buffet foodservice is going to be a flung of the past.” But, Newland noted. e«ch tweak to the business model impacts cas,nos 1x5110111 line. When casinos^ finally reopen. revenue will likely be far lower and the financial pain for tribal governments wdl continue. Awaiting federal stimuli . While they do lhe math on a potential reopening date, Michigan tribes are tracking thc federal economic stiml,lus effort m hopes of receiving some relief, , .. Each of the country’s W federally-recog­ nized tribes is eligible to apply ^or a Jul . $8 billion in federal funding earmarked for tribes through lhe $2 trillion Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic .Security Act, or CARES Act. But more than a month since the act passed, the tribes’ money remains in govern­ ment coffers and mired in legal dispute. It’s unclear how much Michigan tribes can expect to receive from thc pot. or when. Aaron Payment, chairperson l°r Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, said the tribe expects a budge* gaP $^0 million if the closure continues through June. If federal money was available to offset the loss. Payment said, “it’d be a lot easier for me to be able to argue to my council that, we should remain closed to keep people safe.” Attempts to gel relief through other CARES Act programs have so far been unfruitful. The massive funding package created a Paycheck Protection Program that so far has included $659 billion in forgivable loans to help busi­ nesses pay employees and other expenses during the COVID-19 shutdown. Some tribes applied for loans, but the Small Business Administration, which runs die loan program, has long maintained a policy against lending to businesses that generate more than more than a third of their revenue from gambling. The 210,000-square-foot gaming floor sits empty at Soaring g outside Mount Pleasant. Michigan tribal governments are partly funoe enue, but with casinos closed and hemorrhaging money, budge out of balance. (Courtesy photo by Natalie Shattuck) Newland said his tribe has tried for weeks to get through to the SB A, but has been unable to get agency representatives to answer the phone. Branching out from casinos Thc financial strain caused by casino clo­ sures underscores a longstanding recognition among tribal leaders and economic develop­ ment experts of the need to diversify tribal government income streams. “Like so many things, if all your eggs are in one basket, then if something should happen to that area it kind of kills your ability to do anything else,” said Durkee of thc Michigan Economic Development Corp. Durkee runs a program that helps tribes launch new business ventures outside lhe gaming industry. Il’s easier for some than others. Tribes in more populous areas tend to generate more revenue from their casinos, which gives them deeper pockets to invest in new ventures. And those more populous areas tend to have more diverse economics to begin with, creating more opportunities for tribes to branch out into new businesses. The Southwest Michigan­ based Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi has been particularly successful at developing new income streams through its Wasdyabek Development Co. In addition to thc successful Firekeepers Casino and Hotel outside Battle Creek, the tribe has acquired y casino rev^own several businesses and commercial propcrtic . Earlier this year, it teamed up with the Shelbyville-based Gun Lake Inbe to'pur­ chase thc McKay Tower, a mixed-use build­ ing in downtown Grand Rapids. “You never know what could happen with gaming in the stale of Michigan, so we ve been proactive about diversifying our portfo­ lio.” said Tribal Chairperson Jamie Stuck. The tribe’s business success has afforded it the financial resources to "plan for unforeseen circumstances,” Stuck said. As a result. Stuck said he doesn’t anticipate any loss of govern­ ment services as a result of the shutdown. In Keweenaw Bay? Not so much. Tribal leaders hope to get into the recre­ ational marijuana business, but for now’, gam­ ing is the tribe’s only major revenue-genera­ tor. Swartz said the tribe still owes money on a second casino it opened in Marquette four months ago. Now, he is worried about paying down the debt with no revenue coming in. He tries to look on the bright side: The tribe’s home of Baraga County is one of only five Michigan counties with no confirmed cases of COVID-19 — all of them in the U.P. Maybe the casino closures had something to do with lhat. "It’s bad liming.” Swartz said. "But it is what it is, you know? Il could be worse. We could have a 10 percent death rate, too.” Governor announces ‘Gl Bill’ initiative to help frontline workers Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced a series of initiatives lo help Michigan workers and their families during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, including the "Futures for Frontliners” program to provide a tui­ tion-free pathway to college or a technical certificate to essential workers who don’t have a college degree. This includes workers like those staff­ ing hospitals and nursing homes, stocking shelves at grocery stores, providing child care to critical infrastructure workers, manu­ facturing Personal Protective Equipment, pro­ tecting public safety, picking up trash, or deliv­ ering supplies. ’The Fptures for Fronllincrs program is our way of saying ’thank you’ to those who have risked their lives on lhe front lines of this cri­ sis,” Whitmer said. “This program will ensure tuition-free college, opportunities and give these dedicated Michiganders an opportunity to cam a technical certificate, associate degree or even a bachelor’s degree. “I want to assure all of our workers we will never forget those of you who stepped up and sacrificed their own health during this crisis. You’re the reason we’re going to get through this.” The "Futures for Frontliners” program is the first of its kind in the country, and was inspired by the federal government’s support of soldiers returning from World War II by providing educational opportunities. Frontline workers who lake advantage of this program will help reach a goal to increase the number of working-age adults with a tech­ nical certificate or college degree from 45 percent to 60 percent by 2030. Whitmer said she looks forward to working on enacting her proposal with the bipartisan legislative coalition that last month helped pass Reconnect, the program lo offer adults over 25 without college degrees tuition-free access to community college. Whitmer also announced that she is expand­ ing the state’s Workshare Program to allow employers to reduce employee hours to receive weekly unemployment insurance benefits as well as the additional $600 Pandemic Unemployment Assistance weekly benefit. Both benefits will be funded through federal dollars. Through July, the program can act as supplemental pay for critical infrastruc­ ture workers by allowing them to collect the extra $600 per week. TREATMENT, continued from page 2 effectiveness of convalescent plasma, Kalkanis noted. Indeed, it was just about a month ago that the U 5. Food and Drug Admi nistraiion announced efforts to collect conva­ lescent plasma to help fight this novel strain of the coronavirus. Plasma testing begins around The country Thc Henry Ford cases arc among thousands across lhe country, said Dr- Nigel Paneth, a Michigan State University professor who’s helping lead efforts in the National COVID19 Convalescent Plasma Project. Paneth also spearheaded the group’s web­ site, which will help distribute information on the Henry Ford case,siothers to health care providers and plasma’donors across lhe coun­ try. >; The local efforts suPplcfnent a ,ar?e'scale study, led by the Mayo Clinic, under which hundreds of people have received treatments, Paneth said. Ideally resc;irc^crs Wl a^ c to compare the results of lhc P?UcntS wh° received convalescent plasn* against patients in the same hospitals that did not receive plas­ ma to determine whether plasma pIayc<1 a rolc in recovery. A half-dozen additio"*1 clinical trials are underway across the country mb* the use of "mvalesUZ™ Z COVID-19 he said. For now, doc10rs at least are filing anecdot­ al evidence of Iona’s through the website for its “rapid evaluaiio"P™Sram. a Simple look at S° f“' , been no signlfi^^gts of compltcahons. Paneth said. . . . •“’y.-'y impressions i<x* PO^e. but 8URe^.P°SiliVe"be^c » better under­ Researchers hone 1° ha • i Mtunhiig within months-y 'go Io 90 per- cen " * '’’ve » c months, I’d be cent answer jn , of ihr^ " ’ disappointed.” ‘If I’m gone, whai will they go through?’ During a press call Tuesday, Scott Kaatz and his wife, Meg, recalled how, as his condi­ tion worsened, a Skype call was arranged with his family. Meg Kaatz, who has an underlying medical condition, had traveled to Texas in March to be with her son as the coronavirus struck Detroit. Scott grew ill and, oh April 4, he was admitted to his own hospital as a patient. His condition worsened. By mid-April, lhe news was grim: Doctors wanted to put him on a ventilator. Options were running out. He wasn’t get­ ting enough oxygen. "I knew’... the signs were bad,” said Meg, a nurse. Scott knew, too. "My fear was for my family: If I’m gone, what will they go through.” said thc doctor, a father of two and a grandfather. On April 12, struggling for breath, Kaatz was unable to speak to his wife or adult chil­ dren on the Skype call. He communicated with hand gestures and facial expressions. "There were a lot of T love yous.’ Meg Kaatz said. Hours later, Scott was intubated and put on a ventilator. Sometime after that, he fell unconscious and was started on the convalescent plasma treatment. He awoke on April 18. Kaatz said Tuesday that when he came to, he knew he was in a different room. There was sun from a window . He looked al his toes to make sure he wasn't hallucinating. He did not know he had received donated plasma days earlier. But he knew "that I sur­ vived.” Fighting an invading enemy When exposed to a virus or other disease, the body responds by producing antibodies within blood plasma to fight the virus and attempt to prevent it from spreading. In most cases, lhe antibodies remain for a time (con­ valesce) even after the infection is thwart­ ed, standing guard to fight thc virus again should it return. In the past - think the Spanish flu of 1918, or more recently H1NI or SARS — convales­ cent plasma from a surviving patient could be transfused into someone with the same virus to boost their immunities. Researchers are hoping history will repeat itself with COVID19 but, again, since the virus is new, it’s too soon to tell. Already, thousands of people with high antibodies havc been identified through screening around the country’, including in metro Detroit. Earlier this month, Beaumont Health s . Research Institute launched lite nation’s largest serological testing study to help determine if COVID-19 antibodies offer protection after infection. But on Tuesday, Scott Kaatz. healthy again was able to focus on laughter with his wife during a virtual news conference - him from his home study in Troy, and Meg fro„i her son’s home in Texas. 5 ’’"Hie kids told me that 1 had this really M-rufiy beard that I got for a couple of weeks " Scott Kaatz said. “When 1 woke up 1 said Hi honey, how are you doing?’ She said “With that beard, I don’t know. Maybe we u, >. n have pulled the plug.’” should Kalkanis. also on the call, noted th-,. v.. Henry Ford colleague “is looking healthy He, too, was feeling hopeful. Now again, we don’t have •. basis for evidence of a large scale tri We’re still analyzing the dX’^tit , e yet’ �Pago11H Fhg Hastings Banner — Thursday. April 30, 2020 — Pago gHM ’ "ese candidates are runni^for office in Barry County Tire 1 hw deadline to tn fil.»71 hi . . »S('/v/(V’ « in Banj. c1Wllv w ‘ fw elected offlc. exception. ' '' l;w week - with onc For the city of Hau,w to run for office k at 5 ^^.dewllin'file Meanwhile, races lr?' ”• county, with contests f„, pmS "P “cross the ing four of seven comm "r5' ScaLs'inc,udDl«nct 7. Chairwoman M dis,ric,s- In ping down to seek the u .Calhcr WinS Mepwhile District 2 Comm’ oP Deeds post nmning for Thomapp|e Dan ParicCT » In the following list ], ' ,"P suPcrvi!>or. cated in bold. ’ ' 11LU,nbents are indiCounty board District 1 , Republican; Martha Revff n RC r GibSOn‘ District r. ,*i R?yff’®anash, Democrat CodyILayes.Dem^atne Rcpub,ican: District ^4 Republican Rich Bunts. US Tax°pay^lkLT- Rcpubhcan; DitffiMR "vR<? Ge*Ber-RcP“Nican District 7 H T**nJ'ee Conner. Republican County offices Count) Clerk - Pam Palmer, Republican Dram Commissioner - Jim Dull Republican; Kyle Staines. Republican ’ Prosecutor - Julie Nakfoor Pratt, Republican Register of Deeds - Barbara D. Hurless, Republican: Jordan Brehm, Democrat; Heather L. Wing, Republican Sheriff - Dar Leaf, Republican Surveyor - Brian Reynolds, Republican Treasurer - Susan VandeCar, Republican; Jennifer Meyer, Democrat; Susan Vlietslra, Republican; Justin Straube. Republican Townships Assyria Township Supervisor - Mike Timmons, Republican; Thomas J. Wing. Republican. Clerk - Tandra S. Angus, Republican; Annette J. Terry. Republican. Treasurer - Terry Ryder-Stephens, Democrat. Trustee - James D. Miller, Republican. Baltimore Township Supervisor- Chad VanSyckle. Republican. Clerk - Penelope Ypma. Democrat. Treasurer - Melissa VanSyckle, Republican. Trustee - Aaron VanSyckle. Republican: Gerard Ypma. Republican; Michael Altoft, no party affiliation. Barry Tbwnship Supervisor - Wesley Kahler. Republican; Rodney Dye. no party affiliation. Clerk - Debra Knight, Republican. Treasurer - Judith E. Wooer. Republican; Michele Dye, Republican; Ingrid Pagano, Republican JYustee - Barry Bower, Republican; Lee A. Campbell, Republican; Ricky Lawrence, Republican. Carlton Township Supervisor - Brad Carpenter, Republican. Clerk - Amanda Brown, Republican. Deasurer - Terri Geiger, Republican. Thistee - Gary VandeCar, Republican; Scott Bond. Republican: Cary Smith. Republican. Castleton Township Supervisor - Cheryl L. Hartwell, Republican. Clerk - Marcia Scramlin. Republican. Treasurer - Joy E. Mulder, Republican. Trustee - II. Michael Trahan, Republican; Earl M. Wilson, Republican. Hastings Charter Township Supervisor - James M. Partridge, Republican; Jim Brown, Republican. Clerk - Anita S. Mcnncll. Republican. Treasurer - Jcnce S. Phillips. Democrat. Trustee - Timothy B. McNally, Republican; Scott Savage, Democrat. Hope Tom nshlp Supervisor - Douglas E. Peck, Republican; Joyce Snow, Republican. Clerk - Deborah Jackson. Republican. Treasurer - Jolene Payne, Democrat; Arlene Tonkin. Republican. Trustee - David Messelink, Republican; Matt Peake. Republican; Wendec J. Wendt. Republican. Irving Township Supervisor - Jamie R. Knight. Republican; Tim Ross, Republican. Clerk - Sharon Olson, Republican Treasurer - Alesse Cross. Republican. Trustee - Rhonda L. VanPolen. Republican; Dean Bass. Republican; Mike Buehler, Republican. Johnstown Township Supervisor - Barbara J. Earl. Republican. Clerk - Sheri M. Babcock, Republican. Treasurer - Karmen Kay Nickerson, Republican. Trustee - Deana M. Powell, Republican; Jeffrey T. Warren. Republican. Maple Grove Township Supervisor - Jeff Butler. Republican. Clerk - Holly Carpenter. Republican. Treasurer - Ginger Cole. Republican. Trustee - Larry Hook. Republican; Doug Westcndorp Orangeville Township Supervisor- Thomas J. Rook. Republican. Clerk - Mel Risner, Republican. Treasurer - Michelle Ritchie, Republican. Trustee - Chad Kniai, Republican; Phillip Joseph, Republican; Jodi L. Patrick, Republican; Jake Bronson, Republican; Linda Kibble. Democrat. . Prairieville fi’* !"". !’'«ncburncr. Supervisor \ |Pster* Republican. Republican; M^^^P^’can. Clerk ’ Republican. Treasurer-J^^Vrres, RcpilbIican. Trustee - ‘ K’jX’ RcPubl|can; Mark Richard L. D. Doster, RfPub,,C general Ad Valorem tnv<»e Rarrv taxes within Barry township be renewed up to 2.0000 mills ($2.(X) per $|JXK) of taxable value) for the pcrirxl of 2020 through 2023 inclusive for olicc Protection and shall the Township levy such renewal in millage for said purpose, thereby, raising in thc first year an estimated S2f>0XXX>.(X). PROTECTION MILLAGE "^NkWALPRQI-o.SAI. 1.4566 MILLS FOR o YEARS shall the previously voted increase in the ,ni .l.a* bmitation on general ad valorem .ixes whtch inay be imposed on taxable prop­ c y within Irving Township under Article IX, m^u /ci Michigan Constitution of 15 mills ($150 per $1 BOO of taxable value), as 566 miHs (51.4566 per $1XX) of *. .i) c value) by required rollbacks, be renewed at 1.4566 mills ($1.4566 per $1.000 Thornappre i porker. Republican; Eric (?.f lax;‘ble va|Ue) for s.x (6) ycafs, 2021 Supervisor — ” roug i 2026. inclusive, to provide funds for Schaefer. RePubb««rtj£lnL Republican. T^tn Pi?C?,On purP°se<». and shall Irving Clerk - Cindy K. Buckowing, l ds/v1,P- n^thorized to annually levy such Treasurer b nulls (SL4566 per $IXXX) of taxable Republican. p^Maagd. Republican; PurP°scs. raising an estimated Trustee - K<£ . Republican; Curtis c ioo SIW.039 in the first year the millage is levSandra L. Campbell. Rep All or a portion of the revenues from this millage will be disbursed to the Freeport Rural Fire Association, BIRCH Rural Fire Department, and Thomapple Township Emergency Services or other entities pursuant Treasurer - sbaMn K’ Durk<^ to contracts for fire protection services within Irving Township. RCTbust«?n- Gabriel Steward, no party affilRutland *»teon- Republican. Supervisor Republican. Clerk -RobIn S^dra Greenfield. Treasurer " Republican. jjellniore. Republican; Trustee Rcpuhlican; Eric Miller. Gene D. H:dl’ rHn W“,tCrS’ Republican; Republican; M° 5. Republican; Matt Sandra L. J®” Spencer, Repubh^ ^TYustcc - Mikel Sla«r. Republican. Yankee Springs TownsWp Supervisor - R°b Heclbuis, Republican; Mark W. Englerth. Republican. Clerk - Michael bcott Cunningham. Republican; Ron Heilman. Republican. Treasurer - Debra L. Mousscau, Republican. Trustee - Larry Knowles, Republican: Dave VanHouten, Republican; Shanon Vanden Berg, Republican. R»rry TViwnvhln: ProMMl 1 Fin- Mill,.,.,. Shall the previous voted increase in the 15-mill tax limitation imposed under Article IX, Sec. 6 of the Michigan Constitution on general Ad Valorem taxes within Barry Township be renewed up to 2.0000 mills ($2.00 per S1XXX) of taxable value) for lhe period of 2020 through 2023 inclusive for Fire Protection and shall the Township levysuch renewal in millage for said purpose, thereby, raising in the first year an estimated $260,00000. • • . ■ . I Barry. Tounship; Proposal 2 Police Millage Shall the previous voted increase in the 15-mill tax limitation imposed under Article IX. See. 6 of the Michigan Constitution on Maple Grove Township; DUST CONTROL AND ROAD MAINTENANCE RENEWAL MILLAGE Shall thc previous voted increase in the tax limitation imposed under Article IX. Section 6 of the Michigan Constitution in Maple Grove Township, of 1 mill ($1XX) per $1XXX) of taxable value) be renewed at 1 mill (SI.00 per $1,000 of taxable value) and levied for lour years. 2020 through 2023 inclusive for the puqjose of providing Dust Control and Road Maintenance, raising an estimated $45,000 in the first year the millage is levied? Maple Grmc Tbwnship: FIREDEPARTMENTANDAMBULANCE DEPARTMENT EQUIPMENT RENEWAL MILLAGE Shall the previous voted increase in the tax limitation imposed under Article IX, Section 6 of thc Michigan constitution in Maple Grove Township, of 1 mill ($1.00 per $1,000 of taxable value) be renewed at 1 mill ($1.00 per SI .(XX) of taxable value) and levied for four years, 2020 through 2023 inclusive for the purpose of providing Fire Department Equipment, Ambulance Department Equipment, maintaining equipment and hous­ ing and operating same, raising an estimated $45,000 in thc first year the millage is levied? MillnfW!: Millage PROPOSAL FOR RENEWAL OF FIRE EQUIPMENT MILLAGE Shall lhe previously voted increase in the tax limitation imposed under Article IX. Sec: 6 of lhe Michigan Constitution in Orangeville Township, of up to 0.75 mills ($0.75 per $1,000 of taxable value), as reduced by required millage rollbacks, be renewed at up to 0.75 mills ($ 0.75 per SI/XX) of taxable value) and levied for five years, 2022 through 2026 inclusive, for thc purposes of purchase of fire equipment and apparatus, raising an estimated $120,121 in the first year that thc millage is levied? RullundTownship Millage: RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP MILLAGE PROPOSAL FOR PUBLIC ROAD MAINTENANCE/IMPROVEMENT Shall the authorized charter millage of Rutland Charter Township be increased by up to LO mill (S1.00 per $ 1XXX) of taxable value) for five years. 2020 through 2024 inclusive, on all taxable real and personal properly in lhe Township for disbursement of such new addi­ tional millage to Rutland Charter Township for the purpose of maintaining anchor improv­ ing public roads in Rutland Charter Township, which 1.0 mill increase and levy will raise an estimated $158,81425 in the first year the millage is levied?” Delton Kellogg SdiookJMillage: DELTON KELLOGG SCHOOLS OPERATING MILLAGE PROPOSAL This proposal will allow the school district to continue to levy lhe statutory rate of not to exceed 18 mills on all property, except princi­ pal residence and other property exempted by law. required for the school district to receive its full revenue per pupil foundation allow­ ance and restores millage lost as a result of the reduction required by the Michigan Constitution of 1963. Shall the currently authorized millage rate limitation on the amount of taxes which may be assessed against all property, except princi­ pal residence and other property exempted by law, in Delton Kellogg Schools, Barry and Allegan Counties. Michigan, be renewed by 18.0052 mills ($18.0052 on each S1.000 of taxable valuation) for a period of 5 years. 2021 to 2025, inclusive, and also be increased by 5 mill ($050 on each $1XXX) of taxable valuation) for a period of 5 years, 2021 to 2025, inclusive, to provide funds for operat­ ing purposes; the estimate of the revenue the school district will collect if the millage is approved and 18 mills are levied in 2021 is approximately $3,174XX)0 (this is a renewal of millage that will expire with the 2020 levy and the addition of millage which will be lev^ led only to the extent necessary to restore millage lost as a result of the reduction required by the “Headlee” amendment to thc Michigan Constitution of 1963)? • OnmmHllv Township Fire. Equipment Michigan boaters get motors back on water Brett Bremer Sports Editor Boating didn’t stop completely. Fishing didn’t stop at all. Outdoor enthusiast and 2016 National Bass Anglers Association National Champion Mark Hewitt was still able to pull fish after fish out of Barry’ County’s walers over the last month. Hewitt fished on small private lakes in his row boat. He enjoyed Barry County’s scenery while trout fishing, for the first time in 25 years, in a few area creeks and rivers on slate land or publicly accessible land. “Wc have caught a few trout, the biggest being 13 inches - all brown trout” Hewitt said Wednesday. “And I’ve gone with one of my sons (Matt) and my son learned from that experience and has gone on his own. I may go out yet today with both of my boys.” “Although frustrating fishing in the small rowboat and in the trout streams, I will admit it brought back some old memories of when I was a kid fishing with my dad,” Hewitt added. He has had his son Carter and daughter Rachel out with him as well this spring. A ban on motorized boating lhat went into effect April 10 in Michigan, with Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s “stay home, slay safe” ’t i b°at bG a nnexecutive order 2020-42, was lifted Fnday recently. The ban on motorboats didn ’ ‘ - P thB famiIy’inC U?*‘ ^taY i sister Rachel, getting out and fishing, but Mark is"hann^ home* stav Irom (April 24) under new executive order 2020­ executive order was rescinded whh thfmPart °f the Slat0 Stl^ay ’ y e 59. That new order is in effect until May 15. in lhe m °st recent update last y The people who operate, sell, fix, store and transport motorboats are overjoyed. For a couple weeks, motorized boating tor People who use motorized waters... • recreation was suspended on Michigan s procure secondary services for thcUr, lyPlcal|y have to waters - a tough pill to swallow for many in a gasoline, that could unnecessarily n„’ such as Parts anJ and soreari state that is annually among the top stales in disease. The hope is that the proh EaSe 0001301 with oth0|,ed watercraft the nation in terms of number of rcgis ere will reduce the movement of peoni? on ,he use of mol°contact boats. Michigan vies for the number one spot each year with states like California, Florida among people, with the intents sloXUl'?Jhe s,a,e and P°^onavirus." W|ng the spread of the cof and Minnesota. Canoeing. non-motorized boat travel were “ . , ____ DNR upd3'0,r°m April 10 during that two week suspension of mo ‘TdSnk the whole ban on mororboats was way over the top,” Hewitt said. I see son why J could not have been in n boat fishing with my family that I an I ‘ ‘ tined with, and how that’s any di * being in a small rowboat canoe or ay . having a hard time understanding c nor’s rationale of no motorboats other than possibly in large metro launch faedt ic . "Hie Michigan DNR did say th “many reports about the heavy use Of i launches across the state and the subse congregation of people at these himci?*™ violation of social distancing requj^^, ln and in a manner that threatens publlc h/-h?tS An update from lhe DNR fn)rn A J ,b*’’ when the ban went into effect also read addition, people who use motorized W l ,n craft typically have lo procure secontu/ er’ ver- .; stiJ1 as Parh» and gasovices for their «»f‘- 4jIily increase conlact we, that could unn£ . ^seasc. n,c ho|)c is *!th others and sp* |be use of motorized 'hat the prohibition o (|tf movement of peoWatercraft will redu^ |>oiei,tial Pie within the suw yuan of slowing the among people, with •• spread of the corona'-^cally been out in a Hewitt would hJl'c ' "When they put the motor ban on, it really hurt a lot of people, because that is when they had time to go boating and go fishing. The people that already had their boats at their docks, they couldn’t use them. So, now you're locked up, the boat is sitting there and you can’t use it. It was kind of irritating. In fact, it was very irritating." Kevin Matteson, at Matteson Marine Inc. ...... .. ..... — . •1 L. ■■ .1. motorboat about ten or 15 limes by now in the spring. He got out three times before the ban went into effect, but hasn’t had the chance since thc updated order Friday. "But a lol of my friends have been out again,” he said. Kevin Matteson, at Matteson Marine Inc. on the south shore of Gun Lake in Shelbyville, has been happy lo get his employees back to work selling boats and emptying their boat storage facility as quickly as possible. The experience at Matteson Marine over lhe past few days has been very similar to that of many businesses that are reopening like golf courses and garden centers. The phones started ringing continuously even before gov­ ernor Whitmer was finished speaking at her Fnday press conference lhat revealed tne lessened restrictions. “Monday, we opened up our storage ties because they said storage facilities could be open," Matteson said. “We’re just trying to crank them out as fast ns we can. The phone is ringing off thc hook. As soon as she lifted that motor ban. the phones started ringing before she ever even finished her speech. "When they put the motor ban on, it really hurt a lot of people, because that is when they had time to go boating and go fishing. Ine people that already had their boats at their docks, they couldn’t use them. So. now you re locked up, lhe boat is silling there and you can't use it. It was kind of irritating- In fact, it was very irritating.” Matteson said the season to start putting boats in lhe water started a little early this year, 'typically mid-April is when they re really getting into (he swing of things. Memorial Day weekend is one of the busiest weekends of the year to be putting boats into lhe water. Matteson said this week s activity has made it feel like Memorial Day week normally is. “It was pent up. Everyone wants to get them out in case (Gov. Whitmer) turns around and does it again. Nobody wants to be stuck without their boat once that warmer weather hits,” Matteson said. His employees have been starting earlier and working later. Wednesday’s rains didn’t slow things down at all. It was more than just a two week ban on taking motorboats out on lhe water that affect­ ed Matteson Marine. It had lo close for faceto-face business with the "stay home, stay safe" order on March 24. “It really hampered our new sales when this ban went on. immensely," Matteson said. Boat sales are picking back up now, and he was happy that nearly all of the customers who ordered boats at lhe 2020 Grand Rapids Boat Show the final weekend ot February were going through with their orders. Onc customer declined to follow through on an order for a 14-foot Lund, but that was it. Missing the chance to make more sales al the Ultimate Sports Show, which was postponed in Grand Rapids in mid-March, hurt too, espe­ cially fishing boat sales to customers who aren't ones that would come into thc regular showroom. One of the first boats to come out of storage was Matteson Marine’s own hoist boat to deliver shore stations and those types of things. • “Wc have been going really strong, putting a lot of boats in The guys arc doing a great job. My employees are doing a fabulous job. They’re just doing great. They’re willing to work," Matteson said. “Every one of them was ready to come back (to work) without any problem." �Page 12-Thursday, April30,2020-The Hastings Banner - g JLI Still some hope of late-sunimer baseball and sonoaii Brett Bremer Sports Editor Cardboard cutouts fill the stands, bat boys wear masks and the sun has barely risen in Michigan at lhe lime of first pitch. The four teams in the Chinese Professional Baseball Ixague in Taiwan are allo at least ten games into their season. Thc KBO League in Korea has plans to open its season May 4. There is baseball in the world, much of that streaming on-line, but it is unlikely that there will be any kind of youth baseball or softball on a competitive level in Barry County this spring because of concerns oxer the COVID19 virus. The summer is in doubt now as well. Michigan's “slay home, stay safe” order was extended into mid-May last week. AH youth baseball and softball for the Maple Valley Little League (MVLL) in 2020 has been suspended until further notice. All Maple Valley youth baseball and soft­ ball participants that had paid via online for 2020 registration will be refunded their money in the coming weeks according to league head Jason Hoefler. The league is awaiting a refund roll-out from its provider. Ballplayers will all be refunded their participation fee, minus ther $3 processing fee that thc online service keeps for events just like this. The Thomaple Area Parks and Recreation Commission in Middleville announced April 8 lhat the 2020 baseball-softball season is canceled and spent time in recent weeks pro­ cessing refunds for families that had already signed up for the season. The YMCA of Barry County’s spring T-ball season and coach pitch seasons were suspend­ ed along with all Y Recreation Programs for the time being. The Delton Kellogg Little League sent our a survey last week asking parents if their chil­ dren would participate in a shortened season should that be possible this summer. The Lake Odessa Little League, with teams in Clarksville. Lake Odessa, Sunfield and Woodland, planned to ask thc same question of its baseball and softball families, offering refunds or a league fee roll-over into the future while gauging interest in a shortened season in June and/or July. Hoefler reported that the baseball leagues for Maple Valley athletes participate in have all been cancelled. “If our MVLL Baseball teams have the chance to get outside safely with an ‘all clear’ from our state, we will try our best to offer a way cheaper and shortened season and rely on shared praclices/scrimmages/games with other towns that have teams to participate.’’ Hoefler reported. Thc Maple Valley softball leagues, because of their later start, as of now arc still on ns scheduled with games starting in June. “However, if they cancel their leagues, MV Softball may decide to mirror what baseball is doing.” Hoefler said. “.Softball participants will be informed of any changes and/or can­ cellations They will Jx: deciding all of this pretty soon I am told. MVLL Softball will continue playing in thc Eaton County Softball League if possible this summer. Hoefler said fingers are still crossed that some of the youngest ballplayers get some action in late this summer. A coach-poitch pee wee league is hoping for ballgames in Bellevue. Olivet and Maple Valley in June. If a T-ball season gets underway it will once again be a clinic style season held at the Water Tower Park in Vermontville with games held at the end of the season. “The MVLL board, would like nothing more than to have a chance, soon, to safely go back to some normalcy and play ball outside.” Hoefler said. “What better sport lo be able to play first than baseball or softball? But, we will only offer this when our professional health officials say it is safe to do so.” Two years ago, lhe MVLL. with help from the Lakewood Area Little League formed a close proximity, competitive, and communi­ ty-based youth baseball league called thc Tri­ County Youth Baseball League. Ute league has expanded to include teams from Portland, Ionia. Saranac. Hastings, as well as MV. Lake-O, Sunfield, Woodland, and Clarksville. Hoefler said currently Charlotte is interested in joining next year and Bellevue will be pos­ sibly be joining this year. “With all of the directors of each communi­ ty coming together to agree on the common goal of doing what’s best for kids and their families it has made things so much easier." said Hoefler. “Il has been a pleasure to work with all these people and all of them will be leaving their programs better than they found it for sure.” The league had a great second season in 2019 with high number of teams with high number of participants in each community. “We were seeing a drop in the number of teams around the area in rec ball,” Hoefler said. “Now thc numbers havc seemed to level off or in the case of Maple Valley actually increasing from the past few years. I just want kids to get off the couch, put down the con­ The Woodland 10U team, coached by Clint Hoppes, celebrates its 10U championship at the end of the Tri-County youth baseball league tournament at Woodland Township Park at the end of the 2019 summer season. Many youth baseball and softball leagues would be hosting regular practices and games this time of year, now some are just holding out hope of getting a few games in later this summer. troller, and get out and play somethingg. softball, baseball, soccer, dirt bikes, basket­ ball, something that will teach life skills and get the ball rolling in becoming a scholar-ath­ lete.” The lop athletes last summer included lhe Woodland team lhat look the 2019 Championship in the I0U division, beating a solid Lake Odessa 10U team in the finals. Thc 12U Hastings team won the I2U championship, besting the defending 12U champions from Maple Valley in thc 2019 final. I^akc Odessa won the 14U Championship, also besting a Maple Valley team in the finals at its level. “We really appreciate lhe support of lhe area businesses that sponsor the league and the support of the parents to allow us to help your child improve at bxseball and softball and havc fun during that process," Hoefler said. He was also very appreciative of lhe volun­ teer coaches making the 2019 Little Tike’s season a success, and thc umpires graciously giving their time to make games run correctly. “Thank you to all the volunteer coaches for making the little like’s seasons a success, it is greatly appreciated in a time when it is very hard to find coaches. And thank you to all the MVLL umpires lhat graciously give their time to making sure the games are run correctly and are benefitting the kids.” Hoefler was also hoping to highlight a cou­ ple of the “founding fathers” of the MVLL this summer: Merle Martin and Bob Starring. “Both very respected in this community and both having put lots of hours of coaching, planning, and organizing for the original MVLL. We hope to make it look as exsy xs you did and do you proud in putting young boys and girls on the field lo compete, Icam. develop good habits, and form solid relation­ ships,” Hoefler said. Hoefler may be reached at (989) 619-1388 with any questions about the MVLL, specific MVLL softball questions can be directed to Bry an Faurot at (517) 202-5850. Open burning, with permit, will be allowed once again •J Just over a month since it suspended open burning across the state in response to COVID-19 concerns, thc Michigan Department of Natural Resources announced that it would begin issuing bum permits once again on Tuesday (April 28). “We're going to issue bum permits based on local fire risk and weather conditions, just as we have always done,” said Dan Laux, fire section supervisor for the DNR's Forest Resources Division. “We still expect people to practice social distancing and use good sense to prevent lhe possible transmission of lhe COVID-19 virus.” Laux said that firefighters, now will) a month of experience during the COVID-19 emergency, have better protocols in place to slow the spread of lhe virus. The DNR issues bum permits online at Michigan.gov/BumPermil if weather and fire danger conditions arc favorable. In most of the southern I>ower Peninsula, bum permits are issued by local fire departments and local government offices. Make sure to check local regulations before you bum. Open burning of yard debris and brush were suspended March 26 to make firefight­ ers available for emergencies related to COVID-19 and to protect first responders. With more favorable fuel conditions occur­ ring as Michigan moves toward lhe “green­ up" of vegetation where plants and trees are leafing out and filled with sap. fire potential can now be regulated based on local fire dan­ ger ratings. These ratings are based on weath­ er conditions, including anticipated wind and rain. “We need lo make sure our emergency response resources are available where they are needed at this time,” said Laux when burning was suspended last month. “Less open burning means less potential for escaped fires, and that means staff can deal with other, more critical needs.” Because firefighters often work closely together on scene and when traveling to and from incident locations, die suspension of bum pennits was also to help protect first responders and fire fighters from infection by lhe novel coronavirus. “It’s out of an abundance of caution that wc want to support the statewide effort lo fight COVID-19,” Laux said. "Suspending bum permits in much of the state means fewer peo­ ple will be burning debris - the No. 1 cause of wildfires in Michigan.” State Fire Marshal Kevin Schlmeyer agreed at the time, adding: "This preventative approach lo limiting wildland fires is import­ ant so that first responders can continue mak­ ing medical calls during this health crisis.” Year after year, burning yard debris is the top cause of wildfires in Michigan. People who want to bum are still expected to check in at Michigan.gov/BumPermit to make sure fires are allowed on lhe day they want to bum. The Michigan DNR announced plans to begin issuing open burn permits once again on Tuesday (April 28) after open burning of yard debris and brush was suspended for just over a month. CHARGED, continued from page 1 ■——— Eaton County Sheriff Tom Reich said in a release Monday. “I commend the response and quick actions of our deputies in develop­ ing and communicating information on the suspect to our law enforcement partners across the state. I also wish lo thank lhe Grand Ledge Police Department for their alert obser­ vation and traffic stop of the suspect which led to his arrest.” Bond was set at SI million by 56A District Court Judge Julie Reinckc. A probable cause conference is set for 10 a.m. Monday, May U. First-degree premeditated murder is a felony punishable by life in prison without possibili­ ty of parole. "As in all criminal cases, the charges arc merely accusations, and Shepard is presumed innocent until proven guilty” a news release Irom Prosecuting Attorney Douglas R [ |Osd stated. ' J “Cheryl Fox’s death was tragic and sense­ less.” Lloyd added. “My office will work to ensure that her killer is held accountable for his actions and justice is served for Ms Fox .md her family. I appreciate thc hard work of the men and women of the Eaton Counts Sheriff’s Office. Michigan State Police, and Grand Ledge Police Department in investiKatmg this matter." b � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-05-07.pdf d702e84a46a62b39e97771873c6fd208 PDF Text Text ■MHMMWHWNWHWMHaMWMBMIW Caledonia approves two ballot requests Honoring our frontline workers See Story on Page 3 See Editorial on Page 4 Construction resumes on tracks and fields See Story on Page 10 804879110187 1070490102590503567549058113421 Thursday, May 7, 2020 VOLUME 167, No. 19 PRICE 750 Inmate death investigated as suicide Health department disease detectives Taylor Owens 5 a.m. Jan. 8., when he walked Staff Writer out unarmed after officers from use contact tracing to fight virus The Hastings man who, in the Michigan State Police Memorial Day parade canceled, flags still on This year’s Hastings Memorial Day parade has been canceled. However, cemetery flags will still be placed on veterans’ graves in Mt. Calvary and Riverside cemeteries. A Memorial Day observance may take place after the statewide executive order restrictions have been removed. MARSP spring meeting canceled The Barry County chapter of the I Michigan Association of Retired School Personnel has canceled its spring general meeting, which had been scheduled May 13. I The group is planning to convene Sept. 16. Hastings FFA plant sale begins today The Hastings FFA chapter will host its annual Mother’s Day plant sale this week, with some changes, mainly in hours and location. The sale will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, May 7-9. Customers who have already placed orders may pick up plants and hanging baskets at the high school, 520 W. South St. Those who didn ’t pre-order will be able I to shop from the curb. Students started growing plants in the greenhouse before school was closed in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. They planted annuals, such as petunias and verbena for hanging baskets, as well as begonias and peppers. Advisor Andria Mayack recruited her family to care for existing plants and to start others that were scheduled to be plants. Adult volunteers will help with the sale this week. Some perennials and higher-end annuals also will be available, along with a five varieties each of tomatoes and peppers. Employers invited to virtual job fair; deadline Friday In order to best meet employers’ hiring needs during the governor’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” directive, West Michigan Works will host a virtual job fair May 20 and May 21. Registration will close Friday, May 8, at 5 p.m. Employers may register to participate in morning or afternoon sessions each day. I Each session will include a series of 15-minute time slots in which employers will have the opportunity to discuss job opportunities with pre-scheduled candi-1 dates (see example below). Prior to the event, employers will receive a final schedule with a list of can­ didates and their contact information. Employers will then call candidates at the I scheduled times to discuss job opportuni­ ties. Twelve 15-minute sessions will be planned both days, from 9 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. To register, employers should visit: https://employers.westmiworks.org/virtu- I al-hiring-event-registration/. They will be asked to provide information on the jobs for which they will be hiring, including title and description. HAPPY DAY Sunday, May IO January, barricaded himself Emergency Support Team fired inside a North Hanover Street pepper-spray canisters into the house and held police at bay for house. more than six hours, was found Prior to that time, Rose had dead Friday evening in the Barry prior misdemeanor charges on County Jail. his record, according to Hasting Terry Jack Rose, 33, of Police Chief Jeff Pratt. Hastings, appears to have com­ The January incident resulted Terry Jack Rose mitted suicide, Sheriff Dar Leaf in 13 felony charges against said. him, including two counts of Rose was unresponsive when first-degree criminal sexual con­ he was found in a maximum security cell at duct, five counts of committing a felony with 7:14 p.m. May 1, according to a news release a firearm, kidnapping, unlawful imprison­ issued by the sheriff’s department. ment, assault with intent to commit sexual Corrections officers performed cardiopul­ penetration, assault with a dangerous weap­ monary resuscitation, but Rose was pro­ on, aggravated stalking and witness bribery, nounced dead at the scene. intimidation or interference. Although the cause of death appears to be Leaf said the jail currently houses 53 suicide, the incident remains under investiga­ inmates; nine of them sentenced to prison, tion, Leaf said. but the state Department of Corrections is not Rose, who had not been considered a sui­ accepting prisoners at this time due to the cide risk, left a letter that attested to his state COVID-19 pandemic. of mind, the sheriff said. Further details are The last time a suicide occurred at the unavailable while the investigation is ongo­ Barry County Jail was in 2006 when two inmates hung themselves in their cells within ing. Rose was arrested in January after a sixsix months of each other. An attempt was and-a-half hour standoff with police. reported in 2016, when a corrections officer When officers arrived on the scene in the prevented an inmate from committing sui­ 700 block of North Hanover, a woman told cide. police she had been assaulted by Rose and Leaf said the jail is “COVID clean.” trapped inside the house with him. She said Inmates are screened when they are brought he had a gun and was making suicidal state­ in. Two negative pressure cells, which do not circulate air to the w-'? yf the facility, are ments to her. Rose had reportedly been drinking and available in case an inmate should exhibit refused to answer the door or leave the house. symptoms. A standoff ensued from 10:30 p.m. Jan. 7 to Saving lives during a pandemic can hap­ pen right over the phone. A case investigation team at the BarryEaton District Health Department is work­ ing on contact tracing to stop the spread of COVID-19 in Barry and Eaton counties. Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical exec­ utive and chief deputy for health in Michigan, called contact tracing is an essential public health tool that will help determine and limit the spread of COVID-19. Across the state, thousands of health care professionals and trained volunteers are working on contact tracing. In Barry and Eaton counties, the health department has assembled a team to investi­ gate new cases of the novel coronavirus, and quickly track down people who might have been exposed so they can take appropriate precautions and manage their health. “We are notified that someone has COVID-19 by a phone call from a doctor, or through Michigan’s online disease tracking system,” Nikki Karazim, a registered nurse who is part of the BEDHD case investiga­ tion team, said. “From there, we reach out by phone to the patient, or the patient’s fam­ ily to learn more about who they have been in close contact with.” The staff then works to contact each of those individuals to warn them of exposure, and to provide instructions regarding quar­ antine. Sometimes people with COVID-19 may be an essential worker, who inadvertently Nikki Karazim, a registered nurse for Barry-Eaton District Health Department, is part of the BEDHD case investigation team. (Photo provided) exposed others when they didn’t yet know they were sick. “We know it can be frustrating for some people who don’t yet feel sick to stay home. But, because this disease is so contagious, ► • Tr'-• ■4 . .. See TRACING, page 2 Jury’s still out on Barry County 4-H Fair Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Like many other annual traditions, the 1681*1 Barry County Fair will likely be affect­ ed by the COVID-19 pandemic -- but exactly how much of an impact is unclear. Amid concerns about the spread of the novel coronavirus, Kalamazoo County is one of five to have already canceled its fair events, but Barry County fair board president Dennis Redman isn’t ready to make that call. “I really want to tell you we’re having it,” Redman said. “I just can’t. Right now, we’re in the same boat as everyone else in the state. We don’t know what the guidelines are going to be.” If there is a fair, the event will be quite different from past fairs. For example, Michigan 4-H officials have canceled all faceto-face instruction until Sept. 1. “This is all very new and uncharted territo­ ry,” Kathy Pennington, Barry County 4-H program coordinator, said. “It’s a very sad and hard situation to be in.” If the fair were to take place, Pennington said youth and adult entries likely would still be allowed. But those entries of crafts and handiwork would be as general public partic­ ipants with no affiliation to any 4-H group. Because many 4-H livestock participants sell their animals in auctions at the end of the week’s festivities, the potential cancellation has raised another question: How will they sell their animals? Perhaps virtually, Pennington said. “There have been some conversations over having an online auction. I’m going to take this opportu­ nity to give the kids some entrepreneurship training and show them how to sell animals remotely.” Monday night, Redman met with the Michigan Fair Association and fair board offi­ cials from across the state, but no decision was made. Unless they are given a direct order from the governor saying, “there will be no fairs,” the decision to cancel or proceed with the fair will occur locally, Redman said. “It’s not our intent to cancel the fair entire­ ly, but at this point we just don’t know,” he said. Even if a full fair - with midway, grand­ stand and other events included - isn’t possi­ ble, Redman said they would like to have an event of some kind. But, at this point, nothing is guaranteed; everyone involved with the fair is on hold, waiting until they can make a concrete deci­ sion. While cancelation of the fair would have some financial impact, Redman said it wouldn’t be much different for the finances of the fair, in general, than a rainy year when attendance is down. “Whatever happens, this year will no way affect making next year’s fair just as good as last year’s was,” Redman said. Another potential issue is if Gov. Gretchen Whitmer waits until the middle of June before saying major events, such as the fair, would be allowed. At that point, there would be a question about whether the midway provider can get employees, rides, equipment, and booths to the fairgrounds in time. Much of the infrastructure needed for the fair is housed in southern states, like Georgia, so it’s quite a trip to get everything up to Barry County. Redman will have another meeting with the Michigan Fair Association on May 18 - after the governor’s stay-at-home order is supposed to expire. He said he hopes to have more information then. Friday Night Senior Lights honor HHS grads Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Nothing is even remotely close to normal for Hastings High School seniors. It’s the beginning of May and, here they are, out of school for more than a month. Many of them have been away from their friends during a time that was supposed to shine a light on their achievements to cap their K-12 educations. So the parents of those Hastings senior decided to shine a light, all right — and to do that in a way that congratulates all those grad­ uating seniors for a memorable year. In a unique twist on “Friday Night Lights,” the lights above the football field were turned on Friday evening and signs, each bearing one of the graduating seniors’ faces and names with the words “Class of 2020” and the Hastings High School logo, were carefully placed in lines along the bleachers heading into the school parking lot. Safe social distancing was observed as individual students picked up popcorn and water and stayed in their cars or walked out­ doors at dusk under the lights. “Seeing all of the yard signs and all of the smiling faces will last forever in my mind,” high school Principal Teresa Heide said. “I miss all of these kids so much! I’m excited for their futures to get back to some type of nor­ mal and to watch them blossom in the next chapter of their lives. Faces of Hastings High School seniors line the driveway east of the football field after a parent group organized an event to help honor the soon-to-be graduates. (Photo by Luke Froncheck) “These kids have been presented with a barrier that has not only set them back, but the entire world as well.” Yet this unprecedented experience will toughen them as they go out into the world, she said, expressing confidence in this new crop of graduates: “They will certainly move See SENIORS, page 4 Alexander Steward, a Hastings senior, poses near his sign outside the football stadium. (Photo provided.) �Page 2 — Thursday, May 7, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Airport spending questions arise at Rutland meeting Each Rutland Charter Township board member is seated at least 6 feet from others to meet social distancing guidelines. Supervisor Larry Watson presides over Rutland Charter Township’s board meeting last Wednesday. “I understand there was a tractor bought a few years ago for $200,000 of taxpayers’ money,” Bellmore said. “And perhaps another John Deere tractor they’re talking about buy­ ing when they currently have two tractors there, why do we need to spend taxpayers’ money on that? “My question is, with this stupid COVID thing, is this necessary?” Smelker said the New Holland’s replace­ ment was negotiated with the Michigan Department of Transportation a few years ago. “Why do we need to buy another tractor for $200,000, especially when Larry Haywood [a local farmer] is out there mowing that proper­ ty for hay,” Bellmore asked. Airport assistant manager Mark Anderson, who was present at the meeting, said the John Deere tractor is used for snow plowing and areas not mowed by Haywood or other farm representatives. In a Monday interview, Noteboom said that according to federal aviation guidelines, the Luke Froncheck Staff Writer The true need of a new tractor at the local airport was questioned by Rutland Charter Township Trustee Brenda Bellmore during the township board meeting last Wednesday. The Hastings City/Barry County Airport has two tractors, a nearly 20-year-old New Holland and a 3-year-old John Deere. Airport staff, under the direction of manag­ er Mark Noteboom, is in the process of selling the New Holland tractor through a closed bidding method. Funds from the sale of the old tractor will go toward the purchase of a new one. The new tractor is expected to cost somewhere between $150,000 and $200,000. Bellmore expressed concerns over whether the airport needs a new tractor, especially during a time of economic frailty. She addressed those concerns with County Commissioner Jon Smelker, a member of the airport commission, before he gave his month­ ly update to the township board. TRACING, continued from page 1 stopping the chain of transmission is vital to keep folks safe,” Karazim said. If the health department contacts someone about a COVID-19 exposure or to provide isolation instructions if they test positive, they will not ask for personal information such as a Social Security number or bank account information. First and foremost, they are seeking contact information - usually names and phone num­ bers of people who the individual who tested positive might have come in contact with. “We will provide a local call-back number for those who are asked to contact us,” Karazim said. “Those who are in official quarantine may need to provide an update each day regarding their health - and it usual­ ly only takes a minute or two. We really appreciate hearing from everyone so we are confident you are still feeling well.”. BEDHD’s case investigation and contact tracing teams are made up of professional staff from across the agency, as the depart­ ment’s response to COVID-19 has expanded since March. They are working seven days a week; most days from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Health department nurses, community health promo­ tion specialists, environmental health special­ ists, and others are working together in this effort. Meanwhile, the state relaxed its criteria for those who could receive COVID-19 tests and increased the number of testing sites. And even with more testing, the number of cases has declined. But access to testing is still an issue and, as long as it is, public health officials say they still don’t have a good handle on the true prevalence of COVID-19 in Michigan. As of Wednesday afternoon in Barry County, since the first case was reported on March 20, 39 cases have been confirmed and one - a 59-year-old woman - died April 12; 25 cases have recovered. Meanwhile, 23 cases being monitored or quarantined. In the county, the highest incidence of con­ firmed cases - 11 - is in the city of Hastings. Thornapple Township has six confirmed cases. Irving Township has four confirmed cases. Yankee Springs, Rutland Charter and Hope townships have three confirmed cases each. Carlton, Woodland, Orangeville and Prairieville townships have two cases. Maple Grove has one confirmed case. BEDHD officials saw an increase in cases in Barry County on April 13, which they spec­ ulated might be related to increased testing capabilities in the area and changes in testing guidelines and prioritization. Coronavirus in Michigan Michigan health officials are testing residents daily and announcing results. This map shows home residence of those who've tested positive for the virus; their current locations aren't known. Total cases: 45,054 Deaths: 4,250 O No cases lease S 2 to 49 cases 50 to 99 cases S 100 to 999 cases • 1,000 or more cases *As of 10 a.m. May 6 Source: Michigan Department of Health & Human Services Bridge airport needs two tractors for ground mainte­ nance, specifically snow blowing and plow­ ing. The federal government has criteria for how fast and how far back snow needs to be moved after a snowstorm, Noteboom said. While one tractor would be capable of doing the work, if a large enough weather event hit, the airport needs both tractors to be able to clear the runway in the required time. Each tractor the airport buys or sells must be mandated and approved by the federal gov­ ernment. Without that approval, Noteboom said, a sale won’t happen. Noteboom, while not present at the meet­ ing, said Rutland Charter Township officials have no place in airport business. “They have nothing to do with it,” Noteboom said. “They have no authority ... zero jurisdiction. Why aren’t they going after the road commission for what they buy?” Local pilot Tomy Cordova said he is at the airport almost every day and infrequently sees the John Deere tractor utilized. “You barely see it at the field,’ Cordova said. “They use the New Holland tractor pret­ ty much every day, and it works just fine.” When the New Holland tractor was put up for public bid, Cordova hired a New Holland dealer to fly out and look at the tractor. The dealer told Cordova that the tractor needed a little bit of work but is still functional. “There is no reason to spend another $200,000 on another tractor,” Cordova said. “You can look around 400 or 500 miles, small airports like Hastings only have one tractor.” The township board also approved planned road repairs for its cemetery. The board received two quotes for the work, one from the Barry County Road Commission for $35,000 and another, con­ taining two separate quotes, from Arens Excavating of Hastings. The first was for crushed concrete at $10,299, the second was for gravel at $7,800. When the repair conversation was initiated during the township’s March meeting, Bellmore said crushed concrete is far and away better than gravel. She held the same sentiment at the April 29 meeting. “Oh yes, definitely -1 would definitely pay the extra money for it,” Bellmore said. “It’s worth the investment,” Supervisor Larry Watson echoed. “It never turns to mud, that is the way to go, period.” Before the vote on the repair - motioned by Trustee Sandra James and seconded by Bellmore - Treasurer Sandy Greenfield asked why the road commission’s quote was so much higher than the private company’s bid. “I’m surprised at a $24,700 difference between Arens and the county,” Greenfield said. “If we’re doing the exact same thing, how are these such a wide difference?” “It’s government, and you’re paying for overhead,” Watson said. “With Arens, you’re not paying for overhead.” Clerk Robin Hawthorne said, regardless of cost differential, both entities were given the same materials. Rutland Township residents can expect an increased police presence in their township cemetery. Hawthorne said two individuals were going through the cemetery, reviewing the grounds in preparation for Memorial Day. As they made their way across the grounds, they found about 10 or 15 syringes in a far comer of the property. The police were notified and are now patrolling the cemetery more during the eve­ ning hours. For the first time in over 15 years, Thomapple Kellogg seventh graders won’t be placing American flags on the graves of veter­ ans in Rutland Township. This comes as schools are closed due to social distancing guidelines. The flags and markers for the graves have already been obtained, Hawthorne just want­ ed to establish a plan of action for how the flags would be distributed. Bellmore suggested asking Boy Scouts. Watson said it would be easiest for the township officials to do it themselves rather than ask someone else and create a situation where social distancing guidelines may be obstructed. In other township business: - The board discussed the planned survey­ ing of the cemetery. But the decision on which company will the work was pushed until the next meeting. Bellmore said she wants to con­ tact a few more places and get more quotes. -The board approved its yearly hold-harm­ less agreement for Tyler Guernsey at 1450 West M-43 Walmart. The agreement allows for a firework tent to be set up at the minimart near Walmart. Cost concerns delay action on comp time request for essential workers Rebecca Pierce Editor The specter of spiraling costs delayed action by Barry County commissioners, who were asked Tuesday to approve compensation time for essential employees at the Barry County Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff Dar Leaf made the request during the board’s committee of the whole meeting, which was held electronically. The impact of closing government offices and requiring nonessential employees to stay home to protect against the spread of COVID­ 19 has created hardship for his frontline work­ ers, Leaf said. “We’ve got employees who are essential, who have to be in,” Leaf said, noting that they work 12-hour shifts. The request would allow essential employ­ ees, such as licensed law enforcement offi­ cers, corrections officers and kitchen staff, to earn 12 hours of compensatory time per twoweek pay periods for working during the COVID-19 stay-at-home order. In addition, the proposal asks the county to allow six hours of compensation time for part­ time employees who are required to work as court screeners, corrections officers and cadets so they could opt to use those hours for time off. It would not involve any financial outlay to the county, Leaf said, since the employees would not be able to cash out these particular comp time hours. Instead, it would go into a different account than their normal comp time account. The state is paying state troopers and state department of corrections workers an addi­ tional $10 an hour for their essential workers, he said. “My staff is just asking for comp time. Just a day off.” Commissioner Dan Parker, supported by Commissioner Howard Gibson, made a motion to support the recommendation but, during the discussion, a lot of questions were raised. Commissioner Vivian Conner asked if changing from a 12-hour work day would work better. Leaf said he didn’t know; he would have to look into it. Commissioner Ben Geiger asked why cir­ cumstances now would be any different from departmental operations prior to COVID-19. Leaf said the situation is quite different including the fact that essential workers have to pick up duties that were normally done by secretarial staff; they are handling gun regis­ trations and using their vacation and comp time while their coworkers remain off work. Essential workers also must contend with difficulties regarding child care and other family circumstances, as well as health issues, pregnancies or undeilying conditions, such as asthma, that put them at greater risk if they are exposed to COVID-9. “When I first read this, I was pretty much “When you start to hear about state budgets being crashed - not really knowing what that pie chart is going to look like with income sources coming in in the next year - I don’t think this is an unreasonable request [but] it’s probably going to be bigger than the sheriff’s department.” - Commissioner Dave Jackson against it,” Commissioner Jon Smelker said. “Now I’m not so much against it, but I would like to see it postponed because, whatever we do, I think we’re likely to do it for all essential workers. And, whatever we do, we would make it retroactive back to the 18^.” Parker asked the sheriff if the employees already have been paid for the extra work. “They got their normal pay,” Leaf said. “They have to glove up or mask ... for possi­ ble COVID cases. Actually, they’ve had to do a lot of extra stuff to make sure it’s safe.” Conner asked if their pay rates are already inflated “based on the fact that they have a hazardous position, right?” “Not to my knowledge,” Leaf replied. “No. State Police don’t have hazard pay. Our coun­ ty employees don’t have hazard pay. It’s the pay that counties our size are getting.” “A cook?” Conner asked. “How about a cook?” Leaf said the cook at the jail is deemed essential. “And they have to come in and mask up.” “Like everybody,” Conner replied. Commissioner Dave Jackson said Leaf’s request is not unreasonable. “But, if we do this for the sheriff’s office, do we have a big­ ger issue coming up with everyone who is deemed essential in the county looking for the same benefit?’ County Administrator Michael Brown mentioned that corrections and sheriff’s office are not the only departments in the county with workers who are deemed essential under state executive orders. Brown said the animal shelter, register of deeds and court operations are among depart­ ments with essential workers. “Most of the folks coming in and working in the office are falling under that criteria payroll, accounts payable. We will have to take a look,” Brown added. "... I would expect there would be a conversation with those having to come in, these basic opera­ tions workers. “Does that make them eligible, as well, for some additional compensation or remunera­ tion? We haven’t seen that yet, but it may very well come up.” Jackson placed the county’s concern into the larger framework of Michigan’s financial picture amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. “I guess my thought with this, in a broader sense, is that rolling around in this - when you start to hear about state budgets being crashed - not really knowing what that pie chart is going to look like with income sources com­ ing in in the next year,” he said. “I don’t think this is an unreasonable request [but] it’s prob­ ably going to be bigger than the sheriff’s department.” Jackson echoed Smelker’s desire to delay. “It may be smart of us to table this.” Another concern Jackson expressed is the “unknown scope of time” the county could be grappling with the impact of COVID-19 issues. He spoke in favor of waiting until commis­ sioners could consider “what this is going to cost the county in the whole” if the board chooses not to limit the comp time to sheriff’s office employees. Geiger agreed. “This may be a bigger thing. We have to do our due diligence and develop a comprehensive plan that’s right for the county.” Jackson made a motion, supported by Parker, to postpone any action on the sheriff’s request until the board’s first committee of the whole meeting in June. His motion was unanimously supported by commissioners. Chairwoman Heather Wing told Leaf: “Sorry about that, sheriff. It’s not dead; it’s just postponed.” In other business scheduled for the next board meeting at 9 a.m. Tuesday via Zoom, commissioners recommended: • Approval of the 2020-21 budget calendar, which will start a process that will take place over the next six months and conclude with a public hearing on Oct. 27 to adopt a county budget and a proposed millage rate. • Renewal of liability, vehicle physical damage and property and crime insurance coverage through the Michigan Municipal Risk Management Authority for an annual premium of $408,526 for 2020-21. The pre­ mium is slightly less than anticipated, Brown said, and reflects an increase of 3.3 percent. • Approval of the Dec. 31, 2019, actuarial valuation for other post-employment benefits - specifically health and life insurance - by Gabriel, Roeder & Smith for $12,000. The Governmental Accounting Standards Board requires the financial liability of these bene­ fits to be determined actuarially and complet­ ed every two years. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 7, 2020 — Page 3 Despite glitch, Caledonia voters approve two requests Greg Chandler Staff Writer In a truly historic election where the vast majority of ballots were sent in by mail, vot­ ers in the Caledonia Community Schools dis­ trict Tuesday approved two proposals - a nearly $88.1 million bond issue, approved by roughly 60 percent of the district’s voters, and a five-year renewal of the district’s levy on businesses, rental properties and vacation homes that passed with about 70 percent sup­ port. With all precincts in Kent, Barry and Allegan counties reporting, the 30-} ear bond proposal, which did not raise the district’s debt service millage, was approved with 4,246 yes votes to 2,871 no votes. Meanwhile, the non-homestead millage proposal, which renewed the 18-mill levy through 2025, plus provided a buffer against future Headlee Amendment rollbacks due to growth, passed with 5,137 yes votes to 2,125 no votes. The bond issue will go toward construction of a new elementary building to replace the current 64-year-old Dutton Elementary School and construction of a new community center that will include an aquatics center operated jointly by the school district in part­ nership with the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids. In addition, funds from the bond issue will be used for repairs, including roof replace­ ment and improved heating and cooling sys­ tems at several buildings in the district, as well as for safety and security improvements districtwide. The non-homestead millage, which will be used to pay for the district’s day-to-day oper­ ations, will generate about $10.2 million in revenue. “We want to thank the entire Caledonia community for restoring the operating millage and passing the school bond, especially during these challenging times,” Caledonia Superintendent Dr. Dedrick Martin said. “Thanks to the support of Caledonia voters, we will be able to invest in necessary repairs and upgrades to our facilities and support dayto-day operations. While there are many chal­ lenges ahead, there is truly a bright future for our kids and community.” The board of education chose to proceed with the ballot proposals even with the chal­ lenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, while other districts opted to cancel their May pro­ posals. Delton Kellogg schools < hose not to move ahead with seeking a renewal of the district’s non-homestead millage, postponing it until later this year. In March, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer directed local election officials across the state to con­ duct their May elections, as much as possible, through absentee ballot through the mail. The secretary of state mailed absentee ballot appli­ cations to all registered Voters in the Caledonia school district. While voters were strongly encouraged to mail in their ballots, one precinct was open in most of the townships that are part of the Caledonia district for voters to submit ballots in person. Caledonia Township had the high­ est turnout of the seven townships that com­ prise the district, with nearly 42 percent of registered voters casting ballots, including 48 percent in Precinct 3. “We had nearly 700 ballots checked in [Tuesday] alone,” Township Clerk Joni Henry wrote in an e-mail. “I believe there were about 350 people in the office to vote starting at 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. We planned for weeks in advance to assure safety and social distancing guidelines to keep our community safe, how­ ever still provide people with their right to vote. Our team is happy with how things went, but we are looking forward to even improving the process for the August prima­ ry.” While a technical glitch prevented the final ballots from being tabulated at the Kent County clerk’s office until nearly 1 a.m. Wednesday, county officials praised the work of local townships in processing ballots. “These local workers were willing to put in the hard work to bring in clean, balanced numbers,” county elections director Gerrid Uzarski said. “That’s admirable. I’m proud of the work they put in.” Uzarski said because of the primary empha­ sis on voting by absentee ballot, along with a limited number of ballot issues across the county, elections officials were able to make some changes to help expedite processing of the ballots. “The pressure from running all the pre­ cincts was relieved. We could use resources that were normally directed that way to focus on just absentee ballots,” he said. While both measures passed by comfort­ able margins, some people in the community questioned the timing of seeking passage of the proposals and are concerned about their impact on the business community. One large electronic construction sign on Broadmoor Avenue, just north of 84th Street, called for a ‘no’ vote on the measure, saying it would hurt local businesses. Trevor DeGroote, a 24-year-old homeown­ er and Caledonia graduate, voted against both proposals. He said he feels the district could do a better job of working with the funding they currently have. “I think putting the tax burden on business­ es instead of on those that want or will use the features they want funding for is a mistake,” DeGroote said. “Businesses will have a tough economic situation to deal with for the next few years and raising their tax liability hin­ ders their ability to be competitive with other local businesses in neighboring villages, townships, cities and so on. I think the district could obtain updates and upgrades by being more responsible with the funding it has rath­ er than requesting more.” For example, DeGroote said, the district could have saved money in the past by build­ ing the high school with less glass and lower ceilings, which he said would have made the building more energy efficient and less expen­ sive.^ The two ballot proposals followed an extensive districtwide- strategic planning-pro-' cess conducted last year that involved more than 200 teachers, staff members, residents and students. That process led to changes such as a realignment of the district’s elementary and middle schools, converting Kraft Meadows Middle School into a fifth-sixth grade building and Duncan Lake Middle School into a seventh-eigthth grade building, effective in the fall of 2021. Road work has left State Street in downtown Hastings closed since Monday, but expected to be opened tomorrow. South Jefferson open today, State street tomorrow Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Road work has closed two streets in down­ town Hastings this week. Hastings City Manager Jerry Czarnecki said this planned project for downtown was moved up the calendar so it could be complet­ ed while businesses are operating at reduced capacity. “We initially planned on doing it in the summer, but we got moved up,” Czarnecki said. “We are actually the first project that the guys working on it have done all year.” Resurfacing work on State and South Jefferson streets began on Monday. “We decided we should get it done now while the governor’s stay-at-home order is still in effect,” Czarnecki said. South Jefferson Street was paved Tuesday, striped Wednesday, arid is now open today. State street was paved Wednesday, is slated to be striped today, and opened tomorrow. “We’re trying to get things spruced up before Governor Whitmer opens things back up so we can roll out the black carpet,” Czarnecki said. Elimination of expiration date on marijuana prohibition approved Savanah Kaechele Contributing Writer Hastings will prohibit recreational marijua­ na establishments in the city, with no expira­ tion date on that prohibition. During a city council meeting in April, an amendment was proposed to eliminate the expiration date on the marijuana ordinance that prohibits the establishment or operation of all categories of marijuana establishments in the city. After a public hearing, the amendment was approved and sent on to the planning commis­ sion. During a Monday night meeting that lasted 11 minutes, the commission approved the amendment to the ordinance. Planning com­ mission member Jacquie Mclean was absent. “The council acted at a public hearing in April on the parts of tfe ordinance tRat were outside of Chapter 90. Si nep Chapter 90 is ope that the planning commission deals with, the public hearing needs to be with this entity, that’s why we are having this tonight,” City Manager Jerry Czarnecki said. “What we are looking for is your recom­ mendation to the council so they can have two readings this month and act this ordinance,” he added. Chairperson Dave Hatfield clarified that by approving elimination of the expiration date on the ordinance, the planning commission’s section would match the council’s section. “So, this just simply brings our sections of the ordinances in compliance with what the council has done with their sections,” Hatfield said. In this case, the council took action before the planning commission due to COVID-19 and the April planning commission meeting being canceled. “Because of the nature of what happened with COVID-19, and this body not meeting in April, that’s why this is coming after the council has already taken action,” Czarnecki said. Planning commission members Tom Maurer and Jordan Brehm had questions regarding the ordinance in the future. Maurer questioned if the ordinance could be brought up or changed at a later date. “It doesn’t mean this can’t come up for further discussion and [we] write anything else into our ordinance?” Maurer asked. If, down the road, the planning commission or council decides to allow marijuana estab­ lishments in the city or bring back an expira­ tion date, the entities could further discuss it, Czarnecki said. “Just for right now, what it’s saying is the prohibition on them right now, that prohibi­ tion stands until another action is taken,” he said. Brehm asked why an extended expiration date couldn’t be set instead of eliminating the expiration date. “Could we not just extend that date of the expiration instead of just saying no, that expi­ ration doesn’t exist anymore?” he asked. This recommendation would have to be made to the council at a later date due to the action already being taken by the council, Czarnecki said. Hatfield said further discussion on this ordinance is expected. “In discussions with the mayor, we antici­ pate there will be some joint meetings to fully discuss this, but the time frame is really not known,” Hatfield said. “So, I don’t know that we accomplish anything by putting an expira­ tion date on our portion of this since it’s not in the council’s portion.” The meeting was concluded with Hatfield acknowledging the 11-minute meeting. “Well, thank you for helping me set a new record that will probably stand for quite some time,” he said. The next regular planning commission meeting is planned for 7 p.m. Monday, June 1, Czarnecki said after the meeting. If the stay-home executive order is extend­ ed into June, the agenda for the meeting will be reviewed and a decision about whether to hold that meeting would be made closer to the meeting date. State invests federal funds to help older adults Bridge Magazine Michigan is spending $25.3 million in fed­ eral funds to programs to help older adults live independently during the COVID-19 outbreak. The funds received from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act will go to programs for those 60 and older that provide a wide range of services, such as help with bathing and dressing, rides to doctors’ offices, educa­ tion on managing chronic illnesses and sup­ port for family caregivers. “The need for these services has increased as community measures to slow transmission of COVID-19 have closed locations where many people typically receive services mak­ ing it difficult for families to assist loved ones who live alone,” said Dr. Alexis Travis, senior deputy director of Aging & Adult Services Agency within the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. The funding includes: $633,406 to support State Long-Term Care Ombudsman programs in providing consumer advocacy services for residents of long-term care facilities. $15.2 million for home-delivered meals for older adults. $6.3 million for home and communi­ ty-based services, which will help more older adults shelter in place to minimize exposure to COVID-19. $3.1 million to expand a range of services that help family and informal caregivers pro­ vide support to loved ones at home. These include counseling, respite care, training and connecting people to information. Highpoint Communit the graduates' who- hi • ~ s irmonmt m tVeCreremtum \ highpoint COMMUNITY BANK �Page 4 — Thursday, May 7, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Distancing on Fish Lake Honoring our frontline workers Fish Lake in southern Barry County offers a peaceful vista on a sunny day. Carla Wilson-Neil of Hastings captured this scene, noting that it makes her think of the lyrics to “Tomorrow.” The song from the musical “Annie” seems quite appropriate for these times. So, go ahead, it feels good to belt it out: “The sun’ll come out tomorrow, bet your bot­ tom dollar that tomorrow, there’ll be sun. Just thinkin’ about tomorrow clears away the cobwebs and the sorrow, ‘til there’s none. ...Tomorrow! Tomorrow! I love ya, Tomorrow! You’re always a day away!” (Photo by Carla Wilson-Neil) Do you remember? Malcolm 5 Banner March 17,1960 The Malcolm family is extremely proud of this photo, in which five generations of the family are gathered. Included in the photo are Mrs. John Malcolm, 84, of 411 W. Mill St.; Allan Malcolm, Route 2 Hastings; Mrs. Charles Pennington, Route 2, Hastings; Mrs. John Drum, 1005 N. Church St.; and her son, Gregory John Drum, who is 5 months old. Have you met? Robert “Bob” Lynn Aronstein, 77, has been around Hickory Corners with his wife, Sandi, since 1986. They purchased the building and started Hickory Hollow Antiques in 1987, at the main intersection of Hickory and Kellogg School roads. “Well, the peace and quiet mostly,” Aronstein said about what attracted him to the small community. “We do get manure trucks every once in a while,” he added with a chuckle. “You have to hold your breath. But there are a lot of great people here, and we have great neighbors.” Aronstein likes the people in his small comer of Barry County. His interests are few, limited to his shop, serving his customers, neighbors and friends, and being as good to everyone he comes in contact with as he can be. He and his wife are content with activities related to antiques, estate sales, garage sales, furniture restoration and some limited types of artwork. Life is pretty simple, and it suits them. He is happy to help others and understands that times are tough now. “We’re pretty lucky that our place is paid off. We live upstairs in our ‘penthouse.’ ” Like other small business owners, he supports his community and individuals who’ve fallen on hard times or just needed a break. “My wife is the business-minded one. She manages the store. I tend to run the outdoor flea market. But it works out. We complement each other.” He met Sandi Kay Dempsey, a cosmetologist, in the late 1970s when they were introduced by mutual friends. He had been invited to go to a local bowling alley bar where she was a judge in a beauty pageant being held there. They were both living in the Lansing area at the time and, after living next door to each other from 1982 until 1987, they relocated to Hickory Comers, purchasing the building they now have their business in today. They eventually married in 1993. Aronstein was bom in Mason on Sept. 12, 1942. His mother, Erma (Brant) Aronstein was a quiet woman and a good, caring mom, he said. His dad, Henry Aronstein, was a master electrician and businessman. He wasn’t around much. From what Bob can remember, Robert “Bob” Lynn Aronstein his dad spent most of his career working with vending machines, “cigarettes and jukeboxes,” as well as working as a welder making decoys for World War II bombers during the war. Aronstein was the the only son and the eldest of four children. Their family moved around frequently, and Aronstein attended elementary, junior high and high school in Charlotte, Alma, and Lansing Eastern, respectively. He graduated from Lansing Eastern in 1960 and went directly to Michigan State University. “I tried the engineering program first, but that didn’t work out and switched to business,” he said, adding that, after six years as a part-time student, he earned an associate degree in business. Working while he went to college was easy, he said, and he worked in several automotive plants, such as Motor Wheel, Fisher Body and Oldsmobile. “I really floundered around. I didn’t have any goals for a long, long time,” he said. Meeting his future wife gave him purpose and direction; she even offered him a room in her house out of which he sold antiques. They were dating and Aronstein lived in a carriage house behind Sandi’s house. “My thing was building custom furniture, and then eventually I got involved with furniture restoration, refinish, repair, stuff like that,” he said. “So before, I had no real interest in antiques. But it evolved. Now I like all kinds of stuff. I’m no expert, but I’ve learned some things over time.” For his love of the community and willingness to help his neighbors, Bob Aronstein is this week’s Banner Bright Light. Favorite cartoon character: Bugs Bunny. He’s really smart, and “What’s up, Doc?” is the perfect line. If I could build anything: I would build a treehouse. I love them. I also love to build park-quality swings. I would build more swings. If I could go anywhere: I’ve always loved California and Oregon both. I’d probably go back. People from California retire in Oregon. California has everything: Mountains, forests, deserts, the ocean, lakes ... I’d love to go back. Person I most admire: Abraham Lincoln, Bill Gates and Richard Branson. Richard Branson owns Virgin Atlantic and is an entrepreneur. Favorite movie: ‘'Perfect Storm” with George Clooney. It has all kinds of emotion. Best invention ever: Probably electricity. It’s made us more civilized. We’re lucky to be living in this country. Favorite superhero: Superman. He saved people. He protected the innocent. He did nothing but good. Best gift received: Probably the bike I got from my dad. It was a Schwinn. You know, I never really saw him much and really didn’t have much of a relationship with him, but I remember him giving me that bike, and I guess that’s why it meant so much to me. Other than that, I have met a lot of great people and that, in itself, is a gift. People in my life are gifts. Best advice received: Follow your dreams. Follow what you’re interested in. I’m pretty sure I read that somewhere. Each week, the Banner profiles a person who makes the community shine. Do you know someone who should be featured because of volunteer work, fun-loving personality, for the stories he or she has to tell or any other reason? Send information to Newsroom, Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. How well we know that this coronavirus is an invisible enemy. For those of us yet to be directly affected by it, though, our regard for the people fight­ ing to keep us safe might also be invisible. Our lives have always had nurses in them, police officers, too, and, hopefully, in posi­ tive circumstances. Same for Emergency Medical Service workers. We hope we never need any of them, but we take comfort in knowing they are there and will be there for us. All of these folks have come to be known as “frontline workers” in these anxious days of the novel coronavirus. With nearly every television report we see, we now realize how much we’ve taken them for granted. With every climbing disease chart and disturbing statistical report we see, we’re also getting living examples of what the words bravery and compassion mean. Nurses, medical assistants, emergency medical techs, doctors, police officers and firefighters are working long hours and risk­ ing their lives to combat this global threat. But there are so many others who have to stay on the job and keep showing up to work so the rest of us can stay at home and fight the pandemic. Food service workers, grocery store employees, truckers, stockers, retail clerks and more have played vital roles in keeping us safe, fed and healthy. Volunteers, too, have placed themselves on the frontlines to protect the rest of us. Americans are staffing food banks, and they’ve renewed their nurs­ ing and mental health care licenses to go to the most-ravaged areas to keep people well. “A volunteer is a person who can see what others cannot see; who can feel what most do not feel,” said former President George H. Bush. “Often, such gifted persons do not think of themselves as volunteers, but as citizens - citizens in the fullest sense: part­ ners in civilization.” Three other former presidents declared three separate celebrations each May to honor the men and women for the important work they do in our communities. This year, due to the pandemic, these special May cele­ brations of Nurses Week, National Police Week and EMS Week have taken on a spe­ cial meaning due to the efforts exhibited during a national crisis. Serving on the frontlines of a world health crisis, nursing professionals are using their skills and commitment during this coronavi­ rus pandemic to make a lifesaving difference for all of us. It was President Ronald Reagan who proclaimed National Nurses Day on May 6, 1982, as a day to recognize nurses. The day was later expanded to a weeklong celebration starting on May 6 and ending on May 12 — Florence Nightingale’s birthday. Nurses Week provides us with an opportuni­ ty to celebrate the men and women who care for our families and friends during difficult times. If you didn’t get a chance to read last weekend’s Reminder, it’s worth going back to read the stories of local nurses who are willing to risk their lives to help in places that need their special abilities. We depend on the dedication of nurses, no matter the circumstances, to treat us with clinical excel­ lence, but also to deliver care with special compassion. We owe a great deal of gratitude to these professionals who serve each day on the frontlines of health care. We depend on their resilience, their ability to deal with everything that’s thrown at them, and their willingness to return the next day or night to do it all over again. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that day falls as Police Week. Law enforcement has changed in recent years, taking on more responsibility and danger throughout the country. This year, though, has been like no other due to the threat of the global pandemic in which these men and women are fighting an adversary who can’t be seen. These dedicated officers go to work each day knowing they may encounter this, among many other threats, on the streets of our com­ munities. According to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, on average, one law enforcement officer is killed in the line of duty somewhere in the United States every 58 hours. “The police see people at their worst,” Kennedy said. “Drunk drivers, drugged chil­ dren, pained parents, angry killers, disorient­ ed criminals. Through it all, police officers must be calm, brave, helpful and — above all — hopeful they can make a difference. Let’s appreciate our cops.” These men and women are dedicated to keeping our communities safe and work hard to ensure public safety by holding individu­ als accountable for violating the law. We can show our appreciation by acknowledging them as guardians, not enforcers of the law. “We must find time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives,” Kennedy said. Other frontline workers who also are often taken for granted for their important work are the medical professionals who take care of patients even before they reach the hospi­ tal. They are our EMS workers, first respond­ ers, emergency medical technicians, para­ medics and others who provide emergency care. Like nurses and police officers, the duties of EMS workers always carry risk of on-the-job injury and illness, but now even more so because of the current pandemic which may expose them to the disease before they’re even aware of the threat. In 1974, President Gerald Ford authorized each May 17-23 as EMS Week to celebrate these practitioners and the important work they do throughout the country each day. These trained professionals contribute to safeguarding the health, safety and well-be­ ing of the people they are called on to pro­ tect. EMS Week offers a way for local commu­ nities and medical personnel to recognize the professionals who provide these lifesaving services. In their work on the frontline during emergencies, they often make the difference between life and death. EMS per­ sonnel include emergency physicians, nurs­ es, medical technicians, paramedics, fire­ fighters, educators and others working as a team to provide lifesaving skills. They deserve a great deal of thanks for the work they do, but they are often forgotten because their work in usually behind the scenes. They remain ready in an instant - no matter if it’s an accident, national emergency or terrorist attack. They’re trained and ready for any situation. “Whether you are doing CPR, extricating someone from a wrecked car or holding the hand of a little old lady, we do whatever is needed whenever it’s needed,” says one of our valued EMS workers. Nurses, police officers, and EMS workers are everyday heroes who should be acknowl­ edged, even though, in less stressful times, we sometimes don’t even see them. This year, each of these professions is imbued with special significance because they play a key role in the fight against a worldwide pandemic that took us by surprise and changed life as we know it. As he was leading the fight at Valley Forge during the American Revolution, George Washington was so inspired by the words in a pamphlet written by Thomas Paine that he had those words read to his troops. “The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph,” Paine wrote. As a nation, we should take the same inspiration that George Washington found in those words of nearly 250 years ago. The coronavirus conflict is threatening to over­ whelm us, yet we are coming together as a nation - and as nurses, police officers, and EMS workers - to soften the blow, to reduce death, and to fight for a more hopeful tomor­ row. This pandemic will go down in history as one of our nation’s greatest threats but, as Americans, we will come together and suc­ ceed in the battle against this faceless adver­ sary. Fred Jacobs, CEO J-Ad Graphics, Inc. SENIORS, continued from page 1 forward with strength and resilience after experiencing this at a very critical moment in their young lives. “I’m very proud of them and wish them all the best. They are all blessings to me!” The event was set up by a committee, led by Carrie Larabee, to help the seniors make the most of their senior year, given the current circumstances. “It was sort of like a parade,” Larabee said. “But it was kind of different because we were trying to maintain social distancing.” “It seemed easy for some students to gather and a little uneasy for others,” Heide said."... almost like they had to practice getting back into the swing of things.” For many of the seniors, it was the first time they’d been in the vicinity of their class­ mates since they had left school in late March. Another Friday Night Senior Lights is scheduled for this Friday at 8:20 p.m. for 20 minutes. Larabee said she hopes it is only the start. Correction Due to incorrect information provided to The Hastings Banner, the party affiliation for incumbent Orangeville Township Trustee Linda Ribble was incorrect in the April 30 edition. Ribble is a Republican. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 7, 2020 — Page 5 Business owner objects to board’s decision To the editor: I believe a gross miscarriage of justice was committed during the COVID-19 crisis by the Hastings City/Barry County Airport board on Wednesday, April 22, during a remote airport board meeting. Following an apparent complaint by Tomy Cordova, husband of Hastings City Attorney Stephanie Fekkes, to the Michigan Department Of Transportation, an MDOT official penned a letter to the airport board addressing Mr. Cordova’s complaints. Those complaints con­ cerned non-aeronautical commercial activity at the airport, the existence of a deer hunting lease on airport property and non-aeronautical storage in certain airport hangars. Regarding commercial activity at the air­ port, the MDOT letter indicated such use “appears to be inconsistent” with federal obli­ gations. But the MDOT representative did not indicate which federal obligations were poten­ tially violated or the MDOT’s role in enforc­ ing any federal obligations that might be in conflict with non-aeronautical commercial activity at the airport. Rather than obtaining additional specific information concerning the alleged conflict with federal obligations or taking action to protect airport leaseholders, the airport board held a meeting by telephone. The MDOT had recommended making a small change to the lease to allow my compa­ ny, Affordable Metal LLC, to remain on site for three more years. But that isn’t what hap­ pened at that meeting. Instead, the board acted to terminate the ability of Affordable Metal LLC to operate out of a privately owned building located upon real property subject to a long-term lease at the airport. At a time of the COVID-19 pandemic, when public meetings may take place over the phone, the airport board allowed inaccuracies and misinformation to rule the day. The poor­ ly informed elected officials went off agenda and out of context to single out a private com­ pany and used their power, almost in secret, to discriminate against a local business and make unfounded allegations. The board, without proper notice, signifi­ cant discussion or reasoning, took action that is detrimental to Affordable Metal LLC and its 24 employees and their families without even inviting them to take part in the discus­ sion, possibly in violation of the Open Meetings Act. At the same time, the Rutland Charter Township Board met in quorum without notice over the phone during the meeting with the Airport Board Commission. Those town­ ship board members all expressed their per­ sonal opinions as to how they wanted the air­ port to operate. However, in my search of the Rutland board meeting minutes, I found no vote authorizing the board’s involvement in airport business. Nevertheless, while Affordable Metal LLC has leased a building located upon leased air­ port property since 2013 — on land and in a building had been vacant for the preceding seven years — the airport board decided it would cause the sublease to terminate in 18 months. This action was taken, despite the approval of the FFA and MDOT to the origi­ nal tenancy of Affordable Metal LLC upon airport real property and the airport’s current rules and regulations, which permit non-aero­ nautical commercial uses. While the MDOT/FFA may have made a change in policy that created a conflict between the lease and their policy, the MDOT/ FFA approved a three-year extension to the term of Affordable Metal LLC’s sublease so that it could continue non-aeronautical opera­ tions at the airport with plenty of time to find a new location if a long-term agreement could not be obtained. However, Barry County Commissioners Jon Smelker and Vivian Conner, who serve on the Airport Board, chose to single out Affordable Metal LLC, one of the many pri­ vate companies located at the airport, for unknown reasons. While Smelker contended that Affordable Metal LLC somehow enjoyed a special advan­ Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; U.S. mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. tage due to the lack of real property tax obli­ gation, such is the nature of a tenancy upon real property owned by government entities. Affordable Metal LLC is a tenant and pays rent to the building owner; the building owner leases the land upon which the building is located. It is not extraordinary for a commer­ cial lessee such as Affordable Metal LLC to not pay property taxes and for that obligation to remain with the landlord or real property owner. Normally, the City of Hastings and Barry County promote small businesses and employ­ ers such as Affordable Metal in continuing and growing their businesses in the city and county. However, in this situation, certain city councilmen and county commissioners have decided that their priority is to terminate a lease with a local business and to force that business to move elsewhere on a very short timeline and at a time where this business is closed under the governor’s Executive Orders. This is certainly a poor decision in light of the uncertain business climate we are heading into following the COVID-19 crisis. In the near future, there will likely exist an abundance of vacant commercial space in this county and in other areas of West Michigan as a result of the fallout due to pandemic clo­ sures. The airport board’s actions in bringing about the termination of Affordable Metal’s lease without a viable replacement lessor available seems counterintuitive. In fact, it is an action that is likely to drive this business out of the city and county as commercial space becomes available elsewhere. These elected and appointed officials should be taking actions to promote and grow local businesses. They should be providing support to local businesses in the face of the governor’s unprecedented stranglehold over the operation of many small businesses. These board members and elected officials have allowed their personal opinions and beliefs to replace the best interests of the air­ port and community. I was encouraged to write this letter by the mayor of Hastings, the airport manager and the chairman of the airport board who believed the board’s 3-to-2 vote against my business was unjust. The board, before taking such a hasty action, should have done its due dili­ gence by reviewing the airport’s own rules and regulations that permit non-aeronautical commercial activity at the airport. The board should have provided ample notice to me and my laid-off employees who hope to have jobs to return to in the near future. The board should investigate whether its decision will likely result in the loss of rent and the return of this space to vacancy as it was before Affordable Metal’s lease. This move will require a significant expenditure of time, money and resources when small busi­ nesses will be -struggling to rebound from the pandemic lockdown. This is a dangerous form of government rule where local municipalities take action hurtful to their community and its citizens without fully evaluating the costs associated with their actions. As a member of the mili­ tary, I have helped defend against this danger­ ous form of government where the needs of the people are overrun by the political ambi­ tions of the few in power. If the board members cannot differentiate between their personal feelings and their duties to our community, then they create a lack of confidence in local government. If these individuals cannot place the communi­ ties’ best interests ahead of their own personal vendettas or preferences, they should step down from the board or resign from public office. I hope to resolve this matter fairly and in a manner that will not detract from my duties to my employees and our families, who rely on this small business in these very uncertain economic times. I, too, am a resident of the community, a husband, father, 20-year Army combat veter­ an, a Hastings City Councilman and CEO of Affordable Metal LLC. Don Smith, Hastings The Hastings BailllClT Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 News and press releases: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com Publisher & CEO Hank Schuuring CFO Hastings: One Stop Shop (Phillips 66) „ (M-43 North) Superette Family Fare . ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Hastings Johnny's Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The General Store Scott Ommen Ty Greenfield Mike Gilmore Colleen Egleston Jennie Yonker Subscription Rates: $45 per year in Barry County Rebecca Pierce (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer (Sports Editor) Greg Chandler Taylor Owens Bill Redman, Hastings The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Call anv time to place vour Hastings Banner classified ad $50 per year in adjoining counties $55 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box 188 Hastings, Ml 49058-0188 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, Ml 49058 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 ANNER Arec; Locations to purchase the Hastings Banner! ' to Marathon Mega Bev Penn-Nook Gift Shop • NEWSROOM• job always, and they have done a great job during this pandemic. Thank you to all of the mentioned persons. We really do appreciate you. Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Tom's Market Frederic Jacobs To the editor: We are always taken care of by first responders, law enforcement, fire personnel, medical personnel and support staff, but it takes a serious problem - as we now are facing - for us to really step up and say, “Thank you.” . The above-mentioned persons do a great 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Gary Peters, Democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510­ 2202, phone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room 720, 110 Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 233­ 9150. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. Published by... First responders, medical personnel deserve our thanks Hastings Pharmacy Phillips 66 Gas-Station (W. State St.) Phillips 66 Gas Station (M-37 West) Family Fare Gas Station Walgreens Middleville: Speedway Middleville Marketplace Greg’s Get-It-N-Go Middleville Johnny's Gun Lake: Sam’s Gourmet Foods The Dock Store Pine Lake: Doster Country Store Prairieville: Prairieville Fast Stop Orangeville: Orangeville Fast Stop Woodlands Woodland Express Freeport: L&Js Cloverdale: Cloverdale General Brown’s Cedar Creek Grocery Nashville: Trading Post Little's Country Store Nashville Johnny's MV Pharmacy Nashville C Store Carl's Delton: Family Fare Delton Johnny's Banfield: Banfield General Store Dowling: Goldsworthys Dowling General Store Lake Odessa: Lake-O-Express Lake-O-Mart Lake Odessa Johnny's Carl’s Shelbyville: Town & Country �Page 6 — Thursday, May 7, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Kathy Ann Bundy-Pittelkow The Storrs family of Hastings fills out their COVID-19 time capsule insert. Pictured (from left) are Andrea, Denny, Jeff (standing), Jackson, Danielle (standing) and Will. Joyce Claire McQuern, age 86, of Hastings, passed away on May 3, 2020. Joyce was bom on April 14, 1934 in Whitman, NE, the daughter of Garland and Thelma (Wright) Mooney. Over the years, Joyce worked as a dental assistant, cook, custodian, waitress and homemaker. She loved being a mother and housewife, and so happy and proud to be a grandmother, great-grandmother, and great­ great-grandmother. Joyce enjoyed gardening, sewing, needlework, playing the guitar, singing, and camping. She loved animals, fort-making, fishing, working puzzles, and bowling. She was a Cub Scout and 4H leader. She loved being home but had an adventurous soul. Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Bud; children, Thomas, Donna and James T. McQuern, Jr., and grandchild, Angela Schantz. She is survived by her children, Colleen McQuern, Naomi McQuern, Sam McQuern, and siblings, Naomi, Gary, Connie and Gerald. Memorial contributions in memory of Joyce can be made to Thomapple Manor, 2700 Nashville Rd., Hastings, MI 49058 or a pet rescue organization of your choice. Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 7 , 2020 from noon to 2 p.m. Due to the Executive Order of the Governor, only 10 will be allowed to gather at a time. A graveside service will immediately follow at Union Cemetery, 9975 North Avenue, Dowling, MI 49050. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome .net. Terry Jack Rose, age 32, of Hastings, passed away on May 1, 2020. Terry was bom on May 2, 1987, the son of RaeCel Rose and Jon Davis. Terry enjoyed quality time with his family and friends. He is survived by his wife Sarah Rose; his children, Elizabeth Rose, Autumn Rose, and Archer Rose. He enjoyed shooting at the range and anything technological. He will be missed by his parents RaeCel Rose and Jon Davis, grandmother and many aunts, uncles and cousins, and many friends. Rest in peace. We love you. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence visit www. girrbachfuneralhome .net. jr** W. - Juanita DeBolt, age, age 81 of Hastings, passed away in Zephyrhills, FL on May 3, 2020. She was bom on October 13, 1938 in Battle Creek, the daughter of John Parris and Edith A. (Misner) Parris. Juanita is a 1955 graduate of Battle Creek Central High School. On August 24, 1973, Juanita married Richard DeBolt. She was a stay-at-home mom and enjoyed volunteering with Barry Community Hospice. She especially loved spending time with her family. Juanita is preceded in death by her parents and daughter, Carolyn Allen. She is survived by her husband of 46 years, Richard DeBolt; daughter, Deborah (Stewart) Price; son, Wally Barbee; step­ sons, Mark (Julie), Matt (Patty) and Mike (Angie); 13 very special grandchildren and several great-grandchildren; sisters, Wanda Lavender and Sandra Kuhn (Ray Dahlman); two special nieces, Nikki Plummer and Lynn Filtenborg. Memorial contributions in memory of Juanita can be made to Thornapple Manor, 2700 Nashville Rd, Hastings, MI 49058 or a charity of your choice. Services for Juanita are pending. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome .net. Laura Jean Kidder Laura Jean Kidder, age 59 of Hastings, passed away on April 28,2020. Laura was bom on September 25, 1960 in Hastings, the daughter of Harry Lee and Joan Marie (Grimm) Kidder. Laura was a graduate of Hastings High School. Her son Deric Hobart remembers Laura as a very cheerful person. She had a nice smile. Her favorite hobby was collecting driftwood and loved going to Lake Michigan. Laura was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her son, Deric Hobart; brother, Harry D. Kidder; sister, Mary (Dale) Deverman, Betty (Johnny) Patch; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great­ nephews. Memorial contributions in memory of Laura can be made to Spectrum Health Hospice at give.spectramhealth.org or Spectrum Health Foundation, 100 Michigan Street NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. There will be no service at this time. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome .net. * Traditional and Cremation Services * Pre-Planning Services • Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible Serving All Faiths Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted ' O' "' ' 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 ill A * 269-945-3252 • www.girrbachfuneralhome.net * owner/ManagG Family Owitctl and Operated o“XrEmXhL Serving Hastings. Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 50 years Kathy Bundy-Pittelkow, age 64, of Dowling, lost her courageous battle with pancreatic cancer on May 4, 2020. She passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving children and her YaYa Sisters. Kathy was a fighter and she fought so hard to stay here. She was able to see the birth of her last grandchild and also to see her own daughter graduate from nursing school. Kathy was born in Battle Creek on August 7, 1955 to Deo Bundy and Marilyn Belden. She grew up in Urbandale and surrounding areas. She was involved in 4H and loved riding horses. Kathy graduated from Hastings High School in 1973. After that she took her passion for helping people and went on to nursing school, graduating in 1981. She was employed in the Intensive Care Unit at Bronson Battle Creek for almost 40 years. She was an amazing nurse and mentor to so many. She may have also been sent to Obedience Training to work on her eye rolling which was noticed by more than one supervisor! She always put her patients first and would do whatever she could to help them and their families while they were in her care. Kathy had a huge heart and an infectious laugh! She was truly one of a kind! She would do anything for anybody. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren who affectionately called her “Bama.” She was always up for an adventure and loved traveling. Some of her favorite trips were to Italy, Ireland, Costa Rica and Mexico. Most recently she was able to have one last amazing trip to Florida with her best friends, the Yayas. She looked forward to summer vacation Up North with her family every year and several trips each year with her YaYas. Her favorite places to be were on the beach, kayaking down the river, riding her Harley or enjoying a beverage on a patio! Kathy was preceded in death by her dad, Deo Bundy, her mom, Marilyn Belden. She is survived by her son, Troy Pittelkow, of Hastings; daughters, Lindsey (Sean) Schafer of St. Johns, and Lacy (Josh) Boulter of Hastings; her eight grandchildren whom she loved dearly, Kierstin, Brody, Sam, Emma, Evan, Theodore, Reid and Vivian; her brother, Deo (Bridgett) Bundy of Stafford, VA; her YaYa sisters, Lori, Leighsa, Cheri, Barbi, Jan, Brenda, Bev, Cindy and Linda. She also has several friends, cousins, nieces and nephews that will miss her. A Celebration of Life for this amazing woman will be planned when we are allowed to gather again. She would want us to gather in the warm sun with a cold beverage! In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Kathy can be sent to the American Cancer Society http://donate3. cancer.org or P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence visit www. girrbachfuneralhome .net. Edward Jones, Reminder to offer family ‘time capsule’ Greg Chandler Staff Writer The CO VID-19 virus has impacted families throughout Barry County in various ways, but in some instances, it’s helped bring them clos­ er together. Families are eating dinner togeth­ er, playing board games, talking to each other, walking together and more. And now families in the county have an opportunity to document their pandemic experience through a fun 10-page “COVID19 Time Capsule” insert that will appear in next Saturday’s Reminder. “We’re going through some unprecedented challenges,” said Andrew Cove, an Edward Jones financial advisor in Hastings. “We’re hoping families will document what they’ve experienced, so they can look back [years later] and remember what it was like.” Most of the pages are targeted toward younger children, such as a page that encour­ ages kids to write information about them­ selves, such as their age, how much they weigh, their favorite TV show or their favorite book. But there’s also a section where parents can write a letter to their children, as well, what they remember about the pandemic. Another page encourages family members to share photos or write a journal about their life and home experience. The COVID-19 Time Capsule project is being supported by five Edward Jones agents in Barry County: Cove, Kevin Beck and Jeff Domenico in Hastings; Zachary Kiefer in Lake Odessa and Wendy Stratton in Nashville. “It gives us a way to give back to our com­ munity, our clients and our families,” Cove said. Look for the insert in next Saturday’s Reminder. Copies of the insert also will be available at various locations around Barry County where the Reminder is distributed. Small downtown business to close Greg Chandler Staff Writer Efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19 are having an impact on small businesses across America — and downtown Hastings is not immune from that. A longtime Hastings business announced this week that it will be closing its doors as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Walker Music and Textiles announced Sunday that it would be going out of business, and that it has started its closeout sale. Steve and Nancy Walker own the business and declined to be interviewed about their decision. At this point, the subject is just too distressing. “We’ve had a good 11-year run and thank everyone who had a hand in our success, but alas COVID-19 has claimed one more vic­ tim,” store management posted on its Facebook page. The store has not been operating since mid­ March when Gov. Gretchen Whitmer closed businesses deemed “non-essential.” The Walkers have indicated that all items in the store will be on sale for the next two weeks at 20 percent off. The store will pro­ vide curbside pickup for shoppers on week­ days from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Teens can learn about careers in J A speaker series videos Junior Achievement of Southwest Michigan is releasing a free video resource for teens to keep them inspired about their futures. The JA Career Speaker Series features Michigan business professionals sharing information on their careers in short, but impactful, video formats. The series is on YouTube at youtube, com/channel/ UCvJpvQKaYH8H7eULAcKwPcw. The videos are searchable based on 16 career clusters, allowing students to focus on particular areas of interest. Or, students who might not have an idea of what they envision for their future can review many or all of the career clusters to learn more about what is available as a career in Michigan. “We were looking at what we could do from a local perspective to keep inspiring our area students,” said Bill Coderre, president and CEO of JA of the Michigan Great Lakes. “As unsettling as this has been to us as adults, consider the impact this is having on thou­ sands of young people who are at home. We are doing this so that our students can spend more time planning for and dreaming about tomorrow, and less time worrying about today.” This series is part of JA’s “Tomorrows Are More Important Than Ever” online resources being provided to students. More information about Junior Achievement can be found at www.ja.org/Tomorrows. Thomapple Manor planning parade Tuesday Thornapple Manor in Hastings will host a parade for its residents, their family and staff Tuesday, May 12, during National Nursing Home Week. “Normally, we would have a full week of activities and events,” Administrator Don Haney said in a press release. “This year we need your help to celebrate this special time and acknowledge that even though we cannot do big events with lots of people, we can show support to our residents and staff by having a drive-by parade.” Organizers are planning to take residents outdoors, with appropriate social distancing, to watch the parade, which will begin at 2 p.m. Anyone may take part in the parade and is encourage to make signs, honk horns, use noise-makers or decorate their vehicle. Local fire departments, emergency personnel, law enforcement officers and others have been invited to attend this short, fun event. Everyone is asked to remain in their vehicles. May 15 is the rain date if the event needs to be rescheduled. Anyone with questions may call 269- 945­ 2407. NOTICE OF SPECIAL WORKSHOP MEETING The City Council of the City of Hastings will hold a special workshop at 6:00 PM on Monday, May 11, 2020 in the second floor Council Chambers at City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The purpose of the workshop will be the presentation of the draft 2020/2021 municipal budget. Jane M. Saurman, City Clerk 140628 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. May 7, 2020 — Page 7 ^x^ - I fl look back at the stories and columns on local history In the Hastings Banner TURNING I BflGK THE I PAGES Collection of Hastings native still significant a century later Kathy Maurer Copy Editor More than 100 years after being donated to the City of Detroit and its public library, the Burton Historical Collection today remains one of the most important private historical collections in the United States. The namesake and donor was Clarence Monroe Burton, who spent his childhood in Hastings. His father, Dr. Charles S. Burton (featured in the April 30 Banner), was a man of many interests, one of which was newspapers. He was a founding owner of the Banner, which was first published in May 1856. Clarence, the second child of Dr. Burton and his wife Anne Monroe, was born in Whiskey Diggings, Sierra County, Calif., where the family had moved to join the search for gold. Dr. Burton had some success, but grew tired of the lifestyle. After a treacherous first attempt in 1854 when Clarence was 1 year old, the family returned to Michigan a year later and settled in Hastings. Young Clarence soon realized he was far more interested in school, books and studying than in farm work. His older brother attended the University of Michigan, and Clarence, having finished school in Hastings, moved there when he was just 16. By 20, he had earned a bachelor’s degree and law degree, and was ready to be admitted to the State Bar. But he was too young. Clarence Burton Twenty-one was the minimum wage. The day after he turned 21, Burton became an attorney. He began working as an examiner in a title office. Abstracts and titles would become the core of his career, but historic research became his passion. To share the results of his labors, he authored (sometimes co-authored) nearly 30 books in his lifetime. Early on, money was scarce for his young family. His wife, Harriet “Hattie” Nye, and eldest child lived with her parents in Ann Arbor until he could afford to buy a home. He slept on a cot in the office, worked hard, saved his money and, other than buying books, spent little of it. He even reportedly would stand outside a neighborhood home from which he could hear band music, the closest he could get to attending a concert. Eventually, he was earning enough money to buy a tiny, three-room home. The dwelling no longer exists. It’s part of a parking lot now, along 1-75, between the stadiums where the Detroit Tigers and Lions play. His historic collections grew, as did his family and his homes. When he first donated his massive historic collection in 1915, it was in his home on Brainard Street (no longer standing). While the new Detroit library was being constructed, the public visited the home to view the collection. After the library was completed, Burton sold the home and used the funds to establish an endowment for future acquisitions for the collection. Much information can be found online regarding Clarence Burton and his contributions. The Burton Collection is accessible on the Detroit Library’s website. He served on the city council for several years, as well as on the boards of directors for various businesses and organizations, offering other online search results. A 21-minute YouTube video, “Digging Detroit Episode 13: Treasures from the Burton Historical Collection,” gives a bit of background on Burton and highlights a few items in the growing collection. A Detroit News writer described Burton as most independent and indefatigable, adding, “his energy was indescribable,” walking to and from work, sometimes four times a day. His mental pursuits must have been relentless, as well, according to an item published in the Sept. 11,1911, Detroit Times: “Clarence M. Burton went to Goderich, Ontario [a small Lake Huron town east of Michigan’s Thumb], 10 days ago for a complete rest, but that old Canadian town, so rich in historic lore, proved too much for Mr. Burton’s historiographical proclivities, and he worked night and day delving into historical data, taking notes and storing up more information about Goderich and its people than the oldest inhabitant ever heard of. Mr. Burton returned to Detroit Saturday, and declared he never had a finer vacation.” The Banner in 1922 printed a lengthy article on how Clarence Burton grew his priceless collection, which will be published next week. Sources: Hastings Banner, familysearch, org, chroniclingamerica.gov.loc, Detroit Public Library, Detroit Times. Burton home was site of gatherings Dr. Charles S. Burton, an early doctor and founder of the Banner, was featured in this column in the April 30 Banner. He was the father of four sons and one daughter. One son, William, died when he was around 6. The other three sons all became attorneys. The elder two, Charles F., Clarence, moved to Detroit, and Clarence, who will be featured in next week’s Banner, made a significant contribution to that city. Edward Anderson Burton, youngest child of Dr. C.S. and Anne (Monroe) Burton, remained in Hastings where he practiced law. His home made the news when construction began in late spring 1900. The May 3,1900, Banner announced work was to begin on a stone residence. The large home on South Jefferson Street, now serves as the rectory for St. Rose Catholic Church. The church, actually, was built about 10 years after the house. The home, as reported in the Banner, would be “an ornament to the city” when completed, built of cut stone, with plate-glass windows and equipped with a water-heating plant. The Dec. 20, 1900, Banner reported that the stone work was nearly complete, but it wasn’t until mid-October 1901, that the Burtons moved into their new home. The house was used for public gatherings and many social events in Hastings, according to the 2015 St. Rose centennial publication written by Terry McCloskey Campbell. Edward died in 1940. His widow Julia “Belle” Handy, remained in the home until her death in May 9, 1951. The home was purchased by the Grand Rapids Diocese the following year and converted into the church rectory. Edward and Belle Burton frequently hosted community gatherings and meeting in their spacious home that is now the rectory of St. Rose Catholic Church in Hastings. (Photo from St. Rose 1915 centennial publication) LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING FILE NO. 20028510-DE In the matter of Keith Edward Stearns. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS including: unknown heirs whose address(es) is/are unknown and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: TAKE NOTICE: A hearing will be held on May 27, 2020 at 2:15 p.m. at 206 W. Court St., Hastings, Ml 49058 before Judge William M. Doherty P41960 for the following purpose: Petition for Probate and Appointment of Personal Representative. Mark L. Feinberg, P.C. Mark L. Feinberg P31608 30300 Northwestern Hwy., Third Floor Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) 932-3500 Lawrence J. Benton 30700 Telegraph Road, Suite 1644 Bingham Farms, Ml 48025 (248)642-4200 140895 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 2020-28514-DE Estate of Daniel Merl Clemens. Date of birth: 12/01/1949. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Daniel Merl Clemens, died 01/02/2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Jason Clemens, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court St., Suite 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 05/06/2020 David H. Tripp P29290 202 S. Broadway Hastings, Ml 49058 269-948-2900 Jason Clemens 2219 Pennell Road Albion, Ml 49224 140896 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 2020-28486-DE Estate of Eralia Emelina Nye a/k/a Eralia Emily Nye. Date of birth: 09/30/1929. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Eralia Emelina Nye a/k/a Eralia Emily Nye, died 12/08/2017. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Thomas Nye, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 04/29/2020 David H. Tripp P29290 202 S. Broadway Hastings, Ml 49058 269-948-2900 Thomas Nye 3247 Heath Road Hastings, Ml 49058 (269)838-6898 140620 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 20-28465-DE Estate of Gary Frank Meints. Date of birth: 02/23/1944. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Gary Frank Meints, died 08/29/2019. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Thomas M. Meints, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court , Suite 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 05/04/2020 David H. Tripp P29290 202 S. Broadway Hastings, Ml 49058 269-948-2900 Thomas M. Meints 8920 N 43rd St. Augusta, Ml 49012 269-203-5830 140778 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 20-28497-DE Estate of Margaret M. Black a/k/a Margaret Madalyn Black, deceased. Date of birth: 12/5/1923. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Margaret M. Black a/k/a Margaret Madalyn Black, died June 7, 2018. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Darla B. Coult, Janice B. Cambell & Marilyn B. Kidd, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court St., Suite 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. mMHHH Date: 5/4/2020 William B. Millard P39054 211 E. Water Street, Ste. 401 Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007 (269)343-2106 Darla B. Coult, Janice B. Qambell & Marilyn B. Kidd 9807 N. 48th Street Augusta, Michigan 49012 (678) 584-3117 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 20-28496-DE Estate of Margaret Ann Crawford. Date of birth: 07/07/1956. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Margaret Ann Crawford, died January 22, 2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Melissa Ohlrich, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court St., Suite 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: May 4, 2020 Joseph D. Hess P78028 171 Monroe Ave NW, Suite 1000 Grand Rapids, Ml 49503 616-742-3962 Melissa Ohlrich 8530 Beaver St SE Alto, Ml 49302 616-862-2453 140840 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS TRUST In the matter of: The Steven Tze Liu Trust, dated September 27, 2013. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Steven Tze Liu, who lived at 7715 North Noffke Drive, Caledonia, Michigan 49316, died on March 13, 2020, leaving a certain trust under the name of Steven Tze Liu Trust, dated September 27, 2013, wherein the decedent was the Settlor and Matthew Dean Liu was named as Successor Trustee serving at the time of or as a result of the decedent’s death. Creditors of the decedent of the trust are notified that all claims against the decedent or against the trust will be forever barred unless presented to Matthew Dean Liu, the named Successor Trustee, at Tripp & Tagg, Attorneys at Law, 202 South Broadway, Hastings, Michigan 49058, within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: May 4, 2020 Nathan E. Tagg (P68994) 202 South Broadway Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-2900 Matthew Dean Liu 16066 Grazenview Street Schoolcraft, Ml 49087 269-207-7004 140898 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 20-28498-DE Estate of Joshua Aaron Keeny. Date of birth: 10/29/1983. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Joshua Aaron Keeny, died 05/04/2018. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Shannon Keeny, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 09/24/2019 Shane A. Henry P82054 121 West Apple Street, Suite 101 Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269) 945-3512 Shannon Keeny 520 Pinewood Road Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269)275-9167 140610 & Curb-Side PICK-UP We will be featuring the perfect Mother’s Day Jewelry and Gift Ideas in our display windows with prices and an identification number. Call us with your selected items and we will wrap them up and present them to you curb-side. Mary Margaret Downes, Hickory Comers and Patrick James Nazek, Ridgecrest, CA Jonas P. Herschberger, Nashville and Marie A. Yoder, Nashville Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads SHOPPING MADE SAFE AND EASY! The stone house on South Jefferson Street near Madison was a modern showplace when it was built in 1900. (Photo from St. Rose 1915 centennial publication) ^Trusted Since 1554«^» Items may also be seen on our Facebook page 102 E. State Street • Downtown Hastings 269-945-9572 �Page 8 — Thursday, May 7, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Selling, distributing unregistered disinfectants poses public safety risk The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is reminding businesses and consumers how to buy and use disinfectants safely, effectively and legally. Woman arrested for arson The Barry County Sheriff’s Office was called to assist the Hastings Fire Department with a suspicious structure fire in Carlton Township at 5:43 p.m. May 4. A small shed near an abandoned residence had caught fire. Witnesses told deputies they believed a woman set fire to the shed. After an investigation, a 35-year-old woman was arrested for arson. No injuries were reported. Confederate flag stolen from bus The Hastings City Police Department was dispatched in response to a larceny complaint concerning a Confederate flag at 9:23 a.m. April 27. The complainant said he owned a bus, which was parked in the 500 block of West Apple Street. The bus had multiple political signs supporting Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf, along with a Confederate flag attached to the signage, which had been stolen. The value of the flag is estimated at $50, and there are no suspects. Teenager hits uncle Hastings City Police were dispatched to a domestic violence complaint in the 600 block of East South Street at 1:33 p.m. April 20. A woman said her grandson, 19, was upset with her because she had asked him to shut off a light in the house. He began punching a bath­ room wall and, when his uncle was walking past the bathroom, he was struck in the face, causing injury. The suspect and victim fought on the ground briefly before police arrived. The grandson was arrested; his uncle refused medical treatment. Man arrested for OWI after bonfire Police were called out to an illegal burn in the 1000 block of East Railroad Street at 10:10 p.m. April 24. As Hastings City Police officers arrived, they saw a vehicle pull off the street and into the backyard of a residence. Officers contacted the driver, a 25-year-old Hastings man, who said he was just leaving a bonfire. He told police that he had consumed a 15-pack of beer, and probably should not have been driving. He had a 0.14 blood alcohol content and was arrested. Financial FOCUS Provided by the Barry County offices of Edward Jones Andrew Cove, AAMS® Member SIPC 421 W. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-3553 Jim Lundin 2169W. M-43-Hwy., Suite A Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 818-0423 COVID-19 relief legislation offers help for investors, small businesses As we go through the coronavirus crisis, we are all, first and foremost, concerned about the health of our loved ones and communities. But the economic implications of the virus have also weighed heavily on our minds. However, if you’re an investor or a business owner, you may benefit from COVID-19 relief legislation (“Legislation”) out of Washington - and it could make a big difference, at least in the short term, for your financial future. •Expanded unemployment benefits - The Legislation provides $250 billion for extended unemployment insurance, expands eligibility and provides workers with an additional $600 per week until July 31, 2020, in addition to what state programs pay. The package also covers the self-employed, independent contractors and “gig economy” workers. Obviously, if your employment has been affected, these benefits can be a lifeline. Furthermore, the benefits could help you avoid liquidating some long-term investments you’ve earmarked for retirement just to meet your daily cash flow needs. • Direct payments - You may already have received, or soon will receive, a one­ time direct payment from the government. Individuals will receive up to $1,200; this amount is reduced for incomes over $75,000 and eliminated altogether at $99,000. Joint filers will receive up to $2,400, which will be reduced for incomes over $150,000 and eliminated at $198,000 for joint filers with no children. Plus, taxpayers with children will receive an extra $500 for each dependent child under the age of 17. If you don’t need this money for an immediate need, you might consider putting it into a low-risk, liquid account as part of an emergency fund. • No penalty on early withdrawals - Typically, you’d have to pay a 10% penalty on early withdrawals from IRAs, 401(k)s and similar retirement accounts. Under the Legislation, this penalty will be waived for individuals who qualify for COVID-19 relief and/or in plans that allow COVID-19 distributions. Withdrawals from traditional retirement accounts will still be taxable, but the taxes can be spread out over three years. Still, you might want to avoid taking early withdrawals, as you’ll want to keep your retirement accounts intact as long as possible. • Suspension of required withdrawals - Once you turn 72, you’ll be required to take withdrawals from your traditional IRA and 401(k). The Legislation waives these required minimum distributions for 2020. If you’re in this age group, but you don’t need the money, you can let your retirement accounts continue growing on a tax-deferred basis. • Increase of retirement plan loan limit - Retirement plan investors who qualify for COVID-19 relief can now borrow up to the lesser of $100,000 or the vested balance from their accounts, up from $50,000 or 50% of the vested balance, provided their plan allows loans. We recommend that you explore other options, such as the direct payments, to bridge the gap on current expenses and if you choose to take a plan loan work with your financial adviser to develop strategies to pay back these funds over time to reduce any long-term impact to your retirement goals. • Small-business loans Included in the Legislation is the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which initially provided $349 billion in federally guaranteed loans to help small businesses -- those with 500 or fewer employees - retain workers and avoid closing up shop. The first allocation of funds was quickly depleted; however, Congress authorized an additional $310 billion for the PPP. These loans may be forgiven if borrowers use the loans for payroll and other essential business expenses (such as mortgage interest, rent and utilities) and maintain their payroll during the crisis. We’ll be in a challenging economic environment for some time, but the Legislation should give us a positive jolt and brighten our outlook. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones. Member SIPC. Disinfecting is an important step in preventing and reducing the spread of viruses, bacteria, and other microbes, including the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19. Disinfectants are considered pesticides by law and are regulated by MDARD and the Environmental Protection Agency. The EPA has compiled a list of products that can be used against COVID-19. The list is periodically updated with new information. “It is illegal to make, sell, or give away an unregistered disinfectant, and doing so puts the public’s health at risk,” said Mike Philip, Pesticide and Plant Pest Management Division director. “Making your own disinfectant by repackaging a product, or creating your own recipe and selling it, or giving it away is both dangerous and a violation of state and federal law. It also puts public health at risk when the law isn’t followed. In the case of pesticides and disinfectants, the label is the law.” All disinfectants must be registered by MDARD and the EPA. When a virus is listed on a disinfectant label, it means the product has been tested and proven effective on that virus or similar viruses. It also means the product label contains instructions for safe, effective use. “In most cases, people selling or distributing unregistered disinfectants are trying to be helpful, but they may actually put people at higher risk with an ineffective and potentially harmful product,” said Brian Verhougstraete, MDARD’s Pesticide Section manager. “Only use EPA-registered disinfectants and follow the directions on the product label. You can verify a disinfectant is EPA-registered by looking for the two or three-part EPA registration number on the product label.” A disinfectant label carries the force of law. Before using a disinfectant, confirm the surface being treated is listed on the product label. For example, if treating a bathroom fixture, non-porous surfaces should be listed on the label. Also, ensure the disinfectant remains visibly wet on the treated surface for the required amount of time as listed on the label. The product may have to be reapplied if it dries before the time is up. MDARD reminds the public to: • Never apply disinfectants to skin or ingest them. • Follow “directions for use” on the product label. • Never mix different disinfectants. • Keep all people and pets away during application until the product is dry and no odor is present. • Wash hands after using any disinfectant, including surface wipes. • Keep lids tightly closed when not in use. • Follow the label’s precautionary statements and directions for what personal protective equipment you should wear. • Do not stockpile disinfectants. This can result in shortages of critical products needed for emergencies. For additional guidance, visit the EPA website or Michigan.gov/coronavirus. 10-year-old Lake Odessa boy killed in car crash Taylor Owens Staff Writer Speed and alcohol are believed to be a fac­ tor in a crash which led to the death of a 10-year-old Lake Odessa boy at 8:48 p.m. last Friday. The boy was in a vehicle traveling west on Clinton Trail, near Tasker Road in Odessa Township, when the vehicle went off the road and rolled several times, Michigan State Police said. The driver, a 33-year-old man, was taken to Spectrum-Butterworth Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A second pas­ senger, a 9-year-old girl, was taken to the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital in Grand Rapids with non-life-threatening injuries. ^Doctor Universe Grass is always greener ... Dr. Universe: What is inside a blade ofgrass, and why is it green? Green is my favorite color. We really like reading your articles in our newspaper. Luke, 5, Ogden, Utah Dear Luke, I’ve been wondering the same thing lately. Every time I go on walks, I notice new splashes of color. Watching bugs in the grass, I pretend they’re crawling through a jungle. Everything is bright and bursting with green. When I saw your question, I knew Michael Neff would know the answer. Green is his favorite color, too. (In fact, when we talked over video, he wore a green Hawaiian shirt.) Neff researches plants at Washington State University, and he is especially curious about grasses. If you chopped a piece of grass and looked at it with your eyes alone, you might not see much. But if you looked at it under a microscope, you’d see tiny structures containing even tinier parts. All living things — you and grass included — are made of cells. Cells are like little building blocks with different jobs. Every blade of grass is made of millions of them. Plant cells contain a smaller part called a chloroplast. Chloroplasts look like fat, sausage-shaped balloons, Neff said. Chloroplasts have a special job: Making food. Grasses can’t search for food like animals can. So instead, they make it themselves, taking in sunlight and carbon dioxide. “Food for a plant is a combination of sunlight and carbon dioxide together,” Neff said. “And the chloroplast is the factory that turns those two pieces into energy.” But where does the green color come from? Something else inside the chloroplast is responsible: A special pigment called Elaine Garlock The business district is beautiful with three blocks lined with flowering trees. The white blossoms usually last for weeks. The Lake Odessa Arts Commission has kept the plant­ ers filled for months with several versions of seasonal flowers. Several weeks ago, there was a house fire on Jordan Lake Avenue between First Street and Second Street. Now the site has been cleared and straw has been laid over the entire area of the house site. Lots on this block have frontage on the busy street, but the rear boundary is on First Avenue, so most of the garages are on First. The Lakewood News had an item that the VFW will not be conducting the usual Memorial Day observances at Clarksville, Woodland and Lake Odessa. One of the major features has been the participation of the school band. This is impossible this year with schools not in session. Also, the ceremonies Licensed Master Plumber Licensed Journeyman Plumber New construction, remodel, repair, drain cleaning. BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEATERS Same Day Installation License #8110376 Office (269) 948-2248 & Insured Mobile (269) 838-5112 Dr. Universe Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University’s resident scientist and writer at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu or visit her website, askdruniverse .com. would produce a crowd situation. Keeping safe distances would be impractical. John Catt returned home Sunday from Arizona. Our calling lady in Tennessee is still in the South making her daily phone calls to church friends just to keep in touch. Diehard gardeners already have their plots tilled and the first seeds planted, marked by seed packets on stakes. We read that the seed companies have been busy with orders, indi­ cating an increase in home gardening. People have been tending their lawns and landscapes, too. Old-timers considered rhubarb their spring tonic. The rhubarb is growing fast, several inches growth has come in just a week, so most plants are more than a foot high. Time to make a pie or some rhubarb sauce. Neighbors are already playing badminton and tennis as well as playing horseshoes and com hole. Campfires are common. There are many walkers on village streets. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner Glassified ads For Sale Business Services CARRON SPORT AIR BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry Hockey Table. $300.00 OBO. Phone 269-908-1654. KASSON 10FT OAK Pool MICHAEL KINNEY PLUMBING chlorophyll. Your eyes see color based on light. Many different colors make up sunlight, and objects either absorb or reflect thern. When light gets absorbed, you don’t see its color. But when light reflects off objects, including grass, the color reaches your eyes, so that’s what you see. That’s why the sky often looks blue. It’s absorbing all the other colors of light, except blue. The same thing happens with chlorophyll. “Chlorophyll does a very good job of absorbing all colors of light except for green. When we look at the blade of grass, we’re seeing green light being reflected off the blade of grass,” Neff said. But maybe you’ve noticed grass isn’t always green. Depending on the time of year and where you live, different grass grows at different speeds. Here in Washington, most grass grows in the cool spring and fall weather. Spring grass looks especially green because it contains new cells. New cells have tons of chlorophyll, reflecting green light. In the summer and winter, grass might turn brown or yellow. It’s still alive. It just doesn’t have as much chlorophyll. It isn’t putting as much energy into new growth. But when spring returns, so do the ingredients for growth—lots of water, light, and carbon dioxide. The grass takes it all in, making new cells full of chlorophyll. The cycle begins again. Tiny blades sprout. Patches of color creep in. And before you know it, green surrounds you everywhere you look. BRING EVERYTHING Blazing Fast Internet! —— Table, excellent condition. $1,000.00 or OBO. 269-908­ 1654 Sporting Goods 2-YEARTV PRICE GUARANTEE FOR SALE: 8 HP MERCURY 4 STROKE not even broke in OO America'sT°P120 pa^age yet. With stand $1800 firm. Call 269-908-8918 after 4pm. 190 CHANNELS ^forUMos. Including Local Channels! CALL TODAY-For $100 GiftCard Promo Code: DISH100 1 **855-382-2485 ofe-erA?/™. dssh. wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements. Discount for Seniors & Vet­ erans. 269-320-3890. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. AH offers require credit qualification,24-month commitmentwith earlytermination fee and eAutoPay. Prices include Hopper Duo for qualifying customers. Hopper, Hopper w/Sling < Hopper 3 $5/mo. more. Upfront fees may apply based on credit qualification. Y PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 7, 2020 — Page 9 Foundation, partners offer opportunities to give Picnic tables and fire pits await campers at the Yankee Springs Recreation Area's modern campground at Gun Lake. The Michigan DNR announced last week that the current plan is for state campgrounds to open for camping June 22, giving the DNR a little over a month to prepare if the current “Stay Home, Stay Safe” order expires without a hitch May 15. (Photo by Brett Bremer) State campgrounds to remain closed until at least June 21 The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced Thursday that all Michigan state parks campgrounds will be closed through at least June 21. Another way to look at it is, state parks are expecting to be open to campers on June 22. A handful of state park guests were making use of the Yankee Springs Recreation Area’s modem campground at Gun Lake Friday morning, fishing from the dock and shoreline as boats took off from the boat launch across the peninsula. The campground has also become a popular spot for “hikers” looking for steady, even ground to traverse. The Yankee Springs Recreation Area includes the modem campground as well as the rustic campground at Deep Lake, rustic cabins at Long Lake and the Horseman’s equestrian campground - with more than 300 sites/cabins in all. To help slow the spread of the coronavirus and carry out Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s extended ‘Stay Home, Stay Safe’ Executive Order through May 15, the DNR has updated expected opening dates and available ameni­ ties at many of its public outdoor recreation sites and facilities. Most state parks and recreation areas and state-managed trails and boating access sites remain open to provide local opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, but social distancing is key. Federal and state health officials consis­ tently have said that keeping at least six feet away from those outside your household is vital to containing the vims spread. Proposed facility reopening dates are based on the updated stay-at-home executive order that ends May 15 and are staggered to allow for proper preparation. All overnight lodging facilities and shelters are closed through at least June 21, as well as sanitation stations (or dump stations). All Michigan state forest campgrounds are closed through at least June 9. Dispersed camping on public lands is closed through at least May 15. State campgrounds will not be able to honor camping reservations prior to June 21. Camping and overnight lodging reservations for dates between May 15 and June 21 can be changed to later in the season or reservations will be canceled for a full refund. Campers scheduled for those dates may request to change reservation dates to later in the season (pending availability within the reservation booking window) and earn a free night for that time period. No reservation fees or cancellation/modification fees will be charged. Reservation holders who want this option must contact the call center at 800-447-2757 by May 15 at 8 p.m. Campers may also choose a full refund to automatically be applied to original payment method, including the reservation fee. Reservation holders do not need to take any action; all remaining reservations will auto­ matically be canceled after May 15, and an email will be sent when the refund is complet­ ed. No cancellation/modification fees will be charged. In addition, reservation holders whose camping reservations for stays between March 23 and May 15 were canceled due to CO VID­ 19 are eligible for a free night of camping on reservations made later in the season. Those who want to make a reservation or have already booked one for a later date should call 800-447-2757 by May 15 at 8 p.m. and have their canceled booking number handy. Reservations extending beyond June 21 will be changed to a June 22 arrival date and canceled nights will automatically be refund­ ed to the original payment method. Shelter reservations between May 15 and June 21 will automatically be canceled. Reservation holders for those dates will receive full refunds to the original payment method, including the reservation fee paid at the time reservations were made. No cancella­ tion/modification fees will be charged. Questions can be directed to the reservation call center at 800-447-2757. Bathroom buildings and hand-washing sta­ tions are closed through at least June 3, although those facilities associated with campgrounds will remain closed until the campground opens. Trash service also has been halted during the same time frame at many state parks, and park patrons are asked please leave the sites as they found them and to bring bags to carry out trash. In order to minimize face-to-face interac­ tions and the exchange of money, the Recreation Passport requirement for vehicle entry to state parks and recreation areas, state forest campgrounds and state-managed boat­ ing access sites has been suspended until at least two weeks after the stay-at-home order ends. Wilkins pulls pike from water Keedan Wilkins shows off a pike he caught at Bellevue damn on Tuesday, April 28. Barry Community Foundation is responding to meet the needs of education and distance learning, basic needs and family supports, economy and small business, health access and protection of frontline workers by promoting #GiveBarryCounty. Along with taking part in a May 5 version of Giving Tuesday, the foundation and partners have d created an ongoing opportunity to give locally, BCF executive director Bonnie Gettys said. “At a time when we are all experiencing the pandemic, generosity is what brings people of all races, faiths and political views together across the globe,” she said. “Generosity gives everyone power to make a positive change in the lives of others and is a fundamental value anyone can act on. It’s a day for everyone around the world to stand together and give back in all ways, no matter who or where we are.” Barry Community Foundation and several community partners are committing a dollarfor-dollar match to any of the funds at the foundation that are responding to this crisis. “From education and economy to health access and basic needs, we know that the impact of COVID-19 has been traumatic,” Gettys said. First, BCF, Barry County Christian School, Hastings Area Schools, Delton Kellogg Schools, Maple Valley Schools and Thomapple Kellogg Schools along with MEI/ Barry County Telephone have been working to address a lack of access to broadband. Schools have placed wireless access points where families may connect to download homework as an option for those who do not have internet at home. Another option is that MEI has found a way to connect the most vulnerable families who live in their service areas with “education only” access to their homes. While it is dependent on the location of the home, and it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, it is a benefit for many. The Education Matters Fund and its donors are paying for the cost of installation of the hardware necessary to bring the signal directly into the home. This allows the child to receive online instruction that they may not otherwise have access to. The Education Matters Fund also supports other costs associated with the expense of placing the wireless access points, and possible future outlays, such as an increase in printing costs for families who choose the paper packet option for learning in this environment. Secondly, the Barry County Revolving Loan Fund, the Route 66 Business District Loan Fund and the Barry Business Bridge Fund are all addressing unfunded needs of local small businesses. The first two funds referenced are loan funds and have provided $82,000 in low-interest loans. All applications are accepted through the Barry County Economic Alliance/Chamber of Commerce and vetted by a group of bankers, board members and retired small business owners. The loans are intended to revolve back into the community when other crises occur to support our small business community. The Route 66 Loan Fund was created by the Route 66 Nashville Business District. The first round of loans was given to members and partners in good standing since the money contributed to the fund was raised collectively by members and partners. They are preparing to offer the next round of funds to the Nashville community. More details will follow. “This is truly a time for the business district to step forward and live out its mission statement of local businesses supporting one another,” Route 66 Leader Emily Mater said. “We want to support Nashville businesses today so that they can continue to be there in the future.” The purpose of the Barry Business Bridge Fund is to make grants to small businesses that need access to a smaller amount of capital to get through - hence the bridge. Chamber staff has been calling all members and listening to the fears and need to open safely and quickly. The new president of the chamber and Economic Development Alliance, Jennifer Heinzman, heard what they said, and the Barry Business Bridge Fund was bom. “We realize the pandemic has negatively affected everyone, but we have made it our mission to help as many Barry County businesses as possible,” Heinzman said. “We hope the community joins us in supporting our local businesses to keep them alive and well.” Third, the Barry County Health Access Fund is accepting grant applications through May 15 for organizations that provide access to health care for Barry County residents. The fund was created when the Barry-Eaton District Health Department Health Plan became redundant to the health care system after Cherry Health opened its federally qualified health clinic in Hastings. Funds that remained after the closure was split between the Barry Community Foundation and the Eaton County Community Foundation. Due to all of the changes happening, the Barry Health Access Fund will be extending the due date for grant applications to May 15. “We have extended the grant application due date in hopes that organizations will be able to address COVID-19 implications and concerns they have for their clients and employees,” program director Amy Murphy said. Finally, the Extreme Community Needs Fund was created after the financial crisis in 2008 to deal with housing foreclosure and family bankruptcy issues that arose from that. The ftmd provided relief for items not covered by other organizations or government agencies. From mortgage assistance to food and utilities, this fund responded rapidly to resident needs. For this particular event, the United Way is seeing more and more families needing assistance with food. The backlog of the unemployment payments due to the number of claims in such a short period created an abundance of people who, by no fault of theirs, are suffering. “We understand the dilemma and strive to meet not only the need of food, but of other items that are needed to keep your family secure,” Lani Forbes, Barry County United Way executive director, said. “People think of basic needs as food and shelter. In these times, basic needs are also about setting up a COVID-only ambulance and getting personal protection equipment for our frontline workers. “This fund has allowed that and more to be accomplished,” she said, adding that other needs will arise as the pandemic unfolds. “Also concerning is the number of families who are struggling because they have yet to receive their unemployment as well as trying to find childcare to remain employed now that school is not in session.” “#GiveBarryCounty has been given several financial gifts that will match gifts to these funds, up to $45,000 collectively,” Gettys said. “We know that you have many choices to give, and thankfully the CARES Act will give you a tax credit of $300 per 2020 tax return - above the line. This works if you do not itemize and is a credit to the amount that you would pay. So, with this generosity and the tax credit, your $300 investment can return over 100 percent to your community - and in this turbulent time, it’s hard to find returns like this.” Those interested in joining #GiveBarryCounty effort may visit barrycf. org and contribute to any or all of the four sectors of focus: Education and distance learning, basic needs and family supports, economy and small business, health access and protection of frontline workers. “This is a great three-fer,” vice chair Diane Gaertner said when she heard about the opportunity. “You can help others who need your help right now. And you can get a tax credit for yourself. And your gift will be matched. Try this now and enjoy three times the satisfaction knowing you made a positive impact in people’s lives today.” Legislature sues governor over emergency powers Bridge Magazine Republican legislators filed suit against Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on Wednesday alleging her attempt to unilateral­ ly extend emergency declarations amid the COVID-19 crisis is illegal, “absurd,” uncon­ stitutional and “nonsensical.” GOP leaders are asking the Michigan Court of Claims for an immediate ruling declaring that Whitmer’s emergency orders, including her stay-at-home and business closure man­ dates, are “invalid and unenforceable” because the Legislature did not extend her emergency authority. They say a ruling of that kind would require the Democratic governor to work with the Republican-led Legislature on plans to reopen the economy, a collaborative approach Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey and House Speaker Lee Chatfield contend the governor has so far refused. “It’s a sad day for our state, because we truly should all be working together,” Chatfield, R-Levering, said in a press confer­ ence at the Michigan Capitol. “We believe this is a necessary step to ensure that millions of people in our state have their voices heard.” Whitmer’s office called the lawsuit “anoth­ er partisan game that won’t distract the gover­ nor” and said her “No. 1 priority is saving lives,” an apparent callback to Shirkey’s recent suggestion his top priority is a petition drive to try and repeal an emergency authority law. “She’s making decisions based on science and data, not political or legal pressure,” said spokesperson Tiffany Brown, who noted the governor is working with a team of business, labor and health advisers on a plan to reopen the economy in phases, by region and indus­ try. “Moving forward, the governor will con­ tinue to listen to medical experts and put the health and safety of Michiganders first.” GOP leaders allege Whitmer violated a 1976 law requiring legislative approval to extend emergency and disaster declarations beyond 28 days. The suit contends that, by continuing to issue and enforce executive orders, she also violated the separation of powers clause of the Michigan Constitution and encroached on legislative authority by effectively passing laws. Emergency status allows Whitmer to con­ tinue revising and issuing executive orders to respond to the pandemic. When the Legislature denied her requested extension last week, Whitmer issued a series of new emergency declarations and said she has clear authority to do so under a separate 1945 law that does not require legislative approval. The Emergency Management Act of 1976 includes a provision stating that it does not “limit, modify or abridge the authority of the governor to proclaim a state of emergen­ cy” under the Emergency Powers of Governor Act of 1945. “I am not encouraging any civil disobedience or mass chaos at this point but I think these orders are legally questionable. That’s why we are going to court.” Mike Shirkey, Senate Majority Leader But the 1945 law, reportedly inspired by a Detroit race riot two years prior, was designed to facilitate responses to local emer­ gencies, not the kind of statewide emergency Whitmer continues to assert in her response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the lawsuit con­ tends. The statute gives Whitmer the authority to act “within” the state, not “throughout” it, said attorneys from the Troy-based Bush Seyferth law firm who are representing the Legislature in the case, along with House and Senate legal counsel. The law also references areas, zones and sections, which suggests it was intended for localized responses, they said. Allowing Whitmer to proceed without leg­ islative approval would place “no meaningful limits on the governor’s power at all” and is therefore “nonsensical,” according to the complaint. And letting her simply issue a new declaration every four weeks would produce “absurd results.” “Then a state of emergency or disaster can exist forever, as does her power to rule the state via executive order,” attorneys said. “That is a staggering abuse of power.” Two outside attorneys questioned whether the Legislature had any legal recourse to chal­ lenge Whitmer in court, but neither immedi­ ately replied to requests for comment on the new GOP suit. The governor’s “statutory authority seems to me at least, crystal clear on its face,” John Pirich, a elections lawyer who has worked for Republicans but backed Whitmer in the 2016 election, said last week. The pandemic is “the equivalent to a wartime situation,” he added. “These are extraordinary circumstances.” Given the magnitude of the case and pan­ demic, the lawsuit is expected to end up before the Michigan Supreme Court, which means the Legislature could incur significant costs as it retains private attorneys. “Personally, I don’t start any lawsuits unless I’m willing to take it all the way,” said Shirkey, R-Clarklake, who told reporters he thinks the Legislature has a “responsibility” to challenge Whitmer’s continued authority to act unilaterally. Whitmer’s emergency declarations allow her to continue issuing executive orders amid the pandemic, including her stay-at-home mandate she has relaxed in recent weeks to allow for the construction industry, landscap­ ers and other outdoor businesses to resume operations. Retailers that sell non-essential items are now allowed to operate for curbside pickup only. Republicans had requested those changes but say Whitmer could have acted sooner, and they maintain she has not explained to them how she is making critical decisions that impact residents across the state. As of Tuesday, COVID-19 had killed 4,179 people in Michigan, and the state had con­ firmed 44,397 cases since March 10. The public health crisis has led to an economic crisis, with more than 1.2 million state work­ ers applying for unemployment benefits since mid-March. Since the Legislature refused to extend Whitmer’s emergency declaration last week, Chatfield has called executive orders like her stay-home mandate “legally questionable,” but Attorney General Dana Nessel on Tuesday told local police to continue enforcing the orders. “Regardless of what you may have heard,” they are “valid and enforceable,” Nessel said in a memo. Chatfield said Wednesday he is encourag­ ing residents to “exercise reason” and use their best judgement about compliance with Whitmer’s orders. “I am not encouraging any civil disobedi­ ence or mass chaos at this point,” he said, “but I think these orders are legally questionable. That’s why we are going to court.” Shirkey said Monday the Legislature was unlikely to sue Whitmer until next week and announced plans for a petition drive to over­ turn the 1945 law, which he called “probably the No. 1 priority right now.” But he and Chatfield said Wednesday they filed the suit now in hopes of swift resolution. Senate Minority Leader Jim Ananich, D-Flint, made clear his caucus does not sup­ port the lawsuit and wants to focus on “find­ ing solutions for Michigan families and work­ ers.” “We are appalled that those across the aisle are choosing a global pandemic as the time to pick political fights with the governor instead of focusing on what we can do to help the people of our state,” Ananich said in a state­ ment. House Minority Leader Christine Greig, D-Farmington Hills, accused Republicans of “partisan political theatre, dripping with hypocrisy” and called the lawsuit a waste of time. “As Michiganders are stretching their dol­ lars and worrying about their livelihood in the face of a global pandemic, legislative Republicans are distracting time and attention away from the state’s response to COVID-19 and squandering scarce taxpayer resources in another dubious attempt to undermine efforts to address this unprecedented public health crisis,” Greig said in a statement. �Page 10 — Thursday, May 7, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Construction resumes on tracks and fields A worker installs a mobile office in the parking lot on the Delton Kellogg school grounds Wednesday morning, one of the first steps in construction projects that will eventually include remade baseball and softball fields and the installation of an artificial turf football field at the high school. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Sports Editor In a more perfect world, a COVID-19 free world where construction projects went on uninhibited by virus concerns, Hastings High School senior Erin Dalman would be working on her form in the high jump this afternoon in an effort to defend Interstate-8 Athletic Conference and regional championships from a year ago. Each stride up to the bar would land on a fresh layer of track surface installed around the length of Baum Stadium at Johnson Field. In a more perfect world, a COVID-19 free world where the weather had been just perfect ts spring, the Hastings varsity girls’ tennis team would be hosting a non-conference dual with the Thomapple Kellogg girls this after­ noon. There is a chance Saxon sophomore Brooke Youngs would be hitting her stride in a second season as her team’s top singles player on the recently cured surface of the school’s brand new tennis courts. Instead, May 7 will go down as the day that work could officially resume on the projects going on at Hastings High School, Delton Kellogg High School and other sites across the state of Michigan. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed executive order 2020-70 Friday (May 1), an order to allow the May 7 resumption of some types of work that present a very low risk of infection, including construction, real-estate activities, and work that is traditionally and primarily performed outdoors. Last Friday’s announcement was good enough for some companies to put their employees back to work even before that 12:01 a.m. May 7 restart. Some work began in Hastings Monday, May 4. “Right this very instant, the old track is all but peeled off and it’s in a big pile. They’re hauling the old truck away in dump trucks literally right now,” Hastings High School athletic director Mike Goggins said Wednesday morning from the construction site inside Baum Stadium at Johnson Field. “The tennis court lay-out is nearing comple­ tion. There is just a little more cement that has to be poured around some areas where Consumers Energy hasn’t been able to work. They just showed up today. I’m staring at the guy. It is the first time I have seen him since January.” “At the tennis courts, the guys are digging the holes right now to put new nets in. The tennis court fence is now started. That crew has been here on and off this week and will be in full force here within the next two days. It all, literally is just now back up and rolling.” There is one last section of concrete to pour near the tennis courts - part of a ten-foot spec­ tator sidewalk that will line the south end of the tennis courts. It is a project that has just been waiting for Consumers Energy. An elec­ trical box and three power poles need to be moved. The hope when the construction projects in Hastings were planned was the new track surface would be ready for the April 17 Hastings Invitational. That date would have only forced the high school track and field teams to move a March dual with Coldwater to the Cardinals’ home track. Delton Kellogg’s high school track and field teams had planned to have all their home meets before May so the installation of a new artificial turf football field could begin May 4. That projected is now slated to begin today. “We’re real excited about that,” Delton Kellogg High School athletic director Mike Mohn said. “The community really stepped up and we appreciate them wanting to do that. That field has been in disrepair for years, just from a safety standpoint. It will look really nice from the road too. It’ll give our kids something to brag about, which will be kind of cool. That starts on the 7th.” Improvements to the Hastings and Delton Kellogg high school baseball and softball fields are also planned for this summer and beyond. The largest of those projects is at the Delton Kellogg High School varsity baseball diamond, between the football field and the softball diamond. The Panthers’ baseball team was set to get this spring season in, but play the entire 2021 campaign on the road as con­ struction progressed. Those improvements were slated to begin June 1, but those projects may not start until later in the summer. “We’re going to totally strip the (baseball) infield, right down to the dirt and start from scratch. They’ll redo all of that. The outfield fences will be moved in, so they won’t be like the old Comerica Park (in Detroit) with a 460foot shot to Centerfield,” Mohn said, exagger­ ating only by about 30-feet or so. “We’ll be moving those in. It will be as little bit more of a uniform outfield fence, and a little bit more apropos I think.” The softball infield will see improvements as well, and both baseball and softball fields will have sections of the outfield raised where water tends to collect. There are also plans to move some of the dirt removed from the foot­ ball field to the high school soccer field across M-43 to help deal with the water issues there. The softball field should be ready to play on in the spring of 2021. The Delton soccer team will be able to play games on the updat­ ed grass field or on the new turf field. “The kids are pumped up. I’ve got a picture of the lay-out of it in my office,” Mohn said. “The kids would come in all the time and say ‘is that that it will look like?’ ‘“Yep, that’s what it will look like,”’ Mohn would answer. “It will be a nice little splash for our school.” The projects at Delton Kellogg come as part of district-wide improvements thanks to a May 2019 bond proposal that passed to gener­ ate more than $23 million. Much of the funds Piles of old track material await removal from Baum Stadium at Johnson Field in Hastings Wednesday morning where the high school track is receiving a facelift along with other improvements to the tennis courts and baseball and softball fields. (Photo by Brett Bremer) for the athletic projects in Hastings came from a gift of $821,000 from Larry and Earlene Baum and the Baum Family Foundation which was announced last August. “We are grateful for the governor’s com­ mitment to protecting working people and their families from the spread of COVID-19,” said Pat Devlin, Secretary Treasurer of the Michigan Building and Construction Trades Council in a Friday press release from the state of Michigan. “Our dedicated building tradesmen and women are ready to get back to work, and we’re glad the governor has taken steps today to help ensure their safety. We are excited to continue working with Governor Whitmer as she continues to take action on behalf of working families.” Under the order, construction sites must adopt a set of best practices to protect their workers from infection. “The vast majority of Michiganders are still doing their part to protect themselves and their families from COVID-19. That’s good, but we must keep it up,” said Governor Whitmer in Friday’s press release. “As part of our MI Safe Start Plan, we are bringing busi­ ness and labor leaders together to ensure that while we lift some restrictions on the previous Stay Home, Stay Safe order, we are also pro­ tecting workers and their families from the spread of this virus. I want to be clear: we must all continue to stay home and stay safe as much as possible. If we all keep doing our part, we can reduce the risk of a second wave and re-engage our economy safely and respon­ sibly.” The governor’s Stay Home, Stay Safe order remains in effect until May 15. Hastings has some other smaller projects going on. The varsity softball field is getting a new warning track. There will also be improvements to the infield of both the varsi­ ty softball and baseball fields. Much of the fencing around the Hastings tennis courts was still in good shape when it was removed. Some of that fencing will go to provided added protection at the Johnson Field varsity baseball diamond where a sixfoot fence currently stretches from the back­ stop to the dugouts. Spectator bleachers will be much better protected with the taller fenc­ ing“Had this not happened, the track would have been all done, the fencing would have been all done, the cement work would have been done, the landscaping would have been done and we would have probably been sit­ ting waiting for nice weather to paint the ten­ nis courts,” Goggins said. “That is what would have been.” National 24 Hour Challenge start pushed back two months Barry County will see fewer bikers on the roads on Father’s Day weekend this June. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the 2020 National 24 Hour Challenge has been resched­ uled to August 22-23,2020 in Middleville. The National 24 Hour Challenge is the largest 24-hour personal-best bicycling event in the United States. Since 1983, the National 24 Hour Challenge has attracted hundreds of bicycle riders from across the United States and internationally to achieve their personal best mileage. In the past 37 years, over 5,000 bicyclists have participated in the National 24 Hour Challenge, riding a total of over 2,000,000 miles. In other words, it is a combination of travel and crowds - a pair of things highly discour­ aged as the world works its way through the COVID-19 pandemic. National 24 Hour Challenge Executive If you feel nervous or unsure about going to your doctor's office, emergency room or the hospital, remember we have many protocols in place to keep everyone safe. Chronic conditions can worsen if left unmanaged. So, too, can new health problems. Your Bronson providers are here for you and are safely scheduling office visits, surgeries, procedures and video visits so you can get the essential care you need. Call your provider or Bronson Care Advisors at (269) 341-7788. (©BRONSON The start of the 2019 National 24 Hour Challenge is delayed by a couple minutes because of a traffic accident in Middleville. It was announced Friday that the start of the 2020 event will be delayed by a couple months, with the event moving from Father’s Day weekend in June to Aug. 22-23. (File photo) Director Gary M. Goscenski said “due to the uncertainty and unpredictability of the coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic, our board determined that it would not be safe or feasi­ ble to hold the 2020 National 24 Hour Challenge on June 20-21, 2020 as originally scheduled.” While the event has been rescheduled, Goscenski cautioned, “although we are about four months away from August 22-23, we would like to think positively that things will have returned to the ‘new normal’ by then. But there are no guarantees and safety is our number one priority. Our board will meet once again on June 21 to confirm that we will be able to safely hold the event on August 22-23. If, when our board meets on June 21, the board determines it will be unsafe to hold the event on August 22-23, the National 24 Hour Challenge will be cancelled for 2020.” For now, National 24 Hour Challenge starts at 8:00 a.m. sharp Saturday, August 22, and finishes at 8:00 a.m. Sunday, August 23 at Thomapple Kellogg Middle School. The rid­ ers will first complete multiple circuits of a 50-mile day loop on low-traffic roads in Barry County. At night, riders will complete multi­ ple circuits of a 7.6-mile night loop on the roads bordering Thomapple Kellogg Middle School. Over 150 volunteers provide support and services to the riders throughout the weekend. The current National 24 Hour Challenge records are: 516.7 miles, held by Jessop Keene of Ellsworth, Wisconsin and 447.1 miles, held by Amy Miller of Holland, Michigan. Approximately, 300 riders partici­ pate each year, ranging in age from 18 to 80. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-05-14.pdf 8a4c641a5aa9371c6aa721ce1ae964c0 PDF Text Text Questions loom over school budget planning Every job is essential See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 8 MHSAA continues to adjust tourney seeding See Story on Page 10 804879110187 1070490102590503809149058113421 Thursday, May 14, 2020 VOLUME 167, No. 20 No Barry County Fair this year Sixth cancellation in the fair’s history; first time a pandemic is the reason Luke Froncheck Staff Writer The Barry County Fair will not take place this year. The decision was made Saturday evening when the fair board voted to cancel the fair in its entirety. It’s an unusual occurrence in the history of this longstanding community tradition: It’s only the sixth time since the fair began in 1851 that the event has been canceled. All the other times the fair was canceled had to do with the fund balance. The first cancellation came in the late 1890s when the board simply ran out of money, fair board president Dennis Redman said. The next four cancelations happened during the Great Depression when funding was short. This time, the obstacles presented by COVID-19 were insurmountable. “It’s sad, but it is what it is - we can’t change it,” Redman said. “The ball was roll­ ing, and we just couldn’t stop it.” Up until Saturday night, he said they were doing everything they could to try and figure out a way to make it work, but there was just too much uncertainty. “The fair board did not make this decision in haste,” said Heather Wing, chairwoman of the Barry County Board of Commissioners. “Many components of the fair were taken into consideration. The health and safety of our vQlunt^eys. participants and community is our top priority. We understand that this is a large part of our summer and will affect our community, sponsors, vendors, and fami­ lies.” The decision was not easy, but it was unanimous, Redman said. “One of our mem­ bers told me back in February that COVID­ 19 may affect our fair. But I never thought it would. He was right and here we are.” While the cancellation negates any poten­ tial revenue the fair board would have received this year, Redman said that loss of income does not affect the ability come back next year stronger than ever. Even though the decision to cancel the fair “The fair board did not make this decision in haste. Many components of the fair were taken into consideration. The health and safety of our volunteers, participants and community is our top priority. We understand that this is a large part of our summer and will affect our community, sponsors, vendors, and families.” Heather Wing, Barry County Board of Commissioners chairwoman was made Saturday, all 4-H programming including its involvement with anM fair - was canceled April 2 when Michigan State University announced that all face-to-face 4-H programming would be suspended through Sept. 1. “I looked for the release I got from MSU extension several weeks ago that had can­ celed all of the in-person student contact-type meetings, all of the camps, workshops, all of the face-to-face 4-H meetings that happen through Michigan State Extension,” Wing said at T®sc®y’s county comifissioners’ meeting. “ ... this really, really hurt any of the local fairs in trying to do something for the kids. “This is a huge economic impact to our community.” Although there is no face-to-face pro­ gramming, 4-H students still have plenty to do. Kathy Pennington, Barry County 4-H program coordinator, said her members are still raising and caring for their animals. They also have multiple virtual education opportunities coming up. See FAIR, page 3 PRICE 750; Camp Algonquin project should be ready when campers are Brett Bremer Sports Editor Mama robin is still startled by the sound of footsteps. Cranes, trucks, skid-steers and welders are just the soundtrack to her spring. Construction noises through the trees aren’t typically enough to justify leaving her four blue eggs in the nest tucked behind a downspout on the sign for cabin four at the YMCA of Barry County’s Camp Algonquin. Footsteps on the new decking and stairway down to the lake however are unusual. The end is in sight for the roughly $1.2 million improvement project at Camp Algonquin on the shoreline of Algonquin Lake between Hastings and Middleville. Workers lifted three roughly 5,500-pound log trusses over and around the roof of the main lodge with a truck crane and down the other side throughout the morning Tuesday, setting them in place to create the pavilion atop the new boathouse which is one of the centerpieces of the project. Each truss is about 50 feet long and 12 feet tall. A trailer filled with more massive log supports arrived just as the last truss was being secured to the crane for liftoff. The main lodge which was a part of major improvements to the camp in 2000 was designed by the same architectural firm that worked on this new update Slocum Associates, Inc. The current improvements include the 20-foot by 40 foot boathouse and pavilion that includes storage and program space. CopperRock Construction was hard at work on that project Tuesday. There is a new retain­ ing wall stretching the length of the water­ front and an improved swim area, new stairs down to the waterfront, boardwalk, foot trail and a new fishing platform. It should all be completed sometime in June. The project has been designed to improve safety at the water­ front and offer expanded programming oppor­ tunities for campers. A couple neighbors watched from along the shoreline Tuesday, as well as fishermen in a bass boat across the water on the sunny, crisp morning. Earth moving on the lake front began in August of 2019. The new retaining wall started to stretch across the lakefront by See CAMP, page 10 The third of three 5,500-pound log trusses hangs over its final position on the Algonquin Lake side of the new boathouse/pavilion at the YMCA of Barry County’s Camp Algonquin Tuesday morning. Improvements to the camp, which began last August, are expected to be completed sometime in June. (Photo by Brett Bremer) USDA approves $11.8 million award for broadband expansion Greg Chandler Staff Writer Efforts to expand broadband service across Barry County received a major boost Wednesday, as Delton-based Barry County Services Co. received approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for $11.8 million of funding toward expanding its fiber-based service. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue The thoughts of a grateful community were reflected in the sentiments expressed. Little lights shine for the frontline Luminaries lined a portion of Green Street in Hastings Tuesday night near the entrance to Spectrum Health Pennock Hospital in a show of support for the hospital’s health care workers. St. Rose of Lima Parish Deacon Jim Mellen wrote in a note to parish members that the effort was to “say thank you to all the staff for the compas­ sionate care that they give to the patients and families in our community.” Mellen invited church members to go to the hospital to see the luminaries and, in doing so, honor the health care workers there. The Pennock staff has “stood on the front lines during the epidemic on a daily basis and risked so much to do so,” Mellen said. The luminaries are “an appropriate way for us to show our love, care and respect for what they have given to our community.” As the dusk faded to night, the flameless electric candles in each luminary provided a warm glow. (Photos by Scott Harmsen) See page 3 for more photos announced the award, consisting of a $5.9 million grant and $5.9 million in loans, during a virtual press conference originating from Washington, D.C. The award is part of USDA’s first round of investments in the $600 million , ReConnect Program, an effort to expand broadband service to unserved and underserved rural areas across the country. Barry County Services, whose subsidiary companies include MEI Inc. and Barry County Telephone Co., was one of two Michigan broadband providers to receive funding Wednesday. -> “These providers are going to deliver new; opportunities for precision [agriculture], for distance learning, telemedicine, advanced manufacturing and opening new markets for € See BROADBAND, page T Key to this year’s budget: Taking a ‘what don’t I need to spend’ philosophy Savanah Kaechele Contributing Writer Hastings City Manager Jerry Czarnecki collapsed in his office at City Hall Monday and was taken to the hospital via ambulance. On Wednesday, Czarnecki was home. He’ll be taking it easy for a couple of days, he said, adding that doctors at Spectrum Pennock Hospital put him through a battery of tests “and everything came back good. No underlying condition caused it.” He was even tested for COVID-19 and that test came back negative, he added. On Tuesday, Mayor Dave Tossava said the situation for city government is very stress­ ful right now. Czarnecki has been working long hours and shouldering a lot, he said. Adding to the difficulties, they recently heard from the state about a 50-percent ‘We need to plug as many holes in our boat as we can without completely shutting us down.’ Jane Saurman during city budget workshop reduction in funding. “Now, all of a sudden, we don’t know what’s going to happen,” Tossava said. Plus, with City Hall closed and staff mem­ bers rotating on and off as needed, there just isn’t the level of support they would typical­ ly have, Tossava said. “It’s hard to get any kind of work done,” the mayor said, adding that, in his opinion, remote meetings don’t work “worth a darn.” The city manager, in his first year in that role during a global pandemic that has shut down the economy, is getting a crash course. “There’s no way to prepare for it,” Czarnecki said, “except doing it.” After going through a battery of tests Tuesday, Czarnecki said today, “I’m feeling OK.” The former teacher called Monday’s epi­ sode “a bounce that I missed on the trampo­ line.” “The funny thing,” he added, “is I retired See BUDGET, page 6 �Page 2 — Thursday, May 14, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Distance learning especially difficult for band program Freshman Abby Barton practices on the marimba in preparation for next marching season. Savanah Kaechele Contributing Writer Distance learning has become the norm in the final months of the 2019-20 school year. But, no matter how normal this learning method becomes, not being in the classroom presents challenges. For the Hastings Area Schools band program, distance learning has been especially difficult. Jennifer Ewers and Spencer White, the Hastings band directors for sixth through 12th grades, have faced that difficulty with some 365 students in the band program. “It’s hard to do distance learning band without a band. It’s a team activity,” Ewers said. “While the students can work on their skills at home on their own on their instruments, it is not the same as playing in a group every day. I think our students all miss making music together and miss each other.” White said encouraging students through this time has been difficult. “There is no personal interaction, one-onone discussion, and also they are missing out on some of the most exciting parts of the year,” he said. Distance learning has been a challenge for Ewers mainly because of the lack of personal interaction. “To be honest, it is really difficult. Teachers become teachers to interact with the students and make a positive difference in their lives. I Jove my job, and I love teaching students not just musical skills and skills on their instrument, but how to be good people to each other and how to work as a team. I love seeing the growth from sixth grade to seventh, eighth and all the way to their senior year. “Right now, when I’m recording a video, I’m just staring at a camera with no interaction back. Additionally, I’m sending out information on how to count rhythms, or how to do a skill on their instrument, but I am not tfiere checking to make sure they understood Eighth-grader Riley Shults plays his trumpet toward the setting sun. Sam Randall, a junior, normally plays the quad drums right side up in the marching band. it or that they even look at the video or packet that was sent home,” she said. “No matter how fun I try to make the content I send home, I’m not enjoying this, so I’m sure the students aren’t either. There just isn’t anything that can take the place of the classroom.” Even though the band is having a hard time not being able to practice as a team, Ewers and White are trying to make the best of distance learning for the students. “We are doing our best to show support to Sixth-grader Maddie Chipman hasn’t been playing percussion long but is constantly working on her skills. the students and to our community. We have our packets, emails, videos all there to help grow the students in their musical journey. We have also been trying to put out lots of positive things over social media,” White said. Starting in mid-March when schools were first closed temporarily, Ewers and White were sending emails to give instruction to band students. Although each grade level has different skills they are learning, all grades have a band book, which Ewers and White have been encouraging the students to work through. Along with the band books, the emails sent out include YouTube links for the students to watch technique videos and engage in play-along videos filmed by Ewers. “Our assignments are just guidelines on what they could do each week. Many students will play their instruments every day, all day, out of pure enjoyment. Some students will just do what we are asking. Some students probably haven’t gotten their instruments out of their case since March,” Ewers said. The toughest part with distance learning is that everyone’s home life and circumstance is different, Ewers said. School-owned equipment was sent home to many band students, but having a place to practice may be difficult for some. “Some students don’t have anywhere to practice for a variety of reasons: It’s too loud; parents are trying to work from home, too; other siblings are trying to share a space, etc.,” she said. “I just hope they are playing out of enjoyment and know that it’s OK if they can’t. We will pick up right where we left off when we get back in August. I don’t want band to be something they’re stressing over when they have so many other classes right now that need focus in order to advance. Music should bring enjoyment and enrichment to their lives and not stress in these unprecedented times.” Another disappointment for the band is accepting the canceled performances. These performances are a huge part of band, and each is important. “We really miss every performance opportunity for all of our ensembles,” Ewers said. “Our students, and us, love performing, and it’s hard to pick just one disappointment.” For White, the cancelation of five significant spring events stand out the most. The high school and middle school spring concert and A tuba next to the river is not an everyday sight, but one provided here by sopho­ more Brandon Darling. awards ceremonies, the Concert in the Hayfield, graduation, the Thomapple Jazz Festival and “The Little Mermaid,” the spring high school musical for which opening night also was closing night. All of these have significant meaning to many of the band members, teachers and local residents, he said. “The Little Mermaid,” in particular, was an especially difficult loss not just for band members, who were able to play in the pit for the one performance. “We did get to have opening night, and we are extremely thankful for that,” he said. “It was such a fabulous show - by far the best one we have produced here in Hastings in recent history. The financial loss that the musical has taken will be difficult to overcome.” Winter months bring the band’s first concert cycle. Just before the schools closed for the remainder of the school year, all bands had just finished this concert cycle and received straight Division 1 ratings, the highest rating, for the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association District Band Festival, Ewers said. “When in-school sessions were dismissed in early March, we had just started music for our spring concerts for all of our bands. These included some more challenging pieces as well as some fun, light-hearted pieces.” These spring concerts, including the annual end-of-the-year celebration and award ceremonies, were canceled, along with various other performance opportunities such as the jazz festival, the Memorial Day Parade, and the Concert in the Hayfield, a truly unique event for the community and the band program. Band students didn’t get the opportunity to show the skills learned throughout the year. The sixth-graders were able to perform only twice this year. “Our sixth-grade band was one of the best sixth-grade bands we had had in a long time, and they were advancing quickly in all areas,” Ewers said. “We were a bit disappointed that we didn’t get a chance to show off their skills that they worked on each day in class by the time we got to the end-of-the-year concert for them in May.” Among all of the cancelations was a Gilmore Event, which included the band playing alongside pianist Alpin Hong as part of the Gilmore Keyboard Festival. “The High School Symphonic Band was preparing a worked called ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ by George Gershwin, which was a piano concerto, meaning a focus on a solo piano performer. Hastings was selected to host a Gilmore Event with piano artist Alpin Hong to perform alongside the high school symphonic band - a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” she said. “The piece was very challenging and was going to take significant and detailed practice. This event was supposed to happen at our spring concert in the Hastings Performing Continued next page �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 14, 2020 — Page 3 Little lights shine for the frontline Normally a trumpet player, eighth-grader Michael Foster plays cymbals in the drum­ line. His sister likes to be around him practicing, even though his instrument is “very loud.” Janine Dalman gets a quick photo of a favorite before the sun set Tuesday. From previous page Arts Center on Thursday, April 30.” This spring concert also serves as an awards ceremony for the high school band. Included in these awards are scholarships and recognition for the seniors, Ewers said. Not only did the seniors not get an awards ceremony, but they also missed out on their final high school performance at graduation. “We have heard that graduation will happen,” she said. “We are not sure how the band involvement will look just yet.” Graduation is one of the most exciting nights for the seniors, White said. “For the band seniors to finally get to march into the gym while their band family is playing ‘Pomp and Circumstance’ for them is always a special moment,” he said. In an email to the students last month, Ewers and White acknowledged the seniors and their success in band over the years. “Our hearts break for our seniors. [We] don’t even have the words right now to express the loss,” they wrote in the joint email. “We are so thankful for your seven years of dedication to the band program. Each and every one of you have been pivotal in our successes. We share many great memories, have had lots of laughs and celebration, worked on some challenging projects and had rehearsals in the rain and a parade in the snow! “You all grew up right before our eyes as not just great leaders and performers in the band, but incredibly successful in athletics and academics, overall ... [We] just wish we had one more time, one more performance, even just one more rehearsal rep, to play together.” Although there have been many complications and disappointments for the band, band members are looking forward to getting back to class in August. For next year’s marching band, exact numbers and instrument selections are needed to place each student in the show, Ewers said. “We are still needing responses from some students, but right now we are settling in close to 150 students in the high school marching band next year. That is up from about 140 students we had this year,” she added. They are projecting to have around 375 students next year. Nearly every band will have higher numbers than in previous years. “We are thrilled, considering the circumstances,” White said. The high school band’s next immediate season will be marching band. Along with all grades advancing, the drum majors auditioned by sending in audition videos. The drum majors had practiced skills they needed to demonstrate in the auditions in January and February during help sessions after school, They did have to submit an audition video demonstrating those skills and answering some leadership-based questions. We had many submissions, and they were all well done. We were first worried that not everyone would have the technology to make a video audition, but those who were already planning on auditioning were able to submit videos,” she said. “They were great! It made us miss our classes even more. Even though we aren’t seeing our students each day, they are still out there working and thinking positively of the future!” This time of year also brings the marching band show reveal. A little production introducing the concept along with the music and potential props is presented, Ewers said. Considering this is normally done with school in session, the reveal has not come up yet. “We’ve dropped hints in our weekly emails but we aren’t sure exactly when the ‘Show Reveal’ will happen. We are thinking of doing a band banquet in July where we can get together as a high school band to celebrate the year, do our Senior Awards, class awards, and then do the big reveal,” she said. Some of the previous marching band show themes have been 2019’s “One Small Step,” 2018’s “Anthem,” 2017’s “Saddle Up,” and 2016’s “Home of the Brave,” Ewers said. “This year’s show will be bright, colorful, fun, and high energy! We can say that for sure,” she said. Hastings Township supervisor plans for one more term Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Hastings Charter Township will feature one competitive race in the August primary: Incumbent Supervisor Jim Brown is facing a challenge from trustee James Partridge. Both are Republicans. If Brown wins, it’ll be his last term on the board, he said. The other incumbents seeking to return to their respective positions are unopposed. That includes trustee Bill Wetzel, whose name was inadvertently omitted from the Barry County clerk’s list of candidates running for office; Clerk Anita Mennell, a Republican; Treasurer Jenee Phillips, a Democrat; trustees Timothy B. McNally, a Republican, and Scott Savage, a Democrat. Brown has served the township on the board for almost 20 years. During Tuesday’s meeting, Brown said he had seriously considered running for county commissioner, but opted against it when District 1 Commissioner Howard Gibson said he would seek re-election to the county board. During the charter township’s regular meet­ ing Tuesday, both Partridge and Brown had something to say about their opponents. “I just want it publicly noted that I think our supervisor does an outstanding job and I’m not running against him because I think otherwise,” Partridge said. “But I made it no secret when I came in here over 12 years ago that I was training for your (job). “This is the right time in my life, and it is what it is.” Brown responded during his allotted com­ ment period: “My opponent if very well-qualified. No problems.” No matter the result of the primary election in August, Clerk Mennell said, because there are only three people running for the trustee position — Wetzel, McNally and Savage whoever lost, and anyone else interested, could file to run as a write-in candidate in the general election. During the meeting, the board also: • Voted to approve a $10,200 bid from Morgan Electric for a new generator. • Approved $16,738 in monthly bills. • Heard a presentation from Brown about a potential conference call system that would allow more residents to listen to their meeting if they are not able to attend. i. Each luminary expressed a thought by the individual artist. This one sparked a rhyme. (Photos by Scott Harmsen) Shepard to appear in court Monday Taylor Owens Staff Writer Robert Justin Shepard is due in court at 9:30 a.m. Monday, May 18, for a probable cause hearing on the murder of his mother. Shepard, 21, of Sunfield Township, is charged with the first-degree premeditated murder of his 56-year-old mother, Cheryl Arlene Fox. Eaton County Sheriff’s deputies said Fox was found dead in her Sunfield Township home April 26. She had suffered multiple traumatic head injuries, and an “edged weap­ on” was found near her body. Shepard, who had lived with Fox, was arrested by the Grand Ledge Police Department in a traffic stop later that day. The hearing, in the 56th District Court in Charlotte, will determine whether Shepard will stand trial, and what charges he may face. His bond has been set at $1 million. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads Luminaries along Green Street provided spots of light as the sun was setting. FAIR, continued from page 1----------------------------------- 1 “This is certainly a time unlike anything we have seen before for everyone,” Pennington said. “We look forward to being back at fair next year to shine.” As for those with animals they planned on auctioning off at this year’s fair, Redman said it will be up to kids and their parents to get in touch with their buyers from last year to fig­ ure out a plan. One of the processors who buys animals from the fair told Redman that, by fair time, he would be completely booked and unable to take animals from any fair - if a fair was tak­ ing place. “... If you have a 4-Her who you routinely support or you routinely buy an animal at the fair for your personal use or to donate to the local food bank, please consider reaching out to the 4H kids,” Wing said during Tuesday’s meeting. “...There’s a lot of other kids who were depending on selling (their animals). ... Contact your local growers, your local 4-H kids. Some of the processors have blocked off segments in their schedules so they can accommodate some of the 4-H projects that won’t go to sale. That’s $600,000, approxi­ mately, that won’t get reinvested into our community.” At this point, Redman is estimating that 10 or 11 Michigan counties have already pulled the plug on their fairs this summer and hd expects more to follow suit soon. * “This was a decision made very early by extension and has now trickled down to our local fairs,” Wing said, “Barry County is net the only one to make this decision in the lag few days. There are fairs and festivals all ov® the state that have canceled their programs^! think through July. ... There are a couple th|r are hoping to hold their September fairs.” Wing pointed out Tuesday that the impaS for the community is incalculable: “You ml think it’s just 4-H for the kids, but, let me tell you, I looked for the numbers in the article^ from The Banner from last year and the ye|| before: This is several hundred thousand dot* lars that these kids earn when they auction o$f their animals. Almost every single kid h|| purchased their fair animals ... “This is a huge economic impact to oM community.” M “Just remember to support your 4-H fan® lies,” Wing said. ® The Barry County Agricultural SocieM wrote to the county board to say: “Thank y<Sg for your continued support through these trp ing times. We will see you at the 2021 Barry County Fair July 19 through 24.” v �rPage 4 — Thursday, May 14, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Did you In My Opinion see? May flowers “ feeling a bit frosty Every job is essential ■q A peach blossom in Middleville flights blto survive Tuesday morning as freezing f'tovernight temperatures in mid-May I “caused concern for orchards and early ’°gardeners across the state of Michigan. ’3i Photo by Brett Bremer <>) .b' h id 11 •u Y iiD qh < i 1 HP I i si *O‘ •n ur »Do you remember? Winning friends Banner June 27, 1957 Dale Carnegie graduates — Forty-, one of the 46 graduates of the first Dale Carnegie course sponsored by the Lions Club are pictured here. Many other groups helped sponsor students, and during the course, Ken Rose won the “Most Improvement” award, Clare Olmstead the “Prepared Speech” award, A)an Scheerens the “Impromptu Speech” ‘'’’award, and Mrs. Richard [Mildred] Bauer !,‘Vvas named the winner foi giving the “Best Speech.” Graduate-; pictured ''include (front row, from left) Clifford Hall, Larry Gary, Jack Osgood, Vi Pierce; ^'(second row) Don Murphy, Wilbur Marsh, James Flook, Gordon Havens, Maynard Tucker, Care Olmstead, Richard Teske; ’’(third row) Hilda Osgood, Kay Marsh, Avis Tyler, Robert Crockford, Jim Smith, Mae Curtis, James Johnson, Irene St. Martin, Peg ■’TVIoore; (fourth row) Robert O. Kinsman, W.G. Pierce, Fred Slocum, Mildred Bauer, Walt Acker, Marie Belsito, Chet Nerheim, Allen Burrell, Alice Clarke, William Gautsche Jr., Lars Wigert, Sheriff Richard Endsley; (fifth row) Ferris DeGraw, Fred I. Chase, ’’’Richard Foster, Beryl Kenyon, Kenneth Rose, Dan Scherens, Gerald Lawrence, Charles Anderson, and Larry O’Mara. Graduates “fnissing from the photo are Wendell Cotton, George Hamaty, Daryl Leatherbury, Earl McMullin and Dale Sponseller. (Photo by Richard Waite) itfi ”r?. Have you met? Amy VanZandt, 32, is the community /impact specialist at Barry County United ' ljWay. Since October 2019, she has been help­ ing clients with utility needs. : 1 “I saw an ad in the paper for the job,” she J said. “I had volunteered in the past for the 1 /United Way, and since I love helping people, gave it a shot.” 0 “We are all a team here at United Way and , we help in many areas like housing, food ^assistance, VA, etc. We all work really well together, and I am really proud to be a part of 1 ‘This team as we help the community. Working /here has taught me so much, it is a great Pplace to work. I love helping our community.” She was bom in Florida, the middle of five /children. VanZandt attended elementary '' school in Florida until age 9 before the fam­ ily moved to Nashville and lived on a self-sustaining farm. ° “We had horses, some cows, pigs and that Lind of thing. It wasn’t a huge farm,” she /said. “We did some barrel racing, but mostly ’ jJwe rode horses for fun.” ‘ A few days before VanZandt turned 10 in July 1997, the family was in a car accident, and her oldest sister, Katie, suffered injuries that resulted in the need for lifelong care. She lives in Florida with their mother, Barbara (Graham) Clark, who is her caregiver. VanZandt graduated from Maple Valley i^High School in 2005 and started attending Kellogg Community College. Her idea at the Fltime was to enter the nursing program, but nafter a year, she decided to pursue other ; ^interests. While taking classes at KCC, she , Uvas working for what is now Eaton County Health and Rehabilitation. She started in housekeeping, then as an activity aide, and then worked in medical nlrecords more than 6M> years. Later, she • ^worked in an orthopedic office and in insurnance briefly before learning about the United Way position. i io “I am so thankful that I was given this job. । >dt is very rewarding to be working alongside ’ixkuch wonderful people,” she said. “They all Hruly care about everyone in this community and work very hard every day to help those in need.” Amy VanZandt She and significant other Nicholas Williams, 42, have three children between them, two boys, 9 and 11, and a 10-year-old girl. Outside of her work at the United Way, VanZandt enjoys kayaking, working outside in her yard and baking. For her desire to meet the needs of the people of Barry County and her work with the United Way, VanZandt is this week’s Banner Bright Light. Favorite childhood memory: Living in the country, always being outside with my siblings or taking long walks with my friends was always fun. What I like most about Barry County: Since I started working with Barry County United Way, I have gotten to see how many amazing people work so hard for this com­ munity and how they all truly care about everyone in this community. It is amazing to see how many people are so involved in making this a great place to live. Favorite movie: “The ShiningT Jack Nicholson is my favorite actor. Advice I’d give a high school student today: Always apply yourself and give 100 percent every day; it will be worth it when you are older. My greatest challenge: Buying my fami­ ly a home last year. It took two years of building my credit while living in an apart­ ment with my two boys, but it was a great accomplishment. Best advice ever received: Always be kind to others. I grew up watching my moth­ er always give so much to our family and to anyone who needed help. She has always put others before herself. It was the greatest les­ son she could have taught or shown me. Favorite book: “Whispers" by Belva Plain. I have read it at least five times. I just really like how it was written, and I love the happy ending. If I could go anywhere: England. My father is from there and I have always wanted to go since I was a child. If I could meet anyone: Freddie Mercury, lead singer of Queen. I love music and have always thought that he was the best singer and entertainer. Person I most admire: My mother, Barbara Clark. She has been through so much and still will always do whatever she can to help anyone who needs it. Whenever we talk, we always laugh so much. She doesn’t let things get her down. No matter what life throws at her, she still has a smile on her face and does whatever she can to help others. Each week, the Banner profiles a person who makes the community shine. Do you know someone who should be featured because of volunteer work, fun-loving per­ sonality, for the stories he or she has to tell or any other reason? Send information to Newsroom, Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news @j-adgraphics .com. 6:30 a.m., the alarm goes off. Jump out of bed, head to the shower and, after a quick breakfast, most of us were out the door and on our way to work. It’s what millions of hard-working Americans did each day with few, if any, concerns about what we were doing because working is an important part of life, an essential one. Now, in this fight against the deadly coronavirus and doing our part by staying home, we’re discovering something very important about ourselves: We’re understanding how meaningful work really is to us. A few of us have been fortunate enough, under the national emergency plans of gov­ ernment leaders, to be deemed essential workers - people who must risk exposure by working at the jobs that keep the rest of us safe, fed, and healthy. The far greater majority of us, however, have followed the guidelines for what our government leaders consider to be nonessential workers, people whose jobs allow them to stay healthy and safe by staying at home and not needlessly spreading a sickness that could overwhelm all of us. As we enter the third month of these state-ordered personal lockdowns and, as parts of our economy are warily beginning to open again, we’ve come to realize how every one of our jobs are essential - to the economy, for sure, but even more impor­ tantly to ourselves. Work fulfills us, it adds to our social well-being and provides us the satisfaction of knowing we’re contributing to the overall health of our economy and our country. In that way, every job is essen­ tial. How many of us can’t wait to get our hair cut (or need to), have our teeth cleaned, eat at a local restaurant or have some repairs done at our house? The folks who do these jobs are considered under the Categories of Essential Employees outlined by the Department of Homeland Security as “non­ essential workers.” These are the people who gave up their own income, the progres­ sive growth of their businesses, and the livelihoods of their employees by closing their shops and withholding their services so we could bend the steep upward trajecto­ ry of the horrid COVID-19 virus. Most people wouldn’t consider their hair­ dresser, waiter or waitress, retail clerk, landscaper, electrician or repairman as “ponjessential.” Not on your life. I think we’ve done a disservice to these dedicated and hard-working folks to mislabel their life’s work so dismissively and, even more, to devalue the impact their jobs have on our overall economic stability. Mike Rowe, host of the former Dirty Jobs television program, who’s been a model for the joy to be found in working, spoke pointedly about the issue most of us have been grappling with in a recent inter­ view with Dana Perino on her Fox News show. “There’s no such thing as a ‘nonessential worker,’ ” Rowe said. “Most of the country is going to come through this with the real­ ization we’re being treated like children by people who want us to look at them as par­ ents. “In an economy like this, when you take 34 million ‘nonessential’ workers out of the equation, the whole thing collapses under its own weight.” Rowe went on to discuss a growing con­ cern from people around the country, from California to Michigan, where people are starting to push back against the lockdowns and addressed the larger issue of work’s importance to the individual. “I just wanted to make a point that, when we talk about the economy, all work is essential. I can say the willingness to get dirty has always defined us as a nation, and it’s a hallmark of hard work and a hallmark of fun, and dirt is not our enemy. I used to have to shake people by the lapels to get them to pay attention to the fact that some­ where, out of sight, out of mind, a guy whose name you don’t know, you can’t find on a map, is doing something to make your life better. Now, everybody gets it.” How sad that it’s taken a pandemic to get us to realize just how many people we rely on every day to make our lives better. How encouraging it is, though, to know that these people look forward to getting up again every day and doing their jobs. They con­ sider their jobs not only as essential, but meaningful. We are innately social beings who need others around us to thrive. Most of us find work as a way of belonging, being part of a group process of achieving a common pur­ pose. That’s why, when people lose their jobs, or are laid off, they not only suffer financially, but socially as well. According to a Pew Research Report, American workers are generally satisfied with their jobs. In fact, 70 percent of U.S. adults said their jobs or careers provide them with at least some meaning, with a third of them (34%) saying they derived a great deal of meaning from their jobs. When asked in a separate survey to describe in their own words what makes their lives feel meaningful, around a third of Americans mentioned their job or career. And, of those who tended to be more satisfied with their lives than others, the report indicated it had no bearing on their education or income. “Ability is what you’re capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it,” former football coach Lou Holtz said. That encapsulates the American work ethic and that’s why it’s so important that folks get back to work for social as well as economic reasons. Friday’s unemployment report released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics is consid­ ered the worst in U.S. history. More than 33 million Americans have filed for unemploy­ ment since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic. That’s approximately 21 percent - one in five - Americans who had jobs in February who are now on government sup­ port. “The data point to an unprecedented cas­ cading crisis is that it hit frontline services, like restaurants and retail businesses, first, but now has reached into every comer of our economy, from manufacturing to even the health care industry,” Andrew Stettner, senior fellow at the Century Foundation, said. Staying at home has been difficult for a majority of Americans and addressing the questions about the country’s response and its effect on the economy also will be diffi­ cult. Shutting down the entire nation rather than focusing on hot spots where the virus was rampant did us considerable, but expected, economic harm. We were caught off guard, though, with no knowledge of what we were dealing with and difficult and costly decisions were made to lower the curve as we began to fight this faceless enemy. Officials treated the entire country as if it was a coronavirus hot spot like New York, New Jersey, Seattle and Detroit and shut everything down. In Michigan, we not only distinguished between essential and non-es­ sential businesses, our governor took it to another level by determining what products were essential, and not allowing us to pur­ chase what she considered non-essential items when we were already in the store. As we begin to open up our economy again, we need to remain calm, but still follow social distancing and other guide­ lines, such as washing our hands and wear­ ing a mask to avoid a reoccurrence assur­ ance of the virus. A medical end to this fearsome challenge may not come soon, but many of us are realizing a social end must now be our focus. Without a re-opening and rebuilding of our economy, there’ll be little money to run our schools, to fix the roads, to fund the government programs upon which we rely. Most government officials would agree the stimulus spending was necessary and unavoidable as we battled the coronavirus pandemic, but we have dug a financial chasm whose bottom will be almost impos­ sible to see. Financial services company Wells Fargo projects the federal budget deficit will be more than $3 trillion in 2020, with another $1.9 trillion added to that in 2021. That would bring the U.S. debt-to-gross domes- • tic product ratios to levels not seen since the end of World War II. Getting the wheels of business up and operating is imperative to, hopefully, finding a return to economic health and rebuilding what was once the healthiest economy in American history. The fight will be brutal, but it will take the engines of industry at full throttle to address it, with every American on the job - and with every job considered essential. Fred Jacobs, CEO J-Ad Graphics, Inc. Call any time to place your Hastings Banner classified ad 269-945-9554 or 1-899-870-7985 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 14, 2020 — Page 5 China and the pandemic Strengthen our rural communities by casting our ballots wisely To the editor: Where there is a will, there is a way. I’m talking about a way to strengthen our rural communities. For years, we’ve seen hardworking farm families not able to make ends meet, cycles of boarded up storefronts on Main Streets, critical medical services decline, young people leaving for good, and necessary infrastructure deteriorate. I know, because I live in Barry County, have a small farm in Antrim County and am co-chairwom­ an of the Rural Caucus. Currently, in our country, large corpora­ tions (some foreign-owned) receive the majority of subsidies and tax breaks, while rural folks operating small businesses strug­ gle. Often, large agribusinesses and big box stores compete with the local businesses owned by our neighbors. And we know who usually wins. This is happening because we have allowed it to happen with our vote. Here is where our will comes into play: Today, taxpayer funds are used to unlevel the playing field, but it doesn’t have to be that way. We can vote for candidates who pledge to strengthen our small businesses (including family farms) in rural communities. When we have strong, thriving communi­ ties, more of our children will want to stay, or return. When there are more jobs with better pay and good schools and quality health care, more taxes will be collected and invested to build infrastructure and keep the community thriving. This scenario is not a fantasy. It can be a reality with the right leadership - from local commissioners and administrators to state legislators and federal officials. We have the time until Nov. 3, Election Day, to do our “due diligence” by researching the candidates and choosing wisely. Do you have the will to find the way? Cathy Albro, Irving Township The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: •All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subjeci to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks Of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; U.S. mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Gary Peters, Democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510­ 2202, phone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room 720, 110 Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 233­ 9150. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. Banner Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 News and press releases: news@j~adgraphics.com • Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com Frederic Jacobs Publisher & CEO Hank Schuuring CFO • NEWSROOM• Rebecca Pierce (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer (Sports Ec :or) Greg Chandler Taror Owens Carole G Smith, Delton Correction Due to incorrect information provided to the Banner, the list of Hastings Charter Township candidates running for office in the August primary published April 30 issue omitted the name of Bill Wetzel, an incum­ bent trustee. Write Us A Letter: The Hastings To the editor: In doing some research on China for our Great Decisions class here in Hastings, I was made aware of the pride the Chinese have in their past. China boasts a 5,000-y ear-old civi­ lization, with early agriculture, paper making, trading (The Silk Road) and the wisdom of Confucius. The Chinese value competency and the unity of the family and country. In the past 20 years, China has fostered a lot of economic transformation in the poorer areas of the world. Through loans to build ports, high-speed rails, bridges, hydropower plants, etc., they have opened up markets to benefit both China and developing countries. Recently, Latin American countries have ben­ efited from China’s assistance while we were building walls to keep their people out. Now, China has fumbled on the world stage by initially suppressing the danger of the novel coronavirus. We made mistakes, too. But if we only view the Chinese with suspi­ cion and criticism, we limit the possibility of working with them on world problems. We need the world, and the world needs us. • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Ty Greenfield Mike Gilmore Colleen Egleston Jennie Yonker Subscription Rates: $45 per year in Barry County $50 per year in adjoining counties $55 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box 188 Hastings, Ml 49058-0188 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, Ml 49058 Guest Commentary ..................... ......... ........................................................ ......... .......... ............ ........... .............. .......————,.-^1 YMCA of Barry County announces annual “Partners for Youth” campaign As we approach summer, the YMCA is still focused on serving our community. Over the last nine weeks, we have provided more than 30,000 meals to families through our Meal Support Program. Many families and children have relied on this food support during the abbreviated school year. Along with area schools and agencies, we’re happy that we have been part of the solution to fill­ ing this need in our community. A popular question we receive out on the food delivery routes and on our Facebook page is “What will happen to this food pro­ gram once the “normal” school year ends and summer begins?” Our YMCA staff is working hard to devel­ op a safe and consistent food delivery service for the summer, utilizing the USDA Summer Feeding guidelines. We are looking to com­ bine this with our active and engaging out­ reach programs. As our state follows Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s Safe Start Plan, we anticipate being able to provide a mix of literacy out­ reach, physical activities, and meal support around the county. Many of you are familiar with the B. Bus Mobile Library, a collaboration between the YMCA and all four local school districts. This will be the third summer for the B. Bus deliv­ ering books to various stops throughout the county. We’ve also been providing Summer CATCH (Coordinated Approach to Child Health) Playground to hundreds of youth to keep them active and engaged. This summer will likely look a bit different based on the group sizes allowed. By adding a meal sup­ port component to our mobile outreach, the Y will fill a gap that exists in our community. As for summer programs such as Camp Algonquin, Sports and Recreation, Swini Lessons, and Y Time School Age Childcare, we are working diligently to be able to pro­ vide a safe version of these services, should our state government allow them to occur. We will follow the Michigan Safe Start Plan, and we will follow all recommended Centers for Disease Control and Prevention health guides lines for reopening recreation programs. Right now, we are encouraging families to register for camp with no deposit required. For those who are considering a camp experi­ ence for their child, signing up will help us plan accordingly for the possibility of camp in the summer. During this time of uncertainty, the Y is here to support our community. A gift to our Partners for Youth campaign will ensure the Y is able to continue feeding children now, and into the summer. It will provide campership money for children in need when the tinie is right to open Camp Algonquin. It will allow children and families to learn how to swim and be safe around the water this summer. It will provide childcare support for families who are returning to work after months away from their jobs. It will create opportunities for youth to participate in summer recreation pro­ grams with elevated health and safety stan­ dards. The YMCA staff and its board of directors thanks everyone for what they do to keep our organization impacting families year-round. Information on all our programs can be found at www.ymcaofbarrycounty.org. A link to donate can be found at https:// ymcaofbanycounty^m^ ■ Jon Sporef, CEO/Executive Director YMCA of Barry County County board votes - again for Nov. 3 jail tax request Once was not enough. For a second time in two weeks, the Barry County board of commissioners OK’d placing a $25 million bond request for a new jail and sheriff’s office on the Nov. 3 ballot. Their action Tuesday during a remote elec­ tronic session via Zoom corrected an over­ sight from their April IS meeting, according to Chairwoman Heather Wing. But that couldn’t happen without reliving, to an extent, what had happened two weeks before. Commissioner Vivian Conner pointed out that she had made the original motion. “That was the motion that I had made and that Commissioner (Dave) Jackson had sec­ onded, regarding the adoption of a resolution to approve a ballot proposal for county bonds to fund the new jail and sheriff’s department facility,” Conner said. “I had made that motion. “We had lots of discussion. Jon (Smelker) had made an amendment to the resolution and, in so talking, we realized we also had to make an amendment to the ballot language. During that discussion I asked for clarifica­ tion for how many votes there would be. We approved a ‘friendly amendment’ to Jon’s. Then it should have come back to my original motion after we voted. “Commissioner (Ben) Geiger had made a motion to approve the amended resolution, which really was not needed.” Conner pointed out that the April 28 meet­ ing adjourned “without addressing the open motion, my open motion, that was on the floor.” “You are correct,” Wing replied. “While Commissioner Geiger’s motion did approve the amended motion, it was an additional motion that we didn’t need, and we left the original motion open on the floor. “So, in order to correct that, we will need to reconsider that motion after we approve the minutes. Are there any other questions?” There was silence, then Geiger spoke. “This is Commissioner Geiger. Can we explain why we are redoing this serious, very substantial resolution? It seems like more that just a minute correction.” Wing said, “The only thing we are doing is trying to close a motion that was left open during our last board of commissioner meet­ ing. There was a lot of discussion. There was a lot of confusion., but we left that original motion open. “It was an error on my part because I hesi­ tated, thinking that maybe I needed a motion, which I really didn’t, because the original motion was on the floor. It was the main motion. Commissioner Geiger moved ...to approve the amended motion, which we really don’t need that motion. So it was kind of redundant, but we still left the original motion open. “So we need to go back to reconsider and approve that original motion to approve that ballot language as amended.” Her comments were punctuated by an audi­ ble sigh coming from someone’s open micro­ phone. Then Commissioner Dan Parker asked, “Now does that mean we have to change the dates, too, then? “No,” Wing replied. “That original motion was amended. We just have to vote to approve the original motion as amended. We just left that open. We didn’t close it the way we should have. But it was approved, the lan­ guage was approved in the motion by Geiger. “It’s not that we’re reconsidering what we did. We just have to go back and close that motion to make it proper.” “Thank you for making that clear,” Parker said. “The original motion was to approve the resolution,” Conner explained. “The resolu­ tion was amended and approved and so it should have gone back to the original motion.” “Yep,” Wing said. “We just have to go back and close that.” “It was our first Zoom meeting,” Conner noted. “Any other discussion?” Wing asked. “In my 10 years of being a commissioner, I’ve never seen this done before,” Geiger said. “But I’ll trust the board’s wisdom on this.” The board went ahead and approved the April 28 minutes, then the motion for recon­ sideration of the adoption of the resolution to approve the ballot proposal for county bonds to fund a new county jail and sheriff’s depart? ment as amended. Commissioner Howard Gibson made that motion with support from Conner. Geiger’s voice was heard: “Is this....” Then the connection broke up. “Sorry, Ben, I lost you for a minute,” Wing said. Then there was silence. Parker said, “Can’t hear you Ben.” “Is this a motion just to bring it up again or is it a motion to adopt?” Geiger’s voice came through. That comment was followed by another loud sigh from some unidentified participant who was connected remotely. “It is a motion to reconsider so we ca$ close the motion,” Wing replied. “I have to entertain the discussion, but it is not my motive to change anything.” “I was just wondering, since we’re doing this, since we’re reconsidering,” Geiger replied, “is it one vote or two votes?” Wing: “I’m hoping it’s just one.” Then Smelker said, “Seeing as how we’r0 doing it over, should Vivian and Dave be making the motion since they made the origi­ nal one?” “Their motion still stands,” Wing replied^ explaining that anyone who voted in favor of the motion can move for it to be reconsidered. And, since the vote for it had been unani­ mous, any commissioner could move for reconsideration. The vote was unanimous, as it was on April 28. . ‘‘ “The motion to reconsider has been approved,” Wing said. “The motion to approve the amended motion has been approved. Now I’m going to stumble over that.” The next step on this issue will occur at the June 9 board meeting, when commissioners will consider approving specific ballot lan­ guage. In other action: | The May 19 meeting of the Committee of the Whole has been canceled due to a lack of agenda items. One agenda item (equalization reports) has been moved to “items for consid* eration” at the regular board meeting at 9 a.m. May 26. Barry ISD discusses center-based learning Luke Froncheck Staff Writer A new classroom is in the works for the students in Delton Kellogg and Hastings school districts. This comes as the Barry Intermediate School District board discussed adding a new center-based special education classroom during its regular meeting held virtually Tuesday morning. The addition would be placed in either the ISD’s learning center or at a local school building. “In this case, we are proposing to add a secondary behavior classroom at the West Learning Center for students with challenges in the school environment,” BISD Superintendent Richard Franklin said. No formal decision was made, but in a later interview, Franklin said his intention is to go back to the board next month with a proposal. The director of business services position, newly vacated by Cindy Larson who is set to retire, is now filled. The board voted to approve Amber Holland, currently employed by Lakewood Public Schools, as Larson’s successor. While the board unanimously approved Holland’s hiring, there was some concern over her experience. “We make sure there is a very intent pur­ pose to help her grow in her education,” Secretary Deb Hatfield said. “But I hope we found someone that will be with us for a long time and will grow in her position like Cindy did.” “Everyone must start somewhere, and she will have good mentors,” Treasurer Sharon Boyle said. “If she’s capable, she’s going to catch on. Before hiring Holland, the board formally voted to approve the director of business ser­ vices job description to include various duties Larson picked up over her years with the 1SD. In other business, the board also: - Approved its yearly budget amendments to reflect income and new grant funds for th$ 2020 year. Franklin said they normally would have made the amendment earlier in the year but scheduling conflicts between board meffli bers pushed the vote back. - Voted to have Franklin’s yearly evaluation during its June 9 meeting, unless it is forced to be held virtually. If that is the case, the evaluation will happen during a special meet­ ing June 22 at 8:30 a.m. �” e'Page 6 — Thursday, May 14, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Financial FOCUS Provided by the Barry County offices of Edward Jones Member SIPC Brandon Wilkins Jeff Domenico, AANIS® 307 E. Green St., Ste. 1 450 Meadow Run Dr. Suite 100 Hastings, Ml 49058 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-2003 (269) 948-8265 What can investors learn from cyclists? May is National Bike Month. Of course, millions of Americans enjoy biking, so there’s reason to celebrate. But even if you’re not much of a rider, you can apply some of the guidelines and lessons of bicycling to other areas of your life - such as investing. Consider taking some of these ideas for a spin: • Tune up your portfolio. When bicyclists tune up their bikes, they adjust their brakes, clean and lubricate the chain, tighten nuts and bolts, and check the tire pressure, among other tasks. Such a tune-up keeps their bikes running smoothly and reduces the chances for breakdowns. And by “tuning up” your investment portfolio, you can help it stay in line with your goals and risk di tolerance, while also preparing io it for a “breakdown” in the financial markets, in the form of sharp downturns. To tune up flHJ your portfolio, look for ways to increase diversification, which can help reduce the effects of volatility, and watch for investments that may have chronically under-performed or are no longer suitable for your risk tolerance. You might be better off selling these and »r » using the proceeds to invest in i»<?8 new opportunities. In • Know when to shift gears. Bicyclists move into higher or lower gears in response to & changing road conditions and Q> < elevations. As an investor, you, too, may need to “shift gears” or adjust your investment strategy when your personal financial environment changes. So, for example, in the years immediately preceding your retirement, you may want to move some - but certainly not all - of your investment dollars from growth-oriented vehicles to income-producing ones. That way, you can lock in some of the gains you may have achieved while lowering your portfolio’s overall risk level. This is important, because once you reach retirement and you need to start withdrawing from your retirement accounts - which essentially means liquidating some of your investments - you don’t want to worry too much about having to sell when prices are down. However, keep in mind that, even during retirement, you’ll need some growth potential in your holdings to help yourself stay ahead of inflation. • Protect yourself Smart bicyclists always wear their helmets - they know that an unexpected bump in the road could cause a dangerous spill. And on the journey toward financial security for yourself and your family, you can also expect that some hard knocks could come your way - which is why you need the proper protection. To safeguard your family in case anything should happen to you, you must have the appropriate amount of life insurance. And to help ensure your financial independence and avoid becoming a potential burden to your grown children - you may want to consider some type of long-term care coverage, which can help cover many of the costs of a lengthy nursing home stay. You could choose a long-term care insurance policy or a “hybrid” policy, which combines long­ term care protection with the death benefit of traditional life insurance. A financial advisor can recommend the option that’s most suitable for your needs. z You may want to observe National Bike Month by taking a few rides yourself. But in any case, making these cyclinginspired moves can help you keep rolling along toward your financial goals. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC Edward Jones is a licensed insurance producer in all states and Washington, D.C., through Edward D. Jones & Co., L.P. and in California, New Mexico and Massachusetts through Edward Jones Insurance Agency of California, L.L.C.; Edward Jones Insurance Agency of New Mexico, L.L.C.; and Edward Jones Insurance Agency of Massachusetts, L.L.C. NOTICE OF SPECIAL WORKSHOP MEETING The City Council of the City of Hastings will hold a special workshop at 6:00 PM on Monday, May 18, 2020 in the second floor Council Chambers at City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The purpose of the workshop will be the presentation of the draft 2020/2021 municipal budget. Developer seeks rezoning on Middleville Water Street property Greg Chandler Staff Writer A Byron Center-based developer is seeking approval from Middleville village officials on rezoning three parcels of land that could become part of a mixed-use development just west of the Thomapple River. The village council is considering a request from Thornapple Flats LLC to rezone the properties at 110 Water St., 112 Water St. and 210 W. Main St. from medium-density sin­ gle-family residential and natural river zoning to central business district zoning. The village planning commission May 6 voted unani­ mously to recommend the council pass the zoning change. “It is compatible with our current master plan and our proposed master plan for land use,” Middleville Planning and Zoning Administrator Brian Urquhart said. “The site rezoning also promotes economic develop­ ment along the west riverfront of the village.” While no specific plans have been present­ The Lake Odessa Area Arts Commission announced Tuesday that its annual Art in the Par” event has been candled for 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The event is sched­ uled to return in 2021. “This was not a decision that was made lightly or easily by the arts commission,” Village President and arts commission mem­ ber Karen Banks said in a press release. “We made this decision based on careful consider­ ation of what we believe is best for Lake Odessa and the wider region. This event reg­ ularly draws attendees from across Michigan to Lake Odessa, so while this decision was absolutely necessary for the health and safety of guests and the Lake Odessa community, it was also one that was quite sad to make.” Art in the Park, which would have celebrat­ ed 46 consecutive years in Lake Odessa Aug 1, welcomes approximately 5,000 to 7,000 guests annually. “Our goal and our plan is to come back even better on Aug. 7,2021,” arts commission chair Rebecca Stafford said. “The arts com­ mission is actively taking our plans for the 2020 event and moving these directly to 2021. We believe that the silver lining here is that we will have an incredibly well-planned event next year.” Vendors who have signed up for the 2020 event will have the choice of having their paid registration fees for the canceled event refund­ ed or applied to their registration fee for the Jane M. Saurman, City Clerk Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings ads PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE NOTICE OF INTENT (POSSIBLE) TO USE A VIRTUAL PLATFORM FOR PUBLIC HEARING THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF PRAIRIEVILLE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will be held on June 3, 2020 commencing at 7:00 p.m. at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Rd., Delton Ml, within the Township, as required under the provisions of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act and the Zoning Ordinance for the Township. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Executive Orders 2020-70 and 2020-75 (unless otherwise lifted), the Town­ ship Zoning Board of Appeals will hold its meeting (including public hearing) electronically, in order to limit in person government activities, to protect critical infrastructure workers to the extent possible and to observe the stay safe/stay home orders. If the meeting is held electronically, information to electronically attend the meeting will be posted on the Township’s website at https://www.DrairievilletwD-mi.org. In addition to participation during an electronically held public hearing, members of the public may also provide comments for the Zoning Board of Appeals consideration by emailing or mailing those comments to the Zoning Board of Appeals for receipt prior to the meeting, in care of the Township Zoning Administrator, Eric Thompson (ethompson@pcimi.com) or by leaving a phone message prior to the meeting with the Township Zoning Administrator, Eric Thompson at 269-948-4088. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at said public hearing include, in brief, the fol­ lowing: 1. A request by Chet Berkimer, 11493 Lakeshore Dr., Plainwell Ml 49080 for a variance to allow for the construc­ tion of a new single-family dwelling that fails to meet the rear yard setback requirements set forth in section 6.17 “Non-Conforming Lots of Record”. The subject property is 11493 Lakeshore Dr. Plainwell, Ml 49080 08-12-320-038-00 and is located in the R2 zoning district. 2. A request by Jeff DeKoning, of Eaglecrest Homes, agent for property owner Jeff & Michell Tustin, 10268 North 19th St. Plainwell Ml 49080 for a variance to allow for the construction of a new single-family dwelling that fails to meet the front and rear yard setback requirements set forth in section 4.24 “Waterfront Lots”. The subject property is 11489 Lakeshore Dr. Plainwell, Ml 49080 - 08-12-320-040-00 and is located in the R2 zoning district. 3. Such other business as may properly come before the Zoning Board of Appeals. The Prairieville Township Zoning Board of Appeals and Township Board reserve the right to make changes in the above-mentioned proposed amendment(s) at or following the public hearing. Anyone interested in reviewing the All interested persons are invited to be present at the aforesaid time and place, or, if an electronic meeting is held, to participate via the electronic meeting. Prairieville Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (4) days’ prior notice to the Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS By: Dale Grimes, Chairperson Prairieville Township Hall 11011 S. Norris Rd. Delton, Michigan 49046 (269) 623-2664 Two of the three parcels have houses on them. The house at 210 W. Main is vacant, while the house at 110 Water is a rental unit with a history of code violations. The building at 112 Water has been used for several auto repair businesses, including the former Bender Auto Body shop, according to a memo from Urquhart to planning commissioners. Not everyone is thrilled with the proposal. Teresa Struble, who lives in the home she owns at 108 Water St., said she is concerned about the impact of development on her resi­ dence. “Our house is paid for. We have no inten­ tion of moving,” Struble said. “But we don’t want cars pulling up to our windows, or a window looking directly into our windows.” Struble called for the village to put in some type of buffer to shield her property from the neighboring parcels. That type of request could be dealt with when the developer returns for a site-plan review in the future, Urquhart said. COVID-19 forces cancellation of Art in the Park 141211 TO: ed for the redevelopment of the area, Thomapple Flats developers are envisioning a project that may include a restaurant on the first floor and residential/office uses on the upper floors. “We’re still working on the overall plan,” said Mark Tomasik, an architect from Innovative Design, representing Thomapple Flats. The three parcels planned for rezoning would be combined with a fourth parcel, also owned by Thomapple Flats owner Blake Wever, at 120 W. Main St., for the proposed multi-use project. The 120 W. Main site, also known as the Baby Bliss property, was rezoned in 2017 to central business district, Urquhart said. In addition to its compatibility with the master plan and the possible economic devel­ opment benefit, the rezoning would eliminate several existing non-conforming uses in the area, such building setbacks and parking issues, Urquhart said. 2021 event. In lieu of hosting this year’s Art in the Park, arts commission members are planning a number of art-related activities for families and children during the summer months. “During this challenging time, we’ll be offering some programs to engage the com­ munity and provide a little relief from the social isolation we’re all experiencing,” Stafford said. Further details will be announced in future issues of the Lakewood News and on the arts commission Facebook page. More information can be provided by call­ ing 616-755-0084 or visiting the arts commis­ sion website, LakeOdessaArts.com. BUDGET, continued from page 1 (from teaching) to do this!” While Czarnecki was getting checked out at the hospital, City Clerk Jane Saurman han­ dled the budget workshop Monday night. Saurman explained to council members the need for a “what don’t I need to spend” phi­ losophy driving the city’s’ decision-making process in developing a budget. “Well, as we all probably assumed, the state came through with their projections for revenue reductions for not only next year, but also revenue reductions for the remainder of this year,” she said. “What we’ve been told is our revenue sharing, the last payments that were getting for revenue sharing and Act 51 money, are predicted to be down about 50 percent of the normal payment just for the remainder of the year. “In addition, they gave us a window next year for what the revenue that would be pro­ jected to be down - and the window is 25 to 50 percent.” The “what don’t I need to spend” philoso­ phy was a key consideration as city officials discussed the possible areas for reductions in the city’s budget, which were broken down into four categories: personal services, sup­ plies, other charges and services, and capital expenditures. Each category was reviewed, with Saurman explaining some initial thoughts for possible cost reductions in each area. For personal services: “The first one we talked about was, while collective bargaining contracts call for a 3-percent wage increase, we can freeze all of the non-union administra­ tive staff and possibly adjust the salaried employees at a minimum to help offset the cost basically going up or staying the same and our revenues coming down,” she said. For supplies and the other charges and ser­ vices categories, Saurman said there is room to do better in regards to city spending. “Do we really need it? Is it considered nec­ essary for the continued function of the city of Hastings? Sometimes we buy things because we want to spruce things up or it looks nicer or it makes staff happy, which are all really positive morale things and great things for an organization to keep things fresh and moving forward and keep an eye on your infrastruc­ ture,” she said. “However, in a time like this, it’s a time of fiscal shrinking and everybody kind of needs to go with ‘what don’t I need to spend.’ ” For capital expenditures: Many of the one­ time capital expenditures in the budget for next year, such as new vehicle purchases, are not requirements, Saurman said. “Things that are required ... and for the Wastewater Treatment Plant, those are ‘havetos.’ We can’t not spend that money, but there are other large one-time capital purchases that are in the budget that are things that we should figure out how to move forward on,” Saurman said. “But again, we need to look at those and say, ‘What happens if we postpone this for a year?’ once we see, you know, is it a 25-percent reduction or is it 50-percent reduc­ tion in revenue. “And, until the state comes out with more information and we actually start to see the funding coming in, we won’t know.” Although the exact percent of state revenue cut is uncertain, a cut of some sort is guaran­ teed, Saurman said. “The last revenue sharing payment that we got and the last Act 51 payment that we got were lower than projected already, and it’s only May,” she said. “So, I know it’s happen­ ing. I just don’t know how drastically it’s happening, so we need to plug as many holes in our boat as we can without completely shutting us down.” Saurman explained that, even though the funds that involve state revenue sharing will be hit the hardest, all funds will be affected. “We have 14 funds. Those are all like their own little businesses that we have to look at separately. They’re so interconnected and we have to understand that they’re getting money from other sources for equipment, rentals or for transfers out that we do from general funds into other funds or one road fund to the other. If it’s not there to transfer, those num­ bers have to come down so other funds aren’t inadvertently hamstrung as well - some more than others.” Another major projection, with one of the city’s costs being wages and fringe benefits is whether a 3-percent increase would be possi­ ble for all employees. “Our bargaining units were given (that rate) at this time last year, so at this time we have assumed that non-union administrative staff will also be given a 3-per­ cent raise which is reflected in this budget,” she added. When reviewing the general fund, the fund balance will be taken down about 12 percent from the 42-percent fund balance at the start of the fiscal year. Saurman said a healthy fund balance is anywhere between 13 and 18 per­ cent. The general fund, and the major street and local street funds will be most impacted, she said. “Those are the three funds where we get direct state revenue to help fund those, so they are the hardest hit.” “Now remember, the other thing is we are all connected,” she added. “So, if our reve­ nues shrink, the contributions that we give to other funds, like library and roads, also shrink because we don’t have it to give.” Each fund had a solid fund balance, except for the streets. However, a fund balance is not needed for the street funds. “Well, this is not 2009, and we are not look­ ing at a five- to eight-year recovery period, we are looking at probably a minimum of two years of recovery period and we’re lucky, for the most part,” she said “For the most part, we had solid fund balances in every fund; except for streets, where we are not really supposed to carry a fund balance at all in there because the state gives you money and they want it put back into the community.” After reviewing each fund, Saurman explained that the workshop was mainly to present the situation to the council. “This is an overview. I think the plan is to set another workshop for next week now that you’ve heard the position that were in and we’ve taken into account all requests from staff for budgeting,” she said, “We’re hoping you’ll take this information, take a week to digest it, reach out with questions and our hope is that we come back next week and talk about these areas of reduction and what you’d like to see as a council and where you think the most important areas are.” Council members agreed to look over the budget for a week and gather their questions before discussing it at the workshop sched­ uled for next Monday. “I do have some questions, but let’s digest it a little more first,” council member Al Jarvis said. Although the council agreed on discussing the budget later, council member Bill Redman was concerned with the proposition of freez­ ing pay. “The one thing that I really want some attention looked at, I am not in favor of freez­ ing non-union employee pay. I think that’s out of line for us to do in the council,” he said. Freezing non-union employee pay is just an option to consider, Tossava said. “I’m sure between now and our next work­ shop we can take a look at some of our options we have,” he said. “I’m kind of where you’re at, but where do we cut the money to save that?” The city’s budget will be further discussed at a special workshop scheduled for 6 p.m. Monday, May 18. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 14, 2020 — Page 7 BROADBAND, continued from page 1 small businesses,” said Chad Rupe, adminis­ trator of USDA’s Rural Utilities Service. David Stoll, general manager of Barry County Services, said the funding will help the company build more than 175 miles of broadband fiber in 10 townships in the county - Hastings, Rutland, Yankee Springs, Irving, Carlton, Woodland, Castleton, Hope, Baltimore and Maple Grove. “Internet access is an obvious necessity for communities to attract new business, for health care [and] telemedicine, as well as for students for use in their education,” Stoll said. “But for many families across the country, and especially in our very own Barry County, the last few months have shown just how vital that broadband access truly is. The USDA ReConnect Program has provided us an opportunity to expand affordable and reliable internet service to additional rural areas of Barry County.” The expansion made possible by the ReConnect Program award is expected to provide broadband service to more than 4,300 households in Barry County, Rupe said. U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Michigan, said the award represents an investment in critical infrastructure for the state. “When we think of infrastructure, people talk about roads and bridges and so on, but high-speed internet is a critical part of our infrastructure,” Stabenow said. “I’m excited about this project and about ways we can con­ nect all of Michigan moving forward.” In March 2018, Congress provided $600 million to USDA to expand broadband infra­ structure and services in rural America. On Dec. 13, 2018, Secretary Perdue announced the rules of the ReConnect Program, includ­ ing how the loans and grants will be awarded. USDA received 146 applications between May 31 and July 12, 2019, requesting $1.4 billion in funding across all three ReConnect Program funding products: 100 percent loan, 100 percent grant, and loan-grant combina­ tions. On April 20, USDA announced the department has received 172 applications for $1.57 billion for the second round of the pro­ gram. “We’re empowering rural, innovative, cre­ ative people to use their talents and resources to meet the world demand, in the world mar­ ketplace,” Perdue said. The other Michigan company to receive funding through the ReConnect Program Wednesday was Southwest Michigan Communications Inc., of Bloomingdale, which received a $10.7 million loan/grant combination to deploy broadband service to Van Buren and Allegan counties. SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Accounting for household workers Betty Cappon Sanders to celebrate 90th birthday Betty Cappon Sanders is celebrating her 90th birthday May 24, 2020. She was married to Gerald Sanders for 40 years at the time of his death in 1990. They had four sons. Mark, Stuart, Brad and Scott (deceased). She has 10 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren. Please help the family celebrate her big day by sending a card to 10861 Gun Lake Rd. Middleville, MI 49777. Vonda VanTil Public Affairs Specialist Do you plan to pay a cleaning person, cook, gardener, babysitter or other household work­ er at least $2,200 in 2020? This amount includes any cash you pay for your household employee’s transportation, meals or housing. If you will pay at least $2,200 to one person, you have some additional financial responsi­ bilities. When you pay at least $2,200 in wages to a household worker, you must do all of the fol­ lowing: • Deduct Social Security and Medicare taxes from those wages. • Pay these taxes to the Internal Revenue Service. • Report the wages to Social Security. For every $2,200 in wages, most household employees earn credits toward Social Security benefits and Medicare coverage. To learn Unique spines Dr. Universe: Why do we have spines? Jessie, 10, Covina, Calif. Dear Jessie, Your spine is more than just a long line of bones. It’s the secret to jumping for joy, and the base for all your best dance moves. Every time you run, climb, walk or play, your spine is right there with you. “Without a spine, our ability to move would be completely different,” Edward Johnson said. Johnson teaches human anatomy in the School of Biological Sciences at Washington State University. He is curious about how all the parts of your body work together. All creatures with spines are called vertebrates, including humans. They get this name from their vertebrae, the special bones that make up the spine. Your vertebrae are different shapes and sizes, but they all connect together. The odd shapes of these bones points to their purpose. Vertebrae have spiky parts sticking out that click together and help them stack in a line. They also give places for muscles and ligaments to attach, which keep the spine straight and allow you to move. “It’s kind of like sailboats that have a mast, with ropes that go down and help support it,” Johnson said. “Vertebrae are the same, with muscles and ligaments supporting and helping hold them in line.” Vertebrae also have a hole in their middle, housing the spinal cord. Your spinal cord runs through them, carrying messages from your brain to the rest of your body. But it’s sensitive and fragile. Your vertebrae have the important job of protecting it. As a human, your spine gives your body rigid structure as it moves. But spines aren’t as common as you might think. The first animals didn’t have spines. Even today, 90 percent of animals don’t have them. (Think about beetles and spiders. Instead of bones inside their bodies, a hard covering called an exoskeleton protects their soft, gooey parts.) But vertebrates are different. They share both a spine and a common history. The story begins with the notochord, which is a tube full of fluid, and the backbone’s ancestor. Millions of years ago, worm-like animals had the first notochords. When the first fishes emerged, they also had notochords. But they also had new, tiny bones and were the first vertebrae. In some animals, the notochord stuck around. Sharks and ancient fishes still have this very old combination of both notochord and vertebrae together. But in other animals, big changes in the spine happened over millions of years. Vertebrae got bigger and more important, and the notochord got smaller. As a human, that includes you. You actually had a notochord for a while, while you were still growing inside your mother. But by the time you were born, your notochord had mostly disappeared. Vertebrae grew instead. Only parts of the notochord got left behind, in the squishy pads sitting between your vertebrae. So, the next time you bust a move, think about fish. Even though they can’t groove like you, you’ve got something in common: a notochord in your past, and a spine supporting your every move. Dr. Universe Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University’s resident scientist and writer at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu or visit her website, askdruniverse .com. Jeffrey A. Keessen, AIF® (269) 948-9969 525 W. Apple St. Hastings, MI 49058 www.watersedgefinancial.com Taking care of what's important to you so that you can focus on what matters most to you Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC See us for color copies photo processing, yard signs, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits Robert Joe Gamble formerly from Hastings, currently of Battle Creek, passed away on May 8,2020 at the age of 57. He was born and raised in Hastings. He was a machine operator at FlexFlab. He enjoyed his time working in the Rocky Mountains in the oil field with Northern Geophysical. He loved University Of Michigan football, hunting, fishing and hunting for mushrooms. He cared deeply about others and loved his family and friends. He is survived by his girlfriend, Kelli Munn and her two daughters; sister, Denise Ferrell; cousins, Debra Erway, Dawn Wright, David Wright; son, Joshua David Underhill and many nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his mother, Jeanie Ann Roscoe; sisters, Teresa Sigurdson, Janice Ritchie, Aunt Janet Morgan and grandparents, Mike and Madelyn Everett. .t Lynnlee Alice Thompson, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on April 9, 2020 to Kailee Thompson and Alexander Thompson of Hastings. Kashton Reign Morris, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on April 15, 2020 to Katrina Morris and Taylor Morris of Charlotte. Jeanie Alexandra Fortier, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on April 15, 2020 to Anna Marie Fortier and Aaron Michael Fortier of Hastings. Cole Ivan McCulloch, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on April 19, 2020 to Kylee McCulloch and Caleb McCulloch of Dowling. Bo Alan Carter, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on April 17, 2020 to Nikita L. Fairfield and Dakota M. Carter of Nashville. Piper Rose Milbourne, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on May 3, 2020 to Chelsea Leonard and Eric Milbourne of Mulliken. Loretta Lynn Sweat, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on May 3, 2020 to Alyssa Ellen Taylor and Kevin Allen Sweat of Dowling. Amelia Pearl Stoneburner, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on May 3, 2020 to Breanna Cartwright and Robert Stoneburner of Lake Odessa. Levi Wezensky, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on May 3, 2020 to Rachelle Wezensky and Kevin Wezensky of Hastings. S1Q99 OO America's Top 120 Peickage for 12 Mos. Including Local Channels! CALL TODAY - For $100 Gift Card Promo Code: DISH100 1-855-38& Offer ends 7/15/20. All offers require credit qualification, 24-month commitment with early termination fee and eAutoPay. Prices include Hopper Duo for qualifying customers. Hopper, Hopper w/Sling or Hopper 3 $5/ma more. Upfront fees may apply based on credit qualification. City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED 2020/2021 FISCAL YEAR BUDGET The City of Hastings will hold a Public Hear­ ing for the purpose of hearing written and/ or oral comments from the public concerning the annual budget for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021. The public hearing will be held at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, May 26, 2020 in City ** Prairieville Township I ★★ ★ _ ★ K 190CHANNELS Barry County Community Mental Health Authority, a progressive provider of Mental Health and Substance Abuse services in Hastings, Michigan is looking for a part-time Accountant to join our administrative team. The ideal applicant will possess a bachelor’s degree in Accounting. Duties include, but are not limited to, payables, journal entries and account reconciliation. Experience with accounts payable and Solomon software is a plus. Check us out at www.barrycountyrecovery. com. Email jobs@bccmha.org or contact us at 500 Barfield Drive, Hastings, Ml 49058. No phone calls please. EEC Employer. A Blazing Fast Internet! i ADD,TO YOUR PAtKAGEEOK^tY. 2-YEARTV PRICE GUARANTEE New construction, remodel, repair, drain cleaning. BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEATERS Same Day Installation License #8110376 Office (269) 948-2248 & Insured Mobile (269) 838-5112 r Hazel Orzella Dockter, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on April 25, 2020 to Morgan Rasmussen and Kaleb Dockter of Hastings. BRING EVERYTHING ’ YOU LOVE TOGETHER! Licensed Master Plumber Licensed Journeyman Plumber ★★ Brynehilde Donita Peever, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on April 24, 2020 to Rebekah Peever and Benjamin Peever of Kentwood. Skyonna Rain Comp, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on April 22, 2020 to Donna Kees and Larry Comp III of Middleville. MICHAEL KINNEY PLUMBING Supervisor Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write to her c!o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda .vantil@ssa .gov. Newborn babies Leighlyn G. Birgy, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on April 6, 2020 to April Birgy and Nicholas Birgy of Delton. Robert Joe Gamble more about credits, see “How your household worker earns credits for Social Security” below. Generally, people need 10 years of work to qualify for: • Retirement benefits (as early as age 62). • Disability benefits for the worker and the worker’s dependents. • Survivors benefits for the worker’s family. • Medicare benefits. You can learn more about reporting house­ hold worker income at ssa.gov/pubs/EN-0510021.pdf. Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The City Council will consider the bud­ get as proposed by the City Manager and pre­ sented to City Council on May 18, 2020. The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing. All interested citizens are encouraged to attend and to submit comments. A copy of this information, the entire proposed budget, and additional background materials are available for public inspection from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday at the Office of the City Clerk, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days notice to the City Clerk at 269.945.2468 or TDD call relay ser­ vices 800.649.3777. Jane M. Saurman City Clerk �Page 8 — Thursday, May 14, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Questions loom over school budget planning Taylor Owens Staff Writer While area school districts have received little information from the state about their budgets for next year, what they have heard points toward cuts. “Budget planning for next year is going to be a challenge because, although we have not heard anything concrete, or details, it is safe "to say it is going to be quite bleak,” Hastings Area Schools Superintendent Dan Remenap said. “Schools have been advised by the state to plan for the worst,” Delton Kellogg Schools 'Superintendent Kyle Corlett said. Maple Valley School Superintendent Katherine Bertolini said she has heard projec­ tions of “two really bad years,” with a possi­ ble return to normalcy in year three. Funding for the current 2019-2020 school year has not been altered, although superin­ tendents have heard that may change. “Our greatest concern regarding the 2019- ------------------------------------------- ----- “Schools have been advised by the state to plan for the worst.” Kyle Corlett, Delton Kellogg Schools Superintendent i j 2020 school year budget is whether or not there will be a funding pro-ration,” Thomapple Kellogg Assistant Superintendent Craig McCarthy said “We are nearly to the end of the school year, have spent our annual supply budgets, have contracts in place to pay employees and we may lose funding after incurring all of these expenses. “It will be a devastating blow to all the state’s school districts if this happens.” Schools are required to approve and submit their proposed budgets for the 2020-2021 school year before July 1. The state Legislature typically passes its budget for the governor’s approval by May or early June, so schools will know how much funding they will receive. But, last year, the state budget was not finalized until late September. This year, superintendents say they’ve heard there may not be definitive answers until October. “There could be a chance we adopt a bud­ get, but we don’t really know what they’re funding at all,” Bertolini said. “There is so much we do not know, and that’s going to make this a really challenging budget year.” Local districts receive around $8,111 in state funding for each student per year. That number typically goes up in increments of $100 to $250 each year. This year, districts are preparing for a cut in per-pupil funding anywhere from $200 to $1,000. “Most leaders out of Lansing indicate there will be one, but have yet to finalize what that amount isLakewood Schools Superintendent Randall Fleenor said. The issue is complicated even further since school district officials won’t know their enrollment numbers until this fall. “We have no idea how we’re going to pre­ dict what student enrollment is going to look like because things are shifting all over the place,” Bertolini said. “We don’t know if peo­ ple are going to have to move if there’s pro­ longed economic impact.” Since school district officials don’t know what the requirements will be for school oper­ ations this fall, the method for officially counting students also is unknown. Superintendents say there have been a number of possibilities discussed for a return to school this fall. These include a return to normalcy, a continuation of remote learning and a mix of online and in-person classes. One option involves splitting up the student body and alternating which times each group is in the building. Remenap acknowledged that this approach would drive up transporta­ tion costs. Administrators expect some, but not all, of those questions will be answered by the Michigan Consensus Revenue Estimating Conference scheduled for Friday. The confer­ ence involves financial forecasts and esti­ mates from the state of Michigan, including the per-pupil funding allowance. For now, educators are working on the issues they can answer. “Our top priorities have been continuing to teach students, support their mental health, and provide meals,” Corlett said. “While things may look different in the fall, we are optimistic that we will return and our staff will be here for our students,” Thomapple Kellogg Assistant Superintendent Craig McCarthy said. DNR offers temporary safety certificates to some new hunters 31 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY J NOTICE TO CREDITORS TRUST In the matter of: the Shirley A. Cotant Trust, dated March 18, 2019. ! TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Shirley A. Cotant, who lived at 1821 North Eaast Street, #3, Hsatings, Michigan 49058, died on April 14, 2020, cleaving a certain trust under the name of Shirley A. Cotant Trust, dated March 18, 2019, wherein the decedent was the Settlor and Nancy Jo Cotant was named as Successor Trustee serving at the time of or as a result of the decedent’s death. V Creditors of the decedent of the trust are notified that all claims against the decedent or against the .trust will be forever barred unless presented to Nancy Jo Cotant, the named Successor Trustee, ’at Tripp & Tagg, Attorneys at Law, 202 South Broadway, Hastings, Michigan 49058, within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. ?Date: 5/11/2020 Nathan E. Tagg (P68994) 202 South Broadway ' Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-2900 Nancy Jo Cotant 9262 Lakeview Drive Delton, Ml 49046 269-818-7339 141173 - STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL DISTRICT 5TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY PROBATE ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION/POSTING AND NOTICE OF ACTION CASE NO. 20-253-CH COURT ADDRESS ^Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings, Ml 49058 COURT TELEPHONE (269) 945-1286 Plaintiff Ryan Matthew Bultman Jind William David Boekestein 1852 137th Avenue Wayland, Ml 49348 Plaintiff’s Attorney • James R. Wierenga (P48946) David, Wierenga & Lauka, PC 99 Monroe Ave., N.W., Suite 1210 Grand Rapids, Ml 49503 (616) 454-3883 £v Defendant® Unknown Heirs, Devisees, or Assignees of Ann J. Fisher, Unknown Heirs, Devisees of Assignees of Robert J. Fisher, and Beneficiaries of the Revocable Living Trust Agreement for Ann J. Fisher U/A/D 9-9TO: IT IS ORDERED: j 1. You are being sued in this court by the plaintiff 4o quiet title to property located in Barry Township, Barry County, Michigan. ; EXHIBJTA Commencing at a point on the Easterly line of land conveyed in deed recorded in Liber 110 of Deeds, page 432, in the office of the Register of ; Deeds for Barry County, Michigan, one hundred twenty-five and five-tenths (125.5) feet North, twenty-eight (28) degrees West from the Southeast ।corner of said parcel, thence North Twenty-eight ; (28) degrees West on the East Line of said parcel, Sixty-four (64) feet; thence south sixty-one (61) degrees West parallel to the Southerly line of Plat of Gwin’s Grove, about one hundred (100) feet to a point eight (8) feet East of the Westerly line of said " parcel, thence South twenty-eight (28) and one‘half (28 1/2) degrees East, 64 feet, thence North ■ sixty-one degrees East about one hundred (100) : feet to the place of beginning, being lots 4 and 5 ।of an unrecorded subdivision; granting also a right ^f way for ingress and egress over a strip of land • eight (8) feet wide adjoining the above description on the Westerly side and extending from the public ^highway to lot ^twelve (12) of Gwin’s Grove and ithence continuing Northwesterly a right of way six ■ (6) feet wide to the lake. 1. You must file your answer or take other action f permitted by law in this court at the court address above on or before 28 days after Notice appears in Newspaper. If you fail to do son, a default judgment Fay be entered against you for the relief demanded the complaint filed in this case. 2. A copy of this order shall be published once each week in The Hastings Banner for three consecutive weeks, and proof of publication shall be filed in this court. Date: April 22, 2020 Judge Vicky Alspaugh P42572 rr STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 20-28516-DE Estate of Kathy DeLeeuw. Date of 08/15/55. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Kathy DeLeeuw, died 04/2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to John DeLeeuw, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 5/11/2020 David H. Tripp P29290 202 S. Broadway Hastings, Ml 49058 269-948-2900 John DeLeeuw 875 Arhana Crest Drive Middleville, Mi 49333 269-795-7158 141151 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Revocable Trust IB ■’ Ronald & Marlene Norland LIV TR UIA 01/19/96. Date of birth: 7/16/35. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS; The decedent, Ronald Norland, who lived at 11172 Long Point Drive, Plainwell, died 10/7/18. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the Trust will be forever barred unless presented to Nancy L. Benn, Successor Trustee, 135 Vinita Lane, Louden, TN 37774 within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 5/17/20 Christopher Antkoviak P59448 416 Hubbard Street Allegan, Ml 49010 269-673-8468 Nancy L. Benn 135 Vinta Lane Louden, TN 37774 (865)207-4474 141031 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 20-28495-DE Estate of Doyle Edgar Smith, Deceased. Date of birth: 10/20/1939. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Doyle Edgar Smith, died February 22, 2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that ail claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Heidi C. Rehm, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: May 8, 2020 Charles S. Ofstein P76256 211 E. Water St., Ste. 401 Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007 (269)343-2106 Heidi C. Rehm 9474 N. 32nd Street Richland, Michigan 49083 (269)492-2640 141154 NOTICE TO ALL CREDITORS: The Settlor, Betty J. Rulong, born on July 20, 1943, who lived at 528 S. Washington, Hastings, Ml 49508, died March 23, 2020. There Is no personal representatives of the settlor’s estate to whom Letters of Administration have been issued. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the Betty Jo Rulong Living Trust, dated June 20, 2008, or as Betty J. Rulong, will be forever barred, unless presented to Holly Troyer, Successor Trustee, within four months after the date of publication. Notice should be sent or delivered to 205 S. Main Street, Mt. Pleasant, Ml 48858. Notice is further given that the Trust will thereafter be assigned and distributed to the persons entitled to it. Date: April 27, 2020 Holly Troyer, Successor Trustee J. David Kerr (P15910) Kerr Lawn Firm, PLLC 205 South Main Street Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 Phone: (989) 773-7071 Fax: (989) 772-0232 E-Mail: estate-plan@lawyer.com 140956 Eligible online hunter education students will be able to hunt this spring despite the postponement of field day classes, which nor­ mally are required. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is providing temporary hunter edu­ cation safety certificates to select online stu­ dents who have not been able to attend a field day due to cancellations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Field days are the required final step in earning a Michigan DNR hunter education safety certificate for online students. Safety certificates are mandatory to purchase a Michigan hunting license. The face-to-face classes have been postponed as a result of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order. “Since the beginning of March, we have seen a significant increase in students enroll­ ing in our online hunter education course,” said Lt. Tom Wanless, DNR hunter education administrator. “We want to thank our online course provider, Kalkomey Enterprises, for SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING April 29,2020-7:00 p.m. Regular meeting called to order and Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Bellmore, Spencer, Watson, Hawthorne, Greenfield, James, Walters Approved the Agenda Approved the Consent Agenda Monthly Treasurer’s Report Monthly Clerk’s Vouchej/Payroll Report Cemetery Road Repair - Accepted the bid from Arens Excavation Inc. for $10,299.45. Approved PPI’s Hold Harmless Agreement/Permit for a Fireworks Tent Cemetery Survey Discussion Adjournment 7:33 p.m. their fast response to help us develop a solu­ tion for future hunters.” The most recent license data from the DNR shows that spring turkey hunting license sales are the highest they have been since 2015, indicating a strong desire by customers to pursue these outdoor activities this year. To receive a temporary hunter education safety certificate, online students must meet one of the following criteria: completed the online hunter education safety training since March 15, 2019, but not yet completed the field day; started the online program on or after Jan. 1,2020, and still in process of com­ pleting the course; begin and complete the online program between now and the end of the “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order. Eligible students will receive an email from Kalkomey Enterprises, LLC and be able to print a temporary certificate from the student portal, allowing them to purchase a license through Dec. 31, 2020. Anyone who receives a temporary safety certificate will be required to take a field day once the classes resume. “Safety is our number one priority,” said Chief Gary Hagler, DNR Law Enforcement Division. “We want to do what we can to ensure future hunters have the opportunity to enjoy spring hunting and Michigan’s natural resources.” All first-time hunters bom on or after Jan. 1,1960, are required to take and pass a hunter safety course. The DNR offers hunter safety education safety certificates through three different formats: traditional classroom set­ tings; an online course followed by a one-time field day; and the take-home study course followed by a one-time field day. Regardless of the learning option a student chooses, all students must demonstrate suc­ cessful understanding of the skills they learned to a certified hunter education safety instructor. Elaine Garlock There are still no future calendar dates to note. The local historical society named no veter­ an of the year this year. Therefore, there will be no major display of military items at the museum. The usual follow-up of this event would be an open house Saturday, Sunday and Monday of Memorial Day Weekend, May 23-25. We will miss the plusses of the annual tradition, but it also relieves a few people of many responsibilities that are required each year in order for this event to be enjoyed by the public. This also changes family plans for trips to a few cemeteries to fill urns and other house­ keeping items usually done on the weekend. For some, this means missing out on family gatherings that combine annual duties with the pleasure of seeing family members. Spring has sprung. Bushes and trees are still bringing forth their summer leaves. We get reports of birds building nests and of their being territorial to protect the eggs that have already been laid. Due to the governor’s extension of the quarantine through May 28, Central United Methodist Church will not be having it first worship service May 24. This now is tenta­ tively set for May 31. Who is back from Florida? We will not know until we gather. The sports sections of some newspapers have been filled with rehashes of past events. Now we are reading speculations of the whatifs. Will there be playoffs of spring games? Respectfully submitted, Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Attested to by, Larry Watson, Supervisor 141014 NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENT’S TRUST STATE OF MICHIGAN ) ) ss. COUNTY OF BARRY ) The Decedent, Roger N. Turner, Jr., date of birth 12/19/1944, who lived at 15865 WOodlawn Beach Drive, Hickory Corners, Michigan 49060, died 04/21/2020. No probate estate is currently anticipated for the decedent. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the Roger N. Turner, Jr., Revocable Living Trust dated April 7,1997, will be forever barred unless presented to: Jeanne L. Turner, Successor Trustees of the Roger N. Turner, Jr. Revocable Living Trust Dated April 7,1997, or to both the attorney for the Successor Trustee, Sharan Lee Levine, and the Successor Trustee, within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Dated: May 7,2020 Atttorney: Sharan Lee Levine P30755 Levine & Levine 136 E. Michigan Ave., 14th Floor Kalamazoo, Ml 49007 (269) 382-0444 Successor Trustee: Jeanne L. Turner 15865 Woodlawn Beach Drive Hickory Corners, Ml 49060 140966 CALL. **W Hastings*BANNER • *945-9554 Business Services Business Services BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements, power washing. 269-320-3890. CARRON SPORT AIR Hock­ ey Table. $300.00 OBO. Phone 269-908-1654. KASSON 10FT OAK Pool Table, excellent condition. $1,000.00 or OBO. 269-908­ 1654 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. Call 269 945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classified ads �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 14, 2020 — Page 9 fl look back at the stories and columns on local history In the Hastings Banner TURNING I BACK THE L RAGES Detroit history expert, donor got his start in Hastings Clarence M. Burton diligently collected books, maps and other items over the course of 50 years. The collection, still significant today, is now housed at the main library in Detroit. The Burtons were a significant family in Hastings in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Dr. Charles S. Burton, a founding owner of the Banner - which marks its 164th year this month - had moved between New York and Michigan at least twice and even took part in the gold rush in California for a couple of years before finally settling down in Hastings for the final 40-plus years of his life. A 1902 article mentioned his “store” where people gathered. The 1870 U.S. Census listed his occupation not only as a physician but also a druggist. Dr. Burton also was an ardent supporter of education, had a keen interest in politics, and was credited with Barry County’s exceptional numbers of volunteers in the U.S. Civil War. He and his wife, Anne Monroe, had five children. Their only daughter, Ellen, married Nathan Judson and moved to Lansing. Charles F. and Clarence practiced law in Detroit. Edward, also an attorney, remained in Hastings. A fourth son, Willie, died at age 6. A feature on Dr. Burton was reprinted in the April 30 Banner. The May 7 issue included a background on Clarence, as well as a short piece on Edward’s showplace home on South Jefferson Street. Edward and his wife, Belle Handy, hosted many meetings and gatherings and were involved in the community. They apparently had no children, and since Edward’s siblings raised their families elsewhere, the Burton name faded here after the mid-1950s. It is, however, a distinguished name in Detroit, specifically at the Detroit Public Library, which houses the Burton Historical Collection. The Aug. 15, 1922, Banner reprinted a lengthy story on Clarence Burton and his incomparable donation. How Detroit’s priceless historic library was collected Has been 50 years in gathering Thousands of rare records given city Clarence M. Burton, son of the late Dr. C.S. Burton, and a brother of E.A. Burton, of this city, who was brought up in Hastings and finished his high school education here, has proved a most useful citizen to Detroit, where he has lived ever since leaving his native city. Many here have known that Mr. Burton was an authority on Detroit’s early history and that it has been his hobby for many years. But the extent to which he has been able to carry it, and the fact that his collection, which has been 50 years in the making, occupies almost an entire floor in the Detroit Public Library, will be news to many. The magazine section of the Sunday Detroit Free Press recently gave an entire page to the story of this rare collection, and we are giving it almost in its entirety, since we know few will be more interested in it than Barry County people, among whom the Burton name is so well known and respected. By M. Woolsey Campau Fifty years spent by one man in the ardent pursuit of a hobby has given a city a unique and priceless possession. It is the Burton Historical Collection, owned by Detroit. This is a library of historical works, the likes of which no other American city possesses. While Mr. Burton’s aim has been primarily to collect material relating to Detroit, the scope of the library is much wider than this and bears on the history of the whole northwest and incidentally a large part of the United States and Canada. It is said that no writer on Americana would approach his subject without consulting the Burton library. The exact extent of the collection is unknown, but it is estimated that there are about 100,000 books and pamphlets. The significance of this figure and the quality of the material it represents - not to mention the prodigious amount of labor required to amass it -- can only be grasped by seeing the library and digging into its contents. To accumulate such a collection would be a tremendous life work for an ordinary man, but with Clarence M. Burton, it is not his occupation but his hobby. During business hours, he is at the head of a large abstract company that examines the titles to properties, and it was there at his office I found him. I had supposed his work of delving into the musty records of the past had bred in him an interest in history, but I asked him the question he is probably asked by nine persons out of 10 who see the library: “How did you happen to get in to this business of collecting books? My preconceived notion was wrong. History is in this man’s bones. Away back in 1874 just before he was about to graduate from the law department of the University of Clarence Burton realized at a young age that he preferred schoolwork over farm work. After completing school in Hastings, he headed to the University of Michigan at age 16. He received a law degree, but had to wait until he was 21 to join the state bar. (File photos) Michigan, he heard a lecture that would influence his life profoundly. It was a Washington’s birthday lecture by a Detroit lawyer on “Detroit in the Revolutionary War.” Get a hobby The lecturer advised all young men to have a hobby; his own was the history of Detroit. Then and there, the young undergraduate decided this was good advice, and that the lecturer’s hobby was a good one to have himself, and that, furthermore, he would collect a book a day for the rest of his life. That he had a natural tendency in this direction is indicated by his possession at this time of more than 100 volumes of historical classics, such as Gibbons and Hume. Since then, many times, one book a day have come into his hands. After graduation, young Burton entered the office of a lawyer who was a money loaner. In those days, there were no credit agencies as there are now, and in determining the financial resources of a prospective borrower, it was often necessary for the money loaner to look up the title to his property. The budding lawyer spent many an evening in the office of the register of deeds, looking up titles at 60 cents an evening. Ultimately, he bought out the abstract business and set up for himself For many yeafs?~Mi; Burton’s library accumulated at his house, but in 1914, he presented it to the city. It was estimated at that time it contained about 40,000 pamphlets, 30,000 volumes and 500,000 unpublished documents. His method of working is illustrated by an anecdote he told me. From 1787 until 1803, Michigan was part of the Northwest Territory. Gen. William Henry Harrison, who later commanded the army of the United States in the War of 1812, was governor of the territory and incidentally made a number of reports to the war department at Washington that pertained to Detroit and Michigan. Mr. Burton wanted these reports for his library and made a trip to Washington for them. After conforming with the legal requirements that preceded his approach to the war department, he arrived there only to be told by an officer in uniform that it was impossible to give him what he wanted. Asking for pen and paper, he sat down and wrote, from memory, the names of a long list of former residents of Detroit and asked for all information pertaining to these names. The officer saw that he knew what he wanted and placed two clerks at his disposal. When he had a good many piles of papers, [Burton] went out and engaged a photographer to take pictures of them. That photographer was kept busy for a year, and when he got through, he had 8,000 photographs. On another occasion, Mr. Burton was tracing the papers of Gen. McArthur, who was in command at Detroit in the latter part of the War of 1812. These papers are very valuable and contain the original report of Commodore Perry of his victory on Lake Erie. From a visit to the general’s descendants at Chillicothe, Ohio, [Burton] found that the papers were in the Congressional library. After having this great collection carefully examined, he obtained photographic copies of more than a thousand important letters and documents relative to the War of 1812. House in public library The Burton Historical Collection is now housed in the beautiful new public library [which cost $1 million and more than four years to build] where it occupies nearly an entire floor. Part of it is kept in open shelves in its reference rooms, and the remainder, including the thousands of manuscripts and maps, is stored in steel-enclosed shelves in a reserve section, where they take up one of the “stacks.” Thirty thousand photographs of places and persons are stored here, including a collection of pictures of the city in Civil War times. Probably one-fourth of the reference room is devoted to Detroit. A number of novels have been written with the romantic early history of the place as a background, and copies of most of them may be found on the shelves. When it is considered that the date at which Cadillac planted his banner on the shore of the Detroit River and took possession in the name of Louis XIV was some 30 years before George Washington was bom, and that since the French, British and Americans have struggled for its possession as the gateway of the northwest, it is evident that a good deal of American history has been staged here. Many of the counties of Michigan have their own histories, and included in this group are a number of volumes centering on the island of Mackinac, once a center of the fur trade and abounding in Indian legends. The early history of the Canadian border towns is closely linked with the early history of Detroit; in fact, no history of the northwest could be written that did not tell something of Canada. And so the records of the Essex Historical Society of Windsor, Ontario, of which Mr. Burton has obtained copies, is of particular interest to residents of Detroit and Michigan. A rather curious law of the early days has been brought to light by these records. It permitted marriage by consent or by a justice of the peace, provided there was no priest living within 18 miles. Provided further, however, that the contracting parties record their union before a priest as soon as the opportunity presented itself. The record is full of the names of couples united in this manner whose descendants are living among us. Old St. Ann’s Catholic Church, of Detroit, long since destroyed, had kept a record of marriages, births and deaths since 1701. This and many other local church records have been added to the collection. Valuable records Delvers into genealogy find in the reference room many published genealogies that are not even in the Library of Congress. Hanging on the wall are quaint old engravings and prints. One of the them, “Detroit in 1820,” showing the first steamer in the river, the “Walk in the Water,” was painted by Col. George Whistler, at that time stationed at Fort Shelby, the military post of the city, and who was the father of the celebrated American artist, James Abbott McNeil Whistler. A reproduction of a drawing of the first stockade, called Fort Pontchartrain, and which is the earliest known picture of it, is incorporated in the bookplate of the Burton collection. The antiquarian could spend an afternoon of pleasure and profit browsing through an indexed file of some 1,200 maps, not only of this locality, but of the whole United States at different periods. Some are originals, impossible to duplicate, and some are copies; some were obtained from the Dominion of Canada archives at Ottawa, and some from the British museums. An account of how one of them was trailed will show how finely trained is the collector’s scent for his quarry. Mr. Burton had read that in 1749, one DeLery had been sent out by the French government to make a map of Detroit prior to the French and Indian War, which was foreseen. Where was the map? By his familiarity with the channels through which such information had been obtained in the past, after a long and exhaustive search, he traced the map with the accompanying manuscript to deValle University in France, where the original was found. Mgr. Gosselin, the head of the university, is having a watercolor copy made of the map, which will soon take its place in the file. One of Mr. Burton’s prizes is an original print of the first map of the Great Lakes, published by Sanson in 1756. It is always easy to identify a map of this region on account of the lakes; the location of a place more inland would be harder to prove. * “Cadillac’s Papers” are of intense interest to the historian. These memoirs of the Seur de le Mothe Cadillac, the founder of Detroit, were copied in French from the archives in Paris and fill 12 volumes of longhand page^. Mr. Burton took them to London and had them translated into English; the translation fills 12 more volumes. They begin with his stay at Mackinac before 1701, the date whep the city [Detroit] was founded. Cadillac must have been a conscientious and prolific producer; his “Memoirs of Acadia” have been recently added to the group. History up to date Mr. Burton’s interest in history is not at all confined to the past, but he brings the account right up to the very living present. A collection of 90 scrapbooks of newspaper clippings qf events that have taken place during his life |s being kept up to date, one of the subjects th|t interests him most being the 25-year-old fight between the city and the local traction [railway or transportation] company. Other scrapbooks on the same shelves are those of Friend Palmer, a cousin of Senator Palmer and those of Messrs. Farnsworth and Randall, both of whom devoted much of their lives to this same line of work. It is only possible to touch on some of the high spots of the collection in such a short account as this, but the story would b£ incomplete without at least a mention of th ? 1,400 volumes of early American imprint', duplicates from the American Antiquariai Society’s library at Worcester; a collection cf the banknotes showing very graphically th 5 wildcat bank period through which Michigaji and the rest of the United States passed in the 1830s; the Askin papers, from 1761 to 1840, which are the foundation of the immense manuscript collection and which tell the history of the early fur trade. And sermons, speeches in congress, almanacs and all sorts of sources of information of a very broad sense. And with all the prodigious activity required to make such a collection. Mr. Burton has found time to write a great number of books and monographs along the lines of his hobby ... Twenty-seven books have beqn printed, of which Mr. Burton is the author, most of them pertaining directly to the history of Detroit, from the earliest times to the present ... All of Mr. Burton’s histories have the unique merit of being based on trie original contemporaneous records, that ip, records made at the time of the event took place, and not from hearsay or from other books. His work is not yet done. He looks like la man in vigorous middle life. A part of every day is spent in the library which he has created and which he loves so well. He is editing with his usual thoroughness a new history of Detroit which will soon be published. Fifteen people are working in the collection, helping the reading public, sorting, arranging, classifying and binding. The work is now well organized, but there is an endless amount still in sight. No one is in a better position than these workers to understand the amount of labor it has taken to bring all this material together. The collection should more properly be called a foundation, since it is being added to all the time, not only by Mr. Burton, but by other interested persons, and has acquired enough momentum so that it will continue io accumulate. : CITY OF HASTINGS PUBLIC NOTICE ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 589 The undersigned, being the duly qualified and acting Clerk of the City of Hastings, Michigan, does hereby certify that ORDINANCE NO. 589: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND HASTINGSRUTLAND JOINT PLANNING COMMISSION ZONING ORDINANCE, was adopted by the City Council of the City of Hastings at a regular meeting on the 11th day of May, 2020. A complete copy of this Ordinance is available for review at the office of the City Clerk at City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Jane M. Saurman City Clerk 141177 CITY OF HASTINGS PUBLIC NOTICE ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 590 The undersigned, being the duly qualified and acting Clerk of the City of Hastings, Michigan, does hereby certify that ORDINANCE NO. 590: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SECTION 90-780 (2), TO ARTICLE IX TO CHAPTER 90 OF THE HASTINGS CODE OF 1970. was adopted by the City Council of the City of Hastings at a regular meeting on the 11th day of May, 2020. A complete copy of this Ordinance is available for review at the office of the City Clerk at City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Jane M. Saurman 141175 City Clerk �Page 10 — Thursday, May 14, 2020 — The Hastings Banner MHSAA continues to adjust new tournament seeding The addition of seeding at the Regional level in ice hockey and adjustments to provide byes for top-seeded teams in basketball and soccer were among what the Michigan High School Athletic Association deemed the most notable actions taken by its Representative Council during its annual Spring Meeting, May 4. Beginning with the 2020-21 school year, ipe hockey will employ a seeding process to place the top two teams in every Regional on opposite sides of that bracket, guaranteeing those two teams could not play each other before the Regional championship game. The two teams are to be seeded in each Regional using the Michigan Power Rating computer formula based on regular-season results against other MHSAA Tournament-eligible teams and opponents’ strength of schedule, the same system used in basketball and soccer and as one of multiple methods to seed in boys lacrosse. Games against out-of-state or non-MHSAA opponents do not count in the MPR formula. The MHSAA will draw all ice hockey brackets 15 days before the start of Regional play. The addition of hockey seed­ ing was proposed by the MHSAA Hockey Committee. The Council also adopted a change to seed­ ing to take affect for hockey, basketball and soccer to provide any existing byes to the #1, and then #2 seed, in that order, if multiple byes are part of a bracket. The draw process flien will continue to place the remaining teams on the bracket based on a randomly-se­ lected order determined earlier in the season, v Seeding at the district level began in soccer and basketball for the first time during the 2019-2020 school year after the Council approved the concept at its 2019 Spring Meeting. Similar rules changes in football and bas­ ketball approved by the Council this spring |and recommended by the MHSAA commit­ tees for those respective sports aim to create smore opportunities, especially for programs struggling to field teams at multiple levels. In Tootball, while an athlete may still play only ’four quarters in one day, that athlete may play in up to five quarters per week. In basketball, *an athlete may compete in up to five quarters .per day, during no more than three dates per »week and 20 dates per team or individual. .Both changes will allow athletes to contribute Jo both varsity and sub-varsity teams simulta­ neously, potentially bolstering numbers and ^opportunities to retain those squads. i The Spring Meeting of the 19 member leg­ islative body of the Association’s more than J1,500 member schools is generally the busiest of its three sessions each year. The Council considered 32 committee proposals and dealt A^ith a variety of eligibility rule, postseason tournament and operational issues. As with tile Council’s Winter Meeting in March, the spring Meeting was conducted remotely to ifeep with social distancing required by the a COVID-19 pandemic. The Council also took action on a number of MHSAA Handbook regulations requiring adjustment because of the COVID-19 pan* demic and disruption it has caused to Michigan high school athletics. Notably, the Council voted to waive the 2020-21 pre-participation physical exam requirement for athletes who received one during the 2019-20 school year, although they are still required to fill out and sign the MHSAA Annual Sports Health Questionnaire. The Council also authorized schools to make decisions on multiple sum­ mer matters, including an opportunity for athletic directors to request a waiver from the MHSAA to wear school competition uniforms during events that are school-sponsored and designed to recognize graduating 12th-graders. Additionally, the Council voted to give schools the opportunity to waive the annual­ ly-required week-long period of no summer activity, if they choose to do so. Here is a summary of other notable actions taken by the Representative Council at the Spring Meeting, which will take effect during the 2020-21 school year unless noted. Additionally, three sport changes were approved by the Council during its Winter meeting in March and not yet publicized; those too are noted below. Regulations The Council approved a change allowing teams in sports governed by MHSAA summer competition limits - basketball, football, ice hockey, lacrosse, soccer and girls volleyball - to participate against all opponents present at out-of-state summer events. MHSAA mem­ ber schools must continue to abide by the MHSAA travel limit - traveling only to events that are hosted either in bordering states/provinces (Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Ontario and Wisconsin) or within 300 miles one way. MHSAA member schools now may participate at those events against out-of-state teams that exceed the travel limit by traveling more than 300 miles to the event site. Sport Matters In baseball, the Council approved a Baseball Committee recommendation to adopt a suspended-game policy stating that any game called before it reaches regulation, or when the score is tied, is suspended with play to pick up at a later time from that point. However, if both schools agree, a game called prior to regulation may be replayed in its entirety. Also in baseball, during its Winter meeting, the Council approved a Baseball Committee recommendation renaming the “Super Regional” level of the MHSAA Tournament as the “Quarterfinal” level - with trophies and medals to be presented to both Regional champions after the day’s Regional Finals are completed and before the day’s Quarterfinal matching up those two teams. The Council also adopted at the Winter meeting a tourna­ ment schedule that during even-numbered years will see Semifinals for Divisions 2 and 4 played on Thursday and Divisions 1 and 3 on Friday. The Semifinal schedule will flip during odd-numbered years. The Council approved a series of Girls Competitive Cheer Committee recommenda­ tions. High school athletes now are allowed to transition to stunts or loads from the flatback position. Also at the high school level, bases will be allowed to rotate or move while a flyer is in the inverted position (in a static inver­ sion), and to provide for the allowance of additional flairs at the point of static inver­ sion. Also in cheer, the Council approved a Committee recommendation requiring three safety judges (instead of two) and five panel judges at MHSAA Regional events. In football, the Council approved a Football Committee recommendation extending the running clock when a team leads its opponent by 50 points to both the first and second halves of a game; the 50-point running clock stops only for player injuries and previously was employed only during the second half. The 35-point running clock employed during the second half, with stoppages also for pen­ alty enforcement, scoring plays and called timeouts, will remain in effect if the differen­ tial dips below 50 and until it reaches 50 points again. Also in football, the Council approved a Committee recommendation allowing schools 15 summer dates of non-mandatory contact with an unlimited number of players (wearing helmets only). Schools may use these dates as they see fit, but of these 15 only seven dates may be used for 7-on-7 competition against other teams. This also eliminates the previous allowance for a camp. The Council approved another change in hockey to improve safety, adopting a Hockey Committee recommendation requiring all members of a coaching staff to wear HECCcertified helmets while on the ice for practices or games. In alpine skiing, the Council approved a Ski Committee recommendation that will allow athletes who qualify for an MHSAA Final in one discipline (giant slalom or sla­ lom) during Regional racing to compete in both disciplines at the Finals level. In soccer, the Council approved a recom­ mendation from the Soccer Committee to allow girls’ soccer athletes to compete in scrimmages at a maximum of two college ID camps during the spring girls’ soccer season, when these ID events generally take place. A pair of change^ Were adopted for swim­ ming & diving; one affecting each group of athletes. The Council approved a Swimming & Diving Committee recommendation allow­ ing swimmers to wear caps reading “State Team” during both regular-season and post­ season competition. For diving, the Council approved a Committee recommendation to designate the number of qualifiers from each Hastings High School senior William Roosien and the Saxon varsity boys’ soccer team take on Wayland in the 2019 Division 2 District Boys’ Soccer Tournament. The MHSAA Representative Council made chances to future district soccer tournaments at its spring meeting, announcing that now the top two seeded teams in a district will get first dibs at any byes, with the same new rule taking effect in boys’ and girls’ basketball district brackets. (File photo) Lower Peninsula Regional to be in proportion to the number of entries at those respective Regionals in each division. This will allow Regionals with larger numbers of participants to contribute more Finals qualifiers, while eliminating the possibility that a Regional could send all entrants to the Finals regardless of performance because only 12 participate at that site. Each division will continue to advance 36 divers total to the MHSAA Finals. In tennis, the Council approved a Tennis Committee recommendation to play the MHSAA Final two-day tournament on Friday and Saturday unless there is a conflict with the host facility. In that case, that specific Final would be scheduled for Thursday and Friday. During its Winter meeting, the Council approved a Classification Committee recom­ mendation that adds girls and boys tennis to the group of sports that schools may play as cooperative programs - with Executive Committee approval - if their combined enrollments do not exceed 3,500 students. The Council will reexamine this allowance after first two y^us.. . J UH W lit > : • Junior High/Middle Schools The Council approved a Junior High/ Middle School Committee recommendation to conduct MHSAA-sponsored cross country Regional meets for junior high/middle school athletes at eight sites across the state, based on “zones” currently designated by the MHSAA. These Regional meets will begin with the 2021-22 school year. The Council also approved a Girls Competitive Cheer Committee recommenda­ tion to allow junior high/middle school teams to participate in three competitions per week (instead of two) as long as one of the three is conducted on a non-school day or a day not followed by school. Officials The Council approved a series of recom­ mendations from the Officials Review Committee. Of particular note, coaches and athletes ejected from competition now are required to complete an online sportsmanship course from the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) before returning to competition. The Council also discussed various other topics, including possibilities for presentation during this fall’s Update Meeting statewide tour, and took action to clarify Handbook lan­ guage regarding a few eligibility scenarios. The Association’s $11.5 million budget for the 2020-21 school year also was approved. The Representative Council is the 19-member legislative body of the MHSAA. All but five are elected by member schools. Four members are appointed by the Council to facilitate representation of females and minorities, and the 19th position is occupied by the Superintendent of Public Instruction or designee. . r CAMP, continued from page 1 Ijate October. Concrete work was on-going at tjie new boathouse in November with work Continuing on the site as snow started falling. < “The project itself has kind of been a little over two years in development,” YMCA of Barry County CEO/Executive Director Jon Sporer said. “We came up with a nice idea with some nice legacy gifts from folks in our community, and construction started back in August of 2019. It is scheduled to be done June of 2020 and we are just really hopeful tjiat we will be able to have some folks who Can enjoy the property this summer” » “It is on schedule and on budget, which is always a good thing.” ‘ This time, the project is on time. Work was initially slated to begin in October of 2018 ^fter the YMCA secured much of the funding for the improvements, but zoning issues delayed the start until late last summer. Some work was scaled back in March when the coronavirus pandemic forced the creation of “Stay Home, Stay Safe” executive orders in tlie state of Michigan, but the Sporer said the YMCA left it up to its construction companies to make arrangements for continuing or sus­ pending work. “ “Everything happened pretty quick back in March, and they did pause for a few days while they were assessing what they could and couldn’t do,” Sporer said. J He said being a hub for he area’s meal sup­ port programs, with schools closed, benefitted tjie construction project. While many other YMCA facilities across the state have been i Construction workers maneuver the last of three log trusses into position atop the new boathouse/pavilion at Camp Algonquin Tuesday morning, part of roughly $1.2 million in improvements that should be wrapping up this spring before the first 2020 campers arrive. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Check out all our Special Services: • • • • • • Business Cards Greeting Cards Big Prints & Posters Folding & Laminating Custom Rubber Stamps Plastic Binding and more! 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00 - 5:30 closed in recent weeks, Camp Algonquin has remained at least partially open to offer the food assistance. “Our full-time staff has been totally focused on this food delivery program and the con­ struction crew has been doing its thing,” Sporer said. “We haven’t overlapped much until today. A lot of our staff were excited to see what was happening at the waterfront.” Sometime in the next two weeks, the robin eggs on cabin four’s sign should hatch. It could be early June by the time the babies leave the nest. There is a chance campers get to see the nest or even remnants of the bright blue eggshells. Chances are their eyes will be drawn to the new stone and wood work at the lake front first though. The normal start date for young campers to arrive is June 21, and if the state’s start-safe plan allows for it that is when Camp Algonquin will open to campers once again. New stairs and decking lead down to the waterfront at Algonquin Lake from beside cabin four at the YMCA of Barry County’s Camp Algonquin. (Photo by Brett Bremer) “We haven’t canceled anything yet (as far as summer camps),” Sporer said. “Our staff are still anticipating being here and going through training and providing a summer camp experience of some kind, but we don’t know for sure.” ---------------------------------- ------------------ —---------- - --------------------------------- “We haven’t canceled anything yet (as far as summer camps). Our staff are still anticipating being here and going through training and providing a summer camp experience of some kind, but we don’t know for sure.” Jon Sporer, YMCA �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 14, 2020 — Page fl Retired tanker from Hickory Corners fire dept, up for bid Savanah Kaechele Contributing Writer The Hickory Comers Fire Department’s retired tanker is being sold Although Barry Township board members discussed determining a minimum before giv­ ing anyone the chance to bid on the tanker, action was never taken. Consequently, an offer of $8,000 was already made for the tank­ er, calling for discussion on the minimum bid amount. “So, maybe we put it up for minimum bid of $8,000 and see if we get anything higher?” Supervisor Wes Kahler proposed during Tuesday’s board meeting. Trustee Lee Campbell agreed with the min­ imum bid amount of $8,000; however, trea­ surer Judy Wooer and clerk Deb Knight col­ lectively proposed a minimum bid of $10,000. “I’m thinking if we already got an offer of $8,000, and we go ahead and put it up for bid knowing that we got that in the bag,” Campbell said. “But why would you go and make that the minimum bid? We’re not going to miss anything if someone comes in and offers us $9,000 or $10,000, then we’re the money ahead.” Trustee Teresa Schuiteboer suggested mak­ ing the bid $10,000 and going from there. “Just do $10,000 and if you don’t get any­ thing, then fall back on it,” she said. “I’d like to try and get $10,000 for it,” Knight added. . The minimum bid of $10,000 was approved. The tanker will be moved to the township office parking lot for about a month, or until the next regular meeting, Kahler said. The wording, “Hickory Comers Fire Department” and “Barry Township,” will be removed from the tanker. During her treasurer report, Wooer said tax numbers were announced and will have a negative impact on the township’s budget. “I think it’s going to get worse,” Schuiteboer added. “I knew it would go down, but I didn’t know it’d go down that much,” Wooer said. In other board business, Knight explained the health care resolution she proposed in regard to health benefits. “I was actually paying bills when I thought of it, so I guess after talking a little bit to each one of you, I thought it would be best to put it in resolution form. Benefits will be available on a month-by-month basis every four years. This applies when a township official may or may not fill the position in November, bene­ fits will be available for eight months every fourth year,” she said. Knight explained the resolution to Schuiteboer. “Well let’s take you for instance, since you’re not running. So, your term will end in November,” she said “That would mean your benefits would be divided into eight months because you’re going to serve eight months this term, this year.” Starting in April, and ending in November was the eight-month term, Knight explained. “Isn’t it December? Didn’t they come in December and it starts January 1 ?” Schuiteboer asked. “You start on the 21st [of November] and your last day is November 20, that’s when your actual term starts/ends. So, your first meeting would have been December 1, and your first payment would have been January 1 to pay you for the meeting in December,” she said. “But see we’ve never had benefits before for trustees until this term for you guys.” The resolution, applying to everybody, was approved. The benefits will be prorated monthly. In other business, the board: • Approved the bills for the month of May, totaling $2,845. • Approved the department labor that was paid last month. • Approved the 2020 road projects resolu­ tion. Kahler explained that as of right now, they will get funded for four years to do the road projects. Various board members said they expect it to be paid off before then. “We might pay it quicker off than four years,” Kahler said. The roads included in the project are listed in the paperwork as “Streets in Delton”, Kahler said. • Received the Delton fire department report from captain Mark Pharr. For the month of March, there was a total of 32 calls, 11 fires, 21 medical first responders; 13 in Barry township, 17 in Hope township, and two assists in Hickory Comers. For the month of April, there was a total of 37 calls, 20 fires, and 17 medical first responders; ten in Barry Township, 25 in Hope township, one assist to Prairieville and one assist to Johnstown. • Received a cemetery report, with two full burials in February, one full burial in March and one full burial and one cremation for the month of April. There are new LED lights and door locks waiting to be installed. Foundation pours will wait until after Memorial Day, due to lack of orders. • Approved the amendment to the Articles of Incorporation to removing the “water” from the title “Southwest Barry County Sewer and Water authority.” • Decided to wait until next month to approved the requested $100 increase in buri­ al fee to give the board time to research other township’s burial fees. The proposed increase would raise the price from $400 to $500 for full body burial. • Received an update on the election from Knight. “It worked out really well, I only had two voters that came in that had not received the application through the mail from the secre­ tary of state,” she said. “We had 209 votes, all AB.” Before the proposal for no reason absentee (AB) was approved last year, there were 260 AB voters. Now, it’s jumped to 500 AB vot­ ers, Knight said. Schuiteboer asked if the next election in August would be all AB ballots. As of right now, it is expected to be normal, Knight said! As of right now, business and office hours will continue as they have been for the town1 ship hall. * The next regular Barry Township meeting is scheduled for June 9 at 7 p.m. in the town­ ship hall. YMCA aims to offer ‘some form’ of summer camp Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Summer camp is a staple for many chil­ dren. Locally, many youngsters head to Camp Algonquin, which is owned and operated by the Barry County YMCA. “It’s a smaller camp for a smaller commu­ nity,” Barry County YMCA CEO and Executive Director Jon Sporer said. But, like everything else right now, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought a cloud of uncertainty over summer camp. “We’re optimistic that we’ll be able to pro­ vide some form of camp this year,” Sporer said. Summer camp had been scheduled to begin June 21 and run through August - but with the possibility of social-distancing guidelines cre­ ating restrictions for summer camps, Sporer and his staff are trying to figure out alterna­ tives. Staff for the upcoming season has already been hired. One thing is for sure, if summer camps are able to proceed, in whatever manner possible, they will look different this year, Sporer said. Typically, most campers would stay over­ night, Sporer said. Now they are considering options for more day-camp-type settings where campers would be dropped off in the morning and picked up in the evening. Some YMCA programs across the state and country already have made the decision to cancel their camps, he said. But rather than abruptly rule out the possi­ bility of a camp, Sporer is opting to wait and see if they can host camp in any form this summer, even if it looks extremely different from normal. A few hundred families have already signed up for this year’s camp. There is no up-front cost commitment for camp this year, so fami­ lies can sign up without placing a deposit. Sporer said he and his staff recognize the uncertainty that surrounds camp this year, but he encourages families to sign up so staff members know how many campers to expect should camping be allowed. “Every option is on the table,” he said. They are hopeful that camp may be able to begin in July, but they’re taking things on a State DOE says keep programs, but seeks to reclaim $133,500 from local ISD Luke Froncheck StaffWriter The Barry Intermediate School district, under the direction of Superintendent Richard Franld|n, is challenging a decision handed down by the Michigan Department of Education. The state’s Office of Great Start outlined $133,500 in questioned costs and $90,765 in misclassified costs in spending in the ISD’s early childhood education programs, includ­ ing the Great Start Readiness Program and the Great Start Collaborative/Parent Coalition. The Office of Great Start officials contract­ ed third-party auditing firm Maner Costerisan, of Lansing, in December to conduct its own review of Barry ISD’s financial records. From that report, OGS decided that Barry ISD could maintain control of its programs if it abided by a corrective action plan and returned file $133,500 in questioned costs to the state. “It is stunningly disingenuous for OGS to assert that the audit conducted by Maner Costerisan substantiates and confirms MDE’s original findings as stated in its fiscal review report issued on June 3,2019,” Franklin wrote in a Feb. 19 letter to State Superintendent Dr. Michael Rice. Barry ISD’s disagreement with the state over early childhood education programs dates back to late spring of 2019 when the OGS originally recommended program removal June 3. Since then, Franklin has vehemently denied that the ISD misused any of the state’s money - and, if it did, he asked that the district be informed on where this misuse occurred scut could be corrected. State officials reversed course on their orig­ inal recommendation for program removal from the ISD, which was announced last sum­ mer, and opted for a financial penalty, $133,500, while also handing down a correc­ tive action plan to the ISD to fix the errors listed in their original report. Franklin said he has received no break­ down of the $133,500 in questioned costs, adding that the two previously discredited OGS monitoring reports did not equal the sum in that final report. Throughout the more than yearlong dis­ pute, Barry ISD has maintained control and operation of all of the programs named by the state. In their letter, outlining their final report, OSG officials said that if the ISD didn’t com­ ply with the corrective action plan and the monetary penalty, MDE officials would implement the report’s recommendation to remove Barry ISD as fiduciary for the GSRP and Great Start Collaborative/Parent Coalition state programs, effective for the fiscal year 2020-21. In the Feb. 19 letter, Franklin asked for an informal review conference during which state officials and auditors could clarify the questioned costs and work through them with ISD officials. “It is undisputed that Barry County is pro­ viding quality preschool programming to its resident children,” Franklin said. “It is also undisputed that Baity County has properly expended grant funds supporting its quality preschool programs and other early childhood programs.” “All that is disputed is whether certain object and function codes were properly assigned in the various budgets and expendi­ ture reports related to these programs.” Franklin said, if he did not receive an affir­ mative response within five business days, he would seek relief in the matter through litiga­ tion and federal grant hearings. While disputing the state’s findings, Franklin said the Barry ISD would accept the action steps listed in the corrective action plan while not accepting that the action steps are supported by OSG’s fiscal monitoring or applicable law. In a follow-up letter sent Feb. 28, Dr. Rice informed Franklin that the decision by his office would stand and serve as the agency’s final decision. AfterRice declined Franklin’s request for an informal review conference, a special Barry ISD board meeting was called March 2. During that meeting, the board authorized Franklin to file an appeal of the state’s ruling in Ingham County, the county seat for state government. He filed through the Michigan Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules process to seek relief from the OSG and MDE official’s findings. A hearing date has not yet been set. The COVID-19 count in Michigan week-to-week basis. “It’s just too early to say,” he said. While they have explored a virtual camp, Sporer said that is not currently a priority because it doesn’t offer the same camp expe­ rience. Limitations already have been made on the upcoming YMCA camping season. Sporer said the staff has already made the call to limit student groups in cabins from 10 kids and two staff members to eight kids and two staff, while also lowering the number of campers on the grounds from 80 to 60. No matter what happens, Sporer said Barry County kids can try and rest easy knowing that their counselors and camp staff they see each summer are just as excited to get back to camp activities as they are. Three vying for 4th Ward city council position Luke Froncheck Staff Writer There will be one competitive race for the Hastings City Council, with three people seeking the 4**1 Ward seat. Bill Redman, the incumbent, is facing opposition from Jacquie McLean and Shawn Winters. Each of the candidates running for office, if elected, will serve in their respective posi­ tions until Dec. 31,2024. The following individuals are running unopposed: Dave Tossava - Mayor Al Jarvis -1st Ward * John Resseguie - 2nd Ward Don Bowers - 3rd Ward Melissa Winick - Board of Review FULL SERVICE PRINTING At J-Ad Grap Enjoy the benefits of high-quality, high-volume printing facility. Whatever the size of your project, we have just the right equipment to handle your needs. • COPIES -BLACK & WHITE OR FULL COLOR • PROFESSIONAL BINDERY • LARGE FORMAT PRINTING • PRESENTATIONS • MANUALS & BOOKLETS • LAMINATION • FOLDING • GRAPHIC DESIGN SERVICE • MAILING SERVICES IB! COPIER PAPER $4 £50 by the case for only Bridge Magazine As of Wednesday afternoon, Michigan had 48,391 confirmed cases of coronavirus and 4,714 deaths from COVID-19 since the state’s first case in March. Officials say the growth rate continues to slow while testing rises. The state’s caseload grew by 370 as report­ ed deaths increased by 40 in the last 24 hours, public health officials reported Wednesday afternoon. The state is still fourth in the nation for COVID-related deaths, behind New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts, but hospital­ izations in Michigan are on the decline. Detroit had 76 new confirmed cases while its surrounding Wayne County suburbs had 39, Oakland added 46 new cases and Macomb reported 40 on Wednesday. Michigan’s health department has said its goal is to test 15,000 residents daily, and 450,000 in the month of May. Of the more than 12,000 people tested for the coronavirus on May 11, the latest date for which data are available, 6.5 percent tested positive for COVID-19. The rate of patients who’ve tested positive for COVID-19 has been below 10 percent since May 1. On April 1, about 41 percent of those who received a coronavirus test, were confirmed ‘positive.’ 1351 NM43 Hwy Hastings, Ml 49058 Graphics (269) 945-9105 www.j-adgraphics.com I �Page 12 — Thursday, May 14, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Marijuana prohibition in Hastings has no expirat on Savanah Kaechele Contributing Writer An ordinance prohibiting marijuana estab­ lishments in the city of Hastings will have no expiration date , the city council decided Monday. After the city planning commission approved the proposed amendment to that section of the ordinance, the council was expected to conduct a final two readings of the ordinance. But, at Monday night’s regular city council meeting, the council deemed the ordinance revision an emergency and approved the plan­ ning commission’s recommendation without a second reading. “If the council would consider this an emergency ordinance, than it would just require a two-thirds vote to pass it as an emer­ gency ordinance as presented and not require a second reading,” City Clerk Jane Saurman said. So the approval of the ordinance was deemed an emergency so that the elimination of the expiration date would take effect before the original expiration date for the planning commission’s section - which is May 20 occurred. Mayor David Tossava explained that the planning commission’s section of the ordi­ nance will now match the council’s section and both will proceed without expiration. “This is exactly the same as what the coun­ cil approved,” he said. In other business, the council approved an extension for the former Moose Lodge project at 128 N. Michigan Ave. Last October, the council awarded the project to Grand Rapids developer AJ. Veneklasen Inc., to build a four-story, 30-unit structure along with a 30-car parking garage on the ground floor. Construction was expected to begin as soon as financing arrangements were finalized. An amendment to the purchase agreement was requested by the developers. This amend­ ment, proposed due to the impact of COVID19, which slowed funding from Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), waives the nonrefundable $10,000 deposit that comes with an extension. “All the situations that we are facing because of this COVID-19 crisis, developers are sharing that similar pain,” community development director Dan King said. Instead of waiving the deposit, council member Brenda McNabb-Stange proposed making another extension. “They’re asking for this now and their 90 days ran at the end of February, to ask for the extension. So, first of all, they’re late in doing this. Second of all, I don’t think it’s prudent to not require the deposit if, in fact, they get an additional extension. “I would recommend what we do is grant them more time to get there and request an extension and if they do end up after that peri­ od, requesting an extension, then they have to put down the additional $10,000.” Additional time would be granted to request an extension before requiring the deposit, McNabb-Stange clarified. “We want to give them some time to make up for this COVID19 time,” she said. After the meeting and after contacting the developers, King said it’s likely that the extension would be for another 90 days. In other business, the council: • Approved an amendment to the zoning ordinance of the Hastings-Rutland Joint Planning Commission regarding the keeping of animals. This amendment adds on livestock restrictions to the ordinance, stating that “the keeping or raising of livestock for any non-commercial purpose is not allowed in any zoning district.” The ordinance does not provide for com­ mercial production livestock land uses in any zoning district. However, the ordinance now states that certain premises may potentially be determined by the state to be permissible for the siting of a new or expanding com­ mercial livestock production facility, under generally accepted agricultural and manage­ ment practices for site selection and odor control for new and expanding livestock facil­ ities issued by the Michigan Commission of Agriculture & Rural Development under authority of the Michigan Right To Farm Act. • Approved moving decisions on proposed projects to the next council meeting’s agenda. These items, all recommended by Director of Public Services Matt Gergen, include the fol­ lowing: awarding a bid to Pavement Maintenance Systems, LLC, for $299,340 for chip and fog seals, approving the replacement of the railing on both sides of Jefferson Street, north of State Street, for $35,000, and approv­ ing the chipping of the brush pile located at the compost site on State Road for $14,025. Although this action was approved, council member Bill Redman was concerned about waiting until the next council meeting to dis­ cuss the projects. “The replacement of the railing and the chipping out at the compost site, and as long as were talking about it, the streets. Is that something we can put off for two weeks?” he asked. Tossava explained the reason for pushing these items out two weeks is due to the cur­ rent financial uncertainty. “The reason I had conversation about tak­ ing this stuff off the agenda right now is because, when these bids are let out, we didn’t realize at that time, we’ve got more informa­ tion in the last week on how much hit we are going to take on the budget,” the mayor said. “So, I suggested we take these items off the agenda tonight so we can talk about it at our workshop.” A motion was made by Redman to add the items back to the agenda, but it died for lack of support. The projects will be discussed at the next regular city council meeting. • Responded to questions from citizen Mike Snider regarding why Tyden Park was closed when some of the other parks are open. Police Chief Jeff Pratt explained that there is access to the park, just not the playground equipment. “There’s that parking lot next to the park that’s open, so we feel that people have enough access to the park and we defi­ nitely want to keep people off of the play­ ground structures - in all of the parks,” he said, “But we want to get them open as soon as we can.” • Approved scheduling a special workshop for 6 p.m. Monday, May 18 , to further dis­ cuss the municipal budget. The council also agreed to schedule public hearings for Tuesday, May 26, to hear comments and make a determination on the city budget for the 2020-2021 fiscal year and establish millage rates levied to support the budget; and on Tuesday, May 26, to discuss the 2020 Downtown Parking Special Assessment, which will be included in the city budget. • Approved the mayor’s signing of the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs Assurance. This signing was part of the application for the grant funding needed for Hastings Live and the installation of sculptures. Due to the Memorial Day holiday taking place on Monday, May 25, the next regular city council meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 26. Community faces quandary over Memorial Day observance Greg Chandler StaffWriter A proposed “drive-by” Memorial Day observance at the Veterans Memorial in Middleville was voted down Tuesday night after a Barry County Sheriff’s Department sergeant said the event would violate Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s “stay-at-home” order. The Village Council voted 5-0, with two abstentions, to deny a permit for the obser­ vance, but council Trustee Mike Cramer, who made the motion, said individual residents could still visit the memorial on that day to honor those who have given their lives for their country. “The Veterans Memorial is a public place, and this is in no way a message of denying anyone their right to visit the Veterans Memorial,” Cramer said. Village President Charlie Pullen suggested the idea for the drive-by event, which would have taken place on the morning on May 25, as a replacement for the village’s traditional Memorial Day parade and graveside obser­ vance. An honor guard consisting of local veterans would have been at the memorial for the ceremony. “There won’t be a ceremony at the ceme­ tery, so we decided we could do one at the Veterans Memorial,” Pullen said prior to the vote. “People could drive by and pay their respects.” However, Sgt. Tim Stevens of the sheriff’s department’s Middleville unit expressed con­ cern about the event conflicting with the gov­ ernor’s order banning public gatherings, which does not expire until May 28, the Thursday after Memorial Day. “Those gatherings are in violation of the governor’s order,” Stevens said. “I’m not looking to shut it down, based on what you have here, but there are other law enforcement agencies within the county (who may enforce the order).” Cramer suggested reaching out to state Rep. Julie Calley, R-Portland, for an opinion on whether to proceed with the event. Village Manager Duane Weeks said he had reached out to the Attorney General’s office and was told that enforcement of the gover­ nor’s order is in the hands of the sheriff’s department. “The enforcement is through the county sheriff and we’re supposed to contact the county sheriff (with any questions),” Weeks said. Stevens said he had not received an opinion from Sheriff Dar Leaf on how to respond to the proposed event. Trustee Ed Schellinger did not see an issue with having a drive-by event, but said there may be other issues that could develop. “The only problem I could see is if they were to stop, park the car and then get out,” Schellinger said. “That’s going to be the prob­ lem.” Schellinger and Pullen abstained from vot­ ing. Trustee Phil VanNoord said an event could attract walkers from the nearby Paul Henry Thomapple Trail. \ “The trail goes right by the memorial^’ VanNoord said. “So what should prevent those who are on the trail walking (from stop­ ping to see the observance) ... if you keep your distance?” Pullen said he had been contacted by anoth­ er local governmental unit about possibly joining in their Memorial Day observance, but declined in hopes of having an event in Middleville. He did not disclose the name of the municipality, but Yankee Springs and Orangeville townships are working on a joint observance, Yankee Springs Supervisor Mark Englerth said Saturday. Two 12-inch pumps now running to ease high water on Crooked Lake Come see us for all your wedding needs. Shop your LOCAL printing company for customized • • • • Thank you notes Save the date cards Wedding invitations Photos • Frames • Wedding favors • Posters Check out all our Special Services: • Business Cards • Greeting Cards • Big Prints & Posters • Photo Books • Folding & Laminating • Custom Rubber Stamps • Plastic Binding and more! 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00 - 5:30 Drain Commissioner Jim Dull works on one of the pumps taking water from Crooked Lake to the Darrell Jones Detention pond. Luke Froncheck StaffWriter The rain is not going away anytime soon so another pump was recently installed at the Darrell Jones property. That pump will join the other 12-inch pump in pulling water from Upper Crooked Lake to the detention pond to help relieve flooding that has been affecting lake residents for more than two years. The pump should increase the volume of water being routed into the detention pond, Barry County Drain Commissioner Jim Dull said. During the summer of 2019, while they had one pump running, the pond only filled to 9.5 feet and it can exceed 20 feet. So, this month, the second pump was added. There may be a gravel vein beneath the detention pond, Dull said. In fact, when the first pump was turned off for a day to install the other one - the water on the property went down a foot. Pumping efforts on Cloverdale Lake have kept the lake level consistent, even with all the rainwater threatening to worsen flooding conditions. A public hearing regarding the Watson Drain project permit, that was submitted to the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, has been scheduled for May 21. Dull said meeting will take place in a virtual setting, but specifics are not yet available. If approved, the permit will allow the coun­ ty to have one 12-inch pump taking water onto the Darrell Jones property and then have another 12-inch pump taking the water north toward through Cloverdale and Long lakes. “We’ll see how it goes,” Dull said. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-05-21.pdf 9f0b32ead7e64d4827f991d7f2547af0 PDF Text Text Steady rains ^cad to flooding* toad closures I1VWMo)i page 2 Delton Kellogg athletes sign with colleges A time re^cct • on tak,”9 action See f 111 0,1 Page 4 See Story on Page 11 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 VOLUME 804879110187 ANNER 167.JNO-^ Estimates indicate possible $1,6 million loss for Hastings schools Statefs potential actions on school funding, are ‘jlfogical and horrifying^ 'Ikylor Owens Stuff Writer A revenue conference hosted by the Michigan legislature showed a possible SI .6 million loss for Hastings Area Schools in the coining year. “The numbers are a bit staggering, to be honest with you," Hastings Director of Operations Tun Berlin said during a virtual Board of Education meeting Monday eve ning. State officials predict COVID 19 and the state shutdown will cause a massive loss in revenue, requiring cuts to pcr-pupii funding for schools. Hastings currently receives $8,111 per pupil in funding, but Berlin said cuts arc expected to lower that number by .$650. (NEWS BRIEFS No Hastings Live this summer Due to the ongoing COVID 19 pan­ demic. Ihc Hastings 1 ive leant has decid­ ed to caned all Hastings live program­ ming for 2020. "We thank our community and spon­ sors tor their consistent support. and we look forward to bringing back the music in 2021/’ organizers said in a May 19 press release. Watson Drain public hearing tonight The Michigan Department of Ens ironmcnl. Great Lakes, and I nergy is set to hold an online public hearing I tonight. May 21. at 6 pan. The intention of the meeting is to hear public comments concerning a permit application submitted by Drain Commissioner Jim Dull. Die propo-cd permit includes several infrastructure changes on Upper Crooked Lake, the Delton Road detention ba.-, in. Jones Lake, Cloverdale Lake and long Lake The public has two options to take part in the meeting. To utilize both audio and visual. EGLF. officials recommend regis­ tration ar hnpsiAattendee.gotowcbinar. com/regishT 8 ’4)4851106891289101. For those without internet access, the hearing can be reached by calling 213 929-4232 and using the code 698-871­ 804. However, users calling in will be able to listen to the proceedings only and will be unable to participate either through video or audio. The public hearing record will remain open for 10 days after the public hearing date. Any written comment- should be submitted fot the public hearing record m Since the district currently has about 2.570 students, that would mean a loss of more than $1.6 million in revenue for the district. “What the district has built up over the last eight years, it there’s no increase in revenue, or decrease in expenses, the w hole fund bal­ ance could be gone in two years," Berlin said. lhe district’s fund balance, which it has spent years building up, would be wiped out in two years -- unless the district receives additional revenue. Berlin said. But the cuts to the district’s pcr-pupil fund­ ing amount will not be certain until the state’s annual budget is approved, w hich may not lx* until October. However, school officials will need to start operating with a budget based on their best guess as of July I. The revenue conference, which took place last Friday, confirmed what district officials were already expecting. Hastings Superintendent Dan Remenap told The Hastings Banner. “The outlook is grim tor the next couple years at least." Remenap said. “We arc going to do all we can to keep all cuts away from the classroom level, but we arc not sure if that is going to be possible." What happened during Friday’s revenue conference left Remenap w ith other concerns “Tile state is supposedly dragging their feet on using the Budget Stabilization Fund -- the state’s rainy day fund.” he said, “if they won’t use it now. w hat possible situation could ever ari-e in which they would?” While the school’s funding for the current fiscal year ending June 30 has not been affect­ ed, there is still a good possibility it will be. Remenap added. Ihc stale may issue a proration, meaning it could cut funding for the current fiscal year, even after the fiscal year ends June 30. Districts continue to receive funding for lhe current fiscal year until July, and the state may cut back on those June or July payments. "It's possible that they would claw it back out of payments yet to come in this fiscal year.” Barry Intermediate School District Superintendent Rich Franklin told The Banner Wednesday. “Or they could send us a bill and say ‘send it back.’ ” “Il seems illogical and horrifying at the same time.” “The year is almost over," Berlin said. “I don’t see how' there’s any way we could cut any expenses from the current year, we’re so close to being done.” The vast majority of the school’s expenses are in staff salaries and benefits. "We can’t un-pay people,” Franklin said. Militia members watch from the stage as Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf speaks to the crowd at the ‘’American Patriot Rally Sheriffs Speak Out” at Rosa Parks Circle in downtown Grand Rapids Monday evening. Leaf was the headliner during the nearly three-hour event. (Photo by Breit Bremer) - County sheriff headlines rally against continued stay-home orders Brett Bremer Sports Editor Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf opened his address Monday to the crowd at Rosa Parks Circle wondering aloud what it would have been like if a deputy had helped Parks uphold her Constitutionally-protected rights on that Montgomery./\la.. bus in 1955. Leaf's remarks at the “American Patriot Rally - Sheriffs Speak Out” in downtown Grand Rapids Monday included a comparison between African-American civil rights activ­ ist Parks, who fought against systemic racism, and Owosso barber Karl Manke. The sheriff dubbed Manke “The Bootleg Barber.” for choosing to flout Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s executive order by reopening his shop. Ixaf, who characterized both Parks and Manke as rebels, may be earning a nickname said. See RALLY, page 8 Memorial Day options Garden club cancels tour, meetings the garden tour in Jnrn Sp* •' " r- u v IxxHK.Mhedukdtofumrtd..';-We art -sorry we have to camel* t > thing, bm full It w.c.iu the best umst < (air member- ami the pu.» «c t0 }u' Hous.’’ club president Maty < ’ Monday, he let it be known to the crowd of a few hundred gathered under gray skies at Rosa Parks Circle that he would not have enforced Whitmer’s COVID-19 executive orders the way police in Owosso did earlier this month when Manke reopened his barber shop. Leaf would not have done so, he said, especially not with the show of force (six offi­ cers) that was used Io deliver paperwork to the 77-year-old business owner. He called it “retaliation" when the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs suspended Manke’s barber license after a Shiawassee County Circuit Court judge would not sign a temporary restraining order from state Attorney General Dana Nessel to keep Manke from reopening his business. The Barry County sheriff said he is very much looking forward to how all of this plays out in the courts. Early in his speech. Leaf likened the slate’s “Stay Home. Stay Safe” executive orders to an unlawful house arrest. “What is the defini­ tion of an arrest?” he asked the crowd. “It is basically taking away your right to free will, your right to move about. That is an arrest, and an unlawful arrest is when we do it unlawfully. So. when you are ordered to your home, are you under arrest? Yeah, by defini­ tion you are.” “Folks, we have this thing in our country called due process,” he said, drawing cheers, which he stoked for a moment. But, despite expressing disdain for the executive orders, and his own personal opinion on their legality. Local groups plan limited i ■ fl I Mi Waters. B-xau<c of the threat of (OVID 19. the Jhmnapph Garden Club members have deeded to camel thetr meeting •.du doled lor May .md h'-jc as well a lheUatdcn rhyme MmkeTC.aB -ho-nd himself: “Celebrity Sheriff." His opinions were broadcast nationally on April 17 on Fox •> J-Ad News Services 'Illis year. Memorial Day observances will have a different feel - still somber - but without reverent parades, speeches and military .salutes. Normally, veterans’ groups, scouts, high school band members and residents take part in or attend a ceremony in nearly a dozen local communities, paying respect to those who died while serving the country. But as lhe threat of COVID-19 continues, organizers have decided to cancel formal activities. The decisions have not been easy for some to make, but protecting lhe public health in the community and following guidelines set by state executive orders have been key considerations. Volunteers have already placed Hags at cemeteries. Individuals or families may visit cemeteries or memorials in several communities, including Hastings, Clarksville. Woodland, Lake Odessa. Middleville and Caledonia. Elsewhere, limited ceremonies have been planned, including: Nashville - A small ceremony will take place at (he fishing dock on the fhornapplc River near Putnam Park at 11:30 a.m. lhe AT LEFT: Cole Weeber decorates lhe grave ol a veteran with an American flag at Parmelee Cemetery in Thornapple Township Wednesday afternoon as part of Memorial Day preparations. (Photo by Brett Bremer) services will continue at Lakeview Cemetery at noon. ;. Orangeville Township - A few veterans’ will hold a brief ceremony at 2 p.m. Sunday; May 24, at the veterans memorial in front of the township hall.They w ill read the names of deceased veterans from (he township, place a wreath and listen to lhe play ing of taps. ; Monday. May 25. veterans from othercommunities will take part in a convoy beginning at 10 a.m. at Gun Lake Community, Church. From the church, lhe convoy will drive past the Yankee Springs Township­ veterans memorial and the Orangeville veterans memorial before heading into Hastings, where it will go past the veterans, memorial at Tyden Park. Sunfield - self-guided tour at Sunfield Cemetery’, coordinated by Rofie Best and Shana Cappun. members of the Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War, Helen M. Edwins lent 30. lhe 15-ininuk* tour will be accessible from dawn to dusk through the end of the month. Vermontville - American Legion Post 222 Commander Tom Williams will conduct remembrances at the usual times, and people may observe if they follow social-distancing guidelines. The ceremony will begin with a salute to the Navy and Coast Guard at the Ionia Road bridge over the Thonrapple River at 9.30a.m., following by visiting monuments to the Vietnam War and the Grand Army of the Republic in downtown Vermontville at l(j a.m. and the veterans’ memorial in Woodlawn Cemetery at 10:30 a.m. �Page 2 — Thurwftiy, M„v 21, 2020 — The Hastings awner Steady rains le iMMh - w. ■ ........... ........................... Neither vehicles nor pedestrians can reach the boat launch or beach at Cha Park, where wetlands, a creek and the river block access. Water courses over Barger Road in Castleton Township between Center and Thornapple Lake roa{jS. Waler from the Thornapple River creeps up the lawn toward the Sixberry House and carriage house at the edge of Historic Charlton Park’s village Tuesday. (Photos by Kathy Maurer) I hc month of May had a dry start - nine straight days without rain. Then the showers began, lighter at first, w ith a halt-inch of rain, follow cd by two more dry days, but then more than 5 inches over the next seven days. lhe National Weather Service reported 2.29 inches of rainfall in Hastings May 14 and 2.46 inches May is. The average total precipitation for the month of May is 2.42 inches. So far. 6.24 has been recorded here. Persistent rainfall has resulted in flooded yards, fields. p;irks nnd nia(js. Even some higher areas not pInne lo flooding have seen standing water. A section of Barber Road was Canada geese cross Coburn Road not far from where Cedar Creek floods the road. flooded by an overwhelmed drain. One longtime resident said it was the first time in her life she’d seen that particular area flooded. Several area roads remained closed Wednesday afternoon. Floodwaters from the Thomapple River and Thomapple Lake covered lower areas of Historic Charlton Park Water blocked access to the beach and boat launch, and the river was encroaching the village. In the city of Hastings, the river crested at 9.25 feet Wednesday, still less than the 9.79 feet reached in February 2018. Both are deemed moderate flooding, according to the National Weather Service. Elsewhere in lhe state, major flooding was reported on lhe Pine River in Alma, lhe Rifle River near Sterling, and the Tittabawassec in Gladwin and Midland counties. An initial dam breach of Wixom Lake in Edenvillc led to the subsequent failure the Sanford Dam. As a result, the Tittabawassec River overflowed its 24-foot flood siage and was expected to cresl around 38 feet Wednesday. ••than The5 pocket park theasThornapple inches of rainnear fell in many days.Plaza in Hastings is submernpd 9 a er more _______________________ _________________________ --------- -md Whitney Ditch makes itself known as water from it flows over Barber Road between The normally undetQcled \ Road Tuesday morning. Most drivers turned around, but not all. Woodlawn Avenue Co ^5 GroVl �Ths Hastings Banned — Thursday. May 21, 2020 — Paga 3 Recent rain adds to frustration for lakeside residents Water has again covered M-43 east of Cloverdale Lake (Photo by Beckie Reed.) Luke Fronchcck Stuff Writer For the first time this year, Fast Shore Drive is under water. The road, directly east of Crooked Lake in Delton, was raised some 13 inches last year after nearly 2 feet of water had covered it. But with persistent rain in recent days, even the raised roadway was not high enough to stop flooding. Deb Englehardt. a homeowner on East Shore Drive said. Monday. Englehardt, her husband, and many of (heir neighbors spent their day filling and stacking sandbags and pumping water from their yards. “I really don’t understand how this flood­ ing issue on Crooked Lake was considered an emergency crisis three summers ago and yet we have more waler now than we have ever had.” Englehardt said. Pumps are currently moving water from lhe lake to a detention basin north of Delton Road. ‘'We’ve got two pumps in and the lake went up.” Bany' County Drain Commissioner Jim Dull said. "The issue is the pumps can take 2 inches off in a week, and we got 6 inches in a weekend.” Just last week. Dull said he was expecting an increase in pumping and a decrease in waler level on Crooked Lake due to multiple pumps running. “Everyone is just drowning right now.” Dull said. “Il is what it is." But he also mentioned rainwater threaten­ ing to further raise the lake. Illis week, water didn’t just threaten the lake, it poured down onto it. Dave McIntyre, who monitors lhe National Weather Service Climatological Station in Hastings, said this area has already gotten 6.26 inches of rainfall for lhe month of May. While some rain is forecasted this weekend and into Monday, McIntyre said it’s hard to say what Barry County residents can expect to see until it gets closer. As of Monday. Crooked Lake is around 928.375 feet above sea level - almost equal to its highest level last year. “'rhe frustration (on both sides of this cri­ sis] is that we need a fix and we need it now more than ever,” Crooked Lake resident John Hoek said. “A temporary one has been designed, but even if it survives the approval process, it’s months away from being imple­ mented. This is an emergency. Is it possible that there is an emergency option we have not considered?” Water is beginning to creep over the top of East Shore Drive east of Crooked Lake in Delton. Usual prep begins unusual Memorial Day Richard niorne andMarlin Walters keep some space as\he7qather a°l''ey’ Larr* Walson' Lc® ^nation’s' Sand* Greenfield. Robin Hawthor . the breeze Wednesday afternoon at the Rnti a 0Und »'o memorial lor l|1L ’ Unknown dead with Amer,can flags o' d«oeased veterans at ,hn oemete v <p a?d Unship Cemetery. The 0-°uP ®Penl part of ,he noonhour decorating tne w r ir nolo by 0re(l Bremer) Thornapple Township Emergency Services Chief Randy Eaton is among the dozen or more volunteers placing flags at the graves of deceased veterans at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Middleville Wednesday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) �Page 4 — Thursday. May 21.2020 — Th* Hastings Bannt* |iDid you SCO The pen is mightier... ' ... especially if you’re using it to I express positive thoughts on a bulletin ‘ board in the Barry County Courts & Law (building in Hastings. Here are some thoughts expressed by a young swim­ : mer who’s a memberofthe Hammerheads ’Swim Club. Judge Michael Schipper suggests an assignment to these young I swimmers every couple of weeks. Here's I; the work of one team member - who has i a lot of positive thoughts to share: Be i kind. Be happy. Just smile. Keep going. J Try your best. Just try. Don i quit. It's I’ going to be a good day. Words to live by. | (Photo by Scott Harmsen) fee. Zoo ^xnj(s Memorial Day: A t'01®?®. reflect... on taking action To be sure, Memorial Day 2020 will be one to remember. feS On a day to honor those soldiers who gave their lives for us to be free, this year Jooj we’ll also be remembering a way of life Jo-y. we once had and hope to have back again. 'ur QuJ Fj. As lhe coronavirus gets arm-wrestled to the table, and all around us. including i: other slates, get back to the business they need to be about, Michigan continues to plod along. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer seems to be playing a game of bingo as she calls the numbers of businesses allowed to reopen based on some metric of necessity or being essential. The others are being handed safety guideline rulebooks by which they'll have to prove their ability to protect workers and customers from the coronavirus before their numbers get drawn to open. I applaud the governor for her caution, but. rather than a game of bingo, I worry that her stalled approach to reopen busi­ ness in the stale is now resembling a game of Russian roulette. Thoughts of a spinning gun chamber were especially chilling last Friday with the remarks of Michigan Budget Director Chris Kolb following the slate's bi-annual revenue estimating conference. “To say the numbers we saw arc sober­ ing would be an understatement," said Kolb, after officials lowered projected tax collections by $6.2 billion over lhe next 18 months - far more than anyone had pro­ jected. “There’s no playbook that’s on the shelf to truly address a loss of revenue of this size this quickly. This is potentially as bad as. if not worse than, the Great Depression." In the current fiscal year, which runs through August. Michigan is expected to lose SI .9 billion in expected revenue from what had been lhe $11 billion General Fund and Si.2 billion from what would have been a $13.9 billion balance in the School Aid Fund. Currently, the state provides about $8,000 per pupil in school funding but, due to Friday’s projections, that could drop to $7200 per pupil or. in a worst-case scenario, to as low as $5,600 per pupil, those numbers coming from Chairman I Norris: (back) Keith R. Norris, VoyleW. Benner. Ernest E. Wayne Schmidt. R-Traverse City, of the Burr and Raymond A. Snore. Florence Norris received her Senate K-12 Appropriations Budget award for four years of perfect attendance, and she selected Banner Jan. 21, 1976 । Committee. Those numbers should be Always on the job - Stephen Johnson (right) president of a clock radio as her gift. The others were honored for three shocking to residents and are a cold har­ ^Hastings Manufacturing Company. Tuesday presented awards years of perfect attendance. Benner and Snore selected binger of lhe impact they will have on families. Tor perfect attendance to seven employees. For their devotion sports boots as their gifts. Burris and Keith Norris chose por­ As governors in nearly every state have to their jobs, they also received special gifts. Pictured (front table radios, Purdy chose a clock radio, and Wertman select­ been pleading, without federal govern­ row, from left) are Helen J. Wertman, Helen L. Purdy, Florence ed stack cushions. ment assistance, citizens are going to be seeing massive cuts in not only their schools but in the other services that states provide, like fire and police protection, health care, and municipal maintenance of streets, water systems, and mass transit. “We need greater flexibility on existing federal funding that will allow us to use those dollars to replace lost revenue," said | Fallon Januska has the responsibility to Kolb. “Without added flexibility or new’ For her love of the environment and dedi ­ study the area and work to protect it from funding from the federal government that cation to combatting invasive species. Fallon invaders. She is the coordinator of the provides direct aid to help slates address Januska is this week’s Banner Bright Light. Barry-Calhoun-Kalamazoo Cooperative revenue shortfalls, we will have to take a i Invasive Species Management Area, or BCK hard look at everything in the budget, [CISMA. If I won the lottery: First. I would take including education and other key priori­ [ Januska has been lhe local coordinator care of boring things like paying off loans ties." and bills, putting money in savings and l since 2018 and has been involved with To me. that sounds like massive cuts to i CISMA since 2016. retirement plans, and helping family and schools, local governments and no money friends with the same things.On a fun note. “The CISMA mission is to combat the to fix the damn roads. , threat of invasive species in the tri-county I would travel and probably become an envi­ During a press conference on Monday, •area. I do this through treatment of invasive ronmental philanthropist. Whitmer announced that businesses in lhe (species, as well as education and outreach on Activities I enjoy; Boating, hiking, danc­ Upper Peninsula and parts of the Lower j the harmful effects of invasive species and ing. snowboarding and spending time with Peninsula could reopen and operate in a my family. • how- everyone can prevent the spread of invalimited capacity. Yet most of the state con­ {sive species.’’ Best gift ever received: My parents paid tinues to report low numbers of deaths, so । ’Die 27-year-old Norton Shores native is tor my schooling, and their investment in my why not allow places like Barry County ।the middle child of Kelly (Fisher) and the future means a lot. I am . juckv they were that still only have one death to open as [late Martin Januska. able to help me in that way well? She attended Muskegon Community Person w ho influenced me the most: My With so many businesses and industries College for a year then transferred to Grand mom. She is an extremelv strong and postclosed, the slate is feeling the pain and .Valley Slate University, graduating in 2015 e person I have learned s<> much about life will continue to bleed unless we allow our (with a bachelor’s degree in biology with an Irorn her. (o this day 1 s,i|| call her for blS [ ungs like advice o'n n?e choices to small business sector to open up again. I fully |aquatic emphasis. understand the safely aspect, but there’s . While al GVSU, in a chemistry lab. she Hungs hke, Hou doyou nlake your Alfredo proof that we can have both safety and the I met her future husband and fiance, Evan j Chabala. 26, who works as a cardiothoracic Fuvorite board kid; Clue. I economy, as many slates that have begun Fallon Januska •nurse al Spectrum Health’s Meijer Heart to open or never closed in the first place I Center in Grand Rapids. Ihc two were sup­ are making it work. Most of us understand mcnl and help landowners with harmful posed to get married this weekend. government ’s concent over lhe spread of । ^cn,; , don’t realb (he virus, but if we continue to ignore the “We will hopefully be married this sum­ invasive species. Another positive for me is importance of our economic health, the mer,” she said. "I don’t want to give an exact being able to work outside, more than an Best advice m.r |: from my date and jinx it. with everything that’s going average job," she said. “My co-workers at brother: "You are nu. „ hut you have stale will feel lhe pain for years to come. the Barry Conservation District are great. We Power with yoUr As financial challenges continue to on.” all do something a little different, but we are escalate amid the crisis, bankruptcy is sure | During her summers at Grand Valley and Best thing about Bar,. ,nUIIlv: h's •immediately after graduation, she worked at always striving to work together on projects ered with ’’green*' . ltT' to offer a financial safe harbor from lhe \n Google (’the GVSU Annis Water Resources Institute and help each other." Maps represents Because 1 economic storm," said Amy Quackenboss Invasive species are a serious matter, and like hiking, my f,v .°'lr are4'- Springs in the education classroom, vessel and in the executive director for the American not just for native plants and wildlife. Recreation Area. ,s YanU Bankruptcy Institute. The coronavirus is microbiology lab. “One of the scariest invasives for land­ In April 2016, Fallon was hired as a strike pushing many companies across lhe state team member for Saginaw Bay CISMA. She owners is Japanese knotweed, because if it is and nation over the edge into bankruptcy became the coordinator in January’ 2017. close to the house, it can grow through the as state stay-at-home orders keep small before accepting lhe position with BCK foundation.” she said, with a warning for businesses from trying to survive bleak jz'r. CISMA in 2018. She enjoyed the coordinator homeowners. "Additionally, everyone’s first economic conditions. role, and was happy to be back on the west instinct to get rid ot an unwanted plant caus­ Mtnalily, for ilu. ..lr horfi, fun-W* 1 ,, Icons like Macy’s. J.C Penney. Neiman es Japanese knotweed to grow more, lhe side of the stale, she said. Marcus. J.Crcw. Hertz Car Rental, and oilier , Fallon lias a lol to say about the benefits of relief people express when I make a pj;ui with them always makes the effort more than being a part of BCK <ISMA. ‘'‘‘''u-r. <>r worth it“This job allows me to help the environe"“>‘hiews6ij.udl(l^. Mi IW-™' pcom- I Do you J+P Inrj Ju&+ remember? w. — f Perfect attendance rHave you i r’w-"m wa m °pcn up. Tnjf we tail undnesses and mdusHundreds o ’ smaB 1 never even tries across the statu mm heard of may never 'he p3S‘|C,? r filed for unemploy. iSeEfiK due K> closures or reduced business. As states begin Eer issue will be how lone it will take tor ®u tomers to feel confident about vis, ,ng their favorite stores again. Fhc overarch­ ing issue spanning all the concern >. hat, as tax collections are plummeting, welfare spending is on the rise as more people are losing their jobs or not returning to work. How does the governor expect to keep the wheels of government turning and pay all the bills when her financial pipeline is all but closed? , . Not understanding lhe governor s logic. I woke up Sunday to a rainy day and sug­ gested to my wife that we head to Indiana where that state has opened its doors and where we might get a glimpse of how life has been slowly, but responsibly, restored. I booked a haircut online and arranged to take my wife out to dinner at a local restaurant that has been allowed to open its doors. We headed south to Fort Wayne and I have to say 1 was impressed. At the hair­ cutting salon, only one person at a time was allowed at the greeting counter and only four chairs were available, all divided by plastic shields. Everyone wore a mask and plastic gloves, and the entire process - from beginning to end - was all about keeping customers safe. The young lady who cut my hair was so happy to be back after having been off since lhe beginning of March. She had received only one unemployment check, has a child and rent to pay. She said she relics on the tips and benefits she receives to survive. During our conversation, she asked me if I had been to their salon before, and 1 responded that I was from Michigan. “Michigan," she replied. “You came all this way to get a haircut?” To which I responded yes and that I also was impressed with the measures she was tak­ ing to keep her customers safe. I found the same situation at the local restaurant where diners were called on their cell phones when their tabic was ready. We ordered from a disposable paper menu, had no condiments on the table and found everyone working in the restaurant wore gloves, a mask, and did their best to impress customers with the safety mea­ sures that were in place. It was great to get a haircut and dine in a restaurant once again, but, more impor­ tantly. it was worth lhe trip to see how Indiana is reopening its retail stores and service businesses and doing a great job in the process. I understand our governor’s message of doing our part to protect each of us and our families from the spread of COVID-19, but it’s imperative that she focuses on our economic stability as well. “It’s crucial that all businesses do every­ thing in their power to protect their work­ ers, customers, and their families." said Whitmer in her Monday press conference, “and. as we approach Memorial Day weekend. 1 encourage everyone to be smart and be safe." I think the citizens of Michigan gel it. They understand the importance of social distancing and washing hands, but they’re losing their patience with policies with which they don’t necessarily agree. They want their freedom back. They want to make decisions on how they live their lives, understanding that what they do will have an impact on others around them. Io continue keeping businesses from opening up. though, will just add to the list of bankruptcies, expand unemployment and put the state in a financial situation that could take years to overcome. Michigan gets it! Let’s get back to work sa e y so that our business and industries can survive and once again fill govern­ ment cotters with the money it needs iodo the job ot providing for its citizens. Happy Memorial Day! Be safe, keep >our distance and wash those hands. Fred Jacobs. CEO. J-Ad Graphics Inc. �Broadband funding not rural enough To the editor: Re-Kiing last week’s Banner 1 joyed with the article about the I \n s ing $11.8 million lorbnndl n. ° !’PT’ the county . That was £ r V “ the aniele iisting .he town'sHp ' receive the expansion, which , Rutland, Yankee Springs it 1 ”Sl,"gS’ Woodland. Castleton, Hone arJton» Maple Grove. 0(K’ Bak,morc and The article also states that the USDA Reconnect Program has provided an opportu­ nity to expand affordable and reliable internet service to additional rural areas of BarryCounty What about the residents of Assyria Tbwnshp? As I sit here with limited and expensive satellite inteniet waiting two to three minutes for a page to load, it appears to me we arc ignored possibly because of low population density. But then isn’t that what this grant is for? It s hard to expand affordable and reliable internet service to niral areas when one does not exist. How much service is currently available to some of these areas, including townships not listed? Yes. they may be worthy of an expanded network, but 1 live in Assyria Township and Maple Grove Township is across the road and an option is not available to me because 1 am out of the service area. It looks like some locations receiving grant money already have options other than satel­ lite. while the residents of Assyria Township have no choice in the matter. This grant has failed those of us who live in this rural area of Barry County without a town or village. Dennis Mapes. Assyria Township Airport decision doesn't make sense Tb the editor: The Hastings airport terminating the lease of Affordable Metal does not make any sense to someone not directly involved with the situation. Here is the closest analogy I can come up with: If someone trespasses on your land to pick up trash, you can technically file charges for trespassing. But that would be ridiculous. Whoever pushed this situation apparently has way too much time on their hands. They arc making hard-working, productive people struggle for no reason. Jeremy Boge, Hastings Trump & Co. approach simplifies everything To tlie editor: don’t need to worry about other people. The 1 want to thank President Donald Trump. good of the whole is no longer a concern, it is U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch what I want that matters. The loss of family, McConnell, and the GOP leadership for show­ friends and my church is a small price to pay ing me what it is to be a true American patriot. to become an American patriot. When you write your rebuttals, remember For the longest time. 1 thought there were two sides to each story-. If you disagreed with that I am using the GOP model and you are somebody, there was a way to sit down and stupid, denying me my Constitutional rights discuss the situation and work out an agree­ and persecuting me. Thank you. Daffy Donald. Moscow Mitch ment. These last four years have shown me that I am totally wrong. and the rest of the Great Oppressive Party for If someone doesn’t agree with me. remove showing me what it is to be a true American them from my life. They are stupid; it’s fake patriot. And. remember, when we are two news; they are try ing to persecute me. There separate nations, our wall will be better than - ■ is no need to talk to them. You must yell at yours. With hate in my heart like the president them, not let them speak. Call them derogato­ ry names. If you want to protest, you must wants. Dave Carr. bring a gun to prove your sincerity. Hastings This approach simplifies my life. Now. I (Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: •All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writers name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor's discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of "cards of thanks" will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. . We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. The Hastings BdlUlCI* Devoted to lhe interests of Barry County since 1856 MMraiv Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. N M-43 Highway • Phono: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 1J e releases naws&-adgaplucs.com • Aaiwtanj; eas&j-aOgraphics.com Ne*S and press re™____________________________ Frederic Jacobs publisher & CEO Hank cFOUUr*n9 • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT . C'«<Mens, J'S*। * 8 20 am. to 500 pm ° Scolt Ommen tv .. Mike Gilmore ColL2n c 'e’d Jennie Yonke?eenE9l0S,on Subscription Rates; $45 per yea, in Ba, c $50 per year in Mining countie? ,NEWSROOM• $55 pur year elsewhere Brett Bremer (Spo^c Tay:cr Owens Greg Chandler Ml 49058-0188 al Ml 4>O5b y Guest Commentary ■ 1 Remembermg heroes this Memorial Day : Every crisis has new heroes. During the 9/11 attacks, they were the first rcspondets running into burning and crumbling buildings as others ran out. Now. during the coronavirus pandemic, the most visible heroes are the health care professionals, who are saving oth­ ers and risking their own lives while doing so. These heroes have much in common with the people we honor today - America’s fallen veterans. They are men and women who have sacrificed their own lives so others could live. They arc both elite and ordinary. They are elite in the sense of character. Giving your life so others could live is lhe ultimate definition of selflessness. They are ordinary in that they represent the diverse fabric of our country. They are rich and poor, black and white, male and female. They come from every ethnicity and back­ ground. In short, they looked like anyone of us. As we celebrate the selfless and untiring performances of the healthcare workers during lhe COVID-19 pandemic, it brings to mind the military medics, doctors and nurses who sacrificed their lives while treating others on the battlefield. One such hero was Pharmacist Mate Third Class Jack Williams. The Navy Reserve corpsman was only 20 years old when he landed on I wo Jima 75 years ago. On March 3, 1945, James Naughton, a Marine in Williams’ unit, was wounded by a grenade. While under intense enemy fire, Williams dragged Naughton to a shallow depression and treated his wounds. Williams used his own body as a screen and was shot four times. Yet he continued. After he treated Naughton, Williams dressed his own wounds. He then proceeded to treat another Marine, despite his own immense pain. While heading to the rear, he was hit by a sniper’s bullet and killed. For his actions. Petty Officer Williams was awarded the Medal of Honor. We also remember Anny veterans like Lt. Sharon Lane. According to her biographer, Philip Bigler. Lt. Lane threw herself into her work as a nurse. While serving in Colorado, she requested a transfer to Vietnam. “Fherc, at least, you arc busy 12 hours a day, six or seven days a week,” she said in a 1968 letter to her parents. Her dedication was obvious, even as she treated enemy Viet Cong soI<Jiers who would return the favor by kicking. cursing and spit­ ting at their American captOrs In the early morning of June g |%9 Sharon’s tour■ ot duty ended A s rocket struck the hospital. u Sharo|) A was killed in action at age 25. !f she her skills as a nurse might still be benefit ng us durjnc current crisis. But not an of lhe hcj^s wor|_.ng dunng the CO^ 'J Pandemic are in the healthcare industry- Grocer firsl responders, delivery workers and dnve.(h„ ,, Durant employees are jus .1 few of () k we rely on to pro de vltal fo> ££ |y while risking ihur own safety The military’ abo has pational k k.fivers, cooks and administrative « all have paid the ulti­ mate price. At n land or in the air, mili­ tary service requir great risk. Roy Knight Jr. was a pi|o( Air Force. He 'vas ^wn May 19. 1967, while attacking a on the Ho Chi Minh trail in Laos. 1 1 ^^huniously promoted to colonel.J;* J a joint team from the Defense Agency dis covered and 1* lntified Col. Knight s remains. . When his re • anjved a( DaIlaS- j oxe Field, a crowd ' ‘ Sphered to witness the dignified tri,n?.s. Aflag-draped casket from theSouih''tsl/'trlines jet into the recep­ tive arms of the military' honor guard. One defense of our nation since the founding of’ observer reported that the entire crowd fell this great Republic. Not all have died from enemy fire. Some silent. The Southwest flight was piloted by anoth­ have died from diseases that have too oflefi er Air Force veteran. Col. Knight’s son. festered around war zones. Deaths from dis-' Bryan. Bryan Knight was only 5 years old ease and accidents often outnumbered casual-, when he said goodbye to his lather as the lies caused by enemy weapons. During the, Spanish American War, 60 soldiers of the all­ elder Knight left for Vietnam. This is yet another legacy these heroes black 24th Infantry- Regiment volunteered t6' leave behind, a legacy that includes their sons, serve as nurses. Thirty-six of them would latey daughters, grieving parents, grandparents and die of yellow fever or malaria. A generation later, the flu would kill nearly friends. Their heroic acts are sometimes per­ formed to protect those with whom they 16,000 U.S. soldiers in France during World’ War 1. Another 30,000 American service, serve. CpI. Jason Dunham was a squad leader members died in stateside camps. These metr with lhe Third Battalion, 7th Marines in Iraq. and women could have had isolated safely in' After his squad discovered AK-47s in a their homes. But they knew they had an; Toyota Land Cruiser April 14. 2004, the important job to do. a mission to accomplish. enemy insurgent exiled and engaged in hand- They were all on a mission to serve. Even when the enemy is an invisible virus; to-hand fighting with lhe unit. The driver or a microscopic germ, the sacrifices made are dropped a grenade. To save his fellow’ Marines, CpI. Dunham just as meaningful. Tlie U.S. military has* made lhe ultimate sacrifice. He threw himself already lost service members to COVID-19. * This Memorial Day as we continue to' on the grenade and tried to use his helmet to shield lhe blast. Severely wounded by the honor those who fell for us in battle, let’s also: grenade’s fragments, CpI. Dunham was taken pause to remember those who have also sacri- ( ficed their lives while serving others. off life-suppon eight days later. May God bless them and may God bless । Dunham died so other Marines could live. He. loo, was awarded the Medal of Honor for you for remembering them here today. his gallantry'. The American Legion Approximately 1 million men and women of the U.S. military have lost their lives in Your Success Is Our Business Get professional results and unbeatable value from the local specialists in business services! Business Cards • Signs, Banners & Posters • Printing A. Copying • l aminating • Marketing Materials • Brochures & I landbooks • And Much More! ; Let us customize your promotional materials here! Contact Tv Greenfield, Steve Skedgell or Jennie Yonker 269-945-9554 �Page 6 - Thursday. May 21, 2020- The HasW Banner fl fl Hastings schools set firm date for graduation ceremonies vole for its own budget timeline. • A public hcarjn ^inp fnr the llu-sbn^s . . • ••------- 1-., i,. ;t Schools proposed 4, 2(nn "?l budget was Then Patton rescinded his motion to table it Ihvlor Owens scheduled for 6:45 p td ,y. *”‘c 29’ and the board voted against the resolution. Staff Writer i Hing< Middle I lastings Area Schools is going to celebrate During its meeting last Friday, the Delton the Commons Arca (]{' n its high school seniors’ graduation on Kellogg Board of Education also did not School. The school । ‘ »J,‘.uulnr meeting will follow at 7 pirn s rtt approve the proposed budget. Thursday, July 23. . The district rccc « c p 340 donation “The dale is firm: lhe format and details we Hastings and Delton are the only two K-12 from lhe estate truMof *’‘ ^cher Thomas have to leave flexible.” Superintendent Dan in lhe ISD. Remenap said during a virtual Board of districts rn,t Barry’ ISD Superintendent Rich Franklin Stephens. • The board Un „ ni approved a land told The Banner Wednesday that the budget Fxliication meeting Monday. The graduation format will depend on the swap with an anonvn^ 7 Jrtv owner. sent to Hastings and Delton last week was -1-1 win recei^P^uth of The the guidelines for gathering and social distancing preliminary, and did not incorporate cuts as a high school campus to the athletic that are in place at that time. result of the pandemic. The .state requires “We have plans for just about anything, ISDs to .send their budgets before the Michigan fields, m exchange fOr ;.ricl west of there. Remenap said. Those plans cover virtual, 2 acres in the annual revenue conference, which look place The district gains in-person ami even vehicular ceremonies. is‘paying all costs Friday and offered some insight on the stale’s swap, and lhe landow Plans also are in the early stages for what involved. rJ back-to-school this fall will look like, which anticipated funding. “We do not have inin,„iiate plans for the “The budget will look very different in also covers a broad set of circumstances. land, but we coU|d Zntually being ’’ Franklin said. Remenap is putting together a retuni-to- June, projects, etc.' He also noted that the local districts only used lor nature wa|ks school task force to determine the district’s approve the ISD’s general fund, which does Remenap told The BaniK.r -We obviously are or dcvclop the options. noi include other sections, such as special not in any position |(J “Once we do gel to meet again, the kids land in the near fmUre „ education. will be safe, health) and lhe facility will be • 1 he board accept retirements from Star The process of sending the budget to local sparkling," he said. districts is to get feedback, Franklin said, and Elementary InstnictiOnal Assistant Deborah In other action, the board unanimously high school Healthcare whether Hastings and Delton approve the Carpenter, voted against accepting the proposed Barry Paraprofessional Henry, Southeastern budget or not would not affect the intermedi ­ Intermediate Schoo! District genend fund Elementary Young 5S Teacher Loretta Kidder ate school district’s ability to finalize it. budget for 2020-2021. and middle school Hislorv Teacher Stephen Franklin said he would be working with Trustee Dan Patton initially proposed 7 both Hastings and Delton Kellogg school Laubaugh. tabling the resolution until the board finance • fhe annual hayficld concert has been boards to answer any questions and update committee could leant more about the budget, canceled. and find out how the ISD is preparing for state them on the ISD budget. In other business: funding cuts. “I don’t know how, in reality, anybody can put together a budget right now that doesn’t have substantial cuts going into next year,” Patton said. Hastings Director of Operations Tim Berlin said the ISD might require a “yes” or “no” _ _ SOCIA" Honoring military programs. rou ...w, . disability benefits through one program but not the other, or you may qualify for Ixith. Depending on your situation, some of your family members, including your dependent children or spouse, may be eligible to receive Social Security benefits. Want more information? Visit ssa.gov/ woundedwarriors for answers to commonly asked questions or to find information about Vonda Van I il Social Security Public AJfairs Specialist On Memorial Day. our nation honors military service members who have given their lives for our country. Families, friends and communities pause to remember the many great sacrifices of our military and ensure their legacy lives on in the freedoms we all enjoy. We recognize these heroes who. in President Lincoln’s words, "gave the hist the Thinking application about process.retirement? Military full measure of devotion." The benefits we provide can help the service members can receive Social Security families of military’ service members. For Ixmefits in addition to their military retirement example, widows, widowers and their benefits. For details, read the Military Service dependent children may be eligible for Social page of our Retirement Planner, available at Security survivors’ benefits. You can learn ssa .gov/planners/re tire/veterans Jit ml. more about those benefits at ssa.gov/survivors. Please share this information with the We also offer support to our wounded warriors. Social Security benefits protect military' families in your community. To the veterans who bravely served and veterans when an injury’ prevents them from died for our country, and to the military returning to active duty or performing other service members who serve today, we honor work. Wounded military service members can receive expedited processing of their Social and thank you. Security disability claims. Vomla VanTil is thepublic affairs specialist Are you a veteran with a 100 percent Jar West Michigan. You may write her do permanent and total compensation rating from Securir> Administration, J045 Knapp the U.S. Department of Veterans .Affairs? We will expedite your disability claim. Both lhe NE. Grand Rapids Ml 49525 or via email to Department of Veteran Affairs and the Social vonda vantil@ssa.gov. Security Administration have disability New program providing food to at-risk seniors I Marriage jQcenses Edward Lincoln Youngs. Hastings and Stephany Lee Schild, Hastings Ashlie Lin Stanton, Lake Odessa. Keegan Lee Stoltzfus, Alto Kenneth Guyla Pease, Dowling and Roberta Jo Holdridge, Hastings Alyssa Christine Houskamp, Onalaska, \VI and Tyler Michael Hobson. Holmen, WI Terry Randall Brown, Indianapolis. IN and Mia Faye Kyser, Indianapolis, IN Shawn Michael Beltran, Plainwell and Abigail Faith Fowler, Delton Heather Lee Cole. Middleville and Connor Joseph Ivens. Middleville Bailey Sue Jones. Hastings and Juanmiguel Marcelo Tejeda, Hastings Mark Kenith Hubbell, Hastings and Stacey Anne Price. Hastings Mitchell Alan Philley. Hastings and Catrina Kathleen Paepke, sand Lake Joshua Lee McCord. Plainwell and Nora Mae Burkhardt, Plainwell CareWell Services Southwest is working in partnership with USDA Farmers, the Food Bank Council, and food hubs in Barry and Calhoun counties to distribute 600 boxes of fresh food to local seniors experiencing food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic. 'Fite boxes will be provided by Van Eerdcn Foodservice and will be filled with locally grown products. They will be divided among food distribution partners in Hastings, Battle Creek, Marshall, and Albion for delivery to seniors, who are considered al higher risk of serious illness from COVID-19. “We are pleased to work with several of these groups to ensure that homebound seniors, aged 60 and over, have access to the frxxl they need during this time as they con­ tinue to shelter in place and limit their expo­ sure to the vims,” CareWell Services CEO Karla Falcs said in a news release. This effort is the result of a partnership with the state and the USDA Fanners to Families Food Box Program announced Monday by Gov. Whitmer. The initiative will join other programs in the area combating food insecurity among seniors and other vul­ nerable populations. Fanners to Families Food Boxes will be distributed to local seniors by the Barry County United Way’s Fresh Food Initiative, Battle Creek’s RISE program, the Calhoun County Faith-Based Coalition. Albion Food Hub. and a local collaborative of agencies from Marshall led by the department of public safety. Many of these organizations have already w orked together to distribute more than 150 “quarantine boxes” to area seniors in need, and an additional 350 boxes will be packed and delivered in the near future, lhe first wave of boxes, containing recipes and ingre­ dients for iwo people to eat for 10 days, was perfectly timed, Eales said, arriving at a senior living complex in Hastings the evening it was placed under full quarantine. In addition to food supplies, boxes con­ taining hygiene and personal-care items are available to seniors sheltering in place This effort is being organized by CareWell Services with lhe help of volunteers from six other organizations and funded by a grant from the United Way of Battle Creek and Kalamazoo. “Our community has done amazing work to see that seniors lo not need to worry' about food." Fales said. ‘Tve been so impressed by the kindness and care shown to our seniors by so many groups in both Calhoun and Barry' counties. This is what community means, and it is the true outworking of our vision state­ ment. ‘a community where people are cared for with respect and dignity.’” For information on food assistance, seniors and adults with disabilities in need of food or for other unmet needs, individuals may call CareWell Services’ Senior Resource Call Center weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 pan. at 269-441-0930 or email info@carewellservices.org. City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED 2020/2021 FISCAL YEAR BUDGET The City of Hastings will hold a Public Hear­ ing for the purpose of hearing written and/ or oral comments from the public concerning the annual budget for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021. The public hearing will be held at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, May 26, 2020 in City Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. 'Hie City Council will consider the bud­ get as proposed by the City Manager and pre­ sented to City Council on May 18, 2020. The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support (he proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing. All interested citizens are encouraged to attend and to submit comments. A copy of this information, the entire proposed budget, and additional background materials are available for public inspection from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday at the Office of the City Clerk. 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days notice to the City (’Jerk al 269.945.2468 or TDD call relay ser­ vices 800.649.3777. MICHAEL KINNEY » PLUMBING Ew Licensed Master Plumber Licensed Journeyman Plumber New construction, remodel, repair drain cleaning. BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEATERS Same Day Installation \«. U \A > Office (269) 948-2248 Mobile (269) 838-511, BIB BS®!® SECL'KIIA ,v,[ATTE---- Financial FOCUS Provided by the Barry County offices of Edward Jones ^ Member S1PC Kevin Beck, AAMSO 400 W. State St., Suite B Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-4702 Andrew Cove, AAMS® 421 W. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-3553 Why should you see a financial advisor? The social distancing and stay-at-home orders necessitated by lhe coronavirus have led many of us to feel isolated. Still, we’ve fought back through social media, “virtual" gatherings and walks in lhe neighborhood, where we could greet friends and neighbors (from 6 feci away). But when you’re dealing with the financial effects of the virus and you’re investing alone, you could encounter some problems that may prove costly. Of course, with so much investment-related information available online, on television and in any number of periodicals, it’s not surprising that some people feel they can invest without any assistance. But the volatility of lhe financial markets over the past few months has also pointed to the dangers of going solo in lhe investment world. And you might find that a professional financial advisor can help you in several ways, including the following: Taking emotions out of investing. During this period of market turbulence, many self-guided investors are letting their emotions drive their investment decisions. As a result, they sell investments when their price is down, "locking in” their losses. Furthermore, if they then stay out of the financial markets, they will miss out on lhe eventual recover}' - and some of the biggest gains in market rallies usually occur right al lhe beginning. But if you work with a financial advisor who has helped you develop a personalized investment strategy based on your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon, you will be far less likely to react lo extreme market conditions by making ill-advised decisions. Maintaining perspective. When you’re putting away money for the future and you suddenly have a lol less of il, you might start to wonder if that future is somehow in jeopardy. But if you’ve been working with a financial advisor and following your investment strategy, you'll know that you don’t have to immediately cash out those investments that have lost value, and you may not need lo liquidate them for decades if they were designed for a long-term goal, such as retirement. By the time you do need to sell them, their value may well have appreciated significantly. And if you’ve got a wenconstructed portfolio, you'll also own shorter-term* less volatile investments to help meet your current cash flow needs. Understanding the history of investing. The recent market instability is unique in the sense that its cause-a worldwide pandemic - is so highly unusual, and it hopefully will be a once-in-alifetime experience. Typically, prolonged market downturns arc triggered by explainable financial or economic factors, such as the bursting of lhe “dot-com" bubble in 2000. However, market drops of 20 percent or more - generally referred to as bear markets - are not at all unusual and have liappened every few years over lhe past several decades. Financial advisors arc well aware of this history and share it with their clients. And for many people, the knowledge dial "we've been here before” is reassuring and makes it easier for them to continue following their investment strategies. The road lo your financial goals is a long one, with many twists and turns. So you might like to have some experienced company along lhe way. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Junes Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARlNG Tliankijou fonjour patience Notice is hereby given that the Hasting5 Council will hold a public hearing on Tuesday. 26, 2020 at 7:00 PM in the Council Cha^berS’ second floor of City Hall, 201 East State SVee*’ Hastings, Michigan. Laundry & Dry Cleaning Services Tor Our flatten S? QUESTION ask us... The purpose of the Public Hearing Is f0r city Cod°cl to hear comments and make a determination °n necessity of improvements and the establish60* of a special assessment district for the Do^nloWn Parking Special Assessment District for fiscal Vear 2020-21. The City will provide necessary reasonable a'ld services to disabled persons wishing to alteOd these hearings upon seven days notice 10 Clerk of the City of Hastings, 201 East State Swedt Hastings, Michigan 49058. Telephone 2$$^' 2468 or TDD call relay services 800/649.3777’ Jane M. Saurman City Clerk 218 E State St.. Halting*! , JaneM.S<2 City 01 W/k1 •.,; .s-l1,./ 10 3 p-.. Hulst Cleaners Pick-Up Station Pre-Planning Services *• Traditional and Cremation Services £ ’ large Parking bit - Handicap Accessible • Serving All Faiths ’ Pre-atTangenicnr 'lYansfers Accepted >> ... _______ 945-9673 OEs 1 328 s- Broadway, MI <*9058 269-945-32S2 < ww.Hastings, Rlrrbachfunenilho»ne.nei �- 7h<; Hastings Banner — Thursday, May 21, 2020 - - Page 7 m KU1,an<* Charter TownshiP/^bates airport involvement Fixmchcck A^t by having a quorum *S.O,.K’n Mct-l‘ngs "stings CHy/Bnrrx (Xu v8 ......... .. meeting on April 2?. ' 17,0,1 bo’,ri1 A letter written by \tfnr,i... owner l>on Smith and nuhiH^r L, c ^tHigs Banner 7 'met in quorum without nron-'' U,> °h‘e,:,,s the phone during the nieeti’u ”7• °' e‘ Board.” 'x,’h the Airport Al the township’s tegular Supervisor Lmry Watson sai I. or any Ixxird member, need ivm>; go .0 a meeting on, ’JV’“" ‘° going to reprexem R,tl|.|ln| T . would be a go<xl ide < 1 ' 11 your own time is up to you " K" > <'U d" on Township Treasurer Sands Greenfield pointed out (hai t|K. iounshj_ : . U P-ed of seven members aXK ,^ Watson, frustces Brenda Bellmore and Mmr MUh-^U,l"C"dei1 lhC airiX,rt bOi’rd so tin re was no quorum present "You couldn’t tell W|„, was <>„ the nKC|in,, because it was over the phone.” Watson said At no point did I memion Rutland rownship. Spencer said. And that s not what I’m concerned about.” Greenfield said. “What I’m concerned about is that they thought we were in violation of lhe Open Meetings Act .” Spencer said he did not introduce himself as a tnistee during that meeting. Smith refuted that, saying each attendee lo the airport board meeting introduced themselves before sneak­ ing. ‘ Watson emphasized. “They were there on their own time.” Wc need to make it clear (hat we were not in violation of the Open Meetings Act." Greenfield replied. “Mr. Smith needs to be made aware that there was not a quorum there and I don’t want the people who read The Banner to think Ihere was." Greenfield said. During lhe township meeting, attended by both Aiqxirt Manager Mark Noteboom and Airport /Xssislant Manager Mark Andei^on. Watson clarified the township’s position on airport business in a conversation with Noteboom. At the township’s April 29 meeting. Bellmore had expressed concerns about pur­ chases at the airport, given recent economic hardship. “We were somewhat out of line last month,” Watson said at the May 13 meeting, adding that they have nothing to say about purchases made for the airport. Noteboom agreed with Watson’s comment, then passed out literature to board members explaining how airports are funded through federal grants, passenger facility charges, and tenant rents and fees - not taxpayer dollars. Smith, who rents hangar space from Noteboom for Smith’s business Afforable Metal LLC. had his lease terminated during that aiqx>rt meeting. Airport board member Jon Smelker. who is a Barry County commis­ sioner. made the motion to give Smith 18 months to move out. “I would say that the township (Rutland) is attempting to get lhe airport board to do things.” Smith told l he Banner this week. Watson denied that lhe township had any hand in the airport board decision to ask BRING EVERYTHING Hastings City/Barry County Airport Manager Mark Notebo Smith and his business to leave. “We had no part in that." Watson •‘aid. “That is an airport board problem, nothing to do with Rutland. Mr. Smith can come in here and we will find him a place to do business in Rutland, because we treat (hem fair and equal. Nobody gets an advantage or a disadvantage over anyone wanting to do business in Rutland.” Clerk Robin Hawthorne said, “I’m going lo go on a little tirade right now. From the getgo. the only thing Rutland Township was interested in was the properly taxes - that’s all. Just saying what’s fair is fair. If you are gome to run a business in Rutland Township, like everyone else that runs a business in Rutland Township, you should be paying taxes. I le was not. “1 don’t want him to get moved out. 1 wish he could stay there.Then it got pulled into this whole whoop-de-doo that has nothing to do w ith Rutland Charter Township." Smith said he does not believe there is an airport tenant in the state who pay s property taxes to the township in which (he airport is located. “(here arc live or six oilier businesses on the airport property that aren’t being addressed,” Smith said. "I don’t know what it is about me. 'Illis .sounds like a personal attack from a government entity.” He compared the situation to other proper­ ties in Rutland Township where there arc businesses leasing property and not paying property taxes directly to the township because lhe property owner pays the taxes. Smith also noted that the township Master Plan states that lhe airport land use includes airplane hangars ’’along with some commer­ cial and light industrial activity.” “It just shows they're not even aware,” Smith said. “It’s like they think I’ve got some kind of special deal out here and J don't.” At the close of the meeting, Noteboom addressed the board again to speak on both (he township board’s involvement and the airpon board’s handling of the Affordable nas toforo the Rutland Charter Township board of trustees. ‘ ‘You know we rc all suppoSed (n pn)fes sionals in what wc. o. Noteboom said -Whenever an up, if you have a couple people cotm c s,<je anj V()ur var | would realb < I Prectaie it if - anj We should all do th* - k>ok into it with our due diligence on m<Ics -It’s a two-way street, I agree," Watson said. , . -If you ever need anything at the airport. I have an open-door policy,’ Noteboorn said. “You can come there anytime and |ook al anything you want. < have nothing to hide. We will show you the facts and how things work. From now on. I hope that works. ’•'Ihere were so many people calling about so many issues that they shouldn’t have even known about. We ve got to curb that stuff because we have a lew individuals that arc bad.” “As far as the taxes go - that’s between you and Affordable Metal. I hat is not my issue. That’s not lhe aiqxirts issue. That’s between you and Mr. Smith.’’ “And that’s the only thing we want any part of.” Greenfield said. “We also want some (tax dollars) on the building you own.” Watson said. “You can .see,” Noleboom replied. “The motion that was made for Donnie (Smith ) to get out of there early because of lhe tax issue, Mr. Smelkctsuid. »H»cn he made the motion, quote. ‘I don't want him here because he has a tax advantage over any other roofing business in this county. Therefore, he shouldn’t be here.’ ’’ “That should’ve never been done,” Noleboom added. “That’s.,.” Watson began. “Never should’ve been done” Noteboorn said, cutting Watson off. “lfs not illegal for Donnie lo be there al all.” “1 thought you couldn’t be on airport prop­ erty unless y our business dealt with aeronau­ tics.” Greenfield said “I hats false, totally false,” Noteboom said. “It does not have to be an aviation-relat­ ed business. If you go to the Barry County website...” “I’m not going anywhere. We have an attorney working on it," Watson said, cutting Noteboom off. “Just look up on Barry County website air­ port.’ Noteboom said. "You’ll .see on there that they invite insurance business, restau­ rants, sheet metal, and it’s been there for 10 years. Our own community invites them to lhe aiqxul and yet we’re kicking him (Smith) ouf and this situation made it worse." Watson said. “h appears to me that he> (Smith) has an unlevcl playing field.” •If he can be there, why is he getting kicked out?’’ Greenfield asked. “Because of what’s going on right here.” Noteboom said -•Hold on!” Spencer exclaimed. “Hohl on right there.” ’• Let me finish, let me finish," Noteboom: it back. "He’s getting kicked out earlier ause of what’s going on here." qlere? In this building?" Spencer said. ’No. no because of the taxes.” Noteboorn aid. telling the board to think back lo what Smelkcr said before making the motion Co. terminate Smith’s lease. “Well." Hawthorne remarked.“that was the country commissioner saying that; not us. ; Bellmore maintained: “It was a publici, meeting and we were allowed to listen. The township board also: /' • Discussed a potential blight ordinance to’ tackle the township trash problem with junked vehicles and trash piles with Planning and Zoning Administrator lx’s Raymond. He said the township has a serious problem with peo­ ple keeping junk and trash in their yards., Some people have upwards of 20 vehicles on, their property. • Talked about the possibility of focusings on lhe township marijuana ordinance during! next month’s meeting. »•' • ?\pprovcd a verbal bid from Reynolds Surveying for $2,000 to $3,000 to survey the./ entirety of the tow nship cemetery property. •> • Had a second reading of lhe City of:. Hastings and Rutland Charter Township Jointi Planning Commission Ordinance to amend (he joint planning ordinance for the new., Generally Accepted Agricultural and.: Management Practices state rules. •Hake. OdeMa Elaine Garlock Members of the Lake Odessa Downtown Development Authority met recently to discuss the summer project of floral beauty on Fourth Avenue. Bill Rogers is chairman of the authority.The current need is for volunteers to water the planters on both sides of two blocks, Ihc village provides the,tractor, water lank. fuel and plants purchased al the local greenhouse. The DPW provides maintenance for the equipment. Volunteers are asked to sign up for three or four day shifts. The project goes through September. Business owners who have planters in front are expected to cover one shift or pay $20 for each planter in front of' their business. Ashley Barcroft, M.D., a 2005 Lakewood 1 wgraduate who grew up B______________ in Carlton Center,___ was on Fox 17 Tuesday morning with advice on’ medical care during the COVID-19 situation. Heavy rain last week brought more than 6' inches of rainfall. Homeowners had standing w ater on their Jaw ns. * When w ill we have access to our library or bank lobby? In the meantime, where can we* get copies made? SOUTHWEST BARRY COUNTY SEWER AND WATER AUTHORITY BOARD MEETING Blazing Fast Internet! TUESDAY, MAY 26TH, 2020 AT 6:30 P.M at the Prairievile Township Hall K. A. MUELLER ACCOUNTING 2-YEARTV PRICE GUARANTEE 190 CHANNELS its? including Local Channels! CALL TODAY • For $ 100 Gift Card 1-855-382-2485 iLsh C5TY OF HASTINGS Public may phone in to hear the meeting at 701-802-5385 access code: 5303438# online meeting id: swbeswa 221 South Jefferson Street Hastings, Michigan (269) 945-3547 wvjw.kamuelleraccounting.com CITY OF HASTINGS KEQ(U)EST FOF8 REQUEST FOR BIDS BBS If anyone would like to comment at this meeting, comments can be emailed to swbcswa@mei.net, or called in to the office at 269-623-3401 and they will be read to the Board at the meeting. CITY OF HASTINGS Custodial and Maintenance Services for Hastings City Hall Mowing and Maintenance Services for Hastings City Owned Property REQUEST FOR BIDS The City of Hastings Is soliciting bids for the n.nvision of Custodial and Maintenance Services for Hastings City Hall. The RFP and specifications are available front Hastings City Hall. The City of Hastings is soliciting bids fOr provj_ sion of Mowing and Maintenance ServicGs fOr varj_ ous City owned properties. The RFP and specifica­ tions are available from Hastings City Han Drinking Water Treatment Chemicals Th„ ritv of Hastings reserves the right to reject any T h n ^bids to waive any irregularit.es in the bid and all bids. bld as docrned )0 be The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in bid Proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in *he City’s best interest, Pfice and other faCf0(S considered. SSSTS? considered. p,,“ “■ nt Hustings City Hall, 201 Bids will be rec'3'v/j stings Michigan 49058 until East State Street Hast ng^ „ a( w|(jch 4:00 PM. on r'11 £ aI)d publicly read aloud -j-a'KS? as Matt Gergen nirector of Public Services Bids will be received at Hastings t y Hall, 2q-| £ast State Street. Hastings, 058 untj| z):00 PM, on Thursday, June 11 • . ^'ch tmio they 'vill be opened and publicly ‘^ug. Qids wi|| br- clearly marked on lhe u submittal Package - SEALED BIP nfl°WlNG AND Maintenance The City of Hastings, Michigan is soliciting bids for the provision of chlorine, flu­ oride, and poly-ortho phosphate for use at the City’s Drinking Water Treatment Plant. Bid proposal forms and specifications are available at Hastings City Hall. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be In the City's best interest, price and other factors considered. Sealed bids will be received al the Office of the City Clerk, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday June 3. 2020 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. All bids will ba clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package “Sealed Bid - Water Chemicals”. contract Matt Gergen .... Of p ^a*t Gergen D.recio'0’Public Setvicos Director of Public Services i 11-MIX �Pb*> 8 TMWay. K1ay a, 2020_Th8 B inwf RALLY, continued from page 1 A crowd gathered tor the ‘American Patriot Rally - Sheriffs Speak Out" event at Rosa Parks Circle in downtown Grand Rapids Monday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Leaf never went so far as to call them uncon­ stitutional. After his speech. Leaf said, that “is why we I am pretty confident that, pay judges big dollars” to make those rulings. if it went to the federal Leaf did say during his speech that he is reluctant to enforce these executive orders, Supreme Court, they partially for fear of being sued under the fed­ would rule for the people eral Civil Rights Act of 1871’s 42 U.S.C. Section 1983 which has been used to hold that want more freedom, government employees accountable for acts that want to open up their that violate the Constitution. He said he doesn’t want to chance wasting lax dollars businesses. I’m pretty which will be sorely needed during this pan­ confident of that." demic. lite Barry County sheriff w as the headliner Dar Leaf, of Monday’s event in Kent County, following up event organizers, a lawyer who has been Barry County Sheriff studying lhe legality of lhe governor’s execu­ tive orders, a middle school wrestler unhappy about seeing the stale shut down and the fact that she missed her chance to compete in the Leaf, the CSPOA’s Sheriff of lhe Year in MYWAY State Tournament, a couple of polit­ 2016, said he was pleased to share w ith the ical candidates, state Senate Majority Leader crowd of Michiganders the “great” news that Mike Shirkey. R-Clarklake. among others. “Oregon coronavirus restrictions ruled null Leaf has been lhe sheriff in Barry County and void after governor failed to get approval since 2004. He was voted to his fourth fourfrom Legislature.” year term in 2016 and is unopposed in his bid “Il is on its way, ladies and gentlemen,” he for re-election in November. He is one of a told the cheering crowd. few county sheriffs across the state who’vc Leaf fiddled with his hair in the wind as he said they will not or cannot enforce the cur­ waited a turn in front of the WOOD-TV8 and rent executive orders. Despite lhe event’s WWMT-TV Channel 3 television cameras in billing. Leaf was the lone sheriff to speak out the moments leading up to the event. He joked as part of the program. “Join some of our distinguished sheriffs as during his speech that, without a barber of his own to visit, his hair is somewhere between we encourage peace officers across the state lo uphold the constitution and refuse to being ready for a man bun and a kind of Willie Nelson look at this point. enforce illegal executive orders,” read the With just a mustache and glasses as his face American Patriot Rally - Sheriffs Speak Out covering. Leaf hugged and shook hands back­ event page on Facebook in the lead-up to lhe stage, obliged all aimers for group photos and event. “Come dressed for a special event and selfies, and took the time to chat with those we ask that, if possible, you exercise your 2nd who approached him, even on a bench in lhe Amendment right as a show of support to law background, as he looked for a bit of quiet enforcement in their fight against tyranny.” Visible guns were few. outside of the mili­ lime to prepare for his turn at lhe microphone. The Centers for Disease Control and lia members tasked with protecting the stage Prevention continues to encourage social dis­ area, a group that included members of the tancing, of at least six feet, lo help reduce the Michigan Liberty Militia. Masks also were few , outside of those w orn by media members spread of COVID-19, along with recommend­ ing against gathering in groups, staying out of assigned to cover the event for TV stations crowded places, avoiding mass gatherings, and other news organizations. Social distanc­ and. for people who are around others, to ing was not practiced by many of the observ­ cover their mouths and noses with masks or ers. other face coverings. Leaf’s introduction, calling him “a member Leaf was a bit easier on Gov. Whitmer than of the Michigan Sheriff’s Association. the speakers who preceded him and most of National Association of Chiefs of Police, life the homemade signs scattered throughout lhe member of the NR A. and a life member of the crowd that compared her actions to Nazi lead­ Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers er Adolf Hitler’s and one from a man with a Association (CSPOA),” who. for over two Trump hat designed lo resemble a pornograph­ vears. “spent time with a common law and ic website reading “Ml Governor screws over natural law- study group” drew lhe loudest entire state.” • cheer of the evening. Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf takes a moment to review his remarks before addressing the crowd of a few hundred gathered in downtown Grand Rapids. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ——------ — CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST for bids Wastewater Treatment Chemicals The Hastings, Michigan is for soliciting for the • '• On °f polymer alum,City andofsodium permanganate use atbids the City ’s ]/Va?fVIS Plant in the processing of bio-solids. Bid proposal form*? ann ewater ^eatment available at Hastings City Hall. specificatiOns are The City of Hastings the and righttotoaward reject the anybid and bdS’to Wd’ve any irregularities in the bidreserves proposals, asall dej City's best interest, price and other factors considered. * mcd 10 be in the Sealed Hastings, bids will be received at the Office theonCity Clerk lv 2ni। ^ast State Street, Michigan 49058 until 4:00 of p.m. Wednesd at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. All bid^mZ3, 2o^ ly marked on the outside of the submittal package “Sealed Bid ^ becle^Chemicals". ^^ater Malt Gergen Director of Public Services Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf address­ es the crowd as the final speaker Monday evening at the “American Patriot Rally Sheriffs Speak Out" at Rosa Parks Circle in downtown Grand Rapids. Many mem­ bers of the crowd gathered to share their displeasure with Michigan’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe" executive orders. (Photo by Brett Bremer) “Who runs this state?” Whitmer’s voice asked over ihc loud speakers as organizers turned the governor’s own phrase against her. “Tlie people.” chanted the crowd over and over again throughout the night. That wasn’t the only time the governor’s voice was used out of context over the event’s sound system. Leaf didn’t leave the governor entirely out of the comedy routine early on in his speech though. “If you’re hen; l0 hcarsheriff pick a fight with the governor, that light is already picked," Leaf said. -| just want to l« teal up-front with you guys Most of us here are Christians, and we are supposed to pray for our leaders. That includes our governor, and that includes our president And I mean a g<x>d prayer. Don’t prilv they get hit by a bus all right. We can’t be J-lsljn« buses like that. Come on. c "But. seriously guys . supposed to be praying lor our |cad’ |f you’re a true Chr.st.an, you belies, lhGive that power ... prayer.lt is happen,,, •• Leaf did sympathiseid, die governor hav­ ing to deal with her s . ringing °fi 'he hook day and night, and h‘X" decis ons. The shen^^e and national profile has risen sin ™ inl^ieW 1,0 News.nnud.zXpd^ 1 lru,.cdwhal « deemed a common s,.,'" .pproa.lt to deal­ ing with lhe pandemic • Who wants to v„|u ,wkc the phone calls that She has cZkcr ..try '‘ay -’ he asked the crowd. ’V' d to W »« day - one charge. 1P1’.°"\1=u-n charging u (WO limes a day. ve h..s been going crazy y phonc " •I can’t imagine dl)u , ,,L. with a whole state watching th 1111,1 ’ |hee things around. You think a ^^7' is juggl’11!1 this over here. Shc\ .his °v<*r l*ierC’ Ami. eventually, a.J .^Imf , (t, |U1vc too many balls up in (|lv al1 p(0,n£ to come Clashing dou'„ .™d ° wh«' 111,11 want.” ’ Ixaf said he is ccn, . lll(j h alone in cuminp up with |n ’ 'j1 >uit w,“‘l 10 close ami what to kVvi> Vc,sl me sure a committee i'^“ ^ < He would certainly hUv k,np ittees « coini”' ,hoSc decisions were up to him. he said. Whitmer Uxik some wind out of his sails Monday, he said, with her announcement hours earlier that restrictions were being low­ ered throughout Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and in the northern Lower Peninsula, lhe ‘Traverse City Region.” in the governor’s Safe Start Plan Executive Order 2020-92 allows for the reopening of retail businesses, office work that cannot be done remotely, and restaurants and bars, with limited seating in the two northern Michigan regions, beginning Friday, May 22. “This is a big step, but we must all remem­ ber to continue doing our part to protect our­ selves and our families from the spread of COVID-19.” Whitmer said in her Monday press release. “It’s crucial that all businesses do everything in their power to protect their workers, customers, and their families. And, as we approach Memorial Day weekend, 1 encourage everyone to be smart and be safe. My team and I will continue to work around the clock to protect the people of Michigan.” Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Chief Medical Executive and Chief Deputy Director Dr. Joneigh Khaldun said, “The data shows that these regions in Michigan are seeing consistent encouraging trends when it comes to the number of cases, deaths, and the percent of tests that are posi­ tive for CO VID-19. “It’s important to note that these businesses must take special precautions to protect Michiganders. I also encourage everyone to continue to wear a mask in public, maintain a 6-foot distance from others, and lo remain vigilant in washing their hands often. This will help prevent a second surge in cases in our state.” Ixaf said he wondered why some areas, like Chippewa County, which had tew cases of COVID-19 and no deaths due to the dis­ ease. were being held “hostage" with the same restrictions as lhe rest of the state for at least six weeks. After the event. Leaf drew similarities between Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and Barry County. “Oh. yeah, they call us lhe U.P. of the .southern peninsula." he said. Leaf would like to see reduced restrictions in Barry County this weekend, lhe same as has been done in lhe Upper Peninsula. “The reality is. this COVID is not going away,” Leaf said. “We need to keep the econ­ omy open and accept the fact that people are going to get sick from COVID, or w e’re going to lock il on up and we’re still going to get sick from COVID and then the economy is going to crash and people are going lo lose their jobs. They ’rc going to ask for mure bail­ outs from the federal government and so on. “I think there are better ways to do it.” In his speech. lx*af shared concerns about fiscal issues that he expects governmental bodies, including schools, to experience in lhe coming months. He shared his appreciation for police officers. corrections officers and dispatchers dining his speech, and, afterward, he offered glowing remarks fur the BarryEaton District Health Department. “I think our health department right now is lhe best in the state on lhe reporting,” Leaf said, “lhe way they report how many cases we ve had, lotal, how many people have recovered, anil then how many current cases we have, and how many deaths. They don’t call it a death from COVID, they say COVIDrelatcd. My hat’s oft to them. I think they’re doing outstanding " The slate’s most recent data showed Barry County with 57 confirmed cases of COVID19 as of Monday afternoon and one death attributed to the disease, lite numbers in Eaton County were at 165 confirmed cases and six deaths. BEDHD reported 9 active cases in Barry County. Ix*af called the armed militia members to join him at the front of the stage as he gave everyone in the crowd a lesson on his inter­ pretation of the Constitution and the distribu­ tion of powers. He called helpers up from the crowd and brought back some of the earlier speakers for the lesson, passing out shields and explaining that the federal government exists lo proleci people’s rights and lhe stale governments then hold the federal govern­ ment in check. Then he got to lhe .shield representing the local government agencies, emblazoned with “Barry County." “Their job is keeping that state from being over-reaching. Their job is lo call down to Lansing when tilings are out of line and say, ‘Hey, get your act together.’” Leaf said of agencies like the Barry' County Sheriff’s Office. Leaf said after the speech that he hasn’t made an official call to the state Capitol for those puqxises yet. “1 am waiting to see what lhe judges are going to say,” he said. “Il is going to go all lhe way up to the stale supreme court.” he added. “I am real eager lo see how they are going to rule. I am pretty confident that, if it went lo the federal Supreme Court, they would rule for the people that want more freedom, that want to open up their businesses. I’m pretty confident of that.” Leaf said a well-regulated militia, a group of private citizens trained for military' duty, is a necessary part of this country should the federal, stale and local government organiza­ tions all fail to uphold citizens’ rights. "1 go to the Second Amendment rallies every y ear. I go there for a good cry . because these guys got better equipment than I got.” Leaf remarked later. During the rally. Grand Rapids Police Department officers were stationed around the outskirts of Rosa Parks Circle on foot and bicycles, along with a mounted division from the Kent County Sheriff’s Department. Monroe Center was closed off lo vehicle traf­ fic. The occasional passing car or pick-up on Monroe Ave NW to the west of ihc park, blared horns in celebration of the event and a giant frump float rolled by. The event opened with a pair of young dancers, the playing of the “Star Spangled Banner.” ”1 he Pledge of Allegiance” and a prayer. American Hags were the primary decora­ tion, but paraphernalia supporting President Donald Trump appeared as the crowd grew throughout lhe event. I here was little counter protest to the rally. One young man questioned why the crowd that gathered had not offered similar outrane during the Flint waler crisis, and a couple brandished “#dumlivesmaddcr” signs while questioning rally-goers’ self-esteem. I hose individuals were all wearing masks. An anti abortion contingent was represent­ ed along with some protesting the possibility of forced vaccinations. /Vcioss Monroe Avenue, a memorial was set up at the “LOVF” sculpture to remember those who have lost their lives to COVID-19 �The Hasting') Banner - Thursday. May 21. 2020 "i,h “ itlp-'1' j n> Ik- CalNil £ h"’p I*0' to this couple and their six children, ranging in aye from 5 1/2 to 13 years. fl look back at the stories and columns on local history In the Hastings Banner La-treridy broke*’ anj 1 ,rcu several nnv ‘IuiI '|.’"1Mk b'-ddinP ftoni ■>Sr'!" *,? fa'y ,"rc«l down>t‘”r-.„ire 1 ?bl- c 4rT>mg <n)t ;ls much fu^' kitchen *n «’e oven. stme. Mother |,UV to >evern!;‘nd h-mded canned c who had conic fn^’^Jine lhe ^ke| school ind "efe ’ t them 10 •s:‘fi,ty n ’de stainvay. They e^ tjirough to lflc ut (iK. i(jebriq began Ja,1,’’Lvd ber °“l ?nenl- «nd a neielibor ‘,rv, Jx. trapped ’c hascnient so should'’f^ryone’s^ fire. In sP,|C togethcr*ithn?S; llk* house wasdeM^j - nlPst of t^h of iis vontents. The brick”' That was yesterday: Farm life was in^ ,’’L where they enough io «>' which. u ilh 1 ‘he loss lor six week-*. . Iiisk of • ^neks still hot. the lW b^'niei^"*| 'hc dcbris and and entin. bvSul>The neich^ a)so h “nwnunrty were very help*.los(e&“*‘"8 ■<> replace sum jf J10IUe g and quilts. The losS of1 05 a severe blow I’hry were sustained by a steadfast faith in an all-wise God and were able lo piece their lives back together and begin the difficult task of building a new home on the same founda­ tion, minus 12 feet in length. lhe new house was a frame building. 30 feet by 3() feet and had a large kitchen, a din­ ing room, living room and a bedroom down­ stairs. Ihere were three bedrooms upstairs besides a smaller nxim lor a sewing room and a similar small room downstairs for a laundry room, lhe full basement had a cement floor and one register wood and coal furnace to heat the entire house. There was also a full attic, completely floored, which was used for storage, and in rainy or severely cold weather, could be used to hang the laundry to dry. Tile first six weeks after the fire, the family lived in the large bam, and since it was nearly fall, il was warm enough to eat cold fcxxl for the most part. We slept in the hay mows or in the granary on the bins of grain. Alter the first six weeks, we emptied 11 I --by 12-fool building, which was used as a sugar shanty and had been filled with wood for the winter. It had clapboard siding, no sheeting inside and no floor. This became our kitchen and dining area. A long, narrow build­ ing about 12 feel by 20 feel was hastily con- To he continued. CITY OF HASTINGS and RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN HASTINGS-RUTLAND JOINT PLANNING COMMISSION ZONING ORDINANCE loe RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWN- T0: the c,ty of premises which are under the jurisdic- I tion of the Joint Planning Commission I without a determination by the Zoning I Administrator that the subject animal(s) I will pose no threat to the health, safety I and welfare of persons or property, after I submission of a site plan pursuant to I Chapter 9 and pursuant to the standards I for site plan approval in Section 9.04; provided that the Zoning Administrator may instead refer the site plan submis­ sion to the Planning Commission for ' review pursuant to the applicable provi­ sions of Chapter 9 if the Zoning Admin­ istrator determines such review by the Planning Commission instead of the Zoning Administrator is in the public interest. Hastings and CHARTER T0WNSHIP of RUTLAND. BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN. AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: dad The first Bechtel home, made of bricks, was located at Parmalee Road and Duncan Lake Avenue. The house burned in 1916, and a slightly smaller frame house was built in its place. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE the following joint ordinance was adopted by the Hastings City Council on May 11, 2020 and by the Rutland Charter Tov/nship Board on May 13. 2020: CITY OF HASTINGS & Edna Bechtel < 1911-2OO.1 > wrote about her family ami their farm life in northern Thomapple Township featured in a series that began in the Oct. 26. 1995. Banner. She began by providing some family lineage and recalling a tragedy that affected her entire family. I am Edna Bechtel, the only survivor ot iny immediate family of Allan Bechtel. What follows is a glimpse of our family life as I remember it. The story of the Bechtel family began in Switzerland. /Xbraham Bechtel was bom there Feb. 21. 1739. His wife was Mary. When he was 38 years old (1777). he. along with sev­ eral other Bechtels and their families, left their native land and came to America, set­ tling in Pennsylvania. ’I heir son Jacob was bom in Bucks County. Pa. In 1800. they migrated by covered wagon train to Canada, a journey of more than 500 miles. They traveled through forests and across swamps without roads. They finally settled on lhe Grand River, in a place now known as Blair. Ontario, in a howling wilder­ ness. There were nine wagons in this train, and the journey took 10 weeks. Jacob [and his wife, Elizabeth Gabel, had 11 children, including] son Henry', who was bom in Ontario Jan. 5, 1802. Both Jacob and Henry were ministers in the Mennonite church. Most of the Bechtels were Mennonites and many were ministers in that faith. Henry* married Barbara Kinsey , and they had eight sons and four daughters. Their son Dilman was bom Jan 10. 1836. in Waterloo County. Ontario. This is where this story begins. fl 'll 'I Dilman lived at home until he was 21. lie was a farmer. In the fall of 1X59. he came to Michigan and bought 115 acres of land at what is now the intersection ot Pannelee Road and Duncan Lake Avenue, 1 honiapple Township. Barry County, which he tanned until his death in 1X93. except for eigh acres which he sold for a saw mill and a gns milII. Here be built a large brick home. Ik was married to Nancy Sherk (who was born m Ontario) in Michigan in I860. Nancy.died 1863. Dilman married again m 865 to Hannah Hiestand. who a so • Canada. The couple had one m> . ■ • Minetta, born May !'• 1906; Otto. Nov. 7. 1904; lyla. bom Ma> June J4 born Aug. 28. 1907; OrI^’ ... ’^09; and Edna. l*>m Tin . • Mcmionite Father was brought up 1,1 |jcu|,amem M), while Mother was Evant h/|he> beruftheU-ightonHvangelK < svcrc *ere very strict di.sei pl hi an.. • jjvrs laught obedience and iesPttf . ||aine of My. as well as reverence f U)fJS the word of Ood. the > • j a . ^se. the church and the -< rd » da. 4*V|n£ knowledge of Jesus nu<»ht to Jay On the Lord’s day. wt.WBld anend church die work of the week • ..nowed to Sunday schixrl. We uerC including 41 many 'activities on Sundn>'- CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF RUTLAND BARRY COUNTY, STATE OF MICHIGAN RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP ORDINANCE NO. 2020-175 ADOPTED BY TOWNSHIP BOARD: MAY 13, 2020 B. Livestock. The keeping or raising of livestock is subject to the following: I. Commercial Production Purposes. This Zoning Ordinance does not provide for commercial production livestock land uses in any zoning district, but certain premises may potentially be determined by the State of Michigan to be permissible for the siting of a new or expanding commercial livestock production facility pursuant to the Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices for Site Selection and Odor Control for New and Expanding Livestock Facilities issued by the Michigan Commission of Agriculture & Rural Development under authority of the Michigan Right To Farm Act. 2. tloiiiGooiniercial Production EjlfpQSfiS. The keeping or raising of livestock for any non-commercial purpose is not allowed in any zoning district. 3. For purposes of the provisions of this Zoning Ordinance pertaining to the keeping or raising of livestock for “commercial” purposes, or referring to a livestock “production" facility or similar term, these terms shall mean the act of producing an item intend­ ed to be sold at a profit." EFFECTIVE DATE: MAY 29, 2020 (OR AS OTHERWISE PROVIDED BY LAW) CITY OF HASTINGS ORDINANCE NO. 589 ADOPTED BY CITY COUNCIL: MAY 11, 2020 EFFECTIVE DATE: MAY 29, 2020 (or as otherwise provided by law) Edna Bechtel, age 17 in 1928 swimming, playing ball or any loud, boister­ ous games, nor were we allowed to do any unnecessary chores. It was a day of complete rest. We spent the afternoon going for a walk in the woods or writing letters or rending, or just relaxing and resting. Our parents watched over the family’s health with many homemade remedies employing a physician or dentist only when really necessary’. We were, for the most pan, quite healthy, eating nutritious home-cooked meals and fruits. Father was a very good fanner, toiling |on«» and hard to provide for the needs of the famb ly. He was quite resourceful, sometimes even fashioning some small tool to help nnko » difficult task easier. He became his own vet* ennanan. caring for his herds and Hocks employing a veterinarian only when neces­ sary. He also was the family’s cobbler work mg on an iron last to put new soles on badlv worn shoes. Mother was an excellent cook, and we learned to cat and enjoy, with few exceptions whatever was provided. Rarely did ml say, "I don't like that." There was one 6m' when the homemade ice cream was n.J ""l W“,kinS Iin'"":"1 i"s,ca‘l '■">tlla by ndv (About a year before) the United c, . entered World War 1, tragedy struck ,h. ly. A disastrous fire destroyed the |. ' k'"',' house that had been the family homeVh^r'1' was caused by a spark on the roof Ih,h *rc liter had been tong and dry, and’,. “"V shingles were old and very drv s..' r W-‘X’d lhe old chimney quickly ignited £ .J',""1 tanned by n brisk west wind. "'-'he fire A neighbor. Rollo Carpenter w.. in lhe field across ihe load and s ?? *orkin8 He ran to the house and shouted i„ m l!'e that the house was on fire. Wv . . ^‘nther unaware ol the fire, since MothrrT enlirc|y back part of the house , and the h-: lJU ,n l,le blown all of the smoke, smell ir?i ihc Ihc away from us. By this t’jJ’ M!u,uU ol in the front yard wa> bunting and th r pruss already out of control. Al) hop.. .re Was home was gone. SdVmg our In those early days, there uCICltnrt , departments, lew telephones and . rUri‘J hiv biles. Hie fire was visible ........... ' ** news spread rapidly. The nerehh,.',."1* lhc c ' n,’.s came ^QINT ORDINANCE TO AMEND HAST; INGS-B-UJLABD JOINT PLANNING COMMISSION ZONING ORDINANCE An Ordinance to amend Section 4.13 of the Zoning Ordinance of the Hastings-Rutland Joint Planning Commission (Rutland Charter Township Or­ dinance No. 2016-156, as amended/City of Hastings Ordinance No. 532 a’s amended) pertaining to the keeping of animals.’ THE city of HASTINGS & THE CHARTER township of Rutland Barry county, Michigan ORDAIN: SECTIObU EFFECTIVE DATE/REPgAL, . SSc,i°n 4.13 of the Zoning Ordinance of the Joint Planning Commission, pres­ ently pertaining t " £ animals. is hereby amend­ ed ± keeping or raising of live­ stock with n6w content recognizing the siting of a new " exPanai~‘i;es<X liv6Stock production facility ■'n any ls controlled by the Sta'^cd A h'9an Pursuant to tho Generally ACC^Sel9r'ClJl,ufi-’l and Management Practices ,or S ndinn ?c,ion and Odor Control for New and e.XPhioan Cn'V6slock Facilities issued by the Michigan Comn)j । Anriculturo & Rural DeVFea“m Ac?' Under authoX o'lhe Michigan R^ght This Ordinance shall take effect on the latter of: (1) 15 days after enactment by both the City and Township, or (2) the eighth day after publication of a notice of adoption of this Ordinance as required by law; provided, however, if a notice of intent lo file a petition under MCL 125.3402 is timely filed with re­ spect to this Ordinance and/or if the right of refer­ endum under applicable provisions of lhe charter of the City of Hastings is timely initialed, this Ordinance shall then only take effect as provided by applicable provisions of MCL 125.3402 and/or the City charter, or as otherwise provided by law To and further clarifying the keeping or Rising °t tivesto k . non.Commerc>al purpose iS 1 4° i?9 'h W zoning district, thus causing Sect'0rt','l3l0reajas(o||ows: Robin Hawthorne. Clerk Charter Township of Rutland -Section 4.13 Exoljc Anjmals and livestock Jane Saurman, Clerk City of Hastings A' ei(otic animals are not permitted on any Page 9 >tructed abo without sheeting in-ide. As J remember. it was covered on the outside with tar paper. I his was moved in front of the smaller building and became living room and bedrooms. A ladder went up lo the loft, which became the boys’ bedroom. In these close quarters, wc learned the true meaning ot “togetherness.” It was now late, fall and in these buildings we lived through a .severe winter Often Mother checked us in our beds throughout the night to make sure we weren’t freezing. The only heal was a round oak stove beside the cookstove T he roof< on lhe two buildings leaked, and during rains, Mother held pails over our heads to keep us dn. In the makeshift kitchen, the table legs stood in mud. since there was no floor. Even in these conditions, we were remarkably healthy. The new house was a Sears Roebuck pre­ cut house, supposedly ready to assemble, but it didn’t fit the blueprint. So, it had to be re-cut at the site. Building was begun in November. The builders were Ivan Adams and John Hacker. The mason was William Corson Sr., lhe father of William “Santa Claus’’ Corson. The winter was harsh, and the, work was very difficult. but it was nearly finished when we moved into our new homeApril I. 1917. ‘ �changing how it classifies CoVlD-19 cases; expect tally t° Sr0V* Page 10 — Thursday. May 21, 2020 Michigan Bridge Magazine Michigan passed 5.000 ceronavini- < “ on Tbcsday. and the grim ‘ ,. increase significantly this week'' en • reclassifies ho» it tallies deaths related t. ''"in Ohio, the state COVID 19. . In a move that may inciv.i'u 1 • . death toll by 10 percent or mo re. will begin including pr»b.'W‘ ' , , totals - r«her (tan deaths that.jwMed^ ithe tests for lhe virus and “ '■r1,anlly that indicated it "has caused or sutlin.a contributed" to the death. amdl ynnSuttm. state health spokesperson. ,hc But likely ■M-''.’,n!;,h''.'.^.Sutfinsa1d state will report probable UK. , death where the death ^!,*r^Vial9 disease as a cause email. ,. . rcso|\e incon• ^MTe7X^.>e»l- death totals to y"r thT. far have not been attributable '°TtaWgh M“> 2-lhv m<”'rvCC'" da> ''r! staredtaSts are available. Michigan recorded 41,7(M) deaths so tar (his year. Thai’s up 21 percent. over lhe average of M 400 between 2014 and 2019, according to death records kepi by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But as of May 2. lhe suite had reported just oxer 4.000 COVID-19 deaths. (As ot Tuesday it had reported 5.017. the fourth most in the country.) That doesn’t mean the other 3 JOO deaths arc COVID-19 related; the CDC and others have noted that some people died because they did not seek medical care for other ail­ ments because of lhe prevalence of the virus and a shortage of health care resources. Classifying C0V|b ,n deaths has been controversial aiu) ”s,at(.s have come tion fi fW USing ’ mm‘ liber‘l1 in,crPre“' in Colorado, , sla(e rcpreSentative called for au nvesugation aflcX state acknowl­ edged that it was counting as COVID deaths cases in which the disease was not listed as the cause ol death, (houcli they had tested positive for the coronavirus. The state had said 1,150 deaths were tied to COVID-19 but just under 900 listed it as a cause of death. For instance, someone could i °('cancer and physicians could learn later that they tested positive for the coronavirus, ict the virus might not have been the cause of the death. Colorado is now changing how it reports COVID-19 deaths. In April, New York City began counting ‘‘probable” deaths in which COVID-19 was listed as the cause of death but there wasn’t a cases where a PhJ«lc,?n bul does not have believes it was the cause absolute proof. 556-confirmed To date, Ohm has Its t-d 164 ..probaCOV1D-19 deaths, with al ble" deaths. salItc ratio, it If Michigan follows t 5flo mOre would mean attributing nearly deaths to the coronavirus. department In Macomb County, the he cqVID.|9 said there were 29 P^J^ kesperson. deaths, according to a coun > _ P^ rccnt of That would be equal to just under pc the 740 deaths reported there so • "We obtain death mformatton dun ig investigation of 1^™'°^’'’? an accurate so our number of deaths (74UJ medical number,” said Dr. Kevin Lokar, uea|th director of the Macomb Coun y DSu“id probable COVID-19 deaths will be reported separately from confirme • and local health departments across the state have already been collecting the data. DK superintendent expects no major changes in school-funded projects Luke Froncheck ’ Staff Writer • Delton Kellogg Superintendent Kyle Corlctt joined a Zoom call Tuesday attended by other southwestern Michigan superinten­ dents and state Superintendent Dr. Michael Rice. The discussion was dire. In the worst-case scenario. Corlctt said, his school district would lose upwards of $680 per student. That would mean $700,000 in lost funding for the 2020-21 .school year. ”1 try lo be an optimist." Corlctt said. "... But it’s just so frustrating to sec that they’re talking about taking money from K-12 fund­ ing to help out other areas of the budget.” During his call. Corlctt said. Rice reported that every $1 billion lost from lhe stale budget will equal around $500 per student. "It’s easy lo take money from schools and expect them to get by,” Corlctt .said. "We don’t get into education for the money. "The education we’ll provide - we’ve got it covered." The plan, for now. does not include cutting any major programming or staffing, Corlett said. But. especially given the unprecedented nature of the present, things could change if the situation around the COVID-19 pandemic worsens. \ou just never know how long this is going to last." Corlett said. ‘‘The community should advocate for ihe state to not cut school funding, but parcnts shou|dn’t be worried about seeing any major changes at Delton. “We 11 get by, wc have a pretty good plan in place. "I m really impressed with what we’re doing with our online learning compared to other schools with the resources.” Right now, Corlett said his priority is to figure out a way to cut$ that have little lo no effect on classroom learning and staff salaries. He spent most of the day Tuesday trying to figure out w ays to save the district money and a tew options are on the table. For instance, after a teacher leaves lhe district, rather than immediately replacing the individ- Suspects False C0V1D-19 infection claim doesn’t keep suspect out of jail Hastings City Police Officers responded to an anonymous tip of a man with a warrant for absconding in the 400 block of West Grand Street at 2:21 p.m. May 16. Officers arrived and spoke to a man on the scene. While they were talking, an officer heard noises coming from the backyard. When the officer investigated, he found the suspect attempting lo jump over a privacy fence. The suspect also was confronted by two more officers on the other side of lhe fence. He was arrested and several hypodermic needles and two bot­ tles ot morphine sulfate were found in his possession. He claimed to have COVID-19 and was taken to lhe hospital by ambulance. He tested negative for the virus and was cleared of cardiac issues. When the suspect learned he was to be released from the hospital, he told hospital staff that he had just swallowed several pills. This information being false, he was taken to lhe jail. Home invader leaves behind bacon Hastings City Police Officers were called to a home invasion in the 700 block of Newton Court at 5:56 pm. May 16. A woman said she received phone calls from her neighbors that a man was in the area looking for her. When she came home, she found a piece of bacon on the floor of her living room and knew something was amiss. She found the man, intoxicated, lying on her bed. The woman told police she knew him. but had not spoken to him in more than five years. She called police and the man was arrested. Police help find vehicle lost in OWi A 62-year-old man called police at 6:05 a.m. seeking help in locating a vehicle crashed by his son May 13. The man said his son. 19. had crashed the vehicle around 2:30 a.m. The son had lost his phone and had to walk home from the crash, but. when he went back, he did not know where the vehicle was. The son said he had been drinking al a friend’s house before driving. He did not know how much he had to drink, but said it was “too much.” He did not recall much of the crush, except that it was a rollover, and he was uninjured. A caller located the vehicle near the intersection of Cloverdale and Marshall roads, more than a mile from the family’s residence. The son had a 0.092 blood alcohol content and was arrested. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 arrested in multi-county foreak-ans Greg Chandler Staff Writer Two suspects are being held at lhe Barry Count} Jail after they were arrested in con­ nection with a series of break-ins at storage units in three counties, according to Michigan Slate Police. The suspects. 38-year-old Eric James Morgan and 36-year-old Terri Lorene Vantuinen, both of southern Barry County, are charged with criminal enterprise and conspir­ acy in burglaries at 11 storage facilities, including six in Barry County, os er the past several months.The arrests followed an inves­ tigation by Slate Police in conjunction with Barn Township Police, the Barry County Sheriff’s Department and Allegan County Sheriff’s Department. The two suspects were initially caught April 19 as they allegedly tried to break into storage units near Lake Doster. However, they were not arrested at that time due to restric­ tions on intake at county jails related to the COVID-19 virus, said Detective Sgt. Bryan Fuller of the State Police post in Wayland. On May 15, the suspects were again con­ tacted after a burglary al a storage unit in Hastings. It was then that the Barry County prosecutor’s office authorized charges against the suspects. Fuller said State troopers executed a search warrant at the suspects’ home and recovered several thousand dollars’ wonh of suspected stolen property including guns. amimIniiion. jewel­ ry. furniture, electronics tools an1* sp°rtin® equipment. Fullered The recovered propcrly is slill being cata­ loged at the prescnl (j Anyone who d‘veovers their storage unh h k been burglarized ->>• call the Wayt^ \^.71J2-2213. >0 rec~" ^Mol^ptvpenyhnsbce" ual, Corlett said the district will attempt to reshuffle staff and schedules to fill the vacan­ cy with staff already working in lhe district. Nicholas Claus recently left his eighth-grade social studies teaching position al lhe middle school lo lake a job in Grand Rapids, closer to his home and family. Corlctt said he is trying to figure out a w ay to shuffle things lo fill the position without hiring new staff. The biggest issue with that plan, Corlett said, is that before he became superintendent of the district a few years ago. officials had already been making budget cuts, so the dis­ trict doesn’t have many extra staff members to shuffle. "We’re going to have lo be creative in our funding," Corlctt said. "The state eased up on flexibility on federal grant like Title IV, used for STEM.” Because of the flexibility, he can moxe around money from other grants to open other funds and till some holes. LEGAL NOTICES SYNOPSIS Hastings Charter Township Regular Mooting May 12, 2020 Meeting called to order at 7:00 p.m. Six board members present, Approved all consent agenda items Approved Generator purchase & installation Approved payment of bills Plexiglas barrier for front desk Dept, reports received and put on file Motion to adjourn 7:41 pm Respectfully submitted, Anita S. Mennell - Clerk Attested to by Jim Brown - Supervisor 141457 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate FILE NO. 2O-28475-DE Estate of Clayton Rockno Boze. Date of birth: April 13,1931. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Clayton Rockno Bozo, died May 10,2019 Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate and Clayton R. Bozo and Norma J. Boze Trust will bo forever barred unless presented to Melody C. Boze, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street. Sto. 302, Hastings, Ml 49059 and tho personal representative within 4 months after tho date of publication of this notice. Date: May 19.2020 Rhoades McKee Stephanie S. Fekkes P43549 150 W. Court Street, Ste. A Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-1921 Melody C. Bozo c/o Rhoades McKee. 150 W. Court Street. Ste. A Hastings, Ml 49058 (269)945-1921 141487 A'? rtii cuair mJ.enn*”? in th“ MM’ipapcr »s rntytn I’ *** J sir Houu •< Act i:.1 tSr Miibgwi K.rfJ AU collective!) irule II iHc/al lo Ad.rrtisz -»ny picfmtxc UnuU’-on « o-i nm.?. cvUtx. rel.frtn. wi. >u’ut. n*L;-ru! oripu. ajc -X mirt-al tUlut, or mi (Mention. Ju nuke <>’’/ swh ixtlercnce, limitation or diKtiai.r^H ’i J «ar>.v include* vnder the fS'. at It ».*J« <* catkxJ.am. preyr-un wtwrven pay' wearing evstod)' at children i «*• lhi» *,M **x jK.tu mu f'* r*fJ ti •» wUiiM-”. of the h* Ob' tu-kn art hereV/ »nt. rm. J fh.-t kU dwrHi.ijt* -d»c»Bted «» f •’ r^. .paper wr j.wlabte «« brtK. to repeat 4.w<wuwJ*•>» ‘-!| ’’f The tiee the kx'tnx unpaid il >' mhwH* WX<-'/27-«7'' Husincss Services For Stile BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call lor pricing Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman’s romp. Fctterhy lagging, (269)818-7793. KASSON ion OAK Pool Table, excellent condition. $1,000.00 or ODO. 269-908­ 1654 MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bah* spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. GET EASY CASH with extra household goods and tools’ Call (269) 945-9551 to sell your unwanted stuff with a clarified ad in this paper. BELLS CONSTRUCl ION18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements, power washing. 269- 320­ 3890. CARRON SPORT AIR Hockey Table. $300.0001X3. DO YOU WANT QUALITY PRINTING at affordable prices? C^|| j.,\d Graphics at (269)94.> 9554 storage unit b|P bee" peered or sported." Ftfcnot y • ** ■Ctuzens are t^'? ,n nC their local police department L \ - a report if 'hey discover a burg|ai^d nu‘k^ nteJ storage units. We also ask th 11C,lf g-yeiil y011 dis* cover a lock on y?at’in ,he s not yours, contact the poii^ "nil »'<lg access to your unit.’’ Defore gamn’b According to $ vjctims have been identified at Pd,tx’ narry County businesses: following ? • • • • • Mid Likes Mini 1(on Hastings Ston,. ^rage. Clear Lake St« ’ lfosi»«1^ Riverfront St^e* Hastings Uikeridge Self t!'C nnd •Soll?it *vill«-‘ STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL DISTRICT 5TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY PROBATE ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBUCAT1ON/POST1NG AND NOTICE OF ACTION CASE NO. 20-253-CH COURT ADDRESS Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings, Ml 49058 COURT TELEPHONE (269) 945-1286 Plaintiff Ryan Matthew Bultman and William David Boekestein 852 137th Avenue Wayland, Ml 49348 Plaintiff’s Attorney James R. Wierenga (P48946) David, Wierenga & Lauka, PC 99 Monroe Ave., N.W., Suite 1210 Grand Rapids, Ml 49503 (616) 454-3883 v Defendant(s) Unknown Heirs, Devisees, or Assignees of Ann J Fisher, Unknown Heirs. Devisees of Assignees of Robert J. Fisher, and Beneficiaries of tho Revocable Living Trust Agreement for Ann J. Fisher U/A/D 9-9- TO: IT IS ORDERED: 1. You are being sued in this court bv the nlaintiff to quiet title to property located in Barry Township Barry County, Michigan. lownsnip, r . EXHieiLA Deeds'lorCounty Mteh 0' 'h° R°9iS,C' °' corner Xtd pa,?eMn„WoS''!°m ,ho Souths (28) degrees West on 'th^ East Un'”’ ,7*^®'^' Sixty-four (64) feer thnnr^ 1 b?u 0 p3rcel’ degrees West parallel^ the h 5'xty*one of Gwin's Grove -»bout S°U hef,y l,nQ of Piat Point eight (8) fe'e*t East oMho l.100) feet 10 a parcel, thence South tv 1 ? Wosterly l;no of SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Regular Meeting May 13, 2020 half (28 1/2) degrees ntyf?ht (28) end onesixty-one degras Pa^k W feet' thefice North Supervisor Stoneburner called tho meeting to PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: ‘There will be a lot of little stuff cut,, Corlett said. "Every one will have to chip in. While additional funding will have to come from somewhere, that place will not be any of the bond money approved by voters. Money from the bond millage legally may not be used for other purposes. "You can’t ever pass a bond to pay teach­ ers’ salaries," Corlett said. "Even if the proj­ ect cost is lower, money has to go to initially specified purposes." Even with the future economic situation looking bleak, he said it is not affecting the district’s bond projects. Actually, it has helped speed things up. If projects were lo be postponed, there is risk that the cost of projects will increase, especially during the current economic situa­ tion, Corlett said. "Il’s more cost-effective to get things done now instead of waiting when costs could go up." order at 6:30 p.m. Present: Clerk Goebel, Treasurer Pence, Supervisor Stoneburner, Trustee VanNiman & Trustee Borden Agenda and March 30. 2020 Minutes were approved. Public comments, if any, were received. Fire, Pohco and Parks Department reports were placed on file. Supervisor, Tteasurer. Trustees and Clerk's Report's were received. Approved paying bills: $24.420.21 Approved Pino Lake Fireworks application. Approved Park projects Approved postponing Memorial Day observances. Public comments and Board comments were received. Meeting adjourned at 8 25 p.m. Submitted by; Rod Goebel, Clerk 141411 »cet to the place of benin °U Ono hjndr^ (100) of an unrecorded ^uS^9’ beinQ ,ots 4 a"d 5 of way for mgress and eodi 9^1'09 also Q ri9ht eight (8) feet wide adioinX^ °ver a 5triP of land on the Westerly side and n?t'above description highway to lot twelve m lho Pub,,'c R\C<nCC conlinuin9 Northwest!.Gw,rVs Grove and (6) feet wide to the lake a r'9ht of *a7 six 1. You must file your Pitted by law in th^T^i^0 olher acti0" above on oi before 28 I41 910 court address newspaper. If you Notice appears in may be entered against vd< ’a dc,ault judgment each week in The° Ha-3,1 bo Pub'‘Shed once JUd90V'Cky ^Paugh p42b?2 �Streets will be among Clty funds har^t!hit by state Savanah Kacchelc Confributing Writer public hearing to hear comments and make a final determination on the Hastings citv budget is scheduled for the council’s next Aguiar meeting at 7 pan. Tuesday. May 26. At * special budgel workshop Monday, city ^ncil members reviewed individual funds possible budgel amendments with cily Clcrk/Frexsurer Jane Saurman. who said pro­ pions of slate revenue sharing cuts range anvwherc from 25 and 50 percent. Since the exact amount is yet to be deter­ mined, city staff is taking an optimistic approach. •AVe have budgeted for 25-percent reduc­ tion. not a 50-perccnt reduction,” Saurman said. “So. we kind of went with an optimistic reduction in revenue.” -When revenues shrink in one area, all areas of our cily are impacted.” she noted. -So. we are trying very diligently lo create a budget where, in the next 365 days, plus the remaining six weeks of this particular fiscal budget season, we arc trying to spend only what we absolutely have to spend in order to keep us moving forward.” -We are trying to position ourselves the very best that we can creating a platform when wc come out of this to use some of our fund balance to catch up on areas that we had to push off to the next fiscal years.” Saurman sai<| “ pi jU mntj |( . •** ance, Saurman ’hose snetute r— ............. -........ r ‘he ttmcn<kd budget, cuts will comijhnr; C a Projected loss of state revenue inn ‘^any lbesc cuts will include push^r?.S!Se^ slrect projects out to following yc*in>. I no cuts that were already made have •*l x-r Ctt^C imminent need for fiscal ‘lotion in the majority of funds," she said. Tlie two areas where we are still lag­ ging behind are major and local streets.” The stale is 1(X) percent in control of how much the city receives in these funds. Saurman said. With the state projected cuts, she is esti­ mating that lhe city will receive about $50,000 less in revenue than they had planned for this year. For next year, that would be $100,(XX) less, with another reduction of almost $90,000 for lhe following year. Saurman said. Certain areas of lhe city operation rely heavily on the stale revenue sharing money, so they will be hardest hit - especially the local streets fund. "This is where it's the most drastic,” Saunnan said. “We don’t have any negatives in any other funds except for this particular fund.” To reduce expenditures for next year; pav­ ing. curb, gutter and sidewalk repairs, and maintenance have been eliminated and pushed into the following year, she said. "With those cuts for next year, we will end Petto joining Mabte spends fund IXisiu’ 11 ''ouhl) throw Altlm’^1 ‘ d revenue, kd to have its spending j ..nd the from the io s“PP°n thcJJ s r™ls fund could W 1 fu"d. Saunnan said. • ()lts from n>aj(>••Contnb'11 ’ jiiojino, !',rccts to local streets, '^’ (XX) for next ycar‘ We left it living year ;and d’en low­ ered it the lo” d bahlncc Wouldn’t use ”P a11 of ;>U.h h .'”rend>' U ,o streets, which < defiUi position.” Saumuui said. ol)2|jhc. For the yc^ firing°'hcr than a grant Pr°Jvt a gram u i,C.lly to sPend S80JXX) to recc • (s ’ ’ll be eliminated. uUd^^^'S^ — Alons ««h.Z. Z .an.J major street funds, the geru ‘ uill be impacted greatly by the cuts. Thu state funding for the £ * nd is more than 25 percent. Saunnan Mt • ^equemjy. lhe cur­ rent year’s projected vduC(Jon is $37 (XM) in state revenue. -Had that not happened, 0Ur Use of gcner.,| IVIelVlaraH Tho HasW Banner - Tlwr-.day. May 21.2020 ” revenue sharing reduction fund, fund balance would have been minimal • . and it is designed lo be completely self-sus­ about $2,000 • which is really good,” she said. ”... Still, even with lhe use of $400,000 taining.*' Satimwn said However, expenditures in (his area still had of general fund money projected by ihc end of to be reduced due to the fund being obligated 2021/2022, we’re still projected lo have about to maintain the current year, ns well as the 30-perccnt fund balance which is still healthy.” following year’s, debt service payment, The city’s smaller funds, especially reve­ Saurman said. For this year, the fund is pro­ nue funds, are in great shape moving forward jected to be about $800,000. into lhe next couple of years, Saurman said, ’’This fund in particular we have to be care­ liven though there is no worry for those ful (with) because we did not sell bonds for smaller funds, lhe equipment fund was the project money.” she added. “We arc doing reviewed. a state revolving fund loan which means we “This fund is 100-percent funded by contri­ have to spend all the money before we ask for butions from all lhe other funds, including reimbursement.” , local streets and major streets.” she noted. When cash is available to pay the bills, and Although this fund relies on the major and a request from the city is made for what was local street funds, it was positioned fairly well spent, the state will then reimburse the money, for the next two fiscal years. Saurman said. A request for reimbursement Expenditure eliminations for this fund have can be made once a month. already been made, and taking the unrestrict­ “ We are always in a revolving cycle of cash ed net cash position down to about $600,000 flow, ” she added. ’ ’Some months will be big­ is being considered. This is not a bad position, ger than others depending on what level of the as long as it is noted that the equipment fund project is happening. ” and the city’s cash flow will be lhe only way Council member Al Jarvis asked if the state, for lhe city lo purchase equipment. Saurman would be .slow on making monthly payments said. to the city. The sewer and water fund also was “We were told no more than 10 business* reviewed, but not in regard to state revenue days,” Saurman replied. “And that’s the long.cuts. “We are still in fairly good shape from this year lo next year and that is primarily due That’s the worse-case scenario.” to the fact that we do not rely on any slate revenue for this fund: it is an enterprise fun s in collegiate soccer | Brett Bremer Sports Editor A graduation ceremony at Dc|IOn Kellogg High School this summer, whatever form it takes, will include the Panther varsity girls’ soccer team’s single season scoring leader, the team’s single season assist leader, and the team's defensive MVP from a year ago. Holly McManus, Amber Mabie and Gabrielle Petto have been teammates since playing Uh A$ SO games together, were all team captains on the varsity, and they were all planning on an amazing senior season togeth­ er this spring. McManus scored 50 goals as a junior lo set that record. Mabie had 25 assists to get in lhe record books. Petto was named the team’s most valuable player, its defensive MVP and finished second on the team in scoring with ten goals. With that trio spread across the field, the Panthers won a district champion­ ship last spring, and were hoping to add more numbers to the program’s banner in the high school gy mnasium in 2020. They likely won’t all play competitively together again, but they do all have plans to continue their soccer playing days. Petto, who Delton Kellogg senior Gabrielle Petto is joined by her parents Craig Petto and Betzy ranks third in the graduating class in GPA, last week signed her National Letter of Intent to Petto as she signs her National Letter of Intent to join the Kellogg Community College join (he Kellogg Community College Women’s Soccer team next season. Women’s Soccer program next season. She is just a couple months behind the signing days for class of 2020 salutatorian Mabie who has plans to play at Spring Arbor University and classmale McManus who will be playing al Madonna University. All three girls were named first team all-conference in the Southwestern Athletic Conference as juniors and first team all-dis­ trict in Division 3 a year ago. with McManus adding an honorable mention all-state nod as well. All three girls were varsity soccer start­ ers through the three seasons they got to play, Delton Kellogg senior Holly McManus signs her National Letter of Intent to join the! and all have also been multi-sport athletes Madonna University Women’s Soccer program next season while joined by a trio of. throughout their prep careers. coaches Jared Butler from the Portage Soccer Club, Alan Mabie from Delton Kellogg’: Delton Kellogg varsity head coach Alan High Schoo! and Paul Patton the head coach from Madonna. 1 Mabie, Amber’s father, coached lhe trio of senior girls throughout their varsity careers and many times through youth and club soc­ and play together when needed last club sea­ slick with it because they’re not burned out? cer. son. ‘‘It is a little rough,” coach Mabie said ‘We have been best friends for a long lime, because they have done other things and also) Wednesday. “We’re making the best of it, but and Gabby Petto as well. We have been a trio they have developed other muscles. Diey’re' coming out with studies now that say to focus* it’s our last child, senior year. For me it has for quite some time,” McManus said. been emotional a little bit. I have been coach­ Petto chose KCC because it is close lo on that one sport all the time it wears you out» quicker because you’re using the same mus-I ing, between my son and my daughter, 17 or home and to have the chance to earn a certifi­ cles and everything the same where if you do) 18 years I have coached them. This would cate in the school’s joint Agricultural Science different sports they’re slightly different; have been my last season coaching one of my program with Michigan State University. own kids. It didn’t get lo happen.” “I am a very outdoorsy girl.” Petto said. ” 1 enough. I also think it just helps them seethings from a different perspective when it isj Amber’s big brother. Cole Mabie, played enjoy gardening a lot and hunting and stuff. Il not just all about the one thing.” collegiately at Trine University after graduat­ seems fun.” Playing interceptor in (he pressure defense’ ing from Delton Kellogg. Her earliest soccer Carrots are the only seeds she has gotten lo for the Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ basket-­ memories are of spending lime playing soccer get in the dirt in the family garden so far this ball team, .McManus said coaches compared, with her brother and father. spring. her to a snake in the grass. < “I remember standing in my garage, wait­ Recently she went out to a field and just ‘‘I feel like that is me in soccer. I could be ing for the bus and passing a ball around with Ixxitcd a soccer ball as far as she could, some­ on the other side of the field and all of a sud­ my dad and brother (as a kindergartener). thing she hadn’t done in quite a while. Hint den I’ll be where the ball is on the other side. Amber said. _ . kick made her think. “I have definitely gotten McManus said. Amber, a midfielder for lhe Panthers stronger.” • Mabie said basketball helped her with her throughout high school, would love to stay m Delton Kellogg senior Amber Mabie signs her National Letter of Intent to join the Part of that strength was built up last fall, as quickness as well. Petto saw her communica­ the middle of the field al Spring Arbor. Spring Arbor University Women’s Soccer ---- ------- Cr'rinn Arhnr ir' “ a kicker for the varsity football team at tion skills and spacial awareness grow overall program at Spring Arbor in March ’ -I went on a visit there, stayed the night DKHS. She kicked throughout practice. She on the volleyball court, and basketball helped with one of the players, practiced wttb them lhe menial toughness to do it formed in a sea­ kicked field goals and extra-points throughout w ith her vision of the play ahead of her. and watched a game,’ Amber sai . > son of cross country. The trio have still played a lot of soccer lhe season, and did some kick-off work as Were all super nice. They just made meJed “I just got my summer conditioning from well late in the year. She didn’t only see her over the years. Petto remembers stories from like part of the team. It was Jusl.a ^a,lynfcr“^ Madonna.” McManus said. “I go runninu strength grow playing football, but her aggres­ her parents about being a four-year-old environment to be in. And, t ey re P every single night, and then there are ab work­ goal-scorer, who scored often enough that it siveness as well. “Most of Amber’s assists .. f .. outs or leg workouts, whatever day it is. I just good. I’d like to be a part of a g P 1“Even though I was only the kicker, 1 did upset other players and she’d be asked lo stop ordered kind of like a rebounder, so basically were lo Holly last year," all the tackling drills. I did everything with scoring so much. Oser lhe years, she played like that.” maia “Being that they have played together ncarlv every position on a soccer field includ­ I can pass to it and it will pass back to me them." Petto said. The Spring Arbor *°"d they kind of have that unsp^ * r S° ’°,ng National Championships in[2015 Jn ’ That is how I am going to gel all my passes Amber spent time as a member ot the ing goalkeeper. lion of knowing what the other on .",Un,c‘1’ •’It is going to be really different without with a runner-up finish in 20 6. The Cougan in.” Delton Kellogg High School cross country do. Amber would know Hom. going o were back in the NAIA final four m 2018 d (Mabie and McManus),” Petto said. McManus toured a couple other schools make a run al a certain tink^ ‘ls t0 program, volleyball program and girls’ bas­ -It has been sad.” Amber Mabie said. “I during the recruiting process, but felt wel­ made the National Championship Tollman ketball program throughout her four years. to push .he ball through lo k"‘>" have been getting out in my yard and playing come and wanted al Madonna, '“SX”.,-w g()it to her and McManus played basketball and volley ball. “They’re really good. They play really well In addition lo soccer and football. Petto spent by myself, but it is definitely not the same. We “She has great instincts a team. I like the style they play ant| ihcir time playing volleyball and basketball at had to put on our jerseys to take some senior •science with a goal of becomi g I defenders to me.” 'epictures and I started crying a little bit.” therapist. All three girls went throug)M team goals. A lot of it fit for me.” McManus through . . . ° "‘vManus said of DKHS. Anther would love to get together on the Amber. said of the Madonna program. "1 found, through my experience coaching, processes after sufiering leg ,nJ ‘ -They like to get it up m the forward as field with her high school teammates again if Laisl travel season, with the i>r,rt^ . that with some of our best soccer players tliat rl ^Soccer she gets the chance, whether that i> kicking i school was suspended. An^ber has quickly as possible. I am a forward, and I like Club. McManus and AmlK>r just focused on soccer they got to college am teams. I. was the ths. lit>™ «■' <*'> ball around in a field this summer or getting fi jf we have lhe ability to score as quickly as we stopped playing because they were tire 0 been going through workouts on together on the U8 level u,. ( . • '”ee P a>,ng some kind of a summer league during coilecan I like to lake advantage of it - especially different teams ■ 3llhoU(!h j!'M « beenon doing il,” coach Mabie said. ”1 foun sided by die Spring Arbor coacl b giate breaks. heller teams.” running on her own while be.ng thankful tor against that they did jump tennls fr ‘ .^bie said those that do those other sports and don J primarily focus on the one year round tena t *oni lune to time .;W; �Pace 12 - Thursday. May 21. 2020 - * ne Ha.'W l,3nner Hastings High School Senior Memories t ~ Some of my favorite high school memories include all the fun times dressing up with friends before dances, performing in band shows on Frjday nights, and celebrating every spirit week. । |0Ved |aUghlng with the cast members of all the plays, Qr)d cpeerlng on my teammates during their tennis matches. The Spanish Class Trip to Spain and Homecoming 2019 were some of the most special moments I had In high school. Ellie Saur adrenaline rush. We are the FINAL HHSi c of 1de to claim fame to the West Michigan's Drur™' d that Year recognition In 2017. Ha ha. I always wan a said on Graduation Night. Plays and Music a( huge part of my high school career; the made will be treasured for years to come. didn't get to perform all of the shows this yea * always remember the huge show of support for o minute dress rehearsal show and the only actual s we got to perform on Thursday night. It was really co Some of my favorite High School memories are from 4 to see so many people change their schedules so ta years of girls golf. In my Freshman year Mr. Kirkendall and come out and support us. Probably my favorite had to coax me to get up and keep moving because musical memory happened last year during Beauty I was so tired carrying that big bag of c|Ubs that I just and the Beast. Almost the entire cast was on stage as wanted to rest. Then there were fun times with "the I sang 'Be Our Guest', probably the best it had been three musketeers" and playing competitive games performed, and we received a standing ovation! It with Mr. Laubaugh joining us at practice. At last, my was awesome ... right In the middle of the show. Senior year, I was able to play a complete 18-hole Alex Steward game! Best of all were the anticipated stops for fast food on the way home from every meetl My favorite high school memory was getting close Lacle Overmire, class of 2020 to the upper class men Involved in musical! Being in Some of my favorite high school memories are Friday night football games, Spanish video projects, attending YLS and the Women in Sports Leadership Conference. I so thankful to have met some of my closest friends on sports teams, and made memories at weekend tennis tournaments, dive meets, and cheer competitions. My greatest HHS memories are travelling to Philadelphia and Disney World with the band, and to Spain with 13 other Spanish students from Hastings! Thank you to the Class of 2020 for making these past 4 years so fun and memorable!. Shannon Brown varsity singers, musical, and going on choir trips with them my sophomore year made it my favorite time of high school!. Karsyn Daniels My favorite high school memory was when the boathouse boys planned to have the biggest party of the year after the homecoming dance. Word got around soon to everyone in the school and there was a mole in the system. One morning I woke up a little late for school and had a Snapchat from all my friends. It was a picture of them with their legs propped up on the conference table in the high school office. They were In a meeting with the principal and Mr. Goggins. Hi my name is Ben Ferrell and some of my best memories News of the large party that was supposed to happen were made after football games, celebrating at Apple had gotten to them. Sadly, the party was put to an end bees, then hanging with the boys at the BoatHouse. due to the school finding out and it never happened. The planning of It and getting busted was all in all a My favorite memory of High School is my Senior Band great memory. Camp on Senior Night, laying in the middle of a wet The Boathouse Boys grassy field lol. David Raymond I hid the tiny babies. My name reads phonetically. 1*11 never forget my four years here! My favorite memories from senior year are going on Brenna Klipfer the science research trip to Croatia with Mr. Buehler, planning and hosting the Climate Change Symposium, Junior year Halloween a big group of friends went to and being a part of the colorguard. a Haunted House. On the way home it was late & Katie Pattok we were hungry so we stopped at Steak & Shake at 2am. This past year for our Snowball dance Celina (our One of my favorite memories from senior year was families exchange student) and our friend group hung being apart of the Clue cast! out & played Rock band before the dance. Then we Katie Cook left the dance early to come home and watch movies. Traveling to Croatia the Summer of 2019 for Biodiversity The class of 2020... WOWI Some things that I will always Research with Mr. Buehler and some classmates was a remember about high school... | will always remember highlight of high school for me. I was able to meet a my group winning Saxons Got Talent my sophomore lot of cool people from around the world as well as see year. I loved being on the drumline, being captain some pretty amazing places such as the Eiffel Tower in this year, making the tenor line my freshman year and Paris & The Coliseum in Rome. marching down the halls for assemblies. The sheer Dane Barnes volume when we played inside the school was an Special Congratulations to 6en CuTth and the Class of 2020 Special eon9Mtulation!t0 bby £atabee Special Congiatulatiovu to and the Clajiof2020 and the Claii of2020 Sen Benell Joe & Barb's SEPTIC TANK SERVICE 3305 West Quimby Road, Hastings, Ml 49058 *1 -BOO-'7OO 3B7O 269 953-7452 nick@leapingllzardslandscap|ng % >n 269 �On of my highlights from this school yeor aoes back S2 S" 3?me-" ™s jme frjp Q I'll always rememu^i endshlps, be so thankful for all the frir?ade' as well as everyone It was such an eQ| fev^r look back on. Thank SethST In 1now any of ,he rules In football amazing trip th' you HHS for a the g^^orles and all the friends I l m 00 eXpert nOW haha- but Ahe fcJasics of ,he game). First of oil, I'm have made along ’he wqy ry pe i ive. I play soccer, and I've been playing Abby Larabee soccer for many years. I absolutely love sports, so I was "My favorltehlghscboolrperT1ory q|| q|. (he marching rea y excited for this game. I remember I constantly competitions, volleyoan tournaments, softball double­ kept asking my sister, Bri Barnes, about what was going headers, track meets, and musical rehearsals. I will be ond^rln9 game - like; "how many points did we forever grateful for all of th6 |nside jokes and memories get. and why did the ref stop the game?" and so that were made with all of my team5 । want to thank on in order for me to understand what was going on. all of my teachers and coaChes that put so much time I m gonna be honest and say it was hard for me to into allowing me to grow anc| become an amazing understand the game, but I really enjoyed watching! I student and team member. |'m going to miss everyone also liked the school spirit. In Norway, where I'm from, so much. Thank you! Thank you so much for doing this we don't really have any school spirit. We don't have any school sports either. So, if you wanna play sports, for the seniors. It means a |Of you'll have to join a club. However, this football game Chelsea Beede was definitely one of my most memorable memories - My favorite memory in high school was when we had It's so typical American, and something different from to wrestle marshall in my sophomore year. It was a close what I'm used to. I loved it! match and the team was leaning on me too clinch Celina Christiansen, exchange student from Norway the win. We were down by 3 when I had to wrestle, which meant I had to major the other kid. After a Iona One of my favorite memories of this year was the final football game of the season. It was pink-out, and we match I won 12-4. Just enough to win. beat Charlotte 60-14. We even got to run a great trick Shane Dillon play called, "Cappon East". We executed it perfectly Favorite High School Memory was Caeden's first year i Carter Cappon #8 o marching band the show home of the brave. for the Natio this once in a memories and 1. My last play of my last game of football was an interception. 2. Losing 13-0 and coming back and pinning Harper Creek for the 1-8 Championship in wrestling. 3. Winning my last match In wrestling to place 5th in States and having the support from my coaches, friends, and family. 4. Running out on to the field seeing the bleachers full for my first home game on Varsity Football. 5. Getting asked to do the talent show the day of and having to learn the moves 5„minytes b^fpfe.we wqq^ on. GabrlelTrick ........... Football has been a part of my life since I was little. These guys have made it so much fun! I love every single one of them and I am going to miss running out on the field on Friday nights. There is something about the fight song playing and the student section cheering that will stay with me forever. Ben Curtis One of my favorite high school memories has to be my ast bowling meet as a high schooler. The coach ® °Ur °^er senlor girl (who was JV) bowl for /Sl \ '5r OUr 9Qme (the girls team for the other lave a JV team)* 1 bowled really good that all I np 1 hQd been bowHn9 °nd realized , °L a L needed was do better. We d!dntt the extra but „ confidence msTn2 Wboost e °omto e do better, we aian t win, uui n wuo im«. - ------* ,L-------------1 tx close and did our best and that's all that mattered. It ; was an enjoyable experience and I was so happy to see my^ho^rinn fellow teammates cheering us on. ............ us on. Emma Vann KayleeTigchelaarsald her favorite high school memory will always be. “Lunch time with my girls" My favorite memory was when school got cancelled from the Covid-Virus 19! Jamison Lesick Football games, homecoming week, Grand Haven A favorite memory for Josh is qualifying for the State Cross trips for sun and pronto pups...getting a puppy in lieu Country Championship as a team of seniors. It was an of my senior trip...the makeshift senior prom I was still Awesome experience from start to finish. able to have...cedar point trips...Chicago trips...so Josh Brown many memories...! cherish them all. Madison Wells My name is Abby Larabee, and my favorite memory from high school is taking a trip io Anaheim, California 1 • - - Special Congratulations to Special Congratulations to Paxton Walden. Kay lee Tigckelaat,Jacob O’Keefe Kcvtysn Panick Qvid the ClaiJof2020 and the Class of 2020 Special Congratulations TCU Thomapple Credit Union wnere community matters wwwU'o|M|»plec6,com to the fntke cla3j of r 202013est Wiihei oh all ijcui rutu<[C endeavors. Cove all of y°u-i TeQc|lctJj admudstTator “^support staff K-12. �Pape 14 — Thursday, May 21. 2020 — The lUsbnps Banner TK’s Jansma using summer golf season to prep for Spring Arbor Brrtt Brerncr Sports Editor Like a perfect lie on a pulling green, every­ thing was set up tor Nathan Jansma to create the Listing highlights of varsity golf career over the final few weeks of his senior season. He was set tor the last of four varsity sea­ sons. He was inspired by his sister Clair earn­ ing a spot in lhe state finals with the Thomapple Kellogg vanity girls last fall. Regional* were set to be played at Yankee Spring* Golf Course Ihc final week ot May, not only the home course of the lYojans. but literally right out the Jansma* door. Then coronavirus changed every thing. No senior golf season. No regional* at home. No last shot at a spot in the state finals. There will still be some sort of graduation Celebrations, and there will still be more golf in the future for Jansma though. The day before in-person school learning ended in March Jansma signed his National Letter of Intent to join the Spring /Xrbor University Men’s Golf program. He was a part of TK’s celebration as seniors picked up their caps and gowns in lhe high school parking lot Wednesday. ; For now, lhe cups on the greens at Yankee Springs Golf Course arc filled with foam. A ball that hits the foam counts as one that dropped in a cup. Golfers tire asked not to pull ihc pins from the cups, something Jansma is still getting used to because he has always been one to pull the flag before putting. . Jansma was a four-year member of the TK varsity boys’ golf team, just missing a spot in the team’s top five for regional* as a freshman before becoming a team leader over the next (wo seasons. That freshman season in 2017 was the last time that Yankee Springs hosted a regional that the Trojans participated in, and lhe last time a TK guy qualified for the stale finals (Kyle Reil). “It’s hard. I grew up on that course. This is lhe perfect opportunity for me to make a state finals run and win a regional. 1 know the course like the back ol my hand. It would have been such a fun time being able to play regional* nt Yankee. It not being able to Imp pen has been one ol the hardest things. When I found out in lhe winter that regional* was going to be at Yankee Springs I was 'okay, my goal is now to focus on golf because I've got to make it to slate. It was set. I had such a good shot I kept telling myself." Jansma led the Trojans al their Division 2 Regional Round at Diamond Springs a year ago, shooting an 85 that left him ten strokes behind the final individual state qualifiers from lhe event. He matched Reil for the team’s fourth-best score at its regional tourna­ ment in 2018. Jansma also had four winters playing bas­ ketball at TK. the last two as a member of the varsity boys’ basketball team. When he wasn't spotting up for three-pointers, he was one of his teammates biggest cheerleaders, and he turned into one of his classmate's biggest cheerleaders the rest of the time as one of lhe leaders of the Trojans’ TroZonc student sec­ tion. "I just have always just liked being around my friends, watching my friends compete in anything. Watching sports in general, I love it," Jansma said. "If I could be watching a sporting event, you’re going to find me there .. That is something that I love, being in front of my peers, I love being a part of the student body, I love putting TK on the map. I have heard coaches say they can’t wail to go play TK. their student section is always pretty good al home." He has had elementary education in his head as a course of study over the years, but is leaning towards a degree in sports manage­ ment at the moment. He’d love to get a job working for the PGA Tour someday, even if he has to start at lhe very bottom. There will be the chance to hone his game over the spring and summer. Jansma was planning on playing in a Callaway/Meijer Junior Tour event at Egypt Valley Monday 5 ’ Thorna.^ Til * Nallonal Le,,ei 01 ,nlenl 10 join ,he Spr'"9 M L.,« ana Ihor„aWo „ol s and he a long hsl of tasks from the Spring Arbor coaching staff. "We have to hit 400 putts a week and 400 chips a week. 100 three-footers, 100 five-foot­ ers. 100 lO-footets and 100 15-foolers for our putts, 100 eight irons. 100 nine irons. 100 pitching wedges and 1(M) sand wedges. We have a huge spread sheet that they sent out to all 17 ol us al Spring Arbor so we can see and keep track of how everyone else is doing. Jansma said, “h pu^ a little pressure on you so you gel it done so that you’re not the only person not being able to do that. I think that is a good thing, and it’ll help me a lol." “Now- that (golf courses have) re-opened. I’m back there almost every day hitting balls on the range, working on my short game or playing with my buddies, getting lessons. Usually, almost every day, I spend at least two hours out there working on different sluff,’’ he added. He’s been working since his freshman year towards earning a spot on a collegiate roster, and once he got the attention of golf coaches Spring Arbor became the fairly clear choice. “1 knew I wanted to go to a smaller school. 1 knew that would fit better for me classroom wise. 1 could excel better at a smaller school and know my professors more.’’ Jansma said. “I wanted lo go to a Christian school. My faith is as big part of me and 1 wanted to be able to express my faith at my school and at Spring Arbor I can." He is also looking forward to being a part of a team chasing a championship with the Cougars. Two Hastings elementary swtefflGs F@©@gBw@©3 fer art Central Elementary 5th grader Madison Killian stands with her depiction of dolphins and jellyfish, a work that recently toured the state. Running for a Political Office? We at J-ad Graphics are ready to help you with your campaign needs. Luke Ironcheck Stajf Writer I he artwork of Madison Killian, a 5th grad­ er al Central Elementary, and Brooklynn Aulen. a 2nd grader at Southeastern Elementary , lifts been judged as outstanding by local and state judges. Madison’s art. named one of lhe top 15 works created at the elementary school level in Michigan, recently toured the state. Brooklynn’s work just advanced to lhe state level competition. It will be among 1 (X) sub­ missions judged by an artistic panel to deter­ mine lhe best. If her artwork is placed among the top J 5 at the state competition this month - it will be featured in a statevv ide tour as part of an elite group of elementary school artists. "I am so proud,’* said Natasha Offerman, their teacher. "They are so excited." Despite a global pandemic and stay-athome orders, her students are creating amaz­ ing art, Offerman said. She chose their work as lhe best from their respective schools. Offerman knows what an impact such an accomplishment can have on a young life: "In high school I won for best of show for our region and my work went on to tour the state of New Jersey where I lived." And now OlTennan is passing the positive impact of that experience on to them in her role as their art teacher. . "It’s somethin" that stavs with them forever and builds their\haracter and confidence in art," she said. • Advertising • Yard Signs • Banners • Flyers Brooklyn Auten a second-grader at SoutheasVEtmentary. bolds up her artwork ol sunf|owers, which is currently ootnpetmg a) lhu stale level. • Self Mailers such as postcards and brochures • Inserts in the Newspaper • Specialty items such as pens, magnets, balloons, and more Mi Call 269-945-9554 for more information Delton school board explores graduation options Luke k’roncheek . XV,‘enlt Staff Writer h°ns fOr(. v°mes to graduation and celebniOf 2()2(). questions abound. ‘,,,s'Ver i(j schools staff are working to ^UrPL »n.eC.”.,<Ae questions. ^’ard of education meciing that f,day, c ironically through Zrxim last option f{) *J>vrinteiulent Kyle Curktt .said one l ^nimcncemcnt would Ik- to con'e/'l at the Gilmore Car Museum. .staff members said they are ^^c^hofd a commencement ceremony ^bdting class, whether it\ al lhe car ,nn,W Ul||‘r e,srwhere. But plans for the cere,eMr’cti()I'1”Tclv depend on S(x-iaNhsiancing they official* said. ,h P\-<*° 2| school year’s master calendar X,lr<d to the Nxinl dining the meet- ing. Although it’s similar to the 2019-20 school year, the new calendar includes fewer half-days, two fewer days for students, and some professional development day s that will count as instructional time. Corlett also announced staffing changes lor the 2020-21 school year: Second-grade teach­ er Ashley Stanton will not be returning next year. Malraca Bourdo, current first-grade teacher, will fill that position, and Linda Blocker, current reading, interventionist in the district, will fill the O|K*ning left by Bourdo. In addition. Corlett announced there will be no administrator or teacher evaluations lor this school year Forty percent ot evaluations are based on student assessment data, which is not available due lo the school closure In other business, lhe school board: - approved its Schools of Choice resolu lion, which begins June 6 and ends Sept. 11. - postponed hiring coaches because of the uncertainty surrounding athletics. • postponed approving lhe Barry Intermediate School District budget lo allow ISD Superintendent Richard f ranklin to pro­ vide further clarification. - received a financial committee report from heasurer Sarah Austin lhe committee discussed bills, potential cuts in slate funding, evaluation ot insurance costs, and an increase in athletic insurance due to lhe increase in claims during lhe school yeai. approved hiring middle ami high school counselor Karissa Wright, with a contract through June 30. 2023. lhe next Delton Kellogg Board of Education meeting will be 7 pm. Monday, June 15, in the elementary media room � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-05-28.pdf 95d1d91734b168783fed023e9aba8c85 PDF Text Text Superintendents warn of proration effects The fUF^ery of the n#,s„‘nD9 Jink HHS seniors enjoy drive-in movie night See Story on Page 12 See Story on Page 6 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 volume £67,No. 22_ _____ __ __ ___ __ _____ 804879110187 ANNER PRICE 75C NEWS High water claims more land BRIEFS Free boxes of produce available The YMCA of Barry County and Blue Zones Activate Barry County have been given the opportunity to bring in a large number of free fresh food boxes through the USDA’s Fann to Families Program in collaboration with distributor Perfect Pact. Deliveries will begin Friday. May 29, and are expected to continue every Friday through June 26. The truck will be deliv­ ering the boxes to several locations around the county. No qualification is needed to receive a I box: recipient households do not need to I include children. Each box will contain 20 pounds of produce, including apples, oiti-yp’J. potatoes, carrots, celery, cabbage (cdtihl be substituted with lettuce or cuctonbers, depending on availability), and-onc container of strawberries (could | be substituted with blueberries if strawberrijc* tire not available) Anyone wanting further information and a listing of sites and times around the county may visit ymcaofbarrycounty.org further information and a listing of sites. Deadline Saturday to apply for redistricting commission Every 10 years, following the U.S. Census, district lines for political offices must be redrawn in states across the coun­ try to accurately reflect the population. These districts will determine political I representation. I in Michigan, citizens, not legislators or | special interests, will be responsible for 1 drawing these district lines. A randomly | selected commission will be responsible I for drawing U.S. Congressional and I Senate district lines for state elections. I Each of the 13 commissioners, who will be randomly selected through this application process, will receive a $40,000 compensation for his or her service. All registered voters are welcome to apply - no special knowledge or experi­ ence is required to serve. The deadline to apply to serve on this commission is this Saturday, June I. More information can be found at RcdistrictingMichigan.org: apply online at Michigan.gov/Redistricting. Luke Fronchcck Staff Writer Mother Nature delivered another body blow to lakeside residents this week. Heavy rainfall reversed any progress that pumping had made earlier this year, Barry County Drain Commissioner Jim Dull said. Recently, Crooked luike rose above the highest point it had reached last year. Dull said. Last week, the lake level was recorded at 928.46 feet above sea level - its highest level, to dale, since that flooding crisis began in the Delton area. Ixtst Friday, the lake level had receded slightly to 928.36 feet above sea level. Several houses on the lake have water up to the doorsteps and fish can be seen swimming on roads in that area. The Prairieville Township boat launch on Crooked Lake is obstructed by about 12 feet of water that stretches into the parking lot. "We’ve definitely still got flooding.” Dull said Tuesday. "But the pumps are working good.” After a second pump was installed to take water from Upper Crooked Lake and direct it into a detention pond across Delton Road. Dull said he thought he and his team were in a fairly good spot. See HIGH WATER, page 3 Two houses on Upper Crooked Lake have water up to the doorsteps. Gun ©asmo owefes for1 re°©penmg Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Gun Lake Casino officials plan to open the doors to patrons June 8 after a closure of near­ ly three months due to the COVID-19 pan­ demic. The reopening was announced Wednesday afternoon. However, the casino will not go straight back to business as usual. "We are excited to welcome our guests and team members back to Gun Lake Casino,” Sal Semola, casino president and chief operating officer, said in a May 27 press release. “In preparation for our re-opening, we have worked conscientiously to put extra safe­ guards and measures in place to ensure your continued health and safety. The result of these efforts is the Play It Safe Initiative." The initiative outlines how casino officials plan to protect both staff and guests. Staff from each department within the casi­ no developed policies and procedures to adapt to new- circumstances and information. "Play It Safe is a result of hundreds of hours spent thinking about the community," casino representative Jeff LaFrance said in the press release. "Al! protocols are based on the most up-to-da’. infonniion provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization and the Gun Gun Lake Casino’s Play-It-Safe Initiative key points include: - Open to guests 21)<-’ars and up 8 u.m.-3 a.in. daily. - Closed 3-8 a.m. drily for detailed cleaning of entire facility. - Primarily smoked with limited.designated smoking areas. - Face masks requfcd. with the exception of times when guests are consuming food ad beverages or smoking in a designated area. Guests may wear thrifown face masks and'or gloves. - Face masks offend upon entry - Every other slotfl^1’01-* closed for adequate social distancing. - Table games avakble 8 a.m .-2 a.m. with limited maximum occupancy for each D'l*-*- Self-serve beventp stations unavailable during initial phase of reopening. Bcvcra£rtava^a^e through cocktail servers or nearest bar. - Sandhill Cafe op*1 11 a.m.-l 1 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m.-niidnigWFriday and Saturday. - Sandhill Cale Gnh and Go °Pcn 8 aan.-3 a.m. daily. - Harvest Buffet c>ed untd further notice. -Thermal cameras installed at every entrance for discreet noninvasive three-part entry screening for all guests and team members. Any person displaying a temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher will not be allowed entry . - Guests must park in the parking garage for building access. Valet operations and surface parking lots are unavailable, and all bus routes have been discontinued. - Table game chip sanitization will be increased. - Standards for table game card change-outs enhanced to further limit the amount of card touches in all game types - Poker room will remain closed until further notice. - Limited capacity at all restaurants and bars. Condiments pro­ vided in single-use packets. - Team members will continuously sanitize all doors, handles, elevators, slots, chairs, restrooms, kiosks, ATMs, ledges, counters, hand rails, and other areas. - Increased number of hand-sanitizer stations available in guest areas. Sanitizing wipes also available throughout guest areas. - luitest cleaning technology secured to further improve sanita­ tion. including electrostatic sprayers. - Team members receiving special training, with specific focus on COVID-19 safety and sanitation procedures. COVID-19 Lakewood Area Choral Society postpones 35th season claims victim in Hastings Just prior to the governor issuing the first stay-at-home order, Lakewood Area Choral Society member met for the first rehearsal of the season. After a successful recruitment, 19 new memlrcrs were added to the choir. And members were looking forward to a J5in anniversary season. However, the realities of COVID-19 and the impossibility of social-distancing for choirs and their audi­ ences resulted in a jxistponement ofthe 35th season to next year for the safely of ‘MoonshpV testing, process coming to Barry, County idl . During the hiatus, member** will meet Us,ng online and virtual °Pl,on$* \ er-l years J ACS member John Myer, has mp.'b of every' part of cury choir sings, allowing m Police, even if lhey cannot play P’^w.This will help keep singers r * ) for 2021. nr Rnbert < Oster also has plans to keep mernb ^cd in working on la 2021, the choir W,H st‘" See NEWS BRIEFS’ z* SGG CASINO, p3gG 6 A show of support Army/Navy v«ie'an • Kloost8r (Ught) and his wife Laurie Klooster wave to the vehicles in the Me"101131 Day car parade as they pass the veterans memorial in the Qrounds ol the O^geville Township Hall Monday morning. For more about lhe Parade. see insid® <phol° by Brett Bremer) Rebecca Piercv Editor The new coronavirus claimed a second life in Barry' County last Thursday, The victim, a 29-yeur-old man, was con­ firmed as having (.'OVID-19. He died at home. Bany-Laton District Health Department officials said. The first death attributed to COVID-19 in the county occurred April 12. when a 59-yearold woman died at Spectrum Health Pennock Hospital, BF.DI1D confirmed. declining to release any further information about the.se deaths. As of Wednesday, 62 cases havc been con­ firmed in the county, most of them occurring m higher population areas, such as Hastings and in areas nearer to Grand Rapids. Six of those cases arc considered active. Eaton County has 179 confirmed cases with 13 of See VICTIM, page 8 �AnMfindsways to honor America’s fallen soldiers Brett Bremer Sports Editor » Waving American flags. Army veteran Marv Klooster and his wife siood and counted as the mo,ofC^ I nt ifhd trucks rolled by the veterans me , the Orangeville Township Hall Monda) rMXn3ggeddown.hefiu.hchicUin.he .7 Ic. .he TOXiver «^^,X^1onCdn" ft decked X in American memoriai in of a p.1radc on a iffXrtMnd of a Memorialmany ^X^n^Vted service and Otsego area" Man' Klooster. an ^ngevdle8 resident, sai^ ‘This year we Xuldn’l do that because of what is going on. st> I put a flower th* base of cach military flag [at the Orangeville memorial].” . ’ -Which we do every year.” Laurie said. t “We’ve been thing that for probably 15 years." Marv • Laurie said she wouldn’t mind the car parade rolling through Orangeville every year. The procession of vehicles was led by Yankee Springs Township supervisor Mark Englerth in his red pick-up truck. The group of parade participants met up at Gun Lake Community Church at 9:30 Monday morning, and rolled out close to 10 a.m. The parade passed the veterans memorial at the Yankee Springs Township Hall as it made its way east ou M-179, then turned south toward the Cora Giffin and Sheri Giffin of Vermontville, wearing Civil War-era dresses, lay Orangeville Township Hall. flowers on the Civil War soldier’s monument in the veterans memorial at the entrance The gathering proceeded to Lite veterans to Tyden Park in Hastings Monday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) memorial at the entrance to Tyden Park in Hastings before dispersing to finish off the holiday weekend. Bany County Sheriff Dar Leaf and State graves of Civil War-era soldiers there. Cora, Commander of the American Legion Barry 16. has been participating in historical Wopd were in the two vehicles on Englcrth’s reenactments for her entire life with her family. In years past, the Giffin ladies have tail throughout the trip. •>. Vehicles from the Orangeville Township been a part of the Memorial Day weekend and, Yankee Springs Township fire departments Civil War Remembrances at Greenfield ai)d,Uic Barry County Road Commission also Village in Dearborn. They also are typically a part of the annual Civ il War Muster at Charlton ere,involved in the parade There were no spectators al the memorial Park each July. Memorial Day observances started soon in Yankee Springs Township, a single neighbor j011)0,, thc. Klppstera to look on at , the after the,Civil War. Early on. the observance Oranjievflie memorial. A group of about 20 was known as Decoration Day and was awaited the parade’s arrival near the entrance conducted on May 30 each year. In 1968, to Tyden Park, including veterans and at least Congress passed the Uniform Monday one Gold Star mother. Holiday Act, moving the holiday to the last . Sheri Giffin and her daughter Cora Giffin Monday in May. That change went into effect of Vermontville arrived soon after most of the in 1971, declaring Memorial Day a federal crow^j from the parade had cleared out, holiday. dressed in their homemade Civil War-era “We’re usually laying flowers [at dresses* to pay their respects at the Civil War Greenfield Village], and we thought it is a soldier’s monument in the center of the very' cool tradition to do, so we thought we’d Hastings Veterans Memorial. find some people around here and give us a 3 The pair had been at a cemetery in chance to do some teaching, which is kind of Vermontville in the morning, decorating the why we do this,” Sheri said. Margaret Wood (left) and State Commander of the American Legion Barry Wood wave to the Memorial Day car parade participants from the veterans memorial at Tyden Park in Hastings after being one of the first of nearly 100 vehicles to complete the parade route Monday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Participants in the area Memorial Day car parade prepare to drive their motorcycles, township vehicles, cars, trucks and more in the parking tot of tti Gun Lake Community Church Monday morning. The parade passed by veterans memorials at the Yankee Springs Township and Orangeville Township offices and then made its way to the veterans memorial at Tyden Park in Hastings. More than 90 vehicles took part in the parade. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Flyover at Fort Custer • I Memorial Day visitors to the Fort Custer National Cemetery in AugustaJd°nbay afternoon viewed an unex­ pected tribute when five vintage T-34 planes flew over Fort Custer National Cemetery. Members of the Hooligan Flight Team flew in formation, three times over flag-be­ decked graves and the people watching below. The dan­ ger presented by the potential spread of COVID-19 may prevented the traditional public obsen/anees, but it didn’t stop this aerial salute. (Phol° by Scott Harrnsen) A handful of spoclators watch the Memorial Day car parade, which started at th Gun Lake Community Church, drive south along M-43 near the veterans memmLi tyden Park in Hastings Monday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) a* �. ... - ■ - . * •*** ... ' The Hastings Banner — Thursday. May 20. 2020 — Page 3 Delton Kellogg anno^ces top 11 seniors Erin Rebekkah Kapteyn Amber Jean Mabie Gabrielle Mae Pett° Alexis Grace Chandler Lindsey Ann Bunday After grades were compiled, Delton Kellogg High School had a tic among students, leading to 11 schol­ ars being named to the top 10. The honored students in the class of 2020 include: Erin Rebekkah Kapteyn (GPA 4.148). daughter of Joel and Misty Kapteyn. She played varsity volleyball, bas­ ketball, softball and was on the track and field team. She was active in stu­ dent council (executive board, vice president). National Honor Society (president), and Interact (vice-presi­ dent). Kapteyn’s awards and special rec­ ognitions include Academic Highest Elizabeth Marie Vroegop Kelsie Lynn Webb Lily Ann Timmerman Hailey Leona Buckner Honors, Academic All-State in volley­ ball. First Team All-Conference in Lindsey Ann Bunday (4947 GPA), volleyball, softball and track and field; All­ well as play soccer. She would like to go to Timmerman was the varsity softball cap­ District in volleyball and softball: All- graduate school to get a doctorate in physical daughter of Julie and Rob Bunday. tain and earned softball All-Conference. All­ Her school activities included competitive District, All-Regional and All-Area Honorable Regional in volleyball, softball and track and therapy and focus on sports injuries at an out­ field: and /\I1-Area in volleyball and softball. patient clinic or at a sports and fitness facility. dance team (Traci Phelps Studios), student Mention awards. In cross country, she was council, student advisory and ECO Club al voted most improved, Al I-County Honorable She is a two-time suite qualifier in track and field and holds the DKHS school record. Gabrielle Mac Petto (4.086 GPA), the Battle Creek Area Math and Science Mention. Center, and dual-enrollment through Kellogg Kapteyn also a Daughters of the American daughter of Craig and Elizabeth Petto. She plans to attend luike Michigan College Revolution representative. She was on the basketball, volleyball and Community College. to study psychology and play on the softball Bunday’s awards and special recognition team. After completing community college, She plans to attend Hillsdale College to soccer teams in high school, was a member of play softball and major in biology (prc-medi- the student council and was involved in robot­ included National Honor Society, AP Scholar she would like to transfer to the University of cine). She eventually hopes to attend graduate ics, Delton Follies, the kickline and the Green with Honor, and BCAMSC Student of the Michigan. She would like to be a psychiatrist school to become a surgical physician assis­ Team. Her senior year, she was the kicker on Month. to help improve mental health. tant. She plans to attend Gnnd Valley State the varsity boys football team. Her awards and special recognitions University to study biomedical science and to Kelsie Lynn Webb (3.922 GPA), daugh­ Amber Jean Mabie (4.146 GPA), daugh­ include Highest Academic Honors, perfect then go to medical school to become a physi­ ter of Becky and John Webb. ter of Alan and Christine Mabie. attendance her entire school career, captain of cian. She has participated in cross country', She played was on the varsity soccer, bas­ the soccer team and All-Conference, All­ marching and concert band, pep band. ketball. volleyball and cross country teams District, and Team MVP in soccer. Kaleb Ryan Post (4D37 GPA), son of National Honor Society, student advisory. and participated in the DK Power-lifting club. She plans to attend Kellogg Community Ryan Post and Mary McEmin. Conrad Research Competition and She also played on a travel soccer team College to. study agricultural science and His school activities ududed varsity foot­ ExploraVision Research Competition. (Portage Soccer Club Premier) and indoor might transfer to Michigan State University. ball, varsity basketball Id varsity wrestling. > Webb was named the Most Dedicated ' ■' . ’Tl band member in 2017. sor&r Her academic nch'vities included stu­ As far as her career plans' she said she will He'also has been in dent Council dilks president, student advisory see where college lakes her. ’ Post has earned N&r.ai Hull or •Society^ JJ,She planstbattend Cornerstone University, (BCAMSC), Ecology Club, Follies, kickline leadership and citizenslip awards throughout majoring in pre-med, pre-pharmacy, and anTKliss Delton. Alexis Grace Chandler (4.061 GPA), high school} Creativity and Innovation, Cornerstone’s ^labie’s awards and special recognitions daughter of Derek and Rachel Chandler. He plans to attendMichigan Technological Honors college. She eventually would like to included National Honor Society, honor roll, While in school, she was in the theater University to study dvil and survey engineer­ be a cancer research scientist or marine biolo­ AP^gcholiir with Distinction, National Merit program all four years and the National Honor ing. His career plans are to move to a large gist. Scholarship Commended Student. Michigan Society. city and work for 1 construction company M Xh Prize (Round 2 qualifier), BCAMSC She received academic awards from fixing streets and infostructure. Elizabeth “Libby” Marie Vroegop siddehi of the month. She also earned First school and received first place in the local (3.879 GPA), daughter of Lisa and John Team All- Conference, First Team All-District Write-Away contest’s essay category in 2018. Lily Ann Timsernian (3.986 GPA), Vroegop. and Battle Creek Enquirer All-Area Team all She plans to attend Cedarville University daughter of Chad andLeslie Timmerman. Libby was in the concert and marching for soccer. to study English with a creative writing minor band, cross country. Follies, kickline, drum­ Her school activities included varsity soft She plans are to attend Spring Arbor and plans to become a novel editor and an ball, varsity cross coantry. the Follids, kick­ line, soccer, National Honor Society, 4-H. University to study health and exercise author. line, National Honor Society, student council yearbook. Y-Mentors and the Green Team. through their pre-physical therapy program as She was the team captain in cross country and yearbook. HIGH WATER, continued from page 1------- --------- ---------- In March, collectively, the two pumps were taWnc. roughly half an inch ofr "e lak' CVe,y uxing rouj uy e. |(|a( rj(e was week he sal ■ erjng the |:j<e |cve| to a enough to beg: (heir properties point where residents were less •hreaten^L wo m()n|hs |a|cr Now not mu^ roCEle against the onslaught they ic back to as LL j eagerly awaits of floodwater. Mean" J1C slate Ihe approval ol a P< nl. Great Lakes. Department <>1 1 nllovv them to alleviate and linergy that would ah' *" nor|h some of the flooding by taking Inward I all Creek. EGI E public Last Thursday * * allowed residents hcarin:: via remote a<^qnC| surrounding lakes Irom Cloverdale. L°nl? ‘ . ^)k.nljal chang­ IO voice-heir opinions.^'^ ts that such change project engineer Brian Cenci. Watson Drain pR.senl„. hum GEI consultants. 5‘f (ructute changes Hon on the propose "1,r during the hearing. Pumping north is not a long-term solution he said. ‘The point of taking the water north is to get water down on 11 temporary basis.” Hie long-term solution involves taking the water south to infiltration beds. But, given the current volume of water in the lake anv attempt to release water into infiltration berk will flood them out, Cenci said. So they need to get the water on Crooked 1-ake low enough to send it to the infiltmtinn beds. un Multiple residents spoke up over their phones and the virtual chat box to share con corns regarding the planned changes. Dull, who was on the call, attempted to us • his own public comment time at the conclu­ sion of the hearing to answer some of h , questions. But, due to technical difficulties 1? could not respond to questions and comments ”1 wanted to clear up a couple of thIn ‘ because some of the questions were real! easy to answer,” he said. * So Dull addressed those concerns during a Grace Mackenzie Colwell and kickline, secretary for the National Honor Society and band section leader. ' Vroegop plans to attend Central Michigan ‘ University and major in social work or sociol­ ogy with a minor in international business and sustainable development. She would eventu­ ally like to work in disaster relief programs to help areas affected by poverty or natural disasters. Hailey Leona Buckner (3.824 GPA)', daughter of Jason and Nicki Buckner. * She was on the softball, cross country and volleyball teams, and was active in the 2020’ follies. National Honor Society and Y-Mentors. In softball, she earned All-Conference Honorable Mention, All-District Team, AllRegional and All-Area Honorable Mention. Buckner also was the varsity softball team captain and in cross country earned Iron Women. She plans to attend Adrian College, major­ ing in exercise science and playing softball.‘ She eventually plans to pursue a master’s degree in physical therapy. Grace Mackenzie Colwell (3.824 GPA), daughter of Jackie and Don Colwell. She participated in track and field, Student Council and the National Honor Society. Colwell also earned honors for English; chemistry and math. She plans to attend Western Michigan University to study psychology, with eventual plans to become a child psychiatrist. Michigan farmers eligible; for direct assistance i indudcd Tuesday interview'^ Should the Kaleb Ryan Post approve■d, Dull said, a between pte perm., uho lakes fro,n the in^1’™ ol tnvastve spe- cics. . , , ... ti. 1, is entered a 10-day waiting Ihe permtt 1;Gi,E so Period, until .»• , c •hat members of Publ,c ,na>'sml an>' fllr‘ •her continents or . . . .. After the ,| nO<J ,S °'Ct- *t,lh officials will dtt** whclhcr or 1,01 ,o aPPmve ’il'nidihen. D“" sBi<i-.a" llccan d0 is con’ tinue to run the Pul,,|,s ln Bn cflort lake levels. Michigan’s nearly 48,000 farmers may now enroll for coronavirus relief payments as part of the United States Department of Agriculture’s $16 billion Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. "Michigan is fortunate to be home to a strong, resilient and diverse food and ag sec­ tor. said Gary McDowell, director, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. "There is an army of people who grow, process, and retail our food who have also been hit hard by COVID-19. Governor Whitmer and MDARD continue to work with our partners al USDA to ensure our farmers and ag community members have access to the aid they need to weather this pandemic.” Under the CFAP program, the aid is prorat­ ed -- meaning farmers will receive 80 percent of payment in the initial distribution with the remaining 20 percent paid as funds remain available. Farmers should start receiving pay­ ment within a week of enrolling, with pay­ ments being capped at $250,000 per individu­ al recipient. Producers of all eligible commodities will apply through their local USDz\ Fann Service Agency office. Applications will be accepted through August 28, 2020. FSA has stream­ lined the sign-up process by not requiring an acreage rcfxirt al the lime of application, and a USDA farm number may not be immediate­ ly needed. Documentation to support the pro­ ducer’s application and certification may be requested. Individuals who receive less than 75 per­ cent of their income from farming can still receive CFAP payments if their adjusted gross income does not exceed $9O0JD00 annual­ ly. Corporalions, limited liability companies, or limited partnerships may qualify for addi­ tional payment limits where members actively provide personal labor or personal manage­ ment for the fanning operation. Below are USDA’s farmer guidelines: ’• For wool and row crops, including malting. barley, canola, com, upland cotton, millet,, oats, soybeans, sorghum, sunflowers, durum; wheat, and hard red spring wheat, payments will be based on inventory subject to price risk held as of Jan. 15. A payment will be made based on 50 percent of a producer’s 2019 total production or the 2019 inventory as of Jan. 15, whichever is smaller. That amount will be multiplied by lhe commodity's appli­ cable payment rales. For cattle, lambs, yearlings and hogs, lhe. payment will be calculated based on the pro­ ducer’s number of livestock sold between Jan. 15 and April 15. multiplied by lhe payment rates per head, and the highest number of livestock between April 16 and May 14, mul­ tiplied by lhe payment rate per head. For dairy producers, the payment will be based in part on lhe farmer’s milk production for the first quarter of 2020, multiplied by tlw national price decline during the same quarter. A second part of the payment will be based on ' a national adjustment to each producer's first-quarter production. For specialty crops, including, almonds, Ixjaiis, broccoli, sweet com. lemons, iceberg­ lettuce, spinach, squash, strawberries, and tomatoes, payments will be based on the amount a farm sold between Jan. 15 and April 15: lhe volume a farm shipped during the period but was not paid for; and lhe number of acres that was never harvested. More information and a full list of eligible crops can be found online al fanners.gov/ clap. ‘ �Papa 4 — Thursday, May 28.2020 — Ths1 Hastinpa Did you see; The mystery of the missing - and why you should care Spacious skies and bald eagles Local resident Glen GueJ2^M^r»orial believe his eyes: Right befor {i Day. he spotted the nations majestic symbol, the bald eagle. H tuary photo in the Bernard W. Baker near Bellevue and wanted I> sbar Ml with Banner readers to commemorate the Memorial Day holiday. Doyouremember? Selected for service Banner Jan. 25, 1962 Leave for pre-induction physicals The largest group of Barry County men to leave for Detroit for pre-induction physical examinations since October 1958 left the American Legion hall here Monday afternoon for exams Tuesday. In October 1958, during the period of the Lebanon crisis, 30 men were ordered to take physicals. Once in 1953, Barry County also sent 30 men for physicals, and during the Korean War, the call was large, with 77 going in August 1950 and 49 the next month. The group of 20 men, photographed just before they left here Monday, were (front row, from left) Ronald C. Geiger, Freeport, the leader of lhe contingent; Louis B. Thompson, R3 Middleville: Roland C. Apsey, R4 Hastings; James R. Bauchman, R5 Hastings; Rodney J. Havens, Hastings; Kenneth S. Adkins, R1 Dowling; Gary L. Yarger, Nashville, who was assistant leader of the group; (middle) Paul H. Pettengill, Hickory Corners; Dale M. Have you Mead. R5 Battle Creek: Maynard W. Walling, R1 Bellevue; Gordon L. Pennington, now of Lansing and formerly of Middleville; Ronald E Graham. R5 Hastings; Linford L. Smith. Hastings; Chester M. Janose, Hastings; (back) Rodney W. Shriver, Hastings: Jerald W. Harrison, Hastings: William Larry Cappon. Woodland; Dwight I. Pierce, formerly of Nashville now of Charlotte; Edwin E. Harrington, R1 Hastings; and Jerry G. Bagley, R1 Delton. (Photo by Barth) met? Charlie Ford, 96, still lives in the same Prairieville Township farmhouse where he was bom May 9,1924, to Robert and Dorothy (Miller) Ford. His dad was bom around the comer at Ford Point in a farmhouse that still stands there today. He’s often asked if he’s related to lhe industrialist Henry Ford. Indirectly, is his answer. “We are related, but distant relations,” he said. "And some of my relatives were always saying they met Henry Ford and were proud of it, but that’s all I know.” Ford's father was a farmer, as were his grandfather and great-grandfather. Ford’s home is a centennial farm. His mother was a teacher for a few years until she married his dad. She taught at North Pine School - where Charlie and his three younger brothers, Eugene. Sidney and Douglas, would later attend - at the southwest comer of Lindsey and Pine Lake roads. The four boys walked the 2 miles to school every day from their family fann. "There was no kindergarten back then," Ford said. “I started school back in the early ‘30s. I would have been around 6 years old, and we didn’t go to school all 12 grades because of the shortage of .school kids around here, so I can’t really tell you what year I finished. But I did take a short course at [what is now] MSU for a year after finishing there. It was an agricultural course because we were farmers.” He worked as a State Fann insurance agent out of his home from 1955 to 1990. Also in 1955, Ford helped form the Prairieville Township'Pine Lake Fire Department and ran the lire department as its chief for many years During those years, he made sure to attend the various parades m Prairieville and Hickory Corners. He met his wife, the late Maxine Senne, “out at the lake,” he said w ith a smile. They were married 57 years, but she has been gone for 20, “I took her to the hospital on a I nday night for emergency surgery and pulled the plug on Sunday.” he said, adding that her death was unexpected hut he supposed that the food.” For his longtime commitment to his community, Charlie Ford is this week's Bunner Bright Light. Charlie Ford that was best. They had three boys - Robert. Gerald. Randy - and adopted tw'o girls who were 2 and 6 years old at the time, Barbara and Nancy. Two children survive: Randy lives in Jefferson City. Mo., and Nancy, a nurse, lives in Paw Paw. Growing up on a farm. Ford was no stranger to woik, and that’s what keeps him going today, he said. He spends little time in other leisure. "Work. 1 like to work, that’s what I do,” he said. "I mean, we went to the occasional movie every once in a great while, bm nol very often.’’ His life is a simple one, he said. He K content to stay around the house, has always been satisfied with a hard day’s work and was raised by people who had the same philosophy. It suits him just fine, he said. Recently. Ford got involved with collecting food for a local food group. "I’m not a very good vook and snack mostly.” he said. "I figure the jieople can use If I could go anywhere: I’d slay right here. I guess because it’s easy. We never did much traveling. In fact, 1 was thinking about going down and dragging up another load of firewood. Favorite car: A Model T Ford. I’ve got a couple of them. I’ve got them in my garage and up at the museum. Best invention: Probably a tractor. I’ve got a lew- of them that aren’t running real good. I’ve got about 15 tractors, just because I like tractors, old tractors. I'm always looking for tractors. Favorite childhood memory: Probably when I’d go over to the neighbors and fann lor them. I enjoyed the work. Favorite movie: Just the old ones. If I could meet anyone: 1 have no idea. At this late time in my life. 1 have no idea knowing that tomorrow might be my las\ day. so I guess that’s about the only answer I’ve got. Best advice received: "Don’t be afraid of work.” 1 guess just the challenge of work. We were taught that when my dad was alive, and my grandad was a blacksmith. He had a blacksmith’s shop al the end of the barn. Person I most admire: 1 guess I’d have to go back to Henry Fond because of the way he’d do things. He built the Ford Motor Company, lie was a guy with a vision. Favorite hero: Roy Rogers. There was another one. but I can’t remember his name. Advice I’d give a high school student today: lake advantage of the good hick, I guess. Al my age, I had a lot of gmxi luck Each wi ck, the Banner profiles a person who makes lhe t immunity shine. Do y(Jl4 know someone who should he featured because of volunteer work, Jun loving personality, for the stories he or she has to 'ell or any other reason ' Send information to Newsroom, Hastings Banner, 735/ Highway. Hustinys. Ml or •■mail new\(a j-adyraphic\x'om. have featured a virtual sort of Citizens in Michigan have been excrcis,n8 their rights lately in high-profile ways. The May 14 protest in Lansing certainly grabbed national attention. Pugnacious people packing heal offered a visual display of the exercise of some sxsssr.-- — c<>re American freedoms we all hold dear participants that the pubhc can 1t be-_- part “ speech, assembly and the right to bear of the call; and. the best excuse of all, a arms - in one self-righteous kerfuffle in front of the state Capitol. "'‘^'‘"ou have elected official who It’s heartening to see citizens getting involved in the workings of their govern­ aren’t loo excited about being held account­ able and a technology tool that helps them ment, isn’t it? Or is it, instead, just another example of evade serious public scrutiny, what do you a continued and colossal dysfunction of the ^Here’s how it’s supposed to work, body politic? w Perhaps lhe more important question is according to the Digital Media why citizens hadn’t been exercising their Project: , ,, . “Governmental bodies may hold meet­ freedoms long before now by simply pay­ ing attention to what their local govern­ ings by written, telephonic, electronic, wireless or other virtual means. However, ment bodies are doing. It’s not just a matter of poor voter turn­ an electronic meeting is still subject to the out, which has been a well-documented notice requirements and must be held at a fact for decades. It’s the empty seals al designated place and time.... "The Michigan Open Meetings Act township and city halls that we’ve wit­ gives ’the public’ the right to attend the nessed for years. Who attends meetings locally? Pick any meetings of public bodies. ... Anyone may unit of government. (We can tell you attend. A public body may not put condi­ because we’re there taking notes and ask­ tions on attendance, such as requiring you ing questions.) The answer is few, if any, to give your name or other information.” Kevin Wilson, a Cloverdale Lake resi­ citizens. Usually lhe only attendees are those who’ve been elected to those boards dent. spoke passionately against this virtual meeting concept at the Watson Drain pub­ and commissions - and us. Reporting on local city, county, village, lic hearing, which took place remotely township and school board meetings is the May 21. "This is by no means a public hearing bedrock of community news, so we’re seri­ ous about our commitment to that cover­ because there is no way for anyone with a disability to be privy to this information,” age. That’s a good thing. Otherwise, how would residents know Wilson said, noting that he joined the virtu­ al hearing under the name Brandy Ness what’s going on? It’s amazing how’ much we learn by just because his house, under three-feet of water, no longer had electricity. showing up and paying attention. In our dream world, all elected officials Given the latest economic develop­ ments, one could argue that local news would feel a deep and abiding sense of coverage has never been so important - responsibility to the electorate and be and more complicated, thanks to some meticulous about ensuring public aware­ ness of their meetings and governmental recent executive orders Case in point: Executive Order 2020-75. activities. But that’s an illusion. On May 6, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer In reality, some of these boards and issued Executive Order 2020-75 extending the ability of public bodies to conduct councils run like little clubs, not elected bodies. You have to be elected to become a remote public meetings through June 30. This was a continuation of an earlier member but, then, you’re in - and the aver­ order allowing the ability of local boards, age citizen is out. In these cases,communiI commissions, committees, subcommittees, ties are truly ill-served. So. if members of the public aren’t authorities, councils and nonprofit boards to use telephone- or video-conferencing engaged, paying attention and asking good methods to continue meeting and conduct­ questions (many aren't, as noted above) ing business while ensuring lhe public has and reporters (the so-called watchdogs) are barred at the door via remote hookups, who access to join the meetings. Public bodies are required to provide knows what’s going on? That’s when all but a chosen few’ get detailed procedures by which the public may participate in the meeting remotely, locked out of the democratic process. The pandemic has illuminated some such as telephone number or website address, to provide procedures by which interesting aspects of communities and how they function - or fail to function. persons with disabilities may participate. On one hand, this order provided a tool Some citizens are beginning to recognize for local government to continue function­ the value of local reporting that’s credible ing while maintaining mandatory and accountable. Hopefully, they’re paying social-distancing guidelines to protect greater attention now to what’s being against the spread of COVID-19. On its reported about their local government. That’s the good news. face, that seemed reasonable. But hard times are not over. From what On the other hand, it seemed like people, stuck at home with nothing better to do. we can see, they are just beginning. Our role is clear. Do you know yours? If might choose - out of curiosity, if nothing else - to participate in their local govern­ you’re an elected official: Be mindful of ment. On its face, that seemed reasonable, your charge under the Michigan Open Meetings Act and do your best to ensure loo. that all citizens - reporters included - may Thus far, no such luck on either hand. And, speaking of hands - as in sleight of participate in the process. hand - this technological tool sure can be If you are a citizen, we hope you are choosing to participate. misused. We’ve had a devil of a time covering As for us? We are your faithful watch­ some elected boards. We’ve been locked dog, reporting for duty. out before, but the past couple of months All voters receiving applications to vote by mail All registered voters in Michigan will receive an application to vote by mail in the August and November elections. “By mailing applications, we have ensured that no Michigander has to choose between their health and their right to vote,’’ Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said. “Voting by mail is easy, convenient, safe and secure, and every voter in Michigan has the right to do it.” Of the 7.7 million registered voters in lhe slate, about 13 million are on the permanent absent voter list, and their local election clerks mail applications to them ahead of every election. AdditionaBy.somcjurisdictions are mailing applications to all local registered voters, 'fhe Michigan Department of State’s Bureau of Elections has ensured all remaining registered voters receive an application. “We appreciate that some clerks are proactively protecting public health by mailing applications to all their registered voters, and we are fulfilling our responsibility lo provide all voters equal access,” Benson said, “We know from the elections that took Place this month that during the pandemic, Michiganders want to safely vote.” Record-breaking turnout was recorded in the approximately 50 elections conducted in 33 counties May 5. with nearly 25 percent of eligible voters casting ballots and 99 percent of them doing so by mail or in a drop box. brom 2010 to 2019, average turnout in local elections in May was 12 percent. The application mailing from the Bureau of Elections includes a cover letter with instructions from Secretary Benson. Once a voter signs an application, he or she can mail it or email a photo of it to lhe local clerk, whose contact information is included on the application. Die application also is available tor download al Michigan.gov/vote. At the same website, voters also may register and join the permanent absent voter list so they always have lhe option to vole by mail. “lhe vast majority of voters across the political spectrum want the option to vote by mail, Benson said. “Mailing applications to all registered voters is one of the ways that we are ensuring Michigan’s elections will continue to be safe, accurate and secure.” �A senior’s view of graduation Savnnah Kncchclc Tn™, C^>rribmi,li; Writer “ndenstatenicnt "°r >C" n"'' by "°Uld year’nt"i<'9 -^20 school year was my final w.. ? k .af‘,n School. Our graduation wh• ‘>Cd For Ma> 29 lhc gy mnasium. w . ,a,n»y and friends could gather and h-i n u cervniony But. before that could ‘ PPcn. the schools were tuled closed for the % mamder ot the school year due to the novel *-orona\ inis. Along with the closure of schools came cancelations ot many spring events including graduation. Although 1 can’t speak for all seniors because surely everyone has different opin­ ions on this situation, I think it is safe to say We have all liad at least one thing, one moment, one memory taken from us by this unique situation. Kor me, crossing those expected spring events off my calendar was difficult. All of these end-of-the-ycar events were traditions, and tradition is a major part of the student experience for many schools, especially Martin. I know a Jot of school stall people have been working tirelessly to reschedule and plan these special events for the seniors, because they know moving on to another chapter without finishing the last will be haul. So, although our high school days were not concluded in a traditional way, many of us w ill still receive some sort of graduation cer­ emony. I am beyond thankful for the efforts by teachers and school staff members who are trying to make up for something that is out of their control. Along with graduation, many events and traditions have been canceled, including the senior trip to Mackinac Island, senior prom, our last class meetings, and lhe senior awards ceremony. During the awards ceremony, our tradition­ al senior slideshow would have been shown for the whole school to enjoy. The slideshow includes pictures of all of the seniors during their time at Martin. Although we weren’t able to watch that slideshow together, we still received the disc to play for ourselves. Viewing the slideshow was bittersweet, ns it probably would have been. But seeing my classmates and myself in it was surreal. Another senior tradition at Martin is the painting of a senior tile. All of the seniors gel to paint a ceiling tile to be put up after gradu­ ation. While this may seem like a small ges­ ture, it is another way for us to leave our mark. 1 remember lying down in the hallway with my friend during my freshman year and looking up at all the colorful markings left by the seniors who had gone before us. We were already springing ideas off one another for our own. With the effort and planning of the staff at Manin, we still have lhe opportunity to fulfill this tradition. Teachers and staff members have worked hard to try and make known their appreciation and care for the seniors. They have done this by organizing a drive-in stadium light-view­ ing. a car and bus parade to distribute caps and gowns as well as gift baskets, and sending letters to each of the seniors. When I look at this school year and how it ended. I sec some pro/con situations: Pro: We don’t have to take Mr. Boyd’s 100plus question psychology exam. Con: We didn’t get to sit in his messy old science lab and receive our very last “Mr Boyd hand shake.’’ In reality, we did receive this earlier in the school year, we just didn’t know at the lime it would be our very last. Although the cons may outweigh lhe pros in some cases, there is always a bright side. (Write Us A Letter: . ' ' The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: •All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. ■ - Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks’’ will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. a.................... • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; U.S. mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D C 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Gary Peters, Democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510­ 2202 phone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room 720 110 Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 23391president’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. 77 line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings IScllHier Devoted to the Interests of Barry County since 1856 Pjb'^edb/.. Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N M*43 Highway • Phono: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 New- and press releases' news@)-adgraph>cs com • Advertising: ads&j-adgraphics.com Frederic Jacobs pub'isher & CEO Hank Schuuring CFO .newsroom• Rebecca Pififce (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer (Sports Editor) Greg Chandler Taylor Owens ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT. C'r-' '■ed accepted Monday through Friday fi-BOam to5 00pni Scott Ommen Ty Greenfield Mike Gilmore Colleon Eg|estOn Jennie Yonker Subscription Rates: $45 per year in Barry County $50 per year in adjoining counties * $55 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER S«nd Mdrtji dnngtu |q PO 163 Hai'.r.gz Ml 4W58-01M Second CLnb Postage Pa.d itHastngs, Ml 49056 Great job, seniors. You made it! MADE it should give them great confidence for the coming years. ■ We wish them all the very best. To the editor. I want to wish all of the graduating seniors from all the schools in Barry County a heart­ felt congratulations for their achievements in attaining their high school completion. Even though these students may not have a graduation ceremony, the fact that they Savanah Kaechele of Gun Lake is graduating from Marlin Public Schools this month. She is a contributing writer at J-Ad Graphics. (Photo provided) The gixxl things may seem small, but don’t let them pass by. Having this lime to reflect on the last four years of high school made me realize that I took for granted a lot ot the events and activ­ ities I did* get to attend. The range of traditions is wider than I had realized. from events as simple as a football game to lhe National Honors Society induction ceremony. In a way. I’m glad this situation happened at this time in my life because, without it, I’m afraid I would have taken graduation for granted as well. Now, when the lime comes to have a graduation of some sort, I think many students will appreciate it in a way they could not have done before So. the senior class of 2020 has been through a lot in the last couple of months. We are still saying goodbye to many memories and closing a chapter of our lives, but not in lhe way we expected. I also didn’t expect that I would be able to say 1 am attending Hope College in the fall. Before attending college. I look forward to celebrating the closure of one chapter and the commencement of a new one with my friends and family when we can safely do so. In the meantime, 1 think it is important for the seniors to remember to appreciate the little things - and appreciate the people who arc trying to cushion the impact of this situation for us. Most importantly, appreciate these lasl few months before our new chapter, whatever it may hold, begins. .• City OKs proposed [koolget Savanah Kaechele Contributing Writer A topic w idely discussed during the City of Hastings special budget workshop lasl week was a proposed 10 percent cut in City Manager Jerry Czarnecki’s salary. After lhe council’s regular meeting Tuesday, Czarnecki said the proposed cut was not included in the final plan. He is on track for a 3-percent increase, along with everyone else, he said. lhe 3-percent increase for Czarnecki was already sched­ uled for July, and will raise his current sal­ ary of $85,000 to $872550. His reason for proposing a 10-percent pay cut was to help the fund balance, he said after lhe meeting. “Every little bit counts. Jane (Saurman. city clerk/treasurer] and her staff dug into the accounts and found a bunch of little bits and pieces to cut and, when you put all the little bits and pieces together. )ou get a big piece. The cuts made to the budget, including projects not matched by grants and other big purchases, were strategically chosen. These items would lie more easily added back into the budget after the city receives the state revenue sharing. The final budget results in the general fund unassigned balance beginning with $2 629 864 and ending m S2.656.752; a decrease of $26,888. The major and local street funds, the other two funds impacted the most by the state revenue cuts, resulted in an ending balance 0^280353 for major streels snd $302,401 for localI sWe£ The plan shows a total decrease of $33,930 in the major strceb fimd balance and a ota decrease of S*8-556 Iocal 5lree,s fund balance. . , During the city managers report, c', t; nave an update . to the council Czarnecki ... r, r . his wellness and expressed his appreciation for ">e W™?'of 'l,c budfe‘“I ai>preci#,< “Wbodj 'vho ":a'-Tied out and asked about my condition. There-, no underlying eond.non and the doctor has i»el,n foU' houn> a da> ll,r ,l,e next two weeks to see how that works mov­ ing forward." sa,d- ’> have an amaztng staff; ihey're d0111!1 a vvondcrtul job. ' I'very cnipl°yee that we have here with th • - t is do^ a wonderful job, and 1 appreciate ‘I* «f ‘he budget that allows us K> can 10 l,PPrec,alc them moving f°rWU|d. Bill and Virginia Redman, Hastings Sheriff should maintain jaii, not public-speaking engagements To the editor: . I don’t mind Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf saying he won’t enforce any stay-at-home orders. Of course, no way am I voting to hand over millions of dollars for a new jail. Perhaps if Leaf spent more time focused on the existing jail, he wouldn’t need the money. The Barry County Board of Commissioners .should think about that. Larry Osborn^, Hastings I Protect the moth - turn out the lights! To the editor: One of the most underappreciated, yet important, pollinators in nature is the moth. I would like to promote an effort to protect the moth. ’Hie moth comes out after dark for night­ shift pollination duty. The most relevant cru­ sade for any moth, due to their nocturnal nature, is protection from light pollution. Artificial light is believed to be a factor in the decline of lhe moth. Research has jet to produce a satisfying answer to the puzzling question: “Why are moths so drawn to lights?” But an important point is that moths do fly into artificial light sources - by the millions and that reduces its population in several ways. Metamorphosis: Like the butterfly, a moth begins life as an egg laid on or near its host plant. 'Die egg hatches into a liny caterpillar. Not only are the moth and butterfly important pollinators as adults, but, in their caterpillar stage, they make the best insects for lhe birds to feed their growing fledglings. One of lhe most common dangers for the moth is light pollution, which alters and inter­ feres with the timing of necessary biological activities in lhe short lives of these adult insects. Moths, along with other nocturnal species, begin their daily activities al sun­ down. Artificial lights at night seriously con­ strain their life, exposing them to predators and reducing the time they have to find food, shelter and mates to reproduce. What can we humans do? Since moths are more sensitive to some wavelengths of light WELL AIMED ICOW FLOODLIGHT than others, placing motion sensors on securi­ ty lights or replacing white lights wiih yplloty lights arc good options. Yellow lights arc u wavelength lhai mollis don’t respond 10 - and that will make an enormous difference for the population of lhe night-flying moth. , You may be working to protect other polljnators. like bees and butterflies, so let's also, “Protect lhe moth - turn out the lightsfC’ ‘ Protection from light pollution is a relevant factor in the decline of our ncxtumal insects and it obscures our view of the wondroip night sky! ,.r-f » • Amy Seymour, Dpltofi In search of a Constitutional border To the editor: zens. Look it up. The word “citizen” does not Here is a link to the United States appear in the Bill of Rights. ’ Constitution: https://www.archives.gov/ Here is a link to look at die Amendments tb founding-docs/conslitution-transcript the U.S. Constitution: https://conslitutio4. Look at it. It’s cool. I have three little pock­ findlaw.conVamendmenls.himl et-sized booklets with the entire text of the The First Amendment guarantees to every­ Constitution so that I have one nearby all the one the rights of religion, speech, the press, tb assemble and petition the government. It time. Today. 1 looked up the word “border” in (he mentions “the people,” but not citizens. The Constitution so I could see what it said about Second Amendment guarantees lhe right to our borders. I could not find the word “bor­ keep and bear amis to “the people.” The der.” I couldn’t find “immigrant” in there, Fourth Amendment protects the right of “the either. Those people who make a very big deal people” to be free from unreasonable searches about how our borders are sacrosanct, you and seizures. The Fifth Amendment guaran­ know sacred, not to lx? ignored or violated, tees certain rights in criminal cases, including protected at all costs, including any costs to freedom from being “deprived of life, liberty, human life and well-being, will not find any or property, without due process of law” for “persons,” not just for citizens. justification for this in lhe Constitution. The Sixth Amendment, which specifically 1 did find the word "citizen” many times, including in the amendments to the applies to “all criminal prosecutions,” pro­ Constitution. Very importantly, the 14th vides for the right to a fair trial, including a Amendment guarantees all rights, privileges speedy and public trial by an impartial jury and immunities to all persons bom or natural­ and the “Assistance of Counsel” for all “the ized in lhe United States, including due pro­ accused.” not just accused citizens. Please keep the Constitution in mind when you think cess and equal protection. The 15th Amendment is short enough to about the way immigrants arc treated. Don't take my word for it. Do a word quote it entirely: “The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or search. If you don’t know how: Go to the abridged by the United Stales or by any Stale Constitution website and. on your computer on account of race, color, or previous condi­ keyboard, simultaneously press the control key (or “Ctrl” key) and “f’ (for find) and it tion of servitude.” 1 also find it instructive that the rights will give you lhe word-search function dis­ guaranteed by lhe Bill of Rights, lhe first 10 play box. You will not find lhe word “border.” , Amendments to lhe Constitution, do not limit those rights to citizens. They promise these Dr. Kenneth M. Komheiser, rights will be protected to all “persons” in lhe Prairieville Township United Stales or to “the people,” not just citi­ OPEN Monday-Saturday 10 am-3 pm \ | •Uunkjiou forww patience 1 Laundry & Dry Cleaning Services $ rtxiy Tor Cur Salim'? < 218 E. Su»St,Ha3t;ngs ) 945-9673 Hulst Owners PicK Up Station ]——J $ �p~rto„ woU|d be ‘devastating’ for districts, superintendents say . Thylor Owens J Staff Writer School districts arc a month away from • end of their fiscal year, but administrator'* * ’ ’ don't know if they will receive all the fending ’ they were promised. J Barry County school superintend • • there is a possibility lhe state of Michigai • issue a proration, which would cut tun i g • the current fiscal year, in order to save J next vear. . • .j ' “The first question on every** s md^ . ‘Arc we going to have our revenue P * . this year'?' " Thomepple Kellogg Ass£« 'Superintendent and Chief financial Officer • Craig McCarthy said. erhnols ■ While the fiscal year ends Junerc0. typically continue to receive thei • . ing for that year into Julynktrict i Barry Intermediate School Dratnct Superintendent Rich Franklin specuhated on I the possibility of a "clawback, rttt > «ould ; remove funding from state payments > et to be J made to districts in this ... ; While the jury’s out on what actions w IIU ; taken, area school officials are certatn of this » much: l ■rhe state is looking for ways to save cV. since projections show a $3.2 billion loss in tax revenue, according to the state Consensus Revenue Estimating Conference that took place May 15. District officials also are expecting a state cut to their per-pupil funding, which they receive for each student enrolled during the fiscal year. This year they received $8,111. but the conference estimated that amount may be cut by around S650. A proration is one path lhe state may take to save money, but superintendents wonder how they could be expected to save money after it’s been spent. •'We are nearly to lhe end of lhe school year, have spent our annual supply budgets, have contracts in place to pay employees, and we may lose funding after incurring all of these expenses.” McCarthy said. “Il will be a devastating blow to all the state’s school dis­ tricts if this happens." ‘•The year is almost over.” Hastings Area Schools Director of Operations Tim Berlin said. ‘‘I don’l sec how there’s any way we could cut any expenses from the current year — we’re so close to being done." “A proration this in our budget year will be really devastating for ‘Y Hv • ance, which we hsJ7usl'res,(”e<1 ab° '« S'C percent this 7?’'. Map* Val7 Superintendent v^hcrine Bcrtolim. “Receiving a proratj™, this late in our cyc,c doesn’t allow Lt to react or cut any­ thing, so it simplytakes a huge w>lh»lrawl>1 from our general fMnd , . ■•This is going to h’urt districts at the worst possible time as we set our budgets for next year." Delton Kellogg schools Superintendent Kyle Corlett said his’district has been finding ways to save money, and isin a much bc,l<:r position to deal with'ihe crisis than they were five or six years ago. “The biggest concern for mc is, the lonf term picture for education, wc nlready seeing a decline in the enrollment of educa­ tion programs at colleges an^ ^1C amount °f |)coplc wanting to pursue a career in educa­ tion," Corlett said. “Wc understand that state leaders have a lot of difficult decisions to make right now, but it doesn’t feel like sup­ porting education and our K-12 schools have been a priority.” Manufacturing back in action Greg Chandler Staff Writer In mid-February, Hastings-based Flcxfab **LLC furloughed 63 factory workers after one of its largest customers. Boeing Inc., stopped production on its 737-Max aircraft. Flexfab produces a hose that is a critical part on the engine for those aircraft. * “The 737 [business] was huge for us. so ’ when they shut it down, it was a huge impact ’ for us,” Bill Rohr, Flexfab’s director of human resources, said. Then a month later, the new coronavirus pandemic struck, further complicating ' operations at Flexfab and other Barry County 'manufacturers. Some companies were forced to shut down after they were deemed non­ essential. Flexfab continued on, since it is a major supplier of hoses for the heavy-duty truck industry and was deemed an essential ‘manufacturer. "That hose that keeps the turbo-charged air connector to the engine [on the truck] - it ■.doesn’t seem very important, but it is,” Rohr w - said, "lite engine doesn’t run if that hose isn’t there. If we were shut down and they couldn’t get these hoses, you can’t run that engine. It’s like lhe radiator hose on your car. If you don’l have that radiator hose, you’re not running that car.” Now, two weeks since Gov. Gretchen Whitmer gave the go-ahead for manufacturers to fully resume operations, Flexfab is approaching full operation. More than 30 of lhe employees who were furloughed in February' arc back on lhe job, and Rohr said he is optimistic that more workers will be called back soon, particularly if Boeing is able to resume production on lhe 737-Max. “Once they get that back up and running, we’ll be supplying them parts and needing people to do it." he said. While manufacturers across the county are resuming operations, it’s with a different look and feel than before lhe outbreak. John Walsh, executive director of the Michigan Association of Manufacturers, said companies now must bear in mind lhe health and safety of the financial FOCUS Provided by the Barry County offices of Edward Jones Member SI PC Jim Lundin 2169 W.M-43-Hwy., Suite A Hastings, Ml 49058 (269)818-0423 Jeff Domenico, AAMS0 450 Meadow Run Dr. Suite 100 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-8265 Know risk tolerance at different stages of life As an investor, you’ll al­ means you’ll likely need to ways need to deal with risk of maintain a relatively high some kind. But how can you risk tolerance. Nonetheless, manage the risk that’s been it’s a good idea to have some made clear by lhe recent vola­ balance in your portfolio, so tility in lhe financial markets? you’ll want to consider a mix The answer to this question of investments that align with may depend on where you are each of your goals. in life. When you're a few years Let’s look at some different from retirement ... Now, you life stages and how you might might have already achieved deal with risk at each of them: some key goals - perhaps When you're first starting your kids have finished col­ out ... If you’re early in your lege and you’ ve paid off your career, with perhaps four or mortgage. This may mean you even five decades to go until have more money available you retire, you can likely af­ to put away for retirement, ford to invest primarily for but you’ll still have to think growth, which also means carefully about how much risk you’ll be taking on a higher you’re willing to take. Since level of risk, as risk and re­ you’re going to retire soon, ward are positively correlated. you might consider rebalanc­ But, given your age, you have ing your portfolio io include time to overcome the market some more conservative in­ downturns that are both in­ vestments, whose value is less evitable and a normal part of susceptible to financial market investing. Consequently, your fluctuations. ’lhe reason? In risk tolerance may be rela­ just a few years, when you’re tively high. Still, even at this retired, you will need to start stage, being over-aggressive taking withdrawals from your investment portfolio - es­ can be costly. When you ‘re in the middle sentially. you’ll be selling stages ... At this time of your investments, so, us much as life, you’re well along in your possible, you’ll want to avoid career, and you’re probably selling them when their price working on at least a couple oi is down. Nonetheless, having financial goals, such as saving a balanced and diversified for retirement and possibly for portfolio doesn’t fully protect your children’s college educa­ against a loss. However, you tion. So, you still need to be can further reduce the future investing for growth, which risk of being overly dependent on selling variable invest­ ments by devoting a certain percentage of your portfolio to cash and cash equivalents and designating this portion to be used for your daily expenses during the years immediately preceding, and possibly spill­ ing into, your retirement. When you ’re retired... Once you’re retired, you might think you should take no risks at all. But you could spend two or three decades in retirement, so you may need some growth potential in your portfolio to stay ahead of inflation. Estab­ lishing a withdrawal rale - the amount you take out each year from your investments - that’s appropriate for your lifestyle and projected longevity can reduce the risk of outliving your money. Of course, if there’s an extended market downturn during any time of your retirement, you may want to lower your withdrawal rate temporarily. As you can see, your toler­ ance for risk, and your meth­ ods of dealing with it, can change over time. By being aware of this progression, you can make better-informed in­ vestment decisions. 77;/v article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Eduard Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SI PC Water ’s Edge Financial LLC Jeffrey A. Keessen, AIF,U (269) 948-9969 525 W Apple St. Hastings, MI 49058 www,watersedgefinancial.coin Taking t are of what's important to you so that you can focus on what matters most to you jH&rv A. K*tw« All- ullricJ ihnmgh Lpl. Fbuucut, Member HNRA/S1PC employees who go to work every day. “The good news is that most manufacturing facilities, just by the nature of manufacturing today, there’s more spacing to begin with." Walsh said. “In the line, where in the process people will be closer together, there has been some engineering to avoid contact within 3 to 6 feel. And if then you can’t [avoid contact], that’s when you deploy the personal protection equipment to allow people to work a little closer together, but more safely." Flexfab is taking to heart the concern about maintaining operations while adhering to health and safety challenges that have been heightened by the pandemic. Rohr said the company is doing all it can to address those concerns. “We follow all the [U.S.Centers for Disease Control] protocols, the OSHA protocols, the executive order protocols," he said. “We’re doing temperature checks [on employees]. We’re doing face mask coverings. We’re doing the social distancing. We’ve got X’s every where [on the floor] - here’s 6 feet from this line. We have hand sanitizers everywhere. Wc have wipes everywhere. We fog the place twice a week." Flexfab even had a visit from a Spectrum Health infectious disease specialist to do an evaluation of the company’s practices in trying to limit lhe spread of lhe virus. Rohr said. . Spectrum Health has been offering guidance to businesses throughout West Michigan on best practices to prevent the spread of infection among employees as companies resume manufacturing operations. “Many businesses are facing unprecedented challenges, from financial loss to securing cleaning supplies to a work force reluctant to come back due to safety concerns," Keith Hustak. Spectrum Health vice president of urgent care and occupational and virtual health, said in a prepared statement. “We are here io help and support employers and employees by sharing our expertise with easyto-use health and safety resources.” While the aerospace division of Flexfab took a bit of a hit from Boeing’s shutdown of the 737-Max production line, lhe company has been diverse enough to absorb the loss continuing to supply other Boeing product lines, such as lhe 787 Dreamliner, as well as the heavy-duty truck and automotive industries with hoses and connectors. One of lhe major challenges Flexfab has faced is trying to keep track of its customers in lhe supply chain, but Rohr is optimistic that any restrictions they may have run into recently are being relaxed. “Some places were open and then they closed for a while and then they reopened.” Rohr said. “That’s been the hardest part, keeping track. You can have one customer, but they could have 10 different plants in 10 different states. Ohio does it this way, Illinois does it that way, and Pennsylvania does it this way. They might all be Volvo [factories]. Volvo is the customer, but the different plants have different governors [regulating manufacturing].” Walsh said, while it may take some time for manufacturing in the state io gel back io where it was prior to the pandemic, he is nonetheless optimistic on the chances for recovery. . “Two months ago, the No. 1 concern in our membership was talent, making sure they had enough people to fill the jobs they had, he said. “Now certainly, it will gel to a point where they’ve called ever)one back, it’s going to come back in waves as the economy recovers. We were booming two months ago, and now- there’s a little more hesitation in the market.” Walsh also said he sees op^rtunity for manufacturers to develop new products as a result of the pandemic “Where I think we have -some great opportunities, beyond lhe immediate challenges, will be more manufacturing of Personal Protection EquipmenI’” said’’There's a worldwide dem^ ^or *1, Our attitude at the MM/\ is (hat we can do it and we should do it right here in Michigan.” ChrLsJopherStrahle Weda Rae Montague, age 87. of Hastings "ent to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, May 26,2020. Her manner of death was timed so as to -sooth lhe grief of those who held her dear in this life, but also to exemplify the blessedness of those that die in the peace, and joy of lhe Lord. She passed in the full assurance of faith. "Walking over lhe waters of Jordan... shouting lhe praises of redeeming love.” “Moll” Weda was born in Knott County, KY on August 30.1932. She is survived by her loving husband of 65 years, Albert (Pele) Montague; sister. Gail Rantz; brothers, Goble Messer. Walt Messer. Bristol Messer, Ishmael Messer; son-in-law, Keill) Prati. and many more family members and friends. Due to the pandemic, her funeral will be privately held at Lauer Family Funeral Homes 1401 N. Broadway in Hastings. Condolences can be sent to Pete at 7198 11 Mile RD NE Rockford, Ml 49341 or al www.lanerfli.com. Jeffory Burton Gillons, age 66, of Hastings. Michigan, passed away on May 24, 2020 with his beloved son Jason and sister Terry’ by his side. Jeffory' was bom on March 15. 1954 in Hastings, the son of Wesley Burton and Opal Marie (Haney) Gillons. Jeffory' aticnded Hastings High School. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and mushroom hunting. He was a Michigan Slate Fan. His nickname was "Turtle". He loved animals, the outdoors, and spending time with his family. Jeffory was preceded in death by his nephew, Nolan Heath and sister-in-law, Julie Gillons. He is survived by his parents. Wesley and Opal Gillons; his son. Jason (Shannon) Gillons; granddaughters, Alexus. Rylie, Kaidence, Nevada; sister. Terry (Keith) Bushee; brothers. Greg. Danny, and Mitch Gillons. many nieces and nephews and special friends, Mike Clum. Joe and Lori. A celebration of life gathering will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2020 from noon 10 6 p.m at 124 W. Broadway Street, Woodland. MI 48897. Arrangements by Girrbaeh Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. ginbachfuneralhome.net. ___ Larry Duane Boise Larry Duane Boise passed away on April 24.2020 at 78 years old. He was bom January 20, 1942 to Leo and Bertha (Easy) Boise in Assyria Township, Barry County. Private ceremony and burial has taken place. Christopher Strahle. age 29. of Hastings, passed away on May 21.2020. Christopher was born in Grand Rapids, on March 28. 1991. the son of Patty Ann (Cadwell) Knutson. Christopher attended Kentwood Public schools and worked at Walgrecn’s as a team leader and then in the pharmacy. He had just recently started at 5 3 Bank Call Center. He loved his new job and friends he made there. He loved spending time with his mother, his family, his niece, and his dog. He enjoyed gaming, tubing, family vacations, going to the movies, and going to lhe ocean. Penguins were his favorite. Christopher was preceded in death by his great-grandpa Wayne Pollock, and his grandpa Daniel Frank Briggs. He is survived by his mother, Patty Knutson; his sister. Crystal Knutson; brother, Daniel (Danielle) Knutson; step-dad. Chris McManamey; niece, Leigha Wheaton, and grandma, Janel Trainor, and tons of other friends and family. A memorial service will be held for Christopher at a later date. Arrangements by Girrbaeh Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. Joan Eyvonne Taggart, age 79, of Freeport, went to be with her Lord and Savior on May 24, 2020. Joan was bom on December 31. 1940. lhe daughter of Warren and Myrtle (Waters) Kidder. On July 26. 1957. Joan married Richard W. Taggart. She worked at Simpson Industries later known as Metadyne for 22 years before retiring. Joan worked in ministry al several churches with her husband. She was a member oi lhe Alto Baptist Church and enjoyed quilting and reading. Joan will be remembered for her love of God and family. Joan was preceded in death by her parenls, Warren and My rile Kidder; three brothers. Warren. Richard and Johnny Kidder, three si,s!crs.’ Yivian Sturtz’ Jo>ee Morgan and Naomi Nichols, and two sons. Clinton and Gene Taggart. She is survived by her son. Dwayne (Jeanette) Taggart and daughter, Rebecca (Jason) Ringleka; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Due to lhe Michigan Governor’s Lxtcuiivc Order limiting galherimis, a memorial sen ice officiated by Pastor Timothy leal! will be scheduled al a later date at Alto Baptist Church. Arrangements by Girrbaeh Funeral Home. Io leave an online condolence, visit www. ginbachtuneralhome.net. CASINO, continued from page 1 ———_____ J-uke Tribal Health and Human Services apartment on sanitization processes and cleanlincss recommendations for the hospital lt>’ industry, as well as other pertinent mdusInes.” Hie complete reopening of the casino will be phases. ibe finu phase, beginning June 8. will allow guests 21 years and older access to the pnipcrty in a primarily smoke tree environ­ ment, with lace masks required. "!r" ei‘'i"U>S West Michi monffis h^suK-'0 rc'OpCn I-irekeeix-rs fasino in Brat!c Creek ts set to »I«>' June I with similar 1 ° e^&2^1”‘«a'-™K.oWn. Mount 1-leas mt " t n ° ?ni‘ Re">r* in Ibeirvasim, pro^rttes t□ imat •< ‘ <>PCni'’£ —>-!! opc„ lo th, �/ fl look back at the stories and columns on local history in the Hastings Banner turning BflGK THE PAGES That was yesterday: Farm life Continued Edna Bechtel (191I-200J) ,)TO,t. aboul her family and their farm life i,, Thomapple luar ap ,n “s‘ries b‘«m "< Oct. 26 199.5 Banner. Laist week's feature touched on her lineage and how her family lived through a cold winter after their home was destroyed by fire. Edna Bechtel All of (he children attended the nearby Duncan Lake School.Thomapple District No 4. a one-room brick school, which had kindergarten and all eight grades with one teacher for 30 or more pupils. Everyone walked to school, some as far as two miles Everyone carried lunch, which in the winter was placed around the big iron stove that heated the school room. There was no playground equipment or toys at school. 1 here were a few rojK* swings hung from tree limbs in the school yard. We played Hide and Seek. London' Bridge. Prisoner s Goal or Anti I-Ovcr. and of course, baseball. There were no water fountains. Drinking water was pumped by hand from lhe well in the school yard, and the water was set in a pail at the front of the school room with one long­ handled dipper for all to use. We used slates and slate pencils or chalk for working arithmetic problems and writing our lessons. Lor w riting tests, we used paper and pencils so the teacher could grade the papers. Duncan Creek ran the entire length of the farm. It w as too shallow for sw imming, but as children, we spent many happy hours wading 1 and bathing or fishing with willow poles cut from lhe trees along the bank, using worms for bait and often having bent pins for fish hooks. Al one point, where the banks were high, a large tree trunk was felled across the creek to enable us to w-alk across to a large orchard that had many varieties of apples — Spys, delicious. Baldwins, Russels, sweet apples. Greening. Wolf Rivers and Duchess. A smaller orchard beside the house had peaches, pears, plums, cherries and yellow transparent apples. One field had a deposit of clay soil, and we often made clay figures or mud pies, or clay loaves of bread, baking them in the sun and frosting them with while house paini. The latter part of February when the snow began to melt, we lapped the sugar bush about 125 maple trees - and began the process of making maple syrup. In a good season, lhe sap was collected several times a day and was strained into 30-gallon wooden barrels mounted on a stone boat, a horse-drawn sled made of small logs. When the barrels were full, they were taken to the sugar shanty, w here they were rolled up on a scaffold, and the sap was run slowly into a shallow pan divided into several sections with gates at the opposite ends of each section, allowing lhe sap to mix slowly as it boiled. The pan was set on a long open furnace called an arch, which was about five feet long. After the sap boiled lor some time, the gates in lhe pan were opened, allowing the thin syrup to pass into one section for finishing. When it reached the proper thickness, it !o a five-gallon cream can and was run ini house for the final step. Here, it taken to the <x>ked in a deep galvanized pan was again c eet square and seven inches deep, about ihree f e the boiling point, it was cleansed Just befon mixture of beaten egg and milk. by adding a While some students had to walk more than a mile to get to the Duncan I ake School, the Bechtel children merely had to cross the road. (Barry County Historical Society “Rural History Bookshelf" photo) As it boiled, the egg-milk mixture came to the lop and was constantly skimmed off with a long-handled metal skimmer to remove lhe impurities that had been collected in the syrup. Now it was tested for the proper thickness. Syrup that is too thin molds. If it’s too thick, it forms rock candy in the containers. Finally, it was strained through the new white outing flannel to remove any impurities that might have escaped the cleansing process. This resulted in a clear amber syrup, which was then ready to run off into one-gallon tin cans or two-quart glass canning jars and scaled, ready to deliver to the customers. When rains occurred during syrup season, the sap was emptied and thrown away because the rain water caused lhe sap to sour, making it unfit for syrup. If there was only a small amount of rain waler in the sap, it was gathered separately and partially boiled and added to the vinegar barrel. As soon as lhe trees began to bud, the season ended, because after the trees were in bud, the syrup became dark and strong and unfit for use. It was often necessary to boil syrup all night, so my parents alternated, with one watching the syrup while the other one slept. It takes 30 gallons of sap and many hours of work to make one gallon of synip, which in the early days sold for 75 cents a gallon. Later, the price increased to $250 a gallon. Today’s average price is $27 per gallon. We also made and sold maple sugar, shaped as stars, shells, hearts, leaves or small round patties. Our synip was sometimes sent as far east as Vermont and as far west as California. Often, wc had sugar parties for the neighborhood and for the school children since scarcely anyone else in the community made maple synip. Frequently, we served hot taffy on the snow, which was a special treat and sometimes we pulled taffy for guests. ' In lhe fall, we made a lot of apple butter This meant long hours of peeling bushels of apples that were combined with gallons of fresh cider in a huge copper-lined iron kettle J\(ewborn babies Kuvenna Kosalynn ^“d^b<202()'toPJ5iu<>ca Health Pennock on Reed of Hastings. Pennock on May 14, 2020 to Jacqueline Cooper and Aaron Heaven of Hastings, n' 4 *** * Quinn MidieUe <’e^'"]J.i|>"lNesiiuili and Health Pennock to Brent Gc-ren of Barry C ountyRonan Luther Gilbert, b°n Health Pennock on NM jarnic McVeigh and Corey Gilbert on i , at Specirutn Health Silas Heaven, bom at =*I Amara Raelce Zebrowski, bom al Spectrum Health Pennock on May 15, to Tonya Shepherd and Chester Zebrowski of Hastings carter Jay DeWitt, born at Spec^ Health Pennock on May 14.2020 to lk-W|le Gdula and IVler DeWitt of Middleville. Edna Bechtel. who spent her entire life in Thornapple Township, died in 2003 at age 92. She was the youngest of six chil­ dren born to Allan and Ada (Schiefla) Bechtel and the only surviving sibling when she wrote, in 1995, about life on her family’s farm when she was a child. suspended from a tripod over the outdoor fire. It was boiled several hours, stirring constantly to keep it from scorching. This was done with a wide wooden paddle, drilled full ot holes, and fastened to a very long handle, allowing us to stand a distance from the fire. Before the cooking was completed, it was sweetened with lots of brown sugar and flavored with plenty of cinnamon. 'I his made a rich brown apple blitter, which was ready to be canned for use during the winter. Every farm had its own well because there was no running water. Many had windmills to pump water for the livestock. Our windmill was destroyed in the fire, so we pumped water by hand. Drinking water was put in a granite pail on the kitchen table, and we drank from a long-handled dipper. Without today’s modern tools, farm life was difficult, but very rewarding. Neighbors w'ere neighbors in those early days,exchanging work and helping each other with some of lhe labor requiring extra help, such as the slaughtering of animals, or haying or harvesting and always at threshing time. Sometimes, in cases of bad weather or sickness or other emergencies, they made up working bees to do u neighbor’s complete harvest. They also had bam-raisings. The women also w orked together, papering and painting^ach other’s houses and getting meals for a threshing crew, which was often about 20 men, and for other w orking bees. Without many hospitals available, babies were bom al home, and my mother often helped the doctor in delivering babies at various neighborhood homes. Each farm had; its own assortment of animals they raised. Wdxhad Severn I horses and their colts to work lhe fields. There were a few- tractors and little other farm machinery. Each farm had a herd of milk cows with their calves, a flock, of sheep, a drove of pigs and a flock of chickens and sometimes a flock of ducks or geese. Spring was an exciting time on the fann, when the baby farm animals were bom. It was fascinating to watch the young colts as they raced from one end of the meadow to the other with manes and tails flying, and then wheeling and galloping back to come to an abrupt halt al the barnyard gate. The calves, with their soft, brown eyes reminded one of young fawns as they w obbled along on spindly legs, slaying close to their mothers. 'Die white woolly lambs dotted the spring meadow like spring flowers, skipping and bleating with joy, bouncing stiff-legged and sideways, bumping into each other as they played on lhe green hillsides or beside the waters of the shallow creek that ran over the •stony creek bed. Often, the gentle call of the mother sheep brought back the lambs that had strayed loo far from the protection of the flock. Sometimes a mother sheep could not care for her lamb, so we were allowed to feed it with a bottle until it was able to graze. The pink-skinned baby pigs made quite a commotion as they grunted and squealed, pushing and trampling one another in their haste to be the first to reach the food. The baby chicks, those soft yellow balls of down, with tiny round eyes and shn I voices, added to the choir with the song of cheep, cheep” And the baby ducklings, sounding like a squeaky wheel, never seemed to gel filled up as they greedily shoveled up their food in their broad spoon bills There were always several baby kittens. cnA Bundles of fur. their liny voices becoming loud and shrill when left alone by Marriage licenses n . Huffman, Wayland and Brice Amber R0'e |.|ni| 1 Henry Kilgore, Caledonia and Zoe Jason »n '>rallifarie Vaughn. Delton and Johnny IbnsttnaM Ray Oslx>rneO|(house Middleville and ydi:" e'iJebolham, Middleville len Mart (j.geskt. Hastings and Melissa Lenny Jean Landon- Jjkcsi)ll , .,kc (Wl.ssa d Kyle Jan? Nashville Kayley Jo This photo from 1922 shows the Bechtel at maple syrup time. Pictured are (from left) Otto, Edna. Allan, Ada and Orley. Few other families in the area produced maple syrup each spring. the mother for a short time or if they became frightened. They were so much fun to hold and cuddle, and they quickly learned to purr when petted. There w ere always different species of wild birds with their variety of songs and some strange-looking nests. We loved to watch for lhe first baby birds to hatch out and see them feed and grow until they were able to leave lhe nest and learn to fly. The younger of my two brothers was the family adventurer, always looking for new ways to add a little spice to life. He had seen pictures of circus performers standing upright on lhe backs of horses as they cantered around the ring. It looked so easy. So, when one of the young colls came past the barnyard gate where he was sitting, he stepped from the gate to the back of lhe coll. The startled colt took off in high, leaving my brother behind.in lhe dust of lhe barnyard with no injuries except a badly bent pride, a shattered dream and with a little well-chosen advice from my parents ending his budding career with Ringling Brothers. Wire fencing was expensive, so many of the fences were split wooden rails. Not all of lhe fields were fenced, so the children were sent out to watch the cows while they grazed in order lo keep them from the neighbors* grain.cornfields and gardens. While watching the cows, we often made baskets of burrs picked from large burdock plants, or braided ropes from tall grass. After feeding an hour or two, the cows were turned into the fenced wood lot where there was pasture and several springs of waler. Here they fed until lime for the evening milking 7b be continued. State agencies team up to fill critical food and ag jobs The Michigan departments of Agriculture and Rural Development and Labor and Economic Opportunity are leading efforts to help fill critical food and agriculture jobs that are emerging due, in large part, lo lhe COVID19 pandemic. Part of the collaborative effort includes raising awareness of existing resources and sen’ices available to food and agriculture businesses, as well as promoting opportunities for job seekers. “Throughout this emergency, MDARD has been hosting regular calls with industry stakeholder groups, and one of lhe top issues raised has been the growing need for skilled workers,” MDARD Director Gary’ McDowell said. ‘‘Understanding how essential skilled workers are in lhe food and agriculture supply chain, we were quick to call upon the knowledgeable experts at LEO and Michigan Works to find effective solutions to a rapidly growing problem.” Those experts also have assisted MDARD in prioritizing and expediting food and agriculture opportunities through close collaboration. “With more than 800.000 active job seekers registered in Pure Michigan Talent Connect, we’re hoping more employers will lake advantage of this site to get matched up with the skilled talent they need lo fill in-demand jobs,” LEO, Employment and Training Director Stephanie Beckhorn said. “This collaborative approach with MDARD and employers allows us to deliver effective solutions that address our state’s critical food and agriculture talent needs.” To help fill these and other critical jobs, the stale is working with partners al Michigan Works regional service centers to help businesses attract, train and retain a skilled . workforce. , Serving more than 800.000 job seekers each year, Michigan Works helps prepare job seekers for Michigan’s high-demand occupations, such as food and agriculture. Services include job search assistance, employability workshops, access lo publicly funded programs and other support services. Employers across the state also turn to Michigan Works to identify skilled candidates. Through Michigan Works Business Solutions* agri-business staff help meet the growing needs of food and agriculture businesses and get people into these jobs. “The Michigan Works Business Solutions team works closely with employers across a variety of industry' sectors to better understand the specific needs of each industry.” Ben Damcrow, executive director of Michigan Works Southwest, said. “With staff who specialize in employment and re-employment services, Michigan Works is uniquely positioned lo provide talent solutions during this unprecedented time of demand for skilled workers in the food and agriculture industry.” Food and agriculture employers looking for assistance filling open positions should go to Mifalcnt.org. to complete the COVID-19 On-Demand Hiring Intake Form to add their postings of essential positions in the search results. Pure Michigan Talent Connect is free to use for employers and job seekers and has more than SOO.OOO active job seeker accounts and an average of 50 .(XX) phis daily job opportunities posted during lhe pandemic. For assistance with Pure Michigan Talent Connect, employers may email jobs.milalent. org'contaet-us. NOTICE CARLTON TOWNSHIP BUDGET HEARING Notice is hereby given that the proposed budget lor Carlton Township for th© 2020-2021 fiscal year will be submitted for consideration at a public hearing on Monday, Juno 8, 2020 at 6:30pm. THE PROPERTY TAX MILLAGE RATE PROPOSED TO BE LEVIED TO SUPPORT THE PROPOSED BUDGET WILL BE A SUBJECT OF THIS HEARING. The proposed budget is available for inspection at the Township Hall at 85 Welcome Rd. Hastings Ml 49058. Immediately following the public hearing a Township Board meeting will be held to consider adoption of the 2020-2021 fiscal year budget. Amanda Brown Carlton Township Clerk �Page 8 - Thursday. May 28. 2020 - The Hastings Bonney Hastings forms ‘back-to-school’ task force ■•***• » Savanah Kaechele Contributing Writer In response to obstacles caused COVID-19. Hastings Area School System* Superintendent Dan Remenap team with people from different sectors o community to ensure a safe return l classrooms. wiii This “Back to School Task Force; help establish plans and protocols for f: the students back in school, Rcmcnar■ • “Wc all believe the best place orrow k * to leam is in our physical but < > g their teachers and classmates. ‘ /health wc are working with local agenct health care, law enforcement and mental heaBh services to necessary slops to ,he heaKh> <itr,ierically selected committee memK each offering n different perspective on £. situation. will help to determine plans and protocols for students to return to school in a safe environment. So far. members include pediatrician Amy Beck J-Ad Graphics CEO Fred Jacobs, Bnrry-Ealon District Health Department coordinator Jennifer Casarez, Barry County Communitv Mental Health director Rich Thiemkey, board of education member Vai Slaughter. Hastings Police Chief Jeff Pratt, and elementary teacher Katie Sanchez. Two students and three parents also may be com­ mittee members. Remenap said he is waiting for their confinnation. Among the plans for students to return to their classrooms will be options for parents and students who may not feel comfortable returning to school when the time comes. However, students will be encouraged to return to our schools. VICTIM, continued from page ■What this really is n active. Six have died. conr Michipan- lhc reported 504 new emphasizing is testing a hl. cases - which was more than douour congregate care \ e 223 cases reported Tuesday. sj n a Presentation to Barry County commiscites targeting our sKiiiea f n,T'> Tuesday. Anne Barna, a spokeswoman nursing facilities Ifirst and !,c ,lca,tl1 department, said they have been providing resources to w 4^ a dc<d’nc in active cases over the last C.q °r and the trend is going downward. those facilities to do would say that the number of new cases mass testings of their ‘ ecreasing as well which is good. We're frOlng to see testing ramping up a little more residents and their Wc have the testing capacity we need so wc employees so that they can respond to outbreaks." Icalth Officer Colette Scrimger spoke lo can get a baseline o arry County commissioners during their where their facility is at meeting Tuesday and updated the board with COVID-19. on *hc fight against the spread of the disease. . Scrimger said the governor’s office is Colette Scrimger, unplcmcnting a “moonshot testing process RFDHD health officer working with thc Michigan State Police and National Guard and wc’rc one of thc districts working with them on this.” F-ventually, his initiative will cover thc the Michigan coronavirus hotline at 1-88Kor visit Michigan .gov< state but, for now, they arc going county by 535-6136 CoronavirtisTest to find an appropriate testing county, based on prioritization. Scrimger said she was notified on location, including a list of sites offering test­ Wednesday of lasl week that Eaton County is ing at no cost. Michiganders can locate testing sites by inputting their address or selecting next on thc list. “What this really is emphasizing is testing state, county and ZIP code. Individuals who experience symptoms of at our congregate care sites," she said, “target­ Tuesday. ing our skilled nursing facilities first and COVID-19, such as fever, cough or shortness “It’s very unusual to use the term: Net OPEB asset," jOe Verlin of Gabridge & providing resources to those facilities to do of breath, should contact their healthcare pro­ mass testings of their residents and their vider. 24/7 nurse hotline or telchcalth pro­ Company said. Verlin was zipping through a presentation employees so that they can get a baseline of gram provided by their insurance earner or employer to discuss whether to be evaluated on the county’s annual financial report for the where their facility is at with CO VID-19." l-ast Friday. Scrimger was involved in a for testing. year ending Dec. 31, 2019, when he tripped Each coronavirus test provider will deter­ over the term “net OPEB asset.” Il brought conference call with the National Guard to talk about which facilities in Eaton County mine if testing is appropriate based on symp­ him to a halt for a moment. toms and lest availability in their area. OPEB is the acronym for “other post-em­ would benefit from this testing. “We’ve been working with our facilities to Michiganders should call the COVID-19 test­ ployment benefits" and, for most govern­ prepare them for this and, this week, wc ing site before they go to leam about testing ments, lhe word “liability” comes after it. "What that means is when wc look at the expect that the supplies will be delivered to criteria, availability and hours. MDHHS COVID-19 lest prioritization cri­ total liability that the county has to cover its those facilities and then testing w ill be under­ taken.” teria is now as follows: retiree health care obligation to future retir­ Scrimger predicted that Barry County High Priority: ees, the county’s overfunded by $445,000," would be among the next counties on the list. Hospitalized patients with symptoms. Verlin told commissioners. “The idea is to have this move pretty rapidly Any health care worker, first responder, or “Ah, I. you’re, uh, Barry County is lhe only through the state ... so I imagine it will hap­ congregate care facility’ worker with symp­ county that has that, of the dozen counties that pen within the next week or two." toms. we work with, and of the 200 local units of The same process will be applied in Barry Residents in any congregate care facility, government wc work with, we don't have County “where we will work with our skilled including prisons and shelters, with symp­ anyone else that has net OPEB asset.” he nursing facilities to see if they’re interested in toms. explained. "You guys are in fantastic position participating in this testing and then we’ll Priority: in terms of covering your retiree health care coordinate with National Guard to make it Persons with symptoms of potential obligation. You actually have more assets than happen.” COVID-19 infection, including: Shortness of the liability. ...You guys arc well ahead of She said she expects supplies will be deliv­ breath, muscle pain, new loss of taste or where Treasury expects local units to be. ered to the facilities that are being targeted for smell, vomiting or diarrhea, sore throat. "Certainly a sign of prudent financial man­ testing and. from there, the plan is to move Asymptomatic patients in preparation for sur­ agement." rapidly. gical procedures, as deemed necessary by the Prudent was a word he repeated several Scrimger s report came in concert with an treating clinician. times during the presentation lo characterize announcement by the Michigan Department Asymptomatic people with known expo­ the county’s financial practices. of Health and Human Services that testing sure to a person with COV1D-J9 or exposure Verlin noted "no funds with negative bal­ ( criteria for COVID-19 is being expanded to to a person with COVID-19 symptoms ances" and "very health financial perfor­ । Asymptomatic.people living or working in mance" during 2011 "You guys are doing a provide accessio additional residents yvho do not have symptoms but are ill risk. ‘ a congregate care' facility or other high-risk very good job." Thc new criteria released by the MDHHS setting (such as nursing home, jail, prison, The financial report also look a look at how includes asymptomatic patients who are pre­ homeless shelter, assisted living facility, etc.) the county spent federal funds "to make sure paring for surgery if testing is deemed neces­ that: had a confirmed case among residents or all the I’s are dotted andT’s are crossed. This sary by the treating health professional. workers; is located in a region of medium risk is a really quick snapshot of federal funds.," It also includes asymptomatic people who or higher, or is receiving patients from an area he said. “Not only did we have a unmodified, have known exposure to someone who has of medium risk or higher. clean report ...Internalcontrols are suitably COVID-19 or symptoms, or who work in a Asymptomatic people who work in a pro­ designed. ...Kudos to all those involved. profession that puts them at high risk of expo­ fession that puls them al high risk of expo­ “A lot of compliance goes into spending sure due to close contact with lhe public, such sure, including: repealed close contact of those dollars." as denial technicians, or to COVID-19 out­ prolonged duration with lhe public, working The county showed unrestricted net assets breaks in certain industries like at food pro­ in a high-risk profession where clusters of of $92 million in 2019, which reflected an cessing facilities. infections have been identified (such as increase of $1.87 million, Verlin said. Thc new testing criteria also emphasizes migrant workers, food processing facilities, “Certainly, that’s a very good sign that the need to expand options for people without etc.), working in-person during a period of answers the question, ‘Is the county better off symptoms who live in communities where strict social distancing or, in areas with some on Dec 31,2019. than it was in 2018?’ there has been inequitable access to testing, as sectors re-opening, having worked in-person "The answer to that question is yes. by w'cll as the need to increase the rale of people during thc period of strict social distancing. $1.87 million." tested per day in these areas. For example, Persons identified by clinicians or public Cash in exceeded cash out by $427,000 this includes areas with higher proportions of health officials who can be tested for public during the 12 months ending Dec. 31,2019, racial/ethnic minorities or rural communities. health monitoring research purposes. he said. “As we reopen Michigan’s economy, People without symptoms who live in com­ The county’s general fund showed a expanded testing is critically important so that munities where there has been inequitable $517,000 increase in 2019. we can track any spread of COVID-19 in access to testing and a need to increase lhe County operations were running on a 13.4 regions or local communities.” Dr. Joneigh rate of people tested per day - such as areas percent reserve, which would cover nearly two months in operating costs. "You guys are Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief with higher proportion of racial/ethnic minori­ deputy for health, said. ties, rural communities. being prudent ... right where you think you Over the last week, the slate averaged Permissible: need lo be. aboul 14.000 diagnostic COV1D-I9 tests per Persons without symptoms who are priori­ “We certainly like to see cash and cash equivalents increasing over time, that was the day. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer set a goal of tized by local health departments or clini­ reaching 15.000 diagnostic tests per day in the cians, for any reason. case during 2019. " near term and 30,000 per day in lhe weeks to Asymptomatic people living or working in County Administrator Michael Brown said come. a congregate care facility or other high-risk after the presentation that he gels to be at the MDHHS is encouraging anyone who meets setting (such as a nursing home, jail, prison, forefront of the county’s good financial review, but it is the county staff and depart­ the testing criteria to gel tested. Free testing is homeless shelter, assisted living facility) in widely available, including at federally quali­ any region. ment heads who made it possible. Asymptomatic people leaving their home “They’re really the folks who determine fied health centers and major retail pharma­ cies. for work. whether wc have a clean audit or not" he Anyone who wishes to be tested may call said. Chairwoman Heather Wing , ccho^ Brown’s remarks. “It’s nice to see we re not in the financial trouble other counties arc in,” she said, adding. “It’s kind of n,cc to sec we’re worth $2.2 billion." . , Commissioners voted to unanimously approve the county’s Annual Financial Report for the year ending Dec. 31.2019. In other action, they: ■ Adopted a COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plan that is intended to> provide guidance for both county ;ind C0Urt °ffices Services / or Sale and staff. BUYING ALL HARD­ CARRON SPORT AIR • Approved claims totaling WOODS: Walnut. White Hockey Table. $300.00 OBO. • Canceled the June 2 Comnu,,w of thc fJak, Tulip Poplar. Call tor Phone 269-908-ltv54._______ Whole meeting. pricing. Will buy single Wal­ KASSON 10FT OAK Pool • Agreed that the next regular *’oa.rd1 mccl’ nut trees. Insured, liability & Table, excellent condition. mg will take place at 9 a.m- Julie 9 VK1 Z°Oln' Workman's comp. Fetterley $1,000.00 or OBO. 269-908­ lagging. (269)818-7793. 1654 BELLS CONSTRUCTION­ 'S years experience. Dry wall, Painting, tile, flooring, trim, GET EASY CASH with nome improvements, power extra household goods and Washing, 2b9-32t) 389Q.____ tools! Call (269) 945-955-1 to sell your unwanted stuff matt endsley, fabri­ with <t classified ad in this cation and repair, custom paper. trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Gill 2o9-804-75U6. return to school in or1, Ren*nap sa,d Consequently. a god ,s l.° casurc that appropriate steps ire ,akcn f°r a ^fc return, he said . ... . “My hope is lha( hi corunn^ will be able to formulate a ' „vu>school plan that will put concerns case for Par^n,l5.and students alike. so pcoole morC ,y. send their students to Has,inRS schoo,s’ Remenap said. “\Ve lflve our kids’ sa,ely and health very seriously but *c flls0 kn,ow !hal our kids are best served in per*00 ra,her ,han virtually. We want to take common-sense steps to make sure we are l,p and njnning safely." “Ultimately, it js about reducing fears and getting our kids“back." he added. “We miss them." The first committee meeting is scheduled at 10 a.m. Wednesday June 3, in the Hastings Middle School commons area- County finances looked so good in 2019, it’s tough to put into words Pierce B ,m- County’s financial picture was so good h^ 2019. the certified public accountant stumbled over a rare phrase Tuesday. “The net OPEB asset increased," the CP,X stammered as he told county commissioners during their electronic meeting via Zoom and Goddard roads with a lodge hall upstairs Elaine Garlock A parade at 6:30 pan. Friday around the was built with the same size blocks as the Nye local fairgrounds will honor the graduating building. Emerson Street platted about 1900 seniors of Lakewood High School. Signs and was named for Mr. Morrow'. The late Edrie noisemakers are welcome. The grassy area in McCartney was a great-aunt of Fr. Morrow. The structure on Meyer Drive at M-50 front of the high school building on M-50 has many posters mounted with metal stakes in the now has siding so the appearance is changing ground, each bearing the photo of a graduate. rapidly. Last week's Reminder had a story' about >;fcr. Dennis Morrow, pastor of SS. Peter hnd Paul Parish in Grand Rapids, died last the Memorial Day preparations made by two week. From 1984 to 1986, he was pastor of ladies, members of the Daughters of Union St'. Edward parish in Lake Odessa. This parish Veterans at Sunfield. The public was invited assignment was unusual for him because to go to the Sunfield Cemetery on St. Joe it was lhe home of his ancestors. His great Highway south of Sunfield near the vacant grandfather was Emerson Morrow, who was Church of the Brethren. The self-guided tour d Contractor. Mr. Morrow in the late 1800s . wax well worth the trip and is still available bough a block-making machine. He used it for viewing. The ladies’ project has a series fbt* some of his construction projects, which of attractive printed signs, lining lhe drives. included the building now used as the Family Most of the signs have quotes from prominent Medical Center but formerly the Bradee and historic figures appropriate to the occasion. Bradens’ drug store. Before that it was the site The route takes one past lhe focal center of the Alton Nye drug store with the IOOF and of the cemetery with benches and statuary Rebekah hall on the second story. In fact, the figures with large wreath on a plaza where lodge owned the upper half. In later years when services are usually held in a normal year. One the Odd Fellow roof leaked, lhe drug store had visitor was seen Monday carrying his trumpet, water damage to its stock of wallpaper store probably so he could plan Taps al 3 p.m. in in the basement. The drug store was built sync with countless other buglers around lhe with large blocks. Also the two-story store in nation. Sebewa Township on the comer of Clarksville Notice of Drainage Board Meeting to Hear Objections to the Abandonment of an Intercounty Drain SADDLER INTERCOUNTY DRAIN (Barry and Allegan Counties) DATE: June 10, 2020 TIME: 1:30 p.m. LOCATION: By mobile phone at +1-312-626-6799, 2819105661# US (Chicago) or +1-929-205-6099 ,2819105661# US (New York) or via Zoom meeting at website https://darkhil|,?Oom.us/i72819105661?DW<j=QkqwL3WMkF1Y3REMFkvT3F6dnp3dz09 Password: 9768523 The Saddler Intercounty Drain Drainage Board will meet at the above date, time and location to hear objections to the petition dated August 6. 2019, ’ requesting to abandon and vacate the Saddler Intercounty Drain pursuant to Chapter 17 of Public Act 40 of 1956, as amended. Proceedings conducted at this public meeting will be subject to the provisions of the Michigan Open Meetings Act and in conformance with Executive Direc­ tive 2020-2 and Executive Order 2020-75. Written comments may be submit­ ted prior to the meeting, or additional information may be obtained from the following offices: Jim Dull Barry County Drain Commissioner 220 W. State St. Hastings, Michigan 269-945-1385 Denise Medemar Allegan County Drain Commissioner 113 Chestnut St. Allegan, Michigan 269-673-0440 Persons with disabilities needing accommodations for effective participation in the meeting should contact the Drain Commissioner of their County at the number listed above or through the Michigan Relay Center at 7-1-1 (TDD) at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting to request mobility, visual, hearing or other assistance. 14JMUJ Brady Harrington, Deputy For Gary McDowell, Director Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Call 269-945-3554 for Hastings Bannera® �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. May 28. 2020 — Pap* 9 SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS /^Doctor Universe Specia^t answers questions about paymel1*s, coverage, dependents and more Flight of the bee But there’s another special thing about bee flight. Like birds, bees direct their wings Christopher, Kansas through signals from their brains. When thc brain sends instructions to thc flight mus­ cles, the wings move. Dear Christopher, For most birds, one brain signal equals Bees fly like a blur, with wings moving too fast to see. Often, you hear them before one wing flap. you see them. “When you think of a bird, it sends an They’re smalt, but their sound is unmis­ electrical signal to the muscle and it says, takable. Bees hover with a telltale buzz. And ‘Boom, contract,’” Sheppard said. that buzz offers a big clue. It comes from The muscle lightens and relaxes, flapping very fast vibrations — the secret to bees* lhe wing. flight. But bees’ wings work differently. They That’s what I learned from Steve rely on something called resonance frequen­ Sheppard, an entomologist at Washington cy, or fast vibrations, started by one initial State University who studies bees. movement. Their brains don’t send signals l>ook closely at a bee. and you’ll see their for every single rotation. Instead, their bodies have three major parts: A head, a wings beat by vibrating. middle bundle, and a large, striped rear. That “They just send a signal every now and middle part is called the thorax, home to all then, and that’s enough to keep thc muscle six legs and four wings. It’s also lhe anchor bouncing,” Sheppard said. for lhe bee’s movement. Using this combination of rotation and Bees’ wings attach lo muscles in the tho­ vibration, bees can move their wings very rax. They work sort of like spoons inside a fast with each brain signal. That’s what shoebox, Sheppard said. helps them beat their wings at such incredi­ “Think of a shoebox with the lid slightly ble speed. smaller than the box.” Sheppard said. “Then Bees aren’t the only insects that use this you have the wings — let’s say they’re like method. Flies and beetles fly like this, too. wooden spoons slicking out through that Even hummingbirds beat their wings with gap. So. you can imagine that if thc lid goes vibration — an unusual style fora bird. up and down, then lhe wings go up and The next time you meet a bee. you proba­ down.” bly won’t see its wings beating within thc Bees’ wings work similarly. They’re blur. But you’ll know’ there’s a lot going on hinged to the thorax. When thc bee moves beneath its buzz. its ihorax up and down, its wings move, loo. But lhe wings don’l exactly flap up and Dr. Universe down. They actually twist in a special fig­ ure-8 pattern. Combining short, choppy Du you have a question or know of a rotations with incredible speed, bees' wings youngster who does? Ask Dr. Universe. can beat more than 200 times each second. Send an email to Washington State When bees chum their wings like this, University's resident scientist and writer at they spin the air around them. Twisting Dr.Universe@ wsu.edu or visit her website, wings create a vortex, a sort of small torna­ askdruniverse.com. With help from my do. Rotating the air around them, bees can friends at Washington State University, lift their body up, down, forward, and back­ we’re investigating tough and smart ques­ ward. They can even can hover in mid-air. tions from curious kids around the world. Universe: How can bees fly? LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL DISTRICT 5TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY PROBATE ORDER FOR SERVICE BY • PUBUCAT1ON/POSTING AND NOTICE OF ACTION CASE NO. 20-253-CH • COURTADDRESS Courthouse. 220 W. State St.. Hastings,>, Ml 49058 • COURT TELEPHONE . (269) 945-1286 Plaintiff Ryan Matthew Bultman and Wiiliam David Boekestein 852 137th Avenue Wayland, Ml 49348 Plaintiffs Attorney James R. Wierenga (P48946) David, Wierenga & Lauka, PC ’ 99 Monroe Ave., N.W.. Suite 1210 Grand Rapids, Ml 49503 (616)454-3883 v Defendant(s) Unknown Heirs. Devisees, or Assignees of Ann J. Fisher. Unknown Heirs, Devisees of Assignees ot Robert J. Fisher, and Beneficiaries of the Revocable Living Trust Agreement for Ann J. Fisher U/A/D 9-9­ 04 TO: IT IS ORDERED: . 1. You are being sued in this court by the pla.ntiff ■ to quiet ttle to property located in Barry Township, Barry County. Michigan. EXH1BJLA Commencing at a point on the Easterly line of land convoyed in deed recorded in Uber 110 of Deeds page 432. in the office of the Register of Deeds' for Barry County. Michigan, ono hundred twenty-five and five-tenths (125.5) feet North, twenty-eight (28) degrees West from the Southeast corner of said parcel, thence North Twenty-eight (28) degrees West on the East Line of said parcel. Sixty-four (64) feet; thence south sixty-ono (61 degrees West parallel lo the Southerly line of Plat of Gwin’s Grove, about one hundred (100) feet to a point eight (8) feel East of the Westerly ine of said parcel, thence South twenty-eight (28) and onehalf (28 1/2) degrees East, 64 feet.lhence North sixty-one degrees East about one hundred (100 • feet to the place of beginning, being lots 4 and a ’ of an unrecorded subdivision: granting a so a ngh of way for Ingress and egress over a stripi oif Ian eight (8i feet wide adjoining the above dc**cr'p 1 on the Westerly side and extending from the public highway to lo? twelve (12) of Gwins Grove and . thence continuing Northwesterly a right *y • (B) feet wide to tne lake. -ih^Hinn 1. You must lite your answer Penn,tied by law .n this court at the ecu 'I ■ «>o;e on or before 28 days after Nnl ce -W™®" • newspape- If you lu.l to do son, a de fault . "Wy be entered against you lor the relief demanded I ' the comp!amt filed in this case. ■ consftcuuve weeks, and proof of publication be Med In this court . Date Ap'tl 22, 2020 •Judge Vicky Aispaugh P42572 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING RLE NO. 20-28521-NO In the matter of Dyllan Humble. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS including: whose address(es) is/are unknown and whose interest in the matter may bo barred or affected by the following: TAKE NOTICE: A hearing will be held on 06/24/2020 at 2:30 p.m. at 206 W. Court St.. #302, Hastings, Ml 49058 before Judge Hon. William M. Doherty P41960 for the following purpose: Petition for a Minor Name change for Dyllan James Humble to be changed to Dyllan James Boyer. Melissa Boyer 8513 E. State Road Nashville, Ml 49073 (616)902-3309 141694 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Trust In the Matter of Robert W. Getty. Date of birth1/6/38. TO ALL CREDITORS: Trust: Robert W. Getty & Lila J. Getty Trust, 12/15/2000. NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Robert W. Getty, died 4/27/2020 leaving the above trust in full force and effect. Creditors of the decedent or against the trust are notified that all claims against the decedent or trust will be forever barred unless presented to Amanda M. Bowerman, Trustee(s), within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 5/20/20 Amanda M. Bowerman 10204 Shaw Lake Rd . Middleville, Ml 49333 141615 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Trust Trust: The Shirley H. Stoneburner Living Trust u/a/d 10-5-2000. ’ TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Shirley H. Stonebumer, who lived at 9451 Kingsbury Rj Delton, Ml 49046. died 04/25/2020. Creditors of lhe decedent are notified that all claims against the trust will be forever barred unless presented to thc Trustee, James O. Stonebumer within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Blaque W. Hough P-47697 300 South State St. Ste. 11 Zeeland, Ml 49464 (616)212-9336 James O. Stoneburner 1807 Winsted Blvd. Ann Arbor, Ml 48103 (734) 883-9693 Medicare P"*^, p# my income.rdaUd Why can t I . lJrnmmt directlv . monthly Plan providerY' /e'n'aHw dc^uct ><w income­ , By, ,nthly:>llilis""t" 1"'n"un"'’»n>our *f ,he «»ount you n,oreX'he‘'l’uUn'Ofy,,ur',a>'m™'. owe'sn ,nonlhly Payments, you will or y°u don u j|| from another federal agency £e‘h SXcen" L for Medicare & Medicaid lUch* or the Railm011 Retirement Board. IW?!"’’1 ^lcs for “''Bheri 03 • Beneficial65 °r,an *dca ''‘hat you canexpect to pay »' ^,als’-'curity.gov/pubs. , nor ready n"rc, but / wml lo apply for my Medi^ i m er"«ecan I The easiest and n»s« convenient way is lo apply online. Use our on me application to sien up for Medicare- Il takes less than 10 minutes. In most cases, once your application is submitted electronically, you’re done. There are no forms to sign, and usually no documentation is re4ulr™- s°cial Security will process your application and contact you if we need more information. You’ll receive your Medicare card in the mail. There’s no need to drive to a local Social Security office or wail for an appointment with a Social Security representative. Gel started today at socialsecuriiy.gov/benefils/medicare. I’ve been receiving Supplemental Security Incomefor a few years and recently went back to work. My boss wants me to work full time and / feel like I can do the job. but I’m concerned about losing my Medicaid coverage. If my SSI payments stop due to my earnings, can I still keep my Medicaid? In most cases, Medicaid coverage will continue even if your earned income is too high to receive an SSI payment. In order to qualify for this coverage, you must: • Be blind or have a disability. • Meet all the SSI eligibility requirements, except for the amount of your earnings. • Be eligible to receive a regular SSI cash payment for al least one month before you became eligible under Section 1619 of the Social Security Act. • Have been eligible for Medicaid coverage iq .thc monOi before yop .became eligible under Section 1619. • Need continued Medicaid in order to work. • Have earnings that would not replace the value of your. SSI cash benefits, your Medicaid attendant care you receive that would be lost tine to your earnings, 1 he amount you may earn and still receive Medicaid varies from state to slate. Call 800­ 772-1213 (TTY 800-325-0778) for more information. I’m gathering everything I’ll need to file my taxes this month. Da I have to pay’ taxes on Social Security benefits? Also, where can I get My brother had an accident at work last a replacement 1099? Some people who get Social Security year and is now receiving Social Security disability benefits. His wife and son also must pay federal income (axes on their receive benefits. Before his accident, he benefits. Still, no one pays taxes on more than helped support another daughter by a woman 85 percent of their Social Security benefits. he never married. Is the second child entitled You must pay taxes on some portion of your benefits if you file an individual federal to benefits? The child may qualify for Social Security tax return and your income exceeds $25 XXX). benefits even though your brother wasn’t If you file a joint return, you must pay taxes if married to thc second child’s mother. The you and vour spouse have combined income child’s caretaker should file an application on of more than S32.000. If you are married and her behalf. For more information, visit file a separate return, you probably will have to pay taxes on your benefits. You can read socialsecurity.gov. more about lax preparation in relation to Social Security at socialsecurity.gov/planners/ What are compassionate allowances? Compassionate allowances arc Social taxes.htm. Social Security benefits include Security’s way of quickly identifying severe monthly retirement, survivors and disability diseases and other medical conditions that benefits. They don't include Supplemental qualify a person for disability benefits without Security Income payments, which are not wailing a long time. Compassionate taxable. allowances permit Social Security to target You also can get a replacement 1099 or lhe most obviously disabled individuals for 1042S when you open your own personal my allowances and faster payment of benefiLs Social Security account at socialsecurity.gov/ based on objective medical information that my account. wc can obtain quickly. Compassionate allowances are not separate from lhe Social / noticed that my date of birth in Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security's records is wrong. How do I get that Security Income programs. Find out more at corrected? socialsecurity.gov/compassionateallowances. To change the date of birth shown on our records, lake the following steps: My sister told me that she receives half of • Complete an Application for A her spouse’s benefit. Why am I not eligible for Social Security Card (Form SS-5). benefits from my spouse? • Show us documents proving US. If your spouse is eligible for Social citizenship (if you have not previously Security benefits, you could be eligible for established your citizenship with us), your one-half of your spouse’ benefit al your full age and your identity. retirement age. However, if you worked and • Then take (or mail) your completed are eligible for Social Security benefits on application and documents to your local your own record, your own benefit may be Social Security office. higher than what you could be eligible for on Note that all documents must be cither your spouse’s record. If you have questions originals or copies certified by the issuing regarding your eligibility for benefits, call agency. We cannot accept photocopies or 800-772-1213 (TTY 800-325-0778) between notarized copies of documents. For details on 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. lhe documents, visit socialsecurity.gov/ ss5doc. I’m reaching my full retirement age and thinking about retiring early next year. When Vonda I ’anTil is the public affairsspecialist is the best time of year to apply for Social for Wfcvr Michigan. You may write to her do Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp Security benefits? You may apply as early as four months NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to before you want your monthly benefits to vonda .vantil@ ssa .gov. begin. To apply, just go to socialsecuriiy.gov/ T^ank You This is a note to thc kind couple who helped me . after I’d taken a spill at Mount Calvary Cemetery Friday. Without knowing your names, I cannot 3- * send a written note. So, I’m hoping you'll read this and will know how much I appreciate your kindness.You were so nice to me and so helpful. I can't thank you enough Our world needs more kind strangers like you. -Sliaron, MICHAEL KINNEY PLUMBING Licensed Master Plumber Licensed Journeyman Plumber New construction, remodel, repair, drain cleaning. BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEATERS Same Day Installation Office (269) 948-2248 Mobile (269) 838-5112 CITY OF HASTINGS CITY OF HASTINGS request for BIDS REQUEST FOR BIDS Custodial and Maintenance Services for Hastings City Hall Mowing and Maintenance Services for Hastings City Owned Property The City of Hastings is soliciting bids for the provision of Custodial and Maintenance Services for Hastings City Hall. The RFP and specifications are available from Hastings City Hall. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City's best interest, price and other factors considered. Bids will be received at Hastings City Hall, 201 East State Street. Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 4:00 PM, on Thursday, June 11, 2020 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Bids will bo clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package - “SEALED BID CITY HALL MAINTENANCE CONTRACT”. Matt Gergen Director of Public Services 141614 apply toretire. Applying online for retirement benefits from the convenience of your home or office is secure and can take as little as 15 minutes. The City of Hastings is soliciting bids for the provi­ sion of Mowing and Maintenance Services for vari­ ous City owned properties. The RFP and specifica­ tions are available from Hastings City Hall. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price and other factors considered. Bids will be received at Hastings City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 4:00 PM, on Thursday, June 11. 2020 at which time thoy will be opened and publicly read aloud. Bids will be clearly marked on lhe outside of the submittal package - -SEALED BID CITY MOWING AND MAINTENANCE CONTRACT. Matt Gergen Director of Public Services Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads �Bondwork moving forward atDelton Kellogg Construction of the new artificial turf field is well underway at Delton Kellogg, Luke Froncheck Staff Writer The easing of statewide restrictions over movement and some occupations came just in time for lhe Delton Kellogg School District. Superintendent Kyle Corlett said multiple bond projects were set to begin in late spring, and because of the restrictions, there was some doubt over whether lhe project could remain on schedule. But because construction workers are back to work, Corlett said lhe district’s bond work is ahead of schedule. The old tennis courts, formerly at thc center of the school campus, have already been removed. New batting cages will be installed there for the school’s baseball and softball teams, he said. The construction of the new turf field and the demolition of the old wood shop building are currently underway. Construction work is being handled by 'lite Christman Company of Grand Rapids. "h’s difficult to say what the total amount is for each project, because some of the proj■ v The following are the bids collected by l he Christman Company for various bond projects being done at Delton Kellogg: • Demolition. $35,100. Pitsch Companies of Grand Rapids. - Earthwork and site utilities. $977,840. Hoffman Brothers Inc. of Battle Creek. - Site concrete, $195,443. VanLaan Concrete Construction hie. of Dutton. - Asphalt paving. $209500, Lakeland Asphalt Corporation of Battle Creek. Fencing, $34307, Justice Fence Company of Battle Creek. Turf field. $729300, Lounsbury Excavating Inc. of Paw Paw. - Roofing. $398590, J&.L Roofing Company of Grand Rapids. - General trades/carpentry. $208,000. BCI Construction LLC of Grand Rapids. - Flooring, $38525, Eastpointe Interiors Inc. of Grand Rapids. - Painting, S 10.710, H&H Painting Inc. of Kalamazoo. - Mechanical and plumbing systems.$25,187, Advantage Mechanical-Refrigeration Inc. of Comstock Park. - Electrical. $79,000, Circuit Electric Inc. of Byron Center. .z— Two excavators sit outside the old wood shop preparing for its demolition. eels overlap,” Corlett said. “For example, excavating includes excavating the football field and the parking lots." Bond work will extend beyond 2020. Projects happening this summer include re-rooting half of the middle school, remodel­ ing of high school bathrooms, repaving sever- al parking lots to improve traffic flow, the installation of an artificial turf football field, improving thc baseball and softball fields, purchasing new band instruments, fixing the stage floor in the high school auditorium, and demolition of the old wood shop to create a play area on pavement for rainy days. Evan Murph}/ sogras with feta ©armll University Brett Bremer Sports Editor Hastings senior Evan Murphy bought into what John Carroll University in Cleveland. Ohio, had for him and then went to work sell­ ing himself to lhe Blue Streaks’ football pro­ gram. Murphy signed his National Letter of Intent in April to join the John Carroll football pro­ gram next season. The Blue Streaks are an NCAA Division III program, which last won an Ohio Athletic Conference championship in 2016. “A lot of it had to do with their academics." Murphy said of his choice. "I know 1 want lo go to school for marketing and supply chain management, and they have a whole sector of lheir college devoted towards that "Then there was lhe football side of things. I went on a couple football visits and talked lo some of their players and coaches, and I felt like I fit in very well in that atmosphere with them. I am friends with a couple of the players already and they are treating me like I am already part of lhe family, which is awe­ some." He took an official visit last spring, and has been on campus at least four times over the years. John Canoil has quite thc football family making it no surprise that the son of a coach, Hastings varsity head coach James Murphy, would feel w'elcome in the football prognun. Evan The Blue Streaks play home games in Don Shula Stadium named after lhe 1951 graduate of John Carroll who w ent on to lead the NFL’s the offensive line in 21)19, and earned the Miami Dolphins to two Super Bowl program’s Iron Saxon Award for being a pos­ Championships as head coach. Among the 20 itive role model in and out of the competitive or so Blue Streaks currently working in the arena while showing grit, a high football IQ NFL are Baltimore Ravens’ offensive coordi­ and being intentionally inclusive with team­ nator Greg Roman and New England Patriots’ mates. offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. Evan played tw o seasons of varsity basket­ Evan has been doing weekly Zoom meet­ ball at Hastings and was as member of the ings with lhe Blue Streaks’ offensive crxmli- varsity track and field team as a freshman and nator and offensive line coach for at least two a part of the JV baseball leam as a sophomore months, working on learning the in’s and before being slowed for a couple springs by out’s of the playbook. He is expecting to play knee surgery. light end at John Carroll, one of a handful of He has been doing the workouts front his positions he played along the offensive and John Carroll coaches, and keeping in shape by defensive fronts during his three varsity sea­ doing yard work and other manual labor sons with the Saxon football program. He said Evan expects that thc family gutting its out­ tight end turned into his favorite position. It is door chores done with the extra free time this one where he especially excelled as a blocker spring could lead to more time for camping in thc Saxons’ Wing-1’ offense. "I had a 99 percent overall blocking effi­ ciency last football season," Evan said. "1 feel like my ability to work to linebacker is prob­ ably my biggest strength.” "(The Blue Streaks) run some passes to lhe tight end. h is a whole different game lhan what 1 have ever played, which is something 1 am really excited about, as well ns nervous Taylor Owens about," he added. "I’hey play a whole differ­ Staff Writer ent offense and in their passing game the light A head on collision al 5:1J a.m. May 22 in end secs a lot of action. It is also a pretty fast­ Nashville hospitalized lhe drivers of boih paced run game as well.” vehicles. Evan was named honorable mention all­ A 20-year-old Luke Odessa man was driv­ state in Division 4 by thc Michigan High Schcx)! Football Coaches Association after his ing his pickup truck north on Durkee Street near Cosgrove Suecl, when his vchiuRsenior season. He is a three-time all-confer­ crossed the centerline and struck another ence honoree in lhe Interstate 8 Athletic truck. Lhe driver told sheriff's deputies he had Conference, was voted the Saxons’ MVP on Hastings High School senior Evan Murphy is joined by (clockwise from top left) his lather James Murphy, sister Brenagan Murphy and mother Amy Murphy as he signs his National Letter of Intent to join the John Carroll University Football program next, season. Murphy and things this summer. Family is pan of what drew Evan to John Carroll as well as the chance to experience living in a major metropoliian area. His moth­ er. Amy Murphy, is front nearby Chagrin Falls which is about a 20 minute drive east ot cam­ pus. The Hastings varsity football team was 1-8 Evan’s sophomore season, and then went 4-5 each of the past two seasons while closing both those years with three-game winning streaks. Chemistry that develop**1 lh* Vi.‘rS1’ ty Saxons Evan’s senior fall «•* *>"e101 biggest hieh school highlights. W"11 lhat Chemistry came improved commumcauon on lhe field. lie’ll missgettinghj’Pe*1 "1 Saxon teammales in the locker room with the Drivers hospitalized after head-on collision not slept since 10 a.m. U* Prc ami might have I.,lien asleepiIk ' . .. Bo-hhemtdthe d serofthc^•0"*1'.nl'■•k• a P N^tnie W* «ere pmned inside their vehicles . i ■‘belakeOd3; nunsvastakcnbymnlm lame to an area hospital-“ nrnn ssas flown to the ho4’iul.. .... 1CCord. 1 here were no s;.,n, of itito‘'li,n's’ ‘"S’- **’ the police report. music blaring before home games, and post- kind of a graduation this summer, with some* game suppers at Applebee’s. kind of even now planned for July 23. * llie Saxons are still hoping to get in some Lakewood parade to honor graduating seniors Friday Luke Froncheck Staff Writer I akewood High School’s graduating seniors will be honored with a parade at 6:30 p.m. Friday, May 29. in downtown Lake Odessa. The parade, entitled thc "I-akewood Class of 2020 Car Parade," will begin al the Lake Odessa f airgrounds and conclude al the inter­ section of main street and M-50. Lineup will begin at 5:30 pan. Seniors are asked to wear their caps and gowns and decorate lheir vehicles. 1b join lhe parade, participants should enter the fairgrounds from the Jordan Lake Road entrance on lhe east side, give the .student s name to a volunteer al lhe booth and receive instructions, flower, name board and goodie bag. i’he three valedictorians are set to lead lhe proceedings and should arrive early fur that reason. lhe salutatorian will follow them. After those four students, the order of seniors ill be random. Senior, their parents or other adults may dtivc vehicle*. II a pickup truck is being driven, no more than two seniors will be allowed in the bed of the truck. l he students also must be sealed once the parade begins. "This is a requirement for the Lake Odessa Police Department and win entorce<J.. organizers said in a press release Lakewood teachers also will be prescn, f the celebration. lhey will be gathered in thc VIP sectton tn from of the Lake Odessa hbrary. Teachers who would like to sit during the parade are asked to bring their own chairs 1 hen also will be a custom geofilter for the social medta app Snapchat for seniors to use dun ng the parade. USL , °‘,h" !">cidl mse #lakewood-O.Opaude, organizers said. "We have son. generous community members who will K. photographing and videoing this evc„ , av"hbk<’h‘S Wi‘h when h"s' som'td portions ‘dong'lhc a"d dunng thc proceedings. Wearing a „ask door. ,s recotmitendetl, hut ltol After the parade, participants ... aged to patronize eateries in town' Ollr' The parade will take place reexr.ii weather. ’ of �TAPRC following food to share sporting goods Jamie Holmes from the TAPRC passes out jump ropes and bat and ball sets to Alisa Otto and children Finley, Graeme and Archer in their minivan Tuesday at Thornapple Kellogg Middle School, part of the organization’s work to help families get active and stay active this summer. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Tax & Consulting, Middleville Family Sports Editor Practice, Gun Lake Community Church, B2 The need for families to find activities for Outlet Stores, Bradford White, Lakeland youth only increases this week as the last of Asphalt. Thomapple Finance Center, Lox lhe distance learning packets are returned to Hair Salon, Middleville Pharmacy Care, high­ point Community Bank, TCS Plumbing, the Thomapple Kellogg Schools. Thc Thomapple Area Parks and Recreation Edward Jones, the United Way, TK Schools, Commission (TAPRC), with the help of a Thomapple Township and the Village of number of area businesses and sponsors, is Middleville all contributed to the effort. Many working to help fill the void. Members of thc told the TAPRC to keep lhe the sponsorship TAPRC were on hand with a trailers full of money lhey’d donated for the summer ball new wiffle bat and ball sets, jump ropes and seasons. “There were also parents who contributed rubber playground/four-square balls with sidewalk chalk to distribute to families as they lheir registration fees in leu of a refund for the passed through the drive-through line to pick season,” Getty said. “We live in an amazingly up lheir weekly meals at Thomapple Kellogg generous community.” Some of those funds went to the equipment Middle School Tuesday afternoon. ' “Our. mission is to help families ’Get distribution. The TAPRC is still working to Active-~and Stay Active’ white at home,’’ maintain ballfields so they’ll be ready for use I'APRC program^ director Catherine Getty whenever possible, and maintaining its . . . atfiid.' AVe wish wc oculd all-bc together at the required insurance. . ... Families that picked up wiffle ball sets can ball field•; this summer, but until then we hope use them to try some of the drills being posted tyiis helps families have a little fun together.’’ • Fey ton Morgan rolled through the line with to the TAPRC Facebook page. Members of her mother Amber Morgan and selected a the back-to-back OK Gold Conference cham­ wiitje hqll and bat set. Peyton is a dancer and pion Thomapple Kellogg varsity softball cheerlcader.-bui thought her brother Brian leam, including juniors Mo Sprague and Verburg would like a wiffle set?-—.. Maleah Bailey, have put logether instructional ‘ ‘‘(Brian) wanted lo play T-ball this year. videos on hitting, outfield defense and catch­ Wen, he can do it at home I guess.” said ing for young softball and baseball players to Amber with a smile. work on al home. ! The sporting goods were passed out to 89 Many local families got all geared up for families Tuesday in Middleville. The TAPRC the summer season at the TAPRC’s used ^ill shadow theTK Schools meal distribution equipment sale, which happened thc weekend efforts in the days ahead, passing out more before school was suspended in early March. equipment at Yankee Springs Meadows The TAPRC raised nearly $1,000 selling the Monday (June 1) and at the Freeport Library donated, used sports equipment. 'piursday (June 4). “It hit every objective that wc wanted,” ! “People have been so grateful,’’ said Emily Getty said. “ We made a good amount of Dock, who was on hand with Getty and Jamie money. We had so many families that came Holmes to distribute the equipment. and got equipped for baseball and softball. It i Tlie TAPRC members distributed packets was so fun to sec them trying all die stuff. We of fruit, vegetable and flower seeds donated had several kids that were completely by Wal-Mart too. equipped (from head to toe).” Businesses and organizations like Phillips Spectrum Health offers COVID-19 antibody testing Spectrum Health is offering COVID-19 antibody testing to the general public. The antibody testing will help meet a community need and determine how widely the disease has spread through West Michigan. The antibody, or serology, test is a blood test designed to detect a previous CO VID-19 infection through thc presence of dis­ ease-fighting antibodies. Spectrum Health is offering a two-tiered test, recommended by die U5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which targets the IgG antibody specific to the virus that causes COVID-19. This test improves accuracy by confirming results using two different mechanisms. “Wc know that anyone who receives a pos­ itive result on this test has been exposed to COVID-19.” Susan Smith, Spectrum Health senior director of laboratory services, said in a press release. “We hope this testing will help us team more about how lhe disease spreads in our community and who it hits affected. The two-tiered test, available at al Spectrum Health laboratories, is not rcstnckd to a specific patient population but docs require an order from a doctor or a practice provider, h is not intended for he SXs COVID-19 wd\hou)d only be used 10 or more days after the onset of symptoms. . n..|u Individuals who would like a test should contact their health care J’rov'de7ii Health has the capacity to conduc up to antibody tests per day w.th resnlItsty >.cahy available within 2d hours. The <■*’' . n $45 and should lx- covered b> most msur ®nce plans. Spectrum Health cautions that the presence of antibodies does not mean an individual js immune to COVID-19, nor does it support easing behaviors, such as social distancing, wearing a face mask and regularly washing your hands. b Anyone experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 may call the Spectrum Health hotline, 833-559-0659, to be scheduled for a free virtual screening. Anyone with severe or life-threatening symptoms should call 91 J. TK graduate cruise set for Friday Thornapple Kellogg senior Kyle Gonzales collects his cap and gown from the Trojan mascot in a decorated car during a mid-May ceremony at the high school in Middleville. TKHS Class of 2020 members will be encouraged to wear those caps and gowns Friday evening if they wish, 2nd to decorate their vehicles any way they'd like, for a car cruise through downtown Middleville. Seniors will line up for the cruise near the intersection of Crane Road and Grand Rapids Street on the northwest side of town and follow Grand Rapids Street onto Main Street up to the light where it meets M-37, before dispersing. Wheels are set to start rolling at 7 p.m. The people of Middleville should take proper social-distancing precautions while cheering on the graduating class from along the route. Elenbaas arad ifcrks earn letic honors □ Haylee Marks has been named the Female Athlete of the Year for the Class of 2020 at Lakewood High School. Ute Lakewood High School athletic depart­ ment announced its 2020 Senior Athletic Awards Thursday, a date originally scheduled as the commencement day for thc graduating class. Jacob Elenbaas and Haylee Marks from the Class of 20^0 have been named the Male and Female Athlete of the Y«ar respectively, and lheir photographs will join the others who MEDC expands programs to aid small businesses Michigan Economic Development Com p»-a»nt1w annrains*»zl I — •_?.• .• •r • ------- ------------- • m help support the economic recovery efforts of small businesses and traditional downtownsThc MI Local Biz Communitv Crowdfunding Program, which pairs success ful crowdfunding efforts with a financial match from the MEDC; an expansion m Match on Main to support recovery efforts of small businesses through grants to local units of government, downtown development authorities, or other downtown management organizations; and a new website that offers resources for downtowns and communities as they plan for their re-openings following the COVID-19 crisis. “Thc expansion of these programs will help Michigan’s small businesses, especially retail vices |0 <)ur residenis, as they work to recover from the loss of revenue as a result of the COVID-19 virus.” CEO Mark A. Burlon -su,dThe she, michigan^P^nmainstrect.com, is intended to assist Main Street directors, T w . downlown developin’-”1 zl J rity managers, small business owners and local stakeholders as they navigate the complexities of re-open­ ing their local business disirict.s. Other resources can found online at niichiganbtisiness.ofg/tOVK Die MEDC also has dcve|()Jx.(| answers u, frequently asked quests’”1’ °t Michigan bust nesscs and communitiesat mivhit’nnbusines>. org/covidl9-faq Jacob Elenbaas has been named lhe Male Athlete of the Year for the Class of 2020 at Lakewood High School. have been honored that way on the wall outside the high school gymnasium. Elenbaas has been a member ot the varsity football, boys’ basketball and baseball teams during his high school days. Marks played volleyball, girls* basketball and girls tennis. Other senior class awards were announced as well. John Hewitt and Grace Roth-Botsford were named the Ml AAA Achievement Award winners. The Marine Corp Awards went to Jon Clack and Kristine Possehn. The Army National Guard Awards were won by Grant Clarkson and Jordan Shank. Lakewood announced this week that it will hold a face-to-face commencement ceremony June 25 if it is allowed per state regulation, vs ith a back-up date of July 23. CLASS OF 2020 Help support the Class of 2020 Limited amount ofsitjns left. a $io 1251 N. Broadway 269.945.9105 �12 — Thursday, May 28,2020 — The Hartings Banner Hastings seniors spend Friday night at their own drive-in movie conic out of this weird time.” she said. “One Luke Froncheck joke 1 made was that senior skip days became Staff Writer As the sun dropped out of sight lasl Friday, a jot easier because all you had to do was • avoid Google Classroom. tvening, a portion of the Bony Expo Center When one of thc speakers said something Was filled with a gathering like no other - one that flooded the horizon with lights, smiles, that resonated with thc crowd, the crowd, which resembled a full parking lot, responded toughs and car horns. The Hastings High School Class of 2020 with car lights and horns. "Hearing various speeches from my presented with its very own drive-in classmates on the night wc originally would movie showing. Rather than featuring the next Disney have been graduating on was so moving, and movie or hil comedy, the film presented to the I think it was exactly what everyone needed,” Larabee said. seniors was much more personal. The ongoing situation surrounding the It was an hour-long presentation of photos from their lime throughout school as well as novel coronavirus has created multiple hardships for people all throughout Barry their academy awards. or mock elections. “The senior drive-in this past Friday was County, high school seniors included. But, when asked if she could go back and nothing but an absolute success, the turnout of seniors, seniors* parents and even other family change it all - no COVID-19, no missed was so awesome.” senior Abby Larabee said. school, no postponed graduation - Johnson “I know personally thc senior drive-in meant opted to stick with the cards she and her a lot to me as I got io be able to see all my fellow seniors have been dealt. classmates, their families, and it was so "This has just been so much more relieving lo see everyone and be able to talk to memorable of a senior year,” Johnson said. "I liked having the free time that came with everyone face to face again.” Care swarmed thc Expo Center lawn with online school. I got to manage my own time students catching up with their classmates and prep for my future. When I’m in college, from afar while trying lo abide by social­ there won’t be anyone waking me up for distancing rules. class.” “No other class has got to do things like May 22 was the scheduled graduation day, we have," senior Hannah Johnson said. “It leading co-organizcr Carrie Larabee to mark was really nice to sec every one.” lhe date in lhe calendar as one where some Johnson was one of a few sludent speakers sort of senior celebration had to happen. at the event, and during her time on stage she “They needed to be together lo celebrate opted to speak a message of optimism. ( the old graduation date,” Larabee said. on 1. "I talked about lhe positives that have “The event was even bigger and belter 9 honoring seniors line the entry drive as graduates and their families drive into the Barry Expo Center Friday night. Hastings senior parent Stacy Steward helps set up the screen last Wednesday night, (Photo provided.) boys ga,her in’ °n and ar°und a suv during ,heir seni°r than 1 imagined It.” While the seniors knew they were driving up to the big screen, they were unaware what would be shown on the screen. They knew the movie was aboul them, Larabee said, but they had no idea that their annual academy awards would be substituting for credits al lhe end of the movie. "Wc featured each senior’s picture and toddler picture,” Lirabee said. ”It was fun listening to them laugh and applaud through the movie, and just be so happy to be celebrating with each other.” "When the kids drove out, they all were _________ ___ ________ Parents (from left) Jason Larabee, Carrie Larabee, Stacy Steward, Kyle Steward still so happy and thankful for such a fun and Rick Brown, help sei up the screen lasl Wednesday night, (Photo provided.) night together.” Upon leaving, each senior was given a cookie decorated with a 2020 design and small bottle of water. Larabee was joined'in planning the event by other organizers including Kyle and Stacy Steward, Angie Curtis' Cheryl Brown, Sarah Cappon, Ann Beemer, Jason Larabee, Rick Brown. Tj Cappon and Leaping Lizards Event organizers Carrie Larabee (left) and Cheryl Brown pose for a photo after Landscaping. “The effort lhe senior parents Pul into thc helping set up the screen last week. (Photo provided.) drive to make it a success was absolutely amazing,” Abby Larabee said. "Our senior this lime lo make sure we are loved, cared for parents have went above and beyond during and thought of, and it’s truly made this entire situation so much belter.” We at J-ad Graphics are ready to help Running for a Political Office? you with your campaign needs. Advertising Yard Signs • Banners • Flyers Self Mailers such as postcards and brochures Inserts in the Newspaper Specialty items such as pens magnets, balloons, and more Cail 269-945-9554 for more information More than 150 vehicles watch lhe senior video at the Expo Center. (Photo provided.) � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-06-04.pdf adc826719da86f8b6c695fe585614946 PDF Text Text COVID-19 testing starts at two local facilities Today’s actions are tomorrow’s history See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 9 Return to School Task Force is up and running See Story on Page 9 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 1070490102590504181149058113421 ANNER Thursday, June 4, 2020 VOLUME 167, No. 2b 804879110187 PRICE 750 Great Lakes Energy eyeing broadband possibilities here Greg Chandler Staff Writer About three weeks removed from the announcement of an $11.8 million federal grant and loan package to Barry County Services Co. for expanding broadband service to 10 townships in the county, other providers are eyeing opportunities to bring broadband to the area. Great Lakes Energy, a rural electric power cooperative based in northern Lower Michigan, has expressed interest in developing broadband in the Wayland area and portions of Barry County. It is one of several areas in the state under consideration for expansion of broadband service, co-op spokeswoman Shari Culver said. “We are in the early stages of exploration and information-gathering in these areas, which is Phase 1,” Culver wrote in an email to the Banner Wednesday. “Construction will only begin once we determine feasibility and receive approval from our board of directors. Construction is Phase 2 and would take place in 2021 and 2022, if approved by the GLE board of directors. In-home installations would be Phase 3 and would take place starting in 2022 in at least one of those three service areas.” Great Lakes Energy entered the broadband industry about two years ago when it began offering its Truestream service in Petoskey, and has since expanded to Boyne City, where the co-op has its headquarters, said John LaForge, a Delton resident who sits on Great Lakes’ board of directors. “Part of the culture with co-ops is that every member gets the same thing,” LaForge said. “Whenever possible, the fiber’s going to go right to that person’s house. It won’t be wireless with a tower.” Other sites under consideration for expansion include the Hart and Newaygo areas. Great Lakes Energy currently has more than 3,200 electric customers in Barry County, and those customers would be offered the broadband service if the co-op board decides to move ahead with construction, Culver said in a follow-up telephone interview. Culver said Great Lakes is looking at a number of possible funding streams for expansion of broadband, one of which is the Federal Communications Commission’s new Rural Digital Opportunity Fund auction, which is making up to $16 billion available for deployment of fixed broadband networks in unserved rural areas of the country. Bidding on the first phase of the RDOF initiative is planned for October, according to an FCC release issued earlier this year. “[The FCC] looks at all these census blocks where their records show there’s no 25-[megabyte per second] service available,” said Dan Manning, a community technology advisor for Connected Nation Michigan, an organization that has been campaigning for expanding broadband to rural communities across the state. “So, they will package together a number of census blocks and say, ‘OK, this is one service area that we want to fix,’ and then they’ll take bids from the various providers to see who wants to do that.” A July 2018 study by Connected Nation Michigan found that 72.5 percent of households in Barry County had access to a broadband service with at least a minimum speed of 10 megabytes per second, which is sufficient for most basic internet functions with a minimal number of devices. However, only 48.5 percent of households in the county' See BROADBAND, page 11 SpaceX rocket makes history, heralds new era for space travel Luke Froncheck Staff Writer A successful lift-off Saturday began a mis­ sion that made Robert Behnken and Douglas Hurley the first two astronauts to travel to the international spaceship in a rocket manufac­ tured by a private company - SpaceX. The rocket, Falcon-9, lifted off at 3:22 p.m. Saturday. The original launch scheduled for Wednesday was postponed due to inclement weather. The project - and the corresponding idea of commercial space tourism and exploration was backed by billionaire Elon Musk. “This is the culmination of a dream.”’ Musk told CBS News ahead of the launch. “This is a dream come true.” The rocket completed its mission when it landed on the International Space Station Sunday afternoon - doing so autonomously, a new feature of the upgraded capsule produced by SpaceX. There, Behnken and Hurley will live for the next few months - the exact time not yet known. When their mission is complete - they will re-board the Falcon 9 and return to Earth. “I am excited about great moments in sci­ ence and discovery that fuel kids’ imagina­ tions,” Barry Intermediate School District Superintendent Richard Franklin said Wednesday. “When I was a young child, only astronauts - which back then meant only men, and mainly ex-fighter pilots - could go into space. “Today, any little boy or girl can imagine the possibilities of space travel as a civilian passenger. I hope what really gets them excit­ ed. though, is the dream ‘to explore strange new worlds. To seek out new life and new civilizations. To boldly go where no man has gone before!’ ” Another version of the upgraded capsule model, the Cargo Dragon, was designed to use the automated docking method to simplify deliveries to the ISS. The capsule carrying the astronauts was designed to fly almost entirely autonomously as well. However, Behnken and Hurley took the controls of the capsule while they were still in Earth’s orbit to test its manual capabil­ ities. The success of the two astronauts is viewed as the start of a new era in travel into the unknown - space tourism. The idea of this infinite tourist attraction is not entirely new. Seven people have already paid for a ticket to space through the Russian space program, but none have done so since 2009. “In terms of what impact it’s going to have, Robert Behnken and Douglas Hurley take off Saturday for their roughly 19-hoir trip to the International Space Station. COVID-19 spurs immediate hires for health department Board members disagree on whether to hold off A six-figure request to add four new positions at the Barry-Eaton District Health Department was narrowly approved by the BEDHD board Thursday. The need for the larger staff, health offi­ cer Colette Scrimger said, is because of CO VID-19. “Since March 16, BEDHD has been operating with reduced services while staff time has been redirected to COVID-19 response activities,” Scrimger said in her staffing proposal. “Some services have been stopped completely while other ser­ vices have been operating at a minimal capacity level. COVID-19 response has consumed the vast majority of staff time since then. However, the services that have been stopped or minimized cannot continue in that way or there is an increased risk of other public health issues developing.” Last week, Scrimger mentioned the expectation that Gov. Gretchen Whitmer would ease executive order restrictions. That happened this week. The governor’s action adds to the need for additional staff at the health department, Scrimger told the board. “As Stay At Home orders are loosened/ lifted, demand for services will increase and staff capacity must be allocated to address those needs.” Scrimger estimated that it would take between six and 12 weeks to fill the four vacancies and longer to on-board and train staff. That, she said, just underscored the urgency to implement the plan immediately to hire a new epidemiologist to lead the department’s CO VID-19 response, a per­ sonal health supervisor, two nurses, and the promotion of Anne Barna, the planning, promotion and evaluation manager, to a director will cost the department $107,000 this year and $355,000 in fiscal year 2021. Scrimger said the epidemiologist posi­ tion, in particular, would be critical to lead­ ing the department’s COVID-19 response effort, while overseeing the response to communicable disease and setting the direction, making critical decisions on where resources need to be deployed. “We need someone who understands the nature of disease spread and the risk that COVID poses,” she told the board. “That’s why that epidemiologist position is very critical.” Working with the epidemiologist will be the two new nurses, which would help give them “the bench strength when a vaccine becomes available,” she said. Currently, the department has state and federal revenue sources totaling $260,000 for COVJD-19 as well as $130,000 for essential local health services. The depart­ ment’s last audit showing a $1.8 million fund balance, Scrimger noted. “Funding for the COVID-19 response has come in small bursts,” she wrote in her proposal. “Some state/federal funding has already been directed to local health depart­ ments and there is talk that more funding is on the way. In addition, BEDHD has sub­ mitted for FEMA reimbursement for expenses related to the pandemic.” The department has the ability to support these positions for at least a year, she said. All three Barry County commissioners who serve on the health department board - Ben Geiger, Dave Jackson and Jon See HEALTH, page 10 See ROCKET, page 2 Justice will be served - via Zoom if necessary Rebecca Pierce Editor A pandemic appears to have made little difference in Barry County District Court. In recent weeks, the court docket has been filled with a variety of criminal cases - armed robbery, criminal sexual conduct, drunken driving, and domestic violence, among others. State executive orders may have shut down many government functions for the past three months, but not the criminal court operation in Hastings. “My life has changed the least of any­ body,” Judge Michael Schipper said during a break recently. “My staff does all the work. I just show up.” The Michigan Supreme Court, which post­ ed plans Wednesday to begin reopening courts, originally gave them some guidelines a couple of months ago and the leeway to determine what needed to be done to ensure “to the greatest extent possible,” that justice would be served. “Which means to me we’re supposed to do everything we can,” Schipper, who’s respon­ sible for handling criminal matters. The work of the court is essential, he said. “We have people in custody. We don’t want them languishing.” “And anytime I thought the public might be at risk - the domestic violence cases, drunk driving cases - we continue to do those mat­ ters. Some courts are barely doing anything.” That was not the case in Barry County. Still, some changes are evident: The public can watch court proceedings from home via YouTube, not from a seat in the courtroom. And anyone who requires entry to the build­ ing is carefully screened with no more than 10 people are allowed in any courtroom. When attorneys and their clients are present for pro­ ceedings, along with court support staff and the judge, it’s unlikely that any family mem­ bers could be allowed in court to support family members. See COURT, page 10 Defendants and their attorneys appear on screen during proceedings as they interact with the judge and other court staff. Proceedings may be viewed by the public when they are livestreamed on YouTube, but these are not archived. �Page 2 — Thursday, June 4, 2020 — The Hastings Banner ROCKET, continued from page 1 Hastings High School senior Grace Gillons used her artistic talent to honor the life of George Floyd of Minneapolis whose death at the hands of police officers sparked protests across the country. Artwork for awareness Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Grace Gillons just finished her senior year at Hastings High School and, like many, she viewed the video of 46-year-old George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis. “I saw what had happened to Mr. Floyd, and I felt that I should spread awareness about what had happened,” Gillons said. Rather than take to the streets with a bull horn, the 18-year-old artist took a different approach. With chalk in hand, she took to the streets of Hastings to create a work of art commemorating Floyd by portraying him in a chalk drawing next to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. “Justice for George Floyd,” she wrote around the drawing of Floyd. “Spread love, not hate. #Unite I have a dream,” she wrote around her chalk portrait of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Her artwork took Monday and Tuesday to complete as she drew Floyd and Dr. King on the sidewalk north of the old Barry County Courthouse. “I wanted to spread the idea that we are all Americans, and we all deserve love, no matter what,” Gillons said. “I wanted to make it a peaceful reminder, especially after seeing all of the violence in bigger cities.” Gillons said she hoped her actions will foster the idea of peace and love in the hearts and minds of those who see the work. “I want Mr. Floyd to be remembered,” she said. “I hope that it made more people aware of the incident and that, even in a small town, we can help make a difference.” St. Rose staff celebrates students as school year closes ■ St. Rose teachers line the parking lot to celebrate the end of the school year for students as their parents drive through. Luke Froncheck Staff Writer The students at St. Rose Catholic school in Hastings got a unique send-off into summer Friday morning. Their teachers, in the pouring rain, lined up in the parking lot with signs encouraging and congratulating the kids. ' Students stayed nice and dry in vehicles while school staff cheered and waved from afar. Teachers did their best to simultaneously wave at the kids, hold their signs, and prop up umbrellas, trying to stay dry on the wet morning. Students poked their heads out of car windows looking for their teacher, who they likely haven’t seen in person since March. Parents drove through the parking lot in parade-like fashion. Administrative assistant Kelly Maurer handed out popsicles as vehicles passed by. The brief event started at 11 a.m., and by 11:05 the line of vehicles was almost out of the church parking lot. I think time will tell,” Lakewood Public Schools Business Director Ben Wakley said. “I think it’s cool that a private entity is taking the initiative to approach the government for an alternative to space travel. “In the past,we have been using Russian spacecraft to take astronauts into space and we pay whatever the Russians ask for. Opening it up to private entities give us options. SpaceX has the opportunity to make it better for cheaper and they will only get government contracts by doing so. “I think it’s really fascinating to look into and see where it will go in the future.” Two other U.S .-based, billionaire founded, private companies, Richard Branson’s Virgin Galactic and Jeff Bezos’s Blue Origin, are planning to offer flights into suborbital space this year. But neither company seems intent on stay­ ing there - with staff members of Virgin Galactic considering ideas like hotels orbiting Earth and Bezos’s Blue Origin plan to fly passengers to Earth’s orbit and beyond. “The launch of SpaceX is really an exciting thing for all of us — at least on some level,” Hastings Area Schools Superintendent Dan Remenap said. “The notion of a multi-plane­ tary lifestyle is something that sounds like it is right out of a science-fiction movie, and it is becoming more of a possibility right before our eyes ... Pretty amazing, even if hard to grasp. “I don’t know that we will really feel the effects on a local level for years to come, but the expansion of space exploration is an excit­ ing one and, if nothing else, should create a sense of excitement and curiosity in all of us.” Saturday’s milestone was not only historic for private industry, but also NASA and the nation because it marks the first time Americans have been sent to space from their home soil since the end of the NASA space shuttle program in 2011. Since then, NASA astronauts have been hitching expensive rides on Russian rockets to get to space. Last weekend’s successful launch had not come without a fair share of failures for the SpaceX team. The weather cancellation Robert Behnken and Douglas Hurley arrive at the International Space Station. “As the world continuously becomes more connected, we may be able to use this program to improve infrastructure to aid in the advancement of our power grid, traffic control, and cellular systems - not to mention advancement in areas we haven’t even thought of yet.” Jennifer Heinzman, Barry County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance executive director and president Wednesday was not the only obstacle that the SpaceX staff had to overcome to get their manned rocket to the ISS. Stumbles include a few rocket launch fail­ ures. In fact, a prototype of a SpaceX starship exploded during an engine fire test on Friday. The successful mission Saturday was called Crew Dragon Demo-2 because the Demo-1 exploded during a test in 2019. But, before it turned into a firework, Demo-1 made a suc­ cessful, unmanned, mission to the ISS. “As the world continuously becomes more connected, we may be able to use this pro­ gram to improve infrastructure to aid in the advancement of our power grid, traffic con­ trol, and cellular systems, not to mention advancement in areas we haven’t even thought of yet,” said Jennifer Heinzman, executive director and president of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance. “As an economic developer, I find technological advancements very exciting and hope that it increases oppor­ tunities for manufacturers in our area. “With the current economic climate, we should be open to any and all opportunities as the world is forced to pivot. “In this case, the sky really is the limit.” HEALTH, continued from page 1 Smelker — expressed reservations about the staffing requests. “We can certainly justify hiring more pub­ lic health workers today, but it’s my job to ask ‘Can we afford them tomorrow?”’ Geiger said later. “I remain concerned how these positions will be funded in the future, and that’s why voted against the majority of this proposal.” At the meeting, Geiger remarked, “With this proposal, I’m hesitant to vote yes because I don’t know if it’s, good for us, long-term. State and federal governments are pushing down mandates and we don’t have the funds in hand. ... These costs are not one time; they’re recurring. “Second, our department has found a way to get things done. I don’t know how much better we could perform with that (epidemiol­ ogist) position than we already are. Third, we should assume the worst. Worst-case scenar­ io: What if state and federal revenue doesn’t come through? What if we don’t get reim­ bursed? What then? All the positions are jus­ tified, but I think we should take these one at a time. Vote on each individually.” The health board chairman, Joe Brehler of Eaton County, pointed out, “We’re not voting on anything,” since, at that point, no one had made a motion on Scrimger’s proposal. Even then, no motion was offered, but the discussion continued. Jackson said he wasn’t opposed to the pro­ posal, but that he would be “more supportive of a phased-in approach rather than waving the wand and putting four (new staffers) in place. ... I think there’s a way to accomplish this in a logical fashion.” Jackson said he didn’t believe there was a desire by either Barry or Eaton county to increase their appropriations to the health department. So approving this staffing pro­ posal would be “kind of jumping off the ledge...,” since “those (state and federal) funding sources haven’t been approved yet.” “We’re still looking at a $6 million budget with a 5- or 6-percent increase,” Jackson pointed out. “$355,000 is a chunk of change. We’d all feel better if we knew the money was there.” ‘Tm going to vote ‘no’ on this. I would rather see two nurses come on than raise someone we already have at this time. I’m not saying she don’t deserve it. That’s all I’ve got to say.” Jon Smelker, Barry County Commisioner Geiger agreed, noting that $355,000 rep­ resents 19 percent of the health department’s total budget “every year. I mean, these are staff, payroll expenditures. I would be a lot more comfortable going ahead with this plan if we knew the resources were going to be there. “We are taking a big leap of faith when we should be asking our state and federal partners to give us some assurance that they want us to do these things.” Brehler expressed two concerns: “We don’t have the bench strength without pulling peo­ ple off their other jobs to try to cover this “We need someone who understands the nature of disease spread and the risk that COVID poses. That’s why that epidemiologist position is very critical.” Colette Scrimger, BEDHD health officer (COVID-19). And we’re forced to be reac­ tive.” “We have an ongoing responsibility to the health of our community,” he emphasized. Eaton County’s Jane Whitacre mentioned the current intense schedule for health depart­ ment employees which has been caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and said this is unrealistic and unfair to the staff. “I think, like Joe says, this is proactive.” Blake Mulder, also of Eaton County, point­ ed out, “This is an unusual situation where she Scrimger) is trying to project into the future. If the long-term funding does not appear, she will not keep people we can’t afford.” “This is truly public health, it’s what we’re meant to do. This actually is the mandate of public health. I’m comfort­ able giving them (Collette Scrimger and her staff) the lead, knowing she’ll pull back if we need to.” Blake Mulder I “This is truly public health,” Mulder noted, “it’s what we’re meant to do. This actually is the mandate of public health. I’m comfortable giving them (Scrimger and her staff) the lead, knowing she’ll pull back if we need to. “Currently, funding sources are there. ...A year from now? Who knows? I’m going to leave that to our administrators because they’re good at this.” That’s when Scrimger repeated that the funding the department currently has will cover a year of the costs of the additional staff — at a minimum. If the time comes when the funding isn’t there, “then we will deal with this through attrition,” she explained. “All of you know we have really regular turnover.” Any time a vacancy occurs, they do an evaluation to determine if the position is sill critical, whether it is still needed and if fund­ ing for it has changed. This happened during the H1N1 crisis, Scrimger pointed out. “What I am asking is that you consider doing this to help us get through this intense time,” she said. Brehler expressed the view that COVID-19 will not be a short-term issue. “I think it is going to be an ongoing situation. “Yes, we’re going to have to reassess, but if we allow the federal or state government to start making decision, we’re going to be behind the curve.” “We might be a stronger position 30 days from now,” Geiger replied. “We can protect public health in a fiscally responsible way.” Geiger added that he had no problem with supporting the promotion request. Blake Mulder made the motion for two classification changes, one of which was the Barna promotion, while the other created a full-time personal health supervisor. Jane Whitacre supported the motion. At that point, Barry County Commissioner Jon Smelker spoke up: “I’m going to vote ‘no’ on this. I would rather see two nurses come on than raise someone we already have at this time. I’m not saying she don’t deserve it. That’s all I’ve got to say.” — “... Our department has found a way to get things done. I don’t know how much better we could perform with that (epidemiologist) position than we already are.” Ben Geiger, Barry County Commissioner Jackson said, “If the positions are fully funded for the rest of the year and the next 12 months .. .1 do see a need to inject some sup­ port into the health department to get through this crisis so I’m going to support the propos­ al. “But I repeat my previous comments, I’m nervous about budgets going forward and there won’t be an appetite, speaking from what I know of Barry County, as far as addi­ tional appropriation going forward, and I’m nervous about fund balances ... I can support them if they’re funded. Geiger said: “I’m going to vote no on this. It’s a major staffing change. Too many ques­ tions out there.... I think we can still make an impact that’s measurable at a time when we know more information.... I would like to see this tabled until next month. Smelker said: “I would’ve voted yes if it had the most direct impact on helping pur department out now.” The vote on those two positions was 5-1 with Smelker voting no. The second action, for a new epidemiolo­ gist and two full-time nurses, moved by Mulder, with a second by Geiger “for the sake of discussion,” was approved, 4-2, with Geiger and Smelker voting against it and Jackson, Brehler, Mulder and Whitacre voting for it. The COVID-19 pandemic is expected to last at least another year or longer, until such time a vaccine is available and widely imple­ mented, according to Scrimger. To protect health in the district, BEDHD must be able to effectively respond to positive COVID-19 cases and monitor their close con­ tacts to reduce further community spread, she wrote in her proposal to the health department board. Measures taken to date have helped to “flatten the curve” with hopes that precau­ tions taken going forward will prevent future spikes of disease, Scrimger wrote. Based on current caseload volumes, BEDHD cannot effectively respond to COVID-19 and resume full regular operations with existing staff capacity. Instead, staffing changes must be considered to assure an effective public health response during the pandemic, she concluded. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 4, 2020 — Page 3 Michigan starts getting back to business Luke Froncheck Staff Writer After 71 days of staying home - Michigan residents can step outside and do more than just take a walk. On Tuesday, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer aiinounced the lifting of the Stay Home, Stay Safe order - allowing outdoor gatherings of up to 100 people to occur and a multitude of vehues to allow patrons to enter their busi­ nesses. Starting Monday, June 8, restaurant owners can open locked doors, light grills that have been cold for three months, and welcome guests in. Retail shops can open doors and welcome foot traffic. “The best advice I can give to business owners is to quell customers’ concerns by maintaining clean spaces, practicing social distancing, providing PPE (personal protec­ tive equipment) to their employees, commu­ nicating their plans, and ensuring their employees and the community feel safe. The more communication, the better,” said Executive Director and President of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance Jennifer Heinzman. But the transition from shutdown to normal will not be instantaneous, Heinzman said. “People should not expect the bounce back to be immediate,” she said. “Each of our lives have been altered, and directly impacted by this crisis. “With safety suddenly a high-value com modity. companies will need to clearly com­ municate and demonstrate that they have kept their customers, employees, and supply-chain partners safe during the shutdown, as well as what steps they’re taking to operate safely as they reopen.” Along with her announcement on Tuesday, Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-110, outlining the various businesses that may open, along with the regulations governing those re-openings. “I believe people are ready to get back to their lives; open businesses are vital to the economy and, as long as everyone is protect­ ing themselves, we will be able to recover while maintaining the health and well-being of our communities,” Heinzman said. Restaurants will be allowed to open at 50-percent capacity. Patrons will have to keep a 6-foot distance from other groups and all servers will have to wear masks. Before this week’s order, retail businesses could have up to 10 customers shopping at one time - with all business being done by appointment. Starting today, shoppers can roam from place to place without appointment times and customer numbers capped at 10. Social dis­ tancing and safe coronavirus rules will remain in effect, however. “We may be living with the effects of this virus for many weeks, months, or even years ... no one knows how long it will take to develop a vaccine. We need to learn how to safely live with it,” Heinzman said. “We will find our ‘new normal’ and adjust accordingly. “This is not the first time America has faced major challenges; I believe we will learn, pivot, and come out of this stronger than ever.” Even as businesses open doors, Heinzman acknowledged that some people will have fears regarding leaving their homes and going back into public. “While this is both a health and economic crisis, we need to support our local businesses while maintaining the health and safety of our communities, in order to recapture the vibran­ cy that we knew just a few months ago,” she said. “We are truly all in this together.” Retailers and restaurants aren’t the only venues gearing up for a re-opening. While classrooms are closed for the sum­ mer, students will get their first opportunity for time away from their families as summer camps open up, providing a fraction of nor­ malcy to a summer filled with differences and an actual pandemic. All children day camps and pools are set to open on Monday, June 8. High school seniors were offered a bit of relief in the order as it specifically mentioned, and allowed, for them to host their high school graduation parties as long as people J.-ho don’t live together remain 6 feet apart and there are no more than 100 people present at one time. Outdoor fitness classes, athletic practices, training sessions and games were allowed immediately under the order, if coaches, spec­ tators and participants - not from the same household - maintain a distance of 6 feet from one another at all times with no more than 100 in attendance. In-home cleaning services and drive-in movie theaters also were immediately permit­ ted under the order. Officer workers who can complete their jobs from home are recommended to stay home, but those who can only work from an office setting may return to work. But with so many doors set to open, some will remain closed. All non-essential personal care services, including hair, tanning, nail, massage, tradi­ tional spa, tattoo, body art, and piercing ser­ vices will remain closed. Theaters, cinemas, and performance venue seats will remain closed for the time being, as will indoor gymnasiums, fitness centers, rec­ reation centers, sports facilities, exercise facilities, exercise studios. Casinos licensed by the Michigan Gaming Control Board, racetracks licensed by the: Michigan Gaming Control Board, and Millionaire Parties licensed by the Michigan Gaming Control Board will all stay closed under the order. Other recreational facilities that will remairf closed include: amusement parks, arcades; bingo halls, bowling alleys, indoor climbing facilities, indoor dance areas, skating rinks J trampoline parks, and other similar recre­ ational or entertainment facilities. “The businesses that will survive and thrive are the ones that can be flexible and adaptable to consumers’ new and evolving needs,’* Heinzman said. “They’ll need to plan careful-i ly and understand not only what may need tq change about their business, but what new* growth opportunities may exist in a post-pan­ demic world.” She encouraged business owners to take advantage of the state’s work-share programi The program is meant for those who are not in a position where bringing back all employees is a viable option. Those employers have the option of bring­ ing back employees at 10 to 60 percent of their normal salaries with the state covering the remainder of their salaries. Recapping order that opens businesses in Michigan Bridge Magazine Here’s a look at what’s allowed — and when — for the entire state. IMMEDIATELY Leave home: Michiganders are no longer required to stay home whenever possible, a policy that had been in place the past 69 days. Outdoor group gatherings: “Outdoor social gatherings and events are permitted so long as people maintain 6 feet of distance from one another and the assemblage consists of no more than 100 people,” according to Whitmer’s order. Indoor gatherings of more than 10 people remain prohibited. Drive-in movie theaters: While police had moved to shut down some drive-in movie theaters in recent weeks, Whitmer said Monday that her new order allows them to operate legally. Outdoor fitness classes: Whitmer’s new order also allows for outdoor fitness classes, athletic practices, training sessions or games — “provided that coaches, spectators, and participants not from the same household maintain six feet of distance from bne another at all times during such activities.” Equipment and supplies should be shared “to the mini­ mum extent possible” and should be frequent­ ly cleaned and disinfected. Office work: “Office work that is not capa­ ble of being performed at home can resume, but you’re still expected to work from home if it is possible,” Whitmer said. House cleaning: “House cleaning services and other in-home services can also resume,” Whitmer said. ALLOWED EVERYWHERE JUNE 4 Retail stores: While grocery stores never closed and other retailers were allowed to reopen by appointment since May 26, Whitmer’s new order will allow all retailers across Michigan to open their doors to cus­ tomers on Thursday. Like shops in northern Michigan already allowed to reopen, retailers that reopen this week must comply with new workplace safety rules, including mandatory face coverings for staff and customers. Smaller retailers with less than 50,000 square feet can only allow 25 percent of their usual shoppers inside at any one time. ALLOWED EVERYWHERE JUNE 8 Restaurants, bars and more: Restaurants, food courts, cafes, coffeehouses, bars, tav­ erns, brew pubs, breweries, microbreweries, distilleries, wineries, tasting rooms, special licensees, clubs can reopen across the state on June 8. But just like Up North, downstate restau­ rants and bars must limit capacity to 50 per­ cent of their normal seating, require 6 feet of separation between tables, ensure employees wear masks and take other safety precautions. Buffets and salad bars must remain closed, which might make for an unusual experience at your local Old Country Buffet. Outdoor shimming pools: While Southeast Michigapjffl)^ pfh^r communities have already announced indefinite closures of swimming pools, Wliitmer’s"order allows local govern­ ments to reopen outdoor public pools by June 8. Outdoor public pools must limit capacity to 50 percent, and indoor swimming pools must remain closed. Day camps: Day camps for kids can reopen June 8, subject to forthcoming guidance from the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. Overnight camps must remain closed for the time being. It’s not immediately clear when that guidance will be issued. Libraries and museums: Libraries and museums may reopen June 8 but must adhere to workplace rules already released for retail­ ers. That means capacity limits, mandatory masks and other safety protocols. REQUIRED AT SOME RETAILERS JUNE 15 Bottle returns: Bottle deposit returns, sus­ pended since late March, will also partially resume June 15 under a phase-in plan announced Monday by the Michigan Treasury. Only retailers with dedicated facilities at the front of their store or housed in a separate area and processed by machines will be required to accept bottle returns on that date. To avoid a huge rush of customers sitting on piles of bottles, retailers are allowed to limit deposit returns to $25 per day per indi­ vidual, establish special or limited hours for bottle return facilities, limit the number of machines they use, periodically close bottle return facilities for cleaning and implement other procedures they “determine are neces­ sary or advisable to promote safety and/or efficiency.” STILL CLOSED, FOR NOW Indoor theaters, cinemas and performance venues Gymnasiums, fitness centers, recreation centers, sports facilities, exercise facilities and exercise studios. ‘Av/ , Casinos (although some tribhl casinos have reopened) Amusement parks, arcades, bingo halls, bowling alleys, indoor climbing facilities, indoor dance areas, skating rinks, trampoline parks “and other similar recreational or enter­ tainment facilities” and other businesses that involve “close contact of persons, for amuse­ ment or other recreational or entertainment purposes.” Businesses offering “non-essential personal care services” to customers, including hair, nail, tanning, massage, traditional spa, tattoo, body art and piercing services. Hair salons and barber shops have emerged as a flashpoint in debate over Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s COVID-19 orders, largely because of Karl Manke, the defiant barber in Owosso who reopened and refused to close until a court order last week. But those services “necessarily involve close contact and shared surfaces” that could facilitate spread of the virus and cannot yet reopen, according to Whitmer’s new order. “If you’re like me and you need a haircut separately, a couple more weeks of this and we may be back in a place where we’re able to do that,” Whtimer said Monday. “It’s still going to require protocols. It’s still gonna require every one of us keeping our guard up and doing the right thing.” If that happens, Whitmer is aiming to give Michiganders back an old freedom by Independence Day: The right to a professional haircut. “But we’ve got to follow the data,” she said, urging residents who travel to Ohio for a haircut to make sure they take safety precau­ tions to make sure they don’t bring the virus back. “And if you haven’t resorted to that, Google ‘how to do a haircut,’ or throw your hair in a ponytail or curl it and get through the next couple of weeks and we can resume some of these things.” From J=ld graphics • J-Ad Graphics congratulates all local graduates, including an employee, and children of employees. Hastings High School Hastings High School Abby Larabee Daughter of Jason & Carrie Larabee Blake Williams Martin Public Schools Son of Joe & Carrie Williams Hastings High School Savanah KaecheL Daughter of Camilla Herbert & Lyle Kaechele ■ Michigan State University Markus Livingston Son of Todd & Monica Livingston BU Graduating seniors parade through downtown Middleville The sides of Main Street in downtown Middleville are filled with well-wishers as members of the Thornapple Kellogg High School graduating class of 2020 parade down Main Street Friday evening. The line of vehicles rolled from Eagle Drive near Bradford White Corporation, down Grand Rapids Street and then Main Street with onlookers cheering the graduates on from one end of the route to the other. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Rebecca Maurer Daughter of I jbS ! Tom & Kathy Maurer y| 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9554 pB V. 269.945.9 J �Page 4 — Thursday, June 4, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Astronauts, riots and pandemics: 2020 vs. 1969 Paul G. Kengor In July 1969, three American astronauts landed on the moon. It wasn’t just a great technical triumph. It was a much-needed respite amid social and political chaos. America was already beset by Vietnam and civil rights struggles. That summer of 1969, things got worse. The nation was shocked by news of a riot after a confronta­ tion between gay rights activists and police outside the Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village June 28. Then came news of the drowning of Mary Jo Kopechne in a fatal vehicle accident by an intoxicated Senator Ted Kennedy in Chappaquiddick, Mass., late-night July 18-19. August brought word of the hideous Manson “Family” murders of pregnant actress Sharon Tate and others in a brutal attack the night of Aug. 9-10. A week later came the spectacle of Woodstock, where a half million gathered in rural New York in an unprecedented display of rock ‘n’ roll, drugs, and hedonism. And still more was stirring beneath gather­ ing storm clouds. The National Convention for Students for a Democratic Society opened June 18, 1969, at the Chicago Coliseum on South Wabash, just down the street from police headquarters, home of the so-called “pigs” with whom the radical Weathermen prepared for battle. A mighty clash ultimately erupted in October in what became known as the Days of Rage. The organized riot com­ menced Oct. 5, 1969, when the “flower chil­ dren” dynamited the statue commemorating Chicago police killed in the 1886 Haymarket Riot. As far as the protesters were concerned, these men were not Chicago’s finest, but jackbooted swine. Cops were bad. Violent clashes with more than 1.000 policemen ensued. Americans watched on their televi­ Did you sions in horror. Adding fuel to the fire, not only was there social and political chaos in 1969, but even a pandemic afoot. A malicious virus emanated from Asia. Known as the Hong Kong Flu, technically called H3N2, it killed several million worldwide, including over 100,000 in America — a death toll chillingly similar to COVID-19. It was brutal on the respirato­ ry system. And thus, amid the turmoil, the moon landing on July 20 by the Apollo 11 crew of Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins was a wonderful respite. The whole of humanity watched with admiration and appreciation. All of which seems very appropriate and very ironic context, given current events. Once again, America has boldly gone forth with another historic space mission. In Florida, SpaceX lifted into orbit, heralding a new era. Here was a private company send­ ing astronauts into orbit, almost a decade after the shelving of the space shuttle pro­ gram. Appropriately, the two astronauts shot off from the same Florida launchpad that had served the Apollo missions. This time, how­ ever, resurrecting the program was not the broke federal government, but a private com­ pany called SpaceX, founded by billionaire Elon Musk. The impressive partnership between NASA and the private company breaks new ground in many ways. President Trump, who rightly called the feat “an inspi­ ration for our country,” noted that the launch “makes clear the commercial space industry is the future.” Sights are literally now set on Mars. Of course, this launch in 2020, like that in 1969, likewise occurs during a time of social-political chaos and pandemic, with cities smoldering in protest over the police killing of George Floyd, with demonstrators masking up as CO VID-19 continues its mor­ bid march. The disease has robbed the lives more than 100,000 in America alone. With such bad news, the SpaceX launch should have been a welcome respite. And yet, unlike July 1969, this seems to have elicited comparatively little coverage. Sure, this launch wasn’t as historic as July 1969. Apollo 11 is hard to surpass. What’s striking, however, is how little attention SpaceX seemed to receive. You could’ve easily missed it. This launch is likewise historic, particular­ ly for the horizons that can literally open up. Nonetheless, those hopes and dreams were overshadowed by the protests and by COVID-19. That’s too bad. This should’ve been a moment of unity during a time of crisis. Today, it seems, all news is political news, or bad news. Well, here was some good news for a change: The SpaceX launch says some­ thing promising about human achievement amid trial, about our humanity rising above our sinfulness. And yet, have we paused to recognize that? I think not. And that, too, seems a sign of our sinfulness. The world is on fire in 2020. It was in 1969 as well. It’s easy to focus on the nega­ tive. And we should rightly call out injustice. But we should also pause to reflect on what is good. Dr. Paul Kengor is professor of political science and chief academic fellow of the Institute for Faith and Freedom at Grove City College in Grove City, Pa. see? Marking the day the Union was saved May 30 is a special date for the country - and the descendants of those who fought to preserve the Union during the Civil War, 1861-1865, make sure to mark that milestone every year. This year, wth appropriate social distancing and personal protective equipment for those who required it, Gen. Benjamin Pritchard, Camp 20, Department of Michigan, Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War hosted a small Memorial Day ceremony that took place outside at the Riverside Cemetery in Kalamazoo at the Civil War monument. It was the 36th observation of that date in history when the Union was preserved. Gary L. Gibson, Grand Army of the Republic records officer, and the secretary and historian for the Sons of the Union Veterans of the Civil War, grew up in Barry County and graduated from Hastings High School. He is the son of Hubert and Evelyn Gibson, who also grew up in Barry County. He is shown here making some remarks during the program. Do you remember? Visiting a new school Banner June 7, 1962 Kiwanis helps again — Members of the Hastings Kiwanis Club, who sponsor many projects for community betterment, have given a big assist to the new Barry County Special Education school by purchasing about $500 worth of special furniture for use by the children who attend the new school near the Medical Facility southeast of Hastings on M-79. Recently, Kiwanians inspected the school and the furniture. Pictured here during that trip are Kiwanis members (standing, from left) Thomas Stebbins, Dr. Norbert Schowalter, Robert Sherwood, Wade Shook and Kiwanis President Leo Barth. With them is Mrs. Lorraine Rogers of Route 2 Clarksville, a teacher and director of the school. [The children were not identified] mion Today’s actions are tomorrow’s history We live in momentous times. A deadly pandemic engulfing the world and civil unrest sweeping through our streets will certainly be a major part of future history books. More than that, though, I think everyone can feel it: This is one of those rare, impactful times when lives will be changed forever. It’s a time that will affect the lives of future generations, too, even though we may not be here to explain these current events. Take 9/11, for example. Because of what happened that tragic day in 2001 when terrorists destroyed the World Trade Center in New York City at a cost of 2,996 lives, our government established the Department of Homeland Security in an effort to protect us from further attacks. The agency added Transportation Security Administration checkpoints at all airports with defined rules on what airline travelers may take on airplanes. Homeland Security also has increased government surveillance across the country. For most of us, the horror of 9/11 has faded in our memories. For anyone under age 22, that tragedy isn’t even remembered, but the lingering effects are still with us. We had our freedoms reduced due to those restrictions on our lives. Today’s CO VID-19 pandemic is another one of those life-altering events. We’ve had to adjust our routines. Behavioral guidelines are changing the way we shop, how we get together in our communities, and even the ways we attend church. Some of the pandemic’s effects may not linger as long, but some adjustments will end up creating lifetime memories. Think about all the graduating seniors and the special events the finals days of school, the awards ceremonies, parties and the big day - graduation. Even though many schools across the county are doing their best to plan some kind of graduation event, it will never be what these students expected. Those are lingering effects. And how about the birthdays, anniversaries, family reunions and all the special events we hold so dear that have been put off due to the threat of the coronavirus spreading if we get together? Even though there still may be time for such events in the future, the family memories that would have happened were taken away by an invisible enemy. Even funerals - or the lack of them because we endanger each other in getting together - become a casualty of our war against a virus. The loss of a family member or friend is hard enough without the hurt of being forbidden to hold a ceremony honoring their life and be comforted by loved ones. It’s hard to calculate the depth of the damage done to our families and our general well-being. The other day I heard of a family who can’t visit with their 91-year-old father because he lives in a senior home that is guarding against the virus. At that age, every day is precious to a family. To lose someone at this time without even being able to say goodbye is a lingering effect of a tragedy we’ll not soon forget. Even future generations of the families making that sacrifice today will be affected by these stories, which likely will be handed down. Another lingering effect I wonder and worry about is the deep division the virus has caused, both politically and in the willingness of groups to alter their ways of life to protect others. I think the effect of the pandemic has had some bearing on the riots we’re experiencing across the country. For months now, we’ve been locked up in our homes and forced to change our daily routines. Our jobs have been furloughed or eliminated and we’re not allowed to do even the simplest things, such as get a haircut, eat at a local restaurant or shop at our favorite stores. Even worse, these pastimes seem insignificant to some of our elected officials, while, to citizens, these activities can make a difference in our outlook and the quality of our lives. Suddenly, all of that was overshadowed by an arrest last week that ended in the brutal death of George Floyd at the hands of some Minneapolis policemen. And what had begun as peaceful protests across the country over Floyd’s death turned into violence and destruction that has ravaged cities across the country. It became a level of violence not seen in America since the late 1960s when riots threatened cities across the nation. Even though this certainly wasn’t the first time in recent history that the death of a black man in a confrontation with police has outraged citizens, it came after we’d been living under stay-at-home orders for nearly three months. So, when news broke of Floyd’s death, peaceful protests quickly turned to violence. Within hours, we found out that Minneapolis officer Derek Chauvin had been involved in another fatal incident. Chauvin’s use-of-force history lists 17 complaints during his nearly two decades of service with the department. Complaints against Chauvin ranged from relatively benign issues, such as showing up late for duty, to more severe offenses of using excessive force and even death. Apparently, many of the complaints against Chauvin were closed without disciplinary action. The immediate lingering effects from when Chauvin went too far was the rage that set off the riots in cities across the country, even in Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo. Floyd’s death is tragic, but the destruction of neighborhoods, ransacking businesses and possibly causing more death along the way is not going to resolve the problem that has plagued this country since its beginnings. The long-term lingering effects of this tragedy could be the cities and businesses that never recover to full financial health. Our inner cities may bear witness of the destruction that occurred this week many years into the future. The City of Detroit still wears the scars of the deadly insurrection that took place in the streets there in 1967. Even worse will be the lingering effects of still not curing this country’s racial cancer if we keep shifting blame to who is responsible for the violence and not developing specific steps to real change. “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,” civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said. King believed that “the ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” Our leaders must find a way to work together in quelling the riots and mass destruction, or the lingering effects could divide us even more. Our values are under attack, so we must work together to find the kinds of solutions to which King dedicated his life. His nonviolent approach is what eventually produced the legislative results in the form of historic Civil Rights and Voting Rights acts. It’s time for us to move forward and get back to some semblance of normal life, otherwise the threats will continue to grow, not only to mental strain, but to our country’s economic well-being. We’re already losing chances to move forward; we’re already squandering opportunities in a moment of time in which we can truly change society. Saturday I watched the launch of SpaceX’s Falcon 9 from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. It reminded me of another flight when Alan Shepard paved the way for America’s journey to the moon. It was nearly 60 years ago that Shepard became the first American in space when the Freedom 7 spacecraft blasted off from Cape Canaveral, Fla., May 5, 1961. It was the beginning of the space race that, just a few years later, made it possible for Commander Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin to land on the moon July 20, 1969. The technological advances and positive lingering effects we’ve achieved from space exploration - in communication and medical advances alone - have changed our lives for the better. But it’s sad to think that the significance, and even just awareness, of Saturday’s launch was lost to many amid the distraction of the riots that broke out in cities across the country. Saturday’s space launch was a great example of what private enterprise and government can accomplish when they work together to benefit our nation. That’s a mission that benefits all. And all must resolve to use the same cooperation to solve the two monumental challenges facing us today: Defeating a deadly pandemic and closing the racial divide. Let’s work to change negative lingering effects into opportunities to change society. Let’s work, at the same time, to focus on the positive lingering effects events like Saturday’s launch will provide all mankind. Now that’s the kind of history book I want future generations to read. Fred Jacobs, CEO, J-Ad Graphics Inc. Even worse will be the lingering effects of still not curing this country’s racial cancer if we keep shifting blame to who is responsible for the violence and not developing specific steps to real change. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 4, 2020 — Page 5 It’s about avoiding the truth, honest! Dar Leaf is no Rosa Parks To the editor: In light of recent events, where we are now discussing white supremacy and an abuse of power among police forces, I think it is only appropriate that we also examine abuse of power within our own county. In the last month, our sheriff, Dar Leaf, has made a national voice for himself, publicly displaying an abuse of his own power. About a month ago, Dar was given a national plat­ form on Fox News where he said that he has directed his officers to ignore Gov. Whitmer’s executive orders. Executive orders, I’ll remind you, are laws. Where I understand using dis­ cretion when enforcing laws, by publicly saying he has no plans to enforce these orders, he has thus encouraged Barry County resi­ dents to break state law. If the sheriff isn’t going to enforce the law, why should we listen to the law anyway? Dar can say these orders are unconstitutional all he wants, but he also has failed to cite any part of the Constitution which they violate. It’s also not up to sheriffs to determine what is constitutional and what isn’t, that power is left to the courts, which have ruled in Whitmer’s favor in every law­ suit thus far. Encouraging law-breaking as a sheriff is a severe abuse of power. Dar Leaf didn’t stop there, though. He then went on to headline a so-called “patriot rally,” in protest of the governor’s orders at Rosa Parks Circle. While there, Dar, in front of a Caucasian audience, compared a white barber to Rosa Parks. He also mentioned how per­ haps things would have been different had a (white savior) deputy let Rosa Parks sit wher­ ever she wanted to on the bus. Such com­ ments are insulting to the memory of an iconic civil rights hero who fought for some­ thing far more important than getting a hair­ cut. Rosa Parks fought for civil rights; Dar Leaf is fighting precautions made for public safety. Keeping Barry County residents safe should be the sheriff’s No. 1 priority. And while Dar goes waltzing around thinking of himself as the “New Rosa Parks,” let’s remember that African-Americans are disproportionately at higher risk of being infected by COVID-19, and Dar doesn’t care about following safety measures that will help keep them safe. Dar Leaf is no Rosa Parks. And I don’t think it has gone unnoticed that Sheriff Leaf is quick to make privileged white people feel like heroes. Barry County deserves better. Cody J. Hayes, Thomapple Township (Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; U.S. mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. To the editor: Prevarication. Could this be the cause of the many problems in our nation and the world today? Prevarication. Am I committing it now in my letter to the editor? I hope not. But some will say I am. But, then, they also may be committing it in their letters to the editor. Most unintentionally, of course. Some intentionally. It’s hard not to. Perhaps impos­ sible. In fact, I am. In this letter. Prevarication. It has more than one mean­ ing. I’m referring to just one of the many meanings, of course. Well, perhaps more than one, but not all. Not the one that’s obvious to most people. But the other meanings. Prevarication. What am I referring to? Look it up for yourself. Then you will know and then you can draw your own con­ clusions whether or not I make a good point. If you don’t look up this word, you will not know. But, if you do look up this word, you will perhaps know what point I’m making or you will draw your own conclusions about this word in respect to the nation’s and the world’s leaders, the media and others. Not all, of course. But some. Too many, really. Your turn. Stephen Williams, Hastings Summer reading program underway at Hastings library Hastings Public Library may still be closed but staff excitement for reopening is spilling into a new summer reading challenge for 2020. The reading program, which began June 1, is open to everyone, including young children, teens and adults. A library card is not required to participate. The library’s summer reading program has gone digital this year, with reading and activ­ ity challenges on the Beanstack App available on iPhone or Android devices, as well as on the library’s Beanstack website, hastingspubliclibrary .beanstack .org. With Beanstack, participants will be able to track reading, complete activities and earn prizes. Beanstack is made available through donations from Hastings Mutual Insurance Co., Joe and Diane Babiak and Friends of Hastings Public Library. Reading and activity challenges are avail­ able for readers of all ages. The more partici­ pants read and do, the more digital badges they’ll earn, awards they’ll receive, and draw­ ing tickets they’ll get for a chance to win baskets and other prizes. Participating adults will have the opportu­ nity to win a new Android tablet or gift cards for downtown Hastings businesses. Special donations were made to the summer reading challenge by Friends members and other library supporters wanting to support local businesses. The challenge runs through Aug. 22. For those who would like them, paper reading logs can be printed from the library’s website, hastingspubliclibrary.org/kids-teens/summer-reading/summer-reading, or are available inside the lobby on the north side of the build­ ing. Once the library is permitted to open, read­ ing logs can be picked up at the drive-through window. Other library materials will be avail­ able to check out at that time. New this year is the “Does Your School Have the Most Readers” challenge. This chal­ lenge is between students at Central, Northeastern, Star and Southeastern elemen­ tary schools in Hastings. They will be com­ peting to see which school has the highest percentage of students who complete the summer reading challenge. The winning school’s students get to vote for the reward they would like their school to receive, and the students who helped win the challenge will get a pizza party. The party will be spon­ sored by Thomapple Credit Union. More information is available via email to staff@hastingspubliclibrary.org. Family and pets OK after Lake Odessa fire Taylor Owens Staff Writer After a fire destroyed her family’s house and garage, Jan Jackson said the family has found comfort that their pets are safe. Jackson, her husband and their 19-year-old son were inside their home at the comer of Durkee Street and Jordan Lake Highway when the fire started around 9 p.m. Saturday night. She heard the air compressor running in the garage for some time, and said it was starting to get annoying. “I went out to turn it off,” Jackson said, “but there was no turning it off.” She could see a fire inside the garage, and ran to tell her family so they could get outside. Her son got their two dogs out, but two cats were still inside the house. The first fire department arrived in about 20 minutes, though Jackson said “it felt like five hours” at the time. By the time the department, arrived, the garage was engulfed. The house, to which it is attached, had flames going up the side and to the roof. Overall, five departments battled the fire, but Jackson said both structures are a total loss. Jackson said she was relived her family and dogs were able to get out, but they were wor­ ried about the cats. The family found them inside, and they were still OK. One was in a bedroom, and they found the other in the basement late Sunday night. “That was like the frosting on the cake,” Jackson said. “That was a huge relief ... just knowing that we weren’t bad pet parents.” Even some of the family’s fish were still alive inside their aquarium. A cause of the fire has not been determined, though an investigator told Jackson it may have been faulty wiring. The family is living in a hotel, and has received support from the Red Cross, friends, neighbors and churches, who provided food, clothing and gift cards. Jackson said thinking about the support her family has received makes her head spin. Both the house and garage were declared a total loss. (Photos provided) U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Gary Peters, Democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510­ 2202, phone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room 720, 110 Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 233­ 9150. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings BhUUCT Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 News and press releases: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com Frederic Jacobs Publisher & CEO Hank Schuuring CFO AT RIGHT: Firefighters try to save the Jackson residence in Lake Odessa Saturday night. The Hastings Hastings: One Stop Shop (Phillips 66) (M-43 North) Superette Family Fare Middleville: Speedway Middleville Marketplace Greg’s Get-lt-N-Go Middleville Johnny's Tom's Market Gun Lake: Sam's Gourmet Foods The Dock Store • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The General Store Marathon Mega Bev Penn-Nook Gift Shop Subscription Rates: $45 per year in Barry County • NEWSROOM• Rebecca Pierce (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer (Sports Editor) Greg Chandler Taylor Owens $50 per year in adjoining counties $55 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box 188 Hastings, Ml 49058-0188 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, Ml 49058 ANNER Area Locations to purchase the Hastings Banner! Hastings Johnny's Scott Ommen Ty Greenfield Mike Gilmore Colleen Egleston Jennie Yonker Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 Hastings Pharmacy Phillips 66 Gas Station (W. State St.) Phillips 66 Gas Station (M-37 West) Family Fare Gas Station Walgreens Pine Lake: Doster Country Store Prairieville: Prairieville Fast Stop Orangeville: Orangeville Fast Stop Woodland: Woodland Express Freeport: L&J’s Cloverdale: Cloverdale General Brown’s Cedar Creek Grocery Nashville: Trading Post Little’s Country Store Nashville Johnny's MV Pharmacy Nashville C Store Carl’s Delton: Family Fare Delton Johnny's Banfield: Banfield General Store Dowling: Goldsworthys Dowling General Store Lake Odessa: Lake-O-Express Lake-O-Mart Lake Odessa Johnny's Carls Shelbyville: Town & Country �Page 6 — Thursday, June 4, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Theodore Roosevelt McKelvey Theodore Roosevelt “Ted” McKelvey’s 90 years with us came to an end on May 28, 2020. He was bom on April 10, 1930, the youngest of 10 children, to Harry and Estella (Harding) McKelvey. He attended Moore School during his elementary grades and graduated from Hastings High School in 1948. While Ted was in seventh grade, he met a new student, Clara Spaulding, whose family had recently moved to the neighborhood. He was only 12 years old when he gave her the first of what became almost 80 years of Valentines cards. Clara still has that first valentine. Ted married the love of his life on November 11,1949. After graduating high school, Ted took over the family farm in Maple Grove Township and he and Clara raised four daughters. Although farming was his primary vocation, philanthropy was a close second. He served on many boards, including as president of the Moore School Board, and supervisor and assessor of Maple Grove Township. In 1982, Ted was elected to the Barry County Board of Commissioners, serving ten years with the last five as Chairman. Ted was instrumental in bringing the E-911 Central Dispatch system to Barry County and spearheaded the effort to restore the historic courthouse. When he retired from the Board of Commissioners in 1992, Hastings Mayor Mary Lou Grey declared it “Ted McKelvey Day” in recognition of all that he had done for the area. Ted remained on the Barry County Road Commission Board for several years and was a founding member of the Charlton Park Village Foundation Board from 1988 to 2009. Ted farmed his entire life. He was joined on the farm by his son-in-law, Steve Soya, in 1980 and the operation grew to 1,100 acres. Ted eventually eased into semi-retirement on the farm, as well as in his public life, so he and Clara could spend winters in Florida and to have time for golf and hunting. But he didn’t slow down much. A hard worker all his life, Ted continued to maintain the farmland, even as age began to catch up with him. At age 88, he could be seen driving his Gator with his chain saw in back, surveying the fields and trimming trees along the fence rows. Ted was known as someone who would always lend a hand, a piece of advice, or a tool when needed. He is remembered for being a friendly, kind and generous man with a wonderful sense of humor. Ted was a fixture at the Charlton Park tractor shows for over 45 years. His love of John Deere tractors must have started early because he bought his first tractoi jn 1948 when he took over the farm, and continued to own that tractor until he died. His. ollection of tractors grew over the years, and one of the saddest days of his life may have been in 1995 when the historic barn built by his grandfather was struck by lightening and burned to the ground, with 16 of his antique tractors inside. Ted attended the Delton Seventh Day Adventist Church. Ted is survived by his wife of 70 years, Clara, and their daughters, Teddie (Steve) Soya, Peggy (Bryan) McKelvey, Jan McKelvey, Julie (James) Shreeve; sister, Margaret Wilson, and brother-in-law, Robert Spaulding. He is also survived by seven grandchildren: Eric (Todd) Soya, Martha (Justin) Ports, Andy (Ron) Soya, Libby (Dan) Bonnell, Nolan (Jessica) Shreeve, Matt Gibbons, and Magee (Justin) Shreeve, six great-grandchildren, and by many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, LeRoy (Ilah) McKelvey, Clarence (Lillian) McKelvey, Isabella (Donald) Bensinger, Marguerite (Harold) Davis, James (Leone) McKelvey, Art (Joyce) McKelvey, Marie (Robert) Walters, and Laura (Lawrence) Keller; brother-in-law, Arnold Wilson, and son-in-law, Roy Goforth. The family wishes to thank the staff at Woodlawn Meadows Memory Care for the wonderful care and support they provided to Ted over the last year. While living at Woodlawn Meadows, Ted was able to celebrate his 89th birthday with family members, and also his and Clara’s 70th wedding anniversary. Because of the visitor’s ban due to the coronavirus, Ted’s 90th birthday was quietly celebrated at Woodlawn Meadows with residents and staff. He enjoyed the many cards and letters he received immensely. Memorial contributions can be made to Fresh Food Initiative through the Barry County United Way or your local food bank. Cremation has taken place and the cremains will be interred at Wilcox Cemetery. A memorial service is being planned for 3 p.m., August 22, at the Green Street Church in Hastings. Condolences may be left for the family at www.MichiganCremation.com. Also, the family asks you to share memories or stories about .Ted at McKelveyMemories® gmail. com. Worship Together ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 805 S. Jefferson. 269-945-4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip. Mass 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Mass 8 and 11 a.m. Sunday. 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30-8 p.m., AWANA (Children Kindergarten-5th Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948­ 8004 for information. 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel­ chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 765, (corner of Milo Rd. &S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11:30am, Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 to 7:30 pm. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616-690-8609. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of Who jesus Is To The World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy., P.O. Box 8, Hastings. Telephone 269­ 945-9121. Email hastfmc@ gmail.com. Website: www.hastingsfreemethodist.com. Pastor Brian Teed, Student Ministries Director, Emma Miller, Wor­ ship Director, Martha Stoetzel. Worship with us Sunday, June 7 online service only. June 14 - 10:30 a.m. Outdoor service behind the church. For more information please contact the church or follow us on face book. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: H HASTINGS Fiberglass products 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 A«MI1E®W8F HotUneM&Eqiiipnieat 1301W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 James W. Humphrey Joan Lenora Haywood Egbert Keizer James William Humphrey, age 99, of Delton, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2020 at Woodlawn Meadows. Jim was bom on December 18, 1920 in Hastings, the son of George and Marcella (Daley) Humphrey. Jim farmed with his father before being drafted into the United States Army in June of 1942. He graduated officer school as a 2nd Lieutenant, was an artillery training officer and became a company commander. He activated and commanded a heavy maintenance company in Camp McCoy where he met his wife, Anne (Nicksic) Humphrey, who survives. He served in the European Theatre during World War II, before being honorably discharged with a Captain’s rating. Jim was very proud of his military service. He was employed in the engineering department at Clark Equipment Company for 22 years before retiring. Jim served as a member of the Barry County Planning and Zoning Commission serving as chairman for three years, board member of Charlton Park. He was chairman of the church council at St. Ambrose Catholic Church and was very active in the parish with the food bank and blood drives. Jim was a member of DAV, and first lifetime member of Delton VFW Post 422. Jim loved farming and building houses for his family. Jim is survived by his wife of 75 years, Anne Humphrey; children, Karri (Thomas) Wood, Stephen Humphrey, Jeanne (Skip) Burger, and Bift- (Mary) Humphrey; lOgrandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; two great great grandchildren, siblings, Henry (Aline) Humphrey, Agnes (Ron Henkel) Rein, Edna Corrigan, Grace (Jack) Newbecker; special cousin, Hosea Humphrey; and several nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his parents; daughter-in-law, Ruthann Humphrey; siblings, Fran (Art) Richards, Robert (Velma) Humphrey, Phillip Humphrey, George (Anne) Humphrey, Mary Williams; brothers-in-law, Dick Corrigan and Bob Rein. Jim’s family will receive friends on Tuesday, June 9, 2020, 4 to 8 p.m. at the Williams-Gores Funeral Home where the Rosary will be prayed at 7:30 p.m.. In accordance with the executive order, please practice social distancing and no more than 10 people will be allowed in the building at one time. Private Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Burial will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery. Memorial contributions to St. Ambrose Catholic Church or a veteran’s organization of one’s choice will be appreciated. The family would like to extend special thanks to the staff at Woodlawn Meadows for their loving care of Jim. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral. com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Jim’s family. Joan Lenora Haywood was not shy about sharing her thoughts on how things should be. “Don (Joan’s husband) always said that if there is ever a job opening for a professional opinion giver, I dam well better apply,” she was fond of saying. A few days after saying she was ready to be reunited with her late husband and son, Joan passed away Monday, June 1,2020 at age 91. The family will host a celebration of Joan’s life later this summer. Bom March 24, 1929, in Hastings, Joan attended Hastings High School and married the love of her life on April 3, 1949, and raised two sons. The couple proved to be a dynamic duo, working together as farmers, at E.W. Bliss and later launched River Bend Golf Course and River Bend Travel Agency. In retirement, whether spending winters in Florida or summers in Hastings, they were known for everything from small intimate card games to throwing elaborate events and celebrations. Joan enjoyed flowers and music, often loudly blasting Broadway musicals while cleaning. She also loved to dance to Tina Turner’s rendition of “Proud Mary.” And while she would share opinions on everything from politics and relationships to hair styles and her retirement community’s movie selections, she had a gift for engaging in warm and meaningful conversations and making others feel special, especially her family. A few years after Don’s death in 2008, Joan moved to Sentinel Pointe in Grand Rapids where she continued to share opinions and laughs with friends until her passing. Joan is survived by her son, Martin (Connie) Haywood, of Hastings; grandchildren, Jeff (Jennifer) Haywood and Sabrina (Matt) Christy, and five great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by husband, Don; son, Don Haywood Jr.; her siblings, John Hewitt, LeRoy Hewitt, Marian McMillen, and parents, John and Olive Hewitt. The family asks that donations be made in Joan’s honor to Hastings First Methodist Church or Wounded Warriors and dancing in Joan’s honor while listening to this: https:// tinyurl.com/joandance. To leave online condolences visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. Egbert (Bert) Keizer, age 75, left his residence for Heaven May 28,2020. He was born January 6, 1945, the son of Aaldert and Clara (DeBoer) Keizer. Bert’s family moved to Grand Rapids from the Netherlands when he was four years old and later moved to Hastings. Bert became a Christ follower as a young boy. He later served at First Baptist Church of Hastings as a board member, Junior Church teacher and in the church choir. He graduated from Hastings High School in 1963 and then later entered the U.S. Army serving from 1965 through 1968, finishing in the reserves for the four years to follow. Bert married Darlene Tobias on September 15,1967. He started Keizer Electric in 1967 and worked in the trade for well over 50 years, into the spring of 2020. He loved to sail, golf and cut wood. His favorite times were spent with family on yearly vacations to Florida and South Haven. Surviving is his wife, Darlene; three sons, Chris and Shannon Keizer of Sevierville, TN, Chad and Sarah Keizer of Hastings, Craig and Amy Keizer of Zeeland. Grandchildren include Cole and Harley Keizer, Kendall and Sakaylea Sanders, Christien, Logan and Clara Keizer. Great­ Grandchildren include Aiden Keizer. Surviving in-laws include Larry and Linda Brovont of Portage, Terry and Marilyn Dale of Marshall, Steve and Jody Felder of Mt. Clare, WV and Rod and Pat Ward of Hastings. Also surviving are numerous nieces, nephews and children thereof. Bert was preceded in death by his parents Aaldert and Clara Keizer and sister, Edith Ward. The family had a gravesite service and a life celebration service will follow at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions be made to: Spectrum Health Hospice 750 Fuller; Grand Rapids, MI 49505. Due to the Michigan Governor’s Executive Order limiting gatherings, a celebration of life service for Egbert will be scheduled at a later date. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. Give a memorial THAT CAN GO ON FOREVER... Ask your funeral director for more information, on the Barry Community Foundation or call the Barry Community Foundation at (269) 945-0526. OPEN Blood drive in Hastings tomorrow Officials from Versiti Blood Center of Michigan, formerly Michigan Blood, are encouraging residents to make an appoint­ ment to donate life-saving blood in June. All blood types are needed, especially O-negative, which is the universal blood type given to patients in emergency situations and those undergoing surgery. Staff will be at Spectrum Health Pennock, 1009 W. Green St., Hastings, Friday, June 4, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Donating blood takes about an hour. Anyone age 17 or older in good health who meets eligibility requirements is encouraged to give. Parental consent is required for donors age 16 to donate blood. Donors should bring a photo ID that includes their birth date. Appointments are encouraged but walk-ins are welcome. Appointment to donate blood may be made by calling 866-642-5663 or visiting versiti.org/Michigan. Monday-Saturday 10 am-3 pm Thankjou forjour patience Laundry & Dry Cleaning Services Tray Tor Our Nation q3‘ QUESTIONS: ASK US... 218 E. State St., Hastings 945-9673 OPEN: Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 5 „ S <? Hulst Cleaners Pick-Up Stat/on |_____ J /*** -<"0 'W "R * Traditional and Cremation Services • Pre-Planning Services • Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible HI Serving All Faiths Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted OV- M-l X X Owner/Manage’r 328 8. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 269-945-3252 • www.girrbachfuneralhome.net Family Owned and Operated owner Ein^ tL Serving Hastings. Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 50 years �Banner -• Thursday. June 4. 2020 -- Page 7 Th*’ Occasionally, if we lacked line space, some thing- were hung to dry on nearby fences or bushes. There was no permanent-pres*; clothing or bedding, so when the clothes were dried, everything was sprinkled and rolled up to darnjK-n it evenly before the long task of ironing was begun. For a large family, this was an all-day task, done with sad irons, which were heated irons pointed al both ends with removable handle-,. The irons were fir.t heated on the kitchen stove and then the handle clamped on the top of the hot iron, and the tedious task was begun. Our first washing trichinr was a round corrugated wooden tub on legs with gears on the cover that lit into gears on the top of the gyrator. An upright handle on the lop gear was pushed and pulled back and forth by hand tn turn the gyrator. It took a strong ann to operate the washer. Hie next washer we had was run by a gasoline motor, and then finally came the electric washer with an automatic wringer. This was followed by today’s automatic laundry equipment After the sad irons were irons heated by gasoline, followed by electric irons in the mid-1950s. The first electric irons were very heavy, weighing about 12 pounds. These were soon followed by featherweight irons Nearly all of our clothes were homemade on the family sewing machine, a treadle model powered by one foot. This machine is now 93 years old and still in use. Il had many attachments. Mother made our clothes attractive with ruffles and hand embroidery. She made the little boys suits out of the good parts of Father’s worn-out suits. fl look hack at the stories and columns on local history In the Hastings Banner TURNING BflGK THE That was yesterday Farm life Third in a series Fidna Rrchtei । /V/7-2fX)3; wrote about her family and their farm life in Thomapple Township in a series that began in the Oct. 26, 1993. Banner. She was one offour daughters iMinctta, Orpha. iylai, along with two .sons (Otto and Orleyh born to Allan and Ada (Schiefkil. Their farm was at the intersection oj Pannulec and Duncan hake roads. In the first two installments, she told a bit of her lineage, how her family lived through a cold winter after their home was destroyed by fire, making maple syrup, apple butter and about spring animals. She continues here with chores on the farm, such as animal cate, canning and laundry, from the Nov. 2. 1995. Banner. I here were mans different tasks on the farm, and the children were taught to help with chores at an early age. In winter, there were always paths to shovel and a woodbox to be filled to keep the fires burning tor cooking and baking. After school, we would put down hay’ (from the hay mows) for the horses and cows, bring in straw from the straw stack to bed the animal*, clean out the stables and feed the animals and chickens, and gather the eggs. We also were taught to help with light housework and ssiih the dishes. On rainy days, when we couldn’t work er play outside, wc often spent >6me time‘ straightening out bent nails for our father to use in making repairs. Along with learning to do chores came responsibility for the animals and the good* under our care. The learning was sometimes difficult, and the process less than enjoyable, but learn we did. 1 can truthfully say that I am eternally grateful for the lessons I learned as a child. It has been said that children learn best by hands-on experience, and unfortunately tor us. my parents interpreted this to mean their hands on us. Wc sometimes experienced the application of this theory. Bui as when one member of the lx>dy suiters, all members suffer with it. so we found ways to secretly comfort each other. I am convinced that my parents also received quite a fetching up in the teaching process, for what parent does not learn something from his children? Wc were six, with as many different reactions to discipline, which, in all fairness, I must admit, was probably not without some justification. My mother was an excellent financial planner, as well as an excellent cook, and though we were very pt'or. she alway s fed her family well. She baked eight or nine large loaves of bread three times a week, and often made cinnamon rolls, doughnuts, cookies, cakes, pie and other sweets She also made many varieties of candy at Christmas Hine. We ale a lol of homemade soup, Johnny cake, cornmeal mush, and biscuits with syrup or gravy in those days. Breakfast was usually oatmeal or pancakes and syrup, or eggs and bacon for variety. Wc didn’t have orange juice, but had plenty of canned fruit. There were no boxes of exotic cereals in the stores w ith their offers of games and prizes to entice children or to pressure their parents to buy commercial cereals. Crackers came in big wooden barrels and were sold in bulk. Mother could make a nutritious and npfretizing meal out of almost nothing, and wc .never lacked for variety. There were many nut trees on the farm, howc had lots of hickory nuts, walnuts and butternut s for baking, candy-making or just to crack and enjoy on a rainy day. There was no Pepsi, no Coke or other carbonated drinks on grocery store shelves, so my mother often made sassafras tea from the roots of wild sassafras. It tasted like root beer and was very refreshing, especially when yeast was added to give it the fizz. of carbonated beverages. Nearly all our food was grown and processed on the farm. We slaughtered our own animals for meat and tried out (rendered) Allan Bechtel saws a felled tree with a one-man crosscut saw. Wood was essential to the family for cooking, heating the home, and warming water for bathing and laun­ dering. To he continued The Bechtel children, pictured here in 1914 or 1915. include front (from left) Otto. Edna. Orley, (back) Orpha. Minolta and Ila. and pressed our own lard, made and stuffed sausage and head cheese, cured and smoked hams, bacon and dried beef, besides canning large amounts of beef, pork and chicken. I he large gardens furnished us w ith vegetables as well as strawberries.raspberries, blackberries, gooseberries, currants and elderberries along the roadsides or in comers of split-rail fences. Wc canned hundreds of quarts of f ruits and vegetables and always dried peaches, apples and sweet corn. We also made countless jars of jams, jellies and all kinds of preserves, relishes, chili sauce and ketchup. Pickles also were plentiful, made Hom peaches, pears, crabapples, green tomatoes, beets, carrots and string beans, as well as .11 kinds of cucumber pickles, such as dills, sweets and mustard pickles. \ Because we didn’t get to the store often, we sometimes bought groceries from Sears Roebuck or Montgomery Ward T here were things like dried herring and dried prunes and similar products. These came in wooden boxes by freight (rain, and wc drove the horses and wagon into Caledonia, our nearest town, to pick them up. It was an exciting time, almost like Christmas, when we opened the wooden boxes after the supper dishes were done. Wheal was traded at the local feed mill fur barrels of Hour, and sugar was bought in 100pound cloth bags. Eggs were traded for groceries. Wc churned butter for our family and sold butter to the grocery stores. Butler was made in an earthenware dash chum or a wooden barrel churn- It was then worked in a wooden outer bowl with a wooden ladle to remove all of the buttermilk. It was then washed, salted and formed into pats or pul into small earthenware crocks to sell or trade for groceries. In those early days, our houses were not wanned in the morning by the twist of the thermostat. Trees had to be cut down with cross-cut saws and axes and then cut into stove lengths and split into firewood. Fires had to be built in the big round oak stoves or the kitchen ranges. Our first furnace was installed when wc built the new house in 1917. but it was not until we moved into Middleville in 1940 that we had our first oil furnace. There were some problems with this, since the oil line often froze in the winter, leaving us with no heat. This was converted to natural gas in the late 1940s. There were no electric lights, since electricity did not become available in the rural areas until the 1930s. Wc used kerosene lamps, which must be kept filled, and the wicks trimmed daily. The glass chimneys had to be washed since the lamps smoked, and this made the light dim. There w ere no appliances, such as a refrigerator or freezer or vacuum cleaner, no running water and no inside bathrtxmi. Bathtubs and showers were unheard-of luxuries in those days. Bath night bore faint resemblance io today . Water for bathing was pumped by hand and heated in the large copper boiler on top of the kitchen stove. The largest laundry tub was set on the floor in front of the kitchen stove for warmth. T he tub was filled with vvarin water. One by one, the children were put into the water, and Mother gave each of us a bath, scrubbing every grubby knee and elbow until we were squeaky clean, changing the bath water often. I he outside toilet w as built a distance from the house and had three sizes of holes, one for adults, one lor children and one lor tuts. There was no soft bathroom tissue. Various catalogs were used instead There was ih» washing machine, so laundry "as done by !t «ud on a corrugated washboard in a galvanized wushtub. using homemade lyc soap. Later, we could buy Fels Naptha or P&G bar soap. Later, povv dered soap and soap granules were followed by present-day detergents. Water for doing laundry had to be pumped by hand from the well and was very hard, so it was softened with washing soda. The water was heated in a huge copper boiler on lop of the kitchen stove. The laundry process was long and difficult, and the laundry for a family of eight, which was started in early morning, was sometimes not completed until late afternoon. Sheets and pillowcases and other white clothes were first boiled with plenty of soap in the large copper boiler, then washed and bleached. Aprons and dresses were stiffly starched. as were cuffs and collars of men's dress shirts, except the detachable collars and cuffs, which vvefrv made of celluloid. After the overalls and heavy clothes were washed, all were rinsed through two clear rinses and run through a hand-operated wringer and then hung on several long clotheslines to dry. Vikings’ Hall of Fame ceremony moved to 2021 The Greater Lansing Sports Hall of Fame announced that its induction ceremony sched­ uled for July 30 has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. The class 2020 class scheduled to get inducted at the Lansing Center this year, including the 1975 Lakewood state champion varsity boys* basketball team, will be enshrined in 2021. The hall will not select another class for 2021 according to executive director Bob Every. The 2021 class also includes the 1977 DeWitt girls’ basketball team, softball coach Hub Waite,baseball player Wayne Terwilliger, fcRKball/bnsketbalMjaseball player Pau! Stem football coach Pete Schmidt, basketball play­ er Gina Mazzolini. swimmer Denny Hill, pocket billiards player Joseph Farhat, sports broadcaster Dave DeMarco and umpire Perry Costello. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF BARRY INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL DISTRICT PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT THERE WILL BE A PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING THE PROPOSED 2020-2021 BUDGETAT THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD oF EDUCATION OF BARRY INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL DISTRICT: JUNE 9. 2020 ZOOM CONFERENCING _ litirM. u.-Otv, cb.zouni.uw TH 1531i0771 'rwd - V3d DATE OF MEETING I'LAC E OF MEETING MEL I ING ID: 751 3377 0771:PASSOWRD: 9CrXrB; Telephone: I 646-876-9923 HOI K OF MEETING S:0<) AM TELEPHONE NUMBER OF THE SUPERINTENDENT'S OFFICE *269) 915-9545 BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING MINUTES ARE LOCATED AT. A COPY or THE PROPOSED 2020-2021 BIDGI7T INCH DING THE PROPOSED PROPERTY FAX MILLAGE RATE IS AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION DVRINC. NORMAL BUSINESS HOURS AT: B WRY ISD ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE 335 WEST WOODLAWN AVENUE. HASTINGS, MI 49058-1038 BARRY ISD ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE 533 WEST WOODLAWN AVENUE HAS! INGS. Ml 49058-1038 PURPOSE OF MEETING; I. Public discussion on the proposed 2020-2021 budget. The property lax millage rale proposed to be levied to support the proposed hudj’.d will be a subject of this hearing. The Board may not adopt its proposed 2020-2021 budget until after the public hearing. Deb H.ef. Jd. Seen Ury. Barry Intermediate School District Board of Education i(W Delton Kellogg iBarae of the Panthers We are accepting Schools of Choice applications for the 2020-2021 school year beginning June 08,2020 until September 11, 2020. Students residing in contiguous ISD’s are welcome to join our schools. Enrollment is available for all grades K-12 as well as DK Academy. Submit applications to the Central Office 327 N. Grove Street, Delton. MI or drop off at Central Office M-F 7:30 4:00 p.m. You can also visit our website at www.dkschools.org to print an enrollment application. I �Pap" 3 — Thixsday. June 4, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Delton Kellogg Middle School announces honor roll Delton Kellogg Middle School .staff has released its honor roll fur second semester of the 2019 20 schixvl year. Students receiving highest honors earned grade point averages of 3.75 or higher. Students with high honors had grade point averages of 3.5 to 3.749. Students receiving honors earned a grade' {»oint average of 3.0 to 3.49. An asterisk* next to a student s name denote* a 4.0 or above grade point average for ihc semester. ^Doctor UnfvGrso lifih grade Parachutes and dandelion fluff Dr. Universe, How do parachutes work? Lucas. IL Alberta. Canada A leather take* up more space than a penny, ju»t like a person takes up more space with a parachute. With more surface to work against, the air gives a bigger push against gravity’s pull. Dial’s why someone with a parachute falls more slowly than someone without one. Parachutes w ork by creating lots of drag. I hc same idea appears in nature, and can be seen in dandelion seeds, bird wings and more. “Hying squirrels have a skin between their legs that develops like a parachute, Cerulti said. “Instead of the squirrel drop­ ping out of a tree, they can glide.” Every year. Cerruti and the Physics and Astronomy Club test these ideas by drop­ ping pumpkins from the top of a tall build­ ing. "Usually we use parachutes on pump­ kins as a joke,” he said. "We’ll put a very small parachute on, and it doesn’t slow it down very much. But we’ve been doing an egg drop the past couple of years. Using parachutes really does slow down the egg. and it can land safely.” You can try this out yourself at home. Ask an adult to help you find a coffee filter or plastic bag and some string Fry attach­ ing your "parachute” to different small objects: an action figure, pencil or penny. When you drop them, do they slow down? Can y ou help your passenger fall to a soft landing? Try it and see what works. Happy experimenting. De;ir Lucas. . Have you ever blown on a puffy white dandelion? Your breath sends dozens of seed* scattering.. gliding to a soft landing sonic where new. Look closely at one of those seeds, and you’ll see a familiar shape. The tiny passenger (the seed) has a wispy, circular top. which helps it float to its next destination. Parachutes work a lot like dandelion seed* — using the same invisible forces all around us. Nicholas Cerruti, a physics pro­ fessor at Washington State University, helped me learn how. Fhc air around you is packed w ith tiny things called molecules. You can’t see them, but you’re constantly bumping into them. This is true for you. and for every object in motion on Earth. "As an object moves through air, it needs to move the air around it,” Cerruti explained. Imagine you drop a piece of paper. As the paper falls, it strikes air molecules. Molecules bounce off the paper and each other. Bumping together, they produce a force. As the paper falls, air molecules p:»*h against it in the opposite direction. This force slows the paper’s motion. Scientists call this “air resistance” or "drag.” Gravity pulls everything down on Earth: whether it’s a person jumping from Dr. Universe a plane or a paper falling from your hand. But drag works against that pull, slowing it down. Know a kid with a science question? Ask Some objects fall faster than others Dr. Universe. With help front friends at Washington State University, Dr. Universe because they produce less drag. "A classic example is a penny and feath­ is investigating tough and smart questions er.” Cerruti said. “If you drop a penny and from curious kids around the world. Send feather al the same time, the feather will an entail to Dr.Universe@wstt.edit or visit drop at a slower rate.” her website, askdruniverse .com. I Call any time to place your Hastings Banner classified ad 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 Highest honors Audric Adams. Brynlee Babbitt-Smith’, Claire Barker”, Lcvna Barnes’. Ryan Bates4 , Bethany ButchBakerL Madalynn Caldwell. Brooke Campbell ‘. Katelyn Chase*. Hannah Cobum. Kay den Conley. Carter Cooper4. Mikalah Freiberg. Rebecca Froncheck *, Camilo Gonzalez*. Madison Gruber*, Aryanna Hanson*. Alexavier Hasman. Caitlyn Helms. Isaiah Kellogg*. Kristina Koan*. Jollcen Krul*. Landon LaVere-Morris, Wyatt Lester*. Anthony Lorenz. Dorian Marlow4. Grady Matteson*, Hudsyn Mazur*, Jace McPheetcrs*. Blake Mellen*. Mallory Momence. Coni Morris*. Nathan Mosqueda*, Travis Mosqueda*. Riley Perley, Mendan Phillips*, Bailee Pickford. Olivia Post*, Brady Raymond. Lillie Schy, Josie Standlick, Easton Stonebumer*, Jordan Watson, Kaylynn Zwar. High honors Cooper Conrad, Evan Fleser. Fletcher Gordon, Laana Hooker, Aiden Norton, Elhyssa Reynolds. Keith Ryan. Robert Tack, Kendall Wilson. Honors Erica Bceke, Dallas Belka. Allison Davis, SOCIAL Seventh grade Highest honors David Baker-Helms. Isaac Ferris. Teagan Hamlin, Brooke Harsevoort*.Corbin Norton, Madelynn Palmer. John Sinclair*, Gauge Stampfler, Claire Wesolowski . Isabel White* High honors Corban Antolovich. Tristin Boze. Kegan Chappell, Myles Hatton, Johannah Houtkooper. Kylee Kennedy. Jillian Leclercq. Elliott Rogers. Luke VanderwalL Honors Alison Adams, Emily Baker. Eric Belka, Jamie Coburn. Paige Davis. Domnnyck Harmon, Logan Kyser, Lucy Lester, Austyn Lipscomb, Katherine Lundquist, Haydto Miller. Avery Perley, Cooper Sandusky. Kelsey Seagle. Alaina Van Niejenhms. Eighth grade Highest honors Duncan Anderson, Austin Bagley, Avery Barker, Allison Brandli*. Lily Bunday4. Breanna Chandler, Lauren Childs’. Shane Church*, Andrew Diamond*. Paige Elliott*, Joseph Johnson, Josie Jones*, Isaac Keck*, Lillian Lester', Blake Lillibridge*, Scott Mader Jr., Maelca Martin'. Memphis Mazur. Tanner Mellen" , Isabella Morey*, Tori Morns', Abigail Morrison . Collin Muskovin4, Samantha O'Meara'. Lui; Perez, Julianne Peterson4, Teagan Redmondv. Summer Ritchie1', Paytn Robinson". Alyssa Smith,Emily Stoneburner'.CeciliaThunder'. Madelyn Waller*. Luke Watson, May.sse Wicssner. High honors Rhy* Bedford. Evryk Cowles. Izabella Hall. Maoly Herrera-Toscano. Samantha Makowski. Grade Raymond. Lillian Smith, Chad Stophcr. Honors Kaylc Antolovich. Cadence Artis, Parker Bagley, Sarabeth Bceke. Cade Bums. Wyatt Colwell, Adrian DeBoer. Alexis Delaphiano. Emily Gwillim, Kyleigh Hamlin. Jordan Hartman. Cole Lane, Taiyah Mapes. Laurel Phillips. Melanie Smith, Elizabeth Stoneburner. Maverick Thomas. Victoria VanderwalL/Xbbigail Wooden. SECURITY MATTERS Vonda VanTil Public A ffairs Specialist We provide benefits to about one-fifth of the American population and help protect workers, children, people with disabilities, and the elderly. In 2020, wc w ill pay about $ I trillion in Social Security benefits to roughly 65 million people. One of our mast important responsibilities is to protect the hard-earned money you pay into Social Security, which is why we have zero tolerance for fraud. We take fraud claims seriously and investigate them thoroughly. We respond quickly and decisively to prevent and detect fraud. For example, we monitor transactions to detect actions that demonstrate an intent to defraud the American people. Wc will continue to innovate and develop anti­ fraud initiatives because any level of fraud is unacceptable. Recently, we launched a public service announcement as our latest effort to caution you about the ongoing nationwide telephone scam. The video features u message from our commissioner. Andrew Saul. /Mong with our Office of the Inspector General, we continue to receive reports about fraudulent phone calls, text messages and emails from people who falsely claim they are government employees. The scammers play on emotions like fear to convince people to provide personal information or money in cash, wire transfers or gift cards. Fraudsters also email fake documents in attempts to get people to comply with their demands. “I want every American to know that if u suspicious caller states there ik a problem with their Social Security number or account, they should hang up and never give the caller money or personal information. People should then go online to report the scam call to Social Security.” Commissioner Saul said. investments Such scams can be reported online at oig. ssa.gov. Learn how to protect yourself, and report any suspicious calls or emails right away. If you already have been a victim of one of these scams, do not be embarrassed. Instead, report the scam at oigjisa.gov so we can stop these scammers and protect others. Share our new public service announcement video, at youtube.com/socialsecurity. with your friends and family. You also may share our publication. Social Security Protects Your Investment, at ssa.gov/ pubs/EN-05-I0004.pdf. Votidli ' Van "'I'd ’is public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her clo Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids Ml 49525, or via email to vontla.vantil@ssa.gov. Jlake, OdeAAa K. A. MUELLER ACCOUNTING PLUMBING Licensed Master Plumber Licensed Journeyman Plumber ® Sixth grade Highest honors Brayion Brown. Emileigh Chandler, Brooke Childs*, Lily DeVries. Jzabelle Gruber, Keegan Hill, lylcr Howland, Violet Kokx', Jalin Lyons”, Adelynn Stampficr*. Jayla Standlick, Eili Timmerm >;> High honors Kelyn Bedford, David Bergstrom, Carter Brickley, Danielle Fields, Gabriella Gonzalez., Brynnna Lindsey. Nicholas Muday, Sara Reynolds. Austin Shellenbarger, Izzabel Wendland, Allison Wooden, Ava Yarger. Honors Caysen Andersen. Airy anna Antolovich, Douglas Bassett, Reese Bernstein. Matthew Bolthouse. Joseph Brown Jr.. Roman Cleary, Kate Cowles. Ace Drewyor, Sydney Dykstra, Maci Freiberg. Griffyn Harmon, Jadyn Jones, Jordyn Jones, Maggie Martin. Camaron Martinez, Piper McArthur. Abigail McCarty. Vance Peterson, Gabrilc Ramsey. Lil’E Salazar, Raynlin Seagle. Austin Shannon. Report scams and [protect MICHAEL KINNEY 1 Johnnihon Gruoten-Hill. Brook lynn HarveyBozc, Lindon Madden, Kaylc McLellan. Alayna Pahl. Xander Peckham, Beau Spooner. 221 South Jefferson Street New construction, remodel, repair, drain cleaning. BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEATERS Same Day Installation License | «S110376; Office (269) 948-2248 & Insured | Hastings, Michigan (269) 945-3547 , www.kamuelleraccounting.com Mobile (269) 838-5112 SWBCSA Meeting Schedule 2020-2021 CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS Self-Contained Breathing Appartus The City of Hastings is requesting sealed bids for the replacement of Self-Contained Breath­ ing Appartus. The Fire Department is located at 110 E- Mill St., Hastings, Ml 49058. MARCH 17, 2020 6:30 P.M. APRIL 28, 2020 6:30 P.M. MAY 26, 2020 6:30 P.M. JUNE 23, 2020 6:30 P.M. JULY 28, 2020 6:30 P.M. Bid proposal forms and specifications ere available at the address listed below. City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in hid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City's best interest, price and other factors considered. AUGUST 25, 2020 6:30 P.M. SEPTEMBER 22, 2020 6:30 P.M. OCTOBER 27, 2020 6:30 P.M. NOVEMBER 24, 2020 6:30 P.M. JANUARY 26, 2021 6:30 RM. FEBRUARY 25, 2021 6:30 P.M. MARCH 23, 2021 6:30 RM. All meetings located at 11191 S. M43 Delton, Mi 49046 269-623-3401 This notice is posted in compliance with the Open Meeting Act, Public Act 267 of 1976 as amended. All meeting dates and times are subject to change. 14W57 Sealed bids will be received at the 0^ce the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street. Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 9:00 AM on Thursday, June 25. 2020 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. All bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package "Sealed Bid - Fif8 De­ partment Self-Contained Breathing App3ratus- RogerCaris i vu'Sb Fire Ohief A new building is going up on the curve of M-50 across from the Portland Federal Credit Union. This has been the site of used car deal­ erships. and in years past, a lumber yard, a Ford dealership. Schavey’s truss rafters, and several others. Reports arc that a national brand is going to be located here. The large house on the corner of Tupper Lake Street and Washington Boulevard is now sporting a wrap-around deck with a comer gazebo. 'Illis house was the long-time home of the Ferris Lathrop family, but its owner in the 1880s and beyond was one Godfrey Hutchins, who had an 80-acrc farm. Old plat maps show it included a maple tree grove and an apple orchard. Over the years, it sold off acreage for the expansion of Washington Boulevard and later for businesses to the west, such as the livestock auction. In the 1880s, Mr. Hutchins and his wife expanded from a modest house to the present 10-12 room Italianate-siyle home that has some­ times had a rental apartment on its .second floor. Mr. Hutchins was the son of the the second wile oi John Suarthout who had a farm on Bonanza Road. Mr. Swarthout’s daughter was the wile of George Brisbin, who had an 80 acre farm on Tupper Lake Road (hat extended from I’askcr Ro.id to today’s Washington Boulevard. 1 hu*. the three family members, Swaithout, Brisbin and Hutchins had their farms all in it row from north to south. The Brisbin name has been peqieluatcd more than the others because of the Brisbin drain which originated on their farm but now tuns southeasterly through today’s village in the KMX) block of Fourth and runs to Ibppcr Lake. Members of the Clinoid Walter family have been (he last remnant of that extended family to reside here. List week’s item about lhe Morrow funeral needs a correction. The forebear of H. Mor row was Emerson Pull, not Emerson Morrow. Friday night's parade oi .seniors win a huge success, llie parade was led from the fair­ grounds south to M-50 by firetrucks with sirens blaring. The trucks at lhe front and rear of lhe parade were from the four villages that comprise lhe Lakewood district. Cars and pickup trucks were well decorated with many balloons tethered. There were some utility trailers in which (he senior honorees rode. F.ach vehicle carried a large sign indicating lhe name of the senior graduate. Toward the end of the parade, there were several huge green tractors with the teenage boy drivers riding high above lhe spectators One senior later exclaimed that it was fur motv fun than .i traditional graduation would have been — there was no speaker! Teachers were to lw seated in front of the library in lhe I (XX) block of Fourth Avenue. There were many spccta tors all along lhe route. Sunday moniing. members of Central United Melhodisl Church held a parade of their own in honor of their departing pastor, Rev. Dominic Tommy, who stood with bis wife and daughter al the end ot the parsonag® driveway on lower Sixth Avenue. The parade had police escort as far as M-50 where the officer blocked traffic on M-50 so participant could cross the highway with no intvrruptions. i hc congregation had assembled in tl*e church’s parking lol on Third Avenue, wear­ ing face masks of every description. Many parishioner exiled their cars and chatted in the lot while waning for the proces­ sion to begin. Aiicr all. they had not seen each other for more than two months. Many vehi­ cles carried signs with messages for the pas­ tor. Many had balhxms Boating in flie breeze. Iwo members wore their choir robes for (he trip. TTie youngest participant in the parade was 3-month old Jacob Spagnuolo of Vermontville, son ot choir director. Jackie Cunningham Spagnuolo The Tommy s moved Monday to Holland to lx- near one ot their sons. The new paoor. Rev. Vaughn lhur*to:iCox is cxjxxted to anne July i. �TN> Hastings Banner — Riuraday. Juno 4. 2020 — Pago 9 COVID-19 testing starts at facilities in Barry County Rebecca Pierce k’^nn’care^MJit^ starting today. Barry-Eaton District Data “ ,WO 11 Barry County V Health'Officjj ctletk-1 sK*a,lh Departrnen( the plan Jas, announced Thornapple Mni(V »i * °n Wednesday, Haney confirmed that rhe'hedmT «ould be testing tests are voluntary Eaton County ‘ Barry County how many that would be. The gosernors office implemented the .niliattve to tcsl lor the novel coronavirus at skilled nursing sites throughout the state Scnmper said "Since last week. wc have been working w, h them to conduct long-term testing in Eaton County, she told the BEDHD board during ns meeting last Thursday. “Next week uc expect Barry County to be added to this.”’ The criteria specified for the project limited testing to four facilities in Eaton County and two in Barry County - Thomapple Manor and Hastings Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center, Magnumcare of Hastings. W hat this really is emphasizing is testing at our congregate care sites, targeting our skilled nursing facilities first and providing This chart, provided by tho Barry-Eaton District Health ^^ednesday^05 cumu* lalive statistics on COVID-19 cases in the two counties as resources to those facilities to do mass testing of their residents and their employees so that they can get a baseline of where their facility is at with COVID-19,” Scrimger told the Barry County Board of Commissioners at its meeting on May 26. Scrimger said the health department staff is working with lhe National Guard, which will provide lhe supplies and any support needed to accomplish the testing. "The idea is to have this move pretty rapid­ ly through the state,’’ she said. The governor’s office called it "a moonshot testing process,” which has been used in other Financial FOCUS j Provided by the Barry County offices of Edward Jones Member MPC Brandon Wilkins Kevin Beck, aamSO — u 5 Grcc?.?L’ste’1 400 w*staic st« Su|i°B 49053 (269) 948-2003 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945.4702 Sticking to budget can boost your emergency fund During the coronavirus pan­ demic. our health concerns - for ourselves and our loved ones - have been at the top of our minds. But financial wor­ ries have been there, too, both for people whose employment has been affected and for in­ vestors anxious about the vola­ tile financial markets. And one aspect of every individuals total financial picture has be­ come quite clear - the impor­ tance of an emergency fund. Even in normal times, it’s a good idea for you to keep three to six months* worth of living expenses in a liquid, low-risk account Having an emergen­ cy fund available can help you cope with those large, unex­ pected costs, such as a major car repair or a costly medical bill. Furthermore, if jou have an adequate emergenev fund, you won’t have to dip into your long-term investments to pay for .short-term needs. These investment vehicles, such as your IRA and 401 (k). arc de­ signed for your retirement, so lhe more you can leave them intact, lhe more assets you’re likely to have when you retire. And because they arc intended for your retirement, they typi­ cally come with disincentives, including taxes' and penalties. if you do tap into them early. (However, as part of the eco­ nomic stimulus legislation known as the CARES Act. Individuals can now take up to $100,000 from their 401 (k) plans and IRAs without paying the 10% penalty that typically applies to investors younger than 59’A. Jfyou take this type of withdrawal, you have up to three years to pay the taxes and, if you want, replace die funds, beyond die usual caps on annual contributions. Of course, life is expensive, so it’s not always easy 10 put away money* in a fund tint you aren't going to use for your normal cash flow. Tliat's why it's so important to establish a budget and stick to it. When developing such a budget, you may find ways to cut down on your spending, freeing up money that could be used to build y our emergency fund. There are different ways to establish a budget, but they all typically involve identifying your income and expenses and separating y our needs and wants. You can find various online budgeting tools to help you get .started, but, ultimate­ ly, it’s up to you to make your budget work. Nonetheless, you may be pleasantly surprised at how painless it is to follow a budget For example, ifyou’ve budgeted a certain amount for food each month, sou’ll need to avoid going to the grocery* store several times a week, just to pick up "a few things” - because it doesn’t really take that many visits for those few things to add up to hundreds of dollars. You’ll be much better off limiting your trips to die grocery; making a list of die items you’ll need and adher­ ing to these lists. After doing this for a few months, see how much y ou’vc saved - it may be much more titan you'd expect Besides using these savings to strengthen your emergency fund, you could also deploy them inward longer-term in­ vestments designed to help you reach oilier objectives, such as retirement. Saving money is always a good idea, and when you use your savings to build an emer­ gency fund, you can help your­ self prepare for the unexpect­ ed and make progress toward your long-term goals. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC states to refer to antibody testing. But that is not the case with this project. Scrimger said Ihc tests, which arc diagnostic and use a nasal swab, will be voluntary so staff and residents may chixxse not to participate, she said. Jennifer Casarez, a nurse and emergency preparedness coordinator for BEDHD, said a total of I, 227 COVID 10 test kits were requested for Eaton County as a part of the National Guard testing initiative.They did not have lhe number for test kits for Barry County facilities last week. "What we’re really trying to do is get a sense of where these facilities arc at with {exposure to COVID-19.” she said. Haney said their 161-bed sub-acute care facility has 143 residents and employs a stuff of 320. Hastings’ Return to School Task Force is up and running Saviinnh Kacchcle Contributing Writer The Return 1° Scluxd lask Force for the Hastings Area School bystem had its first meeting Wednesday morning jn i|le Hastings Middle School commons area. Attendees had the option to view the meeting via Zoom, to reduce the numbef of people at the school. During the meeting. mtnxluctions were made and participant learned of the three levels, or options, listed in a recent survey taken by parents ol Hastings students in grades K-12. The options included sending students back in the fall, if possible; a blended option, with students learning partly at school and continue online learning for the other half; not returning to school, no matter what; and the fourth was tor those completely undecided. "This is. in general, where I’m finding people are with our parents, even our staff, and students,” Hastings Superintendent Dan Remenap said. A total of 6X1 parents and guardians responded, he said, making an extremely good sample size for the district. Included in the data, were the parents declaring what category they favor. Of the responses, 83.6 percent claimed they would send their kids back to school, if safe; 18.6 percent said they would prefer a blended option of online and classroom schooling, and 8.5 percent said they would not feel comfortable sending their kids back to school in the fall. and more. and more. in the fall. To combat these effects and implement The various committee members. including health professionals, parents. plans for a sate return to the classrooms, teachers, and others, offer a diverse set of various members already began brainstorming opinions and ideas to provide the widest plans. These ideas included sanitation and cleaning schedules for the school, sanitation perspective on the situation. "I think it’s important we have a diversity by the students, and assistance in getting the of thought and opinion on this so we can students back in a routine. Looping, another understand everyone’s concerns so we can way to ease lhe younger students back into address them as we open up in the fall,” school by having lhe students remain with their most recent teachers, also was suggested. Remenap said. Although many ideas were shared, many Remenap said he preferred Category I. challenges are presented with creating plans and not just because he misses the students. "I want you to understand my decision on for returning to school, lb overcome these being a 1 is based on facts and data, not just challenges and develop the safest plans and what Dan Remenap wants because 1 miss the protocols. Remenap has put together kids." he said. subcommittees based on the different Some facts Remenap shared to back his members’ expertise. These subcommittees are decision included a U.S. Centers for Disease to meet and create draft plans and ideas to Control and Prevention statistic that of the share at the next meeting. Remenap explained first 68 .(MX) U.S. deaths from COVID-19, lhe main purpose of the committee as a whole. only 12 have been in children under 14. "We need people to take this on and Remenap noted that the number of cases and spread a positive word, that should be one of deaths have obviously gone up from that our main goals is reassuring our families and statistic. kids that things are going to be fine.” he said. Even with the data included in the first ‘‘Now obviously in doing that, we have to meeting, the committee will be gathering create the steps to ensure that; which is again more facts and statistics on which to base obviously one of our roles, but then wc have their decisions before lhe next meeting. to communicate those things and really follow Also, during the meeting, members through with them.” Following the committee’s separate representing mental health, health care and even students shared lhe effects distance meetings will be the next regular task force learning has on students, such as lack of meeting scheduled for 10 a.m. June 17. motivation, bad work ethic, lack of education, SEASONAL HELP The Barry County Road Commission is hiring for temporary seaspnal gen­ eral laborer positions. Starting hourly pay range will be $11 - $13 per hour, no benefits. Applicant must be at least 18 years of age, have a valid Driver’s Li­ cense, and be able to pass a drug test. Applications can be picked up at the Barry County Road Commission office located at 1725 West M-43 Highway, Hastings between 6:45 AM - 3:15 PM, or on our website at www.barrycrc.org. The Barry County Road Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 141933 City of Hastings See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF BARRY INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL DISTRICT 1HDGETH THF unTlcr THAT THERE WILL BE A PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING THE PROPOSED 2020-2021 GULMt MEETING ()F THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF BARRY INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL DISTRICT: h.00 A..M. HOUK OF MEETING MBEH OF the SUPERINTENDENT S Or 1 ICE teixphone m 045-9515 BOARD OF ^OUCAHON 'MEETING MINUTES ARE IXX.ATED AT. . : BAhKY isd admintviiiativi OFFICE 535 WEST WOODLAWN AVENUE. HASTINGS. Ml 4905Hj0.fo BLWTT°|NanS nUUuM l PROPERTY tax OATl. m ,M LUI.ER AT- * HARRYISD ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE buffu^lil^Tr the . 202a 2O21 The property Ux nilll^c rate propped lo b |njd be a rubRrt of thi. hearing. Ihc Board nuy not Mopt Its propoiU 2020-2021 ■>< EJucuIh.h The Hastings Police Department, an equal opportunity employer, is seeking qualified applicants for a full time Police Officer position. The primary responsibilities of this position include maintaining the high quality of life for all City residents, businesses and visitors. This will be accomplished not only by our proactive approach to enforcing the state laws and city ordinances, but also through our high-quality customer service. Please submit resume and cover letter to Chief iAff pratt 2°1sta*e St. Hastings Ml 49058 or Jpratt^hasttngsmi.org. Resun163 W'11 be accsPted through June 19, pwest wooiown avenue tSsTINGS.MI4905dl0W PURPOSE OF MEETING 1. public duondon Position Available: Police Officer Qualifications: •Must be 21 years of age * Possess an Associates degree * Be MCOL^^ *‘censed or eligible to be licensed * Excellent writing and communication skills * Must PasS an extensive background investiga,lon JUNE 9.2020 ZOOM CONFERENCING: hUp:-/u-‘,‘ivJvha'?'>n)aJ‘j.7515377<j!I71h?>idLYJJ X.bFY!.'Y\,i>JYlZtZ<jl^\kVnA>lL'UJV? MEETING IP; 751 ‘>.177 0771. PAsSOWRD*. 9CrXrR; Telephone: 1 •W6-876-9923 DATE OF .MEETING. PL\CL‘ OF MELTING Thomapple Manor also ha< been accepting patients who aie recox ering from the novel coronavirus for the past two month. Haney said they arc getting one or two referr ds a day. , “So far, we’ve had six admissions mfo our unit.” Haney said. ‘‘Three have recovered and lx-cn discharged.” As of Wednesday, they had four residents in COVID-19 isolation, he said These transfers 10 Thornapple Manor tor rehabilitation are part ol their normal protocol when a patient is no longer contagious, Haney noted. A part of the building with a separate entrance that is isolated from the rest of the facility is being used exclusively for these recovering patients and the staff treating them. 2020. Jeff Pratt »«>>>’ 142097 Chief of Police See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits Barry County Community Mental Health Authority, a progressive provider of Mental Health and Substance Abuse services in Hastings, Michigan is looking for a part-time Accountant to join our administrative team. The ideal applicant will possess a bachelor’s degree in Accounting. Duties include, but are not limited to, payables, journal entries and account reconciliation. Experience with accounts payable and Solomon software is a plus. Check us out at www.barrycountyrecovery. com. Email jobs@bccmha.org or contact us at 500 Barfield Drive, Hastings, Ml 49058. No phone calls please. EEO Employer. LEGAL NOTICE FOR 2019 BARRY COUNTY CONSERVATION EASEMENT PROGRAM APPLICATION The Barry County Conservation Easement (BCCE) Board is pleased to announce the 2020 application cycle for the Barry County Conser­ vation Easement Program. Deadline for sub­ mission is Monday, August 31st, 2020, at the County Administration Office. The BCCE pro­ gram was created to help landowners place conservation easements on their parcels to permanently preserve important farmland and natural land. Landowners retain ownership of their land and may receive compensation for their conservation easement based on a state approved appraisal of their land. Participation is completely voluntary. There are also tax benefits to donating a conservation easement to the county. Interested landowners may ob­ tain an informational packet and application for this voluntary program by calling Paul Wing at 269-965-7901. �JO _ Thursday, June 4, 2020 - Trio HaMmps Dannf4 COURT, continued from ’ ■ *■ * ■: . Anyone who isn’t healthy will not be allowed in. As the court moves to reopen. Schipper said questions will likely be asked during the screening process to protect against any spread of the coronavirus. Electronic access to court via Zoom is available to anyone who has that technology and doesn’t have to appear in person. Io keep the court to the 10-person limit, the staff will schedule cases in shifts and split it up by attorney time. “We’ll have an attorney here and hear all the cases for that attorney so we don’t have too many people at once. We also use other floors of lhe building so people don t cluster on one floor. Staff can wear masks and gloves and we wipe down the floor every day. Everything.” The key, though, for the judge is that they never stopped. “It’s a complex thing when you’re poten­ tially trying to schedule 50 people,” Schipper said. “I’m so glad wc did it. They’ve been able to grow and evolve with it." Other courts in Michigan shut down. "They ate going to be buried.” he predicted. The success of the system here is largely reliant on the staff and the attorneys, who “battle when they need to in court but, outside court, they work together.” What has happened in the past three months is remarkable, lhe judge said, looking back on the innovation and development of a system that, frankly, didn’t exist three months ago. Schipper feels strongly that closing down presented a threat of disparate justice. <r' Barry County District Judge M*5*1*61 Schipper Is handling a full criminal docket — via Zoom if necessary. ]n other criminal courts in other counties that shut down, how can lhe system possible mete out fair sentences, he asked. Consider this hypothetical case: A defen­ dant pleads guilty to a crime in February and gets a week in jail, he said. “Had I waited a month, during the crisis, I would have gotten no jail time. In reality, how can it not hap­ pen?” t When the order was made to close, “one of the things we did immediately was we looked at our jail - who was in there, who could be released on personal recognizance bonds. Wc didn’t want people silting in jail longer than they needed to be." Defense Attorney Kristin Hoel represents a client during a recent court hearing, What does the future hold for court operations? Rebecca Pierce Editor ’Life has changed for us." Barry County Court Administrator and Friend of the Court Director Ines Straube said as she looked back over all lhe unexpected developments during the last few months. The court is operating in ways the staff Who polices the police? Rebecca Pierce Editor Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf condemned lhe actions of Minneapolis police officers involved in the arrest and subsequent death of George Floyd on May 25. l he 46-y ear-old black man was killed after he was handcuffed and forced, facedown, with one officer’s knee on the back of his neck while other officers held him down on hixback and legs. jxvo autopsies have concluded that Flojd’s death was a homicide. |he officers were fired and Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin is facing a sec­ ond-degree murder charge in Lloyd’s death wf^le charges are being leveled against the other officers involved. Leaf, who spoke to the Hastings Rotary Club Monday, emphasized lhe importance of officer discretion, while stressing the need for “pjaee officers" who are protecting citizens, not harming them. His views on other high-profile issues redently received national attention after an interview on Fox New s when he discussed the challenges of upholding Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s executive orders. ^Basically, I told my guys to use some common sense out there." he said Monday. “And. for some reason. Fox News got a hold of that and called me up. I was actually sitting here in the counly. staring at a teeny-tiny camenj on my laptop try ing to do an interview. *?1 didn’t like the way they did it. They were tnqking it look like, that we were -- ah. I for­ got how he worded it - that we were com­ pletely defying the governor. 1 said, ‘Wc neVer said that.’ ” Sheriff’s deputies have always had officer discretion, Leaf maintained. “Why is this any different?" he said. “I told my! guy s: Use your heads. Use some common sense.” Leaf’s comments on Fox TV prompted speaking engagement requests. "All of a sudden, it kind of exploded." he said. “I was asked to speak in Grand Rapids. 1 was asked to speak down in Maryland." In Maryland, he said he spoke extensively about the push that sheriffs are making to move from a traditional police officer approach to what Leaf called a "peace offi­ cer.” “The difference is lhe kind of police enforcement: a peace officer is where the offi­ cer has discretion on how he handles his job and how he keeps his community peaceful." While he was speaking on one side of the Capitol building in Maryland. Leaf said, a protest about Floyd’s death at lhe hands of police officers was taking place on the other side of the building. The protest was a calm demonstration, he noted. The Floyd tragedy haunts him. Leaf said "A man was killed and what was the battle over?" he asked Rotarians. "It was over a counterfeit $20 bill. . . What the officer did ... he had his knee on the back of the guy’s neck for S minutes. 1 couldn’t sleep when I heard that. . . . What was he thinking? “And then we’re also trying to warn offi­ cers. too. that if you stand there and watch that, you’re guilty of a crime." Leaf said that officers need to be taught to recognize when one of their fellow' officers is out of line. “Wc want officers to recognize that, just like (they) would recognize a drunk driver.” he said. “When your officer is out of line, sometimes that adrenalin that just gets flow­ ing through your body so much - I hate to pul it this way — you kind of get stupid." “We rely on other officers to make sure we keep each other in line because, really, who polices the police but the police?" Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Garage Sale business Services Farm LARGE MULTI FAMILY SATE. tM?51 Buehler Rd, Free­ port Fri-Sun, June 5th-7th, 2020 S.nn-’ipm. Credit C ards accepted. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut. White Oak7 Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley lagging, (269)818-7793, ' HAY FOR SALE- 1st cut $4.00/bale, 2nd cut $5.00/ bale. Call Delton 269-569-3900 or 269-569-3800. BELLS CONS IRUCI IONyears experience. Dry wall, fMinting, tile, flooring, trim, jome improvements, power washing. 269-320-3H90. MAT! ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailer-, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. For Sale CARRON Sl’ORI AIR 1 lockey Table. $300.00 OBO. Phone 269-908-1654._____________ KASSON 1UFT OAK Pool lablv, excellent condition, $1,000.00 or OBO. 269-908­ 1654 Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads didn’t expect. “We were not prepared for this.” Tammi Price, the county ’s specialty courts manager, said. Price and Straube discussed recently how they have adapted and innovated with the technology to ensure the court operation could continue during the shutdown. it hasn’t been easy. "In lhe courtroom, some cases require two employees to be able to manage both the Zoom, the participants online and the court recording." Straube said. "I’ve had to step in and assist in circuit court because we’re down some court members. "We just had a hearing and we were trying io figure out who’s on Zoom, should they be. just getting a phone number, trying to verify the parties. We’re asking more questions.” Cases also take a little bit longer, she said. “You’re muling pw^rfon the other line because they get a Icij6f feedback." Straube said. “You’re muling them and you’re won­ dering: Are they talking or trying to state an objection and when they should be unmuled. “It’s a lot of work, trying to admit exhibits, try mg to have them submitted first. We’re trying to figure out how to streamline it for evidentiary hearings - exhibits and submis­ sion of exhibits. We’ll run into a problem with our spam filter. We don’t know they’ve emailed it unless someone calls or asks about it...We have to take a recess to find it. We have to figure it out." Because they livestream court proceedings for the public on YouTube, some issues cov­ ered in court may be problematic. For exam­ ple, they recently had a DNA case and they asked them: '“Do you really want that DNA test result on the internet?’" So they’re encountering problems that they never could have predicted. In some cases, they’ve had attorneys driv­ ing their cars and attending hearings. Straube mentioned. So they have a prepared lecture in which they tell them: "You shouldn’t be driving a car and attending a hearing." "We just had that yesterday (in a civil case) where we had to take a recess and tell the party: You need to find a safe place because you need to be focused on die road if you’re driving. You also need to know' what’s going on and pay attention to your proceeding.” she said. Price said they had that issue as well. "One of our treatment providers had to establish a rule that you can’t be driving and attend -V0l,r hearing. It’s kind of crazy, the lack of com­ mon sense with regard to some of these things." The technology has created more complica­ tions and work for the staff. for surc’ 1)01,1 Price and Straube said It also has created some odd moments stranger than attorneys trying to drivc and participate in hearings. , Straube said, "Well, there are folks who like to attend court while they’re lying in bed. They just woke up. We’ve had attorneys ask liow they should dress for court. . . “ I his morning, an attorney participac­ ing and they had a backdrop - die>'can d’a’!8C their backdrop. But the iudge doesn't like that because you can’t see who else is in the r°°m with them. So he was asked to remove the back.” As soon as Ihc backdrop ftfniovcd. they could see -he Was jn |h<;c|0!iel" bhe laughed. The key. they both said is to rei>iei”lK’r‘J1.11' ll0'VcVer ihc individua| connect W1 * ,c they should behave like ll,e) ' are in court. It has been a r..r» i ktr experience* they a-nl they have'l^roed ft°m *hc ■nnovalions they |lavc „ul in P'^-houl the We wouldn’t be ihle to do H *,lh0Ul, “««su>fl ."Slnill^ sa^ !!All of out employ- ees are taking the initiative to leant something new. help in other offices when they’re asked to. They’re not IT experts, so this is all new to them. They’re troubleshooting alongside us and they’re problem solving on their own and bringing it to our attention so that we can streamline our processes.” Price and Straube don’t know what the future holds for court operations once lhe state opens up. That’s up to the state Supreme Court, Straube said. But after the past three months, the 45 staff members in the court system - from lhe dis­ trict, circuit, probate and Friend of the Court offices - feel they’re ready for just about anything. LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE TO CREDITORS TO ALL CREDITORS: " • <t ■ •"i J >.> -h; nijbf -.o biiniw < >«)A nj'-.’ii. NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Robert J. Werner (date of birth December 30. 1928). Grantor of the Robert J. Werner Living Trust dated November 20, 2012, who lived at 2099 E. Bristol Rd.. Dowling, Ml 49050 died May 12. 2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the trust will be forever barred unless presented to the current Trustee, Cindy MacDonald, whoso address is 109 Four Seasons Drive. Lake Orion. Ml 48360 or to the attorney for the Trustee Kathleen F. Cook, at 121 South Cochran Ave., Charlotte, Ml 48813 within 4 months of the date of publication of this notice. SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING May 13,2020 - 7:00 p.m; • > Regular meeting called to order and Pledge of Allegiance. . Present: Bellmore. Spencer, Watson. Hawthorne, Greenfield, James, Walters Approved the Agenda Approved the Consent Agenda Monthly Treasurer’s Report Monthly Clerk's Voucher/Payroll Report Hired Reynolds Survey to survey the Rutland Charter Township Cemetery Accepted Ordinance #2020-175 for second reading and adoption. Adjournment 7:42 p.m. Date: June 2. 2020 Law Office of Kathleen F. Cook Kathleen F. Cook P31842 121 S. Cochran Ave. Charlotte. Mi 48813 (517)543-7643 Respectfully submitted. Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Attested to by, Larry Watson, Supervisor 142007 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Trust TO ALL CREDITORS: The Settlor. Donald J. Drummond. DOB: 10/28/1935 SSN: xxx-xx-8756. who lived at 1616 Wildwood Drive, Rutland Township, Michigan died February 29, 2020. There Is no personal representative of the settlor's estate to whom Letters of Administration have been Issued. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the Donald J. Drummond Trust dated 04/18/1980 as amended will be forever banned unless presented to Dike C. Drummond, David J. Drummond & Dana Drummond Rittenberg Co-Trustee(s) within 4 months after the date of publication. Varnum LLP Christopher J. Caldwell P64928 Bridgewater Place, PO Box 352 Grand Rapids, Ml 49501 616/336-6000 Dike C. Drummond, David J. Drummond & Dana Drummond Rittenberg c/o Christopher Caldwell - Bridgewater Place: PO Box 352 Grand Rapids, Ml 49501 141909 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate FILE NO. 20-26502-DE Estate of Wiiham Dean VanDenburg. Date of birth: 06/03/1952. TO ALL CREDITORS; NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Wuiiam Dean VanDenburg. d>ed 03/14/2020. Creditors of lhe decedent are notified that all claims aga nst the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Kelly Newberry, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings. Ml 49058 and lhe personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 5/27/2020 David H. Tripp P29290 202 S. Broadway Hastings. Ml 49056 269-948-2900 Kelly Newberry 3517 River Road Hastings, Ml 49059 269-836-5537 141840 141846 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate FILE NO. 20-28501 DE Estate of Timothy James V/eiton. Date of birth: 10/20/1956. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Timothy James Welton, died 03/12/2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that al! claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Vickie Welton, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street. Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 05/29/2020 Nathan E. Tagg P68994 202 South Broadway Hastings. Ml 49058 (269)948-2900 Vickie Welton 1303 Morning Star Drive Middleville, Ml 49333 (269)838-7743 141897 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate FILE NO. 20028510-DE Estate of Keith Edward Stearns. Date of birthDecember 10,1970. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Kerth Edward Stearns, died January 28.2020. Creditors of the decedent are not.fied that all claims aganst tho estate will be forever barred unless presented to Lawrence J. Benton, persona! representative or to both the ^obato court at 206 W. Court Street. Hastmos. Ml **9058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice Mark L. Feinberg, PC. Mark L Fe.nbeaj P31608 303C0 Northwestern Hwy, Third Floor Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248)932-3500 Lawrence J Benton 30700 Telegraph Road, Suite 1644 Bingham Farms, Ml 48025 (248)^200 M16S3 �The Hastings1, Banner — Thur iday. June 4.■-----2020 ine» nASting Independent physicians making hate being rushed. I didn’t want to do this job under those circumstances.” Moore said he joined a solo pediatric practice in Jackson, practicing there for six years before striking out on his own. <>rvg Chandler less personalized care as larger health care networks influence how doctors conduct their practices. It also could mean even fewer primary care doctors in parts of rural the^cwii)™9 Michigan, hi less than two years, between 2016 and In March. ixnh dociors saw a significant dmp in them patient llMd and re>cnl^" 2018, U5. hospitals bought up S.000 medical of the coronavirus kept lien,s ,car practices and 14.(XX) physicians left private c-ta- and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer id practice and entered into employment ht m s<> ‘-‘"I SJal'’run °“'Palient clinics to contracts with hospitals, according to a 2019 health care consultant report. wnPiec“ CJ -non-essential" medical Analysts say COVID-19 could further strain independent physician practices Carlson, who owns Family Tree Medical Associates on West Green .Street, saw a 65 Io throughout Michigan, perhaps speeding their 70 percent drop m business in lhe first three decline. How that affects medical care remains weeks of the pandemic. Hoffman saw a to be seen. Three-fourths of U.S. physicians worked similar decline. But after that initial -, both independently in 1983. That had fallen to 49 doctors found ways to stay connected to their percent by 2012, according to the national patients and have seen business rebound. Survey of America’s Physicians. By 2018, For Carlson, technology has significantly just 31 percent of U.S. physicians were helped his practice stay in contact with independent. patients. In the past couple of years. Family “The trend line has been pretty clear for a Tree Medical had already instituted televisits long time," Marianne Udow-Phillips. for routine visits, including preventative care executive director of the Center for Health appointments. and Research Transformation at the University “So, when we needed to make a conversion of Michigan, told Bridge Magazine. to either a telephone call or telcvisit. a lot of "1 think this will give it another push." these things were already in place up front, Independent practitioners already faced and that made it easier for us to do that," he increasing pressures that larger medical said. “I think people locked down for a couple groups can absorb through administrative of weeks and then realized we can do visits on backup. The move to electronic health records lhe phone, wc can do visits that are around pries time away from a physician's contact acute issues or chronic disease management, with patients. Reporting requirements under [such as] diabetes, hypertension, high the Affordable Care Act, including for cholesterol - those kind of things." Medicare payments, add another managerial Carlson said caseloads are now back to layer to a physician’s day. Independent around 70 to 80 percent of what they were physicians also struggle to compete with the before lhe pandemic struck. purchasing clout and marketing and IT power Hoffman, whose office is on M-37 and of larger health groups. who has been practicing medicine for more “The thing that makes it really challenging than 30 years, used an even more personal for some small practitioners is they don’t have touch with some clients who have acute the infrastructure to gel them through a conditions. massive disruption like COVID-19." Udow"We did some house calls on people we Phillips said. thought we needed to see.” he said. With lhe trend toward hospital-run or Like Carlson. Hoffman also has used large group practices, she said, “there is a technology to sec patients for more routine question of what will be lost. Will they lose procedures. personal touch with their patients?" Both practices received assistance through Udow-Phillips said it’s possible that may the $2 trillion Coronavirus Aid. Relief and mean fewer medical practices in rural Economic Security Act. which included the Michigan, where counties in the northern Paycheck Protection Program, which allowed Lower Peninsula and Upper Peninsula already the doctors to keep nurses and office staff on suffer a shortage of primary care physicians, board without having them lose a portion of which may or may not be offset by an their pay. expansion of hospital-backed physician "We’re very grateful for that assistance," groups. Hoffman said. Officials at the Michigan State Medical Now, both doctors are taking steps to Society say there’s no firm data for the serve their patients, while making adjustments number of independent providers among the to their offices. 28,692 active Michigan physicians in 2019. “We’re y!L^dUi!eiiwaiting 1But if the state is on par with national survey room, where patients will stay in their vehicles iresults, about 9.000 would be independent. until we want them to come in," Carlson said. A MSMS April survey of 900 Michigan “Then we’ll do some prescreening things to primary care physicians underscored the make sure there's no one [close to the patient] impact of COVID-19 on these practices. with COVID issues." The survey found that in physician groups Other independent health care of two to five — all but certain to be professionals, such as Dr. Stephen Bell in independent physicians — 80 percent said Monroe Counly, are concerned about their their patient volume fell more than 40 percent due to lhe COVID-18 crisis. And 84 percent future. “It’s just me," he said, describing his said their revenue dropped by more than 40 internal medicine practice, which consists of percent. himself, an office manager and a couple “The financial strain on practices has been medical assistants. great,’’ MSMS Executive Director Julie Bell said he would normally see 28 Novak said. patients a day at his Berlin Township office. Novak said it’s loo early to predict how That’s down about half due to the impact of COVID-19 might shape the future of medical COVID-19 — patients he now sees through practice in Michigan, or whether it will drive large numbers of independent physicians telemedicine. Bell is grateful to be afloat, thanks to a toward group or hospital practice. federal loan he got through the CARES Act "I don’t know that we would see a massive that will allow him, temporarily, to meet consolidation of independent physicians. payroll and pay the bills. Il will turn into a There is always some element of [physicians grant if he keeps all the employees on the who want to remain independent]. There are physicians who feel they can establish their payroll for eight weeks. own practice and make their own decisions After that? “It depends on how long this COVID-19 well.” lasts and how long we gel support. If I’m But with U.S. medical school debt running on one engine, it s belter than if I had averaging nearly $200,000 in 2018. it appears no engine. I guess my crash depends on more graduates are opting for lhe security of a whether that second engine kicks in." hospital system over the financial risk and Even before COVID-19, independent administrative headaches of joining an doctors were becoming a rarity, as hospital independent practice. Working for a large systems gobbled up medical practices. medical group offers the prospect of a Analysis say their disappearance could mean predictable paycheck and regular hours. , , Writer 'I* hcallh carc p™*iders Dr Dr' "olTman of 10'’,n**'’y BROADBAND, continued from page 1----- -—■ had access to services with al least 25 Mbps, which is considered the current FCC standard for effective broadband. Manning said in an earlier interview. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture SonnyPerdue announced May 13 that Barry- County Services, of which MEI is a subsidiary company, had been approved for $ 11.8 million in grants and loans through the USDA’s rural broadband initiative. The funding will allow the company to build out fiber-based broadband in 10 townships in the county, including the largest in terms of population Thornapple. Yankee Springs and Rutland Charter townships. County board chairwoman Heather Wing. R-Bellevue, expressed disappointment with lhe USDA’s award, saying some areas of lhe county that have the least amount of broadband penetration are still being left out. particularly in her heavily-agricullural district. “When you look al the broadband map, there’s not much available in Assyria. Johnstown, Maple Grove or Baltimore [townships]." Wing said Wednesday in a The northern pan of phone interview. ‘T Baltimore Township is going to see some expansion, and the northwest part of Maple Grove Township is going to see it, but for the majority of my district and the majority of Commissioner [Ben] Geiger s district, there s really not many options.” "The eastern side [of the county] is all agricultural, and in my opinion, that’s what lhe USDA grant was supposed to do, is help the farms and farmers stay connected. When you look at lhe statistics that were released by Secretary Perdue, there really aren’t that many farms [being helped)," Wing added. Meanwhile, several internet sen-ice providers are waiting to hear whether thev received grants through the Connecting Michigan Communities program, an initiative of the state Department of Technology. Management and Budget. The CMIC program is offering $20 million in grants to provider who want to expand access in rural areas of the stale, with providers able to seek up t0 ss million per grunt. w Barry County commissioners in Aumiu 2019 approved letters of support for service providers - Barry County Servi,. CoJMEI. ACD.net and Michwavc who were seeking «ranls through lhe CMIC initiative. "We don’t have a confirmation y, - • Ion whether wc were approved],” ACD •’ ’ chief executive officer Kevin Schoen said Tuesd An announcement was expected on*CMir grants in April but was delayed because (1‘r ,5 COVID-19 virus. No dale for an announcer has been set. ,u’nl 11- tnignts to serve patients during pandemic Some WQpXaboutJuture of independent offices . Tmv — Page j- Dr fhomas Hoffman □ Dr. Troy Carlson Advocates f»r l**1’llal "r '«ge network physician gr«up> ' t;,n more efficient than ,nde|* cnnc ^ravlKes- wb‘lc leaving doctors fn*10, ^nL,n‘tc on patients rather than adminBtm ‘ v *Ls)csBut there’s a trade-off: Working for a system can diminish a Physician’s control over clinical policiescan. lor instance, mean pressure from administrators to churn through more patients a day or refer patients to specialists at the same hospital system rather than to a doctor who may be a better match. . . .t For some physicians, its simply about maintaining a sense ot control over how patient care should be administered. Twenty-two years ago, internal medicine physician Martha Gray and a partner started an independent practice. Partners in Internal Medicine. "We spent $60 for our logo." Grayrecalled. T he practice now has offices in Ann Arbor and Canton, and has grown to five physician business partners and two contracted physicians. “I wanted to Ik* small," Gray said. "I like to be in control and run my own thing.” ’Die practice is getting by for now. thanks to a $660,000 loan through the Paycheck Protection Program. Because the practice serves Medicare patients — federally insured patients 65 and older — it’s also tapped into a CARES provision that gives the business a three-month advance on those payments. One way or another. Gray is optimistic her practice will come out of the COVID-19 crisis intact. But she’s less confident other independent practices will survive. "I think it's going to kill them off. First of all. they were dying to start with before this. You can’t do solo practice anymore. There’s just so much bureaucracy.” In 2004. pediatrician Scott Moore launched an independent practice in Chelsea, west of Ann Arbor. He added an Ann Arbor office four years ago. Moore said he gravitated toward opening his own practice as he finished his residency at lhe Ohio State University College of Medicine in 1996 and watched as the OSU medical school bought out independent practices. “There was this idea that you were going to sec this many patients an hour. There was less control over how the patients were managed. “1 did not want to hop into a system where sou were seeing a patient every 10 minutes. I SFtorth Broadway ©U®s®d near Freeport 3s road closed THRU TRAFFIC k Signs alert motorists that North Broadway is closed just inside the county line. Kathy Maurer Copy Editor A year after a section of North Broadway was closed for repairs, recent flooding exposed a new issue that has again closed the road in in Carlton Township, just south of the Ionia County line. Even though water has since receded, officials are unsure how or when damage will be repaired. The short stretch of North Broadway was closed in March 2019 after a section collapsed due to erosion of fill material around the 16 '^-foot-wide culvert. "We did some pr«n) intensive repairs." Barry County Road Commission Director of Operations Jake ^elch said of the 2019 repairs, which included a wall to direct water and riprap to help control the erosion along the river bank in the E«n,e Thomapple River. After crews focused on those repairs last year, Welch said, the culvert was operating properly. The heavy ra*ns two weeks ago washed away the nK’ks and accumulated gravel encountered m ‘he bottom of the culvert during the 201 > .inspection. Thai’s how they discovered wear in the boiioin of the pipe. “... 'Die problem1 not able to Ik* discovered [last he ^ai<l. "and by process of elimination, wc determined lhe repair completed in 201.. Ccrtai»Iy thought we had taken cart of I’^blem for a fraction of what a bnd^ uld cost." In culverts, he 5 ,C. areas m°sl •susceptiblc to rot. °r r s ’.’ ‘ ’he haunches, where water med'’ ,ht’* ’ Las‘ year, they needed a boat l» ‘J^hc ,id“ 'T"' Csi"g rod- pushed down f ‘k "I the boat, 'hey manually m “ w Weak areas. During that m'l* ■ *"• probes kepi hilling ..Kknndgra'^ j. With rhe dehns ch- " > <his year, he 'aid. thev were able I" ' “nh in wadeis and discovered a 'and. gmsel and eulvert for years haJ «ay sandpaper wt.i ••None of us ha»e l1w „ a^hnn,gh the „ W<M 1 'he same • More," Barricades, fencing and heavy machinery block North Broadway over the Lillie Thomapple River in Carlton Township. he said, "not even consulting engineers." Regardless ol the uniqueness, the 50-yearold culvert still needs to Ik* repaired or replaced. Many recent bridge repairs and replacements in lhe counly have been funded by theCrilical Bridge Program.This particular span, however, is t<x) small to quality. So. Welch and BCRC Managing Director Brad Lninberg arc busily exploring solutions and funding to make repairs and re open die road. l he recent quarantine is resulting in leu er dollars from state gasoline laws and vehicle registrations, both ol which support road and highway budgets. Welch said current projections are showing substantial cut* to road commission funding. The Little Thomapple is part of an inter counly drain system shared with Ionia County Welch and LamlKrg have sought funding and guidance from that board, as well as its own governing board, lhe Michigan Department of Transportation. the Department of Environment. Great Lakes and Energy and others. While they know drivers are tired of the detour, they are weighing repair options amid likely funding cuts. •‘Wc arc working hard to figure out how we’re going to do what we need to do," Welch said. They expect to have a plan in two to three weeks • We're try mg our best to get it kick open within our budget," he said. l or now. motorists are directed cast along Brown or Vedder roads to Messer Road, which runs parallel to Broadway. �MHSAA update “ returnprovides of school sports . UN' ■ Hastings senior Abby Larabee signs her National Letter of Intent to join lhe Aquinas College Women's Track and Field program next season. ______ There is a chance that the first high school sports activities this summer look something like this conditioning session at Maple Valley High School from 2017, socially-distanced strength and conditioning exercises outside. Reduced restrictions across the state of Michigan have schools finalizing plans for what school sponsored sporting activities will be in the coming months. Maple Valley High School athletic director calk any plans for getting student-athletes back on the field a “living document” at this point. Things continue to change day to day and hour to hour. “It could be one thing on Tuesday and then changed by Wednesday, it really could.*’ Wilkes said. The Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Friday submitted to its member schools a series of ujxlated timelines and recommendations to guide the return of sports, which have been suspended since midMarth to alleviate the potential spread of COVID-19. and the efforts to return stu­ dent-athletes got a boost from Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer Monday . The Michigan High School Athletic Association has updated its guidelines for reopening of school sports based on lhe lifting of her stay-at-home order and further recom­ mendations from Whitmer’s office announced Monday.June I. “We were excited and encouraged by Governor Whitmer’s announcements Monday . The opportunity for outside gatherings of up to 100 alloy.cd us to rework a number of guidelines that we had published Friday as part of the MHSA.-VNFHS reopening docu­ ment," MHSAA executive director Mark I’yl said in a Monday press release. “Our schools have been cautiously eager to take this long-awaited first step. We will continue to provide updates in accordance with the Governor’s directives for reopening the state, always prioritizing safety for all invoked in school sports programs." With Monday’s announcement from Whitmer, MHSAA member schools may begin summer activities al school facilities as long as these two conditions are met: 1. School administration has announced schools facilities are open to students and staff, and 2. The academic school year (last day of online instruction'cxams) has ended. “We will look at starting our summer work­ outs here in the next week or so. What that looks like right now, I really can’t give you an answer on that until I meet with all my coach­ es and figure something out," Wilkes said. Indoor facilities, including gymnasiums and weight rooms, remain closed. This includes swimming pools, although outdoor pools may be used for athletic activities -- but there is not an outdoor competition pool in the county. Competition is not yet allowed in any sport because participants must continue to follow social distancing. Balls may be used among groups of partic­ ipants, but participants should clean such common equipment as permitted and continue to maintain proper hygiene (washing hands, not touching their faces) and social distance. “Still in a bit of a waiting mode at this point." Delton Kellogg athletic director Mike Mohn said. “There are a handful of rules and regulations that appear to be a bit unclear and we are wailing for an update. “We should know more in the next couple of days. When w e do come back, it will be for conditioning only at the onset, and outdoors only due to the regulations that are stilt ih place regarding 'social distancing. AV“tHs point, there would be no competition, scrim­ mages or simulated game/'contests until we get another step forward in the all clear department. “Folks are anxious to get started, that is for sure. I can’t blame them either. It has been an interesting period of time to say lhe least.” '* The "MHSAA/NFHS Guidance for Re-Opening School Sports" is based primari­ ly on direction provided by the MHSAA and National Federation of State High School Associations’ (NFHS) Sports Medicine Advisory Committees, in addition to reopen­ ing plans provided by the Michigan and fed­ eral governments and recommendations from HASTINGS BANDS’ "BOWLING FOR BANDS" EVENT A HUGE SUCCESS!! the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCl. Concepts from the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee also were consulted. The MHSAA/NFHS plan recommends a three-step process to returning to full athletic participation, and for each step outlines actions to be taken in five major areas: pre-workout/contest screening of athletes and coaches for sickness, limitations of the num­ ber of participants who may be involved in a gathering, proper cleaning for facilities, the use of equipment during activity and best practices for keeping participants safely hydrated, lhe plan also places sports into categories based on risk for transmitting the virus (low/moderate'high). with adjusted retum-to-aclivity steps based on that level of risk. According to the MHSAA. the most accu­ rate answer to lhe question “What Step are schools on?" is Step 2 for outdoor activities - thanks to the ability to have gatherings of up to 1(X) participants - while indixjr activities will start at Step I if gatherings of only 10 or fewer are allowed. Guidelines will continue to be updated based on directives from Governor Whitmer’s office. The MHSAA seizes more than 1.500 pub­ lic ' and private ‘schools, including 750 high schools. The retum-to-activity guidelines are aimed to provide direction for schools as they con­ tinue to limit potential exposure to respiratory droplets, the primary avenue for transferring COVID-19. Specifically, the MHSAA/NFHS plan addresses social distancing, use of cloth and other face coverings, event scheduling and transportation, and the possibility that schools may have to break from or completely discontinue activity including competition during the fall or winter because of recurrent outbreaks of the coronavirus. School district administrators will deter­ mine at which step in the MHSAA/NFHS plan their schools are operating based on the number of people allowed to gather by state medical officials. The MHSAA has remained in regular con­ tact with the Governor’s office. Michigan Department of Health & Human Services and Michigan Department of Education through­ out the pandemic, in addition to leadership from the stale’s superintendents, school prin­ cipals. athletic administrators and school boards associations. The Hastings Bands would like to thank the following individuals and businesses for their support of the Hastings Bands’ 2020 “Bowling for Bands" event to raise funds for new Marching Mellophones and Baritones: •Maestro Level ($500 or more) Bennett Travel Walmart-Hastings •Virtuoso Level Dewey's Auto Body Gole Dental Group MacLeod Chiropractic Center McDonald's of Hastings Riverside Screw Machine Products The General Store Thornapple Credit Union Thornapple Lake Trading Post 'Soloist Level­ Bradford White Brite Beginnings Child Care Carbon Green BioEnergy D&T Property Preservations Delton Pole Building Supplies Edward Jones-Andrew Cove Edward Jones-Kevin Beck Family Tree Medical Associates Girrbach Funeral Home Hastings Rotary Club Highpoint Community Bank Jr. Rangerland-Jennifer Haywood •Soloist Level continuedKiwanis Club of Hastings Les's Sanitary Service Mexican Connexion Mid-Michigan Group Miller Real Estate PFCU Precision Auto Body Repair Rivergate Family Campground Southside Pediatrics Dr. Stacey and Cindy Garrison Thornapple Arts Council of BC •Drum Major Level Affordable Metal LLC Bouma Corporation Burdock Hill Dairy Delton Moose Lodge Morgan Electrical Services Pennington Family RDF Concepts Reynolds Land Surveying •Door Prizes provided by Performance Plus Quick Lube Pizza Hut-Trigo Hospitality Even though we were not able to hold our final celebration event at Hastings Bowl due to Covid-19, we want to sincerely say Thank You to the community for your support of the Hastings Bands’ largest, yearly fundraiser! Thank 'You ■ Larabee earns sp©t on Aquinas track team Brett Bremer Sports Editor Abby Larabee chose Aquinas College before lhe Saints’ Women’s Track & Field program found here. Getting a call in early April from lhe track and field coaches was just a happy surprise for luirabec. a new Hastings High School graduate. T he Sainis announced May 1 that Larabee had signed her National Letter of Intent to join the program. Uirabce. the daughter of Carrie and Jason Larabee, became the fourth signee of the 2020-21 recruiting class for lhe Aquinas College women's cross country and track & field programs. She expects to run sprints and sprint relays for lhe Saints during the indoor and outdoor seasons. Larabee has posted personal bests that include 3035 seconds in the 200 meters and 14.15 in the 100 meters. A freshman teamed with three seniors at the time, Larabee earned an Interstate-8 /Mhletic Conference championship in the 4x200-nieter relay a.s a freshman. Larabee, MwlitflflJLmith Emily Westers andATnddie'^dfft^^p^^ for a time of 1 minute 5135 .scconusto win that conference title. Larabee placed tenth in the 100-meter dash and the 200-metcr dash as a sophomore al the Interstate-8 Conference Meet. Larabee was also a four-ycar member of the Hastings High School golf program and two year member of the high school girls’ basketball program. Aquinas associate head coach Kevin Winne commented, “Wc are happy to add Abby to the Aquinas track and field program. She brings added depth to the short sprints group." “I went on quite a few' campus tours and really looked at my options, but I always knew I wanted to be a little closer to home," Larabee said. “When wc toured Aquinas, hon­ estly, it just felt like home on campus. It is such a close-knit community, and everybody was just so helpful." She liked lhe feeling that people at Aquinas believed in her and believed she could accom­ plish good things there. “I wanted to go to Aquinas from the start, and then once I got the chance to be on the track team it was even more of a decision,” Larabee said. Abby Larabee The call from the track and field program came about two weeks after she had already sent in her enrollment deposit. Larabee plans on majoring in marketing and minoring in international business at lhe moment. She has been involved in some mar­ keting projects for her family’s company, J-Ad Graphics which publishes the Hastings Banner and Hastings Reminder as well as other w eekly newspapers across the area, with the extra lime she has had this spring without a senior track and field season. She has worked on social media video projects high­ lighting businesses throughout Barry County and Caledonia. At Hustings High School, Larabee was a member of the Young Athletes for Christ as well as a member of the Leadership Barry Counly board. What consumers need to know about bottle returns now Taylor Owens Staff Wr*ler . . So many cans and bottle5 have stacked up over the past months that residents have not been allowed to return tl»cn1’ *l may takc ”1?^ than a year to get them all into the recycling stream where they belong. *°mc induslr> experts say. , , Illis week mrt <rf ^ov* ^,re,cdicn Whitmer’s ewcutiw o'd‘'r reopening of Michi n business^., bolth. .ind can returns X l*"”iUed SP<C“,C stores. This may con,. wel^ "ews w^.Put‘l>a.sed. c Ixutl* ,n® ^Unc 15. bou e-retun, machines ti.|..iJers with s(art collecting c vs and cans againll0 mention of whl^Hen‘°r’sor<Ui:! • machines may When stores without d,c>t R m”10. service , nl>. jo not have ‘ ost reiaj|CR in BatO \vhich limits rever,e vending UnP °>ee contact with dltf^urns will be ' Ho, Mores that can rc‘l«»vd to iilnil the containers they accept per week to 140 percent of their average weekly collection amount that occurred in April and May 2019. There also are a number of limits that retailers may implement, although they are not required to do so. Retailers also can limit the number of con­ tainers returned to $25 per person each day, set specific hours for these returns, limit the number of machines that will accept returns and implement additional procedures or restrictions for safety and efficiency. Michigan residents relumed 393 million beverage containers in 2018, according to the Michigan Department of Treasury. Chief Operating Officer of Schupan & Sons Recycling Tom Emmerich has told news outlets that 70 million beverage containers are emptied each week. This week, there may be as many as $70 million in containers that consumers are wait­ ing to redeem. Emmerich has said. Jim Brown. Hastings Charter Township sujtervisor. which has its own recycling mod­ ule, said some people may have been throw­ ing their items away rather than keep them for recycling. A 2004 law made throwing these empty containers into the trash a misdemeanor, pun- ishable with a fine of up to $1 .OCX). Brown said people have put some beverage containers in the township’s module, although whoever does so does not get their 10<ent deposit back. Consumers have the option of recycling their returnable beverage containers if they choose not to return them to a bottle deposit redemption facility, according to a news release from the stale Treasury Department, which will issue further guidance regarding additional phases of the re-establishment of the bottle deposit program in lhe near future. The collection of returnable beverage con­ tainers was temporarily suspended by Executive Order 2020-21, issued by Whitmer on March 23. Dial temporary suspension supported lhe state’s effort to pennit grocery stores and other retailers to shift employees from con­ tainer collection and deposit redemption duties to other areas where they were more urgently needed, and to protect lhe health and safely of retailers, their employees, and citi­ zens. Questions regarding the phase-in of the re-established bottle return program can Ik directed to Tieas MiscTaxesFees(‘’ michigan gOV. �The Hastings Banner •— Thursday. June 4- 2020 — Page 13 VanPolen plans to roll w,th the DU Panthers Brett Bremer Sports Editor Somewhere in this great land there is a fc.-W .-.Iley open. and new Thomapple Kellogg graduate Ircvor VanPolen and hie l.i,n.h lu'e been exploring their options VanPolens mother. Ginnie VanPolen.’said J* has been looking for open lanes in the jegntns with recently reduced restrictions in northern Michigan and in Indiana. Trevor signed his National letter of Intent t0 join the Davenport University Men’s Bowling program in February, just weeks before rolling in the Division 2 State Finals with the Thomapple Kellogg varsity bowling team. Trevor helped lead the TK boys’ team to a iwincr-up regional finish, and also qualified for the singles competition at the state finals. The MHSAA Finals tor Division 2 were held March b-7 al Century Bowl in Waterford. That was the last time VanPolen bowled on a lane. Less than a week later, in-school learn­ ing and high school sports were suspended. Trevor said hasn’t gone for a stretch like this away from the bowling lanes since he started. He really got into competitive bowl­ ing as a freshman. Trevor bowled in a few leagues as a youth, but in middle school lhe sport was pretty much reserved for fun times with friends and.'or family. Trevor started getting more serious about the sport between his sophomore and junior seasons, taking lessons with Mike Marks at Spectrum Lanes in Wyoming. Often times those practice sessions would start at 7 am. Thornapple Kellogg senior Trevor VanPolen (seated center) is joined by Davenport on a Sunday morning and last for two to three University Bowling head coach Mike Eaton (seated right), Davenport assistant coach hours. “My game really just kind of took off,” Eric Bottrall (seated left), (back from left) TK assistant bowling coach Ray Gould, TK Trevor said. varsity bowling coach Cheryl Cooper and Davenport assistant coach Sue Eaton as he He said he had an average of about 130 as signs his National Letter of Intent, Feb. 25 at TKHS, to join the Davenport University a freshman. That number was up to 220 his Men’s Bowling program next season. senior season. “I have a lot more confidence in what 1 am doing. My ability, technique and form arc so much better that it gives me more confidence that I am going to be able to step up and do what I need to do.” Trevor said. Ginnie said she could also see from the back of the bowling alley that part of Trevor’s success came from the talent of lhe Thomapple Kellogg coaching staff. “Part of Trevor’s success, especially during matches, was his coaches’ ability to know him well enough to kind of ‘talk him off the ledge’ so to speak.” Ginnie said. “Thai was always the going phrase. (TK head coach) Cheryl (Cooper) always does an amazing job with the kids.” Trevor said he likes numbers and plans on studying business finance at Davenport University. “That has always been one school I was looking at. They have the bowling program too, so that is one more reason why it stuck out to me. And, it is close to home, so it is not that far of a drive and I don’t have to stay on campus to go there,” Trevor said. He is also looking forward to bowling with his TK classmate Colton Hicswa. who also has plans to roll with the Davenport University (DU) Panthers next season. That duo not only helped get the Trojans to the slate finals this winter, but also helped TK win the OK Gold Conference Championship. Trevor’s 220 average led the conference last winter, and he was the top bowler at the conference’s postseason tournament with a three-game series of 741. Teammates Michael Willshire, who went on to win an individual regional championship, and Wyatt Jacobson also earned spots on the all-conference team. Hicswa was an honorable mention all-confercnce selection. “I’ve already met the team (al DU) and they’re all pretty cool. I already know a cou­ ple of kids on lhe team, so it is going to be fun.” Ircvor said . Trevor rolled in a couple league’s last sum­ mer. ns well as a Saturday high school league at Spectrum last year. He has been a Pepsi State Finals qualifier each of the past twq years, placing 67th in a field of 140 entries in the Upper Division, UI7 Male. Scratch com­ petition in 2019. Ihc 2020 event was canj celed. Trevor placed third in the scratch series standings and fourth in the scratch gamq scoring at the March 1 Winter State Games of Michigan. ’Ircvor teamed with Willshire, a member of TK’s Class ot 2021. to win ihd Doubles. Boys A. 1 landicapped division at the United States Bowling Congress’ 20l<j Michigan State Youth doubles event. Trevor has yet to roll a 300 in competitive play, but rolled his first perfect game in pracj lice at Spectrum Lancs during the lead-up to the start of this year’s MHSAA state toumai ment. ‘•We were actually practicing on the oil patterns that they lay at regionals,” Trcvof said. “It was my first one. I have, in a league before, thrown a 299. so I have been reailyj close. I just wanted get a 300 to say I’d actu­ ally thrown one. I didn’t really care if it waS in a league or not.” Ginnie still has the paper print-out of the score sheet hanging out on the family refrig­ erator. Mom’s only request when Trevor decided to try and slay sharp by throwing some balls outside in the yard due to the “stay home, stay safe” orders was to not use the expensive balls. Away from lhe lanes. Trevor has been a four-ycar member of the Thomapple Kellogg High School marching band program and a symphonic band member, and he was a part of the Barry County Youth Leadership Summit. Business leaders prepare to get back to work Bridge Magazine Michigan is still feeling its way through a reopening plan, but some state business lead­ ers say it’s not too soon to consider what next steps will best prepare the state for economic recovery. The most important goal: helping to keep existing businesses open so the economy can ‘Flat Smokey’ aims to raise fire safety awareness Bear has been an iconic forest and (ire safety figure for 75 years. As bmoney oear summer woalher and increased fire danger, the DNR MrcNgan heads toward lhe n.^ _ H is ottering Flat Smok y F downloadable template that kids co(or and share p With warmer temperatures and fire danger, the DN'R is getting a little he p from a familiar face to boost the pu safely smarts: Smokey Bear. -yc.vt-irBut die department is sharing old icon in a new way - Flat Smo ey. Hat Smokey is inspired by the H* Stanley” children’s b<x)k senes, n <­ a young boy is squashed flat by a a |hc Ictin board while sleeping, but he n • best of Jus flatness and enjoys new adventures that include sliding under doors, il> B kite and traveling cross-country m ' c lupe to visit friends. . j;^r#.nt Kids can experience Smokey in a k ^ay too.TheycandownloadItheF «mplate, pnnt it on stiff paper 1 K T k Djc. ‘Or paste onto cardboard) and color. lures and videos of family and friends practic­ ing fire safety with cookouts, campfires, fire­ works and more, and then share using the hashtags AFIatSmokey and ^PrevenlWildfires. Share the fire safety fun by sending Flat Smokey in the mail to someone else. Nine out of 10 wildfires in Michigan are caused by people. Taking simple precautions and using effective fire safety practices can Mive lives and protect property, wildlife and the environment. When burning, always have a waler source, shovel and metal bucket near­ by never leave a fire unattended, and always thoroughly douse a fire until it i, cxlil] guished. . . (Jet fire’ s‘deD llPs ilt Michigan.gov/ PreventWildtires or contact Rachel Con|e al 517-284-7269. grow, said Doug Rothwell. CEO of Business Leaders for Michigan. Doing that, he said, will require the state to consider its approaches to areas like worker retraining, state tax structure and small busi­ ness support after coronavirus. “’During a time of crisis when you have limited dollars, you really need to make sure that w hatever youare spending helps as many people as possible.” Rothwell said. The statewide advocacy group presented the Michigan Legislature with its plan for recovery last week and now hopes to see its rec'ommer.d.itions.Considered publicly. Ihc plan is built arounl “shifting existing resourc­ es to uses that migit be more appropriate right now." Rothwell sad. "Many of these suggestions are not meant to be permanent, but for what we’re going through right now.it makes sense,” he said. Shifting lhe focus toward business growth comes as the stale eyes a $6.2 billion budget gap. State budget director Chris Kolb described it “as bid, if not worse than, the Great Recession.” Among concerns are reve­ nue drops in major sectors of the economy, including retail, tourism and dining. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced a fur­ ther wave of reopening on Monday afternoon, including restaurants and bars at half-capacity beginning June 8. However, some other busi­ nesses — including gyms and hair salons — still do not know when they’ll be able to open. Stabilizing the business climate needs to be a priority as that happens, Rothwell said. That would include providing reasonable liability protections for businesses following the rules of reopening. Beyond that, the state needs to adapt to new business conditions following lhe monthslong statewide stay-at-home order and closure of non-essential businesses. Policy suggestions include: Request that the Michigan Department of Transportation and county road commissions prioritize projects considering economic impact and emphasize “shovel ready” proj­ ects. . Review tax structure to see if it aligns with the trends toward remote work and home delivery of goods and services. Identify how to accelerate certification pro­ grams for in-demand jobs. The last move, Rothwell said, could partic­ ularly help hundreds of thousands of laidoff hospitality workers. “We need to redeploy workers in the short­ term as much as we need to re-skill them,” Rothwell said. “A lol of folks arc not going to be able to go back to hart and restaurants, at least for a w hile, but there arc job openings in the grocery', logistics area and health care that weren’t in as high demand betore wc went into this crisis. Many of tnosc jobs don’t require any skills training. Getting people into lho^e jobs without bureaucracy should be a * c smd. l-ooking ahead, Rothwell said, businesses retention needs to be the priority tor Michigan, notably in out-state co»v‘lim.,n<rs where job growth and out-of-state business attraction comes at a slow er pace. “The focus needs to N on lining and growing existing Mich’*flU companies,” Rothwell said. . r , Specific policy suggesm^ torn Business U-aders for Michigan lho*-' goals include: .„ Redirect Community <Vmcnl Block (Irani dollars from inve^’ ,n infraslniclure to sup|x>rt small- and m 1-sized busi­ nesses. Focus on helping existing Michigan com­ moves toward building a budget with billions panies attract their critical suppliers to the of dollars in shortfalls. state. “We have to get the economic engine going Fund Pure Michigan travel advertising to again.” Johnston said. ”We are concerned support lhe state’s tourism industry. about additional taxes on the business com­ One way the supply chain is changing for munity.” the slate’s benefit. Rothwell said, is already Rothwell said his group doesn’t plan on playing out as manufacturers shift their pro­ making specific lax recommendations. duction to make personal protective equip­ Instead, he encouraged stale officials to con­ ment, like masks, which are then sold in-state. sider whether items like personal property The travel industry, meanwhile, is looking taxes, sales taxes and income taxes align with to boost spending in the sector, which gener­ how people are w orking and spending during ates at least S25 billion per year for Michigan's the pandemic. If those behaviors extend for a ecqnomy. Whitmer in October cut die $.173 year or longer, there could be structural million Pure Michigan travel promotion bud­ changes warranted, he said. Business leaders for Michigan also is get. Several points in the Business Leaders for looking at the state’s budget deficits, and it Michigan plan resonate with the Grand Rapids plans to discuss that further by mid-June, Area Chamber of Commerce, said Andy Rothw ell said. Johnston, vice president of government The goal with the recovery plan, he said, is affairs. to encourage lhe state to not just look at the Support for worker retraining is among program or spending side, but also consider diem, he said. “We think there’s going to be a revenue. great need for employees to reskill coming “We tried to make it as simple as we out of this pandemic.” could.” Rothwell said. ”... to stimulate ideas But the chamber will be watching any tax and provide a roadmap to get our economy changes coming out of the recommended going again.” reviews, he said, particularly as the state Running for a Political Office? We atJ-ad Graphics are ready to help you with your campaign needs. • Advertising • Yard Signs • Banners • Flyers • Self Mailers such as postcards and brochures • Inserts in the Newspaper • Specialty items such as pens, magnets, balloons, and more Call 269-945-9554 for more information �Page 14-Thursday June 4. 2020-The ■■ Banner ■ JL ■ Bj Gas line replacement continues in Hastings KEEP RIGHT____ S... T't . ■ *}&*&*& Signs guide drivers through the construction area along North Michigan Avenue. Construction cones are placed along North Michigan Avenue to provide a safer work environment lor Consumers Energy employces. Satanah Kaechele Contributing Writer Consumers Energy is replacing the aging parts of gas pipelines in Hastings as part of their long-term plan. In doing so, the safety and efficiency of the natural gas system will Ik* enhanced. The long-term plan, also known as the Enhanced Infrastructure Replacement Program, is said to l»e a 25-year project that began in 2012. Although replacement of power lines and regular maintenance i> done periodically in the city by Consumers Energy , the replacement of the gas lines is a long project, city manager Jerry Czarnecki said lhe project began this winter, but was paused because of the outbreak of COVID19. Czarnecki added. “Il’s a major project,” Czarnecki said. Certain streets have been blocked off to allow the Consumers Energy employees to work safely if needing to cross the streets. lhe city’s website reports that the project will span along Mill Street to Charles Street north and south, and from Jefferson Street to Kelly Street east and west. Although the work is on the gas lines. Czarnecki said some sidewalk and street replacement may occur due to the location of the gas lines. Because this is a Consumers Energy project, lhe work is not costing the city anything. The work is expected to be completed later this month. The exact completion date is unknown, but everything is going well. Czarnecki said. /Mong with the Consumers Energy work, the city is also doing some regular maintenance work around East Woodlawn Avenue. “We just have some repairs that wc are doing that came up because of the rain we had the last couple of weeks,” Czarnecki added. More information on the pipeline replacement project can be found at consumersenergy.com/company/reliability7 pipeline-upgrade. Some sidewalks are being replaced due to the location of gas pipelines below ground. Two Consumers Energy employees work to replace aging parts of the natural gas pipelines. FRESH FOOD FRIDAYS FREE TO ALL! PICK UP YOUR FAMILY BOX WEEKLY FREE fresh produce for anyone! Fridays, May 29-June 26 (Address Location 520 W South St, Hastings, Ml 490SB Hastings High School (Pich-Up Times 9.00-11:30 am Hastings High Schoo! pick up enter off Young Street by the tennis courts Nathalie Assembly of God 735 Reed St, Nwhvflte. MJ 49073 Freeport District Library 203 S Slate St Freeport. Ml 4932S 11:30-12:30 pm Yankee Springs Meadows MoLle Homes 1330 n Pattenon Rd, Wayiand, Ml A9J43 9:30-10:30 am 11:30-1:30 pm Yankee Springs Meadow Distribution by the inaiibcja.es tattimexe Terrace 14-37 and Sandy Circle by playground, Hastings, Ml 49058 9:30-10:30 am Meadow Stone Homes Barfiled & Ealsom Dr by playground, Hatties, Ml 49058 Vermont* Htc Bi We Church 250 N Main St, Vermontville, Ml 49056 Dowling Library 11765 L Dowling Rd, Hastings, Ml 49058 M.ddkrZ.;? Methodist Church Barr/s Resort Johnstown Township Ha? HI Church St, MHd-eyjile______________________ __________ 2375 S Chart ton Pa rl Rd, Hastings 13641 S. M-37 Highway, Battle Creek 9.30-10:30 am 11:30-12:30 pm 9 JO-10.30 am 10.30-11:30 am 11-11:30 am 9:30-10:30 am � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-06-11.pdf 037b6a6db7f4b3d0110b5b64aca8d092 PDF Text Text •.'AT Conditioning work, even expand outdoor dining See Story on Page 10 the s°ul See Editor111 Page 4 some ballgames, begin See Story on Page 11 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 1070490102590500541549058113421 CAR-RT LOT-C 005 C005 Richard Homering 421 N Totfee Dr Hastings Ml 49058-1134 6/30C020 9 47 00 AM VOLUME 167, No. 24 ANNER PRICE 75C Consumers Energy at work on local service upgrade Luke Froncheck Sftt# Writer Consumers Energy kas begun construction on a $9 million upgrade to jLs na|ura| gas distribution system in me Barry’ County service area, company officials said. Work is underway to rebuild the Woodbury' City Gale al 6771 Sa dlcbag Lake Road (M-66/M-43), Lake Odessa, Consumers Energy spokeswoman Debra Dtxld said. “The city gate will help regulate the flow of gas pressure so gas can be safety transported and delivered to customers, Dodd said. “It is also where we odorize the l0 provjje t|lc pungent smell, [since] in its natural state, it is odorless.” 'Die rebuild is a key component of the company's plan to modernize its natural gas system, she said. This facility, called a city gate, is where the Dr. Fergus Peacock (right) works with respiratory therapist Steward Talbot at utility reduces pressure of the natural gas Spectrum Health Pennock. from its transmission rate down to a rale that is safe to transport for consumer use. It will benefit the region and sen e Hastings, LMc Odessa, Woodland. Sunfield, Nashville. Vermontville, Mulliken, Grand Ledge. Portland, Ionia. Muir, Pewamo. Westphalia. Fowler and Saranac, according to Terry DeDoes, a Consumers Energy media Taylor Owens Dr. Fergus Peacock of Spectrum Health spokesman. Staff Writer Pennock said. DeDoes said another dty gale is being With more than 2 million confirmed cases “We are fortunate enough to be part of a installed in Grand Ledg*.. These two are of CO VID-I9 in the United States and more system that has all the right connections to the among 105 operated bv Consumers Energy. than 110,000 deaths, doctors and .scientists arc Mayo Clinic.” “ to its website • ' according racing to find effective treatments. The treatment involves taking plasma The lifespan of acitygdte is about 50 years, One of those treatments, known as conva­ donated from patients who have recovered according to company officials, so they have lescent plasma therapy, is being researched at from COVID-19 and giving infusions to peo­ has outlined a plan to replace these city gates Spectrum Health Pennock in Hastings. ple fighting the disease. The hope, officials before they reach 50 years in use. The study is led by the Mayo Clinic, which said, is that antibodies created by the previous The Lake Odessa facility was erected in the is partnering with hospitals across the United patient can help combat the disease in the new late 1960s and is nearing the end of its States, including Johns Hopkins Medicine patient. designed lifespan. Consumers Energy’s goal and the Spectrum Network. “It’s not often that we have a smaller See CONSUMERS, page 5 regional hospital enrolled in a trial like this,” Pennock participating in national COVID-19 study See STUDY, page 5 This aerial view shows the Consumers Energy property in Lake Odessa where work on the Woodbury City Gate upgrade is underway. The project to modernize the com­ pany’s natural gas system will include the installation of pressure regulators, gas odorization and 24/7 monitoring equipment. The plant will be located on the west side of M-66 at 6771 Saddlebag Lake Road. Maple Valley gives layoff notice to Hgih school principal Taylor Owens Staff Writer Facing nearly $500,000 in budget cuts, the Maple Valley Schools Board of Education voted Monday to lay off high school Principal Mike Knapp, effective this December. The superintendent and other administra­ tors will fill in for the principal, who would not be replaced during the budget shortfall. Knapp’s layoff, along with the layoff of high school Spanish Teacher Andrew Barna, is part of a list of cuts district officials are planning to make if the state proceeds with a funding proration. A budget proration is a cut incurred during the school’s current fiscal year, which can take place after funding is distributed, or even after the fiscal year ends. Maple Valley Superintendent Katherine Bertolini explained that the stale issues a pro­ ration if it is entering a budget deficit. Since the state is entering a deficit due to the COV1D-I9 pandemic, a proration has been triggered. Bertolini said she recently spoke with stale Sen. Tom Barrett, R-Potlerville, who said the size and method of the proration has yet to be determined. In addition to the proration, Michigan schools are facing an expected cut of $650 to $680 in per pupil funding. Barry County dis­ tricts received S8.111 per student in the most recent school year. ‘ rhere are loo many unknowns for us right now,” Bertolini said. The board voted 6-0 to lay off Knapp during a virtual meeting Monday. Bertolini said his position was selected because its duties could be spread out to other staff, and because it is the second most high­ est paid position in the district. Knapp has been in education for more than 25 years, and started at Maple Valley in early 2018. He had previously worked at Ionia Public Schools as high school assistant princi­ pal. “I’m shocked.” Knapp said Wednesday. But he added he isn’t the only educator going through this situation. rhe slate’s failure to get funding informa­ tion to sch<x)l districts has put administrators in a tough position, Knapp .said. “ I hey re just “If you’re going to social distance and do distance learning, and so much that’s new, that’s not the time to cut from schools. We need more resources now than we ever have, and we’re going to have less.” Maple Valley High School Principal Mike Knapp going on assumptions, and that’s what they have to do. The slate’s really got to fix it. “If you’re going to social distance and do distance learning, and so much that’s new, that’s not the time to cut from schools. We need more resources now than we ever have, and we’re going to have less. “It’s going to be very difficult if schools don’t get the funds.” Knapp said he is going to move forward with the approach that schools will receive additional funding from the slate. But, at the same time, he is trying to make a rallying cry for people to tell their legisla­ tors that schools need more funding. “Legislators have to see that this is a con­ cent.” Knapp said, “The squeaky wheel gels the oil.” If cuts do need to happen, the duties of the principal will be shared by other administra­ tive and office staff, including high school dean of students and Athletic Director Landon Wilkes, along with Bertolini herself. “This is incredibly difficult to do because we’re all going to have to carry a heavier load,” Bertolini said. Knapp served as principal and interim superintendent after previous superintendent Michelle Falcon resigned in the summer of 2018. “It’s doable, but it’s not going to be an easy job.” he said. , “It’s going 10 rough, ’ Bertolini said. For her. the most difficult aspect will be trying to apply her own expectations of excel­ lence, while being stretched so thin. The pandemic will add more unknown fac­ tors. Bertolini said state officials have not yet said whether certain aspects of the job. such as evaluations, will be required this year. If so, they may need to be contracted out, Bertolini said. lite layoff of Andrew Barna, who started al Maple Valley in the spring of last year, will be effective this summer. He was hired after the Spanish teacher’s position was vacant for several months without any applicants. Barna also was highlighted in the documentary' “Heartbeat of the Community: Recruiting and Retaining Teachers in Rural Schools,*’ which was filmed, in part, al Maple Valley last year. Bertolini said both Knapp and Bama’s lay- See PRINCIPAL, page 2 Middleville picks new village manager split among the three finalists. Village Greg Chandler President Charlie Pullen polled council Staff Writer The Middleville Village Council has members at the start of Tuesday’s special made its choice for its next village manager. meeting to rank the three finalists from top The council Tuesday voted unanimously to bottom. Ripley was the first choice for Cramer, to extend an employment offer to Aerie Ripley, currently the assistant city manager Lytle and Trustee Ed Schellinger. Pullen. and downtown development authority President Pro Tempore Sherry Running and director for the City of Alma. The offer is Trustee Amanda Fisk ranked Patricia Rayl, contingent on Riple>' Passing a background former village manager in Colon and former check and successful negotiation of an city manager in Auburn, as their first choice. Trustee Phil Van Noord named Mark employment contract. Ripley, who has been with Alma for the Borden, former city manager in Carson City past 21 years, would replace Duane Weeks, and executive director of Anesthesia who is retiring at the end of this month after Associates of Ann Arbor, as his first choice. However, after further discussion, coun­ five years as village manager and 14 years as a village empl°>ee- Ripley was selected cil members gravitated toward Ripley as from among three finalists who were inter­ their preferred candidate, and all seven viewed by the council Saturday. members approved a motion by Cramer to “I liked his management experience. 1 offer the job to Ripley. liked his zoning and planning experience. I As assistant city manager. Ripley played liked his code enforcement experience,” a pivotal role in the redevelopment of Council Trustee Mjke Cramer said of Alma's opera house, which was gutted by a Ripley. “I felt like he s handled a lot of hur­ devastating fire in October 2010. He and dles in his experi<’JJcc' I just fell he was a other city officials worked together with Alma College on a redevelopment plan that stronger candidate­ Trustee Mike Fyl . Praised Ripley for his raised $65 million in donations and attract­ range of experience in dealing with various ed* a SL5 million Michigan Economic slate and federal agencies, as well as his Development Corporation grant. “It took almost 10 years to gel that projability to write gra‘‘,seel io come to fniilion," Riplcj said during “He’s had cxpef,c.nce the Michigan Slate Housing (Development] Authority, the his interview’ Saturday. "Thai building sa there lor n long time, [as we weiej tn mg to hPA, Michigan development and M1X)T.” , ,e s " ‘hten many find the right way to get that thing put back grants, and I do bel^Ve we’re going to need a lot of grant because of what’s U The college. which now owns the build going on (fiscallywe’re not going ing. dedicaU’d the rebuilt structure m get as much fundl g ,om state or federal October 2019. « 'lh n?'“* 0,1 '’’‘‘.'"“'" ^he and .student housing tor the co eg<. governments.” . ... At first, it l<-M»k*le C0UI‘cil might upper 1 Joon. ____________ Ripley also worked closely with the parks and recreation commission and airport authority in Alma. He was involved in efforts to develop the Fred Meijer Heartland Trail, a nonmotorized path on a former railbed connecting Alma to Greenville. In addition, Ripley stepped up home inspections, particularly of rental units, in the city. Last year, he said, he visited every single rental unit in the city. Ripley told council members he wouldn’t be a manager content to sit behind a desk, but will gel out there to help staff when needed. “I’m willing to do what it takes to make sine the community is moving forward, and that |one| department isn’t less or more important than another department, that we’re all one for the community,” he said. In a separate action Tuesday, the council authorized Pullen to negotiate terms of an employment contract with Ripley, with a salary not to exceed $72,000, Five years ago. Middleville offered a contract to John Konior of Urbandale, Iowa, to become village manager after the previ­ ous manager. Rebecca Fleury, accepted an offer to become Battle Creek’s city manag­ er. However, the village and Koniot were unable to reach agreement on a contract. The village council later offered the posi­ tion to Weeks, who at the lime was director of public works for the village. Weeks. 62. will work his last day at the village office Friday •It’s been a joy, and I look forward to seeing what happens in the coining years,” Weeks told council members in his final report as manager. �Page 2 — Thursday. June 11. 2020 — The Hastings Banner PRINCIPAL, continued from page 1 offs were chosen after great deliberation and painful examination. “A layoff is not a firing and ha* absolutely nothing to do with perFwiance.” Bertolini said. Barna’s position was selected because its elimination will have the least effect on stu­ dent programming. Spanish I will not be offered next sear, since students can get caught up in future years. Advanced Spanish courses will be taught online. If Maple Valle) receives more funding than expected, the school may be able to reverse the layoffs, or other potential budget cuts. But Bertolini said it’s better to let staff know about the layoffs as soon as possible, so they can look for new jobs during the summer. 'To do this in October would be a very cruel thing to do,** Bertolini said. If the school receives more funding, Knapp's rehiring would be find on the list, she said. . .. The layoffs are part of the first tier of a three-tiered system to initiate cuts under cer­ tain budeetarv conditions. Tier 1 is based of a proration to the current school year, and Tier II cuts will take place if a proration occurs both this year and next sear. A third tier accounts for prorations to both years, in addition to further funding cuts. Included in Tier 1 is the elimination of three bus routes, police liaison officers, and cuts to savings for technology, transportation, dual enrollment and supplies totaling $496,642. The second tier includes paraprofessional layoffs, additional teacher layoffs, additional bus route reductions, an early retirement incentive and an overall salary reduction. Tier III would eliminate athletics, transpor­ tation. along with additional layoffs and the reduction of academic programming to core classes. The board also voted to finalize contracts with the principals of Fuller Street Elementary7 and Maplcwoog School. Cindy Trcbian. who is retiring this month after 30 years in educa­ tion. had been the principal of both buildings for the last three years. Trent Harvey, who served as ascending principal of both schools, will be now be the principal of Fuller Street. Joel Smith, the for­ mer assistant principal of Hastings Area Schools, will be the principal of Maplewood. Board Trustee Tim Burd cast the only vole against finalizing their contracts, and he spe­ cifically questioned the hiring of Smith. ’‘We’re in a position where we’re hiring a principal and laying off another principal in the same week.” Burd said. He said closing Maplewood should be on die first tier of cuts, as it is “the lowest hang­ ing fruit.*’ in the budget. “Nobody wants to say that we’re going to close a school.*’ he said. He adt^ed that the district has several hun­ dred fewycr students now than it did when, the M3pJe<wod was closed the first lime. According to mischoolsdata.org, Maple Valley had 1.238 students in the 2011-2012 school year, and 970 in 2019-2020. Burd said he did not want to hire Smith, only to lay him off in a future round of budget cuts that would close Maplewood. Burd went back and forth on the issue with trustee Justin Keiffer, who did not agree that Maplewood is “the lowest hanging fruit’’ in the budget. “If we were to attempt to consolidate to two buildings, we would have to cut many of the resources we’ve built up that were in the black.” Keiffer said. Closing Maplewood, especially after using bond mones to improve it in 2013. would lead to a rapid decline in student count. Keiffer .rk-v are checking signatures anZ^^’IdOn-fbe’ieVC Grrg chandler ra;’ivetl «> home ’ ,he Previous °W"Cr *’f Uaf-S than^Ov'^ °wned llo,nc fw more “c de? a'’11 >C3rS ae°in a ftne X y’’’ W according to Ypmasnidu • B‘dtiinore Township clerk. w«Xat^-'a’d,,,cm,VUpi,f,<:rshc the htll^Sled l,lc fact Chat he had received Sheriff's «>■ ,l,c Bart>' Counl> Maple Valley High School Principal Mike Knapp is on the list of layoffs and cuts the district will have to make in the face of a state funding proration. said. Keiffer added that the building’s utilities have been made more efficient since it was shut down the first lime. Burd replied that closing the school would cut more than utilities; it would save on administration, office staff and janitorial ser­ vices. “I think there’s much more value than just the brick-and-mortar of the building,” trustee Kristen Miller added. “Those two buildings connect our two communities into one dis­ trict. I think we would cut off our nose to spite our face if we cut off our community.” Board President Brian Green said the COVID-19 crisis is not a fundamental change to the lax base of the district; it is a large, but temporary, bump in the road. Bertolini said Wednesday the funding shortfalls are currently expected for two years, and the economy has already shown signs of bouncing back. “I don’t want to do anything that perma­ nently changes the fabric of the district, unless we have no other choice,” she said. Closing Maplewood is a last resort for the district, and would not take place without extensive input from the community. Bertolini said. During the meeting Monday, Burd main­ tained the bottom line is the fact that the dis­ trict has fewer students, which is not tempo­ rary. He also said the lack of communication from the stale on the budget does not bode well for schools. “How mans times have we got news from the stale that actually turned out to be good news?” Burd asked. “When somebody don’t want to tell you something, it’s going to be bad news;” He said the board needs to figure out die amount the district would save if it closes Maplewood. Bertolini asked the members of the public attending the meeting to write to their elected representatives, to ask them to provide more funding for schools. A template for a letter is available al the school's website, mvs.k!2. mi.us. (Printed below) Trustee Craig Lackscheide was absent from the meeting. The board will vote on the proposed 2020­ 2021 budget during a meeting at 7 p.m. June 22, currently planned to take place in the high school auditorium. Only the first 35 attendees will be allowed to attend, due to social distancing guidelines. School officials are looking into ways to broadcast the meeting so more citizens can attend virtually. “We’re in a position where we’re hiring a principal and laying off another principal in the same week." Maple Valley School Board Trustee Tim Burd Maple Valley template letter to legislators Dear Legislators, As community members our top priority is making sure our students are educated in a healthy and safe environment. Therefore, in response to the COVID-19 crisis, we fol­ lowed Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s Executive Order to close school buildings and end face-to-face learning for the remain­ der of this school year. This was a difficult but important decision. The move to “distance learning” has pre­ sented our district with numerous challeng­ es. Despite living in the digital age. not all ot the district is connected to the internet. Approximately 28 percent have internet access, but not to an online learning stan­ dard. Plus many of us do not have suitable computers or tablets. Many daycare facili­ ties are closed and we are now' required to balance work, childcare and helping our children navigate learning iron) home. Despite these ongoing challenges our pyblic schools have risen to the occasion. Chir administrators and stall have adjusted to this new reality and tackled the challenge with dedication and desire. Furthermore, district leaders and teachers continue lo improve our distance learning systems as they understand what methodologies work best for us. One challenge we cannot overcome with­ out y our help is fimding.The May Consensus Revenue Estimating Conference confirmed Absentee ballot application vexes sheriff our fears; stale and local budgets have been decimated. Revenue deficits are in the bil­ lions and we cannot, as a school district or as a slate, cut our way out. Without immedi- j ate assistance, services to children will be reduced and our kids will continue to pay the price. Although we appreciate the finan­ cial assistance the federal government has provided lo date, the limitations on those funds has made it difficult to address our ongoing financial needs. We need increased flexibility to apply those funds to this already decimated budget. On behalf of the 1,065 students and staff in the Maple Valley School District, I urge you to provide financial relief lo our stale and local budgets in two ways. First, amend the current CARES Act to allow for maxi­ mum flexibility for slates to properly fund important slate programs. Second, immedi­ ately begin work on the next CARES Act to ensure our families remain safe and healthy and jump start our economy. Third, provide us with increased flexibility this fall as wc work lo address the demands of education in the times of COVID-19. Lastly, please set the student count for the 2020 -- 2021 school year based upon the 2019 - 2020 student count. We appreciate your leadership on this critical matter. Please do not hesitate to call me with questions or if I can be of assis­ tance. weekend, la* State Jocelyn h8 " 10 vr";c-zc Secrelary of stimulus fund.''n'on’s* ** uT, cations to al 11° n,;lil absCn*Tn ’Pph‘ “The <; ^"leivd voters tn Michigan. over our ennr?ti,,> 01 ,hc Stale has ju,"Pcd and sent out 'U'l0"-'l|y «lcclcd cou,ll>’ clerks tion< I . r -,rilUrid 7.4 million ballot applicaulation ofM^ iS,wl ■"l,is message. “The pop. ulritmn of M,chieai)|han |0 mjlli()n 1 can t te|| . a( tj)ere ;ire on| 2 5 dd 1 Thk °Ple in ,css lhan 18 years J n Creaies n problem with sheriff’s wwXITthc wc are citv and n *"ating voter fraud. Our township, n.n;u»Un.t'V e,t-*rks have the most up-todoes not '°lcr lisls’Our StUtC obv‘ous,y -i?v™a,.\nO h’ls been Baltimore Township c er - since 2004,hearj about the social media post and met with lhe sheriff Saturday. She did some sleuthing lo find out what had hap­ pened to Scott and why a ballot with his name was sent out. Scott had never registered for a driver’s license in So^h Carolina after he left Michigan, she Said If he had regislered for a Fvv'nsc in that state. it would have triggered Michigan s qualify voter file software to indicate he was il0 |0I)ger a resident of the state. b 1 hat would have canceled his voter regis- ’ration for Baltimore Township and that addiess,” Ypma said. Furthermore, Barry County never received a death certificate for Scott alter his death, ^pma said. Once she was able to confirm Scott was dead. Ypma immediately removed his name from the township’s voter registra­ tion list. “I’ve never heard of anything this bizarre with ballots. Never.” said Ypma, who is for­ mer president of the Barry County Clerks Association. Concerns that the names of dead people remain on voter registration rolls and could receive absentee ballot applications have gen­ erated lawsuits - such as one filed last December against the city of Detroit by the public Interest Legal Foundation, a conserva­ tive organization that accused the city of fail­ ing to maintain accurate rolls. The suit, which has not been resolved, alleged the city had more than 2,500 people who had been con­ firmed as deceased yet were still registered to vote. Leaf echoed those concerns in another Facebook post. 1 never said that a crime was committed. Wc sheriffs are tasked with investigating voter fraud,” he wrote in that post. “The facts are that I received a ballot application for some­ one who has not lived here for over 20 years and is deceased. Hie potential for fraud is there. I understand that it’s a ballot applica­ tion. I hope that I am the only one who gets one sent to their residence for someone who is deceased.” Ypma said she believes the proper safe­ guards are in place to prevent voter fraud. “I am confident in the system.” Thomapplc Township Clerk Cindy Wilshire agreed, saying the QVF software would make fraud difficult. “The only way 1 see it could happen is if the deceased passed just after they returned their ballot,” Wilshire wrote in an e-mail to The Banner. “And even then, the system would reject the ballot once the death was processed through the system. QVF is live, so the deaths reach the system within a few days. i, col)|d l«ah,XP-^twoman for <he ■rnKy ' J-ICC, doesn’t see her Secretary ol SU<C 5 c ba||o|s en masiC office mailing ou . different from to all Mich’gJn applications that ^se^Sous^overtbc ^bsent-vmer appHcat^are;^ voters by botf organizations ahead advocacy “ . 1||(j fhe application has of m u hie on’ the Department of State •t'l.VJfor years." Wimmer wrote in an website tor yeai». ""•In this'w. thestatewide mailing of appli­ cations will impmve the voter fist, as election clerks will be able to use mad that te. been returned to clean the registration list fol ow­ ing the appropriate verification and waiting period." Wimmer wrote in her e-mail. Absentee ballot applications that are sub­ mitted must have a signature that matches the signature on the registration list to be co^’ ‘ cred valid. A valid signature would then prompt lhe mailing of lhe ballot itself, an ballot envelopes must also be signed with a matching signature, Wimmer wrote. “Forging someone else’s signature on an application and submitting it to receive a bal­ lot is a crime. It is rarely attempted,’ Wimmer wrote. At the Barry Township meeting Tuesday night. Leaf expressed confidence in the clerks and the voting system in Barry County. And his recommendation to voters? “The best thing we can do still for voting is show­ ing up al the precinct where they can check your ID and make sure who you arc.” County ©ages’ to end remote meetings Rebecca Pierce Editor When the BarrjCountv commissioners met Tuesday, the first iteln after the call to order was an invocation by Chairwoman Heather Wing that included a plea to the Creator that “the time of Zoc<n meetings be past us quickly.” Commissioners have been meeting electronically via Zoxu since April 14 - when executive orden prohibited public gatherings to prevent possible spread of COVID-19. They have been struggling to conduct those sessions ever since. “Anybody got any idea when we’re going to be able meet in person again?” Jon Smclker asked during the time set aside for commissioners to speak at the conclusion of the meeting. “The short answer is ‘no,’” County Administrator Michael Brown replied, adding that he’s been seeking guidance from a variety of sources bul has yet to find any solutions to overcome technology challenges and social distancing requirements. In lhe commissioners’ chambers at thc courthouse, “we’re challenged with lhe social distancing part,” Brown said. Once social distances of 6 feet are established between commissioners and staff, “we quickly run out of room for lhe public,” he said. “How do we hold a meeting for the public without the public being there?” If the board moved to a larger venue, it would lose the ability to livestream meetings. Brown noted. As it stands, audio connectivity during their remote meetings has been problematic. When voles were being cast, sonic commissioners could not be heard when they cast their votes. Tuesday, when commissioners were considering approving the ballot language lo request funds to pay for a new county jail and sheriff’s facility. Commissioner Ben Geiger told the others: Tm having trouble hearing Hoot (Gibson) and Dan (Parker). Is anybody else having that trouble?” “I’m not having trouble. I ji^st can’t hear ‘cm,’’ Smclker replied. “Is Hoot muted?” Wing asked. “I’m not sure about Dan; maybe his earbuds are not plugged in all the way?” Aaron Staines, the county’s IT network administrator, said he would check on Gibson’s microphone. ‘Thanks, Aaron. Check on Dan, too,” Wing replied. There was silence, then gargling sounds. “OK, so you’re unmuted now,” Staines told Gibson. “Can you hear me?” “Oh, yeah,” Wing replied. “Thanks.” Next, Parker spoke. "Can you hear me?" “I can you hear you, Dan,” Wing said, "it’s just not very loud.” T’ll try to talk real loud. ... They’re working on it,” Parker replied. “Now discussion," Wing said. “The discussion being what?” Parker said. Later, when Sheriff Dar Leaf spoke, he said it sounded like he was in an echo chamber. But, beyond the challenges presented by audio connections, some commissioners said they miss the in-person interaction. At their May 5 meeting, commissioners decided to hold off on approving a request from Leaf for compensatory lime for essential employees at the sheriff’s department. When the request came up Tuesday, they postponed it again. Brown said he has received calls from County jail tax request on the Nov. 3 ballot Rebecca P>crce When Barry Couniv vo«R g0 10 lhc po s on Nov. 3 they will an«vera’e<luest for up ,0 S25 million .0 build X"'and sheriff's facility. On Tuesday. Ihe Barff CoU"!y ?Oan* °f Commissioners approved lhc ba lanB“a8e 10 for general obligauo" b°ndS f°r “ Maximum of 26 vein; . Thc levy is esiimmed * °17’2 "I firSt year and an average of O.^" in.subs^;en! “"til .he bonds T"**' b°ard ComZnHea,,,<!rWinrf; de.em.ined '-omnussioners have ' ,f h0*'hcP^twi|lmani^^m01ishinfi L 1}ley hst three nn«ibil»,,es' Pt:rno,lsn,n8 h' «i«ing facility”.“ nCW jnd “nd sheriff’s Xe on '"a‘ aCql,,nn8 ^■«ingbui^U8,,|^a; nd sheriffs office goal, thev “ ‘ J o P'°',de. '■■"l’a"C':d security and v'r ' “ .X"' and syslc,ns’ ■^ditional cana-v5’ and Updated UVAC and m' ll",1 .vte"’'” in,Pr0Vcd We for inmate pr^,Ca in/. jcconimcxfimons for offices, and space for information technol­ ogy systems. In other action, the commissioners: • Approved pre-paid invoices of $4.4 mil­ lion, claims totaling $60,645, and commis­ sioner reimbursements for mileage of $114. • Approved submitting grant applications to the stale Office of Community Corrections for the adult drug court, sobriety court, and Swift and Sure Sanctions Probation program. The grant requests arc seeking $ 124,993 more lhan last year for a pretrial program, more funding for drag and alcohol testing, and a relapse prevention group to provide services to lhe adult sjxxiality courts and probationers with the stale Department of Corrections. • Approved the collection of summer taxes, to be levied July 1. Taxable value in the coun­ ty increased this year, higher than the rate of inflation, so the Headlee rollback had to be applied. Equalization Director Tim Vandermark said. The levy is 5.3166 mills after the rollback. • Agreed to cancel the next Committee of the Whole meeting on June 16 for a lack of agenda items. The next county board meeting will be at 9 a.m. June 23 via remote access. elected officials and department heads asking if other staff outside sheriff’s department would be eligible for compensation, but they don’t have a good handle on how many employees this would affect and how many hours this would involve. Postponing action on lhe request allows them the time they need lo put all the necessary information together and go back to the board with a proposal,for its consideration, he said. “I-would like-'to wait until we can be together,” Commissioner Vivian Conner said, “if that’s what the other commissioners would like.” Smclker agreed. “That’s my thoughts on it. I’d just as soon meet in person on this.” The problem, Conner said, is whether it was appropriate for her lo make a motion “that’s so open.” “Robert’s Rules of Order wants us to have a definite timeline when we can put that on here,” Wing replied. “But Robert’s Rules of Order didn’t have to deal with COVID-19 and not being in person to have decent discussions. “As many times as we’ve met through Zoom meetings, we continue to have technology issues, and I think that this discussion, in particular, is one we should have when we don’t have that interruption.” The commissioners unanimously voted to postpone their discussion about lhe comp time for employees at the sheriff’s department and other departments until commissioners can meet in person. “It s not that I want to keep kicking this can down the road.” Wing concluded. “I just want to be able to talk about it without technology giving us grief." Mm | Hasting^ Banner on F a c ebo o k t o, keep up tp> date until the new edition pi'intedi �fho Hastings Banner — Thursday. June 11, 2020 — Pago 3 Salons, barbershops °Pe doors Monday T . Bridge Magazine 1 ose ^niggling with shaggy locks amid nnrtr Tinc: ^elp *s °n the horizon. And in u m Mi<*igan. you can hit the gym or catch a summer blockbuster. at iCrs^naicarv services such as hair, tanning . u na,i salons and massage and tattoo parr?rs' can reopen on June 15 statewide. Gov. *MC^Cn Whitmer announced last Friday. More than 30 counties in northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula will enter Phase 5 of m SU|,CX economic reopening plan on June *0. allowing movie theaters, fitness centers and salons to reopen. Capacity limits on mdoor and outdoor gatherings wil, also be expanded. 1» the current trajectory of coronavirus cases continues. Whitmer said, thc whole state will also be able to follow northern Michigan's lead and enter Phase 5 “in a few weeks.” “That is my fervent hope, that's always been our goal, to safely reengage. So please do not drop your guard now*,” Whitmer said at a press conference announcing the changes Friday. “Gel ready, but stay vigilant.” Whitmer has said restrictions could be re-implemented if pandemic conditions wors­ en. The Phase 5 of reopening begins Wednesday in Manistee. Wexford, Missaukee. Roscommon. Benzie, Grand Traverse. Kalkaska, Crawford. Leelanau, Antrim, Otsego, Montmorency. Alpena, Charlevoix. Cheboygan. Presque Isle. Emmet. Gogebic. Ontonagon, Houghton, Keweenaw. Iron, Baraga, Dickinson, Marquette, Menominee, Coronavirus cases In Michigan rose by 171 Wednesday. / straight day of fewer than 200 new confirmed cases. Michigan now has ??., ,rrr,ed cases. Deaths attributed to coronavirus rose 13, increasing the stat0^lth° to 5,711- The seven-day average is 178 new cases, the second day in a row averages under 200. Delta, Alger, Schoolcraft, Luce. Mackinac, and Chippewa will enter Phase 5 of reopen­ ing. That means: • Personal care services and gyms can reopen. • Entertainment venues such as bowling alleys, movie theaters, concert halls, night clubs and sports arenas will be allowed to reopen. If it’s indoors, it’s limited to 250 peo­ ple. Outdoor venues are limited to 25 percent capacity or 500 people, whatever is smaller. Indoor gatherings of up to 50 people w ill be permitted, as long as people can follow’ sixfeet social distancing guidelines. • Outdoor gatherings of up to 250 people will be permitted, with social distancing rules. • Outdoor park5 Rational facilities can be open. Public p°o can be open but are limited to 50 per^nt caP^ity outdoors and 25 percent capacity • People will SUH required to wear a mask or another face-covering indoors if they’re not in their home, unless they can’t medically tolerate it. Some of those rollbacks alSo will apply (o the rest of Michigan beginning June 15, Beginning then, spa5’ a,r and nail salons; tattoo, piercing and massage parlors; and other personal care services will be allowed to reopen statewide. Those activities will look different than they did pre-COVID: All businesses, includ­ ing personal care services, entertainment ven- ties .ind gyms, will have to abide by strict safety precautions lo attempt to control lhe spread of the virus. For example, hair salons will be required to separate workstations by 6 feel, throw away magazines and other shared items that can’t be disinfected, and limit lhe number of people in lhe wailing area to allow for social distanc­ ing. Most businesses, including salons, gyms, cleaners and repair services, will be required to keep logs of clients lo help with contact tracing. . “Here’s the bottom line Michigan: The sac­ rifice that we've made is paying off,” Whitmer said. The state has lived under broad restric­ tions since March 24. when the first stay-athome order went into effect. It was lifted on Monday to allow outdoor gatherings of up to UK) people and reopen bars, restaurants and retail stores. Michigan has been hit harder than many other stales by thc coronavirus. The state cur­ rently has thc ninth-highest number of cases in the nation and the sixth highest number of deaths. But Michigan's rate of new coronavirus cases is slowing and its rate of testing and hospital capacity is increasing. New daily cases have largely been dropping since its l>eak in mid-April and thc percent of positive tests have been below lhe 10 percent thresh­ old recommended by the World Health Organization for weeks. Still, both Whitmer and Chief Medical Executive Dr. Joncigh Khaldun urged caution —- wearing masks, washing hands, social dis­ tancing and staying home when sick. "COVID-19 will be with us for some time, and we have to get used to living with this virus amongst us in the safest way possible. 'This is a marathon, it is not a sprint,” Khaldun said. City approves increased water and sewer rates Savanah Kacchele Contributing Writer After extensive discussion and a tied motion to table lhe item, lhe updated rates for “What we needed to do is to get our rates in the waler distribution and sewer disposal services water side to a point where we could sustain the were approved Monday by the Hastings City Council. lead replacement programs because that is going Staff from Baker Tilly, a consulting firm, to be very, very expensive for us as a system.” reviewed the rales and thc 20-year plan for both thc water and wastew ater plants and rec­ Jerry Czarnecki, city manager ommended an increase. The recommendation was made so the city will be able to pay back waste water treatment bonds, prepare for the lead service replacement, and prepare for thc anticipated maThtenance projects in • die 'hext -20 years.1 Thu;city is* in Year 2*of the1 rate also wondered if the rates would be on the bill kind of stuff,” Czameck?said. “That’s been study, and the increase this year is similar to in time for July 1 if the item w ere tabled. $10 for a long time so that was the feeling for last year’s increase, city manager Jerry Czarnecki answered yes to both, and city moving that one up.” Czarnecki said. clerk Jane Saurman staled that as Jong as the Mayor Tossava compared tlie city’s fee for “We do have a couple years here at the bills are printed by June 24. they would be a fencing permit to lhe fee in Nashville, w here beginning where our water rates are making ready lo go by July 1. his granddaughter lives. bigger jumps than what our sewer nites are. Saurman explained that the July usage “She tried to get a fence permit, and in the and that’s because we are trying to anticipate doesn't get billed until September, and thc bill village of Nashville, it could cost you $200 in preparation for the lead service replace­ in July will be for the May lo June usage. over there,” he said. “So, I think $25 is pretty So, lhe bill going out July 1 will still have cheap” ment.’’ Czarnecki added during the telecon­ ference meeting. “If you remember, the state the June rales on it, Czarnecki said. “1 definitely think it’s reasonable. 1 just “So, we don’t really need to worry if wc wondered why it jumped so much and what it is requiring that when wc start doing lead service replacement, the system has to pay for don’t gel the rates set July 1 because they was based on.” McNabb-Stange said. that; none of that cost can go onto the individ­ won’t be reflected in a bill until later,” council Increased fees include city map from plot­ member Brenda McNabb-Stange said. ual property owner.” ter, from $15 to $25; pavement cut permits, The motion to tabic the item for two weeks from $140 to $150; driveway pennits (initial), Council member Bill Redman expressed resulted in a 4-4 lie, with council members from $95 to $100; driveway permits (recon­ concern for lhe increase in the water rates. “These are 16 percent increases,” he said. Jim Cary, John Resseguic. Redman and struction), from $70 to $75; and fence per­ “If we have a 16 percent increase this year Bowers casting yes votes; and Al Jarvis, mits, from $10 lo $25. A $25 fee was also and a 16 percent increase next year, in six Maupin-Moore, McNabb-Stange, along with added for vacant/foreclosure property regis­ years, it’s going to double lo where it is now." Mayor Tossava, casting no votes. Council tration. Czarnecki explained that after the 16 per­ member Don Smith was absent. • Approved the easement to allow “Well if it’s tied, it automatically goes Consumers Energy to relocate a power line cent increase this year and next year, the rate will drop to almost match the sewer rate, down,” Redman said. “I think we need to onto city property and still be able to perfonn know what other cities are charging their peo­ required maintenance. Currently, thc power­ which is around 2.5 percent. "What we needed to do is to get our rates in ple for this.” line runs through the back of a few properties Saurman informed the council that with the on East South Street, Czarnecki said. the water side to a point where we could sus­ tain the lead replacement programs because rate change, the average household monthly “They arc proposing the relocation of that that is going to be very, very expensive for us increase would be less than $8. power line, but to do that,” Czarnecki said, “it A motion was then made by Resseguic to cuts through on the comer of the city’s prop­ as a system,” he added. The rales never experienced a large increase approve lhe rate changes. The motion was erty that is south of those properties.” in previous years due to the lead service approved, with Redman and Bowers casting After clarifying that lhe powerline is sup­ replacement cost not resting entirely on lhe ’no’ votes. plying power to a property beyond the current /n other business, the council: properties the line cuts through, McNabbsystem. Czarnecki said. . • Excused the absence of council member Stange agreed with the relocation. “Now because the state is saying the munic­ ipality has to pay for this lead service replace­ Don Smith. “I don’t mind them crossing a little bit of • W;us informed that council member Don our property as opposed to going behind a ment. we need to start preparing for that, and, in order to do that, we have to see some of Bovvers was present for the last two meetings, bunch of other people s properties that are these jumps here at the beginning and then >t but unable to talk due to technical difficulties. getting no use of that line, she said. • Received a recommendation by council will level off because we will be able to main­ The approved easement for 15 feet on each member Brenda McNabb-Slange to update side of the new power fine will allow tain the system we have." he said. Council member Don Bowers said the city the city website to include the newly devel­ Consumers Energy crews to perform mainte­ has high water rates compared to other munic- oped plans and to include information for nance and control vegetation underneath the j “ j„ Czarnecki explained that from the electronic meetings. line. “One tiling I found out from lhe webinar I n t-Jr Tilly study, the water rates were quite Tlie next regular city council meeting is E nnd iL “ewer rates are in the middfe listened to today, when we do these electronic scheduled for June 22 at 7 p.m. meetings, we need to post the information on According to a study done by a third party. lhe front page of our website or a very distin­ „ cwtne this, we needed to bring our guishable link, and I don’t think we arc doing n"'n‘p Jthlt we could one. prepare for the that,’’ she said. “We need to make sure that ? .Xnditures that we have, and two. we information is more prominent.” • Approved Die resolution for updated fees on the low end when it came to water. for the various services that are provided for Czarnecki said |abIe (he lhe citizens. These news rates will be effective Redman . collect more infonna- July 1. Many of the fees have remained the item for two-eeU^-' ies same, with only a few rising $5 or $10. don regarding the city Czarnecki said. “We tried to keep everything pretty much The next board of education meeting for consistent with what it’s been in the past,” he Hastings Area Schoo ’ will bcglll al 7 p.m. ........ added. “We want to provide lhe services for Monday, June 29, in “,c COn>n>ons area of the lhe residents, but we also want to make sure middle school. .. , we are not overcharging them, either.” citizens about hiU)ges would be effecNormally, the inects the ,hird The pr«P»y-d” njid Tossava asked >f the McNabb-Stange questioned why the fence Monday of lhe niomh; this mouth’s meet­ tive July । whelher Czarnecki be able permit increased so much, going from $10 to ing was moved ult^d 1 ° Wccks to ^ow the i«-m information to the councd $25. board to meet in . “It takes people’s time to review the pro lhe meeting n ** v,cwcd v,a befor^hen"^ Maupin-Moore cess, talk with the property owner and that Facebook Live. Hastings school board meeting moved New raising m Sih® works The railing on North Jefferson Street next to the Walldorff Brewpub & Bistro is being replaced due to the unsafe conditions caused by the rust on the aging railing. The City of Hastings is paying an estimated $35,000 to replace the railing. A safety barrier has been put up to enhance the safety of pedestrians while the railing is being replaced. (Photo by Savanah Kaechele) Running for a Political Office? We at J-ad Graphics are ready to help you with your campaign needs. • Advertising • Yard Signs • Banners • Flyers • Self Mailers such as postcards and brochures • Inserts in the Newspaper • Specialty items such as pens, magnets, balloons, and more - Call 269-945-9554 for more information _____ �A time to search the soul A global appeal from a front lawn in town More than 130 clergy members of the Episcopal Church Diocese from East and West Michigan signed a letter, a statement of grief, for those who lost their lives in racialized violence. That letter appears on Page 5 today. In Hastings, a sma11 9royP ^as kept vigil in tribute and agreement with that stated expression of grief. They hope their peaceful expression of support will serve as a call to people of faith, as the letter says, to the work uof reconciliation as we stand with those whose tears, hopes, and cries for justice can transform and liberate us all.” Do you remember? One of three five-generation sets Banner June 15. 1950 Five generations - John Bower, Lake Odessa’s oldest resident, will celebrate his 100th birthday tomorrow, June 16, by greeting friends and relatives at the lome of his son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. [Charlotte] George Barker. M023 First St. Enjoying good health. “Grandpa" Bower, as he is familiarly known by many, attributes his long life to clean living, no smoking or drinking, and early to bed, early to rise - which al least makes a man healthy and wise, but not always wealthy. Bower is the only living child of a family of six, and four of his children are living. They are: Mrs. Barker and Mrs. J.J. [Emma] Griebel, of Lake Odessa; Mrs. Arvilla Murty of Grand Rapids; and son Tello of Big Rapids. Another son, Merton, died five years ago. There are two other sets of five Have you generations in the family besides the one shown above: John Bower, Mrs. G Barker, Mrs. Myron Hancock of Holt, Robert Hancock and son, Clinton, of Big Rapids. The other is John Bower, Mrs. J.J. Griebel, Keith Baumgardner, Mrs. Gilbert Totten and daughter Laura of Red Bank, N.J., who expect to be present for the birthday party. [No other names were given for the above photo ] met? Emily Casarez is a college student work­ ing toward her own goals and supporting the community along the way. Casarez graduated from Hastings High School in 2017 and earned an associate’s degree in elementary education at Grand Rapids Community College. She plans to attend Western Michigan University in the fall to study special education. She had been considering pursuing a veterinary career or becoming a special education teacher. “I spent time with a little girl I was mento­ ring who had autism and it kind of sealed the deal for me,” she said. “Every child deserves a chance to grow and excel, and my goal is to provide this kind of safe and successful environment,” thc 21-year-old added. Even though Casarez decided to pursue special education, she recently started work­ ing at the Southkent Veterinary Hospital in Caledonia. She also volunteers as a 4-H lead­ er. “lite main things I do right now revolve around 4-H and school.” she said. 4-H has been a big part of her life. She joined the program w hen she was just 5 years old and has been a 4-H leader for rabbits and guinea pigs since she aged out in December 2018. As a 4-H leader, Casarez helps prepare kids to show their own rabbits and guinea pigs at the fair. This involves a lot of handson learning, Casarez said. “The main thing they learn is lhe responsi­ bility of having the animals and learning how to take care of them,” she said. She was the vice president for rabbits and cavy development committee up until last year, and is the secretary of the goat develop­ ment committee. She also helps out with showmanship practices in the goal project. 'That work usually began in .May and contin­ ued until the fair began in mid-July. “Normally, we would practice ever) Monday and .sometimes Mondays and Wednesdays, but since COVID. we area t able to do that.” she said. With the goats and rabbits, she helps kids get ready for the fair and teaches them skills Emily Casarez and general care. “We do a lot of hands-on work to allow them to participate instead of us just showing them.” she added. While keeping busy with work and 4-H. Casarez also enjoys music and playing soft­ ball. She raises goats and works with her animals at home. She has participated in many community service activities, includ­ ing helping to serve breakfast at the Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Hastings, and volunteering with vacation Bible study during high school. She is the eldest of three daughters bom to Wesley and Jennifer Casarez, who also are active volunteers. For her dedication to 4-H and service to her community, Emily Casarez is this week’s Banner Bright Light I’m most proud of: Who I have grown up to be. If it wasn’t tor programs like 4-H and the people I’ve met in these programs, 1 wouldn’t Ik who I am today. What I’d tell a high school graduate: It’s OK to not know what you want to do after high school. Once they figure out what they want to do. they want to do it. not because anyone else is telling them to. Best advice I ever received: From my col­ lege vocal music director, Dr. Stephen Barton, who told me I had to learn to let all the small things go ... to find new ways to tackle a persistent problem rather than to continue to fight it head-on. Person I most admire: Dana Harthy, my previous 4-H leader. If I were president* 1 would find ways to bring back more of the arts in schools and some home ec classes. These are important skills to leam. and creativity ,s itnportant for development. . ' . First job: Education Station Childcare. , 'f I could change one thing; 1 change the way people see agriculture. Most Of the farms we sec in th' mcdKl “7 tndustrial farms, when the far"14 *e should really be seeing are t e small family-owned lamts that are “up 'L the local economy and operating are way ‘oo many misunderswdin£4 ab0U‘ ‘hC pr°' ouction of agriculture , , Best gift I ever received: M firS E°‘,„ Greatest thing a^Bad),^"'^ 1Iow t'ght-kmt of a community "e h.3^nles spent bavonte childhood men'1’0'' T' J 111 B-ry Coun" showing hvestock 1 am a racist. Tough words, but an honest description of lhe inner struggle I’ve grappled with my entire adult life. As w e all search our souls in the wake of lhe tempest that has roiled this nation for the past two weeks, we stand at a time of historical opportunity. It's a time for honesty, a time for empathy, and a time for life-changing resolution. My racism was passed down. As a child, I couldn’t have avoided it, but I do know' that I’m less of a racist than my father was because of the fortunate opportunities for diversity I’ve experienced. And he was less °f a racist than his father was. I believe racism can be a diminishing evil, but it will never be fully extinguished. Racism is a form of discrimination. No different than kneeling on thc neck of an inner-city or rural child who receives less state funding for his or her public education 1 'j'? children in affluent districts. No inerent than sneering at a woman for anng to apply for a job |ias a]ways *en held by a man. No different than citing poor people drink city water containing lead, and no different than drug gangs silencing anyone brave enough to report W'hat he or she saw. Discrimination - whether it’s individual or government-imposed - exists in every land. Discrimination is part of the human cnemistiy, it plagues our psyche. And it’s in the hearts of all of us because, when it happens and we say nothing, we’re all harboring thc discrimination we don’t want to admit. Our public turmoil over discrimination these past two weeks carries an interesting perspective, though, one I hadn’t considered until it was pointed out to me by my doctor, a native of India. “Discrimination is everywhere,” she told me. “but, at least here in the United States, we talk about it.” In her country, where rape is wound into a patriarchal culture, that form of discrimination against women has become silently accepted. In India, a woman is raped every 16 minutes, but only one-third ol cases reported result in a conviction. Ninety-eight percent of rapists are known by their victims, and 80 percent of the crimes are never even reported. It’s a culture that one noted gender expert terms “a spectrum of violence.” And few people dare talk about it. We’ve seen no shortage of talkers in this country during the past two weeks and, for that, we have thc First Amendment to thank. But if all the talk - and the regrettable violence - is to make a difference, it is incumbent on every one of us to demand specific plans for change. Anger does not change society. Agendas and demands for specific steps leading to improvement will. We have needed those voices of reason in lhe past many years. America has been an angry nation, dug into its political and social bunkers lobbing verbal rage bombs o’er the ramparts. What’s been lost is our willingness to be vulnerable, to listen and empathize. Il’s not important whether our neighbor is red or blue, black or white, believer or atheist. What is vital is that we be secure enough in our own selves to honestly explore why our neighbor believes the way he or she does - and then to understand and respect that viewpoint. That’s not a threat to our own beliefs, it’s the consideration our neighbors’ need to join the honest and meaningful discussion make our land better. We’ll of how we ” n0(hcr’S mind, but, in likely never chang^ listening ^Xanding we may be e‘luiPPin8 understanding. po|.|jca| divj(lc _ someone consideration as a hernial leader of their community and own family. By listening, by pushing huW thoughtful and meaningful and CffrChafs1thed promise of this lime in our history. Change comes so hard and so sk wly but. when you can feel a movement, kings do change. We cannot lose this opportunity by letting the nationa discussion shift to the d.stract.ons of violence, politics and agenda-less anger. This is a sad and unprecedented time in history as our country addresses both the challenge of racial unrest and the anxiety of a deadly pandemic. But what an exciting time in which to live, as well. How people react to adversity defines their character, and how (his country responds to these two challenges will make for compelling reflection generations from now. I envy young people just entering fields of interest and occupations where their creative thinking and confidence has been so badly needed. I also admire the innovators already in areas like education who now have an opportunity to restructure education in ways they’ve long advocated. Long-distance education, smaller group learning, restructuring traditional school calendars, and adopting equitable funding for all children are aspects of education we’ve needed for so long. Now, as thc call for social change is sounding deep and wide, let’s not miss this opportunity to make them happen. I’ve never had a strong interest in science, but now I’m energized by the possibilities in the field of health. How fascinating the work of public health, laboratory research, and telemedicine is going to be. And how important it will be to make health care accessible to every individual - and affordable to all. That will be exciting work, now even more possible during this clarion call for social change. There’s compelling work in policing that’s needed^ as has become especially apparent in these past weeks, but how interesting that process will be to design and build policing organizations with new mindsets and paradigms. We’ll need our best and our brightest to redirect our policing perspective to emphasize protection over control. In so many other areas - age and gender considerations, religious freedoms, sexual orientations - we have so much to accomplish and, now, such an opportune time in which to do so. I’m sad for these past two weeks and for thc pain our biased and silent society has caused one group to endure over and over again. It’s my own silence as it has occurred that leads me to my acknowledgement of being a racist. But that bias - in not only just my life - has been diminishing through the generations. Because racism, like every discrimination, will never be extinguished, it’s important that we not move backward. Discrimination can be re-lit and stoked. Let’s use this time to turn on a fire hose and extinguish it forever. Doug VanderLaan, Guest Columnist By listening, by pushing to understand, and by accepting those with whom we disagree, we can, over time, build thoughtful and’ meaningful and effective leaders. The Hastings Banner Devoted to the Interests of Barry County since 1856 pubitshodby.. Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 News and press releases: news^adgraphlcs.com -Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com Frederic Jacobs tzryer. • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Publisher & CEO 630 am. to 5 00 p m Hank Schuuring CFO SX"en M.ke Gilmore Ty Greenfield Colleen Egtesfon _________ _______ Jennie Yonker sonality. for tfc -'r hS5"c ‘C1' “ • NEWSROOM• 4W58: email newsfi J nugraphw** or Rebecca Pierce (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer (Sports Editor) Greg Chandler Taylor Owens Subscription Rates; $45 pe, y6ar |n B *501X11year in adjoining counbes $55 per year elsewhere FOSTMASW S«u P.O. Oox Ifld Hastmgs. Ml 49056-0168 b°cond Class Postage Pa-d ________a* Hastings, Ml 49053 Co.jnty �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. June 11, 2020 — Page 5 inci*ry TownshiP approves creased cemetery lot costs Ll,ke FYwheck *'hu cost of .. Writer .............. ' -xton Gt.™, "Ktvasc from $400 . "f burials to <0 l.cnnon; tilc Of 'hut. S50 will , Ongmally, the lu.>\ 11110 'he township. 0 ^nnon for for burials but thal chanced 'he proper­ board s mcctini: iwt. . dl“lnS 'be township Tauter "'Shi. she’d found on v»*Kr shared information ship cemeteries inT” C°S? ,or"11,cr chip's original M X?"* C°Unly- Thc ,0"“fccs-«>m^dto«Ja\at *hc ,w ’:"‘1 »f S450 and^^'1™ between Baltimore Towr?"1' ,hc lx>ard nolcd was etety Xa~7±P ’ pO,ic>' ""ere the cempaid, but6a the'1,TnShT mosI the° amount barges re,ainsof $10 'he follow a sinX s>Mem'P dCCided ‘° anPu-X wilife: sT the tnwnck;^ • „ , ’ncrease while lire bos 1' keCp ,bc gaining $50. $5 7Sn t > J a xo >otC(i 10 approve spending on’^e T N.,C ,Olas do renovations •moth -r . nsh*P hall -- with one stipulation: If bld Comcs *”> ,hc board will revisit thc topic. <h;*-rcqUu‘ for,bids wi" bl: P“1 °n 'he town_ip s website. If no responses are received r Ilk motion made by . ey °” Tuesday and authorized by thc \ will allow Heck to proceed with the uork at thc price he proposed. Wooer, Clerk Deb Kt light, and Trustee Lee , , . . Campbell supported the proposal. Supervisor Wesley Kahler abstained from (he vote since Heck is his brother-in-law. Trustee Teresa Schuitcboer vexed against it. lhe process was done in this unconven­ tional manner because Kahler and Wooer said, in lhe past, they haven’t received bids on the project - and it needs to be completed by the August primary. Kahler said Heck wasn’t asked for the bid price, but he put it together anyway so the township officials could sec the estimated cost.Thc work includes replacing ceiling tiles and repainting the framework on which thc tiles sit. To meet additional social-distancing guide­ lines. Heck also would work to expand the entrance to thc township hall to decrease a potential bottleneck for foot traffic. At the conclusion of its meeting, the board went into closed session to discuss potential litigation. Following the closed session, the board approved two actions: One directed the town­ ship attorney to contact a property owner in the township and the other lo grant an ease­ ment to that property owner and split the cost of the easement work with the township. Township officials refused to disclose the name of the property owner, where lhe ease­ ment would be located, and any cost that will be incurred. The board also approved spending $245 to remove lhe Hickory' Comers Fire Department decals from the tanker truck that is being sold. Board members tabled approval of their COVID-19 preparedness and response plan so that department heads can make guidelines specific lo Barry Tow nship. CONSUMERS, continued from page 1 is to modernize 90 percent of its citv gates by 2024. The new cily gatc jn Lake Odessa w ill have modem eqjjjpinent# including pressure regulators, gqs odorization, and 24/7 monitoring eqqipnlcnl. The monitoring equipment will be linked to the Gas C /□Htrol Center in Jackson. ’rebuilt facility will ensure that wc can contin{je l0 safely and reliably serve area custorners with their natural gas needs for many;decades,” Dodd said. Construction on the facility began on June 1 • f>roject workers, who are on site Monday throj^h Friday from 7 a.m. to 5:30pan., are a Sheriff should stay in his lane combination of Consumers Energy employees and staff from PJ Steel Pipeline Construction from Kalkaska. This city gate is located in a rural area, southwest of the intersection of M-50 and M-66. “There will be some noise and possible natural gas odor as gas is vented from the system al the beginning and end of the project.” Dodd said. “Project personnel will work with local law enforcement and fire departments to notify them of the planned gas venting." copal clergy decry racialized violence To thc editor: HpiscoPa| n. As clergy ^ Michigan, v '‘\escs of Eastern and i;|oyd, Ahm. ^ncvc ‘he deaths of jll other viqj.^( Arbery, Brconna Taylor, and “ms of racial- ized violence. . who -.r« . Wc stand with thj an pleading for justice, those demon ~ to p()ilcc bnj tality. and those ‘ that nCien°Ul fo.r a ncw day. We also rccogn। ) manifests in brutal ways every' y lh*‘ those of us who are white do"' । . Thc stories of£ „f * m°n'hs. which echo and amplify ">*'c 4(X> ycnrs in our nation, arc oi*n,nf. I"'™, minds, and lives of us all. We have ""'«cd people of color being murdcre o icr reason lhan race. We have seen how 'he b<xhes of our sib­ lings of color arc p« j .? "'herently vio­ lent by some and eM* ahlc by others. We know that communities 01 eolor have suffered far higher percentages 01 oeaths from COVID19 due to inequalities in ncaith care, working conditions, and other rc.i lues related to systcmic racism. . Wc have seen white supremacist groups growing in visibility and \oicc. We have wit­ nessed inexcusable force - including the use of chemical irritants, rubber bullets, and batons — being used against people of all colors sim­ ply because they are in our streets peacefullyprotesting for change of racist structures and ways. As Episcopal clergy. decry any persons or groups who have subs cried these otherwise peaceful protests by bringing violence to our streets and communities. And,in those circum­ stances where the rage of those who are suffer­ ing oppression has boiled over into riots, we heed the advice of the Rev. Dr. Marlin Luther King. Jr., “to commit to listen to the anger behind lhe riots." Sheriff stands for the pe©p0e; governor's actions abused power To the editor: '. * /* i J . • Xj w * (I J • *• i ’ » ’’‘i 1 would like to take this opportunity to help Cody Hayes and other, readers who are ' kif/z: <”'>! bn/ .'!t*>l'> <>• > i interested in some basic civjcs and American history. ' First, our natural rights come from our Creator, they arc not given to us by the government. You are bom with them; they are held by lhe individual. Second, an Executive Order is not “the law.” Laws are created by our representatives, Michigan Legislature not the governor. We, the people, hold the Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. power and delegate responsibility to our Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). representatives to write the laws. State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Unfortunately, with these two stale of Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml emergency laws, they abdicated this 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov responsibility to lhe governor, who has clearly State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517-373­ abused them, as evidenced by the recent 7-0 2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; U.S. mail: Michigan Supreme Court ruling. And, Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. although a court has ruled in our favor (for now), these are still unconstitutional. Why? U.S. House of Representatives Because I say so. Because lhe sheriff says so. Justin Amash, Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House You can say she is acting within the Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ Constitution, but that doesn’t matter to me 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, because 1 don’t care what you think. It matters phone (616) 451-8383. what I think. These are my rights and 1 know when they are being violated. Rights do not U.S. Senate come from the government (courts). Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. Third, what the sheriff is practicing is 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. called “nullification.” Nullification has a long Gary Peters, Democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510­ tradition in American history. Our Founding 2202 phone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room Fathers, and those who came before them, 720, 110 Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 233­ consistently ignored British decrees (akin to Executive Orders). I personally have been 9150 President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and party to a nullification. 1 had the privilege of the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. serving on a federal grand jury fOr 18 months. The one memory I’ll always cherish is when we nullified a federal law and w'ould not indict anyone accused of that particular law. We took a stand, and told the district attorney, “No, this law’ is w'rong and we will not use it against one of our fellow citizens." This is what the sheriff is doing on our behalf. There is no "abuse of power” in our county ty our sheriff. In fact, our sheriff, by making this stand, is doing the uxact opposite. The “abuse of power" >s coming from our The requirements are. the wrjter_ wjth address and phone governor. Many of us are now starting to . All letters must oe s g j(jcatic;n An that will be printed is the writer's wake up to abuses our government number P^0Vlde„,°;tv of residence. We do not publish anonymous from police brutality to onerous licensing and even code conipliance* '\e- the people, have name and community wjthheld at the editor's discretion for abdicated the |M)'ver that is rightfully ours to letters, and names_ « °ur leaders and the bureaucrats. I am glad our compell^^reaso s(atements tha( are libelous or slanderous will not be sheriff will not enforce what he feels is unconstitutional. 1 ^ou wish all police, published. (or sty(e grammar and sense. administrative officers and bureaucrats did . All letters are subje . nja|S for Or criticisms of businesses will not the same? You can’t 'valk or breathe without . Letters that serve as testimu having to pull a pen’111 an>n\°re. If you want to address “abuse of P°wcr» ’ eliminate code be accepted , .. cards of thanks" will not be accepted compliance and their burdensome rules and . Letters serving the func on jnJerest which wi|I be determined by lack of due processunless there is a compelling p “I le failed lo cite any Par\G1 ‘he Constitution the editor. , personal nature will not be published or *hich they violate- 1‘^ * s? not up to the . Letters that include attacks P sheriffs to determine «‘ ‘ «s constitutional an<l what isn’t.” Act^*!?’ 1 s UP all of us. will be edited heavd£(ween the same two people on one issue will be specially the sheritl’ S ,nc of u<j “‘he this ‘ jS?ed ^oAe^each ^'ery jed. there is a limit of one letter per per­ ■*rioUS|y. while W 'o' •'* unconstitution.-a 3'^rnmera. . In an effort to keep opinions v Di'r Ixaf -is « slier'"'|S 5“lhc P^P'0 s son per monrh. |eglbl> „ ,yped. ^.spaced. ^Present'ativc W " e"forc,n8 . We prefer fe«ers 10 b0 P ____ - Know Your Legislators: ^Write Us A Letter:______________ J To the editor: Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf seems lo be a self-appointed arbiter of the Constitution and Michigan law. I am referring to his speech at the Stay-Home protest m Grand Rapids May IS and to his reaction to voter mail-in ballot applications being sent out by Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. Sheri fl Ixaf argued that Gov. Whitmer’s stay-home executive orders were unconstitutional. But I have yet to find where, .Our nation has neither acknowledged fully in the Barry County Sheriff’s Department list ndrres|M>nded comprehensively to lhe ongoing of services, interpretation of our state or thc violence against people of color. U.S. Constitution is offered. Our baptismal vows call us to respond now­ I feel that Sheriff Leaf should “stay in his and always with courage and compassion, “to lune.” that of enforcing the law. whether that persevere in resisting evil, to strive for justice law is promulgated through thc legislature or and peace among all people, and respect the put in place by our governor during a state of dignity of every’ human being.” emergency. Already we have seen that We believe that this moment, like others in attempts in court to strike down lhe stay-home our shared history, is inviting us to radical orders are unsupported by Michigan’s transformation. judiciary branch. Wc also believe that faith demands our par­ As I watched video of Sheriff Leaf at the ticipation in helping such transformation take protest. I noticed that he was in uniform. This hold. suggests to me that he was acting in an official We acknowledge that racism is woven into capacity and speaking for Barry County, and the systems, institutions, history, and psyche of that he was “on the clock” when he made his our nation, including our communities of faith. statements. Are all Barry County officials in We confess our complicity even as we seek agreement then with Sheri IT Leaf’s comments to break the cycles that sinfully perpetuate and actions regarding this matter? Did Leaf racialized violence, inequality, and injustice. travel to, attend, and speak at the protest on We commit anew to the work of reconcilia­ his own dime - or was this considered county tion. business? As people of faith, we believe that God is Then. Sheriff I>caf had a knee-jerk reaction present in struggles for justice, calling us to when voter mail-in ballot applications w'crc repentance and inviting us to more fully sent out by the Secretary of State’s office. His embody Christ’s mandate to “love one anoth­ June 4 post to lhe department’s Facebook er.” Our presiding bishop, the Most Reverend page suggested thal thc action w’as an Michael Curry, says that God’s dreams arc so unconstitutional power grab by SOS Benson. much greater, more merciful, more loving, and He noted, rightfully so. that some applications more just than the nightmare being lived by too were sent to deceased persons or to persons many in our world. no longer at those addresses. He encouraged The nightmare of racism is real. God’s people to turn those mailings in to the sheriff’s dreams are longing to break through. Now. office, since lhe county clerk’s office was not We commit our prayers and our presence to open, and he would make sure lhe county the hard work ahead, to the faithful work of clerk got them. Then Mr. Leaf had to reconciliation as we stand with those whose backpedal on his statement when he was tears, hopes, and cries for justice can transform informed that the incorrect mailings should be and liberate us all. turned in to the precinct clerk. I’m sure the sheriff only wanted to help Signed. Barry County voters, but he dropped the ball The Clergy of the Episcopal Dioceses of in his effort to play the hero. Eastern and Western Michigan I saw that Sheriff Leaf’s signature line on the department’s Facebook page is: “A great leader knows when to lead and when to get out of thc way.” I think it’s time for Dar Ixaf to get out of the way. Executive Orders. Several years ago. a few sheriffs challenged that the Brady Bill was unconstitutional and they would not enforce it upon their citizens. In a 5-4 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that sheriffs were not obligated and could refuse to enforce any law not reserved by lhe federal government under the 10th Amendment. Writing for lhe majority. Justice /Xntonin Scalia said the decision was based on the fact thal lhe Founding Fathers created a powerful local government as a check against an oppressive federal and/or slate government. Quoting President James Madison, he said: “(TJhe local or municipal authorities form distinct and independent portions of the supremacy, no more subject, within their respective spheres, to the general authority than the general authority is subject to them, w ithin its own sphere.” (Federalist 39) Scalia, and others, myself included, understand that the Founders knew the dangers of an arbitrary, confiscatory, centralized government, and he pointed out how they designed a system of divided power to ensure the checks and balances necessary to protect our liberty. The office of sheriff is directly responsible to the people of his county, not the governor or the courts. Sheriffs are elected, not appointed (like all other police forces), and they have complete authority to reject lhe acts of any agency of the government if those acts violate the rights of the people. Remember, the people and states are where the Founders placed all powers not reserved to the federal government. Ute sheriff represents the people, where all other police forces work for a government entity­ Like it or not, the sheriff is the highest government authority in his county: higher than the governor and even the president of the United States. There is no lawful authority for judges or a court to direct the law enforcement activities of a county shenff. He's not a part of the judiciary. That means not only can he refuse to enforce an Executive Order, he also would be negligent in his duties to do Otherwise. ., .n. , r Finally, you took issue with Sheriff Leal comparing Karl the Barber to Rosa Parks, by saying “such comments are insulting to lhe memory of an iconic civil rights hero who fought for something far more important than getting a haircut.” 1 hate to break it to you. Mr. Hayes, but Rosa Parks and Karl lhe Barber arc fighting against the same oppressor (the govemtnen and for the same thing (freedom). Ro<a. Kan. and countless others fought back. What you are doing is d^en^ government oppression which, ftai in vogue anymore. Hopefully. 1 connec some dots for you and others. Focus your attention on giving us our freedoms back and you just ma) win. Thomas Funke, Hastings Chris Bush, Nashville Racism can be passive To thc editor: David Brooks, the conservative columnist for The New York Times, suggests we should change the structure of our neighborhoods. We should talk to black people and find out how they experience racism. How can we help them to feel welcome in stores and homes near us. in our restaurants, at our concerts? This may be a little difficult for us. here in Barry County, to find many black people. I saw some, fishing, years ago, off a bridge near my home, until the county put up “no parking" signs. I have lo admit. I did not protest the signs. Wc are silent and nice here instead of honest about our racism. Black people are sensitive lo the way they are received. We have such a great community in Barry County that 1 hoped my beautiful, smart, musical grandchildren would grow up here. Their wonderful Asian-American mother vetoed that plan because she saw little diversity here. A great community, but are we afraid to share it? We must open ourselves to the diverse faces of all in our world and welcome thc enrichment people w ill bring. Carole G. Smith, Delton STUDY, from page 1 “It’s very’, very exciting because there are not many treatment modalities that arc actual­ ly proven.” Peacock said. "It’s a pretty unique Peacock is a hospiulisu a primary care phy­ sician who takes ears of hospi.al.zed pabenrs. For the time being, only patterns with severe cases of COVID-19, such as those with respiratory failure or who are on ventilators, are being given thc treatment. Since joining 'he study. Spectrum has per­ formed 40 transfusions. Peacock said. Three patients received infusions at Pennock and all three have recovered, he said. The multi-step clinical trial is expected to take about a year. Cuircntly doctor are largely focused on how patients’ bodies react to the plasma and whether they have any adverse reactions. According to the Mayo Clinic, lhe study incorporates^ a team of doctors who specialize in infectious diseaselaboratory medicine and pathology, transfusion medicine, pharmacy, virology and cardiovascular diseases. Other researchers working with Mayo Clinic are studying possible drugs, vaccines and other treatments. More information is available at mayoclinic.org. . �Page 6 — Thursday. June 11, 2020 — The Hasting* Bannnr Goebel interviewing for two superintendent positions } Luke Fronchcck -| Staff Writer . • Lakewood Public Schools, in seeking a -superintendent, has set its sights on five Candidates - including Hastings AsMstant Superintendent of Student Achievement •Matthew Goebel. Goebel also is a finalist for sripcfintent ten nt Wa) land Union Schools. 1 ”1 think it’s an indicator of the type 0 P0 he is,” Hastings Superintendent Dan f said of Goebel. ‘Tm really happy to h,m< bl dl’d hale to see him leave Hasting*. Goebel has spent the past seven years the Hastings Area School System. : "Over mv time with Hastinp. I ve been blessed by the staff and community, but! m a very coal-oriented person and I se.a.wa^ warned to be a superintendent. Goebel said Tuesday. ’Both Wayland and Lakewood arc .very good school districts. ■ While he’s interested tn these positions, Goebel said he plans to stay in West Michigan. He and his family live in the Grand Rapids area. . , The Wayland vacancy occurred after Superintendent Norm Taylor announced he would be retiring June 30, the end of the current academic year. lire lop spot at Lakewood became available after current Superintendent Randy Fleenor accepted the superintendent’s post at Mattawan Consolidated Schools. Both school districts will conduct interviews next week, which will make for a busy week for Goebel: Tuesday, he will head to Lakewood High School for a first-round interview' in the auditorium at 6:30 p.m. He is the final candidate slated to interview. Interviews earlier in lhe day will include Potterville Superintendent Kevin Robydek. Lake wood Assistant Superintendent Jay Lamer, Brighton Matthew Goebel is Hastings’ assistant superintendent of student achievement. He is a finalist for superintendents posts at Lakewood and Wayland Union school districts. Technology Director Dr. Christopher Turner, and Lewisburg, Penn.. Superintendent Dr. Steven Skalka. Thursday. Goebel will head to Wayland as one of three finalists for their superintendent’s job. He will be the first to interview nt 5 p.m.. followed by Christina Hinds, assistant superintendent at Mattawan, and Pat \elie. assistant superintendent of finance and operations for Wayland Union Schools. While Goebel is hoping to be picked, it neither opportunity works out. his plans are to stay with Hastings to continue his wrork here. correction Paul Lawrence Dvkstru. age 77, of Freeport passed away Aprj| 3,2020 a, his home. Paul s visitation will be held on Saturday. June 13. 2020 frOni jq to 11 a.m. at the Freeport Community Center, 209 Stale St., Freeport, where funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Dr. Howard Planner officiating. Prix ale burial tog^ place in German Cemetery. Memorial contributions to Spectrum Health Hospice will be appreciated. Please visit www.beeletgoresfuneral.com to share a memory' or to leave a condolence message for Paul’s family. JISD Board approves $40,000 renovation at West Learning ©entsr Luke Fronchcck Staff Writer A new program for students in Delton Kellogg and Hastings Area school districts is coming to thc Barr)' Intermediate School District. The new center-based classroom would fit the needs of students who find it challenging to leant in a normal school environment. BISD Superintendent Richard Franklin said. ■vi.The BISD school board, during a virtual meeting Tuesday morning, approved the mod­ ification of an existing classroom in the West Learning Center lo fit the needs of the new program. Franklin said their best estimate for project cost al this point is $40,000. but lhe actual cost may be lower. Dawn Weeks, assistant superintendent for special education, said program attendance should really be behavior-based and not limit­ ed lo a certain number of students from either district. She said they are expecting eight students. “There are steps you need to take before you know a student needs to be moved out of Worship Together ...at the church ofyour choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. 269-945-4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip. Mass 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Mass 8 and 11 a.m. Sunday. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd.. P.O. Box 765, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton. MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool. (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11:30am, Nursery and Children’s Ministry'. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 lo 7:30 pm. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. Slate Rd.. P.O. Box 273, Hastings. MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.Iifegaiecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Lift* Group 6:30 p m. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn. Hastings. Malt Moser. Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service: Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday. Family Night 6:30-8 p.m.. AWANA (Children Kindergarten-5th Grade). 6:30-8 p.m. Middle Sch(X)l Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948­ 8004 for information. CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery pros ided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616-690-8609. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road. Dowling. Ml 49050. Pastor. Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel­ chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship lime 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of Who jesus Is To The World Around Us”. 2635 N. M-43 Hwy.. P.O. Box 8. Hastings. Telephone 269­ 945-9121. Email hastfmc<j» gmail.com. Website: w u w.hastingJhxmsihudistAQm. Pastor Brian Teed, Student Ministries Director, Emma Miller. Wor­ ship Director, Martha Stoetzel. Worship with us Sunday, June 7 online service only. June 14 - 10:30 am Outdixir service behind the* church. For more information please contact the church or follow us on face book. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these load businesses^ sflexfob 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 i heqoru Bartlett Olne 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 Him WWW 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 Nashville, went to be with his heavenly fatheron June4,2020. Greg was born on March 22. 1947 in Traverse City, the son of Stanley Ira and Maribel (Buor) Olney. Greg married Clara Ann Young on September 3. 1966. After marriage. Greg enlisted in the United States Marine Corp in 1966. where he was deployed to Vietnam and served his tour until 1968. Greg started a family in 1969 and had two daughters. He worked at Motor Wheel Corporation for 25 years and then became a Corrections Officer for the State of Michigan, retiring in 2009. Greg received a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University. Greg enjoyed golfing and fishing in his spare time. He also enjoyed caring for his great-grandchildren. Greg was a loving husband, brother, father, father-in-law. grandfather, uncle and great-grandpa. Greg is will be missed by his loving family - wife. Clara Ann (Young) Olney: daughters. Daleann (Michael) Herbstreil and DustyJo (Robert) Anders: granddaughters. Breanna Herbstreil and Shaylynn (Bud Dean) Bement; grandsons. Rodney (Liz Segar) Bement. Zachary Bement, and Alexander Olney; great-grandsons. Achilles Dean, Apollo Dean. Ares Dean, and Jackson Bement; great-granddaughters. Braydin Osborn and Emery Bement; brother, Jeffrey (Janet) Olney and sister. Christine Olney, and many nephews, nieces, cousins and friends, . ... .. . . Greg was preceded in death by his brother Steven Olney. The family will schedule a celebration of Greg’s life at a later dale. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbach funeral home met. their home school,” Weeks said. Because of the program’s upcoming approval. Weeks said she had informed Delton Kellogg and Hastings principals lo start think­ ing about students who would benefit from the program. The BISD annual budget hearing took place immediately before Tuesday’s board meeting. “We tried to be very conservative.” Treasurer Sharon Boyksaid of the budget. This year, the districts general fund budget had $3.17 million in revenuesand $2.55 mil­ lion in expenditures. Special education had revenues of $7.34 million and expenditures of $5.75 million. Board discussion focused on upcoming budgets and potential cuts from the state. Chief Financial Officer Cindy Latta Larson said they currently have budgeted for a 5-percent decrease in state aid funding and a decrease of $650 per pupil in state funding. Because of these possible cuts, Larson said they have already taken steps to decrease spending by freezing all administration and staff wages. “If additional cuts need to be made, where do we focus?” board secretary Deb Hatfield asked. Franklin said any potential cuts would depend on the state. The district may adjust its spending to reflect whatever areas get reve­ nue. ”1 sal in a week ago on a Michigan Association of School Boards meeting with other folks from around the state.’ board vice president Bob Becker said. “We’re doing what they’re say ing, as far as a $500 to $700 Calvin Marshall Cappon. Hastings and Sarah Grace Watson. Hastings reduction. “If you think you are going to piny it safe Bethany Joy Noffke, Middleville and and run a flat budget. MASB said you’re Holden George Meyering. Middleville Charles John Cross Jr.. Hastings and Holly sadly mistaken. We need to bring our expens­ Ruth Altoft. Hastings es and revenues in line.” Franklin said that, because of the uncertain­ Caleb James Scheidel, Middleville and ty surrounding state’funding’lhc>' " on l real’ Kristen Lynn Malloure, Chelsea Adam David Johns. Freeport and Kelsi ly know what monies to exj*cl tn)nl th, ^,ale until they come back with an approved bud­ Naeole Herrington. Freeport Heyley Renae Maehler. Hastings and get, which he said could take until September. Corwin Michael Lee Bykerk. Hastings In other action, the Damon Andrew Cove. Middleville and • Set a special meeting f°r the suI*nnlc"] Madison Leigh Lynema. Holland dent’s evaluation. The in ters011 ,necl,,1£ Wl" Max Kenyon C<xm, Middleville and z\my lake place at 8:30 a m June 22 at the Barry' ISD office, but it will be p^P°ned 11 “ V*rU“ Joy Knuver, Fremont Jennah Rae McCoy, Hastings anil Samir al meeting is still required th? sUUe' , Zahidic, Grand Rapids • Approx ed an extended ^ho01 Sophia Jean Spurlock, Delton and Gabriel mg to state requirement*iUld empIoyed !C following BISD staff for P^ran1’ p °,ly Robert Ulrich. Delton Dayton James Ashley. Hastings and Keller, Joyce Lee Cari^ Ge-Mei?n<1 I,ie,50"u> discuss litiga- Mackenzie Jay de Collier. Hastings Cole Austin Rickcrd, Hastings and Erica Met in a closed K««<sion , • . Lee Potter, Woodland Kaleb Jay Dockier. Hastings and Morgan Paige Rasmussen. Hastings Kenneth RichRrd Lancaster began life on August 29. 1934. ;uid died on Tune 9.2020. fie spent all of (hose 85 plus years living in and around Hastings. He graduated from Hastings High School in 1953, when he then started at Hastings Manufacturing, spending much of his long career managing their Catalog Department. Before Alzheimer’s disease stole Ken’S abilities, he enjoyed shooting, golfing, fishing, a beer or two. and taking care of his lakeside home. Ken was preceded in death by his wife Nancy: his parents. Richard and Alberta (nee Higgins), and his brother. Clarence. He is survived by his brother. Allen (Liz); his children. Rick (Liz). Mark (Michelle), Ron (Lynn). Kendra (Tipi) Ockcrman. and Peg (Don) Mostcller; and.his step-children, Jeff. Tim (Leah) and Andy (Kim) Jenkins, and Teresa (Ray) Alcalan. are also a bunch of grandkids Ken lovr-’d lo teach how to fish, and an ever-mcrea.¥n8 number of great-grandkids he will neverUnow. Due to COVID-19 restrictions’ the family has delayed a memorial until aWer date, to be announced. X In lieu of flowers, the family retyUesls any gifts go to lhe Cottages at ThorrPPple Manor. 2700 Nashville Road. Hastings. MI 49058. where Ken was treated like fafrity for many years, or Grace Hospice. 2? 25 Airview Blvd. Suite 101. Portage, .MI 49002-1804. who took care of him near die epd. .................. t ,/\nd finally, we know Ken would haxc been delighted if you would lift a Budxveiser in his honor. Visitation will Tuesday, July 21. 2020 from 2-3 p.m.. with a Celebration of Life service at 3 p.m. at Girrbach Funeral Home, 328 S.Broadway; Hastings, Ml 49058. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net Marriage fipenses Weeks, and s1X‘‘£r fied^,Pr.>VCd a 2,X,-d-0 ^provided by slf'",C,nbC‘S llvr 3,1 i riim the summer. . A„ for children ..... Follow Th<-1 Hastings Banner on Facebook to keep up to date until the new edition is printed! ,••dUCi“,0,, SU’\^>|r !“***“ Ri^’- „ Gov. Gretchen Whitmer' uVr!.-W*"’ ^•hhie strnK-no? ;,il?7^“k,ng f,,r ^P^^^itionat-h^S^rquali- 'eaehei 'vho are wit ; Kenneth Richard LancasterJ Water ’s Edge Financial LLC Jef hey A. Keessen, AIF‘< (269) 948-9969 525 W. Apple St. Hastings, MI 49058 vvvv vv.watersedgefinniiciiii.coni Taking cure of what's important to \on \o that you can focus on what maticrx nu>.\t /<> y<»n S.uult... LH t rue, '. M.n,U-T HXK.VMK �fl look back ai the stories and columns on local history In thc Hastings Banner * .......... turning back the PAGES That was yesterday: Farm life Conclusion Edna Bechtel < 1911-2003) wmle about her family and their farm life in Thornapple township in a series that began in rhe Oct. 26, x '*' Banner' ^u' u </' o,lc °ffour daughters (Minctta, Orpha, lylaj, along with two sons (Otto and Orlcy), born to Allan and Ada (Schiefla). Their farm was at the intersection of Pamialee and Duncan Lake roads. This fourth and final installment of her written memories - telling of farm chores, advancements, and recreation -first appeared in the Nov. 2, 1995. Banner. 1 will tell you a little about how the farm work was done. Both of my parents w orked in the fields, since there was no hired man or a tractor and very little other machinery. The bam chores were done after the field work was finished. There was no electricity, so they used kerosene lanterns to light lhe barn. Milking war, done twice a day, by hand, with lhe person doing the milking sitting on a three-legged s’,ool. the milk pail sitting under the cow. Sonnjtimes the cow kicked, catching her foot in the pail and spilling the whole pail of milk. A. good milker could get several quarts of r{tf|k front each cow. The milk was brought to the house in 16-quart pails and strained into earthenware milk crocks and placed in a milk safe in the cool basement. The sale was screened cabinet that kept insects out and allowed lhe milk lo cool and lhe cream to rise. The next des ice for separating cream from lhe milk was a centrifugal separator with a large fount on top to put the milk in. There were gears and a large wheel, which was turned by hand. The milk ran over a series of discs and out of two pipes, one for cream and the other for skimmed milk. It was an improvement over the water separator because both the cream and the skimmed milk were not soured. Our first refrigerator was a large, upright, wooden chest lined with zinc. It had a compartment on top for a large cake of ice, and a lower compartment for food. We purchased our first electric refrigerator in 1936. Since there was no tractor, combine or baler, farming was done with primitive tools. There was a hand-operated fanning mill to clean seed for planting. This had three screens to remove the chaff, cockle and other seeds. We also had a com shelter, which was run by hand. A grass seeder, with a long arm was drawn back and forth like a violin bow as a sower walked over the field, distributed thc seed more evenly than broadcasting it. This was usually done before daylight, because it was more difficult after thc wind came up. Before the mower and binder, hay was cut with a scythe and forked into windrows to cure, and then loaded by hand onto wagons, drawn to the bam and unloaded by hand into mows. The coming of mowers and the horse­ drawn rake and hay loaders greatly simplified lhe haying, along with the horse-drawn hay fork to unload lhe hay from lhe wagon into the mow. Grain was cut with a cradle and bound into bundles, which were shocked in the fields before being drawn to the bam. I'he invention of the grain binder made a great difference in the labor of harvesting, l he grain bundles were stored in the barn for threshing. Before the invention of threshing machines, the grain was beaten out with a flair. The first threshing machine 1 remember was a huge grain separator pow ered by wide leather belts 2169 W. M-43-Hwy., Suite A Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 818-0423 421 W. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-3553 Nearing retirement? What questions should you ask? Thc recent market volatility his aflccted just about evervbody’s financial and investment situations - so, if you were planning to retire soon, will it still be possible? Of course, ihe answer depends somewhat on your employment situation. With so many people’s jobs being affected by the coronavirus pandemic, your retirement plans may also have been thrown into confusion. But assuming your employment is still stable, what adjustments in your financial and investment .strategics might you need to make for your retirement? Here are a few areas to consider, and some questions lo ask yourself: - Retirement goals - Now is a good time to review your retirement goals and assess your progress toward achieving them. You may want to work with a financta professional to determine il the current environment has materially affected your goals or jl you need io make modest adjustments lo stay on irac.. - Retirement lifcstyR’ ~ You probably created your investment strategy 1 particular type of retire-men lifotyle in mind. Perhaps ><>u had planned to become a w or traveler when your working days were over. Of course, in lhe near term, extensive travel may not be possible, anyway, but once we move past lhe pandemic, your freedom to roam will likely return. But if your investment portfolio is not where you thought it might be, can you (or do you want to) adapt your lifestyle plans? And can you accept the same flexibility with your other lifestyle goals, such as purchasing a vacation home, pursuing hobbies, and so on? Tradeoffs - Based on your retirement goals and vour willingness to adjust your retirement lifestyle, you’ll want to consider your options and tradeoffs. For example, would you be willing to work more years lhan you had originally planned in exchange lor Later confidence in your ibilhytoenjoy_ac<-m‘orI.1ble retirementlifestyle? I'1....... By working longer, you can continue adding to your IRA and 40100 or similar retirement plan, and you may be able to push back the date you Mart receiving Social Security to «w->£ bigger monthly benefitYou might also review you ss potentially save more toward your retirement goals. - Social Security - You can file for Social Security benefits as early as 62. but you can gel 25% to 30% more each year if you wait until your full retirement age, which is likely between 66 and 67. As you created your retirement plans, you likely also calculated when you would lake Social Security, but you may need to review that choice. If you postpone retirement a few years, what effect will thal have on when you choose to take Social Security and. consequently, thc size of your benefits? You won't warn to make a hasty decision, because once you start taking Social Security, you can’t undo your choice. This is certainly a challenging time to be entering retirement, and you’ll have some question* to answer. But even in the midst of uncertainty, you still have many choices. Consider them carefully and make lhe decisions that work for you. This article was written by Edward Jones Jor use by your local EdwardJones Financial Advisor. -.... , Edna Bechtel, pictured here in period costume, enjoyed writing memories from her childhood, a time when many farm and household chores were improved with new* inventions. between thc separator and the flywheel of a steam engine. The grain bundles were pitched into the separator and the grain ran out into granary bins (or was bagged in canvas bags), with thc straw' blown through a long blower pipe guided by a man who turned it from place to place with rope, to form a straw stack outside of lhe bam. Com ground was marked for planting by pulling a homemade marker, first lengthwise and then crosswise, over the field and the corn seed was planted so it duuld be cultivated both ways, l he hand-operated com planter was worked with both hands as it was carried by the operator over the entire field. The horse drawn grain drill was a welcome addition to the supply of tools. Corn was harvested by hand, using a sharp, crescent­ shaped com knife. The stalks were bundled and set in shocks, left to dry in the field. When the com w as dry , the shocks w ere opened and the com w as husked by hand, using a husking peg made of leather straps and a steel prong. The leather fitted over the back of lhe fingers and the steel prong w as inside of the hand and was used to tear open the husks on the ears of corn. Finding an ear of red com was always interesting. Potatoes also were harvested by hand. 'The potatoes were dug with large forks having several lines. The potatoes were picked by hand and put into crates, a job I wholeheartedly disliked. It was one thing to get my hands dirty while playing, but quite another to get dirty at work. The sand potatoes nibbing together sent chills up my spine. Travel was by horse and buggy or team and wagon, and in winter, a cutler with heated soapstones to keep our feet warm. Wc purchased our first automobile in 1922. a five-passenger Ford touring car. into which we literally packed our family of eight. Our new mechanical horse was christened “Lizzie.” She had a few peculiarities not found w ith our horses. She refused to wake up firecrackers and other small fireworks. until she was cranked with a long crank, There were few movies, but often traveling whereupon she sometimes protested loudly stage plays, community orchestras and band — backfiring, they called it. She also refused concerts. A few’ of lhe more prosperous to budge without a constant stream of gasoline families had gramophones, the forerunner of running through her veins and occasionally the Victrola and the present-day stereo. needed a heart transplant if someone left the In winter, we often pulled taffy or popped sw itch key or the lights on too long. She never corn, and we had skating and coasting did learn "giddy-up” or “whoa.” Sometimes (sledding] parties, spelling bees and other she had to lx* pushed with great effort through contests. winter snow drifts or dragged by horse Time spent visiting our neighbors was part through an early spring mud hole. of lhe recreation of the time. We had singing In spite of these small inconveniences. 1 groups and sleigh rides. All of our family never heard anyone even suggest that we were enjoyed music, and we often spent time better off with the old horse and buggy/ around the organ with my father’s violin, lumber wagon method of transportation. playing and singing together. Wc didn’t have L izzie had carved her own niche in our family time to become bored. life. . By 1940. my father, was no longer .able, lo There were no paved roads, no snow' plows, 'farm,so he sold iJtelarin to my hibihdr iridaw so we shoveled often. The snow sometimes and my sister, Dudley and Ilah Johnston. We drifted so deep in places that we could walk moved into Middleville. Allen Bechtel passed over the tops of mailboxes. Sometimes we away Dec. 9. 1949 (age 78]. Ada Schiefla were snowed in for weeks at a time. Il was Bechtel died Dec. 27, 1968 [age 87]. quite necessary that we were able to provide In 1959, the farm became a Centennial for ourselves during lhe long, hard winters, Farm. When the Johnstons retired in 1970, w hich were more severe and longer than our they sold the farm to the Wiley Timmermans. They have added some buildings and have w inters today. You probably wonder if we did nothing but made many improvements, as well as some work. Farm life had its leisure times and extensive remodeling inside the house, which pleasures also. Most of our fun times were is now 77 years old. I have enjoyed recalling those early days. enjoyed as a family or as a neighborhood. Recreation was made up of many simple Perhaps my story has brought back some memories for some of you. I hope it has given pleasures. We attended church and Sunday school at each of us a greater appreciation of the ihe nearby Mennonitc church with a small privileges and opportunities we enjoy today congregation made up of farmers like and often lake for granted. Sources: Photographs and manuscript ourselves. There were no radios, no television, no "That was Yesterday” by Edna Bechtel; Barry computers, no Nintendo games and very few County’ vital statistic records. Barry County telephones in lhe area. There were Courthouse: History' of Allegan and Barry neighborhood parties, picnics, games, Counties, /«SN5; plat maps from I860, 1873 hayrides, school programs, ball games or a and 1990. /Additional sources, 2020, include familysearch.arg. FindAGrave.com and day al the fair or a trip to thc zoo. If we didn’t have to make hay or cultivate Barryjnigenweb .( >rg. / corn, we sometimes went fishing in Duncan Lake. Blazing Fast Everybody Internet! celebrated the TOHIOVE TOGETHER! W $1999 Fourth of July with sparklers, 2-YEARTV PRICE GUARANTEE 190 CHANNELS MICHAEL KINNEY PLUMBING *^0 ta".'-'. Including Local Channels! CALL TODAY -For $100 Gift Card 1-855-382-2485 Licensed Master Plumber Licensed Journeyman Plumber \ New construction, remodel, repair, drain cleaning. ’ BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEATERS L.icense Same Day Installation #8110376 Office (269) 948-2248 & Insured Mobile (269) 838-5112. •Regular •Scissor Cut •Fades S’ Finer Fabrics Collection by Moda® * 30s Prints •Flat Tops ‘Beards -Mustache NO WALK-IN customers at this time. T Tray Tor Our Nation ask us 218 t: Slate .SI. Hastings • 945-9673 Please call to schedule an appointment. If no one answers, we are busy cutting hair - please leave your name and number. We will return your call within 24 hours. OPEN Ua 8 ’5 w P-‘ Membe Facebook Hutaf cJ™ncrs p,ck'uP Station a aaa r ONLY Due to current COViD restrictions. < Happy is the man whose God is LORD.S - Psalms - Regular Hoar's starting Monday - a aa a APPOINTMENT a ,A 269-953-6511 �fl — Thursday. June 11, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Local groups may seek supplementary funds Barry County ha- i „ awar*'1 fcdcr'11 funds made availnbl.. J**,the Pcpartincnt of Homeland SWurj|Scrnl Emergency Management Agcncy [/' |er the Emergency '7'»n<'Shelter“^program. I he county has J ,-hoscn <0 receive 510 476 to suppiem*™ e*cncy food and •shelter programs (hm i a state-set aside UnXdW^ by AssOCia'i0n °f Elaine Gariock This is a beautiful lime to drive around the countryside or village streets lo sec trees in blossom, flowers galore, and thriving vegeta­ ble gardens. White peonies came forth weeks a£o, and the pinks and reds followed several dhys later. Probablv this is the time to mark your bushes to identify which color grows on each bush in case you want to replant and/or divide them in August. • Lilac bushes had a short run this year. Ins stalks had a short run also. Flowering trees along Fourth Avenue were very showy lor weeks. . . . ' In most years, the Lakewood Lions C u has two chicken barbecue dinners, lhe pre ecLsser Lake Odessa club always had its dinner irt May using the facilities of the village pavil­ ion adjacent to thc Jordan Lake beach, with the pavilion used lor eat-in dining, lhe approach on lhe south end of Jordan Lake Avenue was used for take-out meals with Lions members stationed there to give quick service to people in their cars. The Woodland club always had theirs on Labor Day weekend at Herald Classic Park. This year.’bccause of the virus, the May event was postponed to June 7. This also will be the first time having the event on a Sunday. Customers who went on time or a bit early had an unexpected wait. The best laid plans of mice and men often go astray. Such was the case here with thc chick­ en not quite ready at the start of serving time. So. a line began to form of people in their cars waiting for thc chicken to be ready. The line formed at thc foot of lhe street. It soon extend­ ed back to thc comer of M-50. Then end-toend cars extended back for blocks. There were reports that the line extended al some point all the way back lo Sixth Avenue. Doubtless thc line moved along as custom­ ers were handled quickly. Those who arrived after 6 p.m. moved along the line a few feet al a time, gradually approaching lhe foot of Second Avenue. All this time, traffic went through in lhe center turn lane after first being popped al Fourth Avenue by a state trooper asking if the driver was headed for the chick­ en dinner or was he going further on the high­ way. If for the dinner, he was directed to the south curb. If not, he was directed into the center lane. As the clock approached 7 p.m.. Lions members approached the cars and asked if lhe occupants had tickets. If not, they were told the chicken was all sold and they could leave. Never before had lhe Lions mn out of chick­ en. They had always planned to have extra so members could buy additional birds to take home for their own freezers. They had served the usual half-chicken, done to perfection, a helping of potato salad, a plastic cup of very good bilked beans, a roll, and a single serving of ice cream. Was the huge increase in customers because of thc unusual Sunday date, or was it a case of people thrilled to get outside lhe house for a good meal? Gradually, business places are being opened. The hardware store is now' open for customers, most wearing their masks. Soon lhe barber shops and hair salons will be open. It will be a relief to get a professional haircut. The library was to open on Wednesday. For weeks one could see not a single car parked on Fourth Avenue at times, but that has changed in the past week. Again, the parking lot near lhe beach is filled with customers at Buddy’s on thc Beach. Many children were seen playing at the beach with adults watch­ ing them for safely. The parking lot at the public landing at the fool of Tasker Road and Oltland Shores south of Vedder Road (the boundary between Barry and Ionia counties) is well patronized by pick­ up trucks and boat trailers. An exciting change in Carlton Township is the re-opening of Charlton Park Road south of M-43. A local board made uo of die Salvation Couw>’ <’ommUioncrs'1 ,aslinBs Area Ministerial Association. Continuum of Care, Commission on Aging. ,,nd Barry C ounty United Way wili determine how the funds awarded to Barrv county will be dis­ tributed among the cmerccncV f™d nnd shc’’ are 1Pr°Sfnms nin bY service agencies in ihe a ""y;?arTy lhe local board is responsible for recom­ mending agencies t0 rece:vC these funds and any additional funds mnde available under this phase of the Under ihe terms Of the grant from ihe national board. lo^ aRencies chosen to receive funds musl be private voluntary' non­ profits or units of government, be eligible to receive federal funds, have an accounting system, practice nondiscrimination, have demonstrated the capability to deliver emer­ gency food and/or shelter programs, and if they arc a private voluntary organization, have a voluntary board. Qualifying agencies are invited lo apply. Barry' County has previously distributed emergency food and shelter funds to Manna’s Hastings Public Library begins limited service Hastings Public Library began offering drive-through service Wednesday. June 10. Library items may be requested on patron library card accounts, by email to staff@hastingspubliclibrary.org, or by texiing 269-818­ 8590. Requests may be made by calling 269-945­ 4263. LEGAL NOTICE FOR 2020 j BARRY COUNTY CONSERVATION ; easement program APPLICATION The Barry County Conservation Easement (BCCE) Board is pleased to announce the 2020 application cycle for the Barry County Conser­ vation Easement Program. Deadline for sub­ mission is Monday, August 31st, 2020, at the County Administration Office. The BCCE pro­ gram was created to help landowners place conservation easements on their parcels to permanently preserve important farmland and natural land. Landowners retain ownership of their land and may receive compensation for their conservation easement based on a state approved appraisal of their land. Participation is completely voluntary. There are also tax benefits to donating a conservation easement to the county. Interested landowners may ob­ tain an informational packet and application for this voluntary program by calling Paul Wing at 269-965-7901. The Barry County Road Commission is hiring for temporary seasonal gen­ eral laborer positions. Starting hourly pay range will be $11- $13 per hour, no benefits. Applicant must be at least 18 years of age, have a valid Driver’s Li­ cense, and be able to pass a drug test. Applications can be picked up at the Barry County Road Commission office located at 1725 West M-43 Highway, Hastings between 6:45 AM - 3:15 PM, or on our website at www.barrycrc.org. The Barry County Road Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer. City of Hastings REQUEST FOR BIDS Position Available: Police Officer Bid proposal forms and specifications are available at the address listed below. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City's best interest, price and other factors considered. Sealed bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 9:00 AM on Thursday, June 25, 2020 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. All bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package "Sealed Bid - Fire De­ partment Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus. The Hastings Police Department, an equal opportunity employer, is seeking qualified applicants for a full time Police Officer position. The primary responsibilities of this position include maintaining the high quality of lifefor all City residents, businesses and visitors. This will be accomplished not only by our proactive approach to enforcing the state laws and city ordinances, but also through our hiqh-dua,ity customer service. Qualifications: “ Must be 21 years of age ’ Possess an Associates degree ’ Be MCOLES licensed or eligible to be licensed . Excellent writing and communication s* . Must pass an extensive bad<ground investigation u Please submit resume and cover lot.or to Chief Jeff Pratt 201 E. State St HasH ' M 49058 orjpratt@hastingsmi.org . ’ln9S M Resumes will be accepted through Jaf,e 19‘ Roger Caris Fire Chief 1420% .. - 142097 - Farm to Families program offering fresh produce to all Luke Fronchcck Staff Writer Local residents still have a chance to receive some free fresh produce. Until the end °* June, every Friday Barry County resident may go to one of 11 sites across the county to P*ck up a box of fresh produce - for free, no questions asked. The boxes include items like apples, carrots, onions, celery, cabbage and more. Hie boxes are from a program headed by United Slates Department of Agriculture which has partnered with national, regional and local farmers who have had their production significantly impacted by the closure of hotels, restaurants, and other food service businesses. Through thc partnership, the USDA committed 10 purchase up to $3 billion in fresh produce, dairy and meal products and distribute it to communities for free. Suppliers package food boxes together and ship them in family-sized boxes to food banks, community and faith-based organizations, and other non-profit organizations. The service is set to run until June 30 with the possibility of its extension into thc summer. While many of sites offer pick-up beginning al 9:30 a.m. and run for an hour or two. program volunteer coordinator Allison Troyer Wiswell said people should aim to show up early. The local program was supposed to be allowed 1,400 boxes. However. Wiswell said they handed out 1.900 lhe first week - and promptly ran out. Last weekend, the number was increased to 2250 boxes after a driver made two delivery runs lhe same morning, and they ran out again. Wiswell recommends patrons go early to ensure they gel some fresh produce. The food is from Byron Center - making the two-trip morning a possibility for lhe truck driver working w ith Wiswell and others volunteers. “This is way to support farmers and get food into communities.” Wiswell said. “We can help people who do not have steady income to their families.” One of the best parts of the distribution efforts. she said, was hearing stories from people' about how the produce was being used. She mentioned things like one person s grandmother who was canning potatoes and another’s aunt who was making apple pie. “It’s the stories that make it worth it. Wiswell said. “Even though people are asked to stay in their car and wear masks it’s nice to have eye contact. People are hungry' for connection.” Allison Hinton is working as the program coordinator from the YMCA of Barry County. “The YMCA staff have been very important in terms of getting this produce out and being present at various drop sites. Wiswell said. Thc third partner for distribution efforts is Matt Haywood, w ho helps with his forklift by unloading trucks aqd providing several trailers . to distribute the boxes. “I’ve been so impressed with the number of people who have wanted to help and how the community has come together around it, Wiswell said. She also credited Hastings Department of Public Services employees who have helped set up lhe Hastings High School each Friday putting out traffic cones, handing out food, and helping with clean up. The Friday produce box pick-up locations include: -Hastings High School parking lot. 520 W. South St.. Hastings. 9-11 .’30 a.m. -Nashville Assembly of God Church, 735 Reed St., Nashville, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. -Freeport District Library , 208 S. State St.. Freeport. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. -Yankee Springs Meadows Mobile Homes (near lhe mailboxes). 1330 N. Patterson Road, Wayland. 9:30-10:30 a m. -Baltimore Terrace, M<P and Sandy Circle, Hastings, (near the playground). 9:30­ 10:30 a.m. -Meadow Stone Homes. Barfield and Balsam Drive Hastings, (near the playground) 9:30-10:30 a.m. -Vermontville Bible Church, 250 N. Main St., Vermontville. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. -Dowling Library, 1765 E. Dooling Road, Hastings. 9:30-11:30 a.m. -Middleville Methodist Chuich, 111 Church St . Middleville, 10:30-11:30a m. -Barry’s Resort. 2875 S. Charlton Park Road, Hastings. 11-11:30 a.m. -JohnstQwn Township Hall.,, 13641 S. M-37 Highway, Battle Credk.9:30-'l 0:30 a.m. Vaccmes make powerful shields Dr. Universe: How are vaccines made? SibaRh, 7, New York City 141933 CITY OF HASTINGS The City of Hastings is requesting sealed bids for the replacement of Self-Contained Breath­ ing Appartus. The Fire Department is located at 110 E. Mill St., Hastings, Ml 49058. Johnson ai the Barry County United Way via email tn morg»n^be»m<«l’«'»y-“'8 or by call­ ing 269-945-4010. The deadline for applications lo be received is I hurray. July 2. by 5 p.m. SEASONAL HELP 142335 Self-Contained Breathing Appartus Market. Harry County United Wav. and the bouth Michigan Food Bank. Public or private voluntary agencies inter­ red in applying lor emergency fixxl and s teller program funds must contact Morgan ChiefofP& Dear Sibagh. It might seem strange, but a small piece of something dangerous can protect you against something much more dangerous. This idea has been around for a long time, and it works. To leant more, I talked to Guy Palmer at Washington State University. As a scientist who studies infectious disease. Palmer likes learning about how to protect both human and animal health. Vaccines are one way to accomplish this. Instead of making you sick, vaccines do something powerful. They help your body learn more about a germ and how to protect you from it. Vaccines work by pushing a little piece of a virus or bacteria into your body. But they don’t give you the full genii that makes people sick. Instead, they give you a version that’s weak or dead. This germ can’t make copies of itself or spread in your body. When your body meets the weak germ, it makes antibodies. Antibodies are like little warriors in your blood.They help you fight strong germs if you ever meet them in the future. This gives you a special kind of protection called immunity. It’s no accident that the word “vaccine” comes from the Latin word “vaca,” mean­ ing “cow.” ’I he first vaccine was invented more lhanb 2(X) years ago. to protect against smallpox. It was created by pulling cowpox from a cow’s skin, then injecting it into a human. Since then, scientists have invented more complicated ways of making vaccines. They can now safely work with viruses and bacteria in a lab, pulling out and changing pieces of them. “All vaccines work essentially the same way.” Palmer said. “The way they’re made is how they differ.” Some vaccines use only parts of a germ, or a very weak version of it, so it can’t spread inside you. With other vaccines, the germs are killed by heating them up or using chemicals. Vaccines help you build antibodies like a shield. But in order to make that shield, scientists have to figure out how different germs work. Some germs are more compli­ cated than others, changing all the lime. So. we don’t have vaccines for everything yet.* “As time has gone on, we’ve gotten more sophisticated,” Palmer said. “We now can find the very piece of the organism that induces thc immune response that protects us against disease. But the basic way vac­ cines work has stayed the same.” It takes a long lime to create a new vac­ cine. Scientists test them to make sure they are safe, and that can lake many months to more than a year. “First you have to test it to be sure it doesn’t cause disease in people — that it actually is safe, and there’s not something you weren’t expecting," Palmer said. h's not very fun lo get a shot. But remember. the sting is temporary, and the protection Jasti. By getting vaccinated you’re keeping yourself and everyone’ around you sale. J “We know through research that vic ernes are safe," Palmer said. “They protect Dr. Universe Do you have a question? AaA /)r C'/uvrrw Send am mail ta Washmon Slate Universal rt side nt setentta and writer at Dr.Unis e ' wsu aluor visit her website. askdru,^ �The Banner — >1 Thursday. . to > Hastings •> WUJII 101 — TO’ iMMy, uJune 11. 2020 — Page 9' g Hast1 gs Charter Township recSs clean opinion on audit Local companies among ‘best and brightest’ Companies throughout West Michigan annually compete to be named one of "West •'.ic."s1‘.in ?• ^CS,' an<l Bri8h<<-‘st Companies to Work ror. Only companies that distinguish themselves as having the most innovative and thoughtful human resources approach can be bestowed this honor, according to a press release from The Best and Brightest. Selected companies were recently honored in a remote program. Local business with headquarters or branches in (he area deemed Best and Brightest Companies to Work For in 2020 include: Broadmoor Motor Sales. Davenport University, Flexfab, Gun Lake Casino, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, Highpoint Community Bank. Metro Health. Louis Padnos, Life EMS Ambulance, SpartanNash and United Bank. Winners are pooled by the size of their company. Employers with 100 or fewer employees are classified as small business; 101-300 employees. Medium Business; and those with more than 301 employees arc clas­ sified as Large Business. All companies, no matter their size, can be a Best and Brightest Company to Work For resulting in Belter Business, Richer Lives and Stronger Communities. An independent research firm evaluates each entry’ in various categories, including compensation, benefits and employee solu­ tions; employee enrichment, engagement and retention; employee education and develop­ ment; recruitment, selection and orientation; employee achievement and recognition; com­ munication and shared vision; diversity and inclusion, work life balance; community ini­ tiatives; strategic company performance; and the best of the best in their size category. Nominations arc being accepted for 2021. Applications can be found at thebestandbrightest.com. Highpoint Bank receives five-star rating Bauerbinancial Inc. recently announced that Highpoint Community Bank, based in Hastings, has again been awarded a 5-Slar rating, ns highest rating for financial strength and stability. 6 Earning a 5-Star rating indicates the bank excels in areas ot capital adequacy, profitabil­ ity, asset quality and more. Earning and main­ taining this top rating for 43 consecutive quarters, especially in this environment, makes its accomplishment even more impres­ sive. That makes Highpoint Community Bank an ‘exceptional performance bank.” a status reserved for banks that have earned Bauer’s highest rating consistently for at least 10 con­ secutive years. ‘‘It’s a noteworthy accomplishment in the best of limes.” Karen Dorway. president of the research firm. said. “Today, it speaks vol­ umes. How do they do it? A solid sense of community, working one on one, providing solutions to people who need it - that’s the mark of a true community’ bank. Highpoint Community Bank’s team members have been right there on the front lines doing whatever they could to help their neighbors and friends throughout lhe pandemic. And. they’ve done it all without compromising thc strength of the institution itself. Thai’s doing well while doing good.” SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Protecting elders from scams Vonda Van Til card, wire transfer, internet currency or cash. Public Affairs Specialist • Insist on secrecy about a legal problem or June is World Elder Abuse Awareness tell >ou io make up stories to tell family, Month. Throughout lhe month, government friends, or store employees. agencies, businesses and organizations spon­ Scammers continue to develop new ways to sor events to unite communities, seniors, mislead you. They might use the names of caregivers, governments and the private sec­ Social Security officials and tell you lo look tor to prevent the mistreatment of and vio­ them up on our public websites (where they lence against older people. learned the names themselves). Or, they might Scammers often target older people. They email you official-looking documents with a use fear lo pressure people into providing letterhead thal looks like it’s from Social personal information or money. In limes like Security or Social Security’s Office of lhe the current pandemic when people are partic­ Inspector General. Don’t believe them. Social ularly vulnerable, scammers will prelend to Security will never email attachments that be government employees, often from Social have your personal information in them. If you ever owe money to Social Security, Security, to gain people’s trust to steal their money and personal information. The most lhe agency will mail you a letler. explaining effective way to defeat scammers is by know­ your payment oplions and your appeal rights. If you gel a call aboui a Social Security ing how to identify scams then hanging up or problem, be very cautious. If you do nol have ignoring the calls. ongoing business with lhe agency, or if the What you can do If you get a Social Security scam phone caller mentions suspending your Social call, hang up, report it to our law enforcement Security number or makes other threats, the office at oig.ssa.gov, and tell your family and call is likely a scam. Ignore ii, hang up, and friends about it. We’re telling as many people report it lo us al oig.ssa.gov. We are working as we can that government agencies will lo stop the scams and educate people to avoid becoming victims. never. • Tell you that your Social Security number Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist has been suspended. • Tell you about crimes committed in your for West Michigan. You may write her do name or offer io resolve identity theft or a Social Security’ Administration, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids Ml 49525 or via email to benefit problem in exchange for payment. • Request a specific means of debt repay­ vonda .vantiKs ssa .gov. mem. such as a retail gift card, prepaid debit Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL .. The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Farm HAY FOR SALE- 1st cut $4.00/bale, 2nd cut $5.00/ bale. Call Delton 269-569-3900 or 269-569-3800. Garage Sale ,'MEGA MOVING OUT of MI Sale-6/12/20 & 6/13/20 9am. So Much Furniture,oak pedestal dining table. table, chairs, dishes book­ antiques, collectables, small designer women s c o baskets, decorations, lights^ ment yard decor, dog <■ o • > kennels, baby toys, wafiar. camping supplies P>»J microwaves UN «» / Seta Doctor Scale, la<W . ; wheelbarrow, yard t<xd . traps Eluded I wo day f> only. b Acres Dr . Hastings (off «« School). business Services MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-801-7506. _ BELLS CONSTRUCT ION- lb years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements, power Sung. 269-320-3690._____ BUYING ALL HARD- ffX^su^'lbbditA workman's comp. Logging, (209)618-7/^____ / or Sale 769-908-165T_______ ._______ 77sSOnT)FT OAK Fool KAb_„iipnt condition. Table, escel „ O69-90B$j,000.00 or ODO. -> 1654 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: AU rc-J riUtc Mhcrttuitj m u v.bjrct to the E«k Homing Ait the Mkhtptn Civil Rjghu Au wliich cdlcctncly niikr it illesJ lo advertise “any prrfercncs’, limitation v< diu-nniia.itio.'i baled on race, cole.-, religion, $e«. handicap, fantiltij national origin, age nr martial vUtui. or ah iMcnticti, Co make any imh prrfeteruc. l.iiii'atio:. or dischmi nation “ i amil a! Ir.luJei children under lhe .\fc o! IS living with premt or legal cvvtod'am. pre, iu-it women and pe;>j»!< veiling i tr.toj) of children under Ihtv i.e*>p«|>ef will not knowingly a.i-cpt any advertwing lor tt.d ctuie which j» in violation cl the law. Our iradin arc hereby irfarmed that all dwelling ■ »i»rrl»*cd in th»» newspaper air available on an e^tad opportumiy b st’ ’!<• report diwriiniiMUm tall the I.si II i. tiij: <enter at 7l:c Ht/Dvd! free telephone number fur l»..- heating impaired • I-k'XF92* 9175 ^r,ll'r Olherstate stateana»d .:1Itai ^menis ?Crn’ncntsmay mavbek. Other experiencing fin‘ vnship it ;‘‘nl,cs. but Hastings Charter l‘* .» ‘ >n the clcar During the pubjic pillar meeting ’lAiesday, ccrtifip|ukc u>uni David DeHaan of Walk1 ’ -^theiv ^e^on Plx? -viewed ton section of l,K (i,.,. dements fmrn the audit. .^‘"'’ip-ce^ an unmodified, or “This is the b'g * 1; , "I assurance we can give you. nc . o, anolhcr audit for thc towns" P When reviewing » W.uiVe numbcR. between this year e^ar- DeHaan said they were similar-1 I7 and public safety hadTone up sligh^ did pruper,y7> revenues and state g In the general increased rough!) • making it a healthy fund balance ’ from last year nd balance, DeHaan An unreserved fond balance is a savings account, of sorts, » t \cmmental funds. Generally accepted accounting principles rec­ ommend thc balance e no ]Cs^ and up to 15 percent 0 operating revenue. “Even if you guys do have decreased reve­ nues, you guys have und balance sitting there,” he said. "This is one township 1 would not be worried about at all. j (jo bave a other townships where wc are going to have to have a talk with them just because their fund balances are a httle more of a concern, especially if we do see a big decrease in state sharing revenue.’ Also, during the audit review, DeHaan expressed appreciation for the help received from Clerk Anita Mennell and Treasurer Jenee Phillips. “This audit was a little bit different," DeHaan said. "I don’t want to say all virtual, but they were getting us records and dropping them off at the office so we didn’t have lo come in here and disrupt what you guys have going and keep you guys safe and keep our staff safe. So. I do appreciate every thing they did for us during this time.’’ During the clerk’s rejxjrt,Mennell informed the board of communication she’s had with an individual regarding the cemetery. The indi­ vidual is concerned with grass clippings that blow from thc mowers and stick to headstones in the back of the cemetery. The individuals claimed to have complained about this issue twice. “If this continues lo happen. I have contact­ ed someone who will power wash our stones and I will submit the bill to the township,” Mennell said, reading aloud what the individual had written. "Il would be a lol easier to just put the mower guards down, I don’t think that’s too much to ask." Mennell replied with an explanation of how she went out personally to the cemetery and to their lots and spoke with the cemetery groundskeepers about lhe situation. Mennell said she had told the individual that any markers are placed at lhe discretion of the individuals, and the township is not responsible for any harm to such objects. The individual replied again thanking Mennell for her personal inspection of the cemetery, but informed her that after speaking with an insurance agent, there is liability with the township in the contract to pay for damag­ es. “I believe in the system, so I hope lhe prob­ lem will be resolved,” the individual wrote. Mennell informed the individual in her reply that anyone may address lhe board during regular meetings, but the individual did not attend. “Just so you know what we’ve got going on,” Mennell told the board. Trustee Keith Murphy explained that during Memorial Day. the stones had to be cleaned but not extensively. “I had to take a brush to the ones that wc had out there at Memorial Day, but it’s dried grass clippings,” he said, “k wasn’t anything that should have been a major problem, but I was a little disappointed. Things didn’t look quite as good as the) should have Memorial Day, but we are in a whole different world right now.” Tlte cemetery mowers arc trying to get everything done the t*sl Jhey can, and he did not see anything sticking t0 the stones. Murphy added. Supervisor Jim Brown expressed his opin­ ion on the situation“I can understand H«bu.1 I’m not sure I’d get loo bent out of shape on it, either ” he said. “We probably have one of the nicest, clean­ est cemeteries overall-’’ he added, “over a lot of them that are out there. During the supervi^,f s report, Brown gave a report on lhe recyc,ing.’ “Last week they empued 12 bins of plastic, and there’s room fors,x* °ne in front of the other and there’s three openings, and they did bins, which is unl>el,evable.’’ he said. The amount of cafd‘’oard has gone up, as wcll. Brown added. , “I met with the gu) thal P'cks up the card­ hoard,’’ he said. ••Bcl"cen.lhe plastic and lhe cardboard, cardtxiard up tremendousand that’s even wo^e 1 Jan plastic in a way because you can’t real1/ 'Mechanize tor that,” he said. “Well, you co,l,d " >(>u have about S2 million.” Brown said be p j.ul!. to meet with the enrdboard recycling gliy io sce if they can come jo help lhat, too. UP with something irc getting materials from a “Obviously, we« ,norc than just Hastings Township,” he -Granted -Granted permission permission to to Night Night Ma Magic Fireworks for Fireworks for the lhe proposed proposed fireworks fireworks sf show In other business, the board: July 4 at Winding Creek Campground. Brown -Received an update on thc generator that informed thc board of his meeting with the was approved for purchase at thc last meeting. company to view plans and the proposed loca­ It will be installed sometime in July. “So, tion. everything’s on board for that," Brown said. “Basically, for lhe kind of fireworks that I -Approved payment of monthly bills total­ do, or have done, I was impressed,” Brown ing $17,202. said. u-Was informed by Phillips of two certifi­ The company has gone through all of lhe. cates of deposits that matured, allowing her to procedures with the state, and a copy of the, open a CD at Highpoint Community Bank signed permit will be sent to thc State of. and put the other CD into the general fund Michigan, Brown said. ‘This is the way fire­ checking for thc upcoming road commission works should be done,” he added. bill. -Voted to nol purchase a plan from the, -Was asked for volunteers to be on Michigan Townships /Association unlimited Mennell’s election tx>ard next month. Trustees learning. Mcnncll presented the plans avail­ Bill Wetzel, Timothy McNally, and James able for lhe township to purchase. Each plan; Partridge volunteered. Mcnncll chose Wetzel such as thc essentials, plus package, and pre­ and McNally considering Partridge is work­ mium pass, provides a different selection of ing, she said. courses. After discussion regarding whether a, -Approved Mennell’s request to purchase plan should be purchased, the board decided sneeze guards for protection for the staff lhe classes arc not used enough lo justify the during the election. Two stand-up vinyl sneeze cost. If township staff members want to take guards, which can be wiped down and rolled certain courses, they arc able lo pay per item.up for storage, will be purchased. One 6-foot Thc next regular charter township meeting and one 8-foot guard would total around is scheduled for 7 p.m. July 7 in the township $500. including shipping, she said. hall. jfewborn babies * Klnslec Janine-Marie Peterson, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on May 18, 2020 lo Karla Mellen and Russell Peterson of Nashville. Barrett Norman Harris, bom at Spectrum L Health Pennock on May 21,2020 to Abby L.„ Harris and Cody N. Harris of Lake Odessa. Cameron Michael, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on May 18, 2020 lo Sarah Rowse and Thomas Rowse of Hastings. Landon Franklin Riemersma, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on May 22, 2020' lo Jolene Pasternak and Josiah Riemersma of,. Middleville. ***** Charlotte Rose Heilman, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on May 18, 2020 to Destiny Addison Kay McManaway, bom at Pendley and Adam Heilman of Lyons. Spectrum Health Pennock on May 28, 2020 *♦♦♦♦ to Shilo McManaway and Walter Michael Nevins II, born at Spectrum Health McManaway of Middleville. ***** Pennock on May 20. 2020 to Reann Nevins and Michael Nevins of Eaton County. Brenden Timothy Furrow, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on May 29, 2020 Adalynn Rose Brown, bom at Spectrum lo Dawn Furrow and Chad Furrow of Health Pennock on May 20, 2020 lo Andrea Hastings. ***** Brown and James Brown of Middleville. Morgan Jean Beglin, bom at Spectrum Nova Rayne Bruce, bom at Spectrum Health Health Pennock on May 29, 2020 lo Allison Pennock on May 21.2020 10 Katylynn Bruce Beglin and Lance Beglin of Woodland. und Samual Bruce of Hastings. STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY PUBUCATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING FILE NO. 20-28531 -NC In the matter of Chelsea Ann Beede. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS Including whoso address(es) is/are unknown and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: TAKE NOTICE; A hearing will be held on July 1, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. at 206 W. Court Street, Suite 302 Hastings, Ml 49058 before Judge William M. Doherty P41960 for the following purpose: Name change for Chelsea Ann Beedo to bo changed to Chelsea Ann Johnson. Chelsea Ann Beede .3260 North M-79 Highway Hastings, Ml 49058 (269)331-1134 142234 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate FILE NO. 20-28534-DE Estate of Faye Ben, deceased. Date of birth: 2/9/1946. TO ALL CREDITORS: The decedent. Faye Bell, died 3/30/2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Tammy Healey, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, #302, Hastings, Ml and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 6/9/2020 Tammy Healey 6831 Shoreline Dr. Delton. Ml 49046 (269-317-8827 142355 Synopsis Orangcvillo Township Board Mooting Hold Electronically Juno 2, 2020 Meeting called to order 7 pm, all board members STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate Estate of Gordon Lynn Mitchell. Date of birth: present, 3 guests Motion approved to correct and amend May meeting minutes Department Reports ” Motion approved paying of bills > \ Public Comment: Nono New Business: Motion approved COVID Re-Opening plan Motion approved lo table Parkway Drive Special Assessment Motion approved Supervisor to contact resident regarding litter ordinance Board Comment Motion to adjourn 7:45 pm Submitted by: Clerk Risner Attested to by: Supervisor Rook 142114 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate FILE NO. 1928243-DE Estate of Gerald E. Westphal. Date of birth: ’’to' all CREDITORS: lhe decedent. Gerald Westphal, died 6/29/2019. Creditors of the decedent are notified that aJ • ♦ inn pstala will be forever barred claims agamst the estate wui unless presented to Bean Westphal. P-rsoM representative, or to both the probate ^rt at2<» West State Street. Hastlnfls. Ml and the |M~ona representative within 4 months alter lhe date or publication o! this notice. Date: 6/2/2020 Brian Westphal 2577 Eyrie Dr. Woodbury, MN 55129 612-749-0820 142113 12/8/46. TO ALL CREDITORS: The decedent, Gordon Lynn Mitchell, died 1/7/2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against lhe estate will be forever barred unless □resented to Gary Mitchell, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street Suite 302, Hastings. Ml and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: June 5.2020 Gary Lee Mitchell 600 Cumberland Drive Eaton Rapids. Ml 48827 (517) 663-8576 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate FILE NO. 2020-28507-DE Estate ot Andrea R. Polhemus, Deceased. Data of birth: 12/10'1983. ~ TO ALL CREDITORS: The decedent. Andrea R. Poihemus, d<ed 03/03'2020. Creditors of the decedent are not.fied that all claims agamst the estate w.il be forever barred unless presented to Rosemary Golden, personal representative, Of to both the probate court at 206 West State Street. Suite 302. Hastings. Ml and the personal representative within 4 months afie» the date ol publication of this not'ce. Dale: 6/09/2020 Mark J. Bressette (P26982) 900 Center Avenue Bay City. Ml 48708 (989) B92-0591 Rosemary Golden 2209 CanoB Road. Bay City,Ml 48708 (517)285 6997 142383 �'Page 10 — Thursday. Juno 11, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Downtown restaurants allowed to expand outdoor dining Savanah Kaechck • Contributing Writer X More rornurant patrons in downtown ^Hastings can dine outdoors for now. thanks to temporary stay of the platform dining ^ordinance. r The Hastings City Council approved the Change for thc time being lo allow additional {outside seating through the use. of three [parking spaces for “parklet dining” on State [Street and removed a fee for allowing such •dining. . 7 This stay on thc ordinance and thc waive ot ‘the required fee and platform will be effective ^until the end of August, as recommended by <?ity Manager Jerry Czarnecki. » The platform dining ordinance current } > allows restaurant owners to otter outside lining in two of their parking spaces with a [required platform. Community Development .Director Dan King explained to the council »thnt, to expand their liability, thc restaurants '.wanted to be able to use three parking spaces for parklet dining without the required platform. This way. they can sene more customers than the 50 percent capacity restriction put on restaurants by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. . “Fifty percent really doesn’t cut it for the restaurant owners,” King said. ITicy need closer to 80. if not 90. percent of capacity to be able to operate at a profitable level. At 50 ‘percent, some may choose not to open; some .may just be treading water.” Restaurant owners are already allowed to use lhe sidewalks next to their buildings for dining, with lhe requirement of a fence if alcohol is being served. Czarnecki said. Second Ward Councilwoman Brenda .McNabb-Stange asked how- lhe reduction of available parking spaces for platforms would .impact downtown businesses and restaurants. “Where arc people going to park thal need to pickup to-go items from them?” she asked. “Now they’re taking three other spaces away, and there arc other people hope fully downtown shopping. Where are people going to park? Czarnecki said lhe risk of losing parking is the restaurant’s choice, but most of the take­ out orders would occur after regular business hours. “Most of the take-out orders from lhe restaurants are usually in the dinner-time hour,” he said. “If you look dow ntown, most of our retail places aren’t open during the dinner-time hour.” Mayor Dave Tossava recommended approving thc request. '•! sit and watch TV al night and watch the news, and there’s communities all over lhe state of Michigan that are supporting lheir restaurants by doing this, and 1 think it’s one more thing we need to do lo help these people out,” he said. Council member Jim Cary questioned the safety of allowing parklet dining for restaurants. “The current application process docs require that the outdoor sealing does go through a review process of fire chief, chief of police, director of public service - those type of people - just for those reasons, for the safety reasons,” Czarnecki said. King expressed his appreciation for the council’s approval of the request, mentioning that business owner Tom Kramer; Seasonal Grille owner Justin Straube, and Walldorf! Brewpub and Bistro owner Mike Bamaart were thinking of all restaurants and businesses when drafting thc request. “Their thoughts were not just single­ minded to their individual restaurants; it was intended to increase foot traffic downtown to let other merchants be visible during this time and during the reopening,” King said. During council comment, council member John Resscguie expressed his concern for the restaurants. “I think tonight is a good thing we’ve done for our restaurants and our businesses downtown, but we need to continue to help them in every way we can find,” he said. In other business, a partnership with Hastings Michigan Ave., LLC was approved in order to increase their chances of receiving state funding for the four-story mixed-use project on the old Moose Lodge property at 128 N. Michigan Ave. “They are going for a community revitalization grant through the state,” Czarnecki said. “One of the things that the stale looks at to give priority to these projects is to see if lhe local municipality is pannering with the project to help offset the cost.” This partnership involves the council supporting lhe Neighborhood Enterprise Zone tax abatement, providing around 50 percent property tax savings for the residential part of the project; Commercial Redevelopment Act tax abatement, providing around 50 percent property tax savings for lhe commercial part of the project; and Brownfield Tax Increment Financing, which supports other costs associated with the project. Plans underway for city hall to reopen Savanah Kaechele ting together right now,” Czarnecki said. “In Contributing Writer fact, we had the first sneeze guard put in today t The city of Hastings will start reopening its al one of the spots; so. we are working • offices in a gradual way. working backwards towards that.” [from restrictions that had been put in place During lhe comment portion of the meet­ jover lhe past few months, City Manager Jerry' ing, council member Bill Redman questioned i Czarnecki said during Monday’s city council when the phones at City Hall will be answered J meeting. by staff members instead of routing to voice­ [ Next week, all staff will be back lo work on mail. {•a regular schedule. The drive-through also As staff members return next week, the 'will be open next week to allow for interse­ phone calls will no longer be sent lo voice­ ction with citizens, he said. mail. but the callers will hear general infor­ r But city offices will remain closed to the mation regarding hours and services on the public next week. answering machine before being directed to a ■ “We arc looking here on the main Boor to staff member, Czarnecki said. do things that would provide safely for both “When they first call in, right now as we [■ our employees and the public as per the exec- are transitioning through, they'll get informa­ • utive orders that the governor has put out tion that is pertinent, like when the compost is « recently,” Czarnecki said. open, if you have a question on your water 1 “As we went through stages where we bill, press this number," he said. “As soon as \ reduced what we were going to do, we arc that’s done, a small number of those (callers), • going to work our way back through those they will then go to a person, not to a voice­ • main steps,” he said. “So, you’re going lo see mail.” - people being able to come in by appointment Redman also questioned when lhe council ! only when we start bringing public in first.” would be able to hold in-person meetings ’ Starting June 22 through July3, in-person again. ♦. service will be available by appointment only. “We can only have 10 people in this cham­ • After the Fourth of July, lhe hope is to have ber at one time and, w ith this council and city offices completely open. Czarnecki said. manager, that’s 10,” Mayor David Tossava That would be the case, “again, pending said. “So now we can’t allow Jane {Saurman, any further direction by the governor,” he city clerk] in here. We can’t allow staff in here or any of the public. And I think if we don’t added. Council member Brenda McNabb-Stange allow the public, wc are in violation of the asked about required precautionary steps to Open Meetings Act.” “Hopefully, before lhe end of this month. open safely, including a written plan on how I’m hoping we can get all together,” Tossava Jo deal with COVID-19. “!”hat’s what we are in lhe process of put- added. Gilmore Car Museum reopens Friday The Gilmore Car Museum. North America’s Largest Auto Museum, will re-open to die public Friday. June 12, following a threemonth state-mandated closure as part of the effort to contain the spread of COVID-J9. ' “We are so excited lo welcome everyone 'back,” Jeff Romig, museum president said. “So much has happened in three months, it •feels more like three years.” Guests will notice several new procedures. These include; -Face masks required for everyone inside 'buildings and highly encouraged within the museum’s 90-acre historic campus -Strict social distancing with temporary postponement of all hands-on, educational actives, such as free antique car tides and the Model T' Driving Experience. - -Reduced attendance capacity. The museum also has seen many new developments in recent months. For one. Hie Horseless Carriage Club of America has announced its intern to build its museum facil­ ity on lhe Gilmore campus. Also, a 1902 Thomas — regarded as thc finest preserved, 100 percent unrestored original pre-1905 automobile in existence — has been donated to lhe museum. The new exhibit, “Legendary Packard From Lightbulbs to Luxury Automobiles," showcases 20 of the finest examples, includ­ ing one of the oldest known Packards and coach-built master pieces. “The Gilmore Car Museum is committed to the health and safely of everyone who visits — our guests, volunteers and staff,” curator Jay Follis said, “and we are very excited about the upcoming season and the opportunity to welcome everyone back.” The Gilmore Car Museum on M-43 just south of Delton, displays nearly 400 vehicles year-round, offers special exhibits and a vari­ ety of events. Information can be found at GilmorcCarMuseum.org. All updates can be found online al GilmoieCarMuseum.org and social media. ?',c lhv though*5 ,he ,lns'ings Michigan Ave. LLc j, if lhe city make. a motion to show 'hn( they arc willing support these iypcs of |J1X abatements and the Brownfield to help lhis project move forward, that will increase their chances of getting the community revitalizarion Pr°g.ram,” C zamecki said. McNabb-Stangp quc5tioned the financial capabilities of the project, adding that more lhan ^5 percent of lhcjr money has to come from somewhere else "They’re sayjng ‘ they have on their document here, %ithout the requested incentives, the projcct js not fiscally sound,” she said. “So, without our providing $801,000 of thc pr°Jccl’in exchang« for in taxes over the 15 years, this isn’t feasible.” Fourth Ward Councilman Bill Redman expressed support for the request, saying it’s a logical request. “We have a tremendous amount of money that’s going to be coming into thc community from thc people that will be renting these apartments and these stores downstairs,” he said, “and I believe that this is something that we should support and go to bat for them.” McNabb-Stange requested more information in regard to the financial soundness of the project. “I’m nol against giving them some incentives, I think that’s a reasonable request on their part, but this is quite a bit of money for lhe size of the project,” she said Jared Belka, representing the project, was present on the Zoom call and addressed McNabb-Stange's concerns. Comparable projects across the state have similar requests, he said. I m willing to definitely look at it, so I guess I can support that then.” McNabbStange said. “But I do think wc need more information on the financial liability of the project before we vote on actually granting these.” Formal applications for the actual abatements will be presented to thc council at a later date, Belka said. BCCS’s Rodammes’ The experimental plane crashed after experiencing engine failure shortly after take off. (Photos provided) Nashville man in minor plane crash Taylor Owens Staff Writer A 26-ycar-old Nashville man was uninjured in a minor plane crash in Calhoun County at 3:15 p.m. June 7. The man was practicing with a single-en­ gine experimental plane in a cornfield next lo the Turkeyville Campground in Convis Township. The pilot said he had taken off and started into the air when the engine failed. He was too low to restart the engine, and he was forced to crash land, according to a press release. The Calhoun Counly Sheriff’s Office and Marshall Township Fire Department respond­ ed to the crash. It is currently under investiga­ tion by the Federal Aviation Administration. Michigan Free Fishing Weekend starts Saturday signs with Goshen College Michigan’s upcoming Free Fishing Weekend (June 13-14) is a great opportunity to spend time outdoors with family and friends - just remember to practice social distancing with people who aren't from your household. Barry County Christian School senior Jenner Rodammer signed his National Letter of Intent this spring to join the Goshen College Baseball program next season. Barry County Christian School senior Jenner Rodammer has signed a National Letter of Intent and accepted a scholarship to play baseball for Goshen College (Goshen, Indiana). Jenner has traditionally been a shortstop and starting pitcher for the throughout his time at Barry County Christian School, He batted .605 as a junior and was slated to be the Eagles’ ace on the mound this spring before the high school baseball season was suspend­ ed. “Jenner is a leader on the field and Obviously, he was an integral part of our team on the mound, on defense, and al die P,ate ” said BCCS head coach Brandon Strong. “Although our 2020 season did not go as planned, I could not be hapPier lhal he wiH have lhe opportunity continue P,ayin8 baseball atthccujj/te level‘Jenner is a truly remnrkablc individual from a tremendous family-” „ . , , Goshen is an NAIA Divisi°n H school thal competes in the Crosst^ds ^agUC’ He p,ans Maple"UafsX^oach. Justin Grubb, said. "Jenner is? '^ | ulent We are look­ ing for him l0 hc|Xs OII the field and on die mound. He will have » ‘hancc..makC impact inunediatciv next season- ’ The Goshen c*.‘,e Maple Uafs' a shortened 2t)2o „ hcn. werc 1' 0Ven>R and 2-1 in lea^ ™ v & M‘ple, ■'•ability in theirSing s,,,n ? ‘W? •hrce coaches ha?e ^n a' Goshen for seven years, while the ,h: X been at Goshen for five years cv in *was ,n Rodammer’. d " lnu"* sign *>•'•Goshen-as Michigan residents are invited lo grab a fishing rod and enjoy some fishing during the 2020 Summer Free Fishing Weekend. This year, it’s Saturday and Sunday, June 13 and 14 - two full days when everyone can fish withoul a license (though all other fishing regulations still apply). During Free Fishing Weekends, lhe DNR waives thc Recreation Passport entry fee nor­ mally required for vehicle access to Michigan’s 103 state parks and recreation areas; however, the passport requirement has already been suspended until further notice. The DNR has offered Free Fishing Weekends since 1986 as a way to promote awareness of the stale’s vast aquatic resourc­ es. With more than 3,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, tens of thousands of miles of rivers and streams, and 11.000 inland lakes, Michigan and fishing are a perfect match. “Being outdoors and enjoying Michigan’s world-class fisheries never gets old.” said Jim Dexter, DNR Fisheries Division chief. “We encourage families to plan a day of fishing for this year’s summer Free Fishing Weekend to enjoy the fun of fishing together.” Everyone is reminded to practice proper social distancing (at least 6 feel) from people who don’t live in the same household. Delton seniors reflect on July 10 graduation ceremony plans Luke Froncheck Staff Writer When lhe choice for graduation ceremonies was between virtual and in person, it was a slam-dunk for Delton Kellogg graduates: Hold it in person. After sending a survey to seniors and lheir families, Superintendent Kyle Corlelt announced that graduation ceremonies will take place July 10 at the Gilmore Car Museum. Specific information on who can attend lhe ceremonies will be released at a later dale when school officials have more clarity as to what social distancing guidelines will be in place then. “Considering the circumstances, I’m really grateful we can still have an in-person cere­ mony," senior Amber Mabie said. “We all get to wear our caps and gowns, walk across a stage, and turn our tassels together, as a class - and that’s all I could ask for. “Having it al lhe Gilmore Car Museum will be a nice change - weather permitting - from the hot and slutty gym.” Delton's graduation will likely look vastly different this year. . “I personally think it was a good choice.” Holly McManus said. “The DK staff had asked us students multiple times for our opin­ ions for graduation and it was pretty certain no one wanted to graduate over Zoom.” Thc Delton Kellogg Academy graduation will begin al 5:30 p.m. and the regular cere­ mony will begin at 7. “I appreciate how caring and hard-working our school has been about putting together a graduation for us.” Hailey Buckner said. “It may nol be a completely normal graduation, but it means a lot seeing them take our input into consideration and put together one that we feel would be the best and most normal. “Now that we have a scheduled date for graduation, it gives us something to look for­ ward to as we’ve been waiting for this special day for a long lime.” Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 11, 2020 — Page q even joine ballgames, begin “**« Bren,.. •Play ball!” ’ Fdilnr Those are the shouts of Michigan as restrict ion??' ?VI?SS lhr SUtc of lhe coronavirus and Covin’m* lhe sprcad lessen. l> continue io chibbascbal)te:fmwhill h,an >Schoo,s summcr Buncos YoUlh‘?XImhC^4'Michi(!an header this evenin ' 1' ^or u doublen>.H is a step £g’"ni"8 « 5:30 P-m. this point, as other schnH arc gO,ng at >t opening '2^ls^«nd the area are activities. morc socklly distanced ing workouts'’for'^r,0? Sl|ln"ncrcondi,ionWednesday • Us h,ph school athletes anda spZ/S'^ A •he wind unde^Lh ^'C,pan‘S nTping to a mnd- rx L . a lbermomcter. and next high school foX estndhe Cntn'h“y 10 'hC wound dow n Mad'u,n “ the SCSMOn middte ^2h.C ra“gh|y 50 hi8h whwl and out h id tn °° aged P‘lrticiPanls al <be worktheir i • Wa,t’ sP:,ce^ belween cones, to get healti cmPeVUurc bdeen and to answer some outs 1 qUesl,ons before entering for lhe work- strenoih'an^condilioning driHs duri^their hrei°lShhei Map,e Va*[ey Hi?h Sch°o1,00tbal1 (ield Wednesday morning as they do pandemic in mid-March. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Ch°° sponsored ac,lv,ly since scho°' was suspended due to the coronavirus ic Sig on S"’*have an>",ing sport sPccif- MHSAA member schools may begin stlnlmer activities at school facilities as iOflg as Maple Valley's Blaze Sensiba begins did “ wholc bunch of calf work two conditions arc met: 1. 510^ administra­ the first workouts of his senior year on the tion has announced schools ac,Hjies are open •’.j‘ln’ping and bln£cs and all thal Lvdh cT? ""."I Mapk VaIlc> sophomorc field at Maple Valley High School as to students and staff* aljd . The academic rP»«rSf!" Z- Thcn "c wcnt ovcr- wi,h Do" coach Jeff Fischer instructs a group of school year (last day of online instruction/ (Eastlick), and did a whole bunch of push-ups about 40 in strength and conditioning exams) has ended. and upper body, and then we did some sprint­ drills Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) “Everybody in the state.has to be very cau­ ing. Then wc did some ab work. It’s really hot tious about rogue things happening,” Wilkes °ut, so it is really gross and sweaty.” said Wednesday. “At least, here, we can kind chilz played JV volleyball as a freshman, ent members. of control what is going on a little bit. I think and was looking forward to the varsity girls’ I he schedule pits the team of Eagles against that is a good thing. I gucss it is kind of con­ soccer season this spring before school, and all kinds of different ball clubs. Strong said trolled chaos at this point. school sports, were suspended because of the his program found a couple of school teams to Wilkes said his phone and email inboxes world-wide pandemic. play against, regular summer travel ball have filled up every time the MHSAA or state “I was nervous at first, but I’m nervous teams, some homeschool teams from government announces some kind of an about every thing. I liked it,” said Schilz. Michigan. Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, as update. The announcement Tuesday from the Those nerves weren’t about viruses or the well as some Legion baseball teams. There MHSAA does not mean Maple Valley athletes heat, but rather about performing in front of are plans for al least one trip to Louisville, can start basketball practice in the gym. He such a large group of her classmates. Kentucky for a tournament in the coming would be happy to distribute a basketball to Maple Valley athletic director Landon months. any interested ballplayer to use outside or on Wilkes was extremely pleased with “Obviously, as a school wc have some lheir own though. Wednesday's turnout. The schools that are reopened in Regions 6 guidelines in place.” Strong said. “We’re still We had a lot more kids than anticipated to trying to keep some social distancing, being and 8 of the state, lhe northwestern lower be honest with you, which is a great thing,” smart I guess, only a few guys in the dugout peninsula and the upper peninsula, may begin Wilkes said. ‘This is going to be a very’ fluid at a lime and that kind of tiling. Practices have indoor activities with no more than 50 people situation. We are going to do everything in been going good. It is challenging I would but must continue physical social distancing our power to protect these kids, to protect us say. just based on guys’ availability. Some of and proper cleaning of equipment. Schools in and to protect the integrity of everything the guys are obviously now starting their sum­ those areas may have a maximum of 250 peo­ going on. mer jobs or looking forward to colleges and ple at outdoor activities. The MHSAA is rec­ “It is going to be tough. It is really hard to kind of moving beyond high school. We had ommending smaller groups of the same stu­ get kids to stay away from eacl^olher when __ _____ — about guysJn the program when we shutdenis continue to wod/dut together despite ’they haV * -- - ............. other for- Two months. ’“Ifowtf in MaraTTopi now iwe're* probably .Tiic.allowautx.fur.groi^caf50 indoors. or three months, or^whercver we*re at. We' averaging 13 or 14 at practices each.............. ' Schools all across the county are getting night.” will improve every day, but we had to start The BCCS summer team is made up of into lhe swing of things. somewhere: We had to figure something out. student-athletes in grades seven through 12. Lakewood High School athletic director In my opinion, we were very' fortunate to get Strong said he has had some baseball players Mike Quinn said the high school baseball the blessing of our superintendent and the from surrounding school districts enquire program was one of (he first to start ramping school board to start sluff, very controlled. about joining the club, but that the decision up activity in his district. The Lakewood High There will be a lot of documents. Everything was made to limit participation to those that School boys’ and girls’ golf program is set to will go along with the MHSA/X and the were already a part of the program before (he offer its summer practice/play sessions on National Federation of High School Athletics season was suspended in March. Friday al Centennial Acres Golf Course. Per and what their guidelines are. Every time an Strong said that all of his players’ parents MHSAA guidelines temperatures must Ik* update comes from the state it sends us into were supportive of lhe plan to being lhe base­ taken prior to participation and social distanc­ scramble mode a little bit. ball season, and he made it very clear thal it ing is required. “I challenged the kids today. I would like to was not mandatory’ lo play this summer to be The Lakewood High School girls’ basket­ push dial 100 (participant) limit. The more a part of the regular school athletic program. ball program was out on Unity Field bright kids you get here the more we have to adjust, Like at MHSAA institutions, at least in the and early Tuesday morning for conditioning and to me thal is a problem but it is a good lower peninsula lo this point, the Eagles are work, and has plans to be there every Tuesday problem lo have.” staying outside the building for all lheir ath­ and Thursday for lhe foreseeable future from 6 a.m. to 7:15 a.m. While that was going on in Nashville, half­ letic endeavors. way to Hastings along M-179, a sprinkler was The Thomapple Kellogg athletic depart­ The MHSAA announced some updates turning on the baseball field at lhe Barry- Tuesday, but competition is still nol allowed. ment said it is ready to start offering condiCounty Christian School where a group of Eagles has been prepping to start something of a summer baseball season. “We have a number of seniors thal we wanted to get back out on the field, and ulti­ mately no studies are necessarily conclusive but we do think that sunshine, warm weather, being outside and sweating is probably a good thing for kids,” BCCS baseball coach Brandon Strong, who is also a school administrator, said. “We have a lol of parents that are sup­ portive of thal, so w'e look lhe plunge. We didn’t even know if wc could get games. We have probably 20-25 games (scheduled) right now- between June and July. Being that all those things fell together, we just thought that we would jump in.” BCCS, a small private school that does not participate in MHSAA postseason competi­ tions, does not have MHSAA restrictions to deal with, but the BCCS Eagles are putting some safely measures in place. “It is kind of a summer travel thing, but it is not really. Even the school affiliation, it is not like this is something our school board voted on or anything like that. We have done summer baseball in the past, played in the Battle Creek league and things like that. So. it is quasi, maybe school and quasi not. Our biggest thing is that we wanted to make sure that the kids that had signed up to play with us With empty lanes between them Maple Valley student-athletes work to improve their m March were still on the table to be able to play.’’ He did inform lhe school board of lhe plans lo play ball, and “take the pulse" of the differ- speed on the track during the school’s first strength and conditioning workouts of the summer Wednesday morning. (Photo by Brett Bremer) See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits tioning re-acclimation training sessions beginning Monday. June 15. “The TK Athletic Department has been hard at work with the MHSAA and State of Michigan health guidelines to provide an opportunity lo get back into athletic condi­ tioning after the three months without or lim­ ited training. We are taking a unified approach to rc-acclimation conditioning where all TKHS student-athletes will have the option to work out for two weeks.” the TK athletic department wrote in a statement online early this week. The two four-day sessions will run June 15-18 and June 22-25. Also outside of the MHSAA restrictions on competition, a couple of Thomapple Kellogg High School golfers including new graduate Nathan Jansma and new senior CJ Crabtree who missed out on lhe spring varsity boys’ golf season at I K. competed in the Diamond Springs Junior Open over the weekend in Hamilton. Jansma finished 20th with a two-day score of 84-85-168. Crabtree placed 36th with a 91-91-182. New Caledonia graduate /Vie Jackson won thc event with a one-under 143 for the week­ end, shooting a 72 on Saturday and a 71 Sunday. His Caledonia teammate Landon Wanless, who will be a junior in the fall. placed fourth with a 74-71-145. Annual MHSAA hunt for officials begins The MHSAA is now accepting, online or by mail, for officials in all sports for the . 2020-21 school year. More than 9,000 officials were registered with the association during the 2019-20 school year. (File photo) The Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) is accepting registra­ tions online or by mail for game officials for the 2020-21 school year. The MHSAA annually receives registration by more than 9,000 officials, and had 9,256 during the 2019-20 school year. Thc highest total of officials registered for basketball, 3.960. with football also with more lhan 2,000 registered officials during this past school year. For all new- and reluming officials, those who register online again will receive a $5 discount off their processing fees. A S16 fee is charged for each sport in which an official wishes to register, and lhe online processing fee is $40. Officials submitting registration forms by mail or on a walk-up basis will incur a $45 processing fee. Officials registered in 2019-20 will be assessed a late fee of $30 for registration after Aug. 14. Ihe processing fee includes liability insurance coverage up lo $1 million for officials while working contests involving MHSAA schools. Online registration can be accessed by clicking “Officials” on the home page of the MHSAA Website at www.mhsaa.com. Forms also are available online that can be printed and submitted by traditional mail to the MHSAA Office nt 1661 Ramble wood Drive in East lainsing. More information about otti- vials registration may be obtained by contact­ ing lhe MHSAA by phone at (517) 332-5046 or by e-mail at register^mhsaa.com. There is an officials’ registration test for first-time officials and officials who were nol registered during the past school year. The test is derived from the MHSAA Officials Guidebook, which also is available on lhe Officials page of the MHSAA Website. Additional exams must be taken by those reg­ istering for football or basketball for the first lime or those who were not registered for those sports during thc previous school year. Manuals for both sports are available on the Officials page. New officials and those who didn’t officiate during 2019-20 also must complete (he online MHSAA Principles of Officiating course, also available on the MHSAA Website. There also are opportunities lo officiate for students at least LI years old and in grades' 9-12 through the MHS/XA Legacy 1*1050011. Juniors ami seniors may officiate subvarsity contests, while freshmen and sophomores may officiate contests at the middle school' junior high levels. Mentor officials will work events with Legacy participants to provide guidance and support. Find information on the Legacy Program by clicking ’’REGISTER NOW” on lhe Officials page of the MHSAA Website. • . " • . . • �Page 12 —Thursday. June 11.2020 —The Hastings Banner ___ Star Elementary School ‘waves’ goodbye to school year Savanah Kacchek Conrriburins Writer * Many school traditions have been altered in response to COVID-19 this school >ear< However, some fun has come from these alterations. A 23-year-old end of the )car tradition for Star Elemental} School in Hartings is the Summer send-off for students. The tradition usually involves a car and bus parade, with students waving to (he staff from the school bus and families trailing behind to honk and wave from their vehicles. MIt‘s usually an emotional day saying good­ bye for thc summer, but this tradition has always helped to bring closure to thc year,*’ Principal Am} Smclker said. Although the tradition is already a socially Ella Allyn tosses a balloon at her teacher, Matt Klngshott Alexis King throws a balloon at Principal Amy Smelker, . Haley Tomlinson shows her appreciation for the staff with a sign full of love and a water balloon in hand. As part of the traditional summer send-off event, staff members gather at the bus line to wave goodbye to students and families. Pictured here (foreground, from left) are: Brooke Cousins, Megan VanWyk, Ashley Roberts, Tanya Woern, Pam Hammond, Lisa Brown. Tammy Nemetz, Brad Bagley, Julie Sevems, Kristy Allen, Julie Carlson, Stephanie Hokanson, Diane Dawson; (back) Donovan Scott (seated), Matt Kingshott and Makayla Holloway. distanced activity, she said some changes were made to the event to bring out even more smiles. “The Star School staff didn't want that part of our year to be lost due to COVID-19,” Smelker said. "However, we knew things needed to be a little lighter due to the already emotionally taxing spring thal we have had without students in thc classroom. So, the staff decided to have a "wave” that involved a little water fun this year, she said. With decorated cars and prepared water balloons, students were able to "wave" good­ bye to their teachers with some added fun. Staff members also were able to say their goodbyes to the students with a little water. “Staff reciprocated thc love by throwing balloons back and spraying them with a little water.” Smclker said. “More than ever, par­ ents, students and staff were very grateful to have the closure at the end of this very strange and emotional year.” Siblings Oliva Allen, Kaydence VandenBurg and Rian Allen work together to reach the staff with their goodbye ‘wave." Currently, our worsnip service is Bentley Justicei wearing his ‘last day of second grade.' shows off his soon-to-be­ popped waterballoons. at 9:30am on Sunday mornings. in addition to our Facebook Service, we will also have a • * -- - 9 >: at 9:30am on Sundays in the lower parking lot. filing jn 3n,|Cfrfoct opportunity to , nnth waits forfOs by Amy Smelker) 1OSS her balloon (ph01 A water balloon breaks near Selena Corona in tho sunroof, while Karlee McQueen throws another waler balloon from tho back-seat window. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-06-18.pdf 81e756eacb7961548c3162254ecbafc3 PDF Text Text —"—-------- - --- . Pierce Cedar Creek Institute goes virtual Baseball returns to Barry County See Story on Page 2 See Story on Page 12 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 2®7^E?-State Street' , nasi,n9s.■Hastings Ml 4905g Hastnqs 2^.7 E State St ANNER ThursdayJ^^2020 VOLUME 167, No. 24 rr-ir—.L~.--r.TT PRICE 750 Summerfest canceled Rep. Calley hosting outdoor meeting June 26 State Rep. Julie Calley. R-Portland. has scheduled in-person office hours from? . 11:30 ajn. to 1:30 p.m. Friday, June 26, at * the Bob King Park Pavilion, 100 E.I . Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. “As our state continues to reopen, I plan§ i to resume my in-district office hours in a ‘. . safe and sensible fashion,” Calley said in a? press release. “We have a great outdoor?' location, and I’m excited to provide a leg- S islative update and answer any questions? you may have about the state’s COVID-19 !■ '• response, the reopening plan, or any other a areas of slate government.” No appointment is necessary. A legisla- j! five update will be provided at 11:30 a.m.,5with an opportunity’ for individual meet-’, ings beginning at 12:30 p.m. One-on-one j; meetings will be kept to 10 minutes each. Those unable to attend the scheduledi office hours or who would like a longer ; appointment may email at JulieCalley@ housejni.gov or call 517-373-0842. Scrap metal \ collection will help band .1 , Anyone with unwanted metal - be it in, . the form of wiring, lawn furniture, kitchen | ■ appliances and much more - can dispose ; of it, knowing it will be recycled and ben-1 efit the Hastings band program. 'The Hastings Band Boosters are plan-s ning a scrap metal drive from 8 a.m. to 61 ,■ pjn. Saturday. June 27, and 9 a.m. to 4 g ' p.m. Sunday, June 28. Accepted items include aluminum and': cast-iron lawn furniture, bagged soda and. food cans, kitchen appliances, barbecue •> grills, pots and pans, antennas, towers, j satellite dishes, metal window and bed1-? frames, metal tables, tire rims, auto parts, car batteries, lawn mowers, wheelbarrows,1! , metal fencing, bicycles, electric motors,& wiring, copper pipe, bagged nails, audio i and video players and recorders and com- •> ' puters. Items may be taken to Dewey’s Auto? Body, 1111 W. Green St., Hastings, during | the hours above. Alternatively, if unable to J . drop off that day. individuals may take? scrap metal to Padnos in Hastings and ask ;■ • to have it credited to the Hastings Band? Boosters. (Even cars can be accepted, if? delivered directly to Padnos.) However, some items cannot be accept- ,■ , ed. including glass, household garbage. | tires, propane tanks, televisions, computer £ J monitors and dry' cell batteries, such as j f AA. C. and similar small batteries. Questions can be emailed to dsolmes@ ? • deweys autobody.com or call 269-838-.! ’• 8106. Flying Association cancels Dawn Patrol | 7 The Hastings Flying Association has ; ,? canceled its annual Dawn Patrol fly-in J event because of the coronavirus pandem-. ? ; 5 ’ *c} 71ie event, which had been scheduledfor Saturday, July 11, at the Hastings/Barry County Airport, is a fundraiser for the; association. It typically includes a pancake breakfast as well as the opportunity to take ; i • ‘ ? airplane rides. “The restrictions that we would have to deal with from the COVID-19 (wasj the reason the group decided to cancel it this year," HFA President Ross DeMaagd said. a HFA is planning ahead for next year s: Dawn Patrol, he said. I .... FATHER’S DAY Sunday, June 21 Thylor Owens Staff Writer The Hastings Summerfest Committee voted to cancel this year’s event during a two-hour virtual meeting last week. “Considering the current pandemic and the highly contagious nature of the disease infecting our society, the safety of our indi­ vidual events, the volunteers, community and guests was the primary' consideration in reaching this difficult decision,” committee co-chairmen Brent Cowan and Robert Byington wrote in a press release. “We are hopeful that we will be able to hold the Hastings Summerfest next year in late August 2021.” Summerfest was originally scheduled to take place Aug. 28-30. Yet some specific events that were tradi­ tionally featured during Summerfest may still take place. Organizers are working on a way to hold the arts and crafts show and beverage tent during that same weekend - but at a larger venue where social distancing can be prac­ ticed. “1 have been getting phone calls for the last two months from crafters just begging us to have something," arts and crafts organizer Sharon Elzinga said. “They’re all telling me they really need a show because every show has been canceled for them." Many crafters had already put their money down on hotels and camping. Once the show was canceled, Elzinga said she heard from craft cm thid Vnliai people In the Hastings community. “I’ve gotten quite a few angry phone calls and texts," she said. “As a crafter myself, I was really disappointed that we weren’t able to go at the courthouse this year.” "Considering the current pan. demic and the hig y contagious nature of the disease infecting our society, the safety of our individual events, the v0|unteers community and guests was the primary consideration in reach­ ing this difficult decision. yye are hopeful that we win be able to hold the Hastings Summerfest next year in late August 2021.” ' press release from Summerfest committee co-chairmen Brent Cowan and Robert Byington Each year, the show raises about $12,000. which is used to help pay for ov'era|| Summerfest expenses. Some of last year’s profits have already been spent to put on this year’s show and cannot be recouped, Elzinga said. The organizers have yet to announce a location, but said the area they are looking at would have enough space for the 180 booths they have to spread out for social distancing, Elzinga said. ”\Ve are very anxious to try and pull this together,” she said. “I think people know if they want to come out br not. I think it’s up to them to make that decision,” Beverage tent organizer Melissa Stroh said the tent is still planned alongside the arts and crafts show. But that will depend on what Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s orders will be in Many traditional summertime events are being canceled to guard against spreading COVID-19, but a few are still taking place when proper precautions can be taken. For example, the Riverbank Music Series concert - with its outdoor setting in downtown Middleville - allows for ample social distancing. Here, the band Chameleon entertains a scattered crowd Friday evening. Organizers were hoping for a dine-and-drive evening, with local residents ordering take-out from restaurants and enjoying the music from their nearby cars. A few did that, but many just kept their distance, placing chairs near the amphitheater and along the sidewalk to enjoy the show, which happened alongside the first evening of the Middleville Market, Farmers and Artisan Market-at the Community Pavilion. (Photo by Brett Bremer) early August, when Stroh will have to apply for the liquor license. Tlie Elks Grand I^odge also would have to lift its own restrictions for the plan to have the tent to proceed. The perimeter would be expanded, and the lent would still offer live bands, food trucks and a new com-hole tournament. More information will be available as the details are approved. Flexfab engineers figure out Schools f® return to in-person a way to make safety screens learning this fall, governor says Luke Froncheck Staff Writer A desire to discourage the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace sparked the cre­ ation of a new product at Flexfab LLC. Engineers at Flexfab in Hastings came up with a design and a way to produce these clear safety screens to protect workers, said Ryan Knox, Flexfab director of marketing and innovation. The acrylic sheet is personal protective equipment intended for installation in offices, at front desks and between cubicles, to help prevent the spread of the aerosol droplets that can spread disease like COVID-19. “The safety screens are the first in this PPE market, Knox said. “Flexfab is in a wide range of industries and applications, and w’e arc really proud to add this product line.” Andrew Walsh, Flexfab’s training and development coordinator, said the screen design uses a freestanding pressure-mounted system. ‘We have a busy staff, but they were excit­ ed to support the need and found time in their schedule to work on this project " Knox said. *71131 s the Flexfab way. Everyone pitches in to get the job done.” Over the past month, Flexfab was facing the same challenges as other businesses that have employees coming back to the work­ place. While some employees’ positions allow for them to continue working from home, or to work in the office in a limited capacity, some positions at Flexfab require staff to lie on site. Flexfab Vice President of Human Resources Bill Rohr led the development of a plan to protect the health and safety of their employ­ ees as they returned to wotk. Knox said. But, after investing in masks, hand sanitiz­ er, and temperature-check protocols, employ­ ees noticed they still had shared meeting spaces like their offices, meeting rooms, and lunch area - where it is difficult to meet social distancing guidelines, Knox said. So they checked what was on the market and learned, based on what was available, that their own Flexfab engineers, using equipment they already have, can produce protective screens that meet their exacting specifications for installation and investment. “Our team is used to reacting to needs. One of the nice things about being an engineering company is that, when there is a problem, they always respond with a good solution.” • Ryan Knox, Flexfab director of marketing and innovation With that realization, the idea for the safety screens was bom. “Our facility director, Keith Foster, worked wilh our engineers to design a screen that could mount on top of our cubicles without fasteners or adhesives,” Knox said. “Their fksign made it easy to install with minimal ‘Vestment." Knox said the group effort to produce the Greens was led by Foster and the engineering suPPort F,exfab Vice P^sident of Operations 7 mt Larsen. Once they came up with the idea, it took In a matter of da) 5* their employees were Flexfab machi^O to cut materials and screens for their internal use. “Our team is used to reacting to needs,” K110* said. “One of the nice things about an engineering company is that, when *lerc is a problem. always respond with 4 good solution.” the screens are man’1 actured using equip?lcm in the comply s Aerospace and Rail ,ndiistries division- 0cc°u^e that industry is ?u‘tc competitive, ^noX said they can’t share formation about »he cxact manufacturing Pf^ccss. “h is safe to U,at we have some advaneed technology nu’" «o meet the quality a,,d Precision dern,,n die Aerospace and jd! Industries thal 'VL Cfe able to use for Ulis need " Knox And, remarkably' ne equipment was a,r*ady set up to bcg,n Production, he added. See FL^Fas, page 2 J-Ad Graphics News Service Michigan schools may resume in-person learning as long as strict safety measures are in place, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said Wednesday. “We are optimistic that schools will be able to conduct in-person instruction while also complying with strict safety measures," Whitmer said during a press conference. “We’ve got to get this right." she remarked later. “. . .There are a lot of pressure points we’re trying to navigate." The announcement was welcome news to school officials. “1 am happy to hear that the governor is optimistic about face-to-face instruction returning in the fall, as that has been our hope all along,” Hastings Area School System Superintendent Dan Remenap said. *‘J am concerned that the details are going to be more restrictive than our school or com­ munity desires, but it was nice to finally hear at least something from the governor." School officials will hear more from Whitmer in less than two weeks: The gover­ nor said she plans to release an executive order and “a robust document caHed ‘Michigan’s Return to School Roadmap on June 30 that will provide details on what will be required and recommended for schools. The Roadmap will set the minimum heat tn and safety requirements, although districts may choose to enact more aggressive onesjin consultation with local public health o i- cials, state officials said. These minimum requirements will apply «> all schools, including traditional public, charter, private, and parochial sc 100 s"Our No. I goal on this advisory <- >“ ‘ ' is the health imd safety of our student and educators." said Tonya Allen, present and CFO of the Skillman Foundation andlc . woman of the Return to I-C‘,nl ' .' । Council. "We will mmain v.gdom and ble and closely examine the data a* tinuc to make recommendations to the 1, "••This is a crisis unlike any we've seen Iwfote? and we nre committed governor underscored the need for funding and flexibility from the federal government to help ensure resources for students and educators - a need that state legislators have emphasized as well. “1’his crisis has had serious implications on our budget, and we need federal support if we’re going to get this right for our kids,” she said. “Our students and educators have made incredible sacrifices these past few months to protect themselves and their families from the spread of CO VID-19,” Whitmer said in a news release Wednesday. ‘The most important thing we can do when developing a return to school plan is closely examine the data and remain vigilant in our steps to fight this virus," Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Chief Deputy for Health and Chief Medical Executive Dr. Joneigh Khaldun said. “I will continue to work closely with Gov. Whitmer and the Return to Ixam Advisor}- Council to ensure we continue to put the health and safety of our students and educators first. “This is a big step, and w<? remain flexible to protect everyone who steps foot in a Michigan school." The Return to School plan will align closely with the MI Safe Start Plan, state officials noted. The governor will consider the six phases of the Ml Sate Start Plan and the Michigan Economic Recover Council’s 8 regions of the state to determine when, where, and how face-to-face instruction can resume. Districts, students, staff, and families must iirepared to move backwards if there is evi­ dence of community spread of the virus, she ; >aid. : On May 15, Whitmer created the COVID19 Return to School Advisory Council to identify critical issues, provide input to inform the process of returning to school, and ensure a smooth and safe transition. On June 3. the governor announced a group of 25 leaders in health care and educa­ tion to serve on this council, which is chaired by Allen, and includes community members, educators, parents, and students to act in an advisory capacity to the governor and the COVID-19 I'ask Force on Education. �Page 2 — Tbur*fey, Juno 18. 2020 — The Hasltngs Banner FLEXFAB, continued from pa£e & c virtual - and Pierce Cedar Creek Institute g<*e - Canada grabs hundreds of viewers fro*11 Michelle Skedgell, the executive direc­ tor of Pierce Cedar Creek Institute, start­ ed working at when it opened in pqqi Flexfab is producing new safety screens, like the ones in place here, to help protect office workers from a possible spread of COVID-19. (Photo provided.) In fact, these screens aren’t produced by an individual cutting out plastic - they are man­ ufactured using machinery programmed to cut the exact shapes required. “It’s extremely precise and can do a lot of cool designs,” Knox said. “We were really lucky to have that equipment and engineering know-how already available.” After grasping the effectiveness of the solu­ tion that their engineers had developed, Knox said they began reaching out to area business­ es to sec if they had any need for this product. “We have been overwhelmed by .the response from the surrounding communities,” Knox said. “They would say it was bom out of necessity al first. Once we saw how nice they were, we realized other companies have similar needs.” What started as a plan to protect internal employees, turned into a product being mar­ keted and sold to businesses to protect the work environment and ease the transition for employees reluming to their offices. “Based on customer feedback and our own internal needs, we have made a freestanding design similar to what you’ve seen at restau­ rants or retail stores and a pressure-mounted design that attaches to the top of a cubicle wall.” Knox said. Most of the safety screen designs are cus­ tom built, he said, but the) have standard pricing on the units available al https://www. flexfab.com/acrylic-snecze-guard/standard-pricing. "We are so proud of our team constantly solving problems and making the best prod­ ucts for.our customers,” Kno.x said. "We are honored to serve our community by providing an affordable solution to companies striving to protect their customers and employees.” Fle.xfab’s mission is “to deliver exceptional experiences to our customers, our people, and our community every day.” Knox said, adding that the production of the safely screens is a great way to do exactly that. "We love our community and we are proud to do our part.” Savanah Knechclc Contributing Writer through the many adaptions,closures.and cancelations during the past few months, the staff at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute in Hastings is finding that a surprising good can come from change. That change, specifically, has come in the iorm of various virtual programs that have proven popular with hundreds of people from the Midwest and even parts of Canada. “I think we’ve realized that nothing can replace in-person, but there can be some good things from the virtual activities.” PCC1 Executive Director Michelle Skedgell said. The Institute’s buildings closed in mid­ March. around the time Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced her first executive orders. Since then, many of the Institute’s typical activities have been reformatted from on-site to virtual events. Lunch-and-learns and coffee talks that normally take place in the dining room are now virtual. Various June programs, including Science Storytimes, and Family Science Night, also are taking place electron­ ically. Tlierc are even virtual hike events. "During this time of social distancing, the Institute is trying to creatively reach our members and visitors by engaging them with self-guided challenges as well as online pro­ grams.” Community Program Manager Ellen Holste said. "Our mission is still to inspire appreciation and stewardship of the environment, and there programs and activities fill the void of in-person public programming in these hard tinges.” . Holste said that reach has been surprisingly extensive -/from attendance numbers to the location of die viewers. "Our virtual programs have made Pierce Cedar Creek Institute and, by extension, Barry County more visible to a greater audience and expanded our educational reach,” she said, "Not only has it allowed us to reach the resi­ dents of Barry County during these hard times, but it also has given us a greater reach within the state of Michigan and across the United States and Canada.” In addition, the attendance for the programs have reached record numbers and views, Holste said. Ellen Holste at the 2019 Stroll and Read in Hastings. Last year, Pierce Cedar Creek Institute hosted this program along with the Barry Great Start Collaborative and Parent Coalition/Strong Families. (Photo by Scott Harmsen) As an example, Holste said that, for the “Rocks Rock!” Science Story time in collabo­ ration with Hastings Public Library-, there were more than 50 Zoom participants and more than 9(X) viewers on the Facebook page. Another example was the “Praying Mantis­ Masters of Disguise” program that had more than 100 Zoom sign-ups and more than 1,000 viewers on Facebook. “Typically, those programs would have around 20 to 30 people attend in-person ” Holste added. "We expected our virtual pro­ grams to have a greater reach -- but these numbers were above our expectations’” "h’s really amazing,” Skedgell added. “We might even continue the programs when*we do open back up. Holding activities and events electronically have presented some challenges. /Xiong with the absence of one-on-one interaction and the many enjoyable aspects of on-site activities are technical difficulties. "Internet speeds can slow down videos. There can be problems understanding and using the technology. Games I would typical­ ly play with children cannot be done with one or two children looking at a computer screen in a house And nature is meant to be viewed outside,” Holste said. "However, we try to suggest outdoor options in conjunction with our virtual programming - such as providing scavenger hunts, bingos, and story walks to gel people outside as well.” Even with technical difficulties and certain limitations with the electronic activities, the number of people attending the virtual events has been surprising for the Institute. “It’s been a bit of a learning curve, but I think we’ve all been surprised,” Skedgell said. “It’s got an interesting reach.” Continuing these virtual programs in the future will allow for increased physical access and in-person engagement. Holste said. “It happens all the time.” she added. “We see something online or on television and we think, ‘That’s cool. Someday I want to go there.’ We do not want to abandon our new online audience that we have developed during this COVID-19 time. "We want to continue our mission to inspire appreciation and stewardship of our environ­ ment to an even broader audience and, to do that, We need to reach them, educate them, and engage with them through multiple ways and platforms - including virtual programs.” By offering virtual programs and recording various presentations and activities for the YouTube channel, PCCI is able to break the travel constraint and time constraint barriers that often restrict people from attending the activities and events, Holste said. “Continuing to offer virtual programming after these tough times will help us reach and educate a greater audience not only in Barry County - but also beyond,” she said. Although attending such events electroni­ cally may be new- to some, Skedgell encour­ ages people to try the various virtual events and activities happening at PCCI throughout Continued next page “Our virtual programs have made Pierce Cedar Creek Institute and, by extension, Barry County more visible to a greater audience and expanded our educational reach. Not only has it allowed us to reach the residents of Barry County during these hard times, but it also has given us a greater reach within the state of Michigan and across the United States and Canada.” - Ellen Holste, community program manager for Pierce Cedar Creek Institute SCRAP METAL DRIVE We can’t accept glass, household garbage, tires, propane tanks, TV’s, monitors, and dry cell batteries (AA, AAA, etc.) June 27th 8 am - 6 pm June 28th 9 am • 4 pm DEWEY’S AUTO BODY 1111W. GREEN ST, HASTINGS Accepted Items • ' * . • Aluminum and cast iron lawn furniture Pop Cans (bagged) Food Cans (bagged) Pudges, sloven vrashnis and dryers, sinks, freezers, washtubs and BBQs Pots and pans Antennas, towers and satellite dishes Metal window and bed frames Metal tables Tire nms. auto wsand met Lawnmowers, al fencing Bicycles bag) Commercial donation* welcome Audio and video players and record ers. computer* (desktop and laptop) Car« delivered to Padncm Questions? Contact us by email dsoimee@deweysauiobudy.comor call 269 838-8106 Not able to cone that day? Take you scrap metal to Padnos Hastings and ask to have yow scrap added to the Hastings Band Boosters total. Pierce Cedar Cro k lnstitute has more lhan 800 acres of ,and and ls hom0 10 nine m’,les of walkino tra i learning opportunityoffered at the different buildings and through the research program for college students environmental �PCCI sale •s;"anah Knechele Pien-c (cd. Writer matted mans Ff *7°^ ^nsl‘u»te staff has re foreenter\on. s'; l ,c education and research experiences^ n acl‘v’tics and events to virtual Ua->preservCi U “i-person activity that the annual nW;/ "‘!h SOTne adjustments - was •We n J U;u,Ve Plant sale. April, Inn ulo have ’l ’n* * want 10 v'-v CO VID ” r delay it because of the Sked-cll . • .Xc^ul*'e Director Michelle I'ave'thcdriv then we (decided) to lv wort . । through pick-up, and it actuali i. ?OUI prc,,y "c|1” v ti\ e-through pick-un was ’xhcdulcd The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 18, 2020 — Pag© 3 thanks it pick- from 9 a-in. to 3 p.m. June 13. There were 7| orders, Skedgell said. and. by 11:3() a.m„ half of those ordcis had been picked up. ' " J>pically, our plant sale would be pre-or­ ders, and we also have people walking through our greenhouse and buying plants die day of. but. due to the COVID restrictions, we had only pre-sales, and that s worked out pretty well.” stewardship manager Corey Lucas said. The planting for the native plant sale start­ ed in the beginning of March. These plants included some of the most popular native plants purchased this year, such as wild lupine, purple concflowers, cardinal Howers. The annual precautionary me Sarah Grimes and Zach Whitacre are both summer student researchers at PCCI. Grimes attends Hope College and Whitacre attends Western Michigan University. ^nt sale took place via drive-through pick-up this year due to to prevent the spread of COVID-19. and wild columbineThe greenhouse diaLIo (hc gnjw. ing plants was msuj -'“gh a grant front the Barry Communuy1 wndation.The green­ house was built in ‘' and pllt in(o use in 2018. Skedgell said. Last year was the first year PCCI was able to grew the plants on.sj|e ••We had had p!»"J *«s before, but until Corey (Lucas) and Rtck. (Oldenkamp) came, we didn’t have the skills here or the green­ house to grow our own, Skedgell said. “So, last year was the first year that we had grown the plants.” The plant sale was offered on and off for around the last six years by purchasing native plants from growers. Skedgell “It just got more difficult to source the plants.“ she added. “That’s why we are excit­ ed to have the sale and provide native plants that others arc searching for, and to help spread the word about the value of planting native plants.” Community Program Manager Ellen Holste explained that growing the native plants on-site has been beneficial in many ways. “Propagating the plants at the Institute has many advantages: it reduces the cost of the plants for purchasers and increases the pro­ ceeds that go directly to the Institute in sup­ port of its mission.” she said. The money raised from the plant sale sup­ ports the PCCI mission by funding some of the general operation efforts. “It has grown, no pun intended, into an important fundraiser for the Institute,” Skedgell added. Lucas, who has worked at the institute for around 3 1/2 years, and Oldenkamp, who has been at the institute for about 18 months, both Signs were placed throughout thq property to guide the public to the native plant sale pick-up spot. I helped to run the drive-through pick-up) Helping alongside Lucas and Oldcnkamji were two college students, Sarah Grimes frorr^ Hope College and Zach Whitacre fromj Western Michigan University. Both students are part of the summer research program offered as an educational experience at PCCI. With the help of these staff members, Skedgell said, the greenhouse and the seeds (mainly sourced from Michigan Wildflower Farms in Portland), the native plant sale was able to continue this year. “It’s been a learning experience, but we are gaining more interest every year,” Lucas said. “We didn’t want to lose that this year - and people were really anxious to get plants and have that outdoor activity to do during these times.” Continued from previous page “We had 742 acres here and we bad a June. “I would definitely say: ‘Check it out,’ ” neighbor donate her property,” Skedgell said. Skedgell said. “You might be surprised al how- “So, we have over 800 acres now.” The Institute opened in 2001. with Bill and interesting it is. I know it’s nor the same as walking around in nature, but I think it’s still Jessie Pierce as the founders. Skedgell started working there shortly after it opened, in a breath of fresh air in a stressful time.” More information about the various virtual September 2001. events and activities can be found on the • PCCI is centered around environmental PCCI website or on the Facebook page. The exploration and education and its summer monthly Speaking Naturally newsletter also research program for college students is can be found on their website. Many of the another opportunity offered there. educational videos and coffee talks can be “We were pleased wc were able to offer the viewed on the PCCI YouTube channel. summer research program, but, because of Along with the continuation of some activ­ this, we have to be extra careful.” Skedgell ities via a virtual option, PCCI trails are still said. open to the public, free of charge, every day For the college research students on the from dawn to dusk. There are 12 different PCCI property are two housing units that hold hiking trails available on the PCCI property, a total of 42 overnight guests. which now’ amounts to over 800 acres. “We get all kinds of different groups that come to use our facilities,but. in the summer­ time. the students that do research on our property stay here,” Skedgell said. Due to the circumstances with COVID-19. the number of college research students who stay on-site has been.limited. “We’ve limited it sowccan spread it out,” Skedgell said. “An/I w/iecausc of all of that, wc are try ing to keep j/ittle less other activity around to kind of protect them.” Normally, the students would stay in one housing unit,.but now they are spread out between two.,And those students who don't have to stay on-site are asked not to stay on-site. “We said to them, if you don’t have to this summer, we’d prefer you didn’t,’ ” Skedgell said. “Where, other summers, we would want them to be here.” The research students also would normally any symptoms, and that’s part of our COVID receive hot lunch Monday through Friday, but preparedness and response plan.” now, with COVID-19, the Institute provides Skedgell noted that the Institute will likely them with sack lunches to go, Skedgell said. continue having some employees work from Although many of the PCCI events and home. There are about 22 part-time and full­ activities are still happening - some with time employees at the Institute and about 18 alterations and some limited - safety is the college students that are here through the top priority. Many of the staff members arc summer, she said. working from home and from the office, uti­ “We haven’t set a date to reopen, but we lizing a “come in as needed” policy, Skedgell will,” Skedgell added. said. The decision to not open the buildings yet And, when staff members do work from the was to sec if the policies that worked with the office, there are plans in place to ensure their students there would then run smoothly and safely for the public as well. safely. “When we open, we are trying to take a “When staff come in, according to the Barry (Eaton District) Health Department, cautious approach to make sure we aren’t anybody that enters the building fills out this adding to the spread of COIVD ” Skedgell health questionnaire.” Skedgell said. “They said. “We want to protect health and safety as fill out what their temperature is, if they have we move forward.” Rutland Township considers marijuana ordinance Luke Froncheck Stuff Writer Rutland Charter Township residents voted in favor of recreational marijuana in 2018, but the complexity of adopting an ordinance to regulate it is confronting the township board now. Last Wednesday, board members discussed how they should proceed. “The whole idea of making an ordinance is so we can control it,” Trustee Brenda Bellmore said. “If we do nothing and you’ve EOt a an individual out there that is insistent that they want to do something in Rutland Township, the state can come in and override US “That could be, this was passed in 2018, and this has not occurred yet.” Trustee Sandra James said. . , Of 1.240 townships in Michigan, along with 257 villages and 276 cities, if the information olT the internet is correct Janies pointed out. “there are Jots of places to put ^••We just want to be prepared." Bellmore ^‘‘••Our residents voted it in." Trustee Matt Six^er pointed <>^cmbvr # vJra in thl- township saidl yes to Proposal °n<:.w'i,|e9d2this>d^cuX,on before. J know “We hj.d this d.^^ i(.d ,.But , don.( they voted " _ d (sai<) this last meeting think they real zc ‘ T|i j nol |jfce a - the eo.nplex.ty-‘ a More and the liquor store wl«'V > J growing. Il’s several slate approves Jt- fsCe,S '.'- .. I think our residents are very ............. *. "'"iX During the n <addressed issues ’ checks and state j. marijuana ordmanu-Supervisor Larry discussion by leave packets they ■ _ quality control |ines governing a concluded the meinbers to f(lk.d Out prior to lhe meeting, which outlined their specific desires regarding an ordinance, so they could be compared and considered. The township hoard also: - Voted to spend S2.886 in yearly membership dues for the Michigan Townships Association. - Received an update from Clerk Robin Hawthorne that absentee ballot applications are going out - and that any ballots arc double-checked before they are sent out. - Moved to allow planning and zoning administrator Les Raymond to rework the proposed blight ordinance before bringing it back to the board for approval. Running for a Political Office? We at J-ad Graphics are ready to help you with your campaign needs. Citizens urged to call legislators about support for schools Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Barry County educators arc reaching out to residents with the following request: “Please contact your legislators and tell them we need adequate school funding,” Hastings Area School System Superintendent Dan Remenap said. “They do listen.” Last year, lhe slate government took steps to ensure that the budget was completed in a timely matter. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed a bill into law that set the stale’s budget deadline al July 1. But state Sen. John Bizon’s chief of staff Jake Jelsma said Senate Appropriations Committee chairman, Sen. Jim Stamas, R-Midland. and minority vice chairman, Sen. Curtis Hertel, Jr., D-Detroit, moved to extend that deadline. The new budget deadline was set for Oct. 1 because of the uncertainty surrounding the suite’s revenue in the wake of lhe COVID-19 pandemic and steps taken to prevent its spread. In the meantime, (he state “administration is holding out for a federal bailout,” Jelsma said. Jelsma noted that stale’s economists said they’re unable to forecast the revenue for this year, but arc scheduled to give another forecast in August. “I wish I had u good answer at this point,” he said. At this time, it’s critical for legislators to know how citizens feel about severe funding cuts to their school districts and the ultimate --------- • Advertising i School officials urging community members to pick up the phone or send a letter to government officials to emphasize the fact that education is a priority and that schools need more funds to function. impact such cuts have on education. Remenap said. _ . . , So school ofl‘c,a throughout Barry County are urging community members to pick up the ph°ne Or scnd a ,cUer lo £°vcmment officii k) emphasize the fact *hat education is u Pr,Or!l>' and that schools ‘^ed more funds to t^hon. . Similar conunund) uPport has been sought 1,1 the past. . liftr But this time Maple Valley °irvctor of Filial Sydloski said. “This is to sur**^’ V^loski said. “We cut lhe fat off our *0,1R l,mc “8°. and now they’re trying arm or a leg.” Sydloski, a Md ^Kklord native who has been " ,lb , *IdpIe Va,ky Schoo| d'Mrict for 16 y^rS’ ‘rUged 1>eop,c ,o caU ’heir legislators kSt more funding for Sch(X)|s. .. h “Use your voi^*5’ *r8vd. • Yard Signs • Banners • Flyers • Self Mailers such as postcards | and brochures . Inserts in the Newspaper i • Specialty items such as pens, i magnets, balloons, and more Wl Call 269-945-9554 I for more information J �Page 4 — Thursday. June 18. 2020 — The Hastes Banner No water spray today Did YOU * 9 Heavy rainfall caused the swampy area to flow 0 ^eS\ Saaer Road. just east of Cook Road, .n Battlmore Township ° ’r % A mercurial Mother Nature went from a pounding rain to sunny £ J‘Trt downpour again. V, • Bl" ,bal w‘,s nol'^ng compared to the storm that stm^M chinan on June 8. ci nt Beecher Tornado touched down in Genesee County and riDn tk «n g mile path of 1953. That was when the legendary P-n*® and an estimated S19 million in damage. It ranks a" !fliest tornado in destruction, causing 116 fatalit'es. W4 > .. at>out the rain. (Photo by Scott Harmsen) ' 'e dL'a Michigan history. We’d much tather compia Do you O remember? Freeport grads gather Barmer June 22. 1971 (Editors note: the wrong information was published with this photo in the June // edition.) Freeport Alumni Banquet - Saturday, June 12, former students and grads of Freeport High and the Freeport alums of Thornapple Kellogg School renewed friendships at the annual Freeport Alumni Banquet, some of whom graciously posed for the Banner photographer. Officers, pictured here, are (from left) Hazel McCaul, Caledonia, secretary; Kurt Kunde, past president; Charlie Blough, president-elect; and Floyd Fisher, treasurer, all of Freeport. Claude Walton, also of Freeport, the vice president, was not present for the photo. Alumni who traveled the farthest distance included Jack Chapman, of Newport Beach, Calif.; Mae Butler, of Kendall, N.Y.; and LaNora (Patrick) Keith of Houghton, N.Y. A social hour preceded dinner at 7, followed by a short business meeting and program. About 122 persons attended. Have you met? Slewart Gross, 74. was bom in Nashville and has been a Hastings resident for many years. He is happy to be known as one of the working-class people of this area. He was bom Jan. 31, 1946, the youngest of three children to Claude and Mildred (Craft) Gross. His sister. Glenda Stevens, and brother, Lloyd Gross, both live in Hastings. The family grew up on Thomapple Lake on what Gross described as a sort of mini-farm. His father worked for E.W. Bliss in Hastings for 40 years as a machine operator, retiring in 1969. His mother was a homemaker. The kids attended Nashville schools. Gross said he should have graduated, but slopped school early to .start work at Viking Corp, in Hastings, a job he started Dec. 3. 1965. He worked in the foundry', when Viking still had one. for the first eight years then did machine work and repair for an additional eight years before accepting an electrical apprenticeship with the company through Kellogg Community College. From that point on. he did electrical work lor Viking until he retired in 2009. after 45 years. “I started out as a laborer and then as a furnace lender,” he said, revealing a large scar on his left shin. “I got molten metal down in my shoe.” Outside of his job, he has always enjoyed working on automobiles. At one point, he said, he had more than 60 different cars. “I love to tear apart motors and transmissions, fix cars and that kind of thing,” he said. Other side jobs Gross has worked in lhe past have included working for Farmers Gas and Oil. which once stood near the comer of North Michigan A\enue liasl Thorn Street in Hastings. He also was a Hastings school bus driver in the late 1960s and early 1970s and more recently worked as a .substitute driver for the district. Gross spent 10 years as well, in the 1990s. repairing the fleet of buses for Hastings Baptist Church on Woodlawn Stewart Gross Avenue. And. in recent years, he and his wife. Diana, have delivered new.spajk.TS for J-Ad Graphics Inc. “It was really something just for sonic extra pocket cash and to get out of lhe house,” he said. Gross met his wife, Diana Kay Moore, on a church hayride. T hey didn’t start dating, though, until they started seeing each other nt lhe roller-skating rink near Nashville which has since been torn down. They were married Dec. 26, 1962. and have three children: Brenda (Gross) Dalski of Baltic Creek. Melissa Gross ol Belding, and Lyle Gross of Wayland. ‘ He was a beautiful roller-skater.” Diana commented. “It was wonderful to watch him skate in those days ” Outside of what be refers to as being a “garage tinkcref.” Gross and his wife love camp. They’ve c:mi|>cd for many years, and continue to do so as often as health permits. Triple bypass surgery in 2016 has forced him to slow down, but his disposition is as even keel as ever and he tries to have a good attitude with his friendsand family. For his love of his community, desire to work hard and dedication to his craft, Stewart Gross is this week’s Banner Bright Light. My hero: .My wife. There have been a few occasions when I have had sugar attacks and have been unconscious. Had she not found me and known what to 1 would have surely died. She has saved my life several times. She is my hero. Best invention: The gasoline engine. 1 love tearing them apart and putting them back together again Best thing about Barr> Coilnty: Everything is close, espe^a,1>’ when 1 Was working for Viking i can’t tell you how many times I would get a call to go into work and it was just a few-minute away from my house. It was really nice B I could go anywhere: Alaska, tor the hunting and the wildlife K’s s0 rUstic :,nd serene. lf 1 won the lottery. I 'v0U,d d‘V‘de H “P amongst my kid.s. If 1 could build anvlhiHg1 ,.have put jogether three Fiberg|as dune of whjch ts called -Grandpa's “>>' ' * build more of those Best advice: “6n-. a w*k hlv' begUn’ never leave it Til . Be it great or be Every family needs a Father s Though we’ll celebrate in different w ays this Sunday, there’s no doubt Father’s Day is a universal holiday: Wc ail have a father. Our dads may have passed on; they rnay have never wanted to be a part of our lives; and, in some cases, we may not even know who the man was who helped give us life. But the importance of a father’s role in a family and the principles and values his role offers arc what we should be celebrating this Father’s Day. Studies have shown that a father being affectionate and supportive greatly affects a child’s cognitive and social development. It also instills an overall sense of well­ being and self-confidence. Fathers tend to stress rules, justice, fairness, and duly in discipline. They teach children the objectivity and consequences of right and wrong that seem to be missing in so many of today’s youth. For those who may question the importance of having a father in a child’s life, studies show dads have a positive impact on their children’s ability to go through life belter prepared to raise a family of their own someday. Father’s Day celebrations - on any day, really - are especially important these days, due to the decline our culture seems to place on the importance of having a dad in our lives. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are about 70.1 million fathers throughout lhe country, and, given lhe importance of the guidance and leadership they can provide children, that’s not nearly enough. From my experience growing up with a dad in the home and being a dad myself. I realize fatherhood is an important role that shouldn’t be taken for granted. Wc normally look to fathers as lhe breadwinners, disciplinarians and authority figures. But fathers, like mothers, also play an important role in the development of a child’s overall well-being because children often look to their fathers for security and direction in their lives. In recent years, there have been countless studies on the importance of having a dad in a child’s life because a father brings a different parenting style that’s important to a child’s overall development. According to the U.S. Census Bureau. 19.7 million children - more than J in 4 — live without a father in the home. That is why there has been so much discussion about the “father factor” and the lack of a father contributing to many of the social ills we’re facing as a nation. Research shows that when a child is raised in a father-absent home - or a home absent of lhe values a father brings to a family - the child is affected in so many ways: Children are more likely to be raised in poverty, with behavioral problems, and are more likely to commit crimes, suffer from obesity, use drugs and alcohol or drop out of school. The problem has become so serious that, if it were classified as a disease, fatherlessness would be classified as an epidemic worthy of national attention. Though recent research shows fathers are taking a more active role in caring for their children, the number of kids growing up without fathers - or without father values - is still a rising concern to the stability of our families. From education to personal health to career success, children who are without fathers find themselves at a disadvantage to peers raised in twoparent households. The impact can be seen everywhere, in pop culture, in the media and in government policies. It’s not as if we don’t recognize the problem. According to a report from lhe National Center for Fathering, 722 percent of the U.S. population indicates that fatherlessness is the most significant family or social problem facing our country. The survey indicates that, of children who were part of the “post-war generation, 87.7 percent of them grew up with two biological parents who were married to each other. Today, only about 62 percent will spend their childhood in an intact family that provides routine family bonding activities like reading bedtime stories, praying daily, and eating meals together - all of which have a profound effect on a child’s overall (,!her reawn.' ‘ nrross the country, though expefenr' g far.right activists also because they're playing on the emottons of easily influenced young people who have becn^ocked up due to the novel coronavirus. It didn’t take much to set them oil. Research shows that the lack of father figures in young people's lives can make a difference in how they view >«f«-* rules and regulations and a work ethic that helps create a sense of responsibility. As part of a 26-year study, the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology indicated that the No. I factor indeyelopmg empathy in children is father involvement Fathers who spend regular time alone with their children translate into children who became compassionate adults. “Every father should remember, one day, his son will follow his example, not his advice,” said author, inventor, engineer, and business leader Charles Kettering. That’s why the statistics for families without a father figure in the home are frightening. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there’s a disproportionate number of black children under age 18 who live in a single-parent home, and more than 70 percent of these kids are bom to unmarried parents, of which 75 percent arc being raised by a single parent. Among Hispanic' children, 58 percent are being raised in a single-parent home. White one-parent families make up 37 percent of the population; and, in Asian families, the number of children in a single-parent home is 21 percent. The Census Bureau survey also showed that children with actively involved fathers are 43 percent more likely to do well in school. And 33 percent without actively involved fathers are more likely to repeat a grade than those with engaged fathers. The numbers are telling. Fathers do play an important role in raising our children - the next generation that will one day run the country. I was raised in a family that believed, as author Wallace Wattles once wrote, “The very best thing you can do for the whole world is to make the most of yourself.” Even though I haven’t accomplished everything I want in life, my parents gave me lhe foundation I needed to succeed. But how many of our young people hear that kind of advice? They seem to be focused on lhe worst things that could happen in their lives, which pretty much describes their situation, so they lose sight of what could be, over what appears to be. The evidence shows dads really have a uniquely important impact on the lives of their children, yet today’s culture seems to place little value on the role of fathers. Plato once proclaimed, “The best way of training the young is to train yourself at the same time; not to admonish them, but to be seen never doing that of which you would admonish them.” Anyone can be a father, but it lakes someone special to be a dad. Happy Father’s Day to all of our “dads,” to those families celebrating the memory of a father, and to those families dedicated to instilling a father’s values among their loved ones. Fred Jacobs, CEO, J-Ad Graphics Inc. Banner Devoted to the Interests of Barry County since 1856 punished by.. Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phono: (269) 945-9554 < Fax: (269) 945-5192 News and press releases: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising: ads@jadgraphics com Frederic Jacobs • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT Ctosdnu ads accept M nd NT • 830 am io 5 00 p.m. Hank Schuuring CFO mX'gS Mike Gilmore Ty Greenlield Colleen Egieston __________ Jennie Yonker •NEWSROOM• work. ,n' ’ 'toriri In. or ./ (han cver jn a SOCiety that "!ory‘ Ute traditional family of having <" nd dad role in a child's life. 1 think "Zt" me of the racial unrest we're The Hastings Publisher & CEO “ w 1 "orked with at Vikins "aS k,,H “'.a 8™mpy old (In. , bui he and I never for„ i( ,M>d < P:,Sbed ‘>n 'o my kids. 8 ‘ in recerI ) ay Rebecca Pierce (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Breit Bremer (Sports Editor) Greg Chandler Taylor Owens Subscription Rate3. $45 per year in Barry County ’ ln joining counties ___ _______ 555 Per year elsewhere POSTMASTERl Sum at*., P.O. Bax 188 Hast.ngi, Mi 4905a 0188 at Hastngs. Ml 49053 l0- �Trie Hastings Banner — Thursday. June 19. 2020 — Page 5 Delton Founders QUEST commentary Festival canceled l he 2020 Delton Founders Festival, origi­ nally scheduled for Aug. 13-16, has been canceled due to COVID-19 concerns. “The festival hoard did not make this deci­ sion in haste," a press release stated. “Many components of the festival were Liken into consideration. The health and safety of our volunteers, participants and community is our top priority." Some of these festival activities, may be included at Delton Oktoberfest, which is scheduled for Oct. 8-10. J^id it take a global pandemic ° r®think education? Tl'<‘VOV|D-H)‘"’ieDc'Vi" fright train, h nr» Pandennccame at us like a and \\e all bee- '° eveiYthing ntore difficult lllink about inv UnK U)o bus>’ to tr> ,o change. Bin her•*? Me,n‘v Or major educational Nation when we\T’?a‘d in,° ,he con‘ CM point Too k„ actually, are at our weakfigure out thc ueX'tep" ’ h™'''- S'°P ‘U’d Let's ntak^a^list1011^ scboo’s working on? ness. K^ IU lnenkd befdlh and suicide awarcsocinF/J1? ^Or !hc wb°fr child and teach social-emouonal learning. • J1 le^n.‘te lraunta-informed practices. Kcducmg equity uaps. ing mPro'’nS an<i enhancing distance leam- encing the cun ent schooling scenario differ­ ently. Your kids, your neighbors, thc kids in your youth group. or the kids playing basket­ ball too late al night? They all have their own stories, loo. Each story, each individual kid. makes me think differently about what schools “should look like” in the future. Before we head into a new school year with a backpack full of uncertainty, we need to ask critical questions: Do we have lhe con­ viction to stop treating our students like a product on an assembly line and start treating them as the individuals they are? This is our chance to finally re-examine the system and rebuild it to best suit students while keeping them safe, and here’s where I’d like to start: Focus on individual learning. Actually reach out lo each student and find out where their skills are as they start the year. What are their learning goals? How do we get them there? Start addressing the things you see as equi­ ty gaps- Guess w hat? They were equity gaps BEFORE the pandemic too. Start sharing the solutions you’re dreaming up at home with your district and the state. Consider compliance vs. competence. Do wc need students to “sit through" a course if they can demonstrate they already know’ the material? How do wc measure and move on? Rethink nostalgia’s role in structure. Images of prom, lockers, Friday night lights and more often shape our perceptions of how education must be delivered. But even if we bring students “back” to classrooms physical­ ly, these experiences will be fundamentally changed for the foreseeable future. Which begs the question: Do we need the traditional classroom? With all this lime spent al home as our kids continue to learn, we've been given the gift ot an up-close look al how they experience edu­ cation. And we’ve learned firsthand some of the largest challenges teachers face daily in delivering education. Il's time we turn that knowledge into action and deliver the kind of education reform that will have an impact on all of Michigan’s students. • Managing fear. ’ We know it all needs to change. Everything, we need to do better, and we needed to do it yesterday. Solving big problems from a position of panic is about as clo\c to impossible as it gets. But we are being shown more clearly than ever: Education reform must happen. For decades, inuch of our education sys­ tem has resembled an assembly line, inflexi­ ble to lhe way students actually learn. We've largely been del’vering one product for one set of students. We’ve known for many years the “students in, students out,’* system is flawed. But with so many interlocking pieces, it’s difficult to change anything without sig­ nificant restructuring and risk-taking. COVID-19 has amplified the need for reform, but w ill ft be what finally brings about the hard wey-fc to reform? Educators, administrators, and parents and politicians scrambled to devise and deliver thc new system as the novel coronavirus rapidly shut down our schools. In a state of panic, there’s not much coordination, there's often a lack of communication, and it quickly becomes clear that resources are not distribut­ ed equitably. Yet, education has to march on. So we all male do. Like many parents. I find my personal and Jamie DeWitt is the principal and school professional lives merging as never before. Its impossible for me to separate them right leader of NexTech High School, a public «fw. so instead. I’m trying to learn from charter school nerving students in Lansing Oem. Do you feel that knot in your chest? I and Grand Rapids, Her guest commentary is ifave it. too. courtesy of Bridge Magazine. V 1 have three sons, each of whom is experi­ Something fishy behind USDA food guidelines To thc editor: Please educate > . ’n the new studies on nutrition and se ~ have been lied to. tricked and P‘,i'>0" lrv 'J" !nakc big profits for the food inJ'1^ makes us all unhealthy and dumb"' Mchupis not a veg­ etable. If we want to sun that promote unhc u • 'e must change laws > *1,gh-carbohydratc diets. . 1 am writing to ur^c11,0call on thc U.S Departments of Agn<- 1 Ufe and Health and Human Services to P^ponc publication of the report by the D»e > Sidelines Advisory Committee, so that. federal agencies in charge can have time o address serious alle­ gations by one or more members of this com­ mittee about the process that produces Dietary Guidelines for Americans. > These allegations, which recently came to light in a letter submitted by ’The Nutrition Coalition, detail serious flaws in lhe process and imply that the very reliability of our fed­ eral nutrition recommendations is in question. With 60 percent of Americans diagnosed with one or more chronic illnesses - condi­ tions that increase lhe risk for severe out­ comes and death from COVID-19 - thc LLS. Now. more than ever, needs evidence-based advice on how to maintain and restore our metabolic health. The guidelines, to date, have self-evidently been unable to flatten the curs e on the rates of these diet-related diseases. Please urge USDA-HHS to delay lhe release of the committee’s report to provide time to thoroughly investigate these allega­ tions. Dianna Solmes. Hastings Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads Check out all our Special Services: • Business Cards • Greeting Cards • Big Prints & Posters •Folding & Laminating • Custom Rubber Stamps •Plastic Binding and more! 1351 N.Broadwav (M-13) Hastings 269.9i5.91O5 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00-5:30 K. A. MUELLER ACCOUNTING I f . 7 '. 221 South Jefferson Street (Write Us A Letter: Q<now Your Legislators Michigan Legislature _ Crpfchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013 Lansing, Mich. 48909. Governor Gr®'c„h®^n. £.7.335.7868 (Constituent Services). Phone (517) 373'^9 ■ . ,je galley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Stale Representative Juli L'ta|jVgs1 N_1191 House office Building, Lansing, Ml Michigan House oilRepre e mai|. julieCa||ey@house.mi.gov 48933. Phone (517) 373 Republican, 19lh District State Senate, Phone 517State Senator Dr. John bz . h SenJBizon@Senate.Michlgan.gov; U.S. 373 2426 or toll-freeL ®55-347'®dJ9;jQQ,jg, Lansjng Ml 48909. " ’ " mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, r. • 11 C House of Representatives j ♦ Qrd District (AH of Barry Counly), 114 Cannon House Justin Amash, independent, 3rd phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 2250£ Building. Washington.^SuiIe 460, Grand Rap.ds, Mich. 49503, q515.2203, ii 5144. District of ice_ phone (616) 451-8383. 11 S Senate ■mo Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. , c.nhonov/ Democrat, 7U4 Debbie Staoen Building, Washington, D.C. 20510­ 20510. phone (202) g 2 Russen senate R Fofd Fedoral Bui|ding Gary Peters0850. District offic • 49503-2313. phone (616) 233­ 2202, phone (248) W NW. Grand RaPiab> 720 11° Michigan Capitol Information line for Congress 9 president's ’ Hastings, Michigan (269) 945-3547 www.kamuelleraccounting.com Fiaaer FaWitas C©fllecH®Ei fey M©«3a® 30s Primes Happy is the man u hose God is LORD: - Psalms • - Regular Hours starting Monday - ' SJ‘ Pray Tor Our Ration QUESTIONS: ASK US- 218 E State St. Hastings • 945-9673 OPEN Monday-Freiiy 8 30 pm. SttjrJay 9 civ500pm ------ 1 Hulst Cleaners Pick-Up Station t—— A A A A AAM/WuW, City of Hastings Position Available: School Crossing Guard This part-tirTie position assists in traffic control at assigned intersections to aid school children walking t0 and from schoo,« A regularly assianed P°sit*on as well as a substitute position callable. Ability to re*a*e to children and the general oublic and d16 ability and willingness to follow direction squired. Will be emP,oyed the Hastings Area School System &ut suPervised by the Hastings City Police Departrnent. Current minimum starting wage is per ^our w*^ attendance bonus annually- Complete iob description and application form are arable on request from Hastings Pn ice Department, 201 E. State St., Hastings, open untilflllea- Jeff Pratt Chief of Police IU7I5 and the Senate. 1 202 David /Mun Sneller. Middleville and Hanna Joy Buning. Middleville Nellie Jean Miller. Delton and Jared Richard McDonald. Delton Alex Preston Byrd. Liberty. SC and Nicole Ann Porter. Liberty. SC Eugene Neil Davis, Scotts and Penny Thayer Pittelkow, Battle Creek Nathaniel Bryant Rhoades. Dowling and Lindsey Marie Plohg, Trenton Rachael Marie Lindstrom, Middleville and Cory Lee Zigterman. Middleville Georgia Marie Barton, Plainwell and Zachart Wayne Reynolds, Plainwell BRING EVERYTHING I YOU LOVE TOGETHER! Blazing Fast Internet! k $19?9 2-YEARTV PRICE GUARANTEE 190 CHANNELS h Including Local Channels’ CALL TODAY-ForSl 00 Gift Card hwMrMna 1-855-382-2485 <Esh .A MICHAEL KINNEY PLUMBING I Licensed Master Plumber Licensed Journeyman Plumber / The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire" letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. . We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Marriage .licenses New construction, remodel, repair, drain cleaning. BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEATERS Same Dav Installation Office (269) 948-2248 Mobile (269) 838-5112 r JJM & EHLA^llE SPIMBILEB’? On lune 26th, 2020 Jim /i and Ellarie Spindler 11 will celebrate their 60th Wedding Anniversary. ' l 1hey moved to Hastings , in 1966 where they raised live children ff and now entertain six i i grandchildren. Mom 11 and Dad, throughout y our marriage, you have 3 shomt us three keys to love: humor, faith, and a II sense ofadventure. 'Ihank} ou for all you have shared with us. Congratulations on 60 years of V v marriage! BV love you. Heidi. Sandy Bob, Anna, and Christy. , Tillman Infrastructure, LLC is registering a 199ft monopole structure located at 10197 W. Garbow Road, Mid­ dleville. Ml 49333. The structure coordi­ nates are: (N42-44-19.97/ W85-29-24.31). No lighting is anticipated. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) An­ tenna Structure Registration (ASR) Form 854 file number is A1168414. Interested persons may review the application at wwwfcc.gov/asr/applications by entering the file number. Environmental concerns may be raised by filing a Request for En­ vironmental Review at wwwJccxLQv/asr/ environmentalrequest within 30 days of thedate that notice of the project is pub­ lished on the FCC’s website. FCC strong­ ly encourages online filing. A mailing ad­ dress for a paper filing is: FCC Requests for Environmental Review. ATTN: Ramon Williams, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554. �__ Gary Lee IVliHe____ ____ j Gan I ce While, age 61 of Hastings, passed away Tuesday. June 16. 2020 He u;b bom on July 10. 1958 lo parents Lloyd and Relha W hite. He spent thc first few \l in in Morgantown. WV. then moved lo Brighton. attending Howell schools. Gary started working at a young age, and shared memories of this recently. At age 20. he completed his master mechanic certification, lie worked in two dealerships in Hastings before transferring to Kalamazoo School System. He worked for 23 years in the iran.sportatjon department as a bus mechanic, retiring two years ago lo stay home and enjoy time with his grandkids and dog, Baxter. Oser thc years. Gary has been a “Chevy” man. No Fords allowed in his driveway, fie Melissa and nephew. Todd in Florida; was a huge NASC AR fan. traveling in a in-laws, Denny (Denise). Andy (Vickie). Ren converted bus to thc Michigan race two times (Nicky) Graham, all from East Jordan; a year and had season tickets to Bristol. I N. several nieces and nephews that called him He went to deer camp several times, but not Uncle Scary Gary. He was able to say sure he ever hunted He got his first deer up goodbye to longtime friends Tim, Roxann. north (hast Jordan) on his in-laws’ property. Doug ’and Kim. Mike C. and Robin’s friends I hat picture still has center space on the Colleen and Ashley . refrigerator. Gary had several buddies that Gary was al home as he requested with met up every Friday afternoon at Doug’s family and friends under lhe guidance o! garage. He didn’t like to travel much lately Spectrum Health Hospice. A wise little girl but loved to talk to anyone who stopped over. said lhe other day. “Papa will be happy in Gary' was preceded in death by his brother. heaven.” Michael While: in-laws, David and Evelyn A memorial .service to celebrate his Graham, and grandparents. memory will be held at a later date. He is survived by his wife of 37 years. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions Cindy, mother Retha: father Lloyd: children. can be made to Spectrum Hospice or Barry Felicity (Orion) of Benbrook. IX. Robin of County Humane Society . Hastings. Scott of Middleville: grandkids Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. Leila Sweeney, Cohen Janies. Kinsley Bailey. To leave an online condolence, visit www. Graham Smith; brother. David While; uncles, girrbachfuneralhome.net. aunts, cousins in West Virginia: niece. • Traditional and Cremation Services Pre-Planning Services Dirge Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible • Serving All Faiths • Prv-arrangenient Transfers Accepted 328 S. Broadway, Hastings. .MI 19058 269-945’3252 • www.girrbachfuner.ilhome.net Owner Manager Family Owned and Operated Serving Hastings. Barry County and Surrounding ( .(immunities for 50 years Worship Together ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. 269 945­ 4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip. Mass 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Mass 8 and 11 a.m. Sunday. ' HASTINGS BAH 1ST CHURC H 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Matt Moser. Lead Pastor. Sunday Services. 10:30 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10.30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday. Family Night 6:30-8 p.m., AWANA (Children Kindergarten-5th Grade). 6:30 X p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd . P.O. Box 765, (corner if Milo Rd A -8. M 43). Delton. Ml 49046. Pastor Roger ( faypool. '517) 204­ 9390 Sunday Worship Service 10:30 lo H JOjin, Nursery and Children’s Ministry Wednesday night Bible study and prayer tune 6 30 to 7'30 pm. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel­ chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter .Adams, contact 6! 6-690-8609. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. Slate Rd.. P.O. Box 273, Hastings, Ml 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269 -948-09(H) Website: www.Iifegatecc.com Sunday Worship 10 a in. Wednesday 1 Jfc Group 6:30 p in. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Dicey Road. Dowling, MJ 49050. Pastor. Steve Olmstead (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of Who jesus Is To! he World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy.. P.O. Box 8, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Email ha&L flJlcl2_gn]iul.ti2in. Website: Will Pastor Brian Teed. Stu­ dent Ministries Director. Emma Miller. Worship Director, Mar­ tha Stoetzel. Sunday Morning Worship: 9am and 10:30 a.m. beginning June 21 until further notice. Due to the current health crisis, our nursery is temporari­ ly closed and w e are temporari­ ly suspending all Children’s ministries Our church sanctu­ ary is set up for social distanc­ ing. Please keep your family together during the worship service. We are a multi-genera­ tional church family and under­ stand that while this could mean outbursts^ or pot­ ty-breaks, we arc not inconve­ nienced by your little one. In an effort to help you. we are pro­ viding weekly activity bags for each child. These lugs are to lx? taken home or disposed of after each use Tor more inionnation contact lhe church Reinhard LaulXnMcjn. ape 69 of Hastings, died Sunday, June |q 2020. lie was bom March 3D 1951 in Jcna» East Germany the son of Jakob Laubenstein and Herta (Schenkle) Laubenstein. In 1954. Jakob and his f;unj|v escaped Communist Germany to West Germany and lived there tor two years in a refugee camp. They were sponsored by Grace Lutheran Church. in Monroe, arriving jn (\ew York in August 1956 and then transported to Monroe where Reinhard s parents became citizens in 1976. Reinhard was a 1969 graduate of Monroe High School. He lnarried Sharon (Doll) Laubenstein on August 26. 1994. Aller graduation he Worked al Chrysler Trenton Engine. During nle Vietnam Crisis, he enlisted in the Navy and received training in nuclear power. ||c servcd aboard the USS Guitarro SSN665, a nuclear-powered fast attack submarine on the west coast. During his time on the submarine, he achieved thc experience to obtain the job title Engineering Watch Supervisor”. Reinhard was honorably discharged as MM-1 (SS) in June 1979. c From his military training and vast experience. Reinhard was able to gain employment by the Detroit Edison Company working at the Fermi 2 Nuclear Power Plant which was under construction at the time. He worked through the ranks obtaining a Senior Reactor Operator License, retiring as shift manager on July 2. 2006 and moved to Hastings after retirement. Reinhard enjoyed playing golf, gardening, collecting coins and traveling. He loured European countries. Great Britain, and Ireland, and even had the opportunity to visit thc small town in Germany. Jena, where he was bom. Reinhard was preceded in death by his parents: his wife. Sharon: his brother. Siegfried Dmibepsteia and sister, Adelheid “Heidi” (I .aubenstcin) Cantrell. He is survived by his .sons, Eric and Joseph Duibcnstein, lx»ih of La Salle, sister. Ilildcburg Kphrer of Monroe; niece, Heide Marie (I.aubenstcin; Setzler of Monroe; niece, Jennifer (Kehrer)Ncikirk of Monroe; nephew, Rlilph Neal of Grand Rapids, and niece. Julie (Kehrcr) Richard of Broomfield. CO. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to March of Dimes (marchofdimes.org) or St. Jude’s Children’s 1 lospital (stjudc.org/donaietoday). Visitation will be held Friday, June 19. 2020 at Girrbach Funeral Home, 328 S. Broadway. Hastings. MI 49058 from 10-11:30 a.m. with a Graveside Service directly following al Fuller Cemetery, 4400 N. Charlton Park Road: Hastings, Ml 49058. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. i u-- •---------------------- 'nt 1 1 — ->■^1 | B i ll Van Denbury There will be a Celebration of Life service for Bill VanDenburg on Friday. June 19. 2020 at the Charlton Park Pavilion from 5 to 8 pan. * Prayer Service and sharing of memories at 6 p.m. with a nival ,o follow. -■■■ 'Si 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 1699 W, M43 Highway, Hastings. Ml 49058. 945-4700 1301 W, Green St. Hastings 945-9541 I_______ Robert Kenneth A'fey. age 100, passed away on June 9.2020v . Robert was born on April II. 1920 m Johnstown Township, the son of Fred and Lola (Winters) Frey, On April 24, 1946 Robert married the l<?ve of his life. Mary (Matthews) Frey. They were married 56 years before she preceded him m death. Robert served for a number of years on the Johnstown Township hoard and was one of the two first trustees. He was lhe treasurer of Culver School when they added on a new room, bought the first bus, and hired the first bus driver. Robert was a member of Bedford Bible Church for ninny years, he was also a member of the Michigan Milk Producers and served on the Brotherhood Board of Briggs. Banfield, and Dowling Churches. Robert worked at Eaton’s from 194! to 1943 before he bought interest in the family farm where he farmed until 1964. After leaving the farm he went to work for Nabisco and then Kellogg’s in 1966 until he retired in 1982. Robert enjoyed hunting and vacationing in Canada to fish and to watch his best fish fryer, his wife. Mary. He was an avid ligers fan. starting to listen to games with his grandad in 1933. He frequently went to spring training with his wife and daughter in the 1970s and 1980s. Robert was proud to have attended his last Tiger game when he was 89 years old. Robert is survived by son, Kenneth (Roxanne) Frey; grandchildren, Michael Frey, Rob Frey, and Ellie (Tony) Westworth; many great grandchildren; special friend. Mary Lou Powell; and several nieces and nephews. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, wife. Mary' Frey; daughter: Karen “Kit” Frey; brother. Leo Frey; and sisters, Eloise Shepherd and Joyce Myers. Robert’s family received'' friends qn Friday. June 12. 2020. at Bedford Bib-. Church, where his funeral service was conducted.Pastor John Fulton officiating. Burial will take place in Banfield Cemetery. Memorial contributions to Bedford Bible Church will be appreciated. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Robert’s family. Cappon Dorothy J. (Bump) Cappon passed away on June 14,2020 al Thornapple Manor. She was born in Hastings, on March 13. 1929 to Clarence and Myrtle L. (Cheeseman) Bump. She attended schools in Hastings and graduated from High School in 1947. She worked after school and on Saturday s at the Ben Franklin Store. After graduation, she worked as a clerk in the IBM Department of the Hastings Manufacturing Company . She joined the Grand Street E.U.B. Church as a child and was married in lhe same church to Robert L. Cappon of Woodland on September 16. 1950. She then worked with her husband on thc farm for 25 years and later went to work al lhe Provincial (Nursing) Home, now known as Hastings Rehab for 10 years before retirement. Dorothy was a member of lhe Michigan Steam Engine and Threshers Club. Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband. Robert; two brothers. Clarence Bump, Jr., and Duane Bump. She is survived by her children. Barbara (Cappon) Steele and Gordon (Terri) Cappon: two grandchildren, Craig (Shana) Cappon and Trent (Stacie) Cappon; five great­ grandchildren and several nieces, nephews, and in-laws. Memorial contributions in honor of Dorothy can be made to Wtxxlland United Methodist Church. 203 N Main St, Woodland, Ml 48897. or Tltomapple Manor. 2700 Nashville Rd. Hastings, Ml 4‘X)58. A graveside service was held on Wednesday. June 17. 2020 at WixKlIand Memorial P.irk Cemetety. 3551 Velte Road; Woodland. MI 48897. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachiunerdlhome.net. Rising tides threaten county roads across state Kocks the size of a V»lk5"’i,pcl’- T.hw is 77;h information on worship service is provided by The Ikisiin^s Banner, what-s needed in sonM. locations to fix (he die churches and these imyd businesses:_ _ _ _ _eroding _ _ _ _shoreline _ <>f i "u Supcr“,r- according Him James J Peck Jr. . age 30 of Hastings, formerly of Detroit passed away June 2, 2020. He was bom January 27. 1990 in Kalamazoo, the son of James and Stacy (Ferguson) Peck. He attended DeltonKellogg and Hastings before graduating from Maple Valley. His work career began with Katerberg-Vcrllage, he worked for Maximum Quality for many years and was the owner of Peck Paint. Jimmy was a .sharp shooter. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing and foraging. Spending his childhood as a member of the Maple Valley Lightning Bolts 411 chib. Some of his best times were spent on the water. He was lucky enough to live on Guernsey Lake, Torch Lake, and Lake St. Claire. One of his favorite adventures led him to harpoon alligators with Alligator Management in the Florida Everglades. He loved to challenge every one lo a game of pig and riding dirt bikes, quads, anything he could make go fast. He and his son spent most of their time together on the trampoline, wrestling, reading and singing, drawing and making YouTube videos. He was sensitive, he was kind. He was strong and agile and he walked with a swagger. He will be dearly missed. He is preceded in death by a grandfather William Peck and a grandmother Patricia Ferguson, a beloved girlfriend Tin Jean and a lifelong friend Shawn Martin. He is survived by his parents. James and Stacy Peck: a son, Janies J. Peck 111; a sister. Annie (Garth) Peck-Jarman; nephews and a niece. Cash. Macy, and Knyd; grandparents. Gary' (Willa) Ferguson and Bonnie McPherson. He was loved by many aunts, uncles and cousins country w ide. He will be laid to rest alongside his Grandfather in Scotts. A celebration of life will be held August 1. 2020 at the Peck-Jarman residence in Battle Creek. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. •o »oug Mills, ennin<*r-!"a.n:,eer °f ,hc BitragaCouniyRoadCon,|1,'”!0n'|. . ,. Why? Great Lakes water levels are rhe Inghesr since the 19m. fhe n<lc15 rising, and It’s not expected i0 c u|>an>"",c '°"n1,1 AP"I. the Con",? Road Asscx.at.on ol Michigan reported Lt >,iJ"pl"il C°"n,> '"••ds with Great Uk'^U’line w'."|^u're i"rs ai„d thX: ;v,kr,ila;,ic and r^n^^aH-"1 down to the shoreline are only some of the challenges we face.” As tourist season gels underway, eroding shoreline ami damaged roads are becoming an even bigger problem. In Ontonagon (’ounty, high waler levels are threatening thc east entrance of Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Michigan’s largest stale park. “To see such a well-traversed county road eroded like that is janing,” Mike Maloney, engineer-manager of the Ontonagon County Road Commission, said. “CR 107 1107"1 Engineers Memorial Highway} has been an imjxHtant road to generations of tourists as they visit thc state park. It’s concerning how this is going to affect our community." Emergency funding is typically meant to address single-event stonns, so it will not cover the costs ol high water related toad repair. Specnd state or federal appropriation Will Ik needed for this problem "*e,,7JI'clp.'\Ii|Ksa,d -ilo^fullv.the U K eg,,)ators and our congressional dele,:..­ " ',r',v,de >'>•'« funding to address this . 1Te,1S|,'ral','lH "f control. The cur­ e iX«™ ” " 3,111" -'acerbated by •he shoreli,re^X<°*' lhe i.suv is the cover story in the latest 5319 the Cot>ni'v'u"T(',,l'e‘’Uanerl>.',’un’a1*’'' The issue'-. °|il ''’soci;illl’n of Michigan, loaded it | ‘liP‘‘n|l> <>• -n.cX'aX?,' -renews- �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 18, 2020 — Pago 7 .he toofc back at the s columns on local history m the Hastings Banner Commi'sioiwr . wCMctl| Wll.OJnej arn ' .Jnigh| ,r "> his n ip last Th»r'<W<t|, Da H s journeying extended through • '• and <>vcr „1|(, Manitoba, and h‘- (’ha| ‘ kinds of weather, from a |o a >■ mercury up to 115 degrees do'"M1 Munn. Think ola country lbn«h11' salv,," J,lne! Al,<i yet rhe storm was the crops, since thc snow tm" . ls it tell and the tven.herlx-ean>e«am n'» d1|eya|lcrairi BflGK THE PAGES Storms and strawberries in 1901 news Potato extinction predicted The June 20. !‘X)I. Hasting, Herald, like most newspapers of its day. had bits of news from the state, country and world, shared bv other publishers. ' What may have been of more interest to readers, however, were the bits of news about local residents. Snippets on travel, promotions, accidents, celebrations, social gatherings and more could be found in the columns each week. Here’s a glimpse of what Herald readers would have seen this week 119 years ago. Local and Personal Born June 12 to Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Slocum, a son. Geo. IL Brooks* pension has been restored and reissued at $14 a month. The annual fanners picnic will be at Thomapple Lake Friday. Aug. 9. Mis.s Kate Stevens has secured a position as trimmer in a milliner store in Middleville. Mrs. Chas. Herman went to Kalamazoo Saturday to reside. Her husband has employment there. Maple Hurst Dairy. Chas. H. Gardner proprietor is now represented by a fine new wagon that arrived Saturday. Miss Mary Powers went to Ann Arbor )’« sterday lo receive her diploma as a graduate of lhe University of Michigan. Yesterday. Miss Gertrude Lake went lo Middleville, where she has employment in the Warren Featherbone factor). Some 160 eighth-grade diplomas were granted in the county as lhe result of the late district school examinations. Ross Burton was pleasantly surprised Friday evening b) a number of his young friends, lhe occasion being his 181’1 birthday. The Misses Calla Mills. Pearl Hinckley and Alice Miller went Monday to Kalamazoo, where they have secured positions in the asylum. Friday morning. Albert Hilton, while working al Kalamazoo for (he CK&S railway, cut thc heel of his right foot quite badly with an adze. The severe electric storm Sunday night did considerable damage to telephones, pulling a dozen or more of them out of service temporarily. Miss Minnie Trumbull is visiting her sister. .Mrs. Chas. Daniels, in Delroit for two weeks, after which she goes to Ypsilanti lo attend the summer normal school. [Barry County did not yet have its own normal, or teacher training, school |. Mrs. E.F. Bollum entertained lhe embroidery club Iasi Thursday afternoon. The next meeting of lhe club will probably resolve itself into a picnic al Leach Lake. All persons interested in peaches arc invited to attend the next meeting of the Farmers and bruit Growers union, at the courthouse in this city Saturday. June 22. at 2 p.m. John K. Babcock, cooper, of thc second ward, was overcome by lhe heal Friday forenoon and fell prostrate on the sidewalk in front of Marple’s baker)’. He was taken into lhe bakery, resuscitated and afterward removed to his home. D.M. Webb is nursing a felon on his right hand. [A felon is a painful abscess of deep tissues in lhe fingertip typically caused by a bacterial infection.] Dr. George Waddle came home from Kalamazoo Monday quite sick. For sale - Baby carriage, also Barry County alias. Inquire of Walter R. Eaton. Mrs. Clarence Bennett drew the fourth quill offered by the Daughters of Rebekah. A new second-hand furniture store and a cigar factory are recent additions to ’Jonesville** Wanted: Good boy to learn barber trade. Steady job until trade is completed. -Busby Bros. The Citizens’ Telephone Company are putting up poles and completing arrangements to move their central office upstairs within a few days. Darwin McOmber was attacked with paralysis last Thursday and has been in a precarious condition ever since. His right side is paralyzed. [He died June 22. age 79J William Leonard is $65 poorer than he was Iasi Friday, someone having taken that amount from a pocketbook which he had in a drawer at home. A new cement sidewalk is being laid on the Jefferson Street side of lhe National Bank property. An ornamental iron fence will be built on the inner edge of the walk, to protect people from falling down the area to lhe basement. Flower Sunday was duly observed by Emmanuel Sunday school last Sunday afternoon. A festival service, prepared for the occasion, was rendered and recitations were given by lhe children. The church was handsomely adorned with flowers. John F. Mason, formerly a Nashville boy. bin now' of Crystal Falls, Upper Peninsula, was in town Monday, the guesl of School Commissioner Ketcham Mr. Mason was elected school commissioner of Iron County this spring and will go into office July 1. l he district schools of Carlton picnicked and held graduating exercises at LaFayette Knowles’ grove last Friday. About 400 people were present, and the affair was a grand AT THE WEST END HARDWARE. house work: good Mrs. E.C. Bowling, Jefferson Street. t here will be an w - m and strawberry social at Fred ®um|Plh).•'!J cv«ning, June 28. for the benefit of t^ minister. Every body welcome. f n Get a sample . . "oy»l Garden tea. Japan. Ceylon. Eng _ wakfast, oolong, young Hyson and In one-quarter. onehalf and onc'Poun1<!JL .ag.e^ We can suit every tea drinker.-Ha and Van Annan. Mr. and Mrs. Geo- Hooper of Dallas. Texas arrived in the city M°n to visit the latter’s parents. Mr. and Mrs- 1 arcus Stebbins, and other relatives. M15- °°Pcr will spend the summer here. Wm. Hendershott, tomierly a resident of this vicinity, had the misfortune (o gel his left hand into lhe gear of a machine in Nichols & Shepard’s [farm machinery] factor)’ in Battle Creek last Thursday, smashing that member so badly he will lose lhe last two fingers. Sunday. Mrs. Ira Vanyalkenburgh and Mrs. Stella Greble went out riding and stopped at the residence of Dr. H A. Barber on Jefferson Street. While there. Mrs. Greble missed a diamond from one of her finger rings which cost about $200. The carriage was searched, as was the lawn in front of the doctor’s house, but the missing gem was not found. Monday morning, Wm. H. Goodyear, while walking downtown, moved the grass at the edge of the sidewalk and noticing something, picked up lhe diamond. Dr. Clarence Barber was sitting on the porch, and Mr. Goodyear ascertained who was its owner and phoned her... . It is unnecessary to state that Mrs. Greble was greatly elated at lhe fortunate recovery' of the gem. A good chance Owing to the pressure of other work, we have decided to discontinue custom work al our shop. This opens up a good opportunity for some party to start a shop, with small capital, for doing planing, matching and gelling outhouse flashing material. We could furnish such a party with everything required to start one should they desire, at reasonable prices and on liberal terms. Bentley, Rider and Co. Scientists are telling us horrible tales about the potato these days. One says that sprouting potatoes are full ot a deadly poison known as solanin. and another declares that through long reproduction by “eyes,” the potato has lost the power of producing seed and must soon become extinct. Additional local There will be a big day of sports and games in Woodland Thursday. June 27. Walter Eaton and family will leave for their new home in the southwest tomorrow. Die son of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Chase who has been very sick is convalescent. Rev. H.H. VanAuken preached an able address to the graduating class Sundayevening. Edward Curren of South Haven is spending the summer with his cousin. Miss Ida Eaton, in this city. The Bowling Dress Stay factory has been shut down for a few days in order lo put in some new machinery'. Wm. J. Cramer, an inmate of the county house for the past two weeks, died Tuesday night, aged 58 years. J.B. Smith and wife of Albion, who are spending a few days with friends al Coats Grove, were in the city yesterday. Coven Freer has done a fine job of cement sidewalk laying in front of the Burton property adjoining the City Bank. Mrs. Satie Tinkler-Alien arrived in the city Monday from Calif°n,*a for a visit with idatives and friends before returning to Toledo. The proprietors d nearly a|| qle business places in lhe city, except drug stores and meat markets, have agreed to close their stores on July 4. lhe seventh annual Barry County Soldicrs Association will be 0,1 21-23. . Mr. and Mrs. first anniversary friends. Lust nigh1 entertained al H’eir p encampment of the and Sailors’ Picnic 1e fairgrounds Aug. celebrated their 10 <hcir /?lder ones were “nd tOniehl <?nrin£-Tooth Harrows and Cultivators. Osbom Fresh Lot ot B JV? HENDERSHOTT. OPPOSITE COURT -------- "j jne 1901 - Nol only did horses aid in travel, Horse power was still the way to go pu|(jng implements like this cultivator, they also were essential l° (Hastings Herald) 33 ”*‘r X? su,,on a,’d ciub - iis eighth W|| l hold (hr . Ha > I llK;iM'-'hodist church p .u o torte rec •> lhe nH.lnbcR havc !M| luesday <*' (>f invitations. ls‘'Ued a large nt1' Woman's chib went lo > everal ladies . s attend the annual 1. e Odessa yes pdessa Woman’s Chib PK’nic of the I Portland, South Ionia 1 ne chibs of vjted to be the guests of •«’d Hastings dr Ur ft U/ w i9 U/ \if \b Hr \i/ iff W T. R. Pancoast, JEWELRY, RICH CUT GLASS ano FINE CHINA, PHOTOGRAPHIC SUPPLIES. $ Defective emiflbt. ^1 * .... .An Up-to-Date Stock and Reenable Prices. Corrected by Properly Pitted Lenses. rznz A local resident lost a $200 diamond from a ring, which was later found by a mer­ chant and returned. Stores such as Pancoasts offered jewelry and other indulgences. (Hastings Herald) the Lake Odessa club that day. The graduating exercises of the Nashville Letters addressed to thc following persons High School will be tonight when 11 of the remain unclaimed in this office and will be brightest boys and girls that ever stood before sent to the dead-letter office if to called for by a Nashville audience ... will receive their July I: Wm. Collins. Wm. Sackett, Clinton sheepskins. Harvey, Miss Maud Smith, Mrs. John Scott, The tax rate is so low in the village of Mrs. Halstead. Mrs. Ellen Jones. Mrs. Sarah Nashville that it is feared the people will not Cramer. know they have any taxes to pay al all. It is Tuesday evening, June 25. the society of only 39 cents. the United Brethren Church will hold a A large amount of wool is being handled at strawberry festival on the lawn at Mrs. A.H. Nashville this season. Ickes. Everybody invited. The proceeds to go Nashvillians now breathe easier, especially to our pastor. Rev. I J. Tripp. The city band when the weather is dry. The sprinkler man, will furnish music for the occasion. -Mrs. Charley Spellman, has appeared on the streets Tungate. Scc’y. with a brand-new, up-to-date sprinkler. Wm. Freeman of Baltimore [Township] had a very narrow’ escape from death or a Correspondents’ columns serious accident Saturday afternoon. His PRAIRIEVILLE: The Epworth League horse became frightened at thc 4 o’clock train literary meeting Tuesday evening was on the CK&S railroad, ran upon the track and enjoyable and profitable. Subject of study was just got between the cattle guard and a maple “China, its past, present and future.” tree, on Battle Creek Street, as lhe train BANFIELD: Campers arc beginning to whizzed past. The carriage was slightly locate once more al Fine Lake. Mr. Melcher damaged. Since writing the above, our of Bailie Creek, with his family, arc now Dowling correspondent writes that Mr. settled on Glenn Dewey’s grounds. Freeman was quite seriously injured, one rib During lhe severe storm last Wednesday, a being broken. valuable horse belonging to Albert King was The time of lhe circuit court hasjoecn killed by lightning. occupied most of the week with the ejectment Andrew B ressee had a baming-raising case of Oren Hughes vs. Donald McLeay. The Friday, but a lerrible rain storm caused a litigants own adjoining farms in Orangeville postponement of the work. A bountiful supper and are quarreling over a line ... We was served and the tables were attractively sei understand that lhe total value of the land in in thc front yard, but the storm coming up so dispute cannot be much more than $50, and suddenly soaked everything through and yet able lawyers fought the case with as much through. Since every man had brought his tenacity as though a fortune were involved. appetite with him, no great harm was done, The case went to the jury yesterday noon, and and all thoroughly enjoyed their meal. WOODLAND: Dor Stowell’s bam was after being out 24 hours, they brought in a verdict today noon in favor of lhe defendant. struck with lightning last week, doing slight Another case very similar to lhe Hughes- damage. Field day sports, horse races and bailgame McLeay case is now on trial. Arthur Geslcr of Cedar Creek, while June 27. Liberal cash prizes for the winners in attending court here yesterday, received a each event. Come one, come all. We see that some of our businessmen are message from his brother. Dr. A.E. Gesler of Saranac announcing lhe death of lhe doctor’s not asleep. Judging from lhe amount of wife. Vesta C.A.. at noon. Dr. Gesler has furniture going out from England’s store, he is many friends in this county who will be having an excellent trade. He has secured a pained to hear of his sad bereavement. The delivery wagon, and customers will now’ have cause of Mrs Gesler’s death was cancer of the their purchases brought home without extra liver. She had been several times to Grace cost. DELTON: Ebcn Pennock of Hastings was Hospital. Detroit, and had consulted the most eminent physicians of Grand Rapids and Ann here last Saturday to attend the funeral of Arbor, but to no avail Mrs. Gesler was a Miss Myrtle Belle Norwood. 26. who died of grand woman and will be mounted by a host consumption June 12. YANKEE SPRINGS: People arc flocking of friends in this county, as well as at her to the resorts this warm weather. A large home in Saranac. company from Freeport are at their cottage. Ladies Aid Society of Yankee Springs will Our neighbors meet with Mrs. Count Friday afternoon, June The bridge across Quaker brook al the 28. Strawberries are lhe chief attraction. south end of Main Street in Nashville is to be Mrs. Raymond visited her parents near torn down, the place which it spans filled up. Nashville Saturday: a long drive and short and a new bridge is to be put in 100 feel north visit. of where the old one stands. DOWLING: Fay Clemence’s new barn was The class of 1901, Middleville High struck by lightning one day last week. Since School, graduates tonight. There are five he was home, he easily extinguished lhe members in the class. Rev. J. Herman Randall flames’, hence, no great damage was done. of Grand Rapids, w ill deliver an address. The Willison family reunion occurred at S.D. Kopf of Grand Rapids, a representative Mrs. WJL Omisbee’s last Monday. z\ large, of the Electric Power Co., was in the village happy, nois) crowd was present, and Dowling on business recently. He says unless the would have been ’Taken’* had not thc sheriff machinists strike or some unforeseen trouble been present to keep them under control. We prevents, lhe company will have its wires hope to see many more such happy gatherings strung to the village and power turned on by at Mrs. Ormsbee’s residence, and may they all about Sept. I. A number of car loads of poles live to meet another year is lhe wish of the have arrived. -Middlfyill*' $u,t . writer. . . The Freeport schools closed last week, and STATE ROAD: Emesi (. bwles is creeling a the youngsters of that town are now reveling commodious hay shed. in their freedom from that dreadful tyrant of Mrs. Bain’s son-in-law is looking around to thc juvenile world, the school ma am. buy a farm. Elmer Ekert of Freeport arrived at. he mature aeeoi'21 years last week.So. •• Courthouse News boys thought the proper thing to do was he him celebrate the event with some of he r Licensed to IVcd Howard E. Holds, Battle Creek. 28, and finest music. After looting aJew selectionsAmy Houghtalin, Baltimore. 28. thc boys texvk the cake - and ice <’rean*' ' The teachers for the Nashville sch.x)Is Willis A. Scidmore, Hastings, 41, and Jennie L. Priceler, Hastings. 41. year, so far as they have been c"gage ■ ... as follows: Superintendent C.H. ’• Clarence E. Davis, Hastings, 27, and principal G.N. Fuller: science Jeacher NW Winnie M. Fountain, Hastings. 25. Oliver P. Wellman. Castleton, 66, and Cirace Crooks; languages. Mtss Nevins, succeeding Miss Catohne Jenks, ™h Cynthia A. Green. Woodland. 50. and sixth grades. Miss Flora Boston. Alvin B. Clever, Nashville, 28, and Rose Donough, Buller. Ohio. 28. Royal Burr Meyers. Castleton, 25, and Gail Muy I lamp. Castleton. 28. seco^’^ades" Mi's Martin W. Poland. Middleville, 27. and primary-. Miss Edna Brumbaugh, succeeding Vera M. Grosfend, Middleville. 22. Miss Florence Grohe. �Fraud probe delays unemployment checks Hriilne Michigan s frntKi investigalion into unem­ ployment benefit |, re4oivd payments to •11 percent of th0 ' Ic initially affected . und it's turned up .1(,' , new polcll. Hal cases. I hat leaves nt । )()o,(XX) accounts going npa,d while ,hJ ‘ ",e-. Unemployment Elaine Gariock Services resumed at First C'ongreganona church Sunday with some visitors tn>m ot er churches whose services had not yet resutn lire service included installation ot teers. Retired pastor Mark Jarvic and his wife an< grandchildren were visitors. Sunday, thc antique stores were °Pen the first time in months. A local restaurant at patrons at tables. In weeks past, their UMness has been totally take-out mcah. lhe library shades arc up in preparation for being open. The new schedule will hasc hours Tuesday through Friday but not Saturday. For weeks, the street was empty most of the time, but cars have been parked along streets in recent days. Thc ice cream shop which was new in summer 2019 now sells its goodies from a side window around lhe comer, and the entry is graced with urns of Powers. Likewise. Meyers Bakery has window service. Seasonal flowers are beautiful. Beauty bushes havc held their petals longer than usual, despite the heavy rain last week. Likewise, a similar bush w irh pink petals at the Beardslec ' Dnmond house has been as lovely as usual. Thc Werner home on lhe boulevard has had a showy iris bed abloom. Last week’s Reminder had some astonishing figures about thc Lions Club barbecue. Imagine selling more than 900 dinners. That partially explains the very long line of cars along M-50 vsurance Agency continues to seek accounts • t may have been set up with stolen identi•XhS p:,ndcmic-,,a,e waiting for their turn. In other years, a good percentage would have been eat-in customers so their cars would have been in the lot between the bowling alley and the pavilion. This year all had to approach via Jordan Lake Avenue and exit by way of Virginia Street. The Lions Club funds many projects in lhe villages, so this should be a boost for them. Will there be a chicken barbecue at Woodland this year Labor Day weekend? A rare kiwi vine in lhe north end of town which is more than 45 years old has a surprising history. It was several years old before it bore its first fruit. Then eight years ago, the supporting trellis collapsed and fell into the neighbor’s lawn where it provided a beautiful green screen. Nobody but lhe birds had ever seen lhe top of the vine w ith all its free-waving fronds. It had to be severely pruned in order to lift it upright with lhe help of a chain, four ropes and a heavy-duty vehicle with some people-muscle, too. It had a late start in showing a few green leaves but they came slowly. Eight years have gone by with not a sign of a blossom to indicate hope of fruiting. Last week some signs of blossoms appeared. Apparently with a kiwi vine, one needs patience lo see results. In past years the vines easily could grow 15 to 25 feet. They used to intertwine with branches of a pine tree and grow several feet into the tree. 142613 Position Opening j| clerical duties. Position requirements include at least a high school | 1 | d H -Please send-a coyer letter, and resume to: Tim Vandermark, R Director, Barry County Equalization, 220 West State Street Hastings^ 9 Ml 49058. An application and job description is available at www, I barrycounty.org. or by contacting Tim Vandermark, 517-543-4101, tvandermark@barrycounty.org I Deadline for applications: Monday, June 29 by 5 p.m. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEABSNC ON PROPOSE® 2020-2021 M0ET PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on Monday, June 29,2020 at 6:45 p.m. in the Commons Area of Hastings Middle School, 232 West Grand Street, Hastings, Michigan, die Board of Education of the Hastings Area School System will hold £ a public hearing to consider the systems proposed 2020-2021 budget. I The Board of Education may not adopt its proposed 2020-2021 budget until after the public hearing. A copy of the proposed 2020-2021 budget, including the proposed property tax millage rate, is available for public inspection during ! normal business hours at 232 West Grand Street, Hastings, Michigan. The property tax millage rate, proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget, will be a subject of the hearing.1 SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Online services are ready for business I The Barry County Equalization Department is now accepting F applications for a part-time Equalization Data Entry Clerk. The | Clerk will assist the department with Entering sales data entry and 0 diploma, one year of experience with data processing and some knowledge of property descriptions and the property tax system, and must be an accurate typist with high typing proficiency. The base pay rate is $13.95. Of,hc 'fzen accounts sought jobless ttn . r ? ""dcr the fcdcral >‘“"‘lcmic ^'“P’wyment Assistance, which allows I ■ 1-time, contract and “X'g” workers to seek - w^h H.,7 'nt,Ul,innaS6°° Wcckly bcnefi* Illi little or n„ (|l;.umcntation. recent'wed “ h"!’<! sPike PUA el.ai,ns in _ eeks. many of which w-e believe are potentudly framing, - said Jason Moon, sixikesmanfnrthe^;’ lhe UIA has received more than 40,0(X) men!5 i*?1? pCol>,e rvfX)rling unen’P»oy. v? d. 1IU bccn rnudc ,n thcir namcs smec May 1, an of 10<(KK) tr()fn (hc Porous s.xi weeks combined. •1 ctnt r ? r1"8 to lhc Michigan State Police. ‘ ‘ c. forcc involving so far has: mirnted hundreds of active investigations , .• sPcctcd fraud from individuals based in Michigan to around the world. •Issued hundreds of subpoenas to financial institutions. • Communicated daily with financial insti­ tutions to monitor for potential criminal activ1 } and prevent payments to criminals. Vontla Vnn Til Public Affairs Specialist During this time when our physical offices are closed to the public, you may wonder. How can I get help from Social Security without visiting an office?” You can find the answer at ssa.gov/ onlineservices, which links you to some of our most popular online services. You may apply for retirement and disability benefits, appeal a decision, and more. Our newest My Social Security feature. Advance Designation, enables you to identify up to three people, in priority order, who you would like to serve as your potential representative payv^ tn the event you ever need help managing-your benefits. We have updated our Frequently Asked Questions at faq.ssa.gov/en-us Topic•’article/KA-10039 to answer questions you may have about Advance Designation. You also may apply for Medicare online in less than 10 minutes with no forms to sign and often no required documentation. We’ll process your application and contact you if we need more information. Visit ssa.gov/benefits/medicare to apply for Medicare and find other important information. If you’re eligible for Medicare at age 65, your initial enrollment period begins three months before your 65th birthday and ends three months after that birthday. We’ve organized our Online Services webpage into four popular categories for easy navigation: • Review your information. You may access your secure, personal information and earnings history to make sure everything is correct. You may even print statements with ease. • Apply for benefits. You may apply for retirement, disability and Medicare benefits without having to visit a field office. • Manage your account. You may change your direct deposit information and your address online. Ihis notice is given by order of the Board of Education. LEGAL NOTICES Jennifer Eastman Secretary, Hoard of Education s MffiEO TO FLiOBE NOTICE STATE OF MICHIGAN BARRY COUNTY T^AL COURT - family division PUBLICATION AND NOTICE OF PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that there will be a meeting of thc Board of Education of Hastings Area School System, Barry and Calhoun Counties, Michigan. At .said meeting, lhe Board of Education will consider for approval its proposed Stale Aid Note (Limited Tax-General Obligation). ’lhe proposed State Aid Note (Limited Tax-General Obligation), if issued, will contain the limited tax full faith and credit pledge of Hastings Area School System, Barry & Calhoun Counties. DATE OF MEE TING; June 29, 2020 PLACE OF MEETING: Hastings Middle School HOUR OF MEETING: 7:00 o’clock, p.m. TELEPHONE NUMBER OF PRINCIPAL OFFICE OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION: BOARD MINUTES ARE LOCATED AT THE PRINCIPAL OFFICE OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION: ann^aT^r&w annualOF.IHE REVIEWOFlpERF0S“AN<?.lEECOnD EHlENp.OEJi)EC01'fiT Under Mchigan law ihc cWlFam,!y Jur 90 a.nnu;,lly reviews the pertomtancurcco^ ol the F"eiH1 01 th0 Court Tlia review w-'l hn rondiiP1 on or about -My 1.2020 Th,s review"', wuedoy “,h0 ,o!lowing entfiria* •Whether tha FnPnrt A. lhA Court is guilty of misconduct, negi^,0' duty^or taluro l0 rarry out Ute v^1 »' ol tne court relat.vo to a vitatutory duty, 269-948 4400 ■ ,he ol too ^end °’ C0U" AC,S •>aro being met; • Whether the dubn. . , „ th9 Court Q,u being carried out ,“nncr IM' 'a"9C,S lh° n80ds Hastings Middle School 232 \V. Grand Street, 1 tastings, Michigan . VI. been nagged lor suspicions of fraud. Jell Donofrio, director of thc Department ,IH*e officials said. No payments have been of Lalxjr and Economic Opportunity, which . more than 200XXX) new accounts. oversees (JIA, said on June 5 that lhe state hud Xht°nowmu't als.> pn,vide the addi.iona! issued “stop payment'’ notices on 340,(XX) active accounts, freezing payments on all of “Xv enforcement is working with UIA as it them. u,„ data analytics and direct ou reach o About 2.2 million Michigan residents have ■•identify legitimate claimants and release filed for jobless benefits since March 15. benefiis as quickly as possible,' aceordmg to The move to stop payments and launch the investigation came after national concerns <Moon<said he could not release additional grew over unemployment fraud, with several detain on the nature of the potenbal fraud or other states also starting their own investiga­ from the investigation. tions. The U.S. Secret Service issued a nation­ results However, he added, the next steps could al alert in May wanting about unemployment involve prosecution of fraudulent accounts. fraud by an international crime ring, and the ••We are ... bringing in a third-party foren­ U.S. Dept, of Labor has estimated more than sic accounting firm to assist tn identifying $26 billion may be paid in fraudulent unem­ fraudulent activity that can be quickly turned ployment benefits. over to law enforcement for prosecution, he Michigan residents who’d had their . . accounts flagged for potential fraud expressed said. The state is asking anyone who suspects frustration with a system that, since mid­ identity fraud with an unemployment claim to March and the statewide stay-at-home order, had been overwhelmed with applicants and contact the UIA. “The rise in identity theft reports, coupled plagued by slow responses. with suspected fraud in new unemployment They worried that lhe stop-payment orders claims, shows that criminals are stdl attempt­ would result in payment delays as each was ing to illegally obtain thc benefits. It s asked to provide documents to verify their identities. The slate, meanwhile, said that it cxtremelv upsetting that thc actions of these was deploying 600 UIA workers to start the fraudsters have delayed payments meant for verification process, with another 200 to be our working families,” said UIA Director added. Steve Gray. “While we continue to work with our state “Over the last week, the UIA was able to validate more than 140,000 legitimate and federal partners lo stop this unlawful accounts, with benefits resuming within activity, our focus remains on doing every­ days, according to a news release issued by thing we can to quickly validate authentic claims and get our workers the emergency lhe department last Friday. Yet many of Michigan’s new claims filed financial assistance they need.” 01 mo community Members of lhe nUhi , submitwf,tt?n aments the Chief Fam-b ? may -’jVng 10 cr,,ona Jennifer Eastman Secretary, Hoard of Education ?06V/ Co'^ ^oo-jB • Find help and answers. We’ve answered your most frequently asked questions, and provided links to publications and other informational websites. Let your family and friends know they can do much of their business with us online at ssa.gov. Vonda Van Til is the public affairs ■ specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids Ml 49525 or via ‘ email to vonda.vantil®ssa.gov. LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING FILE NO. 20-20531 -NC In the matter of Chelsea Ann Beede. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS including: whose address(es) is/aro unknown and whose interest In the matter may be barred or affected by the following: TAKE NOTICE: A hearing will bo held on July 1, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. at 206 VJ. Court Street. Suite 302 Hastings. Ml 49058 before Judge William M. Doherty P41960 for the following purpose: Name change for Chelsea Ann Beede to be changed to Chelsea Ann Johnson. Chelsea Ann Beede 3260 North M-43 Highway Hastings. Ml 49058 (269)331-1134 142234 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961.1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on July 23,2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser lo free and clear ownership of the property'. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagors): Nathan Carpenter Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/ or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Caliber Home Loans. Inc. Date of Mortgage: July 12. 2019 Dale of Mortgage Recording: September 3,2019 Amount claimed due on date of notice: S113,868.72 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Carlton, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Commencing 12 rods West of the Northeast corner of Section 21. Town 4 North, Range 8 West: thence South 13 3/4 rods: thence West 8 rods; thence North 13 3/4 rods, thence East 8 rods to the place of beginning Common street address (if any): 1884 E M 43 Hwy, Freeport, Ml 49325-9414 The redemption period shall bo 6 months from thc date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600,3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600 3240(16). If the property Is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will bo held responsible to tho person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact tne attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at tho telephone number stated in this notice This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice; June 18, 2020 Trott Law. P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1416/60 I06-18R07-09) 142752 SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Regular Meeting Juno 10, 2020 Supervisor Stonebumer called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. Present; Clerk Goebel, Treasurer Pence, Supervisor Stonebumer. Trustee VanNiman & Trustee Borden Agenda and May 13.2020 Minutes were approved. Public comments, if any, were received. Fire, Police and Parks Department reports were placed on file. Supervisor, Treasurer, Trustees and Clerk’s Report’s were received. Approved paying bills: $58,137.24 Approved return to duty Firefighters Public comments and Board comments were received. Meeting adjourned at 7:50 p.m. Submitted by: Rod Goebel, Clerk 142746 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF KENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate FILE NO. 19-28241-DE Estate of Joan J. Timmerman. Date of birth: 06/04/1932. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Joan J. Timmerman, died 01/14/2019. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Wiley M. Timmerman, personal representative, or to both the probata court at 180 Ottawa Avenue NW, Grand Rapids. Michigan 49503 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 06/11/2020 James A. Wesseling P40226 6439 - 28th Avenue Hudsonville, Michigan 49426 (616) 669-8185 Wiley M. Mimmerman 6991 Duncan Lake Road Middleville, Michigan 49333 (616)891-8200 142617 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate FILE NO. 20-28508-DE Estate of Donna M. Haun, Date of birth* 12/2/1 P’xn TO ALL CREDITORS: ‘ NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Donna M Haun, died 2/1&/2020. Creditors o! the decedent are not.fied that all claims agarnst the estate will be forever barred unless presented Lem >hii° representahve. or to a'206 ,w-Cou" Ml 49058 and the persona! rcpresentat.ve wrthin 4 DaT6SX^aM<,O'PUb!,CatOn°,W3TO!i«- James J. Gouioozo P44497 PO Box 542 Hastings, Ml 49058 269-945-2255 Valarie Bamum-Yurger 800 East Sisson Rd. Freeport, Ml 49325 616-293-4224 142616 �f| 2 ^™m,c cancellations hit community organizations fundraisers or they’re doing their best to save money. “h’s causing all of us to be a little more creative;* Barry Community Foundation Director Bonnie Gettys said. Thc primary fundraiser for lhe local Elks Events being canwlcd't" COVID-19 mean fewer do i gainst oigamzations. 1 "ara tor charitable Many nonprofits .......... >_.. ,O°k,n8 « alternative “If we waial l°gOple to pay°aHenfiA Oi.n9, we want t0 s,aV °PenI encourage Pe . g X attention to what they need to do.” Community Foundation Director Irodpc is during *E|L?1Kr^c*sl’ w^lch was canceled last " yjelissa ”nd Summerfest organize Mud the beverage lent rais^ -5.000 and $I0XXX) each year. vf Those funds helped ‘ ^club's basic operations, in addih°n s like the annu­ al Easter egg hunt and immunity outreach Universe Not older than Dr. Universe: What crvatnrv has ih.e,t „„ longest and ix ,„ll alive , e Trade, 12, Singapore Dear Tracie. k'ndS °f-crcaturcs ">a‘ lived on long ago st, 11 have relatives living r^rt “boul 'hem from fossil TmH • h,C^ arc ,mprims or remains that wc find in rock. Horseshoe crabs, velvet worms and sea sponges have been found in fossils that are hundreds of millions of years old. We know that creatures such as jellyfish, lampreys and sea urchins, have been around about that long, too. Fossil records can provide us with clues about bones, plants, shells and even bacteria. While these living things have been around a long time, one organism has out­ lasted pretty much all others. It is so small you would likely need a microscope to see it: cyanobacteria. While you are made up of billions of cells, a cyanobacterium is one liny cell. Just like some other types of bacteria, cyano­ bacteria can come in different shapes and sizes, including spirals, spheres and rods. We can find them living on rocks, in soil, lakes, ponds and the ocean. They can live in hot springs and even the chilly tempera­ tures of Antarctica. If you've ever seen the surface of a pond or lake covered in bright green slime, there’s a chance you might have seen a big colony of cyanobacteria. 1 learned about these long-lived bacteria from my friend Michael Berger. He teaches marine biology at Washington State University. Berger studies barnacles, which have been on lhe planet for about 500 million years. He told me that cyanobacteria have been around even longer than barnacles cyanobacteria have. One of the oldest fossil records of cya­ nobacteria was found in Australia. It was nearly 2.7 billion years old. For a bit of perspective, that was way before dinosaurs roamed the earth between 230 and 65 mil­ lion years ago. Even though cyanobacteria are tiny, they have a really important job. You may have heard that plants go through some­ thing called photosynthesis. Cyanobacteria do this, too. They take carbon dioxide dissolved in water, use sunlight as energy to turn that carbon dioxide into sugars and then use those sugars as their food. In thc process, they give off oxygen. Cyanobacteria were one of the first bac­ teria lo produce oxygen in Earth’s atmo­ sphere — and they have been doing so ever since. That's good news for all of us ani­ mals that need oxygen. Berger reminded me that our answer to your question about the history of life on Earth can change as we discover new things. We may not have all the answers to your question just yet, but wc can rely on clues from the past to help us understand our world. Who knows, maybe one day you can make a career out of looking for fossils and telling us about them. Or maybe you’ll defend species that live on our planet right now so we can help protect their futures. Dr. Universe Know a kid with a science question? Send an email to Washington State University 's resident scientist and writer at Dr.Univcrsedrwsu.edu or visit her web­ site. askdruniverse.com. With help from my friends at Washington State University, we're investigating tough and smart ques­ tions from curious kids around the world. Financial FOODS Provided hy lhe Barry County offices of Edward Jones Member SIPC Brandon Wilkins 307 E. Green St, Ste. 1 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-2003 Jeff Domenico, AAMS® 450 Meadow Run Dr. Suite 100 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-8265 Can you invest for retirement and education? Typically, this time of year is filled with graduation ceremonies and celebrations. But with the coronavirus pandemic, not much has been typical lately. Eventually, though, things will return to normal and schools will reopen for in-person learning. And if you have voung children, you may want to save for their higher education, whether that be college or trade school. At the .same time, though, you’re moving ever closer to retirement, ('an you save for your kids’ education and a comfortable retirement for yourself at thc same time? Ji is indeed possible, although you may need to prioritize somewhat Specifically, you uiny not want to put oft living for retirement m favor (d education. Bui viewing these goals !o;".ih'r »n‘ investing ns early a > povobli* in each of them, you < an Mh advantage of ran biggest a.-Ad* !«'»• Of cour.r, yo’i'H to budget your L* • want to invM • you can. hut not -o > your rimnihl. - • h crimped. < on:' T1'1 may have I” ‘ ‘‘,'1 later, June 18. 2Q20 - Pag<J 9 1710 HaRt,n«8 Bnnnef ~ g yuMf your child’s education, or a combination of the two. But in terms of logistics, you can make saving and investing easier. First, consider your accounts. If retirement you have a traditional 40 l(k) or similar plan, your contributions come out of your paycheck before you even see the money - so it’s about as painless a way of building your retirement fund as possible. Put in as much as your budget allows consider increasing and your contributions when you receive a raise at work. You can also direct your bank to move money each month from your savings or checking account into your IRA. Now, let’s move to your other key goal: education. Several education funding vehicles are available, but one of the most popular is ih« 529 plan- Y°ur eaniinl?s iu<iw tax-deferred ami ^Hvlraual.. arc bee from lax. provided nit j. ii Ail for qualified jijofU-y t dm .ilioH expenses. liij'ln / r. .o plan withdrawals not „ . j .poddiol expense. ,(n< (.n and a 10% I, od the earnings.) Furthermore, your 529 plan contributions may cam a state tax deduction or credit if you participate in your own state's plan. You can set up recurring contributions from a bank account to a 529 plan. And you don’t have to fund your 529 plan on your own. Instead of gifts for birthdays, holidays, graduations and other occasions, why not ask friends and relatives to contribute to the 529 plan you’ve set up for your child? They’re all eligible to participate - and their contributions may earn them tax benefits if they live in your state and you’ve invested in your own state’s plans. A financial advisor can help you plan for more than one goal, understand the benefits and tradeoffs of your decisions, and make the process of saving for those goals easier. So, gel the help you need to slay on track - or rather, two tracks - toward lhe important objectives of education and retirement. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Einancial Advisor. Edward Jones, SIPC Member dub’s second ^^draiser. Cabin Fever Reliever, was cjn . th,s spring. That event raised money l°r ‘ Berans, and for the Elks National FundStroh is working 1 beverage tent at a different location* • aid it tnay yel canceled if lhe state s nctions |a|Cr t|qs summer continue to feStr,C *}’ “Il would greatly iinPuc Jhc lodge locally, we would really have to svrnjnble to come up with alternative fundraising. Stroh said. "Our fundraising activi ics have to be on hold for now.” Hastings Rotary Club President Greg Randall said. The club had plans tor an event to celebrate its centennial this year, but those plans had to be canceled for a virtual event. "It’s been challenging* to say the least, but there have been some opportunities in there that we’ve really appreciated.” Randall said. Thc president of Rotary International con­ gratulated the club during a virtual visit, and more local leaders have been highlighted as guest speakers, he saidITie club also is shifting gears from fund­ raising lo service opportunities to support the community. "Financially we’re in a position where we can do that. We can miss a season of fundraising and that's OK," Randall said. The Thornapple Arts Council’s biggest fundraiser is an auction in November, but Executive Director Megan Lavell said the council will be unable to hold an in-person event this year. "We’ve had to fly by the seat of our pants and figure this out, day by day.” Lavell said. Beyond questions of health. I,avel| said thc council leadership didn't think it would be appropriate to cancel many of its events, but still ask for money. The council already received sponsorships for events it has had to cancel this year, but sponsors told the council to keep its money. "We have such a generous community that all of our sponsors have said just save it for next year,” Lavell said. While, Gettys said she Jias not.seen many organizations in deep trouble now - they may get there as time goes on. Funding is cyclical in a small community, she said. When businesses are hurting, lhe organizations they typically support will feel that hurt down lhe road. "How respectful would it be lo ask for con­ tributions when they’re suffering?” Gettys said. Some businesses and event organizers also worry about what liabilities they could face if they host an event and. later, an attendee claimed they caught COVID-19 al the event. "I think it's one more hurdle that businesses have to jump.” Barry County Economic Development Alliance and Chamber of Commerce Director Jennifer Heinzman said. The Michigan Chamber of Commerce told Heinzman that liability should not be a prima­ ry concern, since it would be difficult for someone to prove where they cau«’ht COV1D19. Even so, "everybody’s been talking about it.” state Sen. John Bizon’s Chief of Staff Jake Jelsema said. Some businesses are asking their visitors to sign waivers lo absolve them of any liability related to COVID-19. Jelsema said lhe federal government is expected to pass a COVID-19 package next month to address the liability jssuc anj pro_ lect against frivolous lawsuits. The state Legislature would likely pass its own legislation based on that package, he said. Heinzman said a larger concern is that an infected person could go to an event and cre­ ate a CO VID-19 “supercell” by spreading it to multiple people, who then would spread it throughout the county. Gettys said she. too, is worried about a resurgence of COVID-19. If people don’t practice social distancing and wear masks in public, the state could wind up being shut down again. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Fann I or Sale Husitiess Services HAY FOR SALE- 1st cut $4.00/balc, 2nd cut $5.00/ bale. Call Delton 269-569-3900 or 269-569-3800. CARRON SPORT AIR I Jockey Table. $300.00 OBO. Phone 269-908-1654. MAIT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real eslitf athenivng in thl* new »ruper is subjert l.» the Fair Housing Ad nnd the Michigan Cnil Rights Ad which cvllectnely nsakc it ,l(Cp| to advertise “any preference, limitation nr discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex. handicap, familial status, nations) origin, aye or martial suttn. or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.** 1 amilial ctatut includes children under the age of 18 living with parents er legal custodians, pregnant women and peop'e securing custody cf children under IX. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the taw. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To repnt discriminabon call the Fair Housing Center at 616 451-2984) The HUD toll free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. KASSON 10FT OAK Pool Table, excellent condition. $1,000.00 or OBO. 269-908­ 1654 Garage Sale SALE- FRL, JUNE 19th, 2020, 8am-6pm, 212 W. North St., Hastings. Womens clothes, boys clothes (S-M), & home goods and toys! GARAGE SALE- Thurs & Fri., June 18th & 19th, 2020, 8am-5pm. 3499 W. Clover­ dale Rd., Delton. Jeep parts, leadership materials, leather coats, and more! BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, nome improvements, power washing. 269-320-3890. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Wdl buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. Three Hastings Area School board seats to be voted on Nov. 3, 2020. The Hastings Area School System Board of Education will have three board seats to be voted upon at the school election on Tuesday, Nov. 3. 2020. There are three six-year terms of office to be filled for Jan.' 1, ^O^^WSiigfi'/pec. 31, 2027/’Efeaffqff|'13t; Hastings Area Schools are coordinated under the direction of Pamela Palmer, Barry County Clerk. Therefore, petitions, affidavits of identity and any additional information are available from the County Clerk’s office at 220 W. State St., Hastings. The last date for filing nominating petitions for board candidates is Tuesday, July 21, 2020, by 4 p.m. If you have candidate questions, call the County Clerk’s office at (269) 945-1285 or call the school directly at (269) 948-4400. Information on the role of the school board and school governance may be picked up at the Superintendent ’s Office. HOPE TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF HOPE TOWN­ SHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Hope Township Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a meeting and public hearing on Thursday, July 9,2020 at 6:30 p.m. in the Hope Township Hall, 5463 South M-43, Hastings, Michigan 49058 within the Township, to consider the following variance request: Daniel and Pamela Diamond wish to construct a 10’ x 36’ deck attached to an existing single-family dwelling within the required front setback area on parcel (07-021-012-00) located at 4440 S Shore Drive, Delton, MI 49046. The Zoning Or- , dinance requires that buildings and structures be set back 50 from thc front (lakefront) lot line on lakefront lots in thc RL, Residential Lake zoning district and permits decks to project eight feet into a required yard. Thc existing dwelling is cur­ rently located approximately 41’ from the lake, which would place the deck 31 ’ from the lakeshore; thus, a variance of 11 is Fol I o w The Hastings Banner on Facebook to/ keep up to date until the new edition is printed! ”If we want to keep the economy going, we want lo slay open,” she said. “I encourage people to pay attention lo what they need Io do.” If organizations need help, Gettys said they should call the Barry Community Foundation. The foundation is looking at ways to offer grants geared toward operational costs to help struggling organizations pay their bills. If a non-profit missed out on fundraising opportunities, and could provide data to show how much it Jost, the BCF can help find pos­ sible ways to recoup those losses, she said. Some loan opportunities to help small busi­ nesses get through the pandemic also arc available to non-profits. requested. . i- -md the pumic 1 . 1,^..-.. 49058.redunng regular Jbus.n^hours The Zonine Ordinance are available for Hone Township Zoning is bc « Ordinance wived at ,he also accessible at www. wpe . busjness hours until the time ofthc hearing. HopeTownshtpHall dunngJuly P. 2O2o. Those interested Regular business tours tvsun c . comment before July r should make in reviewing the app ij. C| .tk bv telephone at the number provided an appointment with the Townsnip viu* u, H below. . • , n nrnvkle necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services to Hope Township w P hearing upon five (5) days’ prior notice to the individuals w th disabilities at tne ncannb i T«„Mp Ctok .. “”b“ '“J HOPE township zoning board of appeals Hope Township Hall 5463 South M-43 Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269)948-2464 �Page 10 — Thursday. June IB. 2020 - The Hastings Banner Pending auto insurance law changes keeping agents busy - __ _ IM most sweeping. nonsuit law will go. loin effect JubLl Greg Chandler Staff Writct . .• With the biggest change* in Michipt”is auto insurance laws in nearly a haU-ecmt ry about to take effect, local insurance agen s < spending a great deal of time educating <■ Kt on w hat those changes mean. "That's all I’ve been doing" s;"d J:L'," Parks, who owns a Farm Bureau Insur.i c agency in Middleville. Parks started calling clients in Match to set up appointments to discuss insurance rctonn measures that were approved > k legislature last year and signed into law by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. He’s been averaging 25 to 30 appointments a week. "We’ve been proactive in calling all ot our clients and doing either a meeting via Zoom or here nt the office,” Parks said. The most sweeping changes to the slate s no-fault law since it was enacted m 1973 go into effect July 1. . . Most notably, it gives diners a choice m how much Phon'd Avenue they want, hi exchange. mo>t driv­ ers in th* K,alc £Cl a ,)rva^ on l,lc’r imee premiums, which have historically been among the highest in the nation. ‘ This is the biggest thing I’ve seen in ?5 vears,” said Troy Dalman. who owns a fanners Insurance agency in Hastings. •We’ve probably gone through about a sixth of our book (of clients). We’re going^o be doing (policy updates) lor thc next five months.” Under lhe new plan, drivers can now pick from live levels of PIP coverage, including maintaining their present unlimited coverage. Other options include coverage levels of up to $50.(XX). $25OJXX) and $50(),(XX). A complete opt-out option is available, but that’s only for drivers who have separate health insurance that covers collision injuries. Drivers seeking to change their coverage will need to fill out and sign a six-page form that explains the options for each level of coverage. “The new law lowers costs for Michigan drivers, maintains the highest coverage options in the country, and strengthens con­ sumer protections.” said I-alira Hall, spokes­ woman for the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services. ‘‘For the first time, drivers will be able to choose a coverage level ann1Unri-’lc for their needs and COVi dpot •'’ aPPnX budget. - ’ r; The old insurance system had proven unafinrdn‘b|elot many Michigan driv. 1,11,1 ^id.rfsmgpg in some pcopk‘ dccid‘ 12310734 JJalman said about 90 Pcreent of the ^’nts he s seen are choodh* to keep their unlimited coverage, whi|C| f()f pnrks. about two thirds his clients are sending P;11 on their cover“I think pcop|e art a ,,u,c scared to °Pl out ot the unlimited Coverage ” Dalman said. “I gcl >1. It’s unliu mv other coverage in the country.” Jhe other key change in the law, parks noted, involves drivers who choose not to maintain unlimi|C.i PIP coverage and arc Win a crash 1 get injllred and 1 have no medical icoveragej and that [other driver) is al fault, 1 can sue them to „ ( nly medical bills taken “;^kssar 1. al-lault driver could be liable for any medical costs beyond the injured person’s coverage level. * 1 he mform measure also requires insurance companies to |0Wcr r4lcs for PIP coverage, based on level of coverage selected. Those who choose to maintain unlimited coverage will receive an average rollback of 10 percent on tl . . h on their premiums. Those who choose a $5(X),(XX) coverage limit will see an average 20 percent rollback, drivers who opt for thc $250,000 coverage limit will sec an average rollback of 35 percent, and those who choose lhe $50,000 plan will experience an average rollback of 45 percent. 71io.se rollbacks will remain in place for eight years. So. should drivers consider reduced PIP coverage? It all depends on what they have for their health insurance and their coordination of coverage.” Parks said. Dalman urged drivers who are thinking alxjut changing their PIP coverage to com­ pletely review their health insurance policies before making a change. If you checked it a year ago, you need to check again.” he said. Hall agreed. “We encourage drivers to review the PIP form, understand the risks and benefits explained in the form, and talk to their agent or insurance company to determine the cor­ rect level of coverage for them,” she said. Another area where drivers will experience sayings is a reduction of the fee paid into the Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association, die organization that was created to provide unlimited lifetime coverage for medical expenses resulting from accidents. The MCCA currently reimburses insurance comMCCA when an ;„; lirpd person's oerson s medical names mjured cxXnscs exceed S58OJXX). Under the reform measure, the Re charged . th • MCCA for each vehicle in thc stale is teiig reduced from $220 to $100 annually. it Will he assessed only to dnvers who elect to maintain unlimited PIP coverage. In n rn only drivers who choose to keep unlimHed coverage will be able to benefit front the The Department of Insurance and Financial Services will host several virtual statewide ‘town hall meetings over lhe next few days to exolain the key changes in the auto insurance law and how they'll affect drivers. Meetings are scheduled for today at 1:30 p.m.. next Tuesday at 12:30 pan. and next Wednesday at 12:30 p.m. The link to those meetings n at nrichigan.gov/autoinsurance. So far. more than 2/XX) people around the state have attended DIFS’ virtual meetings. Hall said. In addition, DIFS has a dedicated no-fault hotline where drivers can have their questions answered regarding changes in the law. The hotline, 833-ASK-DIFS 1275-3437], is avail­ able 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, or via email autoinsurance^miclrigan.gov. Lake Odessa makes a pitch for COVID-19 funding - and gets it Savanah Kaechclc Contributing Writer In thc midst of economic concerns caused by C0VID-I9 precautions came an opportu­ nity for financial assistance for downtown businesses - and the village of Lake Odessa went for it. Facing a tight deadline, members of lhe Downtown Development Authority had their work cut out for them. “We had to turn this thing around in eight days - and it really was all hands on deck.” Village Council President Karen Banks said Monday at the village council meeting. “The DDA members pulled together and worked our tails off to gel lhe word out and make sure that every business was contacted. “Kudos to Patrick (Village Manager Patrick Reagan) because he actually wrote the grant application, and it takes somebody that’s a wordsmith, with the right verbiage, lo know the right things lo say, and 1 think he knocked it out of lhe park.” The Match on Main grant program offered to downtown businesses and downtown development authorities by the Michigan Economic Development Corp, was originally intended for projects, such as infrastructure improvements, Reagan said. But. with COVID-19, the grant was extended lo allow for mortgages or payments, payroll or similar expenses. 7 he DD/\ gol lOgether and decided they wanted to go for this grant, and the DDA sent out letters with worksheets per lhe MEDC’s rules to the 57 DDA district businesses,” Reagan said. Of those 57 businesses, 10 sent in applica­ tions and eight were selected for the grant. We were hoping for a little bit more of a response, but wc needed to help our small businesses and keep our downtown alive and. when the Stale of Michigan said (it had] a program that can help, we said we want to take advantage of that program to help our small businesses in our great downtown here,” Reagan said. I he minimum grant available to individual downtown businesses was $2,000, and the maximum grant was $10,000. Lake Odessa received a total of $50,000 for eight business­ es. “Eight businesses in our downtown here will be splitting - to some degree that’s been determined by their worksheet and their need - $50,000,” Reagan added. The eight businesses that will receive fund­ ing include: 4th Avenue Sweets, receiving $5,000; The Consignment Shop LLC, $3,000; Delectable Delights. $5,000; Friends Quilting Basket, $8,000; The Hairport, $7,000; The Main Floor, $8,000; Tabby’s Chop Shop, $7XXX); and Tan II Up. $7,000. 7\venty-iwo communities were chosen to receive Match on Main funds. Reagan noted that Lake Odessa was the second smallest community to receive funds, with Calumet being the smallest. Ypsilanti, Traverse City and Grayling were among the recipients, Reagan said, and sever­ al were similar in size to those cities. “Wc are looking to save 24 jobs in the downtown, so we figured that it was best to get some [funding].” Reagan said. “So. we are very pleased to be able lo help out the down­ town.” I Delton Kellogg Schools avoid major cuts, for nowi Taylor Owens Staff Writer A new budget for Delton Kellogg Schools makes few cuts, but drops the fund balance dcrwtf nyabout7! peftBtit.•' 1 ^^XVedidd’t Want To come up with a lonW cuts to increase the fund balance, we’re trying to keep it low and just keep us in lhe posi­ tive.” Superintendent Kyle Corlctt said. “I would rather cat up our fund balance than lay people off.” The district started the 2019-2020 fiscal year with a $12,538,697 budget, and a fund balance of $877,797, representing 7.16 per­ cent of lhe total. But, because of the state’s financial crisis, for thc fiscal year ending June 30, lhe budget was cut lo $11,729,999, with a fund balance of $228.431, or 1.85 percent. The projected budget for next year is $11.979345. with a fund balance of $131,837. or 1.09 percent by June 30, 2021. Bui those numbers will change as the budget is amend­ ed throughout the year. Finance Director Andrew Nurenbcrg told lhe school board on Monday that he had based “I think we all hope there is some kind of an aid package, Wt’we ca'n'f assume.’* • -Jim McManus, Delton Kellogg Schools board member | t | | ------------- — ------ „—----------------- —— the budget on a worst-case scenario. Cuts to this year’s budget include busing to the math and science center of Battle Creek, after funding from Barn Intermediate School District was cut. and a reduction in parapro­ fessional hours. Two middle school teachers, and one paraprofessional who left this year will not be replaced. The district also will put all the money from its capital improvements savings into the general fund to keep next year’s fund balance in lhe black. “I’m thankful that we saved so much in our capital improvements accounts.” Corlett said. “We really built up our fund balance to be able to get us through this without having more severe cuts." He added that, if those teachers had not resigned. tll£h the tfA’.ricl may have had to Cut Jtaff. ' rir 'iF. - • 1 “This isn’t easy," Corlctt said "It’s never easy to think about cutting anything and the repercussions that has on students. But, ulti­ mately. we have to make lough decisions to keep the school operational - and lhe hope is that if we ever cut anything, once we're back to fund levels we're currently at. that we can bring all this back.” The district received $8,111 in per-pupil funding during the most recent school year, but that amount is expected to be cut by about $650 next fiscal year. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, school district officials were predicting an enroll­ ment increase of 15 students in the fall. But the projected budget for the 2020-2021 school year anticipates no change in enrollment, due lo uncertainties caused by the pandemic. Tlie district usually has 12 international students every year, but Corlett said that num­ ber may be lower this fall. As of Monday’s meeting, there were two potential internation­ al students. , A survey was sent home to families asking ^whether they' w'ould return to irFperson educa­ tion in the fall. Out of 3(X) responses, 20 said they did not want to do so until a vaccine or cure for COVID-19 is developed. “I don’t anticipate that we would sec a huge decline in enrollment," Corlctt said. “My biggest concern is, we did this several years ago and it put us in a hole we couldn’t get out of,” school board member Jim McManus said. “1 can’t go along with the assumption that we’re going to have a zero student drop. We need to plan for al least 20, because your fund balance is 20 kids. “I just don’t want to do what we did 10 years ago. We made that assumption that there was a zero line and it killed us.” Corlett said there are plans for other cuts to take place if funding receives more cuts or the enrollment drops. Some staff retirements are anticipated for next year, but have not been confirmed. If those staff members retire, the school will save money by not replacing them. If they do not retire, the district will need to lay off some staff members, Corlett said. McManus said some staff have contracts that require advance notice for layoffs. He said staff members who would be laid off if enrollment drops should be given that notice now. “We can’t wait for lhe count day.” McManus said. The board unanimously approved the bud­ get, although McManus said it was with the stipulation that a budget contingency for a 20-student drop in enrollment be considered. “On the plus side, this is like the worst-case scenario,” Corlett said. “There could be a bailout from the federal government.” “I think we all hope there is some kind of an aid package, but we can’t assume,” McManus said. “The second biggest thing that I would be wary of is a second round of the pandemic where everything gets shut down again, and we have another decrease in sales tax, where it overly impacts your school aid fund. It’s almost unrecoverable.” State’s emergency status continues, despite drop in COVID-19 cases Bridge Magazine Gov. Gretchen Whitmer plans to extend Michigan’s state of emergency, likely through at least July, despite a continued drop in new COVID-19 cases and deaths, she said Wednesday. The emergency status, which would other­ wise expire Saturday, allows Whitmer lo continue issuing and enforcing executive orders related to the pandemic. The governor has already relaxed some of her initial orders, lifting resident travel restric­ tions and allowing business across the state to reopen so long as they abide by new safety protocols. Whitmer issued an order last week that extended a moratorium on rental unit evic­ tions through June 30 and, on Monday, revised public health rules for nursing homes. “Being in this stale (of emergency] is what gives us the ability to continue to protect peo­ ple," Whitmer told reporters at a Wednesday morning press briefing. Eighteen additional CO VID-19 deaths were reported that day. This was an increase from Monday, when two new deaths were reported. Cases also increased slightly, from 74 new cases on Monday to 125 recorded on Tuesday. Despite this increase, a downward trend in average cases continues. The seven-day aver­ age of new’ cases today is 155, less than that Barry-Eaton District Data: Michigan continues to rise in national business rankings “All 50 stales are in some form or another of state of emergency because of that precise issue, and we’ll have to be as well.” leaders in Michigan’s Republican-led Legislature contend that Whitmer exceeded her authority by extending the slate of emer­ gency without their approval on April 30. They sued last month in an attempt to block the governor’s unilateral declarations. Court of Claims JuJge Cynthia Stephens ruled in Whitmer’s favor on May 21, but law­ makers are appealinc dccision’ Overall, there have been 60,189 cases and 5,790 deaths to date in the state as of Tuesday. Delton Kellogg sells house for $242,000 Taylor Owens Staff Writer The Delton Kellogg Boaid ol Education accepted a $242IXX) offer for its building trades house, which was $13,000 more than listed. The board received two other oflvrs that may have been slightly higher, but had more stipulations. Realtor Drew Chapple recom­ mended lhe $242.(XX) offer. “We would like to close as easily and as quickly as possible,” school board member Jim McManus said. In other business at Monday’s board meet­ of a week ago. when 197 cases were recorded on June 9. The statewide COVID-19 numbers contin­ ued a downward trend in daily death counts that, until recently, routinely were in triple digits. Numbers of new cases remained low as well, with Monday’s count as the lowest since at least March 25. ing: • Superintendent Kyle Corlett said he is trying to get the word out about lhe district’s non-homestrad millage renewal request, which will be on thc August primary ballot’ The millage pays for thc district’s basic oper­ ational costs, and will be taxed at 18 mills for five years. • l he board voted to remain a member of thc Michigan High School Athletic Association, and (he Michigan Association of Schoo! Boards for another year. • Corlctt said be plans to reach out to state legislators to ask them not to cut school lund- ing. “I would like to P»l together a letter for our state reprvsent llives. asking them to not sacrifice school funding to bail out other things." he said, -t think sometimes schools are overlooked i.lr the benefit of businesses . • but I think sch^is are pretty important for communities." „, . • The summer food progr'1"1 wl,‘bc lunded until at least Aun • •<’t>rIe«annOun^dl2«s",den,SaTi,?ned up for the district" inline summer school. " Spoils practices beg4'1 th!S Week apply social distancing guid<:l"’c‘>' Building on a record 19-point jump in Chief Executive magazine’s “Best and Worst States to Do Business” ranking, Michigan has been awarded a Silver Shovel Award for excellence in economic development and job creating projects by Area Development’s 15th Annual Gold and Silver Shovel Awards. Each year, the Shove! Awards recognize states that attract high-value investment proj­ ects that create a significant number of new jobs in their communities. Michigan received recognition in the 8-12 million population category on the strength of projects, including FCA’s historic $45 billion investment in Detroit and nearby in Macomb County, Ford Motor Company’s expansion at two of its key facilities and establishment of a new vehicle modification center in southeast Michigan. Acrisure’s relocation and expan­ sion of its headquarters to downtown Grand Rapids and KLA’s new research and develop­ ment center in Ann Arbor. "Despite lhe unprecedented events during the past few months, we continue to remain focused on enabling economic prosperity for all Michiganders while helping support growth opportunities to secure the long-term economic health of our state.” Mark A. Burton, CEO of MEDC, said. “This aware! is a recognition on a national level of the part­ nerships and opportunities Michigan offers for business expansion, job growth and future economic resiliency here in lhe state." The award is lhe 13th Michigan has won in Hie past 15 years, including the Gold Shovel award in 2011. With 13 total awards, Michigan is tied for fourth for lhe most shovels won in the Gold & Silver Shovel Awards’ history. Michigan came m at the No. 13 spot in the Chief Executive magazine survey, rising 19 spots from last year in the biggest single-year move in the ranking’s history . The magazine pointed to Michigan’s access to industrial and techmeal talent as a key ingredient to the state s success. MRhin’m wh>. “"‘Panies arc choosing , P.‘. .' ' *^it aiichiganbusiness.org.' hy-imchigan/. To learn more about the s^r vices available from the MEDC lo help busi­ nesses grow, go to michiganbusiness orc. ■MB �nlOff «< | The Hastings Banner--Thursday, June 18.2020Pag, ii °°ds baseball, SymetraJSolf returning to Battle Creek wtums just south of lhe^ 8^ Battle Greek. ---------- ° ,rD <. ounty )ine in Golf and baschan wi„ outdoor sports l0 , among lhc firs, Four announced thT, °?s- as lhc ,|S 20.0 women's gou " *’>H resume HteKeepcrs Casino Hotel r£°n-*i,h 'he Baltic Creek Country ClnK i '?n,P,0I''ihip at Battle C-reek Bontlx-tM,. ™ ^'); The a couple weeks of l>al|E1I,,, ’ " *i,nb W>H have The Bombers are S*' ,n b> '^n. Michigan pod of the Northw'0 a pan °f « »ill open their season tu>si S' ^’S’te.and Grow lent July 2 at ai"sl the Kalamazoo Battle Creek. The BomS S" Stadium in games between the first T pla' home first week of September an* °’ July and ,hc Growlers or the new! J r a8a|nsl cither the Mac Daddies. Both K.t Ofnlcd Kalamazoo play home games a Ho^00 ,eams wi" Llimazoo. Homer s"ykcr Field in aGrowicre’ prommi'oni'l8'"?111 p,anncd 10 be and only s^ ° ?"*' ~'’«nd,are the first America’s N orite sid. '?• ? namcd cheese, according to a^ Nnrti macaron' and press release. 8 “ Nor,hw«xb> League StZ“in :xx,he .bi"cha" ~ Brian Colopv. Managingsaid Growler and B<S ‘-Ainhre .r '°r ’he loaded with incredibly "laued S^" ™ftomofficWh° are Cascr 10 play bal1 an‘> ST exnen^, *’,.prcparcd “> P«‘ on a fantas- through our gares '°r eVC° °ne ,hat com“ pnmenle^;lrC ‘i."**"*110 500 fans- BoIh ball­ games that have been played in the The Battle Creek Bombers will return to C.O. Brown Stadium in taking on the Kalamazoo Growlers, in a Northwoods League ballg^ team divisions have been formed in Michigan, a South Division wt two Kalamazoo teams and a North Division with three teams base Each division has a 60-game regular season planned, beginning me The champions of each division will meet in September to decide Creek July 2, Pa,r °f three6 Bombers and in Traverse City. rst week in July. the Northwoods League Michigan Pod Championship. (Photo provided) Northwoods’ North Dakota pod so far have been sell-outs. There will be a 60-game schedule (40 home games in Kalamazoo. 20 in Battle Creek) with thc same rules and regulations as normal NWL play. Players and coaches will have increased safety measurt-s nnd out of the stadium including the elimination of travel outside of the state and area. Homer Stryker Field and C.O. Brown Stadium will open with reduced capacities and new policies to maintain a safe environ- nient for fans, player* and staff. These polican be found, in detail, on the Kalamazoo Growlers’ and Battle Creek Bombers’ web­ sites. The first game of the season for the Growlers and Mac Daddies is scheduled for Wednesday, July 1st at 6:35 p.m. at Homer Stryker Field. Hie (cam with the top record from the Michigan South division will cam a spot in the playoffs, a three-game series against the champion of a trio of Northwoods’ teams from Traverse City in the Michigan North Division. A pair of new teams have been created to take on thc Traverse City Pit Spitlers through­ out the summer in the North: thc Great Lakes Rcsortcrs and the Northern Michigan Dune Bears. All three Traverse City ball clubs will play their home games in Turtle Creek Stadium. The Pit Spitlers arc thc defending Northwoods League champions. ’’Even thc names of the assorted teams that will be playing in Michigan during this unique season of Northwoods league baseball tell you the teams are ready to responsibly bring a brand of fun to lhe state that has been sorely missed this year,” said Northwoods League President and Commissioner Gary Hoover. “Striking a balance between their serious efforts to provide safe environments for fans, players and personnel, while they simultane­ ously convey some much-needed whimsy describes exactly what fans should expect to experience from these teams when they come to thc Michigan ballparks this summer.” Thc Northwoods League is currently prep­ ping for a Wisconsin-Illinois pod to begin play as well, with six teams. A three-team North Dakota pod with games between the Bismarck Larks, the Bismarck Bull Moose and the Mandan Flickertails is currently two games into its season. This summer marks the 27th season for Lhe Northwoods Ixague. Thc Symetra Tour’s Firekeepers Championship will mark thc first tournament to be played by the LPGA Tour family follow­ ing a thrcc-month hiatus. It is also thc first of nine tournaments on thc remaining 2020 Symetra Tour schedule, making an even 10 tournaments for lhe 2020 campaign. Tickets arc by donation and the net pro­ ceeds from lhe tournament will be donated to Thc Haven of Rest, an organization that gives hope to the homeless in Battle Creek through various programs including Shelter, GAIN access program which provides life skills to homeless children, life recovery programs, transitional living programs and other out­ reach programs in the community. "We are extremely grateful to our partners and host venues for continued flexibility and support,” said Mike Nichols, Chief Business Officer of thc Symetra Tour. "They have worked tirelessly to keep all hopes and dreams alive for thc next generation of LPGA Tour stars.” The Symetra Tour will once again award LPGA Tour Membership to thc top players on thc Volvik Race for thc Card money list at the end of the year. However, five cards will be available instead of the 10 that have been dis­ tributed each year since 2008. Tournaments following thc Firckecpers Championship will be held in Arizona, California, Indiana, Alabama, Florida and North Carolina. Hastings High School releases honor roll A gypsy moth clings to the branch of an apple tree in Irving Township. An increase in the foliage-eating caterpillars has been noticed across lower Michigan this spring. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Gypsy meth cateipiittere are eating feaves; here’s what to d© Michigan Department of Natural Resources forest health experts are getting reports of oak, aspen and maple trees losing leaves to gypsy moths in the southwestern and north­ eastern parts of die Lower Peninsula, includ­ ing Barry County. The gypsy moth is an invasive species that caused widespread defoliation in the state from the mid-1980s to the early 1990s. This year, defoliation is likely to become visible within lhe next few weeks in localized out­ break areas and persist through mid-July. Gypsy moth caterpillars have pairs of red and blue spots along the back and long, dark hairs. “Gypsy moths are a nuisance but rarely kill trees.” said Scott Lint, forest health expert with the DNR’s Forest Resources Division. Keep defoliated trees healthy by making sure they get water, avoid damaging tree roots and bark. Trees should begin to develop new leaves in July to replace those that were eaten. Gypsy moth caterpillars feed on lhe leaves of oaks, aspen, crabapple and 300 other spe­ cies trees from late May to early or mid-July. When outbreaks occur in oak or aspen forests, more than one million caterpillars per acre can be feeding on tree leaves. Furtber™":' each caterpillar can consume up to 9 square feet of leaf area during the six to seven week of feeding. This means trees in land^a^.s “ well as forests can be entirely defoha cd b> late June, fortunately, most hardwo. d trees are able to produce new leaves two to11 rec weeks later, after the caterp. Ian. bare Im ■M,oXX“ “w X'» but when they oo-W^ jn a nei^lb<)r|l0O(j, live, work o gffected areas. Several campground or oth experjenced locauons Lo**^ durjng d,c pasl ycar gypsy moth . . j somc Hrcas and populations may "‘6 again this halth between mid- to Gypsy moth gg <)f U)Wer Michigan, late May across> s arc rare)y noticed Young, small ca As ,hey feed, and cause Inoc however, the caterpillars grow and consume more ;md more leaf tissue This insect, which is native to Europe and parts of Asia, arrived in the northeastern U.S. in the mid- 1860s and has been spreading ever since. Populations of gypsy moth have been in Michigan since lhe 1980s and the first big outbreaks occurred across much of Lower Michigan in the 1990s. During thc past 20 years, gypsy moth populations have occasion­ ally reached high levels in some locations in Michigan, but it can be anywhere from five to 15 years between outbreaks. Gypsy moth den­ sity usually stays high for two to three years in an area before disease and other natural enemies drive the population back to low lev­ els. A virus disease (nucleopolyhedrosi.s virus, or NPV) that affects caterpillars usually caus­ es gypsy moth outbreaks to collapse after two or three years of heavy defoliation. The gypsy moth fungus Entomophaga maimaiga can also kill large numbers of caterpillars in some years. Some residents use Bt (Bacillus thuringicnsis var. kurstaki) to protect landscape trees from severe defoliation. Bt is applied by spraying leaves on the host trees one to two weeks after eggs have hatched. Young cater­ pillars are more vulnerable to Bt and con­ trolling these early stages will protect trees from severe defoliation. Caterpillars must consume leaves that have been recently sprayed for lhe Bl lo be effective; simply coming into contact with sprayed leaves will have no effect. Bt is not harmful to humans or other mam­ mals, birds, fish or other animals. Bt products, which are approved for organic farms and gardens, also have little impact on beneficial insects, including predators, parasitoids and pollinators. Those who wish can spray Bt themselves or hire a professional arborist or tree care service to spray trees. If trees are large, it is often a gixxi idea lo hire profes­ sionals who have equipment to get the Bt into the canopy where the caterpillars will feed. More information can be found online through the Michigan DNR and Michigan State University Extension websites. Hastings High School has announced its honor roll" following the conclusion of the 2019-20 academic year. The honor roll is calculated based on a cumulative grade point average, starting with a student’s first semester of high school through the end of second semester this school year. An asterisk* indicates a GPA of 4.0 or higher. Twelfth grade Top honors Dane Barnes. Shannon Brown, Audrey Byykkonen. Hannah Johnson, Eleanor McFarlan. Kathleen Pattok.Anna Scheck. Highest honors (3.75-3.99) Joshua Brown. Kayla Brzycki, Makayla Casarez. Erin Dalman, Karsyn Daniels. Elizabeth Gonsalves/Rae Herron. Brenna Klipfer. Caeleb Meyers, William Roosien HI. Ellie Saur, Zachary Schnur. Elijah Smith. Natalie Taylor, Haylee VanSyckle. Abby Zull. High honors (325-3.74) Aidan Makled, Hunter Allerding, Jonathan Arnold, Ireland Barber, Tbomas Barnard Jr., Chelsea Beede. Elizabeth Beemer. Juan Calderon. Carter Cappon, Katherine Cook, Kevin Coykendall. Benjamin Curtis, Gracie Gillons. Blake Harris, Marcelo HernandezAvalos, John Hinkle. Tyler Kaiser, Joseph Kalmink, Jaden Kamatz, BrookLyn Knowlton, Gracie Landes. Jamison Lesick, Jessica Mueller. Bailey Musculus. Kennedy Newberry. Connie Ricketts, Steve Schnur, Matthew Sweeney. CamdenTellkamp,Abigail Thorman, Kaylee Tigchelaar, Braden Tolles, Alayna Vazquez, Paxton Walden, Sydney Wolf, Logan Wolfenbarger. Honor roll (3JO-324) Casey Barnes, Hannah Bloomberg, Collin Hawthorne, Rayna Honsowitz, Katelyn Howard, Kurtis Kauffman, Madison Lindquist, Rachael Mueller, Evan Murphy, Rigden Pederson, Alexander Steward, Gabriel Trick, Andrew Vann, Emma Vann, Joshua Yi. Eleventh grade Highest honors (3.75 and above) ’Kirby Beck. Nathaniel Birchfield, Kierslyn Brisco, Ethan Caris, *EIla Carroll*. TM. Grace Green. Skyler Grego, Sophia Groendal, Rylee Honsowitz, Addison Horrmann, Jesse Hunt, Daisy Kerby. Shelby Lindquist, Alexander Malmquist-Hubert, Jessica McKeever. *Maggie Nedbalek,’ Zackary Perry, Nathan Phillips, *Samuei Randall, *Laurcn Sensiba, Hannah Slaughter. Nicole Strouse, Aura Wahl-Piotrowski * Abigail Waller, *Kayla Willard. High honors (525-3.74) Emma Alexander, Kennedy Allyn, Jacob Arens, Valeria Arias, Alanna Beerman, Austin Bleam, Aubrec Bond, Juliet Bradfield, Haily Christie, Ryan Diijak, Skylar Dixon. Aubree Donaldson, Mitchell FJdred, Autumn Fox, Daniel Hall, Alexia Herblet, Carter Hewitt, Jade Hunter, William Jensen, Rose Lambert, Savana Leonard. Augnsj Malik, Juliann Meeker, Jacob Neil. Josephine Nickels. Bailey Nye. Gavin Patton, Gra)son Patton, Canton Pederson, Ainsley Rc5Cr* Lainey Smith, Ix)gan Smith, Nicholas Stafford, Leila Sweeney. Brynn Turnes, Corbin Ulrich, Michael Van Dorp, Javen VanZalen, Reese Warner, Emma WhiW» ihomas Wickham, Pheonix Work. Tenth grade Highest honors (3.75 and above) Ruby Barber, Brianna Barnes, Andrew Bassett, Hannah Crozier, ♦Hailey Graham, Kali Grimes, Aihsley Jones, Connor Lindsey, ♦Patrick Mallory, Noah Mead, Kiley Miles, ♦Taylor Owen, ’Matthew Pattok, Emily Roe, Harrison Smalley, ♦Carissa Strouse, Emma VanDenburg, ’Hannah Vann, Braden Vertalka, Owen Wincgar, Sage Winters. High honors (3 JO-3.74) Faith Beede, Riley Bies, Arian Bond, Rory Campbell, Anna English, Patrick Gee, Morgan Gregory, Alexis Gummo, Lindsey Herron, Wyatt Holman, Joseph McLean, BreAnn Micklatcher. Jenna Miller, Abigail Owen, Makayla Parsons, Andre Perez, Madison Petlengiil, Ellie Pipenger, Phoebe Schantz, Allison Teed, Azaleigha Wemigwans, Breanna Willard. Honor roll (325-3.49) Elisabeth Arnold, Matthew Bouchard, Marah Courtney, Mason Denton, Ian Dexter, Jackson DuBois, Claire Green. Joslyn Hinkle, Grace Kurr, Ethan Malik, Glen McFarlan, Dakota Roll,Tristin Russell.CalebTeunessen, Brooklynn Youngs. Ninth grade Highest honors (3.75 and above) Sophia Ahearn, ♦Lauren Arnold, Abigail Barton, Isobclle Bergeron, Saanj Bhakta, Eve Bishop, Alivia Cassini, Kathryn Clark, Bailey Cook. Ericka Critzer, Grace Curtis, *Valery Eaton, Justus Forell, Zara Franklin, Joseph Goggins, Zachary Gole, *Anna Haywood, Ethan Henry, Jocelyn Hernandez-Hernandez, Anden Hines, Gabrielle Horrmann, Jack Kensington. Nathan Kohmescher, *Julia McLean, ♦Molly Patton, Isaiah Randall, Ashton Rasey, Cailin Redman, Emily Simmons, Robert Slaughter, Isabelle Storm, ♦Kearan Tolles, Lillian Van Ooy, ♦Caleb Waller. High honors (3 JO-3.74) Valentina Arias, Reed Balderson, Mekih Botsford, Jackson Casey, Erin Daniels. Abby Gaskill. Ellysa Hawkins-Dix, Victoria Jerzyk, Trenton Lipsey, Addison Mays, Lawrence McKenna, Pay ton Miller. Peighlon Reser, Mackenzi Rivera, Marissa Roberts,, Bayne Signeski, Lauren Taylor, Ella Tellkamp, Johannes Tumes, Aiyanah Wemigwans, Macy Winegar. Honor roll (325-3.49) Aubree Abson, Taylor Arens, Joy Aukerman, Dylan Brisco, Elijah Brisco, Joseph Brisco, Zachary Chipman, Brinna Cobb, Xandar Holtrust, Ceziah-Desiree Jung, Harley Marlette, Graycee McCarty, Christian Owen, Megan Rowley, Cole Smith, Isaac Stanton, Noah Strimback, Cadence Vanderhoff. Your Success Is Our Business Get professional results and unbeatable value from the local specialists in business services! Business Cards • Signs, Banners & Posters • Printing & Copying • Laminating • Marketing^Materials ♦ Brochures & Handbooks ■ And Much More. Let us customize your promotional materials here! Honor roll Kaylee Bennett. Boulter. Zebulon Carey. Juden Drabik. « an Dunn, Evan Eastman, Etnilie Eddy- > •’tscher, Aaron Gole, Hunter Hays. Hw"U. Ashland Hoyt. Ijuralie HyattMarkley, Madison Morrow. Isaac Oberltn. A«dresv Contact Ty Greenfield, Steve Skedgell or Jennie Yonker Oger, Morgan 269-945-9554 Rrianna White. �Page 12 — Thursday. Juno 18. 2020 - - The Hastings Banner Baseball returns to Barry County ballfield Brett Bremer Sports Editor For one evening, at least so far, it w adjust summer. What seemed to Ik the most immediate threat was the dark clouds that rolled north of Barry Count) Christian School between games of a doublcheader Thursday - contests between thc Eagles’ summer baseball team and the West Michigan Broncos UIS travel squad. Thc only masks were on thc catchers and umpire Tony Jooslbems, who brought his other kind of mask as well, but was told he could put it away by coaches from both teams before the first pitch. Reminders of the coronavirus pandemic were few and far between. Canvas folding chairs filled lhe grass behind the backstop and along the outfield foul lines. There was pizza and snacks between ballgames. Children played in the distance, in the open areas between the school and the ball field. “Awesome,” .said BCCS head coach Brandon Strong, who is also a BCCS admin­ istrator. “It was amazing, The guys were ask- BCCS senior Mitch Noo fires one of the first pitches of lhe 2020 summer ball season during the opening inning of his team’s bailgame against the visiting West Michigan Broncos 18U team Thursday at the Barry County Christian School field. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Graduation Invitations to fit every style - - - - -- - - ----------------------------------------- 1— J?6 »Bhrry .Count* chr,st.ian Schools bench and fans along the left field line watch as game two of the Eagles’ doubleheader gains t e visiting West Michigan Broncos 18U team team gets underway Thursday evening in Hastings. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ing me after the game if 1 Kel nervous, and I believe this is niy I4th or 15th season as a head coach, and the answer is yes. Yes, I get nervous for that first game of the season. It is funny, you get a game or two in and it is all right. It is still butterflies, even getting the field ready Thursday it was kind of one of those things where you run through all the different scenarios that could happen in thc game, the things you want to try and execute and those kinds of things. “Just wow, what a great experience. We had a lol of people there.” The Broncos took the opening game of the doubleheadcr, 16-4, led by Parker Wilson who drove in seven runs. He had a high, fly-ball get a little push from the wind for a three-run home run in the top of thc first inning. His line drive shot to left Centerfield didn’t need any help in the lop of thc second, a grand slam that upped the Broncos’ lead to 10-0 at lhe time. Game two was suspended by darkness after three innings, with thc Eagles leading 4-1. BCCS senior Camden Vander Wai led off the bottom of the second inning of game one with a home run to left field. His brother Kenton Vander Wai and Jenner Rodammer bolh drove in a run for the Eagles in game one too. Kenton played short stop during the dou­ bleheader and Rodammer was at second base most of the night. lint Irin comprises three of thc five members of tye class of 2020 on the Eagles’ roster this summer. They’re joined by seniors Luciano Dalia Vecchia and Mitch Noe. “It is sweet,” Camden Vander Wai said of getting the chance to play ball again. “Being put on hold for months, you’re just chomping at the bit to get back and play and it finally happened. It is that much better when it final­ ly does.” He said it was really nice to feel that he hadn’t lost it after silting on the couch for three months, although that isn’t really what he has been doing. The Eagles have been practicing for a bit now and he’s spent a cou­ ple hours a week at Diamonds Sports Training Academy in Grand Rapids - something he has been doing throughout high school. “Two or three times a week, my dad will throw’ hundreds of pitches. I’ll probably hit 250 in a night, easily,” Camden said. “Just bucket after bucket.” Camden said having his red beard flowing helped his power stroke as well. A clean-shav­ en Camden went l-for-12at a tournament last summer and since then his facial hair has gotten just a modest trim. The Vander Wai brothers played three var­ sity seasons with the West Michigan Aviation varsity team, but weren’t not going to be able to play with the Aviators this spring and so they made plans to be a part of the BCCS Check out all our Special Services: • Business Cards » Greeting Cards Big Prints & Posters • Photo Books • Folding & Laminating • Custom Rubber Stamps • Plastic Binding and more! 1351 N.Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00 ■ 5:30 BCCS senior Camden vanaer n s greeted by head coach Brandon Strong as he rounds “ home run in thR bottom of <ne secona inning of % against the West Michigan BroncosThursday in Hastings. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Barry County Christian Schools Jarred Garnaat slides safely in to home to score his team’s fourth run in the opening game of a doubleheader against the visiting West Michigan Broncos 18U team Thursday evening in Hastings. (Photo by Brett Bremer) BCCS senior Jenner Rodammer pulls the ball to the left side in his first at-bat of the 2020 summer ball season Thursday against the visiting West Michigan Broncos 18U team. (Photo by Brett Bremer) varsity team that accepts homeschool students and other private school students from across the area before the school spring season was set to begin. “After talking with Mr. Strong for a couple weeks over the winter we were thinking okay, if anybody is going to play it is going lo be Strong because he is that enthusiastic about the sport," Camden said. “So, when he said ‘we’re getting games scheduled,’ it was all right, wc actually have a chance (lo play.)’’ Rodammer, who has plans to play colle­ giately at Goshen College next season, hil a iwo-out solo home run in lhe home half of lhe first inning in game two. He moved from sec­ ond base to the mound in what proved to be the final inning of the evening and struck out the side. Camden started game two on lhe mound, striking oul three and allowing one hil in iwo innings. He manned first base during game one. Dalia Vecchia was behind the plate catching game two for the Eagles, after miss­ ing game one. Noe got lhe start on the mound in game one, tossing the first pitch of the 2020 summer ball season. “This is lhe first opening day that I didn’t need a parka,” said Tara Wise, mother of BCCS ballplayers RJ Wise and Joe Wise. RJ, a junior, played right field Thursday and Joe, sophomore, caughl game one. Tara’s sister bought her healed gloves and a batter)' powered, healed seat for Christmas, which she was expecting lo need to use on opening day of the 2020 baseball season. “It is nice to be out. We’re having a good time. We have four sons and they all really like baseball. We’re glad to be here,’’ Tara said. “Il fell a little strange in April not lo be playing baseball. It feels a little more back io normal.” “They’re kids,” she added. “It is almost like f •t a punishment for them to be home and not play baseball when the sun is oul.” Thc Broncos spoiled the opener for the Eagles just a little, scoring six runs in the top of the first inning of game one and then five in the top of thc second inning. The Eagles began clawing out of a 12-1 hole a bit in thc bottom of thc third inning with a rally spurred by thc Wise brothers. Joe walked to lead off the inning and RJ was hil by a pitch. A bunt single by Jarred Garnaat loaded the bases before Kenton Vander Wai and Rodammer started moving guys around. A Bronco error allowed the third run to score in lhe inning. Strong said game one was really about get­ ting some young guys valuable experience “What do these games really mean? They mean a lot of next year. T hey mean a lot for our growth and development,” Strong said. “We lose a lol of seniors, and unfortunately not all of our seniors have been able to play summer baseball with us. Il is just kind of how you breed that mentality into the next group of kids coming up.” Strong was pleased with what he saw from sophomore Joe Wise behind the plate in game one. Joe had never caughl a game above the JV level before. He was also impressed with lhe at-bats from junior left fielder Garnaat in the lead-off spot and with junior Elijah Birmingham’s performance in Centerfield. Strong said he saw the approach al the plate improve from all of his guys from game one to game two. The Eagles scored the final three runs of the evening in lhe bottom of lhe third inning of game two. Kenton Vander Wai started a two-out surge with a walk. Rodammer dou­ bled him home and then scored on an RBI single from Camden Vander Wai. Noe singled home Camden before the Broncos got lhe last oul of game. •. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-06-25.pdf f27c1fdc50c175d620dc1395721e6d8a PDF Text Text Where See Story on Page 11 | a|j Trojans return to the leader5 Sone? turf as one team age 4 Sec Story on Page 14 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 1070490102590501030049058113421 .............................................CAR-RT LOT"C 005 COOS Richard Hemeri.ng 421 N Tatfee Dr Hastings Ml 49053-1134 “ 6/30/2020 9 4/ 00 AM 1 irtj i imuS VOLUME 167. No. 25 NEWS BRIEFS County plans to open offices Monday Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued an executive order that June 1 moved the state to Stage 4 of the MI Safe Start Plan. As a result, residents arc no longer required to stay home. Under that order, government offices have been allowed to resume operations. But, to prevent spread of COVID-19 and protect overall public health, visitors and employees, Barry County employees began returning to their offices in a phased approach this month. Through Friday. June 26. in addition to telephone and remote services, in-person services at county offices are available by appointment only. “It is anticipated that we will resume normal operations beginning Monday, June 29. subject to any further guidance \ or restrictions provided through execuJ live order, supreme court administrative £ order or public health order,” County Administrator Michael Brown said. ? The website barr) counly.org provides I additional Infoinudlon tin cervices and I department contact information. Brown J may be reached by calling 269-908-0906. One blood drive full, another planned Friday Versiti Blood Center of Michigan is • encouraging residents to make an appointment to donate life-saving blood in July. All blood types are needed, especially O-negative, which is the universal blood type given to patients in emergency situ­ ations and those undergoing surgery. Versiti’s local community blood drive is scheduled 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday. July 3, al the area donor site, Spectrum Health Pennock Hospital, 1009 W. Green St., Hastings. More information can be found at Michigan.versiti.org. The American Red Cross is hosting a blood drive tomorrow at the /Xmerican Legion, but all appointments reportedly have been filled. C0A offering farmers market coupon books Market Fresh is a free program for moderate income seniors age 60 years and up to purchase locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables. Seniors may sign up to receive a cou­ pon book to be used al any participating farmers market in Michigan. Each cou­ pon booklet is worth $200. Income is based on household tola income. Senior citizens with a monthly income of SJ ,926 or less for one house­ hold member and $2,607 or less for two household members qualify. Each qualifying Barry County resident age 60 or up may receive one coupon booklet through the Commission on Aging. Coupons can be used at any par­ ticipating farmer’s market and select farm markets through Oct. 31. . Seniors who have already receive their 2020 coupon books are not eligible to receive a second book at this time. To receive a free Market Fresh applica­ tion. individuals must call the COA. 2 *48-4856. weekdays between 8 a m. and 5 pjn. Coupon books will be available on a hrst-comc'first-sened basis. ^^nyone with questions should call the Thursday. ANNER PRICE 75C Hastings schoolsn- cut nearly $2.3 million Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Hastings Area Schools’ 2020-21 proposed budget, slated for consideration by the school board next Monday, anticipates $2.27 million in lost revenue. Those losses. Finance Director Tim Berlin said, come along with an expected decrease of $700 per student in state funding. In addition, they are budgeting for 75 fewer students in the coming school year, he said. And that’s best-case scenario. Superintendent Dan Remenap said. “I think W'e’re dreaming.” Remenap told Luke Hayw ood, president of the school board; Dan Patton and Mike Nickels, school board members; Assistant Superintendent Malt Goebel and Berlin during the district’s finance committee meeting Monday. The budget, as proposed, will freeze the pay of all administrators and non-unionized employees, and eliminate seven staff mem­ bers either through layoffs or natural attrition. Plus, a total of $200,000 will be cut from curriculum supplies and maintenance equip­ ment repair. Even with these proposed decreases for next year. Berlin said there is still a chance that the state will prorate the district’s per-pupil funding for the 2019-20 school year. That Hastings Area Schools’ Board of Education members Dan Patton, left, and Mike Nickels listen as Finance Director Tim Berlin updates the finance committee on the current economic status of the district. (Photo by Luke Froncheck) would mean the district would sustain an additional loss in revenue from the current school year. The number he said he’s been hearing most is $650 per student. With no proration for the 2019-20 school year, the district would end the year with a fund balance of $2.7 million, representing roughly 10 percent of the district’s $29.9 mil­ lion general fund budget. And. if only the cuts they are anticipating occur in the 2020-21 school year, the district would end that upcoming school year with a fund balance of about $ 156 million. But. if prorated cuts for 2019-20 arc applied, that would absorb most of the dis­ trict’s fund balance. “I think we could still find out about prora­ tions (for 2019-20) in August,” Berlin said. “You take $650 per student, that makes us look a whole lol worse carrying into next year.” “So. MASB (Michigan Association of School Boards) is not giving us any indication on whether or not they can continue to cut our budgets for this year after June 30, right?” Patton said. “Right.” Remenap replied. “Is there nobody that can get an answer on See CUTS, page 11 COVID-19 plasma y shows promising start Taylor Owens Stuff Writer After performing plasma transfusions on more than 20,000 patients, including some at Spectrum Health Pennock, researchers have found the COVID-19 treatment to be safe. A study released June 18 by the Mayo Clinic, which is leading the research,conclud­ ed that “use of convalescent plasma is safe and carries no excess risk of complications.” “That’s impressive,” Dr. Fergus Peacock, a hospitalist at Spectrum Health Pennock, said Wednesday. Peacock has administered transfusions to four patients as part of the study, which start­ ed April 3. The overall Spectrum Health Network has treated around 70 to 80 patients. “Everything is looking real good,” Peacock said. “I’m optimistic this will move forward and be a viable strategy'.” “Indeed, convalescent plasma may be asso­ ciated with improvement in survival,” the report continued. ’ Determining efficacy, or effectiveness, is .what the study will move toward now that the treatment has been deemed safe. Convalescent plasma therapy involves tak­ ing blood from a recovered CO VID-19 patient, filtering out the blood cells, and trans­ fusing it to someone fighting the disease. The hope is that blood antibodies created to fight the virus by the original patient will start fighting the virus in the new patient. Antibodies are produced by white blood cells and bind themselves to foreign substanc­ es. such as the COVID-J9 virus, and neutral­ ize them. According The National Geographic, consalescent plasma therapy has been used for more than 100 years, including during the pandemic llu ot 191S. Researchers in China treated COVID-19 patients earlier this year, with positive results. Peacock is one more than 7.000 physicians Dr. Fergus Peacock of Spectrum Health Pennock. across the United States working in collabora­ tion with the Mayo Clinic on the study, which gives transfusions to severely ill COVID-19 patients. The first part of the study looked at severe adverse reactions to the treatment, such as blood clotting or heart damage. Cases of such issues were rare, according to the study, and many occurred in less than olne percent of patients. Most issues were ultimately judged to be unrelated to the plasma treatment. The study also noted the mortality rate of patients has been going down since treatment began. “Although this study was not designed to evaluate efficacy of convalescent plasma,” the report stated, “we note with optimism that after 20,000 transfused patients, the seven-day mortality rale (8.6 percent) is lower than the mortality rate observed in the first See THERAPY, page 3 Middleville makes offer to another candidate for village manager Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Village of Middleville will have a new manager starting next Monday - but not the person to whom it initially offered the position. Patricia Rayl, former village manager of Colon and former city manager in Auburn, accepted the offer for the manager job from Village President Charlie Pullen Monday. Pullen made the announcement shortly before the end of Tuesday night’s village council meeting. “She was more than happy when I called her after we got turned down by our other applicant,” Pullen said in making the announcement. Rayl replaces Duane Weeks, who had been the village manager for the past five years. Weeks’ retirement officially takes effect June 30, although he worked his last day for the village June 12. “The thing I like best about working for municipal government is that that’s where we can see the most direct results of what we do,” Rayl wrote Wednesday in an email to the Banner. “This is what I find so appealing about working in local government. This is also what drew me to Middleville - there’s a lot of good stuff going on here. The village council on 9 had voted to offcr the manager’s job to Aerie Ripley, assistant city manager and downtown development authority director for the City of Alma. Ripley fumed down the village’s offer in a telephone conversation with Pullen June 16. “He said he got a belter offer. 1 wished I rn well in his career, and that was the end of ” pulicn said Wednesday. R'ivl met with Pullen and Village President Pro Tempore Sherry Ronning Monday l0 discuss the contract. During the discussions, Rayl asked about negotiating a contract of up to five years. “A single-year contract provides no security for either Middleville or myself, so I suggested either 3- or 5-year terms,” Rayl wrote in her email- “We agreed on five, and that it would be fair to look again on the thirdyear anniversary to fa’ Sl,re the contract was still doing what everyone wanted.” Pullen, while surpn^d by the request, saw this as evidence that Rayl is committed to the village long-term. “That don’t hap(*» v*ry darn often.” he said at Tuesday’s meeting. “In all my years working (for the villagel. I’ve never had anyone come up 10 ,ne a”d offer a five-year contract.” . A former journals Rayl served as village manager in Colon, a small town near the Indiana border, fr<,nl December 2018 to December 2019. Most recently, she had been a self-employed consultant and grant writer. Rayl also was downtown development authority director »’ l,le .Lenawee County community of Bli^d’0*1’ from October 2012 ,o Scptemfa-r 2015.Er°,n there, she moved to Aubuni, a small community near Bay City, where she was city manager from September -915 to November * In Auburn, J >’”•'•1 c°nununity near Bay City, Rayl wa* sucve^tl in getting it $99,(XX) gram and a $5^ । redevelopment ^'-interest loan h‘,,n 1 hv Us- Department of Agriculture to crealv' a new community Pavilion to cover d»<* ,ce l«»»k al city’s main Park. . ’‘This also include’ public event rental See MANGER, page 5 Six goats taken from the MOO-ville petting zoo were returned home Monday. (Photos provided) Stolen goats returned to MOO-ville In) lor Ovens Staff Writer Six bab) goats were returned home sate, hours alter they’d been stolen from t k j vilie Creamery petting ,n a>nl v Sunday night ... .. “It was kind of a roller coaster. I umK Weslendorp, who lakes care ol thi P’,“‘”t; with hei two young children, sail 1 ' She discovered sis of ihv s’lgh’l,a > ? at the /ix>, all under 2 months o . ing when she did her Monday mornntg Junes. She quickly jx.sted the news on M O ville’s Facebook page and asked for an. ■natnm on who took the Have a heart, n yon something.” Weslendorp posted alongside pictures of her 2 and 7-year-oId children with the goats. “Last night someone came and stole six of our precious baby goats. My son is a wreck. 1 am a wreck. ’Hiese are our babies, our pets. Please return the babies ... We will not press charges if they are relumed unharmed, we just want them back.” 'Hie post was eventually shared by more than 13.(XX) people, “It was very upsetting - not just for me, but for my children and a lot ol people that fre­ quent MOO vilie ” Weslendorp said ’There See GOATS, page 3 �wB j Page 2 — Thursday. June 25. ?020 — The Hasttnps Proposed water re-rotife spurs mixed rea™". ’ Lnkc Fronchcck Staff Writer . । Barry County Drain Commissioner J’m [Kill is playing a waiting game. f The water has been high on Upper C rooked like for more tluin three ycar>. and Dull is veaitmg for approval on a permit that wou i alow him build infrastructure to take water north through Cloverdale and Lone lakes, an eventually into the ’Fhomapple Ri'cr ; The permit, submitted to tlie Ikpiirtnicnt o Environment Great Lakrs and Energy u* ear > April, stirred lakefront homeowner* w com nkent on the proposed chance*. J During a May 21 public hearing over tn* permit, GEI project engineer Bnan ce i g*ave a presentation outlining the pr» ( ■■There has been an unacceptable lack of inforrr. mn provided to Long Lake residents regarding this n Xt ... We have been told nothing of the cost, despite specific and exact details about the materials needed f0,the project” Andrew Woodstock, Long Lake resident During a June 16 interview. Dull said they are already pumping waler from Cloverdale Lake and into Long Like through a permit by the Michigan Department of Transportation to guarantee water doesn’t cover M-43 Highway as it did in the summer of 2019. “1 believe this drain project will be very detrimental to Long Lake property values as well as the overall health of our waters,” Long long-term solution for the flooding. <■ Lake resident Andrew Vjkxxlstock wrote. “I (“The point of taking the water north is to also do not want to pay for a plan that is not rct water down on a temporary basis, ne necessary for Long Lake and offers no benefit to our lake.” swid. . “There has been an unacceptable lack of J The real long-term solution involves taking the water south to infiltration beds. But, given information provided to Long Lake residents the current volume of water in the lake, any regarding this project - most notably the exact attempt to release water into infiltration beds cost and the environmental impact to our lake and to our properties.” Woodstock wrote. “We would flood them. Cenci said. 'Comments could be submitted to EGLE have been told nothing of the cost, despite the officials for 10 days following the May 21 specific and exact details about the materials needed for the project.” hearing. , , , . At the May 21 hearing. Cenci said, because ' Residents of Cloverdale, Long, and other lakes submitted their written opinions to Cloverdale and Long lakes are a part of their own drain system, property owners on those EGLE regarding the proposed changes ’•I vote no on adding more water to Long two lakes would only pay for work that direct­ Lake,” Andrea Newell wrote in a comment ly affects them. The portion of the project in submitted to EGLE officials. Wc already Delton will be billed to the Watson Drain battle high water, and in light of the recent district and the portions that effect Cloverdale flooding in Midland, we can see what damage and Long Lake residents would be paid for by those residents. too much water can do. “Make no mistake! I am definitely for this . “Long Lake should not have to be the recipient of so many other lakes’ runoff. Wc project and the sooner the better,” Cloverdale run the risk of flooding, being in a flood zone Lake resident Mark Zanotti wrote in a submit­ that wwld prohibit or make building more ted comment. expensive or impossible and require high-cost Just to keep his home from flooding,, flood insurance. Come up with another plan.” Zanotti is running five pumps. “I have owned my house for almost 20 , But. while many opposed the plan, some spoke or submitted comments in favor of the years and until the last 24 months never had a infrastructure changes. flooding problem,” he wrote. “I have observed • T am supportive of a plan that will protect the 10-inch outlet pipe between Cloverdale lakefront properties from flood damage while Lake and Long Lake for many years, and it maintaining sufficiently high water levels to has not been flowing properly the last few facilitate recreational use and boat access years. "Understandably, our downstream neigh­ between Cloverdale. Wilkinson. Jones, and bors do not want to be flooded with water Mud lakes.” Wilkinson Lake Resident Larry Heslinga wrote in a comment submitted to from our lake and the very large system of EGLE officials. w ater that feeds into Cloverdale Lake.” Malt Diana, fisheries biologist for the . Heslinga included various questions regarding the project, including potential Michigan Department of Natural Resources, spread of invasive species, maintenance of said the DNR has numerous concerns with screens protecting lakes from the spread of proposed impacts associated with the project. He and his peers said they have continued invasive species, and project cost, among oth­ to be opposed to the transferring of water ers. SK-i... from the w.,twshed in Upper Crooked Lake lo th River Watershed, including Wilkillson Clo'«dn,c and Lo”f! lakes. ‘ “We continue to OOIX)5e this transfer of water and arc rvl»CVeJis only proposed for temporary' f]^ _qJcf “ Diana wrote in a letter to EGLE afFicinls “These watersheds have evolved based on surf3CC and Broundwater connections that have remained relatively separate. Assuming wntcr additions dissipate downstream is irresponsible and rathcr lhcy are cumulative.” * Diana added that before any project approv­ al be granted. Dull should be required to get easements from the landowners who would be subject to unnaturally high water“It is unclear if t|)e drain commission has the legal authority t0 nianipu,atc water level in lakes without legal lake levels being estab­ lished." Diana wrote. “DNR policy discourag­ es the installation of water control structures and opposes establishment of legal lake levels because of the numerous impacts to aquatic environments. “The proposed water control structures will result in preventing movement of fish, limit­ ing access to spawning and feeding habitats.” Diana wrote Upper Crooked Lake is known to support multiple invasive species, includ­ ing Eurasian watermilfoil, starry stonewort and zebra mussels. ‘Transfer of any invasive species into new water should not be allowed with this permit. Installation of a No. 24 mesh will not prevent movement of zebra mussels, and a sin­ gle-stage screening system is not redundant and may be prone to damage during pro­ longed pumping operations” Diana wrote. “An invasive species management plan should be required and approved by DNR Fisheries prior to the movement of water. ‘This invasive species plan is not accept­ able unless the applicant can demonstrate the presence in all receiving waters. All indica­ tion from DNR sampling and lake residents is that there are not zebra mussel in the down­ stream water.” Dull addressed the various concerns of res­ idents during last week's interview. He out­ lined how, given the ^rrent pumping from Cloverdale and Lp^Gkcs,,|he possibility of invasive species ajd ote wildlife spreading Lake Odessa ethanol plant back te nearly full operation Luke Fronchcck Staff Writer After months of limited operation, the Carbon Green BioEnergy LLC plant in Lake Odessa is back to nearly full capacity, Gabe Corey, the plant’s commodities and risk man­ ager, said this week. Of four ethanol plants in Michigan, the plant near the M-43/M-66 and M-50 intersec­ tion in northeast Barr}' County was one of two that remained open during the shutdown to prevent spread of COVID-19, Jeff Sandborn, District 4 director on the Michigan Farm Bureau Board, said. POET Biorcfining in Caro was the other plant that remained open. “As people drive, gasoline usage goes up,” said Sandborn, a fourth-generation farmer who raises com, soybeans and wheat near Portland. “It’s all relative: We’re doing better compared to two months ago. but we’re worse off compared to two years ago.” These ethanol plants grind com to produce fuel-grade alcohol, then send it to refineries to be mixed with gasoline for use as fuel. Corey said. While both plants remained open, they w5cre operating at a limited capacity because of a significant drop in demand for fuel. /Another concern that had an impact on the operations was worker safety with the threat of spreading COVID-19. Jeff Sandborn represents District 4 on the Michigan Farm Bureau Board of Directors. His district includes Barry, Kent, Ionia, Ottawa and Allegan counties. Tuesday. Corey reported that the Lake Odessa plant is almost back to operating at full capacity/ “There instill a lot of uncertainty around driving demand," he said. “Demand has gone up ... Therj are more people driving around now.” Last week, demand was 20 percent lower than al this time last year. When people are stuck at home, they’re not on the roads driv­ ing their vehicles and consuming fuel, Corey said. “The areas of the country that had the most restrictive orders saw as high as a 70 percent reduction driving demand - and we saw that in our marketplace here.” he said. That lower demand equated to less com being ground for alcohol. “It’s been a tough go here.” he said. “We’re hanging in there; we stayed running. We look everyone’s com, bui, that being said, it’s been a rough couple of months.” While driving demand is not back up to 100 percent, Corey said they are out of the woods for now. Johnstown Township farmer Mark Halbert, co-owner of Halbert Dairy Farm LLC, said about 15 percent of their com crop goes toward ethanol production at the plant in Lake Odessa. Halbert said he’s concerned that, because people are driving less, the demand for etha­ nol will be lower. “It’s all a big question mark,” Kick Halbert, Mark’s brother, said Most of the Halberts’ crop is produced for their dairy herd’s consuinpdon and’ . u.se the pandemic hit in the winter and spring, the brothers were able to get the«r corn ,n dlc ground without any unusual teucS; .. . Both agreed that the demand for ethanol would increase if people began driving more for work and leisure. Corey said, as drivinn demand .8°“ “Pwill the demand foreth.nnol.bu' " «*'e s£>n going to return to loo nercent anytime soon. "When you look ”£ data and the number of people who have been une«’Pl05'cd' \ 3-AC said. ...Going forward tlicrv JUM . the same volume of people "^corn] that Big picture: That’s bushel’ l°‘ u * wU u“;d" to ethanol. . , ,uck on the road C,Whl C ^Ple arc gC‘" m keep a close ™‘‘•C°7sa,d "’ey have gf °*f,‘hc novel eye on any potential second coronavirus. ». ••a , . hut we can t - *> wotst is behind us.” M between lakes already exist. „ .. impact 'v0“ld^ d'|he environmental impact Ccncl a"d«^drj (hc May 21 hearing. “Weeds are coming in right now'. „f the P'°J“a|er sofuth toward Kalamazoo said. “Wc would be putting a filter on to efit Long Lake." . .. Taking (cr environmental impact WOU,^,K?'itn^rt^ Because they are already pumping, said, if the permit were approved, they cou than taking । d j10W the EGLE can not-on!y because Gull install a mesh screen to attempt to block <my weeds or invasive species from moving from change the n tur fm s|qling , don,( lake to lake. Lake d0Co ‘ - Long latke resident Sue Lake A screen would be installed at the detention wan‘ dnC' commit submitted to EGLE offipond and between Cloverdale and Long lakes. “Many of these lakes have extensive chem­ Wr?,C'? ?ivc at 'he end where this water is Lake, and we have ical treatment plans for controlling vegeta­ cials. 1 llv<proposal of enlargtion,” Diana wrote. “The treatment schedule lieitlg dumpe stiingWeioons. ’’ must be considered if pumping is to be per­ •■The reXcussions of this proposed project mitted, and no pumping should be conducted Th Kvnn’t be fully known until it is too while chemicals are applied or without appro­ priate buffers. Allowing chemical passage n°Bri n NunnaHy wrote in a comment downstream could impact vegetation in wet­ lands or lakes. Despite these concerns, I believe the impacts of the proposed work can be mini­ mized if the project is temporary flood relief U1-There will still be flooding and probably and the long-term solution is utilized,” Diana in^^X^Tendthe°w^ wrote. ‘However, there needs to be assurance of this action in the permit Sh like it should be into first place instead Doug Bamficld, vice president and inva­ irfZing to waste more time and money of sive weed management program coordinator people who don’t want tins tn the first place for the Long Lake-Cloverdale Association, This needs a thorough evaluation by an omexpressed his opinions about the permit. side party, but better yet. the project should be I am very concerned about the transfer of invasives from Crooked Lake and Cloverdale denied!” . .. Before the public comment portron pf he Lake to Long, especially zebra mussels,’ Bamfield wrote. “Our current budget for five May 21 hearing began. Grand Rapids EGLE years is $200,000, and we cannot stand the Office hearing officer Kelsie Krupp said even amount of cost increases that would be if public opinion is largely on one side of either approving or rejecting the permit entailed to fight zebra mussels. Even with the screen there is still the risk EGLE was nol bound to side with that opin­ of contamination when the screens are ion. changed. I urge you to reconsider the southern Dull said he hopes to have the permit in a gravity route to the Kalamazoo River. Gull month and a half, should EGLE approve it. Hastings, Nashville libraries on map of free Wi-Fi hotspots Greg Chandler Staff Writer Hastings Public Library and Putnam District Library in Nashville are two Barry County locations featured on a new statewide Wi-Fi hotspot map to assist residents who currently lack internet access at home. The state, in partnership with Connected Nation Michigan, recently released the state­ wide hotspot map, which shows about 300 public Wi-Fi locations across the state. The hotspot at the Hastings library has ...popular, library proven to be exceptionally director Peggy Hemerling said. * ’ • Tt > I • f1II ----------•’•‘We leave ours'oft24/7,so almost any time of the day or night, you can find somebody parked in our parking lot or parked on the street using our Wi-Fi,” Hemerling said. She filled out a survey that was sent to the library' to be included on the map. She said she wants people to know that the hotspot is available for anyone in the community who needs internet access. “We’re working on boosting ours so that the signal will go even further,” Hemerling said. During the 2018-19 fiscal year, the hotspot at the library' received 18.223 uses. Usage has dropped off during the current fiscal year, which Hemerling attributes to the COVID-19 pandemic. She projected 15,158 uses for the fiscal year that concludes June 30. The Wi-Fi hotspot at Putnam District Library' is password-protected, but the pass­ word is easily available. “People just ask for it and we give it out freely,” library director Savannah Shilton said. The library' recently reopened after the pan­ demic, but during the closing, Shilton said she received numerous requests via Facebook for the hotspot password. “We ended up posting it on all our windows that face outward,” she said. To use the rnap, residents may type in an address, city or ZIP code, along with how large of a radius they’re willing to travel. Public Wi-Fi hotspots, such as public libraries, grocery stores and parks, voluntarily submit their information through a form included on the map. Each little blue dot rep­ resents a hotspot, and when clicked on, pro­ vides the address, network name and pass­ word. The map only includes public Wi-Fi hotspots - not commercial businesses, such as McDonald’s or Starbucks. The COVID-19 pandemic and transition to remote and distance learning has increased the need for residents and students to have easy access to broadband services. The Wi-Fi mapping effort, spearheaded by the Michigan Public Service Commission and Connected Nation Michigan, along with the Department of Technology, Management and Budget and the Michigan Department of Education, is an interim step amid the coronavirus pandemic to spotlight publicly available broadband hotspots for households without internet access. “We know that more work must be done to ensure residents and students throughout the state have accessible and affordable broad­ band internet service,” MPSC Commissioner Tremaine Phillips said. “Making these Wi-Fi hotspot locations easily available is an import­ ant bridge to increasing the accessibility of these critical services during this difficult time.” “While public Wi-Fi hot spots are not a replacement for home connectivity, they are essential for those needing connectivity during a time when education, work and healthcare are relying more and more on online platforms,” Eric Frederick, of Connected Nation Michigan executive direc­ tor, said. “These public and private locations are helping Michiganders stay connected.” Lack of broadband internet access and affordability are issues in Michigan and across the country, particularly for people living in rural areas and for communities where there is persistent poverty. Barry County Services Co., parent compa­ ny of MEI Telecom, recently received $11.8 million in grants and Ioans from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to expand fiber­ based broadband service in lb Barry County townships. The company was one of two Michigan providers awarded $225 million from USDA’s Broadband ReConnect Program, aimed at expanding broadband access to unserved rural areas. In addition, the Federal Communications Commission, in response to the coronavirus pandemic, awarded more than $1.8 million from the COVID-19 Telehealth Program to help health care providers offer connected care services to patients at their homes or mobile locations. Several active programs and grants are cen­ tered on increasing investment in and access to broadband in Michigan. DTMB is now administrating the Connecting Michigan Communities Grant Program, which will award $18 million in grants for projects, that extend broadband service into unserved areas in Michigan. In addition, under the federal CARES Act, which Congress approved as a stimulus amid the coronavirus pandemic, Michigan received nearly $390 million under the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund to support local school districts to help with the impact COVID-19 has had on the elementary and secondary schools. These funds can be used for allowable activities to assist in continuing to provide education services, including supporting remote learning by helping reduce the digital divide. The Michigan Department of Education also is applying for additional com­ petitive federal funding to help reduce the number of students who lack access to broad­ band internet. Because home is now a more obvious extension of school, we need to narrow and ultimately eliminate the digital divide. While many school districts have provided devices, this online map of Wi-Fi hotspots is a great free resource for students, parents, educators, and others,” State Superintendent Dr. Michael Rice said. According to the MDE, more than 70 per­ cent of the state’s students report using inurne -enabled devices at home for schoolwork. But more than 28 percent of students live in homes wtthout internet access that can sup­ port virtual learning. H "A^Sr *° hi8h sPc«" internet access is JevZphX field gan?CrS paniciPa,C On a State Chief Wo •CdUCi'tion ond ^iness »ULe eZ” ‘.°n °fficcr Brom S"bitz band access througJJom thrive.” an Matew^ °PPOrtunity to at httpsZii^smapsTre11' 'nap,can ** found P v i c w e r / hi d " Pt^>’-com/apps/webapf5a04632b411254053^8403 = ?25aa7 information on the iL, by en,enng city name. ^^reh engine, such as a Magazine conlr.buied m t �7he 7 he Hastings Banner — Thursday. June 25.2020 - Page 3 j Savanah Kawhcle A public K °n,rll,u'inx Writer ment of i Cllnn8to consider the establishfor the fonv lni?ere,al rehabilitation district for the H i ?r ^nL?rt building is scheduled inc at 7 n S ,n£s < Council's next meetE^bnP."' Mon<la>-July 13. district <S a co,nniercial rehabilitation allo" theK °ld Kman would Rchnh;r.C building, under the Commercial ™‘'t1 a"°” Acu ,0 ««*<*« a reduction in property taxes. fn^?alk lh*S does for lhc developer is - .s !hc laxablc value at what it currently wnh U °?w‘ City Manager Jerry Czarnecki Pained to the city council during its r * °. ay meeting. “The only thing it does by m single parcel, is it takes the one) (hat the downtown development authority would collect from that parcel and reakes it consistent with what it is this year. % Aher this is done, the value of the prop­ erty goes to what it is 10 years down the road, because they [the property owners) are asking for a 10-ycar freeze, and then, at that time, the taxes arc on whatever the actual value of whatever the building is.” Czarnecki said the special designation v»ould provide developers a chance to put some money into a building, such as the former Kmart store, that may need some rehabilitation or refurbishing and then recoup some of their investment by freezing what they have to pay in taxes. After the public hearing, and if the coun­ cil approves it. the request would go to the stale taxation bureau, which would have to approve it as well. Czarnecki added. Council monitor Brenda McNabb-Stange asked at what level of taxes thc building would to frozen. The taxes will to* based on the value of the building as of Dec. 31.2019. Czarnecki said. -Every Pec. 31 is when it's updated, so it will to frozen at that,” he added. -Because. Alatewide, there’s problems with vacant big-box stores and taxes, and I don’t want us to get in the middle of that ” McNabb-Stange said. “So, if you wo‘u{d have that answer for the next meeting, I’d appreciate it.” Council member Al Jarvis commented on the 10-ycar duration of the tax freeze. “As a council person that will probably be here another four years, I would hale to make a commitment for six more years for a future council, and I noticed that it’s up to 10 years. It could to two years. It could to four years,” he said, “So, I would probably have a problem going right away for 10 years.” Council member Don Bowers, who agreed with Jarvis, was the only member who cast a ‘no vote on setting the public hearing. More information on the Commercial Rehabilitation/Xcl can be found at Michigan, gov/taxes under the ‘Property Tax Exemptions' section in the ‘Property Tax’ tab. To participate in the public hearing, indi­ viduals may visit the Hastingsmi.org web­ site. Under the “Services” tab in the “News” section is the downloadable link for the remote meeting. City extends downtown parking time through August Savanah Kacchelc Contributing Writer To help the downtown area as businesses reopen and comply with restrictions, the Hastings City Council Monday approved a request from the Downtown Development Authority to extend downtown parking lime limits by an hour. “Because of the requirements that some of the businesses that are working to open up have, it’s taking longer for customers to uti­ lize the services, whether it’s a restaurant or a hair salon or w hatever, so they requested that council consider, allowing for an extra hour just until the end qf the ,sqmmcras people are getting used to the new norm that they, have,” City Manager deny .Czarnecki, said during Monday’s council meeting. “Similar to the stay of the order for the restaurants to allow' for the dining on the parking space, just to kind of help transition as we come out of this pandemic.” Council member Don Bowers asked if the stores downtown are going to stay open to accommodate the additional hour of parking. Mayor David Tossava clarified that people may park downtown after the stores are closed, but this would allow for an additional hour while people are receiving services. “They can park downtown after hours as much as they want, but some of the issues we’ve been hearing is because of the precau­ tionary things that the hairdressers have to do, it’s taking a lot longer than two hours to do hair sometimes.” Tossava said. “So, that’s why they’re asking for that extra hour.” Council member Brenda McNabb-Stange asked if signs would have to to put up to let people know of the additional hour of park­ ing. Chief of Police Jeff Pratt said a slay of the ordinance that only allows for two hours of parking would suffice, considering the request is only to allow an extra hour in the summer. “It’s only going to be for eight weeks. I think we will be OK.” he added. McNabb-Slange questioned if something could to put in the stores to let people know; that way, they would not have to worry about moving their cars. “We will work with the downtown busi­ nesses to make sure they have the informa­ tion, seeing it is their request, and we will also make.sure jl.Vpn Facebook and that kind of stuff, too. Czarnecki said.. ..................... Bowers asked how people from out-of­ town would know about the change in parking limitations. Considering this is mainly for people who make appointments for services, Tossava said, like at a hair salon, and not for people who arc getting lunch or dinner downtown, new signs aren’t needed. “Well, I don’t think it’s an expense we should go to as far as putting up new' signs,” Tossava said. “I think probably staff and the police department could come up with some­ thing. “I would think that when you get an appointment to gel your hair done, the hair­ dresser could let you know, ’Hey, we have three-hour parking now downtown.’ Other than that. I don’t know how' they’re going to do it,” he added. The additional hour for downtow n parking began June 23 and will extend through Aug. 31. GOATS, continued from page 1 were so many people that were upset.” The post ultimately led to the goats’ return. They were taken by three teenage boys, Westendorp said, in what the teens may have thought was a joke. The boys look care of the goats until the Facebook post made its way to their parents. The boys, their parents, and a Barry County Sheriff’s Deputy met Westendorp at MOOville Monday evening, with the goats and had a long conversation. “1 felt like there was a good conversation, and there was a lot of honesty and openness, Westendorp said. “Decision-making is not always a strong suit in the young mind. I think they just made a really poor split-second decision ... ’ do believe that people can make a poor dec sion but then turn around and do £ "The hardest thing in the entire day'was to tell my 7-year-old who helped raise the goa, and bottle fed them, that they were go . might not come back. But then to se£ on his face when he saw them again. the high point of the day.’ z.immes Westendorp said she will not against the boys, but they will speii mcr doing some community service family farm near MOO-ville. “My hope is to make a real change .n some The MOO-ville petting zoo has around 40 animals. one’s life when they’re in a position to to changed.” Weslendoq) posted on Facebook Tuesday. ”My hope is they will walk away with a better respect for others, and some blisters on their hands.” । >• mnips one-hour photo processing, See us for color cop > N printing needs, business cards, tnvrtturns ^R|JT|N£. pLUS J-Ad Third electric vehicle charging stati°h installed in county Greg 9’an<llir Staff Hastings ^cVXVv7!"r I lemerling bought *°lt hybrid car two years ago. j lhe . "1 just really !' .. she (reaming my) carbon lootpn <1 For what we paid for mine was • . *e would have paid for an equal car. I, wasn’t like it cost me ntor«- . Hemerling c^ar^bich ni. ar al home, using a Level 2 charger. plUgs imo a outlet,.similar to ‘ ...l er,or cfothes dryer plugs into. Il ,2:cie Iab°ut four hours to fully charge herv - he said she hasn’t put gas in it in f°ur m°nths. While Hemerhnt Pljhs to continue charging her car at n ’ Mie s happy to hear about the new elec "^Tging station in Hastings' downtown * • The ChargePoint station, which was 3PP oved by the city’s Downtown Deve l°P Authority in November 2019. was m aHed Monday in lhe city-owned lot at the s West comer of Mill Street and Michigan Avenue, across from the Superette party store. “It won’t to a big nefit to local electric car drivers, but it attract electric car drivers to Hastings* s e said. "They can drive here, park and charge while they go out to eat or do a little shopping. ’ The addition ol new charging station gives electric vehicle owners another option in what, to date, has been limited availability of such stations around Barr}- County. Before Monday, there were only two such stations in the county - one at Consumers Energy’s service center at 1125 W. Green St., the other at Middleville Village Hall. How the city ended up with the station involved a slight twist of fate and the cooperation of neighboring Hastings Charter Township Supervisor Jim Brown. Two years ago, the township looked into the feasibility of a charging station al its hall, near the township recycling facility. “I got a call from Tesla wanting to know if we’d to interested in putting in a charging station in the township.' Brown said. Brown expressed interest in having a station put in, but Tesla never made a follow­ up call, he said. Then the township applied for a grant with Consumers Energy to have a ChargePoint station installed. Consumers approved a $5,000 grant that could be used to defray the cost of installing the station. But the grant had stipulations requiring a maintenance agreement for the station, Brown said. Tl WAsthen' that Browri fcpproachbd Drift1 King, economic development director for the. city, about whether the city might be interested ’ in having a statiotf installed, using the grant lhe township had'received from Consumers Energy. / ’ I The new ChargePoint electric vehicle charging station in downtown Hastings was installed this week. The City Council still needs to approve a master services and, subscription agreement with ChargePoint before drivers can start using the station. A1 decision on that agreement was tabled Monday and will be taken back up on July 13. “It made more sense for this particular grant, that the city could take advantage of it,” Brown said. At first, the city looked al the library as the location for the charging station. Locating a station there had been under discussion even before the library was built 13 years ago. Hemerling said. “lite problem was, to get the grant, the charging station has to have two ports so that two (vehicles) can charge al once,” she said. “Our parking is very limited. To take up two parking places ... would have been difficult for us. Il was determined that a city parking lol was a far more feasible place.” Consumers Energy officials agreed to allow the grant to be transferred to the city. The grant brought the final price for installation down to $10340, which is being paid for by the DDA. Westside Solutions was the contractor behind the project, and local company Morgan Electrical Services installed the station. King sees the charging station as an economic development tool for the city and its-downtown. • adds another facet to the ^cHyTpT Hastings that we didn’t have before lb attract visitors or destination shoppers.” he Sltfd. 'We' are hoping people (whodrive electric vehicles] will migrate to our downtown area [to charge their vehicles] and make use of our shops and restaurants.” Consumers installed its charging station just west of the city limits at the end of last* year. The station is capable of charging twef' vehicles at the same time, company spokesmari Terry' DeDoes said. “The usage is growing. It’s taking some lime for people to learn that it’s there,”"’ DeDoes said. G Middleville’s electric charging stations1' were installed in 2017 in the parking lot of the village hall with the leadership of its* downtown development authority. The DDA approved a five-year lease with Blink’* Charging, a competitor of ChargePoint in the * electric vehicle charging market, that will expire in 2022. •’ “The project was part of the DDA’s 2017-’ capital improvements,” DDA Director Nichole Lyke wrote in an email to the Banner.'’ The chargers cost a total of $2,565, Lyke'wrote. No statistical information on usage of the Middleville units was available, but interim Village Manager Brian Urquhart referred to’ usage of the chargers as “intermittent.” ? __ ____________ "But wc all know___________ as the auto industry. changes, so does the demand for electronic?vehicles and thus the planning for EVstatioriTbecome more essential,” Urquhart wrote in an email to the Banner. \ Coqncil tables agreement for etectreni© vehicle charging station Savanah Kacchele Contributing Writer The Hastings City Council is holding off on a master services and subscription agreement decision with ChargePoint for the new elec­ tric vehicle charging station downtown. 'flie council Monday decided to table lhe signing of lhe agreement until its next sched­ uled meeting in two weeks. “This is an agreement with ChargePoint. a company that advertises the location of the charge station,” City Manager Jerry Czarnecki said. “Anyone who has an electronic vehicle can use an app to find charging stations. Because they’re using the app. ChargePoint will collect the funds and then distribute those back to the city.” The agreement needs to be signed in order for electric vehicle owners to utilize the charging station that was purchased by the downtown development authority in November 2019 with lhe help of a $5,000 Consumers Energy rebate. Installation of the charging station was completed this week. Council member Brenda McNabb-Slange expressed issues she had with the agreement, and with specific terms. “They can change the terms of the agree­ ment at any time and you can’t terminate if you don’t like the terms,” she said. ‘They say that they provide youthe changes, and imme­ diately upon you receipt of it, if you use the station, you’ve accepted the terms. They don’t give you any time to review the changes. They don’t give you any rime to say ‘No, we don’t want it. No. we don’t agree with the changes.’ It’s just immediate,” Another term Chargepoint can chlinge m any time for any ^7}’ *s what percent of revenue it receives, McNabb-Stangc said. Currently, the agreement states that they will get 10 percent ot all revenues, but the compa­ ny could alter the percentage amount without telling the city. “So, they could start taking 50 percent of the revenue, and you find out about it after the fact because it’s in their newsletter,” McNabbStange said. , “These clauses just don’t make sense to me,” she said. , McNabb-Stange us td would cost the city- c Za{iiecki said lhe price the remote server. < oud, p]anSt designed to help the owner ol m charging station oper­ of Hastings city limits 1351 N. M-43 Hwy-- "___________ -__________ ate the station and customize the require­ ments. was included in lhe cost of the charging station. “The first five years of the cloud service was in the initial cost of the unit,” he said. “It was all a package thing that the DDA pur­ chased.” After the rebate from Consumers Energy was applied, the final cost of lhe charging station to the DDA was $10340, Community Development Director Dan King said in an interview Wednesday. “That would’ve been nice to know,” McNabb-Slange said. The cost per charge is up to the city to determine. Czarnecki said. “Once we get th& agreement set, we, will work with the DD^» to set the price.’ he added. “The thought behind this is that there is no additional cost beyond what the DD?\ has already paid.” . McNabb-Stange also asked about specific regulations. e "Does anybody know’ what the law is for the resale of electricity?" she asked. We are buying it from Consumers and we are resell­ ing it to the user and we’ve never done any­ thing like that before. What’s thejaw? What can we do and what can’t we do? "You’re asking for an approval on an inent that isn’t all there.” she added. We don’t have all lhe things figured out. Czarnecki said nofesue regarding the resale of electricity was brought up when C ity Attorney Stephanie Fekkes reviewed the agreement. Fekkes explained that the drafted memo included a summary and an outline of the agreement that included statements about not having enough research done on certain ma - ters. H» “I’m not sure, probably because of the tim­ ing and receipt of this contract being late last,, week and the turnaround time of it being today, I would suspect that the summary ha^ ( not been provided to council on an attor- . ney-client privilege basis yet,” Fekkes said. f ’ McNabb-Stange then moved to table i1k< item for two weeks until the next meeting in * order to gather more information. The next, city council meeting will to at 7 p.m. Monday^ July 13. PLASMA, continued from page 1 h 5,000 transfused patients (12 percent). lire change may be due to a number of.factors, such as patients with less severe cases » receiving treatment, better overall treatment, methods and the availability of plasma treat­ ment earlier in a patients’ illness. The study does not include people who have not received plasma. *4. Peacock said the ideal scenario would to randomized, double-blind study, which wouldS be able to eliminate variables and directlfr compare patients who received plasma, an$3 those who had nol. But that is beyond thjp scope of the current research. 'Die Mayo Clinic study is expected to tak^ about a year. Now that lhe treatment has toe£~ deemed safe, research can shift toward deter|4 mining if it is effective Water’sEdge Financial LLC Jeffrey A. Keessen, AIF® (269) 948-9969 525 W Apple St. Hastings, MI 49058 " www.watersedgefinancial.com T,din<i care of what's important to you that can/ocas on what matters nrnst to yv>« Jrfttvy A. UT* t tHvjch 1FLI tnaiKul Member HNR.VS1PC S.. unUr * n< ‘J Karra • ____________ ____________ �Papa 4 — Thursday. June 25, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Did you SCC 7 Where have all the leaders gone. Bovine party line Looking as if they are huddled for a conference call, several cows and a calf gather along a wire fence in their Castleton Township pasture. We’re dedicating this space to a photo­ graph taken by readers or our staff members that represents Barry County. II aave a photo io share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway. Hastings, MI 49058; or email news(dj-adgraphics com. Please mclu e information such as where and when t c photo was taken, who took the photo, an other relevant or anecdotal information. Do ye. remember? One of three five-generation sets Banner June 15, 1950 Five generations - John Bower, Lake Odessa's oldest resident, will celebrate his 100th birthday tomorrow, June 16, by greeting friends and relatives at the home of his son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. [Charlotte] George Barker. 1023 First St. Enjoying good health, ‘•Grandpa" Bower, as he is familiarly known by many, attributes his long life to clean living, no smoking or drinking, and early to bed, early to rise - which at least makes a man healthy and wise, but not always wealthy. Bower is the only living child of a family of six, and four of his children are living. They are: Mrs. Barker and Mrs. J.J. [Emma] Griebel, of Lake Odessa; Mrs. Arvilla Murty of Grand Rapids; and son Tello of Big Rapids. Another son, Merton, died five years ago. There are two other sets of five generations in the family besides the one shown above: John Bower, Mrs. G. Barker, Mrs. Myron Hancock of Holt, Robert Hancock and son, Clinton, of Big Rapids. The other is John Bower, Mrs. J.J. Griebel, Keith Baumgardner, Mrs. Gilbert Totten and daughter Laura of Red Bank. N.J., who expect to be present for the birthday party. [No other names were given for the above photo.] Have you met? Brenda Morgan, 52, has a special place in her heart for Barry County. She now works in the county seat, but her path to that job was not always clear. “I grew up here and have tried to move to other places, but always found myself com­ ing home,” she said. Morgan was bom at Pennock Hospital Dec. 1,1967. After graduating from Hastings High School in 1986, she attended Olivet College for a year on a volleyball scholar­ ship. However, she decided she wasn’t ready for more schooling. After doing various jobs, Morgan got her first office position in 1990 at Cedar Roof Design, a small specialty roof­ ing company in Hastings. “1 worked there for many years until I decided I wanted to stay home with my chil­ dren,” she said. “That ended when my youngest child went off to school and I start­ ed volunteering for the schools, and helping out with swimming class.” Morgan also volunteered for the Hastings volleyball team from 1987 to 1988 and coached her children, Austin and Lexi, in soccer, baseball and volleyball. Morgan worked as the Hastings Middle School vol­ leyball coach from 1998 to 2007 and as lhe varsity volleyball coach from around 2000 to 2007. “When my kids started playing travel ball, I stopped coaching at the schools to watch them,” she said. . After volunteering and working in sports, Morgan started her career in the courts in 2009 as the chief financial specialist for lhe Barry County Trial Courts. In 2010, she went back to college to finish her degree in busi­ ness and giaduatcd in 2015 from Cornerstone University with a bachelor of science in administration. She then applied for a case manager position in the Adult Specialty Court office and has been working there Brenda Morgan since November 2015. “I love what I do. and I love helping others who need help with addiction or compliance issues,” she said. In the midst of attaining her degree and her current job, Morgan met John, her significant other, in 2011. They spend their time at Silver Lake, at the races, grilling, and work­ ing on home projects They both share a love for great Danes, and a new puppy was recently brought into the family. Shilo, the puppy, keeps them busy, Morgan said. Besides spending time with John and Shilo, Morgan she enjoys spending time with her kids. “When I am fortunate enough, 1 get to spend time with my adult children,” she said. Morgan's favorite thing about Barry County is the sinall-town leeling she gets from lhe community. “I love Barry County, not just because 1 grew up here and work here, but liecause of the friendships I have mack' over the years. And just running to the store, I will most likely nm into a few,” she said. “That is what happens in a small town. I love that feeling of know ing so many.” For her love and appreciation for the com­ munity and her assistance to others through her job. Morgan is this week's Banner Bright Light. Favorite childhood memory: Roller skating on Saturday nights. Something about me most people don’t know: There isn’t much. Ask, and 1 11 tell you. Best advice I ever recci'cJ: Don t stop trying to better yourself. n , Favorite teacher: Mr- R‘,bcrt Pa,mcr* fourth grade. First job: McDonalds. Favorite TV program: "Live P ,' .. Person I most admire: Al P»ndlold boss. Greatest song ever written: Anything by Queen. Favorite dinner: Ribs on t,,c griI1L . . What I’d tell a high school « Do something you have^a passion f°r’ it’s not a job. ‘ My biggest challenge: T0'ing forBel about those 1 couldn't help­ Favorite website- .HrecipC’com „ ~ What I'd do if j * thc lotW’ ay ° all family mortgages Favorite movie. rr‘i$e ” ... Each "eek, the'..011-., profile ilPctM’n "h» makes the7 B“"nuLP shine- Do you I now t u>ntmumty h . featured Miow someone ui, nmi d H • l^ause of voh.,, ° ' i fun-lovot? I*r- other reasS^in^^ 490581 How apt those words would sound if set to the 1960s song “Where Have All the im:lp r nrotestors to take over and control esffiKX.* Flowers Gone?” sung by Peter, Paul and Mary. Written by the late folk singer and social 5 L-iion in the downtown area, renamactivist Pete Seeger in 1955, lhe song gained wide popularity during the time our soldiers ?V5it Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone, in were fighting a war in Vicinam that not all mg it yaP . the rules because it s mcncans supported and that cost so many ives. 7*he flowers have been picked, the it°off the Xor l>“ dcclared “ ’ "Summ" song goes, and are now on the graves of of" or a block party. Store owners and young men and women due to thc madness Xti of the area sec it as a takeover of °. Uar’ I?1 e son” an onc» bul ’ls their personal property and are ^avin£c using line tells us why we’re still hearing nink atout it: Why would any of the hun­ i sung. When will they ever learn? Oh, dreds of thousands of people who v«it these when will they ever learn?” that song could be applied to this -rent cities every year ever want to visit now country's leaders. We know what’s causing if these cities can be been taken over by mos o the problems we face today and what needs to be done to fix many of them, ^Monday evening, police officers were yet we continue to make the same mistakes called to Lafayette Park just outside: the White House to stop protestors from tca™g over and over again. I’ve spent more than 50 years in business down the statue of Andrew Jackson..The and have always been interested in the mob attached a rope to the head of th impact of strong leadership. Reading, 167-year-old figure in an attempt to pull attending seminars, and accepting leader­ down the statue because they don t like the ship positions have given me a good under­ principles for which Andrew Jackson stood. standing of what makes a good leader. AH Why do we allow these mobs that rind that I vc experienced in recent years, though, history intolerable to tear down statues, has left me bewildered by one question: plaques and historic sites that have been in V here have all the leaders gone? place for decades? To the reflective, educat­ . I?. 1 Pl.,rc^ilseJ lhe newly issued ed mind, these monuments are reminders of । n ®ecom*n8 a Leader at the Hastings our past and, oftentimes, testimonials to C hamber of Commerce’s annual dinner and how far we’ve come and how we ve made fundraising auction. In his book, thc late our world better. scholar and organizational consultant A family member of George Floyd - who Warren Bennis explained that leaders are was killed by the overzealous police officer made, not bom, and explained how people in Minneapolis and whose death ignited the become leaders, how they lead and how ongoing nationwide protests - recently ref­ organizations can encourage or stifle poten­ erenced writer and philosopher George tial leaders. Santayana in public remarks. Bennis suggested leadership is like beau­ “Those who do not learn history are ty. it’s hard to define, but you know it when doomed to repeat it,” the late Santayana you see it He questioned the lack of leader­ said. “Those who cannot remember the past ship in America and put lhe blame at lhe feet arc condemned to repeat it.” of thc individuals who hadn’t made lhe That’s why history is so important, even grade. Sounds familiar, doesn’t it? And it’s though it might not be filled with great especially distressing when it’s coming memories or actions of which we’re proud. from a book written more than 20 years ago. History gives us a roadmap to belter under­ "Greed, timidity and lack of vision are stand our weaknesses so we don’t repeat lhe rampant among (he current crop of pseu­ same mistakes over and over again. But do-leaders." Bennis wrote. where arc the leaders today who can define He based his book on the assumption that what this turmoil is all about, who can real leaders are people who are able to inspire us to use it for greater good? express themselves fully - people who We need a leader who can help us under­ know who they are. their strengths and stand that this is not just about racial injus­ weaknesses, and how to fully deploy their tice and calls of hate and condemnation of strengths and compensate for their weak­ our country. This is about an opportunity for nesses. They also know what they want and us as a nation to change direction, to improve how to communicate with others to gain lhe rules under which we live. It’s about a cooperation and support. new America. "Do not follow where the path may lead,” “Leaders have a significant role in creat­ advised American essayist and philosopher ing the stale of mind that is lhe society,” said Ralph Waldo Emerson. He advised great John W. Gardner, former secretary of health, leaders to "go instead where there is no path education and welfare in a November 1987 and leave a trail.” Time magazine story’. “They can serve as I think most people would agree that symbols of the moral unity of the society; effective leadership is essential to a func­ they can express lhe values that hold the tioning society, but you’d be hard-pressed to society together. find effective leadership today across this “Most important, they can conceive and country'. Just last weekend. 14 people were articulate the goals that lift people out of killed in gun violence and more than 100 their petty preoccupations, carry them above wounded in Chicago. One of the victims the conflicts that tear a society apart and was a 3-year-o!d boy who was shot by a unite them in pursuit of objectives w orthy of stray bullet intended for his father. Where is their best efforts.” the outrage over an innocent victim in a city 1 long for the leaders of my lime, FDR, that has become a war zone? Churchill, Einstein, Gandhi, Kennedy, In other major cities, shootings and kill­ Reagan and Martin Luther King Jr. They ings also are increasing while many angry showed us the way by trying to convince us protesters are focusing their anger under lhe we can be greater than we are. "Defund lhe Cops” slogan. Where’s the When will we ever leant? leadership? Where’s the leader who should be helping people of all colors and econom­ ic situations to understand that, yes, change is needed, but it’s thc police who keep the peace? Sure, there are some bad apples among 60,000-plus police officers across the country, and policies and procedures need to be instituted to eliminate them. In their anger over injustice, protestors should not be destroying safe communities but, rather, calling for ways to improve them. Fringe movements coming from the far left and far right are taking advantage of Fred Jacobs, CEO, these peaceful protests and assuming con­ J-Ad Graphics Inc. trol of our cities, looting and burning stores The Hastings BcUUiei* Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 pub!>shodby... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Nows and press releases: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising: ads@j-adgraph:cs com Frederic Jacobs • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Publisher & CEO Hank Schuuring m“”gZo cInG,epn!'eld ________________ Jennie YonkCe?"eenE9leslon CFO • NEWSROOM• Rebecca Pierce (Editor) Kalhy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer (Sports Editor) <>r Greg Chandler Taylor Owens 555 Per year elsewhere ' �Sheriff not mentioned in ^totion haVe so far upheld GoV’ executive orders 7CnC>' P°Wcr 10 Pn)duce ic The IJ- i dunnP tbtt COVID pandem- The Fm 1KrV<-ncy orders by the governor; of 19jT gfntcy p°wers of the Governor Act of 107 a tl 110 Emergency Management Act ; R* COUrts have ruled that thc govers acting lawfully under these acts. th. <)nlrat.v to the statement by Mr. Funke. e>c acts specifically state the emergency VotT "haVC the force of bw” Whi,e thc o Act requires the approval of the lo?ls atUrc f°r ,besc emergency powers, the , n < AU does noL And lhe 1976 Acl sPecifl‘ v'ally slates “this act shall not Ik* construed to ••• limit, modify, or abridge the authority of the governor io pax'laim a slate of emergency Pursuant to Act No. 302 of lhe Public Acts of 1945.” The first set of emergency orders were pronounced under the 1976 Act. Currently lhe governor is using the 1945 Act. The 7-0 ruling by the Michigan Slate Supreme Court Funke mentioned does not invalidate these emergency powers h was very specific in stating only that the Anneals Court acted hastily in ordering iln Owmo barber to close his shop and lose his license immediately. They ruled that the punishments ordered by the State were excessive and could not be imposed peremptorily and referred thc case back to a lower court. Funke and Sheriff Leaf have both asserted that sheriffs are the ultimate authority to determine constitutional law. Tins is prepos­ terous. The ultimate law of the United States is lhe Constitution of the United States. It creates and gives authority to the legislative, executive and judicial branches of the federal government. The won! "shcrifT’ does not appear in the U.S. Constitution. Funke mentions a Supreme Court decision without citation he says “ruled that sheriffs were not obligated and could refuse to enforce any law not reserved by the federal govern­ ment under thc I Oth Amendment.” I presume he is referring to the ruling that the part of the “Brady Bill” mandating local authorities must conduct background checks on gun purchas­ ers was unconstitutional. That decision did declare that the federal government could not commandeer the local police to enforce feder­ al law, but it did not free them from an obliga­ tion to enforce state law. Memorable encounter with gypsy moths To the editor: The article on Page 11 of the June IS Hastings Banner regarding gypsy moth cater­ pillars staled: “The gypsy moth is an invasive species that caused widespread defoliation in lhe state from the mid-1980s to lhe carlv 1990s,” In the summer of 1961, while a college student, I worked for the USDA setting traps to determine if a prior gypsy moth infestation had been eliminated. (I was advised that gypsy moth infestations had been in Michigan since, at least, the 1950's.) If no moths were found that summer. t/i‘e survey program would bddkcd'rftinW’^,K”I I.VQ'I'H: Jl’.Hb, . ■ 'irU Pae,* 5 MANAGER, continued from page 1 —------- There have been s including the articlcs >» the media, the governor’s enicL ’, !he legitimacy of of the Barry Coumysh2;^eni,nd'!'crifh‘ ignore these otders T any c,tizcns to There also have ho. , the Banner about o un ctlcrs to the editor of Thomas Funke h,S’ ™°St Gently one by “constitutional she^?ing lhc concePr of W about what is ^he iV^0 K”3’ Whilnicrs0 Banner — Thursday, June 25 2020 The I found gypsy moths near Leslie, so the program was continued and the area was aeri­ al sprayed with DDT. Apparently, when lhe area was sprayed lhe following spring, winds carried lhe spray to dairy cattle grazing areas. Dairy fanners in the area had to dump milk because of lhe contamination. During the summer of 1962, the USD/X sent me back into the area to confirm that the spraying had been successful. Needless to say, I was not very popular with the dairy farmers! Janies A. Rowe. Gun Lake i (write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: •All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of ‘cards of thanks" will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. The 10th A^pX ">e space and a summer farmers’ market,” she wrote in her email. In Blissfield. Rayl wrote a grant to thc State ol Michigan, that was awarded to hire a consultant to create a downtown district recognized on the U.S. Park Service’s National Registry of Historic Places. When the Middleville council did its evaluation of the three finalists who interviewed for the manager’s job June 9, three members - Pullen. Ronning and Trustee Amanda Fisk - gave Rayl their top ranking. “I think she had a lot of great experience,” Ronning .said at that meeting. “I think she understood grant writing, I think she understood economic development, I think she understood the [zoning board of appeals). I think she has a good ground about herself.” Three other council members gave their top vote to Ripley, while Trustee Phil Van Noord initially showed support for Mark Borden, former city manager of Carson City, who was the other finalist interviewed. But when Van Noord switched his support to Ripley, the rest of the council followed, leading to a unanimous vote to olTcr Ripley the job. Rayl will start al a salary of $68,000 in her new position, with her salary to increase by $1,000 once she completes her 90-day U.S. Constitution say-** (|le c ”°l delegated to the United SwK?he States'a^"lu,ion> nor prohibited by it10 1 n. or t ’aru reserved to lhe States respective^ '»-be peoplc.. No special authority r. . Ol|ttty sheriffs. Michigan Sheriffs der r authority from the Michigan State on, specifically C The Barty County Sh«"nHakes the follow, ing oath: "I do sole ear (or affirm) that I will support »,e ”nsJl-Ulion of the United States and.11,hf‘i.hf"?"u'io" of this state, and that I will 1) discharge the duties of the office olncc°rding to lhe best of my ability- N° 0 affirmation, or any religious test s ‘ . be required as a qualification for any 1 e Or public trust.” z\nd so lhe Barry C?un y sheriff must fol­ low the U.S. and MicW1” constitutions. The sheriff has sworn to support the laws which have been created by the cgis|allln. «n accor_ dance with the Michigan Ol>stilution. includ­ ing the Emergency Powcb of (he Governor Acl. He has stated erroneously that the Brady decision applies to his o Migation to enforce Michigan law. It is quite reasonable that giVcn t|lc limited resources available to the sheriff, his depart­ ment may have to exercise some discretion as to when and how lhe various laws must be cnforced. But there is no question that under both the Constitutions ol the United States and the State of Michigan, the sheriff and Mr. Funke and thc Owosso barber must obey the laws of the United States and the Slate of Michigan. Patricia Rayl probationary period. Pullen said. Rayl holds a bachelor of arts degree in general science and a master’s degree in public administration, both from Eastern Michigan University. GUEST COMMENTARY Governors nursing home policy a tragedy State Sen. John Bizon Residents across the nation and our state are suffering as wc continue to battle the deadliest global pandemic in more than a hun­ dred years. When COVID-19 first began to appear in ihe United States, one of the few things wc knew about the disease among the many unknowns was that it was much more danger­ ous for thc elderly than for any other popula­ tion group. That is one reason that on March 13,2020, the national Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued thc document “Guidance for Infection Control and Prevention of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Nursing Homes.” The document provided a plan for stales to follow when trying to control outbreaks of coronavirus in nursing homes and long-term care facilities. CMS understands that nursing homes are not hospitals, and they are not designed to provide the type of care necessary' for COVID19 patients. And with a vulnerable population, nursing homes certainly are not an appropri­ ate place to house patients with lhe disease. Just over a month later, on April 15, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued Executive Order 2020-50. requiring certain nursing homes to care for COVID-19-affectcd residents — despite the risk to other nursing home resi­ dents. This shocking order by the governor direct­ ly contradicted our knowledge of the disease, clear medical evidence and the guidance of our health experts. And her decision has had tragic conse­ quences. After her executive order in mid-April, several requests were made to lhe Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and lhe Whitmer administration to release important nursing facility data — including data regarding deaths — related to how COVID-19 was affecting these facilities. Il wasn’t until June 15 that the state finally Dr. Kenneth M. Komhciser, Prairieville Township Check out potential buyers before selling timber 1 To the editor: . ■ \ Woodlot owners should beware of individuals approaching/iiem to buy walnut trees. In February , a 16g buyer stopped by and asked if I wanted tn sell some walnut trees. I was in the niiddle.bf remodeling our home to make it handicajped accessible for my wife so I figured I qould use the money and 1 signed a contract to sell five trees. Luckily. I did not sell more. The individual cut and look the trees, but never paid for them. Twelve different times over the past four months, he said he would deliver pay meat, but never showed up. When I could get him to answer his phone, he always had an excuse for not having the money, and he no longer returns my phone calls. If I had done an internet search of this individual’s name and lhe word "logger,” I would have seen the news reports about him This individual said he had made mistakes and learned his lesson, yet he continues to steal from folks. It looks like I will have to go through the hassle of going to court to try to get my money now. Property owners should research individu­ als or, better yet. hire a registered consulting forester if planning to sell timber. released lhe data and wc learned what a disas­ ter thc Whitmer policy had been./Xccording to lhe data, more than 1.900 deaths from COVID-19 had occurred to that point in nurs­ ing homes. This is more than a third of all Michigan deaths from the disease, but even this number may very well be underreported, since it does noi include other long-term care facilities, such as homes for ihe aged, facilities that house seniors and the disabled, and other assisted living centers. If the governor had chosen to release this data earlier, when asked, a much better response to the crisis could have been crafted and hundreds of deaths could have been pre­ vented. • Recently my colleague SerkPeler J.Lucuki ' introduced a bill to prohibit the transfer ofI people who have COV1D-J9 into lhe suzidr : long-term care facilities. The bill also would require the establish­ ment of a dedicated facility in each health care region of thc state to help take care of individuals while they recuperate before returning to a nursing home upon testing neg­ ative. As a practicing physician for more than 40 years and as lhe current chairman of the Senate Families, Seniors, and Veterans Committee, I wholeheartedly support Senate Bill 956, which will enable infected patients to be isolated from the at-risk elderly popula­ tions and minimize exposure to staff at facili­ ties with elderly populations. Sen. Lucido’s legislation will fix many of the problems with the governor’s policy and protect vulnerable seniors and staff. It will allow care workers to focus on lhe contain­ ment of the coronavirus and safely of their workers. We cannot undo the damage that has already been done. But we should do all we can to help prevent further needless deaths. State Sen. John Bi:on. R-Battle Creek, rep­ resents Michigan's 19th District, which includes Barry. Calhoun and Ionia counties. introducing Dave Timmerman, Lake Odessa AT&TtV gg All your favorite entertainment, together in 01 indudmg; UveTV & Sports, On Detnai (Know Your Legislators: MICHAEL KINNEY PLUMBING access to H3O Net fax. PandcM CALLy^' AT&TD**1* Tod«i H moi HA! 1-866-626-0002 Licensed Master Plumber Licensed Journeyman Plumber Michigan Legislature rmtrhpn Whitmer, Democrat. P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Governor Wretch .335-7858 (Constituent Services). caj|ev Republican, 87th District (All of Barry Countv) NP.1191 House Of(jce 8ui|ding. Phone (517) 373-340U, State Representatrve Michigan House o New construction, remodel, repair, drain cleaning. BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEATERS Same Day Installation Office (269) 948-2248 Mobjle (269) 838-5112 fl pg842 e.mai|: julioCalley@house.mi.gov 48933. Phone (517) 3/3 ■ Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517State Senator Dr. Jonn ’ ’oig Emai|: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov h c 373-2426 or toll-free, 8a5'„ 3qo36. Lansing Ml 48909. mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. box . many colors, good selection - Thunks for your patience - U S. Senate < crat 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. Y 20SVo'o^net202)2^-^2n ccrII Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510- Tray Tor Our flatten UULSTiONS: ASK Ui»- E State St. Hasting < 945-9673 9150110 M,Ch'9an Sl,e° 902 456-1111- Capitol Information line for Congress O?[N WzvLr. rxlif OAnSJojw; Satizdny U President's cornment,n4_3l2i. and the Senate: 1-202-^ ---- —71 Quilt Backings phone (616) 451-8383. Peters Democrat. 2 RusseSena R Fed0ra| Buildingi ^ptone (248) Rapids. Mich. 49503-2313. phone (616) 233­ Hills lo Celebrate 50t/i Mding Afindrefsa^ 108” IIS House of Representatives • 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Justin Amash, Independe . 20515.2203. phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225. Office Building, Washington, (NW Sui|e 460, Grand Rapids Mjch 4g503 5144. District office: llOMicnig » #8110376 ck Insured J pr>« ^hdst Cleaners Pick-Up Station Harold and Julia Hill will be celebrating 50 years of marriage on June 27, 2020. Looking at you has taught us that true love does exist. Your love for each other and out family brings joy to our hearts and we are so grateful that we have you as our parents We Love you Mom and Dad! If you'd like to help us celebrate, you can mail a card to: 100 Drake Rd Dowling. Ml 49050. .i �Page 6 — Thursday, June 25. 2020 — The Hastings Ba one1 Debra Jean Rhoades Gerald E, Little James Edward Simington. age 66, of 20' 'H)20PaSSCd away uncxPcctcdly t)n Jl,ne Gerald Edward Lyttle, age S6 of Hastings, passed away on June 20. 2020 at Glenn Arbor Hospice Residence. Gerald was bom on May 29 193-1 in Athens, the son of Lloyd and Juanita (Jackson) Lyttle. A veteran. Gerald proudly served his country m the United States Armv. Gerald was employed by Oliver Equipment for four years and then Hastings Manufacturing for 32 years before retiring m 1993. He thoroughly enjoyed his retirement. In his younger years. Gerald enjoyed coon hunting. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, feeding hummingbirds, antique engines and tractors, and spending time up north at his cabin in Dublin. Most of all, Gerald loved his family and spent as much time as he could with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Gerald is survived by children, Robert (Cheryl) Lyttle, Laura (Luis) Torres, and Lisa (Wes) Thompson; seven grandchildren, seven great grandchildren: sister. Joan (Jack) Green; special friend. Lx>is Slater, and several nieces and nephews. Gerald was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Barbara Lyttle; infant son, Phillip Lyttle: infant daughter. Phyliss Lyttle: grandson, Jerry Torres: brothers, Gordon Lyttle. Gary Lyttle, and Gale Lyttle: sisters. Joyce Patterson; and son-in-law. Willie Murray. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Burial will take place at Hillside Cemetery. Memorial contributions to a charity of one’s choice will be appreciated. Please visit www.willVtamsgoresfuneral.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Gerald’s family. Debra Jean Rhoades, age 63. of Hastings, unexpectedly passed away on June 15, 2020 peacefully in her sleep. Debbie was bom on March 23. 1957 in Grand Rapids, the daughter of Raymond and Donna (Goodell) Rhoades. Debbie loved the lake life, fishing and boating. She also enjoyed bird watching, flowers, playing cards, and social networking. Most importantly, Debbie loved spending lime with family, especially her grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Debbie is survived by her mother, Donna: husband, Thomas Casncr; children, Carrie Jean McIntyre, Chassidy Engler, Michael (Vicki) Casncr, and Elizabeth (Robert) McIntyre: grandchildren. Austin Caleb St. Clair, Zackary Whitney, and Tracy Whitney; great grandchildren. Charlotte Whitney and — Benjeman Miller; siblings. Cathy (Patrick) Caporossi, Pamela (Kenneth) Strosinski. Rodney (Kathy) Rhoades, Taminie (Craig) Blank, and Benjamin Rhoades, and several nieces and nephews. Debbie was preceded in death by her father, and husband, Tracy Engler. A memorial celebration was held Saturday, June 20. 2020, at lhe Hastings Holiday Inn Express meeting room. Memorial contributions to a local animal organization of one’s choice will be appreciated. Please visit www. williamsgoresfuneral .com to share a memory or- to leave a condolence message for Debbie’s family, Worship Together ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. 269-945­ 4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip. Mass 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Mass 8 and 11 a.m. Sunday. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m Sunday Schoo] for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p m. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30-8 p.m., AWANA (Children Kindergarten-5th Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 765. (comer of Milo Rd. & S. M­ 43), Delton, Ml 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool. (517) 204­ 9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11:30am. Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6.30 to 7:30 pm. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel­ chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m Youth activities: call for information. CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616-690-8609. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E Slate Rd., P.O. Box 273. Hastings. Ml 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 I^ccy Road. Dowling. MI 49050. Pastor. Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of Who jesus Is To Thc World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy.. P.O. Box 8, Hastings. Telephone 269-945-9121. Email hask fmcfo gmail.com. Website: tt^w.hasiingsfrcemdhodiM. com. Pastor Brian Teed, Stu­ dent Ministries Director, Emma Miller, Worship Director. Mar­ tha Stoctzel. Sunday Morning Worship: 9am and 10:30 a.m. beginning June 21 until further notice. Due to thc current health crisis, our nursery is temporari­ ly closed and we are temporari­ ly suspending all Children's ministries. Our church sanctu­ ary is set up for social distanc­ ing. Please keep your family together during the worship service. Wc arc a multi-genera­ tional church family and under­ stand that while this could mean outbursts* or pot­ ty-breaks, we are not inconve­ nienced by your little one. In an effort to help you, wc are pro­ viding weekly activity bags for each child. These bags are to be Liken home or disposed of after each use. For more information contact lhe church. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, thp churches and these local businesses: Donald Freeman passed »way suddenly °n June 20, 2020 in the arms of his wife whom he loved deeply. Don was born in Allegan on March 8, 1950 to Donald Mi||cr Freeman and Marian (Bush) Freeman. |je attended Wayland Highschool, graduating in 1968. Don then attended Michigan State University for two years, leaving to nune (0 Colorado with friends. He lived in Boulder and Steamboat Springs for 18 years before moving back to Michigan. While in Colorado, Don enjoyed skiing, hunting, and lhe outdoors. After working a few short-term jobs in Colorado, he joined the pipefitter's union, where he became a journeyman pipefitter and master plumber. He eventually started his own business which he ran for several years. Upon his return to Michigan he joined Pipefitter’s Local 333 where he worked for many years. After retirement from Local 333, he continued to work as a consultant for Consumer’s Energy at various powerplants and hydroelectric dams,. Shortly after returning to Michigan Don went on a blind date with thc woman that would become, the love of his life. Susan Cuyler, set up by his longtime friend. Gary and Janice Kotrba. Donald and Susan were married on December 9, 1989. Don and Susan’s love grew until thc day that Don passed. They celebrated.(heir.engagement every year on Thanking with.roses and .champagne. Ev^i vih* liter illness Don arranged to surprise Susan on Thanksgiving. Don was an awl sailor and cowboy who loved to share Hs passions with his family and friends. Htf raised and rode horses and taught others to ride. He hosted an annual elk hunting camp. He enjoyed time on his sailboats with his family. He kwed to cook and host famjly breakfasts and dinners. And he enjoyed traveling with Susan? Don was diagnosed with ALS in 2018. and although it /reduced his mobility it never reduced his’love for Susan, his family, or life. He continued to enjoy visits with family and friends. Don is survived by his loving wife, Susan Freeman: sisters, Bonnie Opperman. Elaine Patten, and Linda (Dick) Groendyke, and his brother. Rodger (Adele) Freeman and many nieces and nephews; his son, Jade Freeman; daughters, Sierra Pyle, Kristi (Corey) Holm, and Kelley Cuyler (fianed Joe Czapla); grandchildren, Sophie Freeman. Riley Freeman. Landon Freeman. Jaizah Pyle, Rorak Pyle, Caleb Cuyler, Joshua Wheeler. Jordan Wheeler, Dylan Wheeler, Victoria (DilliaUZU s. Corey Holm Jr, Rogclio (Aman ar. Farrah (Dylan) Bishop, Casey Churchill; great-grandchildren. Oliver Cuyler and Wyatt Bishop. Visitation will be held at Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings on Friday. June 26. 2020 from 1 to 3 and 5 to 7 p.m. t\ celebration of life will be held 0,1 Saturday, June 27.2020 fmm 1 to 4 P nJ- at his home, The Freeman compound. Ihe family asks that you bring a lawn chair and wear a Hawaiian shirt if you have one. In lieu of (lowers, donations can be made to for final expenses or to Susan Mast AI^ foundation. GET AU THE NEWS OF COUNTY! BaRBy Subscribeto tbe Ha$tin9s banner* 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 Call 269-945-9554 for more information James was bom on August 28. 1953 in a amazoo. the son of Thomas Simington and Alice Hale) Blecker. James was a very accomplished jeweler, traveling the United States and owned a jewelry business w ith bis son from 1999 to 2012. James was an avid ou doorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing and loved to tell stories about his adventures. James was very proud of his family and enjoyed talking about his kids to anyone. He enjoyed spending time with his favorite companion. BoBo. James is survived by his wife of 43 years. Janet E. Simington; mother. Alice Bleeker; children Renae (Randy) Anson, Alicia (Kevin) Graham, and James Truman (Kady A.) Simington; grandchildren. Mason Leonard, Sydney Leonard, Megan Simington, James Truman Simineton Jr.. Willow Siminglon; Spencer Graham, Natalee (Princess) Graham; and four step grandchildren; great grandchildren, Rowan Moore and Morrison Hannon; brothers, Randy Siminglon, Bob Simington, and Jeff (Susan) Simington; sisters, Kelly (Rob) Martin and Robin (Gary) Bleeker, special friends, Ryan and Kim Ivans and Little Rex; several nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog, BoBo. Janies was preceded in death by his fathers, Thomas Simington and Truman Bleeker; and brother, Brian Bleeker. A celebration of life service will be held at a later date. The family would like to extend special thanks to Grove Street Cafe and all of his friends there. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuncraL com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for James’s family. Carrol Howard Carpenter, age v Delton, passed away on June 16. 20.0 at Spectrum Butterworth HospitalCarrol was bom on September 23.1948 m Marshall, the son of John and Eldora (Granger) Carpenter. Carrol was a dairy farmer for 20 years before founding Carpenter Gravel in 1987 and ownmg lhe business for 30 years until his retirement. Carrol had a passion for fishing. He enjoyed hosting community tish fries and donated time and fish to many projec . e was known as the brain of Delton by many in the community, he loved tinkering and helping others. . Carrol enjoyed wintering in Florida tor many years, making many friends along the way. ... . Carrol is survived by his significant other, Cora Christie; children. lodd (Heidi) Carpenter. Troy (Suzi) Carpenter, and Tammy (Stan Jr.) Norris; his children s mother, Brenda Moore: step children, /Xngela (Bill) Chappell. Joni Fuller, and Rickie Gates: grandchildren, Audrey, Cassie, Troy, Brandon. Kevin. Shelby. Kegan, Brady, and Jakson; great granddaughter, Lorreta; brothers. John (Barb) Carpenter and David (Beth) Carpenter, several nieces and nephews; his dog, Colby; and many friends. Carrol was preceded in death by his parents; son, Travis Carpenter; and brother. Don Carpenter. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Burial will take place in Banfield Cemetery. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral. com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Carrol’s family. Deloris Jean Dipp Deloris Jean (Owen) Dipp passed away on Monday, June 22,2020. She was born in Hastings, on September 23, 1931 to George and Florence (Hawkins) Owen. She was the oldest of five siblings. Her growing up years were spent in Hastings, hi her sophomore year of high school, the family moved to Freeport, where she spent the rest of her life. Deloris graduated from Freeport High School in 1949 and attended Barry County Normal School to become an elementary school teacher. She loved teaching and all the relationship and friendships she made during a career that lasted 36 years. She started teaching in one room schools in Barr)' County and ended her teaching career in 1986 for Hastings Area Schools. On June 10. 1950, she married the love of her life, Ernest Dipp, and together they farmed over 150 acres, raised two children, and traveled the world. Delons is now reunited with her dear Ernest; her beloved grandmother. Mary Hawkins; her parents. George and Florence (Hawkins) Owen; her brothers and their wives, Albert and Marian Owen, Tom and Imagene Owen, Ron Owen; her in-laws, William and Gladys (Pinney) Dipp, William and Maxine Dipp. Emily Mokma, Stu Boonenberg, Clare and Marian Dipp, Lorelle Dipp, and her very best friends of all time. Clifford and Lois Andnis Those living to carry on her memory’ and the stories she told are her children. Frank and Beverly (Dipp) Baron of Caledonia, and Bryan Dipp and Mary' Walton of Freeport; grandchildren, Christopher and Angela (Dipp) Miller of Grand Rapids, and Michael and Jennifer (Walsh) Baron of Middleville; great grandchildren are Makenzie Miller and Lilianna, Jeremy and Kaitlynn Baron; sisters -in-law, Valerie Owen and Evelyn Boonenberg. Special and much loved friends, Joyce Feltzer, Cheryl Gumsey, the Andrus kids, and the Hope Church of the Brethren Quilters. Deloris was very proud of the fact that she lived with diabetes for over 60 years. We are thankful to Dr. Slewart, and Dr. VanderLaan for their many years of care and friendship. These two men always found a way to help her understand that their ideas were in her best interest, and thanks to them she really did live a long and fruitful life. Shortly after retiring from teaching, Mom had the opportunity to sene as Carlton Township Clerk. It was a good transition job as she entered into retirement. Deloris loved being a teacher whether it was in the classroom, with a pack of Cub Scouts, or a group of visitors at the Freeport Historical Museum. In her retirement, she formed the Freeport Historical Society, and later was one of the founding members of the Freeport Historical Museum. She poured her heart into the museum with the goal of making it a showpiece for the community. In her retirement, Deloris took up quilting. She had made her children’s clothing as a mother, but in her retirement, she loved the challenge of creating quilts and then handquilting or machine quilting them. She kept family and friends supplied in quilts for untold Christmases, weddings, and babies. She was also responsible for supplying over 100 quilts to the Sunny Crest Boys Home in Sunfield. Due to the Michigan Governor's Executive Order limiting gatherings, a visttatton and memorial service for Deloris will be scheduled at a later date at Ginbach Funeral Home 328 S. Broadway Street. Hastings, Ml 49058. * Memorial contributions may be made to he Freeport Historical Society and to the Hope < hurch of the Brethren Quilters, thrnujh fif™ “Pve h;ld a 8«at ride See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing business cards, invitations and all your printing needs J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits •' ’ ‘ • ■ �* 011 w w The Hastings Banner — Thursday, June 25, 2020 — Pngo Michigan workers stw' yaiting for unemployment checks .... . . __ UIA hopes to clear backlog by July 4 Barbara Ann Bauchman Gualdoni. age 77. passed way Friday, March 27. 2020 at her residence in Murphysboro, IL. She was born July 18. 1942 in Hastings to Homer and Mary Jane Bauchman. After her mother s early death, Homer - married Valborg Brown, blending two young families of four Brown children and four Bauchman children and eventually two adopted sons. Barb was a member of the 1960 Hastings High School Graduating Class. She served on lhe Girls Ixague Board. Tri-Hi Board. J-Hop Committee, Treasurer and Secretary of her class. Pep Club member and the Girls Athletic Association. She enjoyed her many friendships over the years with her classmates and attending class reunions and Hastings High School Alumni Banquets. As the officer manager at Southern Illinois University. Carbondale. IL, she worked for 31 years before her retirement. She was a member of St. Andrew Catholic Church in Murphysboro, where she was a quilter with St. Andrew Quilters, a member of St. Andrew Alter Society’, and a member of lhe St. Joseph Hospital Auxiliary. She was also a member of The Bridge Club for more than 50 years. Married to Elbert Gualdoni on August 12. 1961 in Tampa. FL. he preceded Barb in death on May 4. 2014. Their home in Murphysboro displayed Barb’s love of angels, glassware, china and antiques plus the expertise of Bert’s cooking. Barb and Bert enjoyed for many years their pontoon boat for weekend outings with family and triends. They also enjoyed casino outings and visiting friends and family across the United States, with Hastings Summerfest as one of their favorites. Barb continued her love of traveling with her daughters on Caribbean and Alaskan cruises. Barb is survived by two daughters and their husbands. Anita Gualdoni KohlfeldBnimmel and Steven Brummet of St. Charles, MO and Denise Gualdoni Stoen and Dalen Stoen of Lake Stevens. WA; three grandchildren. Valerie and Keith Murphy. Natalie and Andrew Merrifield. Dylan Kohlfeld and two great grandchildren, Alana Murphy and Jessica Murphy, three brothers, James and Donna Brown of Hastings. Tom and Midge Brown of Danbury, CT, Michael Bauchman of St. Louis. MI. and one sister, Trudy Bauchman Parker of Florida And many nieces, nephews and cousins in Missouri. Michigan, Washington. California, Tennessee, and Canada. Barb was preceded in death by her parents: two sisters. Marilyn Bauchman 'Fumes and Mary Jane Brown Stralcy, and three brothers. James Bauchman. David Bauchman, and Robert Brown. Private services have been conducted for the family. A celebration of life memorial mass will be at a future date. Local fireworks still planned Like most events in 2020. COVID-19 has altered plans for area fireworks dis­ plays. The Gun Lake Protective Association, which draws thousands of people to the slate park, has postponed its fireworks display until Sept. 5. I The 2020 Lake Odessa Fair was can­ celed, but the fireworks show will go on. Fireworks are planned to begin Saturday, June 27, around 10 p.m. The pyrotechnic display normally concludes the communi­ ty fair. Independence Day fireworks in lhe area will begin July 3. The Algonquin Lake Community Association will begin its show at approx­ imately 10 p.m. Friday. July 3. Fireworks are launched from the island. Many lake residents watch the show from their homes or boats, but the show can be viewed from area roadways. The Middleville Lions Club will spon­ sor fireworks launched al dusk from lhe AYSO soccer fields near the middle school Saturday, July 4, Parking is available at the nearby schools. Caledonia, which normally hosts an Independence Day celebration, will have fireworks display at dusk July 4. The fire­ works will be shot off from fields next to lhe Cal-Plex recreaiional complex. They can be viewed from Duncan Lake Middle School, the Cal-Plex or Holy Family Catholic Church. The church will host a canned food drive lor its community f<xxl pantry that night. Guests watching die show from the church property are encour­ aged to bring a donation. 11.824 filed lx-,0"r?j'b|A sl><>kc”'rcla*,ed 10 lhe fraud pre*- u' J“son Moon. . . .we agcncy p|a. For those e'1011" ilt|y 4. e* plain ’ *•» c‘>hcr pay out benefit’ > jceni them tln2 ty to the applic;1"1 nlpis to rea[)"hMc,,abto lieauscnutllil’l'11"'"1 " lhc"> l»ve Bridge Magazine Nearly 12 JXX) Michigan workers who filed for jobless benefits between March 15 and , lWU1 JUOflOo o-„ . May 1 have yet to be paid or denied, but the failed. ,\s ol Tuesday the *ith slate unemployment agency said hicsday it active account5 point ,U1 paid intends to clear that backlog by July 4. them benefits m K‘’ uCd identity nc^ed 10 Those 11.824 claims, which have already go through an taken seven weeks or more to process, repre­ to unlock accounts t of the fraud sent almost 10 percent of lhe 123,959 appli­ pnibc. cn far “beared” cants currently awaiting eligibility determina­ .Tk' ',a,c h!U^'Moo"X TOUghly tions from the Michigan Unemployment 220.000 active acco j «u. The agency has ;hc %^t UOJXX) Insurance Agency. “Our goal is to have every unemployment new claimants. 1*“ qua|if *ho have claim tiled before May 1st resolved by the not yet been hc s* 'hey are end of next week.” UIA Director Steve Gray able to prost th , Iie\V . < itns data one said in a statement. “While most of our eligi­ , The state released in^^0,!.0011 ovcr ble workers have been paid, thc unprecedent­ day before Gray. »" ed number of claims during this crisis means the unemployment 2019, is set » Legislature’s that there are still teqs of thousands of real to testify before the Michiganders needing one-on-one review’ to Joint Select Commit'* °n the COV1D-19 pay benefits.’’ “'Rep. Ma» Hall.Jhairsthcpanc|t The unemployment agency says Michigan ( P ymenl agcncy has paid out $14.3 billion in jobless benefits Iasi week accused lhe to more than 2.1 million claimants since mid­ of providing inconsts ° lawmakers. March, when a global pandemic and govern­ The Marshall Republic*" « d not immediately mment Tuesday ment lockdown forced business closures and respond to a request » rocked the economy. afternoon. ,. Gray also testified bel°r ‘he committee on The process has not been easy for many jobless Michiganders, who have struggled to May 13, but legislators are calling him back navigate online and call center systems that as they urge the state to rcopen unemploy­ have been overwhelmed by record claim vol­ ment offices for residents who continue to struggle with online and phone systems. umes. The Michigan Unemployment Insurance Others who successfully applied have had their accounts suspended amid an ongoing Agency closed office lobbies on March |8. investigation into a global fraud ring after two days after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed scammers targeted Michigan and other states an executive order expanding eligibility and offering enhanced federal benefits during the access to jobless benefit5The federal government increased unem­ public health crisis. Overall. 123.959 Michigan claimants have ployment benefits in late March, providing never been paid. Of those, 90,474 have not yet workers who lost jobs with $600 a week in provided extra identity verification requested extra pandemic unemployment assistance by the state because of the fraud probe. through July 25. “We know COVID-19 continues to cause Another 33.485 have nol been paid due to “other non-monetary issues,” according to fear and frustration for these families and we are working around the clock (to] enhance our agency figures. Most of the oldest unresolved claims - the LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedents Estate ALE NO. 20-28540-DE Estate of Lynda Lee Misak. Date of birth: 01/14/43. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: Tho decedent. Lynda Lee Misak, d>ed 05/18/20. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented Elsie Sage to celebrate 96 years She was bom on July 8, 1924 and graduated from Hastings High School in 1942. She has lived in the Hastings Area for most of her life. She has enjoyed playing the piano and the organ for local organizations for many many years. Please help her celebrate with a card showcri send cards to 904 W. Walnut St., Hastings, MI 49058. She so enjoyed all of your well wishes last year. to David H. Tripp, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 V/. Court Street, Ste. 302. Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 0/22J2020 David H. Tnpp P29290 202 S. Broadway ' Hastings, Ml 49058 269-948-2900 David H. Tripp 202 S. Broadway Hastings, Ml 49058 143025 269-948-2900 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Thist Estate TO ALL CREDITORS: Jeanne J. Hostetler (dob: 11/29/1929). TAKE NOTICE: The decedent, Jeanne J. Hostetler, whose last Barry County address was 7601 Bayne Road, Woodland, Ml 48897, died January 5,2020 Creditors are notified that all claims against the Marriage licenses decedent will be forever barred unless presented to Julia L Bauman, Roger A Hostetler, and Darlene S. King f/k/a Darlene S. McIntosh, as Co-Trustees ol the James W. and Jeanne J. Hostetler Trust dated November 17, 2010, within 4 months from the date of publication of Erin Michelle Goggins, Hastings and Jason Daniel Slaughter, Gunnison,CO Martin Donald Lampheart, Belmont and Yoleidis Besse, Delton Charlene Jo Everitt, Bellevue and Garelt Micheal Whitcomb. Bellevue Harold James Steffey, Delton and Renee Babette Laurin, Delton Colleen Marie White, Madison, W1 and Perrin John Vandervecn, Madison. Wl Seth Allen Thornton, Middleville and Allyssa Ashley Vennerris, Hudsonville Joshua Aaron Lawrence Taranto, Nashville and Frances Catherine Scrafano, Nashville Floyd Adam Fender, Nashville and Doris Ann Marie Sleiitz, Union City Dakota Ronald Arthur Henion. Hastings and Cbrystal Mcrie Boniface, Hastings Jeffrey Allen Sonnervillc, Hastings and Kerry Ann Ryfiak. Hastings Robert Carl Bitgood. Nashville and Mary Lou Bitgo<>d-Nashville Cameron John Ackerman, Kalamazoo and Hanna Claris© Holshouser. Hickory Comers Fli Robert Smics, Caledonia and Katelyn Dawn Buckle, Grand Rapids. Jarett Joseph Ford. Delton and Megan M^nt7/Gra^S?mminel()n, Union City and wSkRich^ Brower.^’0,1 - resources to quickly eliminate lhe remaining hacklog and get every worker thc emergency this notice. Date: June 18,2020 Julia L Bauman, Co-Trustee 4233 N. Lake Rd., Clartdake, Mi 49234 Roger A Hostetler, Co-Trustee 68053 Cherry Ln., Edwardsburg. Ml 49112 Darlene S. King f/k/a Darlene S. McIntosh, Co-Trustee 901 Maycroft St., Lansing, Ml 48917 Steven E. Makulski (P72979) 404 S. Jackson St., P.O. Box 55, Jackson, Ml 49204-0055 142942 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate hSnO.20-2B541.de Estate of Joan E. Tagga* D3t0 of 12/31/40. TO ALL CREDITORS: „c. NOTICE TO CREDITORS- ' 0 decedent. Joan E. Taggart, died 05/24/2020. Credicrs of the decedent & f^ied that all claims against tho estate w.H be fotev* . nod unless presented '<» Rebecca ftngleka. !<(?*«»«. to to’b ‘ho probate court at 206 v\Jurt Street, Ste. 302, H^tings, Ml 49058 and wittl'h 4 months after the representative Publication of this notice. Date: 6/22/2020 _ David H. Tripp P292W 202 S. Broadway Hastings, Ml 4905® 269-948-2900 Rebecca R-nglek* 6217 Cain Croc-kO^ Freeport, Ml 4932& 269-908 9302 financial assistance they’re entitled to,” Gray said Tuesday. LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN BARRY COUNTY TRIAL COURT FAMILY DIVISION carry out the written orders of the court relative to a statutory duty; NOTICE TO CREDITORS TO ALL CREDITORS. NOTICE TO CREDITORS; The decedent. Joan B. McCullough (date of birth April 19, 1933). Grantor of the Joan B. McCullough Living Trust dated April 6. 2004. who bved a! 7555 South M-66 Hwy., Nashville, Ml 49073 died March 13. 2020. Creditors of lhe decedent are notified that ail claims against the Trust will bo forever barred unless presented Io the current Trustee, Robert M. Eberstein, whose address is 115 Morningside Dnve, Battle Creek. Ml 49015, cr to the attorney for the Trustee. Kathleen F. Cook at 121 South Cochran Ave.. Charlotte, Ml 48813 within 4 months of tho date of publication of this notice. Date: Juno 18. 2020 Law Office of Kathleen F. Cook Kathleen F. Cook P31842 121 S. Cochran Ave. Charlotte. Ml 48813 ' (517)543-7643 • Whether the purpose of tho Friend of tho Court Ads saro being met; STATE OF MICHIGAN PUBLICATION AND NOTICE OF FRIEND OF THE COURT ANNUAL STATUTORY REVIEW REVIEw’of’pERFORMANCE RECORD QEIMEERIENDOfTHE-CQURI ANNUAL Under Mchgan law. the Chief Family Judge annually reviews the performance record of the Friend of the Court. The review will be conducted on or about July 1. 2020. This review is limited by law to the following criteria: •Whether lhe Friend of the Court is guilty of misconduct, neglect of statutory duty, or failure to • Whether the duties of tho Friend of the Court are Doing carried out in a manner that reflects the needs of tho community. Members of the pub'ic may submit wntten comments to tho Chief Family Judge relating to lhese criteria. Send your written comments, with your name and address to. Honorable William M. Doherty Barry County Trial Court. Family Division 206 W. Court Street Hastings, Michigan 49058 PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedents Estate FILE NO. 20-28538-DE Estate of Wayne S. Burden. Date of brth: 08/06/1941. TO ALL CREOfTORS; NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Wayne S. Burden, died 12/12/2019. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims NOTICE TO THE RESIDENTS OF BARRY COUNTY Notice is hereby given that the Barry County Zoning Board of Appeals will conduct a public hearing for the following. Caso Number V-3-2020- Brock Howland (Property Owner) _ ' Location: 1335 West Sheffield Road. Hickory Comers, in Sedion 36 of Barry Township. Purpose: Request a variance to construct a 40x30 detached accessory building 20.7 ft off of tho road right-of-way (the minimum is 50 ft) in the RR (Rural Residential) zoning distnet against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Juba L VanHouten. personal representative, or to both the probate court at 6232 Oakwood Dr., Delton, Michigan 49046 and the persona! representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 6/162020 Robert J. Longstreet P53546 607 N. Broadway Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-3495 Julia L VanHouten 6232 Oakwood Dr. Delton, Michigan 49046 (269)908-7030 142993 MEETING PAT£:July 13, 2020. TIME: 7:00 PM ELAQE: Tyden Center, Community Room, 121 STATE OF MICHIGAN South Church Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 PROBATE COURT Site inspections of the above desenbed property COUNTY OF BARRY will be completed by the Zoning Board of Appeals NOTICE TO CREDITORS members before the hearing. Interested persons Decedent's Estate desiring to present their views upon an appeal, either FILE NO. 20-28461-DE verbally or in writing, will be given the opportunity to Estate of Viriin J. Goforth. Date of birth: 10/20/1929. bo heard at the above mentioned time and place. TO ALL CREDITORS: Any written response may be mailed to the address NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Viriin J. listed below, faxed to (269) 948-4820, or emailed to Goforth, died 06/262019.. Barry County Planning Director James McManus at Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims jmcmanu5@-barrYCQunty.org against the estate will be forever barred unless presented The vanance application is available for public to Gina Wesse'.dyke, personal representative, or to both inspection at the Barry County Planning Department the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Hastings, Ml 220 West State Street Hastings, Michigan 49058, 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months dunng the hours of 8 a.m to 5 p m. Monday - Friday Please call the Barry County Planning Department at '• -arier the date cf publication of this notice. 'Date? 6/17/2020 ....... (269) 945-1290 for further inforrrraVoh: * ’ ' Nathan E. Tagg P68994 The County of Barry will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the 202 South Broadway heanng impaired and audio tapes of printed matenals Hastings, Ml 49058 being considered at the meeting, to individuals with (269)948-2900 disabilities at the meeting/heanng upon ten (10) Gina Wesse.'dyke days notice to tho County of Barry. Ind.viduals with 153 West 24th Street disabilities requinng auxiliary aids or services should Holland. Ml 49423 contact the County of Barry by writing or calling the (616)269-5386 142835 following: Michael Brown. County Administrator, 220 West State Street. Hastings Michigan 49058, (269) NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SAIF 945-1284 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION WE Pamela A Palmer, Barry County Clerk 142855 OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MIUTARY DUTY. Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded by tho foreclosing mortgagee. In that event your Notice is given under section 3212 of tho revised damages. If any. shall be limited solely to return judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, of the bid amount tendered at sale, plus Interest that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE BY ADVERTISEMENT: a sale of the mortgaged premisos, or some part Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised of them, at a public auction sale to the highest judicature act of 1961,1961 PA236, MCL 600.3212, bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of promptly at 1:00 PM. on July 23.2020. The amount them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not tho circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear 1:00 PM, on Thursday, August 13.2020. The amount ownership of tho property. A potential purchaser is due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of encouraged to contact the county register of deeds the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not office or a title insurance company, either of which automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear may charge a fee for this information: ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is Name(s) of tho mortgagors): Nathan Carpenter encouraged to contact the county register of deeds Original Mortgagee. Mortgage Electronic office or a title insurance company, either of which Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE nominee for lender and lender's successors and/ SALE: Default has been made In the conditions or assigns • of a mortgage made by Gloria L Gorman, the Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Caliber Home Mortgagor(s). to Mortgage Electronic Registration ' Loans, Inc. Systems, Inc. as nominee for Plaza Home Mortgage Date of Mortgage: July 12, 2019 Inc., the original Mortgagee, dated January 28,2014, Date of Mortgage Recording: Septembers, 2019 and recorded on January 29.2014, as Instrument No. Amount claimed due on date of notice: 2014-000834, in Barry County Records, Michigan $113,868.72 and last assigned to Lakeview Loan Servicing, Description of tho mortgaged premises: Situated LLC as Assignee, as documented by a Corporate In Township of Carlton, Barry County. Michigan, Assignment of Mortgage dated May 10. 2020, and described as: Commencing 12 rods West of and recorded on May 11, 2020, as Instrument No. the Northeast comer of Section 21, Town 4 North, 2020-004715. in Barry County Records, Michigan, Range 8 West; thence South 13 3/4 rods; thence on which mortgage there is claimed to be duo and West 8 rods; thenco North 13 3/4 rods, thence East owing as of the date of this Notice, tho sum of Forty 8 rods to the place of beginning Nine Thousand Six Hundred Thirty Three and 85/100 Common street address (if any): 1884 E M 4 Dollars ($49,633.85). Said premise is situated at 219 Hwy, Freeport, Ml 49325-9414 N. Stale Street, Nashville, Michigan 49073 In the The redemption period shall De 6 moms Villaoe of NashWIe, Barry County, Michigan, and from the date of such sale, unless deternvnea Is desenbed as: LAND SITUATED IN THE VILLAGE abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.324la, or, OF NASHVILLE, BARRY COUNTY. MICHIGAN: LOT if the subject real property is used for agneu tu 46 OF VILLAGE OF NASHVILLE. ACCORDING TO purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). THE PLAT THEREOF. AS RECORDED IN UBER 1 OF If the property is sold at foreclosure sa e un t PLATS, ON PAGE 10. The redemption period shall Chapter 32 of tho Revised Judicature Act of 19D . bo 6 months (180 Days) from tho date of such sale, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will bo unless determined abandoned in accordance with held responsible to the person who buys MCLA 6003241a, in which case the redemption property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to period sha»l be 30 days from the date of such safe. mortgage holder for damaging the property dun g Pursuant to Chapter 32 of tho Revised Judicature Act of 1961» if the property is sold at foreclosure sale the the redemption period. are a military service borrower will be held responsible to tho person who Attention homeowner: If you period of active duty buys the property at tho mortgage foreclosure sale member on active duty, if your vs ago. or if you have or to the mortgage holder under MCLA 600.3278 has concluded less than 9P been ordered to active duty, please c°f . for damaging the property dunng tho redumption attorney for the party foreclosing the rno 9 9period. ATTENTION HOMEOWNER- If you are a the telephone number stated In this nobco. m litary service member on active duty, if your period of activo duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, This notice Is from a debt collector or if you have been ordered to active duty, please Date of notice: June 18.2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1416760 (06- 18X07-09) 142752 contact Uh? attorney tor the party foreclosing the mortgage at tho te'ephone number stated in this notce Dated: June 16. 2020 For More Information, please call Matthew R. Remharut. Esq Ouintairos. Prieto, Wood i Boyor. P.A. Attorneys for Servicer 255 South Orange Avenue. Suite 900 Orlando, Florida 32801 (855) 287-0240 Matter No. 147633 (06-25X07-161 143019 7 142940 �PaoeB-Thufsdt ■y- June 25, ?020 The Hastings Banner fl look back at the stories and columns on local history In the Hastings Banner turning BflGK THE PAGES < Reunions, graduations and recitals drew crowds in June 1901 07 of lh.e fronl"Pa8c ncws in lhe June 27, 190], Hastings Herald related to students in one way or another. Separate stories highlighted recent graduation ceremonies, a school reunion, and a music recital. Five young ladies and four young gentlemen receive diplomas A tradition prevails in our high school circles that it never rains on the day set for the graduating exercises of the Hastings High School. It seems to be a special dispensation of divine providence that it ,shal1 not rain during the important hours when the happy young graduates of thc HHS celebrate the completion of their course. If it were not so, how could they properly attend to this interesting ceremony and how could their friends witness their triumph, seeing there is not a suitable hall in this city for holding such a function? But last Friday afternoon came near being an exception to the rule. The weather god seemed to have made arrangements for a good hard shower. The atmosphere was sultry, the sky was overcast, and frequent mutterings of thunder were to be heard. But at the last minute, the god of the weather must have bethought himself of what was going on in Temple Park, Hastings, (the area now occupied by Hastings Middle School building and grounds] and changed his plans, so as not to break lhe rule and thus spoil a very important and happy occasion. For not a drop of rain fell to dampen lhe enthusiasm of the occasion or spoil the white dresses and flowers and other adornments of the class and the audience. The stage was erected in a shady spot in lhe beautiful grove south of the school grounds. It was embellished with American flags, the class colors, and the class motto in Latin and English - “Esto quod esse videris," or “Be what thou seemest.’’ Upon lhe stage were seated the class, the high school teachers, members of the board of education, and the orchestra, while in front of it were several hundred interested people. After lhe overture by Troxel’s orchestra. Rev. Mr. Wooden invoked the divine blessing on the exercises. Then “The Song of the Vikings” was very nicely sung by a chorus of little boys under the direction of Miss Sharlot Brumm, teacher of music in the public schools. Miss Emma I. Wightman gave the salutatory in a very effective and graceful speech. Miss Grace M. Zagelmeier followed with the class oration, a well-delivered production on “the monuments we build.” After music by the orchestra, Louis A. Wardell delivered an oration in which he extolled American energy and enterprise in an interesting manner, his theme being "Impossible is Un-American.” John L. Powers took for his subject that rugged and forceful writer, Tolstoi. He predicted that the future has in store a great struggle between Russia and America. tl Music by the orchestra was followed with an oration by Miss Mabel J. Hicks, who took for her inspiration Holmes’ “Chambered Nautilus," and derived from it some effective illustrations of human life. "Etchings from Memory" was the title of a nicely composed and well-delivered effort by Milroy B. Hutchinson. While he was speaking, a large dog created something of a diversion by walking upon thc stage, sniffing around the hands and feet of the speaker and then unconcernedly walking off again. Mr. Hutchinson, however, seemed in no wise disconcerted by this manifestation of canine interest in the proceedings. At this point, lhe exercises were varied with a chorus entitled "Over Hill and Over Dale" by about 30^girlij led by Miss Brumm. The girls sang very nicely. Clayton G. Hinckley, president of the class, showed a capacity to treat public questions of the day in a thoughtful manner and a broad spirit in his discussion of “Our duties toward our colonies.” Finally. Miss Maude L. Carter made it plain that no mistake had been made in choosing her for the valedictory. Not only were her words well-chosen and her theme well-handled, but her delivery of the oration would have done credit to a professional orator. HOPE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING AND PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING TO CONSIDER A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE APPLI­ CATION FOR A MINING OPERATION LOCATED AT 8409 MILLER ROAD. TO* THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF HOPE TOWNSHIP. BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: Notice is hereby given that the Hope Township Planning Commission will hold a meeting and Public Hearing on Thursday, July 16,2020 at 6:30pm at the Hope Township Hall located at 5463 S. M-43 Hwy Hastings, Michigan 49058 within lhe Township. The purpose of the meeting is to receive comments from the public regarding an application bv R Smith & Sons Inc. for a mining operation (sand and gravel) on parcel (07-030-003-00) located at 8409 Miller Road, Delton, MI 49046. Thc property is within the AR Agriculture Residential zoning district. Mining operations are permitted in this district only with Special Exception Use approval by thc Planning Commission and as allowed by Section 4.2 (F) ol the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance. r.1,. TTnnp Township Zoning Ordinance and the application is available for review A copy Ol the Hope Tounsn P^ (Mjd at the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance is also accessible at www.hopetwp. business ours. received from any interested persons by thc Hope Township com. Written co , shj. HqU juring regular business hours up to the lime of the hearing Clerk al the Hope . p|annjng Commission at the hearing. Oral comments and may be furtherrt^ Regular business hours resume on Wednesday. July 1st, 2020. will be taken at the mw • application or providing comment before July 1st should Those interested in re vie L Township Clerk by telephone at lhe number provided below, make an appointment with the Townsn p j • • l - necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as Hope Township will provide J (apes ofprjn(c(j material being considered at the signers for the hearing impaire ‘ aJ t^e Scaring. Individuals with disabilities requirhearing, to individuals wit i is conlact t|K* Hope Township Clerk at least 5 days prior ing auxiliary aids or services s le|ephone number listed below. t to the hearing date for asMsUncc at U> I . Wiahtman NaIHa N19|r C ? H r ± H'9h SchooL She IS plc,ured hero w,th poer£ Mary Landes Mead, Gtace Wadeli Blocher Stebbins Elie Lathrnn qh e,or Lowe. Ollie Babbitt Beattie, Floy Etway Foreman; (back) Lillian Knapp Gore, ' ' t P epard, Grace Giddings Simas, Frances Seger Burgess and Emma Latnrop Hayman’’. in the 1905 Barry County Normal class Pictured are Hrant teacher Miss Harriett Peckham, Ruth bXS Lowe nt 9 r And at this point, the Herald wishes to compliment the class on the excellence with which they each and ail presented their graduating productions. Ease and gracefulness of manner and clearness of enunciation distinguished every oration and made it a pleasure to listen to the exercises from beginning to end. After music by the orchestra. Superintendent Hayden addressed the audience in a few suggestive words on the question whether education pays. Unfortunately, the threatening aspect of the clouds at that moment caused many people to hurry away and shortened the closing exercises somewhat. Al the close of his remarks. Mr. Hayden turned the class over to the school board for the ceremony of conferring the diplomas. Mr. R.M. Bates, president of the- board, then performed that pleasing duty and after the benediction had been pronounced, the class of 1901 was fully ready to receive the congratulations of their friends. For the 19^ time, graduates of HHS hold reunion Large companypartakes of the annual feast and listens to after-dinner ortitorv. yinuo*? yncG onT * There can! be no question but that the custom of holding an annual gathering of the graduates of a high school is not only pleasurable to thc graduates, but what is more important, (it is] beneficial io the community in which lhe school is located. The custom perpetuates a loyal feeling to the school and creates in the public mind a new- and deeper personal interest in education affairs. Therefore, it i.s with sincere gratification that the Herald chronicles the success of the 191^ annual reunion of the Hastings High School Alumni Association, last Friday evening at the -parish house of Emmanuel church. Preliminary to the banquet, the alumni met on lhe lawn of Mrs. Rose Colgrove’s residence and elected officers for the next year. The following were elected: President Dr. F.E. Willison; vice president, Sylvester C. Greusel; secretary. Miss Myrtle Sullivan; treasurer. .Miss Mary Wooton. The alumni and their guests, to the number of about 150. then repaired to the church house where they were seated around the handsomely adorned and generously loaded tables, which the ladies of the church are so famous for preparing. After invocation by the Rev. George Bullen, (he agreeable business of disposing of the refreshments was entered upon with all the zest that such an appetizing feast could not fail to produce, even in the most fastidious of epicures. Excellent music was furnished by Troxel’s orchestra during the banquet and at the close of the speeches. Mr. E.F- Bottum as toastmaster presided over the feast and the literary program that followed, performing the exacting duties of that office in an entirely felicitous manner The first toast of the evening was in the nature of a welcome to the class of 1901, given by W.G. Bauer of Eaton Rapids. Clayton Hinckley, president of the class, responded in lx*half of his classrnates. . The class Son2, the author being too modest to reveal hi's’name. was then sung by the whole audience A duel by Mra. James Troxel and Mrs. Frank H®”” fo110''0**’ . Superintendent N.H- H“yde" An old college X was then i»Julgccl ». by an present alter which Dr. Ben Lee of Grand Rapids showed th, the cares of pmlesstonal lifcl'ad-”akeX^i.nl>>ePa-re,n°u± The alumni, graduates and even music students were familiar with the high school building in 1901, depicted here in an 1896 illustration. (Images from "City of Hastings. Michigan, 1871-1891") Pediatrics f Brigh t Start Pediatrics is currently seeking a MEDICAL ASSKTAM7RN FOR FT/PT to join our enthusiastic team. Qualified candidates, with the ability to work in a fast-paced environment and strong attention to detail should apply. Experience in pediatrics preferred but not required. If interested in joining our team, please inquire with Wendi at Bright Start Pediatrics 1375 W. Green St., Suite #3, Hastings, MI Position Opening The Barry County Equalization Department is now accepting applications for a part-time Equalization Data Entry Clerk. The Clerk will assist the department with Entering sales data entry and clerical duties. Position requirements include at least a high school diploma, one year of experience with data processing and some knowledge of property descriptions and the property tax system, and must be an accurate typist with high typing proficiency. The base pay rate is $13.95. J very neat after-dinner SP*?.11, li0|.n township planning commission Hope Township Hall ‘irs- I rank Hains then favored the 5463 S. M-43 Hwy Hastings. Michigan 49058 (269) 948-2464 fact, he made a ftj, Continued nex^ Pa&e Please send a cover letter, and resume to: Tim Vandermark, Director, Barry County Equalization, 220 West State Street Hastings, Ml 49058. An application and job description is available at m harrycounty.org, or by contacting Tim Vandermark, 517-543-4101, tyaadainatK^ba.trYC.QUQty.ois Deadline for applications: Monday, June 29 by 5 p.m. �',enis in ‘he same edi‘i°n „nhe diMracting.lThe ’-he .mu'* ncWsP»P«-T he anbit bit distracting. > '’Articles,generally. shorter and the headlines Onerous, at !east. So^'T'............. ‘ !er. or more in & *he ,lumni munfon and^Ln^' p”dua,i'»"- ,hc £e accompanying anv one edition of an old n ». ltcn1, tiut« mihmoraQuneXXTi.0^5.0 efler enough, as in enough evni ° i ,insrhcmJin ,hc d page 1 in the Junc 27. 1901. ‘ °esn 1 To whom it may concern: Nashville, Mich., June 25 1901 • “This is to say that the house that I searched ;n Hastings June 17,1 found no propcrty (hal I thought was stolen, and there were no arcests made. I was looking for a pair of walking sh)es. No. 4 h and all the shoes of any kind J found were 3 and 3 h Yom >RA Brooks. Deputy Sheriff, Nashville.” Was it a letter to the editor? A legal advertisement? Who knows? Items such as this, which raise eyebrows and subsequent quesuons. add to the hire and charm, some might say, of thc old news pages. Other notices spur lhe imagination - such as the announcement that Col. V.F. “Buckskin Bill” Cody (not to be confused with Buffalo Bill) would be coming to town July 10, bringing with him more than 1,000 men and horses. Where? How? A thousand, really? “Grand street cavalcade at 10 a.m.” Capitalization rules were a little less strict in 1901. So. is that Grand Street cavalcade, or a grand street cavalcade? Who knows? As both lhe vehicles and tractors of their day, horses - usually nameless - seemed to be in lhe paper for some reason every week “Last Saturday evening, while Dr. Brcckon was al lhe home of J.W. Shisler. his team, which he had driven there, became untied from where he had hitched them and returned home, coming the entire distance, crossing the railroad track, ironing through the driveway and onto the bam floor without thc slightest damage to anything. The doctor at once telephoned to his residence, and his mind was put at ease when he found that his learn had arrived in safety. There’s a case where the telephone in lhe country proved to be a fine thing. - Caledonia News" Would that be considered a self-driving vehicle? Strong words and stronger opinions sometimes went unrestrained. “Some maliciously disposed persons have been mutilating lhe shade trees at Lake Odessa, and The Wave very properly calls lheir conduct ‘low cussedness.’” But thc news in that area wasn’t all bad. President J.L. Snyder of the Michigan Agricultural College (now MSU) was to do the orating in Lake Odessa July 4. Woodland would be getting a new principal, Webster Hastings, former Palo schools chief. And the principal wasn’t the only new fixture in town. “Woodland can now’ boast of a new hotel, up to date and entirely American, even in name. It is called the New American, and its landlord is E5. Coville.” While Woodland residents were feasting their eyes upon the new- hotel, Middleville residents may have been paying closer attention to their lawns. “While cutting weeds one day last week, Village Marshal Farnum found a gold watch, and now it is to be presumed everybody in Middleville is cutting weeds.” ' “Low'ell is going to celebrate thc Fourth,” the Herald reported. ■ Well, one might ask, isn’t everyone? Nope. ’ “And now it is stated there will be no celebration at Prairieville on the 4l ol July after all. The [Prairieville] Press claims that the reasons for the abandonment of the project are too numerous to mention. Items such as, “Charlotte is reveling in its first automobile, recently purchased by A.D. Baughman of dial city.” are a reminder of a much different way of life. ® Continued from previous page -----Leon Bauer followed Mr. Smith with an interesting talk on “Trades.” Then came n song by the company and a toast on “Success,” responded to very pleasantly by Miss Nonna Michael. “The Old School Songs.” thc last toast on the program, was entertainingly treated by Mrs. Elva Mudge, and the exercises concluded with a piece of music by the orchestra. ___ ambrcllaSensaiio’1^ B8 cts.| 3 s ft ft 8 5 & ft ft ft 6V ft We h,„ teWrommcoU ft u^onthUlot NopincWBB 0( fiMgTO, „ Ulriog 0, Suable aud practical device introduced in thc umbroll* years. Handles alone Rric money. We alio have and cheaper ones. ft ft Tho Hastings Banner —• Thursday, June 25,2020 — Pag© 9 hf iwll. m. English gloria cloth, fast color, paragon fm®e« B fancy handles. 1 ffi Pleasant musical event at M.E. Church Tuesday night ft first lteel ro*. all New Century Runner & L €. Stauner. The “most valuable and practical device" In umbrella construction was available at L.E. Stauffer’s store for a mere 88 cents, according to the June 27, 1901, Hastings Herald. In another advertisement in that same edition, Fred Heath, the druggist, point­ ed out, “Speaking of hot weather... If you had taken my advice, you would all have had hammocks before this extreme hot spell." Hammocks at his store were available at 50 cents for baby-sized, or a more deluxe model with a “good pillow, wide fringe, strong color," marked down from $2.50 to $1.75. “Our $3.00, $4.00 and $4.40 [models] are bargains," Heath claimed. But, another notice proved that people traveled - and mentions a geographic name all-too familiar today for sad reasons: “Luther Brown of Cedar Creek, started Thursday on a trip east. He will visit his son, Rev. Henry Brown, chaplain in the U.S. Army and now located at Fort Hancock, Sandy Hook, NJ., and also visit his birthplace in Connecticut, which he has not seen since a small child.” Miracle cures for all sorts of ailments dot lhe pages. A cure for the common cold? Someone claimed to have found it: “To cure a cold in one day: Take Laxative Bromo Quinine Tablets. All druggists refund the money if it fails to cure. E.W. Grove’s signature is on each box. 25 cents.” Cultural lessons are provided, sometimes one paragraph at a time. “When coronets are worn - Thc only occasion upon which a British peer or peeress wears a coronet is at thc coronation of a sovereign. At the moment when the archbishop of Canterbury places the crown on the head of lhe new monarch, every peer present at the ceremony dons his own coronet.” Anecdotes, amusing snippets and what today might be referred to as “dad jokes” helped fill small spaces in die columns. “Enough to retire on: That great Italian tenor told me he had a mattress stuffed full of thc laurel wreaths that had been given to him. “A mattress full? Then he ought to retire on them.” - Clevela/id Plain Dealer. Local industrialist Emil Tyden was frequently mentioned in the paper, often because of latest innovation. This June paper reported "Emil Tyden has secured a patent for a can or bottle cover with fastening for same; also for a seal lock for cans or bottle.” Farmers in Eaton County were showing their induslriousness, as well, trying lheir hands at a new crop. “The farmers around Charlotte who went into lhe sugar beet business have evidently done a good thing for laboring interests in that city. The Lansing Sugar Co., which is raising about 250 acres of beets on the farms near Charlotte, has a big force of people engaged in weeding the young plants, with a pay roll of $300 a week.” Depending on lhe weather, lhe streets were muddy, dusty or somewhere in between, but the utility poles were handsome. "Some of the telegraph and telephone poles in the city have lately h000 painted, adding greatly to their appearance. A strict compliance with the ordinance would require that all of them be thus treated. And then, as today, readers were reminded to shop locally. “The Herald has the finest line of calendar samples ever seen in Barry County and invites business men who want something in this line to call and see them.Then: is no use in giving your orders outside of town.” The Hastings Musical Club, assisted by the Hastings Male Quartet, gave a successful concert Tuesday evening nt the Methodist Episcopal Church [now Christ the King at the intersection of Green and Jefferson streets.] Not even lhe excessively warm weather was able to keep the friends of the organization away from one of its concerts, which are among the principal events of the city. And the ladies and gentlemen of the club had reason to feel grateful for the large attendance and evident appreciation of their attainments, which such attendance signified. The church could nol have held many more people Tuesday night without serious discomfort. The platform of the church was tastily decorated with festoons of bunting, flowers, etc., thc club colors, pink and green, predominating. Thc decorating was done by Harriett McIntyre, Jeannette Hughes and Lloyd Hogle and reflected credit upon their good taste and judgement. To attempt to criticize where all did so well would be an ungracious task. Of course, all lhe young pianists did not do equally well. All did not attempt equally difficult music, nor show the same technical skill. But measured by their years and the degree of training received, all who took part may be truthfully said to have done themselves and their teacher great credit. They each and all showed careful and conscientious work. The vocal numbers, interspersed liberally throughout the program also were well rendered and added greatly to thc enjoyment of the evening. The program was opened with a wellrendered piano trio, an overture by Czerny’s, by the Misses Anzolctta and Edith E. Lombard and Margery Kcables. Miss Clara Wightman followed with a vocal solo by Bowers entitled "Wail.” Thc young lady showed she possesses a voice that has much promise in it. Miss PUBLIC NOTICE r>n The Barry County Plat Board will meet on Thursday, July 2, \£020, at 9:00 a.m. in the Commissioner Chamber Mezzanine, of the Barry County Courthouse, Hastings, Ml 49058. 220 West State Street, City of Hastings The purpose of the meeting is to review and NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING COMMERCIAL REHABILITATION DISTRICT FOR COMMERCIAL FACILITIES EXEMPTION CERTIFICATE FOR 802 W STATE STREET, HASTINGS, Ml 49058 REFERENCE P.A. 210 OF PUBLIC ACTS 2005 approve the Misty Ridge No. 7 Plat, in Section 27, T4N, R10W, of the Village of Middleville, Barry County, Michigan. Pamela A. Palmer Barry County Clerk 142BI4 City of Hastings Notice is hereby Council will hold July 13, 2020 at termined. Please Position Available: School Crossing Guard PUBLISHER S NOTICE: AW real wtMW wheruvnf .n i; jubjtct lo (hr An .rrj ibe Ci'il R,Kh’* l 5»hn-t> colltttiwi’) make it iHcf prtfecrnce. linvUttun <’ >rJ i>«> ,itfi c*'° • rebgioa, handicap. Wlfin, MfC •>» 5' >’U*- c‘ ictcflUwi. io nuke «oi> prfwnux. limitation ouiinaUotu l-r. lul Mstui indudo diiidftn under nravmr *nh parenu ttut xl'4/u. ptTfiiJn' women and pr«>p. Kcwmf of uhitoren under In. Jia iiewtfMpcr * ill *-«p( My <yj%rrthin£ for red h in 'ioUtiofl U* k*. O»»» *re hereby informed Mhemred in thre «« bvwlMbfr on *n cqud In repua ds»crimiwt»o1» cdl «« **r Hottief Crnur at 616-*51 ft* Hl'Dt jU free tekfbone numlff M branry impaired h 1 927-Vzr ■ HusiiieM Services I or Sale ■■',.5 CONS I RUCTIONyears experience. Dry w al, Pnung, Ole, । imorovements, power CARBON SPORT AIR Hock­ ey Table. $300.00 OBO. Phone 269-908-1654. KASSON 10FT OAlCpool ISSsiHa-— Table, excellent condition $1,000.00 or OBO. 269-90& 1654 This part-time position assists in traffic control at assigned intersections to aid school children walking to and from school. A regularly assigned position as well as a substitute position are available. Will be employed by the Hastings Area School System but supervised by the Hastings City Police Department. Current minimum starting wage is $9.65 per hour with attendance bonus annually. Complete job description and application form are available on request from Hastings Police Department, 201 E. State St., Hastings, Michigan 49058, 269.945.5744. Position is open until filled* Jeff Pratt Chief of Police 142715 ______ given that the Hastings City a public hearing on Monday 7:00 pm, location to be de­ see City website (hastingsrnL orq) for location. Ability to relate to children and the general public and the ability and willingness to follow direction are required. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL Tte Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Glenna M. IXiyle played a piano solo, the “Mill Wheel,” by Smith, very nicely. Thc fourth number was given by the Hastings Male Quartet, Messrs. Charles Barnaby, Frank Horton, John Ketcham and William Shulters. Thc selection was Griggs’ “Ashamed of Jesus" and was very effectively sung. Thc gentlemen’s voices arc nicely balanced, and their ensemble work is pleasing. Miss Clara M. Hendershott rendered Gctbel’s descriptive composition. “The Storm" with much skill, and after her came a cornet solo by Miss Agnes Lowry. The young lady so thoroughly pleased her audience by her rendition of Fenazzi’s “Impromptu Waltz” that she was obliged to respond to an encore. Spindler’s “Charge of the Hussars” was thereupon executed by Miss Clara M. Hall, and Part 1 was delightfully ended with a cradle song, “Weigenlicd,” by Frank, sung by lhe “Treble Clef’ chorus, consisting of eight young ladies. Part 2 was opened by Miss /Xnzoletta Lombard’s playing of Rive-King’s exacting “Ballade et Polonaise de Concert,” a brilliant composition admirably handled. ’Hie second number was a ballad by Dolores, “Yesterday, I was Spinning,” sung with marked success by Mrs. R.I. Hendershott. Then came a piano solo, “The Swallow Song,” by Bohn, nicely played by Miss Grace Beamer. Miss Blanche R. Calkins’ selection was entitled “Pharphase de Concert” by Seaboech. a beautiful adaptation of the “Suwanee River,” and effectively played. One of those charming negro ballads ”Po’ Little Lamb,” lhe production of Dunbar Park, was then sung by lhe Male Quartet with such pleasing effect as to result in their recall. One of the most ambitious performances of lhe evening was the playing of Leybach’s Opus 27 from “LaSonnambula” by Miss Margery Kcables, and the young lady handled her difficult lask exceedingly well. Miss Edith E. Lombard closed the piano numbers on the program with Sindling’s “Rustle of Spring,” a short, showy production, and rendered with good effect. Finally, a very successful concert was appropriately ended by the singing of “Daddy,” a pathetic and beautiful ballad of Behrend’s by lhe Hastings Male Quartet. The club and Mrs. Archie McCoy are to be congratulated on the success of their eighth recital. The purpose of the Public Hearing is for City Council to hear comments and make a deter­ mination on the establishment of a Commercial Rehabilitation District. The Commercial Reha­ bilitation District is for the property located at 802 W. State Street, Hastings, Ml 49058 other­ wise known as: Parcel #08-55-001-212-00 And commonly known as: Kmart Store The City will provide necessary reasonable aid and services to disabled persons wishing to at­ tend these hearings upon seven days notice to the Clerk of the City of Hastings, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. Telephone 269/945-2468 or TDD Jane M. Saurman City Clerk 143204 - / ttnii HAY FOR SALE- 1st cut $4.00/bale, 2nd cut $5.00/ bale. Call Delton 269-569-3900 or 269-569-3800. CATION spear,, e7fikSl 269-804-7506- (larattr Salt GARAGE SALE/ESTATE SALE: 1317 Elise Dr, Hastfngs. Fri-Sat,june26th-27th, 2020. 9am-5pm. See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS ,351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits �Page Page 10 W— — Thursday. Thursday, June June 25. 25. 2020 2020 — — The The Hastings Hastings Banner : City approves amendment to current budget Savamih Kacchclc Contrthuhng Writer The current City of Hastings budget wus amended Monday for possibly the final tim<* before the fiscal year ends June 30. The amendment allows for some realign­ ments w ithin each fund to avoid budget viola­ tions, City Manager Jerry Czarnecki toW council members during die meeting, "hk t was conducted remotely. This budget amendment included changes of expenditure amounts in the general fun . major and local street funds, police. cemetcQ. and drog enforcement funds- The changes o these specific funds did no! result in any change to their fund balances, other than a $5,500 increase in the Drug Enfotvenwnt Special Revenues fund balance due,oa ai reimbursement that had not been budge c . “W hen there was an increase in one place, there was a decrease in another. Czarnec 1 said. . Various council members raised questions «>n she .specific chances so difierenl fine items in the ecneml fund. Councilwoman Brenda McSabb-Stange asked why she general fund for street lighting hud risen from $95,587 to $132.58/. an increase ol $37.(XX). The increase was related to the approval of the light P<’le replacement, which is shared with the downtown develop­ tiK»<>o'> other one bc being , .«•<! in tw ’« places,one '"*1' 1com‘ n .ervto -'"d ,h'! o,hcr bc",g :'!v Vvekipnieni.” she udded. "We just ffecreased those budgets by the amount that «e increased this. fn nihrr business, the council. Xpprowd a committed fund balance to the t .bnry Special Revenue Fund in the total amount of $2(X),000. including SKXDJOO Jowtud the replacement of windows at the library. . -Approved the performance resolution from Michigan Departmeik of Transportation. The resolution previously in place included the title of the positions authorized to apply for permits to work on the stale highway right of way and the names lx-hind those titles. MDOT sent the new resolution, recommend­ ing changes. “When [MDOT] sent it over, they recom­ mended doing this resolution and have it just be the title and. as there are changes in posi­ tions. this resolution doesn’t have to be revis­ ited. And that way. if something comes along, it doesn’t cause an issue when somebody applies fora permit,” Czarnecki said. -Awarded three different bids for three chemicals used at the wastewater treatment plant, including the bid to ChcmTrade for $223 per wet ton of liquid aluminum sulfate hydrate solution; a bid to Shannon Chemical for $521 per 55-gallon drum of sodium per­ ment authority. . Citv Clerk Treasurer Jane Saurman clari­ manganate; and a bid to Watersolve for $1.96 fied that the original $95 .(XX) is to pay for per pound of polymer: all recommended by Consumers Energy for all electric service for Director of Public Services Director Matt .1 year. mH just for the light pole replacement. Gergen. -Awarded three bids for three chemicals '-It’s the account in our general fund that has to do with things like our street lighting, used al the waler treatment plant, including a and infrastructure is one of the items in that bid to Elhorn Engineering for $352 per particular function that can budgeted and 30-gallon drum of phosphate (poly/ortho spent out of that particular group,” Saurman blend); the bid to Haviland Products for $70 per 15-gallon drum of hydrofluosilicic acid; .ul Jed. Council member Don Smith asked about and the bid to Alexander Chemical for $99 per 150-pound cylinder of chlorine gas; all rec­ the change in parks and recreation from $399,837 to $285.137, a decrease of $ 114.700. ommended by Gergen. -Awarded a bid to Halifax Serv ices for cus-; "It’s a decrease because of a project that we didn’t do. One was the restroom at the Fish todial and maintenance services for the city Hatchery Park.” Czarnecki said. “So. that w as hall for $35,984. recommended by Gergen. This is a one-year contract with Halifax the vast majority of that change.” McNabb-Slange also found a typo in the Services. McNabb-Slange questioned why budget amendment. As stated in the resolu­ bids for the city groundwork were being con­ tion. “The appropriation for expenditures in sidered. “I thought that there was a recommendation the Major Streets Fund for Routine Maintenance is decreased from $759,010 to that we eliminate outsourcing of the grounds $423,710 (a decrease of $335300.000).” The work for next year.” she said. “There was consideration for that if we amount will be corrected to read $335,300. were looking al lay ing off our people, then we Council member Bill Redman asked why arts and cultural services was increased from were going to have our people do it.” Mayor David Tossava explained. “But. Jerry zero to $30,000. “Arts and cultural services is a function that (Czameckij and Matt [Gergen! both think that we added this year, mid-year, to keep track of’ । vve eqin Reep our people busy this year. So. if all of the spending jtyAW^Thronapplc PJqzathey’re .busy. they, won’t have lime to do this aiul, tfiqjSptajSh.pad,.along with other things other work. So. that’s why these bids are in that we do here in the city.’’ Saurman said. here.” “The increase in the budget has just been -Awarded a bid to Leaping Lizards Landscaping Lt o f, mowingand maintv -----scaping LLc niJ‘inte nance service^ f( . (nVned properties, including parks, n.t. ' and (he river walks, $78,JH.nded by Gergen. rossnva was co1R,.^^lHHll the difference in bid amounts. . . .r;ng the other bid frumBM O.nd.X),^ a $'l(\832 differeney was lhe service used last year, and ik hid was a little higher Cb“nJaM\Wr’C^eckisnKL , , My only concern vnli know we can l look past the $40,000 that ’we arc gn’no ,o sav’ ing by going to Le jjzjirds.” Tossava said. “This will betime since I’ve been with the City 0| H-jstings ,hal we’Vtf had something like this cJnic in "liere been quite a dilTCrencC f-irst time it hap­ pened, and I hope jt doesn-( happen this time, the people that got jt time, they under­ bid ev erylxxly by $40 qqo, They took over the contract for the parks and parking lots and. in the middle of the season, they couldn’t make any money, so they |er. .’1UJ we had to take it over.” “You kind of Wonder when there’s such a differential in pricing if something is going to be left out. but rm surc oUr people will be watching.” he added. Tossava voted against awarding of lhe bid to Leaping Lizards, |ater ^-iterating his deci­ sion was based on follow-through by low bidders in lhe past. During council member comment. Bill Redman and John Resseguie questioned when the council will be able'to meet in-person at the city hall for the rvgll|ar meetings. ‘ We are waiting On t|ie governor,” 1’ossava answered. Also, during council comment. Smith requested a project update on the old Moose Lodge property at the corner of Michigan Avenue and Apple Street. ‘They have their applications going into HHS student receives CtMgressioirf . ,,e Male, now it’-, in (|k. ante’s hands, waiting |5^r, K s,atc| to give them some infonnation demise they’re looking for some funding roin there.” Czarnecki said of the developer. >• ht now. ji's a waiting game with every••hg that s going on with the pandemic.” , ue to multiple people asking him. council . jVy Kr. ZV Jurvix questioned how people are * e to join the remote meetings and address the council. ” ..... ..,-rcvi the meeting • The way flA to access lhe electronic electronic meeting k posted on our website prior to each meet­ in.! !ind it's open to anybody, so they can get <m the meeting," Czarnecki said. To join the next city council meeting will be at 7 pin- Monday. July 13. via the mstingsmi.org website. The downloadable link for the remote meeting can be found under the •Services" tab. in lhe "News sec­ lion. Hastings Women’s Club awards scholarship Deborah Wilke, (left) Hastings Women’s Club director, and Joann Logan, (right) club president, present Hastings graduate Chelsea Beede with the GFWC Jump Start Your Future scholarship. (Photo provided) Hie GFWC Hastings Women's Chib has awarded its 2020 Jump Start Your Future scholarship to Chelsea Beede of Hustings, daughter of Michelle Cronk and Wayne Beede. fhe S75O scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior at Hastings High School who has demonstrated academic success, leadership skills, school involvement and community service. . Al Hastings High' School.iBecde was ih ’ iho m lrchiiv.’ banc for four yeaixu played 11m’” the volleyball team, taught small children in her church nursery lor seven years and taught kindergarten classes for her high school community serv ice. She credits Barbara Case, her kindergarten teacher in Hastings, for reaching out and influencing her to want to continue to work with young children. To achieve this long­ time goal. Beede plans to attend Grand Valley State University. She intends to major in elementary education and eventually teach kindergarten-age children. fhe General Federation of Women’s Clubs is an international organization dedicated to community improvement by enhancing the lives of others through volunteer service. The HastingsuWotnen’s Club will resume monthly meetings in September. All interested adult • women are invited to join and may call club president Joann Logan, 269-945-9782, for more information. HmkmI ifocus William Roosien III, a recent graduate of Hastings High School, received a Congressional Medal of Merit. (Photo provided) Tiny bubbles Dr. Universe: Why does soap get bubbly? Samuel. 9. East Peoria, III. Dear Samuel, When you wash your hands with soap and water, a few different things happen to make bubbles. Just like you, water and soap are made up of parts called molecules. Water mole­ cules really like to stick together. If you’ve ever jumped in a puddle or a pool, you may have noticed how water splashes in the shape of little drops. ?\s water sticks together, it likes to form spheres. That’s what 1 found out from my friend David Thiessen, a chemical engineer at Washington State University. Thiessen is really curious about bubbles and droplets, especially how they work in different kinds of space technology. H you look a straw and blew bubbles in a glass of water, you would see air bubbles form underwater. When they rise to the lop of the water, they immediately pop. But if you added some soap to the water and blew into the straw, you'd see a lot of foam com­ ing up out of the glass. That happens because of the nature of the molecules in soap. They arc called sur« factant molecules, and they spread them­ selves out evenly and sit on the surface of wafer. This happen** because surfactants have two ends, Ihiessen said chemists usually talk about surfactants as having a ’’head” and a “tail.'’ The head likes waler and wants Io slick to the water. The fail doesn’t like water anti likes to stay in the air. A force calk'd surface tension is at work when you sue a bubble. This force makes water behave a bit like a thin sheet of rub ber. That’s how bugs can sometimes even stand on water without sinking. The surface tension of water is really high, but when soap is added to water, it lowers the tension. The surfactant mole­ cules push their way between water mole­ cules. and in the process, separate water molecules from one another, reducing their attractive force. The soap helps spread the water into a thin film that forms a sphere: the bubble. You can learn more about surface ten­ sion with a really simple activity. Pour some water on a plate. Sprinkle some pep­ per on top of the water. Then put a drop of soap on your finger and touch the middle of the pepper. 1*he soap lowers the surface tension and the pepper scatters to the plate’s edge. Soap and water molecules not only can help create bubbles but also help cut through grease on dirty dishes and even get rid of germs on your hands. Besides behav­ ing in all kinds of interesting ways, bubbles also can make some really interesting col­ ors. When light hits the surface of a bubble and reflects oft the two sides of the film the light rays interfere with each other. It creates a phenomenon called iridescence and display s a rainbow' of colors. The next time you wash your hands or help with the dishes. take a kxik al how many tiny bubbles you made and think to yourself: “That's chemistry.” Rep. Justin Amash. I.-Mich., recently congratulated the 2020 service academy appointees and student Congressional Medal of Merit recipients from Michigan’s Third District. Twenty-six students from the Third District - including William Roosien HI of Hastings - received the Congressional Medal of Merit. I he Congressional Medal of Merit recognizes high school seniors who have demonstrated exemplary citizenship and academic excellence Recipients were nominated by their school principals or guidance counselors. Roosien, son of Allison and William Roosien Jr., is a 2020 graduate of Hastings High School. He was involved in a variety of activities in high school, including Business Professionals of America, Youth Leadership Summit. National Honor Society student government, the musical, bond committee, impact team. Substance Abuse Task l;°rcc’ col,^e ambassadors. YMCA community service, film club. Students Aga*,1S* Destructive Decisions and Colle<*e Ambassadors of Hastings High School ° He also was on the skiing elub team, as ^ell as track and field and soccer teams, Which led to several awards- He received the Sportsmanship P|ay tjIC Year A*«rd in Soccer, the Ro»kie'.ar Award in tme a"d “">"'a<ely was ’ Michtgan High School Athletic Association'svhola'r among Class H schools. so was selected to ™“'d »>e S(lld Athlete UadcrUnp Conference. He graduated Wll|, highest :|cadennc honors, and has a Sc,, c de Cerlif‘<;a,,<,n lus credit. vrvaa^ Dr. Universe Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University’s resident scientist and writer at Dr.Universed wsti.edu or visit her website, askdnmiversc.com. ..... I1 s ■' Privik*. ' u. recogn>« the achievements of ii/1 ..ixtatah”" ■>1Vdenl'' ;lnd । look forward^ °ll0'v thcy '"1’P and '•■"'dfutura J'Osee % Atn;|Ch'aid < <-’>erauon>- r rovided by the Barry County offices of Edward Jones Kevin Beck, AAMSO Member SIPC —— Andrew Cove, AAMS® 421 W. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-3553 400 V/. State St., Suite B Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-4702 Ensure you’re properly insured There’s certainly been plenty of volatility and uncertainly the past few months, but one aspect of your financial picture has probably remained stable: your need for insurance. And since National Insurance Awareness Day is observed on June 28, now is a good lime to review your overall insurance coverage to determine if you and your loved ones are wellprotected. You might be surprised at the lack of protection among your fellow citizens. Less than 60 percent of Americans have life insurance, and just about half of those with insurance are underinsured, according io LIMRA. a research organization. Of course, you might think the reason so many people don’t have insurance is because they don’t need it. But just about every age group can benefit from life insurance. • Ifyou have a house and a family... Your insurance needs are obvious: If '•omething happened to you, could your mortgage payments still be met? How about your car payments? Doctor’s bills? College lor your children? 1 ven if you have a spouse or partner who cants a decent income, your family could still haw big trouble pay mg its bills if you weren’t around. • lfy<A young and single uith no Jam;! 1 rcspandbilitie^ . If you're in this group, why would you need life insurance? For one thing, perhaps you owe money together with someone else - you might, for example, be a joint debtor on a mortgage. If you passed away, your co­ debtor would be responsible for the entire debt. And just because you don’t have family responsibilities now. it doesn't mean you never will. If you have a family history' of serious health issues, which may eventually affect you, you could have trouble gelling life insurance later, or al least getting it without paying a lot. Now. when you’re young and healthy, the coverage is available and may be more affordable. • // your children are grown and you 're retired ... If you retire with debt or have a spouse dependent on you, keeping your life insurance is a good idea, especially if you haven't paid off’ your mortgage. Plus, life insurance can be used in various ways in your estate plans. Ewn if you recognize the need for life insurance, though, you may be uncertain about how much you require. Your employer may offer insurance, bill it might not be sufficient for your needs. And, perhaps just as important, if you leave your job. voluntarily or not, you’ll likely lose this coverage. Il you purchase a private policy, what’s the right amount? You might have heard you need a death benefit that’s worth sewn or eight times your annual salary, but that’s just a rough estimate. To determine the appropriate level of coverage, you'll need to consider a variety of factors: your age, income, marital status, number of children, and so on. Still, even after you’ve got the right amount in place, it doesn’t mean it's set in stone. You should review your coverage regularly, and especially when you change jobs, get married or remarried, have children or experience any other major life event. Life insurance should be a key part of your overall financial strategy, along with your retirement accounts and other investments. Make sure you’re properly covered - for today and tomorrow. Tins article was written by Edward Jones for use b\ your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. I dvvard Jones, Member S1PC Edward Jones is a licensed insurance producer in al! states and Hadungion. D.C.. through Edward D. Jones A Co.. I. />, and in California. New Mexico and Massachusetts through Edward Jones Insurance Agency of California. LL.C.l Edward Jones Insurance Agency of New Mexico. l..| .C.: and reward Jone- Insurance Agcncv of Massachusetts. L.L.C. ' E dward Jones. itsemployees a"d financial advisors arc not cstau planners and cannot powC A-n or legal advice ion Oloidd consult your estate­ planning attorney or qualified advisor reganting vour situation. ‘ �4? . ■ ■■ *-^04 Th° Har'lin°5 Bannor Thursday« Juno 25, 2020 - Page 11 rarm industry pushes back against state limits on manure spread New h..n.iJ'.rldR.l‘ Mn8«rinc tion in Michie x °°S a,m to reducc pollu- from fanning groun wl"60’ after an appeal go too far P argUe l^c mcasures Burc-n^’1^1' the Michigan Farm inSailer tarminp industry lix -h n farmers *’ has riled an ndministra\ c”£e 1° Michigan’s updated general I* 1 lor large animal farms, arguing that the v u ,OSersteppcd its regulatory authority by uvating new pollution controls that limit their a ility to spread manure on farm fields during me w inter. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy adopted the new reg­ ulations in a March revision of the state’s general permit for concentrated animal feed­ ing operations, or CAFOs. after months of negotiations with industry groups, environ­ mentalists and others. The change was intended as a step to address nutrient pollution that plagues water­ ways from Saginaw’ Bay to luike Erie, as well as inland Jakes and streams. In a May 26 petition to the Michigan Office of Administrative /Xppeals, the farming coali­ tion argued that the manure spreading restric­ tion and other limits in the new permit “have a tenuous relation to water quality” and will harm food production in Michigan. Farming industry advocates said they believe the pennit places an undue burden on farmers by reducing the amount of land they can farm, and when and how they farm it. "At some point in time, the regulatory bur­ den becomes so much, it’s not financially feasible lo absorb it,” said Ernie Birchmeier,a livestock and dairy specialist with the Michigan Farm Bureau. Environmental groups who have advocated lor tighter controls on manure pollution slammed that claim as baseless and said they arc considering their options for intervening in lhe case. “The ag industry feels like they should be immune from regulations that they don’t come up with,” said Tom Zimnicki, agricul- ture lure program program director director with with the the Michigan Michigan Environmental Council. ’ 1 hat s really what it boils down to." CAFOs arc large feedlots where animals typically live in close quarters rather than grazing pastureland. lheir manure is often stored in lagoons or other storage facilities before being applied lo farm fields as fertiliz­ er. Nitrogen, phosphorus and other nutrients in lhe manure help plants grow. But when too much is applied to soil — or frozen ground that can’t absorb it — manure containing those nutrients can run off into nearby water­ ways. There, it can cause toxic algal blooms that arc dangerous to humans and wildlife. Bacteria from the manure also can linger in the water, making it unsafe to drink; or nutri­ ents can leach into the groundwater and con­ taminate wells. Scientists and regulators have identified manure from CAFOs as a significant contrib­ utor lo nutrient pollution in the Great Lakes region, including the toxic algae blooms that turn Lake Erie green every summer. Michigan’s new permit covers large opera­ tions with cows, pigs, chickens and other animals numbering in the hundreds and thou­ sands — about 260 farms in total. Because such facilities produce and store large amounts of animal w’aste in a confined area, they are regulated as so-called point sources under the Clean Water Act — along with wastewater treatment plants, factories and other facilities where pollution stems from a single discernible source — and require waste disposal permits that don't apply to smaller livestock farms. Michigan updates its permit every five years. The new permit released this spring bans the stale’s largest concentrated animal feeding operations from spreading manure on farm fields as fertilizer from January through March, with some exceptions. Farms can still apply manure during restricted months if they provide regulators with advance notice, can incorporate lhe manure into the ground immediately, and if snow and frost levels fall below a certain threshold, among envi,^' threshold, among cnvitn ' Brace Washburm ‘ ,s CAI.(n’ H-ntal quality specialist in to sa'd the move is .t plague w.! nutricnt runoff problems that r ' ^lerways near CAFOs. . . January r- . "Data tell «’■p.noffntjJ^™"’)' and March arc high'^ ic staff k • Washbum said, noting that E ' m s responded to “several” insume-e rnOni? ,c^h»ng jnlo waterways during । • We re try­ ing to take that out yfl ^onsowccan protect water Comm< The farm coalm^ ’ conJJ/u,lt specifically contests several P1 nian°nS’ inclu<ling the restriction on spreading, mandates to ,na'tnixX|ies and01*?’011 buffcr along surface wa<«r other features, and limits io the an Phosphorus that can already lie in S'01 ,anure >s applied. Bob Dykhuis. wh°s ^h?,s Fanns oper­ ates several south'^’(ern Michigan sow farms, said while * ns the spirit” of EGLE’s attempt to a^ss nutrient pollution, he disagrees with Jx ‘k?JPaclk There are often days in March. ^nuiS Sajd> when weather has wurTn . J- soil is thawed and dry - ideal conditions. hc said, to fertil­ ize ahead of spring Pla" *ng. Now. applying mantm. on those days is off-limits. . “There's this assnntplion that manure is running over the sl!r.ace.’, tykhuis said, “when, if it’s done ngl't, it s carefully con­ trolled and held by the soil News of the industry challenge irked envi­ ronmentalists, who say from their perspective, Michigan’s new permit doesn’t go far enough. They had lobbied for an outright ban on manure application in winter, for example. Environmental and public health groups have long decried the CAFO industry, arguing that constant manure production pressures fanners lo over-fertile fields as a means of waste disposal. Rebecca Wolf, a scn,or organizer with Food and Water Action and part of a commit­ tee of environmental groups lhat pushed for tougher regulations in Michigan, said the Family Promise hosting event to raise awareness for homeless families Savanah Kaechelc Contributing Writer The tough situations brought about by a pandemic only add to the plight of homeless­ ness, which hits existed for some time, even in Barry County. Homelessness is not often noticed here, according to the staff at Family Promise of Barry’ County, which will be hosting a special event Saturday. June 27, lo help raise public awareness about the issue. “‘Night Without a Bed’ is a chance to bring empathy as participants experience sleeping somewhere other than lheir comfortable beds for one night,” Executive Director Martha (Gibbons) Ports said. To participate in “A Night Without a Bed,” individuals or families will sleep anywhere without a bed for one night - using lheir cars, tents, a tree house, living room floor or a couch. Participants are encouraged to post something about it on their social media pages, make Facebook fundraisers, or Facebook Live videos to share lheir experi­ ences and the cause. Tagging Family Promise of Barry County and using the hashtag #NightWithoutABed in their posts will help to spread the word as well. Ports said. “As people experience the discomfort of sleeping without a bed for one night, we hope that they consider that many children in our community do this every single night,” she added. Family Promise is a local nonprofit that provides temporary housing and personalized mentoring to families experiencing homeless­ ness. Since the opening in April 2019, it has sheltered nearly a dozen families in need of housing. “The families I’ve met in the last 14 months have come to us from a variety of situations,” Ports said. “Some were living in cars, while others stayed in tents year-round. The majority of them ‘couch surf’ or dou­ ble-up, where they sleep on the couches of friends and family members, moving con­ stantly. This instability is quite disruptive to a child’s development. We are here to bring stability as parents look to lhe future and are empowered with tools to bring self-sufficien­ cy.” Family Promise provides temporary hous­ ing by using a network of area churches to provide food and sleeping space for families for a week at a lime. During the day, families are al lhe Day Cenler al Hope United Methodist Church. There, they have access to showers and laundry facilities and guided case management to help them identify obsta­ cles in their way of obtaining housing, set attainable goals, and connect wilh other Barry’ County resources. Tht holistic care of the staff and volunteers aJdreXses the needs of all members of a family, Ports said. A toolkit was created for people who want to participate in lhe event. Il includes tips on fundraising, information about homelessness in Barry County, statistics on how homeless­ ness impacts children, and other resources to share in their posts or educate others. “The funds raised from this event will stay right here in the community,” Ports said. Anyone who is interested in participating or donating, may visit shorturLal/jGKRl to learn more and access the fundraising toolkit. More information about the event will be shared on lhe Family Promise of Barry County Facebook Page. “Even if a person only raises a couple dol­ lars, w’e know this experience and what they learn about homelessness will slick with them for a long time,” Ports said. tried.” , “So, it’s bad and it could get a lot worse between now and when we finish the budget year?” Patton asked. . “Yes ” Berlin and Remenap said in unison. “That's spectacular." Patton said "Our state Legislature is spectacular - and I say lhat with all sarcasm.” On top of the projected Josses, Berlin said lhe proposed budget does not reflect any addi­ tional costs it would have to incur for prepa­ ration and safety measures the stale mandates to protect students from COyIP-19. For example, costs anticipated by tne Association o?f School Business Officials and The School Superintendents Association estt mare ex^ndirores in the thousands fo Personal Protective Equ.pment such as dis , ones ,n Barry recommendations, not SSSSS.*" budgets. worried about is if it -lire dung I n'.",0S^.°Hiiywood said. "If happens again next y • J )(X>ks Iike we we’ll bc able to cash-fl .( .f W(fre might have one more > lucky,” , t Patton pointed out proposed budget does • as it stands, the off teachen>. T* impacts stu- "Obviously. everything hit toward student dents, but there is no direct nit i activities or student learning. "Nope," Remenap rapM* balance "So. we're sjK.id.ng »■ no( and reducing expenses by ing students, right.’ •u ‘ -That was our "Yes." Remetup s „,any programs goal: We wanted to keep Live music takes new form in downtown Hastings Savunah Kaechelc Director Megan Lavell said. ■ Contributing Writer Although this specific event is new to Restaurants and businesses arc reopening, downtown Hastings, buskers, or street per­ and people are making their way downtown. formers, have entertained on the streets And they will have a new activity to enjoy before. while downtown. ’’Several years ago, the city did a program Live street performances will lake place called ‘Late ‘til 8’ on Fridays and had buskers Fridays and Saturdays, with the exception of then. We’ve put buskers downtown for vari- ' the July 4 weekend when lhe performances ous programs throughout the years,” Lavell will bc Thursday and Friday, between 5 and 8 said. “This is the first time we have done it • p.m. The first night of lhe performances took since the construction of the Thomapple place last week, and music should continue Plaza. We focused our attention on concert through June and July, and possibly August. series after both amphitheaters were built.” This program, offered by the City of The spray plaza, at Church and State streets, Hastings and lhe Thomapple Arts Council, was completed in the summer of 2013, and acts a replacemcnl event for lhe Hastings Live the Thomapple Plaza at State and Boltwood, Summer Entertainment Series, which has opened in lhe spring of 2016. been canceled for this summer. Even though the concert series is canceled, The annual grant from lhe Michigan music will still fill the downtown area. The Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, which performers will be local and area musicians. helps to fund the Hastings Live events, was Their live performances are free to watch and compiled and redirected into this program, enjoy. City Manager Jerry Czarnecki said. “Busking refers to musicians playing wilh “We got wilh the Michigan Council for lheir instrument case open in front of them for Arts and Cultural Affairs lo find other arts and lips,” Lavell said. “So, people can give lhe cultural activities we can offer downtown to performers money, but there is no charge to bc able to utilize lhe money,” he said. “There the public because they're essentially street are a couple other ideas floating around, but performers meant to liven up downtown.” • this was one of them.” Along with the lips they collect, the busk­ Another reason for this program is to attract ers will be paid a small amount for perform­ people downtown, Czarnecki said. As the ing, Czarnecki said. ’ businesses are reopening at limited capacity, “They are providing a great service to us the wait time for people is increasing.The live right now,” he said. music w ill provide shoppers and diners wilh Residents are missing the concert series, entertainment while they are waiting, he Czarnecki said, and because Hastings Live added. events drew people from outside the commu­ The live performances can be viewed at nity, this is a way to have some forward locations throughout the downtown Shia. The •“ motion with this new program, lineup ol musicians is not available yet, since Anyone interested in performing down­ town may call Hastings City Hall and ask for the entertainment series has been revamped. “We do not yet have a full schedule because Maiya Merrick, the arts and events coordina­ this is a new program that we’re actively tor for Dan King, community development recruiting for.” Arts Council Executive director. MOur hopes for these live performances is that it will help show what a fun and bustling place our downtown can be in the summer, even without the large concerts we have all come to love. With the buskers, we can contin­ ue to respect social distancing while still having some music downtown." Maiya Merrick, Arts and Events Coordinator Political Office? PROPOSED BUDGET SUMMARY Budget assumptions for the 2020-21 plan being considered for approval by the Hastings Area School System Board of Education Monday night include the follow­ ing: • A $700 decrease in state per-pupil foundation allowance. • An enrollment drop of 75 students from fall 2019. • No Hastings Education Association step increase. • Reduction of seven staff members: Three layoffs and four vacancies left unfilled. • Restructure transportation director position. • Per contract, 3-percent increase for bus drivers. • Hastings Education Support Personnel Association (paraprofessionals) wage­ step freeze. • Administrative wage freeze. • Wage freeze for non-unionized workers. • Curriculum supplies budget reduced by $100,000. • Maintenance equipment repair budget reduced by $100,000. intact as we could and keep teachers." “Bur anything beyond $700, everybody in the district understands it will start impacting everything,” Patton said. “Yes,” Remenap replied. “We just need to make sure were conveying that message very’ clearly in our local media,” Patton said. “Anything beyond $700 per student and then we’re back to the drawing board,” Remenap said. Along with lhe plan for a proposed budget, the committee discussed a variety ol concerns about how schools would run. If they cut a close-contact sport like foot­ ball, would the athletes from that sport flock to another sport like cross-country, Goebel asked. . . That could spark a rise in participation in that sport, potentially creating social distanc­ ing concerns and causing it to bc canceled as . ' cation. Jon Allan, U3. co-chairman of the interna­ tional board who formerly ran the Michigan Office of the Great Lakes, said he’s not sur­ prised to see squabbling emerge on how Michigan will deal with its nutrient manage­ ment problems. How Michigan addresses the problem is up for debate, he said, but, in the end, more . action is needed to protect public health and reduce the pollution that appears in the region’s waterways every summer. “Lake Eric ain’t where it should be," he said, and neither are many other waterways throughout the Great Lakes region. . . ’s ~got to share that burden,___ “Everybody and that includes the way we dispose of agricul-. tural manure.” ■ Running for a CUTS, continued from page 1 that?” Pation asked. “No,” Remenap said. ‘Trust me, we ve _____ _____________ . .................... permit s exemptions amount to “loopholes” that continue to leave area waterways vulner­ able to pollution. Still, Wolf said, the new regulations arc "a step in the right direction” and environmental­ ists want to sec them maintained. As Great Lakes governments aim to grap­ ple wilh the region’s chronic algae bloom problems, reducing CAFO manure pollution has emerged as a key priority for regulators throughout the region. In a report made public in January, the international Great Lakes Water Quality Board published a scries of policy recommen­ dations for states and Canadian provinces to address the problem. Among them: Requirements for “permissible timing and amount of manure application" that could include restrictions on winter appli- We atJ-ad Graphics are ready to help you with your campaign needs. • Advertising Yard Signs • Banners • Flyers Self Mailers such as postcards and brochures well, he said. Kindergartners wearing masks during school may be problematic, Goebel said. Can they expect children, W|lo have thcif fingers everywhere, including their noses and mouths, to go throughout an entire day with­ out messing with the masks on their faces, he asked. Goebel has been investigating the possibil­ ity of different oplx>riunUies for Hastings students in lhe upcomh'l? schooJ year. I le has been looking into online teaching and hybrid learning designs for s,u“ems and families who may bc uncoinfodable about reluming to school. “Our take-home menage js you can-( replace face-to-face learning,” Haywood said. “However, we are going 10 do everything in power to otter alterna’,ve.s - whether it is a hybrid or an online eJucatioii We’re going to tailor it to our .student5mak« H happen." Inserts in the Newspaper Specialty items such as pens magnets, balloons, and more Call 269-945-9554 for more information �Page 12 — Thursday. June 25, 2020 — The Hastings Bannoi New auto insurance means savings for some - but not all; driver s FICO credit score, gender, marital status, occupation, education attainment or homeownership status to set rates. But insurers still can manipulate rates using other c^dit rating systems and factors such as age or driving record. Under Citizens’ filing, if the starting point or a premium — after driving record, age and gender were applied - was $ 1.000, that would mean a Detroiter would pay $6,690 and the Durban Grand Rapids would pay •‘ *°r PIP coverage, based on Citizens’ insurance filings, 'tay d triple or quadruple for *7 ln?ry, an<I property damage while g ineOrJC ,n Farmington Hills would get an percent discount for those coverages. i izcns writes policies in Detroit but “did not previously use ZIP codes as a rating lactor. and therefore did not need to change its procedures in response to the new law.” Clark oliiU • lliere are many factors, in addition to em ory actors, that influence premiums, and ‘•t/ Cannot J* viewed in isolation,” she said. Impact of geography । »US,’ *!? ,ncrease in one specific factor oesn l irectly correspond to an increase in No effect or discount premium. A review of Auto-Owners’ territorial 1 to 25% higher rate ratings showed similar differences: Detroiters still iace far higher rales, often triple what is • 26 to 100% higher rate charged outside the city. AAA has not made its new rates public. • 101 to 400% higher rate The new law allows insurers “to pinpoint their discriminatory pricing even more • More than 400% higher precisely than ZIP code, said Doug Heller, a national insurance expert who studies Michigan filings for the Coalition Protecting No-Fault Auto, a group that opposed the Drivers in Barry County's mid-seclion, mostly Carlton, Rutland, Hastings and reform law. Baltimore townships, as well as portions of Irving, Yankee Springs and Johnstown That will eventually be revealed when townships could see a rate increase of 1 to 25 percent, according to this Bridge people start finding out what they and their Magazine illustration. neighbors are paying.” Not every insurer has gone with smaller average from $337 to $356. But the insurer is 10 percent of customers, however, could see geographies, however. Fanners Insurance, for still able to claim nearly a 15 percent reduction premiums rise. instance, has taken a different approach: It because of the cut to the Michigan Catastrophic “Our rate filing encompassed a variety of had used ZIP codes to set rates but will start factors, including increased bodily injury using municipal boundaries next month. Claims Association fee. Drivers who choose to purchase lesser liability costs that are required by statute, as In Detroit, lhat means some will see a medical coverage won’t have to pay that fee well as PIP options,” spokeswoman Abby distinct savings — and others a big increase. ... at all, a savings insurers can build into other Clark .said,. Before. Farmers’ highest PIP multiplier factor “PIP bhoice is-.a key mechanism for in five Detroit ZIP codes was nearly 4 and the state-mandated rale reductions. Insurers must cut personal injur)' Michigan drivers to realize premium savings,” lowest, in far northwest Detroit, was 1.1. Now protection premiums by an average of at least she said. “Our early results show many the entire city is set at 32. 20 percent for policies with $500,000 in customers electing a choice other than Reform advocates say coverage choices medical coverage, 35 percent for policies wilh unlimited PIP.” permitted under the new law will allow more $250,000 in medical coverage and 45 percent Farmers Insurance told the state its total Detroiters to afford some form of auto for policies wilh S50.000 in medical coverage, premium would drop by an average of 2 insurance and reduce lhe number of drivers an option available only to drivers with percent but indicated that 8,889 of its 18,040 who risk criminal penalties for driving without Medicaid health insurance. policy holders could see no savings or a rate coverage or claim false addresses outside the But those savings are partially offset by increase if they maintain current coverage. city to secure lower rates. another provision of the new law requiring But Farmers wi|l be “offering additional Statewide, only about one-third of the .motorists to purcluse additional bodily injpry । significant discounts iq Michigan drivers who Citizens customers who fyave ^Iready __ , -signed —J; ••liability insurance-' to -protect against rthe ■ dioose lower . for.new.policieHUve.jchosen .nDw.policie^Uwe.jchosen tastickwlfe tastickWlfc, spokesman Luis-.-, upi J ' ' ' ' • unlimited unliiliiled medieprebverage',Clark medxc^d coverage',Clark said. said.^ increased risk of fawsliits. And the stature Sahagun said.' y does not prohibit insurers from increasing “The Michigan aifto reform law also The vast majority are buying policies with other portions of a customer bill, such as changed some rating variables used by $500,000 or $250,000 in personal injury required liability insurance or optional insurers, including changes in the types of protection, she said. collision coverage. discounts drivers may be eligible for.” he said. Risk and reward Citizens calculated that 90 percent of its “As a result, some drivers may see lheir rales For most Michigan drivers, how much customers would see savings of some kind If adjusted downward or upward, depending on they save under the new law will come down they maintain lheir current coverage, including lheir individual situation.” ’ to how much personal risk they are willing to unlimited medical, with total costs falling by /\uto-Owners insurance, meanwhile, told assume. 10 percent or less on most policies. The other lhe state 67,705 of its 114,487 policy holders Drivers who buy policies with $500,000 would sec a rate reduction of more than 10 in personal injury protection will sec the percent if they maintained current coverage medical coverage portion of their bill drop by levels. However, a small fraction - 862 - 22 percent on average, even when factoring in would see a rate increase of 10 percent or the new “default” increases for bodily injury liability coverage, according to an analysis of more. Many of the new increases are due to new both public and confidential filings by the "territory definitions” the insurer is using to state Department of Insurance and Financial set rates based on geography, Auto-Owners Services. The savings could be even larger for reported in a required state filing. households in which all family members have Where drivers live still matters Duggan estimated motorists who opt out Medicare or private health insurance policies of medical coverage entirely could save 30 to that cover auto accidents with an individual 50 percent on their total auto insurance bill, deductible of $6,000 or less. Drivers who provide their auto insurers wilh proof of that Elaine Garlock rendition of the famed poem “Touch of the which could mean hundreds or thousands of health coverage can opt out of personal injury dollars in annual savings. Moming services will begin at Central Master’s Hand.” Coffee hour will resume next protection altogether. But that would still leave Detroiters with United Methodist Church on Sunday, July week. Most congregants wear masks during Motorists who choose lesser coverage are some of the highest rates in the nation, 5, at 9:30 a.m. with the new pastor Rev. the service. The church’s mission board meets Vaughn Thurston-Cox in the pulpit for his first this week at the Swiler home. The National according to estimates he cited showing “playing Russian roulette, and they’re betting appearance to most of the congregation. He Association is having a Zoom session for its average yearly premiums of S4-400 in his city that if they get in a car crash, they will not be seriously injured,” said Stephen Gursten, a has met with the administrative council and the annual meeting June27. The weekly Bible and $1,434 in Illinois. personal injury attorney with Michigan Auto The new law stops insurers from using pastor-staff relations committee a few times in study is resuming, and so is the baby blanket Law in Farmington Hills and a critic of the ZIPcodes to set rates, but left intact the ability recent weeks. Home to him is Wacousta where ministry. new law. his wife is pastor of the community United It is noticeable that the gorgeous flowers of insurers to charge people on either side of While health insurance will cover direct a street vastly different amounts. They just Methodist Church on Herbsion Road. people have been enjoying are getting past their medical bills arising from car crashes, injured First Congregational Church held its second peak. This includes peonies, rhododendron have to use a geographic rnelric olhcr than drivers who choose cheaper auto policies will Sunday service since the covid virus enforced and irises while day lilies are starting toward ZIP codes, and many, including AAA of cessation of services. The Rev. Marilyn their season of resilient blooms. Raspberry Michigan and others, 'vcrc alread* usinS Danielson gave a sermon pertinent to the bushes are showing green fruit, promise of census tracts or even’smaller census block groups. day - Fathers’ Day. Guest David Voesenberg good fruit to come in later weeks. Both are smaller than ZIP codes, and the favored the congregation with a musical practice continues Recent filings with state insurance officials show Detroit residents continue to face huge premiums not seen elsewhere in the state b For instance, Cifizens uses block groups - typically areas of 1PeopIe °f S° Vonda Van Til Public Affairs Specialist SSA’s Supplemental Security Income pro­ PLEASE TAKE NOTICE lhat on Monday. June 29,2020 at 6:45 p.m. the Board of Education Avenue and north f ()ie cities of Hamtramck gram helps children with qualifying disabili­ of die Hastings Area School System will hold a virtual public hearing to consider the system's and Highland citi«ns ,mU "JL ties and their families. For this program, a proposed 2020-2021 budget @ www.hassk12.org. "factors" for p|p Sjj)y injury and pr°P<-'n> child must meet all of the following require­ Hie Board of Education may not adopt its proposed 2020-2021 budget until after the public damage at anywhe^from 4"earIy ' ments to be considered disabled and medical­ hearing. A copy of the proposed 2020-2021 budget, including the proposed property tax if someone dron- 1’11’ coverage, these ly eligible: millage rate, is available for public inspection during normal business hours at 232 West Grand motorists wouli! % f,ce bills quadruple or Hie child must have a medical condition, ^her thun^l^tare ou.side metro Street, Hastings, Michigan. or a combination of conditions, that result in The property tax millage rate, proposed lo be levied to support the proposed budget, “marked and severe functional limitations.” will be a subject of the hearing.’ Meanwhile 1 luburba” and outswte This means lhat the condition(s) must seri­ ;»<»<>ristsgct,(jiS(... (X.yinS^nbstantnilb ously limit the child’s activities, lhe child’s Pursuant to Executive Order 2020-129 all meetings must be held virtually. Public participation is encouraged. The meeting will be streamed using Facebook Jive at lower — k ^poi|p» , «iiev live. In,p^ /±rind Rapids for condition must have been disabling, or be expected to be disabling, for at least 12 Hastings Area School System. Public comments may be typed during the meeting and will be instance. thalf.. Uburt.1|l in saVI"?s .“V* months or must be expected to result in death. read. Community members may contact Ute administration or board trustees by clicking on Percent or ninrf <ln places, including Compassionate Allowances arc a way we their email located at www.ha.ssk12 org. Persons wilh disabilities may contact the Assistant quickly identify diseases and other medical Superintendent of Operations at 269-948-4400 for reasonable aid and services. and southern mitV communities, conditions that, by definition, meet Social This nobce is given by order of the Board of Education. cTiiiesn.m Uns of African Security’s standards for disability benefits. A,™rican raXmh‘gh ffc,eVa,eli Thousands of children receive benefits Jennifer Eastman » Secretary. Board ofEducation because they have one of the conditions on 'liose in Detroit " • Thc nc* baI1s i^ ftOm “ the list, which can lx* found at ssa.gov/comBridge Magazine Many Michigan drivers are poised to save money on auto insurance because of new reforms set to take effect July 2, especially those who choose to accept new risk by purchasing policies with limited or no medical coverage. But insurer filings reviewed by Bridge Magazine staff show some motorists may end up pay ing more to keep their current coverage levels, undermining predictions of universal sax ings. And the new law won’t stop territorial rating schemes that have long saddled Detroit with lhe highest rates in the nation. “If you do nothing, don’t complain about. * Why didn’t my rates go down,”' Mayor Mike Duggan told Detroiters Thursday in a televised town hall, urging them to consider policy changes he had pushed for years. “This law doesn’t cut your rates: it gives you choices,” Thai’s lhe central promise ol the law negotiated by the Republican-led legislature and Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whinner: Michigan motorists will no longer bc required to purchase expensive unlimited medical benefits through auto insurance, and they can opt out altogether if every member ol their household has health insurance that will cover car crashes. . The law also promises to prohibit insurers from setting rates based on a customer s ZIP code, an attempt to stop them from penalizing motorists — most egregiously in Detroit because of where they live. But critics say consumer protection is toothless because insurers are still permitted to set rates based on even smaller geographic areas, such as census tracts or street blocks. For motorists in Detroit, that means even after the new- law lakes effect, insurance rates can still be six times higher than nearby car owners, at least according to the Bridge review of new slate filings. The ZIP code ban was a “farce lo begin with,” said state Rep. Sherry Gay-Dagnogo. a Detroit Democrat who opposed the reform legislation and is exploring a mayoral run against Duggan. “There was no real attempt to address lhe redlining aspect that many African-American communities, and more specifically the city of Detroit, suffer from,” Gay-Dagnogo said. If drivers keep current coverage, the costs could go up Several top insurers, including AAA, Slate Farm and Progressive, are keeping their new rates confidential until they take effect July 2, which the state allows, but those that have been made public so far show lhat not all policyholders will save money. The law requires insurers to cut the personal injur)1 protection, or PIP. portion of cteiwir least 10 percent oniMftage for customers who keep unlimited medical coverage. But stale filings showmany are only reaching that mark by counting an already-announced $120 reduction in an annual fee they assess to cover the state's most expensive injury bills. Citizens Insurance will actually increase lhe underlying cost of personal injury protection for customers who choose to maintain unlimited coverage, raising the Geography still matters Despite a legislative overhaul, auto insurers can still use a motorist's address to determine rates. As one example, Citizens Insurance uses census block groups - small areas of typically 1,500 people - to set rates. As had happened,before, motorists in parts of Detroit see fates up to six times higher than those offered in the suburbs and across Michigan. receive inferior long-term care. Mid Ma fc Browning, an attorney who serves as a leg guardian for catastrophic crash vie im_. g One of her wards. 23-ycar-old Paine,a Ward of Fenton, was severely injured in. 2016 crash and is unable to speak, cat . y food by mouth, or walk. With more than, - . million in costs covered through her auto policy so far. Ward lives in a residential rehabilitation home that specializes in brain injury recoveries and is in speech with the hope of someday being able lo talk anain, Browning said. Another, 32-year-old Cristina McVeigh of Riverdale, did not have auto insurance when she was severely injured in a 2017 motorcycle crash. Medicaid has not covered continued speech therapy and other possible treatments. • Browning said of McVeigh, who lives in a nursing home and spends most of her days in bed watching television. . “Both of these girls are trapped in their own bodies” Browning said, “but Patricia may get the key. She may be let out.” , Duggan has sent all Detroit city employees’ a health insurance letter they can use to opt out of personal injury protection in their auto policies. But he also acknowledged that' drivers who choose lo retain unlimited coverage “will get more service because you’re paying the most,” calling that a value proposition each motorist will need to ' consider. “I think that’s a real American concept of, having a little bit of choice and a little bit of responsibility,” said Sen. Arie Nesbitt,' R-Law ton, who sponsored the reform law and predicted additional savings next year when a new “fee schedule” for medical providers'; kicks in. Michigan medical providers have long billed auto insurers more than health insurers/ who generally negotiate lower rates for similar ‘ treatment and care. ; “With enhanced choices, you accept'enhanced responsibilities, and with lhat. you can acquire enhanced savings,” Nesbitt said. ( The Michigan Health and Hospital*. Association, an advocacy group for medical* providers, is encouraging drivers to keep unlimited medical benefits as they consider, new auto insurance options. “We want people^ to buy as much coverage as they can afford,’SJ senior vice president Rulhanne Sudderth.^ said. “We’ve seen what happens to people^ when they’re severely injured, especially, and'* how much care they need, sometimes for lifetime. •« “We want people to carefully weigh the,J savings versus risk.” New choices for -1 Michigan motorists < Unlimited, $500,000 or $250,000 in personal injury protection: Available to every motorist in the state and determine how- much auto insurers w'ould be required to pay for medical care if someone is injured in a car crash. Private or public health insurance plans would likely cover additional costs but may not pay for the same type of long-term care or rehabilitation as an auto insurance policy. $50,000 in personal injury protection: This option will be available only for Michigan drivers enrolled in Medicaid, a government-run health insurance program for low-income residents. If an individual is injured in a crash, Medicaid would pay his or her hospital bills and cover a basic level of long-term care. $0 m personal injury protection: Motorists enrolled in Medicare Part /V and B - primarily seniors - will have the choice to forego personal injury protection altogether and instead rely on lhe government-run health insurance program to pay medical bills in the event of a crash. It’s an option also available to motorists who have employer-sponsored or individual health insurance that covers car crashes with a deductible of $6,000 or less —- but only if every member of a household also has a form of qualified health insurance, which they would have to prove. 1 SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED 2020-2021 BUDGET 1 Benefits for children with disabilities passionateallowances/conditionsJitm. > A child also must meet other eligibility ‘ requirements. Since we only pay SSI to dis- t abled people with low income and limited I resources, a child, who is not blind, must not 1 be working or earning more than $1260 a’?‘ month in 2020. A child who is blind m7st not’! bc working or earning more than $2 J )0 The% earnings amount usually changes every year** In addition, if the parents of the child or chil-S (ken have more resources than are allowed S then the chdd or children win „o( qualify U)£ SSI. \ou can read more about children’s bcn-»1 efits at ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10026 pdf Visit ssa.gov/people.-parentw to learn mom! about all we do to care for children. for Mw, Mic/iiga,,. n,„ ,wy wri,//ler c/</ ’ HE. Grand Rapids Ml v^.vcmri/(h. vwi.gov. or vi, ...i *1 * * �CE?C, many fitness centers, to open today Burner The basketball ^counfttThe c Education and Recreation CcmcHCERCl’m Hastings High School won’t be openThuSay CERC8aS„ |TOmK P“‘ ‘ tro a, ‘ °lhct »ms and fitness enters across the state of Michigan to begin jeopening today (June 25) 8 Only the weight room and the pool will be open tntua ly at the CERC. and ort^for adult use. The plan ts tor the weight room to open from 6 a.m. until 9 p.m. and lhc 110 n for adult lap swim from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. The lobby will not be open for use other than adults checking in, and there are will bc no open sw im at this time. The gymnasiums wdll not be open for use either. “We re going to do a limited open unless, the governor is appealing lhat (court ruling), at four o'clock today we could find out that we’re not,” CERC facility coordinator Chase Youngs said Wednesday morning. “We’re opening just to basically adult community members. The MHSAA isn’t allowing indoor workouts, so students on sports teams can’t be inside.” Members of the Delton Kcllogg-Thomapple Kellogg-Hastings varsity girls' swimming and diving team have been hosting dry-land w ork­ outs in lhe afternoons on Pierce Field just outside the doors to lhe CERC, and workouts like lhat will have to continue for school sponsored sports teams for now. “We will have social distancing and some safely guidelines and cleaning,” Youngs added. “We will have a staff member up (in the weight room) to help keep everything clean. Some of that onus docs go on the peo­ ple using the gym as far as wiping their stuff down. We will provide all that (cleaning and disinfecting) stuff, like wc normally do. We have always had stuff to wipe stuff down up there.” The CERC is unique in that it has to deal with being attached lo the school building and that it is the home of the Hastings Community Childcare and Preschool, so some extra pre­ cautions need to Ik* taken. “We're not open as a community center yet. open like the public has been accustomed to ” Youngs said, “for obvious reasons.” Adults at lhe CERC will be asked to mind social distancing guidelines throughout the facility. They can check in at the lobby desk. Youngs said there will be hand sanitizer and cleaning spray bottles at the entrance to the weight room. “We are really emphasizing that patrons lake care of their own weights and don’t expect the weight attendant to do it, because that is one less hand touching somebody elsc's stuff,” Youngs said. A federal judge ruled last Friday that gyms and fitness centers across Michigan can begin opening today (June 25), and U.S. District Court Judge Paul Malone, rom the Western District of Michigan, backed up his decision Monday to allow for the openings even as Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s administration appeals to the Sixth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals. Malone ruled that the state did not provide sufficient scientific evidence that gyms pose more of a threat than other indoor businesses and spaces that are being allowed to open. The motion was brought to the court against Whitmer and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services director Robert Gordon by the League of Independent Fitness Facilities and Trainers (L1FFT). “At this point, lhe bare assertion that gyms are dangerous is not enough to demonstrate a ‘real or substantial’ connection to public health, nor is it a set of facts establishing rational basis to justify their continued clo- Mite.’ Mrio* “The Court wishlodi-t^J ||ie Wlfc* momhs h has made. 'VP r *onie and been painful. P.Z'tfvs Q’un Agnizes th < nomically fo’ »Jje '•rideTX Michigan has 11 Mtfiic»,n great Dart. ar^s containing the ^vern°f Whitmer has mad* of the choices words, t^"^’ In lhe Governorandchoices have been based O' r(.spcch ■ and the Court commendsa iencc. or cv ’ . llcn asked what dnu. d cl05u*tn ™?onalc supports the conWn (w) «of indoor gyms, Dcfeniio"1’ danserous ■ p. bc5'°.nd 'trust us. they’re >''^,ing 1 rom that vague statement L< *e. the Court cannot create a s<- wlIh (hc । . ' '> con­ nects the restriction , . 8" mate gov­ ernment interest of P 1 n8 lhe public hC Wade Poland, one o( *hc owners f Fitness on ArlingW" <• « Middleville, said getting cxercis* ove 110rlhe immune system and good for* mental health ^“w/have seen response from people that are «« ® B« back to any kind of physical acU'"> outsttfc of their homes.” Poland sajo-We do plan on being ojxin (Thursday. June 25) with precautions m P cc, Poland said. "Per the governor s P1^ orders we have been able to hold classes outside. Wc arc vcry fortunate to have a very e outside workout area, and wc wc made some investment in some indoor/outdoor carpe mg for area. Wc have been holding °ur outdoor fitness classes for the past couple of weeks. "We are looking for*'*™ to being able to expand upon that and be a little bit more back to normal as of tomorrow. He said his gynt is n150 ,ucty to have large The Community Education and Recreation Center in Hastings is planning to open its weight room and fitness center to community adults and open its pool for adu t ap swim today (June 25) after court rulings allowing gyms across the state to open this week. garage doors on the backside of the building, which get opened up to take advantage of fresh air during periods of nice weather like the area has been experiencing recently. Poland does not expect overcrowding to be an issue, and both staff and patrons will be sur­ veyed about their health and have a tempera­ ture check before spending time in the gym. TriFit in Hastings offered Zoom classes and also has hosted free community workouts at Thomapple Plaza in downtown Hastings. The . fitness center is still working on plans for its reopening. Thomapple Kellogg High School athletic director Brian Hammer said he does not expect the fitness center at the high school in Middleville to be open to the public any time soon because of safely and cost issues. County planning board OKs Mensch request Byrne Harmon of FCC Construction in Caledonia answers questions about the proj­ The Barry County Planning Commission met in person Monday to handle a site plan review on the Mensch Manufacturing request for an addition to its facility in Hastings Charter Township. From left are: Township Supervisor Jim Brown, planning board members Jack Miner, Joyce Snow, Ben Geiger and Chairman Clyde Morgan. (Photos by Rebecca Pierce) On Monday, the Barry County Planning Commission approved a 40.000-square-foot addition to the existing Mensch Manufacturing Holdings LLC structure in Hastings Charter Township. Byrne Harmon of FCC Construction in Caledonia represented lhe applicant at the meeting on the site plan review. The manufacturing facility is located at 2333 S. M-37 Highway, in Section 29 of lhe township. Harmon told the planning commission lhat the addition that will extend 75 feel down the lengih of the entire building. The property owner, Don Mensch, has a lot of new equipment sitting outside, Harmon noted. “He wants to put that equipment inside the ect. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads building,” he said. “He’s not adding on to manufacturing.” Five overhead doors will be moved to the east side of the building. Hannon noted, say­ ing the changes to the facility would not be visible from the street. The project would ultimately add to park­ ing space at the site, he said. James McManus, the county’s planning and zoning director, said the project was “pretty straightforward.” LIMITED TAX PLEDGE NOTICE I PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that there will be a virtual meeting of the Board of Education of Hastings Area School System, Barry and Calhoun Counties, Michigan. At said meeting, the Board of Education will consider for approval its proposed State Aid Note (Limited Tax-General Obligation). The proposed State Aid Note (Limited Tax-General Obligation), if issued, will contain the limited tax full faitfi and credit pledge of Hastings Area School System, Barry & Calhoun Counties. DATE OF MEETING: June 29,2020 MEETING WILL BE HELD VIRTUALLY @ www.hassk12.org HOUR OF MEETING: P-m. L LJli CT] j L *—’ ‘’ OF PRINCIPALNUMBER OFFICE OF THE TELEPHONE 269-948-4400 board 0F EDUCAWN: BOARD MINUTES LOCATED AT THE ARE PRINCIPAL Hastings Middle School OFFICE OF THE BOARD OF 232 W. Grand Street. Hastings. Michigan EDUCATION: Pursuant to Executive Order 2020-129 all meetings must be held virtually. Public participation is encouraged. The meeting will be streamed using Facebook live at Hastings Area School System. Public comments may be typed during the meeting and will be read Community members may contact the administration or board trustees by clicking on their email located at wvAV.hassk12.org. Persons with disabilities may contact the Assistant Superintendent of Operations at 269-948-4400 for reasonable aid and services. te> ■ ■ ... — Chairman Clyde Morgan calls the meeting to order. Ben Geiger listen5 discussion about the Mensch Man^acturlng projecL {ennifer Eastman • Secretary. Board ot Education �Page 14 — Thursday, dune 25, 2020 - The Hastings Bannor Trojans return to turf as one team Brett Bremer Sports Editor Social distancing is bringing the Trojans together. Thomapple Kellogg High School is finish­ ing up two weeks of Summer Re-Acclimation to Athletics Conditioning this week on the turf inside Bob White Stadium in Middleville. * A group of roughly 50 members of the next Schoo! year's junior and senior classes gath­ ered for student-led workouts Wednesday morning beginning at 7 ajn., under the super­ vision of teachers/conches Chad Ruger, Matt Wonders and Jeff Dock . The sessions for next gear's foeshmen/sophomore classes have typ­ ically been a bit larger than the upperclassmen sessions. The freshman /sophomore session was set to get underway at 8:30 aan. ’ “It is cool to sec all the athletes together find not separated into teams and to be able to come out and workout together,” Dock said from the east side of the football field. ”1 think lhat is a huge strength, and ho|K-fully building unity across the board. Coach Wonders talked about it last week, just the fact that we re all Trojans. We’re not football. We’re not cross country right now. We’re all together, and hopefully building that unity across sports is huge.” “It is selling the fact that you don ( have to workout different just because you’re u foot ball player.” Ruger added. “You don’t have to work out different just because you're a vol leyball player. We can all do it at the same time. It has been really cool. Liberty Tctzlaff, one of the students leading the drills from the west sideline, was especial­ ly keen on showing her classmates what kind of effort a cheerleader can put forth. She was joined by fellow TK varsity cheerleader Anna Benedict and softball player Maleah Bailey among the student leadership group Wednesday. BeilC(U . iind Tctzlaff are also track and field aih]d ,s and Bailey also par­ ticipates in golf ilfH| ^Jketball al TK. "We have a class |hnl we call essentials of strength and conditioning.” said> “and a number of thCIn frt)nI have gone through lhat training, and getting cut short in the spring they didn’t rctio finish the class so I think they are enjoying being able to apply some of what they tniuhi have learned. That is pretty cool." ** The jump ropes were imaginary, but the dumbbells were Wednesday morning. T he juniors and seniors carried them off the turf w ith the after their workouts lo be sani­ tized before the freshmen and sophomore class workout Would begin- There is also a COVID-19 servenin.j process to go through before each session, with students filling out a health questionnaire and getting temperature reading before taking Studenl- Thornapple Kellogg High School student-athletes work on strength and conditioning drills on the turf inside Bob White Stadium in Middleville as PE/Health teacher Chad Roger looks on Wednesday morning. (Photo by Brett Bremer) w’!|Cte<t Wcrc spread across the field in a grid 1 1 al least six feet between each other in d ? Workouts began June 15 and ran four thk The Tuesday morning session Thn a. -Was cance^*d due to weather. This «:nn . *S l^c die eight planned ses there Ul atMcdc director Brian Hammer said 0FCf P’Qns 10 extend the conditioning intn t»nS r Une and July I, and possibly Mika a lUre depending on stale orders and MHSAA poJivicSe snnJt Co?^es have plans for some more at th • ?aflc for everyone to go through TK cJre ,niecdng Thursday morning. The Wt‘<in.\. ,,nitiaied the preparations for “W^r \S studcnt-led session last week. hav» it । wcnt based off of what we and th CCn ,ng as our base for the workout our !•»?.WC j.Ust worired all together to pick on th , rc.,ses’’* Benedict said. “Wc did minute Ilwiv*m,nutc ' four exercises. We did lower wn Xi’ r PPCr ^niy), core and cardio. Then ti t k °Ur 5615 tb°sc so we hind of had that base lo go off of.” Bailey said it was awesome to be out with c assmates after a couple months at home. t link when you’re on your own you can obviously work out by yourself, but there is n°l| »v CWInPc,ll*vc atmosphere,” Benedict said. i ou can push yourself, but it is easier to push yourself when you are around other peo­ ple that arc pushing themselves too.” I here is a lot of motivation when you are in front of 40 people,” Tctzlaff added. “For me personally, I don’t want anyone to see me slacking off or taking a break.” The Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) announced June 2 lhat its member schools could being summer activities at school facilities as long as school administrators had announced that facilities were open to students and staff and that lhe academic 2019-2020 academic school year had ended. The outdoor gatherings on school grounds are limited to 100 participants, and a survey in lhe lead-up to the athletics restart at TK quickly revealed that more than one ses­ sion of the re-acclimalion workouts w'ould be needed each day. Competitions are still not allowed under MHSAA rules. Hammer said he can imagine numbers being down in the week ahead as families spread out for the 4th of July holiday. “I think the kids have gotten used to sign­ ing in with the information and lhe tempera- Thornapple Kellogg junior Anna Benedict helps lead her classmates in workouts with dumb bells during the Trojans’ Re-Acclimation to Athletics session Wednesday morning in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) lure, and parents have been really receptive to our process and I fee! good about our process right now. Moving forward, I can’t foresee lhat it is going to stop. 1 assuming we will be taking temperatures and doing this kind of stuff for a while,” Hammer said. “Luckily, we were in pretty good shape with our custodial staff and the supplies that we have for sanitiz­ ing. That has been very helpful.” Hammer is very appreciative of the custo­ dial department which has been able to supply the athletic department with disinfecting wipes and hand sanitizer. “I know a lot of schools didn’t have that stuff and they weren’t able to do things yet because they didn’t have enough. We’re in a good spot,” Hammer said. Geiger endorses Wing m register of deeds race Rebecca Pierce Editor ' Barry County Commissioner Ben Geiger stepped down from his post for a few minutes Tuesday lo endorse board chairwoman Heather Wing for a new elected office. Last year. Wing was picked to chair the county board after Geiger, who had been chairman, was not chosen by fellow commis­ sioners to return to lhat role. ‘ This year. Wing, a Republican who lives in Bellevue, decided not to seek another term on the county board. Instead, she filed to run against incumbent Register of Deeds Barbara Hurless of Hastings, who also is a Republican. The winner of the Aug. 3 primary will face off against Democrat Jordan Brehm, of Hastings, in November. During the first public comment segment of Tuesday’s county board meeting, Geiger gave his endorsement, saying he was “speaking today its a citizen.” ’The county register of deeds office is “in desperate need of change.” he said. “Barb Hurless is a great person, but her policies don’t reflect Barry County values.” Hurless, who was home ill. could not Ik* reached for comment prior lo press lime. Geiger said Wing “has grown to be a close friend and someone I trust professionally and as a taxpayer. Heather Wing understands pub­ lic service in her bones, and I know she has the best interest of taxpayers al heart.” The primary election in August is import­ ant. he said, “so 1 ask you to join me in endorsing Heather Wing and consider pitch­ ing in lo help bring change to the Barry County courthouse.” Immediately following Geiger’s statement on the Zoom connection, a loud exhalation of breath could be heard from an open micro­ phone, then wailing from a cal or a cry ing ask "7 child. These were not the only distractions during the meeting. Tuesday’s meeting, held electronically via Zoom and streamed online via YouTube, fea­ tured connectivity gaps and audio glitches. These have been an ongoing challenge for commissioners since the COVID-19 execu­ tive orders precluded in-person sessions. Commissioner Dan Parker sounded like he was in an echo chamber. Commissioner Vivian Conner pointed out. And Commissioner Howard Gibson’s microphone w^ muted, so he could not be heard by listeners when he cast voles during lhe meeting. Since June 30 is the fifth Tuesday of the month, the board will not have a meeting. Geiger, who was in Della Township during Tuesday’s meeting, suggested commissioners consider meeting in the circuit courtroom, which may allow for social distancing and Iivestreaming. As he was suggesting this, his voice cut out. Wing said, “Your signal is garbled. Sir.” “Can you hear me now?” Geiger said re|>catedly until he heard confirmation. “This is a perfect example of why meeting in person is better.” Then Conner, w ho said she was re-entering the electronic meeting after handling another call, remarked. ‘Tm not exactly sure where we are, but I agree we need to meet in per­ son.” Wing charged County Administrator Michael Brown with figuring out a way for commissioners to meet in person during lheir first meeting in July. In other business, the board: • Noted lhe death of former county com­ missioner and board chairman Ted McKelvey May 28. • Approved a grant agreement between the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency and lhe county to provide up to $25,000 in emergency aid for veterans through the county’s Veterans Service Fund Emergency Relief. “The program is in a spot where it’s able to take advantage of the funds,” Brown said. ”... I appreciate the fact lhat, when something comes along veteran-related, we have what I consider a model program and one that’s always on the edge of what’s going on so we can quickly respond to what’s going on.” • Approved the county Inmates Administrative Services Contract wilh the Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Michigan for July 2020 through June 2021. The agreement allows die county to obtain prescription drugs at discount rates and pharmacy rebates on a quarterly basis. • Responded to a question from county resident and planning commission board member Jack Miner about a $1,837 bill incurred by Sheriff Dar Leaf for legal research ■ < PAYMENTS TO HOME CAREGIVERS CAN CAUSE MEDICAID PENALTIES Why Caregiver Contracts Are a Must Scenario: Wishing lo keep Mom al home • as long as possible, family enters into a verbal agreement with a friendly neighbor to pay $800 per month to provide assistance to Mom with bathing, groceries, food prep, etc. Three years later, Mom needs’ nursing home care, is out of funds, and applies for Medicaid assistance. Result: Under current Medicaid rules, ALL funds paid for caregiving to lhe neighbor (or alternatively, family member) within the last five years before Mom’s application are considered a “divestment for less than fair market value” and will result in a penalty, 'fhe result: Mom will be prohibited from Medicaid benefits she might otherwise be entitled. How to Pay for Caregiving Services and Still Qualify for Medicaid Medicaid divestment penalties can bc avoided with a “Caregiving Contract.” Therefore, for families paying for caregiving services for a loved one, it is essential that there bc a proper contract in place before payment is made for those services. Through our Medicaid planning services, our firm is available to. assist you with the preparation of a qualified caregiving agreement and supporting documentation. If payments lo caregivers have already taken place prior to a written contract being signed, you should consult with lhe our firm to understand the impact that such payments will have on the person’s Medicaid eligibil­ ity and develop a plan to help cover costs during the penalty period. For a more detailed explanation of Caregiving Contracts and our Medicaid planning services, please contact our office and schedule an appointment. Robert J. I-ongstrcet Longstreet Elder Law & Estate Planning p.c. 607 North Broadway Hastings, Michigan 49058 269-945 .3495 by an outside firm. Miner asked why the sher­ iff didn’t use lhe county’s regular legal coun­ sel and whether lhe opinion would be made available to lhe public. Leaf said, “When pandemic hit, I was real­ ly concerned about liability. My concerns were lawsuits against my staff for going out and enforcing anything deemed unconstitu­ tional.” No further questions were posed, and the bill was approved along with lhe rest of the $115366 in claims. • Heard an update from Brown on federal aid coming to Michigan for COVID-19 response. “Ux:al governments that didn’t receive direct federal aid, which includes Barry County, would get $200 million." 'Those funds are intended for counties that qualify to apply for public safely payroll expenditures for April and May, Brown said, noting that they will gather public safety and public health expenditures and submit them for reimbursement by lhe deadline. “Another $100 million was set aside for hazard pay for first responders," he added. The county can apply for these funds for law enforcement and local corrections as well as 911 services through the Department of Treasury by Sept. I. • Heard Brown note that lhe state senate removed the fiscal year deadline from lhe end of July, so lhe county won’t know state finan­ cial implications on the county budget until later in lhe year. • ■ .,•• • x • ■ ■ ,’f Area residents among semi-finalists for state redistricting commission Five area residc 3tc among 200 semifi­ nalists for Michigan-S first independent citi­ zen-.rediMricting commission; I he eommitsin,. ^.mifimilisti- wen. ran domly selected Wednesday by the Michigan Department of Sh, . The random selection was jK-rfonned by Rchmann LLC. the inde­ pendent acconntin,. firm l'ired ""T' ’P ? bidding process to f ,-ilitaie the random seleclion. "Wc i,,': oxtremclv f°r "’e "T'l sands of Michi.,. tho bave been exc,,ed and enga^j1 from the very Ix-’ginning,” ,secrJ."S If.State J^lyn Benson said in a pniSS lary' .^jih this semi finalist velection^^edm'bettextphaMroi "»-• process, a, d ""’''! step <'oscr ,0 !naklng Michigan hil’rc°i lair reprC' P Among ute hometown and „ "" ‘'[filiation- am- wi,h agC- Joseph Antonio Signore, 61, Allo, no affili­ ation. Douglas Tepper, 70, Caledonia, Republican. Linda S. Barton, 51. Middleville, no affili­ ation. Justyne Hershberger, 23, Middleville, no affiliation. The semifinalists were drawn from a pool of 9326 applications. Per lhe Michigan Constitution, the semifinalist poo! must be representative of geographic and demograph­ ic makeup of the slate. The group was required to have 60 applicants who affiliate with lhe Democratic Party, 60 applicants who affiliate with lhe Republican Party, and 80 applicants who do not affiliate with either major party. Data to determine the demographic makeup of the state, and thus lhe criteria for the selec­ tion software, was pulled from lhe 2018 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimate, which is available to the general public via the American Community Survey Data Profiles online search tool. The entire selection process was conducted via livestrcam. with Stephen Blann of Rehmann LLC operating the selection soft­ ware and then matching the 200 selected applicant ID numbers to lhe corresponding applicants in real lime. Video of the process is available on the website and archived on MpOS’s YouTube channel and social media platforms. The 200 randomly selected semifinalist« und their application information hat been made available to the public at RediMrictingMichigan.org. The setnifmaiist applications will now l» delivered u, (he Legislature where leaders in both clambers and parties will'have the month of July to each strike up to five applicants from the ixxd in -accordance with the state Constitution. The’ tinal selection for the 1.1 commissioners will take place in August. A more detailed breakdown of the selection process methodology and answers to other frequently asked questions regarding the sem ilinalist pool can be found at Redi.stnctingMichigan.org. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-07-02.pdf b2e8429b8f5365a4dc2f0a4060fdb9c0 PDF Text Text Hastings schools will tap reserves to balance budget No county board meeting next Tuesday The regularly scheduled Barry County i Board of Commissioners' Committee of the Whole meeting, planned for 9 nan. ? , Tuesday, July 7. has been canceled due to •;' a lack of agenda items. The next rcgular■ ly scheduled county board meeting is expected to Hike place at 9 a.m. Tuesday. July 14. Commissioner Heather Wing, chair- ’ woman of the board, said County Administrator Michael Brown is seeking | * a suitable location that will allow proper J social distancing and live-streaming ;; capability so that commissioners can c meet in person with the public in atten- ■< dance. Wing mentioned a possible site is | Lesson Sharpe Hall in the Barry .1 Community Enrichment Center, 231 „• South Broadway, in Hastings. That site •. is under consideration but has not been f ' ; finalised, she said. ’ J If a suitable site is found that meets all .’ ^^.f.jwfuinemcnUi^iiuu locution with mealing ? ; date and time will be reported and posty ed. she said. I .■ ‘ . Senior legal service offering telephone j interviews Legal Services of South Central I Michigan-Battle Creek office will conduct interviews for legal advice and pos' sible representation, without charge, over :. the telephone for interested seniors who ‘ live in Barry County. ? Seniors who wish to speak with an attorney may call 269-224-5040 between • 10:30 aan. and noon Wednesday, July 8. • Legal Services of South Central / Michigan-Battle Creek office is a nonprofit organization that provides legal assistance, representation and education to seniors in Barry’, Branch. Calhoun and St. Joseph counties. / • I ’’ 5 :• ". 2 $ I I, I S I Summer movie series for teens The 4-H Summer Movie Series is a virtual special interest club where youth age 13-19 will w atch a scheduled movie and then participate in a weekly discussion of the films, curated by Netflix. \ Running July 15 through Aug. 19. the film series presents coming-of-age sto­ ries with a diverse range of topics and genres. The films share universal themes of growth .and self-discovery, and were selected to present differences and expe­ riences faced by teens who live in dissimilar settings and face diverse chaiienges. Teens may sign up for the free pro gram al https:7events.anr.msu edu/4hsummermovic scries. f ; « ; Luke Fronchcck Staff Writer Hastings ?\rea School System joined the ranks of school districts that are pulling from general fund reserves to balance their budgets for the 2020-21 school year. “I've never been more uncertain as I am this year/* Assistant Superintendent of Operations Tim Berlin said during the virtual meeting Monday. In the 2020-21 school year. Berlin said he is anticipating S23.I8 million in revenue and S2437 million in expenditures, which will create a deficit of nearly SI 2 million. To cover the difference, Berlin said the district will have to dip into its $2.7 million reserves and use SI.18 million of that for operating costs, leaving a fund balance of $155 million. . “Obviously, we don’t like to do it, but at least we have fund balance to cut into, Berlin said. ’Die budget is based on a $700 per-pupil decrease in state funding while estimating student enrollment dropping by 75 students. During the 2019-20 school year, Hastings had a student enrollment of 2571. State Rep. Julie Calley, R-Portland, last Friday reported that Michigan Department ot Education Director Michael Rice said the school aid fund is facing a deficit of S2.93 billion dollars - translating into a nearly $685 per-pupil loss of revenue for schools across the state. Like Hastings, the impact hit area school districts’ 2020-21 budgets: Thomapple Kellogg intends to take S946.000 from its reserves to balance its $33 million budget, l-akewood’s SI8.1 million budget will require an infusion of Si.4 million from its reserves. And Delton Kellogg will decrease its reserves by $96584 to balance its SI 1.9 million budget. “Overall, the revenue picture is not bright Berlin told the Hastingsschool board Monday. When he and his fellow administrators put the budget together, several measures were taken to cut expenditures, Part of the budget savings involvcd laying off Stephen Hoke, oistrictwidc program coordinator, and Michael Sali. Performing Arts Center coordinator. Berlin and his team also restructured the transportation director’s position, proposed a wage freeze for all administration and nonunionizxd workers, and reduced curriculum supplies and maintenance equipment repair budgets by S100,000 each. Vacancies created by the retirements of two teachers will not be filled. The assistant middle school principal and high school principal positions, vacant because of resignations, also will not be filled. Superintendent Dan Rcmenap said. “We’re going to have to do more with less next year,” Rcmenap said. “It's not an ideal situation, but it’s our reality and we’re going to deal with it the best we can.” During the Monday meeting, the Hastings board also approved its final budget amendment for the 2019-20 school year. Berlin said the chances of the district being prorated for the 2019-20 school year is diminishing. The slate budget is not required to l»e passed until Oct. 1, he added, so there is a chance the state could cut per-pupil funding for the school year that ended June 30. “ITtis nonsense of be’n? Able to cut school districts after we adopt a final amendment at the end of the budget year is ridiculous,” board member Dan Patton said. "I don’t know what it’s going to take for us to make some changes in Lansing. “I can’t believe the taxpayers out there aren’t more upset about this and why it never gains any traction.” See RESERVES, page 10 Gov. Whitmer unveils back-to-schooO ptam Thylor Owens Staff Writer Michigan school districts have their first answers on what back to school will look like this fall. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer released a Return to School Roadmap Wednesday afternoon, with requirements and recommendations for schools during three different stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 63-page document was created by a panel of educators and public health officials. During a press conference Wednesday. Whitmer called the roadmap a “a comprehen­ sive document to help districts create local plans for in-person learning in the fall.’’ Each phase of statewide reopening under the MI Safe Start Plan corresponds to an edu­ cation plan. The Lower Peninsula is currently in Phase 4 of reopening. If it remains in Phase 4, schools will have in-person learning with social distancing requirements. Phase 4 requirements include: Masks to be worn by staff at all times, except during meals. All students must wear masks during school transportation, in the hallways and other common areas, except See BACK TO SCHOOL, page 10 ■ •• Hastings library reopening Monday After being forced to close for months due to the CO VID 19 pandemic. Hasting'' Public Library is opening for inside services Monday July 6. Temporary hours : will be 10 aan. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday., and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Entry will be through the north doors (East State Street) only. ; The drive-through will remain in ser­ vice during tiie same hours. Material'i may be requested al frodo. licoop.org, haxlingspublidibrary.org, or by emailing Maff^hastingspubliclibrary. org. texting 269-818 8590 or calling 269-945 4263. ; ; e £ Good things come in trees Hastings native Jerry Miller cuts into a cottonwood tree in Tyden Park last week. The 28-foot-tall tree, which has been estimated as about 150 yea'5 Was severely dam­ aged by a storm this spring. The tree has been such an outstaying icon of the park for so long that city officials were trying to figure out a way t0 safely preserve and salvagewhat was left. That s where Miller came in. The woodcarvQr and hjs fjanc(? of Battle Creek were hired to carve a tunnel through the tree. The plan is to add a roof to prevent any further rot. See more about the project on P^e 12- (Photo by Scott Harmsen) Fireworks fill the night sky last Saturday in Lake Odessa. Through community dona­ tions, the Lake Odessa Fair Board was able to host its annual grand finale fireworks show. Thousands gathered at the fairgrounds to watch the show that lasted roughly 30 minutes. This Friday, the Algonquin Lake Community Association will begin its show at approximately 10 p.m. The Middleville Lions Club will sponsor fireworks launched at dusk from the AYSO soccer fields near the middle school Saturday, July 4. Parking is available at the nearby schools. Caledonia also is planning a July 4 fireworks display next to the Cal-Plex recreational complex starting at dusk. (Photo by Luke Froncheck) Airaofllhier f®roa®3feaiirad pewsdfer recommended for multimillion-doliar grant Greg Chandler Staff Writer Another large grant for expanding broadband service soon could be headed to Barry County. ACD.net, a service provider out of Lansing, has been recommended by the Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget to receive a grant from its Connecting Michigan Communities initiative, lhe company is seeking a grant of $4.95 million through initiative, according to a copy ot the grant application on state DI MB s website. A final announcement of grant recipients is scheduled for September. CMIC is offering $20 million in grants to internet service providers who want to exP‘,n broadband access in rural areas ol the state. Providers may seek up to S5 million per giant. ACD has proposed expanding fiber- >as broadband to 1,144 homesand IZObusmcxsu in five Barry Count) township'* » application, a project with an estnna *. *-of S7.75 million. Hie townships are Ha.x • Irving, Rutland. Thornapple and Springs, according to its application. h i, the only MB in Barry County through this pro.is seeking public comment on the m.U.tU c through July 27. , v ,nt.ly <>l country “The se! vice area )- '• ' > :illll roads, farms, subdivisions- • „f which small and medium business, many are home-based.” ACD chief executive officer Kevin Schoen wrote in the grant application. If ACD gains final approval for the grant, it would be the latest award for expansion of broadband service to Barry County. In April, the U.S. Department of Agriculture awarded $11.8 million in grants and loans to Barry County Services Co. for extending broadband to 10 townships in the county, including Thomapple, Yankee Springs and Rutland; Barry County Services was one of two Michigan companies to receive funding through USDA’s ReConnect Pilot prognun, which seeks to expand broadband to unserved and underset ved rural areas of the country . ACD is proposing to offer lull fiber-optic, 1-gigabit service to its proposed coverage area. If approved, it would plan to launch the service in two years, according to the application. To get a handle on the need for expanded broadband service in lhe county, ACD out a survey last year to 5,700 residences in Ban) County and received 370 responses* Schoen wrote in the company's application. “Nearly all residents complained of problematic service or no service. Thus we know the areas that we wish to deploy in have severe problems with broadband deployment, b.i'-cd uprm received customer responses,” he wrote. "While federal government has See BROADBAND, page 3 �Page 2 — Thursday July 2. 2020 — The Hastings Sanner ■ — ■ ■ ■ ■ New downtown sculptures on exhibit o “Hardwoods IF was created by Sam Soet from Traverse City. This 700-pound sculpture is made of ash wood and con­ crete. The “Tree of Life” was created by Richard Morgan from Wauseon. Ohio. It is made out of found objects in steel. UA Blue Migration" was created by Toni Lucaello from Fostoria, Ohio, whose moti­ vation for art comes from different sci­ ence concepts. “Cosmic Ovum” was created by Joel Washing from Toledo, Ohio, who likes to use geometric shapes and patterns in his art. Savanah Kaechele Contributing Writer This year, a total of 27 sculptures. donated and new, are lining the streets of downtown Hastings. The city leases eight new sculptures each year from the Midwest Sculpture Initiative, an organization that works with more than 900 sculptors to provide art for various cities throughout the Midwest. This is the 11th annual sculpture exhibit for the City of Hastings. “It has brought a lot of attention to the city when people come and check out the sculp­ tures,” City Manager Jerry Czarnecki said. The city is able to continue this tradition with the help of the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs which awards grants for arts and culture programs, such as Hastings Live and these sculpture exhibits. The Downtown Development Authority. Thomapple Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts also support this annual exhibit. The new sculptures are available for per­ sonal purchase, or to buy and give as a gift to the city. If a sculpture is sold and the person keeps it, 20 percent of the sale price will go to the city. If the work is donated, the city for­ goes the 20 percent, making the sculpture’s price 20 percent less, Czarnecki said. Over lhe years, the city has acquired 18 gifted sculptures to go along with the new ones added each year. When a new piece is purchased and donated, a donor plaque is cre­ ated to accompany the art. “Nike" was created by Mike Sohikian from Genoa, Ohio. He uses sculpture is made out of a mixture of steel and concrete. ‘ Oak Leaf Arch III" was created by Jim Gullucci from Greensboro, N.C. To select the new sculptures, business own­ ers. residents and others gather to view the options for the year. Around 50 or 60 people are involved in lhe three- or four-round selec­ tion process. Czarnecki said. People interested in participating in the selection process often have lengthy discus-, sions about each option to ensure lhe chosen sculptures fit with the culture of Hastings, he added. “It’s a fun process for the people.” the city manager said. This year’s chosen sculptures include: Buck, The Tree of Life, Kinderbells, Hardwoods II, A Blue Migration. Cosmic Ovum. Conversation Redux, Nike, and Oak Leaf Arch III. The sculptures can be found on various comers in the downtown area. “We really enjoy it, and the community does as well,” Czarnecki said. “Il’s always fun to see the new sculptures.” Conversation Redux" was created by Bob Garcia from Toledo, Ohio. This 400pound sculpture is made out steel and painted with a winter tree scene. Kinderbells” wassteel, created ot “powder-coated and^colorful bel^ar^mnd^T Clty'The sculP|ure is made concepts to |jf0. This industrial pressurized gas tanks. 300 rom tJle tops of condemned �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 2020 — Page 3 Watson Drain project costs nearing $1.6 million David Krebs, seen here June 25 on a TV screen on the Barry County Circuit Court wall, participates in a moti0n hearing on his case from the Barry County Jail. (Photo by Scott Harmsen) David Krebs scheduled for trial July 27 Taylor Owens Staff Writer David Krebs will be tried for attempted murder at 8:30 aan. July 27. before Barry County Circuit Court Judge Vicky ALspaugh. Krebs. 30. of Vermontville, is accused of slitting the throat of 28-year-old Anthony Collins of Middleville, and slabbing him 11 times. During a court hearing in November. Collins testified that he had met Krebs earlier that day. Sept. 5, 2019. Collins said they had been driving around West Michigan with their mutual friend Dalton King. 21. of Lake Odessa. Krebs had been using methamphet­ amine. Collins said. They were on their way back to Hastings, on Barber Road, when Krebs is alleged to have reached from behind Collins and slit his throat. During a June 25 heating. jujg(. A|spaugh granted the Barry' 0 hty assistant prosecu­ tor’s request to bring Sara Smith. 20. of Nashville, in to testily during the trial. Smith was in the back seat of the vehicle, sitting next to Krebs, when the attack is alleged to have occurred. She was taken into custody to ensure that she would be present to testify during the hearing last November. Little's Country Store robbers convicted Taylor Owens Court records indicate Braddum also Staff Writer pleaded guilty last fall to a domestic vio­ Four suspects involved in two robberies lence charge. He was sentenced to 93 days at Little’s Country Store have pleaded in jail and one year of probation, with that guilty. jail term suspended pending successful Jacob Wilhelm Braddum, 19, of Hastings, completion of probation. was found guilty of an armed robbery at the Justin Joshua Miller. 38, of Battle Creek, store on Thomapple Lake, which took place was found guilty of breaking and entering Jan. 6. the store with the intent to commit larceny, Braddum held up the store by acting as if a crime which took place Feb. 22. he had a dangerous weapon, and was arrest­ Miller and an accomplice. Ryan Keith ed al a relative’s residence days later. Harston. 25. of Vermontville, broke into the He was sentenced by Barry County store together and stole nearly S1.000 from Judge Michael Schippcr to sene 24 to 240 a hiding spot. They had been told about the months in prison, with credit for 163 days hiding spot by a former employee of lhe served in jail. He was ordered to pay fines store. .Mandy Gallup. 45, of Nashville. and costs of $1358. including $130 to the Both Gallup and Harston pleaded guilty victim.and $300 in restitution_____ - to- breaking .and entering a building with intent to commit larceny, and are awaiting sentencing. In other criminal offenses, Miller previ­ ously pleaded guilty to two counts of pos­ session of narcotics, in 2008 and 2014. both in Barry County. He also pleaded to posses­ sion of stolen property and resisting arrest in 2011. both cases in Calhoun County. He was sentenced this month by Judge Schipper to serve 117 days in jail, with credit for 117 days served and ordered to pay $1.048 in fines and costs. He was placed on probation for 36 months and ordered lo remain in jail until a tether could Ik placed. His monthly supervision fee will be $30 a month, or $60 a month when elec­ tronic monitoring is used.The judge recom­ mended bopLuunp whep^om is ayailable. Road commission still seefking solutions for North Broadway culvert Greg Chandler Staff Writer Barry County Road Commission officials said they’ll have a better idea by lhe end of next week whether they’ll be able to reopen North Broadway Road, near die Bany/Ionia county border, later this summer. North Broadway has been shut down over the Little Thomapple River in Carlton Township since mid-May after heavy rains washed away rocks and accumulated gravel from the bottom of the culvert. Road Commission crews this week began repairing the bottom of the 16-1/2-foot-wide culvert and doing bypass work lo direct the river around that pipe. “The intention is to pour a concrete slab into that pipe to repair it. and add another pipe next to it for high-flow events,” Road Commission Operations Director Jake Welch said. The Michigan Department of Environment. Great Lakes and Energy had to approve a road commission pennit request to allow the repair work to proceed, Welch said. Once the river is diverted from the existing pipe and it’s allowed to dry. repair crews will inspect that pipe to see how much damage has been done to it, and whether it’s feasible to repair it. “We are pretty sure there will be an option that will lead to a long-term repair which would come with the ability to open the road in a matter of weeks,*’ Welch wrote in an email to the Banner. ”1 lowevcr. the possibility still exists, until the full inspection is completed, that the repair options may not be feasible, and then we are back to figuring out how to fund a bridge.” The repair process also will include lhe use of ground-penetrating radar to analyze the caverns underneath the culvert. Welch said. The project budget for the culvert repairs is about $200,000, Welch said. Motorists may follow Brown or Vedder roads to Messer Road, which runs parallel to North Broadway, during the repair process. A little more about the artists and their sculptures 'Hus year’s chosen sculptures in downtown Hastings are a mix of wood and steel, music and mysticism, nature and imagination. The selections, with information from a booklet for the exhibit. include: • "Buck.” by Jonathan Bowling from Greenville. N.C. is made of repurposed steel and weighs 300 pounds. "For the past 12 years. I have been focused on public art. largely farm animals," Bowling said. "These pieces are made with the intention of staving outdoors in a public area without the need for extensive maintenance. The materials I use arc often from the turn of the last century, which 1 feel is appropriate for depicting animals so intertwined with our agrarian past . "'rhe Tree of Life” by Richard Morgan from Wauseon. Ohio. The sculpture is made out of found objects in steel and weighs 400 ^-rhe best part of being able to create something out of nothing, and making people happy with my art. is lhe best thing about being a” ''jroulerlseils’byToni Kaufmann of Traverse City. This sculpture ’ I out of powder-coated steel and weighs 350 pounds. The ” Tnire combines Kaufman’s passion for music and recycling; the SC'.'| P made from lhe lops of condemned industrial pressurized gas ^7 The brightly colored bells and green stand are meant to give the impression of “ fn)m Traverse City. The 700• ?ardr;ure is made of ash. Soet said he enjoys being outdoors pound sC“ri”xxjs w|)ere he draws inspiration from lhe lines, shapes and movements of wjl)1 materials that are sustainably • I pride myscu ncw (jfe |(>,,fal)en tfce ()r |il|lt) or saving sourced, essen ; .. • (|Jal carefully selects a natural lines. pieces for 1 1C nnjque and serves as a memorial to the tree and a -Each wor ’. 5|ie|lers life and helps to sustain us,” he said, tribute to the by Toni Diane Lucadello from Fostoria, » “A B*—1- ■ r Ohio. The sculpture is made of powder-coated steel and weighs 175 pounds. “My motivation for creating sculptures and Wall designs is based on science concepts ranging from biology 1° theoretical physics. Lucadello said. “Art and science both use the creative process of preparation, incubation, illumination and verification and, therefore, reinforce one another. Whether designing an art object or developing a science experiment, lhe creative process is activated.” • “Cosmic Ovum" by Joel Washing from Toledo, Ohio. Washing said he has a need to create physical. tangible objects, and this 400pound sculpture is made of steel. “I’m attracted to working with steel because of its physical qualities and characteristics. Steel is all at once tactile, solid, smooth, rigid, flexible, permanent and malleable.” Washing said. Tm drawn to geometrical shapes and patterns. Linear planes and crisp angles impose a certain order in a world filled with chaos." • “Conversation Redux” by Bob Garcia lr°m Toledo. Ohio, ’l he sculpture is made of painted steel and weighs 400 pounds. Garcia has pursued drawing, painting and sculpture, all0 which can be seen in this winter scene painted on a metal sculpd)n7 ‘ Merging the various disciplines and popples of art and design bring excitement to my artistic experience, and life jn general,” jK. said. ’ • “Nike” by Mike Sohikian from Genoa, Dhio. Nike is made out of a steel/concrete mix and weighs 800 poun. s. Sohikian is best known for his work salvaged steel. He assembles industrial materials and rewor s t|)e nuuerja|s H1(o fascinating forms. • “Oak 1 caf Arch III" by Jim Gullucci horn Greensboro. N.C. 1 he sculpture is made out of Corten Steel and w^ghs 1 ^(X) pounds. Good art challenges us, can make usrighteous, moves us. soothes us and can bring us peace,” he saidThese sculptures, along with the city’s P^ancm ones, n be viewed on street corners in the downtown area. Luke F’ronchcck high water after heavy min events on Long Staff Writer Lake. So, there are flcxxling issues set to be The effort to lower water levels on Crooked solved with the proposed project. Lake has been going for more than two years Although property owners on Lmg Lake and costs for the Watson Drain project have have said they do not need additional work, reached $1 59 million as of June 22, Deputy the flooding reports and a clogged culvert Drain Commissioner Tammy Hayes said last prove that they do. he said. week. Like residents will only pay for the portions Currently, Drain Commissioner Jim Dull of the project providing benefit to them, said he and engineers are wailing on a permit according to Dull So residents on Crooked they submitted to lhe Department of Lake will help pay for their own pumping and Environment Great Likes and Energy for the work on Cloverdale and Ijong lakes construction of infrastructure on Cloverdale because their flcxxling relief will run through those lakes. and Long lakes. . “We’re still bouncing around screen ideas But the residents on Cloverdale and Long for between the likes,” Dull said. “We’re lakes will only help pay for the work on their hoping to find something that doesn’t have to lakes. “I wish we had better news.” Dull said. be cleaned every couple of days.” Comments from a public hearing were Part of lhe permit includes constructing and submitted to EGLE Tuesday, and Dull said maintaining mesh screens to protect the lakes they have lo wait at least 30 days before they from invasive species and weeds from other would get a permit in hand. lakes. After they receive the permit, he said it As lor lhe project cost. Dull said he is still would take another month to get the project operating under emergency funding because work out for bids and to conduct the days of homes around Crooked Like are still being review for the different lake residents. A day flooded. of review allows property owners to challenge However, none of lhe permits Dull has their tax bills for the work being conducted by obtained have been considered emergency the drain commissioner. permits. “If the houses were dry, we’d be in a “We’re looking at having both day of different situation.” he said. reviews on the same day.” Dull said. For as long as there is an emergency on But the review days cannot come until after Crooked Lake, with houses underwater and the permit is obtained and the various parts of high water levels, he can continue spending the work go out for bid so a more accurate emergency funds looking for a solution. cost can be established. “We’re not sure how the cost breakdown Dull said a best-case scenario would be will work,” Dull said referring to how various having work begin before students are back to lake residents will pay for the project. school in early September. But a more realistic Because of the number of lake residents goal, he said, would be to expect work to affected by the solution project within the begin around late October. Watson and Cloverdale/Long lake drain “There’s not much going on,” he remarked, districts. Dull said engineer Brian Cenci will “other than waiting on our permit.’’ have to find the benefit derived for each of the Before lhe most recent rain. Crooked Lake different lakes and the residents involved. was down to 928.1,4 inches below its highest Dull said he has cleaned an outlet between point. But. after the recent rain, he said he Cloverdale and Long lakes. Several people expects it to have gone up. reported they experienced issues related to AT&T extends high-speed internet service in Barry County /XT&T. through its participation in the Federal Communications Commission’s Connect America Fund, is reporting the exten­ sion of high-speed internet service to more than 69.000 homes and businesses in rural parts of 61 Michigan counties, including Barry County. v In the first four months of 2020, AT&T has continued to expand access to new fixed'-wircless internet services at 10 additional cellular tower sites. It has stated a goal of delivering access to more than 17.000 additional loca­ tions by the end of this year. “Iltese investments are always critical to the success of our communities, but are espe­ cially important right now with the shifting needs of residents and businesses as a result of lhe COVID-19 pandemic,” said slate Rep. Michele Hoilenga, R-Manton, chairwoman of lhe House Communications and Technology Committee. Fixed-wireless internet delivers an internet connection with typical download speeds of 25 megabytes per second. The connection comes from a wireless tower to a fixed anten­ na on a customer s home or business, creating an efTicient way to deliver last-mile high­ speed internet to those who live in under­ served rural areas. Matt Resch, an AT&T spokesman, said lhe number of Barry County homes and business­ es getting the expanded service is “signifi­ cant," but declined to disclose a specific number. BROADBAND, continued from page 1 collected data and providers have reported data, lhe data is fundamentally wrong and inaccurate for Barry County.at least according to every’ end-user that responded." ACD has already laid some of the groundwork for expanding broadband into the county. It has built filler to connect cell towers on lhe western portion of the county, as well as in the Hastings area. Il also has built about 19 miles of fiber from East Grand Rapids, in Kent County, into Barry County, according to the application. “This fiber was built two years ago to connect together a number of cell sites, but is currently only used for cell tower backhaul, but connects into portions of Grand Rapids metro area, and we have backbone electronics deployed. However, it has not been outfitted with equipment and configured to serve homes." Schoen wrote. "ACD will contribute these already-built fiber routes lo bring sen ices to Barry’ County residents." ACD has invested $1.8 million to date into that fiber network, and lhe company plans to invest another $1 million in cash toward lhe project cost, according to the application. Using that existing fiber will help the company decrease lhe amount of construction needed for expansion and speed up the completion oi the project. Schoen added. ACD’s application was endorsed in August 2019 by the Barry County Board of Commissioners. Several businesses and economic development organizations also arc backing the application. “Broadband is (a) constant topic of concern for our citizens,” county board Chairwoman Heather Wing wrote in the county’s letter of support. “The lack of broadband impacts the county in many ways, including difficulty recruiting employees, attracting business development, and encouraging development of necessary’ housing within the county.” Peter Kattula. vice president of operations for Bradford White Corp, in Middleville, the county’s largest employer, wrote in his letter of support that expanded broadband is needed for the county to stay competitive and continue to grow. “The lack of broadband impacts us by being an unnecessary’ negative consideration in recruiting employees who relocate for work.” Kattula wrote. “It also is a major consideration for our suppliers who might consider a satellite operation near our factory." A July 2018 study by Connected Nation Michigan found that 725 percent of Barry County households had access to a broadband service with al least a minimum speed of 10 megabytes per second, which is sufficient for most basic internet functions with a minimal number of devices. However, only 48.5 percent of households met the current Federal Communications Commission broadband standard of 25 Mbps, said Dan Manning, a community technology advisor for Connected Nation Michigan, in an earlier interview with The Banner. DTMB is seeking public comment on its grant recommendations for CMIC through July 27. A comment and objection form can be found online at michtgan.gov/ dtmb.0.5552,7-358-82547_56345_91154 — ,00.html • Traditional and Cremation Services • Pre-Planning Services • Lirge Parking Lot -1 landicap Accessible • Serving All Faiths • Pivarrangcmcni Thuisfers Accept ed 1 TI 328 s. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 269-945-3252 • www.glrrbachfiincT.ilhomr.net I'aniiH Owned atid Operated Hate .. - ..... ne ILiMm.^ n ( omni .mil surrtHiiuling < <»nmumim Rny <iirrh;uli �Page 4 — Thursday. July 2. 2020 — The Hastings Bannv? Did you SCO There’s always reason to celebrate America Foggy Newton morning Jacqueline Muma of Rutland Township took a photo of the sun rising as f<>9 shrouded Newton Lake near Hastings Sunrises and sunsets should be visible for the next several days when temperatures are expected to range from the upper 60s at night to low 90s during the day. with full sunshine. Rain is not In the forecast until next Wednesday. That, of course, could change. Uv'n- dedicating this space io it photograph taken by readers or our staff members that represent* Barry' County , If you have a photo to share, phase send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. MJ3 Highway, Hastings, Ml 4905B: or email ncws^.j-udgraphicsxtun. Plcau include information such as where ami when tin photo was taken, who took the photo, and other relevant or anecdotal information. do you remember? Stars, stripes, shingles and steam Sun and News July 8, 1976 That look of satisfaction on Dave Otto’s face was typical of the attitude most folks had during the bicentennial celebrations this weekend. Otto, at the controls of his steam engine, was the man responsible for the souvenir shin­ gles sold in Middleville. After making his expenses, he donated the rest of the money to the chamber of commerce for its expenses. Have you met? Tom Kramer was twice drawn from California to Michigan. More recently, he has yielded to an ongoing puli to Hastings. His parents immigrated from the Netherlands to Michigan before moving to Bellflower, Calif., where Kramer was bom. He graduated in 1977 from Mayfair High School in Bellflower and moved to Michigan to live with his aunt. “Immediately out of high school, I moved from California to Michigan." Kramer, now 60, said. “I worked hard and lived hard. After a while, I moved back to California and decided 1 needed another change. I just thought the Army would be a good experi­ ence. To this day. I wish there was a way everyone could experience this type of life training.” Kramer was in the U.S. Army from 1979 to 1981. and in the National Guard from 1981 to 1985. Shortly after serving, he start­ ed working for his brother Fred who had a fire and security business in California. “When I got out of the Army. I needed a job, and he was hiring,” Kramer said. “I became his best and most challenging Tom Kramer employee. He taught me a lol, even when he fired me. My dad mediated, so he |Fred] ent. hired me back.” “I’ve .spent many years working hard.” he After working for his brother. Kramer decided lo start his own company in Grand said. “Now 1 like io work less and spend time Rapids. In 1990. he opened Riverside with my family and grandchildren.” For sharing his caring personality through­ Integrated Systems, a fire ahum supply com­ pany that also offers security and communi­ out the town of Hastings, Kramer is this cation services. Since then, Kramer has week’s Banner Bright Light. increasingly directed his interests in Hastings. Person I most admire: There is no particu­ First, he bought a summer home on Algonquin Lake. That eventually became his lar one. 1 admire all lhe people who have primary home. Then he became interested in taught me and assisted me throughout my life some of the old buildings along State Street, lo handle life’s challenges. Greatest thing about Barry County: I’m including the former Second Hand Corners most familiar with Hastings, and it’s been a and Ace buildings. great experience getting to know the good “My entire family tries to invest in real estate. I’ve invested in some commercial people of this city. If I could have any superpower, 1 would buildings in Hastings and Grand Rapids,” he choose: Patience. said. “I enjoy attempting to bring life back Favorite movie: “'True Grit.” or any John into some buildings in downtown Hastings.” Wayne movie. Kramer and his wife, Robin, (the reason he Best advice ever received: One day at areturned to Michigan the second time) have lime. three grown children, Rob. Kathryn and Firs! job; Paper route. Kristina. The three all have kids of their own, I nst real job: Washing dishes in my giving Kramer the joy of being a grandpar- uncle’s restaurant. Book I’d recommend: I’ve read many books. 'l he Bible has been lhe most intrigu­ ing and challenging. Favorite teacher: I wasn’t the best student. Any teacher who tolerated me would be my favorite. Person I’d most like lo meet: I’d love lo have a conversation with Winston Churchill. George Patton or Ulysses Grant. Favorite vacation destination: 1 love lo travel, so my favorite place would be some­ where I haven’t been yet. But I’d go to Huntington Beach, Calif., any time. Greatest song: “I Can Only Imagine. There have been many great songs, bui this one really makes you think. Favorite thing about my j°b: I’m ^css needed every day. They still like when I come in in the morning, and they also like it when I leave. It’s great. What I’d tell a high school graduate: No matter what you do,do it well and do it hon­ estly. If I were president: I’d avoid what divides us and work on building common ground. Best gift ever received: My chiWren and grandchildren. Favorite dinner: Any food with good com­ pany. My biggest challenge: Controlling my own expectations. / If only I could: Control m>’ own c*Pec,a' tions. When I grow Up I Wanl to be: If I haven’t grown up yer; rm nw if [ want to be grown up. What i d do if | H (||C lottery: Enjoy giving a lot of it away 1 avorite childhood LntoO" 1 had “ sreal dad and still have a They both spent their lives provtdj ‘ for and taking care of their family, pm |(K. )ucky ones. Each week. The Ban.lcr profiles a Person who makes the o>m, " J shine. Do you know someone who Lw be fo"’,red because ol volunteer Knrk fun-loving per­ sonality, for the stories c Jr she has lo tell, or other reasons? v information to Newsroom, Hasting, J.d 4‘X>58; or email ,,ews6'‘ladgntphies^11 Given what this country has been through these past months, there may be those who wonder how joy ous the 244th celebration of this greai nation’s birthday will be this Saturday, July 4. We vc been locked down, pushed out of work, social distanced, and face mask-cov­ ered amid a deadly pandemic that’s still wobbling the re-start to a shaky economy. Fireworks have become all too real in cities across our country’ where protesters for racial justice march in the streets and rioters take advantage of disruption to loot. burn, and tear down monuments that remind them of injustice and intolerance. In a letter to his wife, Abigail, written on the day after lhe Continental Congress voted for independence in 1776, John Adams, our nation’s second president, envi­ sioned what lhe celebration should look like: “(The day) ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with show's, games, bells, bonfires and illuminations, from one end of the continent to lhe other from this time forward for everyone to enjoy.” Adams and every presidenl could not have envisioned a day when that American history and culture would come under attack by extremist groups seeking to revise our great story . Radical groups are taking down statues, commandeering blocks of our cities, destroying public and private property while not thinking, understanding or empathizing with the legacy of people who lived in different times, under different standards, hundreds of years ago. Never mind that thousands of men and women have given their lives to fight for the very freedoms that offer these short­ sighted and intolerant groups the right to protest. Do they really understand the gifts of freedom of speech and expression that Adams and our Founding Fathers envi­ sioned? Do they appreciate and are they thankful to lhe soldiers and diplomats who died and served to ensure those gifts for today’s Americans? On Saturday, we again honor those freedoms. But w hat makes this year’s celebration so difficult is that it comes as citizens are destroying property, pillaging monuments and disrupting com­ munities. , The Fourth of July isn’t just fireworks, parade^. and barbeque(s.’jLabo should be.a' time for a few mohients of reflecubn and contemplation. We need to know more about history than just the names and the stories. We also have lo understand the times in which our history’ took place and we have to offer others - even those who lived a hundred or more years before us — lhe courtesy of our understanding and empathy. Recently, protesters toppled a statue of Francis Scott Key, who w rote our national anthem “The Star-Spangled Banner” after witnessing the bombardment of Fort McHenry by British ships during the War of 1812. As lhe dawn of Sept. 14. 1814, broke. U.S. soldiers raised a huge American flag to celebrate a crucial victory over British forces. Key was unsure who had won the battle because the smoke and haze was so thick, but as lhe sun came up he could see the sight of those “broad stripes and bright stars” that inspired him to w rite a song that would eventually become our National Anthem. Key’s words gave new meaning to a national symbol and his song started a tra­ dition that generations of Americans have used to celebrate our nation. Those who are attempting lo revise history in our streets today claim that Key was a slaveo­ wner and that singing the National Anthem is a celebration of Key’s life rather than a celebration of a great nation that fought hard against the British to gain indepen­ dence. Whatever he was during the time in which he lived, Key’s words have been sung in our lime by superstar artists such as Whitney Houston, Faith Hill. Gladys Knight, Lady Gaga. Beyonce, Marvin Gaye and Christian Aguilera, to name a few. Everyday citizens sing the anthem with pride at sporting events, graduations, and celebrations and even in churches to honor our great nation. l he debate alxiut how we talk about the unfortunate aspects of American history has lx-cn going on for decades, but the recent knocking down of monuments and defacing , memorial sites should concern all Americans, regardless of our political views. What might be next: Religious fig­ ures who represent a history dating back thousands of years shown in the stained glass windows of our churches who don’t measure up to the extremist views being expressed by some today ? Each one of us has our own history some of it we may not be proud of - but that’s life. The idea is to leant from those mistakes so we don’t repeat them and so we strive to become better. To judge history by what happened hundreds of years ago, , according to a set of standards being pushed by extremist groups today, is outrageous. It’s ironic that the very’ battle cry we’re hearing in the streets from these people is a demand for tolerance for themselves and their current causes. , “Freedom is never more than one gener­ ation away from extinction,” warned for­ mer President Ronald Reagan. "We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we I will spend our sunset years telling our chil­ dren and our children’s children what it was once like in the United Slates where men were free." • I Civilization rests on a set of promises, moral promises about how we behave I toward each other and physical promises I about how to use our economic system. We as Americans have promised each other to . treat our neighbors as equals. "After all. there is but one race - human­ ity,” said editor and author George Moore I who went on in his writing to suggest that there is something that all of us can do. We can do it without passing a law. running for office, or forming a committee. And we can do it without anybody's permission. i We can start today by treating each other. I rich or poor. Jew or Irishman. Mexican or Chinese, black or white, as if we believe in I the basic promise, which is America. ! Our nation truly is in upheaval, but out of it will come important and meaningful I progress in Jibw -W'e treat.each .other and I how we look lb ensure opportunity for all. I “Freedom has its life in the hearts, the I actions, the spirit of men,” said former President Dwight D. Eisenhower, “so it must be daily earned and refreshed - else, like a flower cut from its life-giving roots, it will wither and die.” So as we gather together this weekend to celebrate what is still lhe greatest nation on earth, let us remember that, in spite of how these radical groups view our nation’s his­ tory. we will continue to sing our national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner” with pride and the American spirit that has served us for 244 years. Oh, say can you sec by the dawn’s early light What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming Whose broad stripes and bright stars through lhe perilous fight. O'er the ramparts we watched were so gallantly streaming. And the rocket’s red glare, the bombs bursting in air. Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there Oh say does that Star-Spangled Banner yet wave O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave. Fred Jacobs. CEO J-Ad Graphics, Inc. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 2. 2020 — Page 5 . . s ^rrie for new leadership in Yankee ^brings Hastings graduation will be July 23; details still uncertain to the editor smd'"h\’m? te‘l',orial '•» ‘he -Sun and “”d demand iini™ . "r laWn> to step up professionalism and . g.Uar‘U’lee a Icvel of Yankee Spring, Y’rilnl n01 seen in O'er thelaM v. nH'1’,ne ‘.' taken place in th"/ <Iise»ssions have for a change in 1^T.n,,y aboul ,he board. Qualified ;,/>• er,S BP on the township <O determine '7'° serve on the t<«v u-tresl an< willingness to ensure they wouH^ ’’T’"’- n"li 'c,,ed 10 vision, and interest, 1/,. hc chari,c,cr- br°ad goal. tS tllc township as their boaA.it°?sX::'Xth^s "vwn$hip due tn hrinn ‘ l"Ilt Wc‘ arc 1OI’C over" strata and Icadcrs who will demon­ pood of the e t*CC respccl and concern for lhe good of the entire township. to th/or1'C'-^ 3 S^ale candidatcs has risen who will hS,°n to, ?,n for the township board willing nng Ct^,cs’ Professionalism, and a Yank^SS • ° W°rk toScthe' f<* die benefit of YaJ^ee Springs Township. d;^|Cd,n? an^ce Springs” is the slate of can­ didates who will be able to work together with cam spirit so necessary to improve our township. 1 They are: I or supervisor: Rob Hccthuis recognizes he need for positive change and has the edu­ cation, leadership skills, and experience to move Yankee Springs to a higher level. He recently retired as the president of the Gun Lake Protective Association (GLPA). had a professional career as coach at DeltonKellogg for 35 years and was inducted into lhe Michigan High School /Athletic Association Luke Fronchcck Stuff Writer Hastings High School Class of 2020 will graduate on July 23. lhe question is: How will they commemo­ rate commencement? During a virtual board meeting Monday night. Superintendent Dan Rcmenap said he could say for sure (hat graduation will happen on Thursday. July 23. That’s it. The details have to to be worked out. “I know how frustrated you are,” Remenap said to remote access listeners. “I’m so tired OAM, Hall of Fame. For treasurer Deb Mousseau has worked for the township for over 11 years and has served as our deputy treasurer since 2016. For clerk: Mike Cunningham is a former member of our Planning Commission (serv­ ing four years), current vice president of the Barlow Lake Association and has six years of experience its an election inspector, an import­ ant part of the clerk’s job. For trustees: Dave VanHouten is a long­ time member of our Zoning Board of Appeals in Yankee Springs. Larry Knowles grew up in Yankee Springs Township, served as our zon­ ing administrator, and is a current trustee. As a member of the current board, Larry represents the solution, not the problem. Larry also is director of the Gun Lake Area Sewer & Water Authority (GLASWA) and is recognized as a professional by GLASWA board members who. in addition to Yankee Springs, are township supervisors from Orangeville, Martin, and Wayland townships. Il should be noted that the GLASWA board recently evaluated Larry favorably and extended his contract to May 31,2022. (Write Us A Letter: Th© Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: •All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks" will not be accepted unless there Is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire" letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District Stale Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; U.S. mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. He is coinn1,ll^r the^o^’J'.6lhc decorum and transparency )f (he nship bowd and is a strong ",,:^'h«tan’YankecSprin8s mission to w0* ,qeditorial TheAugust201^(^lmcd:..WaIching these pretenders ^jV^hip business so unprofessional A \°nccrn every resi­ dent of the t<”vn5lTmy il does. I, and many o > fellow citizens of Yankee Springs To P- support a slate of candidates that wi he Yankee Springs Township board , ^functional group to a team of *cnSnize profession­ alism. who canuldP°licy without being disagreeable. ’ll strive to develop strategic plans, and Pienjeni projects in a cost-effective manner ror the benefit of our residents. . Please join me 'n s“PPorting Team Yankee Springs in lhe upcoming election on Aug. 4. Every vote is important! of paying it. But I don't know. We’re waiting.” I he event is difficult to plan because they don’t want lo figure out the details, only to have to change them in the days leading up to - or even lhe day of - graduation. Assistant High School Principe! Mike Goggins said they are working on several different options for graduation, including a drive-through or drive-in ceremony. High School Principal Teresa Heide is expected to release more details about their plans for the event by the end of the week, Remenap said. State’s new insurance reforms roll out Michigan drivers will begin to see the people will have the freedom to choose the effects of the state’s car insurance reforms this coverage level that best meets their needs and month. their budget. The best part is, people are sav­ 'Hie new law is expected to lower rates by ing money across the board - even when they giving drivers more choice on personal injury decide to continue purchasing unlimited med­ protection coverage, stopping price gouging ical coverage.’’ on medical services for car accident victims, In addition to the guaranteed savings pro­ combating fraudulent claims and strengthen­ vided under the new law, the Michigan ing consumer protections. Catastrophic Claims Association announced it Michigan’s highesl-in-the-nation car insur­ was reducing its annual per-vehicle assess­ ance rates have been one of the biggest hur­ ment fee of $220 to $100 beginning July 1. dles holding back Michigan families and the The MCCA credited the reforms approved state, State Rep. Julie Calley, R-Portland. by the Legislature for the reduction, which said. put the fee at nearly a 20-year low. “After paying the highest car insurance A review of new coverage level options can rates in the nation for years, Michigan drivers be found online at www.ReducexMiRatesNow. are finally going to gel some relief,” Calley com. said in a press release. “Beginning this week. Greg Purcell, Wayland Preparing for changes in unemployment benefits Nearly 15 million Michigan residents are currently collecting unemployment benefits because of the CO VID-19 pandemic. Through the 2.2 trillion Coronavirus Rescue Package passed in March 2020, those getting jobless benefits have been receiving an extra $600 a week in federal funds on top of state unem­ ployment money. Those benefits are set to expire July 25. Here are a few suggestions from state offi­ cials on coping with financial changes ahead: • Make a New Budget - Having a budget, based on the amount after July 25, is the best way to navigate where the money is going. Formulate a plan, starting with the necessi­ ties: rent, utilities, groceries, etc. • Stick to lhe Plan - Keep track of the money that’s coming in and the money going out. • Use Community Resources - Utilizing the resources available locally can stretch dollars further. Examples: Fresh Food Initiatives and food pantries. Call 211 for a list of local resources. • Build an Emergency Fund - With a newly tightened budget il can be hard to save, but building up even a small fund for emergencies can help. Treat this amount as a “bill” and be sure to budget it as a necessary expense. • Don’t Forget About Taxes - Unlike the $1200 stimulus payments, unemployment benefits are taxable. To avoid the surprise of owing taxes when filing the 2020 lax return, make sure appropriate taxes are being with­ held from weekly benefits. Your Success Ds Our Business Get professional results and unbeatable value from the local specialists in business services! Business Cards • Signs, Banners & Posters • Printing 61 Copying • Laminating • Marketing Materials • Brochures & Handbooks • And Much More! Let us customize your promotional materials here! Contact Ty Greenfield, Steve Skedgell ! or fennie Yonker Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads 269-945-9554 Peters democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 2051099n? nhone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room 720, 1?0 Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 233- 91presidenfs comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Cap77 .......... ..mation line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. Banner TheDenoted Hastings to the Interests of Barry County since 1856 Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. N M 43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 ■ Fax: (269) 945-5192 News and!,^'Lsl: ne^r^^ . ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Frederic Jacobs Publisher & CEO Hank Schuuring CFO .NEWSROOMRebecca Pierce (6*W Kalhv Maurer (Copy MW Burner Editor) Taylor Owens Greg Chandler ads atxoplod Monday through Frxtov 8.30 am to500p.m r‘ Scott Ommen Ty Greenfield Mike Gilmore Colleen Egleston Jennie Yonker Subscription Rates: $45 per year in Barry County $50 por year in adjoining counties $55 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER Send a&ktts changes to P.O. Box tee Hast ngs. Ml 49058 0189 Second C'aiS Postogo Pad at Hastings, Ml 49058 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 MM Hastings ^jANNER Woodland: One Stop Shop (PhChps 66) (M 43 North) Superette Family Fare Speedway MidiWk* Marftetpboe Greg’s Getlt-N-Go Middleville Johnny's Tom’s Hasting Johnny's gMn.UJte Sam's Gournk’i i exS The Dock Store The Marathon Doster County Store Mega Bev penn-Nock Gift Shop WoodiarJ Exp: > CLQtfrddfc Cb;rrda!e Genera! Bran's to Cicik Grotty Pelton* FurwFan? Delun Johnny' fainfeldi PrfflrLevJlfei Prairieville Fast Stop phiips 66 Gas (W. Stale St) phffps 66 Gas Station (M-37 West) Family F**0*5 Station Wa’g^ Qran^eiffllei Orangeville Fast Stop DotcJinSi Goldsuciihys Dvubng General Store Freeport; L & J's ^afshvill^ lading Pt* lat. ' Counny Store Johns s MV Rsmtec; NaMeC Store Cds Lake Qd&w; Lak 0 Express Lake 0-Mdrt lake Odessa Johnny’s Carls Shelbyville: Town & County �Ft: ■ Q Ct fl Michigan bar owners ask patrons to help guard against COVID 19 sp Thursday, July 2, 2020 *—Tbo Hastings Banner Matchun.ilIJU1IC R ..... “We’ve been crin i.f ScoU executive director J/.'(Mich'b’an licensed Beverage Associate !!^w I’m afraid lhesc things that happcile.’ ‘ Harper's and else­ ’n Health officials say they arc not likely fin­ where will add to (|, ,? ished with identifying people who were Pat and ’Irisha Rj|'. (^ners of Harper’s, infected with COVID-19 alter visiting the bar with a list between June 12-20. By Wednesday. news issued u statement |as^' Lk. of improvements they-planning nt the bar. reports were indicating that more than 130 “Our small takes ils role cases had been traced back to the bar. The situation at Harper’s comes as and responsibility jn o(|f. community very Michigan coronavirus case count is ’nos­ seriously - especially \|u-n it comes to the health and safety Of „..r customers and team ing. with an uptick among l^ople under 3( since June 5. From March 1 to June 5, about membersthey said Ellis, of the IrevenfiC association, rep­ 16 percent of Michigan’s cases were among people ages 0 lo 29. But from June 5 through resents about 8.500 establishments »«»the stale June 26. cases in that age group increased to that serve alcohol. A‘boUt 30 percent said when surveyed that t|lev may not survive the almost 31 percent. Overall. Michigan has had 63,870 corona­ coronavirus shutdown that started in March. viruses cases and 5,947 deaths, as ot By June 8. bars and restaurants were allowed . Wednesday. The seven-day average was at 1oop.-na150.perw„tl; 3Ci(y. We re not built t0 survive at 50 percent." 267, the highest the average has been since said Ellis. June 5. . Reopening generated a waVC of bus‘ness, The outbreak in East Lansing raises ques­ ^arS and restaurants tions about how the virus will be controlled he said, but now near college campuses as universities plan to report that traffic is slowing. As a result, he said, many are vigj]ant about adhering to reopen this fall. At the same time, at least three states — social distancing to maintain business and Arizona, Florida and Texas - announced prevent having to close temporarily it a staff they are closing bars amid sharp increases in member falls ill. However, one common problem, he said, is C0V1D-19 cases. That news strikes fear into struggling bars and restaurants in Michigan, customers who refuse to wear masks. , ‘Patrons do what they want to do,” Ellis where they’d been ordered to close from mid­ . h.K W closed dosed to .opmnms. By that thnt IIridaxafterthe bar patrons. By nday after­ noon the count of people affected was up to 63. At 7 p.m. that evening, the total had grown J-A<i Graphics News Service H..- COV1D-19 risk level for lhe Barry ( o.ftit;, atea continues at “medium,” Barry I amn DKtrict Health Department officials rep it. d hicsday. »! Wednesday, Barry County had nine i ■ c$ of ( OVID-19. Since the pandenih lh‘•. a, s4 cases have been confirmed in the VOlHll < . :\-t» have died. Bui Ik- legion that includes Eaton County •n ”»ved to the red Lexel 2 High Risk : w is previously considered at medium r a!th officials said. Eaton has 40 active seven deaths among the 254 total cases Uk i. inc pandemic began. change there was being driven by new •n Eaton and Ingham counties, health < < iM. key factor in the new cases was ' io the reopening of Harper’s • - ! and Bvevvpub in East Lansing, a I bar near Michigan State University. Oi.c customer complained on Thursday. Jtmv IS lo the Ingham County Health iXn-.i; rent: “Bar patron reported no one vc.i; • a mask and little social distancing,” x I .ul. Vail, counts health officer, reading ho-n !vr Ides. ‘ h, » \ (he same day that Vail learned her !• d identified a couple of positive coix>na\:r*. c.«>es from people who’d been at the bar. • H c • rrrtial cases grew into an outbreak as said W.hin a week ot opt-W; reported that rudeness to lhe staff was their top concent. “ 1 hey‘re not there to battle people who say. ‘1 don’t want to wear a mask.”’ lilfis said ot bar and restaurant workers. “It’s veO ‘°ugh for the owners.” . Vail, the county health officer, said there s a solution for bars: Deny entry to an} one not wearing a mask. IvOcal health departments already license •irs and restaurants. Vail said they also have me authority lo add social distancing require­ ments found in Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s executive orders to their licensing standards. Now, Vail said, restaurant inspections will also look for6-feet of distance between tables •nid masks on staff as part of routine enforce­ ment. Her staff is starting that now. and it could result in escalating actions, like hear­ ings and educational sessions, all of which involve costs. The ultimate action could be to close a facility. In the meantime, she’s trying to encourage compliance. Watching the case count climb at Harper’s immediately after its opening signals that everyone in bars and restaurants will ben­ efit from the increased protection coming from masks, she said. uin loo)t to Itast roronwirus spikes H'«‘ 21 fl ad *"'« '“PI*" lhis ,al1 ,n |j1^worrv.nslie said, is that "we’ll have student-aged folks gathering at favorite hang­ outs and off wc go. Among the improvements planned by Harper s is a virtual line management system to control the patrons waiting to enter the bar while standing on city sidewalks, which we have no control or authority over, the Rileys SaNow they look to East Lansing’s outbreak as a sign that they face still tnore vulnerabihlies when it comes to reopening. They now fear being closed again if the virus can’t be managed in group settings, and they want customers to know they consider masks their lifeline, not a political statement. Another closure could be devastating, said -We’re still fearful that is going to happen, he said. “We knew as restaurant owners that people are going to come into our place that have COVII). That's why we’re prepared as best we can with sanitization, lhe cleaning, everything. „ “We just need the public to help us out. y(kea OloituMies SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Celebrating and creating independence medical condition that is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death and have not been denied disability benefits in the last 60 days. If your application was recently denied^ our Internet Appeal application is a starting point to request a review of the determination we made at ssa.gov/bcncfits/disability/appeal. h tail. Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Costs - Some people need assistance with the cost of medications. Apply for Extra Help at ssa.gov/il020. Medicare - Medicare is federal health insurance for people 65 or older, some younger people with disabilities, and people with end-stage renal disease. If you are not already receiving benefits, you should apply within three months of turning age 65 at ssa. gov/benefits/rctirement. Supplemental Security Income is a federal Vonda Van Til Puhlic Affairs Specialist Wc celebrate our nation’s independence July 4. For nearly 85 years, our programs b .< • ,’ ipk'd provide financial independence. Wc contintte to make it easier for you to ec. v .s m»r programs and benefits. Today, apph t<: online is a convenient way to apply L f :x ?cfi!s. ¥•. can go online lo apply for: Rk ” <tmcni or spouse’s benefits - You must be ‘easl 61 years and 9 months in age and want 'Wr benefits to start in no more lhan fotij mdttths. Apply at ssa.gov/relireonline. Disability - Apply for disability at ssa. gm d* -abilityonline. You may use the online applk >li<'n to apply for disability benefits if you ?'c age 18 or older, arc not currently, r t u \ :nr. benefits on your own Social Security r.c.1; ac* unable lo work because of a income program funded by general tax revenues. It is designed to help aged, blind, and people with disabilities who have little or no income. You may be able to apply online if you meet certain requirements. See if you can apply online for SSI at ssa.gov/bcnefits/ssi. Vanda \dn Til is the public affairs specialist far West Michigan. Yau may write her c/a Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids Ml 49525 or via emad to vonda.vontilfassa.gov. yVorship Together ..at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... ST.kOSEOFIJMA < AIttOLIC CHURCH $. 4?.-R» Jefferson. 1”:-tip. 269-945- Father Stephan Pastor 4:30 Mass p.m. rday. Mass 8 and II a.m. S..’ Lead Si , ’.:y Services; School ages; K' /') a.m. Worship Service; Str < r High Youth Gn>up 6-8 p •• , Young Adults 6-9 p.m. pm.. (Children a.m. 269-945-9121. for call Jefferson 10 Worship Street. a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616-690-8609. Email hash fmcr2. gmail.com. Website: ww w.hasting kfrcrmelhodiu. cem. Pastor Brian Teed, Stu­ dent Ministries Director, Emma Miller. Worship Director, Mar­ tha Stoetzel. Sunday Morning Worship: 9am and 10:30 a.m. beginning June 21 until further notice. Due to the current health AWANA crisis, our nursery is temporari­ Kindcrgarten-5th Gi iJek 6:30-8 p.m. StJ.onl Youth Group; , r 10:30 Night Family v.-.lay, '• <> Box 8, Time N. 328 Hastings. Telephone a.m. CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 10:30 a.m. for all Us”. 2635 N. M-43 Hwy., P.O. 9:30 information. Pastor. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of Who jesus Is To The World Around School Woodlawn, Hastings. Xfoscr, . !.i; Wheel­ activities: Youth IMPT1ST CHURCH . Bertrand. Randall chair accessible and elevator. Worship ' Hastings Mat! 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Sunday Sus hy. E. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH Middle 6:30 BiMe Study and Prayer. Church Office 948-8004 ;nfi>rmotion. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH ly closed and we arc temporari­ 301 E State Rd.,PO. Box 273, ly Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott ministries. Our church sanctu­ Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. suspending all Children’s ary is set up for social distanc­ ing. Please keep your family together during the worship Elsie Sage to celebrate 96 years She was bom on July 8, 1924 and graduated from Hastings School in 1942. She has lived in the Hastings Area for most of her life. She has enjoyed playing lhe piano and the organ for local organizations for many many years. Please help her celebrate with a card shower, send cards to 904 W. Walnut St.. Hastings, Ml 49058. she so enjoyed all of your well wishes last year service. We arc a multi-genera­ Ul ID ROCK BIBLE PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH BI RCH OF DELTON M'lu Rd., P.O. Box 765, . • ,jcf of Milo Rd. &S. M­ 431. Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204­ 93 *0 Sunday Worship Service to ,fH > 11:30am, Nursery and ( l .fjr n’sMinivtry. Wednesday ;■••■‘it • BiHe study and prayer 6 30 to 7:30 pm. 2601 Lacey MI 49050. Olmstead. church Road. Dowling, Pastor, Steve (269) 758-3021 phone. Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m. tional church family and under­ stand mean that while outburstss this or pot­ ty-breaks, we arc not inconve­ each child. Tliese bags arc to be taken home or disposed of after 3185 N. Broadway. Hastings, Ml each use. For more information 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship contact die church. Marriage Tfcoriscs exfflb Hmsimts Hastings 945-9554 The Bany County Board of Commissioners is seeking applications from volunteers to serve on the following Boards/Commissions: Conniw.nitxCjJaeetionxAjfe^^ thia information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses:_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Mi 49058. 945-4700 NOTICE nienced by your 1 iulc one. In an effort lo help you, wc arc pro­ Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m. 1351 rforth M-43 Hwy. Jay Harmon Hare, age 77. of Hastings, passed away on June 30, 2020. Jay was born on May 3 ’ 1943 , the son of Gerald and Lctha (Gruesbcck) Hare. lie attended Hastings High School (‘61) and worked at Bliss Company as a Shipping Supervisor, retiring in 2002. Jay enjoyed fishing, lawn care, gardening, birdwatching, sports, reading, growing gladiolas, and long driving trips. He was very proud of his children and grandchildren, coming to many of their activities to support them. Jay is preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and Lctha Hare and sibling, Joy and James 'Diomas. He is survived by his partner of 24 years, Patricia Fcdewa; children. Julie and Ed Woodmansee, Paul and Mindy Hare, and Melinda and Steve Shulls; grandchildren, Greg and Carol Woodmansee. Caillyn and Gabe Sutherland, Alexander and Nicholas Hare, Ellen. Riley, and Matthew ShulLs; great-grandchildren. Harper and Scarlett Woodmansee; Pat’s children. Carl and Liz Fedewa. Myra and Erik Dayus, and Pat’s grandchildren. Kara Fedewa. Carver Fedewa, and Tyhlar LaPratt, A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held Friday. July 10. 2020, al Fish Hatchery Park in Hastings. The family will visit with people from 1-2 p.m. and share stories and have remembrance starting at 2 p.m. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, lo leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbaclifuneralhome.net. could viding weekly activity bags for WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Harry Louis Kaufman was bom in Lansing, Iowa on September 28. 1921 to George and Elizabeth Kaufmari.'Harry had two younger sisters. Belly and Virginia. He grew up hunting and fishing in northeast Iowa along the Mississippi River. He dredged dams and sold them to the local button factory for use in making mother of pearl buttons. Harry served in World War II in the South Pacific as a navigator with Marine Air Group 25, which was a critical lifeline to ground troops in Guadalcanal, New Caledonia, and Bougainville. He mustered out of the Marines in Sail Diego, CA and married his sweetheart. Viola Belle Smith in 1945. He enrolled al the University of Iowa and received a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering in 1949. He was lhe first in his family to graduate from college. Harr) had a successful career in industry’, working as a chemical engineer and plant manager for Goodyear Tire and Rubber in Lincoln. NE; Union Carbide in Oak Ridge. TN: and Babcock and Wilcox and NUM EC in Pennsylvania. At NUMEC, he was one of the pioneers in developing ways to recycle nuclear waste. Harry retired in 1984. and he and Vi moved to Myrtle Beach. SC. In 2(X)0, Harry and Vi moved to Hastings, lo be near his daughter, Nancy J. Marks and her husband, Louis Marks, M.D. Hany and Vi lived a quiet life in Hastings, surrounded by kids, grandkids and great grandkids until June 26, 2020, when Hany died peacefully in his sleep. He is survived by his wife of 75 years, Viola Belle Kaufman: his son. Dr. Gary G. Kaufman: his daughter, Nancy J. Marks; six grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren. There will be a Celebration of Life al a later date. Services provided by Girrbach Funeral Home. Ib leave online condolences visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net. 1301W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 Samantha Marie M-navre. Plainwell and William McKinley Plainwell ■ Jordan Edward n„,WIi. Wayland and Whitney Elizabeth Sch ’ner Wayland Anna Marie CarrinZ.' Ha^ngs and lyler James Ellsworth ha • ’ Ryan Forest Broou’^ashville and Kelli Lynn Gibson, Nashviii Brandon Michael a -„-v Hastings and K-lallLaiaeOH^^ville , Douglas George M-n r Middloville and Kelly Marie ^l!‘i Jj'-ville Clayton Michael v ' '-n-a. Middleville nn;l Rachael Ni4c >”caledonia Megan Kathleen Ij’”^ Mid‘ll<-’vi,le lu,<l ^n'eUavier<-aniuU^’Kil|,ids. 1 general public position Canssratton-Easfimenl; 1 township official or designee DgdJfealtLaniLlIl^^ 1 member Mental Health Authority: 1 member ^Qlid_WasLe__O^rsjgh.LCpmmitU>i: representative 2 general public; I solid waste Applications may be obtained at the County Administration nrfi - •> in , of the Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings; orww b ‘. the tab: 16976856 " ' ’ .: A position on an Advisory R^ViUfln!*^^cr and click on apply; and must be returned no later th m r mJ °r ^oin,n'ss'on July 21, 2020. Cnlacl 2M-MS-1284 for ZSjp** �The Hanhngs Danner - Thursday, July 2. 2020 — Page 7 x f v* ,00,( at the stories and columns on local hlstor In Me Hastings Banner turning j back the 1 PAGES Jfc July 4 holiday a cause for celebrating, 125 years later Though it was limited to ink on news­ print, the July 4, 1901, Hastings Herald had snippets, illustrations, notices and opinion about the holiday, which would be the 125in anniversary of the nation. The Day We Celebrate If the word “celebrate'* is to be given its old-fashioned significance, then the words at the head of this article can hardly apply to the modem Fourth of July. To “celebrate’’ used to imply a tremendous amount of noise and hilariousness, the latter being mostly al the expense of our quondam enemy, the wicked Britishers whom we licked so handsomely in the heroic days of the revolution. Our worthy fathers used to “celebrate’’ with the fife and drum and booming cannon, with fervid oratory and military display. And if they didn’t get gloriously drunk, they at least felt it incumbent upon themselves to indulge in a few toasts to American independence. Of course, there is still something to be found of the old style of celebration. The boy with his firecracker is as ubiquitous as ever, and with his “cannon” cracker far more dangerous. There are still towns to be found where the Fourth of July is celebrated w ith all the old-time features. But. as a rule, it may be said that Americans no longer characterize Independence Day with the noi.se and demonstrativeness of the earlier days of the Republic. Probably a majority of people prefer to spend the day quietly at home or in some private kind of recreation rather than attend a celebration. And yet the conclusion that such a change in the ways of observing the nation’s birthday implies a decline in patriotism would most assuredly be wrong. The celebration of the glorious event that led to independence and a national existence were the first duties for the men who lived in those strenuous days or whose lives reached back to the beginnings of the Republic, and they knew no better way and had no better way to express their patriotic emotions on each recurring anniversary of the Immortal Declaration than by as conspicuous and noisy a celebration of which they could conceive. But as those famous days retire farther and farther into the background of history and later events in our national career claim a part of our thoughts and felicitations, we can hardly expect that the day our fathers used to “celebrate” so noisily will be kept with just die same dclat as of old. Whether this is something to be deplored or not, it must be admitted that the change is a natural one. There is, however, one practice of the fathers, the decline of which is sincerely to be regretted. In olden times, lhe reading of the Declaration of Independence was the most prominent exercise of the day. and the words of the immortal document were listened to with rapt attention by the people. It would certainly be well if the sentiments ot that declaration could be brought home to every American citizen today. There cou e no belter way of celebrating this 1-^ anniversary of our independence I an y sitting down quietly and ^ding Declaration of Independence. In these experiment in governing distant alien1 P^P ’ there is greater need than ever beforeUba those principles of equality and justice men found in the Declaration of In epen be impressed upon the mind and conscience of the whole American people. All good items in up-to-date n.e^^’ start out. “We have been reliably in Such is the case with this item, which is a follows: „ . Uncle Wm. H.H. Heath, a few day* ag . was comfortably snoozing in a ?rk \ ;1 easy chair with his feet upon a rail small boy of mature age. with true ‘h spirit, only thinking of the glorious carefully lighted the fuse of a cannon cracker and more carefully placed the same 1 Heath’s chair. and Of course, there was soon an cxploR then Uncle Harrison performed a of somersault that would have Puzz .. js Buckskin Bill’s rough riders to dupbe _ thus demonstrated dial it isn t jus thing to “snooze” in a chair, especially so dose to the 185th day of the year. 1901, marked 125 years since the Uniled Stales formed. The Hastings Herald reported on local happenings and distant Holiday The Chicago, K» * oo and Saginaw Ry. Will sell tickets W Jt’nsJor onc fare for the round-trip \ • Tickets good to return not L In addition to teg • trams, an extra will leave Kalamazoo W ' and 4 at 7 p.m._ Delton 7:40. Acker»Iolw 7:55. Haslings 8:15. arriving at 8:40. Reluming leave Woodbury ' P[n.. Hastings 9:30. Acker's Point 9:50- Welton 10:05. reaching Kalamazoo at IO:4«P"». For further inform;aiion apply l0 agcnts -H.C. Potter. Traftic Manager Soldiers and Sail0™ Encampment The seventh annual encampment of the Soldiers and Sailor icnic Association of Barrv County will be in Hastings Aug. 21,22 and 23. Every soldier and sailor in Barry County with their families and friends should be present at this encampment. I he soldiers of the Spanish War arc expected to join in the annual gathering. A fine program is being prepared, good speakers secured and every arrangement made for the care and comfort of all who come. The state tents have been engaged, and good accommodations will be provided. Hay. stray and shelter for the horses, sugar, tea, coffee and milk will be furnished free for all. The only charge that will be made for the whole encampment will be 10 cents for a badge, and it is expected that every soldier, sailor and the heads of families who visit us will register and buy a badge. Let every loyal man. woman and child in Barry County come and enjoy the picnic. We will take good care of them. William H. H. Heath (1922-1906) served in the Civil War with the New York Cavalry. But neither his service to his country nor his nearness to 80 spared him when was caught napping on a porch in early July 1901. ' find many opportunities, without technical violation of the agreement, to assert itself over the political and commercial affairs of the island. The American flag will fly in many places. It will be the first emblem of nationality strangers will see when they enter any prominent port. There is no plan to grab Cuba right away, but the annexationists will not be disappointed if there is a row under the new order of things that will make our interference apparently necessary. - Cincinnati Enquirer Much talk but no war When William T. Stead aroused a sensation a few months ago by an article in which he predicted that lhe next great war of the world would be between Great Britain and lhe United States over the abrogation of lhe Clayton-Bulwer treaty, lhe probabilities were laughed at on this side of lhe water. (’The 1850 treaty provided that the U.S. and Great Britain should jointly control and protect the proposed Panama Canal.] Apropos the discussion of lhe ClaytonBulwer treaty, the only treaty diplomats have pronounced a foolish compact, even though its provisions seemed absolutely necessary at the time of its ratification, the London Spectator observes that “the canal will be worked by an American company, every one of the great locks will be worked and controlled by American engineers, every pilot will be an American. Under such circumstances, docs any sane man imagine that, treaty of no treaty, a power at war with America will be able to use the canal? A hostile ship might get as far as the great Nicaraguan lake, but it would never leave until the war was over. These being the plain facts, we cannot sec why we should quarrel with America because she is, as we hold, foolishly anxious to express in words a right which we know she must be able to exercise, and will exercise in fact.” - St. Louis Republic. Finally, not at all related to the July 4 holiday, the following item in lhe “Our Neighbors” section is funny any time. One of Eaton County’s wealthy and influential fanners wfeo has moved in town during the past year, jn order to more thoroughly enjoy the friiiLs of long years of labor, had a novel experience last Wednesday. With his wife, he drove up in front of Lambic’s clothing store, and handing her the lines, stepped across the street to lhe post office. COLUMBIA REVIEWING A LESSON IN UNITED STATES HISTORY. Uncle Sam's female counterpart, Columbia, is depicted giving history lessons in this image from the July 4. 1901. Hastings Herald. While gone, another rig was driven up alongside of the first and one of its occupants alighted, leaving a lady in lhe rig the same as in the first. When our friend returned from the post office, his mind was evidently occupied with thoughts of lhe mail he had received, since he made direct for the seconding, handed the niail to the fair occupant, clirqbed in and taking the lines was about to drive away when told by the lady al his side that she guessed he was making a mistake. - Grund Ledge Independent. Compiled by Kathy Maurer, copy editor. Boa^Xngel City of Hastings "2-Night Free Vacation!” NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING (2628) www.boatangel.com BRING EVERYTHING' YOG LOVE TOGETHER! $19.99 2-YEARTV PRICE GUARANTEE The purpose of the public hearing is to hear comments and make a determination on variance requests by owner, Kirk \V. Gee. of 1706 S. Broadway. 190 CHANNELS Including Local Channels! CALL TODAY For $JOq Gift Card J* 1-855-382-2485 • • The applicant has requested variances from Section 90-831(d)(l) of lhe City of Hastings Code of Ordinances, that if granted, will allow construction of an accessory’ detached building that coupled with an existing detached accessory building will exceed the maximum total square footage allowed in the ordinance; and construction of an addition to an existing detached accessory building that will exceed the maximum building size allowed for a single building in the ordinance. MICHAEL KINNEY PLUMBING Licensed Master Plumber Licensed Journeyman Plumber New construction, remodel, repair, drain cleaning. BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEATERS I accuse Same Day Installation Legal description of said property is: ZIN 110376 & Insured Office (269) 948-2248 -Jftohile (269) 838-5112 BFG AT A PT 703.34 FT W AND 521.21 H N OF F 1/4 POST SEC 19-3-8, TH N 1 DEG 55’ W 438.4 FT TH E 157.43 FT, TH S 31 DEG E 294.28 FT. TH S 197.03 FT, TFIW 289.2 IT TO BEG. | 108” Quilt Backing I many colors, good selection < -Thanh* for your patience fr Tray for Our Ration 218 E. Slate St. Hastings • 945-9673 , • W ___ OPEN Ifantteyftrlay $ ________ < JOprn. :-~~~{JjulatCleanersPJck-UpS]ayon\--------- wjn Notice is hereby given that the Zoning Board of Appeals of the City of Hastings will hold a public hearing during its regular meeting on July 21, 2020 at 7:00 PM, location to be determined. Please see City of Hastings website (hastingsmi.org) for location. Blazing Fast Internet! TJie^ort’i Carlton correspondent reported ’’Everybody is getting for lhc Hoi,nh. c L will go IO Lake Odessa, some to Lowell Inborn"will h0,nc-Ye “r,be wiU Call 269-945-9554 tor Hastings Banner classified ads (donate A Boat oz Car Today! Mild or stormy, steaming or frosty, the weather seems to make its way into newspapers. The Delton correspondent provided an informal record for in 1901: “Our thermometer registered 100 last Sunday al 4:30 p.m. All last week it ranged from 95 to 98.” “This warm weather brings the campers to the lakes in large numbers.” The same writer also hinted at the national holiday on the horizon: “News is a little scarce this week since ocople are getting their work ready to celebrate he Fourth. Some are going to Battle Creek, some to Acker’s Point, but most will g0 t0 Luke Odessa ” American Flag in Cuba The government of the Unite July 4, opinions. Written comments will be received on lhe above equest at Hastings City Hall. 201 East State Street, Hastings Michigan 49058 until 5:00 PM on the day of the hearing. Requests for information and/or minutes of said hearing should he directed to lhe Hastings City Clerk at the same address. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days notice to I lasting* City Clerk (telephone number 269-945-2468) or TDD call relay services 1-800-649-3777. Jane M. Saurman City Clerk �Page 8 — Thursday. July 2. 2020 — The Hastings Banner Jeffrey Thayer-Mitchell Clark. 27, of Hastings, was found guilty of unlawfully driving a motor vehicle as a third-lime habitual offender and sentenced by Judge Schipper to serve 365 days in jail, with credit for 161 days served. He was ordered to pay $398 in fines and costs and placed on 24 months of probation follow ing jail time. He will pay a monthly supervision fee of $30 per month. If he is placed on electronic monitoring, the monthly supervision fee will be $60. Joshua Michael Dix, 31. of Battle Creek, was found guilty of operating a motor vehicle on Assyria Road Nov. 14,2019, while he was intoxicated and a third-time offender. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to 30 days in jail, with credit for one day served and placed on probation for 36 months. He was ordered to pay SI J058 in fines and costs. A charge of operating a vehicle on a suspended license was dismissed. Dix will pay fees associated with the Calhoun County Drug Court and a monthly supervision fee of $30 a month. If he is placed on electronic monitoring, the fee will be $60 a month. He is scheduled to be released from jail July 16. Joshua Scott Hammersmith. 37. Shelbyville, was found guilty of domestic violence as a third-time offender Oct. 10. 2019, in Orangeville Township. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to serve two days in jail, with credit for two days served. He was ordered to pay $1,058 in fines and costs. Hammersmith was placed on probation for 36 months and ordered lo pay a monthly supervision fee of $30. If electronic monitoring is involved, the fee will be S60 per month. A charge of assault with inlent to do great bodily harm less than murder or strangulation was dismissed. Douglas Jay Havens, 41, of Hastings, was found guilty of attempted uttering and publishing, attempting to pass counterfeit bills or notes March 14 in Hastings. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to serve 31 days in jail, with credit for 31 days served, and ordered to pay $398 in fines and costs. Henry Dale Hook. 56. of Delton, was found guilty of possession of a controlledi substance, methamphetamine, in Orangeville Tow nship Jan. 13. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to 32 days in jail, with credit for two days served. Hook was ordered to pay $358 in fines and costs and placed on probation for 36 months. His driver’s license was suspended for 30 days and restricted for 150 days. A charge of operating a vehicle without a license was dismissed. Hook was placed in the adult drug court program, which involves a fee of $40 a month. Justin Joshua Miller, 38. of Battle Creek, was found guilty of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine, in Haslipgs Dec. 28. 2019, and was sentenced by Judge Schipper to one day in jail, with credit for one day served. His driver’s license w as suspended for 30 days and restricted for 150 days. He was ordered to pay $198 in fines and costs. His monthly supervision fee will be $30 a month; or $60 a month if electronic monitoring is used. Two charges of possessing less than 25 grams of a controlled substance, a mixture of heroin, as a second-time offender, and' operating a vehicle on East Charles Street/ North Michigan Avenue while his license was suspended, were dismissed. John Frederick Mootc. 59, of Big Rapids, was found guilty of delivery/manufacture of a controlled substance, methamphetamine. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to serve 48* to 240 months in prison, with credit for 2141 days served in jail. Moote was ordered lo pay1 $998 in fines and costs. Two charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine, and delivering a controlled subslance, were dismissed. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 I or Sale /> iness Services KASSON 10FT OAK Pool Table, excellent condition. $1,000.00 or OBO. 269-908­ 1654 MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. CARRON SPORT AIR Hock­ ey Table. $300.00 OBO. Phone 269-908-1654. BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements, power washing. 269-320-3890. Wauled PAYING TOP DOLLAR FOR JUNK CARS & TRUCKS, SEVEN DAYS A WEEK! 269­ 967-5744. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: AH kj! etute Acherhxnj in tint rx<*sp»prr is subject k» the Fair H njt Act and the M.ch.f-n C'n I Rights Act v.t,ch c.;tl5C’nci> mule it ! !. advcrt-sc “a»y prtfcir-KC, licxtxi.'xt diwrimiMlitni on rue. u;:vr, Itlifiun. KI. IkLnJ.chf. 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Trau­ ma Focused Practice. Skills in holistic interventions. Some work is currently being done through Telehealth and tele­ phone. Seeing 15-25 clients per week. Team environment. Send resume to: yk.kjshiJlUdK: rtdhvrapymiaiLwin < Garage Sale ESTATE SALE- 65 years of items on farm at 7601 Bayne Rd., Woodland, ML Thurs., July 9, 2020 llam-5pm, Fri.Sal. July lOlh-llth 9am-5pm. Tools, air compressor, antique furniturq, small kitchen ap­ pliances,, vintage glass and much, much more!! All must go!! GARAGE AND BAKE SALE. 7 Families: cupboards w/ counter top, shower, s.s. sinks, new bath counter top w/sink, desk, log bed frame, 2 recliner love seat, homemade candles, lots of material, books. ThursSat, July 2nd-3rd-4th, 2020. 9am-6pm al 7981 S. M-66, Nashville. 4 u tom olive PAYING TOP DOLLAR FOR JUNK CARS & TRUCKS, SEVEN DAYS A WEEK! 269­ 967-5744. GE1 EASY CASH with, extra household goods and tools! Call (269) 945-9554 lo sell your unwanted stuff with a classified ad in this paper. A small group gathered at the Bob King Park Pavilion to hear the state legislator speak. Luke Froncheck v. . . Staff Writer A third ot COVJD-19-related deaths in Michigan have occurred among nursing home patients. State Rep. ju|ie Calley. R-Portland, said when she hosted outdoor office hours in Hastings June 24. “They were our most vulnerable, and we knew that going in,“Calley said. No COVID-19 deaths occurred at Thom;^^::1D ’ ** ; _.astings. In fact. Calley said, there was zero spread ot the novel coronavirus at the facility in Hastings. “They protected their people completely.” she told about 15 people who came to Bob King Park Pavilion to ask questions and hear her speak. “My biggest objection is that nursing homes couldn’t say they weren’t ready for patients. They weren’t confident they could keep the rest of their residents safe.” Calley said. While Thomapple Manor was able to protect its residents,Calley said, that was not the case for many other facilities throughout the state. People in nursing homes would call saying. ”Pm worried about my mom because 1 can’t see her." Cal lev said. “Il is usually the interaction of loved ones that keeps someone present,” she noted. ”1 lost my dad to dementia. He needed us to be in there. He needed Jami liar faces. There are thousands of ihdiw4uil> .who .'haven't .had access to’lheir loved Q»es? While she mentiaied nursing homes allowing their patients to use video devices. Calley said that’s no', enough since residents are sometimes limited lo one call a week “Patients want a hug, not a screen in front of them.” she said. Now. fewer nursing homes are accepting COVID-19 patients, Calley said.but there are Questions concerned a variety of issues on the slate level, including the budget, schools, Enbridge Line 5 oil pipeline, small businesses, and the state GOP’s civil action against the governor over her stay-at-home executive orders. "Pin on record as supporting lhe inilial slay-at-home order, we didn’t know what else to do," Calley said. But, as the restrictions kept piling up and the state of emergency kept being extended, she said her concerns began lo rise. “We’ve never seen an elongated statewide emergency like this." Calley said. “We are in unprecedented timed - and I think we’re all getting tired of the word - but it’s appropriate and I’ll find myself even using it today." Complaints, questions and comments have been flooding her office’s phone lines and email accounts, she said, exceeding 1,000 emails in one day. “It has been an unprecedented opportunity for us to serve 90.000 bosses," Calley said, adding. “It's been like a tsunami." Slate Rep Julie Calley speaks to her One question mentioned to Calley constituents in Hastings last Friday. concerned lhe legal action she and her peers have taken against the governor.The Michigan still some, in certain areas, that are required to State GOP filed a lawsuit against Gov. do so. Gretchen Whitmer for the stay-at-home "Wc need to do a better job of protecting orders, which they say is in violation of □ those Michiganders." Calley said. 1976 law. As she spoke, the sounds of children could Two Jaws mention state of emergencies bp. heard playiqg'-nearby thd ••Tnn^lbvvn one is a 1976 Jaw thin explicitly mentions plasglo'.md. The Slid ot -her office hours was epidemics. Calley said. “You would think that to allow the public to come and maintain lhe world we’re in right now would fall under social distancing and proper precautions. that statute," she said. Last Friday marked lhe first opportunity for The other is a 1945 law that does not Calley to get out into her district and speak to require legislative approval for an emergency constituents,she said. She took the opportunity order to continue, she added. to attempt to summarize other actions on the “While she likes to tell us that she depends state level over the past three months of on science and data, the question is. in terms unprecedented events. of paints and motorboats: ‘Where’s the science and data to say that’s particularly dangerous to public health?’ “ Calley asked. The lawsuit is still working its way through the court system after the slate supreme court declined to hear it. Calley said. She also addressed the Line 5 oil pipeline, owned by Enbridge. that crosses lhe Straits of Mackinac. “We have no safer mechanism to transfer that," Calley said in response to concerns over its environmental impact. “It's an ongoing conversation that’s being had nt the slate level. “I think building a tunnel and encasing it is our best option, but it’s a complicated issue, no matter how you look al it." Follow ing her Friday office hours, in a text message, Calley said there is clear bipartisan support to prioritize school funding in the 2020-21 state budget. Calley said Michigan Department of the mesh from a window screen or even the Education Director Michael Rice said there’s mesh from a bag of onions or oranges. an expected $2.93 billion deficit over a twoOnce you have your bin and deckle, rip year period - translating to cuts of nearly up old paper into one-inch pieces. Use about $685 per pupil for K-12 school districts. two cups of paper to one cup of water. Soak the pieces of paper in water for 30 minutes or even overnight. Next, get a grownup to help you blend this mix lo make a paper smoothie (bill don’t drink it). The goal is to break down the old paper and create a fine pulp, hi paper factories, humans sometimes create a soupy pulp of fibers from wood, lignin (which helps hold the fibers together) and a few chemicals. This helps everything break down into a mixture for pajwr. After vou blend the paper, you can add some small flower petals, tiny seeds oi foixl coloring. Pour the pulpy mix into the bin filled with about three to four inches of water. Hint: More water will make thinner paper and less water will make thicker paper. You can experiment with this a bit. Finally, slide the deckle into lhe water at an angle and lift it up evenly so the surface is horizontal and covered in the pulp) mix. Press the pulp down with a paper towel and then gently remove the towel. Peel off the paper from the mesh and let it dry for a day or so. When it's ready, you can write a mes­ sage or draw a picture for a friend. Write a letter - and start by making paper Dr. Universe: Here is my qUeslion. H°w is P{1Per made? / asked this question because there are different kinds of paper and I'm curious about how it is made. Sincerely Sotutkdii, 9, Michigan Dear Sonakshi, Wc can make paper in l°ls different ways, h often starts with tn*s- 1,1 tact’ (,,lc of lhe first kinds of paper we know about was made in China using raos- P,ants and bark from mulberry trees. These kinds of materials arc made up ot pans called fibers. Fibers are what help give plants strength lo blam| up- Humans who eal plants, such as lettuce or celery, have actual­ ly eaten some of these fibers. A lot of lhe clothes wc wear corilc from p’-‘,K flber>’ ,o°' Plani fibers are called cellulose. Humans aren’t able to digest these fibers because they are really hard to t*eak down' BlU strong fibers arc grv.H tbr making paper. My friend Karen Adam>- a Washington State University gardener, is curious P'Mls. Adams'and her faniil> have 2 missed seeing a |0| f )riciid» and family lately. They decided 1( nuke paper and write some letters. You Can trv H'akinS >‘,ur paper at home. l(X) ' First, you Wt)f w . tu find hin “ something like an vn. ‘ v sJ|ad container or a large plastic tub. Yn,. -u also want to make adedde. 1 his is J ^th a screen-ha. will help you l()nn ,)K.r. To make a frame, you can g|Ul.. ./her popsiele sticks ■>r .Ke an old piUll|v'' ■ Where you W()u| ‘ .Hj put a picture, staple or tuck l)n 1 b. This could be r Dr. Universe Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University's resident siientist and writer at Dr.Uni\me<u wsu.edu or visit her web­ site, askdruniwrse.com. Follow Thje. Hastings Banner on Facebook to keep up to date until the, new edition is printed! ____ has a large row of yellow day lilies edged by Elaine Gar lock the usual marigolds in shades of yellow and The new construction site on M-50 near Eaton Highway, across from Portland Federal gold. Al Congregational services Sunday, Credit Union is adjacent to an existing building used by several previous business Marilyn Nofike sang a solo and played her enterprises. Now, multiple trucks bearing own accompaniment. For the third week, there the logo of Fed Ex arc on site. We will await were guests from another church that has not further developments to Irani what is the yet resumed services. Must congregants wear masks during the service. extent of the new enterprise. There was no fair parade and no Lake Churches on Fourth Avenue now have showy flowers. First Congregational Church Odessa Fair, but the usual fireworks display again has its beautiful peach roses, along with went off on Saturday. June 27. after sundown. some reds. The peach variety last for months. There was the usual variety of shots, plenty They have even been in bloom when some of noise, spectacular displays in the sky and a December snow fell. Up lhe street at Central grand finale with all mariner of formations to United Methodist Church arc red bushes on sec and thunderous bangs at the close. Lilies arc coming into their own with either side of both sets of steps and also near beautiful varieties in bloom. Hydrangea the benches in front of Fellowship Hall. Across town on Jordan Lake Avenue is a bushes are putting forth their white globes switch in flower varieties planted for Jerry ’s which will last for several days. Milkweed Tire and Battery . For more years that side of stalks now have the promise of flowers that the highway has had colorful marigolds. One hopefully will feed the butterflies. How do bed is planted that way this year again, but the the flutter-bys find new plants that were not bed closest to Second Street on lhe east side growing in certain spots last year? �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. July 2. 2020 ■— Pag< Pago 9 Prison reform advocate8 press for early release A. -e—•with pinonx recordedtime nearly ,,u^ inmates ....... 4.(100 COVID-19, is running out for a ballot drive that seeks to allow early release of prisoners with “good time” behavior credits. Now at lhe heart of a federal court battle that’s reached the U.S. 6th Circuit Court of Appeals, lhe measure would undo the 1998 Truth in Sentencing legislation that Michigan inmates serve their mandates Mirhi**-*minimum sentence regardless of their bchasior in prison. Criminal justice ,MUllll auvocatcs say reform advocates say t .a s a cs airier to early release * ase of of prison prison mmates who could be safely let out to relieve crowding during the prison system’s coronavirus outbreak. But when the petition drive stalled for more than two months after Michigan’s March 24 shelter-in-place order, its chief backer conceded there was virtually no chance the drive could collect the 340,047 signatures state law requires to make the November ballot without being granted a time extension. “1 don t think it’s realistic to reach that number in two or three weeks in the middle of a pandemic situation.” said Amani Sawari.lhe Detroit activist who launched the Michigan Prisoner Rehabilitation Credit Act petition drive along with a small band of supporters in January. According to court documents, the drive collected 215.000 signatures before the state shutdown in March. Sawari said that could have put it on a path to meet lhe signature threshold. Michigan’s Constitution spells out the number of petition signatures needed for a ballot initiative, based on the number of votes cast for governor in the previous election. Legal experts say lhe case poses a fundamental question of democratic rights, tested under the unprecedented challenges imposed by COVID-19. But to some petition advocates, it also raises another question: Why are Whitmer and Attorney General Dana Nessel, both progressive advocates of prison reform, opposed to an extension, potentially standing in the way of this measure making its way to the ballot? “There are really two questions here.’’ said University of Michigan law professor Sam Bagenstos, a specialist in constitutional and civil rights. “One is whether it is unconstitutional for the state to apply the standard procedure for qualifying for the ballot in lhe case. The first question is much easier than the second. There is a constitutional right to the ballot rooted in the [U.S. Constitution] First Amendment. “The harder question is, what do you do about it?” The slate - defended by Nes«l - has . ... ■ group’s efforts. continued. to challenge lhe According lo the lawsuit, the Secretary' of State’s office told ballot backers in late March il would neither extend the deadline to collect signatures, which at the time was May 27, nor lower the number of signatures the state would require. Plaintiffs scored a victory June H when U.S. District Judge Matthew Leitman’s found that the state’s strict enforcement of ballot rules during n pandemic lockdown “severely burdened” the plaintiffs’ constitutional right under the First Amendment to collect ballot signatures. The stale responded by offering two options lo lhe petition group. On June 15, the state proposed giving plaintiffs an extra 69 days lo collect signatures, mirroring lhe length of Whitmer’s stay-athome order that was lifted June 1. Bui the state noted lhal even if enough signatures were collected, the question would be put on the 2022 ballot, not this year’s election. Judge Leitman rejected it. The state then proposed extending the fding deadline, but only to July 6, arguing that would be the “absolute latest” the state could receive submitted petitions and still have time to verify signatures before November’s election. Leitman rejected that offer as well June 23. stating it “does not properly remedy the constitutional violation” he found in his June 11 opinion. That prompted the state to seek help from the 6th Circuit, asking the full court to hear its appeal, arguing that lhe First Amendment does not apply lo state control over the ballot process. Asked about Whitmer’s stance on the case, spokesperson Robert Leddy told Bridge in a statement: “The governor does not have power to alter the state Constitution, which she’s taken an oath lo uphold and is why she’s taken the position she has in this case. Her position is not based on her views of this or any other ballot proposal.” Ryan Jarvi, press secretary for Attorney General Nessel, said “we’re deferring comment to our clients, the governor’s office and the [secretary of state].” He added: ”1 just wanted to note that part of the Department of Attorney General’s role is to represent other slate agencies and departments as their legal counsel. The AG’s personal feelings on criminal justice reform have nothing to do with the Department’s obligation to represent our clients when they’re sued.” The prison lawsuit is not the only case challenging the state’s strict adherence to ballot rules during the coronavirus pandemic. A gay rights group trying to put a non­ discrimination proposal before Michigan voters won'. *»»«« butt i, Sentencing between sentence given and prison for vioiatmg parole. MDOC pare' Sentencing between the sentence given and prison for violating parole. MIXX? paroled >«>w aiming J^rvc. judge nearly 2,500 prisoners between March and recently •< *pf gov^ to collect time served. “Now people know that the first number May and has been paroling about 200 signatures b^” con)n ‘n'nt restneuons they hear is al least how long lhe person will prisoners per week, Kramer said. imixised JuiU r Pyemic. As activists push to put ’•g<xxi time” ^Court of gMmhie Stephens serve,” he said. Still, it’s unclear whether repeal or release before voters, Bagenstos, the U-M law ordered the c 0(niniUec 'Pa'r and Equal suspension of Truth in Sentencing would professor, said lhe outcome of the lawsuit Michigan ballot co c 69 more days to dramatically alter Michigan’s prison remains a mystery. collect signatu^5' h thc He said he thought it is “pretty unlikely” population of 35 <492 inmates. That would Pu . Petition drive into According to Michigan lhe full 6th Circuit will opt to hear the case. prisons .spokesperson Holly Kramer, 26578 Usually, he noted, a three judge panel will 1 The 6th Cireu*' ' J11 another ease May inmates had not yet served their minimum hear such appeals before a decision is made lo sentence. Kramer said nearly 1,600 of those have lhe entire bench consider a case 5 that a federal "ted whcn it |old “The Court of Appeals could say there’s a state of Michigan'’ / “Moaecommodatc have positive parole decisions and are awaiting their earliest release date. Nearly constitutional violation here, but we are not candidates trying '^taei^^115' PnnW going to say what the remedy is. At some 5,000 others are serving life sentences. ballot despite the •o the pandemic. Of those who had served their minimum point, there has to be an answer of what lhe In that case. U-3 ln« Judge lerrence sentence, Kramer said 1394 were returned to state is going to do.” Berr had ruled the of Michigan must Riv?candidates m°rC *collect signatures fmd allow cnndidntc^s ubmn 50 percent of ,ht BuMhc 6th Cire0.*1 berg's order went too LEGAL NOTICES far in imposing s.P?C1I1^lruc.tions for how !he STh <he°ou«^ • ,C imPAs the prison suit proceeds, prison reform advocates say the y™^>n Sentencing law hamstrings what ^d^°ns officials can do to keep prisoner*• ana staff safe in response to COVID-19- As of Jync 27, MDOC reported 3 W cases and 68 pnsoner deaths. ’ Passed in an era where tough -on-crime policies prevailed in the administration of GOP Gov. John Engler, Tnith in Sentencing mandates inmates to serve every day of their court-ordered minimum sentence in prison. /Xccording to the Citizens Research Council of Michigan, a Lansing-based nonprofit research group, the Engler-era law resulted in a 20-percenlagc point drop in the slate’s parole approval rate, a doubling in the number of technical rule violators relumed to prison and a rise in the prison recidivism rate. In 2009. Michigan led the nation in length of average state prison time sen ed in a survey of 35 states. “It’s hard to overstate lhe extent to which thc Truth in Sentencing law has impacted MDOC’s ability to respond to COV1D-19,” said John Cooper, executive director of Safe 6 Just Michigan, a Lansing-based nonprofit criminal justice reform advocacy group. “I don’t support the law. I think it should be repealed.” He said he believes Whitmer “has fairly broad authority” to suspend Truth in Sentencing under her emergency authority during the COVID-19 outbreak. Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard pushed for Truth in Sentencing in the late 1990s as a stale senator. He has said he continues to back it. Bouchard told lhe Detroit News there was often “no correlation” before Truth in STATE OF MICHIGAN STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate Decodent's Estate FILE NO. 20-28539-DE FILE NO. 20-28545-DE Estate of Andrew K. Watson. Date of birth: 08/25/1926. Estate of Steven Cook. Date of b-rth: 12/10/1956. TO ALL CREDITORS. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Andrew K. Watson, died 05/07/2020. NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Steven Cook, died May 12,2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will bo forever barred unless presented against tho estate will be forever barred unless presented to William D. Watson, personal representative, or to to Sarah Cook, persona! representative, or to both the both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Suite probate court at 206 W. Court St.. Ste. 302, Hastings, 302, Hastings, and the personal representative within 4 Ml 49058 and the persona! representative within 4 months after tho date of publication of this notice. months after the date of pubiicabon of this notice. Date: 6/22/2020 Date: 6/29/2020 Robert L Byington P-27621 Andrew J. Gordon P60211 222 West Apple Street, P.O. Box 248 1223 Turner St., Ste. 200 Hastings. Michigan 49058 Lansing. Ml 48906 269-945-9557 517-347-7230 William D Watson Sarah Cook 3324 South Tulare Court 848 Beech St. Denver, Colorado 80231 Lake Odessa. Ml 48849 303-378-7208 143458 143636 517-614-2112 STATE OF MICHIGAN SYNOPSIS PROBATE COURT RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP COUNTY OF BARRY REGULAR BOARD MEETING NOTICE TO CREDITORS June 10, 2020 - 7:00 p.m. Decedent's Trust Estate Regular meeting called to order and Pledge of Decedent Lauretta F. Riddle. Date of Birth: November 9.1927. Allegiance. Present: Bellmore, Spencer. Watson, Hawthorne, TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Lauretta F. Greenfield, James. Walters Riddle, who lived at 10790 East Shore Drive, Delton, Approved the Agenda Michigan, died May 20,2020. Approved the Consent Agenda There is no probate estate. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims Monthly Treasurer’s Report Monthly Clerk's Voucher/Payroll Report Approved Michigan Township Association'Annuil' > Dues against Lauretta F. Riddle qr The Fam'/y. Trust dated July 23,1997, as amended and’restated in iotdi1 on September 20. 2005, will bo fbiever'barred unless presented to Richard W. Barta, the named Trustee, within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Adjournment 8:06 p.m. Date: 6/25/2020 Respectfully submitted, Michele C. Marquardt P39165 Robin Hawthorne, Clerk DeMent and Marquardt, PLC 211 E. Water Street. Ste. 401 Attested to by, Financial FOCUS | --------- -— - . .... .......... — Jim Lundin------------------------------ I -"r. ■ Provided by the Barry County offices of Edward Jones Member PC . tembe. SI sipc............................. Jeff Domenico, AAMS® 450 Meadow Run Dr. Suite 100 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-8265 2169 W. M-43-Hwy., Suite A Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 818-0423 Work to achieve your financial independence Over the past few months, just about everyone has felt the loss of some type of freedom, whether it’s be­ ing able to travel, engage in social gatherings or partic­ ipate in other activities we previously took for granted. Still, as we prepare to ob­ serve Independence Day, it’s comforting to realize all the freedoms we still have in this country. And taking the right steps can also help you achieve your financial inde­ pendence. Here arc some moves to consider: • Build an emergency fund, h’s a good idea to create an emergency fund consisting of three to six months’ worth of living ex­ penses, with the money held in a liquid, low-risk account. With this fund in place, you can avoid dipping into your long-term investments to pay for short-term, unex­ pected costs. • Keep your debts under control. Il’s not easy to do, but if you can consistently minimize your debt load, }ou can have more money to invest for the future and move closer toward achiev­ ing your financial liberty. One way to keep your debts down is io establish a budget and slick to it, so you can avoid unnecessary spending. • Contribute as much as possible to your retirement plans. The more money you can save for retirement, the greater your feelings of fi­ nancial independence. So it’s essential that you con­ tribute as much as you can to your 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored retire­ ment plan. At a minimum, put in enough to earn your employer’s match, if one is offered, and even time your salary goes up,’ boost your annual contributions. Even if you participate in a 401 (k), you’re probably also still eligible to contribute to an IRA, which can help you build even more funds for retirement. And because you can fund an IRA with virtu­ ally any type of investment, you can broaden your port­ folio mix. • Explore long-term care coverage. One day, your fi­ nancial independence could be threatened by your need for some type of long-term care. It now costs, on aver­ age, over SI00,000 for a pri­ vate room in a nursing home and more than $50,000 for lhe services of a home health aide, according to Genworth, an insurance company. Most of these costs won’t be cov­ ered by Medicare, either, so, if you want to reduce the risk of seriously depicting all your financial resourc­ es - or burdening your adult children with these heavy expenses - you may want to consider some type of long-term care insurance. You could choose a tradilional long-femi care policy - which can cover a nursing home stay, home health care, or other services - or a hy­ brid policy, which provides long-term care coverage plus a death benefit. • Manage withdrawals carefully. Once you retire, your financial freedom will depend a great deal on how skillful you are in managing thc money in your retirement accounts. Specifically, you need to be careful about how much you withdraw from these accounts each year. If you set a withdrawal rate that’s too high in your ear­ ly years of retirement, you might eventually risk outliv­ ing your resources. So. set a withdrawal rate that reflects your age, assets, retirement lifestyle and other factors. You may want to consult with a financial professional to establish an appropriate rate. As you can see, working toward your financial inde­ pendence is a lifelong activi­ ty - but it’s worth thc effort. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Fi­ nancial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC ★Edward Jones is a li­ censed insurance producer in all states and Washing­ ton, D.C., through Edward D. Jones <<• Co., L.P., and in California. New Mexico and Massachusetts through Ed­ ward Jones Insurance Agen­ cy of California. L.L.C.: Ed­ ward Jones Insurance Agen­ cy of New Mexico, L.L.C.; and Edward Jones Insurance Agency of Massachusetts, LLC. Calley: New law helps efficiently count absentee ballots Slate Rep. Julie Calley’s plan giving local communities a new option to streamline lhe processing of absentee ballots "has been sighed into law. Calley, R-Portland, said city and township clerks throughout Michigan arc expecting a significant increase in the number of absentee ballots they receive following the addition of no-reason absentee voting, which was included in the reforms approved by voters through Proposal 3 of 2018, as well as coronavirus concerns. As a result, many clerks are concerned local election workers will not be able to process absent voter ballots in a timely manner. “We’re working on several reforms to help our local clerks address the increase in absentee ballots while still maintaining the integrity of our elections,” said Calley, who chairs the House Elections and Ethics Committee. “This plan gives communities a new option to streamline the process.” Absentee ballots can be processed in one of two ways - at each precinct or in an absent voter counting board. When they are processed in the precinct, election workers typically feed absentee ballots into the voting machines during lulls or after polls close. By contrast, AV counting boards focus solely on processing absentee ballots all day long. While AV counting boards were previously allowed, communities Were only allowed lo complete the process on their own. The new law spearheaded by Calley allows local governments to leant up with other nearby communities or the county lo establish an AV counting board. “This will give srr*all communities which may not have the Workers or equipment needed to have their own AV counting board - the opportunity to lx*°l their resources with a local jurisdiction, i{ lhey so choose,” CaJley said. Calley noted that workers on AV counting boards must be pf°l*rly trained and arc required to sign an oath not to reveal vote tallies until alter P° close. Additionally, counting boards niu*1 have election inspectors representing both Pan’es, just as polling places do. . House Bill 5141 1S n<>w Public Act 95 of 2020. Kalamazoo, Ml 49007 Larry Watson, Supervisor 143367 (269)343-2106 Richard W. Barta. Trustee 10790 East Shore dr. NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING LLECT A DEBT- ANY INFORMATION WE Delton. Ml 49046 143457 269-271-2930 °BJA,N W,Lt BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE AT THE NUMBER BELOW IF YOU ARE IN ACTIVE MIUTARY DUTY. ATTN PURCHASERS: This sale may be rescinded oy the foreclosing mortgagee. In that event, your damages, if any. shall be limited solely to return °_,he amount tendered at sale, plus interest. NOTICE OF FORECLOSURES ADVERTISEMENT; Notice Is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA236, MCL 600.3212. that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of tho mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on Thursday, August 13,2020. Tho amount due on the mortgage may be greater on tho day ot the sale. Placing the highest bld at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of tho property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on July 23,2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagors): Nathan Carpenter Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender's successors and/' office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Caliber Home SALE: Default has been made in the conditions of a mortgage made by Glona L. Gorman, the Mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee tor Plaza Home Mortgage Inc., the original Mortgagee, dated January 28.2014, and recorded on January 29,2014, as Instrument No. 2014-000834, in Barry County Records, Michigan and last assigned to Lakeview Loan Servicing. LLC as Assignee, as documented by a Corporate Assignment of Mortgage dated May 10, 2020, and recorded on May 11. 2020, as Instrument No. 2020-004715. in Barry County Records, Michigan, on which mortgage there is claimed to bo due and owing as of the date of this Notice, tho sum of Forty Nine Thousand Six Hundred Thirty Three and 85/100 Dollars ($49,633.85). Said premise is situated at 219 N. State Street, Nashville, Michigan 49073 in the Village of Nashville, Barry County, Michigan, and Is described as: LAND SITUATED IN THE VILLAGE OF NASHVILLE, BARRY COUNTY. MICHIGAN: LOT 46 OF VILLAGE OF NASHVILLE, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN UBER 1 OF PLATS. ON PAGE 10. The redemption period shall be 6 months (180 Days) from tho date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCLA 600.3241a, In which case the redemption period shall be 30 days from the date of such sale. Pursuant to Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, if tho property is sold at foreclosure sale the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys tho property at tho mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder under MCLA 600.3278 for damaging tho property dunng tho redemption Loans, Inc. Date of Mortgage: July 12. 2019 Date of Mortgage Recording: September 3.2019 Amount claimed due on date in Township of Carlton, Barry County. Michigan, and described as: Commenong 12 rods West of the Northeast comer of Section 21, Town 4 North, Range 8 West; thence South 13 3/4 rods; thence West 8 rods; thence North 13 3/4 rods, thence East 8 rods to the place of beginning Common street address (if any): 1834 E M 43 Hwy, Freeport. Ml 49325-9414 The redemption period shall be If the subject real property is used tor agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If tho property is so'd at foreclosure salt) under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at tho mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded loss than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing tne mortgage al the telephone number stated in this notice. Tltis notice is from a debt collector. of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Suite 145 mortgage at the telephone number stated in this months abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 a; or, Data of notice: June 18, 2020 contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the 6 from the date of such sale, unless determined period. ATTENTION HOMEOWNER: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period or if you have been ordered to active duty, please notice: of S113.868.72 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 notice. Dated: Juno 16. 2020 For More Information, please call; Matthew R. Reinhardt, Esq. Quintaaos. Prieto, Wood & Boyer. P.A. Attorneys tor Servicer 255 South Orange Avenue, Suite 900 Orlando, Florida 32801 (855) 287-0240 Matter No. 147833 (06-25X07-16) 142940 1416760 (06-18) (07-09) 142752 �Pan-10 - Diursd^y, .iuJy ■ 2020 Rato>er The RESERVES, continued from page 1 ’ V\l' h.nc all ihc>c entities talking about spending in govcnnncnt. and right here ’* U pftve d\ itpk.” Patton b.nd. And the 'tale I f.'^l.nUT could ehnnpe. but xet thex . <h>ft t. l(*s so ft UM rat inf. ” "Yw’re pn-.ich»ng to the choir, buddy,” Rcmc nip s u’d Regardless of potential additional cuts, the b»'.ud hail io approx«' thc final budget amendinonl Beilin <aid ‘he anwndfflcnt w,i< conMruc (CI| expecting no ptoration tiom the sink’ for ihc ?0 19 _T) schtxd ve;a* and include'5 a Wai ot > ''i ('■' nnlHc’t in revenue* and V’ iOnuHi.-n in expend. So the district had ’ to take S .'ox.ts<'9 from ire .$3 million fund Valancp tn cover cosK I'.-.nd mcmlx-t Mike Nickels asked Berlin to elarifx hoa the $89,0X3 in projected sinking funds i.V the 2020 ?1 school year could be used. Ber-*'r> c.hd ihosc funds arc allocnted to spec:tic enpit il projects, such .k a new r«x>f 01 boiler l he funds /.nmol he used for " ago or even minor repairs. Because the slate I egolauire is not required to finalize its huchret until October - "ccks attr: the seliool scat begins -most districts have lo borrow additional hinds in the form ot a st He <vd anticipation note to cover operating < PSls. “l’n»»>rtun.ilc»v. we hiJ'c to do this every scar.” Bcdir. ‘..lid before proposing that the board ;’sk (or a >1 9 million note. In the 20H 20 school scar, thc district received a S2.n million note, which he said was more than enough. Again, this js raking money out of lhe classroom.” P.’.tton said. “Parents, educators, everybody should understand that. It’s son'ethhr: that the Legislature could change - our luil-iime I cgislauirc could change.” Bui. because there could be a potential proration in July or August for lhe 2019-20 school) ear. Be rlin said thc district's attorneys recommended they ask for the increased amount io prepare for any potential proration. h: ether busings. thc board also: - Appointed Sara LaVair as transportation receptionist and Jason Slaughter as a middle school social studies teacher. • \ppro\ed the seven classroom spaces for -Aaain, this is taking money out of the classroom. Parents, educators. everybody should understand that. ifS something that lhe Legislature cod’d change - our full-time Legislature could change.' Dan Pattort board member | E [ | | use bv the Barry Intermediate School District lor unions programming. Hastings charges B1SD $2,074 for cat h classroom per semester. - Transferred Cheryl Brown to a f ifth-grade teaching position due to student needs. \ccepted a S3.(XX)^Lnonymous donation in support of t|le .(*s summer food ptogram ns ■ Approx cd the djMri .fs annual membership resolution |<H th \ . an High School /Mhlctic Associate M,vh’ Approved its ’ . glared fwd service agreement with Lakcw‘x)d Public ScIkxjIs fnr the srrv ices of Po<xl S e Director Matthew Moore. tr - Reported that , jnivc found Rcmenap to be effective ;is ,.liperinicndcnf in their yearly evaluation Uf k: performance. - Conducted t|k. frsJ jading of several minor policy update .. . »CeCeP'?d lhc ie\icnal>ons °r Assislan> Middle School Princjpn| Cortney Coats, maintenance staff I11cinbCr Martin Cappon, and Assistant Hiph h(X)| Principal Joel Smith. Hastings schools freeze wages ( I ; ) : | lhe following arc approved wages, frozen bom the 2()|g^o school year, for adminisuatois and non-unionized woikcrs in die Hastings Area Sch 7i Sxstem: •Superintendent Dnn Remenap. $130,(X)t) ,o ' 'Assistant Superintendent of Student Achievement Matthew Goe^] $|09J66 -Assistant .Superintendent of Operation . Tim Berlin, $107,447 ” ’ -riemcntary Principal Sarah Geukcs. $93,806 -i lernentary Principal Eric Ikidc. SS8.XO9 -Elementary Principal Xmx Smelkcr. $89.741 -Elementary Principal Dana Stem. $90.354 -High School Principal Teresa Heide. $98,863 -Athletic Director and Assistant High Sch<xd Principal Michael Goggins, S95.(>02 -Middle School Principal Beth Stevens. $94,475 -Director of I ood Services Matthew Moore. >85,076 (half of the salary is paid by the (jikewooJ Schools for the shared position) -Child Care Center Director Mary Robinson. $35,568 -Human Resources Manager Eli/.ibcth Row.se. $53.191 -Supervisor of Maintenance Dale Krueger. $54,450 -Transportation Sii|xrr\ isor and head bus mechanic James Vrcug(jc $70,285 -Bus mechanic Chad Aicken. $22.75 per hour -Einancc assiKiate Erin Blakely. $19.09 per hour -Administrative assistant Kellx Tobias. $17.61 per hour -Community Education and Recreation (enter, a transportation supervisor and newly appointed Performing Ans Center facilities coordinator ( base Youngs will receive SCOjOOO, which represents an increase of $ 15.0(H) after he was named facilities coordinator of the PAC. BACK TO SCHOOL, continued from page 1 COVID-19 screening and testing protocols must be coordinated with local health depart­ ments. In addition to those requirements, thc road­ map includes a long list of recommendations, such as maintaining six feet of social distanc­ ing in class, using classrooms for meals and wearing masks during extra-curricular activi­ ties. Whitmer also announced $256 million in new funding for schools to purchase personal protective equipment, cleaning supplies, tech during meals. Student'- in grade*' 6-12 must wear masks inside the classroom. Students in grades K-5 must wear masks in class, unless the} remain in lhe classroom throughout the day. and do not come into close contact with students in another class. Education on ptopcr handwashing with su.'.p and water. Students must use hand sani­ tizer before getting on lhe bus. Facilities and vehicles must be regularly disinfected. Suspension of nil indoor assemblies ot stu­ dents front more rh:ui one classroom. SHIPPING INCLUDED _ _ _ Let's Go Fishing! Stream & Lake i Map of i Michigan i My every angler and boater needs this map aofasof/ifetieey (fe{3}ednHpof2$kni I I J । i For a limited time - get 3 bonuses with each map i sfreaTSp^^es. } i f Rw3$ comped h 1965 attsr 1 a 30 year eftxt by HcmviI HigOee, I a tamer Per- SUS Professor I ProJessa par«^rgfy I pte^byh3fiiihefcca5'/icf 45.000 miies of scares crJo tte । rap. R so^a weS- rntZ J Pinpoint lhe best fishing m Wtegan with { this valuable guide. Easily locate over 5,000 streams and » '/FVB fakes shown on the Stream & Lnke Map. Your map and guidebook will take you to the top 443 select fishing waters-1 se!e"t waters for 14 species of gamefish. bq^(js guide BOOX: nnNIIQ BEPOHT: Finding Secret Fishing Spots u u .wq 4 j tzctjcs and toots you can use to find your own secret spot and catch more fish. 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I use it aR tho trmo ■ ’s drm cane m treasufo to lhe ftahemvin.’ tor rvference. I don’t know of anyttvng more ■ extensive and il is toe most accurate map out! —-2gc Gordon, tbnguJe^ *^ttpQS7i)'<fo TRIBUNE-DEMOCRAT, there as far as streams uro concerned' ’’ । repfisfrenap. — Dow Wolf. PA Rsh and Beat Commission . Johnstown. PA j tette STREAM &i7Ki l.’A? I OF WCB1G/N was crej&J. r"'UM1TEd TIME OFFER - 3 BONUSES WITH EACH MAP") I SHIPPING INCLUDED - ORDER TODAY! ! l I ArtUMe a FoSM P^srALSO AVAiUBLE is h ity giW LlFtlWf GUARANTEED. I J gtas-fite. cfoir-imwtial, suhce wHh brass eyelets lor hingL’tg. i t 1 I | J 1 1 l < I J Michigan 4 FT by 4 FT folded Paper Map(s).............. $34.45 ea ! Michigan 4 FT by 4 FT Laminated Rolled Map(s)........ $49.45 ea « Check of Money ontef enclosed $_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ EACH LAMiMATED ROILED MAP SHIPPED IN STURDY CONTAINER ’ farx_________________________________________ ________ 1 Adtua_______________________________________________! aEZ_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ *: I J-AD GRAPHICS 1351 N. M-43 HIGHWAY HASTINGS, Ml 49058 nology purchases and to pay for health and wellness foe used staff. It lhe Lower Peninsula regresses to Phase 3. schools w ill goback to remote learning, but it it moves to Phase 5. all requirements will become recommendations. Hastings .Area Schools Superintendent Dan Rcmenap said he did not have high expecta­ tions for the roadtuaj), and was left “under­ whelmed” on its reEase. He said the roainap ignored the limited effect of COVID-J9qu children. 1 think requiring students to wear musks is an over-response,unnecessary and borderline cruel. 1 am afraid all of Michigan’s public schools are going to see a dramatic drop in enrollment if these extreme measures are implemented and enforced,” Remenap said. T homapple Kellogg SchoolsSuperintendcnt Rob Blitchok said he is ’’pleased that our stu­ dents will be reluming to our school buildings in the fall.” and his office is currently review­ ing lhe plan. /2\tSntetic s’es^sremeoDte for back to schoo! In addition to requirements for in-person learning, the Return to School Roadmap also outlined rules for athletics during Phase Four of Ml Safe Start: Districts will be required to: • Comply with all guidance published by Michigan High School Athletic Association ami lhe National Federation of State High School Associations • Students, teachers and staff must use proper hand hygiene techniques before and after every practice, event or other gathering. Every participant should confirm that (hey are healthy and without any symptoms poor to any event. ‘ • AH equipment must be disinfected before and after use. • Inter-school comoet»l’ons nia^ provided that facial coverings arc worn if school transportation is provided. Buses must be cleaned and disinfected before and after every use. • Spectators are allowed, provided that facial coverings are used by observers, and 6 feet of social distancing can be maintained a ail times. Attention must g‘ven 10 enl° exit pomiyo prevent crowdingLich participant must use a <-K‘irly marked water bott|e r r individual use. There should be no sharing nf these items. • I landshakes, fig 2 , ms and other unnecessaiy< contact must occur. . , • Indoor weight rJonv and physical condi­ tioning activities th?? squire shared equip­ ment me suspended omdimr physical condi­ tioning activities are .i wed while imuntammg social distancing”0 ’ l arge scale in(L,r spectator events are >us|KT.ded, Larpe-sC l|’ outdoor spectator or Mudium events are |- ^ , (0 100 people, and People not parl of u household must maintain 6 feet of di u . |fom one another. RETURN TO LEARN remote learning N PErS0N LEARNING -’udenls return to school bu»to-^g5 as ,Of ins(ruc< tw uno, guidance from the ■••’thjg.-jn Deoartmcnl of Ed«r- Sl*.:-i^r>ts g<>rt.r;.-pnfG ,n Students return to (earning on • . r'r A .;. <y ... • / ;»• «" trxj prc^.um m r«Qrr»e a modilred schedule of lace!o-face Instruction and newly CAtton (MOE) and the Centers designed virtual learning al Certain d HASS ’ lor D.snase Control (COC) homo. vtda virtual wrstn;c?wn whten Cedrfwd HASS teachecs p/o- Certified HASS teachors vxie snstrurucn, wnich w,i| be adjusted to meet each <•''* ’’r's P40- v/’H t>e adjusted re a er-t each provide Instmction, which will sfuderd 3 needs ar»d wr/itr be adjusted to meet each grarte-imre' ca'xcepts student'D needs and cover student’s needs and cover grade-fevet concepts. grade-level concepts. may mclude course! provide Appfopnaie heann praebces Appropriate health practices by be implemented to keep wiR be implemented to keep >, rn HASS reacberi o1 re- students, lam has. and staff Remote kerning program students, families, and staff safe. 90 fn-person learning v/>i! include a focus on soc:a.'-emct onal and mental health supports HASS. or.‘c<: % ?nacrs Enuraly v'r.’ .r i: fe* rr. tw Hybrid learning will include a Hude focus on social-emotional and Cor it and mental heartn mental health supports wipports 1 'ecus o' BIG IN OPPORTUNITY : wc-< V.v in/. MDE State health officials th© local government, community leaders s a.* i teachers. HASS stnves to develop plans that meefour goal of academic Sue­ . / rxvvidmg a safe equitable, and tloxrbte teaming environment that k ■ to<• entne schoet community jbout ine . ur. .riVt HASS to .ms w ; be examining tx?st practices that can be carried •< . ; tc i v atn* th fall We are working to provide details regafO(o nave mo<t detaiieo plans by earty August,__________ A proposed reopening plan outlined by Hastings Area Schools outlined by Hastings Area Schools before the Return to School Roadmap was released. j/ewbom babies /\rlo Patrick Gilbert, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on June 3. 2020 to Desiree Gilbert and Joshua Gilbert of Hastings. Nova Seclye, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on June 11,2020 to Maya Gray and Jonathan Seelye of Lake Odessa. Collins Kay Smith, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on June 11. 2020 -.to- Lynzie Smith and Eric Smith of Vermontville. 4 $ * Jt Reese Aiden Cegelis, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on June 13, 2020 to Kayla Cegelis and Jay Cegelis of Freeport. Atticus Alexander Westby, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on June 13. 2020 to Michelle Silsbee and Arthur Westby of Nashville. Maeve Ellen Kruger, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on June 15, 2020 to Angela Kruger and Eric Kruger of Lake Odessa. Kwinton Memphis Jackson, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on June 11, 2020 to Amanda Kay Jackson and Bobby Scott Jackson of Hastings. ' iJHJOu !O 71G • Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads FRESH FOOD FRIDAYS PHASE 2 The Hartings Band Boosters would like to thank the YMCA of Barry County and B'ue Zones for organizing and runnrg 'Fresh Food Fridays' for 5 successful weeks in May and June. Their commitment to community service leadership has Inspired us to carry on with this program after the USDA recently announced an extension. We will start a new phase of this program and expect to be receiving deliveries of FREE produce boxes (and possibly dairy - read below) on the dates of Friday July 1(T, l/” and 24* NEW11 At the Hartings High School location only we hope to offer both dairy boxes and vegetable/fruit boxes. Bring your cooler along just In case wc arc able to make this happen! WHEN: Fridays, July IO* July 17* July 24* 2020 (see chart for locations and pick up times). WHO: FHEE TO EVERYONE (not just kids)I The boxes are Intended for anyone who can use them. No names, addresses or pro-registration will be necessary to receive food. Remember this Is first come first serve program. WHERE: There are pick up sites around the Hastings Area School distort, such as Hastings High School, Dowling Library and more, (sec chart for locations and pick up times). HOW: Cars will line up and drive through the designated areas at each location to receive a box of fresh produce for free I Please remain in your vehicle. Please pick up a box for your ne’ghbor or friend. DETAILS: Wc are receiving boxes of produce each weckl The food Is bo ng made availab’c to us as pan cf an arrangement with the USDA 'Farm to Families Program' in co hboratiGn with the distributors: Perfect Pae* and P Fanns. This gets food from farmers wh ch would otherwise go to waste due to supply-chain problems Instead gets food to people who will use it I r: July 10,17; 24 site schedule (times are approximate) 1Location AMtinn Hastings High School Baltimore Terrace Meadow Stone Homes i AHrlrotc_______ _______ j Address 520 W South Street, Hastings i (enter by tennis courts) ! »•’**"* —----- 9.00-11:33am-while supplies last_____ M-37 and Sandy Circle by 9.30-10:30am - while supplies ~ playground, Hastings ___ last Barfield & Balsom Dr by 930-10:30am - while supplies playground, Hastings bs£ Dowling library 176S E Dowling Road, Hastings STO-lOJOam-while supplies Barry's Resort 2875 S Charlton Park Road, last Hastings Johnstown Township Hall ll-00.11;30OT--^ie7u-p^~- _ 1 • aS t BM1S.M-37High»e-"j 9.3O-1O.3Oa^ije-s-^Sr- Produce Box Contents (available at all sites): SAMS AX blfcrl . 2(Xb bcx<s vxith 7 V1r/ . vanetes of fruJtWn<J Dairy Box Contents (only at Hastings High School location): Contents nuy v.lry b.-t . milk, 14ot chocolate milk, 14oz strawberry mlik, 16or sour cream. 16o: onion a P ?4O, dt} 2 of 2% _____________ ■ ______ ' US< Cb^- «o< cream cheese �? recommends following these tips this weekend Luke Frunthcck Th. M- > S,aff Writer 1 he Michigan li»nnrt Resotnves released a sei ,JnCnI, ,?f Na,uni1 pe»>p!c planning to eel k 8ui<klmcs so that Wuhseandoso a ±bR,,c •»*» with safe, clean outd^r n!>rov,d"’S visitors making experiences Und we reopened state nJi °''S P“st Monda>new health and safere mpgrounds wi,h DNR nrr^ mi» ‘ 1 U> P^tiKols in place," a D.NK prtss release noted md' aXnc,nf PC°P1C °f ^'herTusXw and earing face coverings when in in enclosed indoor space. g nwrelit''9 rcn’ai,,s a prin,ar>' con«ra-bul mh»K , C ‘?"uCS a,S° PWP'«'» vvnmin “ Of beach and boating safety warnings. e J Recotd-high water levels arc causing -: increased nver flows, submerged docks and . piers, swimming and boating hazards and other concerns.” the press release cautioned. The Great Lakes are large, powerful bodies o water that demand respect and caution from boaters, swimmers and paddlers.” More DNR conservation officers will be out on the water until after the holiday. Their Prcscnc^ comes as part of Operation Dry’ water, a national campaign to promote sober boating. Whether hiking, biking, horseback riding, or OR\ riding, the DNR is encouraging people to follow preper trail etiquette related to recreational activities: • Don l create new trails or shortcuts since this can cause erosion and damage habitat. • When meeting an equestrian, slow down and speak up so the horse recognizes another human is present and not a predator. Stand back and let lhe horse pass; equestrian users have the right of w ay. • Keep to the right side. When approaching others from behind, announce when approaching. It’s common to say “On your left” when passing. DNR officials also addressed potential wildfire hazards, given thc increased volumes of people ready to use state parks for camping and other recreational purposes. Dry weather has created a higher risk of accidentally starling a wildfire, they said. Never launch fireworks toward forests or fields since dry grass or leaves could ignite. Sparklers should be put in a bucket of water immediately after use. For campers, DNR officials addressed ways people can help mitigate the spread of invasive species and protect native wildlife: • Follow the laws to prevent lhe spread of invasive species in Michigan waters, and be sure to clean, drain and dry boats and trailers. • Do not move firewood or bring it from home. Hauling firewood from one part of the state to another can transport insects and diseases with the potential to kill native trees. Buy firewood locally and do not lake home any leftovers, • Remove plants, seeds and mud from boots, pets, vehicles and gear before leaving a recreation site. • Be cautious near islands and other shoreline areas. Loons, wood ducks, trumpeter swans and dozens of other nesting birds need quiet water to maintain their nests and raise their young. Watch for signs and buoys marking nesting areas or other sites that could be damaged by wakes or high-speed boat operation. • Ducks, geese, eagles, loons, turtles and other animals can get tangled in fishing line, plastic can and bottle rings, and other litter. Remove all trash from campsites. Finally, DNR officials want campers to be aware that: • A Recreation Passport is needed for vehicle entry to state parks, state forest campgrounds and state-managed ating access sites. , ... • Anyone 17 or older must have a valid Michigan fishing license to fish. Anyone under 17 may fish without a license, but still must observe all fishing rules and regulations. An adult actively assisting a minor who docs not have a license must have a fishing license. • Before hitting the trails, purchase an ORV license or trail permit online. •Think about what is needed for a camping trip before leaving and grab the right gear, including hand sanitizer. • Many people like to swing by some state parks just to catch nearby evening fireworks displays. This year, however, the DNR will close state park day-use areas at 10 p.m. to help reduce crowds. Although popular outdoor spaces are re opening, some important restrictions, such as wearing a face covering when inside enclosed indoor places and not congregating in large groups, arc still in place for the safety and protection of visitors, volunteers and staft’. Whether photo) >9. fishing, camping or taking part in other activity this weekend, the DNR is encouraging safety. (File I?JBan?rAUnED ELECTORS: NOTICE OF REGISTRATION FOR THE ELECTION TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, AUGUST 4, 2020 BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN ? J S ’1”' h Ornn9ovillo, Prairieville, S?kee m Tho'n:iPPl0. Woodland. Yankee Sprtngs.ond city ol Hastings. PRIMARY ELECTION c.1 foC D.affY.T'YPr-ftPKMlJL fireMilfogq Sha’l the previous voted increase in the 15 rr.:'i tax limitation imocstd under Artde IX. Sec. 6 of the Mchigan Constitution on general Ad Valo»em taxes within Barry Townsh-p be renewed up to 2.0300 mills ($2 00 par $1.000 0! taxable value) for the period cl 2020 She'i lhe previous voted increase in the 15 in. 1 tax Ini.’.ibo.t impos -.1 under Article W. Sec. 6 of toe Michigan Constitution on genera! Ad Vr/sren tines wrtoin Barry To/.nsn p be renewed up to 2.0000 mills (S2.C0 per $1,000 0! taxable vo'oe) for toe period cl 2020 through 2023 r.cusvc for Mice Protection and shall the Tcwnsh p levy such renewal in milage for said purpose, thereby, rasing :n toe frat year an estimated $260,009 00. GmJMDspl CARLTWf TOWNSHIP FIRE PROTECTION MILLAGE I Shalt toe exp.red prevous voted increases n the tax i m.tsticas Imposed under Art.cte LX. I Sec 6 cf the M.chigin Carattotion in Oilton Township, of 1.5 mills (S1.50 per $1,000 I cf taxable value), reduced to 1.4925 m :is i$l.4925 per $1.000 cf taxable va'ue) by toe I required milage rottadcs. be renewed at and increased up to toe original voted 1 5 mil s ($1.50 per SI 000 of taxable va’uei and leved fcr 4 (tour) years, 2020 through 12023 inclusive, for toe purpose of proving fire protection w.toin toe township, raising an estimated Si 17,000.00 in toe frat year toe millage is levied, cl which a portion will be disbursed to Freeport Rie Association. Wood and Fire Association, and BrRCH Fire Department? who Is not already registered, may register other than in-person with the local clerk is to vote at tho office of tho Township or City Monday, July 20, 2020. Clerk; the Office of the appropriate County Clerk; a Secretary of State branch office, or After this date, anyone who qualifies as an other designated state agency. Registration elector may register to vote in person with forms can bo obtained at vrwvr.ml.gov/ proof of residency (MCL 168.492) at the vote and mailed to the Township or City following: . .. ... i i 1 3100 C Dowling Road | Haatinan, Ml 4UOSO By Appt 9 OO am — 5 OO pm ' Debra Knight I Ba,,V Township 1 11300 G M-43 Hwy • Dolton. Ml 40040 Tuesday O am — 1 prn Wodnosduy O err» — 5 prn Amanda urovwn p j c «fl^TbXh, J U5 Wolcomo Rond । HriatinQO. Ml 40050 Wednesdays — IO orn — noon • O OO am — 4'00 pm > Wcdnoaduy 1pm — 4:30 pm ( ; Anitn Mon„„i| Hasung, Charter 1 lownvvp i 005 Rivor Rond • Haatingn, Ml 40050 I I . Deborah Jackaon 1 Hope Township 5403 G M-43 Hvzy ' Masttnaa, Ml 40050 Wcdnn-.duyti O am — noon & 1 15—3 OO pm. Thursday & Friday 1 pm - 3 pm Sharon ©[non t ”v,nO Township j 3425 Wing Road ' HaMinga. Ml 40050 Monday A Wodnetdny O uni . noon Holly Curpentor Mupio Grove Twp I Melody Risnni 10165 Notrln Rond Delton. Ml 40040 Pr»<d«vaiA Twp , 2401 Heath Road Hantinyn. Ml 40050 Cm.Jy WTIltkhlro T he rrnppta Twp 200 t. Main Street Middleville. Ml 40333 7 00 urn — 8:00 pm j 0 OO urn — 5.00 pm I BOO am — 4 00 pm 1 O OO am — 4 OO pm 1.. . I 7:00 am — 8 OO pm ........ [ 1 1 7 OO am — 8 OO pm __ _ 7 OO am — 0 OO pm 1 Dy Appt Only ; U OO am — 4.00 pm . . ' Mon - Wed — Ftoday , 0.30 am — 1 30 pm 7:00 am — BOO pm . • O OO arn — 5 pm 7 00 am — 8.00 pm ■ Mon — Thursday O am — 5 pm । Sunday Aug. 2 .0—4 pm ! Monday — Thursday ’ O am — 3 pm ■ 8 00 am — 4 pm • 7.00 nm — B OO pm । 7.00 am — 3 pm 1 --. | 7:00 am — 8:00 pm I Monday — Thuruday ' t» am — 4 prn 7:00 am — 0.00 pm L_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ I Tuotvduy 5pm — 7 pm , Saturday Oarn — 11 am for 4 years, 2020 torou^i 2023 Inclusive, fix tha purpose c? road repir. maintenance and eperabons expenses, raising an estimated $137,765 in the first year toe millage is tevred*? jnnlco C Lippert VanKoo Springs Twp 1 204 N Briggo Road Middleville. Ml 40333 ( Mon — Thum — O am -3 prn । Friday 9 am — noon >* 7.00 am — 8 OO pm U OO nm — 4 pm 1____ ___________ ; 0.00 am — 4 OO pm - 7 OO a m to 3:00 pm , Monday — Friday O am — 5 pm I .............. ........................................... 1 7 OO am — 8.00 pm ■ i 7:00 am — O OO pm |................ . .......... L_._......... FIRE PROTECTION AND CEMETERY MILLAGE RENEWAL DELTON KELLOGG SCHOOLS OPERATING MILLAGE PROPOSAL EXEMPTING PRINCIPAL RESIDENCE July 15,2020 at 2.00 pm at CASTLETON TOWNSHIP HALL 915 Reed Street PO Box 679, Nashville. Michigan 49073 AND OTHER PROPERTY EXEMPTED BY LAW Townships participating in the July 15.2020 date: Castleton & Maple Grcrre Townships 18 0052 MILLS FOR 5 YEARS AND 5 MiU FOR 5 YEARS toe purpose of fire protection and cemetery maintenance, thereby nrs ng an estimated $137,765 in toe first year toe millage is tewed'? FOR HEADLEE RESTORATION PURPOSES. IF NECESSARY IOinlj9wnship: FIRE PROTECTION MILLAGE RENEWAL PROPOSAL 1.4566 MILLS FOR 6 YEARS July 20,2020 at 1:00 pm at HASTINGS CHARTER TOWNSHIP HALL 885 River Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Full text cf the bat'd proposition may be cbta ned a! the administrate offices cf Delton Townsttps participating in the July 20.2020 date: Hastings Charter Township Shali toe previously voted increase in toe 15 min tax limitation on genera! ad va’cr cm taxes Kellogg Schools, 327 North Greve Street. Delton, M.chigan 49046-9701. te'ephone: July 16,2020 at 1.DO pm at HOPE TOWNSHIP HALL 5463 S. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, Michigan 49058 <269)623-1500 kV*3 Yl 3 n jl School.Millage; to 1.4566 m Ils ($1.4565 per $1.03 cf taxable value) by required ro' backs, be renewed at 1.4566 mills ($1.4565 per $1,000 cf taxab'e value) for s-x (6) years. 2021 through 2026, Inclusive, to provide A-nds for fire protection purposes, and she:: frvmg Townsh p WAYLAND UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT be authored to annually levy sucn 1.4566 rr. Is ($1 4566 per $1 000 0! taxable value) for sad purposes, raising an estmated $199,039 in ma first yer the m I'age is levied9 AND OTHER PROPERTY jXEMPTED BY LAW A'l or a portion cf toe revenues from this m-'iage will be disbursed to the Freeport Rural Fire HEADLEE RESTORATION PURPOSES. IF NECESSARY Townships participating In the July 16.2020 date: Hope Township OPERATING MILLAGE PROPOSAL July 20,2020 © 10:00 am at IRVING TOWNSHIP HALL 3425 Wing Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 EXEMPTING PRi.NCIF^ RESIDENCE Tcwnstrps participating in the July 20.2020 date: In ing Township 18.1773 M’LLSW YEARS AND 0.2097 MILL FOR 4 YEARS FOR July 15,2020 G KMX) am at JOHNSTOWN TOWNSHIP HALL 13641 S. M-37 Hwy., Battle Creek, Michigan 49017 Assoc^bon. BIRCH Rural Rre Department and Thomapple Townshp Emergency Services or other entities pursuant to contracts for fire protection serv-ces within Irv.ng Townsr. p Townships participating in the July 15,2020 date: Johnstown Township Johnstown Township: Renewal of Fire Protection Apparatus and Equipment Millago ALLEGAN AREA EDUCATIONAL SERVICE AGENCY OPERATING MilLAGE PROPOSAL Shal toe pre*Aous>y voted increase in toe tax rate Ijmrtafion for Johnson Township renewed and levied on at! laxab'e property in toe amount 0! 0.7832 m^ll ($0 7882 per 0.0262 MILL FOR 15 YEARS both indusnre? (RESTORATION OF HEADLEE REDUCTION) July 21,2020 © 9-J0 am at THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP HALL ’ 200 East Main Street Middleville, Ml 49333 WAYLAND UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT OPERATING MILLAGE PROPOSAL Township! participating in the July 21.2020 date. Thomapple Townsfr.’p ’ EXEMPTING PRINCIPAL RESIDENCE AND OTHER PROPERTY EXEMPTED BY LAW July 14,2020 0 6:30 pm at WOODLAND TOWNSHIP HALL 156 South Main, PO Box 98, Woodland, Ml 48897 181773 MILLS FOR 4 YEARS AND Townships participating in the Jury 14.2020 date. Woodland Township 0 2097 MILL FOR 4 YEARS FOR HEADLEE RESTORATION PURPOSES. IF NECESSARY July 16,2020 at 3.00 pm at ASSYRIA TOWNSHIP HALL July 17 2020 © 12 noon at YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP HAU y SrNorth Briggs Road, Middleville, Ml 49333 _ C094 Tasker Road, Bellevue, Michigan 49021 Townships participating in the July 16,2020 date: Assyria ToAnstop July 16,2020 at 1:00 pm at BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP HALL 3100 East Dowling Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 and Eid Townsltps participating in the July 17.2020 date: Yankee Springs Tc*W . July 10,2020 at 10.00 am at CITY OF HASTINGS 201 East State Street Hastings, Michigan 49058 To-wnships participating tn the July 10.2020 date: Dty of Hastings s Townships participating In the Jjby 16.2020 date: Baltimore Township eperating same, rara ng an estimated $45,000 in toe first year the miilaoa Is krS 36 J PROPOSAL FOR RENEWAL OF FIRE EQUIPMENT MILLAGE ‘Shall the previously voted Increase in the tax limitation impos'd An.rin ix <>c 16 of the Micftgan Constitution in Orangeville Township, cf up t0 0 75 m - 7cn 7'5 $ 1 .COO of taxable valued) and levied for five yeans. 2022 through 2026 LndiSe for to" purposes cf purchase of fire equipment and apparatus, ra , : q estinratMSibn 121 h toe first year that the millage is levied? Th s m.Hjgo beccmc-ffcctTJe wher1 th xuaent nvilage expires in 20x1 _ July 14,2020 at 10:00 am al BARRY TOWNSHIP HAU 155 E Orchard Street Delton, Michigan 49046 •ownth ps participating in the July 14.2020 date: Bany Township __ Assyria Tcwn-jhip Annurtn lorry Township Clyrx r h new ( IHORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP Baltimore Township Penelope Ypma Township Clerk Carlton Townsh:p AnLinoa Hfo-rto TownfrhfP Clerk Casleton Township Marcia Scrarnlin Township Clerk Hop® T°*n’.hip DclXXjJackson Town$h‘P Cterk Irving Township Sharon Ohon Township Clerk MJp'’rH^BTown‘-'hiP Ho’iy CWtnter 7o,vn^hip Ctefk Orangeville Township Melody Risner Township Clerk Township HoB'rt Hav*thorno Townth*P Clt.-fc Thomapple Township Cindy Wilshire Townshrp Clerk YankPO Spnnq Town,jh p jariic^ Lipp^ri Tow^”P Clerk City of Hastings Jane Saurman City Clerk EMERGENCY SERVICES MILLAGE RENEWAL PROPOSAL lhe previously voted increase In ton con;t:!irjoniSi tax I m.tation on genera! ad Sem toxes in Thomae cf 1.75 m°^.75 o#f $1 003 of taxable value), as redu.ed toJ 7 69 m, s by toe reared roabacks La rerlcJ at 1 7lt9 m^s ($1 7169 per SI 0,30_of terabte v.-V) and Iwicd upon taxable orocerty annual*/ <41 ?y23. incte-ve. for the purpose cf P K uj tee protection and emergency wnntrs and fu^ng .vchL^finj 1Sr ,,,5!»cir »n rsimtecl ThA Pubijc Accurcv Test is conducted to demonstrate that toe program and toe SJiptf er maS to tabulate toe results for toe election fave been prepared toBCoreancwthlw. MMMVJimaa(l LAST DAY FOR VOTER REGISTRATION OTHER THAN IN-PERSON July 17,2020 © W am at CARLTON TOWNSHIP HAU 85 Welcome Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 PAMELA A. PALMER, BARRY COUNTY CLERK on of; RutfondJWpMH'i'Qto ~CHARTERT== $578,000? Townships participating in the July 21,2020 date. Rutland Towr.sh'p (RESTORATION OF HEADLEE REDUCTION) 0.0262 MILL FOR 2034 YEARS taxable value) be renewed at 1 mul ($1.00 per $1,000 of tol- X Kted fS four years, 2020 through 2023 .ndus-ve for toe purpose i^ovX rXpartmS imcrc.ing public roads in Ruti.vid Charter To-v.n- fr.p, yj1(:h t fJ r n S an estimated Si58314.25 In the first year the mnage ls i^dr July 21.2020 © 10:30 am at RUTLAND TOWNSHIP HAU 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 ALLEGAN AREA EDUCATIONAL SERVICE AGENCY AREA CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION MILLAGE PROPOSAL FIRE DEPARTMENT AND AMBULANCE DEPARTMENT EQUIPMENT RDiEWAL on all taxable real and personal property m tot- TownsM for disbursement 0 Uwal mW to MM Chart* tebp l« Townships partic patmg in the July 23,2020 date: PratoevrBe Township 0 0448 MIL FOR 15 YEARS I1Shall Lhe re/ous voted increase in the tax 1 mitabon imposed under Article ix Section 6 of toe Michigan CcnstMon in Maple Grave Townshp. cf 1 m-I'i ($1.00 per $1 COO uf I years. taxable value) be renewed at 1 mil) ($1.03 per $1,000 cf taxable value) and tevi^i for lour 2020 through 2023 inclusive for the purpose of prwxfing -d Ro% I Maintenance, raising an estimated S45.G00 in toe brat year the nr }ae i-1™ “ I Mjple JJcpyc: ' I 6Shall toe previous voted increase in toe tax limitation impost (.3^ 4^ w qc.-tan of toe Michigan constitution in Maple Grove Township, Of 1 mil' <St 00 ner st COO of July 23,2020 011«) am at PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP HALL 10115 S. Norris Road, Delton, Michigan 49048 SPECIAL EDUCATION MILAGE PROPOSAL I Map!o_Gro ve: * DUST CONTROL AND ROAD MAINTENANCE RENEWAL MILLAGE s tMl anU Pe'sonai Townships participating in the July 20.2020 date: Orangerlle Township ALLEGAN AREA EDUCATlOfiAL SERVICE AGENCY I This proposal is for renewal cf a previously authorized millage to provide for toe acquisition I operal-on and maintenance cf tee protoebon apparatus and eqirpmenl including, but not I limited to, fire and rescue vehicles fcr toe iu»'.r«sh.p st toe same rate l°vied in 2019 If I approved, it is estimated that the levy cf 0.7682 mill w!) pnyZd* reven-e of S34 845 in I the first calendar ynref the levy, ’ I The tax revenue received by toe Township w.ll be dsbursed to toe Township cf Johnstown jhorngPRlaW: July 20,2020 € 10:00 am at ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP HALL 7350 Lindsey Road, Plain well, Michigan 49080 (RESTORATION OF HEADLEE REDUCTION) $1.000 of taxabte value), subject to reduction as provided by law. for the yea's 2020-2023 I tonflfytM^rpJftuiwnLMiiisge; [ I Townsfr ps participating in thc Ju*y 17,2020 date: Carlton Towrafop Delton School M nage: and .25 mH for Cemetery (SI.00 pc: S1.000 of taxable value), reduced to 0.944 mills by toe required millage ro'ibacks. be renewed a! and increased up to toe original voted 1 miii ($1.00 of Si ,030 taxable value) and lewed for 4 years. 2020 through 2023 inclusive for I which may be imposed on taxas'e property w.th<1 Irvin-] Tc.vnship under Aq.d.’ IX Sec 6 of toe M chign Consbtubor. of 1.5 mills ($1.50 per $1,000 c! taxable value), as reduced 2 i --|________________ I 150 S Main PO Box OO Woodland. Ml 40007 201 Cast State Stroot HaMlngn. Ml 40050 • i 1 7 OO am — B OO pm । 0 OO am — 4 OO pm t 'Shall the previously expired voted Increase in the lax limitations imposed under Article IX. Sec 6 of toe M ch gan Cor.stout.on in Hope Township uf 1 mill - .75 mil for Fire Protection . ----------- — 4 : 7 OO am — 0 OO pm i___ ____ ________ Nancy Stanton Wtxxilnnd Township Jane Sammon City of Hastings ................... Monday A Wednesday : B am — 4 prn or toy Appt. ..! • 7 350 Linduoy Road I Plainwell Ml 40000 Hod Goebel ' 1 7 OO am — 8.00 pm O OO um — 4:00 pm 7 untdnya O am — noon & 1—4 pm 1 721 Durk«>« Stroot Nashville. Mt 40073 Ora PfHville 7wp 7 OO am — o OO pm i ____ ___________ | 015 Rood Stroot PO Box ’ 070. Nushvillo. Ml 40073 , 13041 S M-3 7 , Bnttlo Crook. Ml 4DO17 i......................................... . . 7 OO um — O OO pm O OO am — 4 OO pm ( ' Caauaton Township Short Babcock Johnstown IWp Hours on Tuosdsy, August i 4, 2020 ..................... and increased up to toe cngnal voted 1 mill ($1.00 c’ S1.C00 taxable value) and levied Equipment. Ambulance Department Equipment maintop y HAPPY iWEWENCE UAi Rogulur Dualnosn Hourn ■ Hours on Saturday _____ ’________ ______ I August 1, 2020 O OO am — 5 00 pm Rutland Twp ■Sn-'i ,exa;fd voted increase .ip toatMMvW08 •rposeduidirArt.de IX, Sec. 6 o’ toe Michigan IXnr fot-;n In IL-pe To.1. P- S1-C03 tactile value), itJuced to 0944 m:-‘s by the reqjicd m/age roTtacks. be renewed at The last day to register in any manner By Appt 1 Hot m Hawthorne Nppgjwp: PROPOSAL FOR RENEWAL OF THE ROAD IMPROVEMENT MILLAGE oxpressSOS.com. elector of the above named jurisdictions 1 1)004 Tasker Rond | Dellnvue. Ml 40021 through 2023 inclusive for Fire Prctectw and sha-T thc Townsh-p levy exh renewal in millage for said purpese. there by, raising n the first year an est mated $260,030 03. B?mLTWPLPrPP05al.2Po!»Cf Miyage ’ may update their registration at www. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that any qualified Address t....................... Cleric Voters who are already registered STATE OF MICHIGAN u3nio Grfharter’ HoPe« Irving, Johnstown, Mun‘c'pallty PLEASE TAKE NOTICE tnat the following proper COUNTY OF BARRY ™S bounty Townships of Assyria, £X^arTy’Car,ton- Castleton, Persons with special needs, os defined in too Americans with 0 sab.’-uea Act shodd contact toe C ty w Townsh p Barry Township Deb Knight Township Clerk Hastings Chartter Township Anita McnneU Township Cl«k Johnstown Township Sheri Babcock Township C'«rk Pni rieViHe Township Rod Goebe1 Township Cietk Woodand Township Nancy Stanton Townoh’P Ctem Ceix Pereons who are deaf, hard cf hearing or speech impaired n^y place a cafl through me Mchigan Relay Center TDD<1-SOO 649-3777. This notice is given required by law (MCL 163.498(3). YOU MUST BE REGISTERED TO QUALIFY AS A VOTER! QUALIFICATIONS TO VOTE Cttixend the United Slates At teas! 13 'years uf age on or before Augint 4, �Page 12 — Thursday, July 2, 7020 — The Hastings Banner _ Carve into a cottonwood A massixe cottonwood tree in TVden Park, badly damaged by a storm, »> being converted to a fantasy play place. The top of the tree was badly damaged and had to be removed for safety reasons, but City of Hastings officials decided not thc cut down lhe trunk, but to convert il. Jerry Miller, a Hastings native, is working with his fiance Samantha Gable of Buttle Creek on the initial design and carving of the tree. Miller said thc tree is distinctive and wellknown in lhe park. He remembers it from his childhood and family reunions. lite tree stands on lhe south side of the park and is one of thc largest trees located there. The remaining trunk is 28 feci tall and 28 feet in circumference. Miller started the project by cutting out a , .v o feel Jong. He used a variety of an opening and .hen hoi- ,0*n£ «wk began Thursday. June 25. and on niesday. a crew from .he City of Hastings was on-site to till and level off the floor, and to shore up the top of lhe doorway pie tree had rot areas that extended down to the roots, and a roof will be built on the top of the mink to prevent moisture from seeping in and extending the rotted area. The cost of the project is expected to be between $8(X) and $1,000, Hastings City Manager Jerry Czarnecki said. Czarnecki said his hopes for the unique play place are high - literally. He’s hoping the doorway will be tall enough for him to walk through. He’s 6-foot-7. Jerry mi er ana ms fiance, Samantha Gable, work on the initial design for the tree together. Miller grew up in Hastings and recalls family reunions in the shade of this venerable cottonwood. Carving into the tree took a variety of tools to create the opening and hollow it out. This massive cottonwood in Tyden Park, even after storm damage required remov­ al of the tree top, still dwarfs the woodcarver at work. (Photos by Scott Harmsen) ta i i i I ) you with your campaign needs. s। I ' i I • Advertising - • Yard Signs | Samantha Gable stands in the opening to show that it should meet City Manager Jerry Czarnecki’s expectation of being tall enough for his 6-foot-7 height. ■ • Banners • Flyers • Self Mailers such as postcards and brochures Inserts in the Newspaper Specialty items such as pens, magnets, balloons, and more ill Call 269-945-9554 for more information The project, Qs of Tuesday, still requires a roof to protect the tree from any further The tree had some rot that extended down to the roots, as the opening shows here. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-07-30.pdf 9e7dfeac8f993e1a8cbdc3652c451066 PDF Text Text Jq<!!’ngs Public Library -ZE State Street Hastings Ml 49058 Manor employee may have had false positive Court «**«<! in COVID' V? Process Shipley top four at FireKeepers tourney See Story on Page 11 See Story on Page 5 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 d6;2QP 'CAR-RT LOT-C003 Ha. Hastings Me Library 227 E State St Hastings Ml 49058-1954 PRICE $1.00 VOLUME 167. No. 30 $10.5 minion housing project gets green light This photo taken of a video conference from the Barry County Jail shows David Krebs as he appeared in June. The proposed Thornapple Manor assisted living housing project, with the entry view shown here, will meet two key objectives: Relieve some housing pressure in the county without placing a financial burden on taxpayers. Jury finds Krebs guilty of assault - not attempted murder Rebecca Pierce Editor A $105 million, 50-bed assisted living complex next to Thornapple Manor got the go-ahead from the Barry County board of commissioners Tuesday. It wasn’t quite what Don Haney, executive director of Thornapple Manor, had envisioned when he first pitched the idea to county com­ missioners. But it’s significant. Barry County Commissioner Ben Geiget noted, since it addresses critical housing reeds In the com­ munity. The commissioners unanimously approved construction of tin?assisted living complex on about 35 acres of county owned property al the corner of M-79 and McKeown Road. At a later date, the board will pledge the full faith and credit of the county, in effect be the co-signer, to support the issuance of debt to cover the cost of construction. “Thomapple Manor will be 100 percent Taylor Owens Stuff Writer After eight hours of deliberations. a Barn Count} Circuit Court jury found David Krebs 11 guilty of assault with intent to commit great bodily harm Friday night. They did nut find intent to commit murder. A conviction of assault with intent to do great bodily harm carries a punishment of not more than 10 years in prison; the murder attempt charge is punishable by up to life in prison. After the jury selection, but before testimo­ ny began on Monday. Krebs. 30, of Vermontville, rejected an offer by the Barry County Prosecutor’s Office to plead guilty to assault with intent to commit murder with a recommended sentence of a minimum 20 years in prison. Krebs slit the throat of 28-year-old Anthony Collins of Middleville, and stabbed him mul­ tiple times on Sept. 5. Collins was in the front passenger sent of a moving car, traveling on Barber Road, and Krebs was in the back pas­ senger seat, when the attack.occurred. Krebs testified that Collins attacked him with Krebs’ own kittle, and he was unaware how Collins sustained his injuries. Collins testified there was no altercation before Krebs reached from behind, slit his throat and slabbed him multiple times. Collins then ran to a nearby house and stumbled inside, where a mother with her children about her wrapped two towels around his See GUILTY, page 10 responsible for all debt payments, including Based on their financial feasibility study through the start-up phase.” Haney said later, using national and regional benchmarks, the after the meeting. “I would anticipate Year 1. original project proposal was not well-suited and possibly Year 2. lower debt payments to the county. than the following years, but we will see what “it was not going to be adequate in terms of the bond structure looks like with the finan­ creating cash in funding,” Haney told com­ cial advisers as we move through the process missioners. "... As you know, one of our with them.” tenets in bringing this forw ard to you, was to He said he expects the project to begin next make sure it would be self-sustaining.” spring but possibly as early as this fall. So the proposal was revised, adjusting to The complex will eventually will create local market rates and assumptions and sepa­ more employment - about 32.3 full-time rating the project into assisted living and equivalents, or about 40 Jobs on the assisted independent living, he said. ii\ingfside ol tire operation. Thurnapple ’ This exercise made' it clear that building Manor currently has 161 beds and offers the assisted living project would be financial­ skilled nursing and rehabilitative services. ly feasible while the independent living was “We’ve been working for almost two years not viable at this time." that proposal stated. now- on looking at expanding our campus w ith Housing in the county is a need across all some independent living and assisted living income and age levels. But, at this time, the housing,” Haney said. “...We did put together market study indicated that 60 assisted living a performance statement, an income state­ units and 30 dementia care units arc what’s ment. on the whole project and it did not turn See THORNAPPLE MANOR, page 3 out favorable." Regfefer of ©feeds race riles political foes Incumbent Barry County Register of Deeds Barbara Hurless speaks during a county board meeting last year. Hastings High School 2020 GRADUATION SECTION inside this issue of the Hastings Banned Barry County Board of Commissioners Chairwoman Heather Wing is stepping down from the board to run against Register of Deeds Barbara Hurless. Rebecca Pierce Editor The Republican primary race for Barry County Register of Deeds is resurrecting years of disputes and ill will over how’ that office should be run. Incumbent Barbara Hurless, who has served eight years as register and is seeking a third term, is facing competition from county board chairwoman Heather Wing. Voters will decide between the two next Tuesday, then the winner will face opposition from Democrat Jordan Brehm in the November general election. Hurless, 67. of Hastings,has worked in the register of deeds office lor 21 years< as deputy and chief deputy until she was appointed to the top spot in 2011. She was elected to the post in 2012. “I know that office inside and out." Hurless said. Wing. 50. of Bellevue, |]ave [hc experience Hurless has, but said she’s a fast learner. She had to step down from her elected post of District 7 county commissioner to run for the office. “It’s not often that you make a decision to leave a job that you absolutely love," she said when she officially announced her candidacy in June. “With that, I’ve decided not to run for commissioner. I’m running for register. I think that the service that has been interrupted between the townships and the county government is a shame, and I think that those services need to be restored. I will do whatever it takes to work with our townships to fix the communication gaps that we have with our townships and our county departments." “I think 1 can be a positive influence in the office," she added. “I worked very hard as a commissioner to make a positive impact on our county and I think I can help in the register of deeds office.” Burnett murder trial starts Monday Tavlor Owens Stuff Writer Jon Burnell will stand trial for 36 charges, including two counts of murder, starting at 9 a.m. Monday. Burnell, 64. of Orangeville, is accused of shooting and killing Gary Peake. 73, of Plainwell, and Bryce DeGood, 21, of Haslett. June 21, 2019. Charges against him include open murder, kidnapping, unlawful imprison­ ment. assault with a deadly weapon and mul­ tiple counts of assault with intent to murder. Barry County District Court Judge Michael Schipper said jury selection will take place at the Barry Expo Center. 'The center had been used recently to select jurors for the trial of David Krebs II. “That seemed to work well," Schipper said. But instead of the 75 potential jurors called for the Krebs case, a pool of 120 potential jurors will be called for Burnett, which will require using both sides of q. The trial will take place in cr^nIcr’. w which is much smaller antf v s 0011 ’ tics than the Circuit Coup ^..er aco»trial took place, Schipper sjjj c e L 5 “We'll do it as normal as ’ However, there will b^^>le. be a d due to COVID-19. (;ore*ainp|,. „ ? be spread out in the box aty in f Ihc courtroom. In addition, the trial xviff public, but will streamed <)ri Y0lir|ll£ Faini|y members of the victims ( ment. 1 Schipper said U)un ilre still deciding some ; I*vts including how exhibit wi}J ^P jury. The trial is e-M-eeted lo weeks, he said. Jon Burnett of Orangeville testifiesj in Barry County Circuit Court in e (Photo by Scott Harmsen) Both elected positions offer pay and benefits, but compensation for the register of deeds is significantly more. In 2021, if she had continued as chairwoman of the county board. Wing would have received $13,879 in compensation plus benefits. Next year, the register of deeds will earn $69,315, plus benefits. When she filed to run for the office, Wing said she called Hurless “and told her I was running. I told her that she had been a public servant for a really long time and I had heard a lot of things from the community. If she wanted an opportunity to retire, she could have it." Hurless’ recollection of that conversation is quite different. She said she won’t lx bullied out of the office. But both said they don’t want to speak badly about the other. See REGISTER OF DEEDS, page 2 The newsstand price for The Banner will go to $1 Aug. 1. and will be reflected in the computer bar code. This will make for a simpler transaction at point of purchase, of course, but the reason for the change is this: The financial and operational impact of COVID-19 has affected many of our valued advertisers - and that has an impact on us. Despite this, we are dedicated to providing a reli­ able source of important news and information you can’t get elsewhere. Don’t forget that The Banner is a locally owned news business that, like any other, requires the support of readers and advertisers to survive and thrive. I! you don’t subscribe, now’s a good time to do so. It you don't advertise, why not? Support your community. We certainly do. We look forward to serving you Ca‘l us at 269’945-9554. �current location and utilities provides access to M-79 off McKeown Road needed, according to the resolution commis­ sioners adopted Tuesday. This project will be self-sustaining, Haney said, emphasizing that Thomapple Manor would not move forward with any project that would not be financially self-supporting to repay any debt required for construction. Haney expressed the hope that this project “provides not just enough cash to cover the debt of this project, but that there’s a surplus and, in over a few years we would be able to could go back and revisit the independent living side of things. Maybe with the cash we’II be able to get that off the ground as well.” As he pointed out, the assisted living proj­ ect will actually be building an infrastructure component, with water and sewer service that This view shows the assisted living complex floor plan. A long-range plan for the site will be to add 100 independent living units on this site. would be of sufficient size to handle an inde­ pendent living campus as well. “We have a plan for an independent living campus as well ” Haney said. Commissioner Vivian Conner said that she had hoped for bigger units. “It’s similar to the campus you already have.” The demand was what made the difference. “On market demand, they would be a pretty good size.... But the affordable rate was real­ ly what we need. That’s the trade-off to make it affordable.” These units will be open to people in sur­ rounding counties, he noted. But if the choice was between two candidates, one from the county and one outside the county, the Barry County resident would be chosen. Haney noted that they have never had to apply that Commissioner Dave Jackson discuss­ es the Barry County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance restructuring proposal. Commissioners Howard Gibson, with fellow Commissioner Jon Smelker on right asks about the proposed senior housing complex. 7 Economic Development Alliance Director Don Haney and Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jennifer Heinzman make their presentation to the county board Tuesday. SWING rule. A year ago, Haney came before commis­ sioners to ask for support as he explored these additions as well as adult day care services. He had commissioned a market study to determine the extent of need and was sur­ prised by the numbers. “Just based on con­ versations, I knew that there would be demand, but I didn’t realize there would be this much demand.” he said. In other business, the county: • Heard a presentation from Haney, chair­ man of the Economic Development Alliance, and Jennifer Heinzman, executive director of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce, on their plan to restructure the boards of the two organizations into advisory boards and create one overarching governance board that will streamline the two organizations and make them more efficient. Since Barry County is a primary funding source, they asked for the commissioners’ blessing - and got it. “We’re here today to garner support," Heinzman said. “In our mind, everything is economic development now. ...We’re in a position where we need to recover from COVID-19 and we need to help all of the businesses so we can stay a thriving commu­ nity.” • Approved the re-appointment of Robert Vanderboegh and Clyde Morgan to three-year terms through April 30, 2023, on the county Planning Commission. • Approved claims of $95,605 • Adopted a resolution in support of the 30th anniversary of the Americans with TVicaKlll*:—- A — WE’RE IN THIS A Record of Accomplishment, a Plan for Results MxolsnJecBegjsieEefJS^fids; together -Integrity, Honesty, Commitment -Enhanced Customer Service -Restored Relationships -Inclusive Decision Making NO EXCUSES, JUST RESULTS 40k J KX.J MASK Heather Wing Republican Candidate for Barry County Register of Deeds tel. (269) 660-0498 • heatheriwing@gmail.corn Paid far by th* GvnmHtoe (o Elect Heather Winy, 13553 Wing Rd., Jkllcvuc, Ml 49021 r .• Barry County Michael Brown addresses the board Tuesday durinn H< consrderation^jsth^p^ Manor housing project. (Photos by Rebecca p£j �The Hastings - - Thursday, — Page 3 '«rjj»,.ny» Banner w.l.' ir t«r — i fi'jrsuoy, July JU>y 30. JU. 2020 ZUZU — fa Council sets application Jee for Kmart property ^vanah Kaechele Writer the leaders await word on Kmart buildin lcnant ill be for the former an nnnp. Wcst Suie Strccl« thc> ^babilitajj^ lcahon tor n commercial Property. exctt'pfion certificate for the As Manin Si2,0()0 fe^r’ °n Monday approved setting a first sten tnw ®xcinp0on certificate, lhe the reh ihii;. • Atting tax incentives toward “Last m /510n Of thal building. lhe next st ,Ce!In” ou scl UP the district, and to submit CP1U lh.e Process is for the applicant grant •» an.aPPEcaiion for lhe city council to Mamr • Cc.rll^catc for the exemption.’’ City “On^v tl Jerry CzarnecW l°ld the council, finni; 1 u gOCS onl° (he state, the ;tnle will “\V C !hat aS acccPlahlc. sri.. ti?.not ^ve a fee currently in our fee C u c f°r doing this, so we reached out to lr assessor and talked to her about other communities and similar applications,” vzAtrnecki adder!, noting the fee “works out to be about three days of work for the average salary worker at the city of Hastings." Last week, it was announced that Muskegon-based retailer Family Farm and Home will be one of the two tenants for the Kmart building, with the company expected to open its new store in October. Czarnecki told The Banner this week that there has been no announcement yet on lhe second tenant, noting that paperwork is still being finalized by that tenant with the property owner, Hastings Center LLC. Czarnecki offered updates on other city projects during his manager’s report: The replacement of the railing on South Jefferson Street is for the most part done, other than the two comer decorative posts, he said. “It looks amazing; they’ve done a nice job,” he added. “And actually, on lhe west side of Jefferson, we gained about 6 inches of sidewalk because the original railing was placed in the sidewalk, not on the retaining wall, so we gained some sidewalk on that side.” For the streetlight project, the lights are up except for two because the kits sent for attach­ ing the lights were defective.The bases for the lights did not fit as engineered, so they are being rc-engineercd, Czarnecki added. In other business, the council: - Excused the absence of council members Therese Maupin-Moore and Bill Redman. Maupin-Moore joined the meeting later. - Conducted a public hearing regarding revision of the original public hearing to include Community Development Block Grant compliance language for lhe project at 118 E. Court St. explained that the pul it'hile ago. but anot) .required to add other — “otation to the *resoM* 01' ccrtificd certified ,he the signatories signatories, Czarnecki and Ibssava, for the Community Development Block Grant funding. At the public hearing in June 2019, he said, city offi­ cials did not know the exact size of the proj­ ect. nor did they realize it was a required pan of the compliance, "The second piece that was added was naming the mayor and the city manager as the people who can sign off on documents that relate to this grant,” he added. The revised resolution has been viewed by the compliance person for the Michigan Economic Development Corp. Now. the amounts of $300,000 in CDBG funds and $112,000 in private funds have been added to lhe resolution. These funds will be used for the creation of five new rental units at 118 E. Court St. As stated in the reso­ lution, the new units will benefit at least 51 percent low- to moderate-income persons, and no persons will be displaced during the cre­ ation of the five new units. - Accepted a request from the Downtown Business Team to hold sidewalk sales Sept. 18 and 19. To do this, the council also had to adopt a resolution to stay the necessary ordi­ nances. Also, in the request, was for the side­ walk sale banner to be installed over State Street Sept. 14 and fly for seven days. - Approved and authorized the signature of the Michigan Department of Transportation contract for a permit for sidewalk construc­ tion along M-43/M-37. Tossava clarified that the sidewalk will stretch from McDonald’s to Aldi on West State Street on the north side, and from Dairy Queen to the Holiday Inn Express Hotel on the south side. Council member Don Smith asked if lhe culvert over the drain would be affected. “This is a permit to do the work in the right­ of-way,” Czarnecki explained. “We are final­ izing the costs because there were some utility poles that had to be moved, and there were some control panels for our streetlights that are out there, but this will run in front of Holiday Inn and it will cross die creek, but it will not require any additional building onto the culvert, any bridges, anything like that. "MDOT and the engineers were able to come up with a plan that runs far enough away from the highway that MDOT is com­ fortable, but yet it does not require adding any additional structure.” - Approved consent items with one vote. These items, all invoices, included: $713,423 to Grand River Construction for wastewater treatment plant improvements, $17,038 to SME Environmental for the Royal Coach building, $6,938 to Wickham Cemetery' Care for June maintenance, $10340 to Westside .Solutionfrfor electrical work^S 15,000 to B&L ’OutdSor1 Sen'jcey Wowing and niainlejrtancc, $3*^56 to Hubbell, Roth and Qjaifc for the wastewater treatment plant project, Barry ISD agrees to $26,700 settlement with state Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Officials from lhe Barr}’ Intermediate School District have settled with the state officials over questioned costs related to the operation of several programs. Superintendent Richard Franklin said Friday. Franklin and state officials agreed that BISD would pay back 20 percent, $26,700, of the original SI33300 in questioned costs found in the district’s administration of the Great Start Readiness and Great Start Collaborative programs. ‘The parties agree that the execution of this agreement is solely for lhe purpose of compromise and to eliminate the burden and expense of further litigation," Franklin wrote in a July 23 press release. The settlement amount will be returned to the Michigan Department of Education’s Office of Great Start over lhe course of three years through monthly stale aid allocated funding to^BISD as part of its general operating expenses. , “Titis agreement does not constitute and <hall not be construed as an admission of liability, wrongdoing, fault, judgment, or concession, or as evidence with respect thereto, by any party on account of any clauns or matters arising between the parties. Fr lllie" agreement came after Franklin, on behalf of the ISD’s board of education, filed ^ appeal against a February report from OGS Ss lisfing S133.5OO m quegioned costs t e/snnht to reclaim from BISD. ‘’"’Those officials reviewed the early childhood education programs m spnng of w O and later recommended program . r ufSD in June of the same year. Rather than seek program removal from „a rep, state officials altered the.r course Barry administrators to supply a ^rrSautimipianon how they p.annedto return all questioned costs-^^ ,)Olhing "We mle atXt those costs,” Franklin questional^ is about moving Sward and limiting the fiscal damage the district could taUv Jngham Coun[y n'C ;'pptri and the Michigan Office of Circuit Court a . and Rules earlier Administrate Heanng this year. cndcd the legal dispute Friday sse emu ved during a ju,y 14 nnd was partially m(.mbcrs voled board a||ow Franklin to sign a unanimously l" „ with state official, ^■ttlcment ag <■ should their offer fall under an undisclosed amount pre-approved during a closed-session board meeting. “The stale reserves lhe right to reclaim grant funds that are what they call questioned costs,” Franklin said. “This term does not mean that money was improperly spent, only that something in the coding or accounting was questioned by the stale. In our case, this meant that they disagreed with certain function or object codes.” However, both Franklin and state officials said BISD representatives were never suspected of wrongdoing or considered to have partaken in fraudulent activity or intentional misconduct. State officials sought to reclaim the funds they questioned due to improperly implemented grant accounting procedures by BISD staff, Franklin said. “I am very pleased to have resolved this matter, so that the ISD can focus its energies on providing quality special education and early childhood programming to lhe children and families of lhe Delton and Hastings communities,” Franklin said. With the issue settled, Franklin said he and other ISD officials plan to continue operating both programs in the coming school year. Both home visjting and in-person preschool programs will follow the same COVID-19 response plan in place for the rest of the district, Franklin said. The plan is slated to be discussed and passed during an Aug. 11 board meeting. “We're loading up on a lot of [personal protection equipment] and cleaning supplies,” Franklin said. “We will have to do screenings, distancing, shields and all the same things as other schools and businesses.” However, there is one difference between BISD and ns local districts. The Coronavirus Aid. Relief and Economic Security Act which provides schools with some funding for COVID-19-related expenses, does not go to intermediate school districts. The CARES Act funding is distributed to school through Title I funding, for which the BISD is not eligible Franklin said. Regardless of funding, Franklin said he and other staff members plan to offer the best programs possible. “I am very proud ol lhe high-quality home visiting and preschool programs Barry ISD offers to the children and families of the Delton and Hastings areas,” Franklin said. “We are pleased to be able to continue these services for the coming school year.” C4R 915 to C^stnJC’ion yower," she said. “So I just wanted to bring $48,915 to ^^atment tank ,on •tower,” she said. “So I just wanted to bring Inc. for Wra,% for po«<* utifit„V . "? this to everyone’s attention as something that Signature Eifen Llr'r “"‘^ccl could happen here very easily. drive. ‘°776 to I wo'k <!" “I would, again, request that we look at the the library. $5. s9>951 ^0 for hquid [distributed antenna system] contract and “^tewater tL°P?i,Tns ordinances that were provided previously and aluminum Services ft* supply Co S"’8’* Pbnl’ get them approved and get them in our rules. $6,140 to Mil"1 X sculpture e. ?Ump' and Otherwise, something like this can happen $5330 10 f°r here, and we’re not going to have any recourse. We need to comply with the stale law with Cac^cil member Brenda McNabb-Stnnge regard to this.” asked why the city was billed for envi- Heard a comment from council member ronmental^sc^^,0^ ^-°ach buildDon Bowers regarding a house on South inp. Czarnecki said P « of a reimburse­ Jefferson Street. "There’s a large, tall dog pen ment grant for R°yal ^oac^'and that.once the in the front yard, and also a fire pit and a ™y paTs SME. the city w.l Send lhe invoicc bunch ot other junk,” he said. “It’s an eyesore, to &e to be reimbursed foril. and I think we should look into that and see if - Heard a a^mnient from McNabb-Stange we can do something about it.” during her lcgis?l‘V‘%^tOr’s on lhe It will be reported to code enforcement and “Unapproved Wireless Tower Raises Stability the police department, Tossava said. Concerns" story in Saturday s Sun and News - Heard a comment from council member section in the Reminder Al Jarvis regarding work Leaping Lizards ‘These are to^rs “re going up in Landscaping LLC is doing for the city, “I Caledonia Township. l-O-foot towers, that talked to three of our DPS people asking aren’t meeting their requirement, aren’t get­ about the job that Leaping Lizards are doing ting permission, aren t getting special land­ and they are impressed by how fast they use pennits and aren t following their own move,” he said. “I guess they have some awe­ guidelines for footings for the base for the some machine that I haven’t seen yet and the quality quality of of lhe the job job they they’’re re doing doing so, so, hopef hopefully, he's making money and he’ll be happy and we’ll be happy.” Smith followed up on this comment by suggesting having performance bond for con­ tractors who bid lower than the city normally contracts for. “When we have service con­ tracts that wc continuously have year after year, and when we get a new bidder that bids a lot lower than we are normally signed and contracted for. wc should probably have that contractor provide a performance bond,” he said. “Because if it’s a lot lower, maybe they found a more efficient way like Al [Jarvis] was mentioning. But, in the event that they didn’t understand the full scope of work and we have to go to the next bidder, maybe it’s important that we get a performance bond. “I just like the staff to be aware of that and then they know if they have a bid that’s a lot lower, they can just let the contractor know that they might be required to get one for insurance for the city.” The next regular city council meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 10. Instructions for how to access the remote meetings can be found on the city’s website. Hastingsmi.org. City approves contract with ChargePoint Savanah Kaechele Contributing Writer The Hastings City Council Monday approved an amended contract with ChargePoint, an electric vehicle charging sta­ tion company, for the new charging station installed last month at the city-owned lot at the southwest corner of Mill Street and Michigan Avenue. At the June 22 regular council meeting, council members questioned the master ser­ vices and subscription agreement between the city and ChargePoint. The item was then tabled, and brought back for Monday's meet­ ingThe revised contract included the quote the downtown development authority received for purchasing the unit, cloud plan, warranty, activation, etc., and some changes made by the city's attorney to the master services and subscription agreement. Council member Brenda McNabb-Stange asked City Manager Jerry Czarnecki about the overview of the contact she requested two weeks ago. “I spent the lime in this little stretch here addressing the things that the attorney and the council had brought forward as concerns and have noted that moving forward with con­ tracts like ihis that we should start out the process with that summary of what was expected for it," Czarnecki said. “I would’ve Expected that if you already knew this contract and were recommending it for approval, that you would be able to just pul down the bullet points of what you expected in the agreement,” McNabb-Stange said. “I cannot approve of the contract not knowing whether or not it meets the criteria that we want.’’ Mayor David Tossava said he asked Czarnecki about the city attorney’s recom­ mendation and if Czarnecki could share that with the council. City Attorney Stephanie Fekkes then explained that Anthony Pearson from the firm has been working with her and Czarnecki on this project. “I understand that all of the points that have been a concern have been addressed in the proposed advised document,” Fekkes said. “And while ChargePoint has not approved it yet, the version that we are presenting, I understand, contains all of the points that lhe city would have.” McNabb-Stange then commented in response to Fekkes. “I don’t think it is lhe function of our attor­ neys to decide what should be in the contracts and what shouldn’t," she said. “I appreciate the fact that they made the changes that they did, but the initial agreement should be made by the city and whether it’s made by council or it’s made by staff, or made by the DDA for that matter, I believe that we need to know what those arc before we approve contracts I thought we were going to gct something on this and we did not." Council member Al Jarvis said his problem with the ChargePoint agrees h (hm downtown development authority didn’t address lhe council regarding the pu7rchasc of the charging station. Ute slalion was cliased by the DDA with support fn)m a sio’4oetS fcnerBy b ‘ a‘ “nnal cost of ’•I think that lhe downtown development group, or whoever, should have come before the council before they purchased the piece of equipment and then conic t0 us and |hat we have to vote on how t^ picce of . ment is operated, he said. lhink i( cou|d have been handled a lot beqCrj» Council member Don Smith questioned the items crossed Fekkes said the stricken words arc pmpoScd (0 elinfl. naled from the contrau ,f the motion was to forward with a new draft contract to be sen to chargepoini with lhe final draftbe,Ilg . back to council at a later date for approval. ^ins the lan­ e city managcr and -The guage and revisio Anthony Pearson from working on this, at the final version, sion before yon * ii ChargePoint then it would need cil.” r p Council member im l0 included in „So (hc ver. approved and then *jange any terms, c bac^ tQ c- (X)Un. cation on if the proposed contract is the final to this contract,” McNabb-Stange said. “It’s contract between the city and ChargePoint. material breach of the contract, not what you Il is the final contract and will be sent to think they should be doing. So, other than ChargePoint in its current form, Fekkes said. material breach. I don’t see a real way out for If ChargePoint were to make any revisions to us.” the contract, it would then be brought back to Fekkes read back on the contract and said council for reconsideration. there arc three options for terminating the Jarvis asked if other companies offer the contract: If ChargePoint gets subject to a peti­ service. tion of bankruptcy, if the city provides a “The charge machines are there, and we 30-day notice of a breach in contract from need ChargePoint to handle the collection of ChargePoint, and if the city provides a 30-day money from the people who charge on it,” he notice at any lime without cause. said. “Arc they the only company in this type McNabb-Stange questioned why there is an of business, or are they the biggest company option to provide 30 days if a breach occurs, in it? How does that work?” but also an option to provide 30 days without Czarnecki clarified that ChargePoint is not cause. the only company, but it is one of the more “I think that’s a pretty standard provision popular ones with the most stations. that’s in there that says ‘If you’re going to “Wc did discuss with them, that if we terminate me because you think I haven’t fol­ decide to go a different route, if we could use lowed through with something that I agreed to someone else’s software with this equipment do in an agreement,’ typically somebody is and the answer is yes, we can switch over to given 30 days* notice to cure that, versus just another company,” Czarnecki said. “Just like a dissatisfaction ‘I found a better deal that I theirs, there is an instillation cost, and there can go with,’” Fekkes said. “To me, that’s a would be a new cost to transfer to another pretty standard provision. software, but if we’re dissatisfied with “If you’re just saying T want to terminate ChargePoint. we can switch it and switch it the relationship because I just want to termi­ lover.” nate it,’ that’s a whole different cause for Smith asked if the DD/X made this recom­ notification," she added. .... Tossava pointed out the reason for the mendation. . “They did iiui, not, uiuoiij mostly because the $5,000' ' charging station in the first place. I; I livj uiu mwuuov uiv credit from Consumers Energy, that Jim- • ‘-I know when this was brought up at the ‘Brown from Hastings Township was, kind DDA meeting and Peggy [Hemerling] at the enough to transfer to the DDA, was specific library said they have people come in over for this equipment and the ChargePoint ser­ there all the time looking for a place to charge," he said. “So, that’s kind of how it got vice.” Czarnecki said. McNabb-Stange questioned the “right to brought up, and I know that the Village of Middleville and the City of Lowell have this terminate” section of the agreement. “Jerry [Czarnecki] said we have the right to and I haven’t heard of any issues they’ve had, go somewhere else if we want, at any time,” but we have $10,000 wrapped up in this thing she said. “Where do we get the right to termi­ already." All council members voted in agreement nate other than material breach by them?” “With them not living up to their contract with this motion except for McNabb-Stange. “I am supportive of them being here, but I would probably be the only reason we would am against approving this contract al this par­ leave ChargePoint.” Czarnecki said. “Well, if we prefer another provider, that ticular time.” she said. doesn’t necessarily mean they’re not living up . ■ Barbara Hurless REGISTER OF DEEDS ★ VOTE FOR EXPERIENCE* I have been the Barry County Register of Deeds since 2012. My employment in the office for 21 years, an prior experience working with real estate documents gwe me the knowledge and experience needed to continue the proper recording, maintenance and security of your real estate records. I will continue the fast and friendly customer service that taxpayers expect and deserve. Our state-of-the-art computer system has allowed us to offer .better ww and be able to return customer cArwirp service online, online, . , . documents , immediate recorded immeoiai y' in most cases. I promise . . to continue to be a hands-on elected ^partment head and be in the office every day, all day, as it should be. Please vote for me, Barbara Hurless, on August 4'* to keep the knowledge and experience in the Register of Deeds Office. * clarifi facebook.com/Barb4Register to Elect Barbara D. Hurless, S38 W. Bond St, Hastings. Ml 49053 Paid for by the Comm �tmon Page 4 — Ttw’sday. July 30. 2020 - Th* Hastings Banner Did you SCO i Therapy dog misses work ;rc?J ;• ■ “• • VUU’ I cl I CU ■■ ■ • assault with Therapy dog Ranger has not been able to visit hospitals and nursing homes like he used to. Because of COVID-19, he waits outside nursing homes while staff members escort patients lo the win­ dows to see the furry visitor who makes them smile. In 2017, Ranger receive a special award from Therapy °9 International for making 150 official vtst s to hospitals and care facilities. Han9 now has more than 350 officia under his collar - and another $Pe award. This photo was taken las wi outside Thornapple Manor by । partner. Bill Houghtaling. fflWE D.™ remember? Young characters Bunner June 28, 1956 More than 100 Hastings youngsters dressed up like their favorite characters Friday evening for the Youth Council’s playground parade through the business district. The parade ended at Tyden Park where judges selected the 11 prize winners, and all of the kiddies who participated received popsicles from Kist Ice Cream and Beverage Co. The winners, photographed by Richard Waite, include Janette Barry as Aunt Jemima, Sally and Nancy Kenfield as Miss Spam and 1970. Linda Burkey as Red Riding Hood, Deborah Ann Clark as the rag doll, Stephen Leary as Davy Crockett, with Sharon Leary pulling the covered wagon. Brian Shumway as a doctor. Christine File as a gypsy, and Richard Bronson and Bobby Babcock as soldiers. Have you Mark Bishop, 66. has been creating and achieving goals toward managing the renew­ able natural resources most of his life. “Since my youth. I always knew that I wanted a career in managing our renewable natural resources,” Bishop said. He attended Kellogg Community College after graduating from Battle Creek Central High School in 1971. After I 4 years at Kellogg Community College. Bishop trans­ ferred to Hocking Technical College in Nelsonville, Ohio. “It was a given that Michigan State University was the college of choice if you intended to pursue a career in the natural resources field,” he said. “I chose lo be dif­ ferent and cut the umbilical cord and travel six hours away from home to a beautiful setting. I was half an hour from West Virginia and Kentucky!” He graduated horn Hocking in 1975 with dual degrees in wildlife management and forest management. From there. Bishop went on to pursue his career in managing the renewable natural resources. Ik- moved to Middleville in 1980 as a condition oi his employment with the Department of Natural Resources. Throughout his more than 34 years with the DNR. he had a variety of duties to fulfill. “My core duties involved planning and implementing habitat management prescrip­ tions on ,24.000 acres of public lands in Barry and Kalamazoo counties,’’ he said, “lhe Iseauly ol my position is that I never did any­ thing long enough to gel bored. 'My favojile duty was planning and implementing forestry practices to enhance various habitats and wildlife species.” he added. When he retired from the DNR in 2010. he moved to Baltimore Township near Dowling. Bishop has now been lhe treasurer for the Barry Conservation District lor nine y cars. “J*m part ol u team that advises and over­ sees the executive director and field staff in carrying out their duties for public requests and assistance.” he said. Bishop said the conservation district F part oi the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and pro vides advice and cost-share assistance to the general public for various conservation pruj et’.'i on private lands. lhe many services provided by (he conservation district arc. funded through various grants written by the BCD staff in order (o offer free services to Court erred in COVID-19 process Mark Bishop the public. “The BCD is focused on outreach and information free of charge to residents of Barn County.” he .said. “That is why 1 am honored to be a .small part of this group of dedicated conservationists." Bishop still spends his time outdoors, whether fishing, hiking, camping, hunting or continuing to do consulting work for habitat management. He enjoys job- shadowing and mentoring youth and also being active with his church family, he said. “My wife, Jana, recently retired from procurement work w ith lhe Stale of Michiean and we enjoy many ol the same activities together,” he said. Bishop also has a daughter and two grandchildren who live in the Richland area. For serving his community by helpin" io manage natural resources and serving as an example for how to care for the environment. Bishop is this week’s Banner Bright Light. First job: Dishwasher at Arlene's Truck Slop. Best advice I ever received; Learn to listen. You cannot hear if you are talking. Person I most admire: My grandfather. He was a man who greatly influenced me in my early year about respecting our natural resources. He stressed that wc as humans have a duty to ire our resources wisely and piLo along this wisdom so thai future gener­ al ion> can benefit from it. He was ahead of his tune in renewable resources and sustain ability logic. I’m most proud of: Being nationally recognized in 2002 as lhe Outstanding Wildlife Conservationist of the Year in Charlotte. N.C. The only downside is that I worked with many people just as dedicated and deserving. Favorite movie: “Stand by Me.” If only I could: Change mean people. Greatest thing about Barry County: Its 326 lakes and forested lands blended in with our agriculture lands. I’ve always considered Barry County a “bedroom community because we have the rural atmosphere many people desire, yet they work outside the county . I have also admired lhe local talent and skills that are reflected in the numerous global manufacturing businesses founded and still established in our county. Barry' County has much lo offer. The challenge is to balance growth and yet maintain the reasons we all desire to live here. . Best thing a|)0Ut summertime: Watching the day awaken with sunrise, so peaceful. Best gift l cvcr received: My «,lva^' Hook Td reTOlnnicnd/f:>'"rl,c: 1 Big Picture” by Dr. Ben Carson„ ,, If I were president; I «ould bnnS P y back to our public schools . Person I’d most like W ,llcct 'C ** dead): Aldo Ixopolj the father of conservalion. ’ Something Ilb ,I10st people don’t know: I in an a„ ornithology <b'rd watcher FK’">71'-Me£VU'rttri,,e,,:“A,nCriCan What I'd t,.ii ’ i,nol graduate: Always set go; 1,'^hi«1‘ each day wil11 a purpose. ,s'"’d wake "P c mam'^’^UMnant^^^ Favorite thin iob: Working 'vith passionate Hbout who are generuu. wi'huil|e a"‘ “nJ l‘ Week ,/ lkn- turn •l" („ person who inukex ih,, ,e Banner /"‘I Do >vu know M„w„ ‘""iiniiiiil) featured beuiuse „l »„/ 'W,« sl“"“'lt-h>ei">: lwr' '«nuHiy. f,„ lht '' er Hork. J" to tell any -'-rjes he o' ' rliuinott to A'-h voo,,;. u '"%? St't“I’L. „r email Ml J ‘ ’ -------- ------‘k '• r < >ni. _ _____ flic jury in the David Krebs intent to murder case came back Friday night with a guilty verdict on a lesser charge. . As far as we’re concerned, the jury s still out on the process. In some perfect alternative universe where the punishment fits the crime, a hard­ nosed jury would have come back Friday and told the judge: “We couldn’t hear hall the testimony. Go back and try this case again. And, while you’re al it, make sure our fellow citizens and local news media can hear and see what’s going on.” That, of course, didn’t happen. Make no mistake; we have nothing but praise for this Barry County jury. In our estimation, those good and true jurors were remarkable: Some of them were relegated to the far reaches of that echo chamber and had to call out to the judge when their view was obstructed or they couldn’t hear. They had been charged with a duty and they were determined to accomplish it. I hey debated for hours, came back to the court with a question about intent and returned to their deliberations until all 12 could agree on a verdict. We praise them for their diligence and patience amid very difficult circumstances. But, as far as the process, as we said ear­ lier, the jury’s still out. Certainly, COVID-19 had an impact on that process. It had to. Everyone must understand that. We understand it. Jury selection took place at the Expo Center. T hat was a good idea to ensure that all pos­ sible precautions were in place to protect potential jurors and staff and prevent any potential spread of the coronavirus. We were able to attend and observe this portion of the proceedings and we appreci­ ated that access. But, once the trial got under way in that historic courtroom, most of the proceedings were off-limits most of the time to the local media and all members of the public who had no involvement with the case. The excuse was that there was not enough space in the courtroom due to the need for social distancing. We don’t buy that excuse and wc aren’t the only ones. A juror told us later they wondered why we weren’t there and that there would have been space, even with social distancing, for a reporter. The idea, we were told, was that media and members of the public could watch it on YouTube. In addition, a live feed was supposed to be set up with a big screen for viewing in the Tyden Center so members of the public who didn’t have access to YouTube at home (which would be quite a few people) could see it. Take a wild guess at how these worked out. Most of the YouTube testimony was vir­ tually inaudible unless witnesses gave oneword answers. And, when we checked Tyden Center, there was no livestream and the room was empty. It is our fervent hope that the judges care­ fully reconsider this process and find a way to allow at least a limited local news and citizen presence in the courtroom. No offense intended to lhe historic signif­ icance and architectural beauty of lhe cir­ cuit courtroom, but the audio system in that courtroom stinks. And it has stunk for years. We noticed it wasn’t so great when wc cov­ ered a civil matter in that courtroom last year. Typically, as you face the judge, jurors would traditionally sit just lo the left of the witness box, where they would be able to sec the faces of the witnesses and hear what they said. But social distancing concerns prompted moving the jurors to the gallery where lhe audience usually sits and allow­ ing for at least a 6-foot perimeter around each person. On paper, that seems like a good idea. But, in practice, it meant that some jurors were sitting at the back of that _____ nace while wilnesses were lesti«vemX otherend of that long expanse, familiar with that space must ve S I potential problems. They prorea.‘Tablets so jurors could sec exhibits vided IJb|c so they could hear some of and <arPh ' bul. given the problems wHhsynchronizing sound systems, it didn’t. Tlwn tte tablet batteries died, so a county T" uv« h id to swap them out during witeT«Snony which prompted complaints from die defense attorney, who said it was a ^"ki be interesting to know if the jurors* distance from Krebs and other w,tnesses - and their inability to hear every word they said and to clearly see their expressions when they spoke - made some difference in the verdict they "?chedAt times, key testimony was «na“^b,'\ The reason for this was not just the terri­ ble acoustics in that room, the setup was abysmal. The audio system, with sevend speakers in the courtroom, and the Zoom feed were not synchronized, so several sec­ onds of delay would occur between when attorneys were speaking and when their voices could be heard. . We’re told the system was checked poor to lhe trial. If so, it wasn’t checked very well. Years ago, some consideration was giv­ ing to addressing the acoustics in that court­ room, yet nothing was done. Our heartfelt plea - to the court and county commission­ ers who likely have to OK the expenditure — is to proceed, quickly, to fix that circuit courtroom sound system. Technology exists to mitigate severe audio problems without having to make drastic structural changes in the room. The state even has a grant program for courts that would help cover the costs of necessary technology upgrades due to COVID-19. The county has nothing to lose in asking for this funding, especially when COVID-19 precipitated this horrible situa­ tion. Ultimately, we are holding to that thought - that this pandemic is ultimately what led to the unfortunate chain of events that occurred in court last week. And we, are very (grateful wc were, allowed in the courtroom for a couple of rare moments so we could report bn some key testimony. But we weren’t able to cover the case as well as we would have done if we had been allowed in the courtroom for the duration of the trial - and that’s the part that was mys­ tifying to us. For many years, the relationship between the local judiciary and this news organiza­ tion has been grounded on mutual respect, good communication and a solid under­ standing of the important roles both institu­ tions serve. Somewhere in the past couple of weeks, that wagon came off lhe rails. We don’t know why and. no, lhe pandemic doesn’t excuse it. Here's what was most inexplicable: The court and its staff didn’t seem to place much importance on local reporting. What seemed to matter, to the sole exclu­ sion of any other consideration, was the process and the players. What was missed in all that careful plan­ ning is that local news reporting is part of the process. And that’s the irony. The process, which was so important, ended up being flawed. And most of lhe players - the witnesses, lhe victims, the local news organization attempting to report what was going on and the people served by it — are the worse for it. Except for David Krebs. th co,nsidcrably less punishment than he likely deserves. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30011 i • .. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services) L 91 MlCh’ 48909’ 5tate Representative Julie Calley, Republican. 87th District <ah . o Michigan House of Representatives. N-1191 House Offir-a Barry County), 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house m! „Bui,dln9’ Lansing. Ml State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican. 19th Distriri o 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019 Email: SenJBizon@sJn . S£nate’ Phone 517‘ mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml ^909a,e-Mlchi9an-9°v; U.S. U.S. House of Representatiu^o Justin Amash, Independent. 3rd District (All of BaVrv r . Office Building, Washington. D.C. 20515-2203. phone^Po?^^' 114 Cannon House 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW Suite 4An n 2^5-3831t fax (202) 225phone (616) 451-8383. ’ *Ulte 46o> Grand Rapids, Mich 49503. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow. Democrat, 702 Hart Senate rm: ~ 20510. phone (202) 224-4822. al° Ol,lce Building. Washington D C Gary Peters, Democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office r..:m ' ' ' 2202, phone (248) 799-0850 District office: Gerald R F.'JTashln9lon. D C 20510­ 720 110 Michigan Street NW. Grand Rapids, ^.^^^'al Building Room • y ou* phone (616) President's comment line: t-202-456-1111 Canu^i > , ' and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. ’ ap"01 ‘"'onnation |ine lor Congress �■ ■£B Polls open 7 a.m. Tuesday I-uke Ftxmchcck Primary eleeii^ ""'I'" ner. ”* n8h< around the corhi"cL""s"gu,7l|.:'-,n ^csdl’y- v<x™ will ci«y of Hastings and v'"8 localions in *hc across Barry r nd Vlda8es and townships Palmer said Wed1<Xy;.C0Unt> Pam Everiho^^^.^'ilSpm. Tuesday votmth lht Pr,mary election is a physical m ' 1aVe Until ^°nday lo request have'XT abSen";C ba"0*"*>• absentee ballm bv^ ‘° .requcsl a maiIcd nmnieipaa^XC,,,,g,heirn:SPCC,iVe -—Charter Township Clerk Robin Hawthorne said it's important lor primary voters to remember to slick lo one side of lhe ballot; don’t cross over or the ballot will be spoiled. Michigan has closed primaries. I lawlhome said. While primary voters will see both the Democrat and Republican candidates on their ballots, they may vote for candidates in one party only. -When voters are physically at the polls, they can re-fill out a ballot.” Hawthorne said* “But dial’s not the case with absentee. If anything is wrong, their (absentee) vote can’t be counted.” Clerks across the county are asking voters to wear masks and maintain social distancing guidelines at the polling places. The Banner — Thursday. July 30, 2020 — Page 5 City iiottnes some residents of lead water pipes Savan»h Katxh(,|v Ct>ntrib<"<>inVfrhl;r A a-portMing>sonuXSf'i,y 5°,,ncil indicates ev^31nie»' plant nPpt^ c">’s wastewawr »» walls G,t ,l‘|ing pounng f bujjding will be " Whcrc the headwordtJ1Ckling thc . Now the c.«y ih t n ial)onol lead service , Ccki l()ld ^lem. City­ Manager Jerry < to ‘ a?°Unc,lLeiter* 1eX “ vre,'d„rr,<lcnt' lc‘ them know th >,in(| jft ( % an invenlory through “picted. the eiiy J’I?Pe<;l,o!’sOnce that s « £ |jllc rCp|Sc..5 *‘11 re-evahtatc its lead mem program. ••The CHY »f ", ,ine\ ■ ,s to diminale lead service • inveshgaljng and ....................................... . creating a distribution materials system inven­ tory. This inventory will help us determine how many lead service lines or service lines previously connected to lead are in our system today.” the letter reads. “Lead can cause seri­ ous health and development problems, espe­ cially in developing fetuses and young chil­ dren. ... Lead service increases your risk of lead exposure. This letter serves to notify you of this risk and help you reduce your risk of lead exposure.” The city is providing water treated with an orthophosphate specially chosen to create a coating on the inside of the pipes to prevent the lead form leaching into drinking water. The city also monitors lhe water for lead and reports those findings in the annual water . r V quality report "Plumbing inside your home may contain lead, such as faucets, valves and solder joints,"* the letter noted. “It is recommended that you contact a licensed plumber and have a plumb­ ing assessment done lo determine if your home plumbing is a source of lead in your drinking water.” A lead service investigation crew is using the Vactor to determine where lead pipe replacements need to be done. I hv city is required to inform residents if there is or was lead service provided to their home, and that they will be put on the lead service replacement program once that kicks off. Czarnecki said. State revenue sharing decreases result in township cuts Register of deeds office needs change To the editor: Let s clean up the issues at the Bam County Register of Deeds Office. Barbara Hurless has been very difficult to deal with al the Register of Deeds office. She has a history of not co-operating with fellow courthouse workers. In the summer of 2016, Hurless was accused of improper policy changes making lhe jobs of fellow couniy workers extremely difficult to complete. Ask lhe assessors, title examiners, survey­ ors, township supervisors, county taxpayers about the experience they had in the court­ house. Numerous special meetings were called, which she refused to attend, saying she isn’t paid to attend. For weeks, the conflict was covered by The Hastings Banner and WBCH radio. She wasted taxpayers’ money. Checking through the Freedom of Information Act. it was discovered she has spent many, many hours conducting her own personal business, e-mails and phone calls all during her on-duty time. She has spent numerous days absent from work to attend Ionia County Courthouse with frivolous law­ suits she had filed against her family. Hurless is double-dipping: She is being paid to be the Register of Deeds, paid for attending court and accruing mileage, and over-billing, which benefits her. Voters on Aug. 4 need to be informed about the candidates. Is it experience or is it manip­ ulation? We need to get our courthouse working efficiently and make it a welcoming place to conduct our business. Nancy Reed, Thomapple Township Rutiand Township candidates Hall, Miller sre impressive lb the editor: ' After reading the responses from those can­ didates for the Rutland Township Bqarp. I am impressed with two new* candidates: Gene Hall and Eric Miller. They would bring a wealth of needed real world experience to the board. Both gave insightful responses to lhe questions posed by The Hastings Banner. Like most township boards, the current board for Rutland is pretty much made up of members who wish to keep the status quo. Two current board members couldn’t even find the time to respond to the Banner's ques­ tions. . .( r Both" ofi'llie 'aforementioned candidates < involy,^: To • come to the board meetings. One said he will have a website lo keep residents up-to-date on township activity. Please vote on Tuesday, Aug. 4. I know for sure lhe names of two who will get my vote. John Llewellyn. Hastings (write Us A Letter: Luke rroncheck Staff Writer Townships across Barry County are already receiving less funding, but the biggest cut is yet to come, Yankee Springs Township trcasurer Alice Jansma said Townships are partially funded (brou^h state revenue sharing, which comes in the form of bimonthly checks. Normally. Yankee -pnngs Township gets a check for about $60.000 every two months, Jansma said. The amount was down to about $51,000 for Marchand April. "The last state revenue-sharing check wasn’t as bad as I anticipated" Jansma said. Township officials have not received a check for May and June, but Jansma said she expects the decrease in funding to continue, and potentially get worse. "I don’t think anyone knows for sure right now,” Jansma said. Township officials have heard various pro­ jections. Thomapple lownship treasurer Deb Buckowing said. Currently the state is projecting a funding decrease of 4.7 percent for local entities, she added. “This percentage could certainly change, as so much else has in regard to the COVID-19 virus and trickle-down effect.” Buckowing said. "We arc cautiously optimistic with the state’s 4.7 percent projection, however, we realize and are preparing for the reduction lo be as great as* 14 lo 20 percent.” Regardless of lhe decrease percentage, Jansma said filling out the 2020 U.S. Census one of the key things people can do lo help their local municipalities‘get funding. "The census is super important.” Jansma said. The amount of state revenue each tow nship receives is based on the most recent census data. Based on the 2010 Census, Yankee Springs Township has a population of about 4.000. Jansma said the population has likely gone up since then. “The money the township receives is based on lhe census data,” she said. "It people don’t fill out die census, the lownship will receive meeting after board members reviewed a less money.” S9.71X) decrease in state funding. In Barry Township, board members are 'The township usually received $53,000 in expecting a decrease of around $40,000 in .state revenue sharing every two months. The state funding this year, clerk Deb Knight said. payment was down lo $42,000 last cycle, While the decrease will hit lhe budget, Prairieville Township treasurer Judy Pence Knight said she doesn’t expect the decrease to said. have much of an impact on the township. The decrease in funding, along with several "If things go normally, we should be OK," other issues, led to the end of the recycling Knight said. program, she added. However, if lhe township faces an emer­ “We're trying to be really fugal with what gency or a situation where it needs funding we’re doing," Pence said. "We’re watching quickly, she said the decrease could put lhe our pennies." township in a precarious situation. The program cost the township $4,000 a As for now, Knight said lhe decrease will quarter and served about 200 residents. lead to board members postponing some cap­ "It wils not an easy decision.” Clerk Rod ital improvement projects. Goebel said. “I’ve been passionate about this The Prairieville Township Board of program since 1 got on the board." Trustees is facing a different situalion. The recycling program will continue Board members have already taken sleps lo Throughout August, as scheduled. A citizen offset funding cuts by suspending the recy­ recycling committee has already been estab­ cling program, beginning Sept. 1. lished lo discuss continuing recycling in the The decision was made at the July 8 board lownship. County board to discuss now bulletproof vests Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Tlie Barry County Board of Commissioners will meet as a committee of the whole at 9 a.m. Tuesday in lhe Barry Community Enrichment Center’s Leason Sharpe Hall in Hastings. The undersheriiT is expected to* ask the board about lhe purchase of new- bulletproof vests. County Administrator Michael Brown said Wednesday. Representatives from the Village of Middleville also are scheduled to address lhe board about the annexation of an 80-acre par­ cel of land on Bender Road in Thomapple Township. The parcel is the planned site of a new Thomapple Kellogg learning center. made possible by a $425 million bond passed November 2019. School district officials sought the annex­ ation to connect the new facility to the vil­ lage’s water and sewer system. Construction isn’t likely to get underway on the new build­ ing until early 2021. Commissioner approval is the last step in the annexation process after both Thomapple Township Board of Trustees and the Middleville Village Council approved the request. Court officials also are expected to ask the board for approval of additional Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act fund­ ing requests. J The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits be accepted. . I ptters serving the function of “cards of thanks will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined GOD’S J.GOU This?? by the editor. . Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. . “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. . In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per . WeTeferleTeTto be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. The Hastings BtllWlGI* 111 Denoted ‘ol^n,e^grBanZV /lnc: ™ ^Sfe^^^1'269*945-5192 Frederic Jacobs . advertising department . CLnutad ads accwpJcd Monday through FrKbv fl.SOam Id 500 pen. b publisher S CEO Hank Schuurlng CFO .NEWSROOM• Rebecca Pierce (Editor) kX Mauror (Copy Editor) (Sports Edttor) Taylor Owens Gteg Chandler Scott Ornmon Ty Greenfield Mike Gilmore Colleen Egleston Jennie Yonker Subscription Rates: $45 per year in Barry County $50 per year in adjoining counties $55 per year elsewhere POSTM/ISTFH Suod addrwa change i0 PO Bo* JW Hatingt, Ml 490UI-01 £« Second Class PoMsge Paid at Hastingi. «> 490S8 Sundays at 9:30 am Green street Campus 209 West Green Street Hastings, Ml 49058 269-945-9574 httPs^greenstreetumc.faitli Dr»ve-jn , outdoor worship ^cebook worship Sundays at 10:30 am Hope Campus 2920 S. M-371 hvy. Hastings, Ml 49058 269-945-4995 https://hastingshopeumc.org jn.person. indoor worship Facebook worship ^erience God’s grace during these anxious Umes ftnd explore the book of Romans p August Worship series! Worship imloors, outdoors, iu-porson or on-line! �Page 6 — Thursday July 30. 2020 — The- Hastings Banner Financial FOCUS I «■ Provided by the Horry C ounty offices of Edward Jones Andrew Cove, AAMS® Member SlfX* Kevin Beck, AAMS® 400estate St., Suite B Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-4702 J^rea ■ ___ _ I____ Bonnie Bonita Atiery.____ I 421 VI. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-3553 Create strategies to help achieve your financial goals bounce back from large drops m value, so you might follow a more conservative strategy by investing in instruments that preserve principal, even though growth may be minimal. Know what you’ve invested for each goal. Once you know what type of strategy you should follow to achieve each of your goals, you’ll need to enact that strategy. How? By matching specific investment accounts with the appropriate goals. You should know why you own all your investments. Ask yourself these questions: What goal will this investment help me achieve? How much do I have allocated toward a specific goal? If I have an IRA. a 40l{k) and another account di voted to achieving the same goal, are they all working together effectively? The connections between your different investment accounts and your goals should be consistently clear to you. Understand trade-offs. Your various investment goals may be distinct, but they don’t exist in isolation. In fact, your strategy for achieving one goal may affect your ability to work toward another. For example, would significant investments in your child’s education change your funding for retirement? If you decide lo Like most people. you probably hav c many financial goals: a comfortable retirement. long vacations, college for your children or grandchildren. the ability to leave something behind for the next generation, and so on To achieve these various goals, you may have to follow different investment strategies - and you might have lo make some tradeoff’s along the way. To pursue this multi-goal/ multi-strategy approach, try to follow a clear course of action, including these steps: Define your goals - and invest appropriately. You will need to identify each goal and ask some questions: How much lime will you have to achieve this goal? How much return will you need from your investments and how much risk arc you willing to lake? With a longer-term goal, such as retirement, you may be able to invest more heavily in growthoriented vehicles with higher expected returns. Keep in mind, though, that the value of these investments will fluctuate, and they carry more risk than more conservative investments. However, your long-term horizon allows time to recover from short-term dips. But for a shorter-term goal, such as an upcoming vacation, your investments don’t have lhe same time to buy a vacation home when you retire, will that alter the legacy you’ll Ik* able lo leave lo y our family? Given limited financial resources, you may have to prioritize some goals and make some trade-oils in your investment moves. Truck your progress. Each of your strategies is designed lo achieve a particular goal, so you need to monitor the performance of the investments w ithin that strategy to help ensure you’re making progress. If it seems that you’re lagging, you may need to explore ways to get back on track. To manage these tasks successfully, you may want to work with a financial professional - someone who can look al your situation objectively, help you identify and quantify your goals, and suggest strategics designed to help you achieve them. Trying to achieve multiple financial goals can seem like a daunting task, but by saving and investing consistently through your working years, following a clear strategy, being willing to prioritize and accept trade-offs and getting lhe help you need, you can help yourself move forw ard. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC Call 269-945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classified ads Bonnie Bonita Avery, age 97 of Plainfield, passed away July 2|” 2020 at Brownsburg Meadows. She was born on June 16. 1923 in Montpelier, IN, to (|K. |ale far] anj Electra (Ballinger) Booher. Bonnie worked as an account supervisor in the healthcare industry’ for many years prior to her retirement. She loved her family and enjoyed gardening. She attended church at Main in Brownsburg. Survivors include her daughter. Pamela S. Wagley (David); stepchildren, William Avery. Jr.. Berry Avery. Barbara Avery Caris (Roger). Robert Avery (Karen). Bart /Very: sister. LaVonne Brown; grandchildren. Jodie Minniear (Dennis), Tracy Teeter (Matt). Matthew’ Wagley (Kathy); great grandchildren. Evan (Makinsey), Logan, Isaiah Minniear, Nathan Teeter, Christopher. Autumn, Brooke Wagley; great-great grandchildren, Scarlctte. Grey. Indie Minniear. She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands. William Avery . Wayne Lantis and brothers,Ralph and Dwight Booher. A memorial service will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday. Aug. 8. 2020 in Hall­ Baker Funeral Home. Plainfield, with visitation from 2 p.m. until the service in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Susan G Komen Central Indiana 3500 DePauw Blvd . Suite 2070 Indianapolis. IN. . 46268. Online condolences may ' be made at w ww’ bakerfuncralservicc.com Rhoda V. (Taylor) {.chman, age 71. of Hastings was bom September 8. 1948 and passed away July 23. 2020. Rhoda lived a life full of joy. She enjoyed playing the organ, and raising animals, especially her cats. Sewing was one of her favorite past times and helping others with the local food pantry and women’s abuse center. Rhoda was a very' kind, loving woman and touched everyone’s hearts she came in contact with. She was very deeply loved and will be dearly missed by her family and friends. Rhoda was preceded in death by her parents, Margaret E. Culver and Lawrence Taylor; brothers. Robert Taylor. Richard Taylor and Ronald lay lor. and son Timothy Rybicki. She is survived by her step-father. Robert Culver of Lake Odessa; brother. Roger ’laylor of Lakeview; sisters. Ruth Ann Hinkle of Arizona and Rosalee Brown of Iowa; children. Ricky and Donna Rybicki of Lake Odessa, Michael Rybicki and fiance Cristal Rolfe of Ionia. Tina and Scott Anderson of Orleans, and Christopher Rybicki of Saranac, several nieces, nephew s, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Cremation has taken place; no services will be held upon Rhoda’s wishes. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, www. cancer.org/invohed or .American Cancer Society, P.O. Box. 22478. Oklahoma .Citv, OK 73'123. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. 7b leave an online condolence visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. John Charles Gaskill BibleStudyOffer.com __ —■■ FREE Bibie Study Guides & DVDs! Dental Insurance Get dental Insurance from Physicitr.s Mutual Insurance Company lo help cover the services you’re most likely to use - s/x-rry» v^Ft’nq? x/crc<»ni '/oentum n- A big thank you to all of you that sent cards and well wishes for my 96th birthday. I enjoyed it so much. Eric &tcyen~Kesling _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Elsie Sage_ _ _ _ _ _ _ 1-877-695-8260 Cw' u R FREE <14 nt, i 50ptu t rtn/ni zo OFF . MICHAEL KINNEY PLUMBING Licensed Master Plumber Licensed Journeyman Plumber New construction, remodel, repair, drain cleaning. BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEATERS Stone Dav Installation I .icensc Office (269) 948-2248 Mobile (269) 838-5112 Our Nation ^fM^nVndcrGi^ questions ask us . 218 E State St _ 945-9673 OPcN M #8110376 & Insured fAJVV of Hastings pure and simple/ SALT DELIVERY ROUTE DRIVER HIRING IMMEDIATELY Full time with benefits: • Medical • Retirement Work for a local business offering great pay. Email resume to: rickld^sbcglobal.net or apply in person at Cultigan Water Conditioning of Hastings 141 W. Woodlawn Ave.. Hastings, Ml 49058 269-945-5102 fabrics Excludes sale items, Enjs g-1-2020. To Celebrate 60- Weddi^ Anniver^rY Mary Louise Marsh, age 79. passed away on June 3,2020. in Brownsville. IX. Mary (Flora) was the daughter of Rudolph and Cleopha (Mohr) Flora, who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her husband. Harley Selden Marsh, on April 11.2014. and sister, Susan. Mary and Harley were married on December 26, 1959 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church. They celebrated their 50th anniversary in 2009. Mary taught first grade CCD classes for many years and was also a Brownie leader w hen her daughter was younger. Mary was a RN. She loved taking care of her patients and their families. She worked in ICLF most of her career. She and Harley spent a lot of time traveling when Harley was in the Navy. After retirement in 1998. they traveled around the country in their motor home until they decided they had found their paradise at Winter Haven Resort in Brownsville, 7’X. They made many friends while traveling, whom she kept in touch with. Mary was very active in activities al Winter Haven and was the activity director for nine years. She always said she loved every' minute (well most) of her job there. She also was on the Winter Haven Board of Directors for a period of lime. She is survived by her little Chihuahua “Penny”: one son. Andrew Marsh of Los Angeles. CA: one daughter. Becky Niehl of Tracy's Landing. MD; five grandchildren, Kadija, Alhaji, Sidney, Marley and Laila Shaw, of Tracys Landing, MD; two brothers. William (Susan) Flora of Muskegon, and Walter of Tennessee; one sister-in-law, Sharon (Glenn) Hansen of Florida and many nieces and nephews. At Mary’s request, no services will be held, and cremation has taken place. Memorial may be made lo Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America https:// myasthenia.org/ Many thanks to Dr. Luis Gaitan. Dr. Francis Gumbel, and Dr. Balesh Sharma for their care. Services are under the guidance of Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. Crematory & Flower Shop. 657 Springmarl Blvd.. Brownsville. (956) 350-848 John Charles Gaskill, age 62. of Hastings, passed away on July 28, 2020. John was born on June 3, 1958. the son of Charles Robert Gaskill and Betty Lou Burchett. He attended Hastings High School. He received his pilot’s license and loved to fly. He also enjoyed fishing, hunting, golfing, and practice shooting with his kids. John is preceded in death by his sister Karen Pelts. He is survived by his parents. Charles Robert Gaskill of Hastings, and Betty Lou (Burchett) Young of /Xugusla: daughter Jessica (Fred) Gaskill: son, John (Katelyn) Gaskill; sister, Kathleen (Charlie) Bappert of Coldwater, brother. David Gaskill of Olivet, Teresa Kurr - as John always said, "The best ex-wife a guy could ever have,*’ and very special and dear friends. Steve and Steph Quada. Visitation will be Friday. July 31,2020 at 10 a.m at Country Chapel. 9275 S M-37; Dowling, with a service to follow at 11a.m. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuncralhome.net. Eric Steven Kesling. age 66, of Grand Kaptds, formerly of 1-ansing/Hastings Eric was born on Jan. 13. 1954 in Mason and passed away July 22. 2020. Eric served tn the United Stales Anns and was a Jantastic chef at several Lansing and 'PMhnu restaurants. He catered special events tor family and friends Moving t„ Hastings, in 1993 hc He C Xn..K,ni WCia' b°"ds Windship. Hl lovingly became known as “Unde Woodchuck.” because thev L? w<xxlchuck and he was a woodmV1 IVC chucking tlra! «<hx1. He v«<’P everyone who knew him" by F-ric was preceded in death bv k; John (Jack) and Gertrude Keslin? P Martin Ilrignian-1 daught-r Brigntan; 'grandehdd? ’ £ ,lS’ Dana Hatherly. Karen (Ro)ir .K."n (Artl Kelly Keslinp; sever il ni ,)ona^son and -vices are s^SX7hCWSArrangements entrusted t v ? ,nK*’ Funeral Home log v ^,L’kers Lxslie Box 503, LesliJ, Ml 49<si Sl^'l/P.O. 11 517-878-6600. July 30, 202(j llicy have 3 ’’hikin-n. 17 ^dchildrvn. UBA?/ UjnmddMidfvn. _____ ———"" • Traditional and Cn-nv.o • Piv-Planning Services • Ltrgc Parking Lot. n • SeningAll Faiihs E—- H SJTV . ‘ " ’ ‘ Cn ives i 11CaP Accessible .328 s. Broadw iv n 4W5 L Sialr Rif, Hubtin^a. Ml 4905ft Owin r M-inagtr Family Owned and Operated ------*-------------- «TTi------------ �J*1?rP?pP*e Manor employee may have had false positive COVID-19 test Greg Chandler Staff W riter An employee ol Thomapple Manor who last week tested positive for the COVID 19 virus may haw had a false positive test, officials at the county-owned skilled-nursing facility say. Administrator Don Haney said Tuesday the employee tested negative lor the virus on a follow-up deep nasal swab test taken Monday. A second test was given to lhe employee Tuesday, Haney said. •Wc may not get the {results oil lhe second test until Thursday or Friday," he said. Thomapple Manor officials learned about the initial positive test July 23. The employee worked in a non-residenlial area ol the care facility and had minimal contact with | residents. The individual did not show any symptoms of illness. Haney said. If the employee had a second negative test. Haney said the indiv idual could return to work. However, a spokeswoman for lhe Barry-Eaton District Health Department said even with a second negative lest, the employee may have to wail lo relum to work. “In most cases, wc would slill have someone wait oul that l()-day isolation period despite a second negative test." deparimenl spokeswoman Sarah Suma said. “We want to be absolutely sure they cannot spread COVID-19" ’ Six other employees who worked in lhe front office who were thought lo have been exposed have since tested negative and have been allowed lo return to work. No new cases involving residents have lucmred, Haney said. ’ Thomapple Manor is Mill taking precautions pending the outcome of the follow-up lest. All outdoor visits between residents and their families remain suspended until further notice. C'leaning and sanitizing procedures are being followed closely, and employees go through a temperature check and are asked screening, questions when thev enter lhe facility to begin their work day. Haney said. Thomapple Manor has 155 residents, including two who are being housed in a separate COVID-19 unit of the facility. As of Tuesday. Barry County has had 142 positive eases of COVID-19, of which 124 have recovered. The county has had two deaths resulting from the virus. The county. as of Wednesday, had 16 active cases of the virus. Suma said. ‘‘Contact tracing procedures are being initiated to identify additional individuals who may have been exposed." Suma said. "As with all cases of COVID-19, ill individuals w ill isolate, and close contacts of lhe ill individual will quarantine for 14 days post-exposure." Health department staff continues to encourage residents lo lake steps lo minimize exposure to the vims, including washing hands, using hand sanitizers, practicing social distancing and wearing masks. WSIbutr Loew is turning SS Wilbur Loew, of Hastings, was bom July 30, 1932. He will be is celebrating his 88th birthday on July 30. 2020 al Thomapple Manor. (*No v isitors at this time). A card shower would be appreciated in his honor. Cards may be sent to Wilbur Loew, 2700 Nashville Rd.. Hastings. Ml 49058. No gifts please. Marriage ficenses Edin Dedic, Caledonia and Katherine Johanna Kamp. Middleville Bryce Thomas Angel. Hastings and Katrlynn Renee Vincent. Nashville Jamie Allison Vassau. Plainwell and Jacob Scott VanBmggen, Plainwell Christina Marie Wortinger. Battle Creek and Paige Michelle Perry. Battle Creek Brian Richard Heennga. Hastings and Patricia Lynn Johnson. Hastings Kathleen NanneUc Champion. Augusta and Ronald Dean Smidi. Nashv ilie Zalal Sang Cung, 'Tucson. AZ and Kniangthn Khun Thlaui. Fort Thomas, K Y Kayla Rose Katsma. Middleville and Maxwell James Teunc, Grand Rapids Bradly J. Sears. Bellevue and Taylor Leigh Gallagher, Bellevue Willkun Larry Cappon Jr.. Middleville and Rene Krueger. Middleville l-oii Anne Larsen. Hastings and Billy G. ^Lrk, Hastings Jessica Lynn Ebels. Middleville and William Andrew Moody . Middleville f hri.stophcr William West nt. Middleville a,id Chelsea Lynn Workman. Middleville David Porter Walter Jr.. Middleville and Lynne Fa sold. Caledonia Todd Allen ( ase. Battle Creek and Amy Ixiui’.c Voughl. Battle Creek Jamie Lynn Drbrovv. Wayland and Bradley Janies Dennis, Middleville Ghristopher J. Plekkcr, Freeport and Olivia Allene Kip|k*. Mancclonia Jillian Beth Zull. Hastings and Ronald lare Collins, Hastings Tom and Sharon Maurer marking 60 years Lillie did Thomas O. Maurer know when he injured his hand in a com picker in October 1958, he was about lo meet the love of his life. Tom, 23, had attended MSU but was working al his brother’s farm near Nashville, unsure whal he would do with the rest of his life. Losing four fingers on his dominant hand and the ensuing weeks of recovery ultimately helped him determine his future. Sharon MolTatl was a nurse working at St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Rapids where Tom was taken after injuring his hand. And he was soon taken with the pretty young nurse whose sweet demeanor veiled the indomitable caregiver within. The two were married July 30, I960, at Si. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Grand Rapids, not far from where Sharon had spent her childhood. She easily transitioned from her quiet family with just one older sister to loin's loud and lively bunch of 13 siblings. After completing his education degree al MSU. Tom took a job as a teacher at Hastings High School, and Sharon took io life in a small town, first in the city of Hastings, and later on a 5()-acre properly in the country. Tom taught math for more than 30 years, along with driver education retiring in 1994. Sharon worked for many years as a nurse al Thomapple Manor, twice trying to retire before succeeding the third time. Both were active in their church. St. Rose. They have been blessed with seven children, 15 grandchildren and. so far p great-grandchildren (with one more on the way.) No formal celebration is planned, because ol the pandemic. So, friends, former students and others are invited to send a curd or nole sharing •» favorite memory with Tom and Sharon. Their addrev> is 1043 Vi|l:l?e I)nvc Hastings Ml 49058. I The Hailing'; Banner — Thursday. July 30. 2020 Page 7 Delton-area detent ion basin up 5 feet from last summer ,ul5c J/u"11”*1* 561// h;i,*in near c lhe dctc’11”” h wasat94{'x,kcd L^e is filling K up 5 Irom i’^’abovc sea level Ji’b 1' Jear’s low pointsljre whiff haPlk,n........ •AVe’rf 0 (- )ni«ni'‘Sioncr I Barry <■<«".<> I”»",rn lheba,in,s said/ A" <" /r'i^nse in " hng up. he said- ,u pOmps that in,lv LVeI ,ed I*“KSS Long lakes drainage district. Dull said. , “h’s really exciting, we’re getting close. Dull said. “If anyone wants this project to move Luster, call the governor and lell her to reinstate DNR and EGLE employees to wairking five days a week." Some residents on Cloverdale and Long lakes still have concents with tl»e plan and the water going north through (heir lakes.'I hose concerns led I^mg Lake resident Cynthia Schmitz to organize a live question-andanswer evening event for Thursday. July 30. Drain Commissioner candidate Kyle Staines, who is running against Dull on the Republican primary ballot Aug. 4, declined to participate because of work commitments. The event will be streamed via Pucebook Live through the Cloverdale Drain Facebook page. Cloverdale Lake is down 5 16 inches from this year’s high point. Dull said. “Because of our monitoring, we believe when Cloverdale luike is down, there will be more water movement going north naturally," Dull said. I»ng Lake currently sits an inch lower than the intended high-level alter the project’s completion, he added. Elaine Garlock A scaled-down Depot Day was held Saturday. There was music and food, but no games, no awards, no song and dance act, a small canopy instead of a huge one. Two music groups played for two hours. The food was nearly as usual with brats, hot dogs and all the trimmings. The ice cream feature had packaged bars and ice cream sandwiches, instead of sundaes. Did you ever have a family reunion while staying home? One Gratiot/Monlcalm family had such a happening Sunday, the usual meeting time. Members had been invited by mail weeks in advance to use Zoom at the appointed time. With the secretary living in Grand rapids, that was the chosen base. Altogether, nine frames were used with 15 participants. They ranged from Chelsea to Big Rapids with others from Grand Rapids, Lake Odessa, Rockford and Carson City. The usual report was given of deaths, births and marriages, along with one crucial health report. The family is nearing its 100th reunion with plans to continue until that year and will then fold. One couple thought to wear name lags. They also had a poster on their wall that indicated that indicated the event and year. A few blocks of sidewalk have been replaced on Fifth and Sixth Avenues south of Second Street. Youngsters used lo go rollerskating on lhe smooth walks, but over lhe years, all those lovely trees kepi growing taller and wider with their roots lilting lhe sidewalks, so skating was no longer an option. It was eyeij^diQicult in places to push a stroller or wheelchair. Minutes of the township board meeting indicate that Mark Salazar is the new sexton of Lakeside Cemetery. With 33 acres involved, that means a lot of grass mowing besides all the care of lots with grave openings and burial of cremains. There also is a lot of tree trimming. few years ago, an unusual storm took out a dozen evergreen trees that were about 80 years old. Fortunately because of wind patterns, all the trees fell into the drives and did little to disturb markers. However, some of the trees fell across Cemetery Road and temporarily blocked the road. They were quickly moved to the side to avoid traffic problems. Catkins are forming on hazelnut bushes. Most years the squirrels know just lhe right day to harvest lhe nuts so the homeowners get none. This is one project of Tree City USA, established to proclaim qualifying towns Tree City USA. This involves taking an inventory of all trees on city/village property having a person delegated to oversee the program, establish funding for continuing a program of planting trees. Lake Odessa has had such a distinction for far more than 20 years. On the occasion of an early Arbor Day, the students from West Elementary walked lo the newly established depot on Emerson Street to witness a tree being planted using the big scoop with movable blades that deposited a huge tree from elsewhere in town onto lhe depot grounds and then lhe blades were swung back to a vertical position and then raised oul of lhe soil. Il was a first chance for even lhe adults to see such a performance. This week is the delayed annual conference for United Methodist in Michigan. Lay delegates are at home using Zoom for voting. hich P°'"‘,his sum,, ,e\!1ro"1 ,hc <)28.5-l<x« "8X'C Crook^'-v *!" Sl,itt -Our into'11 we c!ln •• ‘-“ke down to -If there s an . *e got to tlx it,” he -d' “Y<£ " fight\ 7’°l" ,h'=re 10 fire truck* •■»“ * ,r 10 minutes, say you’re out <•''«>You are going io fight that thing until itsdonc." The Watson D»tn^ project is being operand under a normal r Dull said. But. rhe pumping 1 l*r Owked I-ake inlo the detention basin is being donc undcr jm emergency frf!’8 CJ/ the Michigan Drain Code. Public Ac 40 of |956 ••Houses were underwaIcr. We had to pump.’’ Dull said. we hadn’t done any pumping and hadn spent any money on emergency pumping, rooked and Gias by lakes would be 4 feel higher.” Barry County has had 27 inches of rain this year. Dull said. Data from the National Weather Service shows precipiDtion in Barry County has steadily increased over the past five years. In 2019. NWS reported 51.37 inches of precipitation. lhe previous four years saw 44.45 inches (2018). 39.43 inches (2017), 46.29 inches (2016). and 33.11 inches (2015) of rain. “Waler would probably be backed up into Pleasant Lake,” if not for the pumping, he said. “We’d be incredibly worse off." Of the estimated $1.6 million in project costs so far. Dull said about $20()JX)() of the expenses have gone toward emergency pumping, while the other roughly $1.3 million has gone toward environmental studies, engineering costs and other expenses. Lrcedorn of Information Act requests cost the drain districts money, too, Dull said. If a resident continually asks questions or reaches oui to an engineer directly, the engineer’s work is an incurred cost to the drain district. Right now. Dull said all he can do is continue to pump water into lhe detention basin. In fact, the reason two pumps were installed near lhe Delton detention basin was to move water north through the nearby swamp. Cloverdale, and Long lakes, and eventually into the Thomapple River, he said. However, the plan cannot move forward until a permit is approved by officials w ith the Michigan Department of Environment, Great luikes and Energy. All the information for the permit was submitted to EGLE officials July 6. Dull said. As part of lhe permitting process, Dull and engineers are developing invasive species filtration systems for the various checkpoints along lhe northward pumping route. A floating screen filter will be placed in lhe detention basin to stop the spread of Eurasian milfoil and slarry stonewort from moving north The screen is being designed to rise and fall w ith the waler. Another filtration method Dull is exploring is lhe installation ol a sand-based system at the output ot lhe pipe carrying water from the delent ion basin to the swamp. “Il will save money in the long run through a decrease in maintenance expenses,” Dull said. Additionally, he plans to install a screen system between Cloverdale and l^ong lakes lo prevent spread of invasive species. The road commission will pay a majority of lhe cost for residents in the Cloverdale and State (Police hosting virtual recraitment The Michigan State Police will host a virtu­ al recruiting webinar Saturday, Aug. 1, from 11 a.m. to I P-,n- ‘Gr P^ns interested in learning more about a carter as a Michigan State Trooper. 'Lhe webinar will provide an overview of the minimum quahtications and essential job functions of a li<x)|>er. information about tak­ ing lhe entry-level law ‘-nlorcement exam, the MSP hiring pn>eess, tnx)lx.r sJum)| and the field training o icer program. Applicants nlU>t JH>S.SCSS a High scluxd diploma or GED< * ‘J east 21 years of age by recruit school l?™ uahon U1K| be of gtX)d moral character ",t l. n<) ^elony convictions. Additionally.;,n piUst be a U.S. cit­ izen and a Mid”L’an r^saknt nl (|K, ()f Worship Together ...at the church ofyour choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... IIXSTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of Who Jesus Is To fhc World Around Us". 2635 N M43 Hwy.. P.O Box X. Hastings. Telephone 269-945­ 9121. Hnail hjJlincLUJBdllXWU Web site www.hasfings IktllKMlJ.ailll Pastor Brian leed. Student Ministries Director, F.nuna Miller. Worship Director. Martha Stoefzel. Sunday •Morning Worship: 9am and 10.30 a m beginning June 21 until further notice. Due to Ilk* citnenl health crisis, our nursery is temporarily dosed and we are temporarily suspending all Children’s ministries. Our chinch sanctuary is set up lor social disiinciiig. We do nor require wearing masks, but do encourage il. especially while walking ihnnigh the building k’forr and alter services. Ple.be keep your family togeiher during lhe voiship service. We are a multi generational chinch Linuly and undcistand that while this could mean outbursts t»r jxx’iy breaks, wcarenot inconvenienced bj jour little one In an effort to kip you. we tire providing weekly activity lugs tor each child These lugs are lo be taken home or disposed of after each use Vacation Bible am SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCHOFDELW.N 7025 Milo Rd. P.O. Box 765, (corner of Milo Rd & S M 43), IX’llon. Ml 49046 Pastor Roger Claypool. (517) 204-9390 Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11 3(*am. Nursery and Children’s Ministry. YVcdnesday night Bible study and prayer lime <* lo 7 30 pm HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH UxxMlfavvn, Hustings. 309 F. .Matt Pastor. Sunday Services 10 30 am Sunday Sihu’J tai all Jfo. 1° k) a m. Worship Service. Senior High Youth Group 6 8 pin Young Adulh 6-9 pm Wednesday. Night 6)0-8 pm. AWANA(Giildren Kindergarten5ih Grade), 6 30-8 p.m. .Middle School Youth Group; 630 pm. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948 SIMM for infoimatkm. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd Pastor Randall Bertrand WbeeLchaii accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 xm. Worship Time 10:30 am. Youth activities call for information CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N Jefferson Street Worship 10 a nt Ntasety provided. Pastor Peter Adanb. conf.ret 616 690­ 8609 I.IIEG UE COMMUNITY' CHURCH 301 E State Rd, P.O. Box 273. Hastings. Ml 49058. Pastor Scott Dice. Phone: 269-948 0900 Website, vvvv w.lifegaleCc com. Sunday Worship to a rn Wcdnexlav lafe Group 6 30 p.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacev Road. Dowling. MI 49050 Pastoi, Sieve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone Sunday Service: 10 a ni. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3)85 N. Biuadvvav. Hastings. Ml 49058 |*hooe'M5 265-1. Worship Services; .Sunday, 9.45 a m This information on worship stnice ispnnidedby The Hastings Hanner, the churches oiiddiese local. Imsmessix________ sfWob Hhwings Registration ,s ‘’ L' UsB2web.ztx»m.us/ webinar/regixier ' X)bXZSG\VZqVcMlDgLRg- Once,^ ; attendees will receive a conBrnb‘1 . • "'ith instructions on lunvtojoin'h'-^1’ More informal101 «v hnind al michigan.gov/MSBjob*' : Tpr Kellie Shaffer al ShuH vr ’•ait .gov or Kenneth Rochcllainx-hel^^ gov. School - Wed., Thurs, and Fri.. Augusl 5-7. 9 a m.-noonOutdoor Service. Aug. 9 at 10 30 ant One sen uv only. For more information contact the* church. ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S Jefferson. 269 945 4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip Mass 4 30 p m. Saturday Mass 8 and 11 a m Sunday. P1.EASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Licey Road, Dowlimt, Ml 49050 ' Pastor. Steve Olmstead (269)758-3021 chinch phone. Sunday Service: 10 00 htURMH^M 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 �P.XJt’ 8 — Thutwtay, July 30, 2020 — Thr H*r. tings Banr<r - ■■ - . 4g| | * Two current Maple Valley board members plan write-in I Ml.. Luke FYoochcck Stuff Writer Maple Valley Board of Education vice president Andrea Montgomery missed the deadline to file to run for school board. so her name will not appear on the November ballotBut Montgomery Mil! plans to ntn •’» write-in candidate. ,, , (1Ii, >| deadline, current truMce As of Il s ’l l ...... ,iv candidate who had ' v m-r was the only candidate w ho had Justin Kct school bomxl. Tin* district ja) (cml and has tour v.Krtncws i lhr\» nironicn said she had been operating assumption that she still had just und- r a month ,o f,k’ ShC lhoU^,n lhe f,,m£ ^giaDocfor Univers Dear Natalia. Bee wings nta> be small, but they arc reallv strong. I learned all about bee w ings front m) friend Melanie Kirby, a honey bee researcher at Washington State University. Kirby said you can think about bee wings as if they were a kite. If you make a kite out of thin tissue, it might rip. But if you make it out of a strong plastic film, it will be stronger. Bee wings are made of a material called chitin (pronounced kite-in) and it's a lot like keratin, the material that makes up your fingernails. Chitin is what makes up the wings on each side of the bee’s body They have two sets of wings. The forewings are longer, and the hindw ings are shorter. When a bee isn’t flying, the hindwings often get tucked in behind the forewings. Kirby said chitin covers the bee’s entire body and makes up the exoskeleton. While you have a skeleton under your skin, bees wear their skeletons on the outside of their bodies. Bee wings are very thin and transparent, which means you can see through them, a bit like clear glass. But the strength of the material can help a bee carry a lot of nectar. In fact, a bee can carry a load of nectar that is almost equal lo its Ixxly weight. J learned chitin isn’t the only thing that makes up bees* wings. There also are veins filled with hemolymph, or insect blood. And there are air tubes and nerves, too. These parts add strength and stability to the wings. Kirby said. The veins are kind of like the cross sec­ tions of the sticks in a kite. Different types of bees have different vein patterns on their Green who Was llra c|ccIet) in 2OI3. has T a |d hre lCrnis on lhe school board. His SmZ^S-n up and graduated wings. "Scientists can identify bees by looking at the wings close up under a microscope. And like a kite, (a bee wing] has a cross section of sticks, or the veins, which rein­ force the wing.” Kirby said. l he wings are connected to muscles in lhe middle section of the bee. or its thorax. Small barbs called hamuli can connect the forevving and hindwing together. When the hamuli are connected, the wings come together lo act like one big kite. This helps the bees glide as they tly. When the hamuli are separated, the vv ings arc like little rotary motors moving around in a circle like a propeller. This helps the bees gel lift and steer themselves in differ­ ent directions as they fly. Bees’ wings are the last thing to fonn before they emerge as adults (bees also develop through metamorphosis similar to butterflies). Their w ings will carry the bees through their whole lifetime. Researchers estimate that bees get about 5(X) miles on (heir wings before the wings Start to tear and wear oul. Bees fly from flower to flower. They move tiny grains of pollen around to help plants grow things like nuts, fruits, and vegetables. The process is called pollina­ tion. The next time you hear the buzz of a bee’s beating wings, remember how import­ ant they arc to our world and how they help • us have food to eat. Dr. Universe Do xou have a question'.’ Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University’s resident scientist and writer at Dr.UniverscQ\vsu rdu or visit her n ebsite, askdriinivcrse.com. HOPE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING AND PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING TO CONSIDER A SPECIAL EXCEPTION USE APPLICATION FOR A MINING OPERATION LOCATED AT 8409 MILLER ROAD. TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF HOPE TOWNSHIP. BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: Notice is hereby given that the I lope Township Planning Commission will hold a meeting and Public Hearing on Thursday, August 20, 2020 at 6:30pm at the Hope Township Hall located at 5463 S. M-43 Hwy Hastings. Michigan 49058 within lhe Township. I I The purpose of the meeting is to receive comments from the public regarding an applica­ tion by R. Smith & Sons Inc for a mining operation (sand and gravel) on parcel (07-030­ 003-00) located at 8409 Miller Road. Delton. Ml 49046. The property is within the AR Agriculture Residential zoning district. Mining operations arc permitted in this district only with Special Exception Use approval by die Planning Commission and as allowed by Section 4.2 (F) of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance. A copy ol the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance and the application is available for review at the Hope Township I lull, 5463 S. M-43 Hwy, I lasting*. Michigan 49058, during regular business hours. The Hope Township Zoning Ordinance is also accessible at www. hopctvvp.com PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Planning Commission intends to hold its meeting in person at the Township Hall, as may be allowed by lhe State of Michigan subject lo applicable Executive Orders. In the case that Executive Orders 2020-110 and 2020-153 are not lifted or otherwise amended, the Planning Commission may hold its nwetine (including public hearing) electronically, in accordance with Executive Order 2020-154. in order lo limit in person government activities, to protect cntic.il infrastructure workers to the extent possible, and to observe applicable Executive Orders, it the meeting is held electronically, information to electronically attend the meeting v. ill be posted on the Township’s web.tie at h|tpsy7wyvw.hopelwjxconY within a ruihonabjc time before the meeting. In addition to participation during an ulcctronicallv held public hearing, mem­ bers of lhe public may also provide written comments for the Planning Commission’s con'odcration by eniuilinp. or mailing those comments io the township ( Jerk for receipt at least one dav prior to the meeting at impctwpch' mcj.riv or at the address below. Wrjik-n comments will also be received from any interested persons by the Hope Township Cleik al the Hof?c Township Hall duting regular business hours and may be farthci received by the Planning Commission during lhe hearing. Oral comments will be taken during the h< jring. Jone fownsfnp will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as .signer* I’m the bearing unpaired and audio tapes of printed material being considered al the hearing, lo individuals with disabilities at the hearing Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or .services should contact the Hope lownship ( krk al least 5 day* prior to the hearing dxtfc for assistance at the telephone number listed below. HOPE I OWN SHIP PLANNING COMMISSION Hope Township iE:’l Hastings. Michigan 49058 (269) 948-2464 very, very lrUMr . s< pni going to file as a "rite-in’ 7love helping out with the district, f'd:,k^. Uud for the distriet. students nn(j s. * c° Board Preside^''.1*' ’ sajd he wasn’t ;-,re I’* « hadn't been planntng |() f ; "^i^on in tiny caw. However. afl ।eamed of all the potential vacancy A ’ " ' ,nced Thursday hisseaL ‘ ’ »bte-in cmididate 23Writ'-"’candid mus,r,lelo ntn by Oct. Functional as a well-designed bee’s wing D'. Universe: What are bees ’ wint^s made of. Natalia. !3. Kennewick. Wash. deadline was in . ,of informa lion she A"gust bcc.iU'1 lion she found t t|,e information was not tor thi J'ne. But e- h| ycara ago. >e«r In l»' " ' 4 "I was s|k.ct| . l(, fltKj the inlorn1aiiollqilkl.|^!ns-KJj|;nilirsjliy.-l-„1 145100 "Mv,. . ■ i iwercl My ”-v reason b-ason to be there (here was my inj kids |w«.re| Green said July 22. "1 don’t have ' **t Hny»iore. My time is done. It’s time lor neonc chc. some other parents, to step up­ . /'OVU)-I9 pandemic had nothing to d « A**'i h,S ’n,t,a* decision, he noted. He had 1 £> et about a year ago not to run again. ri‘S,ec ,nn Uurd- the longest-serving J. ’Member, also opted not to run . K ,er Wns appointed to the board in 2019 iHi |LS ninnin8 to complete the rest of his par­ tial term. Should Kieffer, Montgomery and Green all •|C 1,1 their campaigns and no one n?e i* CS aS a 'vr,’c*m candidate, one vacancy. *r s seat, would remain after the November election. I think people don’t want lo get on the , a/rd..r‘ghl now because of all the COVID •stuff. Green said Thursday. the fact no one else filed to run surprised both Green and Montgomery. We had 11 people run for the board in ■ Q* H - ‘’rIle,u„u,, a“ jot lot of interest, 2014.” ......... M°n,f interest. but b« ,„„„„unih, that community that show- • |( wj|h COVID-19. COVID-J9 ’” people have a 11 ? . for foUr seals on the .Nine candidate *'c u as 201«. board ‘pandemic and lhe unecrThC reopening were major uillty about f.|£ as a wri|e.in factors inGrctn so candidate. d li( a)| this COVJD •Til stay on the tx « someone to slull calms ^X'^Green said. “I’m replace me »" d ‘ thmW their names in honing more pcopuwhen they see the v“‘’a”c j’ns the standard And if a vacancy thaI would SS iZSSSX. Lackscheide and trustee Kimber y be up for re-election in register of DEEDS, continued from page 1 "I have given herkudos that our technology ‘h 'T.'.? d‘!<e’ 'Vin8 sa'<l. “She's made sure the technology Has 1|)cn_ work could be done from home during COV1D.” But all the problems Wing said she was hearing about that office operation prompted her to run. she said. So. she is making a circuit ol meetings, uikinr, her campaign to the city and township governments and asking for their support next week. "The townships aren’t ^appy with her.” Wmg said. “The assessors aren’t happy with her. And some of (he county departments aren’t happy with her. “it is my intention to re-establish or to fix the relationship (hat we have with our townships and our county departments.” Commissioner Ben Geiger, who served as chairman before Wing was chosen to replace him. presented himself "as a citizen” during the June 23 county board meeting and endorsed Wing. Darla Burghdoff, (he register of deeds before Hurless, said this action by Geiger to use his position as an elected official to then express vocal support - as a citizen - for another commissioner in this race “is wrong.” “But Ben Geiger has always had it in for lhe register of deeds.” Burghdoff said. In his remarks, Geiger referred to problems with the office dating back years, saying that he got upsetting emails from county employees alleging “run-ins" with Hurless, adding that those "weren’t his stories to tell” but that office “is in de>p,enuc/nce4^.aLmge.” Hurless said, "Ben’s gotalol of stories that aren’t quite accurate. ... (but] I don’t think Ben understands what goes on in the register of deeds office ." In Burghdoff’s view, if there's a problem, it isn’t with Hurless. Attacks on the register of deeds office date back to the days when the county administration fixed on the idea of dismantling that department, she said And that happened long before Hurless took over. Years ago. the county administration waged a private and misguided campaign to combine the clerk’s office with the register of deeds office, Burghdoff said. Some other counties in Michigan have combined these functions, but it didn’t save money, she said. And it didn’t happen in Barry County which is good, she said. In 2014, in a letter to The Hastings Banner, Burghdoff criticized (he county board and administrator, saying they were "performing a smear campaign against Hurless because the plan to combine the register of deeds and the county clerk positions did not happen." In 2016. trouble erupted again. In the fall of that year, Hurless notified lownship assessors about changes and restrictions in accessing information from her department. But $ome assessors had been happy with the way the system had been handled in the past and didn’t see the need for any change. Four years later, some still speak about Hurless bringing an allorncy W a eoun,J’ board meeting when the jjspUte came to a head. Hurless said she brou-ht attorney Bonnie Toskey to the mcetinK because Toskey was an authoritative soUrcc in Michigan who explained the need for t|,c changes Hurless had made. But Toskey’s was vieWed by some as an intimidation tactic To this day. Hu,)^ ‘ .j her concerns are focused on the Itquirements «f hcr J°b’ defmed by state su?„,e „(,t a poli«cian. she j»aid. 1 When she \Va. ,hC remembered at. n.cw Association of Re^’.dlng f pccds post, she Michigan and that’s where she heard "She spoke rt,nt it was that the register be a l0w n'^’ .ner of >hesc dtKUmems, thal ™ *’nl>' „‘rIliient should be giving out f1Ce t0,her documentsLnder Burgh,te(( had opc"l’d ll?‘i website to townsh so they could search all o( asses>«n> ., ,|U| pull transactions for c/.c docunic • Hurless said. rc*hufthetown*’ Buighdoft VOl)fi .aL’eh‘lditselup so tax assessor _ th‘s- . . information foi their townslun ld nccc":’1 h print it out. I did not charge r lhe>’ u The i we found they werekh ’ ^ iorthat I,,U • Hu,Ivss s:,'»d Ik‘gil ” । die assessors sign un agn-e,,, b'hdoff »'d ,d „ot give tin, mtormaiioi, " "uu the) * ttil5 just for to others- their internal use.’’ But some assessors didn’t abide by the agreement, Hurless said. “When I found out this was happening, 1 called them all and there was this really big uproar. ... BonnieToskey gave litem the statutes. The register of deeds didn t have to give them these copies. They abused their rights. She spoke in detail on it.” Burghdoff said. “1 think tax assessors had been spoiled. It had been handed to them on a silver platter. They ruined it for themselves.’’ Problems also cropped up with other county departments, Hurless said. “The (county] mapping department, the equalization department should not keep a tract index. That is solely for the register of deeds office. “ Hurless said she explained lo the department heads why they couldn’t take this information from her department. She said she doesn’t believe anyone meant wrong, but she felt that her charge under state statute is clear. “It was under my authority,” she said. When Hurless was elected in 2012. county officials underestimated her. Burghdoff said, praising Hurless for her honesty and integrity. "She doesn’t intimidate easily.” Hurless “takes her job very seriously.” she noted, and the security of those real estate records is paramount. If voters choose her. Wing said, she will allow county departments to have "their access to their documents back. It’s county information and equalization is a county department.... Why should they have to pay for it when it’s a county document?” "If (he government owns the document, it should be accessible to all county departments," Wing said. This has been a contentious issue dating back years. Burghdoff and Hurless said some county employees, who had no authority, were giving out copies of register of deeds documents - and some employees were even Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 o< the revised judicature act of 1961,1951 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will bo foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on August 13, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE: Mortgagor(s): Dale D. Bursley. a married man and Kay K. Bursley, his wife Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (“MERS"), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns Date of mortgage: August 21,2006 Recorded on August 29,2006, in Document No. 1169291, Foreclosing Assignee (if any): NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing Amount claimed to be due at the date hereof: Seventy-One Thousand Three Hundred Thirteen and 12/100 Dollars ($71,313.12) Mortgaged premises: Situated in Barry County, and described as. Lot 11 and the West 3 feet of Lot 10, Block 2 of the Plat of the Village of Woodland, according to the recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Uber 1 of Plats on Page 21. Commonly known as 153 Thatcher St, Woodland, Ml 48897 The redemption period will bo 6 months from the date of such sale, unless abandoned under MCL 600.3241a. in which case the redemption period will be 30 days from the date of such sale, or 15 days from the MCL 600.324 la(b) notice, whichever is later; or unless extinguished pursuant to MCL 600 3238. If tho above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of Act 236 of 1961, under MCL 600.3278, the bonower will be held responsi ble to lhe person who buys the property at lhe mortgage foreclosure safe or to lhe mortgage holder for damaging the property dunng the redemption period Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, it your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, pioase contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. NewRoz LLC dto/a Shet'point Mortgage Servicing Mortgagea/Assign<»e Schneiderman & Sherman PC. 23938 Research Dr. Suite 300 Farmington Hills, Ml 48335 248.539.7400 1418125 144321 (07-16X08 06) giving out legal advice. Hurless said she put a stop to it. r „ In recent years, the departure of some disgruntled employees has spurred more criticism of the register of deeds - and hardship, particularly for Hurless, w io i required to do some of those duties. Right now, the county is without an abstractor, and a replacement is not being actively sought, she said. Hurless said she had planned to post that opening, but County Administrator Michael Brown declined to do so because of the COVID-19 pandemic. In her campaign talks around the county. Wing has been assuring listeners that she II fill that abstractor’s vacancy soon. The county administrator, who had no comment for this article, is responsible for the staffing of county departments. And Brown works for the county commissioners, who control the pursestrings. But Hurless, as an elected official, is accountable to the voters, not the county board. Burghdoff was skeptical that the other two register of deeds candidates on the ballot Wing and Democrat Jordan Brehm - would have the skills and experience to handle the 1 work Hurless is doing now. The manual for the job is 2'Z inches thick, she said. “And. oh. heavens, things were constantly changing.” It would take a newcomer with little to no experience at least a year - maybe two - to learn how to do that job, she estimated. Cohtity ‘ w fie?'<L1' 'H&rf Jdlitspoken • against Hurless say that her experience • shouldn’t be a consideration. They say the office is poorly run and it’s time for a new ’ register. ' It’s up to Barry County voters to choose. ’ They’ll do that Tuesday. Synopsis Hope Township Regular Board meeting July 13. 2020 Meeting opened at 6:30pm Approved: Consent agenda Resolution 2020-10 Absentee counting board Resolution 2020-11 Foreclosed properties Election Inspector pay Adjourned at 6:48 pm Submitted by: Deborah Jackson, Clerk Attested lo by Mark S. Feldpausch, Supervisor 145006 Synopsis Hastings Charter Township Regular Mooting July 14, 2020 Meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. Al! board members present Approved all consent agenda items Meadow Lane Dram presentation Approved payment of bills. Dept, reports received and put on file Motion to adjourn 7:50 p.m. ’ Respectfully submitted, Anita S. Mennell - Clerk Attested to by Jim Brown - Supervisor 144634 STATE OF MICHIGAN probate court COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS DecodonVs Estate FILE NO. 2020-28560-DE Estate of Dom'd Alan K.-un n,., TO ALL CREDITORS: ' b fth: 09/16/19«2. Karn, died 0W?6/^2a°RS’ decedent- Dcnald AJan against the estate ““ C,airns to Lmdsay S. Horton, personal the probate court at 206 vS Un,<*S pfGsont^ 10 60111 Hasting*., Ml 49058 and (^ S &et> ^4® 302. Within 4 months after tho’d v? ? rRPf6sentative notice. th° dalt1 of Publication of th-s Date: 07/16/2020 ^XsC^L^P80138 Williamston. Ml 48895 517-655-6380 Lindsay S. Horton 7736 Heritage Dnve Lanstng. Mi 4B017 269 945 7964 6 144638 �The Hastings Gannet — Thursday, July 30. 2020 — Pag* g • /■ I fl look back at the stories and columns on local history In the Hastings Banner {TURNING h I BACK THE L PAGES <B First television, store air conditioning introduced to county Summertime in.1940^ conclusion The following is a reprint from columns compiled by the late Esther Walton and published in the Banner June 28 and Sept. 27, 1990. She wrote them as a 50-year retrospect of local happenings - making that news now 80 years old. This is continued from last week. The federal government was getting concerned with the war in Europe in the summer of 1940. A bill was introduced into Congress “for compulsory military training.” Congress discussed it, but didn’t adopt the bill, lhe Aug. 1 Banner reported. “It’s been a hot July” another article reported, giving the high temperatures of the previous month. “Three windstorms crossed the state, but little damage was done locally.” W.K. Kellogg announced that lhe schools and libraries in Barry County would be getting 21,798 new books. Hugh McLaughlin, a Civil War veteran, turned 100 years old, and due note was made by the Banner. (McLaughlin was featured in John C. Ketcham, former teacher, this column May 9,2019) postmaster, school commissioner, Grange Mrs. Zenus Colvin had a Barry County master and Congressman, said in the Fair book from 1897, and she look it to the summer of 1940, the U.S. had three Banner office, where it was displayed for a choices regarding the war in Europe. few days. Ketcham, 68, died three days before the The bathhouse was completed at Murphy’s attack on Pearl Harbor. Point, Yankee Springs Recreation Aiya. Gun Lake. This was a federal project tuned over to the State of Michigan. (The park had been the Hastings Windstorm Company, now established by the federal government in known as Hastings Mutual Insurance 1938, and the Civilian Conservation Corps Company. Felpausch Food Center announced it had began construction of recreational facilities in installed air conditioning, the first grocery 1939. ] The Aug. 8 1940. Banner announced that store in Barry County to do so. Record crowds were attending the fair. the annual Wesleyan Conference was at the A non-partisan ballot was being discussed campgrounds on Campground Road in Hastings Township. The article carried a for city elections. John Ketcham, native of Hastings and lhe photograph of the 1939 camp meeting. (Esther Walton made a note that lhe county’s former representative in congress, property for the camp had been given to the gave a speech telling lhe audience that the church by Eben and Elvira Pennock, lhe same U.S. had three choices related to entering the couple who donated a substantial amount of war in Europe. [Ketcham died Dec. 4. 1941. money in the early 1920s to the fledgling three days before the attack on Pearl Harbor.] lhe Aug. 22, 1940. Banner gave the hospital that would later bear their name.] Dr. Stewart Prichard of the W.K. Kellogg preliminary census figures. The county had Foundation died. He had been a Barry County 22548 residents, and lhe city of Hastings numbered 5,127. resident. The 57th conference ended with the Hope Township announced it would be centennial session of the Wesleyan Methodist celebrating its centennial Aug. 17. Church. ’ More war relief supplies were sent to Among the good news for the summer England. was that only four cases of polio had been Philip Mitchell announced his candidacy reported so far in lhe county. for prosecuting attorney. Old trees were removed from the The fair was in progress, and a good deal courthouse lawn. of the news dealt with its activities. One of lhe The W.K. Kellogg Foundation announced highlights of the fair was the display of the its new leader. Dr. D. Morris. first television set in Barry County. One Aug. 22 article told why Hastings had The school census showed a decrease in superior schools - good news for lhe parents, students, and lhe Army recruiting team was since another article told of school starting in visiting Hastings. the city Sept. 3. The Aug. 15 Banner noted that the post The county 4-H planned exhibits for the office revenue increased again. The gains stale fair, and six Barry County 4-Hers took were due partly to large mailings sent out by SR MEETING NOTICE We have scheduled townhall meetings to go over the return to school plan. The meetings will be held virtually jxl§mentary„Pare.nts■ _Aug,_4tt!^6jOIl Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/jZ82225264113?pwd=eGNjUIBNVkx 5bOlvY2IMOU 1 hQk82ZzO9 Unk;mpS://U=o2»j^^ Link. https.//usu/.W vV2QrazFpdGo3VUYwdzO9 Hquestions "V*”**”'*? to dan.remenap@nassKid.org , uannm^'' urT1 and^nl? for a museum at Charlton Park to house collections donated by local residents. Irving Charlton designed the mus instruction began in 1941. (Leo Barth photo) placed in state con p(inner The Aug. w*s again championing an anide entitled. "Should have a place at Charlton Park to store relics. Barr)’ County ,01 let off CilsiI). regarding polio cases- . . ?’orc cases were reported in the paper- bringing the county’s summer total to six. . Maple Grove Township announced a pioneer meeting. The Sept. 5. 1940, Banner reported that the rural teachers had met and received instructions and supplies for (|lc year. A companion article said l ic teachers had begun work. The county had 67 operating one-room schools and one two-room school at the time - three fewer than the year before. The three rural schools closed at the end of the previous school year were Castleton Center (students sent to Nashville); Robbins (later the site of Joe’s Grocery] (annexed to Wayland); and the Falk School (with students going to Delton. A big enrollment was announced lor Hastings City schools. 'l he number of jx?lio victims was up to 16. Western Michigan theater owners attended a trade show' al the Strand Theater in Hastings. The group previewed three new Paramount films. Miss Eva Hecox was honored for her work She had been in charge of the office of the Hastings Building and Loan (in 1990 known as I tastings Savings and Loan]. (Hecox was a daughter of Ella Eggleston, the first female in the state to serve as a probate judge. Several Turning Back the Pages columns were devoted to Eggleston earlier this year.] impressive memorial services were conducted in Maple Grove? honoring lhe late Justice W.W. Potter. Hope Centennial history, written by John Ketcham, recalled pioneer history. The full text was published in the paper Sept. 12. Archie McDonald edged oul Philip Mitchell in the primary for prosecuting attorney. The county board of supervisors prohibited all public gatherings on the courthouse lawn. Traditionally, the courthouse lawn had been the favorite meeting place for all kinds of groups. Particularly, political and national holiday celebrations and parades ended there with speeches and rallies. One advantage was the courthouse could be opened up and the event moved to the courtroom if inclement weather occurred. The Banner was not going lo let lhe matter of a museum building drop. An article titled “Urgent Need of a County Museum” described all the collections people had that could not be preserved because there was no place for them. Among the items mentioned were Indian and pioneer artifacts. The book fair was postponed because of lhe closing of the city s school, due to the infantile paralysis scare. Hugh Allen was elected the new YMCA secretary. The job is now called director. Allen replaced ailing “Dad” Angell, who had served since 1921. The Sept. 19 i*suc 8avc the official primary' election figures. Two more new cases of polio were reported, and an immense salt deposit was found in Rutland Township and it was thought oil could be beneath that. This interesting hit was found under Middleville news: “The members of the Rotary Club had a little impromptu program staged at their meeting last Tuesday noon that moved along in regular movie style and had plenty of excitement and thrills combined. The men were peacefully gathered >n the dining room at the Middleville hotel when Sheldon McArthur’s bar room employee burst in and announced an attempted hold-up had been in progress below.” , The Banner carried a detailed account of the incident . f| . . “Two hold-up »ien ’ “ lhcir car with engine running on Ma,n ‘ ln front of lhe Kroger store. As the uk ,erged from the hotel, one man was a ♦ > nving out ot town. Russell Beeler100 .... c,lr and started in pursuit, as did Gk‘nn ‘ Miller passed the car west of town a • red (he license number. Beeler oA.ut. n Barry/ Allegan County line to ersection where the Wayland road turn* * <nd finding gas low, stoped, but “The driver o'< '^'d-Up w was captured later and bo t . ‘ k, Ihe hotel by the Stale Pol»vt’ .1CCOfn ‘9cal‘on. and quite a delegation ‘ 1 ^‘ed him to Hastings. His comp‘u’u. . ‘‘Plured by the city police in BaltK’ ’ that vicinity Thursday night, and so both men have been in the county jail thinking things over and wondering if crime pays.” The much-anticipated book fair was announced on lhe front page of the Sept. 26 Banner. The Women’s Christian Temperance Union held its annual meeting. War relief work in England was reported by the Red Cross. Thirty-six railroad and transportation officials were in Hastings visiting lhe International Seal and Lock Co. This was an annual event sponsored by the company. Since 1940 was a presidential election year, a Wilkie for President Club was formed in Barry County. Wendell Willkie was the Republican Party candidate. Petitions were circulated to ask the Barry County board of supervisors io provide a county museum. The Banner headline was “Sign Petition when presented.” This ends the news for the summer months. Progress on the stone building that became the Irving D. Charlton Memorial Museum was halted because of World War II. Construction began in 1941, but the museum wasn’t finished until 1950. (File photo) PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE NOTICE OF INTENT (POSSIBLE) TO USE A VIRTUAL PLATFORM FOR PUBLIC HEARING TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF PRAIRIEVILLE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will be held on August 13,2020 com­ mencing at 7:00 p.m. at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Rd., Delton Ml, 49046 within the Township, as required under the provisions of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act and the Zoning Ordinance for the Township. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Executive Orders 2020-131 and 2020-154 (unless otherwise lifted), the Township Planning Commission will hold its meeting (in­ cluding public hearing) electronically, in order to limit in person government activities, to protect critical infrastructure workers to the extent possible. If the meeting is held elec­ tronically, information to electronically attend the meeting will be posted on the Town­ ship’s website at http://www.prairievilletwp-mi.org. In addition to participation during an electronically held public hearing, members of the public may also provide comments for the Planning Commission's consideration by emailing or mailing those comments to the Planning Commission for receipt prior to the meeting, in care of the Township Zoning Administrator, Eric Thompson (ethomDSon@ocimi.com) or by leaving a phone message prior to the meeting with the Township Zoning Administrator, Eric Thompson at 269-948­ 4088. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at said public hearing include, in brief, the following: 1 ’ A request from Linda Kepner, property owner, 14811 Lockshore Rd.. Hickory Corners, Ml 49323, for a Special Land Use/Site Plan Review to allow for the operation of a kennel pursuant to section 6.6 Agricultural District” C. Special Land Uses #12. The subject site is located at 14811 Lockshore Rd., Parcel # 08-12-026-007-41 and is currently zoned A -Agricultural. 2. A request from Jeremy Ball, property owner, 12444 M-89 Hwy. Plainwell, Ml 49080 for Special land Use/Site Plan Review to allow for the construction of a detached accessory structure failing to meet the locat.ona requirements pursuant to section 4.20 "Accessory Structures . The subject site is located 12444 M-89 Hwy., Parcel # 08-12 031-019-30 and ,s currently roned Rl-Resi- dential 3. Such other business as may properly come before the Plan­ ning Commission. 4. The Prairieville Township Planning Commission and Township Board reserve the right to make changes in the above-mentioned proposed amendments) at or followrng the public hearing. a , in ^viewing the All interested persons are invited to be presAnyone ’nterest electronic meeting is held, to participate via ent at the aforesaid time and place, or, the electronic meeting. - ... -r kin will Dtovide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and ser­ Pr?lr'2VI G TOthndkabilitief at the hearing upon four (4) days’ prior notice to the vices, to individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should Township Clerk. Individua address or telephone number listed below, contact tbe Township Clerk ar 1to^NSHIP pLANN|NG COMMISSION PRAIRIEV Myron Kox, Chairperson Prairieville Township Hall 11015 S. Norris Rd. Delton, Michigan 49046 (269) 623-2664 II5191 �Page 10 — Thursday, July 30, 2020 — The Hastings Banner GUILTY, continued from page 1 neck and applied pressure to stop his bleed­ ing, and called 911. A Spectrum Health Butterworth surgeon testified that, if Collins had nol been brought to him almost immediately, he would have died. A broken tip of n steel blade was removed from Collins’ arm by doctors. The jury deliberated for around eight hours Friday before coming back with the verdict around 7:30 p.m. Krcbs also was found guilty of a second charge of resisting arrest. One juror, who spoke to the The Hastings Banner but asked that his name nol Ik used, said lhe jurv quickly arrived at a consensus dial there had, at least, been an assault with intent lo commit great bodily harm. They spent most of their deliberations discussing whether there was an intent to commit inur“Tbere were several jurors that struggled with thc intent to murder portion of the charge." he said. “At the end. it really came down to personal belief of some of the jurors. They just didn’t know if some of the evi­ dence, beyond reasonable doubt, pointed to intent to murder. And we spent a great deal o time in discussion of that.’ In her opening and closing arguments. Senior Assistant Prosecutor Jessica Payne said Krebs tarccted Collins vital organs. She pointed to his slit throat and punctured lung. Some of the jurors found lhe injuries as convincing evidence of an intent to commit murder. “The jurors that w ere of that mindset strug­ gled to see how you could see anything else," he said. But two or three jurors were unable lo con­ clude that there had been an intern to murder. The possibility of coming back as a hung jury was even discussed at one point. “As thc deliberations went on. wc were lo the point where there was a conversation." the juror said. “There were some opinions that didn’t know if they could live with one way or another." According to Judge Vicky Alspaugh’s instructions, if the jury was unable to come to a consensus on die greater charge of intent to commit murder, they were lo move onto the lesser charge, intent to commit great bodily harm. While it was difficult process, the jury worked through it, he said. “Ultimately, it was a unanimous decision. That’s what a juror docs." In their closing arguments, the attorneys spent less lime on lhe difference between intent to commit murder or bodily harm than they did self-defense. "The rule is that you must judge David’s conduct according to how lhe circumstances appeared lo David at the time (hat he acted," Kinney said. Krcbs testified that he was the one who was attacked by Collins. If Krebs believed his life to be in danger, he was able to use as much force as he thought was necessary lo defend himself, defense attorney James Kinney said. • 1 ••if someone's coming at you with a knife in thc confined MMce of a moving vehicle, then reasonable to believe that (hey are going io*kill or seriously injure you,” the defense attorney said. . He even broke with his own client s testi­ mony at one point. “David Krebs testified that he did not cut Anthony.” Kinney said. “Common sense, uhich is something you’re supposed to use in your deliberations, dictates that David did cut Anthony.” While Kinney said “voluntary intoxication is not a defense.” he argued it could explain what Krebs* thoughts were at lhe time, and whether be could have believed his life was in danger. Krebs testified that he had used marijuana, meth and acid on the day of the attack. During deliberations, the jury sent a ques­ tion to the judge, asking if Krebs’ level of intoxication could be considered a defense. Thc judge said it could not. Payne pointed to witness testimony • from thc other two people who were in thc car at thc time: Dalton King and Sara Smith, both of whom testified that Collins did not attack Krebs. She singled out Smith, who said she had never met Collins before she got into the car, and was the only person not high on meth at the time. “She told you that she did not sec anything, not one single thing that night that Anthony Collins did to Mr. Krebs." Payne said. Kinney said it was too dark inside the car for Smith to have seen clearly, and she was busy petting her dog. Even if Collins did attack Krcbs, Payne asked the jury’ if it would have been a reason­ able defense for Krebs to slit his throat and stab him multiple times, including in the back. She added that Krebs did not stay on the scene, or tell the police he svas attacked. Instead, he am away. The only injury Krebs sustained in thc attack was a “nick" on his arm. according to his testimony. ,, “Did anything that he said make sense that he had to act the way that he acted?" Payne asked lhe jury of Krebs’ testimony. “That any­ thing was immediately necessary?" "He must have honestly and reasonably believed that what he did was immediately necessary, and he must only use as much force as necessary " she said. Krebs’ criminal record was not explained to the jury. According to court records, he pleaded guilty to operating and maintaining a meth lab in 2013. Another charge in that case, contrib­ uting to child delinquency, was dismissed. He also pleaded no contest to malicious destruc­ tion of properly in 2012. Sentcfichi£ 'hJL p*' scheduled for Sept. 9. On Tuesday, Kinney declined to discuss the case, remarking, “Court-appointed attorneys do a good job." The Banner could not reach Payne or Prosecutor Julie Nakfoor Pratt for comment. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... Hiimiuw The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Services MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, norne improvements, power washing. 269-320-3890. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. GET EASY CASH with extra household goods and tools! Call (269) 945-9554 to sell your unwanted stuff with a classified ad in this paper. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: Al! «ai e«Mc xhertwnr m thl* •» u> ths I ftara&f Ac: and ifte Midupn Gvil Rrghu Au which cdlactndy cuke K u “arty ptefaeM, Innitation (Ktcnnniaatioa Uncd oa lace, cxrf.x. rcliVrX). >cx, hxnd*c«p. /wujml itetux, MtK.-'o! <x»£>n. "< rtatua. 14 M ir-untinn, nuic at.y »uch |Md«roce JiTi.uUun <4 dUt nmicaO. f ” Ht.iIuJ Indu-ki thrMetn unJef the w IX < ••I'h parent’ <» lepd cintodMtn. pret'M**: w vnn x;J prvpe wfurifig Castixly <rf chtW/eri unOcr JF 1hi» newspaper will U>n»infly MxrpC any ad»eHji.iig for real tvtxit v»hkli *» ifl vmUUofi <rf lhe la* Ou/ reader* aie hereby mfornxJ that nil dwetitap xbrcttcJ in lh»i pe*»paper Kt ataiisbic ou tn equ*l uj-jX^unuy b<M>. To report docruwiuiM'n ca'I thc Fair Hoc»>*d Ccnkr M AI6-45l-29<0 the HUD mil free irlcphu* number lor the Ixar.njt trupaitnl b l-Mfo-921 -yr?} Card of Thanks Help Wanted THE FAMILY OF JAMES HUMPHREY would like to extend our appreciation for all lhe kindness and won­ derful cards we received on Jim's passing. Our sincere thanks to the Woodlawn Meadows Staff and Admin­ istrators who provided the safe and beautiful home for him as his care warranted, the Elara Caring I lospice Team, and the WilliamsGores Funeral Home. Special Thank you to Sister Constance for leading the Holy Rosary and Rev. Rob Johansen for the Mass of Re­ membrance. The Farewell Military' ceremony provided by the American Legion of Hastings and the Dept. of Army will be forever cherished. God Bless you all and Thank You sincerely! Karoleen & Thomas Wood, Stephen J. Humphrey, Jeanne & Skip Burger, Mary* & Bill Humphrey, ✓Vine M. Humphrey HELP WANTED- Financial ’ Service Specialist/Teller. Im­ mediate full time opening । in a credit union for a dy­ namic individual to assist members with their finan­ cial needs. Responsibilities include providing excellent customer service through teller transaction processing, verifying and cashing checks, cross selling of credit union products and services. This position requires strong inter­ personal skills, being a team player and utter enthusiasm to quickly learn additional tasks that may be assigned. Additional skills include exceptional oral and written communication, computer and problem solving skills. Competitive salary, bene­ fits and incentive programs are available. Regular work days are Monday-Friday. Application forms may be obtained at Preferred Credit Union, 329 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings, Ml 49058 or send resume electronically to HR«? prvfijJvdDAorg- EEO, I or Sale KASSON 10FT OAK Pool Table, excellent condition. $1,000.00 or OBO. 269-908­ 1654__________________ _ CARRON SPORT AIR Hockey Table. $300.00 OBO. Phone 269-908-1654. laim 18 MONTH OLD Angus Bull. $2,800. Canfield Angus Farm. 616-340-8072. GENERAL LABORER- JOB includes lifting and stacking lumber. Candidates must submit to and pass a pre-employment drug test. Benefits, 401K and Vacation. Apply in person al 396 Main St., Sun­ field, Ml 48890.___________ QUALITY ALUMINUM PRODUCTS is hiring! Pay starts at $13/hr. We have 1st and 2nd shift openings! Call 2n9-945-0376 lo apply or stop by and fill out an application at 429 S. Michigan Ave., Hast­ ings, MI 49508. COVlO-19 precautions distracting, but process ensured fairness, juror says While new « social distancing guidelines in David Krebs 11 could be frustrating fair, one juror said. n’c i M toHsings Banner rhis 'xperie^d^eek.on the conditionofanonymit . P«haps th(! bf change for jurors was where (hey Wcn.^es Instead of sitti ,hc jwy box, the jurors were spread ()ut inElhc ub|ic galley II meant «>me of them were sitting in the far back of tb’- lnrgc historic circuit courtroom. r,te court stafT spared a workaround hr to a 7 W ,0 6ive JUWr V” J; ? into a Zoom conference call of the trial. The idea was for lhe : jn lhe back of the court­ room to listen Via Zoom to audio picked up by microphones jn fronl of the witnesses, attor­ neys and Circuit Judge Vicky Alspaugh, who presjdcd over thecal. ,, The problem with that is there s a delay in a^omcall,"thejurorsai(1. So jurors heard what was happening m the courtroom, thCn heanJ it repcatcd on their headphones - aboUl two seconds later. “You’re hearing both, so you’re hearing an echo." “Within minutes of that, all the jurors said. ‘This isn’t working.’” They took their earphones off, and listened to the proceedings from speakers set up on the courtroom walls. “From where I was positioned, I could see and hear pretty well," the juror said. “It wasn’t necessarily an issue for me. I think it was an issue for some of lhe other jurors. It s such an echocy room." While the juror said he was able to hear some people, like Krcbs, quite easily, defense attorney James Kinney’s soft-spoken voice w’as more difficult to pick up. “I don’t know if that’s an issue with social distancing or thc sound system of the courtr^0,ni" he said. “It makes it a little bit more difficult because some people arc wearing masks.” Everyone in the courtroom wore masks, except witnesses when they were testifying, or attorneys when they spoke at length. pie juror said not being able to see peo­ ple s mouths made it more of a challenge to make out what they were saying. Sometimes the jurors called out to the judge, or directly to Kinney, when they had trouble hearing, which thc juror said they had no trouble doing. “I don’t think there was anything that I or any of the jurors didn’t hear that wc didn’t ask that we have repeated," thc juror said. "Everyone on the jury was very good about saying, ‘Sorry, I didn’t hear that.’ “I would say it was distracting at times; it was a little frustrating.” The tablets worked better for watching video of the interviews, or looking at pictures from the crime scene, but the tablets had bat­ tery issues. The first full day of the trial, the tablets started dying before testimony was over. In subsequent days, the tablets were charged during lunchtime, lhe juror said. “There were lots of little technical glitches with cither not being able to hear, or not being able lo move some of the witnesses - or even the defendant — in and out of lhe courtroom.” When court was in recess, thc jurors were sequestered in a room two floors above the court. Some jurors did not want to use the stairs each time they moved, and asked to use the elevator. When they did, deputies had to walk each floor first to ensure lhe jurors wouldn’t run into anyone else involved in the case. Jury deliberations were held in the court- room, since it had more room for social dis- WAt"one point, the jury asked whether Krebs’ intoxication could be considered as a defense. The jury notified a Barry County shenff s deputy. Who led the jury from the courtroom to the room two floors up. The defendant and court officials entered the courtroom, and the jury was brought back down. Ute judge old them in a single sentence that it could not be used and sent the jury back “l»'a,r staff left, and the jury was finally brought back to thc courtroom to continue delibcra- This happened more than once, the juror recalled. ... . Despite the frustrations, the juror did not think these changes had a significant impact on the case. ... “I feel like it was a fair trial; the only thing that it really did was it added time, he said. But the jurors knew these measures had been taken to protect them from any possible spread of COVID-19 and, from that perspec­ tive, thc precautions succeeded in allaying any concerns. Jurors felt safe, he said. “There were certainly varying degrees of opinions about COVID." he said of the jury’. “But everybody was respectful of every­ body’s opinions and feelings on it." • Middleville planners eye; marijuana ordinance : Greg Chandler ‘ Staff Writer * Middleville planning commissioners havd begun work on an ordinance that could lead tq lhe village allowing recreational marijua-’ na-based businesses in the near future. ;• A three-member ordinance committee Monday began work on a draft ordinance it? plans to present later this year to thc full plan> ning commission and eventually thc village council. “This is just lhe beginning of what is going} to be quite lhe journey." Planning and Zoning Administrator Brian Urquhart said. * Michigan voters in November 201& approved Proposal 1, which legalized mari-j Can I refuse to give my Social Security No. We count only the wages you earn juana for recreational use. Sixty percent of number to a private business? from a job or your net profit if you’re self­ Middleville’s voters approved the measure -» Yes, you can refuse lo disclose your Social employed. Non-work income, such as 793 yes votes to 528 no votes. Security number, and you should be careful pensions, annuities, investment income, The village council in April 2019 voted about giving out your number. But, be aware, interest, capital gains and oilier government unanimously to prohibit marijuana-based} lhe person requesting your number can refuse benefits are not counted and will not affect establishments in Middleville, but also left the? services if you don’t give it. Businesses, your Social Security benefits. For more door open for lhe village lo take a second look! banks, schools, private agencies, etc., are free information, visit Social security.gov or call once state regulations were finalized. In to request someone’s number and use it for 8OOr77grA? I34TTY ... Januao'>^thc;|CopwjLA»JW^kiMip, planning any purpose that doesn’t violate a federal or commission to do a further study, looking state law. To learn more about your Social Will my Social Security' disability benefit other communities that have allowed marijua­ Security number, visit Social security.gov/ increase if my condition gets worse or I na-based businesses and their ordinances and develop additional health problems? ssnumber. see whether those measures could be imple­ No. Wc do not base your Social Security mented in Middleville. How can 1 get a copy ofmy Social Security' benefit amount on the severity of a disability. Saugatuck Township is being used as the The amount you arc paid is based on your model community for the proposed ordi­ Statement? You can get your personal Social Security average lifetime earnings before your nance, but Commissioner Tom DeVries pulled Statement online by using your personal My disability began. If you go back to work after together ordinance language from several Social Security account, if you don’t yet have getting disability benefits, you may be able to other communities, including Lowell. Evart an account, you can easily create one. Your get a higher benefit based on those earnings. and Batde Creek, as a starting point for the online statement gives you secure and In addition, we have incentives that allow you committee. Joined by fellow commissioners convenient access lo your earnings records. It to work temporarily without losing your Amanda Pullen and Maria Gustinis. the com­ also shows estimates for retirement, disability disability benefits. For more information mittee pored over a 38-page document during and survivors benefits you and your family about disability benefits, read our publications Monday’s discussion. "Disability Benefits" and "Working While Applicants would be required to get approv­ may be eligible for. Disabled — How We Can Help." Both are al from lhe village for a special land use and / know that Social Security’sfull retirement available online at Social security.gov/pubs. go through a site-plan review before the plan­ age is gradually rising to 67. But does this ning commission. No one under age 21 would What are the requirements for receiving be allowed entrance into a marijuana facility, mean the "early" retirement age also will go disabled widow's benefits? up by two years, from age 62 to 64? according to the draft language document. You may be able to get disabled widow/ No. While it is true that under current law Part of the discussion involved determining lhe full retirement age is gradually rising from widower’s benefits at age 50 if you meet where marijuana establishments would be 65 to 67, the "early” retirement age remains at Social Security’s disability requirement. Your allowed. Under thc draft that is being 62. Keep in mind, however, that taking early disability must have started before age 60 and reviewed, no such establishments would be retirement reduces your benefit amount. For within seven years of lhe latest of the allowed downtown or in residential areas. In more information about Social Security following dates: the month the worker died; addition, establishments would nol be allowed benefits, visit Social security.gov/planners/ the last month you were entitled to survivors within 1,000 feel of a school, church or day benefits on the worker’s record as a parent care center, according to the draft language retire. caring for a surviving minor child; or the document. Can I delay my retirement benefits and month your previous entitlement to disabled Commissioners are considering allowing receive benefits as a spouse only? How does widow/widower’s benefits ended because establishments in areas zoned for highway your disability ended. To learn more, visit commercial, largely along M-37. or in Indus­ that work? securily.gov/planners/disability/ trial-zoned areas, mostly on the northeast side Il depends on your date of birth. If you Social were bom on or before Jan. 1.1954. and your dqualify9.html. of lhe village, according to the draft language document. spouse is receiving Social Security benefits, When a person who has worked and paid One part of Monday’s discussion involved you may appiy for re,iltInent benefits on your spouse's record, as long as you are at your full Social Security taxes dies, are benefits payable whether the village should allow for slacked retirement age. You then will earn delayed on that person’s record? licenses - giving an individual the ability to Social Security survivor benefits can be hold multiple licenses, such as one for grow­ retirement credits ut> to age 70, as long as you do not collect benefits on your own work paid to: ing, another to sell marijuana for retail use, • A widow or widower - unreduced and another for testing. record. Ute, w. u d0 begin receiving “What do we want? Are we willing to have benefits on your own record, those payments benefits at full retirement age, or reduced could very Wel| hi her than they would benefits as early as age 60. a full-stream grower, processor, transporter on • A disabled widow or widower, as early the recreattonal stde as a stacked license in the have been ff your spouse also ts as age 50. village, to make it a successful business or fijll retirement age and does not receive • A widow or widower at any age if he or are we going to make sun.- its not stacked and benefits, yout b wjI) have to apply for benefits and LueSl the payments be she takes care of thc deceased’s child who is separate it out? Urquhart asked. suspended. Then 9 receive benefits on under age 16 or disabled, and receiving Social DeVries said in his review of the various yourspiia^S "uri'y record. If you ordmances he’s seen, there appears to^e Security benefits. were bom On ()r^ j.^. 2.1954. and wish • Unmarried children under 18 or up to requuements to separate variou ^gments of to receive ben 4-. ,Aii must file for a11 age 19 if they arc attending high school full­ :inTbX^'bU,,hC>^ benefits for *hc.Il,s’ aIt eligible. Social time. Under certain circumstances, benefits •Security win . the benefits for which can be paid to stepchildren, grandchildren, or different">e you are eligifc'^lu accordingly. For adopted children. individuals8^ a d P fter Jan-2.1954.there • Children al any age who were disabled all on the snmc n ni«ght have them is no longer J? on.or“^ Leet which bencr“ before age 22 and remain disabled. a ntX^g*'»‘"ink it's just you would liv}?p"on L even beyond your • Dependent parents age 62 or older. U'C full retire,.10 are an exception, Even if you arc divorced, you still may other, from whaU've XThM°',C allow it to be.” ’ *ha's no' "ow since they w,d" ke their deceased qualify for survivor’s benefits. spouse's '■hoosc 1 r,.inR for their own. For more information, go to Social The proposed ordinance „ u. For more inr 11 without cycjal security, security.gov. sent to the village attorney tor ** gov. Inf«nnation. *'il1 5 committee is expected to rYv,ew- iu'd tbs' Vonda Van Til is the public affairs language against next month’bX,d™” specialist for West Michigan . You may write ...g the proposal to the toll p|a^. ’ C present’ I income I have is a her do Social Security Administration, 3045 stun in September. A pubhc b ? monthly (ln Individual BvriremefltA ^Htwal fr°. withdrawals Knapp NE, Grand Rapids Ml 49525 or via likely take place in ^t^^ ^nu"l An„f0Uld thev reduce email to vonda.VanTil@ssa.gov. lion to the village council • ‘\prcSt‘nUv Urquhart said. 1 ,n November, SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Specialist answers disability, benefit and earnings questions �I ...P ey creates positive 2020 niethory with top Symetra finish The Hastings Banner — Thursday, July 30, 2020 — Page 11 Gabrielle ShipW^igh t|,c wc^cr18 holes and shol *sy(iie<r# Tourfinish..^ ° score her big** peepers last weekend * tljc C reek Count ° Championship J^.way •>* fOr fiXS Ub’ Shipley sat m 3^ 66 Friday with an ©P^Vif^rday10 8° into that up with a 69» d place behind nni final round in ’Ruixift Liu. Ship|cv y lh® eventual champ‘d . finnj roUndJ * *orcd a 72 during Sunday * Hntsh at nine under for 1 n a llc for fourth place. individual state . Gabrielle, “"'"“school who\±np,on from Hastings I HDivision H °n. win the 2016 NCM whi|e'' "dtvtdual National Chantpt njvcrsity olax'i'1!!8 ^or Grand Valley ‘he firS‘ two rounds of the hcr er sister Sarah Sh1prZuq._ . ’ ,a Delton Kellogg High Sch.“’University‘ofv1 p,ayin8 collegiately for Kentucky. Tlie two were granted sponsor s exemptions into the toumamenjGabrielle played her ,< *8 holes in lhe final group, with Liu who c osed the tourna­ ment i J 3 under-par with scores of , “1 didn’t really put too much emphasis on thp FirpK^n^1 h!tS a tee shot durin9 her 6-under-par 66 round on the first day of being in the final group.1 feel I haven’t been Fririav at Roni snCas,no Hotel Championship, which had her in a tie for first place, in that position m years, and so just putting myself in that last group. 1 m proUd of myself i-naay at Battle Creek Country Club. for doing that. And not having played in an event al this high of ca Ifber for about eight months and then doing this here, it was just special,” said Gabrielle, who made only one bogey over 54 holes. “I feel like, since I turned professional, this was probably the most special event I’ve played in because of ... being able to play with my sister and having family here and I feel like part of this community. And having FireKeepers to believe in me and give me lhe sponsor’s exemption to be here ... I mean,except for nationals my senior year [at GVSU], this is the best for me in golf so far.” She earned 58375 for her fourth-place fin­ ish. Liu earned lhe FireKeepers* trophy as well as a prize of $26,250. Sarah Shipley scored a 75-71-77 to finish the weekend at 7-ovcr-par in 70th place. “Il was awesome. It’s always great to get lhe invitation, it’s always really awesome and Gabrielle Shipley putts out on 18 Sunday to close out her fourth-place performance at the FireKeepers Casino Hotel Championship at Battle Creek Country Club Sunday. (Photo by Will Kowalski) I’m very grateful for that,” Sarah said of her weekend in Battle Creek. “And also for our family to be able to make it out here with all the corona going on this year, especially since I’ve been in Lexington the entire summer and haven’t been able to see my family much, and also being able to play with (Gabby) in the same group thc first day was a lot of fun. “And she was playing great, and I was root­ ing for her with every putt she was standing over and she made almost all of them, so it was super exciting to sec her do well the whole time. (Gabby) has been going through some career decisions, and it’s been tough on her ... but she showed that she can play tins game well and is a well-rounded player and person, and it was good lo see her do so well.” Liu also earned a $ 10.000 bonus for captur­ ing lhe first of two SymelraTour events spon­ sored by thc Potawatomi tribe this summer. It was the 21-year-old’s fourth Symetra Tour triumph of her career. Liu climbed to No. 2 in thc Volvik Race for the Card money standings with $30319 earned in two events played. The top 10 in money at season’s end earn 2021 LPGA Tour playing cards. Normally there are four Potawatomi tribe-sponsored events on lhe Symetra Tour’s schedule each season, with players vying for Potawatomi Cup bragging rights and bonus cash. However, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Fire-Keepers Casino Hotel Championship toumey was one of only two season-shortened Potawatomi-involved events still scheduled for 2020 - and lhe first for thc Symetra Tour since COVID-19 shut down all play in March. For the safety of players. LPGA toumey staff, volunteers and Battle Creek CC mem­ bers, no spectators - other than a limited number of close family members - were allowed on the BCCC grounds to watch lhe toumey action and a selected few also partic­ ipated in a prc-toumey Pro-Am. “It’s been a tough year for everyone, with lhe COVID-19 situation, and these players have been through a lot like everyone else. And this is only their first tournament since COVID stopped tour play in March.” said Kathy George, FireKeepers Casino Hotel CEO and toumey director, to a small gather­ ing of media and others next to the 18th green last Sunday, soon after competition had ended and Liu had captured the title. “But we continue to be on the map for women’s golf with this tournament, and the women who played in this tournament deserve a round of applause. And we’re already look­ ing forward lo the eighth annual FireKeepers Casino Hotel Championship next year.” Liu - from Guangdong, People’s Republic of China - joined George at the winner’s table, accepting two checks from George and lhe tourney’s first place trophy. Will Kowalski contributed to this article. ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP ill BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENT PUBLIC HEARING Sarah Shipley 4ooksion&!?hei*'s’Ksier Gabrielle Shipley 'hits! a fehot from the other1 sldd of the fairway Friday at the FireKeepers Casino Hotel Championship at Battle Creek Country Club. Terpstra settling in as The Legacy’s assistant golf pro Brett Bremer Sports Editor PGA pro Seth Terpstra didn’t have stories to share from his first member/guest outing as the new assistant professional for The Legacy at Hastings. He took a “what happens at the Member/ Guest outing stays at the Member/Gucst” approach to the event which took place last weekend, one month into his new job in Hastings. A field of 96 players opened the competi­ tion will) a skins game practice round and a shoot-out Thursday, eventually crowning new Member/Guest champions on Saturday. In his few weeks on the job, Terpstra has been impressed the work director of golf operations Luke Poholski has put into lhe course in recent years. He look lhe position Hastings, after traveling around the country, in part because of the improvements that have been happening. . “I want to be somewhere I can grow with lhe golf course, and with new ownership tak­ ing over just a few years ago they are looking to invest in the growth of the golf course, Terpstra said. “Il is sometimes rare in the golf course industry at times. Golf courses can be too content and not continue to move for­ ward.” , . ... Terpslra went to high school al Grandville High School. He was one of five guys to go into a playoff for the individual championship at the 2014 MHSAA Division 1 Lower Peninsula Boys’ Golf Finals. From one team of Bulldogs to another, Terpstra played five years of collegiate golf at Fems Slate University. . He had a nine month internship in California as he worked inwards his golf management degree, then after a year back on campus in Michigan he went to teach at a course in Colorado. He placed 91st as a senior at the 2019 NCAA Division II National Championship, and qualified for the National Championship with the Bulldogs in 2017 as well. He has led over 1,200 lessons over past couple years, doing one-on-one sessions, cou­ ples, group and youth sessions as well. Oneon-one sessions are his favorite because of the in-depth attention he can give. Teaching is just one of his duties at the course. He will help run events, answer rules questions, and offer his insights into lhe golf side of things at The Legacy. Terpslra said The Legacy is looking to improve its event-hosting capabilities, both golf and non­ golf events. There are some challenges brought on by the global coronavirus pan­ demic, but he said it hasn’t been much trouble yet to have people wear masks indoors and socially distance outside at the golf course. Speaking of thc golf course, Terpslra likes the diversity of the different holes at The Legacy at Hastings. “The thing that is great about (The Legacy] is, it has a fantastic layout," Terpslra said. “It is fun. It is nol your average golf course that is straight back and then come back down right next to it straight down on lhe next fair­ way. There are some curves and bends a dog legs and elevation changes unique holes, which is what you need if you’re looking to build a successful golf course rather than just an everyday, average place. “The greens arc fantastic. Our crew does a great job making sure the greens arc always running smoothly.” Horseback rider dies after being hit by car Brittany Fender, 26, of Schoolcraft, died Friday after being hit by a car while she was riding a horse in northeast Allegan County. Fender and two other people were riding horses on 146th Avenue, near Ninth Street Ixighton Township, around 9:30 p.m., aCC ing to the Allegan County Sheriffs Department. l\vo people and their horses were sinnk from behind by a car driven by a Byron Center woman. . . Fender. a mother of two. was taken to J local hospiul, where she later die • . ond rider had minor injuries, an • treatment from first responders, sheriff’s department Lt. Brett Ensfield said in a news release. Both horses that were struck by the car died at lhe scene. ’Hie driver of the vehicle was uninjured. The Allegan County Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by Leighton Township Fire Department, Wayland Area EMS. Thomapple Township Emergency Services, and the Kent County Medical Examiner’s Office. lhe crash remains under invest jga. lion. PARKWAY DRIVE ROAD IMPROVEMENT SPECIAL ASSESSMENT district2020-1^ ulh, TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF ORANGEVILLE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Township Board of Orangeville Township, as authorized by PA 188 of 1954, as amended, proposes to undertake a road improvement project on Parkway Drive in Orangeville Township (as more particularly described below) and to create a separate special assessment district for the recovery of lhe costs thereof by special assessment against the properties benefited. Thc Township Board of Orangeville Township is acting pursuant to petitions, as authorized by PA 188 of 1954, as amended. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that thc special assessment district within which the foregoing improvements are proposed to be made and within which the costs thereof are to be specially assessed includes all parcels with frontage on and/or with access to Parkway Drive in Orangeville Township. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that thc Township Board has received plans showing thc proposed road improvements and associated activities, together with an estimated project cost in the approximate amount of S28.562. The cost of thc project is proposed to be raised by special assessment on parcels in the proposed district. The Orangeville Township Board has passed a resolution tentatively declaring its intention to undertake such project and to create the afore-described special assessment district. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that lhe Township Board has placed the project plans and costs estimate on file with thc Township Clerk and said plans, cost estimates and special assessment district may be examined at the Township Clerk’s office from the date of this Notice lo the date of the public hearing and may further be examined at such public hearing. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that thc Township Board proposes to make a special assessment based on road frontage on Winchester Drive (including an assessment for an end lot) each year for a period of five years (2020-2024 inclusive). The total assessment amount will be approximately S33.85 per foot of frontage and/or access on Parkway Drive. The Township Board reserves the right to levy a lesser assessment in thc final year of the special assessment district, if there are more funds in the special assessment district fund than the amount needed for the project. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a public hearing on the plans, district and cost estimates will be held at Orangeville Township Hall, 7350 Lindsey Road, Plainwell, Michigan, on August 11,2020 at 7:00 p.m. Al the hearing, the Board will consider any written objections and comments to any of the above matters which are filed with the Township Clerk at or before the hearing and any objections or comments raised at the hearing. The Township Board, at the hearing or al any adjournment of the hearing which may be made without further notice, may revise, correct, amend or change lhe plans, cost estimates or special assessment district. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that if written objections to the project arc filed with the Township Board al or before the hearing, signed by the record owners of land constituting more than 20% of the toial frontage on the road, thc township board may not proceed unless petitions in support of the project, signed by record owners ot more than 50% of the total frontage on the road proposed for improvement and for inclusion in lhe special assessment district, are filed with the township. The Township Board has already received petitions in support of the project signed by record owners of more than 50% of the total frontage on the road proposed for improvement. Written comments or objections may be fi]cd with the clerks at lhe address set out below. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that appearance and protest al the public hearing is required in order to appea*the am°unt of the special assessment to the Stale Tax Tribunal within 30 days after the special assessment roll is confirmed. An owner or party in interest, or his or hcr agent, may appear in person at the hearing to protest the special assessment, or shall be permitted to file at or before the hearing his or her appearance or protest by letter and his or her personal appcarance shaII not be required. All interested persons are invited to be present in person or by representative and to exprcss their views at lhe public hearing. T PLEASE ake FURTHER NOTICE that if the Township Board determines to proceed with the special assessment, the Board will cause a special assessment roll to be prepared and another hearing will be held, after notice |l( rWord owners of pt “ t0 specillUy assessed, to hear public comments concerning the proposed special assessment. y P ' Orangeville Towmhip wjn n<x.essary rcasonable auxiliary aids and services to individuals with disabilities at the hearing “P°n four (4) days* noticc 10 the Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township Clerk al the address below. Mel Risner, Clerk Orangeville Township 7350 Lindsey Road Plainwell. Ml 49080 (269) 664-4522 144877 W �MHSAA approves lower-risk’ competitions in August Pape 12 — Thursday. July 30. 2020 - The Hustings Banner The Representative Council of the Michigan High School Athletic Association today approved the next steps in returning sports for member schools, adopting a plan to phase in competition lor Fall sports in hopes ol con­ tinuing to deter thc spread of COVID-19. The Council affirmed that lower-risk sports - I-Otvcr Peninsula girls golf. Lower Peninsula boys tennis and Upper Peninsula girls tennis, cross country and Lower Peninsula girls swimming & diving - may begin practice on Aug. 12 and begin competition on their tradi­ tional start dates of Aug. 19 and 21. However, moderate and high-risk sports football, girls volleyball and boys soccer may begin practice but not competition. Decisions about competition timelines or these three sports will be made by Aug. -0Practice for boy s' soccer and girls volley-­ ball may begin on Aug. 12. lootball wi delay the start of practice with full player pa s and equipment until Monday. Aug. 17. I ic week of Aug. 10 may include football practice sessions consisting of conditioning, physical training and skill work with no other player equipment except helmets. This week ol acclimatization is similar to allowed summer football activities that have been ongoing for schools since June. The Council - the MHSAA’s 19-member legislative body - also voted to cancel scrim­ mages in all Fall sports for this school year and approved limitations on numbers of teams that may compete together at regular-season tournaments, invitationals and other multi­ team events. The Council believed eliminat­ ing scrimmages emphasized the importance of keeping teams from mixing before lhe first date of competition, and the regular-season limitations may lessen opportunities for viral spread while still allowing meets to be con­ ducted. As this remains a fluid situation, the MHSAA would release updated timelines for competition for football, girls volleyball and boys soccer by Aug. 20 dependent on how the spread of lhe virus is trending statewide. Plans remain reliant on sustained metrics measuring virus spread and/or progression by schools and regions across the stale according to Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s Ml Safe Sian Plan. Currently two regions are in Phase 5, which allow for limited indoor activity, while the rest are in Phase 4 and unable to host indoor training, practice or competition. The start of volleyball and swimming & ■ ■ ■ ■ Wednesday. .... “Each school and its designated administra­ tor has the duty to follow and support the sport seasons as presented for the health and safety of our students and coaches. The MIAAA has an important role in the season alignments for our schools and the partici­ pants as we have maneuvered through this pandemic and the adjustments it has forced upon our schools. including their athletic pn> * The MHSAA announced Wednesday that competitions for “lower-risk" sports such as girls’ golf, boys’ tennis, cross country and swimming and diving on their traditional start dates of Aug. 19 and Aug. 21, although indoor swimming and diving will be contingent on the reopening of indoor facilities. The MHSAA Representative Council deemed practices may begin for higher-risk sports, boys’ soccer, girls’ volleyball and football, in mid-August, but no competition timelines have been decided yet. (File photo) diving practices arc in part contingent on lhe reopening of indoor facilities. Those sports may begin their practices outdoors if not allowed to be indoors by Aug. 12. “The Council, rcficcling on the positive impact on their athletes this summer from taking part in offseason training, feels it’s of utmost importance to continue athletic activi­ ty moving forward,’’ MHSAA Executive Director Mark Uyl said. “If wc take a month off, our students will find opportunities to compete through non-school entities that may not be as focused on safety. Our athletic direc­ tors and coaches can provide the safest-possi­ ble environment to return to sports, and this phased-in approach to competition will help schools continue building on progress already made. “The Council chose to make these adjust­ ments to help ensure our athletes have a safe regular season this fall. As wc continue to solidify the regular season, we can then turn our attention to building a safe postseason for our athletes.” The Michigan Interscholaslic Athletic Administrators Association (MIAAA) quick­ ly followed up with a statement of support Wednesday. “Wc understand the decision to make lhe adjustments to the sport seasons and Tournament plans that schools will follow for the 2020-2021 school year was made based on the best information available at this time, and was done so in an effort to meet lhe health, safely, social, and emotional needs of lhe students in Michigan,” the MIAAA wrote grams.” t , 'Die MHSAA also has posted sport-by­ sport guidance documents outlining increased precautions designed lo limit thc viral spread, plus a four-pagc overview with precautions that apply generally for all sports and include coverage of the following topics: • Protocol for reporting COVID-19 infec­ tions. • Guidance on face coverings. Athletes par­ ticipating on the ficld/court am not required to wear face coverings, but are allowed to do so. However, bench personnel must wear face coverings at all times. • Transportation, use of locker rooms and facility cleaning. Specific sport guidelines and the overview are available on the respective sport pages of the MHSAA website. Recommendations on spectator attendance will follow before the start of competition*, spectators will be limited in accordance with Governor Whitmer’s executive orders on large gatherings. The Council on July 17 approved a return-to-activity plan for the 2020-21 school year retaining the traditional calendar of Fall, Winter and Spring sports, but allowing for the possibility that Fall sports forced to halt activ­ ity during the next four months may conclude later in the school year. “Thc easy way out would be to postpone all activity to next spring, and we are not faking lhe easy way out. But we will make wise deci­ sions based on medical guidance.” Uyl said. “We will make these difficult decisions quick­ ly and appropriately. If wc don’t play this fall, it won’t be because we didn’t make every effort to do so.” The Representative Council is the legisla­ tive body of the MHSAA. All but five mem­ bers arc elected by member schools. Four members arc appointed by the Council to facilitate representation of females and minorities, and the 19th position is occupied by the Superintendent of Public Instruction or designee. Don’t force schools to resume in-person classes, says schools chief Bridge Magazine Michigan schools shouldn’t be forced to resume in-person classes this fall and should receive funding allocations based on last year’s enrollments, state Superintendent Michael Rice argued T uesday. Testifying before a Senate committee. Rice criticized legislation approved last week by the Republican-led House lo require all Michigan school districts to offer the option of in-class instruction for students in kinder­ garten through fifth grade despite concerns over COVID-19. “Given the pandemic and the substantial fears of parents and staff, this is nol practica­ ble in ever)’ district in the state,” Rice told lawmakers, predicting some districts could prefer to continue with a "distance learning” approach for the entire school year, depending on how the continuing coronavirus pandemic unfolds. Because some parents may transfer chil­ dren depending on districts’ plans. Rice pro­ poses a one-year freeze in state enrollment counts to safeguard against districts luring students — and stale funding — from their neighbors. “If we start doing fresh counts in 2021, we arc going to exacerbate the instability in thc environment that already exists,” Rice told lawmakers. "We will create even more insta­ bility by unleashing this competition around in-person versus at ydistance, and I do not think it will benetjijbur children.” ' i’he’debate confes as districts plan for what may be the most unpredictable school year in Michigan hi stoiy. Because many districts now begin their academic year prior to Labor Day, state officials have only weeks to decide how and if to regulate reopenings. Not only are cases trending upward - to a seven-day average of 639 on Tuesday from 290 one month ago, June - but without more federal aid, thc slate’s School Aid Fund faces a $1.1 billion shortfall for the upcoming fiscal year, which starts in October. Thc House GOP plan, now awaiting action in lhe Senate, would limit the number of “e-learning" days that Michigan districts can count toward the 180 days of instruction required under Michigan law. It would also allow districts to contract with non-certified teachers for online classes and require lhe Michigan Department of Education to create a new Pupil Accounting and Pupil Auditing Manual Oversight Committee to oversee a new student count model. In-person instruction is "ideal” from an education standpoint, especially as schools try lo make up for time lost last year, said Rice, who operates independent of Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer but has generally aligned with hcr on education policy. He compared the GOP proposal to shooting Michigan ENT and Allergy Specialists is excited to announce that Dr. Jason Stubbs Is now accepting appointments to see patients at Spectrum Pennock Hospital Dr. Stubbs is a Board Certified Physician specializing in Ear, Nose and Throat care, from the more common procedures of ear tube placement tonsillectomy, and in-office sinus care and treatment to the evaluation ' and surgical treatment of thyroid nodules, as well as skin cancers of the head and neck. He has broad experience in the management of a wide variety of acute and chronic ENT pathologies and issues. Ensuring your comfort and providing you with the highest level of care • the most important priority. Dr. Stubbs will work closely with you and 'S referring doctor to ensure that you will have a very pleasant experien y°Ur as well as the development of a plan that best fits your unique situation' Dr. Stubbs is eager to serve the Hastings Community! Call to set up your appointment In Hastings today! MICHIGAN ENT & ALLERGY SPECIALISTS www.michiganentallergy.C0|n Dr. Jason T. Stubbs, DO, ENT Located at: Spectrum Health Pennock Medical Arts Building 1005 W. Green St., Suite 305 Hastings, Ml 49058 616.994.2770 a mosquito with a cannon: “You may get the mosqujfp, but you're likely going to do a lot of collateral damage along the way.” Schools need flexibility - and at least some modicum of certainly - as they design, fall plans, Rice said. To that end, he urged lawmakers to waive requirements that districts provide at least 1,098 instructional hours and take attendance each day, arguing it would be nearly impossi­ ble for schools to track or enforce those requirements for students learning at home and online. State Sen. Lana Theis, a Brighton Republican who chairs lhe Senate Education Committee, defended the House GOP pack­ age but said she is open to new ideas. Time is limited, however. Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey, R-Clarklake, hopes to finalize legislation by Aug. 6. “I have a lot of parents who are insisting that they want in-person education, and 1 have a lot of parents who arc insisting that they don’t," Theis said. “Those two things are mutually exclusive unless we find a way to do distance leaching well.” Whitmer, who closed schools in March as the coronavirus quickly spread across Michigan, last month released a 63-page “Return to School Roadmap" that proposes rules and recommendations for the fall. The plan from Whitmer anticipates districts w ill resume in-person classes or some sort of "hybrid approach that includes online instruction, but it does nol prohibit schools from keeping their buildings closed if local leaders choose to do so. “We can’t dictate for all 800 districts pre­ cisely what a day looks like," Whitmer said Tuesday. . Some of the work that’s coming out of thc Republcan-Ied Legislature has merit. Other pieces of it are modeled after lhe [U.S. Education Secretary Betsy) Devos plan to force schools to put kids back in thc class­ room.” Despite the House GOP proposal, a handful ot school districts have already announced plans to keep buildings closed this fall and start the school year with online-only instruction. Grand Rapids Public Schools Superintendent U‘adriane Roby on Mondav recommended lhe 14,000-student district uti­ lize distance learning” through at least Oct. -1. citing the "health, safely, and well-being of our students and staff.” Rice told lawmakers he hopes that most schools wdl "maximize” opportunities for in-ix:rson instruction, when possible, but he said the public health crisis takes precedence over public education. he?.hl,S^ak 10 ?ublic heahh ' don’t K.‘, b L-he cotK1',lons arc likely to become h l Ri“ Wamed' 'As wc 8* ^per into the school year, as we get into a flu season. as 'e move ,mo a likely second wave of the ptmdennc. what 1 hear is the best opportunity a sch<^l v? ,nStnf',on is al •l'e beginning ot a school year, not deeper." ��Hastings Banner • Graduation Issue, 2020 - page 2 REMEMBER WHEN speaker was retiring science teacher Marty Buehler told the members of the class of 2020 when they arrived at the high school as freshmen that he would be "graduating" with them. There was a lot of talk of the challenges the Saxon class of 2020 has overcome, and the challenges that lie ahead. "The most important thing you can contribute to our society is to love one another," Remenap said. "The greatest teacher who ever lived said simply, love one another.' If you watch the news or read the paper, you can see we need more love in our community, in our state, in our country and in the world. So, I certainly Blake Harris accepts his diploma from Hastings High hope that you will put that in the front of School principal Teresa Heide. your mind when you leave, and I hope you do know there are a ton of people our growth, both intellectual and moral, in Hastings who love the heck out of you does not end here. We must treat every Graduating senior Anna Seheck addresses her classmates and the crowd at Hastings High School's 144th and are here to support you, no matter day as a new challenge. commencement ceremony Thursday in the high school where your life takes you beyond here." parking lot. "Simply put, we need to be better "Do you remember that one time, it is kind Roosien spurred his classmates forward tomorrow than we were today. ... If we all of long ago, when we graduated in the after Brown led them in the tassel turning strive towards pillars of knowledge, lives middle of July?" of kindness and routines of discipline, we ceremony will be 200 children, turned adults, turned Graduating senior Alex Steward asked that ‘We enter as children. We leave as Hastings High School graduates ready to question to his partner Hannah Johnson emerging adults," Roosien said. "It is my change the world. near the conclusion of their "Remember hope and our individual responsibility that When" segment at Hastings High School’s "So, I ask you and I urge you, be curious, 144th annual commencement ceremony be strong, be kind, be disciplined and Thursday evening. change the world." "It is kind of hard to forget," answered Johnson. "Congratulations class of 2020, we made it - barely!" Hastings High School hosted a drive­ in graduation ceremony in the parking lot on the north side of the high school Thursday, with a stage set up in the drive on the south side of the parking lot, with the members of the class of 2020 seated an appropriate six feet apart and their friends and family in vehicles behind them listening to it all on their car stereos and streaming on Facebook live. High school principal Teresa Heide and Hastings Area School System superintendent Daniel Remenap spoke to the crowd and students, as did class of 2020 members Alayna Vazquez, Anna Scheck, Eleanor McFarlan, Shannon Brown and William Roosien III. The keynote Shannon Brown leads her classmates in the tassel turning Madison Wells looks on from her seat as (he as her classmates perform the “Remember When” portion of the Hastings High School graduation ceremony Thursday. ceremony at the 144th annual Hastings High School commencement ceremony Thursday at Hastings High School. �Hastings Banner * Graduation Issue, 2020 J page 3 - “I hope you do know there are a ton of people in Hastings who love the heck out of you and are here to support you, no matter where your life takes you beyond here.” - Hastings Area School System Superintendent Daniel Remenap YOU ARE STRONG YOU ARE RESILIENT YOU ARE AWE Hastings Area School System superintendent speaks to the graduates and the spectators at the 144th annual Hastings commencement ceremony Thursday evening. Kennedy Newberry gets a fist bump from Hastings Area School System superintendent Daniel Remenap after receiving her diploma on the state Thursday. & Blake Williams accepts his diploma from Hastings High School principal Teresa Heide at the high school in Hastings Thursday. William Roosien III speaks to his classmates at die conclusion of the graduation ceremony at Hastings High School Thursday. �HastingsBannor ♦ Graduation Issuo, 2020 • pag° GRADUATES AWARDED FOR ACTIVITIES, LEADERSHIP AND ACADEMICS SCHOLARSHIPS Most scholarships had specific criteria to be met by the recipients, and soma required admission to a particular university or field of study. The majority of the scholarships reqarod an opp' cation process. Some of the awards were chosen by the dono: and others were selected by a committee. HASTINGS EDUCATION ENRICHMENT FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS Hastings Car Club Scholarship: Benjam’n Curtis • Helen Mott Scholarships: Gracie Landes. Tina Lewis and Rachael Mue.'ier. Howard and Leona VanDclic Scholarships: Aiayna Vazquez and Abigail YZnick. LOCAL SCHOLARSHIP Robert Casey Scholarship: Abigail Winick. Herbert J. Reinhardt Scholarship: Anna WINNERS L. H. Lamb Scholarships: Alayna Vazquez Scheck. Gladys Cairns Scholarships: Joshua Brown. and Joshua Yi. Woody Wyngarden Memorial Scholarship: Elizabeth Gonsalves and Connie Ricketts. Ruth Tangerstrom Memorial Scholarships: Elizabeth Beemer. Highpoint Community Bank Scholarship: Chelsea Beede and Abigail Winick. Hastings Kiwanls Club Scholarships: Blake WiHiam Roosien I'! First Presbyterian Church of Hastings Hanis and Marcelo Hernandez Avalos. Hastings Mutual Insurance Company Scholarship: Jonathan Arnold. FFA Alumni Scholarships: Emily Mrtcholl and Scholarship: William Roosien III. Vai “Bub" Bennett Springer Scholarship: Tyler Haylee VanSyckle. College Initiative Scholarships: Abigail Kaiser. Dana Burgess-Hastings High School Alumni Thorman and Emma Vann. Kellogg Community College Foundation Association Scholarships: Carter Cappon Scholarships: Rigdon Pederson (Leonard and Erin Dolman. and Dorotha Dott Memorial Scholarship. Leo Brad and Karin Johnson Scholarship: F. and EJoanor R Frey Memorial Scholarship): Hannah Johnson. Paxton Walden (Ethel Denton and Richard T. Trades/Technlcal Scholarship: Marcelo Groos Memorial Scholarship, Leonard and Hernandez Avalos. Dorotha Doff Memorial Scholarship) and William Czinder Scholarship: Tyler Kaiser. Abigail Winick (Diane and John Kellogg Mabel Foote Scholarships: Kathleen Pattok Education Scholarship) and Rigden Pederson. Hastings Athletic Boosters Scholarships: George Wibalda Scholarship: Makayla Kaih'cen Pattok and William Roosien 111. Casarez. Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force Hastings Rotary Club Scholarships: Erin Youth Scholarship: William Roosion III. Dalman and Hannah Johnson. Eldon Willard Scholarship: Rigden Pederson. Rosellen E. and Paul E. Siegel Scholarships: Mary Youngs Music and Athletic Memorial Dane Barnes, Hannah Bloomberg and Scholarships: Hannah Johnson and Evan Braden Tolles. Murphy. Beatrice Fisher Wollin Scholarship: Erin Coach and Kathleen Clarey Scholarship: Dalman. Anna Scheck. Willard G. Pierce and Jessie M. Pierce Andrea M. Storrs Scholarship: Chelsea Scholarship: Rao Herron. Beede. Andrea M. Storrs Scholarships: Xander Barry County Humane Society Scholarship: Allerding and Gracie Giilons. Anna Scheck. Carl and Loretta Schoossel Community James and Mel Hund Scholarship: Chelsea Service and Leadership Scholarships: Beede. Jamison Lesick and Abby ZuH. Gies Family Scholarship: Dane Barnes GFWC Hastings Women's Club “Jumpstart Your Future" Scholarships: Chelsea Beede. AWARDS Barbara Colleen Hooten Memorial Scholarshlp-Hastings: Chelsea Beede. DEPARTMENT AWARDS Paulsen Trust Scholarship: Shannon Brown. The various departments within the high Charles Baldwin Speakers Club Scholarship: school selected one graduating senior to Earl McKenna. receive the Student of the Year award for Hastings Education Association that department. Scholarships: Elizabeth Beomer, Joshua Brown, Karsyn Daniels. Evan Murphy, Kennedy Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Newberry and Braden Tolles. Program Award: Haylee VanSyckle. Hastings Educational Support Personnel Business Program Award: Matthew Sweeney. Association Scholarships: Blake Harris. Emily Construction Trades Program Award: Noah Mitchell and Abigail Winick. Dunn. Carrie Roe Memorial Scholarships: Eliie Saur Culinary Arts Program Award: Gabriel Trick. and Alexander Steward. Engineering Design Program Award: John Hinkle. Face the Wind Award: Erica Davis. Fine Arts Department Award: Elizabeth Beemer. Language Arts Department Award: Camden Teiikamp. Math Department Award: Anna Scheck. Science Department-Victor D. Camp Award: Eleanor McFarlan. Social Studies Department Award: Anna Schock. Spanish Department Award: Shannon Brown. ACADEMIC LETTER AWARDS First-year Award; Hunter Allerding, Ireland Barber. Thomas Barnard Jr.. Chelsea Beede, Elizabeth Beemer, Juan Calderon, Katherine Cook. Grade Giltons. Blake Harris. Marcelo Hernandez-Avalos, Joseph Kalmink. Gracie Landes. Jamison Lesick, Jessica Mueller, Kennedy Newberry, Connie Ricketts, Natalie Taylor, Abigail Thorman. Braden Tolles. Andrew Vann. Alayna Vazquez. Paxton Walden, Sydney Wolf and Logan Wolfenberger. Second-yoar Award: Jonathan Arnold, Joshua Brown. Carter Cappon. Kevin Coykendaii, Benjamin Curtis, Erin Dalman, Tyler Kaiser, Jaden Kamatz. Aidan Matted, Bailey Musculus. William Roosien III, Anna Scheck. Matthew Sweeney, Camden Teiikamp. Kaytee Tlgcheiaar and Abby Zull. Thlrd-yoar Award: Dano Barnes. Shannon Brown, Kayla Brzycki. Audrey Byykkonen, Makayla Casarez. Karsyn Daniels, Elizabeth Gonsalves, Rae Herron, John Hinkle, Hannah Johnson, Brenna Kiipfer, Eleanor McFarlan, Earl McKenna, Caeleb Meyers, Kathleen Pattok. Ellie Saur, Steve Schnur, Zachary Sc hour, Elijah Smith and Hayleo VanSyckle. ATTENDANCE AWARDS Outstanding Attendance Awards: Hannah Johnson, Caeleb Meyers, Lacie Overmire and Matthew Sweeney. Outstanding Attendance All Four Years: Hannah Johnson. OTHER AWARDS AND RECOGNITION Congressional Modal of Merit: William Roosien III. Senior Foreign Exchange Student Recognition: Celina Christiansen, Luca Franzolini. Natalia Marquez, Zoe Tielemans and Alena Wlrnderllch. Michigan High School Athletic Association Farm Bureau Scholar Athlete Awards: Dane Barnes, Joshua Brown, Carter Cappon, Enn Dolman, Hannah Johnson and YZ :.om Roosien Hi. George “Buzz” Youngs Athlete Awards: Erin Dalman and Gabriel Trick HONOR CORD RECIPIENTS WHITE AND GOLD CORDS (Early College) Alyssa Carter, Callie Lear, Caeleb Meyer. Jessica Mueller, Matthew Sweeney. DOUBLE WHITE CORDS (3.0-3.24 GPA - honors) Casey Barnes, Hannah Bloomberg, Cdlin Hawthorne, Rayna Honsowitz. Brooklyn Knowtton, Madison Lindquist Rachael Mueller, Evan Murphy. Rigden Pederson, Alexander Steward, Gabriel Trick and Joshua Yi. BLUE AND WHITE CORDS (3.25-3.74 GPA - high honors) Hunter Allerding, Jonathan Arnold, Ireland Barber, Thomas Barnard Jr., Chelsea Beede. Elizabeth Beemer. Joshua Brown, Juan Calderon. Carter Cappon, Katherine Cook, Kevin Coykendaii. Benjamin Curtis, Erin Dalman, Gracie Giilons. Blake Harris. Marcelo Hernandez-Avalos, Rae Herron, John Hinkle, Tyler Kaiser. Joseph Kalmink. Jaden Kamatz, Gracie Landes. Jamison lesick. Aldan Matted, Eari McKenna. Jessica Mueitef, Bailey Musculus, Kennedy Newberry, Connie Ricketts, Steve Schnur, Matthew Sweeney, Camden Teiikamp, Abigail Thorman. Kaylee Tlgcheiaar, Braden Tolles, Andrew Vann, Alayna Vazquez. Paxton Walden. Sydney Wolf, Logan Wolfenbarger and Abby Zull. BLUE AND GOLD CORDS (3.75-3.99 GPA - highest honors) Kayla Brzycki. Makayla Casarez. Karsyn Daniels, Elizabeth Gonsalves, Brenna Kiipfer, Caeleb Meyers, William Roosien HI, Ellie Saur, Zachary Schnur, Elijah Smith. Natalie Taylor and Haylee VanSyckle. DOUBLE GOLD CORDS (4.0 GPA and above - top honors) Dane Barnes, Shannon Brown, Audrey Byykkonen. Hannah Johnson. Eleanor McFarlan. Kathleen Pattok and Anna Schock. ATHLETIC HONORS NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY Saxon Scholar Athlete Awards: Jonathan Arnold. Dane Barnes, Joshua Brown, Shannon Brown. Audrey Byykkonen. Carter Cappon, Makayla Casarez. Benjamin Curtis. Erin Dalman. Karsyn Daniels, John Hinkle, Hannah Johnson, Tyler Kaiser, Aidan Matted, Kathleen Pattok. William Roosien III, Ellie Sour, El.jah Smith and Abby Zull. Interstate-8 Scholar Athletes: Jonathan Arnold, Dane Barnes, Shannon Brown, Erin Dolman, Hannah Johnson. Aidan Matted. Kathleen Pattok. William Roosien III, Elijah Smith and Abby Zull. Saxon Scholar Athlete Awards and SENIOR MEMBERS Jonathan Arnold, Dane Barnes, Elizabeth Beemer, Joshua Brown, Shannon Brown, Audrey Byykkonen, Carter Cappon, Makayla Casarez. Benjamin Curtis. Erin Dalman, Karsyn Daniels, Hannah Johnson. Brenna Kiipfer, Eleanor McFarlan, Caeleb Meyers, Kennedy Newberry, Kathleen Pattok. William Roosien 111. EDie Saur, Anna Scheck. Braden Tolles, Hayleo VanSyckle, Alayna Vazquez and Abby Zull. ” ......... —...... , „„ �Hastings Banner - Graduation Issue. 2020 • page 5 “I feel like to say this year has been unconventional would be quite the understatement, but our unconventional year has brought out so many amazing things in people.” - HHS graduate Alayna Vazquez Graduating senior Alayna Vazquez welcomes the students and spectators to the 144th annual commencement from the stage in the Hastings High School parking lot Thursday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) “I think that you are uniquely prepared and ready to stand up to the task before you. Again, I believe in you. We all believe in you. You've got this.” - keynote speaker Marty Buehler to the class of 2020 Hannah Johnson celebrates accepting her diploma on the stage at Hastings High School. We (tape gout dteams tahe gou to the catnets of gout smiles, to the highest of gout hopes, to the windows o[ (jout oppotiu/iites, and to the most special places gout heatt has euet known. lWe ate so uetg ptoud of gout haul wotk to achieve this accom p lishmejit! Ben we are so proud of nil you have accomplished in High School! You have strived to do great things and we know you will continue to do so. Now it’s time to let your light shine at Central Michigan University! Keep your eyes on your goals and you will go far. Fire Up Chips! Zone - ‘IJout Samilg Love, Dad, Mom, Grace and KyJie! �Hastings Banner • Graduation Issue, 2020 • pago 6 Colton Snow We shared your joys and fears from the start to finish of years. Now wishing yO mu£h, success as yon begii your next chapter. Grtihdmh Anitu. . Mom. Dud. Cnydcn & Chloe vrrr&r&cF Well, it’s like I always say, children got to he free to lead their own life you, You have found your voice and chosen a path (hat honors who you arc, and that may be your greatest lesson learned thus far. Il is with deepest pride and greatest pleasure that we proudly present our graduate Alexander Steward! Jeremiah 29:11 �Hastings Banner • Graduation Issue, 2020 - page 7 �Hastings Banner - Graduation Issue. 2020- page 6 . . .. ■ ' -• •.'- •-■'j *. .’-•?■ 1 •■- �Hastings Banner • Graduation Issue, 2020 - page 9 ; S • I -. * ■ •■• . n A "• : R ,’.<J F J ■’ ’ / Earl McKenna Evan Murph)’ ' WWKlMdUiii \ �Hastings Banner - Graduation Issue, 2020 - pago 10 Tyler Sue Matthew Sweeney Natalie Taylor Alex Taylor $ tli Qicky Thelen Abigail Thorman Zoe Ticlemans Kaylec Tigchclaan Braden Tolles •; Gabriel Trick ! Andrew Vann • ■«GK5c»25r *. Lmma Vann Paxton Walden Madison Wells ft ■ Abigail Winick ■ I Sydney Wolf Logan Wolfenbarger Alena Wunderlich! CREEKSIDE VISION 8 HEARING For vision. For hccrinq For health 130 W. State, 269-945-4284 Bailey tlliott 1761 w- M-43 Hwy., Hasting, 269-945-3888 • CroGksldoVision.com �■ Makayla p if .*'*<_. * v**®/ ** We are so proml of you and all of your wonderful accomplishments^ • • Your Future is BRIGHT. •• ■J Jxeland, MomJ)ad, Emily & Holly We cute uvty proud of you and alt that you have achieved. you axe an intelligent, driven, and daphisticatcd young, woman with the brightest of futures on the horizon. Reach fox ycux dxeamo and we'd be xight there cheering you on. Congxatuiationo Rug!! Juoue Alont Rad Bl WiW.r.—.„ ............. -............................. k^ADVANTAGE BARRY Barry County Lumber PLUMBING & DRAIN 1 269-945-3431 .... -...... . ph. FOUNDATION ” ' 225 N Industrial Park Dr Hastings 269-945-0300 616 BAY TO BAY 570.7779 i^^))COMMUN,TY 269-945-0526 — Illlllll CIKIFTI — www.boytobaybulldlngconcepts.com 231 S. Brodway St.. Hastings Ml 49058 ■■■■■rr"" •V>v Barry County Real Estate ________ . Hastings. Ml 49059 Heidi L. Strlmback Realtor BROKER— ^S'MOKER Southern F>L5Q S Catering Linda jmnnMivix Watson 269 838-9304 hstrimback© gmail.com BRIAN’S TIRE & SERVICE * fright Shod Pediatrics 1375 W. Green St.. Suite 3. Hastings 235 S. Jefferson. Hastings U Al I-STA'I I 269.838.9303 lindabcre^l gniail.com 19333 259-241-1050 fa w ww.bri ght.start • ped iatrio xom (Lttzimwi BROWN’S CARPET ONE & CUSTOM INTERIORS Middleville. 12 269-818-0070 269-945-9549 or HAsrmas. inc. 221 N. Industrial Park. Hastings 312 E. Court, Hastings 269-945-2479 269-945-3412 \J//// COMMERCIAL BANK 629 W. State St. Hastings. Ml 49058 Insurance for all of your needs. FCXC 269-045-0561 • www.commerclal-b4nk.com —r I23W. State Street IU-.tingi.MI 49Q5K . ImT^ 122 W. Mill st. Ph (269) 948-8281 Fax (269) 948-8590 counr.s;o£ of hustings IS www.courtsldcinc.com SCREEN PRINTING y EMBROIDERY J __ gra Delton Pol© UuihDna Stinplic* I 10036 M-43 Delton, Michigan Special (km^rarularions co 269-623-3300 deltonpole.com Chelsea Johnson lK �Hastings Banner - Graduation Issue, 2020 - page 12 /, Shane We m e beyond excited for sou and wish you nothing but the best in life. Continue to follow your dreams. Wc love you and we are so proud of you Love. Mom. Dad. CoHen and Makayja ■ VV« V ■ V Congtatulations on your 2020 Graduation! You have accomplished so much, excelled at all you’ve put your mind too & wc arc truly eager to sec what your future holds! CAti feO it!w ■■ DEWEY'S AUTO BODY 1111 W. Green, Hastings. Ml 49058 www.dowoysautobody.com 269-945-4915 Edward Jones AlWu vc. Spencer. Kim. Dane •&. Bri FIRST REHAB AND SPORT MAtUMfi SIAM orisvisiisa Andrew R. Cove, AAMS° Financial Advisor 421 W. Woodlawn. Hasbngs. Ml 49058 269-945-3553 Walt Disney PHYSICAL THERAPY 2169 W. M-43, Hastings 269-309-1090 across from Bob’s Gun &. Tackle :■ ® Flexfob Engineering trust. Around the world.' 1699 Wosl M 43 Highway, Hastings. Mi 49G58 269-945-2433 • Fax 269-945-4802 www ttOKtab.com - Ddk Hdlir.pky l> rector • Raj Gintuch Pat Doezema GREEN LIGHT GIRRBACH GENERAL STORE TiLtwon Funeral Home Fax gaho0663 328 S. Broadway, Hastings 269-945-1848 269-945-3252 Trailer Sales 1-888-422-2280 highpointcommuniyybank.com MernbrUDC 517-852-0000 400 W. State St., Hastings 4600 N. M-37Hwy., Middleville 259.205.2613 • HARKEMAAUTO.COM COMMUNITY BANK 269.838.1469 Hastings Athletic Boosters Horkemo highpoint Managing Broker Realtor- Convenience Htdaujty: und Free Uko! Delixcry axsilaNe 269-945-3777 Czcnd ac . _Zm_ 122W. State St, Hastings Hodges Jewelry H ASTI N GS Associate Broker (Wcr; 269-704-1000 215 S.Jctfcrson.hultc 2 lusting.*, MI 19058 2169 W. M U Hwy. Hxstintfr, Ml 49038 Hastings coxaRJvrs Senior Party CLAIX OF Committee 20Z0 Jan Hawthorne, realtor Cell: 269-838-2145 Gifts 945-2963 GRFENRiDGE REALTY Conghafufaftotu, SEPTIC SERVICE 3X5 Wut Q.-.-nty Ml 45OS J 269.945.4240 ‘Benjamin John Curtis “<Nebby” �Hastings Banner • Graduation Issue. 2020 - pago 13 Stiyden fPedeuon e aw pwud of tjoui acccjnptbfimcnb. Wc can't luait to ^cc uthut and adtvtc tfib next chapter takcA r/ou. [uifuhutc Wc £aoc you - Aloni and (J)ad. Qtaadpa and (fiandnui ■ you and all yon have achieved; can’t wait to see what the future holds for you. : . Rjgden Pederson’ H'e love you very rniichi Mom mid Dad RUN FAST GO SAINTS /727/ED FARM BUREAU BCJLZD, INSURANCE* Holiday Inn Michigan1* Insurance Company r vvv LXI™1 DENTON MacLeod 139 W. State St.. Hastings 269-948-2824 1099 Wesl M-43 HMltfiQf. Ml 49058 269.945.0000 216 N. Broadway (M-43) 1-172 Blocks North of Downtown Hastings 201 N. BroalAay Hcstngx Ml 49053 ‘ 269-945-5888 269-945-4520 www.thelynndcntonagcncy.con> iWsfel McDonald's — ’ -•/ realestate ’ 149 W. State St. Hastings 269-945-5182 Chiropractic 327 W. Apple St. Hastings 269-948-3170 hurray's Asphalt Maintenance Rwdcnhal - CMMnrrdai ■ Indmtnai - MuntutMi (269) 948-9369 www.murraysasphalt net 122 N. Jefferson Rd. Hastings, Ml 49058 NORTHLAND OPTICAL Dr. Scott Bloom D.O. 1510 N. Broadway (M-43 Hwy) Hastings 948*9696 269-945-3906 2020 r.G9-9T.'> K7H0 319 N. Broadway St. Ilxstinp Ml 49058 ■ Makayla Casarez PROGRESSIVE GRAPHICS EPAIR 819 E Railroad St. Hastings 269-948-9472 115 S Jefferson St, Hastings 269-945-9249 Performance I ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■otia Quick Lube 430 W. STATE ST, HASTINGS 269-948-8558 REDMOND WOOD FLOORS Quality Aluminum Products 429 S Michigan Ave, Hastings, MI 49508 269-838*5561 or Find us on Facebook www.RedmondWoodRoors.com �Hastings Bannor - Graduation Issue. 2020 - page 14 ■....... ■ Chelsea Johnson - . S'1 »j " .• */ IE ■■k Congratulations on your graduation! We are so proud ofyou and Wish you the best in yourfuture endeavors! love, your Johnsonfamily estate Farm 300 Meadow Run Dr.. Hastings South of Hastings on M-J7 wwwsouthMdc4kids.com 1105 W. State Street • Hostings. Ml 269-948-2701 269-818-1020 Ymv.stgtestfgQldinQrhQsiiDflSxCQni Thornapple Lake Estates 6335 Thomapple Lake Rd NashYlllo, Ml 49073 TAL GEARHART 825 S Hanover St. Hastings (269) 948-1284 202 S. Broadway Hastings, MI 49058 THORNAPPLE FLOORING & FURNITURE 517-852-1514 • Fax 517-852-2193 thomapplaikestates@gmall.com (269) 948*2900 www.TrippandTagg.com hastlngsfandf.com 107 E. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings. Ml 49050 tcu Thornapple Credit Union WU b. Grove St. Delton: (269) 623 6700 202 E Woodlawn Ave.. Hast.ngs (269)948 8369 410 S. Bioedway Middleville. Ml 49333: (269) 241-1034 wwwthanupplecu.com FARMERS INSURANCE TROY DALMAN AGENCY 128 \V. Mill St.. Hastings * 269-945-3423 — m UnionBank =Welton,s Your life. Your bunk. HEATING & COOLING HASTINGS Lake Odessa Fttti 401 N. Broadway, Hastings 269-945-5352 9275 S M-37 Highway. Dowling. Ml 49050 269-721-8077 wwwxountrychapel.church *** abb^h *j’ 2W-M3-7452 Leaping Lizards Landscaping i&csBaNNER 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings 269-945-9554 Stephan>e Fckkes Attorney Quality Detailing ofyour ^Boat •CarfTrurk •Aircraft 1530 S. M-37, Hastings, Ml 49058 Bus- 269-945-7211 Cell; 239-826-7336 ISC Wx*t Cuurt 3 Cww A rWaUv*. S* 4'K<6 M Gorrcvu. A^ W< L» XX CkW,1 (toll Ui 4MOJ rK»>)V Y» U4 n.vn O-Su* 7MM515C, <*sct: 6I0 2X1S25Q •B*. Ct'J733«Cft9 �Hastings Banner - Graduation Issue. 2020 - page 15 Doner, We hove loved every minute watching you go through your chi'dnood. school years & becoming a young adult. Graduation is a door opening to the next adventure We are excited to see where takes you! “CONGRATULATIONS BEN!! “Take PRIDE in how far you’ve come Have FAITH in how tar you CAN go But don't forget to ENJOY the journey" Michael Josephson We are so proud of you and can’t wait to see what the future holds. Love, Mom, Ryan, Lcxie, Grandpa & Grandma Gl^ Love you to the moon & bock’ Mom, Dod & Bn �Hastings Banner - Graduation Issue, 2020 - page 16 .«»• .. *»r — .... . - ... ..... ' ' Graduating senior Skyler Teske smiles as classmates perform the annual “Remember When” segment during the Hastings High School commencement ceremony Thursday. Class of 2020 HASTINGS HIGH SCHOOL ONE HUNDRED FORTY-FOURTH ANNUAL COMMENCEMENT JULY 23, 2020 HASTINGS, MICHIGAN BjxkriLQfJk<JyiiatiQ_n Luke E. I laywood.... Valeric A. Slaughter.. Jennifer I- Eastman.. Ixniis F. Wierenga, Jr Michael A. Nickels... Daniel F. PattonTrustee Robert P. PohlTrustee President Vice-President .Secretary Treasurer Trustee Student Council Executive Board Hannah JohnsonPresident Shannon BrownVice-President Maggie NedbalekSecretary Ella CarrollTreasurer/ Public Relations Administration Daniel C. Remcnap Superintendent Matthew J. GoebelAssistant Superintendent of Student Achievement Robert Tim BerlinAssistant Superintendent of Operations Teresa G. HeidePrincipal, Hastings High School Joel M. SmithAssistant Principal, Hastings High School Michael K. GogginsAthletic Director/Assistant Principal, Hastings High School Stephen E. HokeSpecial Program Administrator Beth A. StevensPrincipal, Hastings Middle School Cortney L. CoatsAssistant Principal, Hastings Middle School Dana L. SteinPrincipal, Southeastern Elementary Eric K. HeidePrincipal, Northeastern Elementary* Sarah R. Gcukcs...iPrincipal, Central Elementary Amy S. SmelkerPrincipal, Star Elementary* Matthew W. MooreDirector of Food Services Dale D. Krueger III Director of Maintenance Hj^_S.chQ.QJUCfl.cjiilty Richard (Scott) Allan Dan Baker Erin Bargo zXnnMarie Beemer Teresa Borton Marty* Buehler Jason Burghardt Robert Carl Steve Collins Steve Crozier Jennifer Delaphiano Mark DeVries James Dixon Edward Domke James Doran Michael Engle Marshall Evans Jennifer Ewers Casey Gcrgen Amanda Gurtowsky Andrew Haines Daniel I layward Renee Herbert Jason Hoefler Mike Key Laura Kingma Adam Knapp Justine Kramer Dora Ix’onard Cathy Ixjngstreet Sara Matthews-Kaye Andria Mayack Michael McCann Steve Merring Andrew Moore James Murphy Kelli Newberry Jacqualynn Northrop Natasha Offerman Angela Peymbroeck Jeanette Pickard Susan Post Greer Putnam Krista Schueller Justin Straube Kimberly Swecris Joann Vandeni lout Daniel Volk Austin Wegener Spencer White Jill Withcy Senior Class Officers Braden TollesPresident Benjamin CurtisVice-President Eleanor McFarlanSecretary Alayna VazquezTreasurer Hannah BloombergAiderman William Roosien IIIAiderman Ellie SaurAiderman Valeria /Vias Skyler Grego Maggie Nedbalek Josephine Nickels Grayson Patton Reese Warner Amy Colli ns Kristi Erb Cheryl Northrop Teresa Mitchell Britney Curtis Barb I lenrvZ Deb James Brenda Johncock Tim Kietzman Andrew Maurer Nathan Meyers Rich Pohja Debby Sutfin Shelley Wlnegar Melissa Winick � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-08-06.pdf dc10eed2ad4ad02e8ba5efbeade37b39 PDF Text Text •to­ w Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 1070490102590502500649058113421 ANNER ............................................CAR . >, ■ Richard Hemeit-ng 421 N Taflee Dr Hastings Ml 4905S-113 . j 9 47 00 AM PRICE $1.00- VOLUME 167, No. 31 LOCAL ELECTION RESULTS AT A GLANCE ELECTED OFFICIALS /XII Barry County elected officials who faced a challenge in the primary overcame their opponents but. in the case of Register of Deeds Barbara Hurless, it wasn’t by much. Challenger Heather Wing, the District 7 county commissioner who had relinquished her post on the county board to run for the register’s office. lost by 416 votes. 5.193 to 4,777. Wing, of Assyria Township, prevailed in her home township — as well as Baltimore. Irving. Maple Grove. Prairieville town­ ships. and the second precincts of both Thomapple and Yankee Springs tow nships. FEW INCUMBENTS UNSEATED Six incumbents - two supervisors and four trustees - were defeated at the town­ ship level. Assyria Township Supervisor Mike Timmons lost to Tom Wing, 218-163. Carlton Township Trustee Cary Smith came up short in a three-way contest for tw o seals Two vote:* separated Smith (219) land chalien^er Scan (221). while incumbent Gary \zandeCar eked by them with 265 votes. Prairieville Township incumbent trustee Richard Van Niman was edged out in the two-scat race by Mark D. Doster and Ted DeVries. Rutland Charter Township Trustee Marlin Walters was defeated in a six-way nice for four scats on dial board. Yankee Springs Township Supervisor Mark Englerth fell to challenger Rob Heethuis. 825-519. and Yankee Springs trustee Shanon VandcnBcrg received 561 votes - too few in a three-way race for two seats. CLOSE RACES Just 2 votes made the difference in Carlton and Irving townships: Scott Bond bested Cary Smith for the trustee seal in Carlton Township. In Irving Township. Rhonda X'an Polvn fell 2 votes shy of unseating incumbent trustee Dean Bass, who received 296 votes. Oilier clo?>e races included the four trust­ ee seals in Rutland Charter Township- Six candidates sought lour seats: Ute differ­ ence between the fourth and fifth finishers was 13 votes. In the five-way race for trustee in Orangeville Township, newcomer Chad Kraai (316) and incumbent Linda Ribble (302) won the primary. 19 votes away from the third-place finisher, Jodi Patrick (283). Incumbent Irving Township supervisor Jamie Knight held off challenger Tim Ross bv 34 voles. 359-325 ' PROPOSALS Thu only millage dial was turned down in Barry County was an operating millage for the Allegan Area Education Service Agency, which fell 3 votes short among collective voters in Orangeville. Prairieville and Yankee Springs township-*. Byl millage won by more than 700 votes in Allegan County. WE’RE IN THIS TOGETHER 1 MASK thought I was going to die’ Some witnesses weep as they recall what happened June 21, 2019 I Taylor Owens Staff Writer Before her husband shot and killed two people. June 21.2019. started off just like any other day. Lynn Burnett testified Monday. Jon Burnett, 63. of Orangeville Township, is being tried by a Barry County jury for 35 felony counts, including two for open murder and one of unlawful imprisonment, in the deaths of his neighbor. Gary Peake, 73, also of Orangeville Township, and Bryce Nathan DeGood. 21. of DeWitt. Burnett’s trial started Monday, under gen­ eral social distancing guidelines in Barry County District Court. Judge Michael Schipper, who is presiding, said the court is not bound by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s executive order that restricts occu­ pancy to 10 people in a room. The case has been approved to move forward by the Michigan Stale Supreme Court. Jury selection took place at the Barry Expo Center, where 120 prospective jurors were called and interviewed: 12 jurors and two alternates were seated. Limited public seating is available in courtroom. and the trial is being streamed live on You l ube so the public may observe it on the Barry County Trial Court 56B District Court channel. During opening arguments Monday. Barry County Prosecuting Attorney Julie Nakloor I’raU snid Burnett’s anger at the world and life in general boiled over June 21. before he shot and killed both men. Defense attorney Gordon Shane McNeill Defendant Jon Burnett, on left, waits with his attorney Gordon ShaneMcNeill during said the defense does not dispute that Burnett jury selection Monday at the Expo Center. The trial, Barry County J<dge Michael shot and killed Peake and DeGood. But. Schipper presiding, is continuing likely into next week. (Photo by Scott formsen) McNeill said, he did not intend to do so, and was acting in self-defense. “We submit Jon believed he w’as justified as to each altercation.” McNeill said. Regardless of what the witnesses saw, or think they saw. none of them know what Burnett was thinking, he said. “Did he choose to act, or simply did he act and react?” he asked the jury during his opert ing statement. “Jon Burnett shot and killed Gary Peake and Mr. DeGood. He did not murder them. In his mind, he was justified in what he did.” “Jon Burnett was not - and is not - a mur­ derer.” Lynn Burnett, the first to testify, recalled that many things hud been going wrong for her husband in the weeks and months prior to the day when the two men were killed. “I think he was just mad at the worlds because everything was going wrong for him.” she said. Burnett had been to the doctor the previous day for chronic fatigue. The couple had been grappling with medical expenses from when Burnett had fallen down the stairs the previ­ ous March. He had been complaining about the newer, younger employees at his job, who* didn’t seem to take their work seriously. *’ That morning, he had been talking about retiring early. Lynn Burnett recalled. The couple also was anticipating another development that day. Erin Schreppcr was Stoping by to pick up her belongings from their house, and that was a point of contention for the Burnetts. * Schreppcr’s parents, both of whom are See TRIAL, page 10 □ Primary totogs irasmotuws to ©©mto J-Ad Graphics staff Absentee voting played a major role Tuesday’s election in which local clerks reported significantly more absentee ballots had been cast than ever before in prior prima­ ries. The unofficial total for ballots cast Tuesday, according to Clerk Pam Palmer, was 16,094 votes, compared to 12.424 four years ago. One outcome of the primary election will be newcomers: The Barry County board will welcome a couple of new commissioners, no matter what happens in the November general election. A new commissioner will likely be Bruce Campbell of Dowling, who bested Ben McLeod of Assyria Township, 905 to 448, in the District 7 Republican primary’ Tuesday. Campbell faces no opposition in November. “I’m certainly happy to have won.” he said Wednesday. “It’s my first time in the political area and I’m looking forward to getting to know the guys up there and seeing how I can help.” District 2 Commissioner Dan Parker of Middleville stepped down from the county service board and won his bid for thornapple Jordan Brehm of Hastings, who was unop­ posed in the primary. He received 3323 voles Township supervisor Tuesday. \ So that District 2 county board Vacancy sought by Republican Catherine telly and Democrat Cody Hayes - will be decided in November. ; In Tuesday’s election, most Barry*,County townships had al least one competitive race and a few close calls were reported. \ County commission chairwoman Heather Wing, who stepped down from her District 7 to make a bid for the Register of Deedt post, was narrowly defeated by incumbent Barbara Hurless by a vote of 5.193 to 4.777. , I’he register of deeds’ campaign. Mhich dredged up issues dating back years, hade Hurless realize that the townships need her help. “I need to reach out to each oni of them," she said Wednesday. . Wing had no comment Wednesday, but -,he won six of 20 township precincts includfog Assyria Township where she lives, Baltimore, Irving. Maple Grove. Prairieville and Preciitl 2 in Thomapple and Yankee Springs town­ ships. In November, Hurless will lace Democrat See PRIMARY, page 2 Hastings elementary parents hear tentative plans Luke Frunchcck Staff Wrilet Ibis has been a crazy rj(J . the elementary sch[>G *’ The middle sfh<"J,0*" hall was sched­ uled for 6 p.Hi- Wednesday njghl and lh(, high school meeti’i!’ "*1 begin at 6 tonight. Remenap *3* Assistant < helped virtual town hall mcctilu. ‘tt •SujK-rintendenl x,il wvr' The side., eo.de,Ji*> ™"" . him discuss anJ iUl> 'Myriad questions Zoom and was ut,i„lvnll ' tn. P i”-' hum parents. i . ‘ 1 his has been/* ‘ Menge for all of 100 participants. Remcn.U) . * cappvd al ■ us,” Remenap .. C know’ cha1Several frustrated nairi, * Facebook about the,, j„" IV<,I”,1'C!,I’ <I ’>« lunges can * mnit.’* *ng agvnl ,or meeting. '"'"y IO access the schools and ^ll and’ts- 1 hope the Hastings coniniu,u; ‘ scnools come out “We will do this apain . > of this stronger L- inp *u’ j„i; out to parents;' r'-ilch “We just n»bs ' “ 8 UUr Ms’ faces.” close of the hour l,„v „K., (j'! •" ll'>Ixen on a Zoom n.evtil)(i u f. . ' e ipanis " "'m,ted pan,. The meeting was ,|,e fi,,, of uled by district officials 11' “ u;'u ' s l'KU ,|.({ on Goebel said. , k to a , Parents we* <n the 7 questions by usim-the chat ‘ ^nncall. " -r . i the Barry s Barry Township Clerk Debra Kn®h waits wa£ in the hall outside Rebecca pY County ” clerk’? See page 5 office Tuesday night to deliver townsnipu v • �2 — Thursday. August 6. 2020 — Tl»e Hast-ngs Banner PRIMARY, continued from page 1 She will face Democrat Jennifer Meyer in Tuesday Incumbent Drain Commissiooer Jim Dull fended off a challenge from Kyle Staines of Woodland, sweeping that vow in 24 of 24 precincts. '"Seeing as I won, people must w ant to keep fetling things dime.” Dull said Wednesday. ‘ We're looking forwani to the next four years. “Kyle gave it a good shot and tned real hard. He was a good adversary.” Dull received the most votes of all county elected officials who had opposition in the primary, defeating Staines, 6,833 to 3,642. ”1 Was a little depressed to find out Jim Dull won when J woke up this morning,” Stnin. s said Wednesday. “I think it was a pret­ ty decent race for someone who hasn't run for political office before. T plan on tunning again in four years. Hopefully, I’ll do better then.” Dull faces no opposition in November. Incumbent Treasurer Susan VandeCar also won her race handily, defeating challengers .hroin Straube of Hastings and Susan Vlietstra 6'Caledonia. “1 wax really happy with the result,” VandeCar Miid Wednesday, “I was hoping for that result, seeing I’ve been in the position as long as I hav e." VandeCar received 4,612 votes, Straube had 3,333 voles and Vlietstra came in third with 2.J53 votes. . “1 was fairly confident, seeing I was ahead the whole night.” VandeCar said. November. Meyer, a Middleville resident, was unop­ posed in the primary’ and received 3JO9 Notes. Irving Township Clerk Sharon Olson, a proponent of mail-in and absentee voting, said there were a couple of issues with the absentee vote counting in the township hall basement, but they worked through it and had it corrected in a timely manner. More than half of the votes cast in Irving Township were by absentee ballot. Olson said. "We weren’t the last ones in. but we weren't the first ones done,” Olson said of getting her township’s results to Palmer at the clerk’s office in Hastings Tuesday evening. Olson did get to chat with the state Bureau of Elections after questions arose about town­ ship supervisor candidate Tim Ross setting up a tent on the township hall property on the comer of Wcxxl School Road and Wing Road during the vote Tuesday. Concerns went to the county clerk and drew' a visit from the Barry County Sheriff’s Department, too. Olson measured for herself that Ross’ tent was more than 100 feet from the door of the polling place - and even more than 100 feel from the ramp leading up to the door. “Challengers cannot campaign, distribute literature or display any campaign material in the polls or within 100 feet of any doorway II Near wait outside the clerk s v nLo c 7o/nshiP c,erk Janice Lippert, on left, and township voter registration clerk Nancy officeUoAh^rTurn to voterS' bal,OtS Tuesday night’(Photos by Rebecca pierce) used by vo,crs t<> enter^KTa'h.es polling place is located™ sld'cs Managing Your £,CCU°,n Day lilectionlnspeetorxl^^-M3!’1'1*.1Other than that draw. O'.50" Sai'd-'*'*?Sa fairly smooth Election IM,n lur ,0"nshlPDespite the high-p^ Can’pa.,8n Ross was bested by ^u"’bd"1 “*P Supervisor Jamie R by 34 ’ 353 to 325) in the Republican primary. Across the county. pr®P°?'S lor ?rC CqU‘P' inent. law enforcement.mnd ccmc- to pass that to get full funding from the state,” tery maintenance and dust control passed. Superintendent Kyle Corlett said. Tm just Most of the proposals were requests for super thankful that people took the time to fill renewals, but some townships asked for out absentee ballots and go to the polls to increases and at least one, in Rutland Charier ” Yankee Springs Township Township, passed a new levy for public road support Of allschools. the results, maintenance that will generate SI584100 in saw’ the most change: The self-dubbed “Team the first year. Yankee Springs” defeated an incumbent trust­ A non-homestead operating millage renew­ ee and supervisor, filled the treasurer and al for 18.0052 mills for Delton Kellogg clerk positions - and celebrated the victory Schools was approved. 1,852 to 1,097. It was a critical victory for the district. together. ‘That’s our operating millage so we needed Local etectfon officials report smooth f absentee ballots Greg Chandler ShiffWriter primary,tfcction presented new challenges for local<*rks since many more voters cast their voiding absentee ballots. In the city ot fishes..60 percent of the 1.616 voters wh^rYr ballots in the primary’, 977. did so vi.yjsentvc ballot - either by mailing it in erfklivcring it by hand to the voting site. 7‘ A three member counting board spent nine hours, from 9iun. to b p m . going through the absented ballots and entering the information /ito a tabulator that had been pros ided to the city by the Barn County clerk’s officZcity Clerk Jane Saurman said. Saunnaniaid giving more voters the option 4T(gam . Holly Leinaar, a court services specialist I, accepts one of the township’s ballot pack­ ets to start the process of securing the vote once the ballots are delivered. to vote absentee and getting information out to the community on that availability turned out to be positive. “We cut our [in-person voting) numbers way down, due to our proactive information on gening everybody signed up for our AV ballots.” During the 2016 primary, the city clerk’s office received fewer than 50 absentee ballot requests, she said. 1'he city had received a federal grant to purchase a tabulator to count absentee ballots, but did not receive the device in lime to be tested and used for Tuesday’s election. So city officials requested and received permission from (he county clerk to use one of the county's backup tabulators, Saurman said. Other municipalities in county also saw strong numbers of .absentee voters. In Yankee Springs Township, which experienced a contentious race for township board seats, 939 voters cast absentee ballots, making up 55 percent of the 1,715 total votes cast, Township Treasurer Alice Jansma said. In Thomapple Township, which had a close race for supervisor. 1,066 absentee ballots were submitted, accounting for 53 percent of the 2,004 total votes cast, township Clerk Cindy Willshire said. Saurman said, while the absentee counting process went smoothly Tuesday, she likely will be looking for additional help for the November general election. “We’re probably going to have to add a fourth person,” she said. Yankee Springs’ sweeps township races seek re-election after 24 years on the board. . Greg Chandler Deb Mousseau ran unopposed for town­ I Staff Writer ship treasurer, and is expected to replace ThqYankee Springs Township board will have 3much different look by the end of this incumbent Alice Jansma, who did not seek another term for her office. year. / “Obviously, the township was ready for a A date of candidates that dubbed itself “Tean Yankee Springs” swept all five seats change,” Heethuis said at a post-election on [he township board in Tuesday’s gathering at Knowles’ house. “We went doorRcpblican primarv. defeating two incum- to-door on Long Lake, Barlow Lake, Payne Lake and Gun Lake. We heard that from ben. board members in the process. They are expected to take office in late people. We heard that it’s time for change.” Knowles, who will be the only incumbent November since they have no Democratic or to remain on the board when the new term ot^er parly opposition. In the supervisor’s race, retired Delton begins in December, called the outcome K/llogg teacher and coach Rob Heethuis “fantastic.” “The community has spoken, and I think ojsted two-term incumbent Mark Englerth. it’s great. I’m ecstatic that the community capturing 825 votes to Englerth’s 519. ■ In the race for the two trustee seals, incum­ knows what’s going on and has made their bent Larry Knowles and newcomer Dave decision,” he said. Knowles has been al the forefront of some VanHouten were victorious, while incumbent Shanon Vandenberg was denied a second of the township’s hot-button issues, most term on the board. Vanhouten received 825 notably whether the township should proceed with renovation and expansion of the town­ votes, Know les 722 and Vandenberg 561. In the township clerk race, Mike ship hall. He downplayed any notion of tak­ Cunningham defeated Ron Hei,man 784' ing on a leadership role on the board based 482. Cunningham* is expected to replace on his experience, other than perhaps on current clerk Janice Lip^- who did no1 procedure. “There is no leader other than Rob. He has definitely brought this team together, and he’s been excellent at getting input from all of us. It’s been awesome,” Knowles said. Englerth. who was first elected supervisor in 2012 and narrowly won re-election in 2016, was gracious in defeat. “I have to respect the voice of the citizens of the township.” he said. “That’s who we w'ork for.” Heilman, who has worked closely with Englerth on projects such as the veterans memorial, echoed those sentiments. “The people have spoken that they want change, and we’ll support that,” he said. Heethuis and other newly elected candi­ dates plan to take advantage of clinics offered through the Michigan Tow nships Association for incoming board members to help them' prepare for their new offices. “We’ll go through some education,” Heethuis said. “We’ll continue to monitor what's going on in the township, and we'll be ready to hit the road running and move things forward with the things that haven’t moved forward in the past.” Broadband a priority for incoming Thnrnaopie Township supervisor I H■ ■ 10 W® 1^ Chandk’1’ likely be the new township ' county s most popul d|()«.>>lHPo Ginumssioner D.,n won u". n •<nn'y Thomapple esday s RepuW1C;ll rin)3i),l . Sc|laefcr Townslnp super,Hot Lfciltin« b"C ’ Here, Leinaar extracts the vote totals. remly <he Campground. parllcr JoC ,,t)l The supervisor’s race was the only contest­ Democratic opposition in November. “I’m looking forward to it,” Parker said of the new role. “We have a great group to work with, and I think they’ll be open to some new [ideas]." The current township supervisor, Mike Bremer, did not seek re-election because he is moving out of the township. Parker, 72, said he will work with board members on trying to find areas where the township can save money. He also plans to continue to campaign for greater access to broadband technology, a cause he has cham­ pioned as a member of the county board. “Thai’s got to be one of our lop priorities,” he said. “We’re getting some action on it.” ed race in the primary election. Clerk Cindy Willshire, Treasurer Deb Buckowing and trustees Curt Campbell, Ross DeMaagd and Sandy Rairigh ran unopposed. One trustee position will need to be filled by appointment because not enough candidates filed to run. Township voters easily approved a renewal of the millage for Thornapple Township Emergency Services. The 1.7169-mill renew­ al. which will be in effect for four years through 2023, will go for fire protection and emergency services, as well us the purchase of fire and emergency equipment. The measure passed, 1,151 to 469. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. August 6, 2020 — Page 3 Knrnary election result5’ township by township 235 1.07iSt"cl 1 - Howard R. Gibson (incumbent) Republican, ^strict 2 - (ihcumbent), Republican, IL MiehtfcJ County board Earl M- VV>^n ( ^nt), Republican, 247 Rqwhl^M^8'1 District 4 ~ V'1'"1 Jackwn <*«”,,,,I,bCnbR Tb!!11’1"' H09 Rich Burtts, XXr.k< B<?" C’cigcr (incumbent). Republican. 1,085 Ssirie! / 1351 Clerk - Anita S. (incn J19’ Republican, 507 Treasurer - Jcnee S- P1*01 P* CUml*nt), Democrat, 171 Trustee (four scats) vfcNallv r Timothy 8- ‘ Uncumbcnt), Republican; Vivian Lee Conner (incumbent), Republican, 6 district 7 - Bruce J, GaniI(bell. Republican, 905 Bill Wet^l (*r pernoer^’ Republican ;353 Ben McLeod. Republican. 448________ __ Scott County offices H°pCk°RllShiP 613 Clerk - Mel Risner (incumbent), Republican, 619 Treasurer - Michelle Ritchie (incumbent), Republican, 605 Trustee (two seats) Jake Bronson. Republican, 166 Phillip Joseph. Republican, 110 Chad Kraai, Republican, 316 Jodi L. Patrick, Republican, 283 Linda Ribble (incumbent), Republican, 302 Fire equipment millage renewal. The township is asking to levy up to 0.75 mills, or $0.75 per $ 1.000, from 2022 to 2026. If approved, the levy would bring in $120,121 in the first year. Yes: 673 No: 191 o u£?unty (-*crk - Pam Palmer (incumbent). Republican, Prairieville Township >-o72 Drain Commissioner- Clerk - Deborah Jackson *'”‘^,'”'}<!nt), Republican, 518 Treasurer - Jolene Pay"* Jim Dull (incumbent), Republican, 6333 Jordan Brehm, Democrat, 3323 Barbara I). Hurless (incumbent). Republican, Road improvement millng*- renewal and road repair, maintenance an would generate an estimated $ - * Republican, Levy currently at 0.944 mills, proposal would restore the tax to original voted levy of 1 mill ior tQur years through 2023 - 0.75 mills for fire protection and 0.25 mills for cemetery maintenance. Susan Vlietslra, Republican. 2,153 Townships Ted DeVries, Republican, 393 Mark D. Doster, Republican, 298 . Richard L. Van Niman (incumbent), Republican, : 235 Rutland Township • Supervisor - Larry Watson (incumbent), Republican, 621 < Clerk - Robin Hawthorne (incumbent), Republican, 639 '! Fire protection and cemetery millage renewal and increase. 4,614 Treasurer - Sandra Greenfield (incumbent), Republican. 623 Trustee (four seats) ‘ Brenda Bellmore (incumbent), Republican, 320.; **• The levy would generate an estimated $137,765 during its first Assyria Township Supervisor - Mike Timmons (incumbent). Republican. 163 Sandra L. Janies (incumbent), Republican, 425;’ Eric Miller, Republican, 307 X; Irving Township Annette J. Terry (incumbent). Republican, 230 Treasurer - Terry Ryder-Stephens (incumbent). Democrat, Supervisor - Jamie R. Knight (incumbent). Republican, 86 359 Trustee (two Republican, 345 seats) - James D. Miller (incumbent), Tim Ross, Republican, 325 Clerk - Sharon Olson (incumbent), Republican, 622 Treasurer - Alesse Cross, Democrat, 161 Baltimore Township Supervisor - Chad VanSvckle (incumbent). Republican, 280 ’ Trustee (two seats) Dean Bass (incumbent), Republican, 296 Mike Buehler (incumbent), Republican, 487 Clerk-? Penelope Ypma (incumbent). Democrat, 75 Treasurer - Melissa VanSvckle (incumbent),-Republican, 275 z Republican Rhonda L. VanPolen, Republican, 294 A renewal for fire protection of 1A566 mills, $ 1.5 per $ 1.000. Trustee (two seats) - Michael Altoft (incumbent), no party affiliation, and will face primary winners in November: /Karon VanSyckle, Republican, 206, and Gerard Ypma, Republican, 192 ’ for six years, from 2021 to 2026. If approved, lhe lew is expected to bring in $199,039 in the first year. The funds are for the Freeport Rural Fire Association, BlkCH (Baltimore, Irving, Rutland, Carlton, and Hastings) Rural Fire Department/and ° Thomapple Township Emergency Servins or other entities Barry Township pursuant to contracts for fire protection services within Irving Township. \ Supervisor - Wesley Kahler (incumbent), Republican, 521. Rodney Dye, no party affiliation, will face Kahler in November. Yes: 562 No: 204 \ Treasurer - Michele Dye, Republican. 170 Johnstown Township Lee A. Campbell (incumbent), Republican; 313 Roy Thunder. Republican, 24i Clerk - Sheri M. Babcock (incumbent),Republican, 564 Treasurer - Karmen Nickerson (incumbent), Republican, 579 Ricky Lawrence, Republican, 212 first year. Yes: 627 Trustee (two seats) - A police millage renewal of 2 mills of taxable value, or $2 per $1,000, until 2023. The levy is expected to raise $260,000 in the first year. Yes: 572 acquisition, operation and maintenance of fire protection apparatus and equipment, including fire and rescue vehicles for the township. The levy would generate about $84845 in its first __________________ Maple Grove Township Supervisor - Brad Carpenter (incumbent). Republican, Supervisor - Jeff Butler (incumbent), Republican, 214 Clerk - Holly Carpenter, Republican, 222 Clerk - Amanda Brown (incumbent). Republican, 431 Treasurer - Ginger Cole (incumbent), Republican, 221 Treasurer - Terri Geiger (incumbent). Republican, 432 Trustee (twoseats)# Larry Hook (incumbent), Republican, 147 Doug Westendorp (incumbent), Republican, Trustee (two seals) Scott Bond, Republican, 221 Cary Smith (incumbent). Republican. 219 Garv VandeCar (incumbent). Republican, 265 ; • Thornapple Township Supervisor Eric Schaefer. Republican. 568 Dan Parker, Republican, 673 Cindv Willshire (incumbent), Clerk - •; < Republican 1,191 K. Treasurer - Debra Buckowing (incumbents Republican, 1,178 p Trustee (four seats) Curtis Campbell (incumbent), Republican, 888' Ross DeMaagd (incumbent), Republican, 877 p Sandra L. Rairigh (incumbent), Republican^ S * years through 2023, for providing fire protection and emergency services in lhe township and funding lhe purchase of fire and emergency equipment. The levy would generate an estimated $578,000 in its first year. J No: 469 Woodland Township - Jeffrey S. MacKenzie (incumbent), . Republican, 320 Clerk - Nancy Stanton (incumbent), Republican, 317 Treasurer-Shawn K. Durkee (incumbent), Republican,’ 333 Trustee -Mikel Slater, Republican, 309. Gabriel Steward (incumbent), no party affiliation, will be on the Nov. 3 ballot. < ‘ No: 175 Carlton Township * . are expected to total $158.814.25 in the first year. Yes: 489 No: 478 Supervisor year. Yes: 589 No: 276 New request for public road maintenance millage. The township is asking to levy 1 mill, $1 per $1,000, of taxable value • from 2020 to 2024. The funds would be used for road repairs and; Jeffrey T. Warren (incumbent), Republican, 435 Fire protection apparatus and equipment millage renewal of 0.7882 mills for four years through 2023, to provide for the No: 221 J Yes: 1,151 Deana M, Powell (incumbent),Republican, 454 Fire millage renewal of 2 mills of taxable value, or $2 per SI ,000, until 2023.The levy is expected to raise $260,000 in the ; Marlin Walters (incumbent), Republican, 220 Emergency services millage renewal of 1.7169 mills for four* Supervisor - Barbara J. Earl (incumbebt), Republican, 379 Trustee (two seats) Barry Bower, Republican: 372 Matt Spencer (incumbent), Republican, 390 842 Clerk - Debra Knight (incumbent), Republican, 556 Ingrid Pagano, Republican, 92 Judith E. Wooer (incumbent). Republican, 371 < Gene D. Hall, Republican, 365 year. Yes: 598 No: 222 Thomas J. Wing, Republican, 218 Clerk -Tandra S. Angus. Republican, 151 . expenses. The levy 5 during its first year. Yes: 573 No: 246 Justin Straube. Republican, 3,333 341 Clerk - Rod Goebel (incumbent), Republican, 483 Treasurer - Judy Pence (incumbent), Republican, 471 Trustee (two seats) - increase. Levy our years through 2023, for original voted levy of 1 null Heather L. Wing. Republican. 4,777 Sheriff- Dar Leaf (incumbent), Republican, 10,061 Surveyor - Brian Reynolds (incumbent). Republican. 9539 Treasurer -Jennifer Meyer, Democrat, 3309 (incumbent). ’ currently at 0.944 mills. Pf°P°sal Would restore the tax to 5,193 VandeCar 336 Wendee J. Wendt. Repute 223 Register of Deeds - Susan ®ent), Republican, 521 Trustee (two seats) . ,. David MesseWK uncu^ent), R bH Matt Peake (inc“mbeni,R ^ Kyle Staines. Republican, 3,(>42 Prosecutor - Julie Nakfoor Pratt (incumbent), Republican, 9367 Mark A. Doster, Republican, 228 Jim Stoneburner (incumbent), Republican, ’ 161 Arlene Tonkin Supervisor - Yankee Springs Township Supervisor­ Mark W. Englerth (incumbent). Republican, 519 Rob Heethuis, Republican, 825 'w 1 1r r - i ; r • Michael Scott Cunningham, Republican, 784 Ron Heilman, Republican, 482 Treasurer - Debra L. Mousseau, Republican, 1,193 Trustee (,"J^^)Know|cs (incumbent), Republican, 722 ; -J Shanon VandenBerg (incumbent). Republican, 561 Dave VanHouten, Republican, 825 renewal and increase. I he levy is • Renewal of dust control antJj°4^ Maintenance millage. The ^IvTtT^lS mills: the proP°s:l1 wil1 res,ore the ,ax 10 the curren y a -4925 nulls, thr0Ui?h 2()23 (<) township is asking to levy I 1111 ta*able value, or $1 per 51,000, until 2023. If appruv’ed’ He levy would bring in $45,000 ongma v<>>c> wj(hin lhe township, Hie levy is expected provide fire proi$117,000 in its first jear.oi which a in the first year. io generate an u . Yes: 201 r,irc Association, Wood|ilnd No: 101 from wi IO '’0’5.The distriet is also asking for an increase of Kills $05 of $1.(XX). of taxable value. In January. Eire and ambulance eqniP11^.11/ mjllage renewal. The township Superintendent Kyle Corlett said the amount the school receives ? is decreased every year by inflation so. every five years, they . fXSX-tSSa'*1*......... ( Yes: 447 N<>: 147 -------- ------------------------------ -— Castleton 1 ownship r'iM.rvI L Hartwell (incumbent), Republican, Supervisor - entry • Treasurer - J°y r>‘ Trustee (two seats) - Delton Kellogg School District millag Non homestead operating millage renewal ior Delton Kellogg; Non-homcs! i mi|is, §18.0052 per $1 .(XX) of schools, not to excueu ik taxable value on all non-homestead properties and busmesses ;; is asking to levy 1 mill of <a' |\ k Uc or’per $1,000, until 2023. If approved, the lev)' *oU bnn8 in $45,000 in rhe first approved, the funds raised tn the first year are expected to total year. Yes: 250 S3.174.000. Yes: 1352 No: 1,097 No: 52 Supervisor - Thomas J' "k (incumbent), Republican, 2 �Page 4 — Thursday, August 6. 2020 — The Hastings Ban << bid you see Necessity inspires invention i Parking lot i performances , Members of the Trojans’ color ; guard practice with their flags in the • parking lot at Thornapple Kellogg : High School Wednesday morning during the two-week band camp in ; Middleville. Sections of the band • were spread across lhe school • campus to keep a safe social distance and to limit group size ■ while they work on their skills. (Photo • by Brett Bremer) do . fnr a demand that was increasing daily, P v /.rfnrt. I,,‘ire, warlike effort. Ford and GM retooled i..ued plants «> manufacture tens of thouof ventilators. Both conipamej pro­ duction lines were sidelined due to the pan­ dem c so both companies stepped up m an effort to take part in a historic redeployment of their factories and workers. Trump’s executive order m early May to finance domestic health-care manufacturing needed to respond to the coronavirus crisis E >^me L welcome assistance. Across the . yoU remember? NaturaS cdfebora&ra Reminder Aug. 8. 1989 Representatives from the Hastings FFA. Barry Soil and Water Conservation District. Barry County 4-H. Michigan Youth Corps and Mid-Counties Consortium gather at the site of the future nature area on Norris Read Pictured (frorh^t) are Gerald Hyatt of the .Youth Corps, Sue Ruggles, deputy director of operations of the Barry County office of Mid-Counyes Consortium, which oversees Youth Corps workers; Kathy Hyatt. Youth Corps; Bob Casey, soil and water conservation di/t/ict board member who remembers planting trees on the site many years ago; Dave Keeler, Youth Corps supervisor. Carl Fedava and Pat Fedewa, both of 4-H; Sam Schroeder, administrative assistant for the conservation district; Mike Smith, MECP technician; Matt Henion FFA; Jason Larabee, FFA; Ed Domke, FFA advisor; Brian Gibson. FFA; and Myra Fede’ Have you While many annual events are being canceled, one Sunfield-area resident is working to continue at least a part of the Sunfield Fanners Picnic. DeAnna Clark is try ing to give residents of that community a chance to show their talents or crafts. 'The annual Picnic includes an open-class craft event, where residents display an. quilts, woodwork or even canned goods, vying for the ultimate award: .A Best of Show ribbon. She’s passionate about lhe annual festival and hopes to provide that creative outlet for local residents. A 1982 Charlotte High School graduate, lhe former DeAnna Hancock still has a Charlotte address, but her home -- on a 131/:acre piece of property that has been in her husband’s family since 1864 - is not far from Sunfield, h’s also within lhe Lake wood school district, from which her sons, Aaron and Ryan, graduated in 2009 and 2012. Clark, now 56,joined the Sunfield Fanners Picnic board in 2005 and took over the open­ class show in 2007. “I loved attending the festival and was involved through other groups I was associated with and was friends with many of the current Ixiard members.” she said ot her initial involvement. She’s been the board secretary lor all but one year “because this type of organizational skill is one ol my passions,” Clark said. She also selves as lhe public relations coordinator for the event. ”... and [IJ love banging out in Sunfield, meeting new friends and old during lhe third full weekend of August each year,” she said. Clark attended Lansing Community College, first earning an associate degree in accounting and later an associate degree in travel and tourism. She eventually became a legal secretary before starting a 30-year, seven-month career with the state. She and her husband. Rod. who worked for the Michigan Department of Corrections, were high school sweethearts, and they both retired from their stale jobs June 1. 2019. That day marked the beginning ot (he next chapter in their lives, which includes traveling arid a new travel trailer, she aid. Regardless of the chapter, volunteering is part of her life story. She taught Sunday school for nearly 20 year’-. vvas active in the lh>y Scouts program for about 16 years, was I he RcstlAs” is right up there as I started watching/l in 1975 with my grandma who has beentone since 1990. Hobbles: Camping, traveling, photognphy. scrapbooking, cross-stitching Persms I most admire: my parents, Pat (F.ngleVand Ken Hancock, of Mulliken Bool I’d recommend: “Bestseller by Christopher Knight Favijiite teacher: Mr. James Ferrier. Charlitte High School, freshmen through seniof year We are still friends to this day. Person I’d most like to niect (a,ivc or deaij: Elvis Ifl could have any superpower, it would be: To snap my fingers and the housework wojld be done instantly. destination: Favorite vacation Milligan’s Upper Peninsula t u Something about me most people don t Uow: I like t0 dabb|e wi(h genealogy. Greatest song cver v^ritten: * ^Tite the Sbngx" by Barry Manilow , What rd tell h. h school graduate: DeAnna Clark heinemlxT to always do )our besl- trCW when, as you would like «’bc “nJ secretary of the Sunfield Elementary parents jou will be successful in VOW°"n Wa>'' group and soccer team photographei tor Best gift ever rewixed: Loving paren‘S’ many years, was well. ;t’reat husband and lw„ wonderful •Tm happiest when rnl giving (1| mvsclf l avonte dinner: Shriu’P 1,1 d *b she said of her community contributions. . fettuccini ••Many of my best friends came through ms volunteer opportunities.” •weMght of t(xlay.s P adul(S. behevc Many groups or organizations < • need the world would be ;i\nuJi better place. volunteers, she said. Volunteer bring their; Greatest president Ronald Reagan own individual skill sets that otten save "hen I grow Up . wiint to be: able to money for the groups, Bui her philosophy travel whenever 1 w* wherever I want. goes a little further. “I feel that anyone who v an ........................................................... time job. be happy in a marriage raise successful children and siVe of vou^eli will "i>atl’dduiflu ,ht.|otlrtrv:helPn,y go far in life " said. ' h afc, „u. 'miitedhue family <■ On m meet people that I might not )llivc otherwise Favorite sck ’'hv: fal1 met.” because of 11,..°”.anl* ",Jcr.»*wrcs For her many contribution-, to hoot. church and community. DeAnna ( lark >• this / h Week th leavC>’, peri(tti who vveek’> Banner Blight Light. the ll(,,‘ner prO>i,ln, wn know ? i^e .•/ Favorite movie: “Hidden Figures” T; Is/.« 'he Bist advice ever rmicvd; I ive, laugh. , I/.; I,'"1eiher love, and never go to b.-.l angry. nut' K“"mr' ' U /t (i ''' x\U <•' First job: McDonald’s in Charlotte Favorite TV program: -Survivoi” never missed a season, but •’The y(>un,» ;i rhe “Kodak Moment” may be back. Light years after Tiling for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, luistman Kodak, the company that once sold 90 percent of camera film and 85 percent of all handheld cameras, may have gotten the equivalent of a picture retake from the federal government last week. " An innovative way to help a company reinvent itsclt while, at the same time, solv­ ing a problem here at home was announced by President Trump who. for the 33rd time, used the Defense Production Act, this time to offer Kodak a $765 million federal gov­ ernment loan for development of the chem­ ical ingredients needed to produce generic drugs. On the surface, it appears to be an inventive way to bring back to America some of the drug production - and jobs that have been shipped overseas in recent years. Kodak plans to establish a new division. Kodak Pharmaceuticals, which will focus on producing the chemical ingredients need­ ed to manufacture generic drugs. The com­ pany expects the project, in lhe beginning, to create about 350 jobs at its Rochester. NA., and St. Paul. Minn., locations. Currently, the vast majority of active ingredients for prescription drugs come from China and India, with China account­ ing lor more than two-thirds of the total. So. if that supply chain is disrupted, as hap­ pened earlier this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it could severely affect America’s access to many needed drugs. “We are truly doing this to help tighten and fix lhe supply chain of pharmaceuticals in America.” Kodak Executive Chairman Jim Continenza said “We have more than 130 years of experience in making chemi­ cals, which the company has used to make film and other products.” Kodak also has a history of making drugs, having actually owned a company from 1988 to 1994 called Sterling Winthrop that produced over-the-counter drugs, such as aspirin. Kodak plans to make two types of chemicals needed to formulate pills and tablets, known as the key starting materials and refined substances in active pharmaceu­ tical products. In recent years, the company had been making key starting materials for a few pharmaceutical companies, but. with the support announced.1 last week, from the federal government, jt aims tojanip up pro­ duction with plaiB'tti fill morolimit 25.percent of the nation’s needs. For years, we’ve accepted lhe fact that industries were leaving the U.S. in an effort to find cheaper labor and operate under fewer government regulations. When COVID-19 hit. our nation suddenly realized that much of the medicine and other medical supplies needed to fight off the virus were being produced in China, the country where lhe disease began. That was not an urgent concern until the virus appeared in our country and became such an uncontrolled threat that we had to close down and kill one of the strongest economies we’ve ever known. In an effort to deal with the virus, we tragically came to understand that large sup­ plies of dnigs, personal protective equip­ ment and other medical supplies and equip­ ment, such as virus testing materials, would be necessary- to control the spread of the virus. Over the years, we’ve allowed sup­ plies to dwindle and production of supplies to move offshore, so we were left in a dan­ gerous situation that required immediate attention. Even though companies across the coun­ try’ took on the challenge of retooling in an effort to meet the need, it takes time to pre- country, companies stepped up or retooled the r product lines to fill the ever-growing need for medical supplies, persona protec­ tion equipment and more. Presently more than 20 companies, a mix of legacy drug manufacturers and small startups, are work­ ing on coronavirus treatments or vaccines to fight off the virus, which has now s'ckened more than 4.X million people and killed more than 150.000 in the U.S. News like last week’s loan to Kodak is welcome because it’s a start in returning production to the U.S. and will revitalize communities with jobs that fuel the econo­ my. The Kodak part of the story was espe­ cially interesting to me because my compa­ ny has been purchasing Kodak products since its beginning. Kodak has always been a major manufacturer of products tor the printing industry, and I can remember as a child seeing the bright yellow Checker Motors car pul! up in our driveway with all kinds of yellow boxes filled with film and plates and ail the necessary chemicals. Our supplier. Crescent Camera Shop in Kalamazoo, used Checker cars to haul the film and materials due to the heavy weight of lhe items. Once the boxes were emptied, they worked perfectly for toys and all kinds of storage needs. We still have hundreds of yellow Kodak boxes around the plant that we’ve collected over the years. And even though we don’t use film anymore, we still use plates that come on a skid with the wellknown Kodak label on the outside. The plates are processed on a highly sophisticat­ ed piece of Kodak equipment that uses lasers to expose lhe images. The new pro­ cess is chemical-free, protecting lhe envi­ ronment from any caustic chemicals, and we recycle lhe plates. Last week’s announcement is good news for an American company that has been around since 1888,qs makers of film, chem­ icals, paper and cameras. But, due to digital cameras and cellphones and all the changes we’ve seen in the photo and printing indus­ try'. the company ended up in bankruptcy 2012 with the intention to downsize and sell off part of the company to survive. With the new agreement. Kodak could come back stronger than ever - known for its pharmaceutical products - but. more importantly, it could regain its place as an American industrial giant. . As the slogan lhe company once used to market its cameras said. Kodak may again soon be able to say, ’’You push the button, we’ll do the rest.’’ Fred Jacobs. CEO, J-Ad Graphics Inc. Currently, the vast majority of active ingredients for prescription drugs come from China and India, with China accounting for more than two-thirds of the total. So, if that supply chain is disrupted, as happened earlier this year due to the CO VID-19 pandemic, it could severely affectAmerica's access to many needed drugs. The Hastings Banner Denoted to the Interests of Barry County since 1856 Pubi $hed by. Hastings Banner, Inc, A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-519? Nows and press releases: news@j-ad(jraphics. com • Advertisin'} adw, ■„ <n r. . ’ ____________________ v' u^vJ'-mgraph!cs.com Frederic Jacobs Publisher & CEO 8 30 a w io 5.00 p.m. Hank Schuuring CFO Scott Ommen Ty Greenfield Mike Gilmore Innni v ,C° l!C0n ^eStOfl Jennie Yonker • NEWSROOM• Rebecca Pierce (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer (Sports Editor) Greg Chandler Taylor Owens _________ ^55 per year elsewhere POSTMASrEt^^ PO. tea b eony CUis PoMage P lid dlHawrg.. M! 4305a ' w’ �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 6. 2020 — Page 5 • continued from page 1 . Onc of lhe firxr l>ons asked bv ’ an^ ,nost frequent, quessuch as type'of<rcnts was related to masks, wearing masks mas* and requirements for Face coverinoc staff member S re9uircd at all times for students and s,xlh through 12th grade fifth grade stiH?^ Sa’d< Preschool through masks while in arc not rc9ui,etl ,0 wcar may if tbev m1 K cl*Mroom or at recess but R^ap^,Odoso’ . learning. ••The course is more self-paced and based on course completion.” he added. “If it gets to a_Mud fn' ** is von| --------- !rr .and.......... '**"* ’niYydone wiih 5 percent of a course, the teacher■ mentor may step in and try to help out.” To schedule online classes, parents and students will have to meet with school staff for an m-person meeting. With school starting Aug. 24. Goebel said ing their child parcnls lo consider provid­ district administrators need to know parents’ kids will <n l^onalizcd masks so the plans for their children, whether online or If a fam lCnC°Uragc<1 lo kceP wear thcm’ in-person learning. will be avJinki^1?01 Providc a niask’ some The deadline tor parents to choose an considered * C* 1e sa’d* pace sh’c,ds are t,ot option is Friday. Aug. 14. Goebel snid the without a d^,”C“p,abIe allcrnfttive 10 a mask deadline will allow administrators time to If doctor s note. make staffing decisions. metti^n^^0111 Canno1 wear a mask due to a Class sizes will depend on the number of stud^m .,s;sue’ Remenap recommended the online enrollments, he said. *,n On^nc learning option. Normally, in-person classes in the district ir.)rl • ' , addresscd the district’s online have between 23 and 2(> students, Remenap 1 ng plan for the ujKoming school year, said. ten-Ok 4 P‘m’ T^csday» 385 kindergarAs of 1 uesday. not enough students were , grade students were enrolled in enrolled in online schooling to guarantee 6 onhne learning. Goebel said. feet of social distancing can be maintained , .e. district's online schooling will be between students, he added. ministered through Edgenuity. an online If a family begins to feel uncomfortable arning program. A teacher mentor from with online learning, Goebel said school staff astmgs will track the progress of each stu­ will work with the family to figure out the nt learning online. However, teachers run­ best solution. ning the program arc not Hastings staff. A May survey showed that an overwhelm­ Goebel said. ing majority of parents want to get their kids Administrators arc still working through in school, Remenap said. now a 100 percent online class load will look. “We want to return to school as normal, Students enrolled in online learning will not safe, practical and feasible as possible,” be required to sit at a computer all day during Remenap said. normal school hours, Goebel said. A student However, several changes will be made to workbook is for those partaking in online the normal school day. he said One pare"'will mk. "Student I""1 ,aid. adding th '!]c C!lfeteria.” "ill lx- nL ,Wlulc s1"dents are e:.ti'>8’5jc;II1. hk‘o get into the classroom5 . our kids to re . "Wedon’ll"'°in one 'hkc being l>elJ..capl'enaP saidf“r lhe whole day." R* A. required lo . . Students will । distant . 1 *"h ,heir classmates eating lunch ° thc bcM ot their ability \ nvrn c|a ’ Art. music ^ jth mX. t'!l w,n. bc offered in lx'f^.nl classed ' ^nemg. Remenap «dd’^ittin^* '°u,‘1 '-'d outdoors, wcathc I But large form u 1n'";i:mblieswill not h‘>PPc",n.1itentom^’ Events like kmd ?. ndup and open houses will conl"1. o..mCnan very dif‘ Cerent from normal-K men psa,d. Goebel said son1 ‘ s could happen Students will find 01,1 w^° their teachers arc soon, he added. Onc parent asked i * student could gel into a building f°r a tou ,* “If a student is »ieW; should! con­ tact central office or a l” nig principal for a building lour,” Remenap said. Multiple parents asked about the district protocols if a parent, student or staff member tests positive for COVID-19. In the event of a positive COVID-19 test, communication will be sent home to families. Remenap said. Additional absences will be provided to students for COV1I). 19-rclated issues. However, a single case won’t necessarily lead to the full class quarantining, Remenap said. If a positive test occurs, each instance will lx? handled on n case-by-case basis. “If kids are sick, please keep them home,” Remenap said. “If your son or daughter gets ill at school, they have to go home.” But the district will not necessarily notify parents if a student goes home ill with symp­ toms of COVID-19. he added. “It could be a cold, a flu - it could bc any thing,” Remenap said. “If they have a low grade fever that’s gone within 24 hours, the} can come back to school.” Students who go home with symptoms of COVID-19 are not required to take a test or stay home for a specific number uf days, he added. “There are still loo many unknowns." Remenap said. "This is a very fluid situation, and things could change tomorrow. We appre­ ciate your flexibility and patience while we go through this together.” What would it take? To the editor: I see many more Trump signs in Barry County than I do Biden signs. I wonder what it would lake lo cause a Trump supporter not to vote for the current president. To me. it seems that people who vole for a second term for Mr. Trump are OK with the president not addressing Russia’s Ixiunty on U.S. troops paid to Afghanistan and ISIS fighters; lhe president first ignoring warnings of, and then redirecting blame for, how COVID-19 would turn this nation on its ear. both from a public-health perspective and an economic perspective; lhe president bully­ ing anyone who disagrees with him and removing that person from his or her duties, whether lhe |>erson is a careered public ser­ vant or an apfxuntee taking the place of some­ one recently sacked; the president sending uninvited federal “police” to demonstrate his METAL ROOF PRICING ESTIMATE! [s the TRUE COST . (Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks’’ will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire" letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. J (jCnow Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature jasss&ssa La“"3' u“ «“■ State Senator Dr. John Bizon P 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-34/ mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon. P.O. Box |; SenJBIzon@Senato.Michtaannov US Lansing M| 48909 "gan.gov. U.S. , us House of Representatives Su” 4“' a,a"a RaDifc phone (616) 451-8383. For Details Visit: AmericanMetalRoofs.com/PRlCE BARRY COUNTY NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR MICHIGAN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FUNDING FOR EMER­ GENCY PROGRAM income funding BARRY COUNTY will conduct a public hearing on August 25. 2020 at 9:00am m the Leason Sharpe Hall located in tho Barry Corr.rriunity Enrichment Center, 231 S. Broad­ way, Hastings, Ml 49058 for the purpose of affording citi­ zens an opportunlly to submit comments on the proposed Homeowner Emergency Program funde-J with Program Income received into the County. BARRY COUNTY proposes to use $65 288.39 CDBG funds to provde emergenCy repairs to homeowners in Barry County 'V‘/A J?..lr]comes are at or below 80% of Area Median Income I ""i w the County per HUD regulations. Zero persons w displaced as a result of the proposed activities, an Mcnr classified as emergency conditions by Mt^/CDBG guidelines. Further inform^iofi. including Q CQpy Qf |he Coun. ty Emergency “ P lr Program Guidelines, is available for review upon reCJ. ? • To inspect tho documents, please contact Mar’iyn . bat 734-341-1866, or you may review them in , nL e pounty Clerk’s office at 220 West State Streel. na gs, Ml 49058. Comments may be sub­ mitted in wrl?n?firft attention of Marilyn Smith in care of the Clerks o' “J ^rough August 24. 2020, or made in person at Publ,c faring. Citizen vievsS^!cOm^menls on tho P,0P°sed emergency program ** 0<= c°unty Administrator Equal Opportunity Employer Fair Housing Compliant J4.M26 2202, phone (248) ^9 0850^ Rapids, Mich. 49503 2313, phono (616) ^3. 720. 110 Michigan Street NW, Grana r 9150. .. . . 202-456-1111- Capitol Information line for Congress President’s comment line. 1-204 J ess and the Senate: 1-202-224-31 • Christina Bush. Nashville City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Zoning Board of Appeals of the City of Hastings will hold a public hearing during its regular meeting on August 18, 2020 at 7:00 PM, location to be determined. Please see City of Hastings website (hastingsmi.org) for location. The purpose of the public hearing is to hear comments and make a determination on variance requests by Family Farm and Home of 802 W. State Street. The applicant has requested variances from Section 90-973 (a) (1) Wall Signs of the City of Hastings Code of Ordinances, that if granted, will allow placement of a wall sign with a sign height greater than '/< of the height of the store and a sign area greater than 10% of the wall area of the store. Legal description of said property is: Michael 0269/945-1400 U s. Senate D.bbie S«e„« t>~* ™ Get a FREE Satellite Estimate Raof Pricing Repo For Vour Home! “law and order” mindset, into cities where protests and rallies are occurring, most of them peaceful; the president ignoring the Constitution and suggesting that November’s election be delayed; lhe president defunding federal programs and agencies so that he and his cronies can profit once the regulations have been removed; lhe president openly admiring dictators and wanting to emulate them; and/or the president shrugging off his own and others’ actions and words that fuel the widening division in our nation. Since these actions do not seem to have swayed some voters, tell me this: What is it that would cause someone no! to vote for Mr. Trump? I am baffled. Part of the North 1/2 Section 18, T3N, R8W, City of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, and part of the Original Plat of the Village (now City) of Hastings, Barry County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the West 1/4 Comer of said Section 18: thence N89516’47’E 2143.76 feet; thence NOOC18'03'W 196.08 feet to the North R.O.W. line of undeveloped Center Street; thence N89J14'48’E 536.96 feet along said North line to the PLACE OF BEGINNING of this description; thence N00c18’03*W 170.00 feet, thence N89a41‘57"E 120.00 feet; thence N00s18'03*W 445 64 feet to the South line of State Street (State Hialiway M-37/M-43). South line is 49.50 feet South of the center line of State Street; thence N89’41’57"E 631.46 feet along said South line, thence S00e19 15’E 609 70 feet to the North line of Center Street; thence S89514'48’W 751.69 feet to the Place of Beginning. EXCEPT Applebee’s parcel, described as: Commencing at the West 1/4 Corner of Section 18. T3N. R8W; thence N89a16’47‘E 2239.31 feet along the East-West 1/4 line to the West line of said recorded plat, thence N00 25'40‘W 196.17 feet along said West line to the North lino of Center Street, thence N89a14’48’E 1190.58 feet along said North line of Center Street to the East line of Parcel "A”; thence N00’19'15’W 317.19 feet along said East line, thence S89’4r57'W 10 feet to the Place of Beginning nHho AoolebeA Pttrcel; thence S89a41'57’W 162.50 ? thence NOO19'15'W 223 feet; thence N89;4l'57-E 162.50 feet: thence SOO'19'15’E 223 feet to the Place of Beg-n.reng. Wri,,esnt aVSSS^lUO^St'S: s’K HaSs M-chigan 49058 until 5:00 PM on the day of me hearinq Requests lor information and/or mmutes of said hearing should bo directed to the Hastings City Clerk at the same address. The Citv will provide necessary reasonable aids and qprvices upon five days notice to Hastings City Clerk (Xhone number 269-945-2468) or TDD call relay services 1-800-649-3777. Jane M. Saurman City Clerk _ U5442 Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads �Page 6 — Thursday, August 6. 2020 — Tbe Marilyn Joy Lubahn. age 67. passed away on July 30,2020. Marilyn was bom on Match 5, 1953. the daughter of John and Janet (Donze) Manthei. She was a 1971 graduate of Leslie High School. On July 10. 1970. Marilyn married David Lubahn, and they enjoyed 47 years together until his death in 2017. Marilyn successfully transformed Oakview Adult Foster Care into a wellrespected home for the elderly as an owner there from 2006-2015. She then retired to spend time with her loving husband, and they enjoyed being with their grandchildren. Marilyn’s grandchildren were her heart. Every thing was about and for them. She loved traveling, with no particular destination in mind and finding adventures in interesting, little-known towns. She loved bowling in adult-youth leagues with Trenton and Miles and having Jenna and luiura over to swim in her new pool. Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband; her father; and her brothers, John Manthei. Jr., and William Manthei. Marilyn is survived by her mother. Janet Eileen (Donze) Norris; stepfather. Ivan Norris; her sister. Lisa (Eric) Cooper; her children, Kirk (Tara) Lubahn and Shana (Justin) Lipsey; and grandchildren, Jenna and Laura Lubahn, Trenton and Miks Lipsey. A Celebration of Marilyn’s Life will be held al a later date. Arrangements by Girrbaeh Funend Home. To leave an online condolence visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. B*n™’f Joyce Havens, age 66, of South Haven, passed away Sunday. July 26, 2020 peacefully in her home surrounded by her family. She had lost her 6-ycar battle lo lung cancer. She was bom January 28. 1954 to Erwin and Lillian (Schoonmaker) Havens, Sr. in Hastings. Joyce grew up with eight brothers and sisters. She graduated from Thomapple Kellogg High Schoo) in Middleville, with the class of 1975. Joyce loved to spend time with her family and babysit when she was younger. She was an avid book reader. Joyce attended the Casco United Methodist Church. She is preceded in death by her parents; brothers. Michael Havens and Erwin Havens. Jr.; nephews. Wes and Steven Scobey, and niece. Brandy Havens. Joyce is survived by her sisters, Margaret (Peggy) Scobey and Carol (David) Rcamcs of South Haven. Lorraine (Dale) Hastidt of Orangeville; brothers. Gordon (Charlene) Havens of Portland. TN, Donald (Maria) Havens of Lakewood, WA. and Gary (Gail) Havens of Middleville. Several nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great great nieces and nephews also survive. /\ memorial service will be held at a later dale. Joyce will be laid to rest at Irving Cemetery in Hastings. A special thank you to Caring Circle Hospice for their excellent care. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Havens Family. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guest book at www. FilbrandtlTH .com. Thu family is being helped by lhe Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven. 637-0333 Worship Together ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH p An Expression Of Who Jesus Ls To The World Around Us”. 2635 N. M-43 Hwy.. P.O. Box 8. Hastings Telephone 269-945­ 9121 Email hasrfmegpnail.com. Website: www.hastings freemethodist com. Raster Brian Teed. .Student Ministries Oinxtor. Emma Miller. Worship Director, Martha Sroctzd. Sunday Morning Worship: 9.im and 10.30 a.m. beginning June 21 until further notice. Due to lhe current health crisis, our nursery is temporarily dosed and uc arc temporarily .suspending al! Children's ministries Our church sanctuary is sc! up for social disundng. We du not tcijuire uearing masks, but do encourage it, especially while walking through thc building before and after services. Please keep your family together during the worship service. We are a multi ‘generational church family and understand that while this couid mean outbursts or potty­ breaks we arc not inconvenienced by your link- onc In an effort lo hdpyou, we arc providing weekly activity bags fur each child. These ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 805 S Jefferson. 269-945-4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip. Mass 4:30 p.rn. Saturday. Mass 8 and II itni. Sunday 301 E. Stale Rd.. P.O Box 273. Hastings. MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: w v. w.lifeg atecc.com. Sunday Worship ‘ 10 a.m. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. 309 E Woodlaw n. Hastings. Matt Moser. Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30-8 p.m.. Kids 4 Truth (Children Kindcrgarten5th Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8(X>4 for information. Nellie Elizabeth Siam, age |()|, of Middleville went to be with the Lord and many of her loved ones on Monday. Aug. 3, 2020. Nellie was bom on November 26. 1918 in Middleville, the daughter of Raymond and Edna (Sharp) Brady. Nellie grew up the daughter of hard-working farmers and learned many lessons of taking care of animals. She dearly loved animals all her life, especially her dogs, which were her best friends. She married Fred Slam in 1951 and they enjoyed over 40 years together until his passing in 1992. Nellie worked at Middleville Manufacturing lor many years. Nellie and Fred enjoyed preparing “The Lord’s Supper” for their church for 19 years. She was very selfless, taking care of her mother and Fred for 10 years. She was very proud to be a centenarian. Nellie never drove a car. but was an excellent side seat driver. She always had a little joke lo share or a kind thing lo say. Nellie was a (rue friend to everyone and will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Nellie is survived by her sister. Opal (Gerald) Sitton; special nieces. Klaisena Vandenberg, ami I^b Gutgsell; many nieces, nephews, frienJ^Otd neighbors. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers. Cljrc Brady. Nelson Brady; and sisters. Ethe/Haywood, Margaret Walker. Nellie liv£d her life by example as said in Exodus 2012 and Matthew 22:34-40. She honored Itr mother and father; and loved god and die another. Nellie7 graveside service was conducted at Mi. Ippe Cemetery on Wednesday. Aug. 5. 2020yPastor Peter Adams officiating. She will be pid next lo her husband. Fo/ a more lasting memorial, please consider memorial contributions to Christ lhe Khg PCA-Hastings. 328 S. Jefferson St. Ilasti/gs, MI 49058 or Barry County Animal Shelter. 540 Industrial Park Dr. Hastings. MI 49051. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneraL com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Nellie’s family. Peggy Sue Garrett PLEASANTV1EW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road. Dowling. Ml 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 10 a.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, Ml 49058. phonc 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday. 9:45 am. Deryl Lynne Boers, age 68. of Deltop went to be with Jesus on July 31.2020. Deryl was born on November 26. 1951 in Chisholm, MN. the daughter of Robert and Jennie (Fink) Smilanich. Deryl moved to Michigan as a young girl and helped in the family pizza business - Bimbo’s Pizza. Oh August 2. 1969. Deryl married the love of her life. Thomas J. Boers, and together they shared 51 wonderful years. She was always an active member in the church, most recently at Cedar Creek Bible Church. Deryl also served in various organizations such as thc Atlanta Christiah Women’s Club, of which she was co-presidenl, and was a Word of Life Youth leader for 17 years. Most important to Deryl was her commitment and dedication to Christ and her family. She was a devoted wife and mother who loved to care for others. Deryl is survived by her husband, Tom: children, Racquel (Antonio) Miller. Jennie (Allen) Rensel, Jama (Rich) Cross. Casey (Lee) VanCamp. Thomas (Liz) Boers, and Paula (Jon) Bronsing; 15 grandchildren: siblings. Robert Smilanich. Ron Smilanich, Debbie Smilanich. and Mark Smilanich: many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and caring friends. She is preceded in death by her parents. Deryl’s family will receive friends on Monday, Aug. 3, from 5 to 8 p.m.. at the Williams-Gores Funeral Home in Delton. ?\ funeral service will be celebrated al Cedar Creek Bible Church. Delton on Tuesday. Aug. 4. 2020 al 11 a.m.. Pastor Bob Norton will officiate. Burial will take place in Mt. Calvary- Cemetery. For a more lasting memorial, please consider memorial contributions to National Kidney Foundation of Michigan. 1169 Oak Valley Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48)08. Please visit wwvv.williamsgoresfuneral. com to view Deryl’s online guestbook or to leave a condolence message for her family. Senior citizens may interview for legal advice tomorrow The Legal Services of South Central Michigan-Battle Creek office will conduct interviews for legal advice and possible repre­ sentation, without charge, over the telephone to interested seniors. Seniors who wish to speak with an attorney may call 269-224-5040 Friday, Aug. 7, between 9 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Legal Sen ices of South Central MichiganBattle Creek office is a nonprofit organization that provides high-quality legal assistance, representation and education to seniors in Barry. Branch, Calhoun and St. Joseph coun­ ties. pleasantview FAMILY CHURCH WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTI AN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertiand. Wheel chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9.30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: Call for information bags are to be taken home or di.-posed of after each use. Vacation Bible School - Wed., Thurs, and CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) Fn . August 5-7, 9 a.m.-mxm. Out&xx Service. Aug. 9 at 10:30 am. Onc service only. Fix more information contact lire church. 328 N. Jefferson Street Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616-690­ 8609. 2601 Ijcey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Sen ice; 10:00 a in. _ SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS •SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON ri»25 Mdo Rd. |>(). BnK 765t (corner of Milo Rd &.S. M-43),' Pelton, Ml 49046 p.^tor Roger Claypool, (5|7) 204.9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 li) I :30jn,. Nurser> aniJ children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible ^iidy .md prayer lime 6:3(1 t*» 7:30 pm. This information on w orship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: New feature puts recipients in control ' Sue Ganen. a* passed away p,id July home surround ;fainl|y. 2020 at her hA?.rsbo'’.'on -• sFlexfab Hhasiings 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings. Ml 49058. 945-4700 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 |Q59 She k 'Uc’I,e Garrett|iusband, Dub Moore; dauX''',:‘1nb>re T>a'is) Kl"gsl,llr> and Sarah PD‘ d-f'- A|ina(l>md) Alex;iivi..r. JUrnian; r.^an Parsons, Jacob Hen()It''"1<lcl,',ldn:"iJ jus,in °’Neil1Alex, 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 HAS I INGS - Kenneth (Kenny) M. Greenfield, age 76, suddenly and peacefully, passed away in his home surrounded by his favorite woods, on July 30,2020. Ken was bom on June 23. 1944 lhe oldest child of Patricia and Maurice Greenfield. On August 14, 1965 he married Linda Jensen. They enjoyed 54 years of marriage until her passing in 2019, Growing up, Ken spent his youth with a life full of family, especially his siblings and cousins. He had fond memories of his Grandpa Latloy and Grandma Inder al Greenfield’s Deer Park. After graduating from Hastings High School in 1962, he joined the U.S. Navy, serving three years as a cook, honorably discharged in 1965. Ken would often share stories of his colorful young adult life including his motorcycle, dune buggy and snowmobile years. His hitchhiking stories were legendary. He would hitch home from Norfolk, VA for a weekend to see Linda and his Dad would leave him at an exit in Battle Creek with a prayer he would make back in time. Ken worked different places but spent most of his working years' at Hartz Mountain, with the McKeough family, us a sales manager. He spent his final years of work life working for Bradford White as a truck driver. He and Linda took many vacations, including adventures to Alaska. Hawaii, the Caribbean and Churchill, Canada to see polar bears in the wild. He loved the outdoors, his property, cutting wood, hunting, fishing, cooking, visiting with friends and family. He especially enjoyed fishing and hunting with his dear friend Frank DcGroole. Ken’s later years were spent closer to home, enjoying life in lhe woods and caring for Linda. His greatest enjoyment came from spending time with his family, especially with Linda, his son. Brandon, daughter in law. Tiffany and grandsons, Lucas and Cole. Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Patricia and Mauri Greenfield; in-laws, Jim and Virginia Jensen. He is survived by his son, Brandon (Tiffany) Greenfield of Hastings; grandsons, Lucas and Cole; brother. Gene (Sandy) Greenfield and sister. Jody (Stan) Stockham; many nieces, nephews and cousins. He is also survived by close friends, Larry. Peggy and Frankie Taylor; Tony and Brenda Heath, all of the Heath “Boys”, and his cousin, who was more of a brother, Larry Greenfield. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Pierce Cedar Creek Institute, 701 W. Cloverdale Rd. Hastings. Ml 49058. ?\ memorial service will be determined al a later date. Arrangements by Girrbaeh Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www.girrbachfuncralhonie. net. Larah !U“i1 C°"nOr Xingsbmy; n,cce’ Emma K'w’J *ve,al g g^--'^Ko<^rparellts. Okk and"|'Xc-|7 !" 1 iu. » ’ . (j'"'"' ..Miration ot life Vonda Van T il Public Affairs Specialist lhe future can be uncertain. However, Social Security s new Advance Designation program can help put you in control of your benefits if a time comes when you need a representative payee to help manage your money. /Xdvancc Designation enables you to identify up lo three people, in priority order, whom you would like lo serve as your potential representative payee. The following people may choose an Advance Designation: • Adults applying for benefits who do not have a representative payee, • Adult beneficiaries or recipients who do not have a representative payee. • Emancipated minors applying for benefits who do not have a representative payee. • Emancipated minor beneficiaries or recipients who do not have a representative If you fall into one of the above categories, you .nay proy.de and update Advance S’iiXne^' ? - 8°°- >'°Ur A“'“- your own decisions. In the U ° mak,ns longer make your own d-e • y°U C'U‘ "‘I your family will have o>ou an<1 you already chose ofmin‘1 knowing manage your benefits. nC >0U ,n'S‘ /'-■r,.,, Sofa Zr»'< n,ay write Knapp Sil- Gru , / »'V W5 ■■■■■■«....... �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 6, 2020 — Page 7 fl looK hack at the stories several erTt,’ iri'”'’*'iv„smcii ;C "en<:i1 «P ami 0475688493666087 i i i , > t 4 I retired th1’ i’1 . । )n<l and eighth order. ex^P^ol ‘ reached first inning’’. »n * on an en°r nddt ^Vk-rrin^' l*le second hi^ ”■ J I Iv"0"' W‘"“ ->nJ inning 0,1 ’ . ases on balls to in the Hastlnos Bonner TURNING BflGK THE PAGES Ball game is big draw at 1922 Baltimore-Johnstown picnic Mahoney. goU« in the third Smelker by a base on on a two-bOiw y in the fourth ()n a ball* and an stoic sccond and scored hitby K Rt ? singlc; on Mahoney . the tilth un singles bv ■iwo '■>!’%; m; Ro*h. Sm'e;d:\nd Br.uidstetlU-r ,n the s,xtb ()n a d Leonard. F jonl>U' >> Brandstetter and |,y Mahone • alld Salter. One more singles by N • a sing c by Ward, bases on in the seven'" y jnd Cluny and a single by balls to Maho^ lhc,)imh on - b BrandstetterRoUsh. who stoic second, on hall* ^oney. running for scoring on . content later on Brandslctler’s Cherry, scored •» Baseball established itself as America's favorite pastime in the late 1800s. In the summer of 1922, after the country had survived a world war and a pandemic, the game was as popular as ever. (Library of Congress photo) piiintond Dust hit. „ . f’hprrv lthc cajcherl all out of . 1R'jd ..the«»me' Wofoul balls glanced Uk dunng >h^hit hinl lhe sam(. on down, and opting hint so that he could the s‘*'n'- around but gamely stuck it out for only hobble a»uu ,hi; I".”.’ i" bi,d Wi,h «'!><!" . ' a ''r.^c-tlled him out at the plate, and he t k tintpi s• asiderable joshing from the h .. .••Rabb'"'-’’ i! seems, had made a bet S Gde that !lastin^s would score as many ° w * inning oS l’ie Doling team would n,,^n one «nmnghoie inwardly chuckling «<> himself that he had music, too. A large number form this city were present, and there were many who didn’t leave as soon as the game was over. Township and even county picnics should be encouraged. A day off on such occasions does anyone good. We are "all here:” all have our problems to meet, and extending our acquaintance by meeting the “other fellows.” gives us a better and more accurate view point There are a lot of good people in Barry County, and the regret is that wc do not know one another better. Compiled by Kathy Maurer, copy editor. Committee seeks World War II vets for celebration The Grand Rapids Greatest Generation Day Committee has announced a two-day celebra­ tion recognizing the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II. The celebration is planned Tuesday and Wednesday, Sept. I and 2. Committee members are looking to identify and honor all living West Michigan World War 11 veterans. The event will include guest speakers, a flyover, “Their Stories Told” World War II Veterans Tour - Portrait Display and more. Anyone seeking more information may email kristinjnooney@nara.gov. won. When thc ump'« >-a led him out. and his $7 went glimmering- Hastings won. but Attendance at the annual Baltimore'Johnstown picnic was estimated based on the • number of vehicles parked in and around Vickery’s landing on Clear Lake. The ‘automobiles changed the way people spent their time away from work, whether watching ballgames or camping, as in this photo taken at Island Lake State Park. ’ (Archives of Michigan photo) lhe Aug. 9. 1922, Banner published a story on the retent Baltimore-Johnstown 'Picnic. A full schedule of events - or any other activities, for that matter - was not included in the stay. The onh story, it seems, was a baseball gaeie. Stiff the excitement and interaction with unknown fellow rotim) residents incited the ‘ write to suggest township picnic*' become regular events. BALTIMORE-JOHNSTOWN PICNIC WAS A BIG SUCCESS Between 3{)00 and 4J)00 present Dou ling-Haslihgs ball game main event - Outside of first inning, Hastings played good ball | Dowling— AB Lmv Jf'....’ 4 Shmovci1,'jf . . 4 |Cox, . ....................4 ^Tiitnojr,3b ... Srhrincr, 2b .. Wilbur, ib ... Minor, m .... Hora, , Stanton', p .... I 4 .1 J 3 3 B BH FO A I­ 0 0 1 0 0 112 10 117 2 0 112 0 0 114 2 1 0 0 10 0 0 0 0 13 1 0 0 1 0r-zl n 0 0 10 0 Totals .......... 32 3 Ha tti In • AB 11 Rou«h, K., 2b . 3 4 Mahoney^ >«...! 2 Cherry, c •...........•*> 1 Brundstctter, 3b **• 2 Booh, AC, lb • I I lUrringtqtC’fr 3 1 Rm piker, rl .... 3 1 Leonartt.ef ... 5 o Ward, p ...... 5 1 . • — — j Totals ...........40 13 I Sroro by I 12 3 .3 0 Q |Ita»ting'f '..... .2 2 1 4 27 20 BH 1»O A 1 4 3 3 1 4 1 (» P 5 0 3 o 12 0 •> 1 0 •> 0 1 0 0 0 10 — IS 20 3 H 0 J 0 0 0 c 0 0 I ,/ J A large crowd, estimated at between 3.000 and 4.000 people, attended thc Baltimore and 4 3 G 7 H 9— R 0 0 <J 0 o Johnstown picnic at Vickery ’s landing at 3 1 2 2 1 0 n 13 Clear Lake. Some idea of the size of the crowd may be gained from the fact that With only last names, and a few firstbetween 700 and 800 automobiles were name initials in both the box scores and parked there. accompanying story, the identities of the One of lhe chief attractions on the program Dowling and Hastings ball players is lost was lhe ball game • between Dowling and with time. Hastings Independents. Dowling has a ball team the town can will be proud of. In fact, many large towns cannot boast of one as that occasion, the Dowling team played a fast, good, which accounts [or the fact that up until snappy game and hit like demons, all of which last Thursday, the Dowling team had met with added to lhe interest of a game between but one defeat, and it had contested with a Hastings and Dowling. Friends of both teams lined up around the number of good teams, too. Victories had become so common and so field Thursday, but the Dowling boys were regular that Dowling rather had an itching to apparently so eager to win that they made a try conclusions with Hustings, and a game number of errors in their zeal to play rapidly was arranged for the Baltimore-Johnstown and accurately. Hastings went to bat first, K. Roush Sport* Day. Thursday. '1 he only time that many people had seen gelling a base on balls. Mahoney was hit by a the Dowling boys perform was at thc Barry pitched ball, both advancing a base on County Picnic in this city (Hastings], which Cherry‘s sacrifice and scoringon Brandstetter’s was held recently when Dowling defeated hit through second base. Two runs. But Dowling came right back and scored Nashville by the score of 23-3. Nashville making all of it* scores in the ninth inning. On three, Shine ver. thc second man up. making a SEEKING APPLICATIONS FROM VOLUNTEERS t The Barry County Board of Commissioners is seeking applications from volunteers to serve on the following b0 rd s/ Commissions: Solid WaswWMS®1- waste repres 2 9“"ral publlc; 1 “Ud County Administration Office, mav be obtained a st- Hastings; or APS°• 0nf <-the Courthouse. 220 3rd floor of th under the tabc)ick .. tab' Howsjon do Iand apply tor:onA wwvv-h?try. AJvjsory Board or0 p m on Monday, August ffX returneeI no [nore formation. 24, 2020. Contact 269 u The bi- crowd that gathered from miles ■mrund to witness this game is evidence that baseball is still the great national sport. The Howling team is a good, husky bunch and knows how to P'«> baseball, hut over­ anxiety to win this particular game caused them to put up a poorer article of ball than usual. , no . , The Lake Odessa Boy Scouts band furnished music for the occasion - and good Water’s Edge Financial LLC Jeffrey A. Keessen, AIF® (269) 948-9969 525 W. Apple St. Hastings, MI 49058 www.watcrsedgefinanciaLcom Taking care of what's important to you so that you can focus on what matters most to you J<fTrv» A. Ketvscii .UP* Securities offered ihreiu^h LPI. Financial. Member FISRA/S1PC ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENT PUBLIC HEARING PARKWAY DRIVE ROAD IMPROVEMENT SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2020-1 TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF ORANGEVILLE, BARRY L’pUNTY, MICHIGAN AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSON'S: PLEzVSE TAKE NOTICE that the Township Board of Orangeville Township, as authorized by PA 188 of 1954, as amended, proposes to undertake a road improvement project on Parkway Drive in Orangeville Township (as more particularly described below) and to create a separate special assessment district for the recovery of the costs thereof by special assessment against the properties benefited. The Township Board of Orangeville Township is acting pursuant to petitions, as authorized by PA 188 of 1954, as amended PLEASE T/\KE FURTHER NOTICE that the special assessment district within which the foregoing improvements arc proposed to be made and within which the costs thereof are to be specially assessed includes all parcels with frontage bn and/or with access to Parkway Drive in Orangeville Township. I LEASE TAKE FURTHER NO I ICE that the Township Board has received plans showing the proposed road improvements and associated activities, together with an estimated project cost in the approximate amount of $28,562. The cost of th^ project is proposed to be raised by special assessment on parcels in the proposed district. The Orangcxillc Township hoard has pas&d a resolution tentatively declaring its intention to undertake such project and to create the afore-described special assessment district. I LEASE TAKE FUR I HER NOTIC E that the Township Board has placed the payed plans and costs estimate on file with the Township Clerk and said plans, cost estimates and special assessment district may be examined at thc Township.CIcrk’s otlice from the date of this Notice to the date of the public hearing and may further be examined at such public hearing. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Board proposes to make a special assessment based onroad frontage on Parkw ay Drive (including an assessment for an end lot) each year for a period of five years (2020--0-4 inclusive). The;.total assessment amount will be approximately S33.85 per foot of frontage and'or access on Parkway Dnve. The Township Board reserves the right to levy a lesser assessment in lhe final year of lhe special assessment district, if there fye more funds in the special assessment district fund than thc amount needed for the project. - PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a public hearing on the plans, district and cost estimates will be held at Orangeville Township I lull, 7350 Lindsey Road. Plainwell. Michigan, on August 11,2020 at 7:00 p.m. At the hearl“l?’ the Board w ill consider any w ritten objections and comments to any of the above matters which are filed with the ownship Clerk at or before the hearing and any objections or comments raised at the hearing. 1 he Township Board, at the hearing or at any adjournment of the hearing which may be made without further notice, may revise, correct, amend or change the plans, cost estimates or special assessment district. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that if written objections to lhe project arc filed with thc Township Board at or before the hearing, signed by the record ow ners of land constituting more than 20% ot the total frontage on the road, the township board may not proceed unless petitions in support of the project, signed by record owners of more than 50% of the total frontage on the road proposed for improvement and for inclusion in the special assessment district, are filed with the township. The Township Board has already received petitions in support of the project signed by record owners of more than 50% of the total frontage on the road proposed for improvement. Written comments or objections may be filed with the clerks at the address set out below. I PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that appearance and protest at the public hearing is required in order to appcal Jhv amount of the special assessment to the State Tax Tribunal within 30 days after die special assessment roll is confirmed. An owner or parts in interest, or his or her agent, mav appear in person at the hearing to protest the special assessment, or shall be permitted to file at or before the hearing his or her appearance or protest b> letter and his or her personal appearance shall not be required. All interested persons arc invited to be present in person or by rcprcsci^alivc anj (O express their views at the public hearing. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NO IKE that if the Township Board determines to asscssmcn , the Board w ill cause a special assessment roll to be prepared and another hearing wi x* ic , ’ t < ivc to rec^r °wncrs of property proposed to be specially assessed, to hear public comments concerning e p >pos specif asse>»sment. Orange.Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and sen ices to mdh idiials' the liearn g upOn pour duys» notice to the Township Clerk. Individuals ith disabililie* req g ser' ices s U)uld contact the Township Clerk al lhe address below . Mel Risner. Clerk Oranges ille Township 7350 Lindsey Road Plainwell. Ml 49080 (269)664-4522 144877 �Pa9e 8 Tllursday. August 6, 2020 — Tho Hastings Banner Resident asks city to review chicken-raising ordinance G«g Chandler < u consider changing lhe city’s animal control . Staff Writer A Hastings woman is asking officials to ordinance lo allow people !o raise chickens in all residential zoned areas. Jtake. QdeiAa ii \i — \ i \rv \/ \/ \i \i _______l \ r .— \ N Elaine Garlock ’ • V । IS WCC^ We are having a rspite from thc **■ F ?crnPcralurcs °F the past three weeks. are for slowly rising temperatures ’»• r£°r enl*re week, starting in the 70s from Sunday onward. This gets us a bit of relief '-*from raising and lowering window shades ;.-%md keeping our doors adjusted. Open doors ». ^during the night and closed doors in daytime i* mas been a good practice. » Elderberry bushes are now' showing tiny » berries that are still very’ green. How long •- does it take for such berries to turn purple? ;^omcmber all those roadside bushes with big ..-white sprays of blossoms back in June? Look there for the berries in a week or two. There are several such bushes along Huddle Road east of town on a grave! road. Martin Road has several bushes on private property in the ' swampy area. ” Workmen have been busy with big machinery in recent weeks working on lhe /( drives at the elementary school sandwiched • (between Washington Boulevard and Sixth ”.-'Avenue with drives from thc Boulevard and 7 Second Street. The driveways are being 7 totally redone with new curbs being installed. ’There is also a walkway from Sixth Avenue. The entrance is on thc boulevard and exit for ’ 'all passenger cards and buses is onto Second Street. i( i \ c--- ~J v— x A bit of history': The bond issue t<> Bui < West Elementary' was passed in ail • . 7 Construction began in earnest the next spring. The following year, September 1958. .students began attending with grades K-4. The bui mg was soon overcrowded so the fourth gra ers were removed to East Elementary. l‘ie nt‘u building had a large gymnasium with a stage, library and several classrooms, plus a large playground. The name was changed when Las Elementary was closed along with closings o Clarksville and Sunfield elementary schools. Memorial services for the late Donald an Marie Posschn are set for Friday, Aug. 21. After being open Sundays for the month of July, Central United Methodist Church is again closing following the latest edict issued by the governor. I f we were a restaurant, u e could still be open. The congregation is more than 10 people. The monthly delivery of food stuffs from Feeding America took place Tuesday. Only Cargill employees were allowed to handle the food, which is dealt out to eligible recipients. The downtown planters in lhe large tubs remain beautiful with their tall cannas the centerpiece of each. They are surrounded by colorful begonias. Some of the cannas are yellow, but most are red. Koops Chapel has showy w indow boxes filled w ith w hite flowers. Dental Insurance Get dental Insurance from Phys’cians Mutual Insurance Company to help cover the services you're most likely to use - xXcieanings x/nt.ir.ji v/x-rayj \Xcrowni v^Dentures 'ingle nndhej •,f ^0 MkxmIs in the eari .... relocated to H;iMlnyear ago. made fotirtosix chicken1 r,>i 2(MX)‘’’ wilh a limit of David Hatfield said. the request to t|K. p|!U1ning commission <bc lot. Holland .^’Pending on lhe size of lhe discussion of chickem. and other live­ Monday night. S|1c ^vas cited lasl. w°ck by a A'Won ;,n(1 stock within thc city limif has cum-.- tefore cixle enforcement officer after city officials raise chicken. i„ the planning commission or city council •; few n'S learned she was keeping chickens in the backtimes in the past decade. potent^:Xngesl'hXkr ‘"'c n"y y aid of her South Ikoadwav home. Fellow commissioner Jaequic Mclxan “I P,a,Hcd •’» garden and i fivc hens for said they will L. . 1ht.law Cominis. ioners praised Drabik for coming forward with i;cr my backyard fOr e«H,^/ Drabik said. “After I concerns. got them. I learned i couldn’! have them, that ”1 applaud your vision and being pan ot the there was an ordinancc in Hastings that said I been bro^h!”ti,nc lhi.s is'i,'c ll:i' solution and wanting lo be part of a progres­ ur aHenlion,’ Chairman sive community.” McLean said. couldn’t have then) ” The city’s animal control ordinance, adopt­ ed in February |yy7 apoWS for chickens in areas zoned rural residential, but does not allow them in any other residential zoned district. “Il depends on what your projjerty is zoned for.” Mayor Dave Tossava said. Drabik was gjVen jq j:1y5 to get rid of her chickens. What Iike|y tjpped oft' zoning offi­ cials. she said, Was t|]al one of the hens behaved like a rooster, and she had it butch­ ered. However, giVcn uncertainty of thc economy, she said people should have thc Driv•6??inr ^a’nwe” man was walking his 13-year old blind dog on Long Point ability to do more to help themselves be more Phi *-li P m man said he and his dog were startled by a 19-year-old self-sufficient. Tl* H fUC lk3n "h° Was carrymg a toilet and sneaking up the street to scare his friends. “Il’s a progressive, forward-moving action . । p.0!2’ wh° was not °n a leash, bit the 19-year-old.The 19-year-old’s mother, a 45-year. to do that, especially jn the times that we’re o ainwell woman, reported the incident to police at 8 a.m. July 27. 'Ihe dog was quar­ in.” Drabik said. fecj my perspective is we antine to t tic Long Point Drive home of the 67-year-old man. The cave is inactive pending all need to take more responsibility for our the end of the dog’s quarantine. self-sufficiency, even going back to the times of our grandparents and great-grandparents.” 3 lie animal control ordinance allows for the keeping of household pets, such as dogs and A drone was spotted flying over an East Grand Street home in Hastings on lhe evening cats, but also includes fish, birds, hamsters, of Aug. 2. The report was made by a Hastings woman who said thc drone was hovering nonpoisonous spiders, snakes and reptiles, in outside the living room window of her home and later flew up near a bedroom window. all residential-zoned areas, h only allows The device was humming and had several flashing lights, she said. Police arrived on scene farm animals, such as horses, cows, pigs and but could not locate the device. Anyone who sees suspicions drone piloting activity are chickens in rural residential-zoned areas, asked lo contact the Hastings Police Department. community development director Dan King said. A number of Michigan cities in recent years have changed their animal control ordinances to allow chickens in residential neighbor­ hoods In her presentation to commissioners. A 41-year-old Plainwell man called police July 30 claiming that 20 individuals were Drabik cited the City of Grand Rapids, which attempting to gain access to his Cork Street home b> banging on the front and bick doors. allowed for chickens in single-family neighWhen officers arrived at 1.06 a.m. they did not see anyone around the house. Thc man said the intruders were hiding in the woods and asked the officer if he could see them squirm­ ing away. He said this had been going on for a few nights. The officer asked the man if he had taken any medication or illegal substances. The man said he had medication for bipo­ lar disorder and had previously taken edible marijuana, but not that evening. The man refused to go to the hospital with the officer, who later contacted the man’s sister. The officer followed up with the man later when he said he felt better about the fact there are not people hiding in his woods. The case is inactive. Dog bites man carrying toilet Drone spotted peeking in house window Man claims 20 people tried breaking into his home at 1 a.m. 1-877-695-8260 {Political signs stolen from Freeport homes Bfble Study Guides & DVD s’ v r» ProOxl An officer responded to a home on Woodschool Road in Freeport al 6 p.m. July 27. A 79-year-old Freeport man alleged that four President Trump campaign signs had been stolen - two from his home and two from his brother’s home nearby. Tie man said he planned to put up a trail camera to try and catch the thief on video The pair also sqid they plan to put up a no trespassing si^n. The case is inactive. er zxnorrw>--»i>.-f i>-. zc"<< mwr.C* ^'x-0«.n r.CO Srty tiMceo ^tioh MICHAEL KINNEY PLUMBING < New construction, remodel, repair, drain cleaning. BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEALERS Same Day Installation License #8110376, Office (269) 948-2248 & Insured Mobile (269) 838-5112 > * 5Vcu> Cotton Prints - goodfor every person Thread, Trims, Zippers, Patterns, Quilt 'Books, elc. llulst Cleaners Station 'Pray Tor Our Nation if Onc Hatton Under God h? QUESTIONS: ASK US— large estate auction Saturday, August 8, St 9:30AM (Note Ttraa) LOCATION. Frcm Hostings, take A-179 west approx. 13 miles to Lvnn Drive, turn right to 1434 Lym Drive. Middleville. Ml 49333. CAR: 2006 PT Cruiser. HHR - Mult See! Chevy Impala ANTIQUES G COLLECTIBLES: 2 Round tables; many oil lamps; store counter candy jars: Cedar box; (Jhlld's folding chair; Roll top desk; Oak drop leaf table; Oak high toy dresser: Dishes; Cine bottom rocker; Sewing box Rolling p!nsrEaking dishci; Cast iron dog; Small Singer sewing box; Wood file cabinets. Aluminum Wagner roaster; Crocks, Trunk; honing board clpir; Zenith floor radio, Copper boJer w/lid; Wagner cast iron teapot Cast iion cornbread pan; Pressed back rocker; Bent arm rocker; Crates; Wood sugar rocker; sewing notions; Fishing lures. Xacto guillotine style paper'eutter; Metal Army ammo boxes; License platef i40s-70s) S Mote! HOUSEHOLDi Nightstands; Oak desk; Chat w/ottoman; Dishes; Rugs. Samsung TV; New kitchen cupboards; I Poster bed; Kenmore Elite microwave; Patio settee; Set of Corningyare casserole dishes: Pressure cooker; Small glass door cabinet; Kefimore & Elna Sewing machines; Sewing notions; & More! TOOLS & MISCr Fbwer Tools-’ Upright Band Saw, Sander, and Table Saw; NEe old machinist box. Radios; Speakers; Battery charger; Garden yagon; Jackknives; Field glasses; Live trap,; Garden tractor cart; Picnic table; Floor jack; Mowers; Dolly; Toro rear line rototiller; Fu.'mture clamps; Fishing poles; Tarps; Shop vac; Walk behind sidewalk trimmers & weed eater- ne* wood screen door; Honeywell safe w/kftys & more!! ESTATRJJfLRCNE^ CHEW 8:1 Kfl RTt I: ■»* I mCl 1 Pl'JZiT 11 u fl fat a ./Jr■« • id ITiV, ’lAHY 1 CP AWJ-lg'*ECT many SURPRISES" Hoist Cleaners Pick-Up Station Woodland woman turns down offer to buy a freezer of meat Police responded to the home of a 36-ycar-old Woodland woman at 3:34 p.m. July 28. Thc woman claimed two people had pulled up to her house in a pickup truck and attempt­ ed to sell her a freezer of meat. She said one man exited the vehicle and knocked on her door. He informed her he was selling meat and she told him she already had a freezer full. He then offered to sell the woman both the freezer and the meat, both located in the bed of his pickup truck. The woman said the man did not have a menu of meats, adding the whole incident made her feel uneasy. The woman said the second individual never left the vehicle, l he case is inactive. R/Bara alleges barn break-in and equipment tampering An officer rcspontfed to lhe Crooked Creek Drive home of a 71-year-old Shelbyville man who alleged someone broke into his barn in the middle of the night. While nothing was missing, the man said lhe intruder added more hydraulic fluid lo his log splitter. Iksaid he could tell because he had changed the fluid the day before. The officer said there was no sign of forced entry and asked the man if he had cameras in the barn. The man said he did, but he believed the intruder had tampered with them as well because there was no image of an intruder on the tapes. The man said he would change lhe fluid again, but he wanted lhe incident on record. The case is inactive. •< '< 3 » For more Information go to www.auctionzlp com #23371! Never Charging Buyers Premium! 218 E. Stalo St, Hastings • 945-9673 OPEN MsodayFndiy 8a.-n-530pn. Sansday 9 u*n-3 p-i - ’~c~**wn** — nnCTTONEERS--^4* -AUCTIONEERS- KENDALL TOBIAS ...../............ Hastings 945-5016 PAUL LETT1NGA.................................... AUCTIONEER KENNETH....................... AUCTIONEER Licensed Master Plumber Licensed Journeyman Plumber - Kendall Tobias, Auctioneer Banner CLASSIFIEDS l.g®®»945.5016 AAAZ- aaaaaaaaaaa?\aaaaaaaaa^/ CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 DcM,cd ,o‘,,c,',u’r‘’s's°/^CountyS(,|(.el«56 HT* Hastings DANNFR Hestifisx One Stop Shop (1W66) (M-43 North) Superette Family Fare Toms Market Hastings Johnny's Help Wanted business Services KASSON 10FT OAK Pool Table, excellent condition. $1,000.00 or OBO. 269-908­ 165-1______________________ CONSTRUCTION LABOR­ ER NEEDED: Need own transportation. (269f-420-0334. MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom traders buckets, bale - pears, etc. Call 26l’-8(M-“50o. CARRON SPORT AIR I Jock­ ey Table. $300.00 OBO. Phone 269-908-1654. WoodJand: Speedway • MkJtolJe Marketplace Greg’s Getlt-N-Go Woodland Exf-rcii Cloverdale; GuiiJ^kc: BrownS Cedar Creak Grocery Sarris Gourn*-! The Dock Store P.eJtpnt p'di? All real ^hville Hasting^ Pharmacy ptfps 66 Gas Station (M-37Wtet) Family Fare Gas Station Walgreens PraJrievJiLej ‘ t5,ub:.-Uh’lS4 I in H. Thdmu Pno AU and the Muhif-u Ciul R^-lc, . „h,,h rule it ' jn* pre(cT«(xr. ‘•‘1 diurini'-aU' 'i lx.w;! »”» A'xc U'l inti nui'.i! * •Ar «» < u'lwini. <hea<c«sf is •• . “'-incn a.*4 ‘1V ^rrnaiy Dc'lon Johnny Ck!c Doster Country Store YARD SALE- FRL, Aug /, 2020, Oanvbpm, Sat., Aug8th, 9am-4pm. Q06 Bal-am Dr.. Hastings (Meadow-tom’ Mobile Home Park) Kikht n items books, furniture, lixds, clothes etc. L»o «iHuh to hst!_ PUBLISHER’S NOTIC1 »c. Mega Bev Banfffid: ,.i'i"iy ‘-I ‘HiMre.n l ist TS-s""ill r.ut k'A ■am - 1 •■■■< Iw ml Prairieville Fast Step Orgnsieviljc; 18 MON TH OLD Angus Bull. $2,800. Canfield Angus Fann. 616-340-8072. Garage Sale ' P <*A I a< WMcIdtet Farm «•« Js Middleville Johnny's The General Store Marathon For Sale Poujing: Gl") -- * '<Ljsa Joh^ ’ Car|s General Store U.»elhr.,’» aJ.citiu-.! c: u icv.p-r -fv w cpf. ha«i« To d.sr.;n.-.i’ , n ,/J! i.ur iL^vifi* Cc.trf at Mh 4S1 ?>x > the HVDtv’l ticc U'cpSK.c (,a REPURPOSE SALE- GIVE ,1 new lire! Fri.-San., Aug^ 7-l,lh, 2020, 9am-4pm. koWall Lake Dr.. Delton. Work tables, bo.ikua-c. queen pl.iitormframe.sidi’tablesc-ofke Ubk-, desk, chest dre-'.serwito mirror, lamps trunk holiday iu.nw. linens, c^torne }ewelrv, ktfehen ware, bassets art- work- K«nn date Aug. llth-toth. BEUS CONS TRUCI IGN­ IS years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, norne improvements power washing. 2o9-32iV-3S<U). BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. ior nut trees. Insured. Ii« workman^ comp I For Rent Dfl TON, MICHIGAN- SE­ NIOR Subsidized housing for p-\'plc who are 62-vear> and older w ilh certain income restrictions, l-bedroom apart­ ments available. Non-snu>king. secured biHy, CIom* to downtown Delton. Cail tor more inlonnatiou at 2n9-6"!341)00 or i n National Relay 711. Equal Housing Oppor­ tunity. �I JL * JL M ■ Tho Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 6. 2020 —' Pape 9 stitute to celebrate Latesuifl11^ Nighfs fundraiser with a twist i- . annual A M. . . _ dinner and nuctionsk NiSh,’s Green • ♦ mnunusmgcelebration . rv_ ,, , „ . _ picrcv Cedar Creek Institute's mission to inspire appreciation and stewardship of the — AskDocfor w Universe Feeding the body Dr. Universe: Why do we need to eat and drink? Victoria, 7. Minnesota Dear Victoria. Just like a car needs gas to run. food is lhe body s fuel. Food gives us energy, or the power to do work. It helps us run, jump, think and do all kinds of things. That’s what I found out from my friend Alice Ma, a dietician at Washington State University. When you take a bite of food, it goes down your throat or esophagus and down into your stomach. In lhe stomach and small intestine, things like bile, acid and enzymes help digest, or break down, the food so your body can absorb lhe parts it needs. Food also contains carbohydrates, a sub­ stance rich in energy that is made up of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. Carbohydrates can give us a lol of energy, especially when they come from foods like grains, pasta, rice, veggies, breads, legumes and nuts. Here’s how it works: The body breaks down carbohydrates into simple sugars, which gel absorbed into your blood. Sugar levels rise, and your pancreas — an organ down on lhe right side of your belly — releases something called insulin, which helps move the sugar into your cells. Your ceils can now use lhe sugar lo produce ener­ gy or store lhe sugar for later use. There are all kinds of different foods to try in our world. One of Ma’s favorite ingre­ dients is peanut butter. She likes lo put it on top of her pancakes, cook it into curry and dip spring rolls into a peanut butter sauce. “1 cook a lot of different things." Ma said. "I’m always experimenting." She said one question she also gels is. “What would be the one good food to take with you if you were stranded on a deserted island?" “There’s not one single food that every­ one can eat to power everything." she said. "You need a variety of foods." " Food also contains lots of different parts, such as vitamins and minerals that get absorbed as digestion happens. Protein from foods like meat and peanut butter get stored in muscle, skin and other tissues and organs. Calcium from things like cheese or green leafy veggies can help the heart pump and keep bones strong. As a dietician at WSU. Ma helps plan and create meals that fill thc bellies and power the brains of thousands of university stu­ dents. She also encourages people to drink plen­ ty of w ater. Water is important to our cells, along with our organs and tissues. In fact, water is w hat makes up most of our blood. Blood helps carry things like oxygen and nutrients through our body. We lose a lot of water every day through things like breathing, sweating and going lo the bathroom. That’s why it is so important to drink water every’ day. While food and drinks are important to our health, they also are a big part of cul­ ture. Humans celebrate entire days about food and throw festivals to appreciate dif­ ferent cuisines. What kinds of foods do you celebrate in your family? Tell us about it sometime at Dr.Universefa’wsu.edu. Dr. Universe RS. If you or someone you know needs access to food or wants to donate to a food bank, search the Food Finder for more information: https://foodfinder.us/ Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University’s resident scientist and writer at Dr.Universe© wsn.edu or visit her website, askdruni verse jcont. a ser at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute generally draws a crowd of supporters for dinner, socializing, and ons. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, this year’s event will include a virtual raffle and Fund a Future. e already made a pledge if a minimum amount is reached. (File photo) The late-su both silent ano। Anonymous o°no - environment. However, because of coronavirus pandemic, this >*»* fu'»lraiser will be a virtual celebration- I ut it still will focus on two of the most popular events: the raffle and Fund a Future. Thc raffle will feature five unique and institute-related prizes: a private hike and picnic; the opportunity io name an Eastern box turtle; camping and survival training in thc Little Grand Canyon; a lour of Alice and Ken Jones’ library" and a fishing trip on Brewster Lake. Raffle tickets are S5 each, or three for $10. Ticket purchaserswill be able to direct tickets to their preferred prize raffle. Raffle tickets may be purchased by calling 269-721-4190. Tickets will be available until Aug. 28. The raffle drawing will take place Aug. 31 at 3 p.m. and will be broadcast live on Zoom. 1 icket holders do not need to watch the live drawing to win. Fund a Future is a special auction that allows participants to support research opportunities for the biological field station and community programs at specific giving levels. This year’s Fund a Future goal is to meet a specific fundraising goal. Event sponsors have donated $8,500, and if members and friends match this total, a group of anonymous donors will donate an additional $8500 - bringing the fundraising total to $25500. Each person who donates to Fund a Future by Aug. 28 will Ik* entered into a drawing to win a private dinner for eight at the institute from September through July 2021. The drawing will take place Aug. 31. Donations may be made to Fund a Future by calling Development Director Cathy Hart- Jansma. 269-721-4131. Thc website CcdarCrcckInstitute.org has additional information and is another option for purchasing raffle tickets or donating to Fund a Future. “We will certainly miss seeing so many familiar faces and generous supporters of the institute." Executive Director Michelle Skedgell said. “However, wc will get through Ulis challenging time together. I hope you are able to join us for this year’s A Latesummer Night’s Green by purchasing raffle tickets and donating to Fund a Future." Ten miles south of Hastings, Pierce Cedar Creek Institute isanaturecenter,environmental education center, and biological field station on 829 acres that includes nine miles of hiking trails. The institute’s mission is to inspire appreciation and stewardship of our environment. OFFICE OF THE BARRY COUNTY DRAIN COMMISSIONER NOTICE OF DAY OF REVIEW' OF DRAINAGE DISTRICT BOUNDARIES AND REVIEW OF APPORTIONMENTS August 20, 2020 9:00 n.m. - 5:00 p.m. Yankee Springs Tow nship Hull DATE: TIME: r\LOCATION! ------------------- :----- 7------— ► ~— ------- ----- 284 N. Briggs Road Middleville, MI 49333 VIRTUAL LOCATION: Zoom Meeting Link: http://www.bit.Iy/2Xvp5HV Zoom Meeting Password: 9768523 (312) 626-6799 Meeting II): 281 910 5661 T QUEST IONS Prior to Day of Review: (269) 945-1385 CALL IN: Fhaiidal FOCUS Member SIPC A licensed professional engineer has recommended lands be added or removed from the Drainage Districts. A general description of the lands Bv section number proposed to be added or deleted from the Drainage Districts is as follows: Jeff Domenico, AAMS0 450 Meadow Run Dr. Suite 100 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269)948-8265 2169 W. M-43-Hwy., Suite A Hastings, Ml 49058 (269)818-0423 Drain Name ------- Bray Drain 1 Chalker Drain How can you help lower your longevity risk? The investment world contains different types ol risk. Your stocks or stock­ based mutual funds could lose value during periods of market volatility. The price of your bonds or bond funds could also decline, il new bonds are issued at higher interest rates. But have you ever thought about longevity risk? Insurance companies and pension funds view longev­ ity risk as the risk they in­ cur when their assumptions about life expectancies and mortality rates are incorrect, leading to higher payout levels. But for you, as an individual investor, longev­ ity risk is less technical and more emotional: it’s the risk 8. 9, 16, 17 2. 3.4, 9-11, 14-17, 8. 17 7. 17, 18, 20 Orangeville Township ___ Prairieville Township 20-23. 25-29. 32-35 3,4 Deal Intercounty prajn Orangeville Township 19, 20, 29, 30 19, 20 Duncan Lake Intercounty Drain Thomapple Township 17, 19, 20, 30 5,8, 17, 19, 20, 30 ^inkbe'iner Drain Thomapple Township 7,8,17,18 2, 3,4,9-11, 14-1/, ?()-a3 25-29-32=35- 7,8 Creek Drain Orangeville Township r Lake Drain Gnn River Intereounty Drain Prairieville Township _3,J 11, K IK Orangeville Township T3 25-27-31A5-. Prairieville Township 3,4,6 Thomapple Township 31,32 -4,'679,15.16,22T Yankee Springs Township ___ J^vijj^ton Drain Orangeville Creck lnlcrcounty ______ Drain J*£22JStercounty Drain Granges ille Township Orangeville Township Prairieville Township Orangeville Township ___ I-ake Drain ^\yiisorHntert.ounty pniin Yankee Springs Township Thomapple Tow nship 6 "~3173~2.~33 ~~ 3.4__ ____ 2?>?29-32_____ _3() 15, 16 15. 16,2I._22 20.21 _ 1 Yankee Springs Township 4.31, 32 4, 6.9, 15,34 ?7 34, 3S--------7,8, 18 7,16-18 ~T479nT:'TT-fR, 7,8 -2U-2X?5-,9. 32^3S- Si ______ r»'vnDrainNo. 3 _ 16,21 ors , Member Orangeville Township • „j|| be sufl'c'11" nanctal Advisor. Edward I 8,9 I ’"X'S. j 8, 9, 16 *1 * local Orangeville Township < ■ 1 tircment. _______ ZA_______ ______ Orangeville Township.. r-’ curity Administration. Once you have a reason­ able estimate of the number of years that lie ahead, you II want to take steps to reduce your longevity risk, siartvis. try lo build your fi- equate guaranteed income, a sun,ucnt emergency fund and enough other invest™n,st0 handle nonessential costs, >ou II be doing what to reduce your own "T"5 >isk. And that .nay Portions of Portions of .Sec lions Added__ AecUoiiYlleimmitL 1212 April of this ycear _ can ex­ on average, peel to live, for men, the until age 86.5 corresponding figure according lo the Social Sc 66 and 67. You might also consider other investments that can provide you with a steady /tK-ant. A liiKtncial inconic ,>nal can help you piofessic the inconte-prouncchoose 1 ,tmenls 'hat arc aP’ ing invesi "c . fnr vour needs and your essential living expens­ es, have you eliminated lon­ gevity risk? Nol necessarily - because "essential" ex­ penses don’t include unex­ pected costs, of which there may be many, such as cosily home maintenance, auto re­ pairs and so on. And during your retirement years, you'll always need to be aware ot health care cosls. If you have to dip into your guaran­ teed income .sources to pay for these types of bills, you might increase the risk of outliving your money. To avoid this scenario, you may want to establish a scParate fund, possibly containing al least a year’s "onh of living expenses, with the money held in cash or cash equivalents. This money won’t grow much, if al < but h Wi|| be there for you when jounced it. With careful planning, ad­ Clem Drain______ _ Municipality ri of outliving your money. To assess your own lon­ gevity risk, you’ll fir** wa,u to make an educated guess about your life span, based on your health and fumi ly history. Plus, you’ve got some statistics to consider: " in Women who turned 65 nancial resources as much as possible, because the greater your level of assets, lhe low­ er the risk of outlining them. So, during your working years, keep contributing to your IRA and your 401 (k) or similar employer-sponsored retirement plan. Then, as you near retire­ ment, you will need to do some planning. Specifically, you will need to compare your essential living expens­ es - morlgage/rent, utilities, food, clothing, etc. - with the amount of income you’ll get from guaranteed sources, such as Social Security or pensions. You do have some flexibility wilh this guaran­ teed income pool. I or exam­ ple, you can file for Social Security benefits as early as 62, h»l your monthly checks will then he reduced by about 30 percent from what you’d receive if you wail­ ed until your full retirement agCt which is liM> hetueen • The Day of Review is in opportunity to review thc Drainage District boundaries and apportionment of benefit for the Drains listed below w il|i thc Drain Commissioner or a staff member. Maps of the proposed Drainage District boundary­ revisions can be found on Barn Coqpty’s website at: w wwTarrv countY.org. Provided by the Barry County offices of Edward Jones Jim Lundin Password: 9768523 The ? ^issionur, engineers, and/or other stall membc.s wall be asu fnmc on ihe Dav of Reand ’Mons where necessary. 1 here is no need to schedule an aPP< ml nu t o . viewu ’ PPutation of cost-, for the Drams listed above will also he ax.uhb at ,l>>c>slncnls .Jrc being are Cl)l d l,k* same manner as property taxes and will appear on your \ v due ,Jt ?in li|nc avo;d colleet^ k>r n10rc l|un (j r >ou nU) pay lhe assessment in lull with an) ink . furihcr interest charge-,. ;.i, ,1 , 4.. • .the Dav of Review should contact lhe l,er>c’71.nimk,-abiHl’es ^ceding accommodations or e leclive part’cipa . b lhe Michigan Relay Center ;ii 7-1-1 DrahrL< ™” goner’s Office al lhe phone number hsted above ivmcc) 0 -h < ud olhcl-;i5shLkkc (TPD),tasl -4 hours in ad\ anec ol the Day of Review lo request mobihtj. x tMiai. . min- 1 . . 1 • , , nktrici boundaries to lhe Barrv Couniv Circuit YnU m?tthm tJjr? Druin L'ommissiunct > decision to revise the Dr. n- lionrncnis to thc Barrj County’ Probate Gouri kn (10) days and you may also appeal the determination ol aj P<” Court"1'1"" 10) day’s. ’ Jim Dull Burry County Drain Commissioner �Papo 10 - Thursday, August 6, 2020 - The Hastings Banner TRIAL, continued from page 1 deceased, were their longtime friends, Lynn Burnett said. Schreppcr had lived in Oregon for a while and, when she came back to the Michigan in the fall of 2018, she had asked to stay al the Burnett’s house for the weekend. 'She ended up staying there for six weeks, before the Burnetts kicked her out. Lynn Burnett testified. . Around that time, lhe Burnetts sold Schreppcr a car. but thc title and insurance v*ere never officially transferred into Schreppcr’s name. *Schreppcr had said the car was htfer stolen, and the thief drove it into a utility pole. while attempting to flee from police in Kalamazoo. Since thc car was still legally in thc Burnetts nftmc, they were sued by Consumers Energy for more than $11,000. Lynn Burnett said she and her husband were not happy about lhe lawsuit, which is still pending. ’ What made thc situation worse, she told jtfrors, is that Schreppcr was not helping them take care of it. . * Schreppcr eventually went to a rehab facil­ ity in Grand Rapids, where she stayed tor a number of months. During that lime, Lynn Burnett testified that she told Schreppcr she wanted the belong­ ings the Schreppcr had left in her pole bam to be removed. > “I told her to come get her stuff out of the barn, or I was going to bum it.” Lynn Burnett sdid. Around 1:45 p.m. on June 21, Schreppcr arrived at thc Burnetts’ house with two oilier women from lhe facility. Amanda Nelson and Domonique Franklin, to pick up the items. All three women testified Tuesday. ’/rhe items were in a pole bam, and the Women backed up the van to the bam. and started loading their items. • “It was tense, very tense,” Lynn Burnett testified. ’ Yet the encounter was cordial at first, she s$id. ; Jon Burnett gave Schreppcr a hug. and told her he was proud of her for going to rehab, she said. . “He was trying to be friendly, but 1 knew it wasn’t a friendly visit,” Lynn Burnett said. Both Schreppcr and Nelson said Burnett appeared to be intoxicated. He was unsteady, his speech was slurred and his eyes were glassy, they said. Franklin said she smelled whiskey on him. and saw him drinking brown liquor. Nelson said he seemed “like a grumpy old man.” and was mumbling under his breath. But they weren’t uncomfortable al first. Al one point. Burnett offered them some­ thing to drink. Although the women's testimony didn’t agree on lhe exact wording. they remembered a similar statement: “You b------ s want a beer?" Nelson recalled. They told him they couldn’t have beer, but Franklin said Jon Burnett gave her a soda. Lynn Burnett testified that she told her hus­ band lo go back inside. They didn’t need any more help, she explained during her testimo­ ny. Nelson said she noticed that Burnett had grown “more gnimbly.” “He didn’t seem happy about lhe situation, but I couldn’t tell exactly why,” she said. When he came back outside, “something was different.” Nelson said. When Burnett walked by her. she said she immediately fell uncomfortable. “His eyes were soulless.” she said. The women finished packing lhe van, although some items could not fit, and had to be left in the barn. They were ready to leave, but paused while Schreppcr smoked a ciga­ rette. Burnett had gone back inside the house, then he came outside again. Lynn Bumett said her husband had her pink and black handgun. He held it up in the air and yelled. “AH right, I want you b...... s off my property now.” The other women remembered Burnett say­ ing something else: “Get these b------s out of here before I kill ’em.” Schreppcr said. But, according to their testimony, they weren’t immediately alarmed. Schreppcr said she didn’t take it seriously, until she heard Lynn Burnett yell at them to get out of there. “You could hear thc seriousness in her by the incident. „ “( still have a rough time, nc ~ voice,” Schreppcr said. Nelson said she did not know Lynn Burnett, but (he tone in her voice was unmistakable. ‘‘I think d I heard anybody yell like that, 1 would know that it was danger.” They testified that they immediately got in thc van. and drove away. As they did. lhe women saw Lynn and Jon Burnell fighting, as if they were struggling over an object lhe women in lhe van couldn’t sec. Nelson recalled hearing Lynn Burnett yell, “Jon, don’t!” Franklin said she saw Lynn Burnett grab her husband’s arms, as if she was trying to stop him from doing something that would hurt them. Lynn Burnell testified about lhe struggle. She said when she heard Jon yell at thc women she was shocked. “It’s not really Jon to be that rude to peo­ ple.” she said. “He’s a mellow guy. and it takes a lot to get him mad.” She added that lhe couple has rules in lhe house, especially about firearms, and Jon was breaking those rules. “I hit him in lhe chest really hard and said, ‘What thc f—k arc you thinking?’ ” He grabbed her by thc throat and pushed her out of the pole bam, she said. “He said to me. 'Do you want some of this, b—h? I’ll give you some of this.’ He said. ‘Get on your knees,’ and I knew better than to gel on my knees, because I’m thinking, this isn’t right. I figured he would shoot me... I figured I’d probably be dead.” “I fought with him.” she told jurors. “All 1 could think was to grab thc barrel of the gun lo control it.” She tried to punch him in the throat to dis­ able him, but he blocked her. “We were face-to-face, toe-lo-loe, fighting. I peed my pants. I thought I was going to die.” Both of them crashed into a truck parked by the barn, when Jon Bumett suddenly stopped fighting and went into the house, Lynn Bumett said. He had never attacked her before, she testi­ fied. She thought about hiding in the bam, or running out the back door. Instead, she got a Powerade energy drink out of the bam refrig­ erator, she said. Then she heard Jon ratcheting her 12-gauge shotgun through the open windows of their house. She went back inside the house, she testified, and saw him at a chair. She grabbed hcr car key and left. She said she thought he was unloading the small-game rounds from the gun to replace them with something else, she said. As she was driving away, she saw’ Gary Peake, a longtime friend, push-mowing his lawn next door. She called a neighbor, wor­ ried that if that woman was home alone, her husband might attack her. “If he attacked me, he might attack any­ body.” she testified. Her friend didn't answer the phone. But she didn’t think to stop and warn Peake, she said. Lynn Bumett said she was planning to drive to a friend’s house in Delton. First, she stopped at a gas station and bought two more Powerades. Then she saw' a police cruiser in the parking lot of the local township office. She drove up to it. and told the officer she had been assaulted. They went inside the office, and she told thc officer what had happened. As she told him her story , she started to hear police radio traffic discussing the area where she lived. Eventually, she heard Peake’s name, and she asked the officer what happened. He told her that Peake was dead. “I thought. ‘Jon, what have you done?’ ” In the time from when Lynn Burnett had left their house to when she heard the radio traffic, numerous people encountered Jon Bumett alongside thc road. Ten ot them testified in court Tuesday about what they had seen. Keith Ramsey testified he was driving on Lindsey Road, when he saw a man with a shotgun walking in the road. Ramsey was unable to identify Bumett in the courtroom as the man he had seen. I he prosecutor later pointed out that Bumett had shaved his beard and hair since the incident. He also w as wearing a mask in lhe courtroom. 5 with fcetgX--’ time. thinking ” Powell said. “I “There was no tninKing. was kind of flipping out. Pratt asked why. .. rep|ied. UnG^aandI NoS? ustif."f|ey Sd^^aW Barry County Prosecutor Julie Nakfoor Pratt questions potential jurors Monday. (Photo by Scott Harmsen) Ramsey told jurors that the man in lhe road had a blank stare, was walking ’‘jittery” and unstable. “I thought it was real strung**’’ he said­ A little further on. Ramsey saw DeGood walking south on Lindsey R°ad’ *n ^urne,t s direction. DeGood worked for a tree service compa­ ny, and was walking along the utility lines to mark trees that were too close. “Something inside me stud it just doesn’t look good.” he said. “1 regret not stopping." He thought about it the rest of his drive home, Ramsey testified. , . Lansing resident Michael Geist testified that he drove on Lindsey R«ad lhal aflemoon, and saw both Bumett and DeGood standing by the road talking to each other. Tracy Schisser and her son Garrett arrived al the intersection of Lewis and Lindsey roads a little later. When they came to a stop, Tracy said she saw DeGood, standing by the road, facing her car. with Bumett right behind him. She saw' Burnett’s hand reach up, inches from DeGood’s back and she heard two gun­ shots. DeGood fell forward.onto his stomach. She saw Burnett saying something, but she couldn’t hear what it was. “1 said to my son: ‘That man just shot that boy,’ ” Schisser testified. She told jurors she heard one more shot, and DeGood got back up. He immediately put his hands up, she recalled. “The young man’s eyes were huge, and he was looking at us,” Schisser said. Pratt asked what DeGood’s expression was. “Fear.” Schisser answered, her voice start­ ing to break. “He wasJemfied. “In my eyes, he a child - and he was scared.” / * Tracy Schisser described how Bumett had leaned to the side, and looked at them in lhe car. She couldl’t sec a gun. but she believed that he pointed one at her and her son. Garrett Schisser, who was 16 at the time, testified he could see blood on DeGood’s face. / And he could see the pink gun. He said he couldn’t heir what Bumett was saying, but it appeared that he was speaking to them. It looked like he was telling them lo leave. “He seamed angry.” Schisser said. His mvther was frozen. Garren said he told her twice, “Mom you have to drive," but she didn’t respond. He tquehed hcr, and that got her attention, he said.' "I gi/ess I was froze in that moment because 1 wastfl just seeing any other young man.” Schisser said. "I was thinking that could be my child right there staring back at me. “But on the other hand, as soon as my son said,‘Mom, you have lo drive,’ it clicked, and I thought, ‘My child is with me.’ ” She hit the gas so hard the books on hcr dashboard fell onto thc steering wheel and she lost control for a moment. She told her son to call 911. Garrett said he didn’t have enough cdl service, and the call wouldn’t go through. They kept driving for about a mile, until Schisser pulled into a driveway and called 911. The dispatcher seemed to already know what was going on. Barry' County 91’1 dispatch had many calls that afternoon about the comer of Lewis and Lindsey Roads. By the time Schisser was get­ ting ready to back out of the driveway where they had stopped, emergency vehicles were already driving p^t Geist, who had seen Bumett and DeGood talking earlier, hapnened to drive past again. He saw DeGood'^ . / .he °f ^wis nis face. Geist said As he drove pas7 he "e saw Bumett approach DeGoodV **/"** reach down, as if to „r,h>wlhingGeist arrived .ad's nearby. He started to tel?// "„<l “hal haPpen?/ when he heard !h,S .,en S“nsho,s- He al<’«Pside the Lh0‘ly 'n ■ ,?^‘l leanu/'b^lon/j'--1' ..... testified that handgun at him • U nb • u-b going to ^^S^inches^ the selection ,he COn' toward h.m and Road. He was lying by the of ,hf 2**’ his stomach, with his anns ou«lrclch/' . " saw a bunch ofb^on his head and on Barry County Judge Michael Schipper instructs process at the Expo Center Monday. d adding strug. his face. Mun wi* • "I thought 1 was going to die." he said, tears in his eyes. Robinson said, when he stopped, another vehicle, driven by a woman, was pulling away from the scene. His windows were down and he heard Burnett tell the woman to leave or he would shoot her. Robinson had four of his grandchildren in the vehicle with him, all of whom were under the age of 10. He saw DeGood’s body, and wanted to help, but Bumett wouldn’t let him, Robinson said. Bumett approached the driver’s side of the vehicle and held the gun inside the front and back windows, pointing it at Robinson and his grandchildren. The kids were screaming, but Bumett said nothing, and Robinson said nothing. I thought he was going to shoot us,” Robinson said. Slowly, he drove away. He tried to call 911, but wasn’t able lo make the call. “I couldn’t get my phone to work, 1 w’as too nervous,” Robinson said. Pratt asked him how he had been affected thev believed to be Burnett, standing in me road. Hc reached down and up. It looked like a piece of black metal, 3 to 4 inches long, Noah Harps said. Her husband got out of the car to ch-ck on “He’s not breathing,” Gary Harps recalled telling his wife. . .. Burnett came toward them and started yell­ ing. At first they couldn’t hear him, but even­ tually something was clear. f, “Get back in the car or I’ll shoot you. too, both of them recalled Bumett saying. “Did you believe him?” Pratt asked. “When the shots went off? Yes, I believed him,” Noah Harps said. . Bumett shot four times, lhe couple testi­ fied, but Noah Harps said he didn’t believe he was aiming at them. He was close to thc vehi­ cle, but no bullets hit the car. “I think he was just trying to scare us.” Noah Harps said. "1 assumed he wasn’t that bad of a shot.” Pratt said her case, which consists of 46 witnesses and 76 exhibits, will continue into Friday or Monday. Afterward, attorneys McNeill and Steven Storrs will call witnesses for lhe defense. McNeill told jurors that Bumett will likely testify in his own defense. Courtroom will get audio upgrade if state says OK Rebecca Pierce Editor Barry' County Trial Court officials want to upgrade lhe historic circuit courtroom to enhance sound quality and assist staff in improving remote access for participants and lhe public. Court Administrator Ines Straube told county commissioners at the committee of the whole meeting at the Barry Community Enrichment Center’s Leason Sharpe Hall in Hastings Tuesday that a $72,700 grant is available to the county. Those funds are part of $45 million in Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding for trial courts. “The court would like to seize the oppor­ tunity' and leverage those dollars," Straube told commissioners, who approved applying for the grant. If the slate approves the request, the money would be used to contract for assis­ tance during remote proceedings; purchase court recording software and hardware, mon­ itors, cameras, and speakers for off-site hear­ ings; cover the cost of facility rental fees for off-site hearings required for social-distanc­ ing; as well as sound-absorbing panels for the circuit courtroom to improve audio qual­ ity for remote participants, she said. Straube estimated the court recording soft­ ware and hardware, monitors and speakers for off-site hearings would cost $25,800 Sound-absorbing panels for the circuit court­ room would cost an estimated $20,000. Among other anticipated expenses would be lhe need lo contract with an individual to assist with remote proceedings. Last week, the first “COVID-19 era” jury' trial in West Michigan look place in lhe Barry' County’s historic circuit courtroom. The proceedings presented many complica­ tions and challenges for lhe court and county IT staff. The Barry Expo Center was rented to allow for potential jurors to report for duty in a setting large enough for social distanc­ ing. The plan had to be choreographed to ensure that all proceedings would observe requirements of lhe law for jury selection. “The amount of work behind the scenes is really unbelievable,” Judge Michael Schipper wrote in a text to The Banner last Thursday while Circuit Judge Vicky Alspaugh presided over the felony trial of David Krebs II, 30, of Vermontville, who was convicted Friday of assault with intent to do great bodily harm. This week, Judge Schipper is presiding over the jury trial of Jon Burnell, 64, of Plainwell, who is facing multiple charges in the deaths of Gary Peake, 73, of Plainwell, and Bryce DeGood, 21. of Haslett, June 21, 2019. Jury selection again look place at the Expo Center; the proceedings arc livest reamed for lhe public so social distancing can be enforced in the courtroom for all par­ ticipants, including court stall, witnesses and jurors. Since the trial is taking place in Schippvr’s courtroom in lhe Courts and Law­ Building. lhe audio feed has not been an issue for the remote connection. Straube told commissioners, "People don’t see behind the scenes" of these proceedings, which requires every court staff member to assist w ith Hveslreaming. Zoom connectivity and recording the proceedings for the court record, “h’s pretty much all hand* on deck," she said. In other business, the commissioners: • Recommended approval of the 2020-21 child care fund budget summary totaling S678.945, which covers the cost of a court-appointed special advocate, home intensive-care probation and a wraparound program administered by the court. Straube told commissioners that foster care, residen­ tial care and detention are all covered through this fund. During the presentation to the commis­ sioners. Jan Otto, deputy court administrator, said thc court is dealing with more compli­ cated cases now. and juveniles are requiring more services. • Heard a presentation from Brian Urquhart, assistant manager and planning and zoning administrator for the Village of Middleville, about lhe annexation of an 80-acre parcel of land on Bender Road in Thomapple Township that will alter the boundaries of thc village. The parcel is the planned site of a new Thomapple Kellogg Schools learning center, made possible by a $425 million bond passed November 2019. School officials sought the annexation lo connect the new facility to the village’s water and sewer sys­ tem. Construction on thc new building is expected to start in early 2021. The county board agreed to schedule a public hearing Aug. 25 at its regular board meeting in Leason Sharpe Hall. Commissioner approval is the last step in the annexation process after both the Thomapple Township Board of Trustees and the Middleville Village Council approved the request. • Recommended approval of a request from Undersheriff Mall Houchlei to add $4,156 to the SI5.CXX) purchase of tactical vests to replace outdated bulletproof vests for sheriff’s deputies. A better vest was found. Houchlei said, and that resulted in the additional expense. • Recommended approval of a request for a public hearing on Community Block Development Grant Emergency Program Income guidelines Aug. 25 during the regu­ lar board meeting. The program would involve the use of $65288 in CDBG funds to cover the cost of emergency repairs for homeowners whose incomes are at or below 80 percent of the area median income for lhe county The nub Ik- hearing will allow citizens an opportunity to submit comments and questions about the program. • Recommended, among other revisions the approval of a budget amendment Z' reflects an increase of $22 2So ,, , fund revenues from a state grant for m r™ marijuana. lhe board also re«mm / amending Charlton Park rev“ nue "d dilute budgets to reflect the limit ‘?d CXpen' executive orders. Drawing from th / । balance (expenses exceeded / *hc fund $60,850) covered the cost UeS b> tractor that were purchased in m’h? "’d not delivered or invoiced until WO i*”* production delays, -020 due to �j ; The Hastings Barnar — Thursday, August 6. 2020 — Page 11 Hastings couple promoting Juversity through reading 'I stai *400. ■ s .1 ■ ucraKwn • w» 'H' Hastings residents Catie Case and Darnell Day. with the help of over 60 other households, donated 250 booko promoting diver­ sity through reading. (Photo by Luke Froncheck) Luke Froncheck Sh{ff Writer Catie Case. 38. and her husband Darnell Day. 40. both of Hastings, are donating books lo shed light on racial issues and diversity by further educating themselves, their children, and the community . "The story is less that I did this, or that me and my husband did this, and more that our community did this.” Case said. "We were thinking about what we could do that was actionable and not just performative." The pair have been together since 1998 and are leading a fundraising initiative to donate books to Hastings Public Library, Hastings High School. YMCA B. Bus and other locations. ■ “We all need education, and we are not absolved of racism - even when we have friends and loved ones of color," Case said. Day, a 1998 Hastings graduate, is black, and Case, a 2000 Hl IS graduate, is w hite. Day works as on aerospace engineer, and Case is a I. . US. utU JO’biVQiqai. ’• veterinarian. . . . r. , “For me. this project was a way to offer the community literature that comes trom a more diverse perspective,” Day said Wednesday. "In doing so, my hope is that these books will help normalize the idea of race for people and give them a chance to experience diverse cultures they don’t often see |if they live] here." l he couple raised $3300 from over 60 area households, leading to the purchase of more than 250 books. Day and Case’s experiences in Hastings and Barry County led them to reinvest in the community by educating young people through reading. Case said. ’ The people who contributed to this are from all political and religious perspectives. Case said. “We all agree we can educate ourselves belter," she added. • “This is not meant to be a criticism of this wonderful community." Case said. “We love that this is where we want to live and raise our children. But we worried about lhe lack of di versit v. It is a very homogeneous community, which is great and not great. "We have just seen a culmination of events nationwide that led up lo our doing helps people building compassion.” Library Director Peggy Hetnerling said. “And for this.” those kids that aren t white, it lets them see After receiv ing the $1.200 stimulus checks through the Coronavirus Aid Relief and kids that look like them. Case said one of the most important things Economic Security Act, Case said the initial plan was to take a portion of their stimulus to her about the project was purchasing the money and give it back to lhe community. books from an independently run bookstore Their plan was to donate books to the Hastings ow ned by a person of color. She found just that with Kendra McNeil in library. YMC/\ B-Bus. Hastings High School, Grand Rapids, owner of We Arc LIT and other lend-lease libraries. But before they got started, Case reached bookstore. "She was wonderful about getting the out to friends and family via social media to books I needed," Case said. see if anyone else wanted to contribute. Of the over 250 books that Case and Day In one weekend, she raised over S2.000. “I donated because inclusive thinking m donated. 47 of them went to Hastings Public this community is long overdue." Jessica Library. Troyer. 35 of Freeport said. “Because 1 believe "There are books about nice and about a that black lives matter. And because 1 know- child taking a bath that just happens to feature literature is the best way to open minds to a child of color,” youth services librarian greater aw areness.” Paige Brandli said. “1 think this is a great project, especially “They're just human stories," Case said, for the Hastings and Barry County community, adding that the books are for readers from as most of us are not exposed to other races infants to adults. anti culjiucs Yicre.u7u1icTiray. 63, of Delton ‘ After the books are processed, Hemerling said. “1 have heard community members state said they will be available throughout the they don’t think we have a ‘racial’ problem library in its various sections. here, and I think that, itself, shows an "From our perspective, if someone wants unawarencss. assistance with finding books, that’s what we “1 believe education early in life is the do.” Brandli said. "If someone comes in and only way to change this culture we are in, ind wants a book about or written by a person of I commend her efforts in trying to change it.” color, we can help find one.” Gray said of Case. Case pointed out books illustrated by Donations arc still trickling in. Kadir Nelson for their artwork and ”1 hope the books get shared widely," illustrations, including a picture book titled Case said. "Books let people experience other Blue Sky White Stars. perspectives. It helps us educate ourselves as "I like this book in particular because it’s a white community without putting that onus patriotic and simple, and I just lovc.il,” she on people of color because that is exhausting said. for people. Sometimes people say things The couple also purchased 50 copies of intending to do harm, but a lot of people say- lhe book “Stamped from the Beginning” for things not knowing, but it still causes harm. lhe HHS English department. Case said the "It’s a way to kind of independently and in book discusses lhe history of race in the a non-threatening positive way to get the United Slates. information out there to people.” "We were jusl trying lo think of ihe best Case and Day purchased books featuring way to educate our children and our authors, characters and topics surrounding community," Case said. people of color while working w ith community "I’m a reader: I love books." she added. members to ensure the books met educational Case and Day have three children: Reuben. and curriculum guidelines required by the 9; Olive. 7; and Opal. 5. library and school district. "In my experience, I have found that "Reading books about other perspectives books have a way of explaining many Darnell Day and Catie Case both graduated from Hastings High school and have ' three children. Opal, left. Reuben and Olive. (Photo by Capture Photography) “I don’t want things like this to be politicized or feel threatening in any way. 1 just want everyone to be able to educate themselves in their own interest and in their own way.” Catie Case — ---------- ,— concepts to children that are difficult for adults to express." Case’s mother, Barbara. 66 of Hastings, said. “Through quality literature, written with intent, purpose and beautifully illustrated by professional artists, we can articulate much more about the world we live in.” This is the right approach for this community. Case said. * ‘‘I don’t want things like this to be politicized or feel threatening in any way.’\ she added. “1 just want everyone to be able to educate themselves in their own interest and in their own way.” . Case and Day asked anyone interested in donating to contact Case through her email address: Catiecase@gmai I .com. ■ •v^.. Your Success Is Our Business Get professional results and unbeatable value from the local specialists ^ busiiiess services!____ Business Cards • Signs, Banners A Posters printing A. Copying • 1 aminating • Marketing Matenats • Brochures & Handbooks ‘And Much More. I el ns customize your promotional materials here! Contact Ty Greenfield, Steve Skedgell or Jennie Yonker paige Brancjf,, donor Standing among some oi t Catie Case and library director P 90X 269-945-9554 �1 Pag, 12 - Thursday. August 6,2020 -Thc HaslnQT. Banner__________________________________ __ _________________ Tent raises questions Lake Odessa woman killed in her home Tim Ross pitched his campaign tent outside the Irving Township Hall Tuesday. Township Clerk Sharon Olson said she measured, and Ross was at least 100 feet from the entrance ramp into the building. Someone notified Barry County Clerk Pam Palmer of the situation Tuesday morning. The Barry County Sheriff s Department stopped by to check out the situation and found no issues. Ross, who had challenged incumbent Jamie Knight for the supervisor post, lost by 34 votes, 359-325. (Photos by Brett Bremer) U.S., state race results m Barry Comfy . U.S. House of Representatives - 3rti District ’ Thc district is currently represented by U.S. ]Rep. Justin Amash. a Libertarian from Cascade Tow nship. This district represents Barry. Calhoun and Ionia counties, part of Kent County, including the city of Grand Rapids, and part of Montcalm County. Total vote counts are unofficial pri­ mary results from the Michigan Secretary of Stale. JkputteiapdnKiQ(Unofficial Michigan Secretary of Stale vote totals, below.) Peter Meijer. greater Grand Rapids, 47272 Stale Rep. Lynn Afendoulis, Grand Rapids Township. 24,580 Emily Rafi. Battle Creek, 3.462 Tom Norton, Sand Lake, 14.914 Joe Farrington, village of Lyons. 3.966 In Barry County, total votes for Republican candidates were, as follows: Meijer. 4,929. Afendoulis, 2293; Rafi, 501; Norton, 2,499. and Farrington, 520. Di-uiDsiiii kiprimury Meijer will face Democrat Hillary Scholten of Grand Rapids in the November general election. Scholten, who received 3.619 votes in the Barry County Democratic primary, was unop­ posed Tuesday. Is Just the Beginning U.S. Senate (ii^ primary contest) Incumbent /U.S. Sen. Gary Peters, D-Ponliac. rafl unopposed in the primary'. Peters, lhe junior senator from Michigan, is finishing his,first six-year tenn after having first been elected in 2014. Peters received 3.696 voles in Barry County In the general election. Peters will face political newcomer John James. R-Detroil. James, a business owner and a United States Army veteran, first sought a senate scat in 2018 when he was defeated by incumbent Sen. Debbie Stabenow. James also was unop­ posed in lhe primary. James received 10.008 voles in Barry County. Your Community... Your Family...Your Interests... Your Home...Your Work!... Call 800.870.7085 or pick it up at one of our locations listed below! It's All a Part of Your Local Newspaper! Michigan’s 87th district Thc district represents Barry County and part of Ionia County including the townships of Boston, Campbell. Danby. Keene. Lyons. North Plains, Odessa, Orange, Portland, Ronald, Sebewa, niost of Berlin Township, and thc City of Portland. Slate Rep. Julie Calley. R-Portland, was unopposed in the primary- She received 10,142 votes in Barry' County. Calley also appears lo be unopposed in the general election: The Democrat whose name appears on the ballot. Jay Molettc. a BarryCounty native and Hastings High School graduate, announced July 23 on his Facebook page that he must drop out of the race because he no longer lives in the district. w t'.ie laiemit oj |br»y G-unr, S: rr IS56 Jx Hastings Hamer Michigan Slate Senate - Stale senators, elected in 2018, serve four-year terms. 'The next election for this office will take place in 2022. Sen. John Bizon represents the 19'" state senate district. County. servcs Barr> Luke Froncheck ~ Staff Writer 1 inn Salas. 47, of Lake Odessa, was found dead in hcr home with obvious injuries to her throat at 9:50 p.m. Monday night. Lake Odessa Police Chief Kendra Backing said. Jesse James Thompson, 29, was arrested in Livingston County noon Tuesday, and later arraigned on open murder charges in Ionin County. Thompson is being held in thc Ionia County Jail. Additional charges arc possible. Backing said, adding that "he has a significant criminal history. He has a history of domestic vio­ lence.” Thompson was dating Salas, and was living with Salas and her mother in their lutke Odessa home. He and Salas also worked together al Twin City Poods in Lake Odessa, according to authorities. Lake Odessa police officer Olivia Boot was called to the couple’s residence at 68 Keci.i Court in the Lakewood Mobile Home Estates. Upon arrival, Boot contacted Salas’ mother before entering the residence and finding the body. Salas’ mother said she was not present when hcr daughter was killed, police said. "We called Michigan State Police for assis­ tance in manpower and resources for process­ ing lhe crime scene,” Backing said. “The Lxike Odessa Police Department was greatly assisted by Michigan State Police. We cannot be more grateful for the manpower they pro­ vided.” (sup Loki? r«. kJ uUpC • < • ■ • FamtyF.ve Wocdlnntf V.’ojJ..;-.-! L E-t-.r Pine Lafe Npshyille T’acft vq Pcs! r M HJr? •’/ryj GenG'.y*; Ma’Ohon rv'-.n F’ ’ bnep P&iriwilte I - su .' IVur.. '■? F-J *Jcp • . '• - . ;■ \IA Pn.'Tr’oey Clpycrdple. hl J'i- WCV.-TTA Cz-.va; G.r. J Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Michigan State Police Trooper Caleb Siarr, 33. who was struck while on duty July 10, died July 31 from thc injuries sustained in the head-on crash. "The Michigan Stale Police mourns the loss of not just a trooper, but a husband, father and dedicated public servant who had so much left lo give in a life that was cut far too short.” Col. Joe Gasper, director of the Michigan State Police, said. Starr was on duly in Ionia County’s Boston Township just before 10 p.m. July 10. He was westbound on Grand River Avenue in his patrol vehicle when a vehicle traveling cast, operated by a 28-year-old woman, crossed lhe center line and-smashed into his patrol car. Thomasina Shani Jones, of Montezuma Creek in southern Utah, struck Starr’s patrol vehicle head-on. She has been charged with second-degree murder in thc alleged drunken driving crash, police said. Her blood alcohol content was 0.23, nearly three limes above the legal limit in Michigan, authorities said. Starr was flown by medical helicopter to Spectrum Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids, where he was received emergency treatment until he died on the evening of July 31. C/t r yy,r*. \ CcC r tf. f.^ F'« Gx Sriftr. V. •*. u.'.'.’.I' . Shelbyville •.GTtC&U Odton ISkeO t >pfe' U.OUt’i I- - V v . >. ~ .J v .. . . C Middleville 0t?-* 0^3 Gel it-riG’f J ""'‘7 fteepon pntificld .it G; '■ "'.j. Sit Dowling Ionia County victims’ service officials worked with Salas’ mother to notify tamily of Salas’ death. Michigan State Police Trooper Caleb Starr died July 31 after being hit by an alleged drunken driver on July 10. He is survived by his wife. Rachael, a civil­ ian member of the state police, and their two young daughters, Gasper wrote in a press release. Starr was a member of the l^ikeview post and joined the state police in September 2018 as part of the 135th Trooper Recruit School. Chamber seeks ideas for marketing campaign llie Barry County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance have unveiled a competition to create a new mar­ keting campaign encompassing and uniting all of Barry' County. The chamber has come up with some ideas for a new name and logo for the campaign, but decided to hold thc competition to give lhe community input. The rules for the campaign consist of: Creating a name and logo for the branding campaign. Entrants are encouraged lo use lhe beauty of Barry County as inspiration. The competition is free of charge and open to all people, regardless of age. One entry is allowed per person. All submissions are due by Monday, Aug. 17. Participants arc asked to email their name and logo to aleshia^mibarry.com. A panel will judge all submissions, and a winner will be announced by Friday, .Aug. 21. The winner of the competition will receive recognition for creating the name and logo for lhe marketing campaign, as well as $100 in Hastings library Wi-Fi to get boost er $13,(MX) or so in donations the library received late last year which had not yet been The signal r S'"^hTwiT:> h<”’Pl>l spent. Hustings Public! k’ * j, getting a boost, just "We have other technology needs, but those approved |Monday | were our highest priori­ in time for the . ,* r‘' school year. The library K1’"? Monday approved the ty,” Hetnerling said. "We are still deciding wiring of t^o^v-H Uxisiers as pan ot a what would be the best use of the remaining series of technni * kited actions that also money.” ........ Ihe Hastings library Wi-Fi was recently included on a new statewide Wi-Fi hotspot "We haL'1’1"^ sWll t • parking lot and on map to assist residents who lack internet ^uS<,plc.inv&."ur Tp'" access at home The map was released by the Slate ol Michigan in partnership with Library Djr. are I he libr^'“r ^J -ised a SIOXXM) gift Connected Nation Michigan. Ihe library from an anUlL * r w uscl1 '*,r ,CC‘‘ hotsjxH received 18223 uses during ihe 2018 19 hscal year, Hetnerling said. GrcgCl>a,,(1;l‘'r roommate Tina Salas. State trooper dies of injuries after being struck in Ionia County Area locations to purchase the Hastings Banner! Hating? Jesse James Thompson of Lake Odessa is facing an open murder charge in lhe death of his girlfriend, coworker and Barry' Bucks, which can be spent al participat­ ing businesses around Barry County. More information on the competition can be found on the chamber’s Facebook page al facebook.com/barrychambcreda. Marriage Licenses Paul William Haqier, Chicago, IL and Brenna Jenae Bricker. Champaign, IL Jeremy Noah Ryan. Middleville and Tia Marie Ritzema. Allendale Morgan Elizabeth Thomas, Bellevue and Kody Robert Simmons. Hastings Makay Andrew Mark wart. Woodhind and Lauren Elaine Hazel. Woodland Alexandra Rae Peterson.Traverse City and Jessie Douglas Snyder. Middleville Kristina X Mkoy an, Chicago. IL and James Malcolm Flora,Chicago, IL Colt Travis Nichols. Hastings and Abigail Justine Scholten, Hastings Brittany .Ann Dunn, Hastings and Robert Lee Bassler. Hastings Ixah Kay Shaeffer, Delton and Brogan Keith Smith, Delton I’avid Leslie Gorman. Okemos and Kimberly Jo Harden. Hastings Lyndy Song Prior. Hastings and Timothy James C ullin. Way land 1 Codey Ix-c Clewed. Shelbyville and Hannah (. laire Wright, Hastings Block Michael Hileman. Middleville and Kirstie Lynn Hayward, Jackson Ronald Ray South* iek 111, Middleville and Jessica .Ann I.vans. Middleville Megan Ann Bitman. Hastings and Justice David Lamance. Hastings Albert Janies Sehut. Hastings A Lynn I antz, Hastings ’ �Big CPOO'S Brvtt Bremer 1 v .. Spt,rh uram will bi T. 'r1’181’ ''Cho°l foo,ba" I”"’ gram w >11 lx the firsi <>n lhv field f 1 ( panthers to open the 2()2().2l)21 sdlo<, ‘ ,c h just won’t be on - rhe Field" qllitc. Lnm ? aniGcial turf .s teady KM play on the football field at Delton Kellogg High School, but wnh construction around the stadium ongoing the Panthers will have to gel a few practices mto the season before they can ukc to the turt. Thc opening week of high school football practice is scheduled to begin at 7 a.m. Monday (Aug. 12) in Delton on ihe grass tootball practice field at the high school. Practice win nut until 11:45 a.rn. Monday through Friday in lhe week ahead. “Our field is done, but thc area around it is still considered a hard hat area so kids can’t be down there,” Delton Kellogg High School athletic director Mike Mohn said Wednesday morning. “The track should be completed this week and the asphalt going from the drive to the field should be done next week, along with the middle school parking lol. Once that has been completed, we should be good to go. “The field won’t be ready for our first week of official practice, but maybe by thc second. That’s our goal. The kids are more than excit­ ed to gel on that thing.” Of lhe five high schools in Barry County three now feature artificial turf on their high school football fields, Delton Kellogg, Hastings and Thomapple Kellogg. It isn’t only the football players who arc excited to get on the new turf. Soccer goals already sit along the west sideline. The sideline cheer team will also being practice at Delton Kellogg Monday, practic­ ing each day next week from 5 p.m. until 6:15 pjn. on the grass soccer field in Delton. Volleyball, boys’ soccer and cross country practice begin Wednesday. Cross Country practices begins at 9 a.m. Wednesday through Friday next week in the auxiliary gym parking lot at thc high school. The high school volley­ ball team will begin practicing on the football practice field from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Soccer practice will be on the grass soccer field from 7 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Middle school dates and times in Delton arc still undecided. “Lots of stuff for coaches to think about as opposed to just coachin’ em up,” Mohn said. “I can’t imagine how tough it is right now for kids and coaches as they prepare for their upcoming seasons. Are we going to play? Will we play lhe first scheduled games/contests on the date that they arc originally sched­ uled? Will we push things back to later in the month or into September? Will we be playing wintcr/eariy spring for fall seasons?” ‘ “FoctrsriigTh erfwtart wc can acntnHy con­ trol will be a very important part of our coach­ es and kid’s preparation going into this sea­ son. Going to be interesting to say the least.” Very little is certain now. The MHSAA announced a number of precautions, with some specific information for each sport, last month. Cross country meets will be limited to 70 runners. Golf tournaments will be limited lo 72 competitor at an 18-hole site. Soccer, swimming and diving, tennis and volleyball tournaments and invitationals arc limited to four teams at a site. “Regular season dual/ head-to-head matchups, between multiple levels of two different schools, are not affect­ ed,” the MHSAA has stated in a July 29 release. Dial MHSAA release went on to add. "when determining the number of teams pres­ ent at a tournament, count thc school's varsity team as one team, and its JV team as a second team, l he goal is to achieve physical distanc­ ing at all possible times*, teams not in compe­ tition should Ik* provided adequate space, and spectator limitations must be followed. Consider staggered contest and team arrival times to maintain physical distancing." What kind of limitations there will be on lhe number of spectators is still up in the air. Thomapple Kellogg High School band direc­ tor Ray Rickcrtt said Wednesday morning he is not sure how marching bands may or may not fit into a 2020 football season. Currently, lhe MHSAA has said that boys’ golf and girls’ tennis in the lower peninsula may begin competition on the regularly scheduled Aug. 19 date and cross country teams may begin competitions Aug. 21. A decision is due by Aug. 20 as to when foot­ ball. volleyball and boys’ soccer programs, which arc considered high-risk sports, may begin competition. High school teams are still not permitted to practice or compete indoors in Michigan. Hastings High School and Thomapple Kellogg High School joined Delton Kellogg in releasing practice plans this week. The Thornapple Kellogg athletic department stat­ ed that ihe only possible reason student-ath­ letes would go indoors would be to avoid inclement weather. Student-athletes at the high school and middle school levels must all have a physical on file with the school office before practicing or competing with the team. Student-athletes that have a physical on file with the school from the 2019-20 school year may sign a waiver to have that take the place of an updat­ ed 2020-21 physical. "Due to the on going pandemic, many pre­ cautions will be taken lo insure coaches’ and athletes’ safety.” wrote lhe Hastings athletic department in its practice schedule release this week. “Those precautions will all be dis­ cussed at each teams’ first practice, but will include, lhe use of masks, social distancing, temperature checks, facility use. cleaning pro­ tocols. Please understand that things are fluid, and changes can and will occur constantly and fast‘rimwte‘.sWe are all doing our best.” • ----Here is first practice information for the fall season in Hastings: Hastings Fall Practices Contact athletic director Mike Goggins with questions at mike.goggins^hassk 12.org or call 269 838-5010. HwtMTOMMBJMMPia • DK” adorns the lil?e on the new turf on the football field at Delton Kellogg High School. Installation of the turf is complete but construction around ie ield continues. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Varsity Football Ajig. p) _ jqgjj house opens at 6:45a.ni.. Practice, 7:00 a.m.. 9:00 a,m., and 11:00 aMJo 2:00 p.m. Meet at Field house (next lo Tennis Courts). Coach: Jamie Murphy jnwrphyfq hasskl2.org or 269 804-2739. J V Football - Monday Aug. 10 - Practice. 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Meet at Field house (next to HS Tennis Courts). Freshman Football - Aug- 10 - Practice, 8 a.m. (o 11 a.m. Meet ht house (next to HS Tennis Courts). Voile) ball - Wednesday Aug. 12. Varsity JV. freshman tryouts 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Coach: Tiffany Hendershot 269 269 838-6805 Meet at Hastings HS Athletic Entrance. Girls Swimming and Diving - Wednesday STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Trust tn the matter of The James Lee Johnson and Irene Gayle Johnson revocable Living Trust. Date of Birth: November 12.1941. TO ALL CREDITORS­ NOTICE TO CREDITORS The decedent. Irene Gayle Johnson, surviving Trustee, died July 15, 2020 leaving the above Trust in full force and effect. • Creditors of the decedent or against lhe Trust are notified that all claims against the decedent or trust will be forever barred unless presented to William E. Johnson. Trustee, within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: July 29,2020 Rhoades McKee PC Stephanie S Fekkes P43549 150 W. Court Street, Ste. A Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-1921 145259 NOTICE TO THE RESIDENTS OF BARRY COUNTY Notice is hereby given that the Barry County Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing for the following: Caso Number: SP-4-2020 — Verizon Wire­ less (Applicant); Michael & Beatrice Colo (Prop­ erty Owners) Location: East Hobbs Road. Delton, in Section enaiiPd endnew zone attball the play Delton Kellogg • Panthers.. •isspel ed outt in white in the maroon jn p)ace north and the foo ciocks are High School football he • £ athletes can take the field again. (Photo by Brett ready for the time when siuuc Bremer) Heritage Day run goes virtual, adds ‘Get Active' bingo game can be done through die jmylaprcxag I web’/He- Those new challenges come in the form of a “Gel Active. Slay Active” bingo card By completing an activity on the bingo card like hiking a trail or kayaking the river, race registrants can put an “X” on their canJ All race registrants will receive this year’s blue tic-dye "River Run” shirt and a bingo card with chances to win over 30 raffle prizes I-vcry lime a participant completes a bingo they will be entered for a chance to win i reward that also supports a local business ‘ Theic will not he trophies or medals awarded this year. The cost to register is $25 lor adults and <20 for kids under 13 years old. l>roeee(J from ihi» ‘-•ve,u hcIP su',l.xlr' rAPRc aild youth l>roB“‘"lnlnE U* Middleville conmnuiitj- Aug. 12th. Practice 3:00-5:30pm CERC Pool. Open to Hastings, Middleville -Thomapple Kelloge and Delton Kellogg girls. Coach: Carl Schoessel 269 838-8407. Boys Varsity and JV Soccer - Wednesday Aug. 12th. JV and varsity tryouts 3:30 to 5:30 on Pierce Field (behind the HS). Coach: Franny Lopez 269 953-3502. Boys Tennis - Thursday Aug. 13, Practice 3:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. at thc high school tennis conns. Coach: Krista Schueller 716-417­ 2671. Cross Country - Wednesday Aug. 12 10 a.m. - 12 a.m. Meet near the Main entrance of the Football Stadium. Coach: Steve Collins 269-804-7156. Girls Golf - Wednesday Aug. 12, Practice 9 ajn. - li a.m. at the Legacy Golf Course (formerly Hastings Country Club). Coach: Kristen Laubaugh 269-320-3248. Sideline Cheer - Wednesday Aug. 12, 5* p.m. to 7 p.m. at T^den Park, in Hastings^ Tryouts for all 9th thru 12th graders. Coach; Lindsey Jacinto 269-838-2150. 7th and 8th grade Football - This is a co-op with H YA A. Practice begins Aug. 24. Contact: TJCappon 616-648-3008. ’ UMS volleyball &. cross country - Hastings Middle School girls’ volleyball for seventh and eighth graders, and boys’ and girls’ cross’ country for sixth, seventh and eighth grader? ' will open practice on the third day of school, from 3:15 p.m. until 5:15 p.m. Call 948-4409 for more information. LEGAL NOTICES Hastings. Ml 49058 (269)945-1921 William E. Johnson c/o Rhoades McKee PC, 159 W. Court Street, Ste. A 5K/10K will go on as a virtual run. Participants in (he annual 5K/10K Heritage Day River Run will get to choose the time and the trail for their event. Runners who complete their run may then send in the date and tlieir run time lime to the Jliomapple Area Parks and Recreation Commission for recording. The run can Ik* done on a (rail, Beigliborhocxl streets for even a ueadm’dl. Runners must register online by midnight. Aug. 15. but they have until midnight on Labor Day (Sept. 7) lo complete their run as HeJJ as some new challenges. Registration 13 times fo£first fall practices .'tfyk j While the summer festival season was thrown into a tizzy by the global coronavirius pandemic, the Middleville Heritage Day Hastings Banner -~ Thursday. August 6,2020 — Page 16 of Johnstown Township Purpose: Requesting a special USG perrnit l0 place a wireless communication tower per Article 23 Section 2386 in lhe RR (Rufal Residential) zoninci district J Caso Number: SP-5-2020 - Roger & Michelle Licdcke (Property Owners) Location: 663 East Freeport Road. Freeport, in Section 5 of Carlton Townsh’p Purpose: Requesting a special Use permit to operate a Kennel per Article 23. Section 2343 in the A (Agriculture) zoning distnet August 24. 2020. . 7;00 PM. ELACE: Tydcn Center, Community Room 121 South Church Street, Hastings, Mich|gan 4905g Site inspections of the above describe^ properties will be completed by tbe a in9 Commission members before the hearing. '™cr6sted persons desiring to present their views appeal, either verbally or in writing, will be 9,vt .ne opportunity to be heard at the above mentonco p ace and time Any wntten response ^7 '^led to tho address listed below J® > 948-4820. or emailed to Barry County ^JXuntv^0' Jamcs McManus at The special use appKcaW 5 Irapedion at tho Bany County' <1 for public >9 Department, 220 West State Street. 49056, during th0 hou/b of 8 a m 10 pining [S“y ‘ Fnday Please can the Barty County Jt •269) S4S.I2.3!) for forth* „p The County of Bony a.. c; "ece^ry auxrtory aids and services. 5 rpf|f0^ for the heanng Impaired andau^^. t0 <na(i’”.ler'a's being considered at the disabilities at tho meelingj*3fry <10> days notice to the County aisabihlies requiring aux*113^ Py writing Q/‘s'ouW contact the Count? o< fo.low.ng Michael Brown. ^jgan 4905I West State Street Hast.ng3 (2u9) 945 128-1 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY dr BARRY % x ‘ NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate FILE NO. 20-28557-DE Estate of Terry J. Rose, Deceased. Date cf birth: May 2,1987. TO ALL CREDITORS­ NOTICE TO CREDITORS: Tho decedent, Terry J Rose. d:ed May 1.2020. Creditors of lhe decedent aro notified that all daims against the estate wilt bo forever barred unless presented to Sarah Rose, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings. Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date. August 4,2020 Benjamin W. Mills Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman, PLLC P66155 99 Monroe Avenue, NW, Suite 800 Grand Rapids, Ml 49503 616-235-5500 Sarah Rose 710 Balsam Dnve Hastings, Ml 49058 (269)331-9553 145466 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961.1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212. that tho following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of tho mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on August 13, 2020. Tho amount due on the mortgage may bo greater on the day of the sale. Placing the highest bid at tho sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser Is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. MORTGAGE: Mortgagor(s): Dale D. Bursloy, a married man and Kay K. Bursley, his wife Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (“MERS’’), solely as nominee for lender and lender's successors and assigns Date of mortgage: August 21,2006 Recorded on August 29,2006, in Document No. 1169291, Foreclose Assignee (if any): NowRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing Amount claimed to be due at the date hereof: Seventy-One Thousand Three Hundred Thirteen and 12/100 Dollars ($71,313.12) Mortgaged premises: Situated tn Barry County, and described as: Lot 11 and tho West 3 feet of Lot 10, Block 2 of the Plat of the Village of Woodland, according to tho recorded Plat thereof, as recorded in Uber 1 of Plats on Page 21. Commonly known as 153 Thatcher St. Woodland. Ml 40897 The redemption period wi.’l bo 6 months from the date of such sale, unless abandoned under MCL 600.3241a. in which case the redemption period will bo 30 days from the date of such sate, or 15 days from the MCL 600.3241a(b) notice, whichever is later; or unless extinguished pursuant to MCL 600.3238. If die above referenced property is sold at a foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of Act 236 of 1961, under MCL 600.3278. the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at tho mortgage* foreclosure sale or to tne mortgage holder for damaging the property dunng tho redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you aro a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago. or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for tne party foreclosing the mortgage al tho telephone number stated in this notice. NewRez LLC d/b/a She' po-nt Mortgage Servicing Mortgagoe/Assignee Schne»deanan & Shennan RC. 23938 Research Dr, Suite 300 Farmington Huis, Ml 40335 248.539.7400 RameU a. Palmer. Bany 145302 1418125 (07 !6)(0rl-C6) 144321 .„ STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL CIRCUIT - FAMILY DIVISION BARRY COUNTY • ! PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING FOR NAME CHANGE . CASE NO. AND JUDGE f 20-28567-NC 206 W. Court Street, Suite 302 Hastings. Ml 49058 ; Court Telephone: 269-945-1390 In the matter cf Joseph Stewart West. TO ALL PERSONS, including: whose address la unknown and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: i TAKE NOTICE: A hearing will be held on 8/19/2020 C 2 p.m. at 206 V/. Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings. Ml 49058 before Judge William M. Doherty to change the name of Joseph Stewart West to Evelyn Uhth West STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate FILE NO. 20-28478-DE r Estate of Samuel Lee Smith Sr. Date of birth: 12­ 03-1944 TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: Tho decedent. Samuel Lee Smith Sr., died 02-21-2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Linda Van Lake, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 08-06-2020 Linda Van Lake 1380 W. Valley Rd. Lansing, Ml 48906 (517)977-5697 145460 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF CALHOUN PUBLICATION NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Trust Estate In the matter of the Gera'd E. Lyttio Living Trust dated Moy 11,2012. Decedent s date of birth: 05-29-1934. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Your interest in this nutter may bo barred or aftseted py the following: The decedent. Gerald E. Lyttle, lived in Bany County, Hastings. M chigan. and d ed on 06-20-2020 Creditors of tho deceased are notified that aH decedent's assets were he.'d by the Trustee at decedent’s death, and the decedent has no probate estate. Creditors of th^ deceased are funner notified that all ciaims against the trust estate wiit ba forever barred unless presented to; Robert L. Lywe, Sr.. Trustee nnd'or tne attorney's office represent ng Robert L. Lyttle, Sr., mo Trustee within 4 months of the pubtca:;on of this notice. This nol.ca is pub shed pursuant to MCL 700.7608. If a prebate? Estato is opened m tho future for one decedent, mia notice is intended to satisfy th? requ rementu of MCL 700.3801. Notice Is further given that the trust estate vU ’ be ttwafter ass'gned and distributed to the personal enttied to »tDate July 30,2020 Housley Peters Law Office PC . J DijneK. Peters P52818 905 W Michgan A\e , Su la A Marshal. Michigan 4906-T (269) 248-6500 Robed I.. Lyttle. Sr. 1451 E. Fifer Road, Dowfcng, Mi 49050 (2691908-0518 , 145335 ’ �Rage 14 Thursday. August 6. 2020 - - The Hawings Banr. rage ta — Thursday. Auaust b. zuzu - . Car parade entertains nursing home residents v . .. .* T LVoiwFum'L Luke Froncheck Sniff Writer . . A young boy held a “We Miss on sign from the sunroof of an SL'V M it paraded past Hastings Rehabilitation and Healthcare center aid then on lo Wixxilawn Meadows .... — _t He was joined by other passengers and drivers during a parade Friday to entertain nursing home residents, who in years past were heated to a car show. ^ u,1»eru ’crnUs 1K truck* ]'Su, trucks n,ul 51 shenfFs i _ 'Hb; rnf*». »•* department n ' .icpHty P«H>ng a boat paraded p,s. .homes Thc iwnj.on R’r ;'bo"1 15 "’"’u,es as resident,. lanns <>' sidewalks and v. ;1(< ht-d. t । it ^htnrinp [he pair normally puts on a tar show lor the and v. ak s vehicles passed, horns blaring. •’* (Ihrd ,)•, avehicles n.’isscd. horns OianiH • * nursing i _ home residents . hutbut Were in latefnlv July were f hildren leaned from car windows 'liableto do so this year because of concerns throwing candy at the feet of their spectators. around COVID 19. So. instead, they arranged 1 he parade was organized by John Rcsseguie Sr. suid Howard ‘Hoof’ Gibson. a car parade. r A nursing home resident waves an American flag as a classic car passes him. So many vehicles were in 11,13 Parade that by the time the leaders were done with the procession the rear of the line was just beginning. R’>^£T-’77rrTS— K::.. -Z; , T-C Nursing home residents line the parking lot at Hastings Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Hastings for Friday’s parade. HASTINGS HIGH SCHOOL & MIDDLE SCI fALL^ A resident holds an American flag and a sunflower as she watches the parade proceed past. SPIRTS FIRST PRACTICE INFORMATION Due to the ongoing pandemic, many precautions will bo taken to insure coaches' and athletes' safety. Those precautions will all be discussed at each loam's first practice but will include the use of masks, social distancing, temperature checks, facility use, cleaning protocols. Please understand that things are fluid, and changes can and will occur constantly and last minute. We are all doing our best! All athletes must have a completed physical on file in the school office In order to practice, However, if you had a physical for athletics last year and it is on file in the school office, that will be acceptable with an additional waiver signed. Athletes will receive the waiver on the first day of practice. If a new physical Is needed, physical forms are available In the HS office, MS office and the administration office. FIRST DAY OF PRACTICE INFO Varsity Football - Monday, Aug. 10 - Field house opens at 6:45am. Practice, 7-9am, and 11am to 2pm. Meet at Field house (next to HS Tennis Courts). Coach: Jamie Murphy jmurphy@hassk12.org or 269-804-2739. JV Football-Monday, Aug. 10-Practice, 8-11am. Meet at Field house (next lo HS Tennis Courts). Three red cars parade through the Hastings Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center parking [qj jn Hastings. A young boy waves at nursing home residents as he passes by. Freshman Football - Monday, Aug. 10 - Practice, 8-11 am. Meet at Field house (next to HS Tennis Courts). Volleyball - Wednesday, Aug. 12 - Varsity, JV, Freshman Tryouts, 4-7pm. Coach: Tiffany Hendershot, 269-838-6805. Meet at Hastings HS Athletic Entrance. Giris Swim - Wednesday. Aug. 12 - Practice 3-5:30pm CERC Pool. Open to Hastings, Middleville - Thornapple Kellogg and Delton Kellogg girls. Coach: Carl Schoessel, 269-838-8407. Boys Varsity and JV Soccer - Wednesday, Aug. 12 - JV and Varsity Tryouts, 3:30-5:30pm on Pierce Field (behind the HS). Coach: Franny Lopez, 269-953-3502. Boys Tennis - Thursday, Aug. 13 - Practice, 3:30-5:30pm at the HS Tennis Courts. Coach, Krista Schueller, 716-417-2671. Cross Country - Wednesday. Aug. 12. 10am-12pm. Meet near tho Main . entrance of the Football Stadium. Coach: Steve Collins, 269-804-7156. Girls Goll - Wednesday. Aug. 12 - Practice 9-10am at the Legacy Golf ■ Course (formerly Hastings Country Club). Coach: Kristen Laubaugh, 269- < 320-3248. Sideline Cheer - Wednesday. Aug. 12, 5-7pm at Tyden Park in Hastings. Tryouts for ail 9th through 12th graders. Coach: Lindsey Jacinto, 269-838­ 2150. 7th and 8th Grade Football - This is a co-op with HYAA. Practice begins Aug. 24. Contact: TJ Cappon, 616 648-3008. MS 7th and Sth Girls Volleyball and 6th, 7th, 8th Boys and Giris Cross Country practices will begin the 3rd day of school, 3:15-5:15prn. .Athletic Director: Mike Goggins, 269-838-5010 or 269-948-4409. For questions please contact Athletic Director Mike Goggins at mlke4KKjginfi@bafifik12.Qxg or call 269-838-soio "*^8 Mayor ^VrS R<'Sbl?9'”0 Mt Pf"adeS 'hr°U9h Has,ings Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Hastings with � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-08-13.pdf c7beb6c6b4ce25a18554b5046b4b1f83 PDF Text Text Hastings Public Library 227 E State Street Hastings Ml 49058 Local camp linked to 37 COVID-19 cases One virus is making another °ne Worse See Story on Page 3 See Edito^ page 4 Prep football practice begins See Story on Page 12 804879110187 1070490102590504407349058195427 Jury finds Burnett guilty on all counts Taylor Owens State ag leaders hosting virtual meeting today The future of Michigan agriculture, especially trade and supply chains, will be the focus of an online meeting today. Aug. 13, at 11 a.m. The conversation is pan of the AgTalks town hall series focusing on key U.S. ag states. State and national agricultural ccmmodity leaders will discuss emerging | developments and opportunities and will ' take questions from participants. Facilitators will include Terry Henne. farm broadcaster at WSGW Radio in Saginaw and contributing reporter for Michigan Ag Today, as moderator, and co-host Jody E. Pollok-Newsom. execu­ tive director of the Michigan Wheat Program. Among the panelists will be co-ho.st Dave Milligan, president of the National Association of Wheat Growers; Laurie A. Tannous. special adviser to Cross Border Institute and vice president of governmera relations for Furrow’;-J,cue-M. Jimenez, vice president of commercial and market development al Zeeland Farm Services Inc.; Joe Cramer, executive director of Michigan Bean Commission; and Chuck Lippstreu. president of Michigan Agri-Business Association. Local producers may sign up for the meeting at https: 7p2a.co 3woEgyX. Unity for Hastings vigil planned Sunday /X vigil is planned Sunday, Aug. 16, from noon to 3 p.m. on the Barry County Courthouse lawn Organizer Brad Smith said the event is being held as a public demonstration in solidarity toward those who have lost their lives due lo police brutality nation­ wide. Speakers and educational materials will be available to attendees. The event was originally planned for July 12. but had to be postponed so Smith could get the proper insurance required by county officials. Masks are mandatory and people are expected lo maintain social distance, if more than 100 people gather, the event will be cut to an hour long. Smith said. Staff Writer A Barry County jury convicted Jon Burnett on all 35 charges, including two counts of first-degree murder, after about seven hours of deliberation Wednesday. Burnell testified Tuesday that he shot and killed 73-year-old Gary' Peake and 21-yearold Bryce DeGood, but claimed he did so in self-defense. The jury did not believe him. When jurors relumed to the courtroom after seven hours of deliberations. Judge Michael Schipper asked them: “Have you reached a unanimous verdict on all 35 charges?** As the verdict was read on each count, the DeGood family members wept. His parents held hands; his mother was visibly shaking. Burnett did not react. Additional guilty verdicts included unlaw­ ful imprisonment of DeGood, attempted mur­ der of Joseph Pou ell. two counts of assaulting a police officer and multiple counts of assault with a dangerous weapon and committing felonies with a firearm. “He made a self-absorbed, selfish, hateful, awful decision that day - over and over,” Barry' County Prosecutor Julie Nakfoor-Pratt said during her closing arguments. “He was mad at the world. He was tired of people.’’ ’Hie jury found Burnett guilty of first-de­ gree, premeditated murder in the death of his next-door neighbor and friend, Gary Peake. ’ In tftecas.e of Peake, who was killed in his own homer Pratl pointed to the weapons and ammunition Burnett had brought to Peake’s house. Burnett already had his wife’s pistol when he attacked her outside their home in Orangeville Township earlier that day. After fighting with his wife. Burnett went into their house, where his wife testified that he changed out the rounds in tivcir shotgun. Burnett then walked over to Peake’s house, which he said took about 10 minutes. Burnett told the jury he could not remember what he was thinking during those 10 minutes, and denied carrying the shotgun. One witness. Keith Ramsey, said he saw Burnett, walking in the middle of the road with a shotgun. The shotgun also was found near the rock Burnett had staked out after shooting DeGood. Prosecutor Julie Nakloor Pratt address­ es the jurors during her closing argument Tuesday. “He made a self-absorbed, . selfish, hateful.'e.yful decision that day - over and over." . - Prosecutor I Julie Nakfoor Pratt --------- ,--------------- .jp—.—_j ■-------------------- ■ -r Pratt also emphasized that Peake did not have a gun next to him when he was found. Burnell had testified that he believed Peake was pulling a gun out of a safe to shoot him. What was found under Peake’s body was a pamphlet with the instructions on how to open the safe containing the AK-47 that Burnell said he owned and wanted back. “Mr. Peake died violently, hatefully, inten­ tionally. at his hands - armed with a pam­ Massive housing project raises traffic safety concerns The Hastings Area Schools Board of Education is scheduled to meet in-person for the first time in five months. Board members are slated lo meet for their regular meeting in the middle school commons area at 7 pan. Monday night. Superintendent Dan Remenap said board members will consider handbooks for the upcoming school year. They also will be introduced to staff and consider a tax levy resolution. When interviewed Wednesday, Remenap was unable to say if attendance would be limited Free drive-through COVID-19 testing will be available to local residents. Barry-Eaton District Health Department staff said 200 lusts will be administered on a drive-through basis starting at 3 p.m. Aug. 18. See NEWS BRIEFS, page 2 phlet.” Pratl said. She believed Burnett shot Peake once in the leg. while he was bent over in front of the safe, because Peake wasn’t moving fast enough. Peake then turned around, and Burnett shot him five more times. Pratl said, including in the top of the head, perhaps while he was collapsing. In the case of DeGood, she pointed to Tracy Schisser’s testimony that she and her son. Garrett, saw Burnett shoot DeGood in the back. The Schissers testified that they saw Burnett shoot DeGood, who fell, then made him gel up and raise his hands above his head. Burnett then forced DeGood to walk 130 feci with his hands up. before he shot him in the back of the head, at point-blank range, Pratt said. She asked the jury to think about how long it took DeGood to walk that distance, and See GUILTY, page 3 Schools brace for roller coaster year Hastings school board to meet in person Free COVID-19 tests offered Tuesday in Hastings Jon Burnett of Orangeville Township, shown here during cross-examination Tuesday, was found guilty of all counts Wednesday. Development targets 159 acres northwest_ ofBarry County Greg ('handler Stuff Writer Officials in southeastern Kent County are weighing a developer s proposal for nearly 400 new residential units, as other housing development projects are taking shape further down the M-37 corridor. ('.rand Rapids-ba'" J^Mbrook Homes is seeking approval Gaines charter Township officials lor a pkmnc<| unh deve|op. mem that calls lor “ f ^gk-f^jiy homes, 17.S dwelling units wi h n 4() minium buildings ana iQfCe oulparcd honie sites. . Iloweser. some of an adj(,inillg subdmsion are » >k lt( ,h(. Ak.xaI1jcr I rad. project Ik-WU* of p|ans |q a See H0USINg page 3 Luke Froncheck Stuff Writer Barry County educators are preparing for a school year unlike any other. That much they know. School boards have been meeting, town hall sessions with parents have taken place and parents are offering feedback and asking questions in anticipation of the upcoming year. “Il is going to be very, very’ different this school year,” Thornapplc Kellogg Superintendent Robert Blitchok said, “and we’re going lo have lo be very , very nimble and prepared to deal with individual situa­ tions.0 All five Barry’ County school districts have released back-lo school plans in some form.’fhe Barry Intermediate School District also released its plan for the upcoming school y ear. “I’m willing to die on a hill for our kids coming to school on .Aug. 24 - and nothing short of an executive order from our gover­ nor w ill change that.” Hastings Superintendent Dail Remenap told middle school parents during an Aug. 5 virtual town hull meeting. Each district is offering online and in per­ son learning options, requiring ma'ks foi students in grades six through 12 aiuJ every district is committing to starting sch<M)l by Sept. 7. District officials are asking parents check their kids daily to make sure they don’t exhibit any signs of illness. All schools arc approaching the start of school with plans that follow the state guide­ lines. Hastings and Maple Valley districts held a series of meetings to answer parent ques­ tions. Delton Kellogg intends to separate stu­ dents into “pods” to limit student exposure lo other students and simplify contact tracing should anyone lest positive foi COVID-19. Weekly mental health checks for students also are a part of the plan. Burry Intermediate Scluxvl District has committed to offering online learning when­ ever possible. “I thank you for your patience and under­ standing as we plan to provide the best pos­ sible experience (or y our children as we keep the health and safely o! everyone involved in mind.’’ Delton Kellogg Superintendent Kyle Corlett told parents in a Facebook post. “‘No risk’ doesn't exist in the world,’’ Remenap told parents in a town hall session last week. ‘But school opening is vital.” See inside for more information on backto-scliooi plans �Burnett tells jury about killing two men Page .. |fV-i &Q&' Cm Barry County District C°urt Judge Mlchael Schipper asks Jon Burnett additional questions during Prosecutor Jufie Nakfoor Pratt s cross examination. Jon Burnett testifies before his defense attorney, Shane McNeill. Burnett was the final witness of the trial, which lasted six days. Thyior Owens Staff Writer Across three hours of testimony. Jon Burned described shooting and killing Gary Peake and Bryce DeGood in Orangeville Township 14 months ago. Burned also claimed to have large gaps in his memory . Testifying Tuesday at his trial in BarryCounty District Court, Burnett said June 21. 2019, started out “just like any other day.” Erin Schrepper, who had stayed at the Burnett home the previous fall, came to pick up belongings still on the property after Burnett had kicked her out of the house. She had stayed with the Burnetts for six weeks. Barry County Prosecutor Julie Nakfoor Pratt asked Burnett if he was upset with Schrepper, for letting someone steal and crash the Burnett's vehicle into a power pole, which resulted in the Burnetts facing a $12,000 law­ suit from Consumers Energy. Burnett said he hadn’t thought about the bill in a long time, since his wife Lynne told him she was handling it. He did say he gave continued from front page The event is scheduled to run until 7 p.m., but tests, limited to 200. will be pro­ vided on a first-come first-served basis. The drive-through testing, at 1230 \V. State St.. Hastings, will be free, and insur­ ance will not be billed, according to Sarah Suma. community health promotion spe­ cialist with the health department. People seeking a test are asked to wear a face covering and bring a driver’s license or an ID card. Results will be provided within MyChart through the Spectrum Health computer system app. Testing is being made possible by fund­ ing from the Spectrum Health Foundation, Barry County United Way. Barry County Emergency Management, and the Barry County Chamber of Commerce. City’s drop box out of order Hastings City Hall drop box was true to its name. It dropped, rusted through, and fell over. City officials art working to replace it as quickly as possible. Until it is replaced, residents have options for paying city-re­ lated bills or delivering other paperwork to city hall. They may mail paperwork to the City of Hastings, 201 E. State St., Hastings 49058; use the drive-through on (he north side of city hall (the right lane is available during business hours); pay bills online with a credit card or electronic check pay­ ment or use auto bill pay (forms arc on the city website, hastingsmi.org): or call 269­ 945-2468, with the parcel or account number and credit card information ready. If necessary- to enter the building to py in person: individuals are asked to wear face masks, abide by the 6 loot social distancing requirements and follow the markings on the floor as to where to stand and walk. Schrepper a hug, and told her he was proud of her for going to rehab, then followed with “But I still hate your f—ing guts.” What happened afterward is Burnett’s first gap in memory of what took place that day. He said he did not remember going info the house to get a gun or threatening to shoot Schrepper and the two women who accompa­ nied her to get her things. He also said he didn’t remember threaten­ ing his wife with the gun or getting in a phys­ ical fight with her. but he said he didn’t doubt his wife’s testimony about the attack. Lynne Burnett had also said she saw him go in the house, where he changed out shells in a shot­ gun. then she heard him shoot off some rounds. Bumett said the next thing he recalled-was walking a trail to Gan Peake’s home for a friendly visit. Burnett said he had been friends with Peake for 33 years. They shared a mutual interest in guns and military' history and together would watch military shows on the History Channel. They sometimes had breakfast or lunch together, and even worked together for a while. Their friendship had dropped off in the past five years, since Peake quit drinking and start­ ed attending Alcoholics Anonymous. Burnett, who said he drank every day. did not want to be an enabler. Burnett said he had three glasses of whis­ key and water the day of the shootings. He had a blood alcohol concentration level of 0.148 when he was arrested. He also had his wife’s pink handgun in his back pocket when he went to Peake’s house. He said he always carried a gun when he went walking in the woods. Peake was in his barn, and they struck up a conversation, Bumctt said. He asked Peake about the AK-47 Burnett had loaned to him, and Peake invited him inside his house to look for it. Peake, who was a competitive marks­ man. had five of Burnett’s guns at the time. Burnett said Peake would hike the guns apart, clean them and tune them. He had loaned Peake his guns countless times over the course of 25 years. Burnett said. Peake, who had around 110 guns in his home, had two large safes in a comer room, where he kept the rifles. After looking in one safe. Peake told him he could not find the AK-47, Burnett testified. Burnett then made a comment he has since come to regret, he testified. He told Peake he did not want his z\K-47 and other guns going to Peake s daughter if something happened to him. Burnett told Peake his daughter would sell his possessions, because she would not want to live in his “raggedy’’ house. Burnett said it was the kind of comment hd had made “hundreds” of times to Peake, bu( this time it apparently set Peake off. “He spun around and tackled inc.’’ Bumctt told his defense attorney, Shane McNeill. “He caught me by suqmse.” Burnett said he was knocked onto a clut­ tered pile of items, and kicked Peake off of him. Then Peake threatened him, he said. “JB, you’ll never make it across the yard.” Burnett recalled Peake saying, using his ini­ tials as a nickname, as the friends tended to do. “Dial’s when I got scared,’’ Burnett testi­ fied. “A chill went right down my spine.’’ Peake began reaching into safe, Burnett said. He couldn’t see what Peake was doing, but he believed Peake was trying to put a loaded magazine into a handgun. “GP, I’m not playing around, take your hands out of that safe.’’ Burnell said he told Peake, multiple times Still sitting on the cluttered pile, and con­ vinced Peake would shrxrt him, Burnett said he pulled out his wife’s pink pistol and shot Defense attorney Shane McNeill while Prosecutor Julie bikfoor. Pratt cross?ex- amines his clietw .. Peake multiple tines. “I just saw artbrange muzzle Hash, and the room filled witlmnoke,” Burnett said. Peake was slot six times, including in the legs, chest and top of his head. Bumett testified Tuesday he did not know where Peake Xts hit. or even that he was dead, which conflicted with his statements to police when he was arrested. “I didn’t seethe blood. I didn’t see Gary fall, I just saw the photos, like everybody else.” Bumett testified. “Il was dark and dingy and chaotic.” Nakfoor-Pratt asked Bumett why Peake’s body was found near the doorway of the room, not near the safes. Bumett said he did not know. She asked why Bumett had testified in a previous hearing that part of the confrontation had taken place in a different room, which conflicted with his story Tuesday. Bumett said he did not know. Burnett’s other defense attorney. Steven Storrs, objected that he did not believe the previous hearing was admissible. NakfoorPratt said his previous testimony was admissi­ ble once Bumett took the stand in the trial. Judge Michael Schipper overruled Storrs objection. Nakfoor-Pratt asked how Bumett could have been acting jn self-defense, if he could have left the house, while Peake was stuck a room with no exit. Burnett said he was afraid Peake would load a uun and shoot him as he tried to run. Nakfoor-Pratt atso pointed out that a gun was not found near Peake. Instead, Peake s son-in-law found a pamphletwhen he c,caned up the pool of blood that had been under Peake’s body. The pamphlet, which was com­ pletely soaked in L contained infoirnalion on how to ope!, ,h' second safe, whtch turned out to contain Burnett’s AK--*7Bumett said he Peake’s’ home, and yelled out to hi, ™ house. telling Lynne Bumett lo call 911 ! Life had already left. While walking^ toadway. Bumett said he saw B^Good ,he r0!'dWDXXls'u^nS,|edwilhConsunters Energy, and w^Z"'” the l«’"cr lineS mark tree, that had" kl wn W° vlt”’e’ Bur"eU said he did not n^7 g Aod’s yellow safety vest and while ham^nd did "ol rcah/Ln'’C was walking cl,in|U>, Bumeu said wu, r oss "'e street and asked DeGood whlV^. L a''d whal ''.•"'’’j ^•‘’u'sa.dh^^^rwhat DeGood Bumett uses < iinpl£Ulb for cars, but only h ul'*hk'‘Hhei» al ,hC Though he l’f. 1 r what other peoP'e said, BuX'\V!h,ldId all he heard when DeGixxl (-.u'■'ll 11 ••!ioi>cSuddenly, " ‘1,, o"1 his "'""""i and started beaii?11*11'u it. B",flcU '^‘i. Bmneu him W'lh,^r>od»<>u d would never get up again. ‘My head is very sensitive," Bumctt said. He fell out of a tree decades earlier, and had a steel plate put in his head. With his left hand, Burnell grabbed at the hammer to stop DeGood from hitting him, and with his right hand pulled out the pink pistol and shot DeGood twice. “Boom, boom." Bumett said, as he described the scuffle Tuesday. Bumett said he had no memory of what happened immediately after shooting DeGood, except for two confrontations with passersby later on. Nakfoor-Pratt emphasized Burnett’s deci­ sion to walk across the street to talk to DeGood. “You had a choice," she said. “Many choices,” Bumctt replied. “Pardon?” “Many choices.” “You did that day, didn’t you?” “Yes.” Dr. Joyce DeYoung, who performed the autopsy on both victims^ testified last week that DeGood had been shot once in the back, and once in the back of the head. Nakfoor-Pratt asked Bumett how he could have shot DeGood in the back of the head when he said they were struggling face-toface. Bumett said he did not know. “How far were you when you shot him in the head?” Nakfoor-Pratt asked later in Burnett’s cross-examination. “Oh, point blank,” he answered. DeYoung’s autopsy also showed a large gash and circular bruise on DeGood’s head. DeGood’s DNA had also been found on the pink pistol. Both Burnett’s and DeGood’s DNA were on the handle of the hammer. Pratt asked Bumett if he struck DeGood on the head with the hammer, causing the circu­ lar wound, and struck him with the pistol, causing the gash. Bumett said he did not hit DeGood, and merely threw the hammer into the grass. Tracy Schisser, who drove through the area with her son that day. testified she saw Bumett standing directly behind DeGood. She said she heard two shots, and DeGood fell to the ground. She heard one more shot, and DeGood got back up, and put his hands up. Bumett then appeared to point a gun at Schisser and her son, and she drove away. Bumett said he then sat down on a rock by the road, and waited for the police. His memory of what happened before the police arrived is mostly blank, he said. He did not recall many of the numerous passing motorists who testified that he threatened them with the handgun when they stopped and tried to help DeGood after they saw his body near the road. He recalled shooting at a white van, but said he was not explicitly shooting that the driver. Bumctt faced an attempted murder charge for shooting at Joseph Powell, who was driving a while van. One of Powell’s tires was shot, and Powell believed another bullet ricocheted off the road and hit the undercar­ riage of his vehicle. “I thought he (the driver of the white van) was rubbernecking.” Bumett testified. -I was trying to protect the scene and the young man," he added, referring to DeGood’s txxly. "1 didn’t want gawkers.” Bumett said he also recalled four men in a white vehicle stopped, picked up DeGood’s body, carried it some distance, then dropped it when Bumett threatened them with the gun. Witnesses had testified seeing DeGood’s body in one of two locations. Michael Geist, who had driven through the area three times that day, said it moved between his second and third trips. No one testified during the trial that they had attempted to move the body. Bumett said he did not remember much about his arrest, but video and audio from Barry County Sheriff's Deputy Kevin Erb’s patrol vehicle camera and personal micro­ phone were played for the jury. Erb testified that when he arrived, he yelled to Burnell io drop the gun. Burnell threw it to the side, then laid down on the grass. Erb said. Burnett was handcuffed and taken o patrol vehicle, where he could be heard moan­ ing and crying. t . .„ “1 killed my friend, I killed my fnend. Burnett can be heard saying on the video. He cried out many different things to Erb, Detective Sgt. Janette Maki and to no one in particular as he was sitting in the patrol vehi­ cle. .. . “I was trying to kill a lot of people, he said. “Today 1 flipj>ed out.” “I shot everybody in the whole f—ing neighborhood.” After Maki arrived, she attempted to read Burnett his Miranda rights. He yelled over top of her voice and told her to go away. Maki said she was unable to finish reading the rights, and switched to asking questions to determine how many people were injured. “How many people did you shoot today?” Maki asked Bumctt. “I need to know.” Burnett told her about shooting Peake,while still crying out; asking Maki or other officers to shoot him in the head. “I shot two people,” Bumeu said. “Gary’s dead, I told you that a half hour ago.” “I shot him in the face.” “1 needed my AK.” Some of the audio was difficult to hear, especially since it was recorded from two separate microphones, one in the cruiser and the other on Erb’s uniform. During her testimony, Maki recalled what Burnell had told her about shooting Peake. “He said he went to open the safe, but he was dragging his feet, so he popped him," Maki said. “He said at one point that Mr. Peake wouldn’t give him his gun back." “He went for a gun, but it didn’t work, so I beat him down and I capped him,” Maki recalled Burnett saying. During her cross-examination, NakfoorPratt asked Bumctt about what he told Maki during his arrest. “Did you tell any of those people that Gary was going for a gun in that safe?” NakfoorPralt asked. “Objection. Detective Maki testified to that yesterday,” McNeill said. “Overruled,” Schipper said. “That’s her job. to cross-examine him. She has the right to ask him questions, regardless of whether they’ve been asked of other people or not." During one exchange between NakfoorPratt and Bumctt about his statements to Maki, McNeill stood up while the prosecutor was asking a question. “Your honor, is Ms. Pratt mocking Mr. Burnett’s hearing?” he asked. ’’No, I’m not." Nakfoor-Pratt said. Is there something you want to confront MnLW!'1h',aS.far “ ,he Previous hearing?” McNeill asked. “Where you say-" “Sit down,” Schipper cut him off. “Is there an objection there or not? NCLfCil1 Objcctcd 10 'he foundation of Nakfoor-IYatl’s question -Overruled," Schipper said. Coum7^Ur^"\arrcS‘ al ,he scene’ Barn lined thit^ l^:puly Brian Hansford les­ see if he w C °°^ Burne" O“' 'he cruiser to omr •';,n?'lnpanywc;lpons. meter?' f°Und “ Pile of Ssr[X^,,;£Vpis,olaad*" shotgun “alm* h? did not recal1 cafryin8 3 Rarasey’testifi h Pass,n8 motorist Keith shotormin.hf d|’!“ sttw Bumett holding a reeved Burnett’s device. Bun, ’ A,n^lnS H was a Bluetooth down in the cruis-1^1^0^^ dcaf* and >al get hint to stand up . “af S“‘d hC '"cd *° with his handcutTed CL UraC" mpport with Bumett ft* devcl,0Pe‘l ’ B>)od "ww, intervened, but Burned Continued next page �fTO'" P'eviOUs page ieH said. theshootinK-'1 ^ttid1* “jMitp j. . •■You’re n‘» ’ nSl,n W blow J“»y to accept that a-»' *J, fllOr-Pratt '"<> pcopic, arc y°u‘ ,1V ni)h , Urhett ;tn. •*Oh, abso’u,t j | could be a ls'vered. “I was just sayj^ »j fllC events why I can’t remember < nOt n defe ’can"You hnow ' jljn is not a - 'hough? Voluntary>cr.- Sel,ip**»«. ••He’s not » ' 'he lawyers Oll^. spoU' “P••He's not one 01 .. instruct th. .’"case. And neither of you**11 I will do klnR «-'splay c<l for tlw •'“ying “One L^iv*, l)urn‘" can be heard known him for an ' friend Gary. Eve “ieau ! . 'deputy ean be ,.h<’,.n'>'.‘rie,Hl " his drinkinp. • \- u,lr. as^ing BunicU about drink e\crj day »” U ^rink most days? You that.” r ilon^y- BunMt\ fn Dr. Druce Gul°L * ^mtlydoc­ tor, testified M°n Zjbien, BllrT1 In addition l®jjc3ljons I was pre­ scribed opioid n )°odone and "Yes,” Bunwtl '' hat s the lnn» • out drinking?” st t,n,c >ou vc f-< nc " hh“Never. nev™“id- "* n. p.n: Bumett testified tha at he could not remembeing tx>okvd at the jail. Nakfoor-Pratt cross-examined Bumctt “bout his memory lapses. ........... ’ ............ long history ’had ^d. He esti­ mated that Bum in his office around 200 ti,nC,S -jngs. Bu^nC,Udin8 lhe day before the shoo mg Hur^ haJ com­ plained of scvcrcr?^iky wnnUsca and was keeping when G^^^^ed ,nl0 ,hc want ^\llit.- ehc"U'i5Or Wl”,eVCT >0U g">S >VsnVC d!dn’‘va" » "Wacked " Nnl-fiwct.ui said. in -i|l t ^Ken Sa’d numerous. numerous times r ' 1 ^earinr-s.” Bumett said, “memory blacking out, um ...” 1 uanl 10 hike responsibility,” । akioor-Pratt said, finishing his sentence. m 'ZSy^^^T^ hospital­ Jon Burnett testifies how he shot Bryce DeGood with his right hand, while strug­ gling with DeGood’s hammer in his left izing Bumctt. but. Bumett became more showed nothing abn “I never thought h Galonsky said. “When $Urted talking, . II1S blood work • kirm anyone?’ und Oul wjlat GUILTY, continued from page 1 what he must have been thinking just before he died. That s how long Bryce DeGood had to think about his life, what’s going to happen,” Pratt said. “Mr. Burnett did not have to shoot him in that moment." 13, 2020 - - Pane 3 . .................. -U He kneed nie til l^|X>lK-eg.,V( | 'n a,<•„. ■ Erb said Bumett then led , " hls implant More he was lak ''>» Peake s body >'■« b the Barry Counu ?’ and cven- M ( The Hastings Banner — Tbu-zd.-.y, Burnett’s defense attorney, Shane McNeill, argued that Bumett believed that he was act­ ing in self-defense. In closing arguments, he said, even if the jury did not believe Burnett’s testimony, the most the evidence could show was third-de­ gree manslaughter; that his actions were not premeditated. “Jon shot Mr. Peake andIMr. did not murder them, McNeill Sentencing is scheduled for9ajn. Sept. 25. 37 positive COVID-19 cases linked to Hope Township camp Greg Chandler ees al the family-style camp or staff of the Staff Writer camp.” A total of 37 people who stayed at a Barry’ Health department staff has been working County camp have tested positive for the with camp management to notify people who COVID-19 vims, local health officials said. stayed at the camp of their exposure. Most of The Barry-Eaton District Health the individuals were from outside Barry Department reported Wednesday that 37 County. people, including 10 residents of Barry“If someone gets tested and has a positive County, who had stayed at Camp Michawana result, the health department is notified, in Hope Township, had tested positive for the about the same time as the individual,” Suma virus. Another eight popple are considered said in an interview Wednesday afternoon. “probable” casey based,on their exposure BEDHD staff recommended the affected history' and current symptoms, department individuals to self-quarantine at home for 14 spokeswoman Sarah Suma said. days past the last date of their stay al the The health department has been tracking camp. Individuals should monitor them­ cases of the virus since first reporting Friday. selves closely for symptoms of COVID-19, Aug. 7. that as many as 250 people who had she said, and seek testing immediately if stayed al the camp between July 24 and Aug. symptoms develop. 6 may have been exposed. The camp has In a post on the camp’s Facebook page last since been closed to visitors. Friday, executive director Terry' Wendt said “Approximately 180 campers were chil­ the camp is “cooperating fully” with the dren under 18 who attended the children’s health department and would remain closed overnight camp either last week or this to all visitors for two weeks. He said the week,’’ Suma said in the Aug. 7 news release. camp staff is “sorry” about the situation and “An additional 70 persons were either attend­ is praying for the health and safety of camp­ ers and their families. “We worked diligently to sanitize, disin­ fect and create distance as much as possible, and are deeply saddened at the outcome of positive test results at Camp Michawana,” Wendt wrote in the post. The Hastings Banner was unable to reach Wendt for further comment. Symptoms of CO VID-19 include fever, cough, fatigue, muscle aches, congestion, and loss of taste and Smell. Individuals expe­ riencing these symptoms should speak with a healthcare provider and seek testing for COVID-19. i “We're continuing to do our case investi­ gation and contact tracing (pf individuals who were exposed],’’ Suma said. On Thursday, health department officials reported 165 positive cases of COVID-19 in Barry County and another 27 probable cases. Sixteen cases are considered active and 147 people are listed as having recovered from the virus. To date, Barry County has had two deaths caused by COVID-19, according to the health department. Barry County District Court Judge Michael Schipper speaks to the jury Tuesday morning. pened. my initial thought was ‘Did I miss something?"’ Eventually. Galonsky said he came to the conclusion that he had not. During direct examination, McNeill asked Bumett if he was sorry’ about the shootings. “Very’ sorry." Bumctt said. “Do you understand why any of this hap pened?” McNeill asked. Bumctt replied. “Absolutely not." Clerk reports smooth primary election; 50 percent voted absentee Rebecca Pierce Editor Barry’ County had 16,093 voters cast ballots in the Aug. 4 primary election. Of those, 8,947 voted by absentee ballot, county Clerk Pam Palmer reported to the county board of commissioners Tuesday. Overall, a 33-pereent turnout is a slightly higher than average for an August primary’. Palmer said, but the story is the number of people voting by absentee ballot - or. more precisely, the absentee vole counting boards that tabulated all (hose ballots. "The AV counting boards were successful.” she said after the board meeting. “I hope to have a couple more going by November." Palmer said she will be meeting with township clerks next week and intends to find out if representatives from townships that don’t have counting boards would consider creating them. In the City of Hastings. 60 percent of the 1,616 voters who cast ballots in the primary, 977, did so via absentee ballot - either by mailing the ballot or delivering it by hand to the voting site. During the 2016 primary, the city clerk's office received fewer than 50 absentee ballot requests, she said. A three-member counting board spent nine hours, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., going through the absentee ballots and entering the information into a tabulator that had been provided to the city by the Barry County clerk’s office, city Clerk Jane Saurman said. Saurman said giving more voters the option to vole absentee and getting information out to the community on that availability turned out to be positive. “We cut our |in-pcr$on voting] numbers way down, due to our proactive information on getting everybody signed up for our AV ballots,” Saurman said. “They were really key.” Palmer agreed Tuesday. The absentee voter counting board is treated as a separate precinct, and a separate tabulator is programmed to count those ballots. Ideally, every township would have an AV counting board. Palmer said. But the smaller townships, like Maple Grove, may not be able to justify the purchase of another tabulator just to handle absentee ballots. A tabulator costs more (han $5.(XX). she no(ed. but the state has an incentive program now that will cover half the cost. So. ,if ,a township is inclined to create an /W counting board, now’s the time to do it. Palmer said. Ml 289-MM5M for Hastings Bannersds HOUSING, continued from page 1 road from the new development to the exist­ ing subdivision, a move they claim will increase traffic in their neighborhood and make it less safe for their families. At least seven people came to the township hall Monday night to speak at a scheduled public hearing on the Alexander Trails proj­ ect. planned for a 159-acre parcel just east of Breton Avenue between 68lfl and 76th streets. But. because of the executive order from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer limiting how many people can artend an indoor gathering, the township board met via Zoom and residents were not allowed to enter the (ownship hall. 1'he residents said they are opposed to a proposal to build a road in Alexander TYails to connect with Terra Cotta Drive in the adjoin­ ing Sienna Pointe subdivision to the north. Township Trustee Dan Fryling look the names of the residents and offered them the opportunity to join the meeting via Zoom, but some <aid they either didn’t have a cell phone or a computet available to join the meeting V’”Tfiey requested it be tabled.” Fryling said. Kim Triplett, executive secretary for the tnunshiP said that the agenda posted on the wnship's website late last week stated that ; would be held via Zoom. The meeting agenda provided both the meeting ID ,h.-r and password, written in red. "“"be board agreed to table the request to .he omperty as a planned unit develop“Z 'l' S>d is expected to ,ake the proJX" i back up 31 i,’> "exI ,ncel "8 <>n Monday’ Se|’.1' I4' nf that meeting will go out to the S’X’ tesidui^ 10 MOn<Uy’5 ^.d meeting. I bas ieuejvcd several letters Thc tout 1^^.^ thcjr opposJ(lon lo the from rest ci > • .ttprjinarily-becauseof Alexander J- J sicnn(| PoijUe (jirough lhepl.<n ,Of"fnr^aama Drise. the extenMO! on CryMaJ Meadows 1 7 . expects another I.(XX) to 3JXX) prise. (o come through Sienna additional vc .. {|Je project because it Jias Poinr 35 nutlet onto 76’" Street. only ‘>»e nut Pratt called for the township to require at least two outlets onto 76l,k "Our streets are often partially blocked daily by service vehicles, delivery trucks, parked vehicles, trailers, school buses and trash and recycle trucks,” Pratt wrote in his letter. “This leaves room for one vehicle to pass. We are used to it and it works because of our low-trafiic volume. “That development will likely build friction within our community.” Kirk and Amy Starnes, who moved into their house on Terra Cotta Drive last December, voiced similar safety concerns. “We are regularly outside and have enjoyed the safe atmosphere for the kids and families that live here.” the Starnes W’rote in their letter to the township board. “If this rezoning hap­ pens and the land is developed, we have con­ cern (hat the traffic would increase drastically through our neighborhood and the streets surrounding, creating an unsafe place for our kids and families.” Tlie land is currently zoned for single-fam­ ily residential use, but the Alexander Trails proposal calls tor smaller lot sizes than under the current zoning. ’Hie plan calls for the single-family homes to have a minimum lot width of 65 feel and a minimum total footprint of 8,500 square feet, compared to the requirement of a minimum lol width of 80 feet and a lot size of 14.000 square feet under the traditional single-family zoning, according to a memo from Dan Wells, the township’s community development director, and David Jirousek, a planning con­ sultant to the township. The township’s master plan designates the site as low-density residential, defined al between one and four units jier acre. The Alexander Trails project would have a density of 2.54 units per acre, according to the memo from Wells and Jirousek. “It is concluded that that housing style and density is generally consistent with the town­ ship master plan and zoning ordinance as well as with other examples of development that is occurring in the area, the rezoning resolution stales. The Alexander frails proposal comes as several communities in Barry County seek to address housing issues in the wake of growth, particularly on the west side of the county. In Hastings, the city council in September 2019 approved redeveloping the former Royal Coach property on the Thornapp|e River into 73 townhouse units. A month earlier, the council approved a $6.1 million proposal from Grand Rapids-based A J. Veneklasen for a 30-unit, four-story structure that also includes retail space on thc former Moose Lodge property on Michigan Avenue. Another housing development could be in the works on vacant city-owned property w South Park. West Court and West Stale Strects. devc|. oper Kendall Place Limned has proposed a 41-unit project for that site. 1 * In Mtddlevt le.AJ. Venekla.scn is planning another mtxed-use devdoPracnt jusf e;lst of he viUage hall, wnh 11 apa^, units in a three-floor structure thu alu, includl.s re,ail on the mam floor Ehe vdlage co^ ^tjy approved the final plats for the final phases of the Rolling Oaks and Misty Ridgc\ubdivi. sions. rhe Rolling Oaks pmj^, 4, new homes planned while Misty Rid ... . 23 more homes added in its nnai p|lase Last year, Middleville saw jts L .car in at least 15 years, tn terms of housi slarts. with construction pennits taken out on 47 single-family homes, according to village documents. The condonnmum for lhc Alcxandcr Iratls project would be annng^ jn ,wo_ buildings with 4 to 6 umts ,n each bui|(Jj and single-story ranch-style bui|di with 2 to 4 units in each. Abou> 30 p^^ ()f (he siw would be preserved aS open mosl|y surrounding Plaster Creek and associated wet­ lands at the center of the snc Eastbrook Homes has indicated (hc possi­ bility that the open sp**- could have a trail network that is inU) the |own ship’s non-motonzed ',sP«rtaiion system, according to the nw trom \yc||s anj Jirousek. COVID-19 TIME If TO GET TESTED A CHAMBER OF COMMERCE �Page 4 — Thursday. August 13. 2020 — The Hastings Paa___ Did you SCO • One virus is making another one wors A teachable moment With students preparing to go back to school, the tractor parked outside the John Deere dealership in Hastings seemed like a parent next to its child (which just so hap­ pens to be a lawn mower). Time to learn how to handle farm fields so you can grow up and do some useful work, that big parent seems to be saying. Sadly, the lawn mower sat there in silence because it was, in fact, just a lawn mower. We can let it in on a little (no pun intended) secret: Mowing lawns is useful work, too. To check out the equip­ ment, cruise by the Greenmark John Deere Dealership. 2900 N. M-43 Highway. do you remember? University Werner form club Have you Banner September 1975 University Women officers The newly formed branch of the American Association of University Women met at the Episcopal Parish House Tuesday. Sept. 9, and made plans for the Tuesday, Oct. 14. meeting Interested women who hold bac­ calaureate degrees from accred­ ited colleges or universities are invited to join the group. Officers are (from left) Mrs. Alice Jones, treasurer; Mrs. Barbara Furrow, president; Mrs. Sandi Pattok, vice president of programs; and Mrs. Agnes McPharlin, vice pres­ ident of membership. Other char­ ter memteTs Included secretary Mrs. Carolyn Fitzpatrick, Mary Ann Kaimes, Mrs. Janice Ahalt, Mrs. Grace Watson, Eileen Oehler, Mrs. Irene Babcock, Mrs. Marilyn Scheck, Mrs. Marguerite Stauffer and Mrs. Dorothy Van Oort. met? Michael Stifler’s life has been full of environmcntal protection and gardening efforts. “The first Earth Day in 1970 gave me the incentive to work in environmental protec­ tion. which I did from 1973 until 2016” he said. After graduating from Dearborn High School in 1967, Stifler moved onto the University of Michigan to pursue his bache­ lor’s degree followed by his master’s degree in civil and environmental engineering. After receiving his degrees, he began a 35-year career with Michigan’s Department of Environmental Quality. He was in charge of the waler quality programs in the Cadillac District office from 1984 to 2010. when he retired from the DEQ. “We focused on watershed protection, compliance and enforcement of state and federal regulations, and oil and chemical spill response,” said Stiller, now 71. He also had a 12-year carver as an envi­ Michael Stifler ronmental science teacher at Baker College of Cadillac, from which he retired in 2016. He and his w ife, the Rev. Linnea Stifler.of own home and community in Hastings. “My gardening has evolved over time.” he Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Hastings, have now lived in Hastings for more than said. "1 started with vegetable plots and raised beds. They were the be 4 way to grow three years. When Linnea began seminary, she gifted lots of vegetables in a small yard. As the Michael a class in the Michigan State trees grew in our neighborhood, we lost sun­ University Extension Master Gardening shine. so 1 changed over to shade perennial Program, horticultural education and volun­ gardens. My goal was to replace as much teer leader training for adults. The program is grass as possible.” “Now. in Hastings, we have improved the meant to spread information regarding sci­ ence-based horticultural methods to commu­ memorial garden, increased the pollinator nities throughout Michigan. With the knowl­ garden, added a vegetable plot and planted edge gamed from this class and as a volun­ several annual flower containers on an old teer in the program. Stiller was able to concrete slab.' he said," This is a gre.it grow expand his methods and get involved in ing area.” The gardening doesn’t stop with Stifler. community projects, including being part of the design and start-up of the Cadillac Each of his children, who live in Louisville. Ky., Seattle, and Isukulxt, Japan, also gar­ YMCA’s community garden. As a retiree. Stiller still spends much of den. “What do 1 like best? he asked. “I he his lime working with the environment in challenge each year to see planning, prepara some way He also is on the board of direc­ tors for the Barry Conservation District, and non and tending result in a beautiful space.” For taking his education in environmental on the Creation Care Advisory Panel for the Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan. protection and gardenm*; and sharing it with Stifler continues his gardening efforts at his various communities in Michigan, Stiller is this week's Banner Bright Light. Best thing about summertime: The gar­ dens and the birds. Favorite vacation destination: Sleeping Bear Dunes, or any city where our children live. Greatest song ever written: Bach’s “Cello Suite No. 1 “ When I grow up, I want to be: On staff at the Chicago Botanic Garden. Best gift ever received: When 1 turned 50. I did not want a party. My wife gave me a box filled with notes and memories from many friends and family members, instead. First job: As a child, a Detroit News paper route. As a college graduate. EPA wastewater research project. Favorite TV program: "MASH ” I erson I most admire: Howard fhurman. Favorite teacher- Dr Ben Wylie from my junior year at Unixekity of MichiganIf I were president- 1 would mist science and work to stem climate change and the pandemic. Favorite movie. “Bull Durham.” ’ avorite thing abmltnl) Job: As amtirI have no regular schedule. l asorilechiku, (1 memory: Dmnerdiscusstons with mv r ■ (ireatest thing Harry County: The water resource a,|(|''‘ and biking mills. If only I couhj. inonr to stop climate ~ 'he W ‘ha"enSC W <>Ur SSJSHrxSlS-. . pay <df our child^ ;uH L loans and their mortgages. The, i'-j “git of .lhc srd",oh^^inporE 'I'M invt.nli r pumps. "ho nuike, a,. ‘ Mie- D" wine,,, ' be feu'wed oj wi,,^ duality, /;», ffhi n*<" Jw fa ,e 1 or any (,tller * St,,fies " -..formation to blcwsninm, ^,,^8: or em,,il ml. As our communities continue to struggle nationwide with the vicious COVID-19 pandemic, we’re also being affected by another invisible enemy that has been threatening America formorc than 15 years. I hat plague is becoming more visible — and insidious - with every closed door meeting that takes place in our communi­ ties. Although it's understandable, given the coronavirus' danger, it’s also stunning to see how quickly some government officials muffled the public voice by restricting in-person and even virtual attendance at their official meetings. Since March. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer allowed public bodies, departments and agencies to shift from in-person meetings to using technology for the media and the gen­ eral public to view their proceedings. Now, many governors, lawmakers, mayors and county officials are making similar deci­ sions to avoid in-person meetings - all in the name of safety. Keeping the community safe while carry ­ ing out vital business is commendable, but it’s a fine line we all arc walking. “Public participation in our democracy is really fundamental to the health of our democracy.” said David Snyder, executive director of the First Amendment Coalition. “I think government agencies need to be very careful not to unduly restrict the pub­ lic’s ability to see what government is doing and, maybe more importantly, to participate in what the government is doing.” According to a recent Pew Report, more than 2.100 newspapers have closed in the United States since 2004. adding to the list of “news deserts” across the country. The report indicates that, between 2004 and 2018. newspaper newsroom employment dropped by nearly half - 47 percent. And the coronavirus has exacerbated those con cents, as more newspapers continue to lay off staff and reduce print editions due to loss of advertising as businesses close or reduce hours during the pandemic. Across the country, open-government advocates worry that it’s becoming harder for the remote-viewing public to interact w ith elected officials or to fully understand what’s going on. They’re urging officials at all levels of government to “not-retrench' from their duties for public involvement because of the threat of the coronavirus. They’re concerned governmental bodies will take advantage of the public's inability to attend meetings where they’re making decisions that affect the larger community. Even though these meetings are available through an online provider, communication experts suggest that only 15 percent of our communication is done verbally and the other 85 percent of our messaging is sent through body language. Meetings online can never replace the importance of in-per­ son meetings. Recently, our own county board pul off the county sheriff’s special pay request for essential workers until it could meet in per­ son. Because of all the technical problems commissioners were having with their online meetings, they wanted to meet in person to discuss the issues before voting on the request. If the in-person exchange was so import­ ant to them, imagine how vital it is for the community to hear those discussions and evaluate how commissioners vote. Following coronavirus safety protocol, with its limit on the number of citizens w ho may attend an indoor meeting, public access is restricted. That's just another reminder of the vital importance of local news coverage. When in-person meetings are conducted, the news media must be in attendance. Unfortunately, reporters, too, are under attack. Last week, Gov. Whitmer held a press conference on COVID-19. keeping mem­ bers of the press from attending in person in the name of safely. Instead, she asked reporters to attend virtually and post their questions on the video feed where she got to choose which questions to answer. Io some, a Zoom meeting may appear to be acceptable, but to most members of the press, w ho ate there to represent the public, the situation is alarming - especially with the decline of traditional news organiza­ tions and the growth of social media, blogs and other online sources that make it more difficult to determine what’s fact and w hat’s fake. For us in the newspaper industry, we fol­ low the traditional “Five ‘W’s. and one 11“ giving our readers the “who. what, when where, why and how” of the story. \ye also must be watchful nt the “I-’’ - what is fad or fiction. With more meetings and press confer­ ences moving online. nA harder to get the information we need to keep our readers informed. And, w ith more newspapers dos­ ing oi cutting back on local coverage, ir puts our democracy in jeopardy. Social media and the rise of citizen jour­ nalists just exacerbate the problem because untrained agenda to top , of fairness and objeedon’t connni>-<> haVC to foilow fivity that trained rvp hc SoCiety of Part o' Sis states: "Public Professional Jo forerunner of Jus!‘cc enlightenment is democracy.” Hiat and the fo^at on o code lists four pnne P‘ U; ^•; ScCk '“'Tnde^y and be tnize harm, ■ , nsDarent.” To accom ba|anced accountable and ra P plish these goals, we m ^uve, and accurate, pro c dedicated to Illorough anti pc^'^ readers. our communities and ^istoricai|y been the ■ lhc "^^fcnnation on everything prime source c I . ( town coun­ I from What’s happen ng at tn (<j cil meetings to who s r F how t0 something as mundane a. you see an spend your money wtse jwhen y aUras:deatthe oc 1^. s^ Abernathy, of the r i( of North J?1*’’ nn^Ne’wspape^ have prided most government meeting P(hreal (o ences tn person t. public because it industry, but to the gene .1 means less tnformau that alone inefficiencies increase ^thZtu'Xof^v^ a news^dXe''"X participation in ikal elecdons is affected with fewer con­ tested races and fewer people show.ng; up at the polls. In Barry County, by contrast. 16 093 primary election voters showedI up at ihe polls last week - up from 12.424 four years ago. . . . _ . That higher voter participation can be interpreted as proof that people still want a voice in local government. Our news staff spends many extra hours before each elec­ tion collecting information to share with readers before voters head to the polls. Our readers have come to expect such informa­ tion. . Even local clubs and organizations are feeling the loss of active membership due to the virus and the use of technology to replace in-person meetings. It may look to be safer, but it’s hurting participation that could impact membership - and the com­ munities that benetit from their civic contri­ butions - for years. And college students who embrace tech­ nology are asking: What are classes going to look like in the fall? Will classes be in person or online? Some families are talking about having their kids skip a year rather than pay the high cost of a college educa­ tion without the benefit of in-person teach­ ing. K-12 educators are debating whether students can return to school or w ill districts try to educate students from a computer. .Across the nation, journalists arc being barred from attending meetings and deprived of the ability to obtain important information. Research has shown that access to government information is actual­ ly essential for our health and well-being, (hose studies confirm that educating the general public leads to cleaner drinking water, safer foods, less corruption and more confidence in government. As more newspapers across the country give up on city, county, township and school Ixxird coverage, how will residents keep up on what’s going on in their commu­ nity? When citizens sec this continual and increasing shift from in-person to on-line meetings, they should be concerned. Frankly, it’s easier to lead a group of people w hen they have no idea what’s going on or where they're headed. As print revenue continues to decline and newspaper presses go silent, the lack of local coverage will have serious consequences on communities, local governments and voter participation. “Even though we never like it, and even though we wish they didn't write it, and even though we disapprove, there isn’t any doubt that we could not do the job at all in a tree society without a very, very active press.” said President John F. Kennedy. Keeping citizens informed and observing the political process as a watchdog is a |xw\er enshrined in the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, and the adoption of coronavirus safety precautions has the abil­ ity to jeopardize that freedom. Our concern should be that these health protection mea­ sures. needed for the short term, don’t become a more permanent government power used to suppress or control the vital stream oi information. Let’s cure both viruses. Fred Jacobs. CEO, J-Ad Graphics Inc. �State Street shopping cehter rehab moves ahead The H,ratings Bannar — Thursday. August 13. 2020 — Page 5 Rvhpvi'a Aibccca di Pietx-e A final step in fomw Kmart cP'an for unanimously appm?, Y*'«««St.was Council during its virtuni “ ^asl»ngs City The council OK’d .1 Monday, commercial rehabilitation ’xpp,ica.lion for « cate. Now the apnlic w;.?« \*«n>ption certifiTax. ComndssionPfor*itK ”?•’ g° to lhe S,atc “What I’m personally excited about is, even with the pandemic, there are a lot of positive things the council has been able to accomplish, moving ahead despite not being able to meet in person." and aPProva,‘ City Manager Jerry nroh1' ' . nriX\„. , . li,pencil IPJ jetivitj. '"'"Mudc increas­ ing contd’^iJiziii? 'he wh'1"'""' employ­ men! :<nd r o i-sicrc parv.f | ■ :‘rea. Taxable value for,lu' " • loot hU|| ? S4O2.H5 and the A-^'orli " “ ^"■'*4, according j, |ltni-e<| a J ra Kashid.The building' " 0. i„ iidjacem.""J 'tore until the fallof - . s and is “'’her commer­ cial l,r,’l’‘;r „.t.ratX<)l\V. s, , Hastings Shopping < <• ' w:1s origi,l0| '"c Sl “The I’1" ."'’.j ;,s part „t ■ u’nstructcd in 1990 and «’r’ lcd community,'' 'he appli""*;" ptpany be.. . the Kmart l“^fIi.lionwid^“^n^le and close loca'ii n fl|| <f ^ location was SSarW* Jerry Czarnecki, Hastings City Manager district at a July 13 virtu I ” ° .csla*>'*sl’ ,he by the Barry County Bo" f°"°Wed Public Ac^loOtn^ui^ibhinnAct tax abatement bc»-u had two national retailre^dv m^pvlhe eas and west ends of the building A eonHdentiahty clause prohibited mleasj of names until contracts are finalized. oJr ^USk.cE‘'n-based family owned and operated Fanuly Farm & Home announced its S m-S ~t2 1° OP?n i,S 65th slore al the Wcs‘ State Street location. A second retailer is expected to be announced soon, Czarnecki confirmed. “What I'm personally excited about,” he said Tuesday, “is. even with the pandemic, there are a lot of positive things the council has been able to accomplish, moving ahead despite not being able to meet in person.” All told, “the redevelopment will rehab over 90.000 square feet of commercial space in Barry' County and is expected to create jobs, first, in the rehabilitation project and. upon completion, for retail workers who will occupy the space,” the city’s application states. “Economic advantages are significant and will revitalize the entire area, providing long-term benefits, generating revenue for surrounding businesses, increasing real estate values and providing additional property tax revenue to the township.” The city established the commercial reha­ bilitation district that allows the building, under the Commercial Rehabilitation Act. to receive a reduction in property taxes. The action will freeze the taxable value of the property for 10 years, which provides an incentive for developers. Czarnecki advised council members in a Aug. 8 memo. After the 10 years are up. the value of the property will be reassessed and brought to its current value, he said. (Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer's name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor's discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks" will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire" letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. ^ant commercial P”-Thefacility 'v jl*l-l7h?° a comPlele redevdoptnent.-h^^ long-lasting mtd impactful bend application 5,J ' |elc community.” the h'" rehabilitation started with a with site inipi”'d ' • Mi as surface pav• 1 . n trU'-f' tl1The'estimated S3 million in i;u-ithy ,lnd sik, renovations bteab * '"n as f„||(,ws: Tenant build-outs. SI h " bon. parking lot. $100,000; truck . ’ .^0,000; facade, SI50 000: ph,n^’in'‘ ^-0.000: roofing, $200,000: fin: supp’^ssion. $50,000, HVAC, $375,000. electrical- $.■» 5Wo. “The existing:bmhhng is functionally obso­ lete and received no major improvements over the past (fecade, the yilj’s application noted, staling that <he mtemion is to “redevel­ op the building »»10 three to six multiple tenant spaces front the current single tenant layout.” The project, which began this summer and w ill conclude in December 2022. w ill develop in phases as new tenants are identified. In other budn&> the council: • Approved thenapresi from Brent Walk of Fun Promotions for a 6-hour team relay mountain bike event on the Hammond Hill Trails from 10 aJW;,o ** P ’11- Saturday. Aug. 22. This is the third annual event, which offers categories for solo two and torn-person teams to participate. Awards will go to the (op three riders in all classes. No alcohol will be served; no food, uith the exception of snacks, will be allowed The event is not a spectator attrac­ tion and fewer than 100 people will be involved in the outdoor activity. Event orga­ nizers said the race will be limited to 90 rid­ ers. and participarts are asked to practice social distancing iilheir pit areas during the event. Riders will ttyrclay at their respective pits to help ;^vpid LW-rimjs in the common area. Space at H.niwwi Hill will ensure social distancing to find t team or pit place. .Awards and prizes will be sell-awarded after the race. Pirc registration b encouraged, and participants must wear a tnask to check in. Masks will be supplied, if Reeded. • Approved a request from the Downtown Business Team to host the Fall Girls Night Out from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday. Oct. 1. l he This week, Hastings motorists may notice a lane closure on West Apple Street near the city s wastewater treatment plant, while a work crew installs a 30-inch pipe. Also, o the east of the plant, a trailer is housing an ultraviolet unit, which went live this week, to supplement an ultraviolet unit already in use by the city. (Photo by Scott Harmsen) event will feature music and sales on the side­ walk, along with the annual scarecrow con­ test. Scarecrows will be attached to the light poles Oct. 1-31. No streets will be closed, and .storeowners will clean up alter the event. • Appointed Mayor Dave Tossava as the city’s official representative .and John Rcsseguie as its alternate for the Michigan Municipal League Virtual Convention Sept. 29-Oct. 2. • Excused the absence of council member Therese Maupin-Moore. Unbaffled thinking about good things and Trump To the editor: In the Aug. 6 Hastings Banner, Christina Bush asked, “What is it that would cause someone not to vote for Mr. Trump?” She said she was baffled by this. Let me help unbaffle that thinking: President Trump (who is your president, too) would lose my vote if he: fell lhe killing of 60 million of the most innocent and defenseless human beings for convenience sake was a !»<x>d thins: that burnin”. lootins. rioting, tearing down any and all history- was a good thing; that seeking to turn America’s sovereignty over to the United Nations or some other global entity, and embracing a socialistic “Big Daddy. Cradle to the Grave” mindset was a good thing; adopting an open-border mindset, embracing the unskilled illegal alien over American citizens was a good thing; allowing racial propagandists to Know Your Legislators: l A ■ -■■■’.r. spread lies and divide this nation, totally sid­ ing with the extremely radical entertainment industry’ in pushing 24/7 365-day rebellion, immorality, perversion, drug use. hatred of our Judeo-Christian foundation and history of America, especially onto the impressionable minds of youth and children, encouraging drug use, rewarding irresponsible behaviors and choices was a good thing. If your president. President Trump, adopted all these things and more as good things, then he would lose my vote (along with the votes of many others). And we would understand that your presi­ dent had become a morally and spiritually bankrupt DenuKT.it who hated the great nation of America. Joe Perotta, Nashville ........ 1........ 111 ill IM County of Barry Carpet Replacement Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Galley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing. Ml’ The County of Barry is accepting sealed bids for Carpet Replacement at the Historic Barry County Courthouse. The closing dale for the bid is September, 25, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. Bids shall be submitted to Barry County Buildings and I pof piUQ^ UCC11 - UiJcr c/ Wotictx3J( 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; US mail- Sen Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Mt 48909. NO MORE GUTTER CLEANING, OR YOUR MONEY back GUARANTEED! I Grounds, 220 W. State Street. Hastings, Ml 49058. To ob­ tain a copy of the invitation to bid, please visit our website at banyCQuntv_.org or call (269) 945-1293. Specific ques­ tions regarding the Invitation to Bid may be directed to Tim Neeb, Building and Grounds Supervisor at (269) 838-7084. U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, PubSic Land Auction The following County Treasurers will be offering tax-reverted rca! estate at public Auction on September 22nd. 2020: Carry phone (616) 451-8383. 6 Kalamazoo U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building. Washington. D.C. Due to restrictions surrounding COVID-19, the auction will be he’d ONLINE ONLY at wwwinfQ_from lOOOarn to 7 00pm EST. Bids can be placed up to 30 days in advance and assistance is available for those without computer or Internet 2°carv Peters democrat. 2 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510Cfno r?4A) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building Room 72O2'vO Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 233- access. 91p5° sidenfs comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress andfhe Senate: 1-202-224-3121. For more information and a list cf lhe proper! es being sold, vistt yAywlTx.^' -.m'o or call 1-500-259-7470 Sate listings may also bo available at your local County Treasurer s Office licensed Master Plumber Licensed Jnurilcvm.in plumber remodel, repair, drain cleaning. A,)FORd \\mu; WATER HEATERS____ i)u^. y;n(<,//urt»i The Hastings Boonejr * B Devoted to the 7. nf Barry County since 1856 l->«c g |nc of J-Ad Graphics Inc . /LuTphona: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 1351 N. M-43 Hign ' X „. 3dgraphics.com ■ Advertising: Mts^l-adgutphics com NewS ttndpress reuses: ----------------------------- ------- _ Frederic Jacobs Publisher & ClO Hank Schuuring CFO <= Taylor Owens Greg Chand*' lll^t Cleaners Station cr,.r^„... Hast rxn. Ml OlftB Sboond Class Pod*;)# p(1Kj at H.v»! njx Ml 4'>3S6 Tor Cur One Nation Wcr God 'T y k’- $55 per year elsewhere r.U Bu* IgfJ Brett Bremer (Si>o^ J backing Jennie Yonkar roSW*STO>. < selection ofprint cottons and < Ty Green),sW Coltecn EqUton Subscription Rates: $-15 peryear ln Bn . $50 per yea. in aqjoininq counit .NEWSROOM• to start holiday gift* • advertising DEPARTMENT. ScottOmmen Miko Gilmore (269) 948-2248 DIESEL MECHANIC License #8110376 & I inured ~ 045-9673 ___ —vc Tkrk. Clconors Pick-Up Statl?a_ The Barry County Road Commission has an opening tor a full time mechanic position. A high school diploma or general education degree (GEO) with 5+ years of mechanic experience is required. 0p jUility to obtain one. Applications can be nicked UP at ttic Barry County Road Commission othce (Phone 269-945-3449) at 1725 W M-43 Hwy. Hasunos. Ml between 6:00 AM & 4:00 PM. or webs'te www.barrycrc.org. A complete job description will be provided at the time of application. Startino hourly wage will be S20.41 with advancement after one year of probation to 322.41. Tools and benefits including 40IK provided, ntoie information available upon request Trie Bn"}' County Road Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer. �Pago 6 — Thursday. AuguM 13. 2030 — The Hastings Banner _________ SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Applying for Medicare online Vonda Van Til Public Affairs Specialist Individuals may apply lor Medicare online even if they are not ready io start retirement benefits. Applying online can take less than 10 minutes. There are no forms to sign, and we usually require no documentation. We’ll process your application and contact you it we need more information. Visit ssa.gov benefits medicate to apply for Medicare and find other important informa­ tion. If you’re eligible for Medicare at age 65, your initial enrollment period begins three months before your 65th birthday and ends three months after that birthday. Some Medicare beneficiaries may qualify for Extra Help with their Medicare prescrip­ tion drug plan costs. To qualify for Extra Help, a person must be receiving Medicare, have limited resources and income, and reside in one of the 50 slates or the District of Columbia. Read ssa.gov'pubs EN-05-10508. pdf for more information on Extra Help. Medicare also offers many online services where y ou can find out: • What Medicare covers: medicare.gov/ what - medicare -covers • Where to find forms for filing a Medicare appeal: medicare.gov/claims-appeals'how- do-Lfile-an-appeai • How io let someone speak with Medicare on your behalf: medicarc.gov/claims-appeals/ file-an-appealcan-someone-file-an-appealfor-ine. • What Medicare health and prescription drug plans in your area cost, and what ser­ vices do they offer: medicarc.gov/plan-com- pare . • Which doctors, health care providers, and suppliers participate in Medicare: medicare, gov/forms-help-rcsources/find-comparc-doctors-hospitals-other-providcrs • Where to learn more about a Medicare prescription drug plan (Part D) and enroll: medicare.gov/drug-coverage-part-d/how-togct-prescription-drug-coverage • Where to find a Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policy in your area: medicare.gov/medigap-supplemental-insur- ance-plans Share these helpful resources with some­ one y ou care about today. Vorala Van Til is the public affairs special­ istfor West Michigan. You may write her do Social Security Administration, 31)45 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda.VanTilfissa.gov. Jlake, Qd&iia Elaine Garlock Central United Methodist Church in Lake Odessa is planning, weather permitting, to have its Sunday morning service outdoors on die west side of the building which will be shaded at the 9:30 worship lime. Communion will be celebrated. In case of inclement w eath­ er, a five-streamed service will be available on the church’s Facebook page. Services last week were expected to be held outdoors, but the weather forecast didn’t look promising early in the week, so it was five-streamed. Delton Kellogg releases return-to-learn plan 1 ,hkc Frond**14 Helion released their back-h>.Stj;^ ... facebook |x>st on Thursday. Ahg 'J The district is . M1)dcntS two learnmg options; In |K.1X, '"e We appreciateor llwt |ulc been Shown by «eryo,)tt . „„nUnlly as we look forward 1() 1<cIlool year." Superintendent Ky|.. corled «,id a Facebook post. - w. optimistic about the school jear.rvgami "s of theeiremnstances. and remain colnn,iItcd to helping our stu­ dents be successful ’* When the retunHo.|carning I’Jan was released, 30 perlx.„t f. i)ics had already opted for onhue^i^ I wo Oittereni Onhn^ |earning programs will be utilized for t>ellon students, and paper packets will not be distributed to online learn­ ing students. Kindergarten thrvunh fifth-grade students will be taught via pa* ... . . . . ‘•ugenuity. Students in sixth-]2lh „nlde> w ill be taught via Edmentum. *" c Those participating in online learning will have access to either *m iPad (kindergarten through second grade) or a Chromebook for students in the third pradc and up. Delton Kellogg teachers will regularly check in with vutuaj learning students to ensure they are on track. Teachers will track attendance, answer questions, give feedback, create schedules and monitor student prog­ ress, district officials said. Virtual learning students also will have access lo weekly meal disbursements and may participate in sports or extracurricular activi­ ties. District officials recommend that students enrolled in virtual learning have a parent at home during regular schcxd hours, especially those in kindergarten through fifth grade. The district is currently in Phase 4 of reopening, but if it wcrc forced to move back to Phase I through 3. all students would move to virtual learning. Students who opt for in-person learning will be placed in small pods of two or three students to help limit exposure to others. Among the gardens worth seeing around town are those of the Lake Odessa Area Historical Society (the depot) on Emerson Street. Carrie Johnson’s sunflowers on north Fourth Avenue, and the Rider gardens on Johnson Lane. The garden in front of the depot is maintained by lhe Lake Odessa Garden Club. A new playground at the pickleball courts is coining along nicely. Il’s become quite a complex. "We remain optimistic about the school year, regardless of the circumstances, and remain committed to helping our students be successful." j Kyle Corlett, Delton Kellogg I Superintendent f ~-------- T-—.------------------------------------------- - Should a person test positive for COVID-19, the pods also would simplify contact tracing. Corlett said. “1 thank you for your patience and under­ standing as we plan to provide the best possi­ ble experience tor your children as we keep the health and safety of everyone involved in mind.” he said. Panther paw decals will be placed on the elementary school floor hallways to provide direction and show students the correct social distancing. Hallway transitions will be limited for all students in each building. Elementary students will be spaced three to six teet apart in classrooms. They also may be sealed next to a learning partner. All teachers are required to wear masks throughout the school day, other than when they are eating. Kindergarten through fifth-grade students will not be required to wear masks in lhe classroom. Students in grades sixth through 12 will be required lo wear masks at all limes. The district will provide each student w ith two cloth masks, but they are encouraged to bring personalized masks. Students who refuse to wear masks will face disciplinary action. Clear face shields cannot be used in place of masks or other accepted face covering unless a doctor’s note is provided. However, the face shield can be used in combination w ith disposable or homemade reusable masks. All students are required to wear a mask and use hand sanitizer while riding the school buses. Students also will be assigned seals on the buses. Bus dismissal will be staggered to elimi­ nate student crowding when entering and exiting buildings. Elementary students will eat breakfast and lunch in their classrooms with adult supervi­ sion. Middle school students will eat breakfast and lunch in socially distanced pods in the cafeteria. One grade level al a time will be allowed to eat lunch. But, depending on class sizes, a grade may have to be split into two lunch periods. The high school added a lunch period to allow students to spread out. Students also will receive weekly emotion­ al health checks. Elementary students nre not required to wear masks while outdoors on recess, but they are not allowed to mingle with members of other classes. Students are required to wash hands before and after recess. No adult, other than school staff, will be permitted to enter school buildings during sc hex >1 hours. Parents who want to speak with teachers or a principal must make an appointment or schedule a Zoom meeting. Classrooms’ will be cleaned by staff throughout the day. Students cannot share water bottles or Chromebooks and are expect­ ed to wash their hands regularly. Elementary and middle sclux)! students will have art and music. The science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, les­ sons will take place in classrooms for elemen­ tary students. Physical education will be out­ doors. weather permitting. In case of inclem­ ent weather, students will be socially dis­ tanced in the gy mnasium. Any student exhibiting symptoms of C0V1D-19 at school will be quarantined until a parent or guardian picks them up. If a student tests positive for CO VID-19, district officials will work with the health department to begin contact tracing. Work will be provided lo students by their teachers. Homebound instruction may be available if a student misses an extended amount of class time. Donald J. Moonev Charles Raymond Wait Donald J. Mooney, age 88. passed on August 9, 2020. Burial service will be at Ionia Balcom Cemetery on August 15. 2020 al noon. Donald was born in Ionia. He married Janet Crosby in 1959. T hey resided and raised their daughter Jean in Ionia. Donald enjoyed, gardening, western movies, apple pie and eating at Phil’s in Hastings. Donald was independent and befriended lhe Transit drivers he met. Donald loved his cats and enjoyed having lunch with his great grandchildren. Charles Raymond Wail oi Hastings died on August 7.2020 in Hastings. He was born on February 29. 1928 in Hastings. He graduated from Hustings High School. He honorably served his country in the U.S. Army during lhe Korean War. He married Jane Vandlen on July 21. 1953. He worked at Charlton Park. Metaldyne Corporation, and Simpson Industry. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, bowling, crochet, cutting wood, and gardening. He was a member ot the Nashville Baptist Church. Charles was preceded in death by his parents. Benjamin am! Edith (Golden) Wait and son, James 1 ax* Wait. He is survived by wife ut 67 years. Jane Wait ol Hastings*, daughters, Julie Wait of Nashville and Cinda Johnson of Nashville and son, Steve Wait of Ixtapa. Mexico! granddaughters, Jamie Wait ol Battle Creek, and Trisha Johnson; grandsons, Lyndon Johnson of Holland and Kyle Johnson of Nashville and many great grandchildren. Cards and flowers can be sent to Jane Wait 402 E. State St Apt. |, Hastings. Mt 49058I'herc will not be a service. Arrangements by Ginbach Funeral Home* Hastings. Michigan. To leave online condolences xihll www. ginbachfuncralhonie.net. Worship Together ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... HASTINGS FREE MET HODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of Who Jesus Is To The World zVround Us”. 2635 N. M-43 Hwy., P.O. Box 8. Hastings. Telephone 269-945­ 9121. Email hastfmc<?. gmail. com. Website: uuw.hastings freemethodistconi. Pastor Brian Teed, Student Ministries Director, Emma Miller. Worship Director, Martha Stoetzel. Sunday Morning Worship: 9am and 10.30 a.m. beginning June 21 until further notice. Due to lhe current health crisis, our nursery is temporarily closed and we arc temporarily suspending all Children's ministries. Our church sanctuary is set up for sociid distancing. We do not require wearing masks, but do encourage it, especially while walking through lhe building before and after services. Please keep your fanuly together during die worship service. We arc a mulu-jrcnerational church family and understand that while this could mean outbursts or potty­ breaks, we arc not inconvenienced by your little one In an effort to help you. we are providing weekly activity bags for each child These bag* an* to be taken home or disposed <4 after each ST. ROSE OF LIM.A CATHOLIC CHURCH LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. 269-945-4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip. Mass 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Mass 8 and 11 a.m. Sunday. 301 E. Stale Rd.. PO Box 273. Hastings, Mi 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: w ww.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn. Hastings. Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m Sunday School for all ages: 10.30 a m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 pm.: Young Adults 6-9 pin. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30 8 p.m., Kids 4 Truth (Children Kindergarten-5 th Grade). 6*30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a m. Worship Time 10:30 a in. Youth activities: call for information. CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) PLEAS ANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor. Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 10 am. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday. 9:45 a.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 765, (comer of Milo Rd. & S. M 43), Delton. Ml 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool. (517) 20-1-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10;30 to 11:30am, Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 to 7:30 pin. 328 N Jefferson Street Won hip 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616 690-8609. use This information on worship sem'ic is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses^ ferfob 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 1699W.M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 1301W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 Geraldine Kay Barnes, age 82 of Wayland, passed away on August 7. 2020. She was bom on October 4.1937 in LansingGeraldine worked 10+ years for Baryames Dry Cleaners. She then started working for Fairview Schools as the lunch program coordinator, retiring in 1996* Shc l,lcn moved to Gun Lake full time. In her free time she loved to read. sew. crochet, and do jig5aw puzzles as well as spending time in her flower filled yard In the summers .she |0Ved going boating on Gun Lake with famH anj friends. In the winter she loved cheerim: o« her ,avonte basketball team m. \\lichipan State Spartans. ’ ‘ Geraldine was nr., -ried >n dealh. b* Donald Raymond Barnes dludiand); One R Clark (Father); vJ Clark (Mother): Arlene Donnley (si‘‘ Richard Clark Orieaia^^er). SIk is surv.ved by |ur chiWre n. Debbie Miner ot ShelbyvL Flo>d “Smokey” Morse (Sharon); x ^e(T (Sheila) of (Jerry । ol Plainwell, if /udy K'1", । 23 Llreal Grandchildren Si,.r:u,llchl|l .»(er (Tawford of Jackson TN f"'Ss of Jackson (Me" Auralj' A0 '?""' ’.n,,e „f LanM"!!- i,,,d Harrison. Auraife several loving losing ।2,.Ab,al":r.‘L>s. several 111 ‘CU of n,... tiow 25 a-In 1lieu »d n<-| . ^(ributions Ho>p»ce can be made nicm’ 1'11: 10 Elan* ... ....... . http*^ Foundation, -----elaracaringlK)Spi . 0rg/im?moual gills/, or PO Box 49204. Everyone h if.v-, ;icks‘)!b.fUorial service will be held o0 L ‘lv^ lo *l ,1K .7 2020 at 11 Joyce Hauens The family of Joyce Havens would like to invite to you join us fora Graveside Service to honor her memory. The service is scheduled lor August 22, 2020 at 11 a.m. at the living Township Cemetery. The address is -1028 West State Road, Hastings. We would be honored if you would join us. There will be a luncheon following the service at Fish Hatchery Park at (he large pavilion. • Traditional and Cvcnrauon Services • Pre planning Sen ices • large Barking Lot - Handicap Accessible • Serving AU Faiths • pre-arrangeincnt Transfers Accepted a.m. wiih a A’if\;’ following from 12-3 p.n. Mt;,hc>n iu”v jbwnship Park. 1659-I70?1 ^aHkce-V.y^yland. 49348. barker Pr’ ? (I.A”u”VcnH:,Usb „juncra)Honw. lo leave an U|p > ^inba^’ . sjsu girTbachfuncrdik u’ <-’ondo^lHX ‘v’ir.e1 r.bet 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI -1905® >69-9*15-3252 • vvww.girrbachfiM*vralhoim‘ n .'mmTuJEj/r Family Owned and Operated serving Hastings, Barn County and Surn>undhu! lias 4,lrd»;ul» Owiwr F.uivrltm S I... SOU .,rs �Young men tell of ‘hiking’ to Colome Readers who are rvh,...... un' reluctant to t { , atlas and following along as neo vuzme HnAnngs men maketheir way r<» Colorado in the summer of 922. Following the j^hway ^mostly US-M), lhcy ah, af^ed. slept where they were allowed and accepted rides from strangers. Luth u</v written after their arrival in Colorado: but the people they met and places thev saw were shared with readers here. This, the first letter penned by Richard "Dick" Cook, was published m the Aug. 16, 1922, Banner. HASTINGS BOYS ON THE HIKE Along Lincoln Highway to Colorado Have interesting experiences Cordially received in Brooklyn town jail Given many a friendly lift and other courtesies by cordial Western people We have mentioned before in our column the hiking trip to Colorado undertaken by Frederick "Ted" Hill Jr., son of F.E. Hill, manager of lhe table factory, and Richard • Cook, son ot W.R. Cook, of the Banner. This \ week, the latter has sent in an account of the ! first few days of their trip, which will be followed by more. They are now “doing” Colorado and are most enthusiastic over their first experience and think as a means of seeing the country, it beats riding on a train all hollow*. They have been planning this hike for almost two years, and have found it so interesting and worthwhile, they hope to follow it up with more and even lo gel across lhe "Big Pond" later and do Europe on foot. In lhe latter countries, education hikes are a part of every boys’ school life where they often go in large groups. With lhe completion of the Lincoln Highway, and the many lines that feed it. and offer such excellent means of foot travel, the custom is bound to develop in our own country. The Hastings boys have run into many other boys who were bound west on a similar purpose. No country in the world oilers finer scenic possibilities than America, and the east is rich in historical associations that make a trip into that section most valuable during school and college days. Hiking of this kind also develops independence and initiative and ought to be a good thing for any able-bodied school boy to undertake. We hope other young fellows here may follow Ted and Dick's example, and gel as much pleasure out oi it ns they. [It appears Ted Hill’s parents drove the two to Holland, took a car ferry to Chicago, and then continued the drive through most of Illinois before parting ways. The foot travelers and the auto “tourists" were reunited in Colorado.] look back at the stories columns on local history In the Hastings Banner TURNING BftGK THE PAGES The Mississippi River bridge between Fulton, III., and Clinton County, Iowa, no longer exists. But lifelong Hastings resident and former Banner editor Dick Cook recalled the 5-cent toll he and a buddy each had to pay to cross into the Hawkeye State in 1922. (Photo from the Lyell Henry Collection, provided by Iowa Lincoln Highway Association) I Iowa We had to pay a5<ent loll winch was about as much money was we spent all al once, save for a roadnup, during the entire trip. It was 9 o'clock when wc reached C linton, and we started immediately to hunt for a place to sleep. We found whalwe were looking for in the Tourists Camp, Ml i Mrs. Sullivan. who called herself "Litfe Eva" as a camp manager. She w as a clvac ter. Her line of chatter was almost c^te^uous. and she evidently was a strong exponent ol self­ » advertisement. and left no doubt at all as to ■ w ho was the boss in her camp. In spite of her peculiarities, she was very kind and gave us permission lo sleep on a couple ol old couches Dear Folks: in the cooking shack. In doing this, she Had a loner all ivady io mail out last week, extended a favor we received in no other but it got misplaced, so I had to begin all over camp along the whole route. The cols had again and that accounts for the delay. both seen better days, but they were softer Kept a fairly complete note book of each than the ground, and we managed lo sleep day’s events, so I wouldn’t forget things. Ted quite well on them. and I hit on all fours all the way. and made Richard ‘ Dick- Cook was 21 when he July 3. Arose early this AM. Just as we such speed that it was impossible to send and a17-year-old friend ‘ bummed" their were ready to start, a couple of fellows in an anything back but post cards, and you must have quite a collection by this time. I’ll try way from Illinois to Colorado in the sum­ overloaded flivver offered to give us a "lift” outside of town. They introduced themselves and send you an account of each day’s mer of 1922. He died in 1989, at age 88. as Buck and John Teller, from Pocatello. (File photo) happenings, and you might call it “Bummers Idaho. We liked their company, and they Afoot” if you can’t think of a better title. evidently liked ours, so that by 4 o’clock that Just for good luck, we started out Friday. you get close to it, it loses all shape and seems afternoon, they had taken us to Belle Plaine. June 30, getting to Holland in time to take lhe to be just a huge mass of cement. Iowa, where we left them in order to delour boat for Chicago. The lake was very foggy, ’l he road wc took going back was lined on from the Lincoln Highway loGrinnell to hunt and we got very little sleep due to the both sides with queer limestone formations activities of the fog horn. We got in Chicago [likely near Castle Rock Slate Park in Ogle up my old Bay View friends, the Cowdens. at 7:30 the morning of July I. and found it County. Illinois]. One. a particularly jagged- Both of lhe [Teller] boys had traveled through very interesting to watch the dock hands looking column, was called the “Devil’s the U.S. quite extensively The older one had unload the boat. Most of them were pretty Backbone.” and Fred remarked that be thought been ihrough part of Europe and South tough, hopeless-looking specimens, some of it needed osteopathic treatment. Another America, as well. They picked up some the big strapping fellows could find formation was called “Lover’s Leap." This money in lhe oil business, and made employment on farms easily with much better has a huge ledge of limestone rising above lhe considerable by hunting and trapping during the winter months. surroundings, but prefer this life, evidently. river to a considerable height. 1 don’t know After reaching Belle Plaine, we started for It was our original plan to start hiking what gave it its name, but any unfortunate about 25 miles out of Chicago, but on account lover could end his troubles here in a very' Victor. 12 miles distant, but three mijcs oult we came across a fellow w ho gHVe Uj} a (0 of the fog horn, and lhe little sleep we got the short time. Vidor, a little town about SJ7e o f night before, we were easily persuaded lo We bad an excellent dinner in Dixon, and stOppetj at remain tourisls for the rest of the day and get then got ready tor the hike. Our outfits Middleville. Outside of Victor, a good night’s rest in some hotel along lhe consisted of some old clothes, a blanket, a a farmhouse and asked for a drink of Water. Wc poncho and a small canvas bag in which we The farmer invited us in to suppcr road. We got our army blankets* and ponchos in took only the absolutely necessary toilet accept? Does a duck swim? After walking a few miles farther on. a lhe morning and struck a good bargain. articles. Mr. Hill drove us to lhe outskirts of truck slopped and gave us a lift jnto Brookhn Chicago was unusually crowded, and we bad Dixon where we hade them good-bye and We asked the driver if Brooklyn possessed became hikers instead of tourisls. lo simply feel our way along. It was a great |(e We fell quite self-conscious for lhe first any livery stables in which wceouij s| relief to strike the Open country' again. said ‘ No," but advised us to go t 0 c The Lincoln Highway is paved through few miles, since we seemed to attract quite a Illinois except for very short stretches of bil of attention with our blanket and poncho Wc went there and found the‘ mayor> w|lo gaVe excellent graveled road, making it possible strapped across our backs in regulation army us permission to sleep in lhe unvn jaj| p|ie for an auto to make fine time, and hardly .style. Some laughed, but many gave us a beds we found there were not comfortable, before we realized it. Mr. Hill had reached friendly nod or hand wave; and very soon the and the next morning, there were several large Dixon, only 60 miles from lhe Iowa border. It strangeness wore olf, and we were looking bites on me that I don t Ixclievc mosquitoes is a pretty little town about the size of forward with keen anticipation to the events could be blamed for. Got a late start and found that niOst of the Hastings, built along the banks of the Rock that were to come. ears were driving into Brooklyn for a Eight miles out ot Dixon, we picked up River. We turned in early, bad a good bed and a fine night’s rest {perhaps not far from the our first ride with a man going io Morrison. Fourth of July celebration The farming country we had passed home of Ronald Reagan, who moved to 111.The man was very pleasant, and seemed so through was fine. Iawn> ’nowcd, outbuildings interested in our trip, he offered to buy us Dixon in 1920. when he was 9 years old.] and houses well paint*- - and everything something to eat, but we didn ’ t let him. It The next day. Sunday, we drove over and shoulder high saw the famous Black Hawk monument {aka seems he took a similar trip when he was looked prosperous: ( oin and over al that time, the lr -t \ve ck jn ju|y The Eternal Indian, in Ixiwden Stale Park young, and when we got to Morrison, 111., he Nine miles out. a 1,1 into Grinnell wanted to take ns lo a picture show, but wc hear Oregon. JILJ. a distance of 25 miles. You and started immediate) o jU||n were anxious to cover a lew more miles that doubtless have read alx)ut it. It was executed Cowden residence. Wh1 <- u,^sing the college by Lorado liifl and was well worth the ext.a evening, >o we went right on A short distance n»’r lives. We trip. It'.s very impressive, and situated as u is outside ol Morrison, a car drew up, and the campus, wc got the heard someone hoUerW.*; Michigan” on a high bluff overlooking the Rock River, it driver offered to take us within eight miles of and looked up to find *• 1 and her party Fulton. lhe offer was immediately accepted. dominates the landscape. We saw rttwo miles away . It is made of cement and is 60 fee high .Alter this ride, wc got another, and found the (Virginia [Ted’s sisU’r‘* . . U|den [Ted's A>r,’T»ne Bnien). and in spite of if* remarkable size, rt has a driver an Americanized Englishman, who said inatcinal grandmother! •• We hud k-ft Mrs. Hill »» Dixon. |||(. when he was only a kid, he had Inked all scry sraceful. artistic appearance. It shows *e. the Indian chief Black 1 lawk overhiokmg he through England and Scotland. Ik- wished us and she was as surpnsCl1/ . . thcbeslofiuek. l ied naturally attH . ^, nv ‘ ' vlf to ihcrn. old hunting grounds of h.s tribe, lhe approach i and I went on to ioe.it*• nhrr ^^ 11 * uhom 1 After arriving m l ulton, wc crossed the to It is very steep and narrow, but the view found al home with l u ’ r ‘ m in ’ who gave great bridge over the Mississippi into Clinton, from (he top makes the effort worthwhile. As । me a very cordial rvcep‘ P’tc ot the fact Dick Cook wrote about a side trip to see the Black Hawk monument, or the Eternal Indian, in the summer of 1922. The impressive statue could be seen from two miles away, he said, “and in spite of it’s remarkable size, it has a very graceful, artistic appearance." (Flickr image) that they hadn’t seen me in 12 years and that I had a two days’ growth of beard. Was disappointed not lo find Dudley and Mabie al home, l he former was at Chicago University this summer working for his M.A. degree, and the latter is teaching in Colorado. [Dudley J. Cowden went on to become a college professor, statistician and author, and he and Cook both lived well into their 80s.] Grinnell is a very pretty place, and I would have like to have stayed longer. I had dinner with them, and Ted with his family at the hotel. We drove with [Ted’s family] through Des Moines to Stuart. On the way to Stuart, we picked up two fellows whom I recognized as being Michigan University students, and they rode with us from Des Moines to Stewart. One of the fellows was Jack Malone of Grand Rapids, a student in journalism al the University. He was “bumming it" to the coast and up ihrough British Columbia, after which he intends to write up lhe trip for a magazine. Dulch. his buddy, was an "experienced" bummer, having made the trip several limes. July 5. We drove outside of Stuart and started hiking again Very shortly we picked up a ride to Casey. Here, we took a shortcut to Adair, and about one mile out of town, came across a man who said we could ride clear ihrough to Omaha with him. We stopped in Atlantic for lunch and arrived in Omaha about 3 o’clock. Here we hunted up lhe “Y” and had a swim and a much-needed baih. We hiked most of lhe way out to Omaha, and it was an uphill climb and a hard pull. Just outside of lhc city, we received a ride to Valley, where we decided to spend the night. We hunted up a Mr. Smith, who gave us permission to sleep in the stockyard hay barn. Since this is stretching oul quite long, will close for this time and write more later. To be continued... 2 PUBLIC NOTICE All Barry County Townships APPLICATIONS FOR DEFERMENT OF SUMMER 2020 TAXES Application Deadline: Sept. 15, 2020 All township treasurers in Barry County are currently accepting applications for summer 2020 tax deferments (determents are not exemptions). To qualify, a house­ hold annual income cannot exceed $10,000. The applicant(s) must also be: 1) 62 years of age or older, including the unmarried surviving spouse of a person who was 62 years of age or older at the time of death. 2) paraplegic, hemiplegic or quadriplegic. 3) an eligible sen’iceperson, eligible veteran or their eligible widow or widower 4) a blind person, or 5) a totally and permanently disabled person. Those that farm agricultural real property may also qualify if the gross receipts of the farming operation are not less than the household income of the owner. Addi­ tional information and deferment applications may be obtained from the following treasurers: ASSYRIA TOWNSHIP HOPE TOWNSHIP Terry Ryder-Stephens, Treasurer Arlene Tonkin. Treasu (269) 339-9569 <269) 948-2464 BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP Melissa VanSyckle. Treasurer IRVING TOWNSHIP Lyr.n-itte V/ingejef. Tfeca?. (269) 72F3502 (269) 948-256? BARRY TOWNSHIP (259i 9 IB -2191 JOHNSTOWN TOWNS: iT CARLTON TOWNSHIP Tem Geiger, Treasurer THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP Detxa Bvckow no. Tieasure iz'69) 79a-7202 “ WOODLAND TOWNSHIP S\iv,n Durkee. Treasurer Judrth Wooer, Treasurer (269) 623-5171 RUTLAND TOWNSHIP Sandra Greenfield. Treasurer .260) 367-4915 (269) 721-3611 . MAPLE grove TV. p G nq?r Cole. Tear>-’t YANKEE SPftNGS TOWNSHIP A>o Jansrna. Treasurer (?6S) 7^-9031 r269» 945-5990 CASTLETON TOWNSHIP joy Mulder. Treasurer (517) 852-9479 HASTINGS CHARTER TWP. Jenee PnJ.os. Treasurer (269) 948-9690 MJChel’e R.!Ch:t'. Treasurw CHY OF HASTINGS franc ■? Brummel, Treastrer (269) 864-4522 (2C9, 945 2468 ORANGEViltf TOWNSHIP PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP .269’ 623-2664 �Barry Intermediate School District loses two programs r Microbes by the millions Z)r Unnrra<'.‘ «,„■ many A/,.' Jevauni, 9. Caniidu Deal Jevauni, There are lots of liny living things on our planet we call microbes. I hey live in the soil, water, air. your gut and on your face. You’d probably need a microsco|>c to see them. While wc can’t exactly count all lhe microbes on the planet, we do know there are about a billion microbes in a teaspoon oi soil. Meanwhile, some scientists have estimat­ ed there arc mure microbe species on Earth than there are stars in the sky. One way we can leant more about these microbes is to look at their DNA. Just like yon. a lot of microbes have DNA. This DNA is like a genetic code that determines traits such as hair color or eye color. Il is also what determines a microbe’s shape, size, and what it eats. These differ­ ences in DNA can help u>« tell different microbes apart. That's what I found from my friend Viveka Vadyvaloo. She is a scientist at Washington State University who studies a kind of microbe called bacteria. In particular, she is curious about bacte­ ria, called Yersinia pcstis that causes bubon­ ic plague. The microbe is usually passed along through fleas and can make people and other animals sick. Bacteria are just one group of microbes. Some of them make us sick, but others are good and can help us digest our food. Archaea is a microbe that lives in the guts of termites and can help lhe insects break dow n the wood they eat. Fungi are another kind of microbe, like the yeast wc use to bake bread. Protozoa make up another group of microbes. This group is home to the amoe­ ba. Il’s an animal made up of a single cell that can catch food and moves around using little finger-like parts. If you remember our question about some of lhe longest-lived creatures on Earth, you know that cyanobacteria arc another group of microbes that can make their own food from sunlight. Vadyvaloo said another way to learn about microbe populations is to make them reproduce in a lab. “When I work in the lab with my bacteria. I can make a nice nutritional meal lor them and 1 can have them prow' so I can study them." she said “But there are a number of bacteria, and wc don’t know what they all like lo cat. It we can’t prow them, we don’t always know they exist.’’ she said. Finally, there are viruses. Viruses are microscopic, but they are not considered living things. They can’t reproduce without a ho<t. They need to gel into the cells of humans or other animals to keep their popu­ lations going. This is how the novel corona­ virus spread around lhc world. “lhe one thing wc don’t know is how many microbes evolve,” said Vadyvaloo. It sure makes me wonder about what kinds of microbes we may discover in the future. Who knows, maybe one day we’ll be counting on y ou to help us learn more about how these liny living things shape our big world. Dr. Universe Know a kid with it science question? With help from my friends at Washington State University, we're investigating tough and smart questions from curious kids around lhe world. Send a question to Dr. Universe^! wsu.edu or visit lhe website, ask­ druniversejctim. Man violates bond,, claims wife took meth Barry County Sheriff's deputies responded to a noise complaint at an Erica Lane home in Shelbyville at 12:09 a.m. Aug. 9. looking through a window, deputies saw a 50-ycar-old Plainwell man sleeping inside. The man, w ho was out of jail on bond, was told not to go near lhe home or contact his 3-year-old daughter, who also was inside. The man went out to meet the deputies who told him he was violating the terms of his bond agreement. After he started lo return to the house, deputies were forced to restrain him. A department-issued police microphone was broken in the scuffle. While the man was being transported to the Barry County Jail, he said his wife was on meth, leaving him to watch his daughter. He told deputies he was concerned his daughter would have access to meth when she was with her mother. The man also said his dog had eaten a gram of meth. When officers attempted to question him further, police said he began to yell racial and homophobic slurs at them. Trooper bitten white getting treat for dog A Michigan State Police trooper was bitten by a dog while responding to a domestic vio­ lence complaint at 9 a.m. July 30. according to a Barry County Sheriff’s deputy, The trooper arrived at the McKeown Road residence in Hastings and spoke with the res­ idents. a 42-year-uld woman and 40-year-old man. He took the woman into custody. During the call, he noticed the couple’s dog running in their yard. The trooper said he thought the dog was friendly and walked to his car to get the dog a treat, l he dog followed him. When the trooper leaned inside the cruiser to get the treat, the dog leapt at him. bit his call and broke the skin. According lo the deputy’s report, the dog was quarantined at the home, lhe case was closed after lhe dog’s quarantine expired on Aug. It). Man drives off after pumping $20 in gas Barry County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a complaint trom a 35-year-old Nashville woman at 12:43 p.m. Aug. 8. The woman was working at the Marathon gas station and C-Storc and reported .seeing a man m a gold or tan van pull up and begin pumping gas. A rush of customers came into the store at lime, distracting the woman from seeing the man. 7 he woman told otnccis lhe man drove off after pumping $20 wonh ol gas.The Nashville woman told police she could no! identify the van's license plate from security footage. Officers drove around, looking for the van, but were unsuccessful Die case is inactive. -r . Luke Fron‘hfck Staff Wfiter Fourteen H ‘ intermediate School District staff n,..,nher. may have a new employer officials informed Supcriniendtnt R-jiaId Franklin that the Calhoun hitcnnediate School District would be taking 0Vcj. * (-n.nK-ial management of '"•n!™;?1;1’’1- Harry ISD pm?mms 1 ,K Q a,houn ISD will be given the financial management 0| ‘ (|1C Great Start Readiness Program ;,n(1 Grea( Slart Collaborative. Franklin said during a virtual Tuesday board meeting. 6 The Comniunily Action Agency will operate the GSRp program, he said. "Only Communitv Action Agency has the presence jn {)ur' cOinmunity and the demonstrated .-inicitv to take this on." Franklin said. P Another community organization is in negotiations to manage the Great Start Collaborative program. Franklin said the organization could not be named until a deal is finalized. Families should not see any programming changes due to the transition, he added. The program shift comes after a settlement was reached in the ongoing dispute Ix’tvveen the BISD and state officials. Franklin and the Barry ISD Board of Education agreed to pay back 20 percent, or $26,700, of $133500 in questioned costs found in the district’s administration of lhe Great Start Readiness and Great Start Collaborative programs during a state audit. The settlement, which included a stipulation saying slate officials might come in and request the transfer of the program to another ISD. was reached July 24. Franklin said he was notified of state officials’ intentions to move the programs July 28. Marriage ficenses Elizabeth Marie Beaudoin. Hastings and Kyle Peter Roqrh.Middleville Delwin Wayne Craven. Hastings and Debra Joanne Reed.Pulaski, Wi Janet Marie Schluckbier, Hastings and Jeremiah Michael Smith. Nashville Brandon Raymond Warner. Middleville and Abigail Erin Brower Bryan Daniel Elwen, Hastings and Carrie Catherine Aspinall. Hastings Tressa Marie Hinckley. Nashville and Rusty Lee George. Nashville Zachary Brian Witherspoon. Plainwell and Jenna Marie Hausennann. Plainwell Paige Delaney Greer. Hastings and Michael Jason Bekker. Hastings LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate PILE NO. 19-2B228'DE Estate of oUo ^0Jnenee. Date of brth: 09/29/1964. TO ALL CREDITORS' NOTICE TO CREDITORS: Tho decedent. Otto Momenee, dIC<j 04/07/^019Creditors of ric-cdent are notified that all claims against the pctate w;i1 b0 forever barred unless presarittJ ^ber Zech, personal representative Or lh0 probate court al 206 West Court Str^%.e 302. Hasl,n9S’ Ml 49059 the P(?fSonal ’ Amative w.thin 4 months □Iter lhe date of pupation of this nolle©. Date: 08'05/202qP David H. Tripp 202 South BroadT ° Hasbngs, Ml 4905^ (209)945-9535 058 Amber Zc-cti 100 North 28th Si Battle Creek mi (269)324.633^ 4’015 145514 Dog runs through electric fence, chases woman Sheriff’s deputies responded to a 91J call from a 77-year-old Caledonia woman. The woman said she was chased by a dog while out on a bike ride at 11 a.m Aug. 6.The dog did not catch up lo her or bite her. Die officer went lo the Noffkc Road home where lhe woman : .rid she originally saw the dog. The. dog’s owner, a 26 year old Caledonia man, said he had just gotten a new, stronger, electric fence collar. lhe deputy advised the man that his dog h id to remain on his property. The man said he would uheek the electric fence system for flaws, lhe case is closed. Vehicle missing from Bradford White lot A deputy responded to a call from Bradford W hilt < orp. in Middleville at 4:23 a.m. July 2. Employees reported seeing two men trying to get into locked vehicles in the parking lol. A sheriff’s deputy checked the scene but did not find the men At 5:45 a rn . a 27-year-old Nashville man reported that his vehicle was stolen trom the parkin;, lot. but no j; n ol a break-m was found, lhc- man insisted that Ins tar h id been locked. The case is still nnd.r investigation. CASE no. ANO 206 W Court ^Hastings. Ml 49053 Court Tek' '• Suite ln m«le< TO ALL nr? unknown barc-d w intf'*5TAKE NOfS? by me J v.ticse address is {)uHe be .. .l d on 09 0.^020 '52ure Ab '4':,;7'y.’.t fiasungs Ml 49058 A h>?ad<X) Ju<jyF7?.v'•*< '. Court the name Co«rf S*r^ to Ol ..... hfcm M. Pc Aaron k^..,h r> Gray to JTriV tO •''>/ 'to L-00 Raeanne G1 u Aaron Lvnn Ronnof Gray. ^'ivnner-G.’ay Lve'yn Renner-Gray Owc-n Shd Amelia . . . I in sorry tn lose the programs, but I m pleased that it would be Calhoun to have fiscal management.” Franklin said. "1 be work will continue." BISD employed seven GSRP lead teachers, seven associate teachers.one floater substitute, one GSC coordinator and a GSC home visitor last year. Hopefully, our very dedicated and talented staff will continue to work with these children, board vice president Carl Schoessel said. W hile GSRP and GSC staff are expected to transition with the program. Franklin said, budget cuts may occur due lo the $1 billion stale aid shorttail in the state’s school aid fund. Regardless, these 17 staff members will not be employed by Barrv ISD when the transition finalizes. Barry IS I) staff are encouraged to apply for positions at the Community Action Agency, Franklin said. I think we have done an exceptional job,” board President Bob Becker said. “Fin very disappointed in the way the state has acted and the result of those actions. We just hope the kids and families are as well-served through Calhoun as they were ihrough us.” The transition’s impact on Barry ISD will be minimal. Franklin said. GSRP programs function in the Delton Kellogg and Hastings school districts. 1 hey will continue to operate in those locations. The daily operation and location of offices for GSC has not yet been determined. Until then, Barry- ISD will continue to house GSC meetings. “We’re very sorry not to have these programs under our administration,” Franklin said. “The important thing to us is that children and families are served.” The program transition still has to be approved by Delton Kellogg and Hastings boards of education. l hc fiscal impact of lhe transition should be neutral or even positive, Franklin said. The programs are funded by state grants, which barely covers their costs, if that, he said. “Although we did not desire the transfer of these programs. I could not have picked better partners to work with than our friends at Calhoun ISD and Community Action Agency," Franklin said. "Our primary concern is that children and families continue to receive high-quality preschool and early childhood services. We are confident (hat is happening.” Board members also approved the BISD’s retuni-to learn plan for the upcoming school year. Barry 1SI) will provide instruction to all students using online instruction whenever possible. Franklin said. Students participating in online learning will be provided electronic devices. Paper nnekeb Will be distributed to Mudenu twble ^'Lse virtu’.Hean.ing. All instruction win be provided based on students needs and •dividual education plans, he said. " Th ■ district also will prov.de face masks tmdents may wear homemade masks, but the masts must be laundered daily. -Students who 22 unable lo remove a mask on the.r own will ;,ot be required to wear one. Parents should indicate to staff whether the.r ch.ld can remove a mask. Staff members are reqmrcd to wear face masks all day. All students and staff will be instructed Jo wash hands for 20 seconds and apply hand .sanitizer every two to three hours. Frankhn said. Students also will be ...strutted to adhere to social distancing guidelines when using their lockers. * Bathrooms will be cleaned every fohr hours, and all computer labs and hands-.jn items will be cleaned after every use. Student desks and tables will be wiped down after meals. Items used for play also will be cleaned between every use. • Students who display symptoms of COVID19 will be required to quarantine until thqir parents pick them up. Franklin said. • Staff members who test positive arc required to stay away’ from the school for jit least 14 days. i Hand sanitizer will be available on every bus. Frequently touched surfaces will be cleaned before and after each bus route. Weather permitting, bus windows and doors will be kept open while cleaning. With student safety in mind, Franklin said bus windows may be left open while students are riding the bus to allow for continuous airflow. j In other news, the board: • Accepted the resignation of treasurer Sharon Boyle. In a message to Franklin, Boyle said she felt she was unable to keep her commitments to lhe board due to other work responsibilities. Franklin recommended the position be kept open until the June 2021 election when Boyle's term would have expired. Her replacement must be a Delton area resident. • Approved the hiring of staff members, including Kara O’Heam, Hastings Middle School programming: Deann Grabemeyer. West Learning Center behavior programming; Krista Traxler, paraprofessional; Jackson Hoke, paraprofessional; Amanda Zalewski, paraprofessional; and Cloe Rose Oliver, administrative assistant. •Accepted a bid from McGraw Construction of Grand Rapids for $56,922 for the renovation of space in two seclusion rooms at the West Learning Center in Hastings. The other bid was from Trumble Group of Lansing for $66500. McGraw Construction officials submitted a bid for $50,922. but the board added a contingency fee of $5,100 should there be other costs. i ■ -B. jFmandal FOCUS Provided by the Barry County offtces of Edward Jones Brandon Wilkins Member SIPC 307 E. Green St, Ste. 1 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-2003 Kevin Beck, AAMS® 400 W. State St., Suite B Hastings, Ml 49053 (269) 945-4702 When facing illness, take control of finances In light of the coronavirus pandemic, virtually all of us have considered health-related issues. But for people facing a serious, chronic illness, such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, diabetes or cancer, health concerns arc an everyday matter, if you’re fortunate, you may never lie afflicted with such maladies, but the future is unpredictable. Of course, going through these health challenges bring physical and emotional concerns - but also financial ones. How can you prepare for them? Essentially, you’ll need to consider four key areas' investments, insurance, legal arrangements and taxes. Let’s take a quick look at each of them: Investments You’ll likely need lo draw on vour investments for at least some ol the expenses associated with your illness. So, within your portfolio, you may want lo establish a special fund devoted entirely to these costs, whether they U health carc\ modiheations to your home, transportation und so on. A financial professional can help you choose invcMmenh for this fund. a.» a ell as make recommendations for your overall invo.inicnt strategy, including techniques for boosting your income, such us addinr. investment that can provide an income stream that kicks in when you think your costs will rise. Insurance - Depending on your health status, you may be able to collect Medicare earlier than lhe traditional starting point at age 65. Even so, you’ll likely need to supplement it with additional coverage. But you may also want to look beyond health insurance. For example, you might be able to purchase a "chronic illness rider” that allows you ty tap into lite insurance benefits while you’re still alive. Or you might consider adding a ‘ long-term care rider’’ to a life insurance policy, this rider offers financial benefits if you ever require daily care that you can’t provide for yourself. And some foundations, Mates and drug companies offer programs that can help pay for some costs that your insurance won’t cover. Legal arrangements^ If yHl haven't already done so, \ou may want to establish the legal documents most appropriate for your situation, such as a durable power of attorney for tuiaiKes, which gives someone the authority to manage y0Ur hiuncial affairs if sou become leniponirily incapacitated possibly due to tl4tv-ups of your chronic disease. One you’ve recovered, you regain control of )Pur fina£.a| decisions. You might also want lo consider a health care proxy, which appoints an individual to make medical decisions for you it you can’t. In creating or revising these documents, you’ll need to consult with your legal professional. Taxes - You might qualify tor Social Security disability payments, which, like other Social Security benefits, arc taxable, so you’ll need lo be aware ot what you might owe. Uut you might also be eligible for some tax breaks related to your condition. If you still itemize tax deductions, you may be able to deduct some medical expenses, as well as certain home improvements. -MJch as w heelchair ramps, alhlub grab bars, motorized ^tairlitts and so on. Your lax divisor may have suggestions Appropriate for your situation. foaling with a chronic is never easy. But by considering how your illness I'f.. aspects of your 1 ' • getting the help you need, and taking the right Meps. you ,n‘l> be able <0 reduce \he ‘Hancia! slre>s on jou anj toved ones. fhis article was written fry Ui( by your '11-. Eduard Junes Financial ^avtsor. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 13. 2020— Page 9 Residents concerned over safety at Gull Lake boat launch Luke Froncheck Staff W'r iter E;ist Gull l ake Road resident Rich \\blo">Li loW lhc l?an> VovvnUup Board ot rr.j«ees Tuesday he’s afraid someone is going tn be killed. Wolowski and F.nc Longman, a Baseline Road resident, addressed the board lo express ' oncem> with the township’s Gull 1 akc boat ’jguiichott’Baseline Road. “Someone is going to gel run over by hoal.*' Wolow ski said “I want lo inform you , Uxlay that you haw a big safety issue.” . Both men reported seeing individuals out . swimming, picnicking and snorkeling where • boats enter and exit the lake. Township ordinance prohibits people from dimming, picnicking, fishing or sunbathing al lhc Baseline Road launch. /\ sign on the property reads: "This is not a picnic or swimming area.” "I want to give lhe township police department credit because they’ve been very helpful.” Longman said. More than 22 cars were lined up behind the launch on a recent Saturday, Uvngman said. Holiday weekends attract even more people and vehicles. When lhe nearby Gull Lake boat launch in Prairieville Township becomes overcrowded. Longman said police reportedly have begun directing cars to the Baseline Road launch. Wolpvvski requested a full time police officer be stationed at lhe launch lo limit recreational activity for the remainder of lhe summer Supervisor Wesley earner listens as township residents express concerns over the Gull Lake boat launch off Baseline Road. “I think this county has to do something about this,” he said. "There has already been one person killed on the lake thjs summer.” Township Supervisor Wesley Kahler said he was in contact with Brad Lainberg. executive director of the Barry County Road Commission, about the issue. Longman recommended die township look into postingan attendant at the launch to limit the size and number of boats accessing the launch. A sign posted at the Gull Lake boat launch off Baseline Road in Barry Township lists pales for the property. (Photo provided) Jwwborn babies n Silas Robert Grummet, Ixmi at Spectrum .■Health Pennock on July 8, 2020 to Barbara ..Grummet and Benjamin Grummet of Hastings. > "t’ Mi ft ft •Nash Joseph Gahan, born at Specinim Health Pennock on July 9. 2020 to Kylie ..•Standler and Mitchell Gahan of Hastings. ..Chcvdle Marie Wilder, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on July 10, 2020 to Laura 'Hause and Phillip Wilder Jr. of Hastings. ft* Josephine Lou, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on July 11.2020 to Meaghan Miller and David Miller of Hastings. to Jenna Elizabeth Hovingh and Charles Hovingh of Middleville. Blake ft ft ft ft ft Terry lynn Josephine Felder, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on July 25, 2020 lo Jack! Sue Brzycki and Curtis J. Felder of Nashville. Charlee Rose Burger, born at Spectrum Heallh Pennock on July 25, 2020 to Kayla Danielle Gorodenski and Dylan Scott Burger of Hastings. ft * ft ft # Sophia Lee Cranmore. bom at Specinim Heallh Pennock on July 28. 2020 lo Jessica Back and Jordan Cranmore of Nashville. /ft 4 ft ft ft ft ft ft ft ft John Duane Hoffman, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on July 15. 2020 to Kelsey Hoffman and Cole Hoffman of Clarksville. Saoirse Jane Grummet, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on July 28. 2020 to Ruthanne Grummet and Luke Grummet of Middleville. Kamryn Ann Shaw, bom at Spectrum Heallh Pennock on July 17. 2020 lo Kayla Shaw and Tyler Shaw of Woodland. jCindy W. Mullet, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on July 21.2020 to Maureen Mullet and William Mullet of Nashville. Hadley Elizabeth Hovingh, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on July' 24. 2020 Swimmers can be seen in the water near the Gull Lake boat launch oh Baseline Road. (Photo provided) OFFICE OF THE BARRY COUNTY DRAIN COMMISSIONER NOTICE OF DAY OF REVIEW OF DRAINAGE DISTRICT BOUNDARIES AND REVIEW OF APPORTIONMENTS DATE: TIME: LOCATION; August 20. 2020 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Yankee Springs Township Hall 284 N, Briggs Road Middleville, MI 49333 VIRTUAL LOCATION: Zoom Meeting Link: http://wvvw.bit.ly/2Xvp5HV Zoom Meeting Password: 9768523 CALL IN: Meeting ID: 2S1 910 5661 (312)626-6799 QUESTIONS Prior to Day of Review: (269) 945-1385 . .1 nr .m-.op District boundaries and apportionment of benefit for the The Dav ol Review is an opportunity to review ^Drainage £ ^aps of lhc proposed Drainage District boundary Drains listed below with the Drain Commissioner or a stall tncmtx . p i revisions can be found on Barry County’s website at: w ww b«'rt2 v'Odn L(r • i engineer .has recommended ,, i ,,i hnds Aarlicensed। professional ands be be added aouc or removed from the Drainage DrainaceDistricts. Districts A is general as follows: description ol lhe lands by section number proposed to be adeko -------------- -------- : Municipality Drain Name ***** Kinsley Rae Stephens, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on July 30. 2020 to Amber Hollister and Damian Stephens of Lake Odessa. Orangeville Township .. Orangeville Township 8,9, 16 8,9 _________ L tem Drain________ __ Orangeville Township 8, 9, 16, 17 2,3,4,9-11, 14-17, 20-23,25-29,32-35 3,4 8, 17 7, 17, 18, 20 ***** Ncveah Anne Lahman, bom at Spectrum 1 lealth Pennock on August 1.2020 10 Selena Lahman. Orangeville Township < reek Dram Prairieville Township Deal lntcrcounty Drain Orangeville Township ____19, 20, 29,30 Duncan Lake Im^ountyDrmn 7’hornapple Township 17, 19,20. 30 Finkbejncr 0rajn_____ _ Thomapple Township Orangeville lownship Prairieville Township Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945.9554 Orangeville lownship Gun River Intcrcounty Drain Prairieville lownship Thomapple lownship Yankee Springs Township MAI I ENDSLE Y, FA BRICATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804 7506. Garage Sale GARAGE SALE: HU-SAT, 8/14&8/15/2O. 9am-? 249* W. State Rd, Hastings._____ YOU'VE GO I I O SEE IT 70 BELIEVE I I! Evervthing $1.00 or less! Half the pro­ ceeds go to the Hastings An­ imal Shelter. Sat., Aug. 15th, 2020 9am-6pm. 2122 Jeanne Dr., Algonquin Lake. 31,32 <7T9715,16.22T ^7, 1435------- 7,16-18 2-4,9-T1,74-18, ... 2^-23-25-2^ 32-35­ 3,4____ For Sale lint^tonDrain Orangeville Township DELTON, MICHIGAN- SE­ NIOR Subsidized housing for people who are 62-ye.irs and older with certain income restrictions. 1-bedroom apart­ ments available. Non-smok­ ing, secured f.icility, Close to downtown Delton. Call for more information at 2h9623 4000 or 'I I Y National Relay 711 Equal Housing Opportunity. CARRON SPORT AIR 1 lockey 1 able. $300.00 OBO. Phone 269-908-1654._______ Orangeville Creck inter(.ounly Drain Orangeville Township Rcinln^nty Drain Orangeville Township 19, 29-32____ Yankee Springs Township 15, 16,21.22___ _ Yankee Springs Township 15- 16,22, 27,28 _ Help Wanted CONS! RUCTION LABOR­ ER NEEDED: Need own transportation. (2b9)-420- KASSON 10FT OAK Pool Table, excellent condition. $1,000.00 or OBO. 269-908­ 1654 ______ JoW12 Dj^Nq, 3 _____ yVillc-nKl^j^i,, \Vilso11 lntercoiintv nr..;.. I’VBLISHEITSNOnCE? Prairies iHe Township f’luYni innlt* loWIlsllID • 19. 20 5.8, 17, 19,20,30 7,8, 17, 18 2,3,4,9-11, 14-1/, 70-73 75-79 32-35 3,4 ___ . 2. 10. 11, 14. 15. 22 23J*5^2I 31-35 3,4,6 T or Rent business Services BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, While Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call lor pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Injured, liability & workman's comp, Fetterley Logf'ing, (269)818-7793. Portions ot Portions of1 Sections Added__ Sections Removed 7-8_______ 8. 17.18L_ _________ L halkcr Drain_______ _ I-ish Lake Drain BELLS CONSTRUCTION* 18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, name improve merits power washing. 269-320-3890. Password: 9768523 7,8 16,21 - - -——----------- 4,31.32 6 _ zmnnii4,6.9,15,34 7,8,18 7, 8 _ _ __ _____ 1IS 16 *v ~~2O._21 _ ___ 18, 19,30 and make and/or other Mafl’mcmbcix will be available to assist The Drain rev C‘»nimoik Vniwiwh On.,. r enL’tncct.s, . . individuals ..................throughout the day view-. The eonipuLgj( necessary. There is no need to schedule an appointment for a specific time on the Dav of Reare collected in the S; ’ lJ Ccsts for the Drains listed abov e w ill aLo be av ailable al the Day of Rev jew. Dram assessments collected l‘,r niorc i|la e banner as property taxes and will ap|>car on your winter tax bill. If drain assessments are being jurther interest ehargen °l1e 1 >ear, you may pay the assessment in full with any interest to date at any time and avoid 033). Farm 18 MONTH OLD Angus Bull. $2,800. Canfield Angus Farm. 616-3-10-8072. Di un ('oninii ss’n'•tbilm ‘ncr'tS. nee<^ng accommodations for effective participation in lhe Day of Review should contact the Persons with ^ .... (I DD) al lea^t 24 hou:H t^e plmnc number listed above (voice) or through the Michigan Relay Center al 7-l-| ‘ r s *n advance of (he Day of Review to request mobility, visual. he:iring or other assistance. V ou nh-) ^1.^ (। }’ain Commissioner’s decision to rev i\e the I Jramage District boundaries to the Barry Couniv Circini ( mnt within ten (Itjj J *‘> s. and you may also appeal the deicnnimttion of apportionments to the Barry County’ Probate Jim Dull Barry County Drain Commissioner �Page 10 — Thursday. August 13. 2020 — lhe Hastings _ USDA: Barry Township no longer eligible for $200K water tower grant Luke The Banj T B(^.ir>l of Trustees arc now con\i<|Cri n million loan to fund conslnictio,, Qf » in thc township. of had .>ppi”ved the 'pending "m9 ni' for» fu" ‘Wllca“on,!n ul>' J)I9 alter lcami f n, their pre-application they possibly W".L ^lieible for a KOO.IXX) grant lowam .j, . ? Due to lowc^JJ^cnisi rates. USDA offictals said Barry Township no longer qualified 1 Barry Township Treasurer, Judy Wooer, examines a document while clerk Deb Knight looks on. Items sought for United Way’s backpack program While this year’s school experience may look different for each famil). some Barry County children will still need help with school supplies. 'The Barry County United Way will con­ tinue its annual backpack program to provide Uttkpacks and school supplies for young stu­ dents. “School will look different - virtual, homeschool, face-to-face, hybrid - but we know that the need for school supplies is not going away, no matter the platform for learn­ ing,” BCUW Executive Director Lani Forbes said. “We are committed to helping children be successful in any school environment and thus will be providing supplies to any family who qualifies, regardless of which path they take for education.” Distribution will Lake place the week of Aug. 17 for children living in homes at 200 percent of the poverty level or below. Those interested in receiving a backpack for their children may leant lheir eligibility by calling Barry County United Way, 269-945­ 4010. Once eligibility is determined, a time will be scheduled for the child to “shop" for his or her pre-filled backpack. Distribution will be a drive-through for­ mat, by appointment. The Highpoint Community Bank parking Jot in Hastings will be the location to provide backpacks and school supplies to eligible Barry County children in young 5s through J 2th grade for lhe coming school year. Last year. 310 children received school supplies and a backpack. “We are thankful for those in our commu­ nity that choose to partner with us, as well." Nancy Goodin, HCB marketing director, said. “Community members who would like to contribute school supplies are invited to drop those off al any Highpoint Community Bank branch. Our employees are really excited about helping with this special project and we hope our friends and customers will join us in this project, as well.” HCB has branches in Hastings. Middleville. Nashville. Bellevue. Wayland, Caledonia and Marshall. Items also may be dropped off in Hastings at Thomapple Credit Union. Walker. Fluke and .Sheldon, Barry County United Way. Edward Jones (421 W. Woodlawn Ave.), and Hastings Public Library. More backpacks for girls are needed for all ages - elementary ihrough high school. For boys, only elementary -age/style back­ packs are needed. Items requested to fill backpacks include spiral notebooks, pocket folders, pens, pen­ cils, boxes of colored pencils, boxes of mark­ ers. pairs of scissors, glue sticks, three-ring binders, pencil sharpeners, pencil-top erasers, glue bottles, packets of loose leaf paper, cal­ culators, dry-erase markers, and packaged index cards. “Each year, we see an increase in the num­ ber of families that need assistance purchas­ ing school supplies, so we are very thankful that Highpoint Community Bank and so many others are partnering with us on this project. This program will allow families to focus on their basic needs instead of how to include this added expense in their monthly budget,” Forbes said. For more information on donating or reg­ istering. individuals may call Barry1 County United Way. 269-945-1010. NOW TAKING APPLICATIONS for NEWSPAPER CARRIERS! ROUTES (WALKING & DRIVING) AVAILABLE IN BARRY COUNTY • Paid Weekly • I I ■ MUST APPLY IN PERSON AT OUR HASTINGS OFFICE 1351 N M-43 Highway runiindBP j 77ie People Paper' C°' Appointed this •» how it hap­ pened, engine sieve Bishop from Flcis and Vandenbnnk E„ 1 rf of Grand Rapids, told the boarq its meeting Tuesday evening. “Tj^y [USDAI K’d rne down a Path that did not end up'where we arc now." lhe grant application process is based on in,ed ^kh.0u’el»’ld income - which is roughly 544,000 m the Delton area- Due to thc low­ ered interest rates the project cost would decrease. “USDA is basically saying. ‘You do such a good job keeping water bills low that you get a bit of a punishment.” Bishop said. If the board pursued lhe $1.4 million loan, the 200,000-ga||on water lank would be paid for by township residents ihrough incremental payments over 40 years. Bishop said. Residents would pay up lo 1 -5 percent of lheir annual water bill !o fund lhe project. Should housing developments be construct­ ed in the township and more residents added onto the water system, the cost will be spread to the new residents, as well. If thc board decides not to move forward on the project, it WouId oul the $22,000 spent on the application process. “Pm just simply thc guy delivering lhe information.” Bishop said. Trustee Lee Campbell said it is important lhe board hear from township residents before Trustee Lee Campbell requested board packets be provided to residents attending monthly meetings. making a decision. I agree, this is a big opportunity for thc township,” Clerk Deb Knight said. In other news, thc board: -Heard from Hickory Comers Fire Department firefighter Jeff Sage who said he will be retiring Oct. 1. He has been with the department for 27 years and is in the process of moving to lhe Galesburg-Augusta area. -Was updated by Prairieville Township Supervisor Jim Stonebumcr who said his township is creating a committee to explore the continuation of recycling. -Voted 4-1 to approve a bid for $3,900 from Whitman Engineering of Kalamazoo to begin the process of repairing the Hickory Comers Fire Department building. Trustee Teresa Schuileboer cast the dissenting vole. She said she didn’t want to spend the money given the current economic situation. -Advised Supervisor Wesley Kahler to con- Engineer Steve Bishop addresses roe township board of trustees over the proposed $1.4 million loan to construct a water tower. tact local cement business about installing sidewalk from the Dollar General store in Delton south to where the sidewalk stops. -Heard comments from resident Karen Longman w*ho said she could not hear throughout the meeting. She told the board• that if they wanted a better-informed citizen­ ry, they should provide more information on what they arc discussing. Campbell requested1 board packets be placed at the back of thc( meeting hall before each meeting for public, use. Nearly 30 percent here still need to respond to census J-Ad News Services As of Wednesday afternoon. 712 percent of Barry County souse hoi ds had responded to lhe 2020 U.S?Census.that’s a little above the state ax erage of 69 percent responding, but less than other counties in the lower half of the Lower Peninsula. Other counties seeing higher response rates include Ottawa, Kent. Eaton, Clinton, Lapeer. Livingston, Oakland, Macomb, Monroe. Midland and Bay. Livingston (80.6 percent) and Macomb (79.6 percent) are 14th and 20th, respective­ ly, among responding counties in the coun­ try. ............................. • Michigan ranks fifth in the nation for " responses, tied with Iowa, and is only slight­ ly behind Minnesota, Wisconsin, Washington and Nebraska. Tlte census, which is mandated by the U.S Constitution, provides critical data used by lawmakers, business owners, educators and others to provide daily services, prod­ ucts and support for local communities. Each year, according to lhe U5. Census Bureau, billions of dollars in federal funding go to hospitals, fire departments, schools, roads and other resources, based on census data. * Census results also determine the number of seats each state has in the U.S. House of Representatives and are used to draw con­ gressional state legislative districts. Forms were mailed out earlier this year and may still be used. Responses also can be made online. Additional information can be found at 2020census.gov. Middle school parents hear ©pfons dtoring vartuaB meeting Luke Fronchcck Staff Writer The only obstacle to an Aug. 24 opening for Hastings Area Schools would be an exec­ utive order from the governor, Hastings Superintendent Dan Remenap told parents during an Aug. 5 town hall meeting. “Our kids need normalcy,” Remenap said. 'Die virtual meeting for families of middle school students followed a meeting for ele­ mentary school families on Aug. 4 and pre­ ceded the high school meeting that took place last Thursday. Attendees asfced to submit questions in a message box feature of the Zoom call. The questions were then reviewed and answered by Rcmenap or middle school Principal Beth Stevens. .... .„ Parents are beinR aiked to pick either virtu­ al or online learning options for their children so the correa staffing decisions can be made. Remenap said b Middle school students wi" n0* ** con.fl,,ed 10 « single clasSroon) or group of students. Instead, they will lransition from class to class ik«t'T^ groi,ps ®f ,heir peeR’as they had done in q,. past. Consecration wZs given to u plan ccn,ercd around studenls ......L together in several W "lr°ughoin the day ><> I'"1'1 'he amount dems"^ 'Mh s'o*"* baS W" ’ °'her BUI’ Re’*»a0 said. U>a' stm'cgy would create a logisli £ and limit edueatronal option, « students have different interests anq . (re(ent classes. “Wc don't w * d ' mine to school feel­ ing like they^".1 kld’rison or hospital." the superintend!* “ Pr,S° The school Mld•. added a third lunch Period to c a'so ' lancing between students in.I, c social m C“"stder4l' h,nchr!M’0L.n given to allow­ ing students to a so ,W ;r b ickpacU to class. Hie shift i, Jirry'1hv|„ help I'""' s,udenl gathennys 'bc'lween classes. Remenap locked Students also may be expected to help clean classrooms, he added. “There’s not one person, group, or entity that’s solely responsible for the cleanliness of our rooms,” Remenap said. “It’s a team effort.” District officials arc developing a plan to clean classrooms, he said. The plan may include students being responsible for clean­ ing portions of lheir learning areas. “I think that middle school kids arc mature enough to lake on some responsibility and clean up their station after they’re done,” Remenap said. Parents may send hand sanitizer containers with lheir children to use during the day. Face masks arc required for all middle school students, Remenap said, and face shields arc not an acceptable form of face covering unless a doctor’s note is provided saying the student is unable to wear a mask. However, a neck gaiter or scarf may be used. Parents worried about face coverings or medical conditions that limit a student’s abil­ ity lo wear a face mask should consider an online learning option, Rcmenap said. “I am planning on our kids and staff being here Aug. 24,” he said. However, there will be no orientation for sixth-grade students entering their first mid­ dle school year. Stevens said. The plan is to have students go straight to lheir advisory classrooms and be on a teacher-guided lour within five minutes of the opening bell. Stevens said she and her staff will be ada­ mant about making sure students are wearing masks and following social-distancing proto­ col. “Close contact is within 6 feel of someone for 15 minutes or more,” Remenap said. In the event a student or staff member tests positive for COVID-19, Remenap said the situation will be handled on a case-by-case basis. “If someone tests positive in the middle school, that docs not necessarily mean we’re shutting dow n the middle school,” be .said. But some teachers or other students may, have to be quarantined, depending on lhe sit­ uation. “You will be notified if your child was in contact with someone who tested positive,” Rcmenap said. “If your child is sick, they should not be going to school.” If learning is moved exclusively to a virtual format, studenls transferring from the in-per-* son to virtual format will be on lhe same learning system as students who picked online learning. Some parents may not be comfortable with sending lheir kids to school. “1 get it, and I support it,” Remenap said. Last year, lhe district had a total of 578 middle school students. As of Aug. 5, more than 4(X) parents of middle school students had expressed an interest in virtual learning for their children. Those families have, received email on how to schedule classes, Stevens said. Hie deadline to sign up for vir-, tual learning is Aug. 18. Even with the sign-up information,' Remenap said there’s no way district officials will know student count numbers until classes, begin Aug. 24. • A hybrid learning option is available to students who want to participate in both virtu-1 al learning and an elective, such as band or choir. Remenap said those students may attend online for lhe majority of the day and go lo school for just the elective class. It a student is not comfortable with attend­ ing elective classes in person, Remenap saidthc^ may rejoin the classes next school year, should everything be closer to normal. One parent asked it students enrolled in virtual learning will receive the same help asstudents who arc attending school in person. * "Frankly, no,” Remenap said. “It’s not thatwe dislike those students. It’s just easier to work with kids who are here on a daily basis.”' Hie online courses are based on completion and not on a daily schedule. ‘ . ”1 hope you tnist that we have everyone’s, best interests in mind,” Remenap said. �Rplf MJP IT- B M approves plan for Sports Editor Th,- Thomapple Kellogg , vacation appMVed «s COVID.10 °1' Redness and Response P|an jn ., 7 n""'1 Motxfey evening, alter most of tho 7° e of its meeting Wcre° _ .>'v<> Lesentation of fee p|an bv ■ ,h a Blitchok. 5 Supenntendem The Ha'lingn Bmnor — Thursday. August 13.2020 — Pag-11 ° educate during pandemic ■ ***.,«. virtual School options for studw'^M^ JK dsns for icniotc learning, as needed nr.‘ i I ^rtr-J that about lO.s'pereenTon,; Lotion («dten eompa^ uilh la,, nll,ntxrs> had already chosen the vinua option to begin thc school year with [ fKVS Students basically eveX dL " h I throughout thc grade levels cd ; mistakes, but when we make them, we^vin correct them. This ts going to be difficult. But I iijvc numerous, numerous parents, whether u be from the survey several weeks ago, or ‘ .C . I. .I.iii.n * > I ■ . my child back ,prhe batldtttg. whether it is for the education wHKfcr it is for getting them out of the house, all of those things. I don’t see the logic to delaying tuo weeks or three weeks,” Blitchok slid in response to a question from board member Sarah Alden about why Thomapple Kellogg is not opening the school year with 100- percent remote learning or taking a ’slow build’ approach into the year like some other districts are. “If you’re going back in three weeks, what is the difference? We arc as prepared as we possibly can be. until we have done it and tried to do better each and every day.” Blitchok said. What I have tried to do is not confuse parents, lo slick to what our commitments were, stick to what we believe as a whole was best for our kids and that is getting back into the buildings.” Blilchok added that, for the most part, the district will just follow the roadmap laid out by the health department. Alden was focusing on lhe communication to reflect community comments that came before Blitchok laid out the plan. Those questions mostly inquired about specific details about how COVID-19 cases would be Thornapple Kellogg Schools Superintendent Robert B,itchoj'k/Ivening The Pr®par®dness and Response Plan to lhe TK School Board during its Zoom meeting online Monday even g. The board passed (he plan by a 7-0 vote. dealt with and how those cases would affect in-person learning. Another comment was regarding challenges of virtual learning in a district where access to high-speed internet is an issue. Should a COVID-19 outbreak begin, Blitchok said he has the ability to move thc district’s in-person students lo remote learning at any time, but the district will be leaning heavily on guidance from local health departments. Unlike in some districts. Thomapple Kellogg studenls may choose to enter the TKVS at any lime. “It is going to be very, very different this school year.” Blitchok said, “and we’re going to have to be very, very nimble and prepared to deal with individual situations. The question, and I’ll go to it right away, ’Do we have thresholds for closing down classrooms. They will. 1 am sure, bu every single case. Iml whh the conuenraang mid all of .hose things they will teU us. »<• suggest for us what we need to do. Thomapple KellogS*“kLn8 wi"> b“"' the Barry-Eaton and d* KJnl 90unlX hcallh departments, while al® kecPln8 of thines in the Kalamazoo areaWith the region of the state ln Phase 4 of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s ’ Plan to Reopen,’’ TK will offer lhe option of the TKVS or 100 percent in-person learning plans as school begins. . TTie TKVS option is available whether the slate moves into Phase 5, or takes steps back into phases 1-3. TKVS Students will work with new TK education partner Edgenuity Courseware on a 100 percent online educational experience, and Blitchok was adamant that TKVS students are Trojans in the same way learners who chose lhe in-person option are. 1 he 100 percent in-person option is open to sttidents with the state in phases 4-5, and in-person learners will move to 100 percent remote learning at home should the state move back into phases 1-3. That remote learning will be more elaborate and include more teacher interaction than the review-type learning experience from lhe end of the 2019-20 school year. Students will continue with their schedule of instruction with their TK teachers and complete lheir work at home. The school system has its entire Return to Leam plan online nt tkschools org, as well as “A Day in thc Life” information for each group at the elementary, middle school and high school levels. Much of this information has been shared with parents throughout thc process, although some public commentators mentioned they would have liked lo have seen thc results for the school re-entry survey. For in-person learners, there arc plans for hygiene education, desks and tables will be spaced as far apart as feasible, visitors will not be allowed in classrooms, floor tape and other markers will be used to encourage distancing in hallways, and passing times for students will be staggered, lunches will be delivered to and eaten in classrooms, classes will not mix outdoors at recess, band students will wear facial coverings with slits in the mouth and choir students will sing wilh facial coverings, all students will be required to wear masks on the school bus, sixth-12th grade studenls will be required to wear masks in school at all times, and pre-kindergarten-fifth grade students will be required to wear masks outside of the classroom. Staff will conduct daily self-examination screenings to prevent symptomatic individuals from entering buildings. . Student screening will be the responsibility of families each day. Prior to the start of the school year, student families will be required to complete a COVID-19 School Heallh Screening Agreement. Families will be asked to check their child’s temperature al home every morning before school and to complete a daily wellness check through a self­ screening website. Prior to Blitchok’s presentation. Assistant Superintendent Craig McCarthy reviewed the district’s COVID-19 Employee Preparedness and Response Plan. That plan was approved as presented in a 7-0 vote as well. The board also approved bids for construction projects at McFall Elementary ($3,756,847) and at Lee and Page Elementary buildings ($4,909,728). Those bids came in lower than expected, attributed at least partially to construction slowdowns, creating a competitive bidding market. The board also approved a bid of $28370 for improvements to the two-way radio system at McFall and the Learning Center, which will be paid for from the general fund. Steele competes in USA water ski nationals Brett Bremer Sports Editor Injuries to her head and shoulder had water skier Alexandra Steele spending more time practicing her toe tricks this spring. Turns oul the extra time focusing on toe tricks turned this into one of her most success­ ful summers yet on the water. Steele, a 2016 Delton Kellogg High School graduate who skis collegiately for the University of Cincinnati, placed ninth in the W1 Trick competition and 13th in the W1 Slalom competition at the USA Water Ski and Wake Sports 78th Goode Water Ski National Championships Aug. 4-8 at Tri-Lakes in Zachary. La. Site said her slalom score of 75.00 which earned her 608.90 points in the competition is right around her average in the event in which competitors maneuver their way around six buoys time and again with increasing speeds and a shortening rope throughout the compe­ tition. Her score of 1070 that earned her 530.10 points in the trick competition, in which competitors get two 20 second passes to perform a variety of hand and toe tricks, is a new career best. “With toe tricks you just put your foot in the rope and you turn with your toes, so there are no hands. I learned all those this year, so I was really excited to get them all in and get my toe wake tricks. I was really happy with that.” Steele said of her performance at nation­ als. Steele grew up mostly skiing on Long Lake in Delton. Her grandfather Jack Steele got her up on skis when she was five years old. “I grew up water skiing with my dad just on lhe lake.” Steele said. “When I got to college I found lhe water ski club. I started competing coming up on three years ago now. When 1 started competing I kind of basically had just barely learned to ‘walk’ essentially. When I started competing I had to completely leam how to ‘run’ from there. I really learned a lot in the last couple of years for sure.” Steele’s collegiate journey began at Western Michigan University before she transferred to Cincinnati, in part to be in a more competitive water ski environment. She earned a spot in the Bearcats’ Shortline Excellence Club with a 2 @ 22' performance last fall in the slalom. and has dreams of chasing lhe school record in that event and in lhe tridc formal after her improvements this sumner. Those ’would have to come in collegia^ competitions though, events that may or may not happen this fall. A spring break trip to Swerve Watersports Center in Hillsboro, Tenn., lumed into much of a spring there when the coronavirus pan­ demic brought an end to in-person learning. Steele had a “work from home’’ opportunity as well and decided to just slay in Tennessee and work on improving on the water. Early in the summer she suffered a concus­ sion while practicing her slalom skills. That put her out of action for two weeks and then she suffered a shoulder injury.That is when she started focusing on her toe trices “In slalom I am only ever really skiing at 32 or 34 miles an hour, but when you factor in cutting across lhe wakes I am moving up to like 70 miles per hour at any given moment.-. Steele sa>d It is a lot h.gher impact on body to slalom ski. It hurts a lot more <en you hit the water going that fast. A . freak things can happen. Hastings High School parents get answers to back-to-school questions Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Hastings High School students will be back in class Aug. 24 in one of two ways, Superintendent Dan Remenap said during a virtual meeting with parents last Thursday. “We’ll do the best we can," Remenap said. “We’re going to keep your kids safe. Your kids arc coming to school to adults who care about litem." . The town hall intended for high school parents was the last of three virtual meetings organized by district administrators to answer parents’ questions. While Remenap explained portions of the district’s back-to-school plan, high school “pal Teresa Heide and Assistant Superintendent Matt Goebel answered questiXfe the message box section of thc Zoom "brents must choose between either an i . in neraon learning option by Friday, online or r> i xrt'Xrst——- the mouth and Parents arc d w provide masks for ding them lo school, lheir chddren belor •_ Remenap su'd" what is comfortable viduals in different ^unbearable for another, lor one person may .- he added. ,„lir..pc those that are not ”1 v.ould also '"^ks due to medical able to wear the c“ 1 h (wouldcovertheir rea.^stowearasfee!dwou(d s|.n ab|c eyes and mouth. |(Js arc more open. .^ei‘^s offers support for the stu’Heide said. 1 dent and comfort for others who sit near them.” Students who provide a doctor’s note say­ ing they are medically inhibited from wearing a mask will be permitted to wear a face shield*. Remenap said. Students who cannot wear either a mask or face shield are strongly encouraged to select the online learning option. Masks have to follow the school’s dress code policy; lhe face covering cannot include inappropriate text or images. Remenap said. Masks may have unique designs, but they must be appropriate, Heide added. Bandanas and neck gaiter masks are both acceptable. If a teacher asks a student to put a mask back on, it’s lhc same as any other directive an adult at the school may give a .student Remenap said. If a student chooses not to follow the directive, he or she is choosing not to attend Hastings High School. •‘We don’t want lo send kids home, and we don’t want to get in arguments ” Remenap said. Students also should explore options such as walking, biking, or finding a nde to school in favor of getting on lhe bus, Remenap said If more studenls can find alternative routes to school, the buses will have more room for social distancing to keep student riders sepa­ rated. “‘No-risk’ doesn’t exist in the world,” the superintendent said. “But school opening is vital.” School officials do intend to take a more relaxed approach to lheir attendance policy in the upcoming school year. If a student is sick he or she needs to slay home. Students who get sick al school are required to go home Remenap told parents. “When in (U... . them home.” ' ceP Goebel said that students needing tn . antine will be allowed a flexible sched meet their educational needs whi|e o e lo away from school. are The virtual learning option offered (O ♦ dents will contain Advanced PlacemCnt ‘ U es. Goebel said. The classes may j"’ through Edgenuity, Michigan Virtual n^1 Hastings High School teacher. 0n]inc 1X? ing also will include electives, suCh physical education or choir. Online scheduling will begin soon said. Counselors will be sending infOrnr..- J* to families about how scheduling wj|| “We will need to virtually schcdU|e student,” Heide said. “And we need to e the student’s high school audit t0 dctern.-‘ which classes arc needed for £ra^uationC Studenls enrolled in virtual lea^j have a weekly Google Meet or Zooni Jn . With a teacher from the high school. ‘"8 “Academics arc one thing. ul rc®tttionshins with their teachers are so important. UJ.. Heide said. Families are being aS^e either virtual or in-person lea one semester. The deadline «> T^nii to b mr at iea . t, A“‘ 14. Chromebooks and b* " . 1O1’1 infermation will be distributed 7’^8. 18. l he decision deadline *S(riv< olfivials can make lhc correc1s Cci5»ons, Goebel said. . _ vit.d . “I can’t rcjnrat enough h « is ii1JU wc stay uagAher as a Remenapsaid.“Wewill** do everything we cun io students safe.” our « £w,l> ‘Uf and ' J ■ ------ smiles With her slalom ski at the 2020 Goode Water Ski Alexandra Steele '» a okend. Steele, a Delton Kellogg graduate who sk,s National ChamP'0^P ' ' Cincinnatii competed in the USA Water Ski and Wake colle9iale'tyOna! championsliip for the first time this summer in both the slalom and tnck SsaUheWI.WI level. ..i on|y trick ski at like 165 miles pe r hour • • \ lot less impact on your body. 1 r " da lot of toe tricks, because whenever lcan,^.‘(J fecks somebody has your ski on a yT nd as soon as you start to fall they C‘ e the whole rope from the lx,at so you release th . 11)en. arc a lol ol really ":ffX in S iricks and 1 didn’t have to ''‘nr^n^cune has been steep since uetting in'1’ <-on'Pe'',Ive "u,cr sk""!' vvvefr-rn Michigan. , , . yreW up skiing on two skis and then I -anied how to slalom ski. which is just being 1 ki I had never seen a slalom course to college a couple years ago? Steele said. "I earning how to ski the course >> vity. 'CO fornl JUS‘recrva,ion11 k ing. I had never even seen a trick ski until college. In the past couple years I have gone to a lot of ski schools. My boyfriend is a real­ ly good water skier so 1 have skied with him a lot and learned a lot from him. A lot of hours on thr water ” That time on lhe water included skiing with the Cincinnati team at lhe 2019 NCWSA National Championship in Rio Linda, Calif., where the Bearcats placed eighth in lhe Division II competition. Skkele plans lo graduate from lhe University of Cincinnati in December with a degree in political science and is then looking forward to starting law school, likely at Cincinnati. �Pape 12 - Thursday. Ai/yu$t 13, 2020 — The Hastinpj; Banner Football practice begins, programs await competition date Lakewood varsity football players work on drills for linemen on the practice field at the high school Tuesday, the second day of practice for the Viking program. High school football programs across the state are awaiting the MHSAA’s announcement of when/ it they may begin competition for the 2020 season. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Sports Editor ’Hie kick-off is there on lhe schedules. Thc Hastings varsity football leam is slated lo make the trip north on M-37 to Middleville lo take on the Thomapple Kellogg Trojans Aug. 27. The Delton Kellogg football team is set to make the trip to Kalamazoo to take on Loy Norrix Aug. 27, before hosting its first game on lhc new artificial turf at the high school in Delton Sept 3. Maple Valley is scheduled to host an 8-player varsity football game against Athens Aug. 28. The Michigan High School Athletic Association has yet to announce when it will allow football games to begin though. If there are games, it is still up in the air what specta­ tors will be allowed to attend as the MUSA A is aw aiting information from the stale govern­ ment in that regard. New lighting systems rise over Unity Field at Lakewood High School, ready to illuminate the first Thursday night of lhe 2020 varsity football season in Michigan as the Vikings have plans lo host the Pennfield Panthers Aug. 27. , The sun was still shining brightly around 7 p.m. Tuesday (Aug. II) soon after thc open­ ing of the second day of foollvall practice. Members of the Lakewood varsity were split up, with linemen working on blocking drills on the practice field and backs and “skill” position players doing agility drills in the north end zone at Unity Field. Players wore helmets. Coaches wore masks. None of them know for certain if these first few practices during the dog days of August w ill actually pay off on a football field this fall. “It is going good, considering what we're dealing with. I’d like a normal year for a change.” Lakewood varsity football coach Mark Markwarl said during a break between JV and varsity sessions Tuesday. The I akewood program is keeping the two levels separate should one level be forced to quaran­ / tine that it won’t affect the other. “I started three days before tlie season start­ ed my first year, then we had EEE last year, and now we have this (COVID -19). A nice normal season would be nice for a change where we can work with the kids all yefcr and do all that stuff. Winter was going great.” Markwart said the Viking program has about 22 varsity football players and 27 stu­ dent-athletes al the varsity level this fall. Those numbers are a bit down from last year, but Markw art said that 2019 roster was boost­ ed by nine or* ten guys out for the team who hadn’t played in previous seasons. With some limited contact through lhe offseason, those type of athletes were harder to come by. “Our summer workouts, when we would work oul, were really good. They worked good and hardn • Thc Lakewood head coach spoke as varsity players arrived and met up with athletic.train­ er Bradley Nash have their forehead tem­ peratures recorded and to rattle off the word Lakewood senior Garrett Stank has his temperature taken by athletic trainer Bradley Nash befnr the start of varsity football practice at Lakewood High School Tuesday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) e ne £ookwho's ridittff Great News Parents of Hastings Schools Students! Barry County Transit will be available tor Student Transportation to Hastings Schools with in the city limits again this fall! Our fare is still just $1.00 per ride. Please be aware that we are following the school’s protocol requiring students. to wear masks while onboard. “We love « OUR STUDENTS Later, we will be able lo defer to parental discretion. Also, in most cases, Transit bus capacities may not allow social distancing for your student. Barry County Transit respects the choices you make as parents so please be aware ol this up front. For scheduling and questions please call our office at 269-948-8098. See you soon!! your James Penny holds the ball aloft as Ayden Wilkes looks to swat it away during defensive back drills at Maple Valley High School’s first football practice of the 2020 season on the high school practice field in Nashville Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) “I started three days before the season started my first year, then we had EEE last year, and now we have this (COVID -19). A nice normal season would be nice for a change where we can work with the kids all year and do all that stuff. Winter was going great." Mark Markwart, Lakewood varsity football coach | - --------------- .------ ------------------------------------ - ----—---- - v. “no” over and over again as they were asked about any COVID-19 symptoms they may have experienced recently. Nash said it is a process the coaches will perform much of the time, especially once lhe full slate of sports are running across the school grounds. Out on lhe practice field, assistant coach Greg Forman wandered from sideline to sideline spraying disinfectant on the blocking pads and other equipment. Maple Valley hosted its first football prac­ tice of lhe season Tuesday, after canceling Monday due to lhe threat of severe weather not wanting to risk gathering a crowd indoors lo avoid storms outside. The Lions went through drills without helmets late in the ses­ sion, with masked coaches leading lhe way and many of the football players wearing masks or gaiters pulled up over their faces. “Athletes while participating on lhe field7 court are not required to wear face coverings but are permitted lo do so,” according to lhe MHSAA’s Return to Play Guidelines. “Bunch personnel are required to wear face coverings at all times - this includes athletes not cur­ rently in the game, coaches, managers, train­ ers. statisticians, media and anyone else on the sideline. It is recommended that game officials wear face coverings, but it is not required when carrying oul their duties. Contest management, school administrators, media and all staff are required to wear face coverings. Spectators are also required to wear face coverings.” Football players aren’t allowed to wear shoulder pads or lower body pads with foot­ ball pants until next week. Masks on coaches and testing and social distancing when possible aren’t thc only dif­ ferences on lhe Laikew’ood practice field. The drills are changing. Markwart said contact is still discouraged. “Every’ day xve would have done form tack­ ling, but that form tackling has you w rapping your arms up and and putting your head on / somebody and doing those types of things. At ’ this point, we’re not going to go to that poinr because that is kind of the separation they want us to do at this point,” Markwarl said. He expects more contact next week. ... There is still a chance the Michigan Hjfh School Athletic Association deems ‘Tffgh risk” sports like football, volleyball and soc­ cer loo risky for high school athletes to partic­ ipate in this season in lhe way many colleges of all levels have. The Mid-Amcricaa Conference, home to Central Michigan* Eastern Michigan and Western Michigan uni­ versities, postponed the fall sports season on Saturday. l he Big Ten Conference, home of Michigan and Michigan Slate universities, officially announced it is postponing sports on Tuesday. That follows lhe cancel­ ation of NCA/\ Division 11 and III National Championship competitions, and lhe National Junior College Athletic Association’s decision last month to postpone both fall and winter sports. The MHSAA has repeatedly said that deci­ sions at lhe collegiate level can help inform, but won’t determine the fate of the fall high school sports se<ison in the state. l he MHSAA allowed high school football programs across thc slate to begin practice Monday , and all other tall sports (boys’ soc­ cer. cross country, boys’ tennis, girls’ golf* volleyball, girls’ sw imming and diving) in th* lower peninsula were set to open practice yesterday (Aug. 12). “Low risk” sports such as cross country, tennis and golf are able to begin competitions next week. Volleyball and swimming and diving teams are still prohibit ed from practicing inside. A decision on when football, boys’ soccer and volleyball teams may begin competitions is due from the MHSAA by Aug. 20. Volleyball and boys' soccer start dates have alrvadv been pushed back Aug. 21. ' ■ Family Science Night adapting to changes Although lhe annual Family Science Night provided • • by * ‘ Pierce Cedar Creek Institute will be in a video format, organizers expect the activity to Ik fun for local families. “From Fairy Houses to Bug Bungalows and load Abodes Challenge” will be lhe theme. Families will be encouraged to build a house for fairy friends or bug and burrow buddies m this science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or SIEM, challenge. Participants will be guided through thc activity -- all they w ill need is creativity materials from Mother Nature, and nutybe a sprinkle of fairy dust Materials include itemfound in nature (such as sticks, flower leaves, grasses, nuts, locks. bark, clay pots.o whatever else they can find) and a place to build the structures those wanting io build a more permanen structure will need glue or string. Thc v idea is as ailablc on Facebook or a youtubu.com/channvL VC 1 FI E yRl mED2Hud jwmXjw. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-08-20.pdf c418d5b6bf5fe038c156bc08b5052310 PDF Text Text Hastings Public Library 227 E State Strppt ive 1®arning to chancc? wlhr1 ",L 1 J c-v:a F >-r ? lPN ' See Story footed to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 1070490102590500057149058195427 ................. .. L Hasbngs Pub’c Library ANNER5 ^7 E State St Hasfngs Ml 45O'-8-V3--4 ^^3)^^22^020 VOLUME 167. No. 33 ' ...................... ■ ------------------- ■ PRICE $1.00- --------------------------- Nearly 60 tested for COVID-19 Tuesday Luke Fronchcck I County board to I hold hearing on TK annexation request The Bany County Board of I Commissioners will hold a public hearing I at 9 a.m. Tuesday on a request by I Thomappie Kellogg School' to have 80 | acres of land owned by the school district I at 3316 Bender Road be annexed from Thomappie Township into the Village of Middleville. The site is planned for construction of the district's new learning center, which was made possible by voter approval of a S42.8 million bond issue in November 2019. An annexation resolution has been | approved by both the township board and ■ the village council. It now needs approval from the county board for the annexation to be complete. The hearing will take place al the Leason Sharpe Hall inside the Barry Community Enrichment Center. 231 S. Broadway, Hastings. Written comments on the annexation may be submitted to the boardat the county clerk’s office. 220 W. State St., Hastings. up until the lime of the hearing. City council to meet virtually again The Hastings City Council will meet at 7 pan. Monday. Aug. 24. The council will meet virtually in accordance with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's executive order limiting in-person gather­ ings to 10 people or few er. City Manager Jerry Czarnecki said. The council is expected to consider projects for addition to the city budget for this fiscal year, as well as address a cem­ etery ordinance. Czarnecki said. Tlie public may join the meeting by going to the city website, hastingsmi.org. then to the City Council page, and click­ ing on the blue ‘‘go to meeting” button at the top of the page. Calley hosting outdoor office hours State Rep. Julie Calley welcomes resi­ dents to attend outdoor office hours in two communities Monday. Aug. 31. She will meet with constituents at the following locations at the Scheid Park Pavilion,455 Main St. in Saranac from 10 Spectrum Health Pennock Chief Nursing Officer Steve Marzolf is tested for COVID19 by Delton Kellogg school nurse Rhonda Lundquist. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) Staff Writer Drive-through testing Tuesday next to Spectrum Health Pennock Urgent Care in Hastings went smoothly. Barry Eaton District Health Department Community Health Promotion Specialist Sarah Suma said. A lot ot people came early - some showed up two hours before the testing began — but traffic steadied out as the event went on, Suma said. In all, 58 people were tested out of 200 available tests over a span of four hours from 3 to 7 p.m. “I spent a couple of hours down there, and I thought it went very’ well,” Spectrum Health Pennock Chief Nursing Officer Steve Marzolf said. “It was a very nice partnership between See TESTING, page 12 System earns ‘new respect’ from murder trial juror Taylor Owens Staff Writer When defense attorney Shane McNeill dis­ closed during opening arguments to a Barry County jury that his client Jon Burnett shot and killed two men. some jurors were sur­ prised. “I was very confused after opening argu­ ments,” a juror said. The juror spoke to The Hastings Banner this week on condition of anonymity. ‘‘Why are we here?” was the thought recalled. “I have a feeling that we were all kind of thinking the same thing.” McNeill’s argument was that Burnett believed he was acting in self-defense. By the end of the seven-day trial, the jury was not convinced of that. “Nobody had a feeling that it was in self-defense,” the juror said. Burnett. 64. was found guilty of all 35 counts he faced in connection with a series of assaults on June 21, 2019, outside his resi­ dence at the intersection of Lindsey and Lewis roads in Orangeville Township. Included in those charges were two counts of first-degree murder, the shooting death of Burnett's neighbor, 73-year-old Gary Peake, and a tree service worker who just happened to be working in the area that day, 21-year-old Bry ce DeGood of Comstock Park. 'fhe jury deliberated for around seven hours on Aug. 12, before returning with a verdict Defendant Jon Burnett testifies Aug. 11 during his Barry County trial. The jury found him guilty of all 35 charges, includ­ ing two for first-degree murder,’ in the shooting rampage that took place June 21. 2019, near his Orangeville Township residence. (Photo by Scott Harmsen) just before 6 p.m. The first charges the jury addressed were the ones they believed were most straightfor­ ward. “As a group, we had decided to tackle a couple of them that seemed fairly simple from the beginning.” the juror said. Those were rhe two charges of assaulting a police officer. Barry County Sheriff’s Deputy Brian Hansford testified that Burnett had shoved him while he was checking Burnett’s pockets. Deputy Kevin Erb said Burnett kneed him in the groin, after he had put himself in between Burnett and Hansford. Both incidents happened in front of other officers, and the audio was recorded on Erb’s personal and dashboard microphones. Jurors then discussed the first-degree mur­ ders of Peake and DeGood, but they were divided between first-degree premeditated or second-degree non-premeditated murder in Peake’s case, 'They decided to move on to the other charges, and come back around to the murder charge. The group went in chronological order through the various assault and felony firearm charges, which involved the numerous pass­ ing motorists Burnett had threatened with a gun that day. Many people saw DeGood’s body lying by the side of the road, and tried to help, but were forced to leave when Burnett threatened to shoot them. •‘It took time, just because there were so many, and we wanted to make sure we were going to make the right decision,” the juroj said. “There were just so many witnesses, arid there were consistencies between those wit­ nesses.” X There were so many - and their stories were so similar - “they started blending together.” "Fortunately, many of the jurori took very meticulous notes,” the Juror said. * Sometimes, a witness seemed to misspeak or misremember a detail, but the jurors felt that was understandable, given the time that had passed since the day of the shootings. One witness the jury did not find credible was Lynne Burnett, who was married to Jon Burnett at the time of the shootings. She testi­ fied that Jon threatened her with a gun and physically attacked her, immediately before the shootings. But the jury' felt there were things that were left out of her account, and they did not place a lot of weight on some aspects of it, the juror said. They felt Lynne Burnett was trying to walk a fine line in her testimony to avoid incriminating her ex-husband too much, since she said she still loved him. They also noted that Lynne Burnett called a neighbor to wam her about Jon, but she did not call 911. Instead, she bought some Powerades from See JUROR, page 11 MSHDA house construction is underway Luke Froncheck to 11 aan. Then she will travel to Hastings to meet with citizens a! the Bob King Park Pavilion, 100 E. Woodlawn Ave. from 12:30 to 2 p.m. . A legislative update will be provided at 12:30 p.m., with an opportunity for indi­ vidual meetings following at 1:30 p.m. -Outside office hours have proven to be a successful alternative, Rep. Calley laid. “I deeply appreciate the interest and engagement from those who attend. No appointment is necessary. Out o consideration for other attendees, indiv idual meetings will be kept to 10 minutes each Anyone who would like additional lime or who is unable to attend the sched­ uled office hours may email JulieCalley^ housejni.gov or call her, 517-373-0842. Check out the all new www.hastingsbanner.com YOUR SITE FOR LOCAL NEWS community organizations.” He pointed out that local emergency ser­ vices staff and sheriff’s deputies were present at the event. Both the Hastings and Grand Rapids COVID-19 testing teams were present; Marzolf said. ‘‘I think it went great,” he added. • Each lest was free, no insurance was billed, Suma said. The event was operated on a first-come; first-served basis. Individuals age 5 and up were allowed to be tested. Spectrum Health Foundation, Barry County United Way, Barry County Emergency from left?Brnd leadershiP team gathering lorJ^9 ^SHDA modular house groundbreaking in Hastings Tuesday include (nnn kina Bar,l cAd Benderof Leading Construction. ^ngs" oX Tossava. Hastings Community Development sn.«r j”’ '* “‘*y Staff Writer The construction of more affordable housing in Hastings got underway Tuesday. The Michigan Slate Housing Development Aulhority awarded the Barry’ Community Foundation a $196,000 grant meant for the construction of one 1,680-square-foot modular home - repayable for up to five homes. The money allows the community foundation to partner with local businesses to construct three-bedroom, two-bathroom homes for middle-income families. "This mod project will provide a new, safe and beautiful home for families just starting out or even a new college graduate,” BCF President Bonnie Gettys said Wednesday. “Middle-income housing has been an issue.” Under the terms of the grant, the house has to follow slate guidelines, Gettys said. For example, MSHDA mandates lhe house have some sort of storage space. Homeownership also allows young people to build assets that can better prepare them for the future. Gettys said. “We arc extremely excited,” Barry County United Way Executive Director Lani Forbes said. “We arc jumping for joy and doing a happy dance.” The modular home under construction is at MX) E. North St., but during a groundbreaking ceremony Tuesday, Gettys said additional houses may be built in Nashville and Delton, See HOUSING, page 3 �—Thursday. August 20, 2020 — nity for VES A group of spectators watch from the Barry County Courthouse lawn as speakers talk about unity and abolishing rac' .. The five scheduled speakers during the Unity for Hastings event Sunday on the Barry County Courthouse lawn are (clockwise, from center left) Daegan Mix, 25; Brad Smith, 25; Whitney Pennington, 25; Miguel Arjona-Rodriguez, 24; and Collette Purucker, 35. All are Hastings residents. Luke Froncheck Hastings is a great community,” Arjona Rodriguez said before the event began Staff Writer Positive and negative anticipation for the “Hastings is growing and, as it grows, it will Unity for Hastings event Sunday continued to see more people of color. We’re all one build right up until co-organizer Brad Smith human race. We need to support each other.” A crowd of about 150 gathered on and began to speak to those gathered in front of around the courthouse lawn from noon to the Barry County Courthouse. As organizers set up tables and sound about 1:30 p.m. The event was expected to equipment, concerned residents look to social last until 3 p.m.. but ended early due to social media. They warned that groups like Antifa distancing concerns after moi e, people began and Black Lives Matter might come to to arrive. About 75 people actively participated in the Hastings and spark riots. In the end, the event was just as organizers event. Most had masks, and several wore Black Lives Matter shirts and held posters, said it would be: peaceful. . “We’re here to show togetherness and actively cheering and applauding as speakers love,” Daegan Mix, 26 of Hastings, said from addressed the crowd. “We’re talking about Black Lives Matter, the courthouse steps. He addressed the crowd with a microphone and called for unity in his because black lives do matter," Smith told the crowd. “We’re not here stating that they hometown. “Black lives need to be heard; our voices matter more than white lives. Of course, all need to be heard,” Mix said. “Please, just lives matter. But when you have a specific open your ears and open your minds. Black minority being targeted, then you can see they Uses Matter means peace, love and equality.” are disenfranchised. “We need to show' that Hastings is OK with • Smith. 25, of Hastings, and Miguel ArjonaRodriguez, 24 of Hastings, co-organized the being an inclusive community." Around 50 others watched from afar, taking gathering. “We’re here together and showing that in the event without partaking in it themselves. Whitney Pennington, 25. of Hastings, speaks to the crowd of about 150 during the Unity for Hastings event Sunday. A man at the back of the crowd on the courthouse lawn brought an American flag. Some wore masks. Several people watched from parked cars. A number wandered, seeming to eximine the event and its participants. “I’m here to listen.” John Rough, 56 of Hastings saii-Jojink listening is important; we don’t havetnoyg^ of that." Rough, a six.year veteran of the United States Army, the eVent from a few parked cars cast of the courthouse. He said he did not have any jssue with the Unity for Hastings event. “If you wanl t0 have growth in the community, then you need to have all the V°R.n i’ea^T community,” he “id. But he did hj, issue with anyone who came to both h(_ evenl and exercise their Second Arn^ ( right by strapping guns to their belu ‘•If you arc S1 and you’re agamst people you’ve lost the whole premise y. tu^second Amendment. RoSsair^-he <*' Multiple people . „ .trended the Unity for Hastings eventVj1 L but not ail of them said they w t’o lhe gathering. Members of 3®PP0~ nljlitia groups stationed the fountain northeast of the 2*7 11 rhey declined to share their name7*‘l’ouse. « of the groups with which they • ,he i' But they said •hey were thereV^f^^Jf-’^. Hastings City Police Chief Jeff Pratt (right) stands next to a protester who yelled at one of the speakers. Water's Edge Financial LLC Jeffrey A. Keessen, AIF1i (269) 948-9969 525 W. Apple St. Hastings, MI 49058 www.watcrscdgcfinancial.com Taking care of what's important to you w that you can focus an what matters most to you .Sr-uttfK'utfcrrtl tltfoujih i PL f ui»nud Mcti'J’cr HNRAiMFC are hem tn^P theP£c” one militia member said, J^Pfhep^ Jo assemble peacefully and e,1 are 11 and Secund Amendment rii>ht^lse °ur Die 15 or * arv militia affiliates stayed said "in for most of the rally before J* fount ^oup o| trees on the soy moV,nfcLrthouse lawn. *‘What havt^ oflhc^th » if il turns violent or ch^ Ji issue/1 niCIIlbef said. We are absol^ a miht»J n । right to peacefully a^l^forc'^ \ord ,s peaceful.” a‘$e; [the] * ' another Prote, 3b<ud man chimed in. * can g° a 1 he men sau| ltIesl concerns was that the their l,,iTIike protests Nild turn Miguel Arjona-Rodriguez. 24 of Hastings, was one of the co-organizers of the Unity for Hastings event Sunday. About 15 members of various Michigan militia groups attend the Unity for Hastings event Sunday. They declined to give their names or the groups they are affiliated with, but said they were there to ensure the event remained peaceful. in Kalamazoo the day before. On Saturday, Proud Boys - a far-right neo­ fascist group - clashed with counter­ protesters, resulting in several arrests and viral online videos of the confrontation. “We don t want to see what happened in Kalamazoo.” a militia member said. “What happened to lhe Proud Boys - you may not agree with them - but they have every right to peacefully assemble. They were violently attacked by Antifa and BLM.” However, the members said they supported the Unity for Hastings event because it remained peaceful. But not everyone attending was supportive of the event. One man, Dan Downing of Hastings, earned a flag portraying President Donald Trump with an automatic weapon Downing weaved his way silently through lhe crowd of participants. He was met with a few negative comments as a flew' his flag on lhe courthouse lawn. Enough is enough.” Downing said. “They (police brutality protesters) broadcasted enough, they got their rights. They arc lhe ones out here keeping this country divided." “We just don t want the town burned dowm, Jack Sanborn of Hastings said from his scat near the fountain. “Look wherever they go ...” “We re here to |C( them know we want peace and we won’t stand for what’s going on in the other cities, ’ Tracy Sanborn of Hastings said. “We are pro-police," Downing added. “We want the laws to be fair for everyone." Arjona-Rodriguez said the event was held partly to clear the tension involved in opening up conversations about racism. He said he and other people of color had witnessed examples of intolerance that not a lot of other people may have noticed. He. recalled, during his time in Hastings High School, when someone bunted the letters “KKK” into the football field. “It was never acknowledged, and people just can ied about their day," Arjona-Rodriguez said. “No one is at fault here because the conversation never got brought up. But, as Hastings continues to grow, there are going to be more people of color coming in.” Every 10 or 15 minutes, a Hastings City Police cruiser w'ould pass by die courthouse. ” We have an officer al every comer,” Chief Jeff Pratt said before the rally. Pratt said he was concerned after seeing what had happened in Kalamazoo, but he had no issue with the Unity for Hastings organizers. Five people were slated to speak at the event. They all spoke messages of unity and bringing the community together to discuss topics like racism. “A majority of the people here ain’t racist,” Smith said, “but I’ve definitely heard some racists statements here many limes. It’s around and it is abundant." “We kind of just want to stop that - or at least limit it. Hastings has a bit of a reputation for it already. We want to shed a positive light on our community and make it more inclusive.” “This is about all of us coming together to be a more loving and productive community,” Whitney Pennington. 24 of Hastings told the crowd. “Every single day and every single action, or inaction, we take shapes the future of our community, country and our world." After the speeches concluded. Smith led the crowd in a two-minute moment of silence to remember those who have been negatively impacted by police violence in the°Uniied States. ,uea Smith then invited members of the crowa to come up and speak. u One man, wearing a hat that read '-Make lying wrong again." went to the mi. m u and said lhe group of young neon^T crowd gave him faith that rS h-« ' chance to grow more acceotinvni T " a Desiree Hoiley-SaneiX tk spoke to the crowd “I’m , 1->tlron also Michigan. a^7"sh,c^C*,°^ Hastings. w“s bom and raised in n t^1"8 ‘hal she Alabama for nine vein. Y?”1’ llvcd in >v’,rs an<l later lived in Continued next page �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 20. 2020 — Page 3 Marching band play® °n Kathy Maurer PcrhnrK । k >py Editor Monday niclu *^1 seemed unusual marching band High School Practically perfevi bv WaS lhc wcalhcr “ of the dnnm , by an> mea^re. The beats calling ;lv,,Cks.of a mc*ronome. adults chatter, repetition *7°n' intcnnilk’n! Mudcnl Preseason ncf stePs al1 ^lt the same as "hough tire “’7 °,her “cn ’nyhing bu,PX.T related'ttern “ beC" bccause °f COVID-19- Practiced * en?es' kmd students had only Sne fn °ne °f foUr W - winds, through h cnscmb,c and cole? guard camn 'n° pre-camp, camp and poslMondnv \C. bantJ has gathered for two s..f- evcnmg rehearsals now. following “T Pr?UK°l °ver the past several weeks. ubrj 1 C,ars ’n m>’ e>Cs’ when I heard lhe b?n^ ,P,a* last Monday,” co-band -i°r ^cnn’^cr Ewers wrote Friday in an to Parents. “These times arc so tough r everyone right now that it is nice to hear tc music come together and the passion in e,r playing, h’s nice to work on and play music and not think of the word ‘COVID-19' lor a minute!” Just hours after the Michigan High School Athletic Association announced Aug. 14 that the fall football season would be moved to the spring, Ewers and fellow band director Spencer White sent an email message to parents. “We are disappointed that there won’t be any football games this fall. We understand w hy this tough decision had to be made.” they Wrote. “While our performances at home varsity football games are a valuable portion oi our performance schedule, they are not our entire performance schedule. Some marching band competitions, including the one we host, have not officially canceled yet. and we are waiting for more guidance on this. We will still rehearse and perform this fall and have a purposeful and educational experience, even if it is a little different than what we have done in the past.” Like other school groups and programs, they have developed plans based on various scenarios amid ongoing uncertainty. Performance opportunities, along with possible competitions and the Michigan High This year’s halftime show, 'The Serengeti.” features music from “The Lion King" and Cirque du Soleil. The 145-member Hastings High School marching band is practicing for whatever the fall season may bring. School Band and Orchestra district festival, might include weekly evening performances with a 100-spec tat or limit, live-strcamed performances or bringing in professional videographers (o record the program. “Marching band is an important part of our curriculum, and we have been able to do it safely, socially distanced, masked, and sanitized/’ they wrote in lhe joint email. “It is safest, and preferred, for us to be outside as much as possible at this time, and marching band provides that. We will continue to work through our marching band curriculum through early October, and look for safe performance opportunities along the way.” Many questions remain unanswered, which is a challenge for White and Ewers, who do best when being able to plan ahead. And with 145 students in marching band, the questions keep coming. Answers, however, are elusive, especially in regard to what has been a given for decades: the band performing its halftime show midway through the Friday night home football games. “Right now. we are focusing on the fall and trying to make H as meaningful and educational for our students. White wrote in an email to the Banner Tuesday. “We arc working with our administration and our athletic department to provide performance opportunities for our school and community. As soon as we have that finalized, we will be sharing more information. As for the spring football season - anything is possible. A spring football season poses many questions, and we don’t have answers for that yet.” “We have some ideas for many ‘what if' type of scenarios, but at this point, it is all just speculation,” Ewers added. “I feel like we have had to say, ‘I don’t know’far more than Spencer or I - the huge planners that we are - feel comfortable with having to say. But at this time, we just don’t know what things will be like for us, or school, in the spring.” As teachers, they have a better idea of lhe impact the pandemic and its fallout have had on kids. “The students shared some heartfelt thoughts about what they have gone through during the past five months and what being together again, safely, has meant to them.” the directors wrote in Friday's email. “Our hearts definitely go out to our athletes that won’t get a football season this fall.” Ewers wrote in an email Tuesday. “We arc hopeful that they can play this spring. We have many of our students involved in the football program and know they are feeling disappointed at this time. We are fortunate that our activity is able to be socially distanced and follow all of the protocols required for the outdoor setting. We’re taking each day as it comes and are just thankful we can march and play at all.” For now. band class will be first hour and rehearsals will be Monday evenings, as they have been for many years. All band students, whether virtual, home-schooled or in school all day. will have the same opportunities and practice schedule - as long as school remains open. The halftime show, “The Serengeti." features music from “The Lion King” and Cirque du Soleil. Parents have long been an integral part of lhe band program. Along with moving and repairing equipment, providing water,helping with uniforms and other tasks, parents are Positive COVID-19 cases linked ‘Circle ©f to Camp Michawana top 5.0 Greg Chandler Staff Writer The number of campers who recently stayed at Camp Michawana in Hope Township who have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus now* stands at more than 50. local health officials said. Sarah Suma, a spokeswoman for the Barry-Eaton District Health Department, reported Wednesday that 51 people who stayed at the camp between July 24 and Aug. 6 have tested positive for the virus, while seven others are listed as probable cases. Ten Barry County residents are among those who have tested positive, Suma said. Suma would not disclose specifics about the cases, such as how many people have needed to be hospitalized as a result of the virus or how many are asymptomatic, citing privacy concerns. BEDHD has been tracking cases of COVID-19 since first reporting Aug. 7 that as many as 250 campers al Camp Michawana about 180 who had attended the children’s overnight camp and another 70 who had stayed al the family-style camp or were staff members there - may have been exposed to the virus. Tlie health department is continuing to follow up with people who may have been exposed, and Suma said it’s possible dial even two weeks after lhe camp closed in the wake of lhe virus, additional “secondary” cases could sprout up. “We need to stay vigilant and in contact with lhe people who stayed at the camp,” she said. BEDHD staff recommended the affected individuals self-quarantine at home for 14 days past the last date of lheir stay al the camp. Individuals should monitor themselves closely for symptoms of COVID-19, and seek testing immediately if; symptoms develop. Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, fatigue, muscle aches, congestion, and loss of laste and smell. The camp continues to remain closed, and there has been no announcement on the camp’s website or Facebook page as to when it might reopen. Camp management did not return a call from The Banner seeking an update on the camp's status. As of Tuesday, the local health department was reporting a total of 174 positive cases and another 25 probable cases in Barry County. Of lhe positive cases, only nine are considered active at this time and 163 people are considered recovered from the virus. Two deaths tied to the virus have been reported. State reporting first cases of EEE in horses State health and agriculture officials arc reporting the first cases of Eastern equine encephalitis in Michigan for this year. Wednesday, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development .suite vet­ erinarian Dr. Nora Wineland confirmed a case of EEE in a 12-year-old Montcalm County mare, the second animal to contract the virus in lhe state this year. EEE is a viral disease, transmitted by mos­ quitoes to both animals and people. It is one of the most dangerous mosquito-bonie diseas­ es in the U.S., and lhe virus is typically seen in late summer to early fall in Michigan. “Tliis second confirmed case ot EEE in a horse reminds Michiganders of the strong need to take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites, said Dr. Khaldun chief medical e*ecutlve iuld chie* dcrouVy director for health for the Michigan Srtinent of Health and Human Services. Kly takes one bite from a mosqu.to to m the virus, which can lead to severe neurologic illness, permanent disability, and SOnp|l-nem-rged as a significant health issue • West Michigan last fall, resulting in schools in i Llimi outdoor sporting and communireschedulinp aftemoon in an effort to ly events jqveof the 50 cases of EEE in rCt?UCk! in Michigan last year occurred in annuals u u as onc of jq human Barry ioMdhHS. cases, acco t ELF. jnc|u<je t|ie sudIn humans. chilE and body and joint den ortsy ' . /ection can develop into severe aches. 1 ?sUfting in headache, disoricnencephuid^’ St.jzurcs and paralysis, tation, IreI?’ : ’ damage, coma and death Permanent jn 5ornc easvs. also may s .s and other domestic aniTo protect n< r> mats (such as dogs, sheep, and goats), owners should: -Talk to a veterinarian about vaccinating horses against EEE. -Place livestock in a bam under fans (since mosquitoes are not strong flyers) during peak mosquito activity from dusk to dawn. -Use insect repellant.s approved for the spe­ cies. -Eliminate standing water on the property. Fill in puddles, repair eaves, and change lhe water in buckets and bowls at least once a day. Animal owners should contact a veterinari­ an if an animal shows signs of the illness: fever and stumbling, which can progress to being down and struggling to stand. To protect themselves and family members, individuals should -Apply insect repellents that contain the active ingredient DEET or other U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-approved products, to exposed skin or clothing and always follow the manufacturer’s directions for use. -Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors. Apply insect repellent to clothing to help prevent biles. -Maintain window- and door screening to help keep mosquitoes outside. -Empty water from mosquito breeding sites around the home, such as buckets, unused children's pools, old tires, or similar sites where mosquitoes may lay eggs. -Use nets and/or fans over outdoor eating areas. Overall, mosquito borne illnesses, like EEE. will continue to pose a risk to Ixjth ani mals and humans until late fall when night­ time temperatures consistently fall beJuw freezing. For more . information about inosqui- to-bome diseases, emergingdiseases. visit Michigan.gov/ now helping with sanitizing equipment and instruments. £ Since the late 1950s, Hastings has earned top ratings at the MSBOA festival, a tradition students, directors and parents hope to be able to continue this year. * “Our band parents are the best,” Ewers said. “Tlvey always step up when we have a need ... The band would not be as successful without their support.” J The directors said they are doing their best to create safe opportunities for students lio rehearse and perform together and to be together as a band and as a team. Monday night, a drone, operated by a parent, hovered above lhe ensemble as the teen musician^ moved through precisely planned steps. A video of lhe performance was posted on social media before day’s end. (The videos are shared weekly on Facebook and Instagram as ^HastingsBands.) *‘ Such videos, while beneficial to instruction, may prove to be rare treasures. “We feel like any day could be our last together in the event schools are shut down again,” the directors w'role in Tuesday’s email. “We want to make sure we have footage of what we have been able to work on and accomplish, even if it’s not exactly performance-ready yet. The parents, friends, family and community are able to get a glimpse into what we’re working on. too.” , Life’ featured in HHS Serengeti’ show; Although the performance calendar and duration of the marching season remain uncertain, lhe Hastings High School marching band program is doing its best to continue the educational opportunity. The 145-member band has begun rehearsing its 2020 halftime show, hoping for some type of performance, even if only in front of video cameras. The halftime show. “The Serengeti,” features music from “The Lion King” and Cirque du Soleil. “The Serengeti” is a fun, brightly colored and high-energy program representing animals seen on a safari in the Serengeti, Hastings co-director of bands Jen Ewers said. “The beginning of the show represents the sunrise, and a new day has begun.” she said. “We continue through the exciting sights of lhe desert until we arc brought into the jungle in our third movement. Colorful lion flags close out our show ‘in this great circle of life.’” ! The show starts out with a color guard feature using “The Circle of Life.” The first soloist is Alex Malmquisl-Hubert on flute with dance soloist Natalie Minch, followed by a woodwind feature through which the front ensemble is a supporting role, she said. The opener ends with a full band impact playing “This Land” from “The Lion King.” - . The second movement. “Kumbalawe,” from Cirque du Soleil, features clarinet soloist Abby Waller, followed by a brass feature. A clarinet duet by Harrison Smalley and Patrick Mallory close out the second production. ; The third movement, “Welcome to thfe Jungle,” features the drumline and front ensemble in a percussion feature with color guard support. Ewers said. -J The closing, “I Just Can’t .Wait to be King,” includes a back-and-forth duet between trumpet Hailey Graham and trombone Matyf Park. Mixed in is an alto saxophone solo front Jade Hunter. ’ 1 “The closer ends with bringing back ‘Circle of Life,’ ending the way we started, signifying that the cycle begins again,” Ewers said. . Drum majors are seniors Grace Green (third year, head drum major) and Madison McMasters (second year) and juniors Zach Franklin (second year) and Connor Lindsey (first year). Continued from previous page larger cities like Atlanta and Denver. “I’ve seen a lot of different ethnicities and changes throughout our country,” HolleySancimino said. “Sometimes in talking about things that divide us, they bring us together. A house divided of itself cannot stand, and I say, a nation divided of itself, ft cannot stand. We have got to come together. ’ Arjona-Rodriguez said his hope for the event was to opett up more conversations about racism in the community, “It’s so political now.and ft’s sad because it’s a real problemi thatpapprns jn the United States,” he saidHastings js a great community, and its just like everyone is racist here. It is a sntaH tew that have problems with what we are talking abuul Ifs |o us lo make this conununit) more Welcoming.” In the end, the socia media posts were wrong. Radical groups dm jnvadc the streets of Hastings. Aoth,^. burned u> the ground. . t The only not’^'1’ caction occurred after a motorcychs K j-d hL bike’s engine loo loudly while /” lhc rally. He didn’t make it a blix’k H 1 K e was motioned to pullover. Not everyone Sunday, but (he before everyone'' violence involved- Enjoy Our Most Popular Events Virtually: A Raffle and Fund a Future! Purchase Raffle Tickets for these Institute-Related Prizes By August 28 at 5 pm! • A Private Picnic and Hike . Camping and Survival Training in the Uttle Grand Canyon . A Fishing Trip on Brewster Lake • A Tour of Alice and KenJoness Library . Name a Baby Eastern Box Turtle k Raffle Drawing Monday, August 31 on Zoom at 3 pm. Tickets are $5 each or 3 for $ 10 Donate to Fund a Future! Mb m ntAcnnoort research and community programs at the Institute. Donate and be entered Into a drawing to win a private dinner at the Institute. Buy raffle tickets and donate online a< CedarCroeklnsU^.org^ call (269) 721 4190. t with each other ‘Uchls were discussed ‘’r separate ways - no Event is sponsored In part by the nnuelas A. and Margaret E. DeCamp Foundation. findU3 on [I Facebook ’ * t’ : Df.CA M I’ 11 >' '\i' M •( 701 w Cloverckilc Rd I Hastings Ml 49058 -J' �Page 4 — Thursday. August 20.2020 — The Hastings — — ——— Did you see? Can we leave learning up to chance. Tubin’ down the river on a lazy, sui^ jay Th.s group was floating at a gentle pace on the Thornapple River near Tyden Park in Hastings Saturday a . n Reader Jacqueline Muma ot Rutland Township, who took the photo, wrote: “The river, with its meandering f|Qy u9- 15. in the early afternoon, of life itself. It is a great equalizer. The river does not divide us into gender, young, old. yellow, black or white n *S a symbol for the Qcntlo flow the river, we are ail the same.” Political affiliation or religion. On Ht’Tr dedicating this space to a photograph taken hs traders or our staff members that represents Barry County /. send it to Xensroom Hastings Banner. 135! ,V. M-43 Highway. Hastings, Ml 49058: or email ncsvs^fadgraphics^^ '°a have a photo to share. please where and when the photo was taken, who took the photo, and other relevant or anecdotal information. Cu-'f include information such as Do you remember? | Arranging elegance on home tour Banner Sept. 19, 1974 To add elegance - Members of the Thornapple Garden Club are adding a dimension of elegance to the Friends of the Library Home Tour to be held Saturday, Sept. 28. by arranging attractive floral swags for each home on the tour. Making plans Thursday, Sept. 12, at the club's meeting at the parish house were (from left) Ellarie Spindler, Genevieve Hall. Flossie Richards. Margaret Lord and Mabel Ingram. Violet Robinson (not pictured) also helped with the project. (No addresses were given, however, the tour included the Allerding, Gribbin. Lewis Lang, Dr. Chafes Morrill and Jack Wood residences.) Have you met? For Ines Straube, education was the key that unlocked doors. The daughter of Braulio and Ruth Garcia, she was bom in Cali. Colombia, and moved to lhe United Slates when she was about 5. Slraube. 44, has lived in Hastings for the past 32 years. She attended Hastings High School where she first met Justin Slraube in her freshman year. He was a senior. They married and today have two daughters, both of whom have graduated from college. Their oldest daughter earned a bachelor’s degree from Ferris State University in information security and intelligence. Their youngest daughter is completing her master’s degree in educational foundations at Western Michigan University. In 1995. Straube started attending Kellogg Community College and earned an associate’s degree in arts, with a concentration in paralegal studies. After completing her associate’s degree, she worked in a couple of law firms in Grand Rapids before obtaining a position with the Barry County Family Court, as lhe court recorder for Judge Richard Shaw. “Even though I was working for the court. I believed I still needed to continue my education.” she said. “I knew' it was going to be tough, working a full-time job. being a full-time college student, with two young children, but I was committed to see this through. “It helped that I had a very supportive husband, parents, and the support and I encouragement of my immediate superv isors. Judge Shaw, Judge William Doherty, Robert Nida and Pam Jarvis. Il look me a while, but. in 2011, I finally obtained my muster’s degree in criminal justice from Michigan State University.” “When I reflect on my journey, I can see how education opened doors for new opportunities,” she said. “In Family Court, I held the position of court recorder, financial specialist and probate register. “The gradual progression in responsibilities gave me the opportunity to learn what it takes to operate a court - from entering case files to court operations.” As lhe administrator of a highly trained court staff, she works to supjxirt the smooth operation of the county’s judicial system. For her contribution, day in, day out. to ensure that the system runs well, Ine.s Straube is this week’s Bright Light. Experience that led to my current job: When I held lhe position of financial specialist. I worked closely with Robert Nida who was lhe court administrator at the time. people involved. Il becomes more complex when you consider jury trials and having to socially di stance potentially 100-plus people, while ensuring the safely and well-being of the stall and public. How I resolved it: We needed to find a place big enough to accommodate social distancing while meeting lhe requirements of having the proceedings saved into our court recording software and making the proceedings available to the public It’s been rather interesting, to say the least, but we made it work. It worked because we had people willing locollaborate with us to make sure every aspect of the process was considered. Helping with the challenges: The Thomappie Kellogg assistant superintendent and his staff volunteered to allow us to use Ines Straube I assisted Mr. Nida in preparing budgets, collecting data to report to the slate and to lhe Barry County administrator and commissioners. What came next: In 2011. the criminal' civil court administrator retired, instead of having one administrator for each division, the court restructured to one trial court administrator with two deputy administrators. New opportunity: When the deputy court administrator position became available. I decided to apply. It made sense to me because I really enjoyed the analytical side of court operations, and I thrive on problem-solving, even though some problems arc more difficult to resolve than others. Duties of a court administrator*. Court administrators arc responsible for lhe overall supervision of administrative and operational activities of the trial court and must ensure the court continues to have the resources and systems in place to administer justice or resolve disputes. Challenges I’ve faced: Recently, lhe biggest challenge ot the job. and I know many can relate, is having to navigate through all lhe state executive orders and the Michigan Supreme Court Orders while try ing to make the expectations fit into our court system. Don’t gel me wrong, we are accustomed to receiving administrative orders and hav ing to implement the mandates, but those usually arc weekly or monthly and provide .sufficient lime io strategize and io implement the mandate. lhe biggest challenge: lhe most recent administrative order tequircd the courts to continue to process ca es while complying with social distancing, which is no big deal when you’re dealing with cases having a few the high school and staff time. Even though we were not able to make it work, I’m still thanklul they noticed our need and jumped at lhe opportunity to assisl the courts; Barry Expo staff, who have been great in allowing iis to use their facility; as well as the county's II staft. the sheriff’s office, and our court employees. What I love about ntj work: 1 love knowing that even, j.,, wi|| be different, and throughout t|lc d ' - . wi|| have many opixirtunities lo p^^olve. But nt‘»t mtportantly.| loveT ,,el to work with a great group of ' J lhal fm part of sPeS deVcl^lt to •■"P"’" °“r Shout-outs to rL.l>rs; From the udges to the staffT'm County is really lucky to have thiSt 1 ' ,t meether. Allot ore Willi \^P'«^ Xlo what is nc“ssary M> O8'°J'"”P. 1. hiive lheir matters heard moving through^ tq make 5Ua ‘ What H^tourt systent. graduate-M Each Wrvi makes the ' ^neone 1 who ’"'tl tell a h,gh , . . fUrs d who ^h-r ')<’" K,< knoss J. ptap J 11 ' I'dunteer M/,r. %<,’ ‘.rJ f ,e '’••rir. he ,,r {"U. ' »i/or,‘‘<. • <«<«/ n. „...., J '■ ■ '‘li. '' for ' ,,o ollwr ' ul -WHK: or Hasting' ' g&jcom Schools also offer children a safe and if the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us supportive environment with higher levels anything, it has made it clear that life is of self-esteem and a place where they are filled with uncertainty. For months, we less likely to feel depressed, have thoughts locked down - hoping to beat the virus, but of suicide, or feel social anxiety. Plus, losing our healthy economy at the same in-person schooling oilers children a num­ time.Today, we’ve re-opened, but more than ber of important services that may not be I70JXX) people have died, and that number available or convenient to children not is still rising. returning to school. Nationwide, more than With just days before schools open across 30 million students participate in the the stale, educators are sitting on the edges National School Lunch Program and nearly of lheir seats wondering what those first 15 million in the school Breakfast Program days will look like. Families and policymak­ each day. These programs arc especially ers have been wrestling for weeks over important to lower-income families, offer­ whether children should return to school or ing them a critical source of healthy foods. continue learning online from home. Now. In-person schooling gives students access after a much longer break than anticipated, to mental health treatment, counseling and as we start the 2020-21 school year, they are looking for new ways to deal with the edu­ one-on-one educational support that many students don’t get at home. Schools also can cation of our students. provide a layer of protection from neglect Across the county, educators are poring and abuse. A 2018 Department of Health over relum-to-school plans to present to the and Human Services report found that teach­ state and parents in an effort to give them a ers and other staff members were responsi­ belter understanding of what to expect as they choose to return lheir children lo in-per­ ble for identifying more than one-fifth of all son learning or accept an online version of reported child abuse cases - more than any school this fall. The school year will look other category. These are issues that can different, at least to start, but we’re learning have a lasting impact on children that soci­ to live during a pandemic that caught every­ ety could be dealing with for years to come one off guard and, like all those other pan­ as children are deprived access to trained demic-related decisions we’ve had to make, school professionals who can identify the there will be few good answers to our edu­ signs of trauma and provide for needed sup­ cational dilemma. port. The American Academy of Pediatrics On one hand, it’s important to consider all the safety ramifications, but there also strongly advocates “that all policy consider­ should Ik* an equal concern if students don t ations for the coming school year should return lo in-person learning. The U.S. start with a goal of having students physical­ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ly present in school.” The academy main­ recently released guidelines emphasizing tains that keeping kids out of school puts that students should get back into the class­ them at significant risk for a wide range of negative health outcomes. The organization room for lhe sake of their own well-being. According to the CDC, children have a points to a huge body of research before the much lower risk for contracting COVID-19 pandemic showing that, when children are compared to adults. And. based on the best out of school for the summer or holidays, j available evidence, it indicates that, if chil­ they are less physically active, have less dren become infected, they are far less likely cardiovascular fitness and irregular sleep to suffer severe symptoms. According to the patterns, which can lead to a number of CDC. its of July, the United Slates reported other health issues. that children and adolescents under 18 years Plus, the negative outcomes from exces­ of age account for fewer than 7 percent of sive screen time are well-documented. I COVID-19 cases and less than 0.1 percent Depression and anxiety have increased among young people during social isolation. I of COVID-19-related deaths.: The report indicated that relatively rare, and may _ be worse for children of color. “We flu-related deaths- tn-children occur-every--have every reason to believe children who year. From 2004-2005 to 2018-2019, flu-re­ are socially isolated during a pandemic are lated deaths in children reported to the CDC al even greater health risk, particularly as during regular flu seasons ranged from 37 to sports leagues, swimming pools, summer 187 deaths. During the MINI pandemic camps and other recreational facilities (April 15, 2009, to Oct. 2, 2010), 358 pedi­ remain closed and interaction with peers is atric deaths were reported. unavailable,’’the academy states. So far during this pandemic, deaths of A study by researchers at Brown and children are less than in each of lhe last five Harvard universities assessed how 800.000 flu seasons, with 64 reported to the CDC students using Zeam, an online math pro­ With lhe help of parents, who carefully gram. both before and after schools closed monitor lhe health of lheir children before in March 2020. indicates that, through late sending them lo school, we may be able to April, student progress in math decreased by avoid outbreaks which area school superin­ about half, with a more negative impact for tendents tell us “could make it impossible those in lower-income zip codes. The survey for schools.” found that remote learning makes absorbing On the other hand, a return to total in-per­ information more difficult for students with son learning affects more than just the chil­ disabilities, developmental delays or other dren. Schools also are populated by teach­ cognitive disabilities. ers, bus drivers, food workers, and vendors There’s no question that returning to - some in lhe CDC’s high-risk category. school will have its challenges, partly Given the risk those adults will accept in because none of us has all the answers. The returning to in-person learning and the pos­ pandemic, though, brings other priorities sibilities of contracting lhe disease from into sharper focus. A return to in-person each other or the students who more easily learning with all the support from the experts transmit the disease, they all now become cited previously and with lhe maximum front-line workers. It’s imperative that health safely precautions needed will Lake schools do whatever is necessary to main­ money - money that the government, both tain their safety. state and federal, has not made a priority for At lhe same time, the risks for children education. attributed to closed schools also are an Il’s time we showed our support for edu­ important factor to consider. Social, emo­ cation with our tax dollars. tional and behavioral health factors, eco­ We also have a responsibility as a com­ nomic well-being, and diminished academic munity to opening schools and keeping achievement of children in lhe short- and them open. Where community COVID-19 long-term are well-known and well-docu­ infections arc low, experts say it’s safe to mented. consider going back lo school. In places According to the Northwest Evaluation where they arc not, such as Georgia and Association, long breaks from in-person Florida, we’re seeing openings followed by education are harmful to student learning. re-closures. For example, the effects of summer break There will be mistakes, uncertainty and from in-person schooling on academic prog­ threats along our own way. but rest assured ress, known as “summer slide,” are docu­ thai giving our young people a quality—-and mented. The NEA confirms that, in lhe safe -- education is a must. summer following third grade, students lose Education is the most powerful weapon nearly 20 percent of their school-year gains which you can use lo change the world.” in reading and 27 percent of their gains in Nelson Mandela said. math. But in lhe summer after seventh If we expect a better world in the years to grade, students lose on average 39 percent come, then our students will need the tools of their school-year gains in reading and 50 to make possRqc Let’s focus on getting percent of lheir gains in math. Schools play an important role in support­ our kids back in school - it’s in the best ing the whole child as well, not just lheir interests of us all academic growth. Schools provide a stable and secure environment for developing social skills and relationships. The .social interaction al school gives children lhe chance to develop their language, communi­ cation. social, emotional and the interper­ sonal skills necessary lo function as young adults. In an in-person school environment, children are more likely to learn how to develop and maintain friendships, how to behave in groups, and to interact and form long-lasting relationships with people out­ side their immediate family. Fred Jacobs, CEO. J-Ad Graphics Inc �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 20, 2020 — Page 5 Limit'11®’ Access risks our right to vote ^nlPaSS iut|gment, do some study A recent letter tn .u . "Unbaffled thinking about Cd,t°.r hcnt,Hne^ Trump” is a “hot take’’ k gOOd lhin®s nnd OUR president (for OUr President. ALL of us) has himself * 3 problc,n for ^ut abortion untd Ae a care followers’ ofSJe’us°nly W<ml *hat Can makc J«us X nothing Jesus never talked at>ut USC °De isSUe and review the-h' *Urn ,o Numbe's 5:28. instructed th. t '"Y'VaIcr'’section and who The ““Jent to be consumed. nluraliiv of -4 'n?- ab°ut America is our f'fa ,ogc,hcrna came from only 40 years ago due to ^000+ v"P,Urc °Ul °f Con,c« wriu«’ ^redlv years ago. * You want authenticity in your faith as 1 do? Do some study. You want the free exchange of ideas in America? You only have to look to the Constitution. I, too, ascribe to follow Jesus and we’ll disagree on what that means, but no one should pass judgment on another in regards to their heart. I’m imploring voters as to what they’ll do at the ballot box: The ballot box makes one hell of a confessional. You’re allowed to change your mind and vote against OUR President and vote FOR America. Rather than paint broad strokes about the lies of an industry, you only have to look to a man who couldn’t tell the truth if it was written on a cue card. Two Corinthians, indeed. To the edil°r: ery citizen Guaranteeing js u nciA nght to vote in a fo,r e,e r (jOn. Lnsuring । J*just democracy W 1 %ff(.disc and Ct|||aJ every citizen has mnet’011 Povcr CtXss ,o the ballot is a wh<> see thc u nr»*nt. There are pc°P ftfir js to u > o make sure an election *||clf the large^ ,/atc on eliminating Y electoral frau^^dcni studies on how n c f0 as taken place in recent b.^ K in,nini while there is some fr»u“' wc|| as j Jlhs has been true for rn;»'"’ Person vot­ ingr, Electronic R..„ The nonpros d |hat ori- ^'ration Information Cent" of al. Idcnh. fieri just 572 deceased '-ting or voting on behalf * Nop e out of about 14.6 million jna,| in ||w 2016 and 2018 Pjnc£ump.s ,s- » 0.0025 percent. Donald Electa f^ential Advisory Commission xj |niegrhy disbanded after sc'C caUse lh did not find significant^That does not mekin t lry t0 My wife nnd I, and Donald and Melania Trump, have been doing so for years. It is ridiculous to suggest that the solution to mail­ in ballot security is to limit mail-in voting. Our job should be to do whatever is necessary to guarantee lhe maximum security of mail-in ballots - not prevent the use of them. Voting is our right as citizens. If mail-in ballots are going to Ik used, it is the duty of the government to institute, implement and fund the measures necessary to makc sure it can l>e done right. This means making sure lhe United Stales Postal Service is operating al lhe maximum capability as well as efficiency. The post office is a service enabled in the U.S. Constitution. It is not a for-profit busi­ ness. Cost-cutting measures that prevent thc post office from doing its job are self-defeat­ ing at best, and malicious constraints on elec­ toral access at worst. How can removing mail votcr rolls> then it is not enough . J * mPt to purge names from inaccurate •» c should make sure all of thc named individuals COnlacl. Jason Noble. ed and given an opportuni y to register prop­ Middleville erly. If they have moved, they should be notified so that they can register at tj|Cjr ncw location. If there seems to be a problem with thc signature, they shou • notified and given the opportunity to correct any discrep­ ancy. If it appears they are deceased, this should be verified by an attempt to contact them before thc removal occurs. If the concern is for accurate voter identifi­ cation. it is not enough to specify that citizens get a special voter identification card. Any identification that enables one to get a driver’s license should be equally suitable for votcr ID. A driver’s license itself should be ade­ quate proof of identification. That is what 1 have used at thc polls here in Michigan. If there is a concern about the security of mail-in ballots, then it is misguided to say we should limit mail-in ballots. And let’s be very clear, there is no functional difference between an absentee ballot and a mail-in ballot. Who gets to use one or lhe other in a given state varies, but the actual voting process is identi­ cal. Whether you share the same level of con­ cern about the safety of voting in person during the current pandemic, many more peo­ ple will be joining the tens of millions who have already voted by mail safely and secure­ ly. > Correction A vacant scat on the Barry Intermediate School District Board will be filled as soon as possible, Superintendent Richard Franklin said. A Page 8 article in the Aug. 13 Banner was incorrect as to how soon the vacancy would be filled. Franklin further clarified that Barry ISD will be fol­ lowing the districts it serves, Delton Kellogg and Hastings, in offering in-person learning to all students who prefer that option. The board met in person at the ISD office. 535 West Woodlawn, on Aug. 11 with masks required and social distancing allowing limited public attendance. fwrite Us A Letter/ Check out the all new www.hastingsbanner.com The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. . I PttPrs serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per nerson par month. . We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. YOUR SITE FOR LOCAL NEWS Provided by the Harry County offices of Edward Jones Member SIK’ Andrew Cove, AAMS® 421 W. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-3553 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County since 1856 P^ey.. Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. N M 43 Highway- Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 ! 351 N. M-43 9 ^..^phlcs com • Advertising: ads@jadgraphlcs.com News and press releases.no .s.i » Frederic Jacobs . advertising department . Classified ads accepted Monday through Fn^jy publisher & CEO B30 am. to 5.00pm Hank Schuuring .newsroom. K Bremer Taylor Owens Greg Chandler Scott Ommen Mike Gilmore Ty Greenfield Jennie Yonker Subscription Rotes: $52 per year in Barry County <60 per year in adjoining counties $65 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER- Send address change- f0 P.O. Box 188 Hastes. Ml 490M0168 etcond Class Postage at HMtngs.M! 49O5S Jim Lundin 2169 W.M-43-Hwy., Suite A Hastings, Ml 49058 (269)818-0423 What does unplanned career transition mean for you? The COVID-19 pandemic has unsettled the country’s employment picture for months and will likely continue to do so for a while. However, lhe nature and terminology of this disruption varies greatly among individuals - some have seen lheir jobs disappear, others have been “furloughed” and still others have been offered an early retirement. If you’re in this final group -- those either offered, or feeling forced to accept, an early retirement, how should you respond? Try to look at your situation holistically, rather than strictly in a short-term manner. Consider these four areas: • Retirement - What does retirement really look like to you? Arc you ready lo fully retire or would you like to work part time? Are you confident that you can work somewhere else for a few- years before retiring on your own terms? If you’re not certain you can work elsewhere, how can you adjust your desired retirement lifestyle - what you planned to do, where you hoped lo live. elc. - to meet your new reality? • Income - Just how financially affected you’ll be from an early retirement depends on several factors: how much you’ve already saved and invested, whether you’re married and have a working spouse, whether you’se paid off your mortgage, and so on. In any case, though, you’ll need to answer several questions, including these: Do I need lo start taking withdrawals from my IRA and 401(k>? If so, how much can 1 afford to take out each year without running the risk of outliving my resources? Should I adjust my current investment mix? If I haven’t yet started collecting Social Security, should I do so now, or can I afford to wait until my monthly payments will be bigger? Are there any other sources of income 1 can leverage? You may want to work with a financial professional to address these and other key income-related issues. • Insurance ■- If you received health insurance through your employer, an early retirement could present you with a dilemma, especially if you’re not quite old enough for Medicare. You might be eligible for COBRA, which provides ex-employees and their dependents the option of continued health insurance for potentially up to 36 months, but this coverage can be expensive. As an alternative, y ou might be able to negotiate an extended severance package, which could provide you with health insurance for several months. Or. you might be able lo get on the health insurance plan of your working spouse. • Legacy - Many people want to take care of their family while they’re alive and leave something behind when they’re gone. If you take an earl) retirement, you might lose your employer’s group life insurance. Of course, if this plan was not sufficient, you may have already supplemented it with your own policy, but, if you haven’t, you may need to shop around for some coverage, particularly if you have children still al home. You also may want to lake this opportunity lo review your key financial accounts to make sure your beneficiary designations still accurately reflect your wishes; ■■ ■ Going through an unplanned career transition is certainly challenging. But looking closely at the four areas describe above, and making the appropriate moves, may help you reduce some of the stress and can put you in a better position to start the next phase of y our life. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward SIPC. Jones. Member BibleStudyCer.com I oo-F/ZciH-ar LeaT&yriiier y 866-700-0123 riSuaiw CALL US TODAY TOR A FREE ESTIMATE NO MORE GUTTER CLEANING, 0R your money BACK GUARANTEED! 1-866-495-1709 FREE Bible Study Guides & DVD's! start twUdaif (juiiis selection of cotton prints, sotid colors & Wide backing \ ^rttyfor Our Motion MICHAEL KINNEY » PLUMBING '■■0 Licensed Master Plumber Wk Licensed Journeyman Plumber R The Hastings BaHUCT Dr. Kenneth M. Kornheiser, Prairieville Township Financial FOCUS prevent fraud, but w y tt concerns about fraud be used a . f°r Smiting the right of all citizens to partiClpatc in our C1Kl,theSconcem is for boxes and mail-sorting machines, limiting overtime work when necessary to guarantee timely delivery of the mail, and leaving mail in post offices undelivered be lhe correct mea­ sures for maintaining our mail service? And if one believes in person ballots arc the most secure or otherwise desirable, they better be devoting their efforts to making sure we have adequate polling places in all com­ munilies nnd adequate funding and staff to give people timely access to those polling places, lo gel the ballot, counted in a reason­ able time, and to provide proper voter infor­ mation systems so all citizens know where to vote, when lo vote and how to vote. It is a contradiction to pursue a free and fair election by attempts to limit voting. .-day f> en 3 PickdJ^S[ML9Jl. Accepting Applications Full-Time Shipping q Receiving Technician Duties to mc'ude-PackQ0ing transmission & engine pallets, loading « tiuck. wj)h a f0(k lilt, boxing P^cts (Ot ups & f0dEx shipp|ng and "eight truck schedu,inQPuyrangeto be reviewed with O5,O"^wa0eo(-$i2hr A-ntactsDe'son °'on |in0 CGNopho^0uu,opar,SCom n° calls please. New consiniction, remodel, repair, drain cleaning. BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEATERS Same Dav Installation Office (269) 948-2248 Mobile (269) 838-5112 MM Tank tou Scott Mathews of ‘’MOBILE MARINE SERVICES” has ended the business and moved to Florida. He wishes to extend his heartfelt ‘•Thank You” to al! his loyal customers and friends. �K 'ViHiiini Loren Shumway passed away S' nday, Aug. 16, 2020 al Trillium Woods in E ■ ron Center after an eight month battle with c ;ccr. till was bom on July 30.1949 in Detroit to : loving parents. Robert J. and Betty June s. mp Shumway . Bill was raised in Hastings ... ere he graduated from Hastings High S :hool in 1967. Sill served in the United States ?\rmy in \ main as an infantry’ soldier before being . red and honorably discharged. • Bill worked for General Motors in Lansing ere he retired after 38 years. In retirement. 1 worked for Walmart in Hastings for a ;dful of years. Bill is survived by Melissa, his loving wife < 52 years: his three children.Thomas (Sara) nnway, Aaron (Kelli) Shumway, Callie .iron' Venhuizcn: and grandchildren. Al­ ’s *ndrva. Aubree. Aaron Patrick, BrookLyn X. -den. Addison and Jay. Bill is also survived i - his five siblings. Brian and Ann Shumway. ice Morgan. Robert and Marva Shumway, •\ chad and Vivianna Shumway, and Connie ; Darrell Peterson. Bill was preceded in death by his parents. \t this time, there arc no plans for a .-mortal service. Marjorie Louise Sines, age 93. of Middleville, passed away peacefully on August 8,2020 at Thomappie Manor. Marjorie was born in Hastings on September 18, 1926. the daughter of Charlie and Sarah (Traver) Tebo. Marjorie worked as a waitress at Court Street Grill in Hastings for over 30 years. She attended First Baptist Church in Middleville, hi her free time. Marjorie enjoyed flower gardening and going shopping. Most important to Marjorie was her family, whom she loved dearly. Marjorie is survived by her children, Tom (Pat) Sines. Margo (Richard) Neeson. Robin (Steve) Berg; daughter-in-law, Ginny Sines: II grandchildren: and 23 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, James Sines; son Rick Sines; and several siblings. Marjorie’s family will receive friends on Saturday. Aug. 22. 2020 from 11a.m. to 1 pan. at the Whitneyville Bible Church, where services will begin at I p.m. Private burial will take place in Mt. Hope Cemetery. Please visit www.beelergorcsfuneral.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Marjorie's family. MI - Gary Lee Sawyer, of uitMings. age unexpectedly passed away on Aug. 11,2O2O w.(h his f.uni|y his side. Gar> was born on March 10, 1954, to Loren and Mynle (Sousley) Sawyer in Grand Rapids. He was a 1972 graduate ot Eagle Rock High School in Los Angeles. CA. On May 12, 1973 Gan married the love of his life, Marilyn Thwaiies. They enjoyed 47 years together. , Gary enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, woodworking, and building model cars. Gan was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Edward and William VanStratcn, James and Larry Sawyer, and a sister, Patricia Sawyer. Gary is survived by his wife of 47 years. Marilyn; daughter. Deanna Dietsch; grandson, Logan Dietsch. all of Hastings; his son, Scott (Christine) Sawyer of Saginaw Township; sisters. Gail (Earl) Connor of Hastings and Bonnie Balk (Joe Klocko) of Grand Rapids, and sister-in-law, Patricia Sawyer of Allendale, and several nieces and nephews. A celebration of life for Gary will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence visit www. girrbachfuncralhome.net. Sprague Evelyn D. Worship Together ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH ’ An Expression Of Who Jesus Is In Thc World Around Us". 26 <5 N. M-43 Hwy.. P.O. Box 8. H.i^’ngs Telephone 269-945Emai I hasifmcC^pnaiL evil Website: www.hastings L? .: icthodist.com. Pastor Brian ' . Student Ministries I krc.’tor. Emma Miller. Woiship L'ii.-rtor. Martha Stoetzci. Sunday Morning Worship: n- and 10:30 am. beginning J 21 until further notice. Due ike current health crisis, our i; j -cry is temporarily dosed and ue arc temporarily suspending all Cliildren's ministries. Our chur 1i sanctuary is sei up for -pci ' distancing. We do not requ wearing masks, but do .rage it. especially while i/a!' :ng through lhe building, vb • and after services. Please ' eep s our family together during ; e »rshjp service. We are a uh generational church family .nJ . ndrrstxnd that while this h' ' miun outbursts or potty•y: .'si .-re not inconvenienced • . y >f little one. In an effort lo ip you. we arc providing a: y activity bags for each il'_ lhe bars arc to lie taken I;., or disposed of alter each o 1 21 ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. 269-945-4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip. .Mass 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Mass 8 and 11 a.m. Sunday. 301 E. State Rd. P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. “Phone: 269-948 0900. Website: wwvvJifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group6:30 p.m. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 pun.; Young Adults 6-9 pun. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30-8 pun., Kids 4 Truth (Children Kindergarten-5th Grade). 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 pun. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information. 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings. Ml 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 am. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel-chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a an. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) PLEAS ANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road. Dowling, Ml 49050. Pastor. Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 10 am. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 7025 Milo Rd.. P.O. Box 765, (comer of Milo Rd. &S.M-43), Delton, Ml 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 20-1-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11:30am, Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer lime 6:30 to7:30 pm. HASTINGS,Ml _ Evelyn Doreen Sprague, age 85. of Hastings, died Monday. Aug. 17, 2020 in Hastings. Evelyn was born on Oct. 9. 1934 in Hastings and had previously lived part-time in Akumal. Mexico and Vero Beach. FL. Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years. Kenneth Sprague. Evelyn was employed at E.W Bliss for several years before founding K&E Tackle. Inc. with her husband, Ken, manufacturing and distributing fishin^ lures throughout the country'. e Evelyn and Ken enjoyed traveling throughout the Us Canada and Mexico. Evelyn and Ken Weri regulars at the Moose and Elks lodge dance$ jn the past and enjoyed gathering with friends. She enjoyed eanipmg cooking and spending time with her grandchildren. pL 1 t jicr position in the <an.ily busine„ fiS grandchild xs^$'*n>^"’ud,,i'neaspossib,e Her suniv^’S' dangl-cr Kathy Go^H0u^0 " a^„gs. Ken Sprague. Jr. of Hayings.SoJ ’ s (Jennifer) Sprague: 328 N Jefferson Sired. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Pclc» z\dams, contact 616-690 8609. grandchildren 7 n information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, lhe churches and Elaine Evelyn Wa Parents, Carl - and these local businesses: 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 sflexfcb HhaSTINGS 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 n CnraRUir. William Jan ‘ death by her Receded m u for ">eir iS|«f of Wo.m1I;-"1> a,,d *° Elar-> <’lCar'w0f \k for all of their assistance. Nets'ork 11 this time Snorial s*rrvi? .PdonTtion ’ l>e made to ,^ily ieque>> £ memory charity oi °ne ‘ ofAthenr l"c»,'>11 t-r ,llc rlireetion oi the Gim, <ie under • <-0'tdole11CVs vt> funeral H1’"10’ ‘ "t. Sinlluehh„K.t>- be sent throHfih ww ■ ’’hc.net. HASTINGS, Ml - On Saturday, Aug. 15, 2020, Hcndrika “Hans” W. Moederzoon VanKuilenburg. age 90. of Hastings, passed away after a brief illness. Hans was the loving and proud mother to four children. Roy VanKuilenburg (Dawne) of Hastings, Manon Bennett (Rick Onisko) of Novi. Hans VanKuilenburg (Diane) of Middleville nnd Nicole Hamner (Bob Green) Kyle.TX. Hans was preceded in death by her father and mother, Willem and Hcndrika Moederzoon; thc father of her children. John VanKuilenburg. and her sister. Wilhelmina Moederzoon (Judy Finazzi), and her brother. Frederick Moederzoon (Fia Moederzoon). She is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and her younger brother, John Moederzoon (Marge); sister-in-law, Fia Moederzoon. and many cousins, nephews and nieces. Hans had nine grandchildren. Ben and Westley VanKuilenburg, Ryan and Brett VanKuilenburg, Saskia Hamner and step­ grandchildren. Michael and Traci Green, Madison Bennett and Alexa Onisko, and four great-grandchildren. Hans was bom in the Netherlands and immigrated lo the United States with her family in December of 1959. She spent her early years in the U.S. as a housewife and after learning to drive at the age of 36. went to work as a buyer for Muir Drugs. After some time in the business world. Hans began to \\ ork in the medical field as an office assistant and later as a patient advocate and advisor. Her compassion for people was never ending and all of her patients loved her care, concern and assistance during their time of need. Hans pursued many interests during her life from entertaining, cooking, photography, and sewing to name just a few. Eventually she turned her love of photography into a business and sold many of her works at art fairs and through direct sales. She lived through the horrors of lhe second World War as a teenager and these memories remained very vivid throughout her lifetime. She was a proponent for peace and in her mission to spread the word of peace and tolerance, she wrote and published her book Silent Heroes, a memoir about lhe war and lhe part her family, especially her father, played in the Dutch underground resistance. Hans was a favored speaker al many schools and clubs, providing a personal rendition of her experience and always promoting peace to all. Hans will be remembered for her kindness, concern for others, charitableness, artistic abilities, sunny disposition and optimistic outlook on life, but by her children mostly for her unfailing nurturing, exposure to thc arts and love that was alway s there for each child when needed. She was the heart of the family and always a great friend and will be missed by all whose lives she touched. Graveside services were held on Wednesday. Aug. 19, 2020 at Riverside Cemetery, Hastings. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Thomappie Arts Council. P.O. Box 36, Hastings, Ml 49058. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit w ww.girrbachfuneralhome. net. Lois Pickering Lois Mae Pickering passed away Sunday, Aug. 16.2020. after a short battle with cancer. She was bom Feb. 6, 1941, in East Detroit, to Jane and Herbert Blidden. Lois was married to David Pickering for 52 years. They made lheir home in Ortonville, Ml where they raised their family and a menagerie of animals. After retirement, they moved to Hastings. In recent years. Lois and David split their time between Apache Junction. AZ and Tubbs Lake near Big Rapids. She enjoyed their travels, cooking, card games and spending time with family and friends. She will be dearly missed by all. Lois is survived by, her husband; three daughters, Rebecca (Michael) Lydy. Michelle (Mark) Bolt, and Patricia (Michael) McKay; grandchildren, Brandi. Marie, Bruce, Emily, Alexander and Calvin; and great­ grandchildren, Connor, Treah. and Martin. Cremation will take place and Lois will be interred nt Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly. ML A celebration of her life will be held at u later date. The I -ord bless you and keep you. May he show his face to you and have mercy. May he turn his countenance to you and give you peace. Lois and her family are being cared tor locally by Daggel-Gilbert Funeral Home. PRAIRIHVILLE, MI - Donaiu uwyu Nottingham, age 77, of Prairieville, passed away on Aug. 17,2020 at Wings Home. Don was bom Nov. 25, 1942 in Plainwell, the son of Lloyd and Doris (Boulter) Nottingham. In his younger years, Don worked on the family farm. He graduated from Delton Kellogg High School in 1961. Don was a member of Doster Community Reformed Church since 1979. where he served as an cider many times and was a music leader. Don served as a volunteer fire fighter on lhe Prairieville Twp. Pine Lake Fire Department for many years. He was also a member of the Delton Moose I-odge. Don worked as a machinist for E.W. Bliss in Hastings for 30 years and then worked for the Barry’ County Commission On Aging delivering Meals on Wheels with his wife. Don enjoyed gardening. hunting, woodworking, fishing, mushroom hunting, playing euchre, music and singing. Don is survived by his wife. Elayne (Eichenauer) Nottingham; sons. Stephen (Tammy) Nottingham and Kevin (Vickey) Nottingham: grandchildren. Christopher, Emily (Bryan).Tyler, Kirsten, and Mackenzi; and several nieces and nephews. Don was preceded in death by his parents and brother. Ronald Nottingham. Private family services will be conducted on Friday. Aug. 21, 2020. The family welcomes you to join them virtually on the funeral home’s website at 1 p.m. Memorial contributions to Doster Community Reformed Church, Wings Home, or Barry’ County Commission on Aging will be appreciated. Please visit www. williamsgoresluncral.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Don's family. Janet Ann Reiglcr, age 80. passed away surrounded by her loving family on Aug. 1. 2020. She was bom May 12, 1940 in Hastings, daughter of Robert and Mabie (Seeber) Foote. Janet graduated from Hastings High School in 1958 and Wright Beauty Academy, in Battle Creek in 1959. She was a beautician for Sally’s in Hastings and Grand Ledge. She was a former member of the Grand Ledge Chapter 14 Order of the Eastern Star. She loved watching her boys grow and play sports, enjoyed the water, spending time with friends and family, and especially loved and adored her grandchildren. Janet is survived by her husband of 58 years, Gary ; lheir sons. Perry Reiglcr and Dennis (Kathy) Reiglcr; grandchildren, Jennifer and Aaron Reigier, brother-in-law, Owen (JoLynn) Reigier; and many cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Bernard Foote. A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, Aug. 8, 2020 al Peters and Murray Funeral Home. Grand Ledge. In lieu of Howers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society in memory of Janet Reigier. www.petersandmurrayfuneralhonie.com GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 269-945-9554 or more information. �Y°ung men te|| of *hikjng’ to Colored The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 20. 2020 — Pago 1 't. ^^-^nclusion fl look back at Hie and columns on io(i3’1,1 y In the Hastings flanne! lyp. Follm, .,f US-3(h they ut< what ^buav intostlx”7"’" "’ey ».-r,"-''■•'<•■/. .dep, J ""‘ n. ‘ '“ ,I rides by Richard "Dirk' c . o ' ‘“'tter Panned ‘f'e Aug. 23. 1922. Banner’ r,,hli^cd i" to a I'ronticr Daw cel h Ur lbtln a vi'n TURNING BACK THE PAGES they arrived in Co'or< / v f',ey (,<f fl,tce People rheymetalonopi:”' fh<‘.journey. the took in mav have hern ,, ’<m‘ "Kbts rbev hi',tU{nil^oitereainyparto/ lheir trip. Ted's parents -Jfrdcrick Sr. and Evelyn iBunlen Hill) sistet Virginia (later Houseman) uvr<- ottcgral in the boys' "hike. , ‘hi Hdls dtove thc boys June d() to Holland. Chicago. iiZ'be!a'iria'""/ar"\‘' "i and th ' b Mandarin Tourist Village, Council Bluffs, Iowa. “One of America’s Better Camps” . The automobile popularized recreational travel, which led to tourist parks, or campgrounds, as they became known. This tourist village along the Lincoln Highway likely was the next generation of lodging for traveling families. But in 1922, when two Hastings boys hitchhiked to Colorado, their preferred overnight shelter was a hayloft, hopefully complemented by breakfast - all for free or in exchange for helping with chores. (Image from Lyell Henry Collection/Prairie Rivers of lowa/Lincoln Highway Heritage Byway) li"e Tbe “'r C rmn. II I„WI. and mtentionalb- ,n Colorado pr, sumably to drive th, boys back. ' Hastings Roys on the Hike Along the Lincoln Highway to Colorado Have interesting experiences Learn the art of shocking wheat Dogs and motherless calves sometime interfere with hours of repose We publish below series telling of the Frederick “Ted Hill Cook while hiking to the second letter in the roadside adventures of Jr. and Richard “Dick” Colorado: I believe we left sou in our last letter in a hay bam tn Valley. Nebraska. July 5. July 6. We got an early start this morning. Five miles our. we stopped at a farmhouse and asked if there w ere any odd jobs we could do lor a breakfast. The fanner said he was “that particular.” but to come in anyway. We did and he gave us all we could possibly eat. We made Fremont an hour later by means of several short rides. When we left Fremont, the weather looked very threatening, and we were glad to get a ride to Ames |Nebraska). Outside of Ames, a car slopped and took us to North Bend. There, we met a farmer who introduced himself as Mr. Lamley and asked if we wanted to work a couple of days in his wheat field. We told him what kind of farmers wc were, but said we were willing to work. He replied that that was about all that was necessary and ottered us $3 per day for our work. He t<x>k us home with him that night and introduced us to the family. They were very pleasant people and made us feel right at home. We turned in earlier (than normal] because Mr. Lamley said we were to get an early start in the morning. July 7 and 8. Got up. or rather were called al 5:30. started work at 7. Mr. Lamley proved a good man to work for. The first p;irt of lhe morning, he had us work with one of his hired men. Don. who introduced us to the mysteries of shocking wheat. His explanation was very brief: “After you pick up one bundle, all you have lo do is reach down and pick up another.” which just about covered all necessary instructions. Don turned out to be a very good fellow and was an old hand at shocking wheat. A few months before we met him. he had been hit an unusually hard blow by misfortune. His wife and child had been killed and 600 acres of w heat destroyed in one night by a cyclone and Dick Cook and Ted Hill relied mostly on farms for a meal, lodging, and occasional work in exchange for either. They got used to the attention they drew as they walked along the Lincoln Highway from Illinois to Colorado in the summer of 1922. (Library of Congress photo) hail storm. He was aw ay al the time and didn’t hear a word about it until he returned three days later, so he closed down and decided to travel about the country for a while. At North Bend, he met Mr. Lamley. where he was persuaded to stay and work in thc wheat field. That morning, a rather exciting incident occurred. While Fred was picking up some bundles of wheat, he heard a rattler buzzing nearby. Don spotted it, got a pitchfork and killed it. It had seven rattles and a button. Mr. Lamley told us later that rattlers used to be very thick about his farm, but had been pretty well cleaned out. Shocking wheat is rather monotonous work and is hard on the back until you gel broken in. There were iwo machines culling and three of us to do the stacking. [The machines] had quite a start on us. so we never gol caught up with them, lhe day was blistering hot. especially between 3 and 4 p.m. Il was hard work, and we were glad to have had the experience. July 9. We rode iwo miles with Mr. Lamley and started bumming again. A couple of miles out. we hailed an oil truck and were taken to Grand Island, where we spent the night on a pile of alfalfa outside of a tourist camp. Fresh alfalfa hay makes a fine bed. We Wish to Announce The Chevrolet We Arc Ajrcr.Ls for the- ScxxJth Hilf of Br.rry County ' •fjye Ey» cf tbe World Arc on lhe Chevrolet—The Faxtest Selling Sland„ ard Car Mrdk. . • . The Chevrolet Motor Co. am today— 3. World’e Largest manufacturers of High grade closed cars. 1. Manufacturers of the. lowest priced, quality automobile^. 2. World’s largest manufacturers of quality automobiles. Thc Right Car at the Right Price -CHEVROLET SEDAN High Tire Mileage. Economical 1 ire Sires. Eager Acceleration. t / »kzwho seek the Ut* Buih for th*. in ;z n fpor-t qtiabty Mim.1 [he ]owr*t fall F.a*e of C’or.nol and Operation. Mech.inh i!; Ar< rutibslity. py FEATURES . - Complete Equipment Ught Moy. IJr.tu a c 2, u. <>' M>«”nonki>’ with about thui xplcndij It Sich-Wertman Co Michigan Hickey . vehicles in which they were offered lifts mentioned lhe brand ot _ cheap automobile. This ad for’ Dick Cook,uejL.y got a ride :n V’^car made.' was placed in the Sept. 6, 1922 Twice, he satd W 9 se(|.ng standart car n . ChevrOlbv a‘ Hickory Corners dealer-, Banner W a n11- • July 10. Went over to the “Y” and had a much-needed bath. We couldn’t use the pool because it was ladies’day. Hard luck! Hunted up Dr. Gregory’s old friendDell and Huston, real estate men. They e.ive us a cordial reception. Mr. Huston jiKbnvd his wife and told her to get us something to eat. Mrs. Huston made us feel right al home and gave us a fine steak dinner. After a short visit w ith her. we called on Mr. and Mrs. Dell across the street. They invited us to stay all day in Grand Island, but we wanted to make Colorado that week, so we were forced lodecline. When we were about to leave. Mr. Dell made us take $150. He said not to think of it as charity, but to take it in place of lhe meal he would like to have given us. We had a steak dinner in Morgan three days later on it. Just outside of Grand Island, we were given a lift to Kearney in a truck. Outside of the city, we hailed a dri ver and were taken to Lexington. Here we had a fine lime finding a place to bunk. Vachel Lindsey, lhe poet, said a livery stable never turned a tramp down. He certainly didn’t pass through Lexington, Nebraska. There was no place in the town hall, and we had the jail in mind as the last resort. A man on the outskirts of town said we could sleep in his barn if we wanted to take chances with his bulldog w ho had pups. We walked on! Near the opposite side of town, we stopped at a house with a bam and asked permission to sleep in it. The lady kindly referred us to a man further up the street. On the way there, we saw a man driving a flivver into iris barn. We “approached” him and he gave us permission to sleep in his hay loft. He furnished us with iwo big comforters, which came in handy since the night was verv cold. July 11. We were awakened in thc bv our host hollering and asking us if we h id rather sleep than eat. Wc J negative, so he told us to come down and help clear away some eatables hls W|fc h.jd se| on lhe (able. He also relieved our embarrassment over our big appetites by saying he liked to see young nien wjlh . appetites. He told us he was a fnrnief who had moved into the city so his couW better education. There had recently been a fromier day celebration al LeMhplon and he said all lhe boys in town, his own »nc|UdCt|4 h.uJ lx.en throwing lassos ever since a( VVc^ ib|e objeci, such as ' e«<s. gate posts, passersby, etc. He .Us lhe best of luck as we started out on our trip. We made Gothenburgin a Gothenburg to Brad>.,?. did not pick up any rides. We ,lia ’j . ‘ miles afoot that afternoon, which "aS .“Jgcsl stretch we walked on lhe trip- • > ’’ll nig|u jn ., barn. We would have sL’P1 v ^illy but there was a young calf belo* ♦ H’t bawling for its mother all night long. ^ung call could have been c'cry"b'*K J* ''‘shed, it would have experienced » Jj* only have been rivaled in • Da»^ > J™ ’,. July 12. <iol i ' ’lri 'his morning. •Stopped al a I""" '„reel ‘'"‘■"ding lo get bu-aklasi but ,.7, ,v.,|.q by a savagel<X)king Great Pil,’d svj)erv °u. Picked up a ride into Max"*v hit two houses for meals but “'t(^ ">«ess. so ue hailed a truck a^l,lK Q,‘h Pjalu.( while heading westward from North Platte, we met two tourists at a filling station who asked us if we wanted to hold down the back scat of their car as far as Big Springs. We did. Stopped at Ogallala and had lunch with them. Ogallala was the outfitting stating for ranchers of that section. Big herds of cattle used to be driven here for shipment east. We reached Big Springs by 4 o’clock, hiked 6 miles toward Julesburg, Colorado, then received a ride into the city. Hunted up a good hay bam and decided to turn in early. Thc night' was very' cold, and we had to burrow down in the hay to keep warm. July 13. Two fellows at the tourists camp invited us to have breakfast with them. They were a couple of sign painters who were touring the country and painting signs for a living. They expect to be in Florida this winter. By the aid of a few short rides, we made Sedgwick by noon. Here we met two men who were going through Wiggins lo Denver. We received permission to ride with them. Saw a mirage that afternoon. A big grain elevator several miles down the road seemed to be floating in air. Uris was quite a sight, but we saw' so many of them that they began to be commonplace. Arrived in Fort Morgan about 5 o’clock and stayed'several hours. Here, we had the steak dinner that Mr. Dell had so kindly financed. Fort Morgan is an unusually attractive little town. Shade trees are planted along the streets, which are not common in lhe smaller prairie tow ns. We left Fort Morgan shortly after 8 and arrived in Wiggins about 9 o’clock at night. It was a little late to find a good bed so we took the best substitute available, a truck on the main street [perhaps a rail car or wagon, which also might be referred to as trucks). It was a hard bed. Our arms and legs went to sleep easily, but not ourselves. We got up early in the morning. July 14. Rcxle out to the ranch ihis morning with the mailman where we found the Hills. We thought we were gelling the ride free, but the driver charged us 50 cents apiece, which was lhe only ride we had to pay for on our way here. One more letter was published, in the Sept. 6. 1922. Banner, but (old only of their visiting the Frontier Days celebration in Cheyenne. Wyo. Fred Hill Jr. was born Aug. 7.190-1, making him just 17 when the two left on their trip. Cook, bom in October 1901, graduated from Hastings High School in 1920 and had attended the University of Michigan for two years. He earned a degree in chemical engineering, but after a few years working at lhe Goodrich Rubber Co. in Akron, Ohio, he relumed to Hastings and eventually took over publication of thc Bunner. He died in December 1989, at age 88. Hill, the teenager, would eventually attend lhe University of Michigan as well, and later the Pratt School of Design in New York. He returned lo Wesl Michigan and w'as a wellknown furniture designer in Grand Rapids before his death in 1951 at age 46. One of lhe earliest transcontinental highways in the United Slates, lhe road, named for U.S. president Abraham Lincoln, was conceived in 1912 by Indiana entrepreneur Carl G. Fisher and dedicated in 1913. according lo lhe Library of Congress. The Lincoln Highway ran coast-to-coast from Times Square in New' York City wesl to Lincoln Park in San Francisco, originally through 13 states. Compiled by Kathy Maurer. Sources: Hastings Banner, furniturecity, org. Library of Congress, familysearchxtrg,1 Jindag rave .com. Rnrk home Frandsen’s Big Siore was advertising blanket and linens specials, complete wilh’this image of a comfortable four-poster bed, while two Hastings boys were hiking west, sleeping primarily in barns. • ■" ~~ ■ Ted McKelvey ■: 4-10-30 ~ 5-28-20 Service of Remembrance Saturday, August 22, 2020 J:00 p.m. Hastings Seventh-day Adventist Church 904 Terry Lane, Hastings, MI 49058 Come celebrate Ted’s life. Share memories or stories about Ted at mckclvcymenioriesCigniail.com Lire streaming from your borne can be viewed an YouTube, Just search for “hustings SDA Hve,f to tune in. �■ poB Thursday. August 20, 2020 — The Mailings Banner SOCIAL SECURITY MATfEBs Specialist answers questions aboUf choices, eligibility, un-retiring and more still considered to lx: disabled under the adu Xn? disability rales, then payment . more information, read "What You N«d <> Know /Xbout Your Supplemental Sec > MP >"<■ f"«l « hm " n’mun'e Medicare.gov has an online plan finder and instructions available on how to use this tool. Io a^s the Medicare Plan on-rl' n,VI5" me<,icareSov/find-a.plan/ qu v stions/home .aspx. t 5 c ti <■ 4 L a c 11 li a V c a a l< < a d d b n /// retire at age 62. will I he eligible far Medicare? No. Medicare starts when you reach 65. If you retire at 62. you may be able to continue medical insurance coverage through your employer or purchase it from a private •insurance company until you become eligible :»or Medtcarc. For more information, read 800-7/2-1213 (TTY 800-325-0778). or . { hilve a ^xdon about my Medicare bill, who should 1 contact? First, contact your provider. If you are unable to get your question answered or the problem resolved. then contact .800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227). For more information about Medicare benefits, visit medicarc.gov. . / worked for many years before I became disabled, bur Ididn ‘t have enough recent work to receive Social Security Disability payments 1receive for SSL Will 1 ever receive Social Security payments? . It depends. If you have at least 40 quarters ?f coverage, you may be eligible for Social Security retirement payments beginning at age 62. Additionally, if you arc performing some work while you are on SSI, you may become currently insured for disability payments in lhe future. 1 here are other ways you could become eligible for Social Security benefits, including benefits through a spouse or a divorced spouse. For more information, call 800-772-1213 (TTY 800-325-0778) or contact your local Social Security office. ■ My child receives Supplemental Security Income. He will be 18 in a few months. Will his SSI payments continue after he turns 18? When a child who is on SSI turns 18. we conduct both a medical and a non-medical review to see if he or she is still eligible for SSI payments. If the child continues to meet the income and resource requirements, and is woik^. ... Income When You Turn 18 al socia slu . gov/pubs. / auiv a poster advising people 65 or o\tr with limited income and resources to apP. for Supplemental Security Income. tmonth I'll turn 65, and I thought la it eligible for SSL I planned to apply until in} neighbor told me I probably would be turne( down because I have children who could help support me. Is this true? f Whether your children are capable ot helping to support you docs not affect your eligibility. SSI eligibility depends solely on your income and resources (the things you own). If you have low income and few resources, you may be able to get SSI. However, if you are receiving support from your children or from anyone living inside or outside of your home, it may affect your eligibility or the amount you may receive. Support includes any food or shelter given to you or received by you because someone else pays for it. Learn more about SSI at socialsecurity.gov/ssi. I just received my first disability payment. How long will 1 continue to get them? In most cases, you will continue to receive benefits as long as you are disabled. However, certain circumstances may change your continuing eligibility for disability benefits. For example, your health may improve to the point where you arc no longer disabled, or like many people, you would like lo go back to work rather than depend on your disability benefits and you are successful in your attempt. Also, the law requires that we review your case from time to time to verify you are still disabled. We tell you if it is time io review your case, and we also keep you informed about your benefit status. You also should be aware that you are responsible for letting us know if your health improves or you go back to work. A few months after I started receiving my Social Security retirement benefit, my former employer offered to take me back. It's a great offer. Can I withdraw my retirement claim and reapply later to increase my benefit amount? m^rrr^rr-.T'.irr::.-■■'■mr—'-.—^—- SEEKING APPLICATIONS FROM VOLUNTEERS Social e . . ........... unexpected JllUrity undcrslands that begin receivini>' m,1> *'cUr. 'Tr >0U change your"! ,rcl|renient benefits. I you withdraw “' "“'KI. you bc. ablc h> reapolv at a c S°e>al Security claim and occur Within d-'le. This withdrawal must reti emen 12 months of your original rctirtmcnt an(J limited to one withdrawal d„rin>"|iretinlc. Keep in received0 Y",USt aU of 'hC bCne["S >0U X n ri,v?U Ma |eam more about the oneh n .fht Whcn you can postpone your SUl^. ^alsecurity.gov/retire2/ Applications may be obtained at the County Administration Office, 3rd floor of the Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings; or wwv/.barrywunty.orq under the tab: How do I apply for: A position on an Advisory Board or Commission and click on apply; and must be returned no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, August 24, 2020. Contact 269-945-1284 for more information. - __________ _____ . . . _______ 14 5004 request for bids Sale of Vehicles The City of Hastings will accept bids for the sale of two pickup trucks: Tmrk 1*202010- 2020 Dark Sky Metallic 2500 HD 4x4/6.6 Duramax Diesel/ 'rUCK 10 speed auto trans/ 2329.00 miles/VIN #1GT49MEY8LF186062/ Minimum bid $47,990 ■r T a novel rvn... 'vaiK- *n previous years, as held a Sunday ^/’IhC cburcb hai xometimes bY wvcral' tk^s ,5on,hl:soul11 lawn shaded village rt-nt • । ^ne l|mc 'vas during thc sen ice then"""1. "ilb ,hl: Pub,ic in'i,c<' Tbc o an , ' u ,ndudcd a» «>e usual elements used wl r Tice- Thi’ 'h»e. methods between r '1C cuncnt era with spacing for music n y use " keyboard not been th ."S Wllb sinSinE. which has sen-ic,. . L j'us'orn indoors in all the July Attend s'.tXCe CI" sound and live streaming, and r - • n?n£e<i from an infant to age 99 Rapids*' C0Cy *r°m ^crmontv‘^e nnd Grand nomm50’ 2018 Red 2500 HD 4x4/6.6 Duramax Diesel/ 6-speed auto kirJnc/18692.00 miles/ VIN# 1GT12SEY6JF132297/Municipal Title not Local historian makes history Elaine turns 100 County of Barry Carpet Replacement METAL ROOF PRICING ESTIMATE! The County of Barry is accepting sealed bids for Carpet Replacement at the Historic Barry County Courthouse. The closing date for the bid is September, 25, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. Bids shall be submitted to Barry County Buildings and Grounds, 220 W. State Street. Hastings, Ml 49058. To ob­ tain a copy of the invitation to bid, please visit our website al banYCfiunty.org or call (269) 945-1293. Specific ques­ tions regarding the Invitation to Bid may be directed to Tim Neeb, Building and Grounds Supervisor at (269) 838-7084. | ^^American Metal Roofs will be sold in “as-is” condition without any warranty. 10 vtew Ihls vehicle can be made by calling 269-945-2460 a"d 3“ ™ r. . i Mociinns reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive The City of Hastings ese^ awar(J )he bjd jn a mannef (ha( fhe Cj(y any irregularities in T deems to be in ib be t be received at the\°''IC r’est price and other factors considered. Bids will Hastings City ClerkJreasurer. 201 East State g 0(J AM on Thursdayi September 3, SS «“1 wsta"be °p““'snd ,eM *“*■ What’s the TRUE COST ? of a METAL ROOF? : Satellite mt and g Report For Your Home! BARRY INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL DISTRICT notice of vacancy, board of education N°tice is further qiven that any elector of the Barry ’"termed^ e’uooi District, comprising the Hastings Area school Systern nnd the Delton Kellogg Schools, may apply t0 the boardohJucation for consideration to f.ll said vacancy on the boam throToh August 31. 2020. The next regular elechon of lhe Mwill be In June 2021, at which time the *eal w,“ be nrS for a four-year term (the remainder o Boylo"S beginning July 1. 2021 and lasting unt.l Juno 30.2025 ^der regular election procedures ln,erested ',„rtnre are requested to send a letter of application «masons lor their interest, qualihcat.ons lor board san?3 n£Lh they believe they hold, relevant public se|vico, aPa0 elected oflico. public appointments. or b! Reeled or appointed boards, pubttc or pnvate, t0: 01 Aob6n Decker, President Salvage Title/Minimum bid $40,000 These superintendent Edmund Eccles. They were Gene Wright and James Knievela. What a rarity that there would be live new men when school opened. Thc superintendent was in the hospital when school opened, so Principal Millard fugle substituted for him m the first days. At lhe end of (wo years, three ot the new men left for other pursuits. Johnson. Eckstrom and Garlock remained for rhe rest of their teaching careers while Eckstrom moved to the principal’s office at the end of thc second year. Three semesters later, he moved again, this time to the superintendent’s office, where he remained 30 years. Mr. Eckstrom and wife Jewel now Jive in a Florida retirement home. He will be lH) Aug. 31. The Eckstrom children are in other states. k N°tice iS hereby given to the electors of the Barry Intermediate School District that a vacancy on the board of education of this district exists due the resignation of Mrs. Sharon Boyfe effective August 10. 2020. City of Hastings ,E,aine Carlock I'm trying to decide when to retire. Can Social Security hei ? Deciding when to retire is a personal choice and yOu shouId consider a number of factors, but wc can certainly help. First, take a few minutes and opcn a Social Security account at socialsecurity.gov/myaccount With a My Social Security account,you may access your Social Security Statement and estimate hlZIa* |R-ed Wlts *n tovvn Monday for a your retirement benefits at age 62. your full hin I Chtnrman Marian Durkee was on retirement age, and age 70. Also, we have hand after an absence of several months. several online calculators that can help you । d"'?Way ProJcct at the elementary decide when t0 retire. Our Retirement h. °° Washington Boulevard appears to I aT Estimator gives estimates based on jour c nearly finished, just in time for school to actual Social Security earnings record. cgin. The north driveway was completed last You may use the Retirement Estimator if vek as it makes its exit onto Second Street. you currently have enough Social Security Jt has new curbs. credits to qualify for benefits and you are not The missions committee of Central United currently receiving monthly benefits on your » cthodist Church met on Monday morning own Social Security record; are not age 62 or or its first meeting since February to allot older and receiving monthly benefits on unds for select local projects and to get • • another Social Security record; or are not updates from a church-supported missionary eligible for a pension based on work not m Zambia which has been affected by the covered by Social Security. coronavirus in a much smaller degree than You can find thc Retirement Estimator at Michigan. socialsecurity.gov/estimator. Also available at Last week’s papers carried items about thc socialsecurity.gov/ planners/ landmark birthdays of a retired Lakewood benefitcalculators.htm are several other teacher and the widow of another. Included in calculators that will show your retirement the list of birthdays it is notable that William benefits, as w ell as estimates of your disability Eckstrom could be included. He and Delos Help Elaine Garlock celebrate her and survivors benefit if you become disabled Johnson share a birth year, bom four days upcoming 100th birthday. or die. You may want to read or listen to our apart, both in West Michigan. Bill was born Two options to honor this special publication, “When to Start Receiving in Grant where his father was an onion farmer occasion: Retirement Benefits,” jit socialsecurity.gov/ near Hess Lake. His journey took him to • By sending a card with a special memory' pubs. Michigan State, a year of teaching in White or greeting for her August 27 birthday to: Cloud, two years in lhe U.S. Army, mostly in Elaine Garlock, do Central UMC, P.O. Box Vonda Van Til if the public affairs Kentucky where he met his wife, Jewel, most 485, Lake Odessa, Ml 48849. specialist for West Michigan. You hiay write ■ of two years back at MSU where he earned his • By attending her walk-through birthday her c/o Social StSfo^f Administration; 3045 .master.’s. degree and therva position as science- ..celebration _______________________ Sunday. Amu. 23. JJ020, between Knapp NE, Grand Rrtpids Ml 49525 or via ’teachef and basketball' coach fit Lake Odessa ’4-5 p.m. outdoors at the LUke Odessa Depot email to vondaMtnTil@ssa.gov. High School. Museum, 1117 Emerson Street, Lake Johnson had come lo LOHS in January Odessa. (Attendance may be limited lo 1956, months before Eckstrom and Garlock. comply with Executive Orders. Guests arc Another two men teachers had been hired by expected to wear masks and social distance.) The Barry County Board of Commissioners is seeking applications from volunteers to serve on the following Boards/ Commissions: tenlaJJiea.lt tLAllLhontyi 1 member Solid Waste Oversight Committee: 2 general public; 1 solid waste representative Classes ar • .students. Whar» o St*‘rt AuS- 24 for Lakewood like none other ever'm \h"01 "arl'' " hi;sanitation measure^ carclul sPacinBi-^t Siind .v . ’ dn? morc arc pJannt’dMethodist Church V f°r CcntraI Un‘{ed sen-ice on th > u W,! 1 ,ts olJl^oor worship Or via em •. ^kiin@barryisd org Tha boairi" 01 ' ot letters of application until 4:30 pm °n Augu??^ acc°? USPS delivery or personal delivery Thfi tear?'- 2020-v^ ,a ehgiblo applicants to schedule interview,? contact a • regular moeting on Tu^ *-h the W^Tegms m 830 am. at tire addfo,4S|lc, Ptembcr 8- ” rd Wln then choose a candidate by above,he term as described above Anyone^*'0' '°r L may contact the supenntendent at •he aom“'’-"1 quM^iSne number (269) 945-9545, ext. 1 ’'; K.t^barry.sd orep For Details Visit: AmericanMetalRoofs.com/PRICE DIESEL MECHANIC The Barry County Road Commission has an opening for a full time mechanic position. A high school diploma or general education degree (GED) with 5f years of mechanic experience is required, CDL A or ability to obtain one. Applications can be picked up at the Barry County Road Commission office (phone 269-945-3449) at 1725 W. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml between 6:00 AM & 4 00 PM. or website www.barrycrc.oig. A complete job description will be provided at the time of application. Starting hourly wage will bo S20.41 with advancement after one year of probation to $22.41. Tools and benefits including 401K provided, more information available upon request. The Burry County Road Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer, forms or documents are required, but all bids must be in No formal bidding forms be C|ear)y marked on the 0[jtside •­ Jane M. Saurman City Clerk/Treasurer Hh220 the all new www.hastingsbanner.com Yni lR SITE FOR LOCAL NEWS �housing, D oct or Universe When the clock strikes ‘Woof 7)r . Can dogs Tell time? Sam, 8, Indiana Dear Sam, Dogs might not use docks to tell time like humans do, but they are pretty good at following a schedule. They often know when it is lime for a walk, or dinner or sleep. A lot of animals rely on something called a circadian rhythm, a 24-hour cycle, to help them figure out when it's time to do different things. This system is sort of like an inner clock. Thai’s what 1 learned from my friend Lynne Nelson, a veterinarian and researcher at Washington State University who takes carc of lots of animals. The circadian rhythm system is con­ trolled by light. Humans’ ability lo sense light is part of the reason why they arc awake and alert during lhe day. ?\nd that’s why when it’s dark out. they go to sleep. Different animals can have slightly dif­ ferent circadian rhythms. Cals, for example, are diurnal animals. They go out al night and sleep a lol during lhe day. In a way. humans have helped dogs learn to tell lime. When humans train dogs, dogs learn how io interact with both their humans and lheir environment. “Dogs are training their brains based on different events, like owners coming home or when the food is going to come out.” Nelson said. She also told me about something called entrainment, or the interaction between an animal's circadian rhythm and lhe environ­ ment. You can think of it sort of like lhe way your stomach growls to signal ihat it is almost lime for lunch. “Dogs and cals know when they normal- ly eat. So, they start to gel hungry before then and start to bug their owners - even before they put the food out,’’ Nelson said. All these things are entrained based on certain genes that control the development of different traits, as well as wiring in our brains. Nelson said. “It all goes on in our brains and it hap­ pens without us even anticipating or know­ ing.” she added. Some animals not only have daily sched­ ules, but seasonal schedules. We see this in animals that migrate or hibernate. They get cues from nature in the form of daylight and temperature. As winter approaches, bears know it is lime to make their move toward hibernation because days get shorter and thc air gets cooler. Nelson is really curious about bears. She said bears are really good al knowing sched­ ules, including when it is the best time to get into people’s trash cans. They use clues from their environment, along with lheir circadian rhythms, lo know when humans will put out thc trash. Then they can look for a snack. “Animals that arc food-motivated, like dogs and bears, can become especially attuned to ‘telling lime’ because of special treats.” Nelson said. When dogs aren’t eating or playing, they spend a lot of their time sleeping. Dogs sleep for about 14 hours or so a day. No matter thc hour, it is almost always prime time for a nap. Dr. Universe Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University’s resident scientist and writer at Dr.Universe@wsu.cdu or visit her website, askdruniversecom. Thieves break into cash boxes for firewood /X total of S40 was taken from three cashboxes in Yankee Springs Township Aug. 2. A 57-year-old man in the 1000 block of Payne Lake Road called police at 8:36 a an. Aug. 2 to report the cashbox he used for selling firewood in his front yard was broken into. He lold the officer there were other cashboxes for wood in thc area. The officer found anoth­ er box in the same block had been opened, and a third cashbox in the 1000 block of Briggs Road also had been pried open. The case is closed with no further leads. Burglars hit residences on Oakleigh Drive Two kayaks and a pow er washer were stolen from three separate residences in the block of Oakleigh Drive on Gun Lake in the early hours of Aug. 10. A 74-year-old woman called to report her daughter’s kayak had been stolen. A neighbor had seen a man in dark clothes and glasses carry ing the kayak toward the road between 3:30 a.m and 4-30 a m Another neighbor reported his kayak also had been stolen. A third resident a 71-ycar old man. reported his power washer had been stolen from his deck. The case is inactive with no further leads, police said. ‘ Boat, generator and wood reported stolen A 31-year-old woman called police Aug. 11 to report items stolen from the 1000 block of Cherry Lane in Johnstown Township. The woman said she discovered Aug. 9 that items had been stolen from her husband’s truck and trailer, including a generator, wood and 12-foot aluminum boat. The case is inactive without further leads. from page t The Hastings Banner — Thurcrfdy, Augur! 20. 2020 — Page 9 as well. be great,’ j. “h’s C,t* Manager Jeyy f()r 3 a yC[^ ^y. “rVc been with the O |Jial there j?ntl lhe one thing fo' housing. rh,< „ Io< of thin„7"There fL n«>Ple ,o »»sCg0|ng <>n that wil* . ^newhem to ' these homes give^s that ”7 into." MSHDA h/ tome’ have e^vidnals purchasing the 5113,21 incomes betweenS8.5" Tn»at idea,” |ja . ••1 think it s ■J -This gives Mayor Dave Tossava sum- .. pie another option for lcSS n* less expensk Modular hon« . nn)ent, tOss e an<1 built in a controlled‘" ~eahou^>j. ft’s exciting f rbcs . being built in Barry Cou"^ the M It mcans somebody will l'J 'Wunity to %^n^f°siruiw is thc culmination 0 • year of work for several local le^ disr Baker’aid. * hcrc- rea> eS»s\^fSe,,ing ^homes as ,h“wS^XCa&Wejl,n,pcd Jetton board on it." Barry member Fred Jacobs satd. We re continuing to look. The need wffl ’ ■ m thc coming years, and there hasnl lxa.it an affordable housing project in ’0“ hem pan of Barry County for several yeaR. Gettys was jo,ned Baker, fanner Barry County Chamber of Commerce Director Travis Alden and the city s community development director Dan K,n§ in applying for thc MSHDA grant. "This was a small step toward filling a void in the housing market. King said. However, lhe group had only a week to fill out the application before traveling to Lansing Aug. 8 last year to interview with MSHDA staff and make lhe case for why Barry County should be one of 10 Michigan cities to pilot the housing program. "I think it speaks tolhe collaborative effort of all lhe groups in Hastings and the surrounding areas,” King said. "We knew the importance of this step.” They must hare said something right because within 24 hours, group members received a congratulatory call from MSHDA staff and were able to announce that Barry County would help pilot the program. The group made lhecase that Barry Couniy is growing, and housing is a key part of the growth. They presented lhe MSHDA staff with a snapshot of Ban) County. In 2013, the counts population was 59,076 and in 2018 lhe jopulation was more than 61,000 people, the prtsenlation group said. Based on the presentation, lhe cost of homes also has increased in Barr)’ County since 2015 - when 813 homes sold for an average price of S 161,025. In 2018, 858 homes sold for an average price of $201,116. The group also pointed out that Hastings is 48 minutes from downtown Kalamazoo, 34 minutes from downtown Battle Creek, 52 minutes from downtown Lansing and 40 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids. But incoming families don’t necessarily have lo commute to get to work. The group told MSHD/X staff the Barry County area offers a growing workforce with job opportunities al corporations such as Hastings Fiberglass Products, Bradford White Corporation. Spectrum Health Pennock and many others. The presentation also included cultural features unique to the county, such as the annual Barry-Roubaix bicycle race, the Thomappie Birding Trail an(j lhe ’many recreational lakes. “The MSHDA Mod program helps fund spec homes to be built in thc community in an effort to promote new construction,” Gettys said. “Most importantly, these homes arc designed to be affordable, safe, and help our families gain access to’homeownership - a critical first step to family stability ” BCF staff will work with MSHDA to Barry County Community Foundation President Bonnie Gettys (center) stands with Hastings Community Development Director Dan King and real estate agent Tracy Baker. Gettys holds a photo ol Ann Grambau, MSHDA housing specialist, during the MSHDA modular house groundbreaking Tuesday. identify sites, approve designs and formulate a modular building team for families interested in a home. Employees of organizations managing the grants are not eligible to purchase MSHDA Mod-related homes. "A key focus of economic developers is lo create a place that people want to live, work and play,” Barr> County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance President Jennifer Heinzman saic|. "Anytime additional residents are brought into our communities, it benefits the local economy. People living here will likely shop here, dine here, play here, and use all of the personal sen ice businesses here while adding to the vibrancy of lhe community. This project is a win for the entire community.” ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN 116015 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ROLL PARKWAY DRIVE ROAD IMPROVEMENT SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO; 2020-1 TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF ORANGEVILLE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN. OWNERS OF LAND WITHIN THE PARKWAY DRIVE ROAD IMPROVEMENT SPECIAL AS­ SESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 2020-1AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Township Supervisor and Assessor have prepared and filed in lhe office of the Township Clerk for public examination a special assessment roll covering all properties within the PARKWAY DRIVE ROAD IMPROVEMENT SPECIAL ASSESSEMENT DISTRICT NO. 2020-1benefitted by the proposed road improvement project, which project will include pav­ ing of the road, along with associated activities such as,but not limited to,grad­ ing and drainage work. The costs of the project are as shown on the estimate of costs on file with the Township Clerk. The assessment roll has been prepared for the purpose of assessing costs of the project within the aforesaid special as­ sessment district, as is more particularly shown on plans on file with the Town­ ship Clerk at the Township Hall, 7350 Linsey Road,Plainwell,within the Town­ ship. The assessment roll is in the total amount of $28,562. The costs,including administrative costs are proposed to be raised by a new special assessment. The assessment against each parcel in the special assessment district will be approximately $29.89 per foot of frontage and/or driveway access on Parkway Drive, for a period of five years, 2020-2024 inclusive. Additionally, the Township Board reserves the right to levy a lesser assessment in any year that there are more funds in the special assessment district fund that then amount needed. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Supervisor and Assessing Of­ ficer have reported to the Township Board that the assessment against each parcel of land within said District is such relative portion of the whole sum levied against all parcels of land in said District as the benefit to such parcel bears to the total benefit to all parcels of land in said District. Banner CLASSIFIEDS LL... The Hastings BANNER • 945.9554 /arm 'MONTH OLD Angus Bull to. Canfield Angus Farm. *•340-8072. ^RUSHER’S NOTICeT cs&Oe advcrti:;'*;' in 4 >.b.<ct to Ibc 1 - r Ho-'-.-'j; il Ri M. I4w Cm **■ cottcitheh male it i *•; - “wry pfcfcrtrxr. •*•*! fwed on **• Kx, hAnd>u*p. f.- or mar S u ..riintn-u-iur.. nuttft lodwfc* UiiiJri ! atvkr ..ith pwtnfa ,:r >CP; D !* * * * . : wunu’n Md [X.- | J**curfujy ,.f (hl!<frrn under IK , * sill not J* jJtrnixnx f -t real ? « >• of me h*. /•'or Sale lliisiiirw Services KASSON 10FT OAK Pool Table, excellent condition. $1,000.00 or OBO. 269-908­ MATT ENDSLEY, FABRL CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. 1654______________________ CARRON SPORT AIR Hock­ ey Table. $300.00 OBO. Phone 269-908-1654. Garage Sale 17th ANNUAL GARAGE SALE- Thurs.-Eri., Aug. 20lh21st, 2020,9,im-5pm, Sit., Aug 22nd, 9<tm-lpm. 4969 Thorn­ bird Dr., Middleville. Couch, futon, coffee table, books, side table, mens clothing (sin-xlg), womens clothing fam-ZX), lots BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging (269)818-7793 BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements, power washing. 269-320-3890. NOTICES SYNOPSIS Hastings Charter Tq^ at the hearing. Regular Meetly August 11, Meeting called to order at 7.oqd Six board members present, ni- Approved all consent agenda h^sent Generator installed Amend budget two categon’es Tabulator grant received Approved payment of bills Dept- reports received and Motion to adjourn 731 pm '''e Hespoctfully submitted, Anitas. Mennell-Cie* Attested to by Jim Brown - Supervisor 146131 *■« txrcby informed U*’’1 of misc. d ii. t1'. „•! . opporturpiy ftpon dncrimtraucrt Center M ft I ft- 45! her lelcphoK tntfnber fet PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Orangeville Township Board will meet at the Orangeville Township Hall, 7350 Lindsey Road, Plainwell. Michigan on Tuesday September 1, 2020 at 7:00p.m. for the purpose of reviewing the snecial assessment roll and hearing any objections thereto. The roll may bo examined al the office of the Township Clerk during regular business hours of regular business days until the time of the hearing and may further examined Call 269-9*5’9554tor HastinasB^^ails PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that an owner or party in interest,or his/ hpr aaent may appear in person at the hearing lo protest the special assess­ ment or may file his/her appearance and protest by letter before the hearing, Td in that event, personal appearance shall not be required. Any person obiprtinn to the assessment roll shall file his/rier objection thereto in writing with ♦hn Township Clerk before the close of the hearing or within such other time as he Township Board may grant. The owners or any person having an interest in ^l nroperty who protests in writing at or before the hearing may file a written anneal sPec,aI assessment with the State Tax Tribunal within 30 days after confirmation of the special assessment roll. Oranqeville Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and qXices to individuals with disab.lities at lhe hearing upon four (4) days’ notice to the Orangeville Township Clerk at the address below Mel Risner, Clerk Orangeville Township 7350 Lindsey Road Plainwell, Ml 49080 (269) 664-4522 �Page 10 — Thursday, August 20. 2020 — The Hastings Cannot Delton school board hears in-person learning concerns Houtrow’s concents during thc second Ixwd Luke Fhmcheck comment opportunity. "If we thought anyone would be at risk of Staff Waiter “I believe there's an elephant in lhe nx>m dying, we would not move forward with this we have to discuss." Bob Houtrow told fellow plan." Corlett said. “I do not think that the Delton Kellogg school board members health department, the teaching staff or any­ Monday. would want that." The elephant, he said, is safety concerns as one"When we lost a student to suicide last far as sending students back to sch<x>I in per­ year, it was probably my worst day in educa­ son this fall. tion," Corlett said. "We’ve lost a student "How many deaths arc wc w illing to toler­ before due to inclement roads - that was ate as a board of education?’* he asked them. before 1 was here. ... I can feel lhe residual "1 personally can’t tolerate any." In bringing kids into school buildings - and effects of that loss. "We take it very seriously." bringing potentially infected people into the Treasurer Sarah Austin said she plans to buildings - the district may be giving the send her son, who will be entering his junior nos el corona virus, CO VID-19. a center where year, to scIkxjI in person. it could flourish, Houtrow said. "1 don’t want anything to happen to my "Whether we lose children or faculty or boy." Austin said. "It took me forever to .say staff or Grandma or Grandpa or Mom or what 1 was going lo do. I have to just pray and Dad," Houtrow said, "all of that has to be discussed before we choose how to go back lo be confident that we’re going to take menschool. How many people are we willing to Board President Kelli Martin said she plans lose? to send all four of her children lo school in lhe "Every one of us carries that weight - all fall. She said she is confident that is the right of us." Board members sat silently; they did not decision for her family. Vice President Jim McManus said he, too. address Houtrow *s comments until thc end of plans to send his Uth-grade daughter to lhe meeting. As Houtrow made his comments, and as school, but he noted that online learning may board members listened, they were sitting in be the best option for parents who have great­ the elementary school library surrounded by er concerns regarding the spread of CO VIDbooks awaiting elementary-age students who 19. "I’m not going to be held hostage by a are scheduled to return Sept. 8. His remarks came during the first board virus. Wc have to live." McManus said. "But comment portion of the meeting. if anybody even has an inkling - after school Superintendent Kyle Corlett addressed starts - that they wish lo go online because they aren’t cOrnf . . absolutely wish them to d0 (|) n.iH • everything to make them sin. -Received Ironi Corlett. |k. the district ls faci numbers and t|K. ‘ "'e <hs ri t include a strong )llnd n.-turn-to-schoof [“nd {<7he district address <lf ,hc challenges joining enrollment ,inlv of stale funding. s "uengths. he said, ba|ance and a strong W’ -Accepted thc ' nl of elementary paraprofesstonai N..wnian and Linda nniedal, l,igh sehooIp’ ^professional Kelly >oder and volunteer athletic secretary Jean Gemrich. ‘ -Approved Wndi 5 j 8,750 to be paid to Gabndge and Company of Grand Rapids for the upcoming sch^HearS audit. -Heard an update from Corlett who said a community member wrote a letter asking thc board to reconsider h iving a b,ack Panthcr as a mascot. Board member Jess Brandli clari­ fied that the mascot is the Delton Panthers, not the Delton Black Panthers. But there is no consistent panther mascot in the school’s branding, Brandli added. McManus suggested the concerned individual ask other residents in the district to see if there is any interest in changing lhe mascot. -Accepted the resignation of elementary special education teacher Deann Grabemeyer. -Approved a resolution saying the district would offer online classes to all kindergarten through 12th-grade students. Draft of Michigan forest plan ready for review and comments Keeping Michigan’s forests abundant, healthy and flourishing for generations is the goal of the new 10-year forest action plan from the Department of Natural Resources. The plan is now available in draft form online, with comments welcome. The plan highlights critical needs and pri­ orities for managing Michigan's 193 million acres of public and private forest land, including: -Controlling invasive plants and insects that could devastate certain types of trees. -Ensuring that city landscapes have plenty of healthy trees. -Prdrrfdting communication among the DNR and others, including private landown­ ers. conservancies, federal forests and inter­ est groups. -Considering the current and future effects of climate change on Michigan's forests. -It was created with collaborative input from a wide range of interested parties, including rural and urban nature advocacy groups, foresters in private practice, univer­ sity researchers and representatives from the forest products industry. "We’re looking at a plan that gets every­ body on the same page regarding a wide range of priorities." said Jeff Stampfly. act­ ing chief of the DNR’s Forest Resources Division, which produced the Forest .Action Plan. This comprehensive, coordinated plan helps prioritize and direct federal grant funds and slate and other resources used to con­ serve, manage and enhance the benefits pro­ vided by Michigan's extensive forests as well as addressing threats to them. Each state must submit a Forest Action Plan lo the U.S. Forest Service every' 10 years to be consid­ ered for federal funding. Michigan’s new plan i% due by the end of December. Though rhe DNR’s Forest Action Plan likely will appeal most to those directly involved with forest minagenicnl and plan­ ning. lhe department'encourages anyone interested in the longjemi health and sus­ tainability of Michutyn forests to review it. ’’ The draft lore^Action Plan is available at ForestPlanComment$<n Michigan.gov. Comments should be submitted by Oct. 12. Economic Development Alliance awarded $3©@P©®© Brownfield grant Luke Froncheck Staff Writer The Barry County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority just received some extra money to help local businesses. The $300,000 brownfield grant from the United States Environmental Protection Agency is to be distributed over three years. Jennifer Heinzman, president of lhe Barry' County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance announced Tuesday. Business owners may apply for up to $10,000 in funding from lhe Brownfield Redevelopment Authority. If approved, own­ ers then work in conjunction with lhe local Brownfield Redevelopment /Authority and thc alliance. Thc grant allocates funds toward revitaliza­ tion of properties such as industrial facilities, gas slations, auto repair operations, dry clean­ ers. auto salvage and junkyards, asbestos in buildings, and underground storage lank sites. Some people would turn away from proper­ ties that have been contaminated through nature, City of Hastings Community Development Director and BR/\ board mem­ ber Dan King said Wednesday. If some of the soft costs like environmental testing can be paid for through grant money, the return on investment for property owners will go up. he said. "Il does wonders for ail the communities City of Hastings Position Available: Police Officer The Hastings Police Department, an equal opportunity employer, is seeking qualified applicants for a full time Police Officer position. The primary responsibilities of this position include maintaining lhe high quality of life for all City residents, businesses and visitors. This will be accomplished not only by our proactive approach to enforcing the state laws and city ordinances, but also through our high-quality customer service. Qualifications: ’ Must be 21 years of age * Possess an Associates degree * Be MCOLES licensed or eligible to be licensed * Excellent writing and communication skills * Must pass an extensive background investigation Please submit resume and cover letter to Chief Jeff Pratt 201 E. State St. Hastings Ml 49058 or jpratt@hastingsmi.org. Resumes will be accepted through August 31, 2020. , Jeff Pratt Chief of Police with access to the funding.’* King said. More than 100 new jobs have been created, and over $11 million in new private invest­ ment on 70-plus acres of land has been real­ ized as a result of the EPA’s investment in the community. Heinzman wrote in an informa­ tion flyer. The money can be used for Phase 1 or Phase 2 environmental site assessments, including soil, ground water and soil gas sam­ pling. baseline environmental assessments, asbestos and other hazardous materials assess­ ments, and site cleanup planning. Owners interested in Brownfield grant funds should call Heinzman. 989-560-5786, or email Jennifer^'mibarry.com. City of Hastings Position Available: School grassing Guard This part-time position assists in tra^'0 control at assigned intersections to school children walking to ana from school. A regularly assigned position as well as a substitute position are available Ability to relate to children and the genera1 public and the ability and willingness to follow direction are required. a Will be employed by the Hact.nns Area School System but supervS 9bv the Hastings City Police DepartrS Current minimum starting wage is $g ”"1, r hour with attendance bonus annually Complete job description anrt indication form are available on request d”. ,„ctinqs Police Department, 201 Jrot? L St.. Hastings, Michigan 49058 fi744Position is open until filled. <Jt)9-940' Jason Ue Boone. 45, of Hastings. found guilty of domestic violence in Yankee Springs Township Jan. 28 as a third-time offender. He was recently sentenced by Judge Michael Schipper to .serve 57 lo 120 months in prison and ordered to pay $998 in fines and costs. A charge of assault with a dangerous weapon, a knife, was dismissed. In a second case, which also occurred Jan. 28 in Hastings, Boone pleaded no contest to a charge of attempted unlawful imprisonment as a habitual offender and was sentenced by Judge Schipper to concurrent term of 38 to 120 months in prison and $998 in fines and costs. Three charges of unlawful imprison­ ment and a charge of operating a vehicle on West State Street with no license were dis­ missed. Boone has prior convictions for possession of a handcuff key while in custody Aug. 8, 2004, in Pasco Couniy, Florida; burglary April 18. 1997, in Pasco County; battery of a law enforcement officer Aug. 4, 2004, in Pasco County; aggravated battery March 15. 2004. in Pasco County; Feb. 28.2018. assault with a dangerous weapon in Barry County. He was held in contempt of court for his behavior during his hearing and sentenced lo serve 93 days in jail prior to his prison sentence. Nuthan Michael Elliott, 27, of Hastings, w as found guilty of domestic violence as a third-time offender in an incident that occurred June 6 in Hastings Township. He was sen­ tenced by Judge Schipper to 180 days in jail, with credit for iw-o days served, and assessed $998 in fines and costs. He was ordered lo serve 24 months of probation, with a supervi­ sion fee of S30 a month. Elliott has prior convictions for assaulting a pregnant woman Jan. 12. 2016; and for attempting to make a false report Aug. 13,2014, in Barry County. Bradley Dean McKelvey, 31, of Nashville, was found guilty of possession of the con­ trolled substance methamphetamine May 8 in Nashville. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper as a fourth-time offender to sene 36 to 480 months in prison and pay $998 in fines and costs. In a second case, McKelvey was convicted for the possession of the controlled substance, methamphetamine. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper as a fourth-time offender to serve 36 to 480 months in prison and pay $998 in fines and costs. The two sentences arc to be served consecutively. Charges of fourth-degree fleeing a police officer, assaulling/resisting/obstructing a police officer and operating a motor vehicle with his license was suspended were dismissed. McKelvey has poor convictions for. break­ ing and entering a building with intent May 14, 2007, in Barry County; possession of a controlled substance Dec. 12. 2014, in Calhoun Couniy; operating a vehicle while intoxicated causing serious injury Aug. 27, 2015, in Barry- County; possession of meth­ amphetamine Aug. 27,2015, in Barry' County. Linsey Marie Nolette. also known as Linsey Marie Fowler, 36, of Holt, was found guilty of two counts of indecent exposure in Woodland Township on or about June ^-20, 2019. She was sentenced by Judge Schipper to three days in jail, with credit for one day served, and ordered to pay $375 in fines and costs. Nolette was placed on probation lor 12 months. Two charges of third-degree criminal sexual conduct were dismissed. Michael Allen Northrop. 25, of Kalamazoo. was found guilty of second-de­ gree home invasion and iarceny of a firearm Feb. 3 or Feb. 4 in Barry Township. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to 180 days in jail on the home-invasion count and 90 days in jail on the larceny count, with credit for 26 days served. Northrop was ordered to pay $1566 in fines and costs and serve 24 months on probation. Charges of receiving and con­ cealing a stolen firearm, larceny in a building and a second charge of the larceny of a fire­ arm were dismissed. Paul Andrew Pasma. 52, of Wayland, was found guilty as a third-time offender of oper­ ating a vehicle while impaired on M-179 in Yankee Springs Township Jan. 7. He has prior convictions for operating a vehicle under thc influence of alcohol Oct. II. 1991, and Aug. 12, 1992, both in Kent County. He was sen­ tenced by Judge Schipper to serve two days in jail, with credit for two days served. Pasma was ordered to pay $398 in fines and costs and serve 60 months on probation, including a supervision fee of $30 a month. He win sen'e three years of home deteniion, with soberiink and GPS tether, leaving home for work and doctor appointments only. David Allen Slater, 38, of Cedar Springs, was found guilty of attempting to assault, resist or obstruct a police officer and mali­ cious destruction of a building resulting in damages of less than S200 at 1212 W. State St.. Hastings, Feb. 27. He was ordered by Judge Schipper to pay $648 in fines and costs. Charges of malicious destruction of police property - a jail cell door and a pair of leg iron restraints - and assaulting, resisting and obstructing a police officer were dismissed. Jeffrey Lynn Smith, 55. of Hastings, was found guilty as a habitual offender of operat­ ing a vehicle while he was intoxicated Nov. 16, 2019, in Hope Township. He was sen­ tenced by Judge Schipper to home detention for three years, with a Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitoring tether required, and ordered lo pay $998 in court costs and fines. Smith has prior convictions for operat­ ing a vehicle while he was impaired July 21, 1993, in Hastings; and unlawful bodily alco­ hol content March 27, 1996, in Hastings; operating a vehicle under the influence of liquor May 30, 1996; operating a vehicle while intoxicated Nov. 21,2008; and operat­ ing a vehicle while impaired March 7, 2013. Also, he was convicted of attempted larceny in a building Feb. 11.1983; larceny in a build­ ing Feb. 19. 2003. and April 21, 2004, and operating a vehicle while he was intoxicated, Nov. 21.2008, all occurring in Barry County. MMHS: Michigan families urged to embrace ‘power to protect” Vaccines are proven lo protect people from serious diseases at ever) age. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services urges residents to talk to health care providers to ensure they and their families are up to date on all recommended vaccines. National Immunization Awareness Month, observed throughout August, highlights the importance of getting all recommended vaccines throughout life. "Vaccinating on time and following lhe 1U.S. Centers for Disease Control’s] recommended schedule is the best protection against serious diseases like measles, hepatitis A. whooping cough, cancers caused by HPV and influenza." said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health at MDHHS. "We have the power to protect not only ourselves, but our entire community, when we vaccinate on lime, every lime." Maintaining routine vaccinations is critical during the COVID-19 pandemic. On-lime vaccinalions proiecl individuals and communilies from vaccine-preventable diseases and outbreaks and can help reduce the burden on lhe health care system. This allows Michigan to conserve medical resources in case they are needed to care for people with COV1D-I9. According to data from the Michigan Care Improvement Registry, as of June, only 53.9 percent of Michigan children 19 through 35 months ol age were fully immunized with recommended vaccines. MDHHS encourages Michiganders to visit lhe CDC’s interactive Vaccine Guide, which provides information on the vaccines recommended during pregnancy and throughout a child’s life. /\dults 19 and older can lake lhe CDC’s Adult Vaccine Assessment Tool lo find out which vaccines they may need. Routine vaccination is an essential preventive care service for children, adolescents and adults, including pregnant women, that should not be delayed because of lhe COVID-19 pandemic. Il is important that all Michiganders are up-to-date on recommended vaccines, Khaldun said. Parents should contact their children’s health care providers to find out what vaccines their children need, schedule an appointment, and discuss lhe safely measures put in place to protect patients. If insurance coverage has been disrupted during this unprecedented time, or there is concern about being able to afford childhood vaccines, there is a program thai can help. The Michigan Vaccines for Children program provides vaccines for children up lo 18 years old who arc Medicaid-eligible, uninsured, underinsured, American Indian or Alaska Native. Parents may contact lheir health care providers or local health department for more information. Health departments remain active with COVID-19 response and may provide limited services al this time; individuals should call ahead for details. During August. MDHHS is joining Franny Strong Foundation, with whom it partners with on the I Vaccinate campaign, and other organizations across the nation to spread thc message that vaccines are one of the safest ways to protect health and lower risks for certain diseases and cancers. Newborn babies Ry Ice Ann Covey, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on August 4, 2020 to Marias Hensley and Nathan Covey of Dowling. Thad Munroe Davis, bom al Spectrum Health Pennock on August 5. 2020 to Angelica Rowley and Wesley Davis of Barry Couniy, Evelyn May (.’asey, bom al Spectrum Health Pennock on August 5,2020 to Kali Casey and Aaron Casey of Delton. . . , , • • , • . t . » . �jUFtOR, continued from station, before she happened to sec a for'page 1--------------’y-e crttisct and stopped to U.|l an officer l'h?thappeI'CiL an "llice, fhe jur>’ ,n on thaL -s me ,0°"'he juror They were more convinced by the testimof some of the victims. n'.«You could tell a couple of them were still ly emotionally raw." the juror said. Come witnesses wept while as they recalled event' ol that day. lNQne ol them was Tracy Schisser. who was irising wllh hcr son in.thc Passcn&er seat she stopped at the intersection and saw *hal thought was Burnett shooting \xiood in the back. She said she heard thc nshots Schisser told the jury that she saw rvGood stand back up. and put his hands up. drove away after Burnett appeared to 'p^int a gm' at them, and her son urged her lo ^^■hc intensity of her emotion lent credibility p her testimony in thc eyes of some of lhe ^You could definitely see she was still aboul it - and it was 14 months later,” the iuror . Tier testimony, and the physical evidence al the scene, made it a straightforward decision for lhe jury lo find Burnett guilty of unlawful imprisonment nnd fust-degree murder in DeGood's case. ‘‘That was pretty quick,” the juror said. Once those charges were decided, the jury came back to Gary Peake, and thc discussion of first- or second degree murder took up about three-quarters of the seven hours they spent in deliberations, the juror said. Tlie jury knew its decision on the charge would not have a significant impact on Burnett’s sentence. Since they had already rendered one verdict of first-degree murder. Bumeit would be sen­ tenced to life in prison either way. But lhe jury' felt it was important to get it right. "For quite a few people, it was the principle of it. not the expedience,” the juror said. "It was more of the principle of getting it right than it was getting an outcome." After sitting through seven days in court, the jury members were in for the long haul and they were glad not to have been one of the two alternate jurors who were randomly selected for dismissal before the delibera­ tions. "Nobody really wanted to be those two jurors, because you were very invested at that point." (he juror said. For quite a fewpe^ it was the principle Of®, not the expedient't, It was more ofthe pg' ofgetting it right th^'P/e was getting an outco^11 Whin made Peake differ'-''11 lr<>^ was Bumeit was theon[y sllry,viii(> 7oificrs the crime, and he was" I ■' 'cry c - '[nts, ( In fact, the juror said his te^lc „n'.° damaeed his case. only "If he hadn’t testified• he sv0(jJ(j gotten murder one.” the junjr ’kij Burnett testified that he had |a his memory as lo what happened ||,A^aPs the shixitings. In some cases, /jc day op remember specific details* but ^,rt1ed lo no memory of other events tror^ ,/^utcly That aspect of liis testimony day, credibility with thc jury. *ed his “Tlierv were too many *nconsiste • juror said. “It didn’t make sense the Il led the jury to believe that ' deliberately hiding details about thy e,t "’ns that day, the juror s;ud, which °f rioubt his claim of .self-defense. ro “I think, as a whole, the jury lhat he did testify.” SUrPrised While they deliberated, the ju lhe audio from Erb’s dashbo^ rcPlayed < ■' ■ .* ^^iatcly Buniett testified he had gOne b house for a friendly visit, and askga ,Pca^e's AK-47. which Pe;ike had l)orro^ his was looking for the rifle in hi^ Bumeit shot him six times and kil|P > ?' w^en ^him. r ..i.» Fronchcck VrftnchrckLuke Keep finding a way to deal with tough decisions Residents drop their recycling in the dump­ Staff Writer The Prairieville Township recycling may find a new source. The township board.ledby a newly formed recycling committee, discussed options to continue recycling in the township during its Aug. 12 meeting, which was held outdoors. During its July 8 meeting, the board moved to suspend its recycling program effective Sept. I, citing financial concerns. But within a week of that decision, six township residents formed the Residential Recycling Committee to explore options for continuing recycling in thetownship. Members include towmgp supervisor Jim Stonebumcr, and residents Mary Meagher, Mary Ann Devries, Ramie Alineda, Mary Kinney and Cheryl VandcrVcen. The plan currently being considered is to pay Bernie’s Hall Away Inc. of Plainwell a flat rate of $5500 to continue bringing a oneyard dumpster Fridays twice a month until March, Dev ries told the board last Wednesday. Recycling committee members recorded data from the recent July 25 recycling day as township residents dropped off their materi­ als. Il was surprising how few summer resi­ dents were recycling, Devries said. “Another surprise was wc had no nonresi­ dents try and recycle.” she said. We have no way of knowing if the) stayed away because identification was being checked or if the number was lower lhan wc thought.” "Dad, can I make a craft.” my 5-ycar-old Lake Odessa Fairgrounds, and less so daughterSlclla asked as I finished cleaning up Thursday when I visited practice to snap some the kitchen late one morning last week. photos of the unique start lo the 2020 season. “Sure,” I said. Walking away from the courts at lhe end of She pulled an Amazon box out of the my visit was the first time I felt that lump of recycle bin and started hacking away at it with worry- in my throat about the Jail high school a pair of scissors Before too long she had a sports, small rectangular-shaped piece of cardboard. I’m probably a bit closer lo lhe Lakewood She wrote her name, "mom” and a brother’s volleyball program lhan many other of the name in purple marker on one side, addressing local teams, mostly because I gel to spend it like a postcard. She asked for help with each November with the Vikings as they dad and her other brother’s name. traverse lheir way through the state tournament Then she flipped the card over and asked after the rest of the area’s teams have typically for help with what she wanted to write on the finished up their fall seasons. I would not other side. I wrote her message on a piece of want lo tell Sophie Duils and Aubrey paper for her to transcribe onto her cardboard. O’Gorman that they’re not going to get a Her version came out something like this senior volleyball season, in the same way I “IAMSTILLALIILE wouldn't have wanted to tell a basketball SCAREDTOGOTO player lhe season was suddenly over, or a KINDERGARTEN. softball player or a high jumper that lheir STELLA" spring season wouldn’t even have a chance to “How did you not cry when she asked you begin. that.” my wife asked when I showed her the Sports are supposed lo be emotional al the postcard. end of the season, not at lhe beginning. To tell I did a little, in the same way MHS'AA lhe truth. I’m a little surprised we’ve gotten Executive Director Mark Uyl did during his this close lo September with the MHSAA still recorded video that accompanied last week’s planning for the possibility of swimming and announcement that the 2020 fall high school volleyball indoors. football season is being postponed to the So. what do we do now that these hard spring of 2021. decisions are being made? We do the best wc "Some would say that this really doesn’t can. If you’re a kindergartner getting on lhe hit home, that those of us who are bus for the first lime you put your mask on, administrators and leaders often make you try not lo put your mouth on anything decisions without kids in mind, and I can tell y ou’re not supposed to, you meet your teacher, you that in ihis case, the exact opposite is and make some friends and improve your true,’’ Uyl said. “I am not only here speaking technique with your scissors and your crayons with you today as the director of the MHSAA, in your classroom for as many days as you but as someone who is a parent of a senior can, even if you are a little scared by lhe football player. We have done everything newness of it all. If you’re a kindergartner Mykala Rose Pennington, Hast; possible to try and find that pathway forward starling up the school year at home, you meet Bryant Guy Higgins, Hastings. n^s and for our football kids this fall." your new teacher and buddies on the Sarah Marie Olson. Denver m His voice caught when he got to the reveal Chromebook or lhe iPad, and work on those Geoffrey Martin Roth. Denver, Co ° and that he is the parent of a senior football player. scissor and crayon skills al lhe"kitchen table. I imagine he felt like he was speaking directly If you’re a high school football player, Jonathan Walter Bowers, jv. Michelle Maere Levy, Delton. °n and lo his son as he spal out thc words, “we have you do push-ups, you do sit-ups. you flip a done everything." before his voice found its tractor tire in the yard. 1 saw Maple Valley Andrew Philip Beghou, Chicago Lauren Elizabeth Little, Chicago, ])_’ 1L and varsity football coach Many Marlin strength again. Scott Earl Studebaker,Temper^ ’ encouraging his players to go to cross-country Thc world has always been lull of hard decisions, but there seem to be more and more practice in hopes of boosting that program and Shelley Annette Bcssey,Temper-n e’ VA. ^nccviilc. of them lo make every day now. Even these and having football players show up in better shape in the spring. Emerald I^igh Norris. Hasting® COVlD-19-related questions are getting Evan Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ soccer coach Joe Terry'. Madison Heights. harder and harder to answer. It went from trying to decide if we needed to go to the grocery store or if we could hold out a couple days and make it two full weeks. Now the questions are: Do we send our three kids to school for face-to-face learning with groups of their classmates? Are we going to let our kindergartner's first school experience be fighting with a Wi-Ei hotspot in the basement instead of meeting a new Ir.end and walking hand-in-hand down the hallway to her '’dTw have to postpone the high school football season across thc state of MkIu -u ■ Do we have to postpone or caJ” sports? Wednesday afienioo't- hit student-athletes across the s a <waiting to find out if they loccer, volleyball or a^e * . Lakewood vollevball yarstty coach (,pIimistic sameron Rowland > < fuesday. before precuces t.^^^ girls on the sand volley ■ • k (1)r • Prairieville Township accepting donations for recycling program by Brett Bremer ■■ where Burnett had been held nfter his arrest. Tho Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 20, 2020 — Page 11 On the tape, lhe jury heard Burnett say he had his 9 mtn pistol.his 12-gaugc shotgun and challenges due to the social distancing guide-. lines, the juror said, and they did not feel the I he needed his z\K. process put them al significant risk of catch-/*’ “Right after that, he said he was going to kill them all,” the juror recalled. “Il seemed ing the virus. “Most of us didn’t have anything to com­ very intentional.” pare it to anyway.” the juror said. . •_ • Thc police also found Burnett’s pockets ’lhe most apparent difference for the jury ’ were filled with reload rounds for the 9 mm was thc use of masks. The jurors, public and shotgun. “AU of that started adding up lo makc it attendees, Burnett and some attorneys wore masks, although the attorneys took them off easier (to reach a verdict).’' the juror said. while questioning witnesses. The lape also changed the jury’s verdict on “I was very happy that the witnesses were another Charge, the one involving Joseph Powell, whose vehicle lire was shot out by removing lheir masks.” the juror said. The jury was quickly able to figure out who Bumcll after Powell stopped at the intersec­ in the public gallery were the family members tion. Burnell was charged with attempted of thc deceased, but they could not see their . murder, although the jury initially had settled , on a lesser charge of assault. The juror said expressions because of the masks. Burnett ’ s mask also made it difficult for lhe that charge led to a fair amount of debate jury to sec his reaction to witness testimony. between thc jurors. “It was basically just a set of eyes with no . But after re-listening to thc audio from the reaction, ” the juror said. police car, thc jurors noted that, when Bumeit The juror praised Schipper for being up. was asked how many people he shot, he said three to five. That led them to believe Burnett front with lhe jury on the precautions the , court was taking due to CO VID-19, and mak-, . was shooting directly al Powell. ing the process as smooth as possible. After the jury announced its verdict, Barry "Judge Schipper docs a very good job of County Judge Michael Schipper dismissed the public attendees and attorneys, so he could making thc jurors feel comfortable.” the juror, said. "He made an inconvenient experience as have a few minutes alone with thc jury. , “Thc jury had asked the judge why he convenient as possible." While thc jury was “extremely serious" (Burnett) had taken the stand," the juror said. The judge explained that since Burnett’s attor­ about the process, the juror said the verdicts ultimately weren’t difficult. «< neys were arguing self-defense, the only per­ "I think for most of the jurors, it was a fair-. son who could speak to that claim was ly easy decision,’’ the juror said. “It was a Burnett himself. pretty straightforward case." . Schipper had previously explained to the Despite thc grim nature of the case, the jury the precautions lhe court staff were tak­ ing due to COVID-19. and after the trial the juror said the trial process was “a very posi­ judge asked if the court should do any thing tive experience." “Il came down to: This is really important,” . differently regarding jury safety, moving for­ the juror said. “You see it on TV. You hear _ ward. about it. But to see it all lhe way through gives The jury did not experience any significant you a new respect for the justice system." .• Alan Mabie said he had a few football players make the trek from lhe practice fields on the west side of lhe school grounds over to lhe soccer field on the east side of M-43. and he welcomed (he depth. It would take some lime for a guy who has never picked up a racket, but I’d love to see a football player or iwo lum into tennis players by October. Tennis has been our socially distant sport of choice lhe past few weeks. No AYSO soccer. No Hammerheads swim practice. We won’t have football this fall, and nothing can make up for that, but there are opportunities to slay active and lo continue to compete. Stella’s penmanship is better than her forehand al the moment, but one way or another, in the classroom, at home, on ||le tennis court ar the Para^ ^th will be Ix-ttcr before the fall is over. Hopefully. a lol of things will he belter before the fall is over. Malea Paige Jiles, Middfevi|| Zechariah Miles Burel. Shelby. c and Benjamin Russell Vandenboss, U:. and Samantha Sue Frisbie. Middle^leville Lindsey Ann Standler, Hasting.. J. Adams, Hastings. Frank A. Look, Woodland and j0. Christie, Woodland. ster. Devries said if cardboard had not been separated, lhe bin would have been full by 9:30 a.m. The recycling committee is currently accepting donations lo help pay for lhe $5,500 flat rate lo continue recycling in lhe township. Board members approved a request to make an account for donations toward thc program. They also voted lo allow township employees to collect donation money and let the recycling committee use the township parking lot for thc program. In other business, the board: -Approved hiring of MJ Flick for the Prairieville Township Fire Department, approved the promotion of firefighter Brian Uridge and accepted thc resignation of fire- i ; ’ ’« 1 j ‘ ; . • ' . , • . / 1 Enjoy the benefits of high-quality, high-volume printing facility. Whatever the size of your project, we have just the right equipment to handle your needs. • COPIES -BLACK & WHITE OR FULL COLOR • PROFESSIONAL BINDERY • LARGE FORMAT PRINTING • PRESENTATIONS • MANUALS & BOOKLETS • LAMINATION . FOLDING Iravis • GRAPHIC DESIGN SERVICE Elame . MAILING SERVICES Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ails fighter Nick Hammond. -Excused treasurer Judy Pence from the meeting for medical reasons. -Approved a resolution authorizing a grant application for an absentee ballot counting board tabulator. -Approved putting three millage renewals on the November ballot, including fire protec­ tion to levy 0.9559 mills for four years until 2024, raising an estimated $170,729 in the first year, police protection to levy 0.8174 mills for four years until 2024. raising an estimated $145,992 in the first year, and a road improvement request to levy 0.9087 mills for four years until 2024, raising an estimated $162,298 in the first year. -Approved payment of bills totaling $55,880. COPIER fay the casePAPERS*r for only * J50 1351 N M 43 Hwy Hastings, Ml 49058 GruphlcM i (269) 945-9105 www.j-adgraphics.com I �Bill porter Classic alters forl!J?* for chance to help local charitie Bretl »nnltr li sports Ed,,(ir 11 K a u . . Bill Porter Memorial Ch"ri|y «<>|f Ihi’ >car' !:ivi"K golfers ;,nd .""•-■ndtes even W»e limc ,ry and ’“lp local chari(jc than f011I5()n>es doubling up on the n holcs on the cotuse al The legacy at "’'""lb. the 16th Annual Bill Porter Memonai CJ dojf classic is planning J,lsl “bout 20 tea™ for its shotgun start Friday Sponsors had first dibs on the Fnda-V outim, snots but to keep crowds to a Barry County children’s healthcare service nurse Diane Slocum (left) speaks with Rhonda Lundquist, a Delton Kellogg school nurse, during a pop-up COVID-19 testing event next to Spectrum Health Pennock Urgent Care Tuesday. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) Management, Barry-Eaton District Health Department, and the Barry County Chamber of Commerce partnered to make the event possible. Suma said. . Test results will be provided to the 58 indi­ viduals four days after lhe event, Saturday Aug. 22, in a MyChart category through the Spectrum Health app. Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 will receive a phone call from health depart­ ment staff. The event was considered a test-run, and although Marzolf said he wasn’t sure if a.sim­ ilar event would be held a near Spectrum Health Pennock Urgent ('are, he said hospital and health department officials are looking al hosting similar events in the area. HOPE TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE NOTICE OF INTENT (POSSIBLE) TO USE A VIRTUAL PLATFORM FOR PUBLIC HEARING TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF HOPE TOWNSHIP. BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Hope Township Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a meeting and public hearing on Thursday, September 10” at 6:30 p.m. in the Hope Township Hall, 5463 South M-43, Hastings, Michigan 49058 within the Township, to consider the following variance request: Alan Adyniec wishes to construct a 24’ x 24’ garage within the required side yard setback area on parcel (08-07-280-005-00) located at 5607 Saggio Road, Hastings, Ml 49058. The Hope Township Zoning Ordinance requires that buildings and struc­ tures be set back 20 feet from the side lot line on lots in the RL, Residential Lake zoning district. The applicant has proposed that the garage be located 10 feet from the side lot line; thus, a dimensional variance of 10 feet is requested. A copy of the Hope Township Zoning Ordinance and the application is available for review at the Hope Township Hall, 5463 S. M-43 Hwy, Hastings, Michigan 49058, during regular business hours. The Hope Township Zoning Ordinance is | also accessible at www.hopsjtwp.^m. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Zoning Board of Appeals intends to hold its I meeting in person at the Township Hall, as may be allowed by the State of | Michigan subject to applicable Executive Orders. In the case that Executive Orders 2020-160 and 2020-153 are not lifted or otherwise amended, the Zoning Board of Appeals may hold its meeting (including public hearing) electronically, in accordance with Executive Order 2020-154 or a subsequent Order in order to limit in person government activities, to protect critical infrastructure workers to the extent possible, and to observe applicable Executive Orders. If the meet­ ing is held electronically, information to electronically attend the meeting will be posted on the Township’s website at .wvtM;lipp£Bvp-4’<?.n) within a reasonable time before the meeting. In addition lo participation during an electronically held public hearing, members of the public may also provide written comments for the Zoning Board of Appeals’ consideration by emailing or mailing those com­ ments to the Township Clerk for receipt at least one day prior to the meeting at hopetwpcl@mei.net or at the address below. Written comments will also be received from any interested persons by the Hope Township Clerk at the Hope Township Hall during regular business hours and may be further received by the Zoning Board of Appeals during the hearing. Oral comments will be taken during the hearing. Hope Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon five (5) days’ prior notice to the Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. HOPE TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS Hope Township Hall 5463 South M-43 Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269) 948-2464 ,nT‘mu,n’ and comply wi,h government orde?’ foursomes have been able to play lheir "^Shit the week. . Pns year’s three charities vying for votes ,o donations from ,hc cvenl !o thcir organizations are the Barry County Literacy programs (Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and thc Mobile B Bus book mobile). Green Gables Haven Counseling Services and the Barry Community Enrichment Center, Inc. ‘‘Most people don’t know this, but you don t even have to sleep here at Green Gables Haven in otxfer to receive our counseling ser­ vices,” Green Gables Haven of Barr}- Couniy Executive Director Janie Bergeron said. “We provide counseling, up to six sessions, for each individual that needs some help,. Furthermore we offer weekly group that allows anyone for any amount of time to come back and join the ladies, or gentlemen in some cases. t0 0^ about lheir abuse and how they're dealing with the struggles and their coping mechanisms.” “This Bill porter outing is what pays for two years of this counseling service,” Bergeron added in a video created for the Bill Porting outing Facebook page. The Barry County Literacy program shared a video featuring YMCA Community Outreach Director Allison Hinton showing off the B. Bus. "One of the major reasons we wanted to put this together is because Barry Couniy is so spread out and we have so many pockets of neighborhoods where kids can not get to the public libraries because their parents are working and they are essentially trapped This canister has been collecting votes from golfers in the 16 Annual Bi Memorial Charity Golf Classic throughout the week inside the pro shop at The ega y at Hastings. Green Gables Haven, Barry County Literacy programs, and the Barry Community Enrichment Center, Inc. are this year’s three charities benefiting from funds raised through the golf classic. (Photo by Brett Bremer) where they live. By taking the books to lhe kids our goal is lo lesson that summer learn­ ing loss." Lani Forbes, lhe executive director from the YMCA of Barry County, and Barry Community Foundation Vice President Annie Halle shared a video about the need for an automatic door opener at the Barry Community Enrichment Center on South Broadway in Hastings to make the entrance handicap accessible. Charities’ videos aren’t the only thing the event is sharing online. There are also going to be virtual updates throughout this week with information about the leaders of closest to the pin, longest putt, closest second shot competitions and more. Friday golfers have had thc chance lo make plans for skins competitions and to purchase mulligans during the registration process. Forbes said she received a call at the lunch hour Wednesday with another foursome look­ ing to sign up for the event, and would be happy to help teams get signed up even today (Aug. 20) for the event. Late entrants may still be able to get more information and set up a tec lime by calling Bonnie Gettys lhe Barry Community Foundation al 269-945-0526 or Forbes at the Barry County United Way at 269-945-4010. Saxons grapple with football’s move to spring Brett Bremer Sports Editor Hastings varsity football coach Jamie Murphy got the call from Hastings High School athletic director Mike Goggins Friday afternoon. Murphy’s players were calling him even before he was off the phone with Goggins. "They were finding out the same time I was," Murphy said. Senior running back/linebacker Keegan OLon was working a shift at Biggby Coffee in Hastings Friday when his sister rolled through lhe drive through to give him the tough news. The Representative Council of lhe Michigan High School Athletic Association Friday announced it will move the 2020 fall foolball season to lhe spring of 2021. due to football’s higher risk for spreading COVID-19. The football season switch was made based on consultation with state health department officials and after surveying MHSAA mem­ ber high schools on their progress and prefer­ ences after the first four days of practice. Foolball is considered a high-risk sport for potential spread of the COVID-19 virus because of its level of player-to-player con­ tact. Olson couldn’t remember if his sister ordered a coffee or not. Things became a blur of disappointment in the moment. “I had to go sit in lhe back for a little bit, because it was kind of a shock. It was surreal I guess, h was insane to have my senior sea­ son posiponcd until spring,” Olson said. Hastings spent its first week of practices allowed the MHSAA, beginning Aug. 10, practicing in the mornings and early after­ noon. The Saxons had already spread out for the weekend when the announcement came late Friday afternoon. H wai going so well. We were all so ener­ getic and ready tn play, ready to come out and j**5'™ (Thomappie' Kellogg). We were all bonded anj Work! out bulls off for lhe sea“n io aouaii) ickup," Olson said. , ,Hc had some thoughts of playing soccer fal1- but now he thinks he’ll focus on improving 4|n.„.„h and agility for the spring '■"'b-ll Maned playing HYAA as 1 sevemyear-oW. •'“'d lhc fal1 of 2019 was hi, fi ()n lhe Saxon varsity. Al ,he end of the day, we d,d everything we could (o f- . ‘ alh forward for football this fall;Executive Director Mark as. Friday.’But while continuino ln U "i with the Governor’s °ir,CC’ M’'e heS' dep-irtment officials, our ! Jc«onnel nnd .he Council, there Is • P uncertainty and too COV^ is rrk spon .P^Se haVC to be made on our none of-hose carry' “It was really hard for them to accept, but I think by the time our meeting was done they kind of had a different perspective in terms of looking at it as an opportunity as opposed to something that happened to them, instead of being a victim.” Jamie Murphy, | Hastings varsity football coach I contact as football.” Olson said he saw a lot of positive things in the football team online chat online, with teammates calling it an opportunity to be even better prepared for a spring season. Murphy was there for all his players Friday - the posi­ tive, lhe sad and the mad. The Saxon coach said about 70 percent of the high school pro­ gram was at his house Saturday. "I kind of laid it out for them and explained everything to them, and tried to head some things off before they got out of control on social media," Murphy said. “Il was really hard for them to accept, but I think by the time our meeting was done lhey kind of had a dif­ ferent perspective in terms of looking at it as an opportunity as opposed to something that happened to them, instead of being a victim." lie told his players they’ll have the oppor­ tunity lo be the first Michigan high school football players to gel to play in the spring, and that they have a unique opportunity to be four-sport athletes. While Olson may not lake that opportunity lo find a new sport this fall, he docs plan to work hard lo make the Hastings football team the best it can be the next time it is able to take to lhe turf. He had already surprised his coach a bit this month by being a vocal leader through thc five days of August practice. “We haven't had a vocal leader in many years on our varsity." coach Murphy said. “None of lhe kids really step up and take vocal leadership when we break apart, when coaches leave he kind of takes control and demands a lot out of the kids and demands their attention when he talks. It is kind of refreshing. We haven’t had that in a while." Murphy said Olson was one of a few guys who was really helping lead the way for the Saxons on lhe practice field this fall, along with fellow seniors Zach Perry and Evan Eastman. “Evan Eastman kind of took control of our offensive line and seems to be who everyone looks to in terms of leadership on our offen­ sive line. He has been running some tight end for us," Murphy said. "He really broke out as far as becoming a conscious athlete, conscious of what he is doing on thc field and on the court even during basketball season. I think he built a lot of confidence that way.” Murphy said he thought Perry surprised some of his teammates with thc continuous improvement he showed over the last three years, after not playing many snaps as a fresh­ man. and his commitment and his heart were becoming examples for all his teammates. A total of 34219 student-athletes played football al MHSAA member schools during lhe 2019 season. A total of 520 11-playcr teams and 83 8-player teams were anticipated during late summer to play football this fall season. The MHSAA announced July 17 it would proceed this school year with its traditional calendar beginning with fall sports but with enhanced precautions to help limit thc spread of COVID-19. Al that limc. the MHSAA also stated it would move football, and other fall sports seasons, to thc spring of 2021 if they were deemed unsafe to proceed when origi­ nally scheduled. Football was allowed to begin practice, with helmets but no other padding, on Aug. 10. Volleyball and soccer arc considered mod­ erale-risk for virus spread, while cross coun­ try, golf, tennis and swimming & diving are considered low-risk. Cross Country. Lower Peninsula girls golf and boys tennis and Upper Peninsula girls tennis began practice Aug. 12; golf and tennis teams were allowed to begin competing Aug. 19, and cross coun­ try teams may begin competing Aug. 21. Volleyball, boys soccer and Lower Peninsula girls swimming & diving also began practice Aug. 12. and competition guidelines for those sports were planned to be announced Aug. 19, but now some kind of announcement is planned for today (Aug. 20). Schools in regions under Phase 4 of the Ml Safe Start Plan remain unable to play volley­ ball or swiny'dive indoors due to governmen­ tal restrictions. Further guidance from Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s office is expected in the near future regarding these indoor facilities. Details for lhe spring foolball season including a specific schedule and format will A°AUnccd ovcr lhe nexl ,ew months. Hie MHSAA will lx- working to limit overlap of spring football and lhe traditional Spring sport seasons. r While this is tremendously disappointing, wc will do everything possible to provide the nest possible experience in thc spring while adding tootball into the calendar.’’ Uyl said. �■J JL 2 Hastings Banner Thursday, August 2020 TheThe Hastings Banner —— Thursday, August 20,20, 2020 — — Page 13 J**—iHSsJays ground wo£Mor school year ahead ■ ^SSL'^" 9^ / •fA <r •* Superintendent Dan Remenap responds to a question from a school board member’ Rebecca Pierce Editor For the first time since February, Hastings Area School System Board of Education met in person Monday. Thc meeting, which took place in the commons area at Hastings Middle School, lasted about 27 minutes with social distancing observed and everyone wearing masks. “It’s a pleasure to be back in person.” school board President Luke Haywood said lo a sparse gathering of mostly staff and administrators as he opened the session. Haywood thanked them for “working tirelessly” to prepare for a new school year. Much of that work, laying out a plan for how school will function in this coming year, is embodied in a COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plan for students and parents. In two key action items for the evening, the board approved the district tax levy of 17.9262. The original 18-mill levy - approved by voters in August 2017 - was reduced by the Headlee Amendment, which requires the district to automatically roll back its millage rale when property value increases faster than the r?te pf inflation. . .. “In a year that has been crazy, this is : something that’s normal,’ Assistant Superintendent for Operations Tim Berlin remarked. The total amount raised by the tax is nearly $4.4 million. The district’s debt levy of 6.9 hasn’t changed; it’s thc same as last year, he said. And the sinking fund, at 0.9898 last year, rolled back by Headlec to 0.9733 this year, will generate about the same amount of revenue this year as it did last year, he noted. The total raised by that levy is $618,284. The district levies taxes in Barry' and Calhoun counties. Despite occasional references to normalcy, Superintendent Dan Remenap catches up with Northeastern Elementary School Principal Eric Heide prior to Monday’s meeting. (Photos by Rebecca Pierce) Hastings Police Chief Jeff Pratt praises Superintendent Dan Remenap for his service to the school district and the com­ munity. the reality ..of thg pandemic intruded iru? •variety of ways Monday/ ‘ : * Athletic Director Mike Goggins pointed to last Friday’s announcement by thc Michigan High School Athletic Association that high school football will be postponed until spring 2021. Hastings student athletes had already put in a great first week, he wrote in a Facebook post: “And it was nice to start to get back to normal a little bit. But, unfortunately, the call we all feared has come.” Goggins said boys’ soccer and tennis, girls’ volleyball, golf, swim and dive and cross-country are still on. “Whether or not that will hold true remains to be seen,’’ Goggins noted on Facebook. “I • Robert Cole, high school assistant junior varsity football coach, $4,200. • Brian Donnini, high school assistant junior varsity football coach. $4200. • James Doran, high school girls’ junior varsity coach. $2,000. • Marshall Evans, high school head junior varsity football coach, $4,100. • Tiffany Hendershot, high school varsity volleyball coach. $4,460. • Michelle Homister. high school assistant girls’ swim coach, also approved by Thomappie Kellogg schools. • Lindsey Jacinto, high school varsity cheerleading coach, $3,800. • Tyler Jiles, high school assistant freshman football coach, $2,600. Those attending the Hastings Area • Anthony Knop, middle school assistant School System Board of Education meet­ cross-country coach, $1,400. ing Monday were greeted by this sign and • Kristen Laubaugh.high school girls’ golf a dispenser of hand sanitizer. coach, $2,900. • Francisco Lopez, high school boys; know many have questions about the varsity soccer coach, $3,480. ^possibility.of.football inthjfspring and what • James Murphy, high school varsity "that will lodk’like or if otter sports will be football coach. $5,540. canceled soon. I do not know. 1 wish I had • Kelli Newberry', high school assistant more answers, but, at this time,I do not.” cross-county coach, S2200. Monday night, he told the school board he • Jon Pewoski, high school head freshman has his fingers crossed for football in the football coach, $3,300. spring. • Lauren Ricketts, middle school eighth­ The board approved the followin’7 grade volleyball coach, $1,600. appointments with extra pay for extra duty • Carl Schoessel. high school girls’ swim where noted: coach, also approved by Thomappie Kellogg • Todd Bates, high school girls’ diving schools. coach for the fall sports season, who also was • Krista Schueller, high school boys’ approved by Thomappie Kellogg schools varsity tennis coach, $2,900. • Steve Collins, high school cross-country • Valerie Slaughter, high school JV boys and girls coach, $4,780. volleyball coach, volunteer. • Pat Coltson, high school assistant varsitv • Heather Teed, middle school cross­ football coach, $4200. * country boys’ and girls’ coach. $1,600. • Amanda Zalewski, high school JV cheerleading coach, $2,900. In other action: » As they have done in lhe past, each school board member “adopted” a school for th£ year. •. Board members and their schools are* Jennifer Eastman, the middle school; Haywood, thc high school; Mike Nickels, Northeastern Elementary School; Dan Patton, lhe high school; Rob Pohl, Star Elementary; Valerie Slaughter, Southeastern Elementary ; and Louis Wierenga Jr., Central Elementary. Personnel changes were a large part of Monday’s program and, at lhe top of the list, was the introduction of new’ staff member Jason Slaughter. Also, the following retirements were noted: Patricia Fields, Central Elementary crossing guard, retired after 12 years of service; Elissa Letot, middle school math teacher, retired after 22 years of service; and Barbara Lyons, Northeastern lunch paraprofcssional. retired after three yeittif 'Die following posts were eliminated due to budget cuts or student needs: Teresa Mitchell, a general paraprofessional at the high school; and Laurie Thomas, healthcare I professional at Northeastern. Thc following employees were reassigned: Tammy Garbrecht, special education teacher at Star Elementary; Adam Knapp, sixth-grade English language arts teacher al the middle school; and Racheal Eckelbecker was hired as a Northeastern Elementary lunch paraprofessional. The next regular monthly meeting of lhe school board will be at 7 p.m. Sept. 23 in thc multi-purpose room of Central Elementary School. 509 S. Broadway. Hastings. Narrow approval moves farmland preservation forward Rebecca Pierce , Editor , A request to seek a federal grant for the preservation of the Larry and Vanessa Carpenter farm in Bellevue is not a slam-dunk for the Barry' County Board of Commissioners. On Tuesday, during a committee of the •whole meeting, a voice vote recommending approval of the request narrowly passed. 3-2. Board Chairwoman Heather Wing and commissioners Howard Gibson and Ben Geiner voted for it; commissioners Vivian Conner and Jon Smelker voted against it Commissioners Dave Jackson and Dan Parker were absent. . ., . Now the recommendation to consider the request will move fonvard to a regular board m The application for a preservation grant for . *Zci arm farm on Butler Road was initial^he^l-acre of Michigan ly subnuuedm the Byers during that cycle, Stacy a coolant with Sheridan Und After c"nfe.ar 8 sui(ing and other industry Sheridan I-and C c<)ns6ervation easement professionals, 1 pursuit of funding board voted to app (||(. Carpenler farm of rhe P<«e£®' ’"cultural land easement through a federa b opportunity. BycrV‘.ides financial and techThis program Pro agrieultural nical assistance to or |a(ed benefits, lands and wetlands and th she said. ,. ,irtf intended to protect the These easemenu-fo<xl SUpply long-term vrabiJtty « ()f product>ve workby preventing convenu|(ura| accordmg mg lands to non-agr Agricui.ure. In the to the U5. I^'Tr, s, the program helps diS^eTon May 25- g deathbed wish is y n ,v,nmissioners. It is his Wing toldher^ow^ wife's wish io c applic>1ion for) □ ,nnh tells commissioners about Sheriff’s q the impact William " front ne workers. Department employees h°’cOVID-19 on hoard to allow them to apply to the federal 0ovJ*® asked the'grant through the First Responder property in Bellevue. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) °* Hazard Pay p^ent for a t rerhium Program, preservation.” The agricultural land casement fair market by a seven-member board. Hie puqxjse of the farmed value of lhe property is estimated at $] ] nin Ordinance is ro "maintm" U* ,on ri8",SHs Which resins future development lion; the requested federal share is $321 900' property wh d conin,isSK>ncr. voted 5ness environment for agriculm™ m »Umthe landowner donation toward the easen ' lnAprl /ordinances that allow property to preserve the rural cbaraeter anil nvalue is $788,100, Byers said. nenl to create the preserve farmland and aitributes of the county. W "<■ owners to protect and prese pffpfIujtJ, In April 2019, the county adopted o d nances that allow property owners t0 p 11' environmental benefits and to ^/navsayers Stnelker and Conner, dtsquality of life." ..... . and preserve farmland and open space in 2-i;:,h,ldKd reyMiliao . The way that’s occompl” *• ls 'by a petuity. ’X*r Slacy Byers, a consultant with ------ 1— Consulting, requested the Barry Countv hn B^an Land of a federal grant application for mleo ?5 apprOval Action under these ordinances is <.o, , Tiled ing the development nghivOffer«i by landowner:'by means of a don^ ^d tbUx^'that the pmP^- threatened by the kind of development that would break it up with five homes on 10 acres. But Smelker said, until they show him some proof of that, he doesn’t see a danger of development. “I’m not against farmers,” said Conner, who explained that she disagrees with giving farmers this kind of boon when it’s not avail­ able to other property owners. “Land is an asset to you,” she said. “...Why should a farmer be supplemented for it? It’s still tax money. It’s something that’s not avail able to the people who pay the taxes. It's not free money. The taxpayers still have to pay it.” In other business, the board heard a request from the county sheriff’s department union employees to apply to the federal government fora grant through lhe First Responder Hazard Pay Premium Program The 3-2 vote, with Wing and Conner voting against it, will move the recommendation forward to a full board meeting. During discussion, Conner pointed out that the board already has approved compensatory time for frontline workers al the sheriff’s department. When this grant was discussed at that time, commissioners were told comp time was the preference, she said. In other action, the commissioners: • recommended approval of a Public Act 116 application for Agriculture Farmland and Open Space Preservation for lhe Archie and Matlie Jennings 40-acre farm in Maple Grove Township. • recommended approv al of a request to sell a 2008 Tahoe via sealed bid. • recommended amending lhe 2019-20 Child Care Fund budget to move funds from lhe in-home component of the juvenile court to thc out-of-home care component for juve­ niles who are currently receiving intensive residential placement services. • recommended removal of Bob Baker from the county’s Conservation Easement Board tor non-attendance. �Pag© 14 — Thursday. August 20. 2020 - TN) Hastings Banner Adopt-a-corner program receives state recognition ntry.i »’tunnunfi- Landscape fortification Award Thomappie Garden Club members and the City of Hastings administrative staff pose with an award from the Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association for the adopt-a-corner program. Mayor Dave Tossava (left) stands by State Senator John Bizon, adopta-corner program chairwoman Diane Haines, city manager Jerry Czarnecki. Thornapple Garden Club president Mary Purchase and community development director Dan King. (Photos by Luke Froncheck) Mayor Dave Tossava holds a tribute from the state legislature awarded to the City of Hastings and the Thornapple Garden Club for their adopt-a-corner program. State Senator John Bizon speaks to a crowd during an award ceremony at Thornapple Plaza Monday. Luke I’ronchcck Staff Writer Hastings showed some major flower power Monday. Am) Upton, a representative from the Michigan Nursery' and Landscape .Association, awarded the City of Hastings and thc Thomappie Garden Club thc Plant Michigan Green Community Landscape Beautification award for the local adopt-a-comer program. Thomappie Garden Club Mary Purchase and Diane Haines, chairwoman for the adopta-corner program and vice president of the garden club, jointly accepted the award during a ceremony at Thomappie Plaza Monday morning. The Plant Michigan Green Program is in its third year and recognizes communities for excellence in improving the physical and aesthetic environment of their neighborhoods. Upton said. “1 really enjoy this.” Haines said. “1 love flowers, and I think it’s important lo be a part of your community." 'fhe program also advocates for raising awareness of the economic growth and environmental impacts quality landscaping brings lo Michigan’s communities, Upton said. ’’These projects are designed to enhance the visual image of the neighborhoods, improve livability, build civic pride and promote community spirit," Upton said. The club and lhe city also received recognition for beautification efforts from State Senator John Bizon. “You’ve got a great-looking city and a great beautification program," Bizon said to the mask-wearing, socially distanced crowd. Projects were judged by industry professionals and had to excel in thc areas of Adopt-a-corner chairwoman Diane Haines (left) and Thornapple Garden Club president Mary Purchase hold their award from the Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association. craftsmanship, correct horticultural practices and contribution to environmental quality. The award criteria included overall effect and impact on the area; the choice, quality and sustainability of plant materials: overall project design; and the quality of construction and project elements. “When I look out here today, I see it is truly a community venture," Upton said. The adopt-a-corner project began in 1996 and relies on a team of more than 10(1 volunteers caring for 78 flower beds. This year. 172 flats, 20 geraniums and four spikes were planted. ’ MNLA was founded in 1922 to promote Michigan’s green industry, including landscape, lawn care, retail garden centers and nursery pianl production segments. 1110 industry contributes $5.7 billion into Michigan’s economy and employs more than 36’°°0 individuals. took uho's riding Great News Parents of Hastings Schools Students! Barry County Transit will be available for Student Transportation to Hastings Schools within the city limits again this falll Our fare is still just $1.00 per ride. Please be aware that we are following the school’s protocol requiring students to wear masks while onboard. Later, we will be able to defer to parental discretion. Also, in most cases, Transit bus capacities may not allow social distancing for your student. Barry County Transit respects the choices you make as parents so please be aware of this up front. For scheduling and questions please call our office at 269-948-8098. See you soon!! WE LOVE OUR students . ;; /’• � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-08-27.pdf 9d80f2f8b2bf64e8041f01b9893c69c8 PDF Text Text Proposed gravel pit raises concerns See Story on Page 3 Call to plav during f«w*l Panthers get on course at Gilmore See Story on Page 13 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 1070490102590502972549058113421 ANNER CAR-RT LOT C 005 C005 Rjcliard Hemertng 421 N TaffeeDr ' Hastings Ml 49053-1134 6/30/2021 9 4700AM Thursday, August 27,2020 VOLUME 167, No. 34 PRICE $1.00; Back to school begins new normal Sophie Bates Rep. Calley to I visit Hastings State Rep. Julie Calley welcomes resi| dents to attend outdoor office hours in I two communities Monday, Aug. 31. She will meet with constituents at the following locations at the Scheid Park Pavilion. 455 Main St. in Saranac from 10 to II a.m. Then she will travel to Hastings to ' meet with citizens at the Bob King Park Pavilion, 100 E. Woodlawn Ave. from 12:30 to 2 p.m. A legislative update will be provided at 12:30 pm., with an opportunity for individual meetings following at 1:30 pm. “Outside office hours have proven to be a successful alternative.’’ Rep. Calley said. “1 deeply appreciate the interest and engagement from those who attend.” No appointment is necessary. Out of consideration for other attendees, indi­ vidual meetings will be kept to 10 minutes-each. .... ______ Anyone who would like additional time or who is unable to attend the sched­ uled office hours may email JulieCalley @ house.mi.gov or call her, 517-373-0842. KCC students heading back to class Kellogg Community College will wel­ come students back for in-person classes Monday for the first time since March. The college is offering a variety of different formats, including online, in-person and a combination of both. 'Drive sober’ campaign underway Throughout Labor Day holiday wcek- I end, police departments, sheriff’s offices I and troopers from the Michigan State I Police are encouraging motorists to celeI brate safely and make smart driving I decisions. During the three-week period, which I began Aug. 14, motorists will see I increased enforcement and additional I messaging about the dangers of driving I impaired on the roads. Officers will be on the lookout for I motorists under the influence of drugs I and alcohol throughout the Drive Sober I or Get Pulled Over enforcement period. Staff Writer As students at the Hastings Area School System’s Southeastern Elementary arrived for their first full day of school Tuesday, they were greeted by Principal Dana Stein and other staff members whose masks could not hide their enthusiasm. “It was good to see the kids and welcome them back,” Stein said. “Teachers go into this because they love their interactions with kids, and it just rejuvenated and rc-energized every ­ one.” Like their teachers, the students exuded excitement as they waited for class to start. Fifth-grader Hunter Gonsalves was among students who said it’s challenging to adjust to the school’s new rules designed to protect students and staff from contracting the novel coronavirus. These new rules include requir­ ing elementary students to wear masks until they arc situated in their classrooms and whenever they come into close contact with a teacher or staff member. While the new rules made things a little “confusing” and “weird,” Gonsalves said, his first day of school went well and he continues to be excited about the rest of the school year. Making sure all students fully grasp and adhere to social distancing rules is Hastings Superintendent Dan Remennp’s greatest comccm so far this school year. “The biggest thing is trying to enforce social distancing because our kids — all of our kids — are such social creatures that they Tfaylor Owens Staff Writer New revenue figures from the Michigan Consensus Revenue Estimating Conference held Monday create a more positive outlook for school budgets. “I have a sense of relief from what the pic­ ture was a few months ago,” Delton Kellogg Finance Director Andrew Nuremberg said. "It was pretty bleak. These new revenue esti­ mates paint quite a bit better picture for us.” The revenue conference brought the House and Senate Fiscal Agencies and the Stale Treasurer together to present changes to the state government’s financial forecast based on revenues such as sales tax. The last revenue conference, held in May, presented a grim outlook of the future of the state economy in the face of COVID-19. The numbers presented Monday show Michigan is Doug VnnderLaan Contributing Writer The world may nm out of typewriters before Banner correspondent Elaine Garlock is done filing her weekly Lake Odessa News columns. The technology-drying local newshound, who turns 100 years old today. Aug. 27, has burned through cfehl typewriters already and is raising smoke on her current Smith Corona as she continues to keep her friends and neighbors inform*1 about every thing happen­ ing in their community“I’m the Hero ol Information,” Garlock chirps, that line coming from a ^on(jay morning in her kiK*1,c” many years ago when her mother-in-h'v as’<cd why the telephone the tragic results of druggc n video can be found at The Drive Sober or Ge campaign is ^^ by the United . T llje in a better position than was expected, and state budgets, including the school aid fund, are benefiting. “It seems the stimulus packages that we’ve seen so far during the pandemic have lessened the COVID-19 blow to state revenues,” a release from Michigan School Businesses Officials said Tuesday. "Income tax withhold­ ing and sales taxes have not declined in recent months to the extent estimated al the May CREC.” According to numbers presented at the May conference, Michigan schools were expected to receive a $650 per pupil funding cut in both the 19-20 and 20-21 school years. Barry County districts eventually received a much smaller $171 cut to the S8.I1I per pupil allocation for the 19-20 school year. Based on the revenue conference Monday, schools may have their funding restored back At 100, Elaine Garlock is still hitting deadline at work,, higher insurance ra es, ’ ing and repair*, and more. A videoPtitled -roe Tags focuses on a See BACK TO SCHOOL, page 3 School social worker Maicee Herrington adjusts the mask of kindergartner Adilynh Shelafoe before escorting Shelafoe to her classroom at Southeastern Elementary Tuesday. (Photo by Sophie Bates) £ Revised state budget paints better pfctare for schools In Michigan, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher, although motorists can be arrest­ ed at any B AC level if an officer believes individuals are impaired. Michigan has what is commonly referred to as a zero-tolerance drugged driving law During last year’s Labor Day holiday. Michigan had 10 fatalities, with three fatalities involving alcohol. die National High'va> Administration and coor OHSP want to see each other and hug.’’ Remenap said. “So that will probably be our biggest challenge moving forward. Maicee Herrington, a school worj.en said the students she observed dj(| an ajmjra_ blc job following the new social-distancing rules. “It’s definitely different, but the kids are doing a great job with all of the expectations Hastings has pul on them as far as wearing masks in the hallway, keeping them on and not fidgeting with them — which was shock­ ing and good to see,” Herrington said. Kayla Guerin, the mother of a fifth grader and kindergartner at Southeastern Elementary, said sending her children back to school was nerve-wracking. However, after hearing how well her children’s first day of school went, her worries were assuaged. "I was a little anxious, but they both told me they had an awesome day, which helped.” Guerin said. “They seemed to do really well.” Other parents felt more confident in the school’s ability to keep their children safe, but still struggled to adjust to this strange, new normal. “I feel like they’re safe.” Eric Wondergem said of his first and second graders. “I feel like yesterday was kind of a weird day, not being able to take your kid in toichool and relying 6n someone else; that's usually what parents look forw ard to. I mean, obviously right now people’s mindsets are different about it, but it Even as she approaches her 100th birthday. Elaine Garlock is still typing hef “Lake Odessa News” column for tfie Banner. She took over the column when her predecessor Ruth Peterman died at age 93. (Photo by Ann DeHoog) kept ringing. The telephone has ln:en the primary source of news for Gari** J’iH wr “news beat” also comes from her nu',n .^ip at Central United Methodist Chur^’ktour different histori­ cal societies to 'v!1iefh ..s,le belongs, the six newspapers she u reads every week, and from obscrv^|O,,'| s * niaKes just driving around town toscC 7 .° . n,ost attna.live Howers ors a Us o| crops in nearby fields. “Yes, 1 still . „ . responded, with 5^ GARLOCK, page 8 to the previous $8,111 for the current 20-21 school year. “That’s what we’re hoping for.” Maple Valley Finance Director Darry l Sydloski said. If that’s the case, school districts may be able to reinstate some of the budget cuts they made over the summer, or have healthier gen­ eral fund balances. “To truly restore it, that would leave us in a much better position,” Lake wood Public Schools Business Director Ben Wakley said. The per pupil funding amount will not be decided until the slate government passes its overall budget. Up until last year, the state had been finalizing its annual budget in June, which gave schools enough time to plan their budgets for the next school year. But due to the complications of COVID-19, administra­ tors don’t expect the budget to be completed until just before the Oct. 1 deadline. “Almost two full months into our fiscal year, and we still don’t know what we’ll get from the stale,” Hastings Area Schools Director of Operations Tim Berlin said. “It’s been difficult to say the least.” “It would help us to be able to finalize what our budget is going to look like,” he added. Berlin said he is a little skeptical that the state will be able to reinstate the per-pupil budget fund to $8,111, but is more optimistic now than he was before the revenue confer­ ence. . , Wakley also pointed that restoring the $8,111 per pupil fund still won’t put districts where they would have been if there had not been a pandemic. The state typically raises per pupil funding each year to keep up with the cost of inflation. In the original slate bud­ get passed last fall, districts received a raise of between S120 and $240. •; The rate of inflation is going up even faster for many items during the pandemic, includ- ’ ing personal protective equipment, cleaning . supplies, sanitizer and technology. < “Every week things are costing us more; than they did the week before.” Wakley said; While there can be computers available at the same price as previous years, Wakley saijf they are backordered for six months. Tb get computers in even a six week window means* a larger price tag. School administrators say they are still cal­ culating what the effect of educating during pandemic will have on their districts, but the costs arc stacking up. £ A number of outside businesses, organiza­ tions and individuals have been helping their See BUDGET, page 2 Contributions to schools still needed, educators say Tnylor Owens Staff Writer A number of businesses, organizations and individuals have been helping their local school districts - and school officials say they hojx? that generosity continues. The Barry Community Foundation gave each Barry County school district $25,(XX). Director Bonnie Gettys said the founda lion originally allocated $12,500 to districts Inst spring, to help connect students io the internet. But Gettys said she soon realized that, even with the funding, many tamilics just didn't live in areas where a reliable internet connection was possible, esf>ecialiy in the short time frame (hat students needed it. “It became a very difficult proposition to get it in the homes.” Gettys said. Hie foundation expanded the scope of the funding to include addition al ways oi help ing students with remote learning. For the second S 12.500 amount given to schools this fall, the foundation is allowing schools to choose how to spend the money. "Thai’s wonderful, we can use it,” Maple Valley Finance Director Darryl Sydloski said. His district just spent $8,126 for carts and trash barrels to move food and waste to and from classrooms during lunchtime, he said. Hastings Mutual Insurance Company recently donated 55 refurbished laptops to Lakewood Public Schools. “We've seen a lol of support, kind of behind the scenes; everybody's willing to help out where they can,” Lakewood Public Schools Business Director Ben Wakley said. Wakley encouraged more businesses and organizations to reach out to their local schools to ask how they can help. �Fage 2— Thursday. :~ Page 2 Thursday, August 27,202027, 2020 - The Hasnngsn^ Hastings Banner ■ A * DDA approves charging station fees - Thursday morning. Hastings to Use . .ion -----jS.fs . ChargcPoint station is at the comer ot plugged j n , molor . • ”* motorists Mill Street and Michigan Avenue, across from businesses Dr K 0u ’ the Superette party store. Once the station is activated. Community Development Director Dan King said the location will be entered into ChaigcPoinl’s national database and can be found by electric vehicle operators. The goal. King said, is to bring people into Dari- last Luke Froncheck • Staff Writer , The cost to charge an electric car in * Hastings has been set. ; Members of the Hastings Downtown • Development Authority approved a charging fee of $ I per hour for the first two hours and ; $5 for each additional hour. ‘ DDA members approved the cost during an ; in-person meeting under the pavilion in T> dcn chicle is While a.vw.e^^ „,.lV vvisit may * 5lt 0local may Hastings Mayor Dave Tossava follows along on his computer tablet 0 20 Downtown Development Authority meeting. W The Hastings Downtown Development Authority meet at a pavilion in Tyden Park last Thursday morning. by the DDA to run the pump is less than a $1 an hour. King said, adding that the station is located in a free parking lot. tn other business, the DDA: •Approved spending $3,252 for a handheld parking violation enforcement tool. The approval came after an update from Hastings Police Chief Jeff pratt who said the old handheld unit stopped working and could not be repaired. Pnut said each violation is a $5 ticket. However, the new unit allows parking enforcement officers to track repeat offenders and issue incremental fines. Board members verbally agreed to request the city council make three-hour free parking downtown permanent. -Received information from King on the potential of a 24/7 webcam for downtown « .• e Me advised DDA members to review the ^formation so they could have further discussion on the camera at a later meeting. King received the offer frcm £ West Michigan Tourist Associatio . Representatives said if the DDA were to purchase a camera, the live feed of Hastings could be added to the WMTAs website, the city website, social media and more. , _ . -Discussed a contact with Adams Outdoor for a billboard in Caledonia. DDA members cited issues with getting Adams staff to reply to requests to change the billboard promptly. Members also raised suggested switching billboard companies when the current contract expires. DDA staff was asked to explore other advertising options. Middleville approves bridge shut-down for dam repairs i Greg Chandler Staff Writer J Drivers who use the East Main Street ' bridge over the Thomapple River in downtown 1 Middleville will have to alter their routes for • several days next week while the dam undergoes repairs. ’ The village council Tuesday voted 5-2 to , grant a request from Commonwealth Power Co. to close the bridge, between Water Street 1 and Railroad Street, from Sept. 2 to 5 to < replace the dam spillway gates. i “We’d like to get the water level back up as quick as possible and as efficiently as possible,’’ Adam House, the dam’s chief ‘ operator, said. “However, I do understand it’s ; an inconvenience to block off your bridge, no • matter if it’s one day or four days.” i House told council members that making ‘ repairs now would allow Commonwealth ’ Power to get the gates and hinges replaced without water levels being a problem. He said ; the current gates have exceeded their lifespan, and the water levels cannot be raised unless ’ the gates are replaced. “The water got low enough June 18 ... that it exposed completely that back side,” House said. “When we took a picture of it. all the members were so rusted out that it had buckled. It would not survive another winter.” Before going to the council, Commonwealth Power had to get approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, which oversees the safety of dams such as the one in Middleville. FERC granted approval for the project Aug. 12, according to a letter from the commission’s regional office in Chicago. ’ House initially proposed a Sept. 1-4 window for the dam repairs. Some village and school officials questioned the timing of the request, since classes for Thomapple Kellogg Schools have just begun. 1 TK Transportation Director Chuck Walker The dam in downtown Middleville will undergo repairs starting Wednesday, resulting in the closure of the East Main Street bridge. sent a letter to the village expressing concern about the project, saying 20 of the district’s 27 buses use the bridge every day in transporting students to and from classes. He asked to have the project put off until Labor Day weekend, since the district will not have classes the Friday or Monday of that weekend. “If Main Street gets shut down during school days, we are left with two options, neither are very good. The first being looping around to McCann (Road), which adds an additional 20-30 minutes for a bus, which means we would have to have kids on the bus that much longer, plus starting them out that much earlier,” Walker wrote in his letter. “The other option would be to go to Crane,' Finkbeiner Road and either cross westbound or turn left onto M-37. “This is a terrible option for all parties involved due to the size of that intersection, the speed of traffic on M-37 and that intersection not being signal controlled. Our buses would never get through the intersection, but even worse, we would really have to worry about our new students and then the additional parents trying touse that intersection as well.” Council Trustee Ed Schellinger also was critical of having the project done on weekdays. “Your whole presentation, you’re diking about public safety; We’re all concerned about public safety for those 27 busloads of kids tliat have to turn off of this busy highway onto Crane Road. Now there’s public safety,” said Schellinger, who was one of the two votes opposing the bridge closure. “It would have been wonderful if you could have done this over a weekend and we wouldn’t have had to worry' about it.” City approves commercial development projects, community events in Hastings 4 Sophie Bates Staff Writer T\vo commercial development projects Came one step closer to fruition Monday during a Hastings City Council session when requests by the projects’ managers were approved. ' First, the council voted to OK a letter of interest expressing support for a commercial and residential building project at 205 S. Jefferson St. '•This is a project that will bring a mixedused building to the downtown with residential units on the second floor,” City Manager Jerry Czarnecki wrote in the letter. “There continues io be a need for housing, and the projects that the city has supported in the past continue to ;be utilized to capacity.” ’ The Michigan Economic Development 'Corp, is considering recommending the project to the Michigan Strategic Fund where ■ it could be awarded a grunt of up to $227,582 'from the Community Development Block Grant program, though nothing is official yet. »The council’s letter of interest will indicate to *MEDC that the city is open to pursuing the .project. ' ’The letter of interest docs not guarantee •that there’s going to be funding, but what it hdocs allow us to do is make sure the project ^continues moving forward in the application ‘process,” Czarnecki told The Hasting': Banner Tuesday. “ft is continually noted that there is a shortage of housing in the Hastings area, so hopefully this will attract people who can work in our local businesses.” In addition, the council set a public hearing for the next council meeting. Monday, Aug. 31 at 7 p.m., regarding the establishment of a commercial rehabilitation district at 802 W. State St. The renovation will divide the former Kmart property in hopes of attracting two to three retail businesses, including Family Farm and Home and a national chain yet to be announced. The project is slated for completion in December 2022. The council also approved two community events: Die Almost Ixgal Truck Club, represented at the meeting by Mark Randall, was given permission to host a socially distanced community event Sept. 13 at the Fish Hatchery Park pavilions. The ALTC also will use the event as an opportunity to raise funds for a community member in need of a wheelchair ramp. A Cyclocross racing weekend proposed by Brent Walk of Fun Promotions LLC also was given a go-ahead. The races will take place from approximately 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov.?] and 22 al Fish Hatchery Park. Fun lhron©ti0^1$ LLC is expecting between 150 and 200 bik^rs Saturday and about 100 or more bikers Sunday. “We do our best to work with the people who are planning the events to set up so they have the best op‘‘unity to follow the executive orders," Czarnecki said >ucsday"We have to continue to i"ovc ?ul °f .this pandemic, and we have to st®1 Bellin? back 10 normal. In Hastings normal'4 5 having evcn,s" In other business the council approved funds for city repairs’ md niiintenance c05ls; $10,405 to repair »f thc wells and storage garage. $8|fl00 to Purchase ® dump truck and Stan (XX) 10 uPEradc ,hc ctly's maintenance e-,rlce ventilation sy5,era' During lhe Councilwoman Brenda McNabb’ Stange questioned how these projects fo? ’W,*0 Czarnecki, "I dA “‘"t\ith how you re coming up with th. 8 *v " $*,e was *he 'one dissenter on the vol lhc vcntilallon system, citingc°10 UpS “sinB 'W7-(XX) from the "ale 0^1^ dUck ,hal WM formerly used bv thmetor and S39^kc the purchase of a^p Pub,ic services Hl over from 10 p3rti3'ly the project. umPuw ‘‘I’m for iiu. . . system, but I’m against the way weTSf11S°1 “<i80'”8 IF* “ ■-^^>‘bb”‘e Saurman to d,e funding of these pro ecu’m" d,&se agreed to follow up wlth c^abkP>S”- House said scheduling the project for a weekend would present logistical issues. “If I start on a Friday and I start removing stuff, and then businesses are closed and I have to get more acetylene or oxygen for the torches or something’s not right with the size bolt or washers, I can’t go source them ... that day and get back on track,” he said. In addition, expected dry weather conditions for the first week of September also are playing a factor in getting the project done then, House said. “We can have a thunderstorm. I just can’t have 12 hours of rain,” he said. ’Village President' Pro Tempore Sherry Ronning said it wouldn’t be the first time TK Schools have had to reroute buses for a construction project. “We’ve done it before. It’s not like we haven’t done it before. We’ve got to get this done.” Ronning was joined in supporting the closure by trustees Mike Lytle. Mike Cramer, Phil Van Noord and Amanda Fisk. Village President Charlie Pullen joined Schellinger in voting against the closure. “The schools had to reroute the buses when the bridge was being built, and that was quite a long time," Lytle said. ‘This will be two, maybe three days." Eventually, the council agreed to allow a Wednesday-Saturday schedule, leaving only two days for the school buses to use an alternate route before Friday’s off day. A 213.000-pound crane will be used for the gate replacement. The crane would remove the old steel gates, with the new gates to be brought in on semi-trailers, and then moved into position by the crane, House wrote in his application letter. Department of public works director Alec Belson assured council members that the project should not present any structural problems for the bridge itself, based on an assessment by engineers. MtgC “They said as long as the crane maintains [its position] on the decorative brick on the west side of the bridge and does not encroach on the bridge, they don’t see any reason there’d be any structural issues with the bridge whatsoever," Belson said. The village will require a $50,000 restoration bond for the contractor just in case of any damages to the bridge, Belson said. Delton to limit Schools ©f Ch©B6® stustete Luke Froncheck However, Corlett noted that the goals are Staff Writer just that - goals. If students are enrolled at The Delton Kellogg school district is the last minute or move into the district, they limiting the number of new Schools of would be accepted, potentially increasing Choice students it will accept in the class sizes. upcoming school year. Superintendent Kyle Previously, thc district had no limit on Corlett announced last Thursday in a Schools of Choice students. Facebook post. "This is unusual for us because, normally, ‘To limit class sizes and ensure we have we don’t have an issue," Corlett said. small classes to help with social distancing, njore students enroll for school than lhe we are limiting the amount of Schools of available spaces allow, then district officials Choice students for each grade level,” will randomly select the students. Corlett Corlett wrote. said no preferential treatment would be The limit is different for each grade level. given to families who enrolled early Any Schools of Choice students enrolled However, if several children from the at Delton Kellogg last year will not be same family enroll and one child is selected impacted. ‘‘You’re already in,” Corlett said Currentlv’’nT be Tuesday. “Once you’re accepted in a previous year, you’re in as a Delton student.” Right now. he said, the goal is to limit class sizes in the elementary school at 18 Corleu'satd'01 °f qUest,ons af,er the post," students and at 22 students in lhe middle and find outVf^y'hadlo re r'jachin8 out 10 high schools. “A big part of the return to school plan is students into school whi ?PP Y get their having smaller class sizes,” Corlett said. "If Corlett said. ’ h,ch ,s "ol ‘he case, we didn’t put a cap of how many [Schools of Choice] kids, we couldn’t limit class sizes.” Choice spot isAug.28Ply “ Schools of BUDGET, continued from i ____ trw-nl local districts. The Barry Community Foundation gave each Barry County district $25,000. Director Bonnie Gettys said the foundation originally allocated SI2,500 to districts last spring, to help connect students to the inter, net. But Gettys said she soon realized th-.r even with the funding, many families just dtdn t live in areas where a reliable internet connection was possible, especially in the snort lime frame students needed it. “Il became a very difficult proposition tn 8el n in the homes,” Gettys said. 0 The foundation expanded the scone nf ik Ending to include additional ways of h 7 • students witli remote learning. For tlh» ?.Plng $12,500 fund given to schools this falH^e sch0«'5 <o choose 5aid- His di“w« umw<;canUSe""Syd,oski $8-126 for carts un^T 6/ * 3'1^’ Just sPellt food and waste to ami r ’’Sb barre,s lo move Unchtiine. rom rooms during Hustingj m jocently donated^Ts ^surance Company ?*blic SohS.rbiShed 13pt0p$ '° ^“^‘hoscenV'eveL,^ suPP°rt. kind of °ut where they ca‘n ?!willi"ghelp .Heencoura d’ Waklcysaid. ^ons t0 rCt "°rc b«inesses and orga'*nd how the?‘hmr local schools '•an help. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 27, 2020 — Page 3 Residents voice concerns about proposed Wilkinson Lake gravel pit BACK TO SCHOOL, continued from pg. 1 didn't feel right.” Stein and oilier school staff share the worry parents may feel sending their children back to school. Yet, protecting their students from the coronavirus is just another wony - on top of thc many others that come with caring for children. “When you work with children, thc list of concerns is a mile long, and it goes from ‘Did everyone get to where they need to be this morning?* to ‘Has everyone been safe'?’ and 'Did everyone get food lasl night?’ So. this is just one more thing,” Stein said. “We love all our kids, and we look forward to seeing them. But ns a teacher and as a principal -- I think nil my staff members would agree — it’s hard to sleep nt night because your list of worries is so long. And so. this is just one more thing that we add to our plate.” Nevertheless, these worries have done little to dampen the excitement of school employ­ ees. Remcnap said that, after having to leave school so suddenly the last academic year, having the students' youthful energy in the buildings made for one of his favorite days in his educational career. Stein observed similar emotions amongst her staff. “Last night, we had a stand up meeting after work, and we just checked in vs ith every­ body.” Stein said. “You could just see joy in teachers’ eyes and their excitement for being back.” W'■ • •r First grader Dean Proulx says hello to a fellow student as they wait for the doors to Southeastern Elementary to open for their second day of school Aug. 25. (Photos by Sophie Bates) R. Smith and ons su mitted this illustration to the Hope Township Planning Commission to show what the Wilkinson Lak} gravel pit might look like. « i On an overcast, humid morning, students wait outside for the doors to Southeastern Elementary to open and their second day of school to begin Aug. 25. The proposed gravel pit would be on a 153-acre parcel on Wilkinson Lake with 800 feet of lake frontage. Southeastern Elementary Principal Dana Stein welcomes first-grader Dean Proulx Io school Tuesday. Hastings area woman killed in crash . . Hastings Township woman A 38-ycar-oW »^cgle CI;c_h on Noith died in ’’ M-43HiBJway.inCarhon Broadway.*10’ , .. .30 p.m. Tuesday. Township ’ir0U7sulIe Police were originally The Mich’S3'., w ;t male juvenile who called l<> ’“^jwhhiking <”»M^3'. .. appeared W he arrived. lhe juven.le Befon^.idence lor assb anee slopped a* a a passenger *n a veh.de •hm crashed[he vehicle and found .he Troopers ve. She was pronounced driver was u’”1^ dead ’ * al lhe ’ scene. Their preliminary investigation indicates the vehicle was traveling north on Broadway when it went off the right side of the highway Troopers said they believe the driver over-cor­ rected after leaving lhe roadway, lost control and overturned after striking an embankment Road conditions at lhe time of the crash were dry, but the road was covered in loo^ gravel from recent construction, police said Speed, alcohol or drugs do not ap|>ear to a contributing factor in the crash, they said l he crash is still under investigation. Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Hope Township residents raised concerns about a proposed Wilkinson Lake gravel pit - and their comments consumed about 90 minutes of a two-hour meeting last Thursday. Seventy-plus people logged in to attend an online township planning commission meeting and public hearing. “Our community is not in favor of this gravel pit.” Wilkinson Lake resident Gregg Berens said. “This gravel pit benefits Roger Smith and Roger Smith alone. There is no benefit for us - or Hope Township.” Roger Smith is lhe president of R. Smith and Sons Gravel and Trucking. Smith submitted a proposal on behalf of his company that, if approved, would allow the company to construct a gravel pit on parcel 07-030-003­ 00 on Wilkinson Lake. The 153-acre property has 800 feel of lake frontage. R. Smith and Sons Inc. looks forward to working with Hope Charter Township to provide a commodity for the citizens of the township and local communities at a competitive and economical rale,” Smith wrote in his Aug. 17 proposal. “R. Smith and Sons Inc. will work in good faith with Hope Charter Townshipt0 Pr°vide compliance with all applicable requirements and to protect the interests of the township and the public.” R. Smith and Sous staff conducted soil borings on the property and found deposits of sand and gravel. “The sand and gravel deposits located on the Site are precisely'the type of construction aggregate that is *n demand throughout Michigan, as identified in the Michigan Department of fransixirtation’s 'Michigan Aggregates Maf^el.tu./’ ’ Snuth wrote. An ordinance typically could not prevent a mining operal*°n’.scn,Or planner Nathan Mehmed of Will”1™ and Works said Wednesday. . . According ,J’C Michigan Zoning Enabling Act ol An ordinance shall not prevent the exlnKJl’on» hy mining, of valuable natural resources from any property unless very seriou* consequences would result from thc extract^ 0,1”°se natural resources. Natural resound sh?! ** ^nsidervd valuable for thc purpose, Scclion ifa P^on, by extracting the n-uur?. rcsuu^-\ can receive revenue and y expcet to °pc«tc al a docks, living rooms, cars and front porches. profit.” “I oppose the gravel pit,” Wilkinson Lakp That doesn’t mean the planning commission has to approve the proposal, Mehmed said, it resident Ellen Berens said, sharing her just means board members have several issues concerns about the impact on air quality and shoreline erosion as primary reasons for her to consider before making their decision. ' After seeing the amount of information that opposition. “Sound and vibration will originate at the was submitted to the planning commission, Mehmed said he expects the request will center of the mining operations; however, require several meetings before lhe planning these impacts will be buffered by the earthen barriers and thc onsite stockpiles of sand and commission is ready to make a decision. The majority of the Aug. 20 meeting was gravel,” Roger Smith wrote. “Based on taken up by residents speaking about the previous activities, and experience with other traditional sand and gravel operations, thp proposal. “I understand the rights of a business to generation of noise and vibration will be m maximize their profits,” Wilkinson Lake similar scale with agriculture machinery and resident David Ellyatt said. “However, in this practices.” The noise never goes away, resident Gary case, the rights of a business impact the rights > of many. For all the residents, there will be O’Dell said. R. Smith and Sons staff have already begdu loss of value to their home, which, for many, clearing trees on the property in anticipation is their primary asset.” | The agricultural residential zoning of the proposal’s approval. Trevor Smith sai<|. “They have blatantly ignored the noii classification was a factor Ellyatt considered ordinance established by the township aikl when he purchased his home. "AR land gives you an expectation over have been reported to thc Barr) County what your neighbors will be doing,' he said, Sheriff’s office multiple times.” Ellyatt said. “As a homeowner on Wilkinson Lake, I “and this was not one of those expectations.” The only voice at the meeting to speak in implore you not to grant this pennit in any favor of the plan was Trevor Smith, an fashion,” Ellyatt said to planning commissioners. “If you. however, do grant employee of R. Smith and Sons. Smith spoke to the board first, since he any permit, please start scheduling the t;yx assessment hearings for all lhe properties attended the meeting in-person. within a mile of that location.” Several residents spoke bluntly. "We don t Planning commission members tabled want you here,” one man said, “and we will further discussion on the proposal until the never want you here.” The property will be used to mine sand and 6:30 pm. Sept. 17 meeting so they could gravel, Trevor Smith said, adding that the review letters written by residents that were submitted during the public hearing. , operation could lasl for several decades. Voices coming over lhe Zoom ca I interrupted as Smith spoke to the board“Oh, my God,” one woman said, reacting to Smith’s estimate on lhe longevity o 1 c operation. The need for gravel is high, Smith said. Check out the all new “We bought our cottage in July last year as www.hastingsbanner.com a place for rest, relaxation and peace an quiet,” Wilkinson Lake resident Scott Arnold said. “The potential of a gravel pH ba* wry serious consequences for the lake comm i y and, personally, for my own family . “There is gravel to be found elsewhere. Arnold said. “The gravel should not come at the price of the quality ol our hves. Several residents had their Zoom cameras on when speaking to the planning They expressed their opinions from their YOUR SITE FOR LOCAL NEWS �Page 4 — Thursday. August 27, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Did you SCC? Put players ■ profit in pandemic Hastings longhorns i The registered Texas longhorns at the Hubbell farm along M-179. just west of Hastings can entice visitors to pull over or turn around for a closer look. Even local residents, such as Jacqueline Muma of Rutland Township, sometimes can't resist taking photos when the coprful cattle with characteristically lon9 horns are grazing on their hilly 9ree* ■ pasture near the highway. .. Were dedicating this space toa phon graph taken by readers or our staff me that represents Barry County. Ifyan ' photo to share, please tend if to. <*H Hastings Banner. 1351 H. Hastings. Ml d9058; ar rata. I uewsSj-adgraphics.com. Phast astformation such as when- taxi ‘ photo was taken, who took the p < • other relevant or anecdotal utformasttm. Do you ! ‘ remember? Back to school * At least one session at the Austin School in northeast Assyria Township ‘ had about two-thirds boys among the group of 27 students in 1890. Pictured here (front row. from left) are Volney ’ Wilcox, Earl Wiles. Nell Latty, Nettie ‘ Hoffman, Mabel Cox. Celia Palmiter. - Fred Schaffhouser, Ernie Shalt; (second row) Arthur Ely, Elmer Wiles, Homer Wiles, Asa Wilcox, Charley ’ Pendill, Asa Comen; (third row) Richard Wiles, Frank Latty. John Reams, Fred Ely, Fred Reams, Edith Latty; (back row) Lottie Latty, Maude Wilcox, teacher Edd Brown, Chris Wilcox and Ernest Latty. Missing from the photo are Allie Reams, Harry Schaffhouser and Harry Wiles. (Photo from “Barry County Rural History Bookshelf, “compiled by Barry County Historical Society volunteers) [Have you met? | Seeing 26 adults receive their long^iwaiicd diplomas al a recent outdoor {ceremony in Hastings was fulfilling for •Kristine Miller. Community Action Agency adult education coordinator. She knew lhe graduates and what it had taken them to get :o that point. She said she couldn't have been more proud. The former Kristine Brown was bom in Detroit, grew up in Kentucky, moved back to Michigan at age 16. Relocating as a youngster made her realize she preferred to settle down in one community. She has lived in Barry County for more than 20 years. “I wanted my son to grow up in one place, and Hastings is such a great place to raise children.” Miller, 41, said. She earned a bachelor’s degree in human services, and recently completed the coursework and tests for teaching certification in Michigan. In September 2014, she was looking at job openings in the nonprofit sector and saw an opening at Community Action Agency, which serves Barry, Branch. Calhoun, Kalamazoo and St. Joseph counties. “When I started researching the organization, I just loved every thing about it, especially lhe mission statement: ‘Dedicated to helping people achieve and maintain independence,”’ she said. “I wanted to have that kind of purpose in my life, and that was what I had in mind when I pursued a degree in human services. “Community Action Agency has many services, and they are always willing to explore additional programs to expand their support. I’m glad that I had the opportunity to hold several different positions throughout the agency.” She was hired and, in November 2014. taught in a Head Start classroom for nearly a year before moving to other positions within lhe agency. After taking financial education training, she was able to offer financial empowerment classes as part of her role. In October 2017. she began offering GED classes in Battle Creek. "I loved this new role,” she said, “and I was able to connect with my .students, celebrate their accomplishments, and feel lhe impact that continuing their education had on their lives.” Miller said she’d occasionally receive phone calls from students in Barry County who wanted to register for the program, but the distance was a barrier. Working with Charlie Wynne of Renaissance Adult Education, who had a waiting list due to the ugh number of interested individuals, lhe > Lt Kristine Miller two formed a partnership to offer more classes in additional locations. So. in October 2018, she began offering classes in Hastings, and eventually added classes in the Barry’ County Jail as well. "We have already had several new and returning students enroll for this year, and 1 am looking forward to working with them this upcoming school year.” she said. In a different sort of classroom, she had been teaching Sunday school classes for middle school students at Green Slreel Methodist Church in Hastings until in-person classes were canceled due lo COVID-19 restrictions. “We have been holding drive-up services in the parking lol. though, and that has been a fun experience.” she added. In her spare time. Miller enjoys bein«’ with her family, reading, cooking and traveling. For her work with students of all anes from preschool to adults. Kristine Miller is this week’s Bonnet Bright Light. J arn most proud of: My family Watching my son. Kyler Hess, 16, and mv stepdaughter, Greece Miller, II, grow up is my greatest privilege in lite. My hOn Kyler. my nieces, Bay lee I lilt. 16, and Aleah Rilzema, 17. and my husband. Mark Miller were .such a huge help with this year’s Walk for Warmth and our recent graduation. 1 am so lucky to have a very close, supportive family. Favorite books: I will read almost anything in front of me, but my most recent read I’m loving is "Where lhe Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens. My all-time favorite is "The Outsiders” by SI*.. Hinton. Il was the first novel my dad read, and 1 read il for the first time in filth grade. By eighth grade. I had to bus a new copy because I had read il so many times lhe binding came apart. Favorite outreach program: .All Species Kinship based in Bailie Creek. They do amazing work w i th educating pel owners and helping them to financially meet the needs of their animals. They also help wildlife in distress. Favorite vacation destination: 1 love traveling just about anywhere. Traveling to a new city and exploring the area is probably my favorite thing to do. I would love lo go lo Ireland someday. Person I most admire: My mom. Jeanette Nink. She doe^ so much for her kids, grandkids and others. She has this amazing way of helping us to look at things from other points of view and io have understanding and empathy in all situations. Greatest song: It’s too hard to pick just one, but lhe best son<’ to play when you’re having a bad day is "1 hree Little Birds” by Bob Marley, and, on a good day, “Girl on Fire” by Alicia Keys. ° What I’d tell a high school graduate: Set goals and reach for them- and don’t be afraid to iry new experiences and explore opportunities that present themselves. Sometimes our goals change, the important thing is lo keep moving forward and find what makes you happy. Best gift ever received: |:°r ,n>’. 3.0th birthday, my sister and 1 'vcnt skydiving. Lasl year for my 40th birthday, my son and I went bungee jumping at T he R<x’k in Canada, the highest bungee site in Nortl1 America. Shared experiences are lhe be$t gift­ Favorite dinner: My favorite meal ever is the Ethiopian fixxlai I ittle Africa in Grand Rapids. I introduced mv husband lo the restaurant, and it became his favorite, too. We even had it catered for 01lf wedding. 11 only I could- Give everyone the confidence in lheinscives to i*ach for ,hclr goals. Envorije season and «hj: Fa“- 1 ,l°vc the cusp air. ,|K. C01 . karts. and PuII,ng <>»'niyllannels a,,d la||b(X)ls , Best invention ever- Tl>a,s “ P between electronic navigation l'’d ""hour it, pun intended) and s“n’w,een (* d never survive summer with-n"'1-’ . f/h, ,, r... uperson who . ................................... r wmrone „/lo................................................. °f volunteer n.„k, Inn-^'uet^ stones he nt h,ly . ' ./n other teaum/ Send inj(inii{itlnn . . " l'r ‘ ii.idi'W Banner, 1.151 * \1t 4W5N.- or email new\(n 1f a<loaphil y (ttli: _ _______ _ ____________ r n My most enduring memory of being a parent volunteer at one of my children s baseball games many years ago is thc little, bespectacled third baseman I was standing behind as the infield umpire one summer evening. When a batter hit the ball into thc outfield, lhe runner on third froze and so did the third baseman - despite thc red-faced father standing in the third base coaching box next to both of them screaming into thc ear of his player, “Run! Run! Run!’!” Both shaky-kneed kids looked into thc bulging, angry eyes of the father before thc quivering thin! baseman dropped his glove and ran to home plate with the winning run lor the other team. I’d like to think my bemusement some 20 years ago came from an isolated instance of emotional parental over-involvement, but one needs to look no further than Chicago last Friday to realize how much more loud and insidious our culture’s intrusion into the life of our children has become. Approximately 25 parents of current Big 10 Conference football players from as far away as Wisconsin, Iowa, and Ohio gath­ ered outside Big 10 headquarters in Rosemont, III., to demand more information on what led the league to announce Aug. 11 there would be no football this fall. What seemed most revealing in the parent group’s demonstration, though, was the pronoun they used in one of their chants, “Let Us Play." I’ve always believed that thc game - any game - is bigger than the players. Despite the slot machine jackpot numbers being paid to professional players, I’m still of the belief that most of today’s miilion-dollar athletes would play for nothing but the love of the game if money was not involved. Thc thrill of competition, thc challenge of domination drives spon. That’s why most of the 460,000 NCAA student-athletes play - and less than 2 percent of them will go pro. But the game has gone beyond the play­ ers. Parents are getting involved and trans­ figuring thc love of the game. It’s beginning to look like parents love the game - and its potential financial windfalls for the family of those 2 percent who will go pro - more than they do lhe players, their own children. Thai's baffling to USA Today sportswriter Christine Brennan. “Given a choice between watching their child play a game, albeit one in which some will make a lot of money someday, and making sure he is as safe and healthy ns he can be. Big Ten parents are not choosing thc latter.” Brennan wrote in an Aug. 20 article. "Even in the face of a deadly pandemic. Big Ten parents are set to do thc unthinkable: Protest for the return of fall football.” Let’s look at the numbers on the national scoreboard: This country is in a oncc-in-acentury battle - and we’re losing badly. More than 177,000 Americans have died from COVID-19 with no vaccine or reliable therapeutics readily available. As a nation, we represent 425 percent of the world's population, but we account for 21 percent of worldwide coronavirus deaths and cases. We’ve bungled the re-opening of our econo­ my and we’re keeping our fingers crossed, hoping we’ve chosen the right back-toschool strategy for our children. And now some parents arc howling for football - and are willing to throw their kids into the gridiron roulette so the parents can watch. Some of them will get their demand in a couple of weeks, with three of the five major conferences moving ahead with plans to play this fall. But at the University of Alabama, eight players already tested posi­ tive when pre-season workouts began in June. Al national champion Clemson University, 37 players have tested positive for the virus. And amid the move forward at those schools come the inane comments of coaches like Alabama’s Nick Saban who told ESPN magazine that players “are a lot safer with "jan"^n.s so much lackhng. home. Yeah .like throoms> helmet-to-hclmc Jiornc. showers, bus and P offensive lineman Al Indiana UmveraiVdurjng team rin7uly Sihen wns hospitalized for workouts m July. . 5^0^ now 14 da>S Th’n mSardiiis has left him with learning that my ESPN has since pcrm;'n(Jen1h^eve al other Big 10 Payers reported that severa f _ and parent, chasing ft;r(;ncc (<> wJ)ich game, fhe SEC generates S65I Saban's university belongs, b .. ( ....... ■" cbssports.com. ‘ t Washington iKrsityTn St uX estimates that can­ cellation of the 2020 XT by all schools would be a $4 b Ilion loss. Which makes the decision by w g look all thc more courageous - and health protective - given that its expec r^nue loss for lhe season is estimated at SI billion, according to documents obtained by the New York Post. . . One might call thc whole vam affair Coronavirus Capitalism. Even worse than the crass pursuit of prof­ it is that thc corruption has seeped into our families. What do we want tor our children? Money, fame, and popularity - or healdi and happiness? In our drive to ensure our chil­ dren succeed, we’ve laken from them their identities and their satisfaction in discover­ ing and achieving things on their own. So-called "helicopter parenting” once only extended to the elementary school soc­ cer field or to the high school teacher’s grade on a science test. Now. college profes­ sors report receiving telephone calls from parents upset by grades given their children. New- York Times best-selling author and workplace consultant Lindsey Pollack said the smothering phenomenon has even hit thc workplace. “My clients tell me that parents calling to discuss their child’s needs, performance or compensation has become a common occur­ rence in HR departments,” said Pollack, who’s also aware of parents who sit in on job interviews or call an employer to rc-negotiate their child’s compensation package. Which makes the protest outside Big 10 headquarters near Chicago last week seem typical, but it’s not just parents who are responsible for this cultural cancer. It’s also on all of us who sit in lhe stands, who watch on television, and w ho buy the merchandise. America worships sport, and what we’re doing is “amusing ourselves to death,” as Neil Postman wrote 35 year ago in his book of that name. Postman used lhe words of English writer Aldous Huxley from the early 1900s to wam that “civil libertarians and rationalists who are ever on the alert to oppose tyranny fail to take into account man’s almost infinite appetite for distrac­ tions.” Today's distractions arc eroding our prin­ ciples, our ethics, and our empathy. We’ve become a country of narcissists ready to protest when lhe children of other parents get to play foolball and ours don't — even if it might endanger their health and lives. The coronavirus has exposed us all - not just to lhe virus, but as people not willing to help others avoid getting sick. At least we have some leaders, like those in the Big 10, w ho won t accept simply not caring about each other. 1 he lives of young men are too important, so across the Midwest and at lhe schools of lhe Pac 12, there will be no kick­ off this fall. Bui foolball is jusi a game. And that’s life. Time for some parents to look a little deeper. Doug VanderLaan, Guest Columnist The Hastings BbHUCY Devoted to the Interests of Barry County since 1856 Pubi^iMby... Hastings Banner, Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (zeslT^-SSsT.Tax- (269) 945 5lq? ^an^pressre,leases.- Frederic Jacobs Publisher & CEO ’ AcX!5J!.?’NG DEPARTMENT. Hank Schuuring CFO SgS Eat h JTZnG,eYn,lld Jennie Yonker ______ • NEWSROOM • Rebecca Pierce (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer (Sports Editor) Greg Chandler Taylor Owens v't452 P€>r year In Ba"Y Coun,y seo SRR lnadloiriin9 counties* a --------------->65 per yea; elsewhere P0SIM«’En:^^is .. Box 188 a’ Hastings, mi 4905fl �WAJFy 11 g g 1 Pa#e 5 . The Hastings Banner — Thursday. August 27,2020 — Pace advocate for millage to build a jail? Not county government Rebecca Pierce Pierre .______________ ______________ r- >• Editor Barry County commissioner. „ denng Tuesday what to do ncM fw *on' 3 nullage request for $25 million , . Nov' new jail at a yet-to-be announce I t' d “ The election is 10 weekS ’"°n look . "hKal h.t’< wl,al SL '“mpiugn ^-<11 CaniD itori sl h.U • law.” pm more t. fwergetti-gPoingX'iihn Wi,h TowerP>nks<er b j of gw t|, ulc com. ■‘You'rc already too Inte.-’Shamn 7.k . ot Hastings told them. ^brow-ski "You need someone to run a millm. patgn totally separate front sou " 7T said. -You need someone .^Tk! They raise money, do v ard They can say ‘Vote Y^.- ^'"hmugh N1,v.^‘XtefS """M . es‘ cannot do this.” ‘ a ?rouP ••• The status of a campaign for the Nos ember ballot proposal was triggered to. .. . from Commissioner Dan'Parker at the'en't""} the board's regular meet.ng auXn Sh2 CemerVHasX C°mn”1"i,y Enrichmc"1 * “Il might be something e*c,h g People to have ° °n.” Parker AfteHhe meeting. ''•«» ^jottmed. County Administrator Banner that he dlfc . .....I ... told The online meetings Chairwoman Heather Wing discusses Chairwoman Heather Wing said she has an upcoming meeting with TowerPinkster Brown indicated that Wing is l|1e nn|y com been meeting via Zoom with the county's jail to discuss the county's jail millage request missioner in »uen .al ’hese advisory' project consultant. TowerPinkster of on the Nov. 3 general election ballot. sessions with Towe Kalamazoo. Brown also said the letter Wing was refer­ Wing said she had another session planned ing some details from it, that explained why ring to during lhe meeting from ;in aUQr with Towerl inkster Tuesday afternoon, when commissioners would be precluded from nev and. thus, would not be included in the they should lie presenting some educational speaking about the millage proposal 60 days public record of board proeeedings lns(ead> it before Election Day. type information for us to use. There are some would fall under attomey/chent privilege, he But that legal opinion has been superseded issues with what we can do as a board.” by a court ruling in 2016. Commissioner Ben SlLatcrTuesday afternoon,BhW|) confirmct| “We can pul something on our county web­ Geiger said. “We’ve been through this process site about lhe millage,” she said. “We cannot before.” he told Wing. “...That legal opinion that Geiger was correct about the gag order, advertise on the county website - yea or nay is flawed. There was a riding by the federal which is not c?lorCff |Le Un^cr a consent - on the millage. There actually is a gag courts that basically nullified the - quote judgment issued in a -016 lawsuit against the order.” Michigan Secretary of State. unquote - ‘gag order.’... Wing referred to a letter in her hand, read?\s a result, the commissioners “are able to “We need to get a more comprehensive discuss this topic’’ of the jail millage ballot proposal. Brown said. “Ihey can put out fac­ tual information up to the day of the election." However, commissioners “can’t use public funds to promote a ‘yes or ‘no’ vote,” he said. TowerPinkster “will be assisting the board to provide neutral and factual information only,” Brown said. “Because they have been Greg Chandler thc people who tested positive were Barry hired with public funds, they (TowerPinkster) Staff Writer County residents. Barna said. are under the same rules .’ fs Barr}- County camp that has been linked The end-of-season event includes a zip Thc use of TowerPinkster as a consultant to more than 50 positive tests for the COVID- line, hay ride, boat rides, softball game and a 19 virus is planning an end-of-season event chapel service, according to the camp web­ for the jail millage has faced some criticism for its campers. site. it does not include any information on Camp Michawana in Hope Township has any measures to reduce the spread of the planned the ’’Summer Celebration” Saturday. virus, such as social distancing or wearing Sept. 5, and is promoting the event on both its masks. website and Facebook page. “We will plan to check in with them to The camp was closed down Aug. 6 after the ensure they are following appropriate mitiga­ Barry-Eaton District Health Department tion strategies for this event,” Barna wrote in reported that as many as 250 people w ho had an email to the Banner. stayed al the camp between July 24 and Aug. In a Facebook message Aug. 7. Camp A 40-year-old Hastings man was airlifted to 6 may have been exposed lo the virus. A total Michawana executive director Terry Wendt Spectrum Health Pennock after his vehicle of 52 people have since tested positive for the said the camp was “cooperating fully” with was struck by a semi-truck, which ran a red coronavirus, and another seven people have the health department, and that the staff was light at the intersection uf M-43 and Heath been reported as “probable” cases, BEDHD “sorry" about the situation and was praying Road al 7:23 a.m. Monday, police reported. planning, promotion and evaluation director for the health and safety of campers and their Barry County Sheriff’s Deputies said the Anne Barna said. families. semi, driven by a 19-ycar-old Coopersville Health department staff have been working Wendt did not return a call seeking com­ man. was eastbound on M-43 Highway when with camp management lo notify people who ment on the end-of-season event on it ran the red light. The truck hit the man’s stayed at lhe camp about thc exposure. Ten of Wednesday. vehicle as he was turning left at lhe intersec­ tion. Two children, ages 5 and 12, were in the vehicle, according to the report, and did not sustain serious injuries. After hitting thc first vehicle, the semi also hit a second vehicle, driven by a 30-year-old Nashville woman. She also had two children, ages 3 and 4. in her vehicle. She went to The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but Spectrum Health Pennock, and her children there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. did not sustain serious injuries. Camp linked to COVID-19 cases planning end-of-season event Driver airlifted after semi . . and concern during thc past two years. In November 2018. as the board discussed the need for a new jail, commissioners were cautioned about spending “money on what is essentially an illegal political campaign for a millage issue,” which could be grounds for a lawsuit. Cathy Gramze of Hastings said. Brown also emphasized this point at the board’s Nov. 20. 2018. meeting: “We can’t spend public funds to influence a voter to vote, one way or another, and we absolutely don’t want to.” In recent years, commissioners have fre­ quently mentioned not only thc need for mill­ age to finance these projects - but the need for expertise to facilitate these projects. A campaign committee operating inde­ pendently of the county board could hire anybody, including TowerPinkster, to provide information to support one side or lhe other - as long as the money being spent is not lhe public’s money. Brown said Tuesday. Each commissioner would be able to par­ ticipate in committee activities in support of a jail millage campaign and to make statements in support of the request. Brown said. “Nothing precludes them from doing so, as long as it’s their personal position. They could put out material that says. ’I encourage you to vote yes and here’s why...’” During public comment at the conclusion of the commissioners’ meeting Tuesday, Zcbrowski advised the board: “Never assume that it’s going to pass. You always have lo work with the idea that it might not pass. We need some really gung-ho people who will say ‘Vole Yes’ and they will come up with all kinds of ideas to get that across to every­ body.” In other business, commissioners: • conducted a public hearing on a request by Thomapple Kellogg Schools lo annex 80 acres of land owned by the school district at 3316 Bender Road from Thomapple Tow nship into thc Village of Middleville. The site is planned for construction of the district’s new learning center, which was made possible b) voter approval of a $42.8 million bond issue in November 2019. The action hits been approved by the township board and lhe vil­ lage council. Middleville Planning and Zoning Administrator Brian Urquhart represented the ir .*. . village Tuesday • approved, in a 5-2 vote, a request to seek , a federal grant for the preservation of die ‘ Ijury and Vanessa Carpenter farm in Bellevue. • Wing and commissioners Geiger, Parker, i Dave Jackson, and Howard Gibson voted for J it; commissioners Vivian Conner and Jon J Smelker voted against it. * The application will seek a preservation < grant for the 461-acre farm on Butler Road ‘ through a federal agricultural land casement‘ opportunity. This program provides financial \ and technical assistance to help conserve agri- • cultural lands and wetlands and their related • benefits. I In voting no. Smelker said he doesn't see ' the danger of that property being developed, ; while Conner said giving farmers this kind of • boon is unfair when it’s not available to other ' property owners. •_ ’ • approved, in a 5-2 vote, the county shen I iff’s department union employees request 10 J apply to the federal government for a grant . through the First Responder Hazard Pay » Premium Program. , • Wing and Conner voted against it, saying ' that the board already has approved compen­ satory lime for frontline workers at the sher- ’ iff’s department. When this grant was dis- J cussed at that time, commissioners were told • comp lime was the preference, Conner said. • Smelker was not in favor of singling out cer- ! tain county employees over others, adding { that they should not be allowed to receive J both comp time and hazard pay. • approved a revised equalization appraisal ! contract with Randy Jewell and Sandy Osbom | to add 80 appraisals to thc northeast part of * the county in the residential/agricultura! class- J es and approved the transfer of $4,400 from ; the permanent salaries line item to the con- < tractual services line item. Equalization stud- J ies are behind due to COVID-19 and training [ needed for new staff, so the county had to ; contract out pan of the fieldwork to meet a • required mandate in time for the slate dead­ line. • • accepted the resignation of Bob Baker , from lhe Barry County Conservation [ Easement Board. • approved claims of $126595. runs red light (write Us A Letter: The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks’’ will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire*' letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. 1 Lea i NO MORE GUTTER CLEANING, J niter or your money BACK GUARANTEED! "one™ Q^euesS°tre 4C% E Doff YOURfNTlM FURCHASF » Ji ffer.com 10& «NIO A «. MfUTAXV DISCOUNTS 866-700-0123 Promo Number 285 •• FREE Bible Study Guides & DVD’s' MICHAEL KINNEY * JV’eiv Cotton "Prints PLUMBING * Zippers, Thread, 'Buttons. £tc. Licensed Master Plumber Licensed Journeyman Plumber * Tlanntf Print Cotton New construction, remodel, repair, drain cleaning. BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEATERS Same Day Installation I .icensc °ftice (269) 948-2248 IRU0376 & Insured - Mobile (269) 838-5112 L Michigan Legislature r'mtrhpn Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Governor Gretc 5l7_335-7858 (Constituent Services). Phone (517) ’ Ju|j0 calley, Republican, 87th District (All Of Barry County) State RePre$ f Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Mi Michigan House o [0B42 o.mai|: julieCalley@house.mi.gov 48933. Phone (□ ) Bjzon Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517State Senator Dr 055-347-8019 Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; US 373-2426 g^on. PO- Box 30036. Lansing Ml 48909. , ^ndGnt’ 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Justin Amash, Indepen c 20515-2203, phone (202) 225_3831, fax (202) 225Office Building. ^^'Schigan Street NW. Suite 460. Grand Rapids. Mich. 49503. 5144’ ?M6H51-8383 phone ' U.S. Senate Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.c, n^nbnhone (202) 224',452QUSse|| Senate Office Building, Washington. D.C. 2051 o 20510, Democrat, 2 ■ f(j Gfira|d r pofd Federal Building, Room 22?rPhone (248) 799-0%%^ Rapids. Mich. 49503-2313. phone (616) 233­ 002-456-1111- Capitol Information line for Congress 720, 110 Mic ^dent's and the Senate. God 'BU’ss Slnicrica QUESTIONS: ASK US... , S 0 _ .* t A) pr. Huist Cleanors Pick-Up Station Julie Ann Coon . Reiki Master Practitioner Tuttnu} ’tn I’rtlrtri Happy Happy Birthday I HAVE MOVED TO to our beautiful MOM Gifts for Body & Soul Caroi-ffeafy. Stainsbary I |X N Michigan Aw , HaMings Cht'i. k mil an u ebsite for i\i' IV HOI ’RS of Operation julieanncoon.com i)0 sure looks great on you! 269.908.9227 IA • "J* 2U) E Stale St. HMings • 945-9673 US House of Representatives 6 Hiifsl Cfcancrs Station ; �6 — Thursday. Attest 27. 2020 — Th? Hastings Banner State sets goal to increase flu vaccines by 33 percent ’ Michigan Department of Health and l^uman Services is launching a statewide media campaign encouraging residents to get their flu vaccines this fall. ,’ This can help prevent an outbreak of a Second communicable disease that - with COVID-19 still very much a concern - could put the slate econom} and health care system al greater risk, state officials said. ! Last flu season, an estimated 3.2 million people in Michigan received a flu vaccine, as documented in lhe Michigan Care Improvement Registry. While reporting do^cs to tire MCIR is encouraged, it is not mandato , tor adults 20 and older. The state has sc goal of achieving a 33 percent increase in Vaccination this season, which means mor than 1 million additional people (han me previous flu season. . » The vaccine is already available in some parts of Michigan, with an amp c supp. expected across lhe state and nation starting in Carls fall. f ’ ‘'It’s more important than ever for Michiganders everywhere to get your u vaccine. Preventing the flu will help us save Jives and preserve thc healdi care sources vie need to continue righting C0MD-1J, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said. “Every' flurelated hospitalization we see this season will put an additional strain on Michigan s economy and our health care systems and hospitals. Our hospitals are still reeling from the spring COVID-19 hospitalizations and arc working to prepare for a potential second wax e of the virus. I encourage every one to get their flu vaccine, and tell your friends and family to do the same. ’ The flu vaccine campaign - Facing thc Flu Together - will include multiple media sources beginning Aug. 31 and reaching audiences across Michigan, including targeting lhe most vulnerable and at-risk populations. An updated flu vaccine website at Michigan.gov/Flu also has been launched with comprehensive resources with more information soon to be added. A £ 'W- / Aft >• I ».»>«- |hllnig>lry i *< During the 2019-20 flu season, lhe nation nx-orxled 39 to 56 million estimated cases of the flu. IS io 26 million medical visits due to the flu and nearly half a million flu hospitalisations. Despite its comparison to the common cold, the flu is a serious and potentially deadly disease, especially for children, older people and those with chronic health conditions. Last season, 187 children died from the flu in thc United States, including six children in Michigan. “There is a lot of misinformation about lhe flu and the flu vaccine, but the .science is clear: thc flu can be deadly, and there arc steps (hat we can take to protect against it,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, MDHHS chief deputy for health and chief medical executive. “Hint’s why as a parent and a doctor. I make sure myself and my children arc protected each year with a flu vaccine for their safely, and for my patients, friends and community.” To support thc effort to get Michiganders vaccinated against thc flu. lhe Michigan Health and Hospital Association, Michigan Primary Care Association and the Franny Strong Foundation joined Gov. Whitmer and MDHHS in calling on residents io gel vaccinated. Michigan’s health care system, hospitals and health clinics will be ramping up efforts to vaccinate for thc flu this fall and throughout thc season. Additionally, the state’s “I Vaccinate” campaign is working to educate residents about the safely of vaccinating. In an effort to help parents protect their children from all serious vaccine-preventable diseases. I Vaccinate provides lhe facts parents need to make informed decisions about vaccinations. As the flu vaccine becomes available, residents should contact their local health departments, physicians and pharmacies to schedule a lime to get the flu shot, and to seek out credible sources like IVaccinate.org for answers to vaccine questions. More information about the flu can be found at Michigan.gov/Flu. • Traditional and Cremation Services ' Pre-Planning Services • Luge Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible Serving All Faiths Pre-arrangementTransfers Accepted Family Owned and Operated Worship Together ...at the church of your choice — Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... 2635 N. M-43 Hwy., P.O Box 8. Hastings. Telephone 269-945­ 9121. Email hastfmc<& ymaif com. Website: wwwhas tings (rcemethodiM.com. Pastor Brian Teed. Student Ministries Director, Emma Miller. Worship Director. Martha Stoetze!. Sunday Morning Worship: 9am and 10:30 a.m. beginning June 21 until further notice. Due to the current health crisis, our nursery is temporarily closed and ue are temporarily suspending all Children’s ministries. Our church sanctuary is set up for social distancing. We do not require weiring masks, but do encourage it, especially while walking through thc building before and after services. Please keep your family together during lite worship service. We are a mulu-generational church family and understand that while this could mean outbursts or potty­ breaks, u e are not i neonvcnienccd by your little one. In an effort to help you. wc are providing: weekly activity bags for each child. These bags arc to be taken home or disposed of after each Joan Edna Rayner, age 84, of Hastings, passed away on August 23. 2020. She was bom on November 7, 1935. the daughter of Lyle and Dorothy (Johncock) Kingsbury. Joan was a 1954 Graduate of Delton High School. She worked at Hastings Manufacturing Company for 30 years and Pennock Hospital. On December 13. 1975, Joan married Gary Ellsworth Rayner, and they enjoyed 42 years together until his death in 2018. She enjoyed antiques, golf and music. Joan is preceded in death by her parents Lyle and Dorothy, her husband Gary and sisters Esther and Maxine. She is survived by her son Jason and sister-in-law Kathy Spencer. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, lo leave an online condolence, visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net. 328 Broac^ay, Hastings, MI 49058 269-945-3252 • www.girrbachfuncralhonic.net vnmg I Listings Barn < <»uim and Surrounding Communities lor 50 years HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of Who Jesus Is lb Thc World Around Us". J/frea dfiitaari&f ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH LIFTGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. 269-945-4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip. Mass 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Mass 8 and II a.m. Sunday. 301 E. State Rd.. P.O. Box 273. Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. ~ Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: w ww.lifcgatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Matt Moser. Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10.30 am. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30-8 p.m., Kids *4 Truth (Children Kindergarten-5th Grade). 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel-chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a ni. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities- call for information. CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, Ml 49050. Pastor. Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 10 a.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Thomapple Kellogg kids get half-days bonus Thornapple Kellogg Schools students began in-person learning Tuesday at the high school, middle school and three elementary buildings in Middleville. Then. hours into thc new school year, their parents received messages announcing that lhe remainder of the first week ot school /Xug. 26-28 - would consist of half days. A halfday had already been planned Friday, Aug. 28. but school officials decided to spare mask-wearing students and teachers a full Wednesday and Thursday in hot. humid class­ rooms with temperatures expected to climb over 90 degrees. Thomapple Kellogg Middle School, the newest building in the district, is the only building with air conditioning in the classrooms. Improvements from the $42.8 million bond district voters passed in 2019 will bring air-conditioning to all of the schools in lhe coming years. TK Virtual School students were able to pick up Chromcbook computers and other materials at the middle school Tuesday, and were set lo begin email communication with their teachers and to start learning more about the virtual learning program- 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Sen ices: Sunday, 9:45 a. nr 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616 690 8609. use This information on wor ship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Hastings, passed away after a 5-year courageous battle with EHE cancer Friday, Aug. 21.2020 at her home in Hastings. Lindsey was bom on December 17, 1991. thc daughter Bryan and Connie (Karmes) Williams. She was a 2010 graduate of Hastings High School and Davenport University in 2015. She worked at McDonald’s. County Scat. Old Marsh Golt dub. Little Harbor Club, and D&S Machine Repair. Lindsey’s entire family was important to her: she especially loved her mama, her pops, her bubbles and “sisters”. In addition, she loved her D&S family as they offered so much support to her over thc past few years. Lindsey’s hobbies included watching Hallmark Channel, shopping, makeup and cheerleading. She started cheerleading when she was five years old and continued to cheer through her senior year in the Hastings school system. After graduating from Davenport University. Lindsey continued to assist her mom in coaching competitive cheer. She was a member of Thomapple Valley Church and accepted the Lord as her Savior. With her illness, she was not always able to attend in-person, but faithfully attended virtually. Lindsey is preceded in death by her grandmother Leann Trcwhella: grandfather Janies Williams; grandmother Sandra Karmes; great-grandparents Willard and Fem Lind. William and Geneva Mallekoote, and cousin Derek Williams. She is survived by her parents Bryan and Connie (Karmes) Williams; brothers, Tyler (Cinthia) Williams, Dylan Williams; grandparents, Robert Royer, Louis Karmes and Diane Williams, and many uncles, aunts, and cousins Lindsey battled this very rare form of cancer that has had limited research. In lieu of flowers, she would have wanted donations to be made in her memory to The EHE Foundation at https://fightehe.org/donatenow/ or 1561 Hopi Court; Hobart, WI 54313. Her service w as held on Wednesday. Aug. 26. 2020 at Thomapple Valley Church, 2750 M-43, Hastings. MI 49058. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. Io leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. In thc front page article on free COVID-19 testing in Hastings, three law enforcement officers who assisted al the event at Spectrum Health Pennock Urgent Care on Aug. 18 should have been identified in The Banner as reserve officers from Hastings City Police. City of Hastings SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd, P.O. Box 765, (comer of Milo Rd. & S. M-43) Delton. Ml 49(M6 Pastor Roger Claypool. (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11:30am, Nursery and ( hildren s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 to 7:30 pm. Marjory Elaine Turnes-Maynard, age 88. of Dowling, passed away T uesday, Aug. 18. 2020 at Specialty Hospital in Battle Creek. She was born on September 29, 1931 in Hastings to August and Eva (Smith) Tunics. She was the oldest of nine children. Marjory was a 1949 graduate of Hastings High School. She was an office worker al E.W. Bliss. General Finance and Associated Truck Lines. She also sold Artex. Marjory married Kenneth Ray Maynard on October 13, 1979. He preceded her in death in 2008. She loved making and giving homemade cards and taking pictures and making picture books for all of her family and friends. She was a member of St. Rose Catholic Church in Hastings. She was also a member of the Catholic Daughters and BPW for many years. Marjory was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sisters. Marilyn Ignatiades and Beverly DeWitt, brothers August, Jr. and David Tunics; sisters-in-law, Jean. Marilyn and Eleanor Tunics; brother-in-law, Al Ignatiades; niece, Kathy Tumes, and nephews, Matthew and Jon Turnes and Dennis DeWitt. She is survived by brother, Charles (Pat) Tumes of Hastings; sisters. Elizabeth (Ken) Haight, Mary Turnes and Patricia (Bob) Filhnghatn. all of Hastings, many nieces and nephews also many step-nieces and nephews, special friends, Denise Gam and Jun Mellen. Memorial contributions may be made lo the charity of one’s choice. Services for Marjory were held Monday, Aug. 24, 2020 at St. Rose Catholic Church in Hastings and was broadcast live at https:// www.facebook .com/GirrbachFuneralHome. You do not need a Facebook /Xccount to view it. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. Position Available Department of Public Services Operator The Citv aF Hastings is accepting applications for one (1) Operator position within the Hastings Deoartmonr af Public q Position will be full time with benefits with a 12 month probationary period AdoS™ » u accepted^yi Friday- September 4, 2020 at 5:00 PM. Applications will be Min-,*. «>ments include a high school diploma or GED. A Commercial Driver's Licenw rmi \ .... Stat?11?1 re2U ??with an "A" endorsement and air brakes is preferred. Candidate must oass L 'd ln the State of Michigan jca| and backqround check le nlust Pass a drug/alcohol screen, Pre-emp|0Vm Wan» . the Operator position is $14.93 to $20.98 per hour, depending on qualifvina eynA,io„ a resu?rate f°r Hl professionai references, and completed employment application to the Citv m ? Send esume, three (3) P gs Michigan, 49058. Applications can be found on the City websiHr?f Ha!tln9s- 2°1 «« State Street, Ha* lty webstte (www.hastingsmi. 0,9) or picked up a w A . nation form and full job description are available upon request. Questions -aa^.u ^OuWtadTectS t°Jer,v Oarnecki' citY Manager, 269-945-2468 or jaarnt^ahasti^^^9 this Position 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 1699W.M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 1301 W. Green st. Hastings 945-9541 The City of Hastings is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 146 £^^urer/^;^n �Fhe Hastings Banner — Thursday. August 27, 2020 — Page 7 ' look back at the stories an(! columns on local history ih the Hastings Banner TURNING back the PAGES Major Anderson, the Kalamazoo «astags and Lowell Railroad This map sh°^S rat!'r°^cls ,n Michigan as of 1848, along with steamboat routes on the Great Lakes. The image was drawn and engraved for D •.* * . 00 . reaa v,'hen the first passenger tram, one from the Grand River Valley ir . arrived in Hastings Feb. 22. 1869. School was closed for the event, but Cook an mos o his classmates - and the rest of the town - were at the State Street depot o wi ness the event. Trains from the Chicago, Kalamazoo and Saginaw railroad (picure ) would later follow a course first planned by "Major" George M. Anderson for a different rail company. (File photo) Ixmgtiinc Banner co-owner and editor Marshall L. Cook (1858-1855) was as excited as everyone else when the first train rolled through Hastings in February 1869. The Grand River Valley Railroad was the first railroad company to lay tracks here, and Cook was 11 when he and seemingly the rest of the town witnessed its arrival after about a decade of planning and work. Cook also recalled a train that never arrived - the Kalamazoo. Hastings and Lowell Railroad - despite the work of a remarkable, kind and good-humored visitor. “Major" George M. Anderson. Cook wrote about the honorable solicitor in the mid-1900s, and the piece was printed in lhe Banner's “Fresh Out of the Attic" column, likely in the 1960s. With today’s online access to historical publication, bits of information on the KH&L railroad can be found in newspapers such as the Paw Paw True Northerner, Alma Record, Hillsdale Standard, and Cheboygan’s Northern Tribune. Most of the articles mention very brief news about the company forming, purchasing bonds, predicting the start of grading or similar snippets. Few of them, how ever, mention Anderson. His common name and frequent relocation also make it challenging to find anything more about lhe man than what Cook wrote. Cook didn’t indicate the years when Anderson was in Hastings. However. M. Agnes Burton noted in “The Michigan Pioneer and Historical Society’’ 1891 publication, that the KH&L was organized in 1873. The above newspapers made references to the company as late as April 1878. Perhaps Anderson had moved on by then because The True Northerner credited his “indefatigable labors" fora railroad starting up in Marshall in 1876. The Alma Record referred to Anderson as lhe railroad evangelist" in a brief new roundup as late as June 5, 1891 when he was raising funds for y et another rail line. Thc type of rail line likely is what ultimately derailed the KH&L project. A Width of 4 feet. 8 S4 inches is considered standard gauge in railroads. W tracks are 3 feel. 6 inches apart. The KH&L io be the narrow-gauge variety. In i May I- 2006, article for Iranis George W. Hilton wrote that i? Fairlic a Scottish engineer, suggested ‘ M .ha. a narrower gauge railroad would • smaller equipment and thereby lead o savings. At the time, private earners C .rvin- mines, timber companies and factories -re "using narrow-gauge rails. I iurhe s f dn’t hold up. Hilton wrote; wider (heory d'dn CC(Mlollljcal. And a standaid System was more convenient, as Cook later 11 ^rrow-auge movement lasted alx.ut r> yean. from 1872 to 1885. according to . Alderson'S efforts. the KH&L C,"|j\nowabom Andctwin or Hie tram that the city. to Hastings and be interesting It may read about the jv folks to Barry County a railroad was under which condition »years ago, from projected mote than 60 Kalamazoo through Hastings to Lowell. It was called the Kalamazoo. Hastings and Lowell (and Northern Michigan was added later) Railroad and was planned to be a narrow-gauge line because it was thought it could be built for far Jess money, also save in operating costs. Connected with the early history’ of that proposed road was a very interesting, in many ways remarkable, character. George M. Anderson, familiarly known as Major Anderson, who made his headquarters in this city while soliciting aid to help finance the project. The Interstate Commerce Commission for many years has prevented discrimination by fixing and controlling transportation rates, so we cannot realize the plight in w hich a town found itself 60 years ago. that had only one railroad; or if there were two, if both were under the same control. Then railroads fixed their own charges, and a one-railroad town was heavily discriminated against freight and passenger rates. For instance, Hastings merchants, buy ing goods in New York City, then shipped them to Grand Rapids, and paid lhe local rate from that city back to Hastings, thereby saving money because the through rate from New York to Grand Rapids was so much less than from New York to Hastings. When the Banner office burned down in thc winter of 1884, we had to order a new job press from New Haven. Conn. It was shipped on the Grand Trunk to Charlotte and on the Michigan Central from Charlotte to Hastings. One can realize how eager towns like Hastings and Lowell would be to get another railroad, thus securing competitive rates. Leading citizens of Kalamazoo, Hastings and Lowell were interested in the building of lhe KH&L line. Kalamazoo did not need it lo get lower rales, because it had three competing railroads; but its citizens desired another road because they believed it would bring more business lo that city. Hastings and Lowell were eager for il because they were onerailroad towns. A new railroad was secured those days usually by having a local company build it, some large railroad corporation usually advancing the money. Only the insiders knew where the money came from. When completed, it would be taken over by the larger system. I hc Michigan Central, the bike Shore and the Grand Rapids and Indiana were then separate lines. Now, the first two are part of the New York Central, and Grand Rapids and Indiana is owned by the Pennsylvania system. When the Kalamazoo. Hastings and Uiwell road was projected, it was believed that one of the three railroads then serving Kalamazoo would be glad to finance it and take it over after it was built; if not. only a few miles from Kalamazoo was the Grand Trunk — a good prospect. Under such conditions, the local backers felt sure that one of the four lines would furnish the cash to complete the KH&L. . Il was the custom at that time, when a new railroad was planned, to solicit aid from the citizens of towns and rural areas through which il would pass. They were requested to give cash or notes. If the right of way of the projected line crossed a farm, it was expected the owner would lx* induced to donate the necessary land. In this manner, it w as planned that enough aid would lx* obtained locally to 99 ailroad Guide and Gazetteer." (Library of Congress image) gel the right of way and p4y tor llle grai]jng making the line ready forties and rails. The tics, rails and the rolling S(ock arc the big items in the cost of a railroad. These |Klj |() provided by the original company or by the railroad that backed it. Usually a solicitor was employed to secure the local gifts of cash, notes and deeds of right of way. Il was not expected that he would do all that work, but that he would so organize the citizens of each community that their leaders would help him \^hen so requested, and they often did. The KH&L line was never completed, since no large railroad would back it. That probably was due to the fact that it was planned and graded for narrow gauge line, while the big roads were all standard gauge. Freight coming over narrow gauge would have to be loaded from the smaller cars, transported to and loaded on larger cars of the standard gauge connecting line, instead of being switched from one line to the other. This would mean much added expense. Probably that was why none of the four roads mentioned would finance the building of this narrow-gauge line. Just how the directors of thc KH&L came to select Major Anderson ^solicitor, we do not know, but he was an ideal choice for that job. He had been successful in such work for other railroads; had also solicited the money to build lhe “Anderson House.” a fine hotel in Eaton Rapids name in his honor (built in 1874. destroy ed by fire in 1911; a marker can be found in that city today]. He knew the technique for getting money to aid public enterprises. Major Anderson was a typical Scotchman, fully 6 1/2 feet tall, broad-shouldered, fine looking, a splendid specimen of rugged. Scotch manhood. His appearance was impressive as he walked briskly and erectly along thc street. He was always well-dressed, wore a stylish stove-pipe hat; his hair and long beard were brown and neatly trimmed. He usually carried a cane. He had a pleasant smile and a hearty greeting for everybody. He had a remarkable memory, could call folks by their right names and was always pleased to see them. He was shrewd, tactful, lhe soul of integrity and honor, and had a fine sense of humor. He scorned deception, believed in his work, was kind, w'itty, goodhumored. persuasive — also a keen, accurate judge of lhe folks he met. Major Anderson made Hastings his headquarters while working for the KH&L. He was paid a small commission on the money and notes he secured and would have received a very substantial sum in addition, had thc road been completed. As it was, his pay was only nominal. The leaders of the Hastings group who wanted the railroad soon came to love the hearty solicitor. He was always welcome in their homes., was frequently invited for weekends and at other times, They realized that his pay was small unless the road was completed, and that his was a lonely job and a hard task. He was always a favored guest — courteous, a fine conversationalist, straight thinker, a man ol strong convictions, yet always genial and fond ot good, clean, funny stories and how to tell them entertainingly. He enjoyed folks, and Hastings folks liked him. I remember that my father | David R. Cook] was deeply interested in having the KH&L project carried through. Major Anderson was often a guest jn uur home. Father loaned him our family horse and buggy, which he used for months at a time in his w ork as solicitor. It was a privilege to hear him tell his experiences, lor his comments Were always enjoyable. 1 remember that his favorite item of l<xxl was Potatoes with the jackets on." M> mother Martha] saw lhal potatoes cooked as he ikvd wciv. a parl ol |hc dinner, which people then ate at 1KX)n jnstead was bound to turn into the yard. The Major was very thorough in his canvassing, didn’t skip anyone; and our horse had adjusted its movements to lhe Major’s ways. Another Hastings Home where Major Anderson was always most welcome was that of Dr. C.S. Burton \Banner founder, featured in this column May 8, 2O2OJ. an enthusiastic booster for the KH&L. He and lhe Major w ere the warmest of friends, very congenial companions. Many can remember Dr. Burton, his hearty laugh, his peculiar but straightforward ways. He was a likable man who kept every agreement, whose word was as good as a government bond. He was a keen, shrewd business man as well as a good doctor. In his later years. Dr. Burton loaned large sums of money on chattel security to men who could not borrow a dollar at a bank nor from any other person. He helped many who needed it. for no one else would think of taking the chances lhe doctor did. and many of lhe borrowers appreciated lhe fact that he was giving them aid they knew they could not obtain from any other source. The Major would .stay for days at a time at the doctor’s home, and the doctor and Mrs; Burton made him realize he was a welcome guest. L Dr. Bunon was a homeopath physician. It will be remembered by those familiar with the homeopathic practice in those days that such doctors prepared their medicines so they were palatable. They had the medicines absorbed in "sugar of milk” tablets. So, when anyone went lo Dr. Burton for medical help., he would take from the shelf the proper bottle, labeled with a number, get some sugar of milk tablets, put them in a small bottle and pour enough medicine on them so that it would be absorbed into each tablet. Major Anderson used to tell how he became so familiar with the doctor’s medicines that he knew just what they would accomplish. When the doctor happened to be away and the Major was in his home or his office, he could deal out lhe right dosage for the usual ailments. The Major said No. 1 was for chills and fever, which were quite prevalent in certain seasons. No. 2 was for indigestion; No. 3 was for general debility, etc. The Major said when a patient came into the doctors’ office while he was in charge, he would always ask where he was from, and added that it the patient said he can from Cedar Creek, he always gave them No. 3. One day lhe major was driving our Old Charley and had reached the lop of a high hili in the township of I lope. The road was narrow on the upgrade. He saw a rig coming slowly up the hill, so the Major waited at the top for the team to pass. As lhe span and wagor^j approached, the Major ey ed them closely. Thq, wheels of the wagon were wobbly. H coulcj, count the ribs of the old horses. The harness* was a toggled mess of rope and leather. When^ the slow-moving rig finally reached the top,*, thc Major stopped lhe driver, saying. “Hello* neighbor,” I want to as you a question.” -»• “All right,” said lhe man. “Fire away." The Mayor inquired “Does Dr. Burton, have a chattel mortgage on that outfit?” J "You are d-n right, he has,” lhe man answered. The Major seemed to have an intuitioiy, sense of a “prospect” for a funny experience.r I have heard my father tell how he and the Major were walking along a business street in Detroit when the Grand Army of the Republic was holding a reunion in that city. The Major, noticed approaching them an odd-lookingj middle-aged chap, wearing thc uniform of aj Union soldier, a diminutive Irishman, who] had several medals pinned onto his coal. As! he drew’ near, the Major stopped, bowed, took^ off his hat and said: “How do you doCorporal?” 1 He didn’t have to wait long for a response. “J’m no corporal. I am Captain Mulv.yaeyi 6f Napoleon's GtttrtfcZ’ * ’ “Indeed,” said the Major, “I am glao«ii( meet you.” And he shook his hand heartily; 4 The man added: “Yes, sir, I remember well the Battle of Waterloo. Before we began lhatj fight, Napoleon rode up on his charger and] stopped in front of my company. In a loud; voice, he asked, ‘Is Captain Mulvaney in! line?’ I stepped three paces forward, then] turned lo my right, faced the commander and] said. ‘He is. Sir.’ Napoleon then turned to hisj generals and shouted, ‘Captain Mulvaney IS; in line; let the battle proceed.’” , Father and Major nearly died of apoplexy! laughing over the serious manner in which] "Captain Mulvaney mentioned lhe incident.] when il was so evident that he was bom after] that battle was fought. He must have kissed) lhe Blarney Stone, all right The many friends of Major Anderson) always remember his kindness, his interest in) folks, his good humor, keen wit. his sincerity.] and his impressive ways of saying and doing] things. It was unfortunate that he never’ received from any source adequate pay for the hard, grueling work he did in soliciting aid for the Kalamazoo, Hastings and Lowell Railroad: but he never complained. He always appreciated lhe many warm friends he had made in Hastings during the long period he! labored here as a solicitor. ] I See TURNING, page 9: RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP 2020 TAX ALLOCATION NOTICE The Rutland Charter Township Board will discuss for approval the 2020 tax allocation rate proposed to be levied lor lhe year 2020 at its regularboardmeebng to be held on Wednesday, September 9. 2020. at 7:00 p.m. at the Rutland Charter Townsh.p Hall, 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, Michigan. This notice is posted in compliance with PA 267 of 1976 as amended (Open Meetings Act), MCLA 41 72a(2) (3) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) t The Rutland Charter Township Board will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers lor the hearing impaired and audtotapes o °' v the meeting, with disabilities at printed materials bo.ng conned at the o individuals 9 the mee inq/Tiearinq upon seven u / J t Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxil ay a.ds or services should contact the Clerk at the address or telephono number hsted below. °* ’ Afcr’ihe Ma.l"f ,cll|""'|.n!'7’we sli" lliul Robin J Hawthorne, Clerk Rutland Charter Township Old Charley as our Ml) horse. l or a considerable time atty ■ ajl)r wcnl ,lwa>. Whenever we dr<«« «»‘’ntry. we had trouble to get Ohl < hurl , p.lss a house. He 2461 Heath Road Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-2194 1-16486 �Page 8 - Thursday, AugUS| 27,2020_ Thfl GARLOCK, from page 1 some fire. “I’ve only had one ticket so far That one was more than -IO years ago'in Ionia, site said. b n ••Dtere were four red lights, and I stopix.(1 lor three of them. H Garlock has cut back on her driving Uxntgh. pointing out that she no longer drives at night or on a freeway and, latch she’s “invited" her two daughters to drive for her That comes tn handy, especially on deadline day when she has to have her typewritten fin ished copy of the “Lake Odessa Neus’delivcred lo Hastings for publication in that week’s Banner. ' The pieces are usually filled with the news of retirements and ice cream socials, family celebrations and the progress of the local drop, be it strawberries or green beans. Garlock takes pnde, though, in providing something far beyond the local gossip col­ umns of old which chronicled “who went where for Sunday dinner.” ”1 have dealt with local historyshe said. “Many limes, I’ve even helped people with their own family history finding sources from microfilm or the actual newspaper of their grandfather s obituary or the local gossip col­ umn that told who came to grandfather’s funeral.” In recent weeks, Garlock has educated her readers on how long it takes for thc berries of elderberry bushes to turn purple and ripe, and Vic history of how the Lakewood Public Schools was formed through consolidation. She’s not above some editorial opinion, cither, pointing out how her church, which had been open for worship for the entire month of July, had to lx* closed again “following the latest edict issued by the governor.” ' Elaine Garlock has always been a force with which to be reckoned. /Xftcr helping to compose the column for five years when the type writer of her predecessor. Ruth Peterman, broke, Garlock marched into the office of the Banner's then-editor after Peterman was con­ fined to a nursing home and subsequently passed away in 1991 at age 93. “I knew a lot of people read the column and I wondered what was going to happen,” parlock recounted. Her tenacity - and five years of ghost writ­ ing - led to her name being at the top of the column in thc early 1990s. Writing has always been a natural skill for Garlock, product of a generation that kept in touch through letter writing. In addition to penning thc “Lake Odessa News” every week, ecping up with her memberships in various organizations, and raising a family of five hildren with her late husband Merton, Jarlock also once maintained an ongoing Correspondence with 10 different relatives in 0 different locations in England, her family’s birthplace. “Back in the day, people wrote, they were ftter writers,” said Kay Barcroft, one of Jarlock’s two daughters who live nearby. Her mother was a rural school teacher Lx*fore ihe got married, and I think she and my mom kl^u\Tof^nnnTE!A M'y Uktly'thrfirH Maine Carlock, lhe Banner". ,"n'en’ri»" ron.rlbntor In f . hktory, in her rundown of ^suiLuke Odessa, she hod "^opportunity to write about "er own birthday celebration.) Taylor Owens Elaine Garlock receives a tribute from state oniciais Sunday in Lake Odessa at a celebration of her 100th birthday. Former Lt. Gov. Brian Calley presented the tribute on behalf of his wife, State Rep. Julie Calley. (Photo by Ann DeHoog) just loved literature.” . And the feel of a typewriter. Garlock said her relationship with the typewriter is simply a “matter of convenience, and my typing is better than my handwriting.” There may be, however, a little pique still remaining with a former editor who goaded her about not using a modem-age computer. “He said I should get with it and join the 2Qih century.” she chuckled. “Let’s just say it’s hard to teach an old dog new tricks.” In a pinch, though. Garlock has used lhe computer at lhe Lake Odessa Community Library and faxed her column to Hastings from there, though daughter Kay still doesn’t “know how she did that.” More typical. Barcroft said, is driving the copy to Hastings after struggling with the tedium of every week’s Tuesday deadline because her mother is sometimes a procrasti­ nator. Though missing a deadline has been rare, Garlock said there has always been a reason. “Well this winter, there was nothing to write about.” she said of the downtime in March when the state first shut down because of the pandemic. “There w ere no meetings, no church services, nothing. The content of w hat I ordinarily write about just evaporated, and there wasn’t a column for a couple straight has been researched, in part, right here in 5m# Writer I fastings is being authorized for use across the (’ A treatment method for COVID-19 which country. NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF INCREASE IN SEPTAGE RATES GUN LAKE AREA SEWER AUTHORITY PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT pursuant to the Septage Waste Services Law, the Gun Lake Area Sewer Authority adopted the following resolution raising septage rates: RESOLUTION TO INCREASE SEPTAGE RATES (Resolution Number 1- 2020) Gun Lake Area Sewer Authority Counties of Allegan and Barry, Michigan Minutes of a Regular Meeting of the Board of the Gun Lake Area Sewer Author­ ity. Counties of Allegan and Barry, Michigan (the “Authority”) held on the 2nd day of July, 2020. at 7 o’clock p.m. Eastern Daylight Time. PRESENT: Members Mr- Glenn Leep, Martin Township Ms. Alice Jansma, Yankee Springs Township Mr. Roger VanVolkinburg, Wayland Township Mr. Tom Rook, Orangeville Township The following preamble and resolution was offered by Ms. Jansma and supported by Mr. Rook: WHFREAS, as an authorized MDEQ Septage Receiving facility, there is a need to increase septage gallonage fees by reason ol a large capital expenditure to process the septagc intake from area septage haulers. IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED THAT: Wastewater Treatment Plant under the ownership ami control of the Gun -I Sewer & Water Authority Board shall henceforth increase the treatment r1 < r nraee received from ($.075) to ($.10) per gallon, which mcludes operation. J cosb to pmcess and dispose of the septagc and shall be posted m accordance to the r I Th.. i Ar Elaine Garlock r heldTsLa"""1 Mc,h<xlib' Church “P»n weeks.” As for how lOflg she’ll keep her writing stint going,Garlock lunis the tables. “1 haven t set deadline on that one, yet.” In lhe meantime, hhe still has important news to cover, primarily the gala celebration her family planned for her this past Sunday at the Lake Odessa Depot Museum. A “walk­ through ’ birthday parly |ulcj safety protocol and restricted attendance (by executive order). “Oh, I haven t thought about it.” Garlock said last week of how she would handle thc coverage. “It will minimal. 1 might say where somebody came from. I’m thinking a grandson is coming from New Hampshire." What may give her the most joy. though, was a display of photographs behind which she came up with her own discovery and story. “My daughter had assembled three sets of pictures for my 90”1 birthday party,” she said with a lilt in her voice.“When 1 found out she never got rid of them,I knew she was saving them for my funerakfr’ow she’s getting them out for my l(X)lh birthday party, and she’ll probably still use them at my funeral - she’ll get to use those same photographs three times!” ’ ’• Ji Always an angle to a story, and Elaine Garlock is one of the Ixrst. JFDA approves emergency use jfor COVID-19 plasma treatment I """h rhe U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an emergency use authorization for convalescent plasma treatment for patients with COVID-19 Sunday. “Based on scientific evidence available," the FDA said in a press release, "this product may be effective in treating COVID-19.” The FDA further concluded “the known and potential benefits of the product outweigh the known and potential risks of the product.” The treatment involves taking blood from a recovered CO VID-19 patient, filtering out the blood cells, and transfusing it to someone fighting the disease. The hope is that blood antibodies, created to fight the virus by lhe original patient, will start fighting the virus in the new patient. An expanded access program overseen by the Mayo Clinic allowed nearly 14,000 physi­ cians across the country to use the treatment for 71.000 patients, and to research whether it could be a viable strategy to figl’1 COVID-19. .Some of that research has been happening al Spectrum Health Pennock. . Dr. Fergus Peacock, a hospilalist at Pennock, has been treating patients with plas­ ma since last April. As of last June more .han 20W) patients had received the experimental treatment, according to a study released by Mayo Clinic. The study also concluded that “use of conva­ lescent plasma is safe and earries no excess risk of complications.. Everything js jooki|,„ real good, ^ock said at the time "|'m optimis'* Uns will move forward and be a viable strategy.More definitive r indoini?ed- double blind studies Of the ln, ha,e yet •<> «>*■ Pleted. which makes it difficult to de ermine the actual efTectiVe..,. ' of plastna 1,1 f,Sh,,n8 Enrollment in the Mayo Clinic’s expanded access program is being discontinued now emergency J’e amhori*'"011 10r cans has been granted. sidewalk with ',,C lronI law” and sound h Rhourd music, excellent Plan ”"d frc5h airhe '*>' hymn k “ We?,hcr pennils Ou,side- one awhino. W,IT W',rr>' abou' tram. B *° ‘h,C W,nd- An>' "Oise from passing to' 5 ' "nply ?lninor distraction. It is great <o again see one’s fellow parishioners. OV1“n,inue lo an attraction all eki i Jcn>'iU,d Jan Casarcz have a speial display on their corner by the curb. Thc depot lawn has a wide array of blooms, thanks to the Lake Odessa Garden Club whose loyal Z.nt|ber!i u“-R.,hc Wccds awa>' and P'-mts deadheaded, lhe curbside flowers of Jerry’s ’re along Jordan Lake Highway next to the tracks remain very' showy.’Hie lake lawn on Washington Boulevard is very attractive. Drivers along Emerson Street Sunday after­ A crown and at party at the historic noon would have seen many vehicles in the Lake Odessa Depot Museum make the depot parking lot with dealership tags from 100th birthday complete for Elaine places as far away as Pinckney. Big Rapids. Garlock. (Photo by Ann DeHoog) Kalamazoo, Clawson, Ithaca. Traverse City and Akron.’Ihe occasion was the lOOih birth­ Bauer of Ithaca, a decorated veteran of World day party for a local lady whose four children, War II who was one of lhe Iron Men of Metz six grandchildren, many cousins and local in the 84lh Division. He brought along copies friends came. of his book to give the guest of honor and her Tlie exterior of the depot had mounted children. large posters with each representing a decade He had been inducted into Army service in of her life with photos, her worn-out typewrit­ January 1943. along with Elaine Garlock’s ers, high chair, baby apparel and school text­ young brother. Rolland Hill of Carson City. books. There was plenty of text lo read and Since then.Ceo has returned to France several photos to sec showing styles from the past times. Each lime,he visits the U.S. Normandy 100 years.. cemetery near the landing site of the June 6. The guest of honor was seated inside the 1944. European invasion. Ceo and Rolland depot at an open doorway with protective arrived a month later. Rolland was in France glass panel to avoid germs, and then back in for one week before his death. Elaine Garlock hosted her family Sunday the parking lot was an ice cream track and for their evening meal, which was a chicken tables of cupcakes. Toward the end of lhe time, Brian Calley dinner, thanks to the Lions Club barbecue at and Ben Geiger appeared. Brian was bringing, ihe lakeside park. Somebody from thc club on behalf of his wife who is the stale repre­ delivered 22 dinners to her house for lhe sentative, a proclamation signed by the gover­ assembled family to enjoy. The Lions this time ordered 1200 chicken nor, lieutenant governor and Julie Calley. At that point there was quite an assortment of halves bartxcued in July. They ordered 950 and ran out. This time they sold IJ050 dinners cameras. One notable guest was 96-year-old Ceo and then easily sold thc remaining 150 halves. Police warn city park scofflaws Greg Chandler Staff Writer Hastings police are sending a message to users of city parks along the Thomapple River: Straighten up or face citations. Police Chief Jeff Pratt posted a message on thc police department’s Facebook page Saturday, saying lhe department was taking a “zero tolerance” position on parking, alcohol, marijuana and disorderly persons. Pratt has assigned "directed patrols” to park space along the river to keep an eye on any unruly individuals. “We were receiving many complaints from citizens and homeowners who live along the river.” Pratt said Monday in a telephone interview. “We fell il was necessary to take a proactive approach in dealing with this situation." 'Hie river has been getting extensive use by boaters, kayakers and tubers over the past several weeks due to the hot. dry' weather conditions. “Thc tubers seem to lx the people causing thc most issues.” Pratt said. The social media message seems to be working for lhe moment. Pratt said officers wrote up fewer than six citations over the weekend. While some commenters on the social media post complained that the majority of people causing problems along lhe river are from out of town, Pratt isn’t necessarily buying that argument. He said the goal ol the Facebook |>ost was to educate people on the situation. “We don’t want to write tickets," he said, Pratt said the department will continue to have directed patrols along the river this weekend and next weekend, which is Labor Day weekend. City of Hastings FEWEST FOR BIDS Sal® of Vehicles The City of Hastings will accept bids for the sale of two pickup trucks. Truck #202010:2020 Dark Sky Metallic 2500 HD 10 speed auto trans/ 2329.00 miles'VIN MGT49MEY8LF186062/ Minimum bid $47,990 Salvage Title/Minimum bid $40,000 u- i enW in ’’as-is” condition without any warranty. These vehicle «HI be sold in as is 269-945-2468 Arrangements to view this venicie / weekdays between the hours of 8:00 AM • tu t th* noht to reject any and all bids, to waive Lhe ^L? ^b"9LvSb d and to award the bid in a manner that the City any irregularities in any bid. ana Q(her fac|o|S consideied Blds wi)| deems to be in rts best interes Cjty C|e,kn-reasure, 201 East S(a(e be received at the■o,( °0 unln 9:po AM on Thursday, September 3, S'at which time they shall be opened and publicly read aloud. determination of the Board. Roll Call Vote: Ay,;S: Members: Mr. Leep, Mr. Rook, Mr. VanVolkrnburg and Ms. Jansma NAYS: Members: none RESOLUTION DECLARED ADOPT ED. Call 269-945-9554 „ < , u forms or documents are required, but all bids must be in No formal bidding sealed bids must be clearly marked on the outside ■«*«■> •» - -- •...... — for Hastings Banner ads Jane M. Saurman City Clerk/Tteasurer 14«e.’o �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 27, 2020 — Png- 9 We STATE OF michIQan NOTICE TO THE RESIDENTS OF BARRY COUNTY NohCT. f£ hereby givon that BaRy Coupty ? Board of Appeals will conduct a pubhc hearing for JoAnne DeRuyscher to celebrate 77 th birthday JoAnne (Eicbenouer) turning 77 / / on August 29. 29. 2020. Cards may be mailed to: 15095 Brooklodge, Hickory' Comers, Ml 49060. No gills please. the following Case Number V-6-2020 - Victoria Leo (Property Owner) 7 Location: 4959 North Bay Road. Delton, in Sec­ tion 4 of Bany Township '>>Py.rpOSO: Re4UG-l a variance !o construct a 24x24 garage wrth a side yard setback of 4 fl (lhe m.nimum is 10 ft) in tho RL (Recreational Lakes) zoning district. Case Number V-7-2020 - Lee & Amy Jarvle (Property Owners) Location: 2750 Eckert Road. Freeport, in Section 2 of Irving Township. Purpose: Request a variance to construct a 56x35 wraparound porch and gazebo with a front yard setback of 70 It from the center of thc road (the minimum is 83 ft) in tho RR (Rural Residential) zon­ ing district. MEETING DATE: September 14, 2020. TIME: 7:00 PM. PLACE: Tydcn Center Community Room, 121 South Church Street Hastings, Michi­ gan 49058 Site inspections of lhe above described properties will bo completed by the Zoning Board of Appeals members before the hearing. Interested persons desiring to present their views upon an appeal, either verbally or in wnting, will be given lhe opportunity to be heard at tho above mentioned time and place Any written response may be mailed to tho address listed below, faxed to (269) 948-4820. or emailed to Barry County Planning Director James McManus at jmcni3niJ5ji?biiriY£Qunfy.prg Thc vanance applications are available for public inspection at the Barry County Planning Department. 220 West State Street. Hastings. Michigan 49058. during tho hours of 8 a m to 5 p m. Monday - Friday Please call the Barry County Planning Department at (269) 945-1290 for further information. The County of Barry will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for tho hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/heanng upon ten (10) days notice to the County of Barry. Individuals w.th disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Barry by writing or calLng the following. Michael Brown. County Administrator, 220 West State Street. Hastings, Michigan 49058, (269) 945-1284. Pamela A Palmer, Barry County Clerk 146355 PROBATE COURT­ COUNTY of BARHY notice to creditors peecdont■■Eilat, Fll£N0.20-2asa4.DE claims againJ Darien^ *OfOv^ barred unless P'csen,f„. Jv0, or |0 t -Welters, personal rcp^S i court Street n,°h ,he probate court 01mi XTo date ol puMication ol thls months Date: 08/20/2020 ^tX^t^iteio, Hastings. Michigan 49058 (269) 945-3512 Darlene Harris-Wettcrs 217 West State Road. AP'-' Hastings. Michigan 49058 (269) 908-0969 146361 TRUST Re: Thomas P. DayJust u/a/q October 12 2005 TO ALL CREDITORS: ^-2005. The Grantor. Thomas r. Day, (datG f b 21. 1933). who lived at 3953 Gran^ ^rch Shelbyville, Ml 49344 d.ed June 26,2020. Them r’ no personal representative of the d -» to whom Letters of Authority have been issued Creditors of the decedent are notjfled tha| claims against the Thomas p- Day Trust dat^d October 12, 2005, will be forever barred unle<-«' presented to the Trustee, within fCur mont^ after tho date of publication. Notice is further given that the trust will thereafter be assigned and distnbuted to the persons entitled to it. Dated: August21,2020 Attorney: Andrea E. Snyder (P8132 7) Rhoades McKee PC 55 Campau Ave. NW, Suite 300 Grand Rapids. Ml 49503 (616) 235-3500 Trustee: Dolores M. Day 3953 Grandview Drive Shelbyville. Ml 49344 146353 Synopsis Hope Township Regular Board meeting August 10, 2020 Meet-ng opened at 6 30pm Approved: Consent agenda Resolut>on Wall Lake Weed Control Resolution Healthy Walers Alliance Weed Control Principal payment for CLL Sewer Request BC BOC lo appoint A! Gemrich BC Conservation Easement Board Adjourned at 6:44 pm Submitted by: Deborah Jackson. Clerk Attested to by Mark S. Feldpausch, Supervisor SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING August 12, 2020 - 7:00 p.m. Regular meeting called to order and Pledge f Allegiance. Preconi. Bellmore. Spencer, James. Walter Watson. Hawthorne Grecrf-nld Approved the Agenda Approved tho Consent Agenda Monthly Treasurer's Report Monthly Clerk's Vouc^nr/^ayro'l Report Anti-Bl.ght Ordinance Dtscu >s;on Road Millage Discuss on Adjournment 8 06 p m Respectfully submitted. Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Attested to by. Larry Watson. Supervisor 146354 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENT’S TRUST Namo of Trust: Robert Leo and Patsy Ann Chaffee Trust. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: Tho decedent, Patsy Ann Chaffee, who lived at 8080 E. Day Rd., Bellevue, Ml 49021. Died 8-8-2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the decedent and tho trust described below will bo forever barred unless presented to: Dianna Wood (Trustee), 11450 Spencer Rd., Saginaw, Ml 48609 within 4 months after the date of publication of hti snotice. Date: 8-20-2020 Diana Wood 11450 Spencer Rd. Saginaw, Ml 48609 (989) 284-8607 146293 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY PUBLICATION OF NOTICE ' RLE NO. 20-028568-01-DE In Hhj matter of Kenne‘h Wade Wood. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: whose addres$(f.'•) are unknown and whose interest In the matter may t> barred or affected by the following: * TAKE NOTICE: • NOTICE TO ALL CREDITORS: The decider!, Kenneth Wade Wood. DOB 9-18-70, died June 29.2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all cla'r? against h:m shall forever be barred unless presented "S Robin Mains, 8 Bennett St., Qu:ncy, Ml 49092.517-9934 1421. (Personal Representative) within 4 months aft- r date of publication of th snotice. Date: 8-19-2020 Robin Mains 8 Bennett St. Quincy, Ml 49082 517-993-1421 146297 TURNING, continued from page 7 All that remained after he left here, to show for his hard work, was thc right of way through pans of Kalamazoo and Kent counties and all of Barry, and the grading for a narrow­ gauge road bed most of thc way from Kalamazoo to Lowell, which was paid for with thc money solicited. That part of the road bed between Kalamazoo and Hastings was utilized by the CK&S several years later, and now mostly abandoned. Another part, from Elmdale to Lowell, is now used ty (he Pert Marquette system. ? Compiled by Kathy Maurer Sources: Hastings Banner, Thc Michigan Pioneer and Historical Society, Chronic Iing.America .com, barryjnigenweb. org, the Library of Congress, and Trains Magazine. "" ‘ ’ ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ROLL PARKWAY DRIVE ROAD IMPROVEMENT SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO; 2020-1 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Township Supervisor and Assessor have prepared and filed in the office of the Township Clerk for public examination assessment r°H covering all properties within the PARKWAY DRIVE ROAD IMPROVEMENT SPECIAL ASSESSEMENT DISTRICT NO. 2020-1 benefitted by the proposed road improvement project, which project will include pav­ ing of the road, along with associated activities such as,but not limited to,grad­ ing and drainage work. The costs of the project are as shown on the estimate o cos s on file with the Township Clerk. The assessment roll has been prepared or the purpose of assessing costs of the project within the aforesaid special assessmen distnet. as is more particularly shown on plans on file with the Town­ ship Clerk at the Township Hall, 7350 Linsey Road,Plainwell,within the Town- *ssessment ro11 is the total amount of S28.562. The costs.including admirustrative costs are proposed to be raised by a new special assessment. Marriage nrivf f^a e y Rnard ™nst each parcel in the special assessment district will be Per f00t of fronta9e and/or driveway access on Parkway l>orraine Lynne Lawrence. Bellevue and Eric Michael Reck. Hickory Comers Anthony James Falvo, Delton and Linda Renee Bauman. Kalamazoo Chad Andrew Kerr. Shelbyville and Kimberly Ann Noorman. Shelby ville Steven Scott Ross, Battle Creek and Harley Kathleen Daniel. Battle Creek Nickolc Lynn Stanton. Hastings and William Joseph Carollo, Hastings Derek Thomas Allan, Middleville and Ashley Ann Kramer, .Middleville Alyssia Ann Marie Piper. Hastings and Ary an James Coulter. Hastings Susan Kay Bridgman, Hastings and Steven Spencer Pierce. Raleigh. NC Matthew David Thelen, Lake Odessa and Hettc Marlene King, Lake Odessa Lindsay Mary Burch. Middleville and Andrew Lawrence Hiebel. Middleville David Lvans Medaris. Middleville and «richiKay Van Elzelingen. Wyoming Etandy Rae Collins. Nashville and Nicholas Murray, Woodland . Anne Price. Hastings and navis ^jamin Weeber. Hastings y . n Andrew Mater. Nashville and Alivia ’'Line Johnctx k. Nashville । K'foi Martin Ellard, Delton and ( rystal- ’rn/se' Mi-Jenkins, Delton 7’ijah ('unis McConnon. Hastings and 1ficlht R<ht» Goins. Grand Rapids FURTHER NOTICE that the Supervisor and Assessing OfBoard that th* assessment against each aqainst all oarcelq 'S SUCh re,ative portion of the whole sum levied the total benefit to ail ? Sa*d D‘strict as benefit to such parcel bears to the total benefit to all parcels of land in said District. meet aUhe^OranaevnJ that the Orangeville Township Board will ^Tuesday Tep^em^rV^OMPa^y-on 3^0 UndSey R°ad' MiChigan soGcial assessmont mu ’ ? u a 7-°0p.m. for the purpose of reviewing the examined at the office oAhn Tear,n9 anV objections thereto. The roll may be S,™« Z SS" a™!> ”3" “21“ h“! 01 me 0 he hearing and may further examined at the hearing. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that an owner or party in interest or his/ her agent, may appear in person at the ° ♦ h the soeciai / " nr mau filo hiq/hnr ine hearing to protest me special assess­ ment or may tile his/her appearance and protest bv letter before the hearino ’ Article I of the Articles of Incorporation is hereby amended to read as follows: of Authority The name of thc Authority is the Southwest Barry C^Uftli;^., « Sewer Authority. Thc principal office of (he Authority will be located al the Authority office, 11191 M-43. Delton, Ml 49046. or such other office as designated by the Authority’s Commission from lime to time. 2. This Amendment No. 2 to the Articles of Incorporation shall be pub­ lished once in the Hastings Banner, a newspaper of general circulation within lhe limits of the territory encompassed by the Authority. One (I) printed copy of such Amend­ ment No. 2 to the Articles of incorporation, certified as a true copy thereof, with lhe date and place of publication, shall be filed with thc Michigan Secretary of State and thc County Clerk of lhe County of Barry', w ithin thirty (30) days after the execution thereof has been completed. The Secretary' of the Authority Commission shall cause this Amendment No. 2 to the Articles of Incorporation to be published, certified, and filed as aforesaid. 3. This Amendment No. 2 shall become effective upon the last date of filing of certified copies of this Amendment No. 2, as provided in the preceding Para­ graph 2. This Amendment No. 2 to the Articles of Incorporation has been adopted by ? each of the Constituent Municipalities, as hereinafter set forth in the following endorse- ? merits, and in witness whereof the supervisor and clerk of each Constituent Municipal­ ity have endorsed thereon the statement of such adoption. The foregoing Amendment No. 2 to the Articles of Incorporation was adopt­ ed by the Township Board of the Township of Barr), Bany County, Michigan, at a regular meeting duly held on the 12th day of May 2020. TOWNSHIP OF BARRY Is/ Wesley Kahler, Township Supervisor /s/ Debra Knight, Township Clerk The foregoing Amendment No. 2 to the Arne es of Ineorporatton was adopt­ ed by the Township Board of the Township of Hop.-. Bany C ounty. M.ehtaan. at a regular meeting duly held on the 16th day of March .0.0. township of hope /s/ Mark Feldpausch, Township Supervisor /s/ Deborah Jackson, Township Clerk „ ,. 2020-2024 inclusive. Additionally, the Township 0 • are u ds in the special assessment district fund that then amountthere needed. pXl tS t This Amendment No. 2 to the Articles of Incorporation is adopted to change the name of the Southwest Barry County Sewer and Water Authority to lhe “Southwest Barry' County Sewer Authority” “ARTICLE I: Name Henry' and Linda (Bowerman) Dykstra are celebrating 65 years of marriage. They were wed on September 2, 1955. at thc First Baptist Church of Middleville, where they also first met. They were blessed with six children, 16 grandchildren, and 24 great­ grandchildren. i-lhJHO ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION FOR SOUTH WEST BARRY COUNTY SEWER AND WATER AUTHORITY TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF ORANGEVILLE. BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, OWNERS OF LAND WITHIN THE PARKWAY DRIVE ROAD IMPROVEMENT SPECIAL AS­ SESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 2020-1 AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS. Henry and Linda Dykstra celebrate 65 years 1464b3 The X*X’S =««« W ±c .° “ >»ta.!hp.” ..M . .x appeal of the special assessment with the State Tax Tribunal within 30 days after confirmation of the special assessment roll Orangeville Township will provide necessarv reasonable auxiliary ajds s .ssxrasr OranirX8ToClerk 7350LM”g?an«SPMN9«> ________ (2G9> 664-4S22 d 141 “* ““ No. 2of toJohnstown. lhe Articles Barry of Incorporation was adopted . . TThc ,°U n°,,lg/nr the Township Count), Michigan, at a by the Townsh.p Boiud of the^n P fMarch regular meeting duly held on JV J TOWNSHIP OF JOHNSTOWN /s/ Barbara Earl Township Supervisor !si Sheri Babcock. Township Clerk ndincnl No-<|dp 2 toofthe Articles ofBarry incorporation was adopt-at I he foregoing p’ Vpown Prairicville. ('ounty, Michigan, ed by the Township Bo»M‘ (|w ,0lh day of Murvh 2020. a regular meeting duly ntiu TOWNSHIP OF PRAIRIEVILLE /s/ Jim Stoneburner, Township Supervisor /s/ Rod Goebel, Township Clerk �Page 10 — Thursday, August 27.2020 — The Hastings Banner Federal stimulus blunts a blow in Michigan Bridge Magazine Federal stimulus checks and expanded ■Michiganders are spending more freely than uncmplojment benefits hase propped up the elsewhere. We’ve seen a stronger recOvery Michigan economy during the coronavirus in consumer spending here than nationally.’ pandemic, driving up spending and tax reve­ nue and blunting the impact of an ongoing Gabriel Ehrlich, University of Michigan economist recession. Thc message, delivered this past Monday by financial experts in Lansing, is good news for Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and On Monday, they humped those projections money, rather than saving it. leaders in the Republican-led Legislature. back up to $8.2 bi||. J sliU a decrease, but Consumer spending in Michigan is now up What had been projected as a S3 billion over January levels and above lhe national a substantially sma||er one than feared. deficit for lhe fiscal year that begins m Among the winn and losers so far this average, driven largely by increases in online October is now likely less than $1 billion, year: according to Chris Kolb. Michigan's budget sales. Resuunint tax col|eclions aie down 23 per­ “Michiganders arc spending more freely director. r cent for 2020 as consumers avoid public spac­ than elsewhere, ” said Gabriel Ehrlich, a But experts want it may take J ears Michigan co replace ihe more than 1 million University of Michigan economist who fore­ es. Building materials gardening supplies and jobs lost at the height of the pandemic. And casts thc state and national economies. “We’ve seen a stronger recovery in consumer spend­ home improvement projects are going strong. -the path of thc vims remains uncertain, Total vehicle *sa|es are down, but noted David Zin, chief economist lor the ing here than nationally.” Michigan lost nearly 1 in 4 jobs this spring. Michiganders who are buying autos are pur­ non-partisan Senate Fiscal Agency, who cau­ The stale had gained back 909.000 of those chasing more expensive ones, said Jim tioned the pace of recovery will likely slow. jobs by thc end of July but was still down Stansell, senior economist for the non-parti­ -We still need additional federal aid to help us manage through lhe devastating impact about 370,000 jobs compared to February, san House Fiscal Agency. Michigan Lottery sales are up S160 million that COVID-19 has had on revenues, or else according lo preliminary federal data. has had “some of the In April, Michigan led the nation with a 24 this year, as the we will be facing tough decisions about what essential services and programs to cut. Kolb percent unemployment rate as COVID-19 most spectacular months we've ever had from told reporters following a virtual Consensus cases and deaths peaked and Whitmer shut the lottery during the pandemic.” Zin said. That unexpected lottery surge has helped Revenue Estimating Conference in Lansing, down much of the economy. But the rale where officials estimated future lax collec­ declined in June and July, falling below the buoy the stale’s School Aid Fund, the primary' national average to land al 8.7 percent — still source for K-12 classroom spending in tions. The S2 trillion Coronavirus Aid. Relief, and more than double the 3.6 percent rate in Michigan schools. Officials had predicted revenue flowing Economic Security (CARES) Act created a February. . With some parts of the state economy still into that fund would drop by a combined $25 scries of federal assistance programs for busi­ nesses. residents and laid off workers that closed. Michiganders are spending less on billion in 2020 and 2021 but on Monday esti­ added nearly $433 billion to the Michigan things like movie tickets, airline flights and mated the size of that hole will likely end up closer to $1 billion. economy during the second quarter of 2020, non-taxable services. There may be several reasons consumer But that has left residents with more to according to fiscal experts. spending in Michigan is outpacing the coun­ spend on goods that arc taxable, including That included nearly $16 billion in forgiv­ able business loans through the Paycheck automobiles, home improvement supplies, try, Ehrlich said. While Michigan’s unemployment insur­ Protection Program, $8.4 billion in stimulus computers and other products often purchased ance agency was slammed by initial claims, online, officials said. checks and $19 billion in extra unemployment That’s part of the reason state sales tax col­ the slate has done a “better job in getting benefits. All told, those payments equaled about 83 lections have not declined as much as state benefits to people in a timely fashion” than percent of the state’s annual personal income, economists predicted in May. when they low­ some other states, he said. And Michigan also has been one of the or about $4,350 per person. Economists esti­ ered projections from $8.7 billion to $7.5 bil­ biggest beneficiaries of the federal “work mate residents spent up to 75 percent of that lion for the current fiscal year. PubSic Laursd Auctsosn The following County Treasurers will be offering tax-reverted real estate at public Auction on September 22nd, 2020: Barry & Kalamazoo BARRY INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICE OF VACANCY, BOARD OF Notice is hereby given to the electors of the Barry Intermediate School District that a vacancy on the board of education of this district exists due the resignation of Mrs. Sharon Boyle, effective August 10, 2020. •Notice is further given that any elector of the Barry Intermediate School District, comprising the Hastings Area School System and the Delton Kellogg Schools, may apply to the board of education for consideration to fill said vacancy on the board through August 31, 2020. The next regular election of the board will be in June 2021, at which time the seat will be posted for a four-year term (the remainder of Mrs. Boyle's term) beginning July 1. 2021 and lasting until June 30,2025, under regular election procedures. Interested electors are requested to send a letter of application, stating reasons for their interest, qualifications for board service which they believe they hold, relevant public service, and a history of elected office, public appointments, or service on other elected or appointed boards, public or private, to: Dr. Robert Becker. President Barry ISD Board of Education c/o Superintendent Richard P. Franklin 535 W Woodlawn Ave. Hastings, Ml 49058 Or via email at: rfranklin@barryisd.org The board will accept letters of application until 4:30 pm on August 31.2020, via USPS delivery or personal delivery. The board will contact all eligible applicants to schedule interviews with the board during its regular meeting on Tuesday. September 8, which begins at 8:30 am, at the address listed above. The board will then choose a candidate by majority vote, for the term as described above. Anyone with questions may contact the superintendent at trie address above; telephone number (269) 945-9545, ext. 111; or via email at rfranklin@barryisd.org i I fl 0 0 j I I 8 8 | R | | 8 I Due to restrictions surrounding COVID-19, Lhe auction will be held ONLINE ONLY at www.tax-snlo.info from 10 00am to 7.00pm EST Bids can be placed up to 30 clays tn advance and assistance is available for those without computer or Internet access. For more information and a list of lhe proper^ being sold, visit www tax-sal-? info ’ or call 1-8C0-259-747C Sale listings may also be available at your local County Treasurer's Office Public Notice - Sealed Bid Auction for Surplus Vehicles Barry County is accepting sealed bids for the following: 2008 Chevy Tahoe 1GNEC03068R263164 Mileage 142,054 Barry County reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to waive any irregularities in any bid, and to award the bid(s) in a manner that the County deems to be in its best interest, price and other factors considered. All items sold AS-IS and available for visual inspection at the Barry County Sheriff’s Department. AILs^aLeA.bldsjTius^ outside of the sealed envelope as follows: Barry County Administrator c/o 2020 Fall Surplus Auto Auction 220 W State St Hastings, Ml 49058 WitllYPULbid^pIp^sojnclude^ypiJLnarn^ariclJ^-fll^^ phoj]e_.numbcr^number_and_descri^ti^notiteni_YPU ars-klddingjmi BJds_wjlLke_a^C-ORted untiij2iQ0pm_pn . FrMaykSeptcwtecQ4 H6544 City of Hastings City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING NECESSITY OF THE IMPROVEMENTS AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT FOR EXTENSION OF SIDEWALKS. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING COMMERCIAL REHABILITATION EXEMPTION CERTIFICATE APPLICATION FROM HASTINGS CENTER J-LC LOCATED AT 802 W STATE STREET, HASTINGS, M| 49058 AS PROVIDED BY SECTION 4 (2) P-A210 OF PUBLIC ACTS 2005 Notice is hereby given that the Hastings City Council will hold a public hearing on Monday September 14, 2020 at 7:00 pm, location to be determined. Please see City website (hastingsmi.org) for location. The purpose of the Public Hearing is for City Council to hear comments and to consider the necessity of the improvements and the establishment of a special assessment district for extension of sidewalks. The proposed sidewalk project includes areas with­ out current sidewalk: West of Industrial Park Drive along West State St/M-43/37 on both the North (to Aldi) and South (to Dollar Tree) sides of the roadway. The City will provide necessary reasonable aid and services to disabled persons wishing to attend these hearings upon seven days notice to the Clerk of lhe City of Hastings, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. Telephone 269/945-2468 or TDD cal! relay services 800/649-3777. Muiio Jane M. Saurman City Clerk ^i,il?e1Ls hereby 9iven ,ha( tho Hasting Citv Council 2020 a?7anPoUbhC i®3™9 °n Monday September 14, ^U20 at 7.00 pm, location to be rintZ Please The purpose of the Public Hearinn i.. Mr ritv Coun­ cil to hear comments on the Com9 ° ?r, aohabilitaion Exemption Certificate App|jcJ?erc,ia m Hastings ^hter LbC for the property^State Street, Hashngs, Ml 49058 otheXtown as: Parcel # 08-55-001-212-00 And commonly known as: Kmart Store hie City will provide necessnn, aid and services to disabled oersnre^ rensonable a ,hpse <*°r T°D JaneMaty Clerk share’’ program, which allows employers to reduce hours but ensure full payments for workers. It s also possible Michigan residents are just willing to spend more because they are “more optimistic about the future than other slates,” Ehrlich said. Despite thc relatively gixxl news, Michigan officials warned tough times may still lie ahead. Even with unemployment recover}, '’027atc may 51*h be ^°wn Jobs ty die Economists now predict general fund reve- .,,74 nereent to $9.5 billton >n nue will drop by 7.4 pen-Cl*1 j revenue, r,5C11| year 2021. Jrtp ^>ut 15 menuwhiie. expu4 I I2Pmi|)ion rcducpercent to $13.5 billion, a.. l,on’ niHtire has improved, •■While the revenue ptd A. ifs important to remen Ixr tht> v^ one step ahead of us at every ,f nues could easily swing Kolb said another wave would 1>" 'ncXin is -ifntil COVID-19 is defeated, uncenaimy thXrd Xn it comes to revenues and thetr impact on our budget. Cashbox thefts continue A65-ycar-old man reported three people stole around $100 from a cashbox on his prop­ erty in the 7000 block of Cherry Valley Road in Thomapple Township at 3:03 pan- Aug. 18.The man said he had been behind his house, and when he looked in lhe front yard, two men and a woman were near thc cashbox of his roadside stand. One of the men had a bundle of cash in his hands. The resident yelled at the man to drop lhe cash, but the trio jumped inside a gold Chrysler mini-van and drove away. The case remains under investi­ gation. A similar scries of cashbo.x thefts look place in Yankee Springs Township Aug. 2. Man arrested while going out for pizza Police arrested a 43-ycar-old Middleville man for operating under the influence at 9:23 pan. Aug. 21. An officer noticed the man’s vehicle traveling at 65 mph in a 55-mph zone on Yankee Springs Road south of Shaw Lake Road in Yankee Springs Township. The vehicle also had a broken taillight and was dragging a piece of its front end on the road. The driver took an exceptionally long time to come to a stop and went into lhe ditch at one point before stopping on the shoulder. The driver initially said he’d had nothing to drink that day. but when the officer asked the lasl time he had a drink, the man replied 6 p.m. He said he had (wo or three glasses of wine, and was on his way to pick up a pizza. He had a 0.167 blood alcohol content. Camper stolen from storage site A 44-year-old I tastings woman reported her new $20,000 Jayco camper was stolen from a storage site in the 900 block of North M-37 Highway in Rutland Charter Township at 6:16 p.m. Aug. 20. The woman said her husband drives past thc storage site nearly every day, and noticed it was missing. He had last seen it Aug. I7.1*he case remains under inves­ tigation. Oakleigh thefts expanded to swing A 70-year-old woman reported her two-person metal swing had been stolen from her front porch in the 2000 block of Oakleigh Drive on Gun Lake Aug. 12. The woman was not at the residence and said her neighbor told her lhe swing was missing. The woman believed it was taken along with several other items stolen on lhe same road Aug. 10. The case is inactive without further information. Woman loses $50 in Craigslist rental scam A 25-year-old Hastings Charter Township woman said she was the victim of a scam involving a house available for rent on Craigslist. A post on the website advertised the house on Leach Lake was available lor rent. The supposed owner asked for a $50 applica­ tion fee. which the woman paid. The owner then asked for a $750 deposit, which lhe woman refused since she had yet to actually see the house. She never heard back from the owner and realized it was a scam. Her bo> friend went to lhe house and met with the actu­ al owner. The owner said he was aware of (he scam. He had alerted lhe Barry’ County Sheriff’s Office and contacted Craigslist in attempt to get the post taken off the website. The case is inactive. Shopper leaves Walmart after skip-scanning A man wearing a Detroit Tigers T-shirt is still at large after Walmart employees caught him skip-scanning items at lhe self-checkout Aug. 17. store associate slopped the man after he attempted to leave the store, and removed the items from his cart he did not pay for. Police were called but the man declared, "I know my rights,” and left lhe store before police arrived. The case is inactive. Inoperable missile found in Jordan Lake A42-year-old woman called police to report what appeared to be a missile or rocket she found while magnet fishing about 150 feel from lhe public access boat launch on Jordan Lake al 5:08 p.m. Aug. 15. An officer thought the missile appeared to be from an Ml rocket launcher, sometimes known as a bazooka. The Michigan State Police Bomb Squad was called, and that side of the lake was cleared of boaters and swimmers. Slate troopers identified the item as an inoperable training aid missile. The woman also brought an antique revolver into lhe Barry County Sheriff’s Office Aug. 19. She said she found it in the Thomapple River while magnet fishing off River Road near Nashville Road. The gun was inoperable, and no serial number was found. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Business Services BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buv single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging,. (269)818-77^3. ' For Sale Mt 1,?FT OAK ™ si oonmte Vnl con<lilion. > W).OO or OBO. 269-908- 2<Jw.’t^00O^‘,hone MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CA I1ON and repair, custom trailer-., buckets, bale sprllr> etc. L all 2o9.HU4 PSUo Cxtrage Sale BELLS CONSI RUCTION18 years experience. Orv w.t|| painting, hie, floonng, trjm home improvements/pow ’ washing. 2o9.320-38^0 5u Au|!<us'l'ln^L Heal Estate FOR SAl E B3 OWNER^ store. 3 urdroom and > \/^ bath. 2,(XM)sq. It, 0.-14 .7 ut lhe Village,,I • indeed? Cllll (2b^- FI<i-SAT.. tn 4‘8' 29th' "■"> llXs t1 °”k Ublc cr- Ashlev v- J \iroorn dress- mgs. �K'c,1'?"d man Charged for possesion Tho Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 27, 2020 — Page 11 sexually abusive material w of an investigation by the Michie™ ‘',T’‘*^ncd Aug. 24. stale police said in an Aug. In,crncl Crimes Against Chik^J nrcSK 26 press26 release. 1 he investigation stemmed from a National H»lchkiss. 35. was arrested and enter for Missing and Exploited Children lip that contained images of child sexually abu- Ast Doctor • Universe 2 to lhe pr^., sive material. ‘lcC^ . n led Fmher a' lo invcstig‘u,v 4 „ sll; idcnce in R,c",la" id an interview c, 'Scarcl< warrant. py abusive that the child sexu|0 Holchl^ nal they had received w»» charged „ j *• Hotchkiss has bee flbusiV(. h pos$cs. sion of child ^,((jcon,mitncrin,c",al and use of a comp“ Crimes Ui^ * The MSPCotnP^r chil^^ges parents to spe* use o( ’ dfan„. ly members ab011‘ available । n,«net. Many resources "re® NCM(®JcIP keep children safe on m (eS0Urcej Q[) ?”)v*des a comprehensive Its ^sp Website missingkids.orgt michi,.^^ Force also Provides resourcemat.oii ^(cac.com. Anyone with info f rthng possi. ble child sexual cxpl° sj|) . report „ to thc CyberTiphne at m dsorg/Cybeni- pl inc. REQUEST FOR SEALED BIDS Deer Fencing The Hastings City Barry County Airport Is accepting sealed bids for 10,700 feet of 10 foot high woven wire galvanized fencing, and 500 feet of 8 foot high chain link fence. Will include 6-12* and 2-24’ manual gates. For more information, contact the Hastings City Barry County Airport for an appointment starting on September 1st, 2020. Please call 269-838-5874 or 269-804-9588 and talk to Mark. Sealed bids will bo accepted at The Managers office at the Hastings City Barry County Airport, located at 2505 Murphy Dr., Hastings, Ml, until September 22,2020 at 3:00 p.m. The Airport Commission reserves the right to reject any and all blds, to waive any irregu­ larities in any bid, and to award the bid in a manner it believes to be in its own best Interest, price and other factors considered. All bids shall be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package, "Bld: Fencing Airport 2020." The awarded bidder shall be contacted by mail or phone. Mark Noteboom, Airport Manager . Coining art and science Dr. Universe: How are coins made? Dahlia, 10, Olympia, Wash. Dear Dahlia, In lhe United States, pennies. nickels, dimes, quarters and other coins are made through the U.S. Mint. It turns out. the mint has been making a lot more coins than usual during the global pandemic. But more on that in a moment. It takes both science and art to make coins. Coins are made from metals that have been mixed together. We call these kind of metals alloys. 1 he first coins in lhe world were made thousands ol years ago in Turkey from electrum, an alloy of gold and silver. A penny is made from an alloy of copper and zinc. According to lhe U.S. Mint, an artist will design the coin with all its details. Then sculptors create a model of the coin in clay or using a digital model and use it to make a plaster cast. People scan thc plaster cast using a com­ puter, and the computer’s software helps cut the coin design into the end of a metal cylinder. The metal cylinder is used to cre­ ate more stamps, or dies, that will be used to press lhe coin design into metal. Meanwhile, a machine cuts out flat circle shapes from sheets of rnctal. I he circles arc called blanks. The blanks heat up, get a bit soft, cool. go through water, and dry. 7*hey go through a machine that raises lhe edges of the coin before going through another machine that presses a design into lhe coin. Finally, lhe coins are bagged and shipped out to banks. We use them as we buy differ­ ent things or do laundry al lhe laundromat. Each month, the U.S. Mint produces about 1 billion coins, which are made in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Denver. But because people are Hying to prevent lhe spread of the novel coronavirus, they haven’t been exchanging many coins lately. There are fewer coins moving through the economy. That’s what I found out from my friend Elizabeth Reilly Gurocak. an economist at Washington State University. She’d been noticing a lot of signs al restaurants and supermarkets informing customers that the country is having a coin shortage. Your question even inspired her to start collecting coins from around the house and from family members. She takes lhe coins to counting kiosks at stores or to the bank to exchange for paper money. “I’m going to start paying fur things with coins just lo put them back in the economy.” she said. “I’m going to be like the coin fairy’!” To help add more coins to lhe economy, thc U.S. Mint also plans to make about 1.65 billion coins each month for the rest of the year. You can help with the coin shortage, too. “Empty those piggy banks,” Reilly Gurocak said. “Bring coins to the bank to exchange for paper money, buy things with coins, or take them to coin kiosks. We can solve this problem together.” Dr. Universe Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University's resident scientist and writer at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu or visit her website, askdruniverse .com. TOWNSHIP OF JOHNSTOWN COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN MILL LAKE AQUATIC WEED AND PLANT CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 1 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICI '^i(ions GIVEN that the Township Board of the Township of Johnstown, Barry County, Michigan, having receive pc - o make certain public improvements to Mill Lake consisting of the application of herbicide treatmf”ls °. .i iand are 3 l01}or control of aquatic weeds and plants, from record owners of land constituting more than 50% ol the to a m the proposed special assessment district described below, has resolved its intention to proceed on the pct>to‘ ’ !jursuant lo Act 188 of the Public Acis of Michigan of 1954, as amended, to make said Improvements in the ovv p. e Township Board has tentatively determined that thc cost of said Improvements shall be specially assesse ag • tach of the following described lots and parcels of land which arc benefitted by the Improvements and which togetnc comprise thc following proposed special assessment district: MILL LAKE AQUATIC WEED AND PLANT CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 1 The lotsj^ncluded within the proposed special assessment district arc depicted on the map appearing below the lots and Lots and Parcels Numbered: 09-040-019-00 09-040-020-00 09-010-036-00 09-040-038-00 09-040-039-00 09-185-008-00 09-021-003-00 09 040-033-00 09-021-001-00 09-185-001-00 09-040-031-00 09-010-070-00 09-125-007-00 09-125-022-00 09-040-007-00 09-021-028-00 09-040-060-00 09-040-018-00 09-040-040-00 09-040-041-00 09 085-006-00 09-185-007-00 09-021-002-00 09-040 081-00 09-185 003-00 09-185-004-00 09-185-002-10 09-125-021-00 09-040-057-00 09-040-083-00 09-040-046 00 09-040-0-17-00 09-021-005-00 09-040-069-00 09-185-005-00 09-0-10-056-00 09-040-034-00 09-125-003 00 09-125-004-00 09-040-063-00 09-040-054-00 09-040-062-00 09-185 006-00 09-040-009-00 09-040-082-00 09-040-012-00 09-125-020-00 09-040-015 00 09-125-011-00 09-040-074-00 09-040-075-00 09-125-001-00 09-125-002-00 09-040-048-00 09-040-061-00 09-040-011-00 09-040-043-00 09-021-006-00 09-040-076-00 09-040-073-00 09-040 050-00 09-0-10-004-00 09-040-006-00 09-040 051-00 09-040-044-00 09-125-010-00 09-085-003-00 09-040-067-00 09-040-023-00 09-185-001-10 09-185-002-00 09-125-006-00 09-085-001-00 09-021-004-00 09-021-026-00 09-021-027-00 09-085-007-00 09-040-028-00 09-040-055-00 09-040-080-00 09-085-002-00 09-021-029-00 09-040-005-00 09-125-008-00 09-125-023-00 09-125-024-00 09-040-027-00 09-125-018-00 09-125-014-00 09-125-015-00 09-040-029-00 09-040-049-00 09-125-016-00 09-125-016-01 09-040-001-10 09-125-005-00 09-125-025-00 09-125-012-00 09-040-072-00 09-125-017-00 09-125-009-00 09-040-042-00 09-040-071-00 09-085-005-00 09-040-003-00 09-021-007-00 09-040-052-00 09-125-019-00 09-040-058-00 09-040-077-00 09-0-10-078-00 09-040-053-00 09-125-026-00 09-040-059-00 MAP OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT Financial FOCUS Provided by lhe Barry County offices of Edward Jones Brandon Wilkins I—a—it ■ ■ ■ "jj Jeff Domenico, AAMS® 450 Meadow Run Dr. Suite 100 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-8265 Member SIPC 307 E Green St, Ste. 1 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-2003 Get the most from your 401(k) You won’t sec any greeting cards celebrating it. and it’s not likely to be on your calendar, but in just a few weeks, National 401 (k) Day will be observed. And this type of recognition may be warranted, too, because 401 (k) plans have become key' building blocks for a big part of people’s lives -acomfortable retirement. Are you making the most of your 40I(ki? Of course, during lhe past few months, you may have had mixed feelings about your 40i(k). After all. al lhe beginning of the coronavirus, when the financial markets tumbled, the value ot your account probably fell significantly. although it b',s likely regained some ground since the initial drop. Nonetheless, the recent market volatility and its short­ term effects on your 401 (k) ibiuld not unduly influence your decisions about this ;mpunar,t retirement account. Afk’r all. a 401 (k) is truly a lon^crrn vehicle, in ever) -•* you contribute lo :l fccadty while you’re >ork*g- and you can draw with other sources }n«^ne. jor decades during JWirvnumt Consequently. . *ant io consistently Uii • Jr accounl ,G ensUrt hard for you suggestions: Get the match. Al a minimum, put enough into y our 401 (k) to earn your employer’s matching contribution, if one is offered. While employers can set their own rules, a typical march is 50% of what you put in. up to 6% of your salary. So. if you don’t contribute the amount needed to cam the match, you are essentially “leaving money on the table." (Be aware, though, that some employers have temporarily suspended matching contributions in response to the economic slowdown during the pandemic.) Give yourself regular Every time your “raises, salary salary- goes up. increase your annual contributions. Most people typically anywhere near hitting the annual 4()l(k) maximum . comnbution litntt <«<”;»’■ *" 2(P(J i< $19,500, or .>26,000 for those 50 <>r ‘,lder'' a"d vou might not. cither. b,1‘ *3 U, put in as much as you can Not only will you Ik tinglavdefoncdresourccs Agisms contnwuu (ull|cis your 401 (k) is designed to help fund your retirement, which could last 20 years or more, you’ll want io build thc biggest account possible. That means you’ll need to include investments designed to provide growth within your 401(k), subject to your personal risk tolerance. Be careful about loans. You can lake oui loans from your 40l(k), bui it’s not always a good move. You’ll have to pay yourself back, and if you leave your job. either voluntarily or involuntarily, the repayment may be due al an inconvenient lime. (However, as pan of the CARES economic stimulus act, many 40l(k) loan repayments are being suspended for up to one year.) Furthermore, by­ taking out money from your account, even temporarily, yoU can slow its overall growth potential. So, you may want to look for other sources of income before tapping into your401(k). National 40l(k) Day is just that - a day. But by taking the appropriate steps, you can help ensure your own 40|(k) gives you many years’ worth of benefits. t This article was written by Edwatd Jones for uw by your local Edward Jones FutanM ■VW,'rhive a Roll' ‘’OKhh in 5<t ,.h case your contribuhons 2 dedJcnble. but your Advisor. Edward jr ,.. .,n nrow tax-free)^bt'u-sl for groolh Because SIPC Jon^ Member TAKE f die ’fownsh’thC TownshiP Board of lhe Township of Johnstown will hoIcU Tow^hip muetmg hip Board to be held on September 9, 2020, at 7:00 p.m.. } petitions filed, 1,a11- 1364 d improve ,ehWay- BaUlC Creek’ Michi8anhcar and Wnd10<he?nX relatingto'Lnd .mprovethe propose ments, the proposed special assessment district, and a ments. lake FURTHER N0Tjcf Ihai pic|iminaty plans and cstinia(cs O1.cost for the Improvements are on tde w.th the T,’"”5hi!’oTY SHALL I.'n ,prCIA1 ASSESSMENT STRICT AND THF. 1W>^ FST1MAT ^Bi:-ADl’f-:OTO n,E,,RO,,OS,;D"pn BY MORE THAN 10% WITHOUT EURORIGINAL MAfE OF COST SHALL NOT BE INCREASE^ BY m TIIERNOTK-11AND PUBLIC HEARING. This N<>''c‘ " ,S aul'll)rized by the Township Board of ihe Township of Johnst Dated: AUB0’’112> __________ Shcri Babcock. Clerk -r.....nship °f Johnstown �Page 12 — Thursday. August 27, 2020 — The Hastings Banner on new courts he is doing this season.’’ Ran‘J‘d’.^'fhe eight Randall was really P eased’ all new courts at the high sch . hit on "It is such an improvement, the cement wall yet. but man t1 * j(J improvement it is ridiculous. ’ given Schueller said the new courtha her players a bit of a boost o in they’re something for them to take p d "Il is a nice feeling overall, she said The Trojan doubles teams were a leas dominant on the scorecards as the singl player. Hayden Oly and Darnel M>dd toon scored a 6-1.6-1 win at number one doubles forTK over the Saxon duo of d and Cole McKenna. TK s Sam Morton and Josh Wcdykc won 6-1. 6-1 at numl*,I over Hastings’ Brandon Darling and Heatn Saxon fourth singles player Joe Goggins hits as backhand during his season-opening match against Thornapple Kellogg on the new courts at Hastings High School Friday morning. (Photo by Brett Bremer) There were three seniors in the Irojan line­ up Friday. Middleton. Wedyke and Gavin Denman. Denman teamed with junior Robbi Holler for a 6-1,6-0 win at third doubles over the Hastings team of Ung Haines .and Mitche Vann. The TK team of Ronnie Simmons and Ben Cuison won 6-0,6-0 at number four over Saxons Keegan Lindsay and Waytt Holman. Randall was the lone Saxon senior in the line-up Friday. Thc Saxon doubles line-up has been boosted in part this fall by the addition of freshmen Haines, Hays and Lindsay. Hastings junior Joey McLean puts a snoi oacK ai । nuniappw ™iuyy o 'during their first singles match on the new courts at Hastings High School Friday I morning. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ». * Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans took to the eight brand new 7ennis courts on the north end of Baum ‘Stadium in Hastings Friday morning for their First varsity tennis dual of lhe season, and took a victory on each of them. The Thomapple Kellogg boys scored an '84) win over the Saxons in one of lhe first high school sporting events since the global Coronavirus pandemic shut sports down in Michigan last March in lhe middle of thc high school basketball slate tournaments. ‘ TK’s junior foursome of Jack Geukes, Payton Wilkinson, Jaymes Thome and Nick Vreeland filled the four singles flights. Wilkinson and Thome spent lhe early part of the 2019 as the Trojans’ number one doubles team before joining the singles line-up. Guekes filled the first singles spot for the Trojans Friday, scoring a 6-3, 6-1 win over Hastings junior Joey McLean. Filling the sec­ ond singles spot, Wilkinson earned a 6-2,6-1 ,win over Hastings senior Sam Randall. ,. Thome bested junior John Tellkamp 6-0, .6-1.at third singles, and Vreeland earned a 6-0,6-0 win over Joe Goggins at number four. “It is a good start." TK head coach Philippe ' Sylvestre said. “Last season we needed some adjustments. This year, there is growth and maturity for sure, good growth and maturity. It is really sweet. I am really excited about that. They’re really receptive this year. It is the same crew of guys, but during that whole lime period they grow up. There have been a lot of changes. I’m excited. While the scores were a bit lopsided in the end, there were a lot of long points played out throughout the morning. Hastings head coach Krista Schueller was pleased to see her guys keeping thc Trojans out on lhe court. TK scored an 8-0 win over the Saxons in Middleville last September, a dual that lasted about 32 minutes. •‘We had some people that were out there for 75 (minutes) today, so that shows us right there that our points are longer, our games are longer, we’re hanging strong,” Schueller said. “We have brand new people in our doubles spots and they all hung in there. That tells us that we have a bright future ahead of us this year.” Sylvestre said part of the long points was by design as lhe Trojans ramp up for lhe sea­ son, but it was also about improved play from the Saxon program. North Broadway reopens after culvert repairs Barry County Road Commission crews repaired a 16-1/2-foot-wide culvert and added an overflow pipe to reduce the risk of flooding during heavy rain events. Greg Chandler Staff Writer More than three months after it had been shut down, North Broadway has reopened over the Little Thomapple River in Carlton Township after lhe Barry County Road ‘Commission completed repairs to lhe culvert. The culvert work was completed Friday, and the road surface was chip-sealed Tuesday. Road Commission Operations Director Jake Welch said. . “I’m very happy with thc end product. It’s jjoing to be a good long-term repair,” Welch jsaid. North Broadway had been close between Freeport and Vedder roads, just south of the Barry/Jonia county bonier, since thc middle of May after heavy rains washed away rocks and accumulated gravel from thc bottom of the culvert. The project involved building a bypass to ‘divert the river from the existing 16-l/2-l«x)twide culvert, (hen injecting foam into the pipe to fill in lhe cracks, and lining it with concrete Then an overflow pipe was added to accommodate high-flow water events such as heavy rams, reducing lhe risk of water goinn over the road. b “Our guys have done an awesome job of staying on task.” Welch said. “We got everything done that we wanted to. That’s a huge testament to our guys.” 'Michigan Department of Environment. Great laikes and Energy staff had to approve a road commission permit request to allow the repair work to proceed, Welch said. 'Ihe final cost of ihe project'won’t be determined lor another month or so but is expected to lx* al or perhaps a little mole than thc budgeted amount of $200,(XX). Because the culvert was not long enough, it was not eligible for stale critical bridge funding, .so the project came fully out of thc road commission’s own funds, Welch said. Welch said he expects that the improved Structure will last 30-50 years. 1 °'ul Hastings senior Sam Randall hits a serve during his second singles match Friday morning jn the Saxons’ dual with visiting Thornapple Kellogg. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ‘ We like to play |ong points to get belter, to improve, Sylvestre said. “That is like the basic foundation of everything. Ball on the court, then wc leant lo swing and move the ball around the box if we can. That is really foundationally where we start most of thc time." Randall, the Saxons’ second singles player was happy io gel back a little bit of normalcy after missing out on the spring track and field season. He was impressed with the way Wilkinson kept putting lhe ball back at him. “He is a brick wall. lie pul everything back to me. It was more than slightly annoying, but he is very' good. I look forward to seeing what later Central Elementary, OT^ine students Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Some Hastings Area School System students had their summer break extended: Central Elementary students will not return to school until Monday. Aug. 31. And, districtwide, students who attend classes online will not begin school until Tuesday, Sept. 8. Aug. 24 was the first day of school for all other students in the district. “We are sorry." Superintendent Dan Remenap told parents in a Facebook post last Thursday. “We do appreciate the grace, flexibility, kindness, and patience we are all going to have to offer one another as we navigate these challenging times.” The Central Elemental building had major construction this summer, Remenap wrote. New flooring and air conditioning units were installed and new furniture was purchased. However, because of lh.e COV1D-19 pandemic, construction supplies were scarce and deliveries were delayed. “Our hope was that we would be able to celebrate the newness at Central Elementary’ with an exciting and fun-filled day, however, time constraints have made that impossible,” Remenap wrote With lhe construction incomplete, many teachers and staff members could not get into lheir classrooms last week to set up for lhe school year f the challenges this causes some families. and { ^cr our most sincere "ElemeS students will get in,° "*r "las room Lab°r Da* rudc"h «P< g tovirtual learning won’t “mil after the holiday "T ‘ d,Stricl’s online provide Edgenu.ty, is “’‘Periencing incre1sed usage volumes as MUdenls " ^oing vinual lhroughout ’F-e^idonlinelnrerest.tbe '”*"8 tom ’thsS"VffidaTwere Vinual Acad ‘"I ^or she will hear from a Hasting, <Jtmy’ „)f teacher in the coming Wet|» whk T 'T about how. when, and WllCrc 10 PickdC1“' •vices." Remenap wrote. "'Ve . P d i u>l year was going to be 0"c lull obstacles," he wrote -jha e . expected these ('hallcnge!>d?l' "‘"Liior l» sclHK’1 Martin8- by Brett Bremer One psfflw test stops two Indiana football teams There are thousands and thousands of high school student athletes who would give just about anything to play one football game this Friday night or next Friday. I gel il. There arc hundreds of high school student athletes in Indiana and Ohio who are sched­ uled to lx? playing football games this Friday night and next. There is an online petition at change.org with over 15,000 signatures hop­ ing to change thc minds of those with the power in the state government and the Michigan High School Athletic Association to allow high school football this fall in Michigan. There is a #LetThemPIay rally in lhe works for Friday afternoon at thc Capitol in Lansing. There is another option though. It is not just football or no football. There are the next two Friday nights for the members of lhe DeKalb High School and Angola High School varsity football teams who opened their varsity football season in Indiana last Friday with Angola rolling to a 55-18 win. There is quarantine. The game report in the Herald Republican, lhe newspaper that covers Steuben County which is lhe home of Angola High School, reported that DeKalb fumbled the ball four times on its first 13 offensive plays with the Angola Hornets turning those turnovers into 21 points and a 28-6 lead by late in the first half. The story ends with “the Hornets will host Leo next Friday while DeKalb will have its home opener against Garrett.” Not anymore. “We were notified last night that a football player from DeKalb High School tested pos­ itive for COVID- 19,” Metropolitan School District of Steuben County Superintendent Brent Wilson wrote in a letter to families in Angola Wednesday. “Through contact trac­ ing, it has been determined that most of our football players were in direct contact with lhe affected player at lhe game.” “Out of an abundance of caution, our var­ sity football team consisting of 47 athletes who played in the game last Friday will be quarantined at home for 14 days. Parents of these students have been asked to closely monitor lheir children for symptoms. The students will be receiving virtual instruction so they can keep up on their studies.” That means 47 football players (from Angola) arc quarantined.. Those football players spent the weekend and then two days going to high school classes not knowing they had been in close contact with someone who tested positive. The DeKalb player who tested positive for COVID-19 also practiced with teammates Saturday. DeKalb announced late Wednesday afternoon that all varsity players who traveled lo the Friday game will be quarantined too. “The cooperation that we have received from our students and parents has been out­ standing,” Wilson added in his letter. “My goal is to keep our schools open for in-per­ son instruction as long as il continues to be safe to do so. Our quarantine procedures have proven to be effective in quickly isolal- ing potential cases and protecting our com­ munity. Please be prepared to make lhe •transition to virtual learning for your chil­ dren if our quarantine numbers continue to; increase. We may have to implement elxam-, ing for a period of time al an individual school building or the entire school district if confirmed cases continue to rise.” Pushing the physical health concerns to lhe background for a moment, is high school football worth the very real possibility of an entire school district (or even just a building) moving lo on-line learning for a few weeks? I guess it is to many. But it only takes one. One positive COVID-19 case from among these iwo teams shuts them both down for two weeks. Their opponents are left looking for games (unless they just decide to play each other). It only takes one to lake close to 100 youth out of their school buildings for tw o weeks. I understand that everyone can plan on taking every possible precaution. Speaking with Mike Goggins at tennis last week me that the football program, with its stable of coaches, was able to manage all of the COVID protocols as well or better than any of lhe other sports programs. But il only takes one. It only lakes one in the same way that it only takes one missed step by the guard lo leave the fullback on his butt with the football in the backfield. It only lakes one in the same way that one missed tackle turns that three-yard slam into a 73-yard touch­ down. But a missed assignment on the foolball field doesn t lead to a school building doing all of its assignments online — or worse. I am thankful these aren’t my decisions to make. I also don’t want to write a column about COVID-19 issues every week. Ulis makes two tn a row. So. why did I feel the need to share this one after fellow reporter Greg Chandler notified me of the situation? Because tins is not happening far away. This is not tn a different world. This is not the part of Indiana that ls practically Kentucky. This busy X011' °r C'CVeland °r some 0,h« big H H rn 'Vi8h SCh001 is ,,bouI ,he size of Ketlo F,ewcrus,uden’s than Thomapple Kellogg. More than Hastings Michigan teams don’t cross state lines a on, but it is about 26 miles south on 69 to gel 1XK "ibt* >Lron.’ Co!dwu(er H'8h School. DeKalb is about another 15 mile* niad. Hastings ami Coldwatermem” bers ofthe InIcrMatt>8 Alhk.ti^m.n- c^rXXi:sx^loscr(" i< can be- a chance to vent Io cri ,OS' f< around others who can ’ sym^.v JUS* understand. Let whoever is^IiJthlZc and how much you want to play towSLk"ow but be safe so that if yon Can’i ° the spring remains a'pvxsibilit/'"'"1'* ,htt[n �lhe Hastings Banner — Thursday, August 27. 2020 — Page 13 Panthers get on course at Gilmore Delton Kellogg junior Austin Blocker winds his way through the heart of the Gilmore Car Museum during the Panthers’ season-opening cross country dual with Gull Lake Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) M ■ .r* ■ Delton Kellogg senior Micah Ordway looks to get out in front of the pack at the start of the Panthers’ dual with Gull Lake at Gilmore Car Museum Tuesday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) . ■ is Delton Kellogg freshman Brea Chandler runs by the Cadillac-LaSalle Club Museum building on the grounds of the Gilmore Car Museum Tuesday during the Panthers’ dual with the Gull Lake varsity cross country team. (Photo by Brett Bremer) DKHS junior Aubrey Aukerman manages a smile as she works her way towards the finish line near the end of Tuesday’s season-opening dual against host Gull Lake at Gilmore Car Museum. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer “We’re pretty tight runners. We like to push each other and and try to beat our next time every meet.’’ Aukerman said. Aukerman said she could tell that it was the first meet of the year. She knew she had some catching up to do, but was still a little sur­ prised to start feeling a bit wom down just over a mile into the race. ‘T’ve just got to run on my own time, for sure, and just make every’ practice and have fun with my team," Aukerman said. The Gull Lake girls scored a 21-40 win over the DK girls, , ■ DK sophomore Jodie White was tenth in the varsity standings with as time of 27:34.4, freshman Brea Chandler was 11th in 28:01.87 and sophomore Kasey Kapteyn 15th in 28:473. Coach Grimes is still looking forward to recruiting some more runners once school gets started after Labor Day. The Panther boys’ team did add a pair of football players after the gridiron season was postponed to the fall. The DK coach was happy to see Ordway able to pull away from Knapp as (heir race wore on. Knapp just missed qualifying for thc state finals in Division 2 last fall. “Micah is feeling very confident after that 1 know," coach Grimes said. “You never know. It’s the first race of the season and have we Sports Editor Gull Lake seniors Koby Fraaza and Hannah Funkhouser took off and everyone else had somebody to chase at thc first high school cross country race at Gilmore Car Museum of the fall 2020 season. Fraaza was fifth in the boys’ race at the Division 2 MHSAA Lower Peninsula Cross Country Finals last fall after qualifying of the state finals in Division 1 at the end of his freshmen and sophomore campaigns. Hastings senior Rylee Honsowitz finished Funkhouser has been one of the fastest girls in the Kalamazoo area running for the Kalamazoo in a three-way tic for first as the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference gathered at Arbor Hills Home School program the past couple years. Fraaza won Tuesday’s boys’ race in 16 Golf Course in Jackson Tuesday for the first minutes 26.7 seconds. Funkhouser won the varsity girls’ golf jamboree of the season. Honsowitz shot a 39, helping lead thc girls’race in 21:215. Delton Kellogg senior Micah Ordway, a Hastings team to a fifth-place finish. Harper Creek won the day’s event with a state medalist himself in Division 3 a year ago, was lhe runner-up in thc boys’ race score of 187, ahead of Coldwater 189, Jackson Tuesday in 18:295. He was staying as close Lumen Christi 195, Parma Western 197 and to Fraaza as he could while also fighting off Hastings 209. Marshall and Jackson Northwest Gull Lake junior Read Knapp who placed did not record team scores with three golfers each participating. third in 18:41.9. Reese Warner scored a 50 for the Saxons, Gull Lake junior Rachel Grimes, daughter and Hastings also got 60s from Josey Nickels of DK varsity cross country coach Dale Grimes, was the runner-up in her race with a and Ashland Hoyt. been doing enough this summer so far or not? Good stuff there on the boys’end.’’ The Gull Lake boys scored a 21-38 win over the DK boys. Sophomore Hector Jimenez was fifth in the varsity boys’ standings with a time of 19:36.0. DK also had junior Austin Blocker eighth in 20:44.6, sophomore Micah Martin 11th in 21:50.4, and freshman Parker Bagley 12th in 24:162. Out of that pack. Grimes was especially pleased to see Blocker put in a good perfor­ mance after some time away from practice, j Gull Lake hosted its senior night before thp races. Delton Kellogg’s next scheduled race is at Lake wood Sept. 2. The Panthers are slated to host a mini quad back at Gilmore Car Museum Sept. 10. ’ Volleyball, soecea* and swim remain in limbo : The MHSA/X announced last Thursday afternoon (Aug. 27) that competition in vol­ leyball, boys’ soccer and girls’ swimming and diving remain on hold in this area of the state. Those teams may continue outdoor prac­ tice. Volleyball <soccer,an4 swimming teams in regions 6 and 8 (northern lower Michigan and the Upper Peninsula) may begin competi­ tion Aug. 21. "Basically we arc still holding out hope on playing this fall,’’ Lakewood High School athletic director Mike Quinn said in an update that followed the MHSAA announcement. “We will continue to operate on the same basis as we have since practice began in Mid­ August." Thc MHSAA Representative Council was prepared Thursday to approve competition in volleyball, soccer and swimming & diving for all schools in all regions, the MHSAA released in a statement, but was unable to do so because of questions remaining on which activities are still not allowed. “Our Council has made clear it is ready to offer students these opportunities, pending approval from Governor Whitmer that we may do so," MHSAA Executive Director Mark Uyl said. "We have been told that with­ in a week, future guidance will address athlet­ ic issues that exist in current executive orders. Wc are awaiting that guidance. "The MHSAA and Representative Council are committed to following all current and future Executive Orders and safety precau­ tions. However, we need more answers before we can give all of our member schools the go-ahead to play each other again, and the majority of our schools are in regions that are not yet allowed to take pan in volleyball, soc­ cer and swim." To provide additional offseason activity for sports that have had their full seasons can­ celed or moved, the Council approved 16 contact days for football and all spring sports to be used for voluntary practices among stu­ dents from the same school only by Oct. 31. Football and all spring sports then may con­ duct skill work with coaches and up to four players at a time beginning Nov. 1 until the first day of official practice this upcoming spring. Coaches also may work with' an unlimited number of players on general cortditioning during'that lime. ‘ , f For attendance purposes, schools in Regions 6 and 8 may have for indoor volley­ ball a lotal of 250 people or 25 percent of a facility's capacity, whichever is smallest Indoor pools in Regions 6 and 8 are limited to 25 percent of established bather capacity for that pool. Outdoor competition in Regions 6 and 8 may have 500 people or 25 percent of capacity, whichever is smallest. For all three sports, the total numbers of people allowed to be present include all participants, official? and school and game personnel, media anc) fans. . A calendar for the inclusion of football into Spring 2021 will be released later this fall! upon Council approval at a later meeting, t Honsowitz shoots best score Pennfield edges Vikings by j at first Interstate-8 jamboree a flight at first tennis dual \ time of 24:16.3. Delton Kellogg’s girls’ team bad the three and four runners in the race, junior Halena Phillips who was third in 24:23.1 and junior Aubrey Aukerman who was fourth in 24:49.1. "I was really impressed with our top two Picking up where they left off last year, coach Grimes said. “My daughter (Rachel) Halena Phillips were great friends in elet^cntary school and everything* so it has been the little egging on between the two of (htm. They have always been really close to other, competitively wise. Halena put on afeck of an effort the last whole mile to gam °n Rachel. She did gain on Rachel a bit, and I Rachel was bulling her bull to keep H*lena behind her. So, that was a good little ^Petition there. Ho|K-fully. they'll each other again somewhere. , Aubrey has not been to a lot of plJf ,,u ’ ?? summer, and she was right there iig Halena. That is a ni« I 2 punch ngh ** lbat * * we * * *are * looking forward to „ want to sec those two make it to s •< -• and Aukerman traded • Panthers' pt^k il1 d,c f*'. n '' h.m ru^1^1 l"aid shc did v nl Ms summer, but is kx>kmg 01 •’ t0 chase down her du - nbl,/ Lauren Reed from Harper Creek and Anissa Stevens from Coldwater matched Honsowitz’s 39. The Beavers also got a 42 from Jordanne Norris, a 51 from Marlene Bussler and a 55 from Emilee Ryan. Behind Stevens for Coldwater. Taylor Musselman scored a 41, Alexis Musselman a 50 and Katie Kimble a 59. Hastings also had a few golfers at the Thomapple Kellogg Invitational at Yankee Springs Golf Course last Friday. Honsowitz tied for seventh individually with an 86, and coach Kristen Laubaugh said Warner and Nickels also put together good rounds at the tournament. Byron Center girls on top at TK golf invitational Brett Bremer Sports Editor Thc championship plaque and medals are going out in the mail, with the biggest pa :k age headed for Byron Center High School ' The Bulldogs scored a 345 to best run nrr-up South Christian by one stroke at the Tliornapple Kellogg Invitational Friday Yankee Springs Golf Course. Byron Center’s Macic Elzinga and Caledonia’s Natalie Ferricll tied for second each scoring a 75 on lhe white and gold nines nt Yankee Springs. with Fcrriell tying a school record lor JH holes. Pcrriell was two under wjlh a 34 on lhe while nine. NorlhPointc Christian’s Sabrina I-angcrak was the individual champion with a 73. South (’hristj/m scored a 351 to earn the unmet up .’-pof, ahead of Caledonia 361, Zeeland West 386, lliornapple Kellogg 397, Lowell 400, West Ottawa 401, Way]^ Hamilton 414. Zeeland East 415, NorthPointe Christian 426, West Catholic 456 and Hastings NT'S. South Christian als0 K1 a ‘B’ squad shoota366. . Lane Kaminski led lhe host Trojan team with a score of 87 and teammate Maleah Bailey added a 95. Th* ™ a,so 8°< a 100 from Madeline Coe and a 115 fmln A(Jdi Satterfield to round out ib t0P,OUr Rylee Honsowitz led H^l,nSs *w*‘th* an 86. Reese Warner chipped in a 111 Ior the Saxons and Josey Nickels allb. o Behind Elzinga for the champion Bulldogs, Sydney THma shot on 85. Annie Westers an 89 and Jayda Kerns a 96. v High school 18-hole matches likc (his .n ,hc state of Michigan are currently limited (() 72 Participants. Teams *ere *‘in,tcd to five Participants Friday ratherlhan ,he six. Brett Bremer Sports Editor State qualifier Brady Gawne opened his senior season with a 6-1, 6-1 victory over Pennfield’s Cam Reichel for the Lakewood varsity boys’ tennis team Monday. The Panthers edged the visiting Vikings 4-3 in Battle Creek though, in a dual in which the two teams both had voids at the fourth dou­ bles flight. Gawne’s last match for the Viking varsity was at the 2019 MHSAA Lowe Peninsula Boys’ Tennis Finals last October. The line-up is very new behind him for Lakewood this fall after nine seniors graduat­ ed last spring. Lakewood took two singles wins Monday, with freshman Emil Meyers scoring a 6-3,6-3 win over the Panthers’ Reece Chapman at th<j fourth singles spot. The Vikings’ third teanj point came from the first doubles team of /Xsher Teigeler and Logan Tefft that scored a 6-4, 6-3 win over Graham Boyd and Danny' Wells. Pennfield got a 6-0, 6-0 win from Gavin Liggett over Lakewood junior Clay Dumonrf at second singles, and Liggett’s teammaN Shane Carpenter scored a 3-6. 6-4, (11) witf over Viking junior Colin Heyl at numbef three. The green and gold Panthers also scored a 6-0, 6-0 win at second doubles thanks to the team of Quinn Lewis and Luca Gregor and M 6-0,6-4 win at third doubles from the team of Jayden Wirtz and Caiden Bradley. Seniors lead Lakewood cross country teams at Cougar 2-mile. The Lakewood varsity cross country teams opened their season Tuesday getting a pair of top ten individual finishes ut lhe Cougar 2-mile hosted by Lansing Catholic al ihe St. Francis Retreat Center in DeWitt. Returning state qualifier Nathan Alford led the way for lhe Lakewood boys in the 2 Miles Varsity Under 13:00 division, placing third in 10 minutes 9.8 seconds. Only Davison run­ ners were in front of him, with junior Kenny Minto first in 9:51.1 and junior Brady McArdle second in 10:00.2. Senior Katie Acker led the Lakewood ladies in lhe 2 Miles Varsity Under ' placing eighth in 12:4.9. Lansing Catho ic sophomore Hannah Pricco watf the champion in that girls’ race with a lime of 11 ■5° °Two other Vikings joined Alfonl m the boys’ race TXiesday, with junior Zac n >on 33rd in 11:41.0 and sophomore Kyan Alton! 45th in 12:26.6. . The Lakewood girls were fifth as a team in their varsity under 15:30 race that was won by the Lansing Catholic team that finished with 41 points. Davision was second with 50, ahead of Pewamo-Westphalia 68. Haslett *, Lakewood 129 and Portland 163. The top three runners for the Lakewood girls’ team were seniors, Anja Kelley placed 38th in 14:28. and Emily Apsey 44 th in 15:06.1. The Viking team hud three under­ classmen running as well. Sophomore Emma Lancaster was 51st in 16’00.4, sophomorfc Gabby Roscnburger 52nd in 1:115 and fresh­ man Claire Fortier 54th in 18:25.2. Lansing Catholic edged Davison 39-45 in thc boys’ varsity under 13:00 race. Eaton Rapids was third with 3 points, ahead of Pewamo-Westphalia 82 and Bath 11. �days with landscaping 14—Thursday, August 27, 2020 — The Hewn Hastings b; ’ Thylor Owens ; Staff Writer » About 70 student and parent volunteers helped renovate landscaping around the Hastings Community Education and Recreation Omer and high school last week­ end. The Hastings Area Schools Band held seven service days throughout the summer. Band Director Spencer White said. For the ftr?f five days, band students volunteered for Fresh Fbod Fridays, a partnership of the YMCA of Barry County and Blue Zones Activate Barry County. “Band volunteers helped distribute approx­ imately 7OXXX) pounds of food each week with fresh produce boxes and fresh dairy boxes." White said. S'V ' Band students replace the mulch around the CERC. (Photo by Taylor Owens) Students planted 70 plants in front of the CERC over the weekend. (Photo provided) Adult volunteers replace overgrowth around the CERC. (Photo provided) The News Is Just the Beginning Subscribe Today! Don't miss a single copy Your Community... Your Family.. .Your Interests Your Home.. .Your World.. The final two service days look place last Friday and Saturday, when students refreshed lhe landscaping of jhe CERC. Volunteers removed around 100 yards of debris, planted 70 new plants, spread 40 yards of mulch and 40 yards of stone and spent around 15 hours pressure washing. “We are trying to instill in our students the value of giving back lo the community and school.” White said. “/\nd teaching them that it’s important to serve others and help when you can.” Senior Grace Green said she was glad the band was able to show that community ser­ vice could still be done - even in a lime of i----------------------------------—--------- ------Hastings Senior Grace Green rakes mulch around Hastings High School and Community Education and Recreation Center Friday. (Photo by Taylor Owens) social distancing. White added this year’s projects were head­ ed by Chris Stafford and Matt Haywood. Financial donations were given from the Storrs family. Hay w ood family. StalTord fam­ ily. Nick Larabce. the Hammerhead Swim Club and the Hastings/Delton/TK Swim Team. “We even had some individuals give dona­ tions in person when they saw what was being done,” he said. Materials were donated b) the Storrs ly. Leaping Lizards Landscaping, and the of Hastings. Call 800.870.7085 >r pick it up at one of our locations listed below! collective bargaining agreement Saiarv increases to be discussed in Novembe ------ * —- Luke Froncheck Staff Writer The Barry Intermediate School District Board of Education approved a one-jxar extension to the collective-hargaining agrv ment for the upcoming school year. The approval occurred dunng a v.rtual meeting Tuesday mommg- The Hastings Th. Associate represent• • •>“ ... om stonal staff in the djstnet. > teacher’s union.” franklm «u / ”but only four teachers arc m\,"be” d“1 are staff. Iikc speech therapists and social Gu/ilnke One Stop S’»op |Phi;.>ps 66) -v o n, Superette Fa-nfy Sam's Gourniti Food; V.'ooa4nd Dpies Zinzlafe Nashville TradHQ Pcs’ Prairieville Pra’wn.e Fas’. Stop The Genera' S‘;xe Marathon HfaodlMd Dos:r Country S’cre Tom’s Market Hastogs Johnny's bale's County Store Kashvfle Johnny s MV Pharmacy QjQYft^ MegaBtv CkNtvtfate Geoe’a' Penn-Na* Gh Shop Brown's Cedaf Creek Grocey N.hhv.’ q C Store UteDdessfl Pr/ -pi tfc Gas Stf-on (W. S’j’vSl Farntfy Fa’u Gas S’./ ct; lak.-OMyt Waig'fjens laPe Oo^'M Jor-.r*. Mon Fwnt'y Fare Sp^ay Dt xjn Jah0',/ FWfl UJb MxMiev*!^ Markdtp’*ac$ Gre'pC’tlt N-Go rin,en(knl • pleased -» •u— • ratified this morning makes mostly languag For my- part, I am very' that lhe board and union were able to start the school changes that are important lo the memb year with a contract in place,” Franklin said. and thc board, but not terribly excit “It shows that when we work together, we can most folks, I’m afraid,” Franklin said. However, district officials were a stay focused on our students and their needs.” offer an increase in life and accidenta Very few changes were made to lhe agree­ ment. The most significant differences, and dismemberment insurance coverag “We were able lo offer a little bit of Franklin said, are several areas where the there, ” Franklin said. language of lhe document was cleaned up. “The tentative agreement that the board Freeport Gw'e’b! $•, r d Genial Store Johnny S PwW God worthy* workers. ...reement includes no 1 ’c tension of the a teachers and stmSte,r ^'Tto go back to the negosion, Franklin said. member who has a Any bargaining advancement in Iane change,’ meaning gan advanced W columns based cUls bey ond dqjree or a certain nun . asc;« Franklin a d^gr^\ will rccei^ 1 h ^er agreement is sa,J: ‘Until or uni*55 * |I0Wever, we will *acM under the re-°P*• ’ jK) .sleps’ based lavc a wage freeze, ,nL‘ j 0 percentage nn of experie^’ anU ’ 1 b mcrease;. Ihe Point of waiting lh^e’s budget November is so passed, and 1 ^er idea of the officials wdl haVp%‘ n(r. u,>dmg t|u.y will be { °urrenl cnvtrun11 lets us gel beyond the c rncal where we kno''’ ,u iVli;g an agreement r4nklin noted th3 * op sChool makes P^ved before the start ol better. Airport commission approves fencing to keep deer off runwa Greg Chandler Staff Writer Officials at thc Hastings City/Barry County Airport won’t wait for lhe slate to sign off on paying for fencing to keep deer from wander­ ing onto the airport’s runways. The airport commission Wednesday voted unanimously to authorize airport manager Mark Noteboom to seek bids for fencing, pri­ marily along the tree line on the south end of the airport property, and bring in the engineer­ ing firm Mead & Hunt to map the property to determine where fencing should be installed. The project, which would cost no more than $100,000, must now be approved by both lhe Hastings City Council and Barry County Board of Commissioners. Noteboom had brought up lhe possibility of state funding for die project, but lhe work would not have been done until next year and would have been on a reimbursement basis with the airport fronting lhe money first. The fencing would have to meet Department of Natural Resources standards to qualify for reimbursement. Under that other option. Noleboom airport would have had to use Mead for engineering work for the project of $48,000. not counting the cost of itself. The final price tag of pursu option would be dose to $150 .(XX). h “I can’t guarantee lhe state is going back and pay for that,” Noteboom sa The airport has adequate funds av take on lhe project without state ba said, and commissioners were agr the idea. “I’d like lo sec us move ahead w Hastings Mayor Dave Tossava said. County Commissioner Jon Smelk “if we don’t do it [now|. and w lhe stale and we have an accident w [we’re going to have a problem).” said. Assistant Airport Manager Mark reported last month that the deer p was up significantly from past y dozens of deer reported last wint there haven’t been any incidents striking a deer on the runway, Nole � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-09-10.pdf d8d855fa45309c5241c02ebf3005d949 PDF Text Text HaoS^PUb"C Libr^ E State Street Hristingo Ml tfloaa 227 Two COVID cases reported at TK Indecisive county board wants jail vote Leagues get on the lanes again See Story on Page 3 See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 10 ........ ......... II .... hi.............................. ■■ 804879110187 1070490102590503449549058195427 Thursday, September 10, 2020 VOLUME 167, No. 36 PRICE $1.00 16 COVID-19 cases at Thornapple Manor Middleville calls special meeting on dam repairs The Middleville Village Council has called a special meeting for 9 a.m. Friday to consider a request to close the bridge on East Main Street next week to allow Commonwealth Power Co. to repair the Thomapple River dam. The meeting will be at the village hall, 100 E. Main St. The request is calling for the bridge to be closed Monday through Friday next week, Village Manager Patricia Rayl wrote in an email Wednesday. The council had last month approved a request by Commonwealth Power, which owns and operates the dam, to close the bridge Sept. 2-5. However, the closure was put on hold because the company had not submitted proper paperwork nor met a requirement from the village to provide a $50,000 restoration bond in case of dam­ age to the bridge during repairs. Company officials said they want to get the dam repaired while water levels are low. The project had received approval Aug. 12 from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, which oversees the safety of the dam. City council to hold public hearings The Hastings City Council will hold two public hearings — one for the estab­ lishment of a commercial rehabilitation district exemption at the old Kmart build­ ing and the other for sidewalk extension along State Street — at its meeting Monday, Sept. 14, city manager Jerry Czarnecki said. The meeting will take place virtually and can be accessed via a link on the city’s website. Sidewalk sales planned Sept. 18-19 The Hastings Sidewalk Sales, post­ poned from July, will be 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19. Merchants will have local bargains, and shoppers will have plenty of options for dining and refreshments. Because of COVID-19 conditions, cus­ tomers are reminded to maintain social distance while shopping. Businesses and nonprofits from outside of town are invited set up booths for $40 each. Lyn Denton at ldenton@fbinsmi. com may be contacted for additional information. The fall Girls Night Out is planned Oct. 1. M-66 closed for culvert project in Assyria Township The Michigan Department of Transportation has closed off M-66 in Assyria Township for the next three weeks. MDOT’s Grand Region office in Grand Rapids announced Friday that M-66 will be closed between Huff and Day roads for culvert replacement work at Grass Creek through Sept. 25. Motorists are advised to use westbound M-79 to southbound M-37 to eastbound M-96 (Columbia Avenue) to M-66 as the detour route. Traffic updates from MDOT’s Grand Region are available at twitter.com/ MDOTWest. Up-to-date information on this project and others is in the list of statewide lane closures at michigan.gov/drive. See NEWS BRIEFS, page 2 Taylor Owens Staff Writer Ten more COVID-19 cases were reported by Thomapple Manor this week, bringing the total to 16 cases confirmed since Aug. 24. Early Wednesday afternoon, ten staff and six residents had tested positive for COVID­ 19, and new test results are coming back on a daily basis, Administrator Don Haney said. All confirmed cases are residents or employees of the rehabilitation unit of the assisted-living home, which is separate from the rest of the facility. The unit has 21 beds, 12 of which were filled Tuesday. Residents who test positive are moved to a COVID-19 isolation unit, which has been expanded to eight beds, Haney said. Most of the people with confirmed cases at Thomapple Manor have since reported symp­ toms, Haney said, although those symptoms have not been severe. Staff members have said their symptoms are consistent with a head cold. The first case of COVID-19 in the rehab unit was a resident who tested positive Aug. 27 from a test administered Aug. 24. “Right now, we believe that everyone that has come down with it were all as a direct result of our ‘Patient Zero,’ ” Haney said. That resident had arrived from a hospital and had tested negative immediately before, and after, coming to Thomapple Manor. Haney said the resident likely had the vims in their system when they came to the facility, but it had not progressed enough to test posi­ tive. Barry-Eaton District Health Department Planning, Promotion, and Evaluation Director Anne Barna said, in some cases, a person can have COVID-19, but the vims has not yet replicated to a high enough level for the test to register a positive result. In this case, the resident at Thomapple Manor later tested positive from a regular weekly test, which is done for all residents and staff. Then, by last Friday, two more res­ idents and two staff members had tested positive. Haney said the staff deep-cleaned the com­ mon areas in the rehab unit multiple times, and residents have been instmcted to stay in their rooms. Rehab staff wear surgical masks, gowns and face shields, and residents are asked to wear masks when they interact with staff, he said. Rooms used by residents who tested posi­ tive are deep-cleaned and isolated for 48 hours. The facility is currently closed to new admissions. Haney said maintaining staff levels at the rehab has been a stmggle, since COVID-19­ positive staff are quarantining at home, and the administrators do not want to risk further spread of the vims by moving staff between sections of the facility. Thursday marks 14 days since Thomapple Manor received the first positive result, iso­ lated the patient and took further steps to prevent spread of the virus. That number is important because ir w believed to be the maximum length of time for COVID-19 to manifest itself after a person is first exposed to the vims. Haney said he believes the cases at Thomapple Manor all connect back to that initial window of time, before those steps were taken. If that is the case, tests showing positive for COVID-19 should slow down, or cease altogether in the coming days. TowerPinkster Marketing Manager Chloe Beighley-Ludeke, on left, and Senior Project Manager Eric Hackman pitch the plan Tuesday to distribute materials on the ballot proposal. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) Commissioners OK cost to reach voters with jail request Rebecca Pierce Editor A bulk mail brochure, intended to educate residents about a Nov. 3 ballot proposal seek­ ing $25 million to build a new jail, will be paid,for by Barry County taxpayers. The total cost for one mailing of this elec­ tion literature to an estimated 28,000 potential voters in the county was estimated at $12,854, TowerPinkster Marketing Manager Chloe Beighley-Ludeke told commissioners Tuesday. After some discussion, commissioners unanimously approved a motion by Commissioner Jon Smelker, supported by Commissioner Howard Gibson, to authorize TowerPinkster to proceed with the informa­ tional material. “Where’s the money coming from?” Jack Miner, who was sitting in the audience, asked after the meeting had ended. “They can’t budget money for this.” As Smelker walked up, Miner, who is a n^m^er of the cqypjy planning commission, asked nm7 ^Where’s this money coming from? This is promoting this stuff.” Smelker replied that $20,000 had been bud­ geted as part of the county’s $70,000 contract with their consultant, TowerPinkster of Kalamazoo, to cover the cost of election materials. Smelker added that he had been advised this is not considered promotional material; it’s educational. See BROCHURES, page 5 Blitchok announces retirement at Thornapple Kellogg schools Greg Chandler Staff Writer A special meeting of the Thornapple Kellogg school board Wednesday night was expected to address the departure of Superintendent Rob Blitchok, whose retire­ ment announcement last week stunned the community. Blitchok, who has been the district’s super­ intendent since July 1, 2018, informed the school board late Tuesday, Sept. 1, of his plan to leave the district and retire, effective Sept. 30, board president Anne Hamming said Friday. Meanwhile, the district confirmed two CO VID-19 cases - one at Thomapple Kellogg Middle School and one at Page Elementary School - and has taken steps to contain the spread of the virus, Blitchok told families in a letter Tuesday, (see Page xx for more details on that story.) But the purpose of Wednesday’s meet­ ing, Hamming told The Banner in an email, was to focus on the superintendent search. They will confer with a consultant “to learn our timeline options for a search,” she wrote. “We will also discuss the process the board feels comfortable with for filling the interim.” “We will not be taking action tomorrow night,” Hamming said Tuesday. “We will take action on Monday.” The school board is expected to vote to accept Blitchok’s retirement at its regularly scheduled board meeting at 7 p.m. Sept. 14. Dave Killips, regional president of the Michigan Leadership Institute, said he planned to attend this week’s special meeting to answer questions from board members about the process moving forward. MLI has not been offered a contract to lead the superintendent search, he said. But Killips recently assisted Lakewood Public Schools in its superintendent search and hiring process, which concluded with the selection of new Superintendent Steve Skalka. Blitchok, 55, joined Thomapple Kellogg schools in 2014 as an assistant superintendent overseeing business and finance, human resources, transportation, facilities and food service. He was the lone candidate interviewed in April 2018 for the superintendent’s opening following the retirement of Superintendent Tom Enslen. Blitchok’s departure is for personal rea­ sons, school officials emphasized. “It’s under the very best of terms,” Hamming said. “He was very clear that he is tired, that it was just time for him to have more time with his family. He’s leaving the district in incredibly good shape.” The Banner obtained a copy of letter from Blitchok to school district residents that detailed his decision: “Dear Thomapple Kellogg Families, “After careful consideration and thought, I have announced my retirement from educa­ tion as of Sept. 30, 2020. It’s simply time for me to be able to spend more time with my family. “It has been an honor and a privilege to serve in this district the last seven years. I will be leaving TK Schools with countless positive experiences and memories. I am grateful for the support of the board of education, the TK Staff, and the community at large. “The board of education will meet soon to announce an interim superintendent to fill this leadership position and then will continue a planning process to hire your next superinten­ dent. “The community support for this district is genuine and special. I have no doubt your full support of the schools, students and the dedi­ cated staff who work here will continue and this district will remain TK Strong.” Topping the list of achievements for Blitchok during his tenure as superintendent was passage November 2019 of a $42.8 mil­ lion bond issue. “He was very happy at TK,” Hamming said. “Things were going very smoothly in the district, despite huge challenges posed by the pandemic. It’s purely a personal decision on his part.” Prior to joining Thornapple Kellogg, Blitchok served as teacher, varsity wrestling coach and principal for Forest Hills Public Schools. He also served on the Grandville Public Schools Board of Education. In addi­ tion, he has worked in the private sector in finance and holds a law degree. Delton Kellogg students are back in class Luke Froncheck Staff Writer With social-distancing guidelines and masks in place, Delton Kellogg Schools stu­ dents and staff entered the buildings Tuesday for their first school day since March. The first day was ordinary, for the most part, Superintendent Kyle Corlett said. But, in his 14 years of educating students, Corlett said he had never seen people so happy to be back in school. “Everyone had smiles on their faces,” he said. “There were really good vibes in all the buildings.” Wednesday morning, kindergarten teacher Becky Boze greeted her 14 students as they walked through her classroom door. “Children are adaptive and resilient,” Boze said. “They will make the best of a difficult situation.” The district’s elementary students are required to wear masks in the hallways and on buses, but, as soon as they enter their class­ rooms, they may remove their masks and let them hang from their necks on school-provid­ ed lanyards. The kindergarten students took their seats before they had free breakfast provided to them. The program is paid for through surplus funds in the district’s food service budget. Elementary students will receive free break­ fast and lunches through December, DKES Principal Karmin Bourdo said Wednesday morning. See DELTON, page 2 Kindergarten students Myren Franklin (left) and Case Blackbum say the Pledge of Allegiance to start their second day of school. (Photo by Luke Froncheck) �Page 2 — Thursday, September 10, 2020 — The Hastings Banner DELTON, continued from page 1 - Delton Kellogg preschool student Logan McCormick presents his teacher, Michelle Blackburn, with a breakfast made from toy food items. Preschool student Cole Dill and his teacher Michelle Blackburn sort animals based on where they “live.” After breakfast, all kindergarten students cleaned up their own spaces and began play­ ing with individualized containers of putty while conversing with their classmates. The students are separated into pods of three and spaced 6 feet apart, but Boze said Aekids didn’t seem to notice the new social ures; ■ <0^.. exciteffto be together and whanging to re-attach a mask to a lanyard for one of her students. “We’re trying to make things as normal as possible.” Paxton Boze, a kindergarten student in his grandmother’s class, said he was glad to be in school so he could play with friends and learn. Overall, Bourdo said, the first few days of school have gone well - with one low point. “Wehad a sinkhole in our rear parking lot,” Bourdo said Wednesday morning. After summer construction and the contin­ ued rain from this week, a kitchen table-sized hole developed in the east parking lot Tuesday. The sinkhole damaged new pavement where the old woodshop once stood. The building had been demolished over the sum- Kindergarten student Graham Matteson enjoys breakfast Wednesday morning. mer as part of a project provided by a recent bond. Bourdo said she believed there is an old drain or culvert in the ground that engineers missed. So, with all the rain, everything just sunk. Other than the sinkhole, Bourdo said it was a good first day of gcho&k “It wwyMst a typiq cal day. Teachers were elated to be back.” They did have ^some- issues with traffic back-up in the morning, but she and Corlett both credited the tie-up to rain and parents wanting to take a bit more time with their kids the first day. Several parents wanted to walk their stu­ dents into the buildings and were confused about the new drop-off and pick-up proce­ dure, Bourdo said. “It was busy, but all first days are crazy,” she said. Before school began, elementary teachers spent two days in professional development training focusing on student relationships and teacher resiliency. A major focus for Bourdo and her staff was building connections with students and supporting them. For the most part, Bourdo said there were no behavior incidents the first day. Even the students who would usually struggle with going back to school were happy to be in class and did not have issues, she said. Everyone was compliant with the new rules, high school Principal Lucas Trierweiler said, adding that it will take time for students to get used to the new requirements. A significant difference from past years, he said, was the amount of planning and prepara­ tion that took place beforehand. Bourdo and Corlett agreed, saying that a lot of time was spent in focus groups and collab­ orating to find the best return-to-school option. “I feel like I learn better at school than at home,” third-grader Addella Green said. Having school back in session brought a sense of normalcy, Corlett said. Bourdo said remote learning teachers were taking time this week to reach out to families and inform them of their expectations for the coming year. “There are still a few hiccups, but I feel confident with our online personal,” Corlett said. Online students will begin class next week. Barry Township eyes facility upgrades Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Upgrades - ranging from sidewalks to facilities to financial management - are under consideration in Barry Township. The township board met in person for about 15 minutes Tuesday night for a regular meeting when Supervisor Wesley Kahler offered a brief update. The township is in talks with a municipal finance adviser, Kahler said. He and township Clerk Deb Knight said they will meet with the adviser this week. The board also set a special meeting for 5 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 22, to discuss facility upgrades at the Hickory Comers Fire Station. Sidewalk upgrades also were a talking point for board members as Kahler announced he has approached two Delton businesses about extending the sidewalk about 200 yards north. Board members committed to replacing 200 yards of sidewalks in Hickory Corners, as well. The board also approved the winter tax levy. The township will collect the maximum 2 mills for the fire department and 1.75 mills of the available 2 mills for the police department. The next regular meeting will take place at the township hall, 155 East Orchard St., at 7 p.m. Oct. 13. Gravel pit back on table next Thursday Luke Froncheck Staff Writer A gravel pit operation proposed by Wilkinson Lake in Barry County’s Hope Township has galvanized a group of property owners there to ask the township to deny a special use application that would allow the project to proceed. The issue is expected to arise at the next planning commission meeting scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 17, at the township hall, 5463 South M-43 Highway. Residents’ apprehension about a decrease in property value consumed more than 90 minutes of public comment during the planning commission meeting last month. More than 50 residents virtually attended that Aug. 20 meeting to express concerns about the gravel pit proposal submitted by R. Smith and Sons Inc. of Allegan. If the township approves it, the gravel pit would start operating at 8409 Miller Road. The 153-acre property has 800 feet of Wilkinson Lake frontage and mining would occur on a 139-acres parcel. Before the August meeting, the Healthy Waters Alliance, representing property owners on Cloverdale, Wilkinson, Jones and Mud lakes, sent a Aug. 24 letter to planning commission members expressing their concerns about the proposal. The letter was written by members of the HWA board of directors, including Ellen and Gregg Berens, Brian Berger, Sue Bowyer, Christine Hunnicutt, Bill Krueger and Scott Matteson. Nuisance noise levels, dust and loss of natural beauty would “leave a scar on the land which would last for decades,” board members wrote. They expressed concerns about the location of the pit, its proximity to residential properties, and a potential decrease in property values should a mining operation be permitted. Attached to their letter, HWA board members included a report completed by George Erickcek, senior regional analyst for the W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research. The Richland Township Planning Commission had requested that report in 2006 after it received a mining operation proposal from Stoneco building resources of Middleville. The report estimated the potential economic impact of a gravel pit and the Richland Township Planning Commission later denied the proposal. In that case, Erickcek estimated that a proposed gravel mine would “have a significant negative impact on housing values in Richland Township.” “Once in full operation, the gravel mine will reduce residential property values in Richland and Richland Township by $31.5 million, adversely Tiripacting the values of bVef 1,400 hbm^sf^hich fepf&bnt over 60 percent of Richland residences,” that report stated. Also, that mining operation would have had an insignificant impact on area employment and personal income, his report stated. At most, Erickcek estimated, two additional jobs would have been created by Graphic provided by Healthy Waters Alliance the operation. “The closer the house to the proximity to the mine, the greater the loss in house value,” he wrote. “A residential property located a half-mile from the gravel mine would experience an estimated 20 percent reduction in value; one mile from the mine, a 14.5 percent reduction; two miles from the mine, an 8.9 percent reduction; and three miles from the mine, a 4.9 percent reduction.” In the Hope Township project, Roger Smith wrote in his Aug. 17 proposal to the Hope Township Planning Commission that property values have not been - and would not be affected by the operation. “Contrary to unfounded allegations often raised by opponents to mining, property values in the vicinity of the past or present gravel pits, or along established haul routes, do not reflect any material reduction in property value, compared with other properties in the township,” Smith wrote. “R. Smith and Sons Inc. looks forward to working with Hope Charter Township to provide a commodity for the citizens of the township and local communities at a competitive and econornical fate,” he wrote. If approved, the gravel pit would operate from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. But supply, demand, weather issues and road weight restrictions all influence operational time, Smith wrote. According to the HWA board, 179 property owners have riparian rights to the 280-acre chain of lakes. “Our lake community is a place of retreat and enjoyment of the area for its scenic beauty, serenity, and lake life activities.” In addition to potential negative impact on property values, residents raised concerns about noise coming from the operation. Sound and vibration would originate at the center of the mining operations, according to Smith. But earthen barriers, like the onsite stockpiles of sand and gravel, would buffer the impact, he wrote, comparing the noise that would come from the operation as similar tb sounds created by agriculture machinery and other practices used in farming. Residents also expressed concerns about dust from the operation and trucks traveling on adjacent roads. “Dust will be minimized from adjacent roads and points of ingress and egress through the use of the paved access drive,” Smith wrote. “If necessary, dust control will": be maintained with water and dust palliative.” The existing land parcel is zoned agricultural/resideniial and re quires a special­ use permit from the planning commission for a mining operation to proceed. The planning commission is responsible for creating and revising the township zoning ordinance and master land use plan, reviewing and deciding special exemption use permit applications, reviewing site plans, and making recommendations on proposed plats. EEE virus confirmed in local horse First human case of l/lfest Nile virus confirmed in Michigan A horse in Barry County died from Eastern Equine Encephalitis, the Barry-Eaton District Health Department Confirmed Friday. The horse became ill on Aug. 26. This is the first confirmed animal case of EEE in Barry County this year. Five cases of EEE in horses were reported statewide over the holiday weekend, more than double the number cases found by this time last year, state officials said. This rise in cases intensifies the need for horse owners to vaccinate their animals and for Michigan residents to take precautions. EEE is one of the most dangerous mosqui­ to-borne diseases in the U.S. that can affect both animals and humans. In 2019, Michigan experienced one of the worst outbreaks of EEE ever documented in the state, with 10 human cases—including six deaths—and 50 cases in animals from 20 counties. Because conditions are favorable for EEEcarrying mosquitoes at this time of year, peo­ ple living or visiting in Barry or Eaton coun­ ties should take precautions against mosquito bites, health department officials said. EEE cannot be spread between animals or between animals and humans, but humans can get EEE through the bite of an infected mos­ quito. Between 95 and 96 percent of cases of human EEE do not cause any symptoms, and less than 1 percent develop serious illness. However, EEE is potentially serious and symptoms include fever, weakness, and mus­ cle and joint pain. More severe illness can cause swelling of the brain and surrounding tissues. Anyone can be affected by EEE, but persons over age 60 and under age 15 are at greatest risk for developing severe disease, health experts warn. Cases of EEE have been confirmed in Barry, Clare, Kent, Montcalm, Newaygo and Oakland counties, they said. Also, in Wayne County last Thursday, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus. Nora Wineland, state veterinarian, said, “Whether you’re talking about West Nile, EEE or any other mosquito-borne disease, people and animal owners should take every precaution necessary to prevent infection. There is a lot happening in people’s lives right now, but we can’t let our guard down. “I strongly urge animal owners to work with their veterinarian to make sure all their animals are vaccinated appropriately.” To date, two birds have tested positive for West Nile virus in Lapeer and Oakland coun­ ties. In addition, 14 mosquito pools tested positive in five Michigan counties, including Arenac, Kent, Lapeer, Oakland and Saginaw. Finding infected birds, animals and mos­ quitoes in a community is an indication of risk for human infection. In 2019, the West Nile virus season was less severe, with only 12 human cases, includ­ ing two deaths, reported. Most people who become infected with West Nile will not develop any symptoms of illness. However, some become sick three to 15 days after exposure. About one in five infected persons will have mild illness with fever, and about one in 150 infected people will become severely ill. Mild illness may include headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting diarrhea or rash. Severe symptoms of West Nile are associated with encephalitis or meningitis, and may include stiff neck, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, muscle weakness, convulsions and paralysis. People 60 and older are more susceptible to these severe symptoms. Residents can stay healthy by using simple, effective strategies to protect themselves and their families. The following steps are recommended to avoid West Nile virus, EEE and other mosqui­ to-borne diseases: Apply insect repellents that contain the active ingredient DEET, or other EPAapproved product to exposed skin or clothing, and always follow the manufacturer’s direc­ tions for use. Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors. Apply insect repellent to clothing to help prevent bites. Maintain window and door screening to help keep mosquitoes outside. Empty water from mosquito breeding sites around the home, such as buckets, unused kiddie pools, old tires or similar sites where mosquitoes lay eggs. Use nets and/or fans over outdoor eating areas. For more information and surveillance activity about West Nile virus and other mos­ quito-borne viruses, visit Michigan.gov/westnilevirus. NEWS BRIEFS continued from front page Seniors may call about legal advice The Legal Services of South Central Michigan-Battle Creek office will con­ duct interviews for legal advice and possi­ ble representation, without charge, over the telephone to interested seniors who reside in Barry County. Senior residents who wish to speak with an attorney may call 269-224-5040, Wednesday, Sept. 16, between 10:30 a.m. and noon. A second opportunity to call will be from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25. Legal Services of South Central Michigan-Battle Creek office is a non­ profit organization that provides high-quality legal assistance, representa­ tion and education to seniors in Barry, Branch, Calhoun and St. Joseph counties. The agency seeks, through its board, staff, volunteers and pro bono attorneys, to ensure that its clients are given equal access to the justice system. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 10, 2020 —- Page 3 Employees service praised by county officials Sheriff’s Law Enforcement Information Network Terminal Agency Coordinator Paul Ballinger is honored for 15 years of service. He is pictured here with board Chairwoman Heather Wing and Sheriff Dar Leaf. In Leason Sharpe Hall at the Barry Community Enrichment Center Tuesday, audience members included (from left) Barry County Administrator Michael Brown, Treasurer Sue VandeCar, First Deputy Clerk Karen Barnes, TowerPinkster marketing manager Chloe Beighley-Ludeke, LEIN terminal agency coordinator Paul Ballinger, and Sheriff Dar Leaf. (Photos by Rebecca Pierce) County Treasurer Sue VandeCar recognizes First Deputy Treasurer Lorie Marcott for 25 years of service with board Chairwoman Heather Wing. First Deputy County Clerk Karen Barnes is honored for 25 years of service. Rebecca Pierce Editor The tradition of expressing appreciation to Barry County employees for years of service took place Tuesday - with several 25-year milestones marked. County Administrator Michael Brown received a standing ovation for his 25 years of service to the county. “Thanks. It’s hard to believe it’s 25 years,” Brown said, noting that a few others in the room would likely agree. “Wow, that went fast!” Brown said with a smile. The 25-year honorees included sheriff’s deputy Gary Pearson; the first deputy in the county clerk’s office, Karen Barnes; and the first deputy in the treasurer’s office, Lorie Marcott. All were praised for their dedication and service to the county. Other county employees were recognized for years of service. Sheriff Dar Leaf presented two awards to sheriff’s office employees: Deputy Travis Moore, for 20 years of service; and Law Enforcement Information Network patrol monitor Paul Ballinger, for 15 years of service; Maintenance supervisor Benjamin Strimback was honored for five years of service at Historic Charlton Park Village, Museum and Recreation Area by the park’s director, Dan Patton. Tonya Fox, office manager for the county trial division Friend of the Court, was recognized for five years of service by county Trial Court Divisional Administrator Daisey Chemiawski. During a break, Brown reflected on his work for the county, which began in 1995. Barry County Trial Court Divisional Administrator Daisey Chemiawski (from left) awards Friend of the Court office manager Tonya Fox with county board Chairwoman Heather Wing. County Administrator Michael Brown, who has been with the county for 25 years, is pictured with board Chairwoman Heather Wing. fence around the airport property to keep deer off the runways. The full board is expected to approve the expenditure next Tuesday. -Appointed Ryan Miller to the county remonumentation peer review board to fill a vacancy by the recent death of Robert Carr, Sheriff Dar Leaf congratulates sheriff’s Deputy Gary Pearson for 25 years of service. “When I started, it’s hard to believe, but there were very few computers,” Brown said. “Technology, everything moves so fast. It doesn’t seem like it. ... But it’s been good.” In other action, the board: -Adopted a resolution to establish and provide for the Middleville Wastewater Treatment Plant improvement project. -Approved up to 60 hours of compensatory time for between 50 and 60 non-law enforcement county employees who worked through the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic from March 24 to June 1. The comp time would be used for time off only, cannot be cashed in, and must be used within a year. -Approved the reappointment of Chelsey Foster to the Department of Health and Human Services Board for a new three-year term. Foster has been on the board since November 2013. -Approved the appointment of Casey Mickelson to the Community Corrections Advisory Board for a three-year term. Mickelson is currently supply chain manager for Versiti Blood Centers of Michigan and Indiana and is a former paramedic. -Approved a request by the Hastings City/ Barry County Airport to spend up to $100,000 of the airport’s reserves for constructing a Two CO VID cases reported at TK Schools Greg Chandler Staff Writer Two students at Thornapple Kellogg Schools - one who attends the middle school and another who is a student at Page Elementary School - have been diagnosed with the COVID-19 virus, the first cases reported in the district since classes began Aug. 25. Page Elementary is a fourth- and fifth-grade building. TK Superintendent Rob Blitchok Tuesday informed district parents about the positive cases. The students have been placed in isola­ tion, and anyone who was in close contact with those individuals have been notified and are home in quarantine, Blitchok wrote in a letter to parents. Barry-Eaton District Health Department spokeswoman Anne Barna confirmed Wednesday that the two cases were from a single household. “We do not suspect at this time there’s [viral] transmission going on at the school,” Barna said. As of Wednesday afternoon, there was no indication of any potential action by the TK district to switch its method of instruction to fully online. Prior to the start of the school year, district parents had the choice whether to have their children attend classes in person or virtually. The board of education was not expected to address the COVID-19 cases at their special board meeting Wednesday, pres­ ident Anne Hamming said. At Caledonia Community Schools, high school students are in their second week of fully online classes after some students tested positive for the virus during the first week of classes. As of Wednesday, the district is reporting eight confirmed cases of CO VID­ 19. The school will reopen for in-person instruction Monday if it receives clearance from the Kent County Health Department, Superintendent Dr. Dedrick Martin said. Elementary and middle school students in Caledonia continue to have both in-person and virtual instruction, which has been the case since classes began Aug. 25. School and health officials continue to encourage students and families to wear masks, practice social distancing, avoid large gatherings and wash hands frequently. Blitchok encouraged parents who have questions or concerns about the COVID-19 cases to call the health department, 269-945­ 9516 or 517-543-2430. and Susanne Huebner as grant administrator for the remonumentation program, replacing Rosemary Anger, who resigned. -Approved $4.3 million in invoices, $151,348 in claims and $331 in commissioner reimbursements (for mileage). Middleville joins villages lawsuit over EGLE requirements Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Village of Middleville is joining more than 20 other villages around the state in a pending lawsuit against the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy over new rules requiring villages to replace lead pipelines on private property at their own expense. The village council Tuesday voted 6-1 to join the suit, which is being pursued by the Village of Clinton, challenging EGLE’s requirement that villages cover the cost of replacing privately owned lead service lines to residences. Middleville Trustee Mike Cramer was the only no vote. “The state changed the law after the water incident with Flint, and is now making it our responsibility to deal with the pipes that go from the curb stop into the home,” Village Manager Patricia Rayl said. EGLE instituted the new lead and copper pipe rules in June 2018 under the Snyder Administration. “I think that’s what they call an unfunded mandate,” Rayl added. Up until recently, villages only had the responsibility for replacing pipes from the water main to the curb stop, Rayl said. In the letter signed by Clinton Village Manager Kevin Cornish and Village President Doris Kemner, the new EGLE rules conflict with the general law charter, which requires the cost of removing privately owned lead service lines to be borne by property owners, not the villages. “Protecting public health and safety is a priority for all of us, and the new administra­ tive rules trying to make our water systems safer is a noble pursuit,” the letter said. “However, these rules create real legal chal­ lenges for all of us. While the rules are intend­ ed to limit lead and copper in drinking water, the rules are contrary to the general law vil­ lage charter and the Michigan Constitution.” Rayl told council members that if Middleville has to replace the waterlines from the curb stop to the residences, it would affect about 360 homes. By comparison, if the vil­ lage only has to replace service lines up to the curb stop, it would affect 140 homes. The potential additional cost to the village is esti­ mated at $1.2 million, Rayl said. Middleville would pay anywhere from $714 to $2,000 for its share of the cost of joining the lawsuit, depending on how many villages eventually join in, Rayl said. “I think it would be money well spent,” Trustee Mike Lytle said. The Michigan Municipal League also is joining the villages in challenging the EGLE rules. The villages will be represented by Miller Canfield, a statewide law firm. “We would not have to appear in court, as far as I know,” Rayl said. In a telephone interview Wednesday, Cornish said he expected additional villages to join in the suit this month and possibly into next month, as well. Michigan has more than 200 general law villages, according to the letter from Cornish and Kemner. “By the end of October, I’ll know who wants to participate and who doesn’t,” Cornish said. “I think it sends a big message to the state if there’s a bigger number [of villages who join the suit].” �Page 4 — Thursday, September 10, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? Ready for music and more Indecisive county board wants decisive jail vote A new amphitheater at William Smith Park in Delton is almost ready for public use. However, the structure likely will not be used until the end of the year, or later due to gathering restrictions. An anony­ mous donor entirely funded the structure in fall 2019. Permit fees were the only cost incurred by Barry Township. Supervisor Wesley Kahler said the out­ door theater could be used for events such as the summer Music in the Park series and the annual August Founders Day celebration. Do you remember? Honored for ISD service Banner May 23,1973 Charles Faul (third from left) and Robert Williams (second from right) were presented plaques last week for their quarter of a century of service to the Barry County Intermediate School District Board of Education. Both were elected to the original Barry County Board of Education in 1947, and have served continuously since that time. Williams is currently the vice president of the board, and Faul is treasurer. Superintendent Lawrence B. Schlack (left) indicated it is unusual to ISD board Have you members in Michigan who have served without interruption since the establishment of these boards more than 25 years ago. Board members also noted that the president, Robert Gaskill, who has served for 11 years, is the son of Lloyd Gaskill, who was a member of the original county board. Pictured (from left) are Dr. Schlack, Lorin Stuck, Faul, Gaskill, Williams and G.M. Ketchum. met? In 2003, local artist and instructor at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, Lauren Tripp opened her art studio Brighter Shade of Blue and has spent the 17 years since creating art inspired by nature and the world around her. This love of nature and art emanates from Tripp’s childhood, spent primarily in Hastings. “I grew up for the most part in Hastings,” the former Lauren Coleman said. “I have always loved the outdoors, art and animals. I was the kid making magic potions outside with mud, berries and sticks.” Spending time outside fueled Tripp’s creative energy, and she began taking art classes at KIA. After graduating from Hastings High School, she knew she wanted to study art and enrolled at Western Michigan University. There, a friend convinced her to take a jewelry and metalsmithing class. Soon, Tripp was hooked. “Creating jewelry is like creating miniature sculptures that you can wear,” Tripp said, “After that first jewelry class I was hooked and continued to take both jewelry and sculpture for the duration of college.” Tripp opened her studio before graduating from WMU in 2004. Though the location of her studio has changed several times, she has continued to make jewelry. The jewelry­ making process is difficult and, over the years, failure has been an integral part of learning and growing, she said. “I fail all of the time, but I am always learning from my failures. Being an artist teaches you how to fail — fail miserably, fail according to others’ standards and also fail by breaking or melting things — but it also teaches you life moves on, and failing is part of learning,” Tripp said. Nearly nine years ago, Tripp began teaching jewelry and metalsmithing at KIA and has drawn on her hard-won knowledge to advise her students. “I always tell my students that jewelry is not for the faint of heart,” Tripp said. “Jewelry is like building tiny sculptures or structures, you have to work from the base up, and you have to do things in a particular order so that the piece has structural integrity and won’t bend or break while being worn.” For three years, she served as the co-chairwoman of the Jewelry and Metals Department at KIA, before stepping down after the birth of her daughter, Ollie. Tripp raises Ollie, now 5 years old, with her “awesome” husband of 11 years, Skyler Tripp. Lauren Tripp Now Tripp focuses on teaching, which she loves. However, like many, the coronavirus pandemic drastically changed her work life, and she now teaches classes online. While she misses her face-to-face interactions with students, she has noticed some advantages with online classes. “We are able to make art so much more accessible and can offer classes to those who may not be able to make the trek to Kalamazoo,” Tripp said. “Also, the classes are a bit more affordable because students are paying for the instruction and not the studio also.” Outside of her work life, Tripp has been an advocate for those with Type 1 diabetes since she was diagnosed with it 17 years ago. Her goal is to raise awareness for the seriousness of the disease and how difficult it can be to manage, particularly financially. “Type 1 diabetes is an extremely expensive disease,” Tripp said. “I advocate because we, as Type Is... deserve to be able to afford to live and manage our disease however we see fit, and not be defined by what we can and cannot afford. Our lives literally depend on it.” Tripp also started the Type 1 Diabetic Emergency Fund with the Barry Community Foundation. The fund is for those with Type 1 diabetes who cannot afford their insulin or other diabetic supplies. Type 1 diabetics living within 10 miles of Barry County may apply up to twice a year through the United Way. With what little free time she has, Tripp owns a small hops farm, teaches spinning and fitness classes at the Spectrum Pennock Health and Wellness Center, mountain bikes and enjoys spending time with her family and two dogs. For her advocacy, dedication to teaching and artwork, Lauren Tripp is this week’s Banner Bright Light. What inspires my art: Everything. I am a very visual person, so I am inspired a lot by nature, but also by everything I see around me. I tend to see shapes and lines in the world and notice textures. I also love mechanisms and things that move. What I would tell a high school graduate: You can have more than one career in your lifetime. Don’t let what you thought you want to do or be define you, you are allowed to be good at multiple things and you are allowed to fail when you are learning who and what you want to be — none of it is written into stone and life isn’t that serious. Also, a majority of adults have no idea what they are doing, we are doing the best we can with what we have. No one has it all figured out. Life is messy sometimes, but out of that mess comes beautiful things. Favorite historic period: My favorite art historic period of art is the Art Nouveau and the French Belle Epoque. Belle Epoque actually inspired the American Art Nouveau period. The art that came out of that era is not only beautiful but also of amazing craftsmanship. I also love the Renaissance period because most of our modern-day architecture is derived from the churches built during that time. Greatest things about Barry County: It is so absolutely beautiful here. I love to ride my bike on the gravel roads. We are so lucky to have so many acres of beautiful land here. I also love the philanthropic sense we have in our community. It is very unique and, in a way, very progressive compared to other communities. We are very good at investing in each other - and that is how every community should be. Each week, the Banner profiles a person who makes the community shine. Do you know someone who should be featured because of volunteer work, fun-loving personality, for the stories he or she has to tell or any other reason? Send information to Newsroom, Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058; or email news @j-adgraphics .com. A copy of the “Modem Day Politics” handbook must be in the top desk drawer of every Barry County commissioner with Rule No. 1 circled in red pen: “If you’re afraid to be wrong, just be indecisive.” Commissioners have followed that rule for five years now and have spent hundreds of thousands of taxpayer dollars trying to clear the fog around the question of building a new county jail. Now they think they’re showing decisive leadership by placing a $25 million request on the Nov. 3 ballot for taxpayer approval to replace the existing structure. But even that effort is showing just how perplexed commissioners are about the whole matter. “What’s going on with the jail project?” Commissioner Dan Parker asked at a recent county board meeting. Chairwoman Heather Wing responded that she had been in discussions with TowerPinkster, the Kalamazoo architectural and engineering firm hired as consultant for the campaign, and that it would be present­ ing some educational material for commis­ sioners to use during the ballot proposal initiative. A voice from the audience had to return the board to reality. “You’re already too late,” proclaimed Sharon Zebrowski during the public com­ ment portion of the meeting. “You need someone to run a millage campaign totally separate from you.” Commissioners seemed caught off guard on how to promote a taxpayer request that not only fails to identify a location for the new proposed structure, but also doesn’t even define if the jail would be a new build­ ing or a renovation of an also unnamed existing building. But that just seems to be par for the course. In 2015, the board hired TowerPinkster to complete a master plan for all county buildings in an effort to solve space and design problems in places like the courts, the Commission on Aging building and the aging jail. Now, five years later, all of the projects have been dealt with - other than the two largest and most expensive initiatives: the jail and the COA facility. Earlier this year, commissioners decided to put off the COA and focus on the jail. Yet, in the five-year span, they have failed to come up with a reasonable plan on which taxpayers could vote. Wendall Mayes, the noted Hollywood screenwriter, once said, “Indecision is a virus that can run through an army and destroy its will to win or even to survive.” That pretty much sums up the county board’s biggest problem: failing to put forth a decisive plan of action to solve the two biggest projects on its agenda. As the board’s high-paid consultant, Tower Pinkster’s work in this affair was to hold public meetings to educate taxpayers on the COA and the jail’s failing structure, then to determine the best action for the board and county taxpayers to take. Instead, the contrived dance turned out to be the lat­ est example of the public’s disconnect with elected officials. I witnessed that reality after attending two of the public meetings TowerPinkster held to convince taxpayers to replace the existing jail and COA building. The meetings were flawed in that the consultant failed to reach any sort of agreement on the issues - repre­ sentatives from the firm just acted as cheer­ leaders with little or no interest in what the public had to say. And why would they, given their own previously stated interest in bidding to become the architectural and engineering firm for the two projects? “With public sentiment, nothing can fail; without it, nothing can succeed,” Abraham Lincoln said. “Consequently, he who molds public sentiment goes deeper than he who enacts statutes and pronounces decisions.” Now, less than two months away from the election, commissioners are in a difficult position to mold public sentiment because, legally, they can’t use county funds to hire TowerPinkster to promote the millage - and it’s almost too late to find someone to run a successful campaign. TowerPinkster “will be assisting the board to provide neutral and factual infor­ mation only,” County Administrator Michael Brown said. “Because they have been hired with public funds, they [TowerPinkster] are under the same rules.” So, commissioners have to be very care­ ful about how they use TowerPinkster in the campaign. The firm can provide educational materials, but it can’t promote or ask for support of the project. I mentioned during one of the public meetings that for the county board to use its paid consultant to promote the millage is a conflict of interest and unlawful. But, at the time, I got no response. Plus, what kind of advice might the board get from TowerPinkster after having spent hundreds of thousands of dollars to come up with a plan that, in my eyes, is flawed. TowerPinkster provided the board with no specific plan. Instead, it is recommending three plans that the county board doesn’t even have to finalize until after taxpayers have voted. The first recommended possibility is to build a new facility next to the existing jail and then raze the old structure. The second is to acquire property for the jail, with the understanding that commis­ sioners decline to specifically identify the possible site because they feel it would drive up the costs. Apparently, their consultant failed to tell them that they could get a pur­ chase option on a site to hold the price and availability based on the outcome of the upcoming election. The third recommendation is to purchase an existing building and renovate it for use of the sheriff’s offices and jail. Again, like the recommendation to purchase property, residents will not know what building is under consideration until after they vote. A purchase option would have been the right way to hold the price and building until after the election, but commissioners don’t want voters to know the building they have under consideration. What public body would ask voters to support a $25 million plan to replace the existing jail without specifically disclosing how the money would be spent and where the new facility would be located? It’s the old con game of bait-and-switch: Give the public a number of options and, after the millage passes, TowerPinkster will convince the commissioners to choose the best option. It’s ludicrous! What’s even more disturbing is that this craven political indecisiveness is becoming an even wider leadership blight. As part of our August primary coverage, our reporters interviewed most of the local candidates for public office with a list of questions, one of which was, “What is your stance on the Nov. 3 request for a $25 million levy to build a new county jail/sheriff’s office?” The general response from nearly all the candidates who responded to the question was that it would cost more to renovate and upgrade the existing aging facility than it would to build a new structure. Some noted that we’ve been talking about the project for years and it’s time now to make a decision. What’s troubling is that none of these candi­ dates offered any serious suggestions on where the facility should be located, how big it should be or how much we should be willing to spend on a new structure. Those were issues that should have come from candidates looking to fill leadership posi­ tions throughout the county - because some of these candidates were elected to local positions. With so much at stake, why do our county leaders waffle and struggle with deci­ sion-making? Three primary reasons come to mind: They lack clarity, even after spend­ ing thousands on a consultant that in the end left them with an undefined request. They lack confidence. After years of discussion on the issue, they still aren’t confident enough to come up with a clear request for a new jail. And third, they lack consensus. After months of discussion, several public meetings and a pile of information, they still were unable to come together with a propos­ al to ask voters to support them with a $25 million millage for the jail. In short, our county commissioners are asking us to trust them. Are you kidding me? Few things are as paralyzing and demoralizing to taxpayers as the level of indecision we’ve seen on this request. It’s time for voters to say, “No” and send the job back to commissioners for some clarity on the issue. Just because we’ve been talking about this for several years doesn’t mean we should throw a pile of money at the problem in the hope that commissioners have our best interests at heart. It’s a bad proposal that should be overwhelmingly rejected by voters. Fred Jacobs, CEO, J-Ad Graphics Inc. What public body would ask voters to support a $25 million plan to replace the existing jail without specifically disclosing how the money would be spent and where the new facility would be located? �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 10, 2020 — Page 5 JAIL, continued from page 1 BARRY COUNTY New Jail and Sheriff’s Office 2020 Bond Proposal Every vote - and every voter - matters To the editor: What excuses have you heard, or perhaps voiced yourself, for not voting? “My vote won’t count. I’ll vote for X while someone else votes for Y, and they’ll just can­ cel each other out.” “It doesn’t matter. The politicians won’t keep their promises; they’re going to do what­ ever they want to do anyway.” “My candidate lost in the primary, and I won’t vote for the person who got the spot.” “It’s just a local race; I only vote for state and national positions.” “Don’t blame me -1 didn’t vote.” I am amazed when I read about voter turn­ out in other countries, especially in nascent democracies, and compare those impressive percentages to our dismal voter turnout. In many countries, voting is an act of courage since people risk getting their hands, or heads, cut off as they try to be counted. This experiment called “democracy” is the governing of the people, by the people they elect, for the common good of the populace. If we don’t use the power given to us meaning if we don’t vote - our leaders might assume they know what’s good for America based on skewed signals they are receiving. If we take our civic duty seriously and make sure we each cast a ballot, a higher voter turnout just might show those elected that their constituents care about what is going on in the legislative halls and the school boards, the judge’s chambers and the county offices, in Lansing and in Washington, D.C., and that we are keeping an eye on them. If you are voting with a mail-in or drop-off ballot, vote early. If you plan to go to your polling station, get there early. Do not lolly­ gag on this. Your voice, your vote is import­ ant. Christina Bush, Nashville The current Barry County Jail and Sheriff’s Office at 1212 W. State St. in Hastings is a 97-bed facility that was built in 1972 and last renovated in 1996. (Photo by Scott Harmsen) “This is what they tell me is fact,” Smelker replied, indicating the TowerPinkster bro­ chures about the jail proposal. “I’m not an attorney. ...Michael (Brown) has been in touch with an attorney.” Last Tuesday, at the Committee of the Whole meeting, senior project manager Eric Hackman and Beighley-Ludeke outlined a four-facet plan for commissioners to inform voters about the bond proposal. Their communications proposal includes a website with details about the jail project, Hackman said, as well as links and prior com­ munity forum presentations. A multi-page newsletter with information about the current 97-bed jail and the challeng­ es it faces, a “frequently asked questions” section and sample ballot language are includ­ ed in the materials. A newsletter which would be available at county offices, would include information targeted to those voters who are Luke Froncheck Staff Writer The Barry Intermediate School District Board of Education is filling a vacant seat with a local school board veteran. During a regular meeting Tuesday, board members voted to accept Marsha Bassett as trustee in the post vacated by former treasurer Sharon Boyle, who resigned in August. Bassett previously served on the Delton Kellogg Board of Education for 17 years, stepping down in August 2019, and has served as the president of the Delton Kellogg Education Foundation since 2014. “I’m passionate about not only kids but the education of children,” Bassett told board members Tuesday. “I’ve thought about being on this board before. I’ve had a lot of connection here.” Bassett was approved for the post as board members met in person Tuesday morning, with a virtual option offered as well during that regular board meeting. BISD Assistant Superintendent Dawn Weeks also updated board members on the new behavior program and the corresponding center-based classroom and seclusion rooms. The new center-based classroom is intended to fit the needs of students who find it challenging to learn in a conventional school environment, BISD Superintendent Richard Franklin said in June. “The staff has been working hard,” Weeks Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; U.S. mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Gary Peters, Democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510­ 2202, phone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room 720, 110 Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 233­ 9150. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Bcllllieir Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 News and press releases: news@j-adgraphics.com •Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com Frederic Jacobs • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Publisher & GEO Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Hank Schuuring CFO • NEWSROOM • Rebecca Pierce (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer (Sports Editor) Sophie Bates Greg Chandler Luke Froncheck Taylor Owens Scott Ommen Mike Gilmore told board members Tuesday. The first student in the program began Wednesday. Another student has applied to attend the program virtually. Weeks said she and her staff met with Hastings Police Chief Jeff Pratt to discuss the program. “We’re very fortunate to work with Chief Pratt,” BISD Board President Bob Becker said. “He is incredibly supportive of people in the city of Hastings.” Pratt offered support for students and gave staff members a number to call so he can be available to assist them at all times, Weeks said. “We wanted to make them aware we’re working with people with disabilities,” Weeks said. Construction on the seclusion rooms will begin soon, Franklin said. The plan is to convert space adjacent to the behavior classroom. Franklin also gave board members an update on the transition of the Great Start Readiness and Great Start Collaborative programs to Calhoun Intermediate School District. State aid payments will go directly to those programs, Franklin told board members. Most GSRP and GSC programs do not begin until Oct. 1 or later, Franklin said. Any intermediate school district able to start earlier is operating through its general fund or carryover funding from previous school years. The GSRP program does not operate like GUEST COLUMN Know Your Legislators: Ty Greenfield Jennie Yonker Subscription Rates: $52 per year in Barry County $60 per year in adjoining counties $65 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box 188 Hastings, Ml 49058-0188 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, Ml 49058 ELECTION DAY IS TUESDAY, NOV. 3! The Mission of Barry County’s Sheriff’s Office is to provide a full spectrum of professional corrections and law enforcement services to ensure our community continues to progress as a safe and secure place to live, work and visit An estimated 28,000 potential voters in Barry County will receive a mailing of a brochure to educate them about the Nov. 3 ballot request asking for $25 million to pay for a new jail and sheriff’s office. Brochures and a multi-page newsletter will include details about the existing facil­ ity and frequently asked questions. (Provided by TowerPinkster) arry ISD names new board member iWrite Us A Letter:____________ The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: •All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor........ • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. expected to cast absentee ballots. If approved, the bond issue would be paid over a period of 25 years by a levy of 0.1722 mills in its first year and a levy of 0.4501 mills over the remaining years of the issue. It would fund construction of a 110-bed facility that would have the flexibility to eventually expand to 166 beds. The levy would cost the owner of a home with a $50,000 taxable value an additional $8.61 in taxes the first year of the levy and $22.51 annually thereafter. The current jail was built in 1972 and last renovated in 1996. Issues that were cited in a 2014 facility assessment included: antiquated mechanical and electrical systems, ventilation systems and fire alarm coverage that do not meet code requirements, deteriorating build­ ing finishes and fixtures, an undersized book­ ing area, and a roof that needs replacing. Michigan should seek to protect donor privacy Sean Parnell You’ve heard about large donations from organizations such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, or Jeff Bezos, especially now as the country continues to grapple with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. But there’s one major donor you’ve never heard about. This donor has given tens of millions of dollars since the pandemic began. This donor has helped untold numbers of Michiganders and Americans. This generous giver has given $150,000 in matching gifts to the Salvation Army Eastern Michigan District (basically, the Detroit area) to spur additional giving to support its work aiding low-income individuals and families facing layoffs, cuts in working hours, and challenges with childcare as a result of the pandemic. Our mystery philanthropist has given $55,000 in the Traverse city region to the Urgent Needs Fund at the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation, and given $20,000 in Kalamazoo to support the staff at Residential Opportunities Inc., a nonprofit that operates residential group homes, supported living services, and other assistance to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Who is this donor that is seemingly everywhere? This donor is “Anonymous.” Anonymous donors have long been a vital part of American philanthropy and have made countless impacts over the years here in Michigan and beyond. It may seem strange to many people that generous donors would insist on keeping their giving private, but anonymous charity has been a longstanding tradition within philanthropy for at least two millennia. The Gospel of Matthew records Jesus instructing his disciples to “Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men,” and, “Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you...” Judaism, Islam, and Hinduism also have teachings that encourage anonymous charitable giving, and many philanthropists point to their religious convictions as their main reason for keeping their giving private. Some prefer not to have their own names overshadow the good work of the charities they give to. For others, they have a connection to the institution they are giving to that would make it awkward to be acknowledged as the donor. A few years ago, a donor to a Florida college requested that his gift be anonymous because his daughter was a student and he didn’t want to draw attention to her. Many simply prefer to avoid the public spotlight that can come with generous giving. Regardless of their reasons for anonymity, anonymous donors should be protected. Unfortunately, former Gov. Rick Snyder vetoed a bill in late 2018 that would have ensured that Michigan’s elected officials and their staff couldn’t demand donor lists and release them to the public. (The bill would not have affected donations to political candidates and parties, which would still be disclosed.) This unwise veto leaves anonymous giving in Michigan in jeopardy and runs the risk that some givers will choose to reduce or change their giving if they don’t believe their donations will be kept private. A decrease in giving would harm many charities and individuals who rely on philanthropy and the contributions of anonymous givers. It is clear that we must protect the vital role these donors play in our communities and states. This year, several other states have taken the lead to pass legislation - typically with large bi-partisan majorities - to protect anonymous givers. Michigan should follow suit and ask our elected officials to protect donor privacy and ensure the great impact of anonymous giving continues unabated in our state. Sean Parnell is Senior Fellow in Philanthropic Freedom at The Philanthropy Roundtable. K-12 education, where students are enrolled and counted later. Intermediate school districts receive GSRP funding based on how many program slots they have available, Franklin said. ISD officials do not know how many spots they will be able to fill until after the state passes the budget. State officials then inform ISDs how many students will be funded. The Community Action Agency will operate the GSRP program in Barry County. The next Barry ISD regular board meeting is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 23, at the administrative office, 535 W. Woodlawn Ave. In other business, the board: -Approved the hiring of social worker Alexis Senchak. -Allocated $2,998 to Delton Kellogg and $8,895 in Medicaid outreach funding. Weeks said the money for local districts is to pay for staff like social workers and paraprofessionals. -Elected former board president Elizabeth Matteson to the open treasurer’s position. -Set a special meeting at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 22, for the superintendent evaluation. -Heard an update from Franklin that local districts would be submitting return-to-leam goals and extended continuity of learning plans for approval. Foundation offering grants; applications due by Oct. 15 To allocate resources in the most effective manner, influencing a vibrant, healthy com­ munity for the residents of Barry County, the Barry Community Foundation has identified the seven elements of a healthy community. Grant applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. Oct. 15 for distribution in December. The foundation’s grant committee will review all eligible applications and make rec­ ommendations to the board of directors for approval. Eligible applications must support the Barry County community and its residents and be an organization with an IRS designa­ tion. In addition, applying organizations must work to address one or more of the following seven elements of a healthy community: - Provide broad access to arts and culture. Encourage a wide variety of recreational, his­ torical and cultural opportunities. - Meet the basic needs of residents. Create a compassionate social, economic and politi­ cal environment where people have full opportunities to meet basic needs for them­ selves and their families, to build assets, and to advance themselves. - Ensure a vibrant and diversified economy. Foster an economy that is diverse, vital and innovative, that grows strong businesses and business districts, and creates adequate jobs and income for residents. - Create quality education and learning opportunities for all ages. Open itself to new ideas and provide high-quality education and life-long learning for all members of the com­ munity. - Protect and steward the natural environ­ ment. Help preserve and sustain the environ­ ment. - Promote health and wellness. Assure access to high-quality health services on a personal, community and systems level and promote a healthy lifestyle. - Foster strong and connected neighbor­ hoods and communities. Assure equal oppor­ tunity for all individuals to participate in and influence decisions that affect each of their lives and embraces diversity and promotes a sense of community. Applications can be found on the founda­ tion’s website, barrycf.org. �■ ■■ Elaine Garlock We read about Zoom meeting and other electronic means of people doing business. It is a new day. This weekend we have just observed Labor day. Likely it was very low key for nearly everyone. In the past, Belding had its largest celebration of the year on this weekend, as did Woodland. Next Sunday Central United Methodist Church will return to its usual hour with worship service at 10:30 a.m., preceded by Sunday School classes at 9:15. The Sept. 6 service was held indoors because of the cool weather and the threat of rain. The Mid-Michigan district of United Methodist Women, which involves many unites in and near Barry County, will hold its fall annual meeting via Zoom Sept. 16. This will be viewed on the big screen at Central NOTICE TO THE RESIDENTS OF BARRY COUNTY Notice is hereby given that the Barry County Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing for the following: Case Number: SP-6-2020 - Suzan Miller (Property Owner) Location: 14981 Uldriks Drive, Battle Creek, in Section 29 of Johnstown Township. Purpose: Requesting a special use permit to operate a Contractor’s Facility pursuant to Article 23, Section 2319 in the RR (Rural Residential) zon­ ing district. Case Number: SP-7-2020 - John V. How­ land (Property Owner) Location: 5065 East Center Road, Hastings, in Section 18 of Castleton Township. Purpose: Requesting a special use permit for a small engine repair shop, as a Home Occupa­ tion-Major pursuant to Article 23, Section 2339 in the RR (Rural Residential) zoning district. MEETING DATE: September 28, 2020. TIME: 7:00 PM. PLACE: Tyden Center, Community Room, 121 South Church Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Site inspections of the above described properties will be completed by the Planning Commission members before the hearing. Interested persons desiring to present their views upon an appeal, either verbally or in writing, will be given the opportunity to be heard at the above mentioned place and time. Any written response may be mailed to the address listed below, faxed to (269) 948-4820, or emailed to Barry County Planning Director James McManus at imcmanus@barrycounty.org. The special use applications are available for public inspection at the Barry County Planning Department, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, during the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Friday. Please call the Barry County Planning Department at (269) 945-1290 for further information. The County of Barry will provide necessary auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon ten (10) days notice to the County of Barry. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Barry by writing or call the following: Michael Brown, County Administrator, 220 West State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058, (269) 945-1284. Pamela A. Palmer, Barry County Clerk 147025 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicatureactof 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on October 8, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Jack Barrus, and Cecilene Barrus, husband and wife, Gale Barrus and Teresa Barrus, a married couple and Kim Terpening a single woman, all as joint tenants with rights of survivorship Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): The Bank of New York Mellon, F/K/A The Bank of New York as trustee for registered Holders of CWABS, Inc., Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2006-3 Date of Mortgage: December 19, 2005 Date of Mortgage Recording: January 10, 2006 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $70,607.51 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: A parcel of land in the Northeast fractional 1/4 of Section 33, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, described as commencing 14 and 1/2 Rods South of where the North line of said Section 33 crosses highway M-37, thence East 14 rods, thence South 3 rods, thence West 14 rods, thence North 3 rods to the place of beginning. Common street address (if any): 9035 S M 37 Hwy, Dowling, Ml 49050-8709 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: September 10,2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1420869 (09-10)(10-01) 146975 UMC. Ladies from other units are welcome to join the ladies of Central, especially if their own churches do not have the screen capability. This event had been planned for St. Louis United Methodist Women. The meeting will include necessary business and reports, plus a speaker, convening at 10:30 a.m. Attendees should bring a sack lunch. The recent work at West Elementary School amounted to more than new paving. The lawn area on the west side of the building was reduced to make space in the drivway/ parking area to accommodate marked spots for 15 school buses parking on the diagonal east of the traditional parking strip along the west side of the school property. Previously the school buses parked lengthwise along the east side of the wide driveway. To reduce crowding in hallways, students enter from several doorways. NOTICE TO CREDITORS James L. Sprague of 2532 Barber Rd., Hastings, Michigan 49058 has been appointed Personal Representative of the Estate of Evelyn D. Sprague, born October 9, 1934 deceased August 17, 2020. All persons having claims against the above estate are required to present them to the personal representative within 4 months after the date of the first publication of this notice or be forever barred. NOTICE TO CREDITORS TRUST In the matter of the Geraldine K. Barnes Trust dated June 19, 2009. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Geraldine K. Barnes, born October 4, 1937, who lied at 1894 Parker Drive, Wayland, Michigan died August 7, 2020 leaving a certain trust under the name of the Geraldine K. Barnes Trust and dated June 19, 2009, wherein the decedent was the Settlor and Judith A. Kline was named as the trustee serving at the time of or as a result of the decedents death. Creditors of the decedent and of the trust are notified that all claims against the decedents or against the trust will be forever barred unless presented to Judith A. Kline, the named trustee at 696 110th Avenue, Plainwell, Michigan within 4 months of the date of publication of this notice. Date: September 2, 2020 Robert L. Byington P-27621 222 West Apple Street, RO. Box 248 Hastings, Michigan 49058 269-945-9557 Judith A. Kline 696 110th Avenue Plainwell, Michigan 49080 147218 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicatureactof 1961,1961 PA236, MCL600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on October 8, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Joshua H Taylor, Married Man Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Freedom Mortgage Corporation Date of Mortgage: March 26, 2015 Date of Mortgage Recording: April 14, 2015 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $112,621.99 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Commencing at the East 1/4 post of Section 20, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, Hope Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence South along the East line of said Section 20, 509.62 feet to the centerline of Highway M-43; thence South 77 degrees 25 minutes 20 seconds West along the centerline of said Highway M-43 and its extension Southwesterly 1373.81 feet; thence South 08 degrees 30 minutes 00 seconds West 29.47 feet to a point in the centerline of Gurnsey Lake Road and the place of beginning; thence North 66 degrees 49 minutes 25 seconds East along the centerline of said Gurnsey Lake Road 138.99 feet; thence South 30 degrees 47 minutes 11 seconds West 361.52 feet; thence North 70 degrees 22 minutes 19 seconds West 110.60 feet; thence North 03 degrees 19 minutes 25 seconds East 205.45 feet to the centerline of said Gurnsey Lake Road, thence South 82 degrees 22 minutes 35 seconds East along the centerline of said Gurnsey Lake Road 99.95 feet; thence North 59 degrees 41 minutes 25 seconds East continuing along the centerline of said Gurnsey Lake Road 50.11 feet; thence North 77 degrees 31 minutes 25 seconds East continuing along centerline of said Gurnsey Lake Road 7.38 feet to the place of beginning. The Northerly 33.00 feet of the above described parcel, adjacent to Gurnsey Lake Road, being subject to an easement for public highway purposes. Common street address (if any): 5295 Guernsey Lake Rd, Delton, Ml 49046-9673 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241 a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: September 3, 2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1420832 (09-03)(09-24) 146916 Wilma N. Day Rose C. Patten-Knoll Wilma N. Day, age 99 years, of Nashville died Sunday, August 30, 2020 at Carveth Village Assisted Living in Middleville where she had been a resident since 2006. She was born December 7, 1920 in Nashville, the daughter of George W. and Nettie S (Ackett) Parrott. She attended Nashville Schools and graduated in 1939, receiving the honor of “Best All-around Good Student”. She was united in marriage to Eldon C. Day on June 1, 1940. She was employed in the office Dr. Thomas Myers for over 30 years, retiring in 1985. Wilma was a member of the former EUB Church and a charter member of the Nashville United Methodist Church. She was an active member of the church’s Rebekah Circle, Builders Class, Choir and Women’s Breakfast Group. She enjoyed being with her family, surrounded by her grand children and great-grand children, sewing, crocheting, baking and reading. She is survived by her son, Douglas (Karen) Day of Newaygo, and daughter, Judy (Marvin) Laurie of Nashville; five grandchildren; Debbie (Colin) Erb, Tim (Felicity) Laurie, Dawn (Roland) Neibarger, Scott (Dietta) Day and Amy (Rey) Leal, ten great grandchildren, eight great-great grandchildren, and sisters-in-law, Rita Parrott and Janice Day. Proceeding her in death was her husband, Eldon; brothers, Albert, Clayton and Forrest Parrott, and sisters, Elinore Graham and Villa Marie Parrott. Memorials may be made to the Nashville United Methodist Church Memorial Fund or the Maple Valley Scholarship Fund. Funeral service are being conducted privately Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville. For further details please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome .net Rose C. Patten-Knoll, age 92, of Hastings, passed away on September 5,2020. Rose was bom at her home in Georgetown Township in Ottawa County on Thanksgiving Day, November 24, 1927, to Nicholas and Reka (Klomp) Piccard. She was born just late enough for her mom to enjoy Thanksgiving dinner before going into labor. She was the FAVORITE sister of eight brothers. Rose was a 1945 graduate of Union High School. On December 6, 1947, Rose married Jack Lyman Patten, and they were married for 37 years until Jack’s death on March 25, 1985. She married Herman Knoll on October 14, 1994, and they were married for 19 years until his death on March 11,2014. Rose retired from Patten Monument Manufacturing Company at the age of 85 in February 2013. The business was started by her father-in-law in Grand Rapids. Rose and Jack moved from Grand Rapids to Hastings in the early 1950s and worked together to raise their family and establish the family business. Before her marriage to Jack, she worked in the payroll department at Michigan Bakery in Grand Rapids. Rose enjoyed cross-stitching and made beautiful quilt tops. She also enjoyed traveling. She especially enjoyed taking her grandchildren on trips to museums and areas of historical significance and Bible Study. She had been a member of Hastings Baptist Church, Algonquin Lake Bible Church, and after her marriage to Herman, they attended Calvary Nondenominational church in Grand Rapids. She was the Proverbs 31 woman. She worked hard with her husband in business; and she always cared for her family, whether it be her parents, especially her mother, with whom she had a special bond, her brothers, her children and grandchildren or others that God brought into her life. Rose was preceded in death by her husbands, Jack Lyman Patten and Herman Knoll; her parents, Nicholas and Reka (Klomp) Piccard; brothers, Edward, Henry, Gerald, Richard, Clarence, and Melvin Piccard, and daughter-in-law, Pamela (Sherman) Patten. She is survived by her children, Jerry Patten, Sherry Frye and Mary (Ron) Holley all of Hastings. Herman’s children, Gail and Scott Broekema, Sr., Gary and Lynn (Hammer) Knoll, Bruce and Lisa Ramsey all of Grand Rapids. Several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren. Brothers Leroy and Ida Marie Piccard of Anchorage, Alaska, Marvin and Dee Piccard of Sparta; sisters-in-law, Joyce Piccard of Jenison, and Patricia Piccard of Boise, Idaho, and several nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Mel Trotter Ministries, 225 Commerce Avenue SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 or https://www.meltrotter.org/ or the Student Statesmanship Institute (SSI) 4407 W. St. Joe Hwy; Lansing, MI 48917. Her service will be held on Thursday, Sept. 10, 2020 at 11 a.m. at Hickory Corners Bible Church, 13720 Kellogg School Rd, Hickory Corners, MI 49060 with a visitation one-hour prior. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome .net. Little s Country Store robbers sentenced Taylor Owens Staff Writer Two more people convicted of robbing Little’s Country Store on Thornapple Lake earlier this year have been sentenced. Ryan Keith Harston, 25, of Vermontville, and Mandy Kay Gallup, 45, of Nashville, were both convicted of breaking and entering at the store Feb. 22. Harston, and 38-year-old Justin Joshua Miller of Battle Creek, broke into the store together and stole nearly $1,000 from a hiding spot. They were told about the secret stash by Gallup, a former employee of the store. Police quickly tracked them from the store to Gallup’s nearby residence. All three people W JHmw JMmv AW JL 1NCITICF TVF A 1 VyUO STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL DISTRICT 5TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION/POSTING AND NOTICE OF ACTION CASE NO. 20-449-CH Court address: Barry County Courthouse Floor 2 220 W. State St., Hastings, Ml 49058 Court Telephone no.: (269) 945-1286 Plaintiff The Great Lakes District of the Wesleyan Church, F/K/A The West Michigan District of the Wesleyan Church Plaintiff’s Attorney Ronald J. Vander Veen (P33067) Cunningham Dalman, PC, 321 Settlers Road, PC Box 1767, Holland, Ml 49422-1767 (616)392-1821 v Defendant Robert Byington, Suzy Byington, Patricia Byington, Robert Byington, Henry M. Byington, and B. Jane Byington (addresses unknown) TO: Robert Byington, Suzy Byington, Patricia Byington, Robert Byington, Henry M. Byington, and B. Jane Byington IT IS ORDERED: 1. You are being sued by plaintiff in this court to quiet title to the property known as 4395 W. Hickory Road, Hickory Corners, Barry County, Michigan. You must file your answer or take other action permitted by law in this court at the court address above on or before October 15, 2020. If you fail to do so, a default judgment may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint filed in this case. 2. A copy of this order shall be published once each week in The Hastings Banner for three consecutive weeks, and proof of publication shall be filed in this court. 3. Plaintiff shall arrange to post a copy of this order in the courthouse, and at Barry Township Hall, 1300 S. M-43 Hwy., Delton, Mi 49046 for three continuous weeks, and shall file proof of posting in this court. Date: August 25, 2020 Vicky L. Alspaugh P92573 146837 were sitting in Gallup’s living room, with the money hidden under the furniture. Judge Michael Schipper sentenced Harston to serve 180 days in jail, with credit for 180 days served, and ordered him to pay $938 in fines and costs. He was ordered to serve 36 months on probation as well as enter and suc­ cessfully complete the Barry County Swift and Sure Sanctions program with a fee of $40 a month and pay probation supervision fees of $30 a month or $60 a month for electronic monitoring. Gallup was sentenced by Schipper to serve 90 days in jail, with credit for one day served, and pay $398 in fines and costs. She was ordered to serve 36 months on probation as well as enter and successfully complete the Swift and Sure Sanctions program with a fee of $40 a month and pay probation supervision fees of $30 a month or $60 a month for elec­ tronic monitoring. Miller was previously sentenced by Schipper to 117 days in jail, with credit for 117 days served, and ordered to pay $1,048 in fines and costs. He was placed on probation for 36 months and ordered to remain in jail until a tether could be placed. His monthly supervision fee is $30 a month, or $60 a month when electronic monitoring is used. Boot camp was recommended when room is available. SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Learn to identify scams Vonda Van Til Public Affairs Specialist The most effective way to defeat scammers is to know how to identify scams. You should just hang up on any call you’re uncertain of and ignore suspicious emails. Scammers are always finding new ways to steal your money and personal information by exploiting your fears. One common tactic scammers use is posing as federal agents and other law enforcement. They may say your Social Security number is linked to a crime. They may even threaten to arrest you if you do not comply with their instructions. Just hang up. As a reminder, you should continue to remain vigilant of phone calls when someone says there’s a problem with your Social Security number or your benefits. If you owe money to Social Security, we will mail you a letter explaining your rights, payment options and information about appealing. There are a few ways to help identify a scam call. If you do business with us, remember that we will never: x-* H /t L Afr ■< • Threaten you with benefit suspension, arrest or other legal action unless you pay a fine or fee. • Promise a benefit increase or other assistance in exchange for payment. • Require payment by retail gift card, cash, wire transfer, internet currency, or prepaid debit card. • Demand secrecy from you in handling a Social Security-related problem. • Send official letters or reports containing personally identifiable information via email. If you do not have ongoing business with our agency, it is unlikely we will contact you. If you get a suspicious call claiming to be from Social Security, you should hang up and report it to our law enforcement office at oig. ssa.gov. Vonda Van Til is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her do Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525, or email vonda .vantil @ ssa .gov. * Traditional and Cremation Services * Pre-Planning Services . Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible Serving All Faiths Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 269-9453252 • www.girrbachfuneralhome.net Owner/Manager Family Owned and Operated Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 50 years �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 10, 2020 — Page 7 Worship Together Provided by the Barry County offices of Edward Jones Jim Lundin Member SIPC Jeff Domenico, AANIS® 450 Meadow Run Dr. Suite 100 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-8265 2169 W. M-43-Hwy., Suite A Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 818-0423 ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... Grandparents: Consider these financial moves Each year, on the first Sunday after Labor Day, we observe National Grand­ parents Day. Al-though it’s not as widely recognized as Mother’s Day or Father’s Day, if you’re a grandpar­ ent, you probably want to do whatever you can to help your grandchildren on their journeys through life. So, you might want to consider the following moves: • Contribute to their ed­ ucation. If you want to help your grandchildren pay for college, you have a variety of options, including 529 plans. You could also sim­ ply set aside some money in an investment account ear­ marked for education. But you don’t just have to stick to helping out financially you might also want to do some research to see what scholarships are available. • Consider a UGMA/ UTMA account. The Uni­ form Gifts to Minors Act (UGMA) and Uniform Transfer to Minors Act (UTMA) are custodial ac­ counts that provide a rela­ tively easy way for you to give money to your young grandchildren. A financial advisor can help determine if such a plan is right for you. However, once you put money into the UGMA or UTMA, you no longer have any legal access or authori­ ty over the funds unless you are the custodian managing the account. After children reach the age of majority - typically 18 or 21 - or the age of ter­ designations. If you want mination if the state where your grandchildren to re­ they live allows for the as­ ceive proceeds from vari­ sets to be held until a later ous accounts, such as your age, they will control the 401 (k), IRA and life insur­ assets, and they may not ance, you may need to up­ want to use the money as date the beneficiary desig­ you had envisioned, such nations, which can even su­ as for college. (Also, tax is­ persede the instructions on sues for custodial accounts your will. Keep in mind that can be complicated, so, be­ if you have grandchildren fore opening an UGMA or with special needs, you may UTMA, you’ll want to con­ want to designate a supple­ mental needs trust for your sult with your tax advisor.) • Consider gifts to older grandchild as the beneficia­ grandchildren. If you have ry instead of naming your older grandchildren, you grandchild directly. Again, might want to help them out contact your legal advisor if they’re saving for a down for more information. These aren’t the only payment on a home, or are between jobs, or perhaps are steps you can take to help even having children of their your grandchildren, but own. You can give $15,000 they should give you some per year, per individual, options to consider. The without having to file a world is an expensive place, gift tax return. Your spouse and any assistance you can can also give $15,000 per provide to your beloved year to the same individual, grandkids can make a big again without triggering the difference in their lives. need for a gift tax return. This article was written • Review your will. If you’ve already created your by Edward Jones for use by last will and testament, you your local Edward Jones may want to review it upon Financial Advisor the arrival of grandchildren. Edward Jones, Member You can include specific in­ structions, such as requiring SIPC your grandchildren to turn a Edward Jones, its em­ specific age before they can receive their inheritance. ployees and financial advi­ You could also codify the sors are not estate planners same requirements through and cannot provide tax or the use of a living trust. legal advice. You should Contact your legal advisor consult your estate-plan­ to determine if such a trust ning attorney or qualified is appropriate for your situ­ tax advisor regarding your situation. ation. • Update beneficiary Ant: Home, sweet pile of dirt Dr. Universe: Why do ants build mounds? Isabelle, 4, Eagan, Minn. Dear Isabelle, Ants build mounds in all shapes and sizes. Beneath those piles of dirt, ants are building their underground homes. That’s what I learned from my friend Rob Clark, an entomologist who studies bugs on plants. His job is to figure out if bugs make a plant sick or help it grow. He told me ants are one of the most diverse insect families. Scientists know about nearly 13,000 species — and each ant species makes a different kind of nest. Carpenter ants might make their nests in dead wood. Acorn ants make their nests in small twigs and acorns. Then there are ants that create massive underground mazes that are like cities just for ants. Ants are pretty good at digging under­ ground tunnels with their little jaw-like mouthparts, too. “The workers use their mandible to carry the dirt and make space for the queen ant and the larvae,” Clark said. The larvae are their babies who will grow into workers. Some ants, like harvester ants, will dig nests up to 10 feet deep. While some ants make hills with the dirt they dig out, other ants make mounds they’ll actually live inside. Thatch ants can make mounds that are up to four feet tall. The ants move around a lot of soil and bits of plants to shape their home. They like to build the mounds in a sunny spot, Clark said. Ants don’t like the cold. The babies need a warm environment, and so do the workers. Clark told me he actually saw one of these mounds while out in the field and thinking about your question. There were a lot of busy ants crawling around the outside and the inside of the mound. It turns out, almost all ant nests start out with a young queen who has never had a colony before. The queen excavates a small hole in the ground and picks up the soil with her man­ dibles. She will lay a few eggs and the ants that hatch will become workers. “As she lays more eggs and more work­ ers grow up, they have to expand the size of their house,” Clark said. While ants can take care of the house, they also can help with jobs like farming aphids, another little insect. Aphids have sugary poop, called honey dew, that comes from the sap they eat. Ants eat honey dew and protect the aphids from other predators, like a shepherd tending to a flock of sheep. It’s all part of something called mutualism, which means two living things helping out each other. Now you know, ants on our planet make different kinds of nests, but they do it for similar reasons. They need to create a safe place for their colony to eat, work, and live. A single colony can contain thousands of ants, and they all help each other sur­ vive. Next time you see an ant hill, think about all the ants that made it and try to picture the whole little world beneath it. HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of Who Jesus Is To The World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy., P.O. Box 8, Hastings. Telephone 269-945­ 9121. Email hastfmc@gmail, com. Website: www.hastings freemethodist.com. Pastor Brian Teed, Student Ministries Director, Emma Miller, Worship Director, Martha Stoetzel. Sunday Morning Worship: Jim and Judy Baurs to celebrate golden wedding anniversary Jim and Judy Baurs will be celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary on September 12, 2020. They were united in marriage on September 12, 1970 in Battle Creek, Michigan. 9am and 10:30 a.m. beginning June 21 until further notice. Due to the current health crisis, our nursery is temporarily closed and we are temporarily suspending all Children's ministries. Our church sanctuary is set up for social distancing. We do not require wearing masks, but do encourage it, especially while walking through the building before and after services. Please keep your family together during the worship service. We are a multi-generational church family and understand that while this could mean outbursts or potty­ breaks, we are not inconvenienced by your little one. In an effort to help you, we are providing weekly activity bags for each child. These bags are to be taken home or disposed of after each use. ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. 269-945-4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip. Mass 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Mass 8 and 11 a.m. Sunday. 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30-8 p.m., Kids 4 Truth (Children Kindergarten-5th Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information. PLEAS ANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 10 a.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel-chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 765, (comer of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton. MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11:30am, Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 to 7:30 pm. CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616-690-8609. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Hum 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 Kelsey Nicole Murphy, Caledonia and Mick Andrew VanVossen, Caledonia Joel Joseph Quick, Delton and Nora Ashleigh Sheffer, Delton Alexandra Taylor Houtman, Wayland and Joshua James Postma, Wayland Jodi Beth Aukerman, Hastings and Phillip Lynn Sinclair, Battle Creek Eric James Machim, Middleville and Allyson Marie McNutt, Middleville Mallory Kay Teunissen, Wayland and Mason Christian Riemersma, Wayland David Arthur Orszula, Lake Odessa and Greta Ann McKinney, Lansing Lindsey Noelle Fisher, Delton and Aaron Kinnear Rice, Delton Jarrod David Soles, Hickory Comers and Sheryl Ann Wilber, Hickory Comers Marie Margarete Gutgsell, Hastings and Charles Andrew Main, Hastings Brianne Arlene Hornback, Thornton, IL and David Terrell Nettles, Thornton, IL Maxwell James Taylor Walcott, Augusta and Samantha Mary Behan, Augusta Danielle Lee Nay, Nashville and Joseph Edward Spenneberg, Nashville Megan Elizabeth Pepper, Middleville and JOnathan Brett Hudson, Malibu, CA Kaitlyn Elizabeth Bancroft, Hastings and Deven Scott Walkington, Portland Michele Kellems Jayakar, Battle Creek and Jeffrey Lee Sutherland, Dowling Dr. Universe GET ALL Till? HIE BIFII7C JHEW3 OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University’s resident scientist and writer at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu or visit her website, askdruniverse.com. Call 269-945-9554 for more information. Fiberglass Products 1699W.M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 AWWCTfW 80(^4!^ 1301W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 TOWNSHIP OF CARLTON BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENT PUBLIC HEARING FOR MIDDLE LAKE WEED CONTROL TO: The residents and property owners bordering the foregoing lake and all other interested persons. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that Carlton Township Board has scheduled a public hearing for an aquatic weed control project for Middle Lake within the Township, on the estimated costs of such improvement and on the special assessment district proposed to be created within which the costs of such improvement is proposed to be collected. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the aforesaid special assessment district is more particularly described as follows: Approximately 104 properties that front on Leach Lake A complete list of parcel numbers is available at the Township Hall PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the estimated costs for a lake man­ agement program for the control of weeds and/or algae in Middle Lake for the 2021 through 2023 seasons is in the approximate amount of $105,000.00 or $35,000.00 per year and are on file with the Township Clerk for public examina­ tion and will be available at the scheduled public hearing. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Board has tentatively declared its intent to make the foregoing improvements and to create the afore-described special assessment district for the collection of the costs there­ of and has tentatively found the foregoing to be reasonable and proper. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the public hearing on the foregoing improvements, estimated costs and the special assessment district within which such costs are to be collected, will be held at the Carlton Township Hall, 85 Welcome Road, within the township on Monday, September 14, 2020, com­ mencing at 7 p.m. At the hearing the Board will consider any written objections to any of the foregoing matters filed with the Board at or before the hearing as well as any revisions, corrections, amendments or changes to the plans, esti­ mates or special assessment district that may be raised at such hearing. The Township Board reserves the right to revise, correct, amend or change the plans, estimates of costs or special assessment district at or following said pub­ lic hearing. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that if written objections to the improve­ ment are filed with the Township Board at or before the aforesaid public hearing, signed by record owners of land constituting more than 20% of the total frontage upon the lake proposed to be improved, then the Township Board may not pro­ ceed with the project unless petitions in support of the project, signed by record owners of more than 50% of such frontage are filed with the Township. Such objections may be filed with the Township Clerk at the foregoing address. Please take further notice that if the Township Board determines to proceed with the project, it will cause a special assessment roll to be prepared for the recov­ ery of the costs thereof and another hearing will be held preceded by notice to record owners of property proposed to be specially assessed and by publication in the Reminder, to hear public comments concerning the proposed special assessments. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that Carlton Township will provide neces­ sary and reasonable auxiliary aids and services at the hearing to individuals with disabilities upon reasonable notice to the Carlton Township Clerk of the need for the same. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the office of the Township Clerk in writing or by calling the undersigned Clerk at least five days prior to the hearing. All interested persons are invited to be present at the aforesaid time and place, in person or by representative, and to submit comments concerning the foregoing. CARLTON TOWNSHIP Amanda Brown, Clerk 85 Welcome Road, Hastings, Ml 49058 269-945-5990 �Page 8 — Thursday, September 10, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Schools receive thousands in state aid - if they qualify Taylor Owens Staff Writer Delton Kellogg Schools is set to receive $71,806 in state emergency aid funding, while Maple Valley Schools will receive $61,845. The money comes from the Governor’s Education Emergency Relief Fund, which will be distributed to school districts which have more than 50 percent of their students who qualify for free and reduced lunch. The funds can be used for remote learning, student mental health, intervention, curriculum, pro­ Joseph Richard Black, 55, of Hastings, was convicted of operating a vehicle in Middleville May 8, his 55th birthday, while he was intoxicated. He also was found guilty of being a third-time offender, with prior con­ victions for operating a vehicle under the influence of liquor Jan. 21,1992, in Livingston County; and Aug. 22, 2017, in Hastings. He was sentenced by Judge Michael Schipper to serve 32 days in jail, with credit for two days served, and pay $458 in fines and costs. Black was placed on probation for 24 months and ordered to enter and successfully complete the Sobriety Court program, which involves a fee of $40 a month. He will pay a supervision fee of $30 a month or $60 a month for electronic monitoring. Sabrina Dawn Elwen, 32, of Hastings, was convicted of forgery, assaulting a police officer and escaping lawful custody in Hastings Township Feb. 9. She was charged with falsely making, altering, forging or coun­ terfeiting a check for $120; resisting or obstructing a state police trooper in the per­ formance of his duty, and breaking or escap­ ing from lawful custody while she was being arrested on a probation violation warrant. She was sentenced by Judge Schipper to 40 days in jail, with credit for 40 days served, and ordered to pay $484 in fines and costs. Elwen was placed on probation for 24 months and ordered to pay a supervision fee of $30 a month or $60 a month for electronic monitor­ ing. A charge of uttering and publishing was dismissed. Sheri Lynn Gray, 61, of Battle Creek, was convicted of two counts of attempting to bribe or intimidate a witness to discourage testify­ ing or giving information at an official pro­ ceeding, a high court misdemeanor, in Hastings between Feb. 3 and Feb. 17. She was sentenced by Judge Schipper to five days in jail, with credit for one day served, and ordered to pay $526 in fines and costs. She was placed on probation for 12 months, with a supervision fee of $30, or $60 a month for electronic monitoring. Two felony charges of bribing, intimidating or interfering in a crimi­ nal case by threatening, intimidating or dis­ couraging an individual from attending and/or testifying and two felony charges of using a computer to interfere with or intimidate a witness were dismissed. Allen James Grenier, 26, of Grand Rapids, was convicted of possession of less than 25 grams of a controlled substance, cocaine, in Yankee Springs Township Jan. 15. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to one day in jail, with credit for one day served, and ordered to pay $498 in fines and costs. His driver’s license was suspended for 30 days and restricted for 150 days. He was placed on probation for 24 months and is required to pay the monthly supervision fee. In a second concurrent sentence, Grenier was convicted of possession of a controlled substance, cocaine, in Hastings Feb. 4. He was sentenced by Schipper to serve one day in jail, with credit for one day served, and ordered to pay $558 in fines and costs. His driver’s license was suspended for 60 days fessional development and health concerns. “Any additional funding sources we can get is a big help,” Delton Kellogg Financial Director Andrew Nuremberg said. The district has yet to determine what the funds will be used for, since final details on how the money can allocated, and how it will be disbursed, have yet to be announced. Maple Valley Finance Director Darryl Sydloski said the district may use the money to reimburse the budget for technology expenses. Maple Valley has had to spend and restricted for 305 days. The supervision fee for his 24-month probation must be paid. A charge of possessing a controlled substance, methamphetamine/Ecstasy, as a second-time offender was dismissed. David William Harvey-Boze, 35, of Delton, was convicted of unlawful use of a motor vehicle belonging to another, a twoyear misdemeanor, in Prairieville Township, March 21. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to 12 months of probation and $498 in fines and costs. He was ordered to pay a supervision free during his probation of $30 a month or $60 a month for electronic monitor­ ing. A count of unlawfully driving away a motor vehicle, a five-year felony, was dis­ missed. Jennifer Marie Hoyt, 33, of Middleville, was convicted of operating a vehicle on Cherry Valley/Bass Road in Thornapple Township while she was intoxicated June 21. She was sentenced by Judge Schipper to 32 days in jail, with credit for two days served, and ordered to pay $458 in fines and costs. She was placed on probation for 24 months and required to successfully complete the county Sobriety Court program, with a spe­ cialty court fee of $40 a month, along with the probation supervision fee of $30 a month or $60 a month for electronic monitoring. Heather Renee Kill, 41, of Kalamazoo, was convicted of being a disorderly person and sentenced by Judge Schipper to 12 months of probation and $275 in fines and costs. A charge of failing to pay child support was dismissed. She was ordered to pay a probation oversight fee of $100. Ted Thomas Knuppenburg, 33, of Hastings, pleaded no contest to operating a vehicle while intoxicated. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to two days in jail, with credit for one day served, and ordered to pay $500 in fines and costs. He was placed on 30 days of probation during which he is not required to report, but, if assessments are not paid within 30 days, he will be required to report. Two other charges involving operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated were dis­ missed. Brittanie Marie Price, 26, of Middleville, was convicted of operating a vehicle on Grand Rapids Street in Middleville Feb. 23, while she was intoxicated as a third-time offender. She was sentenced by Judge Schipper to two days in jail, with credit for two days served, placed on probation for 60 months and ordered to pay $458 in fines and costs. She was ordered to enter and success­ fully complete the Barry County Adult Drug Court program, with a specialty court fee of $40 a month, and placed on tether, with release only for work, probation and counsel­ ing. Her probation supervision fee is $30 a month or $60 a month for electronic monitor­ ing. Two charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated as a third-time offender and oper­ ating a vehicle while her license was suspend­ ed were dismissed. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. Help Wanted Business Services BOOKKEEPER- LOCAL CPA firm is seeking a highly BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White motivated individual with three - five years accounting/ payroll experience. Respon­ sibilities include preparing financial statements, bank reconciliations, payroll taxes and payroll processing. Must be a team player and possess strong accounting and com­ munication skills. Knowl­ edge of Creative Solutions Accounting, QuickBooks and Microsoft Office helpful. Competitive salary and ben­ efits package. Send resume" and salary requirements to: ksheldon@wfscpas.com or fax 269-945-4890. Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements, power washing. 269-320-3890. For Sale CARRON SPORT AIR Hockey Table. $300.00 OBO. Phone 269-908-1654. KASSON 10FT OAK Pool Table, excellent condition. $1,000.00 or OBO. 269-908­ 1654 $47,000 to purchase new Chromebooks, $10,000 for flash drives and $27,000 for online curriculum, in addition to monthly fees for mobile hotspots. Delton Kellogg has 54 percent of students who qualify for free and reduced lunch, while 62 percent of Maple Valley students qualify. Other Barry County districts, such as Thomapple Kellogg, which has 34 percent of students registered for free and reduced lunch, do not qualify to receive the funding. “Lakewood Public School’s rate for last school year was 42 percent, and therefore we will not receive additional funding,” Lakewood Superintendent Steven Skalka said. “Though I understand the need in higher poverty districts, every district experiences poverty and every district has the need for additional funds to meet the additional health, safety, and technology needs resulting from operating school in a COVID-19 environ­ ment.” “A baseline amount should have been pro­ vided to every school district and additional funding could have been added to that figure based on the size of a district’s economically disadvantaged population,” he added. “We won’t receive any GEER dollars,” Hastings Area Schools Superintendent Dan Remenap said. “We are 47 percent, and you need to be a minimum of 50 percent, which is a real bummer for us.” Remenap also said he believes Hastings may have more than 50 percent of students who would qualify for free and reduced lunch, but they aren’t all self-reporting. Administrators say students may feel a stig­ ma about self-reporting their family income levels. The percentage of students at Maple Valley who turn in their paperwork for free and reduced lunch decreases from the elementary, to middle school to the junior and senior high school. Sydloski pointed out those students come from the same families and the same geo­ graphic areas, but likely become more self-conscious about free and reduced lunch as they grow older. At this point, school districts are still wait­ ing on the state to finalize its budget for 2020­ 2021, which will tell districts how much funding they will receive for the current school year. The deadline for the budget to be done is Oct. 1. Hastings Township prepares for absentee voting in Nov. 3 election Sophie Bates Staff Writer The Hastings Charter Township Board Tuesday unanimously passed a resolution to establish an absentee voter counting board for the November election. This will be the first time an AVCB has been used in the township. AVCBs permit absent voter ballots to be processed and counted on Election Day sepa­ rately from the township hall, where in-per­ son polling will be underway. The goal of an absentee voter counting board is to save time and streamline efficiency. Township Clerk Anita Mennell Tuesday said efficiency in the upcoming election is important because she is seeing an increase in the number of people voting by mail due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. She said she already has received more than 450 absent voter ballots for this election and expects to receive more than 500. In previous years, the township received about 200 absent voter applications. Half the cost of equipment and software needed to establish the AVCB is covered by a federal grant, leaving the township to pay approximately $2,800. On Election Day, the AVCB will have two primary purposes: processing and counting absent voter ballots. Processing absent voter ballots allows the board to verify the legality of the ballots by checking the ballot signature against the vot­ er’s absent voter ballot application signature. Also, processing ballots allows the AVCB to confirm absentee voters did not also cast bal­ lots in person. The AVCB then counts absent voter ballots by removing them from their secrecy enve­ lopes and using a tabulator to record the infor­ mation. Once all ballots are recorded, the total number of ballots tabulated is compared to the total number of ballots delivered to the AVCB for processing to ensure all votes are counted. Absent voter ballots are scheduled to be sent out near the end of September, according to Mennell. Polls for the Nov. 3 election will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the township hall, 885 River Road, Hastings. In other business, the board assigned trust­ ees Timothy McNally and William Wetzel to the election commission and unanimously approved the signing of a millage request form, which sets the millage rate for this win­ ter’s property tax bills at 0.7126 mills for township necessities and 1.15529 for the library. Nashville man flees after assault A 46-year-old woman said she was assaulted at her residence in the 100 block of Main Street in Nashville at 9:23 p.m. Aug. 27. A 22-year-old Nashville man, with whom she said she had an on-and-off relationship, went to her home. She said multiple police officers have warned the man not to go back to the house, after previous incidents, but she said she feels bad for him, since he has a drug problem. She said she heard him talking on the phone in attempt to buy drugs. She confronted him about it, and told him to leave. She said he grabbed her by the throat and pushed her against the wall. She hit him the face, and he walked out of the house barefoot. Police were unable to locate him, and the case remains open. Driver leaves accident, vehicle burns Officers responded to a crash in the 9000 block of Norris Road in Orangeville Township at 9:36 a.m. Aug. 20. A car had struck a tree, and when police arrived, firefighters were trying to put out a fire that had fully engulfed the vehicle. The license plate was registered to a 40-year-old Plainwell man. A witness reported seeing the driver running from the vehicle immediately after the crash. When the witness called for the driver to stop, he yelled back “Sorry, I can’t,” and ran into the woods. Barry County Central Dispatch then notified officers they had received a call from a 42-year-old Richland man, who said he had the suspect on the ground, with his pistol at the ready, in the 8000 block of Miller Road. Officers arrived and arrested the driver. He had a valid license, and did not have any warrants, but said he had been in prison for eight years and panicked after the accident. He ran until he saw the Richland man in a truck. He told the man he needed help getting out of the area, and asked him not to call the police. The Richland man told him to hop in the back, and while he drove, he called the police. Eventually the Richland man stopped, grabbed his pistol, and made the suspect get on the ground. The suspect did not have any indications of intoxication, but admitted to smoking meth the day before. He was cited for failing to report a crash. The investigation is ongoing. Father reports son, 17, drinking and driving A 38-year-old Freeport man reported his 17-year-old son for drinking and driving at 11:08 p.m. Aug. 29. He said his son drove himself home from Caledonia, after initially drinking at a party in Orangeville Township. He tried to find the party by taking his son with him to Orangeville, but his son said he couldn’t remember where the party was. The man called the police and asked their help to find the party, and stop other minors from drinking. After an officer met with the father and son in Orangeville Township, the officer told the father his son would need to be checked out. The father said he did not want his son to get in trouble, but he understood. The son had a 0.131 blood alcohol content and was arrested. Police were unable to locate the party. Phone, cash, pills stolen from vehicles A 26-year-old man called police at 9:55 p.m. Sept. 5 to report his cellphone, headphones and $200 in cash were stolen from his vehicle in the 1000 block of Mary Drive in Yankee Springs Township. The man said he got up for work that morning and noticed the items were missing. He told his girlfriend, also 26, who discovered her headphones and Adderall were missing from her vehicle. The man said his neighbor had camera footage of two men walking down the road the previous night. The case remains under investigation. Intoxicated driver causes injuries in head-on collision A 34-year-old Dorr man was arrested after causing a three-vehicle crash on North M-37, south of 108th Street, Thomapple Township at 10:13 p.m. Sept. 4. Witnesses said the man had been driving erratically before he crossed the center line and collided with a vehicle driven by a 29-year-old Nashville woman. A vehicle behind her, driven by a 63-year-old Kentwood man, collided with her vehicle. The woman was taken to an area hospital with minor injuries. The suspect had a 0.19 BAC, and did not have a license. Vehicles collide in McDonald’s drive-through Police were called to the Patterson Road McDonald’s in Yankee Springs Township after a 38-year-old Wayland woman said a man tried to cut in line and caused a collision in the drive-through at 10:20 p.m. Sept. 7. After the collision, the woman said the man, 81, of Grand Rapids, got out of his truck and kicked her car, causing a dent. She backed out of the line and sat in the parking lot. The man continued in line, ordered and received his food, then left. An officer obtained security footage of the incident, which showed the man’s truck hitting the woman’s vehicle. The officer met the man, who insisted the woman hit his vehicle, even after he was shown the video. He said he would pay for the damage from kicking her car, but not from the collision. He said she was driving like “a maniac.” Information has been forwarded to the prosecutor’s office. Woman reports ex-boyfriend stole puppy A 26-year-old Hastings woman called police at 9:08 p.m. Aug. 31 to report her ex-boy­ friend broke into her home in the 2000 block of Onyx Court in Rutland Charter Township. The woman said she had been in jail the previous night, and when she got home that morning, she noticed her pit bull puppy was gone. Several Bluetooth speakers and a large amount of children’s’ clothing, worth around $648, also was missing. The woman said her neighbor had seen her ex-boyfriend, 31, of Vermontville, on the porch that morning, with the puppy. An officer called the former boyfriend, who denied taking anything from the house. The case remains under investigation. $23K in farm equipment stolen from barn A 53-year-old Richland man reported $23,000 in farm equipment stolen from a storage building in the 6000 block of Cloverdale Road in Maple Grove Township, Aug. 24. The man said the theft must have occurred between Aug. 10 and 24. The door lock had been cut, and several large pieces of equipment were taken from multiple trailers inside. The case remains under investigation. .... -.................-......................... -...............----.... -----............ --......................... '........................ •.......................................... ■ NOTICE TO CREDITORS Trust Estate of Norman L. Ward and Kay Harlene Ward Revocable Living Trust, dated June 19, 2005. Norman L. Ward: date of birth 03/22/1925. Kay Harlene Ward: date of birth 08/23/1930. TO ALL CREDITORS: The Co-Grantors of the Trust lived at 1187 Swan Cove Drive, Battle Creek, Ml 49017. Norman L. Ward died on June 16, 2020. Kay Harlene Ward died on 07/08/2017. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the decedents, the above trust and trustee will be forever barred unless presented to Larry Ward, Successor Trustee of the Trust at 1391 Swan Cove Drive, Battle Creek, Ml 49017, within four months of the date of publication of this notice. Date: September 2, 2020 Golden Avenue Law Offices Patrick S. Hirzel P23884 835 Golden Avenue Battle Creek, Michigan 49014 269-963-8484 Trustee Larry Ward 1391 Swan Lake Cove Drive Battle Creek, Mi 49017 269-968-1504 147008 .... .........-........... ............ *.......... * ................... , STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENT’S ESTATE FILE NO. 20-28596-DE Estate of Paul Charles Piotrowski. Date of birth: 09/07/1939. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Paul Charles Piotrowski, died 08/06/2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Anthony Piotrowski, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 09/03/2020 Jackie Baker Sturgis P76955 137 West State Street Hastings, Ml 49058 269-945-3999 Anthony Piotrowski 5557 Grange Road Middleville, Ml 49333 616-299-7286 147118 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 10, 2020 — Page 9 fl look back at the stories and columns on local history In the flastlnos Banner TURNING BflGK THE PAGES < Extended camping trip deemed ‘ideal method’ for vacationing “Touring the country in this way is growing constantly in favor,” Banner editors wrote in 1922 in an introduction to the Keller family’s trip to Wyoming and back. The group in the foreground of this 1923 photo appears to be from Terre Haute, Ind. Many of the tents pictured here at Mammoth Hot Springs Camp in Yellowstone National Park were designed to attach to vehicles. (Library of Congress photo) This column in August featured letters from Dick Cook, 21, telling of a trip he and buddy Fred “Ted” E. Hill Jr., 17, took in the summer of 1922. Cook had written the letters to his parents. His dad was* the co-owner of the1 Banner and shared the letters with readers in August and September 1922. Reading about the voyages of others evidently was popular in the 1920s. One Banner issue that fall included not only a letter from young Cook, but also a recap of a trip to Yellowstone by a Hastings family. Other September issues included a summary of a local woman’s visit to Boston, and a former teacher’s impressions of Rome. The extended camping trip out West by the Keller family was recounted in the Sept. 6, 1922, Banner. Tells of Western Tourists’ Camps Mrs. Guy Keller writes of this feature of Yellowstone trip One at Denver a marvel of completeness Dr. and Mrs. Guy C. Keller and their daughter and son, Mae and Krantz [ages 16 and 15, respectively], returned recently from a motor trip to Yellowstone Park that extended over seven weeks as they camped out en route both coming and going. They went with a most complete tourist’s equipment for compactness and comfort that could be devised and are enthusiastic over this way of seeing America. Dr. Keller, like most physicians, works hard and puts in full hours every day in the year when on duty and believes this is the ideal method for a doctor’s vacation, it being the second year they have successfully tried out the plan. Touring the country in this way is growing constantly in favor. The Banner thought it would be of more interest to have Mrs. Keller [Emmy Matilda Sofia Krantz] give an account of the Tourists’ Camps they encountered which are such a feature of every part of the west, and at our request, she has prepared the article below, which we know will be enjoyed by many and may prove an incentive to others to follow their example and go “a-gypsy-ing by auto.” When you are tired of work and can’t stir up ambition to play and your mouth turns down at the comers, when small tasks seem large, and you fret and fuss and wonder why folks are so grouchy; when the food is too salty, or it may be too sweet and the bread Sweden native Emma (Krantz) Keller described the beauty of the snow-capped Grand Teton Mountains when she wrote of her family’s extended camping trip out West in 1922. The Keller family of Hastings “went with a most complete tourist’s equipment for compactness and comfort that could be devised and are enthusiastic over this way of seeing America” on their seven-week summer camping trip in 1922. The automobile completely changed travel in the 1920s. “Tourist camps” sprung up across the country, including the Lake Camp in Yellowstone, pictured here. (Library of Congress photo) dreadfully sour; I know what ails you, at least what ailed me - I needed to join the army of khaki-clad tourists. Yes, actually “gpy it” as it is sometimes termed. There is nothing that will bring the color (and blisters) to your skin like honest-togoodness sunshine, especially the kind out west, when it is well-seasoned with a good stiff breeze. In a few days, however, you become the proud possessor of a skin that is either so dark or speckled that it is perfectly sun and wind-proof. Don’t misunderstand, this is after the blistering, swelling and shedding period. After you have arrived at this blissful stage, you become indifferent to mirrors and powder puffs, and a great deal of time is spent (if you happen to be the cook) in piling the calories high enough that the inevitable question “Is that all there is?” may not be asked too often. When I come to think about it, I was not requested to tell about personal appearances nor inside feelings, but about camp grounds. It would take too much space to describe very many in detail, so [I] will mention only a few that stand out prominently in my memory. Most every town west of Chicago, regardless of size, has a camp ground. In most instances, the most pleasant part of town is given over for this purpose, sometimes the fair grounds and many times some city park of which I shall speak presently. A caretaker is usually in charge of the camp. He attends to the registration and makes it a business to make the tourists comfortable. One of the chief topjcs of conversation between tourists at camp is to post each-other about desirable camps, and few were blacklisted, and some avoided if possible. I might mention here what tourists look for and consider a good campground. The first requisite is good water and shade, some kind of shelter in case of storms, especially [a place] where they can cook, lights, sanitary toilets, a shower bath, [and a] swimming pool or lake is very much appreciated. Many camps have a little grocery store on the grounds, also a gas filing station. Outside cook ovens, tables and benches are found at most camp grounds. Many places provide an elaborate outfit where tourists can do their own laundry work. These are very convenient and well patronized. Usually everything is free. It reminds you of the fact that all men are brothers and do care for each other, and you pass with a smile on your face and a desire to pass the good thing along. Our first camp ground after leaving Chicago was Muscatine, Iowa. It was in the city park and contained swimming pool, tennis court, shade, etc., in fact everything for comfort. Bethany, Mo., had fine equipment, even a hose for washing cars. We had occasion to use it since our car had done the merry-go-round stunt that day. I mentioned shade as desirable. This was usually found, providing trees happened to grow in that particular locality. As we approached Cheyenne, we began to speculate as to where the shade [would be] coming from since not a tree was in sight. By following signs “one mile to tourist camp,” we actually found a nice grove of cottonwood trees, a well-equipped camp ground, and a lake where we could, and did, dip and refresh ourselves. Just an hour before our arrival, a heavy windstorm had blown all the tents down, and people were hunting around for dishes, etc. that had been scattered. A windstorm seems to come altogether unannounced in that part of the country. The rest room [perhaps a lounge of some sort] here was equipped with chairs, reading table and reading matter. An open fire place gave it a very “homey” appearance. The race track and fair grounds adjoined us here, and “Texas Babe,” the cowgirl whom we saw later at Bozeman Roundup, Montana, was at that time busy with her horses in preparing for Cheyenne Roundup. Cody and Basin, both in Wyoming, had excellent grounds. Thermopolis, Wyoming, appealed to us, not so much on account of good camp, as the exhilarating bath we enjoyed here. The greatest thermal phenomena of Wyoming are the Hot Springs here where there is enough boiling water to float a battleship every day in the year. There is a romantic history connected with the acquiring of these springs by the white man. Washakie, chief of the Shoshones, when he deeded the springs, insisted that a provision should be included to guarantee that as long as the boiling water should come out of the ground, poor people should be permitted to enjoy its benefits without cost. Elaborate sanitariums and hospitals are located here but there also are free baths open to the public. [Hot Springs State Park in 2020 still has a free public bath house for therapeutic bathing.] A great many claimed to be benefitted by drinking the mineral waters and the daily hot bath. Large caravans of Indians with their covered wagons made this their goal. The daily flow of these springs is 18.6 million gallons. The temperature is constant at 135 degrees, so our bath was already hot when we arrived. The most elaborate camp we visited in the seven weeks was the Free Municipal Auto Camp in Denver. It cost $250,000 and is located at Overland Park, just 14 minutes’ ride from the heart of that beautiful city. It contains 160 acres and is operated by the city and county of Denver. The visitor registers, is assigned a lot and block number, and is furnished with a camp site, water, fuel, mail and package delivery, all free. There also are free baths, laundry, reading, writing and rest rooms and dance hall. The park is policed and lighted. A grocery store, restaurant and filling station are maintained where moderate prices prevail. The park contains a one-mile track and is the official aeroplane landing place in Denver. Eleven hundred machines registered the day we arrived. More [than 1,100] cars were there, since some stayed the two weeks that they could stay without cost. After that, as Tourist parks a ‘20s development The automobile provided a new way for American families to travel in the early 1920s. Driving to various destinations simply for pleasure made one a “tourist.” Tourist parks, or campgrounds, (two words in 1922) and tourist villages (mom-and-pop-type resorts with several small buildings for lodging) began to spring up across the country. Campgrounds in some cities in Michigan, including Marquette and Munising, still retain their Tourist park’ names. In Hastings, the former fairgrounds, at the Kmart Plaza, was once a tourist park and allowed overnight camping for travelers. Travelers choosing to spend a night or two in the city seemed to be well-received. “City’s tourist camp liberally patronized,” the Aug. 16, 1922, Banner declared. “Campers are loud in their praises of the conveniences provided by our city. “It will please many people to know that the automobile tourists camp on the fair grounds of this city is being liberally patronized, and this city’s guests are loud in their praises of the many conveniences maintained by this city for their convenience and comfort.” Camping at Tyden Park was in the plans in the late 1930s, after the Emil Tyden and the International Seal and Lock Company sold the land to the city for $1 in 1938. Work was underway on a park that would include the tourist camp, a swimming pool and a separate entrance/exit near the camping area on the southwest part of the park onto West Mill Street. The Oct. 5, 1939, Banner charge of 25 cents a day was made. We regretted to leave “Tent City.” We were cautioned by other tourists to carry plenty of food and water when traveling through Wyoming. We found that plan very good since we did travel 50 miles or more without seeing either trees, water or towns. The only thing to break the monotony of space was telephone poles, sage brush, then more sage brush and prairie dogs. Our little town would have quite a dignified place on the map of that state. The population of all Wyoming is only 194,000. Wonderful crops grew where irrigation was used. The Yellowstone Park has the most natural assets for a camp ground. Though it contains over 3,000 square miles, desirable camping can be found almost anywhere if you happen to have a full camp outfit. There are four principal camp sites, which it is hoped may be equipped with some conveniences in the near future, such as light and proper sanitation, which are conspicuous for their absence. The cool night air, laden with the odor of pines, must be breathed; it cannot be described. The view from Lake Camp overlooking the Yellowstone Lake with towering snow-capped Teton Mountains in the background makes a beautiful picture. The Old Faithful Camp has a community house where tourists may gather every evening for an hour of singing and entertainment followed by an hour’s dancing. A very weird feeling is experienced as Old Faithful thunders forth with great regularity, every 65 minutes all night long. Every evening at 10 o’clock or thereabout, a large spot light is turned on this geyser and she spouts forth her usuaL200 feet in the air and continues about five minutes. The Canyon Junction Camp was inspected nightly by bears who always seemed able to find butter, bacon, sugar, etc. The only way to be sure they would not get [food] was to tie it to a tree that was too small to climb and too tall to reach. The fourth camp of the park was at Mammoth Hot Springs. This was really the least desirable, though the view of the hot springs in this park was beautiful. The forest rangers made it altogether safe anywhere in the park. They were courteous at all times. We enjoyed the true hospitality of the west. Our trip covered a dozen states with speedometer registering 4,500 miles. We viewed the majestic snowcapped mountains, some covered with dense forests or flowerbedecked slopes with a most wonderful array of color of every conceivable shade and tint. We viewed with awe and wonder the marvelous works of nature in the form of hot springs, geysers, canyons, lake, caves, glaciers, rivers and waterfalls. We viewed with admiration what man had accomplished by the way of irrigation and making a garden out of a desert. However, we agreed unanimously that no state is as good to live in as Michigan. As to cities, well, Hastings with its fine shade, good water, kind people and friends and campground is surely best of all. Compiled by Kathy Maurer, with special assistance from Diane Hawkins, Hastings Public Library. Sources: Hastings Banner, libryaryofcongress .gov, familysearch .org. Tourist villages, like this one along the Lincoln Highway in Carroll, Iowa, sprung up in the early to mid-1900s across the country. Remnants of such resorts can still be seen in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. In Hastings, the former fairgrounds served as a tourist park, or campground, where travelers could put up a tent and spend the night. (Image courtesy of Lyell Henry collection, Prairie Rivers of Iowa, Lincoln Highway Heritage Byway) reported on progress over the summer and provided a favorable review. “It is well located both for a park for the city and for a tourist camp, and when the work is completed, it will be as fine a park as can be found in any city the size of Hastings and will be a credit both to the donor and to the city and its workmen who are making it a reality.” However, the United States’ entrance in World War II halted work and forever altered some of the plans. Overnight camping may have been allowed at some point, but never to the extent imagined when the park was new. An entrance on the southwest side of the park connects pedestrians and bicyclists to West Mill Street via the Riverwalk Trail, which is open to travelers and residents alike. “Emmy” Keller, who recapped her family’s seven-week camping trip in 1922, was known for her art. This undated photo accompanied a March 31, 1955, Banner article announcing the death of her husband, Dr. Guy C. Keller, two years after the couple had moved to Florida. �Page 10 — Thursday, September 10, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Leagues get on the lanes again Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Court-Side team needed a boost on the scoreboard early Wednesday afternoon after nearly six months away from the lanes. It got it from JoAnne Rice who was rolling in her American flag shirt and black face mask with the word “Blessed” written in gold script on it. Her teammates said was carrying them. Rice earned marks in each of her first five frames, including three strikes, and led her foursome with a 164 in game one of the first Wednesday P.M. League competition of the new bowling season at Hastings Bowl. “I’m a little under,” said Rice’s teammate kim Fowler, “but that is okay. When you’re establishing an average you don’t want to be too far up.” There are few good ways to keep bowling skills sharp when the lanes are closed, but now they’re open. Executive Orders 2020­ 176 and 2020-175, signed by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer last Thursday (Sept. 3), allowed bowling alleys, gyms, pools, skating rinks and the like to reopen for the first time since March. Bowling alleys are open for league and organized play, but not walk-in open bowling yet. Hastings Bowl hosted its first two leagues on Tuesday, the first day allowed by the new orders, according to Hastings Bowl owner Dean Lambert. “It’s great,” Court-Side team member Thelma Christopher said of getting back to bowling. “It is better than looking at four walls all day.” Elliston got a text message last week saying the bowling leagues would be starting up again, but she wasn’t sure who it was that provided her with that message. She spread the word to one teammate and the message kept going. Christopher, Rice, Lois Elliston and Kim Fowler have been playing together in leagues at Hastings Bowl “forever” they said. Wednesday was the first time they’ve had to wear face coverings while bowling though. Face coverings are required inside the establishment, other than when seated at a table eating and drinking. The bar/restaurant area is currently closed to customers at Hastings Bowl, but there will be a wait staff to deliver orders to tables in the bowling alley. Each table has a bar code affixed to it which bowlers can scan with their phone to look at the menu. Those unable to wear a mask during league play due to a medical issue must have a signed doctor’s note to participate without a mask, and Lambert said the bowling alley will keep copies of those notes on file should it Kim Fowler celebrates a spare late in the first game of the Wednesday P.M. League season at Hastings Bowl Wednesday afternoon. Bowling centers across the state are now able to open for league and organized play, with everyone in the building required to wear a mask. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Thelma Christopher sets up for a shot during the first game of the Wednesday P.M. League season Wednesday afternoon at Hastings Bowl. The league started up on schedule after Executive Order 2020-176 allowed for bowling alleys across the state of Michigan to open up for league and organized play this week. (Photo by Brett Bremer) need them to be verified at some point. There were five teams competing in the first Wednesday P.M. session. “The second and third week of September we held organizational meetings for all the leagues that bowled last year. We still have three leagues that start next month, and next week we’ll start organizing those,” Lambert said. Those who wish to join a league should call Lambert at 269-945-3184. The 2020-21 league season is getting start­ ed mostly on schedule. Lambert said numbers are a little bit down, but bowlers can still sign up to get in a bowling league - even the ones that have already started rolling. “At this time, we’re not really allowed to have spectators in to watch their family mem­ bers bowl,” Lambert said. “It basically limited to the people bowling. There are two types of bowling we can have. We can have our league bowling and then we can have organized events. Say maybe a work group wanted to come in and bowl. We can allow that.” There aren’t any of those types of orga­ nized events planned yet. “We just got the notifications of what we can do and what we can’t do. We had a bowl­ ing proprietors meeting on Zoom yesterday on ways to handle all the different problems we’re going to come up with, and different proprietors talked about what they’re doing so we can adjust to what is working well and what is not working well.” One of the biggest issues is the use of house balls. Lambert said the alley has special sani­ tizer made to sanitize house balls. That will be a bigger issue should open bowling be allowed sometime in the future. He said that there are very few league bowlers who use house balls, except during the Friday night leagues when about half of the participants choose a ball off the racks. Bowlers who use a house ball can get a glove from the front counter to wear while they hunt for a ball that fits just right, and are instructed to leave balls on the ball returns when they’re done bowling to be sanitized before they’re put back on the racks. Exciting moments for Trojans at first Gold race Brett Bremer Sports Editor Thomapple Kellogg fastest returning run­ ner found himself in a battle with a freshman to remain the Trojans’ fastest guy Tuesday at the first OK Gold Conference jamboree of the season. The TK girls’ team found itself in a battle with the Forest Hills Eastern girls for the top spot in the conference standings - a battle in which the Hawks edged the Trojans by just four points. TK junior Camden Reynolds out-kicked freshman Lucas Van Meter down the final 100 meters of the varsity boys’ race to best his teammate by less than a quarter of a second on the course at South Christian High School. Reynolds placed 24th overall with a time of 18 minutes 55.84 seconds. Van Meter came in 25th at 18:56.07. Nearly all of the runners, both in boys’ and girls’ races, had their masks around their necks as they sprinted through the finish line, in what was a misstep by meet officials as high school sports teams settle into an athletic season currently operating under Executive Order 2020-176. The order, issued last Thursday (Sept. 3), requires all participants in organized sports, other than swimming, in the state of Michigan to wear a face covering. The MHSAA, school districts, many high school athletes and their families are still hoping for some clarification, or an outright change, to those requirements.. High School athletes in tennis, cross coun­ try and golf were not required to wear masks during competition until last week’s new executive order which opened the possibility for high school football, soccer, swimming and volleyball to proceed throughout the state while suddenly requiring masks for all. Van Meter was finishing his last mile Tuesday when he needed some motivation. He saw Reynolds ahead and sped up. Reynolds was happy to see his teammate, but also a bit concerned that his pace should have been faster. Van Meter said he started talking to Reynolds as he ran up behind him. The fresh­ man momentarily pulled in front. “We were just egging each other on,” Reynolds said, “trying to catch up to the Forest Hills Eastern kid ahead of us.” Reynolds may not have had the pace he wanted Tuesday, he was 16 seconds slower than he had been at the Trojan’s first race of the season, but his time was still better than all Thornapple Kellogg junior Camden Reynolds (left) and freshman Levi Van Meter sprint towards the finish line together at the end of Tuesday’s OK Gold Conference jamboree hosted by South Christian High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) but two of his times from the 2019 season. Van Meter picked up his pace a bit Tuesday, finishing about 23 seconds faster than he had at the Harper Creek Optimist Invitational last month. They both did nudge in front of Forest Hills Eastern senior Will Armbruster to shave points off their team total. The host team from Grand Rapids South Christian won the boys’ race at the first jam­ boree of the season with 66 points. Cedar Springs was a close second with 71 points and Forest Hills Eastern third with 78 points. Cedar Springs senior Corey Bowers ran away from the pack in the boys’ race to win in 16:10.20 with Forest Hills Eastern senior Ben Clason second in 16:45.55. Grand Rapids Catholic Central was fourth in the boys’ standings with 117 points, ahead of Ottawa Hills 119, Kenowa Hills 127, TK 147 and Wayland Union 170. Another Trojan duo came in closely togeth­ er with senior Brenna Lutz 30th in 19:15.41, holding off freshman teammate Ethan Bonnema who finished in 19:17.47. TK’s number five scorer was Matthew Smith who placed 37th in 19:36.89. Ottawa Hills had impressive packs at the front of each race, but not the depth to chal­ lenge for a win. There were three Bengals among the first six finishers in the boys’ race and three among the top four in the girls’ race. Forest Hills Eastern won the girls’ race with 66 points. TK scored just 70 points to finish second behind a team that finished fourth at the Division 2 Lower Peninsula State Finals a year ago. “It was fun for me as the race was coming to a close, and the FHE coach said, T think you got us,’ TK girls’ coach Sam Wilkinson said. “I just shrugged my shoulders and raised my hands as if to say, T don’t know, we’ll see.’ The fact that he was nervous about that prospect was a great feeling. I didn’t necessar­ ily expect us to be in the same zip code as them, let alone in the same neighborhood knocking on their door. So, that was fantas­ tic.” Sophomore Lucy VanDemark had the best race of her varsity career so far, setting a new personal record with her ninth-place time of 20:55.99 for TK. She placed in the 20’s at all three of her conference races a year ago and had never finished a race in under 21 minutes. The new PR time is 26.5 seconds faster than her previous best. Junior Jessica Durkee led TK with a sixth­ place time of 20:28.86. Every runner to finish ahead of her was either a Bengal or a Hawk. Ottawa Hills senior Madison Ebright won the race in 19:05.64 and her freshman team­ mate Selma Anderson was second in 19:34.56. The Bengals also had senior Naomi Dykstra fourth in 20:04.01. Thomapple Kellogg junior Ainsley Oliver traverses the course at South Christian High School during the first OK Gold Conference cross country jamboree of the season Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Forest Hills Eastern was led by sophomore Sarah Dixon’s third-place time of 20:02.14 and a fifth-place time of 20:20.21 by sopho­ more Ellory Clason. TK also had sophomore Emelia MacDonald 14th in 21:32.10, sophomore Madison Nagel 20th in 21:55.07, freshman Holly Velting 21st in 21:58.71 and sophomore Lindsey Velting 22nd in 22:07.62. Junior Kendall Snyder wasn’t too far off that trio’s pace, placing 26th in 22:16.70. “I am super pleased and excited about how all of them ran,” coach Wilkinson said. He was thrilled with VanDemark’s race and with happy with Durkee racing with the league leaders. “Holly going under 22 (minutes) and Lindsey right there with her was huge,” Wilkinson added. “After our Harper Creek meet I thought, ‘we’ve got to have more of us under 22 if we’re going to be competitive with stronger teams.’ I didn’t talk times with them, but I talked about different aspects of their race tactics and thought processes while racing. I actually prefer not to focus on times as much as mindset, being competitive, and smart racing. The times will figure themselves out. “Each of the girls did her part, even when they weren’t all necessarily having their best races. They understand what it means to get after it, and they did.” Cedar Springs was a distant third behind the TK girls with 95 points in the girls’ team standings. Ottawa Hills finished with 107 points despite getting just seven from its top three finishers. Grand Rapids Catholic Central’s girls were fourth with 129 points, ahead of South Christian 136, Wayland 147 and Kenowa Hills 164. All of the OK Gold’s runners wore their masks at the start Tuesday, with most slipping them down around their necks, tucking them into their shorts, or just holding them in their hand as the crowd of about 60 runners in each of the two varsity races thinned out. A few made it to the finish with their masks in place over their mouth and nose. Meet officials and spectators had a near 100 percent mask usage rate while the runners wound their way around the baseball, softball, soccer fields and tennis courts. Thomapple Kellogg High School Athletic Director Brian Hammer said that in many early season cross country races, like the Harper Creek Optimist Invitational which the Trojans competed in Aug. 29, many runners proceeded just like they did Tuesday - wear­ ing a mask at the crowded start and then removing the mask as they separated. That was not what he and the other OK Gold ath­ letic directors had planned for Tuesday’s races where masks were to be required by ail partic­ ipants at all times, but athletes were reported­ ly given other information moments before the race. Hammer said Tuesday evening he had already been in contact with the OK Conference about the issue, working to get a message through to the MHSAA and on to MHSAA Officials that it needs to be clearly communicated to everyone at events that all student-athletes must wear a mask “on the field of play.” The MHSAA just announced Tuesday morning that officials won’t have to wear masks at events and that it is not its officials job to enforce mask requirements for players, coaches or spectators. Hammer said his heart dropped when he learned of the mask issue at the cross country race, and that he wished he would have been in attendance to try and prevent the issue. Before getting to the starting line runners were instructed by their schools to wear mask throughout the race, but things changed at the starting line. Reports are that the official in charge of the start was operating under the previous cross country rules. Hammer said he saw golfers do an excel­ lent job of wearing masks when needed off the course when the Trojans’ hosted their TK Invitational at Yankee Springs Golf Course earlier this season and the social distancing and mask usage among students in the high school has been “fantastic” throughout the first few weeks of the school year. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 10, 2020 — Page 11 Tough round better than no round for Saxons at The Legacy Hastings’ Reese Warner chips her ball up towards the green on number eight at The Legacy at Hastings during her team’s tri with Lowell and Greenville Wednesday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Saxons’ Josey Nickels hits her tee shot on number nine at The Legacy at Hastings Wednesday during her team’s tri with Greenville and Lowell. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Sports Editor Hastings senior Reese Warner said she had a few iron shots hook left Wednesday (Sept. 2) and a the greens at The Legacy at Hastings continue to be tough, but she’s still happy to be out swinging. Warner managed one of her best shots of the day though from the tee on number one, her final hole at the tri the Saxons hosted with Lowell and Greenville. She sent a line drive Hastings golfer Valeria Arias taps a putt towards the hole on number seven at The Legacy at Hastings Wednesday afternoon during a tri with Lowell and Greenville. (Photo by Bret Bremer) down the center of the fairway and then finished off a 56 on the front nine. Greenville won the day’s round, shooting a 190. Lowell was second with a score of 208 and Hastings put together a score of 222. “It is a really difficult course,” Hastings head coach Kristen Laubaugh said. “I am pleased they powered through it. They all had some really good shots. They all have things to be proud of. We have some things to work on. Here, these greens are so fast it is just a hard transition to other courses. We have that we have to work on. “I am pleased. They’re working hard and they are having fun, and I think that is import­ ant too.” Girls’ golf was one of the few high school sports able to compete in lower Michigan before last Thursday’s new executive orders allowed for football, volleyball, boys’ soccer and girls’ swimming and diving teams to begin competing. “It has definitely been fun,” Warner said. “It has been fun getting back into it. I am glad we can still do it, for sure, because a lot of other sports can’t. Since this is my last year, I am excited we got to do it,” Hastings senior Rylee Honsowitz, an indi­ vidual state qualifier a year ago, tied for the low round of the day with a 43. The Saxons got a 54 from Josey Nickels and a 69 from Valeria Arias. Greenville was led by Lexy Kapcia who shot a 43 to match Honsowitz at the top of the leaderboard. Greenville’s Serena Schroeder led her team with a 48. The Saxons were scheduled to head to Marshall for the second Interstate-8 Athletic Conference jamboree of the season yesterday (Sept. 9). A jamboree scheduled for last Tuesday (Sept. 1) in Battle Creek was post­ poned due to weather. Local state qualifiers finish first at Lakewood invite Brett Bremer Sports Editor Lakewood senior Nathan Alford is ready to run. Alford broke the 17-nfeiute barrier for the fourth time in his varsity cross country career as the Vikings ran their first 5K race of the season on their home course Wednesday (Sfept. 2). He won the race in 16 minutes 57.4 seconds. His last full-length varsity race was on the course at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn for the Division 2 Lower Peninsula State Finals last November where he placed 65th in 17:01.1. The Lakewood boys’ didn’t manage a team score due to having fewer than five runners in the race. The Lakewood ladies took the cham­ pionship in their competition though, outscor­ ing Hastings 34-39 at the top of the standings. Lakewood opens chase for eighth straight league title Brett Bremer Sports Editor After back-to-back rain shortened rounds, the Lakewood varsity girls’ golf team finally got the chance to finish a full competition Wednesday (Sept. 2) as Olivet hosted the first Greater Lansing Activities Conference jam­ boree of the season at The Medalist. Lakewood started its conference champi­ onship defense by winning the jamboree with a score of 244. Perry was second at 254, ahead of Olivet 355 and Laingsburg 273. The Vikings are trying to make it eight conference titles in a row this fall. The pro­ gram has finished atop the GLAC standings in each of the conference’s first six seasons. Lakewood had three girls in the top five of the day’s individual standings. Natalie Lang shot a 58, Claire Benham a 59 and Morgan Stahl a 60. The Vikings also got 67s from Hailee Shepard and Makenzie Vasquez. Stahl was a first team all-conference per­ former in the GLAC last year, and Benham and Shepard both earned honorable mention all-conference nods. Lakewood head coach Carl Kutch, who is in his 19th season leading the program, likes the positivity and composure he saw from his girls in the early part of the season. Laingsburg’s Grace Elfring was the day’s top individual with a score of 51 and Perry’s Jackie Mattison shot a 56. Olivet had four girls finish in the 60’s to earn the third-place spot. Erin Bucienski led the Eagles with a 61. Olivet also got a 63 from Drue Allen, a 65 from Abby Williams and a 66 from Lauren Pawloski. The Vikings are scheduled to host a GLAC jamboree this afternoon (Sept. 10). Hastings junior Carissa Strouse, a state quali­ fier in Division 2 last year, won the girls’ race in 21:16.0, finishing a little over 15 seconds ahead of Lakewood senior Katie Acker who was the runner-up in 21:31.7. It was the Grand Rapids Chariots of Fire Homeschool team that won the boys’ race at the Lakewood Invitational with 38 points. West Michigan Aviation was second with 41, ahead of Delton Kellogg 2, Hastings 82 and Portland 127. Maple Valley also competed Wednesday, but like the Lakewood boys, did not have enough runners to earn a team score. Zac Gibson, who was limited to just a cou­ ple August races during his sophomore sea­ son, placed 18th at Wednesday’s invitational for the Lakewood boys, earning a time of 20:06.4. Ryan Alford wls 20th in 20:18.5 and Aideri Pyle 24th in 21:1|.9. Delton Kellogg had two guys in the top ten. Senior Micah Ordway was fifth in 18:12.6 and sophomore Hector Jimenez ninth in 19:07.3. The Panther team also had Austin Blocker 21st in 20:30.2, Micah Martin 23rd in 20:41.0 and Austin Bagley 29th in 23:04.9. Hastings was led by a trio of freshmen. Caleb LaBoe was tenth in 19:19.5, Riley The following County Treasurers will be offering tax-reverted real estate at public Auction on September 22nd, 2020: Barry & Kalamazoo. N0 MORE GUTTER cleaning, I oofMciUcir* Lt:ciiwni it:i or your money BACK GUARANTEED! PROTECTION CALL US TODAY FOR X* A FREE ESTIMATE and junior third singles player Cohn Heyl in the dual with the Orioles. Dumond bested Montana Powell 6-1, 6-1. Heyl scored a 6-2, 6-2 win over Logan Rysko. Lakewood junior Eastin Stank suffered a close defeat to the Orioles’ Cole Coats, 6-4, 6-3. The Lakewood boys are currently sched­ uled to face Harper Creek in a dual this after­ noon (Sept. 10). The Vikings have plans to host their annual Lakewood Invitational Sept. 12, although jt will be a slimmed down ver­ sion. A maximum of four teams are allowed to be at any one site for tennis tournaments this fall. The new executive order, 2020-176, which brought about the return of high school foot­ ball to the fall season and opened gyms for volleyball and swim teams also had a side effect on the lower risk sports that tennis that have already been competing for a couple weeks. Tennis players are now required to wear masks during competition. Rapids Chariots of Fire Homeschool teams earned no team scores. Lakewood had four girls finish in the top ten Wednesday. Anja Kelley was seventh in 24: 29.9, Emily Apsey eighth in 24:35.2 and Sadie Brearley tenth in 24:48.6. Lakewood’s fifth scorer was sophomore Emma Lancaster, who placed 13th in 25:24.6. Joining Strouse in the top five scoring Saxons were Allison Teed with a fourth-place time of 23:21.4, Aura Wahl-Piotrowski sixth in 23:46.9, Lily Comensoli 15th in 26:19.4 and Hannah Crozier 19th in 27:50.8. The third-place Delton Kellogg team was led by Halena Phillips who placed fifth in 23:42.5. DK also had Joelle White 11th in 25: 15.2, Kasey Kapteyn 16th in 26:48.8, Brea Chandler 18th in 27:43.1 and Amber Barton 28th in 30:38.5. Maple Valley had three girls competing. The first two finishers were freshmen for the Lions, Lilly Faurot (ninth in 24:41.9) and Nadia Martin (22nd in 28:16.7). Senior team­ mate Alyson Gusey placed 33rd in 40:27.1. “Faurot, medaled in her first high school cross country race and looked strong keeping up with the upperclassmen who were racing around her,” coach Blakely said. Public Land Auction Vikes beat Charlotte for first team win of 2020 Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Lakewood varsity boys’ tennis team scored its first victory of the young season Wednesday, knocking off visiting Charlotte 5-1. The Vikings won the only two doubles flights, with juniors Asher Tiegeler and Logan Tefft earning a 6-0, 6-1 win at first doubles and juniors Preston Weller and Ellie Minard scoring a forfeit win at second doubles. Lakewood has a roster filled with juniors this fall, but topped off with returning senior state qualifier Brady Gawne who earned a spot in the Division 4 Lower Peninsula State Finals at the end of the 2019 season. Gawne scored a 6-0, 6-0 win over Landon Cosby from Charlotte Wednesday. Viking head coach Karrie Carter said she expects Gawne to be pushing for a spot in the state finals once again this fall. The Vikings also got wins from returning junior second singles player Clay Dumond Shults 13th in 19:37.6 and Jonah Teed 15th in 19:51.7. The Saxons also had senior Claten Patten 26th in 21:21.9 and freshman Reuben Solmes 32nd in 23:18.5. Maple Valley senior Curtis Walker was the first Lion across the finish line, placing 22nd in 20:36.3, running his fastest time ever on the course at Lakewood High School. His fresh­ man teammate Nicholas Martin was 41st in 25:48.2, with Lion sophomore Adam Blakely 45th in 28:29.6 and freshman Owen McGlocklin 50th in 33:38.2. “I was very happy with how our boys ran,” Maple Valley head coach Tiffany Blakely said. Senior Curtis Walker, started his 4th year on varsity with his fastest Lakewood course time. “Blakely, who’s been building his miles, ran exactly what we expected, and is creating goals to keep building in speed. Both fresh­ men Nic Martin and Owen McGlocklin, who have joined us from the football team, did really well in their first cross country 5K ever. They both put in really solid runs and look to improve each race for the rest of the season.” Delton Kellogg was third in the girls’ standings, behind Lakewood and Hastings, with 65 points. Portland placed fourth with 90 points while the Maple Valley and Grand 1-866-495-1709 10 YOUR ENTIRE PURCHASE* SENIOR & MILITARY DISCOUNTS L Promo Numbe 285 *Forthose who qualify. One coupon per h DOPL #10783658-5501 License# 7656 L 233 977 License# 2102212986 License# WC-29998-H17 Nassau HIC License# H01 Cl 27230 Registration# 366920918 Regi Suffolk HIC License# 52229-H % OFF Due to restrictions surrounding COVID-19, the auction will be held ONLINE ONLY at www.tax-sale.info from 10:00am to 7:00pm EST. Bids can be placed up to 30 days in advance and assistance is available for those without computer or Internet access. For more information and a list of the properties being sold, visit: www.tax-sale.info or call 1-800-259-7470. 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State St., Hastings • 945-9673 mmh p raT OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm j Hu/sf Cleaners Pick-Up Station �Page 12 — Thursday, September 10, 2020 — The Hastings Banner New order opens athletic facilities, helps football return E.O. requires masks on ‘field ofjilay^ Brett Bremer Sports Editor Breakout the knee pads, shoulder pads, the shin guards, the swimsuits and the face masks. The high school fall sports season in the State of Michigan is firing up again after a partial false start in August. The high school fall football season was reinstated Thursday by the Representative Council of the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) after Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s Executive Order 2020­ 176 lifted restrictions that previously did not allow the sport to be played. Varsity football teams will open their season with the regular­ ly scheduled Sept. 18 games. There may be adjustments to the schedule, and one big change is that all varsity football teams in the state who are eligible will qualify for the post­ season. High school boys’ soccer teams were able to begin competing immediately. Thomapple Kellogg’s varsity boys’ soccer team traveled to Cedar Springs for an OK Gold Conference contest Tuesday evening - scoring a 6-1 win over the host Red Hawks. High school girls’ swimming and diving teams and volleyball teams were all allowed to begin competitions Wednesday (Sept. 9). Those three sports, boys’ soccer, swimming and diving and volleyball had been allowed to practice outside since the MHSAA 2020 fall season began in mid-August, but were prohib­ ited from hosting competitions in Regions 1-5 and 7 based on the MI Safe Start Plan. “The players are excited. They are ready to get back on the field and play,” TK varsity boys’ soccer coach David Wood said Thursday. “We have been doing a lot of training, but they want to get back on the pitch and play and compete in conference.” E.O. 2020-176 also sets spectator limits of two per participant for outdoor and indoor events in Phase 4 of the MI Safe Start Plan, and appears to force athletes in all sports, who are not swimming, to wear a mask during competition. High school cross country, boys’ tennis and girls’ golf teams have been com- 147192 ^MQEVUEWNSMP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTH OF WWC NEAHNS ON SPfflM ASSESSMENT ROLL PARKWAY ORWE ROAD IMPROVEMENT SROM ASSESSMENT OISTRlCT NO. 20264 TO: The Maple Valley High School eight-player football program practices in masks during the opening week of high school football practice in August. Executive Order 2020-176, signed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer Sept. 3, gave the MHSAA the opportunity to move the high school football season back to the fall after a brief period in which it had planned to move the sport to the spring of 2021. All high school sports across the state are now able to compete, with athletes required to wear masks on the field of play. (Photo by Brett Bremer) THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF 0RAN6EWUE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, OWNERS OF LAND WITHIN THE PARKWAY DRIVE RCMD IMPROVEMENT SPEOAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 20204 AND ANY OTHERINTERESTOPPBONS, PLEASE TAKE NOTO tint tte township Su ptwtor trt Assessor have prepared art filed totteofficeaftheWwnshipClrt roil mwrfag all jrapertfas within the PARKWAY DRIVE ROAD IMPROVEMENT SPIQAL ASSESSEMENT DfiTfflCT NO. 20204 tenefitted by the proposed raid improvement project which project will hwtade paving of the road, along with associated activities such is, but fwt limited to. grading and drain^e work The costs of the project are as shown on the estimate of on file with the Towwhip Ctert the assessment roll has been prepared for the purpose of assessing oh dtb project wlthh the eforeuM special assessment dtetrlft asis more particularly shown tm plans cn file with the Township Ceric at the Township Hal, 7350 Linsey Road, Plain welt within the township; The assessment roll is in the total amount of $28,561 The costs. induding admhfefate costs are proposed to be raised fyf a new special assessment The assessment each parcel in the special assessment district will be approximate^ $ltJI per foot of tartap and/or driveway access on Parkway Otte, for a petto of five years, 2020 - 2024 fctaiVB the Tcwn^lp Board reserves the totevp tewmy-^rthat tlwreem^^ forts fa distort fort that then imm needed* RLE AS TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Supervisor art Assessing Officer have reported to the Township Board that the assessment against each parcel of land within said District is such relative portion of the whole sum levied against all parcels of tend fa said District as the benefit to such pamet tears to the total benefit to all parcels of tod fa said District PLEASE TAKE FATHER NOTICE that the Oraigevfc township Board will meet at the Plainwell, Michigan on Tuesday September^ Orangeville Township Hal, 7350 Lindsey 2020 at W p* for the purpoie of reviewing tiw WW assessment rol art tertng any tejettto thereto, The roll may be examfart it the office of the Township Clerk (taring regular business hours of regular bushes tirtl the time of the heirfag and may further mmfart «the hertr^. Anyone wWifaf to attend tills meeting remotely my do so, The information for remote access; Join Bom Meeting . htfo5://u^2web,zaomtus/j/B5O46O25224?^d-a2FpUdySUSXdmpnTEhPQIcg0YmZHd2(K Meeting ID: S50 4602 5224 Passcode: 240226 One tap mobile +131262K799, JS04ffl2S22<„f,0#J40226# US (Chirago) +L6468769923, J504602522«^f0#w240226# US (New York) Dial by your location +1312 626 6799 US (Chicago) , +1646 870923 US (New Yort +1301715 8592 US (Germantown) +125321^ 8732 uS (Tacoma) +1346248 7799 US (Holton) +14086380968 US (San Jose) +1669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Meeting ID: 8504602 5224 > Pa$icode; 240226 PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that an owner or party fa interest or his/her agent may appear in person at rhe hearing to protest the special assessment or may file his/her . appearance and protest by letter before the hearing, art fa that event ptRonel a p pea ranee shall not be required. Any penon objecting to the assessment mH shall file his/her objection thereto in writing with the Township Clerk before the dose of the hearing or within such other time as the Township Board may grant. The owners or any person having an interest fa real property who protest in writing at or before the hearing may file a written appeal of the sped al assessment with the State fox Tribunal within 30 days after confirmation of the special assessment roll Orangeville Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (4) days' notice to the Orangeville Township Clerk at the address below Mel RlsnerF Clerk Orangeville Township 7350 Lindsey Road Plainwell, Ml 49080 {269)664-4522 peting for more than two weeks now without any restrictions requiring mask wearing by the competitors. The MHSAA did announce Tuesday (Sept. 8) that officials will not be required to wear masks while working competitions, and “since [masks] are not part of the playing rules, officials continue to have no role in the enforcement of facial coverings for players, coaches or spectators.” “This will all work out,” Lakewood varsity football coach Matt Markwart said Thursday, hours after getting his first text messages that the fall football season was back on. “I am just happy they get a chance to play. The seniors, they don’t get this back. If we don’t have football this year, I get to coach again next year but they don’t get to play again next year. I am just glad they get an opportunity to play. For the, it is their memories and we’re all here to make memories for them. That is the big thing, that they get the chance to make those memories. And it will definitely be memorable for them for a long time. I don’t think I’ll forget about this for a while, how it all went down.” The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) also released guidance Thursday (Sept. 3) on organized sports. The document recommends against contact sports at this time, defined to mean those sports involving more than occasional and fleeting contact, including football, bas­ ketball, and soccer. It also cites the elevated risk associated with activities that involve “shouting, singing, or breathing forcefully,” and notes there have been 30 reported out­ breaks associated with athletic clubs, teams, or athletic facilities. Statewide football, and competition in regions 1-5 and 7 for volleyball, soccer and swimming & diving, had been restricted as part of EO 160, which ordered gyms and pools to remain closed and required social distancing in competition to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in areas under Phase 4 of the Safe Start plan. Schools in Regions 6 and 8 (northern lower Michigan and the Upper Peninsula) have been able to play vol­ leyball, soccer and swim because those regions have been under fewer restrictions while in Phase 5 of the reopening process. Away from the schools, facilities like gyms, bowling alleys and pools were allowed to open Wednesday, Sept. 9. The governor also signed Executive Order 2020-175 Thursday, outlining strict workplace safety measures gyms and pools must follow to protect people from the spread of CX)VID-19. Bowling alleys, roller rinks, and ice rinks may be open for the sole purpose of serving as a venue for organized sports, according to e.o. 2020-176. Hastings Bowl has leagues already competing this week. “Throughout this pandemic, we have fol­ lowed the best science and data available to safe, and our hard work is paying off. Today we are announcing the reopening of gyms and pools with strict safety measures in place to protect patrons and their families,” said Governor Whitmer. “I urge everyone who plans to hit the gym after these orders go into effect to take these precautions seriously and do everything in their power to protect them­ selves and their families. Be smart, and stay safe.” “Individuals can now choose whether or not to play organized sports, and if they do choose to play, this order requires strict safety measures to reduce risk,” said Chief Medical Executive and MDHHS Chief Deputy for Health Dr. Joneigh Khaldun. “However, we know of 30 reported outbreaks involving ath­ letic teams and facilities in August. Based on current data, contact sports create a high risk of COVID-19 transmission and MDHHS strongly recommends against participating in them at this time. We are not out of the woods yet. COVID-19 is still a very real threat to our families.” The MHSAA’s Representative Council, on Aug. 14, postponed the Fall 2020 football season to Spring 2021, but voted Thursday to allow for a shortened season this fall. Schools are not required to play any of those sports this fall, and may postpone until the spring. However, the MHSAA will con­ duct its postseason events in those four sports only for the Fall 2020 season. “We are thankful for the opportunity for kids to get back on the field in all fall sports, and we appreciate Governor Whitmer provid­ ing that opportunity with Executive Order 176,” MHSAA Executive Director Mark Uyl said. “We share the Governor’s priorities of putting health and safety first, and the COVID­ 19 guidance and protocols designed by the MHSAA at her request have led to the safe starts in all sports across the state. “Thirty three other states are currently par­ ticipating in all fall sports, and the MHSAA and its member schools are committed to doing this as safely as possible. We are ready to again provide those experiences to students and communities that have hoped for a return of some normalcy. Given the challenges of online education in many school districts across the state, providing sports and a daily routine may be more important than ever in motivating students and providing a safe out­ let for physical activity, competition and socialization.” High School football teams in the state may begin regular-season games Sept. 18, and will play six games beginning with their original­ ly-scheduled Week 4 contests. All football teams in 11 and 8-player football will qualify for the playoffs during this fall’s shortened season, and then advance through their usual postseason progression with 8-Player Finals the weekend of Nov. 27-28 and 11-Player Finals the weekend of Dec. 4-5. All other Fall 2020 MHSAA tournaments will be conducted as previously scheduled. “On behalf of the Michigan Fitness Club Association, we appreciate Governor Whitmer’s announcement regarding the re-opening of gyms and fitness centers,” said Alyssa Tushman, Vice Chair of the Michigan Fitness Club Association. “The health and safety of our members, staff, and the public in general is our top priority. We are well-pre­ pared to ensure a safe, clean environment and we are excited to offer Michiganders the opportunity to resume their exercise routines. We look forward to working with Governor Whitmer and her administration to help build a healthy Michigan.” Under Executive Order 2029^175, all gyms and pools that reopen must enforce strict safe­ ty measures. Gyms must require wearing of masks at all times, including times of exer­ cise, configure workout stations or implement protocols to enable six feet of distance between individuals during exercise sessions, reduce class sizes to enable at least six feet of separation between individuals, provide equipment-cleaning products throughout the gym, and more. MDHHS’ guidance released Thursday rec­ ommends mitigation measures organized sports teams may take to reduce the spread of COVID-19 during training, practices, and competitions. These recommendations include frequent hand washing, not letting players share towels, clothing, or other items they use to wipe their faces or hands, ensuring proper cleaning and disinfection of objects and equipment, prioritizing outdoor practice, and more. “As we begin to start organized sports back up again, I urge school districts and athletic associations to do everything in their power to protect players, coaches, and staff. That means carefully following the guidelines released today by DHHS,” said Whitmer. “Going for­ ward; we will continue to work with health experts to assess the risk associated with busi­ ness sectors that remain closed. For the health and safety of our families and frontline work­ ers, it is crucial that we proceed thoughtfully and incrementally so we can measure the effects of today’s actions before we take addi­ tional steps towards re-engagement.” Parchment teams faster than Delton pack at dual Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Parchment varsity cross country teams bested the visiting Delton Kellogg squads in duals Tuesday afternoon. The Parchment boys placed 15th at the Division 3 Lower Peninsula State Finals a year ago, and brought back the team’s top three runners from that race this fall including state medalist Garrett Winter. Now a junior, Winter won Tuesday’s race with the Panthers in 17 minutes 52 seconds with his sophomore teammate William Winter in second place at 18:12. The Parchment boys won their dual with the DK boys 21-39. Delton Kellogg senior Micah Ordway, another Division 3 state med­ alist from a year ago, placed third in 18:17. His DK teammate, sophomore Hector Jimenez, was fourth in 18:52. The next four guys across the finish line were from Parchment though. DK had sophomore Micah Martin ninth in scoring with a time of 21:21, Eli Austin 11th in 22:16 and Brett Harsevoort 12th in 23:33. Parchment narrowly edged the Delton Kellogg girls 27-30 at the race, with the first three finishers leading the way for the hosts. Mary Dow, an individual state qualifier in 2019, won the race in a new personal record time of 19:53. Senior Sherry Dow was second in 22:21 and Parchment freshman Bethan Brown third in 24:25. The Delton Kellogg team had the next six girls across the finish line. That group was led by junior Halena Phillips who was fourth in 24:29. Junior Aubrey Aukerman ran her fast­ est race of the season to finish fifth in 24:29. DK also had sophomore Joelle White sixth in 26: 23, sophomore Kasey Kapteyn seventh in 27: 35 and freshman Brea Chandler eighth in 27:43. Sophomore Amber Barton was the DK girls’ number six runner, placing tenth in 29:22. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-09-17.pdf 47d8d0162407cb4ecf688db859b7870e PDF Text Text Hastings Public Library 227 E State Street Hastings Ml 49058 Gaines Township housing project OK’d Support your local news writers See Story on Page 2 See Editorial on Page 4 Soccer Saxons start 2-0 in 1-8 See Story on Page 16 804879110187 1070490102590504541949058195427 |_QT**Q QQ3 QQ03 Hastings Public Library 227 E State St Hastings Ml 49058-1954 Thursday, September 17, 2020 VOLUME 167, No. 37 PRICE $1.00 Possible case of EEE found in Hastings man Gravel pit proposal on Zoom call tonight The Hope Township Planning Commission will meet tonight in a regular session. The board is scheduled to discuss a Wilkinson Lake gravel pit special use application from R. Smith and Sons Inc. The board will meet in person. However, due to executive orders limiting the size of gatherings, members of the public are being asked to join the meeting virtually via a Zoom call. The meeting is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. The Zoom meeting link is: https:// us02web .zoom.us/j/89105467174. The meeting ID is 891 0546 7174 and is required for those attempting to join the meeting by phone. Two numbers are available to call in to the meeting, they are: +1 312 626 6799 and +1 929 205 6099. Calley to visit Hastings Sept. 28 State Rep. Julie Calley, R-Portland, is coming to Hastings on Monday, Sept. 28, to meet with residents. She will be at the Bob King Park Pavilion, from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Beginning at 1:30 p.m, Calley will host individual meetings with residents who have specific issues they wish to discuss. No prior appointment is necessary, but, out of courtesy to others, Calley said the individual meetings would be limited to 10 minutes each. Hastings school board to meet Monday Aeriaj sgraying was expected to haBBSO ibis week Greg Chandler Staff Writer A Hastings man is likely the first human case of the mosquito-borne virus Eastern equine encephalitis in Michigan. Jeff Wescott is currently being treated at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital in Grand Rapids, after having spent nearly two weeks at Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital, including four days in the intensive care unit. State officials are treating the situa­ tion as a “suspected” EEE case, but Wescott’s wife, Tina, told The Banner in an interview Tuesday that her husband was diagnosed as positive for EEE by the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. “Mayo Clinic confirmed it last week from the spinal tap fluid sent to them,” Tina Wescott said. “My husband was a healthy 58-year-old before (he was) bitten. This has completely wiped him off his feet.” EEE is one of the most dangerous mosqui­ to-borne illnesses in the United States, with a 33-percent fatality rate in people who become ill. The disease can be spread by one bite of a mosquito carrying the virus, with people younger than age 15 and those older than age 50 at greatest risk of severe disease, said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. “This suspected EEE case in a Michigan resident shows this is an ongoing threat to the health and safety of Michiganders and calls for continued actions to prevent exposure,” Dr. Khaldun said in a news release Tuesday. “MDHHS continues to encourage local offi­ cials in the affected counties to consider post­ poning, rescheduling or cancelling outdoor activities occurring at or after dusk, particu­ larly those involving children to reduce the potential for people to be bitten by mosqui­ toes.” More than 25 percent of the nation’s human EEE cases last year were diagnosed in Michigan. Of those, six of the 10 people who were diagnosed with EEE in the state died from the virus. In Barry County, five animals and one human were infected with the disease See CASE, page 12 New modular house lifted into place Luke Froncheck Staff Writer The lot at 600 East North Street in Hastings did not have a house at 8 a.m. Tuesday morn­ ing, but by 10:30 a.m., construction workers were nearing completion on the placement of a 1,680-square-foot modular structure there. The Michigan State Housing Development Authority awarded the Barry Community Foundation a $196,000 grant to cover the cost of constructing one modular house. The grant allows the Barry Community Foundation to partner with local businesses to construct three-bedroom, two-bathroom homes for middle-income families. “This mod project will provide a new, safe, and beautiful home for families just starting out or even a new college graduate,” Foundation President Bonnie Gettys said. “Middle-income housing has been an issue.” Construction workers with JM Quality Construction LLC of Millersburg, Ind., began attaching straps to lift the structure and place it on the site at about 10 a.m. Workers hooked the belts to a beam con­ trolled by a crane operator from All-State Crane & Rigging of Holland. The operator took the structure and lifted it high, maneu­ vering it over the foundation before placing it down for the construction workers to attach. The same process was repeated for the front half of the residence. The process, in total, took about 30 minutes. Both halves of the structure were built in a temperature-controlled factory in Indiana, Don Mullins, service manager for Commodore Homes of Indiana, said. He said his company builds five houses a week and distributes See HOUSING, page 8 Thornapple Manor $10.5 million assisted living project proceeds The Hastings Area School System Board of Education is scheduled to meet Monday at the newly renovated Central Elementary School. Superintendent Dam Remenap said the meeting will begin at 6 p.m. and start with a tour of the elementary school. The meeting is open to the public - as long as everyone sticks to social distanc­ ing guidelines, Remenap said. In agenda items, board members will be asked to approve several resignations and discuss two donations to the district. Rebecca Pierce Editor Barry County commissioners gave a resounding OK to begin the process for the issuance of capital improvement bonds to finance a $10.5 million assisted living com­ plex next to Thornapple Manor. Then, in a second action, the board autho­ rized contracts for the design and manage­ ment of the construction, hiring Eckert Wordell PC for $580,000 as the architect and CM Contracting for $478,000 as construction manager and contractor for the project. These two companies served in the same capacities for the county in 2012 for the Thornapple Manor cottages which expanded the medical care facility. Financial advisers Robert Bendzinski and Stephen Hayduk, from Bendzinski & Company of Grosse Pointe, who will help the county sell the bonds, discussed the project Middleville dam repair delayed again Repairs to the dam over the Thomapple River in downtown Middleville have been delayed a second time. Village Manager Patricia Rayl said Wednesday that conditions for replacing the dam’s spillage gates and hinges were still not safe enough for Commonwealth Power Co. to proceed with the work. “The (water) flow is still too fast (for the work to be done safely),” Rayl said. At its Sept. 8 meeting, the village coun­ cil had approved a work permit for Commonwealth Power, which owns and operates the dam, to make the repairs and agreed to close the East Main Street bridge for all of this week to accommo­ date the project. Rayl said she had spoken to utility offi­ cials earlier on Wednesday and expressed hope that the repair work could take place Wednesday through Friday of next week. “Fortunately, the forecast looks like it’s going to be dry,” she said. The dam repair project was originally scheduled to take place Sept. 2-5, but was delayed because the company failed to submit information to the village for the right-of-way work permit by the sched­ uled start date. Also, it had not met a requirement to post a $50,000 restoration bond to protect the village from potential damage to the bridge itself. Tina and Jeff Wescott on their wedding day a year ago. (Photo courtesy of Tina Wescott) A modular house is lifted into place at 600 East North Street in Hastings. and the process at the commissioners’ Committee of the Whole meeting. “Our role is to assist you,” Bendzinski told the board. The county may issue capital improvement bonds in an amount up to 5 percent of the county’s state equalized valuation. Based on a 2020 SEV of $3.2 billion, the county’s debt limit for bonds is $160 million. But the reso­ lution and notice of intent indicates the princi­ pal amount is not to exceed $15 million. The resolution also includes reimbursement language so that the county can reimburse itself for preliminary project expenditures paid prior to the issuance of the bonds. The estimated cost of the preliminary expenditures is $250,000 to be paid from the Thomapple Manor fund. Bendzinski complimented the county on See PROJECT, page 9 Barry County has retained the services of financial advisers Stephen Hayduk (right) and Robert Bendzinski to work on the Thornapple Manor project. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) �Page 2 — Thursday, September 17, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Gaines Township narrowly approves major housing project Official questions whether Zoom virtual meeting, limited public input Greg Chandler Staff Writer A 399-unit residential housing develop­ ment is expected to break ground in Kent County’s Gaines Charter Township before the end of the year, but at least one township offi­ cial is questioning whether the public got a chance to fully weigh in on the project because the meeting took place virtually. In a 4-3 vote Monday night, the township board approved a request from Grand Rapidsbased Eastbrook Homes to rezone a 159-acre parcel just east of Breton Avenue between 68th and 76th streets for the Alexander Trails planned unit development. The approval came 21 months after the project was first proposed to the township in December 2018. Supervisor Rob DeWard, Treasurer Laurie Lemke, Clerk Michael Brew and Trustee Tim Haagsma voted to approve the rezoning, while trustees Dan Fryling, Crystal Osterink and Kathy VanderStel voted against it. Eastbrook Homes is planning to build 218 single-family homes, 178 dwelling units with­ in 46 attached condominium buildings and three out-parcel home lots, resulting in a den­ sity of a little more than 2.5 units per acre. “What it does, we feel, is provide a com­ munity that’s got a large demographic mix, both in ages and income levels. It allows us to serve a price point that’s really difficult to serve otherwise,” Eastbrook Homes represen­ tative Mike McGraw said. Eastbrook has developed other housing projects in Gaines Township, most notably Preservation Lakes and Cook’s Crossing sub­ divisions. “The developer stated that there will be many high-end homes there, in the $600,000 range, as well as some other (more affordable) housing,” DeWard said. “As a township, we have an obligation to provide housing at dif­ ferent income levels. I think this project does that.” But Fryling is questioning whether town­ ship residents got a full opportunity to express their views on the project. Toward the end of Monday’s meeting, he spoke out about con­ ducting the meeting through Zoom and how it may have limited the ability of some residents to speak out about the project. “We are permanently changing the face of this township.We’re permanently changing people’s lives,” Fryling said. “This Zoom is just not doing it. I think there was a major decision made tonight, that if we were all (meeting) in person, I don’t know if the deci­ sion would have went that way. I just despise this. We can’t keep doing this. It’s just not right for the citizens of our township.” ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------“We are permanently changing the face of this township. We’re perma­ nently changing people’s lives. This Zoom is just not doing it. I think there was a major decision made tonight, that if we were all (meeting) in person, I don’t know if the decision would have went that way. I just despise this. We can’t keep doing this. It’s just not right for the citizens of our township.” Gaines Township Trustee Dan Fryling DeWard said that the Zoom meetings were necessitated by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s executive order limiting in-person meetings to a maximum of 10 people. Last month, the board delayed a decision on the project after at least seven residents showed up at the township hall asking to speak in person to object to the development, even though township officials had issued a notice beforehand saying that the public hear­ ing would be held via Zoom. DeWard said, for Monday’s meeting, the township created a space in the township hall where residents could access the hearing and be able to comment. “We set up an opportunity for people who wanted to come in, where they could use our computer system to log on (to the meeting),” DeWard said. No one came to the township hall to use the computer system, DeWard said. However, several other residents voiced their objections through their Zoom connection. Leon Pratt, who lives in the nearby Sienna Pointe subdivision, objected to plans by the developer to build a bridge over Plaster Creek, which runs east-to-west through the property. Pratt said the bridge will contribute to increased traffic - he called it “a beehive of activity” - in Sienna Pointe. He asked the developer to add a second outlet onto 76th Street. “Right now, it only has one outlet and that really doesn’t seem to make a lot of sense for 334 units (south of Plaster Creek), which is like 850 cars, that they only have one outlet onto 76th,” Pratt said. “It seemed like the most practical thing is that they have two out­ lets ... so school buses can come in and out, emergency vehicles can come in and out trash, service vehicles - give them an in and an out, and let Plaster Creek be a natural divide with no bridge.” Michael Illikainen, who lives on 76th Street, said the current road infrastructure is insufficient to take on the additional traffic that Alexander Trails will add onto 76th. “Even if the development occurs in phases, it’s likely to be well underway before any road improvements could be made to the nar­ row shoulder on 76th Street,” Illikainen said. “As I understand it, no detailed plans are presently being considered for improving that road.” Haagsma, who is director of traffic and safety at the Kent County Road Commission, confirmed that the agency does not have 76th Street on its list of road projects for the next five years. Illikainen added that it should maintain its present traditional single-family zoning des­ ignation for the area, which would call for less density. The Alexander Trails project calls for the single-family homes to have a minimum lot width of 65 feet and minimum total footprint of 8,500 square feet, compared to a minimum lot width of 80 feet and mini­ mum lot size of 14,000 square feet for the RL-14 zoning. Osterink shared similar concerns about the density of Alexander Trails, calling it “a dras­ tic change from the zoning requirements.” “When I look at the map, those are a lot of houses packed into a small area,” she said. But McGraw says the density of the devel­ opment fits the township master plan. “The master plan density, as called for here, is one to four units per acre. What we’re pro­ posing is right in that range; it’s 2.5 units an acre,” he said. “Overall, it is indeed consistent with what was originally thought for this area from an overall density standpoint.” In addition, McGraw cited the township’s PUD ordinance, which he says encourages innovation and creativity in land use planning and development, and creates variety in hous­ ing options that might not be available through traditional zoning. “Generally speaking, PUD ordinances allow for variations in lot sizes or home types with certain tradeoffs. Those might be park spaces, they might be trails,” McGraw said, noting that Alexander Trails will feature 50 acres of open space. Lemke said the decision to approve it was a tough one, but praised Eastbrook Homes for planning to phase in the development over time. “I like the fact that you’re talking 15 years out. That gives us time to improve 76th Street; give the neighbors that are there now time to acclimate to this project.” Township planner Dan Wells says he expects Eastbrook to soon break ground on the development. “I would assume that they would start doing some site preparation work fairly quick­ ly,” Wells said. Thornapple Manor COVID-19 case number at 21 Taylor Owens Staff Writer Three more positive cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed at Thomapple Manor since Friday, bringing the total number of staff to 12 and residents to nine who have tested positive for the novel coronavirus since last month. “Unfortunately, we’ve had one more staff and two more residents test positive with our routine testing,” Thornapple Manor Administrator Don Haney said Tuesday. “The residents have been moved into our isolation unit and the staff member has not worked since last Thursday, which was prior to any symptoms.” As occurred with all of the previous posi­ tives, the three new cases were in the reha­ bilitation unit of the senior care facility, which is separate from the rest of the build­ ing. Neither staff nor residents have experi­ enced severe symptoms, Haney said. Some staff have been cleared to return to work, and one resident has been discharged after receiving two negative tests. Haney said the challenge in keeping the virus contained is due, in part, to its long incubation period. “You can be exposed on Day One and not test positive until Day 14,” Haney said. Different kinds of tests also have different sensitivity levels, and may not always test correctly on a positive case. Even when the staff and residents at Thomapple Manor no longer get positive test results, the facility will not be declared COVID-19-free until 14 days have passed. “I’m going to keep holding my breath until we get through the 14-day period,” Haney said. A dull sun sets in Vermontville Tuesday night. (Photo by Taylor Owens) Wildfire smoke out West dulls sun here A satellite image taken by the National Weather Service shows a plume of smoke across the United States. The outline on the left is smoke in the lower atmosphere, while the outline on the right shows smoke hovering thousands of feet above the Earth. Taylor Owens Staff Writer Smoke from forest fires on the West Coast has created a haze 10,000 feet above West Michigan. National Weather Service Grand Rapids Meteorologist Nathan Jeruzal said, in recent days, the amount of sunlight blocked from the smoke has dropped the daily temperatures two or three degrees below what they should have been. But the smoke has remained in the upper atmosphere, and has not dropped low enough to cause health issues, Jeruzal said. “It is not causing as many impacts as it could,” he said. It’s not uncommon for fires from the west­ ern United States and Canada to move over Michigan, although Jeruzal noted that the fires currently burning along the West Coast are particularly bad. According to National Public Radio, more than 5 million acres have burned in California, Oregon and Washington in the past few months. Five of the biggest fires in California’s history have occurred this year. As of Tuesday, 27 people were reported dead, with dozens more missing. The jet stream has pulled smoke from the fires across the United States, and into the upper atmosphere. Jeruzal said the smoke has reached out over the Atlantic Ocean. A cold front which passed through Wednesday was expected to dissipate much of the smoke over Michigan, but Jeruzal said the smoke could return in the coming weeks. “There is still a lot of smoke hanging out over the western states,” he said. 15 Hastings students return from quarantine Sophie Bates Staff Writer Fifteen students in the Hastings Area School System returned to school Tuesday after quarantining for seven days. The students needed to quarantine for seven days, instead of the recommended 14, because the COVID-19 positive student hadn’t been in school since Sept. 1 and didn’t test positive until Sept. 8. “It is important to note that we are not sure this student was ever at school while ill; we are simply taking all precautionary mea­ sures,” Superintendent Dan Remenap said Wednesday. Remenap declined to answer which HASS school the COVID-19 positive student attends; however, he did confirm that the classroom and other facilities used by the stu­ dent have received extra cleaning. The district must follow the Barry-Eaton Health Department’s guidelines and protocols OPEN HOUSE We would like to welcome the community to tour Central Elementary as we showcase the completion of the bond improvement project. when a student or staff member tests positive for COVID-19, Remenap said. The protocol requires HASS to contact the health depart­ ment when they have a confirmed case of COVID-19, and vice versa. Contact tracing is used to determine which students and staff came into close contact with an infected individual; the health department then recommends a length of time for those individuals to quarantine — usually 10 to 14 days, depending on when they were last in contact with the infected individual, when the individual tested positive and other factors. This was the district’s first COVID-19 case, but it was not an unexpected event, Remenap said. “We knew that the odds were we would have a student come down with the illness,” Remenap said. “Unfortunately, I do not believe this will be our first and only positive case in the district, but I am not sure if it will be semi-regular, rare, or what - and speculat­ ing only causes anxiety. “We will simply continue to follow all health and safety protocols and do all we can to keep students and staff safe while dealing with the pandemic.” i Monday, September 21st, starting at 6:00 pm to 6:45 pm 509 S. Broadway St., Hastings, Ml 49058 Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads Smoke that dimmed the sunrise over the Thornapple River at Charlton Park Tuesday morning was from West Coast wildfires. (Photo by Art Frith) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 17, 2020 — Page 3 ,x . fl look back at the stories and columns on local history In the Hastings Banner TURNING I BACK THE 1 PAGES Not all were in favor of ‘paved’ streets in early 1900s Sidewalks and curbs were part of the repaving project in July 1963. The following column by the late Esther Walton was published in the Sept. 11, 1986, Banner. At various times in Hastings’ past, the question of paved streets surfaced. Hastings had a late start in this form of civic improve­ ment. According to M.L. Cook, the delayed start may have been in response to the first attempt at “paving” back in 1885. All streets in Hastings at that time were dirt roads. In spring, or after a heavy rain, they became sticky rivers of mud. Wheel tracks cut the roads to shreds and in freezing weather, formed a rough, flinty surface. In dry weather, the roadways were pulverized into dust that covered all exposed surfaces with liberal applications of fine grit. To add to this, the horses that stood hitched on the street added their contribution. The piles of contribution made crossing the street a precarious process for the nimble-footed residents. The presence of this ingredient also created a problem of aromas of unpleasant quality that were subdued only by blankets of snow and ice in the wintertime. In 1885, Aiderman Jones decided to rectify the situation. It was his brilliant idea to cover the road with wood ash, and it was his belief that wood ash would pack down hard and make a low-cost, hard surface. But this was not to be. A light sprinkling of rain might have provided enough moisture to keep the topping solidly packed. Instead of this, there came a series of heavy downpours that soaked into the blanket of ash and turned it into a gray­ white mess of goo that evoked outbursts of profanity from disgusted drivers and uncontrollable guffaws form the sidewalk spectators. Dry weather brought little relief. The ash surface became pulverized into a dust that drifted through open doors and windows and even small cracks and crevices to cover furnishing and merchandise with a telltale coating of light gray dust. The city council was soon forced to have crews scrape away the ashes and put back the dirt and gravel. After this experience, the roads of Hastings were “maintained,” but not improved. By 1904, automobiles were making their appearance in the city, and again the clamor arose to improve the roads, at the very least improve the main street. The Hastings Herald in June 1904 interviewed “a number of property owners who would likely be affected by such improvement,” and predictably, the tally was mixed. Even today, when an expensive civic improvement is proposed, the responses would be about the same. Here are the results form 1904: A.E. Kenaston, city attorney: There certainly ought to be something done with Main Street, and I am in favor of permanent improvements. I think brick pavement would be all right. John Goodyear of Goodyear Brothers Hardware dealers: Yes, I am in favor of paving with brick. I want it done right. J.T. Lombard, National Bank president: You can’t pave any too quick for me. I wish it could be done this season. It would be a grand improvement. Wm. Andrews, of Andrews and Bessmer, meat market: I haven’t time to do it myself, but if it doesn’t cost over $175,1 would like to see it done. I am heartily in favor of the improvement. Former mayor A.E. Renkes of Renkes and Walldorff, furniture dealers: I don’t think the city ought to attempt to pave until it gets in better shape financially. Former mayor A.A. Anderson, cashier of the City Bank: It’s the proper thing to do; I would like to see it done this year. It would be a grand improvement. Brick improvement is all right. W.H. Stebbins, undertaker: Whatever you do, do it right, even if it does cost a little more. Former mayor D.W. Rogers, insurance [Hastings Mutual Insurance Company founder]: I am free to express to you that I am heartily in favor of paving State Street, and have been for several years. I believe the pavement should extend from the CK&S Railroad [East State Street, near Green Street] to the soldiers monument [at the time in the center of the State Street/Broadway intersection]. I would like to see the work done this year. I wish it had been done several years ago. The city ought to have a main street to be proud of. Joseph Pffug, saloonist: I don’t know, I’m with the majority, but something ought to be done. Frank Horton, grocer: I am in favor of paving. Mayor Fred L. Heath, druggist: Yes, certainly I am in favor of paving. The only way to permanently improve the city is to put in permanent improvements. A. Woolley: Yes, I am willing to do what the rest do, although it doesn’t make much difference tome. Charles H. Gardner, liveryman: Yes, lam perfectly willing to pay my share. It would be a drawing card for the town. You can count me in on it. W.D. Hayes, cashier of the National Bank: Yes, I am in favor of paving. As far as my observation goes, I think brick would make as suitable a pavement as any. W.J. Holloway, druggist: I have not given the matter much thought. If I had to decide the question now, I would say no. I think we should wait until the city is better off financially. L.E. Stauffer, retired merchant: I have always been in favor or paving and am now, but as a second improvement should be done with the city hall. I think this matter should be tended to before paving. Chester Messer, president of City Bank: No, I am not in favor of paving; I think something should be done with the city hall. There is about $14,000 invested in it, and we are nowhere near realizing its full value. I would favor building a separate building for the fire department and reserving the lower story for the city hall for a council room, reading rooms and library. The second story With a sidewalk in place, crews work on the curbs and street in this 1963 photo of State Street looking west from the Apple/ Boltwood intersection. could be let by the city at a nominal rent to an organization, say the board of trade, who would turn it into an auditorium, something of which the city is in great need. The basement might be utilized for bowling alleys, baths, etc. John Bessmer, jeweler: No one can deny that the main street needs paving, but I think we ought to wait until some of the present indebtedness has been paid off. I think the material that should be used, if we are to have paving, should be thoroughly investigated. George Tinkler: No, I am not in favor of paving this year. I think the city is too small to have such a luxury. I think it would be far better to improve some of the roads leading into the city. E.A. Burton, of Chidester and Burton: If the municipality would expend the interest on the sum it would cost to pave State Street in keeping the gravel roads in good repair, we would have the best kind of street... There is another minor objection, especially the cruelty and injury to falling horses. W.R. Cook, Hastings Banner. I am in favor of paving. I think brick would be the thing to use. R.I Hendershott, hardware dealer: Pavement would be a fine thing, but the advisability of making such an improvement would depend on the cdst. Luke Waters, of F.H. Barlow and Co.: No, I am not in favor of the proposition. I think State Street can be made good enough by re-graveling.” *" L.J. Goodyear, of tfie J.S. Goodyear Co.:»I am in favor of paving State Street. Dr. D. Fuller: I am opposed to paving. I think we can’t afford it. R.J. Grant, elevator: No, I am not in favor of paving. I think we can use the money to better advantage, as for example, increasing the capacity of the water works. The Banner, June 28, 1962, reported: “The first real improvement in the business district came in 1907 when, Dr. George W. Lowery, as mayor of Hastings [and also the owner of the first automobile in the city], put through its first paving job. State Street was paved with brick from Broadway to Michigan Avenue, South Jefferson from State to Court Street, and North Church and North Michigan from State Street to the railroad tracks [now Most of the brick streets were paved over in the summer of 1963. This view is from the intersection of State Street and Broadway, looking east. The brick building on the corner (left) was the former city hall. Apple Street]. “The job was completed during the late summer of 1907, and both the mayor and the councilmen gave close attention to the project. The fact that this pavement was in continual use for more than half a century, with only minor repairs, indicates that the work was well done. “Pictures taken while the work was in progress indicate that the entire street must have been closed down while the pavement was being constructed. All the grading and earthmoving was done by shovel and horse­ drawn scoops. For weeks on end, [State] Street must have been ‘jumping’ from the noise of gangs of men at work and pervaded with the aroma of melted tar. “Normal business routine was sidetracked for the moment. Horses couldn’t’ be hitched as usual to spots along the street. Even the walks were cluttered while the new curbings were being put in place. “People were inconvenienced townspeople, merchants and those who came here to trade. But the end product was worth it: A smooth hard-surfaced pavement, complete with curbs and gutters, that was dustless in dry weather and free of muddy pools after rain storms. The brick continued to serve the purpose until 1963 when the main streets were paved over with asphalt. The only remaining portion of original brick is one block on Church Street between State and Apple streets - and that was spared mainly because of the efforts of the late Dick and Posy Shuster and others. A marker along the remnant brick street was installed in 1978. It reads: “This block of brick paving is the only extant portion of Hastings’ first major street improvement project, completed in 1907 as the result of the initiative of Dr. George W. Lowery, elected mayor in 1906. The fine condition of this surface after seven decades of constant usage testifies to the excellent workmanship of the craftsmen responsible for its construction.” It’s now been 113 years, and the brick street is still holding up. Call any time to place your Hastings Banner classified ad 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 MICHAEL KINNEY PLUMBING Licensed Master Plumber Licensed Journeyman Plumber New construction, remodel, repair, drain cleaning. BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEATERS Same Day Installation License #8110376 Office (269) 948-2248 & Insured Mobile (269) 838-5112 NO MORE GUTTER CLEANING, OR YOUR MONEY BACK GUARANTEED! CALL US TODAY FOR V* A FREE ESTIMATE 15o%ff YOUR ENTIRE PURCHASE1 Promo Number: 285 1-866-495-1709 dA% IU OFF T SENIOR 8t MILITARY DISCOUNTS % OFF 5 TO THE FIRST 50 CALLERS!” Mon-Thurs: 8am-11pm, Fri-Sat: 8am-5pm, Sun: 2pm-8pm EST *For those who qualify. One coupon per household. No obligation estimate valid for 1 year. ** Offer valid at estimate only. CSLB# 1035795 DOPL #10783658-5501 License# 7656 License# 50145 License# 41354 License# 99338 License# 128344 License# 218294 License# 603 233 977 License# 2102212986 License# 2106212946 License# 27051321 53A License# LEAFFNW822JZ License# WV056912 License# WC-29998-H17 Nassau HIC License# H01067000 Registration# 176447 Registration# HIC.0649905 Registration# C127229 Registration# C127230 Registration# 366920918 Registration# PC6475 Registration# IR731804 Registration# 13VH09953900 Registration# PA069383 Suffolk HIC License# 52229-H RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP Is seeking an individual to fill the position of: ZONING CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER I This is a part time position approximately 12 hours per week. Please call the Township Hall to schedule an interview with the Twp. Supervisor at (269) 948-2194 or fax resume to (269)948-4180 by Thursday, October !, 2020 to apply. Clinical Position/Pediatric Medical Office Local medical office in Hastings is looking for an experienced RMA/CMA/LPN. We are looking for a team member who is compassionate, dependable, detail-oriented, and can work in a fast-paced medical setting. 30-35 hours per week. The office is dedicated to serving the children in our community. If you’re looking for a career position that can be fun, challenging and rewarding, please reply to this ad at: Southside Pediatrics 300 Meadow Run Drive, Hastings, Ml 49058 or to email: hrdept@southside4kids.com. �Page 4 — Thursday, September 17, 2020 — The Hastings Banner In My Opinion Support your local news writers Veterans salute Sept. 11 victims Members of the Lawrence J. Bauer American Legion Post 45 stand with their rifles, ready to pay tribute to victims of the Sept. 11 attack at the downtown amphitheater in the village of Middleville. During the ceremony, American Legion members fired their rifles into the air for a three-volley salute. The ceremony also included several short speeches, the ringing of bells by Nate Otto of Thomapple Township Emergency Services and a trumpet performance by Marvin Mason, a member of Post 45. Do you remember? Tyden has Viking sprinklers Banner Feb. 29,1968 Officials and workmen at the Tyden Corp, this week were starting to move into the new 25,000 square-foot addition, which will house the Tyden Seal manufacturing operation at Industrial Park. The operations have been conducted in the original buildings on East Mill Street. Naturally, the new Tyden plant has Viking automatic sprinklers for fire protection. Men installing the system include: Gordon Timm, (left) Route 2, Middleville, and John Bishop, Route 2, Hastings. Phil Barrett, (right) Route 2, Hastings, of the Viking experimental department, looks on as the men adjust control units. More than 200 sprinkler heads were installed in the new plant. The sprinklers are turned on automatically if a fire should break out and, when the fire is out, they turn themselves off. Timm and Bishop work for the Great Lakes Viking Fire Protection Company of Grand Rapids. Have you met? Kinsley Poll of Hastings is the recipient of Kellogg Community College’s Outstanding Bruin Award for Outstanding Emergency Medical Services Student. “To qualify for an academic Outstanding Bruin Award, students must major or exhibit interest in their award area; earn a 3.5 or higher GPA in their award area; evidence significant creative growth; and exhibit a high degree of participation in and/or contri­ butions to the department activities in one or more capacities,” a KCC press release read. Poll, 20, is a third-year at KCC in the para­ medic program and an intermediate level Emergency Medical Technician for the Castleton Maple Grove Nashville EMS sta­ tion and the Marshall Area Fire Fighters Ambulance Authority. She is scheduled to graduate this December with a paramedic certificate which allows Poll to test for a national license. When she first started at KCC, Poll stud­ ied nursing and, later, criminal justice; how­ ever, after taking a Medical First Responder training class, Poll decided she wanted to major in Emergency Medical Services. “I fell into this line of work by taking an MFR course, going for a completely differ­ ent degree at KCC,” Poll said, “I liked it enough to see what the next level up of licen­ sure would be like and, when I started to actually work on the ambulance, I loved it and wanted to go for my paramedic.” Once she has her license, Poll hopes to work in a “busier system” like the Grand Rapids area; Poll said she plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in nursing within the next few years. “I absolutely love what I do and I hope to continually grow and get better,” Poll said. “I’ve been working on the ambulance for over a year-and-a-half, so not very long at all, in the scheme of things. “When I started, honestly, I was probably horrible. But, in saying that, 1 had amazing coworkers and mentors who helped teach me Kinsley Poll right and wrong ways. It’s completely differ­ ent learning something and actually applying it to real life.” Interacting with patients as a paramedic is one of Poll’s favorite parts of her job, she said. Having time to spend with her patients allows Poll to build relationships and moni­ tor the effectiveness of her first aid. “I love how, in rural medicine, I can see differences in patients throughout transport,” Poll said, “I directly see how my treatments are working and get to build a relationship with my patient.” Before attending KCC, Poll graduated from Lake wood High School in 2017. She has lived in Hastings all her life and enjoyed growing up in a rural environment. “I loved growing up in Hastings. Having a rural setting to grow up in and such great parents made for an interesting time growing up as we would visit things like Charlton Park during the summer, swim in Middle and Leech lake, and even go down the Thomapple River,” Poll said. Poll grew up in a family of seven com­ prised of her parents, Cynda and Mitch Poll; an older brother, Logan, currently serving overseas; a younger sister, Riley, who is a college student; a younger brother, Owen, an apprentice plumber; and younger sister, Lauren, a high school student. “I think it’s amazing to see the differences in all of us and what we were passionate enough to go to school or trade school for,” Poll said. “We were raised by amazing and hard-working parents which I can’t say thank you enough for.” For her dedication to academic excellence and quality healthcare service, Kinsley Poll is this week’s Banner Bright Light. What is your favorite season: My favorite season, by far, is fall, second being winter. Nothing beats Michigan with our fall colors! What motivates you: What motivates me is creating a life that I’m proud of and will continue to be proud of in the years to come. While I might not be there or close yet, I know that I’m taking the right steps to lead me to that point. What do you love about your job: What I love about my job, as cliche as it sounds, is the people that I’ve come across and the con­ versations had with them. What do you love most about Barry County: I love Barry County because of how “country” it is out here. Granted, I may be biased from growing up here, but I had an amazing childhood and got to participate in things that I would’ve missed out on living in a bigger city. What’s one of your hobbies: My most recent hobby has been horseback riding. I took this up at the start of COVID when my school had been put on pause. So, between working shifts, I was at home enjoying the outside. Rebecca Pierce Editor A community can’t thrive without reli­ able local news and information. In Barry County, where we are fortunate to have a locally owned news operation dedicated to serving the community, we see what’s missing all around us: Residents to the west and east and south have no substantive news about local gov­ ernments, school boards, courts and com­ munity issues - and the list of what’s missed there goes on and on. Many economists call journalism “a public good” because the information in news stories can help residents make informed decisions that can affect their quality of life. I was at a local meeting several months ago and was introduced to a man I had never met, but he knew me Ml because I had been the editor of another newspaper in Michigan eight years % ago. He repeated my name as if we were old friends, overjoyed by the chance encounter because of a common bond: a newspaper. After years in journalism, I have found that newspapers have a wonderful capacity for bringing people together. There’s something about this particular medium that is personal, yet allows for civil debate and thoughtful analysis. The resident I met that day had sub­ scribed to that newspaper for 35 years, he told me proudly, smiling at the memory. Then his face fell. He looked at me, his expression grave as he informed me that the newspaper we both had known and loved no longer existed. I replied, just as somber as he, that I knew. We both stood silently for a moment, acknowledging that something important was gone. When a newspaper dies, it leaves a void. The communities where this has hap­ pened are called news deserts. A study by Penelope Muse Abernathy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill documented these news deserts. In these places, she found that people tend to be poorer, older and less educated than the average American. According to Abernathy, in the past 15 years, the U.S. has lost 2,100 newspapers. “To date, most of the losses were week­ lies in economically struggling communi­ ties,” Abernathy wrote. “However, two closings in the past year - The Vindicator, a daily in the Ohio city of Youngstown, and, The Sentinel, a weekly in the Maryland suburbs of Washington, D.C. - were espe­ cially notable: “Youngstown, Ohio, became the first city of any size in the country to lose its sole surviving daily newspaper, and the closing of The Sentinel, a small weekly, improbably left the 1 million residents of Maryland’s affluent Montgomery County without a local newspaper.” Many of the country’s 6,700 surviving papers have become what Abernathy referred to as “ghost newspapers” - mere shells of their former selves, with greatly diminished newsrooms and readership. In Michigan, where many “ghost news­ papers” unfortunately can be found, Barry County has developed into a kind of news oasis. Visitors remark upon it: “You’re so lucky,” they exclaim, “to have news about your community.” Lucky isn’t the word for it. It’s a com­ mitment to the community and it’s hard work. In the early days of the Internet, there was this idea everyone was in love with: the dream of the so-called “citizen joumal- ist.” John Q. Citizen was going to rise up and cover three-hour board meetings, ferret out what was happening with the local planning commission, and challenge elect­ ed officials about why they suddenly decid­ ed to talk about public matters in private. With the Internet and access to all kinds of information, some journalists thought, people would participate in the process and take an active role in their community. Guess again. No resident in his or her right mind has any desire to devote their free time to sit­ ting through a three-hour meeting and then writing about it until the wee hours so they can cover something else at 8 the next morning. So who’s paying attention when, as part of a sales pitch, a consultant for a superintendent search plays up the fact that hiring his private company will allow the school board to bypass the state’s Freedom of Information Act laws? Who’s asking how much it’s going to cost taxpayers to hire con­ sultants for big, costly community projects? Who’s asking about a gravel pit proposal or a dam repair project or how grant money will be spent in the schools or the city or the courts? Part of our mission is to hold officials accountable, just as our readers hold us accountable. We are the watchdog. Without that watchdog, some elected officials invariably run amok. It has been said that the role of the reporter is not a career, it’s a calling. And now, because of those ghosts and dead zones, there is no competition, so our staff-generated local news content is exclu­ sive. Residents who support this newspaper know what local government officials and school boards are doing; what police offi­ cers are being dispatched to handle and what sentences are being meted out by the court. And, if they’ve got a complaint about something we’ve published, or they have an idea for a story, they know they can call and talk to us and we’ll listen and respond. Our news staff is as busy as ever, and one of the key reasons is the dedication of this locally-owned company to this com­ munity. This year’s voluntary pay program will be starting soon - and it will be more important than ever. That’s why, when some people say they don’t “do” print, it’s an indication that they truly don’t understand the market. No community newspaper should be considered just part of an overall “media buy” menu anymore. No matter the device - newspaper and print, computer screen, handheld device, cellphone— all are just tools. Content is the key. And community is the core. Newspapers shouldn’t compete with social media — that’s a totally different tool. Like everyone else, our newspaper uses the Internet in very targeted ways. We recently launched a new website and now offer our subscribers special access to The Banner online. (Check it out at hastingsbanner.com.) The world has changed and, as a result, the newspaper and this organization repre­ sent something far more precious to the health and well-being of the community. Don’t “do” print? In Barry County, with our dedication to local news coverage, that’s like saying don’t “do” breathing. It’s your community. If you care about it, support it. The Hastings BcUUlCl? Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 News and press releases: news@J-adgraphics.com 'Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com Frederic Jacobs Publisher & CEO Hank Schuuring CFO • NEWSROOM • Rebecca Pierce (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer (Sports Editor) Sophie Bates Greg Chandler Luke Froncheck Taylor Owens • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Mike Gilmore Ty Greenfield Jennie Yonker Subscription Rates: $52 per year in Barry County $60 per year in adjoining counties $65 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box 188 Hastings, Ml 49058-0188 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, Ml 49058 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 17, 2020 — Page 5 GUEST COMMENTARY Collaborative efforts will result in transparent plan to deal with COVID-19 State Rep. Julie Calley For the past six months, I have heard from more concerned residents than ever before. They worry about not having a job, about educating their children, about gaining access to a family member in a long-term care facil­ ity, about catching up on preventative medical care - and, yes, they worry about protecting their loved ones from COVID-19. People’s lives have been flipped upside down by this virus, and the state’s response has affected the fundamental rights of all our residents. That’s why it’s so important for the voices of people throughout our state to be considered and for fact-based decisions to be made transparently, guided by data and doc­ tors. But that’s not how things have transpired. For months, the state of Michigan has been under repeated declarations of emergency, granting elongated and singular authority to one person. Regardless of how effective the governor’s Executive Orders turn out to be, her inconsistencies and ambiguities have undoubtedly made dealing with COVID-19 harder than necessary for Michigan families. Protecting public health is important; so is based decisions that allow all Michiganders to resume their lives safely and sensibly. This week, Gov. Whitmer stated that we are in the “relatively early phases” of fighting COVID-19. I agree. She has further indicated that the state of emergency may continue until a vaccine is available - even though, based on national polling, a significant number of Americans do not plan to accept the initial round of vaccinations. A century ago, our nation faced a similar threat with influenza. Today, it still exists, albeit in mutated forms. It’s time to accept that COVID-19 is not going away, and we cannot live under a state of emergency forev­ er. Moving forward, the executive and the Legislature must work collaboratively to develop a smarter plan of action for dealing with CO VID-19. We also must improve trans­ parency and continue to arm Michiganders with updated information that they can use to protect themselves. State Rep. Julie Calley, R-Portland, rep­ resents Barry County and a portion of Ionia County in the Michigan House of Representatives. providing transparency and accountability. There’s no reason we can’t do both. It can be accomplished if the legislative and executive branches work together in a collaborative manner, the way our Constitution requires. Increased transparency would benefit everyone. People deserve to know what data is being used to keep businesses closed after more than six months. They deserve to know why most of the nation and two regions in northern Michigan could open gyms safely months ago, but Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said they had to remain closed in the rest of the state until this week. Where are the outbreaks linked to businesses that remain shuttered? This is all information my colleagues in the Legislature and I would weigh publicly if the legislative process were being used to make decisions about opening Michigan safely. The governor and I both swore an oath to our Constitution. We pledged to uphold its virtues, which include the balance of powers. One hundred forty-eight legislators come from all over the state, bringing the voices of the people they serve. By working together and seeking input from medical experts and community leaders, we can we can make fact­ Spectrum Health launches curbside vaccination program In an effort to encourage more Michigan residents to get flu shots, Spectrum Health is launching one of the Midwest’s first curbside vaccination programs. Spectrum Health pilot­ ed the program at select locations and now has more than 40 sites operational across West Michigan. This new curbside service is for all ages (including childhood vaccinations) and includes many immunizations, injections and tests, as well as blood pressure checks. This includes a host of services, from flu vaccines to B12 injections and strep tests. The service also is helpful for patients who have mobility challenges. Participating sites in the area include: Middleville Family Medicine, 490 Edward St., Middleville. Hastings Family Medicine, 1108 W. State St. Suite 3, Hastings. Gun Lake Family Medicine, 12851 W. M-179 Highway, Wayland. Lake Odessa Family Medicine, 4294 Laurel Drive, Lake Odessa. Caledonia Family Medicine and Walk­ in Clinic, 9090 S. Rogers Court, Suite A, Caledonia. Ada Internal Medicine, Pediatrics and Family Medicine, 7128 Fulton St. E, Ada. Ionia Family Medicine and Walk-in Clinic, 2776 S. State Road, Ionia. Byron Center Family Medicine, 7751 Byron Center Avenue SW, Suite A, Byron Center. 68th Street Pediatrics, 1545 68th St. SE, Suite 100, Grand Rapids. Kalamazoo Internal Medicine, 4444 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Suite 200, Kentwood South Pavilion Family Medicine, 80 68th St. SE, Grand Rapids. “We wanted to meet patients where they are most comfortable, and for many, that’s right in their vehicle,” Vice President and Department Chief for Primary Health at Spectrum Health Rima Shah, M.D., said. “There are several benefits to curbside, including no time spent in waiting rooms. We continually remind our patients that whether they choose to see us virtually or in person, we’re here for you and we’re ready for you.” Mary Zimmerman, immunization program specialist at Spectrum Health, said the pro­ gram is meant to help families stay on sched­ ule with vaccinations. Because many medical appointments had to be postponed or canceled during the pandemic, many fell behind on routine care. “There are 16 vaccines available for serious illnesses, all of which are preventable diseas­ es,” Zimmerman said. “In the last two years, we have seen outbreaks in Michigan of mea­ sles, mumps and hepatitis A. We are hoping this new service will ease people’s minds and make it easier to keep up on necessary vacci­ nations.” Appointments may be scheduled online, via My Chart, or by calling the office and request­ ing a curbside visit. The scheduler will inform patients to look for designated parking spaces upon arrival. Patients then call the phone number on the sign, and registration is com­ pleted over the phone. Clinical staff then meet patients at their vehicles, ready to perform the necessary service through the car window. Spectrum Health has already provided hun­ dreds of curbside visits, and most appoint­ ments take less than 10 minutes. Hospital leadership is assessing additional curbside services that could safely be provided, with plans to continue to grow this program. To the editor: My husband joined the Navy Reserves when he was a sophomore in high school. He started his active duty two weeks after gradu­ ation. This was during the Vietnam conflict. He loves this country and was willing to give his life, if necessary, to defend it. He served honorably on the USS. Cony, a Class 1 Destroyer, as a gunner’s mate. Yes, he repaired and shot “big guns,” fortunately he never had to shoot them at anyone. After his discharge, the USS Cony was sent to Vietnam. His friend says that the shots he fired killed people. H couldn’t look them in the eye, but he knew they were dying, or wounded. He continues to have problems with this, even after all these years. It’s a good thing everyone didn’t have bone spurs and no backbone or this country wouldn’t be. Really brave men and women have died for the democracy of our Republic. For Mr. Trump to call any military persons “losers” and “suckers” because they gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country is sacrilegious. Also, showing disrespect for our veterans, who come home with mental or obvious physical injuries, by not wanting them in parades, just makes me angry! In my opinion, Mr. Trump doesn’t care for anyone but himself and his rich friends. If you think he gives a care for us common folks - please think again. Have you ever heard the expression, “If you lie down with dogs you get fleas?” How many of his associates have been indicted for serious crimes? At least seven. If we did these crimes, we would be in prison and there wouldn’t be anyone to pardon us or say we are nice guys, so go easy on them. This vote on Nov. 3 will decide if we want a democracy or what we have now. The cur­ rent administration is doing everything in its power to make it hard for us to vote. We can’t let them! Vote - and vote as early as you can - to save our country from another four years of this administration dividing us with fear and lies. I listened to one of his recent rallies and heard his response to the cry for four more years and it was: “How about 12 more years?” and everyone cheered. Our ancestors came to America to get out from under a monarchy. I, for one, don’t want to return to what so many men and women have fought and died for. Do you? It is my understanding that our Barry County township halls have slots on the out­ side in which we can place a completed ballot, which will drop into a secure locked box. Ilona Hagon Nashville U.S. Sen. Peters has been good for rural Michigan Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per per­ son per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. To the editor: If you’re like me and many others, you want Legislatures where things actually get done. We need politicians who care about solving issues and moving us forward. Stagnation and backsliding will not improve the lives of Americans. I believe U.S. Sen. Gary Peters, D-Michigan, is one politician who has worked hard for Michiganders, espe­ cially for those of us in rural communities. He was recognized as the 12^ most bipar­ tisan senator, and third most bipartisan Democrat by the non-partisan Lugar Center and McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown University for his work in 2019. But what has he done? He’s working hard to even the playing field for Michigan’s cherry growers, who are los­ ing out on recent trade deals that allow Turkey to flood the market with their cherry products. He’s fighting this fight for other agricultural producers in our state, too. He sees what rural Michigan needs: Affordable access to broadband for small businesses, families with school children, farmers who rely on new technologies to manage their crops and livestock. Broadband access is to the 21st Century what access to electricity was to the 20th Century with the 1936 Rural Electrification Act. We all need it! Even with broadband, rural Michigan still needs a reliable U.S. Postal Service. Need to have your prescription medicines delivered? Seeds for planting or baby chicks delivered by mail? You certainly don’t need weeks-long delays. Peters has been on the forefront of investigations into the recent undermining of our postal system by a postmaster general who has financial ties to private competitors totheUSPS. He was instrumental in getting the Senate to pass a bipartisan bill, “Great American Outdoors Act,” that will permanently and fully fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund, protecting much of Michigan’s outdoor recreation-based economy. These particular topics touch on a few of the issues he has been actively working to resolve. I’m voting for someone who has proven he will work hard for rural Michigan. Please join me. Elspeth Inglis Barry Township BARRY COUNTY HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE, MEDICATION COLLECTION, AND *FREE TIRE DROP-OFF! Saturday, September 21,2019 from 9:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m. Barry County Fairgrounds, 1350 N. M-37 Hwy. Household Hazardous Waste Including aqueous acids and bases; oil-based paints; reactives; solvents; aerosol cans; automotive liquids; pesticides (liquids and solids); automotive batteries; alkaline, nickel-cadmium and/or silver oxide batteries; liquid cleaners; heavy metal solutions; mercury-containing articles; ■ motor oil. Limit d 10 gglfanspefvdw We Cannot Accept: Asbestos; electronics, latex paint (when dry it can go to the landfill); propane tanks, commercially generated waste; radioactive material; explosives; unknown wastes; console and projection televisions; speakers in wooden cases; tires heavily caked with dirt. Medications need to be in their original containers with the name of the drug clearly labeled. Cross out any personal information on the containers. Help keep your home, environment and community safe. DISPOSE OF PRESCRIPTION DRUGS AND MEDICATIONS SAFELY ELECTRONICS NOT Don't pour paint, solvent, medicine, automotive oil or chemicals down the drain or dump them in the trash where they may end up in our drinking water and lakes! ACCEPTED Tire Drop-Off Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads Vote to protect our democracy and honor our military FREE thanks to to a grant from cGlc MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT QF ENVIRONMENT, GREAT IAKES. AND ENERGY *This is a ONE TIME ONLY free tire-drop off event LIMIT OF 10 TIRES PER CAR • HOUSEHOLD TIRES ONLY (NO BUSINESS TIRES) First come, first serve until all trailers are full Questions? Please call (269) 798-4107 Sponsored by the Barry County Solid Waste Oversight Committee with thanks to the Barry County Fair Board, Waste Management. Barry-Eaton District Health Department, Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force, Sheriff's Dept., City of Hastings Police Dept, and Local Pharmacies �Page 6 — Thursday, September 17, 2020 — The Hastings Banner TK schools hire consultant for superintendent search Greg Chandler Staff writer The Thomapple Kellogg school board will retain an executive search consultant to assist in the district’s search for a new superinten­ dent. The board approved the hiring of Michigan Leadership Institute to coordinate the search for a replacement for retiring superintendent Rob Blitchok, during a virtual meeting Monday. The district will spend $6,200 to retain MLI’s services, as well as up to an additional $1,000 in direct expenses. TK schools had used MLI in its last super­ intendent search, which resulted in the hiring of Blitchok, then an assistant superintendent with the district, to replace former superin­ tendent Tom Enslen in April 2018. Blitchok announced earlier this month his intention to retire, effective Sept. 30. MLI regional president Dave Killips out­ lined a search timetable for the district at a special meeting on Sept. 9 that could result in TK hiring a new superintendent by late November. The process includes a series of focus group sessions to help the district put together a profile of its ideal candidate, get­ ting the position opening on various job search boards and having a closing date for applications of Oct. 23. Candidates will sub­ mit applications for the position through MLI and not with the district, Killips said at that meeting. New board president David Smith spoke with Killips earlier on Tuesday and said the district has some flexibility in its timetable. “If we feel at any point in time that things aren’t coming together the way we want them to, we have latitude to change the pace of the search, so we aren’t so locked into the pace that’s provided, that we can’t change if we need to,” Smith said. “It does give us the framework that we can at least start from and gives us something we can work with.” In addition to MLI’s past experience with TK schools, the firm recently worked with Lakewood Public Schools in their search for a new superintendent, which resulted in the hiring of Steven Skalka to fill that position over the summer. The board Monday presented Blitchok with a certificate thanking him for his six years of service with the district, starting with his work as assistant superintendent of business, finance, human resources, trans­ portation, facilities and food service. “We appreciate your leadership and com­ mitment to the students, staff and community of TK schools,” Smith said. “Thank you for always putting the students first and for working so well with the board and staff. Thank you for making a difference at TK schools.” Blitchok thanked the board and communi­ ty for their support during his tenure. “I just want to say thank you to the board for their amazing support of me in the last six-plus years. I greatly appreciate it,” he said. “I want to say thank you to our (admin­ istration) team, to our staff, which both are second to none, and I want to thank the com­ munity for their tremendous support of TK schools. I will deeply miss TK.” MDHHS to begin posting school outbreak info today; includes school names and case numbers Wearing a mask that covers the mouth and nose, social distancing, frequent hand wash­ ing (using soap for 20 seconds or hand sani­ tizer) and following capacity restrictions on social gatherings are some of the most effec­ tive ways to slow the spread of CO VID-19. Michiganders who are sick or have symp- toms can get tested at numerous testing sites across the state. Information around this outbreak is chang­ ing rapidly. The latest information is available at michigan.gov/coronavirus and cdc.gov/ coronavirus. In an effort to provide accurate and timely information about COVID-19 in Michigan schools, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services will begin reporting out­ break information by school building this week. Data on COVID-19 outbreaks is being col­ lected from all 45 local health departments across the state each week. A COVID-19 outbreak is defined as two or more cases with a link by place and time indicating a shared exposure outside of a household. “Parents and students should know that if their school is listed, their local health depart­ ment and school are already investigating. Based on that investigation, people are con­ tacted individually if they were possibly exposed to COVID-19 at school,” Chief Medical Executive and Chief Deputy for Health Dr. Joneigh Khaldun said. “Michigan schools are working hard to maintain a safe environment while also providing quality education.” The information being posted on the web­ site at 3 p.m. each Monday will include K-12, college and university school name, address, number of cases and if the cases involved staff, students or both. Students or staff exposed to COVID-19 outside the school building, and who are not thought to have spread the virus in the school due to quaran­ tine or self-isolation, are not included in the data. Many factors, including the lack of ability to conduct effective contact tracing in certain settings, may result in underreporting of out­ breaks. This information does not provide a complete picture of school outbreaks in Michigan and the absence of identified out­ breaks in a school does not mean it is not experiencing an outbreak. Luke Froncheck Staff Writer The Barry County Great Start Readiness Program is officially under new leadership. Michelle Williamson, CEO of Community Action Agency of Southcentral Michigan, and Erika Burkhardt, assistant superintendent of Calhoun Intermediate School District, formal­ ly announce their management of the program earlier this month. Through the program, qualifying low-in­ come families have access to free pre-school services this fall. This partnership links Community Action’s 50 years of experience and GSRP’s program delivery network for the critical work of teaching pre-school-age children with enrich­ ment programs in Barry County, according to Williamson and Burkhardt. Educators are coordinating seven class­ rooms to provide pre-school education to about 112 students ages 4 and up. To qualify, the annual income for a family of four would be less than $65,000. “High-quality preschool experiences not only build essential developmental skills in young children, but they have significant short- and long-term effects on successful educational experiences, health benefits, as well as overall social and emotional well-be- ing,” Burkhardt said. Transportation also is available, Williamson said, but there are additional safety compo­ nents that families and children will need to follow. “The Great Start Readiness Program is an excellent 4-year-old pre-school opportunity, designed to best support a child’s first school experience in a safe, encouraging environ­ ment,” she added. Due to the transition, Williamson said details such as programming and service delivery still need to be resolved to ensure quality pre-school experiences. “We are pleased to take on this program­ ming for families and children in need across Barry County,” Williamson said. “Families in Delton and Hastings will now have reliable opportunities for their young children to learn and thrive through Great Start.” Teachers are structuring their classrooms to offer a blend of virtual, hybrid and in-person learning. Face-to-face instruction is scheduled to begin Nov. 16 and will continue through June. Find applications for eligible Barry County parents and legal guardians who are interested in enrolling in the program at www.greatstartbarry.org. Wendell D. Armour Jean Helen Aki James Eatherton II GSRP educators prepare for a new year Prairieville Township purchases new parking lot light Luke Froncheck Staff Writer The Prairieville Township parking lot is about to get brighter. Clerk Rod Goebel addressed the Prairieville Township Board of Trustees about purchasing a new light for their parking lot during a reg­ ular meeting held in-person last Wednesday. Trustee Richard Van Niman got quotes for a new light from Menards. Goebel said he hoped to brighten up the parking lot for the new recycling program scheduled for the second and fourth Friday of each month from 4 to 7 p.mf The new bulb would cost the township $79, Goebel said. In other business, the board: -Excused treasurer Judy Pence from the meeting due to an illness. -Approved a request from a township resi­ dent to plant a tree near a newly purchased grave plot. -Heard a monthly update from Prairieville Township Fire Department representative Robert Pence. He said the department had 29 calls for service in August. -Paid the $20,508 in monthly bills. -Authorized new signature cards for town­ ship bank accounts. Worship Together ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of Who Jesus Is To The World Around Us”. 2635 N. M-43 Hwy., P.O. Box 8, ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. 269-945-4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip. Mass 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Mass 8 and 11 a.m. Sunday. 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. Hastings. Telephone 269-945­ 9121. com. Email hastfmc@gmail. Website: www.hastings ffeemethodist.com. Pastor Brian Student Teed, Ministries Director, Emma Miller, Worship Director, Martha Stoetzel. Sunday Morning Worship: 9am and 10:30 a.m. beginning June 21 until further notice. Due to the current health crisis, our nurseiy is temporarily closed and we are temporarily suspending all Children’s ministries. Our church sanctuary is set up for social distancing. We do not HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH PLEAS ANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30-8 p.m., Kids 4 Truth (Children Kindergarten-5th Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information. 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel-chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 765, (comer of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11:30am, Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 to 7:30 pm. 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 10 a.m. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH require wearing masks, but do encourage it, especially while walking through the building before and after services. Please keep your family together during the worship service. We are a multi-generational church family and understand that while this could mean outbursts or potty­ breaks, we are not inconvenienced by your little one. In an effort to help you, we are providing weekly activity bags for each child. These bags are to be taken home or disposed of after each CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616-690-8609. use. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Fiberglass AWnUMBESMSIff Produc,s 1351 North M-43 Hwy. 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings 1301 W. Green St. Hastings, Ml 49058. Hastings 945-4700 945-9541 945-9554 Wendell D. Armour, age 80, of Hastings, passed away on September 10,2020. Wendell was bom on June 4, 1940 in Hastings, the son of Wayne and Margaret (Reid) Armour. He was a 1959 graduate of Hastings High School. On July 3, 1959, Wendell married Gloria Martz, and they enjoyed 61 years together. Wendell was in police work for many years with the Hastings City Police, Barry County Sheriff Department, and he was the youngest Chief of Police at the time in Nashville. In 1969, he began working for Bechtel Corporation as a Safety Engineer for a nuclear power plant in Pennsylvania. He worked for this company until his retirement in 1986. Wendell loved auction sales, antique sales, horse sales, and old tractors. He met many interesting people at these auctions from different parts of the country. He enjoyed camping, traveling, crafts, but most of all, he loved his family getting together, holidays, birthdays, picnics, laughter and watching the grandkids play. He enjoyed working in a garden, planting flowers and watching wildlife. Wendell is preceded in death by his parents Wayne and Margaret Armour, daughter Angie Armour, and grandsons Brady Armour and David R. Scott. He is survived by his wife Gloria; his children, Debbie (Dan) Scott, Wendell “Butch” (Brenda) Armour, Jr., Gary (Shelly) Armour, Terry (Carrie) Armour; grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandson, and brother, Marvin (Pat) Armour. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan, 1169 Oak Valley Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48108 or https:// www.nkfm .org/get-involved/giving. No services are planned at this time. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome .net. Jean Helen (Ward) Aki, age 62, of Hastings, passed away on September 10, 2020. Jean was bom on July 4, 1958 in Grand Rapids, the daughter of James Richard and Lucena Mae (Bowerman) Ward. She was a 1976 graduate of Alma High School, and a 1983 graduate of Saginaw Valley, Baylor University in 1985, and the School of International Business in 1986. On July 5, 1986, Jean married Andre Aki, and they enjoyed 32 years together until his death on July 20,2018. Jean worked as an auditor for Hastings City Bank from 1998 until 2010. She was the director of schools in Indonesia from 1987 to 1996. She loved puzzles, doing math equations, especially calculus. She used to travel and loved going to the movies. Her favorite band was Queen, and always went thrift store shopping for gaudies. Jean was a member of the United Methodist Church of Caledonia. Jean was preceded in death by her parents, James and Lucena Mae (Bowerman) Ward; husband, Andre Aki, and brother-in-law, Jerry Goodman. She is survived by her son, Jonathan Aki of Indianapolis, IN; son, Benyamin Aki of Hastings; sister, Marjorie (Bob) Williams; brother, James (Deanna) Ward; sister, Patricia Goodman; sister, Joyce (Gary) Babic; brother, Paul (Ellen) Ward; sister, June (Dave) Bowman, and numerous nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Legacy at the Oaks, 706 North Avenue, Battle Creek, MI 49017 or Caledonia Methodist Church Music Program, 250 Vine St SE, Caledonia, MI 49316, or Glenn Arbor Hospice, 5470 Glenn Cross Rd, Battle Creek, MI 49015. A visitation was held on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2020 at Girrbach Funeral Home, 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 with a graveside service that followed at Riverside Cemetery, 1003 W. State Rd; Hastings, MI 49058. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome .net. James “Jimmy” Eatherton II, age 43, of Battle Creek, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2020 at Bronson Battle Creek. He was born February 17, 1977 in Battle Creek, the son of James and Nancy (Chilton) Eatherton I. Jimmy married Janine Brust on August 12, 2000 in Battle Creek. He was currently employed by Smitty’s Sport Shop for five plus years. He was an avid outdoorsman that enjoyed hunting, fishing, mushrooming, and camping. Jimmy loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He was a Detroit Tigers fan and in his earlier years NASCAR. Jimmy was an honest man that had a huge heart and a great sense of humor. He is survived by his wife, Janine Eatherton; children, Jonathan (Shannon) Qualls, Markee (Nick) Stephens, Chelsea (John) Eatherton and Codey Eatherton; grandchildren, Brenden, Cameron, Danielle, Lillianna, Marianna, Kaden, Gabe, Christian, Colton, Kinsleigh, Brycetyn, and Paisley; sisters, Kim (Bill) Mix and Sherry Eatherton; brother, Jon Chilton. He was preceded in death by his parents and uncle, Michael Eatherton. Funeral services have taken place. Burial was held at Bedford Cemetery in Bedford Township, ML Arrangements by the Bachman Hebble Funeral Service. (269)965­ 5145 www.bachmanhebble .com PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 17, 2020 — Page 7 Fun with gelatin Dr. Universe: How are gummies made? Hayden, 11, Webb City, Mo. Dear Hayden, Gummies can come in all different shapes and flavors. Maybe you’ve had gummy worms, gummy bears or peach rings. It turns out, gummies require just a few simple ingredients. That’s what I learned from my friend Connie Remsberg, a phar­ macist at Washington State University. She said making gummies requires a little gelatin, water, a mold, and some help from a grown-up. If you want to make gummies at home, you can warm up about one-half cup of water on the stove. Add a 3-ounce package of flavored gelatin (which contains sugar). Then add 1 tablespoon of unflavored gela­ tin. Mix it all together until it is dissolved and ready to come off the stovetop. It’s very important to ask a grown up for help and to be super careful when working around hot surfaces. A good scientist — or gummy maker — always puts safety first. The gelatin is a made up of things called proteins and peptides. They come from animal bones or cartilage. When you dis­ solve gelatin in water, the tiny proteins act kind of like spaghetti and get all tangled up together. Between the tangles is space to hold sugar and water. Next, you will need something to shape your gummies. A silicone mold is handy because it won’t melt when yon pour in the warm mixture. Some stores sell molds with shapes like little bears built right in. Be sure to spray the silicone mold with non­ stick cooking spray before filling in the shapes. If you don’t haye a silicone mold, you can spray the bottom of a metal pan and pour the mix into a thin layer. Later, you can use cookie cutters to cut different shapes from the gummy slab. If you have some extra plastic straws laying around, you can follow these instructions to make gummy worms. After you have your mix in the mold, put it in the fridge until the gummies form. Oh, and if you want to make a vegan version of gummies, you might use agar powder, which comes from seaweed and works as an alternative to gelatin. Remsberg is curious about compounding — or how pharmacists can combine differ­ ent ingredients together to create a medica­ tion that’s just right for a patient. Sometimes pharmacists will create gum­ mies that contain a person’s medicine to make it easier to take, she said. Gummy vitamins are just one example. The human body needs 13 different vitamins, so some people will take a vitamin gummy in addi­ tion to eating fruits and vegetables. One other fun way to experiment with gummy bears — even the kind you buy from the store — is to soak them in differ­ ent liquids, or solutions, such as water, saltwater, vinegar, or bubbly soda water. Let them sit for a few hours, or overnight, and observe what happens. Do they shrink? Get bigger? Explode? OK, spoiler alert, they won’t explode. But tell us what you discover and why you think it all happened at Dr.Universe@wsu. edu. Dr. Universe Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University's resident scientist and writer at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu or visit her website, askdruniverse .com. LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENT’S ESTATE FILE NO. 20-28605-DE Estate of Nadine L. Speas, deceased. Date of birth: 4/21/1932. TO ALL CREDITORS: The decedent, Nandine L. Speas, died 4/26/2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Jeffrey P. Speas, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings, Ml and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 9-15-2020 Jeffrey P. Speas 4173 Brown Road, Lake Odessa, Ml 48849 (269)908-1864 147776 NOTICE TO CREDITORS TRUST ESTATE TO ALL CREDITORS: The Settlor, Paul O. Carlson, (date of birth) Aug. 21, 1930, who lived at 15560 Noonan Rd., Hickory Corners, Michigan, died Aug. 12,2020. There is no personal representative of the settlor’s estate to whom Letters of Administration have been issued. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the Paul O. Carlson and Mary Lou Carlson Revocable Trust dated, April 29,2019 as amended, will be forever banned unless presented to Dan P. Carlson, Successor Trustee, within four months after the date of publication. Notice is further given that the Trust will thereafter be assigned and distributed to the persons entitled to it. Date: September 2, 2020 Daniel P. Carlson Successor Trustee 15560 Noonan Rd. Hickory Corners, Ml 49060 (629)671-5308 147407 NOTICE Omer Ergun Meral has filed for divorce, Case Number 2020-488-DO, from Linda Christine Meral on August 3, 2020 in the Barry County Circuit Court. She must file a response within 28 days from the date of this posting or a default judgment of Divorce may be filed against her. 147491 SYNOPSIS Hastings Charter Township Regular Meeting September 8,2020 Meeting called to order at 7:00 p.m. All board members present, Approved all consent agenda items 2020 Millage request approved, Form L-4029 Resolution for establishing an absentee counting board approved Approved payment of bills Dept, reports received and put on file Motion to adjourn 7:16 pm Respectfully submitted, Anita S. Mennell - Clerk Attested to by Jim Brown - Supervisor Robert Bryans to celebrate 90th birthday Mary Ann Wilcox to celebrate 90th birthday Van Aukens to celebrate 50th wedding anniversary Robert Bryans will celebrate his 90th birthday on September 24, 2020. Bob will celebrate his birthday fishing in the Upper Peninsula with his sons, Bob and Bill. Mary Ann Wilcox will be celebrating her 90th birthday this month, on September 27, 2020. We are asking friends and family to send her birthday wishes and blessings by having a card shower. Please send cards to 823 Wintergreen Dr., Hastings, MI 49058. Due to COVID, there will only be a small gathering on September 20, 2020. On June 27, 1970, Tina Burgess and Frank Van Auken were married. June 27, 2020, they celebrated 50 years of marriage. After 50 years of love and a pandemic, they can get through anything. SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Representative payee portal gets update Vonda Van Til Public Affairs Specialist Millions of Americans who get monthly Social Security or Supplemental Security Income benefits need help managing their money and may need a representative payee. A representative payee is a person or an organization we appoint to receive the Social Security or SSI benefits for beneficiaries who can’t manage or direct the management of their benefits. Representative payees must know the beneficiary’s needs to decide the best use of benefits for care and well-being. To help with this responsibility, representative payees may now get, save, email and print a benefit verification letter for the person they represent using their own My Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount. There is no need to visit or call a field office. Savannah Marie Miller, Hastings and Andrew Keagan Taylor, Hastings Anthony Joseph Lukas, Hastings and Kimberly EllesLJunglas^ Hastings Olivia Lynn Blocher, Middleville and Jarod David Kent, Middleville Heidi Ann Sneller, Middleville and Jacob Daniel Hansen, Freeport Henry Dale Hook, Delton and Brenda Kay Goodenough, Delton Emily Anne Garrett, Hickory Comers and Jonathan Joseph Kidd, Hickory Corners Jacob Paul McGavin, Middleville and Stacia Marie Bos, Middleville Tyler Jon Straube, Hastings and Samantha Michelle Sherk, Hastings Ashley Marie Kuch, Round Rock, TX and Turner Louis Frederick, Round Rock, TX Anthony Dean-Melton Denney, Hastings and Heather Jean Kennedy, Hastings Many representative payees also are responsible for completing an annual form to account for the benefit payments received. To complete this process, representative payees can either fill out the form and return it to Social Security or go online at ssa.gov/ myaccount/rep-payee.html to file the report. It is important to know that state protection and advocacy agency may contact the representative payee to review the receipts and records of income and expenses. Visit ssa.gov/payee if you have questions about representative payees. Vonda Van Til is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her c!o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525, or via email to vonda.VanTil@ssa.gov. Julie Ann Coon last ‘Bloom, laPougo & “Harbor Springs by Moda 30s Cotton Prints LLC Reiki Master Practitioner (Putting you back “in balance” 1 Plannd Prints $5.99yd. & up SIDEWALK SALE INSIDE 147731 SEPT. 18TH & 19TH Scheduled for Saturday, October 3 STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL CIRCUIT - FAMILY DIVISION BARRY COUNTY PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING FOR NAME CHANGE CASE NO. AND JUDGE 20-28594-NC WILLIAM M. DOHERTY P41960 COURT ADDRESS 206 W. COURT STREET, SUITE 302, HASTINGS, Ml 49058 COURT TELEPHONE NO.: 269-945-1390 In the matter of JoAnn Dawn Werkema. TO ALL PERSONS, including whose address is unkown and whose interest in the matter may be barred or affected by the following: TAKE NOTICE: A hearing will be held on Wednesday, 9/23/2020 @ 2:00 PM at 206 W. Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 before Judge William M. Doherty to change the name of JoAnn Dawn Werkema to JoAnn Dawn Wolfe. Call anv time to place your Hastings Banner classified ad 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 '0“ Pray,for cur Nation Contact me today for details. Check out my website for NEW HOURS of Operation QUESTIONS: ASK US... julieanncoon.com • 269.908.9227 Gifts for Body & Soul 118 N. Michigan Ave., Hastings SEASONAL HELP The Barry County Road Commission is hiring for temporary seasonal general laborer positions. Starting hourly pay range will be $12-$13 per hour, no benefits. Applicant must be at least 18 years of age, have a valid Driver’s License, and be able to pass a drug test. Applications can be picked up at the Barry County Road Commission office located at 1725 West M-43 Highway, Hastings between 6 AM - 4 PM, or on our website at WWW.barrycrc.org. The Barry County Road Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 147455 218 E. State St., Hastings • 945-9673 . OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm ■I ^ulst Cleaners ^ick-Up Station]. PERMANENT METAL ROOFING American Metal Roofs TO SHOWCASE A BEAUTIFUL AMERICAN METAL ROOF! f SHOWCASE HOME DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE! NOT A FREE ROOF OFFER AmericanMetalRoofs.com �Page 8 — Thursday, September 17, 2020 — The Hastings Banner HOUSING, continued from page 1 Workers finish attaching straps to the roof of the modular house in Hastings. A large crane was used to move two halves of the new modular house onto its concrete foundation so the sections could be attached. Commodore Houses of Indiana Service Manager Don Mullins and Hastings real estate agent Tracy Baker watched as the house was put together Tuesday. them to states as far away as Colorado. “This a great affordable housing option,” Mullins said. Construction is not complete on the unit, he added. Stairs and a garage have to be built on-site. “All that work we did is finally here,” real estate agent Tracy Baker said. She is tasked with selling the houses as they become avail­ able. MSHDA requires that individuals purchas­ ing the houses have annual incomes between $85,600 and $113,280. Home ownership also allows young people to build their assets that can better prepare them for the future, Gettys said. Gettys was joined by Baker, former Barry County Chamber of Commerce Director Travis Alden and the city’s community devel­ opment director Dan King in applying for the MSHDA grant. However, the group had only a week to fill A construction worker guides part of the structure using a rope. To lift the structure, a large hook had belts that were wrapped around both halves of the house while it was being lifted. out the application before traveling to Lansing Aug. 8 last year to interview with MSHDA staff and make the case for why Barry County should be one of TO Michigan cities to pilot the housing program. Within 24 hours, group members received a congratulatory call from MSHDA staff so they could announce that Barry County would help pilot the program. Baker said that Hastings was one of 10 communities - along with Dowagiac, Coldwater, Kalamazoo, Muskegon, Big Rapids, Beaverton, Grayling, Harrisville and Ishpeming — to be awarded the grant. People are ready to walk through and potentially purchase the house as soon as construction is complete, Baker said. “It’s going to be great,” Hastings City Manager Jerry Czarnecki said. “I’ve been with the city for 3 *4 years, and the one thing I’ve heard is that there is a need for housing. This will be a family home. “There are a lot of good things going on that will draw people to Hastings. These homes give them somewhere to move into.” Construction workers spent about four hours putting the house in place. The front side of the modular house is lowered onto a concrete foundation. Water ’s Edge Financial LLC Jeffrey A. Keessen, AIF® (269) 948-9969 525 W. Apple St. Hastings, MI 49058 www.watersedgefinancial.com Taking care of what's important to you so that you can focus on what matters most to you Jeffrey A. Keessen AIF® Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC Karen Hayward Administrative Assistant Construction on the modular house took about 30 minutes after the crane was set up. �Hastings Public Library 227 E State Street Hastings Ml 49058 T7>The Hastings OANNER The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 17, 2020 — Page 9 SPORTS SECTION Thursday, September 17, 2020 Saxons kick things off against Parma Western Friday Brett Bremer Sports Editor It has been nearly 11 months since the Saxons walked off the turf inside Baum Stadium at Johnson Field as winners over Charlotte on Senior Night to conclude the 2019 varsity football season. Hastings varsity football team will finally take to the turf again Friday as it plays host to Parma Western in the first of six regular sea­ son games of the 2020 season. Saxon head coach Jamie Murphy, who is entering his seventh year as the varsity head coach and 25th season with the Saxon pro­ gram, said the ballgame with the Panthers will tell his Saxons a lot about who they are and what their ability to play together is. Parma Western comes into the season with a four-game winning streak against the Saxons, and Murphy has the Panthers listed as one of the top teams in the conference this fall along with Jackson Lumen Christi and Coldwater. The Saxons will get to face all three of those teams after having ballgames with Thornapple Kellogg, Harper Creek and Marshall cancelled as the state and the Michigan High School Athletic Association worked out details of just how a football sea­ son could proceed during a global pandemic. Murphy is anxious for his guys to get to know each other on the football field. “We have been separated for such a long stretch that we haven’t created a team identity yet. That will be key in the first two weeks of the season,” Murphy said. The Saxons go on the road to Jackson to play the Lumen Christi Titans in week two of the season (Sept. 25). The Titans won three consecutive Division 6 State Championships before finishing second in the state in Division 7 a year ago. “Our focus on defense this offseason will be important to our success,” Murphy said. “Our defensive line is a little more stout and they have been working with coach Slaughter on reading and getting off blocks.” He added that senior leadership will pull his team where it needs to go. The senior lead­ ers on the team include defensive linemen Evan Eastman and Kyler Madden, linebacker Corbin Ulrich and defensive back Keegan Olson. All four of those guys, like many of the Saxons, will have positions on both sides of the ball. Olson is one of the top returning run­ ning backs for the program. Ulrich and Madden will see time on the offensive line, with Eastman at tight end once again. Coach Murphy said he is looking forward to good contributions from junior offensive linemen Jackson Dubois and Glen McFarlan, junior quarterback Mason Denton and junior running back Victor Ramirez. The Saxons have won four ballgames in each of the past two seasons, closing each of those campaigns with three-game winning streaks. Evan Eastman Panthers plan ground and pound attack again Brett Bremer Sports Editor Delton Kellogg and Coloma have been two of the most evenly matched varsity football teams in the Southwestern Athletic Conference since its formation in the fall of 2015. A 12-point victory by the Panthers in 2016 has been the most lopsided score in the series between the two teams in the past five sea­ sons. CblUftfa has won the lastTWO meetings between the two teams by a combined ten points. That should make for an exciting season opener for those who get to see it on the new turf on the football field at Delton Kellogg High School Friday. Altered state executive orders brought high school football back to the fall, but with masks on the players under their helmets and a limit of two spectators per participant at the ballgames (in every sport). “We have people coming out of the wood work to volunteer,” Delton Kellogg varsity football coach Ryan Bates said with a chuck­ le. “Everybody in the state is fighting the same thing.” A few Delton Kellogg football players have volunteered for double duty as well, having decided to join the varsity boys’ soccer and cross country teams when football was shut down and temporarily moved to the spring season. Bates said he worked things out with coach Dale Grimes from the cross country program and Alan Mabie from the boys’ soc­ cer program to have a few guys competing in both sports. Bates said his guys will need all the condi­ tioning they can get as they deal with a roster of just 18 varsity football players. The methodical pace of the Panther offense should give all the two-way players a chance to catch their breath a big as well. “The big thing for us is we’re a blue collar group,” Bates said. “Our kids want to work they run on their own. They do the things they need to do to get better.” Gavin Houtkooper is going the other way, the four-year varsity goalkeeper for the DK boys’ soccer team is out to kick with the against NorthPointe Christian Oct. 16 and any family member or friend of the student. Schoolcraft Oct. 23. Student issued tickets can not be sold. Students The Delton Kellogg Athletic Department found to have sold their student issued tickets recently released its rules regarding spectator will no longer be eligible to receive future protocol for events this fall. Each student ath­ tickets. lete will receive two game tickets at least one All spectators must wear a face covering day before a contest These tickets will not be while attending athletic contests at all times. replaced. Spectators will present the ticket at Individuals without a mask will be asked to the gate at home or away contests. Those with leave. No re-entry will be allowed. a school issued ticket will pay the $5 admis­ Spectators will be required to leave the sion fee with exact change. Senipr, SAC, dis- facility upon completion of the contest. There trict passes, etc. will still be honored to cover will be no congregating by exits allowed. If entry fees, but those spectators must have one you are your athlete’s ride, please wait in your of a participant’s two school issued tickets to car. attend. The student issued ticket can be used by PROJECT, continued from page 1 Cole Pape Panther varsity football team this fall. The Panther kickers, quarterback and half backs will have some big strong guys leading the way and protecting them this season. That group on the line is led by senior Cole Pape, juniors Caden Ferris and Alex Whitmore and sophomore Mason Nabozny. Nabozny is back at tight end this season and Pape is slid­ ing out from tackle to take over the tight end spot at the other end of the line in the Panthers’ Wing-T attack. “I met with some of the premier wing-T schools over the winter, talking with coaches at clinics and meetings and meeting up with coaches trying to make our wing-t a better product and one of the things we talked about was trying to deal with edge pressure,” Bates said. Putting the biggest, fastest linemen at TE has proven beneficial to many of the coaches Bates talked too, plus Pape has shown off his fantastic hands as a member of the varsity boys’ basketball team over the years. Behind that line the Panthers have a strong senior trio of quarterback Payton Smoczynksi and half backs Hunter Belew and Bradley Bunch returning. Bates said Smoczynski has done an excellent job of perfecting his skills as a magician this offseason, working to limit the defense from being able to decipher what is going on in the Panthers’ offensive back­ field and getting is precision footwork down. The Panthers’ home game Friday will be the first of three for the Panthers during the regular season, who will be on the road for the next three Fridays when they visit GalesburgAugusta, Lawton and Saugatuck. DK will close out the regular season with home games Rutland Charter Township Board discusses absentee voting, marijuana ordinance Sophie Bates Staff Writer The Rutland Charter Township board dis­ cussed absentee voting and creating a mari­ juana ordinance at its meeting Wednesday evening. Township Clerk Robin Hawthorne said that absentee ballots will be sent out near the end of September. She noted absentee ballot requests have increased from 225 in previ­ ous years to 975 in this election. To apply for an absentee ballot, voters must call the town­ ship or fill out an application in person at the township hall. The board also unanimously approved hiring Rebecca Harvey, a planner who will assist the township in creating a marijuana ordinance. “Rebecca is going to assist and educate us in the drafting of the possible ordinance to allow some marijuana establishments in Rutland in the future should we desire to opt in. She and the attorney will help us to get it right when the time comes,” Hawthorne told The Hastings Banner Monday. The board approved spending up to $8,000 for Harvey’s services, but payment could be less depending on the project’s length and difficulty. At the meeting, Hawthorne argued Harvey will ensure any ordinances are writ­ ten correctly and will save the township money. “There are a lot of ordinances that will need to be rewritten,” Hawthorne said. “We need the experience, we need her.” “I think it would be money well spent,” Township Treasurer Sandy Greenfield said. Harvey will meet with Township Attorney Craig Rolfe, the township board and the planning commission to decide how to pro­ ceed. “There is no timeline at this time for an ordinance to be put in effect,” Hawthorne said. In other business, the board: Approved lowering the fire millage to .75 mills; Trustee Matt Spencer voted no on this issue. Unanimously approved extending a con­ tract with PLM Lake and Land Management from five years to seven. PLM Lake and Land Management maintains Algonquin Lake by conducting weed assessments, keeping exotic plants to the lowest level possible and encouraging natural plant life, among other services. Discussed hiring a new code enforcement officer. Was updated by Barry County Commissioner Jon Smelker that voters will receive an informational flyer detailing the $25 million ballot proposal for a new county jail. Approved paying the township’s bill to Associated Government Services — a com­ pany which handles building inspections for the township — using funds leftover in the budget: $10,000 set aside for the salary of a building official who was never hired and $3,000 for code inspections now conducted by AGS. how it handles its money. Roughly 30 percent of the county’s AA bond rating is reliant on the economy in surrounding areas, he said, “something you have very little control over,” he pointed out. COVID-19 also has an impact, but “obvi­ ously, when we look at Barry County, those (COVID) numbers are very low. You are very conservative. You are financially sound. You have a balanced budget and good reserves. You have good policies in place. You function very well. You do not have a lot of debt for a county.” Hayduk added that “rates are at an all-time low.” “When we first started looking at these projects, they were funding at 4 percent,” he said. “The schedules I provided were 2.5 to 3 percent, so we’re still looking at this conser­ vatively.” But the county may be able to borrow this money for under 2 percent, he said. Chairwoman Heather Wing replied, “We have so many things that need taken care of and we’re happy to do that at a very nice interest rate.” In this transaction, the county will pledge the full faith and credit of the county, as “co-signer’ for the debt.” But, through its revenues, Thornapple Manor will be 100-percent responsible for all debt payments, including through the start-up phase, Thomapple Manor Administrator Don Haney has said. Haney was not able to attend Tuesday’s meeting, but he has said he was anticipating Year 1 and possibly Year 2 with lower debt payments than the following years, “but we will see what the bond structure looks like with the financial advisers as we move through the process with them.” The 50-bed assisted living complex will be located on about 35 acres of county owned property at the comer of M-79 and McKeown Road. The project could begin next spring but possibly as early as this fall, Haney has said. The complex will eventually will create more employment - about 32.3 full-time equivalents, or about 40 jobs on the assisted living side of the operation. Thornapple Manor currently has 161 beds and offers skilled nursing and rehabilitative services. During the conceptualization phase, it was clear “that building the assisted living project would be financially feasible while the inde­ pendent living was not viable at this time,” Haney’s proposal stated. Housing in the county is a need across all income and age levels. But, at this time, the market study indicated that 60 assisted living units and 30 dementia care units are what’s needed. Haney has expressed the hope that this project “provides not just enough cash to cover the debt of this project, but that there’s a surplus and, in over a few years we would be able to could go back and revisit the inde­ pendent living side of things. Maybe with the cash we’ll be able to get that off the ground as well.” The assisted living project will actually be building an infrastructure component, with water and sewer service that would be of suf­ ficient size to handle an independent living campus as well. The project will make Thornapple Manor what he termed a “Continuing Care Retirement Community.” Lions open season with three volleyball victories in a row The Maple Valley varsity volleyball team scored a 3-0 win at Perry to open the Greater Lansing Activities Conference season Tuesday. The Lions bested the Ramblers by the scores of 25-18, 25-23,25-17. Keilyn Carpenter pounded 22 kills for the Lions in the win, adding eight digs as well. Olivia Roush had a team-high 15 digs for the Lions. Setter Trista Medina put up 24 assists in the win while contributing seven digs. Ashlyn Wilkes chipped in six kills for the Lions. The Lions were 2-0 to open their season Saturday at the Zion Christian Tournament. The Lions scored a 25-17, 25-22 win over Martin and a 25-27, 25-20, 15-2 victory over Zion Christian on the day. Carpenter had 24 kills and Wilkes 16 at the tournament. Carpenter also struck six aces with Roush adding four. Wilkes had a teamhigh five blocks. Medina put up 37 assists in the two wins. Roush had a team-high 24 digs, with Carpenter adding 19, Medina ten and Wilkes 12. �Page 10 — Thursday, September 17, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Soccer starts with Vikings scoring win at Valley Brett Bremer Sports Editor It was a tough way for the Maple Valley Lions to open the 2020 varsity boys’ soccer season Wednesday at Fuller Street Field. Wearing masks, with out any substitutes on the bench the Lions were eventually worn down by the visiting Lakewood Vikings in their Greater Lansing Activities Conference contest. While Lakewood controlled the play throughout, the Vikings had just a 2-1 lead at the half before pulling away in the final 40 minutes for an 8-1 victory. Gerrett Feighan and Brody Jackson scored two goals each for the Vikings, and Coby Carter, Caleb Fletcher, Jake Jackson and Alex Russell each found the back of the net once. Drew Marquoit had a pair of assists, and Carter, Fletcher, Brody Jackson, Liam Cavanaugh and Connor Feighan had one assist each. “We started finishing more in the second half, passed the ball around a little bit better in the second half,” Lakewood head coach James LeVeque said. “We were a little more patient with the ball. It was like every time we got into the attacking third in the first half all we wanted to do was take touches to the goal. Every time we got into the attacking third everybody’s touch was vertical and we pushed the ball right into pressure and took away shot opportunities and the ones we got we didn’t finish. “The second half we did a little better job of being patient in the attacking third, waiting for passes, waiting for plays to develop, hit­ ting comers, getting the six and then putting away some shots.” Feighan ripped a shot off the fingertips of Maple Valley goalkeeper Landon Garlinger 9 minutes and 15 seconds into the contest. Brody Jackson scored his first goal of the game 14:02 in, winning a battle with Garlinger for the ball after a long send into the box by the Vikings. Junior Owen Bailey pulled the Lions within a goal with 7:37 to play before the half, head­ ing in a comer kick from teammate Duncan Seume. Fletcher converted a penalty kick for a Lion handball in the box five minutes into the sec­ ond half to put the Vikings back up by two and then they kept adding to their lead while keeping the play in the Lions’ defensive half of the field. “Brody (Jackson) played real well today. Brody is a junior so we expect him to do well. He is sporadic, but he picked up his game today, controlled the ball well and finished a couple of nice shots.” LeVeque said. “Gerrett Feighan, who is a freshman, stepped in and scored two goals early including the first goal of the game, a little icebreaker. He puts him­ self in some good spots, has some pretty good speed, pretty relentless, fights hard for the ball, real quick, like his brother. He did well. “Connor (Reighan) did a pretty good job on the back line for the most part as a center back. He kept them at bay for the most part.” LeVeque said his defense gave up a couple chances it didn’t need to, pushing forward to try and help the offensive attack and missing defensive responsibilities. “They put up a good fight. (Bailey) is good. He is solid, pretty good with the ball. They had three or four guys who had some pretty good speed,” the Viking coach added of the Lions. “Obviously we saw some defects in the second half, but I thought the guys did well,” Lion head coach Andy Roush said. “We got a couple new guys and got them in spots. They have never played soccer and now they’re out there day one. Overall, I thought it was good. The things that hurt us are things we can fix, which is good.” Roush said he saw some moments where he would have rather had his guys trying to con- Maple Valley’s Josiah Hawkins flies in front of Lakewood’s Gavin George to get to the ball during their GLAC match-up at Fuller Street Field in Nashville Wednesday (Sept. 9). (Photo by Brett Bremer) tain attackers rather than pressure them. He was pleased with Garlinger’s efforts in net despite the eight goals against. “I thought our goalie did a great job. He had a lot of spots where he was under pres­ sure,” Roush said. “A lot of stuff was happen­ ing in the box, or one-on-ones, and he made great decisions. I always tell my goalkeepers to make a decision and stick with it, because if you get caught in the middle ground it is going to kill you.” Garlinger spent some time in the net a year Lakewood’s Kaeden Tuitman (15) pushes forward with the ball as Maple Valley defender Ashton Ripley gives chase during their GLAC match at Fuller Street Field in Nashville Wednesday (Sept. 9). (Photo by Bret Bremer) ago for the Lions. There are some inexperienced defenders in front of him growing into their roles as well. Ashton Ripley was a state qualifying cross country runner for the Lions a year ago who is out for soccer instead this fall. He joined the defensive line along with junior Josiah Hawkins. Roush has tasked returning junior Kenny Curtis with being in charge of the defense. The Lion attack was powered mostly by Bailey and Seume, the team’s top returning players who are both juniors. There isn’t a senior on the roster for the Lions this fall. Roush said there is one Lion out sick at the moment. So he is hoping his team has at least one player on the bench most of the season. He is working on finding the best rotations to find places on the field for guys to catch their breath momentarily during games. Lakewood was back in action Saturday scoring a 5-2 win over non-conference rival Ionia. TK gets goal on each end of halftime to best Wildcats Thornapple Kellogg midfielder Nathan Hildabrand fires a shot around Wayland goalkeeper Carson VandenBos during the first half of their OK Gold Conference match on the turf in Middleville Tuesday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Sports Editor After more than 100 minutes of creating changes and coming up empty, the Thornapple Kellogg varsity boys’ soccer team found the net a couple of times Tuesday night to score a 2-0 OK Gold Conference victory over visiting Wayland. The Trojans improved to 2-1 in the OK Gold Conference with the victory over the Wildcats on the turf inside Bob White Stadium. The Trojans opened the conference season with a 6-1 win at Cedar Springs, but then fell 2-0 at Grand Rapids Catholic Central Thursday despite creating a number of scor­ ing chances on the evening. Those chances kept coming fast and furious in the early going against the Wayland boys, but it wasn’t until the 30th minute of play when Thomapple Kellogg midfielder Austin Chivis earned a penalty a couple yards above the top of the 18. Chivis took the restart him­ self and drilled a shot hard and low to the right a four-man Wildcat wall and into the bottom corner of the net. Chivis tallied a second goal 30 seconds into the second half, finishing off a pass from teammate Alexander Harrington for a 2-0 TK lead. “The first half, it was coming,” TK head coach David Wood said. “We played some nice soccer in the first half. We just tried to regroup at halftime and stay positive. We knew that the next goal was very important. We wanted to make sure that they got it. The way that they came out in the second half, they were positive and full of energy. It was definitely the way you want to start a game.” Prior to finding the net with 9 minutes and 14 seconds to go in the first half, Jackson Curtis, Mitchell Comer, Nathan Hildabrand and Chivis held the pressure on the Wildcat Thornapple Kellogg’s Austin Chivis rises over Wayland’s Juan Miguel (14) and Max Snyder (17) to try and get his head on the ball during the first half of their match in Middleville Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) defense with the help of their teammates. It was Terrell Jefferson who raced up the left side and slid a pass into Chivis, putting him into position for the penalty that earned the Trojans’ their first goal. The TK midfield prevented the Wildcats from putting much pressure on the TK defense in the first half, but Kaiden Pratt and his team­ mates in the backend cleaned up nearly every Wayland charge into their end. “We have a really good core group in the middle of the park with Austin and Jackson and with Grant (Woods) in there as well,” Wood said. “It is definitley a solid group in there of talented players. They know what is expected and what is needed, just play it sim- Tigers a point better than DK/TK/HHS girls at first meet Junior Abby Marcukaitis and freshman Sophie Marcukaitis won two individual events each and teamed up with senior Dalace Jousma and sophomore Anna Haywood for a win in the 400-yard freestyle relay in their first meet together for the Delton Kellogg/ Thomapple Kellogg/Hastings varsity girls’ swimming and diving team Tuesday. It wasn’t quite enough for the DK/TK/HHS girls to outscore the host Allegan Tigers in the first swim meet of the season though as the Tigers edged their guests 93-92 in a non-conference dual. The Tigers got off to a g^od start in the pool by putting together the two fastest teams in the 200-yard medley relay. Hayley Staffen, Hannah Antkoviak, Brooke Houser and Ally Brown won that race for their team in 2 min­ utes 0.72 seconds. Staffen won the 50-yard freestyle (25.45 seconds) and the 500-yard freestyle (6:01.87) and Houser took the 100-yard butterfly (1:05.98) for the Tigers. Those two once again teamed with Antkoviak and Brown to win the 200-yard freestyle relay too in 1:48.52. The Trojan foursome took the 400-yard freestyle relay in 4:10.16. Abby Marcukaitis won the 200-yard free­ style in 2:07.52 and the 100-yard freestyle in 56.99. Sophie won the 200-yard individual medley in 2:27.54 and the 100-yard breast­ stroke in 1:15.56. DK/TK/HHS junior Claire Green won the diving competition with a score of 162.90. DK/TK/HHS sophomore Cadence VanOoy was the 100-yard backstroke champion at the meet, touching the wall in 1:15.15. Haywood had a pair of individual run­ ner-up finishes for DK/TK/HHS, placing sec­ ond in the 50 freestyle in 28.18 and second in the 100 butterfly in 1:12.98. DK/TK/HHS also had the third-place finisher in each of those races with Juliann Meeker third in the 50 free (29.56) and Preslee Hall third in the 100 butterfly (1:16.73). Thornapple Kellogg’s Jackson Curtis works to push past Wayland’s Elijah Berghoef towards the goal during the first half of the Trojans’ 2-0 OK Gold Conference win over the Wildcats in Middleville Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) pie and play it hard. We knew that from a soccer standpoint and from from a technical stand point we’d be okay and let the ball work.” Thornapple Kellogg goalkeeper Daniel Beyer did face a big challenge early in the second half - a penalty kick by Wayland’s Elijah Maas. Beyer got an early jump and deflected Beyer’s shot away diving low to his left. A rebound shot flew back towards Beyer’s right and he managed to pick himself off the turf and leap that way to secure that shot as well. “First PK he has come up against (on varsi­ ty) and it was a great save,” Wood said. “It is hard to be in there when you’re a keeper on a PK, but he did a very, very nice job, great save, strong hand and the rebound save as well. To get the rebound was just as quality a save as anything else. To get them both was very impressive. “He is a good goalkeeper. He is talented.” The Trojans are scheduled to visit Ottawa Hills this afternoon and then return to the field in Middleville Tuesday (Sept. 22) to take on South Christian. Saxon second doubles win super tiebreaker to tie Vikes Michell Vann and Cole McKenna secured a tie for the Hastings varsity boys’ tennis team with a super tiebreaker win in their match with Lakewood Tuesday. Vann and McKenna pulled out a 6-4 win in the second set of their match against Lakewood’s Preston Weller and Logan Tefft after the Viking duo had won the opening set 6-3. The Saxon team scored a 12-10 victory in a super tiebreaker in place of a third set. The Saxons and Vikings finished their dual in a 4-4 tie. Hastings got its other three points thanks to forfeit wins at fourth singles and third and fourth doubles. There were two matches that stretched to a super tiebreaker. Lakewood’s Colin Heyl pulled out a 6-4, 4-6, (10-6) win over the Saxons’ Sam Randall at second singles. Lakewood got a 6-1, 6-0 win by Brady Gawne in his first singles match with the Saxons’ Joey McLean. Emil Myers took the third singles win for the Vikings with a 7-5, 6-1 decision over Brandon Darling. Asher Teigeler and Clay Dumond scored a 6-2, 6-1 win for the Vikings over the Saxons’ Heath Hays and Joe Goggins in the first dou­ bles match. The Saxons are currently 0-3 in the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference. They were bested 8-0 by Jackson Lumen Christi Monday after an 8-0 loss to Coldwater last Wednesday. The Titans won all eight flights in straight sets Monday. In the dual with Coldwater last week the Saxons weren’t far from picking up a few team points. The toughest battle of the after­ noon came at first doubles where the Saxon team of Hays and Goggins rallied after a 6-0 loss in the opening set. They took set number two 6-4 over the Cardinal first doubles team of Ryan Sturgeon and Eric Rucker, but then the Coldwater duo pulled out a 10-8 win in a super tiebreaker. The Saxon second doubles team of Vann and McKenna put up a good fight too, but fell 6-3, 6-4 to Coldwater’s Joe Eichom and Grady Brockway. The tightest singles mach was at number three where Coldwater’s Josh Small bested Randall 6-3, 6-2. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 17, 2020 — Page 11 Red Arrows win first meeting of state finalists Lakewood’s Tori Wickerink passes the ball during her team’s match at Lowell High School Thursday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Sports Editor Lakewood senior Aubrey O’Gorman can’t wait for another shot at the Red Arrows. The Division 1 2019 State Runners-up from Lowell bested the Division 2 2019 State Runners-up from Lakewood in the Vikings’ first varsity volleyball contest of the season Thursday at Lowell High School, 25-18, 25-18,25-21. Lowell is scheduled to visit Lakewood High School as part of a quad the Vikings are hosting Oct. 17. “It was interesting, for sure,” O’Gorman said. “We went through three different line­ ups over the course of the game. Sure we struggled, and sure we had our moments where we just didn’t really know what was going on, but I we still put up some good points and we still have some good potential to get back at them Oct. 17. That is the goal.” Not only was Thursday’s match-up match the first of the season for the Lakewood ladies, but the Vikings had just one day of practice inside before the contest. Lowell crossed Michigan Economic Recovery Council Region lines to to avoid Michigan Safe Start restrictions so it could play three matches in Traverse City last week - besting Traverse City Central, Traverse City West and Grand Haven in three sets each. The first day teams were able to compete in regions outside of the Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Michigan was Wednesday, Sept. 9. That start date announcement from the MHSAA followed Executive Order 2020­ 176 which was signed by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer Sept. 3. “We were excited, obviously,” O’Gorman said of last week’s news that competition could begin. “Our group chat kind of popped off and we were super excited. We know that it is a season where we’re going to have to put in work and we’re going to have to grind, but we are going to be there come November.” Teams were not even allowed to practice inside in this part of the state before that order was signed. Players, coaches and spectators (which are limited to two per participant in Regions 1-5 and 7 of the state) all must wear masks while in the gym. Lakewood opened practice in August on the sand courts at the Lake Odessa Fairgrounds and moved to a sport court outside of Lakewood Middle Lakewood sophomore defensive specialist Alli Pickard passes a Lowell serve during the Vikings’ season opening match at Lowell High School Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) School for the final few practices of the pre­ season. Both the Lakewood and Lowell teams were also without a key part of their rotation Thursday as the Vikings missed senior Sophie Duits and the Red Arrows were without tal­ ented sophomore middle Aubriegh Oswald. There was still plenty of talent on the court though, including Lowell’s all-state senior outside hitter Jenna Reitsma and all-state senior setter Sophie Powell, Lakewood’s all­ state sisters Aubrey and Maradith O’Gorman and the Vikings’ all-state sophomore setter Skylar Bump. “I liked what we saw at moments, and I think we can get really good if we keep doing the little things and getting better at them,” Lakewood head coach Cam Rowland said. “How many times did we dig balls where we missed connections because we haven’t worked on that yet? Normally, we would have done that by this point, but it is hard to do those things outside with connections and stuff because the wind is a factor and the sun. it is just different. Being able to be inside and do those things will be nice.” Reitsma powered the Lowell attack. She finished the night with 27 kills, getting fed time and again both on the left side of the net and in the back row. She is on the short list for Miss Volleyball on the state of Michigan this season, and Rowland said his team won’t see a player better than her on the court this sea­ son. Reitsma also had three blocks and eight digs. Lowell had a slim lead throughout most of the three sets. The Vikings’ last advantage in the first set was at 12-11, Red Arrow senior Sydney Zandstra smacked a kill and then served an ace to put her team in front on its way to the opening set win. She then served her team to a 5-0 lead in the second set. Serve receive was one of the Vikings’ big­ gest issues on the evening, something that will improve with time in the gym and young back row players gaining some more experi­ ence. Few teams will serve the Vikings as tough as the Red Arrows did. Lakewood did rally in that second set to take an 11-10 lead, but the Red Arrows surged from that point again. Set three was tighter until the end, with the Vikings holding a late 20-19 advantage before the Red Arrows won six of the final seven points. Aubrey O’Gorman led the Vikings in the loss with 12 kills and Maradith had ten. Bump put up 21 assists. Freshman libero Carley Piercefield had a team-high 12 digs for the Vikings with Maradith adding nine. Maradith had a team-high three blocks too. Aubrey and Piercefield had two aces each for the Vikings. Aubrey is also on that short list of the top senior players in the state. “Having Aubrey in the middle tonight, the connection piece was just not there. We’ll fix that. We’ll find that. When we were able to use her, she was dominant. We just have to be able to use her more and more and more,” Rowland said. “The little serve receive things, we’ll find out. I think individually we passed well. It was the team of who am I passing next too stuff. We’ll figure that stuff out.” Rowland was also happy with the play of junior outside hitter Zayda Kruger in her first varsity action. She firushed with four kills. “The new faces on t^e court are learning things and doing well. They’re absorbing stuff,” Rowland said. Emily Struckmeyer and Powell had seven kills each for the Red Arrows and Zandstra chipped in six. Powell and Zandstra had three aces each. Emma Hall, the Red Arrows’ libe­ ro, led her team with 14 digs. Powell had 32 assists. Lakewood returned to action Saturday at the Forest Hills Eastern Quad, scoring its first three victories of the season. The Vikings bested Holland Christian 25-16,25-14, Forest Hills Northern 25-14, 25-11, and Forest Hills Eastern 25-22,26-24. Maradith O’Gorman had a team-high 26 kills on the day and Aubrey added 25. Duits returned to the line-up to add five kills. Bump had nine kills and 62 assists. Bump and Aubrey had six aces each and Paige Wolverton added four. Piercefield led the Vikings in digs with 30. Ali Pickard and Maradith had 15 digs each. Aubrey had seven blocks and Maradith four. The Vikings opened the Greater Lansing Activities Conference season with a 25-4, 25-10, 25-2 win over visiting Olivet Tuesday. Maradith had 11 kills and two blocks. Duits and Ellie Possehn added five kills each. Bump Five of first six girls across finish are Trojans at tri in Middleville The Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ cross country team had no trouble besting South Christian and Hopkins in a non-conference tri in Middleville Monday afternoon. The TK ladies had five of the first six fin­ ishers to earn a pair of victories. The TK ladies bested South Christian 18-39 and Hopkins 15-48. The South Christian girls, members of the OK Gold Conference along with the Troians, also defeated Hopkins 19-44. The TK boys split their two duals, earning an 18-43 win over Hopkins while being best­ ed 15-46 by the South Christian boys. South Christian had a perfect 15-50 score in its bat­ tle with the Hopkins Vikings. The TK ladies were led by Jessica Durkee who hit the finish line in 20 minutes 26 sec­ onds. Teammate Emelia MacDonald was sec­ ond in 21:16. The Trojan girls’ team also had Lucy VanDemark fourth in 21:29, Madison Nagel fifth in 21:56 and Kendall Snyder sixth in 22:02. The only Sailors breaking up the pack of the Trojans’ top five was Emily Langerak who placed third in 21 minutes 24 seconds. Hopkins’ leader was Helena Kerber who placed eighth in 22:12. All seven South Christian scorers were in the top nine overall in the boys’ race. Ethan Luurtsema led his team with a time of 17:467 and Hendrik Nykamp was the runner-up in 18:16. TK was led by the duo of Camden Reynolds and Lucas Van Meter. Reynolds was sixth overall in 18:36 and Van Meter seventh in 18:44. The next TK pack included Brennan Lutz 12th in 19:17, Matthew Smith 14th in 19:18 and Howie Frizzell 14th in 19:30. Hopkins’ boys were led by Trevor Shealy who was tenth in 19:12. The next meet on the schedule for the TK runners is another home tri against Wayland and Delton Kellogg Sept. 22. Lakewood ladies win two more GLAC golf jamborees The Lakewood varsity girls’ golf team made it three for three in winning Greater Lansing Activities Conference jamborees this season by finishing first at the meeting hosted by Laingsburg Tuesday. The Vikings put together a score of 229 at Pine Hills Golf Course. Lakewood was led by a 52 from M organ Stahl. The Viking team also got a 57 from Claire Benham, a 58 from Natalie Lang and a 62 from Mackinzie Vasquez. Karmyn Winkler was right behind with a 63 for the Vikings. Laingsburg was second overall with a team score of 239, ahead of Olivet 47 and Perry 249. Laingsburg’s Grace Elfring was the indi­ vidual champ on the day putting together a score of 45 to earn medalist honors for the second time this season. Olivet was led by Abby Williams’ 56 Tuesday. The Lakewood team scored a 232 on the Sunrise nine at Centennial Acres in Sunfield to best the teams from Olivet, Perry and Laingsburg at the second conference jambo­ ree last Thursday. Benham shot a 51 to lead the Lakewood ladies, scoring a birdie on the par-3 number two. Olivet was the day’s runner-up with a score of 245, ahead of Perry 260 and Laingsburg 266. Elfring was second individually with 53 and Perry got a 53 from Jackie Mattison. The Vikings are slated to host a dual at home today (Sept. 17) against Owosso. Lakewood setter Skylar Bump puts a pass up as teammate Aubrey O’Gorman looks on from the net during their three-set loss at Lowell High School to open the season Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) put up 26 assists. Bump and Wolverton had six aces each. Piercefield had a team-high six digs, Bump added three and Izzy Wheeler, Alivia Everitt and Wolverton had two digs each in the win over the Eagles. Hastings spikers beat host Union City twice at its quad The Saxons opened their season Saturday at a quad hosted by Union City, earning a third-place finish. The Saxons were bested by Mendon and Reading to open the day, then scored a pair of three-set wins over the host team. The Saxons defeated Union City 24-25, 25-15,15-13 in the final match of round-robin play, then defeated Union City again in the match for third-place 25-20, 25-18,25-14. Lexi Herblet had 17 kills and Chelsea Ertner 14 to lead the Saxon attack on the day. Brianna Barnes had 15 assists and Morgan Deal 12. Herblet, Barnes and Deal had five aces each. Defensively, Ertner had a team high 18 total blocks. Ella Carroll led the Saxons in the back row in her first varsity matches as libero. Hastings opened the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference season against Pennfield, falling 3-0. Herblet and Carly Warner led the Saxons with two kills each. Barnes had four assists. Warner and Herblet had two aces each as well. Hastings was scheduled to return to action at home last night against Coldwater. The Saxons will be home again Sept. 23 against Jackson lumen Christi. Lakewood leaders set new personal records at Saranac Lakewood senior Katie Acker ran the fast­ est race of her varsity cross country career Thursday to earn a runner-up finish at Saranac High School. Acker hit the finish line in 20 minutes 55 seconds, besting her previous best time of 21:09.3 which she set last October at the Greater Lansing Activities Conference Championship. Acker had Saranac sophomore Madeleine Hill to chase throughout the race. Hill won the girls’ race in 20:41, but it wasn’t quite enough for Hill’s team to best Ionia for the day’s championship. The Bulldog girls won the four-team meet with 36 points. Saranac was second with 37 points, ahead of Lakewood 52 and Lakeview 104. Only two of the four schools had enough runners to earn scores in the boys’ race, with Saranac besting Ionia 26-31. Lakewood senior Nathan Alford set a new personal record as well Thursday, finishing the race in 16 min­ utes 24 seconds to win the individual champi­ onship. He bested his previous PR, which he set at regionals a year ago, by a second. Alford finished 18 seconds ahead of the runner-up, Saranac sophomore Grayson Rasmus who hit the finish line in 16:42. Saranac had four guys finish in the top seven in the race. Ionia junior Maddie Hanulcik led the Bulldog girls to the win with a third-place time of 21:38. Lakewood had three girls finish in the top ten, with senior Anja Kelley seventh in 23:16 and senior Emily Apsey ninth in 23:23. Rounding out the top five for the Vikings were sophomore Sadie Brearley 14th in 24:26 and sophomore Emma Lancaster 20th in 25:17. The Lakewood boys’ team had four racers, with all four running their fastest race of the season. Junior Zac Gibson set a new personal record with his 12th-place time of 18:52. Sophomore Ryan Alford was 15th overall for the Vikings in 19:19 and Lakewood junior Aiden Pyle was 20th in 19:55. DK scores late to earn draw with Parchment boys Alden Whitmore scored the first goal of the 2020 varsity boys’ soccer season for Delton Monday evening at Parchment. The Delton Kellogg and Parchment Panthers closed their match-up in a 1-1 tie, with the Delton Kellogg boys evening the score with 14 minutes to play after Parchment found the back of the net early in the match. Gavin Houtkooper made 17 saves in goal for Delton. The Delton Kellogg boys opened their sea­ son on the new turf at the high school last Thursday (Sept. 10), falling 3-0 to Kalamazoo Christian in a Southwest Athletic Conference contest. Delton Kellogg was scheduled to host Schoolcraft last night and will be on the road at Lake wood this afternoon (Sept. 17). �Page 12 — Thursday, September 17, 2020 — The Hastings Banner CASE, continued from page 1 in 2019, according to MDHHS statistics. Jay VanStee, director of environmental health at Barry-Eaton District Health Department, is concerned that EEE activity this year will be worse than last year. He shared his concerns with Barry County commissioners Tuesday. “Weather conditions are favorable for it,” VanStee told commissioners. “The disease is spread endemically in swamps, it’s a specific type of a swamp. Mosquitoes in those swamps bite the birds. ... Other mosquitoes come into play; they actually bite the birds, get the virus from the birds.” Those mosquitoes then bite mammals “and that’s where the spread comes out.” UCzvfjflLLc 1 Tina Wescott 11 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENT’S ESTATE FILE NO. 20-28572-DE Estate of David Gerald Halter. Date of birth: 10/23/1948. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, David Gerald Halter, died 03/29/2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Gerald William Halter, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Ste. 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 9-3-2020 Howard Van Den Heuvel P46369 4920 Broadmoor SE Grand Rapids, Ml 49512 616-698-0000 Gerald William Halter 41 Brisbane Lane East Meadow, NY 11554 516-312-6430 147457 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS TRUST ADMINISTRATION FILE NO. N/A In the Matter of Janet A. Cavanaugh. Date of birth: 03/05/1934. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Janet A. Cavanaugh, who lived at 6795 Noffke Drive, Caledonia, Ml 49316 died July 16, 2020. There is no personal representative of the decedent’s estate to whom Letters of Authority have been issued. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the Trust will be forever barred unless presented to Daniel Cavanaugh, successor Trustee of the Richard T. Cavanaugh and Janet A. Cavanaugh Trust dated September 19, 2018, within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 01/14/2020 Dellenbusch & Ryan, PLC Caroline M. Dellenbusch P33185 2944 Fuller Ave NE, Suite 100 Grand Rapids, Ml 49505 (616)451-4242 Daniel Cavanaugh 2200 Glen Gary Ct. SE Grand Rapids, Ml 49546 (616)450-9286 147601 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS TRUST In the matter of: The Rose C. Patten Trust, dated September 20,1990. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Rose C. Patten a/k/a Rose C. Patten-Knoll, who lived at 2536 Pomoska, Hastings, Michigan 49058, died on September 5, 2020, leaving a certain trust under the name of The Rose C. Patten Trust, dated September 20, 1990 wherein the decedent was the Settlor and Mary Lynn Holley was named as Successor Trustee serving at the time of or as a result of the decedent’s death. Creditors of the decedent and of the trust are notified that all claims against the decedent or against the trust will be forever barred unless presented to Mary Lynn Holley, the named Successor Trustee, at Tripp & Tagg, Attorneys at Law, 202 South Broadway, Hastings, Michigan 49058 within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: September 11,2020 David H. Tripp (P29290) 202 South Broadway Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-2900 Mary Lynn Holley 1902 Campground Rd. Hastings, Ml 49058 147655 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENT’S ESTATE FILE NO. 20028585 Estate of Adam LloWalt Porter. Date of birth: Aug. 17,1960. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Adam LloWalt Porter, died July 13, 2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Susan Marie Porter, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Dennis R. Cooper P-36149 1345 Monroe Ave. NW, S 232 Grand Rapids, Ml 49505 616.723.0310 Susan Marie Porter 9 Market St. Middleville, Ml 49333 616.240.4038 147329 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT AND DUTIES OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE FILE NO. 20-28572-DE Estate of David Gerald Halter TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. On 08/03/2020 I was appointed personal representative as requested in the application or petition for probate of this estate. I am serving without bond. The papers related to the estate are on file with the Barry County Probate Court located at 206 W. Court St., Suite 302, Hastings, Ml 49058. This is not a supervised administration. 2. Attached is a copy of the will of the decedent which was admitted to probate and under which I will administer, manage,and distribute the estate. 3. The court does not supervise the personal representative in the administration of an estate except in limited circumstances. 4. If I was appointed informally, you or another interested person may petition the court objecting to my appointment and/or demanding that I post a bond or an additional bond. The petition must be filed with the probate court along with the applicable fee. Unless the court grants the petition, I will continue to serve as appointed. 5. You or another interested person may petition for a hearing by the court on any matter at any time during the administration of the estate, including for distribution of assets and allowance of expenses of administration. The petition must be filed with the probate court along with the applicable fee. 6. If you continue to be an interested person (such as an heir of an intestate estate or devisee or beneficiary under the will of the decedent), I will provide you with: 1) a copy of the inventory within 91 days of my appointment; 2) unless waived by you, a copy of an account including fiduciary fees and attorney fees charged to the estate, within 1 year of my appointment; and 3) a copy of the closing statement or settlement petition when the estate is ready for closing. 7. To avoid penalties, I must have paid any federal estate and Michigan estate taxes within 9 months after the date of the decedent’s death or another time period specified by law. 8. The estate may not be closed earlier than 5 months after the date of my appointment except in limited circumstances. If the estate is not settled within 1 year after my appointment, within 28 days after the anniversary of the appointment, I must file with the court and send to each interested person a notice that the estate remains under administration and the reason for the continuation of the estate. If you do no receive such a notice, you may petition the court for a hearing on the necessity for continued administration or for closure of the estate. Date: 09/08/2020 Howard Van Den Heuval P46369 4920 Broadmoor SE Grand Rapids, Ml 49512 (616)698-0000 Gerald William Halter 15 Brisbane Lane East Meadow, NY 11554 (516)312-6430 147458 “People were complaining about the spraying, and I feel it’s important they know what can happen to a person when they get bit by an infected mosquito.” Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicatureactof 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on October 8, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Joshua H Taylor, Married Man Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Freedom Mortgage Corporation Date of Mortgage: March 26,2015 Date of Mortgage Recording: April 14, 2015 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $112,621.99 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Commencing at the East 1/4 post of Section 20, Town 2 North, Range 9 West, Hope Township, Barry County, Michigan; thence South along the East line of said Section 20, 509.62 feet to the centerline of Highway M-43; thence South 77 degrees 25 minutes 20 seconds West along the centerline of said Highway M-43 and its extension Southwesterly 1373.81 feet; thence South 08 degrees 30 minutes 00 seconds West 29.47 feet to a point in the centerline of Gurnsey Lake Road and the place of beginning; thence North 66 degrees 49 minutes 25 seconds East along the centerline of said Gurnsey Lake Road 138.99 feet; thence South 30 degrees 47 minutes 11 seconds West 361.52 feet; thence North 70 degrees 22 minutes 19 seconds West 110.60 feet; thence North 03 degrees 19 minutes 25 seconds East 205.45 feet to the centerline of said Gurnsey Lake Road, thence South 82 degrees 22 minutes 35 seconds East along the centerline of said Gurnsey Lake Road 99.95 feet; thence North 59 degrees 41 minutes 25 seconds East continuing along the centerline of said Gurnsey Lake Road 50.11 feet; thence North 77 degrees 31 minutes 25 seconds East continuing along centerline of said Gurnsey Lake Road 7.38 feet to the place of beginning. The Northerly 33.00 feet of the above described parcel, adjacent to Gurnsey Lake Road, being subject to an easement for public highway purposes. Common street address (if any): 5295 Guernsey Lake Rd, Delton, Ml 49046-9673 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or, If the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). ' If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: September 3,2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248)642-2515 1420832 (09-03)(09-24) 146916 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENT’S ESTATE FILE NO. 20-28604-DE Estate of George E. Speas, deceased. Date of birth: 10/31/1931. TO ALL CREDITORS: The decedent, George E. Speas, died 6/18/2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Jeffrey P. Speas, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings, Ml and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 9-15-2020 Jeffrey R Speas 4173 Brown Road, Lake Odessa, Ml 48849 (269)908-1864 147775 STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL DISTRICT 5TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION/POSTING AND NOTICE OF ACTION CASE NO. 20-449-CH Court address: Barry County Courthouse Floor 2 220 W. State St., Hastings, Ml 49058 Court Telephone no.: (269) 945-1286 Plaintiff The Great Lakes District of the Wesleyan Church, F/K/A The West Michigan District of the Wesleyan Church Plaintiff’s Attorney Ronald J. Vander Veen (P33067) Cunningham Dalman, PC, 321 Settlers Road, PO Box 1767, Holland, Ml 49422-1767 (616) 392-1821 v Defendant Robert Byington, Suzy Byington, Patricia Byington, Robert Byington, Henry M. Byington, and B. Jane Byington (addresses unknown) TO: Robert Byington, Suzy Byington, Patricia Byington, Robert Byington, Henry M. Byington, and B. Jane Byington IT IS ORDERED: 1. You are being sued by plaintiff in this court to quiet title to the property known as 4395 W. Hickory Road, Hickory Corners, Barry County, Michigan. You must file your answer or take other action permitted by law in this court at the court address above on or before October 15, 2020. If you fail to do so, a default judgment may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint filed in this case. 2. A copy of this order shall be published once each week in The Hastings Banner for three consecutive weeks, and proof of publication shall be filed in this court. 3. Plaintiff shall arrange to post a copy of this order in the courthouse, and at Barry Township Hall, 1300 S. M-43 Hwy., Delton, Mi 49046 for three continuous weeks, and shall file proof of posting in this court. Date: August 25, 2020 Vicky L. Alspaugh P92573 146837 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on October 8, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Jack Barrus, and Cecilene Barrus, husband and wife, Gale Barrus and Teresa Barrus, a married couple and Kim Terpening a single woman, all as joint tenants with rights of survivorship Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/or assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): The Bank of New York Mellon, F/K/A The Bank of New York as trustee for registered Holders of CWABS, Inc., Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2006-3 Date of Mortgage: December 19,2005 Date of Mortgage Recording: January 10,2006 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $70,607.51 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Baltimore, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: A parcel of land in the Northeast fractional 1/4 of Section 33, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, described as commencing 14 and 1/2 Rods South of where the North line of said Section 33 crosses highway M-37, thence East 14 rods, thence South 3 rods, thence West 14 rods, thence North 3 rods to the place of beginning. Common street address (if any): 9035 S M 37 Hwy, Dowling, Ml 49050-8709 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). ' If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: September 10,2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1420869 (09-10)(10-01) 146975 Jay VanStee, Barry-Eaton District Health Department’s director of environ­ mental health, provided an update on the Eastern equine encephalitis Tuesday to the Barry Jeff and Tina Wescott have been together for 9 1/2 years and got married July 20,2019, Tina Wescott said. She does not know the exactly when her husband was bitten by a mosquito, but it was sometime in late August, she said. He became ill and was admitted to Spectrum Health Pennock Hospital in Hastings on Sept. 1, then transferred to Spectrum Health Butterworth the following day. He developed an irregular heartbeat, a situation Wescott called “terrify­ ing” “I didn’t think he was going to make it through the first night at Butterworth,” she said. Wescott was a patient at Spectrum Health Butterworth through last Saturday, then he was transferred to Mary Free Bed. “He is very weak, but improving every day,” Tina Wescott said. While state officials typically do not pub­ licly release detailed information on patients who contract EEE or other diseases, Wescott shared her husband’s story on her Facebook page after reading complaints about a deci­ sion announced by MDHHS Monday to con­ duct aerial spraying in Barry County and nine other Michigan counties in an effort to pre­ vent the spread of EEE. Unlike last year, when residents in affected areas could ask to opt out of spraying, the department is not providing that option this fall. “People were complaining about the spray­ ing, and I feel it’s important they know what can happen to a person when they get bit by an infected mosquito,” Tina Wescott said. Portions of four townships - Baltimore, Maple Grove, Johnstown and Assyria - were to be sprayed this week, weather permitting, according to information provided by the Barry-Eaton District Health Department Tuesday. “(The spraying) involves five square miles around a radius of human or animal cases,” VanStee said. The coverage area is roughly bordered by M-37 on the west, M-66 on the east, Maple Grove Road on the north and Lacey Road on the south. Besides Barry County, other Michigan counties where spraying is expected to take place include Kent, Ionia, Clare, Isabella, Jackson, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo and Oakland. The Michigan Department of Agricultural and Rural Development (MDARD) issued the emergency rule temporarily amending the requirement for notification and participation for community pesticide applications for aeri­ al spraying treatment across affected counties. This means mosquito control treatment will be required for those areas that are identified by the aerial treatment plan with the exception of federal properties and tribal lands. “As recent history has shown us, EEE can strike fast and it can be deadly to humans and animals,” said MDARD Director Gary McDowell. “MDARD fully supports the work and commitment of MDHHS to protect public health, which is why we have removed an obstacle that might have prevented them from taking action quickly.” EEE has been found in at least 22 horses across the state, including one in the Blackman’s Swamp area near Dowling. That’s twice as many cases as were found at the same time last year, according to MDHHS. For Dr. Tim Hicswa of Bull Creek EEE symptoms: Signs of EEE infection in humans include a sudden onset of fever, chills, body and joint aches. These symptoms can progress to a severe encephalitis, resulting in head­ ache, disorientation, tremors, seizures and paralysis. Anyone experiencing these symp­ toms should seek medical help as soon as possible. Permanent brain damage, coma and death can occur in some cases. - Information provided by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Veterinary Service in Carlton Township, the news of EEE cases has resulted in “multiple calls a day” from concerned residents about their horses. “We put out some stuff on our Facebook page, reminding people to vaccinate,” Dr. Hicswa said. There is an EEE vaccine for horses but not one for humans. Typically, Dr. Hicswa inocu­ lates horses with the EEE vaccine in the spring, which usually protects a horse for a full year. He usually provides 1,000 to 1,200 doses a year. Stacie Bode, a horse trainer and manager at Diamond Sahara Equestrian Services LLC in Middleville, said she feels confident the EEE vaccine will protect her horses. “It’s an extremely effective vaccine,” Bode said. “I think that there’s a lot of hype around EEE and the last two years it’s been spotlight­ ed a little more — and I’m not saying there isn’t a risk — but personally, it’s not much of a concern for me.” Dr. Hicswa supports the aerial spraying, saying the application of the Merus 3.0 pesti­ cide “seems very safe.” Merus 3.0 was used in spraying 557,000 acres across the state last year, including most of southern Barry County. Spraying takes place beginning in the early evening and continuing up until the fol­ lowing dawn. Ultra-low volume sprayers will dispense very fine aerosol droplets that stay suspended in the air and kill adult mosquitoes on contact. “Once it dries, it’s non-lethal to anything, and sunlight breaks it down,” Dr. Hicswa said. Merus 3.0 is registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and MDARD, and is labeled for public health use over residential areas. It contains 5 percent pyrethrins, a botanical insecticide extracted from chrysanthemum flowers. Pyrethrins are commonly used to control mosquitoes, fleas, flies, moths, ants and many other pests, and are approved for use in organic agriculture as well. Some critics have complained that the Merus application has a negative impact on bee populations, but Dr. Hicswa said that bees are typically in their hives by the evening hours when the spraying takes place. County Commissioner Jon Smelker raised a similar concern to VanStee about the impact on bees. “We’re aware of that, we do believe the risk is relatively low,” Van Stee said, pointing out that beekeepers can take steps to protect the bees by covering their hives with burlap. Although the aerial treatment is considered necessary to reduce human risk for EEE, it will not eliminate it. Residents can continue to protect themselves from mosquito bites by: • Avoiding being outdoors from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes carrying the EEE virus are most active. • Applying insect repellents containing the active ingredient DEET, or other U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-approved product to exposed skin or clothing, and always follow the manufacturer’s directions for use. • Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors. Apply insect repellent to clothing to help prevent bites. • Maintaining window and door screens to help keep mosquitoes outside. • Emptying water from mosquito breeding sites around the home, such as buckets, unused kiddie pools, old tires or similar sites where mosquitoes may lay eggs. • Using nets and/or fans over outdoor eat­ ing areas. Additional information about aerial treat­ ment and other health-related concerns is available in a Frequently Asked Questions document at Michigan.gov/EEE. The MDHHS hotline, which will take calls for general questions about both COVID and EEE, is 1-888-535-6136. That hotline is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. - Staff Writer Sophie Bates and Editor Rebecca Pierce contributed to this report. State suggests canceling evening activities as EEE cases increase The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is encouraging local officials in counties affected by Eastern equine enceph­ alitis (EEE) to consider postponing, resched­ uling or canceling outdoor activities occur­ ring at or after dusk - particularly activities that involve children. This includes events such as late evening sports practices or games. The MDHHS recommendation, being made as a cautionary step to protect public health, applies until the first hard frost of the year. As of Wednesday, 22 cases of EEE have been found in horses in 10 Michigan counties, including Barry. There is an EEE vaccine \ available for horses, but not for people. “As animal cases continue to grow, the risks to people increase as well,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, MDHHS chief medical executive and chief deputy for health. “People get EEE the same way horses do - from the bite of an infected mosquito - so a case in a horse means people in that area are also at risk. “Limiting exposure at outdoor activities, especially near dusk when mosquitoes are most active, is the best way to keep you and your family safe from this deadly disease.” �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 17, 2020 — Page 13 HOPE TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENT PUBLIC HEARING - VIRTUAL MEETING CLOVERDALE, WILKINSON AND JONES (MUD) LAKES AQUATIC PLANT CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2020-2 Man strikes girlfriend on way to child visitation A 28-year-old Dowling woman reported her boyfriend hit her in the jaw Sept. 8 while they were in his vehicle at the Marathon gas station in Dowling at 3:09 p.m. She then got out of the vehicle and started walking down the road in inclement weather, when an officer saw her asked if she needed a ride. The woman said her boyfriend, 33, of Dowling, accused her of infidelity, which led to a fight. She hit the dashboard and yelled at him, which is when he punched her in the jaw. The officer noticed swelling and a bruise where the woman indi­ cated. The couple were on their way to Hastings for supervised visitation time with their children. She had a .014 blood alcohol content. The officer went on to the Hastings Public Library, where the boyfriend was visiting with the couple’s children. He said he did not hit his girlfriend. He admitted to doing drugs a couple days before, but said he was trying to stay clean so he could get custody of his kids. Information was forwarded to the prosecuting attorney. The couple has an extensive history of domestic violence. Woman claims skip-scanning was accident A 31-year-old Wayland woman was stopped by a Hastings Walmart associate after she attempted to leave without paying for merchandise at 3:26 p.m. Sept. 11. The associate told police they had watched the woman skip-scanning items at the self checkout, and brought her to a back room when she tried to leave. The woman said she thought she rang up every item, and did not know anything was not paid for. Information was forwarded to the prose­ cuting attorney. Phone thief makes threatening calls A 62-year-old woman called police at 1:02 p.m. Sept. 13, to report her prepaid cell phone was stolen from her vehicle while it was parked at her residence in the 4000 block of Princess Drive. She said the thief had been calling people on the contact list and threatening them. She had the phone service to the device suspended. The case is inactive. Man reports wife for OWI, she reports him for parole violation A 54-year-old Hastings man called police at 1:21 p.m. Sept. 13 to report his wife had recently left their house in a vehicle, and was intoxicated. Police located the vehicle at the Shell gas station in Hastings. The officer noticed a wine glass in the vehicle’s central con­ sole, which she later threw on the floor when the officer stepped away. The woman, 53, said she was in an argument with her husband, and left to prevent it from escalating. She also said she took the car to keep her husband from using it to go buy crack. She had a .097 blood alcohol level and was arrested. The woman reported her husband is on parole, and was drinking. The officer went to the couple’s house, in the 1000 block of Charlton Drive, but the man did not come to the door. The officer called his cell phone, and could hear it ringing inside. The accusations were forwarded to the man’s parole officer. Farmer finds 22 marijuana plants in field A 58-year-old man called police after he found 22 marijuana plants in his cornfield in the 6000 block of South M-66 at 8:04 p.m. Sept. 7. The man said he did not know how the plants got there, but his family members noticed them while they were chopping corn. The officer removed the plants. TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF HOPE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN AND ANY OTHER INTER­ ESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Township Board of Hope Township, as authorized by PA 188 of 1954, as amended, proposes to undertake an aquatic plant control project (with associated activities) on Cloverdale, Wilkinson and Jones (Mud) Lakes in Hope Township as more particularly described below and to create a special assessment district for the recovery of the costs thereof by special assessment against the properties benefited. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the special assessment district within which the foregoing improvements are proposed to be made and within which the costs thereof are to be specially assessed includes parcels with frontage on Cloverdale, Wilkinson and/or Jones (Mud) Lakes and/or back lots with access to Cloverdale, Wilkinson and/or Jones (Mud) Lakes and including the following tax parcels: CLOVERDALE, WILKINSON AND JONES (MUD) LAKES AQUATIC PLANT CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DIST. 2020-2: The prop­ erties indicated by parcel numbers: 07-019-412-10 07-030-011-00 07-150-015-00 07-260-004-10 07-300-023-00 07-310-016-00 07-310-141-00 07-020-002-00 07-030-012-00 07-150-017-00 07-260-005-00 07-300-023-42 07-310-018-00 07-310-144-00 07-020-017-00 07-030-013-00 07-150-017-10 07-260-006-00 07-300-024-00 07-310-019-00 07-310-145-00 07-020-018-00 07-030-014-00 07-150-018-00 07-260-007-00 07-300-025-00 07-310-020-00 07-310-147-00 07-020-040-00 07-030-016-00 07-230-001-00 07-260-008-00 07-300-026-00 07-310-021-00 07-310-149-00 07-020-044-00 07-030-402-06 07-230-002-00 07-260-009-00 07-300-030-00 07-310-022-00 07-310-150-00 07-020-045-00 07-030-448-21 07-230-003-00 07-260-010-00 07-300-033-00 07-310-074-00 07-310-411-54 07-020-046-10 07-031-008-00 07-230-004-00 07-260-011-00 07-300-045-00 07-310-076-00 07-310-450-50 07-020-046-20 07-031-011-11 07-230-006-00 07-260-012-00 07-300-049-00 07-310-079-00 07-315-004-00 07-020-046-30 07-031-011-12 07-230-007-00 07-260-013-00 07-300-051-00 07-310-082-00 07-315-005-00 07-020-046-50 07-031-011-20 07-230-008-00 07-260-014-00 07-300-053-00 07-310-083-00 07-315-007-00 07-020-047-00 07-031-011-30 07-230-009-00 07-300-001-01 07-300-058-00 07-310-087-00 07-315-151-00 07-020-457-00 07-031-011-50 07-230-010-00 07-300-004-00 07-300-062-00 07-310-088-00 07-315-152-00 07-029-017-10 07-031-014-00 07-230-011-00 07-300-005-00 07-300-065-00 07-310-089-00 07-315-153-00 07-029-021-00 07-031-020-00 07-230-012-00 07-300-006-00 07-300-066-00 07-310-091-00 07-315-156-00 07-029-023-00 07-140-007-00 07-230-013-00 07-300-007-00 07-300-080-00 07-310-093-00 07-315-158-00 07-029-027-00 07-140-008-00 07-230-014-00 07-300-008-00 07-300-160-00 07-310-109-00 07-315-160-00 07-029-226-00 07-140-010-00 07-230-016-00 07-300-008-10 07-300-402-00 07-310-110-00 07-315-161-00 07-030-001-40 07-150-001-00 07-230-017-00 07-300-008-20 07-310-003-00 07-310-111-50 07-315-162-00 07-030-001-50 07-150-002-00 07-230-018-00 07-300-009-00 07-310-003-10 07-310-111-56 07-315-164-50 07-030-002-09 07-150-003-00 07-230-019-00 07-300-010-00 07-310-004-00 07-310-123-00 07-315-166-00 07-030-002-50 07-150-004-00 07-230-020-00 07-300-011-00 07-310-005-00 07-310-125-00 07-315-167-00 07-030-002-81 07-150-005-00 07-230-021-00 07-300-012-00 07-310-007-00 07-310-127-00 07-315-168-00 07-030-003-00 07-150-006-00 07-230-022-00 07-300-013-00 07-310-008-00 07-310-128-00 07-315-169-00 07-030-004-00 07-150-007-00 07-230-023-00 07-300-014-00 07-310-009-00 07-310-130-00 07-315-171-00 07-030-005-00 07-150-008-00 07-230-024-00 07-300-015-00 07-310-011-00 07-310-132-00 07-315-172-10 07-030-005-05 07-150-009-00 07-230-025-00 07-300-018-00 07-310-011-10 07-310-133-00 07-315-175-00 07-030-007-00 07-150-010-00 07-230-027-00 07-300-019-00 07-310-012-00 07-310-134-00 07-315-176-00 07-030-008-00 07-150-011-00 07-230-028-00 07-300-020-00 07-310-013-00 07-310-136-00 07-315-178-00 07-030-009-00 07-150-013-00 07-230-032-05 07-300-020-25 07-310-014-00 07-310-138-00 07-315-180-00 07-030-010-00 07-150-014-00 07-260-001-00 07-300-022-00 07-310-015-00 07-310-140-00 07-315-180-20 07-315-181-00 07-315-182-00 07-315-184-00 07-315-185-00 07-315-186-00 See also the accompanying map identifying the proposed special assessment district. No leads in mysterious rock thrower An 83-year-old woman called police to report someone threw a rock at her 83-year-old husband while he was mowing the lawn at their residence in the 300 block of East Hickory Road at 9:47 ajn, Sept. 6. The man said he was on his riding lawn mower, and the rock fell onto the instrument panel and broke it. He said the mower blades was not running at the time. He did not see who threw the rock, but said it may have been his neighbor. The neigh­ bor, a 61-year-old man, said he did not throw a rock. The case is inactive. Two Narcan save man from heroin overdose An officer responded to a report of a heroin overdose in the 5000 block of Wilkins Road at 2:14 p.m. Sept. 10. A 31-year-old man was unresponsive on a bed, while his cousin, another 31-year-old man, performed CPR. The officer moved the man onto the floor and detected a faint pulse and agonal breathing. The officer administered two doses of Narcan, two minutes apart, and after the second dose the man began to recover. He was taken to the hospital. The cousin said he had been letting the man stay there to help him get clean, and did not know he had heroin with him. Snapchat argument leads to pepper spray A 20-year-old man was arrested for assault after spraying a 21-year-old man in the face with pepper spray at his residence in the 500 block of East Green Street at 2:47 p.m. July 13. The suspect was in an argument over Snapchat with the man, over a video posted on Snapchat of the 21-year-old’s girlfriend giving his daughter a vape pen. The suspect told the man to come to his residence. The man went to the house with a 36-year-old man. When they arrived, the suspect was holding a gun, which he later swapped out for pepper spray. The suspect said he pepper sprayed the man because he headbutted him. The man said he did not attack the suspect. Surveillance footage did not show physical contact directly before the pepper spray. The suspect said the gun was an air-soft pistol loaded with metal BBs, which police later located. The suspect was involved in a second incident, also at the Green Street residence, at 8:35 a.m. Aug. 23. A 57-year-old man came to his house after he had heard the suspect threatened to stab either his girlfriend or his dog. The suspect said the man was armed with a screw­ driver and tried to punch him. The 57-year-old said the suspect hit him in the face and threw a coffee cup at him. The coffee cup cause an injury to his head which was still bleeding when he spoke to officers. Information was forwarded to the prosecuting attorney. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Board has received plans showing the proposed aquatic plant control project, associated activities, any proposed improvements and locations thereof, together with an estimate of the cost of the project in the amount of $335,580. The cost of the project proposed to be raised by special assessment is the total project cost. The Hope Township Board has passed a resolution tentatively declaring its intention to undertake such project and to create the afore-described special assessment district. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Board has placed the project plans and costs estimates on file with the Township Clerk Young teen’s airways closed after THC vape Police were called out the skate park in Hastings at 7:10 a.m. Aug. 29, for an assault between two teenagers. A 13-year-old said an 18-year-old gave him a vape pen with THC, and, when he drew on it, put his hands over his nose and mouth. He fought back until the 18-year-old let go. He then became sick and started throwing up. He was still throwing up when officers interviewed him. Witnesses saw the incident. The suspect admitted to forcing his airways closed, and said he was trying to keep the vapor in his lungs longer. Information was forwarded to the prosecutor’s office. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 and said plans, cost estimates and special assessment districts may be examined at the Clerk’s office from the date of this Notice to the date of the public hearing and may further be examined at such public hearing. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Board proposes to make a per-parcel special assessment each year for a period of five years (2020-2024 inclusive). The annual assessment is proposed to be $408.00 per year for front lots and $204 per year for back lots. Additionally, the Township Board reserves the right to levy a lesser assessment amount in any year that there are more funds in the special assessment district fund than the amount needed for that year’s aquatic plant control work and associated activities. The Township Board will provide notice of any increase in the assessment amount over 10%, as required by law. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a public hearing on the plans, district, cost estimates and the carryover of surplus funds from the ex­ piring special assessment district will be held via Zoom on September 29,2020 beginning at 7:00 p.m. The log in information to attend the public hearing via Zoom is: Meeting ID: 821 7465 7693 Passcode: 618913 To participate via telephone: (301) 715-8592 or (312) 626-6799. Directions on how to attend and participate via the Zoom platform are available on the Hope Township website at www.hopetwp.com. Interested parties may participate in the public hearing via Zoom log in or telephone call. Interested parties may also send comments to the Township Clerk up to 12 noon on the day of the public hearing at hopetwpcl@mei.net. At the public hearing, the Board will consider any written objections and comments to any of the foregoing matters that are filed with the clerk at or before the hearing (by 12 noon on the day of the hearing) and any objections or comments raised at the hearing; following the hearing (or any adjournment of the hearing which may be made without further notice), the Township Board may revise, correct, amend or change the plans, cost estimates or special assessment district. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that if written objections to the project are filed with the Township Board at or before the hearing, signed by the record owners of land constituting more than 20% of the area within the proposed special assessment district, then the Township Board may not proceed unless petitions in support of the project, signed by record owners of more than 50% of the area to be made into a special assessment district, are filed with the township board. Written comments or objections may be filed with the Township clerk at the address set out below. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that appearance and protest at the public hearing is required in order to appeal the amount of the special Estate Sales For Sale Business Services ESTATE SALE &/OR Ga­ rage Sale: Sat, Sept. 26, 2020. 9am-5pm. 6265 Woods Trail Dr, Delton (on Mud Lake). Tools, fishing & general lawn maintenance. CARRON SPORT AIR Hock­ ey Table. $300.00 OBO. Phone 269-908-1654. KASSON 10FT OAK Pool Table, excellent condition. $1,000.00 or OBO. 269-908­ 1654 BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements, power washing. 269-320-3890. Garage Sale ESTATE SALE &/OR Ga­ rage Sale: Sat, Sept. 26, 2020. 9am-5pm. 6265 Woods Trail Dr, Delton (on Mud Lake). Tools, fishing & general lawn maintenance. Business Services MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. assessment to the State Tax Tribunal within 30 days after the special assessment roll is confirmed. An owner or party in interest, or his/her agent, may appear via Zoom platform at the hearing to protest the special assessment, or shall be permitted to file at or before the hearing (by 12 noon on the day of the hearing) his/her appearance or protest by letter and his/her personal appearance shall not be required. All interested persons or representatives are invited to attend via Zoom platform and to submit comments concerning the reestablishment of the special assessment district, the plans, cost estimates or the carryover of surplus funds. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that if the Township Board determines to proceed with the special assessment, the Board will cause a special assessment roll to be prepared and another hearing will be held, after notice to record owners of property proposed to be specially assessed, to hear public comments concerning the proposed special assessments. Hope Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services at the hearing, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon seven (7) days’ notice to the Township Clerk at the address below. Deborah Jackson Hope Township Clerk 5463 S. M-43 Highway Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 948-2464 hopetwpcl@mei.net �Page 14 — Thursday, September 17, 2020 — The Hastings Banner County meets in closed session on property deal Rebecca Pierce Editor In a rare executive session, the Barry County Board of Commissioners went behind closed doors during an in-person meeting Tuesday “to consider the purchase or lease of real property up to the time an option to pur­ chase or lease that property is obtained.” When the board returned, it unanimously approved minutes taken by Clerk Pamela Palmer during the closed session at the Barry Community’s Enrichment Center’s Leason Sharpe Hall. The contents of the minutes were not made public - nor will they be shared at any time in the future, County Administrator Michael Brown said. The minutes will be sealed and destroyed one year and a day from Tuesday, Brown said. The Hastings Banner made an immediate verbal request to review the minutes under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act and followed up with a written letter asking that the minutes be made public. The county board is required to respond to the FOIA request in five days. But Brown, who is the county board’s FOIA coordinator, responded Wednesday afternoon with a denial, writing, “A public body may exempt from disclosure as a public record under this act ...(d) Records or infor­ mation specifically described and exempted from disclosure by statute. The Open Meetings Act (OMA) Sec. 7(2) provides that minutes from a public body at a closed session are not available to the public and shall only be dis­ closed if required by civil action filed under Sec. 10,11 or 13.” The motion to enter a closed session, made by Commissioner Ben Geiger, was not includ­ ed on the Committee of the Whole agenda. As commissioners left Leason Sharpe Hall Tuesday to convene privately in a nearby con­ ference room, Geiger predicted the closed session would last 5 minutes. Commissioners returned 29 minutes later. Under the state’s Open Meetings Act, closed sessions are allowed for a few specific reasons, such as contract or property negotia­ tions. During the closed session, “there was no formal action...,” Brown said. “It stays in closed session until a formal offer is made. If a formal offer is made, then it becomes pub­ lic.” After the board returned and concluded its open meeting, Geiger said, “I hope to have some very exciting news about an important county facility very soon. By law, I can’t tell you what facility we discussed, but I can tell you it will have a fence about it.” Later that afternoon, Geiger released a writ­ ten statement: “I am not allowed to disclose the issues brought up in closed session. But I can say it’s in the public’s best interest that the board begin discussing them immediately. I hope the county board is able to discuss more publicly very soon.” While he wouldn’t say what was delaying discussion, he remarked, “Maybe we have to talk with some other parties about it. We’re not wasting any time. ...We’re not trying to keep people in the dark.” Geiger added, “It’s highly possibly that we have something on the agenda next week.” In other business, the board heard a budget appeal from county Parks Director Dan Patton who asked the board to restore the funds that had been cut from the $89,000 that had been proposed for county parks and recreation in 2021. Patton asked, in addition to the $76,327 allotted by the administration for the depart­ ment’s budget, that $12,673 be restored, part­ ly to fund a $10 an hour seasonal position to “give us some boots on the ground ...primar­ ily on the trail system” from mid-May to mid-September. Patton urged commissioners to provide this financial support for county parks, which have surged in use during the pandemic. “This summer, it’s been crazy...,” he said. “I’ve been doing this for about 45 years and I’ve never seen the amount of use. .. .In reali­ ty, people are trying to escape COVID. Let’s be honest. I’ve never seen the amount of use that all parks across the system are seeing.” A second budget appeal, by Equalization Director Tim Vandermark, was tabled until next week because Vandermark was unable to attend Tuesday. Vandermark is requesting an increase in the full-time equivalent for a part-time equaliza­ tion clerk. Brown discussed the county’s $18.5 mil­ lion proposed general fund budget with com­ missioners during a free-ranging workshop that touched on video equipment needed in the commissioners’ chambers in the court­ house mezzanine to funds set aside for repairs on the existing jail - and whether that line item should be zeroed out, given the county’s request to voters on Nov. 3 for millage to cover the cost of a new jail and sheriff’s office. Commissioners agreed that the budget for the existing jail could be zeroed out in antici­ pation of a positive voter response to their request not to exceed $25 million over the next 25 years. No action on the budget is needed at this point, Brown told commissioners. Decisions will need to be made on the appeals before the budget can be updated and a public hearing must take place before the board can consider approving it. The commissioners also: • recommended a $144,156 furniture pur­ chase for Courts & Law Renovation project that would provide movable workstations for the Friend of the Court offices, Public Defender offices, first-floor and lower level conference rooms. The Friend of the Court will move from its current location in the county building at 102 S. Broadway to the first floor of the Courts & Law building. The project will include the creation of permanent office space for Public Defender Keri Selleck and two small conference rooms will be created on the first floor while two large conference rooms will be constructed on the lower level. County commissioners have not yet deter­ mined the use for the offices in the building on South Broadway. • recommended renewal of the existing intergovernmental contract with Southwest Behavioral Health Regional Entity, which serves Barry, Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo, St. Joseph and Van Buren. This contract dictates the terms and conditions of the establishment of a substance use disorder oversight policy board. • Agreed to reschedule an interview with William J. Sweeney, who was to be inter­ Barry County Administrator Michael Brown looks over plans that show how the Friend of the Court offices will be incorporated into the county’s Courts and Law Building at 206 W. Court Street in Hastings. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) viewed for a three-year term from 11/1/20 to 10/31/23 to the solid waste oversight commit- tee. Sweeney was unable to attend. The board will reschedule the interview. Some jobs may be gone for good, economists say s Bridge Magazine Massive job losses during the coronavirus pandemic started out as temporary, but now economists are watching a growing concern: Reports are starting to show increasing num­ bers of layoffs that are permanent, a trend that could slow recovery. Waves of temporary job cuts started in March, while state unemployment skyrocket­ ed over months. By June, the unemployment rate hit 14.8 percent, but in July that fell to 8.7 percent, according to the state, following more businesses opening as cases of COVID­ 19 eased. Now hints are emerging that many lost jobs won’t be coming back, economists say. “When the dust settles, and firms reopen ... a lot of people are going to be going back to their automotive manufacturing job, or their construction job or their restaurant job,” said Michael Horrigan, economist at the Upjohn Institute in Kalamazoo. “But many people won’t. “It’s becoming pretty clear that permanent job loss is beginning to increase.” Michigan has recovered about half of the jobs lost to the pandemic, or about 540,000 positions. The state saw 266,000 jobs return in June; job gains fell to 103,000 in July. Across the United States, permanent job losses doubled from 1.4 million to 2.8 million over the last four months, said Michael Hicks, director of Ball State University’s Center for Business and Economic Research. The job loss tops all previous recessions except the Great Recession just over a decade ago, “which was a huge job-killer,” he said. “The presence of permanent job loss extends the recovery period by years, not by weeks or months,” Hicks said. Nationally, about five million workers have left the labor force in just the past few months. Were they included in the jobs report, which includes only people actively looking for work, the unemployment rate would be 2.5 percentage points higher than the 10.2 percent rate for July, Hicks said. Layoff notices provided to Michigan offi­ cials under the federal Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act from mid-March through July 31 show an estimated 6,000 permanent jobs lost in widescale layoffs, compared to about 18,000 tem­ porary layoffs at companies with mass lay­ offs. But many of those temporary layoffs have since become permanent, or employers warn that they may not yield call-backs. The jobs are varied, according to Bridge’s look at Michigan’s WARN filings: Vitro, an automotive glass supplier to the auto industry, is consolidating factories. Its operation in Evart, where it was the sec­ ond-largest employer, will fully close by Labor Day. The total jobs lost, it told the state, comes to 125. Martiz of Southfield, an events organizer for automotive clients, said in a statement from the company that this month it would make five “permanent terminations of employees who had previously been placed on what Maritz reasonably believed at the time would be a temporary layoff.” Greektown Hotel and Casino in Detroit told 621 workers they would lose their jobs in September, saying “significant drags on our business will likely continue for the foresee­ able future.” MAPAL, a precision tool company in Port Huron, in July said it planned permanent lay­ offs of up to 50 people after it continued “to experience a significant, reduced demand for our products and, equally important, an unknown future demand due to the worldwide CO VID-19 pandemic.” Among the employers starting to shift from temporary to permanent layoffs is HMS Host, a food-service operator in the travel industry. It told the state on Monday that 84 workers at the Gerald R. Ford Airport in Grand Rapids will have their jobs eliminated if they’re not called back by Oct. 15. Gabe Ehrlich, a University of Michigan economist, said Yelp gives more hints about long-term job losses. “The fraction of closures that they estimate are permanent has risen over time,” Ehrlich said, with 55 percent of closed businesses listed on the consumer review site saying they will never reopen. “That’s where you start thinking about the permanent scarring,” Ehrlich said. Workers affected by permanent job losses are finding challenges that they never expect­ ed. Restaurant workers, for example, had been in high demand before the pandemic. Universities are announcing layoffs. So are medical centers. Will Emerson, 48, of Eaton Rapids holds a doctoral degree and most recently worked as director of student success for the Michigan Association of State Universities. He learned in June that his job had been eliminated as grant funding evaporated. “I thought I was fairly insulated from lay­ offs,” Emerson said. Now, he’s looking at employment listings daily as his paid insur­ ance is set to expire by the end of the month. He said he’s seeing a lot of hiring freezes. “I have no doubt there will be a lot of folks like me in the job market,” Emerson said. “We’ll be looking while* there’s a decrease in jobs and an increasing pool of job-seekers. That will make it challenging.” That raises questions about recovery, said Ehrlich, the U-M economist. “It’s very difficult to get a sense of where we’re going to be,” he said. “Once the public health situation returns to normal, it’s clear that the economy is not going to return to normal immediately.” Horrigan of the Upjohn Institute said the long-term unemployed worry him most in the jobs data. Like Hicks of Ball State, Horrigan said it’s important to watch the number of unemployed people and the number of people who are out of the job market and not counted among the unemployed. When unemployment runs out, the people who have left the job market then become “reentrants” are-most like4y-to~find. it difficult to find a job. “They’re losing their skills and the long­ term unemployed become less and less attrac­ tive to employers,” Horrigan said. At the peak of the Great Recession, he said, about 45 percent lost jobs for 27 weeks or longer. “That [percentage] came down, but very slowly,” he said. The degree of permanent job losses that we see through the end of the year and into 2021 will ripple through states and communities. It also will influence policy, Hicks said, as offi­ cials confront unemployment benefits while states and municipalities forego tax payments and revenue sharing. Unclear so far is which types of jobs will be lost in Michigan, with analysis just beginning. Most likely, Horrigan said, is that many peo­ ple will have to work on learning new skills to fit available positions. That hasn’t always been the case. Americans older than 50 grew up with recessions that were “short and deep” with robust recoveries, Hicks said. “You became accustomed to peo­ ple being laid off for two, three or four months, and then going back to work.” But recessions in the early 1990s, 2001 and 2007-09 saw sluggish labor market recover­ ies, he said. Policies that could speed recovery would focus on start-ups, new business financing and job retraining, Hicks said. If preliminary data are right, Hicks added, higher income and educated workers will be less affected by permanent job loss. “The real economic damage will be at the lower level, particularly the young people who are unemployed at much higher rates than other workers. “ Hastings City Council appoints new public services director, discusses sidewalk extension Sophie Bates Staff Writer Travis Tate was appointed director of pub­ lic services at the Hastings City Council meet­ ing Monday. Tate, who has more than 15 years of civil engineering experience, was appointed by City Manager Jerry Czarnecki and unani­ mously approved by the Hastings City Council. “Hastings is a wonderful town; I’ve had a chance to work there and visit there and think it’s just a wonderful small town,” Tate said. “I’ve had a lot of engineering experience with city-type projects for several, several years — all kinds of roads and utility projects, site plans — pretty much everything that you’re going to need. “So I hope I can give you some good expe­ rience and some knowledge and some dedica­ tion.” The board also held a public hearing to determine the necessity of a sidewalk special assessment district for the extension of the State Street sidewalk on the west end of Hastings. The sidewalk extension will reach from Cook Road to the Family Dollar on the south side and Industrial Park Drive to Cook Road on the north side. The lowest bidder on this project, Anlaan Corporation of Grand Haven, estimated a cost of $97,778 for the project — $25,128 more than the city’s estimate of $72,650. After the hearing, Resolution 2020-25 was unanimously adopted to establish a special assessment district for the sidewalk extension. A public hearing on the resolution was set for Oct. 12. “This is the first of the public hearings that we have to hold to determine the necessity to have a special assessment district,” Czarnecki said. “This does not set the rule, this does not set what people are going to pay yet. This is just stating that there’s a necessity for it.” The sidewalk extension is estimated to be finished by the end of fall; however, Czarnecki noted pricing could be lower if the project was delayed until spring 2021. The board also considered a recommenda­ tion from Czarnecki and Utility Superintendent Verne Robins to sign a three-year $35,856 contract with HydroCorp — a company that designs cross-connection control programs to prevent chemical or biological contamination in water supplies. The city is required by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy to maintain a cross-connection control program, according to Czarnecki, who explained the program has a tendency to be overlooked. “What’s happened in the past is, as we get busy with emergencies that come up, it’s things like this that we kind of step away from for a little bit; and so this will allow us to get on top of this program,” Czarnecki said. “As we get to the end of the 36 months, the plan is to then reevaluate whether we continue with HydroCorp to move forward, or if we bring this in house and continue to do it with our staff at that point. “But this is an opportunity for us to get someone who’s got over 20 years of experi­ ence in doing these cross-connection control programs, helping us put together a solid program.” Several council members, including Brenda McNabb-Stange, had issues with the HydroCorp contract. Among her list of her concerns about the HydroCorp contract, she cited: the city’s inability to hold HydroCorp accountable for meeting time limits, the lack of a survivability clause and the ability of HydroCorp to terminate the contract on only 30 days’ notice. “I think that Brenda’s got some very good points; and I think before we approve this, that we need to have those questions answered and brought back to counsel,” council mem­ ber Bill Redman said. Czarnecki agreed to have the city attorney look over the contract and address the coun­ cil’s concerns before voting on the contract. The board also approved the Hasting’s Airport Commission Board’s request for $100,000 to install fencing around the air­ port’s perimeter. The airport has had several instances of wildlife, particularly deer, being out on the runways — a hazard for pilots landing or taking off. In other business, the board: • Discussed arrangements to begin holding meetings in person again. • Approved $18,900 for Quality Roofing and Construction to seal the backwash tank at the Drinking Water Treatment Plant. •Authorized Clerk Jane Saurman and Tossava to sign an engagement letter with Hungerford Nichols for auditing services for fiscal years ending June 30, 2020; June 30, 2021; and June 30,2022. • Held a public hearing for the approval of a commercial rehabilitation exemption certif­ icate for 802 W. State St., where a Family Farm and Home is scheduled to open in mid-October. The board also unanimously approved the commercial rehabilitation exemption certificate application, which was supposed to be sent to the state when the board approved the exemption certificate on Aug. 10. •Discussed a recommendation from Czarnecki and Police Chief Jeff Pratt to fore­ go the barricades on Green Street during trick-or-treating to prevent large groups of people from gathering. • Approved the Youth Advisory Council’s request to hold the 20^ Annual Roof Sit on Oct. 17, 2020, from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. with the condition that social-distancing guidelines are enforced. • Issued an official proclamation to recog­ nize that Sept. 17 marks the 233 anniversary of drafting of the United States Constitution. Mayor David Tossava proclaimed the week of Sept. 17 through 23 as Constitution Week. • Adopted Ordinance No. 591, which allows Jane Saurman as city clerk, treasurer and director of finance to send a proxy in the event she cannot attend a Cemetery Preservation Advisory Board meeting. • Approved an address application form and assign fee of $20 per address and a zoning application form and assign fee of $25. • Councilwoman McNabb-Stange men­ tioned concerns about a leaning light pole on Michigan Avenue. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, September 17, 2020 — Page 15 HOPE TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN Financial FOCUS Provided by the Barry County offices of Edward Jones Brandon Wilkins Member SIPC TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF HOPE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN AND ANY OTHER INTER­ ESTED PERSONS: Kevin Beck, AAMS® 400 W. State St, Suite B Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-4702 307 E. Green St., Ste. 1 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269)948-2003 Open enrollment choices can have big financial impact It’s that time of year again, where, if you work for a medium-to-large employer, you’ve got some decisions to make because it’s open enrollment time. Of course, depending on your situation, you may have been working remotely for a while, but, even so, you will likely have the opportunity to review your benefits package and make changes. And you’ll want to make the right moves, because your choices can have a big financial impact on your life. So, take a close look at these key areas of your benefits program: • Health insurance - Think about your health care needs over the coming year - will you or someone in your family be coping with a chronic illness or facing a surgeiy? Will you need to at least consider testing and possible treatment for COVID-19? In any case, make sure you’re choosing the right plan for your needs. And pay close attention to any changes in your health insurance, such as whether the plan’s provider networks have changed - you may want to make sure your own doctor is still in-network. Also, check to see if you can reduce your health care premiums by taking part in a wellness program or health-risk assessment. • Life insurance - Your employer may offer a group life insurance policy for free, or for a small amount. It’s probably worth your while to take this coverage, but it may not be enough for your needs. If you only had this group policy, but your family situation has recently changed through marriage or the addition of a new child, you may well need to add some private insurance. • Disability insurance - In addition to offering group fife insurance, your employer may provide short-term disability insurance as an employee benefit. Like group insurance, . this disability coverage may not cost you anything, but it may not be adequate - typically, short­ term disability only replaces part of your income for three to six months. And while you may never need to miss work for an extended period of time, you never can tell - after all, more than one in four 20-yearolds will become disabled before they retire, according to the U.S. Social Security Administration. You may want to consider purchasing your own long-term disability policy on top of the coverage offered by your employer. • Retirement plan - You can probably make changes to your NOTICE OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENT PUBLIC HEARING - VIRTUAL MEETING WALL LAKE AQUATIC PLANT CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2020-1 401(k) or similar employersponsored retirement plan at any time, but why not look at it now, when you’re reviewing all your benefits? If you can afford to increase your contributions, you probably should, because a 401(k), with its tax advantages and ease of contribution through paycheck deductions, is a great way to save for retirement. At a minimum, put in enough to earn your employer’s match. You’ll also want to review your 401(k)’s investment mix. Is it still providing you with significant growth potential within the context of your individual risk tolerance? Over time, you may need to make some adjustments, either because an investment is underperforming or because you’re getting close to retirement and you need to reduce your risk exposure. In any case, it’s a good idea to check up on your 401(k)’s investments at least once a year. Your employee benefits are an important part of your overall financial picture - so do what you can to get the most from them. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Township Board of Hope Township, as authorized by PA 188 of 1954, as amended, proposes to undertake an aquatic plant control project (with associated activities) on Wall Lake in Hope Township as more particularly described below and to re-establish and continue a special assessment district for the recovery of the costs thereof by special assessment against the properties benefited. The proposed special assess­ ment district will replace the existing special assessment district which district expired in 2019. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the special assessment district within which the foregoing improvements are proposed to be made and within which the costs thereof are to be specially assessed includes parcels with frontage on Wall Lake and/or back lots with access to Wall Lake and including the following tax parcels: WALL LAKE AQUATIC PLANT CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2020-1: The properties indicated by parcel numbers: 07: 028-011-00 029-009-00 029-014-60 029-022-30 029-322-56 032-006-00 032-019-00 032-030-00 033-001-50 060-002-00 060-010-00 060-017-00 060-024-00 110-004-00 110-011-00 110-018-00 110-024-00 110-030-00 120-005-00 120-011-00 120-018-00 120-025-00 120-034-00 120-045-00 120-055-00 250-006-00 250-013-00 250-020-00 250-029-00 250-036-00 250-240-10 270-009-00 270-061-00 270-091-00 270-110-50 340-005-00 340-012-00 340-020-00 340-027-00 360-001-00 360-009-00 360-018-00 360-025-00 360-033-00 360-046-00 360-053-00 360-060-00 360-067-00 360-338-00 029-001-00 029-010-00 029-014-70 029-022-35 029-322-57 032-007-00 032-021-00 032-030-50 033-002-00 060-003-00 060-011-00 060-018-00 060-025-00 110-005-00 110-012-00 110-019-00 110-025-00 110-031-00 120-006-00 120-012-00 120-019-00 120-026-00 120-036-00 120-046-00 120-140-50 250-007-00 250-014-00 250-022-00 250-030-00 250-037-00 270-001-01 270-010-00 270-062-00 270-096-00 270-114-00 340-006-00 340-013-00 340-021-00 340-028-00 360-002-00 360-010-00 360-019-00 360-026-00 360-039-00 360-047-00 360-054-00 360-061-00 360-068-00 029-003-00 029-011-00 029-015-50 029-022-55 029-407-00 032-009-00 032-023-00 032-031-00 033-018-00 060-005-00 060-012-00 060-019-00 060-026-00 110-007-00 110-013-00 110-020-00 110-025-50 120-001-00 120-007-00 120-013-00 120-020-00 120-027-00 120-037-00 120-047-00 250-001-00 250-008-00 250-015-00 250-024-00 250-031-00 250-038-00 270-002-00 270-011-00 270-065-00 270-099-00 270-163-00 340-007-00 340-014-00 340-022-00 340-029-00 360-003-00 360-013-00 360-020-00 360-027-00 360-041-00 360-048-00 360-055-00 360-062-00 360-069-00 029-005-00 029-011-10 029-016-00 029-022-60 032-001-00 032-010-00 032-025-00 032-213-00 033-020-00 060-006-00 060-013-00 060-020-00 060-027-00 110-008-00 110-014-00 110-021-00 110-026-00 120-002-00 120-008-00 120-014-00 120-021-00 120-028-00 120-038-00 120-048-00 250-002-00 250-009-00 250-016-00 250-025-00 250-032-00 250-041-00 270-003-00 270-012-00 270-067-00 270-101-00 270-163-50 340-008-00 340-015-00 340-023-00 340-030-00 360-004-00 360-014-00 360-021-00 360-028-00 360-042-00 360-049-00 360-056-00 360-063-00 360-070-00 029-005-50 029-012-00 029-016-10 029-022-70 032-001-10 032-011-00 032-026-00 032-214-00 033-022-00 060-007-00 060-014-00 060-021-00 110-001-00 110-009-00 110-015-00 110-021-50 110-027-00 120-003-00 120-009-00 120-015-00 120-022-00 120-032-00 120-042-00 120-050-00 250-003-00 250-010-00 250-017-00 250-026-00 250-033-00 250-041-56 270-005-00 270-015-00 270-070-00 270-103-00 340-001-00 340-009-00 340-017-27 340-024-00 340-031-00 360-005-00 360-015-00 360-022-00 360-029-00 360-043-00 360-050-00 360-057-00 360-064-00 360-071-00 029-006-00 029-014-00 029-022-15 029-022-75 032-005-00 032-012-00 032-027-00 032-224-00 033-022-10 060-008-00 060-015-00 060-022-00 110-002-00 110-009-50 110-015-50 110-022-00 110-028-00 120-004-00 120-010-00 120-016-00 120-023-00 120-033-00 120-043-00 120-051-00 250-004-00 250-011-00 250-018-00 250-027-00 250-034-00 250-042-00 270-007-00 270-016-00 270-075-00 270-105-00 340-002-00 340-010-00 340-018-00 340-025-00 340-117-00 360-006-00 360-016-00 360-023-00 360-030-00 360-044-00 360-051-00 360-058-00 360-065-00 360-072-00 029-008-00 029-014-50 029-022-25 029-022-80 032-005-20 032-017-00 032-028-00 033-001-00 060-001-00 060-009-00 060-016-00 060-023-00 110-003-00 110-010-00 110-016-00 110-023-00 110-029-00 120-004-50 120-010-10 120-017-00 120-024-00 120-033-50 120-044-00 120-054-00 250-005-00 250-012-00 250-019-00 250-028-00 250-035-00 250-240-00 270-008-00 270-018-00 270-088-00 270-106-00 340-004-00 340-011-00 340-019-00 340-026-50 340-126-00 360-008-00 360-017-00 360-024-00 360-032-00 360-045-00 360-052-00 360-059-00 360-066-00 360-336-00 See also the accompanying map identifying the proposed special assessment district. By Elaine Garlock The green of soybean fields (hundreds of acres) are fast turning from green to gold. Soon, we will be hearing the harvesters at work. Next, we will be seeing long lines of farm tractors and wagons with their contents piled high at the local elevators. Soon after that the cornfields will be turning from green to brown. Recent obituaries include those of former residents Dorothy Haaksma and Saran Ann Miller. Dorothy was 98, a Sparta resident for many years. While in Lake Odessa, she and her husband John owned Golden Jersey Dairy and he delivered milk house to house. Their daughters were Linda and Bonnie. They lived on the McCaul farm on Washington Boulevard. In her retirement years, Sarah lived at Emerson Manor for several years. She is survived by her brother Ammon “Jiggs” Miller of Pleasant Valley and his family. Workers from the village this week were busy mounting seasonal flags on downtown lamp posts. The new mounts proclaim autumn and replace the summer mounts. Another display of outstanding beauty is at the property of the Stewards, east of Second Street just outside the village limits. There is a large display of assorted flowers, including many cosmos plants. This is a mix of very colorful flowers, sown at random, next to their driveway. Workers this week have blocked Huddle Road with signs indicating roadwork and that the road is not passable for half a mile. This road has the arched concrete bridge over Tupper Creek which empties into Jordan Lake after M-50 and also Meyers Drive. Members of the United Methodist Women of Central UMC meet on Monday for their first meeting in several months to hear Judy Huyhn of Clarksville Road, a member of the LeValley United Methodist Women unit report on her latest mission trip to Kenya to see the work of Heifers International in Africa. Her pictures show several phases of the dairy industry, now possible due to the increased dairy efforts where even farmers with only four cows keep meticulous records. They were milking three times daily. Like farmers here used to do, they were using milk cans which hold several gallons of milk. The pickup vehicle of choice was a type of motorcycle, which could handle three cans. The typical farmer, usually a woman, would have 3 or 4 acres available for pasture. Judy is retired from teaching at the Palo school. Her Linebaugh family grew up in Lyons Township. She reports that son Jason, like his older brothers, graduated from Lakewood High School, and now lives in California near his older brother, Koi. Hope Township ■ » Barry County, Michigan Barry County Land ,nf°X7?JuS>tn2oio/lce PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Board has received plans showing the proposed aquatic plant control project, associated activities, any proposed improvements and locations thereof, together with an estimate of the cost of the project in the amount of $150,000. The cost of the project proposed to be raised by special assessment is the total project cost, less any costs that will be off-set by carryover of surplus funds from the expiring special assessment district. The Hope Township Board has passed a resolution tentatively declaring its intention to undertake such project and to create the afore-described special assessment district. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Board has placed the project plans and costs estimates on file with the Township Clerk and said plans, cost estimates and special assessment districts may be examined at the Clerk’s office from the date of this Notice to the date of the public hearing and may further be examined at such public hearing. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Board proposes to make a per-parcel special assessment each year for a period of five years (2020-2024 inclusive). The annual assessment is proposed to be $70 per year for front lots and $30 per year for back lots. Additionally, the Township Board reserves the right to levy a lesser assessment amount in any year that there are more funds in the special assessment district fund than the amount needed for that year’s aquatic plant control work and associated activities. The Township Board will provide notice of any increase in the assessment amount over 10%, as required by law. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a public hearing on the plans, district, cost estimates and the carryover of surplus funds from the ex­ piring special assessment district will be held via Zoom on September 29,2020 beginning at 6:00 p.m. The log in information to attend the public hearing via Zoom is: Meeting ID: 850 5065 5992 Passcode: 371544 To participate via telephone: (301) 715-8592 or (312) 626-6799. Directions on how to attend and participate via the ZOOM platform are available on the Hope Township website at www.hopetwp.com. Interested parties may participate in the public hearing via Zoom log in or telephone call. Interested parties may also send comments to the Township Clerk up to 12 noon on the day of the public hearing at hopetwpcl@mei.net. At the public hearing, the Board will consider any written objections and comments to any of the foregoing matters that are filed with the clerk at or before the hearing (by 12 noon on the day of the hearing) and any objections or comments raised at the hearing; following the hearing (or any adjournment of the hearing which may be made without further notice), the Towiiship Board may revise, correct, amend or change the plans, cost estimates or special assessment district. CITY OF HASTINGS PUBLIC NOTICE ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 591 The undersigned, being the duly qualified and acting Clerk of the City of Hastings, Michigan, does hereby certify that ORDINANCE NO. 591: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SECTION 57-14 OF THE HASTINGS CODE OF 1970, PERTAINING TO THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE CEMETERY PRESERVATION ADVISORY BOARD. was adopted by the City Council of the City of Hastings at a regular meeting on the 14th day of September, 2020. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that if written objections to the project are filed with the Township Board at or before the hearing, signed by the record owners of land constituting more than 20% of the area within the proposed special assessment district, then the Township Board may not proceed unless petitions in support of the project, signed by record owners of more than 50% of the area to be made into a special assessment district, are filed with the township board. Written comments or objections may be filed with the Township clerk at the address set out below. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that appearance and protest at the public hearing is required in order to appeal the amount of the special assessment to the State Tax Tribunal within 30 days after the special assessment roll is confirmed. An owner or party in interest, or his/her agent, may appear via Zoom platform at the hearing to protest the special assessment, or shall be permitted to file at or before the hearing (by 12 noon on the day of the hearing) his/her appearance or protest by letter and his/her personal appearance shall not be required. All interested persons or representatives are invited to attend via Zoom platform and to submit comments concerning the reestablishment of the special assessment district, the plans, cost estimates or the carryover of surplus funds. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that if the Township Board determines to proceed with the special assessment, the Board will cause a special assessment roll to be prepared and another hearing will be held, after notice to record owners of property proposed to be specially assessed, to hear public comments concerning the proposed special assessments. Hope Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services at the hearing, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon seven (7) days notice to the Township Clerk at the address below. Deborah Jackson A complete copy of this Ordinance is available for review at the office of the City Clerk at City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Hope Township Clerk 5463 S. M-43 Highway Hastings, MI 49058 Jane M. Saurman City Clerk (269) 948-2464 hopetwpcl@mei.net �Page 16 — Thursday, September 17, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Saxons fend off Cardinals for 2-0 start to 1-8 campaign Beck had four goals as the Saxons opened the season last Thursday against Pennfield. Hastings peppered the Pennfield goal with 25 shots, scoring a 10-2 win to start league play. Cook had two goals and Nate Flikkema, Steven Van Ooy, Isaac Oberlin and Kearan Tolles scored one goal apiece. Flikkema had a team-high three assists and Tolles and Beck had two each. Cook and Oberlin recorded one assist each. Saxon goalkeeper Tommy Wickham made four saves in goal for the Saxons. The Hastings varsity boys’ soccer team improved to 2-0 to open the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference season by scoring a 2-1 win over visiting Coldwater on Pierce Field Tuesday. The Saxons opened the game strong defen­ sively, and netted two goals before the half, then carried their strong defensive play into the second half to secure the win. Keegan Cook scored both Saxon goals. Kirby Beck drew a penalty kick or the Saxons, which Cook converted for the team’s second goal. ABOVE: Hastings goalkeeper Thomas Wickham dives to his right to make sure a Coldwater shot bounds safely away from his net during his team’s 2-1 Interstate-8 Athletic Conference win over the visiting Cardinals Tuesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Saxon senior Keegan Cook works to maneuver his way through Coldwater attackers during Hastings’ Interstate-8 Athletic Conference win over the Cardinals on Pierce Field in Hastings Tuesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) AT RIGHT: Hastings’ Nate Flikkema pushes through the midfield with the ball during his team’s win over visiting Coldwater Tuesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEATERS 200 Lafayette St., Middleville Ml 49333 Come Join Us For Our Outdoor Social Distancing Hiring Event NOW HIRING 2nd Shift General Labor Journeyman Machine Repair • Licensed Electricians Wednesday, September 23 • 9 AM -2 PM Tyden Park 404 N. Broadway St., Hastings, Ml 49058 Bradford White Corporation offers great wages and a fantastic compensation and benefit package: Hastings golfers in top three at back-to-back 1-8 jamborees The Saxons improved on their first Interstate-8 Athletic Conference finish in the past week. The Hastings varsity girls’ golf team was fifth at the first conference get-together of the fall, but followed that up with a runner-up finish when the league got together at Marshall Country Club last Wednesday (Sept. 9) and placed third at the league meeting at Binder Park Golf Course Monday (Sept. 14) after­ noon. Hastings senior Rylee Honsowitz led her team to the third-place finish Monday with a score of 47. The Saxon team also got a 54 from Reese Warner, a 57 from Valeria Arias and a 61 from Josie Nickels. Harper Creek won the jamboree at Binder Park with a score of 197, led by the day’s medalist Lauren Reed who shot a 40. Coldwater was second with a score of 215, ahead of Hastings 219, Parma Western 238 and Jackson Lumen Christi 249. Taylor Musselman led Coldwater with a 43. Marshall and Jackson Northwest didn’t have enough golfers competing to earn team scores. The Saxons were just one stroke behind Coldwater (193-194) at last week’s jamboree hosted by Marshall. Harper Creek was third with a 196. Honsowitz shot a 39, finishing two strokes behind Musselman who was the day’s medal­ ist with a 37. Warner fired a 49 for the Saxons, Arias a 51 and Nickels a 55. In between those two conference competi­ tions, the Saxons were bested 178-211 by the Greenville girls at Glennkerry Golf Course Thursday. New season best times for all DK runners in quad at Gilmore Comprehensive medical, Rx, and dental coverage for employees and dependents with NO employee contributions ($0.00 out of your paycheck). Life Insurance and AD&D Plans at no additional costs 401k Plan with 50% employer match Annual $1,000 attendance bonus available 12 paid holidays including your birthday General Labor starting at $15/hour, plus overtime and shift premium, $0.50 increase every 6 months *Must be 18 or older, able to successfully complete pre-employment physical, drug screen and background check. *We will be practicing social distancing in compliance with CDC guidelines Face coverings are also required. The Kalamazoo Christian varsity boys’ and girls’ cross country teams showed off their speed at Gilmore Car Museum during a quad hosted by Delton Kellogg Thursday (Sept. 10), speed the Delton Kellogg runners will have to contend with throughout the Southwestern Athletic Conference season. Parchment had the fastest guy and the fast­ est girl to hit the finish line, but it was the Comets who came in well ahead of the other teams overall. The Comet ladies finished the afternoon with just 25 points, putting six girls among the first ten finishers. Kalamazoo Christian sophomore Anniak Sytsma led her team with a new personal record time of 20 minutes 56.38 seconds, placing second individually. Parchment junior Mary Dow was the individual champ in the girls’ race with a time of 19:52.01. Delton Kellogg was led by the duo of juniors Halena Phillips and Aubrey Aukerman. Phillips placed 11th in 22:52.60 and Aukerman 12th in 22:53.62. DK had sophomore Joelle White 23rd over­ all in 24:47.47 and sophomore Kasey Kapteyn 24th in 24:57.83. DK’s fifth scorer was fresh­ man Brea Chandler who placed 28th in 26:04.97. All six Delton Kellogg girls ran their fastest race of the season, with sopho­ more Amber Barton finishing in 29:19.13. Paw Paw was second in the race with 59 points, ahead of Parchment 72 and Delton Kellogg 81. The Kalamazoo Christian boys won their race with 24 points. Parchment was second with 43 points, ahead of Delton Kellogg 68 and Paw Paw 77. Parchment junior Garrett Winter was the individual champion in the boys’ race with a time of 17:18.22. Delton Kellogg senior Micah Ordway was the runner-up in 17:35.72. Delton Kellogg had all ten of its runners in the boys’ race set new season or personal best times in the race. Sophomore Hector Jimenez was the second guy in for DK, placing sixth in 18:29.18. Micah Martin, a sophomore, placed 16th overall for DK in 20:01.14, junior Austin Blocker 20th in 20:26.79 and junior Eli Austin 24th in 21:20.18. Junior Isaac Bos from Kalamazoo Christian led the Comet boys to the team win with a runner-up time of 17:35.72. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-10-01.pdf ad3ab729f32395fc5962657331f1a027 PDF Text Text Are Ainer,Ca"s willing and See Story on Page 3 vote? Saxons beat Titans for first time ever See Story oh Page 16 See Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 43312557 1070490102590500206149058113421 ANNER r, , CAR-RTLOT"C005 COOS Richard Hemerimg W N Taffee Dr Hasings Ml49055-1134 60020219 47 00 AM -^^ay^October K2020 PRICE $1.00 VOLUME 167, No. 39 Throat-slitting assailant gets ©light- to 15-year sentence Hastings hosting Girls’ Night Out tonight Several downtown Hastings businesses are offering specials, perks and fun for shopper^ and diners 5-8 p.m. tonight, Oct. I. in celebration of Girts’ Night Out. Phe annual fall shopping and dining event, hosted by the Hastings Downtown Business Team, also includes a scarecrow contest. Embracing the new normal, the theme this year is “Masking in the Moonlight.’’ Shoppers are encouraged to I be creative with their face masks for a | chance to win the Best Mask Contest. Participating businesses include Alfresco. Barlow Florist, Gilmore Jewelers. Hastings Ace Hardware. Hastings Sweeper Shop. Hodges Jewelry and Gifts. Hungry Howie’s Pizza, Kloostcrman’s Sports Tap, Mexican I I Connexion, Porcelain Classics/Bee Eclectic. Previously Pink. Prudential I Financial Dustin Mead. Sunset Mine | .Antiques. Taunia’s Treasure Trunk. The 1 General Store. The Sugar Ribbon, I Trumble Agency, Coder the Sun Tanning J and Walidorft Brew Pub & Bistio. In addition. Spectrum Health Pennock S staff will have information on women’s c health. More information van be found al shop- J downtownhast ing s .com. Blood drive in Hastings today Plasma from whole-blood donation-, made through Lhe American Red Cross that test positive for COVID-19 antibodjo may now help current coronavirus patients in need of convalescent plasma transfusions. Donors are encouraged to make an appointment to give blood or platelets now to help ensure coronavirus patients and others who depend on transfusions have needed blood products this fall. The First Presbyterian Church of Hastings, 405 N. M-37 Highway, will host a drive today from noon to 5:45 pan. Then. Thursday. Oct. 15, from II a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Outreach Christian Church. 7831 N. Jordan Lake Road. Lake Odessa, will host a drive. All blood types are needed. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in Individuals who are age 17 or older, weigh at least J10 pounds and are in generally good health may lx* eligible to donate blood. The Red Cross encourages eligible individuals to schedule an appointment, download the free Blood Donor App. visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 800-733-2767. As his shackled victim watches^ Krebs says hefs sorry to an incredulous courtroom Taylor Owens Staff Writer David Krebs II was sentenced to eight to 15 years in prison by Barry County Circuit Judge Vicky Alspaugh Tuesday. Krebs, 30. of Vermontville, was found guilty of assault with intent to commit great bodily harm in July, for slitting the throat of 28-year-old /Anthony Collins of Middleville, and stabbing him multiple times on Sept. 5, 2019. Collins was the in the front passenger seat of a moving car, traveling on Barber Road, and Krebs was the in the back passen­ ger seat, when the attack occurred. Krebs testified he was high on meth and LSD w hen the attack occurred. Collins is currently facing a charge of fail­ ure to pay child support, and was brought from the Barry County Jail to lx present for the sentencing. He wrote a statement, which was read aloud by Assistant Prosecutor Jessica Payne. “What David did to me has impacted me in many different aspects of my life,” Payne read, as Collins sat shackled next to her, with his head down. "1 guess the biggest aspect would be that the mother of my child does not let me see my daughter, as this has only made things 100 limes worse.” Collins detailed his experiences with post-traumatic stress disorder. He wrote that lie often wakes up al night in a cold sweat. “When I do sleep, I always have bad dreams - mostly of someone stabbing me... I relive it every day. every night. I’m always watching my back, because I always think that someone is behind me, and 1 always feel paranoid, or out of place.” “My back always hurts, no matter what. I cannot feel my throat. And I trust absolutely nobody. I refuse to sit in the passenger seat of any car, if there is anyone in the back, even if it is my best friend.” Collins said he tried counseling, but it did not help him. He continues to struggle with a -It’s his desire for the court to believe that, somehow or another. ••• he (Collins) slit his own throat and stabbed himself in the back.... And for Mr. Krebs to expect the court to believe that... is ridiculous.’ _ Barry County Circuit Judge Vicky Alspaugh during the sentencing'bf David Krebs II *’ meth addiction. “David was trying to murder me for no reason at all. And if I <lidn t fight for my life, he would have succeeded, and I wouldn’t be alive to say ‘I love you’ to my daughter.” His statement ended by thanking Jackie Hawkes, the woman who wrapped his neck and called 911 after he walked into her home and collapsed that night. “If not for her, I would be dead. She is the true hero of the situation. My family (hanks you, Jackie, as well as me." “Today in court, Anthony is very much the victim.” Pay ne said, iftr finishing Collins* statement. “Even thou ’hhis physical injuries have healed, the mcnUtleffcci has not .” Payne argued that hn’bs isadenger to the community. She pointed but he was on bond for a separate assault when he attacked Collins. "He still refuses to take imy responsibility for what happened, and still is acting like he is the victim,’’ Payne said "He wants to still claim in his pre-sentence report that he was acting in self-defense.” Krebs also successfully passed through the Barry' County Adult Drug Court treatment program, before relapsing. He had been using meth every day for approximately nine months before the attack. ”1 don’t know what else we can do for Mr. Krebs." Payne said. She asked Alspaugh to sentence Krebs to 10-15 years in prison. Defense Attorney James Kinney acknow I Special use for family trucking business denied by planning b©ardl International Life Chain linking here Sunday Hastings will be connected to the International Life Chain Sunday. Oct. 4, along with more than 1 500 U.S. and Canadian cities and towns. People who believe in life will be lining the streets of Hastings with pro-life signs while praying for the end to abortion in America. I be Hastings event will be from 2:15 to 3.30 p.m. Area participants arc encouraged to meet in the county parking i°l ntXl 10 1 *c Barry County Friend of Court on the somhwest comer of State and Broadway tn downtown Hastings at 2:15 p.m . rain or shine. Participation is open to people of I) ages Ijkwn chairs and/or umbrella* we svc ' People passing by also an: web ome to join at any lime - Cifc Chain par- See NEWS BRIEFS, page 2 Lloyd Hudson (left) attends the Barry County Planning Commission meeting Monday =x“ a™ ■ “’r “• J ’center) and Sharon Hudson- Neighbors confront^ each other over^ application for_ Johnstown Township property Luke Froncheck Staff Writer A family trucking business that US‘- • residential area as a base for its t^.^ 21 be permitted to continue that use, (he R no‘ County Planning Commission ruled Monday^ Suzan and Miller operate their business fn)in l’,eir Jo'1nstown Township prcZty. which is «Wd rural residential, according to JoW""h,P c<^- enforcement officer Joyce l lK,n “We just wa,lt ‘ to park our trucks in our parking Miller told planning commission ineninf , Monday night during a meeting »t Commissi°ncr J , *,nermade the motion to deny the 0,1 helions ot the county 1 <l .j!?1 Pr°hihi( special use requests if'1,e 1!^„' "^''"ely affect the quality ot lif‘ ',,r sun“"ndmg residents. See SPECIAL USE, page 12 David Krebs II waits to be sentenced, while Defense Attorney James Kinney confers with Barry County Assistant Prosecutor Jessica Payne. (Photo by Sophie Bates) edited that "Mr. Krebs is not an angel,’’ and w hat he did was wrong, but he pul much of the blame on Collins. ‘To paint Anthony Collins as a completely innocent victim,. w ho just happens to have a drug problem, is not appropriate,” Kinney said. I think that Mr. Collins must take some re.sptmobility... He wants the court-to say he’s an innocent victim, but he’s not.” "You just don’t go around, hanging around people shooting up methamphetamine all over Barry County.” Kinney emphasized that Collins gave Krebs LSD, which he took prior to the attack. According to the law, if a person gives a Schedule 1 substance - such as heroin, LSD. methamphetamine -- to another person, which leads to a death, the person who provided the drug can be charged with a felony, Kinney said. "Remember, the testimony of Mr. Krebs,” Kinney said, "lie testified that he did this in self defense, because Mr. Collins attacked him with the knife. Now' we all know the jury did not agree with that, but that was his claim.” Kinney said. "What happened, although it was very egregious, part of it was precipitated by Mr. Collins’ own actions.” Judge Alspaugh asked Krebs if he wanted to say anything. *. “Yeah. I just want to apologize to AnthonyC his family, my family , and the public,” Krcb$, said. « *• ' He included first responders and the com­ munity in his apology. "Thank you for y our patience with the situ­ ation. and Mr. Kinney as well,” Krebs said to the judge. Alspaugh did not find Krebs’ apology con­ vincing. “Just saying I’m sorry’’ is not remorse.” she said. “It’s clear that Mr. Krebs is not demonstrating remorse.” She said she also did not believe his testi­ mony that he had acted in self-defense. “The explanation given by Mr. Krebs as to how this happened is tint in any way credi­ ble.” Alspaugh said. See SENTENCE, page 2 Scams teget sectors m area; police ask residents to fee alert Rebecca Pierce Editor It typically starts with a call or email that appears to be legitimate from a stranger who says something’s wrong with an account or a pay ment or a grandchild. The demand is always the same: Corrective action is required - immediately - to resolve the problem. Send cash. Michigan Slate Trooper Brian Roderick of the Way land Post offers this advice: Don’t do it. On Friday, an 83-year-old widow in 1 fastings w ithdrew $15,IKK) in cash from her hank account - wrapped it in foil and packed it Io look like books - and sent it to (he per­ son who called and told her there was a problem with her Social Security account. Il was a icam and it’s one of the top frauds being perpetrated in Barry County now, Roderick said. In this particular scenario, the fraudster poses as a benefits investigator who calls elderly jxroplc and tells them there is a prob­ lem with their Social Security accounts. 1 hey provide a number for victims to call to “resolve” the issue. “In the last six to seven months, this is the third case of the Social Security scam that I’ve seen - and it’s the first where they actu­ ally got the money, which makes me mad. Roderick said Tuesday. "It’s always between S1().(XX) and$15.(XX).” The attempt in March, which targeted an elderly woman in Hastings in an efiort to steal S1 -I t5(X) from her, was caught by Came 1 .aralk'e. manager of Printing Plus, \vhcn s ie asked questions alxnit the parcel *uiu shipped. , ,. . Roderick said the scammers had told the victim to lie if anyone should ask het qu«.s (ions. Michigan State Trooper Brian Roderick ofrets advice Io Hastings area residents who are receiving calls purporting lo be from government or business officials who appear to be legitimate - but aren’t. If the shipping company asked any ques­ tions. she w as to say she w;l% sending a book to her family When the bank asked why she was with­ drawing so much money in cash, she told them it wa> lor projects around the hoibe. That scam in M.neh was blocked, the stale trooper said, and the circumstances in that case had somethin!’ in common w iih the See SCAM, page 12 �Page 2 — Thursday. October 1, 2020 — The Hashngs Bonne' Mural project on display at Thornapple Plaza The sun emits light from Barry County in this panel, one of 10 two-sided displays. A depiction of vegetation growing over a stream is well-suited for the art display at the plaza near the Thornapple River. (Photos provided) SENTENCE, continued from Pa&e 1 .... It s his desire for the coin1— 1 helicvelhlM, was t),c somehow or another, when slit his one with a knife in his hand- lh»> U)C b;lck. own throat and stabbed him*" stxn But he gives no explanation as >° n' e it or how it happened. , court to And for Mr. Krebs to exP*< n ,fs believe that that’s the case i* rldlC kind of insulting." , driver. She pointed oui that the vet»c■ Sara Dalton King, and backseat P^'"8did ally. Smith, did not testify that Coll>ns thing before Krebs slit his tlra>»‘d wj(h The victim was attacked frojnJ)U virtually no warning," she said, we )k about an attack that began wl* uiliple stab throat and then progressed on to muU'P wounds.” " K . Alspaugh also acknowledged that re^s had previously gone through ® Court treatment program, and faded t the skills he learned there. . „.,.,nsc “You allowed yourself not Just o relapse, but to sink into an abyss of. drug Alspaugh said. She cited Krebs dm y use. "That’s not a relapse.That s » >'b Alspaugh also noted the role of H* saving Collins’ life. . M ”1 think Mr. Krebs is very j Hawkes didn’t lock her front door. think that’s the only thing that got Mr- 1 to the help he needed quickly enough ad that door not been opened and he had to s there and knock, odds are he would ha c consciousness and bled out on her stepAll of those points and more were not reflected in the sentencing gu,dc!ine"’ Alspaugh said. The guidelines for Krebs cor viction called for 34 to 83 months inon“^ ,n prison. She chose to sentence him to 100 to 180 months. ‘‘Mr. Krebs, as he currently is, is a danger to the community,” Alspaugh said. She also sentenced him to 24 to 36 months for resisting arrest. After the attack. Krebs tied and hid in some bushes until a Barry County Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit pulled him out. The sentences are to be served concurrent­ ly. with 390 days’ credit for previous time served. Alspaugh also ordered Krebs to pay $998 in court fines and fees. Payne declined to comment on the case, although Prosecutor Julie Nakfoor-Pratt was present for the sentencing and gave a state­ ment. Stiff Writer In a year when community gatherings have .been put on hold, and festivals and events ’canceled. City of Hastings and Thomapple Arts Council staff members decided it’s still important to bring the arts to the community, ;evcn if it looks a little bit different. . Dan King, community development •director for the City of Hastings, said the group of arts council and city employees who ‘normally work on Hastings Live summer entertainment program decided instead to focus on a new public art display this year. “ This is not our first public art display, but it is certainly our largest and most dynamic,” King said in a Sept. 30 press release. “We haled to have to cancel the Hastings Live performances.” Arts Council Executive Director Megan Lavell said, “so we wanted to bring in a different program that got people to the Thomapple Plaza without drawing a large crowd so we can continue to be cautious about CO VID 19." Lavell said arts council and city staff decided to ask Nashville artist Shari Carney if she would be interested in helping bring the panel s to life, and she jumped at the chance to work on her largest project yet. Carney said it took her more than 80 hours to complete the 320-square-foot project. “Tliis project was by far the most ambitious undertaking in my career as an artist,” Carney said. *T was entrusted with the development of the concepts and given full rein on the compositions, color choices and execution. “Jri many ways, (it was) a drcam come true with a few moments of nightmarish terror as I now have a love/hatc relationship with spray paint. I’m grateful to have been chosen for this project and hope community members enjoy the results. Uvell said it lakes a village to bring together arts and cultural programming, and this time was no exception. Hastings resident and arts council board member Jeff Buehl built the display structures for the panels, and the city’s Department of Public Services employees installed the project at the Thomapple Plaza. The 10 two-sided panels are on display at the Thomapple Plaza and will be there for the foreseeable future. King said. “We hope people will take advantage of this really unique art installation,” he added. “We are really excited to present this to the community.” More information about the community murals can be found on the City of Hastings, Hastings Live, or Thomapple Arts Council Facebook pages or thomapplearts.org. City’s planning commission to meet Monday The Hastings Planning Commission’s virtual monthly meeting will begin at 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 5.The commission will vote on a site plan for outdoor sales, which would allow local businesses to display products outside their store fronts, City Manager Jerry Czarnecki said. The planning commission also will be given an overview of the Michigan Economic Development Authority's Redevelopment Ready Communities program, which the city is pursuing. Members of the public may attend the meeting virtually via a link on the city’s website. “Mr. Krebs, as he currently is, is a danger to the community," Barry County Circuit Court Judge Vicky Alspaugh says before sentencing David Krebs. (Photo by Sophie Bates) “As far as I’m concerned," Nakfoor-Pratt said, “justice was served,” Thwoapple Manor goes 15 days without COVID-19 cases Taylor Owens Nashville artist Shari Carney used spray paint as the medium to fill the 320 square feet of panels standing on display structures built by Hastings resident Jeff Buehl. Anlhony Collins listens while Barry County Assistant Prosecutor Jessica Payne reads his statement to the court Tuesday. David Krebs slit Collins throat ana s a e him 11 limes. “I relive it every day, every night,” Collins wrote. (Photo by Sophie Bates) The COVID-1? outbreak at Thomapple Manor has been declared over, after 15 days without any positive tests. Administrator Don Haney said. The Barry County senior living facility recorded 21 cases between Aug. 27 and Sept. 15. Tho?»e cases involved 12 staff members and nine residents who presented only minor symptoms, Haney said. Staff members have returned to work. Thornapple Manor will begin accepting new patients today, and Haney said there are more people on the waiting list than there are beds available. The facility will continue taking precautions as if everyone who walks in the door is positive for COVID-19, he said. When cases were first reported, residents at the county owned facility were moved into an isolation unit, and staff members who tested positive did not report to work. All of (he cases occurred in the rehabilitation unit of the senior care facility, which is separate from the rest of the building. Haney said he is not aware of any connection between the cases at Thomapple Manor and the two recent deaths reported in Barry County. The state’s ‘‘Long Term Care Data” site on Michigan.gov showed that, as of Sept. 24. Thomapple Manor had nine cases among residents and 14 cases among staff members, with no deaths at the facility due to CO VID- FoltowThI Hastings Banner on Facebook to keep up to date until the But two of those staff members who showed as testing positive were from tests carlier this year, which Haney said are believed to have been false positives, The remaining cases noted on that state website occurred since/lug. 27. NEWS BRIEFS continued from front page ticipants follow a code of conduct that respects all motorists and pedestrians. Additional information can be obtained by calling Marly Preston 269-948-8834. Hastings Life Chain is being sponsored by Barry County Right to Life. Participants register for the race, com­ plete their race distance, and then upload their time on the race app. Registration and the app are available at ItsYourRace.com. Help for Holidays Depression screening signup begins Oct. 5 available National Depression Screening Day is Oct. 8, but the Barry County Community Mental Health Authority offers depression screening all year long. in promoting the national day of aware­ ness. staff at BCCMHA welcomes anyone having a difficult time, who is not currently receiving menial health services, to contact them Oct. 8. or any other day or month. Services are available by calling 269-948­ 8041 or stopping in al the offices. 500 Barfield Drive, Hastings. PCCI trail run going virtual Pierce Cedar Creek Institute's annual “Over the Creek and Through the Woods" trail run will stretch over two weeks in October. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the run will have a virtual formal. Participants may complete the race at any location any time between Oct. 3 and IS. The event consists of a 5K. I OK and 15K run or walk.The com is $30 for adults. S15 for kids age 6-18, and free lor kids under 5 years old. Registration is open through Oct. 17. Those who register after Sept. 25 will not be guaranteed until after Oct. 18. Participants will receive a cookie tree medal and a spe­ cial swag bag. Help for the Holidays, a Barry County program coordinated by Barry County Cares, helps people in need at Christmas time. Barry County Cares connects individuals and families with churches, organizations, businesses and others who provide help, such as food for a family or toys for chil­ dren. Sign-up is Oct. 5, to Nov. 25. Locations for sign-up, based on home address, include: Hastings and Middleville addresses: Barry County Cares, call only, Monday through Friday. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.; 269-948­ 9555. Delton addresses: Delton District Library Monday, Wednesday, Friday. 9 a.m .-5 pjn.. Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m.-6 pinSaturday, 9 a.m.-l p.m.; 269-623-8040. Nashville addresses: Village clerk’s office Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m-. (closed Wednesday and Friday, noon to 1 p.m.); 517-852-9544. Freeport addresses: Call Freeport United Methodist Church. 616-765-5316, leave name and number. Residents at all other Barry County addresses may call Barry County Cares. 269-948-9555. Those wishing to “adopt” a family contact Barry County Cares. 269-948-9555. More information is available by calling Iina Horrigan at 269-948-9555 or emailing barD‘-ountycares@yahoo.coni. Look for Voters’ Guide Oct. 8 Hastings Bunner readers are asking for their 21)20 Voters' Guide and that soecial lion will be expedited this year, due to popular demand. ’* * The guide - which will be included in the Oct. 8 edition of the Banner - will pro'W« “ comprehensive rundown of races and issues on the ballot in Barry Couniv l h< intent of the grade is to provide the information residents need to help them W| «ell informed voters We re interested tn your input. Questions? Call us at 269-945-955*1 or email cditor<«’j-adgraphics.com. u~ 7 �Thentibiings Har>lingsuannor Bannor— —ininsaayj Thursday,ucioiwr October<(1, 2020~ — Page - 3 H w Historic Charlton Park campground under consideration, raises concerns . The Birrv Sophie Bates Shi(f Writer concerns from local <V-vdonh °*’*** SS ,he "'"’■’’ission bevan Charll^"L ’kC,.,”“P' ■”»» for a Histiric 'Anrsdaj rvciiing""PgJ°Unit 'hc mecl"’g inoscum'm'i 310ncrf historic village. Caroni nr. r 1 rtfcreation an:» has a temporary vnmpr^ uccnsc |or spedi| cwn|s sfch «igine siww"^""'1'1' or gas an<1 ',eani „n't*0 '-.or *5 years that I’ve been cnnnt V< ’ anyt‘nic Wc do a strategic plan or •? n,aster plan, camping is always one of rhJ enis t,1:u riscs ,o l,le t0P- DaryI ■ cl,a*rnwn of the corimission, r'l I*°P1C nsk why do uc need camping larlton Park, it’s because the residents of ft tn? ounty and people coming in from them" °Ul re^uest,nK uc provide that for The commission said it hopes to receive tunding tor the project through the Michigan department of Natural Resources and has brought in Ben Baker, a landscape architecture manager at Wightman, to assist. There are currently no concrete plans for the campground. Factors such as location, number ot campsites or bathrooms, energy service and timeline are undetermined. However, the campground would likely be seasonal — opening sometime in May and closing in October. The commission is considering using land olT River Road as the location. A group of local campground owners, organized by Eric Schaefer of Indian Valley Campground in Middleville, expressed concern that a campground at Charlton Park would hurt their business. Campground owners were particularly concerned the millage — which is used to fund the park’s everyday operational costs — also would be Ben Baker, a landscape architecture manager at Wightman, presents an aerial view of potential campground sites. used Id fund the campground. “We arc definitely concerned about the idea of literally paying for competition - which is Daryl Cheeseman. president of the Barry County Parks and Recreation Commission, and Dan Patton, director of Historic Charlton Park, listen to the concerns of local camp­ ground owners regarding the creation of a campground at Charlton Park. not OK by any means. And I don’t think anybody here that owns a campground would think that’s OK. to have money taken from our taxes to pay for >ou guys to, you know, have a campground, Schaefer said. It is not the commission s intention to use millage to fund the campground, Checseman said in an interview with the Banner Wednesday. Without a conceptual plan for acampground. the commission cannot estimate how much the project would cost or where the money would come from. However, the maximum DNR grant the project can receive is $300,000 with a 25pcrcent match — which means, if awarded the maximum grant, the project would need a minimum of $100,000 in additional funding, Baker said. Cheeseman responded to citizens’ concerns with an expression cf optimism that a campground at Historic Charlton Park could benefit surrounding buinesses. "One of the thing? I'lhhik the board wants to do is ensure the economic vitality is spread among everyone," Cheeseman said. "I would actually venture to argue that it would help the surrounding campgrounds because I believe there is an opportunity to grow something here that expands opportunity for everybody else." Eric Schaefer, manager of Indian Valley Campground, questions Ben Baker about the possibility of a campground. What’s g©©©5 for the goose at Girls’ Night Out? The qoose is cooked in this entry for the Hastings Downtown Business team scarecrow contest, outside of Al and Pete's Sport Shop on South Jefferson Street. The fowl scarecrow is one of many that will greet shoppers tonight during Girls’ Night Out. HHS marching band playing shortened season One of the longest-running scholastic marching band competitions in Michigan aic« « n r .ho nnlv one in the cinto The bno of the band’s stronger season-starting performances in many year‘n Jr Sh°^ Jhe Saxon?68 Rn,J?t,|°?i rS° was °n^ nmewhat The DeWitt invitational was canceled, and now HastinncS' nhe said' The MaLch„i Oct 17 AiSCheu u^d changed s0^^been canceled. (Photo provided) St,nQS Wl)l Perform at Vicksburg Oct. 17. Also, the Oct. 11 indoor concert m Blame rm See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits ELECT JOE BIDEN NOVEMBER 3rd �Pago 4 — Thursday, October 1 2020 — The Hastings Banner Did you SCC 7 A donation to the City of Hastings has ‘paved the way for new playground . equipment at Tyden Park. The equiptment is being paid for by a $74,000 donation from the Douglas A. and , Margaret E. DeCamp Foundation. . Hastings City Manager Jerry Czarnecki •said Tuesday. Of that. $50,000 went < toward the new playground, and $24,000 •went toward a specialized wheelchair swing. The equipment was obtained I through a grant from Sinclair Recreation of Holland through GameTime play­ ground equipment. Czarnecki said if the equipment is ordered in the winter, the company gives a 50 percent discount because the order gives its employees work during a lull in production. The proj­ ect has been of no cost to the city. Czarnecki said he hopes to utilize a sim­ ilar process in the future. Do you Are Americans willing C ooler nights, changing colors and gently falling leaves ... who doesn’t enjoy the tran­ sition to the fall season? Each wondrous fall, though, also brings the realities and, especially this season, the anxieties of an election. Voting hits been an American right and privilege. The Pounding Fathers put forth that a political democracy lives only by the freedom of its citizens to speak, publish, worship and organizx* without interference, which is stated as such in the First Amendment to our Constitution. With just over a month to go before Election Day, our nation faces some new challenges and voting procedures. We will be voting Nov. 3 amid the coronavirus pan­ demic. a frightening reality that has seen a rise in absentee voting and related concerns about the U.S. postal system delivering those ballots on time. In addition, a recent report from the Pew Research Center indicates many citizens are concerned about the election being conduct­ ed fairly and that all citizens who want to vote will be able lo do so. It’s imperative that the electorate has confidence in the system, and we expect officials to safeguard election security. Despite the virus, fears of postal delays, and already-threatened legal issues even before the vote has been taken, we still face an equally troubling obstacle to the American voting process. As in every elec­ tion. millions of Americans who can vote will choose not to. The reasons are vast, from being apathetic or too busy or being just plain frustrated. 'Die excuses that should concern us more come from voters who say they don’t like their choices, they don’t I think their vote matters, they think the sysI tern is corrupt, or they have no clue who’s remember? Extended Extension connection , Bunner Sept. 13. 1978 Fifty-plus years - Members of the ; Barry County Extension program for 50 or more years were honored at Rally Day Tuesday in the Thornapple Foundation Lodge at the Community . Camp al Algonquin Lake. Carol Potter (left), chairman of the day’s program, and Mrs. Doris Richardson, (right) Barry •County Extension director, presented pins to Inez Ford of the Kingsley group, . who joined in 1919, and Lillian Leinaar, who also joined the Kingsley group in 1919. Others honored for 50 years of ■ membership not present for the photo include Clara Pufpaff, East Baltimore, ■ 1924; Marie Valentine, Carlton Center: and Celia Will, who started in Kalamo I and is now a member of U-Shar-lt, ' joined in 1925. [The former Kingsley • School was at the corner of Stuck and Leinaar roads, in Barry Township, likely the neighborhood of the Extension . group, as well.] Have you met? When Sophie Bates landed her first full­ time job writing for the Hustings Banner and Reminder, she was ecstatic: she’d wanted to be a writer for as long as she could remember. Now it’s official. Bates, 22. grew up in Erie, in Monroe County, with her parents, Tim and Jami Bates, and older sister. Chloe. She had a charmed childhood filled with camping trips, boat rides, hound dogs and books. After a day of sunshine and play she used to lounge sleepily in her bottom bunkbed, listening to her father read stories of far-off places and daring adventurers. It was in these early years that Bates’ love for writing was forged. She used to fill notebooks — many of which she still has — with novel ideas, short stories and plot lines. She remembers distinctly the first time she came up with a story idea. She was in third .grade, riding home from school, with her head leaning against the bus window as sunshine poured in. When the idea appeared in her mind, she felt a rush of creativity and imagination; although the idea itself was .highly derivative — essentially a rip-off of the book she was reading at the lime — Bates had settled on her life’s passion, even if she didn’t know it then. » Written words became her constant companions; she carried txxiks to school each day and. in every spare moment, she read furiously. As she grew older. Bates’ love of books —- more accurately, storytelling — manifested in a variety of forms: music, theater, film, art and photography — virtually anything that told a story or, better yet. allowed her to tell one. Bates, a self-defined recovering perfectionist, strives for excellence in all of her pursuits. In high school she was class president, first flute, student council president, cross-country and track team captain, musical lead, choir assistant and more. Her college career at Central Michigan University was no different; she was one of approximately 50 Leadership Advancement Scholars chosen from a pool of more than 3/XX) students, she interned al CMU’s communications department, wrote for a digital magazine and was the vice president of the photography club. In May, she graduated magno cum laude with a bachelor s degree, having majored in journalism with minors’ in leadership and broadcasting and cinematic arts. Of course, COVJD-19 pul quite a damper on her graduation. She went home for spring break in March and never returned to CMU, finishing the last half of her classes online. She didn’t get to say goodbye to her friends ffrtm Grounds for accessible fun Sophie Bales □ ever met She spends much of her free time hiking, listening to podeasts, reading, doing yoga and is currently learning her to play video games. Favorite movie: “1917." 1 saw it three times in theaters and love the writing, aesthetics, characters, score and — shout out to the incredible Roger Deakins — cinematography. Person I’m glad to have met: Two of my college journalism professors. Edgar Simpson and Kent Miller. They gave me some of the best guidance I’ve ever received, pushed me, encouraged me and,occasionally, showed me tough love. They also gave me the space and time I need to create two pieces of work I am incredibly proud of. If I could have any superpower, it would be: The ability to pause time. Life moves so fast and there is so much we miss. Something on my bucket list: Climb a mountain. What the world needs now is: Grace. The world would be a much better place if. instead of punishing people for their mistakes, we showed them compassion. It is incredible how much people can grow when they receive external love and support. I wish we did that more. I’m most proud of: My ability to change. Something most people don’t know about me: I once won a worm-spitting competition - it was awesome. t Person I most admire: My M'ml- Mv grandmother had severe Alzheimer’s for most of my childhood so 1 never really met her; but I can tell what an incredible person she was by the way my family about her She raised four after her husband s death, but lhe hardships of hfe never robbed her of hcr ioy. She always wore bright colors, cared for others and lived hie u> the fullest. | hope 1 become like her one or hug her favorite professors. Even her diploma arrived by mail bent and rather unceremoniously: but she was deeply grateful for the opportunity to spend extra time with her family. Despite her lackluster senior year, Bates said she feels lucky. She graduated with a clear sense of direction and the skills needed to build her career She spent her four years at CMU amassing a wealth of knowledge and experience in writing, photography and videography — the three pillars of her storytelling abilities — and has a clear idea of what she wants out of her career. The transition into post-college life was difficult, especially after months of quarantine. However, she’s been met with a supportive stall at J-Ad Graphics and kindness from the community. After only a A book I’d rvconi^nnd- "Rules for a feu weeks, she’s received lots of positive, Knight" by Ethan Hawke baseJ 'hC uplifting feedback from readers and is story off a |etk.r fr( anCestor Sir thrilled to see how engaged Hastings Ihomas Lemuel Hawk. Hawke wr0,e ,he residents arc with their local news. letter in 14X3 OI1 ^ ' ^le he knew While she enjoys the fast-paced work of he would not survive Th tetter i>«’his four newswriting. her ultimate dream is to work children, and in it h |C" < to them the for a magazine, writing long-form stories Tnhe'b^U."!,n, '’■•'“"s’B lean^ in life. about issues and people she cares deeply The book brings me tn > ^very about In her time at CMU. she also ’f^lcould^^ore inches. discovered a passion for the inexhaustible variety of cultures and cx|K*ricnces the world Each week, th., a , , ''ho has to oiler. She hopes her exploratory nature and love of travel will eventually be ^ntecmc who du)uu Vidttnh’cr work, fu,. . he fi,r the incorporated into her career. >ther She currently lives in Caledonia with her Maries he or she has I* hl1 (,r boyfriend oi three years. Daniel Martinez, Send information to .......... one of the kindest, most loving people she’s emailnrw\(w; , t on the ballot or what the issues might be. Every election cycle receives a lot of attention about who voted and why. This year, there seems to be a lol more concern about who is not voting and the impact that group might have on the results. Almost 92 million eligible Americans didn’t vote in the 2016 presidential election. That was better than the 2014 midterm elections when an estimated 143 million eligible Americans . failed to vote, marking the lowest voter par­ ticipation number in 72 years. Experts maintain that, for our democracy to function properly and for government to provide fair representation, it’s imperative that more eligible voters take part in the process. A Pew Research Center report stales that 74 percent of respondents ranked election participation as a very important determinant of good citizenship, above pay­ ing taxes and following the law. Yet millions of eligible voters arc missing from the deci­ sion-making process. Some suggest that absence is because of unnecessary barriers in voter registration and the voting process, but 1 think it’s more about the lack of interest and the behavior of so many of our elected officials. The tele­ vised political commercials alone would turn oft' anyone from voting. None of them are informative. They are filled with hate and misinformation, and, if you weren’t already a committed voter, you sure wouldn’t want lo become one. Despite all that, my overriding concern is that people may not even be prepared to vote. I wonder if they have studied the can­ didates. the issues and how and where to vole. When I was in high school, students were required lo take a civics class where we learned about our resjxjnsibility to vote and the importance of learning about the candidates and the issues on the ballot. Civics is no longer required in some schools. Are today’s voters prepared to vole? 'The answer may have been most succinctly framed by former British Prime Minister Winston S. Churchill: -rhe best argument wmsum :c n five-minute convcragflinst democracy • „ > verify sation with the average voter. I can verify the truth of his observation. 1 was talking with a potential voter the Other dav who told me she s no voting because she thinks the candidates "allsuck! . Others said they weren’t voting because they don’t think their vote matters, or they think the system is corrupt so they have no plans to vote. And there were others said they had no idea who was running, other than Donald Trump and Joe Biden. Jhey couldn’t tell me who their slate and federal representatives were or who was running for any of the local positions. One young man did admit that a tax request to pay for a new jail is on the ballot and he was interest- I ed because he had spent some time in jail a I couple of years ago and thought we could I use a new jail. But, when it comes down to being prepared to vote, we as a nation need to spend more time informing eligible voters about the candidates and the issues. “Democracy cannot succeed unless those who express their choice are prepared to choose wisely,” Franklin D. Roosevelt said. “The real safeguard of democracy, there- I I I I I I fore, is education.” But, to become educated, you have to I commit some time to study the issues and I know who the candidates are and their posi­ tions on the issues. As Americans, we must accept the basic responsibility that each one I of us should take voting seriously. That’s the way it’s been for more than 200 years. I When so many people sit on the sidelines, I carrying a banner of complacency over their I obligation to vote, it affects us all. ! “We do not have government by the j majority. Wc have government by the I majority who participate,” Thomas Jefferson I said. And that’s how democracies and coun- I tries go awry. People who don’t vote because they have I little or no idea about who they’re voting for I may think they’re better off sitting it out. I But the resources to become educated on the I candidates and issues are available: In fact, I our news staff is currently working on an I election special section similar to the one I we produced prior lo the primary election. I That section, which will be included in-1 the Oct. 8 Hastings Banner, will put the information that county residents need at their fingertips to help them be well-in­ formed voters. My company, J-Ad-Graphics Inc., is dis­ tributing this section, which will be avail­ able al locations across the county to help inform voters about the candidates and the issues on the Nov. 3 ballot. “Nobody will ever deprive the American people of the right to vole except the American people themselves, and the only way they could do this is by not voting,” Roosevelt said. It will be up to you to set aside some lime to look over the section and read about the candidates and the issues you’ll find on the ballot so you can be a responsible voter.. . ‘Someone struggled for your right to vote. ’ Susan B. Anthony said, “so use it!” Know Your Legislators: Fred Jacobs, CEO. J-Ad Graphics Inc. J Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican. 19th District State Senate Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate Michigan qov U.S. mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon. P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909 9 9 u U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent, 3rd District (All of Barrv Counts nd House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone^202) 225-3831 Sax(202122* Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702U.S. HartSenate Senate Office R»iWi„„ >«> u- . nr 20510. phone (202) 224-4822. cs Build,n0- Washington. D.C. 2202^phonT(248)n79^ D-C-20510720^ 110 Michigan Street NW. Grand Rapids. Mtch. phonMBIG)^ President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Caoitni tru~ . * and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. H information line for Cong^55 �Th© Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 1, 2020 M Page 5, Elementary students required to wear masks Thylor Owens All vi.. i $taff Writer grade, must "wear'hrou8h 12th starting Monday. ' ” ln ,hc classroont. students weroMw '.,hrou8h r'ntl grade class, as l0(lg ™ K? '° in dents from other clasps"”' WUh S'“' Gov. Gretchen widinterSeoHs5' S'g"Cd b> mask mandate to all sll^X '“ ’ °’e be diSlTro vou?1 C'Ctr lhm COV1D-I9 can dren who becom "8er chlldrcn’ and that chilthe virus to th • ' ,nPec,cd nt school can pass ty spread " th lr parcnls' leading to communihe toht i'h',WW order reads. “Given in rccem n onfoC"CC ?' 5 ““ amon8 ^'d™ ofl^ n^ hS‘ and '.he c,ear effectiveness the use of m a,mi.tlga,'on strategy, requiring Veneer n r SkS "' ‘hc classro°"’ even for * “ g r students is a reasonable and necesM?S?foTn,Con.1 in Rcgions a' Phasc 4 of 'he MI bate Start Plan. Schools Superintendent Kyle Corlett said the district is "open to 1^ T* any safct* P^aution recom। . e.. health experts and government leadership, but said educators have been getting conflicting information and recom­ mendations. ’I would like to hear from the governor's office where the information came from to make the decision to mandate masks for K-5 " Corlett said. “The executive order said that it’s crystal clear now that COVID is deadly to young students and students arc getting par­ ents sick, but wc have not heard that through the (Barry-Eaton District Health Department!. So, what has changed since the beginning of the school year that would prompt this new requirement? In fact, the (Centers for Disease Control] just published a study confirming young students arc at low risk from COVID.” The CDC study found that of the roughly 280,(XX) U.S. children who tested positive for COVID-19 between March and September, 63 percent were between the ages of 12 and 17 and 37 percent were between 5 and 11. Fifty-one of those children died. According lo Bridge Magazine, there were 199 cases of CO VID-19 among K-12 staff and students in 46 Michigan school buildings as of Monday. The number has grown from 121 cases in 28 buildings two weeks ago, and 33 cases the week before. “We are very disappointed in the gover­ nor’s latest Executive Order, as our elementa­ ry schools remain completely clean and with­ out a positive case,” Hastings Area Schools Superintendent Dan Remcnap said Tuesday. "It is disappointing that the governor is treat­ ing all districts as if they are the same, and experiencing the same levels of infection, Jail request missing key details: Location, cost To the editor: place. By moving another department, we This is in regard to the recent action by the have located a place, so start packing.” We complied with Pennock’s request with­ Barry County Board of Commissioners on the upcoming proposed jail vote. in the time limit. The house was not the most Fred Jacobs’ article in the Sept. 10 issue of desirable, but we made the best of it for 2 1/2 the Banner seems to be right on. If you hav­ years. Those three commissioners came up with a en’t read it, get a copy. He did his homework. My thoughts go back to the time solution in a very few days and made it hap­ Commissioner Ed McPIiarlin came into my pen. No money was spent on an organization office at the health department and said, "The to tell them what to do. county has been informed by Pennock Before 1 could vote for a new jail, I would Hospital that they need the room where the like to know the cost and where it is to be health department is for expansion. They also built. requested we be out within 30 days.” If needed, why not build on to what is The health department had been located in already there? Sewer, waler is already there a wing of the hospital for many years. - what a savings for a building project. Commissioner McPharlin also said, “Two other commissioners and myself have been Bob Sheffer, spending many hours working on finding a Hastings Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: •All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. Al! that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor's discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks" will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. . We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. »re "otwhen clcan} other overreach, and k ,t; , -This i' kids and staff we^ ; l,car’' ening. «cn!,e n°raialcy.J W 5,artinB to enjoy s . we will comply- n “Obv,o sre‘irc ex,r'n>ely di ’ RcmCI’aP .HWed .;Bu‘ 'decision. She ,n her unil«>ltr! c|f as well ... i*’,o «»>• traJiclinP ;ircas. while tighten?"8 J"'™’ dons in so0* getting better Or ' 8 £Cm ,n others.Arabize lha,( * W “We " ,^e children who m^ 8' pUlS a burden °n ' c|| all day lon_.. ’> ao( <oleratc a mask *e 1 ’ Maple Valley our school system as best we can. . Bcrtolini added there can be an upside to the new order Under the previous rules, schools that wanted to excuse masks for K-5 had to cohort the classrooms - meaning students could not mix between classes. Now that all students must wear masks, that rule no longer applies. "We will have more freedoms for how we group and move students at the elementary level beyond strict cohorts, which will be a welcome factor for us,” Bertolini said. Superintendent Katherine Bcrtolini said. “We continue to work to find ways, spaces and times for our students to have breaks that are still safe. We will assess our ability to balance safety and responsiveness lo families if this changes our students’ ability to focus in school.” “I am really glad we continue to maintain two options for learning in Maple Valley that allows us to work with our families,” Bertolini continued. "While we cannot be endlessly flexible, and stability is important, we are trying to blend the needs of our families and Ba>*ry County Chamber adopts civility statement Greg Chandler Staff Writer With the h“ “Reeled much of the country’ m Months, the Barry County Ch^r<’Commcrcc;uid Economic Development taking a step toward encouraging memben(Ucrea|e and civility in the workphcc. 1 The chanlbe,\“„,tDA ^ards recently approved a civlh y ‘ cment that will serve as a guide for the organizations for future meetings. The statement reach: The Barry County Chamber and m A is committed lo encouraging, creating, and sustaining an environment that honors the inherent dignity of every member of our community and our visitors. Respectful behavior should always be the norm in all forms of communications in all situations.” "Il will be implemented into all of our meetings and all of our dealings as we move forward.” chamber Executive Director Jennifer Heinzman said. Heinzman proposed the statement earlier this year, shortly after she took over as chamber director. She had been instrumental in getting a similar statement passed in her previous position as executive director of the Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce. "When I first started here, the civil unrest was just getting ramped up in our country', so I thought it was a good time (to introduce it],” she told the Middleville Village Council at a Sept. 22 meeting. The civility statemetf was created to allow for dialogue to occir in meetings in a respectful manner, to allow opinions to be heard, respected and Mier understood, and to uniqueness, experiences and perspectives.” “All members of the community have a responsibility to behave in a manner that does not harm others and shows respect for those with different opinions.” Chamber board member and Thomapple Arts Council Executive Director Megan L-avell said the introduction of the civility' statement to the chamber comes at a time when there needs to be greater discussion across the community on issues of diversity and inclusion. "This conversation cannot just be the focus, of nonprofits. It needs to be a discussion in every business, in every sector,” Lavell wrote' in an email to the Banner. The Barry Community Foundation Board of Directors recently adopted the civility1 statement as well, and the foundation's Youth’ Advisory Council also is expected to consider, adopting it as well. YAC adviser Jillian Foster calls the; statement "impactful” and says that, given thecontentious presidential debate Tuesday night,' a statement guiding respectful exchange of, ideas is needed. ’ "I think, if this is the kind of stuff we’re; seeing, the very least we can do is be in a room together or online and have a civilconversation without fear of ridicule,” Foster said. i The chamber and ED/\ boards are currently; being restructured into a single board, and; that process is expected to be completed by the middle of this month, Heinzman said. • "Once we gel the new board in place, everybody’s going to sign a pledge to say this! is agreed upon,” she said. , “If this is the kind of stuff we're seeing, the very least we can do is be in a room together or online and have a civil conversation without fear of ridicule." Jillian Foster Youth Advisory Council make community meetings more open and allow for more diverse opinions, Heinzman said. The statement is being circulated to local businesses and municipalities in a trifold document. It includes the following beliefs: “We welcome a diverse range of perspectives and opinions, upholding the importance of civil debate.” “We fully support the free exchange of ideas and beliefs, as well as the expression of provocative or less popular ideas.” "We believe that only through the process of open and honest dialogue can we generate knowledge and deepen our mutual understanding.” "Behavior that attacks, humiliates, belittles or conveys personal hatred toward others diminishes our thriving and safe community environment.” "We realize our words and actions matter.” "Everyone is asked to do their part in creating a healthy, positive community, a culture that truly values each person’s Hastings Oy Council pursues i redevelopment program ■ Sophie Bates Staff Writer The Hastings City Council voted to proceed with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Redevelopment Ready Communities program, which, once completed, would make Hastings eligible for MEDC grants. The free program assists communities in creating best practices for development relating to community plans and public outreach, zoning regulations, development review process, recruitment and education, community prosperity and redevelopment­ ready sites. At Monday’s city council meeting, Julie Turnbull, a MEDC representative guiding Hastings through the Redevelopment Ready Communities program, presented a baseline report that identifies which of the city’s development practices currently align with the RRC’s list of best practices. "Hastings has completed 43 percent of the RRC criteria and is in the process of completing or partially has completed another 25 percent. So really, a really great start for you moving into, kind of, completing the rest of the best practices,” Turnbull said, later noting that the RRC’s criteria has changed, meaning Hastings has completed more of the criteria than originally estimated. The baseline report allows Hastings to move into the final phase of the RRC program: certification. During this phasc, the city has access lo Redevelopment Ready Communities assistance — such as the RRC Online Library, guidance from an RRC planner and matching funds to mitigate the costs of larger projects — in order to fully align the city’s practices with the RRC’s. “Your community will start completing the missing best-practice criteria as defined in the baseline evaluation,” Turnbull said. "Once those five best practices arc complete, we move the community forward with certification and then we have our regional services team come forward to help the community prioritize sites, market, develop, and, kind of, do all of that background work.” Once the certification process is complete, the city will be eligible for additional grants through the MEDC. "By being part of the Redevelopment Ready Communities, there are grants and stuff that are made available to communities' that are in this program,” City Manager Jerry: Czarnecki said. "So. the hopes are it also forces us to get our development plans in, order so they’re ready when developers come.. It’s a best practice. “If council passes the resolution to continue, moving on with the program, the community' development department will sit down and; then put together a plan to address areas in yellow 1 partially aligned] or red [no alignment] on that evaluation.” • In other business, the council: -Approved a request from Scott TenCaie of Pavement Ends Inc. to hold the Barry-Roubaix; Pre-Purchase Merchandise Pick-up and Ride* Event Oct. 10 from 9 a.m. to 1 pan. at Fish Hatchery Park. The 2020 Barry-Roubaix, gravel road race was canceled due to COVID-. 19 concerns; the event allows item pick-up for those who purchased Barry-Roubaix merchandise. -Discussed creating an ordinance to enforce, no parking in bicycle lanes throughout the city. The board requested city staff begin drafting an ordinance, a communication plan and look into funding options. BibleStudy com NO MORE GUTTER CLEANING, OR YOUR MONEY BACK GUARANTEED! The Hastings Banner 1-866-495-170?. FREE Bible Study Guides & DVD'i Denoted to the Interests of Retry County since 1856 Hastings Banner, Inc. N M 43 Highway'•'"phone: (269) 94sSs54?Fax: (269) 945-5192 NeJ • Tlannel Prin/s & Solids leases: news&ddgmphics com ■ Advertising: ads^j-adgraphlcs^ $5.99 yd. & tip Frederic Jacobs publisher & CEO Hank Schuuring CFO •NEWSROOM’ Rebecca Pierce (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Cd t ) (Spods £d'to') Sop!'>e Bales Greg Chandler Luke Froncheck Taylor Owens . advertising DEPARTMENT. Cbssif'Wl ads accepted Monday tr.f0UQh fT?’11 8 30am lo5:00pm Scott Ommen Mike Gilmore Jy Gfeenfield Jenn,e Yonker Subscription Ratos: $52 per year in $60 per year in adjoining couno6s $65 per year elsewhere ouniy licensed Master Plumber Licensed Journeyman Plumber jy^ction. remodel, repair, drain cleaning. POSTMASTER Sand address r P.O. Box 188 HasUXP. Ml 49056 0188 Second Posuga al Hasbngs. Ml 49058 la. a * (New collections by Moda^ MICHAEL KINNEY PLUMBING Bradford whit e water heaters ^anie Day Installation Office (269) 948-2248 ___ (269) 838-5112 God Bless olmcrica ‘l? QUESTIONS: ASK US- 218 c Stalo 51. Hastnya»945-9673 Or'fN ManJi, Ii/ljy 0 ais-5 X) prt. Hulut Carters Pick-Up Station �Page 6 — TNirtwlay. October 1. 2020 — The Hasnngs Banner Ret*V Ruth Hay<Ieri. pennis Lyn Whitney Martha Jane Brou>n__ t Barbara Haywood helps her grandson Easlon Faist. 8, with his tablet at one of the • study rooms available through the Study Hub@HPL program. Hastings library offering free internet for online students Sophie Bates Staff Writer The Hastings Public Library’s new Study Hub(«HPL program — designed lo provide internet access for K-12 online students — begins Oct. I. The program allows students and their families to reserve a study table once a week for three hours, from 10 a.m. to I p.m., noon to 3 pan. or 2 to 5 p.m. The six study tables, which are in the Community and Michigan rooms, are spaced apart and cleaned after each use. No more than three family members may occupy a table, and students must provide their own equipment, including laptops and headphones. The study tables are available only for K-12 students. "Basically, we were looking for how to fill a need in the community, and we know there •ire a lot of families out here who have trouble accessing the internet.” Youth Services Librarian Paige Brandli said. "At the end of the day, it’s providing them an opportunity to have access to education and lo support our schools.” Tlie Federal Communications Commission estimates one-fourth of residents in rural communities, like Hastings, lack access to reliable internet service; and as more students seek online learning due to COVID-19, this longstanding issue has renewed urgency. Barbara Haywood marketing and adult program coordinator at the library, has seen evidence of an internet deficiency for years. Haywood said she’s often seen the library ’s parking lol — where 24'7 outdoor Wi-Fi is accessible — filled with cars long after the library closed as residents utilized the free Wi-Fi for school, work and other need. "We've, for years, seen the need with our full parking lots.” Haywood said. "Jiris is a Michigan issue that every library we’ve spoken to has talked about: a lack of internet access for families.” In addition lo Study Hubft HPL, those in need of internet access may rent Wi-Fi routers and hotspots from the library. In other matters, several events are launching in October, including a literary pumpkin contest, virtual LEGO club "Design a Costume" and grab-and-go craft activities. More information can be found on the HPL website, hastingspubliclibrary.org, or Facebook page. Call any time to place your Hastings Banner classified sit 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7985 Worship Together ...at the church of your choice Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of Who Jesus Is To The World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy.. P.O. Box 8. Hastings. 9121. com. Telephone 269-945­ Email hastfmefa' gmail. Website: www.hastings freeniethodist.com. Rutor Brian Teed. Student Ministries Director. Emma Miller, Worship Director. Sunday Martha Stoetzel. Morning Worship: 9am and 10:30 xm. beginning June 21 until further notice. Due lo the current health crisis, our nursery is temporarily closed and wv are temporarily suspending all Children’s ministries. Our church sanctuary is set up for social distancing. We do not ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. 269-945-4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip. Mass 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Mass 8 and 11 a.rn. Sunday. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6 9 p.m. Wednesday. Familv Night 6:30-8 p.m.. Kids *4 Truth (Children Kindcrgarten-5th Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information. require wearing masks, but do encourage it. especially while walking through the building before and alter services. Please keep your family together during the worship service. We are a multi generational church family and understand tint while this WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coals Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand Wheel-chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a m. Worship Time 10 30 a.m. Youth activities: call for intonnation could mean outbursts or jwnybreaks. wc are not inconvenienced by y our little one. In an effort to help you. wc arc providing weekly activity bags for each child. I hese bags are to be taken home or disposed of after each CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616-690-8609. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273. Hastings, .MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: wu w.lifcgatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday IJfe Group6:30 p.m. PLEAS ANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling. MI 49050 Pastor. Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-302! church phone. Sunday Service: 10 a.m WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway. Hastings, Ml 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd.. P.O. Box 765, (corner of Milo Rd. S. M-43h Delton, Ml 490-16, Pastor Roger Claypool. (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to J 1:30am. Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 to 7:30 pm. use. Betty Ruth (Wolfe, Waswick) Hayden, age 99. of Hastings passed away peacefully al Carvcth Village in Middleville on August 28, 2020. She was bom on November 2. 1920. daughter of Nomun and Ruth (Lahyer) Wollc.Belly was botn and raised in Detroit. She graduated frot> Detroit Cooley High School June 24, 1938. While in, school she was on the swim winning numerous awards in the backstroke. Betty always had a lose for singing and music, in school she was also a part of the Cooley High Choral group. She learned to play the piano early on and was an accomplished pianist xs was her mother Ruth. She would "tickle the ivories" any chance she got until later in her life. Belly also made sure that all of her children had the opportunity to learn an instrument or the piano. Music was always a part of her life, we can still hear her singing along to a new album or the radio in the house while working along. She enjoyed traveling, needlepoint and loved reading a good book as well. Betty loved her family dearly. She was a wonderful, caring lady with an infectious laugh and warm smile who was well liked by those in her congregation as well as those in the community. She had a generous spirit and helped those in her congregation xs long as she wxs able. Betty was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in 1936 and remained active and faithful throughout her entire life. Betty’s faith was a large part of everything that she did and her hope was to see family and friends again in an earthly paradise. Betty wxs preceded in death by her parents. Norman and Ruth; her first husband. Adolph Waswick; her second husband. Eugene Hayden; three brothers. Duane. James . Norman Jr. and grandson. Ryan Finch. Betty is survived by her children, Lyndsay (Ivan) Finch, Daniel (Diane) Waswick, and Michael (Linda) Hayden; grandchildren. Sara (Trevis) Pierce Emilee (Rick) Myers, Angela Finch and Dane Waswick; step grandchildren, Tim (Jill) Woodworth, Tammy Woodworth Eric (Heather) Bouchard and Justin (Stephanie) Bouchard; great grandchildren, Spencer and Alayna Pierce, Ian and Ava Myers, Ivan Finch (little Ivan). Alyssa and Stella Waswick; nephew. Tom Vatroba; sister-in-law Dorothy Wolfe, many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. A Streamed Memorial Service is planned for October 3. 2020 Rick Havens of the Hasttngs East Congregation of *hovah's W.tnCSseSwi|lbeofr^.ng. This information on worship service is provided by The Hasting Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Subscribe The Hastings A1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 1699W.M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 banner ro subscribe call us at: Dennis Lyn Whitney, age 62 of Middleville, passed away on September 23 2020. Dennis "Denny" wxs born on October 8, 1957 in Battle Creek, the son of Lynwood and Hazel (Reneau) Whitney. He wxs a 1976 graduate of Hastings High School. Dennis was a third generation electrician at Whitney Electric Service as well as several impactful years at Cavalier Electric Inc, Balkcma Electric, Geniac Electric Inc and R&B Electric. He was very passionate and dedicated to his work. He will always be cherished as an honest, hardworking, ethical man with a strong moral compass. He will be remembered for his superb pitching and golf skills, his many jokes and how he was always making people laugh, his math lessons at the dinner table and his love for cookies. As a child and young man, he enjoyed camping, riding dirt bikes, fishing in the summer and winter months, snowmobiling and spending time with family in Dublin. He loved his family; his life lessons will be cherished in many generations to come Dennis was preceded in death by his parents Lynwood "Skeeter" and Hazel "Jean" Whitney. He is survived by his four children, Timothy (Julie Huynh) Whitney. Alison (Bryan Haskins) Whitney, Carter (Makenzie) Whitney, Shannon Whitney; grandchildren Jalen. Jordan. Maxwell, Palmer. August, Camden, Brooklyn, sister Deb (Scott) Daniels; half siblings. Marcia Ives, Terry Weiler, and several nieces, nephews and cousins. /X celebration of life service will be held on Sunday, Oct. 1,2020 at I p.m. at Country Chapel UMC .9275 M-37. Dowling. Ml 49050 with interment to follow at Dowling Cemetery, 7325 S M-37 Hwy, Dowling. Michigan. A memorial luncheon to follow al Olde Towne Tavern, 114 S Jefferson St. Hastings, Ml 49058. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. Martha Jane (Kinsey) Brown, age 95, of the Villages. FL. passed away at home on September 29. 2020. Martha was bom on February 18, 1925 in Detroit, the son of Claude and Reva Kinsey. Martha was a graduate of Mackenzie High School in Detroit. She worked for the Detroit City Division of Pittsburgh Plate Glass Company, where she met her husband, George Brown. They were married on June 23, 1950. After living in Redford, Farmington Hills, and Avon Lake, OH. they spent their retirement years with friends and family in Hastings. They moved to The Villages, FL in July of 2017. Blessed with a servant’s heart, Martha spent many hours volunteering for church functions as well as volunteering at the Pennock Hospital Gift Shop. Martha enjoyed reading, sewing, gardening, traveling, playing golf and being with her family. She had a passion for animals and loved her dogs as much as her family. She was a member of the Hastings Country Club for many years. Martha was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, George, who died on February' 2.2020. She is survived by her sister, Virginia Braun; her daughter, Sue (Dave) Doozan of The Villages. FL, and her son, Richard (Wendy) Brown of Milford, and her six grandchildren. • Internment, for Martha and George, with full military honors, will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 16, 2020. Social distancing and masks will be required at the cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Barry County Humane Society @ h tips ://barrycounty humane.org/. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net. Jeannie Adell Cembrowicz A celebration ot Jeannie’s life will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome .net. Keith Meaney 11/6/46 - 10/2/10 * Jeannie Adell Cembrowicz. age 83, of '’(P()S ^a^Ce’ P‘lsse^ awa> on September 23. Jeannie was born on August 12, 1937, the daughter of Frank and Valia (Brown) Bradfield. She was a graduate of Boyne Falls Public School. Ou August 24. 1963, she married Stanley Cembrowicz. Sr. and they enjoyed 56 years together until his death. She was a teacher, small business owner and crafter. Jeannie loved to knit and sew. take care of others, play card gunles and watch birds. She was preceded in death by her husband, Stanley Cembrowicz, Sr.; her parents, Frank and Valia Bradfield; siblings, Arlie, Hah, Albert. Robert. Chat les and Frank, Jr. Jeannie is survived by her children, Patricia (Wally) Calvert, Elizabeth (Alecia) Cembrowicz. Kathryn 1 uncon, Stanley Cembrowicz. Jr., and 'Thomas Cembrowicz; grandchildren. Roxanne, James, and Lillian and great-grandson, Casticl, and her sister. Mary Jane Bradfield. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to a charily of one's choice. left us beautiful memories. Your lore is still ^r guide, Although we cannot see you, Vuu are always by Jow our side. .Missing you, Gloria Matt - pyptr Andrew — Mel — Amelia - Emcrson Jerrod - Mel ~ Jackson ~ Hannah �9 The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 1. 2020 — Pg9e 7 x" . ! fl 100,10a6k at the stories and columns on local history 10 Hastings Banner turning L back THE L PAGES **3 for v0,lWecr W(2? ,norn,n8 d d m which hundredspayroll dcdu^1,OU',l,c year th^Ltendcm of Scht>o|, i hd!’ e a 1 1 volunteer ^"’’^.Jnderfui , that they 1 5 I e°''|nh!ve'1failh '" •*hc job y°u are doing," lutnth added. Sixty years later, local campaign format continues It takes a lot of planning before a large-scale fundraising campaign can be launched, and this photograph was taken last week as leaders from the industrial division made preparations for their part in the 1960 Hastings Community Chest drive for more than $40,000. Photographed by Leo Barth were (from left) Don Siegel, secretary-treasurer at Hastings Manufacturing Company, who is a member of the Michigan United Fund budget committee; Richard Fluke, of the E.W. Bliss Company; Burt Johnson, Hastings Square; Richard T. Groos, International Seal and Lock Company; Don Keeler, Consumers Power; Lynn Perry, personnel manager at E.W. Bliss; Mrs. Bun [Grace] McPharlin of the Hastings Banner, Lars Wigert, purchasing agent at Orchard Industries; and Clifford Dolan Jr.. Hastings Manufacturing Company. Gross and Dolan are chair­ men of the industrial campaign. The United Way campaign has been one hour. Nursery facilities are being provided funding community programs for decades, for children. tapping various volunteers to work toward the Hastings will campaign lo raise a grand year's target amount. The 2020 goal of total of $40310.90 for local youth programs, $650,000 is far higher than it was in I960, but county organizations, such as the Red Cross the county's population has nearly doubled in blood program and other programs, and for United Fund agencies such as the USO. which that time, and the number of United \Va> provides recreation facilities for members of partners has grown, as well. Names - of both the campaign and the the Armed Forces. Wherever possible, drive workers are volunteers - have changed over the years. However, the campaign’s format today is urging employers to make it possible for similar to what it was 60 years ago, with a employees to contribute their share for this kickoff gathering to motivate volunteers United Fund drive through payroll deductions. The Hastings local campaign budget totals representing various industries who then go out and help solicit donations in their $23300. including $5/XX) for the Boy Scouts, $2,700 for the Camp Fire Girls, $6,175 for (he respective industries and communities. Youth Council, $400 for contingencies, and The Sept. 29, 1960, Banner announced $9,025 for the YMCA. The city's share of the Barry County that many volunteers already were in place and others w ere welcome to join the upcoming United Fund budget includes $6,436.84 for the Red Cross and the free blood program. campaign: Some 150 volunteer workers will launch $1366 for the Salvation Army, $1.450 for the the I960 Hastings Community Chest impaired children’s fund, $406 for the 4-H, campaign with a kickoff organizational $1,740 for the Michigan Children’s Aid, meeting set for 9:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Calhoun branch. S4.897 for the United Fund Leason Sharpe Memorial Hall. Richard agencies, for a total of $16,611, including Guenther. Hastings’ assistant superintendent $116 in drive expenses. Hastings received 58 percent of the county of schools, drive chairman, has announced. Superintendent of Schools L.H. Lamb and budget of $28,641, Middleville 18 percent. YMCA-Youth Council director Bob King will Nashville 10 percent. Southwest Barry. 10 be the main speakers al this meeting, and all percent. Woodland 3 percent and Freeport 1 workers and everyone interested is invited to percent. attend. “Fund materials and final instructions will be distributed and discussed at this session. Guenther said in urging every one interested to attend. The session is expected to be over in The Oct. 6, 1960, Banner announced the campaign was underway: Launch United effort to finance our vital youth, health agencies oV 4/>CH|GN^ Deputy Clerk/ Utility Billing Clerk “Wete success for lheRob2rtW"«;sX'c'y Or,lli: YMCA B"d director of th' Y®d'b also spoke at the kickoff c0" ,hc ‘-eason Sharpe Memorial HaH« P°’n ,nf oul that more than 1300 different boys and girls take pan in the various youth P^l,neSJInanced lhrough the drive all throug • Director King pointed out that the Youth Council not only has conducted programs for boys and gif*5' , a,so has assisted in organizing some adult programs, which, in tum, have contributed cash to the program. As an example, he ponded oul that the Square Dance Club last year contributed $200 left over from its dues for the YMCA camp, and steps to the lake were constructed with the money. . Drive Chairman Richard Guenther directed the organizational meeting, outlining the plans for the campaign. Guenther also pointed out how vital the agencies are to Barry County residents, using the Red Cross blood program as an example. Guenther said the blood used by Barry County residents during the past fiscal year would have cost them a minimum of $24,675 if they had paid only $25 for a pint of blood. Continuation of the free blood program, which has saved many lives in Barry County, depends on the success of the United Campaign. All solicitors have been supplied with information on the amount budgeted for each participating agency, and with other information of interest to donors. Among the volunteer workers in the various agencies arc: Hastings Manufacturing Company Kirk Foreman. Clarence Bump Jr.. Marcia Beard, Joan Kingsbury. Claire Loftus. Wesley Dingman, Lynn Mix. Donald Goucher. Robert Wilcox, Edwin Woodman, Donald MacKenzie Jr., Francis Campbell, Malcolm Robinson, Elizabeth Wyant, Dena Bristol. Evelyn Orsborn. Thomas Sutherland. Raymond Reynolds. Mildred Parrott. Clarence Arnie, Elmer Walles, Duward Cain, James Morgan, Darrell Aldrich. Neva Warner. Helen Keeler, Yvonne Appleman and Mary Pennock Consumers Power Company Gerald Cutchall, William Hubbell Jr., Roland Furrow. Kenneth Smith, Miles Waters, Arlo Nicholson, Earl Mayo. Fred O’Connor and Donald Keeler. E.W. Bliss Company Arthur Bennett, Carl Hobcrt, Lawrence Baum, Glen Ramsey. Roy Fuller, Bill Christie, Lester Elston, Billie Jackson, Leo Ackley, Michael Doyle, Lynn Perry, Joe Burkholder. Richard Fluke, Evelyn Batliati and Janet Reaser. Orchard Industries Charlotte Michaels, Howard Hamblin, Loren Mole, Jerry Musselman, Alfred Taylor. Wilma Pavlich. Doris Taliaferro and Lars C. Wigert. A perhaps unpublished list dated Oct. 5, 1960. included a breakdown of assignments for the Hastings retail division, which was chaired by Russ Hankins, a jeweler Gasoline stations - Harvey Haan (gas station owner). Automobile dealers - Jock Clarcy (schools). Grocery' stores - Art Steward (schools). Out-area retail - Floyd Colvin and Lawrence “Honk Keeler, both employed by Felpausch Food Center, and Bob Miller, Herb Moyer. Bob Carlson, Ken Robbc and Jack Hoke, all of whom worked for the Hastings school district. Downtown retail - Winston “Windy" Merrick (Consumers Power), Bob Sherwood (banker). Claude Gardner (pharmacist). Harm Wilcox (florist), Irene Parker (reslauranteur) and Stu Cleveland (clothier). Barry County’s Probate Judge Phil Mitchell, (seated, second from left) is the newly elected chairman of the Barry County Community Chest Board which coordinates the annual United Fund campaign. He was photographed at the board s recent annual meeting with other members. The members include (sealed, from left) George Schaibly of Woodland; Judge Mitchell; Elmer Brown of Middleville; Charles Finkbeiner of Middleville, who served as chairman last year; Milford Mason, county fund drive chairman and principal of (he Middleville high school; (standing) Roy Walters of Delton; Glenn Brovant of Freeport; Richard Blough of Freeport; Marc Squier of Middleville; Nelson Brumm of Nashville; Harold Kermeen of Middleville; and Robert Scott of Hastings. Board qiembers include representatives from the major communities in the county. Hastings Community Fund." the Dec. 29, 1960. Banner reported: Probate Judge Phil Mitchell was elected president of the Hastings Community Fund at the recent organization meeting. Judge Mitchell succeeds Howard Frost, who had served as president since 1945. George Hamaly was elected vice chairman; Richard T. Groos. secretary; Clifford Dolan, treasurer, and Richard Guenther, publicity chairman. Hamaly and Guenther were named representatives to the Barry County United Fund. Re-named directors for three years were Barbara von Reis. Howard Frost. Bob Wilcox and Marshall Cook. Dr. George Lockwood resigned after many years of sen ice. and the directors voted him honorary status in the organization with an invitation to attend all of the meetings. Lewis Lang, Hastings High School instructor and coach, was named the 1961 drive chairman, with Al Fuller, manager of the Water ’s Edge Financial LLC Jeffrey A. Keessen, AIF® (269) 948-9969 525 W. Apple St. Hastings, MI 49058 wwvv.watcr.sedgcfinancial.coni Taking care of what's important to you so that you can focus on what matters most to you Securities offered through LPI. Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC Township of Yankoo Springs 281 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION PUBUC HEARING NOTICE NOTICE OF INTENT (POSSIBLE) TO USE A VIRTUAL PLATFORM FOR PUBUC HEARING TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS. BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN. AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will be held on October t5, 2020 commencing at 7:00 p.m. at the Yankee Springs Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Rd.. Middleville Ml, within the Town­ ship, as required under the provisions of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act and the Zoning Ordinance for the Township. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Executive Orders 2020-131 and 2020-154 (unless otherwise lifted), the Township Planning Commission will hold its meeting (including public hearing) electronically, in order to limit in person government activities, to protect critical infrastructure workers to the extent possible. If the meeting is held electronically, information to electronically attend the meeting will be posted on the Township’s website at httpK//www.Yi>nkei?spring$two org. In addition to participation during an electronically held public hearing, members of the public may also provide comments for the Planning Commission’s consideration by emailing or mailing those comments to the Planning Commission for receipt prior to the meeting, in care of the Township Zoning Administrator, Eric Thompson (ethompsonfapcimi.com) or by leaving a phone message prior to the meet'ng with the Township Zoning Administrator, Eric Thompson at 616-877-2000. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at said public hearing include, in brief, the following: PC 20-09-08 A. serve in a combined administrative role as Deputy Clerk and Ti t n-iiino Clerk This is a flexible part-time or full-time U"" y I 0 h»um per week. Full-time is eligible for nncifton S(J Of 4u f P ‘ Interested applicants must submit a benefits, Ho« o/ . resume, cm anpluymml app ° emdopeATTN: Clerk/UB Clerk Position. Open until filled. A complete job dt ^P and application are available Middlwi|fc, at the Village office Michigan, 49333 and at www.yHL^tW--------- PARCEL ID # 08-16-080-061*00. 4066 England Dr., Shelbpille, MI 49344. A request by property owner Mike McCullough for Special Exception Use Pctjn»C/Sitc Plan Rex iew pursuant lo section 12.7 Outbuilding - 4 '‘SpeiialException I i. ^- The niblKt site is a JSI-scre parcel occupied by w» cssoq buildings. The propeny is currcntly zoned Residential Single-Fsntily Dtslnct (RSI) »d the appli­ cant is requesting to rcnn.se one of the csi.ting wxswry knldtngs and replace tt with a new building. 2. PC 20-09-09 PARCEL ID « OS-tfiJMiml’-OO. I<w<w Shady Lsne Rd.. .Middlrsdie, MI 4W3.L A. The Village of Middleville is seeking a qualified applicant to J.C. Penney store, as the assistant drive chairman. Fuller is a member of the board through 1962. Guenther, chairman of the 1960 drive, reported that 90.1 percent of the goal of $40310.90 had been reached with contributions and pledges climbina to a record high of $36284.10. The 1960 report follows: Industrial division, $23,649; professional. $1335: retail. $4,989; Barry County Medical Facility, $170: Barry County Road Commission. $30: stale highway personnel, $30; municipal employees, $6030; Pennock Hospital, $178; Hastings public schools, $ 1325; First Ward, $560; Second Ward, $462; Third Ward. $251; Fourth Ward, $1,837; Goodwill (school). $4130; Middle Lake. $42; Leach Lake. $18.41; Shultz, $20; Striker, $1530; Quimby, $2630; Algonquin, $86; Chidester, $126; service organizations, SI70; and student gifts, dances, etc., $423.65. A week into the drive, Hastings was at 373 percent of its goal, Guenther reported, urging residents to give enough for all," in the Oct. 13, I960, Banner. A request by prcperty ouster I hotnas Hopkins for S^ial Esceptn.. Vse PennitSite Plan Rcsik pursuant lo lection IZ7Ouibull^-•* •■SperMPx,rpMr, l ,n ’ •Ik k- .. e-..: n lOQ.acre nanxt occupied by a dwelling and detached garage I he property^ is currently zoned RoidcntiJ Single-fanuly Dutrjct (RSF) and the applSXqueMing to remove the dwelhng and c^troc: an acc^son structure across the street from his principle residcixe- The results of the campaign were included in an article at the en of the year announcing a change in leadership. Judge Mitchell heads Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads X 1. be fore ti»c Planning Commission. Such other business as inaj proper!} come be tk w . o . Pbmnina commission and Township Board reserve the nght Jrio Yankee Spring^ Town. P • 9amendment^) at or following the public hearing, to make changes m the above mentioned ptopostu u » a • . the A" interested persons are invited to be present at the Anyone interested in rev e* 0 meeting is held, to participate via the electronic ineebng aforesaid time and place, or. if an electronic meeuny v >v. v . J r chiAvulimovide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and service, to Individuals Yankee Springs Townsh p w P f ncti£tf t0 thc iownshlp Clerk. Individuals with disabiliwith disabihtles at the hearing upon fou M v rownJhip Clerk -it the address or telephone number lies requiring auxiliary aids or services snou feed below. iowNsH|p pwNNlw. COMM,SSION YANKEES Bush. Acting Chairperson Yankee Springs Township Hall 248 N. Briggs Rd. M‘ddk*villv, Michigan 49333 (269) 795-9091 ____ �Page 8 — Thursday, October i, 2020 — The Hastings Bannt r Page COVID-19-related deaths total 4 for Barry Conn y Bany-Eaton District Health Department Health Officer Colette Scrimgcr said the Barry County woman who died on Sept 23 hail tested positive for COVID 19 Aug. 24. Scrimgcr said she did not have the details on the Sept. 18 death, but she noted that the cause is not determined by the health depart­ ment: a treating physician or medical examm er makes that finding. “Typically, it’s not just one cause.” she said, giving a hypothetical example of an elderly person with lung cancer who contracts pneumonia after being diagnosed with COVID-19. “That death would be listed ns respiratory failure as a consequence of pneu­ monia its a consequence of COVID-19.” Vital .statistics would show cause of death as lung cancer, pneumonia and COVID-19, Scrimgcr said. State of emerggncKextended to0ct_2Z J-Ad News Service Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on >“£*“> extended a state of emergency in Michig ‘h Thc'd^thZJf t«o B“r’>_CoUW.y8n^dC^ - a 93-year-old man on Sept. 18 andI an 83-vear-oId woman on Sept . 23 linked a« COVID-19-asscciaiedI deaths. in . health department neo s release laM Until Sept.18, IK' deaths of Barn Counts residents related to the novel coronavirus had been reported sines' May 21. Public notification of the two deaths came as a mention in a larger -situational update email sent to Ute Banner last week. Jfcaka QfSkdAa family only but his burial at the Saranac cemetery will be Oct. 24. He grew' up in the Berlin Center neighborhood along with his sister’s Ruth Mason and Dorothy Bennett. A spectacular display of Howers is at The Hair Port where owner Bill Rogers has Howers so tall they nearly cover his windows. Monday night’s hockey game on national TV was an exciting one with special interest to local Garlock family members when (he Tampa Bay Lightning team playing in the sixth game of the final series defeated Dallas 2-0 for its fourth w in and the honors of gaining the prized Stanley Cup. Assistant coach Derek LaLonde was formerly coach at Ferris State University in Bog Rapids, which is also the hometown of the videographer Brian Garlock. About four years ago, the winner of the Stanley Cup was the Washington team for which Lake Odessa’s Michael Booi (a Tromp grandson) was one of the trainers. Remember the story of Booi bringing the cup to Lake Odessa and having it filled with ice cream from Dairy Queen? Brian Garlock was seen on TV when the staff rushed onto the floor; again when the winners shook hands with the Dallas team, and again when the team and staff were getting arranged for a group photo. Elaine Garlock North most across the street from the Congregational Church and next north of the village park a house has been demolished and removed, and grass growing in its place. For several years, it was the home of retired pastor Albert Pitman. Later it was divided into three apartments. A fire had damaged the home some months ago. The property also had an original two-story bam used for horses and buggies or carts with hay and straw storage included. Most such bams were later adapted for use by early automobiles. A few years ago, an inventory of such bams showed the town still had al least three dozen bams in use. Valeric Mossman was guest speaker Sunday at Central United Methodist Church. She happens to be a sister of the pastor Rev. Vaughn Thurston-Fox. She is a deaconess and has served as a missionary in Haiti. Mossman is currently in the Grand Rapids area with her husband and family. She brought a fine message on the occasion of United Methodist Women’s Sunday, which had UMW members in roles usually held by other church members. After a warm September, we had a sudden shift in weather with cooler temps and rain starting the weekend. Lake Odessa alumnus Roger Cochmn of Saranac died last week. His service was for HASTINGS AREA SCHOOL SYSTEM Accepting applications for High School Secretary Scrimgcr nlui| . „VI-i>r uptick in COVID 19 . ,on h> schools, weddings. ti,1H,r.)h ..bination of people being more ilcIjV(. •• But those number, aPI«‘,r b*’ "" " downswing here. ‘We had a ju„, . )asl few weeks in Barry County;-sh‘ ,h , . it's settling." M'clugan reJMn(™|6 new COVID-19 deaths on Tuesday, t|,,. ,_.„( since late June as the seven-day avZ±.^ cases also hit its highest mark since earls- MasFire news ,s ;1 reminder the pandemic is not over, despite a loosening of restrictions on activity in (he Ma|(.. . Gretchcn Whitmer late last week. ’ Including ft)ur . w attributed to COyfD-iU. the Mare^ 20 totai deaths on l uesday, ln addition to 898 new confirmed cases of the coronavirus, pushing the seven-d.iy average to Sis the highest since 821 on May 4. While most businesses have been allowed *" rc?|K;" si"w broad shutdown orders in March, \\ hitnier has issued executive orders mandating mask use. workplace safety proiocols and rules fOr facilities such as nursing homes. The governor’s decision to extend the stale ol emergency, which was expected, gives her authority to continue amending and issuing pandemic order;. ” I his emergency will end, and it is a matter ol months,” Whitmer said in a statement. “But wc arc not out ol the woods yet. Right now. the federal government and all 50 .states have been under some form of state of emer­ gency. We must continue doing our part to fight this virus on behalf of our families, frontline workers, and our small businesses.” The Republican-led Legislature sued Whitmer in early May, arguing she did not have the authority to continue the state of emergency after lawmakers declined to extend it legislatively beyond April 30. Courts have so far sided w ith Whitmer, but the Michigan Supreme Court is now review­ ing the dispute. Separately, a petition drive backed by GOP leaders seeks to repeal the 1945 law Whitmer has relied on to extend the state ot emergency unilaterally, without the Republican-led Legislature’s input. Even though this week’s death count in Michigan is the highest since June 27. it’s still a fraction of the peak. In April, the state aver­ aged over 100 deaths a day; there have been 271 in all of September. But case counts hive risen recently, partic­ ularly among college students and in parts of the Upper Peninsula.where COVID-19 hos­ pitalizations hit 34 ^Tuesday. 10 more than Monday and not cowaiug Michigan residents Cail assy some; to pSaee your Hastings Banner classified a23 269-945-S554 orU-800-870-7085 Wn <rej,lrncnI in Wisconsin hospitals. Other counties that have had an uptick in eases include Calhoun County where the rate per 100,(XX) residents has hit 19 new daily cases over the past week, up from 7 daily cases per KX).(XX) the prior week. Washtenaw °nniy. too, saw its rale jump from 6 daily c“‘-cs per 100/XX) lo 12. Results from nearly 24.000 tests showed •-6 percent were positive, a slight increase from recent days. A COVID-19 spike in the region has caused increased pressure on Barry-Eaton District Health Department staff. Scrimger said last week. During the Sept. 24 online health board meeting, Scrimgcr provided an update on her department’s efforts to mitigate the spread of the novel coronavirus w hile other viral threats, __ including seasonal to-borne Eastern I presenting further ch In recent weeks, demands have . mosquilitis are s to her staff­ contact tracing shc said j$ nlUch more inX,o6|s.-*nd.hcSttn complex, parln-UlMly Scrimger stud. is feeling overwhelm. Ma(c for (his They had been rely’ 8onip)ex cases "are support but now -Only the worst kicked back to us. shew of the cases arc conum enl staff ,s In addition, the heal want (o dealing with yc)| and take out cooperate. Sever scrimgcr said, their frustrations on stat . Continued next page J\[ewborn babies Grayson Gabriel Swift, born al Spectrum Health Pennock on August 21,2020 to Amy Swift and Nathan Swift of Battle Creek. Rowan Robert Bradley Artemus Scott, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on /Xugust 25, 2020 to Katlynn Arlene Catherine Scott and Eric Bradley Scott of Delton. Health Pennock on September 9. Mercedez Lynn Thurman and Dylan Tyler Thurman of Hastings. Josephine Grace Paulik. born at SP^,rU™ Health Pennock on September 10, to Whitney Craven and Christopher Paulik. Novaice Marie Pearce, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on August 25. 2020 to Laci Coumaya and Darin Pearce of Charlotte. Oaklyn Rain Eicher, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on September 10. 20-0 to Alexandra Kaitlin Mesccar and Doug Allen Eicher of Hastings. Max Lee Pritchard, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on August 25.2020 to Tatum Noble and Scott Pritchard of Hastings. Natalie Marie Newsome, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock to Mackinsie Newsome of Hastings. Aidcn Alton Scarborough, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock lo Carol Scarborough and Riley Scarborough of Lake Odessa. Indi Grace Crouch, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on September 11, 2020 to Sarah and Corey Crouch of Hastings. Cooper Scott Lydy, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on August 27, 2020 to Alexandra Lydy and Cody Lydy of Middleville. Xavier Daniel McCIurkin, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on September IL 2020 to Michelle Marie Leasure and Brandon Daniel McCIurkin of Hastings. Einnix Wilder Adams, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on August 29.2020 to Taiton Shay Paula Adams of Orangeville. Rowan Michael Edwards, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on September 1. 2020 to Morgan Kay Reed and Michael Damian Edwards of Delton. Ella Mai Baird, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on September 4, 2020 to Maigan Baird and Brian Baird of Hastings. Lliznbeth Lynn Thurman, bom at Spectrum Russell John Michael Phillips, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on September 12, 2020 to Victoria Krefl of Hastings. Abigail Jane Keiper, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on September 16, 2020 to Heather Keiper and Christopher Keiper of Hastings. Avery Mac Clow, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on September 15. 2020 to Amy Michelle Hobert and Ashton Michael Clow of Dow ling. Minimum qualifications • Be familiar udth the functions and operations of computers • Experience In Microsoft Office and Google Suite including Gmail, Spreadsheets, Google Forms, etc. • Have good secretarial skills (i.e. typing, filing, telephone, etc.) • Have an understanding of PowerSchool • Have an understanding of the State of Michigan Pupil Accounting guidelines • Position is School Year +10 days • Hours: 7:30am - 4.00pm ’American Metal Roofs What’s the of a METAL Get a FREE Satellite Measurement and t Roof Pricing Report! For Your Home! S APPLY AT Hastings High School 520 W. South Street, Hastings, Ml 49058 TGd@ OR OUR WEBSITE: basskl2.org webs fthey weave Dear Dr. Universe: Why do garden spiders hang upside down in the middle of their webs Abree, JO, New Jersey IWrowing Auction < K\ -AUCTIONEERS- KENDALL TOBIAS............................Hastings 945-5016 XN PAUL LETT1NGA....................................... .AUCTIONEER XJ KENNETH.....................................................AUCTIONEER LIQQIDATION AUCTION For Details Visit: CITY OF HASTINGS Saturday, OCTOBER 3, at 10:00AM LOCATION: From Hastings, take M-179 west 12 miles to Payne Lake Rd., turn right (north) go approx. 2 miles to 369 N. Payne Rd., Utoyiand, Ml (just north of Yankee Springs Golf Course) FARM G TRACTORr Ford 8N 1951 Tractor; 3 pt. Brush Hog; 3 pt. King Kutter Yard Rake; Agnfab Potohiler for 4 Wheeler; 16 ft. Implement Trailer; Log Splitter; Garage Door Opener; 8x10 Dog Pen; Lg. Live Trap; Chains D Come-along; Chain Binders; Grill Smoker; Log Maul; Scrap Metal; Chicken Feeders; Windows; & MairiJ YLHICLEi 1997 FORD EXPEDITION. MUSI_SEE! W09PS0RKMR.. SHOE TOOLS. Lincoln 225 Arc Welder; Articulating Vise; Wood Lathe w/Tools; Rikon Band Saw; Delta 10* Table Saw; Bench Grinders; Grizzly Table Mount Jointer; DcWclt Chop Saw; Delta Drill Press. Lg. Dust Catcher, Jet Shaper; Kobalt Tool Box; Craftsman Machinist Box; Fortdem Rotary Tool; Tool boxes, antique Lit Top Drafting Tabic w/ accessories; Lg. Wood Work Benches: DuctMttalwoik; P;pe Wrenches; Wood Planes; MANY Wood Carving Items; Commercial Meta! Shelving; Pbwcr Tools. Variety of Nice Dry Lumber; Old Hardware; Carving Books, Garden Fbnd; New Snares; Pig Roaster on Wheels; New Doors, Fishing items; Goose & Duck Decoys: & More! MISC; Gun Cabinet; Cast Iron Door Stop; Grandfather's Clock: Dresser; 2 Trumpets; Bentwood Rocker, Toddier Bed, Patio Table & Chans, Antique High Back Wilting Chair; Carved Eagle Totem; Other Hand Carved Items. Kids Rockets; Carnp Chairs: Kirby Vacuum, Canning Jars: Yogurt Maker; Wildlife Plates: Rogers Silverware In Case; Silver 5 Plate Items; Flint Carving Set In Case; Singer Serger; & I! q Manya. ^ILCaidLfhi.WiopJieiiJill-AAtix.Micelle_io Attoid11 Bowe hold of. ___________________ SUa and Jan* CojrrfU_____________________ For more Information go to www.iuctioorip.coni #233711 Never Charging Buyers Premium! Kendall Tobias, Auctioneer 1-269-945-5016 No c?cd,t cvd.1 Na out of strta dwcM Kdvgan dmks of gjvv ' AmericanMetalRoofs.cnm/PRICE |«ms vi! as a NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the Hastings City Council will hold a public hearing on Monday. October 12.2020 at 7:00 I’M location to be determined Please see City website (hastingsmi.org) for location Tlie purpose of the Public Hearing is ror City Council to hear comments and make a determination on ‘he establishment of a final assessment roll for the sidewalk improvement special assessment districts along West State SUM37/M43. A tentative fi* .^nt roll may be reviewed in the City fieri ''refice during normal business hours. s 1 The City will provide necessary r„, h|,. aid and services to disabled persons wishm/""3.. t.|id these hearings upon seven days notice t„ u ' !!,'rk of the City of Hastings. 201 East Stale Street ? L Michigan 49058. Telephone 209/945-24^ ‘ 1 rd-.y services 800/649-3777. r 11)1 4MC-! hineM.S-’n"’’8" CiiyCh'8 Dear Abree, I hat’s a great observation. Garden spi­ ders and other orb-weaver spiders crawl all around their webs, but we often sec their heads pointing down toward the ground. My friend Todd Murray, an entomologist at Washington State University, told me about a group of scientists who had a ques­ tion a lot like the one you’ve asked. These scientists used mathematical models to learn about orb-weaver spiders and how they move around the web. ’They discovered spi­ ders that wait with their heads down for prey can reach prey faster than .spiders that wait with head up for their prey. While there are exceptions, this position gives spiders an advantage when getting food. Sometimes prey will hit the top of the web, but end up tumbling to the bottom of the web. A spider higher up on the web with ,|s ,1ead hieing down would be able to see prey below. Gravity also helps spiders as they run down the web. Murray reminded me how diilercnl kinds o spiders can make different webs. Orb wcasers tend to make webs in circle shapes, tese spiders have parts called spinnerets loc.itcd in their rear ends, or abdomens, that pnxluce the silk for the uebs. Sonic orb-weavers may create a trap line with their silk, which attaches them to the middle of the web. When an insect hits the web, the trap line vibrates and the spider can sense dinner has arrived. It might just be a ily. mosquito, moth or wasp. As tall gets underway, orb weavers eat lots of insects and gel bigger. You may iden- lify an orb weaver from its brick red to orange body with while splotches. We see quite a few' orb weavers in Western Washington al this time of year. You may notice more spiders and webs in your neigh­ borhood. too. We are still learning why some spiders build certain kinds of webs. Murray said a wasp in Costa Rica has even revealed how spiders web designs can get hacked. The wasp glues an egg on the spider’s abdomen. When the egg hatches, the little larva attach­ es to the abdomen and starts living off the spider. “That grub sits there and steals the nutri­ ents from the spider like a vampire does, or a lick, or other blood-sucking creature,” Murray said. “As that grub grows on the spider, the spider does a really amazing thing.’’ On the last night of its life, the spider starts to build a totally new kind of web that looks a bit like a hammock. Once the ham­ mock is made, the spider puls the larvae into the hammock. “It really docs show you how those web-building abilities arc hard-wired in the spiders, but that they can be manipulated ” he said. ’ If you keep asking great questions like scre-nlisK do. maybe you'll hc|p us , even more about the world of arachnids. In the meantime keep an eye out for the spi­ ders beautiful webs. Dr. Universe ‘>'‘y"‘lhuveU.llie.uini,?A,kDr Ullive.se Send an email to • unnerseUmwnM rZlen ng,(’n S,a,e re Lrin <U Dr.Univ..r^@ M �Tlw Hastings Banner — Thursday. October 1. 2020 — Page 9 licenses CARRIAGE Kdscy, Edwards celebrate 60th wedding anniversary Thomas and Nola Edwards celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on July 30, 2020. They were married in the First United Methodist Church in I960 and have four children, Julie. Sandra. Kim and Scott. They also have several grandchildren and great grandchildren. Rosamary Borton to celebrate 90th birthday RosamaryBorton. of Hastings, will be cclcbrattng her 9l)ih birthday. She was bom October 8,1930. A card shower would be appreciated in her honor. Send cards to Rosemary at Cornerstone Living Center. 2900 Kellens Drive. Hastings, MI 49058. . Me’**n8eT’ Lake n. LakeO»less?dCSSa and Brandon Hasiin. ‘ . Brandon §aginaw an<l Karly Arlene CraniJ ’^ vVcj|Cr Sydney M t.hllrehil|. Mi<|,Sl<: an<< Samanthai->exandna Slabinski v. u •„ Jasmine i Smterciak m,’ , and Shawn NGcncOf e^’N^vI1c John A"'h‘|luber. hreepon RaP,ds "nd Rachel Lyn° smith, bowlint Sarah Oil*1 *wjing and Logan Ixruy Kcagic- . jj Jill Lon”"' »f .ngs ‘'ngs and Yani.y James Hob^ ^, GonzaJM f| BC"’T', -' hCa<,cla" Ro<ine.H™ gS and Karina Lizet*’; . h . Hastings RachelN^X; ,,,,ESandr>lar Phillip Johnson. £ Jonathan BoWh ?,dc' IL a"J Julia EliseHo^;”’''^^. IL. Laura Ash <» »>»"• and Kcvin Michael Todd. Hichoty vornen, Willie Joe Murray. Hastings and Taylor Marie Staskus. Hastings Donald Jay Falconer JIL Hastings and Kaylie Autumn Thomas. Hastings Donald L. Ixak. Freeport and Jean Marie C(x)k. Freeport Michael James Wouda, Wayland and Tracey Lynn Hall, Wayland Tim Brandon Knauss, Bellevue and Eminilec Elizabeth Nuding, Bellevue Melia Mae Timm, Hastings and Terrick Andrew Smith, Hastings Ryn Micheal Hemphill, Middleville and Erica Elizabeth VanTuinen, Wayland Skyler Dale Sipple, Caledonia and Kayla Ann Lombardo, Middleville Eleutcrio Limas Jr., Nashville and Maria Isabel Galvez, Muskegon Sara Jane Tenhoor, Delton and Brandon Richard Reynolds. Delton Mandy Jean Schweizer, Hastings and Joshua Ryan Mihailoff, Hastings notice Townships participating in the October 17. 2020 date Assyria Townsh.p NOTICE OF REGISTRATION FOR THE ELECTION TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, N?’EMBER 3, 2020 BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN 70 THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS: The Barry County Townsh’ps of Assyria, Baltimore. Barry, Carlton, Castleton, HastmgsCharter, Hope, Irving. Johnstown, Maple Grove, Orangevli’e, Prairieville, *The staft is feeling beat up ... It’s a stressful time.” The health department will be getting addi­ tional funds from the state to cover the cost of contract tracing and case investigation — $79,800 of which will cover that health department expense back to March, she said. For Fiscal year 2021. an additional $34,200 has to be spent by Dec. 30. which will offer the department some flexibility on staffing, Scrimger noted. Another $120,000 from the state for 2021 is earmarked for testing, equipment, supplies or staff time that has to do with COV1D-19 testing. Tliose funds also must be spent by Dec. 30. “As you’re aware, wc haven’t been doing mass testing like some other health depart­ ments.” she said. “We don’t have the staff capacity to start doing testing events. Wc feel testing has been covered in our communities by our testing partners.” So Scrimger is proposing working with the health department’s hospital partners “to see how we might be able to support them with the testing they’re doing. ... We’ll see if they’re doing testing in the winter. Some are buying big tents lo do testing outside their facilities in the winter. Scrimger said she wanted to give the board a heads-up that a large amount of funding would have to be spent in a short time and her suggested strategy is to Figure out how they can support their hospital partners in the work they’re already doing. Another possibility she mentioned for health department involvement is pop-up test­ ing events with the National Guard around the holidays, before and alter Thanksgiving and Christmas. In another infusion of Financial support, the feder.il government is pushing additional flu vaccines to the states and, as a result, the health department will be receiving 500 doses of the adult flu vaccine any lime now, Scrimger said. “That is for us to distribute for free in our communities,” she said. Their goal is to distribute these vaccines to county residents who wouldn’t have gotten it otherwise: to those at risk or those who, because of COVID-19, won’t be able to get out to gel vaccinated for the flu this year. Starting Oct. 1. the health department will receive $127,000 from the state to push that flu vaccine out into the community, targeting adult foster care homes and food distribution sites. They must spend half the amount they receive for flu vaccine distribution by Dec. 30. with the remainder spent by June 30. “This work is coming in addition to eveiything else we're doing - especially with die deadline." she said. "The sooner we get the flu vaccine into the arms of people, the better off we are as a community." Scrimger requested bringing back June GiHespie: a former health department emptor ee, on a part-time basis to have her work as the project manager on this flu 'aceme proj- cct ment would likcl)■ba m Hea|lhcarc staffing firm, such as „ • lo jcai Services or Visiting h utsc . with the actual admimsirauon of the 0“ '“c cine. »uYmnacitv to do this • We don't have the staff capacity by June 30,” Scrimgcr said. October 15, 2020 at 1:00 pm at BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP HALL 3100 East Dowling Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Townships participating in the October 15,2020 date Baltimore Township October 20, 2020 at 10:00 am at BARRY TOWNSHIP HALL 155 E. Orchard Street Dolton, Michigan 49046 Townships participating in the October 20. 2020 date Barry Townsh p October 23, 2020 @ 9:00 am at CARLTON TOWNSHIP HALL 85 Welcome Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Townships participating in the October 23,2020 date. Cartton Township GENERALELECTION From previous page William Robert Bonzhcim. Shelbyville and Kalhic Lynn Estelle. Shelbyville Madeleine May Neuman. Hastings and Anthony Lee Romo, Hastings Nicole Lyn Quigley. Wayland and Blake Michael Hinds. Wayland Collin David Stein. Wayland and Thnsha Marie VanBcek. Wayland Megan Rosanne Pequct. Middleville and Dakota William Allen Nicholson. Middleville Shelby Raye England. Middleville and Ashley Dawn Bumstead, Watervliet Lorraine Kay Osborne, luike Odessa and Benjamin Darell MacCabe, Foxboro, Ontario Melinda Anne Kelley. Delton and Daniel Joseph Byrne, Otsego Aaron Patrick McGillicuddy NA. Middleville and Erica Marie Holloway. Middleville Maria Kristina Greenman, Middleville and Justen Dean Bredewcg, Middleville October 14, 2020 at 2:00 pm at CASTLETON TOWNSHIP HALL 915 Reed Street PO Box 679, Nashville. Michigan 49073 Townships partidpating In the October 14,2020 date: Castleton Townships Rutland Charter, Thomapple. Woodland. Yankee springs, and City of Hastings. October 19,2020 at 1:00 pm at HASTINGS CHARTER TOWNSHIP HALL 885 River Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Townships partdpatng in the October 19. 2020 date Hastings Charter Township COUNTY OF BARRY STATE OF MICHIGAN PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that any qua'ified elector of the above named jurisdictions who is not already registered, may register to vote at the office of the Township or Gty Clerk; the Office of the appropriate County Clerk; a Secretary of State branch office, cr other designated state agency Registration forms can be obtained at vAvw.ml.gov/voto and mailed to the Township or City Clerk. Voters who are already registered may update their registration al wvAv.expressS0S.com. October 15,2020 at 1:00 pm at HOPE TOWNSHIP HALL 5463 S. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, Michigan 49058 Townships particpating in the October 15, 2020 date: Hope Township The fast day to register in any manner other than in-person with the local derk fa Monday. October 19.2020. October 7, 2020 @ 10:00 am at IRVING TOWNSHIP HALL 3425 Wing Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Townships participating in the October 7, 2020 date: Irving Township After this date, anyone who qualifies as an elector may register to vote In person with proof cf residency (WCL 168.492) at the following' Municipality ; Address Annette Terry Assyria Township 8094 Tasker Road j Bellevue, Ml 49021 Penelope Ypma Baltimore Township 3100 E. Dowling Road I Hnsbngs, Ml 49058 Debra Knight Barry Township I 11300 S M-43 Hwy Dolton. Ml 49046 j Regular Business Hours Hours on Hours on Saturday Tuesday, October 31, 2020 , November 3, 2020 L____________________ . Amanda Browrt Cartton Township Marcia Scramiln Castleton Township Anita Menncil Hastings Charter Township 85 Welcome Road Hastings. Ml 49050 I By Appt 10 OO orn — 6 OO pm 7 OO nm - 8 OO pm By Appt 9.00 am - 5:00 pm 7.00 am — 8:00 pm 6 OO am — 4:00 pm 7:00 am — 8:00 pm 8 OO am - 4 OO pm t 7:00 am - 8 OO pm _____________________________ ! Tuesday 9 am — 1 pm i Wednesday 9 am - 5 pi । Wednesdays - 10 anr- noon '_________________________ 885 River Road Hastings. Ml 49058 _____________________ 8 OO am - 4 00 pm ' 3 uosdays 9 am - noon & ,1-4 pm _____ nJ Deborah Jackson Hope Township 5463 S M-43 Hwy ■ Wednesdays 9 am — noon & . Hastings, Ml 49058 ' 1:15-3 OO pm Thursday & __________________________ | Friday 1 pm - 3 pm 8 OO am - 4 OO pm Sharon Olson Irving Township j 3425 Wing Road j Hastings. Ml 49058 8 OO am - 4 OO pm Shen Babcock Johnstown Twp i 13641 S. M-37 Battle Creek. Ml 49017 Holly Carpenter Maple Grovo Twp ! 721 Durkee Street Nashville, Mt 49073 I——— — -- - _ . . .-- _ L By Appt I ------ Monday & Wednesday 8 am - 4 pm or by Appt. 7.00 am - 8:00 pm 7 OO nm - 8 OO pm I______________________ | 7 OO nm - 8.00 pm i______________________ . 7 OO am - 8:00 pm 8 OO am - 4.00 pm --- .. , , |»|« ■ ---------------- J H.......________ __________ ■ 7 OO am - 8.00 pm 8 OO am - 4 OO pm By Appt. Only __________________________ • 7350 Lindsey Road j Plainwell, Ml 49080 Mon - Wed - Friday 9.30 am - 1 30 pm 9.00 am-5 pm 7 OO am - 8 OO pm Rod Goebel Prairiovtlle Twp i 1015 S. Norns Road ‘ Dolton, Ml 49046 Mon - Thursday 9 urn — 5 pm 8-4 pm 7 OO am - 8 00 pm Robin Hawthorne Rutland Twp. 2461 Heath Road Hastings. Ml 49058 Monday — Thursday 9 am - 3 pm 8 00 am - 4 pm 7.00 nm - 8 OO pm Cindy Wiltshire Thomapple Twp. 200 E Main Street Middleville, Ml 49333 Monday - Thursday 9 am — 4 pm 7 OO am - 3 pm 7.00 am - 8.00 pm Nancy Stanton Woodland Township 156 S Main PO Box 98 Woodland. Ml 48897 Tuesday 5pm - 7 pm Saturday 9am - 11 am 8 OO am - 4 pm 7:00 am - 8 OO pm Juno Saurrnan City of Hastings j 201 East State Street | Hastings, Ml 49058 । Mon - Thuro - 9 am -3 pm Friday 9 am — noon 8:00 om-4.00 pm Monday — Fnday O am — 5 pm PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following proposals will appear on the ballot COUNTY: JAIL AND SHERIFF DEPARTMENT PROJECT Shall ths County of Barry issue its general obligation unlimited tax bonds m an amount not to exceed Twenty-five Million Dollars (S25.000.000) in eno or more series for the purpose cf paying the necessary costs of con­ struction, furnishmg and equ.ppmg a new County Jail and Sheriff Department offices; real properly acquisition and site work; together with design, engineering and financing costs, and related appurtenances? When issued, the bonds will be outstanding a maximum of 26 years (anticipated 2021 through and indud.ng 2046), exclusive of refunding. It is estimated that it will be necessary to levy 0 1722 mill ($0.1722 per $1,000 ol taxable value) to pay debt service on the bonds in the first year of the levy, and to levy an estimated average of 0 4501 mill ($0 4501 per $1,000 of taxable value) for debt serv.ee in tho following years, unit the bonds are rebred. It is estimated that a property located in Barry County with a taxable va'ue of $50,000 will pay $8 61 in the first year of the levy. In subsequent years it is estimated that a property located in Ba^ry County with a tax­ able value ot $50,000 wiii pay. on average, S22.51 per year thereafter. The tax revenue received by the County as a result of tho unl.mited tax bo ^ds5 Wl * d’£bursed *°County of Barry to repay the proposed DOWLING PUBUC UBRARY: (Baltimore Twp) Shall the ixevious voted maeas# In tho 15 min motion imposed under an.de IX Sec 6 of tho M chlgan Constitution's general ad valorem taxes witlvn Baltimore Townsh p be renewed at .30 mats (S 30 per SI 000 ol taxable value) lor the period ol 2021-2024 tncluswo lol Dowl.ng Pubtic Ubrary; and shad the Township levy such renewal rn millage lor said pur­ pose thereby raising in tho first year an estimated S17 261 DOWLING PUBUC UBRARY (Johnstown Two) Sha’I the P^vious votedhncrease in the 15 mdi Station imposed under article X Sc-c 6 of the Michigan Const.tution's general ad valorem taxes within Johnstown Townshp be renewed aI 30 tSs (5 30 per S1 000 of va-ue) for penod of 2021-2024 inclusive for Dowling Pub'c bbrary and shall the Town p levy such renewal in millage for sa.d pur­ poses hereby ra^ng in the first year an estimated S33 624 H ORANGEVILLE: q PROPOSAL TO RENEW MILLAGE FOR ROAD IMPROVEMENTS Shall the previous voted increase in the tax S Article IX. Sec 6 of tho Michigan Constitutfon on generaUiTvalofom taxes wi’Ji.n Orangeville Township be renewed al "i 5 m;lis ($1 50 per October 19, 2020 @ 10:00 am at ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP HALL 7350 Lindsey Road, Plainwell, Michigan 49080 Townships participating in the October 19. 2020 date: Orangeville Township i_____________________ Melody Risner Orangeville Twp Janice C Lippert 284 N Briggs Road Yankee Springs Twp ]i Middleville. Ml -'.9333 October 23, 2020© 1:00 pm at MAPLE GROVE TOWNSHIP HALL 721 Durkee Street, Nashville. Ml 49073 Townships participating in the October 23.2020 date Maple Grove Township ______________________ i 7 OO am - 8 OO pm ' 8 OO am - 4 OO pm 915 Reed Street PO Box 1 Wednesday 1pm —4.30 pm ; 679. Nashville Ml 49073 7:00 a m. to 3.00 prn October 7, 2020 @ 10:00 am at JOHNSTOWN TOWNSHIP HALL 13641 S. M-37 Hwy., Battle Creek, Michigan 49017 Townships participating in the October 7. 2020 date: Johnstown Township October 22, 2020 @ 11:00 am at PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP HALL 10115 S. Norris Road, Delton, Michigan 49048 Townships participating in the October 22. 2020 date- Prairieville Township October 20. 2020 @ 10:30 am at RUTLAND TOWNSHIP HALL 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, Michigan 49058 Townships participating in the October 20 2020 date Rutland Township October 20, 2020 @ 9:30 am at THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP HALL 200 East Main Street Middleville, Ml 49333 Townships participating in the October 20, 2020 date: Thomapple Township October 13, 2020 @ 6:30 pm at WOODLAND TOWNSHIP HALL 156 South Main, PO Box 98, Woodland, Ml 48897 Townships participating in the October 13,2020 date. Wood'and Township October 7, 2020 @ 10 a.m. at YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP HALL 284 North Briggs Road, Middleville, Ml 49333 Townsh ps participating in the October 7, 2020 date. Yankee Springs Township I______________________ j 7 OO am - 8 OO pm 7 OO am - 8 00 pm October 9, 2020 at 10:00 am at CITY OF HASTINGS 201 East State Street Hastings, Michigan 49058 Townshps participating in the October 9. 2020 date- City of Hastngs The Pub'.c Accuracy Test is conducted to demonstrate that the program and the computer that will be used to tabulate the resuits for the election have been prepared m accordance with law. MONDAY, OCTOBER 19. 2020 LAST DAY FOR VOTER REGISTRATION OTHER THAN IN-PERSON I $1,000 of taxable value) for the period 0! 2021 through 2024 inclusive for township road improvements; and shall the Township levey such renewal in mi.iage for pUrpQSe thereby, raising in the first year an extimated $240,242. PRAIRIEVILLE: R *1 - TO enew EXISTING POUCE PROTECTION MILLAGE Sha.l the exp;nng previous voted existing 16-mill tax limitation imposed under Article ix, Section 6 of the Michigan Constitution on general ad ‘.^s within Prairieville Township, of .8174 mil's ($8174 per Uxable value) bo renewed at the original voted .8174 m lls h $100° of taxable value) and levied for four (4) years, 2021 2024 inclusive, for the purpose of continuing lo provide funds for the S£Ownsh’P Pohco Department, raising an estimated Persons with special needs, as defined in toe Americans with D'.sab.i.ties Act, should contad toe City or Township Clerk. Persons who are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired may place a call through toe Michigan Relay Center TDDH1-800-649-3777. This notice is gwen as required by law (MCL 168.498(3). YOU MUST BE REGISTERED TOQUALIFYASAVOTERI QUALIFICATIONS TO VOTE Citizen of the United States At least 18 years of ago on or before November 3, 2020 Resident of Michigan and the township/city whore you are applying to vote. th 1116 flfst year tho millage is levied? 5L“J?oRENEW EXISTING ROAD MILLAGE 5 h , fiHOxpirin9 Previous voted existing 15-mJI tax limitation imposed Il unoer Arpdo ix, Section 6 of the Michigan Constitution on general ad Xu es Prairieville Townsh-p, of .9087 mills ($.9087 per 7e axab!e va,ue). bo renewed at the original voted .9087 mils Sl'000 of taxable value) and levied for (our (4) years. 2021 - n ,Of ‘ho purpose of continuing to provide funds for the Prainovue Township Roads raising an estimated $162,298 00 in the f>rt f3" Ms/riiTorshp Awcilry TxsrijCkA Ci^tonTwrahp „ENew existing rhe protection millage Sha previous voted existing 15-cmll tax limitation imposed under Aric.e ix. secJ,on 6 of toe Michigan Constitution on general ad ?es Wl'An Prairieville Township, ol .9559 mills ($ 9559 per 3X36:9 valuo). be renewed at the original \oted 9559 mJIs onSmcb6' $1>00° of taxable va,uel ond ,ev:cd ,or ,our (4) yearG’ 2021 ~ « PAMELA A. PALMER, BARRY COUNTY CLERK on behalf of: » a Hcpek^p Deters JxXiT TwriripCW for ‘ho purpose ol continuing to provide funds for the Tc*nsh;p Fire Department, raising an estimated $170 729 00 Pcev,Ous voted increase in the tax Hmtaton imposed under e J n?60 6 of ‘he Michigan Constitution on general ad valorem ' h 1 Woodland Township be renewed at two (2) mills ($2 per Sl.oou 01 taxable y pofCd of 2021 |h,0Uljh 2024 incluS|ve tor and townsh p, and shall too Townsh p levy such renewal in $182 600007^ thwety fa!Sin9 ,n |he ,ir5t year an esnmated Pub 'C Accuracy Tests will take p’ace as follows Oct°ber 17, 2020 at 2 00 pm at ASSYRIA TOWNSHIP HALL . 8004 Tasker Road, Belluvue, Michigan 49021 _____ ’jrsris Cm Eit-rriTcw'-ih? Pene^ Ypra C hSeton TjwmSp MrcaSorir. TorshpCJerx Birry fotfshp KHt-n£C!wkrfowrshtp ArAMkref TsrtfjpCkrt htngTcwnhii SwOw JotmtaMi Townie Sbe'iSwca Tcwnshp On 0rrgr4i»Tar^; Pnire'ile Twsbp RodGotW TorthpDrt Pwmppk Woodifa farcy TmktsNq �u^me law Bipartisan bills to expunge more criminal records in Michigan likely to become.. nt Pag* 10 — Thursday, October 1,2020 — The Hastings Banner Page * . . . r~~~ __ _ cheaper, h “Making expungement .. Bills that would likely make hundreds of thousands more Michigan resident* eligible to have their criminal records wiped clean passed the state House last week w ith bipart i san support. They arc now on their way to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s desk, where they arc expected to be signed into law. ... The package would dramatically change Michigan’s system for expunging f0”11”* records. Advocates .say it would ,n. opportunities for employment and ,ous,n£ . many who have previously strugg e w carrying old convictions despiteyears of stay­ ing out of the criminal justice system. -Making expungement cheaper, easier and available to more residents than ever before will remove the barriers that hold too many people back." Rep. Graham Filler. R-DeWitt. said in a statement. “This will change lives for the better by giving people access to the well-paying jobs drey have always dreamed about, financing options so they can buy a home for their fam­ ily and the educational opportunities they need to better their future.” Il’s unclear exactly how many people will be made eligible for record clearing under the package, but (he effect is expected to be wide­ spread. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan said in a statement that twice as many Detroiters — he estimated 160,000 — would be eligible for expungement if the bills are made into law. A data scientist with the City said in June that Wayne County eligibility would expand from easier and available to more residents than ever before will remove the barriers that hold too many people back.” Rep. Graham Filler, R-DeWitt 152,000 people to about 358,OCX). The farthest-reaching change is likely to lx? from the Clean Slate bill, which would create a system that would automatically clear peo­ ples’ records without requiring them to apply if they have not committed another crime. It would expunge misdemeanors seven years after sentencing and felonies 10 years after sentencing or when they’re released from incarceration (whichever comes later). People could get up to two felonies and four misdemeanors automatically cleared under the legislation. Violent crimes, “crimes of dishonesty” like forgery, crimes punishable by more than 10 ycars in prison, and other serious crimes like human trafficking would not be eligible. The automatic process is likely to have a major impact, in part, because the process for expunging records can often be confusing and costly, especially for people who do not have legal representation. A University of Michigan study from 2019 found that only 65 percent of people eligible for expungement actually do so within five years of becoming eligible. KxP’nd (he nuX; „f conviction’ eligi­ ble for expungement via appliconon than the automatic proee«) <’P10 !h?C fC °‘ «ies and an unlimi^ number of mistlcmeanors could be expunged but no mon: lh»n two assault,ve crimes and no more than one felony if It S punishable by more ih’" 10 ycars ,n prison. • Shorten the wai j tinlc to apply for expungement, makine i possible for mtsdemeanors lo be expunged after three years, felonies after seven yean and serious misde­ meanors or a single felony W «vc • Allow felonies or misdemeanors from lhe same 24-hour period to Ik treated as one con­ viction for expungement A.ssaul,ivc crimes, crimes involving n dangerous weapon and crimes punishable by 10 or more years in person can’t be included. . , r • Create a process for peoP,c convicted of multiple marijuana misdemeanors to apply for streamlined expungement, which would require prosecutors who choose to challenge the expungement to prove that the crime would still have been a crime if it occurred after adult-use marijuana became legal in 2018. Aggrieved panics also would be allowed to ask for a court to reconsider their decision on an expungement request. • Bar certain crimes from expungement, including crimes that can bring a sentence of life in prison, domestic violence, traffic offenses where someone was seriously injured or died, child abuse, sexual assault, and driv­ ing while intoxicated. LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENT’S ESTATE FILE NO. 20-28588-DE Estate of Geraldine McCracken. Date of birth: 4/16/1943. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Geraldine McCracken, died 7/15/2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will bo forever barred unless presented to Kristi Brazelton or Russell McCracken, personal representative, or to both tho probate court at 206 West Court Street, Ste. 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after tho date of publication of this notice. Date: 9/22/2020 Rober L. Byington P-27621 222 West Apple Street. P.O. Box 248 Hastings, Michigan 49058 269-945-9557 ‘ Kristi Brazelton or Russell McCracken 835 Bruce Drive and N 16335 S. Main Street Middleville; Ml 49333 or HermansviUe. Ml 49847 269-509-6848 148406 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of tho revised ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP SYNOPSIS PUBLIC HEARING PARKWAY DRIVE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 2020-1 Held Electronically & In-Person September 22, 2020 Submitted by Mel Risner/Clerk Attested to by Tom Rook/Supervisor judicature act of 1961.1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212. that the following mortgage will bo foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale lo the highest bidder for cash or cashier^ check at the place of hold ng the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM. on October 29, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may bo greater on the day of sale. Placing the Irghest bld at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property'. A potential purchaser Is encouraged to contact tho county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee tor this information: Namefs) of the mortgagor(s)- Edward L Werner, single and Debra L HUI, single Mortgagee: Original Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for GMAC Mortgage Corporation., its successors and assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB, d/b/a Christiana Trust, not Individually but as trustee for Pretium Mortgage Acquisition Trust Date of Mortgage Recording: January 6,2006 claimed due on date of notice: $62,227.39 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Beginning at tho Northeast comer of the South 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 10­ 2-9 at the West side ot M43 HWY R/W South along the West side R/W 370 feet to the beginning. South along R/W 10 RD West 16 Rods, North 10 rods, East to the beginning. Common street address (if any): 5328 S M 43 Hwy, Hastings, Ml 49058-9237 ■Rte redemption period shall be 1 year from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of tho Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale <x to the mortgage holder for damaging the property Judicature act of 1961.1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212. that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and dear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Calvon Kidder and Al.ce Marvita Kidder, as Joint Tenants with Full Rights of Survivorship and Not as Tenants in Common Origna! Mortgagee: Financial Freedom Senior Funding Corporation, a Subsid.ary of IndyMac Bank, F.S.B. during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a mi'dary service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less tnan 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact tho attorney tor the party foreclosing the mortgage at tne telephone number stated in this notice. Mellon Trust Company. NA as Trustee for Mortgage Assets Management Senes I Trust Date of Mortgage: October 5.2006 Date of Mortgage Recording: October 17,2006 Amount claimed duo on date of notice: $124,902.62 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Village of Woodland, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Lot 9 and the East 33 feet of Lot 8 of Block 10 of the Village of Woodland, according to tho recorded Plat thereof Common street address (if any)- 160 E Franklin St, Woodland. Ml 48897-9761 The redemption period shall bo 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). ' If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 the borrower wJI bo held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has Date of notice: October 1.2020 Trott Law, PC. Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 Estate of Leslie W. Cogswell. Date of birth: 5/9/1935. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: Tho decedent, Leslie W. Cogswell, died August 26, 2020. Creditors of tho decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented io-Julie Congtaf personal representative, or to.bothihe probate wburt at 206 West Court Street Sta, 302. Hastings. Ml 49058 and tho personal representative within 4 months after tne date of publication of this notice. Date: 9/25/2020 Rober L. Byington P-27621 222 West Apple Street. P.O. Box 248 Hastings, Michigan 49058 269-945-9557 Julio Conger 13679 Jackson Road Lake Odessa, Michigan 48849 616-902-0011 148557 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of tho revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA236, MCL600.3212. that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the drcu.t court In Barry County, starling promptly at 1:00 PM, on October 8, 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the h’ghest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this Information: Name(s) of the mortgagors): Jack Barrus. and Cecilene Barrus, husband and wife. Gale Barrus and Teresa Barrus, a married couple and Kim Terpening a single woman, all as joint tenants with rights of survivorship Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for lender and lender’s successors and/or assigns Foreclosing Assignee Gf any): The Bank of New York Mellon, F/K/A The Bank of New York as trustee for registered Holders of CWABS. Inc., Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2006-3 Date of Mortgage: December 19.2005 Date of Mortgage Record.ng: January 10.2006 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $70,607.51 Description of the mortoaoed premises: Situated in Township of Baltimore Barry County. Michigan, and described as: A parcel of tand in the Northeast fractional 1/4 of Section 33, Town 2 North, Range 8 West, described as commencino 14 and 1/2 Rods South of where the North Ime of said Section 33 crosses highway M-37, thence East 14 rods thence South 3 rods, thenco West 14 rods, thence North’ 3 rods to the place of beginning. Common street address (if any): 9035 S M 37 Hwy. Dowling. Ml 49050-8709 * The redemption period -wYi be 6 months from the date ol such sale. ^ermlned abandoned in (09-24)(10-15) PU'POMS ” def'nCd ordered to active the party foreclosing t? number stated in th 9 * "lL.s the property at too mortgage holder for m the attorney for woe * UM> telephone 9 This notice is from ?rt1Cb; ^uetty. 148016 MRS photo contest page.) .. ._ reta;| With 116,000 workers who industry employs about 877. Fhat’s earn $21.6 billion in wages each year. I • the direct impact. Indirectly, rc arie s pur, chase goods and services, such as services, security staff, accountants and more. And their employees spend money as well. Public Sector Consultants study noted. Additional information is available online at communicability. Provided by the Barry County offices of Edward Jones Brandon Wilkins Date of notice. Iron Law. P.C, Member SIPC Mcmbcr s,pc 307 E Green St, Ste. 1 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-2003 2W 31440 Northwest^ Hv.v o.1>le 145 Farmington H Jis, M| (246) 642-2515 334 146975 more inclined to desire instant gratification - wc want results now. Translated into the investment world, this could mean we want to see big returns in a short period. However, despite the popular mythology, it’s quite hard to turn enormous profits on investments overnight - or even over weeks or months. But as the years pass, we leam lhe value of thinking long-term - how investments we made years ago. and have added to steadily, are now yielding results that can help build the resources we need to reach our objectives. • Don’t go it alone. Some of us, when we’re young, have a tendency to think we have all the answers and don’t need much help in our endeavors. But age gives us the wisdom to recognize that, although we may have acquired much knowledge over the years, we can still use some help in specialized areas, such as creating a long­ term investment strategy. These suggestions arc appropriate for anyone - and they can help you on your journey toward your goals. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones. Member SIPC Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Pit sine\ \ Services BELLS CONSTRUCTION- 18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements, power washing. 269-320-3890 rtA^ENDSLEY* fabri­ cation and repair, custom 'buckets, bale spears, ^.-.<-411269-804-7506 WOnncG ALL I1ARDw->lnut. White Oak. Tulip I\»plar. Call tor Pnnn8- Will buy ,ini.|.. Wji. nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Lo8B»% (269)818-7793. ' I- nr Sale CARRON SPORT AIR 1 Jockey Table. $300,00 OBO. Phone 269-906-1654. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE *''' Art and lhe to tSc I ,u.11 Ovl R,r'. KASSON 10FF OAK Pool Table, excellent condition. $1,000.00 or OBO. 269-908­ 1654 harm FOR SALE: NICE Western Saddle. 16 inch round skirt, silver cunchos. Call for de­ tails- must sell- best offer or first S.UX). 269-948-4054. I nr Rent POLE BARN FOR RENT, 1420669 (09-10X1001) Jeff Domenico, AAMSO 450 Meadow Run Dr. Suite 100 Hastings, Ml 45058 (269) 948-8265 Those who have lived a Investors, too, benefit from long time have done a lot, having seen and done things seen a lol - and can teach us before. Did you chase a “hot” a lot. And that’s certainly true stock only to have found it when it comes to investing. cooled off before you bought Consider some of the it? Did you buy too many of lessons you might leam from the same type of investments, cip^rienccd investors: only to sec your portfolio take nri- Regulate y opr emotions. a bigger hit during a dow nturn In the investment world, than it would have if you had there’s always something diversified? In the investment coming at us that could sound arena, as in most walks of life, scary: political flashpoints, patterns emerge, and once you economic news, and even leam to recognize them, you those once-in-a-gencration can leam from past mistakes. occurrences, such as the • Know yourself. When COVID-19 pandemic. But we reach a certain age, most older people may take these of us know ourselves pretty events in stride; in fact, well. But you don’t have baby boomers and members to wait decades to gain this of the Sileni Generation knowledge - at least not (bom between 1925 and when it comes to investing. 1945) are coping better For example, you should emotionally with the impacts quickly gain a good sense of COVID-19 than younger of your ability to withstand age cohorts, according to risk. How? Just consider the 2020 Edward Jones/Agc how you react when the Wave Four Pillars of the market declines sharply. If New Retirement study. And you find yourself losing sleep by keeping control of your over your lasses - even if emotions, you may be less they’re just on paper - you likely to make moves such might be taking on too much as selling quality investments risk for your own comfon with good fundamentals just level. Conversely, if market because their prices have downturns don’t bother you fallen in the midst of an as much as lack of growth in overall market decline. your portfolio, you might be • Learn from experience. investing too conservatively By definition, the older we for your own risk tolerance. * get, the more experiences we • Take a longer-term will have. And most people do perspective. When we’re indeed leam from experience. young, we sometimes are accordance with MCL 60n qSia’ or.»subject r0al member on active duty ti.'?« oenod o' aC"’,) duty?as concluded less than on ? ?fl0 or if y°u havo been 1421782 148315 town.” . % u..v nearby* onc As an extra inCC"l’L card if they take shopper will earn a S L Qr pholo of a selfie shopping at a loua i( t0 their purchase chnng the the Twitter, Facebook or ... ~ 4 “ natjcaHy enter hashtag //nearby. tha^H^inncr wi|| be chothem in the contest. Th dom drawing, sen the following ‘ fd r to wjn and Participants must be !8 or o , make sure their post is pub he. r plete description of contest rules, visit tne Lessons from experienced investors damaging the p’opwn,edemption period. Attennon htmS^^e a service (248) 642-2515 1422113 (10-01)(10-22) STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENT’S ESTATE FILE NO. 20-2B609-DE responsib'o to th0 mortgage lorofe * 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 (248)642-2515 Divorce may be filed against her. pursuant to MCL 600 307^ ™ bonowe' »“ *» hold Dale of notice: Soptembw 24,2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 easier for people with <.r j(?bs w)thgel higher wages and Rc5earcbers at out threatening pubb<- > • d |hal people the University of M.ch gan ' ed saW th „ who had their records )n the wages rise an average following year. Financial FOCUS tho date of this posting or a default judgment of the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone This notice is from a debt collector. Retail businesses across the state will cclerate Buy Nearby Weekend Oct. 2-4, offering special merchandise or sales and (he chance for one lucky shopper to win a $500 gift card by posting a photo while shopping local with the tfnearby hashtag. It s all part of the Michigan Retailers Association’s year-round Buy Nearby cam­ paign that encourages shoppers to keep their money in the Mitten. Michiganders typically send $185 billion to out-of-state retailers, according to a 2018 economic study by Public Sector Consultants. If residents changed one oul of 10 purchases to a Michigan store, the state economy would get a $1.2 billion boost - and nearly 10,600 more jobs, according to the MR A. ’ ‘‘Supporting downtown stores is more important than ever during the pandemic,” MRA President and CEO Bill Harlan said. “No amount of shopping online for conve­ nience and saving a few pennies is worth looking at empty storefronts in your down- Court. She must file a response within 28 days from concluded less than 90 days ago. or if you have been This notice is from a debt collector. 0,1 7 ’J77he" first l« 'nclude Michigan would be i|onl3li(; process, low-level felonies in .„n<n,«cment nmkes Annual ‘Buy Nearby’ weekend is Oct. 2-4 on August 3, 2020 in the Barry County Circuit ordered to active duly, p'ease contact the attorney for number slated In this notice. .. t Jcbigan, said in a statement that it’s “a irLC|k°nc ’.n statc criminal record-sealing polJ hat will help hundreds of thousands of people in Michigan and help drive the naliona M,n?vrS‘,|l*On On rc^orni forward.” * ichigan would be a leader in expunge­ ment reform if Whitmer signs lhe bills into aw. Only Utah, California, Pennsylvania and 1 cw •’en»cy allow low-level offenses to be . Number 2020-488-DD, from Unda Christine Meral check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on November 5, Iho kI' ^OoPer’ executive director of Safe &. NOTICE auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Bank of Now York Date of Mortgage: December 20,2005 Amount Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised X passage. “M1.. .r***«» Omer Ergun Mera! has filed for divorce, Case 147491 7 pm. all board members present (Perino; remotely). Guests; 2 Motion carried to open public hearing 7:01 pm Public comment: no objections Motion carried to close public hearing 7:08 pm Board Meeting called to order 7:08 Resolution 0920-1 adopted Public comment: none Motion carried to accept Bernie’s Haul Away Mobile Recycling Program Board Comments Motion to adjourn, 7:30 meeting ad­ journed . * 30x50, concrete floor. 703­ 731-5665. rimiRMtn hit. ;i..:! 4n inti Ixc’.crciKc, 1 xr t’ial 5Utu* the wt>f IX li cuaodUnt. MCtNiJI Th i <’< V'C h»v Our intvnwt ih.u 4t| in new pipe, i oppertututy lu rctXHt I-K rr i> v „ 11 fan H... r.‘'-I- •'> « |'! the tc-uirr, dwellir -C hfr4n«g tr-.u.rrd ,. ! £(J0 �r« Const«i,ers COURT NEWS Roger Dale May n v7 f was convicted ot po^cs / * • ' ‘ddlcvilk, subsunce, meth.unphetandn .°i- atcomr«’'ed 20 in Hastings He w »• xslas>’ May Michael Schipper to 7a j b> Jl,di;<; :! (or 72 days terved. ,"i«hcred- conn fines and costs, and ph‘.2? ,,:1> 5'?98 for 24 months. A clid "" l’,'>bal,°" while Ins operator’s lieensrsv’1"11 was dismissed, * 'ls suspended Austin Ihylor Neu deck. 26. of Wayland was convicted of third d,••>... ,i ,. ,• u' knowingly causin’* nlnsi/'t C ” a n,se ~ a child 2nd or IbmL-fu h sh '? S,rik'"’2 lhe child’s motXl Ma< 4 i^'T .in'° T.iwndii-y u *•« sentenced - 1 n ‘‘‘nkce 2* ’ Hc bv Springs Judge Schtpper to two days in jail, with Credit for two days served, ordered to pay S998 in court fines and costs, and nh™i J . • , 24 months. ' °n >,rota,‘’n '<>r Aaron Lee Pitt. 32, of Middleville, was eonvteted of operating a vehicle near Pannalee and Cherry Valley roads while beine intoxi­ cated as a third-time offender, malicious dcstnictton ol pohee property and assaulting rcsisting/ohstntcting a police officer June 21 tn Thomapple Township. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to 90 days in jail, with credit for eight days served, ordered to pay $734 in court lines and costs, and placed on probation for 24 months. Pitt was instructed io enter and complete the. Swift and Sure Sanctions Probation program, and pay a pro­ gram assessment fee of $40 a month. Charges of having an open container of alcohol in a vehicle and driving on a suspended license were dismissed. Dustin C. VnnDykcn, 39. of Kalamazoo, was convicted of false pretenses of less than $999 but more than $20 Jan. 8, 2017, in Baltimore Township, when he, with the intent to defraud or cheat, made or used a false pre­ tense to obtain money or personal property or lhe use of a valuable service. He was sen­ tenced by Judge Schipper lo serve 34 to 120 months in prison, with credit for 255 days served. He was ordered lo pay $3,198 in court fines and costs, including $2,200 in restitu­ tion. VnnDykcn has been convicted of prior felonies, including stealing or retaining a financial transaction device without consent Feb. I. 2(XJ8. in Allegan County; failure to pay child support Nov. 5, 2009, in Barry County: receiving and concealing stolen prop­ erty, a motor vehicle, July 8, 2010, in Barry County; and domestic violence, third offense, May 23. 2014, in Allegan County. The Hastings Banner —■ Thursday, October 1,2020 — Page 11 nergy commits $12 million to help customers affected by pandemic Enefpy,s Pr<)vidin<» xn «... Consumed'' .^dents c * 2 million to with this new assistance. The funding will go directly to customers in need and to Michigan help withenentf ing customer, «>"' nonprofit organizations. miunent w^'P’dcmic ha, all^ '«mn.unitics 1 hc best way for people to get help is to call the COVIP-’9 ^|, Michigan 2-1-1. a free service that connects individuals "We stand |u.)p nd are ttorking with nonprofit agencies in their communities, wvundthn^jme like nom&nnd neigh- including ........................ r Consumers ------------the new financial ..., help burs through n ,. preside,,! , . Kilt" P<’PPc. Energy is announcing. Consumers Energy cusConsumers ^cpt.hnd chief cxccu- tomers struggling ” to pay a bill ......................... also may call 800­ live officer, s )lio|1 contn£llio "°“r 477-5050. company > »>* families and h,! tt|11 Pnwde Since March. Consumers Energy and its char­ a lifeline to 'cir feet ^'ses. help­ itable foundation have provided more than $16 ing them sW-v. Michigan can fu|iv Can dcfcaI ,he million to help Michigan residents. Consumers pandemic and ^My reopen.Eneigy has mobilized to respond to customers’ Consumers En rgJ inL*0’! to help about needs by suspending energy shut-offs for non25.000 household nnu IJJOO sma|| payment for residential and most business cus- tomers, making payment arrangements for cus­ tomers in need, and by providing access to feder­ al, state and local resources that can help small businesses. "Wc knew from lhe start this pandemic would create unimaginable challenges for many people and businesses,’’ Brian Rich .Consumers Energy’s chief customer officer, said. "We’re talking about our neighbors, our friends and even our co-work­ ers. We know we have an obligation lo help our communities stay resilient through this lime.” Heading into winter, Consumers Energy also is working_ to keep . energy costs low for customers. Customers should pay 20 percent less next year compared to a decade ago, or less than $230 a day, for natural gas. BARRY COUNTY DRAIN COMMISSIONER CLEAR LAKE DRAIN NOTICE OF LETTING AND DAY OF REVIEW OF DRAINAGE DISTRICT BOUNDARIES AND REVIEW OF APPORTIONMENTS PATE: Thursdav, October 15, 2(120 T1ME: LOCATION: 1:00 p.m. Barn County Drain Commissioner’s Office 220 W Slate Street Hastings, Michigan 49058 ..rcTtON*. Q n c\)u ( 69) 945-,3S5 The Barry l'u»ty Drain Ccinnibnioncr will meet on the above date, time and location to receive construction bids for the Clear I-ake »»^7' «■" I* opened mid publicly announced. c Drain will he let in one section(s) us follows, each section havinc the length, average depth and width as set [he Cl* forth. Clear M e Veniiot1 Drain: Approximately 1,300feet in length and comprised of enclosed drain with a pump station. The following items will be required and a contract let for the same. 830 le STM SWR. Directional Dnll 304 LF. 4" S IM SWR, Directional Drill 350 LE 8” Perf STM SWR w/ Sock 100 LF. 12” Pcrf. STM SWR w/ Sock 20 LF. 18” STM SWR 1 EA. MDOT R-86-F End Section w/ Grate 1 E.A. 7-foot Diameter Manhole 1 EA. 1 EA. 4-loot Diameter Manhole 4-foot Diameter Manhole w/ Turndown 2 4-foot Ixach Basin Two vehicles stolen in Orangeville Township ea. 3 EA. 8” Cleanout A 48-ycar-old man reported his 41-year-old daughter-in-law's vehicle had been stolen from lhe 8000 block of Mullen Road in Orangeville Township between 7:30 aan. and noon Sept. 21. The 2005 Chevrolet Town and Country was later found at the nearby Circle Pines Campground. The man said it had mechanical problems, which is why the thief probably didn’t get far. He said he saw a man. who appeared to be intoxicated, walking in the area when he left for work .around 7 a.m. About an hour later, another vehicle was reported sto­ len from the nearby 5000 block of Mullen Ridge Drive. A 45-year-old man said his Jeep Commander had been stolen that morning. Hc thought the keys were in the vehicle at the time. Police said they are on the lookout for the vehicle. Soil Erosion and Scdlmp. HuK Ftoad man hits neighbor with vehicle A 59-year-old man said a neighbor dumped trash on his property, stole his sign and hit him with a vehicle in the 7000 block of Huff Road in Assyria Township at 6:08 p.m. Sept. 24. He told police rhe neighbor, a 39-year-ok! man. hit him al a slow rate of speed while he was checking the mail. He'Said'if’was intentional, since his neighbor had lo drive oh The wrong side of lhe road to hit him. The man had minor bruising and swelling on his left arm. When interviewed by the police, the alleged suspect denied both hitting the man with his car and dumping lhe trash, but admitted to taking lhe sign, which hc claimed was legal. The suspect had called police at 9:13 p.m. that night and claimed the 59-year-old man had shot him. Police found no evidence that he had been shot, although the suspect had painted accusations about lhe man on the outside of his fence. The graffiti claimed the victim had molested him “for $10,000 and a moped, justice will come soon.” Information was forward­ ed lo the prosecutor’s office. aLCtittlrd 1 LS. Site Restoration 500 S.Y. Mulch Blanket 35 S.Y. Riprap 1 LS Mobilization (5% Max.) 1 LS. Utility Coordination 1 LS Site Clearing 1 EA. 4” Backflow Preventer 1 EA. Fiberglass Pump Chamber inlc. Electrical Connections 25 1 ST. Miscellaneous (l*ump Chamber Designed and Provided by Others) Concrete Generator Pad 20 Kw Kohler Generator EA | This Notice ci Ixtting. the plans, specifications and bid proposal shall be considered a part of the Contract The Contract will be let in bccordao^-with the Contract Documents now on file nt Barry County Drain Commissioner’s Office end available to interested rpafties. Bids wilfbc made and receix cd in accordance with these documents. Bidding Documents, including plans and specifications, may be examined al the following locations. Barry County Drain Commissioner 220 If'State Street Hastings, Michigan 49058 Copies of Bidding Documents may only Ik* obtained upon payment of a $25 00 non-nfanrfable deposit An additional non-refiindablc charge of S 10.00 will be required for sending out Bidding Documents. Bidding Documents may also be obtained at no cost by cmailuig a request to (ncncyre.lli^r,Iremi.-cpin. A pre-bid meeting will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 8, 2020 at the Barry County Courthouse, Commissioners Chambers, 220 W Stale Street, Hastings, Michigan, 49058. The Engineer will be present to discuss the project Prospective bidders arc required to attend and participate in the conference. All bidders must sign in by name of attendee and business Police use hlarcan to revive overdose victim Police responded lo lhe 2(X) block of Fuller Street in Nashville at 1:52 a.m. Sept. 24 after a 26-year-old woman reported a 39-year-old man was suffering from a spider bile. The man was unresponsive, but regained consciousness after he received three doses of Narcan. The man admitted to the officers he had used heroin, but the woman continued to claim he had been bitten by a spider. Emergency Medical Services personnel look him lo a hospital. intoxicated woman crashes with daughter A 26-year-old Grand Rapids woman was arrested for operating while being intoxicated after crashing her vehicle into a ditch in the 7000 block of Thomapple Lake Road in Castleton Township al 10:58 p.m. Sept. 14. A resident witnessed the crash and approached the vehicle. The driver’s eyes were open, but she appeared to be passed out on the wheel. Her 2-year-old daughter was in the back seat The woman woke up and told officers she had driven from Grand Rapids and was trying to pull into a driveway. Police said she was clear­ ly intoxicated and admitted to drinking a pint of vodka. She had a 037 blood alcohol con­ tent. Her boyfriend took custody of the daughter, at her request. She was previously arrest­ ed for operating a vehicle while intoxicated in March. represented. Only bids from bidders in attendance at the pre-bid conference ssill be opened. All others will be considered non-responsivc. A security deposit in the form of a cashier’s check, money order, certified check or bidders bond shall be submitted with any bids. No cash will be permitted. The security deposits of all unsuccessful bidders shall be returned afler the Contract is awarded. The Contract will be awarded to the low est responsive and responsible bidder giving adequate security for the performance of the work and meeting all conditions represented in the Instructions lo Bidders. The Contract completion date and the terms of payment will be announced at the time and place of letting. If no satisfactory bids are received, we reserve the right to reject any and all bids and to adjourn to a time and location os we shall announce. DAY of REVIEW of drainage DISTRICT BOUNDARIES AND RCVJEW.Of APEQRHQNMINTS DATE: Wednesday, October 28, 2020 TIME: LOCATION: 9:00 n.m. to 5:00 p.m. Barn County Drain Commissioner’* Office 220 W State Street Hastings, Michigan 49058 QUESTIONS: The Barry County Drain Commissioner will hold a Day of Review of Drainage District Boundaries and Review ot Apportionments on the above date, time and location The Day of Review is an opportunity to review the Drainage District boundaries and apportionment of benefits for the Drain with the Drain Commissioner or a staff member. A map of the proposed Drainage District boundary revisions cun be found on Barer County’s website at A 51-year-old Hastings man was flown to an area hospital after a head-on collision on Slate Road near Becker Road in Hastings Charter Township at 12:57 p.m. Sept. 25. A 57-year-oId Hastings man was taken by ambulance to an area hospital. He told police hc had been driving west on Stale Road, when the 51-year-old man failed lo stop while turning left onto State Road from Becker Road, and the vehicles collided. A general description of _______________ Portions of Sections Drain Name Drivers hospitalized after head-on collision jvww hafTyccaintyorg/p^ the the lands lands by by sccfion section number nronosed to be added or deleted from the Drainage District is as follows: Municipality’ ______ Portions of Sections Added ----------m 11 1? -------------------- Remmed____________ ----------- _____ Hnlnmnrf township----------Clear Lake Drain _______________ 3,4_______________ 4.5, 6 Johnstown tow nship--------• 'll be available tzb rtt'rii l OM/laVy The Drain Commissioner ciwnecrs and'or other staft’members will to assist individuals throughout the day and make revisions where necessary There is no need to schedule an appointment for a specific time on the Day ot Renew. The computation of exists for the Drain will also be available at the Day of Review. Drain assessments are collected in the same manner as property taxes and will appear on your winter tax bill. If drain assessments arc being collected tor more than one (I) year, you may pay the assessment in full w,th any interest to date at any lime and avoid further interest charges. Persons with disabilities neednrn accommodations for effective participation in the Day of Review should contact lhe Drain No suspects tor missing pistol X ->9 vear old man called police to report a pistol had been stolen from his residence in the 12000 block of Yoxl Street in Yankee Springs Township. The man said the pistol usualIv next to his bed. He realized that, in the process of moving out, it was missing. The man’s roommates denied taking the gun. l he ease remains under investigation. Man arrested after vehicle rampage , ... ,r ...„,n„n called police to say a man tried to hit her 63-year-old husband with A59-year-old worn n<-.» r of Road jn Caslleton T im a vehicle at theirhc wlls near his garage when he heard a cMe after midnight Sept. - • |d Vermontville man. had run over his fence with a vehicle saw that the suspect.. 4H-a( of |hc vchic)c> Mld ,hc suspect The two got III O a y ( () residence. where they saw damage on his SS"...«*.“ Broken light leads to meth, warrant arrests Drone 6 wil|, a lleadiight on Maui Street near Russell An officer pulled owr a'tn The officer smelled marijuana, and asked the Street in Middleville at l;0<> » •’'r C()nu.m l() seareh the vehicle. A small bag of a driver, a 39 year-old NasItvtlk ' • .* fo|. ^amphetamine. was found Undef lhe crystal substance, which late Pn sitting in that seat, a 27-year-old Hastings resmat of the rear seat.'Hie man « > h waffants. Another man in lhe backseat, 27, of idem, was arrested. He also M ^w;irran,, Nashville, was arrested for thru- act. _____________ Commissioner’s Office at die phone number listed above (voice) or through the Michigan Relay Center at 7-1-1 (1DD) at least 24 hours in advance of the Day of Review to request mobility, visual, hearing or other assistance. You may appeal the Dram Commissioner s decision to revise the district boundary to lhe Barry County Circwt Court within ten (10) days, and you may apitaHhe determination of apportionments to the Ikiny County Probate Court witinn ten (10) days. The following is a dcscrintinil oflhc sCVeral tracts or parcels of lands constituting the Special Assessment District of die Clear Ukc Drain, as well w a |ist ofPany eounly township. city, village to be assessed at large: bomW, H irn County. Michigan BaltigiflixJiUUuhip, Section 29- the South F2 of the Southeast I;4. sSion 32 Tlw ^ith^“X^or>hw«' W.Northas< 1/4' Soulh“,I V4' SuU,h"C" V4; 'n“ °f “*North“"1/4 of the Northwest 33 ” All Secuon34 lhe Section Section4 1/4olll)cNortlme,t 1/4; Ihc W«t 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4. otN. R»8\v. Barry^IR-higan UkNonhweu 1/4. . v o North 1/2 lhe North 12 ol the Southwest 1 4. Sections North ! 2. Tbc North II of the Southed 14 Section 6 Fast j/j o^he NorthcaM 14. The following County. Townships <- uml Villages liable tor at large Assessment Barney Baltm*’^ iowuship Johnston J* Unship M!clnb’‘ul of Transportation \ paled- ^‘^125.2020 I48‘H» Jun IXill Barry County Drain Cotnuussioncr �Faso 12 - Tlvsda,. October 1.2020 - The Hastings Bonne- SPECIAL USE, continued from page 1 Chadrick Millen Suzan Miller’s son. who i> employed by the trucking company, nbo attended lhe meeting, lour olherx an employed by the trucking Husnus'*tc Miller’> property is at the comer of North Uldriks Drive and Ferris Road. Three licensed trucks are kept on 11C property. Suzan Miller said, they also wo<- a bus for church functions and two od tankers that arc in the process of being sold or K' n'e Millers have been runninglhc l™si,,css Irem lhe property since December 2 • •This was never supposed to lie a large operation ."Suzan Miller said •‘It’s a family business. We sc done: aIo things to help out people,’’ Chadrick M> Her said. -It’s a way that God can bless the community through us.” Several residents attended the meeting to voice their opposition to the Millers’ special use request. “I've received numerous calls on Uns and, io me. it’s an eyesore." Johnstown Township Supervisor Barbara Earl said. “How did wc get a trucking business in a residential area to start with?” Lloyd Hudson asked. Hudson said he has lived on Uldriks Drive his entire life, since 1941. adding that he’s always been told. "It is not a business area. It’s residential. Them trucks have been going up and down our roads, and I know they can't be doing us any good.” Hickory Road resident Sharon Hudson shared her concerns. Hickory Road is just north of Uldriks Drive. “The roads are getting bad already. The speed of the trucks is intimidating. I have grandkids. When this first started, I wouldn't even let them cross the street.” “And what is it doing to our foundations and our property values?” she added. “It’s going down hill.” Foondle said she “completely understood where the residents were coming from." “1 totally agree with lhe residents who say this use should not be part of a rural residential area." she told the planning commission. “An acre and a half of land, and a trucking company? Come on!” Lloyd Hudson added. Following the residents speaking in opposition. Suzan Miller was given a chance to respond to some of die concerns. “This is our county,” she said. "We never try to be disruptive.” Miller said she felt that her constitutional rights should not be infringed upon in lhe situation. She added that she isn’t stopping anyone’s life, she isn’t stopping anyone’s pursuit of happiness and she isn’t hiking away anyone s liberties. “Hut. if they tell me I can't have my trucks there, they’re telling me 1 can’t have my pursuit to happiness," Miller said. Planning Commissioner Joyce Snow noted that one of lhe requirements for a contractor’s facility is to have a parking area that is either paved or dust-free. Miller said she could explore putting chemicals down to eliminate lhe dust. Snow asked Miller if she had reviewed lhe requirements listed for a contractor’s facility. "No, I haven't.” Miller said. ‘'This is just what lhe person I spoke to on the phone said I had to get.’* Commissioner Jack Nadwomik asked if the trucks returned to lhe property throughout the day. “No,” Miller said, adding that some of the tnicks are dispatched out for the week. Warren Miller mentioned that vehicle maintenance was not done on their property. Planning Commission board member Ben Geiger, who also serves a.s a county commissioner for District 5, compared the request, and how the planning commission considers it. lo the process of approving or denying a gravel pit. “Based on lhe use of the trucks, I don’t see how we can treat this any different.” he said. “As far as light mitigation, noise mitigation. I don’t see that in this application." County Plnnning/Zoning Director Jim McManus said the first step is for commissioners to decide if the trucking company is an appropriate use for the property. Suzan Miller added that the company started when the family was living in South Dakota and later moved to Michigan. “We could never expand,” she told commissioners. “There is not a land to be found, and it took quite a while to find that one.” Vice Chairman John LaForge asked lhe board to vote on the request. “You’re calling the question?” Snow and Geiger asked simultaneously. “You have to approve or deny,” Geiger pointed out. “Moving to approve.” LaForge said. “Do I have a second?" Chairman Clyde Morgan asked. The motion died for lack of support. “I move we deny,” Miner said. “I move we take a 5-minute recess,” Geiger said. “Support,” Miner said. "We have a motion to deny,” McManus pointed out. “I’m willing to recess, but I'm not willing to withdraw my motion to deny,” Miner said. “Well. we don»f h fl support, so at this point...” Morgan said Til support;- Geiper interjected. "All nght, I have motion and support for deny. Morgan said. "Now I wou|(| like to fnkc a nunute ,o recess,” Geiger said . . “Well, wc have a motion on the table, Morgan responded ;;i guess ifs up U) h chair “ Geiger said. u “All right, wc can t^e a five-minute break. Morgan said. , ,, . At that poim, both Morgan and Geiger headed toward the resins. , ,„ Nadwomik and La Force walked toward the front entryway of lhc qyden Center, while Snow, McManus and Miner remained seated. "Can we deny and saV they can come back in a month?" Snow asked. McManus told her the MiHcrs wouldn’t be able to come back with their request for a year, since entities that are denied a special­ use permit must wait one year before reluming to seek approval of a request, according to planning commission rules. c After a recess of about four minutes, the planning commissioners returned to their seats and the meeting resumed. “It feels like the consensus is not to approve this; it’s to deny Or see significant changes to the plan,” Geiger said “In looking at their site plan, I don’t really see anywhere they can put a berm in.” Miner said. 1 “Il would take a lot of work to make a plan like this fit our ordinance,” Geiger added. “It is a livelihood,” Morgan said. “I move to table the pending question 60 days,” Geiger said. “You have a motion and support already on the floor,” McManus said. “It doesn’t matter. This one supersedes it.” Geiger said. That s true,” Morgan added. “Well, Ben, we do not have a history of kicking things down the road,” Miner said. “If it s going to fail, it’s going to fail.” After additional discussion, Morgan called for a vote on Miner’s motion to deny the request. “Snow,” McManus called the first name in lhe roll call vote. "Awe. don’t ask me first.” she responded, looking at the documents before her on the table for about 15 seconds. She rubbed her forehead with her left hand as the audience watched, waiting for her vote. “Yes,” Snow muttered, ending the silence. Her vote was followed by a series of "ayes” - concluding the board’s unanimous action to deny lhe Millers’ application. Warren Miller and his son Chadrick watch as Suzan Miller pleads their case to the Barry County Planning Commission. The Millers asked for a special-use permit to continue operating their family trucking business on their property. Suzan Miller did not address the board after the vote. Instead, she turned to face the audience. “So, our friends and neighbors really don’t care about us?” she said. “We care about our neighbors - and you don’t care one bit,” Lloyd Hudson shouted. "That’s sad," Suzan Miller replied. “Can you please take this outside?” LaForge said. “This meeting is over.” “God bless you all.” Chadrick Miller said. Before leaving, Lloyd Hudson stopped, interrupted the meeting and addressed lhe board: "Can I tell you thank you?” “No," Snow replied. In other business, the planning commission: - Approved a special-use request from John Howland to operate a repair shop out of his residence in Castleton Township. - Approved farmland agreements for G & H Lecp LLC and Donald and Lisa Johnson. doubt al all that someone is trying to scam you, don’t act on it. These people can be very clever. Please don’t become a victim of their schemes.” SCAM, continued from page 1 scam that took place Friday: Both involved FedEx on-sifes al Dollar General stores: The one that was prevented in March involved an Irvine, Calif., store and lhe one on Friday involved a store in Akron, Pa. If the package gets shipped, “the fraudster stops in, picks up the package and off they go." Roderick said. The only saving grace in lhe case of last week’s scam was that lhe fraudsters had orig­ inally demanded $40,000 and the woman refused. "She only sent them $15,000." Roderick said. “I’ve got the Akron police working on that.” In the case of a legitimate business or gov­ ernment organization, "nobody anymore is going to ask for an account number over lhe phone," lhe trooper emphasized. "Whether checking, credit card or otherwise. “No one for the Social Security Administration or the IRS are going to lock your accounts or send the police with a war­ rant for your arrest." That’s not how it works, Roderick said. “No one - no one - in this day and age will ever ask for account information or discuss Social Security or IRS and unemployment over the phone," he emphasized. If there is a problem with an account, “they will make an appointment for you to come to TOWNSHIP OF CARLTON BARRYr COUNTY, MICHIGAN UA6,‘ NOTICE OF PUBUC HEARING ON THE ROLL FOR MIDDLE LAKE WEED CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 1 TO: The residents and property owners bordering Middle Like and all other inter­ ested parties. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Township Supervisor has reported to the Township Board and filed in die office of the Township Clerk for public examination a special assessment roll prepared covering all properties within the Weed Control Special Assessment District No. 1 benefited by the weed control project. Said assessment roll has been prepared for die purpose of assessing a portion of the costs for the proposed Weed Control Special Assessment District No. 1 as more particularly shown on the plans and estimates of costs on file with the Township Clerk within the township, which assessment is in the approximate amount of $105,000.00 for three seasons. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the supervisor has further reported that the assessment against each parcel of land within said district is such relative portion of the whole sum levied against all parcels of land in said district as the benefit to such parcels Ixrars to die total benefit lo all parcels of land in said district. The proposed special assessment as shown on the roll is in lhe approximate amount of $105,000.00 for the three seasons, or $35,000.00 per year ($343-14 per year per parcel) of land in the district. For further information you are invited to examine die Roll. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Board will meet at lhe Carlton Township Hall at 85 Welcome Road, Hastings, MI 49058 on Oct 12, 2020, at 7:00 pm for die purpose of reviewing said Special Assessment Roll, hearing any objections thereto, and thereafter confirming said Roll as submitted or revised or amended. Said Roll may be examined at the office of die Township Clerk at 85 Welcome Road, Hastings, Ml 49058 by appointment until the lime of said hearing and may further be examined at said hearing. Appearance and protest at this hearing is required in order to appeal lhe amount of the special assessment to the State Tax Tribunal. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that an owner, or party in interest, or his or her agent may appear in person al the hearing lo protest the Special Assessment, or may Ide his or her appearance or protest by letter at or before the hearing, and in that event, personal appearance shall not l>e required. 'Hie owner or any person having an interest in the real property who protests in person or in writing .it the hearing may file 3 written appeal ot the Special Assessment with the State Tax Tribunal within 30 days after the ('onlirmation ot the Special Assessment Roll. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Carlton Township Board will pro­ vide necessary and reasonable auxiliary aids and services to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon reasonable notice to the Carlton Township Clerk of the need for the same at least five days pnor to the aforesaid hearing Ad interested persons are invited to lx? present at the aforesaid time and place to submit comments concerning the foregoing. Amanda Brown, Clerk Carlton Township 85 Welcome Rd. Hastings, MI 49058 (269) 915-5990 their physical field office.” If a scammer calls and says a grandchild is in trouble, he advised, hang up and immedi­ ately call a trusted family member to verify it, the trooper said. “Typically, when these scammers call, they use a made-up name,” he said. "When they make up the package, it’s always to a different person than the one who’s talking to you. And the address on the package is to yet another different person.” Roderick and Larabee said they’re sure that many more are victimized who never come forward because they are embarrassed. Larabee said a scammer tried to victimize her. In this case, the caller told her that she owed money to Consumers Energy. When she asked for more information, they requested her account number. "I rattled off some numbers and the person said, ‘Yes, you owe us $3,000.”’ Larabee said she let the scammer string her along, then she finally confronted lhe caller, disclosing that she knew it was a scam. “I asked, ‘Why are you doing this? Why don't you get a job?’ And the response was: ‘Why get a job? You Americans are stupid and you give us money.’" Lirabee’s advice is, if someone receives a phone call like this where they’re asked to provide account information of any kind, question it. And don’t provide any personal informa­ tion. Roderick said he believes some of these scams prey on “the atmosphere of society right now with the chaos that contributes to it.” “I’ve had a scammer call me on my person­ al phone,” the trooper said. “He told me I owed $4300 to the IRS and they had already notified IRS and Homeland Security, and they had a warrant for my arrest." , v I can’t reach through the phone and grab him by the throat like I would likc to’ Roderick said. “Bul j advised him I was state police. "He started calling me vulgar names.” Eaton County Sheriff’s Department said a citizen contacted their office (his week to let them know of a sca .. f|,e caller claimed to be calling froin AT„T 0I1 behalf of their Direct TV bill. t-k. nske(j bow much their bill was and claimed they «’uld c,“ ,he amount in half i^v went ■» Wa‘-Mart and purchased an eBay „ift card ■" the anu’unl of $260. They then gate the their return phone number and a code number to use when they had purchased the gift eard’ K c‘tlacn was instructed i0 c.,|i the number and give them the code number at *hich ,in,c would be give,, “fare's m *nd ,hc card to. “Fortunately, th(; fact dun this was was alert to the ..nd called us. h°,idr.r8f' closer, the scant cal) m-rcase" the shenll s department advj^ 'staleJ. “If >,,u haVC a"y When ft comes to scams, here’s what to watch for Michigan State Trooper Brian Roderick said scams are often perpetrated by people who pretend to be representing lhe U.S. gov­ ernment. Here arc the ones he mentioned: IRS: Contact with a potential victim comes through email, mail, or phone calls in an attempt to gain access to an individual tax or banking information to steal their identity and money. The IRS has an 800 number lo report this fraudulent activity. Social Security: The scammers pose as benefits investigators who call and claim there is a problem with a Social Security account. At times, they will tell the potential victim that their number has been suspended and give a false phone number to call to “resolve” the issue. These calls should be reported directly to the Social Security Administration’s 800 number. Telephone Scams: Scammers may attempt to steal money and personal information through phone calls, text messages or robo­ calls. They may say an individual is getting free products or opportunities to invest their money to get even more. They may threaten jail or lawsuit if a fee isn’t paid. Charity Scams: Charity scams take advan­ tage of disasters and tragedies by pretending to be a legitimate organization in need of financial help. Call local authorities to find oul how to verify a fundraising organiza­ tion’s legitimacy. • Romance Scams: Scammers create fake profiles on dating and social media sjtes in an attempt to find someone who will send them money. Investment Scams: These scams invite potential victims to invest their money lo earn higher returns without financial risk. Then they try to get those victims to bring in more people lo do the same. Ponzi and pyra­ mid schemes are great examples of these investment scams. Roderick said it’s important for victims to reach out when they’ve been contacted by, scammers. When in doubt as fur as whnf, agency to call for help, start with local police. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED BUDGET PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on October 27, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. the Barry County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the 2021 Barry County budget during the regular Board of Commissioners meeting in the Leason Sharpe Hall, located in the Barry Community Enrichment Center, 231 S, Broadway, Hastinos Ml 49058 The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing. A copy of the proposed 2021 Budget is available for public inspection during normal business hours at the County Administrator’s office, 3rd floor, Courthouse, 220 W. State St Hastings Ml 49058, or at http://www.barrycounty.org/public' information/finance Pamela A. Palmer, County Clerk Barry County Board of _____________ Commissioners �The Hasting1; Banner — Thursday October 1. 2020 — Page 13 &•. ' ~Jb The Hastings J ANNER SPORTS SECTION Western is first 1-8 foe to down Saxon soccer team Lakewood’s Elijah Steed tries to dribble through Charlotte defenders Lance Byers and Aidan Hammons during the second half of the Vikings' 4-0 win over the visiting Orioles Monday at Lakewood High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) . Lakewood soccer off t© its best start ever The Saxons' Hunter Hays fires a throw­ in up ths sideline during his team’s win over visiting Wayland Saturday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Hastings was upended in Interstate-8 AtMetic Conference varsity boys’ soccer action for the first time this fall Tuesday night. The Parma Western Panthers unproved to 4-1-! overall this season with a 5-0 win over the visiting Saxons • Hastings falls to 4-2-2 overall this season with the less and 3-1-2 in the 1-8. Things don’t get easier on the Saxons this week. They will host the 5-1 Marshall Red Hawks this evening (Oct. 1). The Red Hawks are ranked third in the state in Division 2 behind only Gull Lake and Forest Hills Northern. Away from the conference, the Saxons scored a 3-0 win over visiting Wayland. Kirbj Beck headed in a comer kick to put the Saxons in front in the first half and then Isaac Oberlin and Xander Signeski added second half goals. Nate Flikkeina and Will Jensen each had an assist. Tommy Wickham earned the shut out in net Hastings' Xander Signeski puts his head on the ball as he is defended by Wayland's Elijah Berghoef during their non-conference match on Pierce Field in Hastings Saturday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) for the Saxons. Hastings finished in a 2-2 tie with 1-8 rival Harper Creek last Thursday. Jensen and Signeski had the two Saxon goals, with Nathan Kohmescher aiming an assist. TKHS girls fend off Sailors for second runner-up finish in Gold The South Christian girls picked up the pace, but the Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ cross country team held off the Sailors to earn a second runner-up finish at the second OK Gold Conference jamboree of the season Tuesday in Wayland. 'lhe Forest Hills Eastern girls won for the second time in two jamborees, finishing the day with 52 [joints. The Trojans w ere a distant second with 92 points. South Christian third with 98, Ottawa Hills fourth with 105 and Cedar Springs fifth with 108 points. It was the Cedar Springs girls in third at the first conference meet of the season and the South Christian girls were all the way back in sixth at that race which they hosted in early September. TK junior Jessica Durkee led her team with a seventh-place time of 20:32.70. Sophomore Emelin MacDonald was half a minute back in 21:07.38, a time good for tenth place. The Trojans had sophomore Lucy VanDemark 15th in 21:3551. Rounding out the top five for TK were sophomore Madison Nagel 30th in 22:17.82 and freshman Holly Veiling 33rd in 22:33 15 Ottawa Hills had the first three girls to fin­ ish. with Madison Ebrighl winning in 19:23.81. freshman Selma Anderson second in 19:50.61 and senior Naomi Dykstra third in 20: 03.43. Grand Rapids Catholic Central freshman Emily Tomes ran her fastest race yet to nlin> fourth in 20:13.59. 1 Vikings improve to 4-0 in GLAC with win over Perry The l-akewood Vikings are 4-0 in the Greater Lansing Activities Conference and will travel to Maple Valley Tuesday, Oct. 6, lo take on the Lions. Maple Valley’s varsity volleyball team fin­ ished as the runner-up in the GLAC behind the Viking* a year ago and arc 3-0 in confer­ ence play after scoring a win at Olivet l uesday. I he Lakewoixl varsity girls scored a 25-12, Z5 17. 25-14 win over the visiting Perry Rambler* Tuesday* “We played >omewhal slow and struggled to really get our energy going.” l-akewcxx! head co.k h Cameron Rowland said alter lhe win over the Ramblers. ‘ Wc had our best practice of the year on Monday though and have been playing better and Utter as we go.” Aubicy O’Gorman had II kill* and four bliLk'* fi’r l*,e v,k‘nt?s- Maradith O’Gorman had ten kills, nine dig* and three aces. Setter Skylar Bump had 32 assists, five aces and five digs. The Vikings also got foilr kiJ1 f Sophie Duits. 111 1 he Vikings look two wins on the road in U- GIAC week besting Sloc^d Sept. 22 and 1 .arising Christian Sept >4 lowing up on a 3-0 day Sept. 19 nt the Cadill-J. Quad where they defeated Cadillac Mount Pleasant and East Kentwood. ’ Unl The Lakewcxid ladies won by thc nf 25-13. 25-15. 25 15 hist Thursday at in, Christian. Aubrey had 12 kills. Maradith if Bump seven and Kenz.ic Wells five. ' Bump had 31 assists, three blocks and four aces. Aubrv) had lour aces as well, Duj.. . three aces and Alli Pickard two. Carley Pierccfield led the Vikings in digs with II Maradith had six. Pickard five dig* and lz/v Wheeler five. 7 Forest Hills Eastern's top two runners man­ aged to just beta oul Durkee, with sophomore Ellory Clason fifth for the Hawks in 20:2151 and sophomore Sarah Dixon sixth in 20:27.03. Forest Hills Eastern also won the boys' race Tbesday with 66 points, ahead of Cedar Springs 75. South Christian 79, Catholic Central 115. Ottawa Hills 120. Way land 152, Kenowa Hills 157 and Thomapple Kellogg 160. Cedar Springs senior Corey Bowers was the first guy across the finish line, earning a time of 16:16.41. Forest Hills Eastern senior Ben Clason was second in 16:37.10. Thornapple Kellogg freshman Lucas VanMeter picked up h*s Pace to lead the 1K boys’ team in 18:37.33. He shaved about six and a half seconds off his previous fastest time. . । । • Tile Trojan team also had junior Camden Reynolds 31st in 19:03.96, senior Brenna Lutz 33rd in 19:10.38* junior Matthew Smith 36th in 19:21.96 and senior Howie Frizzell 42nd in 19:41.84. Wayland placed si'1” l,Us 6 me around with 143 points, ahead of Grand Rapids Catholic Central 155 and Kenowa Hills 17|. Lakewood sophomore forward Colby Carter pushes through the center of the Charlotte defense with the ball during his team s 4-0 win over the visiting Orioles Monday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Sports Editor Never before have the Lakewood boys been 8-0. They were hoping lo make it 9-0 last night. 'l he Lakewood varsity boys’ soccer team kept its record spotless with a 4-0 win over visiting Charlotte in a non-conference match at Lakewood High School Monday, scoring three times in a light rain in the second half to pull away from the Orioles. Gerrvtl Feighan, Brody Jackson, Joel Apsey and Caleb Fletcher scored the four Lake wood goals and goalkeeper Ben Scobey thwarted an Oriole PK which would have lied the bail­ game at I -1 early in lhe second half. The Vikings were scheduled lo play host to lhe defending Greater Lansing Activities Conference champions from Lansing Christian Wednesday (Sept. 30) in a battle for the league lead. The Vikings are were 3-0 in lhe conference and lhe Pilgrims 4-0 in lhe league heading into the match-up. “We re excited. We’re 8-0 and that has never been done here,” said Lakewood head coach James LeVeque after the win. “The guys are excited and a little bit cocky at this point. Wc have not had a real close game yet cither. Wc have won every game by at least two goals, and most of them three or four There is just a little bit of cockiness going on and we have to get back to the nitty gritty.” Lakewood’s lead was only 1-0 at the half Monday, despite controlling much of the pos­ session. Feighn scored the Vikings’ first half goal, off an assist by Fletcher. Charlotte earned a corner kick 3:15 into the second half, with the Orioles picking up the pressure throughout the early portion of the second half. Scobey was the one whistled for the foul himself in the box but made up for the foul by sliding down to his left to block the penally kick by Charlotte's Ryan Hoesli. “Wc had a few more chances, and finished a couple more chances (in the second half). Overall u was a bit of a sloppy game. We’re struggling a little bit with our touches and we’re struggling with our focus a little bit 1 think right now.” LeVeque said. Uikewood had a few shots fly wide of die mark early in the second half, but finally pushed its lead to 2-0 with 22:54 to play on a. hard low shot by Jackson. Apsey and Fletcher scored in the final ten* minutes lo extend their team’s lead. Apsey, finally got a good food on a ball that bounded, around in a scrum in front of thc Oriole net to score his goal. Fletcher skipped a shot in off the left post from about 25 yards out to con­ clude lhe scoring. , , Rain in lhe second half did make good touches a little more difficult Lakewood knocked off Grand River ftep in a non-conference ballgame 2-0 ast -n ay. Their last GLAC ballgame was a 3-1 victo­ ry over Olivet last Wednesday lhe Vktngs look a 2-0 lead with a pair of goals early tn the second half, and then held on to improve their GLAC record to 3-0. TK ladies third in Gold heading into Friday’s conference golf tournament -- Eastern knocked v—... . off South Forest HilH Christian for the t«P sP°l at the ()K Gold Conference jambo^c hosted b> Catholic Central at Quail Ri«8c .,aM Hiutxlay. That seventh league jamboree of the season was the fust time । u‘ south Christian girls have not finished infirM lhix fall. The Hawks put <°ret K’r a SC4>re <)( 178 lo best South Christi*11 18\ Gr;uuj Catholic Central 187. Thomapple Kellogg 196. Wayland 200, Cedar Springs 224 and Kenowa Hills 246. The Thomapple Kellogg girls head into this l iiday s OK Gold Conference Championship al LE. Kaufman in Grand Rapids in third place in the overall conference standing* behind lhe Sailors and Hawks. Maleah Bailey led the Trojans Thursday with a 47 and Addie Satterfield fired her best round of the conference season, a 49.1K also got a 50 from Lane Kaminski and a 52 from Maddic Coe. Forest Hills Eastern’* Hailey Curry was lhe da) ’s medalist, shooting a 38. South Christian got a 44 from Kate Hockwater and a 45 from Ashley Thomasnui. Catholic Central was led. , ....• .. ionjec\ 44. by Ella RoMomw �Faprf 14 — Thvr-jday. October 1. 2020 — Tire Hastings Banner Pape Birdie on 18 gets Honsowitz into third at 1-8 tourney —---------------------------------- i------- Brett Bremer Sports Editor Senior Rylee Honsowitz tied for third indi­ vidually with an 86 as thc Hastings varsity girls’ golt loam competed in the Interstate-8 Aihletic Conference Tournament Thursday ar Bedford Valley Golf Club. l he Hastings girls placed fifth on thc day and fourth in the overall conference standings this season. Josie Nickels scored a 110 for Hastings and \shland Hoyt and Skylcr Grego also contrib­ uted to the team score. Hoyt fired a 130 and Grego a 148. Haipcr Creek placed second Thursday with . a score of 391, good enough lo clinch lhe , conference championship. Lauren Reed led the Beavers with an 80. earning medalist hon­ or* at thc championship. The Jackson Lumen Christi girls won lhe tournament with a score of 385. Coldwater was third with a score of 397, ahead of Parma Western 474 and Hastings 474. Western edged the Saxons on a fifth-score tiebreaker. Syd Redovich led Western with an 82 to place second individually. Honsowitz and Coldwater's Taylor Musselman were tied with S6s and Coldwater also got an 87 from Anissa Stevens. Honsowitz rolled in about a 20-foot pull for birdie on the par-4 number 18 Thursday to close out her day on a high note. She also birdied number seven. She said it was an okay round. Her lee shots were good for the most part, but her putting wasn’t on point for much of the day. An individual stale qualifier a year ago. Honsowitz is working to qualify for the state finals again this fall. Thc Saxons will be at Diamond Springs for their Division 3 Regional Tournament hosted by Hamilton. Honsowitz has never played the course, but said her team Hastings senior Rylee Honsowitz blasts her ball from the edge of the fairway on number 13 at Bedford Valley Golf Club during the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference Championship Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) was hoping to get a practice round in this week. She said her goals during the practice round will be "to figure out the lay-out of the course, the speeds of greens, where to hit tee shots and what not, stuff like that, how to play the course smartly.” “I’m hoping to make it to states, but I don’t know, but there are only two teams and two individuals instead of three and three [this year]. We’ll see. It all depends on how I play in one round.” Honsowitz earned all-conference honors this fall. Teammates Reese Warner and Valeria Arias, who were unable to compete Thursday, were named honorable mention all-confer­ ence. The Saxons returned to action Tuesday afternoon at The Legacy at Hastings for a non-conference dual against the Olivet Eagles. Hastings bested the Eagles 224 to 235. Honsowitz scored a 42 and Nickels a 55. Hastings' Ashland Hoyt fires her ball up towards the green on number 11 Thursday during the I-8 Championship Tournament at Bedford Valley Golf Club. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Saxons’ Josey Nickels hits a putt towards the flag on number six during her team's non-conference dual with Olivet Tuesday at The Legacy at Hastings. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Melia McCausey and Anna English also added lo lhe Saxon team score. Abby Williams led Olivet with a 54. Panthers improving as the}/ settle into new roles Brett Bremer Sports Editor Senior Mackenzie Hull asked Dcllon Kellogg varsity volleyball coach Erin Thornton how she could be a better player at the end of her junior season. Delton Kellogg senior setter Lexi Blain puts a pass up during her team’s loss to visiting Martin Thursday at Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Delton Kellogg senior Mackenzie Hull hits an attack by the block of Constantine’s Riley Smith during their SAC match-up Tuesday at Delton Kellogg High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Thornton’s big tip was for Hull to work on her vertical jump. A few months of work away from lhe court is paying oft. Hull had some of the Panthers best swings at lhe net, playing on the left side, in lhe Panthers’ Southwestern Athletic Conference match-up with visiting Constantine Tuesday. ”1 am very happy with her.” Thornton said. “She is bringing the heat when she can get on top of the ball. She has been working a lot at getting her vertical jump, staying on top of the ball and not getting under it. She has been doing a phenomena? job just getting there." The Panthers didn’t quite have enough to fend off the Falcons Tuesday, falling in three sets 25-14,25-18,25-17. ., “That was all right. That was better." Thornton said of her team’s performance. “We’re getting to work better as a team now. Martin runs PR as Panthers place third ’lhe Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ cross country team placed third in the eight-team Gainey Division race at the Cougar/Falcon Invite at the Eagles Nest in Grand Rapids Saturday. Panther sophomore Micah Martin ran the fastest race as a varsity runner, placing 17th individually in 19 minutes 34 seconds. He was lhe third Delton Kellogg guy across die finish line Saturday morning on the flat fast course at the Gainey Athletic Complex. Senior Micah Ordway was eighth individu­ ally to lead lhe Panthers wilh a time of 1*8:12.7. Sophomore teammate Hector Jimenez placed tenth in 18:32.7. Rounding out the lop five for the Panthers was a pair of runners who each put up new season be*! times, junior Austin Blocker and freshman Isaac Shepard. Blocker placed 20th in 20:04 3 and Shepard 36th in 21:58.4. McBain, led by individual champ Connor Ensing was third in 20*58.9. Sacred Heart had Murphy (16:45.9). won the Gainey Division runners place founh sixth andI seventh. boys’ race with just 35 points. Ml. Pleasant led by junior Delaney Sctilly>st,nie° • Sacred Heart was second with 74 points, but the team's ftfth'nintter was back tn -5th ahead of Delton Kellogg 88, Potter’s House place. Christian 96, Grand Rapids Track Club 117, Grand Rilpid _ k club junior Jana Fennville 129, Grand Rapids Catholic Central StifHer was in 20:35.0. Stiffler's Perig™. Iced third.«>th 82 *2' 178 and Grand Rapids Christian *4’ 180. . . points, ahead oRJmm/lUpi* _3, Sacred Heart had two guys place in lhe lop four with Brock Lynch the runner-up in^ 84, Potters’ House Chnsl*an WCSl 16:49.2 and senior Matthew Nowak fourth in. Catholic ‘2’ 16? an.|UpHnnvilIe l6^* , 17.10 7 PniirrC -------- The Delton vj. " team didn’t have 17:10.7. Potters’ itn.iM. House Chrkii™ Christian sophomore Ixzawc Osterink was third in 17:02.2. A total enough runners fin duo earn a team score. of six guys finished the course in fewer than Sophomore Joe«e White led >'ie Pi"‘ W“h a 34th-plaee tlme™%.?) 9. 18 minutes. 2 47jn,|I 'e McGain also beat out Sacred Heart for the Brea Chandler p)acL't7th girls’ championship on the day, 33-46. Panthersa„dl also’1fX,^5ht-31:52. h-«i v K«P,c>n 4 )11 4 ,n. . 27:2g.! McBain had five girls finish in the lop JI, X «:•*"> Satu.day.nn led by senior Maggie O'Malley who won the‘ race in 20:01.11. Her junior teammate Reese quad at Gobles. Delton Kellogg libero Josie Lyons passes the ball as teammate Mackenzie Hull looks on during their team’s SAC contest with visiting Constantine Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) It is still obviously early in the season, but these girls have been together for months now. outside. We’re just getting them to focus on being a leam. working together and talking." It hasn’t been easy. The Panthers have dealt with some injuries, some illness and some absences. Delton Kellogg didn’t have senior middle Lizzy Fichtner and junior Emma Kokx on thc court Tuesday. The hitters were working to gel used to junior setter Caitlin McManus running the offense wilh senior Lcxi Blain taking over other duties on lhe court. Thornton said getting junior middle Mary Whitmore and sophomore Lilly Ferris up to speed al the net at the varsity level is going to be key to success as the season progresses. “We have to get them all the way lo the outside [to block]," Thornton said.‘Timing is everything. That is really our focus. They did a lot better tonight than in previous matches." "You’ve got a junior and a sophomore out there try ing to get it done. Il is just a different speed than they’re used to." The Panthers also fell 20-25,25-20,25-16, 27-25 to visiting Martin in a SAC match-up last Thursday in Delton. Delton Kellogg’s girls will be at Marshall Saturday and then go on the road for a dual with Parchment Tuesday (Oct. 6). Lions beat Olivet in four sets to get to 3-0 in GLAC It is Maple Valley and Lakewood playing for lhe Greater lumsing Activities Conference volleyball lead once again this fall. Thc Vikings are 4-0 after a win over visit­ ing Perry Tuesday and the Maple Valley girls moved their conference mark to 3-0 with a victory al Olivet Tuesday evening. The two teams are set to meet up Tuesday at Maple Valley High School. Lakewood, the 2019 Division 2 State Runner-up. enters lhe contest ranked second in the state in Division 2 once again. Olivet look thc Erst set of its match with thc Maple Valley girls Tuesday. 25-21, but the Lions rallied to win lhe final three close sets 25-21,25-20,25-22. Keilyn Carpenter had 21 kills and Ashlyn Wilkes nine to lead the Lion attack. Irista Medina pm up 24 assists in the lour sets. Wilkes had a team-high three aces. Lion libe­ ro Olivia Roush had a team-high 22 digs, with lx*xi Booher adding nine and Wilkes and Medina eight each. Lydia Schill/ had two solo blocks tor the Lions. Maple Valley scored two wins over Union City last Thursday, taking on the Chargers twice because Michigan Center was unable to attend lhe planned tri, The Lions won both match-ups after falling in lhe first set of lhe night, 23-25,25-9,15-12 and 25-12,25-16. Carpenter had 27 kills and nine aces in the two matches. Roush led lhe leam in digs wilh 24 and added seven aces. Wilkes chipped in 14 kills and two blocks. Medina managed 37 assist*. Maple Valley was back in action Saturday at lhe Stockbridge Quad, scoring a 25 19, 25-20 win over Stockbridge, a 25-21, 25-21 win over Homer and a 25-17,25-21 win over Dansville. Caqienter had 42 kills on the day and Wilkes 22. Medina had 141 assists and four blocks. Roush had a team-high 44 digs, Carpenter 22 and Medina 17. The Lions have one more tune-up before taking on Lakewood, traveling to the Springport Tri Saturday. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. October 1,2020 — Page 15 Trio of top io finishers lead TOWNSIIiroF JOHNSTOWN COVMY Of HARRY. MICHIGAN Hastings ladies to invite title lhe Hastings Ix-iii (vut I ibertas and the 1 lasting. leant scored a rm/. JumorCarV. St Melon win, 43.1 >e.on<l. race. wi"h P, han ,ol!'l"d Saturday, - ™ c‘c<' ‘d.o. •"'""O> e<,l,K’Saxon, to the "nir i'!’ '"’’O of 20 minute. "’p ,c" al ,hc Rounding om the top five for the Savon fo.oen.di 15 , Fji"l"r"annah «'™ier21M in VinT'l'nhnrY un.un ‘inmate Adrianne nll ie w h '* ?S nf U behind C,ozier in place with a nnie of 26:29.9. llle seventh \CIr»h^''il^r,?'sh'i,'c'va'jui,iori)i,nnah :!'? !“".h5r ntw Of the season to place 24th in 27:57.6. sirk ooiscored 1 ilx-rta. Christian 46-50 ar th, -.ie top of the standings. Morley-Stanwood .... , r. , „ was ’bird with 59 points and Grand Rapids Chariots of Fire Homeschool placed fourth with 60 points. . lorley-Stanwcxxl freshman Miranda McNeil individuaI champion, finishing in 20:06,2. '1 he Chariots of I ire ream had senior Anna Kort? third in 20:57 9 and junior Maine Noonan fourth in 21:13.6 The first three finishers in the boys* race were Chariots ot Fire runners and their team look the day’s championship with just 26 points. Hastings was second with 52 points, ahead of I.ibcrtas Christian 58 and MorleyStanw ood X1. Each of the first four finishers in the race had their fastest varsity race ever. The Saxon team was led by Caleb I aBne, who placed fourth in 18:06.8. laiBoc was the first of three Saxon fresh­ men to run their fastest race of the fall. Riley Shults placed seventh in 18:52.4 and his classmate Jonah Teed was tenth in 19:03.3. The Saxon team also had senior Claten Patten 16th in 20:215 and sophomore Sam Pattok 23rd in 22:10.0. Pattok ran his fastest race of the season for the Saxons, and so did sophomore Alexander Steward who was 29th overall in 28:59.6. Chariots of Fire sophomore Jack Sehippcr was the individual champion with a time of 17:28.6. with teammate Zak Grabill second in 17:42.9 and Justice Shaffer third in 17:45.0. The Saxons are scheduled to run again Saturday at the Lakewood Invitational. Lowell’s hills don’t keep Valley freshman from fastest time yet The hilly course around Lowell High School is not a place for personal records. Lilly Faurot learned a little about what she is capable of Saturday though. The Maple Valley freshman was the only varsity girl top run her fastest race ever Saturday at the Red Arrows’ Bob Pern Memorial Invitational. She placed 26th individually with a lime of 24 minutes 14.60 seconds. “’1 he girls had really good races despite the difficulty of the course.” Maple Valley head coach Tiffany Blakely said. “Freshman Lilly Faurot ran a new personal best time and really Ux^k off for a strong first mile split. She was worried that she went out too fast, then real­ ized that wa> what she needed to do to run a faster time.” Lion ireshman Nadia Martin was only a little off a personal best time, placing 40th in 26:383. “Martin was only a little off of a personal best time which is great due to the degree of difficulty of the course.” Blakely said. "I see both her and Faurot gaining uxue experience high io self confidence irnnci^acmg.’ The Lion team also had Alyson Gusey 51 st in 38:06.3. Otsego dominated the day’s competition. The*.first five girls across the finish line were Bulldogs and Otsego had seven runners in the top eight and an eighth girl place 12th. The Bulldogs had a perfect 15 points to win the Championship. Their team w as led by a pair of freshmen. Megan Germain who won the race in 20:42.30 and Logan Brazee who was the runner-up in 20:46.(X). The Otsego team also had Claudia Stachura and Elizabeth Burrill finish in less than 21 minutes. ‘file only other team represented in the top eight finishers was Lowell which was led by sophomore Annika Sandman’s sixth-place time of 21:20.30. The Lowell girls finished as the runner-up with 74 points, ahead of Harper Creek 78, Kalamazoo Central 96 and Hamilton 117. The Maple Valley boys’ team had two guys competing Saturday. Senior Curtis Walker placed 46th in 21:02.60 and sophomore Adam Blakely was 62nd in 29:08.10. “The boys race was incredibly competi­ tive,” coach Blakely said. “Senior Curtis Walker really worked hard in the hills of the course to be just shy of a course best time. Sophomore Adam Blakely had a little harder time having to run most of the race on his ow n and tried to hang on to keep his mile splits even, but said the last large hill really did him in. “It was great to see them both really listcn|;W widv• ud’VMr meats they ineeded to make to smooth out their runs.” Otsego senior Colin Mulder ran away with the individual title Saturday, winning in 16:34.90. Harper Creek junior Josh Maurer was the runner-up with a time of 17:08.10. Mulder’s Bulldogs won the team title too, with 29 points. Lowell was second with 53. ahead of Kalamazoo Central 78.1 larper Creek 101. Coldwater 139. Hamilton 142. Holland Black River 174 and Grand River Prep 254. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING AND FILING OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ROLL MILL LAKE AQUATIC WEED AND PLANT CONTROL |s SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 1 its inten'Y 01 Vlfx lhal *hc Township Hoard of the Township of Johnstown. Harry County. Michigan, having rcS<>' applicutioj H>n 10 Prt,cccd on petitions filed with the Township to make certain public improvements consisting of cements’’11 ^^biudc treatments for the eradication or control of aquatic weeds and plants in Mill Lake (the ^^ving descrih ^owns^*P’ I,11S made its final determination of a special assessment district which consists of the folk"' ed j0|s un(| parcejs of jand which are benefitted by the Improvements and against which all or a portion ol the e e improvements shall be .specially assessed: Mill l'a * lUatic Weed and Plant Control Special Assessment District No. I Lots and Parcels Numbered: 09-010019-00 09-040-020-00 09-040-036-00 09.040-038-00 09-040-U39-00 O9-183-tX)8-oo 09-021-003-00 09 040-033-00 09-021-001-qo 09-lfb-OOl-OO 09-040-03l-oo 09-040-070-00 09-125-007-00 09-125-022-00 09-040-007-00 09-021-028-00 09-040-060-00 09-040-018-(X) 09-040-040-00 09-040-0-11-00 09-085-006-00 09-040-081-00 09-185-003-00 09-185 004-00 09-185-002-10 09-125-021-00 09-040-057-00 09-040-083-00 09-040-046-00 09-040-047-00 09-021-005-00 09-040-069-00 09-185-005-00 09-040-056-00 09-040-034-00 09-125-003-00 09-125-004-00 09-040-063-00 09-040-054-00 09-040-062-00 09-185-006-00 09-040-009-00 09-125-020-00 09-040-015-00 09-125-011-00 09-040-074-00 09-040-075 00 09-125-001-00 09-125-002-00 09-040-048-00 09-040-061-00 09-040-011-00 09-040-043-00 09-021-006-00 09-040-076-00 09-040-073-00 09-040-050-00 09-040-004-00 09-040-006-00 09-040-051-00 09-040-044-00 09-125-010-00 09-085-003-00 09-185-001-10 09-185-002-00 09-125-006-00 09-085-001-00 09-021-004-00 09-021-026-00 09-021-027-00 09-085-007-00 09-040-028-00 09-040-055-00 09-040-080-00 09-085-002-00 09-021-029-00 09-040-005-00 09-125-008-00 09-125-023-00 09-125-024-00 09-040-027-00 09-125-018-00 09-125-014-00 09-125-015-00 09-125-016-00 09-125-016-01 09-040-001-10 09-125-005-00 09-125-025-00 09-125-012-00 09-040-072-00 09-125-017-00 09 125-009-00 09-040-042-00 09-040-071 00 09-085-005-00 09-040-003-00 09-021-007-00 09-040-052-00 09-125-019-00 09-040-058 00 09-040-077-00 09-040-078-00 09-040-053-00 09-123-026-00 09-185-007-00 09-021-002-00 09-040-082-00 09-040-012-00 09-040-067-00 09-040-023-00 09-040-029-00 09-040-049-00 09-040-059-00 Schools may begin exploring updates to spectator policies according to MHSAA The Michigan High School Athletic Association updated its guidelines for the number of spectators that schools may allow at high school sporting events Wednesday afternoon and shared that information with member schools. Michigan Executive Order 2020-183 takes effect Friday. Oct. 9. and allows increased gathering numbers for indoor and outdoor events in all regions of the state. Social distancing must still be followed at all times for everyone except athletes involved in active participation during the contest. There is no change to the face covering requirements under executive order 2020-153 (for all non-athlctes) and executive order 2020-180 (for all athletes). “For regular season events, schools may have more restrictive local policies,” the MHSAA statement concludes in the end. If an outdoor event is not in a fixed outdoor sealing venue (cross country, golf, soccer field with no permanent/fixed seating), a site must maintain no more than 30 spectators per 1.000 square feet of the facility, up to a maximum of 1 ,(XX) spectators. “We realize this will be challenging to enforce in cross country and golf in particular given the massive expanse of many cross country and golf courses.” the MHSAA release to schools states. “In these cases, use every opportunity possible to announce and remind all involved to keep social distancing at all times.” If an ind<x>r event is in a fixed indoor seat­ ing venue (gymnasium or pool). 20% of scat- ing capacity is allowed for up to 500 specta­ tors (25% in Regions 6 and 8). If a gymnasi­ um seats 2500 or more, the school would be able to sell 500 spectator tickets. If a gymna­ sium seats less than 2500, take 20% (or 25% in Regions 6 and 8) of the maximum capacity to determine the number of allowed specta­ tors. * If an outdoor event is in a fixed outdoor seating venue (football or soccer stadium) 30% of seating capacity is allowed for up to 1.000 spectators. If a stadium seats 3333 or more, a school would be able to self 1 000 spectator tickets. If the stadium seats less than 3333. take 30% of the maximum mating capacity to determine the number of allowed spectators. When spectator tickets are sold in advance the availability of those tickets must be divid ed on a 50-50 basis between the home and visiting school. If remaining tickets are sold it the gate, they may be available on •» firS come, first-serve basis. If tickets are not sold m advance, spectators are admitted on a first cmne first-serve basis. All persons admitted with a school, league or conference pass fo regular season contests must be included the spectator limits. u ,n This new order eliminates the need for lk. MHSAA definition of ’‘participant” as nt dance is no longer connected to the number participants. Ux?al schools can now det • ’ participant groups to be included with season contests such ns players, cheer! f dance teams, pompon squads and bands See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city limits Boundary of Mill Lake Aquatic and Plant Controlspecial Assessment District NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN THAT the Township Supervisor of the Township of Johnstown has made and certified a special assessment roll for the special assessment district, which roll sets forth the relative portion of the cost of said improvements which is to be levied in the form of a special assessment against each benefitted lot and parcelI of land in the special assessment district. Pursuant to the resolution of the Township Board adopted on September 9, -02 , the costs of the Improvements are to l>e periodically re-determined on a yearly basis in accordance with the resolution. TAKE TI Iat thE TOWNS! UP BOARD OF THE TOWNSHIP OF JOI INSTOWN WILL HOLD Ai PUB­ LIC HEARING AT A REGULAR MEETING OF THE TOWNSHIP BOARD TO BE HELD ON WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER IJ. 2020, AT 7:00 P.M., OR SHORTLY THEREAFTER, AT THE TOWNSHIP HALL. 13641 S M-37 IIIGHWA^BATTLE CREEK, MICHIGAN, IN SAID TOWNSHIP, TO REVIEW THE SPEC IAL ASSESSMENT ROLL ANH ro HEAR AND CONSIDER ANY OBJECTIONS THERETO. TAKE FL’R n IER NOTICE that the special assessment roll as prepared has been reported to the Township Board and is on fiic ",l 1 t*le ^°"nship Clerk at the Township I lall for public examination. taki:fW hfr notice that an owner or a party in interest in a lot or parcel ot land SUUJl lT_>O A SPECIAL ASSESSMENT MAY PILE A WRITTEN APPEAL OF \Tlo3 WITH KKJAN TAX TRIBUNAL WITHIN Tl I1RTY (30) DAYS AFTER r,^*’^, ,2rr^sT APPEARS OF THf-S* *1AL ASSESSMENT ROLL, BUT ONLY IF SAID OWNER OR PARTY IN INTEREST APPEARS AND PR<)T,;M S Hie SPECIAL ASSESSMENT AT THIS HEARING. An appearance may be m o*ner or party in ,n cr«st, Or 0(. |R.r agCnfJ jn person or, in the alternative, an appearance or pro es v c Township letter prior to the hearing, in which case a personal appearance at the hearing is not requir d. This Noticc was authorized by the Township Board of the Township of Johnstown. Dated: September 9, 2()2() Sheri Babcock, Clerk Tow nship of Johnslow n �Pnpo 16 - Thursday, October t, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Saxons beat Titans for the first time ever ST ■ • Maple Valley defensive lineman Reece Proctor-Buihans drags down Gob'es quarterback Kevin Heard during the Lions’ win over , the visiting Tigers a! Maple Valley High School Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) J Brett Bremer Sports Editor • It w as the best of times for a few of the area varsity football teams last Friday. , The Hastings varsity football team over­ , came a 130 deficit to beat perennial stale •power Jackson Lumen Christi 14-13 in • Jackson, the Saxons first win in six tries • against the Titans all-time. • The Maple Valley varsity 8-player football J team and the Delton Kellogg varsity football ’ team also each scored their first win of the • scuson Frida) night. With the Panthers routing Southwestern Athletic Conference foe Galesburg-Augusta and the Lions defeating former SAC member Gobles. The Lions also got some good news Friday that they’ll get the chance to play some post season football for the first time since m<n mg ble to compete for a state championship but the) will gel to take pan in a tournament ’hat includes the six teams that ha\c school enroll­ ments too large for them lo participate in the MHSAA’s regular postseason tournaments. Thornapple Kellogg is the lune Bair) • Maple Valley’s Hunter Bassett breaks up a pass intended for Gobles' Alexander •'•Doolittle during the Lions' win over the Tigers at Maple Valley High School Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) MAKE AN INFORMED CHOICE TURN TO NEWSPAPERS FOR B5 | County (cam without a win yet this fall. The Trojans have had a brutal first two games facing Cedar Springs and Grand Rapids Catholic Central on the road.TK finally gets to take the turf al Bob White Stadium in Middleville for the first time this season as it plays host to 0-2 Wayland. The Wildcats last scored a victory in September of 2018. Hastings will try to carry some momentum from its win over the Titans into this Friday’s match-up with Pennfieldinside Baum Stadium at Johnson Field in Hastings. Pennfield is also I I after being edged by a touchdown by Parma Western last week. The Interstate-8 Athletic Conference lost its first varsity football contest to COV ID-19 last week as Jackson Northwest was forced to cancel its contest with Harper Creek. The Beaters found an opponent betorc the Week­ end. Livonia Clarcnceville. and managed to score a 36-12 victor) for their first win of the season. The Vikings head into their home game against Stockbridge Friday night hx>leinpMo avenge a two-point loss io the Panthers a year ago. Both teams are 1-1 overall this season, but the Vikings remain one of two teams yet to suffer a conference defeat in the Greater Lansing Activities Conference. The Vikings are 1-0 in the league behind 2-0 Olivet, luikewood’s revamped offense will have a change to put up some points Friday against the Panthers who have given up an average of 30.5 points per game so far. Delton Kellogg goes to Lawton Friday night for a SAC Valley contest against the undefeated Blue Devils who beat up on Niles Brandywine and Fennville in the first two weeks of the season. Lawton junior running back Jake Rueff has rushed for seven touch­ downs already this season and eclipsed the 200-yard mark in his team’s win over Niles Brandywine last week. Maple Valley has a lough task ahead as it tries to build playoff points for seeding in its postseason tournament. The Lions go on the road to face a 2-0 Martin team that has been in the playoffs in each of the past two seasons (11 -player in 2018 and 8-player in 2019). The Clippers beat up on Tri-Unity Christian and Bridgman to open the year, outscoring their two opponents 99-32. The Lions and Clippers met up for the first time last fall, with the Martin team scoring a 42-20 win. Local Standings (W-L, playoff points) Hastings i-1 (i9.000) Lakewood pi (16500) Delton Kellogg |.j (15.000) Maple Valley (8-player) I-1 (U-OW) 1 hornapple Kellogg 0-2 (4.500) Conference Standings (overall, conference) Interstate 8 Athletic Conference Coldwater ........ * 2-0,2-0 Parma Western 2-0,2-0 Hastings Lumen Christi Pennfield Harper Creek Ll.0-1 Northwest 0-1,0-1 Marshall 0-2,0-2 Gold Conference cXCs'b0,k 14). 2-0 Cedar Springs South Christian 14). 2-0 Forest Hills Eastern Kenowa Hills 1-1. Ottawa Hills 0-2.0-2 0-2.0-2 0-2.0-2 IU'>• Valley wSsr*** Delton KellogLaw ion Saugatuck 'gusta newspapers deliver what matters America's"^ Newspapers >4). 1'0 1-1.10 ->.0.0 11 7-i. o-i 0-2.0-1 f i-0.2-0 I 1.1 0 Lakcwtxxi Leslie -Stockbridge 1-1.0-1 0 2,0-2 rusMhaestowaal^1hnnin91 ^ck Hugh®s,°n Heckathorn carries a Gobles tackler as he usnes towards the goal-line during the Lions win Friday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Here is a round-up of last week's local grid­ iron action. Hastings 14. Jackson Lumen Christi 13 1 he Saxons finally topped the Titans Friday. Hastings varsity football team scored its first ever victory over Jackson Lumen Christi by a score of 14-13 Friday night in Jackson. Tlic Saxons scored the only points of the second half to dig out of a 134) hole and earn the one-point victor)'. Hastings went for the win following Keegan Olson’s 24-yard touchdown run with 79 sec­ onds to play in the fourth quarter Friday. Dan Harp ran in the two-point try to give the Saxons the lead. Corbin Ulrich dashed the Titans’ hopes of a hail Mary in the final minute by intercepting the first pass of their ensuing drive. Lumen Christi scored two touchdowns in the second quarter, including one on an 85-yard runjo build a 13-0 halftime lead. "Hastings tobl/TKe* se?’onirTinirnomjTT.which TJ Russell relumed 19 yards lo the Titans’ 43-yard line, and then went 43 yards on nine plays to the end zone. Mason Denton tossed a 16-yard touchdown pass to Kaidcn Shumway for their team's first points of the evening. Shumway’s extra-point kick was no good, leaving the Saxons down 13-6. The score stayed that way for the final 8:42 of the third quarter and the first 10:41 of the fourth quarter. Lumen Christi only had two offensive pos­ sessions in the second half before the Saxons took the lead and the Saxon defense forced a punt both times. Ulrich had a big play on the Titans' third quarter possession too, a sack which pushed the Titans back after they d driven as deep as the Saxon 37-yard-line. Both teams were just shy of 300 yards of total offense. Harp led the Saxon attack, rushing 15 times for 97 yards. Russell had 16 rushes for 87 yards and Olson ran 13 times for 64 yards. Denton was 2-of-5 passing for 37 yards. Robby Slaughter led the Saxon defense with 85 tackles and Ulrich had 8. Evan Eastman contributed 7.5 tackles. Ulrich, Eastman. Russell and Kyler Madden each had a sack. The Saxons were 0-5 all-time against the Titans coming into the night, with the Lumen Christi team scoring a 31-0 win in 1975 and then winning the two program’s four Interstate-8 Athletic Conference match-ups the last four years by an axerage of 26 points. Delton Kellogg 46, Galesburg-Augusta 6 The first bounce went lo the Rams, but the rest of them went the Panthers’ way Friday night. The Galesburg-Augusta varsity football team recovered an on-side kick and marched down to the Delton Kellogg goal-line before a fourth-and-goal pass fell incomplete. The Panthers took over on downs and soon run­ ning back Bradley Bunch was busting through the middle for a 78-yard touchdown. Bunch also picked off a tipped pass al the goal-line to prevent a Ram score in the second quarter, and the Panthers benefitted from three other Galesburg-Augusta turnovers. The Panthers went on to a 46-6 victory over the host Rams to oj>en play in the Southwestern Athletic Conference Valley Division. I he Rams did march back down the field on their second drive of the game as well tying up the ballgame at 6 6. but G found an answer to the Panthers' Wing-T attack. Vincent Quick put the Panthers back in front 12 6 with a four yard touchdown run early in the second quarter and the route was on. Quick added a six-yard touchdown run after the Delton Kellogg defense got a stop. Bunch’s interception ended the next Galesburg. Augusta scoring threat, I he first drive of the second half lor the Rams was thwarted on its first play, an interception by the Panthers’ Ricky Ramsey. Delton Kellogg also recovered two Ram fumbles in the sec­ ond half. Bunch added a 32-yard touchdown run in the third quarter, a touchdown followed by a two-point pass from Belew to Cole Pape. Richard Doorlag also scored on a 30-yard run, Corey Moore scored on a 45-yand run and Philip Holcomb on an 8-yard run in the sec­ ond half for the Panthers. As a team the Panthers totaled 533 yards rushing on the evening, with Bunch carrying the ball 12 times for 202 yards. Moore had five rushes for 81 yards and Quick carried it eight time for 61 yard. Four other guys had at least 30 yards rushing for Delton Kellogg. Quarterback Pay ton Smoczynski was l-of-2 passing for 12 yards to Pape Bunch also had a team-high four solo tack­ les. Maple Valley 44, Gobles 8 "It has been a good day,’’ said Maple Valley Vttrmy ct lew • times as the stadium at Maple Valley High School cleared out Friday evening. Winning will make you feel that way. The Maple Valley varsity 8-player football team scored its first victor)’ of the season. 44-8 over visiting Gobles. The Lions putting the running clock in motion against the Tigers with a 21-yard touchdown run by senior quar­ terback Blaze Sensiba a few minuets into the second half. Sensiba rushed for two touchdowns, Hugheston Heckathorn ran for three touch­ downs, David Hosack-Frizzell added a short TD run on the opening play of the fourth quarter, and Heckathorn also teamed up with fellow defender Reese Proctor-Burhans to score a safely for the Lions in the opening quarter. “1 was really proud of how our kids responded. Last week was a week of adversity and we just did not respond well when we got down (against Whittemore-Prescott) even though we came out really well at the begin­ ning of the game last week. “Tonight you could tell we had energy. You could tell we had drive. You could tell the kids were having fun. When we are having fun. these kids really enjoy each other's company. You could see that tonight. That is what we need to do. That is how we need to play the rest of our season.” The Tigers appeared to have less and less energy as the evening wore on. The Lion lines pushed the short-handed Gobles team around. Gobles is playing its first season of 8-player football, a program which had success similar to the Lions' before some lean years. Between 1998 and 2016 the ’Ligers qualified for the state playoffs 15 times. Gobles on)) had 11 available players Friday, and al times it seemed the defense could have have used those three extra guys to help bring down Heckathorn. He rushed the bill 16 times for 124 yards. He had touch­ down runs of three, two and 33 yards. All three came in the first half, with the 33-yardcr one of the highlights of the night as he ran through tackler after tackler and eventually shrugged oft the the final Gobles defender with a strong right arm at about the 15-yard- huet . -They were getting off the ball.’’ Martin said of his linemen. "Last week we didn't get off the Kill on both sides of the ball. Tonight you could see we got oft the bail on both >ides. Dillon Jorgenson did an awesome job of not just blocking tor Hugheston. but pop­ ping those traps, catching parses out of the backfield and really had a good night. (Quarterback) Blaze (Sensiba) agin did a tre­ mendous job of leading us and making good decisions. Our offensive line really did a nice job tonight early in the game of getting oft the ball and making sure they were on their dou­ ble-teams.” Continued next page �Tlie Hastings Banner — Thursday. October 1. 2020 — Page 17 Lions and other large 8-player teams get to hold tournament Brett Bremer Inert won t be n Man* ,.k., • line, but the MHSAA / .mPl0ns,,ip on the council have riven th* . ,ts ^P^scntauvc V^UoUX* er football teams thai ” • MHSAA season tournament this year , 'l,CbM?pke,.«h’-play °Wn P°St* -0 >«’ be digiWc ro; 8-pLiy«.r Football tournament. That has left the Uons without the abili, " son ktothtdl since they joined ?h/ranks of 8-pla>ir programs !n u)c shl| d ( o. stmlent-atMetes in the .oolaU The MHSAA cutoff for the 2020-21 school year for the Division I 8-player poe.season is an enrollment figure of 215 students. Maple \alley has an enrollment number of 284 this year. Bangor, at 309 students, is the only seh.»l larger than Maple Valley competing in 8-player football this year. ,vnaple athl«ic director Landon Wilkes said he received a call last week seek­ ing the Lions input on the idea from MHSAA athletic director Mark Vyl. and Maple Valiev responded with an enthusiastic “yes” on Friday. “ft is a very definitive this is not a new division, this is not a state championship, this is the ability lo play schools our size that are doing the same thing that we arc doing,” Wilkes said. ’Dre six teams will play a tournament over the course of the three weekends following the conclusion of this fall’s six-game regular season. lhe teams will keep track of playoff points in the same way MHSAA postseason participants do, and those will seed the sixteam bracket. The top two seeds will receive byes for the opening round of the tournament, planned for the weekend of Oct. 30. The high­ est seeded team will host each match-up. “Gentlemen, wc have a great opportunity to create something special. Now, let’s get after it and finish our season on a very high note,” Maple Valley varsity football coach Marty Martin wrote to his team after the news became official. “This is a onc-year opportunity for us, which w e arc going to grab ahold of and do to the best of our ability,” Wilkes said. Many in the program hope that this is just the start, and eventually as the number of football players shrinks across the state, even at larger schools, that those schools forced into 8-player football will be given the chance to compete for playoff positions and state titles. DK soccer gets late goal to finish in tie with Colts Cameron ®PaU^Llj’halfl|<^ lbret’ n,‘n' ulesleftinthe 'C^jig ^“’"'Ivagea l-l tie Kellogg goal 25 minutes into lhe second half, off an assist from Victor Gonzalez. for the Delion K^^ 'y boys’ socctr • Hnulkooper made 16 saves in lhe loss. team in a non-con ■ eh at Comstock “stock took The Panthers w ere 2-3-2 overall this season heading into a SAC ballgame with Constantine last night (Sept. 30). in the first’ half.DKgoalkeepc ^^(Xiper didn’t let another ball b ticf-. to keep hi> team in the ballgame. finished the cvcning with 11 saves. Watervliet score • ‘ * Southwestern Athletic Conference over the Delton' Kellogg team MW'«y-n Delton. Watervliet took a 34) lead lhc fln>( h;il|. Hector Jimenez scored the |„nc ne|111IV Continued from previous page----------------------Jorgenson rushed 12 limes for 88 yards and Sensiba had 11 rushes for 45 yards. Sensiba completed 2-of-4 passes for 34 yards, with Jorgenson catching one 13-yard reception and Proctor-Burhans hauling in a 21-yard catch. Scnsiba’s pass to Proctor-Burhans put the Lions at the Tigers’ one-yard-line with a little over lour minutes to play in the opening quar­ ter and the Lion quarterback plowed into the end zone from there to finish off his team’s first offensive drive of the night. With a year of running the Lions’ offense on rhe varsity level under his belt. Sensiba is being asked to do more by the coaching staff this fall. “When we’re at the line of scrimmage he not only is calling an offensive play, but he is also calling which way we’re running it depending on how the defense aligns,” coach Martin said. “If the defense shifts and we’re still early in our count he is flipping it lo another play. Really he is making good deci­ sions. but also you have io give credit to the rest of our kids. This is the first time we’re able to think like that, where we’re able to make adjustments mid-play.” 'flie Lion head coach said offensive coordi­ nator Jeff Fisher and and Sensiba did a great job of working together in the offseason to create some symmetry in their way of think­ ing. As a team, the Lions rushed for 291 yards on the night, and outgained the Tigers 325 yards to 98. Gobles managed 81 yards on the ground and just 17 through the air, but Gobies quar­ terback Kevin Heard did have some open receivers throughout the evening but just had trouble connecting. He was just 2-of-15 pass­ ing. Heard led the Tigers on the ground with 17 rushes for 53 yards. The Lion defense got eight tackles from Jessy Deppe, who had three sacks on the night. A penalty on the kick return for the Tigers following Sensiba’s opening touchdown pushed them back near their own goal-line, and Heckathorn and Proctor-Burhans met at Heard in the backfield on the Tigers’ very next play from scrimmage - bringing him down for the safety that put the Lions up 10-0 at the lime. ft was 16-0 al the end of one quarter and 30-0 at the half. Heckathorn added two two-point runs on lhe night and Owen Bailey booted two extra­ point kicks for the Lions. The Lions are now 1-1 this season. They will be on the road at Manin Friday. Grand Rapids Catholic Central 50. Thornapple Kellogg 7 The Trojans can look forward to a game on their turf now. . Back-to-back road contests against Cedar Springs and Grand Rapids Catholic Central were a long), way to open lhe season for the Thornapple Kellogg varsity football learn. The Trojans fell to 0-2 on the season with . 50-7 loss al the home of lhe Catholic C cnlt. Cougars Friday. ,A. . • A The Cougars, the defending Division 4 Slate Champions, got three touchdown passu from quarterback Joey Sihert. score defensive touchdowns and got a pair of touch­ down runs by Nick Hollern to earn the v. • lheTrojans turned the ball -over fou Iinits ill lhe bailgame, losing four fomblies l which were returned for Cougar iouchdow w. I K’s lone score came on a seven-yard touchdown run by qua u?‘\ . .if Garbrecht with 3:20 to play bdore_ tlu half. The touchdown pulled K 1 \ ‘ ' the time after Mitchell Middleton s extra ^Centra, lacked ontwo=uchf downs in the final two minutes of the first half lo push its lead to 29-7 thoughMiddleton led lheTK o lense wilhl /rush < s for 44 yards. Dylan Jonsma ch PF»-dm three carries for 23 yards, ax ‘ . one 15-yard reception for DC on lhe lone pass attempt by Garbrecht. Ryan Holmes led thE TK defense with 6.5 tackles and Alex Bonnema had six. Silveri was 1 l-of-17 passing for 197 yards and rushed seven times for 53 yards. Hollern scored his two touchdowns while rushing nine times for 22 yards. Catholic Central receiver Jace Williams had five catches for 102 yards and two touchdowns and John Passinault hauled in three receptions for 45 yards and a touchdown for the Cougars. The 0-2 Trojans will host Wayland Union Friday. Madison Heights Bishop Foley Catholic 21, Lake wood 6 The Vikings are going to work on putting two full halves together in the week ahead. A strong start powered the Lakewood var­ sity football team to a win at Perry in week one. The Vikings finished well in week two, but didn’t do enough early on to keep pace with Madison Heights Bishop Foley Catholic in lhe first game on Unity Field at Lakewood High School this season. The Ventures bested the Lakewood varsity football team 21-6 Friday night (Sept. 25). “We put the ball on the ground a couple times. We won the turnover battle this week, but we’re not finishing our drives right now,” Lakewood head coach Matt Markwait said. “We’ve just got to finish. We’re making some mental errors. The first half we didn’t come out and play. The second half wc came out and played. Il is a totally different game at that point.” The Lakewood offense had a couple mis­ cues in the backfield. The Lakewood defense took a little too long to adapt to the Ventures’ no-huddle attack. Lake wood led the bailgame 6-0 after a three-yard touchdown run by Denny Sauers on its first drive of the ballgame, but Bishop Foley answered right back to take a 7-6 lead in the first quarter and then tacked on two more touchdowns before lhe half. An interception ended one Lakewood drive in the first half and lhe Vikings fumbled the bail away inside lhe Bishop Foley 20-yardline once early in the second half. Lakewood managed to get three take aways with Sauers intercepting two Bishop Foley passes and Garrett Stank picking off one. Lakewood quarterback Jayce Hanson was 5-of-15 passing for 62 yards and rushed nine times for 57 yards. Sauers had 11 rushes for 57 yards. Stank rushed 12 times for 48 yards and Sawyer Stoepker had nine carries for 43 yards. Nick Helt added two receptions for 44 yards for lhe Vikings and Miseal Mendez had three catches for 18 yards. While lhe rushing load was balanced among lhe backs, so were the tackles among lhe Viking defensive front. Markwart said he had a handful of guys with four or five tackles in the ballgame. Tackling was an issue for the Vikings in the first half. “They probably, in the first three quarters of the game, only ran the ball maybe four limes. 1 hey were jusl flinging it all over, run­ ning screens and running different things. Wc were playing it well. They found a mismatch and look advantage of ii on lhe first touch­ down that they had. We weren’t over the top like we were .supposed to, so they found that and got us on the first one. They were just flinging the ball around and making us chase and we were missing when we were tackling We’d hit them for losses and we’d miss them and wouldn’t lake them down and then they’d get five yard gains after the caught it. They jusl threw their little screens behind the line and made us chase all over the place and wc weren’t tackling that well.” - They had some elusive players. They had some kids that could cut and juke and do some things who were a little more athletic than the kids we played last week. That is still not an excuse for not tackling well. We can fix that, and we did. We fixed it in the second half. We shut them down in the second half.” 'Fhc Vikings will I* home again Friday to lace Greater 1 Jinsing Activities Conference foe Stockbridge, Delton Kellogg’s Joello White leaps up to get her head on the ball during her team’s SAC contest with visiting Watervliet Wednesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Deltori Kellogg’s Hector Jimenez works to settle the ball in the midfield as Watervliet’s ‘Ezequiel Alvarado gives chase during their Southwestern Athletic Conference match in Delton Wednesday (Sept. 23). (Photo by Perry Hardin) DK/TK/HHS takes title at relays by over 100 points The Delton KelloggfThomapple Kellogg/ Hastings varsity girls’ swimming and diving team was 116 points better than runner-up Unity Christian to win its annual DK/TK/ HHS Relays at the Community Education and Recreation Center in Hastings Saturday. A pair of victories in traditional relays helped power the DK/TK/HHS girls to the win. The team of Abby Marcukaitis. Sophie' Marcukaitis, Juliann Meeker and Anna Haywood won the 200-yard medley relay to open the day in 1 minute 59.34 seconds. That same foursome teamed up to win the 200-yard freestyle relay in 1:47.29. The DK/TK/HHS girls closed out lhe four- team event with 612 points. Unity Christian was.second with 496 points, ahead of Calvin Chrislian/West Catholic 448 and Wayland 418. DK/TK/HHS had a second team finish in that (op four in the first race of the day with Cadence VanOoy, Ellen Shults, Holly Carpenter and Bella Morey placing fourth in the 200^nedl(Jy relay with a time of 2:21.12. Carpenter. Haywood, Meeker and Abby Marcukaitis teamed up for a runner-up finish in, die 200-yard butterfly relay with a time of 2:00.60. Erin Daniels, Elizabeth Middleton. Shults and Sophie Marcukaitis scored a run­ ner-up time of 2:30.68 in the 200-yard breast­ stroke relay. The DK/TK/HHS program also had teams of divers earn the second and third place points in that event. DK/TK/HHS girls were third in the 800yard freestyle relay, w ith the team of Lily Foy, Middleton. VanOoy and Dalace Jousma put­ ting together a time of 10:02.00. Their team got fourth place finishes from the team of Bella Morey, Daniels, Allison Brandli and Jousma in the 500-yard freestyle relay pro­ gressive. the 200-yard freestyle relay of VanOoy, Kallie Leary, Aubrey Evans and Shults, and the 200-yard backstroke relay team of Carpenter, Morey, Foy and VanOoy. A Gawne wins first singles matches with top players from TK and South The South Christian varsity boys’ tennis team scored a 6-1 win over the visiting Lakewood Vikings Tuesday afternoon. The Vikings’ lone win came from senior first singles player Brady Gawne who bested South Christian sophomore Luke Post 6-0, 6-0. The South Christian guys won the other four contested flights, second and third sin­ gles and first and second doubles, in straight sets while getting default wins al fourth sin­ gles and third doubles. Gaw ne had the lone win for the Vikings in a 7-1 loss to Thomapple Kellogg Thursday as well, besting Jack Geukes in the first singles match. The Vikings’ top player suffered his first defeat of the season Wednesday (Sept. 23ft faiyng 7-6(1), 6-3 to Ionia’s Sam Eppler in a 7-1 team loss to the Bulldogs. Gawne had beaten Eppler in their first two meetings this season. The Viking first doubles team of Clay l;.- Dumond and Asher Teigeler scored their team’s win in the dual with Ionia, besting Collin Palmer and Brett Peterson 6-4, 1-6, (10-8) in a super tiebreaker. The second doubles match between the Vikings and Bulldogs was a good one too. with lhe Ionia duo of Ethan Rowland and Colter Clark edging Logan Tefft and Preston Weller 7-5.6-4. Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 Hastings DANNER jt^rea Locations to purchase the Hastings Banner! 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Fact Stop Gdiworthys Dowling General Store LalftKFExpress Lakt-O-Mart Lake Odessa Johnny s Carts To-.ai & Coantiv �Page 18 — Thursday, October 1, 2020 — 1 he Hast’rg > Ba Saxons rebound from five-set loss to beat Brett Bremer Aprrrs Editi* Hk Saxons g»l tlvir »!’ swings dossn .<■ the "‘I’1" s .suing S.r.'MW I Im: «fc>) I Ik'Hastings saositv xollc)l»»’t-' । l>ingu.ssi„ Hie final issosdsanera shpup . in SVl number (WO. nnrnilW Hastings scored* 25-l.< «»> ,nlhc g s Ss-t. but then fell 21 -25 in the second 11 didn l take lone to gel ibines right. . Onl) fise Saxons got to sm. tn « thin ■set as their leant took a 25-» win. text Hcrbkt had a run of nine stratght service points to -open that thild set as the Saxons kept the ball •off the iloor and better passes helped them avoid some hitting errors (hat plagued the team in the second set. Teammate Carly Warner had a string of eight straight service points for the Saxons in lhe set as well. "They weren't getting quite on top of the ball." Saxon head coach Tiffany Hendershot said of her attackers in that second set. “There were definitely less hitting errors in that third and fourth set.” The Saxons led the fourth set by as many as eight points and took a 25-20 win lo close out •the non-conference victory . Hendershot said she saw her team blocking better, cox ering each other more and show ing .improved enthusiasm in that third set. ‘The energy level was definitely way bet­ ter. They were crazy tonight,” Hendershot said. “I think coming off the loss last night they were more determined to get the win.” The Saxons fell in five sets against Jackson Lumen Christi last Wednesday (Sept. 23). • Senior libero Ella Carroll felt that surge of energy. “It was a hard loss last night, but 1 feel like we came back and though all right, we’ve got 'this one. Usually a loss doesn’t bring you up again, but 1 feel like we used that as our moti­ vation to stay up and win this one.” ”We kind of got in our own head again, and we just kind of shook it off, made some jokes and we just had fun. I feel like that is what ‘made u.s play so much better.” Carroll led lhe Saxons in passing and in aces on lhe nighl Thursday. • Herblct had a team-high six kills, with Madison Peltengill contributing five and Warner and Hannah Slaughter three each Brianna Barnes had a team-high 12 assists. “It is nice lo be back and playing again. It is nice got have the unity on this team.” Carroll said. Hastings took lhe opening set against Jackson Lumen Christi 25-IX last Wednesday , .but lhe Titans look advantage of a line-up error that coach Hendershot took responsibil­ ity for and won the second set 25-9. The Titans took set three 25-014. before lhe Saxons settled down lo gel a 25-22 w in in set .four. The Titans closed out their 1-8 w in with *a 15-11 victory in lhe fifth set. Warner had six kills to lead the Saxons and Chelsea Ertner chipped in three. Barnes and Morgan Deal led lhe Saxons in assists. Slaughter had five blocks. The Saxons’ Chelsea Ertner hits an attack against Saranac as teammates Morgan Deal and Phoebe Schantz look on during their team’s 3-1 win at Hastings High School Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hastings’ Madison Pettengill flips an attack over the net during her team's win over visiting Saranac Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Saxons were 1 -2 Tuesday at lhe Otsego Quad. They fell 2-0 lo Otsego and 2-1 to South Haven before scoring a 2-1 win over Paw Paw Herblei had 12 kills and Warner 14 on the night. Hcrblet and Bailey Lewis each record­ ed six aces. Barnes set all the way around Tuesday. Slaughter led the Saxons with five solo blocks and on block assist. Hastings was scheduled lo be at Jackson Northwest for an Interstate-8 .Athletic Conference match last night (Sept. 30) and will return to play tonight al East Grand Rapids. The Saxons go to Belding Tuesday and then will be home for another 1-8 match with Harper Creek Wednesday (Oct. 7). Hastings libero Ella Carroll turns her back to the net to save a ball at the back of the court during her team's 3-1 win over visiting Saranac Thursday evening. (Photo by Breit Bremer) a . . •/ Thinking ab©yt switching banks? A .? R/teirstaiitl send! Parma Western sfefeartl: Sax©fn b©ys? tennis team in final 1-8 duals We will deposit $100 into your new HCB account hjfe.and we will help you make the move. e ■ The Hastings varsity boys’ tennis team fell to 0-7 in the lnlerstate-8 Athletic Conference this season as the Saxons fell lo visiting Marshall 8-0 Tuesday. The Red Hawks took all four flights in straight sets. Marshall’s Jonah Benson scored a 6-3, 6-1 win oxer the Saxons’ Joey McLean in the first singles match. Mel can’s four games was as many as lhe Saxons look off the Red Hawks at any Hight. Hastings’Cole McKenna battled Marshall’s Jack Tekiele lo a 6-2. 6 2 decision al fourth singles, l he Hastings third doubles team of Keegan Lindsey and Joey Tumes look three games off lhe Marshall duo of Seth Lindsey and Kody Chamberlin but ullimaielv fell 6 3 6-1. ' Parma Western scored an 8-0 win over the visiting Saxons last Wednesday (Sept. 23). highpoint FDIC highpointcommunitybanR.com { 888*422-2280 LtmiUd t>m« offer. Valid lot new personal chacking account! A direct deposit from your employer, pension or qOwt deposit into your new account Once this requirement is met, the $100 deposit will bo made to your account wnht(, / t: within 6 months. This offer is limited to one per account or customer Not available to editing Highpoint Commun i with a negative balance Bonus is considered interest and will be reported on IRS form 1099 INI See any Highpoint c l| — -----------------------’^Un ‘fit “ 4“ ”V?1 ■ day* ‘ ,thin 90 day* of account opening to receive the $100 le« ol $,0° be charged if the account is dosed y whose accounts have been closed within 90 day* or closed w Bank 880 •*“ J26° «»9«.u.wd. ---------------- 1--------------------------------------------------------- *— Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner classified ads � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-10-08.pdf 3c887aa67ffff9671485b3c44a88e3aa PDF Text Text Lake residents pose Senate bill Ingenuity dedication imnrnve public health improve r .flZ 0M Pngc 4 Saxon golfer earns second shot at State ee Story on Page 20 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 ««*** VOLUME 167, No 40 Thursday, ANNER 2020 __ _ ____ rruut PRICE $1.00 Royal Coach building destroyed TA. The fire at the Royal Coach Property is possibly the largest Hastings has seen in nearly 40 years. Hastings Fire Chief Roger Caris said. Ironically, most of the small cedar trees seen here survived the blaze. (Photo by Nicole Smith) Cause of fire unknown Taylor Owens Staff Writer The historic Royal Coach/Hastings Table Company building was destroyed in a mas­ sive tire that broke out around 3:30 a.m. Wednesday morning. The building was empty at the lime of the fin?, and no injuries have been reported, offi­ cials said. Potential causes for the blaze were unknown as of Wednesday afternoon. *I*he former factory had three floors and a total footprint of 99.000 square feet. Hastings City l ire Chief Roger Caris said this may be the largest fire in the city limits in the 39 years he has been chief. Freeport Area l ire Lt. l.ani bodies said B.irry Count) Central Dispatch initially received a call at 3:31 a m.. reporting an odor, possibly smoke, in the area. When first responders arrived, they saw smoke coming from the south side of the building. .■ Firefighters began covering nearby build ings with water to prevent the fire from spreading. Heat from die blaze set a nearby power Pole on fire, and Consumers Energy cut oft electricity to (be area. Because of ihr place­ ment of the line. Consumers had to shut off power to four distribution substations, which cut off electricity to 6.543 customers, utility ipokes person Terry DcDocs said. Approximately 40 firefighters from Hastings. Freeport. Thomapplc Township Emergency Services and Woodland Township Fire Department helped fight the blaze at its peak, Forbes said. Barry County Sheriff’s deputies, Hastings City Police and Mercy Ambulance also responded to the scene. The Hastings Department of Public Services opened up the water tower to fire­ lighters around 4 a.m. Firefighters continued to pour water on the smoking debris throughout the day Wednesday. Hastings Area Schools. Maple Valley Schools. Barry County Christian School and the Lakewood Early Childhood Center closed Wednesday because of the widespread power outages. According to Consumers Energy officials, power outages stretched from Hastings io Ionian l ake in the north, and to Cochran Road in Eaton County, to the east. Power to 4.525 customers was restored before 7 a.m.. and crews finished work and restored power to the rest of the area at I; 19 p,m.» they said. Hastings Police Chief Jell Pratt said the investigation into the cause will involve mul­ tiple deportments, but that probe cannot start until firefighters are done al the .scene A crowd of people stood behind police tape and watched the fire as it continued to smol­ der throughout the day Wednesday. “It’s super sad for the Hastings community. There were great plans for that building.” Jeff Guenther Hastings Manufacturing Company Vice President of Sates „ ■ Hastings Manufacturing Company, which >S next door, was undamaged in |h(_ fin. vice President of Sales Jett Oucnther said “It's super sad for the Hwing‘ coinil|Uni. y. Guenther satd. fhere Wcrc |ans for that building. “It just broke my heart t0 .. Unless (here is a fatality, porbcs u j$ usually the m.uranu. company thal wou|d call lor an ntvesugatton. A 0(wfed^. alternoon. an invesltgatlOn called. Forbes added it would |jke|v . . ’ days for the beat to hubs;(| ’ C S<J ’ authorities to examine the debrkwhfre the building once stood. ^ns where the As ul Wednesday, an inv . yet been culled. ""gallon hud not Crews from Thornapple Township Emergency Services pack up gear at 8:30 Wednesday morning, five hours after a lire started that quickly destroyed a nearly 130-year-old factory building in Hastings. (Photo by Kathy Maurer} • �| After smaller warehouses were removed in 2017, the nearly lory created a backdrop on East Mill Street from Michigan Avenue. Wednesday morn -inn. the street was closed, and emergency vehicles were scattered in front o building's smoky, skeletal remains. (Photo by Kathy Maurer) Hours into the blaze, firefighters continue to hose down the flames. (Photo by Kathy Maurer) Firefighters from at least four departments tend to the blaze that quickly destroyed ‘the 130-yearold factory building. The fire started around 3:30 a.m., and the cause remains unknown. (Photo by Taylor Owens) Around 40 firefighters from multiple departments battled the blaze at its peak early Wednesday. • By 6 a.m.. little remains of the building that had been a hub of activity and a source for chairs, tables and travel trailers over the decades. ! Bricks, beams and other rubble are strewn across Mill Street near Hanover after the ’three story structure collapsed. �State ~___ * _..i________ .nnr k„i._ Orti/ „ fc,S,uPreme Court rules govern01- lacks COVID-19 emergency powers 3 The Hastings Banner — Thursday. Oc!olx-< 8. 2020 — Page ' Fri-hv^'*\*ed ^’chjpan^^aZ^nC them simply reinforcing Whitmer’s executive Michigan un powers during Michigan go' g°ve fe* cptT: Coun °n orders. Power t0 i”,; Whitmei The Supreme Court ruling came just hour* enn eto,,b'e<.ru,n. 1 CM:culi'e orders in after Whitmer exercised her disputed powers, ........ »> «■■■ ?'cn* from the Le..; i pandem«c without ordering a series of business restrictions in governor tentp<)r . *Ky powers during ,n a 4-3 . t"‘s,ature. emergencies. B'1> "^ntv said lhal laX response to surging coronavirus cases in the JWyity ruled thuta'thc u?Url s conservativr J-rs Principles. Upper Peninsula. It’s unclear whether that violates separa*11 ne law •1O1{K. onlinue issUing Excited to order now stands. exccumergenev p., erF’ency orders — rhe ’ c Powers of state The order "effectively" invalidates live branch the government -- •"" “d'"8 "v plenary police 9*!5 ’imlawfuilvf l.b> Gnvcnior Act of Whitmer’s executive orders, "but it may take powers _ and to -!!”* lie exercise of such authority to lhe ex ‘ * legates legislative the formality of further action by the federal ' man wrote. "As a ion court,” said Steven Liedel, a government pol­ powers in<lefin|,L >• L-onse<|uence,.thc l^l^not continue to icy attorney al the Dykcma law' firm. hi"zXceCdta'C "‘’'"n8erle^|U,i*e **’* "The ability (for Whitmer) to move for­ provide a basis fo\.int ^«vcniOr (o exercise ward and enforce those orders in any mean­ emergency ^v'hcGovemor’inhC.e'CCU'iVC ord<'f!' is*ucd A separate 197 ‘ allows the gover­ ingful way is going to lx* affected." said Pandemic now i’,,respolnsc|othcC3VID-I9 Liedel, who served as legal counsel to former nor to declare J • of emergency but hnv‘” Justice S^\eT\’aaSUnderMichigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm. requires legislativ J? every 28 days. majority opinion ,arknmn wrote in a • ughest court ruled But Whitmer still has options to address the Justices on the s 1 n»l give Whitmer pandemic, including additional public health unanimously the a b clear on Frid-iv* n,,inP w asn’t immediate- orders from the Michigan Department of authority to extend net state of emergency after April 30, w le Republican-led rcsponse to i f. \nJ)art because it came in Health and Human Services. separate but’reHt^c^xl^ " Weighing a legislature decline cr requ esl j'or an exlen. "Obviously, the Department of Health and fom the DenkKratir ab°UI spcci,k OrdcrS Human Services works for the governor, and sion. . . But the three liberal justices on the court Whit™. ,ral,t governor. that would be one option.” Liedel said. “I majority of R * frorn a “narrow suspect we’ll see new actions by the admin­ objected to the conservative ruling on the «ap^iXg *’ C,M,bhcan justk*es is deeply dis1945 law. . istration to address some of the issues that had Chief Justice Bridget McCormack accused been addressed by the executive orders." inierprctatkw^/a)urt’s Whitmer has issued more than 180 execu­ the majority of "creating a new constitutional Whitmer said Pn a ConS,i,U,ion" tive orders related to the coronavirus since rule to strike down a 75 -year-old statute" that mid-March, when she first declared a state of the Legislature approved to address emergen­ that no nvLfbe ^°P*e Michigan to know emergency shortly after the first two cases of cies. fightinn t W KU haPPcns'1 win never stop the virus were discovered in the state. "In doing so, the majority needlessly inserts •mm •his‘deadbPv^s-nd >OUr Safc Tlie orders touched on multiple facets of the Court into what has become an emotional­ life in Michigan, at one point closing restau­ ly charged political dispute," McCormack effLXt,fo^r?Iendcd lhc ru,ing doesn’1 take rants and retail businesses and schools and wrote in a dissent. use " days’ After lha‘‘ shc she’ll then limiting capacity, as well as imposing "Because our precedent does not support - s alternative sources of authority" to "connumerous restrictions on nursing homes. The the majority’s decision, because I would not of the virus." orders also banned evictions and water shut­ make new rules to address a once-in-a-centuH.>ni.|ll?*er d,d not c,aborate» but the state offs. ry global pandemic, and because there are * i cpartnient. which she controls, also Initially, Whitmer issued the orders with many other remedies available to curb execu­ as issued orders that remain place and tacit consent from the Legislature, but the tive overreach, I respectfully dissent in part.” challenged and incorporate elements of the Republican majority refused to extend a state The seven-member court consists of four governor s directives on masks, worker safety of emergency past April 30. Republican-affiliated justices and three with and other business regulations. Since then, she’s renewed the emergency Democratic ties. Il issued the opinion in Health Director' Robert Gordon has response to a request U.S. District Judge Paul several times and issued 123 orders. signed 19 such orders since March, some of At issue are two dueling laws that give Maloney, who had asked them to weigh in on Confusion reigns in Michigan over masks after COVID ruling Bridge Magazine Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s admin­ istration mover! Monday to reimpose a state­ wide mask mandate and limits on businesses, setting up a clash with Republicans after the state Supreme Court limited her authority to act unilaterally amid the coronavirus pandem­ ic. While Whitmer and her allies say lhe state health department has lhe power to issue orders to protect the public, some conserva­ tives disagreed. The confusion followed a Michigan Supreme Court ruling Friday that deemed unconstitutional a 1945 law Whitmer has used to issue 123 orders after the Legislature refused to extend a slate of emergency in late April. ’Hiirty of Whitmer’s orders were in place when the ruling came out. Days after the ruling, business owners said they want guidance on whether they still need to limit lhe number of customers in stores, and doubts remain as to whether police can ticket those who refuse to wear masks. "There’s a lol up in the air,” said Bob Stevenson, executive director of Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police. Schcxd and business leaders said that poli­ cies in place before lhe court order likely will remain, with masks mandatory for students and customers. But a host of other issues remain. Here’s a look at the debate: What are the latest rules from the Whitmer administration? Robert Gordon, director of the stale Department of Health and Human Services, issued a statewide emergency order Monday that mimics some of the governor’s rescinded orders by placing limits on indoor and out­ door gatherings and events, requires masks be worn in businesses and schools, and requires •nhletcs to wear masks while playing sports. The order takes effect immediately and .mi Oct 30. Gordon argues it carries ^he force of law and it’s "critically imporunt" [hat local law enforcement e^e .«• Whv did they issue the rules. a state Supreme Court ruling issued on Friday afternoon determined that Whitmer H'S i e authority to issue execuuve orders ! k io the coronavirus pandemic withm response4 |xgisIature. out consent of d)<; executivc orders u nl ice - including those to require currently m P>-_ in pl|b)ic spaccSi keep Pe°pl.e r'r.nce require workplace safety and social • __ would become moot other protecb^ either mmicdi. ) (0 spnl)g A patchwork ru|ing. and Gordon said xssary r^'Xle .s nece . to maintain puba statewide rui fie safetyr । . vjrus. but the virus is -We are ured told reporters not tired of us. Monday. . crjtical to make clear the "Orders of us most follow so all of shared norti ‘ " US can tentu'1'''^Xriuistration say u s legal.’ Why does'he “h .1|1|horily U11der a Gonion clamwd b ||u. er 15sUe state law •I’-" -prohibit the gathering ..... . order* w * ,. j U) "establish ic to im»urc c health services and enforcement of health laws” in the case of an epidemic. "Our legal authority here is clear.” Gordon said. "It is different than the authority which the Michigan Supreme Court spoke to... the authority’ delegated by the Legislature to the DHHS director is narrower, it has clearer con­ tours, and it allows for less action. So I think it is a very different authority." More than a dozen attorneys at the University of Michigan Law- School signed a letter Monday agreeing with Gordon. Why do some say lhe orders are illegal? Some conservative leaders and attorneys questioned whether Gordon’s rule would stand up to a legal challenge. After all, Gordon is an appointee of Whitmer, and the Supreme Court ruled that she overreached in setting health restrictions without input of the Legislature. "The highest court in our slate couldn’t have been more clear in their ruling - they told (Whitmer) to slop breaking lhe law by going it alone and to work with the Legislature to tackle lhe pandemic,” Senate Majority Leader .Mike Shirkey, R-Clarklake, wrote on 'Twitter on Monday. "Clearly she didn’t get the message." John Bursch. a Caledonia-based attorney and former state solicitor general, said he’s skeptical that courts will allow Whitmer to "keep doing the same thing.” Katherine Henry, a Hudsonville-based attorney, said the Supreme Court determined Whitmer’s handling of the coronavirus pan­ demic violated the separation of powers. Gordon’s rule is "equally unconstitutional because (he and Whitmer) are members of the executive branch trying to utilize po wets that belong to the legislative branch.” she said. What will the police enforce? On Sunday, Attorney General Dana Nessel, a fellow Democrat and ally of Whitmer, announced she will no longer enforce lhe gov­ ernor’s orders. But her office said it would enforce health department epidemic orders. Nessel’s spokesperson said in a statement her decision to not enforce executive orders isn’t binding on law enforcement agen­ cies or slate departments "with independent enforcement authority," adding that it is "her fervent hope” that people will continue to wear masks and socially distance. Stevenson, the director of police chiefs, said that police likely will follow Nessel’s lead and may not enforce Whitmer’s execu­ tive orders but were looking into the health orders. Even so, businesses still can require masks for entry, Stevenson said, adding that police will enforce business owners’ rights to make decisions for mask wearing in their stores. "The big thing is we don’t want anybody gelling hurt or injured fighting about wearing masks or not wearing masks,” Stevenson said "Just respect the business owners.” When does the Supreme Court ruling go into effect? That’s also a point of contention. Whitmer argues the ruling doesn’t go into effect for at least three more weeks, which is how long parties have to file a motion for reconsideration under Supreme Court rules. Speaker of the House Lee Chatfield, R-Ixvering, told reporters her interpretation is "wrong” and the ruling went into effect immediately, invalidating all of her existing executive orders. Some attorneys disagreed on whether that’s the case. Whitmer asked the Supreme Court to clari­ fy this on Monday. What’s happening at tAc local level? Local health departments, too. have claimed legal authority to issue orders to protect pub­ lic health under a different section of Michigan law. Since the Supreme Court ruling, officials in Oakland, Ingham, Washtenaw and Wayne counties have indicated they would continue local mask requirements and other safeguards. Other counties, such as Macomb, have indi­ cated they won’t. Some lawyers, perhaps unsurprisingly, are also questioning whether county health orders are now' legal. What does this mean for individuals? While confusion remains over statewide rules, experts say that if businesses require masks, social distancing and lowered capacity in their stores, police can cite those who vio­ late their rules with trespassing. But customers who ditch masks at other venues probably won’t face civil fines or mis­ demeanors like they would a week ago. in part because some police are as confused as every­ one else. That said, health experts and state leaders (including Republicans) say wearing masks is still important and can decrease the chance of spreading coronavirus, which has sickened nearly 143.000 people and killed more than 7.100 in Michigan since mid-March. What does this mean for schools? Under Gordon’s order, masks arc required to be worn in schools in most of the state. In Region 6, the northern Michigan region that encompasses Traverse City, masks are recom­ mended. Gordon said these rules are the same as those that Whitmer implemented under her executive orders. Even before the new orders, many school officials said they plan on continuing as if nothing has changed. That said, a little guidance w-ould help, school officials say. "There’s still much ambiguity about how' school districts should continue to function," said Don Wotruba, executive director of lhe Michigan Association of School Boards. "Our members and the districts they sene need clear guidelines regarding functions that are integral io the operation of our school communities.” What docs this mean for businesses? Dozens of businesses have been fined up to $7,000 each in recent months by the state’s Occupational Safety and Heahh^ministration (M1OSHA) for viohUng workplace safety rules related to C0V1D-19. * Those fines remain, even With the Supreme Court order, Sean Egan, Michigan’s COVID19 workplace safety director, said. The agency derives ns authority from a state law that requires enip|oycry. provide a hazard-tree workp at’e. not from executive orders, Egan said"The recent Supreme cOutt dccision does not change that.’ See RULINQt page 10 the governor’s powers as he considers a fedthe governor’s powers :i cral lawsuit over medical orders she issued bar her this year. 5 The Michigan Supreme Court has not ruled in a separate lawsuit by the Republican-led slate Legislature. House Speaker Lee Chatfield. R-Ixvering, called the ruling a “big win for our democrat­ ic process” that will require the legislative and executive branches to work together on the state’s continued response to COVID-19. ”We will now continue our partnership with our governor,” Chatfield said in a state­ ment. “We will work through this challenge as our Constitution requires and as we always have in times past - together.” In a statement. Michigan Republican Party Chair Laura Cox said "this is a great day for the people of Michigan, while Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey. R-Clarklake. said"now is the time for bipartisan action to transition from government operating in fear of the virus to government managing life in the pres­ ence of the virus.” Attorney General Dana Ncssel. a Democrat, wrote on Twitter that "while I respect and accept the decision of the court, I fear for the future of our state and for all our residents.” Whitmer is not the only state governor to lose legal battles over her executive power during the pandemic. In Wisconsin. Republican lawmakers sue cessfully -.tied Democratic Governor Tony Evers’ administration to cancel an April extension of the state’s stay-home orders. In that case, the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled in May that the stay-at-home order was •‘unenforceable.” The court ruled Evers’ administration must instead enact COVID-19 policies as administrative rules subject to leg­ islative oversight. Now, a conservative law firm in Wisconsin is challenging Ever*’ recent extension of the state’s public health emergency, which includes a statewide mask order. The group contends Evers has no power to extend the emergency without legislative consent. That case is pending. Multiple other governors have been sued over their COVID-19 restrictions. In Minnesota, a judge last month dis­ missed Republican lawmakers’ lawsuit chal­ lenging Gov. Tim Walz’ emergency powers, ruling that Walz “has acted pursuant to the authority delegated to him by the legislature.” Schools react to state COVID-19 whiplash i Taylor Owens Staff Writer After the Michigan Supreme Court over­ turned Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s executive orders last Friday, many school districts announced Monday they would not require elementary students to wear masks in class. Then, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services issued its new require­ ments Monday evening, and school districts had to change course. Hastings Area Schools issued a press release on social media Monday, saying lhe district would continue as it had been, and that its K-5 students would not need to wear masks. But on Wednesday, Superintendent Dan Remcnap said the district is now requiring elementary students to wear masks. "We are following the MDHHS orders." Remcnap said. In a letter to the community Tuesday, Delton Oktoberfest everat is Saturday The Delton community will celebrate its second annual Oktoberfest Saturday, Oct. 10, from 3 to 9 p.m. al William Smith Park, behind the fire station. The park is home to a newly built amphi­ theater, where two bands will perform. Kevin Nichols and Blue Tuesday will be on stage from 3 to 5:30 p.m., followed by the Chris Canas Band from 6 to 9. Delton Moose Lodge will have a beer tent, and NEDS on Gull Lake is planning to sell barbecued and smoked food. The Delton Kellogg Senior Mystery Trip Committee will host a cornhole tourna­ ment. with registration at 1:30 p.m. and play beginning at 2. The seniors also will be selling pumpkins for $5 each. Anyone wanting more information may call Paula High. 269-838-5240, or Ron Daniels, 269-569-6220. CROP Walk is home event "Walk al Home" is the theme for this year’s Barry County CROP Hunger Walk Oct. 11. Participants are being encouraged to find ways to walk at home and raise money for others in need. One-fourth of money raised in lhe event will go to local organizations: Barry County Cares, Good Food for Freeport. Hastings Community Food Pantry, Maple Valley Community Center of Hope and the Middleville Food Pantry'. “There are families in our county as well as in every comer ot our country and world that are straggling to provide food for their families, as well as a roof over their head," coordinator Nolan Hudson said. By partnering wilh Church World Service, the Bany County CROP Hunger Walk also can give aid to suffering families around the world, he said. The goal for lhe Oct. 11 event is to have 150 walkers raise $12.(X)0. A special chal­ lenge has Ikrcn issued to youth groups ot three or more. In lhe past 38 years. Hudson said, the Barry County walk has raised a total ot $457,223. Any individuals or congregations may take part in the event or donate online Die w e b s * 1 . e crophungcrwalk.org/haslingsmi provides instructions for donors and participants. Or, Hudson (517-852-1821) can provide addi­ tional information. Maple Valley Schools Superintendent Katherine Bertolini explained that, since the Michigan Return to Leam plan was imple­ mented as an act of legislation, not an execu­ tive order, and since it was adopted by thC district’s Board of Education, it will still be followed. 'That plan requires masks for stu; dents in grades six through 12. Maple Valley now requires K-5 students to wear masks, as per the MDHHS order. In a YouTube video posted Tuesday, Delton Kellogg Superintendent Kyle Corlett said the district will require masks. "I had a Zoom (call) with our attorneys today, and they said it’s like lhe Wild West now that the executive orders have been over­ turned,’’ Corlett said in the video. “For those of us that arc looking to main­ tain a safe environment, we’re getting pingponged a little bit,” I-akcwo<xl Public Schools Superintendent Steven Skalka said. Skalka added that Lakewood will follow the MDHHS orders. ‘ Country Chapel hosting chicken dinner Saturday Country Chapel in Dowling is preparing for its annual barbecue chicken lunch at noon Saturday. Oct. 10. Meals w ill be prepared on large grills and will be ready for take-out. Each $10 meal will include half of a roasted chicken, homemade roll, baked beans, potato salad, water or coffee, and dessert. Guests are welcome to sit under the pavilion while their children or grandchil­ dren play on the new playground. All proceeds will go toward kitchen ren­ ovations. The church is at 9275 S. M-37, Dowling. More information is available by calling 269-721-8077. Help for Holidays signup underway Help for the Holidays, a Barry County program ccxirdinated by Barry County Cares, helps people in need at Christmas time. Barry County Cares connects individuals and families wilh churches, organizations, businesses and others who provide help, such as food lor a family or toys for chil­ dren. Participants must self-register between now- and Nov. 25 at one of the following locations, based on their residence: Hastings and Middleville addresses: Barry County Cares, call only: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-l p.m.; 269-948 9555. Delton addresses: Dehon District Library Monday. Wednesday. Friday. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Hiesday and Thursday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.: 269-623-8040. Nashville addresses; Village clerk’s office Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., (closed Wednesdav and Friday, noon to 1 p.m.); 517-852-9544. Freeport addresse s; Call ........... Frecjxirt United Methodist Church. 616-765-5316. leave name and number. Resident* al all other Bany County addresses may call Hairy County Cares, 269-948-9555. Those wishing to "adopt'’ a family may call Bany County Cates, 269-948-9555. More information is available by calling Tina Horrigan at 269-948-9555 or emailing barrycountycaresO*■•yahoo.com. �'inion Pige 4 - Thursday. October 8. 2020 - The Hastings Banner Did you see Ingenuity, lead public health battle Look for the rainbow Crisp fall weather seems to snap everything up - whether it’s the sun set­ ting on Wall Lake or the moon smiling down on the historic Hastings County Courthouse. Breathe deep, crunch into a Honey Crisp and think of all the beau­ tiful snowfalls ahead. As long as you don’t have to travel anywhere, it’s all good. This scene shows the rainbow that etched the sky behind this Johnstown Township farm over the weekend. We're looking for great pho­ tos, so share them if you’ve got them. Send to news@j-adgraphics.com. Do you As the COV1D-19 pandemic stalks its nv m___ i. our . * . . r._. way through communities and. our fam ­ remember? Tasteful marketing Banner Nov. 4.1948 Barry ag teachers study marketing - A practical study of fresh produce marketing occupied vocational agriculture teachers of the Grand Rapids region for a day during their recent MEA meeting. As guests of A&P Food Stores, they toured the chain's Grand Rapids warehouse and bakery and discussed marketing problems at a luncheon at the Rowe Hotel. Barry representatives pictured here inspecting a display of Michigan produce are (from left) J .A. Tunk. produce sales manager, Louis Plummer, Woodland; Lawrence Steenwyck, Woodland High pnncipal; Fred Adolph, Delton; Elton Lawrence, Middleville; and Ted Knopf, Hastings. Have you met? Suzanne Pufpaff, 68. has reinvented her­ self perhaps more times than she can count. She’s been a rural mail-carrier, gardener, small business owner, stay-at-home mom. data processor, teacher and much more. The thread of consistency throughout her multi­ faceted life, though, has been her dedication and passion for arts, craftsmanship and sus­ tainability. Bom in Ann Arbor in 1952, Pufpaff grew up on a farm in Eaton Rapids. She remem­ bers being draw n to crafts as young as age 3. “I can remember when 1 was like three or four, trying to pick up a set of knitting nee­ dles around and wanting to know how to use them,” Pufpaff said. “My mom was not a good teacher, so I didn’t actually leam how to "knit until I was 10. But by lhe time I was 12, I was designing sweaters and teaching my teachers." She continued to foster her love of creat­ ing as she grew older — particularly through her involvement with 4-11 — and before long she was enrolling at Alma College. There she had a life-changing experience. In 1973 — three years into her sociology degree at Alma — Pufpaff boarded a plane and flew to Madiun, Indonesia fora 10-week missionary trip. Leaving everything she had ever knowrn behind and experiencing a totally different way of life, challenged Putpaft. In particular, she remembers often seeing multiple generations of one family living in a house lhe size of a single-car garage wilh dirt floors. If they were lucky, they’d have indoor plumbing. Corning from a wealthy country, she was startled to see a level of poverty that dire. “I learned firsthand by living in that coun­ try, how little we really need,” Pufpaff said. “I came back from that experience feeling extremely guilty about being an American: the consumerism, the overpricing and the overconsumption." Still, what she saw inspired her. There was a vibrant culture of people living in extreme Jy difficult conditions, surviving without what would be considered necessities in other countries. “When 1 was in Indonesia, 1 was touring schools all lhe time. I mean, we’re talking here, children that live in a space that we Suzanne Pufpaff would consider a large bedroom. with their whole families, going to school: but the beauty of the artwork and the drawings and lhe creativity of these children — absoluteiv phenomenal.” Pufpaff said. When she returned, she dedicated herself to fighting consumerism and promoting sus­ tainability; this new goal invariably found its way into her work. hi the 30 years she spent as a fiber artist. Pufpaff explored many forms of arts: knit­ ting, sewing, fabric weaving, crocheting and more. In her dedication to sustainability, Pufpaff raised rabbits, llamas and even an alpaca, using their fur to create fell. She also owned and operated a carding mill for 12 years; now she’s converted it into a studio space. "All of my creating has been wilh lhe idea of going back to basic sources and creating — creating, not consuming, but creating — making something useful, making somethin^ lo keep il out of lhe trash bin.” Pufpaff’s latest project, basket weaving, is another iteration of ibis belief; she began this newest pursuit last year when she was trying lo use up old craft paper. Through a process of rolling, folding and weaving. Pufpaff turns old magazines, junk mail and other paper into baskets. When the Michigan Fiber Festival was cancelled this year due to COVID-19. she used lhe festival’s pamphlets to create com­ memorative boxes. Pufpaff said during quarantine — and, really, most of her life — art and crafting have kept her sane. “It gives me sanity.” Pufpaff said.‘‘The satisfaction that someone gets from complet­ ing a project — no matter how simple, no matter how complicated, no matter how pro­ fessionally or unprofessional^ done it is — there’s a sense of accomplishment that creat­ ing gives and there is nothing else that can do it." In 1978. Pufpaff moved to Barry' County. 1 hough she’s lived and visited many places - including 49 of the 50 slates - Pufpaff said Barry County Ls her favorite. "I absolutely love Barry County.” Pufpaff said, “Of all the stales I’ve been to. Michigan is still my favorite and in Michigan. Barry County is my favorite.” Pufpaff intends to |jvc oul the rest of her retirement in her idyUjc |iome. in her favorite county, surrounded by the arts and crafts that Have given her pcace d meaning everyday of her varied life. “Art gives balance in life that nothing else really does. Pufpaff j “We miss oul when we don’t a||ow ,h(. creative side of us to. to express. And so 1 guess that was anoth­ er part of the necd w ni.lkc something ' For her d' r bul hav<; k-auty to it too" I or her dedicate .. Slistainability. art and craftsmanship, Su" ^^^fpaff is this week’s Banner . I irst job: f-irsij “ i( f;irm was >'>e MUier F^lL Cream Parlor. X;T^\^<wwwkedror Favorite TV „?S1 scho01, w„eh TV . 1117’uld t-'o •>ii>Vi"i:.lilnhe 'vorld: rhere is no plate like h(im'htreinm He trem'ed eve' "'“'ire and My lalhCr; nut every,,. ,, n,]. took and he nA and always See«AV£yol/MET,pa^e9 ilies, it s interesting to note lhat we’ve already been seized by the terror of an equally serious disease for most of our life­ time. I lost a family friend last week to cancer, former Hastings resident Vicki Clarey, who finally lost her battle against cancer when treatments wore her down to the point she was unable to continue the fight. When you read lhe weekly obituaries in our newspa­ pers. it s apparent that many of these people lost their own battles to this predator dis­ ease. Every family in America has been touched in some way by cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, 1,806,590 new cancer cases will be reported and 606,520 deaths are expected before the end of 2020. That’s an estimated 4,950 new cases and more than 1,600 deaths each day. So prevalent is cancer in our lives that the expression, “This is like a cancer," has become commonly used lo verbalize how one thing can have a negative effect on something else. For example. COVID-19 is having a “cancerous” impact on our nation. Or the illicit drug epidemic is a “cancer" sweeping through our communities. While the expression may be a bit overused, it does help to show us another level of sever­ ity to a given situation - such as COVID-19. Medical experts remind us that cancer is not just one disease. It’s a group of more than 100 different and distinctive diseases that can involve any tissue of the body and have vary ing outcomes in each area of the body. In last week’s edition of The Reminder. we focused on cancer and highlighted Janis Fitzgerald’s valiant fight against the disease. Janis knows that eventually lhe disease will win. but she’s waged a battle for more than 12 years to extend her life. Janis Fitzgerald is just one of many peo­ ple we know who are fighting this enemy to gamer a few more precious years of life. Her grueling, tiring fight seems so much more personal to us today as we see COVID19 patients also struggling, holding on for a better scientific understanding of what we’re all up against, and hoping for a cure or a preventive vaccine. In all the years we’ve been combatting cancer, experts say we still don’t have a cure, but, when detected early - just like CO VID-19 - treatments can significantly improve a person’s outlook. We know that both diseases impact people differently. Wilh some, COVID-19 becomes a deadly disease, while others may not even realize they were exposed to the virus. Can viruses lead to cancer? /Xccording to the American Cancer Society, yes, several viruses are linked with cancer in humans. “Our growing knowledge of the role of viruses as a cause of cancer has led to the development of vaccines to help prevent certain human cancers,” according to a report from the Cancer Society. “But these vaccines can only protect against infections if they are given before the person is exposed to the cancer-promoting virus.” The report reminded us that “cancer is not contagious, but a fair number of cancers are clearly caused by viral or bacterial infec­ tions.” The biggest threat from the COVID-19 pandemic for cancer patients has been post­ poning treatments during the shutdown of medical facilities across the country and the risk that a cancer patient with a compro­ mised immunity might get COVID-19. The threat COVID-19 presents has mobilized the world’s experts in an effort to find spe­ cial drugs or a vaccine that will mediate the disease, especially to America’s oldest citi­ zens. In that way. the deadly disease we’re fighting today has so much in common with that long-standing enemy, cancer. Presently more than 200,000 Americans have died from COVID-19, making it one of the country’s worst pandemics since 1918 when lhe Spanish flu claimed more than 50 million lives worldwide and 675.000 deaths in the United States. With Spanish flu, the death rate was much higher in younger people, under the age of 5 and in the 20-40 age group, which was later con­ sidered a unique feature of the pandemic. With COVID-19, older citizens or people with compromising medical issues have been more at risk. Experts warn that the death rate for COVID-19 appears higher than seasonal influenza, though lhe true mortality rate will take some time to fully understand. Currently, the coronavirus death toll is more than 1 million people worldwide, but those are just estimates due to concerns that some countries aren’t reporting deaths fully or accurately. The especially tragic outcome roVID-19 is that so many victims from CU*H - „ and lonely death differed terriinj ..li.ironfini’ll so kn suffered a tern >yquarantined — «> be al lheir sides or lo devastated the global n,',nv bv oTerloadtng heallh systems and economy by o h seems changing lhe -£%hen seeing bio. to be glimmers around the world phannaceutic.i co p. d(.ve|oping solu*kdlCro'hclo dh Jose and treat those with Dexamethasone with no side: effects and was doing better. Monday, he left the hospt tai and returned to his While House resi­ dence where he will continue to receive treatments of the lifesaving drugs. The “investigational medical given lhe president is known as ‘ 1 ‘ COV2 and. though not yet approved by the Food and Drug Administration or certified for use with the general public, it has been in clinical trials since June. T he manufactur­ er announced early trial data with 275 non-hospitalized patients that the treatment was safe and seemed to reduce viral levels and improve symptoms when they are given early in lhe course of infection. Thomas Edison said, “When you have exhausted all possibilities, remember this: You haven’t.” And that’s been true with cancer and now COVID-19, where the world’s brightest minds are working around the clock to find ways to combat diseases that threaten so many of our citizens. That’s the encouragement we can all take from the inspiring dedication of scientists to conquer these monstrous challenges. “Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed (o be no hope at all,” Dale Carnegie said. We as Americans must support the efforts of these experts to find cures and antidotes necessary to fight these dangerous diseases. “1 love that the work we do is so vital to science,” said Taiwanese-American billion­ aire businessman and electrical engineer Jensen Huang. Huang co-founded the graphics-processor company Nvidia in 1993 and continues today as its CEO. “We’re in a lot of ways at the scientific front line. The work that we're doing to build up the com­ putational defense system for infectious diseases, whether it’s finding the vaccine as fast as possible this time or next time, is to detect early outbreaks.” Monday, Nvidia announced plans to use its computer chips to build Britain’s fastest supercomputer, a resource healthcare researchers necd to deal with medical prob­ lems such as COVID-19. Huang said his computer would be available using artificial intelligence to work on urgent medical chal­ lenges. “Tackling the world’s most pressing challenges in healthcare requires massively powerful computing resources lo harness the capabilities,” Huang said. Pharmaceutical companies like GlaxoSmithKline and AstraZeneca are among the groups that have already signed up to use the supercomputer. The advances we’ve seen in just these past few months should give us all hope that we’ve made great strides in finding some solutions not only to the current pandemic but to finding new discoveries in the fight against cancer, as well. “The future can be anything we want to make of il," the late and noted scientist, inventor Charles F. Kettering said. “I want to make the future better than the past. I don t w ant it contaminated by the mistakes and errors with which history is filled. Wc should all be concerned about the future, because lhat is where we will spend lhe remainder of our lives.” Each day brings hope that these experts will discover new treatments, drugs and computers that will give us lhe power lo lessen the threat to our future health. Fred Jacobs, CEO •I-Ad Graphics Inc �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October B, 2020 — Page 5 Haters have no home here painted with the J' Ut makes it a hu e tome., Reckless decision-making leads to lack of trust To the editor: causing me to vote “ JjZ" ' No’” on the new jail pro- Griffis choosing poUGes How can we possibly believe it’s really needed? law anij 'n,?.'Ls..to ,no' enforce lhe governor's And vfs heaUh d-Wtment law. departm .'„?•>they 1“e law- Ask ,hc health >F you don’t believe me. this reckless decision-making that is Larry Osborne, Delton Life is on the ballot To the editor: P;!^VaS “ proud mcmber of Barry County »ght to Life for about four years. That was DUore they endorsed a candidate for president no is pro-life for convenience. The 2016 election changed my way of thinking as a pro­ * C ,slncc I now had to consider where my Christian morals truly lay. through much prayer and careful research, I found a better path that not only decreases inc rate of abortion, but also promotes healthy living even outside lhe womb. I found that Democratic policies actually do a far better job at decreasing abortions and improving the quality of life in our country than Republican policies do. Since Roe v. Wade, after lhe initial spike in abortion that occurred at the lime, the abortion rate has gone down steadily. Why? Because after that landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision, women were able to receive better healthcare and contraceptive access through Democratic policies. Want io end abortion? Promote policies that reduce the rale of unwanted pregnancies. Fix our broken adoption system. Let gay people adopt. Stop saying “adoption is the loving option” if you’re not actually going to do things lhat help babies get adopted. Only one candidate in 2016 talked about fixing the adoption system and, if you don’t know who that is. I’ll give you a hint: She’s not president We also need to look at helping poorer communities so thev can afford to care for a child. And we need to stop promoting rape culture, which we do when we elect men who think that just because they’re rich they can grab a woman’s genitals. These are things Democrats have consistently fought for over the years. Joe Biden has committed himself to not increasing taxes for anyone making less than $400,000 a year. He also has been a trailblazer in the movement to help victims of rape and sexual assault. This is how you end abortion, by fixing the issues lhat lead lo abortion in the first place. When we take a look at lhe past four years, have we really seen anything “pro-life" occur? When the Trump administration ripped brown babies from their mamas’ arms down at the border, was that pro-life? When Trump called the KKK and Neo-Nazis in Charleston “very fine people," was that pro-life? When Trump fails to take action against systemic racism that leads to innocent black people being murdered, is that pro-life? When Trump admittedly downplayed a global pandemic that now has killed over 200,000 Americans, was lhat pro-life? /\nd when he appoints this next Supreme Court justice to overturn the Affordable Care Act without a replacement plan, stripping millions of Americans of health coverage during a global pandemic, will that be pro­ life? As a person who considers herself to be a pro-life Christian, I can’t support such evil acts as these. We have to take a stand this election. A stand for life. We can’t be complicit with this tyranny anymore. Life is on the ballot. Vote! Olivia Bennett, Thomapple Township Protect the tranquility of Wilkinson Lake To the editor: As 1 sit here looking out onto Wilkinson Lake in between rainstorms, I try’ to think about what to write in order to best convey the thoughts running through my mind, knowing of the potential that less than 100 feet away a gravel pit could be there. How do I convey the peacefulness and tranquility that Wilkinson Lake offers would literally disappear al lhe stamp of approval for something as relatively simple as a special use permit? I’ve since come to a realization that I can’t. Whether you are a member of this community for 30 days or 30 years, the immediacy of understanding exactly why everyone chose to make this their home is only felt if you are actually here. The fact is that emotions and feelings, although understandably are at an all-time high, will likely not be part of lhe consideration process as Hope Township’s Planning Committee reviews all pertinent information and makes a decision. That’s why a 59-page document is included and produced at my own time, energy and expense. That is the document meant to showcase an opposition poini of view’ to each and every point that R. Smith and Sons’ proposal claims from a scientific and fact-based perspective. This letter, however, is the emotional Most people have a choice ot where to hve, 1 recently had the choice of where else to live. I looked literally anywhere within a reasonable radius from Chicago and walked through i r hnmes across Wisconsin, Illinois, Wilkinson Lake here in Hope Township. Why? To live in peace and quiet and hear the leaves rustle. To move away from pollution and breathe in clean air. To move away from sirens and to hear the birds chirp. To move away from construction vehicles shaking my apartment and instead enjoy a thunderstorm in the afternoon. This is the value of Wilkinson Lake. This is the reason people live here. And now that very' reason could be gone - vanished in the blink of an eye and not coming back for decades, or potentially ever. It’s an unimaginable consequence that is nearly impossible to quantify or convey, unless you are here Robert Smith and Sons are not here. They will never be here. They simply are a visitor. They move from location to location submitting templaled proposals affixed to an attorney’s letterhead wherever they can buy plots of land throughout lhe state of Michigan. They are here lo disrupt the natural beauty of “Pure Michigan" and as soon as they have destroyed this area, they will simply move on. Because that is what visitors do. They come and go. Meanwhile the residents, like myself, have lheir lives completely altered. Their quiet retreat will no longer be available. The place lo get away from il all will not exist. All of what makes this place so special will be gone. A decision will have to be made, a very tough one, but there are two paths to take, I truly hope, from the bottom of my heart, that representing the interests of the residents is the path forward. Don Sklenka, Hope Township literal minutes of oeinc au The Hastings Banner DeUOted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Punished by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. N m,43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 1351 < releases' nows@]-adgraph!cs.com • Advertising: ads@j-adgraphlcs.com News and pfoss __________ _____ _____________________ _ Frederic Jacobs Publisher & CEO Hank Schuuring CFO .NEWSROOMRebecca Kathy Maure’ < J* £dltor) Bron Bremor (Spot Luka Fronchock Sophie BaleS Greg Char*' Taylor Owens . ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT. Ctevrf&i accepted Monday through fnday 8 30 am. lo 5 00 pm Scott Ommen Mike Gilmore Ty Greenfield Jennio Yonker Subscription Rates: S52 per year in Barry County $60 per year In adjoining counties $65 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER- Send addiocs change io PO. Box 183 Hastings. Ml 49058 0188 Socond Class Poolaga Paid ut Ml 49058 ^hitc Power. We are a w comm.’ . lv’nK in n predominantly *,,1‘ tJ n,ty. And we were - by a technicaW he vKllms of q crime. 1 d0."’‘ orthat?. rnmily was harmed or threaten^ * we )jVc in fear But the fact remains tha c wcrt5 ffor our expression tha erent from us should not be targete^ Is this w'ho we aft ’ ‘ ‘ ^ho our nation is? Scarier than mai* Is this who our community is? . I don’t believe tha e I know are responsible for this. a lengc you with this question because * st ape ()Ur socjcty and community: Are y with this? Are you OK with destruction 01 Property? Are you OK with oppression of a voice that is not in agreement with yours, re you wbb white power? If y°ur ans^cr to any of those questions is yes. plensc o me the favor of seeing yourself out. You might disagree n me politically. That’s fine. We can disagree about policy and candidates and laws and structure. But if you disagree with my right to self-expression; if you disagree with the safely of my family and my property; if you disagree that hate has no home here - lhen our relationship is non­ existent. There is no hope of friendship or relationship or mutual respect between us if those are your feelings. I’m tired of people making statements and posts on Facebook about maintaining friendships with people despite their political differences. This is not about politics. I’m not unaccepting of you because your political beliefs are different than mine. I’m unaccepting of hate, racism, sexism, homophobia, lack of concern for your fellow beings, lack of care for our planet, the belief that your way is the only way. In my humble and deeply held opinion, the belief in and devotion to any of that hateful rhetoric, or those who espouse it, make its holder an accomplice. I would never unfriend someone - on Facebook or in real life - because our political beliefs clash. But hatred and oppression should not be political beliefs.They should be considered the traits of hate groups, not political parties. If you canT tell the difference, you might want to take a good look in the mirror and ask yourself if you would want lhe same treatment your “leaders" afford to others. If you feel the necd to debate me on this, please just exit my life. Don’t waste your time in the comments section. There is nothing debatable about lhe need for every person lo be entitled to the same level of respect and rights. In the meantime. Hate Has No Home Here. If you disagree, mine is not the home for you. Megan Lave)!, Hastings Money doesn’t make the person To the editor: Descendants of wealthy families do not necessarily hold the same attributes as their wealth-creating founders. Sometimes it’s “Too much and never enough" as we can see in our current president. Frederick Mcijer Gardens is a wonderful gift to West Michigan and. from all accounts, Frederick Mcijer was a great and humble man. But I don’t think we should assume anything about a grandson who bears his name. Hillary Scholten is a lawyer who was raised by a newspaper journalist father and a schoolteacher mother. She also worked al Mel Trotter Industries serving the poor. That makes her more likely to understand the needs of everyday people. Her opponent can afford more ads on TV, but 1 believe Hillary is the better candidate. Time to update congressional formula 'lb the editor: In 1929, the United Slates Congress passed the Permanent /^apportionment Act. This law require:, the U.S. House of Representatives to maintain a constant number of representatives nt 435. Al the lime, il was sorely needed as states that had been added to the Union during the prior 50 years had an unequal say in the house, a "malapportionment" - some more than their population suggested and some less. The House kept adding scats in unequal ways, and lhe number of scats would fluctuate as stales were added. The U.S. Census is designed to alleviate this misrepresentation, but 150 years ago, obtaining accurate counts in the newly added, sprawling western states was downright impossible. The original framers of the Constitution codified in the document that each congress­ person’s maximum representation should be 30.000 (Article 1, Section 2. Clause 3). Like so many other issues, the original intent doesn’t satisfy the chancing times. If we were lo comply wilh lhe 30.000-constituenl maxi­ mum, the U.S. House would have almost 11.000 representatives. Thai is simply unreal­ istic and untenable (if you think congress is broken now ...) About 120 million people lived in the United .Stales in 1929. This means that each representative spoke for jusl under 276,000 people. Today, lhe U5. population is about 325 million people. This means each con­ gressperson represents almost 750,000 people (for comparison purposes. Australia has about 105,000 people per representative; Canada about 111,000; Michigan is about 91,000). Our population has almost tripled in lhe past 90 years, yet our congressional contingent remains the same. Our congresspeople are stretched further and further from represent­ ing all of their constituents. The United States needs lo update lhe per­ manent apportionment act and triple lhe size of the U.S. House of Representatives to 1305. There arc two ways to do this. First, Keep the congressional districts lhe same (apportion based upon 435) and assign three representa­ tives per district. The top three vote-getters win lhe three seats, so each constituent has three representatives. The campaigns would Elaine Garlock The former Station Deli has been replaced with a new business venture, a beauty salon owned by Tabitha Yonkers on the comer of Fourth Avenue and Tupper Lake Street. This structure was one of the filling stations on that corner when M-50 came into town from the west and then went south to either turn east on Second Street or (in later years) continue south to Jordan Lake Street. In recent years, there has been much testing of found water to check for contaminants left over from the service station years. Yet another tower is on the local scene. A tall lower reached by a crush stone driveway is on the south side of Tupper Lake Road between Nash Highway and Perry Road in Campbell Township on Waite property. The gift of a Banner from May 9, 1968 gives some interesting reading. The front page shows outstanding graduates. They were Sue Engle. James Fisher, Diane Gilbert, Curtis Henion. Haney Hoffman and Harold Lewis. They were being honored by the local Rotary Club al a luncheon at the Presbyterian Ha l. They had been chosen because of their scholastic standing and also their constructive use of their talents for the benefit of the school and lheir community. Solicitors had been named for lhe cancer crusade. Mrs. David Arnold was chairman of the spring crusade. Art Meade had been named Jaycces play much nicer since there would be several candidates and it would lx*, too expensive to attack everyone else. A candidate would sim­ ply have to finish in lhe top three. The reawn negative campaigning works ro well today is l>ecause almost every district in lhe country, has only two viable candidates (an argument can be made that in the>c days of hyper-accurate political line draw mg, there is only one viable candidate). This also would open the playing field for the smaller parties: Libertarian. Green, and others. If you know you can vote for three people, you are much more likely to choose people who more close­ ly align with your particular ideology. Secondly, reduce the size and population of each district by two-thirds This would create much smaller districts and allow representa­ tives to more closely align wilh their constit­ uents. Apportionment based on the census data would be based upon 1.305 seats as opposed lo 435. The effects would he two-fold: We would be much closer to a representative democracy. Representatives would speak for far fewer constituents, making them closer to the peo­ ple they represent. And. we would curtail the power of lhe Senate in the electoral college. This means the loser of the popular vote for president, while theoretically can still “win," the probability that the loser wins is vastly reduced. Personally. I would opt for having three representatives per district. In these days ot great polarization between the left and right, coupled with having the ability and desire to draw unfair districts, a significant minority of constituents feel their voices are muted because their representative doesn’t share even a kindred spirit, much less a palpable connection to their ideology. Having three representatives would give the minority a voice in a district where lhey currently have none. Justin Amash rarely speaks for me. The United States is getting farther and farther away from representative democracy. Adding representatives to Congress would move us toward a more democratic republic. Eric Anderson. Hastings president. He would succeed Sager Miller. Harry Burke had been named the responsible person for coordinating engineering activities at the E.W. Bliss Company where he had been for 32 years in various capacities. There was to be an open house at Hastings Floor Covering May I. The firm was at 123 W. Stale St. The store had been redecorated and remodeled in its fourth year. Larry Weiland had accepted a new position at Manchester College in North Manchester, Indiana, starting Sept. I. Mr. and Mrs. Robert Miller of Andrus Road announced lhe engagement of their daughter Susan Diane to Eldon Lee Oaks of Hastings. Patsy Searles was newly engaged to Barry Kennedy of West Green Street. There was to be a fashion show for Gittlemans al Leason Sharpe 1 fall, sponsored by a hospital guild. Two of lhe models were to be Mrs. Maynard Sutton and Mrs. William Heath. The Freeport Methodist Church was the setting Sunday for the golden anniversary dinner and open house honoring Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Moore. The American Legion Auxiliary was making plans for their annual sale of poppies with funds to go for veterans’ benefits. New veterans were returning from Vietnam. And that was a summary of news in May 1968. Carole G. Smith, Delton Facts, evidence missing in jail proposal To the editor: Has anybody ever borrowed money from any institution and not have to pay back with interest? It is the same with bonds. If you vote for the jail millage here in Barry County, they want $25 million, the payback will be just over $42 million. t . So, in reality yo11 a&rcc>ng to let them have $42 million out m poc^ U) buijd a jail, and we have no i ea what it looks like, how many cells, construction bids or where it will be built. They don’t wa,,t listing county property, but buy a * .J" s«e - for who knows how much’ could have an effect on the jail si/^ People of Barry coumy should vote “no" on the millage unm ? commissioners do lheir jobs and give dcimic 1Qq>. ^ngible evidence about our ne" J* • Charles Hertzler, Hastings PakHoc with rtfubied lunch by’ the CouNty Democritic Commmee POBoi SnHMrtngsMHWa ELECT DEMOCRATS NOVEMBER 3" �Page 6 - - Thur? day. October 8 2020 — Tha Hastings Banner Middleville bank robber sent to prison for 36 months arrest, making an hour. He had worked at Rebecca Pierer Fcdbx and. prior to that, al Applied Textiles in Editor Center. The Air force veteran robbed a bank teller Byron He was bom in Haiti. Port-au-Prince; his at gunpoint in Middleville on Nov. 26 and parents immigrated to the United States when made off \\ ith nearly $4 XXX). he was 5. He became a naturalized citizen and Gilbert Noel Jr.’ 55. of Yankee Springs enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving for six Fown ship, said needed the money to get drugs years from 1983 to 1989. He was stationed in for his girlfriend’s addiction. Oscoda, where he worked as a supply inven­ On Monday, when he told U.S. District tory manager. Judge Paul Maloney lhe circumstances that During a Jan. 24 hearing, U.S. Magistrate droxe him to commit the crime, he wept. His ex-wilc and tuo sons were watching Ray Kent called him “a real enigma.” “You are a complete enigma to me. Mr. from the audience of the U.S. District Court m Noel. I mean you’ve lived your life, you ye Kalamazoo where the sentence took place. done everything right, and then you commit, Noe) had ( . if the government is to be believed, three bank According to an indictment handed down t by a fedcraf grand jury on Jan. 16. Noel stole robberies,*’ Kent said that bank robbers are “typically $3,922 from the Chemical Bank at 303 Arlington Si. in Middleville. «,M5 fram‘he the most pathetic defendants I represented as Lake Michigan Credit Union at 2636 -Wth St. a lawyer and that I have seen as a judge. Noel did not fit that profile. SW in Wyoming on Feb. 14 of last year; and He tried to speak in court Monday and $13,922 ‘from the Lake Michigan Credit Union at 675 68th St. SW in Byron Township struggled to do so. “First. I want to apologize to the victims; I on June II. 2019. want lo apologize to my family. What I did Noel was arrested at his home on Nov. 27. the criminal activity - was w rong. I acknowl­ one day after the robbery occurred. After he pleaded guilty to lhe charges, U.S. edge that. It was oul of character. “There were circumstances,” he said halt­ attorneys recommended 46 to 57 months in ingly. “I didn’t believe I had family support. I prison. But Maloney did something out of charac­ was in a different relationship.” He and his wife had been separated for a ter. He sentenced Noel to 36 months instead. few ’ years "and I didn’t believe 1 had that fam­ Noel did not fit lhe profile of a bank robber, ily support.” the judge and attorneys agreed. Noel said he has lhe family support now. He got involved in a relationship dial was “an absolute disaster” for him. his attorney, with his wife and two sons there for him. Maloney said that, in sentencing, he had to David Kaczor, said. 'The money Noel earned was not sufficient take into account the traumatic events and the to obtain the drugs his partner needed. Kaczor victimization of bank employees and custom­ ers. said. "You got a break here today. ’ Judge He had what the court called “a great Maloney told Noel. "... and that’s because employment history.” He worked at Dayton Freight in Byron I’ve got some confidence in you.” Center from 2002 until close to the lime of his Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads • Traditional and Cremation Services . Preplanning Services Z . w v •< £*-1 -k(hviK-r Mana ger • Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible • Serving All Faiths • Pre-arrangcmcnt Transfers Accepted 328 Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 269-945-3252 • www.girrbachfuncralhomc.net Family Owned and Operated Serving Hastings. Barn Count) ami Surrounding ( (immunities tor 50 wars Worship Together Geraldine Christine Kuzava, age 81. of Hastings, passed away September 30.2020. Gem was bom on April 20, 1939 in W. Conshohocken, PA, the daughter of Anthony and Sara (Siuchta) Pnisinowski. She attended Conshohocken High School, graduating jn 1957 and attended Montgomery School of Nursing, graduating in I960, with a registered nurse degree. Gerri married Bernard Kuzava on October 14, 1961 and together enjoyed 59 years of marriage. Gerri worked as an operating room nurse for seven years, and a high school nurse in Richmond. Virginia for six years. Her greatest passion was being the owner and operator of ICS Travel, Inc. in Hastings for 34 years. Gerri was an accomplished seamstress and she especially loved caring tor her children, grandchildren and traveling. She was preceded in death by her parents, Anthony and Sara Pnisinowski. brother, John and sister. Loretta. Gerri is survived by her husband, Bernard Kuzava; son,Bernard Jr. (Katherine) Kuzava of Tampa, FL; daughter. Susan (David) Baum of Hastings; son. David Kuzava of Las Vegas. NV; nine grandchildren; one great grandson and 11 nieces and nephews. In lieu ot flowers, memorial contributions to Alzheimer’s Foundation (www.alzfdn.org) or Serenity Village Barry' County Palliative Care Home (icrenitybc.org), would be appreciated. A; A Memorial seMce was held at St. Rose of Lima Church, 805 S. Jefferson St., Hastings, on Monday, Oct. 5, 2020. Entombment took place at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Hastings. Celebration of Life Social at The Legacy of Hastings was held. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralliome.net. ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of Who Jesus Is To The World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy.. P.O. Box 8. Hastings. Telephone 269-945­ 9121. Email hastfinefo gmail. coni. Website: www.hastings frreniethodi<t coin. Pastor Bnan Teed. Student Mini sines Director. Emma Miller. Worship Director, Martha Stoetze!. Sunday Morning Worship: 9am and 10:30 a m beginning June 21 until further notice. Due to the current health crisis, our nursery is temporarily closed and we are temporarily suspending all Children’s ministries. Our church sanctuary is set up for social distancing. We do not requite wearing masks, but do encourage it, especially while walking through lhe building before and after services. Please keep sour family together during the worship service. We arc a multi generational church family and understand dial while this could mean outbursts or potty­ breaks. w e are not incon v enienerd by your little one. In an effort to help }ou, we are presiding weekly activity bags for each child These bags arc to be taken home or disposed of after each ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. 269-945 4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip. Mass 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Mass 8 and 11 a.m. Sunday. 301 E Slate Rd.. P.O. Box 273. Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Wcbsite: www.Iifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.in. Sunday School for al! ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m Wednesday. Family Night 6:30-8 pan.. Kids 4 Truth (Children Kindergarten-5th Grade). 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coals Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel-chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway. Hastings, Ml 49058. Phone' 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 :un. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 765, (comer of Milo Rd. & S. M-43). Delton, Ml 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool. (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11:30am, Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prave'r lime 6:30 lo 7:30 pm. ' 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616 690-8609. T/iir information on worship senice is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Travis Michael Williams, age 42, of Vermontville, passed away September 24. 2020. Travis was bom on November 10, 1977 in Battle Creek, the son of Michael Williams and Ginnie Shale. Travis gn5w ’ in thc Lacey, area and attended Hastings High School. He enjoyed the outdoors, and loved to hunt, fish and spend time with those he loved. He was a real handyman and loved to work on cars. Fravis was precejed in death by his grandfather. Ronald Williams; grandmother, Colleen Shaft ‘and stepbrother. Freddie Neely. is Revived by his father. Michael Williams of Rtmus- mother. Ginnie Shale of Lake|and ri' daughter, Monique Williams of Hastings; son.Tannon Williams: daughter, TaylongWilliams of Nashville: Jli.,crs. Leisa Williams of Battle Creek. Michelle W'lr ■ °f Grandville; grandmother \i, "r* Williams of Lacey; XX Travis 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 ™^r!Vcd anolher an^cl on Monday OU. 5. 2020. Mrs. Janice "Jan” Elliston, age 71. of Delton passed away at the Spectrum Health Butterworth Campus, in Grand Rapids. Jan was bom in Holland, on November 14 1948. the daughter of the late Marvin and Henrietta Berens. She was raised in the Hamilton area and attended local schools graduating from Hamilton High School in 1967. On April 22. 2000. Jan was married to Mr. Janies Elliston in Greenville, and the couple made their home together in lhe Delton area. Jan and Jim enjoyed spending summers camping al Selkirk Lake in Shelbyville, and most importantly spending time with family and friends. She also had a fascination with bird watching. Jan’s love of people was evident in her work as she spent her career as a server at The Bunker Hill Restaurant in Bumips. Hawk’s Nest in Hamilton. Denny’s in Holland, and Schooner’s in Holland. Jan enjoyed caring for her children, and while they were growing, she never missed a sporting event or activity they participated in. During her early years, many summers were spent playing softball in local leagues. She was also in many bowling leagues. She was an avid card player, and when the grandchildren were around, it didn’t matter what she was playing - il was a source of true enjoy merit. Jan is survived by her beloved husband, James "Jim” Elliston; four sons, Chad Burch. Shawn (Cheri) Burch. Shannon (Annette) Burch. Shane (Julie) Burch; two brothers. Merle (Lois) Berens, Harv (Harriet) Berens; 23 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Jim’s sister Rosie Murphy of Nashville has also been a rock for Jim during these difficult days. Funeral services will be held at the Daniels Funeral Home. Nashville, at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 11. 2020. The family will receive visitors prior to lhe funeral service beginning at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Jan will be laid to rest at Fort Custer National Cemetery in a private family ceremony. Immediately following the funeral service, there will be an “old fashion" picnic style luncheon on the lawn at the funeral home. Bring a lawn chair and stay for fellowship while we celebrate Jan’s life on a beautiful fall day. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to lhe Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville. For further details please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net Dennis Lyn Whitney, age 62 of Middleville, passed away on September 23. 2020. u Dennis "Denny” was born on October 8. 1957 in Battle Creek, lhe son of Lynwood and Hazel (Reneau) Whitney. He was a 1976 graduate of Hastings High School. Dennis was a third generation electrician at Whitney Electric Service as well as several impactful years at Cavalier Electric Inc, Balkema Electric. Geniac Electric Inc and R&B Electric. He was very passionate and dedicated to his work. He will always be cherished as an honest, hardworking, ethical man with a strong moral compass. He will be remembered for his superb pitching and golf skills, his many jokes and how he was always making people laugh, his math lessons at the dinner table and his love for cookies. As a child and young man. he enjoyed camping, riding dirt bikes, fishing in the summer and winter months, snowmobiling and spending time with family in Dublin. He loved his family; his life lessons will be cherished in many generations to come. Dennis was preceded in death by his parents Lynwood "Skeeter” and Hazel "Jean” Whitney. He is survived by his four children. Timothy (Julie Huynh) Whitney. Alison (Bryan Haskins) Whitney. Carter (Makenzie) Whitney, Shannon Whitney; grandchildren Jalen. Jordan, Maxwell, Palmer. August, Camden, Brooklyn, sister Deb (Scott) Daniels; half siblings, Marcia Ives, Terry Weiler, and several nieces, nephews and cousins. A celebration of life service will be held on Sunday, Oct. 11. 2020 al 1 p.m. at Country Chapel UMC, 9275 M-37. Dowling. MI 49050 with interment to follow at Dowling Cemetery. 7325 S M-37 Hwy., Dowling. Michigan. A memorial luncheon to follow at Olde Towne Tavern, 114 S Jefferson St.. Hastings, MI 49058. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuncralhorne.net. 2601 Lacey Road. Dow line. Ml 49050. Pastor. Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone Sunday Service: 10 im. use 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 Dennis LynWh^ ___ ^eraldlne Christine Kuzaua 1301W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 -- ‘ousi,,s’ ?V?‘ son, father, brother. Respecting iv‘"-Wishes. cremation has L“,;Cn Pla* iriaHen ice will be n 1“ “ la'e. dme ft” ft“nil> anJ rrien<ls' I hank you . «ate । donated to ‘he family i]'’?eryone who ... ^Bemem '."^'“Xu-h Funeral Home. 10 lc:,v' an l,M’>'(,'r^enee. visit www. gtnbachfu,,, Unhne com11 '"Mhome.net ^CHIC.X'' Deputy Clerk/ Utility Billing Clerk The Village of Middleville is seeking a qualified applicant to serve in a combined administrative role as Deputy Clerk and Utility Billing Clerk. This is a flexible part-time or full-time position, 30 or 40 hours per week. Full-time is eligible for benefits. Hourly wage $15. Interested applicants must submit a resume, cover letter and completed Village of Middleville employment application in a sealed envelope marked ATTN' Village Manager-Deputy Clerk/UB Clerk Position. Open until filled. A complete job description and application are available at the Village ofltce at 100 East Main Street, Middleville Michigan, 49333 and at i^^lla^ofinid^ ’ �Th*? Hastings Banner — Thursday. October 3, 2020 — 7 fl look back at the stories and columns on local history In the Hastings Banner turning BACK THE PAGES Early female entrepreneur inspired during lecture Pauline McOmber turned talent into enterprise, twice The writer has given a history of presentday industrial institutions in Hastings; also of others, like the Hastings Wool Boot Company and lhe Michigan Whip Company, which passed out of existence. But there is another industry that should be mentioned because the story is unique, and because it should be encouraging, especially to young people. This factory is not now in Hastings but flourishes in another city. Its beginning and development were here and were so exceptional that 1 believe readers of the Banner will welcome this story as part of the history of Hastings manufacturing institutions. ‘Acres of Diamonds* There was operated here for several years a successful manufacturing business, which was started as the result of an inspiration given its founder, then Miss Pauline Schultz, now Mrs. Pauline McOmber. This inspiration came while she was listening on the evening of Jan. 26. 1896. to that famous platform speaker and orator. Rev. Russell H. Conwell of Philadelphia, who then gave here his most noted lecture on “Acres of Diamonds.” He spoke in thc Hotel Barry auditorium, which vanished long ago. His appearance here was a part of a winter program fostered by the Hastings Women's Club, of which Mrs. Clement Smith was then president. Miss Schultz, then a young lady employed by Mr. and Mrs. Julius Russell in their dry7 goods store, had invented a skirt pad, secured a patent on it, and her employers had encouraged her to display and sell it during business hours in their store. They allowed her to retain whatever profit she could make. They did this to help her earn some extra money. She had had not thought of developing a business for herself. To make these pads fused just below the waist on the back side of thc skirt], which she sold at the Russell store, she had employed two women who operated foot-power sewing machines in the Schultz home (on East Center Street]. As Miss Schultz listened to Dr. Conwell that night, she felt that the lecture was a personal appeal lo her to build an enterprise for herself. It gave her just the encouragement she needed to accomplish something worthwhile wilh her invention. So, soon after the lecture, she added a few’ more fool-power machines and operators and began manufacturing on a small scale under the name of P. Schultz and Company. She employed a saleslady to call on lhe dry goods trade in Michigan and introduce her line, for she had added several other items. Soon she had 10 foot-power sewing machines in operation. Erect McOmber Building Success came quickly. She soon needed more machines and operators. These crow’ded her home, and she was forced to look for a new location where she could install pow’er machines and employ a larger force of workers. Accordingly, the rented rooms on three floors of thc old National Bank building, and employed sales ladies enough to cover 10 states. Soon these quarters were too small. Then she and Mr. McOmber, to whom she was married in 1902. erected a good-sized building at 321 W. Court St., which she used as a factory and operated until [about 1909], because of impaired health, she had to sell the business she had built up. Wright Bros., who then had a dry goods store here, were the purchasers. They continued its operation locally for a while, then moved the business to Grand Rapids. Mrs. McOmber, having regained her health, became eager to re-enter lhe business. So. in January 1910, she bought the Chas. II. Osborn factory on East Court Street, and the business was continued under that name. Mrs. McOmber added a large line of accessories, several designs being covered by patents. From 50 to 60 people were employed there, and lhe business prospered. But in September 1919, her health having failed again, she found it necessary to dispose of the business, which was purchased by Robert T. Walton, secretary of the Kalamazoo Corset Company. Mr. Walton moved to Hastings and operated the business here very successfully until 1934. Then the directors of the Kalamazoo company asked him to again take charge of lheir manufacturing business in Kalamazoo. As an extra inducement, the company gave him ample room in its large factory building in which to carry on the Chas. H. Osborn company business, which is successfully operating there. Forced to sell business Our readers can well understand what a disappointment it was for Mrs. McOmber to be forced by poor health to sell this business in 1919, after she had increased the line to more than 100 items, and the business had grow n so much that at lhe time of the sale, she was operating lhe plant at full capacity and was several months behind on filling orders. It was a matter of pride with her that she had retained her original customers during her entire connection with the business. No one would be warranted in concluding lhat the fine success won by Mrs. McOmber was as easy as it reads. She had problems to solve and difficulties lo overcome while her business was growing from two foot-power machines to 60 power machines. The growth also required a large investment in building, equipment and materials. When Mrs. McOmber was first asked if she would be willing to have lhe Banner give this brief history, she was quite reluctant to permit it. Because the business she founded and successfully carried on is not now operating in Hastings. However, she did An only cuhl,d’P^u,ine Schultz McOmber married m her mid-i930s and had no chj|. dren ol her own. However, many women and families enefited from not only the products she pa enied and her company made, but also rom the income and inspi­ ration she provided. H Pauline Schultz and John McOmber built their home at 328 W. Court St. Their first factory building was across the street. successfully a manufacturing business. She undoubtedly could and would have made it a much larger success but for the failure of her health. The important thing about this story, as the writer sees it. is that people in smaller communities should realize that there are opportunities in smaller towns that, when properly appreciated, offer opportunities for success in business and that such success can be won. even w ith limited finances. That was true of Mrs. McOmber. Faith, hard work and sound business judgment can win success in a town like Hastings as well as in larger cities. That was proven in this case, as well as by other successful manufacturing and business ventures in this city. consent to our telling the story because she hoped it might encourage someone else to believe in the possibility of success' in developing a worthwhile business. I She said she had been asked by several people at different times how she was able to start a business in her home. She hoped her experience in doing it might be helpful to someone else who may be discouraged, and who has the mistaken notion that a lot of capital is necessary to start a venture in the business world. She conceded that capital will bring quicker financial returns, but she was satisfied The late Esther Walton wrote about to go slowly with small profits. By keeping thc same customers year after year, by giving McOmber in September 1984, contributing good values, she found great satisfaction and additional information. Pauline was bom in Germany Jan. 21. happiness in carrying on the business, which 1867, the only child of Albert (1945-1921) she would have been glad to continue, had her health permitted. Her idea was to seek and Augusta Ziiz.ke (1846-1906) Schultz. The relatively small profits on individual articles, family moved ro the U.S. in 1871, living most thereby increasing her trade, expecting lhat a of the rest of their lives in Hastings. At the modest profit on a large volume would be time of lhe 1880 U.S. Census, they were sufficient lo satisfy her. That plan worked to living in Hastings Township. By 1900, the family resided on East Center Street. her satisfaction. ’l he 1900 census lists her dad’s occupation Happy temperament as a laborer in a skirt factory . Pauline, 33. is While the material profit her business had listed as a skirt supporter manufacturer. earned would not have satisfied people who Pauline married John A. McOmber Aug. want big results speedily, she said il was her 9. 1902. They’were both in lheir mid-30s, and temperament to be happy in being able to live this was the first and only marriage for both of comfortably, without necessary worries over them. finances. She said she would not have been John McOmber had become manager of content in lhe year 1916, her most prosperous her factory, yybicli she continued lo call the P. year, when her factory was months behind on ■ Schultz Contp'hriy/l 7“ “ ‘ .• orders, to have stepped out of the business she In 1902-1^)3, they built large structure at had built up. had her health permitted her lo 321 W. Court St., now vacant property and continue. She said the best thing about her part of a proposed planned unit development. experience in manufacturing was lhat she The building’s main floor was devoted to the enjoyed lhe work and was happy in it. factory', and the second floor was used for While the business was profitable, she did residences. not make a large fortune, but did accumulate The factory appears to have been across enough to enable her to live comfortably in lhe street from the large home the McOmbers her later years without financial worries. built al 328 W. Court St. Her father, and Mrs. McOmber's large circle of friends possibly her mother, was well, later would were and are very sorry lhat failing health move in with Pauline and her husband. obliged her to dispose of the thriving business After Pauline’s health failed and she sold she had built up on her own initiative and the first business to Wright Bros., a similar efforts. She had proven her ability to design factory began. C.H. Osborn built a small and to make a line of goods that were manufacturing plant al 139 E. Court St., what attractive to the women of this country. She is now a city parking lol across from Razor’s had demonstrated that she could carry on Edge. This company designed novelties for ladies’ wear. Osborn later sold the business to Messers. Jximbard and Lahr and Pauline and John McOmber, Mrs. McOmber having regained her health. In January 1910. the McOmbers bought out their partners and continued the business, which then consisted of the manufacture of brassieres, corset accessories and other women’s novelties. The McOmbers retained thc name, and the Chas. H. Osborn Company grew under tlteir management, with 50 to 60 employees. She added a large line of accessories, several of which were covered by her patents. Pauline outlived her husband by 20 years, he dying at age in 1929 and she in 1949. She spent the rest of her life in the house they had built. Having no children, she left the bulk of her estate lo friends, Esther Walton wrote in 1984, after interviewing Pauline McOmber’s long-time friend Sadie (Glasgow) Vedder. and to the Methodist Education Advancement Fund. Though a native of Germany. Pauline was adamant that the business remain in Hastings. Both times, after selling her companies, that promise was fulfilled for a few years, at least. The first venture was moved to Grand Rapids and became part of the Coronet Corset Company, being merged with a company of lhe same name from Jackson. The second business, which remained in Hastings for 15 years before being relocated, became part of lhe Kalamazoo Corset Company. Vedder had told Walton lhat McOmber had been extremely disappointed when lhe businessT.was relocated. Perhaps, as long as the enterprise was here. McOmber believed it could better serve as an example for other enterprising young women. For several years, a corset and information about the factories was part of a display at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum. The interactive exhibit also challenged guests lo lace up a corset before a timer buzzed. The exhibit was removed and put in storage when the history gallery was remodeled in 2010. KVM collections manager Regina Gorham said Tuesday. Compiled by Kathy Maurer, copy editor. Sources: Hastings Banner. Kalamazoo Valley Museum, FamilySearch.org, burry. migenweb.org. 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Hastings • 945-9673 ntt »4 ■« I L * : V S •'SMjxv ip? ( Huist ClMj]ej^F[cl(4Jp^Station 1 AmericanMetalRoofs.com �Area businesses receive grants to relieve COVID-19 impac ... Nearly 40 Barn County small businesses and nonprofits impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic were awarded $335,000 in grants through the Michigan Small Business Restart Program last week. The Michigan Economic Development Corp, announced these recipients among more than 11300 small businesses and nonprofits across thc stale that received more than $69 million in funding through the grant program. The program was launched to provide relief for small businesses hurt by the pandemic. “Over the past six months, small business entire lives sacrifices to protect tneir rnVIDour brave frontline workers from, CO 19." Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said. I kno» " hasn't been easy, which is why we re working around the clock to provide support for our small business owners. d-cmk • The Michigan Small Business Restart Program is providing much-need^ relief to those small businesses and nonprofits hardest hit by lhe impact of COVID-19 as they work to recover from the pandemic.’ Barry County grant recipients include: / -Allen AllenTrench TrenchSaf sar«..,Corp. Dowling, . Dowling, Ass Assyria Townshin. S in nnn >r’a Township, $10,000 $10,0003 ' “ GUM Athletics Inc., Middleville, $10,000 I . Allison’s Cleanin„ and Personal Core, “ T™v<-*1 Grace Vacations, Delton, $8,000 $10,000 h nnd r - Grimsby Hollow Mendcry, Middleville, J - Barry' Broadcastinp Co, Hastings. $10,OCX) $10,000 ng ■ Hastings Nail Spa, $7,813 - Barry Cleaners, Ha.rin«e $7,000 - JBM Automation, $10,000 . BJ's Quality Aul $10,000 - Jefferson Personal Training, $IOXXX) . Casa Pintun, LLC, Mj(ld eVj|le. SlOjOOO - DcsignWear, Middleville, $10,000 . Circle Pines Centcr $ 10.000 - KR Designs, Delton. $7,000 . Dicks Used Cars, . $ 10.000 siowo" F,dd Coffce Roastcrs’ Middleville, . Fraternal Ordcr .,•Ellflcs 3782, Woodland. $5,000 ' of |5*B - Love & Care Home Healthcare. $7300 . Country Fever Dance Ranch LLC, - Luther Ventures. $10,000 ci BARRY COUNTY DRAIN COMMISSIONER CLEAR LAKE DRAIN NOTICE OF LETTING AND DAY OF OF DMNACE DISTRICT BOUNDARIES AND REVIEW OF APPOR1IONMEN IS NOTICE of LETTING Thursday. October 15, 2020 DATE: 1:00 p.m. TIME: Barn County Drain Commissioners Office LOCATION: 220 W State Street Hastings Michigan 49058 (269) 94.M385 QUESTIONS: the above date, time and location to receive construction bids for the Clear Lake 1 hr Barry* County Drain Commissioner will meet on l>ain Bids will tlicn be opened and publicly announced. . . . .1.. un0th nvernce denth in,i . lhe Clear Lake Dram will be let in one aection(s) as follows, each section having 8^ • width as set Clear Lake Extension Drain: Approximately 1,300feet in length and comprised ° pUmf> slation. The Enclosed Drain Construction 8M STM SWR. Directional Dnll 4" S IM SWR. Directional Drill 8" Perf. STM SWR w/ Sock 12” Perl*. SIM SWR w/ Sock J 8" STM SWR MOOT R-86-F End Section w-/ Grate 7-foot Diameter Manhole 4-foot Diameter Manhole 4-foot Diameter Manhole w' Turndown 4-foot Leach Basin 8” Cleanout L.F. LF. L.F. L.F. LF. EA. EA. E.A. LA EA. EA. 830 304 350 100 20 I 1 1 1 ■? 3 Soil EroMon and Sediment Cvnlnd 1 LS. Site Restoration 500 S.Y. Mulch Blanket 35 SY Riprap LS. LS. LS. EA F.A. Mobilization (5% Max.) Utility Coordination Site Clearing 4” Backflow- Preventer Fiberglass Pump Chamber inle. Electrical Connections (Pump Chamber Designed and Provided by Others) Concrete Generator Pad 20 Kw Kohler Generator Miscellaneous 1 1 1 I 1 SF. 25 EA. I This Notice of I jetting, thc plans, specifications and bid proposal shall be considered a part of the Contract. Thc Contract till he let in accordance with thc Contract Documents now on file at Barry County Drain Commissioner’s Office and available lo Melted parties. Bids will be made and received in accordance with these documents. Bidding Documents, including plans and spcc^cahons, may be examined at the following Locations; Barry Count)’ Drain Commissioner 220 IV State Street Hastings, Michigan 49058 Copies of Bidding Documents may only be obtained upon payment of a $25.00 noH-nfundable deposit. An additional non-nfundable charge of S10 00 will be required for sending out Bidding Documents. Bidding Documents may also be obtained at no cost by emailing a request to mcnc.irvIliV/ IrcniLConi A pre-bid meeting will be held nt 9:00 a.m. on Thursday. October 8, 2020 at the Barry County Courthouse, Commissioners Chambers, 220 W State Street, Hastings, Michigan, 49058. Thc Engineer will be present to discuss the project Prospective bidders are required to attend and participate in the conference. All bidders must sign In by mime of attendee and business represented. Only bids from bidders In attendance at the pre-bid conference will be opened. All others will be considered non-rcsp<»nsivc. A security deposit in the form of a cashier's check, money order, certified check or bidders bond sluill be submitted with any bids. No cash will be permitted The security deposits of all unsuccessful bidders shall be returned alter thc Contract is awarded. lhe Contract will be awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder giving adequate security for thc performance of the work and meeting all conditions represented in thc Instructions to Bidders. Thc Contract completion date and the terms of payment will be announced at the time and place of letting. If no satisfactory bids are received, we reserve the right to reject any and ail bids Screen Printing, Delton, - Milk and Quackcrs. $5,750 - Moxie Life Organizing LLC, $10,000 - Nikki’s Concessions and Catering, Hastings, $10,000 _ “ ^bble Creek Produce, Caledonia. $10,000 - Phillips Nook LLC, $10,000 “ Recovery Services Unlimited Inc., SlOjOOO - Richie’s Koffec Shop Inc.. Hastings, $10,000 H - River City Grant Writing, Middleville, $3,750 b $10* Stitchcrafts, Orangeville Township, - Sandy Flats Farm LLC, Middleville, SlOjOOO - Sandy’s Country Kitchen, Middleville, $7,800 • Tujax Tavern, Delton, $10,000 - Meadow Run Holistic Counseling, Hastings, SlOjOOO - WBPB Corp., Hastings. $10,000 - Whatadog LLC, $10,000 - Yonkers Tours LLC, Woodland, $3,686 “This program puts federal funding to work for Michigan’s small businesses and builds on additional COVID-19 business relief efforts offered by the MEDC to create a strong foundation for Michigan’s long-term economic recovery,” Whitmer said. Approved in July, the Michigan Small Business Restart Program allocated SI00 million of federal CARES Act funding to provide support to Michigan’s small businesses and nonprofits that are reopening and have experienced a loss of income as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. Thc funding was distributed across 15 local or nonprofit economic development organizations, covering all 83 counties in the state for grunts up to S20.000 to support certain small businesses and nonprofits that have realized a significant financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Right Place, based in Grand Rapids, was the organization hat distributed the grants in Barry County. As of Sbpt. 10. more than $69 million in grants have been awarded, with all remaining grants lo be awarded by Sept. 30 and reported by mid-October. Drain Name Clear Lake Drain US Municipality Johnstown Township | Portions of Sections-------- Portions of Sections Added | .28.29.31 n U u 4.5.6 • ~~ ------- Redyed _ -------------------- 3.4 f'/MYMTVKCinni I yiuau uuu sum nicmocrs win nc available to assist individuals throughout the dav -md make revisions where necessary Dierc is no need to schedule an appointment for a specific time on the Dav of Review-. Thc (imnntnticn ol CO.-U for thc Dram will also be available at thc Day of Review. Drain twessmenls are collected in the same manner.. „Zettv taxes and will appear on your wmter tax bill. If dram assessments are being collected for more than one (I) year you .he assessment in full with any inleiest to date at any time and avoid further interest charges. ’ Persons wilh disabilities needing accommodations for eflretive participation in thc Day of Review should conta .x nrdn Commissioner s Olliee at the phone number listed above (voice) or through the Michigan Relay Centcr at 7-1-1 (TOn , , hours in advance of tl>c Day of Review to request mobility, visual, hearing or oilier assistance. 'at ,CUSt ’ You may appeal lhe Drain Commissioner’s daision to revise the district boundary to the Bany County Circuit Court wi.k• /1m days, and you may also appeal lhe detenuination of apportionments to the Barry County Probate Court within ten (10) lC"( ' lhe following is a description of the several tracts or parcels of lands constituting thc Special Assessment District oftk ™ Drain, us well as a list of any county, township, city, village to be assessed nt large: c*ear I,ake Bdtimnrv Towii^hlnaJ^N* RWiWJUrixEtfUiitY. Michigan Section 29 - lhe South 1/2 of the Southeast 1/4. Section 28 The Section 31 - The Section 32 1 he of thc Northwest South 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4; The South 1/2 of lhe Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4 East 1/2 of tile Southeast 1 /4 of the Northeast 1/4; Thc East 1/2 of the Southeast 1 /4 South 1/2 of thc Northwest 1/4, Northeast 1/4, Tlw Southeast 1/4, Southwest 1/4- l he East 1/2 oftk . 1/4. ' Nonhcasl 1^ Section 33 ■ /Ml Section 34 Thc West 1/4 of thc Northwest |/4; lhe West 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4. Johnxtonn Township. TOlN.KOHWxBxrrY County. Michigan Section 3 Section 4 Section 5 Section 6 - lhe Northwest 1/4. T)»e North 1/2, The North 1/2 of the Southwest 1/4. lhe North 1/2: The North 1/4 of thc Southeast 1/4. lhe East 1/2 of thc Northeast 1/4 I he Jollowing County. Townships, Cities, and Villages liable for ut large Assessment* Bsury County JJulumorc Township Jolmsloun Township Michigan Department ol Transportation \ Dated: September 25,2020 14X438 Jun Dull Mi-viionri _in aw;ird> l0 Of the ()wned.4365 date. 3^)30 reported rcported reported as *‘’"I“n 0 I *^ * Chd,s<)mC businesses as vcteran-ownvt’’ . selecting multiple fun(js awarded At least 30 percent of tb - « under the program wl . owned Provided s. and all or veteran-owned ehfeiotc i . this arc on track to meet, requirement in the awards be.ng made, officials said. Business Restart Pro^i^&-^T^ tasin^TaniTon^ofits as they work to recover from the impacts of. 5°™^ MFDC Chief Executive Officer . Burton said. “We are proud lo "<’**■* economic development partners to del ve these vitnl financial resources andI create . path toward economic recovery • • businesses throughout Michigan. The grants under lhe Michigan Smal Business Restart Program may be used as working capital to support payroll expense.. rent, mortgage payments, utility expenses or other similar expenses. To qualify for grant support, based on statutory requirements for the program, recipients had to be a business or nonprofit with fewer than 50 employees; demonstrate it is affected by the COVID-19 emergency, need working capital to support eligible expenses; and demonstrate an income loss as a result of the CO VID-19 emergency. Selected economic development organizations were responsible for reviewing applications of small businesses in their region and ultimately determining grant awards through the program. The program is modeled after the Michigan Small Business Relief Program, approved on March 19 by the Michigan Strategic Fund to support small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. The program consisted of a total of 520 million aimed at supporting businesses in need of immediate relief. The program included S10 million that was distributed to 15 local economic development organizations to provide grants up to $10,000 to certain small businesses impacted by COV1D-I9. Additionally, the program authorized $10 million for small business loans of not less than $50,000 and not more than $100,000 to eligible borrowers impacted by COVID-19 that were not able to seek alternative, suitable financing. Prior to last week’s announcement, the MEDC had launched 19 CO VID-19 relief and recovery programs expected to support up to 10,000 businesses in lhe stale and helping to retain more than 21,000 jobs across all 83 counties. Provided by the Barry County oJJJcesqfEdward Jones Kevin Beck, AAMS® thc l.uids by section number proposed lo be added or deleted from the Drainage District is as follows: Michigan workers Financial FOCUS Ri and to adjourn to a time and location as we shall announce. nAYPERE.VIEW OF DRAINAGE DISTRICT BOUNDARIES AND REVIEW OF APPORTIONMENTS DATE: Wednesday, October 28,2020 TIME: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 pan. LOCATION: Barn County Drain Commissioner’s Office 220 W State Street Hastings, Michigan 49058 QUESTIONS: (269) 945-1385 lhe Barry County Drain Commissioner will hold a Day of Renew of Drainage District Boundaries and Review ofApportionments on the above date, time end location. The Day of Review is an opportunity to review the Drainage District boundaries and apportionment of benefits for the Drain wilh the Drain Commissioner or a stalfmcmbcr. A map of thc proposed Drainage District boundary revisions can be found on Barry County s website at: ^3(iy£<lUlUX<?IOl’bJj£jllik^ A general description of State official; s<> have been through these initial l-M Member SIPC ',c,,,uc'J,rv 400 W. State St, Suita B Hastings, Ml 49050 (269) 945-4702 Andrew Cove, AAMS® 421 W. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-3553 Can you influence your financial aid award? Right now, the pandemic is causing chaos and uncertainty for colleges and students. But it won’t always be that way. And if you have children who will be heading off to school in thc next few years, you’re probably thinking about more typical concerns - such as expenses. How will you pay for the high costs of higher education? Most colleges do offer financial aid packages that can greatly help with these expenses. But it pays to know, well in advance, how* financial aid works. And the key platform for determining much of your child’s financial aid is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). In fact, if you have children starting college next year, now is the time to get going on the FAFSA, which became available Oct. 1 for the 2021-22 award year. Filling out your FAFSA will provide you with what’s known as your Expected Family Contribution (EFC). Thc EFC calculation takes into account four separate areas: parent income, parent assets (excluding retirement funds, such as 4011 k) plans and IRAs. home equity and small family businesses), student income and student assets. The EFC does not calculate thc exact amount >ou must pay for college rather, it’s an estimate, and the amount you pay can be below or above this number. Nonetheless, the EFC is important in determining your financial aid package, and your actions can influence the results. Here are a feusuggestions for future years: • Save money In your name - not your child’s. FAFSA will just consider up to 5.64 percent of a parent’s assets, compared to 20 percent of a student’s assets. • Be aware of how retirement plan contributions can affect aid. Many of your current assets, such as accounts, your retirement may be excluded from thc EFC calculation. However, any voluntary contributions you make to your 401 (k) or traditional IRA during the “base’’ year (the prior tax year) generally must be reported on the FAFS/X and are counted as untaxed income; consequently, these contributions may have a similar effect on aid eligibility as taxable income. Mandatory contributions, such as those made by teachers to a state retirement system, are generally not reported on thc FAFSA. • Avoid withdrawals from your 401(k) or traditional IRA. The money you take out from these accounts in the y ears you fill out lhe FAFSA. and the prior tax year, may count as taxable income in the financial aid calculations. If you really need the money, you may want to consult with your financial professional fur alternatives. • Consider having children put earnings into a Roth IRA Money from after- school or summer jobs your children put in a Roth IRA may not be included in EFC - plus, your kids will gel a head start on a tax-advantaged retirement account. Keep in mind, though, that Roth IRA withdrawals could be considered as taxable income on the FAFS/X if lhe account owner is younger than 5916, which will be the case for vour children, or the account is less than five years old. Not all these suggestions w ill be appropriate for ever} one. but they’re worth thinking about. You might also want to consult with a college’s financial aid officer before >ou complete the FAFSA, as aid calculations can be complex. An investment of your time and effort early in thc process may pay off when the aid packages are finally delivered. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by wur local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. c.«!W:ini Joncs’ Member olPv Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisor, cannot Provide tax or legal advice. This content should not be depended upon tor other than broadlv infonnatronal purp0M.s. Yo’u should ronsult your am,mev or quahhed tax advisor regarding your snuation. Make = �Tho Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 0, 2020 State plan reverses cuts to school budgets Th) lor Owens Staff Writer Area school districts were facing down nuior euls t0 their funding earlier this year, but the state budget signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer Sept 30 restored funding back to its previous levels. ••We’re pretty thrilled with il, compared to what we were expecting.” Maple Valley Finance Director Darryl Sydloski said. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, schools were promised an $8,111 per pupil allowance for the 19-20 school year, but once the econo* my started to cum downward, .state officials said that amount may be cut by $650 for both 2019-20 and 2020-21. The 19-20 budget was ultimately cut by $175 per pupil, but the 20-21 budget restored the funding back lo the earlier-promised amount of $8.111 per pupil. Schools arc also getting an additional $65 per pupil, which appears to be available for districts to spend how they choose. -I am very, very pleased with it.” Delton Kellogg Finance Director Andrew Nuremberg said. “It’s quite a far cry from what we were hearing back earlier this year.” Sjdloski said the funding may mean Maple Valley can restore some of the budget cuts that were made over the summer. Like Delton Kellogg, Lakewood Public Schools opted to dig into lhe general fund balance, rather than make budget cuts, so the funding will go towards rebuilding a healthy fund balance, Superintendent Steven Skalka said. “We budgeted to cut into our fund balance by $1.1 million, and obviously that should not happen now,” Hastings Director of Operations Tim Berlin said. The district may look at restoring some positions lhat were cut in the next semester. Berlin said. “We had originally planned for a reduction in funding so this does improve the budget picture.” Thomapple Kellogg Schools Assistant Superintendent Craig McCarthy said. However, wc also have to deal wilh the increased costs associated with COVID-19.” While districts have been able lo cover many of their COVID-19 expenses with money from the federal Coronavirus Aid. Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. lhe costs have added up. McCarthy outlined the additional expenses many districts have faced in lhe past six months. “We have essentially set up a new school within a school. Thornapple Kellogg Virtual School.” McCarthy said. “As you can imag­ ine, there were additional costs associated with the creation of this instructional model. Start members were hired specifically for TKVS. Chromcbooks were assigned and dis­ tributed to students and thc online software, for both elementary and secondary instruc­ tion, was purchased.” “We have purchased a tremendous amount of personal protective equipment, disinfec­ tants, sanitizers, and disinfecting equipment,” McCarthy added. “We have hired additional staff to assist wilh lunch periods, as students are consuming their meals in their classrooms this year instead of the cafeteria ...Additionally, wc have hired custodial personnel to provide additional cleaning in our buildings. All of these items arc additional costs that will impact the budget.” While administrators say the federal stimu­ lus packages have kept economic disaster at bay, the) are still cautious about the future. “Whenever you look at state budgets, you lake a short and long view,” Skalka said. He recalled lhe financial recession of 2008, and said lhe major hit to school districts didn’t come until after the first couple years, when the federal stimulus efforts had passed. Sydloski said a resurgence in COVID-19 over the winter could cause another hit to the economy, and eventually school budgets. “Tilings change by lhe minute,” Sydloski said. TOWNSHIP OF JOHNSTOWN COUNTY OF HAHHY. MICHIGAN NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING AND FIllfNG OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ROLL MILL LAKE AQUATIC WEED AND PLANT CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 1 GIVEN that the Township Board of the Township of Johnstown, Hyyy । '2 res°Ivt< s lnlcniion to proceed on petitions filed with the Township to make certain pu ic i of the W ’cation of herbicide treatments for thc eradication or control of aquatic wee s an • •TinPrl’vtmcnls ) in the Township, has made its final determination of a special assessment is follo^0^ cabbed lots and parcels of land which are benefitted by thc Improvements an agai of the c0S 0 lhc Improvements shall be specially assessed: claims. That means nearly half of the slate’s workforce of 4.9 million has experienced some job disruption, ranging from furlough weeks to permanent job loss. News of the benefits extension comes as unemployment fraud once again is slowing payment to some jobless workers. Claims for at least 4(X),(XX) people in Michigan were delayed in summer as identity fraud plagued unemployment systems across the U.S. An estimated 900.(XX) people were eligible for an extra $300 for six consecutive weeks of payments starting Aug. I, but state officials said an increase in fraud attempts is keeping all of them from seeing lhe money. ‘The higher supplemental benefit attracts additional criminal attention and •unemployment agencies across the country remain under attack.” according to the state. At one point, 28,000 people were still "ailing to receive those benefits. Over the past (wo weeks, (hat number jumped to 80,(XX) because they were flagged by the system for identity verification. The 20-week extension expands payments for the unemployed far beyond pre-pandemic levels. Michigan used to otfer 20 weeks of unemployment through its regular program Paid from the Michigan Unemployment Trust Fund. Employers pay into lhat fund, and the s<aie has a formula for determining payments, lhe maximum benefit is $362 per week. The average weekly benefit amount in August was $298, or about $200 for people Mitt Lake (the consists of the ... a|| or a portion Mill l^c Aquatic Weed and Plant Control Special Assessment District No. 1 Lots Parcels Numbered: 09.040-019-00 09.040-020-00 o9.O4OO36-00 09.040 038-00 09-040-039 00 09-185-008-00 09-021-003-00 09-040-033-00 09-021-001-00 09-185-001-00 09-040-031-00 09-040-070-00 09-125-007-00 09425-022-00 09-040-007-00 09-021-028-00 09-040-060-00 09-040-018-00 09.040-040-00 09-040-041-00 09-085-006-00 09.040-081-00 09485-003-00 09-185-004-00 . 09-185-002-10 09-125-021-00 09-040-057-00 09-040-083-00 09-040-046-00 09-040-047-00 09-021-005-00 09-040-069-00 09-185-005-00 09-040-056-00 09-040-034-00 09-125-003-00 09-125-004-00 09-040-063-00 09-040-054-00 09-040-062-00 09-185-006-00 09-040-009-00 09-125-020-00 09-040-015-00 09-125-011-00 09-040-074-00 State unemployment benefits extended for some workers Bridge Magazine Some jobless workers in Michigan could qualify for up to 59 weeks of unemployment benefits due to a federal extension triggered by the state’s high unemployment rate because ofCOVlD-19. An additional 20 weeks of benefits are now possible for the laid-off workers who qualified for benefits through the state’s regular program paid from the Michigan Unemployment Trust Fund. Not eligible for the extension arc those who filed for benefits under the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance plan - such as self-employed, part-time or “gig” workers. The Federal Extended Benefits program kicks in when lhe slate’s unemployment rate averages 8 percent or higher for three consecutive months. That made the state eligible in July, even as the unemployment rate fell to a seasonally adjusted 8.7 percent, the same nite recorded in August. “The Extended Benefit program will provide a much-needed safely net for Michiganders who have exhausted lheir current benefits and are still dealing with the long-term effects of unemployment due to COVID-19,” Steve Gray, director of the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency, said in a news release. At least 2.3 million Michigan residents have applied for jobless benefits since March 15, collecting $24 billion in benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Another 93,000 are awaiting final processing or a decision on having r2iemenls consisting 09-040-075-00 09-125-001-00 09-125-002-00 09-040-048-00 09-040-061-00 09-040-011-00 09-040-043-00 09-021-006-00 09-040-076-00 09-040-073-00 09-040-050-00 09-040-004-00 09-040-006-00 09-040-051-00 09-040-044-00 09-125-010-00 09-085-003-00 09-185-001-10 09-185-002-00 09-125-006-00 09-085-001-00 09-021-004-00 09-021-026-00 09-021-027-00 09-085-007-00 09-040-028-00 09-0-40-055-00 09-040-080-00 09-085-002-00 09-021-029-00 09-040-005-00 09-125-008-00 09-125-023-00 09-125-024-00 09-040-027-00 09-125-018-00 09-125-014-00 09-125-015-00 09-125-016-00 09-125-016-01 09-040-001-10 09-125-005-00 09-125-025-00 09-125-012-00 09-040-072-00 09-125-017-00 09-125-009-00 09-040-042-00 09-040-071-00 09-085-005-00 09-040-003-00 09-021-007-00 09-040-052-00 09-125-019-00 09-040-058-00 09-040-077-00 09-040-078-00 09-040-053-00 09-125-026-00 09-185-007-00 09-021-002-00 09-040-082-00 09-040-012-00 09-040-067-00 09-040-023-00 09-040-029-00 09-040-049-00 09-040-059-00 f.lTHF Kill LAKE qualifying under PUA. As coronavirus spread. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer used Executive Order 2020-76 lo add six more weeks of compensation for workers with claims active as of March 15, and claims filed through April 18. People receiving “regular” jobless benefits also became eligible for the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation, which under thc federal CARES Act added 13 weeks of benefits. That means they would get 39 weeks of benefits, with the PEUC kicking in after the first 26 weeks of benefits are exhausted. However, any payments authorized by the CARES Act — either through the PUA or the 13-week extension period —could come lo a halt al the end of the. “The CARES Act is set to expire Dec. 31, and anyone receiving benefits on one of those programs, even if they have weeks remaining, will no longer receive them unless Congress extends it," Jason Moon, spokesman for thc UIA.said. HAVE YOU MET, continued from page 4 thought of the safely and wellbeing of others. A big accomplishment lor me: Learning to love myself. Favorite season and why: Spring and fall come in as a tie. Love the changes, the colors, lhe temperature and fewer bugs. What I’d tell a high school graduate: Never stop learning and change is good. If I were president: I would make this coun­ try safe for all people; young, old, rich, poor, healthy, sick, all colors, all religions, all life­ styles, all countries of origin. Favorite dinner: One someone prepares just for me. Greatest fear What will be left for my granddaughters. If I could change one thing: The world would be completely free of petroleum. An event that changed my life: The ten weeks I spent in Indonesia when I was in col­ lege and the death of my mother when I was in my fifties. What I like about my job: I’m retired and I have found that 1 can now give my time and creativity without having to worry about food on (he table and a roof over my head. The greatest President: Jimmy Carter because of what he has done since he was in office. When I grow up, I want to be: I’m mostly grown and I like what I am. I’m most proud of: My children. One is a lull-time organic farmer and the other is a veterinarian. What the world needs now is: Understanding consequences. If I won the lottery: Since I don’t play, this would be hard to happen. T he reason I don't play is. my feeling is. lhe money would be more trouble than it was worth. I am most content when: I’m enjoying the company of myself and my pets. | Boundary of Mill Lake Aquatic and Plant ControlSpeciai Assessment District | NOT . . ^^THER GIVEN THAT the Township Supervisor of lhe Township of Johnstown has made and certified a special assessment roll for the special assessment district, which roll sets forth the relative portion of lhe cost bf said Improvements which is to be levied in lhe form of a special assessment against each benefitted lot and parcel of lland in *?*,al assessment district. Pursuant to the resolution of the Township Board adopted on September 9,2020, the costs 0 e mprovemenls are to be periodically re-determined on a yearly basis in accordance with thc resolution. TAKr a^?k^E Ti,ATTHE TOWNSHIP BOARD OF THE TOWNSHIP OF JOHNSTOWN WILL HOLD A PUB­ LIC nru 14 ■>aT A REGULAR MEETING OF THE TOWNSHIP BOARD TO BE HELD ON WEDNESDAY. OCTOBLK k 2020, AT 7:00 P.M., OR SHORTLY THEREAFTER, AT THE TOWNSHIP HALL. 13641 S. M-37 HIGHWM. aATTLE CREEK. MICHIGAN. IN SAID TOWNSHIP, TO REVIEW THE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ROLL u HEAR AND CONSIDER ANY OBJECTIONS TIIERETO. :..^RIewfthu!eT^N0J.IC?.,h?,'he.1,^Cial assessment roll as prepared has been reported to lhe Township Board and is on fi c u e Township Clerk at the Township I lull for public examination. Notice that an owner or a party in interest in a lot or parcel of land ufcTi F MlrnfEC,AL ASSESSMENT MAY FILE A WRI TTEN APPEAL OF THE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT jyJVLl CPFCu,GAN tax TRIBUNAL WITHIN THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF CONF IRMATION iROTEST^ASSESSMENT R0LL* BUT ONLY IE SAID OWNER 0R PARTY ,N INTEREST APPEARS AND 1in inters Tl,E SPECIAL ASSESSMENT AT THIS HEARING. An appearance may be made by an owner or Part> . |ctfSl> Or his or her agent, in person or, in the alternative, an appearance or protest can be filed with thc Township / uer prior |Q thc hcafing jn whjch cas<j a appearanCe at the hearing is not required. 7 his • 4u,horized by the Township Board of the Township of Johnstown. Dated: September 9 2020 Sheri Babcock, Clerk Township of Johnstown Page 9 �Page 10 — Thursday, October 6, 2020 — The Hastings Bann»:» Two killed in head-on collision Nashville residents Heather Lynn Wright. ' 35. and David Jay Wright. 37, died alter a head-on collision on Last State Road near lhe Hastings City limits at 9:48 p.m. Saturday. Heather Wright was eastbound in a 2<XM •; Chevrolet Trailblazer. when il crossed the ! centerline and struck a westbound vehicle a 37-sear-old Allegan man. down b> • iiy Police Chief Jeff Pratt said I Hastings City vehicle, with David Heather Wright it. burst into Wright in the passing Both were declared dead at the scene. I’he three occupants ol the westbound vehicle, including a 2-yeai old. were exact!- .,ted from lhe Vchi . weie mken u, Sp^ ' I hey sulk red hljn Hastmgs e officers and Hmpillll. police said. ^ 'n^7sied by lhe State p(|- , Barry County She.ill s Office. ||.1stii.g.s City Fire Department ;,„d B. "sl"(?(llinty Central Dispatch. ‘,rr> v Michigan I EGAL NOTICES ? S * STATE OF MICHIGAN PR08ATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS •Q DECEDENT S ESTATE FILE NO. 20-28523-DE H Estate of Kathy Ann Bundy-PitHekow. Date of birth: 03/07/1955. TO ALL CREDITORS: , notice TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Kathy • Ann Bundy-Pittfekow. d;ed 05/04'2020. Cred.to^ of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Lindsey Schafer, personal representative. or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Sto. 302. Hastings. Ml 49058 and the persona! representative within 4 months after the date of pub’ication of this notice. Date: 10.01/2020 Steven G. Storrs P80557 202 Soutn Broadway Hastings. Ml 49058 (269) 945-2242 Lindsey Schafer 1110 East Colony Road Saint Johns, Ml 48879 148714 ’ STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENTS ESTATE FILE NO. 20-028444-01-DE Estate ol Iris A. Harrington. Date of birth: 9/10/1938 TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: Tho decedent. Ins A. Harrington, died 8/23/2019. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Scott Eighmoy personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street. Ste. 302, Hastings. Ml 490o8 and tho personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of tins notice. Date: 8'11/2020 Holly A. Jackson P71684 180 Monroe Avo. NW. Suite 400 Grand Rapids, Ml 49503 616-454-3700 Scott Eighmoy 628 Pearl Street Sparta. Wl 54626 608-567-9507 148955 8tate of Michigan pRobate court OOUtHY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITOR8 _ Oecedonfs Estate Fl|o No. 19-028227-01-DE raX^0’'61'*0’"994' NOTICE TO CREdjyqrs. The decedent. Brice M. DcJcngd/’d 05/262019. * Creditors of the decedent are notified that all c'aims against th& W||| M forever barred unless presented to Valerie Hubbert personal representative cr to both the prebate court at 206 West Court Street, Hastings, Ml 49953 ana personal representative within 4 months after date of publication of this notice Date: 10'02/2020 Valerio Hubbert 1110 Park St. Hastings, Ml 49058 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's TTust In the Matter of Nancy J. Nash Trust dated December 16. 2003. Date of birth: December 22. ;i927. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, ■‘blanch J. Nash, died September 9. 2020 leaving jttre above Trust in full force and effect. Creditors •/pf the decedent or against the Trust are notified Sthat all claims against the decedent or trust will forever barred unless presented to Thomas D. $Nash, Trustee, within 4 months after the date of ■^publication of this not.ee. >pate: October 1,2020 •Rhoades McKee PC •^Stephanie S. Fekkes P43549 % 50 W. Court Street. Ste. A -Hastings. Ml 49059 3269/945-1921 Thomas D. Nash e/o Rhoades McKee PC 150W. Court Street. Ste. A Hastings. Ml 49058 .(269)945-1921 ■ 148750 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act c! 1961,1951 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, that the fo”owing mortgage wiii be foreclosed by a sa'e of tne mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public . auction sale to the highest bdder for cash or cashier’s .check at the place cf ho'd.ng tne circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM. on November 5, • 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale ■ does not automabca’ly entitle the purchaser to free and • clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either c! which may charge a fee for this information: • , Name(s) of the mortgagors): Calvon Kidder and Alice Marvita Kidder, as Joint Tenants with Full Rights of , Survivorsh’p and Not as Tenants in Common Ong.na! Mortgagee: Financial Freedom Semor ' Funding Corporation, a Subsid'ary of IndyMac Bank, •F.S.B. Foreclosing Assignee (if anyj: Bank of New York -Mel'on Trust Company, N.A. as Trustee for Mortgage • Assets Management Series I Trust Date 0! Mortgage: October 5,2006 Date cf Mortgage Record Jig: October 17,2006 . Amount c'amed due on date cf notice: $124,902.62 • Description cf the mortgaged premises: Situated in Village of Wood'and, Barry County. Michigan, and described as: Lot 9 and the East 33 feet of Lot 8 of Block 10 of the Vib'age cf Woodland, accord ng to tne recorded 'Plat thereof Common street address (if any); 169 E Franklin St. Woodland, Ml 48897-9761 " The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a, or. if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by -MCL 690.3240(16). ‘ If the property is sc'd at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, ’ pursuant to MCL 600.3278 tha borrower will be held • responsible to the person wno buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure safe or to the mortgage holder for • damag ng the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner: If ycu are a m hlary service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has ■’ concluded less than 99 days ago. of if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for lhe party foreclosing the mortgage al tho telephone . number stated in this notice This notice is from a debt coVector. : Date 0? notice: September 24.2020 • Trott Law, PC. ’ 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 ’ Farmington Hite. Mi 48334 • (248) 642-2515 1421782 ‘(09-24X10-15) 14fe0,c Hastings, Michigan 49056 269-945-9557 Joseph Carter 602 Price Street Livinaston. Tennessee 36570 931-239-8354 ... . 148785 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 32’.2 of thc revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236. MCL 600.3212, tha! the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of tne mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barr/ County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM. on October 29. 2020. Tho amount due on tho mortgage may bo greater on tho day of sate. Placing the highest bid at tno sale doe., not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagors): Edward L Werner, single and Debra L. Hill, single Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for GMAC Mortgage Corporation., its successors and assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Wilmington Savings Fund Soccty. FSB, d/fc/a Christiana Trust, not individually but as trustee for Pretium Mortgage Acquisition Trust Date of Mortgage: Decemoer 20.2C05 Date of Mortgage Recording; January 6,2006 Amount claimed due on date of notice; $62,227.39 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Beginning at tne Northeast corner of tho South 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 10­ 2-9 at the West side of M43 HWY FVW South along tho West side R/W 370 feet to the beginning. South a'ong R/W 10 RD West 16 Rods, North 10 rods. East to the beginning. Common street address (if any). 5328 S M 43 Hwy, Hastings, Ml 49058-9237 The redemption period shall be 1 year from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600.3241a. If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961. pursuant to MCL G00.3278 the borrower w.ll be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to tho mortgage holder for damaging tho property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner; It you are a mn.tary service member on active duty, if your period ot active duty has concluded less than 99 days ago, or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at tho telephone number stated in this notice. This notice is from a deb! coHector. Date of notice: October 1.2020 Trott Law, P.C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Suite 145 Farmington Hills. Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1422113 (10-01X10-22) 148315 Taylor Owens Stajf Writer Evan Shepard, 38, of MiddleviHe. has been charged with multiple felonies, including assault with intent to commit great bodily harm, after shooting a41-year-old Middleville man in the arm at 6:42 p.m. Monday evening. lite victim’s injuries were not life-lhrcatening; the bullet went straight through his arm, Barry County Sheriff’s deputies reported. The shooting was lhe result of a fight between the two men, who initially saw each other in their vehicles at the intersection of Sheridan and Frcemont streets in Middleville, police said. The victim told police he got out of his vehicle and confronted Shepard and a 37-yearold Middleville woman who was driving the vehicle in which Shepard was a passenger. Shepard got out of the vehicle with a .38 revolver in his hand, according to thc police report. The two men got into a scuffle, which led to them wrestling on thc ground over control of thc gun. At one point, Shepard shot the man in the arm, but they continued to struggle. Eventually a 47-year-old man who lived in the area walked over lo the two men and yelled at them to stop. They let go of the gun. and police arrived moments later. In addition to assault with intent to commit Evan Shepard great bodily harm less than murdcr/slrangulation, Shepard was charged Tuesday with assault wilh a dangerous weapon and two counts of felony firearms. He is due back in court for a probable cause conference at 8:15 a.m. Oct. 14. 148811 RULING, continued from page 3 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS trust administration STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENT’S ESTATE FILE NO. 20-28602-DE Estate of Eltzabcth C. Howell. Date of birth: 3'21/1943. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS' The decedent. Elizabeth C. Howell, died 11/22/2019. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims aga not the estate w.h be forever barred unless presented to Joseph Carter, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street. Ste. 302. Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication® this notice. Date: 9/29'2020 Robert L Byington P-2762 222 West Apple Street. P.O.Box 248 Man charged in Middleville shooting ALE NO. NA In the Matter of Jan* Cavanaugh. Date of birth: 03/05/1934. TO ALL CREDITORS; NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Janet A. Cavanaugh, who lived at 6795 Noffke Drive, Caledonia. .Ml 49316 died July 16, 2020. There is no personal representative of the decedent's estate to whom Letters 0! Authority have been issued. Creditors of tho decedent are notified that a'l da:ms against the Trust will be forever barred unless presented to Daniel Cavanaugh, successor Trustee cl the Richard T. Cavanaugh and Janet A Cavanaugh Trust dated September 19. 2018, w.th n 4 months alter date of publication of this notice Date: 9/11/2020 Delicnbusch & Ryan. Pic Ca'olinuM Dei!cnbuschp33i85 2944 Fuller Ave NE, Su’e 100 Grand Rapids. Mi 49505 (6161451 -4242 Dame* Cavanaugh 2200 Glenn Gary Ct. SE Grand Rap os, Ml 49546 (616)450-9286 148765 STATE CFMICHIGAN PROBATt COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENT'S ESTATE FILE NO. 20-28579-DE Estate of Robert J. Carr. Date of birth: 9/17/1925. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Robert J. Carr, died 10'23/2019. Creditors of tho decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Robert J. Carr II. personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Ste. 302, Hastings. Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 9/29/2020 Robert L. Byington P-27621 222 West Apple Street, P.O. Box 248 Hastings. Michigan 49053 269-945-9557 Robert J. Carr. II P.O. Box 207 Mentone, Indiana 46539 574-353-7438 148786 NOTICE TO THE RESIDENTS OF BARRY COUNTY Notice is hereby given that the Barry County Planning Commission will conduct a public heanng for the following Case Number: SP-8-2020 - Samuel & Clara Herschberger (Property Owners) Location: 75 West Brogan Road. Hastings, in Section 7 cf Baltimore Township­ Purpose: Requesting a special usc permit t0 conduct a cabmet-makinq business as a Homo Oc­ cupation-Major per Article 23 Section 2339 in tho RR (Rural Residential) zoning district. Caso Number: SP.g.X - Danlcl Mll,er (Property Owner) Location: 7175 Lacev Road Bellevue, in Section 4 of Assyria Township Purpose: Requesting a special use permit for the ability to use the pro^L J build storage buildings or mini-barns as a Home Occup4bon-Major per ArdJstnct3, SeCl,On 233^ in the A (Agriculture) zoning M££HH&UAlE octAhnr 26. 2020. DME: 7:00 PM _^£^dCnOc^^flrr community Room, Still, business owners arc preparing to deal with confused customers. Many businesses struggled to make cus­ tomers who resented the mask requirement understand the law, and now they’re working to teach customers that stores have a right to determine whether to keep (hose requirements despite the Supreme Court order, Michigan Retailers Association spokesperson Meegan Holland said. Any other fallout? You bet. One of Whitmer's executive orders that’s now in question allowed governments to bypass Open Meetings Act laws and meet virtually over Zoom or other platforms. Lansing this week canceled its city meet­ ings because of thc Supreme Court ruling, and other local agencies could follow suit. Shelbyville man falls victim to internet scam A 47-ycar-old Allegan man called police al 12:34 Sept. 21 lo report his father, 72, of Shelbyville, had been scammed out of $989. Thc man said his father forgot his bank pass­ word, and was looking on the internet for a way to locate it. He clicked on a website that put him in touch with a man who said he would help him. The unknown man gained remote access to the father's computer, and convinced him to download an app to send money. The case is inactive without further information. Marijuana thief chucks plants out the door 55-year-old man reported his marijuana plants stolen from his fenced-in yard in the 2000 block of Howard Point Drive in Castleton Township al 8:42 a.m. Sept. 25. The man said four plants were stolen overnight, and he had a suspect in mind. Police went to the suspect’s residence, where a truck was in the driveway that had loose soil marijuana leaves in the bed. Neighbors said they saw the residents of the trailer were inside, but they refused to come to lhe door when police knocked. Eventually the victim called through the door, saying there would be no repercussions if the plants were relumed. “The door finally opened and the subjects started throwing the marijuana plants out lhe door,’’ lhe officer wrote in the report. Inside, a 22-year-old Alto man and two other people were throwing the plants out the door. The Alto man confessed to stealing the plants. An officer explained to the suspect that it was not up to thc victim, but the prosecutor’s office as to whether there would be any repercussions. Information was sent to the prosecutor’s office. Thief steals $500 computer from Walmart An unknown male suspect walked out of Walmart in Hastings with a $500 Hewlett Packard desktop and miscellaneous food items at 1:40 pan. Sept. 28,‘rhc man went to lhe self checkout, scanned all the items except the computer, and left without paving for any­ thing. The suspect is believed to have committed similar thefts al Walmart stores in Kalamazoo and Battle Creek. The case is inactive without further information. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 49058 °Uth ChUrch Street,’HasUftfl’. Michigan Site inspect^ of ih ahave described proper­ ties will be comp|e.°i u .Spanning Commission members before In^ by lht ^rested persons de­ siring to present ± an appeal, e.ther be heard at the ah/ olaco and bmo. Any written lo the oddress listed bti50nso "J0/ b(269» 948-4020. or emailed to B3rTV c_faxed_‘_ning Director James McManus at ^ounty Pian^Larfl Thu for public inspection at the inning Department 220 West Sta^7 County P^nM%;gan 49058. during lhe hOu* ^*1. . Fnday Please call the a m 10 o^nning Department at (269)<J45-l25Q^Coun^P^.n‘nngU P The County ofu^r ovjde necessary □ux-lrary alth ano Barry P s,gnere for lhe hearing unpanej f r,nted materials being cons!defba^audiotape®o’PindlVjduals with a, £«'**"•**;'Em, ten (10) TJ’C1,“ 10 in. ^',in£l'" f S-y wilh d,3Jb„,;es £ County ol individuals of senrie09 ii ” m “WJ=' VtecT"3 by wdlinfl Mio^nty o< ^7nty Administrator. Hrown; T^higan 49058. (269)945.12^^^ Pamela Pdi~ 14Qe33 county Cc liiisiuew Services I 'or Sale MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 2b9-H0-l-7506. KASSON 10FT OAK Pool Table, excellent condition 51,000.00 or OBO. 269-908­ 1654 BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. CARRON SPORT AIR Hock­ ey Table. $300.00 OBO. Phone 269-908-1654. BEL1S CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements, power washing. 269-320-3890. Help \\iinlcd B. BUS MOBILE LIBRARY Seeks Driver. I'ues/'l hur 3'306;30pm. Requited CDL air brakes. Call 269-945-4574. \ ilium a live 2005 CHEVYTRAILBLAZER 4WD, 230,243 miles, Heal­ ed leather scats, sunroof, 5 disc CD player. Tow pack­ age. Good winter vehicle $2,700.00 OBO. Call/(ext 616-481-6900. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: �Hastings Planning Commissk”1 discusses animal ownership, kennels Sophie Kati-s W >»><;<•/ ■l-h. u- . ..,, discussed residential'tXenl Con>!”issio" animals - r.lngi ‘from 7 honeybees topigs — ^n, i .,m /h’ckens to districts where thCv fennels in authorized, at x.rf., n e u,rrcn|ly not Monday night. ‘ nio,1Jbb meeting lhe discourse surrounding animal ownership began in August when a resident , addressed the commission regarding thc ow nership of chickens and other small poultry within lhe city. Hu* commission deferred the discussion until the city’s master plan was close to completion, which il now is. “I would say that right now. the master plan is relatively silent with respect to something like this.” Rebecca Harvey, u planner assisting the city, said. Some commission member* were reluctant to review thc issue, citing previous discussions Oct. 23 date set for reopening Hastings 4 Creg Chandler Staff Writer After a pandemic and bankruptcy filing bv its previous owners, the Hastings 4 movie theater will reopen later this month. GQ1 Movies has announced that the Hastings theater will reopen Friday, Oct. 23. The company is phasing in the reopening of 11 theaters over a period of three weeks, starting this Friday with locations in Ann Arbor. Bay City. Battle Creek and Holland. “This has been a long time coming, and we aie ready to get back to the job of serving our valued customers,” GQT chief operating officer Matt McSparin said in an Oct. 2 news release. The phasing of the reopening will allow GQT lo make sure all aspects of its new safety plan are in place and training can be completed. The company has instituted a plan that emphasizes social distancing and sanitizing. Employees will be required to wear masks or face shields. The company will conduct wellness checks, including temperature checks, and will follow specific rules when it comes to serving concessions to customers, according to the GQT website. “Guest safety through clean and disinfected lobbies, bathrooms, concession areas, and auditoriums will be our priority.” McSparin said. Sept. 25. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer allowed tor the reopening of movie theaters across most of the state after they had been shut down since March as a result of the COVID19 pandemic. One GQT location - Cadillac has been open since Aug. 7. Mason Asset Management and Namdar Realty Group announced in July it has closed on thc sale of the Hastings 4 and other theaters that had been ow ned by lhe former Goodrich Quality Theaters. The new ownership team has formed a company known as Goodrich Theater NcwCo LLC that will operate lhe Hastings 4 and 21 other movie houses in Michigan. Illinois. Indiana and Missouri. Goodrich Quality Theaters had filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy Feb. 25 in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Grand Rapids. The sale of the Hastings 4 and other theaters was approved June 30 by Chief Bankruptcy Judge Scott Dales, and the new owners closed on lhe sale shortly thereafter. GQT Movies will honor Goodrich Quality Theater gift cards. More information about the company, including how to apply for employment, can lx* found online at gqtmov ics.com. TOWNSHIP OF CURLTON BARRY COUNTY; MICHIGAN NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE ROIX FOR MIDDLE LAKI: WEED CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 1 TO: ‘Hie residents and property owners Ixxxlering Middle Like and all other inter­ ested parties. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE Oral the Township Sujxrrvisor has reported tn'itie Township Board and filed in the office ot lhe Township Clerk for public examination a special assessment roll prepared covering all properties within thc \Xced Control Special Assessment District No, 1 benefited by thc weed control project. Said assessment roll has been prepared for the purpose of assessing a portion of the costs for thc proposed Weed Control Special Assessment District No. 1 as more particularly .shown on the plans and estimates of costs on file with the Township Clerk within the township, which assessment is m thc approximate amount of $105,000.00 for three seasons. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that lhe supervisor has further reported that die assessment against each parcel of land within .said district is such relative portion of the whole sum levied against all parcels of land m .said district as thc benefit to such parcels bears to the total benefit to all parcels of land in said district Hie proposed special assessment as shown on du* roll is in the approximate amount of $105,000.00 for thc three seasons, or S35.000.00 per year ($343.14 per year per parcel) of land in the district Fur further information you arc invited to examine thc Roll. Ref. Middle Like Weed Special Assessment Distil* t 04-028-323-00 04-028-324-00 04-028-320-00 04-028-326-00 0-1-029-101-00 0-1-029-102-00 0-1-029-403-00 04-029-104-00 0-1-029-105 4)0 O4-O29-iO6-5O 04-029-414-00 04-029-490-00 04-029-493-00 04-029-494-00 04-029-195-00 04-029-199-00 0-1-032-105-00 04-032-146-00 0-1-032-118-00 04-032-550-00 04-033-236-00 04-033-238-00 04-033-240-05 04-033-245-05 04-033*250-00 04-033-251-00 01-033-290-00 04-033-291-00 04-033-292-00 01-033-293-00 04-033-294-00 0 J-033-295-00 01-033-296-00 04-033-297-00 01-033-298-00 01-033-299-00 04-0 i0-0U 1-50 01-004-002-00 0-1-040-003-00 O-i-040-005-00 0 i-010-006-00 04-010-00-00 0 i-0 t()-009 50 04-0404)11-00 0 i-O4 0-013-00 0-1-0404)144)0 014)104)184)0 04-010-019-00 04-050-001-00 014)504)02’00 044)50-003-00 04-050-001-00 0-14)55-039-00 04-055-040-00 04-055-0)1-00 044)55-044-00 o i-f)55-() i64)t) 044)65-000-027-02 04-065-026-00 044)054)28-00 04-065-030-00 01-065-031-00 04-075-004-00 0-1-0754)114)0 0-1-0754) 12-00 04-075-014-00 04-0754)154)0 04-075-016-00 044)754)184X) 04-0954)01-00 014)95-003-00 04-095-0044)0 04-0954)05-00 04-095-006-00 0 44)95-0074)0 04-095-0094)0 04-095-011-00 044)954)14-00 04-050-006-00 04-0504)084)0 04-0504)0^00 044)504)104)0 04-0504)114)0 04-0504)12-00 044)504) 13-00 01-050-0144)0 044)50-016-00 0-14)554)0x8-00 04-055-010-00 04-0554)144)0 04-0554)15-00 01-055-017-00 04-0554)194)0 014)55-022-00 0-14)55-025-00 044)55*0244)0 0-1-055-025-00 0-1-055-026-00 04-055-027-00 014)55-033-10 01-0554)314)0 044)554)354)0 01-055-0364)0 04-055-038-00 PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that thc Township Board will meet at the Carlton Township H..II at «5 Wdc.^te Ko;,<l. JlaMtngs. Ml .|9O>8 on Oct 12. 2020. at 7:00 p,n for rl... nnrnow of reviewing >aid Special Assessment Roll, hearing any objections thereto. • H,I -l„.r.-ifter confirming said Roll as submitted or revised or amended. Said Roll niav U c«rSn[!d at the office of dw lownship Clerk at 85 Welcome Road, Uastmgs. Alt ,9058 bv appointment mini the lime of satJ hearing and may further be examined at said! be .ring Appearance and prote.t .it tins hearing >s reijinred in order to appeal the a^ium of d.e .'peti.il assessment to the Mate lax Irthtmal prrASE TAKE FCKIIIER NOTICE that an owner, or party in interest, or his 1 * < <n-.i moeir ill person at lhe hearing to protest the Special Assessment, or or her agent m. • I jr(t|(i, ()r prnK,st by letter at or lx.fr.re the hearing, and in tint may file hrs or I c J ! iRt. >tl ||| ,)ol j,(. required. The owner or any person having an T vide necessity .rod n •• • no.,cc V da^ to .he 1' n i n the Cirlton Township C lerk ol thc need for 1 ................................. •.................. Amanda Brown. Clerk Carlton Township 85 Welcome Rd Hastings. Ml 4905k (269) 915-5990 The HaVinqs Banner — Thursday, Octct)«f 8. 2020 Page U ... ..„nn>'i'MOn decided . 10 wherein Ore the city * roh ^ancc fh>n . hlp’.1 «cte met «"h '^edinte^M “ member* who cMJ revising thc l>U,AVe are scrI f-! ’ ^0^8’'V/lFC righl now compared to ’«’ Wan Brehm. ominnssionnKn^ a ^salevclof sell .Mitlicieiiey |o, Point, want to live up to. ■ We I -"Pic gardening that didn’t <1» " *?f and d / “Iot of people, you know, firnnin.»ng compost and other things.” mfic u ••I would enc° to at it. 1 mean, lhe youngergj ‘ on.they’re looking for communities th* ‘ 8 ”'g to allow those types of uses.” c<>nl” !’x,on member Jacquic McLean said. “1 see unking wrotni with it- ^°* ordinances that U’lk . to see other those types of Planning conin»ss*°n members asked Harvev to bring sample ordinances for consideration at a ,utl,rc Reeling and will proceed according!). “I’d like to see us at least look nt some of these draft ordinance* she has,” Mayor David Tossava said, ”1 think we have more chickens in town than we know about, you know, and this would be some way lhat wc could regulate them.” . Later in the meeting, the commission was addressed by Karen Zuver, owner of the doggie-daycare KAZ Canine Corners, who wants lo begin offering kennel services. “Currently, commercial kennels are only allowed in our rural residential zone. Karen is located. I believe in the D-2, the industrial district,” Dan King, community development director, said. “And I believe her request will be to have planning commission consider a text amendment to lhe D-l and D-2 districts to allow commercial kennels in those districts.” Zuver said wilh many of her clients working from home due to COVID-19, she has had a large drop in her customer base; however, she said she’s received many requests for kennel and animal boarding services and hopes pursuing that route will improve her profitability. “The key to my investigation of this process is the requests 1 gel from either my current clients or people who just come in and ask if 1 board. On average, it is at least three requests per day — sometimes it’s more than that,” Zuver said. “My client base just isn’t needing the service as it stands." The commission set a public hearing on this matter— the first step in what will likely be at least a four-month process — for thc November planning commission meeting. Also. Harvey noted lhe city’s master plan is almost complete; several parts of the plan — lhe infrastructure, partnerships, and future land use and strategy sections — are pending approval. After the plan is finalized, it will be submitted to the city for review. Z/r other news, the planning commission: -Set a public hearing for lhe next meeting, regarding the construction of a maintenance shed at The Legacy golf course. Owners Nathan Tagg and Tom Watson, who requested the planning commission’s approval, estimate the shed will be within 50 to 75 feet of the property line shared with residential homes. -Received notice from King that Spectrum Health Pennock’s new surgical center expansion is scheduled to open in mid­ November. -Heard a report on a site plan approval for renovations al Spotless Auto, 815 W. Slate St. The renovations include adding a 241-square­ foot equipment or mechanical room and the relocation of vacuums. With assistance from a zoning administrator, the site plan was approved by City Manager Jerry Czarnecki previous to thc meeting Monday. -Approved a site plan request from Daniel Gilbert, owner of Gilbert’s Maxi Muffler at 201 N. Broadway St., for the outdoor sale of merchandise. Page Elementary fiflh-graders Audrey Kenyon and Emma Bowman dig in to turn over the first shovelfuls ot ground on the Thornapple Kellogg Schools' elementary school expansion during Wednesday’s groundbreaking ceremony at McFall Elementary School. (Photo by Greg Chandler) Thornapple Kellogg breaks ground on elementary building expansion Thornapple Kellogg Schools assistant superintendent Craig McCarthy speaks about . the elementary school expansion project at Wednesday’s groundbreaking. ’ Greg Chandler Staff Writer Construction is underway on the expansion of all three elementary buildings in the Thomapple Kellogg school district. Elementary students joined school officials Wednesday in turning over the ceremonial first shovelfuls of earth on the expansion proj­ ect, nearly a year after school district voters approved a $425 million bond issue that made thc project possible. "This is a culmination of a lol of work by a lol of people," Assistant Superintendent Craig McCarthy said at the start of the groundbreak­ ing ceremony, which took place on the south side of McFall. On Nov. 5,2019, voters approved a 25-}ear. no-mill tax increase lo finance the bond issue with 1,836 yes votes to 853 no. “Wc really appreciate the support of the community in passing the bond and making this all possible,” school board President David Smith said. “This is an exciting day.... It won’t be too long until there is earth being moved and foundations put in and so forth.’’ Fourteen new elementary classrooms will be added in lhe district as a result of lhe proj­ ect, including six at McFall, which houses the district’s Young Fives, kindergarten and firstgrade students. McFall will have new music and art rooms, while thc current art room will be converted into a classroom. Four new classrooms are planned al Lee, which houses second and third grades, as well as a teacher work room. Al Pace, which is home to fourth- and fifth-grade students, the expansion will include four new classrooms, including larger music and art rooms. The existing art and music rooms will be trans­ formed into regular classrooms, and lhe cafe­ teria also is being expanded to allow for more seating and serving space. Representatives from GMB Architecture and Engineering, the project architect, and Owen-Ames-Kimball Co., the constructidn manager, joined in lhe groundbreaking cere­ mony. "They have been working behind the scenes for the past nine months, doing schematic designs, estimating total costs of the construe-. lion and putting together plans for whaL’s going lo start today,” McCarthy said. For Cade Dammen. OAK director of field operations, the day was particularly special. “My mom was a teacher in this building. I went lo school in this building. My kids will go to school in this building.” said Dammen, a 2009 Thomapple Kellogg High graduate. The new classrooms are expected to be ready for use by the start of the 2021-22 school year, McCarthy said. The other major portion of die bond issue, the construction of the district’s new learning center, is not expected to break ground until January*. The new centcr, which will be locat­ ed on an 80-acre site on Bender Road across from the district's bus garage drive, will house the preschool, early childhood special educa­ tion, Great Start Readiness and day care pro­ grams. ’Lhat project is slated for completion by the summer of 2022. Middleville planners approve Bradford White proposal Greg Chandler Staff Writer Bradford White Corp, will proceed with with a 29 J)0()-square-fooi human resources addition to its Middleville plant. The village planning commission Tuesday unanimously approved a site plan to the addi­ tion at 200 Lafayette Street. It Wjji built on the north of end of Bradford White’s research and development building, which was just completed. The approval had been recom­ mended last month by the commission’s site plan committee. A 14.000-square-foot section of the plant lhat has housed the company’s human resources department will be torn down to make way for the addition, Wbich will be built on two floors. Demolition work has already been com­ pleted on the old nursing statjOn that was of the old human resources wing, said lumce Appleby, an engineering technician for Bradford While. The addition includes a 15,600-square-foot lower level that will include new nursing and first aid treatment rooms, as well as a new break room and restrooms. “The goal there is to have the nurses more readily available to the planl floor employ­ ees,” Appleby told commissioners. “The nurse will be located very close to HR so lhat we can increase lhe efficiencies on employee interaction wilh both the nurses and HR. to gel through those as quickly as possible.” The lower level also will include an expanded and upgraded cafeteria, which will be large enough lo maintain social distanc­ ing, Appleby said. ~ The new human resources office* would lx? located in lhe 9,700-square-foot grade level area, as well as a main entrance and lobby for hourly company employees. “1 believe we’ve set it up to get good tlow from all the new parking lots into and oul of the building " Appleby said. A 3,700-square-foot turnstile and employ­ ee health screening area on the east end of the addition also will be part of thc addition,' according to Anthony Mourand. a civil engi­ neer for the Grand Rapids-based engineering firm Fishbeck. The building materials and color of the exterior will match lhat of lhe research and development building, village Planning and Zoning Administrator Brian Urquhart said. No major objections were raised b> plan­ ning staff or commissioners prior lo the vote. A Consumers Energy power pole on the site is being relocated as part of lhe project. Appleby said. A 6-foot-high aluminum decorative fence will be installed along lhe sidewalk leading to lhe entrance, separating lhe sidewalk from thc steel receiving turnaround area. Pedestrian crossings and signage will be installed from lhe parking lol across lhe drive to the entrance, l he site plan also calls for bike racks along lhe southern portion of lhe entrance, Urquhart wrote in a memo to lhe planning commission. �Pago 12 — I hursday. October 8. 2020 — The Hastings Panner ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ Old factory building will be missed Luke Fruncheck Staff Writer Barry Communiiy Foundation President Bonnie Gettys woke up Wednesday morning when she heard a knock at her bedroom door. “Look out the window,” her stepson called. “All > vox was the pink plow in thc horizon tram lhe minke and the flames," Gettys said Wednesday morning. "I was lu>l thinking about the loss to the community. Gilts s live' across thc Ihonuipple River from the Royal Coach property. Just over a scar ago. she and thc community foundation Haft' wrapped up the purchase of the budding through donations from the Det.amp lami. Foundation .. ’Emotionally. I don’t know where to go. teal estate irecnt Fracs Baker said, "wc just looked out lhe w indow and it was devastating. Everyone loved that building. I don l know anvone who didn’t. w •Il s been there a.s long .-w I can remember. Commission on Aging Executive Director F.immv Pennington, a Hastings native, said. “I remember walking across the trestle and looking at the building. I was just really looking forward to the apartments. The (ormer Hastings Table Company/rioyai uoacn buiiding wa5 significant to the Nou lhe building is nothing more than economy and industry in Hastings for many decades, it gainod more attention after rubble’and ash scattered in surrounding adjacent single-story warehouse buildings were razed in AugUS| 2017. neighborhoods during the blaze that began around 3:30 a.m. But from the ashes can also nsc good, Gettys said. . ••ft’s a very sad day.’’ lhe city’s Communiiy JX'velopment Director Dan King said “There . is a lol ot Hastings history sitting in a pile of rubble right now." The city had identified the Royal Coach property for housing. A proposed planned unit development was to include 45 one-bedroom apartments and nine two-bedroom units within the former factor}'. Nearly 20 townhouse buildings also were planned on lhe 8.21-acre parcel. . •We’re just thankful it wasn’t after any renovations when people were living there." Gettys said. Former Foundation board chairman and current board member Fred Jacobs said they will have to look at their options as far as lhe project and the property before deciding how lo proceed. “Bonnie and 1 had just been talking about lhe project on Monday - over where wc were in the process,’’ Jacobs said. "What a shock when I received a phone call from Bonnie about 5 a.m. Wednesday morning that the Royal Coach building was on fire." It was one of the oldest industrial buildings in Hastings. Jacobs said, bul it’s belter to lose an empty building rather than a newly renovated one full of families. “1 got a call about the fire at about 4 a.m." H.istings City .Manager Jerry Czarnecki said Wednesday. “Our DPW and fire department did a great job. “Once the smoke settles, we’ll revaluate what it means for lhe project." Foundaiion officials plan to focus on the future and find more affordable housing This photo was taken in the 1940s. during the short operation of the Royal Coach Company, (center). The Thornapple Plaza now occupies the area just above the bot­ tom right corner. Royal Coach building had start in furniture production The former train trestle near where factories were once concentrated became a pedestrian bridge, connecting the Thornapple Plaza entertainment venue lo a 200-foot long building that was proposed to be converted into apartments. The plaza, bridge and removal of idle factory space nearby have invigorated the east side of downtown Hastings. opportunities for Barrs Count}, Gettys said. "The project will go forward, but now we will have to focus on building a new structure that maintains the character that was lhe building’s history." Jacobs said. “We don’t know what our plans are at this point." Gettys said.“I’mthankful that we still have partners that are concerned about housing. In all reality, we will continue to make Hastings a wonderful place to live." Kathy Maurer Copy Editor ?\llhough commonly referred to as lhe Royal Coach building today, thc factory building that was destroyed by fire early Wednesday was known as the Hastings Table Company. The structure was built in lhe early 1890s. lhe fourth factory in a push lo bring industry to Hastings - thc other three being The Hastings Furniture Company, Michigan Wool Boot Company and the Michigan Whip Factory. L.H. Evarts, of Grand Ledge, proposed building a chair and table factory here, after gaining knowledge in that neighboring city. "The appetite for factories was still keen, and Mr. Evarts’ suggestion was taken serious­ ly." longtime Hanner editor Marshall L. Cook wrote in 1956. "Mr. Evarts was a stickler for doing things right," Cook continued. “He urged the direc­ tors of the new company to build a brick plant because it was more economical to maintain; also lhat a factory without an inside stairway and with heavy floors would furnish a better foundation for machines and would consider­ ably reduce the cost of insurance." Thu original building was 36 by 100 feel. The Panic of 1893 soon followed, and the company quickly focused on manufacturing tables only, discarding lhe chair line. The Hastings Table Company struggled through its first decade until industrialist and inventor Emil 'tyden, of the Tyden Car Seal, designed a lock for lhe company’s expandable pedestal, tables. Sales greatly improved with thc Tyden invention, so much so that the table factory doubled in size - extending to 200 feet in length. A Hastings table is still a coveted piece of furniture, many selling from $500 to $5,000. The company prospered for several years and continued operations through World War 1. However, fumilure styles changed, and the company’s fumilure lost favor wilh consum­ ers in the late 1920s. The decline was'fol­ lowed soon after by the Great Depression.) The company eventually was sold to furni­ ture makers in Grand Rapids in the 1930s, but the entire furniture industry suffered. and the plant closed in a matter of years. The Royal Coach company only occupied lhe building for 15 years, from 1940 lo 1955, making high-quality sleek, Airstream-type travel trailers. During World War II, its focus was on mobile home units for U25. Army per­ sonnel. Competition proved too strong for lhe trail­ er company, and it ceased production in 1955. Neighboring Hastings Manufacturing Company bought the former lablc factory and surrounding buildings, using them mostly for warehousing. Mosl recently, lhe 200-fool-long brick building was the focus of the proposed Royal Coach Apartments. Jail tax levy request draws citizen rebuke Rebecca Pierce Editor Charles Hertzler of Hastings gave Barry County commissioners a piece of his mind Tuesday when he reprimanded them about a jail tax levy request on the Nov. 3 general eleclion ballot. Hie question asks county voters for a tax levy of 0.1722 mills in thc first year and 0.4501 mills over thc remaining years of lhe 25-year issue. It would fund construction of a I JO-bed facility that could ultimately expand to beds. l he county is paying jail project consultant ToucrPinksler $70,000 for its efforts, $20000 of which was lacked on to cover lhe costs of an election campaign. None of the county commissioners is talking about a new location for lhe jail - and that is causing some anger and bemusement on the part of some citizens. “You don’t buy a house sight unseen," Hertzler told them. "We need something solid to go with. ...I don’t see where we should give you $25 million for nothing." Hertzler rebuked lhe board for wasting "all that money" on TowerPinkster, who was hired to facilitate the jail project, wilh nothing, ulti­ mately, lo show voters for il. Commissioners did not speak or react lo his remarks, as is their policy with regard to pub­ lic comments. Bul Hertzler did not realize ihis. “Am I making myself clear?" he told them, his voice getting louder as he leaned forward. As soon as Hertzler concluded his com­ ments. Leaf got up and said the money tor die jail and sheriff’s department had to be request­ ed from voters - up front - lo protect againsl the property being snapped up by someone who would drive lhe price up. A short lime later. Chairwoman Heather Wing made the morion that lhe board go into closed session to discuss the purchase of closed door session and then adjourned. The Hastings Banner objected to the closed meeting in September and made a verbal Freedom of Information Act request, followed by one in writing, which was denied by Couniy Administrator Michael Brown the same day. Commissioner Ben Geiger had indicated then that some news regarding the property would be released soon. Today, however, he did not express the belief that an announce­ ment was imminent. In other business, the board: • recommended approving a Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding Grant Contracl totaling $72,200 in supplemental funding to cover costs for trial court operation during the COVID-19 pandemic. • recommended approval of a consulting agreement between the county and Sheridan Land Consulting, Inc. for the term beginning June 1,2020 through Oct.30.2020. as recom­ mended by the Barry Couniy Conservation Easement Board. • recommended the appointment of Alfred Gemrich to the Barry County Conservation Easement Board as a township designee for a term that bccan on Jan, 1,2019 and ends on Dec. 31.2022. • recommended lhe ratification of re-ap­ pointing Karen Ruplc and Karen Zuver to the county’s Officers Compensation Commission for four-year terms that began on Oct. 1 and expire on Sept. 30.2024. • recommended reappointing Jodi Pessell lo represent the Health Association/ Environmental Professional on the Barry Couniy Solid Waste Ovcrsighi Committee for a three-year term that begins on Nov. I and expires on Oci. 31,2023- SOCIAL SECUfflTY MATTERS Reasons to use Vonda Van TH Public Affairs Specialist There are countless reasons why you can benefit from using your personal My Social Security account. Here are five lhat highlight why opening an account today can help you and lhe people you love. Saving you time - There’s no need to leave your home when using lhe features of My Social Securiiy. You may think you need to speak wilh a Social Security representative to check your application status, set up or change direct deposit.or request a replacement Social Security card. All you have to do is log in or create an account at ssa.gov/myaccount. Securiiy - When you open an account, il prevents someone else from possibly creating an account in your name. And, wc use the iwo-slep authentication to verify you are the one logging in to your account. Sour personal property. l he board voted unanimously lo do so and 'pent about an hour in closed session. Commissioner.' Vivian Conner and Jon Smelkcr wen- absent I he board then resumed its open meeting, information is very important lo us. voted to adopt the minutes ot the meeting of Reassurance - Did you know you can see lhe i In .'I session bul t<x)k no other action your entire work history wilh your personal b g.uding any property transaction. My Social Security account? I his allows you Ibis is the second lime this fall that the to verify if your employers rejiorted your board Ib.s conducted such business behind earnings to us correctly. I his is very important. ,’]< i ed drxirs ihen come back into open ses­ Accurate wage reporting will unsure you get sion. unanimously adopted the minutes of the the benefits you earned when you begin -■■-.■r. - Although the original company ceased operation in the 1930s, the faded name of the Hastings Table Company was still faintly visible until the building was destroyed Wednesday morning. Social Security receiving benefits. v Planning fOr futurc - Retirement planning is es^. f ^cure future. lhe Retirement CakU| |eb you enter the age or date when yOu‘ * u> begin receiving benefits U) gcn *P estimated benefit TUnL If^« enter ?our estimated future 'h salary amount fk fontiul - a n. he included when t Mv SiK’ial Security replacement S, • resuk r-mi Check yourself in conin'‘|,s'eoV 110 -------------------------------- ■ „ V"",la r. ' “ "I hr |t, 1,1 ■ ’ _ ,he a#airs li,« „«n wriie Y"’J W5, <,r via V£. - . and put .. The fagade of the former table factory changed over the decades In the earlv 1900s, it doubled in length, accounting for one change in its exterior. ............................................................................................. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-10-15.pdf a6034399fcb71ef521d7255982e4a3f9 PDF Text Text Saxons, Cardinals fight for 1-8 lead See Story on Page 16 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 804879110187 ‘ ANNER Police suspect arson in Royal Coach blaze Write-in deadline is Oct. 23 Nov. 3 is less than three weeks away, but h’s not too late to nin for elected office. In some local elections, a write-in candidate could be a shoo-in for the seat. Local elections with too few candidate'* include Hastings Charter Township, with three candidates filed for four seats, and Maple Valley Board of Education, which ha< one candidate for three full four-year terms and no candidates for a partial term. Barry County Clerk Pamela Palmer said die deadline to file a declaration of intent to run as a write-in candidate is 4 pjn. Oct. 23. A notarized declaration of intent form is required to lx* a valid write-in candidate. Those forms are available from Palmer or any of the clerks in the villages, city or township. A notary public is a person authorized to certify the form, which makes it a legal document. Palmer said she can provide notarization at the county clerk’s office for a $5 fee but some notary services mat be provided elsewhere in the county at no cost, ' ' Kny residents who are interested in runI rung for elected office in their community I should call their local clerk's office to find I out more. Palmer said. YAC collecting donations Saturday | The Barry Community Foundation’s Youth Advisory Council will host its 2()th annual roof sit fundraiser Saturday moming. Oct. 17. Students from local high schools will be I collecting donations at locations in I Hastings and Middleville between 9 and 11:30 a.m. In Hastings, students will be on a scaf­ fold at the comer of Stale and Jefferson streets. In Middleville, students will collecl donations at the corner of East Main I and Railroad streets near the Sesquicentennial Pavilion, YAC Director Jillian Foster said. Proceeds from the roof sit will be used to support Family Promise of Barry' County, a nonprofit dedicated to helping families struggling with homelessness. Last year, YAC raised $4 J 72 for United Way of Barry County - about halt of which was raised the day of the roof sit. More information on the roof sit can be obtained by calling the community foun­ dation, 269-945-0526 I I I | Fundraiser breakfast I in Delton The Delton Moose will be open to the I public for breakfast Saturday, Oct. 17, I from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. All proceeds from I the event will go to the Dekun Kellogg I Education Foundation. The money will support the foundation I in providing trade school and college scholarships for Delton Kellogg graduates I and classroom grants for teachers and stuI dents. I Dinc-in, drive through and take-out meds will be available, and will include [cgEs, pancakes. French toast, sausage. I bacon. sausage biscuits and gravy and fried potatoes Patrons can call ahead lor I takeout and curbside drive-through orders,269-623-2112. , . Political sign guideline’ available The County Road Ass.Kiat>on of Michigan has released a 'ide*’ ou." 1 " the importance of placing pohtU'1 ' and yard sale and "free kittens signs [ otitMdr of the road nght-ol wayThe right-of-way extends ?pp^tXn' 1 ly 33 feet in both directions from the ten ! lerline of the road. Any signs placed in th. *ea are a safety threat to both drivers and See NEWS BRIEFS’ page 2 Hastings Fire Ch’-1 Roger Caris said gas Tay-lor Owens and electricity *erC 1,01 hooked up to the Staff Writer Hastings City Police plan to seek arson vacant building. “A building without any power and gas to it charges against at least one suspect in the isn ’t going to take off on its oWn,“ Thomapple Royal Coach fire this Friday, Assistant Chief Township Emergency berviccs Chief Randy Dale Boulter said Wednesday. Since the investigation is ongoing, and Eaton said last week. Like any abandoned building. Boulter told expected to continue beyond Friday. Boulter The Hustings Banner hist weck t|wrv ,s a said he could not say much about the case. he “We definitely arc in the midst of an inves­ potential for break*”1’’ or vagrdncy tigation.” he said. “We have developed leads wasn’t aware oi any active or recent issues and have followed up on several of those involving the Royal Coach property. Bonnie Gettys, CEO executive director of leads dial have taken us to some interesting conversations with some subjects in and the Barry Community Foundation, which owns the building, said the housing project around the city of Hastings.” “I anticipate there to be charges on at least that was originally planned for the property one individual for arson.” Boulter said, add­ will move forward. “With the loss of [I’v historical building, it ing there may Ire additional charges requested. A fire marshal has been working with the may look different, she said, “ft will taj;e police since Monday to determine the cause time to determine what that is, or who part and origin of the blaze at the vacant building tiers will or will not be. About 40 firefighters poured approximate at 328 E. Mill St. Officers have been interviewing people in ly 625.000 gallons of water on die Royal the area, checking footage from nearby secu­ Coach building as it burned in the early morn­ rity cameras and looking for any relevant ing hours on Oct. 7. And that was just the first information. day. An excavator knocked down those walls Firefighters were called to the Royal Coach building around 3:30 a.m. Oct. 7. on an odor while the nibble was still burning that eve­ ning. complaint. By the time they arrived, about a third of the three-story, 31,000 square-foot building See SUSPECT, page 6 was nn fire. • Firefighters work to contain the Royal Coach fire before sunrise on Oct. 7. (Photo provided) - Sheriff’s comments draw wiiflft sfetewidte mticism Taylor Owens Staff Writer Sheriff Dar Leaf said he did not intend to defend the men arrested as part of an alleged a plot to kidnap Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Leaf now faces heavy criticism from the stale Attorney General, the Michigan Sheriff’s Association, Barry County Prosecutor Julie Nakfoor Pratt, among others, along with calls for his resignation this week af ter comments he made on TV last Thursday. News outlets broadcast photos of Dar Leaf on stage with members of the Michigan Liberty Militia, including William Null of Orangeville. Null is one of several men. including his twin brother, who have been arrested and charged as part of an investigation into an alleged plot to attack the shite Capitol build­ ing and take hostages, including Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Both Null brothers were changed with pro­ viding material support for terrorist acts and possessing a firearm in the commission of a felony. According to state Attorney General Dana Ncssel, the men who’ve been charged alleged­ ly called on militia members to identify the homes of law enforcement officers to target them, made threats of violence to instigate a In May, Sheriff Dar Leaf spoke at a rally in Rosa Parks Circle in Grand Rapids to protest Whitmer's stay-at-home orders. To the left of Leaf is William Null, of Orangeville, who was recently charged along with several other men in an alleged plot to attack the state Capitol building and take hostages, including Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. (Photo by civil war and trained for an operation to attack the slate Capitol. In May. Leaf spoke at a rally in Rosa Park$ Circle in Grand Rapids to protest Whitmer’s stay-at-home orders. An article about the rally, along with a photo of Leaf with Null by his side at the event, was on the front page of the May 21 edition of The Hastings Banner. Last Thursday. Leaf spoke to TV reporters about his involvement in the rally and his relationship to the men who were charged. The sheriff told The Banner that Null was working security at the Grand Rapids rally. lx*af was asked if he had any regrets about sharing the stage with a man who was subse­ quently charged in an alleged plot to kidnap the governor. „ "It’s just a charge. And they say a ’plot to kidnap’ and you got to remember that,” Leaf replied. “Arc they trying to kidnap? Because a lot of people are angry with the governor, and they want her arrested. So arc they trying to arrest or was it a kidnap attempt? Because you can still, in Michigan, it it’s a felony, make a felony arrest.” Nessel commented on die video on Twitter Friday. See CRITICISM, page 2 Brett Bremer) COVID-19 cases on the rise here Health department schedules emergency, meeting Banner Staff The Barry-Eaton District Health Department board called an emergency meet­ ing for 8 a.m. Thursday. The meeting is in response to a rising num­ ber of C0V1D-19 cases in the district, Health Officer Colette Scrimger said in a news release. On Wednesday, the health department web­ site incorrectly reflected that COVID-19 had claimed a fifth victim in Barry County Community Health Promotion Specialist Sarah Suma said that numerical error on their website was caused by the slate Department of Health and Human Services and it has been corrected, she said. “In addition to looking al the raw number of cases, we arc also concerned by the rates of cases in each county,” Scrimger said. "Rates are calculated by inking the number of cases in a jurisdiction, dividing by the number of people who live there, and then multiplying by ’per’ number. In this case, 1XXXMXX) peo­ ple. "The rale in Burry C ounty now is five times as high as it was in early September." Scrimger added that La(on Counly’s rale is increasing S ignificantly, an average of about 20 new cases per day million to about 97 new cases per day per mi||jon peo­ ple. “Even though R‘,rD bounty has a bit more than half the pop”,;”’°n of Eaton County, the rate is higher, meaning thd( CQVID-19 is tak­ ing a worse toll o” lK‘()plv who live there.” Suma said they are secjng jl)Creascs in numbers of cases . punicukirlv among adults in their 3(B a”d m thcjr 7(js ' Part of the rise is due k) increasel| interac­ tions between people, she Slate Rep. Bill Hmrcngai|t.OlUlw;lCoun1yi tweeied ^nmon that he had tested positive l»r he|b(e hc scheduled to; uppv-'r w,ih Vi(.c p((.si(|cnl MiU. lence al! a fro P •,inpatgn la|( j() (iranj Rapids Wednesday. Almost half <>l all .(Itri|)l)ti;d |o people cnlcbmp the V(n,. their own household, Suma said. “Over the summer, it was typical for the health department to handle 5 to 10 new cases a day.” Scrimger said. “Over the past week, it has been about 20 to 30 new cases a day. While some of these cases are associated with college or small K-12 school outbreaks, the majority are ‘community’ cases, often in adults who are working-age or retired.” County Commissioner Jon Smelker ot Freeport''said he could not attend Tuesday’s board of commissioners meeting because he and his wife arc under quarantine. “We’re all right,” Smelker said. “We can in contact with someone who tested positive. 1 am quarantined for 14 days. I’ll be back Oct. 19.” Contact tracing conducted by the local health department in July showed people with COVID 19 had an average ot 1-9 dady close eoniacis w ith other propte. In September, that number jumped to 5-7. A Close eoniact c. defined us being withm 6 feel of .mother person for al least 15 minutes. regardless of whether masks are worn or not. in Middleville, two students and a staff member at Thomapple Kellogg Schools have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. A high school student and middle school stu­ dent, who are from the same family, tested positive for the virus Oct. 7, while the staff member also tested positive at the same time. Last Sunday, district officials contacted the families of students who may have been exposed to the individuals who tested positive and requested that they be placed in quaran­ tine through Oct. 21.14 days after the positive tests were revealed. A total of 59 students and one staff member are affected by the quarantine request, district administrative assistant Erica Dudik said, , According to the health department, the students did not contract the virus in school. Face-to-face instruction is continuing in the district al this lime. Maple Valley Schools had its first experi­ ence with the virus last week. "We have confirmed two COVID-19­ positive individuals attended an after-school See CASES, page 14 �1 meeting Sheriff comes under attack during county board * Page 2 — Thursday. October 15. 2020 — The Hastings Banner S Rebecca Pierce \ Editor \Thc behavior of Harn County Sherii1 Dar ttjif consumed the Barry County Bonn) of Commissioners Tuesday as people lined up to get in and speak their piece. < Inside the Harry Community Enrichment Center’s Leason Sharpe Hall, where the meet­ ing took place, social distancing was observed, thasks were worn, and maximum occupancy QI the room was maintained. Outside the hall, the scene wasn’t quite so Regulated. **Some people didn’t wear masks or observe fjbcial distance requirements. > And some were defiant. •,’“lf someone gels in my face, somebody s ntobably going to gel hurt." one man said. ►; Different factions gathered: Those who supported the sheriff and those who con­ demned his statements and relationship with suspects in an alleged plot to attack the state Capitol and take hostage's, including Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. * "It’s just a charge." I cat said on camera. •'And thev say a ‘plot to kidnap’ and you got to icnwrnber that. Arc'he'' '.^''^'’with' the Baauw a lot <>» I«ople " “"Xj. So arc governor, ami thev wan. hetr arrvt , they trying •» •‘"vsl °* „ . Michigan, attempt? Because you can sti . „ • < • t b'Snnent' Center to protest the shenfl’s inod'an S* OnX read; “Words matter. Actions mat- T". . f' ' (. '0 ’^XnofhVrX'read: ’’Bany County citizens ’;. t!!./( runty I ci+izens I elect a w act SONS II FACTS _ jhn/ff t< elect a sheriff to enforce the law. laitcr. as the county commissioners met ing proceeded quietly inside, two men con­ fronted each other outside, shouting their ENTOfa opposing views at each other. Commissioners, whose only power over the elected sheriff is pursestrings, listened to all those who came to offer public comment. But they did not respond to citizen comment, which is a board policy. At one point, after the Ixaf presented a routine departmental report, Commissioner Sheriff Dar Leaf |istens to County Commission Ben Geiger as he poses a question about Leafs convnonts. Scott Savage of Hastings Township said the sheriff appearing ‘in the uniform of his office lends increased legitimacy to the causes he and these militias pro­ mote.” - . t) . .Citizens who attended the county board meeting door and signed in before entering the hall. were screened at the Ben Geiger questjnnc/Jiim: "Sheriff, as you ait well aware, there was an evil plot to attack the capitol and injure or CRITICISM, continued from page 1 t‘*As Michigan’s top law enforcement offi­ cial. let me make this abundantly clear - per­ sons who are not sworn, licensed members of a law enforcement agency cannot and should not ‘arrest’ government officials with whom they have disagreements.” she wrote. “These comments are dangerous.” A representative from Nessel’s office told The Banner that the law Leaf cited on camera -Michigan Compiled Law 764.16 - was not intended to empower citizens to arrest anyone at- will - and it was significantly limited by a state Supreme Court decision in 2002. ‘“One of the things the Court specifically sthted in its decLion was; *[t]he statute does npt grant arrest authority where the other has not [actually] committed a felony even if the private person has probable cause to believe tiie other has committed a felony.’ Essentially, the Court found that a private person simply dbes not have the same broad arrest powers as does a law enforcement officer." •On Wednesday. Leaf told The Banner he did not cite that law to defend the men’s actions, but to figure out what their thought process might have been. “I quoted it because it was the first thing dial came to my head.” Leaf said. "I wasn't trying to say it was OK to make an arrest on that.” He also spoke to TV reporter a second time, last Friday night. “I don’t want anybody to think I’m sympa­ thetic toward these charges, right? These arc very, very serious charges." Leaf said. “What I don’t want is I don't want us to be trying it in the media and we mess it up in (he justice system somewhere, ‘cause they can't get a fair trial. "It’s very important that we not mess any of this up ‘cause one little technicality and maybe it goes out the dour, and we need to be very, very cautious of that." in a letter released Tuesday, the Michigan Sheriff’s Association condemned Ixaf’s state­ ments. Barry County Prosecutor Julie Nakfoor Pratt also issued a press release on Ixaf’s comments Tuesday. "Sheriff Ixaf is not a lawyer, nor is he licensed to practice law in the State of Michigan, yet he inaccurately cited a law that is inapplicable and is meant to aid the very citizens and law enforcement he is sworn to protect.” Pratt wrote, "As a prosecutor. I find this concerning. There is no logical, legal or ethical basis for statements that defend or condone behavior that threatens the safety of Governor Whitmer, fellow law enforcement, or any other citizen in this country. to “As Michigan’s top law enforcement official, let me ; make this abundantly clear persons who are not sworn, licensed members of a law enforcement agency cannot and should not ‘arrest’ government officials with whom they have disagree­ ments. These comments are dangerous.” Dana Nessel, | Michigan Attorney General I Leaf said he was surprised at Pratt’s state­ ment. “I’m not going to start a fight with her; I think she’s politically distancing,” he added. The sheriff also said the media twisted his words and took them out of context. He also took issue with news outlets that posted the photo of him standing next to Null at the rally. “1 thought it was horrible what they did when they first posted that. They were looking for a fight.” Soon after the photo was posted, and in the days that followed, the Barry County Sheriff’s Office and other local agencies have been receiving phone calls from people criticizing Leaf. Some people called him a "terrorist sympa­ thizer.” “Some of the calls were nasty calls," he said, adding that some included death threats. Barry County Central Dispatch posted a statement on Facebook, saying dispatch has received "an influx of calls, with some being aggressive, threatening or harassing in nature." The post said they were in connection to "recent events" and search warrants that had been executed. The post also explained that dispatch is separate from law enforcement, and directed people to the Michigan State Police, and Sheriff Dar Leaf at the Barry- County Sheriff’s Office. 'I he sheriff ’s office Facebook page, and Dar Leaf’s personal page, were taken down after the influx of angry messages. Leaf told The Banner he believed the calls were part of what he characterized as a coor­ dinated “attack,” due to the number of calls received, and how fast they came after the photo was shared online. “It’s just a.charge. And they say a ‘plot to kidnap’ and you got to remember that. Are they trying to kidnap? Because a lot of people are angry with the governor, and they want her arrested. So are they trying to arrest or was it a kidnap attempt? Because you can still, in Michigan, if it’s a felony, make a felony arrest." Dar Leaf, Barry County Sheriff kill our governor and the evil that brought rise doesn’t condemn kidnapping attempts of gov­ to it is reprehensible and disturbing and ernment officials has no business in law enforcement. He has no business holding the doesn’t represent our values. Unfortunately, some comments were title he does. “For these reasons, I implore the board of made that have brought the attention here today. Would you like to take this opportunity commissioners to censure Dar Leaf and ask to clarify anything or to add any remarks?” for his resignation.” John DeMaagd of Woodland, called into Leaf replied, "I stand by the rule of law.” I hen there was silence as he offered no question “the dereliction of duty and malfea­ further comment and Geiger waited for him to sance of office by Sheriff Dar Leaf.” elaborate. DeMaagd is a lifelong resident of the coun­ finally Geiger said, “But vigilante justice, ty and a business owner and elected precinct nobody should be taking the law into their delegate for Castleton Township. “Tens of own hands.” thousands of individuals live, work and play Leaf’s reply: "Absolutely not.” in Barry County. The safety of these individ­ I'he protest was organized by a former can­ uals is paramount to the proper functioning of didate for county commission District 2, our community.” Cbdy Hayes, who sjxikc to commissioners “The actions of Sheriff Leaf undermine that, Tuesday about canceling the event the day exact safety by choosing to a” IIw ’ mself with; before it was supposed to lake place. William Null and other members of the mili­ “1 canceled the protest out of growing con­ tia. Sheriff Leaf has stated he does not have cerns for safety. Unlike others in my county. 1 any regret for sharing a platform with Mr. believe safety to lx? of most importance.” Null and the militia. ...The sheriff has exhib­ But Hayes deplored the idea that people ited a dangerous pattern of sympathy toward would be afraid to object to the sheriff’s activ­ these militia members who have been charged ities. "Fear of speaking out will lead to intim­ with statewide terrorism." idation tactics.” “I believe it’s important for the board to I caf provided the suspects with a defense, considerthe aetjons and rhetoric of thasheriff W wpuj.jt ipd of Barry Copnly’ as a ■ Hayes added. . . ‘ '' ’• ~ "Even, the Michigan Sheri ff.’s Association has said it docs not in any way. shape or form Continued on next page support his views. I believe a sheriff who Prosecutor says sheriffs commetrfc do awi represent law eraforcemeot in Barry County | ; | I | A number of conservative political media figures in Michigan were targeted by phone calls and Facebook messages as well, he said, adding that one person (old him the timing of this was due to a pending release of Hillary L union s emails by thc Trump administration. irUd hc could not recall when he first n ClnT t T Nu,1‘bul « was the lime Ma,ler movement years ago. Null, who Leaf knew as „Bj|j “ came into !”r °5CC ab<’Ul M idca he had called "My Life Matters. Leaf said he could not recall M^LifeM™^ « ">« mee,ing’ bU‘ 'h:" >, * .Peu’iT me wanting to talk to K±“m’alkLn<lof'hm8s,” Leaf said. Since hen the sheriff ydd he saw Null and hts famdy at diffefJ jn Michigan, in Mn"8 °nC A couple set up signs along the street in front of the Barry Community nfic mer\ Center Tuesday to protest Sheriff Dar Leafs remarks about suspects in the alleged plot to attack the state Capitol and take hostages. (Photos by Rebecca Pierce) , On behalf of the Barr)' County Prosecutor’s Office, we want to express our deepest sym­ pathy for the public officials and their fami­ lies, as well as the law’ enforcement officers affected by the alleged plot to kidnap and harm them. We are grateful to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Attorney General Dana Nessel. the FBI and Michigan State Police for their coor­ dinated efforts to the keep the governor, her family, thc legislators, the staff of the Capitol, and fellow law enforcement safe. We com­ mend officers for their thorough investiga­ tion. The message should be loud and clear: There is no place for crimes of violence in our society. This case is ongoing by the Michigan Attorney General’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and all defendants are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. As the chief law enforcement officer for Barry County, 1 must address the recent state­ ment made by Sheriff Dar Ixaf regarding citizen arrests. His statement should in no way be taken to represent the position of this office or the many selfless, hard-working members of the Barry County law enforce­ ment community. Sheriff Leaf is not a lawyer, nor is he licensed to practice law in the state of Michigan, yet he inaccurately cited a law that is inapplicable and is meant to aid the very citizens and law enforcement he is sworn to protect. As a prosecutor, I find (his concern­ ing. I here is no logical, legal or ethical basis for statements that defend or condone behav­ ior that threatens the safety ot Gov. Whitmer, fellow law enforcement, or any other citizen in this country. In Barry County, we have dedicated, fair and honest law enforcement officers in every department. Sheriff Leaf’s statements are his own. They do not and should not tarnish the honor and respect for law enforcement in Barry- County and throughout the country. We, as leaders, should set an example for those who look to us for guidance, strength and hope. I ask for patience with thc justice sys­ tem, support for those whose lives were placed in danger, and that we continue to look out for one another. Respectfully submitted: Julie Nakfoor Pratt, Barry County prosecutor NEWS BRIEFS continued from front page lhc BanyCounty Courthouse sSfe—s also was not notifi ‘nVcsbgation, Leaf said. It hwenforcen^;i.nhe^,ssible.-^» Ixafsaidhewasn ,0,)edb) Ne>r „ .nt at the Barry Cou „ hlH:kvd when aJieutt nan him to say Null had °*,,Ce C‘ ”ft’s still shocki,^chiugt’J. didn’t go to the exi said‘ g* f rt I’m glad the govvr^ni lh*‘t peop,c *erv security team are -di her family and the. “a ” road workers. When you place a sign too close to the n>au. it can interfere with road workers per­ forming essential maintenance duties like mowing or diggingCRA director Denise fenohue said. "It can also obstruct driver ‘Mon rnukmg tor an unsafe environmenl. f ollow mg guidelines for sign placement tv vital to the safety of both toad workers and motorists.” Residents who wish to learn more about political sign pobcies can visit their counts road agency’s wrhsite or call the local ottice. Additiona! information can be foun(1 I KA -• YouTube channel lor the knesl "Out l'NRl“ito7n'\.S 'lde° !" hUp': >ou",be; pick-up begins Monday »f PMk‘up lor ,he Cily l ltv env,,., ^ zar.n^t * * saul. leaves or d‘hl^b’^e,fts not io place drains can h.*’S ’U slr^‘t. where storm debris .should ?°n?pPOrnised: »n<tead. yard »"t obstruct sidewalks'* a'0”8 CU'b and �Ths Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 15, 2020 — Page 3 Scot Miller exchanges opinions with Adam Heikkila. “The threat of violence should never prevent people from speaking out,” Miller said. . Concerned citizens gather at the Barry Community Enrichment Center to express their opinions on Sheri Dar Leaf. A speaker projects the public comment portion of the Barry County Board of Commissioners meeting (oa crowd gathered out­ side. From previous page whole,” DeMaagd added. ‘‘Will more law-abiding citizens, families or entrepre­ neurs seek to move to a county where the sheriff fails to uphold his oath of office? Or will his actions embolden a new demographic of people who seek to bring violence into our community under the guise of a militia?” DeMaagd mentioned the request for a $25-million tax levy for a new jail and sher­ iff’s office and strongly recommended against voting for that proposal under this sheriff. “The future of our jail infrastructure should not be in the hands of a sheriff who sympa­ thizes with individuals indicted for domestic terrorism.” He implored the commissioners to call for Leaf’s immediate resignation. Joe Kujla, of Barry County, condemned the accounts for the way they have played out in the media. “This has got to stop,” he said. “Dar Leaf is protecting my Second Amendment and everyone rise’s Second Amendment. Shame on everybody that brings this up.” . ~ , Scott Savage of Hastings Township said Sheriff Leaf appearing “in the uniform of his office lends increased legitimacy to the caus­ es he and these militias promote.” “Can we really trust his judgment?” Savage asked. “What alarms me the most is that he’s giving his tacit approval to these extremists.” “I’ve heard these gun-toting military types sav they show up al these events and rallies to nrntect the public interest. 1 don t buy that. I ^Tthey brandish their weapons solely to Adam Heikkila, Calhoun County resident and owner of iGeek in downtown Hastings,' engages in a heated discussion with Scot Miller, Hastings resident, about rights,’ masks, and Sheriff Dar Leaf among other issues. Jean Ann Wahl-Piotrowski, a Hastings resident and teacher of 31 years, said she attended the protest because she believes public officials, l'ke °ar Leaf, should be held to a higher moral standard and set a good example for children and fellow citi­ zens. “I’m tired of public officials that aren’t watching their words and their actions and are disregarding science and facts. I think we need to have a higher moral standard for all of us and especially for people who are in leadership positions," Wahl-Piotrowski said. "I felt like I had to be here." Pheasant Ridge Farms—6200 Henry Rd., Hastings Feed Sack Fashions-817 West Green St, Hastings Make Me New Again hosted by Schrock Farm -11183 76th St., Clarksville Friends in the Bam Sale hosted by Rustic Love - 1417 Johnson St., Lake Odessa. Things Collected and Created For You—10961 Dow Rd., Mulliken makes us all less free and less “••Dar Leaf’s actions put us at increased risk r vuLnce We no longer trust and have faith ?{hilities to carry out his duties to protect ^‘^e all of Barry County. We call on the h^cy^aXOTd^fBairy County said a https://goo.gl/maps/SyacwozZB2uAErYC7 ’^ar^f V^v^cm”*y beautifi1.! is °f ‘he“ ~ Hammond said. refused (o condemn men. he is condemned.” the actions of he institutionalist and we she added. Uar H# has j^ty, appreciate *£ munity, he serves hi, church. They take a little tmy smppet and blow it “PNashville said she is Christina Busn comn)ents -seem to troubled that Le • Continued on page 19 Penny Herwarth exchanges opinions with Jean Ann Wahl-Piotrow Barry County Board of Commissioners meeting. Regarding Sheriff * ou‘Siae ine conduct, Herwarth said, “I think we jump to conclusions without knoWing |h f te" �imon Page 4 — Thursday. October 15.2920 - The Hasting! Banner Did you see? A Painting the parking lot Last week in Barry County was a remarkable news week by any measure a,Ujl °Ur Srna^ acquitted itself very The start ot senior year for the Class of 2021 has been unconventional. Out last Friday, Hastings High School seniors created a space of normalcy in a parking lot where they spent the alternoon paint­ ing lines to demarcate the parking spac­ es in the student lot. Luke Richards painted his spot with a (heme from the television show ' Friends." He and other students worked from about 3.15 to p.m. perfecting their pavement master­ pieces. (Photo provided) do you remember? ©cfeber groundbreaking Hanner Oct. II. 1976 A formal groundbreaking ceremony was held Friday. Oct. 8. for the new Country'Club Estates apartment complex on North Broadway in Hastings. Participating were contractor Bob Hoffman. J.C DeBruyn of Kalamazoo, owner of the project, Dave Marshall, Mayor Ivan Snyder. Congressman Garry Brown and Bill Meyer, local FmHA administrator William J. Archambault Jr., developer, said priority for apartments would go to senior citizens and those on the company’s mating list. Mrs. Eloise Wolf of the Commission on Aging said she would arrange for weekly transportation services for senior cr.izens who are to live in the project. Rents are to range from $135 to $230 per month for the one- and two-bedroom units. The development will have 48 apartments in all. Have you met? Karen Zuver, 48. loves animals; and now. after 25 years working as an agronomist, she gets to love animals professionally. In May, the Woodland resident opened a doggy day­ care in Hastings. “Unfortunately, we all work hard, long hours away and our pets build a lot of excite­ ment and energy for when we arrive home — sometimes too much — and that strains the relationship. I want to preside that enriching, positive energy outlet, to allow' lor a good relationship opportunity al home.” Zuver said. Zuver became interested in opening a dog­ gie daycare after her daughter. Anna Zuver. 22, a veterinary assistant, began working for one while in college. Anna Zuver encour­ aged her mother to begin training certifica­ tion through a pel care business consulting and staff training company. “I got training and certification through other programs which gave me more confi­ dence when it came to animals.” Zuver said. “I really love understanding animal behavior and why they do what they do." Jn her 22-year role as an agronomist for Pioneer Seed, Zuver often travelled for work; opening her new- business was an opportunity for her to stay closer to her fam ily and pets. “I was at the point in ins life I wanted to work closer to home and Mart my own busi­ ness in something 1 in passionate about, Zuver said. "The person-to-dog relationship is really important to me. Both species need each other With the dog. it needs someone to take care of him or het. I ot the person, rfs that emotional and mental support that he or ■. . can provide for their prison. Fostering positive relationsh.p between hard week of hard news and her daughter’s lizard. Inking care of the new business — espe­ cially with the additional challenges posed by COVID. 19 - zuvcr haS |jn|c free time. However, w hat free time she has, she spends with her family: her husband of 25 years, Greg Zuver. her son Garret Zuver. 19, a stu­ dent at Michigan State University, and her daughter. Anna Zuvcr who is applying to contmue her veterinary- education at MSU. "'"'‘‘•“Sahara." First job: WOrkiIlg at a grain ‘•|c'i,IorFavonte teadter and “,hj: Mr. Ladd. Xckrndle High Schoo), advanced biology. 1 leJet us pick the Mlbject of our final project. ‘"'Porbmt lesson Jfn)nl childhood: Life s Iragile. just hold a runt P'g|et "* your hands and try t(, k ‘ b. feeding it animals and their owners is the favorite part of her work. “What I love most about my job is seeing the happiness of the ow ner w ith their put - I love that. Not frustration, but excitement from both that they can go home together lor quality time." Zuver said. “It really makes you feel good that you’re helping." Zuver, who has lived in Barry County since 1997, grew up on a farm in Palms, in Sanilac County. That’s where her love of animals began. She interacted with lots of different types of animals growing up — dogs, cats, horses, rabbits, tenets and birds and participated in I H dog shows. Nut nun h has changed since Zuvcr’s youth, in terms of the number of animals she cares lor. On lop of those she lakes care of at work, at home Zuver cunentl) has three dogs, three cats, two horws. a rescue rabbit "“rry c,,un‘v: 1 Something -vdon't know nbon me: I |llVe * JW1iaIly when I get to meet new v*”urv'L 1 Greatest song (.v?!> e‘. .. ••Row Great Thou Art." r written- "u But it was tough. First, wc expedited the production of the local Voters Guide to respond to readers’ requests for it. A 28-pagc section answering frequently asked questions about voting and breaking down the ballot by county, city, township, village and school district was produced Tuesday, ran on the press Wednesday and was inserted in The Banner’Thursday. In lhe last couple of weeks, our reporters visited every polling place in the county, hounded clerks when it was necessary and brought back every detail they could to share with our readership. Thank you to all those candidates and clerks who cooperated and responded to our entreaties. Wc appreciate it. Some of these candidates truly understand the nature of public service and they deserve gold stars. Unfortunately, there were those who did not respond. I will tell you candidly, I reserve a “hall of shame" for those candidates who could not be bothered to provide us with a simple response. Thc courtesy and concern for others that is usually so characteristic of people in Barry' County was not evident when it came to these candidates. In fact, it seemed strange by its absence. I was tempted to run an item in the Voters Guide to single out these miscreants but. as some staff members pointed out when wc discussed lhe issue, there may have been good reasons why some candidates did not respond. Perhaps. But if people choose to run for office, it’s reasonable to think it would occur to them to communicate with our local news staff — die people who routinely cover their school districts, county government, and many government boards and councils week after week. So do they pay attention to what’s going on? If our calls and messages didn’t gel through their communication labyrinth, wouldn’t they wonder at lhe lack of contact? It’s not like this news staff hasn’t been here, covering this community, for many years. From there, you can’t help but wonder about how well they are going to serve their constituents if they can’t return a phone call. Clearly, some of these candidates don’t want to answer questions; they don’t want to be put on lhe spot. Others are apathetic. Then why do they seek office? Passive doesn’t cut it in politics these days. So I’m not sure I accept the fact that non-rcsponders had good reasons for their silence. But I have spoken with a few of the candidates who did not reply by the deadline, so I do know’ that some (not all) had acceptable excuses. In any case, we tried to get answers to our questionnaire from everyone - 100+ candidates - whether they faced any opposition or not. So readers of the Voters Guide should know that, if they don’t see answers from a particular candidate, it’s because we didn’t get their responses. We published every questionnaire we got back. One of the aspects of the 2020 Voters Guide that makes it so special is the fact that a grant from the American Press Institute helped us produce it. Via Zoom Friday, we participated in a virtual meeting with some of the 19 other grant recipients around the United States. During the session, we held up the Voters Guide on screen to show journalists in Alaska, Colorado, Mississippi, Missouri. Ohio. Pennsylvania, Texas and elsewhere just what we were able to accomplish thanks to the grant from API. No sooner had thc Voters Guide hit the streets, a subscriber called about it. What a great call, we told the API group. The subscriber said: “I wanted to vote early, but I was waiting for this.’’ He knew we wouldn’t let him down. One API representative said it was inspirational. We agree. That’s the kind of call that lifts spirits. And last week was a naro development along lhe river in the city of H 'rhen5 thc FBI charged a group from Michigan - including twin brothers wl«> attended Delton Kellogg High School “ plot to storm the State Cap.tol and take some legislators hostage. /Mongstde that plot was another Io kidnap Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. How strange to hear he BBC reporting this story that had tentacles tn this C°Other tragedies abounded: A scuffle between two Middleville men ended with one shooting the other in the arm Monday. An Air Force veteran from Yankee Springs, who turned to bank robbery to pay for his girlfriend’s drug habit, was sentenced Monday to 36 months in federal prison. A horrific high-speed crash on M-179 claimed two lives Thursday. And then, finally, on Friday, Jon Burnett of Orangeville was sentenced to life in prison for the June 2019 killing of his neighbor, Gary Peake, and a young man walking the line for his job, Bryce DeGood of Haslett. Amid all the court proceedings that took place in this case, thc DeGood family stood out as something remarkable and rare. In my years as a reporter, I have never seen such single-mindedness of purpose, such intensity of commitment on the part of a family to ensure that justice was done for their boy. The DeGoods were there in court, day after day. Their attention never wavered, even as they had to relive, through testimony, the details pertaining to the death of their beloved son. They surrounded the prosecutor after proceedings, never rude or pushy, but quietly asking questions and politely demanding answers. The love for their son was palpable. Their grief was visible. They silently wept, but never wavered. And others wept for them. Judge Michael Schipper wept, too. Before he handed down the sentence, the judge offered some insight from his experiences. He strongly condemned lhe abuse of alcohol - which is a drug, he emphasized - combined with medications, more drugs, all of which were found in Burnett’s bloodstream that day. He condemned Burnett for not seeking help for his problems. And he condemned thc inexplicable violence for which Burnett was solely responsible. The judge said he felt anger toward Burnett for his actions: but then Schipper said he thought of his father, whom he revered, and his advice to him about anger. Schipper shared that wisdom in the courtroom Friday: Don’t waste your anger on this man. He’s not worth a moment of your time or your thoughts. He is not worth the energy. Let that anger go, thc judge advised. Burnett will die in prison, he said, and justice will be served. The jury has rendered its verdict and court proceedings have concluded. Sentencing in this case was lhe easy part, he said. Closure? That’s much more difficult. But the judge’s thoughtful words may help point lhe way. We offer our heartfelt condolences to the loving family we saw in that cxmrtaxnn.day after day, so dedicated to the rule of law in lhe interest of justice for their son. And wc give our thanks to all those goodhearted and caring citizens who stopped on that fateful summer day simply to help — an outstanding community characteristic that we pray never goes away. Rebecca Pierce, Editor The Hastings BaiUlCl* Denoted to thc interests of Barry County since 1856 pvbhshodby.. Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Nows and press releases: nows^j adgfaphics.com • Advertising, adsi^jadgraphics com Frederic Jacobs Miowfl.il.es falling y"1-1,1 |,U' lhe beauty of (iod screatton o| ’ "wk. the I:anh- rlks a person who makes the <7*“""” I’"’Do sou know someone ,u“"> ‘' featured because ut vo|Uln... shoul" per­ sonality. for the sto.-; '“"|vls (O«:lh>r "!>> "'her -vam,,;^"': Ration 10 ^"smom.llasti, ^nd '".jM N. "“stiL“a"n“ •' 4905K-. «r ‘■ma.l news... j,,Ml * uPhics com- . ■ vc helps to hear from engaged Jerespecia>lyW Publisher & CEO • advertising CLws.tHK! adapted department FrS?’ • 0X «.m to b 03 p rt,. Hank Schuuring So^rnen M.koG.lmore CFO • NEWSROOM• Rebecca Pierce (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer (Sports Editor) Sophie Bates Greg Chandler Subscription Rates: $S2 per year h B _ -»Op«>o.-1r,nadjo,n,ng count, 565 per year elsewhere postmaster^ s«* Luke Froncheck Taylor Owens Ml 49056-oiM ____ ’ Ty Greenhold Jennie Yonker •1 Hasl-’gs 49053 Co ’ �Tho Holings Banner — Thursday. October 15, 2020 — Pago 5 Vote Are we heading down a path of authoritarian rule? To the editor: How clueless arc the Republicans - or arc they just heartless hypocrites? Congressional candidate Peter Meijer, state ep. Julie Calley, and Senate candidate John James proudly support Donald Trump, a man u"° allows Russian President Vladimir Putin to place bounties on our troops; separates families and places them in concentration camps where men, women and babies have died, in addition to forced sterilization by way of unnecessary hysterectomies: calls thc virus that caused the death of 215,000 Americans *a hoax*; inspired a plot to kidnap and hang our governor to liberate Michigan; calls our military war heroes “losers” and ‘‘.suckers;*’ and so much more. Where are thc people of faith on this human and societal carnage? Evangelical support for Trump seems hypocritical in that he is the least Christ-like president in my lifetime. For those who oppose fetal stem cell research based on religious grounds, how can they embrace Trump’s use of his "miracle” COVID-19 therapy which - drum roll - was derived from such fetal tissue? Character is supposed to matter, that is, unless you arc a Republican. For strict constitutionalist Republicans, how can they sit idly by and let Trump, his swamp creatures, and our county sheriff lake us down the path of authoritarian rule? It’s Germany 1930s all over again. Fascism is alive and well in America, enabled by Republicans. Most people have made up their minds on lhe election. Whal I say here might make little difference, but 1 can’t sit by and let American democracy die without a fight. Chris Lukasiewicz, Hastings Bridging, healing the divide can begin now Tb the editor: What are your plans for after Election Day? Yes, some people will be elated, and perhaps feeling smug, that their selection for president was thc winner; whereas others will be disappointed and may feel that they were wronged because their candidate will not be in the Oval Office. But. here in Barry County, will we be going to back to "business as usual”? What will the atmosphere be Nov. 4 (or whenever the election results arc considered final)? Throughout the U.S., civil discourse has become increasingly uncivil. Our disagreements have led to broken relationships, ruined friendships and the inability to have a conversation with someone whose opinion is different from ours. I am guilty of "snoozing” or completely disengaging with people who had been positive influences in my life because our values and beliefs started clashing. As thc scales of "us versus them,” “right versus wrong," "progressive versus conservative” fall from my eyes. I am again seeing our similarities and that they are more important than our differences. How do we start bridging that divide? How do we heal the wound, thc pain, thc anger? We must talk with our friend, family member, neighbor, coworker. Somehow, we must reach out and be willing to be vulnerable and to say w’e wronged them. More importantly, wc also must listen, really hear them. Walk in their shoes. Look through their eyes. I would hope this is happening all over the country, but why not make Barry County an example of how a community can heal after an exhausting election season? Heck, it doesn’t have to be after - we can start reaching out now. Christina Bush, Nashville Who doesn't love a fence? । To the editor. ■ "Mending Wall” is a poem by Robert Frost: Here are some excerpts: He (Mr. Frost’s neighbor) only says: “Good fences make good neighbors." If I (Mr. Frost) could put a notion in his head: “Why do they (fences) make good neighbors?” He says again: “Good fences make good Nero still fiddling while Rome burns To the editor: All that is going on right now reminds me of a story of Rome in thc year 62 AD "Quo Vadis.” Rome bums, Nero fiddles. Christianity rises, but at what cost? Good people, young and old Christians, are blamed for the burning of Rome. The non-Christians want revenge for the burning of Rome. Nero blames the Christians and the rest is history. Does Nero remind you of somebody? I don’t need to say his name. Michael Ainslie, Delton Clinics offer great prep for all-female bike race To the editor: For the last several years, Lauren fnpp and Colleen Watson have partnered with the YMCA of Barry County to put on mountain biking clinics. The clinics focus on even thing from proper technique, tire pressure for he inP safety and how to change a tire tube. They work hard and generously share their nassVn enthusiasm and expertise; while encouraging women to join the eychng ranks in,BryCXn'several of their clinics, lhe 1 ha'e., t in preparation for the all-female most recent m prep d park mountain bike race m “Skirts in the Dirt. thc race without ! would notI M> v s|lpp<,n. |t turned their encourage j„ coninlll. 0Ut to be a great day.,ba nily Of *°?“^ hnical|y challenging course, “enjoying Uielccm a Hastings resiHeartfelt She entered the dent, o,‘ve.D^‘rI» category (females under -Squirts m the D ^er mother Cutie Case. 12), accompat)ast raCer to cross the She may Have" lhe bjggesl smile finish line, but did so and the coolest b>U Hanin,Ond, Podunk Mike neighbors.” Here is my response to Mr. Frost‘d question above in his poem: 1 say: "Good neighbors need no fences.” "Cals need no fences .’’(They can jump over anyway.) "Undomesticated animals need no fences.” (Unless they want to harm me, then I need a fence.) So who needs a fence? I say, “Dogs and other domesticated ani­ mals.” (For their safety.) How would you answer these questions? Let’s hear from the experts: Fence sellers. These are my thoughts, as I stare al my neighbor’s fence. Steve Williams, Hastings The difference, to sum it up To the editor: The difference between me and a lol of my friends: You see Trump’s arrogance, I see Trump’s confidence. You see Trump’s nation­ alism; I see Trump’s patriotism. You hear Trump’s unsophisticated words; 1 hear Trump’s honesly. You see Trump’s racism, I see Trump’s words being misconstrued and twisted by the media daily to fit their narra­ tive. You see Trump as a Republican. I see Trump as a patriot. You see Trump as a dicta­ tor, I see Trump as a leader. You see Trump as an authoritarian, I see Trump as the only one willing to fight for our freedoms. You see Trump as childish, 1 see Trump as a fighter, unwilling to cave in to the lies. You sec Trump as an unpolished politician. I see Trump as a breath of fresh air. You think Trump hates immigrants; I know Trump is married to an immigrant. You see Trump putting an end io immigration in America, I see Trump wel­ coming immigrants to America LEGALLY You see Trump’s cages at lhe border; I see Obama’s cages al the border. You sec Trump with a struggling economy, I see Trump with an amazing economy - until the Democrats shut it down. You sec thc violence in the streets and call it "Trump’s America,” | see the violence in the streets of Democratic-run cities that are refusing Trump’s help and call it "Liberal America.” You want someone more presidential, I’m happy wc have someone who finally doesn’t just talk the talk, but actually walks the walk I may not always agree on lhe methods the president uses to achieve his goals, but I do admire and appreciate that he knows what needs to lx* done. You and I? We see things very differently. °n jail Tb thc^^iwillbc^ . x. A bond county jaj| phc Nov. 3 ballot for a new with a debt Uf,s P™' posal willton n$ is that a u Million. P What this ,n 50 OOO wj|| with a tax­ able value ol • nli|| whi e an estimated levy of 01 7.r<able vaIUe,aiId. *°I722 per $ 1,000 of the 1‘ of the JCvdvd,n«uPto$H.61 in the first* will inc^’^.Owcv«. ’he beyond. ubsUntially in amount to be P the second yc c For the year of\ ?b,c v«luc of $50JXX).ih<^ cost the hoineo*ne 91 to a vy will increase pX ,:sl,.2046ui’iii the $25 mi (oxable Val ‘ s ^CCP in mind that 1 t0 appreciation (.c of thc home increases due J . the amount to be paid "r1 luo poW oul' S°mclhin8 ^e county fail project wilt • If aPProVcd,’| ).bed facility ’ lndudc con’ struclion of a 11 . ].„rad >• a new sheriff’s office, a conunc^grade udr>, ilntion system organizestorage area to mmntai inmate property. Though these are the g<£ outlined fo"this multi-milhon-d • • there are no answers for vote cu ^ther a new jail would be built on » site, whether an existing industry ? w,u he renovated to meet their go ‘ current property sold or whether 5 ill purchase new P There arc far lO^^yiJ?estioi“ remaining about this proposed newjatl projec| and as a voter in Barry County, I cannot in science support this bond. The county commissioned consulti firm TowerPinkster al a cost of $70,000 to conduct two studies tor a proposed jaii } would like to know w ytheir proposal was the only one considered, hen $25 million is at stake, competitive options are necessary. There is then the question of location. How is it possible to determine the cost of such a massive project when a location hasn’t even been chosen? The costs would be affected by not only this decision, but also whether the current jail would have to be demolished, whether a new structure would be built or whether an existing structure would be reno­ vated and redesigned. The cost would be dif­ ferent — it cannot be the same with each choice. So, how’ will the funds be managed then? And how’ can the cost be accurately calculated? Another question left to hang by Barr)' County Commissioners is thc average number of inmates over the past few years and lhe out­ look for thc next few years. Are more beds really needed? We don’t know without having this information. There is far too much at stake for Barry' County voters to merely guess at what thc need truly is. And for me, what lakes the proverbial cake is the taxpayers will be paying more than $12,000 so the county can promote this bond proposal. Thc plan includes 1 website detailing the bond proposal, what thc commissioners deem to be "frequently asked questions,” and the printing and distributing of brochures. Yes, 1 see this as promotional and, though I am cur­ rently against passing this proposal, my lax dollars will be used to push it forward. As a side note, Commissioner Jon Smelker stated these efforts are “not considered promotional material; it’s educational." It’s time to ask some hard questions and demand answers based on sound information. Taxpayers cannot keep taking hit after hit to their hard-earned income. If the financial bur­ den continues at the rate it has been over the past recent ycars.it isn’t only our bank accounts that will dwindle.The county also will have to tighten its belt because there will be little incentive for current residents to stay or young families to move here - meaning less money for the commissioners to spend on "informa­ tional” materials. Sheriff’s sense of right and wrong is downright embarrassing i To the editor: Sheriff Dar is a Fox-17 7 V star, a big fish in our liny Barry County media puddle. He might really thrive in a bigger media market. Maybe he should dial up The Detroit News. 7he reporters there would be all ears. This, from The Detroit News: T wo of the top-tier elected Republicans in Michigan arc House Speaker Ixe Chatfield and Rep. Jason Wentworth from Clare.They recently had this to say about Paul Smith, a Republican candidate for slate representative from Macomb County: "Conspiracy theories and hateful remarks," from Smith ... "is why thc House Republican Campaign Committee is not supporting him and will not spend one dime to gel him elected.” "Chatfield on Sunday doubled down on the House GOP campaign committee’s statement, calling Smith a ‘loser’ in a tweet.” “If you can’t denounce the evil plans and actions of these while nationalists, we don’t want you in our caucus," Chatfield said. "In fact, if there’s any ‘Republican’ who thinks like this guy, we don’t want your vote either. We don’t support domestic terrorism.” “Tlie recent terrorist plot that was foiled at lhe state Capitol is horrifying,” Chatfield and Wentworth said Saturday. "First responders, legislators, the governor and the public were all targeted, and we denounce these depraved and illegal actions.” Ail of the above quotes arc truly word for word, taken directly from the Oct. 10 article in the Detroit News. These are very strong words, especially so close to thc election. Mr. Smith’s problems come from his own words, as publicly posted on Facebook. Again, word for word from lhe Detroit News: "What a totally bogus sham,” Smith commented. “These Citizens never did anything illegal. Law enforcement is employed to punish people who COMMIT’ crimes, not people The Governess simply HATES.” In Mr. Smith’s weird world, conspiring with more than a dozen other losers to plan violent crimes against police, and against elected officials, and against common citizens' is somehow not a crime. Thank gtxxJncsv Chatfield and Wentworth made it very clean that Mr. Smith’s twisted, perverted world? view Docs Not represent mainstream' Republican thought. On the same subject. Barry County Sheriff’ Dar Leaf shared his own thoughts w ith Fox 1'Z news. “It’s just a charge, and they say a ‘plot toj kidnap’ and you got to remember that." Leaf told Fox 17 lliursday. "Are they trying to; kidnap? Because a lot of people are angry with the governor, and they want her arrested.! So are they trying to arrest, or was it a kidnap? attempt? Because you can still in Michigan if. it’s a felony, make a felony arrest." Again, this’ is a word-for-word direct quote from the Fox17 website. ’• Dar Leaf and Paul Smith are clearly! political blood-brothers. Leaf has assumed the? role of apologist-in-chief for a band of Tim-; McVeigh-wannabee domestic terrorists. This bunch would love to wreak harm and mayhem, on our police, our elected officials, and yes,? even on us. Given Dar’s past public uttering.?,' I am hardly surprised. ? Dar Leaf’s infantile sense of right and wrong is downright embarrassing. Our sheriff! has become a running joke for the rest of. Michigan and well beyond. I don’t want our? county to be a laughingstock. Oh, how I wish’ I had someone else, anyone else, from any; party, to vote for in this election. I see signs* for "Any Functioning Adult in 2020.” Dar. Leaf does not rise to that standard. ;? I’m really glad to hear that any ordinary, citizen can arrest any elected official for; strictly stupid political reasons, though, it; would be so much fun to arrest Dar Leaf for his blatant dereliction of duty in enforcing the? law of the land, an obvious felony. ? But that might violate mainstream? Republican thought. I would never want to do1 that. • ’ I Brian Reynolds,’ Hastings Concern: The proposed new county jail To thc editor: While 1 do not argue the fact that we need an updated facility, I do question the lack of transparency throughout lhe process. When our local schools make a bond request for new structural and building updates as we have recently finished, no stone is left unturned. As voters, we are always provided intimate details of how lhe funds will be used. Being a retired teacher married to a retired superintendent of schools, my wife and I are well aware that, if a new building proposal is to be passed, it must include detailed specifics up to. and including, the building site. You are asking lhe residents of Barry County to vote “yes” for the proposal before wc know the details of the proposal. If we were to vole "yes,” you would then have carte blanche power to do whatever you wanted to do. Thus, we have to vote for it to find oul what is in it. Persistent closed sessions about this matter by lhe board and denying the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to know what is being proposed using our tax dollars is very disconcerting. After diligent research, it has become apparent that the location of the new jail is the issue not being publicly discussed. Of course, lhe current location has been one proposal - but I am not so sure that is a good idea. The property the jail currently occupies, is commercially worth $15 million to $3 mil­ lion. My opinion would be to sell it to a developer for more senior housing, which wc Jerry Greenfield, definitely need. It also would bring in proper­ Hastings ly tax revenue for years to come. However, I also know that the old Hastings Fiberglass factory on Cook Road in Rutland Township is also a consideration - I am not speculating - I definitely know this is a fact. I cannot understand why that location would even be considered as it sits next to developed neighborhoods with a lot of families, children To the editor: and senior citizens. Are you aware of the A little poem for°ur voters to think about: Current plight inspires verse effect it would have on property values? Na one wants to hve near a prison or a jail out of? safely for their families, not to mention the? light pollution every night. When property* values declined, so would the assessed tax’ value on each our properties, thus, less reve­ nue for lhe county. Wouldn’t it be a better idea for the old Hastings Fiberglass factory be' sold to another company that also would pay? taxes for many years to come? ‘ The one option that seems to be most v’u< ble, and apparently is not even on the draw’mt. board, is lhe 9 to 10 acres of vacant landbehind the Aldi’s Store which the city of! Hastings owns. The city is ready to give it to? you “free of charge." This is a win-win see-’ nario for every one as the jail would be in :r more secluded area away from families and; still within the city limits. In addition, you would have $15 million to $3 million avail-? able when the current property is sold, plus? the tax revenue from that same property as* well as also encouraging some factory facility; to go into the old Hastings Fiberglass building­ adding even more lax revenue. This would* mean fewer funds would be needed to build? the new jail. ? In closing, I do not support the current pro-* posal for a new jail. I sincerely believe you have spent loo much of our tax dollars on a? consulting firm that has produced very little - twice. Thai’s more than $200,000. When a new proposal is introduced with; complete transparency and also puts our taxdollars to its best use, I will then publicly, support lhe proposal for a new jail. Thank you very much for your valuable time and consideration. t I Jeff Bennett.' Hastings? < Editor’s Note: This letter also was present­ ed to the Barry' County commissioners at them board meeting Tuesday in Hastings. ? "Hoisted” Has our boisterous president For lhe pandemic no regard? Now he has tested positive Hoisted on his own petard? A leader once so cavalier, lying; Proving he is not up to a task Of leading this gnrat country In mocking for his mask. Who in February started lying To the pubic when he’d say, “It is just a normal flu season Like a miracle, it will go away.” A naysayer who belittles science, Disregarding all medical advice. Can we infer itIS P°ctic justice?” He, loo, is now pay mg tbe pncc9 Over 200,(XX) deaths, An economy in shatters, Believing rc elet‘!°" for another term Is the only thing mat matters. Bismarck God protects Drunkards, damn fools - (j s anvi.oW rm sure hoping that Gt)d Because we sure <to hi|)| n<w Paid lex with r®g alateo ELECT DEMOCRATS NOVEMBER 3 rd Gini Haffner, Battle Creek Jim Erwin. Nashville �Page 6 — Thursday. October 15. 2020 — The Hastings Banner SUSPECT, continued from page 1 The cleanup w ill take weeks, as the smoke and heat slowly dissipate. ; To Gettys, the most important fact about lhe fire is that no one was killed or injured, which she attributed to the hard w ork of the (oca) firefighters. “Il could have been just a horrific (ire. Gettys said. “At the end of the day. it’s bricks and mortar. No lives were lost. Nobody got iJnirt.” t She also was thankful the wind wasn l strong enough to cause the (ire to spread. ~ “It w asn’t terrible windy, which was good, Eaton said. “Had it been a 20- to 25-mph wind, that would have been a different story . Thc amount of dew on the ground in the Cold, early morning hours likely helped pre­ vent the fire from spreading. Eaton said. Even though the fire was massive, the job for the firefighters on lhe ground was relative­ ly straightforward. he added. His department got the call sometime after 3:30 a.m. Eaton and three other members ol the department jumped on a truck and headed mlo Hastmgs. As they drove, thc firefighters could listen to radio chatter from members of the Hastings department who were already on scene. ~ 11 They could the fire light up the night .. .|Way, liaton said. Jrfrea '.’’Xj ihcir tool-- h>’<>k‘d *“fI’* •' hydX north of the building, laid doo n a Xdiiuneter hose and Maned sprayrng. H1C initial call was prompted by an odor, mxsibly smoke, in thc area, reports said. P Bv (he time Caris had arrived at the scene, a third of the building was on fire. It had spread even further by the time the other departments arrived. .Since the building was already empty, thc firefighters’ priority was containment. "You have more fire load there than you got water, so you’re just containing it.” Eaton said. , “On that particular scene there rsn t really a lol to do,’’ he added. “Basically,you go up and relieve the guy who’s been sitting on that noz­ zle for a half an hour." it was too late to save Royal Coach, but damage to lhe nearby Hastings Manufacturing Company was prevented. Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks" will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • ‘ Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. CHUROT^PQNSORS; 31p6.8^1.83(^in; Black; - Worship Together ...at the church of your choice Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "An Expression Of Who Jesus Is To The World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Huy. P.O. Box 8. Hastings. Telephone 269-945­ 9121. Email hastfmcfc gmail. coin- Website: www.hastings frecn.’cllK’ihalA'vin- Pastor Bnan Teed. Student Ministries Director. Emma Miller. Worship Director, Martha Stoetze!. Sunday Morning Worship: 9am and 10:30 am. beginning June 21 until further notice. Due to the current health crisis, our nursery is temporarily closed and we arc temporarily suspending all Children's ministries. Our church sanctuary is set up for social distancing. We do not require uraring masks, but do encourage it. especially while walking through the building before and after services Please keep your family together during the worship service. We are a mult'-gcnerationa! church family and understand that while this could mean outbursts or potty­ breaks. u e an- not inconvenienced by your little one. In an effort to help you, we are presiding weekly activity bags for each child. Dicsc bags are to be taken home ur disposed of after each use. ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. 269-945-4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip. Mass 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Mass 8 and 11 a.m Sunday. 301 E. State Rd.. P.O. Box 273. Hastings. Ml 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website. uAvuJifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6.30 p.m HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Matt Moser. Lead Pastor. Sunday Sen ices: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday. Family Night 6:30-8 p.m. Kids 4 Truth (Children Kindcrgartcn-5th Grade). 6:30-8 p.m. Middle Schoo! Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 I^icey Road. Douling. Ml 49050. Pastor. Steve Olmstead (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 10 am. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Breadway, Hastings, Ml 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday. 9:45 a.m. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 4887 Coats Greve Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel-chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Tune 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. 7025 Milo Rd.. P.O. Box 765. (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M-43). Delton. Ml 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool. (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10.30 to 11:30am, Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 to 7*30 pm. CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PGA) John Edward Mantle, age 80* passed away at home on Thursday. Oct. 8. 2020. He was bom in London. England on June 1940Three weeks after his birth, the Battle of Britain began. His life was .shaped by the harrowing experiences of a tiny boy growing up in the shadow of war. After high school graduation, his first job was writing captions for a local news service. He eventually landed a position with United Press International on Fleet Street. In 1964. he was posted to Moscow as a photographer. He returned to London in 1967 to work as a foreign correspondent, covering breaking news in over 70 countries. He then served six years in Buenos Aires before moving to the United Slates in 1975. After leaving UP1 in 1986. he published the Alexandria (VA) Gazette. John met Carol Rose in an elevator in Chicago in 1978. During their 38-year marriage, they weathered life’s ups and downs with mutual love and devotion. John’s dream was to run his own paper, so in 1988 they purchased tbe Fort Mil! limes, a weekly newspaper in South Carolina. Covering thc local news was far and away his favorite job and those years were the happiest of his journal istncareer. In early 1997. John suffered a massive stroke. He could not speak, his right side was paralyzed.He was told he would never walk again. But being a stubborn Englishman, be proved everyone wrong. After three months of intensive rehab, he was able to walk with a pronounced limp. He later passed his driving exam, and was eventually able to relum to flying small planes, his great passion. After his stroke, he published a memoir of his recovery. Cy clops Awakes. It ivas followed by a novel. The Bloody Waf. Mate, loosely based on his early life growing up in wartime London. In 2007, John and Caro! traded one small town for another when they moved to Hastings. Carol’s home town. He was active in the Hastings Flying Association, and volunteered with the Barry County Humane Society and with the food pantry sponsored by Barry County Cares. John was preceded in death by his mother. Margaret Powell Mantle; father, Arthur Edward Mantle, and stepfather Conway Gordon-Fox well. John is survived by his wile. Caro) Rose­ Mantle; daughters, Victoria Mantle and Emma (Wes) Mathurin and grandson. Tristan Ramos; sister, Jean Collins: brother. Conway (Barbara) Gordon-Foxwell; sister-in-law. Susan (Carl) Mansfield: brother-in-law, Dean (Sandy) Rose. Margllret Mantle, niother of his daughters: and numerous nieces and nephews. John was grateful for the support and friendship he shared with his l>mg partner, Kirk Emlinger, and his home Sch ’ a‘ nS’ Cynthia Anderson and Tracy ^ciusser. He leaves behind his two precious sou^T «l»> 'VCrC ’ source of love ail(ll)(;1 hie) daw’0"8'S<rvicc wil*** SChcdlllCd a‘ “ 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616-690 8609. In lieu of Howers, donations may be made o Barry County Can... the »arr>' Counl> Humane Society, the Commission on Aging o^XieeSUPP0r,Gra'‘>’-'’rl,’eCbari'yOf This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Arrangements bj .,,-h Funeral Home. Hustings, Michigan T leave online condolences fc n- 10 WWw girrbachfuneralh,,,,^.^^" A1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 exfob 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 Call 269.945.9554 ,or Hastings Banner clMied ads Walter Russell Eavey, age 87. of Middleville, passed away at his home on Sunday, Oct. 11,2020. Walt was bom on January 9. 1933 in Grand Rapids to Russell and Stella (Kelpsas) Eavey. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Walt married the love of his life, Margaret “Mike” Elwood, on June 27, 1954. He worked at Geukes Meats before becoming a tool and die maker until his retirement. Walt was a Thomapple Township Trustee and served in that role for over 20 years. He had a long list of volunteering for the township and Middleville, including the Barry County Red Cross where he was named Barry’ County Disaster Services Volunteer of the Year. Veteran of lhe Year in 2015, Thomapple Township Emergency Services firefighter (when it was the Middleville Fire Department), and Charlton Park volunteer. He was a founding member of lhe Middleville Lions club, founding member of Thomapple Area Parks and Recreation, and on the Barry County Parks & Recreation Board. Walt was involved in the Barry County Fair with the Barry County Antique Tractor Club, and was honored to be awarded the recipient of Middleville’s Hometown Hero, and Distinguished Alumni award. Faith was important to Walt; he was a member of the Middleville United Methodist Church and was involved with the United Methodist Men group. He also rooted for his favorite baseball team lhe Detroit Tigers. For eight years, Walt and his wife were volunteer lighthouse keepers at Michigan lighthouses, including their favorite. Big Sable in Ludington. They also worked for the National Parks Service at the Casa Grande Ruins Monument in Coolidge. Arizona for several years. Above all. Wall was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He will be dearly missed by his loving family. Walt is survived by his wife, Mike; children: Connie (Rick) Hicks, Alan (Val) Eavey. Timothy Eavey, Sherri (Tim) Hall: seven grandchildren: nine great grandchildren; brother, Richard (Joanne) Eavey. Friends and relatives met with the family on Tuesday, Oct. 13, at lhe Beeler-Gores Funeral Home in Middleville. A graveside service with military' honors provided by lhe American Legion Post 45 was held Wednesday. Oct. 14. 2020 at Mt. Hope Cemetery with Pastor Tony Shumaker officiating. Memorial contributions to the Caledonia American Legion Post 305 will be appreciated. Please visit www. beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or leave a condolence message for Wall’s family. Gabos, loving wife, mother, grandmother, sisler. aunt, and friend died at the age of 83. She passed away peacefully, with her family present, at her Pine Lake Plainwell home of 63 years, alter battling vascular dementia for lhe past few years. Yvonne was born on January 22, 1937. in Kalamazoo, to Ixonard Monroe Harris and Dorthca Rose Harris. Yvonne graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School in 1955 and was proud to be a Maroon Giant. On January 5. 1957. she married the love of her life. Joseph Edward Gabos. He was her rock and confidant and most recently lhe most loving and compassionate caregiver. Together they raised their two daughters. Linda French and Gail Vedder, of whom she could not have been more proud. The joys of her life were her grandchildren. She also loved gloating about how she didn’t look old enough to be a “great” grandma. She was dearly loved by many wonderful nieces and nephews. Yvonne was that lady who couldn’t get through a meal at a local Delton restaurant without someone coming up to her. They recognized her as their childhood bus driver (driving 42 years for Dehon Kellogg Schools), their election judge, square dancing friend, or the one who made their wedding or graduation cake. She loved living in a small town where basically every one knew her name. Yvonne loved many things in life: Baking, sewing, fishing, square dancing, and saving all of the neighborhood stray cats were among her favorites. Her family and friends will always remember her when they see a hummingbird, a bouquet of carnations (her favorite "because they live so long’’), or while making her signature cake frosting or rhubarb pic. Her beautiful life and legacy will live on in her family and friends forever. She was preceded in death by her parents, Leonard and Dorthea Harris and her sister, Lorraine Boyd. She is survived by her husband. Joseph Gabos; brother. Leonard Harris Jr.; daughters. Linda French and Gail Vedder; grandchildren, Justin (Shona) French. Joshua (Christina) French. Micaela (Dana) Elzea, Mallory Vedder. and Marley Vedder; and great grandchildren. Kay lee and Diana French. Due to the ongoing pandemic, a funeral sendee will not be held at this time oul of extreme care and compassion for the health of everyone. A celebration of life gathering will likely be held in summer of 2021. Please visit vvww.vvilliamsgoresfuneral.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Yvonne’s family. Daniel David Feather Daniel David Feather, age 83 of Grand Rapids, died Tuesday, f ’ October 13,2020. Daniel was bom in Berrien Springs, in 1936 and graduated in 1959 from Michigan State University with a degree in horticulture. Daniel was a member of lhe ROIC and Army Reserves. He married Wihna in 1961. They owned and lived on a fruit farm in Berrien Springs and later he went on to work in soil conservation for the US Government and then continued to work in thc Equalization Department of Barry County. Dan loved Howers, especially red roses, gardening, bird watching, fishing and of course his Spartans. He enjoyed a good game oi chess, was an avid reader, loved to socialize and also a good meal at Red Lobster. Dan and Wilma were active members of St. Rose of Lima Parish in Hastings, for 40 years. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Edith Feather and brother, Thomas Feather. Daniel is survived by his wife ol 59 years, Wihna; children, Cindy (Larry) Brunkemn and Greg (Amy) Feather; five grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren; brother, John (Eileen) Feather; sister, Lenore Rhodes; aunt, 'fSgrSSr ’ lo h p.m. at O Bricn.F:CCcbwn.Gcr>t Funeral Home. 3980 Cascade Rd.. SE with a wi’ll be ■'l l '' P i"! ol 1 llrisl‘ “' Burial u lx .elebntted Friday. Oct. 16,2020 al 11 . I,.. Beltline sj‘U Sm!r^(^cK‘iU;iOn ’ ,55° E 49506 * ’ Grand Rapids. Ml �x- ' . fl look back at the stories an(J columns on local history ' In the Hastings Banner turning k BACK THE I PAGES Table company prospers after Emil Tyden invents lock device The Quality Store MaVn8st., ^eo^uk’ l°wa) f°r Linguist Bros, is a culmination of shorter ads earlier in the week. Thi5 ad. ^r°r^ory 0| the Hasf14’ It reads. feacj |he ent- ln9s Table - The sections of the Hastings Table advertisement have appeared one at a time for the past wee . -ng (he tab[ story, then decide to own a Hastings." Appealing to a particular customer base, each frame features -The Malcj*Copgress image) emovin9the top. resting the top on the floor, taking the top away and finally, pushing the base away. The former Hastings Table Company was 100 feet in length for the first 18 or so years. Emil Tyden’s locking mechanism boosted sales, and the factory prospered. Its size was doubled around 1907-08. This photo is from the late 1890s. Kathy Maurer Copy Editor According to memories shared by the late Marshall Cook, the oldest part of the former Royal Coach building that burned last week would have marked 130 years this year. The first 100 feet of the building nearest East Mill Street was built in 1890; lhe second 100 feet, closer to the river, was added about IS years later. Tlte Hastings Table Company occupied the building for lhe first 40 years of its existence, and the Royal Coach travel trailer manufacturer for another 15 years, from 1940 to 1955. Since the mid-1900s. the building was used primarily as a warehouse by Hastings Manufacturing Company. The brick structure with hardwood interior in the early 2000s was considered as a site for the Hastings Public Library and, more recently, it was the proposed venue for apartments. For most of the 55 or so years when it was an active factory, however, thc products that left the plant were top of the line. A February 1896 Headlight publication reported of the Hastings Table Company. "The managers ... will continue, as heretofore, to exclude all cheap grades, and cater only to first-class trade.” >Xboul 75 men worked at the plant at the time, and the article noted that the factory had capacity for a large business. According to an ad in thc 1945 Barry County Plat Book. "Royal coaches are noted for their exceptional value, quality construction, improved design and beauty. See a Royal Commander before you purchase a new' trailer. You will be glad you did. Prior to 1889. the city was lacking in factories, and businessmen led a campaign to raise money, from business owners and residents, to attract more industry to Hastings. Marshall Cook, co-owner of the Banner, shared many of his memories in the paper over the decades. His recollections of the process and history- of those early factories was published in the May 1956 centennial edition of the Banner. The following is in regard to the fourth factory in the drive, the Table Company. He also mentions the first three. For reader reference, the Hastings Furniture Company became the Grand Rapids Bookcase and Chair Co. and was bordered by what is now Anole and State streets, from Wendy s westward toward Cass Street. The WoolI Born Company was near Railroad Street, where Padnos now stands. The Whip Company■ wa near Hanover and Center streets, now the site of Cary Display. ,1,.- ■" continued through the nex. >< * • • Hastings Table Company, wltieh we will now consider. w fro(tl Grand I I -1 L 1880s While living Gralld Ledge m the lo»us. »» Ledge, he was in close touc^ )any> successful Grand Ledge ■ carefully was a natural mechanic and obse cd care u > lhe methods used in that flounshmg plant Raisc WO^ cairitul ,w Mr In the em'y Wimer afactory, similar Evarts suggested tna< “ to the one in Grand Ledge, would be a fine industry to add to Hastings, which was then aggressively seeking new factories. Three had already been launched here in 1889 and early 1890: The Hastings Furniture Company, the Michigan Wool Boot Company and the Michigan Whip Company Thc appetite for factories was still keen, and Mr. Evarts’ suggestion was taken seriously. In a short time, the $20,fXX) capital was taken locally, with Mr. Evarts the largest subscriber.The city gave 10 percent, of $2,(XX) additional, as it did with the Hastings Furniture Company and the Michigan Whip Company. The new company was incorporated as the Hastings Chair and Table Company. Mr. Evarts was a stickler for doing things right. He urged the directors of the new company to build a brick plant, since it was more economical to maintain; also that a factory- without inside stairways and with heavy floors would furnish a better foundation for machines and would considerably reduce the cost of insurance. He proved that a Corliss engine was more economical than a slide­ valve engine. Add to capital When the company completed its threestory plant, 36 by 100 feet, installed its Corliss engine and the other machinery- and equipment necessary to carry the business in 1890, it was evident that S22.000 was not sufficient; so, $103)00 more was subscribed and added to the capital, which was therebyincreased to S32.OOO. That left some money, but not enough for working capital. The factory started making a line ofchairs and tables late in 1890. but the design for its line did not appeal to the trade. So, the line was changed to dining tables alone in 1892; but the trade was still very low for the same reason. When the annual inventory was taken in December 1892, thc final figures showed that the company had lost a considerable sum of money, and something radical must be done to save it from bankruptcy. The director consulted with Dan Reynolds, cashier of the City Bank, who was a member of the Chair and Table Co.’s board of directors. They asked him if he thought the seven owners of the Wool Boot Company — \v R Cook having added to the original six — could be induced to take over the table plant and business. Mr. Reynolds told them he could not answer for thc stockholders of the Wool Boot Company. He suggested that the Table Company directors work out a proposition they thought was fair, anj would submit it to the Wool Boot Company The Chair and Table company directors considered the matter. Interlocking directory They learned from an examination of t|K. stock book that thc seven Woo! Boot Company directors already owned about $6j000 of the Table Company’s stock. So. they agreed among themselves that they would be willing to increase the capital stock from $32,000 i0 $60,000, and issue thc $28,000 additional to the stockholders ol the Wool Boot company if they would pay the fable company $6,000 cash for it. also providing that lhe seven men also would take over the management ot the Chair and Table company. After giving the matter consideration lor a time, the Wool ^nck°n>Pany directors accepted the proposition hoping to save the industry tor the town and prevent its going into a receivership.0 <-t)ur>e.thcy also hoped that they could put 1 factory on a profit­ paying basis. Accordingly. u[e directors of the Hastings Chair and I able Company, except Mr. Reynolds, resigned one by one. and the six other members of the Wool Boot companysucceeded (hem as directors. The new board consisted of Chester Messer, Clement Smith, R.B. Messer. P.T. Colgrove. W.R. Cook. Reynolds and ML- Cook. The new men took over the management and direction of the Chair and Table Company­ in January 1893, a little over a month before the severe panic of 1893 began. Shorten firm name 'l he new directors decided they would not make chairs, so the name ol the company was shortened to the Hastings Table Company. The officers were the same as the Wool Boot Company: Chester Messer, president; R.B. Messer, vice president; Dan W. Reynolds, treasurer; and M.L. Cook, secretary. In our January 1904 line, we brought out some new designs in pedestal dining tables. Dealers bought a few of them, but complained of thc unsightly gap in the segments of the table. The pedestal had to be cut in two in order to make the table extension to 6, 8. 10 or 12 feet, as desired. When the extra leaves were taken out and the original square or round table alone remained, one looking at the pedestal would be quickly and unfavorablyimpressed with that unsightly gap were the pedestal was di\ided. R.B. Messer, who then was salesman for the Wool Boot Company, always attended the Grand Rapids furniture sales, in July and January-, as a representative ol the Table Co The trade [representatives] told him lhe trouble they experienced in selling our table. Designs new lock After lhe July Grand Rapids furniture sale was over for that year, Mr. Messer came home and explained this trouble to Emil Tyden. whose inventive genius had been demonstrated in the International Seal Factory. Mr. Jyden said nothing, but he began thinking about the matter seriously. Sometime before the 1905 January sale was to begin. Tyden had worked out and tried out a pedestal lock he had devised, which held the two segments of the pedestal leg tightly together and made it a thing of beauty instead of an ugly-looking HASTINGS TABLES Are fitted with " the earned enough so that the brick plant was doubled in size, making it 200 by 36 feet. We also added a nice surplus to our original’ $60,000 capital stock. However, thc styles* again changed three or four years after Mr/ Tyden invented his locking device, and pedestal tables, even with the 'tyden locks,, were not desired by the trade, so the Table’ Company was again back in its old condition; of about playing even at the end of lhe year. ; Two or three limes we almost decided to quit, but changed our minds and held on. for we disliked to have “failure” end our attempt’ to make the factory pay. . By 1917. Mr. Tyden had completed, equipping the Seal Company plant with its; automatic machines. R.B. Messer proposed,* and directors approved, that we engage him to. take over management of the Table Company, and be its president. Mr. Tyden agreed, and; obtained Fred Hill, a designer for Imperial; Furniture in Grand Rapids, to design and keepthe factory busy. To be continued ... • Sources: Hastings Banner;ChroniclingAinerica.loc.com; Headlight Souvenir Edition, Hastings Mich., 1896; tnigenweb x>rg/barry; - Rather than being in a furniture store advertisement, this ad in the Sept. 16, 1906, Washington. D.C.. Evening Star, touted the "famous Tyden Lock," from the Hastings Table Co., "The largest factory in the world devoted exclusively to the manufacture of pedestal tables." The ad also was adjacent to one for a free book on furniture refinishing from S.C. Johnson & Son, Racine. Wis., "the wood-finishing authorities." (Library of Congress image) piece of furniture. He showed Mr. Messer and the other directors how- he could overcome the difficulty and made a solid pedestal. At the January 1905 sale, the Table Company appeared w ith thc only line on the market with tightly closed pedestal extension tables. We had several beautiful designs in pedestals, each with the Tyden locking device. Fhey appealed strongly to the trade and sold like hotcakes. The result was that in 1905. for the first time since the new directors took over the plant, the factory made a nice profit. During the next two or three years. it Gillespies celebrate 50th wedding anniversary Philip and Susan Gillespie of Hastings are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary'. Philip and lhe former Susan White were married on Oct. 17, 1970 at the Saranac Community Church in Saranac, Mich. Ml! 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads 866-700-0123 FREE Bible Study Guides & DVD’s! ~ HrsTAiTi-~~ ~ ©IPR Class is being offered Saturday, October 24 at 8:00 a.m. at the Hastings Community Center Cost will be $40, which includes the card. Call Christmas Prints (269) 818-0040 to reserve a spot. Good Selection of CoUen 'Flannel MICHAEL KINNEY » PLUMBING ^’cu’ Cotton ‘Fabric JlrriVing 5 . L,ccllSv<l Master Plumber \\A Licensed JoUrnevnnm p|Uniber \A J % ‘ Vt R,remodel. repair, drain cleaning. BKA»H)RD WHITE WAFER HEATERS KNOW 'A m . (269> ‘-MN-“48 ----- —------ 269) 838-5112 MHW! ’Prayfor our naliorCX ouesnosv AVK US ?18 C SWo St • 945-9873 < I �\f I Yankee Springs trustee asks for plat extension because of CUV'W | Page 8 — Thursday, October 15.2020 — The Hastings Banner Greg Chandler Staff Writer A Yankee Springs Township Board member is asking thc township to grant him another one-year extension for site development of a 12-lot subdivision off of Payne lake Road because of the COVID-19 virus. Representatives for Shanon Vandenberg, a (ownship trustee, asked the township Thursday to extend the final preliminary plat for me Shalinda subdivision until Jan. 16, 202 , because of the pandemic that affectc Vandenberg’s ability to install infrastructure for the development. “This is a common request these days. This is not the only one of these requests that have been made to other township boards and ditv boards,” said Christian Meyer, an attorney representing Vandenberg Const^,on’ n’ company owned by Vandenberg. fhc * of the last six months have been extraordinary and have delayed many projects. . However, lhe request drew- a fair amount ot debate during Thursday’s township board meeting. The board eventually voted 3-1 to table the request until next month s meeting, with Supervisor Mark Englerth voting no and Vandenberg unable to vote because of his involvement in lhe project. Clerk Janice Lippert, Treasure!- Alice Jansma and Trustee Larry Knowles voted in favor of the tabling motion. The township approved lhe preliminary plat for thc Shalinda development in January 2018. then granted a one-year extension to install utilities and other public improvements . >019. giving ^onfor conformance u,:.fl l || ..t|ic applicable .-...ki..zoning J”®n^’ with for thc project in “ fhc developer’s re.&.t,?"> complied «.lh the the workIhc pandemic threw a reprewnunve^ s linlftab|c U"d"^U.X«ifPnolimit to .he ""’"'Despite the best efforts of the developer, we’ll be unable to complete the construction of the site improvements by January 16.2021. Sue to the ‘governor’s COVID execultve onJcrs COVlD-19-associated shortage ol labor a’nd contractors,due to (heir commitment to complete other work that couldn’t be done during the time that the executive orders were in effect. COVID-19-rclatcd delay of factory deliveries of water-main pipes, valves, etc., shortage of labor at those factories, and inability to bum excavation debris at thc site, Meyer said. Project engineer Geoff Moffat echoed Meyer’s sentiments. “But for thc pandemic, this project would be ready for final plat, right now,” Moffat told thc board. “We’re asking for patience.” Meyer told the board that Vandenberg has installed some of the required public improvements, including water and sanitary sewer lines. Supplemental storm sewer pipe for extraordinary storm events, contouring for storm waler basins, grading and compacting for the road base and a surface top coat for the road remain to be done, he said. “There are no changes. We’re not asking for any changes to lhe preliminary’ final plat. Meyer said. “It remains as exactly as it was approved by the Yankee Springs Township board, on the advice from the township planning commission. It remains in full Jlake Elaine Garlock Soy beans are being harvested now. This will soon be followed by com harvest. Trucks are still bringing green beans to Twin City Foods in Lake Odessa. This is an unusually late harvest. Normally. September rains bring a hall to the season. Sunday, Oct. 1, thc Rev. Hillary Thurston Cox presided in the pulpit at Central United Methodist Church for her husband for World Communion Sunday. Both Johnson Street and Johnson Lane are t lined with tree branches awaiting pick-up by village employees. Bob Warner’s maple tree, devoid of all its branches, resembled a giant slingshot. Around the curve, the Hines-Rider evergreens have lost their lower branches. Graveside services were held Sunday for thc late Dorothy Haaksma of Cedar Springs. The family lot is on the west side of the Lakeside Cemetery. Services are planned Saturday for Rex Creighton. 85, a former member of the local historical society. City of Hastings Position Available Part-Time Assessing Assistant/Appraiser The City of Hastings Assessing Department is accepting applications for an assessing assistant within the assessing department. Position will be part time with a 3 month probationary period. Applications will be accepted until Friday, October 23rd, 2020 at 5:00 PM. This individual will assist with data entry into the assessing program, assist with field inspections and assist the general public in person and on the phone. This individual will also perform support functions for the assessing department. Wage rate for the assessing assistant position is $14.90 to $19.86 per hour, depending on experience. Send resume, three (3) professional references and completed employment application to the City of Hastings, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Ml 49058. Applications can be found on the City website (www.hastingsmi.org) or picked up at City Hall. A required application form and a full job description are available upon request. Questions regarding this position should be directed to Jerry Czarnecki, City Manager, 269-945-2468 or jczarnecki@hastingsmi.org The City of Hastings is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 149262 Jane M. Saurman City Clerk/Treasurer/Director of Finance NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED BUDGET PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on October 27, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. the Barry County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the 2021 Barry County budget during the regular Board of Commissioners meeting in the Leason Sharpe Hall, located in the Barry Community Enrichment Center, 231 S. Broadway, Hastings Ml 49058 The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing. A copy of the proposed 2021 Budget is available for public inspection during normal business hours at the County Administrator’s office, 3rd floor, Courthouse, 220 W. State St., Hastings Ml 49058, or at http://www.barrycounty.org/public_ information/finance Pamela A. Palmer, County Clerk Barry County Board of Commissioners I4HJ16 < > number of extcnsjOn a (}cVdopcr may seek to ,,n,na^ to ge^cotnpletcd, Meyer Part of thc ThUrsdnV debate centered around whether Knowjcs'.should be allowed to vote on extend the preliminary plat. Meyer sought an pinion from township attorney Catherine San asking Knowles to recuse himself frorn thC vote, based on Vandenberg having filed a P°Iice rePorl against Knowles and that Knowles had been Vantntrgn ‘° Additional food assistance extended through October ..... . . “We need to have a disinterested [person 'vho] is a fair anj non-biased decision maker,” Meyer said. Rut in an email Thursday afternoon. Kaufman said Knowles could vote on lhe mailer. “A board member has a duty to vote. They cannot abstain unless there is a conflict. There l& no conflict here for Trustee Knowles,” Kaufman wrote in the email. Earlier in thc meeting, Lippert had asked lhat the board go into closed session, citing attorney-client privilege, to review thc Kaufman email and a follow-up email lhe township altorney later sent. However, Lippert’s motion died for lack of a second, and the board voted to make the emails public. ‘There isn’t any legal advice in it,” Supervisor Englerth said. Knowles submitted thc motion to table the plat extension. Hopefully, we can have a meeting with our attorney in the meantime,” he said. Meyer said he would get a schedule together for completion of the improvements to lhe township. Vandenberg will be leaving the board at the end of the year, after he was defeated in ,. bid |.| ^-r^krtion Rep his for re-electron in inthe —August - primary. Th.irxd'iv the board voted In other action Thursday, n 3-2 against »uPI»^n8 ’ Lynn Drive, drain in the area of Janning to The county drain Iownship repair the drain and had asked the i r for its support. *<n6T water running ••You've got a lot of MDOT water g down thcre.you' ve got water off y |h<_ Englerth said. ’ It’s oJff chief houses on Lynn Dnvc ... t houses Noonday [M-179] is affecting the house down toward Payne Lake. But Knowles questioned the need f township to support the project.if• dr commission is going ahead with th p J ‘They have no idea how much it s going to cost. They couldn’t put a dollar figure on it. They want a blank check,” Knowles said. „ “Any drainage project is that way, Englerth responded. Knowles. Jansma and Lippert voted against the petition while Englerth and Vandenberg voted in favor. The next board meeting will be Thursday, Nov. 12, at lhe township hall, 284 N. Briggs Road. Approximately 350,000 Michigan families will continue to have access to additional food assistance benefits during the month of October its a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services announced. Greg Chandler McCarthy said. Michigan previously approved the Staff Writer McCarthy said both teachers and support additional food assistance for March through Teachers and support staff in the Thomapple staff were comfortable with a two-year September - and now- that is being extended Kellogg Schools arc now under contract extension, adding that he had discussed the for lhe month of October with approval from through lhe end of the 2022-23 school year. contract situation with former Superintendent the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and The Board of education Monday Rob Bliltchok prior to Blitchok’s retirement at Nutrition Service. unanimously ratified a two-year contract the end of last month. “No Michiganders should worry about extension with the Thomapple Kellogg “He didn’t want to go any further than [a how to put food on the table for themselves Education Association, the union that two-year extension], because that might and their family, especially during a represents the district’s teachers, and the hamstring a new superintendent,” McCarthy pandemic,” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said. Thomapple Kellogg Educational Support said. “Because we have such good employee “COVID-19 is still a very real threat to our Personnel Association, which represents relations, it felt like the right length of time. public health and Michiganders’ economic district paraprofessionals, bus drivers, “Contracts can be just one year, and I’ve well-being. That’s why it’s so important that custodians and food service employees. dealt with that before where we just have a we continue providing this vital assistance to The extension covers 176 teachers and 151 one-year contract and we meet each year [to low-income families who need help putting support employees, Assistant Superintendent work on a new agreement]. It’s very tedious food on the table” Craig McCarthy said. when you do it that way.” Eligible clients will see additional food The current contracts between the school Board secretary Kristen Cove commended assistance benefits on their Bridge Card by district and lhe two unions were to expire at McCarthy and Blitchok for taking the Oct. 30. with payments beginning for some lhe end of the 2020-21 school year. initiative to get the extension approved with households Oct. 18. Additional benefits will “This whole extension really promotes teachers and support staff so that an incoming be loaded onto Bridge Cards as a separate positive employee relations. We have a great superintendent won’t have to deal with payment from the assistance provided earlier relationship with both educational associations contract negotiations right out of the gate. in the month. - teachers and educational support staff,” “It gives them one more thing to take off Nearly 15 million people in Michigan McCarthy said. “This [extension] is consistent their plate so they can focus on getting to receive federal Supplemental Nutrition with thc last couple of contracts that we’ve know the district and the students and help Assistance Program benefits through the had.” with COVID-19 action plans,” Cove said. state’s Food Assistance Program Teachers and support staff will receive pay The district is currently accepting Households eligible for Food Assistance increases of 1.25 percent for each year of the applications for the superintendent’s position, Program benefits wiU receive additional extension. The disttffj w ill continue its present with a tentative timetable of having a successor benefits in October to bring all current SNAP health care coverage for employees, and to Blitchok named by late November. cases to lhe maximum monthly allowance for longevity pay also will be maintained. that group size. This change only applies to customers not currently receiving lhe maximum benefit amount. The 350.000 households that receive increased benefits represent more than 50 percent of the more than 676,000; Michigan households that received food assistance in August. Thc remaining households already receive the Provided by the Parry County maximum benefit. of Edward Jones The maximum allowable benefit for Member SIPC SNAP customers based on their respective Jim Lundin •>,cnuJcr Jeff Domenico, AAMS® household size is: one person, $194; two 2169 W. M-43-Hwy., Suite A 450 Meadow Run Dr. Suite 100 people, $355; three people.$509; four people Hastings, Ml 49058 Hastings, Ml 49058 $646; five people, $768; six people, $921; (269)818-0423 (269)^8-8265 seven people, $1,018; and eight people, $1,164. Eligible families do not need to re-apply to receive the additional benefits. People who When you retire, you’ve other expenses. In fact, A than you did during your receive food assistance can check their learned a lot about all healthy 65-year-old cou­ working years. Nonethe­ benefits balance on their Michigan Bridge sorts of things, helping ple who retired in 2019 less, it’s important to own Card by going online to michigan.gov/ you avoid some of the will need nearly $390,000 a reasonable percentage MIBridgcs or calling a consumer service mistakes you made earli­ over their remaining years of growth-oriented invest­ representative toll-free, 888-678-8914. They er in life. However, you just to pay for health care, ments to help keep you can ask questions about the additional benefits may still be susceptible according to HealthVicw ahead of inflation. Even by calling or emailing their caseworker. to financial missteps spe­ Services, which produces at a low' rate, which we’ve cifically related to your health-care cost projection experience recently, infla­ retirement years. How can software. Other estimates tion can erode your pur­ you dodge these errors? show' different amounts, chasing power over time. Consider these sugges­ but they all amount to hun­ • Don’t be more gener­ tions: dreds of thousands of dol­ ous than you can afford. • Manage your with­ lars. So, when calculating If you have grown children drawal rate carefully. your expenses during your who need financial help, You will likely need to retirement years, reserve a or grandchildren heading tap into your retirement big space for health care. to college someday, you’d TJie Michigan Departmenl of lnsuran<;e accounts - your IRA and • Don’t take Social Se­ no doubt like to do what­ and Financial Services is continuing to offer 401 (k) or similar employ­ curity too early. You can ever you can to provide virtual town hall events for consumers about er-sponsored plan. But you start receiving monthly assistance. However, the MlCi?“,sncw auto insurance law. should establish an annual Social Security checks hard truth is they simply This live online town hall meettng today. withdrawal rate that’s ap­ when you reach age 62, have more time than you Oct. 5. at noon. is part of a series of events propriate for your situa­ but your payments will do to find workable fi­ to help drivers learn ed ask questions about tion. By withdrawing too generally be significant­ nancial solutions, whereas Michigan S new auto insurance law and the much each year, especially ly larger if you wait until if you deplete your funds choices they wil| ncc(1 make for policies in thc early years of your your “full” retirement age, through your generosity, issued or renewed after July I • retirement, you risk out­ which will probably be you could put yourself in T° a virtualI town hall event, living your resources. You between 66 and 67. (The a precarious position. So, may want to consult with size of your payments will be as giving as you can af­ partrctpanis click the ‘vent link at i,s sUrt time. Instructions <£ are available a financial professional “max out” al age 70.) Of ford — but don’t go beyond and “Plainho* °rala"d ask to determine the with­ course, if you need the that. By preserving your questions. ° J0,n 30 drawal amount that’s right money at 62, you may financial independence, Michigan’s new „ulrance law lowers for you. (Keep in mind, have to take it, but if you you’ll end up benefiting though, that once you turn believe you have longevi­ your family, as well. average . Michigan maintainsstatewide the hifc S*drivers, in the 72, you will be required to ty working in your favor, Retirement can be a country.andstren'th ^^protections. take out at least a certain and you can afford to wait, wonderful time of your For policies that is^"ser°X"v alkr July '' amount each year - based you may be better off by­ life - and you may enjoy drtvers will llce(1 or rene' of on your age and account delaying Social Security it more by doing what you coverage that b^'T hek needs. By balance - from your tradi­ as long as possible.) can to avoid costly finan­ • Don’t invest too con­ cial mistakes. tional IRA and 40l(k) or servatively. Once you’re similar plan.) This article was writ­ •he opportuZ ** "cw choices and will nave ’ Don’t underestimate retired, you might think ten by Edward Jones for fDI>-S comin"^^'it^dedteated. health care costs. Once that you should take as few use by your local Edward no-fault hotline . : lt> operate a* . you turn 65, you will be chances as possible with Jones Financial Advisor “jm-5 p m. Mon^h calls DriVcrs eligible for Medicare, but your investments - after also may call gT* " (->75-3437), you may still need a Medi­ all, you simply have less entail aut<>insUni’i3-ASK-DlFS visil care supplement plan and time for them to bounce n’tchtgau gov/aui^! michigan g • more will probably also incur back from a downturn information. insurance 1 TK agrees to contract extensions with teachers, support staff (Financial FOCUS Avoid financial mistakes during retirement Auto insurance virtual event is today sipc'ard Jones’ Afember �SOCIAL SECURITY MATT^Rs The Hastings Banner — Thursday. October 15. 2020 —- Page 9 Social Security announces 1.3 percent benefit increase for 2021 Specialist clarifies benefits, oP*’°ns Wme ^whZLh‘l^Zn,!n rhwr A<,aZrt /'"■ \ame time, and doctors h^., . nmal hi,,-. with A„ly,llri, hj d"‘K: A/-S - commonly refe,rcM r/Mhrtdl Xerosis Jiuttse. / hafisf,,s■'? GrMlt‘s track" for some neon I . L‘ur"y^asa 'fart apJiea'Z 7or IX X Compassionate Allow-n ? • •• 1 ls‘ Uur us to fist mA Cs ,n,l,al,ve allows ith ven. sex °f indi'^ SV vre disabilities. Dozens of differ Tied <1",abililitfs Mi'alify for this expe­ dited decision, including ALS. and that list conttnucs to expand. Learn more abou H rtf ™ It Allowa"“s »"d »e the full list ot conditions at stx-ialseeurity.gov/compassionateallowances. , An tha Wc speed UP decisions is with our Quick Disability Determinations initia­ tive, which uses technology to identify appli­ cants who have thc most severe disabilities and allows us to expedite out decisions on those cases. Read more about Quick Disability Determinations al soeialsecurily.gov/disabilityresearch’qdd.htm. - wil1 You Who is eligible for Supplemental Security Income? People who receive SSI are age 65 or older, blind, or disabled with limited income and resources. Go to socialsccurity.gov for income and resource limits. The general fund of the U. S. Treasury makes SSI payments. They do not come out of the Social Security Trust Fund. I will rely on Medicare when 1 retire. Can you explain the different parts of Medicare? If I g<> back to work, will 1 automatically The different parts of Medicare cover your lose my Social Security disability benefits? ' specific needs. There are four parts, all of No. Social Security has several work incen­ which work in tandem to deliver healthcare tive programs to help people who want to services: work. You may be able to receive monthly • Part A (hospital insurance): Helps pay for benefits and continue your healthcare cover­ inpatient care in a hospital or skilled-nursing age during a trial work period. For informa­ facility (following a hospital stay), some tion about Social Security’s work incentives home health care, and hospice care. and how they can help you return to work, • Part B (medical insurance): Helps pay for you should visit our special work site at physician services and many other medical socialsecurity.gov/work; see lhe Red Book on services and supplies hospital insurance work incentives at socialsecurity.gov/rcd- doesn’t cover. book: or check out our publications at • Part C (Medicare Advantage plans): If socialsecurity.gov/pubs and type “work” in you have Medicare Paris A and B. you can the search box. For more information, visit join a Medicare Advantage plan. Private com­ socialsecurity.gov or call 800-772-1213 (1TY panies offer Medicare Advantage plans, which 800-325-0778). arc approved by Medicare. These plans gener­ ally help you pay the medical costs not cov­ How does Social Security decide if I am ered by Medicare Part A and B. disabled? • Part D (prescription drug coverage): For you to be considered disabled. Social Helps pay for medications doctors prescribe Security must determine that you are unable for treatment. to do the work you did before and that, based Will my eligibility for the Extra Help with on your age. education, and work experience, you are unable to adjust to any other work that Medicare prescription drug plan costs be exists in significant numbers in the national reviewed and, if so, how often? If you get thc Extra Help, Social Security economy. Also, your disability must last or be expected to last for at least one year or to may contact you to review your status. This result in death. Social Security pays for total reassessment will ensure you remain eligible disability only. No benefits are payable for for Extra Help and receive all the benefits you partial disability or diorr-tcrm disability (less deserve. Annually, usually at the end of than a year). For more information, read our August, we may send you a form to complete publication, “Disability Benefits,” at socialsc- called “Social Security Administration curily.gov/pubs. Review of Your Eligibility for Extra Help.” ^Doctor Universe Knuckling down for better balance Dr. Universe: Why do apes walk on their knuckles? Sam, 10, Benton, Ark. Dear Sam. A lot of apes walk on their knuckles. Gorillas, chimpanzees and bonobos use their knuckles for stability and balance. That’s what I found oul from my friend Nanda Grow, an anthropologist and wildlife biologist al Washington State University who studies primates. “Gorillas and chimpanzees both do knuckle-walking, but they do different kinds,” she said. As chimpanzees and bonobos walk around, they will extend their arms, flatten out (heir hands a bit and curl in the knuckle. Meanwhile, gorillas keep their amis slra.ght- If you walked around on your knuckles, you might get tired, sore or wobbly. But for apes knuckle-walking is one way to help them move their weight around. Grow told me the average male gorilla s about 400 pounds. When gorillas walk on their knuckles, it can help them spread t their weight and protect their join s. Aoes also tend to have front legs hat are long£ than their back legs- When up on their knuckles it shortens >P . where'apes that drag around on the gr. |hcir use their knuckles Io long arms arc rcany « around the f°«M; haVC )ong arms they Chimpanzees “ ou( as you now use for climbing m ; kliuckles when enow, they also usv . -------- Anv and “nd re Is it true that a person can own a home and this fonn- AlN effective jn ,lnients to the Extra Help Go 10 soci«i^?ary of lhc still be eligible for Supplemental Security Income benefits? Yes. A person who owns a home and lives in that home can be eligible for SSI benefits. \vnda You tn^r* Violist Although there is an asset limit for people to West \jtnbthtraii' ri,e her c/o qualify for SSI. some things don’t count for Social h Ml 49525, K"“PP toward that limit, such as a house, a vehicle, a e,nail to and some funds set aside for burial expenses. HE, To learn more about SSI and the eligibility vonda.vantd requirements, browse our booklet, Supplemental Security Income at socialsecu­ rity .gov/pubs/1 1000.him!. they are on thc ground. ’They carry' that with them from an ancestor in lhe past.” Grow' said. “They have these long arms thal still help them move around in trees, bui now they’re spending more time on lhe ground.” For a long time, people thought early humans might have walked on their knuck­ les, as well. After all. apes are primates. You are a primate, too. This question created a lol of debate among scientists — and some­ times it still does. “In the past, people thought that humans walked on their knuckles. Some people don’t really think that anymore,” Grow said “It’s probably not a midway point between swinging in trees and walking on two legs. Some primates do it, and some don’t.” One of the primates that doesn’t use its knuckles is the pygmy tarsier. That’s the animal Grow studies. Il’s about the size of a tiny guinea pig. Instead of having really long arms, lhe pygmy tarsiers have really long legs. Well, long for their size. Their ankle bones are long and help them propel from tree to tree. A pygmy tarsier’s legs are so powerful they allow it to jump 10 times its own body length. Just imagine how far you could jump with legs like a pygmy tar­ sier. Whether primates arc swinging, jumping running, skipping, knuckle-walking or walking upright, every species knows just the right way to get from one place to the next. Dr. Universe Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University’s resident scientist and writer at Dr.UniverseCdwsu.edu or visit her website, askdrunivcrxesoin. County board candidate withdraws from race Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits for approximately 70 million Americans will increase 1.3 percent in 2021, the Social Security Administration announced TXicsday day. 'Hie 1.3 percent cost-of-living adjustment will begin with benefits payable to more than 64 million Social Security beneficiaries in January 2021. Increased payments to more than 8 million SSI beneficiaries will begin Dec. 310. Some people receive both Social Security and SSI benefits. The Social Security Act lies the annual COLA to the increase in the Consumer Price Index as determined by the U.S. Department of labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. Some other adjustments that take effect in January of each year are based on the increase in average wages. Based on that increase, the maximum amount of camings subject to the Social Security tax (taxable maximum) will increase to $142,800 from $137,700. Social Security and SSI beneficiaries arc normally notified by mail starting in early December about their new benefit amounts. Most people who receive Social Security payments will be able to view their COLA notice online through their personal My Social Security account. People may create or access their My Social Security account online at socialsecurily.gov/myaccount. Information about Medicare changes for 2021, when announced, will be available ar mcdicare.gov. For Social Security beneficiaries receiving Medicare. Social Security will not be able to compute their new benefit amounts until after the Medicare premium amounts for 2021 are announced. Final 2021 benefit amounts will be communicated to beneficiaries in December through the mailed COLA notice and My Social Security’s Message Center. The Social Security Act provides for how the COL/X is calculated. More information can be found at scKialsecurity.gov/cola PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE NOTICE OF INTENT (POSSIBLE) TO USE A VIRTUAL PLATFORM FOR PUBLIC HEARING TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF PRAIRIEVILLE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PER­ SONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will be held on November 4, 2020 commencing at 7:00 p.m. at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Rd., Delton Ml, 49046 within the Township, as required under the provisions of the Michi­ gan Zoning Enabling Act and the Zoning Ordinance for the Township. Cody Hayes Greg Chandler Staff Writer One of thc few contested races for thc Barry' County Board of Commissioners is now no longer a race. Cody Hayes, a Democratic candidate run­ ning for the District 2 seal on the county board, announced during a public comment period al Tuesday’s county board meeting that he is conceding the campaign to Catherine Getty, the Republicancandicfato-for that seal. Hayes said he had mer^ith Getty about a' month ago to discuss lhe race, and said he w as planning to withdraw. Getty confirmed that lhe two had met, but didn’t say anything pub­ licly until after Tuesday’s announcement. “Due to the many things going on in my life. I found it is not a great time for me to move forward and run for public office,” Hayes said. “Catherine and I seem to share many of the same values. Her work in lhe community over the past 20 years is honor­ able. She has thc experience and compassion that I believe is needed in a commissioner.” Getty is currently the zoning administrator for Thomapple Township and program direc­ tor for the Thomapple Area Parks and Recreation Commission. She said she is plan­ ning to step down from the TA PRC position, which she has held for the past 10 years. ‘‘I’m thankful for his support.” Getty said of Hayes’ decision. Getty would replace current Commissioner Dan Parker, who chose not to run for re-elec­ tion to the county board. Parker won the Republican primary for Thomapple Township supervisor in August and is expected to suc­ ceed outgoing Supervisor Michael Bremer after next month’s elections. Getty says that TAPRC will soon post thc program director’s job opening. PLEASEyTAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to any State of Michigan legislative changes to the Open Meetings Act, the Township Zoning Board of Appeals may hold its meeting (including public hearing) electronically, in order to limit in person govern­ ment activities, to protect critical infrastructure workers to the extent possible. If the meeting is held electronically, information to electronically attend the meeting will be posted on the Township’s website at http://www.prairievilletwp~mi.org. In addition to participation during an electronically held public hearing, members of the public may also provide comments for the Zoning Board of Appeal’s consideration by emailing or mailing those comments to the Zoning Board of Appeal’s for receipt prior to the meet­ ing, in care of the Township Zoning Administrator, Eric Thompson (ethomp5on(5>pcimi, tom) or by leaving a phone message prior to the meeting with the Township Zoning Administrator, Eric Thompson at 269-948-4088. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at said public hearing include, in brief, the following: 1. 2. A request from Nugent Builders on behalf of property owner, Dattilo Investments LLC., 51152 Sunday Dr., Northville, Ml 48167. for a variance to allow for the construction of a 4-season room In place of the existing deck failing to meet the front yard setback pursuant to section 4.24 “Waterfront Lots’. The subject site is located at 11990 Oakridge Dr. Plainwell Ml 49080., Parcel # 08-12-190-021-00 and is currently zoned R-2 - Residential. Such other business as may properly come before the Zoning Board of Appeals. All interested persons are invited to be present at the aforesaid time and place, or, if an electronic meeting is held, to participate via the electronic meeting. Prairieville Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (4) days' prior notice to the Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Town­ ship Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS By: Dale Grimes, Chairperson Prairieville Township Hall 11015 S. Norris Rd. Delton, Michigan 49046 (269) 623-2064 nwa PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY. MICHIGAN AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PI FASE TAKE NOTICE that a Planning Commission public hearing regarding proposed zoning ordinance text amendments will be held on November 12.2020 at 7:00 p.m at the Prairieville Township Hall. 10115 S. Norris Road, within the Township, as required under die provisions of the Michigan Planning Enabling Act, Michigan Zoning Enabling Act and the Zoning Ordinance for thc Township. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE thal the item(s) to be considered at said public hearing include the following: Zoning Ordinance amendment to Article IV, Section 4.20, regarding location of accessory' buildings. Marriage \ JUcenses ' Zoning Ordinance amendments to Article IV and Article VI. to add new Sections 4.13-9 and 6.11-1 regarding reapplication or reconsideration of site plan and/or special use applications. 3. Charity Grace Dietzel, Battle Creek and Logan Ray Alderson. Battle Creek Dillon Patrick loosen. Middleville and Briana Lee Byrne, Middleville Sarah Jane Fox, Hastings ;ind Qorey William Crouch, Hastings Tmiothy Robert Harden, Nashville and Amanda Rose Shelhom, N;uhvj||c Crystal Lynne Stout, Way|and and paul Spencer Pope, Wayland Sheryl LynnJW Hastings and Robcr] Wade Garrett. Bellevue Hollie Lynn Aardema, MiddfeviUe and Steven John Andrews, t cterborough| United Kingdom Morgan Lee I’letcber, Hastjngs and rravis Roy Coenen, Hasting5 Seth Aaron I^L ^Itvi||e and Jcssica Candace Arnold, Nas,,>,ue John Edward Burundi H;hli „ । Ann Dahlman.Coopenjvi|lc and Beth /irkMWTu uiX r" "l",,in8s lind Hri" Anne Marsh, Havtmp c Jeffrey Eduard friend jr Bailey Jo Elliott, Ik"11"^ ’ ‘lasU,l8s “nd Kelly Katherine1 aI^s-Rc]|cvllt, .n • . Philip Dawson. BelK"-ue ev“e and Daniel Such other and further business as may properly come before the Planning Commission at said hearing. pi EASE TAKE I URT1IER NOTICE that thc Zoning Ordinance amendments U ’LZwrd at thc office of the Township Clerk during regular business hours of ^uto bXX“»d ''ill also I* available at the time and place of lhe hearing. PI E ASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that written comments will be taken from • id nerson concerning the proposed text amendments at lhe office of the any inlere^ kP^lhe address set below, at any time during regular business hours up to Township C da(c of lhe hearing and will further be received by the Planning CtmtmiSon at lhe lime of said hearing. Pl FASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE thal the Prairieville lbwnship Planning • • .mt Township Board reserve the right to make changes in the abovi meXned°propo'cd amendmcnt(s) at or following the public hearing. • • n T«vfKhin will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services to Praincvtl e “ d;Jbilities at lhe hearing upon four (4) days’ notice to lhe Prairieville individuals wnn u»Township Clerk. PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION z Rod Goebel, Township Clerk Prairieville Township Hall 10115 S Norris Road Delton. Ml 49046 (269) 623-2726 �Page 10 — Thuisdaf Odcber 15.2020 --The Hastings Bann*' B ■ MDHHS updates guidelines related to COVID-19 To help slow thc spread ot COVID-19 and protect thc health and safety of Michiganders. Michigan Department of Health and Human Sen ices Director Robert Gordon issued an Emergency Order Oct. 1 under section 2253 of thc Public Health C ode restricting gathering sizes, requiring lace coverings in public spaces and childcare facilities, placing capacity limitations on stores, bars and other public tenues an providing for safer workplaces. ... ’ Our goal is to mainuun policies that iav made a drastic difference in the light .igams COVID-192’ Gordon said. ‘Cases are rising, and thc science is clear. Masks reduce U c spread of COVID-19. Social b reduces the spread of COVID- •• action is critical to saving Mtehtgandcn “ The order comes under a legal authority enacted bv thc Michigan Lcps mure aft r t c •Spanish Flu of 1918 specifically l<> AaI “ith epidemics. That statute was not at issue tn the Supreme Giurfs ruling two. The order completes the major elements ot the departments efforts toalign orders under its own authority “ith actions taken by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer that were success^ tn combatting the spread ot COVID-19. Compared to the Oct. 5 order, new pros Bions — i-i.v.'-ioadty limit* in businesses. °'Y'to d> fiA"re ce.mk «AM prelections and requirctncnls for contact .he new MDHHS onler: / Ma4s must be worn at any gatherings i-currine al businesses, offices, schools, childcare facilities, sporting events and other non-residentinl events. , Businesses cannot admit individuals who do not wear a face covering, and there are few exceptions. • The mask requirement continues to apply for organized gatherings larger than 10 indoorsand 100 outdoors. • Capacity limits apply to indoor gatherings, including business, social and recreational. • Except in Region 6 (Traverse City area), a gathering at a retail store, library or museum may not exceed 50 percent of total occupancy limit established by state or local fire marshal. • Gatherings at recreational sports and exercise facilities arc prohibited if they exceed 25 percent of the total occupancy limits established by thc by state or local fire marshal, or if there is less than six feel of distance between each workout station. • Gatherings at non-tribal casinos may not exceed 15 percent of total occupancy limits established by slate or local fire marshal. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads CITY OF HASTINGS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING RESCHEDULED Notice is hereby given that the Hastings City Council will hold a RESCHEDULED public hearing on Monday, October 26,2020 at 7:00 PM location to be determined. Please see City website (hastingsmi.org) for location. The purpose of lhe Public Hearing is for City Council to hear comments and make a determination on thc establishment of a final assessment roll for the sidewalk improvement special assessment districts along West State SL/M37/M43. A tentative final assessment roll may be reviewed in the City Clerk’s office during normal business hours. The City will provide necessary reasonable aid and services to disabled persons wishing to attend these hearings upon seven days notice to the Clerk of the City of Hastings. 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058. Telephone 269/945-2468 or TDD call relay services 800'6-19-3777. 119466 Jane M. Saurman City Clerk excew establishments ",n>’ "ot gatherings^ • Restaurant and b-irXive capacity limits lor gatherings and, ‘ n|y serve alcohol to parties who are n’*‘' fcCl apart. and remain separate ‘ require fac<! “vcrines • Inriivi i «nn8 limits. . . I,,dn‘duals jn isolation or quarantine because of COVID-19 exposure, symptoms, or test cannot go to work with others, and employers cannot require presem 8°<0 U<Hk in Wi,h any°nC dse Gordon said that due lo the effectiveness of the policies iniiiate<j by Gov. Whitmer, and to minimize confUsion following the Michigan Supreme Court’s ruling- this new poIic>’ complies with lhc rcquiremcnts that were established in the executive orders as much as possible. Capacity linuU and for sports remain the same. The rules for the Traverse City region arc slightly less strict, as before. Mask requirements for businesses and individuals are almost identical; they do not apply to individuals at outside gatherings City of Hastings NOTICE OF SITE PLAN REVIEW FOR LEGACY GOLF COURSE The Planning Commission for the City of Hastings will review requested changes to the site plan for the Legacy Golf Course in regard to an additional accessory building. The meeting will be held at 7:00 PM on Monday, November 2, 2020 site to be determined. Please check City of Hastings website at www.hastingsmi.or£. All interested citizens are encouraged to attend and to submit comments. Comments or questions can be directed to Dan King, Community Development Director, {Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at 201 E. State Street, Hastings, MI 269-945­ 2468 or dking@hastingsmi.org. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five daysmotice to the City Clerk at 269.945.2468 or TDD call relay services 800.649.3777. Jane M. Saurman City Clerk H9321 City of Hastings City of Hastings NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON AMENDMENT TO ORDINACES TO ALLOW COMMERCIAL KENNELS AS A SPECIAL USE IN THE D-l & D-2 ZONING DISTRICTS ORDINANCE FOR THE CITY OF HASTINGS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON AMENDMENT TO ORDINACES WITH REGARD TO ACCESSORY BUILDINGS WITHIN RESIDENTIAL AND OFFICE DISTRICTS The Planning Commission for the City of Hastings will hold a Public Hearing for the purpose of hearing written and/or oral comments from the public concerning an amendment to the City Ordinances by add Commercial Kennels as a special use in the D-l & D-2 Industrial Districts. The public hearing will be held at 7:00 PM on Monday, November 2, 2020 The Planning Commission for the City of Hastings will hold a Public Hearing for the purpose of hearing written and/or oral comments from the public concerning an amendment regarding accessory buildings within residential and office zoning districts. The public hearing will be held at 7:00 PM on Monday, November 2, 2020 site to be determined. site to be determined. Please check the City of Hastings website at www.hastingsmi.org. All interested citizens are encouraged to attend and to submit comments. Questions or comments can be directed to Dan King, Community Development Director, 201 E. State Street, Monday through Friday at The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon five days’ notice to the City Clerk at 269.945.2468 or TDD call relay services 800.649.3777. Jane M. Saurman 149320 City Clerk Please check the City of Hastings website at www.hastingsmi.org. All interested citizens are encouraged to attend and to submit comments Questions or comments can be directed to Dan King, Community Development Director, 201 E. State Street, Monday through Friday at 269.945.2468 or dlcing^X^. The City will provide necessary reasonable aids and services upon fiVe days’ notice to the City Clerk at 269.945.2468 Or Tnn call relay services 800.649.3777. 149319 Jane M- Saurman City Clerk See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING pi US 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- north of Hastings city |jmjts except when unable to maintain six feet of distance. Ilicre arc no longer bar closures, but bars may only serve alcohol to gatherings seated at tables. fo aid in contact tracing, many businesses continue to be required to maintain accurate records of the names, contact information, 4ate and time of entry of all visitors. These lacililics, which include sports and entertainment facilities and places of public amusement, theaters and cinemas, concert nails, sporting venues, stadiums, amusement parks, arcades, bingo halls, bowling centers, skating rinks, and trampoline parks, must deny entry to any visitor who docs not provide their name and phone number. Under MCL 333.2253, if lhe MDHHS director determines that control of an epidemic is necessary to protect the public health, the director by emergency order may prohibit thc gathering of people for any purpose and may establish procedures to be followed during the epidemic to insure continuation of essential public health services and enforcement of health laws. 2215(I) j<)Ca| health Pursuant to MCL 333.22- di ) departments are authon Law enforce the terms e (he enforcement officers n> t<) order and arc spccih y order investigate potential vtdattom They may coordinate as necess y appropriam regulatory entity anti enforce thts order within their jurisdiction. Violations of this order are a punishable by imprisonment for no more than six months or a fine of n< _iso S200. or both. Violations of this punishable by a civil fine of up to S XWThis order will remain tn effect lh,°“8 Friday. Oct. 30. The Oct. 5. order entitled Gathering Prohibition and Mask Order is rescinded. Individuals with sugges ions a concerns are invited to submit comments via email to COVIDI9^'michigan.gov Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavtrus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus. Barry Township again discusses water tower upgrade Luke Fronchcck Staff Writer The process of approving or denying a water tower project in Barry Township is moving forward, the next step being a public meeting. Township board members Tuesday discussed the potential upgrade and decided they should first determine the how the upgrade would impact residents’ water bills before hosting a public meeting. The project would cost an estimated $1.4 million and would be paid in incremental amounts over 40 years, engineer Steve Bishop from Fleis and Vandcnbrink Engineering of Grand Rapids told trustees during an August meeting. Board members had previously approved the spending of $22000 to file for a full application in July 2019 after learning from their pre-applicalion they possibly were eligible for a S200.000 grant toward the project. Due to lowered interest rates, USDA officials said Barry Township no longer qualified for a grant in any form. “I’m very disappointed this is how it happened,” Bishop said. “They [USDA] led me down a path that did not end up where we are now." Board members did not decide on a date for a future meeting, but trustees committed to having a meeting in November. Board members also discussed potential updates to the Hickory Comers Fire Bam. Township Supervisor Wesley Kahler said he w ould meet with engineers from Wightman of Kalamazoo, the engineering and architecture company working on the upgrade project. The meeting is to discuss potential upgrades and related costs. In other business, the board moved to allow township hall rentals for residents with mask-wearing requirements and social­ distancing guidelines. Anyone renting lhe hall must record names of attendees for easier contact tracing, should an outbreak of COVID-19 occur. Vehicle crashes Johnstown cemetery headstones A 62-year-old woman called police at 1:41 a.m. Sept. 24, to report damaged headstones at lhe Johnstown Township Cemetery. It appeared a vehicle went off the cemetery driveway, cut across multiple plots and struck two headstones between Sept. 18 and 24. The stones were knocked over, with some minor chipping and scuffing. The case is inactive without further information. Woman arrested for OW! after reckless driving A 54-year-old Hastings woman was arrested after driving with a 0.121 blood alcohol con­ tent. Police received a complaint of a reckless driver on M-179 near Patterson Road at 12:45 a.m. Oct. 3. An officer located the vehicle on M-43 near Green Street in Hastings. The woman was pulled over for speeding and crossing lanes. She initially said she did not have anything to drink, before admitting to having one beer, and ultimately, to some wine with dinner. Driver throws out heroin kit while speeding from police A mysterious Chevrolet Impala sped away from police al 2:27 a.m. Oct. 3. An officer noticed the vehicle without a piate on Pifer Road near Cedar Creek Road in Barry Township. When the officer started to drive up behind the vehicle, it sped away before the officer had a chance to activate lhe lights or siren. The officer pursued at speeds up to 100 mph for about two minutes but was unable to locate lhe car. Around 6:10 p.m. that day another officer han­ dled a complaint on nearby Banfield Road, between Groat Road and Bristol Road. A resident found a heroin kit in their yard, which police believe was thrown from the vehicle. The case is closed without further information. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale \n Io motive Help Wanted CARRON SPORT AIR Hockey Table. $300.00 OBO. Phone 269-908-1654._______ 2005 CHEVY TRAILBLAZ­ ER 4VVD, 230,243 miles, Heat­ ed leather seats, sunroof, 5 disc CD player, Tow pack­ age. Good winter vehicle. $2,700.00 OBO. Call/text 616-481-6900. B. BUS MOBILE LIBRARY Seeks Driver. Tues/Thur 3:30-6:30pm. Required CDL air brakes. Call 269-945-4574. KASSON 10FT OAK Pool Table, excellent condition. $1,000.00 or OBO. 269-908­ 1654 For Rent DELTON, MICHIGAN- SE­ NIOR Subsidized housing for people who are 62-years and older with certain income restrictions. 1 -bedroom apart­ ments available. Non-smok­ ing, secured facility. Close to downtown Delton. Call for more information at 269­ 623-4000 or TTY National Relay 711. Equal Housing Opportunity. Rusiness Services MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets bale spears etc. Call 269-80-1-7506. ‘’ BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry’ wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements, power washing. 269-320-3890, BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability 4 workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All r.,Lt!e aij>ert)Mn in (kU «K*<p*.-Kr n iubjeu U, » J H-unr*. u'= C»mI At: tt.41cu.vdy nuke it U;cp| vhcrtr.: any ptHcrence. hmitaion of on **«• volvr. '*'■ fWnd’ca OfP. r«nilt4l .mill. n '••'cnf.-i, to nuke «‘»e i/e । OkV rUl '■’‘ajtcn under ' -5 f W,,h lMfrnU IcgAl \ . 1’’*. P’finuu women j.tJ pecvlc ivu dy cfvhiidwi rcwWJ}Xf W(l| r;.t tny khcfUMng itul r«iu? _ " n uf the Uw. Out •i*eihZ/\htRby »>»» w th > «U<N)X. lair II L ^7- 'kxnrn»^-M* the ite lllH. 7, ’rZ 616 4S1 IU?l> UHI lrfK. " | sou ‘/27.927V �The* Hastings Banner — Thunxlay, October 15, 2020 — Page 11 Militia members arraign®!} on terrorism charges Six of the ?>v^! Scrviev ... 1.7 ’ K .? eSin “ ^viduaK laeins: terror. , .......... ... UlUa s HC lie lertw ism and other felonx. a, ; . MKhigan hase now been arraigned. iH the seventh awaits extradition to Michie m Attorney General s’office charged . h ^? altCr lhe eXe“'^” seai.h and arrest warrants Oct. 7 m a joint r-TP'nfn Vw l,1C S‘ Attorneys of the k T. I?,n.dnWesterM <’«Mricts ol Michigan. \hr i ^dCr‘t Burvan of Investigation and the Michigan State Police. ' h felony charges were filed y < essel against seven indisidunls known to be memlKr> of the militia group Wolverine Watchmen or associates of Wolverine Watchmen. In a separate case, federal charges also were filed against six other individuals. lhe suspects were alleged to have called on the groups' members to identify the home addresses of jaw enforcement officers in order to target them: made threats of violence to instigate a civil war leading to societal enlLm^: and emnieed in lhe planning and collapse; and engaged in the planning and training for an operation to attack the state Capitol building and kidnap government offi­ cials. including Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. 'Hie following individuals were charged by Attorney General Nessel as part of the joint law enforcement effort: • Paul Bellar, 21. of Milford, was arrested in Columbia. S.C., on Oct. 7 and the Attorney General's office is working to extradite him to Michigan for arraignment on charges in .Jackson County. No court dales have been set. Bellar is charged with: Providing material support for terrorist nets - a 20-year felony and/or $20.(XX) fine; gang membership - a 20-year felony, which may be served as a consecutive sentence: and carrying or pos­ sessing a firearm during the commission of a felony; felony firearm - a two-year mandato­ ry’ prison sentence to be served consecutively. • Shawn Fix, 38. of Belleville, was arraigned/\prC’,nl*n:,ry hcarinp,ldiWa1s set at $?50.(X*); 28. A *n"? *hed- “support S’rSjA — fe^^ne-and canyInp>ftCdr fel°ny felony: felon) ^l0be served^rn>“»*>to- set at S25O/XX1* , preliminary Molitor is cha^.,t nets ~ »->/d K al support for Krt1 d cam/° yCar fc,ony „d“> S20.<XX) fi"C' ’ ,h^lng or l»«sess- felony; felony ry prison sentence executively. . Michael n,nWeH’ and William Null. 3«.<£||c _ ()f whom were arnug • 8 In Antrim County, with cash bond set al $250XXX) each. Both are scheduled for a preliminary hearing at 1:30 p.m. Oct. 28. Both defendants are each charged with one count of: Providing material support for terrorist acts - a 20-year felony and/or $20 XXX) fine; and carrying or possessing a firearm during thc commission of a felony; felony firearm - a two-year man­ datory prison sentence to be served consecu­ tively. • Pele Musico. 42. and Joseph Morrison, 26, both of Munilh - both of whom were arraigned Oct. 8 in Jackson County, with a cash bond set at $10 million each. Both are scheduled for a probable cause conference at I p in. Oct. 16 and a preliminary hearing at 9:30 a.m. Oct. 21. Both Musico and Munilh are charged with: One count each of threat of terrorism, a 20-year felony and/or $20,000 fine; one count each of gang membership, a 20-year felony that may be served as n consecutive sentence; one count each of providing materi­ al supjrart for terrorist acts; and one count each for carrying or possessing a firearm during the commission of a felony; felony firearm - a two-year mandatory prison sen-’ fence to be served consecutively. More than 200 slate and federal law enforcement officials - including experts from outside of Michigan - were involved in the operation. A series of search warrants and arrest war­ rants in more than a dozen cities around the slate, including, Belleville, Cadillac, Canton, Charlotte. Clarkston, Grand Rapids, Luther, Munilh, Orion Township, Ovid, Portage,' Shelby Township and Waterford, according to a news release from Nessel’s office. Evidence gathered during the operation is still being reviewed, that news release stated, and additional information will not be provid­ ed until the completion of that review or until it is entered in court. Supreme Court ruling disrupts local government .!• Ad News Service months, but this was the first time a virtual is IS defended, in ... pari* that public Chief Justice Bridcct Marv McCormack weeks. UCiUiiuvvi, I - *) t'wuu wrote J-Ad News Sen ice wrote Chief Justice Bridget Mary McCormack weeks. months, but this was thc first time a virtual bodies followed the adv cc received from A Michigan Supreme Court order is creat­ attendance option was not offered. Justice Richard Bernstein, who was nomi­ in a concurring opinion. “Respectfully, I ing a quandary for some local governing units Maple Valley Schools Board of Education their attorneys as to eomp ytng with the stat­ believe that lhe [governor's] motion ... relies nated by Democrats, cited those benefits in over whether to continue meeting \ irtually. on a misunderstanding — there simply is no his lone dissent, arguing the governor and switched from a virtual to in-person meeting On Monday, the state Supreme Court On Monday. Hastings City Council - which Monday because of the ruling. Legislature should have time to replace orders ‘precedential effect’ for this court to stay.” rebuked Whitmer, ruling that her emergency had been meeting virtually - went into a Some of the governor’s orders — such as a such as the unemployment benefits. However, the court decision did not affect closed session to discuss the problem, then, every governing body: Barry Township has powers are over now - rather than after a requirement for masks in most public spaces His opinion cited Whitmer’s claims that up when council members returned to open ses­ been, and continued to. meet in-person for the 28-day delay she had sought following the — have been temporarily replaced by orders to 83OX)OO residents may lose benefits. sion. they agreed to cancel thc virtual meet­ regular board of trustees Tuesday. Board court’s landmark ruling on her coronavirus issued by Michigan Department of Health and As of early October, nearly 23 million ing. Human Services Director Robert Gordon. Michiganders had qualified for some form of members in Prairieville Township have been orders. The 6-1 ruling means the 30 executive Die problem for the city - and many other operating in a similar fashion. These elected But others have not, such as expanded unemploy ment insurance since March. orders, which were in effect when lhe ruling unemployment insurance benefits that governing bodies across Michigan - is the officials never switched to a virtual meeting “This represents a significant potential dis­ state Supreme Court’s decision to immediate­ mode. Their in-person practice continued came down Oct. 2, no longer carry the weight Whitmer implemented by executive order. ruption to the livelihoods of the people of ly strike down Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's Wednesday night at the regular township of law. The ruling allowed residents who lost their Michigan in a time of great public crisis,” “1 do not believe the court has the authority jobs during the pandemic to qualify for bene­ Bernstein wrote. executive orders and its impact on lhe Open board of trustees meeting. Meetings Act. Senate Bill 1108, which is now headed to to grant the remedy the governor requests.” fits for up to 26 weeks instead of thc usual 20 Bridge Magazine contributed to this report. Hastings City Manager Jerry Czarnecki lhe governor’s desk, will amend thc Open told The Hastings Banner that they are wait­ Meetings Act — which is intended to promote ing for lhe passage or rejection of Senate Bill transparency in public bodies by. among other requirements, ordering that decisions be 1108 before making a decision. “The council was concerned that if we took made in public meetings. The amendment to the OMA, which was any action last night with a virtual meeting that it wasn’t going to be, we weren’t going to approved by the House on an 85-18 vole STATE OF MICHIGAN SYNOPSIS STATE OF MICHIGAN be able to make any decisions.” he said. Tuesday and gained concurrence in thc Senate PROBATE COURT ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING JUDICIAL CIRCUIT - FAMILY DIVISION “Once we get a plan figured out. we will on a 36-1 vole, will allow for the expansion of COUNTY OF BARRY Hold In Person & Remotely BARRY COUNTY PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING notice the rescheduling of this meeting — ten­ virtual or remote meeting participation OCT. 6, 2020 PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF FILE NO. SUPRESSED tatively next Monday - but. again, thal all through thc end of this year for any reason; 7 PM meeting called to order HEARING FOR NAME CHANGE In the matter of Carty Joann Rugg a/k/a Cariey depends on being able to come up with a way the bill also would allow for remote participa­ Pledge of Allegiance CASE NO. and JUDGE Joann Rugg. All board members present. 4 guests tion as far back as March 18. to meet that falls within what's allowed.” 10 ALL INTERESTED PERSONS including: 20-2B594-NC Motion approved Sept 1 “ board meeting minutes The village of Middleville has been holding It also allow s tor remote participation Franklin D. Vergeson III whose addresses) is/aro William M. Doherty P41960 Motion approved Sept 22M Public Hearing unknown and whose interest in the matter may be so-called “hybrid" meetings - the full council through thc end of 2021 in specific instances, minutes meets in person but people can join thc meet- including a statewide or local slate of enter­ barred or affected by the following: 206 W. Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 Motion approved paying ot the bills TAKE NOTICE: A hearing win be held on 269-945-1390 .......... ....... ........... ... -.a v. ing via Zoom - for the past ntonth, and w ill gcncy, a medical condition or military duty, Department Reports • November 18. 2O2Oyai 3:00 p.m. at 206 W Court continue io follow* thatMormaf lev the foresee----- ‘ In-rcsp6nse~to-questions about the impact Public Comment Street. Sto. 302, Hastings, Michigan 49058 before In the matter ol JoAnn Dawn Werkema able future. Village Manager Patricia Rayl of the ruling on lhe Open Meetings Act. lhe Judge William M. Doherty P41960 for the following Now Business: Ordinance 1020-1 adopted TO ALL PERSONS. Including: whose address is Orangeville Day 2020 reported $6000 raised for purpose: state Attorney General Dana Nessel’s office said after Tuesday night's council meeting. unknown and whose interest in the matter may be To determine identity ot father of child named township park “If people want to listen in and share public said: “Unless and until we are asked to pro­ barred or affected by the following: above, bom 1/16/2016 at Lansing, Ingham County. Old Business Bernie's Haul Away contract for comments, they'll have the ability to do so vide an official Attorney General's Opinion, TAKE NOTICE: A hearing will be held on Michigan, and determine and/or terminate his rights. mobile recycling from the safety of their homes." Rayl said. local public bodies should consult with their Date: October 6. 2020 10/28/20 © 2 p.m. at 206 W. Court Street. Suite Board Comment In other places, no virtual option was county corporation counsel, municipal attor­ Rhoades McKee 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 before Judge William Motion to adjourn 728 pm. meeting adjourned 150 W. Court Street. Ste. A Hastings, Ml 49058 offered. neys. or township attorneys for legal advice M. Doherty to change the name of: JoAnn Dawn Submitted by. Mel Risner/Clerk Lakewood Public Schools held its board of on .satisfying the OMA’s phy sical place and 269-945-1921 Attested to by: Tom Rook/Supervisor 149145 Werkema to JoAnn Dawn Wolfe. 149279 education meeting in the high school auditori­ physical presence requirements and all other Melmda Sue Rugg - address confidential c/o Rhoades McKee um to accommodate members of the public OMA requirements in light of the MDHHS 150 W. Court Street. Ste. A Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notlco of Foreclosure by Advertisement who wanted to attend the meeting. Similarly, emergency order imposing “attendance lim­ Hastings, Ml 49058 Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised 149146 thc Barry Intermediate School District Board itations at gatherings” as defined under the 269-945-1921 judicature act of 1961, 1961 PA236, MCL 600 3212, judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236. MCL 600.3212, of Education met in-person with no-virtual order. that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a that tho foliowing mortgage will bo foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement attendance option. The intermediate district “Litigation against public bodies resulting sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised has been holding in-person meetings fur a few from their alleged OMA violations generally them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder LEGAL NOTICES Hastings school board approves union agreement? discusses masks Sophie Bates Staff Writer The Hustings Area School System Board of Education Thursday approved a master agreement with thc Hastings Education Association, the teacher's union, during a special meeting. . The contract applies to all 143 teachers in Hastings and went into effect immediately upon ratification. It will expire June 30,2022. Thc contract includes a 0.5-percent salary increase for teachers in lhe 2021-22 school year and a 10-percenl salary increase for coaches and heads of certain co-circular events, such as student council, marching band and safely patrol. “I will say that was very well neededI. That is something that the teachers as c obviously, but I also supported because our vuv.uu^, rPHtivcIV underpaid. Superintendent Dan Remenap said » like die term "?:bru,n^J’"',’*' ve y difficult more competitive, and ns ? finding coaches.” .. ,v In future negotiations. will consider a raise formula ' lh.r t|,an aid. enrollment and inflation - rather th. ••lhat'svould be huge huge. hugs, huge for the district,” Remenap make.' It ix-ople'nisiswhalyou rep. * just — across the b * negotiations a thoustin ioiial The contract also . during which profes.sional development days, dun .. students will not be in school, Oct. 16, Oct. 30, Nov. 6, Nov. 20 and Dec. 11. These days will give teachers a much-needed break and opportunity to catch up on work during this challenging school year, Remenap said. “Our teachers have been burning the candle at both ends, so these days will provide them some time to catch upon their own professional development and prepare for the rest of the semester,” Remenap said in an interview Wednesday. At Thursday's meeting, he also addressed the uncertainty surrounding mask requirements following the slate Supreme Court’s decision to strike down Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's executive orders. The district must follow the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ orders issued following the court’s decision. Remenap said, which means students are required to wear masks in school. At lhe meeting, Remenap read a statement from the district’s lawyer that stated failure to comply with MDHHS orders could result in civil or criminal .sanctions, fines and loss of governmental and qualified immunity. •*So. that basically says we risk funds, if we don’t require masks and enforce masks, and we risk personal liabilities — Wc jos’e a|j governmental immunity,” Remenap said. “So, wc simply cannot stop requiring the use -­ wear a mask — we just can’t (stop requiring mask use). Not only is it the best health practice right now. it’s going to keep us out of trouble.” judicature act of 1961.1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212. that the fo'lowing mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, al a public auction sale to the hiohest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place ofholding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at L00 PM, on November 5. 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automattcally entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagors): Calvon Kidder and Ahoe Marvita Kidder, as Jo^ Tenants with Full Rights of Survivorsh;p and Not as Tenants in Common Original Mortgagee: Facial Freedom Senior Funding Corporation, a Subsidiary of IndyMac Bank. F.S.B. Foreclosing Assignee (J any)- Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company. NA as Trustee for Mortgage Assets Management Senes I Trust Date of Mortgage: October 5,2006 Date of Mortgage Recording: October 17.2006 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $124,902.62 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Village of Wood'and, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Lot 9 and the East 33 feet of Lot 8 of Block 10 of the Wlaga of Wood'and. according to the recorded Plat thereof Common street address (if any): 1B0 E Franklin St, Woodland. Ml 48897-9761 , The redemption penod shall bo 6 months from tlw date of such sa'o. unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600 3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricu*‘tural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). r If lhe property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of thc Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600-3278 lhe borrower will bo held responsible to the person buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homoowner; If you are a mi’.tary service member on active duty. W y°Uf P^'od o! acl.ve duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, Of (f you ha^ bcen ordered to active duty, pleasn cornet the attorney for the party foreclosing the njortg^ a| (e)ophono number stated in this notice. Tfiis notice is from 3 debt collect^ rail any time to place your ?fiq-q4H 9554 or 1-800-BJU /Uoa Date of notice: September 24, 202q Iron Law. P.C 31440 Northwestern Hwy. S^lo 14f> I armington Hdfa, Ml 48334 (248) 642*2515 1421782 for cash or cashier's check al lhe place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on November 12, 2020 The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on lhe day of safe. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and dear ownership of the property A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fco for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s) Ronald J. Hermenitt and Ruby M. Hermenitt, husband and wife Original Mortgagee: Di’ech Financial LLC FKA Green Tree Servicing LLC F/K/A CONSECO FINANCE SERVICING CORR Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Nev/ Rez LLC dba Shelipoint Mortgage Servicing Date of Mortgage. June 13. 2000 Date of Mortgage Recording- June 21. 2000 Amount claimed due on date of notice: S85.589 81 Description of the mortgaged premises Situated in Township of Orangeville. Barry County. Michigan, and described as: That Part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 20. Town 2 North. Range 10 West, desenbed as: Commencing at lhe Northeast corner of said Section, thence South 89 degrees 59 minutes West 1009.17 feet along the North line of said Northeast 1/4 to the Centerline of Lindsey road, thence South 08 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds West 33.35 feet along said Centerline to the place of beginning; thence North 89 degrees 59 minutes East 233 00 feet; thence South 08 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds West 220 00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 59 minutes West 233.00 feet, thence North 08 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds East 220.0 feet along said Centerline to the place of beginmng Common street address (if any). 11224* Ronald Ln, Delton, Ml 49046-7764 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless detemrned abandoned in accordance with MCL 600 3241a; of. if me subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If tho property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961. pursuant to MCL 600 3278 the borrower will bo held responsible to lhe person who buys the property al the mortgage foreclosure sola or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period . Attention homeowner. If you are a mil-tory $t}™' member on active duly, if your period of ^cf,v® '' has concluded less than JO days ago. or,f been ordered to active duty, please co" attorney for the party foreclosing thn nwrtgag * telephone number staled in this notice This notice is from a debt co’lecTor Date ot notice’ October 15, 20z0 Trott Law. PC. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite mo Farmington Hills. Ml 4833-1 for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on October 29, 2020. The amount due on tho mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing tho highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and dear ownership of tho property. A potential purchaser Is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this Information: Namefs) of the mortgagorfs): Edward L Wemef, single and Debra L Ht'l, single Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for GMAC Mortgage Corporation., its successors and ass-gns Foreclosing Assignee (<f any): Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB, d^b/a Christiana Trust, not individually but as trustee for Pret»um Mortgage Acquisition Trust Date of Mortgage: December 20.2005 Date of Mortgage Record ng: January 6,2006 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $62,227.39 . Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Hope, Barry County. Michigan, and described as; Beginning at foe Northeast comer of tho South 1/2 ot the Northwest 1/4 of Section 10­ 2-9 at the West side of M43 HWY RAA/ South along the West $<do RAV 370 feet fo the beginning. South a'ong RAV 10 RD West 16 Rods, North 10 rods, East to foe beginning. S>.nmon\tteet address (>f any): 5328 S M 43 I Uy Hastings. Ml 49058-9237 The ledemption penod shall be 1 year from lhe d fe of such safe, unless determined abandoned In accordance with MCL 600.3241a. If foe p'operty is so'd at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961. pursuant to MCL 600.3278 foe borrower will be held responsible to foe person who buys foe property at the mortgage foreclosure saM or to tho mortgage holder tor damaging foe property during the redemption penod. Attention homoowner. If you are a miutary service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or If you have been otdeieci to active duty, ploaso contact the attorney for the party foreclosing foe mortgage m . ttw telephone number stated In this notice. . This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice: October 1,2020 Trait Law. PC. 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 Famyngton H»ls, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 ; (248)642-2515 1422979 (10-15X11-05) 149194 1422113 (10-01)(10-22) 148315 �Paqu ’,2 — Thursday. October 15 POPO — The Hastings Banner FBI: Conspirators wanted to leave Whitmer in lake, kidnap Va. governor . Gov. i .... Umv Norlham to “ m they landed on. Northam of to “of Bonfire " Bcwifi^ . , “member <•' ",c who as another porent.al went by Bridge Magazine Frank h’“1 potently The men who allegedly conspired to kidnap’ » statement the FBI hadkin’r?ittbin anl1 “ i ’T4 Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer also had a hold ol th' nl||,r»t«l their group and gotten ambitions to lake out another Democratic «> meet it ''"■nmunic:itions. They agreed governor: Ralph Northam of Virginia. group bri u * rS, ’n- *ith each member of the And one of the men confided after his -Per securin' protocols for highly-classi­ fonn5 ldcn,,"C,",On 10 arrest of a plan to abandon Whitmer on a dis­ fied information, neither the governor nor confirm their abled boat in luikc Michigan rather than pi t other members ot his staff were informed. At to another end-to-end her on trial for “treason ” a*- they had dis­ no time was the governor or his family in encrypted** form Thi% ^oinfnunications platimminent danger. Enhanced security mea­ cussed earlier, . turned t utm^ °ne of the men. "Mark. ” who Those were among new allegahon* 1 a sures have been in place for Gov. Northam emerged from an FBI special agent’s tc*hnw_ •anti his family for quite some lime, and they •Iso invit • i?,** government informant. was FBI w<> ° *he Thrccnw chat, giving the ny Tuesday during a bond hearing tor t ire* will remain." press secretary Alena Yarmosky Anoth" S ra' husc communications ns well. six men facing federal conspiracy said. Grand Rapids. IS. Magistrate Judge ... ) Northam, like Whitmer, had put his slate exnlosivJ 8U)UP Sept. 12. He posed as an Berens, a former prosecutor. demy under strict lockdown measures in the wake wfth th-? CXpcn’ *^d worked and trained requests involving three ot the de ui* u >• ', h thc team over the next few weeks. Red The conspiracy case has drawn na onal of thc COVID-19 outbreak. And like Whitmer, Northam blamed attention as a symbol ol the «cn* PJ President Thimp for dangerously inflaming urea the governor’< lakefront vacation divisions that man) "rar could resuU mn. o passions that would inevitably incite fringe <iroun"h1111 OfTravcrse City.and informed the fence around the Nov. 3 electron prose­ groups l>cnt on violence. S,hcy ““W I»lentiall>' "!Wan “ cution is based on reams of sec re . “Here's lhe reality,” Yarmosky said po tec response [() t| Epping by destroy­ and confidential informants after the Ill infiltrated antigovcrnincnt group* * * Tuesday: “President Trump called upon his ing a nearby bridge. I’’^.mcct,ng Oct. 7 which was raided by self-proclaimed militia members across set- supporters lo ’LIBERATE VIRGINIA’ in April — just like Michigan. In fact, the presi­ bv pFB| an<.1 kd t0 lhc n*n’s arrVSt’WaS ,SCt Up era! Mates since the spring. luc'd is '*• heanne also was thc first oppor­ dent regularly encourages violence against by Red under the guisc of the informant deliv­ tunity for’ lhe defendants' lawyer* to raise those who disagree with him. Tire rhetoric ering explosives and tactical gear to the doubts about the prosecution. with at least one coming out of this White House has serious group. Attacking poncc< (1Lsp0Sing of Whitmer suweainc that, while the men may haxu talk­ and potentially deadly consequences. Il must the men hatched a plan to kidnap Whitmer ed big. it was undercover FBI informants who stop.” Infiltrating communications, finding as early as June 18, at a protest at the state urged them to pursue plans they would not informants Capitol. Fox met with members of the have initiated on their own. The men charged in the conspiracy alleged­ Wolverine Watchmen, a self-proclaimed mili­ Fixe of the six defendants were m court ntesday.' 1 s Garbin. Brandon Caserta, Daniel ly used encrypted chats to communicate with tia group, to discuss carrying but the scheme Harris, Kalcb Franks and Adam Fox with the one another, though at one point they feared before the Nov. 3 election.Trask testified. magistrate considering only the bonds of they had been infiltrated by a mole and moved According to the FBI. Fox told the bureau Harris. Caserta and Franks at the hearing. ,A to a different encryption service. A confiden­ after his arrest of a plan hi leave Whitmer on sixth man. Barry Croft, was arrested in tial informant was pan of chats on both ser­ a boat.iiv the middle oftLake Michigan, dis­ Delaware and is awaiting extradition to vices. abling the boat's engine to strand her. The suspects initially used an app Michigan. Fox and members of the Watchmen, who lhe defendants are charged with conspira­ called Wire, where they had a chat titled “F— were already under FBI surveillance, also cy to commit kidnapping and. if convicted, Around and Find Out." discussed jstonning the state capitol. They Each member had an alias they used in lhe concluded they needed at least 200 men for could face up to life in prison. Seven other men, including Michael and William Null, chat logs. The leader of the group. Fox. went the attack, and planned to fire bomb police who attended Delton Kellogg Schools, are by “Alpha F— You". Caserta went by officers stationed in a.nearby lot to prevent facing antiterrorism charges in state court for "Debased lyrant”, Harris went by “Beaker". their response. alleged plots to storm the Michigan Capitol in Franks’s alias was “Red Hot," according to Fox. who lived in thc basement of a vacu­ Lansing and take hostages, including Whitmer. lhe FBI. um repair shop in Grand Rapids at the time, Special Agent Richard Trask of the FBI laid In the chats they discussed potential strate­ met there with Garbin and members of the out the bureau's findings in testimony, which gies. the government claims, using code­ so-called militia to discuss the plan June 20. is described below. words. One plan included “making a cake and Over the course of the next few months, they Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam a potential sending it" or “sending cupcakes." which periodically held training sessions and even­ target Trask said were codes for creating and send­ tually decided to kidnap Whitmer from her According to Trask, Fbx and 12 others met ing an explosive to their target. They also vacation home in northern Michigan. on June 6 in Dublin, Ohio, to hatch a plan to :suggested posing as a pizza man, and assault­ Their post-kidnapping plans were murkier, overthrow thc government. They discussed ing the governor when she answered the door, testimony Tuesday indicated. kidnapping an elected governor who they he testified. The men never settled on what to do with believed was a “tyrant.” While Whitmer was On Aug. 18, with lhe chat title now changed Whitmer once they had seized her. They * wanted to place her on trial for treason for her ockdovyn orders, which they deemed were unconstitutional, but kept shifting a decision °n where to keep her. Plans were discussed to h’kc her to Wisconsin or other out-of-state areas. Then there was thc boat plan. Mr. Fox stated his plan or his idea was to take her out on the boat and leave her out in t tc middle of Lake Michigan.’’ Trask said. On the weekend of Sept. 12. three cars left m- ^?can,Pmcnt Oarbin owned in Luther, Michigan, and drove late at night to Whitmer’s family vacation home. Nine men. one of whom turned out to be an FBI undercover employee, had cased out the home for a potential attack and kidnapping. Preparing a defense Defense attorneys appeared to be preview­ ing an “entrapment” defense. The lawyers said their clients were not leaders of lhe alleged conspiracy, and may have been pres­ sured to take part in the plot by someone who turned out to be an FBI informant. Scott Graham, Franks’ attorney, argued that many militias are actually “crack pots” and military wannabes.” lie said thc group would not have taken drastic action had lhe FBI informants not pushed them toward it. Michael Darragh Hills, counsel for Caserta, argued that his client had not done anything illegal.Thc weapons Casertaowns were legal, and he had a permit to carry. His client was ■ not present when the ^4 ■ .1 °™o were discussed or tested. homas William Parker Douglas argued that his client. Harris, also was not present during the trip to the governor s vacation home. . , A ‘danger to the community In denying Harris. Caserta and Franks pre­ trial release on bond, the magistrate found that none of them posed a flight risk. Instead, she found that all three were a danger to the community if they were released. The magistrate cited Harris s reckless behavior, which includes a plot (he never acted upon) to kill a police officer and the officer’s wife in Maine, after a conflict with one of his friends. Caserta was deemed a risk based on com­ ments he had made in unrelated videos about wanting to kill law enforcement, lhe magis­ trate said such sentiments made it unreason­ able for a parole officer to be assigned to him while he was out on bond. Franks was denied bond due to his alleged significant involvement in the conspiracy, which included being part of thc group that cased the governor’s vacation home. Attorneys for Fox and Garbin are expected to make their arguments for bond at a hearing Friday. Toolkit helps small businesses navigate remote work arrangements To aid with thc transition to remote work, the Small Business Association of Michigan has created a new guide aimed to help small businesses navigate and thrive in remote­ work situations. “lhe pandemic has created many unprece­ dented circumstances for small businesses and that includes the transition to a predomi­ nately remote workforce for many compa­ nies,” SBAM President Brian Calley said in an Oct. 14 press release. “Sorting out these arrangements can sometimes be complicated, so we created this resource to help businesses set up policies and arrangements that will help both the business and the employee thrive during these times.” The Small Business Owner’s Guide to Remote Work was created in partnership with the American Society of Employers and NuWave Technology Partners, lite toolkit provides information and tips for small busi­ nesses on remote work policies, remote work employee communications, tips for produc­ tive remote work for both employers and employees, cyber security and IT outsourcing, investing in employees’ education, and employee assistance programs. Since the pandemic began. SBAM has been working to help navigate the complex and fluid issues that have arisen as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. Support has included resources for getting back to work, sourcing personal protective equipment, information on loan and funding options and more. The guide can be downloaded at sbam.org/ the-small-business-owners-guide-to-remotework. �Tho Hastings Banner —Thursday. October 15, 2020 ■- Pago 13 The Hastings DANNER SECTION B Thursday, October 15, 2020 ■ Victims’ families speak out in Burnett sentencing “I could never convey in words the pain that we will have to live with for the rest of our lives,” Bryce DeGood’s mother LeAnne tells Judge Michael Schipper. Jon Burnett sat straight and still during the sentencing. Ho said only two words: ‘Thank you." Joseph Scott Gray, father of victim Mallory Gray speaks at Jon Burnetts sen­ tencing. There’s a groat place in hell for you,” he told Burnett- Taylor Owens Staff Writer It was emotional day in court, as the vic­ tims and their family members got the chance to speak their mind to Jon Bumett before he was sentenced Friday. “I’ve had 15 months to think about what I would say to Mr. Bumett. given the chance.” Dean DeGood, father of victim Bryce DeGood. said. Dean DeGood, his wife Leanne, and their son Kyle gave victim impact statements to Judge Michael Schipper, before Bumett was sentenced. They spoke at a podium at the front of thc courtroom. Bumett sat still behind them, and looked straight ahead, avoiding eye contact whenever anyone turned around. “Feel free in my court to say whatever you want,” Judge Michael Schipper told them. “It’s an opportunity, maybe, for some cathar­ sis. So feel free to be open to speak as you want.” Schipper sentenced Bumett to life in prison without the possibility of parole for two counts of first-degree murder and 33 other violent crimes he committed on June 21. 2019. Bumett. 64. of Orangeville, shot and killed his neighbor, 73-year-old Gar} Peake, in Peake’s house in Orangeville. Bumett testi­ fied before a jury in August that he went to Peake’s house to get a gun he had loaned him. He shot and killed Peake, then went out­ side, where DeGood, 21. of Haslett, was walking the power lines for a tree service company. Bumett claimed he shot DeGood in self-de­ fense. but witnesses said they saw Bumett shoot DeGood in the back, from point-blank range. Dean DeGood thanked the witnesses, law enforcement officers, first responders and court officials involved in the case. “AU of you gave my son Bryce one last thing - a voice.” Dean DeGood said. “A voice thal Mr. Bumett took away fiom him. on June 21. 2019. for no apparent reason. You took away a son from my wife and I. You took a brother and friend away from my other son Kyle. You took a soulmate away from Bryce’s girlfriend Carly.” “You took a great person, who was an even better friend to so many people.’ Dean DeGood continued. “You took the ability ot countless friends from sharing their chil­ dren’s’ experiences in life, for fear it would upset us.” “When 1 look at you Mr. Bumett, I see evil.” he said in closing. ”1 see a person who took out his anger on two innocent people and ended their lives. “As a Christian, I was always taught not to judge people. That’s not my job. But God will judge you someday. I was also taught to for­ give. Maybe I will be able to do that someday, but today is not that day. “Don’t take my wavering voice as a sign ol Weakness, but as an indication of the great Jove and memories I have, and always will have, of Bryce.” , “My brother was a young man. Bryce s brother Kyle DeGood said. “He had his life taken from him. and the only thing I can real­ ly think about, everyday, is everything that could have happened, everything that should have happened, if his life wasn't taken from him.’’ . “BtJ'ce Nathan DeGood came into Uns World on 2-17 1998.” His mother LeAnne *id. with tears in her eyes. "I felt the moment we brought him home that our hum y was con>piete. On 6-21. 2019, for reasons 1 wit "'Ver understand. John Burnell took him 1mm US and left a huge hole, not only i family, but in the hearts of his extended Dean DeGood, father of Bryce DeGood, gives his victim impact statement. Barry County Prosecutor Julie Nakfoor Pratt tells Judge Michael Schipper how much the case affected her emotionally. “I did want Mr. Burnett to know how much pain he's caused," Francine Robinson, mother of Bryce DeGood’s girlfriend Carly Robinson, said. "That day still haunts me through night­ mares,” Mallory Gray said during the sen­ tencing of Jon Burnett. family and friends as well." “Bryce was a stranger to John and not a threat to anyone.” LeAnne DeGood contin­ ued. “He was only there to do the job he loved. I could never convey in words the pain that we will have to live with for the rest of our lives. I will never get another hug or an ‘I love you.’” She told Schipper she lives with the thought that she did not have her daily hug with her son that morning, because his hands were full of tools. She still wonders whether he would still would have been in the w'rong place al lhe wrong time, if .she had let him sleep in a bit later that day. She also thanked each of the witnesses who stopped at thc crime scene and tried to help. We know how difficult this has been for you,” she said. “But know you were a voice for Bryce since he could not speak for him­ self, and |you) made a difference. We appreci­ ate everything you did in thc moment to try and help Bryce. And for those thal are still wondering, ‘What if?’ or wishing in hindsight you could have done more, please remember there is only one person responsible for our loss. And you did the best you could in the moment .with the information you had, and for many, lhe threat you faced. Our wish is for you to live like Bryce, and find great joy in lhe big and little things. You will always have a place in our hearts.” She finished by thanking each of lhe police officers, first responders, court officials and the jury “for coming to a decision we feel resulted injustice for Bryce,” Francine Robinson, lhe mother of Bryce DeGood’s girlfriend Carly Robinson, also spoke. Jon Burnett’s defense attorney Gordon Shane McNeill did not make any com­ ment during the sentencing. Judge Michael Schipper said he and attorney Steven Storrs gave Burnett "the best defense anyone could have gotten." She told the story of the fust time she met Bryce, and the affection he wasn’t embar­ rassed to show for her daughter, in front of his friends. -What 1 personally learned from him. from interacting with hint, was his kindness, his gentleness, his acceptance, his sensitivity, his passion, his wisdom, hi, compassion and above all his love, Robinson said. She also thanked Dean DeGood, for driving to her house after Bryce was murdered, to tell her what had happened m person. “Just as hard as it is to tc|| somebody what love means - we grieve because we love - so it’s just as hard to tell somebody what vou’re feeling inside.” Robinson told Schipper Al one point she turned t0 Blln,ett behind her, who did not meet her eye. “I did want Mr-,B'>niett l0 kninv h(w pain he s caused, sne said. Mallory Gray, a college snmcnt who passed by the scene and tried to help after sh Bryce alw spoke. Bumett threatened her «■''> ' I*, and told her to leave that day one of the 35 cl)Mges found guilty of. “I came upon Bryce { shock,” Mallory Gras said. , . think of him every day. Not a day I don’t think ol the events (? 1 ...... .a±„, Mallory Gray, who Jon Burnett threatened with a gun, watches as her father speaks. that I did see him. I saw a lot. I saw more than I ever should ever have had to see in my entire life.” She said Carly Robinson reached out to her, and said she appreciated everything Gray tried to do. Robinson told Gray she and Bry ce DeGood would have been friends. “That day still haunts me through night­ mares,” Mallory Gray continued. “But it will be no longer after today. Because, Mr. Bumett.” She turned to face him, while he continued to look straight ahead. “I do not fear you, and I will never fear you ever again. “I want to say I’m sorry to nil lhe other victims who had to go through this, she con­ cluded. “We are strong, and we are strong together, and we did it. We may not have put him in this position, but we put him away, and that’s what matters." Mallory’s father. Joseph Scott Gray, spoke last. A disabled veteran, he projected a boom­ ing voice through the courtroom. “What you’ve done to our society, to lhe families, is wrong," Joseph Scott Gray said. “I have the fortunate ability to never for­ give you for what you’ve done to my child. You’re not there in thc middle of the night, or al two o’clock in the morning, to say every­ thing’s okay. That’s what you don’t see. You just see lhe people thal are here, that get hurt. I’m speaking for all the people who gel those phone calls. Your honor. I’m a victim to what this man did." -I hope, in some way, thal where you go. that your fear will be the same fear that you put in thal daughter’s life," he continued. “I hope every day that you end up feeling thal fear - every day till the day that you die. Because there’s a great place in hell for you. I’ll probably be there right beside you. Trust me, if I am there, you will face a little bit more than what the devil’s got for you.” After the victim impact statements, it was Prosecutor Julie Nakfoor Pratt’s turn to speak. She thanked the first responders and law enforcement who worked on the case, partic­ ularly Detective Sergeant Janette Maki, who led the investigation. Pratt said she had never had so many people who worked on a case tell her how much it had affect them. She also said how much thc case had affect­ ed her. “I struggled, your honor, I struggled hard." Pratt said. “Prosecutors are supposed to be strong, and we’re supposed to seek justice, and we’re suppose to be hard, and we’re not We’re not because we’re actually people’, we’re people with families and we’re people with feelings." “1’11 steel myself as much as it takes to get through lhe trial. But at night, or on the week­ ends, I can’t stop thinking about when I went to the scene." Pratt wept as she recalled going to the. scene of thc crime, and seeing DeGood’s body. She recalled the details of his clothing, lhe tools of his job. his tattoos and his jewelry. “That profoundly affected me,” Pratt said. Continued next page �board eyes emergency power policy Pago H - Thursday. October IS. 2020 - Tho Hastings Banner SENTENCING, continued from page 13 —— -He does not deserve -W moro oft “How innocent, and so was Mr. Peake, the) ’re time and energy." Schipper said. said.“' Anything I both very innocent. So what 1 want to say to. do today or say today should be on a positive Mr. Bumett is you need to sit and think about. to the people thal matter. Lhe rest of your lift, the profound and eternal note The only thing he said for Burnett, was m effect on people, and the collateral damage relation his faith. faith tells me that Mr. that you have caused.” "Mv to Christian *‘I think everybody’s waited a long, long Bumett still has an opportunity, and I don t lime to have you hand down lhe sentence for know what he’ll do with the rest of his hfc m this,” she said to Schipper. ’‘I’ve never felt so prison, because he will die in prison. God s content to be able to recommend life without still there. It’s amazing to me. It s hard for me lhe possibility of parole, because there’s abso­ to comprehend, but he still has an opportuni­ lutely nowhere cist* Mr. Bumett belongs.” Burnett’s defense attorneys. Gordon Shane ty. ' ”He spoke directly to DeGood’s friends and McNeill and Steven Storrs, did not have any­ family members in the courtroom. thing to say. "He was fortunate to have people that loved Schipper asked Bumett if he had anything him every day, and that’s thc peace you have to say. to have as a brother and as parents. That you ''Thank you.” was hi.s only response. loved him. he loved you. you knew that, 3ou Schipper said thal while he remains impar­ peace.” tial and will alway s uphold thc law, he still have "You’ll never understand it. You’ll never be struggles emotionally with certain cases able to understand it. Mr. Bumett could never “I absolutely have emotions,” Schipper explain it to you. and you have to have peace said. “When 1 slop having emotions 1’11 stop that." he added. doing the job, because then I’m not really with “You have to l>c careful with anger. It won’t human anymore.” help, and it can really gel in the way of your “Particularly difficult,” he said, as his voice life. Anger is not going to change what hap­ shook. ”1 have two sons, not that much older. pened. and it only means that you’re giving It’s hard to imagine what I would be going Mr. Bumett more time and energy which he through.” He noted that drugs and alcohol were a does not deserve.” He also spoke to Mallory' Gray. factor in the case, and a daily factor in his "No one who came upon thc scene did any­ courtroom, and warned people to be careful thing wrong." with them. "If I were you, go to bed tonight, say a Schipper also praised the efforts of law prayer and sleep peaceful, and think about enforcement in the case, such as Barry County ‘How am I going to use this for lhe rest of my Deputy Kevin Erb. “He drives up to a scene with a murderer, life to be belter and help other people out.’” Schipper said he sometimes struggles with sitting there with a gun. so his life was that close to being over, and what did he do?” deciding how to sentence people, but this was Schipper asked. "Here's thc amazing part - he not one of those cases. "This is a no-brainer,” Schipper said. "This was such a professional. He treated this man. who just murdered two people, professionally, is very, very easy. I’m simply going to give with actual concent and compassion that I him the max that I can give him on every­ don’t know I could have done. He talked to thing.” After lhe sentencing, Pratt issued a state­ him like a human being.” ment on thc case. He noted thal every one in the criminal jus­ “There is no logical explanation for this tice system treated Bumett belter than he had treated other people, and referred to thc hard tragedy, Pratt wrote. “It is our opinion that work of Burnett’s defense attorneys, McNeill Mr. Bumett was motivated by anger and ven­ geance when he committed these selfish, vio­ and Storrs. • “He got the best defense anyone could have lent acts. There is no place in society for Mr. gotten, and that’s what our system demands,” Bumett. We are grateful that he will spend the rest of his life in prison. Schipper said. It is our hope that the wonderful memories "It’s little ol’ Barry County, but 1 tell you what, it’s an amazing place. I sec it every Gary Peake and Bryce DeGood left here will continue to touch so many lives just as they day.” When preparing for the sentencing. did in life. We hope of all ot the victims and Schipper said he thought of a lot he could say their families find some closure with the con­ to Bumett. but had decided not to. He thought clusion of the trial and sentence, and our of what his father w'ould have said, that anger greatest hope is that they can someday find the peace they so deserve.” couldn’t help anything. Th© Barry Intermediate School District meets for a socially distanced board meeting Tuesday m Luke Staff Writer wrong, it will. I don’t think it should die.” ISD board members ultimately agreed to hold off on a decision until the November Fronchcck K B-1rrvCCi U." ,OCX,CI'J emergency powers to , ucrmcd»ate School District wori^s.n nden’ Richard FrankIin iS *n lhc But a boatf of cducatfon vote on thc chimgc will not come until at least November. Board members discussed the recommendauon from NEOLAthe intermediate distnct s policy provider.’to give the ISD super­ intendent an increased level of power during c current school year due to uncertainties Cr»n ’he on2°‘ng COVID-19 pandemic, n u nt nie a |juJe nervous.” President Bob Becker said during the board meeting lucsday morning. “pin hesitant to move for­ ward on this becaUse jt seems a little too broad. Hastings Area Schools Superintendent Dan Remenap and Delton Kellogg Board of Education President Kelli Martin attended the meeting. Remenap said the Hastings Board of Education approved the NEOLA recommen­ dation for the Hastings schools with the cave­ at that Remenap must run things’ by the board An extension of Superintendent Richard Franklin’s power was on the agenda for the Barry Intermediate School District Board of Education during their regular meeting. Judge Michael Schipper gives advice to grieving family members. “You have to be careful with anger. It won't help, and it can really get in the way of your life,” Schipper said. (Photos by Scott Harmsen) To see Barry County Judge Michael Schipper sentencing Jon Burnett, go to: https://vimeo.com/468005766 Hastings Township OKs purchase of locked mailbox, wages Sophie Bates Staff Writer The Hastings Charter Township Board dis­ cussed a new mail system and 2021 wages during its meeting Tuesday night. With the influx of absentee ballots this year. Township Clerk Anita Mennell request­ ed the township approve funds to obtain a locked mailbox. Currently, when no one is at the township hall to collect mail — which often includes absentee ballots or property tax bills — the mail is delivered to Mennell’s home. "As it currently stands, if no one’s here, lhe mailman automatically just leaves the mail for here at my house. Can’t keep that going on forever,” Mennell said. As a result, an expenditure of $500 was unanimously approved for the purchase and installation of a locked mailbox. The board also approved the township board’s wages for 2021, increasing them by 1.3 percent to account for inflation. “As has been our practice for the past sev­ eral years, we have been going with the costof-living adjustment — the Social Security. That came out as 1.3 percent this year, so I took the 2020 wages, multiply them, got thc additional 13 percent,” Mennell said. Township Supervisor Jim Brown noted that lhe township recycling facilities are being used by residents across the county, putting a strain on the system that could cause damage in the future. Brown suggested requiring some form of ID to ensure only lhe township residents can use the recycling facilities. This issue was not resolved at Tuesday’s meeting. meeting. In other business, thc hoard: • Received an update from Franklin. He said the district is set to receive a $65,000 MI Connect grant from the state. The money will be distributed between Delton Kellogg and Hastings, but it’s unclear how the funds will Ik* broken up. p—---- Barry ISD board trustee Marsha Bassett joins the board for her first in-person meeting Tuesday morning. president. Martin said her board would be discussing thc policy during its meeting Oct. 19. NEOLA, originally based in Ohio, is an organization that serves school districts in Ohio. Florida, West Virginia, Indiana. Michigan and Wisconsin by reviewing state and federal law to make policy recommenda­ tions for school boards to adopt. Secretary Deb Hatfield said she would feel confident approving the policy if the superin­ tendent had to run decisions by the board president before making the final call. The new powers that would be afforded to Franklin, should he be granted them, would allow him to make decisions immediately rather than having to wait for monthly board meetings for approval. "It’s nothing until it is something,” Franklin told board members. "If there is no motion and support, it just dies for lack of support, and that is OK.” “I don’t think it should die for lack of sup­ port,” Hatfield said. “With some minor modi­ fications, I think the document is an important one to have. "We don’t know what the next six months will look like," she said. “We are getting into the lime where if something is going to go Board President Bob Becker expresses concerns with conferring immediate power to act, without consulting the board, for the superintendent. • Delegated Becker as lhe board representa­ tive for the Michigan Association of School Boards Delegate Assembly. Hatfield is the alternate. • Approved administrative contracts through June 30. 2021. for Assistant Superintendent Dawn Weeks, who will make $94,071. and Special Education Supervisor Krissy Riggs, who will make $82,000. • Accepted a NEOLA update on policies regarding threatening behavior by a student toward staff. • Discussed district and superintendent goals. Board members planned further discus­ sion for their Nov. 10 meeting. CASES, continued from page 1 event as a result of the health department’s tracking and tracing processes," Maple Valley Superintendent Katherine Bertolini said Wednesday. “They are not considered a trans­ mission risk to anyone in lhe district current­ ly.” “We have had no incidence of COVID spread in our buildincs as of today,” she added. "So far, our mitigation efforts arc working.” Bertolini also mentioned numbers released by the health department showing a number Of recent cases in Vermontville Nashville. Tile virus is definitely on our doorstep and we have to be even more vigilant to keep our protocols effectively in place.” Bertolini said. Hastings Area Schools Superintended Dan Remenap reported that there are no current Posmve cases, but four pe<,ple are in e"(ed m rCl0Se co"lact **'h SOn'Wne ' ’ tested positive fOr COVID-19. 7° <?a,e: Rejnenap said four people from lhe school district x , ..i nositivc for COV.D-uX allhihschool and one “ ^middlescho^ latkewood • ? )s completed tts Icn students x .^nntined as a precaution been cl“c cont^"'?weretden^ tested positive k. 1111 in<i,V’.n sWdents have ‘cslcd Ixisiti^ofthelO^ toins. Superintendent c Call any time to place your Hastings Banner classified ad 9 Or *h(>* no posnive caJ? Schools, d students. * °l COVID- 1,1 Jd Friday. or member '"nd'k"1 Kyle Corle« -»id onc/^ Another VudVn. ‘<<’UIX * 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 - h•■'X™ (> positive c3‘ said. Irving Township was not expected to have a quorum for its meeting Wednesday night, according to Township Clerk Sharon Olson Olson is ill and was tested for the COVID-19 virus, but the test came back negative. Township Treasurer Lynnette Wingcier is in quarantine because of an exposure to COVID19. Olson said. The meeting is likely to be rescheduled for next Wednesday, Olson said. Two staff members at Thomapple Manor tested positive for COVID-19 during routine testing last week, but Administrator Don Haney said they are believed to have been false positives. Since the positive test, both staff members have each had a rapid test and two nasalpharyngeal tests, all of which came back nega­ tive. Haney said neither staff members have symptoms, or a known history of contact with someone with COVID-19. “We are about as positive as we can Ik* that this is a false positive.” Haney said. Technically, the) can only be recorded as false positives if lhe lab that performed the tests conducts another test w ith the same sam­ ple with a negative result. Haney .said. With lhe amount of tests labs are handling. Haney said it would be unlikely the) would have the time to go back and find the original sample, and conduct a second test. Regardless, Thomapple Manor treated the cases as if they were positive. and put visita­ tions on hold while the) awaited further tests. “Given the increase in cases in the state and Barry County, it would be very prudent to treat them as positives.” Haney said. “We arc starting to see the inklings of a secund wave - it certainly appears to me anyway.” State health officials said Michigan hospi­ tals treated the most COVID 19 patients since late May; and reported 30 new confirmed coronavirus deaths. Those death figures were the highest since June. ’Die rising death toll comes as 1,011 patients were treated in Michigan hospitals for con­ firmed or suspected COVID-19. the most since May 28. By comparison, thc state had as many as 4AM COVID-19 patients in April. _ The state reported 1.237 new continued coronavirus cases on Tuesday, pushing the seven-day average to over 1.100. They reported 1,809 new confirmed coro­ navirus cases for Sunday and Monday, keep­ ing the daily average over I .(XX). And for the past three days of testing, the positive test rate exceeded 4 percent, lhe tin>t time since late May it has been above 4 per­ cent for three consecutive days. Case counts remain elevated in die western Upper Peninsula but also in western and southwestern Michigan, with Kent, Ban), Calhoun and Kalamazoo counties seeing higher counts and the rate of daily cases per IOOJOOO in population. Hospitalizations rose again, with 941 patients ot confirmed or suspected COVID-19 now being treated in hospitals across the state1 hat’s a slight increase since 927 were report­ ed last Thursday. Seven new deaths were reported as well, bringing thc total to 6.898 confirmed COVID19 deaths. 3 his pandemic has been going on for *a really long time; we’re all feeling it. Suma said, "It’s so easy to gel frustrated aud keep up with lhe rapid pace of news comu'S oul.” We do really appreciate that that can cause a lot ol fatigue, but now is more import^11 than ever to slay safe,” she said. Suina encouraged people to continue w ear»ng masks, washing hands and social distanc­ ing. Each effort alone may not make a pcri‘on completely safe, but together they create a strong barrier against COVID 19. Suma said, “We can’t emphasize enough important these strategics arc.” ftdge Magazine contributed io this report* �J’eelchaihaccessible Playground opens ln Tyden Park r* >_ • A rikk Writer ^unty^XXrof ?ren'°n)' wUh ,hc B«">' cd last week's n Con,mcr'-'«: commcnioralchairstcccZibU ^ninE 01 a "heelWednesday \Vhi|P1a>8"Jwd »■ Tyden Pnrk ■he Si, ,r u,he f,rM of iu kind in cessiblc phvemi *\ •’ ijC Ol,'> whee chair-acJeny CzLL“r n8S-C''' Mi'nap" _ ''l,aS been hugely used in lhe short time it’s beep open.” Czarnecki said at the rib­ bon-cutting ceremony. ‘‘Families love it.” The Douglas A. and Margaret E. DeCamp Foundation funded thc project with a $74 .(XX) donation; the playground was of no cost to the city. Jim DeCamp, executive director of the Douglas A. and Margaret E. DeCamp Foundation said his mother. Margaret DeCamp, contacted lhe city about funding a wheelchair swing after she saw a video depict- Fresh dirt and wood chips cover the ground around the newly opened playground in Tyden Park. After two weeks of construction, workers finished pacing the wheelchair-accessible paths leading up to the playground. Hastings City Council member John Resseguie, Jim DeCamp, Matt DeCamp. Mayor David Tossava, City Manager Jerry Czarnecki and city council member Bill Redman stand for the ribbon cutting ceremony. Jim DeCamp and Tossava cut the ribbon, cele­ brating the playground’s opening. “Let’s just enjoy the sounds of children laughing for years to come," Jim DeCamp said. The specialized wheelchair swing — which cost S24.000 — stands separate from the playground itself, but the two entities are i connected by a short path. I ing one Iasi fail. should be able io have lhe pleasure of play. “She just saw this video, and it was pre- and obviously. Ihose who do have disabilities cious,” DeCamp said. ,lAH kids of all abilities ^ren’l given lhe same opportunities because an < lhe play equipment isn’t suitable for all abili- ’ ties.” » Margaret DeCamp’s desire to fund a wheel­ chair swing in Hastings coincided with! Czarnecki’s plans to improve city parks — so,, they teamed up for the project. Bev Osterink,; daughter of Margaret and Douglas DeCamp, • headed the project for the foundation, work­ ing with Czarnecki. The playground includes a S24JDOO special­ ized wheelchair swing, which is connected to the playground by a short, paved path. The playground itself is comprised of a variety of traditional equipment — slides, monkey bars,’ trapeze bars and more — but is designed to be . a^ accessible as possible to individuals with a! disability. The playground also includes a teeter-tot: ter-like piece of equipment that shifts left to right, depending on weight distribution. The platform and path leading to it arc wide enough to fit a wheelchair user, along with other individuals. “Anyone who needs wheelchair accessibil­ ity can get to any part of the playground.” Czarnecki said. lhe project was a joint effort between Sinclair Recreation and GameTime, both playground equipment companies, and the Hastings Department of Public Services. “I have seen many young people with their parents utilizing the equipment.” Czarnecki, wrote in a letter to tlie city council. “I want to’ thank lhe DeCamp Foundation for their gen­ erosity to make this equipment a possibility.”, “All kids of all abilities should be able to have the pleasure of play, and obviously, those who do have disabilities aren’t given the same opportuni­ ties because the play equipment isn't suitable for all abilities." Jim DeCamp. (fr°m left) M n __ David Tossava and John Hosseguie W "" « Cl ,“M® ”SSKi- "» up the playground ramp, apple in hand, following his Henry Stefancjn, 2 older brother. Jim DeCamp, executive director of the Douglas A. and Margaret E. DeCamp Foundation �Page 16-Thursday. Octotw IS. Z020- Tho Hastings B*™’* _ — — Saxons and Cardinals fi? i.S lead . Lakewood senior running back Garrett Stank bursts through a hole on a •to Olivet in a GLAC ballgame hosted by the Eagles. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Spans Editor The Saxons’ “never-before" tour through the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference Friday night as they play host to the Coldwater ’Cardinals for homecoming inside Baum ^Stadium at Johnson Field. Never before have the Saxons’ beaten the Cardinals in an Interstate-8 Athletic Conference varsity football game and never before have the Saxons finished on top of the lnlerstate-8 Athletic Conference varsity foot­ ball standings. Hastings will look to cap off a shortened Interstate-8 Athletic Conference season with the best record in the conference. The Saxons are currently 3-1 in conference play and will close out their regular season at Charlotte Oct. 23. Coldwater and Parma Western, the onlx team to best lhe Saxons this fall, are both cur­ rently 2-1 against 1-8 foes and will face-off in the Final week of the regular season. It was Lakewood playing in a battle for a league lead last week, but the Vikings were defeated in their annual showdown with Olivet. Tlie Vikings, who are now 2-2 this season will look to bounce back against a 2-2 Leslie team at Unity Field. Thomapple Kellogg has opened the month of October with back-to-back wins, but will face its toughest test of the month as it plays host to South Christian this Friday night. The Sailors are 4-0. looking to stay unbeaten to set up a showdown with Grand Rapids Catholic Central for the conference championship in the final weekend of the regular season. The Maple Valley Lions are working to prep for a Saturda) afternoon ballgame this week, against Webberville in Nashville. Delton Kellogg took a forfeit victory last week as Saugatuck had to cancel ils contest with the Panthers Friday afternoon because of positive COVID-19 cases in Saugatuck. The Delton Kellogg Panthers are set lo return to action against non-conference foe NorthPointe Christian at 5 p.m. in Delton Friday. The Mustangs are 2-2 this season. Local Standings (W-L, playoff points) Hastings 3-1 (37.950) , Thomapple Kellogg 2-2 (28.000) ‘ Lakewood 2-2 (23500) Delton Kellogg 2-2(19500) Maple Valley (8-player) 1-3 Conference .Standings (overall, conference) Interstate 8 Athletic Conference Hastings 3-1.3-1 Coldwater 3-1,2-1 Parma Western 3-1.2-1 Lumen Christi 2-2,2-2 Marshall 2-2.2-2 Pcnnfield 2-2,2-2 Harper Creek 2-2, 1-2 Northwest 0-3,0-3 OK Cold Conference G.R. Catholic Central 4-0.4-0 South Christian 4-0.4-0 Forest Hills Eastern 3-1.3-1 Cedar Springs 2-2.2-2 Thomapple Kellogg 2-2,2-2 Kenowa Hills 1-3, 1-3 Ottawa Hills 0-4.0-4 Wayland 0-4.0-4 Southwestern Athletic Conference Valley Lawton 4-0,20 Schoolcraft 3-1, 1-0 Delton Kellogg 2-2,2-1 Saugatuck 2-2,0-2 Galesburg-Augusta 0-3,0-2 Greater Lansing Activities Conference Olivet 4-0,3 0 Lakewood 2-2,2-1 Leslie 2-2,2-1 Stockbridge 2-2. 1-2 Perry 0-4,04 Here is a round-up of last week’s local grid­ iron action. Hastings 38, Northwest 21 With the way the offenses ate up yards and clock it only took a couple slops to make the difference. The Saxons got them. Thc Hastings varsity football team improved to 3-1 on the season with a 38-21 ; victory at Jackson Northwest Friday nighL Hastings fumbled the ball away on the first possession of the bailgame, but scored touch­ downs on its next five drives. Robby Slaughter made up for the miscue that ended the Saxons first drive by finishing the Saxons’ next drive with a 26-yard touchdown run thal tied the game at 7-7, with lhe help of Kaidcn Shumway’s extra-point kick. The Saxons took thc lead, 15-7 on a sev­ en-yard touchdown run by [jinny Teunessen and a two-point run by IJ Russell three min­ utes into lhe second quarter and then held a lead for lhe rest of the evening. Saxon quarterback Mason Denton tossed a three-)ard touchdown p:iss to Russell on the final play of the first half and then threw a two-point pass to Evan Eastman to give Hastings a 23-13 lead at the half. Denton then added a pair of touchdown runs in lhe second half, one from two yards out and one from 13 yards. Teunessen added lhe two-point run after Denton’s two-yard touchdown run mid­ way through lhe third quarter. Shumway boot­ ed an extra point after Denton’s 13-yard touchdown run midway through the fourth. Teunessen led lhe Saxon offense with 15 carries for 128 yards. Russell also went over the 100-yard mark, rushing 17 limes for 104 yards. Slaughter had 12 rushes for 52 yards. The Saxons overall compiled 317 yards rushing. Denton completed all four of his pass attempts for 32 yards. Northwest did much of its moving of lhe football though the air. Quarterback Isaiah Grybauskas was 10-of-18 passing for 223 yards and two touchdowns. He tossed a 20-yard touchdown pass to JR Morrow tor a touchdown that pulled his team within 15-13 briefly in lhe second quarter, and then tossed a second TD pass, to Connor Romm, in the fourth quarter. Romm finished the night with three recep­ tions for 93 yards. Teammate Devin Kalis had three receptions covering 42 yards. Victor Ramirez had a team-high 8 tackles for lhe Saxons. Corbin Ulrich and Zach Pern’ had 45 tackles each. Thornapple Kellogg 21, Ottawa Hills 7 The Thomapple Kellogg varsity football team made it two in a row with a 21-7 win over Ottawa Hills al Houseman Field in Grand Rapids Friday night. The Trojans scored the game’s first 21 points, pitching a shut out until the Bengals scored with 23 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter. Ryan Holmes had a team-high 7 tackles for thc Trojans and Richard Heikkila had 4. Scan Flynn had 3.5 tackles and a sack. The TK defense held the Bengals to just 141 yards of offense and only eight first downs. "They flew around they tackled decent,’’ TK head coach Jeff Dock said of his defense. "In doing thal, they were able to keep (hem in front of us. We had good coverage behind, so they couldn’t get their passing game going. I thought we tackled well and we filled holes and kept them contained for lhe most part." Mitchell Middleton carried the Trojan offense, especially late in the game, rushing 18 times for 97 yards and two touchdowns. He scored his team’s first points on a 12-yard touchdown run in the first quarter and then tacked on a five-yard touchdown run with 2:34 to go in thc bailgame. He was also a perfect 3-for-3 on extra-point kicks, and Dock was happy to send him oul onto the field to try a 57-yard field goal, five yards over his school-record, late in the third quarter. That kick came up just short though. “[Middleton) was just the workhorse,” Dock said. "Ijile in lhe game we were able lo give him lhe ball and let him run some clock out. up front they did a gtxxl job late in the game of getting movement and allowing us to just milk lhe clock." Trojan quarterback Reese Garbrechl was 4-of-5 passing lor 71 yards and a touchdown. He hit Cole Shoobridge with a 35-yard touch down pass with two minutes to play in the first half thal ultimately gave I K a 14-0 halt­ time lead. Garbrechl also rushed il limes for 49 yards. Alex Bonnema had two catches for 26 yards for TK. Samuel McKc0Wn ^Vc rushes for 31 yards. Thc Trojans still had some penalties to clean up in the ballgame. Dock said a couple flags wiped oul nice passing plays by his quarterback. The Trojans lost a fumble on the opening drive of the second half, the only turnover of the bailgame. Ottawa Hills scored its touchdown in the final minute when quarterback Scharai Horton connected with Kamarion Craig lor a 33-yard score. Merrill 56, Maple Valley 28 Maple Valley w ill go to work the next two weekends looking to gain some momentum and ideally a seed worthy of a home playoff contest. lhe Lions fell to 1-3 overall this season with a 56-28 loss to the visiting Merrill Vandals Friday night. Merrill had just a 22-16 lead after a 15-yard touchdown pass by Lion quarterback Blaze Sensiba to Hunter Bassett with just over five minutes to play in the firsthalf. Sensiba added the two-point run following that touchdown. Merrill though gofifirr90-yard touchdown run from Logan Heath with 48 seconds to go in lhe first half and then intercepted a Sensiba pass to get the chance to score one more time before the half. A couple [xmalty Hags against the Lions gave the Vandals two untimed downs al the end of the half. Jacob McCormick plowed into the end zone and added a twopoint run to push his team’s lead to 34-16 at the half. The Vandals then outscored the Lions 22-12 in the second half. Logan Heath threw’ three touchdown passes for lhe Vandals in the first half, a 30-yarder and a 39-yarder Conner Ncucnfeldl and a 35-yarder to Cayden Sysak. Neuenfeldt also scored on an eight-yard run in the second half. Sysak added a second TD catch, on a 14-yard pass from McCormick, with 3:45 to go in thc fourth quarter. Zack Breasbois scored the first points of the second half for the Vandals on a 65-yard touchdown run with three minutes to go in the third quarter. Heath finished with seven rushes for 136 yards and Breasbois nine for 126 jards. Hugheston Hackathorn had 20 rushes for 94 yards for the Lions Tyler Rose had a big night running the football too for Maple Valley, carrying it 1 j liines for 87 yards. Sensiba contributed 11 rushes for 50 yards and completed 5-of-p passes for 68 yards. Head coach Marty Martin said his senior quarterback made a couple of tremendous plays to dodge blit2crs On his two touchdown passes. Sensiba’s second TD pass was 3,111 ■yaK*er to Reese Pnx-tor-Burhans in the opening tntnole of the fourth quarter lyler Rose ( TD ran for the L1(>US will, 93 |ell...... re game. I leckaihom led the Lion defense with seven eTchCS Se"siba a|id Cody Wlor had fouf Conch Martin said his defense struggled with the Vandals- speed in spacc- and "lcir stze the rest olThe .in . He was pleased u hV i • -ker Owen Bailey s hSk^»ver40^P'r'Wn,1,nd ’'“■jol'sforiouchbncl’-Garrett Staid'* ’“'‘'."."the end zone from ten yards ‘f't struck 0:00. It wasn't th.. i.; a.s ,e v .. heater a high school football ni"d of buW of though. He la> 0,1 ">o client or two before d a" ex,ra’'Lre hnentan Braydon Wj,K. ’ bl8 «’ph>’ j helped poll him off lh' '7dh",,:1" Ihere Wiv> llr|extra-point attempt. utmeces’-"' (irva|er »'■ .dl’"''Xei>ee and the Lakewood*5 At'ivitie-. lcil)n as it scored a 3() G u Vais‘ly »• 1(.le< arenow ‘’•'>o'e.al|,h^'>frid^.The^I'u(. '^ewmnj '-"anditO-n. Io>sand2-1 Lakewood senior running back Sawyer Stoepker knocks Olivet junior defensive back Mason Molek backwards during a run Friday night at Olivet High School. (P oto by Brett Bremer) lake on Leslie Oct. 16. Tile Viking defense didn’t have an answer for the Eagles’ ground game, led by junior quarterback Clay Flow er and sophomore run­ ning back Ramsey Bousseau. Tie Eagles moved right towards lhe Viking goal-line to open the bailgame, but lost a fum­ ble which the Vikings recovered at the 1-yard­ line. The turnover didn’t hurt the Eagles too badly. Moments later the Vikings were tack­ led in the end zone for a safely. Olivet marched dow n the field again to get a 1-yard touchdown run by Flower and an extra-point by senior Connor Maurer to go up 9-0. Olivet’s next possession ended in a 27-yard touchdown pass from Flower to Maurer and another e.p. _ The Vikings managed just two first downs in the first half, then picked up two more on its first drive of lhe second half before turning the ball over on downs. Thc Eagles went 70 yards in 11 plays to get a 4-yard touchdown run by Flower with 545 seconds left in lhe third quarter. Olivet finished lhe scoring with a 7-yard touchdown run by senior running back Michael Groves. Lakewood got its late touchdown against the Eagle reserves, w ith back up quarterback Nathan Willette running the offense. Willette. Stank. Sawyer Stoepker all kept running hard as the clock wound down. TK feoys9 tennis Ms to state-ranked Tigers in district The Thomapple Kellogg varsity boys’ ten­ nis team was bested in the opening round of its Division 3 District Tournament Wednesday at Holland Christian. The Allegan Tigers lopped the Trojans 7-1. Nick Vreeland had TK’s lone victory , a 6-3. 6-2 win over Jurien Carter at fourth singles. The Tigers won the other seven flights in straight sets. Allegan went on to w in the district champi­ onship, earning lhe tiebreaker in a 4-4 dual with Holland Christian to close out the tour­ nament. The district championship earns the Tigers a spot in this weekend’s Division 3 Lower Peninsula State Finals in Holland. Allegan came into the state tournament ranked 11th in Division 3. just behind the seventh ranked Holland Christian Maroons. Olivet girte pull out three close sets to dmw Saxons The Hastings varsity volleyball team was bested in three hard-fought sets by host Olivet Thursday in a non-conference match. Thc Eagles won by the scores of 25-20, 25-22,25-22. Carly Warner had a team-high nine kills for the Saxons in the loss. Lexi Herblet had seven kills. Hannah Slaughter recorded six blocks for lhe Saxons and Chelsea Eartner had three. Brianna Bame3s led Hastings in assists with 12. KaeliJo West led the Saxon team in ser­ vice points with nine. Olivet got ten kills, four aces and two blocks from Emersyn Whipp, nine digs from Kelly Wheeler and 18 assists from Mackenzie Murray. Hastings was scheduled to return to Interstate-8 Athletic Conference action last night against Parma Western. The Saxons fell to visiting Harper Creek last week in 1-8 play. Warner had four kills and Slaughter two blocks in the loss to lhe lough Beaver team. I he Saxons are slated to return to the court m 1-8 action Oct. 21 at home against Marshall. Trojans andl Saxons g© 1-2 at Holland Calvary Meet Freshmen Cole Greenfield and Adrianne VanDenburg ran their fastest varsity races ever, and so did Hastings senior Aura WahlPiotrowski Saturday. Both lhe Hastings boys’ and girls’ varsity cross country teams finished second to Thomapple Kellogg at Saturday’s Holland Calvary Meet. The Thomapple Kellogg boys ux>k a 24-34 win over the Saxons in the four-team meet. There were three freshmen among lhe first four finishers in the boys’ race. Saxon ninth-grader Caleb LaBoe won the race in 17 minutes 50.7 seconds and his teammate Riley Shulls placed fourth in 18:30.8. Thomapple Kellogg was led by freshman Lucas VanMeter who was second in 18:22.3 The ’Trojan team had junior Camden Reynolds third in 18:30.8. The Saxon team had four freshmen in its lop five. Greenfield placed 24th in his new PR of 23:11.4. Hastings had freshman Jonah Teed eighth in 19.12.7. The Saxons also had senior Oaten Patten 12th in 20:25.1. TK bad six guys finish in the top ten over all. Senior Brennan Lutz was filth in 18:41 8 junior Matthew Smith sixth in 18.42.9, soph­ omore Aidan Buisl 19:46.1 aih| scnjOI Anthony Kinne tenth in 19*51 1 no?h'.v? ;,,u‘ '^I'Pring Prep M scor • i .ell"ug'’ runners to record leant scores tn etther the boys’ or juris’ races. their'Viu*C|IX f 'Ur "ir*S tllc ,OPtc” "bon,n wa l« b - K s' r " S;"'"da>' Thal w ho w ,s lt . So,,h,,,"lw Amelia MacDonald • the race ninner-up in n0 31 6 Her .. ‘■--^r,^onthej;il-,’1^^1^ new PR wi.h i*1 """.v Veiling set a Wald.' hCr OU”,,P'a« •>»'<’ MI> pU-e li^of'xKXh'll't'f PR r“h d junior Allison Iced run I,. '"’I51' a,M’had reason to p|aw .|.irT by l:'stest nice ot the 1k I i 1 ,rti 111 21:28.7. top ten | h ? SC'cn all finish in lhe M»l O no “’UV— ‘or I K were LituK^ Vet,-,, IK'",ark eighth in 22:22.9. ■I'hontpsoti in a'«J 1 «’•»-« l liompson’s he". 2’:l(,-2- That was • he TK I , '""e "u-xeuson. 'toreotnpi^ Gornensoii 14th in” on? hl,d l,e‘'b"’an ! i!' in 25:O7.(> ... : ' VanDenburg 17th 25.09.5 ,Unu’r lla,'nah Crozier 18th in �Tho Hastings Banner — Thursday. October 15, 2020 — Page 17 Hackett bests DK spikers in three sets Gabrielse^with th^ball^urina ftieNqLrnn ^’?tbrand ge,s whisl,ed for a ^ul as ho tries to get around South Christian’s Jordan Christian High School. (Photo by Brett Breme ) °* °K G°,d Conference Tournamenl championship game Monday at South Undefeated Sailors best TK in OK Gold final Brett Bremer Sports Editor One tournament ends and another begins lhe thomapple Kellogg varsity boys’ soc­ cer team avenged an early season loss lo Gmnd Rap^s Christian in the semifinals of the OK Gold Conference Tournament last week, but couldn’t end South Christian’s undefeated run through the 2020 season in the conference final Monday. 1’he Trojans were bested 3-0 in lhe wind and rain at South Christian Monday evening in the finals of the OK Gold Conference Tournament. lhe Sailors, ranked sixth in lhe stale in Division 3, kept their undefeated record intact w ith senior Boston Knapp pro­ viding two goals and assisting on teammate I horn DeVries’ goal in the opening minutes of the championship. The Sailors improve to 12-0-1 on the sea­ son with that one tie a 2-2 deadlock with Caledonia. I K w as 7-4 overall this season heading into its district match-up with Wayland in Middleville last night (Oct. 14). 1 he Trojans downed thc Wildcats 2-0 in lheir OK Gold Conference meeting in Middleville this fall. Game lime between the Trojans and Wildcats Wednesday is set for 6 p.m. 'lhe winner advances to the district semifinals against either Hastings or Plainwell who meet this evening (Oct. 15) in Hastings. Knapp scored his first goal to put the Sailors up 2-0 on the Trojans Monday with 27 minutes remaining in thc first half. Thc Trojans created a couple of their best scoring chances of thc evening as the first half clock wound down. The Sailors had the most dangerous unsuc­ South Christian's Jeff Herrema works to get a shot off as he's chased by Thornapple cessful chances of thc evening, hitting the Kellogg defender Kaiden Pratt during the first half of Monday's OK Gold Conference posts and crossbar a few times, including on a Tournament championship game. (Photo by Brett Bremer) penalty kick late in lhe second half. Knapp scored his second goal, off an assist from Alex Leenstra. 15 minutes into lhe sec­ coach David Wood said. before the Cougars pulled within a goal on a His defense, led by seniors Kaiden Pratt penally kick. ond half. The Trojans defeated Grand Rapids and Graham Price, with great support from One of the TK scores was an own goal from Catholic Central 4-1 on the Cougars’ home .Alexander Harrington and Grant Woods, was the Cougars. Nate Hildabrand, Mitchell turf in the tournament semifinals last strong winning balls in the air, well-orga­ Comer and Austin Chivis found the net for the nized, and communicated well. I rojans. Wednesday evening. 'Hie Trojans took a 2-0 lead in the match “We played some great soccer,’’ IK head Fastest Vikmgs m top 1© at Greater Lansing Championship Lakewood senior Nathan Alford earned a runner-up finish and fellow senior Katie Acker placed sixth as lhe Viking varsity cross country teams competed in the Greater Lansing Cross Country Championship m Grand Txdge Saturday. . Alford finished the Division 2 boys nice in 17 minutes 1.8 seconds. Charlotte senror Bryce Dubay won he Division 2 boys’ race in 16:54.3. while the Alma boys took the learn championship with three guys among the top six finishers in lhe race. Junior Blaze Abell led Alma with a third-place time of 17:20.4. luikcwood junior Aiden Pyle was 36th in 19: 14.5 and sophomore Ryan Alford 44th in 20: 08.1. Alma won lhe boys’ competition with 42 points, ahead of Lansing Catholic 63, Ionia 82, Charlotte 90. Stockbridge 96. Eaton Saxon soccer hosts Plainwell for district opener today lhe Saxons had planned to take on Plainwell on lhe final Saturday before ,|u Mart of the stale tournament. I hat ballfc was postponed will, the two teams set io face °ft this afternoon in Hastings. The Hastings varsity boys’ soccer learn « <ake on the Trojans in the opening round of 'heir Division 2 District Tournament begin ning at 5 p.m. on Pierce Held. Plainwell enters the slate tournament ranked 11th in the stale in Division 2. The Trojans were 8-1-2 overall this season with their only loss coming against a Mattawan team ranked third in the stale in Division 1. Hastings closed out lhe Jnter.state-8 Athletic Conference season finishing in a 1-1 tie with Jackson Northwest Oct. 6. lhe Saxons were 3 2-3 against conference Iocs this fall. Rapids 101 Ov.d-F.lsm 226 and Por(|.,Ild 25|. Lansing Catholic donunalcd lhc jr|s. ra(.c with four girls P ^"8 among lhe l()p scvcn led by runner-up Hannah Pncco, a sophomore who hit thc finish line in 19:)7 ]1 !'0Pnomore Acker placed sixth in the rare\vilh a time of 20:32.2. Stockbridge junior Ry|ce ToEo|) individual champion in 18:30.6, Lansing Catholic finished wilh st.()rc o( just 31 Poi",sf'^'aI^,s second with 92 points, ahead ot Alma 106, f-41Io R . . Charlotte 137. Stockbridge p7 . . ...i LlK.Ov.d-FIsielbbandP.m!^'^^-"'^ Emily Apsey, a senior, ran |K.r las|cs| r.|cc of the tall for the ''kings Wjth a time ()f 22.34.1 that put het tn 19th p|„cc Lakewood had sophomoje Sad, . 33rd in 24:37.3. sophom^ R ™ 35th in 24:43.1a"«^nia., Clairc H^e? 45th in 26:15-3. I-t^oud !(|S(, h ( . . Madason Morel I ••«“<>«> f« hack (| ■* sonal record tH»e '-7. 1 Delton Kellogg senior middle Lizzy Fichtner hits an attack against Hackett Catholic Prep Tuesday evening in Delton. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Hackett Catholic Prep scored a 34) win over Delton Kellogg in Southwestern Athletic Conference varsity volleyball action Tuesday at Delton Kellogg High School. The Fighting Irish won by thc scores of 25-19.25-12,25-15. l he Delton Kellogg girls are scheduled to host Gobles tonight. They will be at thc Mendon Quad Monday and then home again Tuesday to lake on Galesburg-Augusta. Delton Kellogg setter Lexi Blain puts a pass up during her team's SAC contest with Hackett Catholic Prep Tuesday evening. (Photo by Perry Hardin) . Wfcimgs set their ace record m victory ©ver Blackhawks There is a new school-record for aces in a match at Lakewood High School. The Lakewood varsity volleyball team smacked 26 aces with Paige Wolverton hilling aces on the final two sen es of the night as the Vikings finished off an undefeated season of Greater Lansing Activities Conference duals (6-0) Tuesday. lhe Vikings bested lhe visiting Leslie Blackhawks 25-2.25-9.25-7. hikewood set a school-record of 25 aces in a win over Maple Valley in the fall of 2019 and were shooting for thal mark again last week when it took on the Lions, coming up just shy with 22. ’ Sophie Duits. one of iwo senior honored on senior night at LHS Tuesday, had a team-high nine aces. Fellow senior Aubrey O’Gonnan added five. Skylar Bump contributed seven aces, Wolverton four and Alli Pickard had one. . Duits also had three kills, three digs and two blocks. Aubrey finished her senior night performance with ten kills and five digs. Maradith O’Gorman hud a team-high 15 kills for lhe Vikings. Elie Possehn added three kills. Bump had 22 assists lo go with five digs. The Vikings will host the GLAC Championship Tournament Oct. 24. They host a quad of their own this Saturday and then travel to the Schoolcraft quad Oct. 22. I-akewood, ranked second in lhe state in Division 2. also scored three wins Saturday at the Jenison Quad. The Vikings defeated the host Wildcats 25-18, 25-14, Caledonia 25-12. 25-19 and Coopersville 25-21,25-12. Maradith had 28 kills in lhe six sets, adding 15 digs and four blocks. Aubrey had 23 kills and three blocks. Bump chipped in seven kills to go with o5 assists, ten aces, 21 digs and three blocks. Kenzie Wells had 11 kills. Wolverton had seven aces al thc tourna­ ment and Duits five. Carley Piercefidd led lhe Vikings in digs with 25. DK boys close regular season in draw with Blue Devils flic Delton Kellogg varsity boys soccer leant closed out the tegular season inja ramsoaked scoreless draw with Southwestern Athletic Conference foe Lawton Monday l he tie leases the Panthers at 3-6-3 overall ""Delton'was scheduled to eipen the state ,,.,‘tseasmiwith a Division 3 Dt-stnct opener at home against Jonesville Wednesday (Oct. 16).'l hc w inner of that match w ill face either Quincy or Olivet in the district semifinal',. lhe Delton Kellogg Panthers tell 6-1 in a non-conference match last Wednesday (Oct. 7), in Fennville. Hector Jimenez scored Delton Kellogg’s lone goal in the game Gavin Houtkooper made 12 saves for the Panthers in goal. �Pane 18 — Thursday. October 15, 2020 — The Hastings Banner allows South to find holes on TK side Limited block . Brett Bremer Sports Editor South Christian has brought out some of die best in the TK ladies so far this fall. . 1K head coach Tia Cross was really happy with thc way her girls took on thc Sailors in their regular season meeting, and really happy with the way her girls competed Tuesday night. A short-handed Thornapple Kellogg varsity volleyball team played well, but couldn’t quite keep up with the Sailors in the opening round of thc OK Gold Conference Tournament •at South Christian High School Tuesday. South Christian took lhe match in three sets, <■ 25-13.25-16,25-15. “1 was very happy with how wc played as far as covering our hitters,” coach Cross said, “knowing wc were going to get blocked with our smaller front row and lhe scrappy play-1 fell like there were a lot of times wc got the ball over the net when South didn’t expect it to come back. 1 really enjoyed that type of £>Iay and that wc never gave up and never quit pushing even though we knew we were going to have to battle tonight.” The Trojans and Sailors were tied 15-15 in the second set and 14-14 in the third set before the Sailors started to pull away to close things out. South Christian came into lhe conference tournament seeded fourth and the Trojans fifth. TK was without front row regulars Ellie Shoobridge and Tristen Cross as well as Austine Abshagcn. That limited the Trojan block a bit. It wasn’t big swings that really hurt rhe Trojans do.They adjusted to dig balls getting by the block. They couldn’t fill all the holes on the court though and time and again Sailor attackers were able to tip balls into an open spot in thc center of lhe floor thal thc Trojan defenders just couldn’t quite get to. “We changed our defense tonight, based on lhe fact that we didn’t have much of a block because I lost a lot of my front row. We had two players in the front (hat arc about 5’ 6”, so we had to change our defense a little bit based on a softer block," coach Cross said. “I went from a setter up defense, which 1 normally play and that covers my middle very well. I changed it to a rotational defense knowing that they were either going to hit over our blocks or abound our blocks, so that we covered more of the deep comers. If we play our setter up, then we leave the middle back wide open for them to hit. 1 kind of had to pick my demon." Setter Claudia Lems led the Trojans in kills with four and had seven assists .Adrienne Duits had six assists for thc Trojans. Senior Tyah Jefferson had four kills for the Trojans as well. Kiah Nichols had a team-high four digs for TK. Moria Sprague did all right ritr Thfi’thinc with three dcfensivcWnrW iWTTfflrshing blocks. The TK ladies are scheduled to visit St Thornapple Kellogg’s Tyah Jefferson hits a serve during her team's OK Gold Conference match at South Christian Tuesday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Kclloggsville tonight and will travel to Ottawa Hills Tuesday to take on the Bengals in thc second round of the conference tournamenl. MHEL—— .I. »■■■■ ■■■? m ■■ ■■■■ ■- ■■■■ ■ - Thornapple Kellogg setter Claudia Lems puts a set up during her team’s 3-0 loss at South Christian Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lansing Christiaan Biands LHS boys their second defeat tyai8k®ir medals at Ws^Haniidl mvitational for Lion C.C. team won the boys’ race in 16:58.88. Comstock l hc Maple Valley varsity cross country teams tested themselves on the hills at the Park senior Carter Vandermecr was the run­ ner-up in 17:22.18 and Kclloggsville senior Wavland Wildcat Invitational Saturday. Maple Valley senior Curtis Walker earned a Christian Martinez, was third in 17:57.40. 'Hie Maple Valley teams competed in the medal for a top 30 finish and a couple of Lion Division 3 races Saturday in Grand I-edge al Tournament. ladies just missed out on the medals. Thc Lakewood boys bested Leslie in their lhe Greater Lansing Cross Country Walker placed 27th with a time of 20 min­ tournament semifinal match-up before falling Championship. utes 33.01 seconds. Walker placed 38th in 19:58.2 and Adam “The course had three loops that were technieal and in some places difficult, with lots of Blakely 52nd in 29:13.2 in lhe boys’ race. Adam svas on pace for his best time ot the trail running as well as four steep chmbs for each loop. 1 w»s worried when I saw that season before getting sick in the final 150 Walker's second mile split was almost a min­ meters. He had his fastest one-mile and twoute slower than usual, but he put in thc extra mile splits of lhe season, and was pushing to nfTort to make up for it in the third mile for a beat Perry's number six runner - a Greater grea^finish.” Mapltf Valley head coach Tiffany 1 Jinsing Aclivities Conference rival. Adam had a three-minute lead on his foe before he ^'flis'teammate Adam Blakely placed 45th in dropped to the ground just beyond lhe finish. “When he heard lhe spectators start to The Lions celebrated their second “2.000” 28:24.8. , . , .. . „ cheer for lhe other runner, he pushed himself “ [Adami said he was okay with his lime, milestone of the season Tuesday with senior coach Blakely said. “He lold me he felt thal to finish just roughly 30 seconds in from of outside hitter Keilyn Carpenter surpassing lhe the climbs really slowed him down after the him,” coach Blakely said, “still completing mark during the team’s weekend appearance second mile, and he jusl tried to maintain his his goal tor lhe day. It’s one of those proud al the Dansville Invitational. coaching moments thal we can’t make our Carpenter slammed her 2XXX)th varsity kill P lTlie Maple Valley girls’ team had freshman runners do it. they strive to do their best on in the third set of her team’s 2-1 win over 1 illy Faurot place 31st in 25:15.81 and fresh­ their own." Novi Christian Saturday in Dansville. Faurot led lhe Lion girls’ leam with a man Nadia Martin 32nd with a new personal Carpenter is currently 19th all-time in thc 22nd-place lime of 22:28.1. Martin placed record time ot 25:26.65. Michigan High School Athletic Association “Lilly Faurot said she didn l expect the 46th in 26:25.0. Faurot was 48 seconds faster record book for career kills. hills to be so tiring, and she jusl tried lo main­ than she’d ever been before. The Maple Valley varsity volleyball team ”[Faurol[ is really excited to see her limes tain her pace through the race," coach Blakely has been shaken up a bit with senior setter come down, and says she’s been focusing said. “ Nadia Martin had another great perfor ­ Trista Medina oul of lhe line-up since she was mance, running her fastest ever time, on a more in practice, now that she knows what able to celebrate her 2.000lh varsity assist in difficult course. Her splits once again were she can do. She believes she can gel faster* lhe Lions Greater Lansing Activities very consistent, only gaining 30 seconds or and wants lo think about doing well at Conference contest with Lake wood Oct. 6. less each mile, and making up a lot of posi­ Regionals," coach Blakely said. Lakewood and Stockbridge dropped the “Our other freshman. Nadia Martin, had Maple Valley ladies to 4-2 in GLAC play this tions in lhe race. ’l he Lion ladies’ team also had senior her fastest first and second miles of the sea­ fall with wins over lhe Lions in those last two Alyson Gusey place 51st in 36:21.89. * ____ ____ son. She said she started cramping during lhe conference match-ups. Stockbridge bested lhe “Alyson Gusey had a great race, especially ’third end * * mile ’ and’ just tned‘ to ‘hang _ on. In the _____ j Maple Valley girls 25-16. 26-24. 25-18 since she had to run most ofit on her own. and she u........ ’ seconds * from * -her -best time ever. was only Tuesday. vet she ran her second fastest time ot lhe sea­ She was happy lo see what she accomplished ”Our girls who are currently playing in in thc race, and knows what she can improve son,’ coach Blakely said. positions that are new to them are doing a lhe Hamilton girls won the race in tor her next race to push pasi that third mile phenomenal job for the situation they have Wayland, besting lhe hosl Wildcats by a point and run her fastest race.” been put in.”Lion head coach Surah Carpenter 55-56. Unity Christian placed third with 67 said. ”We are however definitely ready to get points, ahead of Hopkins 101, Comstock Park things back lo normal.” _ 120, Fennville 137 and Martin 148. Keilyn had nine more kills in the loss and Maple Valley senior Keilyn Carpenter celebrates her 2 Kill with ’ier Wayland had the first two girls across the Wilkes contributed seven. Olivia Roush had va2 Stockbridge finish Ime. Freshman Ava Makowski won in seven assists and Emma Pierce six. Ixxi coach/mother Sarah Carpenter following the Lions’ GLAC 20:44.13 and sophomore Olivia Barabas was Booher struck four aces. Keilyn led the Lions Tuesday. Carpenter hit the milestone Saturday at the ^ansvilie^-^honal. in digs with 17 and Booher, Wilkes and Roush S Hamilton won the boys’ race by a point as chipped in 11 digs each. well. 50-51 over Unity Christian. Comstock lhe Lions went 2-1 at Dansville Saturday, hit eight. Keilyn finished lhe three matches The I.i,>ns nl-, <-| -\C nMrtvh of Paik was third with 73 points, ahead of scoring a 22-25. 25-19, 25-16 win over Novi with 38 kills. Wilkes bad 14 kills. Pierce put the regular seL*11*" ••>'*|u,i»e upi"« Wayland 82. Fennville 113 and Hopkins 148. Christian and a 25-J 6,26-19 win over Durand. up 34 assists and Roush finished with 1‘ 1 ('brisu ,',' ‘,|| •«>■>' O" Unity Christian junior Gavin VanSolkcma Portland bested lhe Lions 25-10,25-15. •or Parent.. lhe" " assists and a team-high 45 digs. Roush had ten aces on thc day and Keilyn - The 13-2-1 Lakewood varsity boys’ soccer team will open thc state postseason with a Division 3 District opener against Grand Rapids Wellspring Prep this afternoon al Lake wood High School. The two Viking losses this fall have both been to Lansing Christian. The Pilgrims best- • ed the Vikings during lhe Greater Lansing Activities Conference regular season and then bested the Vikings again Saturday afternoon in the championship game of the GL.AC :----- in thc final. to the Pilgrims Lakewood returned to the field Tuesday to score a 1-0 win over rival Ionia. l he winner of Thursday’s district opener will take on either Comstock Park or Portland in the district semifinals Monday. Carpenter drills 2> OOOth koi Call 269-945-9554 tor Hastings Banner classified ads �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 15. 2020 — Page 19 COUNTY BOARD, continued on page 3 excuse thc accused.” “He never should . nW«cr Mnce he is notXu T,C'>‘C*' 'hc grtion nor is he a‘ neeadnepros-essineoon.bu.;.' c X ' Both nt.nnstre.nn an,| 5wia| h . hlowtng up With concerns that Mr. I e’Vis ,tm intsiworthy to be our sheriff. Conunenters .ire demanding that Mr. l eal lx- reheted ol hi's Madam chair, she said to Commissioner ^“in th°T Wh° I’rV'i‘k'd *’wr "* mg tn he absence ol Chains.,man Heather Wing. I propose the (ollossi,,.. actions- 1 Censure Mr. Ixnf for his actions and wonk swmg the harm they have done to the countv. 2. Request that Mr.. I c.,t resign from his posinon as sheriff as soon .is possible •' Assuming that Mr. Leaf reassigns, appoint the undersheriff ... as acting sheriff until a special election can be held to fill the sheriff’s position.” Tom Burgdorf of Woodland Township, an ex-posse member, said. “I think the media has taken things he’s said out of context. It would hs •* gnat injustice if he were removed from office.” Mike Merlow of Barry County told the commissioners that the media, which he believes to be “an appendage of the Denux-ralic Christina BusJ> o-=;lesai(lsh9is Vice chairwoman Vivian Conner presided during the county board meeting in the absence of Chairwoman Heather Wing. Nancy Hammond of Barry County said the sheriff’s comments were taken out of context. Association deplores Leaf statements Tom Burgdorf of Woodland Township said it would be “a great Injustice" if Leaf left office. Party is perpetuating a bunch of nonsense. They're kind of putting thc militia groups into one basket.” "The vast majority of militia members arc freedom-loving. America-loving constitution­ alists. They’re Patriots and the last line of defense if civil order breaks down.” As for Dar Leaf, he said, ”1 respect him very much. He’s a constitutionalist." The Michigan Sheriffs’ Association con­ demns the statement by Sheriff Leaf (Barry County) in the wake of the alleged plot by what appears to be organized domestic terror­ ists to kidnap Governor Whitmer, attack the Capitol building and take hostages, and target law enforcement. It is, frankly, disheartening that any law enforcement official with any time in service of his or her oath could respond that way. His comments were danger­ ous and, let me be clear, there is nothing about this alleged plot that could be construed as legal, moral, or American. Let me also be clear that MSA is grateful to the FBI, the Attorney General, thc State Police, and local police and sheriff’s offices for working together to prevent tragedy and protect the governor and her family, our duly elected leaders and staff. Michigan’s sheriffs stand with the people of Michigan against terrorism and remain committed to protecting the public safety of all Michigan citizens! Matthew M. Saxton, Sheriff (ret.) Executive Director/CEO Michigan Sheriffs’ Association Jeffrey A. Keessen, AIF® (269) 948-9969 525 W. Apple St. Hastings, MI 49058 www.watcrsedgerinancial.com Taking care of what's important to you so that you can focus on what matters most to you Securities offered thtnugh LPL FituncuL Member HNRA/SIPC Joe Kujla said the sheriff is protecting Second Amendment rights. Your Success Is Our Business Get professional results and unbeatable value from the local specialists in business services! —............................ ..........—--------- —---------------------- -------- ------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------- f Business Cards • Signs. Banners <&. Posters “ Printing & Copying * Laminating * Marketing Materials । * Brochures & Handbooks • xnd Much More1 __ • Let us customize your promotional materials here! Contact Tv Greenfield, Steve Skedgell or Jennie Yonker 269-945-9554 Mike Merlow of Barry County said media coverage is putting militia groups “into one basket." �Page 20 — Thursday October 15. 2020 — Tho Hasungs Banner Fast 400 free relay leg finishes DK/TK/HHS win i t ’W HODC £ M "?TY' «5> M M. 6 ConfeirenctpH-n»S?.n'Or DalaCe r°US,Ta swims 10 a runner-up ,inish in lhe 500-yard freestyle during her team's OK Rainbow r II win over visiting Unity Christian at the CERC in Hastings Thursday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kellogg'Thomapple Kellogg'Hastings sophomore Eve Bishop twists above the water during one of her six dives Thursday during her team's win over visiting Unity Christian in Hastings (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Sports Editor There is a reason the Delton Kellogg/ Thomapple Kcllogg/Hastings varsity girls’ swimming and diving team has junior Abbs Marcukaitis anchor the 400-yard freestyle relay team at lhe end of races. She’s fast. Marcukaitis made up about a 45 second deficit by lhe end of her first 50 yards Thursday during her team’s OK Rainbow Conference Tier II dual wilh league newcom­ er Unity Christian nt the Community ^Education and Recreation Center in Hastings. •The split on her first 50 had her at 25.62 sec­ onds. which was jusl a little faster than her iimc of 25.87 lhat won her the 50-yard free­ style race Thursday. „ Marcukaitis cruised through her final 50 to finish lhe race. She was joined by Anna ^Haywood. Holly Carpenter and Dalace Jousma for a winning time of 4 minutes 9.80 seconds. ’ That relay win finished off a 104-81 victory for the DK/TK/HHS girls, moving them to 3-0 so far in the conference this fall. • “I always like to put (Abby) at the end. because many times, maybe half the time, we’re going lo be behind. Maybe it’ll be a little or maybe a lot, but I know what it is is a challenge to her. She loves that challenge. I know that if it is humanly possible she’ll do it and she did it. “Il is kind of a nice thing. The fans really get into it too, but here on the deck I know what she is capable of doing, she knows what she is capable ot doing, and the other three kids in the relay know what she is capable of doing. It is almost like a wish that you know is going to come true. So far. it has. The time may come when it won’t, but she’ll be in it. No matter what, she’ll be in it.” Thc team of Abby, Sophie. Preslec Hall and Juliann Meeker opened the night by winning the 200-yard medley relay in 2:01.49. Abbv won the 100-yard butterfly too in 1:02.96. Sophie Marcukaitis won the 200-yard indi­ vidual medley in 2:26.42 and later took the 100-yard breaststroke in 1:14.48. Haywood won the 100-yard freestyle in 1:00.69. just missing a goal of finishing in less than a minute.. It was an outstanding night for the DK/TKZ HHS divers with Claire Green winning w ith a score of 185.30 points. Eve Bishop was sec­ ond with 162.60 points and the team also had Maelea Martin fourth at 142.30. Their success on the diving board Thursday allow ed to put Juliann Meeker in an extra race instead of on die board. He was very happy with her third-place time in thc 50-yard free­ style (27.75 seconds.) Haywood was the nmner-up to Abby Marcukaitis in that race in 2753. “There were other girls who did well too.” Schoesscl said. Il look some work to make sure the meet DK/TK/HHS junior Abby Marcukaitis smiles up from the water after anchoring her team’s 400-yard freestyle relay team to a win during her team’s conference victory over visiting Unity Christian Thursday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) happened Thursday night. The Royal Coach Building fire across Hastings caused wide­ spread power outages. Thc water level in the [xx>l dropped by over two feet Wednesday. The DK/TK/HHS girls couldn’t practice Wednesday and the pool was a bit colder than normal after having fresh water pumped in for a day. PAYMENTS TO HOME CAREGIVERS CAN CAUSE MEDICAID PENALTIES Why Caregiver Contracts Are a Must Scenario: Wishing to keep Mom at home as long as possible, family enters into a verbal agreement with a friendly neighbor to pay S800 per month to provide assistance to Mom with bathing, groceries, food prep, etc. Three years later, Mom needs nursing home care, is out of funds, and applies for Medicaid assistance. Result: Under current Medicaid rules, ALL funds paid for caregiving to the neighbor (or alternatively, family member) within the last five years before Mom’s application are considered a "divestment for Jess than fair market value” and will result in a penalty. Thc result: Mom will be prohibited from Medicaid benefits she might otherwise be entitled. How to Pay for Caregiving Services and Still Qualify for Medicaid Medicaid divestment penalties can be avoided with a “Caregiving Contract.” Therefore, for families paying for caregiving services for a loved one. it is essential that there be a proper contract in place before payment is made for those services. through our Medicaid planning services, our firm is available to assist you wilh lhe preparation of a qualified caregiving agreement and supporting documentation. If payments lo caregivers have already taken place prior to a written contract being signed, you should consult with the our firm to understand the impact that such payments will have on the person’s Medicaid eligibil­ ity and develop a plan lo help cover costs during the penally period. for a more detailed explanation of Caregiving Contracts and our Medicaid planning services, please contact our office and schedule an appointment. de-energized cables in the Straits of Mackinac Consumers tner»v recently removed long-retired cne t'fraiInicture from thc Straits of Mackinac as part of eomnntment l« Protecting Michigan’s environment. The Compaq pu||cd up clectnc cables which were 46 k j| ’ .iwt had been de-ener­ gized since their r . ’Lment in I"°- along wi,h conemte * funding cables associated w j,h RcnWving the cables ■"'Proves sate,. •" c,Lits and enhances U,c sla'e’s wZ"’he 'S,Xcing the odds of mcidcnts suet, .,, ys tugboat anchor strike in 20) t,s an allegcU «• salv«gedm>lI^ Hie R,,n°\^nV^ssSibleto Longstreet Elder Law & Estate Planning P.O. utt^^£c^^Pn’ro0,CSUS' 607 North Broadway Hastings, Michigan 49058 269-945-3495 ..A"er|e; . • ’illcged anchor strike on 0Ur £’ °f the -f ‘ ‘ investigate "’i ”e' "C '^a t'L Mackinac and the tfnqr 1 ^’ave the Stn“b .. D is ’^.U-e^inaMt^ elder law a ESTATE PLANNING P C. tonight it is Wayland for lhe Cancer Meet. I told the girls tonight we have to win all three of those to have a shot at the conference (championship). “We’ve got two more to go and those are very tough teams. Fortunately they arc both here. 1 guess thal might help a little bit. Consumers Energy removes retired, Robert J. Longstreet Tongstreet Coach Scheessel was very happy to wel­ come Unity Christian back into Tier II. a program that struggled lo be competitive for years in the OK Green Conference against lhe likes of Holland. Holland Christian and Zeeland. This meet, next week it is Ottawa Hills a week from tonight and then two weeks from pr,sc Project m1,’'1'1- vi" P„d environmental ■*rviCvs, .aJJ’anageinent and en'‘ In at,oct. allegedly owned by American Transmission Company and the Enbridge Energy Line 5 pipeline. No environmental damage occurred related to the Consumers Energy cables because they did not contain materials or fluids that could have leaked. The cables, installed in 1956, once supplied electricity to the Upper Peninsula. Consumers Energy staff w orked with stake­ holders, including lhe Michigan Department of Environment. Great Lakes and Energy and thc United Stales Army Corps of Engineers, for permitting to remove lhe exposed, retired electric cables from the bottomlands in the Straits of Mackinac. The removal project took roughly five months and was completed with zero safety incidents. Wayland advances past Saxon tennis in district tournament The Hastings varsity boys’ tennis team was bested by Wayland in its Division 3 District opener last Thursday at Grand Rapids Christian’s Gainey Athletic Complex. The Wildcats bested the Saxons 8-0 and then fell to their OK Gold Conference breth­ ren from Grand Rapids Christian 8-0 in the district semifinals. The host Eagles took a 7-1 win over Hamilton in lhe district champion­ ship match, earning a spot in this weekend’s Division 3 Lower Peninsula Boys’ Tennis Finals in Holland. This was as new format tor the state tournu­ ment. due to COVID-19 restrictions limiting the number of teams allowed at a single site at a time. The 16 state qualifying teams will begin playing Round of 16 and Quarterfinal matches Thursday at four different sites in the Holland area and Semifinal and Final rounds Oct. 16 at Holland Christian. Ann Arbor Green Hills is the top seeded team in the Division 3 bracket. The Saxons’ Interstate-# Athletic Conference rivals from Parma Western are seeded 15th and will face second seeded Cranbrook Kingswcxxl in the opening round. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-10-22.pdf b4391a7cb0c46c22bb1cfb2c685e41cb PDF Text Text due ■ Time to up the tech giants Day v Panthers put up PRs at SAC Championship | See E(1it<>riil1 °H Page 4 See Story on Page 17 1070490102590500697749058113421 Richard Hemerkng aoiNTatfeeOr Hastings Ml 490-S‘A - ^0/?021 9 47 co AM VOLUME 167, No. 42 —feAfegODg; Jjtft pdjp-g 2^50 ~ ’ Thursday OctoheVja'aozo ' ' “ PRICE $1,06: ’ Local man charged with Royal Coach arson • Additional charges possible, prpsecistpi says Patrols heightened this week Law entoiccrnenl officers throughout Michigan this week have ramped up patrol* of motorists illegally passing I school bu^cs. Operation Safe Stop is pan of national School Bus Safetv Week, Oct. 19-23. In 2019. nearly 2.100 citations were issued to drivers for tailing to stop for a school bus, the most in the previous 10 I years. ’W le;im it as kindergartners; red means stop. HA a< simple as that,’' Michael I . Prince, director of lhe Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning, said. "Even with remote learn­ ing happening throughout the state, buses are ail! on the road. When you see the Dashing lights, stop.*’ Michigan bus drivers conducted a oneday survey in May 2019. In just that one day. lhe i,373 partk ip time bus drivers jvpcxrierf 508 incident of a muter tM pass­ ing a school bits illegally. “Every lime a driver ignores the flash­ ing lights or slop arm of a bus. they are putting a student's life in danger." Kellie Dean, president and CEO of Dean Transportation, said. Drivers should prepare to stop when they see lhe overhead Dashing yellow lights of a bus. and stop at least 20 feet away from a bus when the overhead lights flash red. Drivers who pass stopped school buses may be charged with civil infractions carrying a fine of $100-$500. Scouts collecting scrap metal Taylor Owens Staff Writer Keigan Sochor, 21, of Hastings, faces a charge of third-degree arson in connection with the fire that destroyed the historic Royal Coach building early Oct. 7. Sochor also was charged Thursday with three other felonies: preparation to bum prop­ erty. which carries up to 10 years in prison; and two counts of entry without breaking with intent to commit a crime, which carry up to five years in prison, the Barry County prose­ cutor said. “We commend Officer Alan Klein and the Hastings City Police Department for their commitment to this ongoing criminal investi­ gation,” Julie Nakfoor Pratt said in a pie. release. “We also commend lhe responding fire departments for their valiant efforts to save the Royal Coach building and the adja­ cent properties and for keeping our communi­ ty safe.” Police said the case was not connected to The ruins of the Royal Coach building were still smoking Wednesday morning. Koigan Sochor has been charged with third-degree arson. homelessness and it did not appear that the building had been targeted for arson before the crime occurred. A conviction on lhe arson charge carries up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to three times the value of the properly, according to law enforcement officials. Pratt said she is anticipating more charges to be filed, but declined to elaborate on the case against Sochor. "We would like to thank the public for the See ARSON, page 12 Rise in cases has school offfctefe concerned about irB@xt steps. Superintendents appeal to families: Dorft let down now Luke Froncheck and Taylor Owens Staff Writers COVID-19 claimed a sixth victim in Barry County, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Wednesday. It was a fatality that the Barry-Eaton District Health Department could not confirm al press lime, but health officials said they are alarmed by the numbers they’re seeing in lhe county and called an emergency health board meeting last Thursday to consider action steps. Most of the Lakewood Middle School sixth grade is in quarantine after coming in contact with a staff member who tested positive for COVID-19. Superintendent Steve Skalka said lhe 136 students are now attending class online. "Students have received instruction on how to use Google Classroom in case this had ever happened.” be.said. Skalka w: • among dyut 45 superinten­ dents across five counties, including Thomapplc Kellogg intern) Superintendent Dan Takcns, who ’igned a'Jclter expressing concent about the recent riseWCOVID cases across West Michigan and appealing to par­ ents and families to continue IV take measures to prevent lhe spread of the vi^is. "To mitigate the spread ofiCOVID-19 in our communities and to keep schools open, we ask that all social and community gather­ ings continue to adhere to sdfc mitigation protocols,” the letter said. ’We’re worked too hard over the last several months to reverse course now.” The superintendents said, if cases continue to trend upward, additional measures may have to be taken to prevent further spread of the virus. “Restrictions may include cancellation, or other mitigation efforts, of extracurricular activities like athletics, band, choir and drama.” their Idler said. Spectrum Health Pennock President Angela Ditmar said the hospital in Hastings is experi­ encing a surge, although it is not as great as See CASES, page 2 Need a COVID-19 test? Spectrum Health Pennock has expanded its testing - and has gone from performing an aver­ age of 40 tests per day to 70 daily. ■ Information on how to gel tested al Spectrum Pennock is available at mychart.spectrum-' health.org. .A limited number of tests also is available at Family Fare in Hastings from noon io 3 p.m. Mondays and 8 to 11 a.m. Wednesdays. Pre-registration is required at doineedacovidl9test4 coin. The testing is done in the drive-thru, where people will collect the supplies,.swab themselves and return them. Results arc typically available within three to five business days. 12 tests are available on both days, and Pharmacy Manager Kent Dickerson said that may be increased if there is more demand. A list of lest sites that can be searched bv location is available at michigan.gov/coronavirus. Local scouting groups are trying to organize several fundraisers to help cover new increases in each scout’s annual dues Hasting* Cub Scouts, chartered by the Law rence J. Bauer American Ix*gion Post, will have a scrap metals drive Friday and Saturday. Oct. 23 and 24. A dumpster from Padnos will be in the Legion Post parking lot. 2160 S. M-37 Highway. Hastings, those days for items to be di opped off. Scouts also have a trailer parked at the Post to collect returnable cans and bottles for about lhe next two weeks. Rep. Calley in town Oct. 26 Slate Rep. Julie Calley will welcome residents to office hours in two communi­ ties Monday. October 26. From 10 to 11 a in., she will be at the Puce Memorial Building, 839 Fourth Ave. m Lake Odessa. From 12:30 to 2 p.m., she will be in Hasimri at the Tydcn Center. 121 S. Church St. A legislative update will be provided at 12:30 p.m.. with an opportunity for indi­ vidual meetings beginning at 1:30 p.m. "Listening to feedback is essential in older to represent our common-sense, hardworking communities.” Rep. Calley said. "J appreciate lhe opportunity to con­ nect with the people I serve. ’ No appointment »> necessary. Out of consideration for other attendees, indiv id­ ea! meetings will be kept to 10 minutes each , . . Anvone who would like additional time whois unable to alien.) the -died uled r>fii«.c haul-, may email Juliet ■ ality fiouw .mi.gov or caller her, 517 37’4*42 ■ DKHS crowns its 2020 homecoming royalty Saxons start homecoming festivities by crowning royalty Seniors Bradley Bunch and Lizzy Fichtner are crowned 2020 q6| school homecoming king and queen during a ceremony at halttime of p lo99 H|9 .. y team's 28-6 win over visiting NorlhPointe Christian Friday evening c <■ nther varsity > coverings during the ceremony before briefly removing them tor f r members woe smiles on lhe 50-yard-line. (Photo by Brett Bremer) photos Io s o\ Seniors Corbin Ulrich and Hannah Slaughter are crowned lhe 2020 Hastings High School homecoming king ana queen at a ceremony during the Hastings varsity tootbail team’s 30-29 victory over visiting Coldwater inside Baum Stadium at Johnson Field Friday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) �Halloween safety amid rising COVID 19 cases Page 2 — Thursday. Octohwr 22, 2020 — The lhe Hastings Banner I I I Sophie Bates Staff Writer - Die City of Hastings will not elo<e off Green Street to vehicle (niflic this Halloween To as to not encourage large groups of triektreaters Oct. 31, City Manager Jerry Czarnecki said. ■ Czarnecki said city officials made this decision to comply with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services advisory that limits lhe size of outdoor gatherings. “Parents will make lhe decision if their 'ghouls and goblins will be out following the Tradition of collecting candy and treats. Homeowners will make the decision to turn oh their porch light and offer candy and treats th the ghouls and goblins,” a statement on lhe Oky’s website reads. “Be safe on that evening '.»nd thank you to all residents for helping to keep each other sale ” The number of ('OVID-19 cases m Barry County Ims been using reaching the highest infection numbers in lhe county to date — w iih 103 active case*. according to the Barry Eaton District Health Department. Currently. Barry County is seeing 30 io40 new cases per day as opposed to JO new- cases per week in August. Anne Barna BF.DHD planning, promotion and evaluation director, said. Sarah Suma. community health promotion .specialist at the health department said this increase in cases raises concerns about the spread of COVID-19 when people arc celebrating I lai low ecn. “COVID-19 is already transmitting in the community so. chances are, some COVID-19 will be spread during Halloween.” Suma said. ‘Some of the main things we really want people to focus on is not handing out candy if you are sick, and wearing a mask when you ring the ,1^ Surna Sam guidelines 1^ rAfdoor” . sweff iith departments *<-' ”C4,‘nd COVlD-19 are consistent ,oween‘Tjendations by the Michigan be ,R' rec°‘ an(J jjllrnnn Services, Anient of These 1C trick-or-treat reeon»nend .Jfrol„ lht. US.Food~ “C^ion.SafellSA X Control and Prevention forI?‘b discarding any homemade lr ndu non-comnicrcially wrapped candi als 0 parents inspect candy befOrc *;vha' Xldren to eat and inspecting ,nF wrilppcd treats for TheO,uT^nhO,?or& “ similarly “Jdalions on how parents and s:,fc w hile trickor-treattng. Thew“^endations included Barry-Eaton District Health Department update on COVlD-19 Colette Scrimger i. Health Officer ■ In the past few weeks, wc have seen an alarming increase in COVID-11) positive cases in Barry County. In fact, we have had more cases in die past two weeks than in the first four months of the pandemic. There arc multiple reasons, wc think, for the increased spread right now: ■ First: Compared to this summer, people who are positive arc reporting more close contacts - less than two on average in July, compared with 5.7 contacts on average in September. The more people you come into contact with on a regular basis, the greater chance of getting or spreading COVID-19. Second: We think there is more virus cir­ culating in Barry County right now. This means there is a greater chance that people will run into someone with the virus as they go about their daily life. The most recent pos­ itivity rate (number of positive results divided by the total number of tests) has risen over 5 percent, the highest rate ilnce April. ( Third: We are seeing lhe most spread with­ in working-age adults (find retired people. While there have been'several cases and exposures at schools, school-related spread does not appear to be driving the increase in cases at this time. About 12 percent of cases in the past few weeks report traveling, about If) percent report attending an event, such as a wedding, funeral, or'party. Most people report they arc going libout their normal everyday activities. What does our community do to address this? • One solution is to try to implement as many layers of protection around you and your family ? faring masks to prevent the spread of COVff).|9 others - before you know-you are evcnsick> • Increasing ventilation in buildings, social distancing, staying outside when socializing, and doing as much work or socializing at home as possible. *A lhat p^pie y°u interact wilh may have COV1D.I9, and take appropriate pre­ cautions. • Patronize businesses where workers and patrons are required to wear masks and are continuing other common-sense precautions to keep you safe. Only by redoubling our efforts to keep pro­ tecting each other will we see reductions in new cases. COVff).19 is a frustrating, insidi­ ous disease. We need e\'eryonc«s help to stop the spread. CASES, continued from page 1 the numbers being seen at Spectrum’s Grand Rapids locations. 1 As of Wednesday morning. Pennock had four COVID-19 patients in the hospital, with pne in the intensive care unit. Last week, lhe hospital had a record high of fixe COVID-19 ■patients, she said. " “Obviously, people are gelling fatigued and ^'e’re just seeing an increase in people not wanting to wear masks.” Ditmar said. “It just seems like there’s been an overall decline in the community of proactively stopping the spread.” “ Ditmar said the medical Community under­ stands die fatigue many people must be feel­ ing with COVID-19 precautions, but that people need to continue with measures such hs mask wearing, social distancing and saniXizing. , “We are all in this together and together we’re stronger,” she said. The hospital also has expanded its testing, hnd has gone from an average of 40 tests per 'day to 70 tests per day. ,. Last Thursday. Health Officer Colette Scrimger confirmed that COVID-19 had claimed a fifth victim in Barry County. ~ The 82-year-old female was admitted to Spectrum Health Pennock Hospital prior to her death. BEDHD officials said. ‘‘Scrimger said Barry County, in particular, is experiencing a surge in cases that alarms her. “Wc have had more cases in the past two weeks than in the first four months of the pandemic,” she said. County Commissioner Ben Geiger, who serves on the health board, said the startling fact for him was that the number of COVID19 cases being confirmed in Barry County now exceeds Eaton County. “Thai's not a statistic we see a lot on any issue.” Scrimger asked for the board's permission to add three new full-time temporary posi­ tions called disease investigators to work specifically on COVID-19 at a cost of about $120,000. . Her request received'’unanimous support from the board. During the special meeting, the health board learned lhat Barry and Eaton counties, together, arc seeing a higher rate of COVID19 than the state of Michigan. lhe other troubling characteristic about these exposures is that only 5 percent in Barry County are associated with a known cluster or outbreak, Anne Barna. BEDHD planning, promotion and evaluation dirccior, said. “The diffusion of the virus across the district is pretty well spread.” About 40 percent of these COVlD-19 cases have had contact wilh someone in the com­ munity. Bama (old the health board. In about a third of the cases, the source of the infection is not known, she said. The number of cases in Hastings and Middleville “arc higher than we would expect, based on lhe number of people who live there.” Barna said. These numbers, “which are of significant concern to us,” are driving lhe increase in positive cases in Barry County. She pointed to the sheer volume of new cases across the district: In .August, they were seeing 30 cases a week, compared to now. when they’re seeing anywhere between 30 and 40 cases a day. “It’s hard ... to get a grasp on the trends when lhe volume of cases is so great,” Bama said. Health board member Jon Smelker. who is a Barry County commissioner who was in quarantine last week because he had come in contact with someone who tested positive for COVlD-19, asked if there was any correlation between the increase in cases and the start of school. Health officials said there has been little actual transmission of the virus between stu­ dents in schools. Rather, it is more likely for the adults to be exposed. Smelker pointed to the timeline. “It seems funny that it picks up when school started.” But health department officials said that this has to do with adults getting back to their routines, back to work, weddings, funerals, going up north. . A key incidence kt. they pointed out. is among an adult poiluion between the ages of 30 and 40. / “The other dat? points e are starting to see an increase in/hospitalization,“ Scrimger added. “That’s toother piece that’s alarming to us.” This means the virus is affecting a more vulnerable population and people arc getting sicker, she said-The length of hospital stays in these cases is about a week but the patients aren’t going straight home. “Our intent coming into this meeting, was that we were going to ask to use fund balance for these [thee new] positions at approxi­ mately $120000,” Scrimger told the board. However, she said she learned prior to Thursday’s meeting that additional funds from the stile can be used to cover the initial phase for when these new roles begin. “So, hopefully, we can fund a good portion of these positions,” without having to take as much out of the fund balance. The additional staff will be welcome news to department staff, which is overwhelmed with the number of cases coming in, Scrimger said. “In the last two weeks, we have had almost 70 hours of overtime logged by staff.... What we’ve seen in the past, we might get a week where we had high numbers, but it would drop off and stabilize. Now the cases are increasing every week. We still might see lit­ tle dips, but I expect we’ll going to stay al this higher number for quite some lime. maijntain this." I ne role of disease investigatorrequire some background in nursing, social work or epidemiologyt she said since these staff mem­ bers will do more than contact tracing, they CaSe ‘^estieation as well. They have to be able to read a medical chart, do a certain level of assessment. Il’s more complex. Ifs def.njtely different that contact tracing? aeIinnc,/ istf ScrimlraCing expand out to general­ ists, benmger said rh.?\tmCuClin8 deluded with the reminder IlwX aW* wHl n>«l again th.s “please 11 face in y°ur canxrJ' f the board I?' .lkit you have the thanks of sent." °‘the people «« hr with jbtec fur.ds by the 'wf- County Democratic ComnuBee P0 53 j riftings Ml ELECT JOE BIDEN NOVEMBER 3rd Cal'26M45-9554 OrH«stinfls avoiding direct contact with others, trie treating outdoors, wearing a cloth mas simply a Halloween mask), and washing sanitizing hands, . For homeowners who wish to distnbu c candy, the CDC recommends washing hands before handling treats and individually bagging treats for children instead of using a communal bowl. Those looking for more information on how to stay safe this Halloween may visit the MDHHS and CDC websites ns well as halloween2020.org. a Harvard website that makes recommendations for Halloween safety based on the COVID-19 cases in a community, Surna said. Some local oQuinizations, such as Grace Church in Nashville, are hosting alternative Halloween festivities. Grace Church will be hosting a drive-through tnmk-or-trcat from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Halloween. Children can play stKially distanced activities from their vehicles, such ns voting on the best pumpkin carving or verbal tic-tac-toe with volunteers. Delton Kellogg reports no COVID-19 cases was the best option in anticipation of future Luke Froncheck Staff Writer So far. Delton Kellogg Schools rctum-toleam plan is working. Superintendent Kyle Corlctt reported during the board of education meeting Monday that, as of earlier that day, no students or staff had tested positive for CO VID-19. Five high school students and one middle school student are currently in quarantine due to close contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19, Corlctt said. The superintendent also spoke about the district’s online learning progress. State law says districts must have weekly two-way communication with at least 75 percent of students participating in online learning. So far, Corlett said Delton has not dipped below 91 percent. Board members also discussed yearly bullying data. Corlctt said the elementary school had reported five instances of bullying, the middle school had nine, and the high school had zero. Corlett said the high school showed zero because no instances of a bully repeatedly targeting a single student were reported. Board member Craig Jenkins said that, because each building has different definitions for bullying, the report lacks value. Corlett said he would work to provide board members with more data about bullying. hi other business, the board: • Tabled a policy update on lhe superintendent’s emergency power. Board members agreed (hat postponing the policy state legislation.the hiring of the following • Approved winter coaches: varsity competitive cheer, Zoe Reynolds; assistant competitive cheer and head junior varsity, Samantha Munsell; middle school competitive cheer, Jessica Staton; varsity wrestling, Brett Bissett; assistant wrestling, Chad Mast; assistant wrestling. Bill Ferris; middle school wrestling, Jason Thomas: assistant middle school wrestling. Dan Phillips; varsity girls basketball, Mike Mohn; junior varsity girls basketball, Jesse Lyons, eighth-grade girls and boys basketball, Mark Nabozny, seventh­ grade girls and boys basketball. Josh Lyons; and varsity boys basketball, Jim Hogoboom. • Heard an audit report from a representative from Gabridge and Company of Grand Rapids. The school is in a healthy financial state, according to the report. • Accepted the retirements of middle school secretary Denicc Cook and superintendent secretary Carol Hersha. • Appointed Tammie Grabowski as the high school home-based teacher for students with individual education plans. • Heard a report from Corlett about the recent Delton Kellogg Education Foundation breakfast at the Moose Lodge in Delton. Corlett said DKEF raised $1,300 during the breakfast. • Approved a school policy on threatening behavior toward staff members, emergency removal or expulsion of students, and due process rights for students. Some state Republicans propose local opt-out for lockdown orders Bridge Magazine Seeking to influence Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s response to the COVID19 pandemic. House Republicans on Tuesday outlined a plan to allow counties to opt out of statewide mask mandates, business rules, crowd size limitations and other public safety orders if local virus spread is low. Local health officials could relax regula­ tions only if their county was below certain thresholds, including a daily average case count of less than 55 confirmed cases per 1 million residents over a 14-day period. Only 13 counties with a combined 300,000 residents currently meet lhat mark, about 3 percent of the stale’s population - with four of these not currently meeting a separate require­ ment for testing capacity. Barry- County is not among the 13 that cur­ rently meet these proposed opt-out require­ ments. State Rep. Ben Frederick, R-Owosso, who oversaw creation of the plan through a GOP workgroup, acknowledged most of Michigan’s 83 counties would not be able to opt out of state rules currently but told reporters that “speaks to the fact we really need to establish these goals and move forward on these goals in a transparent way.” To qualify for the opt-out, local communi­ ties would also need to keep COVID-19 test­ ing positive rates below 5 percent over 14 days and prove they have adequate hospital capacity, personal protective equipment and testing capacity, with the ability to test 15 people per 10,000 residents per day and pro­ vide results in three days or less. Frederick said he does not anticipate any county health officials would move to end all COVID-19 regulations, which he suggested would be “a very reckless decision.” and one they’d have to answer for before their local board of health. The goal, he said, is “removing politics from the process as much as possible” and moving from “an environment of one-sizefits-all restrictions to one better reflecting local conditions, which empowers communi­ ties." The plan is the first put forward by House Republicans since the slate confirmed its first coronavirus cases in March. Senate Republicans outlined a plan in mid­ April that, among other things, would have prevented large sports venues from reopening until there was a vaccine or no community spread. Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey, R-Clarklake. is now advocating for a “ele­ ment of herd immunity,” an approach panned by some public health experts that would continue safeguards for vulnerable popula­ tions but allow younger residents to contract the virus and develop antibodies. Whitmer’s office did not have immediate comment on the House GOP plan, with a spokesperson saying only that “wc will review” the proposal. Ils release comes amid surging COVLD-19 case counts and an ongoing power struggle between the executive and legislative branch­ es that has been marked by a GOP win in court, an advancing petition drive and accusa­ tions of “dictatorial” moves by the Democratic governor, who contends her aggressive restricts helped save lives. “We are going to engage with the gover­ nor’s office,” Frederick told reporters. “At the end of the day though, we are a governing majority. It is our role to pul in legislation, and we want to start that process.” The Michigan Supreme Court’s conserva­ tive majority this month invalidated a law Whitmer had used to issue CO VID-19 orders and encouraged her to work with the Legislature. But lhe administration responded by con­ tinuing most of the same protective measures — including a statewide mask mandate, crowd size limitations and business regula­ tions — through the public health code and Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Those powers only extend so far, however, and Whitmer has had to ask the Legislature for help in some instances. Lawmakers last week agreed to extend defunct Whitmer orders allowing for expand­ ed access to unemployment benefits and for remote meetings by local governments. In exchange, the Democratic governor is expected to sign a GOP bill providing new legal safeguards for businesses that substan­ tially comply with COVID-19 regulations. House metrics The new House plan adopts some metrics the Whti administration has established to allow for regional variations in public health regulations. Instead of eight regions, it allows for variations in up to 83 counties, a delinea­ tion Frederick said several other slates have already adopted. Among the opt-out provisions, counties must have a test positivity rate of 5 percent or less over 14 days. Thai’s consistent with U.S. Centers for Disease Control guidelines but less stringent than the 3-pcrcent rale state health officials and experts at lhe Harvard Global Health Institute have recommended for the relaxation of regulations. Statewide, nearly 6 percent of all coronavi­ rus tests reported Monday came back posi­ tive, triggering another 2,909 confirmed cases of COVID-19. To date, the stale has reported 147,806 confirmed cases and 7J031 deaths. Thirteen northern counties now average less than 55 cases per 1 million residents: Missaukee, Charlevoix, Crawford, Leelanau. Arenac, Presque Isle, Emmet, Sanilac, Wexford, Montmorency, Alcona. Chippewa See PROPOSE, page 17 �■ ja Tho Has tinge Banner Thursday,October October 22. 2020— Pag«3 3 Tho Hastings Banner ——Thursday, 22. 2020 APPellate court affirms 8 p.n1, “*Hot deadline on Election Day gram called the Qualified Voter File, or QVF, which keeps a record of when an application of absentee ballot is received by the clerk when the absentee voter ballot is mailed to the voter and when the voted ballot is returned to lhe local clerk as well as voter history and registrations. “Upon receipt of the application, the local clerk confirms the voter registration and com­ pares lhe signed application signature to the electronic signature that is on file in the QVF program - prior to the issuing an AV ballot. Likewise, when the ballot is returned, the clerk will go into QVF compare the signatures again and note the date of the return. “This is all printed off and presented to me and the canvassers after the election." Because of the passage of the no-reason absentee voting law two years ago. Palmer said she has received a tremendous number of AV ballot applications. lutst week, Barry County had 49/457 regis­ tered voters -- compared to 27,013 registered voters in the 2016 general election. “So wc have almost doubled our registra­ tion numbers over the past four years," she said. The reason for that. Palmer noted, was a law passed in 2018 that made it easier for residents to register, vote absentee and cast their ballots. As a result, anyone who resides in Michigan for al least 30 days before the election, is 18 and a citizen of the U.S., who is not serving a sentence in jail or prison, can register to vote - and they can register to vote on Election Day. she said. Is Barry County going to have a bigger turn­ out than it did in the last presidential election? “Absolutely," Palmer said, adding that what she doesn’t know is if there will be as many walk-in voters. “But I already know we will have more AV ballots." . AV ballots may have increased tremendous­ ly, but they are not pew. she pointed out. “The volume of absentee ballots is what has become ^electi^,r^say Ramvr. Editor said she rales before C SO,ne Ganges in voting right. nvral election - and she was On Friday (v Appeals rev 7/ Michigan Court of of Cl. a decision by the state Court ballois L\uWh’>h had n,kd ** ^ent voter if lhe\ .rna,^d by Nov. 2 must lx* counted jyay ’ ,rnxc within 14 days after Election Claims also had ruled that, ..P01a°d Election Diy, voters cstgnaie anyone of their choosing to it Uni .‘dy'enl voter ballot envelope for that it did not need to be one of the speCl IS ,nd’v’duals dictated by state election law'. * he appellate court overturned that ruling, loo. So, according to the Michigan Bureau of Elections, here’s what voters need to know right now: First, ballots must be received by 8 p.m. on Election Day. Second, the list of individuals who can assist in returning a ballot arc designated under Election Law. They are: the voter; a member of the voter’s immediate family who has been asked to return the ballot; a person residing in lhe voter’s household who has been asked io return the ballot; a person whose job normally includes the handling of mail (but only during lhe course of his or her employ­ ment): or an authorized election official. Palmer wants Barry County voters io know of these developments, But 1 But here here’’ss aa caveat: caveat: There may still be more court proceedings in lhe case that triggered these rulings, so voters need to pay attention - and call their local clerk’s office if they’re confused or have questions. At this point, some election officials are encouraging those who vote absentee to hand-deliver their ballots to their polling plac­ es. And, if someone casts an absentee ballot before the Nov. 3 general election, they better not die or be serving time in jail on Election Day. If they are. their vote won’t count. Palmer said an absentee ballot from a voter who dies or is serving a jail or prison sentence on Nov. 3 must be rejected as illegal and recorded as rejected in lhe clerk’s Qualified Voter File program. Clerks cooperatively track, share and record death records and criminal sentences to keep lhat QVF up to date, she said. "We’re con­ stantly updating those records." Hastings’ water system upgrades ahead of schedule Rebecca Pierce Editor A $222500 expenditure for variable frequency drives and a $35,856 contact for a cross-connection control program will move the City of Hastings decisively ahead of schedule in waler system upgrades. Hastings City Manager Jerry' Czarnecki, in a phone interview with Tuesday, called lhe council action during its virtual meeting via Zoom Monday night. “a great accomplishment." Thc placement of the variable frequency drives on well pumps and pumps at the city’s water treatment plant will extend the life of the pumps and save on the energy needed to run them, Czarnecki said. Plus, a 36-month contract will place the responsibility for performance of cross­ connection control inspections, follow-ups. and reporting to the stale in the hands of thc independent contractor HydroCorp for the time being, he said. — These services “are significant for us because Tlyldrocorp is going to help us to be more efficient,’’ lhe city manager said. “And lhe VFDs arc just going to help us with energy saving and wear and tear on our pumps, moving forward.” The way Czarnecki views it. these measures are smart investments, like regular oil changes for a car. “Wilh oil changes - you don’t have to do those things - but, if you don’t, you’re going to have a big expense down the road." Originally, the cost to install variable frequency drives on the pumps had been extended into fiscal year 2023. Since the city has three well pumps and five pumps at the water treatment plant, lhe current budget would have allowed installation of the drives on two pumps at the plant; or on three well pumps and only one pump at the plant - but not on all eight pumps. However. Consumers Energy is providing incentives for thc city to install these drives on the pumps, Czarnecki told the council. These drives are commonly used on pumps and. by controlling the speeds required, they reduce energy costs and extend the life of lhe equipment. Because these Consumer Energy incentives - $4,000 per well pump and $5,000 per pump at thc water treatment plant - are not guaranteed in the future, city staff recommended taking advantage of the opportunity now. with the added bonus of seeing energy savings immediately. When Utility Superintendent Verne Robins sought bids on the installation of VFDs on all eight pumps, lhe projected cost for the work came in at $222500 from Peerless Midwest, Inc. and $236500 from Integrated Controls, Inc. Both companies have done quality work for the city. Czarnecki said. Then city staff came up with a plan to cover that cost, suggesting using lhe $941)00 that had been budgeted as an expense for VFD installation in the 2020-21 fiscal year; tanning $66,000 remaining from other projects lhal had dome in under budget (repatr of backwash tank, replacing well roofs, and ranair of ground storage tank), and drawing 562/>00 from the net position of the city s W^On^Sil‘"«alla'ion of WDs for the .. \/had been planned m the city s ^0 tafi provement pL for the 2022-23 fiscal year f installation of the drives So. idler the cany )n wou]d on the pumps, he >aij. rebound at tl'J of (he Consumers w. the city will begin to SeS^ngsimmed imely. Czarnecki pointed out. , of the drives will Plr\%fe oMh" pomps, he told the extend the J”c council ’ < the incremental improvement So.insteadol m d jnsla)jaiion of the of pumps, thd noun eig()t pu|,ip5 for variable frequency dnv the $222,500 proposed by Peerless Midwest, Inc. Meanwhile, a 36-month agreement at an annual cost of $11.952 with HydroCorp will establish a program “to ensure that there is no possibility of contamination of our municipal water system by lhe commercial industrial facility," Czarnecki said. lhe state Department of Environment. Great Lakes and Energy requires that utility owners have programs in place to protect water systems from contamination from end users of the systems. The focus of thc agreement with HydroCorp will be on the commercial and industrial end users. Traditionally, this has been thc focus of the city’s cross-connection control program. Czamecki said. The city’s plan is to work with HydroCorp for thc next 36 months to improve Hastings' program and make sure the commercial and industrial cross-connection inspections are up toMate and accurate. At the end of the agreement. Hastings would have the option to lake over lhe program and manage it with city staff, he added. HydroCorp will be reporting its progress to Robins on a regular basis. Czarnecki said, and all data that is collected will be the property of the city. EGLE also requires cross-connection inspections for residential end users, and the city staff is working to bring a plan to the council that will address these end users, Czamecki noted. Although the council voted to approve the deal with HydroCorp, councilwoman Brenda McNabb-Stange cast lhe lone “no" vote because of concents she had expressed with specific contract wording. In other action, the council: • Recommended Marilyn Smith, of Smith Housing Consulting, as grant administrator on behalf of the city for the Michigan Economic Development Corp, rental rehabilitation project at 205 S. Jefferson St. formerly Jefferson Street Gallery. • In response to a request from Seasonal Grille LLC owner Justin Straube, extended until Nov. I the resolution approved earlier that allows outdoor dining downtown. • Agreed, with Mayor DavcTossava as the lone dissenter, to delay action on the downtown parking time limit extension from two to three hours. • Chose Czamecki as thc environmental review officer and city Clerk/Treasurer Jane Saurman as the certifying officer for a community development block grant from the MEDC. The grant is for a rental rehabilitation project at 205 S. Jefferson St. to convert the property into three one-bedroom apartments The project, by Terri and Phillip O’Connell is under the name Gallery Suites. • Heard brief remarks from the city’s new director of public services, Travis Tate, whose first day on lhe job was Oct. 5. • Received an update from Czamecki about the wastewater treatment plant upgrade He told council members they “will begin to see what looks like walls and buildings as lhe project continues to move forward. The curb and trail are in the process of being replaced now lhat the connections have been made to the new headworks lank. “It is a very intricate limeline, and I want to commend the entire staff for their flexibility to make sure everything stays on schedule " • Was reminded that compost site and fall leaf and yard debris pick-up hours continue from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays. 'lhe DPS crew began leaf and yard debris pickup Oct. 19. • Accepted with regret lhe resignation of Don Tubbs from the board of review and the downtown development authority, effective immediately. • Concluded the meeting with praise for firefighters, law enforcement and first responders al the scene of the Oct. 7 fire that destroyed the Royal Coach building in Hastings. Palmer from fi.Process and answered q‘,eS ^(ing MoncU Kotarians during, a Z<x’[n,|< been Cf >• Palmer, she's nevVr^ since January 2015- ***■ fl election 141 much tur­ moil leading l,P all the u A big reason she ,said ^’Hainty right now is COVI - ^St.s Inany Thc psuiden ‘ (0 jCal rang­ ing from how *’ icnt electjJ^,al distanc­ ing, fair ano fabsent ball. ’’intending with the ninoun 1 . voter4 l° he count­ ed as well os and BoaM*’ ^mcr said. The county Cl £ c;l|lvas^ of Canvassns are required to s inPa< 1 ■’ m- fu and City and W* r saf J*W taken extra . hiiit Vote ^n. precautions m J . > by utilizing Plexiglas shklds.ft« hand SaniliMr well as wiping d‘ is;. s^lhs between voters on a rcgula^ thc Rotarians. ••If you was done completely > bai|ol> d h CO VID shutdown our Secretary of State to get mv . ^ht in the mail­ ing of absentee votrag■ ppl^. confused with a • , Palmer said. The same practi« U *nd,„g 0U[ abscnlc(; voting applicant*ns ■ Pl’llcd tn the August primary election and san^ js j*. for this upcoming "I1*1 gcncral election, which has caused a lot ot concCnK confusion redundancies and phone calls, noled But Michigan has a series of checks and balances in place to a oid Vo(er fraU(i. said. “In the case of a voter receiving duplicate absentee ballot applies tons, the voter should obviously only returnone app|;Calion U) avoid voter fraud. Thc local clerk works with a pro­ the challenge.” To handle this volume of AV ballots, a new system is allowing the creation of AV counting boards. Eleven of 24 precincts in the county have established an AV counting board: lhe city of Hastings. Barry Township, Hastings Charter Township, Hope. Irving. Johnstown, Orangeville. Prairieville, Rutland, Thomapple and Yankee Springs townships have an AV counting board. ,>• These boards have a separate set of election inspector workers who arc sequestered in.a private area on Election Day and solely verify, open and tabulate all lhe AV ballots. “These inspectors are not allowed to leave the polls until the polls are closed. Nor axe they allowed to work or replace another elec­ tion inspector who is working with lhe walk-in voters for lhe reason that they know the result^ of lhe AV ballot and cannot interact wilh the public until the polls have closed or the l^t voter has voted," Palmer said. “So, again, a check-and-balance process is also conducted through the AV counting board to ensure that-c voter has not submitted duplicate ballots." 5 Part of Palmer’s job as clerk is teaching election inspectors how to work al the polling places. “I’m required to train election inspector poll workers in even calendar years, which is also election years," she told Rotarians. “I just completed training and certifying approxi­ mately 300 poll workers who will be working lhe polls for this election as well as elections held in 2021. “Once certified, these workers are qualified to work anywhere in the state of Michigan."f* “It sounds like a lot of work -- and it is a 1,q( of work - to train 300 people," Palmer added. “But it was really heartwarming to know that we had that much interest in Barry County to make our elections run smoothly and I really appreciate every one who came out." , J Fiscal responsibility aids Hastings Area School System during pandemic Sophie Bates Staff Writer In 2012, the Hastings Area School System had a deficit of approximately $600,000; now, according to a recent audit report, lhe district has $2.4 million in its general fund balance, which is essentially a rainy-day fund. Thc audit’s findings Here presented by Jon Ringlein, a CPA from Murr Costcrisan, which completed the audit, tqle Hastings Board of Education at its meethg Monday evening. Ringlein, an audit manager, began his pre­ sentation by praising lhe beard of education’s finance committee and Tim Berlin, assistant superintendent of operations and the head of the finance committee, for pitting together a sound and accurate financial statement. “Our responsibility as auditors is to express an opinion on these financial statements," Reinglein said. “We have an urxnodified opin­ ion — that’s great news, that’s Another one for the district — that’s the highest opinion that wc can give. That’s our level of assurance stat­ ing that these financial statements are present­ ed fairly in all material respects? Reinglein went on to congratulate the board of education for the fiscal responsibility that allow ed lhe district to amass a positive general fund balance. Berlin said the board achieved this by making some hard decisions, including reducing employee compensation and staff numbers; however, as the general fund balance has grown, Berlin noted the district has begun to restore these cuts. ”... Fiscally prudent decisions by the board had grown this fund balance — which we call lhe general fund balance — over the past • Approved a three-year contract extension seven years," Ringlein said. with Leaping Lizards for snowplowing and Hie general fund balance had risen to a little landscaping services. 7 over $3 million at the beginning of the 2020­ • Accepted a $1,000 donation from 21 school year. However, S595JOOO was taken Mercantile Bank of Michigan to purchase from the general fund balance this year to Chromebooks or Chromebook carts cover a reduction in funding from the stale, • Was advised about thc district’s online and which was indirectly linked to COVID-19. virtual attendance numbers from September “The district used about S595JOOO of fund In lhe first two weeks of the school year —=• balance this year. If the district did not take Sept. 2-15 — attendance was at 99 percent, in steps to grow thc fund balance to where it was, the two following weeks — Sept. 16-29 — the team wouldn’t have been prepared for attendance was at 97 percent, and in the laft CO VID-19. So really, really great job in doing week of the month — Sept. 30-Oct. 6 — atten­ that, getting the fund balance where it needs to dance was at 98 percent. be." Ringlein told the board. “So that’s the percent of our enrolled stu­ ' Berlin said he hopes to build the general dents who had proper two-way communica­ tion during those days. Those arc outstanding fund balance back up. “The good part is that we did have fund percentages." Remenap said. “This is realty balance to cut into — wc had built it up over good news for all of us and a tribute to our the past several years — and can hopefully administrators and teachers for being on thg ’’' build it up going forward. The biggest reason ball on this." • Learned Remenap’s goals for the 2020-21 that we did cut into is that we received a cut in school year, which concern governance anil our state aid of $450,000." Sixty percent of the district’s expenditures board relations, community relations, staff for thc 2019-20 fiscal year — which amounted relations, business and finance, instructional to $27 million — went toward instruction and leadership and student growth. “I think one of the most important things I’d 37 percent went to support services. Thc total general fund revenue was $2656 million, like to focus on is relationships, climate and which was under budget primarily due to lhe culture," Remenap said. “Thai’s a constant thing we want to strive to improve here cut in state aid after year-end, Berlin said. ? “When you gel a clean audit, it’s a big deal. Hastings." • Heard about the resignations of Hannah I mean, we’re talking tens of millions of dol­ lars here." board trustee Dan Patton said. “It’s Crum, a paraprofessional at Southeastern a lot of money to keep track of. and it’s import­ Elementary; Heather Tolsma, a bus driver; agd the reassignment of paraprofessional Tiffany ant that it’s spent correctly." Speer. In other business, the board: William Franklin Cromwell llmsw, caadc, cts Is now receiving clients with focus on Trauma, LGBTQ, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD. Adults, Adolescents, and Children. Merid&n & McLaren insurances. Payment options available. Meadow Run Holistic Counseling HotoUc TherQpi0s lor body, mind and spirit, for all ages. Phone: 269.945.8806 • Fax: 269.945.9907 450 Run. Suite 400. Hastings. 49053 FRANCES “POPPY HERSHBERGER is turning 90 mi Oct. 29,2020 In honor of her birthday, we are planning a celebration card shower. Send her a little note, or a memory of how you jl. know her along with your card. * M Send to: Poppy Hershberger, 912 McArthur St., Lake Odessa, Ml 48849 ftedwork Gatherings Trench General by Moda® I. W I % kiNNEY Numbing Mas“:r H‘uni’cr New <■.„ Journeyman Plunibrr i,XAOi‘aVI'0"' remodel, repair, drain > 'ft V -------- - QUESTIONS: ASK US... "I­ '^ord white water heaters^ frr'ru/M/M/i M r,Cv (269) 948-2248 i‘*>l,Tj',n“) ffn 'Print Cotton 5112 tg*SSi �Peg* 4 — Thursday. October 22, 2020 - lhe Hast^r, Bantw Did you see? Time to break up the tech giants When the spirit moves Recently, while driving on West ” Green Street near South Market. Jacqueline Muma of Rutland Township spotted this ghastly creature with Hashing white and then purple lights waving in the wind. The sheeted ghost was 'both spooky scary and beautifully transparent as it went through its color evolutions, she said. Many houses are decorated for fall or Halloween, with themes ranging from harvest to hilarious and ghostly to ghastly. Do you remember? Off to see the Lions ’! ' Oct. 10, 1978 Reminder Thanks to special funding from ttie U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare, provided through the Calhoun Action Agency, these children will be traveling to see The Detroit Lions Oct. 22. The children ’are making the trip through their participation in the Big Brothers-Big Sisters in Barry County. Among those going are (front, from left) Scott Goodenough. Robert Mann; (second <ow) Mark Goodenough, Brenda -.Goodenough, Jody Waller, Larry Allen, Richard Mann; (third row) Glenn Bullock, Steve Nesbitt, Billy Bell, Harley Daniels, David Durant, Joe Fulford and Kim Waller. [The Lions beat the San Diego Chargers 31-14 in that game 42 years ago today. The local youngsters were among a crowd of 54,031 watching the game at the new Pontiac Silverdome, which had opened three years earlier.] Have you met? i Faith, family and baking - Pastor Richard “Rick” Foster, 63, has laid down his roots at Dowling Country Chapel and has embraced those three passions to help the little congregation flourish. ' Foster was the eldest of Richard and Yvonne Foster's six children. He was bom in Mount Pleasant, but moved to St Johns in . 1964, graduating from St. Johns High School in 1975. / He attended Olivet College and later * Michigan State University for a degree in hotel, restaurant and institutional ^management. He became certified as a cook and pastry chef in the American Culinary Federation while al MSU. He also worked al the University Club as its pastry chef. Foster moved to Colorado Springs, Colo., in 1987, where he worked as a pastry chef at a “fancy resort’* for two years. ’ While in Colorado, he subscribed lo The Lansing State Journal because, he said, he was sure he would be moving back to Michigan. Eventually, he responded to an ad for a production manager position at Zehnder’s restaurant and bakery in Frankenmuth. That’s where he met his wife, Renee, a relationship that resulted in five .children and 11 grandchildren. Their marriage kicked off several key life events, he said. The newlyweds were asked to be youth leaders at a Methodist church in Vassar, a small town east of Frankenmuth. They also opened a bakery in Vassar and, while Jiving there, welcomed their first child, Hannah. “Sweet Things Bakery & Gifts was an important part of downtown Vassar for five years,” Foster said. “We worked very hard ind loved everything about lhe small town.” The family later moved to Eaton Rapids, where he worked at Robbins United Methodist Church. There, he said he fell the industry, Renee and 1 feel like we are in lhe right place at the right time.” Foster said. “We are a radical hospitality-gifted church at Country Chapel.” Although concerns over the COVlD-19 pandemic have slowed his philanthropic efforts, he expects their giving ways to ramp up again. “We will again return to our free community breakfasts and special dinners each month." Foster said. "I love making cinnamon rolls, frcsh bread and hot cross buns at church." Revival is in the air, Foster said. we have over 100 regular attenders al Country Chapel and consider our church and church family to be i vital Parl of the saTS?>^‘and growth,” Foster . . 1 . has broupht together a very wi*>asIorand-wife combination church ?ci,cd and famil) oncnted this? 8C1 thinfs done, for such a tune as Paslor Rick Foster calling to begin a full-time ministry. lie and his wife completed their latest move lo Barry County iil'2016 when he was appointed pastor of ■’bowling Country Chapel. “We love this area so much.” Foster said. “The people, the geography, and since becoming pastor, wc have baptized 39 men. women and children.” Since moving here, Foxier also has led an initiative lo open lhe first Phase of a handicapaccessible playground arlhe church. Other community events that hAkc lung been a part of lhe church, and lhe Fosters have continued, include spaghetti dinners, breakfasts,chicken dinners, and special events, such as a fall festival. “With our backgrounds in lhe hospitality I-or his contribution. his newest home community. Riek p"' week’s Bmwer Unght Li >»stcr ,S Fowyearsof First eS.ba?d-Go Green­ delivering ttewL,^* MoW,ng ’ tell in love The Wheel inn Heasant. That ? where learned how to m i” ^taurant busies How the B. .cinnamon rollsThe youth chef became a Pa,‘°^ Vassar was the L lh« Method's* church m was leading u, ,Kl’"">hig of what I feel God First chun-h. M .................. SeeHAVf V0(Jpage±-j irt the United Stales. Roosevelt used My intention here is not to judge whether K. up the entity because it had £ much control over sh.ppmg and .1 a front-page New York Post story published last week was fake news or an example of destroyed any chance of competition. good, honest and hard-hitting reporting. A similar situation came down in a 1911 My greater concern is what happened Supreme Court decision ordering the dissoafter the piece appeared. jmfon of Standard Oil Company, which had The Post article, with accompanying bu H a monopoly in .he oil industry by buy­ emails and photos from a laptop computer ing up rival refineries and developing com­ allegedly owned by Hunter Biden, the son panies for distributing and marketing their of former vice president and current presi­ X across the country. The various dential candidate Joe Biden, revealed the companies combined under the= S^ndard younger Biden’s involvement with the Oil name in 1882. controlled some 90 per­ Ukrainian energy company, Burisma. After cent of the nation’s pipelines and retinenes. reviewing the computer data, the owner of a In each of these decisions, thc Sherman Delaware repair shop contacted lhe FBI, Antitrust Act proved the need to outlaw then made a copy of the hard drive for Robert Costello, a lawyer for Rudolph "every contract, combination, or conspiracy Guiliani. an adviser to President Donald in restraint of trade.” and to fight against Trump. Giuliani then turned the hard drive “monopolization, attempted monopoliza­ tion, or conspiracy or combination to over to The Post. My beef is not whether Biden or his monopolize.” Based on these historical facts alone, father benefited from the relationship given Congress should act swiftly today against their positions, but how the story - ques­ tionable in terms of its reliability or not - lech giants that not only control much of the became part of a censorship battle by the social media industry, but that also use their two largest tech companies in this country, power and influence to become politically Twitter and Facebook. dominant. The CEOs of Facebook, Google and Both social media platforms blocked lhe story- from transmission on its websites. Twitter have agreed to testify before the Twitter even went so far as to suspend lhe Senate Commerce Committee when they’ll account of White House Press Secretary address Section 230 of the Communications Kaylcigh McEnany. who said she was Decency Act. That rule protects tech com­ “reporting the truth" when sharing details of panies from liability over lhe content posted The Post account. by users on their online services, while: Twitter’s official position was that it had allowing lhe companies to moderate it. taken such drastic action because The Post The hearing also will cover lhe topics of story’ was based on hacked material, but it privacy and “media domination,” but it did not explain its claim that the emails .should also cover the power lhat the tech were illegally procured. Later, 'Twitter giants hold over information and lhe ability attempted to clarify, slating that, “lhe imag­ to determine what should be posted on their es contained in lhe articles included person­ platforms. When the Sherman Antitrust Act al and private information,” which violates was adopted nearly 130 years ago, the company rules. It went on to suggest that Congress was concerned that big companies The Post contained “harmful" content. would control commerce in a growing coun­ As the attack against Twitter intensified, try. Today, a handful of tech companies CEO Jack Dorsey tweeted that his compa­ dominate the industry and continue to gob­ ny’s actions were “unacceptable” without ble up startups as they gain success in the providing additional context and provided a industry. . link to a thread from a Twitter Safety It’s lime for Congress to take away thc account which explained that The Post story special protections granted under Section wasn’t just banned for "hacked informa­ 230, especially when considering thc act’s tion,” but also because the images contained wording which states, “No provider or user private emails and phone numbers. of an interactive computer service shall be On Facebook’s behalf, company commu­ treated as the publisher or speaker of any nications -manager Andy Stone said it was information provided by another informa­ "reducing its distribution" pending tion content provider.” third-party fact checking. At lhe same lime. Congress also should In a following editorial.The Post charged consider limiting thc ability of these social lhe two social network companies of politi­ media platforms lo continually buy startup cal bias and of promoting the Biden presi­ companies that provide competition in the dential campaign, claiming that, “Facebook marketplace. and Twitter are not media platforms, they’re The Federal Communications propaganda machines." This despite thc fact Commission also is entering the discussion, that The Post had lo search its newsroom for now rethinking thc legal protection it has reporters willing to have their names used as granted these social media sites after lhe a byline on a story lhat staff members said widespread rebukes in lhe wake of Facebook lacked reliable sourcing. The two names and Twitter blocking last week’s New York used were of those of a first-byline, new Post story. It’s time that the federal govern­ hire that had spent 14 years at Fox News ment holds these lech giants to the same and a reporter who didn’t even realize her rules that it does newspapers over liability name was on lhe story until she saw the issues due to misinformation and disinfor­ already printed edition. mation. It is eroding trust in politics and our Objective or biased news reporting is not public institutions. the point here. The control of the two mega Today, too much power has been given to social network companies being able lo cen­ a few unaccountable digital corporations sor what we read is. It’s a threat to our such as Twitter and Facebook and Google, democracy. and it’s time for Congress to hold them Presently, Twitter owns 55 organizations accountable. As more people get their news and employs more than 4,900 people. online, government officials have a respon­ Facebook owns 72 companies and employs sibility to set rules and regulations that pro­ more than 44,900 full-time employees. tect consumers from “fake news" as well as Facebook reportedly controls more than 55 news that has been censored by these big percent of the social media business and lech corporations. Twitter is still listed as the top channel sur­ Roosevelt wisely cautioned lhat antitrust veyed by participants. legislation wasn’t intended to control indus­ Here’s where these numbers hit home: A tries that provided good service at reason­ recent report from lhe Pew Research Center, able rates; it was designed to protect con­ stales that, “Few Americans arc confident in sumers from companies misusing their tech companies to prevent misuse of their power. No company, Roosevelt believed, is platforms in the 2020 election. Three- above thc law. quarters of U.S. adults say technology com­ At thc time of lhe Sherman Antitrust Act, panies have the responsibility to prevent lhe some considered Roosevelt a “trustbuster." misuse of their platforms to influence thc For those who recognized his visionary 2020 presidential election, but only around leadership, though, Roosevelt maintained a a quarter say they are very or somewhat consistent position lhat “there is a power confident in these firms to do so." larger than lhe power of even the biggest, Today, around seven-in-10 Americans wealthiest business organization." use social media to connect with one anoth­ In his 1901 State of the Union message, er, engage with news content, share infor­ Roosevelt called on Congress to curb the mation and entertain themselves," the Pew power of trusts. report stated. So, is it time for Congress to “Great corporations exist only because put more controls on these tech giants and lhey are created and safeguarded by our limit their ability to gobble up competition institutions," he declared. Therefore, it is in an effort to control the platforms and the "our nght and our duty to see that they work information we read? m harmony with these institutions. The Sherman Antitrust Act was enacted ‘Our aim is not to do away with corpora­ in 1890 to curtail combinations of power lions; on the contrary, these big aggrega­ that interfere wilh trade and reduce econom­ tions arc an inevitable development of mod­ ic competition. It outlaws both formal busi­ ern mdustnalism. We are not hostile to ness cartels and any attempts to monopolize 'hem; we are merely determined that they commerce in the Uniled States. Over the shall be so handled as lo serve the public years, it has guaranteed lhat every American good. We draw the line against misconduct, business gets a fair opportunity to compete not against wealth. and has ensured that the American consum­ It’s time for congress to step up and set er can rely on lhe best products at lhe best Xe„T7habk 1Uni,S °n ,he prices, thanks to market competition. ' t 8'a”'S and 10 ,akc away any President Theodore Roosevelt's adminis­ pnvdegcs that protect them from thehposb tration realized the malice in business mgs - especially when they use their pX monopolies and used the Sherman Antitrust and influence lo determine what they think X K Act in 1902 to dismantle the Northern consumers need to sec. Securities Corporation. That entity was a “holding company,” a combination of sepa­ Fred Jacobs, CEO rate railroads administered by a board of J-Ad Graphics Inc trustees to control railroading in the north- �The Hastings Banner —- Thursday, October 22, 2020 — Pago 5 appeals to county Republicans Decency is foundation of best candidates lb the editor: 1 an' a ^red veterinarian. For Unimak I. ,avc t;iken cnre of other people’s M h\ 1 haVC bccn Privticged to see people M Ihur most canng and loving. Maybe that's Hhy I am such an optimist. Pc0P!e Prov*tie all sorts of reasons when ey talk about why they support n candidate lor office. It could be candidates’ accomplishments, their positions, their wealth and success, their support for a particular favored issue or outcome. Sometimes it is their willingness to criticize someone else, perhaps a rival or a foreign enemy that we also fear or dislike. Maybe it is the belief lhat they will protect our prosperity if we have it, or lead us to prosperity if we don't. These are all potentially important reasons to support a candidate. But, for me, these arc secondary. I begin by asking if a candidate is a decent human being. Are they loving and caring? Are they understanding and sympathetic? In the words of Jefferson Smith, lhe character Jimmy Stewart plays in thc best movie about Washington politics ever made, “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington,” I wouldn’t give you two cents for a candidate for president if “they didn’t have a little bit of plain, ordinary, everyday kindness - and a little lookin’ out for thc other fella, too.” If a man isn't a decent human being with a little bit of plain, ordinary kindness, 1 can’t seriously consider him as a worthy candidate for office. Ask yourself who seems more like a decent human being: Joe Biden or Donald Trump? Besides, Donald Trump is the first president in more than 100 years to not have had a pet in the White House. Dr. Kenneth M. Komheiser, Prairieville Township Not disclosing jail site leads to troubling questions To the editor: When voters consider how to vote in regard to the Barry County jail funding. I encourage them to consider a few issues: If the proposed new jail w as planned for the current site, there would be no reason to keep the location a secret. If the site under consideration was not controversial, wc would know where lhat site is. Not disclosing the site in order to avoid a price run-up is a ridiculous, underhanded smokescreen. The current owner of the site has the same power to run up the price just as any new7intermediate speculative buyer does - unless some sort of purchase agreement is in place, in which case non-public disclosure is not necessary. I Questions for those who care about the county To thc editor: Several questions for people who care about Barry County: Is Sheriff Leaf as cozy with militia mem­ bers as he seemed to be in some news footage of rallies? If he’s not, why did he look like a man try­ ing to swallow a prickly pear, whole, when questioned by a reporter from WOOD-TV? Does the sheriff have any militia members on his staff or on his “posse”? Wiry has the sheriff refused to enforce COVID-19 regulations from stale govern­ ment officials? Lawrence Hamp. Hastings Time to change time change To the editor: • Why is there never a proposal on lhe ballot to abolish lhe time change? Once or twice each year some politician says they’re going to introduce a bill to do so. Gil Tale, Hastings The site under consideration is a valuable parcel currently generating taxes for lhe community. Wherever lhal is. the neighbors of lhat parcel do not want a jail there. It may be agricultural or it may be near residential or commercial areas. In any case, it will not go smoothly. We badly need a new jail, but first we need to be able to trust lhe people developing the plan. Jeremy Boge, Hastings Sheriff needs to resign from law enforcement To the editor: Dar Leaf must resign as county sheriff and from law enforcement, altogether. Your paper has quoted him as saying, “I cannot uphold the law.” He admits he cannot do his job. He needs to goDar Leaf is a member of the “constitutional sheriff” movement. It essentially holds that sheriffs - not the governor nor the federal government - are the final word on interpreting the Constitution within their counties. We are not safe with a sheriff who wants to be the final word for law, and refuses to be accountable to lhe law' enforcement hierarchy. Sheriff Leaf consorts with, and approves of, alleged terrorists, the Null brothers and their cohorts. He says they are “nice” and “respectful.” Dar Leaf is unfit to participate in law enforcement because he will not enforce the law. Pamela Englerth, Hastings Correction Due to incorrect information on the Michigan Secretary of State website, the number of candidates voters may choose in lhe race for Prairieville Township park com­ mission was incorrect on Page 17 of Thc Hastings Banner 2020 Voters Guide. Voters may select up to five candidates for lhat town­ ship park commission. The Hastings Banner Oeuotcd to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Pub^hedby... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 , releases: news@j-adgraphlcs.com • Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com News and press __________________________________ Frederic Jacobs Publisher & CEO Hank Schuuring .newsroom• Rebecca Pierce tothv Maurer (Copy Editor) Luke Froncheck Sophie Bates Taylor Owens Greg Chandler__________ —---------- ----i ■ . ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • ClissJ od ads accepted Monday through Friday BJQ am. to 5.00 p.m. Scott Ommen Mike Gilmore Ty Greenfield Jennie Yonker Subscription Rates: $52 per year in Barry County $60 per year in adjoining counties $65 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER Stnd addrws enanges to: P.O. Box tea Hastings. Ml 490580108 Second Class Poslago Pax! at HxVngs Ml 49053 lb the ed|,<rd.u'Brehm. My nam<' , gidcfoI 1 ani a can’ didate for * JJ th»s ^anipa-' When 1 SUIW .’J did not expect the “ ! ffw months ।' ll”t I have received the ’3> survey,/'aware that Realtors, "llor''|, were fedother real estate profess'0 . been c, • "nit some of the policies lh» awtite t|,al'] ""er the last few years- 1 MllcJ head., "'e county employees had )cd |() ^h the current Register, employees moving on10 just how m. ; I was not offiec J the public’s trust in that As 11 TlXr local DeXlXpcclcd tile support of upportofmyftie^j ,h- 1 fu’ly expected iht■ >wnnd' a«d family including»ofc ► somew|la{ a»d lovely wife Gloria. fll gaini Upected that I had a deccn< • ” rca| esialA^ support of Realtors and <>^wben , u, Passionals which proved tr Alliance nursed by the Greater Regional t RCahOrs , djd nut anticipate thc public support from local Republicans, as shown by my yard signs appearing in spaces typically reserved for the more conservative candidates during an elec­ tion season. What this has told inc is that people arc paying attention. I sat down to get my hair cut a couple of days ago, and before I was even asked how J wanted my hair cut, the stylist asked, “How’s lhe campaign going?” Just yes­ terday, one of the vendors from my work asked how he could get a sign for his yard to show his support, and I met him in thc Family Fare parking lot. After chatting with him for a few minutes, I went into the store to pick up some things for dinner and. before 1 even made it in lhe store, I was stopped by one of my daugh­ ter’s teachers, who asked, “How arc you feel­ ing about Nov. 3?" People arc watching. What I bring to the table is adaptability and flexibility. I bring thc willingness to work WITH other departments at the county level, and WITH the townships of Barry County, instead of demanding they bend to my will before I do my job. ' My goals arc simple: I will revise lhe fed schedule to ensure property owners are only charged what is necessary and allowed by Mat ’ ute. I will restore document numbers and recording information, and ensure public! information is, in fact, public information. £ will repair and restore inter departmental and| intergovernmental cooperation to ensure any governmental unit with legitimate interests in property ownership and property interests wilC have access to any information they require. | In two weeks, voters have a decision id make, and thc choice is clear. In the wools oil our elected county surveyor, voters will chooso between a “good, stable Democrat” and ad “unhinged Republican.” And. if you drive* around our county, you will sec that this “good, stable Democrat” has the support of a great deal of good, stable Republicans. Thank you for your lime. Jordan Brehm, Hasting^ New twist on old rule: Wear a mask heart fellow Michiganders «•* ® her up" at Trump's rally J«f. “ of weeks' after Gov. Gretchen lfc was threatened. I understand that or lives have changed, and many are strugg 8 th with thc loss of loved ones and fi™"0'’11* hut perhaps wc should be concentrating On how President Trump and Congress hast not done their jobs I. to one, believe our governor has ten doing thc best things she can do to protect all our lives from COViu-iq, whi(,h an invisible enemy. We can t sec it or smc|1 but it is touching us and our families every day. We should have had the correct information regarding thejvmis as soon as the president was notified about how deadly this was going to be. Now 220,000 arc lost to us - and that number is still growing. We are not turning a comer, as he says. We arc now in a third wave of this killer and still people refuse to follow guidelines that would help gel the virus under control. I know people who refuse to wear masks because “this is America and we can do what wc want.” When I was a young girl, I remember my mother telling me. “You live in the best country of the world, where you can make your own choices - unless your choices can hurt someone else.” Her example to me was, “If you are eating a banana, don’t throw the peel on the ground, where the person behind you might step on it and fall.” I know this example is simple, but 1 was very young. It’s the Golden Rule: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. So, if you are one of those people who won’t wear a mask, wash your hands or keep six feel between you and your neighbor, this is on your shoulders. You and Mr. Trump have let our country and fellow citizens down. Our president let us all down by not wearing a mask and telling everyone they must do the same to protect our people. But if you go tc rallies, stand shoulder to shoulder without wearing a mask, you have no right to criticize Gov. Whitmer for doing her job, trying tc protect us, when the president is calling her “That woman in Michigan” and not stopping people when they arc shouting “Lock her up'1 at his rallies. I’m sure she really wants to get us back t J work and a normal life, which would be muchj easier if everyone would just wear a mask. j Ilona Hagon. Nashville Bigger county jail is not the answer citizens come from is growing, and the age common sense to ask thc voters to approve a To thc editor: You can have a new jail and a new group inmates come from is decreasing. bond issue of $25 million or less for a smaller Commission on Aging building for $25 Wouldn’t you rather build a new COA jail, which the facts call for, and a new COA million if you build a jail the size the facts say. building for people who have been paying building, both on their existing sites. Our farm is split in both Assyria aid The facts say a 90-bed jail will more than property taxes for 30,40 or 50 years, instead provide lhe space needed if you look at the of only a jail for prisoners who have paid little Johnstown townships, and 1 have talked with) or no property taxes? facts which are: many neighbors, and we will not vote for onlyi Fred Jacobs in his “In My Opinion” column a jail the facts say is loo big. • A TowerPinksler representative told lhe ! audience at the Johnstown Township Sept. 10 said it all: “Vote ‘No’ on a jail But I think a bond issue for $25 million foil informational meeting thatthe age group most proposal lhat leaves so many questions both a new smaller jail and a 20jOOO-square-‘. jail inmates arc in hasbren dropping in the unanswered.” foot COA would pass. I would vote for it. ‘ j past few years. .... , . Next year will bring a new county board ■’ ’’’ 3htrte$‘.King^ . ' AssyxiltTo.wij^ • On WBCH Ra/rc tach morning, the and I certainly hope a chairman who will use • number of inmates h the'jail is between 50 and 80. That's been the number for the past five lo 10 years. • Barry County Judge Michael Schipper said with bail reform coming, a jail holding 50 *. inmates would be big enough. I certainly would trust a judge’s judgment The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, biri Sheriff Dar Leaf said at a meeting, “The there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published! bigger you build a jail, the mote people you The requirements are: ' need to run it.” It was stated in The Hastings Banner lhat, •All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone if we build a jail too big, we could rent out number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s space to other counties and bring inmates in. name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous That could work in reverse: If we have too letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion fo( many inmates, we could rent space in other compelling reasons only. counties. Would you rather have extra inmates • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not leave Barry County, instead of bringing other be published. i ; people's inmates into Barry County? • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. TowerPinksler showed in a handout paper that a jail with 108 beds could be built at the • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not present jail site - and could be built for $21.7 be accepted. million. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks" will not be accepted If a 90-bed jail is built, it’s 16 percent unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined smaller than lhe $21.7 million jail. We realize by the editor. a 90-bed jail could not be built for 16 percent • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published less, but it probably could be built for half, or or will be edited heavily. ” ; 8 percent, less, which would be $ 19.96 million • “Crossfire" letters between the same two people on one issue will bd dollars on the existing site. The same handout showed a new limited to one for each writer. } Commission on Aging building of 20,000 • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per square feet, nearly one-half acre, could be person per month. t built, on .site, for $5.09 million. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. So, for $25.05 million, you can have a jail that the facts say hig enough, and a new COA building forour senior citizens. This possibly may be even lower in cost, because TowerPinksler possibly has some “wiggle room” in the estimates. I was in the surveying and civil engineering business for more than 40 years, as a draftsman and an Michigan Legislature ‘ ; owner, and we always had a little wiggle Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Democrat. P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909.I room in our estimates to cover unforeseen Dhnno (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). I costs. Pctato Reoresentative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County),! The biggest money savings Wou|d (o use MirhioanR House of Representatives. N-1191 House Office Building. Lansing, Ml' existing sites for the jail and C0A buildings< TowerPinksler said them was room on each Tooti Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov . ' 48ct3JB Senator Dr John Bizon. Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517-i site for them. . mo 9426 or toll-free 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov: U.£.j The rearon this so imponant is all the Sen. Dr John Bizon. P.O. Box 30036. Lansing Ml 48909. infrastructure is alreauy there: waler_ sanilar>. sewer, electric, ga5’ [°adwaySi elc At a meeting 0L^Uaty commissioners U.S. House of Representatives ( ' Write Us A Letter: -------------------- -——————— 'J (Know Your Legislators: before the firstforum. a Hastings Township official said, |f jail and the COA on the P« b° ■> <he will both go down the tube,... geth,-r’,hey What a s'uP‘d and "on-common-sense statement that was. tn Ord chance for this bond pru *° have an) must include a COA bui|d^a of people over 50 years of"h to get the vote lheir parents, use the CoA they, and alley should have sai(1 ‘toes. and COA building put t( ”llhoul the jai proposal will go down the h-toer, the bond TowerPinksler said ,hc *s. group senior , .• Amnch indeoendent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House! Jus o AMnnhWoshtoaton D C. 20515-2203. phone (202) 225-3831. fax (202) 225-i Mcffl: IK^Michigan Street NW, Su.te 460. Grand Rapids. Mich. 4950i.( phone (616) 451-8383. J U.S. Senate i Debbie Stabenow. Democrat. 702 Hart Senate Office Building. Washington. D.C., 20510. phone (202) 224-48K^(( Senate Off,ce Building. Washington, D.C. 20510 : Gary Peters, Demo . D{strjct ottice. Geraid R. Ford Federal Building, Room 2202, phone (248) • Gfand R jdSf Mich 49503-2313, phone (616) 233­ r r 720, 110 Michigan Streei ino, 9150. |in0- 1-202-456-1111. Cap 77 mation line for Congress! President's common 3^1 and the Senate. £ �Page fl - Thursday. October 22. 2020 — The Hastings 6amw Elaine Garlock i 1 akcn'aod .Veirj section ot the Reminder had thc news recently that Cobb's Car Wash/ ifube had been sold. The new sign indicated the owners arc named Randall • Last week’s column should have listed the Oct. 20 hhxximohile at Fellowship Hall. The pints collected amounted to 40 • The planters in Ute business section of Lake (Jdessa are still looking good. The central figure in each was a tall eanna. Those have lud their day but the surrounding begonias arc still looking good. The arts commission usually ha a fall planting followed by winter arrangements. . Central United Methodist Church has a lull display in its front planter beside colorful mum plants and even late blooming red moss. McCartney Insurance has window Im.xcs filled wilh red geraniums. Koops Chapel has window boxes filled with yellowmums. Thc Hair Port has tall plants with shows red blossoms. Last week’s paper had a photo and notice of a new beauty salon in the Woodbury' area. Hie address is on Saddle Bag Lake Road. The speaker at Central United Methodist Church Sunday was Andy R‘lSh 0 Ledge, a layman from the Wacos a • Also at lite service, certificates for a » participation in the duties of the enure i' awarded lo several members. beginning , a pre-teen lad who serves always as an au I) IV. . First Congregational Church was to host ix annual harvest dinner Wednesday, Oct. ~ • Marilyn Nofikc is going double duty organ playing. First she is atthc Congregation*'. Church for its 10 a.m. service. Then sc leaves and arrives at Central Untied Metho is Church in time to play for its 10:30 service there. . McDonald’s restaurant had on its high sign a lower flag saying “Wc miss you. Juanita. This was a nice tribute from the business m recognition of its long-time employ ee Juanita (Galaviz) Richmond. , When one has a landmark birthday, the greetings keep on coming far beyond the nata day. This week this writer received a card and letter from a long-ago Belding cousin wishing a happy belated birthday, the date of which was in late August. He had happened to see an August copy of a newspaper. Carl Robert Nelson “Bob” passed away on Monday. Oct. 19.2020. He was bom on December 5, 1937 in Princeton. IL to Carl and Mabel Nelson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Mabel Nelson and his brother, Ronald Nelson. He will be deeply missed by his wife of 60 years. Judith A. Nelson; his children, Robert I’. (Kristine) Nelson. James C. (Mary Pat) Nelson; grandchildren, Scott Nelson. .Alex Nelson, Carole Anne Nelson. Sean (Caitlin) Nelson. Catherine Nelson, Paige (Jack) Purvis, Sarah Nelson; brother, Richard (Ka) Nelson; sisters, Nyla (Roy) Wachter, Nancy (Jim) Hopkins, Norila (Steve) Cunningham; sister-in-law, Kelly Nelson and many extended family and friends. Bob was raised on lhe family farm in NewBedford. IL. He graduated from the University of Illinois. He then had a successful 35-ycar career in the pharmaceutical industry-, retiring from Alcon Laboratories in 1996. Bob was involved in many areas of thc community. Those areas where he was an active board member included Gun Lake Protective Association, Barry County Community Mental Health. Commission on Aging for Barry County and Southwest Michigan Behavior Health One of thc most important parts of Bob’s life was his faith. He was an active member al Gun Lake Community Church. Bob devoted his life to his wife. Judy, his children and his seven grandchildren. Visitation with the family will be held from 4 lo 7 p.m. on Friday. Oct. 23. 2020 at Gun Lake Community Church. 12200 W. M-179 Hwy., Wayland. Ml 49348. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday. Oct. 24. 2020 at Gun Lake Community Church with visitation from 10-10:45 a.m prior lo the service. Pastor Dan Beyer will be officiating. Bob will be laid to rest at Robbins Cemetery. In memory of Bob and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Barry County Community Mental Health. 'lhe family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www. kubiakcookwayland.com. Bill is precede jn deIrt|, by his patents ;ll>n n • W *"'■‘'lighter Joy Carpenter. Bill is survived by his wife. Sandra Jones; his son. Kenh Nun|ey; and step children. J\fewbom babies Elijah James Spitzer, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on September 17, 2020 to Shaunie Spitzer and Tyler Spitzer of Charlotte. Blythe Maisey Finch, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on September 24, 2020 to Kimberly Finch and Elijah Finch of Clarksville. ***** Easton Lee Fuller, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on September 26, 2020 to Eliza Mac Cheeseman and Christopher Lxe Fuller of Hastings. ***** Nicole Heidi Louise Hagen, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on September 29, 2020 to Ciera Nicole Vannoty and Michael Anthony Lcitzke of Sherwood Township. ***** Sabina Cautis, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on September 30. 2020 to Elena Cautis and George Cautis of Hastings. Serenity Hanicq. born at Spectrum Health Pennock to Jade Reynolds and Skyler Anthony Hanicq of Nashville. ***** Juniper Jo Keldaline Bockheim, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on October 2, 2020 to Daisy Bowers and Cody Bockheim of Kalamazoo. Worship Together Arthur Ixonard and Nickole \ickery (Scott); as well as his siblings. Connie Culp , Linda Waldrcn, LarryJones. and Kathy Jones; alone with his grandchildren, Jessica Kuykendall, Samantha Moon, Mason Leonard. Quinn Leonard. Elijah Leonard. Sydney Ixonard. Kassi Pineau, Meagan Vickery, Ixvgan Cross, Brooke Cross, Keith Nunley Jr., Ambrianna Nunley, and great grandchildren. Jasper Kuykendall. Kori Kuykendall, Max Vickery, loby Moon. Row4;n Moore. Russell Moon. Lilith Kuykendall, anj Morrison Harmon. Aurora Pineau. Bill vvas accomplished at building custom fishing rods and loved to fish, lie was a generous individual Who loved everyone. He was also an active and dedicated member of the Inward Man Fellowship Church in Prairiev ille A service is scheduled for Saturday. Oct. 24. 2020 2 pm. at thc Inward Man Fellowship Chunk located at 10221 S. Norris Rd.. Deltoa \f| 49046, Pastor Bill Blair will ofiic./.. the ceremony. A celebration of Bib’Wc will immediately follow at the DetyhVhV Post 422 located at 10353 Stone/ Poht Dr.. Delton. Ml 49046. All arc welcome to attend the service and or celebration.to gather with friends and family. ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH n An Expression Of Who Jesus Is To Thc World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy.. P.O. Box 8, Hastings. Telephone 269-945­ hastfmc(G gm nil 9121. Email vein. Website: www.hastings frremcthodist.com. P.islor Brian Teed. Student Ministries Director. Emma Miller, Worship Director, Sunday Martha Stoetzd. Morning Worship: 9am and 10:30 a.m. beginning June 21 until further notice. Due to the current health crisis, our nursery is temporarily closed and we are temporarily suspending all Children's ministries. Our church sanctuary is set up for social distancing. We do not ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. 269-945-4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip. Mass 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Mass 8 and 11 a.m. Sunday. 301 E. Stale Rd.. P.O. Box 273. Hastings. Ml 49058. Pastor Scott Price. ~ Phone: 269-948-0900. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlaw n, Hastings. Matt Moser. Lead Pastor. Sunday Sen-ices: 9:15 a.m Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.: Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30-8 p.m.. Kids 4 Truth (Children Kindcrgartcn-5th Grade). 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information. require wearing masks, but do encourage it, especially while walking through die building before and after services. Please keep your family together during thc worship sen ice. Wc are a multi-generational church family and understand that while this breaks. w e arc not inconvenienced by your little one. In an effort to help you. we are providing weekly activity bags for each child. These bags arc to be taken home or disposed of after each Website: wwvv.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p m. 2601 Lacey Road. Dowling, Ml 49050. Pastor. Sieve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Senice: 10 am. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel-chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 u.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. 7025 Milo Rd.. P.O. Box 765, (comer of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, Ml 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 lo 11:30am, Nursery and Children’s Ministry-. Wednesdaynight Bible study and prayer time 6:30 to 7:30 pm CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 am Nursery provided. Pastor Peter /Xdams, contact 616 690-8609. Statewide child support community advisory committee being formed PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH could mean outbursts or putty­ Deloris Jean Dipp Beatrice Ann Wi|son Campbell, age 80. of ^‘kc Wales, FL. went home to her Lord on October 19,2020. iortHl,nfe Was boni in Hastings on July 24, 1940 to Melvin and p(,nisby. h-tH rh ’"a™*1 ^rn’ind Neil Wilson and had three sons and one daughter, then later went on to have another daughter. Beatrice married William J ver Campbell on October 10.19f?o U Beatrice was preceded in death by her father; mother; sis( . h Margaret and J--f7)HndonebnThe^^ She is survived i husband. William; ll- use. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, lhe churches and these local businesses: «ibson (A j'”* 'Amber “ Elizabeth ^ Slmev Sm** ' Riner. J0ra (Mau Siachcri’ A«nUr Moore and Steven Moore. Sterra HlkilWlE^U 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 1301W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 Deloris Jean (Owen) Dipp passed away Monday. June 22,2020. Visitation is Thursday. Oct. 29, 2020 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Girrbach Funeral Home, 328 S. Broadway Street. Hastings, Michigan with a Memorial Service Friday, Oct. 30, 2020 at 1 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may Ik- made to thc Freeport Historical Society and to Hope Church of thc Brethren Quilters. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. You may read her full obituary at www. girrbachfuneralhoine.net. *lntdiuon;il and Cremation Services Pre-Planning Sen ices Ltrgr Parking hit • Handicap Accessible Serving All Faiths Pre-arrange mem Transfers Accepted s Flexfob Hhashngs 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 Dorothy (Dottie) Marie Mayo was escorted by angels into the presence of her Ix>rd and Savior. Jesus Christ. Friday. Oct. 16.2020. Burn November 19, 1920. in Lansing, she knew Jesus at a very young age through her Grandmother. Bertha Blinn. whom she loved so very much. Dorothy was a life-long, faithful member of Lutheran Churches in Lansing and Hastings. After graduating from Saginaw High School in 1938. Dorothy again moved to Lansing during the Depression days. Her first job was at Hunts Food Shop in East Lansing. During WWII. she transferred to the meter department at Consumers Power Company. In 1945. Dorothy met the love of her life, Earl Mayo, at a Consumers Power picnic. They married February 2. 1946 at Peoples Church in East Lansing. They were blessed with four children; Steven (Kathy). Robert (Sharon). Laura (David) and Thomas, all of whom have survived her. After moving to Hastings in 1958, Dorothy worked for Attorney Richard Shuster as a paralegal secretary in 1963, and then as the office administrator for Dr. Robert Pryor. She ended her career at Viking Corporation as an office administrator until her retirement in 1988. Also surviving Dorothy are six grandchildren: Joe. Tim, Chris, Lisa, Stephanie, and Steven; five great­ grandchildren: Jacob, Joshua. Joe, Mackenzie, and Madison. Her beloved husband Earl preceded her in death in October 2002. Dorothy’s life was full, well-lived, faithfully pray ing for us all every day of her beautiful life. She was a blessing to so many, and will be greatly missed. Funeral services will be held SaturdayOct. 24. 2020 at 11 a.m. at Hastings Assembly of God Church. 1674 W. State Road. Hastings. MI 49058. Interment after luncheon at Glendale Cemetery. 2500 Mount Hope Rd. Okemos. MI 48864. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Grace Lutheran Church. 239 N East Street. Hastings. MI 49058. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, to leave an online condolence, visit www-. girrbachfunenilhome.net. 32S s- vf I Hastings, MI 19058 •>69-9-15-3^5- * www.girrbachfuncnilhomc.net •mil,™,.-Uy owned and opcraicu l ,lt owm-rKnirmw < ...,ntv.uul siirroiimlnig* .nimmniii.s h>r so Michigan’s Office of Child Support is seeking parents and caregivers to join a community advisory council lo help ensure the office is lair and works for everyone. This el tort is part of Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ efforts on diversity, equity and inclusion. Michigan residents with a child support case are invited to attend an informational meeting lo learn about this new community advisory council. The meetings will be conducted remotely, and persons interested arc asked to RSVP to receive a link to attend. Virtual meeting options arc: Monday. Oct. 26.5:30-7 p.m. Wednesday. Oct. 28: 6:30-8 p.m Thursday. Nov. 5. 6-7:30 p In on Wi" TicW Und P™idc likelv will |X)‘V’V* <--oun<d meetings hkcly u ,11 be held remotely for the foreseeable “Mnnn^e COVID-19 Pandemic. MDHIIS has Identified diversity, equity and inclusion as important priorities in s^rv "•?nfrMichisa',der- ,h'» <leZmen" IMsch s I?d "Ev' C,'|"1J Su|>|X>r* Direv,<’r Erin , 'd tvcl’lhc ,n'>M thoughtful policy uo ertZd U""’,V,’dcd « o Child S "he I- ■ Oflk- °f "nd caregilct, XX.I, r?.^baCk paren,s suppon to help a'u* Pay child Support Program e 'entttej'• ‘ C"iW in on^fd.^.X.m 'ikC a 7k in ’rtcetmgs may call S17 -» n 7M0 or email MDHHS O(X A . * Councilor Michigan gov * °CS Advisory - �..... 4 This fl look hack at the stories and columns on local history [|i the Hastings Banner // turning back the PAGES £2Man_ufach F1 n et! ------- f L 4> The curt*’*; . J* ImpwW F“rT^e Co. ol Table Company severely hit by Depression years ***'<• RoIP11 M^FRanp'li" ** «l Even in 2020, a century or so after lhe Hastings Table Company logo was painted on lhe north side of the building, portions of it were still legib’e. The same image wasprinted as lhe label on the underside of tables manufactured at the plant. r Colonial Mf<‘».«'Z«ltt4iM ll.ro.HlS SimonJ. d Robert Irwin ol Johnson Furniture <-*>• of Kinde! Furniture Co. of CJr3nd This image shows the former Hastings Table Company sometime after the main building doubled in size in the early 1900s. (File photo) Tlic following is a continuation of Marshall L. Cook’s recollections of thc growth of industries in Hastings. He and his brother William R. Cook were co-owners of thc Banner and were not far removed as the factories arrived and either thrived or faltered. Cook wrote man) of the articles initially in the 1920s and 1930s. which were then reprinted in the tour-section centennial edition of the Banner in early May 1956. This is a continuation of Cook’s history ot lhe Hastings Tible Company, which was destroyed by fire Oct. 7. The Royal Coach factor), which occupied thc building w ith the manufacture of sleek travel trailers from 1940-1955, was featured in this column June 30. 2011. My last article mentioned the fact that Mr. Tyden secured Fred Hill to make all the designs for the Table Company’s line, direct the finishes of the goods and have charge of the sales at Grand Rapids. For its 1917 hue. the company displayed a large number and a wide variety of tables that appealed strongly to thc trade. Mr. Ty den’s brother Oscar was superintendent of the plant, and C.W. Clarke had charge of lhe office. Emil Tyden was president and the directing head of the company , shaping its policies, giving to those under him the “Go” sign, but insisting lhat his policies be carried out. His task was by no means an easy one. Mr. Hill was made a member of the board of directors and vice president of the company, and given an opportunity to cam a considerable holding ol its stock. as explained last week. Artistic temperament Fred Hill w;is a genial, kindly man. with an artistic temperament. (He is the same Fred Hill whose son. Fred " red" Hill Jr. hitchhiked to Colorado the summer of 1922 with Dick Cook, son of Banner co-owner W.R. Cook. A two-part recount of their travels was printed in this column in early August.] (Hill J was like most artists quite temperamental, acting when the spirit moved him. but not always at the time his associates would have liked. His 1917 and 1918 lines won great favor with lhe trade. Despite the war into which America entered in 1917 and continued into 1918, lhe Table Company did a large business, which decidedly increased after lhe Armistice was signed. We paid small dividends. Mr.Tyden and lhe directors wished to get in a position to discount all bills and have a surplus in reserve to use in case of an emergency, or for any additions needed for lhe plant. We were all glad on his account as well as our own lhat Mr. Hill earned his $40,000 stock at the end of his Erst five years with the company. We increased the capital to $200,000 later, giving to Emil Tyden. Oscar Tyden and C.W. Clarke opportunity lo largely increase their slock holdings. From 1923. when Mr. Hill’s year contract expired, until 1929, lhe company did a splendid business, paid some dividends and added a considerable (amount] each year to its surplus. The year 1929 showed a marked decline in our business compared to previous years. This was especially true in the big centers, where the financial seers were trimming for an expected reaction from the over-expansion of credits; for they knew that pay-day and liquidation were jusi around the comer, and lhat a depression was sure to follow. Company’s trade shrinks Grand Rapids gamed th9 nickname ■‘Furniture City." ' ™s l,st printed in the Mayer & Co. furniture store advertise­ ment in the May 14- 1^33, Sunday Star (Washington, D.C.) provided evidence The list of “some of America’s finest" fur­ niture manufacturers is almost entirely Grand Rapids-area-based.A'cng with the Hastings Table Company, ^e Grand Rapids Bookcase and Chair Co. a|so was in Hastings, in the strip between Apple and State streets, where Wendy’s and Commercial Bank now stand. (Library of Congress image) Our profit was comparatively small in 1929 because of the toretd liquidation of debts that caused the depression to start that year, lhe Table Company’s trade shrank more in 1930 and 1931. By this time, it was dead) apparent to Mr Tyden *s associates lhat fftrfong. hard pull he had made to perfect die automatic machines on the Seal C ompany,his successful launching of the Consolidated ftrss and loot Company (now the E.W. Bliss Co. plan:), his difficult work for the Viking Corporation, as well as his successful efforts for the Table Company had taken their toll of his vitality, and that he was on the verge of a physical breakdown. The decline in the Table Company’s business called for still greater efforts on his pan. and Mr. Tyden’s associates in the business knew he ought not to attempt iodo what the situation called for. It was too much of a strain. While he was game, ready to nuke thc effort, they knew he ought never lo attempt it - that it would mean lhe ruin of his health. So, his associates urged Mr. Ty den to sell the Table Company, which was then in a strong position financially. It owed no money; had strong cash reserves; had large accounts receivable; had large stocks of lumber, veneer and other materials: and a good slock of finished goods and goods in process. It had a fine new power plant, ample buildings and equipment. I lis associates urged him to get rid of the business and save his health (Tyden was 64 at the time, and ultimately reached age 86|. They told him they were ready lo make any .sacrifices of their own interests in the Table Company that might be needed to gel lhe factory off his hands so he could recuperate, Mr. Tyden yielded to their entreaties, but did so reluctantly. His serious operation and long stay at the Battle Creek Sanitarium proved that his friends were right. Veto liquidation lb dispose of the business, the company could sell lhe materials and slock on hand and shut the plant, or it could find a purchaser. Mr. Tyden and his associates emphatically . vetoed liquidation and shutdown of the plants For the sake of the 125 to 150 employees and’ for thc sake of Hastings, the stockholders refused to consider liquidation, although if* would have netted easily $100,000 more than, wc sold the business for. But we wished to sell it to persons who would continue lo operate thc plant. Three men were considered who owned a controlling interest in lhe Widdicomb Furniture Co., of Grand Rapids, and sold the Continued next page HASTINGS FACTORY OUTPUT $4 MILLION Until (he late 1880s, Hastings had little in the way of factories, but residents and businessmen in lhe city pooled their money to attract manufacturing. The first three were the Wool Bool Company. Hastings Furniture Company (later Grand Rapids Bookcase Company) and thc Michigan Whip Company. Others soon followed; some failing and others still in existence today. The Jan. 6, 1926. Banner gave a glowing report on the status ot lhe local industries: In a talk al the Rotary Club Monday, Charles Potts gave some interesting facts with regard to the manufacturing situation in this city and concerning the factory’ in which he is largely interested, lhe Grand Rapids Bookcase Co. . According to Mr. Potts, the amount invested in carry ing on the manufacturing business in Hastings is well toward $3 million, and the annual output of factories of Hastings reaches the sum of $4 million. There are 850 employees, and about $95.000 per month is required fort the payrolls of lhe factories, or about $1.14 million per year, a large percentage of which is expended right here in Hastings. Mr. Potts spoke of the interest taken by the factories in encouraging home owning by their employees, and that is why the factories have been such boosters for the Hastings Building and Loan /kssocialion. He said of thc Bookcase employees. 100 are married men. and of these, 72 own their homes or are paying for their homes. This, he said, is due to the fact that so many of the men had worked for a long period of years for the Bookcase Co. and had been encouraged to»\ save their money and invest it in homes. Mr. Potts pointed out lhat of the 850 j employees of lhe factories, 628 are married men, and of these, 350 own or are paying for , homes, which is certainly a splendid showing.., Speaking of the Hastings Building and Loan Association. Mr. Potts, who is much interested in lhat institution, said that ’ organization is helping 35 people lo pay for^ their homes, and had loaned $55,000 to litem. ‘ He spoke of the Building and Loan Association as a Hastings institution, worthy of the heartiest support from all people who are j interested in Hastings, because of • encouragement and help it is giving to lhe , people to own their own homes. Anything that; encourages building and home owning in ' Hastings ought to be boosted by every man t who is interested in Hastings, declared Mr. * Potts. Mr. Potts spoke of an organization that includes 179 of the employees of the Grand ’ Rapids Bookcase Co. and the Sigler Player} Action Company (maker of player pianos], j which is a mutual benefit association. The members receive $ 1 per day for sick benefits .­ while incapacitated for work by sickness, and ’ a death benefit of $50 in case of thc death of j any member. Die annual dues are $450. Last f year, that organization paid out something • over $500 for sick benefits, and lhe year t before nearly $700. and in 1923 over $900. This is a splendid organization about which J the people of this city probably have known J very little, if anything at all. ; Did you know that you can read The Hastings Banner Demonstration and Sale off in an ELECTRONIC and PRINT edition? Hastings Dining Tables Special Features Tyden Leaf Lock Tyden Removable Top Tyden Pedestal Lock Steel Bearing Slides Nut znd Bolt Con­ struction Solid Tops Come and see a demonstration of the ‘ many features of a Hastings Dining Table and you will have no other. weekly updates HI I NEWS SPORTS COURT NEWS LEGALS MORE Hastings Dining Table, fumed or quartered golden oak 48-incli top, 6-foot extension. Choice of several patterns, $39.50. MmvV Scroll Base Hastings Table, 9-mch barrel, H-ctinszs Tarte in several designs- Has 54-inch top nnTextends to 6 feet. HpaVy pe^stal base, $46^0. hXsBaNNER --------------------- ~ qpvenlh Street, between D and E, Washington, D.C., Mayer’s furniture store, on ? ■ djnj lab|es in the Feb. 9. 1919. Evening announced demonstrations o ' Jtab,es according to the ad, are lhe Tyden Leaf Star. Among the special features " ' sljdes and the Tyden Removable Top. Lock, the Tyden Pedesfal Lock sfeei o a (Library of Congress image) (269) 945-9554 www.hastingsbanner.com �Page 8 — Thursday. October 22. 2020 - 1h« Haenngs Banner Q FSC to relaunch Kinship Services^ for adults raising relatives The Family Support Center of Barry County lias updated Kinship Services and r relaunching with a “Travel ami Treat ’ even 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25. This ‘‘dmcthrough” event will provide safe family un am! an opportunity to learn more inform®» about new and improved Kinship Services. Through Kinship Services, the H»nt»> Support Center provides various ‘ adults raising relatives* children. Kms P' P*y gramming includes family coaching am t. ’nee.m well as opportunities ><> " "" other Kinship families. imited Through crollabtrrationjv^h on Way. CareWell Services, the Comn_ Aging. Michigan Department o' ' < jt. . thp Family Support Center. licmvU-thnH-g wi|| )x, o(fcred f(lr srrf X* r'-’"(n,vc bulk of ji. K , large share ,^’1. whoi,|y’ h,,<l wld " several j "'Hable Company s output lor business ' »>cn »ho knew ,he fun"",re The, uc'IU,!l’ly. . . could keen? considered »s ,he ,”.c" *ho they knew £ T»ble Company.opc™';"8. tor knew its factory, knew tts custenters, was t„ 'cres. 3J knew Fred Hill, who have Chao,"1"’,1* with drem as designer and Mr. IXd?1"* Grand R»pids $»les. anyone coiiu? ’•’ought »’ dld> ha! lf these Were ? kc'P the Table Company going, ’he Table c„C "*n. He and his associates >n the c«nlpa "’’’P’ny all felt we sold our 'he best shape possible if we did ... k ‘n the company to them. So wc ^Iklteg-wl ^'working with other to i'i<‘ A.ldi<ion»l inlom>»<ion .nd staff inlttocin N' made at the safe Kinship Services lhe esent will he nt J । < Broadway. Hastings. Families can stay sate m their vehicles ns they enjoy thc fun. Costumes arc encouraged. RSVP would be appreciated to Jennifer^ famibsupportbarr.com or by calling 269-945­ 5439. Human Serv.ees Menial Health, fhornapple hem Ph Barry County Court Sjrtetn .nd thelt^ Not onlv'?1" P|1,nl ln "e ' 0 , bargain but we gave them such a 'hat kind 7'eve was never before given on wanted toh ’ ial'- W' did " beCaUSe WC here, and 2?' **’>•' Pl‘“” con,inUe 10 Opera,c Eaton District Health **P"!11' cd etnphaprogI»mwaSreM«H«J*dh“new^ 1 sis on services. mnvidc many Kin,hip Services ineludopportunittes for pan-nttn I spccialng a family specWized 'C<l speaKet' nc«>l ,.bjIl)h(xxj expert­ raining, such as aci c Thn u UaKcs to Hastings men. s’oek) couldytriof ,he S'60’0"0 pockets bv f>>r >' oUI of 'he,r own Urick ass?. C0 |tc|ing the Table Company’s assets left ? have over $88,000 quick the $->ao ,he purchasers also could own unnnnufa , of '“mber manufactured and St and als0 ,hC 52,961 °f sessions Will be ofTetvd as Un Tit hTfe »> '»«»'face ^addition, a family educator will provide Luidancc on navigating processes such as bHHS Specialized Education Services and the courts- Referrals for additional services, Lch as Wraparound, counseling. CRIB nlint plant, vak- „„i '^•’"manufacturing plant has little ’ wi” u ? 11 ’’ in use. But this plant was worth the tnventa^^ price if the plant could be operated protiIably " ... the reason we gave them such a bargain was lK-cause we believed these Grand Rapids men could and \sOu)d oper3te Lhe plant. We c 1 Ye । tlonc wcH with thc Table Company, and had received enough on our investments ‘n We Wcre willing to sacrifice thc 81(H).(Mio more wc might have made had we liquidated and closed the plant. We all lived in Hastings, and we wanted this factory to keep going for the sake of its employees and for thc benefit of our city. Depression hurts I feel that this statement is due to clear up any misunderstanding about why the Tabic Company was sold.... I will not discuss why the Table Company failed after it was taken over by the Grand Rapids gentlemen further than to mention what we all know, that the depression has been hard on lheentire furniture industry. I do not know why the purchasers failed, so I have no right to discuuthat matter 1 cannot helps feeling of sadness when I pass by thc Tablcfifory. 1 think what a busy plant it was for sevfci years. It was too bad to have its carver rii»ts it did. Stantons to celebrate 60th wedding anniversary I - -Q MR'-. • ' tS- 1 I - J'■ Marriage '< licenses p Norman and Arlene Stanton will be celebrating their 60th anniversary Oct. 30. 2020. । Due to the current conditions, please join us in a Card Shower to celebrate. Address: 3813 Baldwin Rd.. Hastings, Ml 49058. % » Lori Lynn Koomdyk, Middleville and Scott (Allen Hinds, Crawfordsville, IN | Brandy Kay Neff, Nashville and James jDanny Capers, Nashville J Jacob Michael Johnson. Hastings and Ushlcy An Norton, Hastings • Michelle Lynn Silsbee. Nashville and lArthur Aldrick Westby. Nashville J Erin Mary Scheidel. Middleville and famuel Edward Lehouiller. Battle Creek * Joshua Caleb Wix. Bellevue and Lacey JElizabcth Cobb, Bellevue » Naomi Marie Fillingham. Plainwell and £achary Michael Cody. Plainwell ! Clay Allen Buysse, Hastings and Sophia Jlcan Fischer, Hastings » Tomika Jcnae Van Ravensway, Middleville «nd Jessica Nicole Presley. Middleville » Matthew Jacob Sonicksen. Kalamazoo and fchristy Lynn Root, Bellevue J Faustino garcia Santana, Hastings and ^faria Isabel Carreno. Hastings wh- c'^nee claim and the entire which aft <85,784 had been deP^,S,00d« Slo­ Program, food assistance and others, also can i contig COMPW p?eJNd f'°m prev,QUs page------- Gordon Bennett to celebate 80th birthday Sources: Hanings ChroniclingAnericu2oc£om, Congress. ’ Source: USAFacts.org Barry-Eaton District Health Department Is seeking applicants for 3 DISEASE INVESTIGATOR POSITIONS These are full-time positions that include evening and weekends and offer a flexible work schedule. http://wMM.banyeatonhealth.org Competitive pay and hfnefits BEDHD is an equal opportunity employer- City of Hastings Vote Nov. 3 important notice Regarding the Riverside Cemetery ;Iozxatnsy keep, please remove them noV9’ ^FRIDAY NOVEMBER 13, 2020. All it ° ’ater than FRIDAY day will bo removed and di^ S ,eft out atter t staff. opos^ofby Cemetery FIND VOTER INFORMATION AT dailyyonder.com/vote Paid for by the nonpartisan Center for Rural Strategies (269)918-2003 f Caregivers must also car (financially) for themselves H you re a caregiver, pos­ sibly for a loved one dealing with an illness such as Alzhei­ mer s disease, you’re probably already facing some signifi­ cant emotional and physical challenges - so you don’t need any financial ones as well. Yet. they are difficult to avoid. What steps can you take to deal with them? First of all, you may be in­ terested in knowing the scale of the problem. Consider these numbers from the Alzheimer’s Association: About 5.8 million Americans ages 65 and older are living wilh Alzheimer’s dis­ ease, and in 2019. caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s or other dementias contribut­ ed more than 18 billion hours ot unpaid care - worth about $244 billion in services. Fur­ thermore, about two-thirds of caregivers are women, and onethird of dementia caregivers are daughters. But whatever your gender or relationship to the individu­ als for whom you’re providing care, you can take some steps to protect your own financial future. Here are a few sugges­ tions: • Evaluate your employ­ ment options. If you have to take lime away from work - or even leave employment alto­ gether - to be a caregiver, you will lose not only income but aLo the opportunity to con­ tribute to an IRA and a 40 l(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan. But you may have some options, such as working remotely, or at least working part time. Either ar­ rangement can give you flex­ ibility in juggling your em­ ployment with your caregiving responsibilities. • Explore payment possi­ bilities for caregiving. De­ pending on your circumstances, and those of thc loved one* for whom you’re providing care, you might be able to work out an arrangement in which you can get paid something for your services. And as long as you are earning income, you can con­ tribute lo an IRA lo keep build­ ing resources for your own re­ tirement. • Protect your financial interests - and those of your loved ones. You may well want to discuss legal matters with the individual for whom you arc a caregiver before Alzhei­ mer’s robs them of the abili­ ty to think clearly. Il may be beneficial to work with a legal professional to establish a fi­ nancial power of attorney - a document that names someone to make financial decisions and pay bills when the person with AlzJieimer’s no longer can. Dr. Universe: Why da we get pins and needles when we don’t move for a long time? Jocelyn, 9 For information on this position and to complete an application, visit our website at is on the ballot. 3H7 E. Grs»en St, Sto. 1 Hastings, Ml 49058 And whether you or someone else hxi financial power of at­ torney, the very existence of this document may help you avoid getting your personal fi­ nances entangled with those of the individual for whom you re caring. , . .t • Keep making the ngnt financial moves. As long as you’re successful at keeping your own finances separate from those of your loved one, you mav be able to conunue making the financial moves that can help you make progress to­ ward your own goals. For ex­ ample, avoid taking on more debts than you can handle. Also, try to maintain an emer­ gency fund containing three to six months’ worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid account. Of course, these tasks will be much easier if you can maintain some type of employment or gel paid for your caregiving services. There’s nothing easy about being a caregiver. But by mak­ ing the right moves, you may be able, al thc least, to reduce your potential financial burden and brighten your outlook. This article war written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC Fms°aoi]d]°GD@@(dit]es strategy *This position requires a Bachelor’s Degree and is for a period of 6-months. Covid-19 Kevin Beck,AAJWS$ 400 W. Stile St., Suite B Hastings, Ml ^9058 (269) 945-4702 Brandon Wilkins Banner, Library of Gordon Bennett of Hastings will celebrate his 80th birthday on Monday, October 26th. I Gordy is quite the man about town, so if you see him please wish him a great day. No big party is planned due to thc pandemic, just a quiet dinner with family- More than 7,200 Michiganders have died from Covid-19. Financial FOCUS If you are interested In further H tact the City of Hastings (te|65etails, please con945-2468 or TDD call relav ?h°n* number 269­ 3777). y S*n/iCGs V800-649- Jane M.Saunnan City Clerk Dear Jocelyn, If you’ve ever had a leg or an arm “fall asleep,’’ the nerves in your brain and body were sending you an important message. Thai’s what 1 found out from my friend Darrell Jackson, a researcher at Washington State University who studies how drugs affect the nervous system. The nervous system is made up of bun­ dles of nerve fibers that help humans think, feel and navigate the world. These nerves also help people sense things like tempera­ ture. vibrations, pressure and pain. Jackson said you may feel “pins and nee­ dles’’ when your nen es get loo compressed or squished down. We call this experience paresthesia (pear-ES-thcesha). It takes something called mechanical energy lo compress the nerves. This energy might be lhe pressure from your head rest­ ing against your hand during a nap or the pressure on your legs while sitting criss­ cross-applesauce. When the nerves feel this pressure, they activate a kind of electrical energy. That’s right, you are full of electricity. The body and brain use electrical signals to send information to each other. The nerves in your tingling leg. arm, fool or hand, can send information along your spinal cord, which stretches from the lower back to the brainstem. “From there, you are relaying the mes­ sage from the spinal cord to an area of lhe brain called the diencephalon,” Jackson said. The message continues on to a section of your brain called lhe somatosensory cortex. It’s here lhat you actually become aware, or perceive, that your leg is tingling or lhat your hand feels like it’s full of sand. “Once you get up and you start moving around, you’ll get information immediate­ ly," Jackson said. All of this information moves through lhe brain and body really fast — about 11,679 feet per second. That’s like running nine laps around a standard running track in a single second. When the body senses this tingling pain, it activates another pathway in the body. The brainstem helps send information back down to the spinal cord to make lhe body less painful and less tingly. If you compress your nerves for too long, it can damage your ability to sense the world. The pins-and-needles feeling can be a useful strategy to protect your nerves and keep you healthy. Our nerves are really important, and there are more than 7 trillion in lhe human body. Jackson reminded me our nerves not only help us sense pain but also play a big role in the reason why we have memories. Jackson said one unsolved mystery about the brain is exactly how humans store their memories. Scientists are still really curious about it. But that’s a question for another time. The next time you experience paresthe­ sia, maybe you will remember something you learned from investigating this very question. Maybe you will take a moment to remember all lhe amazing things your body and brain do for you each day. 7 Dr. Universe Do you have a question? Ask Dr Lmverse Send an email to Washington Su.e Un^rs.tys res.de,,, scienlis, and -’du or visit her website, askdruniverse.com. BibleStudyOffe .com �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. October 22, 2020 — Page 9 Rutland discusses spending $1.55,000 from new road millage Me Bates The Rutland cS'7 k. focused on road repmrs andL°'MlSh,p Boa,d Oct 14 meeting. ’ and dust control at its llw new road inilhme . voters m August - win ,ipprove<i b> $155,000 per year inl'! bnnp nn estimated repairs over fix e years * t0Wnsh,p for nwd director Brad ,nani8in« manager Jake Welch prestnt^ °^rations recommendations for h i ? pac^cl with spend Ihat ™ Sh0“ld miwk in i*-r. u cou,d best preserve the SS51XX) f<>ur.yenr°^'1jh'P|in ad<tolon '»'he already has in place d P'an the ‘0*ndlV The main topic of discussion was dust SYNOPSIS Hastings Charter Township All board members present, Approved all consent agenda items Resolution 2020-05 2021 Selanes Consent agenda SYNOPSIS PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP Regular Meeting October 14, 2020 Supervisor Sionebumer called the meeting to order at 6 30 p.m. Present: Clerk Goebel. Treasurer Pence. Supervisor Stonebumer, Trustee VanNiman & Trustee Borden. Agenda and September 9. 2020 Minutes were approved. Public comments, if any. were received. Fire, Po\ce and Parks Department reports wore placed on Lie. Supervisor, Treasurer, Trustees and Clerk's Report's were received. Approved paying bills. $27,540 36 Fire Chief Oath of Ctf ce Approved purchase of too's for First Responders Approved dcnaiion of used extrication equ pmenL Approved lake weed assessments. Approved proposal from Appraisals Pius Group Inc. Approved distnbuoon of Master Pian for review. Pubic eommen’.s and Board comments were repented. . Meeting adjourned at 7.35 p.m 149627 Notico of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236. MCL 600 3212, that lhe fol'owing mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sa'e to the highest b’dder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM. on November 12. 2020. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater cn the day of sale. Placing the highest bid a! the sale does not automalica'ly entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership cf the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds . office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information; Name(s) of the mortgagcr(s): Ronald J. Hermenitt and Ruby M. Hcrmen.lt. husband and wife Original Mortgagee: Dlcch Financial LLC FKA Green Tree Servicing LLC FMJK CONSECO FINANCE SERVICING CORP Foreclosing Assignee (if any). New Rez LLC dba Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing Date of Mortgage. Juno 13, 2000 Date of Mortgage Recording: June 21. 2000 Amount claimed due cn date of notice: $85,589 81 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michigan, and described as. That Part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 20. Town 2 North. Range 10 West, described as: Commencing at the Northeast comer of said Section: thence South 89 degrees 59 minutes West 1009.17 feet along the North line of said Northeast 1/4 to the Centerline of Lindsey road; thence South 08 degrees 17 minutes 30^seconds West 33 35 feet along said Centert.no to the place of beginning, lhenco North 89 degrees 59 minutes East 233.00 feet; thence South 08 degrees 17’ minutes 30 seconds West 220.00 feet thence South 89 degrees 59 minutes West 233.00 feet; thence North 08 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds East 2209 feet srs m. ^eredemp^pertS shall he 6 date of such sale, unless determined abandonedI in _ nxr'i MO 3241a- or if the subject accordance with MCL uju a. u . ' real property is used for agricultural purposes New computer purchase Snowplowing rates Trustee resignation letter SWBCSA Board representative appointment Adjourned at 6:49 pm Submitted by Deborah Jackson, Clerk Attested to by Mark S. Fe’dpausch, Supervisor we’d get five jVe to dily _ it just was n01/0" ,.v Jam Last year, we had P* >ngJe applet control here. Doing om ^hips is nol abnormal to oth without rtl rcnuniy.M Umberg noted'^ck an^Unp. the township tn‘lsI 1 what repairs to PursllC . Larnbem . The board f*. *] quote . ^Ich to review an additto • duq Conlro] Luke French^ -ACDBYCdj Resolution draft for Hood Plain insurance Approved payment of bills Dept, repons received and put on file Motion to a^ourn 7:57 pm Respectfully submitted, Anita S. Menneli - Clerk Attested to by Jim Brown - Supervisor 149766 while other J duality* multiple applications. HV‘ 0| duy jJ^vcrsus multiple apP,,tv ..jthcr and is t||i ” M often depends on the ^’fiicult to predict. zpfltrols a jr •’Mother was pan of v Welch said. T1’1dry for f0 b c for dust control and 'v0U’ nf ruin in lv *«*ks and Prairieville Township swears in new fire chief Synopsis Hope Township Regular Board meeting Oct 12,2020 Meeting opened at 6:30pm Regular Mooting October 13,2020 Meeting cai'ed to order at 7:00 p.m. Submitted by. Rod Goebel, Clerk control. a process through which calcium chloride and magnesium chloride suppress dust on the roads by attracting moisture from the air.This allows those who live along dusty roads to have a better quality of life and can help preserve roads. Lamberg said. The report indicated it would cost the township $20,028 lor two applications of dust control along the township’s 33.38 miles of gravel roads. “Dust control is very expensive.” Lamberg told the board. “Whether it saves enough to justify the expense is always a great question that everybody’s out wilh. But there is a quality of life benefit and it docs help preserve thc road.’’ Welch said about six townships in Barry County do a single application of dust control. 149506 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENTS ESTATE RLE NO. 20-28617-DE Estate of Bucky P. Green. Date of birth: 12-13­ 1975. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Bucky P. Green, d.ed 8-22-2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will bo forever barrod unless presented to Juno W. Rose, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court St., ft 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date ot publication of this notice. Date: 10/13/2020 James R. Wierenga P48946 99 Monroe Ave. NW, Suite 1210 Grand Rapids, Ml 49503 616-454-3883 Juno W. Rose 4166 92nd Street Caledonia, Ml 49316 616-260-4509 149532 Notice ol Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212, lhat the foliowing mortgage will bo foreclosed by a safe of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to tho highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1:00 PM, on October 29, 2020. Tho amount duo on the mortgage may bo greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sate does not automatically entitle the purchaser lo free and clear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register cf deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Edward L Werner, single and Debra L Hill, single Original Mortgagee: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for GMAC Mortgage Corporation., its successors and assigns Foreclosing Assignee (if any): Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB, d/b/a Christiana Trust, not individually but as trustee for Pretium Mortgage Acquisition Trust Dato of Mortgage: December 20,2005 Date of Mortgage Recording: January 6,2006 Amount claimed due on date of notice: $62,227.39 Description of lhe mortgaged premises: Situated In Township of Hope, Barry County, Michigan, and described as: Beginning at the Northeast comer of the South 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 10­ 2-9 at the West side of M43 HWY R/W South along the West side R/W 370 feet to the beginning, South along R/W 10 RD West 16 Rods, North 10 rods, East to tho beginning. Common street address (if any): 5328 S M 43 Hwy, Hastings, Ml 49058-9237 The redemption period shall be 1 year from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned In accordance with MCL 600.3241a. If tho property is sold at foreclosure sale under Staff Writer Robert Pence, a i^ngtitnc Prairieville Township firefighicr’ ,s l°Wnship’s new fire chief. . . Pence was sworn Luring an in-person township meeting la*1 Wednesday, “Bob has been involved with our fire department for many years. Supervisor Jim Stonebumer told board members. “It is very appropriate he [Pence] is sworn in here, in front of this crowd, so he can gel a bit of thc recognition he deserves,” he added. Pence succeeds former chief Richard Garrison, who retired earlier this year. “I certainly appreciate the efforts you’ve put in in thc past, and I look forward to working with you in the future,’’ Stoneburner told Pence. One of the first announcements Pence made as chief was that officer Brian Uridge had been named assistant chief. “He’s been with the department several years as an officer. He brings a wealth of ability and knowledge, and I think he’ll do a good job for the department.” Pence said. Pence said lhe department had 23 calls to service in September. In other business, Pence asked board members to approve .sjxWing $711 for the purchase of a new ambolance lift. This would be in addition to a new lift purchased by a resident who was treated by department officials over lhe summer. After being treated. Pence said, the man expressed an interest in buying an ambulance lift fc>r thern- Now’lhc former patient has agreed to donate S806 so the department can buy a new lift. Pence said thc original plan was to obtain one lift. But he decided to ask the board for second smaller and less-expensive unit. "We’re so shorthanded, and the way this thing lifts, if there are only two of us, we should be able to get a smaller person up with one of these lifts,” Pence said. “People don’t really have handles, and the ones that they got, they don’t like us to use.” After he got approval for the new equipment, he asked board members to OK thc township donating some of its old equipment. Used extrication gear is taking up a lot of space in one of the trucks, he said, so he and his officers decided they would try to sell it. Uridge posted the equipment online and got one response: An offer for $450. The offer came from a retired fire chief in Raton, N AL, Pence said. The man wrote a letter, saying he buys old fire equipment, fixes it up and then donates it to fire departments near him. He added that the Prairieville Township equipment would go to the Colfax County. N.M., Rapid Response team. “Four hundred and fifty dollars isn’t that much.” Pence told board members, so he proposed donating the equipment instead. The board approved his request. In other business, the board: • Approved spending $36,550 for a driveby review of one-third of township parcels. • Agreed to review the township’s 5-year master plan for discussion at a lalcr meeting • Paid $27,540 in monthly bins • Assessed the full amounts for weed control on Pine and Upper Crooked lakes Upper Crooked lakefront-lot owners will nav $172 and back-lot owners win pay S86 Lake lakefront-lot owners win pay back-lot owners will pa} $33. from Advantage Dust Control and decided to table the discussion until next month’s meeting. The board noted lhat Rick Argo Sr., a for­ mer police officer, has recently been hired as a code enforcement officer to ensure compli­ ance with the township's ordinances and zon­ ing laws. Argo began working Oct. 14 and will be on duty form 10 am. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays. Argo is avail­ able lo receive complaints by calling lhe township hall: Argo’s extension is 11. Rebecca Harvey, a planning consultant, was unanimously approved by the board to help put together a marijuana ordinance for the township. Haney created a marijuana proposal for the township, but no action has been taken yet. Harvey is also a planning con- • redemption penod Attention homeowner aro m|Wary sefYice tf\m, period of active duty Dateofnot.ce October 15. 2020 redemption period. Attention liomeownec If you aro a military service GET ALL THE member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you havo been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for tho party foreclosing the mortgago at news of Barry the telephone number stated In Oils notico. This notice is from a debt collector. Dato of notico: October 1,2020 Trott Lew PC. sUllo 146 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Farmington Hills, Ml 463>» Trott Law, P.C. (248)642-2515 1422979 f10-T5)(11-05) the mortgage foreclosure sate or to tho mortgage holder for damaging the property during tho 31440 Northwestern Hwy, Suite 145 149194 Farmington H»lls, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 Call 269-945^®*- 1422113 (10-01)(10-22) COUNTS Subscribe to Hastings Banner 148315 for more inforteation. ’ j ' •» * ’/ ' x r - - ‘ Woman sustains minor injuries, is arrested A 29-year-old Middleville woman was taken to a hospital with minor injuries before she . was arrested for operating while intoxicated. She reportedly crashed a vehicle on M-37 Highway near Finkbeiner Road in Thomapplc Township at 3:01 a.m. Oct. 10. When first responders arrived, the woman was trapped in the vehicle and needed to be extricated. She said she had swerxrcd to avoid a deer, went off the road, rolled the vehicle and knocked down a tree. She had a 0.158 blood alcohol content. Husband arrested for stalking, OWI A 44-year-old Flat Rock woman called police at 6:23 pan. Oct. 9 to report her husband, 56, of Ann Arbor, was stalking her and had stolen her clothes and fishing pole. The woman was slaying at Indian Valley Campground and said her husband, from whom she is sepa­ rated, tracked her there from /Xnn Arbor. Police located lhe man nearby, based on a descrip­ tion of his vehicle. He admitted to stealing the items and said he was upset about the impending divorce. He had a 0.18 BAC and said he drinks a pint of liquor a day. He was arrested on his second operating while intoxicated offense. Police still searching for stolen vehicle A 54-year-old Bellevue man reported his vehicle stolen from lhe 7000 block of Wolf Road in Assyria Township at 10:06 p.m. Oct. 11 .The man said he was having an argument with a 28-year-old Battle Creek woman when she got in his light blue Scion and drove off. Officers were unable to locale the woman, and lhe man said she probably went to Baltic Creek. The woman does not have a valid license. The case remains under investigation. Woman dodges scamming attempt A 72-year-old Plainwell woman called police Oct. 6 to report she was the target of a phone scam. She said someone who claimed to be with Amazon called het and said she i would be charged $40 unless she filled out some forms on her computer with her personal information. After lhe woman filled out the forms, the caller told her she had been given $2 J99 by mistake, and she would need to pay it back. The caller said he would be fired and threatened to call the police if she didn’t pay it back using gift cards. The Plainwell woman refused and called the police. She checked with her bank and had not received $2399. Assault suspect remains at large A 47-year-old Nashville man called police at 7:11 p.m. Oct. 4 saying he had been the victim of an assault in the 100 block of West Sherman Street. The victim said he had accused a 45-year-old Nashville man of stealing his lawn mower, then called him a racial slur. The suspect became angry' at the slur, punched him three times in the face, then stomped on his stomach while he was on the ground, the 47-year-old said. He refused medical attention. The suspect is still at huge. Both men are white. PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE NOTICE OF INTENT (POSSIBLE) TO USE A VIRTUAL PLATFORM FOR PUBLIC HEARING TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF PRAI­ RIEVILLE, BARRY COUNTY. MICHIGAN. AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will bo held on November 12, 2020 commencing at 7:00 p.m. at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Rd., Delton Ml, 49046 within the Township, as required under the provisions of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act and the Zoning Ordinance for the Township. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to any State of Michigan legislative chang­ es to the Open Meetings Act, the Township Planning Commission may hold its meeting (including public hearing) electronically, in order to limit In person government activities, to protect critical infrastructure workers to the extent possible. If the meeting is held electronically, information to electronically attend the meeting will be posted on the Town­ ship's website at httpLZAvww.prairieviiletwp-mi.org. In addition to participation during an electronically held public hearing, members of the public may also provide comments for the Planning Commission's consideration by emailing or mailing those comments to the Planning Commission for receipt prior to tho meeting, in care of the Township Zoning Ad­ ministrator. Eric Thompson (gthsnmyngPAimi^orp) or by leaving a phone message prior to the meeting with tho Township Zoning Administrator, Eric Thompson at 269-948-4088. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that lhe item(s) to be considered at said pub­ lic hearing Include, in brief, the following: 1 A request from Gias Associates on behalf of property owner, Joel & Shannon Carr 15431 S M-43 Hwy, Hickory Corners, Ml 49323, for a Special Land Use/ Sito Plan Review to allow for tho construction of a detached accessory structure failing to meet the required setbacks and maximum building size requirements pursuant to section 4.20 “Accessory Structures”. Tho subject sdo is located at 15431 S. M-43 Hwy., Parcel ff 08-12-036-043-00 and is currently zoned R-2 Residential. 2 Such other business as may property come before the Planning Commission. Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600.3278 tho borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at • . sulfant for lhe City of Hastings. Thc board rescinded the appointment of a custodian to oversee the vacant township property at 1891 W. State Road. Thc Federal Emergency Management Agency bought the properly by proxy through the township and controls what happens there. live township had been sending a custodian to check on the’ property once a month. However, because the' property is designated as a wetland, FEMA requires that it be kept in a natural state and cannot be mowed. “It has to be kept in its natural state because it’s a wetland,” township Clerk Robin,’ Hawthorne said. The Prairieville Township Planning Commission and Township Board reserve the right to make changes in tho above-mentioned proposed amendment(s) at or following the public hearing. ah interested persons are invited to be present at the aforesaid time and place, or, if an electtonic meeting is held, to participate via the electronic meeting. • • If. T^nchin will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and servees, lo 4 fPfa7h debilities aUhe hearing upon four (4) days' prior notice to the Township Clerk. Individuals with ™‘bjl.tjes requjring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township Cierk at the'a'ddresvor telephone number listed below. PRAIRIEVIUI township PLANNING COMMISSION By: Myron Kox, Chairperson Prairieville Township Hall 11015 S. Nofris Rd. Delton, Michigan 49046 (269) 795-9091____________ �Pao» ’0 — Thursday. October 22, 2020 — Th« HatrlW Bannor raise funds for Family Promise Yo«th" AF,try Comn’onlty „ during |h ''«ry Com*'1 collect“l $-170 fundroisefVxirteir, ’<>'h nnnual ’”of 5,1 Stndcm.''M.-iy. „ , donation Nil |<Kal high shoots collected Middlevi ,c "> downtowd »ns"n£ i">tl will go to p. ““’ing rhe morn-ng. Proceeds "“"Profit 1 ft™ni« <’f Barry County, a and men^riuion lh:» pro”4*" homeless,] > to fan>'l'cs nsk for YAC Cis> Buoy Co^ l,,Ur>ded in 1997 :,n!‘ind1U^,s Through th? ,Ou'h between age 13 and 21. phitanthroniP'n«n«n. participants leant about review ,"?• '»kc part in service projects, leant lead] >°'e g*11*' aPPllca"ons- a,l<1 To dat.ff Aills. , SSM.OOO 'YAC has collected more than youth in 10 Pr0Jcc,s bcncf'«'ng YAcS?" ma>""tdl he scnl via.n,ail 10 ,hc Broadw^yuCo,",nunity Foundation. 231 S. y- flings. Ml 49058. Motions -students Gavin Ration, Luke Richards. Molly Ration, Julia McLean and Grayson Panon «’,lec’ contributions In downtown Hastings Saturday morning. Hastings students Gavin Patton and Grace Green encourage donations in down town Hastings. SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Social Security announces new online video hearings The Social Security Administration has announced a new service for people awaiting a hearing decision. in addition to telephone hearings, Social Security will offer the opportunity for an online video hearing using the Microsoft learns platform,beginning this fall. This new free service will allow applicants and their representatives (0 participate in the hearings from anywhere they have access to a cameraenabled smartphone, tablet, or computer. This stable and secure online platform allows the Social Security judge to sec and interact with applicants and their representatives, just like in an in-person hearing, while maintaining privacy of thc claimant’s infonnation. Other hearing experts, such as medical or vocational experts, may Delton Kellogg High School students Kitara Chase and Evelyn Zettelmaier collect donations in front of the Walldorff Brewpub Saturday. 3" BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ROLL CLOVERDALE, WILKINSON, JONES (MUD) LAKES AQUATIC PLANT CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DIST. 2020-2 TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF HOPE TOWNSHIP. BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Township Supervisor and Assessor have prepared and hied in the office of the Township Clerk for public examination a special assessment roll covering all properties within the Cloverdale, Wilkinson, Jones (Mud) Lakes Aquatic Plant Control Special Assessment District No. 2020-2 benefited by the proposed aquatic plant control project. The roll has been prepared for the purpose of assessing the costs of the project within the aforesaid special assessment district, which district is more particularly shown on the plans on file with the Township Clerk. The costs of the project are as shown on the estimate of costs on file with the Township Clerk at the Township Hall, 5463 S M-43 Hwy, Hastings, Michigan. The project cost is $335,580, which is the amount to be collected by special assessment. The amount assessed against each property in the district will be $408.00 per year for front lots and $204.00 per year for back lots. If extra funds are available at the end of the term of the special assessment, the Township Board reserves the right to levy an assessment of a lesser amount in the final year or to authorize the carry-over of surplus funds to a new special assessment district. offices remain closed to the public to protect the health and safety of the public and employees. The agency’s administrative law judges have conducted more than 180,000 telephone hearings since March, allowing the agency to continue to deliver critical customer service. For the new online video hearings, whether lhe device is a laptop, smartphone or tablet on either iPhone or Android, people will experience a clear picture and audio of the administrative law judge and their representative during their hearing. Updates on the implementation and expansion of this new hearing service and other Social Security information can be found on thc agency’s COVID-19 web page, socialsecurity.gov/coronavirus/. Attorney general warns of scam package delivery texts 119619 HOPE TOWNSHIP participate, as well. “The CO VID-19 pandemic has highlighted lhe importance of finding new ways to serve the public,” Social Security Commissioner Andrew Saul said. “For over a decade, the agency has used video hearings to get applicants their hearing decisions sooner. This advancement builds on that effort, making it easier and more convenient to attend a hearing remotely, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. To continue to ensure all participants’ safety, we expect online video hearings and telephone hearings will be the only two hearing options for the foreseeable future.” Social Security has been conducting appeal hearings with administrative law judges via telephone since March, while The term of the special assessment will be five years, 2020 through 2024 inclusive. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Supervisor and Assessor have further reported to the Township Board that the assessment against each parcel of land within said district is such relative portion of the whole sum levied against all parcels of land in said district as the benefit to such parcels bears to the total benefit to all parcels of land in said district PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Board will meet at the Hope Township Hall 5463 S M-43 Hwy, Hastings, Ml on Tuesday, November 10, 2020 at 7:00 p.m., for the purpose of reviewing the special assessment roll, hearing any objections thereto and confirming the roll as submitted or revised or amended. Meeting/public hearing attendees will be required to wear masks (if able) and to comply with social distancing requirements regarding COVID 19. Please n0^ce that if Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel Monday reissued a consumer alert on text message scams to warn Michiganders lo watch for an uptick in these attempts to obtain personal information. Most recent complaints report that these texts appear from unfamiliar phone numbers pretending to be package delivery notices from Amazon. FedEx or other services. “What we know for certain is that bad actors will stop at nothing to obtain our personal information, and it is important that we all stay on alert.” Nessel said. “If you are expecting a package and you receive a text message from an unrecognizable number, independently verify the origin first. Contact the company you purchased from or the individual who sent you the package. Clicking on the links in these phony texts can provide a gateway for scammers to download malware onto your phone, or lo trick you into entering passwords, credit card details, or other personal information that can be used to commit fraud.” The recent text messages use similar language and look like this: ~ “FedEx: shipment 71206 update: on the way. Click here: c7fsvinfo/oToaiibv6A. (using different numbers and links in the message)” Others address the recipient by name, claiming to be an "urgent notice about your USPS package" that’s been wailing for them from a slated date, along wilh a link - for example: "Jessica, urgent notice about your USPS package 3K9355 from 04/10/2020. Proceed to m4svk jnfo/UENAnGm4zh’’ Earlier versions of this scam contained a link promising information about a missing package belonging to the consumer, or to "claim delivery'” about a pending package delivery. Regardless of the message. Attorney General Nessel said individuals who get a text message from an unfamiliar phone number about a package delivery should immediately, delete the message, block the number, and not respond or click on any links. "If you think the message may be legitimate, call the delivery company directly using a phone number you know you can verify,” she said. The Federal Trade Commission suggests three ways to report unwanted text messages: • Report it on thc messaging app. Look for the option to report junk or spam. • AT&T. T-Mobile, Verizon or Sprint subscribers can copy the message and forward, it to 7726 (SPAM), free of charge. • Report it online to the Federal Trade Commission. Additional resources can be found on the AG’s consumer protection webpage. the Township is otherwise authorized to undertake such meeting/public hearing virtually, it will likely opt to undertake such meeting via ZOOM video conference and instructions for accessing such meeting will be posted on the Township's website at com Please contact the undersigned or consult the township's website for the most up-to-date information. w hopetwp. —'— The roll may be examined at the office of the Township Clerk during regular business days of regular bus ess days until the time of the hearing and may further be examined at the hearing. Any person objecting to the assessment roll h II file his/her objections in writing with the Township Clerk before the close of the hearing or within such other time as the TownsWp Board may PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that appearance and protest at the hearing |n thc ssment proceedings Is required in order to appeal the amount of the special assessment to the Michigan Tax Tribunal ?Pec,al 3$S<? arty in interest, or his or her agent, may appear at the hearing to protest the special assessment in writing, or may fi|e °wnef °r P-rance and protest by letter before the hearing, and in that event, appearance at the public hearing shall not be requi^her PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that after the public hearing, the Township Board . h roll as submitted or as revised or amended; may provide by resolution for payment of special assessments with inter C°n^frn 1 e jje by resolution for payment of special assessments In full before a date certain; and may provide by resolution for rna'r >r$ as are permitted by law with regard to special assessment for aquatic plant control projects. Uc^ other ma e PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that if a special assessment is confirmed at or foMo b)ic hearing, a property owner or any person having In interest In the real property specially assessed may fi|e a ln® *he above PJ* special assessment with the Michigan Tax Tribunal within 30 days after confirmation of the special assessment00 appea ° roll. Hope Township will provide necessary, reasonable auxiliary aids and services to Individuals with dlsah < • „ upon seven (7) days’ notice to the Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed be|0at the he3r 8 HOPE TOWNSHIP Deborah Jackson, Clerk 5463 S M-43 Highway Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-2464 hODelwpcl@mei.net Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Rusinew Service* bur Rent BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements, power washing. 269-320-3890. DELTON, MICHIGAN- SE­ NIOR Subsidized housing tor people who arc 62-vears and older with certain income restrictions. 1-bedroom apart­ ments available. Non-smok­ ing, secured facility. Close to downtown Delton. Call for more information at 269-623­ 4000 or TI Y National Relay 711. Equal Housing Oppor­ tunity. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793, MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale sprats, etc. Call 269-801-7506. /‘or Sale CARRON SPORT AIR Hock­ ey Table. S300.1X1OBO. Phone 269-908-1654____________ __ KASSON 10FT OAK Pool Table, excellent condition. $1,000.00 or OBO. 269-908­ 1654 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: Al: teal estate it ilicpd to tuadicap, faftt-iuj the ’ fr-’U an) lv.h woitrAuti^ryj ,a‘ ihtljrca voJrr f Mith puenrs «x ]<•->] srxsxf! ” -1 •* lo lepert I .ur >L> aim < O'* Ik lU DMI Ue £ 1 616 451 lhe h- •utr '•. yvphone number f, ' ,nS k;,.jWMrr<I „ i.xoo.927.0275 �Thu Hastings Banner — Thursday October 22, 2020 — Page if Saxons start homecoming festivities by crowning roy Tho 2°2°^s^rrO||, Ma^001 homecoming court includes (from left) Corbin Ulrich, Kevin Anders, Austin Bleam, Jesse Hunt] Seniors Corbin Ulrich and Hannah Slaughter are the 2020 Hastings High School homecoming king and queen. (Photo by Sophie Bates) Sophie Bates Staff Writer ■ Despite missing out on several homecom­ ing traditions because of COVID-19, students at Hastings High School were able to kick off homecoming week, have an abbreviated homecoming celebration, and revel in a foot­ ball victory Friday evening. With rules for the Michigan High School Athletic Association limiting seating capacity in stadiums during football games, the Hastings student council — which generally organizes homecoming events — had not planned on having a homecoming football game this year. However, a MHSAA update that went into effect Oct. 9 allowed stadiums to be at 30 percent seating capacity for up to 1,000 spec­ tators at football games. Prior to the update, only two spectators per athlete were allowed in the stands for games. Once the update went into effect, Hastings only had one home football game left: Oct. 16 against Coldwater. With only a week to spare, the student council hastily made plans for homecoming. While normally thc football game is the culmination of homecoming spir­ it week, due to the last-minute nature of this change, the football game instead kicked off spirit week this year. Athletic Director Michael Goggins said. With increased capacity in the stadium, thc high school marching band also had its first opportunity to perform at a game, and many more students were able to attend the home­ coming game, where homecoming king and queien were crowned. The homecoming court included Kevin /knders. Kirby Beck, Austin Bleam. Jesse Hunt. Corbin Ulrich, Ella Carroll, Grace Green, Maggie Nedbalek, Hannah Slaughter and Abby Waller. Ulrich, 17. and Slaughter. 18, were chosen by the student body to repre­ sent their school as homecoming king and queen. Slaughter, who's been dating Ulrich for three years, said it was a complete surprise when they were crowned. "It was like a movie. It was literally, like, we were not expecting it. We weren’t. We were expecting other people to get it,” Slaughter said. “I was more happy for him than I was for me.” Ulrich, who is on the football team, said while being crowned homecoming king was cool, he was focusing on his team and win­ ning the game. “It w’as a pretty stressful moment. At the moment, I didn’t even want to be out there, for one thing. I just wanted to be in the field­ house with thc guys, but it was a nice feel­ ing,” Ulrich said. In addition to football, Ulrich, the son of Gabriel Ulrich Sr. and Rachel Hazen, is a stu­ dent council member, baseball player and is involved in trades. Daughter of Shane Slaughter and Jenelle Nichols. Slaughter plays volleyball and tennis, participates in lhe winter musical and volunteers through Y Mentors, a mentorship program. Last year’s homecoming king. Braden Tolles, crowned Ulrich; Hannah Johnson, the 2019 homecoming queen, was unable to attend the game in person, but was projected on the scoreboard during the crowning. High School Principal Teresa Heide crowned Slaughter in Johnson’s absence. Slaughter said the excitement of being able to have a homecoming game overshadowed disappointments about canceled homecoming eVTmean we've had football games that were OK - because they were limited with .i ..mhw of oeople - but the homecoming ' ^U know i just makes it all worthwe had a student section, everyoirewas loud and the cheerleaders were having fun, Slaug in a |ong the best gam j, just defeats time. It was juil. Was just’a l«rfecl everything else. I J homecoming dance While unable tohavea and parade " p sWdents this week have h,illway-tfcc^becoming in a variety of been celebrating days (pajama, ways. in<-lufnfc' Md Saxon days), a decade, beach, for juni(,r and powder puff * wn window painting, senior girls, do tilions and a virdaily activities. class v t HOMECOMING, pg-17 Kirby Beck, el V9'e Nedbalek, Abby Waller, Hannah Slaughter and Grace Green. (Photo provided by HHS) GENERAL ELECTION COUNTY OF BARRY * STATE OF MICHIGAN . TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2020 FOR PRESIDENTIAL GENERAL ELECTION THE PLACES HOLDING THE ELECTION IN SAID MUNICIPALITIES ARE INDICATED BELOW: ASSYRIA TOWNSHIP BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP BARRY TOWNSHIP* CARLTON TOWNSHIP CASTLETON TOWNSHIP HASTINGS CHARTER TWR HOPE TOWNSHIP IRVING TOWNSHIP* JOHNSTOWN TOWNSHIP MAPLE GROVE TWR Precinct 1 Precinct 1 Precinct 1 Precinct 1 Precinct 1 Precinct 1 Precinct 1 Precinct 1 Precinct 1 Precinct 1 8094 Tasker Road. Be.'levue, Ml 4902! 3100 East Dowling Road, Hastings, Ml 49053 155 East Orchard. Delton, Ml 49045 85 Welcome Road, Hastings, Ml 49058. 915 Reed Street, PO Box 679, Nashvrie, Ml 49073 885 River Road. Hastings, Ml 49058 5463 S. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, Ml 49058 3425 Wing Road, Hastings, Ml 49058 13641 S. M-37, Battle Creek, Ml 49017 721 Durkee Street. Nashville, Ml 49073 ORANGEVILLE TWR PRAIRIEVILLE TWP. RUTLAND TOWNSHIP THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP WOODLAND TOWNSHIP YANKEE SPRINGS TWR YANKEE SPRINGS TWP. CITY OF HASTINGS Precinct 1 Precinct 1 Precinct 1 & 2 Precinct 1 Precinct 2 Precinct 3 Precinct 1 Precinct 1 Precinct 2 Ward 1,2,3 & 4 7350 Lindsey Rd., Plainwell, Ml 49080 1015 S. Norris Road., Delton, Ml 49046 2461 Heath Road, Hastings, Ml 49058 128 High Street. Middleville, Ml 49333 200 E. Main Street. Middleville, Ml 49333 100 East Main Street, Middleville, Ml 49333 156 S. Main PO Box 98. Woodland. Ml 48897 284 N. Briggs Road, Middleville. Ml 49333 1425 S. Payne Lake Road, Middleville. Ml 49333 Hastings Baptist Church. 309 East Woodlawn, Hastings, Ml 49058 TO VOTE ON THE FOLLOWING PROPOSITIONS LISTED BELOW: 1 COUNTY: PRAIRIEVILLE: HI - TO RENEW EXISTING POLICE PROTECTION MILLAGE ’ JAIL AND SHERIFF DEPARTMENT PROJECT Shall the County of Barry issue its general obligation unlimited tax bonds In an amount not to exceed Twenty-five Million Dollars ($25,000,000) in one or mo re series for the purpose of paying the necessary costs of construction, furnishing and equipping a new County Jail and Sheriff Department offices; real property acquisition and site work; together with design, engineenng and financing costs, and related appurtenances? Shall the expiring previous voted existing 15-mill tax limitation imposed under Article IX. ^Section 6 of the Michigan Constitution on general ad valorem taxes within Prairieville Town­ ship, of .8174 mills ($.8174 per $1,000 of taxable value), be renewed at the original voted .8174 mills ($.8174 per $1,000 of taxable value) and levied for Four (4) years, 2021 - 2024 inclusive, for the purpose of continuing to provide funds for the Prairieville Township Police Department, raising an estimated $145,992.00 in the first year the millage is levied? When issued, the bonds will be outstanding a maximum of 26 years (anticipated 2021 through and including 2046), exclusive of refunding. It is estimated that it will be necessary to levy 0.1722 mill (S0.1722 per $1,000 of taxable value) to pay debt service on the bonds in the first year of the levy, and to levy an estimated average of 0.4501 mill ($0.4501 per $1,000 of taxable value) for debt service in the following years, untithe bonds are retired. #2 - TO RENEW EXISTING ROAD MILLAGE Shall the expiring previous voted existing 15-mill tax limitation imposed under Article IX, Section 6 of the Michigan Constitution on general ad valorem taxes within Prairieville Town­ ship, of .9087 mills ($.9087 per $1,000 of taxable value), be renewed at the original voted .9087 mills ($.9087 per $1,000 of taxable value) and levied for four (4) years, 2021 - 2024 inclusive, for the purpose of continuing to provide funds for the Prairieville Township Roads, raising an estimated $162,298.00 in the first year the millage is levied? It is estimated that a property located In Barry County with a taxable value of $50,000 will pay $8.61 in tho first year of the levy. In subsequent years it is estimated that a property located in Barry County with a taxable value of $50,000 will pay, on average. $22.51 per year thereafter. #3 - TO RENEW EXISTING FIRE PROTECTION MILLAGE The tax revenue received by the County as a result of the unlimited tax pledge will be dis­ bursed to the County of Barry to repay the proposed bonds. :Shall the expiring previous voted existing 15-mlll tax limitation imposed under Article IX, I Section 6 of the Michigan Constitution on general ad valorem taxes within Prairieville Town­ ’ship, of .9559 mills ($.9559 per $1,000 of taxable value), be renewed at the original voted .9559 mills ($.9559 per $1,000 of taxable value) and levied for four (4) years, 2021 - 20241 i inclusive, for the purpose of continuing to provide funds for the Prairieville Township Fire IDepartment, raising an estimated $170,729.00 in the first year the millage Is levied? DOWLING PUBLIC LIBRARY: (Baltimore TWp.) Shall the previous voted increase in the 15 mill limitation imposed under article IX. Sec. 6 of the Michigan Constitution’s general ad valorem taxes within Baltimore Township be renewed at .30 mills ($.30 per $1,000 of taxable value) for the period of 2021-2024 inclusive for Dowling Public Library; and shall the Township levy such renewal in millage for said purpose thereby raising in the first year an estimated $17,261. WOODLAND: DOWLING PUBLIC LIBRARY (Johnstown Twp.) th® P5evious voted increase in the 15 mill limitation imposed under article IX. Sec. 6 „ C°nsl»tut,on’$ general ad valorem taxes within Johnstown Township bo Mr n ° •3 ’ d° 2? S ^*30 per ,00° of taxable value) for the period of 2021 -2024 inclusive '"♦? u ,C Library: and sha" the Township levy such renewal in millage for said purposes thereby raising in the first year an estimated $33,624. Shall the previous voted increase in the tax limitation imposed under Article IX, Sec. 6 of the Michigan Constitution on general ad valorem taxes within Woodland Township be renewed .at two (2) mills ($2 per $1,000 of taxable value) for the perod of 2021 through 2024 inclusive for fire, cemetery, and township; and shall the Township levy such renewal In millage for said purpose, thereby raising in the first year an estimated S182,600.00? hmk ORANGEVILLE: ch „ .h 1 Sample ballots may be viewed atj^ysv.ni'xOQyZyoJSTHE POLLS OF SAID ELECTION WILL BE OPEN AT 7 O’CLOCK A.M. AND WILL REMAIN OPEN UNTIL 8 O’CLOCK P.M. ON THE DAY OF ELECTION. PR0P0SAL TO RENEW MILLAGE FOR ROAD IMPRoVEMENTS Michiaan ConMilf lncrease in ,ho ,ax limitation Imposed under Miele IX. Sec. 6 of the at 1 .Skills (S? nTne°" 9nen°ral ad valorem 'axes within Orangeville Township bo renowed for townshin '00° of taxable value) for the period of 2021 through 2024 inclusive said?hn ™praverrien,s; a"d shall the Township levy such renewal in millage for said purpose, thereby, raISIng in the first year an estimated $240.242._____________ a_________________________________ ™ ZVmv„r,bal^ musl be mal,ed ’» voters no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday> October jo, Registered voters may contact their local Clerk to obtain an application for or ballot. For any other questions relating to tho election process, pleaso contact your local Clerk: ASSYRIA TOWNSHIP BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP BARRY TOWNSHP CARLTON TOWNSHIP CASTLETON TOWNSHIP HASTINGS CHARTER TWP. HOPE TOWNSHIP IRVING TOWNSHIP JOHNSTOWN TOWNSHIP MAPLE GROVE TOWNSHIP ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP PRAIRIEVILLE TWP RUTLAND 1 & 2 TOWNSHIP THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP WOODLAND TOWNSHIP YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP CITY OF HASTINGS Annette Terry ^enelope Ypma Knight Abanda Brown arcia Scramlin *ni*a Mennell ®borah Jackson ^aron Olson Babcock M0,|y Carpenter P°dy Risner Goebel o, n Hawthorne Willshire j^y Stanton Lippert ^Saurman 269-968-3329 269-721-3502 269-623-5171 269-945-5990 517-852-9429 269-948-9690 269-948-2464 231-373-4784 269-721-3710 517-490-9510 664-4522 623-2726 948-2194 795-7202 ext. 203 269-367-4915 269-795-9091 269-945-2468 PAMELA A. PALMER, COUNTY CLERK 9 �12- Thursday Oaobor 22 2C20 --Thu Hastings Banner • . | g Gravel pit deliberations continue in HoPe Township Luke 1 roncheck 5.- off Writer A special use permit tor a Wilkinson Lake gravel mining o|H'iatinn was neither approved nor denied bv the Hope Township Planning Commission last week. Discussions on the request, submitted by R. Smith and Sons Inc. ol Allegan, have gone on lot three months and are expected to continue. Board mcmltcrs convened in-person at Hope Township hall ior the Oct. 15 meeting. Commissioners and citizens met in a hybrid meeting format with one Wilkinson Lake resident in attendance. Goivlon Smith (no ARSON, continued from page 1 information wc rvceiwd and tor their com­ mitment to their community,” Hastings Deputy Chief Dale Boulter said. “Even though an arrest has been made, the investigation is stili open and acttxc.” • \Vc arc grateful for the hard work lhat the Hastings Police Department has put into this investigation.” Barry Community Foundation CEO President Bonnie Gettys said. “We had confidence that they would find and appre­ hend the suspects involved in (his community tragedy .” Thc foundation owns the Royal Coach property, and had planned lo convert the his­ toric building into a housing development. Gettys said she does not know how much those plans would be altered by the fire, but the foundation is committed to the develop­ ment of a housing project in lhat location. Sochor’s bond has been set at $250,000 cash or surety. A probable cause conference is scheduled for 8:15 a.m. Wednesday. Oct. 28. before Judge Michael Schipper. Records show that Sochor has criminal convictions dating back to 2016. Ar the age of 18, he pleaded guilty April 12. 2017. to breaking and entering a store with intent to commit larceny and w as sentenced to six months in jail. An additional charge of breaking and entering a building with intent to commit larceny was dismissed. Al that lime, Sochor had been on probation for an August 2016 school break-in when he had stolen cash, a camcorder, knives, char­ gers. batteries and candy. Court records showed he had been living in l^tke Odessa then. As a result of the April 2017 conviction. he w as discharged from his unsuccessful proba­ tion. his Holmes Youthful 7raining Act status revoked, and he was ordered to sene .six months in jail. . . ....... Smilh and i>nd Sons), Sotw). । .......« ,-rs .r< of RR. Smith ,nr pub>ic meeting. Another Wilkinson 1-nU reslden David lilljnlt. echoed Smith s comm about thc late notice of the ability to n c inS smith has been adamant in his oiiposition to the gravel mining “f*™"'0?’ repeatedly stating that, if the application is approved', he would sell his Wilkinson . home and leave the community. "We have n great community, and I don t want to leave,” Smith told commissioners. -That application is not thorough al all, in my personal opinion.” Many residents shared Gordon Smith s view (hat thc application was not sufficient. "1 think we can all sec the obvious inadequacies with the proposal provided.” Don Sklcnka said. . He suggested that Roger Smith of R Smith and Sons would “do the least amount of work possible” because he would be trying to limit costs and increase profitability. The original plan was “inadequate and did not provide the necessary information needed for a gravel pit of that size and that location.” Sklenka said. “All these meetings are just giving the company more time at bat." One resident, Tim Hunnicutt, thanked Trevor Smith, representing R. Smith and Sons, for “providing us with misleading information so we know what a good application looks like.” Resident Bill Krueger also voiced his opposition to the gravel pit, citing the potential environmental impacts of the operation. “There is only one Wilkinson Lake - it’s irreplaceable.” he said. Ellyatt again raised a topic he addressed during thc September meeting. At that time, he suggested there was no precedent for a gravel mining operation along the shore of a residential lake, asking that R. Smith and Sons provide an example of a mining operation with lake frontage. R. Smith and Sons did submit examples, and Ellyatt expressed concern with the examples, saying “some of the operations had highways between it and lake frontage, and other operations were as far as 2,000 feet away from the mining site.” However, attorney Ken Vermeulen, representing R. Smith and Sons, said the examples were submitted to show that there would be no adverse environmental impact due to a potential mining operation. Vermeuln, ........ ,rnl>ed residents resident -h th..., rncoiWvd opposing thc ln fmd an example of ” rVC' P" hi d «rscly afkUed .he environ^ . d' lak<_ Befwe <I|.VU Hie Wilkinson l ake llre^ni’1'«>rn"''ssio"crs t,,nllu,;tol al ew Another R. Smith and Sonv grn.e| " Uon on Otis Lake Road. whivh finished lip ««"'>>■ rhc rev '<-•» <x> inorv tha 1 (l| can)c before nnv d,SCUS:,0« »n he Wilkinson la.kc operation. nL P01*-1 Commissi0n p. Smith and Sons would havc t k ork improving the condmon of which has been washing QWay ef reclamation of thc Otis Lake R0;ul Chairman Bob Norton several'wr .Co""’nssioners mentioned .ha. After thJi?U,s needed fixing­ , u,e hour-loni? review, commissioners moved to thc WH^nson Lake application iennli'v^ by R’ s"'ith n"d SO,,S' M?5' °f "’e sum >nVer'-'«ion nivolved around whether / .Ie "bourses exist on lhe property and if T *s market demand for gravel in the area. vaincniieKaufman<the legal representation Ior le lownship planning commission, recommended 4 {,oard ask about the pnofitability of Olhcr company opcmtions. 1 rc'or SnWh said his company’s operations are profitable Commissioners also .acknowledged that the company would not be investing in thc Wilkinson Lake property if owners did not think they would make money. Ultimately, commissioners decided that R. Smith and Sons had provided substantial evidence to prove vaiullble resources exist at the site. Commissioners now have to decide if “very serious consequences” would result from a mining operation. The list of consequences can include a decrease in area property values, noise, dust, erosion and environmental impact. Two hours into the meeting, commissioners had a brief discussion on how to host lhe November meeting. They discussed a range of options, including holding the meeting outdoors, rotating people in and out of the township hall during public comment and just hosting the meeting virtually as they have done the past few- months. Kaufman said that, after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed Senate Bill 1108, Hope Township and other local units of governments could continue to host virtual meetings until the end of the year. However, it’s unclear whether the November Hope Township planning commission meeting, scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Nov. 19, will be virtual or in person or combination of the two. 149621 ' HOPE TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ROLL WALL LAKE AQUATIC PLANT CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DIST. 2020-1 THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF HOPE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED TO: PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Township Supervisor and Assessor have prepared and filed in the office of the Township Clerk for public examination a special assessment roll covering all properties within the Wall Lake Aquatic Plant Control Special Assessment District No. 2020-1 benefited by the proposed aquatic plant control project. The roll has been prepared for the purpose of assessing the costs of the project within the aforesaid special assessment district, which district is more particularly shown on the plans on file with the Township Clerk. The costs of the project are as shown on the estimate of costs on file with the Township Clerk at the Township Hall, 5463 5 M-43 Hwy, Hastings, Michigan. The project cost is $150,000, which is the amount to be collected by special assessment, less any costs that will be off-set by carry over of surplus funds from the expiring special assessment district. The amount assessed against each property in the district will be $70 per year for front lots and $30 per year for back lots. If extra funds are available at the end of the term of the special assessment, the Township Board reserves the right to levy an assessment of a lesser amount In the final year or to authorize the carry-over of surplus funds to a new special assessment district. The term of the special assessment will be five years, 2020 through 2024 inclusive. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Supervisor and Assessor have further reported to the Township Board that the assessment against each parcel of land within said district is such relative portion of the whole sum levied against all parcels of land in said district as the benefit to such parcels bears to the total benefit to all parcels of land in said district. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Board will meet at the Hope Township Hall 5463 S M-43 Hwy, Hastings, Ml on Tuesday, November 10, 2020 at 6:00 p.m., for the purpose of reviewing the special assessment roll, hearing any objections thereto and confirming the roll as submitted or revised or amended. Meeting/public hearing attendees will be required to wear masks {if able) and to comply with social distancing requirements regarding COVID 19. Please take notice that if the Township Is otherwise authorized to undertake such meeting/public hearing virtually, it will likely opt to undertake such meeting via ZOOM video conference and instructions for accessing such meeting will be posted on the Township’s website at com ww tionptwp, Please contact the undersigned or consult the township's website for the most up-to-date information. The roll may be examined at the office of the Township Clerk during regular business days of regu|ar business days until the time of the hearing and may further be examined at the hearing. Any person objecting to the assessment roll shall h|e his/her objections in writing with the Township Clerk before the close of the hearing or within such other time as the Townshi Board mav grant. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that appearance and protest at the hearing In the s • i assessment proceedings is required In order to appeal the amount of the special assessment to the Michigan Tax Tribunal An r or party in interest, or his or her agent, may appear at the hearing to protest the special assessment In writing, or may fi|e "Owner earance and protest by letter before the hearing, and in that event, appearance at the public hearing shall not be reqUjrej °PP * ' PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that after the public hearing, the Township Board ma the roll as submitted or as revised or amended; may provide by resolution for payment of special assessments with Inter COnfirnl ovide by resolution for payment of special assessments In full before a date certain; and may provide by resolution for < P . rters as are permitted by law with regard to special assessment for aquatic plant control projects. Uc^ ot^ef rna PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that if a special assessment Is confirmed at or fo||Ovvi hearing, a property owner or any person having in Interest in the real property specially assessed may a ln^ e ubhc special assessment with the Michigan Tax Tribunal within 30 days after confirmation of the special assessmen*ri^en appe3 Hope Township will provide necessary, reasonable auxiliary aids and services to individuals with djSah upon seven (7) days' notice to the Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. HOPE TOWNSHIP Deborah Jackson, Clerk 5463 S M-43 Highway Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-2464 hopctwpcl^mei net . . rjns at the hea Barry County commissioners interviewed Les’s Sanitary Service president William J. Sweeney of Middleville on Tuesday for an opening on county’s solid waste oversight committee. County Administrator Michael Brown is shown in the background. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) County meets again in closed session on property deal Rebecca Pierce Editor Barr}- County commissioners met behind closed doors again after concluding about 45 minutes of an in-person Committee of the Whole meeting Tuesday. The closed-door session in the Barry Community Enrichment Center's Lcason Sharpe Hall took about 30 minutes, after which the commissioners resumed their open meeting, approved the minutes from their closed session and immediately adjourned. This was the third time in the past month lhat commissioners have conducted thc pub­ lic’s business behind closed doors “to consid­ er the purchase or lease of real property up to the time an option to purchase or lease that property is obtained." The contents of lhe minutes were not made public - nor will they be shared al any time in lhe future. County Administrator Michael Brown said. Tlic minutes will be sealed and destroyed one year and a day from the dates of these meetings, according to Brown. When commissioners began this practice on Sept. 15, The Hastings Banner made an immediate verbal request to review the min­ utes under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act and followed up with a writ­ ten letter asking that the minutes be made public. These requests were denied. In doing so, the county cited the Open Meetings Act, subsection 15268, Section 8(d), which allows for a public body to con­ duct a closed session “lo consider the pur­ chase or lease of real property up to the time an option to purchase or lease that real prop­ erty is obtained, purchase or lease that real property is obtained.” After that first closed meeting. Commissioner Ben Geiger said, “1 hope to have some very exciting news about an important county facility very soon. By law. I can’t tell you what facility wc discussed, but 1 can tell you it will have a fence about it.” Later that afternoon, Geiger released a written statement: “I am not allowed to dis­ close thc issues brought up in closed session. But 1 can say it’s in the public’s best interest that the board begin discussing them immedi­ ately. I hope the county board is able to dis­ cuss more publicly very soon.” While he wouldn’t say what was delaying discussion, he remarked, “Maybe we have to talk with some other parties about it. We're not wasting any time. ...We’re not trying to keep people in lhe dark.” Geiger added, “It’s highly possible that we have something on thc agenda nexi week.” That was Sept. 15. No announcements have been made. On Tuesday. Geiger left through a side door as soon as the meeting adjourned. The closed session had been on the agenda for last week’s board meeting, but commis­ sioners postponed it to allow for all the public comment about Sheriff Dar Leaf, his public appearance at a rally several months ago with men now facing charges in an alleged plot to storm the slate Capitol and take hostages, well as his comments to broadcast media about possible motives for their alleged actions. Unlike last week, no citizens lined lhe walkway wailing lo gel in Tuesday’s meeting. Leaf did not attend lhe session and no com­ ments were made about thc sheriff. In other business, commissioners inter­ viewed William J. Sweeney for/three-year term from Nov. 1.2020 to Oct. JI. 2023 tu the county‘s solid waste oversight committee. Sweeney would replace Brent Cowan, who did not apply to sene another term. Sweeney, the president of Les’s Sanitary Service, has 42 years of experience in the solid waste industry and was the only appli­ cant for the solid industry* representative post on the board. In other business, commissioners: • Heard a request from James McManus, the county’s director of zoning and planning, for Public Act 116 farmland preservation sta­ tus for the Donald Johnson property in Section 33 of Irving Township and thc G&H Leep property in Sections 7 and 18 of Orangeville Township. • Listened to a presentation by Susanne Huebner regarding amended monumentation surveyor agreements and a remonumentation budget amendment. • Heard a recommendation Irom Tim Necb. the county’s building and grounds director, to spend .$24,715 for carjKl replacement in the historic courthouse. �_ } The Hastings sports 1 DANNER I section | Thiir^riav October Orlnhor 22. 77 9090 Thursday. 2020 Vikings score 14th win, spot in district final Lakewood senior Caleb Fletcher (7) maneuvers between Comstock Park’s Michael Reyes (left) and Luke Fulmerhouser to set up the Vikings second goal during the Division 3 District Semifinal at West Catholic High School Monday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Sports Editor Lakewixxl seniors Caleb Fletcher and Jake Jackson teamed up io make the play that thc Comstock Park Panther? just couldn't. Fletcher danced through two defenders with lhe ball al the top of the 18 for the Vikings and then lapped it along the line where Jackson came charging in and blasted a shot pjit the Panthers’ keeper to give lhe Vikings a ?-l lead with 4 minutes and 21 sec­ onds remaining in the first half of their Division 3 District Semifinal m West Catholic High School Monday. Thai one-goal lead stood through the sec­ ond half giving thc Lakewood boys the chance lo play for the district championship back at West Catholic last night (Oct. 21) against Grand Rapids Catholic Central. Catholic Central scored a 2-1 win over West Catholic in (he second semifinal of the evening al West Catholic Monday. Thc Comstock Park Panthers created some strong rushes into the Vikings* end throughout thc night Monday, but struggled to create dan­ gerous chances with their skills in lhe final third of lhe field. The Panthers and Vikings traded goals in (he first ten minutes of the game, with Comstock Park taking a 1-0 lead w ith a pen­ alty kick about four minutes in after Viking goalkeeper look out an onrushing -Panther attacker in his box. Lakewood answered wilh Drew Marquoit assisting on a goal by Garrett Feighan soon after. IxVcque said his learn looked bad in the first ten minutes. “They carried everything at us. They scored five minutes in and just dominated every­ thing. We were trying to dribble the ball instead of passing the ball and it was killing us. For a few minutes, it was killing us. They had possession. In was in our [defensive] third. We were struggling. Il looked like we were on the ropes early . “Then we started creating momentum a little bit. started to realize we could possess and started getting some chances. Obviously, we scored. Jake Jackson scored the first one. We started building the ball well and then we started to pct some threatening chances. They may have been the better team, but wc put more balls into the attacking third, more into their 18 than they di-i ngainlt ours. We were llnowiiig the b.dl inwibe middle and hoping to make a play on the ball more than they did and that is kind of oureeipe.’* LeVeque felt like thc Panthers had some of their best chances inthcfinal minutes, despite losing two players to red cards in the closing minutes. Edilson Mendez made some great plays throughout the evening in the midfield for the Panthers, but just couldn’t quite con­ nect with Sam Kamando another speedster at the top. Some of that had lo do with the Lakewood defense. “Luckily , my center back [Connor Feighan] got his head in it a little bit after the first goal and did what he does. You could make a case that he could be the best defender in our dis- Trojans take to home course TK ladies hold onto nmneizup spot in Gold Breit Bremer Sports l-.dilor Thomapple Kellogg senior Brennan Lutz didn’t expert to feel any twinges of sadness Tuesday, but all of a sudden it hit him at the starting line. Standing in the crowd with fellow TK seniors Anthony Kinne. Howie Frizzell and their teammates at the OK Gold Conference Championship he realized if would be his final cross country race on the course in Middleville tucked into thc open spaces between Bob White Stadium, Page Elementary and the Thomapple Kellogg Middle School, winding past the football practice fields, high school softball diamond, tennis courts and AY SO soccer fields. “I wasn’t expecting it to be sad. Lutz said. “I don’t like this course at all. so I wasn’t looking forward to it at all. but it is going to be sad saying good-bye to all die .soccer fields, (he baseball fields, lhe whole course.” “Al! the other courses they have the woods.” I.utz said, “lhe woods is lhe best pail of any course. Here, it is just loneliness especially just way out there (at lhe south end of lhe course near the TK bus garage tar from thc schools and most of lhe fans). I his course is just empty and dreadful .’' He’d rallief be running in a crowd at Portage or through the woods anywhere. Somewhere where he can see the scenery whizzing by rather than long open stretches. Thu course al Portage West Middle School that is home to the Portage Invitational and regularly the home o! the Division 2 Regional race that the bojaus participate in is ILutz’s t.isorii. even with its “disgusting hills. Lutz and the Trojans won’t gel to rim ’W this fall though. They’ll be a pan ot thc DiviT<>h 2 Pre Regional hosted by South I hii tian Friday, with the lop tour teams and seven individuals not on those teams advanc­ ing to Regional races in Otsego. it was still there though, the feeling of the end of an era for Lutz as he prepared to run at home for the last time after joining the school cross country program as a sixth grader. He placed 31st Tuesday at the OK Gold Conference Championship Meet, earning a time of 18 minutes 36.01 seconds which he was happy with. It was his second best time of thc year and his best time on the Trojans’ home course this season by more than half a minute. Lutz was just one place off his best conference finish ever. He was 30th as a freshman. The Thornapple Kellogg boys were seventh as a team Tuesday. Forest Hills Eastern bested Cedar Springs for the day’s championship. 54-59 at the lop of lhe standings. South Christian was third with 86 points, ahead of Catholic Central 117, Ottawa Hills 124. Way land Union 153,Thomapple Kellogg 159 and Kenowa Hills 164. Cedar Springs senior Corey Bowers pulled away from FHE’s Ben Clason in lhe end lo win lhe race in 16:18.40. Clason was second in 16:29.05 and Ottawa Hills sophomore Benne Anderson third in 16:46.66. Five guys finished in less than 17 minutes with FHE sophomore Aidcn Sullivan fourth in 16:48.13 and Ottawa Hills junior Juan David Hernandez fifth in 16:54.19. Freshman Lucas VanMeter led the TK boys’ team with a 24th-pluce time of 18:18.27. Junior Camden Reynolds was 28th in 18:301)8 and his fellow junior Matthew Smith was right behind Lutz in 32nd-place wilh a time of 18:36.72. Sophomore Aidan Buist sei a new personal record to be lhe fifth TK scorer with a 44th-place time of 19:27.24. Kinne was 45th in 19:28.35 and Frizzell 46th in 19:56.40. Cedar Springs edged lhe TK girls for third place Tuesday. 105-107. behind a great battle for first between Forest Hills Eastern and Ottawa Hills which the Hawks won 60-6L Lakewood goalkeeper Ben Scobey swats the ball away from his net during the second half of the Vikings' 2-1 win over Comstock Park in the Division 3 District Semifinal at West Catholic High School Monday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) '< trict I think he is the best defender on thc field every single day - fast, feisty, strong and runs through everything. He just makes it absolutely tough on team’s stars, lie always goes after the starts, always goes after the studs and he takes them out of their game. He irritates everybody.” Lakewood improved its record to 14-2-L w ith the viclory. fmaS too to 2©1© Ottawa Hills had four of the first five girls across the finish line.led by individual cham­ pion Madison Ebrichl. a senior, who won in 18:4445. ~ Die Bengals had freshman Selma Anderson second in 19:14.03, senior Naomi Dykstra third in 19:19.44 and junior Adit Dau fifth in 19:46.29. ft was the first race of the fall for Dau. who joined herte*nmale ^bright on the medal stand at the c*1 of lite Division 1 Lower Peninsula Cro* Country Finals in 2019. Catholic Central freshman Emily Tomes was the only girl able to break UP lhul Pack­ Placing fifth in |9;43lj. I orest Hi||s Eastern h’d sophomore F.IIory Clason sixth in 19*5050 and sophomore Sara Dixon seventh in 19:5630. Jessica Durkee *i junior, ran her fastest race of the season for the 1K g",s 10 P,acc eiShth in 20:00.66 and sophonW teammate hmel,a MacDonald ran her fas«st varsily race CVcr ‘° place tenth in 20 ° 1 25“You can control attilude’ >our cffort’ ‘?nd >our decision and our gir,s d,d just that.” TK obis’ coach Sam Wilkinson said. “They positive, in the right mind­ set. they worke<J h\rd jnd they were thought­ fid m their decisions- They u’onlro,,ed whal they could. . Wc did not have co”!n)1 over 1 a juggernaut, Uc not have control over °"“*a Hilh be-,,,., 011t of this world, as well “» bnnging in ....'ntuing ;lllllclc *e hadn 1 seen all yc.|r ‘ ^,,14 not control Cedar Springs puiti’no, ...^her a performance like we have not sX„ .51 veil-11 >ou askl!d n,e 10 predict the outcome Jf tonight’s race. 1 would not have p,^ H )0 play out like this. Regardless u, . what we were sup!>>>scd t„ (j0 " fusing on the rip.ht things. We Ja|)ll J ‘ in the race tonight. I P^-d with ho*,he S"1' Poriomied and I ho^ u)(, 'are 'tH>* 'I hey make me See TROJAns> Pa&e 15 Thornapplu Kellogg sophomore Emelia MacDonald runs to a new PR and a tenth- ’ place finish at the OK Gold Conference Championship on lhe grounds of Thornapple Kellogg Schools in Middleville Tuesday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) �’ Pa9« 14 — Thurulay. October 22 2020 — The Hastings Banner finale Fall footb®11 Brett Bremer »• Sports Editor k It is the final weekend of lhe regular scasoi r in a year that nearly every varsity footbal • pn»gram in thc state can qualify for sotn< J postseason play. > Whether it is momentum. play oil position ' ing, a possible home game or something else ( everybody has something to play for. ’ Hastings will lie looking to try and secure i • home playoff game when it travels to Charlotte • for its regular season finale Friday The r Saxons clinched al least a share of lhe Interslate-8 Athletic Conference with theii ’ win over Coldwater last week. Now (hey can •root for thc Coldwater Cardinals to defeat • Parma Western this weekend and give the ' Saxons' thc outright conference champion­ * ship. ; The Saxons have closed out each ot lhe • past two seasons w ith convincing wins over the Orioles. The only high school tootball team that ? Lakew ood has faced off more against over the ' years than Hastings and Charlotte is the Ionia. ’The Vikings and Bulldogs renew their rivalry -jn Ionia Thursday evening. The Bulldogs will . be playing to avoid their first winless regular ; season since 1999 while the Vikings will be ^looking to close out lhe regular season with n ^record above 500. _ • Thomapple Kellogg will be looking to fin­ ish at 500 w ilh a win at Forest Hills Eastern ^Friday night. The Hawks arc 3-2 with OK JXJold Conference wins over Wayland and vOttawa Hills, lhe two conference foes the ^Dojans also defeated this fall, and Kenowa •Hills. £ Delton Kellogg faces a lough task as it Nooks to build a three-game winning streak • heading into thc postseason. The Panthers are ^home to take on Southwestern Athletic '^Conference Valley Division foe Schoolcraft, a ^program lhe Delton Kellogg Panthers have "never bested on the gridiron. > Schoolcraft is looking lo close out an unde•Yeaied SAC Valley fall and improve lo 5-1 yOverall. The Eagles’ lone defeat this season ‘came in week three against non-confcrence ’foe Chelsea - a team that is undefeated and •ranked third in the state in Division 3. , > Maple Valley will look to finish ils regular , season with a homecoming victory when ■ ‘Bellevue comes to Nashville Friday. The Broncos took the traveling trophy, the little brown jug. with a 16-0 win over the Lions last . year in a rare low-scoring eight-player affair. The MHSAA will release its plajolT pair­ ings pairings, plus informalion on purchasing -tickets digitally and attendance limits, to schools and the media early Sunday after­ noon. Game dates and limes will be filled in •Monday. •T Local Standings (W-L, playoff points) Hastings 4-1 (45.200) । Lakewood 3-2 (26.000) Delton Kellogg 3-2 (24.200) Thomapple Kellogg 2-3 (28.200) Maple Valley (8-player) 2-3 Conference Standings (overall, conference) Interstate 8 Athletic Conference Hastings 4-1,4-1 • Parma Western 4-1,3-1 Coldwater 3-2,2-2 Pennficld 3-2,3-2 Harper Creek 3-2,2-2 I Lumen Christi 2-3,2-3 .j- Marshall 2-3,2-3 Northwest 0-4.0-4 r OK Gold Conference G.R. Catholic Central 5-0,5-0 4 South Christian 5-0,5-0 , Forest Hills Eastern 3-2.3-2 . Cedar Springs 3-2.3-2 n, Thomapple Kellogg 2-3,2-3 . Kenowa Hills 2-3.2-3 < Ottawa Hills 0-5.0-5 r Wayland 0-5,0-5 Southwestern Athletic Conference Valley Schoolcraft 4-1,2-0 Lawton 4-1.2-1 Delton Kellogg 3-2,2-1 Saugatuck 3-2.1-2 Galesburg-Augusta 0-4,0-3 Greater Lansing Activities Conference ■ . Olivet 4-1,3-0 Lakewood 3-2,3-1 Leslie 2-3,2-2 Stockbridge 2-3,1-2 Peny 0-5,0-4 Here is a round-up of last week’s local grid­ iron action. Hastings 30, Coldwater 29 The Hastings Saxons are Interstate-8 .Athletic Conference football champions for The first time. The Saxons capped off a 4-1 season in con­ ference play with a 30-29 come-from-behind, homecoming victory over visiting Coldwater Friday night inside Baum Stadium at Johnson Reid, which clinches al least a share of die ^conference tide for the Saxons. I Hastings dug out of a 23-16 hole in the isecond half and thwarted a Cardinal two-point -conversion attempt with 62 seconds to play to Seal lhe victory. • “There was a big celebration,’’ Hastings -head coach Jamie Murphy, happy to have /more fans in lhe stands than had been allow­ able during lhe first few weeks of thc 2020 ;varsity football season. * “The energy in the stadium the second half ydnd of carried us through the second half. It nvas very exciting. There was a lol of energy nin the atmosphere and the team kind of '"absorbed it form the crowd. It was definitely > home field advantage.” » Robby Slaughter scored tlx? Saxons’ first three touchdowns, on runs of three. 66 and ten /yards. £ It was Evan Eastman who put thc Saxons in The Saxons' Evan Eastman (left) and Kyler Madden team up to bring down Coldwater’s Aiden Marsden in the backfield on tho Cardinals Iasi m|nute two-point conversion attempt, leaving the Saxony ahead by a point inside ®aum Stadium at Johnson Field Friday. (Photo by Perry Rardin) I- Wb Hastings junior running back Collin Livingston works his way through a hole on a run during the Saxons’ one-point win over visiting Coldwater Friday night. (Photo by Perry Hardin) . -.r., «S.... J Oehon Kellogg defensive lineman Cole Pape (72) closes in on NorthPointe Christian ^rhnni bcCak ^0^ Ku durin9 ,he honiecomin9 ballgame at Delton Kellogg Hiah School Fnday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) yy 9 Delton Kellogg running back Rickey Ramsey looks tor room to run around the left side as NorthPointe Christian defender Caleb Praam closes in during the fourth quarter Friday in Delton. (Photo by Brett Bremer) from for good with qf33-yard touchdown got the defensive linemen to make some reception from quarterback Mason Denton. adjustments, shutting their attack to help keep That TD pass with 1:19 to go in the game was the Cardinal defensive linemen away from followed by a two-point conversion run by linebackers Corbin Ulrich and Owen Winecar teammate Lanny Teunesscn that had the Without lhe defensive linemen to deal with Saxons in front 30-23. Winegar and Ulrich were free to get outside Coldwater had a trick up its sleeve, and got and clean up the Cardinals buck sweep whil • a 74-yard touchdown pass from Brock also be prepared to deal with the counter. Thornton to Deandre Douglas on its first play Ulrich had a team-high six tackles. Eastman from scrimmage following the Eastman TD. had four. ‘ Murphy said his Saxons were geared up to “I am just really imposed with the team as stop a counter play by the Cardinals, which a whole," Murphy said. “They are d had allowed Coldwater to pick up a few big they don’t give up on each other. They don’t third down conversions in thc first half. The point fingers at each dher when they nnk Saxons hadn’t seen lhe wrinkle before where mistakes. They just turn around and get re utv the Cardinals flip lhe ball back and pass oui of for thc next play and they expect everyone lhe look. Douglas came out of the backfield else on lite team to do the same." and was alone 15 yards behind the Saxon Slaughter scored the game’s . defense waiting for the pass and then he out­ a three-yard run six and a half minutes in M • ran everyone to the end zone. added a 66-yard TD lha< helped pp/.k The Cardinals called n time-out before Saxons in front 16-15 »ilh 4:20 to p| ®;‘ t coming out to go for two and the lead follow­ first half, answering a g°*ahead TD hv th ing the long score. The Saxons were more Cardinals. by lhc inornappit nc,,uyy rnnvuvu iviiuoieion is swarmed hv QAtlfh prepared at the snap of the ball on the twoSailors as he carries the ball across the line of scrimmage durino ,i? h Slaughter added a ten-)^ touchdown nm point attempt than the Cardinals. Kyler Friday in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 9 ’ e 0Ufth quarter with 4:11 to play in lhe third nu..rt , Madden shot into the backfield untouched to pulled the Saxons within 23-22 auhe ,1™ !hi“ disrupt the play and Eastman arrived too to Denton tossed a twO-P°‘,n c°nvci^;on ’ . Slaughter answered with his long TD run. lo- a 2.1.Id edge al the ha|f make sure Coldwater QB Aiden Marsden was to Eastman following Slaughter's flhJ. on the turf. bursting through the middle on a trap, and I’J down. Coldwater tied the game at # o . . licker 11 <■!* gUi1’ ,"lcn,l>1 by Hastings Murphy said defensive adjustments made nine-yard TD nm by Cameron To »<> r-«xi fiie w ™ « Russell tacked on the two point run to get the ‘uimne all thc different in the second half as the lead back for the Saxons at 16-15. lWo’point conversion f*58 82 SCc«nds into the 'IC '"util' quarter, with the Saxons limited Coldwater to just 16 yards of **oiid quarter. ColdW*^ lh^n look th" ?J?. After a big 39-yard kick return by Douglas, S i\o is <| > -u o ,one;b,lt ,he offense in lhe second half before thc long late the Cardinals moved 47 yards over lhe final ‘5-8. MX minutes later <* » ! - ’orce‘l >’'■><! str.ught throe-and-out TD. : four and a half minutes of lhe first half to gel y Cooper Fredlund »n<l “ Brayden Bovd Murphy said defensive coach Brian Donniji wtra-point kick. " Bo>d a one-yard ’ID nm by Spencer Rudesiler and a two-point pass from Marsden lo Rodes tier Continued next page �The Hn !f/j; Bnnrwr -• Thursday. October 22, 2020 — Page 15 f°OTBALL, continued from previous page chance «illi"s l|’“l|fo’n|!'el ',S "ffcns<‘ al,,>lhcr "Olir fKrimc“\pl)i'>lX'ulMn'J4ll'ek,<ll'av‘; ' 13,0 P'«>'. pressure Hx»n our lr«n<'hi"'"ao , d |(, lush before IX-nion\f,,>1*i V"*' "" n‘"c p,a7' io threw on h.sback foot 1 throws We knew ,he'’ql*"lert ’ ilch fast •<» Hitman xvhh '| bH,<>W" UnK'M,»"» dude.and we had lo force hm ' as xxe could on lhe opuon and £ k<J<j." for 138 Vrtx R,;*1 '8 rushes had to gel in his lace when he ( । ?7 vmls -.n, 1 1 ':arncd 11 19 "l,,c' for the ball That particular I'.anie P • The Delton Kellogg oltemeo^ yarxK U"':SSC" had 14 dories lor 63 second half with a five mmuu c nnheX'ri P,rtlinal >4 minated in an 11 -yar.l Ramsey 115 r ; Xird< * >a,d' ' ^'hmdhnd 11 carr.cs for NorthPointe Christian got Us six poin'_ Madden V■ for '7 yards. a l.vard touchdown run by qi rurbask Maisden completed 1 ot-l passes for 23 Hayden Koeleron the first play ol tbs quarter. Die Mustangs switched lo n™ * ’ H xshn'1""1' ‘|l>e b;Kkr'cl'1 w"l> Frvdlund. to invd7s,n"n1': l i,P'»> 'h.s fall, set wishbone style offense as lhe game wore n fiXn -s F • “ fOT US rcsular lcawl' and it took the Panthers a bit lo adjust, but friend Tlx-r r‘\° d"i,,crgoes from foe to adjust lhev did. . , _ P inn 1/ ard,na's '■lose the season against While missing the ballgame with Sang Ktnn. Western last xveekend. The Panther, the previous Friday was disappointing. are currently 3-1 ln lhe conference - the lone Panthers got to work out a few defenst c team to best the Saxons this season. If lhe issues with the little bit ol extra lime. I anther, win. the Saxons and Panthers share Lakewood 26, Leslie 21 the conference title. If the Cardinals win, the The Lakewood varsity football team championship belongs lo the Saxons outright secured lhe runner-up spot in the G^‘alcr Delton Kellogg 28, NorthPointe ' Lansing Activities Conference this fall by Christian 6 scoring a 26-21 victor) over Leslie on Unit) NorthPointe Christian’s five offensive Field Friday night. doses ot the first half ended in a fumble, a Leslie scored its opening touchdown after fumble, a turnover on downs, an interception falling on a ball in the end zone that thc and another interception. Vikings fumbled near lhe 25-yard-line and Delton Kellogg’s varsity football team was booted backwards again and again. The turned those turnovers into a 21-0 halftime Blackhawks eventually pushed their lead to lead and went on to a 28-6 win over thc visit­ 15-0. ing Mustangs in a non-conference ballgame at Lakewood head coach Matt Markwart said Delton Kellogg High School Friday night. his guys played a really good game once they Bradley Bunch scored thc last of those stopped shooting themselves in the foot. three first-half touchdowns for the Panthers Running back Denny Sauers finished the on an 8-yard nm with 2:39 to play in the first night wilh 12 carries for 121 yards and two half, moments before being crowned thc 2020 touchdowns. His first touchdown run. a Delton Kellogg homecoming king alongside 62-yardcr, was one of the best runs his coach 2020 queen Lizzy Fichtner. could remember seeing and gave the Vikings While the defense made some big plays, their first lead of the ballgame at 19-15 w ith the Delton Kellogg offense was about as 4:28 to go in the third quarter. strong as it has been all season. Having thc “The kid broke six or seven tackles and previous Friday night’s bailgame with basically willed himself to break through Saugatuck cancelled gave the Panthers some everybody to gel down thc field.” Markwart extra time to focus on fundamentals and make said of Sauers’ go-ahead TD run. “He took some adjustments to the offensive front. control and really went down and did a great ”We knew that we needed to sure up our job on that run.” offensive line a little bit better, so we made Lakewood got a 12-)ard touchdown run some adjustments, so wc moved Cole back from quarterback Jaycc Hansen before lhe from tight end to tackle. That kid is going lo end of the first half to pull his team with 15-6. play tackle al the next level. He is a phenom­ Leslie opened the scoring with lhe defensive enal lineman, so we needed him back a little touchdown by Hunter Doyle that was fol­ bit closer to the ball, a little closer lo the lowed by a two-point conversion and a nineaction. And we had to move one of our run­ yard TD run by Carter Collrain which includ­ ning backs [Hunter Belew| from the back ed a Max Fourman extra-point kick. field to pulling guard. He has been our best Eli Minard hit two extra-points for thc pulling guard for the last three years, without Vikings. The first came after a 23-yard touch­ a doubt, so it wasn’t a hard decision to make, down run by Sawyer Stoepker a minute and a but yet it was because he was also a good half into the second half, l hat TD was set-up running back. by Hansen’s lone completion of the night, a “He started thc first three games at running 29-yarder to Xavier Jackson. back and did a great job. but wc just needed to Minard also drilled an extra-point follow­ get the line reestablished and he is lhe best ing Sauers’ 23-yard TD run a minute and a pulling guard we have had in a long time.” half into the fourth quarter that put the Belew has been an ail-conference guard in Vikings up 26-15. each of the past two seasons. Leslie tacked on a 2-yard touchdown run ‘Tie had a couple really nice hits on the by David Whitehead with 9:07 to play to get end. He just had some really good kick traps within 26-21. and he played the short trap really well. What Garrett Stank finished lhe bailgame with 15 he brings to the offensive line is just flat lead­ rushes for 109 yards for the Vikings and ership. He can make line adjustments and line Stoepker had six carries for 41 yards. Stank and Charles Everitt had six tackles calls that some of our younger kids can’t.” ’Die Panthers opened lhe scoring with a each lo lead lhe Lakewood defense, and the 12-yard touchdown run by Ricky Ramsey, Vikings got interceptions from Stoepker and which came on the first offensive snap for DK Nathaniel Graham. Hansen w as intercepted once deep in Leslie after a 27-yard fumble return by Vincent Quick pul the Panthers in possession at the territory late in the first quarter. Stoepker and NorthPointe 12 less than three minutes into Graham both had their interceptions in the second half for the Viking defense, thwarting thc game. The second NorthPointe fumble led eventu­ drives that were closing in on lhe Lakewood ally lo a 2-yard touchdown run by Panther end zone. Lakewood also stole a possession after quarterback Pay ton Smoczynski. Thc Delton Kellogg defense stopped a third Sauers’ long TD run when Brent Sweet recov­ Mustang drive near midfield, and then lhe ered an on-side kick. Coltrain was 10-of-23 passing for 122 offense marched io the end zone for Bunch’s yards for the Blackhawks. Whitehead led the short TD run. DK kicker Gavin Houikooper was a perfect Blackhawks on thc ground with 14 rushes for 66 yards. Nolan Frohriep was Leslie’s top 4-of-4 on extra-point kicks for the night. Interceptions by Ramsey and Smoczynski receiver with six catches for 65 yards. South Christian 28, ended the last two Mustang drives of the first Thornapple Kellogg 7 half. DK/TK/HHS girls gain win over Bengals in final race lhe Gilmore Car Museum for the Delton Kellogg varsity girls’ cross country team. The DK/TK/HHS girls won all three relay races. The team of Abby Marcukailis, Sophie Marcukailis. Anna Haywood and Holly Carpenter took the 200-yard medley relay in H Thelj&'TK/HHS girls improved their OK 2:00.20. Carpenter, Haywood, Juliann Meeker RJ,tw and Sophie Marcukaiti.s took lhe 200-yard freestyle relay in 1:5155, beating lhe fastest Bengal foursome by less than a second. ....... Abby Marcukailis added a win in thc 200to Hastings tonight beginning at 6 p.m. (Oct. yard freestyle wilh a lime of 2:04.87 and in 22'- ‘V K^W-udXbe the 100-yard freestyle at 58.67 seconds. Sophie Marcukaiti.s won lhe 200-yard individ­ ual medley in 2:27.27 as well as lhe breast­ stroke. Haywood captured the 50-yard free­ style victory in 27.25 seconds. yard breaststrok pajUce Jousma, Ellen All of the second, third, fourth and fifth style relay team Marcukailis place points proved pivotal though. t* -....... .. Giris from lhe DK/TK/HHS team also look the championship sal Ottawa Hills’ Freshman­ Sophomore Meet Saturday in Grand Rapids, capturing the title for the team for thc second freestyle n. lay ( ()|- Jt..Lsy Rodas, fall in a row. ahead ol ">« 1 ;UMj Mcg Strand Eve Bishop took first in thc diving, setting -IheaPazdermK. /^ ^ ,|ie 100-yard a new meet record in lhe vent. Sophie Sophie M«rcuk. )7 wilh Middleton sec­ Marcukailis won lhe breaststroke in a new breaststroke III ■ ddea a team point meet record and Cadence VanOoy set a new meet record in winning thc backstroke. The DK/TK/HHS team also got wins from Carpenter. Prc.slee Hall and Haywood. ...... . Ottawa Hills held a two point lead with two races to go. but lhe Delton Kellogg/rhomapplc Kellogg/Hastings varsity girls swimming and diving team managed to surge m front for a 96.90 win over the visiting Bengals in •ux.l ?'■' Troj‘,,,s Wi" 'O ■"'! "<>,1^18ne.l » happening llg„ln h.e Kclh'l’g v:,rsity f,KKha|| »• n s ufftn?‘PP L thr ball on the ground a .V\V?X> PUt s',a il c()sl ,he 1 n)’:,ns ?. “K 7 Ok r ,oss ,o South C|tT- M),a (t final regular season r.an,e ’nside h‘a’?. vhlie Stadium in Middleville dns fan -j Wh provtf to 5-0 with the win. '’'Sailor^ ‘ Iroia tumbles on each of their f,r5t two J ns Io?1 ’ and three total lor thc niL’,’L and turned those first iwo turnovers itl, Sa* ‘ South Christian quarter­ back tossed, ^’S-n passes to teammates E,i ru^Orasliuis in the game’s first ,en min ? wlp h‘s (eanl bu,ld a ,4*° He ^Yi;^h smiths score 5:p , opening quarter and then tossed anL ilD Pass lo Grashuis with ^'Wtogn'^O^'iquortei. nK TnihihC 'n,Presslvc 33-yard muchdi,xxJ,?’ '' lirom Mitchell Middleton on 'he final ,’CiPv<*rf lhe flrS’ quarter> bul couldn't get mP 'h cl* Hoing oflcllsi'el>' the rest of the .. K , xfiddlelon caught a short pass in the rii’hIX-lcv';l,:‘1 °nC defcnder at the 3(l-yard-linh. I'd r»" ,hroush ,he lacklc 1,1 another’. dilS^r defender ai the tenyard-line and then n^c h,S T*°. 'hC zone before ki ki fl* e^-P01"1 h'n’sc|fR> nbrandt added a-hmfD pass five mmi"es into (he seeonJ half’ a ,'? >ard,-’r ” Grashuis lhat „llt thd’ 'eam “P 2I’7 ",.,h1 ",e "md of four Sam M*"-qs cx,ra P°ln' klcksThe Sailors added a <>nc'>ard In ™n ’-v Daniel Posseu xvii?7'12 rcma,n,nf 1,1 the ‘ "Rynbrandt finished'he night 20 of-28 pass­ ing for 209 yards. Grtshu|s had seven recep- lions for 83 yards. - , , ... ,, , Middleton led d*^ 3 ,ack w"h '4 !usl’? for 79 vards QlulK,back Rccsc Garbrecht was 3-of-4 passing M » >ards TK T,,e Trojan defense di#,ld 'hq Sa,1°rs ,oJass than three yards bud a team-high 9.5 tackfc ^or R>an Holmes had 65 tackles an#* Bonnema added five tackles and an inWfff1’0’!; , , Maple Vallc) 45’X'vbberu,,c 14 'lhe Maple Vriiej vars,l>’ b>otball team recovered from a t^b quarter to score 45 unanswered p^nS *n a w in os er visiting WcbberJfe Saturday afternoon al Maple Valley High ooL The Lions got touchdown runs from senior running bacK Hugheston lleckathom, including three in the second quarter, as they clawed out of a |44)bole. Webben ille look the early lead in lhe ball­ game with two fust quarter touchdowns, a 28-yard scoring tw ^nm Max Mills in the opening minutes and then a 56-yard touch­ down run by T/Cpc. Heckathord scored on a .47^y‘ard‘xutf 28 seconds intoWsecond quarter and followed each of his three second-quarter TD runs with a two-point conversion. He scored on an I l -jard run with a minute to play in the first half and then again on a three-yard run with 32 seconds logo in the half. I Icckaihom added a 12-yard TD run a min­ ute and a half into die fourth quarter. The I .ions addd a 26-) ard touchdown run by Tyler Rose half a minute later, and then tacked on a three-yard touchdown nm by Amon Smith with six and a half minutes to play. Owen Bailey booted successful extra-point kicks following the Lions’ final three touch­ downs. Hcckathom and Lion quarterback Blaze Sensibacach surpassed the 100-yard rushing mark as the Lions took control of thc ball­ game. Heckathorn finished thc afternoon with 24 rushes for 168 yards. Sensiba had 13 rush­ es for 100 yards. The Lion team had 390 yards on the ground as a whole and Sensiba also completed 3-of-5 passes for 61 yards. Reese Proctor-Burhans had two catches for W yards to lead Lion receivers. TJ Coe led the Spartans in rushing wilh three carries for 70 yards. Webberville quar­ terback Kolson Ly cos was 7-of-19 passing for K0 yards and was intereepled by the Lions James Wiserand Hunter Bassett. Proctor-Burhans also recovered two fumb*cs for the Lions. .. r Jcs$y Deppe had a team-high seven tackles ,or lhe Lions Proctor-Burhans had four and C<)dy Tayfor and Sensiba added three tackles each. Lions beat Broncos ■n district soccer opener Thc -Mapfe V.,iuv xan.i'y boys' soccer (cam a .spo' ill yj‘. h.'s (Oct. 2D Division 4 DiMrict Sen, <- vrda> ith a a 3-1 win over visi,ing Bcl'cvu'T .Thursday in 'he opening round of u, ,asl D iment< aden F Mule l°l J two goals and Caleb Wi,,i«nis one f"1 Val,c> XS U UVCngCd U ,ate SePleXf°ir M‘iolbe Broncos. Duncan T,OS$ Ashton Ripley and Wi,li^eJ^’Tlissisl on thc evening lor ^el-ion. Khh;“lan Thc Li.v . scheduled to face KakiinazJ^ the district semifinals KuliuJ)^Chr,sli‘iJ- n High School. Hackett Catholic |^Cbn nlhoun Christian were slated t<, and e . »s second semifinal conics! i‘> ’ "if di,.. , is planned tor 1 p.m. Thornapple Kellogg senior Brennan Lutz makes his way along the course in Middleville during the OK Gold Conference Championship Tuesday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) TROJANS, continued from page 13 proud.” The TK ladies still managed to finish in a tie for second place overall in the conference, with Ottawa Hills behind Fores! Hills Eastern, with their performance Tuesday. Thc Trojans were second to Fl il: al each of the tw o confer­ ence jamborees this season. The TK team had sophomore Lucy VanDemark 23rd in 21:13.34, sophomore Madison Nagel 31st in 21:45.43 and junior Kendall Snyder 35lh in 21:57.63. Behind the top five sophomore Lindsey Veiling was 38lh in 22:11.56 and junior Ainslcy Oliver 45th in 22:59.20. Nagel joined MacDonald and Durkee in running her fastest race of the sea­ son. Hastings harriers show off improved pace at Turkeyville Hastings freshman Caleb LaBoe continued his climb up the lnterstatc-8 Athletic Conference standings as he finished off his first conference season with a fifth-place fin­ ish at the Championship race in Turkeyville Tuesday. LaBoe sei a new personal record of 16 min­ utes 535 seconds, besting his previous PR by nearly 40 seconds and finishing over a minute and a half quicker than he did when lhe Saxons ran at Turkeyville in the Marshall invitational the first week of September. Nearly all of lhe Saxons ran their fastest race ever Tuesday.'with the Hastings bo)s placing sixth in lhe day’s overall standings and the girls' fifth. Harper Creek’s boys and Marshall’s girls finished off undefeated conference seasons by winning Tuesday. 'Lhe Harper Creek boys outscored run­ ner-up Coldwater 40-64. Marshall was third wilh 82 points, ahead of Parma Western 91. Jackson Lumen Christi 120. Hastings 126. Pcnnfield 175 and jAckson Northwest 217. Harper Creek had two of the three fastest guys luesday. Junior Owen Gilbert won the race in 16:26.8 and junior teammate Josh Maurer was third in 16:38.0. Marshall senior Adam Foreman was the runner-up al the race in 16:28.7. The five Saxon f/eshmen in the line-up all set new' personal records. Riley Shults was 15lh in 17:45.9, Jonah Teed 21 st in 18:09.9, Reuben Solmes 49th in 21:005 and Cole Greenfield 52nd in 21:50.6. Hastings senior Jacob Arens set a new per­ sonal record as well, finishing in 22:20.1. Saxon senior Claten Patten was fourth for the team and 41 st overall in 19:43.7. The Saxon girls’ team had five girls set new PRs. Junior Allison Teed led the way with a 15lh-place lime of 20:33.1. Senior Aura WahlPiotrowski was 24th in 21:33.0, freshman Lily Comensoli 35th in 22:503, junior 1 lannah Crozier 39th in 23:31.9 and freshman Adrianne VanDenburg 40th in 23:37.0. Saxon junior Carissa Sirou.se was the sec­ ond Saxon to finish, placing 17th in 20:482. Saxon junior Hannah Vann ran her fastest race of the fall to place 50lh in 26:143. Marshall won the girls' race wilh 52 points, ahead of Parma Western 61, Lumen Christi 63. Harper Creek 86. Hastings 124, Coldwater 161. Northwest 195 and Pcnnfield 245. Lumen Christi had lhe three fastest girls Tuesday. Junior Faith Smith won the girls* race in 18:09.5. Freshman Madison Oslerberg was second in 18:35.4 and senior Renae Kutch third in 18:58.1. lhe Hastings varsity cross country teams w ill head lo U.S. 131 Motorsports Park to run in its Division 2 Pre-Regional hosted by Plainwell Frida) afternoon. The top four teams and seven fastest individuals not a part of those four teams at the Pre-Regional will qualify for lhe following weekend’s Regional round of lhe stale tournament. Check out all our Special Services: <3 «» & Business Cards Greeting Cards Big Prints & Posters Folding & Laminating Custom Rubber Stamps Plastic Binding and more! 1351 \.Broadway (M-13) Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY I R1DAY 8:00 - 5:30 �Paw,16~thu,sdjv_, • y- October 2020 2* 2°20 - The Hastings Banner Anthers put up PRs at SAC Championship ! SThc Pam),,, lltrmtr Editor •'"owns and unknown 11*""'"^ aga'n:’’ hosted th,. e afternoon as ^-Pnfetence Ch,m„; l?’*'we’,cm Athletic Museum. h‘'mPtoiivhtp at Gilmore Car ,^0 1 sPHt ’nto two v^nf5 l^c league was those times were r * 1 hursday’ and then Endings combined to create the final raced to a^Kth^JUn’Or /^u^rcy Aukerman Kellogg girls nm ?CC finish ,or thc 00,10,1 time ever at 9? l’np Up her fnstesl varsity 'vas nearly ”?nUleS 3630 scconds- Shc was at the last a?d " haIf faMer lhan shc Gilmore nJ. o <raCe ,he Panlhcrs held nt the she set at n 9,5 ScconcIs faster than the PR The t^onn,s;i > ear ago. Gilmore r? M Werc schedulcd nm at 2D in th.- c\.^.U:SCUni again yesterday (Oct. new mi C»r O1^,s’on 3 Pre-Regional Race - a 7 he tn * r ,O State tournamen( for this fall, not on f°Ur ,cams ^P seven individuals to the Regl!nTm“ctl,C Prc Rcgional qUa,ify lhat pm her in 71st place. Dellon Kellogg had three guys run their fastest varsity race ever. Sophomore Micah Martin placed 35th in the boys* race in 19: 3156. sophomore Brett Harsevooi 54th in 20: 35.7. and sophomore Gage Vincent 61 st in 21: 08.81. Panther senior Micah Ordway ran his last est race since earning a ’medal al the 2019 Division 3 Lower Peninsula State Finals, hit­ ting the finish line in 17.T6.O5 which was good for sixth place in the overall SAC boys standings Thursday. The Saugatuck boy* »«m1 Kalamazoo Christian girls took championships at the con­ ference meet, wilh those two schools finish­ ing 1-2 in each of the competitions. The Kalamazoo Christi An girls upended the Saugatuck girls 44-79 at the lop ol the girls* standings, snapping the Saugatuck girls string of 13 consecutive conference championships. The Saugatuck boys beat the Kalamazoo Christian boys 60-67 at the top of their stand­ ings to stretch their conference championship string to ten seasons. .Aukerman was one of four DK girls to run ""‘aslesl race of the season Thursday, with P omore Lilyanna Sinclair also setting a new personal record with her time of 29:38.32 Dellon Kellogg junior Aubrey Aukerman runs to a new personal record du the SAC Championship at Gilmore Car Museum Thursday afternoon. (phoJo . Brett Bremer) y Delton Kellogg sophomore Brett Harsevoort works his way up hill during the first mile of the SAC Championship Meet at Gilmore Car Museum Thursday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Dellon Kellogg freshman Austin Bagley winds his way around the course on the grounds of the Gilmore Car Museum Thursday during lhe SAC Championship Met. /Photo by Brett Bremer) Kalamazoo Christians t°P six scorers were all among thc lop 20 in the girls*race, a group led by sophomore Aubrey Herder uho"set a new PR ai 20:28.15 to place third individual*, fyParchment senior Mary' ^ow"a$the girL’ individual champion in 19:44.40.and Coloma junior Ava Genovese set a new personal record with her runner-up thneof20:B.4° Freshman Maya Veldt led thc Saugatuck girls with a time of 20:37.06 that put her in fifth place. •; Coloma’s girls were third in thc jay’s standings w ilh 84 points, ahead of Lawton 114, Parchment 155. Delton Kellogg |o0. Fennville 185. Schoolcraft 189, Watervliet 195. Martin 209 and Constantine 306. Gobles, Galesburg-Augusta and Hackett Catholic Prep did not have enough this run­ ning to earn a team score. Galesbtg.Augusta did have senior Aubree Sedoreplace fourth in lhe girls’ nice with a lime fo 20:2942. Sedore was at the front of the pack in the race ih.it included the Delton Kellogg girls. DK junior Halena, Phillip,-? ran her fastest , race of the season to iuifdj lSxt\ m 21:52.41 and sophomore Joe lie \Cnfe had asensonbest * time of 24:22 66 to place 44th DK also had i' Delton Kellogg junior Halena Phillips closes in on the finish line at the end of the SAC Championship race at Gilmore Car Museum Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) freshman Brea Chandler 4th in 24:48.05 and sophomore Kasey Kapteyn 52nd in 25:23.35. Saugatuck junior Nik Pettinga won lhe boys' race in 16:21.16, one of three Saugatuck guys who placed in the top four individually. Parchment junior Garrett Winter broke up that pack with a tune of 16:22.23 to place second. 'lhe Parchment boys* team placed third overall with 84 points, ahead of Coloma 109. Watervliet 132. Gobles 136, Delton Kellogg 149. Fennville 175. Constantine 254. Hackett Catholic Prep 273, Schoolcraft 286 and Lawton 303. Galesburg-Augusta and Martin did not cam team scores in the 14-team meet. Behind Ordway, DK had sophomore Hector Jimenez 24th in 18:45.77 and junior Austin Blocker 30th in 18:17.48. The sixth Panther across the line, behind Marlin and Harscsoort, was freshman Austin Bagiev who placed 57th in 20:49.36. sh@©towt Olivet ended the Delton Kellogg varsity boys’soccer season Tuesday with a 2-1 win in a PK shootout in the Division 3 District Semifinals at Olivet High School. The Eagles took a 4-2 win in the shootout after the two teams ended regulation knotted at 1-1 and then played through 20 minutes of scoreless overtime. Olivet had the first and last lead of the ball­ game. Noah Coleman scored in the second half to put the Eagles up 1-0. It was a quick answ er for Delton Kellogg as Hector Jimenez scored off an assist from James Blackbum to tie the score. Gavin Houtkooper made 12 saves in thc loss. Thomas Mason. Bryce Heisler. Andres Almanza and Ben Hooson converted their four penalty kicks in the shootout for thc Eagles, and Olivet keeper Colton Orvis made two saves. Dellon Kellogg opened the state tourna­ ment with a 6-0 victory over visiting Jonesville last Wednesday at Delton Kellogg High School. Jimenez had two goals and two assists to lead the Panthers to lhe victory. Kiran Vazquez added two goals. Cameron Spaulding had a goal, and Houtkooper came out of his net to score a goal and add an assist on the night. Marcus Moncnee had one save in goal in the first half for DK and Houtkooper had three saves in protecting the Panthers’ second Delton Kellogg’s Adam Froncheck fires a kick towards the Jonesville net during his team’s victory in the opening round of the state tournament in Delton Wednesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Delton Kellogg's Ca^en err,s gets his head on the ball as teammate Gavin Houtkooper during hiS ,eams 6-0 win over Jonesville in the D,v,sion 3 District opener at Delton Ke''°99 High School Wednesday. (Photo by PcrrV Hardin) half lead. Honsowitz top 20 at Div. 3 golf finals Hastings senior Rylee Honsowitz capped SKSiSX. East Lansing« ro the 18-hole Ho^wijz scored^82^ .>k,I8holc event, finishing J _ ,.jaljsu> She was third ^the’nXividualsla.equ.difierscom. round. A couple double bog from par as she- ever ££ ; n we|l." Hastings -Rylee p ayed " ,,shc , head coach K"slen any holes to make herself up very well onnW bu, par and often had « fi«*/ those putts justdidn • ■ ••Conditions were cold and windy and she focused on putting together a great round, which she did. I m very proud of how she played. Marian won (he Division 3 State Championship, outscoring runner-up Luther hi North 321-327. South Christian was third with a score of 330, ahead of Cranbrook Kmgswood 340, Flint Powers Catholic 346 Goodrich 347, Forest Hills Eastern 349* I-reekind 356, Grosse He 35k, Grand Ranids Christian 359, Whitehall 371. Detroit Coumrv Day 380. Harper Creek 381. Big Rapids 385, Grand Rapids (atholic Central 187 IO5b<>ygan 389‘ Cbar,oUe 399 and A,,e^n Marian*s Shannon Kennedy won a onehole playoff with Giand Rapids Christian’s^ Ryann Breslin to capturf De'ton Kellogg’s Andrew Fales pushes through the midfield with the ball during his team's wtn over visiting Jonesville in his team’s Division 3 District opener Wednesday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) ,ndividual state championship after ‘ PU| together rounds of two-undci-p^'.7 • Behind Kennedy f°r .0,.le four seniors in the lien-up f^ Sarih i?,nP,ons. was Lauren Sass with J ’ ** Kurcdjian with an 81. junior Ashk'^^ "’till an 82 and Laura Emerson ‘l Lauren TimpL a hich nu/i ^l,t,lcran North with a score of 71 *. • Kt in third place individually. *‘iol^?,l.I(h win? ,rcs,ln'an Ashley Thoma>mawa< ’X ". 0)11 75. Semor Lturen Revd Creek ladies to a 13th-p*^e/‘.icjua| st. 'UK)ting an 80. Parma Western inJ*' was Qualifier Sydnie Rcdovich. a jun*‘ ' ’ndividuall} with an 88. TK volleyball beats Bengals in three sets The Thomapple Kellogg team defeated Ottawa HilN nv Gold 25-10 tn the second round of the I K aJfcreme Tournantent Tuesday tn Grand Ka| Ttojtuts will close tournament at Wyoming hitttn|.indsey White had mx on a«s- tor rK.htttmg 22 service points in all in the win. Fllie Sh<x>bridgc added fixe aces foe (heTrojans. Tyah Jefferson led the Trojans w ith 11 kills and Chloe Tcachout had ten kills. Setter Claudia Lems put up 14 assists ami setter Adrienne Duits h«ui ten. TK head coach Tia Cross said her girls played a clean game or, both >idcs of the net. �Tlio Hastings Danrwrr — Thursday. October 22, 2020 — Page 1 / ’ fivA ^nnounces plans to invest in ■ ®!aSemb|y P|ants in Michigan I n.. ■ I • t. . lu luesdnv . nuw (han $J50 11 ,s investing manufacturing plants to 1 • ,n M'cM»«n Onon. Romuiu, j "Illnl, |.(lkc future eraaso “?’*ns'"*n Township production. ' f’K*iuP “nd Cruise AV ” 1 his is '’.yvi and hardworking UA\V°tM‘5h’gan Emilies critical momentum f \ or*crs, providing (he State “( l v r" .C?non,ic "*"*4 >n a bulletin front the M^r'Wl"lnK'r Development Coronru* ,C^’^an Gnomic sworn i„ as ' 'a,'On\ Sin<* ' was historic investment''a'C ^ro"fi'> in " creating more to than r«X) mlK:hh'8an ”'° jobs. l>,ant''Iwill continue work 1? ^ every other business ,h ’ X "“P^ v'a'e of Michigan'^’' GM !'nd 'nV“’ GM s announcement included: the Lansing 1>iVt°° mvion invcs,mcm >n ^‘ng Delta Township Assembly nlam to produce the next-generation GMC XcSto °* State defends ban on guns at polls u h Marine s r,f 4.»fy °r ‘Sla,e Lxclyn nuti,;"- y-.■.;<?,i,n*shc. i’!i' pollingJ” ban the <’Pcn carr>.' of P™" fn-m n01id •■'^‘•nsed reludance ‘■'ifon?'1' ‘aw enb”'-0""-'"' l;,,,U|,s nbou' Ben working families across the state." The news builds on other recent announcements by GM to invest in Michigan plants, including an announcement earlier this year to increase jobs within the conipan) s Lansing manufacturing operation* to meet customer demand for mid-si/e SI Vs and to support the launch of two all-new Cadillac bars0L2*k. Bensd*,ssued "•»( ol ixX "> 'anied f”1'"""' w,lhln 100 fccl with . Pkvs •«> Hlection Day. Those funs /'""'esicd l,censc c"n carry conceal'?1* in buiUi'nEs ,hal •■'■ready ban es. u ^ny, such schools or chureh- sedans. Last week, the company announcer Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly will now be Factory Zero, establishing lhe facility, ant in state of Michigan, as (he launchpad of the company's multi-brand electric vehic c strategy. More about lhe state’s business opportuniticscanbefoundalmichiganbusiness. tncmt',e ^v>h!icans and snme ,aw cnforceBenson?,l,ps have questioned whether live, an ’he pow^to ,SSUe such a direcvnftMee sheriff5 have said they won’t org/why-Michigan. come1|kVSUi’ challengh’B the edict could ney w,1tUcc^’ s°*^ $tcvc Dulan, an nltorResixxn u lhc Michigan Coalition for nrot n b,e Qun Owners, which includes Ben :ts Michigan Open Carry, her hnn n Sa’J Tuesday (hal she’s confident authori.vW‘H1,d hold HP «n court. Her legal voter i. ?• C°mcs frvrn s,ate ,aws against consti ”n5d3tion as WcU 3S S,alc and U s* vote Protections of the right to Mirh; C Sa,d- and the rule was crafted w ith fellow8?? AltOn,ey Gencral Dana Nessel. a ^niocrat. HOMECOMING, continued million investment at the Hint from page 11 ——Assembly plant for future production of heavy-duty Chevrolet Silverado and GMC tual assembly. “I think they were super geeked about the Sierra pickups. fact that they could be at the game." Heide -A Si7 million investment in the Romulus said of the students, adding "as many spot* as propulsion plant to enhance automation and we could, we tried to give lo students. They increase capacity of GM’s 10-speed track appreciate some sense of normalcy, but lhev transmission, which is used in full-size are also pretty resilient." pickups and other products, including the all­ The evening’s excitement was amplified b\ new Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban. GMC a narrow 30-29 victory by the Hastings foot­ yukon and Yukon XL. and the Cadillac ball team against Coldwater, making the Escalade. Saxons lnterstate-8 Athletic Conference foot­ -A $3.5 million investment at Orion ball champions. Assembly. An additional $75O.(XX) will be “I want to give a shout out to our football invested at GM’s site in Brownstown Charter program for winning their first - at least Township south of Detroit. Both investments clinching the share of a conference champion­ are related to additional production of the ship - for the first time in 19 years. That’s Cruise AV test vehicle at Orion Assembly. very exciting." Superintendent Dan Remenap “Today’s announcement means good jobs said at lhe board of education meeting Monday for Michigan residents and further solidifies evening. ’’ ...When you go from wondering if our stale’s continued leadership in advanced you’re ever going to get to play to ‘Yahoo, we automotive manufacturing and mobility." get to play’ to ’Yahoo, we’re winning some MEDC CEO Mark A. Burton said. "We games’ to ‘Yahoo, we’re champions’ — what welcome GM s continued investment in the a great fall for football players and our coach­ state and look forward to thc long-term es and staff." economic opportunities it will create for I he open carry ol firearms can create a threatening environment through both visual and other ways." Benson told reporters, add ing thc Jaws give her thc right ‘ to ensure lhat we arc protecting every vote and issuing directives to ensure every voter knows lhat they will be safe and secure when they vote in person." e She said lhe ban ^doesn’t infringe on lhe Second Amendmentjbecause “those with a license to carry a concealed weapon will continue to be able lo do so in places where that’s allowed. ‘This is not a ban on firearms, this is an effort to protect our voters from intimida­ tion, threats and harassment on Election Day itself," Benson said.n Asked why she felt the ban was necessary, she said it was important that local election officials and law enforcement had clarity on the rules in case of potential voter intimida­ tion, and that voters felt safe and confident voting in-person. ‘This issue was beginning to dominate conversations with voters," she said, espe­ cially following recent federal charges of 14 men accused of plotting to kidnap Gov. Gretchen Whitmer ahead of lhe election. Voting rights advocacy groups have also raised concerns after President Donald Trump called upon supporters to show up as poll watchers on Election Day. Some have raised concerns that Benson’s guidance may actually spur gun rights advo­ cate* lo show up lo the polls who otherwise would have stayed home. Michigan Slwriffs Association executive director Mau Saxton called lhe order “a solution in search of a problem" and Ottawa County Clerk Justin Roebuck said the “legally ambiguous guidance ... could incite others to challenge it on Election Day." If local law enforcement doesn’t enforce the rule, thc Michigan State Police will, Benson said. Over lhe weekend, Nessel told Showtime’s “The Circus" that the state police would patrol polling locations where they believe sheriffs won’t enforce voter intimidation laws to ensure compliance. The controversy arises less lhan two weeks ahead of the November presidential election, when a record-breaking number of voters are expected to cast ballots. To dale, more than 3 million Michiganders have requested absentee ballots, more than a third of lhe stale's 7.7 million registered voters. Already, more than 1.5 absentee bal­ lots have been returned. Nearly 4.8 million people voted total in the 2016 presidential election, Benson said. She expects two-thirds of Michigan voters will vote absentee. .., • • . , । „ , . , , •• . . ’ Let's Go Fishing! SHIPPING INCLUDED HAVE YOU MET, continued from page 4 2012. Best phone call I ever made: To Zehnder’s in Frankenmuth in 1989. When I made thc call. 1 didn’t know it then, but the person who made the arrangements for my travel and interview at Zehnder’s was Renee, who a few years later would become my wife. I proposed to her: At the University Club at MSU where I worked in college. Best advice: From a pastor in Jamaica: Alw ays think of Jesus in your life on top of a pyramid. He is No. I. lhe keystone. When I make Him first, everything under Him falls into place. Best place in the world to live or visit: Ireland and Scotland to visit, and Maine to live. Books I'd recommend: "This Present Darkness" and "Piercing lhe Darkness” by Frank Peretti. Big accomplishment: Hearing God’s call and becoming a pastor. Motivation: 1 am motivated by what Jesus did for me, and still does. Something most people don't know about me: That I spent 30 days in Norway after college. Growing up, I wanted to be: An osteopathic doctor. Favorite place to be: Next to the ocean anywhere. Favorite cartoon characters: Underdog and Charlie Brown. What society needs right now : Every bit of optimism and kind-hearted fellowship they can muster. Each week. the Banner profiles a person who makex the community shine. Do you know someone who should be featured because of volunteer work, fun-loving personality, for thc stories he or she has to tell or any other reason? Send information to Newsroom, Hastings Banner. 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings. Ml 49058: or email news wj-adgraphics .com. PROPOSE, continued from page 2 and Alpena. Four of those counties are not testing at least 15 out of every 10.000 residents, as also required by the House GOP plan: Alpena, Chippewa, Presque Isle and Montmorency. House Republicans said their plan also would require counties lo adopt certain "inter­ vention strategies" if coronavirus spread increases and they no longer meet the opt-out requirements. Details were not immediately available, but Frederick said bills will be introduced this week. While the Whitmer administration publish­ es extensive data about COVID-19 cases, testing rates and hospitalizations and more recently school outbreaks, the House Republican plan would require local officials to publish county-specific data each day, which many already do. "No doubt data has been used, and we have plenty of it. but now we need transparency in how data is driving decisions, said Rep. Greg VanWoerkom, R-Norton Shores. „ The plan offers "certainly and hope to residents who have suffered through the stress and confusion of this pandemic, added Rep. Sarah Lightner. R-Springport. Shirkey defends herd immunity commThe House GOP plan could relax Whitmer regulations in some parts ol the state. )u a different approach than lhe type o <- 1 immunity” lhat Shirkey has advocated The Republican leader defended h is ' Monday on J TV News in Jackson, reitera tog lhat he thinks "there's room in a comprc k sive approach to COVID for a bit of herd ,mHe also criticized the Whitmer lion for using regulaWcty orders to continue COVID tv t lions effectively invalidated by ‘ Supreme Court. ... .. cf,;rL..v "It comes across as vindictive. ‘ vcr said. "It comes across as dictators , *ord you want to use. instead of he | I- • People to do lhe right thins ” . .;rir,.|iv Herd immunity is not a ' «cicni Ik. Uy *>und or humane strategy to address 19," Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the state’s chief medical executive, testified Monday in a leg­ islative hearing. Scientists estimate that up to 80 percent of residents would need to be immune from the virus for herd immunity lo slow’ lhe spread. Khaldun told lawmakers. “That would mean 6 million more people in Michigan would need to be infected, and an estimated 30,000 more w'ould need lo die. Thai's just unacceptable." Shirkey. in his Monday interview, refer­ enced thc Barrington Declaration, a document authored by three epidemiologists and co-signed by more than 40 others who voiced “grave concerns about the damaging physical and mental health impacts of lhe prevailing COVID-19 policies." The most "compassionate” approach to the pandemic would be to "allow those who are at minimal risk of death to live their lives nor­ mally to build up immunity to the virus through natural infection, while belter pro­ tecting those who are al highest risk." they wrote. Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infec­ tious disease official, called lhe Barrington Declaration "total nonsense.” A group of 80 public health experts last week published their own memo calling thc herd immunity theory "a dangerous fallacy unsupported by scientific evidence." “Uncontrolled transmission in younger people risks significant morbidity and mortal­ ity across the whole population," they wrote. "In addition lo the human cost, this would impact the workforce as a whole and over­ whelm the ability of health care systems to provide acute and routine care." 'l he former head of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and four other health experts issued similar warnings to Sliiikey in a Idler last week. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads Why every angler and boater needs this map Professor Higbee’s ■ Stream & Lake Map of Michigan is the M and only highly, detailed map of its kind. The 4-foot-by-4-foot Michigan map shows 35,000miles of streams plus lakes. II ( S 9 8 I The STREAM (LAKE MAP OF MICHIGAN resertks another map known to Pennsjtania anglers as the “Lost Stream Map.' It was completed in 1965 alter a 30 year effort 6yHoward Higbee, a former Penn State Professor. Professor Higbee painstakingly plotted by hand, the location of 45,000 miles of streams onto the map. It sold extremely well - until the printer declared bankruptcy and hauled Higbee’s wk to the landfill. But reprints wot impossible because the maps were printed in non-photographic Hue. Higbee was even offered $400 for one of his last maps. And state agencies were For a limited time - get 3 bonuses with each map GUIDEBOOK: Pinpoint the best fishing in Michigan with ( this valuable guide. Easily locate over 5,000 streams and । lakes shown on the Stream & Lake Map. 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ALSO AVAILABLE in heavy gauge LIFETIME GUARANTEED, glass-like, clear-lamination, write-on, wipe-off surface with brass eyelets for hanging. i i I I 1 _ _ _ _ Michigan 4 FT by 4 FT Folded Paper Map(s). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $34.45 ea 11 _ _ _ Michigan 4 FT by 4 FT Laminated Rolled Map(s). . . . . . . . . . $49.45 ea Check or Money order enclosed $ EACH LAMINATED ROLLED MAP SHIPPED IN STURDY CONTAINER Name_ _ _ _ Address_ City Mail Ta J-AD GRAPHICS 1351 N. M-43 HIGHWAY HASTINGS, Ml 49058 I i i i i x r i i I”* i « I X 4 •’ �Pape !S — Thursday October 2020 The Httjlmflo Banner Pair of perfectly timed runs get Plainwell by Saxons The Saxons’,saa . Field Thursday eve made the decision I Saxon senior Nale Flikkema slides in to take the ball off the feet of Plainwell attacker Zachary Nobel during the second half of their Division 2 District opener on Pierce Field .in Hastings Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Barner Sports Editor Plainwell came into thc postseason ranked 13th in the state in Division 2, and the Saxons 'gave thc Trojans a battle. ' Plainwell managed to scored twice in lhe second half to poll out a 2-0 victory over the Hastings varsity boys’ soccer team in the Division 2 District opener on Pierce Field in Hastings Thursday. Hie Trojans were just off in the attacking third of the field, in part because of strong play by thc Saxon defense led by Xander ' Signeski, Kirby Beck. Aaron Gole, Nate -Flikkema and Isaac Oberlin. Senior goalkeep­ ' er Thomas Wickham did a gixxl job of clean­ ing things up in his box when Plainwell broke .through. Plainwell fired some shots just high and wide, but many of the shots came as they Trojans settled for things from a distance. ,Wickham handled mod easily and also snagged Trojan passes into the box that were otten times too near the net to avoid the Saxon keeper in the eatiy going. . ’ The offensive attack was recharged for .•Plainwell al the half however. Plainwell senior forward Nathan Faupcl found the net for his team three minutes into the second half, rush• ing behind the Saxon defense alter teammate . -Samuel Gibson chipped the ball through. Hastings had its lair share of possession • through lhe midfield during thc first half, but • Plainwell took more control in that second half. lhe Saxons fought off Plainwell until • Diogo Ramos put together another perfectly ‘ timed run lo get behind the Saxon defense to run onto a chip from teammate Thomas ' Saplelal and put a shot past Wickham for an insurance goal. . - • -y, ^orks to keep the ball from Plainwell's Mason Mollitor during their Division 2 District opener on Pierce e Trojans took a 2-0 victory, but had to forfeit the rest of their tournament run after the school district 1 s high school for two weeks due to positive COVID-19 tests among students. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Vikings No. 1 after sweep quad with some of state’s best Brett Barner Sports Editor The Vikings invited two of the best teams in Division 2 and one of the best in Division I for a quad Saturday and beat them all. The Lakewood varsity volleyball team, now ranked first in the slate in Division 2. defeated Marshall 25-lb. 26-19, Pontiac Notre Dame Prep 25-14, 27-25 and Lowell 26-24, 25-19 Saturday at Lakewood High School. • Wc played as well as any Lakewood team has in my three years.” Likewood head coach Cameron Rowland said. "We executed game plans, served and passed at a high clip and defended with grit and passion.” Hastings senior captain Keegan Cook spins away from Plainwell midfielder Thomas Saplelal with the ball during the second half of the Saxons’ Division 2 District opener on Pierce Field Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Saxons close out the season with a 4-4-3 record. Plainwell went on to defeat Thomapple Kellogg 2-1 in the Division 2 District Semifinals in Middleville Tuesday, and will face third-ranked Gull Lake in the district finals back in Hastings Thursday. ARE VOU A BARRY COUNTY RESIDENT PARENTING A RELATIVE’S CHILD? THEN JOIN US FOR THE FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER’S KINSHIP SERVICES PROGRAM RELAUNCH! “TRAVEL FOR TREATS” LEARN MORE ABOUT SERVICES AVAILABLE TO KINSHIP FAMILIES PLEASE RSVP JENNIFER JARMAN 269.953 2360 Stay safe and stay in your car costumes encouraged! "Our emotional leaders kept us going throughout the day and at no point did our intent and attention to detail waiver. We have to be able though to take that level of play and continue to build on it.” Those emotional leaders are lhe Vikings’ two seniors, Aubrey O’Gorman and Sophie Duits who are prepping for their final run at a stale championship as tournament time nears. Aubrey had 32 kills and a team-high seven blocks in the three two-set matches, as well as six digs and two aces. Sophie had two blocks, nine digs, and an ace. "Aubrey and Sophie really stepped as seniors in those two roles to make sure lead­ ing up to the weekend and on Saturday that Loca! veteran receives state iw ‘ fof’ S@E'V8e@ Luke Froncheck Skiff Writer Al 90, Russell Hammond of Hastings has been helping people for a long time - and it’s been noticed. His years of service were honored by Michigan Elks with the Veteran Volunteer Award for 2019-20. Hammond was seated with his family and friends around him in the Hastings Elks Lodge on Monday evening, lhat night, he received the award that recognized his lifetime of service. But he declined to be interviewed. He said he doesn’t like being in the spotlight. While Hammond doesn’1 seek lhe spotlight, his volunteer work has left little spotlights all over Barry County. The Barry County native joined thc Air Force in 1948. kicking off a lifetime of service. He stayed wilh the Air Force for four years as an airborne radio operator. He flew on B-49s. C-47s. C-54s and military air transport service C-9BHe also w as the exalted ruler of the Hastings Elks Lodge from 1966to 1967. the 11th in lhe local lodge’s history. In 1970, he received the Elk of the Year award f°r Hastings lodge. Hammond worked as u, contractor and continued his public service through his profession. He was ontf t,,e f,rst people to volunteer with Habiu1 l°r Humanity in the Barry County area. d°nated to the organization by provid‘d free excavating work through his con^,ng business. His wife, Jean H«nunond* forked as a teacher at Lakewood Public Schools and St. Rose in Hastings. Ru>s ,and Jcan are past recipients of the Comfl1'5^100 on Aging Senior Citizen of the Year hon°f: Russ Hammond ab°,,s a member of thc American Legion and ,s acl,Vc in his Elks U.S. Air Force veteran Russell Hammond of Hastings was awarded the Hasting Elks Lodge 1965 Veteran Volunteer Award for 2019-20. membership. Free treats and pumpkins’ Special gifts for parents’ Sunday, October 25 2020 Thank you to our Event Sponsors Drive through at 23 S. Broadway, Hastings. Ml we were dialed in lo lhe task al hand and cel ebrating the big points w hile also getting us to recover quickly after losing points.” Lakewood got a team-high 34 kills from Maradith O’Gorman. Skylar Bump put up 71 assists lor the Vikings and Carley Pierccfield added eight to go along with her team-high 34 digs from the libero spot. Bump had 26 digs and Maradith 25. Zayda Kruger added 11 digs. Maradith and Bump tied for the team lead in aces with four each. Kruger added two. The Vikings host thc Greater Lansing Activities Conference Tournament Saturday after a trip to lhe Schoolcraft Quad tonight (Oct. 22). GET A1X THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe the Hastings Banner. Call 269'9’0-9554 for more ifl*orrtWion. Check out all our Special Services: ♦ Business Cards Greeting Cards Big Prints & Posters Folding & Laminating Custom Rubber Stamps Plastic Binding and more! .q 1351 N. Broadway (M-43) I Listings 269.945.9105 ’ OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00 - 5:30 � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-10-29.pdf 6b71857f86959d9fee05876581bd0da4 PDF Text Text Playoffs are here and everyone is in See Story on Page 14 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 H,,„e.,n^R-RnOr"CC05 C005 Wee Dr ’ ANNER W49053- 11.34 6450/2021 Q 00 AM VOLUME 167. No. 43 Thursday, October^ 2Q^ PRICE $1.00 Jail campaign mismanaged, citizens say NEWS I Set clocks back | this weekend I Daylight saving time ends lhe first I Sunday in November, which this year, I will be Nov. 1. So, just two hours into the I new month. Michiganders and millions of I other people in the Eastern Standard Time I zone u ill begin the month with an extra I hour of sleep. I Seventeen states and Washington, D.C.. I be entirely w ithin the Eastern time zone. I Five others., including Michigan, are par­ I tially on Eastern Standard Time. All of I Michigan,except the lour I ’pjxr Peninsula I counties of Gogebic. Iron. Dickinson and I Menominee - which arc actually west of I lhe Mississippi River - are on Central | I Standard Time. | Daylight saving time will begin attain I .March 14. 2021. I Green Street | to remain I open Saturday 1 Rather than c.mcehnc or setting trickf or-lreaiir.e hours, official* from (he City I of Hastings will Ut parents decide wheth I er their ghouls and goblins wiU .be out I following the tradition of collecting candy I and treats. Likewise, homeowners will make rhe I decision whether to turn on their porch I lights and offer candy or other treats. I The city will not close Green Street to I vehicle traffic the evening of Halloween. I as had been done m past years. This is in I accordance with the Michigan Department I of Health and Human Services* recomI mrndation to limit the size of outdoor I gatherings. I Rep. Calley to visit I area Monday I Slate Rep. Julie Calley. R-Portland. will I welcome residents to office hours in two I communities Monday. Oct. 26. From 10 to 11 a.m.. she will be at the I Page Memorial Building, 839 Fourth Ave. I in Lake Odessa. From 12:30 to 2 pan., she will be in j Hastings at the TSdrn Center. 121 S. I Church St. A legislative update w ill be provided at I 12:30 p.m., with an opportunity for indiI vidual meetings beginning at 1:30 p.m. “Listening to feedback is essential in I order to represent our common-sense, I hardworking communities.” Rep. Calley I said. ”1 appreciate the opportunity to con­ I ntxt with the people 1 serve.” No appointment is necessary. Out of I consideration for other attendees, individI ual meetings will be kept to 10 minutes I each. Anyone who would like additional lime I or who is unable to attend the scheduled (office hours may email Juh£aH^ I house.mi.gov or caller her. 5I /--7. — BN • w* R'b^^iCrCC p,anned «Peodi,Urcs «* -he proposed in Grand Rapids in May with William Nu|| <)f in Grand Rapids in May with William Null of Editor jail. ‘ ’ Shelbyville, attracted public attention. One of the top projects in Barry County Tuesday. Joel Ibbotson of Rlllhind Then, after Null was charged as part of commissioners’ master plan for the county - a Township enlarged on that criticism during state and federal investigations into alleged new jail and sheriff’s office - will be decided the public comment portion of the regular acts of terrorism, including a plan to kidnap by voters Tuesday. county board meeting, which took place in Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, his comments to a ^ul- before Election Day when votes on a person at Leason Shaqic Hall in the Barry TV reporter, in which Sheriff Leaf speculated million tax request will be tallied, Community Enrichment Center. what might have motivated that behavior, commissioners got one last blast from a Ibbotson read to commissioners from an drew condemnation from local and state citizen who chastised them for mishandling article in Saturday’s Mupk y(lney authorities. the project. ‘ M singling out comments by Nashville Village “No. Dar Leaf did not hurt our chances.” The comments came on lhe heels of a vote trustee Johnny Hartwell. • Ibbotson told commissioners Tuesday. “The of “no confidence” from lhe Nashville Village At the village meeting. Hartwell criticized information |on the lax request] is not out to Council last Thursday, when council members Commissioner Ben Geiger for saying Sheriff the citizens. discussed the millage campaign. Dar Leaf might have hurt their chances of “1 have to agree with this Icomment by I hey agreed commissioners had failed to voters approving the jail millage request. Hartwell]. This information that we’re getting inform citizens about the proposed location Leal s presence on a stage during a rally is that this jail is only going to cost us $25 _ million - us the taxpayers. (ButJ the county’s own estimate is that this will cost $422 million. “This is information that is critical to the taxpayer. We feel like we’re not getting the entire story.” In recent weeks, commissioners have met several times in executive sessions, closed io the public, to discuss property negotiations. Although an announcement was promised by Geiger, no announcement was forthcoming. Ibbotson remarked. “You guys are silting on property that you can construct the jail.” , ... N°w« w>th no announcement forthcoming, ’it just seems like it’s pan of a kick-lhe-can- See CAMPAIGN, page 2 isis continues in Barry County Health officer says they must rely on public to take piecautions Rebecca Pierce Editor Spread of CO VID J 9 continues unchecked in Bam and Eaton counties, health department otlicinls told Barry County commissioners Tuesday. Barry-1 .iron District Health Department Health Officer Colette Scrimger said her staff, which has been working seven days a week, is overwhelmed and exhausted. Seven months ago, a BEDHD news release reported. “There are NO confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Barn or Eaton counties and NO cases within the stale of Michigan.” That was March 10. An animated computer graphic shown at Tuesday’s meeting in Leason Sharpe Hall at the Barry Community Enrichment Center marched through the months since then. The spread started slowly in the spring with few cases, then, progressing through the summer, the number methodically grew in areas where people gather, around the lakes, in the cities and villages, until the county was covered with COVID-19 cases this month. Commissioner Ben Geiger pointed to the dramatic increase. "Il just seemed to explode at the end.” he said, asking exactly when that spike happened. “Il would be about three weeks ago.” Anne Bania, BEDHD planning, promotion and evaluation director, replied. Tuesday. Michigan reported 2367 new confirmed coronavirus cases and 28 more deaths. Meanwhile. Barry County was tracking at 15 new cases a day. up from 12 the week before, lhe health department website was reporting a total of 608 cases in the county Monday, with 139 active cases. 464 recovered. 424 being monitored, 62 probable cases and six deaths. Commissioner Dave Jackson noted that, numbers-wisc. lhe source for the spread does not appear to be schools. “This is more [from community] gatherings and work DaVe Jackson <far ri9ht in foreground) reviews a COVID-19 report offeredTuesdav bv the Rarn, Eaton District Health Department during the county board meeting. Also pictured (background far left) are Countv aL™ t 7" F=^r^?UnliuC°i',hr^SSI°ner environments.” he said. “That’s correct.” Bania replied. “We haven 1 seen the same transmission within school buildings. They [the schoo|s| are keeping students in classroom settings; they’re not moving kids around. ... They’re doing a great job.” Initially, the fear had been thaI schoo)s would drive the spread, she said. Instead health officials have found a more likclv source of the spread is working adults who. in the course of their day, arc exposed to the virus and then take it home to their families The health department is seeing between 15 and 25 new cases every day jn Harry County, which now has recorded six deaths, positive, out of the total number tested, also she said. has spiked, she said. “Hospitalization has increased ”... We’re seeing an increase in the dramatically,” although cases in the county positivity rate, and that’s telling us there is tend to be ambulatory rather than ending up in more virus circulating. We’d like it [the the intensive treatment care unit, Bania said. positivity ratej to be under 3 percent, and now However, patients in Barry County who are it’s over 6 percent.” very ill with COVID-19 tend to go outside the Commissioner Dan Parker repeated the county for treatment, she added. questions he gels from skeptical constituents Commissioner Jon Smelker asked for an who claim the cause of deaths is wrongly update on how the county was doing on attributed to COVID-19. when the cause of testing. these deaths is actually “underlying “Much better than it was,” Barna replied. conditions.” But, while more tests are being administered, the number of cases that test See CRISIS, page 2 Arson suspect’s hearing delayed New plans in the works for Royal Coach property lay lor Owens and Sophie Bales Staff Writers After a brief court appearance before Rnr™ County Judge Michael Schipper via ZoS Wednesday. Keigan SochoCs pre hearing was delayed until 10 a.n, Sochor. 21. ol Hastings, is lacing a c) ~ of third-degree arson in connection with the fire that destroyed the Royal coach buildinu Oct. 7. /X conviction on the chaise would carry up to 10 years in prison and a fine of as much as three times the value of the property according to law enforcement officials Sochor’s attorney. Timothy Tromp,’ a^ked Sochor if he wished to waive his right to a preliminary hearing within ]a ri.,Ve r .. arrest, since the investigatj0 J1 1,s more evidence. ,s galhenng Court records show that Sochor has crimi­ nal convictions dating back to 2016. At the age of 18, he pleaded guilty on April zJmS‘ ^•hejail ovcr 12, 2017. to breaking and entering a store with intent to commit larceny and was sen­ Tromp also asked for , tenced to six months in jail. An additional charge of breaking and entering a building with intent to commit larceny was dismissed. Barry County ^0^, At that time, he had been on probation for Pratt objected to. >»' tcqUcst , Nakfoor . an August 2016 school break-in when he had -• '-ning the scriousness of the enme. stolen cash, a camcorder, knives, chargers, .......... ISatt also told lhe Jtdge th .i « . batteries and candy. Court records showed he fire, watched it "nd didt>c !"r ,hc pointed out that the fire '« sail 911. She had been living in Lake Odessa at that time. area, which couM have ->r a residential As a result of the April 2017 conviction he was discharged from his unsuccessful proba­ danger. People in tion, his Holmes Youthful Training Act status Schipper dented was revoked, and he was ordered to serve six Sochor also was tional felonies. PreP4ratiUll ” three addi- "’pispite‘the lire which burned the historic which carries up 10 Ki yeq bum property, Royal Coach building to rubble developer two counts ol entry prison, and General Capital Group is still locming to intent to commit a cii^. b'reaking with develop the site and is adjusting its construefive years m pns0,L n,c,‘ e«irry up to Jo,, plans accordingly. Haslings Contmurn.y Development Director Dan King said. General Capital Group’s original plan for lhe former Roj al Coach property had involved constructing 54 apartment units inside the existing structure as well as three townhouses, containing 19 units total, on the east side of the property. Construction of that develop­ ment had been expected to start in summer 2021. Although a new timeline and exact con­ struction plans have yet to be developed. King said, the developer is now planning to mcnrporate lhe while warehouse, made of sheet* metal and wood, which stands on the east end of the property and was not damaged by the fire. A new building concept will be created that w ill include both apartments and townhouses, in the same building, he said. “The development company admitted this type ot thing has never happened to thembefore, so they will need some time to adjust their plans.” King remarked. �Page 2 — Thursday. October 29. 2020 — The Hastings Banner CRISIS, continued from paffe .irdiornyopathy example “th infection resulting from example of of «3 *rirnl resulting rest------ - fhmi a v— of ('OVID is not how C'OVID COVID-’’ .. •• • • Die ICH care homiial. ,no"ev,. -'- '- hea<!lhr<t The skepticism expressed by these Jnons from residents in the community M iv be fueling some of the pushback Scrimger menrioned during « health board meeting last • "They all had underlying reasons that dved?’’ Parker asked. _ Barna told Parker that deaths due to ■ftVID 19 span several age. ranges and. m Sue eases, there were no underlying Rndifioris. In those patients, the vims JuServ helmed their systems. r-nVID w The important distinction for any < Bath. she emphasized. "i> that without "^Not only i- the staff overwhelmed by the SbVTD. they wouldn’t have died. lor spread of the disease, she said, they’re having Kividuals who may hast hod m io contend with hostility in the performance Hug conditions, getting CO VID of their jobs. At that health board meeting, Ser the edee. . . In the world of infests w hich took place virtually last Thursday, lhe Beasc. ccmng COVID .> jneventabK' department was approved for hiring three "Il COVID hadn’t happened, the temporary full-time disease investigators lo UpuWn’t have happened.” b gcl V Parka- also said he h^1^. ru.nor help deal with COVID 19 cases. Tin’s should help take some pressure off financial incentive * the staff, Scrimger said. Bes - to say a case was COVJ • lh3l But the challenges they’re facing will £5 Barna .said the system doc> ^pjul. Uy. A treabng P^™",rfdLh. persist, she predicted. "During the summer, people were |Kkes the determination ‘ quite K. sometimes the r contacted within 24 hours.” Scrimger said, "and monitored over the course of 14-day Knplcx • a chain ol Barry County Commissioner Jon Smelker, who serves on the board of •health, asked for an update on COVID-19 ■jesting in the county. (Photo by Rebecca gerce) Health OH’' Dis’"c'Health Depar,menl Health Office, ScIintger answers Tue2dav°?Pb ^m-nissioners1 questions Tuesday. (Pholo by Rebecca Pierce) quarantine. N()w ing „ difficult time getung that ini,in. in some situations." pnonc v Another cha||cn for the department. Banta mentioned, will occur after the health department receives the COVID-19 vaccine. lhe vaccine will be coming early next year, she said. -One of the challenges is Anne Barna, BEDHD planning, promotion and evaluation dire > cajon counties, Figuring out how lo get the population tation that tracks the spread of the novel coronavirus across Barry a vaccinated. We’ve ncvcf |JiKj a situation where we ve vaccinated an entire population all al (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) "Our phone systems arc overwhelmed at once. in contact with someone who tests positive for ,rT°. co"chide the presentation, health C0V1D-19, should go ahead and start this point.” Scrimger said. "We’re relying on the public to really officials offered lhe following advice: Avoid quarantining, she said. understand the situation that they’re in.” she large gathering, and work from home if If residents have questions and concerns possible. Go to church virtually - and about COVID-19, they should contact the said. At this point, Scrimger said, the health participate only jn tbostf socialization health department, and their calls will be activities that occur ou!doors. Mask-wearing relumed in the order they were received. But department must rely on the public to use is essential. Wash hands and use hand sanitizer people also need to be aware of the magnitude common sense and take "the appropriate frequently and observe social distancing. of the demand on the department. precautions." The health department’s goal. Barna said, is to make sure peop[e who’ve been exposed stay home. One fact is certain, Scrimger added, given lhe numbers they have documented, more and more people wi(( be exposed to the virus in the days and weeks to come, and the health department staff will continue to be challenged ay (hose people in a Barry County Commissioner Ben( by the need to Geiger points to the explosion of COVID- timely fashion. So those people who know’ they’ve come 19 cases in the county in recent weeks. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) "... We’re seeing an increase in the positivity rate, and that’s telling us there is more virus circulating. We’d like it [the positivity rate] to be under 3 percent, and now it’s over 6 percent.” Anne Barna, Barry-Eaton District Health Department planning, promotion and evaluation director — ^Middleville resident calls for ino-confidence vote against Leaf COVID case; prompts temporary remote learning at Hastings High School — MSreg Chandler Staff Writer r A former Middleville councilman who is 'opining a write-in campaign for Barry County ‘Sheriff is calling on village officials to lake a Jfcblic stance against Sheriff Dar Leaf o\er nwrent comments he made in the wake of an alleged plot to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen ■tyhilmer. • _ "I’m here today lo ask you for a vote of no •confidence in Sheriff Dar Leaf for his •comments in lhe media of Lite," said William ^csbitt, who served on lhe village council ,’trom 1996 to 2000 and acain from 2004 to £005. Nesbitt made his comments at Tuesday •night’s village council meeting. "h’s noi consistent with the contract that I J worked very hard on when we disbanded our ’Kliddleville police department." • As a councilman. Nesbitt was chairman of *jhc public safety committee when the village Tunsitioned from having its own police department to a contracted relationship with 'Uje sheriff’s department, which was approved Tri 1999. A former reserve command officer in both Middleville and Hastings. Nesbitt expressed concern that changes had been made to the contract since its approval. "I would humbly ask you folks to review lhe contract and make the necessary adjustments that need to be made." Nesbitt said. The sheriff’s department has a sergeant and two deputies assigned to Middleville. The department has a small office in the village hall. Leaf, who is seeking his fifth four-year term as sheriff, has come under criticism from a number of organizations, including the Michigan Sheriffs’ Association, over William Nesbitt addresses lllc Middleville Village Council at Tuesday night's meeting, calling for a no-confi­ dence vote against Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf. Nesbitt is running a write-in campaign against Leaf. comments he made about lhe alleged kidnapping plot against the governor. Leaf was pictured with one of the suspects in the case, Barry County native William Null, at a rally in Grand Rapids in May to protest the governor’s stay-at-home orders. One council member questioned the timing of Nesbitt’s entry as a write-in. "Why did you not consider this write-in candidacy earlier?" Trustee Ed Schellinger asked. Nesbitt responded, "Pm a chess player? 1 try to play things close to the chest nowaday s. If my candidacy is successful, that’s great. But. it’s my intent to publicly ask for his resignation. Al this time. I’m asking you give him that vote of non-confidcnce, ask him to resign from officc/ailappoini somebody to fill his position." The council t<xjk no action in response to Nesbitt’s request/ Village President Charlie Pullen said aften the meeting that he and Village Manager patricia Rayl will meet with Leaf Friday to go over the contract between the village and sheriff's department. Pullen, who served on lhe council with Nesbitt at the time the sheriff’s department contract was established, said after the meeting, the council has had no formal votes to continue the contract over the years. "We haven’t changed the contract al all,’’ Pullen said. "We verbally agreed to ‘Let’s go another year or two years’’’ each time it comes up for renewal .” Delton Kellogg, Thprnapple Kellogg monitor cases more time for COVID-19 contact tracing,” Sophie Bales i Thornapple Kellogg Schools interim Staff Writer Hastings High School moved to remote Superintendent Dan Takens said. Barry-Eaton District Health Department learning for two weeks Monday after a teach­ er tested positive for COVID-19, exposing spokeswoman Sarah Suma said one active another eight teachers to the virus and causing case of COVID-19 was reported al lhe middle school. a staff shortage. Classes resumed at TKMS Wednesday. As "We had one staff member who tested pos­ itive, right. But that resulted in eight other of Wednesday, no other COVID-related issues staff members being designated close con­ were reported at any of the district s schools, tacts,’’ Haslings Superintendent Dan Remenap Takens said. In Delton Kellogg schools. Superintendent said. "So, it really became a substitute short­ Kyle Corlett Monday reported that a central age (rather) than a COVID-19 outbreak. "The school is not considered a transmis­ office staff member had tested positive for COVID-19. while another staff member in the sion hot spot, by any means.” 'Flie staff member in question did not test central office was being monitored. Corlett said the district had a remote-learn­ days." he said Tuesday, referring to discus­ positive until Sunday, giving little time to ing teacher test positive, loo. However, that sions on social media. He registered as a make the transition to remote learning. While getting the entirety of the high individual was quarantined 10 days before lhe write-in candidate in the race just before lhe school set up for online learning presented positive test, so lhe individual had not been on deadline last Friday. Nesbitt. 58, has lived in Barry County near­ challenges, Remenap said staff had been pre­ campus for more than two weeks and have not ly his entire life. He has served on the paring for the possibility. been in contact with any students. "It’s a challenge, but frankly, it is a chal­ Middleville Village Council one term, from Tuesday, Corlett said a support staff mem­ 1996 to 2000, and again from 2004 to 2005. lenge that we anticipated, and our staff did a ber al the high school had tested positive for He also served on die Middleville Zoning great job preparing for this,” Remenap said. COVID-19. and Wednesday, he said a first"It’s been relatively seamless, but we’ll see grade student and a sixth-grade student had Board of Appeals. tested positive. He was on the Hastin«»s City P«>icc Reserve how' things go the next two weeks.” In a post to the high school’s Facebook Unit in the late 1980s.&During that lime, he In a letter to families, Corlett said that if a served as the commander of the reserve unit. page Sunday evening. Principal Teresa Heide student was considered a "close contact" with Nesbitt was then leader of the Middleville emphasized the importance of students partic­ either of the students who tested positive, ipating in remote learning over the next two parents or guardians would be contacted i°£c department Rcserve Um'in ,he I J90s. He also worf^ an employee of the weeks. directly. "During this time, it is very important to Barry County Sheriffs office Civil Division, In a video message to parents Wednesday anH-^^X^in understand that teaching and learning will afternoon. Corlett said, given lhe close-nacontinue every day and students are expected tured interaction among first graders, the firstX“d £camc«in 2(X£ u‘af to be engaged with your teachers," Heide grade class the student was in would be closed wrote. "Please know, loo, that attendance w ill for the remainder of the week. 2005 “*s c°airact with the office tn be taken ... It is expected that students attend We re not going to overreact and shut their scheduled Zoom meetings with their everything down over one or two cases,” teachers. Please be in communication with Corlett told parents, "because we’re confident your teachers, should you have questions.” our protocols are working.” Heide also noted SAT and PSAT testing Students affected by the shift were set to scheduled for this week has been canceled. receive remote instruction for the rest of the However, the counseling department is week Those students are scheduled to return ’usedco°ll^ed of emb,ezin‘ ।'■"'had working to schedule testing dates during this to sc tool Monday after their classroom has two-week period for the 35 seniors who have been cleep-cleaned, Corlett said. yet to test, Remenap said. Testing for under­ District officials are confident that th classman will not lake place until students reduced ehun> a,lt^ pleaded gu,l n r^rt.ed at lX*llOn Kclk^ HcwasscnhS? °f aileinoted embezzlement, return to in-person learning Nov. 9. nected, Corlett said. Sports and co-curricular activities will con­ probation andq? '.0 ^rve up to 24 nwn.'!]Sf° vrid bCVn VCTy ,ortuna^ far,” Corle one day s ” f° <Uys iail, with cwlit for tinue as scheduled nr .mUr Sa P rotoc °ls have really worke Remenap noted that administrators are “P»>n Paynun^,1^ jail time was suspended been\n 1 ^ ?? * prciul . and those who hav working with the high school’s food service to Nc'bi« said ?S«X) to the courtprovide students in need with breakfast and nviv h iv anybody they thin a"d “ would heho ‘upports lh« j“.l‘ Reeled sheriff j,1,14 main focus if he were lunch during remote learning. At Thornapple Kellogg Middle School, subcomnrin^ le.'aid he was involved in a ,^,"l>‘Pl-nK.2h'vl’ built the Thornapple in-person classes were canceled Tuesday. All 1,,dudi"R nrsc^T Services wh,.ch day and evening activities at the school also '“'lire Finns h,“f and interviewing archt- were canceled. "The cancelation was due to providing Write-in candidate challenges Barry County sheriff Taylor Owens Staff Writer Incumbent Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf does not have any challengers on the Nov. 3 ballot — except a last-minute write-in candi­ date who is seeking to oppose him. William Nesbitt of Middleville. Nesbitt said he believes his chances of win­ ning are "slim to none." and he does not have the resources to mount a traditional campaign, but he wanted to speak out against Leaf. "1 decided to run on ethics." Nesbitt said. Nesbitt mentioned Leaf’s appearance at a May rally in Grand Rapids, when he spoke out against Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s execu­ tive orders. Recently, attention was brought to Ixaf’s participation in that rally after one of the men on stage with him, William Null of Shelbyville, was charged in connection with an alleged plot to kidnap Whitmer. After Null’s arrest. Leaf spoke to TV new4 stations and said lhe men charged might have been attempting to arrest Whitmer under Michigan law. His comments were con­ demned by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, Barry County Prosecutor Julie Nakfoor Pratt and the Michigan Sheriff’s Association. "It all added up.” Nesbitt said. Leaf later said he did not intend to defend the actions these suspects were accused of taking. Instead, he said, he was suggesting what their thought processes might have been. But Nesbitt said Leaf has not taken respon­ sibility for his comments or his association with Null. Nesbitt said he chose to run against Leaf after seeing comments on social media, including from people who claimed they were threatened by Ixaf’s supporters after they had criticized lhe sheriff. Ixaf’s critics need a voice. Nesbitt said. “I’m actually quite surprised at the level of support that I’ve been receiving in the last twi -------- �0 JL— ■ I ThH i Page 3 Th*Hasting! HastingsBanner Banner— —Thursday, Thursday,October October29, 29. 2020 2020— — B .. ®rlc expects smooth election, similar to primary Skiff Writer Nov. 3 election is still five daw nw Ma-tiug" City Clerk/Trcasurer t l»" alrcnd>' rccci'«« dose t0 15 absentee voters. * ’w ^Peeling anoIhcr .nn’.iim'reb <000 nbscniee ballots _ IP.000 shc cM,mn|cs she sent out JT * shortly-That means that, wh p, . ^c about a third of the cityVX ™ ”>t> W111 havc vo,«‘ly ’TV. ,w^h7ls of «>c city’s voters .v CaS‘ l,’Cir ball0's * lhesday. " VstKirm-'i' smd city voters should cxnect diir 1~. at Hasting; Ba^st Tin-;h on "txxHawn Avenue, to ne set un 2^^! exactly as it was in August. ^Our August primary was a grcal dress yefrearud for this presidential election ” she “We went into the August election ^ying. Let s do it like we would the ^idcntial election and see if it works.’ And every thing went really smoothly for the Angu*1 election.” . Pomary’l,)dhn,l.eU| C,'“"B'S b,-,B“n ,hc additional .i Iris’de‘u'al elections h one to each ' jct,on inspector has Iven assigned with nntr R| C,ty S Pr^incts to assist "‘“'PoHtng place tiaffie. workers unf’ *n l^c August election, poll shktl ^’continue lo ’“asks and face to tlk blrR* san‘t‘zer and alcohol wipes Plevio ° C?- .an<1 SOmc wiI1 sUui<l behind 1 K'Xiglas shields. th S*‘ynn,ui» who began running elections for .1- .-1 *n N°Vcmbcr 2018, said, in previous ukatons they’ve managed voter lines well. l OCSn 1 antidP;‘le a problem Tuesday. c way we run the election, we manage he crowd well.” she remarked. “We don’t let L.°P C ?el on l0P eacb other. We do our ‘s to keep everybody 6 feel apart and just w«»ling their turn. h iv' “ICnCe *S dlC we re boP,n8 pe<’pk Die main concern she’s hearing from voters is caused by misinfonnation, Saurman said. lite only concern or the only thing that’s wnfusing voters al this point is there seems to be a lol of misinfonnation about early voting. n m;._ And 1 U'inl' lb :fl «nd cast |i''”cSP|l"n 'I*111 voter cm e.srrK’^^J'hc.r ballot,,^ ■ r : - which is11,11,1. (urn jn .. . Voters may * - V)lln.. *,r ballots early voting - "h,d1 1 ,he dl»y of the election. . shc has r.„ Saurman n taia and a,npksupport from H „,fj<Jent t|,e J;1'?’1,1 '•WtcS oltiec and fee ectton u-,11 go smoothly. “ rierk h । Rarr> absentee ’'“id she’s sent out u b‘‘Hots f:ir. of those. 718 peopl* 1 ‘ *ly returned their ba!*We’re getting Kn}gh( Wednesday- I1 s . . n(iuu’niParc to four years ago becau I have as many absentee ballots a- 1 did voters in one Township Board of Trustees c Polling location in Hickory Corners. g them with one precinct in Delton. Knight said the h’^ n“mber of absentee voters could I* aof a higjlcr voler turnout, but she sai • so ooujj jllsl people don’t want to go to Hope Township pebomh Jackson said she’s sent out near «5()abu.nlec ba||()Ht and she is still waiting for about 200 of them lo come back ‘n* That number of absentee ballots js doubk. what it was in 2016. Jackson sajj “I think it’s a number of things/’ jacksoIl said. “It is COVID. yes. for sure. People don’t want to go to the pol,sShe also attributed the increase lo no.rcason absentee voting. For people who still have absentee ballots. Knight recommended taking them to a township ballot drop-box to tum in. “It’s not that I don t (rust the mail.” Knight said. “We just want to make sure it gets there on time. “1 encourage everyone m vok. j want people’s voices to be heard.” she added. Tests of election equipment are being conducted this week in Eaton County. Test^ were conducted on Barry County voting equipment several weeks ago, Barry County Clerk Pamela Palmer said. (Photo by Taylor Owens) » When asked if she had any concerns about voter safety or intimidation. Saurman said that is always a concern, but she does not anticipate any situation occurring that might intimidate voters or pul them at risk. •‘We're always concerned to a degree about voter safety - that’s one of the big things on our list,’* she said, "We want lo make sure voters feel confident about coming to the polling place and being safe and being able to past (heir ballot without any coercion. - “I don't kel like, personally, we have any focal controversial elections going on. which 1 think tend to create more controversy and worry at lhe polls. Our local elections are pretty’ straight foi watt!-” Jackson also wanted to remind voters that they cannot wear hats, pins, shirts or any other .gear promoting a candidate within 100 feel of a polling location. ' “If someone comes in with something, we’ll have to ask them to remove it or cover it up.” Jackson said. ; She said in the past they’ve offered a short of paper and some tape for people to covj* whatever election-themed gear they may be wearing. .’•<£ “Most people don’t realize, they’re jirtf excited to vote for their candidates.” Jacksri said. > Jackson also expressed a bit of concern with the rising numbers of COVID-19 case? in Barry County. She said her team is trying 1'ind the best way to control lines and maintiwlj space among in-person voters on Electron ’’But we have a good team, and I’m not r.go worried.” Jackson said. ? WHAT if l T«> Give You SoMKTWIMg Tl ““ Give YOU GVCAT THAT 1ST You c0MT5?ol youP O5STTMY AMv> EVSM . CHAMgS TV? WoSW? J r IS IT AM R.UIP'P > A MAGIC 5?IMg? AM IMrlMVTY GAUNhlXT ? TVS W®LY GVA1U? 1 The polling location for the City of Hastings — Hastings Baptist Church at 309 E. Woodlawn Ave. — will be set up for the Nov. 3 election as it was for the August primary, with designated lanes and entry/exit points. (Photo by Jane Saurman) -- HAPPY 245™ BIRTHDAY YER another HAND sanitizer MABlWs Thornapple Valley Family Health 2nd Annual Southwest Michig. SARDES Birthd y Celebration Tuesday, Novembei f 10 • 5pm to 8pm Grove Street Cafe J/ e,ove Street (M-43) • Delton, Ml Ful1 Menu. Beer, Mne& Cocktails f ^'tlxlay Cake will be served and spouses invitKl’ nOios and Memorabilia to share! ForMU'ifomation, P'easecoll: KenOisw 616.490.4174 Carl Benner 269.567.8167 Laity Hayward 269.420.7335 WE WANT TO PLEASE Alexliceaga 269.330.2819 PASS THE Smiley BaP!o9le 269.623.2074 WORD! Ron Daniels 269569.6220 SCNPHH the office of Diane Ebaugh, MD, Diana Lightfoot PA and Diana Diemer NP, welcomes Tiffany Jackson, NP to our practice. Starting January 1, 2021 Thornapple Valley F AMi L Y IILALIU 1005 W. Green St. Suite 3(>4 Hastings. Ml 4905# 269-948-8057 �P*ge 4 - Thursday October 29. 2020 - Tnw Hsings B Did you SCC 7 Sheriff’s controversies Halloween decor lights up the night derail progress Rights, and it’s coming from constitutional Halloween decorations can cneer up the dreary - and they can range front i couple of pumpkins on a front pore fights, inflatable figures and a whei <?■ * ' orative show of creepy crawlies t ' . front lawn. Many decorations. u uat a residence on M-43 Hfchway\J?ortor the night as the days grow ever s • Do you remember? Neighborly harvest Banner Oct. 27. I960 This is harvest festival time, and members of the Irving Grange made it a festive occasion at (he Victor Johannes farm about four miles west of here on West State Road. Victor broke a bone in • his neck when he fell off a roof while painting Sept 24. So, his friends and neighbors pitched in Saturday with a Have you corn-picking bee and picked more than 20 acres. Picking machines were provided by Ralph Palmer, Leo Seeber, Paul Wilkes and Walter Stager, with extra wagons provided by Corner Schondelmayer and Rozell Stanton. Other men helping included Very! Belson, Vere Carter. Bud Cisler. Albert Frost. Charles Hauser, Bill Johannes. Jack Joustra, John Joustra, Dick Palmer and Miner Palmer. At noon, Mrs. John [Gert] Joustra, Mrs. Wallet ^alhryn] Stager, and Mrs Garner [Clarnssia] Schondelmayer, members of the Irving Grange, served dinner. Others donating food included the Lc-on Meyerses, Leo [Hone] Seeberi and Rozell [Clara] Stantons. Pictured here (from left) are Walter Stager, John Joustra, Tom Frost, Burdotte Cisler. Very! Belson and Charles Hauser. met? Rick /Xrco. 64, has worked in law enforce ment nearly all his life. Even after his retireI ment from the Hastings Police Department in 1 2012, Argo has continued to work in lhe law-enforcement arena part time. He has recently stepped into the role of code enforceI ment officer for Rutland Tow nship. I As code enforcement officer, Argo resolves I complaints from township residents regardI ing code or zoning violations. I Ic’s on duty at the Rutland Township Hall to receive com­ plaints from 10 a.m. io 2 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. Argo said his background in law enforce­ ment has made him well-equipped for his new role. ! “It’s kind of like right in my field.” Argo said. "I looked at it as something I had done before, as far as working with zoning and those types of things.” Born in Kalamazoo. Argo moved to I Hastings at the age of 11 and grew up on Quimby Road. He went to Hastings High School, then Maple Valley before dropping out at age 16 and working a variety of facto­ ry jobs. Eventually, in 1982, a friend suggested Argo join the police reserve, volunteering as an auxiliary police officer. He did so tor tour years — working at events like football games and dances - and he loved it. “Just serving the community was nice, enforcing the laws. I got the opportunity to talk to people a lot.” Argo said. “If I could have my youth back. I'd do it again. That’s how much I liked it. He eventually decided to pursue lawenfonxmen. as a career going to night school anti earning his high schtxtl diploma before attending the police academy ai K iliniazrxi Community College in I >87. Afterward, he «as hired as 3,1 ofl"’L’r "e Hastings Police Department, where he W‘-nustlliiUtei^a cop. I really enjoy the a ,nd it’s kU'd ol rewarding in ns own work, a “ 1 ,.A )o| of [x.op)c don>, U))d,.r. ilLut cops’ work. They just think we .l^inc^.butdrere’sulotmoretott Rick Argo than that - physical and menial ” Argo worked at the county jail for seven years following his retirement, until he took a break tor a shoulder injury. In late summer, he applied for code enforcement officer and began working Oct. 14. “I’m still learning the ropes,” he said. “It’s going great. I’ve got a lol of people to work for and work with - very helpful and Very knowledgeable people.” In his free time. Argo is an avid lover of Okinawa karate. He’s been practicing karate since he was 19 - for 43 years — and has achieved a seventh-level black belt. “ l he learning aspect of ii intrigued me. as far as lhe learning how io do it the training It’s good for your health, ii keeps me thinner. It keeps my muscle tissues strengthened and stuff. But I love learning it because of what it is - because it goes way, way back into the 1600s,” Argo said. “It builds self-confi­ dence.” Argo leaches karate classes tw ice a week Once*at the Baptist Church i;; Hastings, for free, and again at a dojo in Grand Rapid.. ”1 just love it it’s a part of me, he said. 1 br his dedication to law enforcement and many years ol service to the Hastings and Barry County communities. Rick Argo L this week’s Barmer Bright Light. Best nth ice ever received: Go to school and get my diploma. First job: Working as a nurse’s aide at Thornapple Manor - it was called the Medical (.’are Facility when I worked there. If I could go anywhere in the world: Well, if I could. I would go to Okinawa because it’s the homeland of karate. Book I’d recommend: The Bible, it’s very informative and people should read it get some basic information before leas ing Earth. Favorite season and why: Fall time. 'Die air temivratures are more comfortable. and 1 hkc secmg the trees as they change. what motivates me: Activities, I think. Not so much spons. bm iust bicycling, doing MMiiething. being busy for yourself. What 1 want f0'r Christmas: A nice crossbow. When I was a Ry , „.IIltc<l to be »= I armer I warned to L.rtw |X.k and carrots J -hatever I tuu|(J ,{ _ maybe even The repercussions of Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf’s penchant for controversy may unfortunately become apparent this upcoming Election Day. leaf’s bid for another four-year term is under little threat. Until long-shot William Nesbitt announced a last-minute write-in bid to replace the 16-year sheriff. Ixaf had no opposition. What is under threat is the ballot request for a new. badly needed jail. I have expressed my reservations about the jail proposal, mostly because it gives voters no information on where a new jail would be located, how big it would Ire, and how much it would cost. Leaf’s latest con­ troversy. though, docs not enhance pros­ pects for passage. Leaf’s most recent public relations blun­ der came three weeks ago when he appeared lo be defending a group of 13 men accused Oct. 8 of plotting lo kidnap Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. For months. Leaf has criticized Whitmer’s handling of the coronavirus cri­ sis and the state’s lockdown orders. So. it wasn’t a surprise when Leaf questioned the validity of lhe charges against these men. “A lot of people are angry with the gover­ nor, and they want her arrested.” Leaf said, launching into an absurd legal deduction recorded on area television. “So. were they try ing to arrest, or was it a kidnap attempt? Because you can still, in Michigan, if it’s a felony, you can make a felony arrest.’’ Leaf tried to clarify his position lhe next day when he said, "1 don’t want anyone to think that I’m sympathetic lo lhese charges. These arc very, very’ serious charges. What I don’t want is us trying it in the media and we mess it up in lhe justice system some­ where.” Even though many citizens have been at odds with lhe governor’s shutdown orders, I don’t think many Michiganders thought arresting her was an option. Yet, Leaf illogically appeared to support the view that these men were acting in the best interest of the citizens of Michigan. “It’s just a charge, and they say a ‘plot lo kidnap,’ and you have to remember that, or are they try ing to arrest her or was it a kid­ nap attempt?” Leaf asked. “I’m not trying to sympathize with [these] guys, but we don’t know all the facts. I have a hard time swal­ lowing this [since this] was a serious thing.” The federal government certainly consid­ ered it a serious thing. Now. 14 members or affiliates of the mililia group Wolverine Watchmen have been charged and are still being jailed without bond while details of their chilling plan continue to unravel. So where is all this controversy and where are all lhese public relations blunders by our sheriff coming from? Primarily, by Leaf’s ties over lhe years lo a nationwide organization that purports on one of its web­ sites that.according lo the U.S. Constitution, county sheriffs are “the last line of defense against an overreaching federal govern­ ment.” Leaf counts himself among a handful of Michigan’s “constitutional sheriffs." In Leaf’s mind, he is the final and ultimate authority on law enforcement issues in Barry County. This, obviously, puts him at odds with the local division of lhe Michigan State Police. Leaf and other constitutional sheriffs have refused to enforce the gover­ nor’s COVID-19 executive orders and felt vindicated when the Michigan Supreme Court ruled Oct. 12 that she overstepped her authority. “If you don’t use the authority that is granted to you.” Leaf said of his role as a constitutional sheriff, “you are, in a sense, taking it away from lhe public." Leaf has attended and been a featured speaker at several national conventions of constitutional sheriffs, maintaining that the group does not teach violence. “They are teaching us about the Bill of ^HLiorically. "constitutional sheriffs" have not only enforced the laws: they,^ decided which laws not lo enforce. They view their positions as protecting the people from the intrusions of the federal govern­ ment. They believe shenffs have the ul imate authority in their jurisdiction - even above federal law enforcement - and, because their duties arc enshrined in state constitutions, they cannot be eliminated. The movement and their beliefs connect Leaf to some of the same beliefs many milltia groups espouse. Controversy is nothing new for Leal. During his tenure, he's been in the news when he supported teachers and administra­ tors to carry concealed weapons in schools throughout the county. And he made the headlines when he accepted a number of surplus military vehi­ cles and equipment from the war in Iraq. One vehicle’s steel tracks were so heavy they would have tom up lhe roads if the , sheriff w ould have ordered the vehicle driv­ en down the highway. Leaf even surrounded himself in contro­ versy at the time he came to office in 21)04, winning an election over incumbent Steve DeBoer. Leaf had filed a lawsuit against DeBoer alleging DeBoer had removed Leaf from a school liaison position and then failed to assign Leaf as a court officer in lhe I matter of “First Amendment Retaliation.” ; The lawsuit was filed in U.S. District I Court after a police union arbitrator had ruled in favor of DeBoer and lhe county on a grievance related to lhe school liaison I officer position. Leaf's lawsuit was dis- I missed July 12,2004, by U5. District Court Judge Robert Homes Bell. i Then Leaf challenged DeBoer in follow'- I ing fall’s election, ultimately replacing him I in a bitter election battle that also included I challenger and longtime department I employee Sgt. Bill Johnson. Over the years. I Leaf has faced other high-profile challeng- I ers, such as former Hastings Police Chief I Jerry' Sarver, Sgt. Jason Sixbeny and Robert Jordan. AH took Leaf on and lost due to the / support Leaf has fostered during his career. I There’s no question Leaf has earned the I title of a controversial sheriff, and he con- I tinues to maintain a base of support that’s 1 kept him in power for nearly 16 years. I Whether you agree with him or not, whether I you are concerned with some of the things 1 he supports and says. Leaf will win next I week’s election and lhe right to four more I years unless he decides to step down at I some time in the future. The only way lo I replace him would be a recall election, I which, based on the number of votes he’s I received in every election, would not likely I be successful. | In the meantime, Barry County’s image I as a channing destination and its respect as I an honorable rule-of-law community gradu- I ally erodes. ! Barry' County needs a new jail and it needs to continue with its forward-looking steps into a bright future. It also needs new leadership and a reasonable ballot request to consider. Fred Jacobs, CEO. J-Ad Graphics Inc. • u,ul’lc of cows and some other am- ,f I »<>n th,. |IHIer.. fd pretty much vearLT' for'at 50 then f In "'c l d be dead by then - and I’d pay ■'•i‘,',c'urythins my children have, btto =ma .^hn'‘’,f-/hen rd put the money The Hastings Bdllliei* to .he In.^-su Barrv Coun!y sjt|C(. ;S56M Hastings Banner, inc A Division of J-Ad Granhir^ 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 . p X.|d'i-rLh’r “‘’“Xi^tmte. go to "hat s^X^^ltool belbreyoudec.de too early < i” do. b<>iiT make the plans eoing to change >OU dot11 k'10" " ' o News and press releases: news@j adpraphlcs.com • Advert ■ 945*5192 -------------------------- -------------- ___ ' ,S!n9- ^<&radgrauh;cs.com Frederic Jacobs Publisher & CEO Ac?y^J'S>NG DEPARTMENT Hank Schuuring bach week o who makes th, C Whiter profit 11 lxrson 1 'tow someone C<’!nn'unity shine. Do you because of v),|LW|to should be featured unj • NEWSROOM• Rebecca Pierce (Editor) Kathy Maurer {Copy Ed lor) Brett Bremer (Sports Editor) nt|H-r Highway '.""I’' MI email nev ___ ” ‘Fhivsxoin. Scott Ommen Mike Gilmom ________ CFO -»9l>58; or Sophie Bales Greg Chandler Luke Fronchnck Taylor Owens Subscription Rates-sZTZ 560 per -------- -r ~ Ty Greenfield Jennie Yonker ------------------- yeaf *n Barry Coun?) �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. O-’ober 29, 2.020— Open letter against hate Barry Count v leaders. Leaders *» ' . bnl<1 a,ul daring in Iron: of each o7 Ii?’’’' " lhc p‘"h' hard decisions '’*n'; ,nilk,"S ">« community and th 4 il/s r*^" *or lbc‘r >he next nght * ,pwp!e ’"'i' afraid. We are ’ l\l" "l,cn ,he>' “rc leaders. This is 0,0 °f -Vour <-«mmunity W.* >r,. r . 01 r ,uter to our community ,:n. n ni.11? ’n difficult and tumultuous !’t ‘1w MK'i>1 and Political divides between ....jf1"ucr’ "bile our patience and understanding grow thinner. Io love and respect each other docs not mean that wc always agree. Wc have different opinions, beliefs, points of view, backgrounds and priorities. We have different religions, educations, abilities, orientations, income levels and experiences. Perhaps now more than ever, we must choose to find the gotxl in each other. We must choose to celebrate our strengths and take even opportunity to learn from each other. Wc know that there are at least two sides to every story. Each person has his or her own truth. We do not have to agree with each other to respect each other’s story . Wc believe in doing what is right, even when it is difficult. Wc believe in acting selflessly instead of working solely for personal gain Wc believe that hate and violence do not belong in our community, in our schools, in our workplaces, in our homes. Wc believe that wc should focus on our likenesses, not our differences. We believe that we should be able to have hard conversations about difficult topics with kindness and respect. We believe that people have lhe right to share opinions without being belittled, silenced or threatened. We believe that we can do more working toge titer. Wc believe that our community is strong not because we tear each other down, but because we build each other up. Wc believe in inclusiveness and that our differences make us stronger. Wc will not stand for hate. We will not stand for bigotry. We will not support words or actions that are threatening toward others. Wc will not espouse or support hateful and dangerous rhetoric. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said. “In the end. we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.” Wc believe that this is not lhe time for silence. This is the time when we as community leaders sign our names boldly, in ink. at the bottom of this letter slating that hate, divisiveness, violence and oppression will not be the trails lhat define this community. Respectfully yours. Alan Klein Alex Forsyth Amy E. Young, LLC Amy Murphy /Xnanda Zaccanelli-Jenkins Andrea Burton Andy Cove Angela Ditmar. prcsident/rcgional market leader. Southeast Spectrum Angela Seeber Anne Hamming Ayesha Franklin Barry Community Foundation Board of Directors and staff Barry County Humane Society Barry County United Way Becky Zel liner Bessie A. Smith Betsy Colgan Bonnie Gettys,president. Barry Community Foundation Brandy Shooks. Ed.D. Carl Shocsscl Carol Dwyer, attorney at law' Carol Mantle Carol Sattcrly Catherine Getty Catherine Hart-Jansma ChristvI Burnell. Circle Pines Center Craie’ Jenkins, trustee. Delton Kellogg Board of Education DaleSvihl . Dan Remenap. superintendent. Hastings DrC.tmp Family Foundation Del and Gayle Bachert Diane Hawkins Diane Hoekstra Dr. Katherine Bertolini, superintendent, Maple Valley Schools Elizabeth lamergan Elspeth Inglis Emily Doherty Emily Mater Eric Anderson Flex Fab, LLC Ginger Hontz Gloria Brehm Green Gables Haven Greg Forsyth Harry and Elnora Wallin Jackie Schmitz Jan I law thomc Jacob Maas. Emily Gary and the West Michigan Works! team Janine Dalman, director. Spectrum Health Foundation-Pennock Jean Swander Jeff Buehl Jeff Pratt, Chief of Police, Hastings Police Dept. Jennie DeWitt Jennifer Heinzman Jenny King Jillian Foster Jim DeCamp Joan Bosserd-Schroeder Jodi Borowicz John Creed, owner. Creed Consulting, LLC Johnny DeMaagd Jonah Evans Jordan Brehm, president, Hastings Public Library Board of Directors Julian Kratochvil Karen Hays Karen Kinney Katherine Ponsetto Kathy Forsyth Kay Doyle Kimberly Rodriguez. Step N’ Time Dance Studio Kristen Cove Kyle Corlett, superintendent. Delton Kellogg Schools Lauren Tripp Leadership Barry County Left Field Cafe on Main Maiya Merrick Mark Kolanowski Mary' A. Fisher Megan Lavell, executive director, Thomapple Arts Council Michael and Charlotte Anton Michael Moray Michelle Duits Michelle Skcdgell, executive director, Pierce Cedar Creek Institute Mike Evans, development director. Circle Pines Center Nancy Goodin Nonna Jean Acker, president, Thomapple Players Patricia Woods Peggy Hemerling, director. Hastings Public Library Pierce Cedar Creek Institute Board of Trustees Pierce Cedar Creek Institute Fund Development Council Putnam District Library' Board and staff Randy Teegardin Rebecca DeHaan Rev. Danny Quanstrom Rich Franklin, superintendent, Barry ISD Rick Reigler Route 66 Business District Sally Shuster Shoff Sandra Drummond Sandra Ponsetto Sarah Parr Syswerda, Ph.D. Sasha Ospina, executive director. Circle Pines Center Shari Carney Shauna Swantck Shawn Winters Stephanie Fekkes Terry Dennison 'fhe Shack Thomapple Area Enrichment Foundation Thomapple Arts Council Board and Staff Timothy J. Smith YMCA of Barry’ County Youth Advisory' Council Area School System Luke Haywood Mike Nickels Brad Tolles I FADERS hip for hastingsarea rl rt Luke Hayu^od. Mike Nickels & Ilrud Tolles. 5 Voters should understand what they’re voting for Think about the consequences of who Pick to lead our country problems jnc die opp^.- r°nl‘ng. In actuft'XSMS&S?'-........ ,n.$,ei,<*h10veUAm'rii^^ *od«ion AC* h medical equij^P*' t’c.Hluce enough jestin'’ lint 0 ‘d’le to do ran 0111 ofbac^.-d" |0r8(e "nd hot dogs. These plants are J ^ding COVID-19 and hundreds < h Wcre infected and spread the virus ‘ « ily members and oth- CtThis is a *"^ny of |lis supporlcrs claim they voted <or of his *p 1)usi. ncss sense. He P’"‘™ '«hw to write a hook telling about Self-made million­ aire when he actua > |n()[e $400 million as a <-h Id from hK fa|hcr thni shaky legal interpretations; t His history of not payiflg he cgn traded to do work lor hint and not repaving loans made it so that he eventually could not find banks in the u.b. thal Wouk| wjlh him. That is how- Irumpcntled up bcing a customer of Deutsche Bank.an institution lhat frequently figured m conimversics and allega­ tions of deceitful behavior Or illegal transac­ tions. This bank is suspected of laundering money from Russian oligarchs and other des­ pots from around lhe world.The fact lhat we recently learned that our president is in debt for more than $300 million to parties he won't divulge makes him very vulnerable to outside influences. The name Putin immediately comes to mind. Trump continually lies to lls that he can’t release his income tax records because he is under audit. This is totally- false. The reason he is being audited is because he claimed a $73 million tax refund some year.-, back. This re!mid has been under investigation for nine years, a process that usually takes three weeks. Using his influence, he has been able to Mall the process. What really gets rne is how people who consider themselves upstanding Christian believers could support this guy. A Pew Research Poll show s that 72 percent of white evangelical Protestants approve of Trump’s work as president and 59 percent strongly approx e. We’re talking about a person who is the literal example of the old adage. “How do you know when a politician is lying? When his lips are mo\ ing.” This is a man who is a self-admitted sexual predator, who paid glamorous women for sex while his w ife was pregnant with their child. This is a man who always calls anyone names who doesn’t see things his way.’This “law and order” president incites his white supremacist followers to commit violence on peaceful protesters. This has hit very close to home with lhe alleged plot to kidnap our governor. His administration has weakened nursing home safety regulations during a pandemic. They brag about destroying safely controls on pesticides, coal ash. other sickening emis­ sions, not to mention global-warming denial - and on and on. It appears to me that these supporters care nothing of lhe character of our leader and lhe harm that he has done - and w ill continue to do if re-elected - only that he has filled up the Supreme Court with extremist, right-wing justices. I can’t help but think that they have made a deal with lhe devil, so to speak. Please think hard about the real conse­ quences of who you want lo lead our country. Tom McCarty, Bellevue Keep your friends mid relatives informed and up to date with all the local news from Bam/ County. Send them... The Hastings BANNER To subscribe, call us at: 269-945-9554 'Io the editor: 1 am a Christian, and I know God jn control. Wc can only do what IF; allow* lo do. Our country was founded on Christian principles. Our form of government is the best there is, so I am floored at how many people arc willing to throw it all away. This is what our forefathers fought and died for. 1 believe many people don’t really understand (he definition of socialism. Socialism is lhe government telling you w,hat to do. while democracy is the people lelbrtg the government what to do. t The young people now want free stuff They are actually going to pay for it out pf their taxes. Our government doesn’t make anything to “sell’ to make money. The government gets its money from “we. the people.” « 1 see signs saying: “Wc live on Main Street, not Wall Street.” If it wasn’t for Wall Street, there would be no Main Street. > Freedom isn’t even “free.” It had to be fought for. When 1 was a senior in high school, in 1965, J would cry when "The Star-Spangled Banner" was sung. I signed up for lhe Peace Corps. ;‘ After 9/TI, Ann Graham. Billy Grahatji’s daughter, w as on a talk show. She was asked why God allowed 9/11 to happen. She sdiil. “Being the gentleman he is. he allowed .it because America asked God to get out of our schools and out of our lives.” '• Be careful what we ask for - or vole for*, We may get what wc don’t understand.; Elaine Hamilton, Battle Creek Time to tell > president: : ‘You’re fired’ £ To the editor: \ ; Once upon a time in 2016. many A merits thought they would “shake up the system^ or be choosing the lesser of two evils by voting for Donald Trump. । That was thousands of lies ago. That vtas tens of thousands of deaths ago. That Xias millions of lost jobs and vanished opportunities for our young people ago. 11 Donald Trump will never be competent than he is now, Donald Trump Mill never become more compassionate than he fs now. Donald Trump will never have (He capacity to put our country before his ov^n narrow political needs or his precious bottom line. t The only way we can rescue our country’ from the dire straits that confront us in,* so many areas is to have people of good se/i$e and good conscience recognize that on 5joy. 3. it is time to say to Donald Trump: “You’re fired!” Mark Bonsignorc, Deltdn ELDEN SKUENURGEII • Honest •Transparent • Integrity •Trustworthy JUST vote ELDEN on Nov. 3’0 for Hastings School Board I w • '>999 N M-53 nwy Hasnngs. Ml 49058 •parttwhyEMenSI'O-.^M'' ___ �Page f’acefi - Thursday. Oewbw 29.2080-Th. H«»W> Banner . . A A DOllCICS A M^hi<yan Heall Healthcare Systems issue jOjfnvMtors.statement on COv’u ** h i( .... IVIlCnlgdn interventions in lacilnies, illu| । Wc ask COVin-19 surge, will.suffer aJ<lili<>nal^'s h“^“nced your ^P/^^XP’lu.ntrol by ...... «l front 0»rfront in our pibcies .<> h It j(is. :’As the physician leaders of hospitals and in cd order <o fight the sprc-ul • ( .)in healthcare systems throughout the state of imperative that every WIlt Ihe Michigan, representing 110 of Michigan's us in taking the necessary st p hospitals, wc have an important safety spread of this deadly disease. j(| iriesKagc regarding COVID-19. Our hospitals and healthcare t.ici1 ties win We want to make it clear that, regardless of continue requiring staff. Pa,ienls; in,.i,'1(|inP sthte law. executive orders, or local public health directives, hospitals and healthcare systems across the state arc standing as a unit- MDHHS launches media campaign promoting free mental wellness counseling “Stay Well counselors help people , Mental health experts nt the Michigan understand their feelings and reactions during IkT.Jrtment of Health and Human Services a disaster like the COVID-19 pandemic,” said arc; launching a statewide media campaign psychiatrist Dr. Debra Finals, .MDHHS week urginp residents to seek relief from COVID-19-related emotional distress by medical director for behavioral health. "While they are not licensed mental health talking to a trained crisis counselor and professionals, they have undergone training learning about other help available. The” “Be Kind to Your Mind” campaign provided by the federal Substance Abuse and promotes the use of Michigan s free, Mental Health Services Administration on confidential Stay Well counseling line, and how to help people mentally rebound from aims to combat stigma associated with seeking disasters." Finals said Stay Well counselors arc taught help for feelings of depression, anxiety, anger or loss - all common during an adversity like to listen, not judge, and help callers develop coping strategies, review their options und COVID-19. Die Stay Well counseling line debuted connect with agencies that may help them. All May 13. and is staffed with crisis counselors of this can reduce callers’ stress and improve 24’hours a day. seven days a week. Callers their ability to endure the realities they face, may access the line by dialing Michigan’s she said. According to a report prepared by COVID-19 hotline. 888-535-6136. and pressing “8” al the prompt. The service is part lhe Behavioral Health and Developmental of- a federally funded grant program Disabilities Administration grant team, callers i implemented by (he MDHHS Behavioral to the Stay Well line are experiencing a range Hpalth and Developmental Disabilities of emotions. They are anxious about Administration in partnership with the contracting the coronavirus, having a loved one contract the virus, and keeping their Michigan State Police. l’“Many of us are having a hard time right children and/or parents safe. They arc n<5w.“ MDHHS Director Robert Gordon said. discouraged about continued unemployment, ■ flerv should be zero shame and zero stigma worried about going back to work in an -||)st honesty that can help each of us find our unsafe environment, and lonely due to lack of oMi inner strength. ‘Be Kind to Your Mind’ social interaction. Many callers expressed says you can talk about the strain from gratitude for being able to talk to someone CBVID with trained counselors who are who was objective and non-judgmental. available for free if you call 888-535-6136 Language translation is available for nonarid press 8, or visit Michigan.gov/StayWell." English-speaking residents who call the BzXccording to a recent online survey of counseling line. “This sen ice is one of the many steps 94|XX) households conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, more than one-third of .MDHHS has taken to support the public’s American adults report symptoms of behavioral health during these stressful and dwrcssivc and/or anxiety disorder — triple uncertain times.” said Allen Jansen, MDHHS rate reported in 2019. Another survey Behavioral Health and Developmental cigducted by lhe U.S. Centers for Disease Disabilities Administration senior deputy CMitrol in June found more than one in 10 director. “COVID-19 has impacted most ’s mental health in one way or adults had.. considered in the ____ past everyone . suicide .. ... . '(rdays.Thai rate was more than double what another, and we are here to help.' report eci iii 2019. * Worship Together ...at the church of your choice Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH An Expression Of Who Jesus Is To The World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy.. P.O. Box 8. Hastings, telephone 269-945­ 9121. Email hactfmefa gmail. ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. 269-945-4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip. Mass 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Mass 8 and II a.m. Sunday. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Matt Moser. Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service: Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday. Family Night 6:30-8 p.m.. Kids 4 Truth (Children Kindergartcn-5th Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information. freemethodist awn. Pastor Brian Teed, Student Ministries Director, Emma Miller, Worship Director. Martha Stoctzel. Sunday Morning Worship: 9am ;tnd 10.30 a.rn. beginning June 2! until further notice. Due lo the current health crisis, our nursery is temporarily closed and ue arc temporarily suspending all Children’s ministries. Our church sanctuary is set tip for social distancing. We do not require wearing masks, but do encourage it, especially while walking through the building before and after services. Please keep your family together during the worship service. Wc are a multi-generational church family and understand that while this WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4837 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel-chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a m. Youth activities: call for information. could mean outbursts or potty­ breaks, we arc n<Xinconvenienced by your little one. In an effort to help you. are providing weekly activity bags fur each child. These bags arc to be taken home or disposed of after each CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616 690-8609. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd . P.O. Box 273. Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scon Price. Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling. Ml 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 10 am. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Phone 945-2654. W’orship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 765. (comer of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton. MI 49(N6. Pastor Roeer Claypool, (517) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11:30am, Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 to 7:30 pm. of lhese.. thrrt everyone >!<> H,."'version ol '■ . .... precaution,: Wc.|t -^blu fcasl 6 feel ■■pan. avoid crow,,our hands frequenUy. We d,, w“, „ lr patients, visitors and liealih ° s tn k r. In recent.'Veeh^J^^cbviU-W cases trending „)TO *>•>' • rc„j(>ns of the state, and hosp^ surged by more than 80 Elions . ‘’U''°Ur another capacity v 1 Iherapisis^nd doctors and nurses I and custjvif,x>d services ;uid support Staff. „! * ■;. -r to recover from the t^X ^f the initial Barbara Jean Woodard, age 65 of Sears, passed away in Grand Rapids on Ibcsd.iy. Oct. 27. 2020. She was bom on August 4. 1955 in Hastings the daughter of Lyle and Phyllis (Bugbee) Vuney. Barb graduated from VermontvilleMiplc Valley in 1973. Barb co-owned nd operated the gas station on the con« of US 10 and M66, Yarger’s Comers bcN^ selling to Blarney Castle. Even alter t^esah she continued lo manage lhe store for 18 yc^rs. Barb was a hard-worker and always kept a tidy house. She loved to fish, garden, go kayaking and tubing on the river and most of all- being at lhe ocean! Barb led by example and believed in being the best person you can be. She voted for the underdog and stuck up for wh 00 s right. Her friendly personality and ability to love everybody will not be forgotten by the family she leaves behind. Left lo treasure her memory are her mother, Phyllis Freese of Hastings; beloved husband. Carl “Woody”; son, David (fiancee, Tara Cichewicz); stepsons. Ed (MaryJo) Woodard of Stanton and Chuck Woodard of Sumner; stepdaughters. Amy (Lonny) Hansen of Belding and Amanda Woodard of Ithaca; sisters, Patricia (Jack) Cook of Fort Pierce. FL. Carol (Pat) Lewis of Middleville and Deb Seeber of Woodland; brothers. Steven Varney of Delton and Scott Varney of Nashville; brother-in-law. Les (Linda) Woodard of Sears. 13 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and friends. Barb was preceded in death by her father and stepmother. Lyle and Norma Varney of Nashville and her stepdad. Robert “Bob” Freese of Hastings. Being outside and in lhe warmth of the sun. Barb found peace. Due to the pandemic and colder weather ahead, a celebration of life will be held in the summer of 2021. Until then please offer vour condolences by clicking the guestbook tab on Barb’s page, al the Corey Funeral Home in Evart’s website, www.coreyfuneralhome.com ............... and..................................... risk their own infection, illness, and mor­ tality. If Michigan doesn’t change if s approach to this disease, wc could have crowded hospi­ tal emergency departments and approach exceeding the capacity of our hospitals as we did in Southeast Michigan this past spring. l he decision to continue these safety mea­ sures is driven by data and guidance from healthcare experts, not politics. Public health draws on data to chart lhe route from where we are now. to where we need to go. It keeps hospitals and healthcare facilities safe places for patients to receive both routine and emer­ gency care as needed. These measures also will prevent another catastrophic surge in Joyce (Harrington, Cruttenden) Phelan, age 93. passed away on October 22,2020. Joyce was bom on February 19, 1927, the daughter of Edward Leo Harrington and Donna (Welton, Harrington) Wilkins. Joyce was a 1944 graduate of Hastings High School. She was a member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church and the Order of the Eastern Star. She had been a den. mother and was instrumental in establishing the Plcasantview Scout Troup. She was a master gardener and enjoyed watching birds and butterflies and spending time with her family. Joyce was preceded in death bv her parents; her stepfather, Lloyd Wilkins; husband, C. Alvin Cruttenden; second husband, Phillip Phelan; son. Charles Cruttenden; her sisters, Jane Sanborn, Priscilla Phelan, Jean Kimmel, Patricia Leckrone, and Sue Babcock. She is survived by her daughter. Diana (Michael) Javor; son, Colin (Lou Ann) Cruttenden; step-daughter, Gail (Kilboum) Snow; step-son, Terry (Mary) Phelan; grandchildren, Timothy (Stacy) Cruttenden. Kelli Cruttenden. Spring (Wayne Shance) Javor and Samuel Javor, great-grandsons. Ian and Caleb Cruttenden. Cremation has taken place. A private family service will be held Thursday, Oct, 29, 2020 at 11 a m. at Emmanuel Episcopal Church. 315 W. Center St., Hastings, MI 49058 with interment to follow- at Hastings Township Cemetery’. 2475 McKeown Rd.; Hastings, MI 49058. The service will be live-streamed. and a link will be provided at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net when available. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Emmanuel Episcopal Church. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. BARRY COUNTY. Ml l u Nx-vlul day t° bring you to my mind niOfn ‘‘“not thbik ufym arc vejy hurd to find. Mv h < u ’t *hcn 1 “wuJ<c 1 k"°* th‘“ >vu arc 8‘”w. t n sfil| * j die heartache as I iry h, clrT). <>n It ? ks "fth sadness und .secret tears will fitm. “‘Win, u k‘*nt to h»e >ou nu one will Ufr “ hft-1 |,v “ht.ns with 5oU« .vmm place no one aui fill. “k‘yuu dearly, hi death 1 Imc pm still. r llv 1301W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 - Chief Medical Officers and Chief Clinical Officers ofMichigan Healthcare Systems and Hospitals. Hemani Fancher Barkhuff, age 77, passed away October 21. 2020 in Athens, TN. Bernard was born April 19. 1943. the son of Frank and Sylvia (Roush) Barkhuff. He was a 1961 graduate of Hastings High School. Bernard joined the United States Air Force in 1961 retiring in 1984 with over 22 years of service, serving in the Vietnam War. In 196-1 he married Sandra Gittus and was married for seven years. Bernard was a lifetime member of American Legion Post 45 in Hastings and the VFW. He enjoyed spending time with his family and eating out. He would help anyone in need. He was stationed in many countries during his service time and retired with the rank of Master Sergeant from the US Air Force. He was an airplane mechanic and at one point worked on US Thunderbirds jets at Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas, NV. Bernard was preceded in death by his dad in 1963, his mom in 1999, half-brother Terry in 1948, his aunts Jennie Treat, Pearl Woods. Lily Roush, and uncles Elmer Roush. Henry Roush. Bernard is survived by his two daughters. Dee Dee (Joe) Baker, Kalamazoo, Jennifer (Doug) Halladay. Richland; granddaughters, Josie (Robert) Lewis, Otsego, Brianna Baker, Kalamazoo. Mackenzie Baker, Kalamazoo; great-granddaughters. Charleigh, Natalie Lewis, Otsego; his half­ brother, Dale (Mandy) Hollister. Hillsdale, and half-sister, Everlyn Abler, Hillsdale. /X service will be held on Saturday. Oct. 31. 2020 at 11 a.m. with visitation one-hour prior at Girrbach Funeral Home, 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Interment to follow at Striker Cemetery with military honors provided by Haslings Post 45 American Legion. In lieu of Howers, donations can be made to assist with funeral expenses. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfunenilhome.net. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses:_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 trol. Joyce (Cruttenden) Phelan use. 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 ill during the pandemic. Together. we can get to where we want to lx*: keeping this dangerous virus under con­ Bernard Fancher Barkhuff David Eltzrotli'U 11/6/B4-10/30/01 .. exfob butHelp we necu —under , control by keepyour COVID ...19 doing what you can to prevent more illness and hospitalization. Support our dedicated and courageous healthcare staff as they con­ tinue lhe right against COVID-19 for those patients who have the misfortune of becoming < FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER Join the FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER OF BARRY COUNTY Join our last-paced and fun working environment to make a difference in our community. We have an opening for a Family Support Center Program Manager. Coordinate and deliver family and community programming to help build safe and nurturing family and community environments. Incumbent will have a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Early Childhood, Family Studies, Child Development or comparable experience. We offer a flexible schedule of 120 hours per month, including some evenings. Incumbent must have valid driver’s license and insurance. Background clearance is required. Experience in parent education curriculums is helpful. Please send resumes to llnda@JamllysuppQrlbarry,GQm by NQVJEMBERA2Q2& �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 29, 2020 — Page 7 fl look back at the, stories and columns on local History •_ - • -- TURNING BflGK THE PAGES Barry County in the Spanish-American War Thefollowing is thefirst of a six-part series compiled by the late Joyce Weinbrechr and published in The Banner from mid-August to early October 1998. . Although the Spanish-American War lasted just four months in 1X98, issues that contributed lo the war happened decades earlier. During lhe 1860s. Spain was under a succession of governing bodies, and Cuba suffered from mismanagement by every one of them, as well as the Spaniards and Colonial masters. Taxes were heavy, and were used to support Spanish officials and keep a strong army and navy. The Cuban people received very little aid from the Spaniards and had no say in any governing matters. Cubans revolted several times against the Spanish dictators, but nothing changed as a result, and. in fact, it gpt worse. The ship Virginias. flying the U.S. flag and carrying men. arms, supplies and horses to the insurgents in Cuba, was seized on lhe high seas by Spain in 1873. Fifty-three passengers and crew, some of them Americans, were executed before the British intervened. The settlement of the affair was reached with the Spanish government finally letting the remaining prisoners go. and offering to pay an $80,000 indemnity. The ship was returned to the United States, but pros ed to be unseaworthy and sank before reaching port. This event did not go well with the citizens of the United States. Conditions in Cuba did not improve over lhe next 25 years. In 1894. a business depression in 1894 made conditions there even worse. In 1895. another revolution began. The Spanish governor Valeriano Wcyler y Nicolau tried to put down the revolution by placing Cubans in concentration camps where women and children suffered, and many died of starvation. The rebelling Cubans fought back by destroying sugar cane fields and sugar mills owned by the Spanish, which were lhe most profitable of the colony’s exports. American newspapers reported all of the atrocities in the papers in lhe United States and, at times, exaggerated them. Public opinion concerning Spain and Cuba flared in anger, and caused strong anti-American sentiment in Cuba. When the USS Maine was sent to Havana in response to U.S. Consul Fitzhugh Lee’s call for help Jan. 12, 1898. it was interpreted by lhe Spanish as a menace to them and encouragement to the insurgents. Relations worsened in early February after a letter from Spanish ambassador Enrique Dupuy de Lome was stolen from lhe mail at Havana and published in William Randolph Hearst's New York Journal. The letter commented lhat President William McKinley was a spineless politician. Hie letter resulted in the recall of Senor Del-ome by the Spanish government. The comments were taken as an insult by U.S. government officials, who demanded an apology. Spain issued an apology. However, lwo days later, at 9:40 p.m. Feb. 15. the Maine was destroyed by an explosion in Havana harbor. l\vo officers and 264 sailors were killed. Americans were certain lhe ship had been blown up the Spanish placing mines in lhe harbor. In lhe meantime. Gen. Ramon Blanco was appointed governor of Cuba Things grew even worse. The American press, led by Hearst, sent Frederic Remington to Cuba to draw action pictures for the zVc'ir York Journal. So convinced lhat there would be war with Spain, the United Slates believed that its Asiatic Squadron, located al Manila Bay in the Philippines, must be kept under observation, although they were old and rusting ships. Sen. Henry Cabot Lodge of Massachusetts wrote to a friend al the American embassy in London: “We have a battleship in the harbor of Havana. There could be an invasion any day in Cuba which would settle a great many things." He could not have realized how prophetic these words would come to be. With the sinking of the USS Maine, the lid was off, and war was declared in April 1898; the first shot was fired April 22. Under provisions of the Voluntary Army Act. the 1st Volunteer Cavalry, or "Rough Riders.” was organized under Col Leonard Wood and Lt. Col. Theodore Roosevelt Roosevelt, resigned from his position as assistant secretary' of lhe Navy to lead the volunteers. President McKinley called for 125,000 volunteers April 23.1898. However, for every' 10 men who volunteered, only one could be accepted. A second call for 75.000 volunteers was issued May 25, 1898. The day after the president issued his first call for volunteers. Commodore George This artisl ?oqgP^rt'°,n °* American soldiers in >838 Deludes a Medical Departmenl ©Nicer an,nery priva|0 an(J litter bearers at a neia hospita| in Cuba Dewey was Jeered Iproceed to the Philippines and <*-1- Ute destruction of the Spanish fleet. To the slogan R^nicniber |Jw Mainc« Americans respon e ln Senljment an(j support lor the war. Congress authorized the governors of each state to call up the slate militiasw and the first 125.000 men were quickly enlisted for twoyear terms of service. In Michigan, live regiments Were Ivcruittf(1 quickly. Many Were still active following the U.S. Civil \yar National Guard of Michigan bad the 31st. 32nd. 33rd, 34th and 35th regiments. Only the 33rd and 34th Michigan National Guard Infantry units actually made it to Cuba in June and July 1898. The 31st Regiment later served in lhe occupation forces of Cuba The 32nd and 35th regiments remained in the United Slates. Of lhe 6,700 men w ho served in these regiments. 250 died. Most of the deaths were a result of disease, not from battle action. Barry County had men in all five of the regiments, especially in Company K of the 35th. Men who wanted to enlist were carefully screened. They had to be in good physical condition. They underwent a physical examination, in which most rejections were for defective vision or for imperfect feet |bad feet, such as a hammertoe, corns on the bottom of the foot, one toe lapping under another, a previous broken leg. varicose veins, disqualified lhem for enlistment. And they could not join if they had a widowed mother who was dependent for support. • The Michigan units vA.re sent to Camp' Eaton, the Island Lake canp near Brighton |now a state recreation area] to be prepared for the anticipated battle in Cuba. They were to stay at the training camp for about one month. . The regiments were mustered in April 28. 1898. and had supper at about 8 that night. The meal was bread, steak and coffee. They had not had anything to cal since morning and were quite hungry. They had spent four hours on parade ground in drill as soon as they got off the trains. They were then given three blankets each and sent to lhe tents A day in camp started with reveille at 5:30 a.m. Exercises, which consisted of sit-ups and push-ups, preceded lhe call to breakfast. The day was filled with battalion- and company­ level drills, marching, guard duty, kitchen police and other duties soldiers must do to maintain a military camp. The men became proficient at drilling. Families could visit and watch as the men passed in review. The soldiers could get 48-hour furloughs and visit home from time to time. The tents hud wooden platforms and straw ticks for mattresses. Usually eight men were assigned to a tent. The men were moved to the southern camps by passenger trains sent from Camp Chickamauga. Ga.. The Michigan Central Railroad moved the cars in Michigan. The horses belonging to the field officers were mustered into the service of the U.S. Army and prepared for shipping, and the tents, horses, and other equipment that would be needed in the new camps were loaded on the trains as they arrived. As they moved south in lhe middle of May 1898. the heat became quite oppressive to lhese northern soldiers. Along the route, they were given coffee, buttermilk and sandwiches, along with American flags and flowers at the stations along lhe route, and heard lhe slogan "Remember the Maine.” Strawberries .sold for 10 cent:, a quart, and many of the soldicti invested a dime or two since Michigan berries' weren’t ripe when they left Michigan. In southern training camps, the Michigan regiments encountered some sentiments leh over from the Civil War. Newspaper correspondents, who would accompany the troops going south, were not to send any articles to any newspaper except the ones listed on their passports, and a copy of the paper each correspondent represented must be mailed to the press censor for examination. Once the men arrived in the southern camps at Chickamauga. Ga., Falls Church, Va., Mobile, Ala., Tampa, Fla., and San Francisco, Calif., there was a great deal of confusion. 'Hie uniforms lhe men were issued were of heavy blue woolen cloth, not suitable for the tropics. Blankets, leggings, hats, shoes, underwear, socks, knapsacks, canteens, belts and medical supplies were in very short supply for this suddenly swollen army. The Rough Riders unit was well armed and disciplined, and was one of the best volunteer cavalry units ever assembled. However, the Rough Riders were never issued cavalry mounts; only the officers had horses. The unjt, still called the Rough Riders, did all of ijs fighting on foot. To be continued. . Sources for this series include research by the late Harland and Nyla Nye; TUming Point for America. Irving Wersteine; VFW', September 1998: Hastings Banner archives. 1898 and 1914; Nashville News 1898; New Standard Encyclopedia 1958; The World Book. 1950; Angels of lhe Battlefield, the Life of Clara Barton, Harper anil Brothers, New York. 1956; Michigan Public Acts 190f 223. .. , NOTICE: SEEKING APPLICATIONS FOR VOLUNTEERS The Barry County Board of Commissioners is seeking applications from volunteers to serve on the following Boards/Commissions: AniniaLShelter; 4 citizen at large BuUdlng_AulhJ2£iiyi 1 position Gonssr^atloirEaseinenLBQard; 1 each: agricultural Interest, conservation Interest Commission on Aging: 4 positions Community Corrections. AcMsory Board: 1 each: general public, service area, communications, business community, criminal defense attorney, workforce community MeotalHealth^utliority; 1 member Parks & Recreation Commission: 2 citizen at large BoacLCommlsslon: 1 position Veteran’s Affairs: 2 positions Applications may be obtained at the County Administration Office, 3rd floor of the Courthouse. 220 W. State St., Hastings; or www.banycounty.org under the tab: How do I apply for: A position on an Advisory Board or Commission and click on apply; and must be returned no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, November 16, 2020. Contact 269-945-1284 for more information. = 149619 hope township BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ROLL CLOVERDALE, WILKINSON, JONES (MUD) LAKES AQUAT,CP^^ THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS Ob PERS°NS: TO: V . have prepared and filed in the office of the h PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Township 5u^™“7"d^propcrte$ within the Cloverdale. Wilkinson. Jones Township Clerk for public examination a special 2020-2 benefited by the proposed aquabc plant control proiect (Mud) Lakes Aquatic Plant Control Special Assessmenthe proJect within the aforesaid specla ££ The roil has been prepared for the purpose of «««'"8^XheTownship Clerk. The costs of the pro.ect are as shown onfihe which district is more particularly shown on the P an hi Hall 5453 s M-43 Hwy, Hastings, c h district estimate of costs on file with the Township Clerk at««J~en,' We amount assessed against each pmpertyIn thedrstrtet $335,580, which Is the amount to be p^, ear for back lots. If extra funds are ’^"ijear or to authorise will be $408.00 per year for front lots and $204. P assessment of a lesser amou special assessment, the Township Board reserves the r ght to levy speda| asscssment will be five yea . the carry-over of surplus funds to a new special asses through 2024 inclusive. have further reported to the Township OR1C SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR REGIMENTS This was once the summer mmr. of Michigan’s National Guard in 1898 the five regiments whfch were recruited in the state dudno the war with Spam were organized Ten men volunteered for everv anJ who could be accepted. Two Sr units, thesaw 33rd and in 34th Michlr,™ Infantry, action Cuba dun^ June and July. 1896. in the fiXfe around Santiago. The 3!st Regimen? served in the occupation of The 32nd and 35th remained in <4 United States. Of the nearly R yon men who served in these recline,* Z50 were fatalities. Most of the? deathsbattle resulted from disease ’ not from action. Hwy. Hastings. Ml on Tuesday. November 10, 2020 pr revised of amended, pleas“ take notice that If any obiections thereto and confirming the |a) distancing requirements regardl^g undertake such meeting required to wear masks (if able) and to complymcertng/puWic hear.ng vrrtualh-.« the Township is otherwise authorized to underta *uch meeting will be posted on th Ofmation Via ZOOM Video conference and Instructions for access B for th(_ most up.t0.date info ma • corn Please contact the undersigned or consult t e business days of regular business days until during bus.nes fol| $hall We hls/her The roll may be examined al the office o the h Township Clerk Any per50regular n objecting to t o' the time of the hearing and may further be examinedI at the^ or such other «me as the P the Township Board may objections in writing with the Township Clerk be or grant- . test at the hearing in the special assessment PLEASE TAKE FURTHER Ti^ of the | cessment *. or rnay f,leAn his/her n. ..ed N NOTICE thatspecia appearance and Pto the . Mi h5ganTax Tribunal. ownerappearance or party in proceedings is required in order to appeal the« thc speC1al assess required. Pl o^ER NOTICE^solution that afterfor thepayment public he 8, ments witb for interest; may provide pLEASE TAKE FURTHER of spec.a olution such other matters by as submitted or as revised or amended; may P“*v d X(ore a date certain; and may pt-de by resoluti resolution for payment of special assessments aqu3tic plant contro pr J arc permitted by law with regard lo SP«|3' a5'e . , <u?.._en, is confirmed at or following the above public n™^ -rUPR NOTICE thatinif the a real property’-|H .pedatly assessed mayssment file a written appeal of the .... ,He. „LEASE TAKE FUR hX in interest spccia| aS5e roll. hearing, a property owner or any person av . special assessment with the Michigan Tax Tribun. uh|n 30 days after con rm services to individuals with disabilities at the hearing u■*°Pe Township will provide noct .»<«rv- reasonable auxiliary a<ds0 address upon seven (7) days’ notice to the Towns P . ne number listed below. ^opE t0wnSHIP Deborah Jackson, Clerk 5463 S M-43 Highway Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-2464 A state National historic Guard sign marks Camp Eaton, near Brighton’s |S|and . Michigan was organized in 1898. 1 Lake . where the « interest, or his or her agent, may appear at the hea ’Appearance at the public hearing shall no M and protest by |ener before the hearing, and in mas Iownship Board may confirm the rob as hflB£iy^l^imn£i �MATTERS Medicare Part B online L564 to 1-833-914 2016: or return Vonda Van Til mail to your local Socia,^77n’V<TrY 800Ptddie A/fi tirs Spec ialt st Soctal Security. 800-772-1213 (IB For many people, signing up for Medicare 325-0778), if you have any questions. Part B doesn’t require leaving the comfort of When completing the tonus: to home. • State. “I want Part B coverage j Visit our Medicare Part B webpage at of Secure .ssj.gov/ncutaphandlci loginSuccess if begin (MM-YY)” in the remarks section the CMS-40B form or online application. you’re emulled in Medicare Part A and if you • If your employer is unable to com­ would like to enroll in Part B during the spe­ plete Section B, complete that portion as bes cial enrollment period. , % you can on behalf of your employer wilhou . You can complete form CMS-40B your employer’s signature. .1 (Application for Enrollment tn Medicare -­ • Submit one of the following types o! part B (Medical Insurance!) at Medicare CMS-borms/CMS-Forms ( MS- secondary evidence by uploading it from a l .'tms licms CMS017.W and CMS-L564 at saved document on your computer: - Income tax returns that show health 6ns.gov.Medicate CMS-FomtVCMSFdmtv insurance premiums paid. b.twnloadv-CMS l-SMH pdf (Request lor - W-2s reflecting pre-tax medical contribu­ t-mptoyment Information) online. You'aU. can fax the CMS-40B and < MS- tions. "Ca"h inS“ranCe effedve dal Wi'h “ IX’,iC> or I rGHp’"a,i°"X °(Paid by "’e • Statements Ur n«n< <>l health haI n.|kel pay- Yawning out the tears Please let yl)tl[ d lowd ones know about th1s1),1|h£L™i| or fas option. VMMh' “lfair' SptM‘? <■ You inuv write her do WGnnuIR^ 3045 A I.. (rand Raptds Sfijgs^S or entail vonda. IYW»fM<«:.V.W.gov. J Marriage /licenses Phillip Andrew Wilder Jr.. Hastings and I^ura Marie Hause. Hastings . Haley Ann Raalz. Hastings and Zachary' Robert Scholzen. Hastings Paul Jacob Haney. Middleville and Casey Jo Lawson. Middleville Sandra June Chaffee. Hastings and James Eugene Trout. Battle Creek Trevor James Learmont. Middleville and Victoria Elizabeth Irw in. Allendale Michael Xavier Sanchez. Nashville and Hay lee Grace Scott. Nashville Call 269-945-9554 “ tor Hastings Banner | classified ads Elaine Garlock AH Saints Day will be observed at Central United Methodist Church Sunday at 10:30 a.m. The election is the chief topic of interest for yet another week. The event next week will greatly reduce the number of incoming telephone calls. For the post of county commissioner, our incumbent is Karen Banks who was chosen to replace her husband, James Banks, after he resigned due to health concerns. She is now being challenged by a Democrat Nelson Brown. This is the only contest for the Ionia County Board. There are contests for scats on the Lake Odessa Village Council. Incumbents are Charles Jaquays. who has served several years. Mike Rudesill did not respond to the questionnaire. Those running for the open posts are Carrie Johnson, Terri Cappon and the incumbents Rudesill and Jacquays. Rob Young is a write-in candidate. Another contest of interest is that of membership on the Lakewood school board. Jamie Brodbeck-Krenz is an incumbent. She has served several years. Kerry Possehn was appointed midterm and is running for another term. Melissa McClelland is hoping to finish her term. Paige O’Mara is a write-in candidate. Lakewood Community Council is accepting applicants for its Christmas baskets. Applicants are asked to submit name, address, ages ot children, special needs, gender of children, and send to PO Box 485, Lake Odessa. Baskets will be packed Dec. 8-11 and delivered Dec. 12. Early application is advised. Area churches are being solicited to fill the needs and requirements in advance. The deadline to apply js Nov. 20. State Rep Julie Callcy is visiting Lake Odessa Monday. Oct. 26, for an hour in the forenoon She will be in Heatings later in the day. She welcomes any concern pertaining to state government The local library i$ ready for Halloween w ith plans Friday, (kt. 30 at 7 pan for a Zoom program presented by the Ionia County Association. Then Stturday, from 9 to 11:50 a.m.. there will be udx’rty at the library led by Mr. Mike. Dr. Universe: Why do we get tears when we yawn? Ella. 8. Australia Dear Ella. You re right, a lot of people get tears when they yawn. When you yawn, you actually use lot of muscles in your face. Maybe you can leel the stretch in jour jaw, cheeks and eyes. As the muscles in your face contract, they can pul a lot of pressure on the plumbing sys­ tem that is in charge of making your tears. I hat’s what 1 found out from my friend Karin Biggs, an adjunct professor al Washington Stale University who teaches anatomy. She told me that wc have two little almond-shaped structures called the tear glands, or the lachrimal glands, that pro­ duce our tears. These glands are located near the eyelids, and it is likely they are making tears at this very moment. “Tears are made all the time,’’ Biggs said. “They are responsible for keeping our eyes moist, helping us see and keeping our eyes healthy.” Meanwhile, you also have two tiny tubes near the inside comer of your eyes. These lubes, or lachrimal canals, are where the tears can exit your eyes as you yawn. Like a very slow faucet, the teary fluid is constantly being released from the gland. Gravity pulls the fluid dow n and around the eye. You might think of it like putting a ball in your bathroom sink then running the water faucet over it. The faucet is your gland, the drain is where tears exit, and the ball is the eye. all kinds of things. Biggs -aid sometimes people have muscles that other to be missing. The plantans must c in knee is one of them. About 10 percent of people do not have this muscle, but they usually seem to lx* fine without it. But tear ducts and tear glands in our eyes are among the many body parts humans have in common. This plumbing system helps you create, transport and drain all your tears. The ability to make (ears is all a part of the human experience. But other animals like cats and elephants can make tears, too. Tears are mostly water with some other ingredients that help keep our eyes in good shape. Whether your tears come from crying, sneezing, laughing or yawning, they are often a good sign your body is taking care of you and that your eyes are working well. Dr. Universe Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University’s resident scientist and writer at Dr.Universe(dwsu.edu nr visit her website, askdruniversecom. 421 W. Woodlawn Avo. Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-3553 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ROLL WALL LAKE AQUATIC PLANT CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DIST. 2020-1 THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF HOPE TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN ANO ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Township Supervisor and Assessor have prepared and filed in the office of the Township Clerk for public examination a special assessment roll covering all properties within the Wall Lake Aquatic Plant Control Special Assessment District No. 2020-1 benefited by the proposed aquatic plant control project. The roll has been prepared for the purpose of assessing the costs of the project within the aforesaid special assessment district, which district is more particularly shown on the plans on file with the Township Clerk. The costs of the project are as shown on the estimate of costs on file with the Township Clerk at the Township Hall, 5463 S M-43 Hwy, Hastings, Michigan. The project cost is $150,000, which is the amount to be collected by special assessment, less any costs that will be off-set by carry over of surplus funds from the expiring special assessment district. The amount assessed against each property in the district will be $70 per year for front lots and $30 per year for back lots. If extra funds are available at the end of the term of the special assessment, the Township Board reserves the right to levy an assessment of a lesser amount in the final year or to authorize the carry-over of surplus funds to a new special assessment district. The term of the special assessment will be five years, 2020 through 2024 inclusive. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Supervisor and Assessor have further reported to the Township Board that the assessment against each parcel of land within said district is such relative portion of the whole sum levied against all parcels of land in said district as the benefit to such parcels bears to the total benefit to all parcels of land in said district PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Board will meet at the Hope Township Hall 5463 S M-43 Hwy, Hastings, Ml on Tuesday, November 10, 2020 at 6:00 p.m., for the purpose of reviewing the special assessment roll hearing any objections thereto and confirming the roll as submitted or revised or amended. Meeting/public hearing attendees will be required to wear masks (if able) and to comply with social distancing requirements regarding COVID 19. Please take notice that if the Township is otherwise authorized to undertake such meeting/public hearing virtually, it will likely opt to undertake such meeting via ZOOM video conference and instructions for accessing such meeting will be posted on the Township's website at wv i two corn Please contact the undersigned or consult the township's website for the most up-to-date Information. The roll may be examined at the office of the Township Clerk during regular business days of regular busin the time of the hearing and may further be examined at the hearing. Any person objecting to the assessment roll sMl objections in writing with the Township Clerk before the close of the hearing or within such other time as the Township b ""l he muscles in our bodies can help us do Provided by the Barry County offices of Edward Jones HOPE TOWNSHIP TO: of Ugland 'out of (he tubes. because we have squeezed all of our face at once. Bi..... also said the human face has 43 de". You may squish up a lot of those fee muscles when you sneeze or laugh, Financial FOCUS 149621 BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN •When «e jaun. « until /her rd may grant. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that appearance and protest at the hearing in the sp proceedings is required in order to appeal the amount of the special assessment to the Michigan Tax Tribunal. An o^1 asseSSIT'e?t interest, or his or her agent, may appear at the hearing to protest the special assessment In writing, or may fi|e htsZhn°r °r P3rtY " and protest by letter before the hearing, and in that event, appearance at the public hearing shall not be required7 er appearanCe PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that after the public hearing, the Township Board may c r submitted or as revised or amended; may provide by resolution for payment of special assessments with interest"' the ** resolution for payment of special assessments in full before a date certain; and may provide by resolution for such:. ™ay provide bV are permitted by law with regard to special assessment for aquatic plant control projects. Other matters as PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that if a special assessment is confirmed at or followin hearing a property owner or any person having in interest in the real property specially assessed may h|e a ®the al*ove public special assessment with the Michigan Tax Tribunal within 30 days after confirmation of the special assessment roll^ appenl °f thC 2169 W.M-43-Hwy., Suite A Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 818-0423 Vote for a solid investment strategy Election Day is little more than a week away. As a citizen, you may feel the results will affect many aspects of life in this country. But as an investor, your situation probably won’t change after the votes are counted. No matter who wins, the financial markets may well show some politically driven volatility, but that often happens around elections, and it typically doesn’t last long. But what about the longer term? How' might changes in policy and new legislation affect your investment outlook? To begin, keep in mind that many campaign promises remain just that - promises. And even when some of them are enacted, any ultimate legislation may be quite different from w hat was proposed on the campaign trail. Still, sometime in the future, we could see electionrelated changes that could affect your investment strategy. For example, over the years, we’ve seen many adjustments in the tax rales of capital gains and stock dividends, and it’s likely these rates will change again one day. When that happens, you may need to kxik al the equities portion of your portfolio to see if you w ant to make some adjustments. Many other changes, though, are hard to predict. It’s possible that future legislation could affect specific industries, either positively or negatively. Such moves could also influence the way you look at certain investments, but if you have a diversified portfolio that contains a broad mix of stocks, bonds and other securities, any actions affecting one particular industry probably won’t cause you to significantly adjust holdings invested in other sectors. In any case, while it may Ik* a good idea to keep an eye open for things like tax rale changes or how new policies may affect different market segments, your main emphasis, in terms of your investment decisions, should remain on your goals and what you need to do to achieve them. At least once each year, review your portfolio carefully to make sure your investments arc aligned with your goals, whether (hey arc short-term (a new car. a long vacation and .so on) or long-term (such as college for your children or a comfortable retirement). Periodically, depending on what’s happening in your life and the progress of your investment portfolio, you may need to evaluate your goals to ensure they’re prioritized appropriately to help keep you on track toward achieving what’s most important to you. Over time, your goals may change, too. Perhaps you’ve decided that instead of retiring early and traveling around the world, you now want to turn your hobby into a business. Changing this goal may require a different investment strategy. Or y ou might change your mind about where you want to live - instead of staying in your home, as originally planned, you might downsize and move to a different area. Your goals may change in many ways, all of which may warrant updating your investment strategies. Here’s the key point: \ou re the one electing to make these changes. No matter what happens in this or any other election, be sure to “vole” for the strategies that have the potential for a winning outcome. I his article was written bv Edward Jones far use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Junes. Member SIPC. Hope Township will provide necessary, reasonable auxiliary aids and services to individuals with disabiliw, upon * even (7) days' notice to the Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. nes »t the hearing HOPE TOWNSHIP Deborah Jackson, Clerk 5463 S M-43 Highway Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-2464 hppeJvypcl^fju’Ln.Ql Call any time to place your ; Hastings Banner classified ad 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 - �CAMPAIGN, continued from page 1 jawn-fhe-road thing." he added ••The: commissioners knew that the climate 3 tmllagc was not that great in Banv County, considering the history with the scIhx'I district." he added. “And, if - or as I rtright - when this lads. I think ifs time for this county to consider doing what \Vexlord County did. and quit kicking the can down the road. “Let’s get a jail. 1 el’s build it. And let’s protect om officers. Let’s protect the inmates. । 4's make sure that Sheriff Ixaf can fulfill hrs responsibilities, as the Constitution requires, which means that this board needs to get a jail tor Barry County." In a telephone interview Tuesday afternoon, Ibbotson said Wexford County built a new jail without a millage levy. Instead, it took out a conventional loan which it then paid back through its general fund. This option has been pitched to the county tki.trJ in the past, he said, but was not considered financially feasible V7- . ■ < County Administrator Michael Brown said Wednesday that this idea is not financially Rutland Township resident Joel feasible because the circumstances in Wexford Ibbotson chides the Barry County com­ County arc not comparable to Barry County. missioners for their handling of the jail tax request on the Nov. 3 ballot. [Photos by Rebecca Pierce] J 0 AblAf A, “__________ ____ ____ _ 7ho Banner — Thursday. October 29. 2020 — Page g H0 < vote safely . .. »««...... ip-'m t... e deuce in this ’’. SBA-tarj-o|‘rsf>'*,,ols sa,c,y ‘‘»<l with confi election workers arc > I rState said “All b enraged to do >u s<>.1Ulrc<J l”"ea masksJocelyn and ;(II Benson voters are stro^- “Voters who already ||.tVc t their city or township elerk’s‘0?^,ee b;dlots can drop them off at also go to their local or ballot drop box. Voters can requesting and submit!^ <■ through NoV 2 to vote early by All registered voters m;i>. ballot “ ship clerk’s office through .\<n -> C?r visiting their city or town­ submil an absentee ballot all ;n B ,hc>*can request, fill out and --------c trip, or take their ballot home to in person fill out and sign the envelope before reluming if to one of (heir juris­ diction’s ballot drop boxes by X p.m. on Nov 3. Election workers, who arc required to wear masks, will ask voters to show photo ID. Eligible citizens who arc not yet registered may register, request and submit an absentee ballot at their local clerk’s office through 8 p.m. on Nov. 3 When voting or returning a ballot, practice healthy behaviors to protect against the virus and slow its spread, including Wearing a mask that covers the mouth and nose. Washing hands before entering and after leaving the polling Iota tion. While in the polling location, frequently use alcohol-based hand sanili/er containing at least 60 percent alcohol. Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or the inside of the elbow. Maintain at least 6 feet (about two amis’ length) of distance from ‘ others. Concerned about possible exposure to COVID-19? Seek medical care. To obtain an absentee ballot, contact the local election office for' guidance about voting options. .. I his guidance is based on the most current (.’enters for Disease ' Control and Prevention. City delays sidewalk work; hears disc golf pitch 1-1 Barry County Chairwoman Heather Wing listens to public comment at Tuesday s board meeting. “It’s my understanding that Wexford County had a significant outlay in general funds because they had to rent beds. It got to the point that the amount they spent on renting was equivalent to a debt payment. That is not the case here.’’ Wexford County’s jail was small al that time. Brown explained, and the number of beds that had to be rented became so great that, when a conventional loan was taken out. the rental costs could just Ik* diverted into the county‘s debt payment. At the conclusion of Tuesday’s meeting, Ibbotson got up during the second public comment segment of the meeting and ottered a few more comments on the jail: “I’m very against adding an additional tax during a pandemic," he pointed out. “I said that several months ago: that was when the board pushed the millage to this election," instead of asking voters in the August primary ballot. “And I don’t think we’re any better situated now to impose a tax on the citizens." County answers frequently asked questions about the jail Why is Barry C'ounty asking for n new jail and sheriff's office? The facility was first built in 1972 as a lock-up. and the last addition was made in 1996. According to studies, the existing facil­ ity has reached the end of its useful life. Without substantial renovations, county offi­ cials say. systems could fail beyond repair and cause the sheriff to board inmates in other counties at a cost (xrr day. 1 he .sheriff’s office requirements exceed safe use of the available space, they say. with many functions taking place in the basement, which was intended for sen ices and storage. How would the project be paid for? Tuesday’s ballot request is asking voters to approve general obligation unlimited tax bonds not to exceed $25 million to be paid through a levy of 0.1722 mill in the first year and a (1.4501 mill for debt service in the fol­ lowing years through, and including, 20-16. How much would it cost me? A residential property with a taxable value of $75,000 would pay. on average. $34 per year. Where would the new jail and sheriirs office be located? County officials are waiting to determine a location until after the election. Currently, there are three possible options: • At the present location, since there is enough buildable area on the propertv; the existing facility would be demolished after the new- facility is complete • The county could purchase new property and sell the existing property after the new facility is complete. • Redevelop an existing vacant industrial building and sell the current pn)peny after the new facility is complete. If the bond is approved, these options W'ould be veiled for what is in fhe best inter­ ests of lhe county. Can the shcrifT's office and jail be locat­ ed outside the city? The sheriff’s office is required by slate stat­ ute to be within the city limits of the county seat, which is the city of Hastings. [Only the sheriff’s office, like that of the clerk and trea­ surer, are required by state law to be located in lhe county seat; the jail, however, may be anywhere in the countyj Why can’t the sheriff’s office locate downtown and just build a smaller project elsewhere for the jail? Collocating the jail and sheriff’s office together allows for on-site backup and inci­ dent response from within the building, w hich increases security and reduces staffing costs. How long would the building he expected to last? The building would be designed and built to last for more than 50 years, assuming the current population growth and incarceration rates remain similar to recent trends. How many beds would be in the new jail? The current jail has 97 beds, and the new design would be intended to start with an operating capacity of IK) inmates to keep initial costs low. The design also would plan for future expansion flexibility to a maximum of 166 beds through additions and pod fitouts. if needed. How long would the project take to be completed and occupied? The design process would lake approxi­ mately nine to 10 months, construction would take approximately 24 months, with a feu months needed for moving in. Therefore, it is estimated the new facility would be occupied around mid- to late 2023. What studies have been done to deter­ mine the needs and size of a new facility? T he Barry County Board of Commissioners has been exploring cost-effective solutions for the facility since consultants completed stud­ ies in 2006. 2012 and 2015. Each study included multiple proposed options for addi­ tions and replacements. Why isn’t the design done y et? Preliminary designs shown thus far arc diagrams detailing modern jail best practices. Further developed design solutions should be based on site conditions. Since lhe site has not been selected, the project cannot move for­ ward with design. If design had moved for­ ward - ahead ol the election - and Barry County voters did not approve the ballot pro­ posal. the county would have had to pay for that service. Does any part of this millage proposal increase account for - or go tow ard - sher­ iff and jail operational costs? No, the millage proposal would be for the capital cost ol the building and equipment within it. Sophie Bates Staff Writer Hastings City <-olinc‘l voted 6-3 to delay the fall 2020 sidewalk construction along State Street until spring 2021. in hopes of receiving lower construction bids, during its virtual meeting Monday night. Councilmen John Resseguie. Bill Redman and Al Jarvis voted “no" on the issue, and councilman Don Smith was not present to vote. The sidewalk extension will stretch from Cook Road to the Dollar Tree on the south side of State Street, and Irom Industrial Park Drive to Cook Road on the north side. The project’s lowest construction bidder was Anlaan Corporation of Grand Haven at $97,778. fhe project, with services from Hubble Roth and Clark, an engineering consulting company, and Buisl, an electrical construction company, has been slated to total $110,593. After holding a public hearing on the sidewalk extension. City Manager Jerry Czarnecki told council members that Mike Moyle — the owner of the Holiday Inn Express along West Slate Street — requested that the council consider moving construction to the spring in hopes of better prices. Moyle, along with six other business owners along State Street, will finance the sidewalk construction. “He did ask for consideration of bumping this to the spring. He thought that there would be belter construction prices as well as it will give an opportunity for the property owners to figure out how best to cox er this coming out of the pandemic situation.” Czarnecki said, referring to the financial loll COVID-19 has taken on businesses. “While he understands that it does need to be done and that he is on the hook to pas for it, he would like the consideration of bumping it out a little farther and get away from the downturn in his business." Council members discussed Moyle’s request; some were optimistic that pushing construction to spring would bring lower prices and better weather conditions, while others worried that prices would go up in the spring. “Now. I motion that we accept that and that we push it out to this spring and do bids over the winter. I think we’re very’, very late in the I QoT/TEil+cir’ Led ! J ni LtH noncnoN difficult to acquire. Smith said. However, even with a lack of funding, the course has noticeably good reviews online and is ranked by various websites as being among the best disc golf courses in .Michigan “We have a hidden gem that I would like to make innovative and meet the future standards,” Smith said. "We have an opportunity to be ahead of the game. The cooperation and assistance will lead to more opportunities for people to visit our beautiful1 town and to get people out and trying a new­ sport. I have been able to make this course a top-30 course in Michigan, with 400 courses, surrounding us.” Council members did not take any action on this matter, asking Smith and Sporer to send their funding requests to city staff before, further discussion. In other action, the council accepted the resignation of Michael Snyder from the' zoning board of appeals and the Riverside season right now,” Councilwoman Brenda Cemetery' Preservation Advisory Committee, McNabb-Stange said. effective Dec. 31. Mayor Dave Tossava read “What happens if next spring, we can’t get Sny der’s resignation letter aloud to council. —t anything more competitive and the bids go up ‘‘It was an honor to have been chosen to higher?” Resseguie asked. serve on the above committees, however I . In the council vote, construction will be feel it's time for new members with fresh delayed until next spring and city staff has ideas to serve on the committee’s.” Snyder ; been instructed to seek new contract bids this wrote. “1 enjoyed being on these committees.1 winter for the sidewalk extension. It was a pleasure working with the committee • In other business, the council also heard a members and city staff. I am sure that new . presentation from Jon Sporer. CEO and members will enjoy the challenge as much as . executive director of the YMCA of Barry I did. It has been rewarding in many aspects.” , County Camp Algonquin, and Justin Smith, a ! Council members thanked Snyder for his • city resident and YMCA volunteer, regarding service. * •' improvements at the Hammond Hill Park disc "I had had the pleasure of serving on quite golf course. a few- boards with Mr. Snyder.” Resseguie The course is managed by the YMCA of said, “And although we butted heads many a Barry County in conjunction with the city. time, I’ve enjoyed it, and so has he. And I’m Sporer and Smith are in the process of going to miss him. Thank you for your requesting funding from the city for course service, Mike.” improvements, and put together the “Mike, you sure left the place a lot better presentation to inform council on the state of looking." Councilman Jim Cary' said. “Thank the course. you.” “This disc golf course on the property was The city council plans to move from virtual established in 2008.-Since then, the demand meetings to hybrid meetings this winter, in of the sport has grown immensely,” Smith accordance with the Open Meetings Act. said. **'fhv course is not ready for the growth Monday night, council approved a list of that is happening. We are here today to help policies and procedures for the hybrid get the city — or get help from the city and meetings with the condition that city staff the community to make this one of the best work to make the language easily spots in Michigan.’’ iunderstandable to residents so as not to hinder The course is free to use. making funding itheir participation in meetings. "We have a hidden gem that I would like to make innovative and meet the future standards. We have an opportunity to be ahead of the game." Justin Smith, YMCA volunteer, on Hammond Hill disc golf course NO MORE GUTTER CLEANING, OR YOUR MONEY BACK GUARANTEED! CALL US TODAY FOR Barry Community Free Dental Clinic (Low income, uninsured persons over age 18) V A FREE ESTIMATE Promo Number 285 MICHAEL KINNEY WMIBING Licensed Master Plumber Licensed Journeyman Plumber ^en»C?nJrucl’on’ reni°<lel, repair..drain cleaning. BRADFORD WHITE WATER l^-ATERS ^u/nc Day Installation IJcbnse OfTice (269) 948-2248 #8110376 & Insured ------ ^bllL£269) 838-5112 William Franklin Cromwell LLMSW, CAADC. CTS Is now receiving clients with focus on Trauma, LGBTQ, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD. Adults, Adolescents, and Children. Meridian & McLaren insurances. Payment options available. Meadow Run Holistic Counseling Holistic Therapies for body. m:nj and spirit, tor aH ages. Phone: 269.945.8806 • Fax: 269.945.9907 Annual SOUTHSIDE AUTO BODY, LLC November Sale Looking to hire expericii^ Collision/Auto Body Repair Technician 20% 0TF Tobrics Excludes Sale Homs We ate family owned, quality driven sM’’110 )i )( See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your^printing needs. Hulst Cleaners Pick-Up Station hifth-PtcssUre p,°duction work. experien-e necessary^1 fciWe hours, full I'-'11 R‘‘sumc fq„ (jropped off QUESTIONS ASK US - Monday through Friday 8-5. J-Ad Graphics’ PRINTING PLUS 1351 N M-43 W- "°rth °f Hastings city litnits 18 E State St. Fk-jngs • 945-9673 2295 S. hv37 Hwyo Hastings. i/ss or e»anih’d to cha^njillerso.-*- ............... OI'LV Mr/lhy-•' 'C p SK 1AAAAAAA.AA4aAaAAAAAAA1.aaj 3 �'■’* ,0 _ Tln,r5a.ly 2£)2o _ Hastings students named Kiwanis citizens of the month lhe Kiwanis Club of Hastings has ‘Announced its first citizens of the month for the 2020 21 academic year. Students in fifth through eighth grades are elected by their teachers based on conduct, responsibility, attendance, rcs|>cct and other criteria. Recipients of this honor nt each of the Hastings schools arc: Central Elementary - Mya Luna, daughter of Cheryl and Roberto Luna; and Greg Rutkowski, son oI Christina Taylor. ’ Northeastern Elementary - Taylor XspmalL daughter of Carrie and Don Aspinall: and Allison Brown. daughter of Timothy and Amanda Brown Southeastern Elementary - Hunter Gonsalves, son of Doug GandavcN and Billie Jo Lancaster; and J.ielymi Neymeiyer. daughter of Amy Hall Star School - Alexis King. daughter of Craig and Julie King: and Grant Tossava. son of Casey and I\ler Tossava. St. Rose - Isaiah Short, .son of Deborah and Timothy Short. Hastings Middle Schtxd -- /Xustin Abson, son of Derrick and Jessica .Abson; Arika Alexander, daughter of Bridget Kuhlman and Casey Alexander: Jayla Battles, daughter of Anianda and Joshua Rodriguez: Tyler Frazer, son ol Nicole and Daniel Frazer; F.than Holman, .son of Tiffany Zimmer and Daniel Holman; and Isaiah Wilson, son of KatiA Gould. » ■A’.c: _____ Grant Tossava (left) and Alexis King are the citizens of the month at Star Elementary School. Southeastern Elementary School's September citizens of the month are Jaelynn Neymeiyer (left) and Hunter Gonsalves (right) photographed herewith Principal Dana Stein. ."TiW turJT :------------- - ———— - - - ............. Teacher Katie Youngs is pictured with Isaiah Short, the citizen of the month at St Rose School. Allison Brown (left) and Taylor Aspinall (right) are citizens of the month at Northeastern Elementary. Joining them for a photo is Principal Eric Heide. (Photos provided) Water’s Edge Jeffrey A. Keessen, AIFJi> (269) 948-9969 525 W. Apple St. Hastings, MI 49058 www.watersedgefinancial.com Taking care of what's important to you so that you can focus on what matters most to you A. K*n»rn A<taiah!r>tnc Avr.unt SccutKto offered through LP1. Finans iaL Member F1NRA/SIPC All-® mimi... 150003 I RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP BUDGET HEARING NOTICE The Rutland Charter Township a public hearinn Township Budget for fiscal yearBoard 2021 will at ahold regular meotinn tn ?. nn ?. >h„ „ P'oposed HEARING. Michigan1 ■A ouojtCT OF THIS bUd9et ‘S avai,ab,e for Pub,ic inspection at 2461 Heath Road, Hastings This notice posted in(3) compliance with PA 267 1976 as amended tOnm Mn '♦n°s Act). MCLA is 41.723(2) and the Americans withofDisabilities Act (ADA). P Mee, Soiritnal Care Consultants receives 1 Consumers Energy Foundato grant ! ^*1 L tl “ The Rutland Charier Township Board will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of orm r d materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/neanng upon seven (7) daysauxiliary notice to theor Rutland Charter Clork Individuals with disabilities requiring aids services shouldTownshio contact the cLu at the address or telephone number listed below. trK Robin J Hawthorne, Clerk Rutland Chartor Township 2461 Heath Road Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-2194 *' ‘ ‘ co^-,9re^>ra"' f rant to MH,. J p > Mentis apptuvvd * '<> slippy>1' J1U|'hv|>ur.-li..<1,1 ,cel"' AdolZ" < -,uv Children and '^tn^Vounda-ionscud. Spiritual Cure Consultants Children Adolescents Program has been providing services for seven years and serves 90 to 107 people per month. SCC has served 591 children and adolescents so far in 2020. Spiritual Cate Consultants offers free senices to both adults and children al no cost. ‘•This giant was approved as part ol our COX’ID-19 i diet cl forts." Bloodworth said, “lhe Consumers Energy foundation made the lough decision to suspend regular gr.mimaking to locus on agisting nonprofits providing critical programs and services tor Michigan’s children, vulnerable seniors and • neighbors in need during the COVID-19 crisis. We felt strongly that supporting (this) organization w;is an important part of our response “XVe are indy grateful lor this generosity ol the Consumcts Energy Eoundation," Pastot C>a!e Ki agt of Spiritual Care Consultants said. "Out Children and Adolescents Program is essential support for lhe children in our community. Our goal is to assist them in maintaining good menial health." > ; • । { :. 1 ! 1 �* j|| ■ B Tha Hastings Banner — Thursday, October 29,2020 — PaPage 11 - if M,c igan business leaders urge political unity in fight against COVID-19 Bridge Magazine buMnesses sol try to rebuild lost revenue Utdn^^^nn'n'hin^said^S Michigan Economic Recovery Council Anderson is among the 32 business leaders who signed the throe-page letter delivered to ela ted of fktals Wednesday. I le was joined bv leaders from CEOs of companies across the state that ranged from global brands like General Motors and Dow, to Mcijer. Wolverine Worldwide and Steclcase. Multiple universi- lies and health care facilities are on the list, as are business advocacy groups like the Detroit Regional Chamber, the Lansing Regional Chamber, the Small Business Association of Michigan and the Michigan Manufacturers Assrx'iation. What Michigan needs, according to the letter, “is complete unity of purpose and a strong collective response across our state. We call on our government lenders to foster that unity.” ’I hat's a reference to months of sniping between Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and lhe Republican Legislature over the governor’s emergency power authority since the pandem­ ic hit in March, efforts Anderson and MERC played a role in. A Michigan Supreme Court ruling Oct. 2 negated Whitmer’s executive orders, effec­ tively ending her ability to issue executive orders without input from the legislative branch. Since then. Whitmer and lhe Legislature have had to agree on which of her orders lo codify into law, including ones that extend unemployment benefits. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has since issued its own man-1-'10? * «=> fc* but a common gon! is to remain open. Many were closed by executive order for two months or longer, and reopening has come with capacity restrictions and social distanc­ ing requirements. “We need to continue to lake this virus seriously,’’ he said. “We need lo understand that controlling the virus means economic success. These two arc interlinked.” Baruah noted some recent steps toward bipartisan leadership in the state during the pandemic, including a plan to limit legal lia­ bility for businesses. Democrats and Republicans agreed on the budget approved for this fiscal year, which resulted in funding for the Going Pro and Pure Michigan career and tourism programs. “We just want lo encourage that continued ethos,” Baruah said. Beyond unity. Anderson said that elected officials should stop trying to look for new ways to reduce statewide mandatory protec­ tion standards until the virus is under control again, as it was in June. A,p^ng details about reEu|alions Until then, Michigan Department of Health ductivc when the ^0 appcars’ and Human Services regulations on masks, heading for peak rnfcCU rate,, he added. After lhe Supre'p^™ " mling, -Wc thcn workplace practices and public gatherings “are sufficient.*’ according to the letter. started to see lots P discussion about “We hold these views because of what we what was neededI and wh t Wa$ Anderson said. As) got a sevv)n(] wave on your doorstep, that s gating the unity and mindset and clan ) hat }OU ncc(j tQ it back.” . Sandy Baruah. president and CE() of Detroit Regional Chamber, agreed. He said businesses have a range of approaches to operating during the pandemic. ,. As a second wave of th,: ,^,7' . dt-nne takes bold m Michigan' ''a'|'n's 5lOup of business leaders has , ,he statcselected officials; )fs ti’,^1' jlK vnus. not each other n ° battle The situation is now un»vni o, , -, M rising a>VID.19cascXik>''''tl’dUC ror the peak infections fn)n, ,, week mirfb’ April. Hospitalization nites a.e up. ;lnd ouIl^ —»are spreading across all age groups. deaths are up. they remain far lower though the spring. r than in The health crisis is ]rebounding ’ in a Mate where more than 2 million enced some job .osssinec ^SaS orders, such h** s"',,,rW. that were similar to hip in Republican । afain. t UgJslature continues to virns, “ ^nuxrat’s stepscon,rO|iinits on busing. ‘Elud­ ed occupancy ^ntly. Ih,.ir ^<1 social gatheringsherd ,n dl^ussions have ^H^bysomeKepuhij llJnHy jxdicies (promote > cnactinP , ,s-°PPoscd by Democrats) ^| slnl 8 local control authority to OP*'01’1 ,Oc^own orders if warrantedjerSon saij w The resu‘ • b)jc ail(] *^''esday. is confusion for,IK 1 staler risk of virus spread. That conf,^onpeople wcnl «P in public behiieto . sl J0""'? "P at hospitals. 5 *’ao brWks without masks, while outor «ie been tied t„ social gatherings. AU that increase _ . of inore b|jc spread, Anderson said­ ' -when behaviors change. . . have learned in our hospitals and businesses' lhe disciplined use of COVID-19 safety prac­ tices clearly works to minimize viral spread,” it says. “And we hold these views lxxau.se the evi­ dence strongly suggests - both in Michigan and the other states/countrics in which many of us operate - that without such clear stan­ dards, people struggle to band together to effectively control viral spread. “ That doesn’t me;in that today’s regulations need to stay in place uniformly across tbc state until the pandemic is over. Anderson says. “We can refine them over time if we want to.” Anderson said. “But this is urgent enough that we can’t spend lime arguing about | them J.” Anderson said that, by midday Wednesday,, he hadn’t heard back from Republican legisla­ tors. A spokesperson for the Michigan House of Representatives has not yet provided a. response, “I’m hopeful they will pay serious atten­ tion,” Anderson said. Editor's Note: The DTE Energy Foundation is a funder to the Center for Michigan. which includes Bridge Magazine. LEGAL NOTICES Woman scammed out of $5,300 A 69-year-old Hastings woman called police to report she w as the victim of a scam Oct. 14. The woman said she had a texting relationship with a man in Alabama for two years; he said he was starting a new business. He asked her to invest $5300. and sent her two boxes ol blank checks with her name on them. He told her lo cash a check for $8,000 and send him $5300 online through Money Gram. She later realized she had been scammed. The case is inactive without any suspects. Armed man taken to hospital after suicidal statements Police responded to a report of an intoxicated 26-ycar-old man with a gun making sui­ cidal statements in the 1000 block of Garbow Road in Thomapple Township at 1:51 a.m. Oct. 16. The man left the area and drove to a residence in the 5000 block of Stimson Road. When police arrived, the man said he had been depressed since a breakup with his girl­ friend. He had a 0.179 blood alcohol content. The man’s firearm was unregistered, and his vehicle did not have a registration. He was taken to an area hospital. Information was forwarded to the prosecuting attorney. Driver crashes into residence after seizure A 21-year-old Wayland man crashed into a residence in the 1000 block of South Payne Lake Road in Yankee Springs Township at 2.14 p.m. Oct. 16. The man said he had a sei­ zure, (hen crossed the centerline of the road, crashed through multiple mailboxes and into a residence. When an officer arrived, the man had his finger over lhe vehicle’s broken gas line, to prevent more gas from leaking out. The officer shut the line with a vice grip. The man admitted to smoking marijuana an hour before the crash. The man was cited, and information was forwarded to lhe prosecuting attorney. No suspects for stolen tools Boxes of tools were stolen from a garage in the 4000 block of Cordes Road in Hope Township Oct. 7. An 82-year-old man said he left the garage door open the previous day from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. When he went into the garage at 5:15 p.m. Oct. 7, he noticed two boxes of tools, which included wrenches and socket sets, were missing. The case remains under investigation. Crash leads to driver's third OWI arrest A 45-year-old Delton man was arrested at 10:26 p.m. Oct. 13 for his third offense of operating a vehicle while he was impaired. His vehicle crashed into a rock and tree on Cloverdale Road near Lammers Road in Hope Township. The vehicle did not have insur­ ance, and the man’s license was not valid. He was located nearby and initially denied being part of the crash, before admitting to driving the vehicle. The man had trouble standing, and admitted to drinking beer, but refused a Breathalyzer test. He said he was on his way home from buying wine and crashed because his dog jumped on his lap. Muzzleloaders reported stolen from residence Two muzzleloaders were reported stolen from a residence in the 7000 block of South M-43 in Hope Township at 9:10 p.m. Oct. 8. A 74-year-old man said he recently cleaned them and pul them in their case, which was not locked. The guns were the only items taken from the home. The case is inactive without any suspects. Hastings man arrested for suspicion of meth A 50-year-old Hastings man was arrested after a suspected methamphetamine pipe was found in the center console of his vehicle in the 600 block of South Hanover Street at 11:58 p.m. Oct. 6. An officer stopped the man s vehicle after noticing it did not have a valid license, 'fhe officer also found pills in the vehicle that had not been prescribed to the man. leg^l NOTICES Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of lhe revised judicature act of 1961. 1961 PA 236. MCL 600.3212, that the following mortgage wa be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly at 1.00 PM, on November 12.2020 The amount duo on the mortgage may be grater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid al the sale does not automatically entitle tho purchaser to free and clear ownership of the property A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact tho canty register of deeds office or a title insurance cor^any. either of which may charge a fee for this infosation Name(s) of the mortgagor(3}Ponald J. Hermemtt and Ruby M. Hermemtt. and wife Original Mortgagee. Ditec# Financial LLC FKA Green Tree Servicing LLC F/K/A CONSECO FINANCE SERVICING CORP Foreclosing Assignee (if any) New Rez LLC dba Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing Date of Mortgage. June 13. 2000 Date of Mortgage Recording. June 21.2000 Amount claimed due on date of notice $85,589.81 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County. Michigan, and desenbed as: That Part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 20. Town 2 North. Range 10 West, described as: Commencing at the Northeast comer of said Section; thence South 89 degrees 59 minutes West 1009.17 feet along the North line of said Northeast 1/4 to the Centerline of Lindsey road: thence South 08 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds West 33 35 feet along said Centerline to the place of beginning; thence North 89 degrees 59 minutes East 233 00 feet, thence South 08 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds West 220.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 59 minutes West 233.00 feet; thence North 08 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds East 220 0 feel along said Centerline to the place of beginning Common street address (if any): 11224 Ronald Ln, Delton. Ml 49046-7764 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600 3241a; or. if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If the property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600 3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the redemption period. Attention homeowner If you are a military service member on active duty. i’y°ur Period cf active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or yOU baVe been ordered to active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated »n his notice. This notice is from a debt00 ^ftor Date of notice: October 15. 2020 Trott Law, P.C. c . 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Suite 145 Farmington Hills. Ml 48334 (248)642-2515 Banner CLASSIFIEDS 1422979 (10-15)(11-05) 149194 CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 If uaincfis Services Help Wanted BELLS CONSTRUCBON-18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, borne improvements, power washing. 2Q9-3203890. AREA CHURCH SEEKS part­ time Nursery Worker to pro­ vide dependable, safe, and nurturing care to children ages 0-5 years in a dean environ­ ment. Work hours are Sundays 8:30am to 11:30am with the possibility of working more hours. H interested contact 616-886-0301 or nomolos47®; grnail.com BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. C allI for pricing- Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, li.ibihlv workman's comp. Fetterley Logging. ^269)818-7793. __ MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailer,, buckets, bale spears, eu- Cail 26*804-7506. I 'ur Stile CARRON SPORT AIR Hock­ ey Table. $300.00 OBO. Phone 269-908-1654. KASSON 10FT OAK Pool fable, excellent condition. $1,000.00 or OBO. 269-908­ 1654 GET ALL THE NEWS OF ry COUNTY! BAR Subscribe to the Hastings Call 269-945.9554’ for more ^“nnation. STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENT’S ESTATE FILE NO. 2020-28556-DE Estate of Douglas George Bowman. Deceased. Date of birth: 10/10/1955. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Douglas George Bowman, deceased, died 03/31/2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Cory Michael Bowman, personal representative, or to both the probate court at Barry County, Michigan Probate Court, 205 W. Court St., Ste. 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Dale: 10/26/2020 Gerald J. Cichocki P68223 P.O. Box 418 Potterville. Ml 48876 (517)374-0310 Cory Michael Bowman 7249 Marshall Rd. Nashville, Ml 49073 (517)256-1359 150146 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENTS ESTATE FILE NO. 2020-28621-DE Estate of Murray Franklin Chamberlin Jr., Deceased. Date of birth: 05/08/1926. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Murray Franklin Chamberlin, Jr., died 08/17/2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Allisa B. Chamberlin, persona! representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street, Ste. 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 10/29/2020 Stephen W. Burness P28824 5955 West Main Street Kalamazoo, Ml 49009 269/321-3700 Allisa B. Chamberlin 309 Oakhurst Avenue Kalamazoo. Ml 49001 269/330-4409 149990 SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING October 14. 2020-7:00 p.m. Regular meeting called to order and Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Bellmore. Spencer. James. Walters, Watson. Hawthorne. Greenfield Approved lhe Agenda Approved lhe Consent Agenda Monthly Treasurer's Report Monthly Clerk’s Voucher/Payroll Report Approved the Scope of Work/Authorization to Proceed on the Development of lhe Township’s Marihuana Policies Township Road Repair Discussion Approved Resolution #2020-260 - Rescinding the Appointment of a Custodian to Oversee the Va­ cant Township Land located at 1891 W. State Road Approved Resolution #2020-261 - Amendments to the Electrical Permit Application Fee Schedule Adjournment 7:55pm Respectfully submitted. Robin Hawthorne. Clerk Attested to by. Larry Watson. Supervisor 150172 ■ , STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF KENT 17TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT FAMILY DIVISION ORDER FOR PUBLICATION ON HEARING TO: ANN ABBOTT Child’s Name: Lincoln Henrich Case No. 20-51629-NA-104816801 uXifirr December 9, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. FteiUo tonar tor Judge Rossi. 4lh Floor Courtroom "d. Due to tho Covid be conducted via Zoom. Please conusCt 1S . JU An initial and/or supplement aS4 petition has been planning on the petition, inc ud.ng a pen . ' pate nearing, will bo conducted byr the Courts and time staled above in t courthouse, Court, Fam-ly Dwision. ^ ... ^1C|1taan. fha 160 Ottawa NW. Grund Rap - . in (he permanency plannJrja conlinued in foster chlkKren) being returned h *’wd,ngg t0 lerm’nate care, or the court may .J,FRef.-QRE ORDtnED that parental rights. l> IS JHfcHer al tfK> you personally ,0 and place stated unovc participate »n the (n a temporary or T”'5 h“^„r your right'O'he chJdfren). permanent io.~ a > ;?0 Dited: October 23 X-hLMcNabh 150038 Circuit Court Judge , ’ STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL CIRCUIT - FAMILY DIVISION BARRY COUNTY PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF HEARING FOR NAME CHANGE CASE NO. and JUDGE 20-28632-NC William M. Doherty P41960 206 W. Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 269-945-1390 In the matter of Dyl'an James Humble TO ALL PERSONS, including: whose address is unknown and whose Interest in the matter may bo barred or affected by the following: TAKE NOTICE: A hearing will be held on Wednesday, 11/18/2020 & 2:30 p.m. at 206 W. Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 before Judge William M. Doherty to change the name of: ’ Dyllan James Humble to Dyllan James Boyer. 150072 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Jacklyn Regis Revocable Living Trust. TO ALL CREDITORS, including Sharon Engen whose address and whereabouts are unknown: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Jacklyn Regis, died July 6, 2020. Creditors of the decedent. Jacklyn Regis are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Tim Regis, Trustee, c/o Lisa Hagenauer-Ward, Law Office of ■ Lisa M. Hagenauer, PC, 250 Monroe NW #400, Grand Rapids, Ml 49503. within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: October 23,2020 Lisa Hagenauer-Ward Law Office of Lisa M. Hagenauer, P.C. 250 Monroe NW #400 Grand Rapids, Ml 49503 (616)717-5752 lisaQhagenauertaw.com f } 150071 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENT’S ESTATE FILE NO. 2O2O-28616-DE Estate of Sandra Lee Pattok. Date of birth: 08/03/1938. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Sandra Lee Pattok. died 08/26/2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Emily Rose Pattok/Enc Pattok, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 West Court Street. Ste. 302. Hastings, Ml 49058 and the persona! representative within 4 months alter the date of publication of this notice. Date: 10/27/2020 David H. Tripp P29290 202 S Broadway . Hastings, Ml 49058 269-948-2900 Emily Rose Pattok/uiK Pattok 434 W. Green St/12400 E. Tuscola Rd. Hastings. Ml 49058/Frankenmuth, Ml 48734 269-908-3313 150144 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS FILE NO.19-28149-DE . Estale of Richard F. Kimble. Date of birth: 01/21/1927. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Richard F. Kimble died November 25, 2018. Creditors of the decedent are nolilied that alt claims against the estate will be forever boned unless ptesenlod to Gary R. Kimble, personal representative, or Io both the probate court 206 W. Court St.. Ste. 302. Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months alter th® da’o of publication of this notice Date October 21,2020 WtKtam M. Azkoul P40071 99 Monroe Ave. NW. Ste. 800 Grand Rapids. Ml 49503 616-235-5500 Gary R Kimble 1496 Manitou Lane Middleville. Ml 49333 (269)948-4283 1499 to �i j । — /YkAiinriwnrk for 2021 County’s $18.5 million general fund plan lays groundwork ror a Pf^e 12 — Thursday, Octotxn 29. 2020 — The Hastings Banner . /vahakoi „r .he total annual revenue. The remaining of fhe total annual revenue The rcm.ii g Rebecca Pierce five sources: charges for services in ‘lPa • Editor menis such as (he courts and register of ueeus Barry County will operate « $185 million office, rent, and interest and transfers from general fund budget for calendar year 2021 other funds, along wiih licenses and permits and levy taxes totaling 5.3166 mills, lhe max • provide $3.3 million, or 18 percent in next imum allowed alter applying the Headlee year ’s plan. rollback. ’lhe budget also establishes the following w- Commissioners unanimously adopted the rates ior Commission on Aging operations. • budget without comment Tuesday. 0.4803 mill; Central Dispatch/E9U, 0.8500 The total they approved represents a slight . increase over this year’s $17.8 million general mill; Transit, 0.2427 mill. Charlton Park. 0.2210 mill, and Thornapple Manor debt i fund budget, largely because of slight upticks retirement. 0.6795 mill. , in wages and health care costs. ’Hie county maintains 74 separate funds • “We try not to have big swings,’’ County and more than 75 programs with expenditures Administrator Michael Brown remarked, not­ that exceed $70 million annually. In fact, the ing that the goal is consistency and stability. This budget is Brown’s 26,h and it's a very total budget for all funds - general, special big deal, he acknowledged. “It's the single revenue, debt, construction, enterprise and • largest policy document that most organiza­ internal service - will exceed $76 million in 2021. tions have." Collective bargaining agreements are in £ The most significant source of revenue for place through 2020 for all five unions: Barry the general fund is property taxes, which, in the 2021 document, will provide 71 percent of County Courthouse Employees Association, Police Officers I^ibor Council representing : the total resenue - about $13.1 million. . Federal and state revenue is the next largest sheriff’s corrections officers. Police Officer . source, at S2.I million in 2021. or 11 percent Labor Council representing deputies, Drain commissioner awaiting permits as expenses near $2.3 million Luke Froncheck ' Staff Writer " Barry County Drain Commissioner Jim 1 Dull is playing a wailing game. ' Dull and engineers submitted a permit to ' lhe Michigan Department of Environment Great Lakes and Energy lo bring water north from Upper Crooked Lake, which has been . flooded for nearly three years. As part of the plan, water would be pumped through the Delton marsh. Chain O Lakes and through Long Lake. However, Dull has had to file multiple extensions to the permit request because of additional information requests from EGLE officials. Engineers have been looking at different filtration systems to alleviate some EGLE officials’ concerns about the spread of inva. sive species. “One, we want low maintenance and. two, we want cheap,” Dull said. n As long as EGLE officials keep asking for .information, Dull said he and the hired engi; neers have to keep providing it. “If we don’t, we won’t get our permit,” he ,rsaid. “If they ask us to measure stones, we measure stones." . As of Wednesday, Dull said nearly $2.3 .million has been spent on the Watson Drain .project. Of that, $140,000 has been spent on pumping alone. “We’ve just been spinning our wheels and .pumping and pumping and pumping,’’ Dull said Wednesday. - The permit for the Crooked Lake project [isn’t the only one with a pending EGLE .response. Five other permits have been filed t and are awaiting approval before work can continue. . Dull said he is waiting on a permit for a • project on Shallow Lake, an outlet for Wall Lake, where an undersized culvert is causing .. flooding on Shallow Lake. • . The last permit approved by EGLE was in June. Approval of a permit also is holding up lhe Pine Lake flooding project. Pine Lake has a court-ordered level of 8905 feet above sea level, Dull said. The lake Jevel is now' at 894 after reaching 8945 over the summer. "We fee! 4 feet above normal level is way above the normal level," Dull said. One of the information requests on the Pine Lake project sent by EGLE asked Dull to prove that he had jurisdiction over Pine I-ake, which borders Allegan County - or if there was a problem there at all. “These people are drowning." Dull said. “1 don’t know what the deal is." However, he said he doesn’t blame EGLE officials for the delays in permit approval. “They just don’t have the manpower." Still. Dull said he hopes for construction on the Long and Cloverdale Lake portions of the project to begin this winter. But additional pumping off Crooked Lake will not begin until next spring. Dull has an agreement with officials from lhe Michigan Department of Natural Resources to keep the lake at 927.4 feet above sea level for the win­ ter. That agreement allows him to pump water off Crooked Lake to keep the lake at the agreed-upon level. “We re going to hammer the lake, so it stays there all summer," Dull said. The current goal is to have a permit in hand by next spring. Once there are three days of temperatures above 60 degrees, they can begin pumping again. Dull also has agreed to purchase land at the comer of M-43 and Pine Lake Road for an infiltration bed. The 70-acre property would and hold some of the waler coming north out of Crooked Lake. However, lhe purchase would not be final­ ized until after a pennit is approved by EGLE. He added that the property would cost the Watson Drain District no more than SI(>0,000, but they are slill in negotiations. “We can’t spend the money on it until wc get our permit,” Dull said. “We need to get this permit first, so we know if we have to adjust things or buy a little more." While construction efforts are paused, he added, there arc no areas with water over roadways or people in severe flooding situa­ tions. “People are still pumping, but it is better than it was," Dull said. Business relocating after airport commission kerfuffle Sophie Bates Staff Writer Don Smith, a councilman for Hastings’ Third Ward and owner of Affordable Metal Roofing LLC, is in the process of purchasing ' a two-acre property from lhe local development finance authority to relocate his business. Affordable Metal Roofing LLC has been located in the Hastings City/Barry County Airport for lhe past seven years. The new property is on a vacant lot facing Star School Road in lhe city of Hastings. The LDFA board unanimously approved the sale at an Oct. 22 meeting. The sale must be : approved by the Hastings City Council before it becomes official, Community Development Director Dan King said. “Pending city council’s approval — > hopefully, here in two weeks - then the ball will be in Mr. Smith's court to develop a site plan and present that to the planning '•commission at a future meeting." King said. ' Smith will need to have a site plan approved by the Hastings Planning Commission before turning the vacant Jot into a business. Purchasing property through lhe LDFA makes Smith eligible for a tax exemption through the state. King said. An industrial facilities exemption certification entitles the facility to exemption from real and/or personal property taxes for a ’term of one to 12 years, as determined by the local unit of government, according to the Michigan Department of Treasury website. 'JFEs provide a tax incentive to manufacturers • tolitks.’and .0 promos .he es.abl.shmen. of high-tech facilities. Smith was forced lo relocate his business after Hastings resident Tomy Cordova filed a complaint alleging the airport was violating lhe terms of a Federal /Xviation Administration grant by allowing Smith’s business — a nonaeronautical business — to operate in one of its hangars. The complaint led to an investigation by lhe Michigan Office of Aeronautics Licensing and Inspection Division. According to Smith and Assistant Airport Manager Mark Anderson, the investigation found nothing illegal about Smith’s business or the airport. “He’s [Smith’s] never been in violation — it’s accusations from other people," Anderson said. However, lhe airport commission slill voted lo give Smith 18 months — after he returns from deployment as a master sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserves — to move his business out of the airport. Airport commission member Vivian Conner was the only opposing vote. Smith said he already was looking to move away from the airport. “1 needed to expand anyway, so I wanted to move out to a different location,” Smith said. Smith maintained there was never an issue with his business operating at lhe airport. Instead, he believes the incident surrounding his business and the airport was an opportunity to push an agenda and that he was caught in lhe crossfire. “My lake is that outside influences influenced [airport commission! members lo make drastic changes,’’ Smith said. Command Olr,v w!on of Michigan. i i ?K'ers Association of Michigan, and 1 olice OfrK„ . r Council rtpresemin^^‘ions^r^,nrs. 1 he county h,ls one general funded primary government debt and that is the Friend of the Comt budding . The annual tetireinCnt for 2021, including intcrCsl $79388. The last scheduted deb! payment for this building will lie in The general filnd budgel is one of six: the others being Special venue, debt, construc­ tion, enterprise and internal service. In other action, the commissioners: • heard a ffonl Brown about lhe county s app|jCalion lo thc Public Safety layroll program from which the county received $402.96() Approximately $98,000 of that amount went to Barry 911. Thc county also applied fOr 552,000 from the First Responder Hazard pay Premium Program, ^020h WlS reqU,red 10 **paid °Ul by SCPL 3°’ • appointed William J. Sweeney to serve on the Barr)' County s0|jd Waste Oversight Wayland overtakes DK/TK/HHS in last race to share league lead The Wildcats came roaring back over lhe final five events after trailing by more than 20 points the Community Education and Recreation Center pool in Hastings Thursday to pull even with the Delton Kellogg/ Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings varsity girls’ swimming and diving team. Wayland Union and DK/TK/HHS will both go into the conference meet lied for first in the OK Rainbow Conference Tier II this season after the Wildcats’ 93-92 win in the two teams’ annual Cancer Meet. Abby Marcukaitis pnd Sophie Marcukaitis won two indivicjbal races each for DKTK/ HHS and helpedopen the night with a victory­ in the 200-jard medley relay. Victories in thc last two relays, the 200yard freestyle relay and the 400 yard freestyle relay, and 1-2 finishes in lhe 500-yard free­ style and the 100-yard backstroke helped power the Wildcats to the win in the end. The Wildcat foursome of Ellaina Hudson, Taylor Wolf, Cassandra Borr and Jourdin Dressier placing third in lhe 400-yard free­ style relay gave the Wayland team lhe last two points it needed after the foursome of Ryleic Steuer, Sumi Reed, Elliot Antel and Riley VanPopcring won the race in 4:04.15. DK/TK/HHS started building its lead early in the meet with the team of Abby Marcukaitis, Sophie Marcukaitis, Preslee Hall and Holly Carpenter winning lhe 200-yard medley relay by just over a second in 1:5937. Abby Marcukaitis followed that right up by winning the 200-yard freestyle in 2:0656, but Wayland showed off its freestyle speed with Steuer, Reed and Antel going 2-3-4 in that race. The first three individual races of the day went that way. with one team earning seven points for a victory and a fifth-place finish and the other taking the nine second, third and fourth place points. Abby would add a winning time of 5537 seconds in the 100yard freestyle and Sophie Marcukaitis won lhe 200-yard indi­ vidual medley in 2:2128, with three Wildcats net to lhe wall. Madelyn Reurink won the 50-yard freestyle for Wayland with Dk/TK/ HHS having the next three in led by Anna Haywood’s runner-up time of 27.17 seconds. It was a good day for l^e DK/TK/HHS divers. Claire Green won the event with 176.30 jxjints. Eve Bishop was second with a score of 161.75 and teammate TJ Myers third with a score of 147 95 DK/TK/HHS went 1-2-3 in the 100-yard butterfly too. with Haywood winning in 1 07.62, Juliann Meeker second in l:l025 an(J Hall third in 1:1255. Wayland got a big win in the 200-yard free­ style relay with the team of Reurink, Reed, Abbie Jelscma and VanPopcring beating the DK/FK/HHS team of Ellen Shults, Sophie Marcukaitis. d Abby Marcukaitis L4Q9n»hUndredths of a second (1:4816 10 The Wildcat, closed out the individual D^ler winning lhe 100-ywd backstroke m 1qo (eanunate Johnnie Mcllema sccondV^o « „nd “ finish hT?;1" >n the lOO-yard |,reaslslroke behind Sophie -nc Inc DKAlK/jn>r t ,.ve a non-confer<.ntL ,n“' wi'h Ioni» Xning (Oct. 29) »nd will host t])c 0K R sconference Tier II Championship Mect Nov. 6-7 in Usings- Correction: ........ .. nofl1* Hastings Banner. Committee in the position reP««"''n8 ''’“j ____ nice hi uiv ■ i . solid waste industry for n three-year t begins Nov. 1 and expires Oct. 31. -• • • awarded a carpel replacement bid «» Lansing Tile and Mosaic Inc. for $- » - • which includes carpeting the Mezzanine. • approved Michigan Department o Agriculture Farmland and Open SP^CC Preservation Program applications (Public Act 116) for Donald Johnson in Section 33 of Irving Township and for G A: H Leep in Sections 7 and 18 of Orangeville Township. • amended 2020 Monumentation Surveyor Contracts io reflect increased compensation for Arrow Land Survey, Crane Land Survey. incering nnd /' ;,„<J Brian Reynolds dba Reyno < Inc. and Brian - - ^locating the Surveying & Mapping. •originally 55.775 in g-ant money .bi • jn been awarded to c,,rr rovt;tj terminating their 2020 contract, mid approve clirVevor listing 2020 '“S2. 0^ Agreement with Carr • which was original y .ippn c individual nn Feb ’’5. 2020; and approved m ‘r* amounts. • approved claims of $101,488. Saxons get eight through to 02 regional race in Otsego Saturday The Hastings varsity girls' and boys’ cross country teams each finished one place shy of earning a spot in this weekend’s regional round of lhe slate tournament, but more than halt of the Saxons’ who ran in the pro-region­ al Friday al U.S. 131 Motorsports Park did advance. The Saxon program is sending four girls and four boys on lo Saturday morning’s Division 2 Regional hosted by Otsego High School as they were among lhe individual regional qualifiers from their Pre-Regional hosted by Plainwell last week. Tile top four teams at pro-regional races and top seven individuals not on those four teams earned spots in the Regional. The Hastings girls were one-point shy of getting all seven runners on to the regional, placing fifth. That group of regional qualifiers for the Hastings girls includes juniors Allison Teed and Carissa Strouse, senior Aura WahlPiotrowski and freshman Lily Comensoli. The four Hastings boys advancing on to Regional* are freshmen Caleb LaBoe. Jonah Teed. Riley Shults and senior Claten Patten. Otsego took the girls’ championship with The Saxons’ Cole Greenfield makes his six runners placing third through eighth al lhe way along the course at US 131 Pre-Regional to finish with just 25 points. Motorsports Park Friday during the Plainwell was second with 80 points, led by Division 2 Pre-Regional race. the two fastest girls. Hamilton was third with 86 points, and Allegan beat out Hastings for the fourth spot 102-103. Hopkins was sixth Shults led the Hastings boys. LaBoe was 13th with 139 points. overall in 18:31.15, and the fastest guy among Teed and Strouse came in together at the the three teams that did not qualify for region­ end of their race, with Teed 13th in 22 min­ al. feed placed 16th in 18:48.50 and Shuhs utes 6.41 seconds and Strouse 14th in 17th in 18:49.10. 22:0857. Wahl-Piotrowski placed 21st in Patten finished 35th, the last of the individ­ 23.01.09 and Comensoli 27th in 24:14.29. ual regional qualifiers. He was more than a Comensoli was the last individual regional minute ahead of his nearest challenger for that qualifier, finishing about 30 seconds ahead of seventh spot among the individual qualifiers. her nearest challenger for the spot. The Saxon team also had freshman Reuben Plainwell sophomore Grace Pettit was the Solmes 42nd in 23:08.49, freshman Cole winner with a time fo 20:06.78 and her junior Greenfield 43rd in 23:29.40 and senior Jacob teammate Mackenzie Hill was second in Arens 44th in 24:48.49. 20:14.23. Sophomore Chelsea Glessner led Allegan was led by senior Connor Harlan, lhe Otsego girls to lhe team win with a third- the race runner-up in 17:01.99 and Plainwell's place time of 20:3752. pack was paced by junior Eli Veen who was The first five Otsego girls across the finish third in 17:08.88. six of lhe next eight runners line all had times less than 21 minutes, but across the finish line were from the winning limes overall were a bit slow due to recent Otsego team. rains that made the course muddy. The Division 2 Regional at Otsego is set to Otsego won the boys’ race as well, with 24 begin al 10 a.m. Saturday morning (Oct. 31). points led by senior Colin Mulder who was The top three teams and top seven individuals the individual champ in 16:31.05. not on those teams al the regional will earn Allegan was second with 54 points, ahead spots in the Division 2 Lower Peninsula Cross of Plainwell 91, Hamilton 99, Hastings 121 Country Championship to be held Nov. 6 al and South Haven 156. Michigan International Speedway in The freshmen trio of LaBoe, Teed and Brooklyn. Catholic Central overwhelms Vikes in district final Grand Rapids Catholic Central ended lhe winningest season in the history of Lakewood boys’ soccer in lhe Division 3 District Final at West Catholic High School in Grand Rapids Thursday. The Cougars scored a 7-0 victor)' over the Vikings. Lake wood held the Cougars scoreless for the first 23 minutes of the district final, and Lakewood head coach James LeVcque said his guys had one quality scoring chance against the Catholic Central net in that span, but once the Cougars found the net the first time they just picked up steam. “We played with a ton of heart and refused to quit,” LeVcque said. This team exceeded any expectations we had coming into the sea­ son. We had five seniors who really played hard and loved lhe game with all they had. Their passion motivated the rest of the team to raise their level of play and achieve great suc­ cess." Tlte 2020 team finishes the season with a record of 14-3-1. Catholic Central opened the regional round of the slate tournament Tuesday, falling 3-1 |o OK Gold Conference rival South Christian in lhe regional semifinals hosted by the Sailors. Dowagiac bested Hillsdale 3-0 in lhe other regional semifinal at South Christian Tuesday. South Christian will host Dowagiac in the regional final this evening (Oct. 29). TK spikers win last three matches in Gold tourney The Thomapple Kellogg varsity volleyball team scored three consecutive victories in OK Gold Conference Tournament action after an opening round loss to South Christian. The Trojans followed up a three-set win at Ottawa Hills Oct. 20 with five-set victories over Wyoming and Kenowa Hills. The Trojans closed out the conference sea­ son al Wyoming Thursday, beating the Wolves 25-22. 10-25,20-25,25-16, 15-10. Chloe Teachout had a big night at lhe net with a team-high 11 kills and five blocks. Ellie Shoobridgc contributed eight kills and two blocks. Tyah Jefferson had eight kills and four aces. Claudia Lems added tour aces to, to go along with her 23 assists. Thomapple Kellogg rallied from two sets down to defeat Kenowa Hills 18-?S ”>S 9b 25-19.20-25. 15-7. ' ' I K had three seniors with double-digit kills in the wm <ner the Knights. Shoobridgc led cuT.?'ay ,4' Tcacho,,t had 13 and JelTe >on 12. Insten Cross added eight kills and^Lems and Moriah Sprague had seven Sprague hit a teaiu hiL'h four when they'‘win . B-itt'l'e CtXkUk°''‘1a-V �. Brett Bremer Sports Editor . j u^cwood senior Nathan Alford turned m thc chule U> |KW lhe nmaa> back of ‘‘rt'orfinish Noahline Griffith afteranother lhe pair <t<w>ed >the one after al '■ \urkOvilte Besday. ; • Alfonl won the Greater Lansing Activities Inference individual championship al the 'tjLAf- Championship meet, fighting off . *t thc finish fine. Alford was ultimate. S(K tenths of a second ahead of Griffith. ' Roth bojs kicked up enough mud to run jjew per'onal record times. Alford hit the finh fine in 16 minutes 14.81 seconds and Griffith in 16:15.41. Thivc of the next five runners across the finish line were from Stockbridge, and lhe Stockbridge boys won lhe conference chum pionship with a total of 41 points. Ixslie w;r second with 44. ahead of Olivet 59, Uikewcxxl 105 and Perry 105. It was the first time that lhe fuikewrxxl boys had enough boys lo cam a team score in a GLAC event this fall. There was no photo finish in lhe girls race as Stockbridge junior Rylec Tolson ran to victory in 18:16.56. finishing more than half a minute in front of lumsing Christian senior Madison Volz (18:51.19). Volz did enough to help the Pilgrims to a victory Tuesday though, as her team finished with just 43 points. Alford was one of four Lakewood guys to set a new PR. Sophomore Ryan Alford did it too. placing 22nd in 18:32.93. Junior Clayton Dumond was 38th in a new PR of 21.0950 Members of the Lakewood varsity boys’ cross country team break out of their box led by senior Nathan Alford and sophomore Ryan Alford along with the rest of the varsity runners at the GLAC Championship at Turkeyville Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) n ■ * and senior Brady Gawne was 40th in a PR of 22:54.69. In front of those fourth and fifth scorers, Dumond and Gawne, for the Vikings was junior Aidcn Pyle who placed 23rd in 18:39.84. Maple Valley senior Curtis Walker led his team with a 26th-place time of 19:06.78. His sophomore teammate Adam Blakely set a new personal record with his 41st-place time of 23:25.94. The Viking team was rounded out by senior Colin Heyl and freshman Emil Myers who were 45th and 46th respectively. Olivet was second in the girls’ standings for the day with 63 points, led by senior Danae Feldpausch who clocked a new PR of 19:1025 to place third. Stockbridge was third as a team with 71 points, ahead of Leslie 85, Lakewood 105 and Perry- 122. Senior Katie /\cker led the Lakewood ladies with a ninth-place time of 20:25.78. The first three Vikings in were seniors with Emily Apsey 21st in 22:36.34 and Anja Kelley 24th in 23:06.00. Kelley ran her fastest race of the season, and so did thc four Vikings behind her. Freshman Claire Fortier was 26th in 23:17.25. sophomore Sadie Brearley 29th in 23:37.84. sophomore emma Lancaster 30th in 23:3934 and sophomore Gabby Rosenburger 36th in Maple Valley senior Curtis Walker 24:42.84. Maple Valley senior Alyson Gusey ran the works his way along a muddy road at fastest race of her varsity career to place 51st Turkeyville Tuesday during the GLAC in 34:22.70 and her freshman teammate Nadia Championship. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Martin was 39th in 25:20.12. The Lions were led by freshman Lilly Faurot who placed 20th in 22:28.78. । ; Lakewood s Anja Kelley makes her way past the turkey barns —---------------- —■— the GLAC Championship Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) at Turkeyville during Maple Valley’s Lilly Faurot races towards the mile-mark of Tuesday afternoon’s GLAC Championship meet at Turkeyville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) □ ,___ .u.uniig anu ii snowed, especially since he had to do it with no other runners around him,” coach Blakely said. "I believe that if he had more runners near him, pushing him more, he could have been easily under 25 minutes. Faurot placed eighth in the girls’ race Saturday in 21:15.0 and Martin 22nd in 23:42.6 to finish among the regional qualifi­ ers. "Our freshmen girls ran better than predict­ ed and hxiked more like veteran runners. Lilly Faurot gave every thing to keep as close to the front as she could. Just making it to regionals □ raffia ms into D3 Regional wasn't on her mind, she was planning on how A (no of Lions ran lhe fastest cross country' to get to stale. That is such a mature decision each mile gained, which is so incredible com- ting a new PR. Three of the next four guys Yace ol their varsity careers Saturday at the —u:---across thc finish linn — ----- • • for such a new runner, who's had to improve ing from young runners.” across the finish line behind him were his - Division 3 Pre-Regional hosted bs PewamoPewamo-Westphalia won lhe boys ’ race consistently on her time to even be in this P-W teammates. AVestphalia at Huckleberry Golf Course. Saturday with 42 points, finishing ahead of position,” coach Blakely said. The Pewamo-Westphalia girls were even '• Those personal records (PRs) earned Lion Bath 81, Laingsburg 84. Potterville 93. Charyl "Nadia Martin also ran a really smart nice. more dominant, scoring only 22 points to top senior Curtis Walker and freshmen Lilly I was worried throughout the whole race on Stockwell Academy 110 and Ovid-Elsie 171. Perry’ 79. Laingsburg 89. Ovid-Elsie 91, Bath Faurot and Nadia Martin spots in this Bath junior Liam Harlan was the fastest 128 and Charyl Stockwell Academy 129. whether she would gel one of those individual I Saturday *s Division 3 Regional nice at DeWitt guy in the race, winning in 17:13.3. Potterville spots. I kept yelling at her to ‘pass this group.’ Pewamo-Westphalia was led by senior Julia | High School Saturday (Oct. 31). junior Carson Brunk* was second in 17:285 Esch, the individual champion, who hit the and she would. I ’ d say you need that posi ­ Walker, a senior, finished in less than 19 tion. pass her.’ and she worked so hard pass­ and Laingsburg senior Lucas Woodruff was finish line in 19:45.3. The Pirates had five '•minutes for the first time in his four varsity third with a new personal record time of girls in the top seven overall and seven in the ing runners as much as she could. ’ 1 Reasons. He placed 20th in 18 minutes 45.4 top 16. “Both of the girls mile splits were so con­ 17:355. 'seconds to cam a place as one of die seven Pewamo-Westphalia was led by sophomore sistent only losing around ten seconds for Perry junior Grace o’Neill was the run­ ** individual regional qualifiers from the pre-reAlex Thelen who was fourth in 17:43.8. set- ner-up in 20:06.0. gional race last weekend. • The top four teams and seven fastest indi­ viduals not on those teams at pre-regional races across the state Inst week earned spots in Brett Bremer the upcoming regional races. Walkers was the The DK girls finished one spot ahead of lhe Sports Editor sixth of' seven individual regional qualifiers Fhe Delton Kellogg Panthers get to run in Fennville girls for fourth.outscoring trigs lo qualify for the Division 3 Lower resetting their PRs was sophomore Micah Fennville Allendale op Halloween. Earning that race 99-117. Calvin Christian wOn lhe girls from the race in Pewamo. , race Peninsula Slate Finals for lhe third time in his Martin who was 16th in 18:57.54. "We’ve had some talks about race strategy was their goal Wednesday. The lop four for DK also included sopho­ with 27 points, ahead oi Holland Black River varsity career. He scored a lime of 17:23.99 to 'l he Delton Kellogg varsity boys were third 61 and Saranac 72. NorthI ointe Christian was lead the DK boys to (heir third-place finish. for our last couple of races.” Lion head coach more Hector Jimenez who was 12th in Saranac won the bo)s’ race with 44 points, 18:30.72 and junior Austin Blocke? who Tiffany Blakely said. "We’ve been seeing and the girls fourth at lhe Division 3 Pre- sixth, behind Fennville, with 137 points. great limes in practice, but without seeing the Rcgional cross country races they hosted at Junior Aubrey Aukerman led the DK girls ahead of Calvin Christian 47, Delton Kellogg placed 19th overall in 19:10.90. .results in the races. I told [Walker] that his Gilmore ('ar Museum Wednesday afternoon, with her tenth-place lime of 21 minutes 46.78 73, Black River 87, Fennville 93 and DK had freshman Austin Baglev f>4th North Pointe Christian 154. best chance to qualify for regionals would be ’l he top four teams and top seven individuals seconds. Halena Philhps W;‘s 12^ jn 20:05.78), sophomore Isaac Shepard PQth’ 13 Four of thc seven Delton Kellogg boys ran lo go out and put in a fast first mile and then not on those teams in pre-regional races DK had just six girls running s across the slate this week advan Joclle White set a new' personal record with their fastest race ever. The leader of that group ’•Lay with that front group. ance to the her lime of 24:13.19 that put hCr jn 25^ p|ace r "Needless to say. I was surprised to sec him regional round of the state tollman*, •‘incut this She was just iKhind leammaic Rasey Kapleyn * lead thc entire boys field for almost the first year, a new step to limit gathering sizes another sophomore. who was 24th in 2404 84 during the coronavirus pandemic. l/uarter mile. He put all of our plans into l he Panther pack also included freshman action and hung on to reach his personal goals Division 3 boys’ race is set to take off at The 11:30 Brea Chandler 28th n 4^ and (gel under 19 minutes and qualify for region­ a.m. in Allendale Saturday, with the girls' nioie Lily anna Sinclair 34th jn 283g al*;). It was amazing to watch how aggressive­ regional race lo follow. Saranac s"Pl'°1ml’.,'1^,ine Hill was thc IXlton Kellogg varsity head coach ly he ran the nice, figJiting for each place and Dale It was a .'bort afternoon in Kalamazoo win in thc opening round of the state t... first girl across the fi’'1 ,nK\ earnint. •» itnu* Grimes said he got great performances passing runners.” from e state touma. . , „ , >nenl m Bellevue last week. te Wun >* Sophomore Adam Blakely shaved oil near­ his teams overall, with many running their ol 20:36.15. Calvin ChriMi^" •* lll"e Wednesday. •lonathah IJouwiicm was th« । >omor<Host Kalamazoo Christian and Hackett Hackett Catholic Prep opened lhe after ­ best limes of the season and improving on ly a minute and a halt from his previous best 20:56.58 and Black River 1 i|y7 .n, P Catholic Prep each scored an eight-goal victo­ noon’s action with u 9-1 over Calhoun County time ol 2020 to place overall dl "ie their ranking heading into lhe meet. They Panthers especially had their sights set on lltitd with a time of 20:59.26. ? Li,Bur" was ry in the Division 4 District Semifinals hosted Christian. ’pre regional m 25:33 0. Senior Micah Ordway । . by (he Comets. The rival Fighting Irish and Comets met up finishing ahead of Fennville. "He’s been working on fonn and the tediKellogg U,v„ wilh a thinl Pk,. Hie Maple Valley varsity boys Mxxvr team Saturday afternoon back at Kalamazoo fell 8 0 to Kalamazoo Christian in its second Christian High School for their District Final, tournament came, after the I.ions scored a with the Comets pulling out a 2-1 win. DK harriers tally top four spots at D3 Pre-Regional Lions’ tournament run ends in district semifinals �14 —Thursday. October 29. 2020 - - The Hasliop* Banner Playoffs are here and Brrtt Bremer Sf^»ti\ Editor 'fhe Saxon*’ open the DniMOn 4 Football •payoffs a< thc second seed in their distrid. ’one of tuo Barry County varsity RxMball jWums that gets the chance to host an opening ’’inind game tn this postseason in which every *^am in thc state gets lhe chance at at least orx. yore ballgame. <. Hastings opens the postseason again*! a •Three Rivers team that scored its only victory 'of the season last week over Allegan. >•< ’u in over thc Tigers was just the >ecoiul $ii season the Three Rivers Wildcats hud .scored more than a single touchdown in a .bailgame. , . . . S Saxon head couch Jamie Murphy smd tha flhprovod practice habits over the course: o Stye season have really powered the Hasting£ S'This group has always had a special co t Xenon. *- Hustings senior center Gray son Litton said after hi* team’s w in oy cr Charlotte close the regular season. “We have been Aether since we have been m third grade. Il something where we have played together. Xd we have built up a chemistry over years •and years and years. bn -Rc illv. it just comes down to the team‘fork? he added “The chemistry we have .built. It is something I have never seen in a ‘locker room before ever. I sure it has hap'ptned. but with us it is just a really special •connection that is something that I am alw ays igoing to remember.” C The Saxons last played a postseason game SH 2012, the last lime the leant won as many as five games in a season. Thomapple Kellogg plays host to Kenowa Hills in Division 3 Friday, Lakewood travels —to Portland for a Division 5 match-up Friday and Delton Kellogg will be on lhe road at Bronson for a Division 7 district opener Friday. The I K TYojans and Kenowa Hills Knights Saxon sophomore fullback Robby Slaughter is greeted in the end zone by Evan missed out on their meeting this season in the reworked OK Gold Conference due to lhe late Eastman (center) and Lanny Teunessen (left) after scoring his team's second start to lhe season. The new conference foes touchdown of the night Friday at Charlotte. (Photo by Brett Bremer) will gel the chance lo face off in Middleville Harper Creek 4-2. 2-2 Friday. The TYojans draw the home date on just seven rushes. Lanny Teunessen had 66 Lumen Christi 2-4, 2-3 thanks to their week six win over Forest Hills yards rushing and Harp added 33 in his return Marshall 2-4,2-3 Eastern. The Hawks bested thc Knights in to the T in lhe Saxons’ backfield. Northwest 0-5,0-4 their OK Gold Conference match-up this fall. Corbin Ulrich and Owen Winegar led the OK Gold Conference The Trojans and Knights both defeated Ottaw a defensive effort again, with Ulrich recording G.R. Catholic Central 6-0.6 0 Hills and Wayland as they made their way 12 tackles and Winegar seven. Teammate through the conference slate. South Christian 5-1.5-1 Victory Ramirez had an interception. Cedar Springs 4-2,4-2 . Lakewood goes on the road to face Portland “We got Dan Harp back at halfback. He did Thornapple Kellogg 3-3,3-3 Friday in Division 5. The Raiders head into a really nice job. He has been out with a Forest Hills Eastern 3-3. 3-3 lhe state tournament having won five straight high-ankle sprain and it was kind of nice get­ Kenowa Hills 2-4. 2-4 ballgames, including a weck-five 42 0 throt­ ting him back on thc field. He was a little tling of lhe Ionia learn that bested Lakewood Wayland 1-5, 1-5 hungry and lie wol doing some really nice in the final game of the regular season. Only Ottawa Hills 0-6.0-6 blocking. We'kindbT stayed on assignment up DeWilt, lhe top ranked team in the stale in Southwestern Athletic Conference Valles front with the offensive line. Winecar and Division 3. bested the sixth ranked Raiders 5-1.3-0 Schoolcraft Grayson Pau on up front did a fantastic job this fall. 5-1.3-1 Lawton ’ leading up front,” Hastings head coach Jamie Both Bronson and Delton Kellogg open thc Delton Kellogg 3-3, 2-2 Murphy said. Division 7 postseason three wins. The Saugatuck One of the highlights of the night for the 3-3. 1-3 Bronson Vikings were 3-2 on the season, fall­ 0-5,0-3 Galesburg-Augusta Saxons w as getting to celebrate a Harp touch­ ing in their first two ballgames before closing Greater Lansing 4t tivities Conference down for the first time this season after he the regular season with victories over Union 51,4-0 Olivet plowed into the end zone from three yards out Lake wood 3-3. 3-1 City. Quincy and Springport. with 6:04 to go in the game. Kaiden Maple Valley opens its 8-player postseason 2-4 2-2 l/islie • Shumway's extra-point kick following the TD tournament with a trip to Vandcrcook Lake Stockbridge ; 1 2-4 J -3 pushed thc Saxons lo their biggest lead of lhe Sal unlay . 0-6.0-4 Perry evening at 37-12. Here is a round-up of J last week’s local grid Hastings had 24-point leads after a sev­ Local Standings (W-L, play off points) iron action. en-yard touchdown run by Russell two min­ ■ Hastings 5-1 (47.667) Hastings 37. Charlotte 13 utes into the second half that was followed by ■ Thomapple Kelloge 3-3 (35.833) Every Saxon drive but one ended with a a Russell two-point conversion run That . luikewood * 3-3(22.833) touchdown or the end of a half Friday night at score pushed lhe Saxon lead lo 24-0 to start Delton Kellogg 3-3 (22.667) Charlotte. the game. . Maple Valley (8-playcr)3-3 T he Hastings varsity football team finished Charlotte got on the scoreboard with five Conference Standings off a 5-1 regular season with a 37-18 win over minutes to go in the third quarter on a 54-yard the Orioles. (overall, conference) touchdown pass from Charlie Grant to Bo Interstate 8 Athletic Conference TJ Russell scored three touchdowns for lhe Bandt. Hastings 5-1,4-1 Saxons and Robby Slaughter and Dan Harp Russell pushed the Saxon lead back to 24 4-2. 3-1 had one each. Russell finished the night with points with a six-yard touchdown run on lhe Parma Western 3-3. 3-2 12 rushes for 182 yards and Slaughter sur­ second play of the fourth quarter. Russell Coldwater 3-3.3-2 passed the 100-yard mark too with 107 yards scored on a two-yard run on the first play of Penn fie Id Snxon defenders Logan Nye and Corbin Ulrich are the first to wrap up Charlotte ballcarrier Ash S fin s' 37 18 win al Charlotte’ High School Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) n La9uir on a run during The Saxons’ TJ Russell finds space to run around the left side of the line during the Hastings varsity football team's non-conference victory at Charlotte Friday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) the second quarter to score the game’s first points, with quarterback Mason Denton run­ ning in the two-point conversion after that Saxon TD. The Orioles turned the ball over on downs on their own 38-yard-linc after that first Russell score, and Hastings put together a quick three and a half minute drive that ended with a nine-yard Slaughter TD run and a twopoint conversion run by Teunessen. Charlotte’s offense did put together two big first half drives. The Orioles’ opening drive of lhe ballgame lasted more than nine minutes, but ended in a fourth-down pass from the Saxon 16-yard-line falling incomplete. The Orioles used up most of the last five and a half minutes of the second quarter, fol­ low tng Slaughter’s TD run, with another drive deep into Saxon territory that ended with Hastings’ Victor Ramirez intercepting a Grant pass at the goal-line and returning it to lhe 15. Denton was picked off once in lhe end zone on the night as well. A 52-yard run by Slaughter through lhe middle on a thirdand-13 play had the Saxons in good position to answer lhe Orioles’ first touchdown late in the third quarter before the turnover. The Hastings defense made up for lhe mis­ cue, forcing the Orioles to turn the ball over on downs near midfield. A 39-yard run by Russell on the final play of the third quarter had lhe Saxons right back down near thc Oriole end zone. “They never seem to get shaken, whether we’re down two scores or we’re up two scores they stay focused and they play with intent,” Murphy said of his Saxons. “They each know that they have a job to do and they don’t try to do more than their job. They understand that 11 guys need to fit together on a field.” Grant was 11 -of-24 passing on lhe night for 166 yards. Brandt had four receptions for 83 yards to lead the Oriole receiving crew. Ashton Laguire had 22 rushes for 133 yards on the ground for the Orioles. Laguire and Luke Buzzard kept hope alive for their team with touchdown runs in the fourth quarter. Laguire scored on a 69 yard run to gel his team within 30-12 with 10:39 to play in (he game. Buzzard scored on a five-yard run with 1:51 left on the game clock. Thornapple Kellogg 17. Forest Hills Eastern 8 The Hawks held the football for fewer than ten minutes Friday night. The combination of the Thomapple Kellogg offense moving lhe football and the Trojan defense preventing lhe Hawks from getting moving themselves led to a 17-8 victory for thc TK varsity football team in its regular season finale at Forest Hills Eastern High School. “We had a little more fun tonight,”TK head coach Jeff Dock said. “We held the ball for 38 or 39 minutes of lhe game. We had the ball a long time. We did a lot of good things up front. Mitchell |Middleton) ran hard. Sam McKeown, we moved him back to fullback and he spelled Mitchell a few limes and then he finished off the game. He was fantastic. “Collectively, the five guys up front, four out of those five arc seniors, they did a fantas­ tic job of trusting their rules and playing hard and finishing blocks. They moved people out of the way. There were some pretty good holes.” The group of seniors Noah Kriekaard, Blake Monroe, Carter West, Austin Rounds and junior Ben Hanson had a strong night along the offensive line. Dock said it took a bit for the guys up front to adjust to the Hawks’ blitzing tendencies, but they started picking them up before too long. “Our goal this week was to get back to basics and we wanted to gel good at our base sluff and I think up front they bought in and did it,” Docks said. “Il was good. T hey have been great all year.” The Trojans scored the first 17 points of the game. Middleton scored on a 26-yard nin with 4:36 to play in thc second quarter and then tacked on u 42-yard field goal as time ran out in the first half to gel his team up 10 0. I K quarterback Reese Garbrecht ended a quick scoring drive with a one-yard TD plunge alter FHE fumbled away the opening kickoff lo the second half. Middleton hit extra-points after both Trojan touchdowns. Middleton also had a nice punt to pin the Hawks back al their own scven-yard-Iine early in the fourth quarter. The Trojan offense was mostly in control from the start. The Trojans had a 14-pIay drive that covered nearly 60 yards over the course of almost eight minutes to open the game before turning the ball over to the Hawks. “Our defense came on the field and shut them down.” Dock said. “ It was aw'esome. Our defense responded as they have all year. They came out and played well and flew around and they forced them to punt.” TTic Trojan offense had it second drive of lhe game stall out inside the Hawks’ ten-yardline. The TK defense forced a quick punt again, and the Trojans’ started what would be their first scoring drive of the evening in Hawk territory. An interception by Jonah Summerhays got the Trojans’ the bail back with 1:50 to go in the first half near midfield and the TK offense moved in for the field goal that pushed its lead to double digits. Middleton closed fhe night with 29 rushes for 164 yards.’ McKeown finished with' 12 carries for 54 yards. Jake DeJong led lhe TK defense “With 65 tackles. Alex Bonnema had 55 tackles and an interception. Noah Rosenberg finished the night with 25 tackles including a sack. Carsen Burbridge recovered the fumble to set up the Trojans' final TD at the opening of the second half. The Hawks put together one long third-quar­ ter drive, but it ended in a missed field goal attempt. The Hawks got their touchdown with 2:41 to go in thc game on a 31 -yard pass from John Morgan to Jacob /Xnnbrcster. and Morgan ran in the two-point try. Armbrester had three receptions on lhe night, covering 91 yards. The Trojans now await their Division 3 playoff opponent. Coach Dock said Friday night he is expecting his team to host a ball­ game in Middleville next weekend. Schoolcraft 33, Delton Kellogg 7 Tilings couldn’t have gone a whole lot bet­ ter for the Panthers early on, and it still wasn’t enough lo hang with Schoolcraft. The Eagles finished off a 3-0 season in the Southwest Athletic Conference Valley Division and a 5-1 season overall with a 33-7 win over lhe Delton Kellogg varsity football team in Delton Friday night. The Eagles turned the ball over on two of its first three possessions, and the Panthers recovered an on-side kick following their only touchdown of lhe ballgame. Schoolcraft still managed lo lake a 15-7 lead into thc half and then extended it as Delton Kellogg turned the ball over a couple times in lhe second half. Philip Holcomb scored Delton Kellogg's lone touchdow n, returning a Schoolcraft fum­ ble 35 yards for a score. Gavin Houtkoopep converted lhe extra-point kick to pull DK within 8-7 at lhe time. Schoolcraft opened lhe scoring on its open­ ing drive, getting a 15-yard touchdown run from quarterback Alex Thole, 'fhe Eagles extended their lead with the first of four touchdowns by Jimmy Downs who rushed for a three-yard I'D late in the first half, scored on a 19-yard run in lhe third quarter and a twoyard run. then added a 25-yard touchdown reception from Thole in lhe fourth. Delton Kellogg closes lhe season nt 3-3 overall and 2-2 in the SAC Valley. Maple Valley 22, Bdlexue 8 Lion head coach Marty Manin liked having a homecoming crowd and hearing car horns from some of those outside lhe stadium blar mg for big plays beyond the fences. His players liked getting the Uu|e Bn) Jug back. "You could see after th<c game how excited and elated they were to wi n that.” Manin said. “They definitely playcc1 with a purpose tonight. That is kind of wl ini has been missing all >car is playing with a purpose. Ho()efu||C we’re getting better at the right time.” The Maple Valley v.irsi 8-player football Continued next page �The Hastings Banner—Thursday. Ociobt,' 23.2020 W Page IS LY?es win GLAC, fall to P^Mop team, prep for postseason °n' ,w° to Division 2, "• the n finsle at home ngainsl re8<*lw Wtottodonen^S^tonigh, a/ lo their 34-2 srwi'ihe Lakcwxxj"l-Ll|"! !tote Divls'»n Catholic Central . Monroe St. Estate in DiS^t? toM^hallhTr T°"d defc«»r 'he X. ,en,W0O<l and S‘ h«>lcran the onl►other teams to win a sinclc set gainst the Vjkmgs this fall L 1 t. n has been a busy stretch c|os<; m)| f”r >'e l-ake*o°d girls. They bushed off another undefeated Greater fSstuJd'.Th Conferen« Championship V.H byeeoring Straight "ins O«r Maple Valley Stockbridge and Uansing ST', t i *>C C0,nI*®n’ncc's ">P four toutnajjnenl al Lake wood High School. k Lakewood defeated Maple Valiev tn g-20. Stockbridge 25-8. 25-10 and lensing ’ -5’*6- Ukew°<’d ^nior Aubrey O Gorman scored her 1.500th career kill during the day Saturday. She tied her sis­ ter Maradtth for the team kill lead on the day with 25 each, bellow senior Sophie Duits had ten kills. It was a big all-around day for Aubrey who also had six blocks and eight aees Sophomore setter Skylar Bump had 67 assists at thc GLAC Tournament, to go with nine aces and 11 digs. Freshman libero Carley Piercefield led lhe Vikings in digs with 21 and Maradtih added 12. Paige Wolverton chipped in five aces for the Vikings at lhe tournament. Alli Pickard had ten digs and Zayda Kruger had ten. The Vikings defeated both Caledonia and Mount Pleasant at a tri in Caledonia Monday evening before heading to Marshall 1’uesday where il scored wins over Harper Creek and Marshall. Lakewood defeated Harper Creek 25-10, 25-17 and the host Red Hawks 25-21.25-20. St. Mary- bested thc Lakewood ladies by the scores of 25-22,23-25, 17-15. . In those three matches in Marshall Aubrey had 36 kills and Maradith 35. Bump put up 72 assists to go with nine kills and 19 digs. Lakewood freshman Alivia Everitt hits an attack by the block of Mount Pleasant senior Mackenzie Egger during the Vikings’ win over the Oilers Monday at the Caledonia Tri. (Photo by Breit Bremer) Piercefield had 30 digs. Aubrey had five blocks .and Maradilh four. Kruger led the Vikings in aces with five and Marndith had four. In thc tri at Caledonia, lhe Vikings bested the host Fighting Scots 25-20, 25-22, 25-23 and Mount Pleasant 25-9,25-14,25-18. “I thought Caledonia played really well.” Lakewood head coach Cameron Rowland said. “I have seen them play a lot this year and I think that is the best they have played. They have a lot of options if they’re passing well and they did. so we had to make some defen- sive adjustments and up our service game a little bit. We answered lhe call. “I think that we have had one practice in thc past six days because we have been play­ ing so much. It is nice to see some of those things and then get back into practice and get ready for lhe postseason.” The postseason starts for thc Vikings Monday when they lake on Olivet in the opening round of their Division 2 District Tournament. FOOTBALL, continued from previous page team closed out lhe 2020 regular season with a 22-8 victory over visiting Bellevue Friday night. Now the Lions await a postseason opponent for the first time at the 8-playcr level, one of six teams not included in lhe MHSAA’s two championship divisions. Coach Marlin is cxpcxriuU that his team has done enough to cam one of tire tournament’s top three seeds and a home football game next weekend. Thc Broncos scored the game’s first points Friday, but Maple Valley senior all-stater Hugheston was lhe only other player to pul points on the scoreboard. Heckathom scored three touchdowns, recorded a safely loo and ran in lhe two-point conversion after his first touchdown to account for all 22 Lion points. Heckathom scored on a two-yard run with 2:22 to go int eh first quarter and then ran in the two-point try to lie the game at 8-8. A bad snap on a punt put the Lion defense in bad position around its own 15-yard-line and Bellevue capitalized to take an 8-0 lead on a one-yard touchdown run and a two-point run by Nick Hayward. Heckathom recorded the safety with just under two minutes lo play in the third quarter, and then scored on a 30-yard run after a suc­ cessful on-side kick by Lion kicker Owen Bailey and his special teams’ unit. Heckathom tacked on an eight-yard touchdown run with just under five minutes to go in the game. Martin said a couple nice pass plays from quarterback Blaze Scnsiba led to the Lions’ first touchdown, and the team s next 1D was all Heckathom’s strength and will. • "Hueheston really ran lhe ball tonight in the second half,” Martin said. "He really laid it out there. His touchdown run in the second half he broke a tackle, broke a tackle, broke a tackle and then broke another tackles as he was running away. He’s not the fastest guy. but he pulled away.” . The Lions’ senior all-slate runmng back concluded the night with 27 rushes for 100 yards. Dillon Jorgenson added 11 rushes lor 37 yards. Sensiba was 4-of-7 passing for 7 yards. Jorgenson had a 36-yard reception and Reese Proctor-Burhans hauled in a 25) ar “The Lion coach was pleased with his team in all three phases of the game. 37ie"ey£& tackles. Hectoidiorn Taylor six. DcPP^1 t Bassett each dans II..'. Huntcr b|e for lhe Lions nro„cO pass as well. nidly ot wally good Jt,b-. Hieriplincd all year long. We weren’t playn g with our eye discipline, t but eye discipline is keeping your eyes where they have to be instead of Jooking into the backfield to try and find thc ball." “We were able to keep our eyes on our keys and wc were able to react very quickly.” Martin remembered that the last time a Maple Valley football team played in a post­ season tournament it was in 11-player football a couple years ago when lhe defense came together in the final game of the regular sea­ son and nearly carried the Lions to a district championship Ionia 42. Lakewood 7 It was a dominant performance by the Bulldogs in thc fog on Thursday night. Ionia’s varsity football team defeated rival Lakewood 42-7 in thc programs’ annual regu­ lar season finale, with the Bulldogs earning their first victory' of the season. The two teams now await their postseason match-ups which will be announced by the MHSAA this week­ end. The Bulldogs limited Lakewood to just 107 yards of offense, in part because the Bulldog offense put together methodical drive after methodical drive, the way Lakewood head coach Matt Markwart likes his team to do it. Lakewood scored its lone touchdown with 4:12 to play in the opening quarter on a 47-yard run by senior back Garrett Stank. Viking kicker Elizabeth Minard booled thc extra-point to lie the contest at 7-7. The Bulldogs kept marching to the end zone and slopped the Vikings progress. Likcwood didn’t manage another first down until early in lhe fourth quarter when the Bulldogs had built their to the final margin. “The whole team did a good job. We had guys that all played hard last night,” Markwart said. “Sawyer (Stoepker) had good runs. Garrett had good runs. Jayce Hansen connect­ ed on a couple passes and made some plays. Denny Sauers made plays. Our defense al times, guys made plays. It just wasn’t our night as a whole.” Stank finished the ballgame with eight rushes for 51 yards. Sawyer Stoepker had three receptions for the Lake wood offense, covering 34 yards. Quarterback Jayce Hansen was 4-of-10 passing for 26 yards. Lakewood turned the ball over only once, losing a fumble on the opening drive of the second half. Markw'art said his team was short-handed Thursday night. A group ol four guys unable to play left lhe Vikings with a roster of 15 for thc ballgame. There were Vikings playing two ways who normally don’t do that. The Bulldog offense eventually found a strength and took advantage over and over again. “’lliey were able to hit us on our defensive right side. They had a pretty good offensive tackle [Aidan Chile) that we saw on film was pretty good, a pretty good lineman.” Markwart said. "He was able lo slide down and get everybody to our linebackers. We weren't able to get over and fill the hole and stop the play.” Ionia quarterback Blake Bookie ended the Bulldogs’ ensuing drive with a two-yard touchdown mn that put his team up 28-7 al the time. It was one of three Bookie touch-1 downs on the night. He also scored on a 1-yard run six and a half minutes into the contest and on a ten-yard run in the final min­ ute of the first half. The Bulldogs also got a six-yard touch­ down run by Austin Hillabrandt five and a half minutes into thc second half, which was followed by a two-point conversion that pul his team up 15-7 at lhe time. Tanner Gregory closed thc touchdown scoring for Ionia on a six-yard scoring run with 2:28 to play in lhe third quarter. Bookie was 4-of-6 passing for 36 yards in lhe bailgame and rushed 18 times for 89 yards. Hillabrandt led the Bulldogs on lhe ground with 15 carries for 176 yards. Gregory' finished the night with nine rushes for 64 yards. Lakewood ends lhe regular season with a 3-3 record, Ionia at 1-5. Lakewood sophomore setter Skylar Bump settles under a pass during her team's win over Mount Pleasant at the Caledonia Tri Monday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) . Alford wins pre-regional, one of four Vikings to advance The two fastest 1-akewood boys and two fastest Lakewood girls from their Division 2 Pre-Rcgional race al the St. Francis Retreat Center in DeWitt Thursday (Oct. 22) earned spots in this Saturday’s Division 2 Regional al DeWitt High School. Vtking senior Nalhan /Mford won the boys’ race al the pre-regional, a new round lo lhe stale tournament for 2020 to help prevent overcrowding during the global pandemic, hilling thc finish line in 16 minutes 47.66 seconds. He was the only guy to come in under 17 minutes, with Olivet senior Noah Griffith, his Greater Lansing Activities Conference rival, second in 17:0135. Nathan will be joined at the regional race by his younger brother Ryan Alford, a sopho­ more, who placed 28th overall in 19:03 32. The top four teams and top seven individu­ als not on those learns at pre-rcgionals across the slate last week earned spots in this week­ end’s regional races where the top three teams and top seven individuals qualify for the Division 2 Lower Peninsula Cross Country­ Finals that will be held at MIS Nov. 6. Seniors Katie Acker and Anja Kelley from lhe Lakewood girls’ team also were among the seven individual regional qualifiers from last week’s race. It was a close fight for the four team spots in the boys’ pre-regional with Lansing Catholic winning die day’s race with 53 points. Mason was second with 65 points, ahead of Charlotte 80, Eaton Rapids 82. Olivet 84. Lakewood 158 and Jackson Northwest 192. • The Lakewood team got a numbers’ boost late in the season to qualify in the team com­ petition. Junior Clayton Dumond placed 44th in 23:1156, senior Brady Gawne 45th in 24:09.68. freshman Emil Myers 46th in 24”20.25 and senior Colin Heyl 48ih in 27:29.40. ' It was lhe third race of lhe season fdr Dumond, Gawne. Myers and Heyl who joined the team for the Out. 16 Mustang invitational in the lead-up to the postseason. Mason won the girls’ race Thursday with 46 points, ahead of Lansing Catholic 53. Olivet 72. Eaton Rapids 102. Charlotte 117; Lakewood 135 and Northwest 175. Mason freshman Meghan Ford was the individual champion in 18:35.70. with Lansing Catholic sophomore Hannah Pricco lhe runner-up in 19:00.15 more than half a minute ahead of anyone else. Acker placed eighth overall to lead lhe Vikings with a lime of 20:4058. Kelley was 27th in 23:30.12. " The Viking team also had freshman Claire Fortier 32nd in 23:57.40. sophomore Sadie Brearley 33rd in 23:59.59 and sophomore Emma Lancaster 35th in 25:24.44. Rounding out lhe seven for the Vikings were sophomore Gabby Rosenberger in 42nd-place with a time of 25:24.44 and junior Madason Morelli 47th in 26:40.44. Did you know that you can read The Hastings Banner in an ELECTRONIC and PRINT edition? WEEKLY UPDATES .* NEWS | SPORTS \ COURT NEWS . LEGALS ;? MORE I . B.W..X <■ hIsmgsBanNER (269) 945-9554 www.hastingsbanner.com �Pace 16 — Thursday, October 29.2020 — The Hastings Banner ____ ■ m DK/TK/Hastings girls swim team honors teammate at Cancer Awareness v Sophie Bates Xfq/y Writer Last year. Lydia Cole, then a ThomappleKellogg junior, was thc star of tl»r Delton Kellogg/Thomapplc Kellogg/HastuigK varsity girls swim team’s annual Cancer Aw arene* s Meet . Cole had been diagnosed with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors at the end o! her soph­ omore year. She’d continued to swim the 2019-201season while undergoing chemother­ apy treatments, and her leam dedicated the Cancer Awareness Meet to supporting Cor and her family, using the slogan Lydia.” . Cole - who was interviewed prior to inc 2019 Cancer Awareness Meet canccr scared her less (han it had. Swimming wi her team and slaying busy kept cancer rot being lhe focus of her life. She had found a sense of normalcy .'nd felt cont cn * could beat cancer. . w “The diagnosis isn’t the tough part It is the rest of it. going through scans and now knou inc what lhe outcome is going to be andI when the outcome tsn’t so gnat hmntg to deal w> h it. 1 feel like I have handled it a lot better than f it doesn’t scare me that much any - ''cole. 16. d.ed >' » fe* m°n,hS l0'Cr in '’"‘hurdov. DK/TK/Hastings girls again . ‘ ’\rrhJir Pink swim caps - Still adorned aS thcy h°Mcd ,hC Wayland girls swim team for the 2020 Cancer Cole’s name - along with thc names of others who have fought or continue to fight cancer - in thick pink marker on lheir backs, shoulders, arms and legs. In keep­ inn with tradition, swimmers on both teams wore pink caps and lied pink ribbons on their suits. Pink balloons and ribbons decorated the pool area, along with pink signs that read ••Two teams, one hope.” DK/TK Hastings Coach Carl Schoessel started lhe Cancer Awareness Meet after his wife. lirella Schoessel, began losing her bat­ tle with breast cancer; she died in 2011. Since then. Schoessel and his leam raise money for lhe American Cancer Society at lhe meet and, over the years, have donated sever­ al thousand dollars lo lhe society. Last year’s Delton Kellogg'Thornapple Kellogg'Hastings freshman Elizabeth Middleton makes her way through the water during the breaststroke leg of the 200-yard medley relay to open the Cancer Awareness Meet against visiting Wayland Thursday at the Community Education and Recreation Center in Hastings. (Photo by Sophie Bates) DK/TK/Hastings swimmers sit poolside, watching the diving portion of the meet, t Q names of those fighting or who havo fought cancer visible on their backs. Kasey KaPteyn a sophomore at Delton Kel ogg, places hef hands on her team­ mate s shoulders as a show of encour­ agement. proceedings Wcrc . |Q Cole-S famjly lo help cover the cost of her treatments; this year they were donalcd lo lhe Lydia Cole Scholarship Fund, in addition lo the Cancer Awareness Society Loretta Schoesscl’s name, along with Cole s. was written on cach of the DK/TK/ Hastings athletes. It was a big njghl for DK/TK/Hastings swim leam s season too They went into lhe meet undefeated with a 4-0 record in the OK Rainbow Tier H conference, while the Wayland team was 3-1 in conference duals. . S^h<Je^sel kicked off the meet by recogniz­ ing Cole s family and noted this event would not be like previous Cancer Awareness meets. “Due to COVlD.many of the things we’ve done at this meet in past years won’t be able to be done tonight," Schoessel said, referring to a bake sale, raffle and chuck-a-duck fund­ raiser - where spectators through rubber ducks from thc balcony into a life ring in the pool. Without these traditional modes of fund­ raising, the team has raised money by asking family members, friends and others for dona­ tions. Additionally, spectators could donate by putting money in buckets labeled either for the Lydia Cole Scholarship Fund or Cancer Awareness Society, depending on what they wanted their donation to support. While thc total funds raised from Thursday’s meet have yet lo be counted. Schoessel said Friday they might have raised a few thousand dollars. "From what I’ve been told and what I saw, it looks like we’re going to easily get a couple thousand dollars.” Schoessel said. Thc meet began with a flurry of activity as athletes paced the poolside cheering passion­ ately for teammates, their voices echoing off the tiled room, through the crowd, and up into the rafters. The swimmers approached the pool, ready lo complete their events. They paused only lo dedicate races to those who’ve been impacted by cancer, reading lheir names aloud before the event began. “Before each event, thc names of the peo­ ple wc want to honor and remember will be announced,” Schoessel said. Thc 100-yard breast stroke event was dedi­ cated to Cole; it was her favorite event. 'Die meet ended with even more intensity than it started, as the Wayland girls beat the DK/TK/Hastings swimmers by only 1 point, with a score to 93-92. Before thc meet, DK/ TK/Hastings was in first place in its confer­ ence; now, thc team is tied with Wayland for first place. “We knew it was going to be very close going in. In fact. I had told the girls it could come down to a one-point lead,” Schoessel said. “There’s no hard feelings because wc really value this meet.” “We would have loved to have won.” The final words of Coach Schoesscl’s speech, which began the meet, ring true for the DK/TK/Hastings girls as they look to come back from Thursday’s defeat. “Finally, the motto of our meet: Support the fighters, admire the survivors, honor thc taken,” Schoessel said, “and never, ever give up hope.” TK girls and most @f fooys’ team heading to ©teego Regional Brett Bremer Sports Editor After a few tries this season, lhe South Christian girls finally passed lhe TK ladies. 'Hie Trojans likely gel just one chance to try and finish lhe year in from of the Sailors, al lhe Division 2 Regional race in Otsego Saturday morning. South Christian’s varsity girls’ cross coun­ try learn edged lhe Thomapple Kellogg girls for the runner-up spot behind state ranked Grand Rapids Christian at the team’s Division 2 Pre-Regional race last Friday at South Christian High School. It was as strong enough performance by both squads to advance in lhe stale tourna­ ment as the top four learns and top seven individuals not on those teams at last week’s pre-regional races advanced to this weekend’s regionals. The TK girls’ team will be joined at lhe regional by five members of the TK boys’ team that finished among the seven individual regional qualifiers from their pre-regional. The Thornapple Kellogg girls finished ahead of thc Sailors al each of the three OK Gold Conference competitions this fall, including 12 points belter at lhe OK Gold Conference Einale Oct. 20 in Middleville. The top three learns and top seven individuals not on those three qualifying teams will qualify for lhe Division 2 Lower Peninsula Cross Country Finals at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn Nov. 6. Grand Rapids Christian won lhe girls’ pre-regional race hosted by South Christian last Friday, with only 26 points. South Christian was second with 67 and TK third with 73 points. Wayland earned lhe fourth regional qualifying team spot with 94 points, beating out West Michigan Aviation 107 and Grand River Prep 177. The Grand Rapids Christian girls head into lhe regional round of lhe state tournament ranked ninth in Division 2. a handful of placed behind No. 3 Otsego which won its pre-regional Friday as well and will be competing on its home course along with lhe qualifiers from South Christian this weekend. With three teams advancing to the state finals, the competition between the South Christian girls and Thomapple Kellogg girls could quite possibly tie for that final slate qualifying position. "It was a hard day to say the least, but the girls persevered, and I couldn’t be prouder with how they handled themselves and took care of business,” IK varsity girls’ coach Sam Wilkinson said after the pte-regional. “With this said. South Christian had a strong show­ ing, demonstrating that they have no intention of lying down and letting us waltz into the state meet by way of qualifying at next week’s regional. This is fine with us though because, heck, we don’t even know how to waltz." Wilkinson said his girls’ hearts were broken when they learned that junior teammate Kendall Snyder would not be able lo race in the pre-regional. “After hearing the girls talking, I knew they had their heads in lhe right place," Wilkinson said. “They expressed feeling horrible about Kendall, but also spoke with an energy that said, ‘We can, and will, do this, and wc owe it to ourselves and our team to make it happen/ Once 1 had (his sense, I knew they didn’t need anything more from me. They knew what to do.” Trojan junior Jessica Durkee and sopho­ more Emelia MacDonald both went out strong. Wilkinson called MacDonald a “war­ rior” after her performance, which led her team. She placed sixth overall in 20 minutes 27.48 seconds on lhe muddy, slick course. Durkee was right behind her in seventh with a time of 20:31.83. Reluming to the TK line-up after some time out. freshman Holly Veiling worked to make up for the hole left by Snyder’s absence. “It sure was a blessing to have her show up the way she did,” Wilkinson said of Veiling. “She lit it up and ran a PR of 21:30 (21:3O.O9, which put her in 14th place). This was the direct result of her taking personal responsi­ bility to stay sharp while she was out. She got after it day after day and came back ready to face lhe trials of racing. “Following her sister, and not far behind was Lindsey Veiling (22nd, 22:08.08), who did great and has been gradually improving her times, and I believe she’ll continue to do so next week. Lindsey is steady, solid, and critical to our mid pack.” Right behind Lindsey were few more TK; sophomores. Madison Nagel was 24th in* 22:21.24. Lucy VanDemark 27th in 22:3234 and Emma Thompson 28th in 22:35.87S Thompson set a new personal record Friday too. .s' “I had just said to (Thompson) lhe day* before to come ready to race because you never know what might happen. When I said that 1 wasn't picturing what actually hap/ pened. but Emma really stepped up anif stepped up strong for us.” coach Wilkinson! said “She ran a PR, also on the heels of being; out for close contact. Although she might notbelieve it yet, I think she can go even faster. Ihope after tonight she’s starting to believe and is seeing what it takes to make that happen.! because it’s in her.” ’. Plainwell and Hamilton are the top con-; tenders for that third spot behind Grand Rapids Christian and Otsego from the other pre-regional feeding into this weekend’s Otsego regional. Grand Rapids Christian had lhe three fast­ est girls Friday. Freshman Natalie VanOlteren won the pre-regional race in 19:4120. Senior Olivia Waalkes was thc runner-up in 20:01.42 and freshman teammate Adia Sikkema was third in 20:04.81. West Michigan /kviation freshman Emma DeVries placed fourth in 20:11.74 and Wayland sophomore Olivia Barabas was fifth in 20:23.60. South Christian had its seven girls finish between tenth and 20th. The Sailors were led by freshman Mallory HHultenga who was tenth overall in 20:58.49. The TK boys team is sending freshman Lucas VanMeter, junior Mathew Smith, seniors Brennan Lutz and Howie Frizzell and sophomore Aidan Buist to the regional thanks to lheir pre-regional finishes. Grand Rapids Christian won the boys’ pre-regional with a score of 28 points. South Christian was second with 52 points, ahead of West Michigan Aviation 74, Wayland Union 91. Thomapple Kellogg 117 and Grand River Prep 173. Grand Rapids Christian had three of the four fastest guys Friday, led by junior Ben Zwart who finished in 16:54.0). Eagle junior Jack Peterson was second in 17:29.69 and his teammate Tinsae Nelson, a junior was fourth in 17:45.64. Kelloggsville senior Christian Martinez broke up the Grand Rapids Christian pack to place third in 17:37.95. VanMeter led lhe the Trojans with a 17th-place time of 18:33.64. Smith was 2lst in 18:40.61, Lutz 28th in 19.1328. Frizzell 30th in 19:39.91 and Buist 31st in 19:51.18 Frizzell and Buist were the last of the seven individual regional qualifiers in the race. The TK boys were without junior Camden Reynolds, one ol the team’s top two through out the fall. 6 Rounding out the seven for the TK boys were senior Anthony Kinne in 33rd with * hme of 20:52.77 and f.eshntan Kyle VanHnitsma 36th in 21:37.01 y � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-11-05.pdf 47179c363c5e1b03bfc0451507740b5a PDF Text Text ■year incumbent » city council seat Our fe®rs can make i># strong Editorb'* 1 *on* p*age * 4 Sec Story on Pave ? Local teams in high school football playoffs See Stories on Pages 14 & 15 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 . .................CAR-RT I.OT-C 003 C003 Hastings Pubi.c Library 227 E State St HastngsMI 49058-1954 ANNER Hastings Thursday- No venl_bQ[ 5^2020 VOLUME 167, No. 44 PRICE $1.00- Record-setting voter turnout impresses local clerks j. Ad Thornapple Township voters cast their ballots Tuesday and mark the moment with a high five. (Photo by Scott Harmsen) Barry County voters say ‘no’ to jail tax levy Commissioners^ sheriffdishearteneg by 5,500-vote margin plus 3,837 who dldjft vote on the question at all Greg Chandler Staff Writer “It’s disheartening.” was the reaction of Barr)' County Sheriff Dar Leaf to the results of Tuesday's jail millage proposal, which was defeated by more than 5500 votes. The proposal, which would have allowed the county to issue general obligation bonds of up to $25 million to pay for designing, engineering and building a new county jail and sheriff’s offices, was defeated 18,930­ 13390. The measure was rejected in 23 of the 24 precincts across the county. The only precinct that approved the pro­ posal was the Third Ward in the city of Hastings, which passed the measure by 13 votes. 402-389. In five separate precincts, more than 1,000 voters cast “no” votes, with the highest being Prairieville Township with 1,131. followed by Irving Township with 1,104. Leaf, who was elected to his fifth term as sheriff Tuesday, said he heard quite a bit of support for the jail prior to the election, but also heard from some who were disappointed that the county did not announce a location for the facility in advance. But he and other county officials argued that disclosing a site prior to the vole was a problem. “The problem you have is, when you decide on a site, because it s more likely a property that’s going to be for sale. Leaf said in a telephone interview Wednesday. "Then somebody buys it out from under you. Now you no longer have that site. Or they buy it out and then they want to make money on it by selling it back.” . County board Vice Chairwoman Vivian Conner, R-Orangcville Tvvp., agreed with Leaf that disclosing the potential location for the jail in advance might have added to the cost of the project. “If people know we’re in the market to buy property, then it could be very hard to get a deal,” she said. “It could be hard to get a price that’s not inflated because they know we need property to build a jail on.” “People... misunderstood when we were talking about $25 million. They didn’t understand that we still had to put that [project] out to bid with all these companies that build jails. The requested amount was up to $25 million.” Dar Leaf, Barry County Sheriff Commissioners held several closed-door executive sessions prior to the election to dis­ cuss property acquisition. It was never con­ firmed whether those talks concerned a possi­ ble location for a new jail. But Commissioner Ben Geiger. R-Nashvillc, promised there would be an announcement and no announce­ ment had yet been made. I appreciate and respect the voters giving this proposal a look,” Geiger wrote in a text message Wednesday. “Now that the election js over, it’s time for commissioners to regroun and discuss how to move forward.” Conner said that, if necessary, the county See JAIL, page 2 Services The sun rose on an Election Day jilcs(jay in Barry County that Pr°miscd to set a historical record - number-wise. Weeks ago. Bany C Clerk Pamela Palmer predicted the turnout uou|d 1k. bjg story. /\nd it was. After the polls Md closed, some clerks estimated voter turnout m their townships reached 70 percent or higher. Rutland Township voler turnout reached 77 percent Tuesday, Wising the 73 percent participation in the 201 o presidential election. Clerk Robin Hawthorn*-’ said. Tuesday saw 2.629 out of 3,399 registered voters descend on their township polling places, Hawthorne said, while another 1,323 voters cast absentee ballots. Four years ago. 2.2^9 residents voted out of 3,072 registered voters in the township. and 556 residents voted by absentee. “Because I had a lot fewer absentee ballots — 556 out of 2,249 — in 2016; and then you look at what my numbers are this time and how many absentee ballots — it was almost three times that.” Hawthorne said. “So, 1 was surprised at the amount of people” voting in person. In Hastings Chart? Township, Clerk Anita Mennell estimated a|2 percent voter turnout Tuesday. Of the 2,4?5 voters registered for this election, 1.749 casfballots, Mennell said, and Bremer) Clerk Marcia Grant said after the polls had closed. 'Hie wait time was around 60 to 90 minutes most of the day, Grant said. One resident who was waiting to vote collapsed in the parking lot and was taken away in an ambulance. . At its peak. Grant estimated the line had about 60 people. Fortunately, she said, it was a warm, sunny day. She said she thought the high turnout and number of races on the ballot led to the lines and the wait, not any CO VID­ 19 precautions. She had tried to set up a separate absentee ballot reader, but was unable to get state approval in time. After the polls closed. Grant said 300 absentee ballots still had to be fed through the tabulating machine. Maple Grove Township Clerk Holly Carpenter .said they had a short line of voters Tuesday morning, but people moved through smoothly without any problems. In Assyria Township, some voters were still in line at 8:30 pan., half an hour after the polls had closed. Due to social distancing guidelines, the township hall was only able to fit six booths; about half the number it had in previous years, Clerk Annette Terry said. “The COVID situation really pul a hindrance on things,but people were patient,” she said. . See TURNOUT, page 3 Hastings, sdwfflfe cancel bus service after driver tests positive for COVID Sophie Bates •. Staff Writer Hastings Area School System families received a robo-call Wednesday informing them that all bus services are canceled for the next 14 days because a schoolbus driver has tested positive for COVID-19. “We had one bus driver who tested posi­ tive for CO VID and just thought — out of precaution — we did contact tracing with some of our other bus drivers and they were considered close contacts.” Superintendent Dan Remenap said. “So, just to be safe, we have shut down transportation until Nov. 16." “The two seats directly behind him or her were empty,” Remenap added, “so there were no kids (near) and he or she — the bus driver —- was never infected with kids around.” Remenap said the bus driver tested posi­ tive on Nov. 2, but hadn’t driven the bus for a week. The superintendent said he is confident no students will test positive as a result of this case. “Protocols are in place to prevent adults to spread it to kids so we’re very, very confident this was not transmitted on the bus - or through the bus - or any way through school,” Remenap said. “There’s not an outbreak of CO VID among our bus drivers," he emphasized. “We just have to be very safe.” Remenap said students who are unable to get to school without district transportation will not be reprimanded and asked that their parents work on finding alternative means of transportation. “Ail I ask of parents is that, if they could work on car-pooling with a neighbor, or fam­ ily member, or family friends, or anyone that's all we can really do,” he said. “Also, if kids can’t get to school, we’re not going to hold them accountable for being unexcuscd or anything like that. “We’re just being very' flexible, which is what these times call for.’’ Wednesday's decision to halt bus service for two weeks comes after Hastings High School switched to online classes on Oct. 27 after a staff member tested positive for. COVID-19 and eight other staff members were subsequently quarantined. 'Hie high school is scheduled to return to in-person classes next week. “We had one staff member who tested pos< itivc, right,” Remenap said on Oct. 26. “But' that resulted in eight other staff members being designated close contacts. So it really became a substitute shortage than a COVID19 outbreak. “The school is not considered a transmis­ sion hotspot, by any means." Hastings superintendent to interview for top spot at Thornapple Kellogg Greg Chandler u Cl tvs line both sides of Wing Road outside the Irving trucks, cars and &y*T1.eSday, with vehicles parked in overflow lots on the ip Hall throughout the day d makeshift lot east down Wing Road. (Photo end of the township hall and a seco 779 did so via absentee ballot. In 2016. there were 2.201 registered voters in Hastings Township; of that. 1516 residents — or 69 percent — voted. Of the 2.425 Hastings Township voters registered for 'Tuesday’s election, 1,749 cast ballots — 779 doing so via absentee. "1 had a good three times as many absentee ballots as I’ve ever had before.” Mennell said. In the city of Hastings, out of 5.763 registered voters. 3.809 cast bidlots — a 66 percent turnout. In 2016, voter turnout reached 60 percent as 3.358 ballots were cast from a pool of 5571 registered voters. Phis year, 1.901 of the votes — or almost halt - were cast via absentee as opposed to 565, or 17 percent, in 2016. Orangeville Township Clerk Melody Risner said her township had already exceeded its all-time number of ballots cast at 2:30 p.m. 1 uesday - and the vote was far from over. “The parking lot’s been full all day. The line is extending all the way to the sidewalk. I’ve never seen lines like this, and neither have most of my election workers. “Everyone’s social distancing, everyone’s being very respectful.” she said Tuesday. Barry Township Clerk Deb Knight said she’d never seen anything like Tuesday’s turnout. “It was just unprecedented. People were lined up ail day.” “We’ve had a line outside the door from 6 o’clock this morning,” Castleton Township Staff Writer The superintendent of the Hastings Area School System is one of f0Ur candidates who will interview next week for lhe job Qf p intendent of the 1 homapple Kellogg Schools. Dan Remenap. who took over as Hastings superintendent in July 19> Was selected to interview for the position by the Thomapple Kellogg Board of Educate Mond . h| The board reviewed resumes of 25 applicants before whittling the fidd down to the four candidates who will ^brought in for inler. views next Tuesday and Wednesday Renien»p. who prev‘“«sly .served as illci. pal at Allendale School before coming to Hastings, will be "^rvicwcd at 6 t> m Wednesday. A" ’"“^^iews will take phee m R;«m 10l<> >h«rnapp|e Kellogg Mtddle School. 103' Green Llkc Ro;id jn Middleville. ^Also being interviewed fot ............... ..... . district’s superintendent since 2011. His P»*> educational experience includes serving as curriculum director for Oscoda f rea and principal at South latke High School the Detroit suburb of St. Clatr » • Tim Reeves, superintendent of ths Shelby Public Schools in Oceana County .Rus . been superintendent in Shelby \ । t 2018. He previously served as pnnctpal at Hamilton High School. untoflhe • Dr. James Konrad, supenntc.de nt he Washington Schtxd District County. Pa., abou di,|rj(.fs Pittsburgh. Konrad U |k. has () ls, superintendent since J educational expenet ce i ^cmclrts unil as directorof mstnidn J | k Pubhc teacher evaluauons lor thc H.n) U|e Schools and a hig > " ( lrKl, both Westwood Community School u in the Detroit arest. ,ipl)|i.-ant pool ■"e "C7 to, 'tnued in 1 *•«“ and interest ‘hn ,ilI)v wj,h the tuning Kellogg apple Kellogg board ptesidei A South'Lu Mreve there are quality candidates that may meet our needs and expectations. We look forward to finding out more about the candidates' leader­ ship abilities and what each candidate has to oiler our students, staff and community.” Steigerwald will be interviewed at 6 p.m. Tuesday, followed by Reeves at 7:30. Wednesday, Remenap will be interviewed at 6, with Konrad to follow at 7:30 p.m. The opening occurred in September, when Superintendent Rob Blitchok stunned the community with his retirement announce­ ment. Blitchok had been the district’s super­ intendent since July I. 2018, and informed the school board on Sept. I. of his plan to leave the district and retire, effective Sept. 30, then-board president Anne Hamming said. Next week's interviews will be open to the public, but seating will be limited in order to follow social distancing protocols. A Zoom connection will be available lor those who would like to view the interviews from home, said David Killips, a consultant with the Michigan Leadership Institute who is work­ ing with the school board on the search pro­ �' P«06 2 — Thursday. November 5, 2020 — The HwKnqs Sanner return in Hastings* most *■ ■ ■ go through an election of ■ ■ Sophie Bam ' *i,h J* nn)"re,'son ibsent“ — Staff Writer „\_..nnfln said. voting. et planning Commissioner l'”ilMrfx.n bent out ninc-year incumJKM w.tlid Redman and Shawn Winters for As< W—* w-*4- <S“ Out of 5J63 registered voters in the City of Hastings. 3.809 cast ballots for the 2020 pres­ idential election, yielding a voter turnout of 66 percent, * In the 2016 presidential election, voter turnout was 60 percent, with 3J58 ballots - *S«m"2tvid Tossavn and city council memtirs Al Jarvis. John Resseguic and out of 5.571 registered voters. City Clerk Jane Saurman said she received Donald Bowers were all re elected in uncon,cted races in the First. Second and Third wards respectively. Norman Barlosv had reg­ istered as a write-in candidate for the Third ocHably more absentee voting ballots this year than the city did in 2016. Almost half - 1.901 - of the ballots cast in the 2020 election were absentee as opposed <0 565 absentee votes in 2016, about 17 per­ cent of the vote total. ”Wc have no idea if that was due to COVID or if it’s just because of the new any-reason absentee ballot law. so I mean it’s hard to say In other races in the city, the Hastings Area School System Board of Education Prestdcnt Luke Haywood was re-elected to the board of education. The school board Executive Committee Tn.u._ Commiuw Mlke Kukels and for­ ” president of . . Hastings Munition we" F-4X Bnulley mne, were re-elcvt^ ( > long Hastings .,MWr )xMrd. ^uing out |,fe. nt Hdeh Sclwllenb irgcr. ’^MJay went smoothly. Snunnat, The m^or)t), O1 volfrs wore masks though soemi di jn. wi,s not as strictly followed ilI)(I dJ ; wme j(),ig hues, the weather was nice enott-’h f‘>r volcrs k,ick around and cast .i lints ..T. lheir ballot*. Hierc were lx.ODie waiting: we had a hue al the beginning -^1 wc were fairly steady nght up until noon People were very' patient, they waited their turn and didn‘l rca,,y have any issues? s.iurinan said. “I Hunk any. one that came to V(^ pot to vote, which was the goal. Peop|e were polite and they were in JAIL, continued from page 1 ' could choose to build a new facility on the site >here the current jail *° “ve mo,K>' on ’land acquisition. , „ * “It’s not my decision, but that s a thought, Conner said. "We'« got that property. Ut s Just go ahead. That was what the plan was ' when we did the master facility plan, and we would be in line w ith that " Rutland Township resident Joel Ibbotson expressed a similar sentiment at a board meet­ ing last month, when he criticized the board for not providing more details about the pro­ posal. - “You guys arc sitting on property that you , can construct the jail,” he said at the meeting. Ibbotson also had criticized Geiger for comments he made about Leaf, where Geiger said the sheriff might have hurt the county’s chances of getting the project approved. -. Leaf added said there was a misunderstand­ ing on the financial impact of the project. "People ... misunderstood when we were talking about $25 million,” the sheriff said. “They didn’t understand that we still had to put that (project} out to bid with all these com­ panies that build jails. The requested amount was up to $25 million.” Leaf said it was too early to discuss wheth­ er to bring a new jail proposal back to the board. In the interim, he said the present jail has ongoing maintenance needs. He cited one example. “Our door locks are electronic. The main board that controls it, is what the IT [employ­ ee] calls it, is fried,” the sheriff said. "So , we’re back to using keys |q getJn and out of the buildings; as in the old [days].” ’ •. Conner said she was disappointed to see ; how many people who Uttjacjfput for theelgction did not cast a vote on the jail proposal. Of the 36,157 voters who cast ballots across the county, 3,837 left their jail proposal vote blank. . “I was really hopeful that this would pass because our jail is in bad shape,” Conner said. '-"We were cited once [by the slate] because of The way the prisoners were housed, regarding space. Sheriff Leaf had to write an action plan to address that. They realize we have an aging . jail.” Conner said she expects the jail issue will be a high priority item when a new county board takes office next year. "During our (recent] budget workshop. 1 made the statement, and I’m sticking to it. I’m not voting to increase any non-mandated pro­ grams until we get this jail situation figured out, and [we have} a new jail either in the plans or approved or in the works or a millage is passed,” she said. “I’m not increasing any nonmandated services.” Commissioner Dan Parker, R-Thomapple Township, addressed the possibility that some voters may have been turned off by Leaf’s recent public comments regarding an alleged plot to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. A Recall Whitmer tent is set up to the west of the City of Hastings P° 9 P 10 a.m. Tuesday. Representatives were asked to move since they didn t a t^e mission of the property owner. So, they moved to another location nearby reca|| property owner consented and continued their efforts to get signatures on petition. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) All the records of the vote - including the tape from (he tabulating machines - were delivered, sealed and stored by the county clerk's staff. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) engagement with our community through the use of technology.” In the same interview, McLean said she believes the biggest ciiallenges facing resi­ dents of the city are the downtown, housing, industry and infrastructure“Unfortunately, I don’t believe these con­ cerns are the only challenges our residents face,” McLean said. “We can always work on transparency, community engagement, and helping our citizens feel heard.” City of Hastings Wards The City of Hastings polling places are all under Woodlawn Avenue. “It shouldn’t have been a vote against Dar Leaf ... This jail is not for Dar Leaf. It’s for the community, and the community wants a safe place for the inmates, the corrections officers and the community,” Parker said. "That’s what we were trying to do. "We’ve been accused of kicking the can down the road, so we acted and did the best we could at this time. We probably learned some lessons." Parker said the COVID-19 virus and the financial uncertainty facing the county as a result of the pandemic were contributing fac­ tors in the proposal’s defeat. "It was a combination - all of it. It was like MARINES Birthday Cetoratfon Church on the perfect storm,” he said. "We thought we ’had some momentum going, but then the COVID hit, then the other things hit, too. I think it had something to do with it,” Parker added. Commissioner Jon Smelker. R-Freeport, called the outcome "disappointing, but it was no big surprise,” given the challenges present­ ed by COVID. "We’ll have to look at it and see what we can do better on the next proposal.” he said. County board chairwoman Heather Wing, R-Assyria Twp., was contacted but declined to comment on the vote. the office of Diane Ebaugh, MD, Diana Lightfoot PA and Diana Diemer NP, Tuesday, November 10 • 5 pm to 8pm welcomes Grove Street Cafe Tiffany Jackson, NP 370 Grove Street (M43) ■ Delton, Ml Full Menu • Beet, Wine & Cocktails Birthday Cake will be served Aii Marine and spouses Med! tog Photos and Memorabilia to shrv! 6164904174 Cad Benner 2695674167 Larry Haywrard 269420.7336 Alexltaga 2693302819 Smiley Replogle 269,6232074 Ron Daniels 269569.6220 WIWMfT YOU TO MIMI HBSTM Hlrrwl ===== NEWS 2010 Reapportionment Family Health Ken Cfisso that on Election Day — helped the election run much more smoothly. “Had we not had the Absent Voter Counting Board — 50 percent of the votes coming in were absentee voters — we would have closed out the evening much later. So it really helped,’’ Saurman said. Nine-year incumbent [loses seat on city council Thornapple Valley For more information, please call: good spirits. I think the weather helped.’’ “Most of them wore masks and they were appreciative of the precautions we were tak­ ing.” Saurman said having an Absent Voter Counting Board — which counts all absentee votes so poll workers don’t have to handle Jacquie McLean Sophie Bates Staff Writer The only contested race in the City of Hastings was for a Fourth Ward Council seat for which ninc-year incumbent Willard Redman was challenged by Shawn Winters and Jacquie McLean. McLean won the race by 60 votes. The unofficial total was 399 votes for McLean to Redman’s 339. Winters received 109. “1 just another chapter in my life,” Redman said of his loss. “I appreciate them (the voters] and I appreciate their vote. I thank them very much." McLean, 48. has lived in Hastings her entire life. She previously served as a staff member for the Community Development Department, and for the Barry County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance. She currently is a member of the city’s planning commission. “In addition to my experience and educa­ tional training throughout the years, 1 have volunteered countless hours for all types of local organizations. This has given me an even greater appreciation and understanding for our community strengths, as well as areas where we can do better, dig deeper and reach higher,” Mclxail said in an interview with the Hastings Banner for the October election guide. “If I could make immediate sugges­ tions for change, they would include educa­ tion for our boards, including but not limited to professional development to understand their role and how to fulfill those roles, as well as improving communication and to our practice. Starting January 1,2021 IU05 Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads Sheriff’s office closed to guard against COVID The increase of COVID-19 cases in Barry County is prompting the closure of the Barry County Sheriff’s Office front lobby area until further notice. This closure will impact fingerprinting, sex offender registry, car/deer collision reports, walk-in complaints, inmate visitation, and Freedom of Information Act requests (which can be completed via email or U.S. Postal Service). People arc allowed to deposit money in inmate accounts for bond and commissary, and they may drop off purchase permits in the office drop box. . ; | J [i i ; Veterans Day I ceremony in ■ Hastings Wednesday | Area residents arc invited to observanc­ es of Veterans Day beginning at ll am. Wednesday, Nov. 11. al Veterans Plaza at Tyden Park in Hastings. As they have for more than 100 years, the Honor Guard of Lawrence J. Bauer Post 45 of the American Lxgion will pro­ vide a rifle salute and the play ing of taps in remembrance of the armistice signed on "the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.” ending the hostilities of World War I. An honor guard of Lawrence J. Bauer Post 45 has served the Hastings celebra­ tion of Armistice Day and Veterans Day since the post's founding in 1919. Wednesday, post Commander Stephen Carr and Hastings Mayor David Tossava will offer rematks. These will be followed by the traditional ceremonial salute. In deterenev to current pandemic concerns, social distancing will be practiced, and attendees are encouraged to wear face masks. �vwWWWWWWWWWWP The Hastings Banner — Thursday. November 5. 2020 — Page 3 TURNOUT, continued from page 1 Toi Board M oatw« 1 its Early Wednesday morning, Barry County Probate Judge William Doherty waits in County Clerk Pamela Palmer’s office for the remaining ballots to be delivered. Doherty is charged with seeing that these ballots go directly to the county's board of canvass­ ers when it convenes to canvass the county vote Wednesday afternoon. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) . Al one point, the township’s ballot tabulator overheated, which Terry said has never happened before. Election workers put fans on the machine to help it cool down, and it was able to start accepting ballots again. Cindy Wilshire at Thomapple Township said the process went smoothly, despite constant lines. There were no breaks. Yankee Springs had a voting machine malfunction, which upset some voters. Marge VandcrMcyden, Yankee Springs deputy clerk, said, "The machine froze up, and I went over to the fire station to try to fix it. I called Election Source and the gentleman from Election Source got the machine going again. “Meanwhile, in the back of the bin, there’s an auxiliary' bin that is just a very narrow sleeve where people put their ballots in until the machine gets fixed. Then the Members of the ers which wrapped son voters about tw ry County sheriff Department help watch over pedestrians and control the flow of traffic near the line of vot­ und the (rving Township Hall lawn and across its paved parking lot. It took most of the roughly 1,000 in-per­ ours to vote in Irving Township Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) election inspectors take those ballots out and feed them into the tabulator so they will be counted.” . It took about 30 minutes to fu the problem, she said. ‘ • ... At the polling place m the city of Hastings at the Hastings Baptist Church, 309 E. Woodlawn Ave., a Recall Whitmer” group set up a booth to the west of the polling place Tuesday morning, but they did not have the permission of the property owner, Hastings City Police Chief Jeff Pratt said. ‘ Political booths are not allowed to set up nt or near polling places on Election Day, Pratt said. “1 contacted the property owners to see if they gave permission for such protest to occur and they had not, the chief said. However, a nearby property owner agreed to let them to set up. their booth in that location, so they mo'cd and continued to seek signatures for their petition. Pratt expressed the hope that Election Day would go smoothly for the people of Hastings^ “We ■-t’*nt eveiyw<p. :o get out there and vote/V beJaid Tueschr filming.. fi thewioificia?count incorrect, it appears that a large majority of them did. Lines, like this one in Thornapple Township Tuesday afternoon, are not unusual throughout the county, given the high voter turnout. Irving Township Clerk Sharon Olson delivers the ballots to Barry County Clerk Pamela Palmer at the courthouse early Wednesday morning. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) Thornapple Township signage at a poll­ ing site. (Photo by Scott Harmsen) \ Subject to cit'd t wew andfTUy b«?h-ghof bawd on jxiw-dual credit h * $2,500 App*to r** c..t <[yn HC0 a.ccuf! * requ rd to cbU ■> ** f9f 12 ITK'AV'S wOuH hr.tf 12 ’nertr’y piyawfri of th;$ Qte. Example- a $2.-iUU * • 24 month’>r parr.cnti cl SIC6 35 A w™ 70 Thv^i:ed 52 500k*.vi ut 3 * “ Scv any KB tend*” to ocher yeM t ales asi taws m ib .• 4 , thP City of Hastings are in the Hastings Baptist Church, 309 E. Woodlawn Ave. (Photo by . The four wards &7 w°ecca Pierce) hlghpoint h^hpmnUonv.wMybinurcrn ( MlM-4n-22i5fl �d'<i you see Our fears can make us strong Frosty, foggy morning darkness. If only we could have looked After flirting with light frosts for neatly S'X weoks. temperatures finally low enough to bong a hard frost Saturday morning. Fog rising above a newly frozen field on Solomon Road near the Thomapplu River could be interpreted as a trick or .1 Ineat, depending on ones perspective. (Photo by Jacqueline Muma) Wr’/r Jt'Jic'w/iny this wn A’ a taken In readers or our oaff members that represents Harry County If you have a photo to share, please send it to Newsroom Hasting Banner. 135/ X ,\f4s Hichuvo Mutinys Ml 49058: or email news“• j.tjdyrophi< \ n**'- Pleau include information such as where ami when (hr photo was taken, who took rhe photo and other relevant or anecdotal information. Do you remember? Present flag ■ Banner Nov. 12, 1974 f \ Members of the Freeport VFW and auxiliary present a United Slates flag and a contribution to the Shady Oak Teen Center on the Wing Road of the Wood Schoo! Road Monday. Nov. 4. Participating in the presentation are /from left) Margaret Wilkes, president; Duane Wilkes, junior vice commander; Darlene and Ernie DeGroote of the teen center; George Faunce, senior vice commander; Dorothy Wilkins, community service; and Lucy Karcher, Americanism chairwoman. / Have you K&E Tackle — a homegrown Hastings­ based business for more than 50 years — began as a side project for the late Ken and Evelyn Sprague. Ken Sprague began crafting fishing lures by hand when he wasn't working as a press operator, and his wife, a secretary, went around to local sport shops selling the lures. With hard work and luck, they quit their jobs in the late 1960s and opened K&E Tackle. They had three children — Kathy Howes. Ken Jr. and Jim — all of whom, at one point or another, worked at the family business. Their youngest. Jim Sprague. 57, would eventually lake over the business for his par­ ents; but, despite growing up in that environ­ ment, Jim Sprague never envisioned himself as a small business owner. “J never had ruled it out, but it wasn’t nec­ essarily my goal. Going through college and getting my degree — J had grown up in the family' business, and you kind of want to try' some new things,” Sprague said. He grew up in Hastings and. after graduat­ ing with a bachelor of science degree in packaging design from Michigan State University, moved to Pennsylvania for work. “I found myself working in a cubicle — as so many others do — and it turned out my dad was starting to scale back his role a lit­ tle,” Sprague said. “I thought. ’Well, may Ik* this is time to move on back.’ and. you know. I’d done my life in the cubicle for long enough and it was chance to move back.” Before officially returning. Sprague visit­ ed Hastings for a wedding; there, he met his wife, now a co-owner of K&E Tackle. Jenny (Barnum) Sprague. 53, of Woodland. After they were married in 1989, Jenny Sprague, who has a degree in hospitality management from Lansing Community College, quit her job at Hastings Mutual Insurance Company and began working with Jim at K&E Tackle. In 2005. the couple bought the business from Sprague’s patents. Fifteen years later, Jim and Jenny Sprague still manage K&E lacklc together. “She runs a lot of the day to-day - the financial side and the accounting side, and she deals with a lot ol our supplies and the workers,” Sprague said. *! work mote on the "When you run a small business, you’ve got to Ik* knowledgeable in a lot of different areas, and it’s a challenge, but I sure made the right decision 30 years ago coming back to the business.” Jim and Jenny Spracue have three chil­ dren: Will. 27, who works for ShowSpan, which puts on a variety of fishing and boat­ ing shows; Danny, 24, who works in finance; and Emily, 22, a senior at MSU studying finance. In their free time, Jim and Jenny Sprague like spending time outdoors and traveling. They recently purchased a motor home and plan to travel the country visiting historical sites, national parks and everything in between. For continuing (0 nm the family business and putting Hastings on the map for many anglers, Jim Sprague is this week’s Banner Bright Light. Jim Sprague sales side.” While it started out as a manufacturing company. K&E Tackle now gets most of its products from offshore suppliers. “We used to manufacture all the products here. Now. we mainly source them from other spaces.” Sprague said. "We do a lot of packaging, some assembly, a little bit of manufacturing and then we sell products.” Most of the products are .sold to major retailers like Walmart, Meijer, Bass Pro Shops and C’abela’.s, although they sell to local businesses, as well. Over the years they’ve acquired several other regional man­ ufacturers — Bear Creek Bait Co., Skandin. Ihc Dot Lure and more — which have helped the business expand. While he didn’t plan on taking over the family business ami lacing the many chal­ lenges of business ownership — Sprague said he’s glad he did. * I was fortunate to glow up in a fami­ ly owned business scenario. So. I think if you grow up in that, it’s kind ol a natural progression to end up cither starting your own business or acquiring a business and, in my case. I purchased this business from fam­ ily,” Sprague said. "Overall. J love it.’ First job: Selling night crawlers at a road­ side stand. ® Book Vd rvcommend: "The Millionaire Next Door.” Favorite vacation destination: Fishing in Florida. Greatest song ever written: "Turn the Page by Bob Seger. What I’d tell a high school graduate: °PP«rtunilies are everywhere, especially if yourself with positive people. What I Hhe al) job: । gCl to deal wuh people who |„Vc, they do and have passion for the outdoors 1 he greatest prvXit: Donald J. Tnunp. K-swTe r-—• <jv3jlab te* Bach week. thc n r ^ffles a person who makes ihe r .hine. Do >oU know someone wk "“hould be f"llirc<l because of Volt,** S,\ fun-loving l«r‘ sonahty, |or lh(. wo*. • u> lctl or o,h" mason" 'infonnatio-' to Newsroom, r. . Send .i5ijqtM-43 Highway, ), *> 49058; or email ncw.sfn , . J “^phics-cr"”- No matter how we voted, we were all winners on Election Day. We finally reached an end to the continuous negative advertising, the cynical political news, and the constant battle between the political parlies. The partisan rancor, combined with the pandemic threat, the burning cities, the major fires out West and devastating hurri­ canes in the South has made 2020 an ardu­ ous year. And it has done some long-lasting damage. Now it’s time to direct our think­ ing back to where it can do the most good: ourselves. The stress of today’s world has made many of us, depending on our individual circumstances, feel like victims. Experts are saying thc constant barrage of negativi­ ty, compounded by the social distancing and shellering-in-place measures many of us are taking to protect against the spread of thc coronavirus, is taking a toll on our mental health. A June survey by thc U.S. Centers for Disease Control reported “considerably elevated adverse mental health conditions associated with COVID-19.” More than 40 percent of the 5,470 survey respondents reported increased symptoms of anxiety or depressive disorder, trauma-related symp­ toms, new or increased substance use, and thoughts of suicide. Thc CDC survey reported that the prev­ alence of anxiety or depression symptoms is substantially higher than in 2019. Even more ominous: the CDC and mental health experts say those problems may persist for months, even years. Add to that the feelings of so many fam­ ilies who have lost loved ones to the dis­ ease - or arc unable to even see a family member in person - and we have the defi­ nition of a broken world. We also may never be able to calculate the coronavirus’ stress on our education system or the lost opportunities it has robbed from our young. Whether they’re in school, online or not participating at all, our children are missing their friends, events and all that is part of growing up as an educated student. That impact may last forever as we measure future dropout rates, drug use, mental health disorders and even suicide among our youngest. . ,( According to experts, poor mental health can actually be physically dangerous to general health. Left untreated, mental health issues can lead to depression, anxi­ ety, substance abuse and other disorders that could flare up even later in life. In all the darkness of COVID-19, fires, hurricanes and ugly politics, though, we need to look for the daylight. These days of pain may have something to teach us. "Strength does not come from winning; your struggles develop your strengths, Arnold Schwarzenegger said. “When you go through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is strength.” Going through difficult limes can make us stronger, more determined to win over difficult circumstances, especially when so many uncontrollable situations seem to threaten us every day. The darkness also may be teaching us compassion and empathy tor others. In a world where individual rights are celebrated and responsibilities for the greater good are denigrated, maybe today s turmoil is opening our hearts to the pain of others. . _ . “Be kind, for everyone you meet is light­ ing a battle you know nothing about,” the late comedian Robin Williams observed. His was a life that certainly knew much closely enough to see his pain. Williams’ poignant comment me of a Cherokee Indian s tale of the two wolves. As the story goes, an old Cherokee was teaching his grandson about life. "A fight is going on inside me. he said to the boy. "It is a terrible fight, and it s between two wolves One is evil -he has anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arro­ gance, self-pity, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego. •*The other wolf is good,’ he continued. “He is joy. peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith. The same fight is going on inside you - and inside every other person, too. The grandson thought about it for a min­ ute and then asked his grandfather: Which wolf will win?” His grandfather simply replied, “The one you feed.” Due to the countless challenges we face today, especially during the current corona­ virus outbreak, each of us must do our best not to let the circumstances around us determine our well-being or our mental stability. We all need to take a deep breath, shut out the voices of despair, do our best to stay focused, concentrate on keeping healthy and not letting the threats around us become overwhelming. How we deal with the issues of the day is about freedom of choice. Life-changing decisions we make every day determine which wolf we feed. We’ve all been impact­ ed by the pandemic and other events this year, but thc individual outcome will depend on our ability to make thc right choice for ourselves. “Never say that you can’t do something | or that something seems impossible or that something can’t be done, no matter how discouraging or harrowing it may be.” author Mike Norton said. “Human beings arc limited only by what we allow our­ selves to be limited by: our own minds. We r. are each the masters of our own reality. When we become self-aware of this, abso­ lutely anything in the world is possible.” Are you going to feed the angry wolf, which acts as your inner critic and reminds you of all your faults - the wolf that feeds on depression? j UJ Or are you going to exercise your free- I dom of choice and feed the wolf 6f joy, ’* peace and love, the wolf that gives you a sense of pleasure and fullness of life and leads to that all-important place - peace of mind? What we’ve faced in 2020 and whatever challenge comes next can be overcome by each of us if we’re determined to not let it control us. Take charge of your life and limit thoughts that impact your peace of r mind. We’re going to get through these difficult limes, but how each one of us comes out will determine how we deal with the wolf inside us. (jWrite Us A Letter: Fred Jacobs. CEO, J-Ad Graphics Inc. J The requirements are: H ’ •All letters must be signed by the writer, with u number provided for verification. All that will be nrintln23 d phon.e name and community of residence. We do nntP n?,wd Is he wri,er s letters, and names will be withheld at the IS?, anon.ymous compelling reasons only. editor s discretion for • Letters that contain statements that are libelous a, . be published. "oeious or slanderous will not • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of k d SenSe' be accepted. sms °* businesses will not • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks-...» unless there is a compelling public interest whiJ?Pot be accepted by the editor. lwes’’ wh'ch will be determined • Letters that include attacks of a personal n*, or will be edited heavily. ature will not be published • -Crossfire” letters between the same two ■ limited to one for each writer. people on one issue will be • In an effort to keep opinions varied thara i . person per month. ' ere is a limit of one letter per • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed do bl �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. Hovember 5, 2020 — Page 5 Sophie Bates , Staff Writer President of the i? T^'c,ecIed Lukc Haywood, Board o FJ?CtHaM,n^ Area School System utiv,On-a,ul Mike Nickels, exec- ?Urcr for BraXv >*««<• board beadlo ’ 0,50 *'as e,cctcd 10 >he 4»986 vnt.»c t dcn ShcllcnbaiEcr with Tnli u She,lenb«ger’s 3.009. the .1 ? , ,,ncss ownerwho has lived in Mem o? ycars »’,he P™Foun i »• ^Hastings Education Enrichment £ °»™rec of his childre^ave gradnTnii 01 Hastings, and one is irelhe district. s will replace Trustee RobejuPohl, who not seek re-election to the position and "hose term ends in December. I am very excited to join HASS’ highly c Active board.” Tolles said Wednesday. “I P an to do a lot of listening and learning to gel UP to speed with this exceptional group of people. I have some big shoes to fill. Rob Pohl was a deliberative and fair-minded member of this board and deserves our thanks for his years of service. Obviously, with three seats and four candidates, one of us was not going to fill a seat. However, the willingness to step forward to serve should be applauded and encouraged.” In an interview with the Banner for the October election guide, Tolles said he believes the top three concerns facing the district arc financial stability, educational effectiveness for each student, and staff support and com­ pensation. “1 feel I can help our district navigate Nickels Bradley Tolles through what will undoubtedly be some diffi­ cult financial years ahead because of the COVID-19 pandemic. I am also extremely proud of our school system and the wonderful people that make it successful, and I hope to be a contributing part of that success,” Tolles said. Haywood, a 45-year-old farmer, garnered 6,130 votes. He has served on the Hastings school board for the past six years, first as treasurer and then as president. Currently, he serves on the Prairie Farms Dairy Milk Cooperative Board of Directions and has vol­ unteered as the Hastings FFA Alumni presi­ dent, Barry County Fair Dairy Superintendent, 4-H Leader and State FFA president. Luke Haywood ••1 would like to CO"''“five back to the community a"d.^ncc ofcdu­ cation and make a . J^J'ves of all of our students at Hast!g rea by providing each and every f our students with a quality education.Hayw^ xaid in ;ln interview with the //"«">* flun,|(,r jn dollars as much as possible to improve or maintain school facilities, and draw in poten­ tial students by providing a variety of educa­ tional and career opportunities. Three of Haywood’s children have gradu­ ated from Hastings and two currently attend elementary school in the district. Nickels, a 51-year-old veterinary diagnos­ tic consultant, has served on the board of education for the past four years and three of his children go to school within the district; one has already graduated. Nickels was re-elected with a total of 5,144 votes. “It has been an honor to serve the past four years on the Hastings Board of Education. I want to continue my involvement making October. . w Haywood said he al • provide educa­ tional opportunities to help students pursue whatever career path the) ^choose. His main concerns for the district, Insides the COVID19 pandemic, is the district s financial stabili­ ty, facilities and student enrollment. He suggested the board continue to be fiscally responsible. stretch the sinking-fund positive strides to improve all areas that impact our students, teachers, staff, adminis­ trators and community.” Nickels said in an October interview. Nickels said he makes his decisions as a board member based on three questions; Is it good for the kids? Is it good for the district? Is it good for the community9 His top priority i » to reduce class sizes for kindergartners and first-graders, citing research that smaller class sizes early on allow students more individual attention, participa­ tion, teacher communication and increased test scores. Like Haywood, Nickels’ main concerns for the district are student enrollment and staff retention, the district’s financial standing and improving or maintaining campus facilities. "I am very thankful for the opportunity to continue to serve area students. Hastings Area Schools and the Hastings community,” Nickels said Wednesday. “It is an honor to be elected to serve and work with a group of fantastic dedicated people. I am looking for­ ward to continuing a focus on making positive strides to improve all areas that impact our students, teachers, staff, administrators and community. While issues are always chang­ ing, especially this year, continuing to navi­ gate the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on education, student enrollment and staff retention, maintaining and improving the pos­ itive financial standing of the district and con­ tinued improvements to our facilities to meet the changing needs of students are top priori­ ty.” Michigan voters may decide presidential race Bridge Magazine With Republican President Donald Trump falling behind in Michigan’s ongoing absentee ballot count, his campaign sued the state Wednesday to halt the process, while GOP operatives flooded into Detroit where ballots were being counted. In a manic cap to a rollercoaster election night,Trump took action as it appeared he was headed toward defeat in Michigan, filing a complaint in the Michigan Court of Claims that claimed challengers were denied access, but the suit does not document any specific incidents or identify any jurisdictions by name. The suit also claims Michigan has denied poll challenger access to video surveillance of absentee ballot drop boxes. That’s not man­ dated under state law. however, and cities are only required to use video surveillance on new boxes installed outdoors since Oct. 1. The complaint is part of a flurry of legal action in battleground states as Trump looks to deny Democratic challenger Joe Biden a path to the White House. The president’s campaign on Wednesday also asked a judge to block counting of some mail-in ballots in Pennsylvania and requested a recount in Wisconsin. Michigan law allows for the continual pres­ ence of both poll watchers and poll challeng­ ers in precincts, including absentee counting boards. The latter must be appointed by polit­ ical parties or qualified interest groups and can stand or sit behind ballot processing tables. Numerous media outlets reported both Republican and Democratic poll challengers at polling places and absentee ballot counting boards, including the TCF Center in Detroit where the city’s absentee ballots are being tabulated. "Michigan’s elections have been conducted transparently, with access provided for both political parties and the public, and using a robust system of checks and balances to ensure that all ballots are counted fairly and accurately" Nessel spokesperson Ryan Jarvi said in a statement. Chris Thomas, the slate’s former director of elections who is now helping oversee the Detroit count, joked on Tuesday night about Republicans coming out to watch election workers and Democrats coming out to watch Republicans watch the election workers. “So there’s eyes on die process, he said. “That’s the way it’s set up. It’s not an adver­ sarial position, but people do have their inter­ ests and they’re allowed to speak up and voice their positions on various procedures and Chris Thomas, the state’s former director of elections who is now helping oversee the Detroit count, joked on Tuesday night about Republicans coming out to watch election workers and Democrats coming out to watch Republicans watch the election workers. clerks and poll workers attempt to finish counting a record number of absentee ballots that were legally cast by Michigan voters in the run-up to Election Day. , The suit comes as election clerks and poll workers attempt to finish counting a record number of absentee ballots that were legally cast by Michigan voters in the runup io Election Day. Early results from in-person voting favored Trump. But absentee ballots, which take longer to count, have favored Biden, who was leading Trump by 45.381 votes with 96 percent of the count complete on Wednesday evening. Democratic presidential hopeful Joe Biden was projected to win the state of Michigan, according to The Associated Press al 6 p.m. Wednesday. The former vice president holds a 70,000votc margin over his opponent with nearly all of the votes counted. Michigan went in favor of Trump in 2016 by a razor-thin margin, and was seen as a cru­ cial piece of both candidates’ paths to victory this election. As in 2016, the election could be decided by Michigan. Wisconsin and Pennsylvania. Here’s what was known early Wednesday in Michigan: • Trump was up in early results, and had won 47 of the stale’s 83 counties by Wednesday morning, but those totals were inconclusive because dozens of jurisdictions had yet to finish counting absentee ballots. As of 6:15 aan.. Trump led by Biden by 66387 votes but more than 700,000 ballots had not yet been counted. • Detroit’s count was still very much in process Wednesday morning, with roughly half of all precincts reporting full results. Clerk Janice Winfrey said at least 53 percent of registered voters cast ballots in Michigan’s largest city, rivaling the turnout rate in the 2008 election when Barack Obama was elect­ ed. ^mp’s legal action comes as election • Trump is banking on votes in rural Michigan, _ where he’s rallied supporters in an attempt to build on his performance in 2016. In the 47 fully counted counties he won. Jnyqp grew his margin of victory by a combined 31,870 voles. In Cass County, for Instance, unofficial resdhs showed Trump topping Biden by 7/564 votes and adding 591 Votes to his margin, [n Lake County, which ‘had twice ’ voted for Obama before breaking for Trump in 2016, the president grew’ his margin by 438 vo£s with a 1.65'8-vote win. Trump won Shiawassee County by 7.783 votes. 1,099 more than he had in 2016, when he flipped what had been a two-time Obama county and he again won Bay County, which had voted for Obama twice, but this time grew his margin by 2500 votes. While those aren’t huge gains, they add up. Biden flipped at least one northern Michigan county, topping Trump by 878 votes in Leelanau which the president won by 465 votes in 2016. • Biden is running up the score in Oakland County, the state’s second most populous county that continues to shift liberal. In liberal Royal Oak. for instance, he beat Trump by 12,979 votes. Trump won the traditionally conservative Commerce Township by 3.138 votes, but that was down from his 4560-vote margin in 2016. Biden also took Washtenaw’ County by 100.000 votes. • Saginaw County, which had traditionally voted Democrat until Trump’s I-point win in 2016, flipped back to the Democrat, albeit narrowly: Biden won the county by fewer than 300 votes; Trump had won by 1.073 in 2016. • Other key counties have been slower to count. As of Wednesday morning. Trump was leading Macomb County by about 14 points, up from his 12-point margin in 2016. but only 61 percent of precincts had reported full results with absentee ballots. In Kent County. Trump was leading by nearly 6 points with 78 percent of precincts fully reported. But only 50 percent of precincts had been fully counted in Grand Rapids, the state’s second largest city. • GOP U.S. Rep. Fred Upton of St. Joseph won an 18th term, holding off Democratic challenger Jon Hoadley of Kalamazoo in Michigan’s 6th Congressional District, according to The Associated Press. • West Michigan’s closely watched 3rd Congressional nice remained too close to call, but Republican grocery' scion Peter Meijer was leading Democratic attorney Hillary Scholten with 75 percent of precincts report­ ing. Both candidates live in Grand Rapids. Tire winner will succeed U.S. Rep. Justin Amash. who left the GOP in 2019 and did not seek re-election. • The Michigan Supreme Court’s conserva­ tive majority hangs in the balance, with the race for an open seat too close to call. Chief Justice Bridget McCormack, a Democratic nominee and the only incumbent on the non-partisan portion of the ballot, appeared headed toward easy re-election as the top vote-getter in many Democratic and Republican leaning counties. But the nice to replace retiring Justice Stephen Markman, a GOP nominee, had not yet been settled by Wednesday morning. Republican nominees currently have a 4-3 edge. In Michigan’s first presidential election since voters approved sweeping new access rules, a vote marked by fears over continued C0V1D-19 spread, more than 3.2 million res­ idents cast their ballots early by absentee bal­ lot, crushing the record 1.6 million set in the August primary. All told, state officials predicted Michigan was on pace for a turnout of more than 5 mil­ lion voters, which would rival and possibly exceed the record of 5,039,080 in the 2008 election. Trump made Michigan a focal point of his re-election strategy, visiting the Great Lakes state four times in the last four days of the general election campaign and capping his campaign Monday night in Grand Rapids. Working to boost rural turnout.Trump cam­ paigned in parts of Michigan that presidential candidates typically ignore, drawing huge crowds to rallies in areas like Saginaw County, Devoted to thc Interests of Barry County Since 1856 Hastings The Hastings Banner Denoted to the Interests of Barry County since 1856 Puty^ey. . Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. M M 43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 1351 releases: nows@i-adgraphics.com - Advertising-ads@i-adgraphics com News and press Frederic Jacobs Publisher & Ctu Hank Schooling CFO • ses Sophie Bate5 Greg Chandler Luke Froncheck Taylor Owens ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT ads accepted Mcnda/ th’ougn Friday fl;30a.m !o500pm. Scott Ommen Mike Gilmore Ty Greenfield Jennie Yonker Subscription Rotes: $52 per year in Barry County $60 per year in adjoining counties $65 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER. Swd add<v$i changes to. P.O. Bo* 16B Matings, M149C5S0188 Seco'-.d Ciass Pcctago Paid at Htothgs. Ml 49056 Muskegon and Traverse City. ; In his speeches here, the president touted • the state’s pre-pandemic economy, recent auto ■ industry investments and revised trade deals ’ that he had railed on in 2016 in his winning pitch to blue-collar voters. But the president faced blowback for down­ playing COVID-19 amid a Michigan surge. ’ and experts questioned his repealed attacks on ' Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, whose . job approval ratings have consistently out- ‘ paced his own among statewide voters. The Biden campaign was banking on a strong showing in Michigan and gave the state plenty of attention as well. . ! Obama joined Biden for drive-in rallies in ‘ Detroit and Flint on Saturday as the campaign worked to boost turnout in the African- • American majority Democratic strongholds. Vice presidential nominee Kamala Hams spent part of Election Day in metro Detroit, including Oakland County. Matt Walters. 64, of Lapeer County, and Beth Serafino, 57, of Macomb County, say they both voted for Trump in 2016. Tin’s year, they voted for Biden. “We gave him four years and he wrecked , the place,” Walters said. “It’s like you hire a babysitter for four years and you come home “ and they’ve wrecked the place. “He made promises he didn’t keep.” Other Trump supporters were unwavering in their support. “1 think he’s done really great things,” Gary Walker, 53, of Fenton Township. "Some peo­ ple don’t think so. My family doesn’t think so... In my bag, 1 have a copy of the • Constitution, if we don’t have those rights that are listed in there, there’s nothing else left to fight for." Walker said he was the first in line to vote . at 6 a.m. at Lake Fenton High School on Nov. 3, where the township’s six polling places were consolidated for the presidential elec­ tion. Once he finished voting. Walker went home, changed his clothes, and came back with a Trump sign and a megaphone. He stood on top of his pickup truck for the rest of the day, holding his sign, playing music from his car speaker and yelling phrases like “God . bless America” into the megaphone. "1 think 1 was more confident about frump's ability to win in 2016,” Walker said. “But I’m more enthusiastic about him now.” DANNER Arc# ^°cntions to purc/iose tfie Hastings Bannei! One Stop Shop (M43 North) Superette ( Famfy Fate Tom’s Market Hasting s Johnny $ 66) Mlddlefijlle: Woodland; Speedway Mldik’vfe Maiketpbce Greg’s Get It-N Go Middhi^e Johnny’s Woodhnd Express Gur Lake: Sam’s Gourmet luce- The Genera! Store Marathon PineJMe; Cloverdale: Ctedak Gtttvra! BrwisCWirCrctkGrWv Trading uttki Country Stw Q.eltpm Mu Tharnvacy C Store Cad s family foe ftionAW’ Mega Bev Hastings Phannacy Doster Country Store PHbps 66 Gas Sabjn ftairievilk? Fast Stop ; Family Fare Ga> Qrpn^yjlje: QpjrHnj; Orangeville Fast Stop Goldsuvrth’yS Dowding Genial Store Walgreens Prairieville: L&A 0aftffld; BanfieUGewa! Sjcmj IcUkfOdfssfli bkeO-Mw ' Lake Odessa Johnny's Giris Shelby Tovn & Country �6 -- Thursday November 5, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Thomas Charles Szudzik David Norman Berry Paul E. Schiedel David Normtn Berry. age 77 <R al his home on frith). Oct. 30» David wa> bom on February II. 1943 in Baltic Creek to Marshall and Vera (Loveland) Berry. A veteran. David proudly served his country in the Lnited Stales Armv. David worked for the City of Battle Creek Water Works Division as an electrician for over 40 years. He was a member of Graccspring Bible Cluircii where he was involved in various men’s cluhs. He was a part of many organizations through the years including The JC’s. Toast Masters. Dale Camagie, Parents without Partners. Boy Scouts, Interaction, the American Legion, United Way. Bid for Bachelor charily fundraising events, and was a member of the over 10 Gallon Club for the American Red Cross for blood donations. David is survived by his loving children. Michael (Becky) Berry. Craig Leatherman, Shannon (Mark) Bill. Lynda Siebel. Brad (Heidi) Leatherman; grandchildren. Breanna Amaro. Brittany Leatherman, Brooke Leatherman. Chelsea (Brian) Crouse. Anthony (Destiny) Siebel, Kenny Siebel, Nolan Adams, Aiden Adams; great grandchildren. Natalie Amaro. Jackson Amaro. Aveiy Crouse: sister. Gwen Aired: sister-in-law. Greta Nesseth; niece. Debra Wotxlstock; nephews. Douglas Berry, Brian Berry. David Berry. Stephen Berry. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Vicki Leatherman-Berry: and brother. Ronald L. Berry. ;.A memorial service for David will be held oil May 22. 2021 at I p.m. at Gracespring Bible Church. Interment Woodlawn Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to V.FW Post 422 in Delton. ; Please visit www.winiamsgoresfuner.il. com to view bavid’s online guestbook or to Itfav e a condolence message for his family. ' Tliomas Charles Szudzik. age 84, of Hastings, passed away on October 23,2020. Thomas was bom on November 26, 1935 in Grand Rapids, the son of Charles and leda (Powers) Szudzik. He was a 1954 graduate of Central High School in Grand Rapids. Thomas served in the UJS. Navy, stationed in Korea. On September 25.2004 he married F.ddis Mae Hayes. He retired from Capital Engineering and worked for Die Cad Group until 2004? Thomas was a member of St. Rose of Lima Parish in Hastings. He enjoyed golf and fishing on Gun Lake. He enjoyed traveling, especially out west, down south and through northern Michigan. Thomas liked going to the casinos, bowling, and spending time with his family. Thomas was preceded in death by his parents. Charles and Leda Szudzik. and his sisters, Beth and Charlene. He is survived by his wife, Eddis (Hayes) Szudzik of Hastings: step-children. Shelley Hendrick (Casey Wolfe), Joseph (Toni) Hendrick. Laura (James) Pickett, all from Hastings: seven grandchildren, Sara Hendricks. Steven Wolfe. Taylor Pickett. Madison McMasters. Makayla Pickett. Ryan Hendrick. Kara Hendrick, all from Hastings; three great-grandchildren, Natilee Shay of Atlanta. GA, Malea and Malayna Johnson of Caledonia; niece, Kathy Weed of White Cloud and great-nephew, Gordon Deloof of Grand Rapids, nephew. David Bockheim of Rockford, and other nieces and nephews. Visitation was held Monday , Nov. 2.2020 at Girrbach Funeral Home. 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, with a prayer service that followed. Military honors provided by the American Legion Post 45 of Hastings. In lieu of Bowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Bose of Lima Parish. 805 S. Jefferson Avenue. Hastings. Ml.49058. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. ginbachfuneralhome.net. Worship Together ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... H USTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH * * • , . • ! ’ rAn Expression Of Who Jesus Is To T he World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy . P.O Box 8. Hastings. Telephone 269-945­ 9121. Email h^tjmc&gmaiL coin. Website wwUuhMlings IkcniCllM.xJiiLliMn- Pastor Brian Teed, Student .Ministries Director, Emma Miller. Worship Director. Martha Stoetze!. Sunday Morning Worship: 9;<m anil IO:?0 am. beginning June 21 until further notice. Doe to the current health criris, our nursery is temporarily dosed and we are temporarily suspending all Children’s ministries. Our ’ church sanctuary is ♦.«•< up for social distancing. We do not require wearing masks, but do cncouinge it. especially vhile walking through the building before and after services. Please keep your family together during ' the worship service. We arc a multi-generational church family and underttand that while this uiulcl mean outbursts or potty­ breaks. urart not inconvenienced by your little one. Tn an effort to • help you. we arc providing weekly activity bags fur each child. These bars are Io t>e taken home or disposed of after each ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. 269 945-4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip. Mass 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Mass 8 and 11 a m. Sunday. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 301 E. State Rd.. P.O. Box 273, Hastings. MI 49058. Pastor Scou Price.' Phone: 269-948-0900. Website: www.lifegatecc.com. Sunday Worship 10 a m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) PLEAS ANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road. Dowling. Ml 49050. Pastor. Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 10 a ni. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 7025 Milo Rd., PO. Box 765, (comer of Milo Rd. & S. M-43), Delton, Ml 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool. (517 ) 204-9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to l!:3Uain, Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 to 7:30 pm. 328 N. Jefferson Street Worship 10 am. Nursery provided Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616 6908609. ■uw. 7mr infonuation on worship service is provided by The Hastings Hanner, the churches and these local businesses: isfafoo Hm 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 Paul E. Schiedel, age 66 of Hustings, went home to be with the Lord on October 30, 2020. Paul was born on October 9, 1954 in North Kingstown, Rhode Island, the son of Marvin and Patty Schiedel- Paul was a 1973 graduate of Manin High School. On August 26. 1977. Paul married Bonnie Lynema, and they enjoyed 43 years together. He retired in 2015 from the United States Postal Service after 32 years as a rural letter carrier. Paul was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Hastings, serving as a trustee. He enjoyed working in his yard and tending to his flower gardens. He loved being outside, swimming with his granddaughters, golfing with his son and walking with loved ones. He enjoyed cooking for friends and family and hosting gatherings, traveling around northern Michigan, and loved music. Paul was passionate about his work and took pride in the sendee he provided to those along his mail route. Paul was preceded in death by his father, Marvin Schiedel. He is survived by his mother. Patty Schiedel of Martin; wife. Bonnie (Lynema) Schiedel of Hastings; daughter, Amy (Jonathan) Kalkrnan of Wayland; son. Eric (Carey) Schiedel. of Galesburg; granddaughters. Sophia* Emily and Megan Kalkman; brother. David (Char)^c^^del of Kalamazoo; sister-^.-lrfc, Janice .’(Elmer) Derks of Jenison/several nieces and nephews. \ . Visitation w ill be held on Saturday. Nov. 7. 2020 from 10 a.m. to Noon with a sen ice. at Noon at First Presbyterian Church. 405 M-37. Hastings. Ml 49058. luncheon will follow. The sendee will be livestreamed and can be watched from at www.facebook.conV GirrbachFuderalHome. You do»NOT need a Facebook Account to view the service. Memorial contributions can be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Hastings. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. James “Jim” Leon Jaynes, age 86. of Hastings, passed away on October 28. 2020. James was born in Grand Rapids, on January 7, 1934, the son of James M. and Faye M. (Fleury) Jaynes. Jim attended Hastings Area Sch<x>Is. graduating in 1952. He attended Western Michigan College of Education, graduating in 1954 with a business degree. Jim served in the United States Army from 1955 - 1957. On August 4. 1962. Jim married Frieda Arens, and they enjoyed 58 years together. Jim enjoy ed 36 years at deer camp in Lake City with his hunting crew; Ken. Norm, John. Jim and Brad. He also liked fishing, bowling, golf, snowmobiling. mushroom hunting, and cutting wood. He was a member of the Elks and Moose Lodge since 1965. Jim also loved spending lime with his family. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Faye (Fleury) Jaynes; his sister. Nancy L. Robinson, and brother-in-law , John Robinson. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Frieda (Arens) Jaynes; children. Deborah Jaynes-Dyke. Jacquelyn (Brad) JaynesTolles. lutura Jaynes and step-daughter. Julie (Ron) Corrigan Cizek; eight grandchildren. Thomas and Andrew Dyke, Morgan. Elliza. Braden and Kearan Tolles, Alexander and Anna Cizek. and one great-granddaughter, Sophia Dyke. I The family would like to thank the caring staff at Spectrum Health Pennock Hospital f<$r their compassion and exceptional care as well as all the caring people who have supported Jim and Frieda over the years with their time, cards, and prayers. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Rose of Lima Mass Intentions or a charity of one’s choice. Visitation was held Sunday, Nov. 1. 2020 with a funeral service at Girrbach Funeral Home. 328 S Broadway. Hastings. MI 49058. Burial was held Monday. Nov. 2. 2020 at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. 1051 W. Green St; Hastings. Ml. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. giirbachfunenilhome.net. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 309 I-.. Woodlawn. Hastings. Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. Sunday Sen ices: 9.15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Wonhip Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m ; Young Adults 6-9 p in. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30-8 p.m.. Kids 4 Truth (Children Kindergartcn-5lh Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8001 tor information. 4887 Coats Grow Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel-chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Won-hip lime 10*30 a m. Youth activities: call for information. Dwight Ernest HHchcock^^ James Leon Jaynes 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 Duane William Shriber Duane William Shriber, age 84. of Hastings, passed away peacefully at home on October 30,2020. Duane was bom on January 3, 1936 in Hastings in the car on railroad tracks. That was the .start of him liking trains. Duane is llie son of William and Susie (Gurd) .Shriber. He graduated from Hastings High School in 1954, running track all four years, winning several awards. Duane served in the US Army from 1954-1958. He married Janet Ann Hubbell on JUnc 20. 1959. together they celebrated 59 ycars un(j| her passing on December 17. 2018. Duane worked at EW Bliss and Bradford White, retiring after 34 years. Duane loved and worshipped the Lonl. He was a member of Voice of Revival Church, serving as Board of Director for 20 years. Duane enjoyed collecting trains, go>ng to train 4hows fishing, traveling, wHh Slym0ViCS, andSan,e "ig"' *" IU’"’e /iz I)uaae is survived by sons, Michael D l y)v?hribcr antl Brian Shriber; daughter, Dtbra Shriber and her fiance, Shawn Root: grandchildren, (Chad) Henry. Levi ;Da»[e Ie) Shriber ;^d Jaden Parker: groatgraiukhildien, Pajs| fo|e. Sophie. C hloe, aU of sister. Ethelyn ! |ktn brnlheMn-lavv. * Ken (Carolyn) Hntilx-ll: sister-inj Carolyn Timm and many special nieces nephews and cousins. $ Dwight Ernest Hitchcock, age 98, of Battle Creek, passed away peacefully on November 2,2020. Dwight was born on November 26, 1<1 in St. Joseph County, the son of Benjamin “Frank” and Ethel (Messier) Hitchcock. Dwight was a 1940 Graduate of Hickory' Corners Kellogg High School, and he attended Western Michigan University. On August 10. 1942, Dwight married Nonna Jean Butler. That same year, he began working for Lockheed Aircraft Corporation in Dallas. TX and later in Burbank. CA. He served in the US .Army Air Force from 1943 to 1946, Following an honorable dischai^c at war's end, Dwight worked his entire carver as a licensed landscape architect for Light’s Garden Center and Landscape Nursery, retiring in 1986. Dwight was a member of the Michigan . Association of Nurserymen. American Association of Nurserymen, and Michigan Association of Landscape Architects. He was the chairman for the Hope Township . Zoning Board, and the first president of the Gull Lake Board of Education. Dwight enjoyed fishing, tennis, golf, bicycling, camping, and spending time outdoors. Dwight and Norma lived in the Gull Lake area for 18 years, the Delton area for 21 years, and the Bellevue area for 15 years. Their last years together were spent in Hastings and Heritage Assisted Living in Battle Creek. For many years after retiring, Dwight and Nonna spent winter months in Florida and summer months at their cottage in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. ' Dwight was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin Franklin Harrison and Ethel Mae (Messier) Hitchcock, and his wife. Norma Jean Hitchcock. Dwight is survived by his sons, Dwight Phillip Hitchcock, Paul Gilbert Hitchcock. Peter Franklin Hitchcock, daughter. Naomi Jane Ogden, daughters-in-law. Margaret Hitchcock. Shirley Hitchcock and Karla Hitchcock; son-in-law. Robert Ogden Jr.; six grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Respecting Dwight’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A graveside service for Dwight and Norma will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of Bowers, plant a living concolor fir or white pine at the First Presbyterian Church of Hastings. Arrangements are by Girrbach Funeral Home. Hastings. Ml To leave an online condolence, visit www.girrbachfuneralhome. net. Harold John Tasker, Jr. We know you are no longer suffering. Visitation will be held from II a.m. to Noon on Saturday. Nov. 7, 2020 at the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Funeral Services will follow beginning at Noon. James McKelvey, officiating Interment will take place at Rutland Township Cemetery with Military honors provided by Post 45 American Legion of Hastings Memorial contributions can be made to Elara Caring Hospice, 630 Kenmoor Avenue: Grand Rapids. Ml -19546. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. 1 fastings. Ml. To leave an online condolence, visit www'.girrbaehfuneralhonie net. Harold John Tasker Jr., age 70. of Midland, passed away on October 29, 2020 al .MidMichigan Medical Center - Midland. John was bom on June 6, 1950 in Hastings, the son of Harold John Sr. and Bernice (Adams) Tasker. John grew up on the family farm on Kingsbury Road where he enjoyed riding his puny. John attended Delton Kellogg High School and was a 1968 graduate of Robert E. Lee High School in Staunton. VA. He worked for Fisher Auto Parts while he was going to school. John was a truck driver for many years and also worked on the Grand Tronk Railroad John was a selfless person who would do anything for you. He loved all animals, especially bis faithful dogs. John is survived by his sister, Dawn Smith; a niece; several nephews; and several grand nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by his parents; son, Benjamin Tasker; and brothers: Duane Fisher and Arthur ’’Bobo” Fisher. Burial with military' honors will lake place at Fort Custer National Cemetery in the spring of 2021. Please visit 'vwvv.williainsgorcsfunera!. com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for John’s family. Traditional anil (.'rvnution Services unices ITe Planning Services large Parking Un - H.nulic;i ‘ aP Accessible Serving AU Faiths • Pr- arrangcjneiu Transfers Accepted • • • • **■£*!- *£« mother and parcnts. 'vlu . j ,ssje Hubbell; l>w(h<.r^n:,n'v-^hl and Iexa.s Ti,nnl. ,, likc hi> kids 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI -19058 269-9 15-3252 • www .glrrbiichfuncralhorov.net '■"‘•’Wbhn. ile'4'^|)<1n<n.rl>e.>11s. l>.ik Billingsley Owner/Manager Family Owned and Operated Serving Histiijyv fkirr) x -....... *■ j Ray Girrl»acti Owner l.nivriu^ < ummimitivs for so vu.trs �....... ■r fl look hack at the stories and columns on local history In the Hastings Banner turning BACK THE PAGES Barry County in the SpanishAmerican War, part II th, *Oi«h from Detroit to th ■ n)lh We left Denod u/n Mobile. Ala-way ' “Wagner" sleepers all "t the l,a<l fine acconunodalionSi .j wouitj friers were reeeieal along " „„/<• v*"'filled JO freight cars. E',r-\ rfJ lit . 'hat could afford a band K,d, music. . . y\’dbash nni. W'e came over the ,/road to East St. Louis. and ' j /Z1 ’&• and Ohio Railroad. Be <n)S rrivedf '^ugh eight different states and ^''hile at night. H? pulled up to <■« morning and were met . :,t p made l- ^lers. One old soldier ll'fi^n they "•‘"k of rhe "Yanks" in IK6J "" Ot/"'"i a great Stayed'It.f^^^'^dunti! June 4th and then ca o Ta,npa y there, we frill""> <>« boiling hot sun. but M frIhers. we xtuck to the ‘Old Flan- V; her. Alherl Dillenback. had s Union Army during the C‘f ^mgaJfrn in the throat at Chic J The evening °f^u . r“,, 11 "c left, we rode for miles along fof Mexico. The moon was shining MS e*ater. and the boys all sang "Oil- 'J> khl s fair tonight along the Wabash. Oud Pensacola at 12:15. and the ladies of the Clly. whale i9th lunch and liot coffee After wr had g<R^ . a hundred miles and crossed the ' "*• He found a wreck and had to bat k u andKo guile a ways around, but frilly go Tampa. The first thing to do was to get P ace to sleep, and as I have often heard my father ■•«;. used Mother Earth for a pillow and the sky for a Albert Woodmansee of Dowling poses for a photo at Camp Chickamauga, Ga., in 1898, standing in front of his tent, dressed in the uniform of the day. The following is the second of a six-part series compiled by the late Joyce Weinbrecht and published in the Banner from mid-August to early October 1998. The United States declared war on Spain April 25, 1898, for intervention in Cuba. Emotions in both Spain and the U.S. ran high. There were riots in Barcelona against Americans, and in the U.S., people thought the Spanish colony should be subdued. Sen. Henry Cabot Lodge warned President William McKinley that “if the Republican party does nothing about Cuba, we shall go down to the greatest defeat ever known. American citizens had more than just a human interest in Cuba and Cubans. I hey had invested more than $50 million in the sugar plantations, iron mines and tobacco plantations of Cuba. President McKinley’s call to arms was answered by tens of thousands. Trainloads of soldiers rolled into the southland, past flag­ waving citizens along the way. Enlistment fever spiked all over the nation, and Barry County was no different. Volunteers came from the city of Hastings and from all of the Villages and all townships. Many Bany County men were mustered in to the 31st. 32nd. 33rd. 34th and 35th regiments of the Michigan National Guard. The U S Navy was in good fighting form. The oowerful U.S. Asiatic Squadron was - sX"Its? ,rM) Bounds, 63 years old and with a nearly 30° p< was given command of severe case of8 jn lg35 ncar Galesburg, the undertaking. . lieutenant Shafter had ‘"X "eral in the Civil War. colonel and brig J|c ))ad |n;ijc a c^eronhe'army. and by 1897. was a •t5^S5«SS«: St hh men. । militias presented an The . na,.,1O" ljollloriheanny.TheNati0na interesting s.tuatn j/ed for social and Guard units had tee * f()r s()|dler)ng. political purports, during drills ■^'"e'7Xm^^bU,theyWCr,! and execute tne not trained for service in Cuban jungles and mounts. They had little equipment. Officers in the units were elected and demoted by the men in the units. The National Guard was not under the War Department, but under their respective states, and some viewed the service under the War Department as service under compulsion. 'fhe War Department lacked most every type of supplies, including smokeless powder. lite camps were not well planned or well set up and proved unhealthy. With poor sanitation and the southern heat, typhoid soon broke out. A measles epidemic went through the encampments. Spring rains turned the tent sites into muddy bogs. Scarlet fever, pneumonia and bronchitis made hundreds very ill. Dysentery spread through the camps. The medical corps was disorganized and understaffed and simply couldn’t keep up with the onslaught of disease. Many young volunteers never got closer to battle than the mud hold training camps where they died from disease. The food was very poor. The soldiers called the meat “embalmed beef.” Eventually, however, order was achieved and training schedules were made, and the regular Army, noncommissioned officers gave the new recruits some training and even some rifle practice. Back on the homefront, newspapers were reporting every detail and made up a few about the war. Patriotism was at a high level and many demonstrations were held. Parades’ cartoons and poetry flourished. Some of the volunteers from Woodland were James. F. France, S.E. Grand, Frank M Smith and Roy D. Dillenback. The latter was the son of Albert W. and Sarah Galloway Dillenback, bom Nov. 19 1874. Following his service in the Spanish-’ American War, he married Amanda Luuke Sept. 4. 1899. He was a barber by trade but also worked as a prison guard in the 1920s. He had spent some time in the regular Army prior to the call for men in 1898 and was a member of die 18 th Infantry’s Company B. Dillenback served in the unit for nearly three years before heading south to join the cl forts against Cuba. I Je wrote letter to the Woodland News from a camp in Tampa Heights, Fla., describing his trip to the south. Editor of the News: A\ 1 am an the last point of the United Slates, I will give you a little sketch of my trip Tho Hastinga Banner — Thursday, November 5, 2020 — Page 7 covering." . IVe got up in the morning at our usual hour and received our usual rations of hard tack and corned beef. But we chewed it down and took it all in good part, for I imagine if we get hard tack where we are going, we wm be thankfid. . I don't want anyone to think I am grumbling, for I am just as happy as if / pulling my feet under Albert’s table three times a day and happy to think that Woodland has got some men that are willing to go to their country’s call and know how to go at it. / am well and never felt better in my life. I haven’t been sick a day since Nov. 14,1897. / was out fishing the other night about two miles from camp and we speared a shark that was nine feet, eight inches long, but the worst of it all, my hunk mate got his hand into its mouth and got bitten. He also captured four alligators, and they were not so very' small, either. Well. Michigan can be proud of one thing and that is she has the best behaved soldiers that have come south. Everybody speaks well of the Michigan boys. They can talk about the ’sunny south’ all they like, but give me ''Michigan, My Michigan." I expect to see wbfsy than this before this war is over, unless tie Spaniards show the white flag, and theyfiad better, while there are enough of them to do it, for when Uncle Sam turns his blue coats loose, someone is going to drop. ■ Some of the btys are getting anxious to go, but there is no use in getting in a hurry. I want to live as long ds lean. But people should not worry, the soldiers are all right. It may seem hard to some of the boys, but they will get used to it in time. I would advise any man going in to join the regulars, for they fare better than the volunteers do, and the officers know just how to do. Of course, they are very strict, but so much the better. I will close my letter by saying 1 like the Army just that well that in five months more, if I am alive, I shall enlist for three more years. Anyone wishing more information can get it by writing to me. Respectfully, . Roy D. Dillenback. Co. B, 19th Inft., US. Political cartoons like this were common in 1898 newspapers. wrWsp^in Reliable war News IN THE GREAT NATIONAL FAMILY N&WSfflF&R Furnished hu Special Correspondents ax the Iront. Tl)6 NEW-YORK ViEEMY TRIBUNE. This advertisement in the New York Weekly Tribune also appeared in the June 2, 1898, Hastings Banner, as well as dozens of other papers across the country. difficult one that lasted until 1902 and was the beginning of the U.S. getting a taste of being a colonial power. By the Treaty of Paris, signed Dec. 10, 1898, the Spanish had given the Philippine Islands to the U.S. in return for $20 million. However, the Filipinos continued the warfare, this time against the Americans. In all, the war, and the occupation of the Philippines, extended the Spanish-American War until 1902, with incidents lasting into 1904. This war and the need to move ships quickly from one side of the world to the other emphasized the need for a waterway between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans that didn’t require traveling clear around South America. The Panama Canal resulted from this need. However, this is beside the topic of this column, which is really concerned with Barry County men in the Spanish-American War against Spain in Cuba. More about those soldiers next. Sources for this series include research by the late Harland and Nyla Nye; Turning Point for America, Irving Wersteine; VFW. September 1998: Hastings Banner archives, 1898 and 1914; Nashville News 1898; New Standard Encyclopedia 1958; The World Book, 1950; Angels of the Battlefield, the Life of Clara Barton, Harper and Brothers. New York, 1956; Michigan Public Acts 1901, 223. Army While the United States Armed Forces was preparing to invade Cuba, another conflict was going on between Spain and the Philippines. May I, 1898, brought the Battle of Manila Bay, when Spain’s fleet near die Philippines was destroyed, and a blockade was established on the port of Santiago, Cuba. The American people and even the American government officials knew very little about the Philippine Islands. Here, too, the Spanish authorities had exploited the native people. Filipinos worked in miserable conditions as laborers, working in unsanitary factories making cigars at practically no wage. Spanish colonists felt that everything in the islands, particularly in Manila, belonged to Spain, and the native people did not count. In 1896, revolt broke out, one of many such revolts against Spain over many years. Emilio Aguinaldo was the leader of the 1896 revolt, leading in guerrilla attacks against the Spanish. When the USS Maine explode in Havana Harbor in mid-February, it called attention to the revolt in the Philippics, which was really at a stalemate. The effort to subdue lhe Spanish in islands look longer than the Cuba cffort d;d This was partly dueJ the attilljdc of |he American State Depart en which, whcn jt was pointed out that me (j $ nir-ndv siding with Cubans fighting ag.linsi "Cuba is on our diiorsrep, bu, of the Philippines? President McKinley admi». . . . couldn’t tell within 500 nii 'hat he Philippine Islands wet, |,L*h'rc ,h‘ furthermore, said he didn t e > and no concern of the United St<(l,s cy "ere of The story of the Ph^‘Ppincs ; , b a long and Obitua’cy Dennis (Mike) Michael Thmpson Mike Thompson, age 74. passed away on Wednesday. Oct. 28. 2020 at Spectrum Health Hospital in Grand Rapids. Mike was bom November 4. 1945 in Kennan, WI. He was preceded in death by his wife. Bette, in January 2010, his parents (1964 and 2011), his brothers (Johannes - 1934. Ron 2003, Art - 2011), along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents. Mike graduated from Hastings High School in 1963. He worked at Hastings Manufacturing Company from March 1965 until his retirement in March 2002. Mike was drafted in December 1965. serving as a cook. He obtained the rank SP/5-E-5. While in Germany, he took leave with two buddies Brandon). and went to Spain. While there, they went o Mike is survived by his children and bullfights, among other things. grandchildren, brothers Andy and Randy, and Mike married Bette Jean O tonneT m sister Vickie. February 1991. Between the two.of^11 • Immediate family will gather to honor they had four children: MicheUe iM-A) Mike. In lieu of cards or flowers, donations can Schwennesen (and their vi( 'Mji;hae| (AngJm) WsonK(Jn ,hK>lenlW;md be made to the American Cancer Society, donate3xancer.org, IK) Box 22478. Oklahoma City. OK 73123. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. Justin and Tta). ano >()n and To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuncralhome.net. children Anthony. Dalton, �Michigan softens restaurant ru*®® v.n requiring customer info during C ... ......... . ___________________________________________ S U, Elaine (unlock • One lament we hear in the tail is from people who wish their leaves would fall in a shorter time than they currently do. One can •rake and then rake some more and the task /continues until the hist leaf falls. One tree that cooperates and has al) its leaves fall overnight is the ginkgo ot which there are a few specimens in town. There is one on Johnson Street and newer, late trees ot this variety on the drive at Lake Manor and' or Emerson Manor. One night this week, al! the leaves fell overnight so the ground was covered with a blanket of beautiful yellow * kaves This tree remains unchanged since pre-historic lime as evidenced by fossil remains. Ute leaf is the only one in existence whose vein system comes from the stem in a fan shape w ith no branching as one finds in an elm or a maple leaf. Sunday. Centra! United Methodist Church celebrated All Saints Day with remembrance of its members who have departed in the last veai since the first Sunday of November 2019. Those remembered this year were Dale Mossburg. Lloyd Corston Jr., dale Brock. Phylis Armstrong. Helen Miller. Joanne McDaniels, Julie Nelson, and Robert Durkee. Their family members had been invited, and several accepted the invitation and in turn lit a candle al the close oi the service as a be!! tolled. During the service, Lori Reiser McNeill served as cantor and sang from the new arrangement designed to protect the congregation from voice emissions by means of singing behind a clear curtain in Hie front doorway. Toni Reiser provided harmony «ith her singing. . , . Plans are completed tor the annual Christmas Basket project. One big change this year is that no food will be solicited from the elementary schools. AH food items w ill be purchased. Delivery w ill be made as usual but delivered to the doorsteps, and no volunteer driver will enter the homes. Preparations will begin Dec. 8 and conclude Dec 12 when deliveries will be made. Christmas ’Round the Town will proceed this year with some variations. The dates are Nov. 27 lUKi 28. fellowship Hall on fourth Avenue will again host a few dealers as well as other sites. Most years. Pleasant valley Church hosts several dealers and craftsmen. Some such locations host lunch also. With the election over, we should gel some relief from persistent telephone calls ot the robo variety. Many were to remind us to vote, for a particular party, but others most were pitching particular candidates. These were most common during the dinner hour and evening. 1 low to plan for Thanksgiving dinner? This is a dilemma for many hosts and hostesses this year. Is it safe to invite one’s own close family members? Can we invite our family members up to six or 10? Some churches have been generous and have hosted group meals for individuals who otherw ise would be alone. Often they have offered meals to go. Financial FOCUS Member SI PC Brandon Wilkins 307 E Green St., Ste. 1 Hastings, Ml 43058 (269) 948-2003 Jeff Domenico, AAMS0 450 Meadow Run Dr. Suite 100 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-8265 Protect your family from long-term care costs 1 ike . evcry one, you want to remain physically and financially independent throughout your life But if you lose some of this freedom, the last thing you’d want is to become a burden on your family. How can you keep this from happening? First of all, you need to tie aware of the rhk. Someone turning 65 today has almost a 70 percent chance of eventually needing some type of long­ term care, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Of course, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you face that 70 percent likelihood. In reality, you have either a zero percent chance of requiring long-term care (you’ll never need it) or a 100 percent chance (you’ll definitely need it). Nonetheless, if you think you’ve got that zero percent chur.cc. you’re taking a gamble - and it could be a big one. became long-term care is expensive. I he median annua! cost for a private room in a nursing home is over $102.000, according to Genworth, an insurance company. Other long­ term care sen ices, .Mich as those provided by a home health care aide, also don't come cheaply. Furthermore. you can’t count on .Medicare paying all these costs - in fact, it would probably only cover a small portion of a nursing home stay and provide limited assistance for home health care. So, if you were financially unprepared for the expense of long-term care, the burden might fall on your loved ones. This could be a big financial challenge, in two ways. First, if a family member had to become your caregiver, this individual might have to abandon a career, or at least substantially reduce their working hours. Not only would this result in a loss of income, but it could also lower the amounts that could be contributed to a 40l(k) or similar employ er-sponsored retirement plan. Second, if your family members couldn’t leave their jobs or cut back on their hours, or they were simply unable to provide the type of long-term care you need, they might be forced to pay for a nursing home stay or home health care worker out of pocket. To avoid these outcomes, you have a couple of options: • Self-insure - You could conceivably ’self-insure" against the costs of long-term care by devoting a portion of your investment portfolio specifically to this purpose. However, if at some point you require admission to a nursing home, it may require a significant commitment of your resources. • Purchase protection Over the past decade or so, there’s been an increase in the types of long-term care protection vehicles available. These instruments vary widely in cost and in w hat they cover, but by choosing a protection option, you may greatly lower the financial risk you might face. By consulting with a financial professional, you should be able to find an arrangement that’s appropriate for your situation. Preserving your financial independence and helping protect that of your family should be a key financial goal. And you can make progress toward accomplishing this by recognizing the potential cost of long-term care and taking steps to deal with it. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Junes Financial Advisor. Edward Jones is a licensed insurance producer in all states and Washington, DC., through Edward D. Jones & Co., L.P. and in California. New Mexico and Massachusetts through Edward Jones Insurance Agency of California, L.L.C.: Edward Jones Insurance Agency of New Mexico, L.LC.; and Edward Jones Insurance Agency of Massachusetts, LLC. EMIY HOLIDAY HEADLINES for The Hastings Banner Deadline for ADS: Tuesday, Nov. 24 at Noon Deadline for NEWS: Tuesday, Nov. 24 at Noon Deadline for CLASSIFIEDS: Tuesday, Nov. 24 at 2 p.m. Papers will be on the newsstands Wednesday, Nov. ; hI'swgsBanner in law -Information also won’t be given to law Bridge Magazine One day aflvr n(jW contact tracing enforcement or immigration officials, unless a regulations were imposed on subpoena requires it. It “will be protected as Michigan reslnuhlnIs linj bars, the state health confidential information to the fullest extent department softencj requirements for of lire law," according to the state. collecting custonu,r./ names and phone •Restaurants arc “encouraged" to collect numbers. information from all members of a party, or Under the new guidelines released parent information for minors. However, one Tuesday, the rect>inmends — but does person per household is acceptable, the state not require — dining establishments deny said. entry to customers who won’t provide contact Under the new guidance, restaurants have information. The Mak. also said it will not a choice when customers won’t comply with hold restaurant* or bars responsible for file information request: “MDHHS patrons who provide false information, and recommends that the facility deny entry to the will not require businesses to ask for proof of patron." identification. Michigan’s troubled restaurant industry Hie clarifications were issued after the hopes the new requirements will not curtail state restaurant industry expressed frustration business or anger customers. Monday on how (O interpret safely rules "We’ll see how this works out,’’ Winslow announced last week that vcre intended to said Tuesday. slow the spread of ( OVID-19. A business’ failure to ask for this customer Last 'Thursday, Robert Gordon, director of information is a misdemeanor, carrying up Io the Michigan Department of Health and a six-month jail term and a possible $1,000 Human Services, issued a series of new civil fine. restrictions impaling restaurants, bars and Tuesday, Lynn Sulfin. MDHHS other indoor businesses. They included a spokesperson, said the department had requirement for businesses to collect the updated its coronavirus website to add a Q& A names and phone numbers of patrons so that on collection of customer information for health officials could later warn them if there contact tracing. It’s now listed among Oct. 29 was a virus outbreak. Other changes included document links under the gatherings and requiring restaurants to limit tables to six facemask order of the same day. customers or fewer, and that customers wear After looking nt the new guidelines masks even while seated, except when eating IXiesday. Winslow said, “They’re clarifying, and drinking. In addition, crowd sizes at for sure. Some basic unknowns were indoor events, such as banquets, weddings addressed.’’ and conferences, were limited to 50 people, However, concerns for the industry down from 500. remain, he said. During an Michigan The new rules took effect Monday, but Restaurant and Lodging Association board with no slate-issued guidelines on how to call Monday night, restaurant owners shared interpret some of the fine points. Restaurant what Winslow described as “frustrations that owners were frustrated by the lack ot clarity there had been some altercations already on on key points, such as- What should restaurants Day- 1.” do if customers won’t give their names? Will The altercations involved asking patrons restaurants be responsible if customers give for their personal information, and being met false information? Must every one at the table, with a challenge. even children, provide identification? Some restaurant owners Monday tried to “We have had hundreds and hundreds of head off potential conflict by asking for calls from our members about this." Justin customer information once at the table, Winslow, CEO of the Michigan Restaurant instead of “creating a confrontation situation and Lodging Association, said Monday in at the door," Winslow said. reaction to the safety rules. Last week’s order to get information for MDHHS answered those questions and contact tracing came as outbreaks among bars others in a press release Tuesday: and restaurantsjumped in Michigan. According -Organizations should collect only the to the state website, which was updated since name, phone number and dale and time of Monday evening to reflect Oct. 29 data. 21 service of patrons. No address or other new outbreaks were reported most recently, information is needed. and eight outbreaks continue. Among the new -Restaurants are not responsible for outbreaks. 11 involved restaurant employees. verifying customer intonnation, though they Six ot those were in Region 2, or Detroit and must store what (hey are given for 28 days. surrounding counties in southeastern - I’he infonn.ilion won’t be given to a local ; Michigan; or state health departiucgt unless one requests t In comparison to the 21 new outbreaks it. n tied to restaurants and bars. 16 were in manufacturing or tonstru ma— and eight in retail. renlain a concern in While privacy is sinlj|;ir requirements the industry •• and cau^.1" hided - M.chigan S'sSX'nfonnntitm ts only* be order stuld not be st,Id. or "’"^^XrM^g^afditwdcomcd the specific protections against sharing t ic information, and it plans to g.ve MDHHS shouid give people confidence that thetr personal iXUtion will be kept private and used or the very limited purpose ol s'c'nniing: the spread of COVID-19." Bonsitu Kitaba. ACLb of Michigan deputy legal director, said in a statement to Bridge Magazine. -The guidance also makes clear that customers and businesses will not be punished if a customer chooses not to provide their personal information, she added. State officials encourage restaurants to use existing data to fulfill the requirement, such as online reservation bookings. The regulations also apply to other businesses, including stadiums and cinemas, according to the state, because people there “may not know who the people are who were near them." “Venues collecting patrons’ names and numbers allows public health officials to more quickly contact someone who might have contracted COVID-19." Cases of coronavirus continue to increase in Michigan, with hospitalizations climbing Monday to nearly 2.000 statewide - the most since early May. Meanwhile, Winslow said restaurant operators are worried about their futures. A recent survey showed that 20 percent of Michigan restaurants may not survive until spring. They’re concerned that the new regulation, which follows controversial mandatory mask orders in Michigan by several months, could keep customer* away at a time when most desperately need the sales. “It’s potential deterrence and frustration among patrons (that’s a worry],’’ Winslow said. “Il feels like it could be creating an awful lot of strife and turmoil for very little payback.” That’s not to challenge the need for public health attention to the virus, he added. “Is the strife you’re going to cause the industry worth this?” he asked, “if the answer is ‘y es,’ we’ll move past this." Commissioners put the brakes ora reappointments untiB next year Rebecca Pierce , Editor Barry County commissioners were ready to approve reappointments to the county’s Brownfield Redevelopment Authority board when they realized next y ear’s board should make that call. “It’d be like the president appointing the next cabinet for the new president,” Chairwoman Heather Wing pointed out during Tuesday’s committee of the whole meeting in Leason Sharpe Hall at the Barry Community Enrichment Center. Commissioners were considering the reap­ pointment of Jim McManus, Jennifer Heinzman and Chelscy Foster to the county’s redevelopment board for three-year terms beginning Jan. 1.2021, and ending Dec. 31, 2023. “We do not typically front-load our appoint­ ments for new commissions," Wing said. “Dan (Parker] and 1 will be leaving. And I don’t want to set a bad precedent where we’re making appointments for next year’s board because next year’s board will have a differ­ ent makeup and a different chair." Earlier this year, both Wing and Parker announced their p|ans t0 resign at the end of their icons, deciding not to seek re-election because of their interests in pursuing other offices. So. this week’s election should offi­ cially determine their successors. Catherine Getty in District 2. Parker's seat, and Bruce Campbell in District 7 Wine's seat, in the new year. C ommissioner Dave Jackson made the motion Tuesday to rcnppoint McManus, Foster and lleinznian And. after listening to Wing, he noted that these same people were already scrVing 0J) |hey hlld asked to lx- reappointed, there were no other npphcants f<lr consideration, and these three are the best qualified. Reappointing ,h wou|d help continue P's’^ess on broantieiJ assessment grants tlicy re working Oll . oW Jackson said, add">t;. 1 would recommend going forward. Commissioner Dan Parker, who seconded the motion, agreed. “You can have some his­ tory there, that’s really important. I agree with Dave." 'Hie county’s redevelopment authority was established as a resource for tax increment financing - and it’s a key component in local property redevelopment, most notably in Hastings and Middleville. Il’s currently work­ ing on two EP/X brownfield assessment grant projects in Middleville: the Slate Struct park­ ing lot and the site at 112 E. Main Street. Tlie authority reviews proposals for rede­ velopment of eligible property and determines what financial incentives would be necessary to make redevelopment viable. 'Elie county established the authority board in July 2002. but it was inactive due to a lack of projects. In 2017. the county re-established it and appointed seven members. The members currently are: Jackson. McManus, the county’s planning and zoning director; Foster, community president at Commercial Bank and a former brownfield project manager in Gratiot County; Brian Urquhart, planning and zoning administrator for the Village of Middleville; Dan King, community development director for the City of Hastings; Cindy Vujea, economic develop­ ment coordinator for the county’s economic development alliance board; and Heinzman, president of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development Alliance. Despite Jackson’s desire to proceed with the appointments. County Administrator Michael Brown advised him that board rules, in these circumstances, require candidates for vacancies “shall be inters iewed and appointed by the newly elected board." In the past, when these situations have aris­ en, commissioners could recommend and be allowed to have that input, but the newly elected county board would act on the appoint­ ments in the new year, he said. Commissioners followed Brown’s advice and recommended these reappointments, with action to be taken by' the new board in the new year. In other business, commissioners: • Supported a recommendation by animal shelter director Ken Kirsch Jr. to spend $10,000 from the animal shelter donation fund for the purpose of Trap, Neuter and Release tor feral/bam cals in the county. The funds will be used in conjunction with a cur­ rent $2,950 remaining from a grant with the restriction of $25 per animal. The current projected balance of the shelter donation fund is $271,642. • Supported the request by Barry County Chief Public Defender Kerri Selleck to approve a 2021 grant contract with the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission for $911,597 from Oct. 1 to Sept. 30, 2021, for the continuation of indigent defense services in the county. The local share for this agree­ ment is $231,076. The contract will include an assistant public defender and a corrections officer position. Within 15 days of the execut­ ed agreement. 50 percent of the total grant will be disbursed, followed by 25 percent by May 15,2021, and the final payment Aug. 14, 2021. The payments are contingent on quar­ terly reports. • Recommended approval of Drain Commissioner Jim Dull’s request for $5,000 to update the Drain Commission Storm Water Standards. • Supported approval of the proposed 2021 Barry County health plans for employees, as recommended by the county’s healthcare cost “* ro»>>nitlce. Last year, the county N. vht? ‘™” Pnwil> Health to Blue Cross Z C , "’SS Bll,e Shicl‘i an overBCHS ?SS "< 'ca,*h Cttre premiums. BCN/ ctm tr “ 7 9 1Went ohn he “clual increase varies by cem Th'8 8 ' -5 ',ercenl 5 07 P«’ bv 3 3 Cnk P °y"con,nbu,i°n will increase increi-H DUC *° relatively low plans will h rv? 7' pl“" Prcmium‘>. s0,ne in 2021 than it'2o"()';rei'’p,0>'ce<'(>i>tribution Can 269-945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classified ads �.yjP-19 cases continue I | I I I I. i | .. hmtcd\’^of SWf W>,icr ‘7221 con ’ I to ...use c.;.es report! "”' poor. evci1 days ' A report iv-kased bv t) (ji,met Health IXpartniem Mond’iv J k Barn < ounty s j.ue ot ncw ,u,‘ty showed population !s more Ihiln double avej' -lhe increase in cases ,.,t in uorking.age mlulis’XJd ; acceding Ilt a press i.-i... ' ’ health department Oa ’?SUed by the Offen linked to workpla^ are gatherings. ’ tS‘ dlUrch« and "Overall, there has been n • ^crease across the whole counrC’8"1 lCanl Middleville arul Hastings.” hedth d»n°l ’USl community health promotion spechrtiM Sanh Suma said. “We have had sev .r i t.hardh ..aked to church services the ; weks. \ e have also sccll an inch. 1 rr 7Cre: S,,ch ;,s ul> "<’*dno tre the leaves change, with lricl)lk <)r snd then later de\eloping COVID “ ’* : Barry County's seven-day average of new "Overall, there has been a significant increase , e whole county, not just Middleville and Hasting5- । e had several outbreaks linked to church services in . w weeks. We have also seen an increase of Pe°P cfianoo • somewhere, such as up north to see the le^YSx/|O.'' y ' friends or family, and then later developing Sarah Surna, BEi?Aiion°JTlrT1Unity health promotion specja|ist and probable cases per million was 478.9. as oi last Saturday, while Michigan’s average was 218.4, Eaton County had counted 299.2 per million. Though Barry* County does not have ] million residents, the statistic is pre­ sented to create a direct comparison of lhe rale of cases between the county and the slate. However, those numbers also change In the day. As of Monday , a total of 40 people had been hospitalized in Barry County, 18 of whom were admitted to a hospital in October. Around 200 tests are administered every A&Doctor Exercise benefits and choices Dr. Universe: Why and how docs exercise help our bodies? What the best exercise is for our bodies? Lavla. 5 1/2 Dear Layla, When we exercise, it helps the body and mind in so many different ways. One important muscle that benefits from exercise is the heart. Maybe you've felt your heart beat harder and faster u hen you run or climb at lhe playground. As lhe heart gets stronger, it also gels better at pumping blood around the body. That’s really important because your blood is full of oxygen you need to help fuel all your body’s systems. Thai’s what 1 found oui from my friend Chris Connolly, an associate professor al Washington State University who knows a lol about lhe science of exercise. “Exercise is good for lhe systems inside your body. Your heart, your lungs and your digestive system.” Connolly said. “Il’s also really good for your mind.” When you are active, you arc improving your memory, creativity and even critical thinking skills. Many studies have found that kids who exercise before a lest gel belter scores. Tests can be stressful, but exercising can help reduce all kinds of nervousness. It’s a great way lo help us calm down. From the heart to the mind, exercise is one way we can care for our bodies. And with so many different kinds of exercises to try. I just had to find out which one was besl. ’ “The best exercise we can do is the one we are going to do consistently’ the rest ot our lives.” Connolly said. Humans have different abilities and interests, he said, so how we exercise will l(K>k a little different for each person. Find the exercise that’s just right for you and stick with it. Connolly likes to lift weights and go running. He and his famity sometimes build obstacle courses in their yard, too. I don't know about jou. but I think that sounds like a fun way to help stay fit. As for me. I like to explore the outdoors, stretch and climb trees. Like you, I enjoy trying out new ways of exercising. The question jou asked inspired me to try these different exercises that had me hopping like a frog, crawling like a crab, waddling like a duck and stretching out my arms and legs like a starfish. Maybe you can try them. too. It turns out people need different amounts of exercise as they get older. /\ lot of kids age 3 to 5 gel all the exercise they need just from playing. For kids who are older than 5. an hour of physical activity a day can help strengthen bones and build muscle. Meanwhile, adults need about 150 minutes of exercise a week. It’s important to stay active throughout our entire life, so it’s good to hear you are learning some new exercises. You’re off to a great start. Next time you do your favorite exercises, think about all the wonderful things you are doing for your body and all the things your body does for you. Dr. Universe Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University’s resident scientist and writer at Dr.Universc@wsu.edu or visit her website, askdruniverse.com. day. of which 9-01*^^ Positive. According •>’ h ^“gazinc. 2,059 patients are currendy " hsp„;lls stale, and die rate h...,, cascs "as 10.1 percent. as ot fue^ »“1 nUmbcn> Wcre a| their highest ',nCt more people than j ' “>• b s also 1.000 PHahzed the previ- " County Christian.School was closed all last week after < ent tested positive Oct. 25. and anoth . 27. Administrator Brandon Strong P etits had contact with each other, but. had exposure to the virus outside the schooL One non-teaching • » member also tested positive, though Strong said the individual already had been sell-quarantining for some time due to possible exposure outside of school. M School resumed Monday aftcr no niore positive cases were reported. The Barry County Sheriff's Office went from zero total cases to four, within the past few weeks. Sheriff Dar Leaf said three of them were members of lhe same household. ••Once one individual in a household is infected, it is very' common for other house­ hold members to also become infected.” Suma said. One of the four deputies was scheduled to return to work Wednesday. Due to absences and potential for further spread, the office is currently closed to lhe public, and will remain for the foreseeable future. Leaf said. Sex-offender registration and fingerprinting are on hold, though gun registration can be done via a dropbox in the office. The Hastings City Police Department had two positive cases last month, Chief Jeff Pratt said. IXvo more officers were quarantined GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the 7 Hastings Banner. fha Hastings Banner — Thursday. November 5. 2020 — Paga 9 to rise in county "We reiterate our recommendation to attend church virtually, or if that’s not possible; wear masks, socially distance, have smaller groups, do not sing, and reduce lhe amount of time you are around others.’’ a press release from the health department stated. "Churches have the potential lo become super spreading events like this one, unless strong mitigation measures are taken.” "We recommend individuals to lake specif­ ic actions now to reduce COVID-19 spread.” the release continued. "We recommend; attend church virtually, work from home if possible, have social events virtually or out­ doors, masked and socially distanced, with lhe goal of reducing the number people you interact with from other households.” Staff Writer Sophie Bates contributed to this story. after they were close contacts with people who hud tested positive, though both later tested negative. Frail said lhe department is taking new precautions, including requiring officers lo wear masks in the office when they are in common areas or near other officers. With only 11 regular road patrol officers, Fran said lhe department is taking care to prevent an outbreak that would affect its abil­ ity to police lhe community. lhe department is continuing services except for court-ordered breathalyzer tests. lhe health department confirmed an out­ break connected lo Liberty Church in Grand Ledge. As of last Thursday, there were 65 cases associated with the facility, seven hospi­ talizations and one death - a resident of Ingham County. Hastings Charter Township voters undeterred by wait Sophie Bates Staff Writer Anita Mennell has been the Hastings Township Clerk since 2011, almost a decade, and she’s never seen an election like this. “Oh. this one was extremely busy. I’ve never seen lines like this.” Mennell said Wednesday. “It was so busy, I had to have someone else in lhe parking lot helping, and the cars were up and dow*n the road for like half a mile.” “You kx)k out and all you saw* was a mass of people.” Out ol 2,201 registered Hastings Township voters. 1.516 residents.or 69 percent, voted in 2016. Tuesday, 1,749 residents cast ballots out ol 2.425 registered voters, outdoing 2016 voter turnout with 72 percent. Mennell said lines ranged in length, but she heard from some voters they waited approximately an hour and a half to cast their votes. I w as really surprised by lhe voter turnout we had,” Mennell said. “People were good when they w ere here.They were understanding that it was going to take time.” Mennell also received significantly more absentee ballots than in previous elections. Forty-four percent of the votes counted I uesday were cast absentee for a total of 779 absentee voters. “I had a gixxl three times as many absentee ballots as I’ve had before,” Mennell said, praising the Absent Voter Counting Board — which handled counting all the absentee voles — while Mennell’s poll workers focused on in-person voting. “We knew we wouldn’t be able to do it if we didn’t have one of those [an Absent Voter Counting Board},” Mennell said. “We’d probably still be counting.” Call 269-945-9554 for more information. <31 Overall, the majority of voters wore masks, but weren’t as good about following social distancing. The floors were marked with stickers, but voters weren’t paying attention. Mennell said. There was one snag. The tabulating machine, which counts all the in-person votes, froze after ballots had been run through al the end of the night. “Twenty-five minutes later, and it’s (the machine’s} still saying. ‘Please wait, please wait,”’ .Mennell said. After calling the machine's vendor and Barry County Clerk Pam Palmer — who subsequently called the State Bureau of Elections — Mennell removed the USB card, which recorded the tabulator’s data, and took it to Palmer, who was able to read and report the results using the county’s system. "The Slate told her {Palmer} 1 was not the only one having that problem,” Mennell said. Tuesday, Hastings Township voters re-elected Township Supervisor Jim Brown, Mennell,Treasurer Jenee Phillips and trustees Timothy McNally and William Wetzel in uncontested races. Scott Savage, a newcomer to the township board, also was elected as a trustee in an unconlcsled race. Trustee Keith Murphy did not seek re-election. Trustee James Partridge made a bid for lhe township supervisor post, but was defeated by Brown in the August primary. Murphy’s and Partridge’s terms will expire Nov. 20. However, Partridge, Deunis McKelvey and Benjamin Strimback ail filed as write-in candidates, and one trustee seat remains open. A total of 63 votes were cast for write-in candidates, but lhe results were not available at press time. NO MORE GUTTER CLEANING, OR YOUR MONEY BACK GUARANTEED! e' PBoncnoN CALL US TODAY FOR X* A FREE ESTIMATE Barry Community Free Dental Clinic (Low income, uninsured persons over age 18) I5& YOUR ENTIRE PURCHASE 1-866-495-1709 10i 1D SENIOR t MILITARY DISCOUNTS % OFF 5 TO THE FIRST SO CALLERS' Promo Number 28S The clinic has dentists continually donating services. ”*Income verification required’* Please apply at Barry County United Way (269) 945-4010 MICHAEL KINNEY PLUMBING SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Licensed Master Plumber Licensed Journeyman Plumber < *« journeyman »lumuvi ;V® Veterans, active-duty military members can count on Social Security Vonda Van Til Public Affairs Specialist Every year on Veterans Day. we honor the people who risk their lives to protect our country. Our disability program is «in important part of our obligation to wounded warriors and their families. Social Security is an important resource for military members who return home ".th injuries. If you know a wounded veteran.Jet them know about our Wounded Warrior webpage. You can find it at ssa.gov/ wounded warriors. ..rl<wt»rs The Wounded Wanton webpage answer many commonly asked questions andI sh o other useful infot.nal.on abou ^fits. uKl.1di.1g ^,v^^-\5;<;u.ly eMactl.fed p«KC>M (|iroug|1 disability claims. Be ' ( fn)lll Social securny are dribn the Department ol Veterans / i tequire a separate app We '!'",lar> Xoi- 1 , ptocess for X become ?ve nilitary service on or i -gardlev /.it where the disability occurs. Even active-duty military* who continue io receive pay while in a hospital or on medical leave should consider applying for disability benefits if they’re unable to work due to a disabling condition. Aclive-duly status and receipt of military pay doesn’t necessarily prevent payment of Social Security disability benefits. Although a person can’t receive Social Security disability benefits while engaging in substantial work for pay or profit, receipt of military payments should never slop someone from applying for disability benefits. Our w ebpages arc easy to share on social media ami by email wilh your friends and family. Please consider passing this informalion along lo someone who may need ii. Vonda Van Til is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may wntc her do Social Security Administration. MM,5 Knapp A7L (irand Rapids Ml 49525, or email i onda.vantil@ .»'a gov. New construction. remodel, repair, drain cleaning. BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEATERS Same Day Installation I .iccnse 110376 Office (269) 948-2248 & Insured Mobile (269) 838-5112 BARRY COUNTY. Ml FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER Join the FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER OF BARRY COUNTY TURKS p endless love. ‘ • Sean & Milhouse | lu’llo (q ,]i . [>P ; ,J°ny s friends from th Day Center! Inin our fast-paced and tun working environment to mate a difference in our community. We have qn opening for a Family Support Center Program Manaoer Coordinate and deliver family and community nrooramminq to help build safe and nurturing family nod immunity environments Incumbent will have a BaX's degree in Social Work, Early Childhood. Firnilv Studies, Child Development or comparable experience. We offer a flexible schedule of 120 hours ocr month, including some evenings. Incumbent must have valid driver's license and insurance. Background clearance is required. Experience in parent education curriculums is helpful. Please send resumes to �Pago 10 — Thursday, November 5. 2020 — The Hastings Banner Planning commission recommends commercial kennel permit, discusses zoning changes Sophie Bates Staff Writer The Hastings Planning Commission Monday evening recommended that the city council adopt an amendment that would allow commercial kennels in the city’s D-l and D-2 industrial districts under a special-use permit. The city council will review the amend­ ment at one or more upcoming meetings and LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENTS ESTATE FILE NO. 20-28635-DE Estate of March A Kidder. Date of birth: June 19. 1945. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Marcia A K-dder. dted September 19, 2020. Cred.tofS of tha decedent are notified that all claims against the estate w*!l be forever barred unless presented to Robin A. Kidder-DeWent. personal representative, or lo both lhe probate court 206 W. Court St., Ste. 302. Hastings. Ml 49058 and the persona! representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: October 28,2020 Warner Norcorss + Judd LLP O,one E. Ameadaji P83106 150 Ottawa Avenue NW, Suite 1500 Grand Rapids. Michigan 49503 (616) 752-2000 Robin A Kidder-DeWent 2664 Agon drive Middleville. Ml 49333 (269) 838-0274 150475 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961.1961 PA236. MCL 600.3212. that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale lo the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check al lhe place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting promptly al 1.00 PM. on November 12, 2020 The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale Placing the highest bid at Lhe sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and dear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title Insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this informationName(s) of the mortgagors) Ronald J. Hermenitt and Ruby M. Hermenitt, husband and wife Original Mortgagee. Drtech Financial LLC FKA Green Tree Servicing LLC F/K/A CONSECO FINANCE SERVICING CORP. Foredos’ng Assignee (if any) New Rez LLC dba She»polnt Mortgage Servicing Date cf Mortgage. June 13, 2000 Date of Mortgage Recording. Juno 21, 2000 Amount claimed due on date cf notice: $85,589.81 Description of the mortgaged premises- Situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County. Michigan, and described as That Part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 20, Town 2 North. Range 10 West, desenbed as Commencing at the Northeast comer of said Section; thence South 89 degrees 59 minutes West 1009.17 feet along tho North l.ne of said Northeast 1/4 to the Centerline of Lindsey road; thence South 08 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds West 33.35 feel along said Centerline to the place of beginning: thence North 89 degrees 59 minutes East 233 00 feet, thence South 08 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds West 220 00 feet, thence South 89 degrees 59 minutes West 233 00 feet; thence North 03 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds East 220.0 feet along said Centerline to the place of beginning. Common street address (if any): 11224 Ronald Ln. Dolton, Ml 49046-7764 The redemption period shall be 6 months from lhe date of such sate, unless determined abandoned in accordance with MCL 600 3241a; or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purposes as defined by MCL 600 3240(16) If tho property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Ad of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600 3278 the borrower will be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging tho property during the redemption period Atfention homeowner; If you are a military service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago. or if you have been ordered to adive duty, please contad the attorney for the party foreclosing lhe mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice October 15. 2020 Trott Law. P C. 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248)642-2515 1422979 (1O-15)(11-O5) 149194 decide whether to adopt the changes. The amendment defines a commercial ken­ nel as a lot with three or more dogs, three or more cats or a combination that arc ready for permanent purchase or arc temporarily board­ ed. bred or raised for commercial uses. The D-l and D-2 industrial districts are scattered across the city with some being clos­ er to residential areas than others, which raised concerns that noisy kennels could dis­ turb residents. To prevent this, lhe amendment stipulates that commercial kennels arc allowed under n special-use permit only. A special-use permit means any individual wanting to open a com­ mercial kennel must submit a special-use pennit application site plan for approval by the planning commission. “And then you would review lhe request in full under the special land use criteria when you would be able to say, ‘You know, if this is adjacent to a heavily populated residential LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENT’S ESTATE FILE NO. 20-28633-DE Estate of Janet Adams Date of birth: 9-13-1955. TO ALL CREDITORS; NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Janet Adams, died 9-28-2020. Creditors of tho decedent are notified that all claims against tho estate will be forever barred unless presented to Bethany J. Slaght, personal representative, or to both the probato court 206 W. Court St.. Hastings. Ml 49058 and tho personal representative within 4 months after the dato of publication of this notice. Date: 10-29-2020 Shane A Henry P82054 121 Wost Apple Street. Suite 101 Hastings. Michiaan 49056 269-945-3512 ~ Bethany J. Slaght 362 West Mam Street VermcntvJte, Ml 49096 269-838-6433 150476 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF CALHOUN NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENTS ESTATE FILE NO. 2020-000750-DE Estate of Jean W. Aki. Date of birth: July 4.1958. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Jean W. Aki, died September 10, 2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Benyamln R. Akl. personal representative, or to both the probate court 161 E. Michigan Avenue, Battle Creek, Michigan 49014 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: November 3,2020 Stephanie S. Fekkes P43549 150 W. Court Street, Ste. A Hastings, Ml 49058 269-945-1921 Benyamin R. Aki c/o Rhoades McKee, 150 W. Court Street, Ste. A Hastings, Ml 49058 269-945-1921 150556 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENTS ESTATE FILE NO. 20-28640-DE Estate of Nancy Marie Henriksson, Deceased. Dato of birth: September 30.1957. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Nancy Marie Henriksson. died August 13. 2020. Creditors of tho decedent are notified that all claims against tho estate will be forever barred unless presented to Mikael P. Henriksson, personal representative, or to both tho probato court 206 W. Court Street, Suite 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: November 3,2020 Foster Swift Collins & Smith PC Michael C. Zahrt P78852 1700 East Beltline, N.E., Suite 200 Grand Rapids, Ml 49525 (616) 726-2223 Mikael P. Henriksson 6091 West State Road Middleville. Ml 49333 (616)550-1135 150562 Public Hearing HASTINGS CHARTER TOWNSHIP Proposed 2021 Budget . PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on November 10 at 7:00 pm at the Township Hall at 885 River Road, Hastings, the Board of Trustees will hold a Public Hearing on the proposed 2021 Township General Fund , Library and Sewer Fund Budgets. The Board may not adopt the proposed 2021 budgets until after the public area, you know yOur mjswcr might be no.’ Or you might impo^ additional screening. I incan that s the luxury of n special use is that you can say no. z\ pvrinittelj use you cannot." the city s Panning COnsu|Mnt Rebecca Harvey This issue was raised at lflst month's plan­ ning commission meeting when Karen Zuvcr. owner of the doggic.daycarc KAZ Canine Comers, addressed the commission. After she lost a significant amount of business due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Zuvcr said she is hoping to revitalize her business by adding a kenneling service. As it currently stands commercial kennels are only allowed in Hastings’ niral residential zones, and Zuver’s business is in n D-2 indus­ trial district. Harvey noted that it is not is not uncommon for cities to allow commercial kennels in industrial districts, which tend to be noisier. “Il is a use that, in other communities, they often will allow jn an industrial district just because you’re typically near other intense uses — although that’s not always the case. But that’s why you would want it as a special use so that you could apply standards,’’ Haney said. Recommending the amendment to the city council is the second step in what will likely be at least a four-month process. Later in the meeting, the board heard another request for adding a special use to the D-l and D-2 industrial districts, this time by Andrew Courtright. Courtright and his wife, Callie, own TYiFit, a CrossFit gym in Hastings. After experienc­ ing significant growth since the gym opened in 2016, they are looking to expand their busi­ ness. “Over the course of those four years, we’ve grown up.” Andrew Courtright said. “We’ve grown from a few family and friends to over 150 members. We’ve outgrown two locations in that time, and we’re gelling to the point of capacity in our third location we’ve rented. “Our idea is to explore the idea of building our own fitness center here in Hastings. [WeJ want to continue to invest in our members and potential new members as well and make this community as healthy as wc possibly can.” Commission members discussed how best to fit Courtright’s request into the language of the city’s current zoning regulations and, ulti­ mately, asked Harvey to conduct further research and present them with write-ups at the next meeting. The planning commission also had a public hearing lo solicit comment on an amendment regarding accessor) buildings in residential and office districts. The amendment changed lhe language of the ordijuoce to apply to “res­ idential accessory/'buildings” instead of “accessory buildings in residential and office zoning districts.” The change was prompted- by a request from Tom Watson of The Legacy at Hastings golf course, who is looking to make some improvements to the course, including con­ structing a maintenance building. The lan­ guage change exempted Watson and his accessory building from the regulations imposed on residential accessory buildings, such as maximum size and number of acces­ sory buildings. Watson also presented a site plan to die commission that detailed the maintenance building and other proposed changes, includ­ ing addition of a gravel driveway and parking lot for staff and supply deliveries and planting 26 pine trees to act as a buffer between the maintenance building and neighboring prop­ erties. The commission asked Watson to return with a more detailed site plan reviewed by an engineer before moving forward. In other business, the commission: • Approved a driveway relocation and waived landscaping requirements for the Christ the King Church at 328 S. Jefferson St. • Approved a request by Julie Fox for a one-year extension of a site plan submitted Dec. 2,2019, regarding expansion of U-RcntEm Canoe livery to a flood plain on Center Road. Fox said restrictions due to COVID-19 prompted lhe need for an extension. • Reviewed sample documents from Han ey regarding the keeping of animals, specifically chickens, in the city. T)ie commission pushed this item to its December meeting to spend more time reviewing documents. Marriage v Licenses ' hearing. The proposed property tax rate to be levied to support the proposed budget will be discussed at this hearing. A copy of the proposed budget, including the proposed properly tax millage rate, will be available for inspection after November 5 by appointment with the Clerk. Anita S Mennell, Clerk 269-948-9690 office Kenth Michelle Redbum. Hastings and Stesen Lewis WeSlcn,elj fastings John Steven BroWn Kington Heights, IL and Jennifer Lynn Barnwell. Wayland Suzanne Jeannette n'anMee. Dclt0" and Mark Alan Davis iy,i * Rachel Anne 'o?opez. Delton and Fabian Goloia, Deh'ngW^ und Torri Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the township clerk at least seven (7) days in advance of the hearing This notice posted in compliance with PA 267 of 1976 as amended (Open Meetings Act) MCLA41,72a(2)(3) and with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). KSx^I-rdRapids“nd Roland Gilbert Jr Dowling and ^rnf.LHhKetJen^X Sally Marie Baker, 54, of Hastings, was convicted of embezzling SI ,000 or more, but less than $20,000, between August 2019 and January 2020 in Hastings, a crime that was committed through fraud. deceit, misrepresentation, coercion or unjust enrichment. The intent was to obtain, use or Attempt to use money or properly of value from a vulnerable adult that directly or indirectly benefitted herself, knowing or having reason to know that lhe adult was vulnerable and that the money or property had a value of more than $1,000 but less than S20JXX). Baker had two prior felonies of domestic violence Dec. 5, 2012, and Nov. 7, 2018, both in Barry County. Judge Michael ^chipper sentenced her to serve 180 days in jail, with credit for one day served, and to pay $2,013 in fines and costs, including SI.615 in restitution. Baker was placed on probation for 36 months. Bryant Joseph Bush, 28, of Hastings, was convicted of possession of a controlled substance, an analogue, or prescription form of a narcotic or drug, and assaulting, resisting and obstructing a police officer. He was sentenced by Judge Schippcr to 365 days in jail, which was suspended, and Bush was placed on probation for 24 months. He was ordered to pay $566 in fines and costs and placed in the adult drug court program, which includes a $40 monthly fee. Two other charges of assaulting/resisting and obstructing a police officer as well as charges of operating a vehicle on a suspended license and having an open container of alcohol in a vehicle were dismissed at sentencing. Dakota Joe Cranson. 25, of Wayland, was convicted of assaulting/resisting and obstructing a police officer Feb. 16, 2019, in Nashville. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper lo serve 36 days in jail, with credit for 36 days served, and was ordered to pay $398 in fines and costs. A charge of malicious destruction of fire or police property, a body microphone belonging to the Barry County sheriff’s department, was dismissed. habitual offender were sentenced as a hab.mal ()f showed convictions for | cocaine, heroin, or other narco c Jjj^ * 1989. in Ionia County; dangerous weapon Sept. 1 . ,n a «po . County, cnrryiniT carryii n conccnlcd in jonia motor vehicle Sept. 17. j County; receiving and concealing a stoic fireann July 8, 1996. in Ionia County. Tttcmpted escape while he was awaiting tn on a felony charge Sept. 16. 1996. onia County; arson of insured property g- • 2005. in Eaton County; attempted re» and obstructing a police officer July 9. 200. in Ionia County. He also had two breaking and entering convictions March 24, 2010. Barry County, and Dec. 14. 2010. in lorn. County, as well as unlawfully dnving away an automobile Feb. 24. 2010, in ng am County. Jason Allen Hobbs, 49. of Hastings, was convicted of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine, and operating a vehicle on Sherman Street, Nashville, while intoxicated as a third-time offender May 30. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to two consecutive terms of 180 days in jail, with credit for four days served. He was ordered to pay $498 in fines and costs and, following jail, will be placed on probation for 60 months, during which time he will pay a $40 monthly fee to the Swift and Sure Sanctions program. His record showed prior convictions on a controlled substance violation for possession of analogues; operating a vehicle while under the intluencc of liquor in Calhoun County Oct. 21, 1993: operating a vehicle while impaired in Kalamazoo County May 24, 2006; and operating a vehicle while intoxicated in Barry County March 16.2014. Salvadore Joseph McGregor, 51, of Hastings, was convicted of the delivery or manufacture of a controlled substance, methamphetamine, in Hastings Jan. 19. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to 60 days in jail with credit for one day served and ordered to pay $398 in fines and costs. He was placed on probation for 60 months and ordered to enter and complete the adult drug court program and to pay lhe $40 monthly drug court fee. Jake Edward Dimattco, 29, of Kentwood, was convicted of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine, Jan. 28 in Nashville. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to 365 days in jail, with credit for 41 days served, and ordered to pay $398 in Eric James Morgan, 38, of Battle Creek, fines and costs. Dimatteo’s record showed pleaded no contest to two counts of prior convictions for attempted receiving and conducting a criminal enterprise in Barry and concealing a stolen fireann Dec. 18, 2008; Allegan counties and was sentenced by Judge larceny of a fireann March 2,2009; receiving Schipper to concurrent prison terms of 36 to and concealing a stolen firearm March 13, 240 months, with credit for 152 days served. 2013; and second-degree home invasion May Morgan was ordered to pay $1 j066 in fines 1,2013. and costs. His record showed prior felony convictions, including delivery and/or Christopher Bryan Haney, 49, of Lake manufacture of marijuana and maintaining a Odessa, pleaded no contest to first-degree drug house Aug. 23. 2001, in Barry County. home invasion of a dwelling on East Barnum The judge ordered that he may be eligible for Road in Woodland Township Jan. 16, when boot camp after 24 months in prison. he entered the residence without permission Restitution is to be reviewed and applied. and intent to commit a larceny and left armed with firearms. He also pleaded no contest to Terri Lorenc VanDiinen. 37, of Battle larceny of a firearm and being a felon in Creek, pleaded no contest to two counts of possession of a firearm, having been conducting a criminal enterprise in Barry and convicted of second-degree home invasion in Allegan counties between April 21 and May Ingham County Feb. 24, 2010, in Kent 15. She was convicted of being employed by, County Sept. 13. 2010, and two second- or associated with. Eric Morgan of Battle degree home invasions in Eaton County Aug. Creek, and participated in the affairs of the 20. He was sentenced by Judge Schipper to enterprise through a pattern of racketeering concurrent prison terms of 217 to 480 months activities, committing two or more break-ins on the home invasion conviction and 60 to for financial gain. She was sentenced by 120 months on the firearms convictions, with Judge Schipper to concurrent prison terms of credit for 235 days served. Haney was 36 lo 240 months, with credit for 152 days ordered to pay $3,245 in fines and costs, served. She was ordered to pay $1,066 in which includes $2,111 in restitution. Three fines and costs. The judge ordered that she charges of committing a felony with a may be eligible for boot camp after 24 firearm, being a felon in possession of months in prison. Restitution is to be ammunition, and larceny in a building as a reviewed and applied. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 /•’or Sale Help Wanted Rusinew Svreiees KASSON 10FF OAK Pool Table, excellent condition. $1,000.00 or OBO. 269-908­ 165-1____________________ AREA CHURCH SEEKS part-time Nursery Worker to provide dependable, safe, and nurturing care to chil­ dren ages 0-5 years in a clean environment. Work hours are Sundays 8:30am to 11:30am with the possibility of work­ ing more hours. If inter­ ested contact 616-886-0301 or nomolos479gmail.com MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears etc. Call 269-804-7506. CARRON SPORT AIR Hockey Table. $300.00 OBO. Phone 269-908-1654. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All red evlatc odvrertlving in ncwvpspcri* subject tolhe Fur flouting Act and the Michigan Civil Right' Act whkh cdkctivcly ink it ilkpl to adverti,? "any preference, limitation or diKriminaiion bjred tm race, color, religion. ka. buxlicap. familial nnuenal origin. age or nuitul »Utux. ix an intention, lo make any »jkh ptefcreocs. limitation or discrimination ” ianutul sum, include* children ender the age of ifl living w<th parents <»r legal cuviodians, j-rtgnitit women and people •fcvfirg ce.tivjy cf children tender lb Ihit newspaper will ox knowingly accept any adsen.-mg for real estate which i» in s»< lit' m of the law. Our reader* ure hereby infunixd that all dwelling* advertised in thre itcw.yupcr arc loadable on an opul opportunity To report d.vciini.tut call lhe lair Homing (caret at f>l(> 45l-2VM> lhe 11Vf>tell free teh.phone ttun-ber for the hearing impaired h 1 -Ftxi 9J7-V27S hi \lcimn v IN LOVING MEMORY OF Jennie Hause- November 3, 2007. Stan Hause- Novem­ ber 20. 2013, Wanda Sny­ der- November 10, 2015, Susan Doster- November 21, 2015 and Mary MontgomeryNovember 21, 2015. Missing you always. The Hause Family and Heney Family BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry wall painting, tile, flooring, trim^ home improvements, power washing. 269-320-3890 Wanted to Ih nt CHRISTIAN LADY IS see" ing to rent a small house in Hastings area, with trees and a covered porch. 517. 663-8077. �■i.ui-.ijr.i jipim VA w^| B| M The Hastings Banrwr — Thursday. November 5, 2020 — Page J1 Vl|lage, township faces at a glance ^®^?!*_T9WNSHIP [Supervisor^ --------Whg. [Clerk ~ [clerk Terry’ Votes cast 910 —--------- -- ----------- ® *LT* MOREjTQWNSHl p (Supervisor ~ ’ -— VanSyckleichalTRe-^^j : 484 [Treasurer Payne. Jolene (Democrat) Tonkin. Arlene (Republican) 1 828 862 [Trustees - two Messclink, David (Republican)' Peake, Mau (Republican) 1460 StDnebumcr, Jim (Repub!tcan) 1383 ^e'rV''—*°ebel. Rod (Republican) 1369 -------------- -— 1063 1224 *nr*e’ Judy (Republican) 1362 (Republican) ^•er. Mark D. (Republican) 1281 1298 ^Commissioner (five) 629 VanSyckle. Melissa (Republican) 844 [Trustees -two ’ “—~— VanSyckle. Aaron (Republican) Ypma. Gerard (Republican) Altoft, Micheal (Independent) IRVING TOWNSHIP Supervisor Knight. Jamie R. (Republican) 1619 [Clerk Olson, Sharon L. (Republican) | 1 1667 kiir-lCk0VV’Joanna (Democrat) n,k’John (Democrat) (Democrat) ^bler, Scott (Republican) den« Kevin (Republican) 877 786 790 1172 1171 ioe protection millage - passed 624 736 355 Library Board Trustee - three Frey, Roxanne Kingrna, Laura S McKeever. Jennifer J. 567 572 593 Dowling Public Library millage - passed 650 Y, 388 N BARRY TOWNSHIP________ [Supervisor ‘ Kahler. Wesley (Republican) Dye. Rodney (Independent) 1062 592 [Clerk ' Knight. Debra (Republican) 1447 [Treasurer ____________ Wooer. Judith (Republican) 1445 [trustees - two Bower. Barry (Republican) Campbell. Lee (Republican) 1337 1220 CARLTON TOWNSHIP______ [Treasurer Cross, Alesse (Democrat) 992 frrustees - two Bass, Dean (Republican) Buehler, Michael J. (Republican) 1532 1548 R*fe P^tection millage - passed 1315 | [Treasurer Nickerson. Karmen Kay (Republican) [Trustees • tvro Powell, Deana M. (Republican) Warren, Jeffery T. (Republican) | 1140 Icierk Brown, Amanda (Republican) ) [Treasurer....... Geiger, Tern (Republican) I ... 1143 'MAPLE GROVE TOWNSHIP Supervisor Butler. Jeff (Republican) 1132 (Clerk Carpenter, Holly (Republican) ( 1356 [Treasurer | 1375 Bond. Scott (Republican) VandeCar, Gary (Republican) 1029 1041 962 Y. 650 N ICASTl FTOM TAVUK1CMID Hartwell. Cheryl (Republican) [Clerk Scramlin, Marcia (Republican) [Treasurer Mulder, Joy E. (Republican) (Trustees • two Trahan, H. Michael (Republican) Wilson, Earl M (Republican) HASTINGS CHARTER TOWNSHIP Supervisor____________________ Brown. Jim (Republican) [Clerk Mennell. Anita S. (Republican) 643 1108 [Trustees - two Hook. Larry J. (Republican) Wesendorp. Doug (Republican) (ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP Supervisor Rook. Thomas J. (Republican) 1181 1178 1034 1075 1354 [treasurer Mousseau, Debra L. (Republican) 2543 1 | [Trustees - two pi «» fu bl.Vi/fi 654 655 561 621 Bellmore, Brenda (Republican) Hall, Gene D. (Republican) James. Sandra L (Republican) Spencer. Matt (Republican) [Clerk Risner, Melody (Republican) 1532 2448 [CITY OF HASTINGS Mayor Tossava, David Joel | 2603 City Council Ward 1 (one) Jarvis. Al 6H6 City Countil Ward 2 (one) Resseguie. John 530 - 1923 399 339 109 1922 Board of Review (two) Winick, Melissa 1658 1615 1712 1629 VILLAGE OF FREEPORT [President Andrev/s. William THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP _______ Supervisor Parker, Dan (Republican) 4167 ........ 2470 | 158 "——— 164 [Trustee (four-year term)___________ J Forbes. Lani 164 [Trustee (partial term) Hill, Shawn P. 156 - « | 4196 _____________ ] "] [Treasurer . .Buckowing, Debra K. (Republican) 4182 ^nistees^four Campbell, Curtis (Republican) DeMaagd, Ross (Republican) Ra'righ, Sandra L. (Republican) Selleck, Kim (Independent) । 3608 3609 3590 1787 WOODLAND TOWNSHIP____________ Supervisor________________________ Mackenzie. Jeff (Republican) 946 | 950 1496 1495 2343 2386 Constable Buist, Dennis [Clerk Hill, Shawna [Clerk Stanton, Nancy (Republican) ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP__________ Supervisor___________________ Rook, Thomas J. (Republican) Knowles, Larry (Republican) VanHouten, Dave (Republican) (Trustees - four Willshire, Cindy (Republican) [Treasurer Cole. Ginger (Republican) 2531 City Council Ward 4 (one) McLean. Jacquie Redman, William Winters. Shawn ~ Greenfield, Sandra (Republican) 850 663 809 . Icierk_____________________________ ] Cunningham, Michael S. (Republican) 546 1891 Hawthorne, Robin (Republican) 1267 1205 Library Board Trustee - three Inman, Grcthel Robinson, Georgia Sidney, Eve 2561 City Council Ward 3 (one) Bowers, Donald ----------- ------------- [Clerk [Cleric Carpenter, Brad (Republican) 1,585 Y, 297 n Watson, Larry (Republican) Dowling Public Library millage - passed [supervisor Road milIage - passed .Supervisor [Clerk Babcock, Sheri M. (Republican) YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP_______ Supervisor________________________ Heethuis, Rob (Republican) 1.297 y, 579 n ^SSjj^HARTER TOWNSHIP JOHNSTOWN TOWNSHIP Supervisor Earl. Barbara (Republican) 804 Y. 29? N ---------------- — 848 *-------- - — trustees • two “] 515 1291 Fire, cemetery and township rrwHage - passed Roatl "hprovement millage - passcd •Mc-tse! nk ts inor.ng so lh.s scat wit bo vacant Democrat Shannon Bessette ts running as a wnte~.n to M tho opening [Clerk -------------- ---------Ypma, Penelope (Democrat)“~ [Treasurer 1408 1380 1707 Y, 61 IN 934 --------------------- MXTjnmZnCnary (l’eP1'bl'"n') M'lta. James o.(Repub|ican) ' 1416 [Clerk Jackson, Deborah (Republican) (Treasurer "—-— ----Ryde-Stephen?;^^^ [Trustees - two (’’'■PubPcan) • Linda (Republican) [hope township______________ [Supervisor Peck. Doug (Republican) [Treasurer Durkee. Shawn K. (Republican) "'] [Trustees - two Slater, Mikel (Republican) Steward, Gabriel (independent) ] 961 863 357 [VILLAGE OF NASHVILLE President Kenyon, Mike 1 ‘ 469' Trustees (five) Hartwell, Johnny L. Hodge, Tanett Callton, Mike - write-in candidate* Priddy, Steve - write-in candidate* ‘Wnto-tn results cn? expected to bo announced Faddy. [VILLAGE OF WOODLAND President Martin, Ronald Trustees - four Barry, Arlene Carol Denker, Rick Duits, Kevin Kennedy, John 460 462 144 125 114 121 113 [treasurer ~ Ritchie. Michelle (Republican) [Trustees - two 1370 [Treasurer _____________ I Phillips. Jenee S. (Republican) 962 [Trustees - four ... J Savage. Scott (Democrat) McNally, Timothy B. (Republican) Wetzel, William (Republican) 631 1171 1121 Voters approve township millage renewal requests While the jail and sheriff’s office project was soundly defeated in Barry County, all millage renewal requests in the townships were supported by voters in Tuesday s C1 A'miliage request for Dowling Public Library, which serves both Baltimore and Johnstown townships was approved 1.612-1.038. Baltimore Township voters approved it 650-388. and Johnstown I ownship residents voted 962 ves to 650 no. Pra.rit’ville Township had three nullage renewal requests on the ballot. The police protection ™"“*j prevailed 1297 to 579. the road nullngcL456 lhe fire protection renewal request passed 1.585 to -J . w „ I Township services were combined in a reS request to fund fire. « —ship services.IhMrequest lo , Voters m Orang* re„ewal. which was approved improvement millage 1,207 to 611. School board races at a glance [Delton Kellogg Board of Educatio^Tfo77 IBrandli, Jessica • Jenkins, Craig Manin, Kelli Shooks, Brandy [Thomapple Kellogg Schools b^T~^n Cove. Kristen R. ----- ------Hamming, Anne M. Haney, Donald A. Lovell, Risa Smith, David R. 3296 3116 3342 2969 3889 3560 3130 2178 3278 [Hastings Area School b6ard27jjjjg~----- 1 Haywood, Luke Nickels, Mike Shellenbarger, Elden Tolles, Bradley 6130 5144 3009 4986 [Lakewood Public Schools Board~T^7g~j Brodbeck-Krenz, Jamie Possehn, Kerry Weller, Darrin 1070 1079 849 Partial term (1): McClelland, Melissa Why they voted Greg Chandler Stuff Writer The wait to vote was worth it for Harley Reed, a 23-year-old admin­ istrative assistant for an insurance agency. Her boss gave her the go-ahead to leave work early T uesday after­ noon so she could go vole. She ^nved at the Irving Township Hall Just before 2 p.rn. and it took more than two hours for her to cast her ballot. However, Reed didn’t seem both­ ered by the wait. “lhe (poll) workers were great, nt they need more people checking Voters) in.” she said. “That seems to be what was holding the line up. saw empty booths.” Reed observed that several P°tcntial voters weren’t willing to "‘‘it to cast their ballot. 1 saw several people pull in and the line and turn around and she said. “All of those voles ’natter and they didn’t have the time ° "ait that long to vote.” Voters generally followed scK'ial Stance guidelines as they waited, ,e noticed, and most folks wore ’na.sks. sa’d she voted in favor of ® Proposal to build a new Barry U|°Unly jaij. -phe allocation of for it seemed fair and the ni>’ opinion seems neces- th [Maple Valley Schools Board of Education] Kerffer, Justin 77w trwis fur this race, included six liutc tn ca/Kt.iSih. s. ate expected co lx? announced hntlay This was her second presidential election - and she noticed a lot more participation among her peers casting ballots this time compared to lhe 2016 election. Il’s “astronom­ ically important” for young people to gel out and make their voice heard, Reed said. “A lot of my friends felt like (heir votes wouldn’t count, so (hey didn t vote in the last election.” she added. “And I think they realized, alter the results, how important it is that they could have influenced the last elec­ tion more.” For Reed, the decision was to eschew the two major party candi­ dates in lhe presidential race and cast her ballot for Libertarian Jo Jorgensen. She would like to see the development of a strong third party in this country. . . . “We are conditioned to think it > iiBt the lesser of tuo evil*. I’ve never felt like 1 could really •‘M with a part) because neither ol Un Standard ones capture eve?thin;- I stand for." she said. 1 ■ America sees how many people are actuallv willing to vote for a third party, they’d realize they aren t ."tuck poking between trtoopu^ Tammy Purdum of Middleville didn't have to wait as long as Reed U, cast her ballot. She amwd at the Village Hall about 10:30 a in. and was out the d<x>r 30 minute- later. At first. Purdum had planned lo cast an absentee ballot, but then she heard of a write-in candidate she wanted to vote for and decided to * change her vote. “Because I had signed and sealed the envelope. 1 needed to w rite ’sur­ rendered* and strike through my ; signature.” she said. “They took that envelope and issued me a new ballot to fill out. “They were very understanding and nice about it.” Purdum said that some voters where she waited weren’t as obser vane of social distancing guidelines, “i was a little irritated wilh lhe men standing behind me as they were about 6 inches from me rather than 6 feet.” She said was tom about her deci­ sion on the jail proposal. She con­ sidered herself a ”49-pervent yes” vote at one time, but ultimately decided lo vote no. “I have mixed feelings about our shcritl and how money is being currently spent,” Purdum said. “1 ended up hoping a ‘no’ vote would mean someone could re-cvaluate how the current spending is done before more is spent.” Ihirdum said she took pride in casting her ballot. “I left as 1 always do, feeling accomplished and proud of myself and my country. 1 am just con- ‘ cemcd how people will react if their choice doesn’t win.” ' �12— Thursday, Novemow 5. 2020 — The Hastings Banner TK duo meets in the middle, qualifies for MIS Hastings freshman Caleb LaBoe races to a 25th-place finish Saturday at the Division 2 Regional race hosted by Otsego High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Sports Editor *R$mapple Kellogg senior Jessica Durkee starts fast. Sophomore Emelia MacDonald finishes fast. It added up to times less than a second apart Saturday at the Division 2 Regional race host­ ed by Otsego High School, and spots in the Division 2 Lower Peninsula Cross Country Findh for the duo from the TK varsity team. MacDonald placed 12th in a new personal record lime of 19 minutes 49.48 seconds and Durkee ran her fastest race of the season to place 13th in 19:50.32. Those times put them among lhe seven individual state qualifiers from the regional race. The lop ihree teams and top seven individ­ uals'not on those learns at regional races across the stale last weekend earned spots in this Friday’s D2 Finals al Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn. The TK girls’ team just missed oul on qualify­ ing for the finals, placing fourth just five points behind OK Gold Conference rival Thornapple Kellogg freshman Lucas VanMeter turns towards the finish line at the end of the Division 2 Regional race hosted by Otsego High School Saturday morning. (Photo by Brett Bremer) South Chrisiian (98-103). Grand Rapids Christian won the girls’ regional champion­ ship with 37 points and Otsego was second with 53. It is the second consecutive season of qual­ ifying for the state finals for Durkee. MacDonald missed most of her freshman year with an injury and has worked her way back up to the from of lhe Trojan pack wilh Durkee throughout the fall. “I definitely was struggling for the first mile and a half, bui then I caught up to Jessie and I kind of stayed with her.” MacDonald said. “She pushed me lo lhe finish and we were able to work together, which we haven’t been able to do much this year, which was really cool.” MacDonald was fifth among the seven individual state qualifiers and Durkee sixth. Both finished more than ten seconds ahead of Wayland freshman Ava Makowski who was 15th overall with a personal record time of 20:01.15 which earned her the final slate qual­ ifying spot. TK freshman Holly Veiling was Incumbents keep their Rebecca Pierce Editor Tuesday’s general election may have featured record voter turnout at polling places across Barry’ County. But all those incumbents on the ballot most of whom were uncontcsted and were easily re-elected Tuesday - likely weren’t lhe reason for lhe high turnout, county observers said, Barry County Clerk Pamela Palmer, who has held that office since January 2015 and received 27.234 votes Tuesday in an uncontesled race, said she believes the unprecedented high voter turnout was prompted by passion for a particular candidate. And that candidate likely is at the top of the ticket. While lhe turnout may have surprised some, the unofficial results of Tuesday’s vote in Bany County aren’t surprising to anyone familiar with partisan politics. The tally Wednesday showed the county as squarely in the Republican camp with 23.473 votes for President Donald Trump and Vice President Michael Pence. Joseph Biden and his running mate Kamala Harris received 11,804 votes here. In the U.S. Senate, Republican challenger John James received 23.499 voles lo the 11379 votes incumbent Democrat Gary Peters received. In Michigan, state Rep. Julie Calley. R-Portland. was supported by county voters with 24.870 votes. Democratic challenger Jay Molette had withdrawn from the race, but still received 9.739. Barry County voters said no to the request for $25 million tax levy for a jail/sheriff’s office, but they were generous as far as statewide ballot proposals: both requests were approved by county voters: 26588 to 5,655 for Proposal I. which would make changes in how revenue in the state’s park-related funds may be spent; and 28,922 to 3.930 for Proposal 2. an amendment that would dictate the need for a search warrant to obtain a person’s electronic data. On the county level, with few contested races - lhe winners were incumbents, with two exceptions, and Republicans. Register of Deeds Barbara Hurless defeated Democratic challenger Jordan Brehm of Hastings, 23,066 to 10,898. Treasurer Susan VandeCar. also a Republican, defeated Democratic challenger Jennifer Meyer. 23,739 to 10311. Sheriff Dar Leaf had been unopposed in his race, but entered the public spotlight recently for comments about an alleged plot to kidnap lhe governor and ended up provoking opposition. Even so. Leaf was returned to office with 25,466 votes. Drain Commissioner Jim Dull received 26.806 votes. Prosecuting Attorney Julie Nakfoor-Pratt Barry Township clerk calls voter turnout Tuesday ‘unprecedented’ Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Barry Township Clerk Deb Knight said she’d never seen anything like Tuesday. “It wasn’t bad. it was just unprecedent­ ed.” Knight said Wednesday. "People were lined up all day.” In August, township officials had eight voting stations set up. Tuesday, they set up an additional 10 stations to meet the number of voters filing in to cast ballots. People were lined up into lhe adjoining parking area. “We were passing out applications to people standing in line,’’ Knight said. “And then we ran out of pens.” Overall. Barry Township had 1.956 vot­ ers. In 2016. the township had 1.787 voters cast ballots, but they were split between two precincts - one in Delton and one in 1 lickory Comers. Of‘Tuesday’s voleis.988 voted in person, and 968 voted via absentee ballot. One of the biggest things people should know for the future, Knight said, is if they request an absentee ballot, they cannot vote in person until their absentee ballot has been voided. “If you change your mind, it’s OK,” Knight said. “Just don’t throw away >our AV ballot. (Take it] to your clerk, and you, can get it sorted out.” About one mile stands between the Barry Township offices and the sole Barry Township polling location. Knight said that her numerous trips between lhe office and lhe polling location on Election Day put 47 miles on her vehicle. ‘Tin definitely going to get more voters in the next presidential election,” Knight said. ‘Thank you to all the voters that did come out and waited in lines. “There has never been such a high turn­ out as there was this year.” Hastings freshman Jonah Teed closes in on the finish line just ahead of Allegan junior Logan Vernla al the Division 2 Regional hosted by Otsego High School Saturday morning. (Photo by Brett Bremer) just over nine seconds behind Makowski, in 18th place with a personal record lime of 20:10.21 - eighth among girls from the teams that did not qualify for the finals. “Before the race we talked about surging around comers, and I was trying to do that. I know (Emelia) is really good at speeding up at the end. so I was like I need to stick with her,” Durkee said. Durkee placed 83rd at the state finals in 2019. and said she’ll look forwards lo trying to beat that finish Friday. She’ll plan to work together with her teammate at MIS. Grand Rapids Christian junior Madelyn Frens was the individual champion in the girls’ race with a time of 18:02.05 Plainwell junior Mackenzie Hill ran anew PR to place second in 18:55.63. Her sophomore teammate Hastings junior Allison Teed races along Saturday at the Division 2 Regional hosted by Otsego High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Grace Pettit was third in 18:56.12. Grand Rapids Christian had girls place fourth, fifth and sixth followed across lhe finish line by Otsego’s top three runners. Plainwell was fifth in the day’s team stand­ ings with 117 points, ahead of Wayland 143 and Hamilton 170. Hastings had three girls competing. Junior Carissa Strouse led the Saxon pack with a 24th-place lime of 20:32.12. Allison Teed, another junior, was 38th in 21:35.35. Senior Aura Wahl-Piotrowski scored a time of 22:0452 to place 48th overall. There were four Saxon boys and five TK boys running in their regional race Saturday as well after making it through the pre-regional round of the state tournament. Hastings freshman Caleb LaBoe was lhe fastest among that group, placing 25th in 17:3352. TK had two guys run their fastest times ever. Junior Matthew Smith was 38th overall Thornapple Kellogg sophomore Emelia MacDonald winds her way around the course at the Division 2 Regional hosted by Otsego Saturday. MacDonald qualified for the Division 2 Lower Peninsula State Finals with her finish in the race, one of two TK ladies to do so. (Photo by Brett Bremer) in 18:06.02 and sophomore Aidan Buist was 61st in 19:1022. TK also had senior Brennan Lutz run his fastest race of the season to place 40th in 18:07.17. Trojan freshman Lucas VanMeter was 48th in 18:29.27 and senior Howie Frizzell 60th in 19:09.14. Hastings had freshman Riley Shults 45lh in 18:1755, freshman Jonah Teed 57th in 18: 5425 and senior Claten Patten 67th in 19: 56.30. Otsego senior Colin Mulder cruised to lhe win in the boys’ race with a time of 15:4051. Allegan senior Connor Harlan was the run­ ner-up in a personal record time of 16:16.38. Grand Rapids Chrisiian had junior Ben Zwart third in 16:19.64. Mulder led the host Bulldogs lo the region­ al team title. They finished with 28 points. Grand Rapids Christian was second with 75 points, ahead of Allegan 90. South Christian 97, Plainwell 157. West Michigan Aviation 159, Hamilton 164 and Wayland 176. two newcomers join county board drew 27,108 votes. Surveyor Brian Reynolds collected 26,920 voles. On the county board of commissioners, the same rule held true. Incumbents and Republicans were relumed to office. A few challengers were defeated Tuesday so the only change in faces on the board next year will come as a result of individual commissioners’ decisions to step down. In District 1, Howard Gibson beat Democratic opponent Martha Reyff-Banash, 2.656to 1,627. In District 2. newcomer Catherine Getty, a Republican, won with 4,042, taking the scat vacated by Dan Parker, who was elected to post of Thomapple Township supervisor next year. A challenger. Cody Hayes, received 1559 votes despite a decision to abandon the race and endorse Getty. In District 3, David Jackson was returned to office with 3584 votes. In District 4, Jon Smelker received 4.169 votes in his re-election race against U.S. Taxpay er candidate Rich Burtts, who had 508 votes. In District 5, Ben Geiger returned to office with 3,433 votes. In District 6. Vivian Lee Conner was re-elected with 3.857 votes. And in District 7, wilh Chairwoman Heather Wing stepping off the board, newcomer Bruce D. Campbell, also a Republican, was elected to serve with 3,678 votes. Rutland Towmshap will have one new trustee Sophie Bates Staff Writer Robin Hawthorne has served as Rutland Township clerk for 17 years. Of all the elections she has overseen, Hawthorne said Tuesday had one of the highest voter turnouts she’s ever witnessed. " Oul of 3.399 registered voters in the township. 2.629 cast ballots Tuesday, which amounts to a 77-percent voter turnout. In 2016,2249 residents cast ballots out of 3.072 registered voters, equaling a 73 percent voter turnout. ’Die voting booths were full the entire day. Hawthorne said, attributing the increased turnout to media campaigns encouraging people to vote. “I think it was media. It was a controversial race, and I think (for) a lot of it was there was a lot of media about voting.” Hawthorne said. “I saw not so many candidate commercials and more voting commercials, and that reallyenergized people to gu oul and vote.” With this year’s increase in absentee voting — 1.323 absentee ballots cast in 2020 as compared to 556 in 2() 16 - Hawthorne said she wasn ’ t expecting to see as many voters i * the polls 'Tuesday. She estimated she’d have 700 to 800 in-person voters: instead she had I3C Despite an unexpected increase in in-person voting and having fe ter booths - for social distancing Hawthorne said lines at lhe polls were minimal iheir largest lasting 15 to 20 minutes. ’ 1 lawthome said she w... impressed with the number of volers a' in., masks and praclicing social diMa,lcL ‘ 1 *»s very pr()Ull passed with my voters that came in. ,re wearing masks and they didn’t hav* , fee asked to, Hawthorne said. -| w 1 . .. surprised, and was really happy ,hj l(X,k down and everybody in line <„> and that just made me happy. । ’ that they were bemg nice to their nejJS'anJ doing what •hey were supposed,, The zkbsent Voter Board, which Gene Hall has assisted in three Rutland Township elections, was instrumental to running a smooth election Hawthorne said. The AVCB counts absentee ballots throughout Election Day. Not having to count lhe absentee ballots took a heavy burden off poll workers who had to count all in-person ballots, Hawthorne said. “Il went really, really well.” Hawthorne said. “They (the AV Counting Board) arc a godsend.” Hawthorne also praised the poll workers. “Wearing a mask for 14 hours is rough,” Hawthorne said. ”1 have awesome workers. They arc rock stars.” “For the numbers that we had and the COVID and all the other stuff going on, I actually thought it went really well,” Hawthorne concluded. Township Supervisor Larry Watson, Hawthorne, Treasurer Sandra Greenfield and trustees Brenda Bellmore, Sandra James and Matt Spencer were reelected in uncontcsted races Tuesday. Newcomer Gene Hall will replace Marlin Walters, who did not run for re-election; Walters’ term expires Nov. 20. Hall, who spoke with the Hastings Banner for the October election guide, has not held public office before, but currently serves chairman of the township’s board of review and the zoning board of appeals. “My desire lo be involved in local government and to help in any way my background, experience and skills allow, has led me to the decision to run for Rutland Township Board Trustee,” Hall said in October. "I would like to see more Rutland Township residents active in the township government process. Currently, the monthly­ township board meetings are attended by very few residents. By the time I join the township board November 2020,1 will have a website active as a conduit for exchange of ideas with township residents and as a way to keep them informed ot issues that they may want to be involved in.” Wednesday, Hall said the website has been finished - complete with an informational page, contact page and what will be monthly and weekly updates. The website will launch once Hall takes office, he said. I think one of the things that I want lo do nghl away is to get the voters more involved m the township, Hall said. “Just the general day-to-day voters, they just don’t show up to the meetings. and I’d like to get them more involved m what’s happening there as one of eamjtiJ.’’ ' WaS 8°ing ,0 d0 in he safo'arfacins lhc*ownship. for wb’ ‘nillion new - *l» implementation of^a "fopM1’’”'’*~ uuvugnout the township. Utere ""iHlt"^ Ihat I’m the new guy e^and b „S:“d; ?‘n‘ real,y P1^ and r. 1« H Ihc vt>'^ voted forme both feet." "S orwanl 10 jumping in with �■ ' -i Page 13 Thq Hastings Banner — Thursday. November 5, 2020 DK/TK/HHS girls finish with two wins in triple dual Brett Hremcr Jl’'"'''^Hior Hastings varsity girK?°m?Pple Kc,,<W team closed ot a 4 . 2“ iuld divinS Conference Tie, Ila..T "u' OK Rainbow visitinc G J o -7“ls w"h a v'«‘>rv »'cr ThUtM1V "’C while uldinn IT . and RecrcationCenter, is well nt iho\ K|l°? OVerlhc Ionia Bulldogs asw Ila Uhc topic dual in the pool, Th, n..., nrc^n. hIvX’*URm, W8S a makc uP »WO Ctdeo^l ;eh1edu,cd DKTOC/HHS m . r> C’ri Sch<«ssel asked the Bulldogs to mm e thctr match-up to Ihis |ast „wk of regular season to avoid a busy first week to ^“aSOn baCk in September. The meet between Lmon and the DK/TK/HHS girls was onginally canceled because of a COID•JS^e' b m Uas haPP’,y ai,dcd to the slate with lhe Bulldogs. “We just started [our taper] this week. This broke it up by one day. The conference meet is I nday and Saturday (Nov. 6-7). Usually I do a two-week taper. We still have the twoweck taper, minus one day. The rest that they get from this meet, that counts for something too. DKT K/HHS head coach Carl Schoessel said. Tlte DK/TK/HHS girls scored a 119-62 win over Union and a 110-63 victory over the Ionia girls, with DK/TK/HHS girls winning 11 of the 12 events. The DK/TK/HHS girls head into the con­ ference meet, which will be back at the CERC Nov. 6-7, tied atop the league standings with the Wayland girls. “It is just a question of who is going to do it,” Schoessel said. “We have been talking about this season being dedicated to Lydia [Cole] and we have said a few' times amongst ourselves, wouldn’t it be great to win a cham­ pionship.” A few seniors were able to score wins in their final dual in their home pool Thursdaj for DK/TK/HHS, including Aubrey Evans who teamed with Cadence VanOoy, Ellen Shults and Preslee Hall who won the 200-yard medley relay in 2 minutes 15:48 to open the night's racing. Senior Juliann Meeker was a part of the 200-yard freestyle relay victory by DK/TK/HHS. joining Sophie Marcukaitis. Anna Haywood and Abby Marcukaitis for a winning time of 1:49.44. Dalace Jousma was the lone DK/TK/HHS senior to win an individual event, taking the 500-yanl freestyle in 6:09.06. Sophomore diver Eve Bishop led a 1-2-3 sweep of lhe top diving spots for DK/TK/ HHS, scoring 155.95 points in the win and qualifying for the Division 1 diving rcgionals in the process. TJ Myers was second with a score of 146.90 and Maelea Martin third at Delton Kellogg/Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings senior Aubrey ynns competes in the opening heat of the 50-yard freestyle Thursday during her teani s victories over Ionia and Grand Rapids Union in tri at the CERC in Hastings.(Photo by Brett Bremer) DK/TK/HHS freshman Lucy Barnard nears her final turn in the 100-yard breast­ stroke during the tri meet with Grand Rapids Union and Ionia Thursday at the CERC in Hastings. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 143.40. Sophie Marcukaitis, Abby Marcukaitis and Cadence VanOoy won two individual events cacli for DK.TK'HHS. Cadence took the 200yard freest) Ic in 2:19.87 and the 100-yard backstroke in 1:1423 .Abby won the 100-yard DK/TK/HHS freshman diver TJ Myers holds her pike position above the pool during her team’s meet with Ionia and Grand Rapids Union Thursday in Hastings. (Photo by Breit Bremer) freestyle in 55.69 seconds and lhe 50-yard freestyle in 25.02. Sophie won the 200-yard individual medley in 2:27.47 and the 100yard breaststroke in 1:15 19. Ionia sophomore Madeline McGee was the 100-yard butterfly champ in 1:08.84, with . DK/TK/HHS sophomore Preslee Hall placing second in the race in 1:1051. Ordway to run for second stat® medal at MIS Saturday Delton Kellogg Micah Ordway ran lhe fast­ est race of his senior season to qualify for the Division 3 Lower Peninsula Slate Finals for the third time in his high school running career. Ordway placed sixth at the Division 3 Regional nice at Allendale High School Saturday with a time of 17 minutes 14.71 seconds to earn a spot among the seven indi­ vidual stale qualifiers from lhe race. Ordway qualified for lhe stale finals as a sophomore, but was unable to compete, and when he final­ ly got his first chance on the course at MIS last fall he earned himself a slate medal with a top 30 finish. Delton Kellogg juniors Halena Phillips and Aubrey Aukerman were both chasing slate spots Saturday, and ran the fastest races of their varsity careers [until dropping their PRs even further al the Barry County Meet Monday], but ultimately came up short. The top three teams and lop seven individ­ uals not on those teams earned spots in the Division 3 finals at MIS Saturday. The DK boys’ team was seventh and the girls’ team eighth at the regional meet. Calvin Christian won the girls’ champion­ ship with 39 points, ahead of Covenant Christian 64, Kent City 91, Western Michigan Christian 123. Black River 124. Montague 128. Saranac 152 and Delton Kellogg 190? Phillips led the DK girls with a 28lh-place time of 21:31.00. Aukerman was 29lh in 21:33.07. The Panther team also had sophomore Kasey Kapteyn 51st in 23:38.74, freshman Brea Chandler 55th in 24:20.08, sophomore Joelle While 56lh in 24:21.24 and sophomore Lilyanna Sinclair 63rd in 27:29.82. Chandler. Kapteyn and Sinclair all set new personal records Saturday. Kapteyn went even faster Monday at the Barry County Meet. Western Michigan Christian junior Abby VanderKooi was the individual champion, hitting the finish line in 17:04.17. She was more than two minutes in front of the run­ ner-up. Kent City senior Layla Martini who hit the finish line in 19:1553. Calvin Christian took the boys’ champion­ ship Saturday too with 41 points. Covenant Christian was second with 65 points, ahead of Saranac 79, Montague 123, Black River 127, Kent City 129, Delton Kellogg 154 and Western Michigan Chrisiian 172. Calvin Christian had three guys in the lop four including senior Luke Witlvliet who was the individual champion in 16:44.34. Sophomore teammate Nathan Jenkins was second in 16:48.33. Saranac senior Grayson Rasmus was third in 16:52.13. DK sophomore Hector Jimenez was the second guy to finish for his team, placing 34th in 18:54.13. Junior Austin Blocker was 39th in 19:00.04. sophomore Micah Martin 43rd in 19: 0-7.38 and sophomore Isaac Shepard 60th in 20:19.87. Shepard set a new personal record with his time. Freshman Austin Bagley was sixth for DK in 64lh overall with a time of 20:36.64 and sophomore Brett Harsevoort was 66th in 20: 43.74. Did you know that you can read The Hastings Banner Lion freshman earns spot at MIS Brett Bremer Sports Editor Maple Valley freshman Lilly Faurol is going to the stale finals. Faurot earned a regional medal with her J3th-place lime of 21 minutes 7.1 seconds at lhe Division 3 Regional hosted by DeWm Saturday. She was among the seven individu­ al state qualifiers from the race who will compete al the Division 3 Uiwer Peninsula CrossCountiyHnalsat Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn Saturday. "She has had an amazing season, starting out well and only getting stronger each race she ran" Maple Valley head coach Tiffany Bllkelysaid. -I saw so much fire in her today S ran such an aggressive raec^ geu.ng up in front and ran Die race she needed lo H* r » n new person record with her Faurot set i P |ha|) she was time, finishing 12 spots mgi ’■•‘n^d going im« «l>e n'^am surprise thaI It definil y P f Benson, but we didn't expect at the Sian o that she slowly worked tow.irds an coach Blakely said. ninninp ShC Wi,S nWi She was joined in the Saturday in DeWit • frL.shman Nadia girls’ regional race b) h and scnior Martin, who placed 43M mH. Curtis Walker from the al,Eressive race Blakely said Mttrt'f r h too, and managed to 1 pre-rcgional girls that hud bested her at the pr I race a ueck • | is raCe with a lime Walker placed 46th m « of 19:16.7. “Walker really went for a great time today The course was a little hillier than lhe pre-regional race, but the weather was perfect. We discussed race strategy to gel another PR for him, and he worked really hard to get to it. He was on track for his first two miles, and just lost a little bit in the last mile. “I was really impressed with his effort, he constantly was working to pass runners and ended up placing better than he was predicted to finish.” The top three teams and top seven individ­ uals not on those teams al the regional race earned spots in the upcoming state champion­ ships. St. Louis won the boys’ regional cham­ pionship wilh 43 points, ahead of Ithaca 54 New Ijothrop 97. Pewamo-Westphalia 121 Chesaning 150. Montrose 154, Bath 161 Potterville 165 and Laingsburg 178. New Ixithrop senior Carson Hersch was the individual regional champion in the boys’ race with a time of 16:01.18. Ithaca had three guys in the top five, led by senior Braxton Uuney who was the runner-up in 16:14.61. St. Louis had four guys in the first eight fin­ ishers. led by senior Keegan Honig who set a new PR wilh his fourth-place time of 16:33.72. Ithaca won lhe girls’ race with 30 points, ahead of St. Louis 46. Pewamo-Westphalia 64, New Lothrop 128, Perry 143, Montrose 169, Ovid-Elsie 172 and Laingsburg 187 Ithaca junior Lani Bloom was lhe individu­ al champion in 17:44.42 and her junior team­ mate Rachael Sierakowski set a new PR with her third-place lime of 19:56.06. St. I>ouis junior Libby Mundcrlog was the runner-up in 19:28.26. in an ELECTRONIC and PRINT edition? iKU.Banner [X?) '' WEEKLY UPDATES NEWS SPORTS COURT NEWS LEGALS ‘*r* yp* >o MORE A. t hIstocsBaNNER A 1351 NM-43 Hwy Hastings, Ml 49058 i J (269)945-9554 * www.hastingsbanner.com �Page M _ Thursday. November 5. 2020 - The Hastings Banner HIGH SCHOOL FDOTBRLL PLRVOFFS L_. _________________ ■ - - --------- turnovers still a bugaboo, but TK trounces Knights Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Thomapple Kellogg varsity football team is into the district finals. . The Trojans scored a 56-14 win over visit­ ing Kenowa Hills in the first round of the MHSAA postseason tournament inside Bob White Stadium in Middleville last Friday, and •the TK athletic department announced early Wednesday afternoon that the Trojans’ district .semifinal opponent. Zeeland West, is forfeit’ing this weekend's district semifinal ballgame because of issues related to COVID-19. The Trojans didn’t get to square off against new OK Gold Conference foe Kenowa Hills previously this fall because of the late start to .the regular season. “Coach came and he told us that they said they’re the hardest hitting team in the confer­ ence. and we wanted to show them that obviJrosK it is us,” TK senior linebacker Jake J^eJong said. “Obviously, we .showed them Jiat. .. *I<“We put the smack on them." DeJong led the TK defense with six tackles >h the night, including one for a loss. Alex ^tmnema'had five tackles, including a couple *i< the Knights’ backfield. Z^The Trojan defense prepped for a Wing-T JlJX for the second time this season in the leadThomapple Kellogg senior running back Ryan Holmes tries to fight off a tackle Jbp to the contest with the Knights. That attempt by Kenowa Hills’ Andrew Bradley during their Division 3 District opener in Jbffensc is what they faced in the first week of Middleville Friday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) *jlie season at Cedar Springs, The Trojans built a 27-0 lead in a turnover ter. Middleton hit his first three extra-point * “We have just been repping it all week Jong. Coach has been preaching read our filled first half against the Knights. TTie kicks to give TK a 21 -0 lead after one quarter. Senior running back Ryan Holmes scored Wads, and that is what we did and came out Trojans recovered four Knight fumbles and ‘with the win,” DeJong said. “Now. we’ve got picked off one pass in the first half alone. on a powerful 48-yard run up the home side­ TK’s Austin Rounds, Samuel McKeown. line in the final minute of the first hall to •a really good offense coming our way.’’ -.“They flew around. They came to play. Matthew Middleton and Carter West grabbed stretch TK’s lead lo 27-0. The lead grew to 34-0 when Cole -They were locked in,” TK head coach Jeff Kenowa Hills fumbles, and Cole Shoobridge T)ock said of his defenders. “They had a great had the one interception late in the second Shoobridge, taking over at quarterback for Iweek of preparation. They matched the phys­ quarter. starter Reese Garbrecht in the second, scored The Trojans shared the defensive load and on a two-yard run three and a half minutes icality and they did a heck of a job staying true to their reads. In a game like this, with the scoring Friday night. Mitchell Middleton into the second half and then booled the extra­ offense, discipline is crucial. Flying did tally the first two touchdowns, on runs of point kick himself. He not only took over for Kind and being able to play physical is awe­ 11 and 19 yards three seconds apart on the Garbrecht. but took over the kicking and punt­ some.” game clock in the opening quarter. The ing duties with Middleton nursing an injury'. . The 5-1 Zeeland West Dux were lhe lop Knights fumbled the kickoff after his first TD Another Shoobridge I’D run. from four yards seeded team in Division 3’s Region 1, District and he ran into the end zone again on the away, pushed lhe TK lead to 41-0 minutes 1. East Grand Rapids hosts Holland in what is Trojans’ very next snap. later. Dylan Jousma added a two-yard touch­ now lhe district’s lone semifinal match-up Matthew Middleton got to play a little QB down run in the final minute of that first quar­ for the Trojans late in tig ballgame too. Coach Friday night................. ; ■ Thornapple Kellogg senior Samuel McKeown shows off the football after recovering a Kenowa Hills' fumble during the first half of Friday night’s Trojan victory in the open­ ing round of the Division 3 state tournament in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Dock was happy to get as many players into the ballgame as possible. TK tacked on a 12-yard touchdown run by McKeown late in the third quarter and a 16-yard touchdown run by Trenton Farrow in lhe final minute of the contest. TK outgained the Knights 339 yards to 194 on the night. Middleton finished with 19 rushcs for 114 yards. I lolmes had three carries for 69 yards and McKeown chipped in eight rush­ es for 54 yards. Coach Jeff Dock was also happy to see Ryaan Podbcvsek run hard late in the game. Podbevsek finished wilh four carries for 38 yards. In all. TK had 11 differ­ ent guys rush the football. The Trojans weren’t perfect with the ball themselves, losing two fumbles and an inter­ ception in the first half too. : : ■ c •: :■.......... Saxons thump Thre® lowrs 5M Brett Bremer Sports Editor On most evenings, five touchdowns is enough. The Saxons scored that many in the first quarter Friday night. The Hastings varsity football team opened the 2020 Division 4 stale tournament with a 58-0 victory over visiting Three Rivers inside , Baum Stadium nt Johnson Field. Hastings led 33-0 after one quarter thanks to a pair of 20-yard touchdown runs by sophomore full­ back Robby Slaughter and touchdown runs of 80, 92 and 73 yards by junior halfback TJ Russell. The 6-1 Saxons will be at home again Friday for their Division 4 District Semifinals, hosting a Paw Paw (5-2) team that defeated Otsego 44-7 Friday night in its opening round match-up. The other District 28 semifinal match-up this weekend pits top-seeded Edwardsburg against a Vicksburg squad that edged Plainwell 17-12 last Friday. Russell took lhe first hand-off of the ball­ game against the Three Rivers Wildcats 80 yards for a touchdown. The score was 45-0 at the half after a oneyard TD run by Mason Denton and a two-yard touchdown run by Lanny Tcunessen in the second quarter. Slaughter scored on a 52-yard run in the third quarter and Kaiden Shumway added the Saxons’ final touchdown on a 12-yard run with 9:45 to go in the ballgame. Shumway also booted the extra point kick following his final TD. Hastings dominated on both sides of the ball. The Saxon offense amassed 585 yards and allowed Three Rivers just 35 yards on 36 offensive plays. Russell finished the night with five rushes for 264 yards and three touchdowns. Slaughter had ten carries for 122 yards and three touch­ downs. Tcunessen rushed nine times for 78 yards and Dan Harp added eight carries for 58 yards. Denton completed both his pass attempts for 30 yards, a 17-yarder lo Harp and a 13- yardcr to Russell. Corbin Ulrich led the Saxon defense with five total tackles. Tcunessen and Victor Ramirez recovered Wildcat fumbles for lhe Saxons. Six victories is the most by a Saxon varsity team since 2012, the team’s last appearance in lhe stale playoffs The victory over the Wildcats is Hastings’ first playoff victory since 2007. 6 w^R2VTKS ■ The Saxons’ Matt Thompson works to haul down Three Rivers’ ballcarrier Ethan Crooks during their Division 4 District opener inside Baum Stadium at Johnson Field in Hastings Friday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Delton Kellogg wins big at Bronson; gets Schoolcraft again There were a lot of lopsided scores across lhe state Friday put there weren l a lot of those where the Underdogs” came out on top. u i>choH Kellogg-.. arsity football leiun one of the |ott ’ s . |tf score a victor), and it was a decisive 1 he 1’andiem pulled out a 40-18 win at h . in the opening round Hastings sophomore fullback Robby Slaughter runs by Three Rivers' Ethan Crooks during their Division 4 District opener at Hastings High School Friday night. (Photo by Perry Hardin) tory gives (he b ‘\^rs a second shot at Southwestern Confe«hce Valley Division foe s^,|Cnift "'e Semifinals this Friday at 7 pan. The Schoolcraft Fagks bested lhe Panthers 33-7 in the final week of the regular season, and followed that up with a 54-6 thrashing ol Galesburg-Augusta last Friday in their first playoff game. Bronson fumbled the opening kick-off away to the Panthers Friday and Delton Kellogg marched right down the field for a 28-yard touchdown run by Ricky Ramsey. It was lhe first of four touchdown runs tor the Panther back, and his shortest one of the night. Bronson answered with u good drive of its own u> ue things up at 6-6. l he close ballgame didn’t last long as the an lets quickly tallied two unanswered touchdowns including a three-yard touchn>n y tluarterhack Payton Smoczynski Rams w u 5‘??ard nin b> Vinccnt Quick 93 v >rd m°U d ‘“ld " 4<)'-‘‘r'1 TD nl"> a Panth^s’lM a,ud “ 44 y,ml 1D n)n fw lhe • Mlhets later m the ballgame. �The Hastings Bennet — Thursday. November 5.2020 — Page 15 Lions celebrate coach as final season winds down I A. ■ • * wapie valleys Emma Pierce hits an attack as Portland St. Patrick’s Lydia Meredith tries to protect her side of the net Wednesday at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Lions have celebrated their dynamic duo one after another, with senior setter Trista Medina hitting the 2,000 assist mark and Maple Valley varsity volleyball coach Sarah Carpenter watches from the bench as senior outside hitter Keilyn Carpenter hitting her team takes on Hastings at its tri in Nashville Wednesday evening. Carpenter the 2,000 kill mark. It was a bit more of a bittersweet celebra­ coached her final match on the Lions’ home floor Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) tion Thursday as the Maple Valley varsity volleyball program paused to honor head coach Sarah Carpenter at her final home “I didn’t even know what a libero was,” she volleyball players Tina Wcstendorp, Burd and match of her final regular season. Plans arc said. Olivia Ricketts and eventually realizing that for coach Carpenter and her husband Bryan Former players, former athletic director those girls she was looking up to were all Carpenter to spend their falls four the next Duska Brumm, current athletic director looking up to her mother. four years traveling around watching Keilyn Landon Wilkes, assistant coach Hmara Burd Being a coach or a mom doesn't stop after and the Wayne State University Women’s and Kcilyn were among those who were a part high school. Volleyball program. "As long as 1 can remember, 12 years, there of the ceremony. Carpenter took over the program in 2009 Coach Carpenter called the opportunity to have been girls that just show up,” Keilyn and guided a talented squad to the Class C coach Keilyn the past four varsity seasons said. "I wake up and they’re asleep on my State Quarterfinals in 2010. Coach Carpenter was hands down. 100 percent, die greatest couch, or we're at their weddings, or we're said she had no business being a varsity vol­ honor of her life. there a few days after they have a baby. They leyball coach at the time. Keilyn remembered looking up to varsity come back. I think that speaks volumes. It is HIGH SCHOOL FDOTBRLL PLAYOFFS State-ranked Raiders handle Vikings in Portland Brett Bremer Sports Editor ‘fhe Raiders led from start to finish Friday night. Portland’s varsity football team scored a 51-7 victory over visiting Lakewood in the opening round of the Division 5 state tourna­ ment. Garrett Stank scored the Vikings lone touchdown, on a 74-yard run late in the third quarter that cut the Raiders’ lead to 45-7 at the time. Stank had four rushes for 86 yards on the night. Viking quarterback Jayce Hansen was 7-of-19 passing for 83 yards. "We’re not Portland. That is where we’d like to be some day, but we’re not there yet,” said Lake wood head coach Matt Mark wart. "There are a lot of teams that aren't at Portland’s level,” he added. “We push getting faster all year, coming off the ball faster. Playing every play. They’re a very disciplined team as far as they all do their jobs every play. every down. Their running backs run hard every play. They are a machine. If something bad happens they don’t gel down.” The Vikings weren’t able to make too many bad things happen for the Raiders. Sawyer Stocpkcr did intercept a Red Raider pass and Martin Hollern picked up a Raider fumble. Markwart said one of lhe highlights of the bailgame was getting to see Hollern, a senior center who is playing both ways this fall, working hard lo advance the football. The Raiders led the bailgame 14-0 after one quarter and 31-0 at the half. Hollern’s fumble recovery nearly allowed the Vikings to cut into that Raider lead. The Lakewood team moved lhe ball towards the end zone before lhe Raiders intercepted a long Viking pass at the goal-line. Less than two minutes into the ballgame the Raiders got the game’s opening points on a 49-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Haden Getchell to Trevor Williams. Portland then quickly added a 43-yard touchdown run by Reis Phillips. Trent Trierwieler started the second quarter scoring with a two-yard touch­ down run for the Raiders. Cadcn Galey added a 25-yard touchdown run and Cameron Roof drilled a field goal before the end of the first half. “The kids never quit. They played hard on both sides of the ball,” Markwart said. "We made them turn lhe ball over twice. We turned the ball over to them too. But we played hard tonight and I’m proud of them. We came through lhe season and didn’t miss a game, didn’t have to have any kids sit out because of COVID or anything like that.” Ellie Minard scored the Vikings’ seventh point of lhe night on an extra-point kick. Markwart said it has been nice this fall having a kicker who works exclusively on that job. Defensively Friday night, Stank led the Vikings with 11 tackles and Denny Sauers added seven. Lions reach finals of special 8-player postseason Brett Bremer Sports Editor -rhe Mons arc one win away from the big X‘S W varsity football team will meat. Kick-off is .............5 P-T2 6 victory at Maple Valley .j we<;n lo advance in Vandereook Lake "" oun>an>ent. what turned into a f eh firbI h.llf The Mons by quarterback on a three-yard tou . tD pass from Blaze Sensiba “dT£j.jjlirbans and then Sensiba to a second half Uprped "’l a 3Lyard touchdown run by semor safety and a 31 ya Heckathom. running back Hug d up, lhl\ is the -Our defense really hM Iua)ly third straight wee j head coach done the job. MaP M^ncM£‘^rc getting aligned right. ^0 they know what they were supposed to do. ’Die third thing is the big thing, they’re start­ ing to trust each other and starting lo trust the coaches. They finally trust what it is we’re trying to get them to do. We’re playing fast because of it. We’re by no means a fast foot­ ball team, but when you watch us play we’re playing fast. Reading and reacting.” The Lion defense recorded its safety late in the third quarter after a nice punt by Owen Bailey put Vandereook Lake back at its own tlirce-yard-line. James Wisner was credited with the two-point tackle in the end zone, and Jesse Deppe. Proctor-Burhans and Tyler Rose were all there in on lhe play. "This is lhe third game in a row where we had a safety. This is the third game in a row where we played field position and we reaped the benefits of it.” coach Martin said. Vandereook Lake came into the ballgame having scored 70,54 and 50 points in its final three games of the regular season. The Lions limited the Jayhawks to just 48 rushing yards all night, only 176 total yards, and just lour first downs. Deppe had a team-high seven lackies> Heckathom had five. Wisner recovered two fumbles and Bailey one. and Sensiba inter­ cepted a Jayhawk pass, the Lions also suc­ cessfully recovered an on-M(fc kick tQ possession. Offensively. H^0"'«nied .he load again with 22 rushes for U7 yards got to toss three passes, going 3-for-3 for >1 yards. Sensiba comped lw0 ()f f ~ for another 40 yards. P Dillon Jorgenson had a biK ground for lhe Lions too, f 86 yards. Rose added two ‘ tor Heckathom added a tw°-Poini _ • his team’s first touchdown of lowing the Lions’ next three point a|. J’aine’ hut unsuccessful. r lnes werc Rase also contributed down tun on a fake punt and ’8 ^ourth kick and punt returns for the Linn 0,1 The Saxons’ Lexi Herblet slams the ball down towards the Portland St. Patrick side during her team’s loss to the Shamrocks Wednesday at Maple Valley High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) not just four years.” As Burd closed the ceremony, coach Carpenter heard hear say, “okay, (hat was awesome now' let’s go play ball.” Sarah was hugging Keilyn. whispering that same phrase into her ear at the same moment. Keilyn powered lhe Lions to a 25-18, 25-12, 25-15 win over visiting Parchment by slamming 30 kills in the three sets. Averaging double digit kills per set in a match was some­ thing down on the list of goals for this season for Keilyn. “These girls were just firing on all cylin­ ders,” coach Carpenter said. “The synergy was there all night long for all of them. They gelled well as a team.” Ashlyn Wilkes added seven kills and Medina five. • Keilyn had four aces and Lexi Booher, Olivia Roush and Medina had three each. while Wilkes chipped in two and Holly Rosin one. Medina had 33 assists and Roush three to go along wilh a team-high 16 digs. Keilyn finished with 11 digs and Medina nine. Wilkfcs and Emma Pierce bad six digs each ;ind Booher chipped in five. Maple Valley was set to begin the postsea­ son in the Division 3 District Semifinals Wednesday, taking on Delton Kellogg. The winner of thal match will play in the district final Thursday (Nov. 5) at Comstock High School. The Maple Valley girls took two wins Wednesday on their home court, knocking oft’ Portland St. Patrick 25-13, 25-22 and then Hastings 25-16, 26-15. Portland St. Patrick also bested Hastings in two sets Wednesday. Keilyn had 30 kills in those four sets,'as well as six aces and seven digs. Roush had a team-high 24 digs. Medina put up 39 assists. Lakeview tops Trojans in DI district volleyball opener* Battle Creek Lakeview upended the Thomapple Kellogg varsity volleyball team in the opening round of the Division 1 state tour­ nament Monday in Middleville. The Spartans scored a 25-20, 25-21,25-20 win over the Trojans. "We really hung with them and battled point for point,” TK head coach Tia Cross said. “We came back from an eight-point defi­ cit to tic the game and push the momentum in our favor. Lakeview just hit a few more open spots than we did.” Chloe Teachout and Tyah Jefferson had seven kills each for the Trojans. Ellie Shoobridge addd four kills as well as a team- high three blocks. Moriah Sprague and Trisfai Cross had three kills each. A Claudia Lems put up 21 assists for TK. Lindsey White finished her season for the Trojans with a perfect 100 percent serve per­ centage on 73 attempts. She was one of five with TK ladies at 100 percent from the service line on (he night Monday, joining Trislen, Sprague. Shoobridge and Teachout. Battle Creek Lakeview was set to face Gull Lake in the district semifinals last night back in Middleville. Caledonia and Baltic Creek Central were also to meet in the district semi­ finals Wednesday. The district final is planned for Saturday at 10 a m. in Middleville. ' Vikings win home finale, district opener, too Brett Bremer Sports Editor The kikewood Vikings, ranked number one in the state in Division 2, finished oft a 35-2 regular season wilh a three-set win over lhe Okemos varsily volleyball team at Lake wood High School Thursday. Lakewood hcad coach Cameron Row land said his girls bounced back and phi} cd very well Thursday after suffering ju>t ib sectsnd defeat of the season Tuesday evening. "It was the best we have served ami |>a»«l in a while." Rowland said. had 15 mes and passed 70 percent perleu. Zayda Kruger led the V.k.ngs w. h hv el those 15 accs. Sophie Duns and 1 aic Wolverton had thrce each. Skylar Bump and Maradith O’Gorman had two aces apicu. The Vikings won bj lhe scores of -5-8. 25-12.25-14. Maradith O’Gorman had a team-high 16 kills and Aubrey O’Gonnan added 14. Bump pul up 34 assists on lhe night. Freshman libero Carley Pictceficld had'a team-high 16 digs for the Vikings, with Maradith adding eight and Alli Pickard con­ tributing six digs. Aubrey had four blocks and Maradith two in the victory. ‘ Lakewood opened lhe postseason with’a 25-13.25 8.25-11 win over Olivet al Charlotte High School. l he Vikings were slated to f^ee the host Orioles in the district semifinals Charlotte last night (Nov. 4). Hastings and Eaton Rapids were scheduled to meet in (he other Division 2 District Semifinal in Charlotte Wednesday. I he (wo winners from Wednesday night will meet tonight (Nov. 5) in the district final at 6 p m. �The Delton Kellogg varsity boys’ cross country team gets fired up before the start of the Barry County Meet at Lakewood High School Monday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Delton Kelioag’s Halena Phillips looks ahead as she makes her way around the course a stride or two in front of Hastings’ Carissa Strouse Monday during the Barry County Meet hosted by Lakewood. (Photo by Brett Bremer) >Maple Valley freshman Lilly Faurot takes off with the crowd at the start of the Barry County Meet Monday at Lakewood High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) • ■ Brett Bremer Sports Editor •'.Ready lo start their last post-race cool down run as a team, a couple of Trojans broke off the pack Tuesday night nt Lakewood High School and turned west as everyone else start­ ed east. 1-Once lhe eastward bound teammates teamed the reason for the detour, they turned around Ux). - The TK ladies stood along the edge of the course in a brisk wind as the sun set and cheered on Maple Valley Senior Alyson Gusey as she finished her final varsity cross country race. Die Trojans, including Division 2 state qualifiers Jessica Durkee and Emelia MacDonald, then took off on their jog with instructions from the hcad coach Sam Wilkinson to be back before dark. The Thomapple Kellogg girls and Thomapple Delton Kellogg junior Aubrey Aukerman closes in on the finish as lhe sun sets Monday during the Barry County Meet at Lakewood High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Lakewood sophomore Ryan Alford rounds a turn Moticfay during the Barry County Meet at Lakewood High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Kellogg boys both won championships Monday at the Barn County Meet. Durkee won the girls’ race with a time of 20 minutes 8.63 seconds and Delton Kellogg senior Micah Ordway, an individual state qualifier in Division 3, won the boys’ race in 17:4959. A trio of other 2020 state qualifiers were in the top 14. earning All-Barry County honors, in lhe girls’ race Lakewood senior Katie Acker placed second in 20:30.98 and Maple Valley freshman Lilly Faurot was 14th in 22:41.27. TK sophomore Emelia MacDonald was fifth overall in 21:0959, just behind teammates Holly Veiling and Lucy VanDemark who placed second and third respectively. For some of those state qualifiers. Monday’s meet was just about running well and being ready for this weekend’s Lower Peninsula CrossCountn Finals at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn. For others from lhe county tucked in the space between the cities of Grand Rapids. Lansing, Kalamazoo and Battle Creek, the race was about hitting a new PR. or helping their team chase a county championship, or just closing out the season with teammates. TK’s girls won Monday with 22 points, ahead of Lakewood 68. Dellop Kellogg 69 and Hastings 73. . The TK boys’ won with 38 points, ahead of Delton Kellogg 42 ar.d Hastings 44. Maple Valley did not have ‘enough runners to earn team scores in either pee. The Lake wood boys' team, which got a boost from a group of tennis players when their regular fall season came to an end. missed out on scoring too with senior state qualifier Nathan Alford unable to compete. The boys’ race was missing a couple of the fastest competitors. Alford would have been able to push Ordway- for a county champion­ ship, and Thomapple Kellogg was missing one of its fastest runners in junior Camden Reynolds. The TK boys’ were led to their title by a freshman, Lucas VanMeter, who finished in less than 18 minutes for the first time to place third overall (17:59.05). Hastings freshman Caleb LaBoe was thif runner-up in 17:58.42. Lakewood was led by sophomore Ryan Alford who placed ninth in 18:59.33 and Maple Valley’s fastest guy was senior Curtis Walker who placed 11th in 19:15.09. Junior Aubrey Aukerman led the Delton Kellogg girls with a sixth-place time of 21:10.37. It was a great nice for lhe thirdplace DK girls’ team that had its four fastest runners, including Halena Phillips. Kasey Kapteyn and Joelle While all run new person­ al record limes. Junior Carissa Strouse led Hastings with a seventh-place iinic of 21:18.62. TK had six girls finish among the top 14 Monday. Freshman Holly Veiling was third in 20.48.87, sophomore Lucy VanDemark fourth in 21:0250, sophomore Madison Nagel ninth Thornapple Kellogg junior Matthew Smith and Hastings freshman Riley Shults (left) round a turn together during the first loop of the boys’ race at the Barry County Meet hosted by Lakewood High School Monday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) in 21:47.32 and sophomore Lindsey Veiling tenth in 21:5130, a new PR. Hastings had two other girls in lhe to 14, with senior Aura Wahl-Piotrowski II th in 21: 58.05 and junior /Mlison Teed 12th in 22: 10.49. Lakewood had two seniors among the top 14 with Acker the runner-up and Emily Apsey placing 13th in 22:17.66. her fastest race of lhe season. The top five for the runner-up Lake wood girls’ team also included senior /\nja Kelley 17th in 23:36.20. sophomore Sadie Brearley 21st in 23:52.00 and freshman Claire Fortier 25th in 24:05.83. Delton Kellogg’s fifth scorer was freshman Brea Chandler who placed 29th in 25:33.17. Phillips was eighth in 21:2156, Kapteyn 16th in 23:20.98 and White 22nd in 23:5638. Maple Valley’s second and third runners were freshman Nadia Martin who was 19th in 23: 4659 and Gusey who placed 37th in 35:13.40. VanMeter was the first of four TK guys to cam all-county honors. Junior Mathew Smith was fifth overall in 18:29.90. senior Brennan Luu eighth in 18:58.80 and senior Howie Frizzell tenth in 19:11.80. TK’s number five was senior Jackson LaJoye who set a new PR with his 15th-placc time of 19:45.83. The Delton Kellogg boys’ team had four in the top 14 and a couple others just outside it. Sophomore Hector Jimenez was the second Panther lo finish, placing sixth in 18:4750. Junior Austin Blocker was 12th in 19:19.29. sophomore Micah Martin 13th in 19:39,77 and freshman Austin Bagley 16th in 20:26.93. Hastings had the most guys earn first team all-county honors for lop seven finishes. LaBoe was the runner-up, freshman Riley Shults placed fourth in 17:59.77 and fellow freshman Jonah Teed was seventh in 18:56.89. Rounding out the top five for the Saxon boys were senior Claten Patten 14th in 19:40.99 and freshman Reuben Solmes 22nd in 21:3655. L-akewood had junior Clayton Dumond 27th in 22:32.40, senior Brady Gaw ne 30th tn 22:54.61, and junior Colin Heyl 36th in 25:32.03, a new PR for him. Behind Walker for the Maple Valley boys, sophomore Adam Blakely was 35th overall in 25:13.37. Vikings Acker and Alford earn state finals spots at DeWitt I he fastest Vikinas qualih^ k>f lr,Ps Michigan Speedy but only Ackcr qualified for the Division 3 peninsula < ioss Country Finals by setting t |’R with her time of 19 minutes 58 99 k k h the Division Regional hoMedTv DeWitt High Schoo! Saturday. Viking scnior \athi>n A|,01J <<u:'l,lie<l lor lhe state liila|, f‘ * wcOnd year tn a row with his ei-b, -e regional tunc of >6-*7.70. but able'o chase a -state niCdal al 'be %us ''“bend due to COVID-19 protocols. There were four Vikings running at DeWitt on Saturday. Acker’s senior teammate Anja Kelley placed 55th in 23:34.15. Viking soph­ omore Ryan Alford was 58th in lhe boys’ race in 19:18.63. The top three teams and top seven individ­ uals not on those teams at the regional race earned spots in this Friday ’s Division 2 Stale Finals al MLS. St. Johns dominated lhe boys’ regional race, finishing with just 21 points. St. Joluis had three of lhe four fastest times and six guys in the top 16 overall. St. Johns senior Ryan Brown won the boys’ race in 16-15.22. Fowlerville was second with 75 points, ahead of Mason 92, Lansing Catholic 119, Eat Rapids 135. Corunna 140. Charlotte 148 and Haslett 165. Mason freshman Meghan Ford won the girls’ race in 18:14.30 and 1 arising Catholic sophomore Hannah Prieco was the runner-up in 18:46.87. Fond’s Bulldogs won the regional team title too wilh 51 points. Lansing Catholic was sec­ ond with 66, ahead of St. Johns 91. Olivet 116, Corunna 137. Haslett 142. Fowlerville 143 and Eaton Rapids 165. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-11-12.pdf 7882db673788f6b94490def51fccf48b PDF Text Text Honoring all veterans ■ - The American Legion Post 45 honor guard prepares fo b Scoft Wednesday's ceremony, with masks and social distancing observe . t Harmsen) Veteran Marvin Mason performs taps during Wednesday s ceremony. - Hastings Mayor Dave Tossava reads a poem for the Veterans Day tribute al the Veterans Memorial in Tyden Park Wednesday. Hastings American Legion Post Commander Steve Carr (left) watches while veteran Jim Atkinson removes the worn flag so they can replace it with a new flag. SERVSOE, continued from page 1 A Blue Star Memorial at Hastings’ Tyden Park pays tribute to the Armed Forces of America. shared at events like the one he planned for Barry County Marines. Fellow organize: Carl Benner opted to stay home from Tuesday \-xlebration because of concerns about lh£-jongoing COVID-ISJ pandemic. •, ’ i \ Benner, 75 of''Hastings, was exposed to Agent Orange/while serving in Vietnam, which puts him at a higher risk of severe health consequences if he were to be infected with the coronavirus. Although he was unable to attend, this was Benner’s First year helping organize the event. He was joined by Clisso, Hayward and fellow’ Marine Corps veterans Ron Daniels, Alex Liceaga and Smiley Replogle. An event like this is important for every Marine who has served, he said, recalling the treatment he and his fellow Marines received from the general public after they came home from Vietnam. “We acted under orders; we were subject to ridicule when we were just doing our jobs,” Benner said. “The whole Kenneth Clisso served on the USS Iowa. This photo, taken April 28, 1984, shows society was in turmoil at that time. We just fell Clisso, the third Marine from the left, standing at attention as he and his peers greet into the getting spit on and yelled at...” Part of the importance of hosting events George H. W. Bush aboard their ship. like a Marine Corps celebration, he said, was Events like the one in Delton are meant to to show’ veterans that their lime in the service the line, you get hurt and mentally screwed was appreciated. In Benner’s view, the way up. You go to war and see stuff you never bring Marines together to talk about their time veterans are treated now is 100 percent belter want to see again,” Hayward said. “The in the service and celebrate their brotherhood. CO VID-19 may have hampered Veterans than what it was during the Vietnam era. “The United States kind of ignores people” who’ve Day observances this year, but Clisso said he best way to thank veterans is to respect them,” been through this. Hayward said counseling should be isn’t fazed. he said. mandatory for all veterans returning home “By God, we’re going to do it next year and Whether veterans served in a war or not» the men and women of the U5. Armed Forces from active duty. we'll have a belter turnout,” he said. have gone through experiences that the Now Cemented in Stone general public doesn’t understand, he added. “You have to walk a mile in their shoes to We served together in a foreign land, never questioned why, knowing well we would understand them,” Benner said. “A lot of never understand. people say. ‘Thank you for your service,’ and The tour of duty would be a year or so, we counted dow n the days ‘til home we could go. 1 say, ‘Thank the ones that didn’t make it.’ ” Tiie armaments, the napalm lit ° Both Benner and Hayward addressed postthe sky. no time to question, or ask why. traumatic stress disorder and the importance To keep our buddies alive, we promised to do: sometimes, just sometimes we fail - for of veterans seeking and receiving proper you see counseling and medical care following their There sit his helmet and feel-less shoes. service. Benner and Hayward served in lhe.M““ Corps around the same time; Benner in 1965 and 1966, and Hayward from 1961 lo 966. Hayward said he decided he wanted 10 ,g0 into the Marine Corps before he was a senior a‘ *fe,logB High School. , The years now have passed, memories still are there •» m . I liked the way the uniform looked met. ’a ,nonunient of his shoes, his hclHayward remarked “I knew a couple of An erected cross, carefully placed, by someone who stopped and s»m u . people who were >n ,hc corps. I Mw* lhc£ We come back to visit his grave, each and every year- shv > s?"1eonc who t-^was a lough lot of them and I w^cd <o be We stand holding a trembling a hand next io ours* the <Jjbuddles- his wife. with that lough lot ” ’ As we once again get together, before we say oureoodbv Carest “t”1 so very near. Hayward said he Eol lucky during his time >n the service. He®^ member of the We know before another year has passed one of ns win , h we do not question nor ask why. Vdlled home, accepting this, Marine Corps during ,hc Vietnam era. but he didn’t serve in Vjctn ‘ . We are old now. our crutches, our wheelchairs , After serving, he . hack to M»chiSan m gut us. Ixird,’ ',UMUra'e-Kh tUK* every day. we pray. ‘Come and sin^ and HVed 061(0,1 afCa •Jake us home, oh hear now, this is our silent nraver • Now as 1 make my final pilgrimage, to honor Jim Both Benner alKi wlrtJ tncntioned the Mgmllcant nega^ PTSD can l-or, you see. now 1 am the last one left now for w. n mOre’ THE VIETNAM WAR ' “°W- *or »« remember what was called have on a veteran P Haywanl acknow| . dial rhe United The Prairie Poet States has a Wonderf i ■imm'. b“t hc said 'he country neJ?' take care of Joseph G. Warner Hastings !^erans after tfaCy Jome h*’"* • . US 55815755 When you g0 ,0 pU1 your ass on fc'assa*'■"" ”*■ **■~ * , ~-- •>«— -I to Mu. Hastings American Legion Post 45 Commander Steve Carr honors veterans with remarks during Wednesday s ceremony. Call anv time to place your Hastings Banner classified ad 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday NcvunbAr 12. 2020 — 3 Shining a spotlight on excellence ^ounty employees honored for their service ^bccc, pitrw A PoWcmic l|i(ln.f""tof rn,m doi* prcven* Coun.y : work this year n np S?nK nward-winning fynm tcllmo »u°r d,d *’ sloP ,heir supervi1 At Tiu»c « ’g lhcni so। At lucsday s , . ! ‘ng. employees . , of commissioner mect- efforts and aceoJnr u CCntCr stftgc {ts lhcir • and applauded P ‘shmcnts Were spotlighted I Sgt. Scon vv ^lrSt lo eongratu’ated was ’ national Monirc\'vh.0 was honor‘d ,hc ■ niz it k»n r Against Drunk Dr vers oigar °r h,s efrorts to protect and defend W’ tyniun’.ly against drunken drivers. ♦ ^ce‘ved a certificate of recognition ‘ r //landing Deputy of 2019" for 67 ' unk driving arrests that year. , ohcrifi Dar Ixaf, in bestowing the honor Unng the county board meeting, put that number of arrests in context: ’’That’s a lot’’’ he said. Sgt. Scott Ware of lhe Barry County Sheriff’s Office, shown with Sheriff Dar Leaf According to statistics released in 2019 by Tuesday, was recognized by the national Mothers Against Drunk Driving organization MADD, Michigan is one of the lowest rated for his ongoing efforts to stop drunken drivers. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) 1 states for its drunken driving laws. 1 ‘‘Michigan lawmakers have failed to act on I improving the drunk driving law in over a [ decade." it said. "MADD calls on lawmakers < to enact drunk driving reform mandating 1 interlocks for all convicted drunk drivers." I Leaf noted that Ware’s contribution to the J community goes beyond the arrest of these Ashley McBrian receives an award for five years as a court reporter for the county j drunken drivers. "Sometimes, it’s what they trial court’s family/probate division. • need to get into sobriety court and change I lheir lives.” ; In another ceremony Tuesday, Michael [ Royal, a Hastings High School graduate, was J sworn in by Leaf, becoming the Barry County ; ShcritT’s Office newest deputy. j Royal, 20, the son of Mike and Nicole . Royal, grew up in Barry County and graduat1 cd from Kellogg Community College Police [Academy in August. He has two years’ of | experience in the department’s Marine 1 Division and worked in the jail as a correcBarry County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Officer Lawrence Green maintains a ! lions cadet for a year. social distance, but removes his mask briefly to express his thanks for being recog­ "Since I was little, I liked being able to help nized for five years of service by county board Chairwoman Heather Wing. (Photos by Jpeople" Royal said. Rebecca Pierce) • Being swom as an officer on Tuesday was the fulfillment of a dream for him. “I’ve been waiting a long time for this." he said. Royal will start training on road patrol for the next four to five months. In other awards, recipients were: Jill Jackson, central dispatch/E-9H; Chrystal Lambert, trial court/district division; Ashley McBrian. trial court/probate family division; Dan Patton. Charlton Park; Lawrence Green, sheriff’s office/animal contpl); Thomas Dan Palton, Charlton. Park director receives his certificate for .10 years of service Heald, sheriff's office; Tammy Jackson, sher­ from counly Chairwoman HeatherWfNF' iff’s officc/jaft); Richellc Splicer, sheriff’s office; Ryan Argo, sheriff’s oilice/jail; and* Barry Brandl, sheriff’s office. • Jill Jackson, a supervisor with Barry County Central Dispatch/E-911, came to Barry County from Allegan County dispatch. She was promoted to supervisor in 2018. Stephanie Lehman. 911 director, presented the five-year award to Jackson. "Jill, through the years, your talents and efforts have contributed to our successes." Lehman told her. "Together we take pride in your accomplishments and your commitment to excellence. Michael Royal of Hastings, on right, was sworn in as a new deputy by Sheriff Dar "Congratulations on your five-year mile­ Leaf, during Tuesday’s county board meeting. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) • stone anniversary and thank you for your service to Barry Central." May 15,202 Land the final payment Aug. 14. Blue Cross Blue Shield for an overall savings Coworkers describe her as "dependable, 2021. Tlie payments are contingent on quar­ in health care premiums BCN BCBS agreed trustworthy, creative, enthusiastic, and dedi­ terly reports. to a 7.9 percent rate increase cap for 2021. cated.” •Approved Drain Commissioner Jim Dull’s ’Flic actual increase varies by plan, ranging • Chrystal Lambert, probation officer al Chrystal Lambert, probation officer for Jill Jackson, a supervisor with the coun­ trial court, district division, received her the trial court, district division, is honored ty’s Central Dispatch/E-911, receives an request for $5,000 to update the Drain from 1.25 percent to 5.07 percent. The employer contribution will increase by 3.5 Commission Storm Water Standards. 20-year service award from Court for 20 years of service. award for five years of service. • Approved proposed 2021 Barry County percent. Due to the relatively low increase in Administrator Ines Straubc, who said Lambert’s "honest and assertive personality vice to the counly. Green worked as an animal ous to the public and always willing to use his health plans for employees, as recommended lhe health plan premiums, some plans will make her a great probation officer and team control officer in Eaton County for 26 years 20 years of experience to help new correc­ by lhe county’s healthcare cost containment have a lower employee contribution in 2021 committee. Last year, lhe county switched than in 2020. prior to joining Barry Counly. He ‘‘resolves tions deputies succeed," the sheriff said. member.” Lambert has the responsibility for supervis­ animal issues allowing other deputies more Coworkers describe him as personable, from Priority Health to Blue Cross Network/ ing and holding probationers accountable if time to handle other types of issues," the sher­ trustworthy, dedicated, approachable and iff said, calling Green an asset to the depart­ knowledgeable. they fail to follow the court’s orders. "It’s not an easy task," Straube said. "...I ment. Coworkers describe him as knowledge­ • Barry Brandt is a deputy sheriff celebrat­ witnessed her go above and beyond to help a able, motivated, hardworking and approach­ ing 20 years. Brandt has shown loyalty lo lhe youna pregnant probationer get the treatment able. department that is irreplaceable. Leaf said. The following employees were absent but "He has volunteered for many extra duties she needed in order to save her and her unborn received awards: including, but not limited to, field training baby." . • Thomas Heald is a sergeant celebrating officer, evidence technician, guide team, spe­ Coworkers describe her as compassionate, assertive, confident, meticulous, humorous. his fifth year of service al the sheriff’s office. cial response team and traffic enforcement He started as a deputy sheriff and was promot­ unit. He has unselfishly sacrificed time with Ashley McBrian, court reporter in the trial ed to sergeant on April 13. 2019. Coworkers his family throughout his career serving these court, probate/family division, received her describe him as dependable, knowledgeable specialty roles," thy sheriff said. "His service ^ifieate of appreciation for five years of dedicated, motivated and trustworthy. lo the community is unmatched. He has been • Tammy Jackson, the head cook at the jail/ called ‘The Ambassador of Barry County’ by service from the trial court's deputy divisional scrviuc 1 o McBrian s role sheriff’s office where she has worked since a citizen that was in need of assistance. Leaf adm'res'many different skill sets that are "one September 2015, was recognized for five said Brandt is a motivated individual who is years of service. She supervises inmate work­ respected by his peers. Coworkers described ers and is an excellent cook. Leaf said. "She is him as loyal,dedicated,driven, admirable and budget conscious and strives to get the most thorough. for the least amount of our money," he said tojutnp in whenever nvee ^ "She works well with her peers and is willing In other action, commissioners approved: COV^os^d. when McBrian became to help in any way she can." Coworkers . A recommendation by animal shelter describe her as dedicated, knowledgeable C0V|D.'’ ,0,1 Zoom. . director Ken Kusch Jr. to spend $10,000 from Cowo^cR describe her as caring and post- motivated, personable and dependable. the animal shelter onatiOn fund f()r |jle • Richelle Spencer, a sheriff’s deputy, was pose of Trap. Neuter ^d Release for feral/ live. Park Catherine director, honored for 20 years of service. Leaf said she barn cats in the co y. The funds will lx* used /iXarrharlton Xl fn,m started with the department as a part-time in conjunction wl1?. ^Urreni $2,950 remain­ received a ‘ * parks and Recreation corrections officer and. ii|x>n completion of ing from a gn»nl * e.n?&triction of $25 per Getty of ‘he co j the police academy, she became a sworn dep­ animal. The cun5"1 balance of lhe Commission boa • liona| professional uty. "She is respected by her peers and has shelter donation fund is $27, M, Mugs, Ornaments, Labels, Cards, ••Dan has prov‘ cn.aJ 0 counly park sys- been an asset to lhe sheriff’s office in various • Approved a - ‘ tnun contract with the guidancc on ho* d of;• Getty said. "His roles," he said. Calendars, Picture Enlargements, Frames, Michigan Ind'S'"* । fen* Commission for tern wc can P tion provide (he guidCoworkers describe her as dependable, $911597 from,<■* ■ ' Sept. 30, 2021. f()r Christmas Items & Much, Much More experience and um a pre- committed, organized, approachable anJ the continuation of^gen, (lclcns<. services ancc th€ C°“!2.rdestinatioii.'’ .......... hardworking. m the county- ^e * *I iharf fw |hjs • Ryan Argo, a corrections sergeant, is ceL mietc recrcati competent, pro 13S1 n Broadway (M-43), Hastings ment is will include a forking «nd easy to work ebrating 20 years of service. Argo got his start there as a part-time dispatcher. Leaf said he is fcssional, naro . , . , with. ,.recn sheriffs Olhce/animal professional and dedicated and provides his OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00 - 4:30 1 . Lawrence his fifth year of ser- team members with guidance. "He is courte control deputy. >n^e r,a ™ »ssu.'**s:«&ss; . 269.945.9105 �Page 4 — Thursday. November 12 2020— The Hastings Banner Did you SCC? Patriotism in the pines We are one flag, one nation. We stand together," said Jacqueline Muma of Rutland Township who took this photo at the Church of Back to the drawing board for a now jail A taxpayer’s strongest voice comes at the ballot box. And when it speaks as strongly >hy^S"aL Tnd as it did in last week’s resounding defeat of We're dedicating this space to a photograph taken by readers or the counly jail millage proposal, county our staff members that represents Barry County. If you have a photo leaders should have received it respectfully to share, please send it to Newsroom Hastings Banner, 1351 N. as a message of guidance. M-43 Highway, Hastings. Ml 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics. without the facts.” I’m not sure our leaders even heard it. Now. the Still-vexing and still-unresolved com. Please include information such as where and when the photo “It’s disheartening" is how Barry County was taken, who took the photo, and other relevant or anecdotal Sheriff Dar Leaf framed the will of the issue will land on next year’s county board taxpayers. I wonder if maybe his deep of commissioners, two of whom have just information. analysis of the result should have included been newly elected. The big quest.on for the words like decisive or conclusive or clear, board will be: “Where do we go from here? In an earlier column. I suggested lhe proposal to levy a lax for $25 million in general obligation bonds to design, engineer, commissioners assemble a citizens group and build a new county jail and sheriff’s to discuss the issues and work with the office went down, 18,930 to 13390. It was county board to put together a proposal defeated in all but one of the county’s 24 voters might support. Commissioners, I precincts. noted at the time, needed someone - or a I respect lhe more than 13,000 voters who small independent group from the were outnumbered but who voted to approve community other than themselves - to take lhe request. They know just how badly the lead. Choosing a hired gun like I •7 _____ _____________________________________ ____________ needed _____ a new jail is and they pushed to have TowerPinkster wasn’t lhe answer; in fact, it this long-festering issue finally resolved. was a costly mistake. * I But, in voting for it, they chose to overlook “We’re not even on the same page, said I a flawed proposal and the effort that was Commissioner Jon Smelker. who correctly I made to slip it past the community under a realized that spending more money on I cover of secrecy and slick markeling. professional consultants didn’t make any I Top secret, of course, was where lhe new sense if citizens weren’t willing to pass a I facility would be located. Three limes the millage when commissioners weren’t even I county board went into closed session last sure what the question should be. month to discuss "the purchase or lease of In the end, what’s truly been real property.” Contents of lhe meeting “disheartening" is a county board that asked I minutes from those closed sessions were taxpayers for a blank check without never made public nor will they ever be. providingallthedetails.Now.commissioners I according to county officials. Also never should pul off conversations about the I made public, of course, was the proposed project until next year and begin by selecting I location for a new jail. a local citizens’ group - a truly independent I I_caf and commissioners maintained that committee - to accurately and transparently I disclosing the location could drive up the address the question of how to proceed and I price of the land and lhe overall cost of lhe how to structure a successful project. project. “You have no choices about how to lose,” I “The problem you have is, when you former professional basketball coach Pat decide on a site, because it’s more likely a Riley said, "but you do have a choice about I property that’s going lo be for sale,” Leaf how you come back and prepare to win I said during a telephone interview the day again.” after last week’s election. “Then someone A new jail and sheriff’s office for Barry buys it out from under you. Now you no County can be won. longer have a site. Or they buy it out and then they want to make money on it by selling it back.” Counly board Vice Chairwoman Vivian • Conner bought into that ruse, acknowledging that yet another, .county leader apparently never thought to talk with someone from the real eslate industry who could have Yesterday was Veterans Day, originally I explained that an option on a piece of property could be obtained, with an agreed- called Armistice Day. proclaimed by | upon purchase price and any specifics based President Woodrow Wilson in 1919, to I celebrate and remember lhe armistice signed on passage of the proposal. near Miller. S.D., in Hand County, the Beckman of Grand Rapids, Roger Zens “If people know we’re in lhe market to on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the Uth hunters filled their bag limits each day. of Miller, Larry Gary. Rowland fcBub" Hall, buy property, then it could be very hard to month that ended the camage of World War According to the Miller newspaper, the Vic Hanning of Grand Rapids; (back) Banner Nov. 23, 1961 get a deal," Conner incorrectly reasoned 1. Full bag limit - Seven hunters from pheasant harvest runs into the millions, Burnell Larke. Ken Laberteaux, Norbert The annual celebration should be following the vote. “It could be hard to get Hastings recently returned from South but there are apparently "millions left.’’ Zens of Miller. Bennie Carr, Herman important to all of us as we honor all those a price that ’ s not inflated because they know Dakota where they enjoyed the pheas­ The men from Hastings and others ' Chip" St. Martin. Linnell “Shorty" Haigh who served this great nation. We celebrate we need property to build a jail on." ant hunting season to the limit. Hunting include (front row, from left) Stanley of Miller, and Henry St. Martin. The reason for nol disclosing a location their patriotism, love of country and was a smokescreen erected for project willingness to serve and potentially sacrifice consultants Tower Pinkster of Kalamazoo, their lives for the common good of our who fell all along the new jail should be nation. According to the most recent statistics, there are about 17.4 million built on the existing property. TowerPinkster’s presence in this whole veterans who make up about 7 percent of affair represented the other major mistake in the adult population in the United Stales. An the strategy of counly leaders lo slip this estimated 300,000 World War II veterans Sue Otto has always loved clothing. In proposal by taxpayers: Slick marketing that are still alive in the U.S., but lhe numbers ”1 have dreams now of retiring within the high school, she said she worked at practically wouldn’t sell a flawed proposal. Critical- are dwindling each year from the 16 million next. say. five years, so I would love to find every women’s clothing store in Woodland thinking taxpayers got that first clue when Americans who served. the proper person lo fill my shoes in Hastings It s imperative that we honor these brave Mall. She earned an associate’s degree in meeting facilitator Nancy Ohle of Midland because there’s a huge market for what 1 do fashion merchandizing from Davenport told commissioners during a special men and women each year for the sacrifices here.” Otto said. College and worked in the fashion industry planning workshop in late January' that they they made to protect our nation and the A travel enthusiast, she said she hopes her for almost a decade — all in an effort needed to frame lhe eventual jail millage freedoms we cherish. That’s what Veterans retirement will be filled with Michigan Day is all about. accomplish her dream to open her own proposal with “positive messaging.” summers and Florida winters. She’s looking clothing boutique. “That’s all covered in our contract with forward to spending more time with her Now, Otto, 60, is approaching the 11-year TowerPinkster," Commissioner Ben Geiger children, Cole. 33, and Casey, 31. and her anniversary of her consignment boutique. said at the time. “Their professional I - and 2-year-old granddaughters. Previously Pink, in downtown Hastings. resources are going to be used for that. My customers have requested that she Originally from Detroit. Otto moved to There’s a time and a place for talking about has to be just like me," Otto said of the future Middleville at the age of 4 and grew up on that messaging, and we have hired that firm owner. “So, I say. ‘Good luck to <hal one.’ Payne Lake. .She developed her passions — for their professional assistance." There are a lot of great women who can fill water, clothing and people — at a young age That’s where lhe mistakes began. After my shoes, whether or not she’ll have my and has yet to stray from them. spending $70,000 for TowerPinkster’s personality." “The water is one of my very huge professional services - $20,000 of which For enthusiastically building connections passions, along with people — those are two Sue Otto was tacked on to cover the costs of lhe with customers and consigners. Sue Otto is of my big ones.” Otto said. “1 think you have election campaign - county commissioners this week’s Banner Bright Light. side-business while she opened a new store to be a people person to be in retail - I know not only lost the millage due to poor Fred Jacobs. CEO. you do. And with one of those being my in downtown Hastings. She called it The messaging, they also managed to lose the J-Ad Graphics Inc. Favorite movie: “ Pretty world: Shanty. Eventually, Otto decided lo turn her | passion, it works well.” confidence and respect of county voters. If 1 could go anywhere ’n ol wajt to Otto graduated from Davenport in 1978 consignment business into its own shop. She world and worked at two Grand Rapids department bought the building across the street from Because I’m a traveler, I c*n f experience lhe fashion cap 113 ' 0 The Shanty and opened Previously Pink in stores, first Steketee’.s and then - Paris'. Herpol she inters. After taking time off to 2009. I lobbies: I love music and 1° lance. T°mc “It certainly stands out in Hastings. No have her two children, she worked in finance it ’ s an art form — all genresfavorite Deuotcd to the Interests of Barry County since 1856 one else has a pink store, ” Otto said. for 10 years before she finally found the Greatest songs of all timeKing’s Previously Pink has grown to have more opportunity she’d been looking for. A small pushed by... Hastings Banner, Inc A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc ’ store on Gun Lake, the Sea Shanty, was for than 2/MX) consigners — individuals who song during my younger ycarS’1 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 sell their used clothing through Previously -Will you Still Love Me Ton'olW' inC." and sale. News and press releases: news@j-adgraphrcs.com • Advertising: ads@i-adgraphics com ’There was still my dream of owning my Pink. When their clothing is sold, consigners love Mercy Me’s “1 Can Only ll? .‘Nothing could own store ... that never left,” Otto said, receive 40 percent of the profit via check or “My Redeemer Lives" and Compares to You." Of coun>e’, a horrible adding that she was in the store when lhe 50 percent of lhe profit in store credit. Frederic Jacobs Otto said building relationships with her go on and on; unfortunately. ^eartbeaL thought hit her. “She was selling lhe place, • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT Publisher & CEO singer or I would be in a band j n ‘ workers, consigners and customers has and I said ‘That’s what I want. J want this Class tsd ads aaxp’oC Monday through Friday. I shake a pretty mean lamboU f ' nC ’ greatly enriched her life. dream to come true So. I bought the Sea 8 20 am to 500 p.m Hank Schuuring “I have so many wonderful friends out of Shanty.” Scott Ommen CFO Each week, lhe Banner you aDo I** 011 Otto’s investment ultimately failed in a this career (and it’s a two-way struct) and a Ty Greenfield Mike Gilmore who makes lhe community shlL featured love for these people. We are each other ’ s lackluster economy, but she began running a Jennie Yonker know someone who sho^ fun-loving confidants, counselors. There is never consignment shop. . NEWSROOM • Subscription Rates: $52 per year in Hany County because of volunteer work- r uchas to “I had enough clothes in my own closet something that we can’t talk about," Otto Rebecca Pierce (Editor) $60 per year in adjoining counties that I decided to start a consignment shop in said. "1 can’t ask for any thing more than that, personality, lor lhe stories he LflUl»on lo Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) tell or any other reason'? Send ^.43 $65 per year elsewhere the back room of the Sea Shanty until I was you know? Il’s friendship: it’s bonds; it’s just Newsroom. Hastings Banner. 1^8; or Brett Bremer (Sports Editor) a wonderful feeling." able to sell the Sea Shanty.” Otto said. POSTMASTER. Send address changes hr Highway. Hastings, Ml 4 Now, though, Otto has a new dream. Otto continued running her consignment PO. Box tBd Sophie Bates Luke Froncheck em.ul newsw j-adgr*aphjc5,conaHistngs. Ml 49058-0188 Jesus Christ on Airport Road. do you remember? Celebrating our country’s heroes Pheasant outing Have you I]net? The Hastings Greg Chandler Taylot Owens Banner Second Postage Pj<1 at Hartings, 49058 �The Hastings Hftst'ngs Banner — Thursday. inursoay, November Novemoor 12, 2020 — Page rag* 5 Barry County board Plans return to Zoom » . Rebecca Pierce Editor Shmpe Hall in Hastings. S *IjC,son omc’X lL"idnthc1S?oVT1Di;l9h 0Sdart!’’enl spreading through Barn- and P ls at unp reeedented levek’tn COUnl,cs 12 deaths in lhe district wcrc'LES COVID 10.- u Wtrc associated with to W ' C“n’S ran«cd in “8" f«>m « short Older “I"’"8 ,0 ,he Public in short order. Jackson pointed out H s going to be mid-2021 before we get any momentum." he said. "This is beyond senous at this point. Death tolls [are] cli.nbnroremm1'3 fill‘ng Up’50 wc necd 10 Commissioner Jon Smclker, who was exposed lo COVID 19 and did not contract it but had lo be quarantined, echoed Jackson’s concern. “Anything you can do to help lhe preven­ tion of this spread, please, please do it,” Smclker said to fellow commissioners. Both Jackson and Smclker serve on the Barry-Eaton District Health Department board. "This week - with 122 new cases in a sin­ gle day - puts us on pace for just under 800 to 900 cases per week in the district,” Jackson said. "Our positivity rates in the county have been low - most of the summer around 3 per­ cent. They’re now over 12 percent. There’s so much more virus circulating and so many more cases out there. Our courts have gone back to a Level 2, delaying some of our tri­ als.” rcdijni. ...»i u> Ivl ninV "We to >lay *wtne^r,ro?,ing'i we Pco|’L‘oo«rs- ' Thc ’ J"ckwn "’ll county ‘^'"j^niger. «tCl)Un\aEe. ? E°‘ from C'<>lv«<^'w0.ft b, h“"h offi­ cer) is •!»' ,h‘.n>’r in hc5 Watewide P-One of ** '^fnligu-^'11 is ‘fati8"c:’ people ha'e tjr4 S ,lavc social fatigue. peop'« 8 hitt ,Q ’ king locked up. quarantined, tom There s just a lot of people wh“*dan'w^* back to normal." Jackson said. A th b cverybody being pushed indoors wi cold weather al this Jail access control system breaks Commissioners QK Jail fixes Rebecca Pierce Editor A breakdown in lhe electronic access con­ trol system at the Bany County Jail and sher­ iff’s office prompted immediate action by the Barry County* Board of Commissioners to authorize $20,750 lo fix lhe problem. Undersheriff Jason Sixberry advised the board Tuesday that the system had malfunc­ tioned and could no longer be used. "The access control system basically allows our deputies, as well as corrections deputies, to gel in the building itself,” Sixbenry told the board. “Right now. we only have one access because the computer program itself ... fried on us and is no longer useful.” As a result, officers have only one access lo the jail, through the lobby, he said. They can use some keys, he mentioned, but keys are not as secure as fobs. If a fob is lost, it can be disarmed, he pointed out. “To keep our inmates safe, as well as employees, we need that system,” Sixberry said. The product they are looking at will allow them to have control to as many as 399 doors, he said, “which we would never need." It comes with a 10-year warranty. The product can be serviced by other com­ panies as well, which would ensure some flexibility if the company they purchase the product from is unsatisfactory for any reason, Sixbeny added. For the county sheriff’s office staff, jail repairs were a focal point of the Nov. 3 gener­ al election. The request on lhe ballot for $25 million tax levy to build a jail and sheriff’s office would have addressed all these issues by replacing the current structure, which has been deteriorating for years. Sixbeny said they had been acting “in a very limited way to put a Band-/\id’” on the problems with the building. The request for <ax.levy was the best option for the jail «}. but that option was Shot down for US .“'"'J*, he said. In the 2021capita dget, commissioners have already ? s,x projects totaling $278,500 - not ,nclU(l»ng the electronic access control system - to address some of lhe problems in and around the jail. Those projects include: • $177,000 for parking lot replacement; • $75,000 to install partitions in the large inmate multipurpose room and add a hallway; • $10,000 for property room relocation and expansion along with a second video arraign­ ment room; • $7,500 to replace porcelain sinks, toilet and urinal with stainless steel fixtures in the west unit of the jail; • $5,000 for the installation of security screens for the windows in the work-release cells; • and $4,000 to replace the HVAC unit in the jail control room to provide climate con­ trol. Hastings Township plans cemetery cleanup, moves forward on floodplain ordinance Sophie Bates areas as a responsibility of lhe Barry County Staff Writer Planning and Zoning Department rather than Following the City of Hayings’ example at the township and place' the areas under the (Riverside Cemetery', the Hnstmgs'Township provisions of lhe State Construction Code iBoard will have a winter cleanup at the Act. Hastings Township Cemetery. The changes will make individuals living “The city does this — which is very smart in flood-hazard areas qualified to be covered — because at the end of the year, some of by the Federal Emergency Management these cemeteries can look like the city dump, Agency protections. to be honest with you, with all of lhe stuff that “It basically says we’re trying to hand this people put out there,” Township Supervisor over to Barry County.” Mennell explained. Jim Brown said. “If you don’t get this stuff “This is to make it so those people can get a picked up. it gets to be a mess.” federal insurance policy on their homes. It has Individuals who want to save gravesitc nothing to do with us (lhe township).” decorations must pick up the items before The board unanimously voted for the cleanup begins Dec. 1. All decorations left ordinance to move on to a second reading. behind after Nov. 30 will be removed. After the second reading — which likely will “Come wintertime, this stuff gets wet, cold take place al next month’s board meeting — comes along and blows it all over lhe place. the ordinance will be approved or rejected by This will force people who want their the board. shepherd’s hook and stuff to come take it In other news, the board: home and bring it back out again next spring,” • Reviewed lhe 2021 budget; lhe budget Township Clerk Anita Mennell said. cannot be approved until after the public has Mennell noted the new rules will be posted a chance to comment at the next township in the cemetery’s rule box on brightly colored meeting. paper. In the future, they plan for winter • Approved the payment of $19228 for a cleanup to begin after Veterans Day — like voting tabulator; Mennell noted the first the City of Hastings — however, they check sent for lhe tabulator was addressed to postponed the cleanup this year lo give lhe the wrong persons, and this is a replacement check. public adequate notice. Another cemetery cleanup is planned April • Approved a total increase of $3,850 to lhe 2020 budget. Mennell requested $2,800 for an 1,2021. The board also held the first reading of an additional light installed al Sundago Park, ordinance that would designate flood-hazard $800 lo improve equipment and other capital assets al lhe recycling facility, and $250 for the board of review. members tested positive. Barry County Christian was closed for a weekjate last month, after two students test“1A?tteV^rt of the school year some admin• md school board members speculat ,?:T?1he sute would order districts back to ed that he rQVID-19 cases rose this remote has bcc„ collected on wherethe virus is spreading, superintendents now state agen•‘We have heard f^uxjl ’’Lakewood cy regarding thCg ““^tcndent Steven Skalka Public Schools S p• hcar |h(. oppo. ^■S^oftransmissi^^ and safety aien’t seeing a lol of • I know that w m()S( stU(Jents spread at the school I caIching it from who are gelling slt * •» pelton Kellogg school but from hm ( Cork(t said< Schools Supenn t “'Fhere’s also the workers will find “Right now Jl s H ()f hoW health care jf schools close, scjiool-by-school deci1 , 'cause we re sion. which I fortunate enough to •choois and don hmk " now.-CorlettadtM- » better than mos d ,0 c|Ose right (he downs.de to that is that some schools are feeling pres­ sured by various groups to stay in-person even though the number of students and staff being quarantined is rising, so it would make it easier if lhe state gave a mandate for those schools to close.” ‘Tlie problem most schools arc facing is staffing,” Hastings Area Schools Superintendent Dan Remenap said. "If onc teacher is positive, the likelihood that other teachers arc close contacts is high, meaning we need more substitutes. ... There is a sub­ stitute shortage, so one positive test for a school can shut down an entire building. That has been the case twice in Hastings. “We have had a staff member test positive in two buildings and in our transportation department, rendering us unable lo staff build­ ings and/or buses. We have gone virtual because of staffing, not because of COVffy outbreaks. It is very important for people to understand that.” "Il is important that people see the numbers remain very low among children,” Rcntenap lidded. “Our safety protocols are working. Our kids are safe - and we want them in school.” Officials in and out of lhe health care industry' are urging people to take precautions to help slow lhe spread of COVID-19. “Anything folks can do to reduce their risk (masks and decreased social gatherings) will be a great help to us," Marzolf said. “The first Commissioner David Jackson point, the risk for a spike in cases in November •and December, going into Christmas and Thanksgiving, is going to be enormous if we don't do our part." Chairwoman Heather Wing said that, statu­ torily, the county is required to have just one board meeting a month. Typically, the board meets every Tuesday, the first and third Tuesdays for a committee of the whole meeting and the second and fourth Tuesdays for an official board meeting. “We can eliminate one of the meetings we have.” Wing said. “We can even go to a Zoom,” she added, “it’s just that we have issues with technology in our community. We can go to Zoom, but it is very, very hard to do a Zoom where we can communicate effectively.” The county board went from in-person to all Zoom meetings in April then, in mid-July, and Snow Removal will be plowing Barry Township property this winter. The Barry Township Board of Trustees voted Tuesday night to accept a bid from lhe company. Smith’s wrote in the bid that each plowing could be done for $185. The only other bid came from Paradise Lawncare, which offered to do lhe work for $220. Board members met in person for lhe scheduled monthly meeting. However, trustee Teresa Schuiteboer was absent due a death in her family. Board members voted to hire three new Hickory- Comers firefighters: Joshua Clark, Jessica Rausch and Kalcb Rauch. The board also voted to reinstate Brandon Wooley as an active driver for lite department. The new additions bring the total number of Hickory Comers Firefighters and emergency medical technicians to 22. thing that comes to mind is prevention. If wc can flatten the curve of patients we can work our way through this. “Secondly, if people feel a necd for testing, we, along with many other sites, will do drive-through testing at the hospital. This does require a physician’s order. “Thirdly, if Pe°P*e feel ill they can avail themselves of several options; telemedicine (so they do not necd to physically go to an office), making an appointment with their primary care provider and, if j( js an emergen­ cy, all of our emergency departments arc open as well.” . Since the health aepanment will no longer be able to call all rest nts \V]1O reccjvc a pos­ itive test, it has »jsueainstructions for people who have tested positive, or suspect they might have the virus. People should qu^anjj^ Grateful for those who serve and served; men and women To the editor: First, much gratitude lo those men and women who served and gave of themselves in the sacred oath to preserve and protect our freedom and country’. As a Vietnam-era vet, and the daughter of a World War II vet, 1 was proud lo serve in the Air Force as well as the Air Force Reserves. Thank you lo Luke Froncheck for the great article honoring veterans. However, I would have appreciated an interview with a woman who served. There b feet of the j hours. are actually quite a few in our county. Several work at lhe hospital and some are members of lhe American Legion. Thank you again for the tribute paid to our Vets. Carla Wilson-Neil, Hastings • • »■'/» To the editor: I see the Bany Counly Sheriff Dar Leaf complaining about “people misunderstanding the jail proposal.” Sorry, but Dar misunderstood the people. No new jail until we have a new sheriff and one who thoroughly understands his responsibilities. Lawrence Hamp, Hastings Larry Osborne, Hastings (write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. t • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks o?Sn!3 unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. . • "Crossfire" letters between the same two people on one tssue wtll be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a Itm.t of one letter per person per month. , . We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Water ’s Edge Financial LLC Jeffrey A. Keessen, AIF* (269) 948-9969 525 W. Apple St, Hastings, MI 49058 * www.watersedgermancial.coni ' contact is someone Taking care of what's important to you so that you can focus on what matters most to you ithln lhe span . Jcflrty A. K**'**” Air* *......................... - Sheriff’s behavtot doomed jail proposal To the editor: About the jail proposal: It’s my opinion that a very large reason for the new Bany County jail proposal failing is the improper behavior of Sheriff Dar Leaf. The county board doesn’t seem to under­ stand that. I hope they do not waste any more money on this issue until Dar is either removed or becomes a sheriff we can respect. their »nPtorns,i ’Or bi,ice their positive test. They shouId y end quarantine at that point if they have vfeVcr-free for 24 hours and their symptom- avc improved. People also "otiiy any close con. tacts they b8>e.X,“** two days before their synipro^1 b when they received a positive Wing noted that commissioners, while they have not contracted the virus, have lieen exposed to it and had to quarantine. "We do have a very g00^ social distance here. We all act responsibly. We’ve already had one [exposed - Smelker), and now we have another [Commissioner Dan Parker)." Jackson said if the county goes to a 15-ptrcenl positivity rate in COVID testing, they will have no choice. "We're going lo have lo go back to Zoom.” “A lot of what we do is redundant,” he added. “The risk is not worth that. ... Have a board of commissioners’ Zoom meeting to get the bills paid. We’re going to have to think creatively to make it work.” Smelker replied, “Personally. 1 don’t like ’em [Zoom meetings], but I agree with David.” Commissioners agreed to meet in person next week, gel the word out to the public about lhe changes ahead, and plan for a Zoom meeting the following week. Wing said she would discuss this with County Administrator Michael Brown and come up with a plan to vote on at lhe board’s next meeting. CAA/L Barry Township accepts snow­ removal bid Sheriff just Luke Froncheck Staff Writer doesn’t get it Staff from Smith’s Lawncarc, Landscaping CAPACITY, continued from page 1 pended in-person learning al the high school and then student transportation, after staff "We can be part of the solution.” Stay ». m asking Motion- Wc •* part of the s department » u , Of the hc^%austed iv Uff* Jackson said: “They onders'J>> ™ on deck, contact ‘ arc so far behind on 'ng cases, they can’t get to the 'ey have so many new cases «>'»'« "’ks conttnue to go returned to in person meetings at Leason Sharpe Hall in the Barr) Community Enrichment Center - with social distancing and masks required. SwurttiWthnnuh I Fl- HMndAl, McmhcT I INRAAIrC Karrn �Shirley Anne Lumbert ■ Shirley Anne Lumbert. age 78. <>l Hastings, passed away on November 8. Shirlev was Ixirn on January 5. 194.., ’ daughter of Donald C. and Ruth (Bruce) Douglas. She was a I960 graduate ol Hastings High School. Shirley worked for many years at Liras Brothers Big Boy and Baby Bliss. Inc. Shirley was a member of the Hastings Baptist Church. and for the past four years a member of Gospel Light Baptist Church. Shirley attended lhe Barry County Commission on Aging and really enjoyed coloring and drawing. She took a big interest in Native American History and had a large Native American Collection. She loved to A graveside service will be held on Friday, laugh and had a unique jokester personality Nov. 13. 2020 al 11 a.m. at Hastings loving to joke and have fun. Township Cemetery, 2475 McKeown Rd.; Shirley was preceded in death by her parents. Don and Ruth Dougins; brother. Hastings. Ml 49058. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions Bruce Douglas, and daughter, Rebecca can be made to Michael Lumbert or Girrbach (Lambert) Burton. She is survived by her son, Michael (Lori) Funeral Home to help w ith funeral costs. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. Lumbert; daughter, Sandy (John) Wilkins: To leave an online condolence, visit www. eight grandchildren and 10 greatgrandchilden. and (Shirley’s inside joke) her girrbachfuneralhome.net. brother’s wife, Roberta Douglas. Marlene E.■_ Smith__ Leona Ruth Lentz Leona Ruth Lentz, age 89 of Delton, passed away peacefully on November 4. 2020. Ixona was born on May 18. 1931 the daughter of Ona and Esther Mae (Barton) Campbell. Leona was an active member of Faith United Methodist Church in Delton for many years. She was also a member of lhe Eastern Stars since 1950, and a member of several postcard clubs. Ixona enjoyed reading. crossword puzzles, and in her younger years, dancing. Leona had a love for all animals, especially dogs and cats. • Leona is survived by children. Loraine Heath, and Thomas (Susie) lent?: four grandchildren: seven great grandchildren; daughter-in* law, Cathy Lentz; and several nieces and nephews. Leona was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Carl Lentz Jr.; a daughter. Linda Sever; and son: Alan Lentz. Leona’s funeral service was conducted Monday. Nov. 9. 2020. at Faith United Methodist Church, Pastor Brian Bunch, officiating. Ixona was laid to rest next to her husband. Carl, following the funeral service at Lakeview Cemetery in Nashville. Memorial contributions to Faith United Methodist Church will be appreciated. Please visit www.willianisgorcsfuneral.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Leona’s family. Arrangements made by Williams-Gores Funeral Home. Marlene E. Smith, age 88. of Hastings, passed away Wednesday. Nov. 4. 2020 of heart failure al Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids. Marlene was bom on May 31. 1932. the daughter of Kenneth and Florence (Snyder) Bulling. She attended Vermontville High School and graduated in 1950. Marlene worked for Action Rod and Brown’s Floor Covering in Hastings. She was an active member of Red Hatters and enjoyed many years of square dancing with lhe Ringo Swingo Square Dance Club. On Wednesday. Oct. 19. 1951 Marlene married Wendell Lloyd Smith of Nashville, and enjoyed 61 years together until his passing on July 4,2012. Marlene is survived by her two sons, Scott (Debi) Smith of Denver. CO and Bryan Smith of Hastings; two grandchildren, Amanda (Chad) Smith of Austin. TX and Travis (Toni) Smith of Denver, CO; one niece, Treasa Jones and three nephews. Fred. Stuart and Kenny Trumble. Honoring her wishes, cremation has taken place. .A private graveside service will take place at Lakeside Cemetery in Lake Odessa. A celebration of life luncheon will be held at a later date in 2021. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. Hastings. ML To leave an online condolence, visit w w w.girrbachfuneralhome.net Worship Together ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "We Exist To Be An Expression Of Who Jesus Is To The World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy.. P.O. Box 8, Hustings. Telephone 269­ 945-9121. Email hastfmc •* gnutil.com. Website: ww w. hasliwIxgenicihudisLcpin. Piistor Brian Teed, Assistant Pastor Emma Miller, Worship Director, Martha Stoctzel. Sunday Morning Worship: Pam and 10:30 a.m. Due to lhe current health crisis, our nursery is remains closed. Weekly activity bags for chi Iren are available in the 9 a m. service and Kid’s Church is available in our 10:30 service. Our worship center is set up for social distancing. Aftermath Student Ministries* Sunday 6 p.m. ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. 269 945 4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip. Mass 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Mass 8 and JI a.ni. Sunday. HASTINGS BAIT 1ST CHURCH LIFTGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 309 E Woodlawn, Hastings. Malt Moser. Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.tn. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.ni. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30-8 p.nu. Kids 4 Troth (Children Kindergarten-5th Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information. 301 E Stale Rd . P.O. Box 273. Hastings. Ml 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone* 269-948­ 0900. Website: www.lifegatecc. coni. Sunday Worship 10 a.ni. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.ni. Worship Time 10:30 a.ni. Youth activities: call for information. 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, Ml 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Sen ices: Sunday, 9: 45 a.m. CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616-690-8609. PLEASANTVIEW Linda I. (Ward) Campbell, age 81. passed on Friday, Nov. 6.2020 Linda was bom February 24. 1939 to Harold and Alida Ward in Yankee Springs Township. Barry County. Linda graduated from Thomapplc Kellogg Middleville with the class of 1957. Linda was raised on a farm and even though her soul mate of 59 years Frank look her out of the country and moved her to the city ot Hastings, her farm up bringing never left her soul. Linda still loved her horses and made sure her children were able lo have the same experience. Linda loved life (0 the fullest and always put everyone else first before herself. She loved music and learned to play the accordion later in life. The Accordion Group played for many events around Michigan. Linda and Frank loved to travel spending time in their RV going all over lhe U.S. until they decided to retire from camping and start traveling to Florida and staying a few months near their dear friends. Linda was blessed with spending time with all her family for weekend outings or get together* with friends playing cards. Linda always made sure lo attend as many activities as possible for her grandchildren from football games, cheerleading events, swim team, choir, band or one of them showing an animal at fair for4H, to watching (hem compete in FFA. tf) ;1.y Linda is survived by her soul mate and best friend husbani, Frank Campbell; children, Lee (Cindy) Campbell, and LuAnn Campbell; eight grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren: brother. Raymond (Joan) Ward; brothers-in-law. Jimmie (Nancy) Campbell, Turn (Annette) Campbell and sister-in-law, Linda Campbell Allen.; special friend lo the family. Kevin Doyle; several nieces and nephews and many dear friends. Linda was preceded in death by her parents. Harold and Alida Ward and brother­ in -law. Denny Allen. Memorial contributions in her memory can be made to The Shrincr Children’s Hospital Chicago, c/o Battle Creek Shrine Club, 11801 4 Mile Rd.. Battle Creek Ml 49015 or The Hastings FFA, Hastings High School, 520 West South Street. Hastings, Ml 49058. Visitation is Friday, Nov. 13, 2020 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Graveside service will be officiated by Pastor Scott Price of Lifegate Community Church, Saturday. Nov. 14, 2020 1 p.m. at Irving Tow nship Cemetery . Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Dicey Road. Dowling, Ml 49050. Pastor. Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 10 a in. Maple Valley Board of Education winners decided Taylor Owens SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 765. (comer of Milo Rd. & S. M­ 43). Delton. Ml 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204­ 9390. Sunday Worship Service 10: 30 to ll:30ani. Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer Due lo the large mnnlxr <>f »riUr'in C“dl‘ toes forthe Maple lhe winners weren’t known until U* Bany County Hoard of Canvassers role m certifying the vote al P "1’ Mond“>; 'he ofllciid vole’ ><-t been posted publielv the Barr) 5, Z Clerk’s office notified Maple Valley Schools lime 6:30 to 7.30 pm This information on worship service is provided by The llasiim>s Banner, die churches and these local businesses: 1351 North M43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 tflexfab Hmgs 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 •'-■-henisJul^’^d Brian Green won four-year terms on the lx*"1 , Newcomers Jon uh. n»nu>n *°n a ir >car term and ^'-•Kvnyo^^pe^''*’™" 'or the two-year se-.t . , Burns. IMP* a'x1 incunv **•»• Andrea Mun. ’ J did "•‘'j enough votes to ,nT .L tolh< lx,:,rd -, insAn-dH^,^1^'ier.^-Ie. ""•e-ineandirh’1-'^'^ City approves Woodlawn Ave. resurfacing contract, holiday events Sophie Bates Staff Writer lhe Hastings City Council Monday eve­ ning unanimously authorized City Manager Jerry Czarnecki to sign a contract with the Michigan Department of Transportation for the resurfacing of Woodlawn Avenue. The project will stretch along Woodlawn from North Michigan Avenue east to lhe city limits. The project will be let out to receive construction bids in December or January; construction is expected to begin next spring. “The Slate will accept bids over the winter for spring construction.” Czarnecki said. The cost of this project is yet to be deter­ mined. However, lhe contract slates Federal Surface Transportation Funds shall provide cither $240,450 or 81.85 percent of lhe proj­ ect cost in funding, whichever is lhe lesser. The city will pay the remaining sum and addi­ tional engineering costs. ’That makes the project feasible. That’s how jve make taxpayer .dollars _spr|ch.” Czarnecki said. “This is something we’ve been talking about the last couple years and we did budget out portion for this project for this year.” Mayor David Tos.sava said. A second future project, for which Czarnecki said lhe city council will see an MDOT contract in the spring, w ill finish the resurfacing of North Michigan lo Woodlawn Avenue. Council members also unanimously approved a request by the Hastings American Legion Post 45 to hold Wednesday’s Veterans Day Ceremony in Veterans Plaza at Tyden Park. The request was made by Brian Shumway, post historian, and Stephan Carr, commander. “This is the same thing they’ve done in the past, and they’ve pretty much told us they will practice social distancing, and everybody there [will] have masks on,” Tossava said. Similarly, Downtown Business Team Chairwoman Lynn Denton was unanimously approved by the council to host “Jingle all the Way to Shop Downtown,” Friday, Dee. 4. from 4 to 8 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 5, from 10 a.m. lo5 p.m. “As a result of lhe full-blown Jingle and Mingle being canceled here due to COVID, lhe Downtown Business Team has requested these items be allowed on Friday and Saturday that typically would be lhe Jingle and Mingle,” lhe city’s community development director Dan King said. The Hastings High School Choir has requested lo sing carols through downtown Friday evening of lhe event. The Downtow n Business Team also plans for John Anderson to play DJ music outside of Al Home Real Estate and lhe Walldorff building Saturday, Dec. 5. from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. “We just want lo create some small reason for people in our area to come and shop local,” Denton wrote in a letter requesting council’s approval. Council members Bill Redman and Don Smith were absent from the meeting. In other business, the council: • Heard a presentation by Allison Troyer Wiswell and Carla Wilson-Neil on Blue Zones Activate Food Systems and information on an upcoming feasibility study and market analy­ sis for a food hall in lhe city of Hastings. Blue Zones promotes healthy living by helping to make healthy, sustainable choices easy and accessible in communities. “The primary goal of Blue Zones is that we’re really looking to optimize the manmade surroundings for sustainable well-being improvement. So, what we know is that long­ term specific diet and exercise things don’t lend to work for lhe majority of lhe popula­ tion.” Wiswell said. “Blue Zones has really worked to shape communities in a way that those healthy choices become lhe easy choice and optimize those environmental offerings.” Wiswell said Blue Zones is interested in creating a food hall in the city of Hastings. Food halls are market-type facilities that could include lhe selling of locally grown foods. food education classes*, restaurants and more; Blue Zones tailors.each food hall to the community it serves based on community feedback and market studies. “’The vision was that we wanted to go down lhe road of exploring what a food hall hub in Hastings might be like.” Wiswell said. “Could that be something that really is a place where people could come together and have access to locally grown products and could enjoy local cider or beer or wine and could allow for a year-round market access.” The first step in (his process is to complete a feasibility study and market analysis to see if a food hall is an economic and community investment worth making. Blue Zones is moving forward with the study and requested the council allow them to include the depart­ ment of public services garage in lhe study, as a potential location for the food hall. Several city council members raised con­ cerns about using the DPS garage in the mar­ ket study. Primarily lhe cost of using (he garage and whether the building itself is suit­ able for a frxxi-bascd facility. “My biggest concern on the DPS garage being turned into anything else actually is the cost of moving us out. because then we have to find a place. [And thalj could end up being a substantial expense to the city.” council member Brenda McNabb-Stange said. Wiswell and Neil noted lhe DPS garage is just one location in Hastings they are looking into as a site for (he food hall. Council members approved (he request lo use the DPS garage in lhe study, under the direction of staff, as a potential food hall loca­ tion. Council members Therese MaupinMoore. Don Bowers and Al Jarvis voted no. • Completed the first reading of an amend­ ed ordinance to allow commercial kennels as a special use in the D-1 industrial district and an amended ordinance lo regulate accessory buildings. • Unanimously appointed Tom Wiswell co the Downtown Development Authority fora partial term expiring Dec. 31.2022. and Dave Hatfield lo the board of review for a partial term expiring Dec. 31. 2020; Wiswell and Hatfield will replace Don Tubbs who recently resigned from those tw o [xysitions. Court date delayed for arson suspect Taylor Owens Staff Writer A probable cause hearing for Keiean Sochor, w ho is suspected of burning down the Royal Coach building in Hastings, has been postponed until 8:15 a.m. Nov. 25. The hearing had been scheduled for Nov. 12 in Ban*) C’ounty District Court. Sochor, 21, ol Hastings, has been charged with third-degree arson in connection w ith the fire that destroyed the Ro>ul Coach building Oct. 7. A conviction on that charge carries up lo 10 years in prison and a fine ol up to three limes the value of the property, according to law enforcement officials. Sochor also was charged with three addi­ tional felonies* preparation to bum property, which carries up to 10 years in prison; and two counts of entry without breaking with intent to commit a crime, which carry up lo five years in pnson. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday. November 12. 2020 — Page 7 # *' Clarence E. Wiley of Middleville: Frank E. Herrington and Albert Woodmansee of Dowling; and William J. Sackett and Spurgeon Wilson of Nashville. Other men who served in the 35th Michigan Infantry, Co. K, were Jay Carson and Glenn Gate of Middleville. Floyd Webster of Hastings, and Lyle A. Williams of Nashville To be continued ... ,00k back at the stories an(J columns on local history ,n Me Has linos Banner turning 1 back the I PAGES Jt& Sources for this series include research by the late Harland and Nyla Nye; Tumi ng Point for America, Irving Wersteine; VFW, September 1998; Hastings Banner archives, 1898 and 1914; Nashville News 1898; New Standard Encyclopedia 1958: The World Book, 1950; Angels of the Battlefield, the Life of Clara Barton. Harper and Brothers, New York, 1956; Michigan Public Acts 1901, 223. Barry County soldiers are ‘good fellows’ Barry County in the Spanish American War, Part III Men from C • Herrington (ce Herrington) Gov. Hazen S. Pingree (left) visits with men at Camp Eaton near Brighton. The following is the third of a six-part series compiled by the late Joyce Weinbrecht and published in the Banner from mid-August to early October 1998. The Spanish-American War was the result of oppression of the Cuban people by Spanish colonists and by the perception of this struggle presented by the “yellow press,” notably William Randolph Hearst’s New York Journal and Joseph C. Pulitzer’s New York World, who were in their own struggle for readers. Both papers printed stories by “on the spot” correspondents. Most of the “eyewitness" accounts were made up. since neither paper had reporters any nearer Havana than Key West, Fla. But blood ran knee-deep in the pages of the yellow' press. So, when the USS Maine blew up in February 1898 in Havana Harbor, it was not surprising that the Americans called for war, and “Remember the Maine" became the battle cry. Some 266 men perished, most died immediately, some by drowning and a few succumbed to their injuries shortly after the explosion. It was never proven if the explosion of the Maine was caused by a mine placed intentionally or by an internal cause. But in 1898, Barry County, with the rest of the country, responded to the call for volunteers, 125,000 men to fight the war in Cuba. Michigan’s National Guard immediately filled up its ranks and proceeded to organize for the trip to Camp Eaton, Island Lake, near Brighton. , . e Some Barry County men who were part of th^nZMirhigOT National Guard Infantry Volunteers Co. B included W.H. Olmstead of Middleville and George Bessmer. Frank Englehart, Milton Murphy, Fred Rock. Gershum Severance, and Homer Washbum, all of Hastings. Local men in Co. H included Carl Bessmer, Corp. Frank Schumann, James Standley and Dell Sutton. Nelson Carveth and Will Osborn, both of Hastings, were with Co. C. of the 32nd Infantry. Jay Mattison of Middleville was in the Michigan 33rd, while Aaron Lichty was in Co. F 34th, and David Lake, Irving, was in Co. I, 34th Michigan. Frank Hamilton of Bedford was in the 34th, as was Reen DuPree, Hickory Comers. The 32nd Michigan Regiment was assigned to the 5th Army Corps under Gen. William Shafter of Galesburg. The 5th Army Corps was to embark on board lhe transport Florida the morning of June 12, 1898. The Florida was involved in a collision with another ship and was disabled. The 5th Army was without transportation to Cuba, and the 32nd was pulled out of the expeditionary force. The 32nd was then transferred to the 6th Army Corps under Maj. Gen. Fitzhugh Lee, and all was pul on hold for them. Meanwhile, they were hearing about Roosevelt’s Rough Riders and lhe attack at Santiago, Cuba. Some of the wounded arrived back in Florida. The 6th Army continued to drill and skirmish, expecting to be sent into battle soon. The practice exercises were not entirely free of problems. Several of the regiments were overcome by heat, and a Corp. Culver of Baltic Creek was badly ’ • egiment include Albert Woodmansee (far right) and Frank E. other three are unknown. (Photo loaned in 1898 by Emmet bunted in the fa« by ?un powder. Men in the 3-nd Regiment each received two pairs of shoes and two undersuits, two blue flannel shirts and hammocks, but nothing happened; they still waned. Camp DeSoto wasn t improving, either. It rained and the camp flooded, filling the tents with water, making the hammocks necessary for sleeping. Cases of both malaria and typhoid fever occurred with regularity. Sixty men reported to sick call July 14, most of them with malaria. Some men who were serving with lhe Regular Army from Bany’ County included Maj. A.D. Kniskem, U.S, Commissary' Department; George H. Rock, naval constructor at Newport News, Va., from Hastings; Cadet James Ackerson, Annapolis Naval Academy, of Middleville; and William A. Hitchcock, with Co. H 7th U.S. Infantry, from Hastings. (Kniskem and Rock would take significant national roles early in World War I as retold in the Banner April 2017.] From Co. K, 2nd U.S. Infantry from Hastings were James Mason and Milo VanAnnan of Hastings, and Frank Giddings, with Co. C. In Co. C of the 17th U.S. Infantry were John Garrison, Hastings; Frank Reynolds, Rutland Township; Albert Hine and John Hine, of Shultz; Dan Gillespie (Troop D. 3rd Cavalry-). Hastings; John Bever and John Beyers, (Troop E. 7th Cavalry). Hastings. Fred Benham of Hastings was with Co. L. 19lh U.S. Infantry'. George A. Galletley of Prairieville also served with lhe 19th. Will Bootes of Hastings was with Co. G 23rd Infantry, and Fred Matthews of Middleville was with the 19th U.S. Infantry. George C. Cook of Troop E, 6th Cavalry', was from Middleville. A.E. Poland, also of the Middleville area,served on the USS Columbia. Another Navy man. I lenry Wickham served on The Nebraska with Dewey’s fleet at Manila. Wickham was from Carlton Township. He was reported as having been wounded in battle before Manila. A telegram was send to M.L. Cook at the Hastings Wool Boot Co., [also co-owner/editor of the Banner] from Congressman Hamilton. Mr. Cook then reported the incident to John Wickham. Henry’s father. John P. Hunsicker was with the 34th Michigan Regiment. He wrote home to Woodland from Camp Eaton June 7, 1898: "34th now at camp Alger. Camp Eaton, June 7,1898. All is consternation around this morning. It is just 6 o'clock and we will leave in two hours for the train. We go to Arlington Heights for our future camp. “Our cars have been standing on the track since Tuesday, but the time has come when we must board them. The new troops will begin to arrive here Friday next. There are not very many people here this morning to give us a sendoff, but the hearts of the people go with us. “Col. Peterman tells us that he thinks we will not stay in Washington very long, but will be sent to the Philippines or to Puerto Rico, news which is welcome to the boys of the 34th. “It is now one hour before we start and I must bidfarewell to the state of Michigan and our friends, John P. Hunsicker” John Chase of Pineville was lhe only Barry County man to die in Cuba; his death caused by yellow lever. [Clarence Wiley, of Rutland Township. * as jUsl 16 when he died Nov. 10, 1898, of disease contracted while in the service. 0^. including Charles Dickinson, Hied wh,£serving. Cholera took Dickinson’s I*fe ,n * while he was in the Philippines.) Others who sen the Spanish-American War were Ora , n!L ‘Warn Osborne, Peter DeCook, Edward Louis C. Lovell, 2nd Lt. Munton. m Morgan, graduated from West Point tn ,and was active at the front, and Conielm* Mann, also was with lhe 7th Regiment. The 34th towttry saw action in Cuba in June and July 1898 --------- --------lhn men and officers of Co. K of the 35lh Michigan Volunteer An official roster mOn in this company were from Barry County. Infantry Regiment. Many Co. D. of *7 .’“a _c8unent. Michigan National Guard. jeered its members and new for volunteers wen 1 hey wan(c<) (o call camp and to war as a unit and were able to do this, more or less. Frank Smith, an employee of The Nashville News and nephew of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Putnam (whose home now houses Putnam District Library in Nashville), enlisted and became a member of Battery E, 4th Artillery. The News would report the death of Frank Smith May 15, 1899, at Fort Monroe, Va., Irom injuries he received al Santiago and a case of spinal meningitis. The 23-year-old veteran would be buried in Lakeview Cemetery with full military honors, the paper reported. In June 1898, other Barry Counly men were getting prepared to serve in CO. K of the 35th. The Nashville News reported that “Lt. O.C. Fountain was in Nashville recruiting men of the 35th Regiment of the Michigan National Guard. Lt. Fountain was assigned the duty of organizing and drilling Barry County’s portion of the men for the 35lh Michigan volunteers. The company was lo be made up of Barry, Eaton and eastern Calhoun counties residents. Mr. Fountain established headquarters in Hastings House, where he enlisted the men. Only single men were enlisted. A recruit had to be between 19 and 30 years of age. He had lo be at least 5 feet tall and in good physical condition. Fountain gave daily drills and instruction so that this company would equal any company in the state. Col. Edwin M. Irish was to command lhe regiment and made the 35th banner for this regiment of Michigan. Capt. R.S. Lockton came to oversee the organization of Co. K. He appointed Robert Mitchell as a corporal, and Robert Lewis was appointed sergeant. Edwin D. Mallory of Nashville was made quartermaster sergeant and put in charge of all the supplies of clothing and food. Capt. Lockton of Marshall wrote a complimentary letter July 18,1898, to William R. Cook, which was printed in the Hastings Banner. Lockton died three months later at a hospital in Philadelphia, his death caused by typhoid fever. His body was taken to Marshall for burial, and two Hastings men. Judge Clement Smith and Philo A. Sheldon, attended lhe funeral. This was because so many Barry County boys were under Lockton’s command and for his courteous treatment and kind attention to the boys, who included Philo Sheldon’s son, Henry. Men in Co. K, 35th Regiment, Michigan Volunteer Infantry also included 1st Sgt. Dale A. Smith; sergeants Edwin D. Mallory, Nashville; Robert Lewis. Hastings; Edwin W. Grants, Corp. William H. Ryan, Middleville; and Harley M. Andrus, Hastings. William D. McDonald of Hastings was the quartermaster. Privates of Co. K were Thomas M. Batey; Hany' J. Beech, Lemuel Bishop, Frank H. Barnaby, Harlow G. Carter Jr. Albert H. Carveth, William H. Douglas. Ernest Keech, Albert E. Miller, Henry S. Sheldon and Simon W. Smith of Hastings; Charles J. Corson. William H. Dickens, Lodie W. Fenton, Elmer McNee, Earl H. Pryor, Henry D. Root and NOTICE: SEEKING Capt. Richard S. Lockton of Marshall oversaw the organization of Co. K of the 35th Michigan Volunteers in 1898, a company to which many Barry County men belonged. Lockton corresponded with Banner co-owner/ editor William R. Cook, who published a letter in mid-July. Lockton would succumb to typhoid fever in late October. From Island Lake: Capt. Lockton compliments Barry County Boys Camp Eaton. July 18. 1898 Will R. Cook, Hastings. Mich. Dear Sir, I received several letters from you during the past two weeks, lo some of which I did not reply for lack of time, being fully occupied in completing lhe organization of the company. First, I must thank you for your interest in our company and your assistance in sending on recruits, which helped us to complete a company with material, of which we may be proud. The boys whom Barry County has sent to Company K are one and all good fellows of whom too much cannot be said. Some people seem to think that any man who is good for nothing else will do for a soldier, but it will be an evil day for our country when the honor of her flag is entrusted to any but lhe best and worthiest in the land. I appointed Robert Mitchell [of Irving] a corpora! because of his personal merit. He has been assisting me in making muster rolls and clerical work and is a conscientious and competent man. Mr. [Robert] Lewis of Hastings has shown splendid ability to drill and ability to command, and 1 have appointed him sergeant. He is showing marked military ability and giving the best satisfaction. One other Barry County man is beyond all praise. Edwin D. Mallory [of Nashville], quartermaster sergeant, has charge of all supplies of clothing and food, and I believe he is the very best quartermaster in lhe whole regiment. He is a great favorite with lhe boys, for they know that they can depend on him to get for them all they are entitled to and, if possible, a little more. The boys are all doing well, and if some of your people could visit us. I think you would return more proud of your stale and of your boys.’ Yours truly, R.S. Lockton Erikka Summer Makowski. Middleville and Diana Catalina Gheorghiu. Grand Rapids Cory Wayne Nicholson, Mulliken and Amber Marie Huisman, Delton APPMCATIONS FOR YQLVNIEERS The Barry County Board of Commissioners^ seeking applications from • volunteers to serve on the following Boards/ Animal Shelter: 4 citizen at large Sulldlng-AulhMltm 1 P°sl'l°n ConssrvatlQn_EasemenLBoafd. >e h. agrlcultura| interest, » conservation Interest Cammlsslgn-an-Afllnfr * Sy * n^Board: 1 each: general public, service ^TnSc^tS^ness community, criminal defense attorney, workforce community ssssr/X- i.™. au hp ohiained at the County Administration Office, 3rd floor of the Applications may uj. S|, Hastings; or i«w.baaycounty4>rg under the tab: Courthouse, DOS|(jOn on an Advisory Board or Commission and click on How do I apply 'Of- rg\umell n0 later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, November 16, |PP^: ^niaci 269-945-1284 tor more information. , W7n �Financial FOCUS Andrew Cove, AAMS® Member SIPC Elaine Garlock With the ongoing results of l^e J situation, events continue to be canceled o postponed. A few weeks ago, we wrote about t k tree with large girth in the yard of Lynda Warner. The remaining tall tt'ink. w v at one time looked like a giant slmg* 0 • now been cut down. Ils diameter . 48 inches. The circumference was Ieight inches. Three men worked the the day slicing the trunk and then sp 1 circles into stove-size firewood, t ‘ many stove fires to bum this mue i w ■ The village vacuum truck sucking up leaves ail over to»n of leaves have gone mto its hopixt luvmji th streetsides clear. Homeowners abo have been busy using their mowers or blowers to get lhe leaves streclsidc either in long rows or in paper hags Many '“''‘""uilHiH i in bushes and branches where they will l><- in «ait until the lawns arc clear and then bushes uill slowly discharge the leaves into the eleanswept lawns to remind us that they get the last word. . The State Journal had in an inconspicuous spot an article about two winners in Lotto 47 for this week. The previous high stake was $23.6 million in February 2008 with a Macomb County winner. This time, two players will split a much higher stake, S32.3 million. The two players each picked the same scries of winning numbers. 04-16-33-38-40­ 44. One ticket was sold at a Ferndale wine shop and the other at the shell station in Lake Odessa on M-50 al Second Avenue. If history repeals itself, there should be a large influx of ticket buyers al the station. This is often lhe case when a big winner hits lhe jackpot at a certain location. Now we shall see who has the winner, a local person or a person driving on the slate highway who just happened to buy a ticket along with gasoline. BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION The Barry County Road Commission is offering for sale the following radio system items: (75) Motorola XPR 4000/5000 Mobile VHF Band Radios, all miscellaneous parts (1) MTR 3000 Base Radio Repeater (3) Base Units - Various Models (1) Radio Tower w/ Antenna Note: Radio tower is approximately 150' high. Winning bidder to remove tower. (10) CP200 Motorola Hand Held Radios w/batteries and chargers Sealed proposals will be received at the office of the Barry County Road Commission, 1725 West M-43 Highway, P.O. Box 158, Hastings, Ml 49058, until 10:30 AM, Monday, November 30. 2020. Additional information may be obtained at the Road Commission Office at 269­ 945-3449 or at our website wwAv.barrycrc.org. please make an appointment for all viewings of the radios. NOTE: Radio system will be sold as is where is. Bidding can be done on individual items or as one unit. Due to CO VID 19 the opening will be done by Zoom Meeting on November 30^ at 11:00 A.M. hftps;//zoom.us/j/96547322094?pwd=Y1FjWHZndTlaMIZ 6Rk5SSXNLQ21LUT09 passcode: radio2O, or by phone (301)715-8592, Meeting ID: 965 4732 2094. The board reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or to waive irregulanties in the best interest of the Commission. PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE NOTICE OF INTENT (POSSIBLE) TO USE A VIRTUAL PLATFORM FOR PUBLIC HEARING TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF PRAI­ RIEVILLE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN. AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will be held on December 2, 2020 commencing at 7:00 p.m. at the Prairieville Township Hall, 10115 S. Norris Rd., Delton Ml, 49046 within the Township, as required under the provisions of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act and the Zoning Ordinance for the Township. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to any State of Michigan legislative changes to the Open Meetings Act, the Township Zoning Board of Appeals may hold its meeting [including public hearing) electronically, in order to limit in person government activities, to protect critical infrastructure workers to the extent possible. If the meeting is held electronically, information to electronically attend the meeting will be posted on the Township's website at http://www.prairievilletwp-mi.org. In addition to participation during an electronically held public hearing, members of the public may also provide comments for the Zoning Board of Appeal’s consideration by emailing or mailing those comments to the Zoning Board of Appeal’s for receipt prior to the meeting, in care of the Township Zoning Administrator, Eric Thompson (ethqmp5pn@p_ciniixcprn) or by leav­ ing a phone message prior to the meeting with the Township Zoning Administrator, Eric Thompson at 269-948-4088. pl FAAF TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered al said public hearing include, in brief, the following: 1. 2 3 A request from Nugent Builders on behalf of property owner, Dattilo Investments LLC., 51152 Sunday Dr., Northville. Ml 48167, for a variance to allow for the construction of a deck on the lakeside of the homo failing lo meet the front yard setback requiremonts pursuant to section 4.24 “Waterfront Lots”. The subject site is located at 11990 Oakridge Dr. Plainwell Ml 49080., Parcel # 08-12-190-021-00 and is currently zoned R-2 - Residential. A request from property owner Hugh Stonebumer, 14181 Burchett Rd., Plain­ well, Ml 49080, for variance to allow for creation of a now parcel of land that fails to me the lot width/road frontage requiremonts. The subject site is located at 14181 Burchette Rd., Plainwell, Ml 49080., Parcel # 08-12-029-012-00 and is zoned A - Agricultural. Such other business as may properly come before the Zoning Board of Appeals. Kevin Bcck.AAMS® 400 V/. state St., Suite B Hastings, Ml 49058 (269)945-4702 Prairieville Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and servirpq to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (4) days’ prior notice to the TAwnkhiD Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or sen/ices should contact the Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. Nancy Lechleitner turns 80 Nancy Lechleitner, who retired from Ace, turns 80 on November 16. Cards may be sent to 1821 E. Center Road, Hastings, M| 4905g, Barry ISD receives good audit report, sets goals Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Barry Intermediate School District officials received “clean opinions, all around” on their most recent audit, Steve Thompson, a certi­ fied public accountant, told the intermediate schools’ Board of Education Tuesday morn­ ing. Thompson recommended district officials keep a close eye on the general fund, saying that fund balance is a bit light. The district started the 2019-20 school year with a fund balance of $245356 and ended lhe year with a balance of $185,664. Board members met in person for lhe regu­ lar monthly meeting at (he intermediate dis­ trict offices. During the meeting, they approved the following district and superin­ tendent goals for the 2020-21 school year. District: Develop, implement, and report an annual program evaluation process for district programs, to include strengths, areas of improvement; evalnwion metrics, conclu­ sions, and future plans. Professional development: Provide staff two professional.development opportunities during the school year to improve instruction­ al skills for individual education plan (1EP) math and English language arts objectives; provide two professional development oppor­ tunities during the school year to improve non-academic I EP objectives; research two best practices for improving academic and non-academic student 1F.P achievement: con­ duct an annual security review and training to ensure buildings are safe and only those authorized are granted access; develop and convene a task force with both constituent districts in the 2020-21 school year to expand vocational offerings to all students. Superintendent: Visit each intermediate school district classroom at least once a quar­ ter, attend two school board meetings ot each constituent district each school year and pro­ vide one presentation on services and pro­ grams provided by the intermediate district: and attend three public functions in each constituent district during the 2020-21 school year. In other business, the board: • Re-approved the district retum-to-leam plan with no changes. • Accepted a NEOLA policy update on threatening student behavior toward staff. • Approved a resolution authorizing super­ intendent emergency power during the CO VID-19 pandemic. LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRT notice to creditors ^CEDENT'S ESTATE By: Dale Grimes, Chairperson Prairieville Township Hall 11015 S. Norris Rd. Delton, Michigan 49046 (269) 623-2064 NOTICE TO CREDITORS. The deced^l.Gone F. Wake, died 12-14-20 in> ’ Creditors of the thal al! ^im5 against the X fcr^r unless presented al® wi!, P«s0"aJ fepresentative, or m K Darrell court 20b West Court Street the 49050 und Personal ninths after ^fiateofpubS^®^ ? PRAIRIEVILLE TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS Date: 11-4-2020 n n0,lC° Shane A. Henry 21 West Apple Michigan^01’0 101 2^'945-35l2 *** 150942 .. , -U-lU/iirnG n Protect your finances from “cyberthieves gsKSKgftsffl-”--1 All interested persons are invited to be present at the aforesaid time and place, or if an electronic meeting is held, to participate via the electronic meeting. 421 W. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-3553 M ?.9 Dounun Drive 616^i',5^2Ch’W 49333 150803 You’ve no doubt heard reports of personal data being Molen and used for financial fraud - anything from online ■shopping on your credit cards to actual theft from your financial accounts. This problem won’t go away anytime soon - but you can take steps lo defend yourself. Here are a few suggestions: • Use multifactor authentication or other extra security options with online accounts. Many of your online accounts offer extra security by giving you the option to prove your identity in different ways. With mutifactor authentication, you must provide at least two different factors to prove jour identity when you log in to an account. This additional layer of security provides you with much greater protection. • Be creative with passwords. Create different passwords for work, financial services sites, social media and email - and give each password some length and complexity. Consider passphrases - actual words combined with symbols and numbers (for example, “ThislsAPassphrase!2468”), for sites that allow them. • Protect your computer ami your key data. Keep your antivirus software updated. And don’t install bootleg or unlicensed software, which could infect your computer with a virus. Also, back up your important data. for ■Watch ‘ * out . fake websites or apps. financial When making transactions, be sure you re on lhe website of your bank or financial institution -- and not on a fake site established by hackers. Your financial statements should have the legitimate website, so bookmark it and use it when doing anything with your accounts. Also, be careful when downloading apps - stick with those from established providers such as Google Play or the App Store. •Avoid “over-sharing" on social media. Cyberthieves constantly stalk social media platforms for information they can use to commit their crimes. You can help stymie them by limiting what you share online. It’s a good idea to keep your full name, address and birthday private. You might also avoid discussing your plans for upcoming vacations. And review jour privacy settings periodically so that only people you know or approve can sec your information. • Limit use of public Wi­ Fi. Hackers often set up their own Wi-Fi networks in public areas, such as the computers found in hotel business centers. Ask an employee for the name of lhe legitimate network. And even when you use it, log oft' when you’re finished. . Doni take the bait of Cyberthieves •■Miters." Cyberthieves ..<> "phishing” for sensitive information account and passwords by sending numbers communications. such as emails, purporting to be from a business or financial institution with which you often do business. They may claim your account was “suspended” or that an “unauthorized transaction” was made, and you’ll be asked to click on a link (hat takes you to what appears to be the company’s website. If you go along with this request, you could find malicious software being downloaded on your computer. But legitimate businesses generally won t ask for account numbers or passwords unless you initiate the transaction. Other signs of phishing include threatening language, “urgent” requests, misspelled words or odd word choices. If an email does look suspicious to you. delete it without opening it. This list is not exhaustive, but by putting these steps to work, you can al least reduce lhe risk of becoming victimized by cybercriminals. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC Seeking fife source ©if a virus Dear Dr. Universe: / heard a little bit about how COVID-19 started, but I don’t know much about it. What happened? Colleen. 10. Louisa, Va. Dear Colleen, It turns out scientists around lhe world are investigating this very question. Il’s likely lhe coronavirus that causes COVID-19. or SARS-CoV-2. started in an animal before jumping to humans. But exactly how it all happened is still a kind of mystery. Thai’s what J found out from my friend Michael Letko. a researcher at Washington Stale University who studies viruses and how they cross different species. “We don't have all the details sorted out for this one, but basically, we can assume it starts in one animal and somehow gets to us. That ‘somehow’ is the challenging part,” he said. When we first learned about SARSCoV-2, scientists swabbed and tested differ­ ent animals in the wild and al markets to see if they could track down the virus. Some of these “virus hunters” looked for the virus in pangolins, a mammal that has homy scales, long snout and sticky tongue for catching bugs. Meanwhile, other scientists looked at an animal that has transmitted other kinds of coronaviruses: bats. Bats live in really big groups. Hundreds to thousands of bats can all live together, which can create an environment where viruses can spread. “There’s so many challenges that lhe chances of you ever finding a bat that has this exact coronas inis is like finding a nee­ dle in the haystack,” Letko said. While people may not come into contact with bats very often, other animals do. For instance, when scientists learned about a coronavirus called MERS they traced the virus back to camels. But bats actually first passed the virus to the camels. When scientists look at connections between different animal species, they can start to learn more about how viruses infect humans. They can start to piece together how the virus spreads. But it isn’t always an easy task. Letko said sometimes tracking down a virus is about being nt lhe right place at the right time and looking at lhe right animal. It can take a long time lo find answers, and sometimes we are left with unknowns. “It can be super quick or it can be the virus hunt of the century,” Letko said. While we are still learning about lhe source of SARS-CoV-2, we do know there are ways lo help prevent it from spreading among humans who can get sick from the virus. When you wear a proper face mask, prac­ tice social distancing and wash your hands frequently, you help prevent lhe virus from spreading to jou and those around you While we do our part to help prevent the virus from spreading. it’s also great lo know hat scientists like letko are helping us earn more about viruses so we can respond to. and maybe even prevent, future pandemWho knows, maybe one day you will ^Twhere :n'iS' W,’° hd|K US about where xiruses come from. loo. Dr. Universe yon lune a que,tion? Dr Universe. Semi an email w i State Univeran-y rej 'i“',"nft'on miter at »r.Unh(.,5e(ii /v,( ' ‘ . a"‘/ "• I’vite. uvldruniver... ' V'S" ,,er �One T®nth "b Hastings’ r . Staff Whtcr Iritvis late is the City of ■ jepaitmeni of public works <r Sommendcd for (he agy The Hastings Banner — Thursday. November <2, 2020 - • P?ig ‘ 9 ne^ close”'1 .• slinKs' new He Verne Robi,,^ will. Jim Pe,lhiln^sHkm Manager Jerry Czarnecki wh Cil* ; ^y council at its Sept. 14 . .?• spo^c to the jjjd his qualifications. ,n® a^°ut Pate . my privilege lo JUst makmg ,„,v issuL and dealing_ » *-j -I rcl need my .•memion.” Ia indents J°n the eiiv’sn'<’s,l‘K .esiions - j ,n,fw">»'mn. pmlocol and J"n James „n(1 h • ^-k.Ttavis brings ._;a1,I1'h^last Xexpcnence to the position ” oh ,;5 ><-ars : Iras is bas worked h, the Silid before on a project when he w« r J,aMln8s Verne Rob'"'; , ,.|iallenge of ••I enjoy lb" h mieX|X.t| ^'"t: a new job. dealing “ of ch.1()s ‘ '•'«>es and creating completely b, dldll"; 1,01 knowing my du"' |jin(.>.»in Understand is looking for a situa(i m..n^..nlansitioninloa(Ihisp,nflH Originally front Oceana Conmv t„. i lived in Kentwood with his wife of'l6 vew Micb'lo. and two ix>ys. .bughierBrietm.'vh0 >CiUX IalC also has “ Travis Tate said. ’Well. I was learning a new job and new people and then we had that big fire.” Much of his first month has been about At 47 Tate was ready for a switch in his learning, he said — learning about his new csreer and hoped to move out of the city to a position, co-workers, responsibilities and the more rural community. “Being in a small town in a rural county city of Hastings itself. “It is a different role that I’ve never had Mixing, really, it s really an attractive feature before. And I haven’t worked for any for me. Tate said during the Sept. 14 virtual municipality before.” Tate said. “I think I’m meeting. “Hastings is a wonderful town I’ve fitting in pretty good around here and I’m had a chance to work there are visit there and starting to understand the process of what my I think it’s just a wonderful small town. I’ve job is — so far. so good.” had a lot of engineering experience with city. Tate has a bachelor’s degree in civil type projects for several, several yean, - all engineering from Michigan Technological kinds of roads and utility projects, site plans. University and has worked for several West Pretty much every thing that you’re going to Michigan engineering firms — Williams and need. So. I hope 1 can give you some eocxl Works. C2AE. OMM Engineering Inc. — for experience and some knowledge and some the better part of lhe past two decades. dedication.” Before he joined the City of Hastings, l ate The city council unanimously approved worked al Dan Vos Construction Co. and had Tate’s appointment and. as of today, it’s been worked on city projects for municipalities. one month since Tate began his role — and he ”I had done a little bit of working with got ofi*to quite the start. cities and townships and doing water and His third day on the job. the largest blaze sewer and road jobs,” Tate said. “I wanted to seen in Hastings in decades destroyed the see what it was like to be on this side of lhe former Royal Coach factory building. Tate profession.” said he was amazed at how well firefighters “I was excited about it.” and other public employees handled the fire. Talc's main responsibility as DPS director “The first week was pretty hectic ” he is to oversee the day-to-day operations of the Spectrum Health announces new visitor changes lumbers reduced for visits in hospitals and outpatient care sites As the number of cases and positivity rales of COVID-19 continue to climb in lhe com­ munity. Spectrum Health is seeing significant increases of patients being admitted to its hospitals and, as a result, is announcing immediate changes lo its visitor policies. the health sy stem announces changes to its visitor policies. The revisions are intended to reduce the number of people in its Grand Rapids and regional hospitals and outpatient care sites in order to help prevent lhe spread of illness and protect patients, health care workers and our communities. Effective 6 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 12. adult patients are allowed no family members or visitors, unless they have cognitive impair­ ment or need significant assistance with lhe activities of daily living. Those with excep­ tions must have the same visitor during their entire stay. The following exceptions will apply: Patients with COVID-19 are not allowed in-person visitors, however the care team will work with patients and families to coordinate virtual visits. Labor and delivery obstetrics patients arc allowed one adult family member or visitor. Intensive care unit (ICU) patients may have one adult family member or visitor between the hours of 6 a.m. and 9 pan. Hospital surgical patients may have one adult family member or visitor in the surgical waiting area during the time ol surgery. Emergency department patients with cogni­ tive impairments are allowed one adult family member or visitor. Outpatient radiology, lab, rehabilitation patients with cognitive impairments or who need physical assistance are allowed one adult Patients a! Spectrum Health Medical Group physician offices, urgent care, surgical and endoscopy centers are allowed one family member or visitor. For pediatric patients, the following excep­ tions remain in place: Pediatric hospital and emergency depart­ ment patients under the age of 21 are allowed two adult family members or guests per patient stay. For pediatric outpatient services, physician offices and surgery, pediatric patients arc allowed one adult family member or guest per patient visit. Pediatric radiology patients are allowed one adult family member or guest per patient. The new restrictions apply to Spectrum Health Pennock in Hastings along with the following Spectrum Health hospitals and nearby Spectrum Health Medical Group phy­ sician offices and ambulatory care sites: Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital Spectrum Health Blodgett Hospital Spectrum Health Helen De Vos Children’s Hospital Spectrum Health Fred and Lena Meijer Heart Center Spectrum Health Lemmen-Hollon Cancer Pavilion Spectrum Health Big Rapids Hospital Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial Spectrum Health Kelsey Hospital Spectrum Health Ludington Hospital Spectrum Health Reed City Hospital Spectrum Health United Hospital Spectrum Health Zeeland Community Hospital In addition, to prevent the spread of coro­ navirus, all visitors are screened and are required to wear a mask that covers their mouth and nose to enter the hospitals and outpatient facilities. Spectrum Health dining rooms will be closed to visitors. Hospital food sendee will be available in the cafeteria through to-go orders. family member or visitor. Hastings receives national award for its water system Sophie Bates Staff Writer The City of Hastings received a W. t fluoridation Quality Award Hom Ok. Centers for Disease Control and ITeycnto Nov. 5 for maintaining a consistent kn I ol fluoridated water throughout 201 ■ *M conferred on 1323 water systems m ^Fluoridation is the adjustmentI of fluoride io the water to a level that is op i Anting tooth decay,” according of -elease from the Mtcb.gan Dep.r ntentj Health and Human Services- 0 t |)llb|ic Mzed by CDC as one «PCDC ««dth achievements of the 'H’ointnends waler Huon ” of prcventActive and inexpensive> n>e hod ot J decay. In <“[. every* f<jr dvnta| “•bon saves at least $3° ^hnem.” . £ received (he bather this year- ’’“.“"fluoridated water award for consistently *2018. ‘This is kind of a P* ‘ ?irector enjoying new role ‘You guys are doing exactly what we asked you to do.’” City Manager Jerry Czarnecki said, Hastings is not the only Michigan waler system to earn this award. Seventy-one other Michigan water sy stems received the national award, including the neighboring Battle Creek-Verona, Lowell, Plainwell Township, Eaton Rapids and Grand Rapids water sys­ tems. Ninety percent of Michigan’s population using community water systems have access to fluoridated water, MDHILS Chief Medical Executive and Chief Deputy lor Health Dr. Joneigh Khaldun said in lhe MDHHS press release. ‘This year, wc | Michigan | had a 26 percent increase in lhe number of award recipients." Khaldun said. “These awards demonstrate the commitment to quality by these community water systems. Waler fluoridation has demon­ strated its effectiveness in preventing tooth decay throughout one’s lifetime and benefits all residents.” on upgrades a unique^ lrealn,cnt nl’int said Tate bnHr ?Ut perspective to L nowlcdge of his the DPS and res!** ' ***"'■ K':u n is going amazing. Travis — with his sl,unp engineering background — brings a ‘n>ique perspective to the department of public vrvtce,” James said. “He has a strong ^derstandof the engineering and construction 01 <>‘ir projects.” ' We've just been blessed with great people die city and each of our directors have r°Ught something great,” James added. Currently, Tate and the DPS arc working on two |arge projects — one is the wastewater bi’atnient plant. UPS is adding an instrument lo the treatment facility which will filter out grit, towels, moist towelettes and rags. Tate said these materials have been causing problems at the plant. He is also working on what will be the total reconstruction of Michigan Street north °1 the bridge over the Thornapple River. The P^jecl is still in the early stages of bidding m most project Alfies are still unknm — so specifics are still unknown — but construction will likely start in spring 2021 Overall, Tate said he’s been impressed with the City of Hastings and the dedication it’s employees bring and the knowledge they possess. “I was looking for something a little more exciting and I’ll have to say I was really impressed with the city manager and the street superintendent's innovation,” Tate said. “Not just their innovation, but their positive energy I mean as far as I would say they arc really good at trying to invite news ways of doing something.” While late and his family have yet to move to Hastings. Tale enjoys working in Hastings. “I like the people I work with, they have all been welcoming and supportive.” Tate said. “I do really like it here. I like the people. I like my commute.” Hastings Middle School releases honor roll Hastings enounced it first honor roll ot th - -- -U academic year. Students in sb'th Lh c'ghlh grades qualify for the honor ro by earning cither all A grades, referred to «-s the Irincipal’s List, or all A and B grades. Students who qualified for the first quarter .. , Sixth grade Princip<il’\^si^All As Olivia Allen, Meredith Ansorge. Ava Arens, Brcnnen Armstrong, Owen Boge. Ashton Brubaker. Jaylen Hamilton, Sadie Hanford, Ethan Hawthorne. Brissa HernandezHernandez, Gabr}'ell‘i Juskewicz. Cordelia Kniaz. Caleb Kramer. Tori Morgan. Ava Patterson. Zachary Patterson, Caroline Randall. Grady Reed, Mallory Rohe. Kayanna Santana, Donald Smith. Irenidee Snider, Annika Solmes. Hannah Sorensen. Allison Tefft. Emma Warner. Raegan Wattles and Jack Webb. A’s and B’s Kyra Bishop. Lily Bishop, Onilee Bolo. Quincy Brown, Kelly Burhans. Reilly Campbell. Benjamin Carl, Sydnie Diljak. Lilianna Enyart, Maya Fleming, Petra Foster, lyier Frazer, Bella Friddle. Robert Gonzales, Melanie Gonzalez Castelan, lx>ht Grego, Kennedy Hall. Misha Haskin, Isaiah Hendershot, Ava Herbert. Sierra Hester. Evan Jacobs, colt Jousma, Madison Killian, Aubree Lambert. Jacob Lewis. Reese Loftus, Riley Luna. Aiden Mays, Megan McConnon, Drew McDonald, Starlit Meek, Hannah Merrick, Grace? Miller, ShawpnN’orton, Olivia Orns, Brody Peak, Berenice Perez-Hernandez. Damion Philo. William Renner IV. Logan Rohe. Cassie Rosenberg, Lucy Shafer, Aiden Smith, Madison Stora, Kendra Taylor, Melanie Westbrook, Spencer Wilkins, Madison Wilson and Maralayna Young. Seventh grade Principal's List - All A s Annemarie Allerding. Ashlyn Bailey. Olivia Bucher. Aiden Byle. Shiloh Crandall. Lynn Cross, Matthew Domenico, Lauren Gee, Riley Herron. Ethan Holman. Daniel Jensen, Carter Krzysik, Adriana Meyers, Josalyn Russell. Jackson Sensiba, Matthew Shults, Brayden Thielen, Collin Tossava and Mazie include: Waterman. A’s and B’s Arika Alexander. Aden Armstrong, Gavyn Avila. Adeline Carey. Hope Carley. Arabella Cassini, Madison Chipman, Ellie Cousins, Spencer Crozier, Colten Denton. Bronson Elliott. Madison Elzinga, Olivia Goodrich. Sophia Greenfield, Mary Johnson, Kyle Jousma, Caleb Kilmer. Alexander Kohmescher, Rylee Meece. Jadalic Miller, Claudia Minch. Kaylee Owen, Madilynn Peake. Joaquin Peterson, Cayden Pettengill. Hayle Rivera, Eva Rowley, Alyxis Rudd, Avayla Rybiski. Dcagan Sanders, Scott Sanders. William Shrubb, Bayley Smith, Natalie Snyder, Isabelle Stanton, Nathan 1 raver. Malachi VanEngcn, Angelina Waterman and Grade Wilson. Eighth grade Principal's List -AU As Tanner Armstrong. Jett Barnum, Zoey Bennett. Andrew Cook. Brianna Darling, Isabel Gee. Jaiyn Grimes, Logan Henry. Rachael Hewitt. Gage Holtrust, Micah Johnson. Logan Kerby, Kennedy Lewis, Jordan Milanowski, Alyson Miller. Hayley Miller. Kyle Morgan. Seth Pirtle. Elijah Randall, Brennan Reser, Bandon Simmons, Lilyah Solmes, Melany Vargas. Zoe Watson, Memphis White and Linda Wright. A’s and B’s Tanner Allerding, Christian Boniface, Abigayl Bower. Taylor Casey, Madisen Diekhoff. Tristin Eaton. Ella Ferguson, Alex Flikkema, Benjamin Furrow. JoDee Gaskill. Carson Gates. Madelyn Gilbert. Andrew Haines. Miya Hamilton, Alyssa Hartman. Isabella Harvath, Makaila Hawkins. /Xddison Henney, Meya Hughes. Jordan Humphrey. Brett Johnson. Sebastian Johnson, Nicholas Kane. Danica Keeny. Isabella Kensington. Rachel King. Donald Kuck. Dawson Lewis,* Miles Lipsey. Deondre Mathis. Maelynn Miller. Mia Miller, Keegan Nicholson, Ashley Norris, Travis Oliver, Alisandra Pearlman, Abigail Scott. Nicklas Stehr, Brooklyn Strickland. Victoria Tack, Kaydence VanDenBcrg. Quinn Waddell and Jordyn Winters. Notice of Branch Merger Application Notice is hereby given that Mercantile Bank of Michigan, 310 Leonard, NW, Grand Rapids, Ml 49504 has filed an application with the FDIC to sell the Mercantile Bank Hastings Branch located at 1500 W M-43 Hwy, Hastings, Ml 49058 to Lake Trust Credit Union, 4605 S Old US Hwy 23, Brighton, Ml 48114. Any person wishing to comment on this application may file his or her comments in writing with the regional director of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation at the FDIC office, 300 S Riverside Plaza, Suite 1700, Chicago, IL 60606 not later than December 14, 2020. The nonconfidential portions of the application are on file at the appropriate FDIC office and are available for public inspection during regular business hours. Photocopies of the nonconfidential portion of the application file will be made available upon request. Published: November 12, 2020 15082! RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NPTICJLOF planning commission public hearing on proposed zoning text AMENDMENTS AT DECEMBER 2, 2020 MEETING THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF RUTLAND, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ALL OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE the Rutland Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing at its regular meeting on December 2, 2020 at 7:30 p.m. at the Rutland Charter Township Hall located at 2461 Heath Road, within the Charter Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan. The items to be considered at this public hearing include the following proposed amendments of the designated text section within Chapter 220 (Zoning) of the Rutland Charter Township Code of ordinances: On application of Excelling Leaders, §220-2-2 (Definitions) is proposed to be amended lo add a definition for the term “Rural Retreat”. 2On application of Excelling Leaders, §220-4-3 pertaining to the enumerated special land uses in the AG/OS Agricultural/Open Space Preservation District is proposed to be amended lo add Rural Retreat” as subsection W (and re-letter existing subsection W to be subsection X). 3* §220-17-3 pertaining to temporary use of a recreation vehicle as a dwelling is proposed to be amen e by replacing existing subsection C with new provisions relating to zoning approval for one recrea ion Chicle to be temporarily occupied as a dwelling on a lot in any district where single family owe nng a designated permitted use, in circumstances where (1) the recreation vehicle !s prop£^g sub;ect Occupied for temporary non-commercial purposes associated with recreational activities on ® Property or for personal visitation with the occupant of the permanent dwelling on the su je and where (2) the recreation vehicle is proposed to be temporarily occupied dunn9 c°n cond^ons Permanent dwelling on the same lol; in each circumstance subject to specified terms a d.stnncjnale Township is requesting persons attending this meeting observe such Coyi - . by proteefions as may stjl, be py aRy admin|Stfativye orrJer of lhe State * TO: Township p icy. Written comments concerning the above matters may be mailed to t16 further be C H d I hU‘land Chartef T°WnShiP Ha" a' a'’y 'ime Pri°r '° ’hiS PUb"C heann9/n’ 9' subm' eThe R,„Plailnin9 Commission at the public hearing/meeting. abOve-referenced proposed _ inn text an? and Char,er lownship Code, Master Plan, and lhe tentative Itext . c|erk a( lhe Township U°'|| rfurina ren andmcnl<s). may be examined by contacting the RutlandI Cha shi offees (ronl anc| after the Ha'.d“,inn of9.k ar busi"ess hours on regular business days maintained by the ■ P examined at publication of this Notice an(J unt|| and of the hearing/meetmg. and further y lhe beanngftneeUng amendments at or . n inn the h°Wr,stliP Planning Commission reserves the right to mo y • Township Board. (Oiiowi g eanng/meeting and to make its recommendations accord y and sefvices a| the ine0|,ng/ nn m inrk dJc,larter Township will provide necessary reasona ■> ‘ • an(j alKjiotapes ol printed materials 10ar‘ nOnsiderpaUalS W'"’disabililies- such as s'9ne,s for.lha inXiduals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or bcing con-. e ed, upon r0asonabie notice to the Township Individuals services s uid th0 Tovvnshjp ciwk fls deslgnalcd betow Hawi|)ornf) C|erk Rutland Charter Township 2461 Heath Road _ Hastings, Michigan 49058 269) 948-2194 �pago 10 — Thursday, November 12,2020 — The Hastes Banner _oJI «| M Star Elementary students write to seniors in lockdown Sophie Bates Staff Writer In the eerie quiet of a school whose have boarded buses and left for home, Kris Allen moved about the front oft ice o Elementary, reflecting on her cLiy. It was gorgeous outside, and the *cCIT.. ’ — better known around school ft* M*­ - was looking forward to the weekendI atu a busy day She gazed outside at the sunhghl peering out behind autumn clouds. s glimpsed a flare of bngM .„H| contrast with the vivid red-. . orangesofa Michigan fallblue. She looked closer and saw a v b star-shaped balloon floating of sky, its* shiny exterior reflecimg rajs sunshine. . . lot of Hie balloon landed in So Allen Star Elementary School tn Hasting ^X^^offoumey An estimated 250 letters were sent to Journey Senior Living to be opened by the 38 residents living at the suburban Chicago facility. The letters were written by Star ele­ mentary students of all ages, leading to a variety of drawings, stories and topics in the letters. Senior Living. Principal Amy Allen took the note to rnm P / dT^lo wX letters^ ume ^d curriculum 7] Star Elementary students (from left) Alexis Campbell, first grade; Cheyenne Smith, fourth grade; Alyssa Greene, fifth grade; Rio Elwood, first grade; and Kendyl Hinkie. fifth grade, pose outside school as Elwood holds up the balloon and note from Journey Senior Living. I I b- week. goTeaiDind write some letters, < ,il?r said -We had no idea how many (students) would respond or how many would even have time. v "It was very' informal. TVo days earlier, and 162 miles away in Merrillville, Ind., the staff and residents at Journey Senior Living were celebrating National Have a Cup of Coffee with a Cop r They gave away coffee and doughnuts lo law enforcement officers in a drive-through procession - finding a way to have fun despite lhe limitations imposed on them by lhe COVID-19 pandemic. They decorated with signs reading "We love you and we thank you for your services" and balloons of different colors and designs: red. white, blue, striped and star-shaped. ■ Vi As afternoon faded. Rebekah Thomason, the life enrichment director at Journey Senior Living, began tearing down the decorations. "I didn’t want to just pop the balloons and throw' them away,” Thomason said. She thought back to elementary school, when she and her classmates had stapled small notes to balloons and sent them off. hoping for a response. ”1 thought that would be cool to do with the residents.” Thomason took six of the facility’s residents to lhe courtyard and handed them each a note­ laden balloon. Together, they released lhe balloons and watched .as the helium-filled messengers faded into lhe blue autumn sky. Like sailors lost at sea, rolling parchment notes into bottles,Thomason and her residents wondered if anyone would find their notes. And. if someone did, would they care enough Linda, 73, and Charles, 94 — both residents of Journey Senior Living — hold bal to write back? loons each with a note attached. More than likely, lhe balloons would end up in a cornfield somewhere, Thomason thought. loneliness. My residents are my family, and on what they had written in their little letters. For the most part, she was right — except they will tell you that 100 times over,” So, I think some way. somehow it will for one. Thomason said. ‘“Even though we arc family continue, but nothing is planned yet." Smelker A few days later, Thomason got a phone and we are grouped together. I am not their said. call from Star Elementary. They found the blood child and they know they are missing Smelker and Thomason have planned two note and planned to send a package of letters. their blood children, and that’s hard for them.” Zoom calls — one with >oung students and Thomason went to her residents with lhe good “It’s hard to see them like this, sad lo see one with older — Friday so residents and news. them like this.” students can meet each other. “We didn’t really know what to expect The Star Elementary' letters seem lo have Journey Senior Living sent back a care back, and 1 had two [residents who] would ask kept the sadness and loneliness at bay. at least package for the school, complete with candy me almost daily, ‘Did we hear anything from for a while. for lhe students, a thank-you card and special them yet? Did we get anything from them “We had a blast with it, we’re still loving present for Allen, who was responsible for the back?’" Thomason said. "All of a sudden, we it,” Thomason said. "[Residents! said let’s do fortuitous exchange. got the phone call dial (al balloon had been it monthly, I said ‘Yeah, that will gel old.’” To support Journey Senior Living residents found.” Thomason said they plan lo launch more or others like them, Thomason said letters and Near lhe end of October, a bulky package balloons — though perhaps not monthly. care packages Tilled with activities are helpful. arrived at the facility, and Thomason gathered Likewise, Smelker wants to give students •’Simple things like candy, puzzle books, her 38 residents to open the letters together. similar opportunities in the future. coloring books, puzzles — things that you Instead of receiving just one letter - as their •‘I’m not really sure where or how this w ill and I lake for granted because we can go lo note had requested — the residents of Journey continue, but I’m sure there will be some sort Walmart and buy it,”Thomason said. “One of Senior Living received approximately 250 of continuation. 1 know some of the residents the residents said it doesn’t matter if it’s one from a school of 296 in-person students. wanted to write lo specific students just based or 100 letters — at least we get one.” “We sat in a little group and read them all together,” Thomason said. “We love the young kindergarten class because they drew pictures of themselves and then the teacher pul their school pictures on it. They received a variety of letters. Some from the younger grades were mostly drawings. While older students wrote actual letters. And some were based ofl wnting prompts, such as. "What is it like tn llnrd ^One resident, a 94-year-old World War II veteran, received a drawing of the American fl!1"A little boy drew a flag and he (the resident] thought that was the coolest thing that this little kid drew a flag for him, not knowing who he was," Thomason said. Due to COVID-19, Journey Senior laving residents are currently under a strict lockdo n and arc unable to sec their families. Thomason choked up speaking about the impact lockdown has had on her residents. •These residents are struggling, and I m not just talking my facility. I ,n “'lk^h facility. They are struggling with tne depression that sets in. the sadness and Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads I ‘Beans’ justify the ieans month. In return, they aro able to wear somethino n?2n'Pni'-hable ,0°dla uniform Food collected in October was delivered last ? h?,r than the reqbir«d • families. Students in Katie Youngs' fourth/fifth gracfeX^ Codr11y C^l delivery include (front row. from left) Jaci Goodroo. l2Zy9p l?5:> biakmg tito 5P®C' ... dark Isaiah Thomas, Camden Cary, Kellen Bogo %nner ^ ySSa MacLeodEvelyn Webb. Leyna Kursch; (back) Myles Drake and । ^Mella Stn'J^videdj When Kristy Allen, Star Elementary Secretary, went to throw away a deflated bal­ loon, she found a note from a senior living facility in northwest Indiana. Journey Senior Living Residents James, Linda, Steve and Charles prepare to send off their balloons. . SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Help with achieving self-support Vonda Van Til Public Affairs Specialist If you rely on Supplemental Security Income payments or Social Security Disability benefits and want to start working or return to work, we can help. A Plan for Achieving Self-Support is a rule under SSI to help people with disabilities return to work. If you receive SSI or could qualify for SSI after setting aside income or resources so you can pursue - or achieve - a work goal, you could benefit from a PASS. How does a PASS help someone return to work? Wc base SSI eligibility and payment amounts on income and resources (things of value that the individual owns). PASS lets a disabled individual set aside money and things he or she owns to pay for items or services needed to achieve a specific work goal Tire objective of the PASS is to help disabled individuals find employment that reduces or eliminates SSI or SSDI benefits. You can lead al! about the PASS program al ssa.gov/pubs/FN-05-11017,|xlf. The plan must be in writing, and Social Security must approve it beforehand. To start. contact your local Social Security office for an application (Form SSA-545-BK) or you can access the form at ssa.gov/fonns/ssa-545. html. Many people can help you write a PASS, including a Ticket lo Work service provider, a vocational counselor, or a relative. Social Security’s Ticket to Work program supports carver development for SSDI beneficiaries and SSI recipients who want lo work and progress toward financial independence. The Ticket program is tree and voluntary. Call the Ticket to Work Help Line, 866-968-7842 or 866-833-2967 (1TY). Monday through Friday. 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. to learn more about the Ticket program. Your job isn’t ju>t a source of income — it can be a vehicle lo independence or a beginning to fulfilling your dreams, Let Social Security’s PASS help you achieve your goals. Vonda Van Til is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her do Social Security Administration, .1045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids Ml 49525 or via email io vonda .vantilGi, ssa.gov. �The Hastings Bannuz — Thursday November 12. 2020 — 11 Anonymous app notifies users of possible coronavirus exposure . nw Michigan department, <>r H0n>anSeniccsandiwhnoi'oKvMl^“1!1' 1"’*1 Mid Budget have announced th > ‘L’en»ent Mkxn ot the COVID19 XX ’’T'1'' on .Mr,> MI COVin Alert. He anonymous., no-cost. vol,,,,, filoted in Ingham County and on th. * !'^’' I .Michigan State I rtivektlv |2 L T!’US L Know whether they X h’. oen exposed to COVID 19 I s-rcL <l1" idemiMly^bmitapositixe^S^mto the W and alert others tn rvvcm f < Vine's b'*'n exposed to lhc,L"tat : (0'"?..Lase' a"d deaths are nowc vims. • - hst." MDII1LS Directo, Rob.. HXing Ml COVID Alert on your cell pl'tonc'is It smiplc. safe step that everyone can take to hv,e<t ihetnselxes and thei?Ued one' hX free, tt s easy, and it protects your privacy." ..... m,.,. . " Every Michigander is encouraged to dow n load Ml ('OVID Alert. Research from Oxford University found a potential to reduce infec­ tions and deaths, even if just 15 jK-rcent ol a population uses an exposure-notification app like Ml ('OVID Alert. In the initial weeks of lhe MSU Ingham County pilot alone. 46.704 J>eoplc downloaded die app. That number is the equivalent of approximately 23 percent ol Ingham County residents IX to (>4 years old and nearly 16 peicent of the total Ingham County population Tins app has the potential to provide the kind ol early exposure notification that is crit­ ical to preventing the spread of lhe virus." said MSU Executive Vice President for Health Sciences, Dr. Norman J. Beauchamp Ir. "In addition to wearing a mask, .social distancing and getting tested, downloading the app is one of the mo.l 'aU‘ ,o help keep our rOi . ■ When individual’*^' "w lo, COVID. 19. (hey receive Is |c > Wocr.>tc<l PIN fiom the local he:'" D Knt ,,, Stale ot Michigan caw im» '■'< allows them to chare theit re>«>'n<-u-l> <m the app. Ml COVID Al^ uses cd phone codes J‘"‘ ;ps Bluetooth technology instead of ' Nation to pfOtect on "-y while I'xAtnF a;k ,,, lilne [() (k,(cr. m,nc Close contact other phones th,,, h If someone wi" fl,”'c e<,"'act with anoth­ er nerson who stibini"111 a |»>s,tive COVID19 test result, the clow contact will receive a push notification result s entered into the ^’t-m. A notification means the app "as l’"''slbl>' w""in six Icct for al least 15 minutes ol someone who tested positive. Michigan worked with Apple and Google lo make Ml COVID Alert com patible with similar apps in other stales. I he “PP works in conjunction with traditional contact tracing, mask-wearing, hand washing and social distancing, but is not a replacement lor these precautions or participation in con­ tact tracing. People who ate exposed to (’OVID-19 should get tested and consider quarantining, including watching for symptoms for 14 days from the date of possible exposure. Individuals in need of testing may visit the ( OVID-19 website to find a testing location near them. They also may contact lhe Michigan COV1D19 hotline by calling 888-535-6136 from X a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday or dialing 2-1-1 on their mobile phone to locate " , . and schedule an appointment at a nearby test­ ing location it. lhe exposure notification feature included in recent iOS and Android operating system updates only works with a companion app like MI COVID Alert. The app h available in the Apple and Google app stores. Other states, including Virginia. Arizona. New York. Alabama and New Jersey, recently launched similar exposure notifications apps statewide. Additional states have apps m development. in • Tlie latest information on CO* ID-1 z is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/coronavirus. 1 Pfizer in Southwest Michigan becomes ‘glimmer of hope’ for vaccine Bridge Magazine , Two square miles ,„ ponagc. ncar pamazoo. on Monday became the epicenter of hopes that the United States will be distrib­ uting coronavirus vaccines by year-end. That property in southwestern Michigan is home to the largest manufacturing site in the world for drug giant Pfizer Inc. On Monday, a,id its partner. Germany’s pioNIech announced that their coronavirus iaccine appears to be lX)-percent effective and Should be ready for production - at that Michigan site - by kite November. r II all goes as planned, and the companies ire able to gel Emergency Use Authorization from the federal Food and Dnig?\dminisiration. lhe rollout of a vaccine to light the global bandemic could begin this year, lhe two Bijections that appear to offer protection Lainst the virus will be free to Americans. Unclear so far is how that will take place, and in what timetable. | “Based on current projections we expect to produce globally up to 50 million vaccine loses in 2020 and up to 1.3 billion doses in 1021," Pfizer said Monday in a statement. * ’l he impact “is obviously huge from a pub­ lic health standpoint.” said Stephen Rapundalo. president and CEO of MichBio, an advocacy organization for Michigan’s S28 billion life sciences industry. It’s also resonating in Portage, home to about 53.000 people and one of the state’s most active life sciences corridors, where an estimated 2.200 Pfizer employees work and companies like Stry ker and Zoelis continue to prow. i “The virus has changed people’s lives,” kiid Joseph lui Margo. Portage city manager. tWe’re hearing about new cases and how hospitals arc becoming overwhelmed once igain. It's frightening. But then ... there's this Uimmer of hope.” 1 News of lhe vaccine's progress sent stocks Soaring, as the Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 834.57 points, or 2.95 percent. It closed at 29.157.97, its biggest one-day gain jiince June 5. according to CNBC reports. f Pfizer climbed 7.69 percent, closing at 839.20 per share, while BioNTech gained 93.91 percent, closing at $104 80. I The stock market boost may show economc optimism alter industries like restaurants md airlines suffered since March as tear ot he infection spreading closed businesses, breed others to adapt to stringent safety proocols and prompted fears among consumers. Jnemployment due to lhe pandemic has iffcctcd millions ot Americans this year, w ith he most recent data showing that between March 15 and Oct. 31,2.92 million Michigan esidents applied for unemployment, recciv- ing $25.58 billion in benefits. The vaccine moving closer to approval also comes as coronavirus cases continue to mount across most areas of the country, where at least 10 million people have tested positive for lhe virus. In Michigan, lhe most recent case count averaged 4.505 positive cases each day for Sunday and Monday, a 34-percent increase from a week earlier. Statewide, the positive lest rate reached 115 percent, up from below 3 percent earlier this fall, according to state data. In Barry County, the positive test rate is higher, at 11.8 percent, according to health department officials. Pfizer and BioNTech signed a deal in July with the federal government to receive a $1.95 billion payment upon the receipt of the first 100 million doses, following FDA autho­ rization or approval. According to the agree­ ment, lhe United States can receive up to an additional 500 million doses. The companies have a deal with lhe United Kingdom for 30 million closes and are negotiating with other entities, including a possible 200 million doses for the European Union. Vaccine production will reach Pfizer’s Portage facility alter il starts at two other company plants. It will start with raw material production in St. Louis, lhe drug substance then will be purified in Andover, Maryland, before being shipped to Portage. In Portage, the drug is combined with other raw materials. The “bulk vaccine will then be transferred lo an aseptic filling line where it w ill be filled into a sterilized vial and capped. It w ill then undergo lOO'J inspection before it is transferred to the packaging lines,” accord­ ing to the release. Packed containers w ill go into blast freez­ ers, the company said, because it needs to be stored al -109.3 degrees F. It then will be staged in storage freezers “awaiting final packing into dry ice shipping containers.” Michigan can celebrate its role in the vac cine, stale officials said. Pfizer is based in New York, but it has a long presence in Michigan, where its Upjohn division was founded. While it closed R&D operations in Kalamazoo and Ann Arbor in 2007. its employment just in Portage was 2.200 before it announced a planned expansion in 2018. “This is great news for our families, our frontline workers, and our small business owners.” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. “Michigan has always been on the forefront of innovation, and I am proud to see that Pfizer, a Michigan business and one of the largest pharmaceutical manufacturing facili­ ties in the world, will produce the vaccine in our great state. “ HHS Ibowling : The winter sports season is about to get tmderway on the high school levy . I Hasting- varsity troys' and gtrls bow mg loach Deanna Rhodes would like to make lure high school student-athletes know that Pouts for the Hastings High Schoo Irowb. g Em will be held on Nov. 16, front 3.30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Hastings Bowl. A sign-up sheet is in the high school athlet­ ic office, or bowlers may just show up the day of try-outs if need be. Student-Athletes must have a physical on file with the high school athletic office to practice and participate in high school sports. CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945 9554 "iT ENDSLEY; 1ABR>; .CATION and repair.. » _ trailers, buckets, bale I • • etc. Call 2n9-St> --------CASH FOR JUNK CARS. ( all 269-818-7854._---- -----BEILS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience-J painting, ■h,,nr washing. logging, PVBI.ISIIER'S NOTICE “ per n »vS;CU t • lhe I . J Uijilix Ad with the permission of the precinct chairper­ son. “1 could look at everything and touch noth­ ing.” Bonsignore said of his role. Geiger said challengers make sure people are not being denied the right to vote, and that those who vote are eligible. It was both Geiger and Bonsignore’s first time its election challengers. Geiger said it also was the first time lhe election workers in Kentwood had challeng­ ers at the polls. He said they seemed a little intimidated when Geiger and two challengers from the Democratic Party showed up to watch. But. by the end of the day. there was a bipartisan camaraderie, he said. The only notable issue was a person in the parking lot who was giving voters informa­ tion. Geiger and another challenger had a discussion with the person, and told them they needed to Ik more than 100 feel away from the building. The situation escalated, and the city clerk’s office got involved. Eventually, the person moved, but then left soon after. Geiger said. One of Geiger’s main concerns was watch­ ing for people attempting lo vote who may have already voted absentee. If a person requests an absentee ballot and then shows up at the polls on Election Day to vote in person, they have to follow a specific process to can­ cel their absentee ballot. Geiger said he did NIK0NS Hiring Event Viking and Manpower partnering together on MICHAEL KINNEY PLUMBING Licensed Master Plumber I icensed Journeyman Plumber New construction. remodel, repair, drain cleaning BRADFORD WH11E WAI ER HEATERS Same Day Installation Office (269) 948-2248 Mobile (269) 838-5112 X lO'-ULVd cvember Sale Immediate Interviews for Full time employment - Ail Shifts • Sprinkler Workcell Operators • Material Handlers • Trim Assembly Operators • Controls Engineer . HR Co°rdinator • Temp to perni pOSjiiOns available IKC. lip’ll I.H fabrics • Excludes Salo Items* •Ends 11-30-20' New collections by Mode® T* Tray Tor Our Nation Out questions ASK us • (Jv.cll wages & benelits *9uaI Opportunity Employe 216 L SUM St Hast'Kjs • 945-9673 5 30 11- Ill'll Mi (i Call Phon* Boosters trr 867 8241 not see any issues that were not resolved. Bonsignore said the 14 hours he spent at Barry Township were quite boring, which was a testament to lhe election workers who made the day run smoothly. . , ’ . . “Tlie most surprising thing to me vyay the, machines messed up more than the people did.” Bonsignore said. A ballot reader jammed several times throughout the day. but the election workers were always able to fix it. “They really knew* what they were doing,” Bonsignore said. Challengers typically show up before the polls open to make sure the ballot readers show that they haven’t counted anything before (hat day. The challengers also stay after the polls close, to watch the ballots being removed and the vote totals printed. Il makes for a long day, as challengers are at the polls from 6:30 a.m. lo at least 9 p.m. Bonsignore jokingly compared the day to watching paint dry. but said he was glad he did it, and he was confident in the election results. “I couldn’t see any way that people could fiddle with the results and gel away with it,” Bonsignore said. “I walked away tired but happy with the election process I saw’,” Geiger said. “It was really cool lo see what happens on Election Day - and all lhe mechanics that go into mak­ ing sure we have free and fair elections.” II ille/U t. UllM CCnJc — ------------ 7Tl I H A R D BUYING ALL 1 hte WOODS: Walnut. W Oak, Tulip P°P ar„„|,. Waipricing. ^'’'liability « nut trees. Insured, । ,. workman'- <:•”"£J,n' Taylor Gwens Stajf Writer Barry County residents served as election challengers for both lhe Republican and Democratic parties hvl.'yjjck, and came awwy with a new appreciation for the election sys­ tem. •‘It was really refreshing to see how fair and secure our elections really are.” Ben Geiger said. A Barry County commissioner. Geiger vol­ unteered to be an election challenger for the Republican Party, and spent more than 14 hours al the 12th precinct in the City of Kentwood outside Grand Rapids Mark Bonsignore spent 14 hours at lhe Barry Township Hall as a poll challenger tor lhe Democratic Party. Hu said he was impressed with both the election workers and voters, and reported a .smooth process. Election challengers are similar to poll watchers, but they have more abilities. A poll watcher can be anyone who shows up at a poll and asks to watch the proceedings as long as they are not disruptive. An election challenger must be appointed by an approved organization - such as a polit­ ical parly - and must be a registered voter. They also have the right to challenge a per­ son’s eligibility to vote, may sit behind the processing table, and have lhe right to look at the pollbook and other election materials. A poll vwatcher -------- can only inspect the materials /AVyWvvS'vWvVvVAVYyWNl CAKRONSPORI AIK I Jock­ ey Table. $300.00 OBO. Phone 269-908-1654. 5*1— Bland said renewing the Good Jobs for Michigan tax credit also could make a differ­ ence. That program ended in December 2019 after awarding tax benefits worth $57.4 mil­ lion to three firms, including Pfizer, that together promise to create 1,354 jobs within five years. Critics said the jobs cost lhe stale more than $40XMX) for each job it created. Meanwhile, development of the vaccine is just one among several in progress among global pharmaceutical companies. 1 hat one ot them appears to be weeks away from produc­ tion is “phenomenal.” Rapundalo said. “Normally, this process would have taken years.” he said. . However, he cautioned, ’’there is still a ways to go.” The volume of doses presents logistical challenges, and lhe company is try­ ing to do real-time tracking. The scale of dis­ tribution, he said, hasn’t been seen before. “It almost reminds me of a D-Day effort, Rapundalo said. “The technology alone, cou­ pled with lhe integration across a huge geog­ raphy ... just staggers lhe mind.” Election challengers report confidence in process (across from the main building next to Barry County Lumber) I'or Salt KASSON 10FI OAK Pool 1 ible excellent condition. $1,000.00 or OBO- 2d9-908- said. “These arc high-paying jobs. Skilled, knowledge-based jobs that vve really want to be able to have here. Particularly since we’re one of the largest producers of scientists and engineers in lhe country.” The news also resonates in the historically heavy manufacturing state of Michigan, where lhe pandemic and shortages of supplies for personal protective equipment (PPE) reig­ nited calls to “reshore” more production to the United States, Rapundalo added. “I would challenge our state elected offi­ cials to focus on that and talk about what sort of policies would leverage that,” he said. At lhe top of his list: restoring the state's research and development tax credit. “Michigan is one of only four slates that doesn’t have one,” Rapundalo said. “We des­ perately necd that back, especially for small to midsize companies.” Bland, of Southwest Michigan First, agreed that lhe R&D tax credit could make a differ­ ence in recruiting still more life sciences businesses to the state, which is home to 1.300 of them and 130.000 life sciences w ork- Saturday, November 21 9:00 am -12 noon Viking - East Campus 321 N. Industrial Park Drive Banner CLASSIFIEDS Business Services l he expansion tn P»«;’gc is valued at $465 million, including SI4K million in a 400 000-squarc-fool pnwessing facility to add a sterile injection production line to its cam­ pus. It hasn't begun, b. Margo> smd Monday. The move will add about 450 new jobs in Kalamazoo County, s.™1 Ji" "land, managing partner at Southwest Michigan I irst. an eco­ nomic development group based in Kalamazoo. Pfizer at the time projected a total investment of $1 I billion there through 2024. “In a lol of ways, Pfizer had planned for being able to produce vaccines and being on the cutting edge of that area. Bland said. The Portage plant also makes active phar­ maceutical ingredients and medical devices, shipping al least 140 million units of injec­ tions and medications. The company says its products are shipped to 113 countries. Rapundalo, of MichBio, said he hopes the attention from the coronavirus injection will help Michigan's life science industry grow. “We have the ability, we have the talent, wc have the legacy in this space.” Rapundalo ////' _______ TtannowAr' Hulst Cleaners Pick-Up Station �Pago 12 — Thursday. November 12. 2020 — The Hastings Banner DK/TK/HHS wins fifth OK Rainbow Tier II title OKIKli SB result 2 Twist etic Boos DK/TK/HHS senior Dalace Jousma swims to a sixth-place time in the 200yard freestyle Saturday at the OK Rainbow Tier II Conference Meet. (Photo by Brett The Delton Keliogg/Thornapple Kellogg/Rastinos varcitv ‘ ‘ * Conference Championship after winning Saturdnu'c r 9 S sw,mrn,ng and diving team celebrates its fifth OK Rainbow Tier fl Hastings. The team dedicated the championshio tn th« ° erence ™eel at thG Community Education and Recreation Center if) Bremer) Britt Bremer Sports Editor Hiere was a point to make up. and the Delton KdlogpThomapple Kellogg/Hastings girls found that one and a few more Friday and Saturday. Tlie DK/TK/HHS girls snapped their league-leading deadlock with the Wayland girls by winning the OK Ruinbow Tier II Conference Championship Meet al Hastings High School 420.5 to 410 over the runner-up Ottawa Hills Bengals to cam the conference trophy for themselves. Wayland’s girls finished third al the confer­ ence meet with 399 points, ahead of Unity Christian 299. Calvin Christian/Wcst Catholic 280 and Grand Rapids Union 1265. The DK TK'HHS girls dedicalcd the sea­ son, and the victory to the memory of team­ mate Lydia Cole who lost her battle with cancer in January. Cole would have been a senior on the team this fall, and her parents Ryan and Kelly Cole continued to volunteer as timers for home meets at lhe CERC this season. The DK/TK/HHS girls made sure to welcome them into their celebration after all-conference honors and the final standings were revealed. Sophomore Anna Haywood joined the 200yard freestyle relay team that also included Sophie Marcukaitis, Juliann Meeker and Abby Marcukaitis for a big win in their race, finishing in 1 minute 43.82 seconds - a sec­ ond ahead of die Wayland foursome that won the race when the two teams met for their conference dual last month. have been a senior on the team this fall. Lydia’s oaronre RuTn Jeammate Lyd*a Cole, who passed away last January, would program were welcomed into the championship celebration at the e d W^° ^ave con,inue^ 10 wor^ as tirT,ers ^or swirfl honors. Wayland had six different girls’ cam all-conference honors, more than any other team in the conference this fall. DK/TK/HHS had four, the four members of the 200-yard medley relay team. £ Hoekstra won the 500-yard freestyle uj 5:23.36 and the 200-yard freestyle in 2:00.2CC VanPopering look the 200-yard individual medley in 2:10.91, was the runner-up to Hoekstra in the 500-yard freest) le and joined teammates Madelyn Reurink, Sami Reed and Abbi Jelsema in a runner-up 200-yard free­ style relay finish. r; Senior Dalace Jousma had a big sixth-placb finish for DKTK/HHS in the 200-yard free­ style in 2:14.28. and also placed eighth in the 500-yard freestyle in 6:08.23. Another DK/ TK/HHS senior, Juliann Meeker, was fifth in the 50-yard freestyle with a time of 26.86. Meeker also placed eighth in the 100-yaid ----------- ---- _____________ Sophie Marcukaitis swims the breaststroke leg of the 200-yard medley relay for the butterfly in 1:08.19 with Haywood right in winning DK/TK/HHS team to open the Imais competition Saturday at the OK Rainbow front of her in seventh with a time of 1:07.64. Haywood added an eighth-place time of Tier II Conference Meet in Hastings (Photo by Brett Bremer) 1:01.22 in the 100-yard freestyle. Sophomore Cadence VanOoy placed eighth group earned a time of 4:12.04, West Catholic sophomore Emily Hoekstra in the 100-yard backstroke for DK/TK/HHS DK/TKJ1HS had four divers in the top each earned 40 points at the meet, the most of r. eight, with Claire Green third. Eve Bishop any athletes, and Sophie Marcukaitis and with a time of 1:11.50. Other scorers for the DK/TK/HHS team fifth. TJ Myers seventh and Maelca Martin Wayland senior Riley VanPopering were tied included Lily Foy. Erin Daniels. Kase4 eighth. , for the third most conference meel points .with Knpteyn, Kallie JLcary and Elizabeth Abbj Marcukailis :«td, Calvin Christian 37 each. All four girls earned all-conference Middleton. . .• .• DK/TK/HHS diver Claire Green twists above the pool on her way to a third-place finish in lhe diving competition at the OK Rainbow Tier II Conference Meet at the CERC in Hastings Saturday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) The Wildcats won that October dual by a single point. A pair of relay wins were huge for lhe DK/ TK/HHS girls, with that same foursome win­ ning the 200-yarxl medley relay in 1:53.68. Abby Marcukaitis won the 50-yard free­ style in 24.84 seconds and lhe 100-yard back­ stroke in 57.74, meeting the Division 1 Slate Qualifying time in the process in both races. Sophie won the 100-yard breaststroke in 1:11.03. Sophie also had a runner-up finish in the 200-yard individual medley. A fifth-place finish by the 400-yard free­ style relay team of Ellen Shults, Holly Carpenter. Preslee Hall and Dalace Jousma finished off the win for DKTK/HHS. That > • Lakewood sophomore setter puts a pass up as senior middle Aubrey O'Gorman makes a move towards the net behind her during their regional semifinal match-up with Marshall at Lakewood High School Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Sports Editor Sophomore outside hitter Ellie Possehn came off the court Tuesday after her first rota­ tion and said, “I’m freaking out,” according to her coach. Lakewood head coach Cameron Rowland said he didn’t really think about it before Tuesday’s Division 2 Regional Semifinal against Marshall at Mkewood High School. “Oh yeah, a Jot of you haven’t played in this before,” he realized. The Vikings were challenger! in front of a boisterous crowd lor the first time this fall, and won in front of one as well, defeating the Red Hawks 25-16.23-25,25-17, 25-20. It was the Vikings’ third win of the fall over the Red Hawks, but with a postseason loss meaning the end of the season this win was different. “Marshall scares me. They’re big. They’re ■ Lakewood freshman libero Carley Piercefield turns to encourage her team at the back row during the Vikings' 3-1 win over Marshall in the Division c J Semifinals at Lakewood High School Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) athletic. (Marshall head coach] Bre [Johnson] does a really good job,” Rowland said. “They had a ton of seniors. We got challenged in lhe second set. We got hesitant in the second set, and that scared me because we haven’t seen this group get hesitant. “Again, it was Aubrey [O’Gorman] relax­ ing us back down and talking to kids like Ellie who hadn’t played a match like this before. We haven’t had fans all year. This is the loud­ est (he gym has been. It was good to see that, especially for Zayda [Kruger], She struggled a little bit in that second set and she came back and she was lights out.” “[Kruger] served tougher. She commanded more of her space in serve receive,” he added. Kruger is not lhe only newcomer in the back row for lhe Vikings. When she is on lhe court she’s playing alongside freshman libero Carley Piercefield - who her coach calls the best he has coached at lhe position. “Her poise, that is what I was most impressed with tonight." ^"'XmemVls Piercefield. "Her poise in >h,s m° Piercefield had 22 digs in the *in' than double any of Iter teaming • j also belted five eves. Soph^'h'i eight another young Ds for the Vikings •T knew coining in 1 h»J “.^Cgingand^l and tonight was gojng w be ‘h» H 8^,. need lo give it my a||t so I 11 Piercefield said. ’ thill She said when her leant go>°.vc second set she knew that •> I . an)Und. would be key to luming L,„ the older 1 think we Ve learned »*'d of herself tteop e httbni.," Piercel* d ,;tvcr,."We and the Vtk1ng.,'yi)un., back r<>« P ;v try to better the ba)1 fl>r them »• us.. 117*"8'rht> talk to us and ^o-iiorman in .1 nW a, .?,a,c uio ofhitter Maradith the middle, juHior ()Ubide hit' & Lakewood junior DS Zayda Kruger turns her back to lhe net to save a ball at thg back of the court as libero Carley Pierceliold looks on during their team’s 3-1 win ove/ Marshall in the Division 2 Regional Semifinals at Lakewood High school Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) O’Gorman and sophomore setter Skylar Bump can’t be at its best with out teammates helping get the ball up. No surprise, when the Vikings passed well they were in a gcxxi posi­ tion on lhe scoreboard against the Red 1 lawks. Maradith led the Vikings with 26 kills and Aubrey had 22. Bump finished with 51 assists and four kills. Possehn and McKenzie Wells had three kills each. Maradith also had 11 digs. Bump had six. Possehn lour and Aubrey three. Aubrey and Bump had three accs each, and Maradith and Kruger hit two apiece. , Lakewood hopes to gain a bit ol experience at lhe net for lhe regional final, which is planned for Thursday evening, as coac\i Rowland said he is expecting senior middle Sophie Duits to return to lhe court. .■ Lmsing Catholic defeated Blissfield in five sets in lhe second semifinal of the night Tuesday to cam the spot opposite lhe No. 2 Lakewood ladies in lhe regional final. �- Ths Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 12. 2020 Page 13 ct final*0 five sets before falling Delton Kellogg’s Abigail Fichtner stretches to pass a ball during her team’s district semifinal loss at Maple Valley High School Wednesday (Nov. 4). (Photo by Brett Bremer) > Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Maple Valley varsity volleyball team pushed Kalamazoo Christian to the limit Thursday in the Division 3 District Final at Comstock High School. . The Comets managed to fend off the Lions in the end with a 15-5 win in the fifth set to clinch the district championship. "My team played awesome and I’m super prod of them," Maple Valley head coach Sarah Carpenter said. “They all came out ready to go. Kalamazoo Christian is a very good volleyball team, very well-rounded." The two teams went back and forth after the Comets took a 25-15 win in the opening set. The Lions won lhe next 25-14 and then nearly took the lead in a tight first set that the Kalamazoo Christian girls pulled out 25-23. Maple Valley extended the match to a fifth set with a 25-17 win in the fourth set. The Lion head coach was especially impressed by the Comets’ middle blockers, und that had senior setter Trista Medina and senior all-slate outside hitter Keilyn Carpenter needed to be at lhe top of their game - and they were. Keilyn finished lhe evening with 32 kills. Medina put up 40 assists. - Coach Carpenter said she needed Medina’s passes to be at the pin lo give Keilyn the Chance to hit shots down lhe line and avoid the defense in the middle of the net from the Comets. Those sets were there. Medina of course couldn’t get those passes Jnio position without the passers around her giving her an opportunity to. Coach Carpenter Maple Valley senior setter Trista Medina puts a pass up as Delton Kellogg’s Mcakenzie Hull watches from the other side of the net during their Division 3 District Semifinal at Maple Valley High School Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) said libero Olivia Roush did a phenomenal job digging the ball, and defensive specialist Lexi Booher had a few key digs throughout the night as well. MI told the girls last night - a win tonight docs not make or break your life but how you have learned to react in tough situations will,’4 coach Carpenter said Friday. "If you can uti­ lize the skills we have worked on physically, emotionally and mentally tonight and reach your personal potential that’s all we ask of you. 1 will be proud of you but more impor­ tantly you. will be proud of-yourself. . "These girls brought it lust night. They each brought 100 percent last night." Senior outside hitler finished her second season of high school volleyball, and first as an outside hitter, with 12 kills. The Lion team nine aces with Medina hitting three and Keilyn, Booher and Holly Rosin adding two each. Roush led lhe team in digs with 34. Keilyn had 16 digs, Booher 12. Wilkes 11 and Medina nine. Keilyn had a pair of blocks as well. Coach Carpenter was also impressed with how her young middles Rosin and Lydia Schilz. forced into varsity action with just eight players in the high school program, per- Delton Kellogg's Lillian Ferris hits an attack as Maple Valley's Emma Pierce tries to protect her side of the net during their Division 3 District Semifinal at Maple Valley High School Nov. 4. (Photo by Brett Bremer) formed throughout the season. The Lions fought off the visiting Delton Kellogg Panthers, who put on a third-set charge try ing to extend the match, Wednesday Delton Kellogg had a 15-13 lead inc hat in the district semifinals at Maple Valley High third set alter an ace by Caitlin McManus School. rolled over the net to the floor. The two teams Maple Valley won by the scores of 25-17. 25-6, 25-22 in that semifinal match. "The third set. they played their hearts out. They really did," Delton Kellogg head coach Erin Thornton said. "There is nothing 1 can be mad about in that third ’ cl.” Keilyn Carpenter hat! 19 kills for the Lions and Wilkes> added ten. Medina put up 26 Brett Bremer assists. Roush had a team-high 14 digs. Sports Editor “We were try ing to take away the line from Maple Valley varsity cross country runner (Keilyn}," Thornton said. “We knew she was Lilly Faurot came into her freshman season going to be their big hitter. We knew that com­ planning to build up experience for the future, ing in. We knew that a week ago. Wc were according to her head coach Tiffany Blakely. trying to take away line, force her to hit to A strong showing at the Greater Lansing (libero) Josie (Lyons}. Get Josie to dig that Cross Country Championship in October got ball. We don’t want our setter to dig the ball ever) body to realize that running at Michigan all the time. Getting blocks up is something International Speedway to close out the year we’ve been working on all season. We got a could be a 2020 goal instead of a future one. few of them tonight. That was good.” Faurot closed her first varsity cross country Nothing got the Panthers more fired up on season by placing 176th in the Division 3 the night than a couple of big blocks by Lower Peninsula Cross Country Finals in Emma Kokx on the Lions’ all-state outside Brooklyn Saturday. hitter. "I was very’ happy with Lilly’s performance in the race," coach Blakely said. "Today was about gaining confidence in herself as a run­ ner. I remember her saying in amazement today, ‘coach, we’re here!’" "Her journey has been an amazing one, she consistently improved all season long and very much deserved to be on the starting line with all lhe other runners." Blakely said. "She gave everything she had today, and tor the said. "We are here for them,’ he said. "We’ve first time looked tired at the end of a race, been planning for this for a long time. This is which means she gave it her all. She hit the finish line in 22 minutes 45.88 not what we want to see in terms of the posi­ tivity rates and then the hospitalizations but seconds. It was a bit off her best time of lhe season, but personal records were few and far our teams are prepared.’ While waiting to see if Halloween parties between over the weekend at the finals in generated cases while also Worrying about the large part because of lhe unseasonably warm upcoming holiday season, Sudderth said MHA is encouraging people to consider "downsizing" Thanksgiving: fCWer people, with gatherings held outside if possible, more masks and simple .safety precautions such us not sharing utensils. "The only way for us to curb this and to ... successfully bend the curve that we did so well early in the spring, is that individuals adopt those behaviors. Brasser said. Elijah James Root, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on October 14. 2020 to Kelly Marie Root and Michael Paul Root of Hastings. Lion freshman Faurot finishes well in D3 Finals COVID patients quadrapfe in Mfe an hospitals since October Bridge Magazine . Michigan hospitals are seeing a wave of new COVID-19 patients fill beds across the itate. creating fears over testing, staff and Opacity issues — and yet another plea for everyone to wear masks and limit contact with others. -» In just over five weeks, Michigan hospitals Dave seen the number of COVID-19 patients quadruple, from just under 700 on Oct. 1 lo more than 2,800 on Monday, including a near­ ly 400-patient increase since Friday. I "We arc getting close to a point where peo­ ple won’t be able to get care for CO VID or Other health issues, said Ruthanne Sudderth. spokeswoman for the Michigan Health and Hospital Association. Tests are getting harder to find because so many people have coronavirus symptoms, hospital staff arc getting infected, taking them out of commission, and hospital beds arc becoming in short enough supply that some procedures are being put off. "We arc very concerned." Sudderth said. “Il’s lime for people to change their behav­ ior ’’ in the spring, a dearth of personal protec­ tive equipment caused many hea t c.irc workers to get infected from patients and fel­ low co-workers. Now. with sufficient amounts of gloves, masks and gowns at work. woriaK arc catching the disease elsewhere. Sudderth said. . The result is the same though: those work­ ers have to quarantine and get bet to diem selves before they can go buck to work an shows no signs of slowing down. More th. 11 percent of all coronavirus ‘es,s •*" f back positive, up from a$ the virus has spread rapio y the state. The Upper Peninsula, with 71 patients, is al an all-time high for COVID-19, as is northern Michigan and west and southwestern Michigan. And hospitals in metro Detroit’s six counties are treating over 1.300 patients, up 200 from Friday alone. At Beaumont Health, Michigan’s largest hospital system, hospitalizations of people with confirmed or suspected cases of CO VID­ 19 more than doubled over the past two weeks, from 172 patients on Oct. 25 to 377 cases on Sunday. On Monday, the slate reported 62 new deaths, including 10 in Kent Counly. putting the November total at 300 in just nine days and on pace for over 1.000 in lhe month, which would be lhe third worst month after April and May. Spectrum Health, which operates 13 hospi­ tals including two in Grand Rapids in Kent Counly, is currently treating 269 patients, its highest total. A week ago lhe system had 183 patients. And over lhe last week, 13 percent of the health system’s tests have come back positive a harbinger of even more patients in the weeks ahead, said Brian Brasser. senior vice president and chief operating officer of Spectrum. "And so it is continuing to climb and that is what makes us concerned because all indica­ tions would indicate what would |xiint to hospitalizations lagging the positivity;1 Brasser said. Demand for tests has soared with many people feeling ill and Spectrum is already limiting tests to only those with symptom^. And this week it has stopped some elective procedures that require an overnight stay, Brasser said. As of now, the health system can treat those who need care, including both COVID-19 patients and those with other illnesses, Brasser were tied as late as 18-18 before the Lions pulled ahead for the victory. temperatures. J "She said it was a lot wanner than she thought, but otherwise Lilly said it was such a cool experience to be a part of and is looking to come back and race in the State Finals next year." Blakely said. Western Michigan Christian junior Abby VanderKooi captured the individual state championship, running to a time of 17:12.47. Hart freshman Alyson Enns was the runner-up in 18:05.97. Hart had four girls finish in lhe top ten and captured the team state championship in Division 3 with 59 points. Ithaca was second with 114. ahead of Calvin Christian 121, St. Louis 195, Benzie Central 217, PewamoWestphalia 231. Reese 237. Covenant Christian 275. Clare 316 and Jackson Lumen Christi 326 in the top ten. Tlie top 30 runners in each division over the weekend earned all-state medals. Runners couldn’t count on counting the heads ahead of them this fall though, with each division bro­ ken down into two races lo help with social distancing. Faurot and the other individual stale qualifiers ran in one race with girls from teams that placed third at their regional races. The first and second place regional teams ran in a separate finals race immediately follow­ ing and then the times were merged lo create the final standings. J\fewbom babies Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads Londvn Angela Wright, bom nt Spectrum Health Pennock on October 16. 2020 to Linsey Aleece Snider and Anthony Michael Wright of Nashville. Jaxon Thomas Lynnj, born al Spectrum October l«. 2020 lo Health Pennock on L Kaitlin Nichole Neal and Bryan Thomas Lynn of Delton. Brandon Russell Orman Jr., bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on October 19, to Ashley Cappon and Brandon Orman of Nashville. Isaac John Roll, bom al Spectrum Health Pennock on October 23. 2020 to Karen Kay Roll and Jacob Brian Roll of Hastings. Rany Community Free Dental Clinic (Low income, uninsured persons over age 18) The clinic has dentists continually donating services. ♦♦Income verification required** Please apply at Barry County United Way (269) 945-4010 �aoe U ~ Thunday, Hcwnber 12, 2020 - The Hashnqs Banner Schoolcraft ends another postseason for Panther Delton Kellogg running back Seth Collard finds room to run around the right side during his team’s Division 7 District Semifinal at Schoolcraft Friday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) SchixMcrafi ended a Delton Kellogg playoff run for the second time in three years and scored its second win of the season over the Panthers. The Eagles scored a 43-14 win over the Delton Kellogg varsity football team in the Division 7 Dotricr Semifinals in Schoolcraft Friday. Delton Kellogg scored on a fumble recov­ ery in the end zone and got a 40-yard touch­ down pass from quarterback Payton Friday. (Photo by Per^ Hardin) Smoczynski to titzhr end Mason Nabozny in the fourth quarter. That I D pass came on u hat tackle Caden Ferris burst through would be the Panthers’ final offensive snap of theDefensive Eagle offensive line to force a fumble at lhe season. ■he goal-line. which defensive tackle Cole away from a Schoolcraft * Sch00lCfa" H''9h Scho°' Pane man-iced i» -. i Pape managed cover “ asrit T' squirted hJ^' -'f ^ to T" d towards ards noinu in ,h - ,t““ f°r *"S ,Can,'S first points in the third quarter. Delton Kellogg’s Seth Lebeck boots Schoolcraft In the Division 7 dunng hls team’s ,oss t0 SAC "*a fPhmn o™. u J”S,,on 7 D,str,ct Semifinals at Schoolcraft High School Saturday (Photo by Perry Hardin) The Eagles scored every which way. get­ ting a punt return for a touchdown, while also sconng through the air and on the ground on Schoolcraft led the ballgame 22-0 at the lldli. Tlie Eagles, ranked fourth in the state i Division 7. improve to 7-1 with the win. The will face another SAC foe, Lawton. in thi weekend’s district final. * DK closes the season with a record of 4-4 •r -Spurn Mi,or EnreH-?M?nrnaTCle sol’h*>nwre Only about 11 seconds, and II girls «ere whn 41*Oo”;1 ld and a" aH-st.-itu- medal each division competing ... ivuciiigan this and more.” International Speedway in Brooklyn over the ,. .. 1 * :"ere When all the results were added up Friday. Durkee was the only one of the local girls weekend earned allanite honors. MacDonald, running in the Division Z who was a repeat state qualifier this fall. She Another spphbmorp from the OK Gold tr- Jnfc>wcr Peninsula Cross Country Fii (.JB tfor \u she i'inah MlS “ “ sophpmore, turning in a ; •Conference. -Saxaty^on. won 28®!* fir.st time, placed 41st nitfi a time of 19 m better time on a cooler dawin-2019-but°pfacna i,.;..; c;f ; utes 58.62 seconds. Tlie top 30 ninners in i;:-’ Her team placed irfnth in the final standings. Obtain MacDonald and her junior teammate -n n. C ,h-C s?mnial TfOjan • <nameless. MacDonald was able to finish Jessica Durkee didn’t race with the Hawks ,‘‘;t lhouSh’ as aid m social distancing ahead of a couple familiar faces. She was a the MHSAA broke each division of the state quarter of a second better than Wayland fresh­ Imais down into two races for boys and two man Ava Makowski, who placed 42nd, as for girls. MacDonald, Durkee, and Lakewood well as Makowski’s sophomore teammate senior Katie Acker, another individual state Olivia Barabas who was 51st. MacDonald qualifier, ran in a race for the individual state th’". nTrWMh£d ^lWeCn thc two Wi,dcals al I. qualifiers and teams that placed third in their the OK Gold Conference Championship after regional meets. A second race included teams finishing just a bit behind them at each of the that finished first or second at regionals. first two conference jamborees this fall. She limes were then merged to create the overall also was about six seconds ahead of Forest Hills Eastern sophomore Ellory Clason who results. placed 50th Friday after being a top five fin­ Durkee placed 66th in 20:17.92. Acker was isher at each of the OK Gold Conference *n 7,sr p,ace wiIh a lime of races. J»K'r?/r,S attitudes going into the -n0, ,i .K ,head .^ch Sam Wilkinson said. ley had intentions of beating certain people to l ie finish line, who shall remain nameless ° Prottcc* innocent. and with thc idea of gettm alter it and really appreciating the experience. Well, they accomplished all of Thornapple Kellogg junior Jessica Durkee nears the finish at lhe end of the Division 2 Lower Peninsula State Finals Friday afternoon in Brooklyn. (Photo by Brett Bremer) "It was great to have these girls be able to nm and represent us so well,” Wilkinson said, but I think I heard them on about 20 different occasions, ‘I wish the whole team was here ’ That s just the kind of girls they are ‘Next year,’they would say.’’ Petoskey senior Emma Squires won the D2 girls championship with a time of 17:542)6 IX8^Petoskey'e™,oasta,cchampi- '°r ey r,nLsh^ ,he 'a« with 68 points. Hast Crane) Rapids and Grand Rapids Christian, two. teams dint left the OK Gold whh^o"^-<hH T“ni'P,’ccd second and third * 79 Points and 143 respectively. Cadillat was foUrth with 206 points, ahead of Otsego 215, Shopherd 254,Chelsea 272. Frankenmuth cJho^re«,H'HS ^“""t 287 and Lansi«£ Catholic 326 in the top ten. The South Christian girls placed 23rd in the 27-teatrt held. Fremont won the Division 2 boys’ state championship with 61 points, ahead of Si i°anS. 7O,ses° 187 ’ Chelsca 20°- PincknJ 2.4, Adnan 245, St. Clair 270, Spring Laki 315, Grand Rapids Christian 316 and Lake Fenton 354 in the top ten. Fremont senior Nathan Walker won die 15 '1orn'l„ch;unpionsh‘P with a time of I5d9.39 Pinckney ninners were second and s.^o7 JU.ni°r Ca,cb Jarcma finishing in 5-sniK SCn'°r Gavin While ,hild 'n O..-MJ.U3. Otsego senior Colin .Mulder was fourth in 15:59.84. top OK Gold Conference guy iq Dmsion 2 was Forest Hills Eastern^ 16 05CroSOn Who was siMh wi,h a lime Lakewood senior Katie Acker races to the finish line at the end of the Division 2 Lower Peninsula State Finals race inside Michigan International Speedway Friday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) EABLY BOLIDAY DEADLINES for The Hastings Banner Deadline for ADS: Tuesday, Nov. 24 at Noon Deadline for NEWS: Tuesday, Nov. 24 at Noon Deadline for CLASSIFIEDS: Tuesday, Nov. 24 at 2 p.m. Papers will be on i Wednesday, Nov. 25 ! hSUBanner onmsula Cr0S8 CoUntry Finals at MIS Friday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) °W Ob°Ut 80°'me(ers into the Division 2 Lower �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 12. 2020 Page 15 through jtonie to district title Bremer Charlotte’s honC^X ce of Doom for th" ~“ cen*>nly thc ewood varsity voi|t,vb ]|I’Ponc,’tx »• the Vikings wrapfSio' tLm^ Wetk’ fotritf Championship witb ah jP?™™ 2 win over Eaton R miri 25-13, mg’s district fi,U| the^telP""^'eve' <>f >he week X T *h,rd 3'° and Charlotte wX 8 Olivc' “ of s«atc tournament “* f‘R* up at lhc Skylar Bunin "r^ an<* soPhomorc ar Bump fed senior A . of^aCk°^^kerinkin^ liddie yhounds. d agiun a8’ins' ■ getting back in the gym on thc state mn- the road to states, the iust <3. ‘"credible. Il is something J st can t match," Aubrey said. "This at school thc buzz of everything has mmTofT,nB'?,,,inki,istay^one some of these girls’ first one. It is incred­ ; Aubrey, one of two seniors on the Lakewood jroster this fall had a team-high 14 kills, five ■Aces and three blocks. Wickerink had six kills, getting some extra ,umc in the middle of the net with the Vikings’ (oiher senior middle Sophie Duits out of the ;une-up. The Vikings hope to have her back •for a possible regional final on their home court Thursday. , Tori got the chance to play and she just .tore it up today, which is something huge for *us, Aubrey said. “She was a huge presence at •the net, which was really big for us scoring points. We were really hyped for her and excited for her, to see her swing.” Aubrey and thc Vikings come into the state postseason ranked number two in Division 2 behind the Grand Rapids Christian girls who knocked them off in the state final a year ago and in the state semifinals in 2018 in Battle Creek. The Vikings earned state runner-up finishes in 2016 and 2017, tournament runs Aubrey was a big part of. Wickerink’s big sister Breanna, was a senior on thc 2017 state runner-up team with Aubrey, tying for thc team lead in kills in the state final that year. This district tournament is lhe first time Tori is getting extended time on lhe court in the postseason for thc Vikings. “It feels really nice. I feel like I’m kind of gluing more with lhe team,” Wickerink said of gelling lhe chance to contribute more. Tori has enjoyed joking with her teammates on and off lhe court, and all the Vikings were excited to have their coach excited on the bench for the start of the postseason. “Cam started getting fixed. ppt and then, that kind of just fired us all up and (hen we w ere just playing with a bunch of intensity and paying hard at thc net,” Aubrey said. The Vikings built up a 15-1 lead in the opening set and never looked back. “It is the district final. We had to get our­ selves going a little bit right out of the gate,” Lakewood junior middle blocker Tori Wickerink gets high-fives at the bench after finishing a rotation on the floor during the Vikings’ win over Eaton Rapids in the Division 2 District Final at Charlotte High School Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) coach Rowland said. “Il kind of kept them at bay from gelling anything going and we played well then lhe rest of lhe night.” Lakewood was on its home court Tuesday in lhe regional semifinals, scoring a win over Marshall to get into tonight's regional final. The regional was moved from Owosso High School to Lakewood High School laic this week after Owosso closed its school buildings down due to COVID-19. The Vikings also got nine kills from allstatr? junior outside hijte^Majadith Q’.Gormqj] and six from aU-stalc sophomore setter Skylar Bump in the district final victory. Maradith matched Aubrey’s five aces and Bump had three. Freshman libero Carley Piercefield had a team-high 15 digs, with Maradith adding 11, Bump six and McKenzie Wells five. Lakewood opened the postseason with a 25-13,25-8.25-11 win over Olivet at Charlotte High School Monday (Nov. 2) and then Lakewood sophomore defensive specialist Alli Pickard passes the ball in the back row during her team's win over Eaton Rapids Thursday in Charlotte. (Photo by Brett Bremer) knocked off Charlotte 25-6. 25-15. 25-10 in lhe district semifinals Wednesday. Eaton Rapids got to the district final with a 25-16,25-10.25-8 win over thc Hastings girls in their district semifinal match in Charlotte Wednesday. Bees sting Lions in second half of finale I • Brett Bremer • Sports Editor • Maple Valley is a team built to grind out football games. The Lions had the Bees where they wanted (hem with a little over a minute lo go in the first half of the championship game of the big dght-man postseason tournament Saturday in Bridgman. Senior quarterback Blaze Sensiba hit Reese Proctor-Burhans for a 13-yard touchdown and senior running back Hugheston Heckathom tossed a two-point Conversion pass to Dillon Jorgenson to give thc Lions a 24-16 lead. • Bridgman took control by scoring the game’s next 18 points, aided by recovering an bn-side kick to start lhe second half, and went JX1 to a 41-30 victory over the Maple Valley varsity eight-player football team. i Lion head coach Marty Martin said that his team is built to play even or with a lead, rash­ ing the ball for chunks of yardage tune and Again and holding the football for e.gM mne minutes nt a time. Once his guys fell bdund the team started pressing a bit. The offense which had moved the ball so successfully Ihroughout the first half was stymied^some, And couldn't take advantage of the °PP°rtun|- sorts, and it really was. .* Bridgman fac^L.pwjth 1:22 to go in Sensiba’s go-ahead TD p yard mn by the first half. and scored on a ™ » Y quarterback Re.d added a twoleft in the firs' ^Jhat evened the score at point pass by Haskins u an on.hide 24-24. The Bees then for a kick to start the second half anti or .13-yard Haskins' TD ran. ^y .. . -They J1*5'?1". final drive of the first Martin said of the Bet. oasses and just .half. "They threw ^'X“ldn't tackle marched H d°wn 5^ f them there, we would in space. If wc hel sctond-half kickofl. lave had lhe lead and th • ff and now ‘rt ssVP we re playing eaten me fane." , emicaled to contain the The Lion defense stmgg Bees’ mobile quarterback. He rushed 24 times for 88 yards and was 8-of-14 passing for 103 yards and one interception. He also rushed in his team’s first two touchdowns, a 39-yarder with 6:15 to go in the first quarter and a 15-yarder with 9:37 to play in the sec­ ond quarter. Each of those first two Haskins TD runs matched a Lion score. Heckathom opened the The Lakewood varsity volleyball team celebrates with its district championship trophy after besting Eaton Rapids in three sets in scoring for lhe Lions with an eight-yard touchdown run four minutes into lhe ball­ the Division 2 District Final at Charlotte High School Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) game. Sensiba scored on a 56-yard run soon after Haskins’ first TD. Each of those first four touchdowns was followed by a two-point run, by Heckathom for the Lions and by Haskins for the Bees. “Hugheston was a man possessed,” Martin said of his all-stale senior running back who finished with 27 rushes for 163 yards. “He was going over people, around people, break­ ing tackles. He was lough to bring down. For t A a four year starter, he went out on a high Bannui note.” Bridgman added to its second half lead with a 27-yard field goal by Tanner Peters NEWS with 91 seconds left in the third quarter. The Lions got within 35-30 in lhe fourth SPORTS quarter, adding an eight-yard touchdown run COURT NEWS by Tyler Rose with 7:40 remaining in the ball­ game, but Nate Necas scored from nine yards LEGALS out on a rush with 4:11 to play to effectively »’A \ .» j' seal the victory for the Bees. MORE Heckathom was one of six seniors for lhe Lions this fall. Marlin was proud of lhe group of guys that stuck together as the program transitioned from II-player to eight-player football, while seeing ten or so of their class of 2021 teammates from the youth level slow­ ly leave lhe program over die years. Another one of those seniors, Sensiba. rushed nine times for 77 yards in his final game behind center for the Lions. He was 3-of-7 passing for 66 yards. Heckathom got to throw a few times against the Bees too, com­ The pleting one pass for 11 yards. He was inter­ Hastings cepted once out of the Lions’ “wildcat” pack­ age that they debuted in the postseason. (269)945-9554 “ft was a great experience to play some meaningful football this late in the year www.hastingsbanner.com again,” coach Martin said, while being appre­ ciative of his team’s boisterous fans who he said outnumbered the Bridgman faithful. Did you know that you can read The Hastings Banner in an and edition? r2S I �Page 16 — Thursday Ncvomber 12. 2020 — Tbo Hastings Banner Saxon comeback bid 2 points short Brett Bremer Sports Editor Saxon senior tight end Evan Eastman rose UP in the front right comer of thc end zone, above Paw Paw’s senior defensive backs Jason Rocz and Justin Bainl. Each guy had an arm or two chasing thc football as it floated down, and it wound up pinned between Rocz and Eastman. As they hit the turf at the north end of Baum Stadium at Johnson Field thc ball fluttered back up into the air. Lay inc on his back, after rolling off of Rocz, Eastman stretched his arms back ns far as tar as he could behind his head, but the ball bounded to the turf just out of (he reach of his fingertips. It was that close. The Hastings varsity football team fell 24-22 to visiting Paw Paw in the Division 4 District Semifinals in Hastings Friday night (Nov. 7). The Red Wolves led the bailgame 17-0 at halftime. Hastings rallied lo gel within two points with 5:10 remaining in the ball­ game. A holding penalty behind lhe line of scriinmngc on the h^k 'ide ,,f P'»y t(>'t m. S«.>n«' •> two point inversion that would “e-ied the game at .hut point With two timeouts, the Saxon di fense manaired to get thc ball back lor the oflense one loTt time with 1:27 to play. 59 yards from the Red Wolves* end zone. Hastings got to a firsland ten at the Red Wolves’ 33-yard-line with 39 seconds io go in lhe game where a clock stopping spike and two incomplete passes left the Saxons with a fourth-and-ten with 25 seconds left on (he clock. Hastings junior quarterback Mason Denton dodged a paw Paw blitz and let lhe pass fly that Eastman nearly was able to make the game-saving catch on. Instead, Paw Paw kneeled out the final sec­ onds before thc both teams gathered al mid­ field to share respect for their Wing-T breth­ ren from thc other sideline. “Not unlike anything else this year, our kids never give up,” Hastings head coach Jamie Murphy said. “They never think they're out of it. no matter what the score is. They I ■r,* jfy -Ji w ■ . Hastings defender Corbin Ulrich fights lo hold onto Paw Paw’s Zeyan Davis as his teammate Matt Thompson on the tackle during their Division 4 District Semifinal contest in Hastings Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Paw Paw running back Kolby Hindenach, who was injured during the ballgame, talks things over with Hastings’ Glen McFarlan, Mason Denton and Evan Eastman following his Red Wolves' 24-22 win over the Saxons inside Baum Stadium at Johnson Field in the Division 4 District Semifinals Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ask 1 I DO NOT FORGET TO FUND YOUR REVOCABLE TRUST Revocable trusts are a very popular and useful estate planning tool. But the trust will be ineffective if you do not actually place your assets in lhe trust. Revocable trusts are an effective way to avoid probate and provide for asset management in the event of incapacity. In addition, revocable trusts — sometimes called “living” trusts - are incredibly flexible and can achieve many other goals, including tax, long-term care, and asset­ protection planning. However, you cannot lake advantage of what the trust has to offer if you do not place your assets into it. If you do not fund die trust, your assets may have to go through a costly probate proceeding or be distributed to beneficiaries you did not intend. Not funding your trust can undermine your whole estate plan. To transfer assets to the trust, whether real estate, bank accounts, or investment accounts, you necd to retitle lhe assets in the name of the trust. Depending on the institution, you miglil be able to change lhe name on an existing account Otherwise you w ill need to open a new account in the name of the trust and then transfer the funds. As long as you ate serving as your ow-n trustee or co-trusiec. you can use your Social Sccunty number for thc trust. If you are placing real estate into thc trust, jou should consult with your attorney to ensure it is done correctly. You should also consult with your attorney before placing life insurance or annuities into a revocable trust. And consult with your attorney before naming the trust as lhe beneficiary of your IRAs or 401 (k) because that could have lax consequence. Once your trust is fully funded, do not forget about it. When you acquire new assets, do not forget to add them to the trust. You should review your trust annually to make sure every thing is titled properly. Set up an appointment with Longstreet Elder Law & Estate Planning. PC to determine whether you have properly funded your Jiving revocable trust and to answer all of your estate planning questions. Robert J. Longstreet Longstreet Elder Law & Estate Planning P.C. 607 North Broadway Hastings. Michigan 49058 269-945-3495 know what they have when wc play together, Sa.xon three-yard-line, lhe Red Wolves gave ' . 2.J hi the first half, we made some huge mistakes. lhe ball to Davis who plunged in for the score. at the half wa>1o make sure lhe defensive linemen weft staying low and misting tcanfj We had some turnovers and that is very That goal-line carry might have gone lo mates. y £ uncharacteristic of us. and it cost us some Hindenach, who carried the Paw Paw offense Hastings had the game’s only two tun£ points on the scoreboard, lhe score right early on. but he left with an injury' two plays before halftime was kind of a killer for us. but earlier and wasn’t able lo return to the ball­ overs, lhe lost fumble .and an interception ax our kids never hung their head. They stayed game. He had 14 carries for 63 yards in lhe well.The Saxons’ lone drive of the first qua* with it and they knew they had a chance the first half. Davis finished with 16 carries for 77 ter was a good one until a sack by Paw Pawfc Jackson Kanntaineri lumed a second-and-gqa> whole game through,’’ yards. from the eight into a third-and-goal from tKe The Saxons got their first points on a Defensive lineman Alex Leonard had a 17 for the Saxons. After an incomplete pa$$ 12-yard touchdown pin by junior running team-high 12 tackles for the Red Wolves. the Saxons were forced to try a field goal back TJ Russell and a two-point run by Robby The statistics were as even as the score­ Slaughter to get within 17-8 with 3:42 to go in board. Hastings out-gained Paw Paw 220 from there, but the snap was just a bit off and a block at the line was just a bit off and AarOn’ the third quarter. yards to 218 on the night. Hastings had 50 Hayes burst through to block the try by Sax pit Running back Will Marshall answered with rushes for 206 yards as a team. Slaughter led a 29-yard touchdown run two minutes into the the Saxons on the ground with 22 rushes for kicker Kaiden Shumway. Paw Paw’s field goal late in the first haff; fourth quarter for Paw Paw. Jose Valverde’s 97 yards. Russell had 15 carries for 89 yards. came al the end of a drive that started whep extra-point kick put his team in front 24-8. Corbin Ulrich led the Saxon defense with Slaughter got the points right back for the 135 tackles from his linebacker spot. Russell Baird intercepted a Denton pass inside the. Red Wolves 30-yard-line with a little ovef. Saxons with a 93-yard kick return for a touch­ and Jackson Dubois had five tackles each. five minutes to play in lhe second quarter. X down. Russell added the two points run to get Murphy said Paw Paw had one of lhe big­ ’’.All in all. it is a great experience for thes^ the Saxons within eight at 24-16. gest offensive lines his team faced this season. kids to be a part ot .something so much bigger “We were hoping"they would give us an 'Hie only real change the Saxon defense made than themselves,” Murphy said. opportunity to retUl^ one. We know what we can do. We have been practicing it. The three four guys that are back there returning, any one of them are electric. Robby just saw a gap up that sideline and he hit it just ri£ht’ cut inside a little out block and he was oft’ to the races.’’ The Hastings defense forced a three-andout and then a bnd snap on the punt forced Red Wolves’ punier to bool a high, short kick Brett Brvmer w ith Eastman in his face l he punt only made that placed firsi and >econd at regional.; Sports Editor it back lo the line ()f ^immage, the Paw Paw limes were merged in lhe end for state plac­ The two fastest races of Delton Kellogg ing and team results. 34-yard-line. when- the Saxons took over on >. offense. 1 senior Micah Ordway’s varsity cross country Benzie Central sophomore Hunter Jone* Slaughter scOretj oll a two-yard run six career earned him state medals. won the individual boys' championship in Ordway seemed his second state medal, for Division 3. finishing the race in 15:28.9^.plays later. The holding Pena,t-V wiped °Ut " dive to the goaL|jne by R”ssdl for lhe lW°’ a top-30 finish at the Division 3 Lower Cass City senior Nick McArdle was the nirf point conversion Jd a second tlag on lhe Peninsula Cross Country Finals, Saturday at ner-up in 15:58.90. *. next attempt had’fL Saxons trying the two- Michigan International Speedway in lhe team championship went to the St. Brooklyn. Ordway, a three times state qualifi­ Louis learn that finished lhe day with 103; point conversion from Demon w as hit a,. |ticl| to gel off a pass on er. finished in less than 17 minutes for lire points. Hart was second with H6, ahead ot l^two-point ltj, leaving <he “I’ second time on thc track in and around the I raverse City St. Francis 182.Calvin Christijp NASCAR track, to place 28th this time 186. Ilanover-Hoiton 205. Caro 207. Ithaca Paw Paw * ( flt>1 17 poinb of lhe around. 223, McBain 224, Stockbridge 315 anil He hit lhe finish line in 16 minutes 55.75 Clinton 342 in lhe top ten game on a lw(,.Saizl „)UchJo"» nm1’> Kl,lh> Hindenach 3:2(h' X ;1 49 >ard seconds. lie placed 30th at the state finals as St. I amis was led lo the title by juniorfield goal |,y with 1:5''« IP '« lhe a junior, setting his personal record with a Aaron Bowerman, who was ninth, overall ip. first half, and n ,i?r *.v.irJ TO r1"’ b> Zc>;1" time of 16.47.8. His time this Saturday was 16:26.66. Personal record were lew and far Davis as lime ,ai| ()h. ■’ the In-'>'»»• Valverde the fastest of his senior season. between throughout much of thc weekend, Ordway had to wail and see how' the final unusual lor lhe slate finals but the event also wa> 3-for-l on kicks on the night. standings would shake out at lhe end of his had some unusually warm weather for the l»s> mnMc *>" ".w J"'1 from scritnnillgc' ||cr Valvw'c ' '“n8 I'cld junior season, and had lo again Uns time first lull weekend in November St. Louis did f’'«U-»ninf:theb l oseriothc Red Wolves around in part because of a new formal tor the get personal records from junior Nate March, at the Saxon ?i, v ime Rather titan seitlmg finals which had thc indo idual stale qualifiers w ho w as 17th in 16:39.47 and freshman Bon. for another VaR’ 4? field duee SCC’ like Ordway running in one nice with teams March who was 23rd in 16:48 59 lo edge the onds left in )Ult and the ball al the that placed third al their regional races. A sec­ Hart boys tor lhe top spot. Han was led by ond race was held in each division lor teams senior Alex Fnnswho placed sixth in 16.21.59. Ordway narrowly earns another all-state medal � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-11-19.pdf b9e96b0b74a31ec9c3456852b215c254 PDF Text Text ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■I Spectrum opens $12 million surgical center I Ben Franklin knew what we’re still finding out See Editorial on Page 4 See Story on Page 2 Vikes at full strength I in regional victory See Story on Page 12 ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■I Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 1070490102590504808749058195427 804879110187 ANNER Thursday, November 19, 2020 VOLUME 167, No. 46 PRICE $1.00 Hastings schools’ preparation make for smooth transition to virtual learning Sophie Bates Staff Writer When the Hastings Area School System announced last week it was moving to virtual learning because of a rise in the number of COVID-19 cases in the community, Sarah Geukes, principal at Central Elementary, and her staff had just hours to send students home with Chromebooks, worksheet packets and other supplies. Luckily, they were ready. “This summer we began preparing and teachers began working on virtual learning plans,” Geukes said. “As the COVID num­ bers began to climb, we knew that it was a more imminent possibility, so teachers were preparing paper packets to complement online learning. So, they’ve been doing that for the last few weeks.” Geukes got the call that the entire Hastings school district was moving to virtual learning around noon Friday, Nov. 13; by the time dismissal came at 2:50 p.m., everything the students needed for virtual learning — which will last at least until Nov. 27 — was tucked away in their backpacks. “Pretty much everything was ready to go,” Geukes said. “All of our teachers had every­ thing prepared a week ahead of time.” In a letter to families, Superintendent Dan Remenap noted part of the reason for switch­ ing to virtual learning is increased infection levels among staff. Even if only one staff member tests positive for CO VID-19, any staff believed to have come in close contact with the infected individual must quarantine, making classrooms difficult to staff. “Please know, again, that there is not a major spread or outbreak going on anywhere in any of our buildings,” Remenap wrote. “It only takes one positive case or two per build­ ing to render it impossible to staff (the dis­ trict) for an extended period of time.” Whether Hastings will return to in-person schooling soon will be determined Friday, Nov. 27, following an assessment of staff health and wellness. Families will be notified via robo-call or email of that decision no later than 7 p.m. Friday evening. “When we started the school year, we knew it would be a year full of challenges and obstacles,” Remenap wrote. “All students should be well prepared as our staff has done an excellent job of planning for this through­ out the school year. Most classes have actual­ ly practiced how online schooling will work, while in person.” See VIRTUAL, page 3 Kendra Killian cuts out a picture for her third-grade class while also viewing online class materials. (Photo provided) TK taps Remenap for superintendent Greg Chandler and Sophie Bates Staff Writers Thornapple Kellogg Schools have chosen a new superintendent. The board of education voted unanimously Tuesday night''to hire "Hastings Area School System Superintendent Dan Remenap to lead the district. Pending agreement on a contract, Remenap would assume his new duties Jan. 1, : >> 2021. The new superintendent will replace for­ mer superintendent Rob Blitchok, who retired at the end of September after two years in that : ‘ capacity. Remenap’s decision to leave his current post was upsetting for Hastings school offi­ cials, who expressed sadness when they learned of his departure. “We understand his desire for professional improvement and understand this decision was right for him,” Hastings school board President Luke Haywood said. “We are very disappointed because we had high hopes for him here at Hastings and he is leaving us in a very difficult time.” Remenap called his decision “gut-wrench­ ing.” “I never came to Hastings with an ‘exit plan’ in mind,” he told The Banner Wednesday, “but the opportunity to work in a larger dis­ trict with a few more resources is an opportu­ nity that I had to seriously consider for my Hastings Area School System Superintendent Dan Remenap shares his 90-day plan with the Thornapple Kellogg Board of Education during his interview Tuesday night at Thornapple Kellogg Middle School. family’s sake.” The Thomapple Kellogg school board’s decision to choose Remenap followed a sec­ ond round of interviews Tuesday with Remenap and Tim Reeves, superintendent of the Shelby Public The two finalists also visited buildings throughout the district - Remenap Monday and Reeves Tuesday - to meet with administrators, teachers and stu­ dents. “I felt like he would be the kind of person who would do a lot more listening and learn­ ing, and would come across as one who is a partner with administrators and teachers in moving things forward,” TK school board President David Smith said. During their interviews Tuesday, the two finalists each presented their plans for what they would do in their first 90 days on the job. Remenap outlined a three-phase plan that places an emphasis on listening and learning. He said he plans to meet individually and in groups with teachers, administrators, board members, students, parents and community members. “I’m going to have as many conversations as I possibly can with key groups in the com­ munity and in the schools, so I can get to know things about TK - norms, goals and initiatives - and gain insight on perceived strengths and weaknesses, not just from peo­ ple in our schools but from the community as a whole,” he said. Remenap also spoke of working with inter­ im Superintendent Dan Takens on a transition plan that would address current and upcoming projects tied to the 2019 passage of a $42.8 million bond'i^sue, as well as the district’s approach to the CO VID-19 virus. At several points during his interview, Remenap spoke on the importance of reihaining optimistic in the face of difficult circum­ stances, such as the pandemic. “We have to believe, in our heart of hearts, that what we’re dealing with is temporary, and we’re going to get through this,” Remenap said. “Challenge and struggle and a little bit of pain can be bonding. I’m hoping this can be a bonding agent for all of us at Thornapple Kellogg Schools.” Remenap also spoke on the need for teach­ ers and administrators to remain positive. “I think education has no room - none - for cynics. Absolutely none,” Remenap said. “Education is hope. It’s the great equalizer for success for all kids. A cynical educator is a crime to our kids.” Remenap’s spirit of optimism made an impression on several board members. “I do think with the world we’re living in, that the optimism and support and engage­ ment of Mr. Remenap would offer would be beneficial to our school district right now,” board member Alexis Snyder said. Board secretary Kristen Cove said he liked Remenap’s approach toward collaboration. “If a hospital learns a new way of CPR to improve patient outcomes, they don’t keep that information to themselves. They share it with their partnersin the .medical communi­ ty,” Cove said. “I really appreciated his desire to be more collaborative.” In Hastings, where Remenap has been superintendent since April 2019, officials expressed disappointment Wednesday when they learned of his departure. “We are all very disappointed that he is leaving so quickly,” Haywood said. “We thought we had hired someone who was going to put down roots in the community and be with us for a long time. “It is very difficult to lose your team leader during this pandemic and be tasked with replacing them. Everyone and everything in the district is under intense pressure and this change will be difficult.” Trustee Dan Patton echoed those feelings. “I’m disappointed in such a quick departure by Mr. Remenap.” Haywood said the school board will likely need to appoint an interim and will meet as soon as possible to discuss their options; there is no timeline yet to appoint a new superinten- See SUPERINTENDENT, page 2 Barry County officials hospitalized with COVID-19 Taylor Owens and Greg Chandler Staff Writers Last Friday, outgoing Barry County Commissioner Dan Parker was hospitalized with COVID-19 at Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids. Parker and his wife, Linda, came down with the virus last week. Linda Parker told The Banner in a tele­ phone interview Tuesday that her symptoms were mild, but her husband’s symptoms were more serious. Parker said she does not know where she and her husband may have contracted the virus. As soon as they became ill, the Parkers notified people they had been in contact with to let them know. She said she was not aware of anyone in their circle who had become ill. Dan Parker was set to take over as Thomapple Township supervisor this month, replacing Mike Bremer. Parker defeated Eric Schaefer in the Republican primary for the supervisor’s office in August. “We have a lot of people praying for him, and that’s the best we can do right now,” Linda Parker said. Meanwhile, Middleville Village President Charlie Pullen is being treated at Spectrum Health Pennock for CO VID-19, Village Manager Patricia Rayl said Tuesday. “He was admitted last week on Wednesday,” Rayl wrote in an email Tuesday. “He’s had issues with his blood oxygen levels since he was admitted, and is on oxygen. I don’t know much more, I’m afraid.” In Barry County, 17.4 percent of CO VID­ 19 tests performed in the county last week were positive. That statistic put Barry County at the 16th highest positivity rate in Michigan. In comparison, Kent County had a 15.9 per­ cent positive rate while Eaton County was at 12.6 positive “Please note that in Barry County, commu­ nity spread is especially high,” Barry-Eaton District Health official Sarah Surna said Tuesday. “We will likely see additional deaths and many more additional cases in the days to come.” This graph tracks the progression of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Barry County since the start of the pandemic. As of Tuesday morning, Barry County had 318 active cases, bringing the total number of cases in the county to 1,407. There were also Tracking COVID deaths in Barry County Barry County recorded two COVID-19 related deaths in the first few months of the pandemic, according to health officials. Now, in less than two months, eight more people have died as a result of the virus. Of that total, eight died in a hospital, while two people died at home. Health officials said those victims were: A 59-year-old woman on April 12. A 29-year-old man on May 21. An 83-year-old woman on Sept. 23. A 93-year-old man on Sept. 28. An 82-year-old woman on Oct. 14. A 79-year-old old man on Oct. 26. A 77-year-old man and an 83-year-old man, both on Nov. 4. A 55-year-old man on Nov. 5. An 81-year-old woman on Nov. 6. 96 probable cases. Ten deaths have been reported in the county since the start of the pandemic. Eaton County had 459 active cases, for a total of 2,120. One new death was reported since last week, bringing the total to 24. The county had 156 probable cases. Michigan set a new record last week for cases of CO VID-19, for the fifth week in a row, at 44,019. As of Friday, 3,220 people were in the hospital. As of Monday, Spectrum Health Pennock had nine COVID-19 patients, with five in the intensive care unit. The hospital’s bed occu­ pancy was at 84 percent. Thomapple Manor has had one additional staff member test positive, bringing the tottjl staff to 23 since the start of the pandemic As of last week, four staff members had tested positive at Hastings Rehab and Healthcare Center. Since then, one resident has since tested positive. L Woodlawn Meadows has had three more staff test positive since last week, bringing the total to six. Sheriff Dar Leaf said the jail has not had seen any cases of CO VID-19. No more sher­ iff’s deputies have contracted the virus since the four who tested positive last month. 5 Gov. Gretchen Whitmer passed an execu­ tive order Sunday, using the authority of the Department of Health and Human Services to limit activities through Dec. 8. According to that order: • Indoor gatherings are only allowed at residential venues. Those gatherings are limit­ ed to 10 people from no more than two house­ holds. • Outdoor gatherings are permitted at resi­ dential venues of up to 25 people, comprised of no more than three households. Outdoor gatherings of up to 25 people are allowed at non-residential venues, if the space is large enough. • Masks are required at gatherings. But the order lists many exceptions to these limits, including childcare, workplace gather­ ings, voting, funerals, public transit, residen­ tial care facilities and more. Business that may remain open include retail stores, gyms and pools for individual See CO VID-19, page 3 �"Page 2 — Thursday, November 19, 2020 — The Hastings Banner $12 million surgical center open at Spectrum Health Pennock Sophie Bates Staff Writer Nov. 16 was the official opening day for Spectrum Health Pennock’s new $12 million Baum Family Surgical Center in Hastings. i Only endoscopies, one of the hospital’s most common procedures, are being per­ formed there during the center’s opening , week. Next week, the center will open for all other surgeries. i The 19,000-square-foot center is replacing • the former surgical center which had infra­ structure dating back to 1923. ‘ “Bringing the infrastructure up to the skills '■•'Mid excellence of the providers is really one of the visions I had,” Spectrum Health Pennock President Angela Ditmar said. “They really need to have the equipment and envi­ ronment to practice at their best.” < The $12 million price tag was split into three payments of approximately $4 million from Spectrum Health Pennock integration, Spectrum Health Pennock Foundation reserves and philanthropy raised through the project’s capital campaign. The center is named for the Larry and Earlene Baum fami­ ly, a major donor for the project. According to Spectrum Health Pennock staff, one of the biggest challenges in the forrper surgical center was a lack of space. It was not unusual to, quite literally, run out of space in the old operating rooms, Andrew Parsons, chief of staff and surgeon, said. , The new center resolves that issue with three state-of-the-art operating rooms — 30 percent larger than former ORs — and two .endoscopy rooms adjoined by a supply room. , “As a team we are looking forward to the wide-open area the new surgical center pro­ vides us and our patients,” Surgery Manager Cheryl Sinclair said. “I’m ecstatic that my Team will all be in one space. Currently, my endoscopy team is in the Wellness Center across the parking lot from the main hospital and my surgical team is located at the hospi­ tal. “By having my team all together, it will allow me increase my presence for all team jriembers and allow us to have all resources available in one space which will improve efficiencies.” , While providing an improved environment Tor staff is one of Ditmar’s goals for the new center, a key is improving the patient experi­ ence. “Another inefficiency with our current space is the fact the patients have to come up three floors to our department. With the new space, our patients will be abie pull up right outside the entrance to the new surgical center and enter under a covered canopy,” Sinclair said. Now, patients are greeted by heated side­ walks at the center’s drive-up entrance which Pre-operation rooms allow patients and families to wait together. The new Baum Family Surgical Center at Spectrum Health Pennock, officially open this week, focuses on an “improved environment” for patients and staff. This view shows the covered heated walkway at the private entrance during construction. gives way to a spacious lobby. Patients and their families enter the pre-operation room and await the surgery together. Afterward, a private hallway and exit maintain patient pri­ vacy. The 15 private patient rooms are sepa­ rated by walls instead of curtains. “It is all about the patient experience,” Sinclair said. “This state-of-the-art design provides our patients with front door access. Single rooms provide our patients with priva­ cy that is desirable. Our new surgical and endoscopy suites will allow us to continue to provide high quality care through improved workflow and efficiency processes. Our exit door that we call ‘almost home’ allows them to exit through an area that is separate from where they entered,” Sinclair said. “It’s exciting fo see staff be able to have such better experience's well as.the patient,” Ditmar said. While unable to hold public tours of the center due COVID-I9, Spectrum Health Pennock is planning to release a virtual video tour of the center for the public. Schools prepare for three-week shutdown Taylor Owens Staff Writer While school officials said the data show high schools have not played a major role in spreading COVID-19, many of them said they view a complete switch to remote learning as inevitable. When Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed an , prder Sunday requiring high schools to move to remote learning for three weeks, until Dec. 8, it was what administrators had been prepar­ ing for since before the school year began. “I was not surprised by the new orders at all, but I was not happy, either,” Hastings Area Schools Superintendent Dan Remenap said Monday. “Because we were about to start virtual schooling today, it did not have too much of an immediate effect on us. “We will have to evaluate where we are when the order is up.” Hastings moved the entire district to remote learning due to a staff shortage, and will remain so until at least Nov. 30. An assess­ ment of staff health and wellness to determine possible reopening is planned for Nov. 27. “School transmission of the virus has never been a problem,” Remenap said of the district. “Staffing is the challenge.” Lakewood Public Schools Superintendent Steven Skalka said he was surprised by the order. “We were regularly told that schools have rarely been points of transmission,” Skalka said. “More often than not, staff and students who test positive are traced back to an activi­ ty/encounter outside of school. So, providing more out-of-school time was surprising.” But, Skalka added, Lakewood is prepared for the switch. “We have looked at this entire school year as an opportunity to try different things and learn from them,” he said. “We have set up a high school schedule for these three weeks that emphasizes student support, in addition to instruction, and will be eager to find out how it goes.” During a Maple Valley Board of Education meeting Nov. 9, Superintendent Katherine Bertolini said she believed it was a matter of “when,” not “if,” the district would need to move to remote learning. After a closed session discussion Monday, the school board voted to move the district’s upper elementary, Maplewood School, and the Jr. Sr. High School, to remote learning until Jan. 19. Fuller Street Elementary will continue in-person learning. Maplewood was closed Tuesday due to a staff shortage. “It is still a challenge to convert from face- --------------------------------------- -— “This is causing another layer of inequity in our state school system. There are many rural districts that do not have internet available to them based on location. This must be addressed if we are to ever have any effective, long­ term virtual learning program. We are doing the best we can with what we have and don’t have - but this gap must be addressed.” Dan Remenap, local superintendent to-face to virtual,” Bertolini said. “But we have a benefit we did not have in the spring, which is enhanced training and teachers who have been teaching virtually since August who can help their colleagues to become acclimated.” Administrators say they are trying to keep students in class as much as possible, but staffing is a continuous challenge. “I would like to make? a plea for substitute teachers,” Skalka said. “We need them! If you need temporary work, call our business office.” “Our community has been supportive of in-person instruction since the start of the school year and we will continue to do what­ ever we can to maintain our in-person pro­ gram for as many students for as long as possible,” Skalka added. “We evaluate on a daily basis if we need to close the elementary or middle school,” Delton Kellogg Schools Superintendent Kyle Corlett said. “Since we are not seeing a spread in the schools and believe we are operating safely, we will continue to leave those schools open. Although we have families who have chosen to do our online program; for those who want to be in-person, we believe that in-person instruction is the most beneficial for students, academically and emotionally.” One of the biggest challenges for rural dis­ tricts during remote learning in the spring was the internet access for students. Superintendents say their districts have taken steps to alleviate some of those issues, but that it will likely remain a challenge. “Our staff is more adept at reaching their kids online, and, as a whole, are more confi­ dent with online resources - like Google Classroom and other online instructional tools - so we should be far more efficient,” Remenap said. “Internet access is a huge chal­ lenge for us. “Our hotspot bill is huge and paying for the service to them is very, very expensive, too.” Administrators said the switch may take some pressure off teachers who have been doing both in-person and online education, although the transition will still be plenty of work. “Our high school principal, Mr. Trieweiler, received a grant on behalf of the district to get 94 hotspots for free from T-Mobile,” Corlett said. “Before acquiring that grant, we had purchased 50 hotspots from Verizon, so we’re in a much better position than last spring.” “We equipped each of our buildings with exterior routers that broadcast the school’s Wi-Fi network outside the building to large sections of a school’s parking lot,” Skalka said. “With this three-week closure, we are setting up the high school auxiliary gym with desks appropriately distanced so that students can come to school to complete their school work if they don’t have internet access at home. That is one of the allowable reasons to have students in the building. Students will need to sign up if they want to ride the bus or be served lunch, but internet access should not be an excuse for not completing school­ work.” “I think we have had some improvements around Wi-Fi access, but it is still a problem for about 25 to 40 percent of our students here in the Valley, so we haven’t resolved it,” Bertolini said. “We will need to do much more interactive teaching with students than we were allowed to do in the spring, so we have been teaching students how to access Wi-Fi to upload and download work while still being able to work offline for the most part on their Chromebooks.” “This really needs to be addressed by our state government,” Remenap said of the inter­ net accessibility issue. “This is causing anoth­ er layer of inequity in our state school system. There are many rural districts that do not have internet available to them based on location. This must be addressed if we are to ever have any effective, long-term virtual learning pro­ gram. “We are doing the best we can with what we have and don’t have - but this gap must be addressed.” Patient rooms are separated by walls instead of curtains. SUPERINTENDENT, continued from page 1 dent. Remenap said he expects to start his new position early in 2021. He said he’s excited for the new opportuni­ ty, but sad to leave Hastings, the colleagues and many friends he’s made here. “I love Hastings; the people, community and the schools are great.” “I am so grateful for my time here and more grateful for the lifelong friends I have made in my brief time in Hastings,” he said. When The Banner asked Remenap what he would like to say to the staff, parents and stu­ dents of the Hastings school district, he apol­ ogized. “I am sorry,” he said. “I never saw this coming, but I had to take advantage of this opportunity for my family. Everyone has been so kind and welcoming. Hastings is a special place and the people here make it so. Thank you.” Prior to coming to Hastings, Remenap served 10 years as principal at Allendale High School, in Ottawa County. Before that, he had been assistant principal at Spring Lake High School, in Ottawa County, for three years. He also taught at Grandville High School in suburban Grand Rapids for 10 years and was once the school’s boys’ varsity basketball coach. Reeves, who has been superintendent of the Shelby Public Schools since February 2018 and previously served as principal at Hamilton High School, also spoke on the importance of meeting with people in the district and the community to listening to their concerns as part of his 90-day plan. He also spoke specif­ ically on the importance of listening to stu­ dents and student groups. “Every time I have sat down with students to just talk to them about school or an idea or a plan, it’s amazing to me when I walk into that conversation, and how I leave with a dif­ ferent understanding of their thinking,” Reeves said. “I think sometimes that may get overlooked a little bit.” Reeves also spoke of synthesizing the information he would collect in those first days on the job and put together a plan to be shared with the board and the community. He spoke of having a retreat or workshop with the board to share that plan. Shelby Public Schools Superintendent Tim Reeves addresses the Thornapple Kellogg Board of Education during his second interview Tuesday night. Board vice president Anne Hamming ini­ tially expressed support for Reeves during board discussion after the interviews, but eventually cast her vote for Remenap. Hamming spoke of Reeves’ “thoughtful, ana­ lytical” approach and his wide-ranging expe­ rience. “He is deliberative. We would not have surprises. He would be thorough. He would use all the avenues available to us,” Hamming said. A total of 25 candidates submitted applica­ tions for the superintendent’s position, accord­ ing to Dave Killips of the Michigan Leadership Institute, a consulting firm that works with school districts on filling superintendent openings. A three-member board personnel commit­ tee, consisting of Smith, Cove and Sarah Alden, were to meet Wednesday night to start the process of drawing up a contract for Remenap. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 19, 2020 — Page 3 VIRTUAL, continued from page 1 Geukes said their preparations have led to a smooth transition thus far. “The teachers are really happy with the participation they are already seeing,” Geukes said Monday. “By 10 o’clock this morning, they were already getting a lot of participa­ tion.” Since most students experienced the switch to remote learning this past spring — in addi­ tion to practice this school year — Geukes said she suspects students are well-equipped for virtual learning. She noted that these stu­ dents have grown up with modem technolo­ gies and have an easier time using and engag­ ing with online school. “Because the students are more capable of interacting with some of the apps aid differ­ ent learning tools the teachers are using, kids can be more engaged,” Geukes said. “The kids knew it was a possibility. You know, they lived through it in the spring, most of them. “We want to make sure that they are engaged as much as possible and able to com­ plete the work.” Christopher Andrews, a fifth-grade teacher at Central Elementary, was part of the team of educators and administrators who helped develop a plan for virtual learning over the summer. “Through careful collaboration and plan­ ning, we took what we learned about virtual learning in the spring and crafted a plan that we felt confident would help us to continue to provide meaningful education to our stu­ dents,” Andrews said. This plan included incorporating educa­ tional technology — like what’s used in virtu­ al learning — into in-person lessons. Throughout the school year, students have used computers and a variety of online resources to prepare for the possibility for First-grader Bryan Killian completes his math homework during the first week of virtual learning. Hastings ’ transition to virtual learning. (Photo provided) First-grade teacher Tamara Reser utilized this approach, as well. “I believe in hoping for the best while pre­ paring for the worst, so while also teaching reading, writing and math, I have been teach­ ing my students how to use their Chromebooks, navigate Google Classroom, join a Google Meet, record their reading on Flipgrid, and access lessons on Zeam and Reading Street — the online companions to our math and reading program,” Reser said, “I would love to have had another week or two to practice, but I am confident that my students have the skills to be successful at home with a little adult guidance.” “It is amazing what first-graders can do!” So far, Reser and Andrews have seen encouraging results. Andrews had 100-percent student partici­ pation in his first virtual class meeting, and both teachers’ had students contact them. “I am proud of how maByreached out to . Lme in a Google Meet duri&gmy office hours -to get help with their work or just check,” Reser said. “I heard from several parents who said the transition went very smoothly and was much easier than in the spring. “I think we have all learned a lot since then.” Second-grader Madison Carley and first-grader Mitchell Carley attend virtual class Jill Smith, Andrews’ fifth-grade teaching session at Central Elementary, using the Chromebooks given to them by the district. partner, also said the transition has been (Photo provided) smooth; the only challenge so far has been decided.” limited internet access for some students. The masks were required.” While health and safety are the school’s top Heide said teachers are working hard and district is currently in the process of getting giving up more of their time to virtual learn­ priorities, she said, they hope to find creative Wi-Fi hot spots for those students. Smith and Andrews’ students have virtual ing than they would in a typical workday: ways of making sure students still get to expe­ class four times a week. Assignments are answering emails well into the evening, rience high school. “I have no doubts that we will continue to posted to Google Classroom — with which unlocking tests and fixing assignments, find­ students are familiar — and lesson recordings ing creative and engaging lesson plans, and put ideas and activities together for the best interest of our kids, regardless of these diffi­ also are posted. Students have several ways to more. Teachers do their work with the academic cult times,” Heide said. “Navigating the chal­ contact teachers if they need help, Smith said. “We have many ways to communicate with and emotional well-being of their students in lenges of health guidelines is at the top of our list as we get creative. But making sure stu­ our students, via email, phone, Google Meet mind, she said. “Our teachers are answering emails, phone dents still get to experience ‘high school’ is and Google Classroom,” she said. “If I notice students are struggling, I will be in contact to calls, correcting papers all day and into the the cherry on the top.” evening because they want so much for their assist them.” While Geukes, Central Elementary staff students to thrive - especially now,” Heide and the rest of the Hastings district are taking said. “Just as important is the emotional their first explorative step into full virtual health of our students. We worry about how learning, the high school already has had they are managing this ‘new normal.’ “Teachers will connect with students just to some experience on this front. Hastings High School students returned to hear their voice and make sure they are doing in-person learning Nov. 9 after a two-week OK.” The key that’s most important to success in shutdown. The shutdown occurred after one teacher tested positive for COVID-19 and virtual learning is the interaction between eight others were designated close contacts, students and teachers, Heide said. &J&WOE “If these two moving parts are working like causing a staff shortage. Principal Teresa Heide said the recent shut­ well-oiled machines, then great learning is down and previous preparations have made happening,” she said. With Gov. Whitmer’s new orders — which the transition to virtual learning easier. “You never know how the ‘paper plan’ will canceled organized sports and in-person transition into a ‘real life plan,’ but I have to learning for high schools — students are say, it worked very well the first time we had missing out on in-person school as well as to execute it a few weeks ago,” Heide said. extracurricular activities. Heide said it sad­ “We had the normal kinks to work out with dens her that students, especially seniors, are technology and such but, after that, things missing out on the traditional high school experience. were very smooth. “My heart goes out to our seniors this year, “I heard teachers’ excitement as they shared that they could actually see their students’ as well as last year’s. It’s so hard to see them faces — no masks! It was quite fun to see who not experience the true ‘senior year,’ ” Heide was behind the mask, especially for our fresh­ said. “What we’ve learned through all of this men. We have not really had a chance to see is that kids are pretty resilient. They go with who they are because, when we started school, the flow fairly easily with whatever has been A new sculpture, “What’s Next World?” greets passersby at the Kellogg Community College campus on the north side of Battle Creek. (Photo by Simon Thalman) KCC installs new sculpture ‘What’s Next World?’ in Battle Creek Hope has come to Battle Creek, and she’s got the whole world at her fingertips. That’s the message of the latest sculptural addition to the permanent art collection at Kellogg Community College, unveiled during . a ceremony Nov. 9 on the main campus. The | 4.5-foot bronze sculpture - stationed at the % corner of North and Roosevelt avenues - is s titled ‘What’s Next World?” and features a ■ young girl named Hope standing on a podium, holding the planetgEarth in an outstretched palm while looking over campus. The sculpture was created by 1965 Harper Creek High School graduate Paula Blincoe, who started her college education at KCC, and was gifted to the college by the Battle 2 Creek branch of the American Association of , University Women. The group began raising funds in 2017 for the project in celebration of -• its 100th anniversary, creating the AAUW ; Battle Creek Centennial Legacy Community Project Fund through the Battle Creek Community Foundation. KCC President Dr. Adrien Bennings at the unveiling ceremony congratulated the AAUWBC on 100 years of service in Battle Creek and said the college is “proud to be the home of Hope.” “When you think of art, art brings life, it invokes something in the campus, in the community, and it stirs something within,” Dr. Bennings said. “As an affiliate college of AAUW, We are honored that the local chapter chose KGC to display this meaningful sculpture that will be a constant reminder not drilyof AAtJWV mission but our shared Vrs%h that all paths are possible, and the need for thought and education to accomplish that dream” Sculptural details include “AAUW” embossed on Hope’s dress, a star on the globe indicating the location of Battle Creek, and books in Hope’s other hand, including subjects such as rocketry and science. In an artist’s statement, Blincoe said the sculpture was intentionally designed tb embody the AAUW mission of advancing equity for women and girls. “I was thinking about the hope and strength the community of members have given to so many young women to think outside the box,” Blincoe said. “The group has given so many the means and opportunity to explore all the possibilities outside of traditions. ... All paths are possible and need to have thought and education to accomplish the journey. “My hope is that park visitors will reach up and touch the ‘world’ for luck and inspiration, or perhaps take a moment to examine how their actions will impact the world,” she said. The sculpture is the latest addition to the college’s continuing North End Gateway project, which has been in development since 2017. In addition to the sculptural pad area, the project includes a paved pedestrian path, a large “Welcome to Battle Creek” monument sign, a bike rental station and new landscaping including trees and native plants. The intent of the project was to create a welcoming, inviting space for people to gather, walk or ride on campus, located near the college’s tennis courts and connected to the city’s linear park pathway system. More information can be found at kellogg. edu/art-on-campus. COVID-19, continued from page 1 exercise, hair salons, barber shops, profes­ sional sports without spectators, healthcare, manufacturing, construction and other work that is impossible to do remotely. All work that can be done remotely is required to do so. Businesses which have been ordered closed include group fitness classes, bingo halls, casinos, arcades, bowling centers, ice skating rinks, indoor water parks, movie theaters, stadiums and live events. Indoor dining is not allowed, although out­ door dining, takeout and delivery food is allowed. Colleges, universities and high schools may no longer have in-person learning. Pre­ school through eighth grade classes may have in-person learning. School sports are not allowed. “We hope this order can help turn around the rates of coronavirus that we are seeing in Barry and Eaton counties,” a press release from the health department said Monday. “Please do your part to follow the order and help flatten the curve.” Did you know that you can read The Hastings Banner in an ELECTRONIC and PRINT edition? “I heard teachers’ excitement as they shared that they could actually see their students’ faces — no masks! It was quite fun to see who was behind the mask, especially for our freshmen. We have not really had a chance to see who they are because, when we start­ ed school, masks were required.” - Hastings High School Principal Teresa Heide RECENT STORIES - WEEKLY UPDATES NEWS SPORTS COURT NEWS LEGALS MORE pfOU WANT TO THANK STOM YARD SIGNS? T MESSAGE Oft Here! p-'*' MFt | Hastings DeMXfdiultwfnStMXH of Berre CountvSnte IS56 DANNER (269) 945-9554 www.hastingsbanner.com I . | �Page 4 — Thursday, November 19, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Did you see? A tip of the cap to this veteran Sometimes, details can get lost amid a larger picture. Not on Veterans Day. That’s a day when details matter. Last week, ceremonies took place across the county to mark that day, as they do each year, at the 111*1 hour on the 11^ day of the 11th month. The observance is intended to honor all veterans who have served this nation - in war or peace dead or alive. But, most of all, it’s intend­ ed to thank those veterans who are with us now for their service and their sacri­ fices. This particular photo gives an example of the level of community engagement on the part of this particular American Legion Post 45 member, Marvin Mason. As one of the pins states: Still serving America. Yes, indeed. Do you remember? Whole-hearted giving Banner Nov. 22,1973 Everyone contributes - Director Richard Fluke arranged a program to honor personnel in 11 Pennock Hospital departments, since all contributed to the United Fund campaign. Thursday, Nov. 15, employees were treated to refreshments and received surprises, provided by Hastings industries. They included ballpoint pens, perfume samples, eyeglass-cleaning tissues and individual corsages and boutonnieres for each employee attending. Pennock’s donations totaled $1,894, an increase of more than $500 over last year’s total. Workers in 11 of the 14 hospital departments reached the 100 percent employee contribution goal. Ron Danford, food service manager, prepared a special cake with the inscription: “100 percent -1 gave my fair share.” Pat Vaughan, personnel manager, was general chairman of the hospital employee drive. Pictured (from left) are Elizabeth Stuart, Joyce Gentry, Walt Endsley, Emilene Marrra, Vaughan, Mary McKibben, Leonard Tripp, Delores McMullen, Ed Wietnik, Nila Trick and Jack VanHouten. Have you met? Virginia Garvey, and her older sisters Janet and Karen, opened Sisters Fabrics in Hastings more out of necessity than entrepreneurialism. With three growing boys in her home — each of whom had difficulty finding clothes to fit — Garvey needed access to fabrics and sewing materials, whether she made clothing for them or altered store-bought clothes. “Most usually, we can’t go to a store and get the right size to fit us,” Garvey said. “I had one son that was more husky, and we were always having to shorten the jeans quite a bit, and the other two were small and skinny, so we had trouble that way, too.” But Garvey and her sisters couldn’t find the materials they needed; so, instead, they found another way to get them. “Three of us went together at first to start the store because we couldn’t always get the supplies we needed,” Garvey said. “We decided to go ahead and open the store to attain these things we needed.” “We wanted to sew — have the things we needed for our families — to be able to sew for them like that.” Now, Sisters Fabrics — currently in its 45th year of serving the Hastings community — has just about any material or resource needed for fabric-based projects like sewing or quilt-making: buttons, zippers, thread, lace trim, bias tape, quilt binding and more. Similarly, Sisters Fabrics carries a wide variety of fabrics including marine-quality vinyl, fleece, cotton, quilting fabric and flannel. It also offers a variety of alteration or repair services, ranging from shoe and belt repair to sewing machine repairs. More importantly though, Garvey said she and her employees do what they can to take care of their customers and community. “We give free advice — provided people want it — how to sew on a button, how to put a collar on a shirt, where somebody is located in town,” Garvey said. “I do pray for my customers. We all need that - especially now with what’s going on. Well, we’re here to listen to people, too. A lot of people are feeling lonesome and stressed and we just listen to them, and that helps them and helps us, too, I suppose. “We all miss that right now.” For her dedication to her customers and providing materials and services to the community for 45 years, Virginia Garvey is this week’s Banner Bright Light. First job: I actually worked at the Hastings City Bank in 1958, although I babysat before that. If I could go anywhere in the world: I always wanted to go to Hawaii, but that is just a dream now. We didn’t make it — and, no, I don’t want to go to Hawaii now. My favorite book: The Bible. Person I’d most like to meet: Well, that’s the Lord Jesus. Favorite season and why: It’d have to be Christmas because it’s a time when families get together. What motivates me: Work Greatest song ever written: “In the Garden” is actually a hymn. In My Opinion What Ben Franklin knew that we’re still finding out Ben Franklin knew a thing or two about news. Franklin was only 23 when he published the Pennsylvania Gazette. He started working in the business as a teenager and he understood the vital role of the newspaper. In printing, Franklin found a way to “do well by doing good.” He used his publica­ tions to communicate his ideas and promote open and spirited dialogue on the pressing issues of the day. As an early pioneer in the newspaper industry, he held that publishers were ethi­ cally bound to avoid injury to others by not publishing “scurrilous and defamatory” material. He also believed that the public good was better served if the newspaper allowed for both sides of a story to be aired: “When Truth and Error have fair play,” he wrote, “the former is always an overmatch for the latter.” Franklin knew the importance of a trust­ worthy newspaper to the health and well-be­ ing of the community it serves. And he saw public service as a key reason for its exis­ tence. No disagreement there. Despite all the advancements and hightech delivery methods, the essential purpose and importance of a news organization in the community hasn’t changed since Franklin wrote his famous Silence Dogood letters. From a town crier on the comer to The Banner newspaper online or in your mail­ box, a critical purpose remains unchanged: To inform. But there are other benefits to our partic­ ular brand of community journalism - and, amid this COVID-19 pandemic, it appears that some people are beginning to figure it out. Maybe people are getting sick of all the junk on social media. (Can’t say we blame them.) Perhaps they’re tired of binge-watching TV shows that ultimately rot their brains. (Some studies back this up.) Reading local news is active for the brain, not passive. It’s informative. It’s good for you. And it’s fun. Folks are finding this out. We are pleased to report that subscrip­ tions to The Banner are growing. And we’re receiving some rave reviews from readers telling us they like what they’re reading - online and in print. They subscribe and step into a world where they can keep in touch with their community. Last week’s edition, for example, offered the news of the day along with an account of a Veterans Day observance, with local vet­ eran Jim Atkinson embracing the flag during the ceremonies on that blustery day. Readers can figuratively walk through that world of local news at their own pace, in their own order. They can follow their own particular interests. Sports first? Sure, why not? Letters to the editor next? What are neigh­ bors writing about, now that the election’s over? Last week, they learned that the county jail access control system malfunctioned and can’t be fixed so the commissioners approved replacing it. One township is plan­ ning cemetery cleanup. Another is preparing for snow removal. And what about the city’s new Department of Public Services Director Travis Tate? They can find out more about him in the news profile we published. The Banner is filled with news about people - from the marriage licenses to the names of all the students on the Hastings Middle School honor roll to the obituaries of loved ones who recently died. These are the stories that make up the life of the community. These are the stories that connect people in the community to each other. In last week’s edition, there was an article and photos about the county government expressing its appreciation to employees for their good service - a reassuring affirmation during a time of pandemic. And perhaps the most touching story of all came from The Banner’s newest report­ er, Staff Writer Sophie Bates, who told of Star Elementary students and their response to an entreaty sent by a balloon that traveled 162 miles from a nursing home in Merrillville, Ind. The nursing home residents asked for a letter from whoever received the balloon. The result? Those 38 residents got about 250 letters from the children at Star Elementary. The life enrichment director at the nurs­ ing home choked up during the interview as she spoke of the significance of this contact for their residents. The importance of that caring connection, that necessary human contact, is certainly obvious to them; the pandemic may be mak­ ing that need for human contact more obvi­ ous to others. Perhaps that’s yet another reason why more people are reading and subscribing to The Banner. I’m glad they can do so. In nearby communities, there isn’t much local news to get - because it just doesn’t exist. No news staffs like ours are covering schools, local government, or business. At UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media, they call this phenomenon the “Rise of the Ghost Newspaper.” Barry County is surrounded by communi­ ties where these ghosts, the detritus of news behemoths, have maintained what they pri­ vately call “a shadow presence” in places they purport to serve. In the midst of that desert is this oasis with a locally owned news organization, led by its flagship, The Banner, which has been in existence since 1856. As long as our readers support us, this small staff will continue to produce exclu­ sive, comprehensive local news coverage with a mission to inform and educate. Franklin had it right about local news. It’s imperative to the health and well-being of a community and a democracy. But he wasn’t right about everything: The bald eagle is most certainly a better choice for our national bird than a wild tur­ key. Rebecca Pierce Editor in Chief J-Ad Graphics, Inc. Hastings school board to meet Nov. 27 The Hastings Area School System Board of Education will meet Monday, Nov. 27, in a virtual format. The meeting can be accessed on the school district’s Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/ HastingsAreaSchoolSystem/ Usually the board meets the third Monday of each month, but postponed this November meeting to the fourth Monday to give Tim Berlin, assistant superintendent of operations and the head of the finance committee, time to put together a budget amendment. Know Your Legislators: Virginia Garvey It’s probably one of the first ones that I learned as a child. What I’d tell a high school graduate: Well, first off, they all need to meet the Lord Jesus Christ as their savior — that’s the first thing. And then, set a goal and reach for it. I’m most proud of: Probably my children and their accomplishments. Greatest thing about Barry County: The friendliness of the people. What I want for Christmas: Nothing. When you get to be my age, you want to clear but the house rather than fill it. Each week, the Banner profiles a person who makes the community shine. Do you know someone who should be featured because of volunteer work, fun-loving personality, for the stories he or she has to tell or any other reason? Send information to Newsroom, Hastings Banner, 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058; or email news@j-adgraphics.com. Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; U.S. mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, phone (202) 224-4822. Gary Peters, Democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510­ 2202, phone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room 720, 110 Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 233­ 9150. President’s comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 19, 2020 — Page 5 -a GUEST EDITORIAL How Michigan can fight COVID-19 Mackinac Center for Public Policy The severity of the state’s reaction to the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak took many Michiganders by surprise. It seemed one morning they dropped their kids off at school, put in a full day at work and met a friend for coffee; the next morning, school was canceled for the year and they were under a stay-athome order. It is no exaggeration to say this outbreak has disrupted the lives of millions of Michiganders. After consulting with our members, advis­ ers and other scholars, these principles are the ones our organizations believe will help guide the state through this difficult period. We aim to maintain public safety while simultaneousj ly igniting a full and speedy economic recov­ ery. While these principles do not address every issue related to this coronavirus outbreak, we hope they will prove a valuable guide for the important decisions policymakers must make in the near future. Public Health and State of Emergency • Public Health First: Policymakers’ No. 1 priority should be to protect the public health, but also remember that productive, rewarding work is a key to our physical and mental well-being. The state should focus on metrics related to safety and help businesses create safe workplaces as soon as possible. Businesses that can reopen responsibly using recognized safety protocols should be allowed to do so. • We Must Live With Risk: Every day, mil­ lions of Michiganders take countless risks to their health and safety — driving their cars, working around the house, eating out. These are risks we are comfortable taking regularly, and eliminating all of them is not a realistic standard. Michigan’s economic recovery must start even in the face of some risk. • This Emergency is Temporary: Even though the emergency declaration Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued was necessary, the Legislature remains an important voice in the debate and should evaluate the current and future orders, consistent with their powers. In addition, lawmakers and interested parties should thoroughly review the emergency powers in statute and improve them to better address future crises. Policy Guidelines • Consistency and Clarity: Policymakers will have to make many important decisions in the near future. They should strive for con­ ; sistency and clarity, as these decisions will impact entrepreneurs, job providers and their employees. Nbiie of these decisions are easy, but the ability of businesses to adjust is improved if they are clear and follow a pre­ dictable logic. • Transparency: The law grants the gover­ nor extraordinary power during a time of cri­ sis, but that should not diminish the responsi­ bility the government has to be transparent to the public. Policymakers should openly explain their decisions and the supporting rationale used to make them. This will help foster trust with Michiganders, many of whom have been severely impacted by these emer­ gency orders. • Resist Playing Favorites: While some firms have been impacted more than others, policymakers should not single out certain industries and businesses for special treatment in the recovery. Nearly every business has been impacted one way or another, and recov­ ery policies should apply as broadly as possi­ ble. The Economic Recovery • Economic Growth and Public Health Go Hand-in-Hand: There is no need to sacrifice public health for economic growth, or vice versa. But there is a negative impact on public health from economic recessions, too. Policymakers need to make this part of the equation when crafting policies for the emer­ gency and for the recovery. • A Limited Role for Government: While providing important support and guidance, policymakers should view their role as a lim­ ited one in the recovery. It will be Michigan’s entrepreneurs and hard-working employees who will ultimately rebuild Michigan’s econ­ omy. Recovery plans should not be focused on expanding government’s reach or creating new government departments. • Focus on the Fundamentals: Full eco­ nomic recovery will require creating a fertile environment for new businesses to start and incumbent firms to create new jobs. This should be the primary focus of state aid and policy in the recovery: promote free enter­ prise, entrepreneurship and new job creation. The COVID-19 outbreak may be the most significant public health crisis our country has faced in a century. Although the immediate outlook is challenging and uncertain and we cannot yet tell the full damage this contagion might cause, we must take steps as soon as possible to restart our economy. Because we know Michigan employers and employees are resilient, we are confident our state will recover. If policymakers provide an appropriately limited and supporting role, Michigan can come out of this even stronger than before. ‘ ; The Mackinac Center for Public Policy, a free-market think tank founded in 1987, ijs headquartered in Midland. RPM Act necessary for racers, businesses To the editor: I respectfully request that Congress pass the Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports Act, H.R. 5434/S. 2602, in 2020. The bipartisan RPM Act protects the right to convert an automobile or motorcycle into a racecar used exclusively at a track. Modifying a vehicle into a racecar is an integral part of America’s automotive heritage. Many types of racing, including NASCAR, were founded on the premise that street vehicles, including motorcycles, can be converted into dedicated race vehicles. Racing events are economic drivers for many communities and a source of affordable family-friendly entertainment for millions, with participants who range from professionals The lockdown To the editor: Our world has become so “foreign” to me. This pandemic has stolen our lifestyle making us prisoners in our own homes. Fear rages among our people, causing panic and greed. Old aging seniors in nursing homes are deprived of their loved ones’ visits - and they are terrified and lonely. If their spouse is liv­ ing, they worry about the sanity and health of their beloved. Loneliness dwells within. Man alone cannot control this deadly virus and only God can create a miracle. Prayer relieves the soul’s cry for help, let­ ting our burdens rest in His hands. I am praying for the day when joy and health return to our nation. Norma Earl, Hastings to novices using converted race vehicles. Congress never intended for the Clean Air Act to apply to motor vehicles modified for competition use only. However, the EPA maintains that Clean Air Act requires converted vehicles driven exclusively on the track to remain emissions-compliant. The RPM Act clarifies that transforming To the editor: Right now, I am listening to the sound of a chain saw as my new, wonderful lake neighbors have a 300-year-old oak tree cut down. I am a retired biology teacher, and I know the benefits of trees, so it pains me to see one cut down. We are blessed with lots of trees in Barry County, but let’s not take them for granted. Here are some benefits of trees: One mature tree can evaporate 72 gallons of water a day, lowering the temperature around it, while producing the oxygen we need to breathe. When a tree grows, more than 90 percent of its dry weight comes from carbon dioxide CALL US TODAY FOR X* A FREE ESTIMATE published by... Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 News and press releases: news@j-adgraphics.com •Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com in the air. That is hard to fathom since carbon dioxide is invisible to us, but that is true. Carbon dioxide in our atmosphere traps heat from the sun. More carbon dioxide means more ice caps melting, entering' as liquid, into our water cycle. With rising lakes, stronger winds and heavier rainfall, we are all feeling the effects of climate change caused by too much carbon dioxide in the air. President Trump suggested we need do plant a billion more trees. I agree. 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CSLB# 1035795 DOPL #10783658-5501 License# 7656 License# 50145 License# 41354 License# 99338 License# 128344 License# 218294 License# 603 233 977 License# 2102212986 License# 2106212946 License# 2705132153A License# LEAFFNW822JZ License# WV056912 License# WC-29998-H17 Nassau HIC License# H01067000 Registration# 176447 Registration# HIC.0649905 Registration# C127229 Registration# C127230 Registration# 366920918 Registration# PC6475 Registration# IR731804 Registration# 13VH09953900 Registration# PA069383 Suffolk HIC License# 52229-H Barry Community Free Dental Clinic (Low income, uninsured persons over age 18) The clinic has dentists continually donating services. **Income verification required** Please apply at THANK YOU VOTERS OF RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP FOR ELECTING IVIE A TRUSTEE OF THE TOWNSHIP BOARD GENE D. HALL Devoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 Mike Stede, Woodland urn . NO MORE GUTTER CLEANING, OR YOUR MONEY BACK GUARANTEED! I LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU The Hastings BcUHldT /* .. ** i Don’t take trees for granted MY PROMISE TO HELP KEEP YOU INFORMED OF TOWNSHIP ISSUES THROUGH AN INTERACTIVE WEBSITE CAN BE SEEN AT GENE4RUTLAND.COM The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. motor vehicles into racecars used exclusively for competition does not violate the CAA. It is imperative that Congress pass the RPM Act to provide long-term certainty to racers an$ motorsports parts businesses. J J XIIKING Hiring Event Viking and Manpower partnering together on Saturday, November 21 9:00 am -12 noon Viking - East Campus 321 N. Industrial Park Drive Bany County United Way (269) 945-4010 MICHAEL KINNEY PLUMBING Licensed Master Plumber Licensed Journeyman Plumber New construction, remodel, repair, drain cleaning. BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEATERS Same Day Installation License #8110376 Office (269) 948-2248 & Insured Mobile (269) 838-5112 T’/ia/iT' Pea The family of Linda Campbell would like to thank you very much for the cards, flowers, food, donations, and expressions of sympathy shown following her passing. The family would also like to thank the Pennock Emergency Room staff, the 3rd floor staff of Pennock, Spectrum Hospice, and Girrbach Funeral Home. Your support at this difficult time was very much appreciated and of great comfort to all of the family. Thankyou again... (across from the main building next to Barry County Lumber) Frank Campbell cvember S 20% Off fabrics Immediate Interviews for Full time employment - All Shifts • Sprinkler Workcell Operators • Material Handlers • Trim Assembly Operators • Controls Engineer • HR Coordinator • Temp to perm positions available Competitive wages & benefits * Excludes Sale Items* *Ends 11-30-20* New collections by Moda® Pray. Tor Our Nation't? QUESTIONS: ASK US... Viking is an Equal Opportunity Employer 218 E. State St., Hastings • 945-9673 Frederic Jacobs Publisher & CEO Hank Schuuring CFO • NEWSROOM• Rebecca Pierce (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer (Sports Editor) Sophie Bates Greg Chandler Luke Froncheck Taylor Owens OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Classified ads accepted Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Scott Ommen Mike Gilmore Manpower Hulst Cleaners Pick-Up Station Ty Greenfield Jennie Yonker Subscription Rates: $52 per year in Barry County $60 per year in adjoining counties $65 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: P.O. Box 188 Hastings, Ml 49058-0188 Second Class Postage Paid at Hastings, Ml 49058 Call to place year Hastings Banner ad 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 �Page 6 — Thursday, November 19, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Duane Oren Wills Mary Elaine Houseman Orpha Agnes Baker Mary Elaine (Smith) Houseman, age 90, died Nov. 6, 2020 at home with her family. Mary was bom on Dec. 24, 1929 in Assyria Township, the daughter of Merna Belle (Smith) and George Cashmore. Mary is survived by her sister, Viola Willard; daughter, Diana (Ralph) Knapp; sons, Mike (Norelea) Houseman, David Houseman, Mark (Arthur Camacho) Houseman, Jason Houseman; eight grandchildren and ten great­ grandchildren. Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her foster mother, Lena Lipkey; sisters, Minnie May Cashmore, Alberta Payne, Barbara Carter; brothers, Albert Smith, George Cashmore and Buddy Graham. Mary was raised in Hastings. She attended Battle Creek Academy, where she excelled in piano, flute, sewing and home economics, graduating in 1950. She was a lifelong faithful member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. She taught children’s Sabbath School for many years and later served as a deaconess and greeter. Mary owned her own day care business and was a foster mother for many years. She loved babies and children. She stayed in touch with many of the children that she cared for and never officially retired! Mary enjoyed cooking, baking, walking, biking, bird watching, crafts, fabric painting, collecting dolls, going out to eat, people watching, shopping and traveling. She loved music, especially country, country gospel and easy listening. She had a green thumb, enjoyed gardening - growing beautiful flowers. She stayed active throughout most of her life, often reminiscing by looking through her photos of days gone by... Mary’s life was celebrated by her family with a graveside service at Hastings Township Cemetery on Nov. 7, 2020. Rev. Jeff Dowell officiated. Duane (Duke) Oren Wills was born on Feb. 19, 1933, in Battle Creek. He later moved to Nashville with his family. He graduated from Bellevue in 1952. He played high school football and was a key player in leading his team to many victories. Then he took a short course at Michigan State in dairy farming. While there he took up wrestling. He married Doreen Mix on Sept. 25, 1954 at the First Presbyterian Church in Hastings. Duane retired from General Motors in Lansing where he worked for 32 years until March 31, 1995. He is also retired from the Crystal Michigan Fire Dept, in 1986; and he retired from the Carson City Fire Dept, in 1995. He also worked for Walmart, Dreisbach Motor Sales and Pro-Auto in Hastings. He is survived by his son, David (Jill) Wills of Stanton; daughter, Christine Wills of 7 Carson City; twin sister, Janice Knickerbocker of Wellston; sister, Doreen (James) Anderson of Crystal; four grandchildren; five great­ grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Carrie Wills; and many more nieces and nephews, friends and family who will miss him dearly. Duane was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Doreen; and his son, Stanley. Duane enjoyed working in the woods and cutting up trees that had fallen down and making firewood. He enjoyed camping in their fifth wheel trailer. He really liked to listen to good old country western music. He / also enjoyed mowing and tending to his lawn. ’ Visitation will be held on Monday, Nov. 16, 2020 from noon to 2 p.m. at Lux and Schnepp Funeral Home, Carson City. Interment will follow in Crystal Cemetery after the visitation. Memorial contributions can be made in Duane’s name to a charity of one’s choice. < Hi Worship ± Together ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "We Exist To Be An Expression Of Who Jesus Is To The World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy., P.O. Box 8, Hastings. Telephone 269­ 945-9121. Email hastfmc@ gmail.com. Website: www. hastingsfreemethodist.com. Pastor Brian Teed, Assistant Pastor Emma Miller, Worship Director, Martha Stoetzel. Sunday Morning Worship: 9am and 10:30 a.m. Due to the current health crisis, our nursery is remains closed. Weekly activity bags for chilren are available in the 9 a.m. service and Kid's Church is available in our 10:30 service. Our worship center is set up for social distancing. Aftermath Student Ministries: Sunday 6 p.m. ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. 269-945­ 4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip. Mass 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Mass 8 and 11 a.m. Sunday. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30-8 p.m., Kids 4 Truth (Children Kindergarten-5th Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information. 301 E. State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948­ 0900. Website: www.lifegatecc. com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel­ chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m. CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328! N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616-690-8609. PLEAS ANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, MI 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 10 a.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCfi OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Box 765, (comer of Milo Rd. & S. M­ 43), Delton, MI 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204­ 9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11:30am, Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer time 6:30 to 7:30 pm. This information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, the churches and these local businesses: Graphics 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 A. VI Fiberglass fflWMPMIW Produc,s 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 Orpha Agnes Baker (Gray) Babe , age 100 years and 7 months, of Clark Retirement Community, Clark on Keller Lake, formerly of Lake City and Caledonia. The widow of Forrest Baker passed away on November 12, 2020 and will be greatly missed by many. Surviving are her son, Bernard Baker; granddaughter, Kathleen Baker; her sister, Patricia Gray Foster; sister-in-law, Pat Gray; many nieces, nephews and great nieces, nephews and friends. Agnes was bom March 24, 1920 in Merritt, to Margaret (Nixon) and Harry Gray. She graduated from Lake City High School and worked for Health Dept. #1 (First Health Dept, in the State of MI) right out of high school in Lake City and surrounding areas. She married Forrest Baker in 1941 and they made their home in Caledonia. Agnes was a good bookkeeper and worked in the Middleville and Caledonia State banks. In 1952 she was widowed at the age of 32 and raised her son alone, with support of her family. She worked at Nelson B. Good and Sons Chevrolet in Caledonia and in 1964 started work at Community Health Services before moving to Grand Rapids in 1973. She retired in 1988 after 22 years at Community Health Services. She loved working outside and, like her roses and impatiens, thrived in the wonderful outdoors. She was a proud volunteer'with : the Sunshine Gqil$ ^FKept Community; Hospital for many years. After moving to Clark on Keller Lake in 2005 she continued her volunteering by staffing their market, organizing and playing games with other residents and working the annual craft sales at the “big house.” Over the years, she accumulated over 10,000 volunteer hours. Until a few years ago, she was very active and walked at least a mile each day and clocked up around 365 miles annually. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and brothers, Raymond “Bud” and George; sisters, Marguerite and Mary; brothers-in-law; her nephew, Raymond Whitney; and her much loved daughter-in­ law, Carol. Due to COVID-19, there will be no visitation or service. Agnes will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband in Lake City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Clark Benevolent Fund or a charity of your choice are encouraged. Condolences may be sent online at www. mkdfuneralhome .com. 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 Hastings library reverting to mostly remote service Due to the rising cases of COVID-19 locally and statewide, and with guidance from state health and occupation officials, the Hastings Public Library Board and library leadership decided to close the library to the public effective Wednesday, Nov. 18. While closed, the drive-through will be open for item pickups, fax and copies, and library card renewals. Items can be reserved for pickup in four ways, library director Peggy Hemerling said: • Through online accounts. • Texting a request to 269-818-8590. • Calling the library, 269-945-4263 • Sending an email to staff© hastingspubliclibrary.org. Computer time will be available by appointment starting Friday. Individuals wishing to use a library computer may call 269-945-4263 to reserve a 30-minute time slot. Returns can be made through the designated slots near the drive-through window. “We hope this closure is temporary and will reopen to the public when conditions improve,” Hemerling said. Charles IV. Fetterley, Jr. Charles William “Cork” Fetterley, Jr., age 69, passed away peacefully on Nov. 13, 2020 at his home. Cork was bom Aug. 11, 1951 in White Cloud, the son of Charles William Fetterley, Sr. and Joyce (Golden) Fetterley. He is survived by his wife of 13 years, Lori (Piper) Fetterley. Also surviving are his children, Wil (Kelly) Fetterley, Nikki (Donny) Blankenship, Heather (Craig) Stapley; stepdaughters, Samantha (Jesse) Berens and Amanda Darrow; brother, Tom (Judy) Fetterley; sister, Mel Risner; and sister-in­ law, Evon Fetterley. He was a loving grandfather and great­ grandfather to his many grandkids. He was very close to his nieces and nephews as welt Everyone who knew Cork knew of his passion for deer hunting and the fellowship he shared at deer camp with his friends. He also loved fishing, having lived many years on Cloverdale Lake. Cork was most proud of his service and membership at the Delton VFW and Moose Lodge. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Sonny Fetterley and Rex Fetterley; brother-in-law, Ted Risner, and father-in-law, Roger Piper Sr. Cork shared a special bond with his grandmother and grandfather, Tom and Hazel Hepinstall who preceded him in death years ago. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the safety of out community, a memorial service will be held at a future date. Memorial contributions to Delton VFW Post 422 will be appreciated. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Cork’s family. Daniel Lee Bell Daniel Lee Bell of Hastings, died on November 9,2020 at age 75. Daniel was bom on March 10, 1945 in Hastings, the son of Ray and Doris (Hammond) Bell. He graduated from Hastings High School and served in the United States Army for three years. He retired from Hastings Manufacturing after 38 years. He loved hunting and fishing. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Nancy. He is survived by his wife, of 45 years, JoAnn (Sang Im) Bell; daughter, Ashleigh Hale; sons, Dan (Kelly Jewel) Bell, Ray (Lisa) Bell, Tom (Heidi Reyes) Bell; 10 grandchildren; one great grandchild; brothers, Raymond, Ralph, and Fred; sisters, Shirley, Mary, and Janet. There are no services planned. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Hastings. To leave online condolences visit www.girrbachfuneralhome .net. Winnifred M. Haines Helena Braendle Riekse Helena Braendle Riekse, age 98, was bom on her grandparents (Friend) farm in Clarksville on Sept. 24, 1922 and died on Nov. 13, 2020 in Grand Rapids. She was the daughter of Kenneth and Annabell (Friend) Braendle and older sister of K Whitney, Phyllis, Neil, Jim and Jack, all of whom pre­ deceased her. She was raised in Clarksville, and at age 12 assumed the care of her siblings after the untimely death of their mother. Despite the demands it made on her, she excelled in school and graduated first in her class of 12 at Freeport High School in 1940. Helena entered the RN program at Butterworth Hospital then World War II began. She met her future husband, Dr. James Riekse, a captain in the Army Medical Corp., at the hospital where he was doing his intern­ ship before being deployed. They married before he had to report and she went with him. Their son was bom in WA and she had to wait until he was older to join her husband in Panama. They returned to Grand Rapids and Jim began his OB/GYN practice and they added to their family four daughters. Helena volun­ teered her time as an educator, caregiver and elder in her church, and as an advocate for the rights of all people. Helena decided in her sixties to return to Aquinas College to obtain a degree. She received her B.S. degree in 1983. Then she attended Western Theological Seminary in Holland. She completed the Masters of Religious Education Degree (M.R.E.) in 1988. She spent years visiting the shut-ins and widows of her church and she advocated for more inclusion of women in the church. Besides her parents and siblings, she was predeceased by her husband of 69 years, James Riekse, Sr.; her son, James Riekse, Jr., and her son-in-law, Jack Zepp. She is sur­ vived by her four daughters, Nancy (John) Norden, Meredith Riekse, Judith Riekse Marcus, and Laurel (Fred) VanDyke. She is also survived by eight grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. She was definitely a woman ahead of her time and a lifelong learner. Those wishing to make memorial contri­ butions should consider Central Reformed Church, 10 College Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. DELTON, MI - Winnifred M. “Winnie” Haines, age 82, of Delton, passed away on Nov. 13, 2020 surrounded by her loving family. Winnie was bom on Jan. 28, 1938 in Delton, the daughter of Kenneth and Meda (Lechleitner) Spaw. She was employed by KVP for three years before going to work at Kellogg’s for 13 years. Winnie married the love of her life, Harold “Tom” Haines on July 12, 1955 in Indiana and he preceded her in death. Horses played a big role in Winnie’s life. She loved being around them and especially enjoyed breaking, riding, and driving them, a love she has passed down to her family. She also had a talent for crafts and liked to weave rugs and runners and enjoyed going to craft shows. Winnie loved living on the farm. She appreciated the work it took as well as the peace and quiet. Her warm and outgoing personality will be dearly missed by her family. Winnie is survived by her sons, Kenneth (Fran) Haines, Brent (Michelle) Haines, and Rick (Heather) Haines; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; very special friend and companion, Jim Alden; brother­ in-law, Chip (Kim) Haines; sisters-in-law, Pat Whipple and Cheryl Moore; several nieces and nephews; and her faithful dog, Ace. Winnie was also preceded in death by her parents; brother, David Spaw; and sister-in­ law, Sandy Lopez. Winnie’s family will receive friends on Thursday, Nov. 19 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Hickory Comers Bible Church where her memorial service will be conducted on Friday, Nov. 20, 2020 at 11 a.m. Pastor Jeff Worden will officiate. A graveside service will be conducted following the memorial service at Cedar Creek Cemetery at 1:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to Hickory Comers Bible Church, Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan, or the Barry County Humane Society will be appreciated. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 19, 2020 — Page 7 BflGK THE PAGES Barry County in the Spanish American War, Part IV The following is the fourth of a six-part series compiled by the late Joyce Weinbrecht and published in the Banner from mid-August to early October 1998. While Co. K of the Michigan 35th Infantry — which had more Barry County men than any other unit during the Spanish-American War — was at Camp Eaton near Brighton at the end of June 1898, Co. D of the Michigan 32nd Volunteer Infantry was waiting in steamy Camp DeSoto, near Tampa, Fla., expecting to get into the fracas in Cuba. Camp DeSoto was hot, dirty and diseaseridden, compounding the waiting game. Co. D finally received orders to move from Camp DeSoto - but not to Cuba or Puerto Rico as expected, rather to Camp Carpenter in Fernandina, Fla. However, Camp Carpenter in north Florida proved to be much more comfortable than Camp DeSoto. This camp was on higher ground and not prone to flooding with brackish water. The people living near the camp were friendly and looked after the comfort of the soldiers. After spending two months in Tampa, the men were pleased to be able to get ice water free when several residents placed ice water in barrels in front of their homes for the soldiers. In Tampa, they had to pay for ice water. The children of Fernandina played soldiers, drilling with sticks in the backyards of the town. Little boys would salute the soldiers when they met them. The ladies of the town took meals out to the camp, often on good table service, to serve to the men. The men responded by sprucing up when the ladies were about. Sanitary measures were instituted. Vendor stands were banned from the camp because stand keepers would throw their refuse behind their stands, leaving it to rot. Lemonade and sandwich peddlers were allowed to sell their wares in camp, as long as they met standards set by Gen. Carpenter. Pies were barred because they were thought to be poor for the health of the men. Amelia Beach was close by. The men would march, as a company, to the beach to relax for an hour or two. They were much better off, but still frustrated since they expected to see action, and that had not happened. And, in fact, the 32nd Michigan Volunteers never did get out of the United States. Homer C. Washburn, Co. B, 32nd Michigan Volunteer Infantry, wrote a letter to the Hastings Banner, describing Camp Carpenter: We traveled about 200 miles, through some of the best districts of Florida, found ourselves on an island about 18 miles long and two miles broad. Our camp ground is high and sandy, and the air is dry, a great contrast indeed to the low, wet ground and damp, murky atmosphere of DeSoto Park, Tampa. Then, too, there is a vast difference in the people. There, they were mostly Spaniards and Cubans, while here they are Americans. On our way here, we were treated often times with genuine hospitality. At Palatka, [Fla.], the ladies of the town had six barrels of lemonade made, and they awaited our arrival. It is needless to say that we appreciated this kindness and thoughtfulness on the part of the gentler sex of Palatka, and we will not forget the place, 1 assure you. The city of Fernandina has about 4,000 inhabitants and is about the prettiest city 1 have seen since leaving Hastings. The streets are beautifully laid out and paved, and the numerous shade trees from whose branches and limbs hang great wreaths of moss ', sometimes 10 feet in length, afford ample and refreshing shade to the weary pedestrian. The inhabitants keep barrels of ice water, setting at intervals along the streets, and labeled ‘For the soldier boys." Another evidence of their hospitality is shown by the way they carry victuals to the ‘provost guard.’ Perhaps some may not understand what is meant by provost guard, so 1 will explain. In view of the fact that there are in every assembly of this size, some who will insist upon making themselves cumbersome. The military authorities keep Privates with Co. K, 35th Michigan Volunteers, pose for a photo. More Barry County men belonged to this particular company than to any other during the SpanishAmerican War. W>o. GoevSaw i89&?^^Lm£WBBBw The men of the 32nd Michigan Volunteers Co. D are long gone. Maybe the names accompanying this photo were recorded somewhere. Several Barry County men served in the 32nd. Those in Co. D included Charles B. Mackinder, Dowling; Charles Grdavent, Cressey; and Charles J. Wooley, Lacey. armed sentinels posted among the streets so as to preserve order. The sentinels, or guards, are termed the provost guard. Today the camp seems more quiet than usual and the boys more thoughtful. The reason for this is because last night witnessed the first death in the 32nd Regiment. Private Root of Co. A., after a long illness of typhoid fever, at last succumbed and has gone to join the noble dead who have given their lives in defense of their country’s flag. His body will be followed to the train by the entire regiment where it will be sent together with the sympathy of all of his comrades to his home in Coldwater. The boys of the 32nd have nearly all given up the hope of going to the front, and at present, it looks as if we would remain here for some time, but of course, we can only go where we are ordered, and it is not our fault that we were not in Cuba long ago.” Homer C. Washburn, Co. B, 32nd Michigan Volunteer Infantry. No report about Michigan and the SpanishAmerican War would be complete without mention of the Michigan Naval Brigade. This unit was formed during 1893 as the Michigan Naval Reserve and was part of the Michigan State Militia. Armories were in Grand Rapids, Benton Harbor, Hancock, Saginaw and Detroit. Within two weeks after the Spanish War was declared, the Michigan Naval Brigade was mobilized and ordered abroad The Yosemite, a ship the U.S. Navy had acquired from Southern Pacific Co. It wasn’t really a warship. Its only armament was sacks of coal stacked at strategic places on the ship. It was armed, however, with 10 five-inch guns, six six-pounder rapid-fire weapons and two Colt machine guns. This unit was unique in that the 11 officers and 270 crewmen were about three-fourths university graduates. This Included the entire senior mechanical engineering class of the University of Michigan. By mid-May 1898, The Yosemite was docked at Hampton Roads, Va., where the crew was trained for two weeks before heading for Cuba. The ship was involved in the bombardment at Guantanamo Bay June 10. The Marines landed on the shores of the bay. This was the beginning of the invasion of Cuba. The Yosemite, with its Michigan Naval Brigade aboard, arrived off San Juan, Puerto Rico, to help blockade that harbor. However, the second blockade vessel withdrew due to mechanical problems, and The Yosemite was the only ship left to carry out the blockade. For two days, it was not disturbed, but on June 28, three enemy cruisers and a gunboat challenged. The enemy boats were defeated, and The Yosemite remained unharmed. It continued the blockade for several more weeks until after the surrender at Santiago, Cuba, July 17. The Michigan Brigade was sent home at the end of the year, but was mobilized again at the beginning of World War I, and wasn’t discontinued until after World War II. Frank D. Cole of Hastings was a bookkeeper for Uncle Sam at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. He wrote a letter home Aug. 3, 1898, describing some of his impressions and gave news of John Garrison who had fought of Santiago. He wrote: Editor Banner: I promised you when 1 left Hastings to write, and 1 presume you think Uncle Sam will not let me do so. Well that is pretty near the case. If any one wants to learn to hustle, the Navy Yard at the present time is the best place he can find and will be so until all our ships are back and refitted and repaired up ready to back Uncle Sam. I just came from the St. Peter’s hospital where I have been to see John Garrison. John didn’t know me at first, but after a while, it came to him who I was, and I can’t express to you how glad that fellow was to see me. He was shot July 8 through the calf of his leg, but it is all healed up, and is all right now, but he was taken down with a fever a few days ago, and he probably won’t be around now for three or four weeks. Then he tells that he is going home to stay. He has been through it all. I have seen pictures of starving Cubans where they were nothing but skin and bone. Well, John is just that way, poor fellow. But he will be all right in a little while. He says the Cubans are almost as bad as the Spaniards, for they won’t fight. They have no sand [sic], and they will stay back of our boys and search their knapsacks for things to eat, and when they are forced into battle, they will get in the bushes and fire a shot and then run. John was picked up from the field by two of the 71st New York boys and taken back A pen and ink drawing depicts the Battleship Maine before her destruction in mid-February 1898. some two or three miles and then taken in an ambulance to a division hospital, where his wound was dressed, and from there was taken in an Army wagon over one of the worst roads he had ever seen, for nine miles to shore. There, he was put on the hospital ship Olivette, which came here some few weeks ago. I was down to Cob Dock when the battleship Texas came in Sunday, and she is a fighter all right. She has a hole in her forward port bow made by a six-inch ball, which went way through her to the other side and then stopped and bounded back and exploded, See WAR, page 8 Soldier tells of injury, travel, recovery after returning home In a letter to the Banner written in early August, Frank D. Cole told of having visited fellow Hastings native John Garrison at a hospital in Brooklyn, N.Y. Cole worked in the naval yard there, and Garrison had been taken to St. Peter’s Hospital to recover after having been wounded in Santiago, Cuba. The Sept. 29, 1898, Banner told a little more about Garrison’s injury and the uncomfortable journey off the island which Cole had referenced: John Garrison, the only one of the Hastings boys in the Santiago fight who was wounded arrived home Friday noon, just in time to participate in the demonstration in honor of the soldier boys. John was a member of the 17^ U.S. regulars and was sounded on the 3r^ day of July, about two hours before the flag of truce went up that stopped hostilities. The 17^ was preparing to make a charge at the time and he had just stepped his left foot up on a bank when a Mauser bullet struck him on the side of the left leg, about two or three inches below the knee, going through the fleshy part of the calf and just missing the bone. He was taken to the Division Field Hospital where his wound was dressed and he was given as good attention as could be expected under the circumstances, when wounded men were being brought in all the time. When he was hit, he said it was not at all painful, and that the paid did not commence until after reaching the field hospital and a rag was run through wound and drawn back and forth to clean it. July 4^’ he celebrated by being drawn to Siboney in a six-mule pack wagon without springs or conveniences, along with some other wounded soldiers, the trip occupying all day. From July 4 to 8, he was in the general hospital at Siboney and on the 8^ was carried to the hospital ship Olivette, where with a lot of Rough Riders and other wounded soldiers, he was taken to Brooklyn, where they landed July 17th, a great crowed being present to witness the landing of the first wounded soldiers of the Cuban war in New York, the people fairly tearing the ambulances in pieces to get sight of the soldiers. Two days after landing, he was taken ill with typhoid fever and was dangerously ill for the greater part of the time up to Sept. 14, when he was discharged from the hospital and returned to Columbus, Ohio, to receive his discharge from the army, after a service of five years and 45 days. He arrived in this city Friday and says Hastings is the best and only place in the world and he proposes to stay here for a while, at least until he recovers the full use of his wounded limb. John was on the firing line, as most of the Hastings boys were, and came near being wounded several times and in various places. In the fight July 1, he says five holes were shot through his shirt. .. .For the fighting qualities of the negroes, he expressed great admiration and says that to them belongs the greatest honor of the war and if it had not been for the colored troops, the Rough Riders would have been all killed since the Spaniards had them in a trap and were shooting them down like rats, when the colored soldiers made their famous charge. Though very think John looks well and since arriving home, his clothes are fast getting “too tight.” Notice of Branch Merger Application Notice is hereby given that Mercantile Bank of Michigan, 310 Leonard, NW, Grand Rapids, Ml 49504 has filed an application with the FDIC to sell the Mercantile Bank Hastings Branch located at 1500 W M-43 Hwy, Hastings, Ml 49058 to Lake Trust Credit Union, 4605 S Old US Hwy 23, Brighton, Ml 48114. Any person wishing to comment on this application may file his or her comments in writing with the regional director of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation at the FDIC office, 300 S Riverside Plaza, Suite 1700, Chicago, IL 60606 not later than December 14, 2020. The nonconfidential portions of the application are on file at the appropriate FDIC office and are available for public inspection during regular business hours. Photocopies of the nonconfidential portion of the application file will be made available upon request. Published: November 12, 2020 150821 �Page 8 — Thursday, November 19, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Lake Trust planning to buy Mercantile branch office Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Mercantile Bank of Michigan branch in Hastings could soon be under new ownership. Lake Trust Credit Union, based in Brighton, has announced its intent to acquire the Mercantile Bank office at 1500 W. M-43. The credit union currently operates a branch location in Hastings at 209 N. Church St. Once the sale is completed, Lake Trust would f move all of its operations in Hastings to the M-43 location. “Lake Trust has been a part of the Hastings community for decades,” said Linda Douglas, Lake Trust’s vice president of marketing, brand strategy and innovation. “The Mercantile branch location will offer enhanced ~ convenience for our members in the area with expanded parking and accessibility.” The agreement includes the 4,300-squarefoot branch office and all associated assets, including $16 million in deposits, Douglas said. “Anyone who has an account or deposits associated with the Mercantile Bank Hastings branch will automatically become a member ' of Lake Trust Credit Union when the "transaction is completed in early 2021,” Douglas said. “The Lake Trust team will work together with Mercantile to guide Mercantile customers through the entire process to ensure a seamless, secure and transparent transition ” The Mercantile Bank branch acquisition is the first between Lake Trust and a bank. “From our perspective, credit union/bank • acquisitions and branch acquisitions are becoming more commonplace as the financial services industry continues to seek efficiencies and opportunities,” Douglas said. Lake Trust currently has 23 locations, including Hastings, serving more than 200,000 customers. It has more than $2.2 billion in assets and 30,000 fee-free automated teller machines across its shared network, Douglas said. Based in Grand Rapids, Mercantile Bank is Michigan’s third-largest bank, with 39 branches through the state and assets totaling about $4.4 billion. Dave Miller, the bank’s senior vice president of marketing, said increased use of online and mobile banking, combined with the Hastings location being isolated compared to other Mercantile branches, led to Mercantile officials being interested in the sale. “As we watch the branch network, one of the things we rely on is the ability for [branches] to work together,” Miller said. “Hastings is a little bit of a distance for us from any of our other branches. That’s what led us to finding somebody, a partner in Lake Trust, that has some other branches in Hastings and has very similar values to ours, customer service being the most important.” The nearest Mercantile Bank locations to Hastings are Lowell and Kalamazoo, Miller said. Mercantile Bank has filed an application with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, informing the agency it plans to sell the Hastings location to Lake Trust. Comments on the pending transaction may be made in writing to the regional director of the FDIC, 300 S. Riverside Plaza, Suite 1700, Chicago, IL 60606 no later than Dec. 14. Prairieville Township grants several fire department requests Luke Froncheck Staff Writer The Prairieville Township Fire Department is getting some new gear. The township board of trustees voted to spend $16,124 on several new pieces of fire department equipment. Chief Bob Pence requested the new equipment during the board’s Nov. 11 meeting. In addition to four new breathing devices, a new fire hose, and repairs to the department’s thermal imagery camera, purchases include dress uniforms for formal events. In other business, Township Supervisor Jim Jjcenses Rebecca Lee Wilson, Hastings and Shane Michael Toris, Grand Rapids. Christopher Mark Bailey, Wayland and Jessica Lynn Peets, Wayland. Roger J. Masselink, Middleville and Dana Marie Grassmid, Middleville. Stoneburner expressed appreciation to outgoing trustees Richard Van Niman and Breanna Borden for their service on the board. Stoneburner then welcomed incoming board members Ted DeVries and Mark D. Doster, who also were in attendance. In other action, the board: • Accepted the absence of Treasurer Judy Pence due to health reasons. • Heard an update from Dana Yarger, the Barry County Medical Control Authority representative. Yarger spoke about ambulance services in Prairieville Township and encouraged the township to review its ambulance service options. • Approved monthly bills of $67,702. • Heard a report from Clerk Rod Goebel, who said 74 percent of the township’s registered voters cast ballots in the November election. • Accepted the final year of the township road fund deficit elimination plan. • Raised the credit card limit for the township parks manager from $50 to $500. • Agreed to spend $1,768 on tires for a township police vehicle. ORDINANCE ADDRESSING FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT PROVISIONS OF THE STATE CONSTRUCTION CODE Community Name: Hastings Charter Township, County: Barry Ordinance number 2020-01 An ordinance to designate an enforcing agency to discharge the responsibility of the Township of Hastings Charter located in Barry County, and to designate regulated flood hazard areas under the provisions of the State Construction Code Act, Act No. 230 of the Public Acts of 1972, as amended. The Township of Hastings Charter ordains: Section 1. AGENCY DESIGNATED. Pursuant to the provisions of the state construction code, in accordance with Section 8b(6) of Act 230, of the Public Acts of 1972, as amended, the Planning and Zoning Dept, of the County of Barry, Ml is hereby designated as the enforcing agency to discharge the responsibility of the Township of Hastings Charter under Act 230, of the Public Acts of 1972, as amended, State of Michigan. The County of Barry, Ml) assumes responsibility for the administration and enforcement of said Act throughout the corporate limits of the community adopting this ordinance. Section 2. CODE APPENDIX ENFORCED. Pursuant tp the provisions of the state construction code, in accordance with Section 8b(6) of Act 230, of the Public Acts of 1972, as amended, Appendix G of the Michigan Building Code shall be enforced by the enforcing agency within the jurisdiction of the community adopting this ordinance. Section 3. DESIGNATION OF REGULATED FLOOD PRONE HAZARD AREAS. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Insurance Study (FIS) Entitled “Flood Insurance Study for Barry County All Jurisdictions” and dated May 4, 2009 and the Flood Insurance Rate Map(s) (FIRMS) panel number(s) of 26015CIND0A, 26015C0191C, 26015C0192C, 26015C0193C, 26015C0194C, 26015C0213C,260515C0214C, 26015C0215C, 26015C0306C, 26015C0307C, 26015C0326C AND 26015C0327C dated May 04, 2009 are adopted by reference for the purposes of administration of the Michigan Construction Code, and declared to be a part of Section 1612.3 of the Michigan Building Code, and to provide the content of the “Flood Hazards” section of Table R301.2(1) of the Michigan Residential Code. Section 4. REPEALS. All ordinances inconsistent with the provisions of this ordinance are hereby repealed. Section 5. PUBLICATION. This ordinance shall be effective after legal publication and in accordance with the provisions of the Act governing same. WAR, contd. from page 7 Financial FOCUS Provided by the Barry County o/'/'ices qfEdward Jones Jim Lundin Member SIPC Jeff Domenico, AANIS® 2169 W.M-43-Hwy., Suite A 450 Meadow Run Dr. Suite 100 Hastings, Mi 49058 Hastings, Mi 49058 (269) 948-8265 (269)818-0423 Ideas for Thanking Your Family It’s almost Thanks­ giving. And although 2020 may have been a difficult year for you, as it has been for many people, you can prob­ ably still find things for which you can be thankful — such as your family. How can you show your appreciation for your loved ones? Here are a few sug­ gestions: • Invest in your chil­ dren s future. If you have young children — or even grandchildren - one of the greatest gifts you can give them is the gift of education. You may want to con­ sider contributing to a higher education fund­ ing vehicle. • Be generous. Do you have older chil­ dren, just starting out in life? If so, they could well use a financial gift to help pay off stu­ dent loans, buy a car or even make a down pay­ ment on a home. You can give up to $15,000 per year, per recipi­ ent, without incurring gift taxes. Of course, you don’t have to give cash - you might want to consider present­ ing your children with shares of stock in com­ panies they like. • Review your in­ surance coverage. If you weren’t around, it would leave some gap­ ing holes - financial want to protect yourself and otherwise — in the from the devastating lives of your family costs of long-term care, members. That’s why such as an extended it’s essential you main­ nursing home stay. A tain adequate life in­ financial professional surance. Your employ­ can suggest a strategy er might offer a group to help you cope with plan, but it may not be these expenses. • Create an estate sufficient to meet your needs. There’s no mag­ plan. To leave a leg­ ic formula for deter­ acy to your family, mining the right amount you don’t have to be of coverage, so you’ll wealthy - but you do have to consider a vari­ need a comprehensive ety of factors: your age, estate plan. You’ll have spouse’s income, num­ to think through a lot ber of children and so of questions, such as: on. Also, you may want Have I named benefi­ to consider disability ciaries for all my as­ insurance — if you were sets? How much do I unable to work for a want to leave to each while, it could cause a person? Do I need to real problem for your go beyond a simple will to establish an ar­ family’s finances. • Preserve your fi­ rangement such as a nancial independence. living trust? For help When your children are in answering all these young, you take care issues, you’ll want to of them. But you cer­ work with an attorney. By making these tainly don’t want them to have to do the same moves, you can show for you — so it’s essen­ your loved ones, in tial you maintain your a tangible way, how financial independence much you value them throughout your life. - and that can help You can do this in at you keep the spirit of least a couple of ways. Thanksgiving alive all First, consider invest­ year long. ing regularly in your 401(k), IRA and other This article was writ­ retirement accounts. ten by Edward Jones The greater your re­ for use by your local sources during your re­ Edward Jones Finan­ tirement years, the less cial Advisor. you may ever need to Edward Jones, Mem­ count on your family. ber SIPC And second, you may killing one man named Blakely and wounding eight others. This was the only one killed on The Texas. The plates on the other side where the ball struck are bent out some three or four inches. She was hit near her smokestack by a 10-inch shell that went through her plates and left eight nice clean holes. As to the inside of her, she is pretty well blackened up, and in fact, all over. You can I tell whether she has an American flag or what, it is so black. They brought home a great many souvenirs from the Spanish boats. They have Vizcaya's searchlight on board, and I was down last night seeing them work. It is a very powerful light, and no wonder the torpedo boats can I get close to the ships. We went into dry dock this morning, and there were barnacles on her big as your fist. I have seen a great many ships here fitted out and sent to Cuba. The Supply and The Glacier, supply ships, were recently fitted out and loaded so heavily that when they left, they were pretty low down in the water. These two go to Manila by way of the Suez Canal. This is, that was their orders when they left here, but I doubt now whether they will or not, since Spain is crying, and we will have to give peace on the acceptance of our terms. We have demonstrated one fact to the world and that is our Navy is not to be trifled with, and I think the foreign powers will not be trying to knock chips offfrom our shoulders and shouting like a lot of pugilists any more. While we are at it, I would like to see Germany touched up a little, and I think Dewey scared them a little when he fired at The Irene [Germany had been outspoken in its determination to acquire a naval base in the Philippine Islands. Admiral Dewey reported July 7,1898, that he had chased the German cruiser out of Sudbig Bay.] It is now 4 bells, 6 o'clock, and I must close for this time. Will write you again soon. Give my best regards to all. Yours respectfully, Frank D. Cole In June 1898, the war in Cuba was in full swing. Commodore Winfield Scott Schley, under orders from Adm. [William T.] Sampson, formed a blockade of [Spanish Adm. Pascual] Cervera’s fleet in Santiago Harbor. They arrived there June 1. The Merrimac was sunk in the channel of Santiago Harbor by Lt. Richard P. Hobson to block the exit of the Spanish. This was not successful, and Hobson and his men were captured. Gen. William R. Shafter and 16,887 U.S. troops sailed from Tampa, Fla., to Santiago, Cuba, singing “There’ll be a hot time in the old town tonight.” To be continued. LEGAL NOTICES Elijah Lloyd Root, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on October 14, 2020 to Kelly Marie Root and Michael Paul Root of Hastings. Ava Grace Bykerk, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on October 28, 2020 to Heyley Renae Bykerk and Corwin Michael Lee Bykerk of Hastings. Alivia Jade Moore, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on October 28, 2020 to Jennifer Sterman and Joshua Moore of Hastings. Brynli Paige Curtis, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on October 29, 2020 to Juli Curtis and Richard Curtis of Mulliken. Addalynn Joann Anders, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on October 30, 2020 to Hailee Ann Gerber and Clayton J. Anders of Hastings. Respectfully submitted, Anita S. Mennell - Clerk Attested to by Jim Brown -r Supervisor SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Understanding survivors’ benefits Vonda Van Til Public Affairs Specialist We are here for surviving family members when a worker dies. In the event of your death, certain members of your family may be eligible for survivors’ benefits. These include widows and widowers, divorced widows and widowers, children and dependent parents. The amount of benefits your survivors receive depends on your lifetime earnings. The higher your earnings, the higher their benefits. That’s why it’s important to make sure your earnings history is correct in our records. You can do this by creating a personal My Social Security account at ssa.gov/ myaccount. A My Social Security account is secure and gives you immediate access to your earnings records, Social Security benefit estimates, and a printable Social Security Statement to see an estimate of survivor benefits we could pay your family. You also may want to visit our “Benefits Planner for Survivors” to help you better understand your and your family’s Social Security protections as you plan for your financial future at ssa.gov/planners/survivors. Visit ssa.gov or read our publication “Survivors Benefits” at ssa.gov/pubs/EN-0510084.pdf for more information. You also can help us spread the word by sharing this information with your family and friends. Vonda Van Til is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her do Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email to vonda .vantil@ssa .gov. SYNOPSIS Hastings Charter Township Regular Meeting November 10, 2020 Meeting called to order at 7:00 p.m. Six board members present, Approved all consent agenda items. Ordinance 2020-01 Floodplain Management 2021 Budget Hearing Cemetery clean up notice 2020 Budget changes Approved payment of bills Dept, reports received and put on file Motion to adjourn 7:45 pm 151140 SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD MEETING November 11, 2020 - 7:00 p.m. Regular meeting called to order and Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Spencer, James, Watson, Hawthorne, Greenfield Absent: Bellmore (excused), Walters (excused) Approved the Agenda Approved the Consent Agenda Monthly Treasurer’s Report Monthly Clerk’s Voucher/Payroll Report Reappointed Brenda Bellmore to the Planning Commission . Approved Resolution #2020-262 - Approved the Road Project Four Year Plan Township Budget Public Hearing - 2021 Budget accepted as presented Adjournment 7:25pm Respectfully submitted, Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Attested to by, Larry Watson, Supervisor NOTICE TO CREDITORS TRUST ESTATE TO ALL CREDITORS: The Settlor, Duane W. Shriber, date of birth 1-3­ 1936, who lived at 2980 S. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, Ml 49058, died 10-30-2020. There is no personal representative of the settlor’s estate to whom Letters of Administration have been issued. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the Shriber Trust, dated March 16, 2016, as amended, will be forever banned unless presented to Michael Shriber, Successor Trustee, within four months after the date of publication. Notice is further given that the Trust will thereafter be assigned and distributed to the persons entitled to it. Date: 11-16-2020 Michael Shriber, Successor Trustee 3560 East Sager Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 953-3028 151147 151255 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate File No. 20-28630-DE Estate of Alice B. Fish, Deceased. Date of birth: 06/25/1930. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Alice B. Fish, died 08/24/2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Susan Buckham, named personal representative or proposed personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court St., No. 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the named/proposed personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: Nov. 16, 2020 Blaque W. Hough (P-47697) 300 South State St., Ste. 11 Zeeland, Ml 49464 (616) 212-9336 Susan Buckham 5413 East B Ave. Richland, Ml 49083 (269)823-9179 151157 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Trust In the matter of Virdia Inise Crawford, Trust dated March 13, 2009. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Virdia Inise Crawford, born July 9, 1932, who lived at 3400 Tillotson Lake Road, Hastings, Michigan died August 29, 2020 leaving a certain trust under the name of the Virdia Inise Crawford Trust, and dated March 13, 2009, wherein the decedent was the Settlor and Sharon R. Douglas was named as the trustee serving at the time of or as a result of the decedent’s death. Creditors of the decedent and of the trust are notified that all claims against the decedent or against the trust will be forever barred unless presented to Sharon R. Douglas the named trustee at 3400 Tillotson Lake Road, Hastings, Michigan within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: November 10, 2020 Robert L. Byington 222 West Apple Street, P.O. Box 248 Hastings, Michigan 49058 269-945-9557 Sharon R. Douglas 3400 Tillotson Lake Road Hastings, Michigan 49058 269-908-0717 151074 �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 19, 2020 — Page 9 Produce donations to hospital urged in 1919 Delton Kellogg keeps middle, elementary schools open n and It™ u This Sugg* Add to Yow Enjoyment sgiving . As reported elsewhere, the core building A that housed Pennock Hospital was constructed r in 1923 and has seen many additions and P renovations. However, before that West Green Street structure took shape, the hospital functioned out of a home on West Walnut j Street. When that proved impractical, the “hospital” was moved to the Striker House t near Jefferson and Green streets. A communityf wide campaign would follow and result in the i establishment of the full-fledged hospital named in honor of major donors Eben and > Elvira Pennock. y In its earliest years, the simple care facility A relied heavily on community support - even in the form of donated produce just prior to Thanksgiving, as this piece from the Nov. 20, <.1919, Banner encouraged: Follow this suggestion and it will add to k your enjoyment of Thanksgiving In recent years, there has grown up a very fine and helpful custom in Barry County in evidence during Thanksgiving week. It is to be hoped that the observance may * become far more general and generous than , usual this year. It is desired that during that week any persons in Barry County who can do so will give to Pennock Hospital what they can spare of vegetables, fruit and canned fruit or v vegetables for the benefit of the hospital. The generous giving of large sums of L money by the business men and factories of . this city, and of such supplies as we have . mentioned by the farmers of Barry County t. these alone make it possible to maintain Pennock Hospital, whose value to this city But! Metier !»•? fe recent years there has grown up a very fine and helpful custom in Barry county in evidence ^during Thanksgiving week. i It ia to.be hoped that the observance may become far more generul and generous than iv«4y fan ’ Ti severe usual this year. this law. It is desired that during that week that any perron* in Barry eminty who can d » will ktinw give to Pethsoek Hospital what they can spare ut veyapbie?-. fruit and canned fr Ji or vw- <m» etables Tor the benefit of the hospital. . The generous giving of large sums .of money by the business men ami fMwrh of this city* and of such supplies ax we have; mention/.-;’’-h> the farmers of tuny ceuuly—these alone make jt possible to maintain Pennock Hospitals whose value to thia riiy and county have been,so fully demonstrated in recent years. This, hospital has become a mcc-shv jhore beneficent in its work, and whose urgent need* for the Iwm fit of the of this city and county was never so apparent ax now. to the people of and" Barry . Therefore let all who can do so generously remember this worthy institution in the ‘man. ner W have suggested during Thanksgiving You will enjoy Tnanksgitmg ;U! the mare if you will do this unselfish service for the imsthutmi which is so greatb^Tieeded. and Which has to have such gifts in order to.keep going, * ' •> * FREIGHT TRUCK PLUNGED ; OVER EMBANKMENT i and county have been so fully demonstrated in recent years. This hospital has become a necessity more beneficient in its work, and whose urgent need for the benefit of the people of this city and county was never so apparent as now, to the people of Hastings and Barry County. Therefore, let all who can do so generously remember this worthy institution in the manner we have suggested during Thanksgiving week. You will enjoy Thanksgiving all the more if you will do this unselfish service for the institution which is ! Banner CLASSIFIEDS - CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 Business Services ( I ' For Sale Business Services BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry wall, CASH FOR JUNK CARS: CARRON SPORT AIR Call 269-818-7854. painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements, power washing. 269-320-3890. MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom Hockey Table. $300.00 OBO. Phone 269-908-1654. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White I Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal■’ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. 'k ■ trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. For Sale Digital TV Antennas KASSON 10FT OAK Pool Table, excellent condition. $1,000.00 or OBO. 269-908­ 1654 Cell Phone Boosteis • 269.967.8241 T¥MTE» & TOWER WSTMUTMM PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: JOB OPENING: Cemetery Sexton Orangeville Township Applicants may mail or drop off resume at Orangeville Township Hall, 7350 Lindsey Rd., Plainwell, Ml 49080. To receive a copy of job description, contact Clerk Mel Risner 269 664­ 4522 or email mrisneroqvclk@mei.net Please submit resumes to the clerk by November 27th. All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national, origin, age or martial status, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. Mel Risner/Orangeville Township Clerk A ~<Tf> T? ~R /t 'S’ tylFral Vldl 1* Owner/Manageir * Traditional and Cremation Services * Pre-Planning Services • Large Parking Lot - Handicap Accessible Serving All Faiths Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted 328 s- Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 269'945-3252 • www.girrbachfuneralhome.net Family Owned and Operated o“Zr EmeXiis Serving Hastings, Barry County and Surrounding Communities for 50 years CITY OF HASTINGS REQUEST FOR BIDS 2021 TREE TRIMMING AND REMOVAL The City of Hastings, Michigan is soliciting bids for its annual tree trimming and removal. Bid proposal forms and specifications are available at 201 E State Street. The City of Hastings reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularities in the bid proposals, and to award the bid as deemed to be in the City’s best interest, price and other factors considered. Sealed bids will be received at the Office of the City Clerk/Treasurer, 201 East State Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 until 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 3, 2020 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. All bids will be clearly marked on the outside of the submittal package “Sealed Bid -- 2021 Tree Trimming and Removal”. Travis Tate Director of Public Services so greatly needed, and which has to have such gifts in order to keep going. LEGAL A JI Ci STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF KALAMAZOO NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate Estate of Preston S. Parish Date of Birth: 11/10/1919 TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Preston S. Parish, who lived at 6350 Sheffield Road, Hickory Corners, Michigan 49060, died on July 1, 2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Barbara J. Parish, Personal Representative of the Estate of Preston S. Parish within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Personal Representative: Barbara J. Parish 6350 Sheffield Road Hickory Corners, Michigan 49060 Attorney: Sydney E. Parfet Lake, Parfet & Schau, PLC 141 East Michigan Avenue, Suite 600 Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007 (269) 382-5300 ’ 151073 STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate Estate of Brian Daniel Margraf. Date of Birth: February 21, 1979. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Brian Daniel Margraf, died August 29, 2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Thomas Margraf, personal representative, or to both the probate court at Barry County Probate Court, 206 W. Court St., Ste. 302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: November 12, 2020 Mullins Elder Law, PLLC Tina M. Mullins (P60646) 123 S. Macomb St. Monroe, Ml 48161 (734) 244-5457 Thomas Margraf 6833 W. Twp. Rd. 94 New Riegel, OH 44853 (419)595-2725 151137 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Trust Trust: The James A. Fish and Alice B. Fish Revocable Living Trust, u/a/d 7-6-09 TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent, Alice B. Fish, survivor of herself and James A. Fish, who lived at 8123 Bendere Rd., Hickory Corners, Ml 49068 died 08/24/2020. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the trust will be forever barred unless presented to the Trustee, Susan Buckham, within 4 months from the date of publication of this notice. Date: Nov. 16, 2020 Blaque W. Hough (P-47697) 300 South State St., Ste. 11 Zeeland, Ml 49464 (616) 212-9336 Susan Buckham 5413 East B Ave. Richland, Ml 49083 (269) 823-9179 151156 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Trust Estate Robert E. Marutz (“Decedent”) Date of Decedent’s Birth: January 4,1930 Name of Trust: Marutz Living Trust dated May 24, 2016 NOTICE TO CREDITORS: Decedent, Robert E. Marutz, died October 12, 2020. There is no personal representative of Decedent’s estate to whom Letters of Authority have been issued. Creditors of Decedent are notified that all claims against the Decedent, Decedent’s estate, and/or Decedent’s trust(s) will be forever barred unless presented to Pamela G. Doublestein and/or Lynn J. Marutz, Trustee, within four (4) months after the date of publication of this notice. Dated: November 9, 2020 James A. Wesseling (P-40226) Wesseling & Brackmann P.C. 6439 28th Avenue Hudsonville, Michigan 49426 (616) 669-8185 Pamela G. Doublestein 2625 Harwood Lake Road Middleville, Michigan 49333 Lynn J. Marutz 424 Falcon Drive Wayland, Michigan 49348 151075 Luke Froncheck Staff Writer “I feel like a lone duck sitting out here as one of the only schools still open,” Delton Kellogg Superintendent Kyle Corlett told the Delton Kellogg Boa^d of Education during Monday’s board meeting. Delton Kellogg High School students went to remote learning Wednesday after an order from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said that all Michigan high schools had to shut down due to concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic. Corlett updated J^oard members on the district’s COVID-19} numbers and told them of his intention to kpep the elementary and middle schools open. As of Nov. 16, Corlett said the district had reported 13 cases of COVID-19: Eight students and five staff members had tested positive. “There is no evidence that kids are getting sick inside our buildings. That’s a big sigh of relief for me,” Corlett said. The number of positive cases is the total for the entire year, he said, noting that are only three or four cases currently. Board member Jim McManus later corrected Corlett’s statement about the district being a “lone duck,” saying that he likely meant to call the district “a lone wolf’ for choosing to keep students in kindergarten through eighth grade in school. Corlett agreed, adding that if too many staff or students contract COVID-19 or are quarantined from having close contact with someone who has the virus, they may consider shutting the other two buildings. Staff who are paid hourly, including paraprofessionals, can work in other district buildings that are still open while the high school is closed, he added. If hourly staff members choose not to work in another building, Corlett said, they can still be paid if they elect to use their sick leave time. In other business, the board: • Approved NEOLA policy update recommendations about cash management, cost principles and time and effort reporting. • Discussed fundraising requests, including a potential high school band trip to Hawaii in December 2021 and the creation of a website for Delton-themed merchandise to be sold. • Approved the 2019-20 financial audit, which was discussed during the October board meeting when a representative from Gabridge and Company of Grand Rapids reported that the district’s audit was clean. • Hired Kristen Mohn as assistant varsity, girls’ basketball coach and games manager. • Named high school Principal Lucas Trierweiler as the junior varsity boys’ basketball coach. • Accepted a resolution regarding the Open Meetings Act that allows board members to attend meetings via Zoom video conferencing calls. • Conducted Corlett’s yearly evaluation. Board President Kelli Martin said board members found Corlett to be “effective” with a score of 88 percent. Martin noted that, if board members been able to use student achievement data from this year, Corlett would have received a “highly effective” score. Elaine Garlock Well, here we go for another three week stretch of limitations. Surely this is necessary to halt the prevalence of the Coronavirus. Who of us had ever imagined back in February or even March that the evil effects of the virus would impact us for so many months? We managed with this limitation before so we can do it again. We have even more incentive now than in the spring since we know the deadly results of the virus. Christmas ’Round the Town has been cancelled. There have been cancellations of other events. What about our family Thanksgiving meals? Do we meet by two and threes? Already just before this we read that the 28-pound turkey is going to be a burden to the grocer since his customers are choosing the smaller birds this year or even a turkey breast. Maybe Cornish hens will be a better choice. The Grand Rapids Press with its reporter John Gonzalez had quite a list of contests for who does the best in grilling hamburgers or bratwurst or whatever. This fall’s competition was for the best doughnuts in Michigan. The winner: Jeff Meyers’ Bakery in Lake Odessa. Yes, they are great. If you can’t get to the bakery during open hours, you can always go to Carl’s Market in Lake Odessa and buy a variety of his baked goods. He has several varieties of bread in the grocery store, as well as a variety of sweet rolls. The judges regarded the cappuccino doughnut the best of the varieties. Another top-rated product was the Meyers apple fritters. One unusuarfeature of Meyers’ Bakery is that it has double doors that are open to the adjacent library. One of the features of the new library a few years ago when it doubled in size is that the common wall would use doors between the two buildings so readers could get their coffee and doughnuts, carry them into the adjacent room and then do their reading, with benefits, with chairs designed to hold coffee and sweet treats. The doors are not always open but they can easily be opened to accommodate the customers. Some libraries forbid food or drink, but the Lake Odessa Community Library invites this dual activity. JOINT NOTICE OF ORDINANCE ADOPTION TOWNSHIPS OF ORANGEVILLE, AND YANKEE SPRINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIPS OF ORANGEVILLE, AND YANKEE SPRINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following is a summary of an Ordinance which was adopted by the Township Boards of the above Townships at their respective meetings held in the Township of Orangeville on October 06, 2020, and the Township of Yankee Springs on October 08, 2020. ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP ORDINANCE NO. 1020-1 ADOPTED: OCTOBER 06, 2020 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP ORDINANCE NO. 10-01-2020 ADOPTED: OCTOBER 08, 2020 EFFECTIVE: 30 Days After Publication SECTION I AMENDMENT OF SEWAGE SYSTEM DISPOSAL ORDINANCE ARTICLE V. SECTION G. PARAGRAPH 2, REGARDING NEW CONSTRUCTION CONNECTION FEES Article V. Section G. Paragraph 2. of the Township Sewage Disposal System Ordinance is hereby amended to read as follows: “2. For new construction, the connection fees as set forth herein shall be paid in full upon-application for connection to the System.” SECT1QNII SEVERABILITY The provisions of this Ordinance are severable. SECTION III EFFECTIVE DATE/REPEAL This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after publication after adoption. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with this Ordinance are hereby repealed. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that copies of said Ordinances may be purchased or inspected at the Office of the Township Clerk of the respective Townships at the addresses set forth below during regular business hours of each municipality following the date of the within publication. Mel Risner, Clerk Township of Orangeville 7350 Lindsey Road Plainwell, Michigan 49080 269-664-4522 “ Janice C. Lippert, Clerk Township of Yankee Springs 284 N. Briggs Road Middleville, Ml 49333 269-795-9091 �Page 10 — Thursday, November 19, 2020 — The Hastings Banner SpaceX crew docks Monday to International Space Station NASA astronaut and Expedition 62 flight engineer Jessica Meir conducts cardiac ; research in the Life Sciences Glovebox in the Japanese Kibo laboratory module. (NASA photo) I The SpaceX Crew Dragon Resilience successfully docked to the International Space ; Station Monday, transporting four astronauts in the first of six certified, crew missions •NASA and SpaceX will fly as a part of the "agency’s Commercial Crew Program. , NASA TV provided live coverage through The welcoming ceremony, with NASA’s Associate Administrator for Human Exploration and Operations Kathy Lueders joining to greet the crew from the Mission Control Center at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, and JAX A President Hiroshi Yamakawa joining from the Tsukuba Space Center in Japan. The four astronauts, who are beginning The first crew rotation mission on the space station, met in a live news conference from the space station to discuss their upcoming six-month expedition, which increases the regular space station crew size from six to seven astronauts - adding to the crew time available for research - as well as their launch, rendezvous and docking. It is SpaceX’s first launch on its second Commercial Resupply Services contract with NASA, and the company will use the upgraded version of the cargo Dragon spacecraft. The Dragon spacecraft is the site for a variety of research projects, including an engineered heart tissues investigation to further understanding of cardiac function in microgravity, which would be useful for drug development and other applications related to heart conditions on Earth. A BioAsteroid experiment aims to better understand how microbes interact with and change asteroids, information that could be used for future mining on asteroids. And the effects of microgravity on heart tissue using tissue chips, in an effort to develop therapies on Earth and countermeasures for future space exploration, is being studied. HemoCue, a commercial off-the-shelf device, also will be tested as a tool to provide autonomous blood analysis toward meeting the heath care needs of crew members on future missions, including for NASA’s Artemis program to the Moon. The first privately funded module to be delivered to the space station - The Bishop Airlock - will support science experiments, satellite deployment and spacewalks. One experiment looks at how liquid metals behave in microgravity as a first step toward developing techniques that could be used fbr construction of human space habitats, as well as to repair damage from micrometeoroids or space debris. Another is studying how microgravity affects small, living masses of cells as a way to understand the effects of spaceflight on the brain. This investigation could pave the way for additional exploration of changes to Commander Mike Hopkins (rear, left) and pilot Victor Glover (right) watch their screens as the Crew Dragon Resilience approaches the International Space Station just before docking Monday. Crew-1 launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida Sunday. (NASA TV photo) neurons during spaceflight, including studies of pharmacology, disease, aging and more, according to NASA. Cargo resupply from U.S. companies ensures a national capability to deliver critical science research to the space station, significantly increasing NASA’s ability to conduct new investigations at the only laboratory in space, a news release said. The upgraded Dragon spacecraft has double the capacity for powered lockers that preserve science and research samples during transport to or from Earth. The cargo Dragon will be the second SpaceX spacecraft parked at the orbiting laboratory, following the arrival of the Crew Dragon. The space station is a convergence of science, technology, and human innovation that demonstrates new technologies and enables research not possible on Earth. NASA recently celebrated 20 years of continuous human presence aboard the orbiting laboratory, which has hosted 242 people and a variety of international and Rutland Township approves foui^year road plan Sophie Bates Staff Writer The Rutland Charter Township Board last . week approved a four-year $340,000 contract * with the Barry County Road Commission for ; the maintenance of roads within the township. The $340,000 total is divided into $85,000 for each year; Rutland Township’s portion will cover primarily material costs while the * road commission will cover equipment, ? engineering, labor, administration and * preparation, among other costs. The contract I will be renegotiated at the end of the 2024 road construction season. The road plan does not determine the use . of funds from the road millage — estimated to raise $158,814 in its first year — approved in August. Uses for road millage funds will be ’ determined by the board sometime this winter, Township Clerk Robin Hawthorne said. The four-year plan alternates between repairing, paving and sealing roads. Preserving roads through crack sealing is ; the focus for 2021 and 2023. Crack seals are three-inch-wide strip that covers road cracks, preventing moisture from seeping in and damaging the road. “Keeping the water out of the base of the road is very important, especially with the freeze cycles,” road commission Managing Director Brad Lamberg said. “As ice and water get into the crack, it freezes and expands and makes it bigger. “When we can keep the snow and ice and rain from going down into the road and freezing and thawing — that’s the main goal.” In 2021, crack seals will be added to Heath Road, West State Road, Big Pine Drive, Pine Hill Drive, Pine Knoll Drive, Pinecone Drive, Hathaway Court, Kathryn Drive, Scenic Trail and Thomapple Valley Pines No. 2. The repairs and materials are expected to total $40,879. Similarly, the township will spend an anticipated $36,500 on crack-seal repairs and associated materials in 2023. The roads to be repaired then are: Iroquois Trail, Sager Road and Woodruff Road. Because crack-seal repairs tend to be more economical, the leftover funds — an estimated $44,121 in 2021 and $41,195 in 2023 - will carry over into the following years to pay for more expensive road operations. Laying hot-mix asphalt overlay and slag seals is scheduled for 2022 and 2024. The overlay is a heated mixture of sand, stone and asphalt; when applied, it creates high-quality smooth roads. “That’s what everyone would love to have everywhere,” Lamberg said. “It’s very costly.” Hot-mix asphalt overlay will subsequently be coated with a slag seal. Slag seals are sprayed over the road — covering small hairline cracks — and help preserve the life of the overlay investment. “That repair is so expensive, and we can’t afford enough of it, but we need to do a lot more,” Lamberg said. “When we do do [hotmix asphalt overlay], we need to seal it.” In 2022, portions of Heath Road and Irving Road will receive hot-mix asphalt overlays and slag seals; West State Road also will be sprayed with a slag seal, bringing the 2022 total to $136,425. More slag seal will be added in 2024 to Green Street, Heath Road, Iroquois Trail, McCann Road, Sager Road, Tanner Lake Road and Woodruff Road, totaling $126,903. The board decided no funds will be spent on maintaining gravel roads within the Yankee Springs Recreation Area, unless they are adjacent to a residential property. The prices given were estimated based on current material costs and may become more or less expensive; the road commission will add or remove work accordingly. In other news, the board: • Reappointed Brenda Bellmore to the planning commission. • Held a public hearing for and reviewed the 2021 township budget. The budget will be voted on at the next board meeting. Did you know that you can read The Hastings Banner in an ELECTRONIC and PRINT edition? H.sbmw] WEEKLY UPDATES NEWS SPORTS COURT NEWS LEGALS MORE Hastings DANNER (269) 945-9554 www.hastingsbanner.com commercial spacecraft. remains the springboard to future human NASA officials say the space station missions to the Moon and eventually to Mars. DNR licensing issue solved in lead-up to firearm season After experiencing technical issues Saturday, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources licensing system is performing as expected. At around 9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, the licensing system began experiencing slow­ ness and timed-out transactions as some cus­ tomers tried to purchase licenses. The DNR continues to work with the system vendor, Sovereign Sportsman Solutions (S3), to deter­ mine the cause of the issues, which affected S3-supplied licensing systems in other states, too. As of Saturday afternoon, Michigan’s licensing system was successfully processing transactions as expected, and more than 45,000 hunters have purchased licenses since then. The DNR wanted to ensure the vendor’s system was selling licenses without issue for 48 hours before making this announcement. Hunters who were unable to purchase licenses or deer tags due to Saturday’s system slowdown should do so online at Michigan. gov/DNRLicenses or at a local retailer as soon as possible to comply with state law. The DNR does not have the authority to waive a license as a requirement for hunting. Successful hunters who used a homemade deer kill tag as instructed must consider their purchased, official tag to be validated and not use it to take another deer. Michigan’s firearm deer season opened statewide Sunday morning. For more infor­ mation on deer check stations, safety and other resources, visit Michigan.gov/Deer. ^Doctor Universe Mushroom rings Dr. Universe: Why do mushrooms grow in rings? We have a lot of giant ones in our yard right now. Layne, 8, Spokane Dear Layne, When you see a ring of mushrooms, it’s likely they are exploring for food under the ground. Giant mushrooms in your backyard are not animals or plants. They are part of another class of living organisms called fungi. But like you and me, they do need food to survive. That’s what I learned from my friend David Wheeler, an assistant professor at Washington State University, who knows a lot about fungi. He said the mushrooms are just one part of fungi. The other part that explores the soil for food actually lives under the soil. This part is called the mycelium and looks a bit like cobwebs or stretched-out cotton candy. Mycelium help the fungi explore different spaces and absorb nutrients from things like dead logs or decaying leaves. Wheeler said we might think about the way a mushroom ring forms, including how the mycelium spreads out, as if it were a ripple in a pond. Just as ripple starts with a raindrop or stone, a mushroom ring begins with a tiny spore. To help grow new fungi, mushrooms release spores, which are sort of like seeds. After spores are released, they float through the air, and when they land in soil, the mycelium begins to grow beneath it. It starts expanding outward from the place where the spore landed. This allows the fungi to cover a lot of ground on its hunt for food. The outer edge of the mycelium is where we see the ring of mushrooms grow up from • the soil. I learned that some mushroom rings have been around for a really long time. For instance, one mushroom ring in France has been around almost 700 years. As the fungi spread out in search of food, the ring got wider and wider. Now, the ring is almost a half mile wide. You would have to walk the length of eight football fields to get from one side to the other. Even though fungi don’t have legs, they sure know how to go the distance. A big part of that has to do with their mycelium. “Every step you take in the forest, under one foot - even one kid foot - there could be lots of cells of mycelium,” Wheeler said. Wheeler also told me that fungi sometimes compete for food. If you look at the mushroom ring in your backyard, you may notice something unusual about the grass around it. Sometimes grass inside the ring may be brown. That’s because fungi and grass both like to eat the same thing. They are both after the nutrients in the soil. But as the fungi grow, they can steal nutrients away ' faster than the grass can handle. You know, it’s great to hear you are observing nature in your own backyard. It’s a good reminder that we can find science < questions almost anywhere in this big, wide; world - even in a ring of mushrooms. Dr. Universe . Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University's resident scientist and writer at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu or visit her website, askdruniverse.com. , �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 19, 2020 — Page 11 COVID drives county back to virtual meetings Commissioner Vivian Conner reviews her meeting packet. Rebecca Pierce Editor The last in-person meeting of the year for Barry County commissioners took place Tuesday as they came to grips with the impact of COVID-19, including the fact that one of Barry County Administrator Michael Brown works through a plan with commission­ their members was hospitalized Friday with ers to ensure business gets done without in-person meetings. the virus. Commissioner Dan Parker of Middleville is at Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids, his wife, Linda, confirmed State University for access to MSU Extension programming at a cost of $122,166. The Tuesday. Both of them have COVID-19, but they assessment of $56,800 includes operating Commissioner Ben Geiger kept his mask on while speaking during the county board don’t know where they were exposed to the expenses for Extension personnel and the virus, she said. operation of the 4-H program. An additional meeting Tuesday. None of the people they have come in con­ $65,366 funds an MSU clerical person for the tact with recently have the virus, she said. local county MSUE office. And, while it was a mild respiratory prob­ • Voted to recommend approval of Agriculture Conservation Easement program 461.61 acres, of which more than 387 - 84 lem for her, it was much worse for her hus­ Equalization Director Tim Vandermark’s for consideration in the Farmland Preservation percent - is designated prime soils in Assyria band. apportionment report for 2020 to allow col­ funding cycle. Commissioner Vivian Conner and Maple Grove townships. The farm is “He is getting better slowly,” she said. lection of taxes. was the lone dissenter because she has donating $788,100 - or 71 percent of the ease­ Linda Parker, a nurse who retired in 2016, • Heard a report from Stacy Byers on the expressed disagreement with providing this ment value back to the BCCE program. The pointed out that masks may not be 100-percounty’s Conservation Easement Program. benefit to only certain property owners and total easement is $1,110,000, with federal cent effective at protecting against the spread They recommended approving the county’s denying it to others. funds amounting to $321,900 of that. of COVID-19, “but until this (pandemic) gets 2020 Farmland Preservation application for yi • Recommended approving all necessary over, you’re a lot safer to wear a mask.” James Wickham of Carlton Township to sub­ documents to close on the Larry and Vanessa On Tuesday, most of the commissioners in mit to the state of Michigan Agriculture Carpenter conservation easement deed. the Leason Sharpe Hall at the Barry Preservation Fund board and the federal According to Byers, the Carpenter farm is Community Enrichment Center wore their masks - even when speaking - during their meeting. The move to meeting remotely via Zoom is not a popular choice for commissioners, since Stacy Byers reports on the activities of connectivity in parts of the county is often a problem. But, given the circumstances, it has the county’s Conservation Easement Program. become a necessity, they agreed. “It’s the responsible thing to do,” Commissioner Ben Geiger said. “So we The board also approved a separate capital would not meet in person again for the rest of request of $333,000 to replace four buses. 2020?” “At the last meeting there was some discus­ Voigt said the impact of COVID-19 on rider­ sion about moving meetings to Zoom in light ship caused the transit operation to drop from of the COVID numbers, and looking at con­ 435 rides a day to 83, on average. “People are solidating ssome meetings during the month to understandably cautious,” Voigt said, noting limit the meeting dates, ” County Administrator that ridership tends to be for essential rides Michael Brown said. only. Brown proposed meeting remotely on Nov. “Our ridership is very low. We have approx­ 24, which would be the board’s final meeting imately eight drivers still on layoff since the in November. beginning. However, the budget is balancing. Then, he said, the board could cancel its There is CARES Act funding that we have Dec. 1 Committee of the Whole meeting and enjoyed and taken advantage of - and will move it to Dec. 8. A board of commissioners continue to do so at least until the beginning meeting could then take place on Dec. 15, of 2021... and they could cancel the Dec. 22 meeting. “We are not promoting transit services, All these meetings in December would take which is counter-intuitive. But we don’t want place remotely. to be a vehicle for spread either. And so we’re County employee awards that are tradition­ here for those essentials that people need — ally given out at the end of the year, would be medical, groceries, things like that. And we’ll postponed until the new year. ride this out with everyone else. Commissioners also would need to autho­ “In terms of routes, we have about 12 buses rize the administration to handle any bills as over the course of the day: Five that come in necessary at year’s end, which would be pre­ in the morning to start the day; we have five Next sented at a subsequent board meeting, Brown in afternoon, and two other routes, one dedi­ Time, noted. cated to Middleville and one dedicated to Ship The final meeting arrangements will be getting people home and more centralized Your considered for approval at next week’s board runs.” Authorized Luggage remote meeting, that will take place via Commissioners also: Shipping Zoom. • Voted to recommend pursuit of a grant to Outlet We make i In other business, commissioners voted to fund a feasibility study and market analysis it simple, I recommend approval of a resolution to apply exploring the possibility of a downtown Food convenient] and j for state and federal operating and capital Hall/Hub in Hastings as a Blue Zones project. stress-free. | • Agreed to schedule a public hearing on assistance for Fiscal Year 2022 and appointed the county’s transportation coordinator, Dec. 15 to alter the boundaries of the village William Voigt, to act on this application. Total of Middleville to include the property owned estimated expenses of $1,458,763 would be by NTA Development on M-37 in Thomapple covered by $255,305 in federal funding; Township • Recommended approval of the 2021 work $532,383 in state funding; and $680,820 in agreement between the county and Michigan local funds. LARGE OF small. We Ship Authorized ShipCenter' EARLY HOLIDAY DEADLINES for The Hastings Banner £ Deadline for ADS: Tuesday, Nov. 24 at Noon Deadline for NEWS: Tuesday, Nov. 24 at Noon Deadline for CLASSIFIEDS: Tuesday, Nov. 24 at 2 p.m. Papers will be on the newsstands Wednesday, Nov. 25 mm Hastings __ Devoted to the fnterests of Batty County Since IS56 DANNER Pack &ShiP 1351 N. Broadway (M-43) Hastings 269.945.910i Open MONDAY-FRIDAY 8 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. �Page 12 — Thursday, November 19, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Vikes back to full strength in regional victory The Lakewood varsity volleyball team celebrates its seventh consecutive regional championship after a 3-0 win over visiting Lansing Catholic in the Division 2 Regional Final at Lakewood High School Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I Lakewood junior outside hitter Maradith O’Gorman steps in front of senior teammate . Aubrey O’Gorman to pass a ball against Lansing Catholic in the Division 2 Regional Final at Lakewood High School Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Sports Editor Athletic director Mike Quinn handed the regional championship trophy to the Lakewood varsity volleyball team at the end Lakewood senior middle blocker Sophie Duits prepares to hit a serve in the ^Division 2 Regional Final against Lansing patholic at Lakewood High School ^Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I £ F of a quick three-set victory over Lansing Catholic Thursday in the Lakewood High School gymnasium. It was definitely one of the Vikings’ top three volleyball moments of the day. With teammates, friends and family decked out in green and white Lakewood all-state senior middle blocker Aubrey O’GormW signed her national letter of intent to join the Michigan State University women’s volley­ ball program next season in the lobby outside of the high school gym at noon. When school let out, Lakewood senior middle blocker Sophie Duits got to knock off the rust from a two-week quarantine, stepping on the court for the first time since the Vikings’ regular season finale for a quick practice session. “It was a little rough,” Duits said of the quick practice. “I’m a little more out of shape "than I expected?I’m glad' Skylar (Blimp) and Maradith (O’Gorman) were here to |et me back in it.” : Duits was the first one to touch the ball in the regional final, hitting the opening serve of the match into the net. But the net was a fine place to put her butterflies to start the postsea­ son. She finished the night with three kills, three blocks, three aces and four digs. Duits and Aubrey O’Gorman are the only two seniors on the Viking roster this fall. J “Me and Aubrey have been talking about this, and the team, for as long as we can remember,” Duits said. “We have been ball girls and played in middle school. Going all the way would make our dreams come true.” The Vikings didn’t have much trouble earn­ ing the 75 points they needed to finish off their seventh consecutive regional champion-, ship - outscoring the Cougars 25-19, 25-16; 25-10. Duits and Aubrey O’Gorman were fifth graders the last time the Lakewood pro­ gram failed to advance as far as the state quarterfinals in a postseason. That is the next step for the Lakewood ladies, whenever it may come. The Vikings had plans to travel to Tecumseh Tuesday for their Division 2 State Quarterfinal against Ann Arbor Father Gabriel Richard before the fall season as suspended due to state health department orders announced Sunday eve­ ning closed high schools to in-person learning beginning this week. > NOTICE TO BIDDERS BARRY COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION 150937 The Barry County Road Commission is offering for sale the following radio system items: (75) Motorola XPR 4000/5000 Mobile VHF Band Radios, all miscellaneous parts (1) MTR 3000 Base Radio Repeater (3) Base Units - Various Models (1) Radio Tower w/ Antenna Note: Radio tower is approximately 150’ high. Winning bidder to remove tower. (10) CP200 Motorola Hand Held Radios w/batteries and chargers Sealed proposals will be received at the office of the Barry County Road Commission, 1725 West M-43 Highway, P.O. Box 158, Hastings, Ml 49058, until 10:30 AM, Monday, November 30, 2020. Additional information may be obtained at the Road Commission Office at 269­ 945-3449 Or at our website www.barrycrc.org, please make an appointment for all viewings of the radios. NOTE: Radio system will be sold as is where is. Bidding can be done on individual items or as one unit. Due to COVID 19 the opening will be done by Zoom Meeting on November 30th at 11:00 A.M. htips://zoom.us/j/965473220942pwd^^ 6Rk5SSXNLQ21 LUT09 passcode: radio20, or by phone (301)715-8592, Meeting ID: 965 4732 2094. '' The board reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or to waive irregularities in the best interest of the Commission. ■ ■ ; Lakewood head coach Cameron Rowland admitted that getting Duits back may have been the most exciting part of the day, and his girls just went out and played from there in the regional final. “We took care of business. We kind of went through it. I just felt like we played kind of safe tonight,” Rowland said. “As long as we came in and took care of business, the way in which we did so I wasn’t worried about.” He did remind his girls on the bench at one point that their success isn’t something every­ one gets to experience. Junior outside hitter Maradith O’Gorman led the Vikings in kills with 14, digs with 15 and blocks with four. Currently, her plan is to have a signing day of her own a year from now to join her sister Aubrey at Michigan State. Aubrey had 13 kills and a team-high four aces in the win over the Cougars. Sophomore Lakewood senior outside hitter MacKenzte Wells hits an attack during her team’s Division 2 Regional Final victory over visiting Lansing Catholic Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) setter Skylar Bump put up 28 assists and had four kills, two aces and eight digs. Freshman libero Carley Piercefield added eight digs. Sophomore defensive specialist Alli Pickard added three digs. Zayda Kruger chipped in two aces. Lakewood senior middle blocker Aubrey O’Gorman hugs head coach Cameron Rowland following their team’s Division 2 Regional Final victory over Lansing Catholic at Lakewood High School Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) MHSAA working on plans to finish fall, start winter, season The Michigan High School Athletic Association suspended its Fall tournaments for girls volleyball, girls swimming & diving and football, and all winter practices and com­ petitions scheduled to begin over the next three weeks per the emergency order to pause activity announced Sunday by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) to limit the spread of COVID-19. The volleyball and swimming & diving tournaments have one week remaining, with MHSAA Finals for both previously scheduled for Nov. 21. The 11- and 8-Player Football Playoffs also are nearing their conclusions, with the 8-player postseason two games from completion and 11-player down to its final three rounds. The Lakewood varsity volleyball team was scheduled to travel to Tecumseh Tuesday eve­ ning for its Division 2 State Quarterfinal against Ann Arbor Father Gabriel Richard. The Division 1 Lower Peninsula Girls’ Swimming and Diving Finals were planned for this weekend along with the state volley­ ball semifinals and finals. Thornapple Kellogg, the last Barry County varsity football team remaining in the state playoffs, was bested Friday night at East Grand Rapids. “Our plan in all of our fall tournaments is that they are suspended. They are not can­ celled,” MHSAA Executive Director Mark Uyl said Monday. The plan was for the MHSAA to gather its board of directors, the representative council, Wednesday (Nov. 18) to plan a schedule for the completion of the fall season and the beginning of the winter sports season. All schedules will of course be tentative pending the MDHHS emergency orders not being extended beyond Dec. 9. “We will have a plan that completes those tournaments in the calendar year 2020,” Uyl said. “Certainly, for us to try and push back later in the spring, right now, we’re going to take the emergency order at its face value. We’re going to wait until Dec. 8 and hopefully our numbers get to a point where we can resume practice and competition and we’ll try and get those there fall tournaments completed by January the first.” Winter sports may have their scheduled tournaments adjusted as well, and will likely have some practice time in the lead-up to the start of competitions. Uyl said that data collected by the MHSAA from county health departments in all comers of the state showed that high school sports have not been major spreaders of CO VID-19. There was some consideration given to allowing competitions, specifically volleyball state quarterfinals, into the two days between Sunday’s announcement of the health depart­ ment’s emergency orders and when those orders were set to go into effect on Wednesday. “Given our COVID numbers and given that things right now are building to a point where state government and health department offi­ cials believe that a three-week shutdown of schools and school sports was necessary, the optics of saying ‘well, we can still go ahead and we can play Tuesday night like nothing is out of the ordinary or nothing is going on,’just I think would have been irresponsible for us to do,” Uyl said Monday. “So, that is the reason why we have decided to suspend those remain­ ing fall tournaments, effective immediately, and we’ll see where we are at here in three weeks. We really felt that the gravity of the action that is being taken, for us to have played volleyball matches all over the state tomorrow night would not have been a respon­ sible thing to do.” �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 19, 2020 — Page 13 O’Gorman finally, officially a Spartan signee Brett Bremer Sports Editor There were green and white balloons on either end of the table, a Spartan flag, block S and Spartan logo cookies, and eveiy member of the Lakewood varsity volleyball team was decked out in the green and white of Michigan State University for senior teammate Aubrey O’Gorman. There had been plenty of time to plan the celebration. O’Gorman, a three-time all-state honoree so far as a middle blocker and a 2020 Michigan Miss Volleyball Finalist, signed her National Letter of Intent to join the Michigan State University Women’s Volleyball program Thursday in the lobby outside the Lakewood High School gymnasium - hours before help­ ing lead the Vikings to a seventh consecutive regional championship. “A super monumental moment was when mom [Melissa O’Gorman] was like, you have to write your goals down,” Aubrey said. “You have to set your goals and know what you want.” As a seventh grader, she scribed a couple things on the family wipe board: “Play Big Ten volleyball.” “Go to Michigan State.” “Those things have come true. That has been super huge and super fun for us,” Aubrey said. Aubrey said “we”, a lot, while talking about her volleyball past, present and future Thursday. There are plans for her sister, Lakewood junior outside hitter Maradith O’Gorman, to have a similar signing day with the Spartans a year from now. The duo com­ mitted to playing for Michigan State in 2018. “We started playing volleyball in first and second grade,” Aubrey said. “We played Blue Power up here at the school and it was so incredible to be with our friends. When you’re young, you’re all just together and having fun. We just grew up playing volleyball. I remem­ ber in second grade, I would play with the fifth graders, and that was just a big thing for ___ ” me. At 13, Aubrey transitioned from the Blue Power club to the Far Out Volleyball club where she got to play under currently Lakewood head coach Cameron Rowland. “Even though she wasn’t very good at vol­ leyball yet, she understood, ‘okay we have to do these things in order to be successful,”’ Rowland said of Aubrey at age 13. “She has always bought into the process of knowing that we were going to get there and that group was going to be really good. They are one of the best classes we have ever had come . through Far Out. She has been instrumental in that leadership piece - where it is going to be a process.” Members of the Far Out 18 Black Team that have committed to playing volleyball from the class of 2021 also include setter Lydia Harper (Miami University), outside hitter Jenna Reitsma (Marquette University), outside hitter Anna Smith (College of in where she is going and she knows she can help Michigan State get back to as good as they were two or three years ago,” Rowland said. “The class they have coming with her is really good. The setter with her is really good and they have another middle that is a freak athlete. That class I think is going to help a lot. I think that Aubrey, personality-wise from what I know of those other kids going in, her personality will emerge as one of the leaders of it. The emotional and mental leader. She really owns that, and I think she appreciates that. I think Cathy knows that she is going to get that from her. I think her impact will be felt on and off the court similar to how it is here.” The Spartans were fifth in the Big Ten in 2016 and fourth in 2017, their highest confer­ ence finish under George’s guidance. She took over the program in 2005. The Spartans dropped to 12th a season ago with the young­ est roster in the conference. “Aubrey is an intense competitor and a strong leader,” coach George said in Wednesday’s statement. “We have had the opportunity to watch her growth and develop­ ment over the years. Aubrey’s quickness., length, and tireless work ethic will provide quality depth in the middle blocker position. We are excited about both the tangible and intangibles that Aubrey will add to our team culture and program.” Becoming physically stronger over the past Lakewood senior middle blocker Aubrey couple seasons have led to big improvements O’Gorman prepares to hit a serve during on the court for Aubrey, and Rowland said her team’s 2020 district championship continuing to get stronger with regular work­ victory in Charlotte. (File photo) outs at MSU will be key to her success on the court in the Big Ten. Charleston), middle blocker Ann aButler While there have been a lot of volleyball (University of North Florida), hitter/DS highlights over the years for Aubrey, she Emma Hall (Gannon University), and DS hopes the best is yet to come both with the Abby Boyle (Valparaiso University). The Spartans and the Lakewood Vikings. class of 2022 from the Far Out 18 Black team Lakewood is currently ranked second in the includes Maradith O’Gorman as well as state in Division 2 and hopes to face Tecumseh Grand Rapids Christian outside hitter Evie in the Division 2 State Quarterfinals if and Doezema, who is also committed to Michigan when the season resumes following its current State. stoppage due to Michigan Department of “I think also Far Out has taught me how to Health and Human Services orders. be a good teammate, how to push your team­ Lakewood is chasing its second state vol­ mates and work for your teammates is a huge leyball championship. Aubrey and the Vikings thing Far Out has taught me,” Aubrey said. finished second in Class B her freshmen sea­ “In that same sense, giving back back and son (2017) and second in Division 2 in the fall working to help the younger kids and help the of 2019. Aubrey’s sophomore year the Vikings Lakewood senior Aubrey O’Gorman signs her National Letter of Intent to join the other middles. Those things are a huge part of Michigan State University Women’s Volleyball program outside the Lakewood High fell in the Division 2 State Semifinals. The the culture that I have also seen at Michigan School gymnasium Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) last six teams to defeat the Vikings in the state State. I know the seniors are going to help me tournament either won, or went on to win, tlie state championship. and be there for me.” She had good seniors help her grow at Aubrey is a three-time MI VC A Team Lakewood over the years, with special praise This Spartan recruiting class also includes state to come to East Lansing. The combina­ Academic All-State honoree as well. She is for Kayla Sauers who was a member of the Dearborn Mercy setter Julia Bishop, East tion of skill, experience and athleticism will the daughter of Melissa and Shawn O’Gorman. s Lansing libero. Grace Danziger and serve MSU well throughout their collegiate „—Aubrey is thefourth 44CAA Divisional class of 2018 at L^wood and careers, and we’re excited to see them contin- volleyball player to emerge from the play at Cornerstone Universify. Coopersville middle blocker Abby Olin. Lakewood program joining a list that includes “Kayla Sauers was such a giver. She was “The 2021 freshman class will be strong, ue to grow and develop.” always talking to me after practice, after a and it will complement our returning roster in Rowland thinks Aubrey can be an emotion­ Jesse Buche (George Washington, 2004), hard practice she was always the first one every category,” Michigan State University al and mental leader for the Spartans like she Jennifer Mitchell (Central Michigan, 1997) there to council me and be like you know head coach Cathy George said in a statement has been for the Vikings, something Aubrey and Heather Mitchell (Michigan State, 1995). you’re doing great. You’re still in it,” Aubrey Wednesday. “With three of four of our new­ feels like really kicked into high gear as a said while listing a string of other impactful comers being finalists for Miss Volleyball, we senior this fall. former Lakewood teammates as well. feel like we got some of the best talent in the “She committed early and she is confident Carpenter makes Wayne State choice official Brett Bremer Sports Editor It has been nearly a year since Keilyn Carpenter came to her decision. It has been quite a year since then. Maple Valley ’s senior all-state outside hit­ ter signed her National Letter of Intent to join the Wayne State University Women’s Volleyball program next season in the Maple Valley High Jr/Sr High School library Wednesday afternoon with her parents, team­ mates, friends and coaches there with her. Carpenter closes her four-year varsity vol­ leyball career at Maple Valley, where she played for her mother head coach Sarah Carpenter, with 2,200 kills. She might have been able to add another hundred or two kills if it hadn’t been for the pandemic shortened senior campaign. “I got there and I kind of just knew,” Keilyn said of her visit to Wayne State University a year ago. “I was just excited there. I wanted to come back. People say, ‘when you know you know.’ You really do. You know. It was excit­ ing. “I didn’t decide right away. I took time [after an early November visit]. It was like Thanksgiving and I was like yeah, this is what I want to do, and called them.” She plans to study psychology, possibly sports psychology, and to work hard to become a better volleyball player. Taking the court with the Warriors will be one of the first times in a while where she isn’t the focus of the attack - at least not right away. “I think it will be a transition. I have that experience a little bit in club ball where I am not the main option. I think I like that. There is a different intensity that comes with that. I don’t get to go easy necessarily, because when I do have the ball I have to put that away. This year especially, there are games where I have 30 kills and 18 of them are just tips and roll shots where I just outsmart them. It will be a transition, but I think it will be a good transi­ tion and I am ready for it.” Keilyn has played club ball for the Attack Volleyball Club in Lansing over the years, and recently earned a spot on the Far Out 18 Gold team for the upcoming season in an attempt to prep a little more for the collegiate level. Sarah Carpenter knows her daughter isn’t afraid of hard work. “Starting in seventh grade she was in the weight room three mornings a week,” Sarah said. “She never missed a summer workout. Maple Valley senior Keilyn Carpenter celebrates signing her National Letter of Intent to join the Wayne State University Women’s Volleyball program in the Maple Valley Jr/Sr High School library Wednesday, joined by her parents Bryan Carpenter and Sarah Carpenter, who is finishing off the paperwork as her daughter gives the thumbs up. (Photo by Brett Bremer) She played AAU volleyball. She played vol­ leyball nine months of the year from seventh grade on. There were no excuses. She was never late to a practice. She didn’t miss a practice. During quarantine we worked out six days a week - not because I wanted to. “She has just been that kid from day one, age nine, driven. She has a purpose and she is going to make it.” Sarah said that as a mom, the whole thing is just surreal. “She starts playing volleyball in seventh grade and you think, ‘she’s all right,” Sarah said. Then Keilyn got the chance to take part in a practice with the Michigan State University club team as a freshman. “It was like nine o’clock at night after our practice and she is swinging with a collegiate level setter and she is killing the ball,” Sarah said. “We look at each other and we’re like, “she better than good. This is real.” Then you kind of hold your breath and wait and see, what is the plan going to be.” Once Keilyn visited Wayne State in down­ town Detroit, that was her plan. “I just knew they had a good coach I could connect with,” Keilyn said. “I love the cam­ pus and that it has a life around it. It wasn’t just the campus. It is in downtown Detroit. There is a lot to do. There are amazing things around there.” She said she has had amazing teammates, coaches and friends around her as well that have gotten her to this point where she could play NCAA volleyball - obviously her coach/ mom. Her father, Bryan Carpenter, has been there too. He has filmed and taken photos at games, and is often behind the end line. Keilyn said he’ll often help her relax as she steps back to serve, and that he has also played a crucial role in helping keep the mom/ daughter, coach/player roles in check at home. For the first time this fall, Keilyn and Sarah felt they were in a place where they could let those lines blur. Keilyn said she wasn’t strong enough as a freshman to have “mom” there at coach with her every day. Sarah announced that she is stepping down as the head coach of the program so she can travel and watch Keilyn and the Warriors compete. “We kind of relied on each other this year with the emotions of enjoying every second, but also realizing it is coming to an end,” Keilyn said. “So, to have her to lean on as a coach and also my mom, it was cool.” Keilyn was first team all-conference in the Maple Valley senior outside hitter Keilyn Carpenter hits an attack during her team’s GLAC match-up with Lakewood in October. Carpenter finished her Lion varsity career with 2,200 kills. (File photo) Greater Lansing Activities Conference in each of her four varsity seasons. She was honor­ able mention all-state as a sophomore and earned third team all-state in Division 3 last year as she helped the Lions to a runner-up finish in the conference. She set a new career high with 35 kills in a match this season. She’ll get the chance to play on the Far Out 18 Gold team this winter with future Wayne State University teammate Ella Uganski, a senior middle blocker from Jenison. �Page 14 — Thursday, November 19, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Milanowski in on six TDs as East topples TK Brett Bremer Sports Editor Big plays by the Pioneers ended in the end zone. Most of the big plays by the Trojans only got them part way there. East Grand Rapids 27-7 in the second half to score a 41-17 victory in the Division 3 District Final at Memorial Field on the shores of Reeds Lake in East Grand Rapids Friday night. “We’re not going to bust a ton of super big plays we got some good kick returns from Alex [Bonnema]. We had some long runs. We had two long passes, which were awesome. We needed to finish at halftime and we didn’t finish at halftime,” Thornapple Kellogg head coach Jeff Dock said. “With these guys, with Thornapple Kellogg senior linebacker Jake DeJong takes his helmet off to the East Grand Rapids Pioneers at the end of the Pioneers’ 41-17 win over the visiting Trojans in their Division 3 District Final Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Thornapple Kellogg senior running back Mitchell Middleton runs over East Grand Rapids5 Jackson Mitchell on a carry during the first quarter of their Division 4 District Final at Memorial Field in East Grand Rapids Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED ZONING TEXT AMENDMENTS AT DECEMBER 2, 2020 MEETING TO: THE RESIDENTSAND PROPERTY OWNERS OFTHE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF RUTLAND, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ALL OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE the Rutland Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing at its regular meeting on December 2, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. at the Rutland Charter Township Hall located at 2461 Heath Road, within the Charter Township of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan. The items to be considered at this public hearing include the following proposed amendments of the designated text section within Chapter 220 (Zoning) of the Rutland Charter Township Code of ordinances: 1. On application of Excelling Leaders, §220-2-2 (Definitions) is proposed to be amended to add a definition for the term “Rural Retreat”. 2. On application of Excelling Leaders, §220-4-3 pertaining to the enumerated special land uses in the AG/OS Agricultural/ Open Space Preservation District is proposed to be amended to add “Rural Retreat” as subsection W (and re­ letter existing subsection W to be subsection X). 3. §220-17-3 pertaining to temporary use of a recreation vehicle as a dwelling is proposed to be amended by replacing existing subsection C with new provisions relating to zoning approval for one recreation vehicle to be temporarily occupied as a dwelling on a lot in any district where single family dwelling is a designated permitted use, in circumstances where (1) the recreation vehicle is proposed to be occupied for temporary non-commercial purposes associated with recreational activities on the subject property or for personal visitation with the occupant of the permanent dwelling on the subject property, and where (2) the recreation vehicle is proposed to be temporarily occupied during construction of a permanent dwelling on the same lot; in each circumstance subject to specified terms and conditions. The Township is requesting persons attending this meeting observe such Covid-19 “social distancing” protections as may still be required by any applicable administrative order of the State of Michigan and/or by Township policy. Written comments concerning the above matters may be mailed to the Rutland Charter Township Clerk at the Rutland Charter Township Hall at any time prior to this public hearing/meeting, and may further be submitted to the Planning Commission at the public hearing/ meeting. The Rutland Charter Township Code, Master Plan, and the tentative text of the above-referenced proposed Zoning text amendment(s), may be examined by contacting the Rutland Charter Township Clerk at the Township Hall during regular business hours on regular business days maintained by the Township offices from and after the publication of this Notice and until and including the day of the hearing/meeting, and further may be examined at the hearing/meeting. The Township Planning Commission reserves the right to modify any of the proposed amendments at or following the hearing/meeting and to make its recommendations accordingly to the Township Board. Rutland Charter Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services at the meeting/hearing to individuals with disabilities, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered, upon reasonable notice to the Township. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township Clerk as designated below. Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Rutland Charter Township 2461 Heath Road Hastings, Michigan 49058 151254 (269)948-2194 _________ anyone, when we don’t have breakaway speed. It is going to be four yards, five yards at a time.” East Grand Rapids running back Nate Milanowski has breakaway speed. He answered the Trojans’ opening touchdown with a 98-yard kickoff return to tie the game at 7-7. He erased a 10-7 Trojan lead with a 73-yard touchdown run. Milanowski then added touchdown runs of 3, 57 and 31 yards in the second half while also throwing a 35-yard touchdown pass to teammate Quinn VanZee. Milanowski finished the evening responsi­ ble for all six Pioneer touchdowns. He had 14 rushes in the ballgame for 201 yards, and was his team’s leading passer in the end with that one completion. Milanowski wasn’t the only running back to throw a touchdown pass in the game. Bonnema, a senior running back for TK, con­ nected with senior wide receiver Cole Shoobridge for a 70-yard TD pass on the Trojans’ second snap of the game after the TK defense forced a Pioneer punt. Bonnema took a pitch from quarterback Reese Garbrecht running to the right and lobbed the ball up to a wide open Shoobridge who just had to wait for it to come down before he could start run­ ning to the end zone. “Coach [Danny] Thompson and I went back and forth between play one or play two,” Dock said of the decision to run the halfback pass. “I think Sunday or Monday, we just had a sense. They’re super aggressive and we knew we were going to try to take advantage of that and we probably should have thrown it again, but it is what it is.” Mitchell Middleton was 2-for-2 on extra­ point kicks for TK. He also connected on a 34-yard field goal that came at the end of a 17-play, 63-yard drive by the Trojan offense that covered the final eight minutes of the first quarter and the first two of the second. TK’s 7-0 lead at the start lasted the 15 sec­ onds it took Milanowski to return the ensuing kick-off. TK’s 10-7 lead lasted just as long as Milanowksi took the hand-off on the Pioneers first snap after the field goal 73 yards to the end zone. Bonnema twice found the seams in the Pioneer coverage and returned kickoffs into Pioneer territory, but just wasn’t able to out run the coverage in the end. The same thing happened late in the first half. The Pioneers burned time-outs in an effort to get the ball back with the Trojans offense pinned back in its own end of the field. The Trojans had a third-and-nine at their own 18-yard-line, and Garbrecht found a wide open Bonnema over the middle. Bonnema raced up the left sideline, but was eventually bumped out of bounds at the Pioneer eight-yard-line with 1:11 to go in the first half. The Trojans had to have some points there down 14-10, but a run by Middleton only gained a yard, Ryan Holmes couldn’t find any space after snagging an option pitch going to the right, and then the clock ran out after a rush by Dylan Jousma was stuffed by the Pioneer defense well short of the end zone. Each team punted on its first series of the second half, first TK and then East. East punt­ er Jack Haueisen managed to get a 55-yard punt to roll dead on the one-yard-line. TK lost a fumble on the second play as it tried to push off its own goal-line, and Milanowski scored from three yards out on the first snap for the Pioneers to push his team’s lead to double figures at 21-10. The next three TK possessions ended in a pair of fourth down interceptions by Pioneer defensive back Jeremy James and a punt as the Pioneers extended their lead. TK added the game’s final points with 2:26 to play on a seven-yard TD run by senior run­ ning back Samuel McKeown and a second Middleton extra-point. TK’s offense actually outgained the Pioneers’ 353 yards to 304. The Trojans amassed 207 rushing yards on 50 carries. Middleton closed his evening with 13 rushes for 64 yards. Bonnema had six rushes for 43 yards. Thornapple Kellogg’s Reese Garbrecht (9) makes a diving attempt to pull down East Grand Rapids running back Drew Caswell during their district final in East Grand Rapids Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Jake DeJong had a team-high 5.5 tackles for TK and Ryan Holmes added five and Carter West three. East Grand Rapids (6-3) will face Muskegon (8-1) in a Division 3 Regional Final should the state tournament get to resume after state health department orders announced Sunday closed Michigan high schools beginning Wednesday to prevent the spread of COVID­ 19 until at least Dec. 9. Muskegon scored a 47-21 win over Marquette in its District Final Saturday. TK closes the season at 5-4, having earned the program’s first playoff victory since 2004 and played in the state postseason for the sec­ ond time in three years. “I hope [the underclassmen] see the effort the seniors put in. This doesn’t happen, it just doesn’t happen without the amount of time and stuff they did in the offseason and in the weight room,” coach Dock said. “It takes a ton of effort and this senior group gave it for for years. They were a part of two playoff teams. When you have a senior group that can lead you to the playoffs twice, that’s good. That’s movement in the right direction. Hopefully, they can take away and understand that is the expectation - hard work, execution, make the playoffs.” � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-11-26.pdf 307621660a9be4e1ec94e6166c4967ad PDF Text Text Covid-19 cited for school count drop 2020 Fall All-County teams announced See Stories on Page 9 See Stories on Pages 10 & 11 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 ==• 1070490102590501928049058113421 VOLUME 167, No. 47 ~ ’ ANNER1 ‘ Thursday?2020 ' ........ ’ PRICE $1.00 Middleville village president dies unexpectedly Greg Chandler Staff Writer Family. Community. Veterans. Those mattered most to Charles Thomas Pullen. Of course, no one in Middleville called him “Charles.” To everyone he met, he was “Charlie.” Pullen, who served 18 years on the Middleville Village Council, the last 11 years as village president, died Friday night at Spectrum Health Pennock Hospital of complications from the COVID-19 virus. He was 71. Pullen had just run unopposed for another two-year term as village president in the election earlier this month. A moment of silence in Pullen’s memory was observed at the beginning of Tuesday’s Middleville Village Council meeting and Monday night’s Hastings City Council meeting. Barry County Commissioners unanimously adopted a resolution Tuesday to honor him. A public memorial service has been planned for Saturday, Dec. 5. at 1 p.m. at the Sesquiccntennial Pavilion, across East Main Street from the village hall. Village Manager Patricia Rayl said. “He had tons of stories that he loved to share about the town,” Rayl said. “He really was dedicated to making Middleville constantly thriving and a great community.” Pullen was hospitalized Nov. 11 - Veterans As the Barry County Commission on Aging Senior Citizen of the Year. Charlie Pullen rides in the 2018 Summerfest Parade. Active in the village of Middleville, Pullen served for the past 11 years as its president. Day - his daughter, Amanda Pullen, said in a telephone interview Monday. “He wasn’t feeling good on Tuesday, and Mom said. ‘You really ought to go in (to the hospital]’ and he said ‘no, no.”’ said his daughter, who serves on the village’s planning commission. “He woke up Wednesday morning and said. ‘Yeah, maybe I ought to go in.’ “There’s two tvpcs of COVID going around, the pulmonary kind and a pneumonia type. He had pneumcam ." Pullen’s condition worsened last week. Health officials prepare for COVID vaccme Taylor Owens Staff Writer Vaccinations for COVID-19 may begin as soon as next month, and local officials are preparing for an eventual rollout. "Barry-Eaton District Health Department is planning for the instance that a vaccine is released in the coming weeks," department official Sarah Suma said Monday. “First doses of the vaccine are likely to be distribut­ ed through hospitals and go to healthcare workers working directly with individuals with COVID-19.” BEDHD will be following all guidelines set forth by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services in terms of vaccine access priority for high risk and general pop­ ulations, Suma said. Health department officials anticipate receiving the vaccines made by Pfizer and Modema first. Both companies report their vaccines have an effectiveness of around 95 percent. Suma said the vaccines have different stor­ age requirements so the department is plan­ ning for that challenge. “The Pfizer vaccine must be kept quite cold using equipment BEDHD will not have on site, and we will be working with state part- ICU staff ‘has never taken care of this many very sick patients at the same time,' Spectrum Health H/est president says. ------- —---------------- 37'y, --------- ■ ners to store it," she added. In a virtual press conference last Thursday, Spectrum Health West Michigan President Darryl Elmouchi said the health network has internal teams preparing to receive and admin­ ister the vaccines. “There is light at the end of the tunnel," Elmouchi said. But. in the meantime, COVID-19 cases continue to proliferate through the stale and local community. As of Monday morning, Barry County had 301 active cases, bringing the total number of cases to 1.699. There also were 110 probable cases. Twelve deaths of Barry County resi­ dents have been reported since the start of the pandemic, including two in the past week. Eaton County had 438 active cases Monday, for a total of 2532. Five more deaths were reported since last week, bringing the total number of deaths due to this coronavirus to 29. Eaton County had 156 probable cases. According to Bridge Magazine. Barry County had a 15.8-percent positive test rate over the past seven days, just down from the 16.5-percent of the prior seven days. On Friday, Michigan broke a new record for the most cases reported in a single day 9,779. On Saturday, Michigan reached 300,000 total cases. Fifteen days before that, the state had marked 200,(MX) cases. More than 4,000 Michigan residents were hospitalized with COVID-19 as of Monday, another record for the state. lltomapple Manor had 10 staff members in quarantine Tuesday, after they either tested positive or showed symptoms. Administrator Don Haney said the facility is testing its staff and residents twice a week, and results are taking between two and three days to come See CO VID, page 3 and Thursday. he asked to be moved into Pennock s comfort care section. Amanda Pullen said. “He told the doctors ... he was done. He was just so tired,” she said. “He didn't want to fight anymore." Amanda Pullen and her sister. Katie Thompson, were able to visit their father for a couple ol hours Friday. No more than two v isitors were allowed to see him al a time, and their brother and mother agreed that the sisters should go, Amanda Pullen said. “Before we left, he said, ‘Til see you girls in lite morning.’ ’* she said “We got a call about 9 or so at night, and they said he passed. It threw us all for a loop.” In an email forwarded by her sister, Thompson spoke of her father’s engaging personality. .' “There wasn’t a stranger he didn’t meet that didn’t walk away a friend, especially if they were a veteran." Thompson wrote. “He had a very kind and giving heart. He loved hunting and fishing." Longtime council trustee and former village treasurer Ed Schellinger agreed. “I don't think Charlie ever met somebody that he didn’t like." he said. “He was always so jovial. He liked working with everyone, serving for everyone, not only in regards to the village, but also veterans affairs." Barn County Commissioner Ben Geiger, R-Nashville, said. “Whenever you’d see Charlie Pullen, you couldn’t help but smile and feel the happiness of seeing an old friend. No matter what you were going through, no matter the challenge you’d be facing, everything will be OK because your friend Charlie is here. • See PULLEN, page 3 Countywide lighting contest underway Sophie Bates Staff Writer The Barr) County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance is bringing socially-distanced holiday cheer to the community with its first-ever Battle of the Bulbs competition. The countywide competition invites all Barry County residents and businesses to adorn their facades in holiday decorations, take a photo or video and email it to alcshia^ mibany.com; submissions are due Friday. Dec. 11. On Monday, Dec. 14. all photos or videos will be posted to the Chamber’s Facebook page where the public will vote by “liking” the post of their favorite businesses and resi­ dences. Whichever posts receive the most likes by Monday, Dec. 21, will win the 2020 Battle of the Bulbs. “The holiday season is quickly approach­ ing, and we are looking forward to seeing some festive homes and businesses through­ out every neighborhood within Barry County.” a Chamber of Commerce press release states. "Let’s come together as a com­ munity and spread some holiday cheer in a safe and fun way.” Winners — both residential and business — will receive awards. The first-place business will receive a tro­ phy to display, and the top three residential competitors will receive Barry Bucks, certif­ icates treated as cash at participating local businesses, such as the Walldorff Brewpub and Bistro. Barlow Florist, Bob’s Gun & Tackle. Mexican Connexion and more. The residential winner will receive $250 Barry Bucks, $150 for second place and $75 for third place. "The event is being sponsored by Dewey's Auto Body, who is notorious for their light display; but don’t worry, you don’t have to compete with them — as the .sponsor, they are not eligible to win.” chamber Executive Director and President Jennifer Heinzman said. "We thought that, because it was such a rough year, we would do something to bring some cheer to our community, while keeping people socially distanced.” Remenap resigns, Goebel to step up as interim superintendent Sophie Bates meeting, several letters from community residents were read regarding Rcmenap’s decision. “In less than two years, you are departing, as I said. you weren’t my first choice (for superintendent], and I’m not sorry to see you leave. I’m only sorry for the amount of time and faith that our teachers, staff board and community put into you. I’m only sorry for the strain our board, teachers and staff will endure to handle your departure during an already difficult time." wrote Sarah Carroll, a Hastings parent and 1994 graduate. “Your lack of empathy, commitment and integrity only have me saying, ’good riddance.’ ’’ “By leaving ... Mr. Remenap missed out on forming personal relationship with nearly 2,b(X) amazing and unique students who make up Hastings Area Schools. He missed out on investing in the dedicated, hardworking, passionate, creative teachers of our district, He missed out on keeping promises to the selfless, caring, invested administrators he supervised” wrote Melissa Patton. \ye have a committed school board, amazing educators and school personnel and dedicated patents. We send off Mr. Remenap with best wishes for TK, knowing it is always a greaj Staff Writer At Monday’s meeting of the Hastings Board of Education, Superintendent Dan Remenap officially resigned, and the board announced Matt Goebel. Hastings’ assistant superintendent of student achievement wdl serve as the interim superintendent until June 30 2021 Remenap will leave Hastings at the end of the year to serve as superintendent of Tbornapple Kellogg Schools. In the nteanUme he said he will be working with Goebel to complete a smooth transition. “It is with very mixed emotions that 1 write a ve^‘ difficult one for me, and this is nothing It is not 1* ’ ' j with whom I Has mgs, and I love me P I SaX0I1 work with every day. jnu 1 ‘ " ....... • . evoked expressions Remenap s resignatto in |he disappointment, anger >■ community. .,linmcnc portion of the During die public conn The Hastings Board of Education gathers fOr an Outslde mating t0 determ. . Dan Remenap has been chosen to take the superinXnt po*«°n at a™ '° f„rumrd now that Superintendent See RESIGNS, page 2, �Page 2 — Thursday. Novemtxw 26. 2020 — Ib#» Hastmcr Banm*' RESIGNS, continued from page1 day to be a Saxon.*' Remenap acknowledged the difficult position he has put (he district in and apologized. “The people who wrote letters have the ‘ right to be angry," Remenap said. "I'm leaving with nothing but good things to say about . Hastings." Board of Education President I Haywood said he was disappointed Rcmenap's departure but hopes the) wi : work together in the future. . "Wc wish ynu all the best and will l°° . forward to collaborating with you °'er ** Board Trustee Mike Nickles addresses board president Luke Haywood, vouching jfor Matt Goebel’s qualifications for an interim superintendent. rK."IIu»«‘Xxl M"‘l . |he board appointed L£7X interim ^perintenctent Goebel h rvlt.wcel for the positron li,x:'x; ; !he»t H<>ucm-lxwtl previous!? )a.s>cd a desire for an in-hou.se menilKT* <•*!’’’'• ll)e ins and ouJs of |K)W intermi " ><’ func(jnning during the pandemic. board unanhnoudv approved Goebel’s .Jointnieni. citing many letters from district emnloyees and community members •ncluding a ,etler ,nMn al1 rhe ;K,ministraton» and directors within the district recommending Goebel for the position. •i’m just honored to Iw given this opportunity- h’s been a dream of mine for quite some time, and I’m just humbled by the support that was communicated to the board from the administration, the staff and the community,*’ Goebel said. "I’m going to do everything in my power and work my tail off for us, especially during this hard time, and in transition, and make this year the best year that wc can have." Some members of the board expressed excitement at Goebel’s appointment. "I appreciate Matt stepping up.** Trustee Rob Pohl said. “This is a challenging time. I think I’m speaking for myself but I think, speaking for everyone, wc have all the confidence in the world that you’re up to it.” "You’re in fantastic hands. Matt is fantastic.” Remenap said. “It’s going to be a great transition and he’s going to do a great job.’* Goebel and Remenap noted, given the aggressive spread of COVID-19 cases in Barry County, they are considering keeping die district online until Jan. 15.2021. A letter signed by Goebel as interim superintendent was sent to families Tuesday to confirm that extension5 and notify families that classes will be taught,online until Jan. 15. While several board members expressed their dislike for online learning, they agreed that consistency for students and teachers is Jennifer E Eastm an voices sayino aS hhp heloed DanPpr°Va °f Goebel for interim superintendent, position who 6n knoW,eC^ . started the °ap transition into ,he superintendent to be so cm 0 ^emenap hp :s knowlprin a,most helped the transition for Dan to he so smooth because he is knowledgeable, and that’s the person for us." 1 more or less dislike the virtual for Stability. I think it s probably the right Jn less than two years, you ^e departing, as I said, you weren't my first £ the m SUperin,endend faRh hatT '° see y°“ leave I’m ojsorry nut in?A. 0Unl of ,ifne ~ nHho CLachers, staff board and community onL n °/°c'1 m on,y 5°rry 2 lo.s ain our board, teachers and staff will emoafh? handle y0UIdnrt1ntMrih/Unn? h" already dil,icul1 ,ime- Your ,ack of empathy, “mmitment and integrity only have me saying, 'good riddance.'" Sarah Carroll, Hastings parent and 1994 HHS graduate important. Rather than O1,ne back to scl’<>ol and have to return to virtual learning shortly thereafter, they opted virtual. “I think we prefer in-p^^on- bul ,ast time we went virtual, they just gel adjusted at that two-w eek mark and then they g° hack to face- effective Dec. 23 to-face, and they readjust to the coursework and the homework,” board Secretary Valerie Slaughter said. "And then they are thrown back into virtual and now they have to readjust again. “So for stability’s .sake, I agree. As much as call.” . in other action, the board: . Accepted three donations: a 51.(XX) anonymous donation to out rcas en) Elementary; a S5(X) anonymous donation to Northeastern Elementary; and a donation from the Hastings Education Enrichment Foundation to support student programs and activities. . • Approved upgrades for HVAC controls in Star Elementary' and the high school for $95,441. • Approved infrastructure upgrades to the fieldhouse totaling $5,980. Contract doesn’t penalize superintendent for early departure district has no financial responsibility to compensate him for any time remaining on Staff Writer The departure of Hastings Area Schools his contract. That district’s financial responsibility ends {Superintendent Dan Remenap is not a breach of contract, Hastings Board of Education when a formal resignation letter is submitted by an outgoing superintendent, Haywood President Luke Haywood said Monday. ' “Superintendent contracts are written to said. Remenap informed board members of his protect the superintendent,” Haywood said. ’ As part of the contract. Haywood said. planned last day. Dec. 23. in a resignation Remenap had the opportunity to walk away at letter accepted by board members Monday evening. any time. Once the board accepted the resignation, Remenap likely will begin his new job as superintendent of Thomapple Kellogg district officials were then free to name an Schools in December, ending his tenure in interim superintendent. Hastings. Board members formally approved I He was hired by the Hastings board of Hastings Assistant Superintendent Mau education in the spring of 2019, when he Goebel as interim superintendent immediately 'accepted a two-year contract with the district. after accepting Rcmenap’s resignation letter. Remenap will exit the district 19 months into Friday, the board of education had met bis first superintendent contract. But the outside Hastings High School for a special ’ ' Luke Frondieck meeting to discuss potential replacements for they needed to discuss a plan and meet in board members was to give Goebel until Remenap. person, so they had to meet outdoors to March and then evaluate his performance. Board members unanimously agreed that comply with current Michigan Department of "This will give us flexibility." Hay wood Goebel was the obvious choice to fill the Health and Human Sen ices’ pandemic orders. said. position in the interim, and possibly long- Notice of the public meeting was posted on In March, Haywood said board members term. the district website. would decide whether to offer Goebel a long­ The primary reason f°r <he meeting, By approving Goebel. Haywood said it term superintendent contract or begin a search Haywood said, was to give board members gave the interim superintendent time to for other superintendent candidates. ample time to discuss their options. It just so transition into the role with the help of the Either way. Goebel will close out the 2020­ happened that all the numbers had the same current superintendent as Remenap finishes 21 school year as the superintendent of thought: Give Goebel ishot. out the last month of his contract. Hastings Area Schools. "We didn’t know iM everyone was going Because Goebel is already under contract "This js his working interview,” Haywood to agree on the samr'eandidate,” Haywood with the district, Haywood said additional said. “If he’s happy and we’re happy, we’ll said. »//■--, • ■ negotiations were not necessary . forgo a search.’’, . . "We were justify ing to work through the “Part of Matt’s contract is we have the Haywood added that, after conducting a whole interim price ” he said. "Wc wanted to opportunity to assign him to any duty we see superintendent search less than two years ago. keep the train nraded on the right track and fit,” Haywood said. "Wc will give him he wasn’t fully convinced that looking outside get time to diseflss amongst ourselves." additional responsibilities and see how he the district would be the best option In fact, llayivood said he and other board does.” members only decided Thursday morning that During Friday’s meeting, the consensus of Barry County commissioners honor Middleville^s Gtartes Pullen Rebecca Pierce Editor Middleville Village President Charles Pullen, who died Friday from complica­ tions due to COVID-19. was honored by the Barry County Board of Commissioners Tuesday. ’I’he commissioners spoke of Pullen y»v-..- . ~--------- 7--------------- ■—--------- J »■Rf ■ IL.------ Tfondly, calling him a quintessential “ser­ vant" who was known for his calm, reassuring presence and personal Tucsday’s session via Zoom with the James Wickham of Carlton Township to exception of Dan Parker of Middleville, submit to the state of Michigan warmth. “I wish we had 10 more of him.” who has COVID-19 and is at Spectrum Agriculture Preservation Fund board and Chairwoman Heather Wing said. "Rest Health Butterworth Hospital in Grand the federal Agriculture Conservation Rapids. in peace. Mr. Pullen.” Easement program for consideration in Parker’s wife, Linda, said Tuesday the Farmland Preservation funding The board returned to a remote mode of meeting Tuesday for its final session that her husband is “progressing slowly." cycle. Commissioner Vivian Conner, In other business, commissioners who disagreed with providing this bene­ in November. approved a resolution to apply for state fit to only certain property owners and In view of the aggressive spread of CO VID-19 across lI,e county, commis­ and federal operating and capital assis­ denying it to others, cast the lone "no” sioners agreed to consolidate the rest of tance for fiscal year 2022 and appointed vole. their meetings in 2020 - and all those the county’s transportation coordinator, • Approved all necessary documents se«iM„c take place remotely. remotely, via William Voigt, to act on this application. to close on the l.arry and Vanessa sessions will t:ike Total estimated expenses of Carpenter conservation easement deed, Zoom. As a result- their Committee ol the $1.458.763 would be covered by dtan M7 fann' °f Whidl morc Whole meeting- originally planned for $255305 in federal funding; $532,383 than 387 - 84 percent - is designated in state funding; and $680,820 in local prune sotls m Assyria and Maple (irove Dec. 1. will take place on Dec. 8 funds. townships, is donating $788,100 - or 71 Zoom. , , . . 'I’he board also approved a separate percent olI the easement value - back to Then the regular board ot conunissione", capital request of $333 .(XX) to replace the Barry County Conservation Easement program. The tnr-,1 ,r-»cni<.ni I5.remo<el> aswcll'ini,en ,heD“' “ four buses. • Approved the county’s 2020 Si inrnnn . / casement is meeting will be cattalcd. , . in^oi32l^?of^ funds “lAll wcre Present for Farmland Preservation application for “I wish we had 10 more of him. Rest in peace, Mr. Pullen.” Chairwoman Heather Wing Recreational marijuana busines growing in Baltimore Township •j-aylor Owens .. I,Staff Writer h. . Township currently has a him1’c grow ojjerations, one ■ tee m^J^r. *nd recently Prtivisionin application for a processing Vtn.!er . ijustec Gerard Ypma said ownslup ,nlcrs turn the harvested • ■epuKcsun.- ^.hle products, such tn"■anjuana ,,llxhLs Since the township recently received eifie purpose v tl,.. application, •mislu-iitinn. the the prospect nrosrv»i’t of a pro­ and iPl nm thc Plans' to use" th? "3 said the cessing center has a long way to go, he road.epairs md MP W noted. 'Hie applicant must pursue a state t<> asoid ask t ^thT! ,‘,rCd^;,rt’ licensing proems, which Ypnva said is millage Ci.rn.Jo ? lh ’or a extensive. Bahitnor ' 7’'> >" So far. Ballimore Township has l«>. for t V n ,hC lib'"r> received about $30,000 to $35.(XX) in aPproved In f i nil^s- was just licensing applications and fees, Ypma -‘al ekc;,o ;r!?h,pv',K-rsi»gensaid. 2024 ,c >ears 2,)21 through The funding can only Ik used for Spe. �The Hastings Banner — Thursday,. November 26. 2020 — Pago 3 POLLEN, continued from page 1 wmmuniiv h «' ^^iblishmem ,lC«n Pi!ayed “ ,cadin& n,k »n lhe Middleville in° thC VelcraiK memorial in closX wih >CarS ag0’ and hc workcd countv v ? arca,Vclerans as chairman of (he TniSl Fund‘ said Strick vcteJn ’ P^.grarn director for the local au n? arnUFS OfKce’ which is ^der the -IuSi°f Rarry Coun*y United Way. I Me] was working with Tammy mngton (Commission on Aging executive doctor] to establish a ‘No Member Dies one program here in Barry Count)' and utincly spoke at their events," Jans* ns wrote m an email. "When a family member or veteran was grieving and needed assistance in passing, Charlie was the veteran I called upon to help with that." Pullen also volunteered regularly at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans, often being the last person a veteran would see before dying. "Area veterans homes and hospitals would call Charlie when a veteran with no family Was near the end of his life, and Charlie would go and sit with that person until they passed," former Thomapple Township Supervisor Mike Bremer said. “He lived a life of devotion to his fellow veterans." Jerry Welch, a military veteran from Middleville, worked closely with Pullen on the veterans memorial. He said Pullen was "one of the most humble people I ever met." "Charlie brought so many new’ people to the veterans memorial and provided a sound relationship with the village," Welch wrote in an email. "Charlie became an instrumental part of the whole team in raising the (more than] S 100,000 for the building of the memorial. He brought in four honor guards from local American Legion and VFW posts for the dedication; little did I know then w hat a great relationship we would bond over the years and the events we would attend together.’ "It was always about the memorial or veterans," Welch said. "Charlie always became emotional about his work with the veterans hospice program at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans.’ Pullen began volunteering at the veterans home in 2015 and did more than 60 hours of volunteer work there, sitting with veterans in their final hours, Deanna Reames, volunteer services coordinator at the veterans home, said. Harry County Botirrf of Comml.Mktoncrt Revolution *20 25 RESOLUTION TO HONOR CHARLES "CHARLIE" PULLEN FOR HIS COMMITMENT, DEDICATION AND SERVICE TO BARRY COUNTY AND BARRY COUNTY VETERANS AS A BARRY COUNTY VETERAN AFFAIRS COMMISSION MEMBER Charlie Pullen speaks at a Patriot Day event in Middleville, David J. Tossava, Mayor City of Hastings COVID, continued from page 1 P°One<resident has recently tested positive, although Haney said the resident was asymp­ tomatic and a later rapid test came back neg­ ative, so it may have been a false positive test re „!*• u said he believes most of the staff ca havelen from peopie catching the Xs in ‘he community, instead of at severe, he satd^ cascs ,hiS fa" haVC bCen abk. to nl0vc wlu e .. f.|| those positions. Haney said staff around to icXrly certified nursfinding new staff. P difficuIl. while ing assistants. s(aff duc ,() Thomapple M.' |jke 0|her year. nations and ^X'n, applying for the Haney said pc0Plu vacant jobs. 10 ha)l accepting new The facility "a said they have residents. »I,hoU^ of the residents they enough staff'« wkeCaW have. h i o staff members who are In addition to the H;llli;ysilidThornapple currently i» qui;riU ’'|, ’or eight staff members Manor has had ^,cs|il)t, positive a number return to work* of weeks ago. poJicc currently tas wo 'The Hastings CW k ultcr they tested itive, although *l } < WHEREAS: Charles ’’Charlie1* Pullen served his Country and community honorably as a SP4 E-4 tn the United States Army from 1969-1971; and .1 i WHEREAS: Charlie was very passionate about service to other veterans, volunteering at the Grand Rapids Veterans Home, "No Member Dies Alone’ program, where he provided companionship and assistance to veterans entering the final stages of life; and ; WHEREAS: Charlie was appointed to the Barry Countv Veteran Affairs Commission where he served for eight years, 2013 through 2020; and { I Bom Aug. 25,1949, he grew up on a fami in Caledonia, the son of Albert and Mildred Pullen. He graduated from Caledonia High School in 1967. Not long after, he was drafted into the U.S. Army. Pullen was stationed as a cook at bases in Virginia and Arizona during his military service, but was never sent to Vietnam. His experience would give him a lifelong desire to sene fellow veterans. After his discharge from the Army, Pullen returned to West Michigan, settling in Middleville. He was hired by Bradford White Corp, to work in the company’s shipping department. He remained with the company for 43 years before his retirement, Amanda Pullen said. In 2002, Pullen was elected to the village council for the first time. He served on the council for seven years before running for village president. In 2009, he won a four-way race for the office. One of the men he defeated was then-fellow council trustee Dan Parker, who was recently elected Thornapple Township supervisor after serving on the Barry County Board of Commissioners. Parker is currently in the hospital being treated for COVID-19. Charlie Pullen w*as a fine human being, Charlie loved his family, he loved his communi­ ty, and he loved his country' deeply. As village president of Middleville, Michigan, Charlie was totally committed to the citi­ zens of his community. When you are involved in your community, like Charlie, it’s not about the money you make or the perks you gel, it’s about the pride and love you have for your community. 1 first met Charlie at the Barry County Fair. The village of Middleville, the city of Hastings, and the Thomapple Township, would share a booth at the fair to promote our communities. Charlie was always there; he would open the booth in the morning and close it at night. Charlie and I shared a lot of ideas and took a lot of pride in bragging about our cities. Charlie always had a smile on his face and a chuckle on his breath. I would see Charlie all over the state representing his community at conventions, seminars, and eco­ nomic functions. I would always seek Charlie out and we spent a lot of time together at these meetings. I, myself, am not a veteran, but Charlie was. Charlie took a lot of pride in the Veterans Memorial in Middleville. He also took a lot of pride in representing his fellow veterans and helping with their needs. If you look around the village of Middleville and notice all the improvements that have been made, or that are being made, Charlie’s fingerprints are on them. Charlie didn’t do what he did for Charlie, he did all this for his community - and his community is belter because of Charlie. I take a lot of pride in who I am because of people like Charlie Pullen and his influence on all of us. Those who knew him are better because of him. Charlie Pullen was a lot of things to a lol of people. To me, he will always be my dear friend. Rest in Peace, old friend. back For each round of testing. the facility has had two or three members of the staff test - Resolution In memory of Charlie Pullen ThN™e Hastings council expresses grief over recent deaths ttn5*. hot>«ly udiated f ,and "lt0 ,hc M'd'Hculic «* * are back to work. As of last Thursday, about 200 people diag­ nosed with COVID-19 have died in Spectrum hospitals, Elmouchi said. To put that number into perspective, he said an average flu season results in about 20 to 35 deaths al Spectrum hospitals. Last week, Spectrum Health Pennock had 12 CO VID patients in the hospital, with one in the intensive care unit. Bed occupancy at the hospital was at 88 percent. 7 * The Spectrum network increased its Intensive Care Unit capacity by 30 percent in the last two weeks, after the network’s ICUs started approaching their limit. Elmouchi said the increase was done by temporarily moving dinicians, such as pulmonologists, to the Around 25 percent of all ICU patients at Spectrum facilities are being treated for COVID-19. “They’ve never taken care of this many very sick patients at the same lime," Elmouchi said of the ICU staff. Last Thursday, Spectrum had 345 patients who had been admitted to its hospitals for COVID-19. They are projecting that number to rise to between (XX) and 1.200 by Dec. 2, Elmouchi said. “We are very much worried, as is everyone in the country, about Thanksgiving," Chief Nursing Executive and Senior Vice President of Clinical Operations Shawn Ulreich said. Ulreich encouraged people to wear masks, social distance, wash their hands and not to have social gatherings. Former Village Manager Duane Weeks called Pullen’s death a great Joss (Q (he village and the general community.” The two men knew each o«ier ®vcn before Weeks began working fof t'ie v,*lage’s public works department 15 years ago. 'eeks would go on to become public ^orks manager and eventually village manager before retiring earlier this year. “He was a boss. yu^a trusted friend and confidant,” Weeks said. He really helped me with a lot of areas [where] I needed a sounding board and some support. Charlie always was fair and friendly and a wonderful person to be around. “It hurt to hear (that he died]. It shook me a little bit." Schellinger spoke of Pullen’s honest and direct character. “You always knew- where Giarlie stood. There was no wishy-washy [attitude] with him." Schellinger said. "He stated his opinion, in so many words, and that was basically it. He would stick by that. He wouldn’t falter or change his mind unless there were other facts that were presented." Schellinger also delighted in one of Pullen’s usual routines during village council meetings, where Pullen would ask each council member for any final comments before adjournment. Pullen would introduce each member with a "Mr.” or “Ms." greeting, followed by their first name. Schellinger was “Mr. Ed.” “He was always very respectful. He never did show anger. He might have been angry' at times, but he never did show it. Hc was always very' calm," Schellinger said. Before pounding the gave! to adjourn the meeting, Pullen, would tell those attending, “Thank you for your lime and thank you for your patience." In late 2017, Pullen was named the Barry County Senior Citizen of the Year by the Commission on Aging for his contributions to the community, particularly with veterans. He was named the following year as the Veteran of the Year for the Middleville area. As part of those honors, he was grand marshal for Middleville’s Memorial Day parade and the Hastings Summerfest parade, both in 2018. "Charlie was just a sweetheart, there’s no other way to explain it,” Pennington, of the CO A, said. "He was selfless, he was one of those people who was always giving ... he just had a real passion for veterans." In 2017, Pullen worked with veterans’ groups and local schools to put together a Patriot Day event commemorating the Sept. 11. 2001, attacks on the U.S. The event has been taken place annually since then. In addition to bis work with veterans, Pullen also helped organize Toys for Barry County, a charity effort 10 provide toys for kids in need during the Christmas season. Amanda Pullen said, with the level of support and condolences they have received in the past several days, combined with current restrictions on in-person indoor gatherings from the state, an outdoor public remembrance of her father seemed to make the most sense. . "It’s overwhelming, the outpouring of people messaging me, calling the house, saying what a big impact ne had on their lives, what a great guy he was. she said. "My mom said, ‘You know, we can’t just keep this to ourselves ... we’re better off doing something that everybody can come to? " Specifics of the Dec. 5 memorial sendee are still being worked out Pullen is survived by his wife of 32 years, Barb; children, Km*e 'unns) Thompson, Scon (Tammy) Pullen. Aman a Pullen, and Jamie. Jesse and Jason Bedwell; grandchildren. Camden, Carter, J^on, Emmi and Sebastian; brother, ineodore (Katherine) Pullen; sister-in-^’ snaron Pullen; and several nieces a»ri nephews. , Staff Writer K-becca Pierce a^uted to WHEREAS: On Charlie s application for appointment to the Barry County Veteran Affairs s Commission, in response to why he was seeking appointment, hc wrote: "My goal has y always been tn help veterans in any way I can.' "I like working with and for them."; and | WHEREAS: Charlie was a respected and valued member of the Commission, always advocating for the betterment of Barry County Veterans; and WHEREAS: Charlie was truly a servant leader, serving his countiy as a member of die Armed Forces, his community as President of the Village of Middleville, those that he worked with as Vice-president of Local UAW 1002 and fellow veterans as a friend, volunteer and member of the Barry County Veteran Affairs Commission; J J £ NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: that the Barry County Board of Commissioners, on * behalf of the citizens of Barry County, extends its sincere appreciation and gratitude in honor of Charles Pullen for his commitment, dedication and life-long service to Barry • County and Barry County Veterans. Heather Wing, Chairperson Barry County Board of Commissioners Pamela*A Palmer Barry County Clerk • Rebecca Pierce Editor Sentiments of loss pervaded the Hastings City Council meeting Monday night, beginning with a moment of silence for Middleville Village President Charles Pullen, who died Friday, and ending with heartfelt comments from Mayor David Tossava as he extended sympathies to Pullen’s family. During the 41-minute remote session via Zoom, the subject of death came up several times: Members of the council expressed condolences to Fire Chief Roger Caris, in the death of his wife, Barbara, to former mayor Frank Campbell in the loss of his wife, Linda, and for the death of Pullen. “We’ve lost some real good people." Councilman Don Bowers said. Councilman Bill Redman expressed his sympathies during his comments. Those sentiments were echoed by other council members. "I second that," Resseguie said. “Stay safe, my friends. I’ve lost loo many of my friends." "The last couple weeks have been real tough," Tossava said. “Charlie Pullen - and John Resseguie can tell you the same thing - 1 just want to convey my sympathies to the Village of Middleville.... They’re going to be at a real loss. 1, for one, am a better person for having known Charlie.” Pullen was hospitalized two weeks ago with COVID-19. The spread of the coronavirus in Barry County has reached such a level that the Barry-Eaton District Health Department health officials have said they no longer can deal with any but the most critical cases. "The police department report this month will look a little different because 1 can sum up our entire month in one word: COVID,” Chief Jeff Pratt wrote in his Nov. 23 report to the council. “As you all know, the COVID numbers in Barry County are exploding. “The members of HPD are exposed on a daily basis to some extent. As of this report,, all full-time officers are healthy. HPD does have two members of lhe reserve unit who are ill.’’ ( One of them was hospitalized. In other business, the council: • Approved, rescheduling lhe Cyclocross race that had been planned for Fish Hatchery Park Nov. 21 and 22 but had to be canceled because of COVID. The new dates for th$ event are Dec. 12-13, if Michigan Department of Health and Human Services orders permit1. • Voted to extend parking on downtown streets where there is signage to three hours. The downtown development authority recommended the extension and agreed to pay for changing lhe signs. • Approved two ordinances after second readings - one to allow the addition of commercial kennels in industrial zoned districts and the other to amend regulationsod accessory buildings. • Voted to adopt a limited English proficiency language access plan for lhe city/ • Authorized lhe mayor and clerk to sign the agreement with Marilyn Smith of Smith Housing Consulting to provide grant assistance for lhe rental rehabilitation project al 205 S. Jefferson St. • Hastines City Hall will be closed Thursday and Friday for the Thanksgivmg holidav. Tlte city’s compost site will not b< open Saturday. The final day the compost site will be open is Nov. 30. from 3 to 6pan. » and Alitor slory Mugs, Ornaments, Labels, Cards, Calendars, Pioture enlargements, Frames, Call 269-945-9554 lor Hastings Banner ads • •« \ Christmas Hems & Much, Much More a 1351 N.Broadway (M-43), Hastings r * 1351 oAood«:oini? !j.;i 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00 - 4:30 �inion Hflslinps Banw' Did you see Thanksgiving is always a part of us That’s snow way to end November As lhe snow began to fall this week, snowmen began to rise. At least this snowman rose up from the ground Tuesday in Delton at the hands of Nathan, 10, and Rebecca, 11, Froncheck. The snowman may not be Olaf, but he may have been Barry County's first snowman of this winter season. Since snow was in limited supply, this particu­ lar creation included rocks, leaves, dirt and the obligatory carrot for a nose. Do you remember? Bazaar tenders Banner Nov. 22, 1972 From Provincial House - Doris Holcomb of Assyria stopped at the booth at the Christmas bazaar “manned" by patients from Provincial House in Hastings. Mrs. William Czinder (stand­ ing) is almost always around helping her charges, and she was here with Ethel Yeiter and Elsie Coleman. Have you met? For Donna Kensington, owner of Razors Edge Hair Designers in Hastings, the line between family and business is indistinguishable. Originally from Bensenville, Ill., Kensington, 56, moved to Barry County with her parents in the summer of 1984. As she neared the end of high school, she pursued cosmetology training and — after completing her training — began working at Razors Edge the next spring, finishing cosmetology training while in high school. When she joined Razors Edge, the business was only about 5 years old, having opened in 1978. Little did Kensington know she’d spend the better part of the next four decades — 38 years — watching the salon and its employees grow and evolve. Now, she’s approaching her 17th year running the business. Kensington never planned to become a small business owner — though she knew it’s a common path for those within the cosmetology industry. But, after 21 years working at Razors Edge, the opportunity to take over the salon was dropped right into her lap. The previous owner, Ken Mingerink, was in the process of retiring and looking for someone to fill his shoes. He knew Kensington could run die salon and run it well. He offered her the opportunity, and she decided to take it. The many years Kensington has spent at Razors Edge have allowed her to form lasting friendships with her co-workers — many who also have worked at the salon for considerable amount of time, ranging from just under a decade to almost 40 years. “We have a fantastic group of ladies that work here.” Kensington said, “ft’s a great place to work. They are great ladies, and we couldn’t do it without them, and we really wouldn’t want to. It’s like a family here, it’s and they get to hear about yours. “I have some clients I’ve had since Day 1 when I first started.” The connections she’s made with co-workers and clients make the salon feel more like a family than a business. “I think it’s just a great connection. We aren’t just co-workers,” Kensington said. “We’re family away from our families. “We live in a fabulous community that helps support one another.” she added. In her personal life. Kensington values family, too, spending much of her time with her husband of four years David Kensington, their children — Kaitlynn. Samantha, Dani and Arthur — and three grandsons. We love to spend time with them. We re very family-oriented, so we spend a lot of time with our kids and grandkidsLxrve those little boys •** r For fostering friendship and fam,b' within the community, Donna Kensington is this week’s Banner Bright Light„ Favorite movie; “The Notebook.’ Favorite season: Summer - lo\e be,I1£ outdoors and daylight lasting longer into the evening. Donna Kensington Favorite dinners- luisagna. Paslas »nd pizza. not really just a place to work.’’ , «h»‘ • »ke about n» 1 ,ovc wha'‘ Kensington and the staff perform a <1» but. I love the people morevariety of services al Razors Edge, including 1 am m,»M content wh'l,: D3V‘dand haircuts and styling, perms. color, waxing, are spending time together »>,h our k d ear piercing, tanning and more. ’I’he time grandbabies 6 spent completing these services allow them Hobbies: Cooking cr.if»>”S- reading alul to bond with their clients by chatting about working outdoor, , the day-to-day of their lives. Kensington said. “We have clients we’ve had since they Jvr were babies and then they grow up and go volunteer work f , 0 J he or ^hZ;',' ‘oil^^ r""Mthrough all of life’s changes,” Kensington Bwner, said. “You see them grow through the years bend information to ,J5I ‘ and build lasting friendships. They aren’t just clients. You get to hear about their lives, One might think that, this Thanksgiving Day, it would be hander to give thanks. The COVID-19 pandemic is consuming our way of life, and it’s hijacked even the simplicity of just getting together to give thanks. Some have been tragically affected, and we grieve for those families who’ll have one less seat al the table because of this horrible disease. Americans like to celebrate the holidays and all of the traditions, so having limitations on how many can join us for the annual feast is disheartening. Thanksgiving is one of our most cherished holidays because it’s all about getting together and enjoying each other’s company over a meal, during some conversation, and with a focus on one of our most important virtues: thankfulness. One thing is for sure, the season will be different this year. The traditional Thanksgiving morning Macy’s parade in New York City - always filled with floats, bands, balloons and lots of entertainment now gets “reimagined” as a television-only presentation with participants reduced by more than 75 percent to avoid bringing large groups of people together. The parade has always marked lhe beginning of the Christmas season, and, every year, dear old Santa Claus warms our hearts at the end with his bigger-lhan-life personality. Maybe this year we’ll have a football game or two, but even those will feel a bit empty with no fans in the stands and cheerleading sections comprised of just our immediate family members at home. Even though we may be lucky enough to be thankful for good health, the virus is beginning to divide us. It’s discouraging us from getting together with family and friends and it’s especially disheartening for any of us who has a senior who’s been left alone without seeing their loved ones for months on end. Hard as it is to see. however, this devastating epidemic may be pushing us to find thankfulness deep down. In lhe 19th century’. Swiss philosopher Henri Fredric Amiel observed the important tie between gratitude and thankfulness. “Thankfulness is the beginning of gratitude,” .said Amiel, “and gratitude is the completion of thankfulness.” Amiel maintained that “gratitude is shown in acts,” a sentiment that the late American writer William Arthur Ward followed up on when hc said, “Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.” One hundred years ago - in the midst of the Spanish flu pandemic that brought the world to its knees like COVID-19 is doing today -citizens of Barry County were inspired to give thanks and found a way to show their gratitude in a similarly difficult time. An entry in a 1919 edition of the Hastings Banner carried the headline: "Follow this suggestion and it will add to your enjoyment of Thanksgiving." The piece (reprinted in full in last week’s Banner) called on local citizens to give whatever vegetables, fruit, and canned foods they could spare to an in-need Pennock Hospital. The story' acknowledged “the generous giving by the business men and factories of the city and of such supplies as we have mentioned by the farmers of Barry County - these alone make it possible to maintain Pennock Hospital whose value to this city and county have been so fully demonstrated in recent years.” Today, that gratitude and expression of thanks continues. In last week’s Reminder, wc highlighted a “New Way of Operating at lhe Baum Family Surgery Center, a 512 million. 19,000-square-foot. state-of-the-art sureical facility that will provide highquality care, with upgrades focused on maximum efficiencies to allow more sophisticated procedures at today’s Pennock Hospital. . of local The Baum Family and a long list donors made this new facility possible. For many years, the DeCamp Family Foundation and the Groos Family Foundation also have been major donors to the hospital. They, along with hundreds of local donors, understand the importance of our local hospital and are committed to building a state-of-the-art facility that will attract young surgeons and keep Pennock on the cutting-edge of healthcare. And as you look around this community and the county, there are so many reasons to be grateful for the many generous families who continue to show their “gratitude in acts of kindness.’’ Philanthropy is defined as the desire to help others - a way of making lhe world a better place for all of us. Tlie Nov. 14 Reminder also showed that in the legacy left by Bud and Doris Leonard who, upon their deaths, left their entire estate to the Barry Community Foundation. Part of the land they also held was put into aconservancy for all of us to enjoy forever. The Leonards are another family who were lbankful and expressed their gratitude by giving back to the community. As we come to another holiday season, - »US n°lf0r8et l^al ^v’n8 >s so important n can be something as simple as buying a ^nn.H°r SOn?e°nC Who’s hun^'- Donating COat^nruf00^ l° 3 I<>Cal driVe’ dona(in8 loci! s.wea.lcrs or giving your time at a Mnk?rFani2aiIOn are aH ^prasions of our TfeYn"655!/0’ Whal *e’Ve becn SivenThese are all generous acts that make the i world a better place when we’re all willing to give back. So even though Thanksgiving will be different this year, there is still a reason to give thanks and to express our gratitude in acts of kindness each and every day of the year. That’s how we overcome a pandemic. That’s how we calm our fears. That’s how we show our love for each other. Happy Thanksgiving to all’. Thanks to our local retailers Don’t forget to thank local merchants who give all year long to make our communities stronger. It’s easy during a pandemic to turn to online shopping, but these retailers and service providers are an important part of our local economic landscape. They need our support. You can thank them by shopping locally. Fred Jacobs, CEO, J-Ad Graphics, Inc. (Write UsALetterThe Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: •All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor's discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. . Letters serving theJunction of “cards of thanks" will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. n‘,U,e • SS » ■ be f’““!hed samo *» . We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, douhle-snaceri M b. �2020 - P; Tho Hastings Bantw — Thursday, SupeHntendenrs departure won’t take any^mS away from Hastings schools To tin'illy „„ wearing a mask while hc holds the flag to control it during (hc outdoor Veterans Day tribute - outdoors. Clod bless him. I turn to Page 3 and see seven photos of 12 people nt the county commissioners' meeting indoors and only two are wearing masks. Where are the leaders of Barry County? Certainly not at the county board meeting. He lie is n<nv «ut on lhe highu' 'ijiogg a, |h' "K "> Kcl from ThomnpP1*2. *7 s<1y la- |,;J■juiwniitcndent there. Ik ,nl-~ .omniuie i.,,1 ""'‘■ing out on the shorte-r "“Ml now have front his "°"*j pjrler account Based on his Tweet- and1 I,. whlch , |wve liersonally L freed<„ ' ?-v hc hi“> been missing out -' "; ™ speech, because he felt nnl«-nde»l of schools here to exereisc ’ • However. • ()J »ng resident of Hastings. a ‘ |he ‘n&s High School, a former teach* let and a parent of three current S& ^7 ’H tell you what he Sandra Greenfield, Hastings IjouLn°s sn>:'11 ,ownRemenap mis-45*1 • n'all businesses that Lack of mask-wearing indoors is a concern To the editor.* (tajTtST -ern'm i? N(“v 12 back' rourirt ' r l’agc’,“ lon8le,tcr w>'h a blue ,h ,he heallh department, and I: un > C ’)arIncrs and leaders of Barry and baton counties • The message: We are in crisis. Below that is a photo of Dr Jim Alkinson Each COVID death is a person, not a statistic To the editor: During past national wars, emergencies and disasters, people did not die and become only a number or statistic. Names were published m newspapers in columns often bordered in heavy black lines. Could such lists be used in the Banner to remind us of the costs of the COVID-19 pan­ demic in Barry County? The names and the townships, city or villages where they had lived might help us focus on not only that person, but also the COVID scourge and per­ haps our friends and family. Television sta­ tions could even begin to scroll victims’ names across the bottom of the screen as a public health reminder, which might help us to focus. The lack of specific names amounts to a news blackout, of sons. All this came to mind one recent evening when a person was highlighted on the local TV news. He was a nice man, remembered with fondness. But he was only one of many who had recently died from COVID-19 in our view ing area. I wondered how the families and friends of the other victims must have felt. Spouses, parents, children, friends and neighbors are now being affected. COVID no longer is a problem “out there.” It has entered Barry County and afflicted many people. We have the power to help, if we act. Michael Jones, Hastings Editor's Note: Current laws prohibit health officials from releasing the names of COVID19 patients. Thanks for expressions of thankfulness To the editor: I really enjoyed the ‘Thankfulness’ contri­ butions from your readers the week before Thanksgiving t Reminder Nov. 21). It was quite humbling. Maybe you would consider doing another reader contribution section closer to Christmas on ’What brings you joy?’ It is refreshing to see so much community involvement in the local newspaper. Good goin’, and thanks. Jacqueline Muma. Rutland Township Thankful for compassion of this community To the editor: I am thankful that my job as executive 'director of Family Promise of Barry- County allows me to w itness the loving compassion of our community on a daily basis. Family Promise provides temporary hous­ ing for families experiencing homelessness through a netw ork of churches that open their buildings, their lives and their hearts to our families. Week after week, these churches provide al least 108 hours of volunteering. Volunteers also provide delicious meals for our families. In the Family Promise model, these volun­ teers are crucial to providing a caring and supportive atmosphere for our families. Thank you to the following churches that have provided volunteers, food and/or shelter to our families in the last year: Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Delton Community­ Church, First Presbyterian of Hastings, Green Street United Methodist Church. Hastings Baptist Church. Hastings Free Methodist Church. Kilpatrick Church. Lakewood United Methodist Church, Lifegate Community­ Church, McCallum United Brethren, Orangeville Baptist Church, Thornapple Valley Church. Hastings Church of the Nazarene, Hastings Seventh Day Adventist Church. Michigan Avenue Church of Christ, St. Rose of Lima and Woodgrove United Brethren. Martha Ports. Hastings Know Your Legislators:J Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing. Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400: 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov U S mail’ Sen Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent. 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. ohone (202) 224-4822. fiarv Peters. Democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510oono nhone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room 720 HO Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 233. ^^psidenfs comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Capitol Information line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. :■ --- --- ------------------------- ----------- 'll -- - ' it । l.i Check out al! our Special Services: • Business Cards «Greeting Cards « Big Prints & Posters ♦ Folding & Laminating • Custom Rubber Stamps * Plastic Binding and more! rally around our students and each other. He did not experience on a regular b:nis the great restaurants and hardworking servers wc have in those establishments. He missed the beautiful shops, the well-maintained streets, the many weekend events, the giggles in the splash pad and the parks and recreational opportunities that surround us. Hastings welcomed Remenap with open arms and wanted to see him succeed in his very first time as a superintendent. By leaving after not much more than a year in (his position. Mr. Remenap missed out on forming personal relationships with the nearly 2.600 amazing and unique students who make up Hastings Area Schools. He missed out on investing in the dedicated, hardworking, passionate, creative teachers of our district. He missed out on keeping promises to the selfless, caring, invested administrators he supervised. Hc missed out on supporting the underappreciated, overworked counselor.^ secretaries, custodians, bits drivers ani paraprofessionals who lake care of all of In spite of all that he missed, here's thf amazing new .,; Our Saxon family continue Uo have all of the resources it needs to continul to be a community that loves our students, supports our schools, our small bu.-inesse. and each other. Wc have a committed schoo board, amazing educators ami schoo personnel, and dedicated parents And so we send off Mr. Remenap wit), best wishes for IK knowing it is always | great day to be a Saxon! Melissa Pattani Hasting^ Americans’ unusual response to the coronavirus i Pave Schmitz It’s difficult for Jo understand why we, Americans, are ,n£ the way we are to this horrendous p 3c 1 we call the coronavi­ rus. Il’s .something very new to most of us. something we can t see or understand, some­ thing that caught most of us completely off to try to save as many lives as possible. Most guard, and something vve can’t control at this are being inundated by lhe demands of their moment. I don’tunderstand uhy there seems jobs, working extra hours and finding there to be so much apa 9 about a disease that are no replacements on the way. Hospital beds already has taken more than 250,(XX) hves. are full, people are dying left and right, with To put (his camage in perspective: In World no clear end in sight. War II. 291557 Americans died. In the Some may say. “Well, that’s what they Vietnam War. 2 HAM Americans died. We signed up for when they decided to go into are well on our way to eclipsing these deaths nursing, being a doctor, health care aide, etc.” due to the coronavirus. But. if you ask the^e dedicated professionals, ?\nd. yet. why are most Americans general­ most would respond that they had never con­ ly nonchalant, almost uncaring, about these sidered. never anticipated, having to “go to deaths of brothers, mothers, grandfathers, war” with this ruthless COVID-19. It would neighbors and strangers? Why do so many be like, if they were National Guard soldiers refuse to wear masks when they should know and they expected to do peacekeeping, but that, if they and the other person near them were, instead, thrown into intense combat both wear masks (even if one has the virus), with many casualties, injuries and deaths all there is only a 1.5-percent to 3-percenl chance around them. of getting infected? If someone is uninfected, Maybe most of us are in shock. We were and they wear a mask in public, but they are blindsided. We feel helpless to do anything next to someone who is infected (and may not about it. No one seems to have a handle on it, have symptoms), they have up to a 70-percent and the story' of the coronavirus is always chance of contracting this deadly virus. evolving. So why is wearing a mask become so “weaBut. as the real experts have been telling us ponized” and ‘’politicized’’? Why are for some time, there are some things we can Americans so divided? do about it: Wear a mask when y ou are out of I think of the health care workers who are your home. Socially distance 6 feel. Wash putting their lives (and their family ’s health) your hands frequently. And do not galhcrin on the line every day Ibey work their tails off large groups - especially where there are GUEST COMMENTARY those inconsiderate people who refuse to wcaf masks, which is a recipe for the disaster we are now seeing. People around the world look upon Americans as fools, as undisciplined, as havj ing a government which does not respond h) the facts on the ground like they did. Most of the other countries in the world did not have the rate of infection, did not have the level of damage to their economies, or the level o| unemployment or the increase in poverty liki we have now. Many of them may love Americans, and they feel sorry for us. and what we arc going through. And here wc live in the richest, most powerful country in thi world: The so-called Superpower. 1 feel sad. disappointed and scared abou| our future. • Our family is safe and doing OK. We are hunkered down and not going out of the house often “- and very carefully wearing masks when we do. It's my “fellow Americans” that I hav<| empathy for and care about: I wish I could dq more to make a difference. That’s why I anj writing this letter. | Dave Schmitz lives in Middleville^ Specialist answers retirement questions Vonda Van Til Public Affairs Specialist My father receives Social Security retirement henefts, and I will be in charge of his estate when he dies. When that occurs, do I need to report his death to Social Security' or will benefits autonuitically stop? When your father dies, notify Social L Security as soon as possible by calling 800­ 772-1213 (TTY 800-325-0778). Another person, such as a spouse, may be eligible for surv'ivors’ benefits based on his record. Also, we might be able to pay a one-time payment of $255 to help with funeral expenses. We suggest reading a copy of our online publication “How Social Security Can Help You When a Family Member Dies," at social.security.gov/pubsH 0008.html. I’m trying to decide when to retire. Can Social Security help? Tlie best plaCC lo slarl ‘s w*^ a v*s’110 l^e online Social Security Statement. The Statement provides you with estimates of benefits for you and your family, as well as your eamines record and information you should consi^er about retirement and retirement planning- It is easy to access your statement online by creating a My Social Security account. To create an account, visit .socialsecurityg°v/,n>accouilL The “right" time lo retire is d>H<-‘rent for everyone and depends on your individual situation. To help you make your own decision, vve offer an online fact sheet. When To Start Receiving Retirement Benefit-**, that highlights some of the factors to confer. Find this publication at socialsecurity.gov/pubs/IOi47.html. Can I nt> rvftrefnent benefits and receive benefit <lS 11 sl)(,tt^' only? How does that work? It depends on >°ur date of birth. If you were bom on of before Jan. 1, 1954, anj your spouse is rcceiyn? Social Security benefits, you may appb ,or rvl,re,ucnt benefits on your spouse’s record as long as you an; a| your fuH retirement age: ’°U l ,cn W‘H earn delayed retirement cred'1'llP age 70, as long as you do not coll#1 £ ,ls ()n ><’ur own work record. Later* when you begin receiving benefits 011 re^'ord. those payments eould very •gher than they would have been othtfrWl^; If your fuH re‘>rement age and does n°! K‘nt*,Us’ your spouse will have to apP > ‘ *e»etits and request the Pay ments besUT • I hen you can receive benefits on >° ' 'Use’s Social Security record. . If you .* or alter Jan. 2, 1954 wi»h k> >•’« must file f()l' »ll benerus l‘» ,ni eligible. beeunt) sst"** , *">- iH-ttelits lor which ^°u are eligd’^ * >'°u accordingly. For retirement benefits at socialsecurity.gov retirement. SOCIAL SECMSTY MATTERS How long does it take to complete the online application for retirement benefits? It can take as little as 15 minutes tb complete the online application. In most case!. once your application is submitted individuals born on or after Jan. 2.1954. there electronically, you’re done. There are n{> is no longer an option lo select which benefit forms to sign, and usually no documentation you would like to receive, even bey ond your is required. Social Security will process yotfr full retirement age. Widows are an exception, application and contact you if any furth<jr since they may choose to lake their deceased information is needed. There’s no need to spouse’s benefit without filing for their own. drive to a local Social Security office or wag For more information, visit socialsccurily.gov. for an appointment with a Social Securit}’ representative. To retire online, go l|> / have never worked, but my spouse has. scKialsccuriiy.gov/retireonline. ! ! What will my benefits be? How do I apply for disability benefits^ You can be entitled lo as much as one-half of your spouse’s benefit amount when you How long does it take to get a decision after 1 reach full retirement age. If you decide lo apply for disability benefits? • You can apply for disability benefits onlinj: receive Social Security retirement benefits before you reach full retirement age. the at socialsecurity.gov/bcnefits/. /X decision on amount of your benefit is reduced.The amount your disability application usually takes three of reduction depends on when you will reach to five months. The time frame can vary full retirement age. For example, if your full depending on the nature of your disability^ retirement age is 66. you can get 35 percent of how quickly we can get your medical evidencf your spouse’s unreduced benefit al age 62 (a from your doctor or other medical soured; permanent reduction); if your full retirement whether it’s necessary to send you tor h age is 67. you can gel 32.5 percent of your medical examination; and whether we revKV| . spouse’s unreduced benefit at age 62 (a vour application for quality puqxvscs. ' Create or sign in to your personal Mv permanent reduction). Social Security account at sueialvccunty.gov; The amount of your benefit increases if myaccuunt to check your claim status. your entitlement begins al a later age. up to the maximum of 50 percent at full retirement \bnda Van Hl is the public uffiurs spa ialiy age. However, if you are taking care of a child for West Michigan. You may nnte her cy who is under age 16 or who get* Social Social Security Administration. J(W5 Krap^ Security disability benefits on your spouse’s NE. Grand Rapids Ml 49525 or via emad ip record, you get the full spouse’s benefits, 'vundaxantil^ssagov. regardless of your age. lx*am more about k 0 The Hastings n,irru County. since Ibut) Devoted to the Interests of ba Hastings Banner, Inc. A D1V,r^)G9Xm • Fax; (269) 945-5192 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phono­ News and press releases-nwS'tD Frederic Jacobs Publisher & CEO Hank Schuurlng CFO advertising department ddj .XT.X b 30 -> M. to Scon Ornmen Mike Gilmore 1 -mtie’d Fy Greenfield i.e Yonker j 1 Subscription Rates: $52 per year *n Barry Ccuuty ‘j .NEWSROOM• Rebecca Psica Kathy Mau« |CW $60 per year in aCjoirvng counts 1 $65 per year elsewhere 1 POSTMAStErt iCd't PO BC-X1W Luke Ffoncheck Sophie B*11’3 Greg Chandler Taylor Ow^ns ndC; r, �Elaine Garlock Happy Thanksgiving to all. May everyone enjoy the day and their dinner, even if it •> far different this year with a reduced number of family members present This loo shall pa<s. This year there will be no Christmas Round the Town. Likely there are many disappointed vendors who have prepared their wares for sale this weekend. Also canceled is the annua community Thanksgiving service usually hel at First Congregational Church with several pastors and music groups taking part. Central United Methodist Church members have been notified there will be no services Sunday mornings until lhe end ol the year. I ven with keeping a safe distance apart, two couples from lhe church have been infected with the virus. Each week, members receive from lhe church office a list of prayer concerns and announcements. lhe Lansing newspaper recently carried an obituary for a former resident Claire Kennedy of llermansville in the UP. She graduated from Lakewood High Schoo! in 1965. (Jail Brophy, whose husband, Gary, was hired to teach in Lake Odessa in 1958. died November 17. Jeffrey A. Keessen, AIFOp (269) 948-9969 525 W. Apple St. Hastings, MI 49058 www.watersedgefinancial.coni Taking care of what's important to yon so that you can focus on what matters most to you Sourrtk*otienrJ through 1 PL Financial. Member HNRA/SIPC CITY OF HASTINGS PUBLIC NOTICE ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 593 The undersigned, being the duly qualified and acting Clerk of the City of Hastings, Michigan, does hereby certify that ORDINANCE NO. 593: amendment to Section 90-831 to allow regulating accessory buildings. was adopted by the City Council of the City of Hastings at a regular meet­ ing on the 23rd of November, 2020. A complete copy of this Ordinance is available for review at the office of the City Clerk at City Hall. 201 East State Street, Hastings, Monday through Friday. 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Jane M. Saurman City Clerk Worship Together ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "Wc Exist To Be An Expression Of Who Jesus Is To The World Around Us". 2635 N. M 43 Hwy., P.O. Bov 8, Hastings. Telephone 269­ 945-9121. Email hastfmc<g. gmail.com. Website: www, hustinyMrecinetbodisLcom. Pastor Brian Teed, Assistant Pastor Emma Miller, Worship Director, Martha Stoctz.el. Sunday Morning Worship: 9am and 10:30 a m. Due to lhe current health crisis, our nursery is remains closed. Weekly activity bags for chilrcn are available in the 9 a.m. service and Kid’s Church is available in our 10:30 service. Our worship center is set up lor social distancing. Aftermath Student Ministries: Sunday 6 p.m. ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH «05 S. Jefferson. 269 945 4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip. Mass 4.30 p.m. Saturday Mass 8 and 11 a.m. Sunday. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn. Hastings. Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages: 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30-8 p.m.. Kids 4 Truth (Children Kindergartcn-5th Grade), 6:30 8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p m. Bible Studs and Prayer, ('all Church Office 948-8004 for information. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E. State Rd.. P.O. Box 273, Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948­ 0900. Website: w vvw.lifcgatecc. com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grose Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel­ chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship lime 10:30 a.m Youth activities: call for information. WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings. Ml 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday. 9.45 a.m. CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616 690 8609. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling. Ml 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 10 a.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd.. P.O. Box 765. (comer of Milo Rd. & S. M­ 43), IX’Iton. Ml 490.16. P:utor Roger Claypool, (517) 204­ 9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 lo 11:30am, Nursery and Childrens Ministry . Wednesday night Bible .Unify and prayer iiinc 6:30 to 7:30 pm. llm information on worship sen ice is provided by The Hastings Bunner, the churches and these locidbitsinesses: Hum Maxine (Shellenbarger) Birman of Hastings passed away on November 24, 2020 at Thomapple Manor at the age ol 101. She was bom January 28. 1919 in Olivet, the oldest of five children bom to North and Inez Shellenbargcr. She moved to Hastings when she was 13 years old. graduated in lhe Hastings High School Class of 1937. married Fred Birman in 1940. and raised five children on a small farm near Coats Grove, while Fred worked at lhe Bliss. She was preceded in death by her husband of 40 years; son. Charles Birman; sisters. Wancta Lcffel and Katherine Coleman: brothers. Rolvert and Richard Shellenbargcr; best friends and traveling companions. Dorothy Glover and Nellie Johnson; and many other friends and family. Surviving are her daughters. Margaret Eaton and Janice Smith; sons. Jack (Sandy) Birman and Darrell (Cheryl) Birman; daughter-in-law. Shirley Shade; nine grandchildren: Marsha James, Laura Eaton. Rick, Mellissa, John, Shawn, and Tracey Birman, and Jason and Nick Smith, many great-grandchildren; and several great-great­ grandchildren. /After the death of her husband in 1980. Maxine lived alone and drove her car until she was 89 years old She enjoyed helping people, crocheting, crossword puzzles, watching TV (especially Law rence Welk, ice skating, wresting, old westerns and RFD), talking on the phone, and collecting dolls. In accordance with herAurial wishes, there will be no visitation, aid burial is handled by Girrbach Funeral Home with final resting next to her husband and near her son at Hastings Township Cemetery. Rest in peace, Mom* To leave an online condolence, visit w w w.girrbaclifaneralhomc jict. HEEF starts December with ‘Giving Tuesday’ The Hastings Education Enrichment Foundation is launching ib Giving Tuesday campaign on Dec, I to support students and classrooms of Hastings Area School System. Giving Tuesday follows Black Friday and Cyber Monday, so it falls on Tuesday. “In a year when nothing seems to be nor­ mal. we’re happy to still be able to work with our schools and our community to coordinate donations through HEEF,’’ said Margie Haas, president of the HEEF board. Giving Tuesday is a donation campaign, Haas said, but it’s also a good time to gel a jumpstart on year-end giving and remind the community to think of HBEF and the ""•Urr.-'T 0,1 ,he Students ll'Slri';1' HUbl* lias been able to P>»vilfc enneh' rnent funding for students of Hastings Area Schools with 100- of d()I,.|Kj funds going directly to students” Haas said- "Were wry proud of our’|ow'overhead costs. I here are no adtninhtralb* fee'-lhanks 10 lhe volunteer board that tnana«« lhc Hl-.EIprograms.” 111,1 * HHEF was started in |985. ''i,h ils ,1,is' von is to supplement the eduwli»"al pro­ grams of the Hast; Ate1 School System «>th enrichment fun(lil,., ’ Students in all grade levels. elenltnt3n thr*1’, high school, may benefit from <he enrichment activities. T|. . . , horizons inehul.-n ,uundiino,,b ...j k ‘,H eUfT«culum area< I hi, organizatio ‘ a kit sUPPorl Hastings Area SchJ I we ,u’cd ,he financial re.sUUrecs >,s’ iUU ... to do that.” Haas said. “We has ° COnl*-<(X)0 fnndrais- ^r’-d^-stu-uh a do„X: IIa3 iata?xlii!(^aS 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 1699W.M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 .... 1,b°X "in^dy at Hustings Area s’ i n,acl ,,a^^h^’.2’2 (Ira“d. Brad Russell Greenfield was born June 12. I960 and passed away November 17. 2020. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Margaret and DeWayne, and his elder brother, Steve. Survived by his wife. Shelly: daughters. Jcrica and Merissa, and sisters. Teressa and Becky, and brother, Dennis. Shelly and Brad were married for 34 years. Over their time together they enjoy ed raising their daughters, bowling, traveling and running Cedar Creek Grocery, the family business. After Shelly’s accident you could find Brad taking care of her with kindness and compassion. He spent over 15 years caring for lhe woman he loved the most in this world. Brad would drive Shelly all over town and to family events to make sure she was enjoying life. Anyone who knew them would speak of lhe extreme devotion that Brad had for Shelly. “Men like your father make lhe world go round." At 60 years old Brad left a list of accomplishments behind so long his daughters had to find his resume, despite being driven around the country by him pointing out factories hc had installed machinery in. He started off working on farms in high school and after he graduated in the class of 78 from Hastings High School, he worked at Henry's and BJ. Hy draulics to put himself through school. He graduated in 1981 from Sperry and Vickers Hydraulics academy with his degree in Industrial Hydraulics. While working he continued taking night classes at Kellogg community college where he graduated in 83 after majoring in Industrial Electricity and Electronics and minoring in Criminal Justice. He finished his schooling out in 1986 at J.N. Fauver Hydraulics and Pneumatics school. After finishing he worked for McCormicks for 10 years becoming a Journeyman Millwright for the 1102. He finished off his career working as a general foreman for W. Soule. Brad was known as a man who could do anything and would do anything for anyone. A man of steel. He and his wife built their homestead from the ground up and in his later years he was most proud of the auto and wood shop he built on to his bam. You rarely found him relaxing. If he wasn't building or fixing something he was riding lhe trails, hunting, watching the news, or enjoying his motorcycle. Everyone knew they could rely on Brad and if you needed him he would be there, adorned in bibbies and chore boots with whatever tools you need to solve your problem. Even if it was just an ear to listen. Unless it was Thursday. Thursdays were for Cindy and the bible study crew. Brad passed away unexpectedly doing what he loved, hunting, with the best view of Greenfield Deer Park. We know he has taken lhe back roads to a better place. He will be missed dearly by family and friends. In lieu of flowers please donate to the Quality Deer Management Association, an organization that Brad supported. No services will be held at present but the family will be holding a celebration of life in the spring. There will be a Celebration of Life Service at a later date. Arrangements provided by Girrbach Funeral Home, Hastings, Michigan. To leave online condolences visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net. GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 269-945-9554 for more information. Charles Thomas Pullen, age 71 of Middleville, passed away at Pennock Hospital on November 20.2020. Charles was born on August 25, 1949 in Hastings to Albert and Mildred (Shooker) Pullen. Charles was a faithful employee at Bradford White for over 44 years. Charles proudly served his country in the United Stales Army, and being a veteran was extremely important to him. He served on numerous veteran’s committees, and volunteered with the Grand Rapids Home for Velerans-No Member Dies Alone program. He was very involved in the community he volunteered for United Way and held various civic roles including being on the Village planning and zoning board since 2002. and serving as lhe Village Council President. Charles was a very giving person. He loved people and never met a stranger. In his spare time, hc enjoyed being outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. Charles will be dearly missed by his loving wife, Barbara (Holtnisl) Pullen: children, Katie (Chris) Thompson. Scott (Tammy) Pullen, Amanda Pullen, Jamie Bardwell. Jesse Bardwell, Jason Bardwell; grandchildren. Camden, Carter. Paityn, Jaxon, Enimi, Sebastian; brother, Theodore (Katherine) Pullen; sister-in-law. Sharron Pullen; many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother. Al Pullen. A memorial service will be held at the Middleville Village Pavilion on Saturday. Dec. 5, 2020 al 1 p.m. Military honors will be conducted by our local American Legion posts. .Attendance is limited due to the Covid restrictions and people may lie requested to remain in their vehicles. Those who wish to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider the needs of the family to help with medical expenses, or Barry County Veterans Affairs. Please visit wvvw.beelcrgoresfuneral.com to leave a condolence message or share a memory with Charles' family. Charlene Drayton On November IK. 2020. Charlene Drayton passed away peaeefully in her sleep. She was 86 years old. z\ lifelong Hastings native. Charlene was well loved in her small town. Charlene was the mother of Cynthia Kennedy and f-.vely n Campbell l,-.hvSh",e h|r i’"." she n,adc ''me to • by sit and help raise children in her .e ghborhood. Charlene also worked at Bud irk,K* U‘*S Predectfascd by her husband .She will be missed, �The Hastings Hanner ~ Thursday. November 26. 2020 — Page 7 fl look back at the stories Oho columns on local history In the Hastings Banner turning BACK THE PAGES , Barry County in the Spanish American War, Part 5 The following is the fifth of a si.\-part series compiled by the late Joyce Wcinbrecht and published in the Banner from mid-August to early October 1998. Six hundred U.S. Marines landed on the shores of Cuba June IO. 1898. Three days later, American troops under Maj. Gen. Shafter headed for Santiago from Key West Fla., arriving June 20. 1898. landing at Daiquiri. This group included companies F. I, K and L. of the First Battalion. The Michigan 33rd and 34th Volunteer regiments sailed on lhe Harvard from Newport News. Va.. bound tor Santiago Cuba. June 23. While Gen. Shafter was supervising lhe loading of the troops and supplies from aboard lhe Seguranca. Gen. Joseph Wheeler, who had .served in the Confederate Cavalry during the U.S. Civil War some three decades earlier, decided to attack the Spaniards at Las Guasimas immediately and at daybreak June 24. He sent lite Rough Riders into battle. They were supported by the First Cavalry and the 10th (Negro) Cavalry. A force of insurrectos (Cubans) also joined the attack. This was the first offensive of the war on land. The Spaniards pulled out of their trenches and left luis Guasimas to the Americans. One of the Rough Rider troops later said they went blindly down a hill. They heard the scream or whine of bullets, with dust fly ing and many little explosions. The trooper said he never saw lhe enemy, but Americans fired a couple of rounds in the direction of the enemy to try out their guns. They spent three hours tramping up and down, with perspiration rolling off the soldiers. They tossed away everything but their cartridge belts to lighten their loads. Sixteen Americans were killed and 52 wounded in the clash. Gen. Shafter was not pleased at first, since he had intended to send trained regulars into lhe first skirmish, but had to credit the men since they now occupied Las Guasimas. which was vital to the attack on Santiago. Gen. Shafter privately warned Maj. Gen. Wheeler, known as “Fighting Joe,” to not make such a move again without specific orders to do so. Poor roads made it difficult to move supplies and to move the six-mule wagons with the supplies and ammunition over the twisting dirt roads. It was a slow process. The men in the field were quite short of essentials, such as food. clothing and ammunition. The hurricane season in the Caribbean was close at hand and could cause great damage to the supply .ships belore they were unloaded. Cuban weather became a subject for discussion in the United States, with gambling men making bets on lhe dale ol lhe season s first hurricane. It took over a week to unload lhe ships, and the supplies were stored under canvas on the beach and the caissons were able to keep moving. It did rain twice daily, at sunrise and sunset, but it also quickly dried out. which made it miserable only while it was falling. They took Sevilla and went on to El Pozo Hill June 30. 1898. From there, they could study the .Spanish entrenchments on San Juan Hill. Kettle Hill to the right of San Juan, and the village of El Caney. I'he Spanish troops were barricading the El Caney streets, setting up guns in position on the rooftops. Malaria was breaking out in the Fifth Corps, and Gen. Shafter did not want to prolong the campaign, since the jungle lever could be more deadly than enemy guns One division and one battery ol artillery were sent to assault El Caney at daybreak July 1. lhe artillery assigned to the men at El Cancv. San Juan Hill, and Kettle Bill were obsolescent field guns. The French ha developed a 75-mm gun that had a rapid- ire Mechanism and modern aiming evicts. ■he War Departmem of the °l the tremendous advances ini lie < a lhe assault on San Juan Hill and Ke k H.ll began about 9 a.m. the siune day. Ik •Sih Riders, led by Lt. <-°'1 *<*> welt, who were supposed to be kadng 1* assault.had to shove their way through e 'Miks of sweating infanirymen lo get lo UK f,«ni so they could indeed lead the wa). A Signal Corps balhnin "as following he i^ps. Spanish troops began >limiting a k with rifles and shrapnel. Some of Ik '"'antry were caught in lhe firing. I he Spanish puncture iheTalloon, which sank quiet!) A native of the Galesburg area, Gen. William R. Shafter commanded the army that invaded Cuba and occupied Santiago when Gen. Lenares surrendered. to earth. Col. Derby got out unharmed, but the aerial phase of the war against Spain was ended. Fhe 25th Negro infantry entered El Caney, and the Spanish commander, Gen. Vara del Ray . was killed. The U.S. lost 441 men — 81 killed and 360 wounded. I'he Spanish lost 235. killed or wounded, and 120 were captured. First Lt. John J. Pershing was an officer in the 10th Negro Cavalry. He described the march to San Juan Hill as a hellish thing. Barry County’s own John Garrison [featured in last week's Hanner], I?1*1 U.S. Regular, admired the fighting quality of lhe Negro troops. Had it not been for lhe Negro troops, he said, the Rough Riders would all have been killed since the Spaniards had them in a trap and were shooting them dow n, w hen lhe Negro soldiers made their famous charge. The Negro troops of the 91" and K)^1 Negro Cavalry’ also did more than their share of nursing yellow fever patients and burying the dead. This was noted in a report from Brig. Gen. J.G. Gilmore. Fifth Army Headquarters. Santiago. Cuba. July 25, 2898. The Rough Riders and their leader. Roosevelt, earned their moment of glory during lhe storming of San Juan Hill. They also learned to respect the Negro troops, fighting with them shoulder to shoulder. Following lhe battles of San Juan and Kettle hills, the American troops were in a stalemate. They needed additional troops and more supplies. They were lacking food, combatting uncomfortable weather, and the Spanish were continuously firing pot shots. In America, the news reached Washington. D.C.. the eve of Independence Day. There were no holiday festivities that year. All picnics, parades and fireworks were canceled. But all was not lost. Col. J.F. McClernand suggested to Gen. Shafter perhaps they could put up a bluff. He suggested they demand a surrender of Santiago. After all, Spanish commander. Gen. Linares had not launched a counterattack. Under a flag of truce, lhe surrender demand was delivered lo Gen. Linares. It advised him that if the city of Santiago did not surrender by 10 a.m. Monday. July 4, it would be shelled by land and sea. Silence over lhe lines. Not a shot was fired by either side. Sea breezes cleared away the mists rising from lhe jungle, so even the weather seemed better. The battleship New Yotk with Adm. William T. Sampson arrived for his meeting with Gen. Shafter, 'lhe silence was broken w hen the booming of big naval guns form the entrance lo Santiago Harbor. This meant that the Spanish Heel, bottled up in the harbor, was attempting to break out. Fhe only Spanish ship that actually made it out of lhe harbor was the cruiser Cristobal Colon, which reached open waler. Thu Cristobal Colon headed for Havana with the Americans in pursuit. Tlie battleship Oregon finally got dose enough to destroy the Sp.uu .h cruder. Rather than have it blow n to bib. the uiptam ran t aground sonu-50 miles from Santiago. •ibis ended the Battle ol Santtago. lhe Spanish fleet was destroyed. Ihb wa.- J with one Antertcan kdk • n9 by Frederic Remington depicts the "Charge ol the Rough Riders at San Juan Hill." 'Hie Spanish suffered 323 killed and 1.813 taken prisoner. .. . Lt. Richmond I. Hobson and the Merrimac volunteers were exchanged for 20 captured officers July 6. Hobson and his men rode in an open wagon through the American outpost along the crowded road to the beach, to the chuerimi of thc soldiers. Hobson returned aboard The New York. Gen. Jose Tora! still stayed entrenched in Santiago, and the Filth Corps were still confronted by the enemy behind barlied wire. At length, Gen. foral finally gave up. and at 5 p.m. July 16. signed the articles of capitulation, and lhe Filth Corps entered Santiago. lhe Stars and Stripes were raised over Santiago City Hall. Malaria and yellow lever were epidemic. More than 5.000 men were ill at one time. Fortunately, the war in C uba was nearly over Gen. Nelson A. Miles received permission from lhe War Department July 25 to invade Puerto Rico, previously under Spanish rule and raise the United States flag. T his w as not opposed, and the Puerto Ricans greeted Americans joyfully. Because so many men were ill from malaria. Secretary’ ol War Russell Alger [former Michigan governor and for whom the U.P.’s Alger County is named) rushed to construct a camp at Montauk. Long Island, to receive the ailing Cuban Campaign veterans. This was named Camp Wikoff, and the first occupants arrived Aug. 15. 1898. But. tents and clothing were in short supply, and the food was bad. About 5J4 men had died in Cuba. Another 250 succumbed al Camp Wikoff. |One of those men who became ill at Camp Wikoff was William A. Gavit of Woodland. When he was discharged in the tall, he was sent to Ionia “with great emaciation and debility due to malarial fever” incurred in the line of duty, according to Weinbrecht’s notes. He was deemed temporarily unable to perform manual labor. Gavit married Inez Meyers in Lake Odessa in 1902, and the couple would have two children. William worked as a fur buyer and ultimately reached his 80s, dying in 1959 at age 81. The extent of his recovery is not indicated in vital records. However, for other men who Standard Encyclopedia 1958; The World Book, 1950; Michigan Public Acts 1901,223. \ (2020 sources: familysearchjorg. burry. * migenwebjorg, Jindagrave com, spanamwar. • comJ Hunter found dead in blind ' Theodore Roosevelt led the Rough Riders up San Juan Hill during the Spanish-American War. Taylor Owens Staff Writer A 60-year-old Hastings man, Bradley’ Greenfield, was found dead in his huntings blind Thursday morning. Michigan State. Police reported. *; A family member reported they had not heard from Greenfield since Sunday or*Monday, and went looking for him. \ Police said it appeared Greenfield acciden- ‘ tally shot himself as he was attempting to« remove his gun from his holster. No more details will be released until anautopsy is completed, but troopers who inves- i ligated lhe death said there was no indication of foul play. * served in that short war, lhe repercussions lingered, mentally, physically or both. Some died of diseases such as tuberculosis and others took their ow n lives - all with exposure lo malaria or typhoid fever listed as contributing factors in lheir deaths.) The volunteer troops were demobilized and sent home as rapidly as possible. The 31st Regiment. Michigan Volunteers of Detroit remained in Cuba on garrison duty. New volunteers were recruited for service in the Philippines. The 30^’ Regiment was recruited Danny Eugene Downing, Hastings and in Michigan and served under Col. Cornelius Susan Baylosis Hill. Hastings Gardener in 1899 and 1900 in the Philippines. Brian Alan Colter, Middlevilc and Sarah Many Michigan and Barry- County men served Christine Madden, Middleville as regulars in the Army and Navy. Kerri Lane Saltzgabcr. Middleville and To be continued ... Keith Lyle Wright, Cedar Darrell Lewis Duncan Jr., Nashville and Sources for this series include research by Samantha Lee Keiser, Nashville rhe late Harland and Nyla Nye; Turning Point Alison Renee Kamphuis. Caledonia and for America, Irving Wersteine; VPW, Joshua David Wolter, Middleville September 1998; Hastings Banner archives. Alexander Thomas Maurer, Hastings and 1898 and 1914; Nashville News 1898; New Alanna Nicole Townsend, Hastings Marriage licenses Leafd>Filter’ Barry Community Free Dental Clinic J ^KOTtmON NO MORE GUTTER CLEANING, OR YOUR MONEY BACK GUARANTEED! (Low income, uninsured persons over age 18) The clinic has dentists continually donating services. r 1- ♦♦Income verification required** ^4 please apply at Barry County United Way (269) 945*4010 \ / • MICHAEL KINNEY Keep fronds and relatives informed and up to date ivith all the local news from Bany County. Send them... plumbing A The Hastings BANNER Io subscribe, call us at: \\ 269-945-9554 Licensed Master Plumber Licensed Journeyman Plumber New coasmicticn. remodel, repair drain cleanmg BRADFORD WTI1TE WAI ER HEA1LRS Same Day Installation Office (269) 948-2248 Mobile (269) 838*5112—I \ V Bookkeeper fabrics WoII‘erii^“MdutS^ld?n' PLC is sacki"9 o '•ighly crience WRo y8°r? b,oolllu!0Pin9/ E°! i dotemonk lKesPons'bilihos include preparing 1C,a || orocn-' • rQCOnC'l*ation$, payroll taxes and Pa^\ronq ^ust be a team player and EO5Se?S Inc* oFCrQQf:°Uc,,‘;9. an^ communication skills. °.Accounting, QuickBooks As package. ho,pfol. Competitive salary and bench!* Pu i • Excludes Sale Items* •Ends 11-JO-20’ New collections by Moda-^ 'Pray Tor Cur Nation, OUtSTiOKsl ASK US. jd ,r®whLand Salary requiremenfs lo: E Sulf S’-. or fax 269-945-4890. k. Siiiuton. rir |f y |/ LtaBBCS • M5-D673 Hulst Cleaners Pick-Up Station______ _ S �DDA pursues new marketing strategies _ <. Sophie n Stun Witter lhe Hastings D()Wntown Development Authority approved spending an estimated $12,825 to pUrsUtf ncJ forllV. of marking geo-targeting and geo fencing—with the goal of attracting busincsscs and customers to downtown I fastings ‘T he goal of DDA markcting dollars is to generate foot traffic and increased sales for all businesses located jn the DDA district” Community Developinenl Director Dan King said during the [)fyA meeting Thursday morning. Ulis follows the ovl 18 meeting when lhe DDA decided not to renew a contract with Adams Outdoor fcr a billboard north of Caledonia. lhe DDA ha* contracted with Adams Outdoor fOr more than 10 years, but since then prices have increased, leading to an annual cost of approximately $15,000. Additionally, the billboard’5 static racS5a8e» a $150 content-change fee, lack of marketing research and absence of lighting around lhe billboard contributed to the DDA’s decision. ’’Adams never gave us [figures] regarding what was the market we were hitting with that billboard. You know, it was a static message. Universe Pressed for cider fruit to squeeze out the juice. While you may not have a basket or Julianna. 7 bladder press at home, with the help of a grownup, you can find a recipe online that uses similar steps: use small pieces of Irint. Dear Julianna. Wc can make cider with juice from press the fruit to make some juice, and pas apples. There are many different kinds of tcurize it. When wc pasteurize the juice, it helps apples and a few different ways to squeeze kill any harmful bacteria that could possi­ out rhe juice. My friend Bn Ewing Valliere told me bly make us sick. All w e have lo do is heal al! about it. She’s a food scientist at lhe juice up to at least IM) degrees Washington Stale University who knows a Fahrenheit. Finally, it’s time to enjoy the cider. lol about cider. While some cider comes from small The first step is to pick out the apples. Honeycrisp apples will make a sweet cider. farms or our kitchens, machines in factories Granny Smiths are more acidic and will also produce thousands of gallons ol juice. Valliere told me that juice processors make a tart cider. **We could make a single butch of one sometimes will add something called kind, or we could mix different kinds of enzymes lo the pressed juice. 1 he enzymes apples together and see how it turns out.” help turn the light brown,cloudy cider-look­ she said “No matter what, it's going to ing juice into lhe clear, golden liquid we know as apple juice. taste good.” A big part of the reason we have apple It’s important to wash the apples to remove any diit or bacteria. Next, it’s time juice and apple cider is also because of the hardworking farmers and farmworkers w ho to squeeze out (he juice. “It’s not like oranges or gra|)es where lake care of our apple orchards. 1 he next time you dike a sip of cider, you can just squeeze them and the juice comes out.” Valliere said. “We need to get think of all the people vlho helped make it and all the science in your cup. the apples into smaller pieces.” After a grown-up helps cut the apples Dr. Universe into quarters, the slices can go into a juice press. One kind of press is a basket press, Are you curious to leant more about which is like a small band with a device to grind up apples. A wooden plate goes how basket presses work? Check out this inside the barrel on top of lhe ground-up video from the Cedar Creek Grist Mill. This historical mill in Woodland. Wash, is apples. As we push down on lhe wooden plate, the force squeezes the juice from the listed on the National Register of Historic Places. i https://www .youtube.com/ fruit. Tire juice flows out the bottom of the walch?v=SXTHbuhDAGQ&fea(urc=einb_ press, which works a bit like a pasta strain­ titleA:ab„channcl-ClarkCounly! ixlay) er. It separates the apple solids from lhe Do you have a ifuesiion'.’ Ask Dr. liquids. As the juice flows from the press, we can catch it in a jug or bucket. Universe. Send an email to Washington Valliere said another kind of press is State University's resident scientist and called a bladder press, which has a bal­ writer at Dr.Universc<& wsu.edu or visit her loon-like device that pushes against the website, askdruniverse.com. Dr. Lnhrw A/ow do you make cider* ___ • . USC Ol ___ -kuinp increasing use . the marketing and the content became stale.” King said. communication devices tablhh' target areas and The DDA has spent the past several months to es reviewing other marketing options and opportunities demographic profijA was an Platforms and at the Oct. 29 meeting elected customers to our Haslinj advantage of ” fo pursue marketing through Outfront Media, option the DDA wanted o • • • . in<, will an outdoor business and marketing company PT),c geo-targeting ( " ^emkr of based in New York City. only be done between April •>"*) “They fOutfront Medial are one of the to lower costs. leading providers in Michigan here on this 2021 In other news, the DDA boa'* in.,„nefic side of the state,” King said. .ApptovedthepurclKLseof MW’t Alter a discussion with Tracy Wink, an calendars with the Hastings City I Outfnmt Media representative, the DDA $650. Calendars will be distnbutc settled on spending $6,825 lor 13 four-wcek periods of billboard advertising. The local business and events. . Canceled its meeting scheduledI f remaining $6,(MX) will be spent on six months 17. Chairwoman Patty Woods no c y “targeting and geo-fencing — a new December meeting has —nus^Ken a dition to the DDA’s marketing and canceled in past years and. if an advertising arsenal. Geo-targeting is the method of using a is needed before January, an emergency rent for the we site user’s geographical location to match meeting can be called. • Approved an expenditure of ,. icm to content or advertisements to which they may lx- receptive; a geo-fence is a virtual purchase of 110 three-hour parking deutf perimeter for real world locations, which various sizes to be placed on P^’"^ J ,, • Approved S1.103 to upgtade the controlk uetermines target areas based on ZIP code and demographics. and software of an electronic sign oi I’he DDA has utilized billboard advertising State Street at (he Cook Road mtcrsect.om as a large percentage of lhe marketing budget The upgrade will allow more staff to acces.. tor many years.” King said. “With the lhe signs’ content and scheduling. Snapshot of reasons to be thankful Several local people (with a little entice­ ment) responded to a request asking what makes (hem thankful this year, llteir respons­ es, and some accompanying photos, helped fill Saturday’s Reminder. While “my family” may have been the most anticipated answer, readers’ responses even on that most basic aspect of human nature - were surprisingly varied. Here arc extracts from their thankful replies. To see full responses, identities, pho­ tos and more, check the Nov. 21 Reminder. Reasons to be thankful... ... for our teachers. Every day we arc truly thankful for them. ... for many small things: a text from my granddaughter, a call from a friend, my health during this pandemic... ... for a harvest that is complete ... for firewood to cut. and for a farmer who can fix anything. • •to be here in Barrj County this holiday season. 3 ... For what am 1 thankful? Girlfriends. . • • • to have a family who has embraced their lime together - despite this season of misfor­ tune imd disappointment - and has discovered new skills, talents, interests ... ... to know that the lifestyle 1 have current­ ly adapted to is not permanent. ... for penguins, my family, and Jesus. ... that my grandchildren learned to enter­ tain themselves by playing with nature. ... for the support of my family. NQLGK.OEOHDJNANGEADOEDON TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP, B A R R Y I COUNTY, MICHIGAN AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS; PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following is a summary of an Ordinance adopted by the il Township Board of Baltimore Township at a meeting held on November 10, 2020 ORDJ^Q2(hB-lL-2Q2Q__OBDlNANCLTOJ\MEND. BEGBEAI1ONAL(AD.ULT„USE).MARIHUANA_ESTABLISHMENT_.OBD1NANCE SECTION L TITLE The Ordinance's title is the Baltimore Township Recreational (Adult Use) I Manhuana Establishment Ordinance. SEGDQNJJ. EUBEO-SE The purpose of lhe ordinance is to protect the public health, safety and I welfare, provide regulations for adult use marihuana establishments and to provide licensing I regulations and lees. SECIIONJ!! DEFINITIONS. This section references definitions per Initialed Law 1 of 2018, as may be amended. SEGIlONJy. .RECREAI10^AL_lArMIJJSE)A*ABJHVANA_ESIABLlSHMENIS. This section authorizes the establishment and operation in the Township of not mere than 8 growers (not exceeding mere than 40 licenses in total), not more than 4 processors, not more than 3 manhuana retailers, not more than 5 microbusinesses, not more than 2 secure transporters, not more than 5 excess growers upon proper licensing and approvals. This section allows zero (0) safety compliance establishments, zero (0) designated consumption establishments, zero (0) marihuana event organizers andtor zero (0) temporary marihuana events in the Township. SECTION V, AF^REAJjQNM.LADUkTJJSE)AWlHUANA^TABllSHMENUtCEN.SES, This I section provides the Township’s authonzation and licensing process. SECTIONAL LJCENSEfAALUALiQN-CBIIEBIA This section provides the criteria for determining which applicants are best suited to operate a recreational (adult use) manhuana establishment in Baltimore Township I ^CTipN.yiUGENEfiAl.BEGUATJOASJ?EGAJBD)NGAUIHOB!ZE!HiECBE/ffl.QNALlAD.UlI This section requires state licensure, compliance with all i applicable ordinances, inspection regulations, includes hours of operation and location requirements and includes inspection rights. $EGWN_y_!!J ANNUAL.fACJUJX.fFE* This section establishes an annual fee to defray administrative and enforcement costs associated with licensed recreational (adult use) marihuana facilities, which fee shall be renewable SfQTJpNJX- NDABENEY/AUSUSEENS10.NJ3EV.QCAT10N, APPEALS. This section includes license is not a vested right, each license is exclusive, process for revocation, suspension or refusal to renew a 1 cense and an appeal process SECTION X VIOL ATJQ11 .AND. PENALTIES. This section details violations of the Ordinance, provides that a violation is a nuisance per se and a municipal civil infraction and provides penalties. SECTION X! SEGTIONA!*- SEVEBABIUIX The provisions of this Ordinance are severable BEEEAL- This section provides that all ordinances cr parts of ordinances in conflict with in s Ordinance are repealed SECTION XJK EEFECT.IVE.DATE This Ordinance shall take effect upon publication after adoption PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the full text of the Ord nance lias been posted in the office of ths Baltimore Townsh’p Clerk at the address set forth below and that copies ol this Ordinance may be purchaser! or inspected at lhe office of the Baltimore Township Clerk during regular business hours of regular working days foltowing tne date of this publication Penetope Ypma. Clerk BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP 3100 E Dowling Road, Hastings. Ml 49058 (269) 721 -3502 Tito redemption period ^11 be 6 months from too date of such 5^»Sss determined aban­ doned in accordance w.’th mCL 600 3241a. or. if the subject real property u.Xr 39**^ W05' es as defined by MCL 600"3240(16) 11 toe property is S(Z°^o^ro sale under Chapter 32 of tho Rn 'U .nratuie Ad of ,961> pursuant to MCL 600 3/70 tho borrc*ar wiH bo he,d responsible to thePfOp0ft* al the mortgage fore^^Ia or to the mortgage holder (0, damag.^ ^opcrty d-ng !bo Ie- domption period Attention homeown^ ■< 1 are a to'^^Y service member on active u , yCJ ™.nod of activo duty has concluded less^' 'f y0Uf of 11 you hav0 boon ordered to “ d^3se <#",acl ■o-noy to. tho party tvtophone number stai£ „„ r^e «the n^ DJhls".from a d0bt TtobU^ 31440 Northwestern hv v Au'W Farmington Hills. Ml 1^642-2515 *334 ... each and ever}’ day, for the natural resources that surround us here. 151499 ... for those who make us laugh. ... to have the opportunity to collaborate with so many fine organizations, businesses, individuals, residents and staff. ... for adult children and neighbors who check on my welfare. ... for all those people on the “front lines.” ... to work with outstanding educators and staff every day. » ... for the ability to talk with friends and family, especially during the pandemic. ... for the simple things. ... I am most thankful for my wife, Anne. ... that 1 can still say I am feeling hopeful. ... that Dad spent the last three months of Financial FOCUS Provided by the Barry County offices of Edward Jones Brandon Wilkins Member SIPC —’Kevin Beck, AAMS® 400 W. State St, Suite B Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-4702 307 E Green St, Ste. 1 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-2003 Financial moves for the recently divorced Divorce is common in our society, but that doesn't make it any easier to navigate. If you’ve recently finalized a divorce, you’ve likely been coping with uncertainly and tension, but you can still avoid turning an already difficult situation into one that’s even more challeng­ ing. How? By making the right financial and investment moves, including the following: • Establish your separate financial presence. Even when you were married, you and your spouse might have maintained some separate accounts. But if you only had joint accounts, now is lhe time to open your own checking, savings and credit accounts. • Update your budget. Il’s likely your budget needs up­ dating. Your household income may be lower or may need to be adjusted for alimony or child support (paid or received). Ad­ ditionally. your living expenses may have shifted, cither higher because y ou’re no longer split­ ting expenses such as housing or utilities, or possibly lower because you’re no longer sup­ porting your ex’s spending habits. Understanding your new budget will help you fed better informed about your financials options and more in control of your new >itualion. • 1425393 ... to all who arc taking this pandemic seri­ ously. ... for the people who surround my friend with love and care on his joumej. ... for staff and parents who work together to meet students' needs - no matter what. Notice ol Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA236, MCL600 3212, that the following mortgag? wil bo foreclosed by a sale cf the mortgaged premises, or some pari of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder lor cash or cashier's check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starling prompt­ ly at 1 00 PM. on January 14. 2021. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and clear ownership o! the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Ronald J. Hermemtt and Ruby M. Henmenitt, husband and wife Original Mortgagee: Ditech Financial LLC FKA Green Tree Servicing LLC F/K/A CONSECO FI­ NANCE SERVICING CORP Foreclosing Assignee (if any) U S Bank National Association, as Trustee, for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior/Subordmate Pass-Through Certifi­ cate Trust 2000-5 Data of Mortgage: June 13. 2000 Date of Mortgage Recording: Juns 21. 2000 Amount daimed due on date of notice: $86.581 01 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Orangeville. Barry County. Michi­ gan, and described as: That Part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 20. Town 2 North, Range 10 West, described as* Commencing at the Northeast corner of said Section; thence South 89 degrees 59 min­ utes West 1009.17 foe, along too North line of said Northeast 1/4 to the Centerline of Dndsoy road; thence South 08 degr0GS 17 mmutes 30 seconds West 33 35 feet along Saicj centedtoe to the place of beginning; ihonCe NOrth 89 degrees 59 minutes East 233 00 feet, thCnco South 09 degrees 17 min­ utes 30 seconds West 220 00 feet, toence South 89 degrees 59 minutes We-t 233 00 feet; thence North 08 degrees 17 m.nutos 30 seconds East 220.0 feet along said Centerline to the D'ace of beginning. Common street address (if 11224 R°na!d Ln. Delton. Ml 490^77" 1 ... for the good people who have faithfully supported this community throughout the pandemic. ... I am beyond thrilled that they were allowed to play football. ... for lhe stray tom cat I am feeding. I ... for the technology we have today (which I have a love/hatc relationship with). ... for every single day my children arc able to get on that bus and go to school. ... for a chance to get back to some of my many interests: growing food, rustic camping, horseback riding, hiking ... «'i*r ... for all the extraordinary people who make up our public safety services. ... that we both have our own areas of retreat within our home. ...for the relationship I have with my twin boys’ dad and his wife. BALTIMORE TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN his life with his beloved wife of 70 years by his side. ‘; Prioritize emergency savings. Divorce is expensive and may have depicted your savings. To get back on your feeL you may want (0 build an easily accessible source of funds for unexpected drops in income and’or spikes in ex­ penses. If you’re not retired, you may want to keep three to six months’ worth of expenses in emergency savings, although even much smaller amounts can boost your feelings of financial security. • Evaluate your retirement plan contributions. When you were married, you may have been counting on sharing re­ sources and expenses with your spouse in retirement. But now; you may be solely responsible for your retirement, so if you can afford it, you may want to rump up your retirement plan contributions. You may want to consult a financial professional about setting and achicv ing new goals. • Think about Social Secu­ rity. Your divorce could play a rule in the benefits you can re­ ceive. Once you are eligible for benefits, if you w ere married at least 10 years and you haven’t remarried, you might be able to receive up to 50% of your exspousc s benefits, offset by your own benefit. If your ex passes away and you haven’t remarried (or you remarry only alter age 60), you could receive 100% of their benefit in place of your own. This could be beneficial if your ex-spouse had a higher income or spent longer in the labor force. Since rules can be complicated, contact y our local Social Security office to better understand your situation, and keep a record of your ex's So­ cial Security number. • Review your beneficiary' designations and legal doc­ uments, You’ll likely need to revise thc beneficiary des/ ignations on your retirement accounts and life insurants policies. These designations cany a lot of weight and can even supersede lhe instructions in your will. And, speaking ofyour will, yOu H |lkdy revise it too. along with other legal documents, such as a liv. ing trust. Consult with your le­ gal professional to make these rev isions. It can feel like a long road to stability arter a divorce but by following the above sugges­ tions. you may be able to nuLe the trip a little less bumpy ~ and hopefully shorter-as well. Ihis arucle was written by Edward Jones for use by >OUI. h>cal Lhurd Jones Financial Advisor. ' EdwardJanest Member SIPC �The Hastings Banner — Thursday, November 26, 2020 --- Page 3 School counts down; COVID seen as primary reason lavirir Owens fu.. ^ylor c . . . . Writer School districts across the ing a drop in their student ennm* repo’1' fall count this year. ailment after thc Before COVID-19 ru Schools h»d projected’. Ke"^ Instead, the district lost , 00 'htdents. * ,0,»* of 3-l5». acconiin., to n?‘'' *° rcpon number recently submitted L Unaudile<l Department of Education ° lh° MichiFa» “I would attribute nearlv th • 2J71 Superintendent Dan d . th,S ycar‘ number is actually good -a’d thal year’s number is slidX i"?’ sincc lhis .WdcTirs thi. rali£dOxvn MM “We develoDed " ,TOm 1-*83 last year. projec<ed.- Superimpose Cork"said" “We have actually a very !a^e kinde“n ' class that about one thin! of lhe students are school of choice, so wc re doing a g<xxl job attracting new families. “However, we did lose over 20 students who chose to homeschool ot enrolled in an online school as a rcqwn<c lo COVID, and we only have one foreign exchange student ns opjx)sed to die 12 we normally have,” Corlctl added. Maple Valley Schools reported 938.49 stu­ dents during its fall count, down from 960 last year. Superintendent Katherine Bertolini said she attributes much of the loss to COVID-19, but thc exact number is hard to determine. “Michigan is a state that does not require parents to register homeschooling options for their children,” Bertolini said. “As a result of that, we who are trying to find and track these students are not able to determine who is being homeschooled and who is being non­ schooled. “This is a problem statewide, well beyond the borders of Maple Valley.” Thomapple Kellogg has been able to track some of their numbers. “Concern over the health implications of ^.-IldoiK I..— the virus had >"" enrollment liinneir children rettmed?notw.mtmytof ^j^mhotne Rulln8 ">« v‘<h7's ’ ( 1 ’ Vrdin'" fro*« kin1'' ’ ° lI,cm arc beine 20IQ’s count. remaining 11 , . '*L •homescho..led. . J..I Ik ’program "t„lh11„ students |h chose to do •»»' ’ ^-hool district “ one provided by |jK< (o see students leave “While we ,H . 1,4,“in this case v . 1 rhe district." Iu‘ f ||rcnl didn’t chwJanmh. .. er district. 1 neo • "m Ch. ''il1 "Ie ho,d °n v mis. Mcl ar .(|,e dls,ri(.t,s ‘■‘XhXd." >> paM 5prin«pi"« > . he deve|oprnl- taking place much of idi he sard. "New home throughout . t|lctc are lnany wi(hln construction,. ric$. slowed considerably, the village x «J- d.,|cs back whid) > pushing com|>k (lf lh(. homcs bK(. turn, pushed tne • 1 .1. <rudefl‘ representing $8.111 in W,'r Tnc lhe in enr°Hnicnt will stale funding. int affect districts’ bottom lines. The state, how­ ever. r<xik steps to keep thc drop from hilling schools i<m) hard. I his year. 75 percent of a district's per pu­ pil funding will lx: determined by last year's count number, while only 25 percent will lx* based off this year’s count. It’s still a hit for school district budgets, but not as much as it could have been. We will sec a slight decline in stale fund­ ing.” Corlett said. lhe state 75 percent and 25 percent blend­ ing of school year pupil counts results in a Tn ud pupil ,oss’” McCarthy said. “This will have a reduced negative impact on lhe district s annual budget.” I his year also presented its own challenges lor taking the student count, In anormal year, the slate has a couni day. in wh)ch student attendance determines thc Th H1 s. en,°1Irncnt in ,he c>cs of thc state. . 11 schools can update their numbers if siuseh<x>|Wh<> WCtC ,h“' day re,urn lo n pupil count a whole " challenge." McCarthy said. “Not only did «e need to complete the normal process for students that arc enrolled m person, wc also needed to account for students that may have been quarantined due to exposure to someone with the virus. In addition, wc also had to account for thc students who chose to attend schtxjl virtually this year.” “Accounting for virtual and quarantined students meant wc needed to document two, two-way communications with each student, he said. “The communication could have been completed through email, by phone or through a home visit. This added a layer ol complexi­ ty. increasing lhe difficulty of completing the process.” Administrators say they hope the numbers will even out alter the pandemic is over. "We are not sure thc exact number of stu­ dents who we lost because ol homeschooling or COVID-19. and I do believe we will have kids return when things get back to normal a little bit.” Remenap said. “I am betting there is going to be a more concerted effort post coronavirus to rind where all the children have gone,” Bertolini added. "In large urban districts, thc absence of children is in lhe thousands. “It is a significant problem.” Enrollment drops due to COVID-19 Bridge Magazine Kristen Seguin rented a petting zoo lo come to her Pinckney home in Livingston County in October. There were ponies to ride, goats to pet and chickens to chase. In the middle of lhe chaos were 15 masked, school-age children. AH were students in public schools last year. This fall, they all left classrooms and are now being home-schooled because of con­ cerns about the pandemic. Thousands of Michigan children who were in classrooms last school year are not enrolled in school now, according to estimates from school officials around the slate. Some dis­ tricts experienced enrollment declines of 1 percent lo 25 percent. Official state data on school district enroll­ ment won’t be tabulated and released until spring. But school leaders who’ve spoken to superintendents across the state say they believe there could be more than 10,000 Michigan children missing from public school classrooms this school year who were in class in March, when school buildings were closed to try to stop the spread of the coronavirus. “I’m hearing about losses across the state,” said Randy Liepa, superintendent of Wayne Regional Educational Service Agency, which provides services to Wayne County school districts. Liepa said enrollment is down at most Wayne County districts. ‘‘[Families] may be biding their time till they can come back” after the pandemic. School officials expressed concern about how well students will readjust to a state-man­ dated curriculum when those students return to classrooms next year. A bigger question may be, will they return at all? The Newland family of Midland, who have two elementary-age boys they pulled from public school in September because of the pandemic, said their boys “they think they want to be home-schooled next year” as well, according to Janae Newland. “I’m glad we made the decision to do it.” School officials anticipated some decline in enrollment this fall because of the pandemic. Some families worried about safely, and oth­ ers were unhappy with the quality of remote learning they’d experienced the final two months of the 2019-20 school year. The Legislature and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer enacted a one-time tweak in the school funding formula so that schools, which receive most of their state dollars based on the number of students in their building, wouldn’t face a large budget shortfall. For this school year, 75 percent of funding to school districts is based on last year’s enrollment, and only 25 percent on current enrollment. Still, declines are large and widespread enough lo concern school leaders. In Kent County, 16 of 20 districts saw enrollment declines, according to Kent ISD’s Ron Koehler. In Wayne County, the majority of districts are down, according to Wayne RESA’s Liepa. In Ingham County, where lensing is locat­ ed, Ingham Intermediate School District Superintendent Jason Mellcma said prelimi­ nary figures show enrollment is “down sig­ nificantly” in the county’s school districts, likely more than 2 percent (about 1,000 stu­ dents across the counly). Novi Community School District in Oakland Counly is down about 1.5 percent, or about 100 students. “There are a number of kids that seem to be missing from the system right now," said Robert McCann, executive director of the K-12 Alliance of Michigan, an organization that advocates for public schools. "It’s not kids are moving from one district to another, because we’re not seeing increases in neigh­ boring districts.” L’Anse Creuse Public Schools in Macomb County conducted an audit of lhe 250 students who didn't enroll in the district this year who were expected. "We are open to in-person learning - that’s what our community wanted.” said L’AnseCreuse Superintendent Erik Edoff. "We have an option for parents who want online leant ing. “Even with thal, we saw a number of stu­ dent families that have opted out of school this year, particularly students in younger grades K-2.” said Edoff, whose district enroll­ ment is down about 2.5 percent. "A huge majority of students arc waiting to see what happens with thc pandemic. They’re trying home school and they’ll see what hap­ pens." Wanda Cook-Robinson, superintendent of Oakland Schools, which provides .services for Oakland County’s traditional school districts, said there is "a big push lo find Ml As - we know students are missing and we are trying to figure out what is happening with their education.” One large group not in classrooms this year kindergartners. Cook-Robinson said some families are delaying kindergarten - in effect, pushing back the start of 13 years of school until a vaccine is developed and distributed. ‘When you think of a kindergartner, and their first experience being virtual, parents Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 DifiUl Tv Autennas C«U PhoM Bcostwa 2Bfl.B87.8241 , AX’-NM ,AI** R IL PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All rwl outc iJveruiirS I" MlK>nd cr.pn. ' an InttnUon. prrfrrt!KC. I.miouon hunJid jiatut |uch ” ;'' c ‘ lU W« l« cuitxlianK pep’-1*1 । , ..At, |K R.u oewiJMper «*• ‘ accept ary ■'r< ,‘ which b io viulM.on o'Jhr 1 rtatkn are herela "‘f M 1- Garage Sate MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. HEATED BLACK FRIDAY Garage Sale- Fri. & Sat., Nov 27th, 28th, 2020. 9,un-5pm' No Early Sales’ 200 Penny Ave., Hastings. Misc. items must sell all! BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip S'*’1..!0/ pricing. Wi» buy single Wal­ nut tret-.s. In.urwl, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley l-ogging, (209)HlH-77->l _ BELLS CONSTRUCTriON18 years experience- Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements, power washing. 269-320-3890. H CARRON SPORT AIR 1 lock. ey Table. $3(X).(K) OBO. Phone 269-908-165-1. LEGAL NOTICES 74 CITY OF HASTINGS PUBLIC NOTICE ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 592 The undersigned, being the duly qualified and acting Clerk of the City of Hastings, Michigan, does hereby certify that ORDINANCE NO. 592: amendment to Section 90-553 to allow Commercial Kennels as a special use in the D-1 Industrial District. was adopted by the City Council of the City of Hastings at a regular meeting on the 23rd of November, 2020. A complete copy of this Ordinance is available for review at the office of the City Clerk at City Hall, 201 East State Street, Hastings. Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Notice of Branch Merger Application Notice is hereby given that Mercantile Bank of M,c=hl9an- 3'0 Leonard, NW, Grand Rapids, Ml 49504 has filed an appheafion with the FDIC to sell the Mercantile Bank Hastings Branch located at .500 W M 43 H», Has’rgs. Ml 49055 lo Late Tros. Cred« Un»n. 4605 S Old US Hwy 23. Brighton, Ml 48114. Synopsis Hope Township Popular Board mooting Nov-O.202® Meeting opened at Approve^: Consent agenda Trustee appointment A tn comment on this application may file his or Any person wishing to commen her comments miwrH ng with^ h^ g Deposit Insurance Plaza, Suite 170 , 2020. The noncxi_ e' d,n9 11/20/2020 Insurance icnewal Library Board appo*0^0 the appropnate Webmaster pay . Guernsey Lake weed treatment ptan202t Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads Counly, and would have had two kids attend­ “There’s a financial issue with this [for the ing Chelsea Public Schools this fall. She districts], but more importantly, it’s difficult understands the need for COVID safety pre­ for students [in home-school] to stay on pace, cautions in classrooms, but she “couldn’t even with our current learning model.” L’Anse justify pulling my kindergartner and first-grad­ Creusc’s Edoff said. “For children not in a er in masks for eight hours a day. structured environment. I’m very concerned “My kids, when they wear a mask for two about the long-term impact.” hours, it’s soaked.” Stoll said. “It’s humanly Added Cook-Robinson of Oakland ISD: impossible at their ages to not put things in “1 his is such an unprecedented time, I suspect their mouths.” we’ll have to figure out a plan for how to Stoll said she didn’t want some of her kids’ bring all our students back" to grade level first impressions of school to be socially dis­ when they return to classrooms. tanced from classmates and wearing masks. Studies are mixed on the educational out­ "My kindergartner should have a great first comes of home schooling. One study found year,” she said. “My first-grader, she should that home-schoolers with a structured aca­ be able lo go and enjoy and not have to worry demic program achieve at higher levels than about all these things in the outside world.” those in public school, but those without Stoll enrolled her children at Michigan structured learning pregrams fall behind. Virtual Charter Academy, part of Hazel Park Several families said they hadn’t planned to Schools in Oakland Counly, an experience home-school before the pandemic, but now she says has been “awesome - they provide are considering continuing home learning everything for you, including a laptop and a even after a vaccine is developed. printer.” "My husband and I really kind of enjoyed Kristen Seguin has a 10-year-old and a having a hands-on learning experience writh 14-year-old who always attended public our kids,” said Stoll, of Grass Lake. schools, but arc being home-schooled this Three months into her home-school exper­ year in thc pandemic. Seguin said she worried iment. Seguin has mixed feelings. Her about her kids’ safety in classrooms, and was 10-ycar-old has special needs and appreciates unimpressed with the online offerings the services a state-funded school can offer. Pinckney Community Schools offered in the “He’ll return when a vaccine makes it safe to spring, when schools were forced to turn their return.” Seguin said. “I doubt my J4-year-old learning systems upside down in a matter of ever goes back.” days. "Il’s tricky - strong public schools lead to a “They miss their friends from school, [but] strong community.” Seguin said. “I know I we have several families engaging in safe certainly depend on them for my 10-yearactivity. We do things [together] regularly." old.” But she said some families are coming Those families, too. were in public schools to appreciate "the flexibility and opportunities you don’t get in traditional school. last year. "It’s going to be an interesting few years, r Some school leaders expressed concern about the long-term educational impact of for sure.” students leaving public schools this year. Jane M. Saurman City Clerk KASSON 10FT OAK POoj Table, excellent condition $1,000.00 or OBO. 269-90^ 1654_________________ on -tJ || e said. . ... One example is >n Public Schools. There, enrollment is <ioun 2.5 percent, or about 300 students, according to Troy Superintendent Richatxi Machesky. Of those 300, about half the enrollment drop is among expected kindergartners. That matches a pattern found by The Mackinac Center, which surveyed large Michigan districts and found, as of mid-Sep­ tember. kindergarten enrollment was down an average of 17 percent. There’s no discernable pattern for other students who aren’t enrolled this year, school officials say. Aversion to online classes Two of the state’s “missing” children are in thc Newland family in Midland. Janae Newland has boys who would have been in second and fourth grades in Midland Public Schools this fall. Instead..she and her husband pulled them from school, ordered curriculum materials online and set up a home school in the family’s dining room. “Last spring, when schools switched to virtual learning after Michigan school build­ ings were closed, ^ew4«nd said her boys ’’hated” the online classed "My {current] fourth-grader, hc had a math worksheet, he had to draw the answers on the screen and download it. It was so cumber­ some,” Newman said. “We knew lhe virtual option wasn’t for usf iMidland offered students an option this fall of attending classes in person. “I knew they were taking a lol of precau­ tions. kids in masks and plexiglass screens.” Newman said. "My younger son (now in sec­ ond grade) is really high-energy,and 1 thought this is just going to be miserable for him. with very little hands-on experience and gym would be difficult, not to mention the possible exposure to COVID. “It seemed like the perfect opportunity to just keep them at home and have them be able to run and be outside and do science experi­ ments.” Newland is a former teacher, but admits home schooling isn’t easy even for her. Through research online, she found home­ school curriculum that aligns with the curric­ ulum in Michigan schools so they will be on the same path ns their public school class­ mates when and if they return. “You could mess it »P if you don’t do a little research.” Newland said. “But there is curriculum out there.’ _ “We’re early on *n ^goring out how to make this work for u>.” she said. “It’s not a cakewalk; you’re dealing with strengths and weaknesses and two different grades. You’re sort of ping-ponging between kids.” Katie Stoll lives in Grass Lake in Jackson rar Sale \ ait a»*,Ubie on an e» utl The HUD iSc hearing >n ’ Husiness Services may be holding then! hack.” Cook-Robinson . |L60606 not later than December 14, ’ ortjOns of the application are on file at offjcoPand are available for public inspection P hours. photocopies of the nonconfidential portion of9the application file will be made available upon request. Adjourned at 646 P’n SubfViUeu by; Dulxwah j.icli>on. Cw^ Published: November 12. 2020 l.-HJSZl Attested to by S. Fetopaus. Supper 151347 �Four state finalists among county’s top female runners i ———■■ —, .' ... - Brett Bremer Sports Editor ‘ The Thomapple Kellogg vanity girls’ enws country team continued its dominance o Barry County, winning the Barry County Meet at Lakewood High School with just points at the end of thc fall season. Thc TK team put six girls among the top l at lhe race. The top seven girls earned al the meet earned first team All-Bany County hon.ore with the next seven earning spots on the all-county second team. The Trojans were fourth m the OK Gold Conference, and narrow ly missed out on qual­ ifying for lhe Division 2 Lower Peninsula Cross Country Finals as a team. A pre-regional round was added to the state tournament this fall, io aid in social distancing, and every team in the county had at least one runner advance through to the regional round of lhe state tournament w ith four girls qualifying for thc state finals as individuals. Thc Lakewood ladies edged Delton Kellogg by a point for the runner-up spot behind lhe TK Indies at the county meet on their home course. The Lakewood ladies in lhe Greater Lansing Activities Conference, the Delton Kellogg girls in lhe Southwestern Athletic Conference and the Hastings girls in the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference all finished in the middle of lhe pack in their respective conferences as well. Here arc thc 2020 All-Barry Counly Girls’ Cross Country First and Second Teams. All-Barry County Girls’ Cross Country First Team Katie Acker, Lakewood: A senior. Acker ran lhe fastest race of her varsity career al the Division 2 Regional hooted by DeWitt on Halloween. She broke the 20-minute mark for the first lime by hitting the finish line in 19 minutes 59.0 seconds. That race earned her a spot in lhe Division 2 Lower Peninsula Cross Country Finals for lhe first time where she placed 71st overall. Acker was the runner-up at lhe Barry County Meet at lhe end of lhe season with a time of 20:30.98 on the course at Lakewood High School, and took a victory on her home course ai the Oct. 3 Lakewood Invitational. Aubrey Aukerman. Delton Kellogg: /X junior in her second season of varsity cross country, Aukerman peaked at the end of the season. She set a new personal record with her sixth-place time of 21:10.4. Thai race was the third time she set a new personal record during her junior campaign. She did it first at lhe SAC Championship FteWitt on Halloween, placing 13th to earn eninsUla Finals where she placed 176th overall. Madison Nagel. Thomapple Kellogg: One of Mur Thomapple Kellogg sophomores lo cam all-county honors, Nagel plated ninth at lhe Barry County Meet in 21.4-I-*Nagel finished as high as 20th m an OK Gold Conference race this fall and cappe her season by running her best time of the 5™he Division 2 Regional in Otsego Aubrey Aukerman where she earned a I5th-placc finish and then again al lhe Division 3 Regional race in Allendale. Jessica Durkee, Thomapple Kellogg: After back-to-back runner-up finishes at the Barry County Meet in her first two varsity seasons Durkee got to the head of the pack as a junior winning the race in 20:60.4. Durkee qualified for the Division 2 Ixnver Peninsula State Finals for the second time this fall, finishing her junior season with a 66ih-place time at MIS. Durkee ran her fastest race of the season to qualify for the state finals, placing 13th al the Division 2 Regional race hosted by Otsego Oct. 31 where lhe fin­ ished in 19:50.4. Emelia MacDonald. Thomapple Kellogg: MacDonald stormed to the front of thc pack for the Trojans as a sophomore this fall after an injuiy shortened freshman season. She set a new personal record with her time of 19:49.5 al the Division 2 Regional in Otsego on Halloween, placing 12th and earning a spot in the Division 2 Lower Peninsula Finals. MacDonald placed 41st in the girls' race at the D2 Finals. 11 spots shy of the last of the Jessica Durkee state medalists. She was the fifth-place finish­ er al the Barry County Meet with a time of 21:09.6. Carissa Strouse, Hastings: Strouse, a state qualifier and the county champion as a soph­ omore. closed oui her junior season with a seventh-place time of 21'18.7 al lhe Barry County Meet this fall. Strouse opened lhe season with a victory at the I^ikewood Invitational Sept. 2. and was a runner-up at a second Lakewood Invitational in October. She advanced through the new pre-regional round of the state tournament to run in the Division 2 Regional race at Otsego at the end of October where she placed 24th in 20:32.2. Lucy Van Demark.Thomapple Kellogg: ?\ sophomore. VanDemfk ran her fastest varsi­ ty race yet at lhe //rM OK Gold Conference jamboree of lhe season at South Christian High School in early September. She placed ninth in 20:56X1. That was one of six top ten finishes for VanDemark on the season. She placed fourth at the Barry Counly Meet in 21:025. Holl) Veiling, Thomapple Kellogg: I’he Carissa Strouse Trojans’ freshman Veiling had her fastest race and her best placing in thc final two races of the season this fall - the team's Division 2 Regional race and thc Barry County Meet. Veiling set her persona) record nt 20:10.3 with an 18th-plaee finish at the regional in Otsego She was third al the Barry County Meet with a time of 20:48.9. All-Barry County Girls’ Cross Country Second Team Emily Apsey, Lakewood: A senior, Apsey closed out her varsity cross country career by running her fastest race of lhe fall on her home course at luikcwood High School at the Barry County Meet where she placed 13th in 22:17.7. Apsey placed 21st at the GLAC Championship this fall and had four top ten finishes on the season, ........ , , ,r„.. Lilly Faurot, Maple Valley: One of Barry County's fastest freshmen, Faurot placed 14lh at the Barry County Meet with a time of 22:41.27. She was Maple Valley’s leader throughout the fall. Faurot set her personal record lime of 21:072 at the Division 3 Regional race hosted where she placed 37th with a lime of 21.33 Malena Phillips. Delton Kellogg, lhe Delton Kellogg junior set a new personal record on the course at Lake wood High School with her eighth-place time of 21.21.6 at lhe Barry County Meet. Phillips bested lhe 22-minute mark three times this fall, also accomplishing that feat with an 18th-place time al the SACChampionship and at thc Division 3 Regional race in Allendale where she was 28th in 21:31.0. u Allison Teed, Hastings: Teed placed 12th at the Barry County Meet in 22:10.5 to close out her junior season. Teed was 13th at her pre-regional race, earning a spot in the regional round of thc Division 2 stale competition where she placed 38th nt the race in Otsego on Halloween. Teed ran the fastest race of her varsity career to date at lhe Interstatc-8 Athletic Conference Championship where she finished 15th in 20:33.1. Lindsey Veiling, Thomapple Kellogg: A sophomore, Veiling finished in less than 22 minutes for the second lime in her two-year varsity running career at the Barry’ County Meet. Her time of 21:51.3 put her in tenth place overall. Veiling slowly cut her times by a minute over the final month of lhe season. She nearly broke that 22-minute mark at her team's Division 2 Regional race in Otsego where she was 46th overall in 22:003. Aura Wahl-Piotrowski, Hastings: WahlPiotroswki set a new personal record with her time of 21:33.0 which put her in 24lh place at the Intcstate-8 Athletic Conference Championship at Turkeyville in October. Wah^Pio/rpw^ki.^^s Ihh at lhe Barry County Meet with a time of 21:58.1, her besi county meet finish ever and her first all-coun­ ty performance. She was 54lh as a freshman and moved up to place 19th as a sophomore and 17th as a junior. TK singles players aO among first team honorees again Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Thomapple Kellogg varsity boys’ ten­ nis team made it into the lop four tournament of the OK Gold Conference at the end of the season, and die Lakewood and Hastings varsi­ ty boys’ tennis teams kept building during lhe fall of 2020. Thc four TK singles players were all first team All-Barry County honorees in the fall of 2019 and fill spots again in 2020, with all fourth having the chance lo return for their senior seasons next fall. The Trojans bested the other two Barry County varsity tennis teams this season, Hastings and Lakewood. I'he Saxons and Vikings finished their non-conferencc dual in a 4-4 tie with thc Saxons taking forfeit wins at third and fourth doubles against the Vikings’ .short-handed line-up. ■ While the Lakewood boys’ tennis team didn’t fill all eight flights all season, the mem­ bers of the tennis team did help some of their classmates at the conclusion of the tennis season. Brady Gawne, Clay Dumond, Emil Myers and Colin Heyl joined the varsity boys' cross country team to give die Vikings enough guys to cam team scores in the slate tourna­ ment, die GLAC Championship and the Barry County Meet. Here are thc 2020 All-Barry County Boys* Tennis First and Second Teams. Boys’ Tennis First Team Singles Brady Gawne, Lakewood: Gawne was 14-1 during his senior season at first singles lor die Lakewood varsity boys’ tennis team, finishing as the county’s top player with wins over lhe best TK and Hastings could throw at him. Gawne, an individual slate qualifier as a junior, didn’t get die chance lo compete in the state’s first singles championship which was ,by invitation only this fall. His one loss was to Ionia's Sam Eppler, who he defeated on two this fall. Together they were 4-1 in conference matches in thc OK Gold, and Morton, a senior, had a fifth win teamed with Ronnie Simmons in conference action. Wedykc is a junior this fall. Asher Tiegeler &. Clay Dumond, Lakewood: I'he two teamed up at first doubles a couple weeks into the season and earned four victo­ ries lhe rest of lhe way including one in a super tic-breaker against rivals from Ionia. Tiegeler started the season at first doubles and had seven total wins on lhe season. Dumond opened the year al second singles where he was 1-4 before joining Tiegeler at the top doubles flight for the Vikings. Alt-Barry Counly Boys’ Tennis Second Team Brady Gawne Jack Geukes Joey McLean other occasions this season. Jack Geukcs. Thomapple Kellogg: A junior, Geukes made the jump up from second sin­ gles to first this season forTK and scored five wins throughout the course of the season. He was 4-3 against the other first singles players during the OK Gold Conference duals. Joey McLean, Hastings: A junior who played some first singles as a freshman and then moved into thc role full time as a sopho­ more, McLean took on other school’s top players all season long. Hc had u straight set win over the top play­ er from Jackson Northwest in September for lhe Saxons and had strung showings in losses with the top playcrs froin Ionia and Harper Creek. James Thome Thomapple Kellogg: Thome, a junior, hit the ten win mark for the IK varsity boys’ tennis team this fall from the ‘'"^'ingfespotX^e-up.HewaslO-? He put that experience to use to compile a 14-3 record overall and he was a perfect 7-0 at his flight during lhe OK Gold Conference duals. Pay ton Wilkinson, Thornapple Kellogg: Wilkinson moved into the second singles spot this fall as a junior after starting his sopho­ more season in the doubles line-up and then closing thal season at third singles. Wilkinson was 8-9 overall this season and went 4-3 in lhe Trojans’ seven OK Gold Conference duals. Doubles Daniel Middleton & Hayden Oly, Thomapple Kellogg: The Trojans’ top dou­ bles pair earned four victories together. Middleton was a part of first doubles wins over the top teams from Hastings and Lakewood this season. Hie duo scored OK Gold Conference victo­ ries over Kenowa Hills and Ottawa Hills. Josh Wcdyke & Sain Morton, Thomapple Kellogg: Die duo went 6-7 when paired with each other in the second doubles spot for TK overall. , ^ni 5-2 agains( third singles players in the OK Gnld Conference this fall durin8^edua|™^ Nick Vreelani] Thornappfe Kellogg. Vreeland filled the’fourth sing,CS Sp°l !" ht IK line-up thu fa|| . s a junior after splitting Umcu ^nd singles as a sophomore. Call 269-945-9554 any time l°r Hastings Banner classified ads Singles Emil Meyers, Lake wood: A freshman, Meyers opened the season with a fourth sin­ gles victory and then moved up into lhe third singles position. Meyers scored wins over foes from Owosso and Hastings after his bump up into the line­ up and had one of lhe top performances in the Vikings’ district match-up with Flint Powers Catholic at the end of the season. John Tellkamp. Hastings: Tellkamp, a junior, worked his way up to the second sin­ gles spot for the Saxons this fall before an injury forced him oft lhe court. He had a big straight-set win over Pennfield in lhe Saxons’ 1-8 dual with the Panthers in early September. Doubles r Gavin Denman & Robby I loller.Thomapple Kellogg. Holler, a junior and Denman a senior, compiled a 7-9 record at third doubles tor 1K this season. 1 he pair was 5-2 when teamed up at third doubles in OK Gold Conference duals this season. Andre Perez & Mitchell Vann, Hastings: l he Saxon second doubles duo at the close of the season, they teamed up for a win in a super tie-breaker tn their team's 1-8 dual with Harper Creek. Il was one of two super tie breaker Vann was a part of. Both guys had two wins victones on the season. �•' The Hastings Banner— IhundHy. November 26, 2020 — Page 11 " ’4 bounty cross country boys competitive this fall "*«« Bremer ....... ss'.Si, tionupple Kellogg VM_. 'R*'«' ™nncn., ihe ♦ .earn n, w m X' cou"’ ft* tbc top snof ;„^h Kel,°^ arul ....... The top seven finki SaXonsLakewood High School al ,hat race al All-Barry County SP°,S lhc 2020. with the next Jv. T for lhc faU of ing spot, on .h?l1XntrS,hC?nCeamample of the atuntv’X <Cam- A unable to compete in tk~ l>erformers honored hem ' C°UWy m“‘ thc “u'nIV«X,c7.^ulrrcfShTn lool< over -pots on thc All-Barrv r- rcs^men aimed Which bodes we T™ Tea*"’ seniors among the first t^ ?;ereineo™y season. * 11 1 cam honorees this Delton Kellogg was the only Barry County team to advance beyond the special pre-rZ Ponal mund of the 2020 state to^atnent. but every team m the counly had al least one guy advance to the regional round of lhe sute tournament. Thomapple Kellogg and Hastings had more guys qualify for regionals than not. Here are the 2020 AU-Bany County Boys’ CVo'©nounlD F,rst and Second Teams. All-Barry County Boys’ Cross Country First Team Nathan Alford. Lakewood: Alford capped his varsity cross country career as a two-time state qualifier. He won eight races during his senior season including thc Greater Lansing Activities Conference Championship at Turkeyville in October where he set his varsi­ ty personal record at 16 minutes 14.9 seconds. Alford qualified for the Division 2 Lower Peninsula Cross Country Finals with an eighth-place time of 16:47.7 at his regional race hosted by DeWitt High School. Alford was unable to compete at the slate finals as a senior this fall, or in the Barry County Meet, but earned his spot amongst the county honor­ ees throughout the season. Hector Jimenez, Delton Kellogg: Jimenez placed sixth at the Barry Counly Meet, run­ ning to a time of 18:475 to close out his sophomore season as a two-sport, fall athlete at Delton Kellogg where he was also one of the Panthers' best soccer players. Jimenez ran his fastest race of thc season in early September, placing sixth with a time of 18:29.2. at the quad the Panthers hosted at Gilmore Car Museum. Hc placed 12th at the Panthers’ Division 3 Prc-Rcgional Race back al Gilmore Car Museum in late October and Nathan Alford Micah Ordway Caleb LaBoe enth position at the Barry County Meet in early November, hitting the finish line in then 34th at thc team's Division 3 Regional race in 18:19.9. 18:56.9 to close out his freshman season. Reynolds finished as high as 24th in an OK the following week. Teed placed 21st at the Interstatc-8 Athletic Caleb LaBoe, Hastings: The fastest fresh­ Gold Conference race this fall and placed Conference Championship, after finishing as men in a group of good ones for the Saxons 28th at the conference championship meet high as 20th in a conference jamboree. He set this fall, LaBoe was the runner-up at the Barry with a time of 18’30.1. That OK Gold his personal record at 18:28.2 in a tenth-place Conference Championship was Reynolds finish at the Lakewood Invitational the first County Meet with a time fo 17:58.5. LaBoe won the Holland Calvary Meet in final race of lhe fall but he earned his spot on week of October. early October, and then followed that up by the all-county first team despite being able to Lucas VanMeter?Thomapple Kellogg: .A placing fifth at the Interstatc-8 Athletic compete in the Barry County Meet. freshman. VanMeter busted thc 19-minute Riley Shults, Hastings: Shults closed out barrier in the Trojans’ second nice of the sea­ Conference Championship hosted by Marshall at Turkeyville. LaBoe was an individual his freshman season on the Saxon varsity by son (the first OK Gold Conference jamboree regional qualifier in Division 2. setting a per­ placing fourth at the Barry County Meet with of the year) and then got under the 18-minute sonal record time of 17:33.6 at the regional a lime of 17:59.8, setting a personal record in mark for the first time in a third-place perfor­ race in Otsego. the process. mance at thc Barry County Meet where he Micah Ordway, Delton Kellogg: Ordway Shults had five top ten finishes on the sea­ finished in 17:59.1. earned All-Barry County first team honors for son. and was an individual regional qualifier In between, VanMeter had four other top thc third time this fall, winning the Barry in Division 2. He placed 45 at the regional ten finishes, placed as high as 21st at an OK Counly Meet in 17 minutes 49.6 seconds, ft race in Otsego in 18:17.6, his second best Gold Conference race and he qualified for the was his first victory of lhe season in which he time of lhe season. regional round of thc state tournament. also had three runner-up finishes and four Matthew Smith, Thomapple Kellogg: ?\ All-Barry County Boys' Cross Country third-place times. junior. Smith turned on thc jets at the begin* Second Team Ordway qualified for the Division 3 Lower ning of October. He set a new personal record Ryan Alford. Lakewood: Alford finished Peninsula State Finals for the third time this at 18:30.7 at the Allendale Falcon Invitational off his sophomore season with a ninth-place fall and earned his second state medal. Oct. 5 finishing about 50 seconds faster than time of 18:59.4 at lhe Barry Counly Meet Ordway ran the fastest race of his fall season he had at any time previously this fall. his first lop ten performance of the season. at MIS, finishing 28th in 16 minutes 55.8 Alford qualified for the regional round of Smith went on to lower his PR to 18:06.1 at seconds. the Division 2 Regional in Otsego Oct. 31, a the slate tournament with a 28lh-placc finish Camden Reynolds, Thomapple Kellogg: A time that put him in 38th place. Smith closed at his team’s pre-regional hosted by Lansing junior. Reynolds ran his fastest race of the thc year with a fifth-place time of 18:29.9 at Catholic. Hc followed that up by setting a new season at the Allendale Falcon Invitational the lhe Barry County Meetpersonal record at 18:33.0 al thc Greater first week of October. He placed 13th at the Jonah Teed, Hastings: Teed earned the sev- Lansing Activities Conference Championship 100 mA ©f Brett Bremer Sports Editor There was a day or two where varsity golf­ ers were supposed lo wear a mask out on the links, there were limits on lhe number of competitors able to compete at some events, and quarantines cost girls a couple weeks here and there, but otherwise it was par for the course this fall. Thc latkewood varsity girls’ golf team kept its string of Greater Lansing Activities Conference championships going. The Thomapple Kellogg girls in the OK Gold Conference and the Hastings girls in lhe Intcrslate-8 Athletic Conference were com­ petitive. with either team or individual goals of reaching the state finals. The Trojans just missed returning to the Division 2 Lower Peninsula Stale Finals, placing just a few strokes back of the last regional qualifiers al regionals. Hastings managed to get one senior through to the state finals in Division 3. As far as those tough conference competi­ tors. The OK Gold Conference saw South Christian place third in lhe state in Division 3. Forest Hills Eastern seventh and Grand Rapids Catholic Central 15th. The Interstatc-8 Athletic Conference had lhe Harper Creek girls finish in the midst of that group, placing 13th at the finals. The 1-8 also had Jackson Lumen Christi earn a 13th-place finish at thc Division 4 Finals. Only three of the All-Barry County-honor­ ees this year were also members All-Barry County first or Second Team. Here are the 2020 All-Barry County Girls Golf First and Second teams. All-Barry County Girls’Golf First ll-am r Maleah Bailey- Thomapple Kel ogg: • „ .nnt in the varsity six lor me according to her Bailey had z© capped off that coach Bob Ka,.n,"s. ' jg-hole varsity season by scon i• h tournament at round ever al the ^ d :l 92 to finYankee Springs where she score ish in 15th-place indtvt ua . scnior Maddie Coe. I^^reme y consistent Maddie Coe was ‘-xtrem y throughout the fall accordtng * Kaminski. . . fina| OK Gold Coe finished 2IM •" ll> . ‘7and had a Conference season-long mne-hok of 50.33. , Honsowitz Rylee Honsowitz, Hastmg Morgan Stahl Rylee Honsowitz closed an outstanding varsity golf career at Hastings by earning first team all-conference honors in the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference, academic al I-conference, and earning a spot in the Division 3 Lower Peninsula State Finals. Honsowitz placed 19th among the individ­ ual state qualifiers at the state finals, an event which was shortened to 18 holes rather than thc regular 36 this fall where she shot an 82. She had a nine-hole scoring average of 42 for the season, best in the county. She earned her state finals spot by placing fourth nt her team’s Division 3 Regional Tournament al Diamond Springs where she shot an 83. Lane Kaminski, Thornapple Kellogg: Kaminski finished in thc top ten in every tour­ nament she played in this season, and coach Kaminski said the junior was one ot the lead­ ers on their team. She was one of two 'IK ladies lo earn all-conference honors in lhe OK Gold. She closed lhe year with a nine-hole scoring aver­ age of 45.4. She led her team al its Division 2 Regional Tournament at Yankee Springs. shooting an 89. Morgan Stahl, Lakewood: Stahl earned first team all-conference honors in the Greater I-ansing Activities Conference this fall while helping lead the Vikings to the conference championship. She led lhe Lakewood team with a ninehole scoring average of 56.1 and was at 108 strokes on average in 18-hole events. She led the Vikings at the league championship tour­ nament, shooting a 10 L Paige VanStee. T»omapple Kellogg: al Turkeyville. It was one of three lime. this fall that he Brushed a race in less than 19 min­ utes . Austin Blocker, Delton KcHogif; Blocker, a junior, placed 12th at (he Barry County Meet in 19.19.3. He was in (he low 19’s «t each pf hi - final five nic-cs of thc fall. Blocker had his fastest race of the season at thc quad hosted by Gobles Oct. 3, placing 11 th in 18:58.6. He finished as high as 22 in a Southwestern Athletic Conference race this season, hitting that mark in the conference, championship meet. Howie Frizzell. Thomapple Kellogg: A senior, Frizzell finished off his third varsity cross country season by placing tenth at the Barry County Meet in 1911.8 - finishing inside thc top 20 at the county meet for the first lime in three tries. Frizzell ran his fastest time of lhe season Oct 5 at the Allendale Falcon Invitational where hc placed 18th in 18:47.5 Brennan Lutz. Thomapple Kellogg: Lutz closed his senior year with an eighth-place time of 18:58.8 at the Barry County Meet, earning a spot on lhe All-Barry County Second Team for lhe second consecutive sea­ son. Lutz ran his fastest race of lhe fall Oct. 31. placing 40th in the Division 2 Regional race hosted by Otsego in 18 minutes 72 seconds. He finished as high as 30th this season in the OK Gold Conference. Micah Manin. Delton Kellogg: Martin hit the finish line in less than 20 minutes in eight of his last nine races of lhe season, including the Barry Counly Meet where he placed 13th in 19:39.8. Manin set a personal record at the Division 3 Regional his team hosted al Gilmore Car Museum, breaking the 19-minute mark for thc first time as he placed 16th in 18-57.6. Oaten Patten, Hastings: A senior, Patten earned All-Barry County honors for the first time in his four high school seasons by plac­ ing 14th at the county meet with a time of 19:41.0. Il was lhe last of four limes he broke the 20-minulc mark this fall. He ran his fastest race of the season on the same course al Lakewood High School, plac­ ing 20th at the Oct. 3 Lakewood Invitational in 19:34.2. Patten qualified for the regional round of the slate tournament this year. Curtis Walker, Maple Valley: I'he senior leader for lhe Lion team. Walker set a new- ’ personal record at his team’s Division 3 Regional nice hosted by Pewamo-Westphalia where he placed 20th in 18:45.4. Il was lhe first time in a four-y ear varsity running career that he bested the 19-minute mark. Walker had his best-cver GLAC Championship finish this fall too. placing 26th with a time of 19:06.8 in the nilfe at Turkeyville. He placed 11 th at lhe Barry Counly Meet in 19:15.1. g@if Ofet 111 al 18-hole events throughout lhe fall. Benham earned first team all-conference in the GLAC. and was thc conference medalist at thc jamboree hosted by the Vikings at Centennial Acres where she scored a 51. Natalie Lang. Lakewood: Lang led lhe Lakewood team al two of the four GLAC jamborees this fall, helping thc team to a con­ ference championship while earning first team al I-conference honors. Lang had a nine-hole scoring average of 58.4 for the season and 113.7 in 18-hole matches. Josey Nickels. Hastings: A senior. Nickels put together a scoring average of 57 strokes per nine holes in what was just her second season on the varsity and second season of playing golf. Nickels earned academic all-conference honors in the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference this fall as well. Katy Raphael. Thomapple Kellogg: Raphael earned a s|x>t in the Trojan varsity line-up as a junior this fall and had a low con­ ference nine-hole score of 50 at the jamboree hosted by Grand Rapids Catholic Central at Quail Ridge. . Raphael closed the season with a nine-hole scoring average of 52.6. ............. Karissa Sanders, fhornapplc Kellogg: Coach Kaminski said Sanders, a senior, was a valuable contributor to the Trojan hne-up Lane Kaminski throughout lhc fall competing m most ot her team's matches and toumaments Sanders put together a nine-hole scoring VanSlee earned al I-conference honors in the average of 54.78 tor thc season.The first con­ OK Gold Conference during her senior cam­ ference jamboree of the season u as her best paign. She led the Trojan team with a nineone as >he fired a 51 at the event hosted by hole scoring average of 44.75 strokes. Wayland Union at Otchard Hills Golf Course. Coach Kaminski said VanSlee had an all Rec>e Warner. Hastings: Warner, a senior around great season, scoring in every varsity leader for thc Saxoin and a thrce-year varsity event she played in. player, earned academic all conference :ind All-Barry County honorable mention all conference awards in Girls’ Golf Second IVam Claire Benham. Uikewood: Benham fin­ the (-8 this fall. Warner compiled a nine-hole scoring aver­ ished the .season with a nine-hole scoring age of 53 this season. average of 56.9, and had an average score o See us for color copies, one-hour photo processing, business cards, invitations and all your printing needs. J-Ad Graphics’. PRINTING PLUS 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.- nofrth of Hastings city limits �Pdtjfl 12 — Thursday, November 26, 2020 —* I’he HAFtings Ba ir t Royal Coach property being prepared for new project The former Hastings Manufacturing Group warehouse could figure into me r for a new project at lhe former Royal Coach site. (Photos by Scott Harmsen) Luke FYoncheck Staff Writer This summer, the historic Royal Coach building was destined for reclamation on property in downtown Hastings overlooking the Thomapple River. Now lhe property north of the river is a vacant lot. The building was destroyed by a massive fire - alleged to be an arson - on Oct. 7. Keigan Sochor of Hastings has been charged with multiple crimes connected to that fire and is scheduled to appear Wednesday in Barr) County District Court for a probable cause hearing in thal case. The fire bunted for weeks, leaving the lol covered in smoldering debris. Workers with Sandman Trucking of Freeport have spent weeks clearing the prop­ erty. All thal is left of the building is a cement foundation, surrounded by a chain-link fence. That crew still has some bulldozing and con­ crete removal to do before their work at the site is done. . The property is owned by the Barrs1 Community Foundation, which is partnering with General Capital Group, a development company out of Milwaukee. Together, they had planned to develop the property into dozens of affordable housing units. They still do. Immediately after the fire. Barry Community Foundation President Bonnie Gettys said the foundation staff was just thankful the fire had occurred before the ren­ ovations and families had moved in. Good can rise out of those ashes, she said. ‘‘We’re looking forward to what the next steps are going to be so wc can continue to work toward creating more affordable hous­ ing opportunities,” Gettys said. Right now, the project is in lhe hands of the development company, which is considering a plan that may include lhe vacant warehouse east of where the Royal Coach building had stood. flic warehouse, which was formerly owned by Hastings Manufacturing Co. and is made of sheet metal and wood, was not damaged in the fire. Community Development Director Dan King (old the Hastings City Council al its meeting Monday. ‘‘Wc met with the developer General Capital about a week after the fire. Obviously, it knocked them for a loop. In all their years, they had never experienced a total loss of a rehab building ...So they are going back to the drawing board. “No. 1 is to determine if lhere’s any histor­ ical value to the white warehouse going lo the east because historical points factor in to the state’s awards of those low-income housing tax credits.” “Obviously, they will have to go back and redesign from the ground up a brand-new structure that will incorporate the 19 units of the townhouse, plus the 54 units of the rental part of the building.” King said. The plan involving the vacant warehouse would hinge on any historic building tax cred­ its the property may be eligible for. Gettys told the Banner. It’s possible that the state would still award The property overlooks the Thornapple River near a pedestrian bridge and downtown amenities. The cleanup crew still has some work to do before they’re finished at the site of the Oct. 7 fire destroyed the former Royal Coach building. low-income housing tat credits for the projecl, she noted. “We’re just waiting on a response from the developers.” Gettys said, “then we can try and Invasive mile-a-minute weed fou nd m 'I'he Michigan departments of Natural Resources and Agriculture and Rural Development recently confirmed lhe presence of the invasive milc-a-minute w eed (Persicaria perfoliala) at Albion College’s Whitehouse Nature Center in Calhoun County. Mile-a-minute weed, a fast-growing, barbed vine native lo India. Asia and the Philippine Islands, was not known to be in Michigan until Doug White, professor of ecology at Albion College, discovered it Oct. 3 in a forest opening on the property while surveying for house wrens. “I’m not normally out there in October, but w'c color-banded nestlings this year, and 1 was following the fledglings,” said White. “I saw these purple and blue fruits on a plant, and I was curious. Years ago, I wrote my disserta­ tion on bird-dispersed fruits, so naturally 1 wanted to find out what they were.” While took photos, plucked a branch from the vine and. after some research, determined that this was an invasive plant previously unknown in die state. A species is considered invasive in Michigan if it is not native and can cause harm to the environment or economy. Mile-a-minute weed is an annual vine that gets its name from its ability to grow up to six inches per day, or 25 feet in six lo eight weeks. Its light green leaves are shaped like equilateral triangles, and both the stems and leaf blades are lined with small, recurved barbs that help it climb over other vegetation Small, inconspicuous white flowers appear in spring, developing into spikes of pea-sized, blue fruits in mid-summer. Unusual circular leaves called ocreae clasp the stems below the Mile-a-minute weed is a vine that can be identified by its triangular leaves and spikes of blue, pea-sized fruit. fruits. Mile-a-minute weed thrives in full sun and wet soils, but it can in a variety of con­ ditions. Like man ]nvasive plants, it takes advantage of open soace and disturbed areas including roadside? stream banks, forest edges and feneelin?; Hie vine’s fast „raWth and climbing habit allow It to overtake native and landscape veg­ etation, eventua|iv smothering plants and trees under dense nrickly thickets. Because of the risk to Michi'Pj Christmas tree farms, of for oxpiro? 11 /30/20 See us for all your copy needs... Plack and white or color! Hastings 1351 9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00 - 4:30 > U” County . Recurved barbs lino mile-a-minute weed vines and leaf margins. for 4x6 Digital L Prints figure out what the next steps are.” reforestation proie ts and habitat restoration areas and lhe j* ~ Iiinited distribution, mile-a-minute weed is on the state's invasive species watch list .nic firs' established population of uuleammute weed w Xd in a Pennsylvania "ur^*y in the 1930s likely brought to the location jn J ,‘ j nursery slock. B“aase the xtivc h> birds, deer and small ma ‘ ls * „re easily spread miles away fJ* plants. Mile-ammute weed ini' 'have been repotted m 15 Mates "^"‘"“" Lhuted States, lhe closest known inr? ! ,.n is in northern Ohio. *?NR and Mbslalt'are working with h,?‘Onal RI flSing Cooperative Invasive Specie x*. , -ment Area's, Albion ('oIk*ge fiKuJ > MaiHfcL , olhef |an(jown C,Sto^rn&^^bmionandextentof Blue fruit grows in spikes above a cir­ cular, clasping leaf. Each fruit contains one black seed. the infestation. l he infestation at lhe Whitehouse Nature Center will lx* managed by Albion stall and students who will manually remove thc vines. BCK CISMA. serving Barry, Calhoun and Kalamazoo counties, along with .11 ,W ('ISM A in neighboring Jackson, Lenawee and Washtenaw counties, will assi't in outreach and identification of other potential sightings. Though milc-a-minute weed can be removed by hand, seeds can persist in the soil for up to six years, so infested sites need to be monitored regularly for regrowth. New shoots can be mowed or tilled in lhe spring or early summer before fruiting, as even immature green fruits can carry viable seed and create new plants. Though most vegetation is now dying buck, mile-a-minute weed fruits may still be visible on the vine, and barbs will be present on steins and leaf blades. Anyone encountering a vine that could be mile-a-minute weed should visit Michigan.gov/lnvasives lo review identi­ fication information. If thc plant appears to be mile-a-minute weed, lake photos, note th* location and report lite find using one of these methods: Use the Midwest Invasive Species information Network (MISIN) online report­ ing tool. Download the MISIN smartphone app and report from your phone - MISlN.MSU.edu/ ToolVApps Thorne. Contact Susannah lott, MDARD I\sticide and Plant Pest Management Division, lottS*'1 Michigun.gov or 517-420-0473. For more information on mile-a-minute weed and other invasive species of concern in Michigan, visit Michigan.gov/lnvasives. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-12-03.pdf 40a1bb02b6fa0969b72a2dc19f5f5c6e PDF Text Text Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 804879110187 ANNER Barry County internet expansion years off Interim superintendent Thylor Owens Staff Writer ‘The one thing COVID has While the pandemic has highlighted the need for improved internet connectivity in done is it’s really opened Barry’ County, officials say improvements will everybody's eyes to just how take years to implement. poor broadband can be in ‘'There’s so much out there that still needs parts of Barry County.’ to be covered,” Dan Manning of Connected Nation Michigan said. Dave Jackson, Barry County The Federal Communications Commission Commissioner launched a $20 billion Rural Digital Opportunity Fund in February’ to help low population areas across the country increase internet capabilities. The funding, which the MEI CEO David Stoll said work on the FCC said is its largest-ever investment in its efforts to close the digital divide in the United project will begin after the grant is finalized States, will be disbursed over the next 10 next year, and will take some time to com­ years. plete. due to the sheer mileage of fiber optic It’s one of several initiatives in the public cable to be installed. The first half of the $11.8 million dollar and private sector to increase broadband con­ project will be paid for by MEL while the nectivity. “I suspect w’c’U sec more and more of that second half will be paid for with funds from as a direct consequence of CO VID.” Manning the USDA. "It’s extremely cost-prohibitive to bring said. "Ideally, we want to get everyone in the state and in the country to 25 megabyte fiber to remote areas because you could bury miles of fiber and maybe hit one person.” speed.” A 2018 study by Connected Nations Stoll said. But the fiber internet will be much faster, at Michigan showed that less than half of the residences in Barry County have access to 25 one gigabyte per second, compared to the four to 16 megabyte per second offered in many megabyle-per-second internet speeds. Barry County Services Company, the par­ rural areas. know that everyone wants it tomorrow', ent company of MEI Telecom, received an $! 1.8 million U.S. Department of Agriculture but it’s going to take several years to finish the matching grant earlier this year to lay fiber project.” he said. lire project could take up to 10 years. cable in specific areas throughout the county. although to finish before a decade n. r . "The one thin^..ixxrv. has d°ne is it’s really opened eyes to just how poor broadband of Ban7 County.” Ba^.£Sry ^mtssioncr Dave Jackson said. Jackson said th * ^commissioners has been working >or to improve broad­ band access. “I*‘. ,On8. tiring process.” Last year, he said he thought they were finally making some progress, and he heard rumors of improvements coming - then the pandemic hit. "COVID has really slowed the process down,” Jackson saidSome residents have expressed frustration to commissioners about the quality of connec­ tivity. , c . Last April. Yankee Springs Township resi­ dent Ken Williamson spoke to the commis­ sioners about issues with internet availability during the pandemic. "We don’t have access to this utility, my family is separated from the community we depend on.” Williamson said. "Now my chil­ dren can’t rely on this method of communica­ tion for the purpose ol their education, or to keep up with their classmates." Williamson said the best internet access he can gel is oil Verizon cell towers. The family has a dedicated hotspot fcr web access that See INTERNET, page 3 ready for new role Sophie Bates Staff Writer When Matt Goebel was named interim superintendent by the Hastings Board of Education Nov. 23, it was quite literally a dream come true. “I’m just honored to be given this opportunity,” Goebel said. "It’s been a drcam of mine for quite some time.” Goebel, who has worked for the Hastings Area School System for more than eight years, currently serves as the assistant superintendent of student achievement. When the board gathered to discuss the vacancy being created by the Dec. 23 departure of Superintendent Dan Remcnap, Goebel, who is already steeped in the educational pursuits of the district, was the obvious choice — especially after the board received a letter from all the district’s administrators and directors endorsing Goebel. "We arc very fortunate to have someone within the district to help us fill this role during these times,” school board President Luke I lay wood said. “Matt has the full support of the board to lead our district. We have seen numerous correspondence from administrators and staff in his support as well. Matt is very qualified to fill this position, and he is excited to take on this new role." At Hastings, Remcnap was paid $130,000 a Matt Goebel year; in his new three-year contract with Thornapple Kellogg Schools, Rcmenap will make $160,(XX) the first year, $171,000 in the See INTERIM, page 2 County health officials prepare for vaccines Taylor Owens Staff' Writer Tile Centers for Disease Control is recom­ mending healthcare workers and nursing home residents receive the first COVID-19 vaccines, which are expected this month. The United States has around 20 million healthcare workers, according to the U.S. Census, which also is the number of vaccines expected to be produced this year. There are about 3 million people living in nursing homes in the U.S. Barry-Eaton District Health Department official Jennifer Casarez said members of the department arc meeting with local hospitals this week to plan the rollout of a vaccine. One of the biggest challenges is storage. The first anticipated vaccine, made by Pfizer, must be kept at temperatures of minus-85 degrees Celsius.The health depart­ ment does not have the capability for storing the minimum required order of 900 doses at that temperature, and will be'working with the state to help store the vacdincs. Casarez said. . i As of Wednesday morning. Barry' County had 361 active COVID cases antf 140 proba­ ble cases. I he total number of COVID cases in the county stands at 2,142. Two more deaths due to COVID have occurred since last week, bringing to total to 14. The last four deaths included a 73-yearold man on Nov. 17, a 71-year-old man on Nov. 20, a 94-year-old man on Nov. 25 and an 84-year-old man on Nov. 28. Since Oct. 1, as of last week, a total of 40 Barry County residents have been hospital­ ized. Nearly 100,000 people were hospitalized with COVID-19 in the United States on Tuesday. While the number of tests in the county went down slightly over the past two weeks, the positivity rale has continued to increase. 'The positivity rate is the percentage of all the tests that were done that were positive. See VACCINES, page 2 Video tour shows new Baum Family Surgical Center Sophie Bates Staff Writer The unveiling of Spectrum Health Pennock’s new $12 million Baum Family Surgery Center Nov. 16 was tinged with sadness for Angela Ditmar, president of Spectrum Health Pennock. Over the past two years, she has watched the center grow from a mere idea into a 19,000-square-fool building and was looking forward to sharing the accomplishment with the local community — which raised $4 million for the project’s capital campaign. The reveal was to be a celebratory event, complete with public tours of the facility; but, as the number of COVID-19 cases in Barry County began rapidly rising, tours were canceled. "I’m really saddened, though, because our plan was to open it to tours for the community.” Ditmar said. "I’m really bummed that people won’t be able to see it.” Nevertheless. Ditmar and the staff came up with a creative solution: Instead of bringing the community to the center, they’d bring the center to the community — with a video tour. Spectrum Health Pennock released the five-minute video tour on its Facebook page Nov. 24. It includes an introduction with Ditmar and Spectrum Health Pennock Board Chairwoman Lani Forbes. "The Iasi year has changed the way that we’ve done many things, including the way we celebrate monumental occasions such as this,” Ditmar said in the video’s introduction, "I wish we could all be together to celebrate this huge contribution to our community in person. On the behalf of Spectrum Health Pennock. I want to thank you from the bottom of our hearts.” Tlie tour is narrated by Nurse Manager Cheryl Sinclair and takes viewers through a step-by-step process of what to expect when entering the center for surgery - from the dedicated parking lot •» its private pattent exit. It also includes interviews with Chief of Surgery Andrew Parsons, Director ol the Spectrum Health Foundation Pennock Janine Dalman and Pastor Michael Anton, who blessed the center’s sup|x>rt beams. "Thanks to vou. 'be new state-of-the-art Baum Family SurpO' Center has become a reality that is allowing us to nnprove heahh, inspire hope and save fives he re in County. We’re hopeful 11,111 1,1 2021 able to bring you through the surgery center in Person " Didman saiJ-clos,n? oul lhe, V,df°’ n. LMimai . lfnportont to share •he cXr^it i venter win lions but because the because of [heir |hc comfor1 of venter is design^ d icnls a, its fiBl community mcmb^5 ' Pn”in^‘ r .he-art dcsiBn Providcs our ?h>s state-oMh t Joor access;- Sinclair Parents to have ^ervieW. -single rooms *d m a later > wi(h priVacy that is Pnjvide our pati^ ical °ind endoscopy Center visitors will see a spacious lobby designed for comfort Baum Family •nd functionality- v" prOvided) ■ ‘‘Mrable. Our ne* continuc to provide hi»hS W*r a,,OW|hf(*gh H"Proved workflow "’^•quality care iW” ,s Our exit door that ‘,nu efficiency . aHoW>s them to exit v call ‘almost h js separate from where "«nigh an area fJ aboul the patient entered. It p CxPeriencv.” ,s patient comfort b> ...... 5 center imp entrance with heated 1lz’ng a drive-I |enl and exit and .* ’•‘walks, private I slreamlined pre-surgery “sy check-in and < ;s can Cvcn stay with n 5ess’ Now. fJh’ wait surgery in the pre­ sents while tltff . during a loved one’s ‘^ration room operation. hospital’s procedures ne majority o’ nol require a slay at the ‘lre out-patient, and‘ Fifteen patient rooms — separated by walls rather than curtains — ensure patient privacy. (Photo provided) hospital; so, lhe center was tailored to improve the outpatient experience. "We have designed it to better suit the needs of our outpatients — people who come ill for surgery and go home lhe same day,” Parsons said in an interview. “They have direct entrance and exit and a clear pathway through the hospital. We have private rooms for prcand-pqst-surgery recovery, which is very nice. "1 think it js fair to say that this is one of (he nicest surgical centers in the area. It certainly is as nice, if not nicer, than centers that 1 have seen. It meets all of our current needs and allows us to grow over lime and add new capabdities. It really is designed belter in terms of how patients will move through the environment and gives them more privacy and easier access.” Dalman said she is grateful to be pan of a community invested in its healthcare. "We arc very fortunate to live and work in a community that believes in ... having the best local health care possible and is wilfing to invest in Spectrum Health Pennock through their gifts to Spectrum Health Foundation al Pennock,” Dalman said. "Being part of a larger system means we hive greater access to resources than we did as an hospital "These shared resources between Spectrun Health and Spectrum Health Foundation aJ helping Kmnock Hospital and our foundatio continue to grow and support the health ncc^ of our local community in even greater �. x i«until January Many schools opt for remote learning *9* 2 — Thuftday. Oct-nibp.' 3, 2020 — The Hastings Banner Taylor Owens Staff Writer and Bridge MagtL'ine Hastings Area Schools shifted to remote e*lrning for all students until Jan. 18. alter struggling with staff shortages. Maple Valley Schools experienced similar ls*ucs, and is scheduled to have all but its lower elementary .students learn remotely until Jan. 19. ' Other districts in the Barry County region nre continuing to monitor their .staff, and may close specific buildings, or their districts, if then situation* change Across Michigan, many .students won’t be returning to classrooms until at least January as COVID-19 roars through the state. A Michigan Department of Health and Human Services «*r V11^week closure of the state’, high schools ends Dec. 8. but many schools in sonic of Michigan's most populous countiesarcn t waiting to sec if that order i Choosing to close buildings until after the winter break. „ , r Some am closing all K-12 classrooms rath­ er than just high schools, and some sc:i districts don’t plan to reopen their ui in;.s until Jan. 22 at the earliest, argumg that repeated switching between m-c ass an remote instruction models is harmful for ci s, families and teachers. . "I ‘iKb’ t want to vo-yo in a"<1 ,OUI, °f school,’’ said Ketit^ft, stoo- »«l“de"' of Godfrey Lee ^School* ”mn<1 Rapids, where hXch<*,e? W 11 lcarn remotely until Jan |2 bul fam>l1C’ « > «“"gcr students will have an in-pc'*’11 '’n'!? ? believe a vaccine for teache” *‘l* 111 reach by that time.” Barring an additional state’s more than Kot) traditional hCh°° d,.s* tricts and charter schools will have to make their own decisions about when high school students will retum to uhtssro0”^ , . Some school leaders exptfsscd ? reluctance to bring back students next week, fresh off three weeks of remote jcamin8’fortWO Wccks INTERIM, continued from page 1 second year and SI82.000 in the third year. In his current position, Goebel is making $109366. His salary as interim .superintendent has yet to be determined, he said. Once Remenap’s resignation takes effect, Goebel will officially step into his new role as interim superintendent. Right now. he is working with Remenap to ensure a smooth transition. Then Goebel’s appointment as the interim will last until June 30. That’s when the board will decide whether to appoint him permanently or start a search for a new superintendent. ”At this point, we are not hiring a superintendent or making a decision of doing a search,” Haywood said. “We are trying to gel by the day-to-day challenges by appointing an interim superintendent. We will re-evaluate in late March after Matt has helped us get through this crisis. “At the end of March, we will determine if wc will do a search or possibly hire Matt for this position if lhe board desires.” Until then. Goebel — who ha* a bachelor’s degree in psychology and special education, a masters degree in educational leadership and an educational specialist degree, all from Grand Valley State University — plans to use his background in educational leadership and years of administrative experience to steady the district during this turbulent time. If permanently hired for the post, Goebel said his top priorities would be to improve academic programming, school infrastructure and accountability. “My first and upmosl vision would be on student learning and academics and making sure we have lhe programming that is necessary for our students to get them college and career ready.” he said. “But also making sure that we have good infrastructure; you know, making sure that we’re being accountable to our community in regard to the academics and fiscal responsibility.” Before he began working for Hastings as the director of curriculum, Goebe was an elementary' principal and high school assistant principal at Orchard View Schools in Muskegon. In the eight years since he started at Hastings, Goebel has worked in many different areas: human resources, spec i a education, contract negotiation, student intervention and more. “I oversee all curriculum development and design within lhe district.” he said. ‘ Anything academic or learning for the students, I oversee — including lhe virtual learning that we’ve definitely had to transition to this year. Goebel said he’s grateful for the opportunities Hastings has given him to grow his skills. “I’ve been very fortunate that Hastings has provided me an opportunity to do lots of different things. I was fortunate the board gave me the opportunities to grow. He lives with his wife, Amy. and three children, in Grand Rapids, where he must reside to honor an agreement with his ex-wife regarding his children’s educational setting. Even so, he has made an effort to serve the community. He is currently in his second year as lhe chairman of the Barry County United Way, sits on the Barry County Family Support Center board, and recently finished his term as president of the Hastings Kiwanis. “It is critical for me to be involved in the community',” he said. “I don’t live here in the community; however, I dedicate and am committed to things outside of the district. I’m a very’ service-oriented person and that has always gone along with my nonprofit work and partnerships all the way back when I was working in Special Olympics as a special education teacher. That’s why my work with United Way and Kiwanis is so important. ( “I really believe those organizations need to have a strong relationship with the district for the best of lhe community.” Goebel said vohlnleering and nonprofit work is not only a benefit 10 lhc district and community, it provides him opportunity to set an example fOr smdents. “Service is a genuine love of mine — to really work and volunteer and model that for °ur and our students.” Becoming the superintendent is a goal that he began to pursue a few years ago: He interviewed for the top post f°r Lakewood Public Schools, Grant Public Schools, Wayland Union Schools. Allegan Public Schools and Bay City Public Schools. He even interviewed for the job in Hastings a year-and-a-half ag0 when Remcnap was picked. He said he didn’t get the job then because the district’s needs were different then. “They [the board of education! have to take into consideration a lot of different variables and factors in that position,” Goebel said. ‘‘An internal candidate may not be the way to go at one time - and it may be the way to go al another point in time. “I’m hoping that the board does give me an opportunity here. I’d love to serve the staff and students and community of Hastings.” Haywood echoed Goebel’s remarks, saying that, while he may not have been the right choice for the district in the past. circumstances have changed. With the pandemic, the board is seeking someone who is familiar with the district. Goebel said he is looking forward to working hard, helping lhe district through this tough time and supporting the Saxons. “I know Luke 1 Haywood] said during our discussion that I had a lot of support from lhe staff and administrative team, the teachers here, all of the staff —. which makes me very happy. “I’m very thrilled and 1 want to make sure I do a good job for them and the students here in Hastings.” Where the Hastings schecI board stands President Luke Haygood What are your expectations for a new superintendent? We want our new superintendent to unite our district during this difficult time and col­ laborate with staff lo deal with our COVID-19 pandemic challenges and provide the best possible educational experience to our stu­ dents. We need our new superintendent to be the face of our district in our community and work hand-in-hand with everyone from par­ ents and business leaders to community mem­ bers. What are your thoughts about Superintendent Dan Remenap’s decision to accept the superintendent’s post at Thornapple Kellogg school district? Il is unfortunate that Mr. Remcnap decided to leave our district so quickly. When wc hired him, we felt we had a candidate that was “all in” for Hastings and was here for the long haul. Wc were excited to have someone full of new ideas. Even though he had no previous superintendent experience, we look a chance with him because he appeared to be the right fit for us at lhe time. Mans people are angry because they fell we were used as a stepping-stone, but I feel Mr. Remenap had a positive effect on our district during his short lime here. Mr. Remenap decided lo leave for TK because of a higher salary and also to join a growing district that recently decided to invest in their school by passing a bond initiative to improve their buildings and facilities, some­ thing that we struggle with here at Hastings, time and time again, to gain support in our community. h is my hope that we can continue to have a good working relationship with Mr. Remenap over al TK and collaborale belwecn our two districts to provide additional oppor(unities for both districts. Secretary Valerie Slaughler What are your expectations for a new superinlendent? As a board member and parent. I want a superintendent who is vested in the dis nd andcommunhy- Hastings needs “ dent who places lhe best interests of HASS ^ Xremost _• a leader who connects witli the administration, teachers, staff and stud,,,* in the district. And a leader who ,s up to dale on education and legislative issues, who can step in and lead dunng the pandenuc tssue, that L facing teachers and students. •like. . Matt Goebel has pW^n «> be vested m our community over the last eight years, and is *cll,es^ted amongst HASS and staff. He jumped in «> help bo<h of our last two superintendents as (hey acclimated here at HASS, and I feel neither would’ve been as successful without his support. What arc your thoughts about Superintendent Dan Remenap’s decision to accept the superintendent's post at Thomapple Kellogg school district? I w ish him well in his future endeavors at Thomapple Kellogg. While it is frustrating as a board and district to again go through the process of hiring another superintendent, we understand he is doing this as a personal move for what he feels is best for his family. I’ve had several conversations with Dan and he has had nothing negative lo say about HASS. 1 believe this was an opportunity to keep his family in Grandville, and that he is doing what works best for his family. ’lYustec Mike Nickles What are your expectations for a new superintendent? In short, I want someone who can continue to move lhe district forward. The immediate focus will be on working with our interim superintendent, Matt Goebel. What arc your thoughts about Superintendent Dan Remenap’s decision to accept the superintendent’s post at Thomapple Kellogg school district? On one hand, I am very disappointed - as we all were. On the other hand, we had a superinlen­ dent that was sought out and was ultimate­ ly awarded a position in another good district. TK obviously saw the same qualities we did when we made Dan our superintendent, which tells me our process worked and we chose the right person at the time. Now it’s time to plan, evaluate, reflect and move forward. Future trustee Bradley Tolles What are your expectations for a new superintendent? As a community member, I am confident our board will fill the position with someone who can do the job with the best interests of Hastings Area School System at heart. It exceedingly difficult to expect much more from superintendent candidates who say what they believe will get them the position during the interview process. I am disappointed Mr. Remcnap fell into this category. What are your thoughts about Superintendent Dan Remenap’s decision to accept the superintendent’s post Thornapple Kellogg school district? It is very difficult to ascertain an individu­ al's motivations from an interview or from a broken commitment. I believe our board eval uated all the candidates who interviewed with Mr. Remcnap and selected him, based on what he said and the criteria he met. The interview process is not perfect and, in this case, was not effective in yielding what our district warted. Hopefully, we will find an individual who will not only do the job well, but will also *iave some long-term goals he or she wishes loaccomplish for lhe district before they move co. and winUr nnr ixf: n -.1.. . . . winter breakin .... classrooms before a two-wcek Wayne County Health Department "A. this point, is there a good * ThC He that all classrooms be closed health reason to try to get kids bac recommen something Livonia (short time] before they go on vac®*‘° Sl'i/sS hns already announced if will again?" said Robert McCann, executive direc lor of the K-12 Alliance of Michigan, a state­ do’ -t of the disiricts in Ingham County are wide school advocacy organization, Frofrt a M Le until January, as arc many discontinuity of learning and a parent planning fU " y ^"oddand County. Port Huron Area standpoint, I’m not sure it makes sense.” tncts tn O#K remole lhrough Jan Hie state’s three-wcck high school closure School Dtstri » St cfaif County was announced on a Sunday and took effect ।!. and other a| le;is| higJ1 schools, three days later. The logic of closing high school buildings 'ikd Kevin MiHer. superintendent of St. Clair al Scrvjc<. Agency. and leaving K-8 buildings open had to do with said KevinRegional Educ Katharine Strunk, the pattern health officials have seen in out­ .-“'f the X'ion Policy Innovation breaks - that much of lhe spread is among hi an State University, older students who are involved in activities director of tn Collaborative g schools in which they arc gathered in groups, such as Sd.”"Son » shutter c.assrooms sports. We are in the worst moment of this pan­ demic to dale,” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said UnWhHeerthere’s°value in students getting as in a Sunday evening news conference that u rjc to-face instruction as possible, announced new restrictions for schools, col­ •Tndher way to think about it is. is there the leges, bars and restaurants. ‘The situation has never been more dire. StfomedXhLld™ricts moved to fully remote We are at the precipice, and we need to take aony nrid-November when some action, because as the weather gets cold­ "X* fi"d en0,,gh subs,i,u,e !±' er, and people spend more time indoors, this ers to staff classrooms because so many teach­ virus will spread. “More people will get sick,” Whitmer said, ers were in quarantine. Strunk said there is research indicating that “and there will be more fatalities.” MDHHS spokeswoman Lynn Sutfin said unexpected switches between learning models Tuesday “no decisions have been made about (in-person to online learning and back again what comes next (after the order expires Dec. with little notice, for example) is detrimental 8), and wc want to have as much data as pos­ to student success. . “Is it worth it to open for two weeks in the sible before making a decision. “At the end of the three week pause, wc middle of uncertainly and concern? Strunk will evaluate the impact the actions we have asked. . That’s the question in hard-hit Dickinson taken may have had and determine next steps,” Sutfin said in an email. County in the Upper Peninsula, where “These factors can combine in different Norway-Vulcan Area Schools' Superintendent ways, but measures we will review include Lou Steigerwald sent a letter to parents lhe percent of emergency department visits Monday warning them that it wasn’t clear for coronavirus like illness; if [the percent of whether high schoolers would retum to class­ COVID tests that comes back positive) is pla- rooms Dec. 9. the first school day after the teauing or declining; if reported cases each state’s current COVID order expires. day arc plateauing or declining; and if the “In Dickinson County, you’d be hardnumber of COVID-19 inpatient (hospital) pressed to find someone who doesn’t know admissions each day is declining.” someone who’s had COVID,” Steigerwald McCann said it’s better for schools if the said. “It’s really swept through our nursing state makes a decision sooner rather than later. homes. Our obit page last Saturday was four “The last thing we want is for them to wait pages long.” until the last minute” to tell schools if they are Steigerwald told parents lhe district will being ordered to close for a longer period, wait to sec if lhe stale extends lhe high school McCann said. closure order. If it doesn’t, the district will Detroit Public Schools Community District, work with the local health department to the slate’s largest school district with 51,000 make the call. students, currently plans to be fully remote If the COVID data is as bad next week as it until Jan. 11. is now, the district’s high school likely won’t Grand Rapids Public Schools isn’t return­ open, Steigerwald said. ing until at least Jan. 4. The Kent County r State officials “push it down to local folks Health Department has recommended that fto make decisions,] and none of us arc dochigh schools not reopen until at least Jan. 15. tors,” he said. “Parents are letting their kids Interim Kent Intermediate School District gel together after school. I get it, lhe kids arc Superintendent Ron Koehler said he expects going buggy. But it's hot working.” most of lhe county’s districts to follow that VACCINES, continued from page 1 Trustee Dan Patton What are your expectations for a new superintendent? I’m looking for someone who can connect with our community — commit lo our com­ munity — and values the importance of see­ ing where you live. What -arc your thoughts about Superintendent Dan Remenap’s decision to accept the superintendent’s post at Thornapple Kellogg school district? I would say the bones of Hastings Area School System remain in place, so I don’t believe Remenap’s departure will leave a big void. Mr. Remenap got a two-year extension in June of 2020, so obviously the board felt like he was doing a good job." Trustee Louis Wiertnga What are your expe<blt,ons ^or n ncw superintendent? I want somebody who’s honest and kind of forward-thinking. We wc had lhat with Dan Remenap. I’m looking for some­ body who is going to be loyal to us and someb°dy who’s going to be thcrc when we don’1 Pass a bond or don’t quit* do lhinSs lhe waY he thinks we should. What arc your thoughts about Superintendent Dan RenH*nnP’‘i dccLsion to ««Pt the SUpcrinl«i«,eJn.‘;t1 P°s‘ Thomapple Kello™ scW1 d|slrict; . । can’t blame Remenap f°rm0V1"g becausc he S bettering himself I*lhinks’ lhoraapple Kellogg Schools had bl-lirt f,nd a replacem«>t bfcause 1 think he’s using schools as,stePP'ng stones to get where I* wanls 10 g0’ Ihistee Jennifer East#’a“ , What are your expe^110”5 f°r “ ncw “Perlntendent’ , ’’m looking for an«ne'Be"C,’l""ovalive an<I forwanl-ihinkinc Ira^ a eader 'vho *'|1 listen to the coniniuoW wd scl’°°l trict needs • Jcd’J m front of their -rnX'X wil > d?‘siOnS pZ'A «xctre^u“ a ,e- What arf, ^Pcrintendent thoughts about d“kl,0" '** ,hi' ^St^Xuicr ” - A map of Barry County shows the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in each township, since the start of the pandemic. (Graphic provided) Health Officer Colette Scrimger told the Barry County Board of Commissioners on Oct. 27. “We’re not seeing an increase in testing,” she said then. “We’re seeing an increase in the positivity nite and that’s telling us that there’s more virus circulating. We’d like it (the posi­ tivity rate) to be under 3 percent.” When Scrimger made these comments, the positivity rate was 6 percent in Barry County. Both Wednesday and Thursday of last week marked positivity rales of more than 20 per­ cent in Barry Counly. Bany-Eaton District Health Department official Taylor Olsabeck said many of these cases are resulting from social gatherings and events and workplaces. "A lot of our outbreaks are happening al manufacturing places,” Olsabeck said. According to a map on BEDHD’s website, the areas with lhe highest rates of infection per population include Yankee Springs Township, Hope Township, Thornapple Township and the City of Hastings. Eaton County reported 449 active cases, with 180 probable cases, for a total of 3,140 eases since March, Eaton Counly has had 44 deaths due lo COVID. BEDHD community health promotion spe­ cialist Sarah Suma said an epidemiologist is looking into why Eaton Counly has had a higher number of deaths per case diagnosed than Barry’ County, “A lot of our outbreaks are happening at manufacturing places." Taylor Olsabeck, Barry-Eaton District Health Department official Visit Santa Downtown On Friday ami Saturday, kids and iheir families can see and lalk to Santa Claus to the front wmdow of At Home Real , Stale Sheet,in Hastings Stop£‘n Fnday between 5 and 7 p m £,d Saturday between 11 a.m.and 1 p,„ S?" p m. to 5 pan. The location will bi eoUtol, With microphones and speakers ro to* children to talk to Sama. Social X .d 6 feet win be marked off on �Too imsunos Banner-Thursday- Residents can view meetings virtually 'U£\Kr°ncheck be allowed^ 1 Unmute them ~ so they will be allowed to comment for the record. A a ,r V S<i.nRS Arca Schools t^nccUn2 in person over the summer, ln£s Arca School System Board of virtually'1 W1U ** conductinE its meetings the* lb On Monday. Nov. 23, the board met remotely using Zoom and the public was able to view the meeting via Liveslream on e istnct s Facebook page. The format of me next meeting is still undecided. Administrative Assistant Kelly Tobias said, if board members are able to meet in person, they will do so. It depends on whether the slate will allow' in-person meetings to resume al that time. The next meeting is scheduled for 7 pan. Monday, Dec. 14. To find out how the school board will meet — in person or via remote access — check lhe school system’s Facebook page. Rutland Charter Tbwnship After meeting in-person for much of the spring and summer, the Rutland Charter Township Board of Trustees will meet remotely for the first time. The next regular meeting, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 8, will be via Zoom. A link to join the meeting will be available on the township’s website. Hastings Charter Township The Hastings Charter Township Board of Trustees mostly met in person throughout lhe spring and summer. But with the recent order from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Sen ices limiting public gatherings, board members are considering meeting virtually. This month's meeting, originally scheduled for Dec. 7. was postponed until Dec. 15 at 7 p.m. On the township website, board members write that if a Zoom meeting is required, a public link would be available online. Hastings City Council Virtual attendance has become lhe routine for Hastings City Council meetings. City Manager Jerry Czarnecki said a Zoom meeting link to join council meetings is available on the city’s website, on the “departments” drop-down menu, then click “Dept, information” and select “council agenda, minutes, packets.” The next council meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Monday. Dec. 14. Hastings Downtown Development Authority After holding meetings outdoors, lhe DDA has opted to continue its meetings in a virtual format, due to expected inclement weather. A Zoom meeting link will be available on the Hastings City website’s DDA tab. The next meeting will start at 8 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 17. Hastings Planning Commission: Similar to the city council, the Hastings Planning Commission will have a Zoom meeting link available on lhe city’s website to allow the public to attend. The next meeting will take place at 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 7. Barry' Counly Board of Commissioners After conducting some in-person meetings during the summer months, the Barry County Board of Commissioners has transitioned back to remote meetings. The next meeting, a Committee of the Whole session, will start at 9 a.m. Tuesday. Dec. 8. A public link lo join the meeting is available on the Barry' County website. Memorial service for Middleville president postponed Greg Chandler Staff Writer The memorial service for Middleville Village President Charlie Pullen scheduled for Saturday has been postponed until sometime in spring 2021. Village Manager Patricia Rayl announced the postponement in an email Wednesday morning. The service was to have been at lhe Sesquicentennial Pavilion downtown. The initial plan was to have only family and close friends of Pullen under the pavilion and have others listen lo lhe senice over a loudspeaker as they sat in their vehicles. The village Tuesday had announced that it would stream lhe service via Facebook. “We were afraid we’d get a very large crowd dow’ntown.” Rayl said. “There has been such an outpouring of support and sympathy. We were concerned about keeping everyone safe.” Under the most recent restrictions issued by lhe Michigan Department of Health and Human Services in response to the COVID19 virus, outdoor gatherings are limited to no more than 25 people. Pullen, who served on lhe village council for 18 years, including 11 years as president, died Nov. 20 at Spectrum Health Pennock Hospital of complications from COVID-19. He was 71. His death came just 17 days after he was re-elected to another two-year term as village president. The village will make an announcement when a new date is set for lhe memorial service, Rayl said. INTERNET, continued from page 1 broadcasts through their house. “I also use my work cell phone from 8 lo 5,” he said. “The speeds are very, very slow and not dependable. We have failed to get either of the tower-based providers: MEI, which has towers al the Barry County fair­ grounds and near Gun Lake, and Freedom Nel in Middleville near the Thomapple Kellogg bus garage. Neither of these two are accessi­ ble because of elevation. Williamson told commissioners, “A couple vears ago. a Grand Rapids-based family bought a parcel next to me. ...Then I received a text message: Hey Ken,... our bu.lder s all lined uo who do 1 contact to set up internet? lined p... j rcp|ie(j: ‘You're kidding. Sorry, dude, your Realtor did not tell you you bought a piece of property in an biremet dead zone. You can't gel rehable (be|e was a For of propcrty and the jn Byron Center, w conlp|ajn or tarsriid, "but more to ask gu me’«e do as members of Ute Bany ^‘^mmunity to improve mtemet “XCSS? ’ id The Banner Tuesday that one Jackson w WI । s ;s money. , of the biggest chaii b fi| ^panics. Internet areas with higher so they naturally P more cuspopulation denst.y^s|s. tamers lower de slate and federal The situation jn iniproving internet grants a crucial pa since they mceninfastructuie in rur d where there are livize compand 10 , fewer custom^* thc grant MEI receive , Jackson pointed to th b ,hs fofWardfor and similar opportun,lKS- p Bany County- aiders are conside Other service P narry County­ forking their way mt Dra®^Sr5^afiLSS)^aKcoflnectiozLte_BUfflBi!^^ Sfd/j Wfjfer .nnrur and summer Rut wUk « school districts comi» governments and public bodies Un? Ulcs‘cven though these gatherings to preven ^c,u<led f«>m public And residents spread of COVID. participate in th ' ' s“>. “attend" and albeit virtually. publlc proceedings. Below is informs,; meetings j *'™1 onupcomhg virtual commissions in ‘thPb?,ard.s- cou,cils and citizens are watchi^,> la5Un8s On,“ nublic enmn, 11 these sessions, time for someconnectiX is J" internet hereOne week Sale sign on family ended P Tm not.“J® "g Cr0<>Ke(j Lake residents say detention bafii11 *s degrading water quality b Over lhe summer, ACD.net CEO Kevin Schoen said the company was considering applying for a $20 million grant to expand into Barry County. Great Lakes Energy is exploring a possible expansion in the Wayland and Barry County regions, although even if the company decid­ ed to move ahead with the project, in-home installations wouldn’t begin until 2022. “We’re pretty optimistic that it’s going to be a good five years for broadband expansion in Barry County," Jackson said. “However, five years seems like a long time.” In the meantime, families have had to find workarounds, such as Verizon hotspots. School officials said they have ended up with lhe unexpected - but necessary - costs for purchasing hotspots so they can be shared with families during the pandemic. “internet access is a huge challenge for us.” Hastings Superintendent Dan Remenap said. “Our hotspot bill is huge and paying for the service to them is very, very expensive, loo.” A survey conducted by Hastings Area School System last spring showed about 30 percent of students did not have reliable access to technology and lhe internet. A similar survey by Thomapple Kellogg Schools showed more than 20 percent of stu­ dents use cellular hotspots, while 54 percent did not have any internet access al all. Delton Kellogg Superintendent Kyle Corlell said about 100 of the district’s G(X> families reported not having reliable internet access. “I sincerely hope some good will come from this in a long-term investment in Wi-Fi technology in rural areas, just like lhe electri­ cal cooperatives that seemed to flourish post-Deprcssion era in the ‘30s,” Maple Valley Superintendent Katherine Bertolinj said. “This is the nexl essential utility in our world.” Upper concent low^hip has alleviated fl‘^idcnls hnw But nearb) np,ng arc h * basm and correspond0* j£|l water. n8 «n adverse effect on ,bc‘ "I’ve the owner of t1y rusty w home nonh of /?rv,s‘ 01 ^nxAed Lake, said Tucsdtf* icntion ba . Once months ago ’} neared full capacity a fc A’«ng with Said h,s problems 1*^ greased w 'ty water, he said he noticed ’’^r pressure. • We’ve nev^ wc do., Pnjblems before.” Jarvis saidy Drain, But Barry'c inl ftle p '^missioner Jim Dull disagrees onlyPc^,n8 has created lhe problems; Tn Wale^0cctton between the change ^(cnt.Qn quahiy and the pumping at the asm is timing, he Jarvis isn’t the on'y one experiencing My biggest observation is the retention basin is built on a gravel ph," Osborne said. ‘With ft being a gravel pit, we know that some of the water is moving back toward the lake.” The next step, in Osborne’s opinion, would be to stop pumping. Jarvis agreed, adding that lhe drainage 'district should be charged for the damage to the wells. "I think lhe health department should come lest each one of those wells for coliform," Osborne said. Sarah Suma, community health promotion specialist at the health department, recommended that residents contact stale officials at EGLE instead of calling the health department. Meanwhile, Audrie Kirk,district supervisor of the EGLE Water Resources Division in Grand Rapids, said they do not have jurisdiction over private wells, or pumping, jurisdiction over pn “acTm directed questions to the health department. EGLE cannot reg-top P Rutland Township to / >te on 2021 r“- ’ ' i budget “whita DuH could -urn on nndtff a pump whenever he wants, accor t g guidelines, the infrastructure nee that water has to be approved by ‘ • Kirk said she personally *PPr‘>v“L± permit to allow Dull to build the slrv^™ necessary to move water north from PI Crooked Lake. . . But now, with those structures tn place Kirk does not have the authority to tell Put whether he should have those pumps turned on or off. That’s the drain commissioner s call, she said. it might affect the community’s image. “I d rather see Middleville be known for its trail, for its downtown business, for its small-town (character], those kinds of things," he said. French said she doubted a business would come into the community offering only medi­ cal marijuana. “I think it’s really great that medical or provisioning centers would be allowed, but I doubt there’s many people that would go into that venture without [including] adult recre­ ational use also,” French said. “I don’t see it not being a dual license. “I have been to over a dozen [business­ es] around lhe stare and none of them have been only medicinal or only adult use, since the rules changed." Another issue discussed Tuesday was whether the local ordinance should include a required background check. Applicants already have to go through a background check with the stale to be pre-qualified to operate a marijuana-based business. “It’s a very thorough background check.” DeVries said of the state requirement. “However, wc have no access to [those results]. Thai’s why we left it in [lhe draft],” Commissioners were split on lhe local requirement. “I think the village is going to want to do their own background checks, since we're not going to get access lo the state’s," Holzhauscn said. Commissioner Mike Cramer, the planning commission’s liaison to the village council, responded with a flat “absolutely not." Cramer said he sees potential liability and cost issues for lhe village with requiring a local background check. “If something comes up, something hap­ pens and there’s a problem with their [local] background check, it’s on us,” Cramer said. “If the state says they have a good license and there’s a problem with the background check, it’s on the state, it’s not on us. “We can immediately suspend their busi­ ness without having any of lhe problems of we didn't conduct the background check. That’s manpower that we don’t have. "Who’s going to conduct the background checks?” he asked. "Who’s going to pay for the background checks? Who’s going to make sure every time they have turnover, we’re making sure we’ve got another background check? Now we’re micromanaging a business that we shouldn’t be.” Village Manager Patricia Rayl said she would consult with village attorney Mark Nettleton to confirm Cramer’s liability con­ cerns. “That should be something that he can quickly answer," Rayl said. The village council is expected to get its first look at the proposed ordinance at a com­ mittee of the whole meeting in early January. Then the planning commission would hold a public hearing early next year to seek public comments on the proposal. °Perating taxes. , . , , , The only signify"1 he'^." ‘he township's 2020 2021 ,s an increase in planniMl,ne ‘"creased from 5^’ 10 $2?W1 s.,nce ,he township is curtd# ,he servlces of " Planning consults’110 “Pda,c l,s master Plan anddraftamariiu»»30'<1,nancc■■We are looking’1 our m:,stcr P’"n “d lhe NearlyCHRiSTMAsfAND u l0^nshin board n^!,ng’ Iruslce Ocne Hall X mcome ,or township wny projv . t() H±nco."’p1id‘l,al Gucmsey paid nmiNifOH CtnSSIFItOS: MONIHV, Dtc. 21M 2 F.M htconie 'halted anX^±°rc "AeT* fr°m fonh CSS|lr lhe ur me public on “h*"'a,ld 9 n,ee‘inP >s provided t°wnshiP’s website. . Middleville village leaders scrutinize marijuana proposal PrFour other sim.iIar issues with theft '^t"r Wily. In addition, water at one hon* Positive for coliform Greg Chandler bacteria. _ Staff Writer “It appears to on some days than others," said Jflrv iS spcnt some time ■ For nearly two hours Tuesday, the reaching out to ' Jovernment agencies Middleville Planning Commission poured for help. He ha* • cd the Barry-Eaton over the draft language of a proposed ordi­ District Health and the Michigan nance that would allow’ marijuana-based busi­ nesses in the village. Department of I-n cnt, Grcat Laj(cs an(j In lhe end, commissioners seemed to be no EnDufi also has been high on jarvis, con(act closer to deciding how to allocate licenses ■whether to have a limit on thc number list. Jarvis said he was really upSCt about Dull ‘approved - or using zoning to regulate mari­ “spending my money lrrespOnsuJ|y.. he said. juana-based businesses. “We have not made a decision on whether “He spent $2 million lo alleviate a problem or not to put in a number, what that number that hasn’t been fixed. might be or if there should be a number (on “Now he’s creating a ga-ater problem." Dull credited the decrease in Water quality licenses),” commission Chairman Jason to the normal rust tendencies of a wej] pipjng Holzhauscn said. “The chances of our first draft going to council, and council giving us system. The only evidence that the rusty water was thc thumbs-up, is probably not 100 percent. “It would be a matter of do we want to put caused by pumping is that they both started a number in. what that number should be or if around lhe same time, he said. “How much money should we put on the we should omit a number and rely just on drainage district?” Dull remarked. “There are zoning.” Some commissioners said they thought lhe some casts that just come with being a decision should be left lo the village council. homeowner.” “I would rather see council make that deci­ Larry Osborne, a Ban)'Township resident, has expressed concerns about the detention sion myself," commissioner Fran French said. Commissioner Maria Gustinis, who was basin. part of lhe ordinance committee that put together the draft language, expressed con­ cern about numerical limits. “We have a potential interested party who would be in the grower side of the industry,” (Gustinis said, “If you allow for one or tu'o 'growers, and with limitations in lhe zoning requirements, there may not be an opportunity for other businesses to come into the village.” The numerical allocation option being con­ sidered would place a limit on two licenses to be allowed for growers; one license for a retail operation, provisioning center that would provide medical marijuana, or micro­ business; two licences for safely compliance facilities; and three licenses for secure trans­ porters. Applicants would be able to apply for more than one license. The zoning option would allow retail stores, provisioning centers and microbusi­ nesses only in areas zoned for highway com­ Sophie Bates mercial use - generally along M-37 - with Staff Writer growing facilities only allowed in industri­ The Rutland Charter Township Board will al-zoned areas, primarily on the village’s vote to adopt a 2021 budget al its Dec. 9 meet­ north side. ing. which will be conducted virtually. In addition, no marijuana-based facility According to both township Clerk Robin would be allowed within 1.000 feet of a Hawthorne and township Treasurer Sandra school, church or child care facility. Greenfield, the 2021 budget is nearly the Commissioner Tom DeVries, who also was same as the 2020 budget — besides some part of the ordinance committee, sees some minimal changes - since thc township cre­ concents with the numeric limits. ates each budget ba^ off <be previous year. “From a fairness point of view, I had a "We look last yc* whal wc wc cal’ problem with one retail, one provisioning culate a little raise here or a little raise there,” (center) and one micro,” DeVries said. "First Greenfield said.,‘^Prelty much come in the of all, it’s very unlikely we’re going to get a same each year.” c . micro,according to lhe information I received. Hie township revenues of approx!- I’m personally in favor of provisioning, which mately $473 943 and expenditures of is medical ... I have no problem with more 5455.678 and no anticipated surplus. These than one medical [marijuana center]." numbers are close to ">e actual 2020 revenue DeVries also shared his concern with "nd expenditures; f* *,h'“®n*.of Oclobcr allowing a retail marijuana business and how 2020. the township l>:,d S67-780 ,n revenues “ntl S44378 in expendl,ures: As far as expen**- ~ ™s“ °r, lar8c Pur’ chases are planned for 2021 On the revenue ^de. the township!’ ““P? ’"8<^MX)?0 state revenue shalW and ^109.993 tn local "If a land wntmc1''?11 "1C ,ownshiP-so "’ey “n longer “cludsd^" P"*"*"* monthly ' NEW YEAR'S DAY DEADLINES " NEW YEAR'S DEADLINES Deadline for ADS: Monday. Dec. 28 at Noon Deadline for NEWS: Monday. Dec. 28 at Noon Deadline for CLASSIFIEDS: Monday. Dec. 28 al 2 p.m. Papers will be on lhe newsslands Tuesday. Dec. 22nd and Tuesday, Dec. 29th �1 "Uday, December 3. 2020 — The Hastingr. Bannc' Utnmm Rome’s burning, it’s t,n’e to Stop fiddling around lumbering After decades of absence in Southwest ^’chigan. beaver numbers have been increasing over the past several years. While the industrious fur-bearing animal shies away from humans, evidence of their tree-cutting work can be seen across lhe Barry County. This tree by Hall Lake in Yankee Springs Township is in the process of being felled by bea­ vers. Do you remember? United drive Banner Oct. II, 1972 Out for money - Hastings Junior High Students, as others in area schools, are conducting their United Fund drive, and the pupils of Robert Montgomery’s 8th grade class really are out to beat all other junior high classes. The Hastings school staff and students always have been generous supporters of United Community Fund drives, and this year is no exception. The regular staff drive was the first division to turn in a report for the current effort, well over the 1971 total. Leading the 8th grade cheer Monday morning were Carrie Robleski, Megan West, Shari Ward, Debbie Barlow, Mr. Montgomery, Wayne Wright and Matthew Blood. Have you met? Deb Button always wanted to own her own business. When the opportunity to fulfill her dream arrived, it did so from an unexpected source — her father. In the mid-1980s, Don Button was a retired banker — with little to no experience in retail —looking for an enjoyable activity to occupy his time. He was contemplating buying the for-sale local store Hodges Jewelry & Gifts, which has been in Hastings since 1931. At the time. Deb Button — a Kalamazoo native with a bachelor’s degree in fashion merchandizing and interior design from Western Michigan University — was working as a product buyer for Amway, a Michigan-based multi-level marketing company. In other words, she had exactly the expertise Don Button needed to help him run the store. So, she and her parents took a trip to Hastings to check out Hodges Jewelry & Gifts. ”... on the way home, my dad asked what I thought, and I said, ‘We should buy it,’” Button recalled. “When Mom and Dad bought the store, he didn’t know anything about retailing, so he asked if I’d come join them, and I said yes because that was always a dream of mine to have my own store.” With his daughter on board. Don Button and his wife. Nan. bought Hodges in 1985. Deb Button quit her job and took over managing the store’s merchandise while her father, ever the banker, kept their books in order. „ , . . . “I’ve always done al! the buying, and Dad does lhe bookworkButton said. "He has always let me have pretty much free rem with that.” _ . . Thirty-five years later. Button and her father still work together; although she bought the store from her dad and is now the Button attends two gift shows and two jewelry shows each year, hunttng for he newest and best products to add to the store’s merchandise. ‘ One day [of die showJ ,s . da!> m 1 ^y’^g working with vendors and that merchandise. worMUfe sort of thing.'' Button said. I try to find What'S new and dtflere^ Bu,|on ,w))s Among ''er » chimes> purses, decora candles. household glassware, umbrella^ can and kitchen items ano, Deb Button variety of rings, bracelets, necklaces and more. Hodges Jewelry & Gifts also offer, jewelry repairs, cleaning, replacements, and other services. “I have a very large repair department, and so by doing the repairs, you hear a lot of sentimental stories because that’s what jewelry is — you hear a lot about the jewelry,” Button said. “We have people come in with boxes of jewelry their folks have that go back to the ’50s. “They talk about the history of their jewelry, and I just enjoy working with them.” By nature of being a small business — particularly a family-owned and familyoriented one — Button said she hopes to provide superior customer service. “Customer service has always been our mainstay. It’s always been something that’s very important because if you don’t have good customer service, you’re not going to be around,” Button said. “When a customer comes in, we try to recognize them. When a customer has a repair, we try lo work with them, and you’re not going to gel that at a big-box store or out of town. As part of their customer service efforts, Button is Finding ways to make sure her customers feel safe while shopping during the pandemic. “We can do curbside pickup, which is very difficult in a jewelry store, but we are willing to bring it out and show it to them “ she said. “We just want to make people led comfortable, as far as shopping.” “We’re pretty proud of our customer service.” she added In her free lime. Button sings with the larkcw’ood Area Choral Society and has lor 22 years. She also has sened on the Barry County Chamber of Commerce Board for 15 years and the Barry County United Way Board for 25 tears. For her dedication to quality customer service and Service in the community. Deb Button is thH w eek’s Banner Bright Light. First jolrc Besides babysitting, it was at Probasco’s. a family-owned fabric store in Kalamazoo. 1 worked there Wednesday nights andj Saturdays. All through high school. I sewed all the time, so this was a great job. h also taught me my love of retailing. What I bought with my first paycheck: a suede maxi-coal with fur on the collar and sleeves. Person I admire: My(bd because of his love for family and what he has taught me about leading and following m business and in my personal life. o Favorite book: “The Giving Tree.” Favorite movie: “Gone*’di l,ie Wind.” Favorite vacation deMinat,’on: Europe. Favorite cartoon character: Winnie the Pooh. Favorite song: "It B Well wi|h My Soul.” Favorite dinner: Lan*choPs* . Favorite part of mV j°l,; with customers - particu^l,,ose scck,ng repairs on old family jewdO n . Other interests: Tn^' Broadway theater, singing with the Arca Choral Society and beine •|lh . Right now, the small businesses that define the many small cities, towns and vil­ lages in Michigan are in crisis. h may already be too late to save some of them. Some readers may say: What the heck can I do about it? It’s a free country. They’re in business to make money. So. they close. So what? So many things: These small businesses contribute to the health and vitality of thc communities they serve. They employ peo­ ple. They provide goods and services and experiences that define the places they inhabit and attract other businesses that pro­ vide goods and services, too. They are part of what make the places we call Hastings and Middleville and Delton and other towns across the region unique and charming. The relationships between businesses and the people they serve help define the com­ munity and, ultimately, raise the quality of life. And those benefits are reciprocal. We’re not talking about some behemoth chain store. We’re talking about our neigh­ bors who put the money that’s spent at their businesses right back in to the community. As a result, residents who support these businesses help support the quality of life where they live. The impact of the pandemic on small businesses has been devastating. The first statewide closure was applied to all nonessential businesses. But, this time, the state singled out for closure many small, locally owned businesses, restaurants and bars and bowling alleys, even those that were taking great care to protect their cus­ tomers. According to Bridge Magazine, an esti­ mated 2,000 Michigan restaurants already have closed permanently because of the pandemic. The Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Industry says its surveys indicate 8JXXJ restaurants in the state could close perma­ nently over the course of the pandemic. The University of Michigan economic forecast predicts that, two years from now. the hotel and restaurant industry will likely have 83 5b0 fewer jobs?1’ ‘1 For these struggling small businesses, the current closure will likely be the coup de grace. Much like a wildfire in California, what’s happening now in Michigan has thc power to wipe oui a part of the longtime local land­ scape we may never see again. Ever hear the phrase “fiddling while Rome bums?” That’s what’s happening right now in Lansing. State officials clearly were hoping federal sources would bring in thc big bucks to douse lhe pandemic, but the clock is ticking down to Dec. 31 with no federal relief pack­ age in sight. Monday, members of lhe Michigan Municipal League called for slate lawmak­ ers to adopt a community stabilization plan to help shore up local government so cities in Michigan can continue to provide essen­ tial public services. “2021 looks to be quite challenging,” said Eric Scorsone. a Michigan State University expert in municipal finance who participat­ ed in a press conference about the plan. The pandemic’s impact on cities will be on a par with the impact of the Great Recession, but perhaps even worse, Scorsone said during .he P- conference, Sco.s<»if sa.- .virtuaHy Io bus, nc^ s<^" couid ul.in.Mely help (.•ura^suSrtcdm^’Xw U nesses with SI 5 million to help lhc‘" er and restart in response to thc pandemic, but that’s not enough either. r-Aorc Nearly $100 million in federal CAKLb Act funding has been directed to help 14J000 small businesses across the state. And another S10 million in CARLS Act funding was approved this week for t e Pure Michigan Small Business Relief Initiative to provide $15,000 grants starting Dec. 15. Again, it’s just not enough. These are drops of water in a proverbial bucket; hardly sufficient to put out the fire now raging across the state. Slate legislators returned to work Tuesday. We call upon them now to act decisively, in an urgent and bipartisan fash­ ion, to support small businesses across Michigan. (If you are one of the readers who just asked what you could do to help save small businesses in Bany County, we have an answer to your question: You can call on the governor and slate legislators, too. Their names and contact information are at the bottom of the facing page.) Significant additional state resources must be tapped - and soon - to save these small businesses. The measures proposed lo help small businesses thus far are all nice but, frankly, it’s chump change when weighed in the balance of what's at stake. Lei’s get serious. Wc rum your attention to the state's rainy day fund of nearly $1 billion. "Clearly, this is what the rainy day fund is for.” former Lt‘ Gov. Brian Calley, now president of the Small Business Association of Michigan, told Bridge Magazine this past spring. Here’s what legislators need to do: Take a chunk of that rainy day fund (realizing that a portion of it is being used to offset a short­ fall in the state budget) and invest it in locally-owned small businesses. The Paycheck Protection Program offers a tem­ plate to follow. 'Die slate could provide five-year no-in­ terest loans to all qualifying small business­ es that would then pay that money back.The program could go through local banks, not state government, lo scrutinize a simple form that would confirm whether the busi­ nesses meet the criteria to ensure a standard of fairness in meting out lhe money. Thc pandemic has created a raft of com­ plicated problems, but this one is really quite simple: A raging wildfire of a pandemic is destroying small businesses in Michigan. The state’s rainy day fund holds nearly $1 billion. Use it. Rebecca Pierce, Editor in Chief Best leather: ToinWrf' °w “hw1l |l.oy Norm) d'd cl,0la groups. concerts ^«>u^a s'1 was VCr>ll,U(;k>'«haveleame<lfi2?.h'n’mvself Best advice ever rctf'*1’ . \ andBK-glass was always tdf-full'n0,halfempty. Norite memories: =>* »>y days Off. [7or the U5* -8 Wednesdays h .< u «pwwn as Aunl nay- 1'have a niece i C?ry Wedne' ^. t.i — while">4 they «ere;.;owi play games"8 lunch or ‘ ° °n. n< talk lhe !,,ner much TlnarC £her,sh* Wedn i between I ’it makcs1 sh°P’. ,lave or Just S*1 and pientories. Not these special , iys Aunt Deh-’.f,, (l p^rum who ‘ l,ii' dinner rr' ‘ [)0 you know .“”nn""uty j because oj r ,H‘ tonality, fur the sttirjf,^ -f ‘'"A> hm-lasing I' other reason/ ,u( Ur hns I" tell ajamg.s Banner, 13.5/ / to Xewsro^ „ Ml 7W.M; ,)r _ ,,h ^J-^ophies t^ Elaine Garlock Downtown Lake Odessa is already decorated for Christmas. Thc lamp posts have their seasonal look: navy* blue pennants with a snowflake design and the world “Welcome” above it. Lights have been posted on the ornamental trees. Garland is wrapped around lamp posts. Individuals were invited to contribute S20 to provide lhe wrap for one post. The donor’s name would Ik attached. It could be in honor of someone or in memory. Several homes have decorations in place, including some inflatable figures that respond to each passing breeze. Thanksgiving dinners are past. One family met at their extended dining room table in order to be six feel apart. A visiting family was al one end of lhe table and lhe hostess was at thc opposite end. They had their window open so there would be fresh air circulating. The exodus has begun with some residents already departed for southern climes. One family, whose son will not be home for Christmas but was here lor Thanksgiving did their decorating early complete with ( hristmas true and ornaments so lhe son could enjoy this part of the holiday even though he will not be present in December because of his Florida job. They enjoyed Thanksgiving dinner together with their tree in the next room. The Lake Odessa Community Library’ is closed to traffic, but the outer lobby is open during the usual hours. Stall' membets can retrieve materials for leaders, send faxes or do other tasks to accommodate their patrons. Socks, mittens, waterproof gloves for leen.s and knit caps are still needed for the community ( hristmas basket project sponsored by the Lakewood Community Services. �Tl D1,cpmber3.2020- -Pa9o5 Th*? Hastings Banner — Thursday______ _ —------------ ____ guest editorial Congfe5S,0lla’ action needed to protect small businesses establish r^nomic Security (CARFSi Belief in unfounded conspiracies can inreaten democracy - and our lives To the editor: • J1 S "here to start. so 1 will \.’dentifying myself, which should ; \oke little argument. I have lived on coun­ it toads m rural communities since 19X0 and 'fov? rd,?CVl^e Jownship. Barn- County since • * am liberal and progressive, but a member of no political party. 1 recognize that the majority of voters in Barry C ounty in 2020 supported President inimp over President-elect Biden. So, it is probable that we might have .some disagree­ ments about government policies and the success of frump’s administration. But I am not the enemy. Just this weekend. Donald frump referred to individuals like me as “hor­ rible people” and “people who don't love their country.' 1 love America. But 1 don’t equate that with loving Donald Trump. 1 have some relatives, friends, acquaintanc­ es and Facebook friends who supported Donald Trump. I don't understand why they believed that this self-centered New York City billionaire - who cheated on all his wives, his business partners and contractors, students al his “university,” donors to his charities and the IRS - was telling the truth before, and I sure don't understand why anyone still believes him now. The two most important “conspiracies” people still accept as true because Donald Trump backed them before - and, in one case, still backs - are that the election was stolen from him and that the coronavirus pandemic is not dangerous, widely spread or controlla­ ble by simple public health measures. These are not just matters of political disagreement. The election conspiracy theory endangers our democracy. And the coronavirus theory' endangers our very lives. Il can be dangerous to believe in these conspiracy theories now. There is not enough space here for lengthy argument. But as Trump appointee Judge Stephanos Bibas wrote in his decision when he tossed out an election-fraud claim in Pennsylvania. “Free, fair elections are the lifeblood of our democracy. Charges of unfair­ ness are serious. But calling an election unfair does not make it so. Voters, not lawyers, choose the president. Ballots, not briefs, decide elections." Donald Trump lost the election because more people voted for Joe Biden than for him and more Electoral College votes will be cast for Joe Biden than for him. There have been countless claims of elec­ tion fraud from Mr. Trump, his lawyers, and have received I ing millions evX “* SUPP°rters- T*1'* hns been no b wenh .Prc^n,vd- Thirty-<nght or 39 of the . SUIIS •*'!'■« been tossed out. denied or with• .?"r [h,S shou,d leU y°u something. This 1 fakc news.” Check it out, if you think I am wrong. Somehow, you have to believe that the sec­ retaries ot slate of both parties of all 50 states; the thousands ot election officials all over the country, the governors of all states that have certified the election results, including Republican Gov. Kemp of Georgia; judges of several states, district courts, appeals courts and supreme courts, director of cybersecurity and infrastructure security agency, and the 16 federal prosecutors all appointed by Donald 1 rump who reported that there was no elec­ tion fraud were all involved in a conspiracy. Il defies common sense. It doesn’t pass the smell lest. Tlte other conspiracy theory’ that worries me is the belief that somehow malignant forc­ es have invented or exaggerated a disease, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. to attack President Trump, to swing the presidential election, to damage the United States, or most ridiculously “to take away our freedoms.” Unfortunately, this theory becomes harder to believe as each day goes on because the dis­ ease threat is real. More and more people are contracting the infection, becoming hospitalized, suffering terribly and. worst of all. dying all over the world, the United Stales, Michigan and even Barry County. Most of us now know- someone who went into the hospital or died from COVID-19. My Aunt Gaby died March 21, one of the first people in Michigan to die from COVID. Just this weekend, a fellow musician 1 have played with died in Kalamazoo from COVID. ' To deny or minimize the real threat from COVID, one has to believe that millions of doctors, nurses, other health care workers, public health officials and responsible public servants at all levels of government are involved in this conspiracy. Once again, think about this. It defies common sense. Even if we disagree about issues, policies and candidates, I am not your enemy, and you are nor my enemy. I do believe, however, that to indulge in conspiracy theories can lead one to become their own worst enemy. Dr. Kenneth M. Komheiser, Prairieville Township J (^Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). State Representative Julie Calley, Republican. 87th District (All of Barry County), Michigan House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate. Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; U.S. mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. U.S. House of Representatives Justin Amash, Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ 5144. District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, phone (616) 451-8383. U.S. Senate Debbie Stabenow, Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510 Phone (202) 224-4822. rnrv Peters, Democrat. 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510oono nhone (248 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room 720 11° Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 233- 91£°'Kent's comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Cap 77 mation line for Congress and the Senate: 1-202-224-3121. The Hastings Banner advertising department . r publisher & CEO Hank Schuuring Scott Ommen Mike Gilmore *L ?'erCe • Rcb Maurer (C°Py E(h}°0 Katli(Spans Editor) Sophie Bales Greg Chandlef Luke Froncheck Taylor Owens Ty Greenfield Jennie Yonker Subscription Rates: $52 per yoar in Barry County $00 pot yea' *n adjoining counties * $65 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER StJixl addrew P.O Box 186 HasthSsMHeOW-O’W SucO'id Class Pelage Pad at Hastings. Ml ated with th"*inlLi (??qx’ses;Loun forgiveness was , ’(j , LJ as tax-free to keep workerse^ y unng the pandemic. However. Uy congressio­ nal intent by ar,nL’ that borrow­ ers who expect the lOtin to be forgiven cannot deductthe *l*"s*s on their fed­ eral tax returns t11 e interpretation, a business own# Sc PPP proceeds to preserve payro*1 t0 deduct the pay­ roll and other ordinarily deductible expens­ es. Bills have becn ,n^uced in the Senate and in the House to ix this problem, but a solution also could x inserted into a much needed year-end federal stimulus package. Either way. it needs to happen quickly. As active participants in the business com­ munity, we feel it»s imperative to ensure that these same businesses are not subjected to additional and unexpected taxes as they con­ tinue to struggle to survive. |[ js obvious this pandemic is not yet over, and realization of Congressional intent will pro­ vide a much-needed indirect stimulus through tax savings to the business owners who need it most. Bob Doyle. President and CEO, Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants Richard Lamb, President, Michigan Press Association Borrowers eligible for PPP loan forgive­ ness have spent the funds as the program directed. If those businesses are not allowed to deduct these expenses, they may be forced to spend additional funds to pay taxes on the loan proceeds — funds they may not have. We feel that passing this legislation as quickly as possible will provide small busi­ ness owners more certainty as they focus on year-end business planning which is especial­ ly important in these challenging economic times. We strongly advocate the passage of legis­ lation and urge immediate Congressional action to protect American businesses in these trying times. Michigan Press Association highlights need for public notices MAKING OUR LO moreaccounta • The Michigan Press Association is commuted to mailing sure Michigan citizens ate able to access information about what government officials are doing in their communities. • Michigan is already near the bottom of the fifty states for transparency and removing public notices from an independent third party will add to the lack of transparency for Michigan citizens. • If we kill focal community newspapers citizens will be pushed to go to polarized websites and cable media sources where information is biased and not always factual. • Expanding government responsibility to take over a task that has been functioning for 250 years in the private sector seems a waste of taxpayer money. Newspapers provide a buffer between government and citizens with an independent watchdog role. • Public notice is an important tool in providing the public with resources to be informed. • Providing these notices in various formats while maintaining a permanent legal record is vital to governmental integrity and accountability. • Using an independent source to provide public notice protects the public. • In a recent poll 65% of Michigan citizens said they trust local newspapers ot their local newspapers websites as the place to find public notices of government activities • 68% of respondents in the same poll felt that placing notices in newspapers or on local newspapers websites is the most effective way of making governmental activities known • Using government only websites to post public notices disenfranchises low income and older citizens. • Newspapers are the most effective method of providing permanent, archivable, independent records of governmental activities like zoning changes, fee increases and other happenings that impact the wallets and property of Michigan citizens. TRANSPARENT-ACCESSIBLE-ACCOUNTABLE D The Brian Calley, President, Small Business Association of Michigan Brian Calley. President. . Small Business Association of Michigan Bob Doyle, President and CEO, Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants Richard Limb. President. Michigan Press Association Questions to ask to protect against scams The holiday season can spark feelings of generosity and the desire to donate to worthy causes, but the giving season also can open the door to bad actors and scammers try ing to take advantage of unsuspecting charitable donors. “Every donation makes an impact.and I am proud to hold public office in a stale with such a strong philanthropic foundation." Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said Monday. “But I am committed to ensuring those donated dollars are going to the people and organizations they are intended for. “If you are thinking about making a charitable donation this holiday season, there are some simple steps you can lake to make sure your gift is being put to good use.” To avoid falling victim to a potential-scam residents should consider asking the following questions before making a donation to a charitable organization: • What is the name, address, and phone number of the organization? • Is the organization registered to solicit donations by the Michigan Department of Attorney General? What is the registration number? • How much of a donation will actually be used for the charity's purpose? • What's going to happen to donations? • Are donations tax-deductible? • Can donations he made online? The Michigan Nonprofit Association, in coordination with the Council of Michigan Foundations and the United Way. also have provided a resource in their “Giving Wisely" brochure, a joint publication that helps Michigan residents make smart choices when donating during the holiday season, while also reminding them of the importance of giving their time by volunteering. Nessel said her office has been working to protect Michiganders from falling victim to phony charities, including issuing consumer alerts related to charities and donations, and taking legal action to dissolve fraudulent organizations posing as charitable nonprofits. For more information about what to watch for before donating to a charily, visit dle attorney general's website. Michigan.gov ag. or call the AG's Charitable Trust Section at 517-335-7571. Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 HastingsBanner U'podlnndr Speedway Woodland l.tk A Superb Family MxkllvvJleMdfV.etphce Greg’s G:lltN Go MuiJicrJ!? Johnny s Clovcnlgle: NpshvjHy: IrjUJiy • L't. N LP. u ~nH* i Tom> Cl AVidak: Genera! Broin’s Cdar Cr.C< Giuwry Gpn.Lakei Hasting J|*WS Sam’s Gournie. F'xv/ Del tori: MV IWr/A PineJ.akv; Doster Country Store Dtkon Jdw.y s (M43 No"*1' C-r.^.ed a<k accepted Monday through Friday. 6 30am lo 5.00 pin newsroom ,e abilil-v lo associ­ OneStcpS^P'lWob) press releases: n^s&^dgrephlcs^ • Advert^ ads@padgraphic^ cam CFO ients of deductible deduct otherw*^^ HasfltW A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. ,351 N M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 n _ s, proluu*«ng hose Ims, and flfl Area Locations to purchase the Hastings Banner! Devoted to the Interests of Barry County since 1S56 pmmoay Hastings Banner, Inc. Frederic Jacobs ........ .. to. ‘ '’ The&neal510"1 Maralhon Megaft-’* Haste? 1**^' Family fa'« (M-37WW) Su,ion Pjrairievine: Pt.wkeulf Fast Stop • I G:-tT'rd' Si*'ie LJ.fO-Mi-.tt t.i'.e Qrnngeville: Orangeviiie Ld Stop Walgmen* Dikf Pdessur Banp^lfl: Polling; GoUbUCrthyS J" **;’>» * Cad $ Shelbyville; lam & Guitry �tj, (j .__ -r. • f-day, December 3. 20?0 Th u » r> fe&s—— The Hastings Banner Doctor w Universe Maintaining connections Dr. Universe: B Ay does the internet go down* Mia. Il. Sheridan, Wyo. Dear Mia. I he internet has helped many people connect with classmates, friends and family dining the pandemic. But you’re right, sometimes the connection gets lost. My friend Dingwcn Tao, an assistant professor of computer science at Washington State University, said we can think about the internet like a highway of information. You may remember from our question about how the internet works that infonnation, like the data that makes up your favor­ ite cal video or science website, travels through electronic signals we cannot sec with our eyes. Tao said these electrical signals also can move through a system of underground w ires and cables. The cables and wires go from where you are using the internet to a local internet office to a regional internet office. One reason the internet might go down is due to a broken link between these locations. Or these links might get overloaded with information. ‘’You and your neighbors can share the same link connected lo the central office,” Tao said. “It’s like people are sharing the same road, but sometimes if too many peo­ ple are using the same road, there will be a lot of traffic.” When there is more information than the links — like those cables or the electrical signals — can handle, then the internet might go down. Tao said a few other things can get in the way of electrical signals. For example, even a thick wall can block Wi-Fi signals that carry’ information deliver­ ing, say. your favorite podcast. If you arc in one room, and the router — a device that picks up signals and pushes them to their destination — is in another room, you may lose the signal. Nature also can play a part in making your internet go down,Tao said. A tree may fall and knock out some wires during a big storm, or a fire may cause damage to cables. The disaster even could be hundreds of miles away from you and closer to the regional internet office. But because you are connected to the central office, you and your neighbors might still lose your internet ser­ vice. The connections we can make online arc important, so many people around the world are helping bring internet to places that don’t have internet access or where it is real­ ly slow. Here in Washington, some of my friends at the university are working on a project to help people across the state get access to the internet, including in rural places. 1 he work is helping students get the technology they need to go to school online, so they can keep learning. As you learn more in school, you may discover more about the inner workings of the internet. Whenever the internet goes down, there are people who use their deep knowledge of the technology and great problem-solving skills to help us figure our what might be wrong. They help us get back on the information highway, so we can stay connected — even when wc arc stuck at home. Dr. Universe Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University’s resident scientist and writ­ er at Dr.Universe© wsu.edu or visit her website, askdrunivers e.com. Worship Together ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH ’’We Exist To Be An Expression Of Who Jesus Is To The World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy., P.O. Box 8. Hastings. Telephone 269­ 945-9121. Email bastfmc<2 prnail.com. Website: www. lKtstiripsfrccmc(hQdisL£Qni. Pastor Brian Teed. Assistant Faster Emma Miller, Worship Director. Martha Stoetzcl. Sunday Morning Worship: 9.im and 10:30 a.m. Due to the current health crisis, our nursery is remains closed. Wceklv activity bags forchilrcn arc available in the 9 a.m. service and Kids Church is available in our 10:30 service. Our worship center is up for social distancing. Aftermath Student Ministries: Sunday 6 p.m ST ROSE OF a-THOMC CHURCH q/)5 S Jefferson. 269-945Pastor Father Stephan 4 m-.cs 4 30 p.m. Plnl,j V 11 :U"' Saturday. Sunday. \ HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn, Hastings. Matt Moser. Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday. Family Night 6:30-8 p.m.. Kids 4 Truth (Children Kindergarten-5th Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information. 301 E State Rd., P.O. Box 273, Hastings. Ml 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948­ 0900. Website: www.lifegatccv. com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel­ chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship lime 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. 3185 N. Broadway. Hastings, MI 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9:45 a.m. CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 u ni. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616-690-8609. PLEAS ANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road, Dowling, Ml 49050. Pastor. Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 10 a.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd.. P.O. Box 765. (comer of Milo Rd. & S. M­ 43). Delton, Ml 49(M6, Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 204­ 9390. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 to 11:30am. Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer lime 6:30 to 7:30 pm. ■orship service is provided by 7/ie Hastings Banner, the churches This information' and these local businesses_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Michael Orlo “Mick” Davis Jr- age 46. of Orangeville, passed away on November 26, 2020 in Kalamazoo. Mick was botn on .April 24, 1974 in Plainwell, the son of Michael Davis Sr. and Joyce Uramkin. Mick was employed as a truck driver and logger for Bourdo lagging for 20 years. He loved anything fast, especially 4-wheelers and dirt bikes. He enjoyed being outdoors and shooting. Mick had an outgoing personality, he had many friends and enjoyed life. He will be remembered as a jokester. Most importantly, he loved his family and children. Mick is survived by his parents, Michael (Chris) Davis Sr. and'Joyce Uramkin; wife. Erin (Sheldon) Davis: children. Michael O. Davis 111. Landon Davis, and Layla Davis; brother. Brent (Jennifer) Davis; stepsister, Caitlin Terrill. parents-in-hw‘ Richard and Lisa Sheldon; sister-in-law, Rebecca Clark; brother-in-law, Richie Sheldon; nieces and nephews. Sean, Lily. Elaina. Bella, and Camden; and several aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Mick was preceded in death by his grandparents. Marjorie and Frank Uramkin and Margaret and Harold Davis. Mick’s family received friends on Tuesday. Deed. 2020, at the Pentecostal Church of Christ w here his funeral service was conducted. Pastotl -Matt Noble, Rich Sheldon, and Mike Risner officiating. Burial took place at Oak Hill Cemetery. Please visit vvww.rilliarnsgoresfunenil. com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Mick’s family. HNGS, MI - Kathleen Ann Purdun, *reV /1, passed away Sunday. Nov. 22, 2020. font complications related to chronic illness. lojo1 . Was lx)rn in Hastings on July 30. the daughter of Stewart Jack and acfrna (Moe) Brownell. Kathy was a ’ e 0,,c resident of the Hastings area and as a blK driver for Hastings Schools for 31 years. Kathy had a fun-loving, outgoing spirit, a sharp sense of humor, a strong work ethic, an a very giving nature. She thrived being on the go, and in her retirement continued to work pan-time driving people to medical appointments. Kathy was an excellent cook and often gifted friends, relatives, and strangers with her delicious food. She truly enjoyed meeting people and learning about their lives. She also loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. Her bright smile and infectious laughter will be missed. Kathy was preceded in death by her parents and her brother. Phillip. Kathy is survived by her brother, Mike Brownell (Joan Logan); her children, Mike (Andrea) Wright and Tricia (Jason) Eldred, all of Hastings; grandchildren, Abigail Wright. Hannah (Codey) Clewell, Collin Wright, Chelsea (Tel) Newth. and Mitchell Eldred; and great-grandchildren Eli and Ella Newth. Kathy is also survived by her step-sons. Rod (Darcic) Purdun and Ron (Anne) Purdun; step-daughter-in-law Andrea Purdun (Steve.Shoup); and grandchildren, Justin. Ashley and Shelby Purdun, Alex (Libby) Randall, and Jeremy McCallum. A Celebration of Life will be held for Kathy in the summer. SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Program experts can answer questions VondaVanTil Public Affairs Specialist With many online resources about Social Security, it is important that you come to us as the first place for answers. . , You can find many of the «ns*crs ax7 our programs and services«" our Asked Questions page at fa<l s feature our most-asked quesu011’ “>ll"- t0P °[ 'he page to help you find •ins"'erS common questions quicklyaffcc(ed * Are Social Security sc by coronavirus (COVID-1’)’ receivc a call What should I 1 Q :a| Security from someone claiming to*ilSoC’ * employee9 . correct my name How do I change 1* aKj'> My Social Security new or • How do I apP1*' replacement Social Security number card? • How can I get a Social Security Statement that shows a record of my earnings and an estimate of my future benefits? You also can browse by topics such as disability. Social Security payments, retirement and Medicare. Visit our publications library al ssa.gov/ pubs for detailed information on nearly all of our topics. We make each publication available in text, audio and downloadable formats. Vanda Van Til is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her do Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp ND. Grand Rapids Ml 49525 or via email to vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. Call 26^-945-9554 for Hastinys Banner ads —• l^dicional and Cremation Services ’ Pn- l’lanning Services fd'* • Ltrgc Parking ha - Handicap Accessible • Serving All Faiths • I Ye arrangement 'Ransfers Accepted 1351 North M-43 Hwy- Hasting5 945-9554 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 -69-9 *5-3252 • wwW.girrbMhfuneralhome.net jin11) Owned and Operatea r |Urn * and Surrounding ( JoAnn (Halt) Seebcr. age 90. ot Hastings, passed away on November 25,2020. She was born on May 25, 1930 in Lansing, the daughter of Paul and Mildred (McLeod) Hatt. Jo/Ann was a 1948 graduate of Eaton Rapids High School. In 1950 she married Floyd Seebcr, they had four children together, divorcing in 1962. She worked at Lescoa Plant 3 in Grand Rapids as a welder. JoAnn loved watching TV, reading, doing crossword puzzles, was an avid walker, loved going to Commission on Aging for lunch, and riding the transit bus to get where she needed to go. She was very independent and a huge Elvis Presley fan. She was very' witty and loved people. JoAnn was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Mildred Hatt; brother. Norman Hatt; sister. Betty Schaaf; twin brother. Jack Hatt; daughter, Terry Pamall; grandson. James Garry Townsend; granddaughter, Georgina Townsend; grandson. TJ (Timothy James Deal), and great-grandson. Tanner Olczak. She is survived by her daughters. Diana Deal of Hastings and Kim (Garry) Townsend of Eaton Rapids; son. Greg Seebcr of Hastings; grandchildren, Jason (Becky) Dea! of Hastings, David Higgins (Diana Franklin) of Hastings. Lisa (Leo) Ackley of Hastings. Jessica (Brian) Olczak of Middleville. Garry Jay (Heather) Townsend of Hastings. Destiny (Charlie) Bunton of Oxford, Greg Seebcr. Jr. of Hastings; 21 greatgrandcbildrm . and eight grmt-grc:a grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Barry County Commission on Aging, 320 W. Woodlawn Ave., Hastings. MI 49058, the American Cancer Society, https://donate3.cancer.org/, P.O. Box 22478; Oklahoma City, OK 73123, or Alzheimer’s Association, https://act.alz. org, 225 N. Michigan Ave.. Fl. 17, Chicago. IL 60601. A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, Dec. 3.2020 from Noon lo 2 pjn. at Girrbach Funeral Home. 328 S Broadway; Hastings. MI 49058. Due to the new order limiting indoor and outdoor gatherings, 25 people will be allowed to gather al a time. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, to leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. BUSINESS BRIEF Highpoint Community Bank continues to thrive BauerFmancial Inc., a national Mk rating firm, has announced that Highpoint Community Bank, based in has again been awarded its highest r3l‘n^ ^or financial strength and stability F-»nung a 5-Star rating indicates the bank ev* B in areas of capital adequacy, profitability,^1 Rualily and more. Earning and maintaining thi>wl’ral‘n^ 45 consecutive quarters Highpoint Community Bank the iiJ^,, “Exceptional Performance 8^’ u reserved for banks that have ^netl Bauer’s highest rating consistently ’caM K) consecutive years. “This rating is imprest ia thc lx?st of times.” Karen Dorway. r^s,denl the research firm, said. ’ But 1 1 overslate the strength and pnidence !bal ’’‘Khpoint Community Bank has exit*'*11 ‘'vcr 'he years that got it l0 ,hi> «,HI. And as we . 2021. we have every tha Highpoint Community 1^:N Lot«inue t0 Highpoint Com«’-i:'l'‘y established in 1880. Bank wa, �Th(.Harass Banner-Tnurabny. December3.2020-P^, / I 1 i “ fl look back at the stories and columns on local history v in the Hastings Banner // / turning PACK the \ PAGES A L i I j ■ ■ ■ ■ ® Barry County area added to the ranks ot Company K of the 35111 Michigan Volunteer Infantry, e n ' yorP- W-R- Ryan of Kalamo wrote of the 35th. In the camp are actors, acrobats, pugilists, runners, ’ n "ley seem to have their share of fun.” • Barry County in the Spanish American War, Part 6 7ftt following is the sixth of a seven-part series compiled by the late Joyce Weinbrecht and published in the Banner from mid-August to early October 1998. This installment includes letters from men .stationed at Camp Eaton, Island Lake, near Brighton. One soldier shares quite a bit of detail in describing the camp, hillsides and surrounding lakes. The two lakes he mentions, plus a few others, he near where US-23 inter­ sects 1-96, in Brighton. Some of the area today is presen t'd as part of the Island lake Recreation Area, but the developed land north of the park is far different from what the sol­ diers saw in 1898. ■ While the war was being fought in Cuba, •Puerto Rico and the Philippines, some Barry County Volunteers were still in training camps, wailing for the call to go to active duty. From Tampa, Fla., the Rev. AT. Waterman received the following letter July 11, 1898, Trom his son, who was a chief hostler, or one •who cares for horses, in the 33rd Regiment, Michigan Volunteers. His letter was printed in the July 29, 1898, Nashville News: ♦ “1 sent a postal this afternoon, but have .nothing else to do just now, so have lit a lan­ tern and am going to try to write a few lines. “Il is the rainy season here now. and it is raining in earnest and has been all day, and it rained yesterday forenoon, too. Talk about rain. Virginia is not in it, and I thought it rained hard al Camp Alger [Falls Church. Va.J “We have what we call ‘flies’ stretched over our horses. They arc made of heavy can­ vas. 30 feet long and from 12 lo 16 feet wide, and the rain beats right through them after it has rained half an hour, and some of the hors.es are as wet as though they were outside. The buys are wearing their rubber blankets over their shoulders and then cannot keep dry'. “I tell you what it is, we are finding out what it means to be a soldier in time of war. We have lo eat with the mule teamsters, that is, w e cat the same kind of food, but we have a table by ourselves, and it is a shame the food we get, hardly any meat, and what we do get is about half-cooked. Then we get thin soup, hard tack and coffee, such as it is. “Wc all got together yesterday and went to Capt. Forrest, who has charge of the camp here, and made a kick about our rations and told him we wanted at least as good food us we got when wc were with our companies, and he said he would look after it. “The lieutenant and myself went down to send a telegram or cablegram to Col. Boynton, but we did not send any. They only wanted <31 25 per word, which would have amounted to at least $10.93 [sic] and they count every word in a message. “Saturday there were a lot of wounded sol­ diers came from Cuba, about 400. Some were sent to Washington to a hospital, and some were left here at Tampa Heights. They say the Michigan boys were not in the light. It looks as though Santiago would not be taken withfout some hard fighting. I only wish I could be ithpre when they do it. .•WeiI. I think I can sleep pretty comfort'ik we have built bunks under the e pm our woolen blankets r\ an । <>“r r,lbber b,“"kc,s °Ver Ct .dm- in our tents is out of the questton • 1 n ns right through them, something it hnCC„ese do"' t>dl,re' BU‘ ,hC b-d "..mired, and that makes it a great deal n certainly be glad when we get orders tolX^ 10 do aI “"{he name of having the best string haVC ere and there arc a good many of horses IW • f()r lrJnsports. ■stall horses hen lhjs moni“(Jen. Mlle . sajd [hey Werc not mg, 18 head. • jn as g(KxJ condition lor Jialf as good, [1);i( js sayjng a good deal, service as ;irv. on|y three, what I call J am sure. 'fhe . ■ business, in cur regiment, poor horses go(Xj ()r than the and they are ^erc. majority of h°fS j * .j1 | mentioned as being in “This camp. "l^st. is a mule camp with charge of CnpL jrSc some of the officers .wagons, and oj,L trjnsports here, now but horses, all waid’1r artillery and soldiers, they are loading ra(c and quite foxy, even •‘1 am feeling ^r\v|r.it I would like to have if everything<s 1,01 it.*’ ■ ■ . •I More than 25 rn have all kinds ofar . gamblers and Prea ' In the same July 29, 1898, issue of The Nashville News was a letter from Edwin D. Mallory of Nashville, who was quartermaster for the 35th Michigan Infantry : “The 35lhe Infantry will be mustered in as a regiment al 12 a.m. today. It will number a total of about 1350 officers and men when completely filled. We arc about 30 men short at present, but judging from the rate the boys are coming in. the required 30 will soon be acquired. "Our Company K was mustered in as a company July 15 and enjoys a reputation of being the only full one mustered in the regi­ ment. there being 106 non-commissioned officers and privates and three commissioned officers at the lime of muster. Twenty-six of the men are Barry County boys, and three of them arc from Nashville: Homer Ryan, Charles S. Hartford, and myself. Homer is corporal and is getting along excellently in his position. Charles Hartford drills every day with the boys, and as a result, is one of the best drilled privates in our company. "We arrived at noon the second day of July and were lined up in two lines at the depot, there being some 76 men in the crowd. Our lieutenant gave the command ‘Right face, forward march,’ and we strolled in two lines to our camp "We found the tents ready for occupation, and one of our number volunteered as cook. We had a late dinner of roast beef, bread, but­ ter, tomatoes, potatoes and coffee to wash it down. I do not believe any of the boys in our company slept a wink that night. Some of us tried it, but soon in the lent next to us there arose a great noise. "It seemed that the occupants of the next tent were preparing for sleep, and all was going well until one unlucky chap pulled off his shoes. The odor was too much for the boys, and the rest of the gang hauled him out­ doors and compelled him to wash his feel under the hydrant. This started the ball roll­ ing. and soon half the company were parading up and down the street, clad in boiled shirts, only some even minus that much of wearing apparel, and all making the hideous [sic]. They kept it up until sunrise. "The tents are large, being 8x12 feet, and each lent has a wooden floor and contains about three ticks filled with straw*. Either five or six men sleep in each tent. The captain has a lent al the head of the street, and there is another tent parallel with the captain’s in which the lieutenants sleep. "The regiment has not as yet been armed with Blakes, but wc hope to receive them soon. We have ice furnished in plenty and receive fresh meat three limes each week. As far as salt meal is concerned, we have a cook’s shanty, which the commissar)* bluntly told me would be enough to last until the 30th. If they give us fresh meal three limes a week right along. I am inclined to think that the 1200 pounds will last us 12 years. “The government calls it bacon, but it tastes more like grease and salt lo me. I like good sweet bacon better than any other meal, but my stomach accepts but little ‘goot’ bacon at present. "After our present stock of butter is gone, we will have to do without it since Uncle Sam refuses lo issue it. While the State fed us. as it did. unlil after we were mustered, we had all the groceries we could order, and strange lo say, we happened to lie long on bulter when Uncle Sam claimed us, and as a result, we have been enjoying the product in spite of government. ‘ “A man might stay in camp a week and not hear a word about the fighting or the war. I hear no bragging whatsoever. The companies gel along nicely with each other, and there are few personal quarrels. Our company has had none worthy of mention. “Company A started throwing waler at Company K one night and finally got Company H to help them, whereupon our boys grabbed their quart cups, and as a boiler of hot water happened to be slewing over the campfire. MWn gave the enen,y such a *n reception that the precipitately required some of them leaving their arms (tin cups) on the field of battle. “Our company took up a collection and hnsril a pair of boxing gloves with which puKb.wd a pa fre , p;)(ldy <Xque.nl>.andtheway he jumps ^Ss^tant.no-ndthen.han^ in ■,(lid‘e boyX'wdl and seem to be glaU Strangers became friends within the companies, but men from the same hometowns still gathered for photos, like these Barry County residents in the Michigan 32nd sta­ tioned in Tampa, Fla. Pictured (top row, from left) are: Fred Rock, Frank Englehardt, Gersham Severance. Milton murphy, Edward Downs; (bottom) Frank Schumann, Walter Carvelh, Carl P. Bessmer. William Osborne and Dell Sutton. they are here. Nearly c'ery Sunday, the camp is thronged with relatives, friends and sweet­ hearts of the boys, and yesterday was no exception. Lyle Williams came yesterday and will stay, having gone into Company B [offi­ cial records list Williams as unassigned to a company!. He will be in our battalion (the Third) and near us so that we will see him often. "Your respectfully, "E.D. Mallory. our camp. "All of the 12 companies’ streets are paral­ lel w ith each other and end in a cross street. A few* rods back of this cross street, the land has a sharp decline, making excellent drainage facilities. The land that lies between the com­ panies’ streets and the railroad is as level as a floor and is occupied in part by the colonel’s, governor’s and other.headquarters necessary in such cases, leaving ample room for a parade ground in front of the colonel’s head­ quarters. A second letter from Mallory was pub­ "Directly west of the camp for a half mile lished in the Aug. 8. Nashville News. stretches the drill ground, which for the most "Editor News* part, is a level field although now and then a "Perhaps many of the readers of The News slight knoll or hollow is apparent as the com­ are unacquainted with the topography of the panies swing across it. The drill ground is in country in this vicinity.The camp is located in plain sight of passing trains, and the passen­ an easterly direction from Lansing, which is gers are wont to wave their handkerchiefs at about 40 miles distant. When die sojourner the boys as they pass by, which is always enters Island Lake from the capitol, he dis­ answered by a hearty cheer when the boys covers the dc|K>l and the lake upon the left and happen to be at rest. "About 30 rods |a rod is about 55 yards, so the camp upon the right. The part of the camp that faces the railroad is margined with an more than the length of I 16 football fields] ordinary high board fence, such as are seen south of our camp is- another stretch of oak woods, and beyond- the woods, a spongy frequently surrounding fair grounds and etc. "The fake is a pretty sheet of water and is swamp of muck covered with tall cut-grass surrounded for the pad. with wooded hills of with plenty of rattlesnakes and blue racers as oak. The lake boasts a small steamboat that inhabitants, several of w hich have met violent does a rushing business, The shore is shallow death al the hands of the relentless boys in and composed of good gravel, atlording leggings. Through the swamp runs a sluggish excellent bathing Fitcilitics. of which the boys river | Huron River), which while not over iwo are not slow to take advantage of. Directly rods across, is very deep, and strange to say in northeast of Island Lake and within five rods spite of the muck, has a gravel bottom. It is full of all kinds of fish. Many of the boys, and of the same is another lake. "The two lakes are separated by a ridge of among them, myself, prefer the river to the hard land, over which runs the highway, and lake for bathing purposes on account of the there is no apparent connection between the running waler. "The camp is supplied with water form a two, which strikes me as being a peculiar freak of nature. The second lake also is sur­ pumping station on the shore of the lake, lhe rounded by hills and groves of wood, but its waler is not an excellent kind fur drinking shores are muddy. Many fish are caught in puqxises, and lhe surgeons have ordered all w ater needed for internal [consumption to be| this lake by the boy*. "Tite lake is nearly round in form and cov­ boiled. Even then, lhe boys dislike it. and ers nearly as much surface as Island Lake. It many of them go to the springs or neighboring farm houses. is called Dollar Lake.These lakes are north o "Four of the txiys are with me in the quar­ the railroad, which runs between the lakes and MICHAEL KINNEY PLUMBING termaster’s shanty, and one evening, a mem­ ber of the company handed in four quarts of bottled well water for safe keeping. 1 hardly how it happened, but upon examining the bottles in the morning. I found them empty. I soon perceived that lhe owner would discover the deal and ask embarrassing questions - to say nothing of getting out of temper - and it also struck me that he would hold a mighty poor opinion of my value as a guardian of property in lhe future. “I always dislike to have a person hold a poor opinion of my ability, and further. I dis­ like to see people get out of temper, so I filled the bottles with hydrant water, and the own­ er’s confidence in lhe well water was so great that he drank it without discovering lhe differ­ ence. "The whole country presents a newer appearance than that of our neighborhood at home, and taking all in all, it would be hard to find a healthier or prettier place for camping purposes. I understand that the land occupied by the camp is owned by the railroad compa­ ny. which gives the state a free lease of the whole camping purposes. "Col. [E.M.J Irish stated this am. that we would slay our full two years and would leave in about two weeks. “A statement appeared in a letter written from Island Lake and published in lhe Charlotte Tribune lo the effect that the boys are ill-fed and dissatisfied. I have noticed very little dissatisfaction of our company. The boys are fed everything the government allows, and for lhe most part, seem satisfied with it. We are all anxious to get away, but not toward home. All the boys are in good health who came from Nashville, and there is no reason whatever why they shouldn't be. The tents shed water like a duck’s back. “Wry respectfully, E.D. Mallory Corp. Ryan, whose first name was William but went by his middle name. Homer, penned a letter Aug. 8,1898, which was printed in the Aug. 12, 18931 Nashville News: "Once more I will try and acquaint you with lhe happenings at Island Lake. Yesterday would have been a great day for Island Lake, had it not rained. There was a fine crowd here, about 2,0(X) people. I think about I o’clock it commenced to rain, and it poured down until the streets of the camp were Hooded. It was so stormy that the review and dress parade were not held. "Last Saturday was a great day for Camp Eaton soldiers. We had our blank cartridges for the first time. After drill. Col. Irish compli­ mented the boys very highly. He says he never saw* boys progress in drill as do die boys of the 35th. We will soon have our Blake rifles and canvas suits. I saw one of lhe Blake rifles the other day. I think they are wonderful implements of war, that is. if they are as for­ midable as they appear. "The attraction here yesterday was Gus Cramcs, of course. He is one of Uncle Sam’s naval heroes He was with ‘Fighting Bob’ Evans al Santiago and was the only wounded See WAR, next page I no-PZjtilFar’ LeaK; >rnier J NO MOREGUnER CLEANING, or your money BACK GUARANTEED! Licensed Master Plumber jjeensed Journeyman Plumber New construction, remodel, repair, drain cleaning. ‘ BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEATERS Same Day Installation Office (269) 9-48-2248 Mobile (269) 838-5112 Iaccuse 0811037* & Insured fSrfclmas rabrics: : and new < : collections by < i Moda* and <}T* : arriving! Bookkeeper WrilkeG \ Sheldon, PIC is seeking o highly i inoiyidual with three • Gvu years bookkeeping/ 0,0 '|| exp‘’r*ence. 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On Friday, he will iv-exalumc the district’s ability (o return to in-person learning. depending on the availability of staff. ’’The decision of whether K-8 will be able to return Monday, Dec. 7, will l>e based on whether we have enough staff to do so," Corlett wrote. “We arc optimistic, but can’t guarantee this will be the ease." High school students are expected to return to in-person classes on Wednesday. Dec. 9. “However, there is a possibility that the governor may extend the shutdown of high schools throughout the state,” Corlett wrote. “We will let you know as soon as possible when we receive an update from the state." Corlett emphasized the importance of been great. biX^fa JX!pU,atJoa students who teachers strtB? ? fn’m’ Corlett said. “WeXt 31I tO !£nl,.nuc learning and being support dunnS l,mc and expect to heal- from ‘hc,Tl CVCQ day that wc arc virtual." Families without jnlc-r’^’1 connection should contact the office where their children attend. "If there is annhinif*' t*"d° 10 su^>ot’ your students or families «' 'h;s0nie phase don't hesitate to let us kn'1'v' ,Cor ctI said"Wc are doing our bestnavigating Ihese times and keeping student’al,d safe" Hope Township gravel pit discussions oh h°ld Luke Froncheck Staff Writer The cancelation of the November and December Hope Township Planning Commission meetings suspended discussions on a Wilkinson Lake gravel pit mining operation application submitted by R. Smith and Sons. To date, planning commission members have reached a consensus that valuable resources exist on the site. 'Hie next task is to establish whether any serious consequences Andrew Cove, AAMS® would result from lhe mining operation. However, that conversation won’t happen until the new year. While the process has continued lo move forward, several Hope Township residents have expressed concerns about the meeting process thus far. “It’s been a bit haphazard, to be honest,” Wilkinson Lake resident Don Sklcnka said. Sklcnka and other Wilkinson Lake residents, including David Ellyatt, oppose lhe format of recent planning commission Member SIKI McmDcr Jim Lundin 2169 VI. M-43-Hwy., Suite A Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 818-0423 421 W. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-3553 Managing your retirement plan under a new employer Your employer-sponsored deferred. retirement plan is a valuable • Leave your plan with asset. But sometimes things your old employer. If your happen that can affect lhe account balance is above a status of your plan. So. certain level, you may be for example, if you work able lo leave your plan with for a hospital that changes your old employer's plan ^ownership, and you have - administrator. You won’t be been participating in a 403(b), able to contribute any more 457(b) or 401(k) retirement money to the plan, but if you plan, what should you do with like the investment options it now? you’ve chosen, keeping die Basically, you have four money in your old plan might options: be a viable choice. • Cash out your plan. You • Move your account into a can simply cash out your traditional IRA. One possible plan and take the money, but advantage to moving your you’ll have lo pay taxes on 403(b). 457(b) or 401(k) into it, and possibly penalties as a traditional IRA is you’ll well. So, unless you really open up a world of new need lhe funds and you have investment options, because no other alternative, you may you can fund your IRA with want to avoid liquidating your virtually any type of vehicle, account including stocks, bonds, • Roll your account into mutual funds, certificates of your new employer’s plan. deposit (CDs) and exchangeIf it’s allowed, you can traded funds. And if you roll over your old 403(b), already have a traditional 457(b) or 401 (k) plan into IRA, you can combine the your new employer’s plan. new funds with the old ones, Before making this move, making it easier to track you’ll want to look at the new your holdings. As is the case plan’s investment options with leaving your money in (which should be numerous) your old employer’s plan or and fees (which should be transferring it to a new plan, low). If you move lhe money you’ll continue to benefit directly to the new plan, you from tax-deferred growth. won’t be taxed al lhe time of Keep in mind, though, that the transfer, and your funds IRAs have costs, too, possibly can continue lo grow tax- including transaction costs to buy or sell new investments. (One more thing to keep in mind: When you want to move a retirement plan to an IRA, you may want to make a direct rollover, so the old plan’s administrator moves the money directly into the IRA. allowing you to avoid immediate taxes. If you were to make an indirect rollover, you’d get the money yourself, but your bid employer would have to deduct 20% for federal taxes, and you’d have lo deposit the entire balance, including the withholding, into your IRA within 60 days.) Which of these choices is best for you? There’s no one “right” answer for everyone. You’ll want to consider all lhe options and possibly consult with your tax advisor and financial professional. But do all you can to protect y our retirement plan - you’ve worked hard to build it, and you’ll need to rely on it to help you pay for your years as a retiree. Arson suspect faces additional charges Thia article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones. Member SIPC. Taylor Owens Stuff Writer Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 .........................■ I'or Sale 11 it'dn ess Service* CARRON SPORT AIR Hock­ ey Table. S300.0<)OBO.Phom269-908-1654._________ KASSON 10FT OAK Pool Table excellent condition. stoOO-OO or OBO. 269-908­ MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. 1654 In Memory In Loving memory of Rayrnond Hause. Sr who passed away December 5. Always and Forever Your Family BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements, rubbish removal. 269-320-3890. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793 Digital TV Antennaa t- Call Phona Boosters 269.M7.S241 UJWJRWSIAIAIIMI. • meetings. . “The COVID meeting situation dfxcsn’t help, but lhe applicant <s nl,?Wud bnng their legal team to the meet,n£ wb‘lc the public is mostly uonfiocd I" listening on Zoom,” Sklcnka said. r D .. . The fact that represent*®*4*lrom .bm>th and Sons hayabeen allowed at die meetings is a point of frustration fof b011 Ellyatt and Sklcnka. . “The thing I find galling >s tbat’ during the course of the meeting. anYone w’lb any opinion on the matter only gcJf tbrec m*nutes before the meeting begin5’* Ellyatt said. “Once the meeting starts, the applicant’s attorney can spout whatever information he wants.” “h’s been a very frustrating, brutal process that 1 don’t think anvone is happy with," he added. Ellyatt said he would like to sec the meetings postponed until a true public meeting could be conducted. However, if that is not an option, he said the representatives from R. Smith and Sons also should attend remotely. Sklcnka added that the microphone picking up board members will randomly get muted at some moments during the meeting, cutting out portions of the discussion. “It’s been damn hard work to do." Ellyatt said. “We’re attending remotely on a laptop while trying to stay in the meeting with a bad connection and bad sound. “It really made me question how legitimate the process is w hen you can't hear things that are going on.” For the October pfenning commission meeting, Ellyatt said the public was informed 45 minutes before the meeting started that they would be abje'lb attend in person. “I’ve been largely disappointed in lhe process,” Ellyatt said. “The planning commission has an uphill battle to understand what is going on here. The gravel miner does not want to enlighten them about anything.” As a result, Ellyatt said, he’s pleased to see the meetings canceled. “Itgives all individuals involved time to get their thoughts together." The postponement also allows board members to get caught upon the information, he said. “There arc a lot of people that arc researching things they never thought they needed to know,” Ellyatt said. "There are days I’m thinking I’m getting an advanced degree in geology and hydrology" - PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All ical ewAie »d»crt>Mng in n lubjcti Ij tbs I .:;r Houtfa. AU aid tbr Michigan Civil Rifbu Art whkh culicciivtlj make it ilkyal t, aUvriUac "Juty perirrtnee. limitation w diKtinuiMtian batcj cu tact, color trillion. sc». handicap, familial vtarvv rational vrif.n. age nr nurtiai Ustu*. an intention. lo nuke an) prrfctetKr. limitation ex ducnmhutkxi ~ I •inilu! ujt.o inJodcv children bnjcr thenjtcof IK living uithpaler-a<x cto&Mia-ic pitpum women and pcop|c wcunnj: iu»i.>dy of ihddtrn unde; |g IXtt newspaper will net ik«c|X i<.j rdirmung 6 it ie»| which it in vio*at«"n of lhe <jvr re<dct> nr hereby mfuemed (bar dwdbnp aUcrtixd in <h . arc available on un equal oppotfattty Im:-.. Jo report d<)»->in.inati<m ud| t£c J air ll'xntaj: Center al 61b 'the lit H) l.di tWC telephone nunber fO( the be.-r.ng impaired u I While Royal Coach arson suspect Kcigan Sochor’s probable cause hearing has been delayed for a third time, he has been charged with two additional crimes. Sochor, 21, of Hastings.noW faccsa charBc of using a computer to'commil a crime, and unlawfully driving away from a scene. Both offenses are alleged to have taken place on Sept. 16, weeks before Royal Coach building burned down Oct. . Sochor also faces charges of third-degree arson, preparation to bum property, and two founts of entry without breaking with the tnteni to commit a crime. , Tlie charges of arson us,ng a mPuJer to commit a crime carry maximum penalties of 10 years in prison n u • a probable bearing for »l charges ls scheduled f0r 8-15 aJI,. IXc. 9 tn Uany Count>'District Court. WAR, continued from page 7 Hie Iowa. Well, the 35th will have one major who has seen actual service, that is MaJ«r {Harry) Bandholtz {of Constantine). He h:,s just returned from Cuba and is one of the heroes of Santiago. Should the 35lh see serhe will be a wonderful help to them. There is hardly a man in camp (who is not) attain he will leave Island Like soon. T’ol. Irish and the others say the boys "'ould not see any pay days here, and by the w‘<y officers are pushing matters, it looks as if we would leave lhe camp inside of two weeks. Ye have two hours drill in the forenoon and two more in the afternoon, and at 6:30 p.m., we have dress parade. This is the hardest part of our work. Al ’parade rest’ wc have to hold our posi­ tion for 15 minutes. If anybody thinks that is cas>’. just try and remain in one position with­ out moving a muscle for even 10 minutes at a time. Two fellows in Company B fainted today nt dress parade. ‘Lyle Williams is getting along nicely. He hkes the place.’ I read Frank Smith’s letter with great interest. {Likely Frank D. Smith, of Nashville,corporal with the U.S.4lh Artillery.] LEGAL NOTICES NQTlCE_OEMQRTGAG£fORECLQSUaLSALE They arc not so strict here, yetJ* ing more lhe regulars to be, but they are ^porals. setstrict every day. Some of the gcants and even captains hflV down in great shape. mc ••One of the boys who tents * received police duty for a week army a threw milk on the mess lent. I ()0Ut |()_ •policeman- does all the work stands 6 feet. 7 inches. He could not £ P«£ long enough, and it is enough to ma* low die with laughter to look at h”1’all kinds of amusement. In the camp actors, acrobats, pugilists. ™nners-g“T(hci. and preachers, and they all seem to share of fun. Well. I will have to dose for the time. Will write again next week. Very truly, W.H. Ryan. Corporal, Co. K,35th Regiment, Michigan Volunteers To be continued ... LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect COUNTY OF BARRY a debt. Any information wo obtain will bo used tor NOTICE TO CREDITORS that purpose Decedent’a Estate Notice of foreclosure by advertisement. Nonce is Estate of Preston S. Parish. Date of birth: given under section 3212 of the revised judicature 11/10/1919. act of 1961, 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212. that the TO ALL CREDITORS: following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Preston the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at S. Parish, who lived at 6350 Sheffield Road. Hickory a public auction safe to lhe highest bidder for cash Comers, Michigan 49060, died on July 1. 2020. or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit Creditors of the decedent are notified that all court In Barry County, Michigan, starting promptly at claims against the estate will be forever barred one o’clock in the afternoon on Thursday, the 14th unless presented to Barbara J. Parish. Personal day of January, 2021. The amount duo on the mort­ Representative, of the Estate of Preston S. Parish. gage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing Barry County Probate Court File No. 2O-28646-DE. the highest bid at the sale does not automatically within 4 months after the date of publication of this entitle the purchaser to free and dear ownership of notice. the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged Personal Representative: Barbara J. Parish to contact tho county register of deeds office or a 6350 Sheffield Road tide insurance company, either of which may charge Hickory Comers, Michigan 49060 a fee for this information Attorney; Sydney E Parfet The mortgage was made by KRISTA ANN SHEL­ Lake, Parfet & Schau, PLC DON, a single woman (-Mortgagor*), to GREEN­ 141 East Michigan Avenue. Suite 600 STONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES. FLCA. a feder­ Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007 ally chartered corporation, having an office at 3515 Telephone: (269) 382-5300 West Road. East Lansing. Michigan 48823 (the Court Address: 206 W. Court Street, Suite 302, ‘Mortgagee’), dated July 17. 2009. and recorded in Hastings. Ml 49058 151646 tho office of the Register of Deeds for Barry Coun­ ty, Michigan on July 24, 2009, as Instrument No. 200907240007681 (the ’Mortgage’). By reason of a default under the conditions of lhe Mortgage, the 1 Mortgagee elects to dedare and hereby dedares Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised payable forthwith Mortgagee is lhe owner of the judicature act of 1961,1961 PA236, MCL600.3212, indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of the date of this Notice there is daimed to be that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a due for prindpal and interest on tho Mortgage tho sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of sum of Sixty Nino Thousand Eight Hundred Eight them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder Six and 05/100 Dollars ($69,886.05). No suit or for cash or cashier's check at tho place of holding proceed.ng at law has been instituted to recover lhe tho circuit court in Barry County, starting prompt­ debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. ly at 1XX) PM, on January 14, 2021. The amount The premises covered by the Mortgage are situ­ due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of ated in tho Township of Thomapple. County of Bar­ sale. Placing tho highest bid at tho sale does not ry. State of Michigan, and are described as follows: automatically entitle tho purchaser to free and dear Lot 21. Sandy Knolls, according to the recorded plat thereof in Uber 5 of Plats. Page 59 of Barry ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is County Records encouraged to contact tho county register of deeds Together with all fixlures, tenements, heredita­ office or a title insurance company, either of which ments, and appurtenances belonging or in any way may charge a fee for this information: appertaining to the premises. Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Ronald J HerCommonly known as: 2092 Fawn Avenuo. Mid­ monitt and Ruby M. HermenitL husband and wife dleville. Michigan 49333 Original Mortgagee: Ditech Financial LLC FKA P.P /08-14-120-020-00 Green Tree Servicing LLC F/K/A CONSECO FI­ Notice is further given that the length of lhe re­ NANCE SERVICING CORP. demption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the Foreclosing Assignee fif any): U S. Bank National premises are abandoned, the redemption period Association, as Trustee, for Manufactured Housing will be the later of thirty (30) days from lhe date of Contract Senior/Subordinato Pass-Through Certrtthe sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days af­ cate Trust 2000-5 ter the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA Dato of Mortgage: June 13, 2000 §600.324 la(b) that the premises are considered Date of Mortgage Recording: June 21,2000 abandoned and Mortgagor, Mortgagor’s heirs, ex­ Amount claimed duo on date of notice: $86,58101 ecutor. or administrator, or a person lawfully claim­ Description of tho mortgaged premises: Situdad ing from or under one (1) of them has not given the in Township of Orangeville. Barry County, Mchiwritten notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. gan, and described as- That Part of lhe Northeast If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale, 1/4 of Section 20, Town 2 North. Range 10 West, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held described as. Commencing at tho Northeast comer responsible to the person who buys the premises at of said Section; thence South 89 degrees 5® min­ the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee utes West 1009.17 feet along tho North lins^ said for damaging the premises during the redemption Northeast 1/4 to tho Centertine of Undsey mad; period. thence South 08 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds Attention homeowner: If you are a military ser­ West 33.35 feet along said Centerline to t** P5300 vice member on active duty, if your period of active of beginning; thence North 89 degrees 59minutes duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered lo active duty, please contact East 233.00 feet; thence South 03 degrees 17 min­ the attornoy for the party foreclosing the Mortgage utes 30 seconds West 220.00 feet; thence South 89 at the telephone number stated in this notice. degrees 59 minutes West 233.00 feet; th**0 North 08 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds East 220-0 foot Dated: December 3, 2020 along said Centerline to the p'ace of be^^ GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA Common street address (if any): 1i22< Ronald Mortgagee Ln, Delton. Ml 49046-7764 Timothy H.llegonds The redemption period shall bo 6 ncntl'.s from WARNER NORCROSS + JUDD LLP tho dato of such salo, unless aban­ 150 Ottawa Avenue NW Ste. 1500 Grand Rapids, Ml 49503-2487 doned in accordance with MCL 600 3241®-or- lh9 (616)752-2000 210136611 subject real property is used for agrtcU3**1 Purpos­ 51860 es as defined by MCL 600 3240( 16) If the property is sold at foreclose* 5310 Chapter 32 of tne Revised Judicati/® 1961. pursuant to MCL 600 3278 tho borre** w,!l hold responsible to tho person who buys ** P-°Porty at tho mortgage foreclosure sale or &rnort9age holder for damaging tho property' ,ho re­ demption period Attention homeowner: If you fT’il,lary service member on active duty, if your active duty has concluded less than 9o days w *°u been ordered to active duty ple^ coritact tho at­ torney for lhe party foreclosing at th© telephone number stated in tM This notice is from a debt Date of notice; November pa 202° Trott Law, P.C 31440 Northwestern Hwy 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248)642-2515 1425393 (11'26)(12-17) '5149Q GET ALL THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Hastings Banner. Call 269-9^'9554 for more information �TM Hustings Bannor - TW.day. 0**^ 3. , Fall AlkBarry County Football players madcjhe most of their fall Brett Bremer • Sports Editor . hfoh'C °J K?ichi®a" "as yet to conXd^ of^ 001 foo,ba" sca,on. wi>h !hree *hc State tournament remain­ hoys and girls of the gndlvoff Off their 2020 ““on in the slate payoffs last month 1 was ,he ,cam Of lhe Pushi"8 East G™^RpP“?.f°r “ Whi,e in its Division 3 D1S<n^.rf?a before faIlin8 °" ihc Pioneers’ bon* turf to complete a 5-4 season and went 4.3 against lhe teams in the reworked OK Gold Conference with a postseason win over newconferencc foe Kenowa Hills is factored m TK advanced to the district finals in Didsion 3 with the help of a forfeit victory over Zeeland West due COV1D-I9. Hastings had the best regular season of any of the county teams, finishing atop the hrferstate-8 Athletic Conference standings for the first time. The Saxons fell to Parma Western in the opening game of the season, Sept. 18, and then went on a run of six straight victories that opened with the program’s first Blaze Sensiba ever victory over Jackson Lumen Christi. The Saxons throttled Three Rivers in the terback and defensive back. He also kicked opening round of the postseason and then lost and punted when called upon. a hard fought battle with the Paw Paw Red He rushed for 32 yards and two touchdowns Wolves on the turf inside Baum Stadium at in the Trojans’ playoff win over Kenowa Hills, Johnson Field in the second round of the play­ had an interception in that win over the offs to close a 6-2 campaign. Knights, and caught touchdown passes in Delton Kellogg joined the Trojans and TK’s October win over Ottawa Hills and its Saxons in getting playoff wins. The Panthers playoff game at East Grand Rapids. were 4-4 on the season, getting to play their Tight End first season on the new artificial turf field al Evan Eastman. Hastings: A Saxon leader on the high school in Delton. The Panthers both sides of the ball, Eastman was a key knocked of Bronson in the opening round of blocker and recorded 84 receiving yards for lhe postseason before falling to Southwestern lhe Hastings offense and drew a pair of pass Athletic Conference Valley Division foe interference penalties. He scored two touch­ Schoolcraft for the second time on the year. downs, three two-point conversions and had a Lakewood was in its annual battle for the blocking percentage of 94 percent. GLAC championship, but once again finished From his spot as a defensive end, Eastman a game behind lhe conference champions from had 24 tackles including three sacks. He was Olivet. Maple Valley got to play its first post­ named first team all-conference in the 1-8 this season football since moving to the 8-pIayer fall and an all-region player. form of lhe sport. The MHSAA allowed for Offensive Line the Lions and other 8-pIayer schools too large Caden Ferris, Delton Kellogg: The Panthers’ to participate in the regular state tournament to 6-3, 230-pound junior center earned First host their own tournament. The Lions knocked Team “ All-Conference, honors in the SAC this off Vandcrcook Lake in lhe opening round fall after an honorable mention nod his sopho­ before ultimately coming up shy in lhe tourna­ more season. He is a two-year varsity starter ment championship game against Bridgman. for the Panthers. Here are the 2020 AU-Barry County Ferris played football and soccer this fall, Football First and Second Teams. after joining the DK varsity boy s’ soccer team All-Barry County Football when lhe football season was initially post­ First Team Offense poned. On the offensive front for DK, Ferris Quarterback recorded 27 pancake blocks and didn’t allow a Blaze Sensiba, Maple Valley: The Lions’ sack. senior quarterback completed 2 passes for 52 Noah Kriekaard. Thomapple Kellogg: A yards and two touchdowns in 2020 and also senior who filled the left tackle spot for TK • rushed 90 times for 435 yards and eight touch­ this season. downs. Defensively, Sensiba recorded 26 Kriekaard was named all-conference in the tackles, had a forced fumble and an intercep­ OK Gold this fall. tion. Blake Monroe, Thomapple Kellogg: A "Blaze has been the glue that kept us leader on the offensive line as a senior forTK. together in our first two years of 8-man foot­ Monroe earned all-conference honors in the ball,” Lion head coach Marty Martin said. OK Gold Conference playing left guard for “Always optimistic and as tough as they lhe Trojans' and all-region honors as well. come. Blaze became a quarterback as a junior Ethan Rodriguez. Lakewood: The Vikings ... As his senior year progressed. Blaze called best offensive lineman in his first season play­ many of our offensive plays at the line of ing on the Vikings’ offensive line. scrimmage.” Rodriguez filled a guard spot for the Vikings Running Back and earned first team all-conference honors in Bradley Bunch, Delton Kellogg: A senior. the GLAC. Bunch was named First Team All-SAC for lhe Cole Pape. Delton Kellogg: A four-year second season in a row. He is a three-year varsity starter for Delton Kellogg, Pape earned varsity started and a two-year team captain. First Team All-SAC honors in each of his final Bunch rushed for 525 yards on 97 carries three varsity seasons. He was a two-lime cap­ tain. He was credited with 4 pancake blocks this season. Hugheston Heckathom, Maple Valley: The and no sacks allowed this fall. Lions’ senior running back/defensive end was “Cole has been an integral part of our offen­ a four-year varsity starter for the Lions who sive and defensive lines for four years,” head earned all-state honors in 2019. Heckathom coach Ryan Bates said. “He started the season rushed 141 times for 804 yards and 13 touch­ al light end and we moved him to tackle for downs this regular season, while also record­ the team. He jumped right back in.” Owen Winegar, Hastings: Winegar earned ing five receptions for 63 yards. He also ernred five two-point conversions for his all-conference honors in the Interstale-8 team. He added 49 more rushes for 290 yards Athletic Conference this fall. He had a 90-percent blocking percentage in the Lions’ two postseason ballgames. “This year* he has matured as a leader and and a 96-percent on target blocking percent­ has had a tremendous year on both sides of the age according to the Saxons' stats. Kicker ball ” head coach Marty Martin said. He fin­ Gavin Houtkooper, Delton Kellogg: A ishes his Maple Valley careers as the school ^rd holder in carries with 455 and yards senior in first season of varsity football, 765, and also set the single-game rush- Houtkooper drilled 18 extra points on 22 as a junior with 33 rushes for 313 attempts this fall. He hit 87 percent of his mg Toledo Christian. He was voted kickoffs for louchbacks. An all-state goalkeeper for the Delton ^r o^twm MVP this fall. ,, Kellogg varsity boys’ soccer learn this fall, ^Vnussell. Hastings: Russell surpassed the I rwi^ .rd mark in eight ballgames, rushing Houtkooper was honored as the First Team r^ndS yards and recording 1,194 “11-putj All-SAC football kicker as well. AH-Barry County Football for 1025i > finished the season with 12 First Team Defense pose yards. »» Defensive Line touchdowns. d fiRt leam .inference Hunter Belew, Delton Kellogg: A three-year Russell was Confcrencc and an varsity starter al Delton Kellogg. Belew earned in the Interser First Team All-SAC honors lor the third time all-region j^ewexxi: A senior running this season. He is a two-time team captain. Garrett St^7* g0 (imCs for 545 yard* and Belew, played a mix of defensive end, run­ back, Stank ru*‘ faH wjtj)Out fumbling ning back and offensive guard for the Panthers seven touchdo* this fall. He averaged more than five yards per the ball once. team all-conference in carry <>«•of lhc backf":ld l“l?n’ bcil!s lnovcd ^ , n;,rd to help the team. Defensively, Belew He was nam . varsity season, Sdd the year With 12 tacMe.andth.ee the GLAC in h1S Receiver , . - Thornapple Kellogg: The Cole Shoobndg^eivcr did a lo( ol things Jonathan Edwards, Hastings: A senior big athletic wide -ng wide receiver, quarfor TK this fall. P|a> , Cole Pape defensive lineman for the Saxons, Edwards had 155 tackles this fall including four for a loss and 15 sacks. Edwards was named all-conference in the Interstate-8 and an all-region performer. Charlie Everitt, Lakewood: A defensive leader for the Vikings in his junior season, Everitt had 15 tackles, one sack and 35 tack­ les for loss from his defensive end spot. Everitt was named first team all-confcrcnce in lhe GLAC this season. Recce Proctor-Burhans, Maple Valley: A 6-3,195-pound sophomore who played defen­ sive end and light end. Proctor-Burhans had 16 tackles, including two for a loss, a sack and was a ballhawk with five forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries. On offense ProctorBurhans had seven receptions for 183 yards and a touchdown. “Recce has been a big play football player on both sides of the ball.” coach Marty Martin said. "On offense, he has had highlight reel type catches lay ing out for balls and jumping up and taking them away from the defender. On defense, Reece has been a ball magnet with nine takeaways on the field.” Alex Whitmore, Delton Kellogg: A 6-4, 280-pound junior, Whitmore had 15 pancake blocks and didn’t allow a sack all fall from his spot on the Panthers’ offensive line. Defensively, Whitmore had 12 tackles and three sacks. He earned First Team All-SAC honors this season. Carter West, Thomapple Kellogg: West was a key component of the offensive and defen­ sive fronts for the Trojans this fall, earning honorable mention all-conference in the OK Gold. He filled the center spot on lhe offensive line. On defense. West had a season-high three tackles in his team’s playoff game at East Grand Rapids. Linebacker Ryan Holmes,Thomapple Kellogg: Holmes was important on both sides of the ball for TK in his senior season. He had more than 35 tackles this season and regularly made plays in opponents’ backfields. Holmes had 123 yards rushing in the Trojans’ early season win over Wayland and scored three touchdowns. From his running back spot he also had 69 yards in his team’s playoff opening win over Kenowa Hills. He was named all-conference in the OK Gold this season. Samuel McKeown, Thomapple Kellogg: A senior linebacker and fullback for TK, McKeown earned honorable mention all-con­ ference in the OK GoW this season. McKeown scored touchdowns in each of lhc Trojans’ playoff games and had a sea­ son-high 88 yards rushing m his team’s early season win over Way^ndCorbin Ulrich, Has^gs: A defensive leader for the Saxons as a senior this fall, Ulrich had 57.5 tackles including six for a loss and 15 sacks. Ulrich was named all-conference in the 1-8 and an all-region lhls s^asonNathan Willette, takcwooJ1: A sophomore linebacker for the Vibngs he led his team with 475 tackles and had five tackles for a loss and a sack. . .. r . He was named fl*1 m all-conference in the GLAC this season- Defend- Back Alex Bonnema...rk“rrnaPP|c Kellogg: Bonnema finished with more tha„ 30 tackles from his spot in 1he'fr°Jans defensive buck­ field an<j had two inlcn-fP!l,ons lhe year. He had a big nifh*,scas°n wi" over Wayland catcl’1’4' » 45-yard ID pass, rushing for 41 yard* ■“ u reconUn8 sevc» tackles8 He threw »Wuch*"*n pass in TK’s Playoff game at «''Pidv in ' Sawyer Stocpket- W“wood: A senior defensive biek S«*pu" had 35 ,ackl« including five for »f£5£ He bi“'ed <k’wn three passes at> " creepnons. Sloepker was all-confer- TJ Russell Mitchell Middleton ence in the GLAC and earned all-region hon­ Rounds filled the right tackle spot forTK. ors as well. Gavin Willette. Lakewood: A junior tackle Matt Thompson, Hastings: A junior defen­ on the offensive line for the Vikings who sive back for the Saxons, Thompson had 22 could play anywhere on the line as needed. total tackles on the season. He knocked down Willette was named honorable mention A11eight passes and intercepted one. GLAC this fall. Thompson was named honorable mention Kicker all-conference in the Interstate-8 Athletic Owen Bailey, Maple Valley: Bailey hit all Conference this fall. four extra-points he kicked in 2020, playing Punter for a team that almost exclusively went for Mitchell Middleton, Thomapple Kellogg: two after touchdowns. Owen averaged 335 Middleton did a lot of everything for the yards per punt for the Lions and had a long of Trojans’ this fall, carrying lhe load at running 45 yards. back, kicking long field goals, punting and "What made Owen a great kicker for us was playing linebacker as well. his ability to onside kick.” Lion head coach Middleton rushed for 203 yards and a Marly Martin said. “We recovered 57 percent touchdown in TK’s early season win over of all his onside kicks which were placed all Wayland, and went over the 100-yard mark in over the field. He was definitely a game-chang­ TK wins over Forest Hills Eastern and Kenowa er.” Hills. He scored two TD’s in TK’s playoff win All-Barry County Football over Kenowa Hills, rushing for 114 yards. He Second Team Defense averaged over 36 yards per punt in the Trojans’ Defensive Line playoff loss at East Grand Rapids. He hit 19 David Hosack-FrizzeU, Maple Valley. extra-points on the season. He booted a Hosack-Frizzell isn three-year starter forahe 42-yard field goal in TK’s win over Forest Lions, playing on the offensive and defensive Hills Eastern. lines this fall. He had 12 tackles as the Lions’ All-Barry County Football two-gap defensive lineman through the first Second Team Offense three games of the season before an ACL inju­ Quarterback ry brought his season to an end. Jayce Hansen, Lakewood: Head coach Matt “Bom with a debilitating birth defect on his Markwart called Hansen a great leader. right side, David has worked his tail off to Hansen was named second team all-confer­ make himself stronger, faster and better on ence in the GLAC this fall. both sides of lhe ball,” coach Martin said. “His Running Back optimistic attitude and quiet leadership have Dillon Jorgenson, Maple Valley: The Lions' helped our team grow and become more suc­ senior fullback and linebacker, Jorgenson cessful in 8-man football.” rushed for 358 yards and had seven receptions Kyler Madden, Hastings: A senior defen­ for 91 yards in his second year as a started in sive lineman. Madden earned honorable men­ lhe offensive backfield. He had a fumble tion all-conference in the Interstate-8 Athletic recovery on defense. Conference this season. “Dillon was willing to do anything to help Madden closed the season with 515 total our football team, including shifting to guard tackles, including ten for a loss and 45 sacks. when we had injuries along the offensive Gavin Patton, Hastings: Patton closed out line,” coach Marty Martin said. his senior season with 75 tackles. Robert Slaughter, Hastings: The Saxons’ He had 2.5 tackles in opponents’ backfields. sophomore fullback amassed 455 rushing Noah Rosenberg. Thomapple Kellogg: yards in eight games this season, averaging Rosenburg stepped up to fill a spot on the 7.7 yards per rush. defensive line as a sophomore this fall forTK. Defensively, Slaughter recorded 3 tackles He had had 15 tackles for loss in TK’s win including 1.5 for a loss. at Ottawa Hills in October. Tight End Linebacker Hunter Bassett, Maple Valley: A three-year Carsen Burbridge. Thomapple Kellogg: A varsity starter for the Lions playing where sophomore that earned a spot in the Trojans’ needed. He spent time at tight end, on the experienced linebacker corp this fall. Burbridge had five tackles in OK Gold offensive line and nt linebacker. He played guard much of the time, and added two recep­ Conference ballgames with South Christian and Wayland, and had at least five tackles for tions for 24 yards at tight end. Defensively, Bassett had 13 tackles a fum­ a loss this season. Jake DeJong, Thomapple Kellogg: A big ble recovery and two interceptions. hitter and one of the leaders of the Trojan Offensive Line Jackson Dubois, Hastings: A junior, Dubois defense, he had more than 30 tackles this fall was an important part of the Saxons’ success and at least five in opponents’ backfields. DeJong, a senior, spent time at TEas well. in the trenches on both sides of lhe ball this Jesse Deppe. Maple Valley: A sophomore fall holding down the left tackle spot offen­ linebacker for lhe Lions, Deppe had 44 tack­ sively. Defensively, Dubois recorded 15 tackles les. including five for a loos, one sack and two fumble reveries in the six regular season including four for a loss. Zander Forbes, Hastings: Forbes was a key games. I le added 14 more tackles in the Lions component of the offensive line for the Saxons two playoff games. “As the season went on. Jesse became our as a sophomore this fall. He earned all-confer­ ence honorable mention in the Interstate-8 most aggressive defender. He leads our team Athletic Conference at right tackle for the in tackles and became one of our more emo­ tional leaders," coach Martin said. Saxons. Ricky Ramsey. Delton Kellogg. A sopho­ Forbes had an 84 percent blocking percent­ more linebacker. Ramsey had 4 tackles in the age and was at 88 percent for on target block­ Panthers’ six regular season games and two ing. interceptions. He was named honorable men­ Martin Hollern, Lakewood: The Vikings tion all-conference in ll>e SAI. senior center spent his third season on lhe Offensively. Ramsey had a team-high six varsity this fall. touchdowns and ru>hed the ball 41 times for Hollern was named second team all-confer­ 13.6 yards. . . „ , ence in lhe GLAC this season. Defensive Back Travis Mater, Maple Valley: Mater, a junior, Vinnie Quick. Delton Kellogg: Mixing tfnie is a three-year starter al center for the Lions. at defensive back and running back. QUjck | Grayson Patton, Hastings: Il was a strong had 2 tackles, two sacks, a forced fumble and season al corner for lhe Saxon senior. an interception on the defensive side Of Patton had an 82 percent blocking percent­ ball during his sophomore fall. age and was at 86 percent for on target blot Offensively, Quick rushed 37 times for 247 ing in the Saxons’ stats. yards and three touchdowns. Austin Rounds. Thornapple Kellogg. Rounds had a strong senior season on the eno Continued next page of the line for TK. �JO-Thursday, Dumber3. 2020 - Th* HastingsBanner 2020 Fall All-Barry County College-bound, all-state spikers lead county squads RrrU Bremer Brett Bremer Sports Editor If ever)thing goc> as hoped, a volleyball team representing Barry County still has three volleyball matches to go this season. The 2020 varsity volleyball season got a late start. Volleyball players opened practice outdoors in August. finding courts or places to put up nets wherever they could. The Lakewood varsity volleyball team started in t he sand at the Lake Odessa Fairgrounds, eventually graduated to indoor practice, won their way to another Greater Lansing Activities Conference Championship and earned a place in the Division 2 State Quarterfinals before emergency orders from the state health depart­ ment put the final matches of the season hold. A restart is planned for the coming weeks, but nothing is guaranteed. The Barry County volleyball players all made lhe most of their time on the court, deal­ ing with masks and quarantines to have some fun and win some matches with their team­ mates. Every one of the county teams faced stiff competition in their conferences. Each con­ ference is still represented in the state tourna­ ment. Lakewood isn’t the only GLAC repre­ sentative still alive as Lansing Christian has reached the quarterfinal round of the Division 4 State Tournament. Schoolcraft from the Southwestern Athletic Conference is still alive and well in the Division 3 State Tbumament. In Division 2. there is still a chance that the second ranked Lakewood girls run into top ranked Grand Rapids Christian from the OK Gold Conference by the end of the tournament. A few seniors, represented on this list, have already made their collegiate volleyball plans and there are underclassmen who will certain­ ly be doing the same some day. Here are the 2020 All-Barry County Volley ball First and Second Teams. All-Barry County Volley ball First Team Skylar Bump. Lakewood: The Vikings’ sophomore setter put up 1 JOI3 assists and 124 kills during the regular season, putting attacks uivay with a 457 hitting percentage. She also had 57 aces, 291 digs and 72 blocks. Bump earned first team all-conference honors in the GLAC this fall and is already over 2300 var­ sity assists in her two seasons. "Skylar runs our offense and makes it look effortless. We are currently hitting .330 on the year and have played many of the best teams in the state," coach Cameron Rowland said. “Our 38-2 record is a direct reflection of her ability to lead our team. Skylar is a top 150 kid in lhe nation in her (recruiting) class and when rankings are out later this year will have moved even further up the list." Keilyn Carpenter, Maple Valley: Taking her _____ j .. _j ■. i »-*■ » ’" -'u ■— season season wntie while compiling compiling 71 n kills u hitting percentage. She added 11 a* sts’ ■■ Skylar Bump Keilyn Carpenter Carley Piercefield talents to Wayne State University next season. Carpenter capped off an outstanding four-year varsity career by totaling 429 kills which puts her at 2200 for her varsity career. She also had 344 aces, 1,110 digs and 79 blocks over her four seasons. Carpenter has been named First Team AllGLAC in each of her four years, and closed out her sophomore and junior campaigns with all-state honors. She set a new career high with 35 kills in a match this fall. Trista Medina, Maple Valley: The Lions’ senior setter in her fourth varsity season, she put up 458 assists this year to finish with a career total of 2,247. j Medina also had 33 kills, 133 digs and 10 blocks on the season as well as 41 aces. She did nil that in just 61 sets: She was named second team all-conference in the GLAC this season. a Aubrey O’Gorman, Lakewood: /X senior middle blocker who had 409 kills, a 501 hit­ ting percentage, seven assists, 59 aces, 76 digs and 104 solo blocks during her senior campaign. She is a Miss Volleyball Finalist in the state and a first-team all-conference selec­ tion in the GLAC. "Aubrey has once again showed off her many talents on the court this season, but has also grown immensely as a leader for the team, and her off-court presence will be missed next year. Aubrey is head to MSU to play next fall,” Lakewood head coach Cameron Rowland said. “Aubrey is widely considered the best middle in the state and is a top 50 recruit nationally in her class." Maradith O'Gorman. Lakewood: The Vikings’junior right side hitter compiled 464 kills during the regular season, with a 385 hitting percentage. She added 39 assists, 57 aces, 291 digs and 72 blocks while earning first team al I-conference in the GLAC. She has already surpassed 1,500 varsity kills and 1,000 career digs. ‘‘Maradith has upped her game once again this season leading us in kills, being a primary passer and one of our best defenders,” head coach Cameron Rowtad said. “Maradith’s all-around skills are srtond to none I have ever coached. She k'nlso a top 50 recruit nationally and tep two in her class in the state." Carley Piercefield, Lake wood: Tire Vikings' freshmen libero has already earned her first all-region honors and was named first team all-conference in the GLAC. She had a 75 percent perfect pass ration this season while tallying 502 digs (more than five per set). She also compiled 84 assists and 14 aces during the regular season. "Carley is without a doubt the best libero I have ever coached. Her touch on the ball and defensive range set her apart. She is the top libero in her class in the state and one of the best in the nation,” coach Cameron Rowland said. Ellie Shoobridge, Thomapple Kellogg: Shoobridge was named honorable mention .'ill-conference in the OK Gold this fall as a senior middle. Shoobridge was one of the Trojans’ kill leaders with 91 on the season. She hit that number while recording a kill efficiency of .352. She also had 19 aces on the season. Chloe Teachout. Thomapple Kellogg: An all-region selection in Division I as a senior middle blocker. She had 105 kills on the year, finishing with a kill efficiency of 248. All-Barry County Volleyball Second Team Lexi Blain, Delton Kellogg: The Panthers’ senior setter, Lexi led her team in assists with 132 assists on 635 attempts. She earned hon­ orable mention all-conference in the Southwestern Athletic Conference. Blain has plans to continue her volleyball playing days at Glen Oaks Community College. She rounded out her senior season numbers with 19 blocks, five solo blocks and 39 digs. Sophie Duits. Lakewood: A senior middle blocker for the Vikings. Duits earned second team all-conference honors in the GLAC this "Of course, this is a ver)’ sad topic," she began. "We lost Charlie; he is irreplaceable, but unfortunately, we have to move on. "... Charlie’s seat will become vacant on Dec. 20." she said. “Of course, wecan act before that, but we need to appoint someone to serve as the new village president, and that person has to come from the existing council members. And then once that position is filled, and we have the new village president, we need to appoint a new village council person." The next election, in November 2022, would be the end of lhe term for both the new village president and the new village council member, Rayl added. However, depending on who is elected for the new village president,] the term could be two or four years. j "They may or may not finish a two-year term for someone or start a brand new fouryear term," Rayl said. "It is just really going to depend on who the. next village president is, and whether that person is going to fill a partial term or would fill a full term once that election happens in 2022.” Trustee Mike Lytle asked about the .'Tjiclarified that Il V.ouid iio: be c<&sidcr&>i f'uiI ,enn because Nov. 2(),;the dto affice^ an-’ swom in, has already. pa<set^There1ort.-Wc new v‘Hagc president wcjuJ $en/e jrort the day he or she is sworn in until November 2022, Rayl said. There confusion ,onS the term would 21* sorneone frere to take President $o Tempore She® Ronning’s place, coilsMering her term is <e$nically four years. Ronaing was re-el#*1 lhc counci! last month: ; .idlormatKm. wilh more discussion; will occur thc neXt v’llaBe council meeting 1'uesdi)’,5‘ slartin8 at 7 P-tn. The link for this mecl,ng can be found on the v11,age ‘wcbs,le» villageofmiddleville.or?. . 1 aces and 74 digs and 34 blocks this “Sophie has been instrumental in£ cess this season,” coach Cameron Rc> said. "She is a great leader and her pres* noticeable. She would be a kill leader • „ inc setter on any other team in the coun^'. Lexi Herblet. Hastings: Herblet is a sen or outside hitter and defensive specialist tor Saxons who capped her second season on me varsity by earning honorable mention all*oon fcrence in the Intcrstatc-8 /Xthletic ConferenceHerblet had 87 kills, 25 aces, five assists and seven blocks on the year as a captain an team leader for Hastings. Tyah Jefferson, Thomapple KelloggJefferson was named honorable mention all-conference in rhe OK Gold this fall. Jefferson 101 kills on the year while also hitting 14 aces as a senior outside hitter. Emma Kokx, Delton Kellogg: A presence at the net for lhe Panthers, the junior middle led her hitters in kill percentage at 31 percent. Kokx also was big on the block with 99 on the season including 20 solo blocks. Coach Erin Thornton said she also came in handy in the back row after serving, recording 62 pass­ es and 31 digs. Claudia Lems, Thomapple Kellogg: The Trojans senior setter cams all-county second team honors for the second season in a row. Lems finished the year with 269 assists and 26 kills overall. She hit 30 aces while con­ necting on 95.4 percent of her serves. Josie Lyons. Delton Kellogg: The Panthers’ senior libero earned first team all-conference honors in the Southwestern Athletic Conference this fall. Lyons played every set for the Panthers at the libero spot this year and hit 60 percent of her 309 serve receives to target while commit­ ting just four errors on 304 passes. She closed the season with 174 digs. Olivia Roush, Maple Valley: The Lions’ junior libero was named honorable mention all-conference in the GLAC this fall in her third varsity season. Roush had a career best 397 digs this sea­ son, while also setting new single season highs in assists with 58 and aces with 47. Hannah Slaughter, Hastings: A senior mid­ dle and the Saxons best blocker. Slaughter closed the year with 57 solo blocks and 21 block assists. She also had 43 kills and six aces. She was named academic all-conference in the 1-8. "She was a leader of the team and was one of the most encouraging players I have ever had," Hastings head coach Tiffany Hendershot said. "She always had a smile on her face and kept her teammates going." . Lions earn academic Middleville considers process to fill president’s seat all-state honors from MIVCA Savanah Kachcle Contributing Writer The Middleville Village Council is facing a decision on appointing a new village president following the death of president Charlie Pullen. The council also will likely have to decide on filling a vacant seat on the council once a new president is appointed. During a committee of the whole meeting Tuesday afternoon, discussion centered around filling those seats. Whoever they appoint as village president would fill the vacancy left by Pullen, who served in that post for 11 years. . Pullen, 71, died Nov. 20 of complications from COVID-19. Village Manager Patricia Rayl explained the process to lhe council Tuesday. Pullen was re-elected Nov. 3 and was to be swom in Nov. 20. 7Vlu/ not buy a Hastings Banner H IV Hastings Barry County □1 Year $52.00 Allegan, Calhoun, Eaton, Ionia, Kalamazoo and Kent Counties: *—1 Sm I'M ANNER Outside of Above Counties for 5 Months or More • 1 Year $65.00 ALL-COUNTY FOOTBALL, from previous Pa&e Victor Ramirez HH^ R‘VnircZ T* some big P|ays f. lb< SaW"s. secondary, knocking down six 'u,rccpt,ng while also recov^1*? U"ueS-• Ramirez, a juniorM* 33 'aCkki S‘X games. Dennv tackks n laue<i; Md lun’tnr , Sauers had 26 secondary $10.00 per month 1 Year $60.00 P.O. Box 188, Hastings, Ml 49058 269-945-9554 . ^‘^rajiapfle Kellogg; A h l[,nnK>rhay.s for the Trojans, Wm °ldc,c,hivc ,n his ‘ JhnicrWys hnd an Eastern. • ^^son winatl-o^ *t 13 tackles this Suminerhays had season. The Maple Valley varsity volleyball team was recently awarded acaderf# Estate honors from the Michigan Interscholastic Volleyball Coaches Association. team’s three seniors also earned individual academic all-state awards. Team n^bers this year include (front from left) Emma Pierce, Trista Medina. Ashlyn W^s’ Keilyn Carpenter, Lexi Booher, Lydia Schilz, Olivia Roush and (missing from p^0) Holly Rosin. The team was coached by (back from left) Timara Wehr, Jacob Co® and Sarah Carpenter. (Photo by Capture Photography) l~hc Maple Valley girls have been honored by the Michigan Interscholastic Volleyball Coaches Association (MIVCA) for their aca­ demic achievements. The Maple Valley varsity volleyball team Was recently awarded team academic all-state honors for a GPA of 3.3 or higher. ’Lhe team’s collective GIA is 3.79, That number is boosted, in part, by the team’s three seniors. Setter lYista Medina, outside hitler Keilyn Carpenter and middle blocker Aihlyn Wilkes all indi'idual academic all-stafc award, •» wh‘«»> go • go senior athletes with GPA#,d or higher Maple Valley head coach S^ah Carpenter called het girls' achievem.'n|-“Phen'>ra':nal." tr n!ap e »al,ey Schools P>l«ll««n<Jent Dr. Katherine Bertolini wrote» dle team. “I am results from yOUr indi,TJu-* work and >o«r collective eommin*1” “ a to be exceptional both on the^ “nd ofp" � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-12-10.pdf dbd02e19f3dc1311d86f5c5d3aeab66b PDF Text Text Barry-Roubaix finally returns August 2021 Hop*,s °ur greate^ strength See Story on Page 12 See Editor'!L^'Page 4 All-County soccer and | swim teams named See Stories on Pages 10 & 11 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 1070490102590502403749058195427 ....................CAR-RT LOT“C 003 COOS Hastings Pub.’.c Library 227 E State St Hastings Ml 49058-1954 ANNER Thursda^®".^2^2020 VOLUME 167, No. 49 PRICE $1.00 Federal judge denies sheriff’s election challenge 22 months and one da> after the election, she Writing implement triggered voter concerns about ballot integrity Taylor Owens Staff Writer A federal judge, citing a lack of evidence and other deficiencies, denied an election challenge by Barry County Sheri if Dar Leaf against state officials. Leaf, in his official capacity as sheriff, sought an emergency restraining order Sunday against Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and the board of state canvassers to prevent implementation of a memorandum requiring county and township clerks to delete data on e-pollbook laptops and flash drives. U.S. District Judge Robert Jonker, chief judge of the Western District of Michigan, denied that request Monday. Leaf said the purpose of his request was to keep potential evidence fora possible investi­ gation from being destroyed. The e-pollbook data contains a record of who voted, and what ballot they were issued. But local clerks said wiping (he data trom ^Leaf’s applied*00 Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf computers does not destroy the information. Hastings City Clerk Jane Saunnan said it is standard procedure to clear that data from the computers after it has been uploaded to the state and a hard copy has been made by the clerks. Barry' County Clerk Pamela Palmer and township clerks have paper copies of all the information that is being wiped from the com­ puters.'flic clerks also preserve the ballots for !hc court, written by Detroit attorney Junttila. included sworn 5 -v sevcn Barry County citizens. The,r. co,Jccrns focused pri­ marily on the writing imp ements that voters used to fill out their ballots and that their ballots may not have been read correctly. In denying the request, Jonker wrote. “There are notarized affidavits attached to the applications, each describing the individual’s experience while voting in the November election. But these do not ‘clearly show’ an immediate and irreparable injury, especially where, as here, the applications do not slate any federal cause of action. “Indeed,” Jonker continued, “rather than meet this standard. Plaintiffs’ Applications invite the Court to make speculative leaps towards a hazy and nebulous inference that there has been numerous instances of election fraud and that Defendants are destroying evi­ dence. There is simply nothing of record to infer as much, much less conclude that irrep­ arable injury will occur before the defendants can be heard.” In the request. Hastings resident Jada Chadwick said she wis concerned about the type of equipment the polls used. See D£NtES, page 5 Santa connects with kids - no matter what Santa Claus met with a bunch of youngsters, their parents and grandparents, heard Christmas wishes and posed for photos in the front window of At Home Real EstateA 107 E. State St., in downtown Hastings on Friday and Saturday. The weather cooper­ ated and children were excited at the chance to see Santa in downtown Hastings on Saturday. See more about Santa’s visit, inside. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce') So-rf business owner shows teachers appreciation with Christmas gift Sophie Bates Staff Writer The CO VID-19 pandemic has made the 2019-20 and 2020-21 school years unlike any others for Hastings and other districts across the country. Even though the Hastings Area School System has had success preventing the spread of COVID-19 in the schools, a single positive case among high school teachers led to a staff shortage. When several teachers had to quarantine, it caused a quick shift to remote learning. Then bus services were canceled for 14 days due to an almost identical situation among bus drivers. The biggest change came Nov. 16 when rising infection rates across Barry County prompted the cancellation of m-person classes and the switch to remote learning. In-person learning was scheduled io resume Nov. 27. Cheryl Goggins’ a middle school teacher holds her ornament. "Teachers do what they do without any expectation of recognition. It’s our iob to help our students in any vM we can-"she said- “It was a pleasant surprise to receive the ornament. II is a Per,fecl reminder that others notice our efforts and are grateful. I am very apprecia,ive of Mr. Puls' gift." but has since been postponed until Jan. 18, 2021. “The COVID-19 variables have certainly created problems with program planning, staffing, extracurricular activities and many other issues within our school system," interim Superintendent Matt Goebel wrote in a letter announcing the extension of remote learning. While the school year has posed challenges for everyone in the district, teachers have been placed in a particularly difficult position — forced to change course as quickly as the virus, learn completely new technologies and find ways to engage with students online. “This school year started out challenging simply due to having all of our staff and students wear a mask and then cleaning chairs and tables after each class ended," middle school English teacher Rebecca Wigg said. “Now- that we are virtual, the challenges have become more difficult. We are holding Google meetings with our students every day except Fridays, and try ing to teach through the lens of a camera is tough. "We find ourselves, as educators, missing our student interactions and relationships that See APPRECIATION, page 2 Special gift inside Barry County merchants and community supporters are bringing youngsters a special early Christmas gift: Inside this edition of the Hastings Banner s a 32-page holiday-themed coloring book, thanks to these local businesses and community-minded members. So, while parents are getting ready for Christmas, kids can focus on self-expression through their artwork. Merry Christmas’ Arsofi suspect to be examined for competency to stand trial Taylor Owens Staff Writer a i Keimin Sochor will under­ Arson suspedL• todetennine jgn a psychological . , if he is compeient to s«n<l S<x1K>r,2l,ofH3sm^n^|.)n weilh *Hh third-degree ar>o . Oct. 7 burning of the -‘ s «»g located at 400 Bast MUI bl|i|d. ( in Stings. pr inted a motion Judge Michael Schippe I;ind an ^^Mawyer.Tttnottg T^n^ S'r by Barry Coun y Pex.llI)jne(j. Pratt to have Sex. ‘Mr.Tromp filled me m 0,1 be had received and. * ^h,Pper in court Wednesday « jnfortna(I)yl jjseus,. > (| I0|d “I almost always grant competency exams when requested,’’ Judge Schipper said. “I don’t know the person, you have time t0 spend time with them. If you think it’s an issue, wc should get that cleared up right away, so 1’11 order that to be done.” Scxrhor, who is being held in the Barry County Jail, attended the hearing via Zoom. “Mr. Sochor.” Schipper said, “you under­ hand that what’s going to happen is you're going to be meeting with a psychologist, a psychiatrist, someone who will talk to you and see what your mental stale is? Make sure, when you meet with them, you’re open and honest with them so that they can evalu­ ate you property and they can provide help if See SUSPECT, page 3 Keigan Sod'of "ends his Barry County Distr|c* Court hearing Wednesday inom'n9 *'a Zoom. 9 269-945-9554 • ; '• ’ �-x_ manV ways Faithful customers support local merchants in many 2 — Thursday, December i o. 2020 — The Hastings Banner ’ _ ___________ ---- ------- .------- —— - ---------- Sophie Bates “You’ve got to support Staff mter '' Ju<ty VanAman. a Hastings resident of 35 these small businesses. years, shops locally for just about everything There’s so many of them >no. can. b “I don't shop out of the area hardly ever and they’ve had a hard ’Anymore.” VanAman said. “1 try to support time — especially this ‘the community as much *s I van. If I can't \ftnd it here, I will go elsewhere. But if I can year. Just try it.” ;find it here, I will [buy it here].” > VanAman used to own a small business in Beverly Vander Mey, fastings — a restaurant called Pall Creek — devoted downtown shopper Jjrith her husband. She remembers what it was {Wee to rely on thr community to support ^herself and her family; now she tries to return because that’s their job. .the favor as often as possible. "[For] local businesses, it’s more than a ' “I support the businesses that are part of the job. It’s what they do. So I think that they give ■community. I think without us shopping, they .have to rely on people coming in from you better attention." One of VanAman’s favorite shops is The 'outside,” VanAman said. “I mean, they’re here and they’re part of us, so we should shop Sugar Ribbon — a boutique that sells clothing, accessories and jewelry. She’s been a patron there.” Beyond simply the virtue of supporting of the boutique often enough to fonn a .local businesses. VanAman said she enjoys relationship with the shop's owner Kendy the 'iuperior customer service and personal Varble. “1 just love Kendy," VanAman said. “And interactions of shopping at smaller stores, t "If you go into a small business and you go not only do they have cute stuff, they are just in there often, they obviously get to know really a pleasure to talk to.” Varble listed VanAman as one of her most Jy ou. So. there's a little more chit-chat and ‘Hi, how arc you?’ ” VanAman said. "I think they Joyal customers and one of many who support are friendlier, you know, than when you go to The Sugar Ribbon. , “I have to say, all my customers — there’s a big store. They will take care of your needs. t — Mid' have so many customers d ,wn . ^locally .'^Varble su^rinhsomi,n>«) ^TTd- With them, h nJ^'X °f1?ownto*" Hashng. She s:dd& " happen four years inn ’ . few downtown shoos 3 decrease in business for ,hcSSnfngs,oreSjCadln8,° more closures. .... . Even small purchases are vrod to the survival of small business5’ V‘ J ”,d’ noting a pair of earrings or a s,nalJ ?t(X*,ng stuffcr can add up and help Rccp a buMne3s afloat. Those who can't shop ,can sti" support community busincsses in 0,her *ays’ she said. _ . “Keep talking about do*ntown Has!’nEs and how amazing it is and ho* many places there are to shop in Hastings” Varble said "And there are still many [restaurants offering] takeout downtown so they c;,n c°me and shop and then pick up takeout on their way home as a treat for their ftntHies. Taunia Storment, owner ^aunias Treasure Trunk, said during difficult times like these, customers help hef Sel lbrouBh‘‘The kind words that 1 always hear them say - that prices arc unbeatable, staff is friendly and it’s always pst g^it uplifting words that come out of their mouths that keep APPRECIATION, continued from page 1 • , . . . us „i plugging along. ”„ Storment said. As n consignment shop, it’s difficult lor Storment to pursue alternative pandemic­ friendly shopping methods. So she appreciates the customers who stop in to peruse her ever­ changing inventory. “Just coming in. always checking to see new items that have been put out...” Stomicnt 5aid. "Sometimes all they do is, they’re in town and they pop in to say ‘Hi’ and see how things are. They are always concerned about me and the business.” Jody Peterson, manager of The South Jefferson Street General Store, suggested supporting small businesses by bringing friends or family when shopping, an idea she got from one of her customers. "They come in and shop and they bring friends. Wc have one customer in particular who [is] just always bringing one or two different friends in with her.” Peterson said. Due to the pandemic, Peterson and the staff have opened up private shopping sessions when the store is not normally open. Some customers use these sessions as shopping parties, she said, inviting several friends or family members to shop with them. Her store offers puzzles, games, stuffed animals, kitchen products, glassware, cards, toys, candles, soaps, lotions, purses and other bags, and more. The downstairs has a large selection of children's books and toys. their uS anu Pn*ate r ... ,.:ill 115 « own. they can, r or after hours or they shopping time befom . 3rty, if they want can put together a sho^rP^,,^ they m i ** I to just conic * peterson saidcomfortable with. E hopping at a local Peterson noted tha dcnl artists or Store Often SUPP°^ jhe General Store, for other small busmesses. ction of made.ln. example, has » hug' customers can Michigan prtxluc . ■ maximize their tn>|M“te.jn.Michigan section ■•Wc have a big madI niore Michjgan and that allows us to _PP^,. Pc[eriOn said, and Barry Coun y I« P Hustings or any ••When you spend mon y jn Barry of the surrounding st ))(;re County, the m<)ncy'^, ,Ihe community by we are able to support me giving jobs." another dedicated Beverly Vander My. wh0 don.t local shopper, is urg ng hing new this usually shop locally' ’ iven Ihe impact holiday season -parti y • businesSes. that COVID-19 has had on s,"a" y know the people. The people a in there arc so friendly and. you know, yo a few times and they get to know yo . Stealth fighter plane arriving at Air Zoo this week The Air Zoo in Portage has announced the arrival of its newest aircraft. Over recent days, Air Zoo President and CEO Troy Thrash, along with a crew of dedicated transportation specialists, embarked on a journey of 1,940 miles to bring the aerospace and science center’s new aircraft home to the Air Zoo. The new plane is a stealth fighter, a Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk, Tail No. 817, and nicknamed Shaba. "I really can’t believe the time has finally come, to sign for and start this exciting journey back to Southwest Michigan, with the first operational Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk released for public display east of the Rockies,” Thrash said as he prepped for the trip to Tonopah, Nev., Nov. 30. “This is a monumental event for not only the Air Zoo family, but for everyone in Southwest Michigan, and this positive news could not have come at a better time.” Air Zoo staff was notified last year that they would receive one of the first Lockheed F-117 Nighthawks released for public display. This plane represents the U5. Air Force’s first active military stealth aircraft, and the Air Zoo team could not be more excited to have been chosen for this honor, Thrash said. The Air Zoo is expected to be the first noa-govemmcntal facility in the country' and the only museum in the state of Michigan - to publicly display an F-117. The highly decorated Shaba was transported across the country on two trucks. The truck carrying the wings and tail fins arrived in Kalamazoo late Saturday night. The cargo was unloaded Tuesday morning at the Air Zoo’s Flight Discovery Center. The Air Zoo team eagerly anticipated the arrival of the fuselage Wednesday afternoon, and planned to off-load it Thursday. .’ ; ; Staff will work with a. team from the Tonopah Test Range to reunite Shaba’S main components for display on the Flight Discovery Center's exhibit fb-'f /Thursday and Friday, Dec. 10 and 11. The Air Zoo’s restoration team will work to recreate the aircraft’s leading edges and paint her for display at the Flight Innovation Center near the end of 2021 . While under restorative care, Shaba will be available for guests to see up close. Anyone interested in learning more about project “Get Shaba” may connect with the Air Zoo on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter or on their dedicated Facebook Group page at www.facebook.com/groups/geLshaba About the Air Zoo The Air Zoo is a not-for-profit organization open 360-plus days per year. More information, including hours, tickets, safety policies and procedures as well as temporarily altered experiences due to COVID-19, can be found at airzoo.org. Art Puls (right), carrying the ornaments in a cardboard box, stands next to interim Superintendent Matt Goebel as several Hastings teachers gather to receive their gifts and thank Puls last week. we were able to have face-to-face, and our students arc missing that, as well.” Local resident Art Puls recognized the challenges teachers have overcome to provide a quality education to their students and decided they needed a reminder of how much the community appreciates their efforts. "Having to change their methods, basically week to week, as the government bounces back and forth between in-class and virtual learning, can’t be easy,” Puls said. "Their hard work and dedication is not going unnoticed, not just parents, but by the rest of the community, as a whole.” Puls is the owner of A&M Lazer Gifts, which he and his wife Mary opened less than six months ago partially due to the pandemic. They personalize and engrave a variety of products. Puls decided to use the tools and products available to him through the shop to create a personalized gift for teachers. As Christmas neared, ornaments were the obvious choice. Made out of Baltic birch, the ornaments are engraved with a laser, sanded and stained. ‘Dedicated Teacher’ fills the circular ornament’s center in large cursive writing, with a message written along its edge: “I will teach you in a room. I will teach you on Zoom. I will teach you in a house. I will teach you with my mouse. I will teach you here and there. I will teach you because 1 care,” the message reads, reminiscent of a Dr. Seuss rhyme. In a week’s time, Puls made more than 200 ornaments to be distributed to teachers throughout the Hastings district and offered to make more if needed or wanted. "I felt valued as an educator that Art wanted to give all teachers in the district a special ornament,” Wigg said. "It was so thoughtful of him. I loved what he wrote on the ornaments because it was perfect for how we are currently teaching. I’ve already hung mine on our tree at home.” Cheryl Goggins, another middle school English teacher, said Puls’ gift made her recognize how much more work she’s put in compared to other years. "I haven’t thought much about how much extra time we have all spent making sure lessons are adapted to work remotely, or how much lime we have invested with students trying to help them through not just the material, but emotionally supporting them as they navigate difficulties, or helping them organize their time," Goggins said. "As teachers, we are used to supporting kids emotionally and academically, but the stakes feel higher and the weight feels greater this year. Mr. Puls’ gift came at just the right time — reminding me that this is what I was meant to do." To express his gratitude for Puls’ gift, Goebel gathered a few teachers last week to receive their gifts from Puls in person. "Knowing how hard our staff works each and every day and how proud of them I am, I genuinely love working in a community where there is such a high level of regard for educators,” Goebel said. "This school year has been a very difficult one, and this kind gesture by Mr. Puls is just another example of the generous nature of the Hastings community.” Puls said he also hopes this gesture encourages others in the community to support small businesses, like his own, this holiday season. “We’re new, we’re here, we’re local, we’re your neighbors. Shop small business, shop local. Keep Hastings growing.” ■’uls,sJaidA&M Lazer Gifts products are sold at The South Jefferson Street General Store and The Cookie Store, allowing shopped to support two small businesses at once if they so choose. r Puls, who moved to Hasting’wilh his wife five years ago, pointed 0U1 his gesture is not uncommon for Hastings as it ml8h,t ~ 1,1 other communities In fact, he stud, it s a testament to what makes Hasting5.special‘We’ve lived " weJt M^gan Pretty much our entire lives We’'‘ ,hrou^ Hastings many times and tho“Eht w““ d »* a food place to “e ,be °PP°rtuni'y Panted itself jj ove; five aS°,’t^ made the move," “'1d-"'Ve’vC.'T* ">e small town feel pay-n-fonvard ntentality, the neighbor l>clPinB W,‘8hto “•I those things th6. Puts l,p serV,“ £,i: °r “r uooui, do you?’’ "O”1 he Joy Report J-Ad Graphics staff is currently working on a special local story about joy for an upcoming issue of The Reminder. So, staff is asking everyone in the community, during this joyous season, how do your family, friends and neighbors find joy? Responses may be emailed to news@j-adgraphics.com; dropped off at or mailed to J-Ad Graphics, 1351 N. M-43 Highway. Hastings. 49058; or called in to 269-945-9554 no later than noon Tuesday, Dec. 15. NEWS BRIEFS Troopers collecting toys, food Saturday The Michigan State Police Wayland Post will host its annual "Sluff the Blue Goose” food and toy drive Saturday. Dec. 12, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Wal-Mart stores in Hastings and Plainwell. Both locations will be staffed by Michigan State Police Troopers collect­ ing much-needed non-perishable food and toys for families in need during the holidays. Many food banks see a daily increase requesting food assistance during the lead-up to the holidays. The most request­ ed items during this time of year tre canned fruit and vegetables, canned meat such as tuna and chicken, boxed potatoes peanut butter, cereal, and cooking oil All food and toy donations will lw ,lcCcpted and distributed to families in need to help everyone celebrate during this time of year. ^.nations of food and toys collected m Hastings will be delivered to Batry County United Way. which oversees the Toys for Barry County Kids collection program. Hastings library to close holiday weekends Hastings I\iblic Library will be closed from 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 24, through Saturday, Dec. 26, for the Christmas hol­ iday and beginning at 3 P-ni. Thursday, Dec. 31. through Saturday, Jan. 2. 2021, for the new' year. The decision was made at the virtual library board meeting Monday afternoon. While the library is closed, digital con­ tent is available and can accessed through the library’s website. ’Phase who utilize the library’s internet can still access free Wi-Fi from the parking lot. The library has been closed to the pub­ lic since Nov. 18 due to CO VID-19 but is using the drive-through to facilitate item pickups, fax and copy services and library card renewals. The building can only be accessed by the public for a computer appointment. 'Ihe library also recently adjusted its hours. Il is open Monday, Fuesday and Friday from IDa.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday and lliursJay from 10 ami. to 7 p.m. antj Saturday from 10 a m. to 2 pm. �The Heelinqs Benner—Thursday, 0^'10.2020 Letters to Santa keep flowing *n Luke Fninrhe** W'W"T „ c in io*"aanta Claus was na< Uuetines last week The jolly old elf came to ‘o meet with local fannuc Kris Kringle **< w . Real Estate and he front window ,n' ,h a microphone and spoke to children througn speaker set-up. famUics, Snnti opened After he met h$h j h.sma1lhox .n Ha>»nP childrcn downtown. He g<* . d over Barrv County - and ocyona. Sana picked son* of those letters lo share with Banner readers: Dear Santa, I have been really good this year. I have been helping my brother with math. This year for Christmas I would like a: -tank for a turtle - heat lamp - a thermometer My mom and dad said they would look into a turtle for me. but I need things for him. -1 also need food for him and a bowl - fake rocks - some shelter for him Also, can you make sure all the animals at the shelter get toys and bones for Christmas? Also, if you have time, I would like a - glamper - Polly Pocket compacts - lol dolls Only if you have room in your sleigh. Give the reindeer a hug for me. Madison : •**?» O' Downtown Hastings businesses and community supp°rters ’ out a sa^ to bring Santa and children together this season. Kids may not be able to sit on Santa’s lap this year, but that didn’t stop the big man in red from meeting with youngsters when he was in the front window of At Home Real Estate, 107 E. State St., in downtown Hastings on Friday and Saturday. -5“ De;ir Santa, Hi. My elves, have been naughty, but it’s funny. ICs also silly. I want the Lego movie 2. candy, bad kitty books, chilla.x OMG doll, cake decorating set, Hocus Pocus board game, and everyone to be happy. Eden Parents were going to get photos ot their kids with Santa - one way or another. Ant) Santa made that possible by stopping by downtown Hastings ‘ leek, Dear Santa, This year I want 3 things: I want the coro­ navirus to be over. I want to spend Christmas with my family. And I want some Lego. Luke Dear Santa Claus, How’ are the reindeer doing? My favorite reindeer is Dasher because he is fast. I want 3 things for Christmas: I will tell you them right now: Number One is Schleich horses. Number Two is a hoverboard. (Can it be blue because blue is my favorite color?) Number Three is a horse blanket that I can use. And I hope you will enjoy your cookies and milk. I will leave carrots out for the reindeers’ snack. Bye Santa Claus. Riley SUSPECT, continued from page 1 that's needed, OK? "Yes, sir," Sochor replied. “Do you have any questions for me, Mr. Sochor?" Scliipper asked. •nJe orob^bkwuseConference. which was oriXn7«heduled for Wednesday morning, originally sc |ime was delaywl dc)ays KcumJ because Pratt said pre suspects is still an investigation into <”'> taking place. r t0 charge three addiA decision on n soon, Pratt said, tional suspects should np^Qse to but she does not e p charged with arson. charge against The third-degree in prison and a Sochor carries up value of the propfine of up to three tin enforccrncnt officials, erty, according ™ Iaw. ( SoChor in connecAdditional charges a** jnc|ude: prepara­ tion with the allege ‘ carries up to 10 lion to bum property* (s of entry wjthycars in prison; and commit a crime, out breaking with J11 jn prison. which carry' llP 10 f,v ? has been charged in Police said Sochor tUsob^d to have a separate incident a computer to taken place Sept. 16* W\aWfully driving awaY commit a crime, and u from a scene. Seeing Santa is a family affair and local kids got to talk to Santa - in a safe manner in downtown Hastings on Friday and Saturday. Santa Claus will be back in Hastings at the At Home Real Estate storefront, meet­ ing with local children Friday. Dec. 18, and Saturday, Dec. 19, from 2 to 4 p.m. Are you looking for a career that changes lives? Train now to become an emergency medical technician (EMT)! 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Did you 10. »» ~ ™ see Hope is our greatest Remember What the Grinch figured out strength The Gnnch made an appearance in downtown Hastings Saturday and kids I and ttieir families were happy to see even this particular harbinger of the Yuletide season After all. in the end. the •Grinch figured out the true meaning of Christmas - which no one can steal. His I story seems to apply very well to these 'challenging times. Santa may be the most popular attraction (or kids and their families right now, but a wave from . Grinch is welcome, too. Preparing for pageant Have you Banner Dec. 8. 1955 Members of 15 churches this week put the finishing touches on their floats for the second annual Christ Back into Christmas" pageant. Here. Merle Cook, (left) Hubert Howell and Esther Cousins work on the Church of God s entry to depict the Wise Men and their gifts. mef? Paul Wing, 80. chairman of the Barry County Conservation Easement Board, has dedicated much of his life to the agricultural prosperity of Barry County. , His love for agriculture began very early in his life. He grew up in Assyria Township on Wing Acres Daily Fanns — which has been in his family since 1853 — and .eventually became the fourth generation of , his family to tend to the land. In the 1990s, Wing - who studied agriculture for two years al Michigan State University — began contemplating the future of his and others* farmland, prompted by both national and local discourse on the topic. “Back m the 1990s. there was quite a concent in the country — and the county, too — that a lol of good agricultural land w asbeing developed.” Wing said. • Expanding developments from nearby cities were slowly eating away at Barry County’s many acres of farmland, and other counties across the nation were experiencing similar issues. Eventually, rhe local conservation casement board was created to help preserve the county’s farmland. Wing was elected to the board in 2003 and has continued to serve almost 20 years now. “I got on the board because J was concerned, too.” Wing said. Thu conservation casement board is designed to protect the county \ fannland from development and ensure its economic, ecological and cultural benefits lor fuiurv generation 4*. Local farmers who wish to preserve their l^nd and protect it from dvAclopment (if they make it through the application /noccssi may their land development rights to the government. for an easement. HiU ensures their land cannot be developed. even if its ownership change. Dierc’s .should a concern that someday our kid. ?n<ndkids. whoever, might not have enough ^d to produce enough food to feed our co«otry. It\ not (haf Way n. hi now hut it et,uld gC( to be that way." Wmr >ud. So. Jo°get in\i)hedanddo what voucan to Ik Ip <>u’ Muahott’ Currently, one of the board’s main focuses i> applying for giants to cox er easement costs, he said: normally, the slate and federal government provide these funds. “Actually. we’re looking lor grants, h’s kind of expensive to puroha.se a development right. So. xvc would really like to have our own money not depend on the state or federal money to be able to purchase development rights right in Barry County.” Wing 'aid. I he board dsn hopes to raise awareness of the value of lai inland tor the community. “We’re working on agricultural development, economic development — trying to make the county and people aware • lint agriculture is the biggest business in the county. bi./gcr than .my one manufacturing business," U mg said. Wing said he would like to see his family’s farm preserved: however, mvmbeis of the boa id cannot apply u> be .» part of the conservation program. Altlkmcli hi -/’u and daughter-in-law, lorn and Heather Wing, now arc the fifth gcia-nP.ion to cwh the land. Paul Wing still helps them with the farm whenever he can. Wing and his wife of 61 years. Sue, have live children — Jenny Krauss, Abby Green. Beth Hoffman. Becky Noffsingcr and Tom Wing - 18 grandchildren and 10 great­ grandchildren: the couple also considers Liz C rowfoot to be their daughter. When they can. Wing and his wife enjoy •spending time with their descendants — the tilth-, sixth- and seventh-generation of Wings to appreciate the 500 acres of Wing Acres Dairy Farms. For his dedication to protecting agricultural land and preserving it for future generations, Paul Wing is this week’s Banner Bright Light. Best advice ever received: "Provide lor your family first, then the farm." Person I most admire: My wifc’Sue’ Book I Recommend: The Bible. Favorite teacher: Bill Garvey, my high school agriculture teacher and FFA adviser "ho helped me achieve the American Farmer Degree. Favorite season: Spring because it is getting warmer - crop planting Utne and leaves are growing on the trees. . . Childhood lessons: Make friends, and go to church. SomcihlnK lnosi pc„p1e don1' k>">» If I could change one Some things do last forever. For Christians and those of like Faiths folk, who gel battered the worst an- these around the world, hope has always been our guiding star and what has held us TSS-« »....... >*£ strong through every trial, including the more to do with control and political many we face today from the greatest favoritism than it docs with safety threat to mankind in KM) years: the Although there have been no official worldwide coronavirus pandemic. reports of small restaurants across the state We’re reminded of that hope right now being the source of virus spread, bigger as we mark the days of Advent, the lime of businesses seem to get the secret handshake. wailing and preparation for both the I was in the parking lot of a big-box store celebration of Christ’s birth and His return over the weekend where 1 found it hard to at the Second Coming. To Christians, the word Advent is I .atin for “Coming” and find a parking place. I’ll give the store within that expectation is the hope God some credit in that they were washing provided with the birth of His Son on down carls and had sanitizer available for the customers, but just the sheer number of Christmas Day. shoppers created a far more serious To be sure, this is a different Advent situation than do restaurants, movie season, and it’s understandable why, for many, hope may be difficult to hold. Many theaters and bowling establishments. Plus, businesses across the state got their churches are closed or restricted to smaller gatherings. In the community, we won’t winter taxes in the mail just in time to find see the Christmas parades or events like out they’ve been closed down again by the annual Jingle Mingle in Hastings. executive orders, making it even harder for Traditional events, such as holiday sales these independents to survive. The words of the late author Ayn Rand and dinners at our churches, won’t happen this year, either. Plus, company parties and don’t offer a lol of hope during a time getting together with family and friends when it’s most needed, but they do serve as a reminder of why we must never let our have been discouraged due to the virus. As we prepare to celebrate the first hope die. “We are fast approaching the stage of coming of Christ in Bethlehem and as we look to the future when Christ will come the ultimate inversion,” Rand said, “the again, wc feel the hope all around us. stage where the government is free to do During this Christmas season, we can still anything it pleases, while the citizens mayset aside time to prepare, to rejoice, to act only by permission: which is the stage think about giving to others less fortunate of the darkest periods of human history, the and getting ourselves into a better state of stage of brute force.” mind to experience this most joyous of By the time our leaders at the state and seasons. national levels come up with some relief, it As we stumble through these difficult will be too late for thousands of small times brought on by the pandemic, it’s business across the state. But. even in this more important than ever to keep our wits reality, hope still exists. about us. to see hope in the future and to Locally, the Barry Community focus on the real meaning of the season. Foundation and its supporters have come Christmas is always a time of celebration, to the rescue of restaurants across the bright lights and ornaments, get-togethers county with some financial relief. I’m and certain fixxls and treats that make the grateful for the foundation’s generosity season so special. The traditional songs and the good work it’s done helping those remind us. “It’s the most beautiful lime of in need throughout the year. It’s all about the year” and that we have so much for helping our neighbors - especially when which to be thankful. they need it most. We must all do our part to remain So. as we fumble through this* difficult healthy, count our blessings and express Christmas season, let’s focus on what we gratitude for what we have. The virus has can control and remember to open our made the situation difficult for everyone. hearts with generosity. When we think But. rather than fall into self-pity, we need about others, we take the focus off our ovv n to see the hope all around us. troubles. And that’s exactly when hope My hope is sustained by seeing people appears, built on a foundation of gratitude who’ve risen to the occasion and gone tor what we have and a desire to share it above and beyond their normal with others. responsibilities to serve us through the Merry Christmas, and let’s ail pray for pandemic. I’m grateful for the first better times in the New Year. Hope is responders, nurses and doctors and area forever. teachers w ho have done their best to adapt to the situation. I’m also grateful to the small businesses, such as our local retailers and restaurants for their dedication and perseverance and creativity to continue to operate and serve their customers in the wake of lock-down orders and political aspersions for not “following the science.” I’m also grateful, but also saddened, for the employees of these small businesses who have become pawns in the shutdown, especially when they’ve done their best to accommodate health officials in following Fred Jacobs, CEO. guidelines. With just weeks before J-Ad Graphics Inc. The Hastings BaiHlGlT Demoted to the interests of Barry County since 1856 pub’.shcdby. Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Nows and press releases: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising: ads@fadgraphics.com Frederic Jacobs Publisher & CEO Cbxs '-■<! ads accepted Monday through Tnday, 839am to 5.00 p.m. Hank Schuurinq CFO • NEWSROOM• Rebecca Pierce (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer (Sports Ed.lor) WhainiMXt m.O<^5 Sophie Bates Greg Chandler •md love. 1 am most content- When I'111 asleep’ ""•Hooo.rf-,’- po y11 ’ ' ^tumunity Jiiii'' [ intause of /<’< rhe . tilfor ledum.' '•lorif'. I, . . WHlt 1 jUi'K* Bunner, ’ yf/ or "•iiirtui' • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Luke Froncheck Taylor Owens Scott Ommen Mike Gilmore Ty Greenfield Jennie Yonker Subscription Rates: $52 per year tn Barry County $60 per year in adjoining counties $65 per year elsewhere POSTMASTEH. Send M&BM ChBMM6 Io PO Box 163 Hastes. Ml490560138 Second Class FcjLipq Pa-d at Mt 49Q58 Keep your friends mid relatives informed and up to date with all the local news from Barry County. Send them... The Hastings BANNER To subscribe, call us at: 269-945-9554 �_ Decnmtxit 10, '^o?o — p. • . The Hastings Banner-5 guest editorial j Protests, ultimately, are aimed at voters Sheriff’s recent actions are an abuse of power Tb the editor: Back in June, 1 wrote to The Hastings Banner with my concerns about Barry Count) Sheriff Dar Leaf's public display and comments, in uniform, at a protest in Grand Rapids regarding Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s executive orders. In a similar win. I shared my opinion at a county commissioners’ meeting in October, following Sheriff Leaf's comments, again in uniform.on the plot by unlawful militia (read: “domestic terrorists”) to kidnap and “try” Gov. Whitmer. I indicated that he should not have given any comment since he was not involved in the case nor is he a lawyer. With the attempt to bring legal action against the Michigan secretary of state the governor, and the state board of canvassers regarding a standard purge of voting equipment, it appears that Sheriff leaf continues to denigrate his title, in particular andI Barry County as a whole. The legal filing his application showed that Dar Leaf was acting “in his official capacity as Barry County Sheriff.” 1 have no problem with people who put their loot in their mouth - I’ve done it plenty of times myself. But to use one’s elected oil ice and uniform as a wink and nod to legitimacy, and spend taxpayers' dollars in these attempts at self-aggrandizement; this abuse of power should anger every citizen of Barry County. Sheriff Leaf has let his title and office go to his head. The voters put him in office, and they can remove (read: “recall”) him. Perhaps he needs to “get out of the way” and enjoy retirement. Christina Bush. Nashville Lame-duck military orders should be stalled To the editor: Our commander in chief, who has no military training or experience, has capriciously ordered large troop withdrawals, apparently so he can check off a line on his list of goals. The premature timing and lack of adequate coordination and planning of such troop withdrawal orders have been deemed inappropriate by numerous top-level military experts, including the joint chiefs of staff. Many members of congressional military* and national security oversight committees, with informed Jay opinion, confirm these orders arc not based on completion of previously established military* objectives and current situational facts and are, therefore, ill-advised and dangerous. Adverse consequences of such orders are numerous, and I will touch upon a few. These orders could compromise our national security­ in the short and long terms; hinder Middle East stability and security; put at increase hazard allied troop of other nations in these military* ventures, as we unilaterally and abruptly exit; and further substantiate the progressively evolving international perception that the U3. cannot be a trusted partner, consequently increasing the influence of China and Russia globally. Additionally. Mr. Trump has publicly suggested consideration of bombing Iran’s nuclear facilities. As my ",’n a,,d 1A*wcre ******finishing *** * * up decoral inp . ,oilse for Christmas Saturday night’ and he was about to sit down tn watch . ...tnch Christmas F dozens of arm^ >nd’v«luals stood outside my home shouting ,and ‘hunting into bullhorns 1 have always DuCn an energetic advocate for the right and importance of |>eaceful pro­ test as enshrined in the United .States Constitution, however there is a line crossed when gatherings are done with the primary purpose of intimidation ot public officials who are carrying out the oath of office they solemnly took as elected officials. The actions of these latest protestors are nn extension of the noise and clouded efforts to spread false information about the security and accuracy of our elections we ve all endured in the month since the polls closed Nov. 3. Through blatantly false press releases, purely political legislative hearings, bogus legal claims and so-called “affidavits” that fail to allege any clear or cogent evidence of wrongdoing, those unhappy with the results of this election have perpetuated an unprece­ dented, dangerous, egregious campaign to erode the public’s confidence in the results of one of the most secure, accessible and trans­ parent elections in our state's history . DENIES, continued She also said numbers reported by Fox News on election night showed a large amount of votes in her tow nship had gone to Rocky And now what seems like the “last straw” De La Fuente, the Natural Law candidate for possibly from the military's point of view. president. But she said those numbers changed Dump threatens to veto this year's National in the days afterward. Defense Authorization Act. which Congress Joseph and Yvette Peterman said they passed with large bipartisan approval. He is received three mail-in ballots they did not holding hostage a bill that covers military pay request before Election Day. raises and other military spending, unless In all the affidavits filed with the request, Congress agrees to repeal a liability shield for the voters complained about the markers used social media companies. at either the Hastings Baptist Church or He is referring to Section 230 of the 1996 Hastings Charter Township Hall polling sites. Communication Decency Act which he claims Four of the seven affidavits almost exclusive­ is “a serious threat to our national security and ly focused on the use of the markers election integrity.” Actually. Section 230 Complainants said they were concerned allows media to disallow social media that the markers they were given to fill out platforms from spreading blatantly false their ballots had bled through to the other side claims and obvious disinformation. of their ballots. Given these circumstances, our countryGerald and Gloria Pennington said they had must consider risk control. Perhaps our top used ballpoint pens in previous elections. military leaders (and several levels of Saurman said the markers used at the command below them) will remember that church were issued by the Stale of Michigan they solemnly swore to uphold the U.S. specifically for the ballots. Constitution and protect our nation from our “The recommendation from the Bureau [of enemies. If indeed they do so. hopefully they Elections), as well as the ballot printing place, will find a way for the commander in chief’s is to use a fine point Sharpie marker,” Palmer directions to be “slow tracked” or even “lost.” said. For the safety of our country. I hope our The markers are preferred because they are military leaders will “turn their backs’ to our darker than pencils and the ink dries more lame-duck president's dangerously destructive quickly than with ballpoint pens, she said. If demands. the ink isn't dry when the ballot is fed into the reader, the ink can get into the machine and Paul T. DeWitt Jr., cause the ballot to be rejected. Hastings Saurman said election workers noted, in their tests, when the markers tended to bleed through the ballots, but the machines still read those ballots without a problem. Palmer said the ballots are specifically designed to work, even if the marker ink bleeds. The circles voters fill in arc aligned work. separately on each side of the ballot, so, if the If cither C0V1D doesn’t exist or the vaccine ink bleeds through, it will not interfere with a doesn’t work, such a person will have only a circle on the other side. small loss (a little worry for nothing or a little And, if there is an issue with the ballot, a pain in the arm). Whereas, if COVID is real new ballot can be made, with the votes trans­ and the vaccine works, he who receives the ferred onto it. she said. In such cases, a vaccine stands to receive huge benefits - like Republican and a Democrat must be present living for another day. for the process to ensure the vote is not changed. Steve Williams, Saurman said the election was one of the Hastings smoothest Hastings has had, and she is “a lit­ tle baffled" by P<-'0PIe bringing up these issues over a month after the election. “I feel like if that was going 10 be a legitimate issue it would have been raised hours after the elec­ tion was over, or at least days,” she said. “Not Taking a centuries’ old view To the editor: A good argument for taking the COVID-19 vaccine can be made by follow ing the logic in the 17th century* of Blaine Pascal and known as “Pascal’s Wager.” (Look it up to see what his wager was about and also how important it is to the living.) I argue that a rational person should live as though COVID-19 actually exists and the vaccine will be effective, even though that person can’t see COVID. and doesn’t know if the vaccine will work, but believes it will Ask for the truth - no matter what it is To the editor: Just a month ago. people displayed signs that said "Character Matters and Keep ATv!1Ca.<?r ■ all these people now in the midst Where arc ■ f llh where hundreds, if of this electro . wor|<ers are telling of not thousand., 1^.^ and fraud happenthc dis<[re.>’a" Hi, ’ stations and centers where mg at their poll In c..1ITiers reporting votes were counted -nn <)f their trailers mbsing or trans­ thousands ot bal* Aheduled" locations’ porting ballots to unsc^^ Over the past ArizOna, Michigan, ings" broadcast11 . ,1))d Georgia where Virginia, Pentisyls.m , of (hc lraveslles “regular" people arc noibi|)p is they have witnessed ... > done. . _..ricans> not be outraged How can we. as A" d officials not to at the complicity of our dec Out of around 4,000 voters. Saurman said her office received one phone call from a citi­ zen who expressed concern about the mark­ follow up on this? How can we, as Americans, not be con­ cerned that this is happening in our presiden­ tial election? Whether Republican, Democrat, indepen­ dent, Libertarian or Green Party member, we all should be demanding a fair and account­ able election process. And truly, after seeing poll worker after poll worker tell of the same discrepancies and oddities - consistent from city to city - it is hard to turn a blind eye to what they are saying. Watch the hearings if you haven’t seen them. If you believe these “witnesses” to be sin­ cere; call your representatives, and tell them to get to the truth, no matter what it is. ers. .. • Leaf told The Hastings Banner that Junttila told him not to comment on the application, or the judge’s decis>0”* but he did discuss how it all came together- te Banner could not reach Junttila for conunen • Leaf said Juntu,a ^hed out to him, and told him she ba tea that Bany County residents were co p atning about problems with the elecii°n- • c_ asked if she could set up a way forcoun > ’dents to come forward with their cnn’Pla,,,' np ”1 told her th* ’ there’s voter fraud in the county*/' j. . a°w«’ I-cafsaid. Tlie sheriff s but n 1101 ^now what method she use; nttila advertised for residents to efJ*’ ^sheriff’s office last Saturday afte^ b lbcir statements. Theresa Purchase, The front griff’s office is Hastings currently cb** < OVID-19, and a notice on the page said the Call 269-9^5"®®54 for Hastings BaiiHor ads The demands made outside my home were unambiguous, loud and threatening. They targeted me in my role as Michigan’s chief election officer. But the threats of those gath­ ered weren t actually aimed at me — or any other elected officials in this state. They were aimed at the voters. Through threats of violence, intimidation and bullying, the armed people out .ide my home and their political allies seek to under­ mine and silence the will and voices of every voter in this state, no matter who they voted for. Their goal is to overturn and upend the results of an election that are clear and unequivocal, and that 55 million Michigan citizens participated in. But their efforts won’t carry the day because our democracy is strong. The will of the peo­ ple is clear. And I will stand up every day in my job for all voters, even the votes of the protesters who banded together outside my home. 1 began my career investigating violent neo-Nazi and white supremacist organizations throughout the country. A photo of Detroiter Viola Liuzzo, along with a replica of her Michigan license plate from the vehicle she was driving when she was murdered, hangs in my office. I am acutely aware of the risks borne throughout history of those working to tUmd guard over and proleci our demrxnrt.c process. Nothin? about the rncevurnt graphic threats made outside u y home. those that flood my social media account will deter me. my team or the mor. than ).(«ti election administrators across the state pf Michigan from doing our joos. ; And that job is simple: To defend and pi,), tect every Michigan voter, them chotce. «<l their votes. I will continue to guard every cit­ izen's vote because, no matter how one vothl or who they voted for. where they live, br what they look like, their vote is the lifeblood of our democracy. , Ensuring »l counts is central to our work as election officials. It’s in our oath of office, when we pledge to support the - .‘S. Constitution and that of the State ot Michigan, both of which unequivocally and pre-emi­ nently establish escry citizen’s fundamental right to vote. I have spent my career defending and pro­ tecting the right to vote of every eligible citi­ zen. 'That commitment has never wavered, and it will not waver now I will continue as Michigan’s secretary of state, proudly protect­ ing and defending every voter and every vo(e. Jocelyn Benson, Michigan Secretary' of State from page 1--------closure includes walk-in complaints, but Leaf said people can still come in the building when it's necessary*. Leaf was not at the sheriff’s office when the complainants gave their statements and signed their affidavits, but his name is listed on the top of the document: “Dar Leaf, in his official capacity as Barry County Sheriff.” Leaf told The Banner he did not know* if there was voter fraud in Barrs* County. “I’m the chief law enforcement officer ot the coun­ ty; our job is to ferret out all criminal activi­ ty.” he said. “I’m the one who’s going to be investigating the case here.” Technically, though, the sheriff’s office has not opened an investigation into any alleged voter fraud into Barry County, he added. “I have yet to sec anything from our clerks to show that there was fraud.” Some of the issues that residents raised were concerning, he said, pointing to the woman who said she saw the election num­ bers change on a Fox News w ebsite. Leaf also suggested that it might have been merely a typo by Fox News. But Palmer said the numbers reported on any website on the night of the election are not official. Leaf said his office is waiting for more statements to come in before making any decision on whether to open an investigation. While the sheriff’s office had received calls regarding the election before last Saturday. Leaf said they were mostly complaints about the Secretary of State soliciting absentee bal­ lots. Hastings City Police Chief Jeff Pratt said he was not aware of any election complaints that came through his department. Barry- County Prosecutor Julie Nakfoor Pratt said nothing has crossed her desk regard­ ing possible election fraud. The prosecutor also said she could not comment on the Leaf’s request for a restraining order and injunctive relief since she has not received anything from the sheriff’s office. Palmer said she has had several conversa­ tions with Leaf about these issues, and walked him through the election process, which she said he was unfamiliar with. “I think he’s try ing to find fraud, and I don’t know* what he’s trying to find in Barry County.” Palmer said. Every ballot that was requested in Barry County has been accounted for. Palmer sa[d. In the few* townships where the count was off by one or two ballots, the board of canvassers had the respective clerk come into the county offices and rerun every ballot. They found tllat those missing ballots had jammed in the rcaticr and not been read, and the count was fixed. “It’s like I told Dar. Barry County bal­ anced,” she said. Leaf said it is too soon to tell if he will pursue further legal action, although he sqid the judge’s order may be appealed. * * But it’s unclear what an appeal wot/id accomplish. Jonker noted Monday that Leaf's request was filed too late. “The applications themselves w ere filed‘at a late hour, six days after the memorandqm was issued, and the most recent having Keen filed on the same day the alleged destruction was to have been completed.” Jonker wrote. In deny ing Leaf's request, Jonker also tohk issue with other deficiencies in the request, The judge said the application tailed 'to actually cite a specific complaint, and includ­ ed only introductory* comments, a section on jurisdiction, another on the parties and a request for relief. Jonker went on to cite Black’s Law Dictionary's definition of “com­ plaint.” < “There is nothing styled as a complaint,” Jonkers wrote of Leaf’s request. • Jonkers added that the plaintiffs did not meet the requirement of notifying the defen­ dants, which is especially important when the plaintiffs are asking that the restraining otxjer be issued without hearing from the defen­ dants. “Plaintiffs state they made a ’reasonable effort’ to serve the applications via email V> counsel representing the defendants... Bu(a ‘reasonable effort’ docs not notice make. /\pd plaintiffs do not state why notice should not be required.” < In the meantime, this week, as required the state of Michigan, Palmer is conducting fen audit of the election She said she is looking for possible mistakes on ballot applications and checking the seal numbers on ballot bags. In addition, she is conducting a hand count of the votes for John James and Gary Peters in three townships selected by the state. * ”1 feel comfortable with the election ‘in Barry County.” Palmer said. ( Post-election audits continue Greg Chandler Staff Writer More than a month has passed since the Nov. 3 election, but the work of local elections officials is far from over. While the Michigan secretary of state has certified the results of the election, county clerks are now conducting post-election audits in accordance with state election law to make sure proper procedures were followed before, during and after the election. Barry County Clerk Pamela Palmer conducted an audit last Iluirsday for the Third Ward of the City of Hastings. On Wednexiay afternoon. Palmer conducted an audit for Castleton Township and, starling at 10 a.m. Friday, she will conduct an audit for Woodland Township. . e < Next week, a risk-limiting audit will take place. Palmer said. ; Under state election law. post-election audits must be conducted within 30 days of canvass completion unless a recount has ordered. The post-election audit will require the inspection of election documents and the procedures used by the loed city or township clerk prior to the election and on Election Day. . _ , .' The po'i election audit manual tor election administrators is available on the Secretary iff State's website at nuchigan.gov/diKuinents, sos Pot,.Election .Audit^ManuaL-l 18482 J. pdf. • Water’s Edge Financial LLL Jeffrey A. A1H (269) 94B-9969 W Apple St. Hastings. M’ ^Xatersedgefina.ubd.co.n �Dartvin II. Stanton Linda Marie Blackmore Aaron L. Sherk, age 82, of Hastings, passed away on December 6. 2020. Aaron was bom on December 22, 1937, the son of Manon and Mcrl Sherk. Aaron coned in the Navy as Chief Petty Officer. On October 26. 1957. he married Sarah I_akc. They loved living al the lake in ihr summer and their Florida house in the winters until health issues arose. Aaron enjoyed gardening, golf, fishing, mushrooming, and most of all his family and triends, and his lil' dog Sweetie Pie. Aaron was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, lari; sister, Marcia Beard; brother. Don Sherk; mother and father-in­ law. Alfred and Helen l ake: son-in-law. Doug Woodard, and brothers-in-law. Bill and Raymond I .ake. Aaron is survived by his wife of 63 years, Sarah; daughter. Brenda; grandsons and their family. Jacob (Ashley) Johnson, Ella, Audrianna. Olivia, and Brynleigh, and Mitch iBriiinna) Henning. Alexis, /Xnekin. Evgeny, and Brandon (fiance Hailey) Henning. Achilles and Grace, and son-in-law. Jeff Henning. Respecting Aaron’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are being held at this time. There will be a memorial luncheon at a later date. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. Vo leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbauhfuneralhome.net. Janet Fay Leckrone, age 66, of Hastings, passed away on December 7. 2020. Janet was bom on December 17. 1953, the daughter of Lyle and Frances Ringleka. Janet was a 1974 graduate of Thomapple Kellogg High School. She was a homemaker and a bookkeeper. On November 21, 1975, Janet married Raymond Leckrone. Janet loved to do crafts, not in the usual sense, but by collecting craft items. She also crocheted many beautiful afghans, doll dresses, and a lot of Christmas ornaments. Janet's worship of the Lord was consistent and constant, even though she did not fellowship due to health issues. Janet was baptized on the 12th of June 1994 by Rev. Bruce Stewart at the First Baptist Church of Middleville. Janet is preceded in death by her stepfather David and Frances (Warner) Gross; older sisterm Linda (Warner) Wilkins, and father, Lyle Ringleka, She is survived by her husband of 46 years. Raymond Leckrone; older brother. Daniel (Susan) Ringleka; younger brothers. Marty (Joyce) Ringleka. James Gross, and younger sister. Beck) (David) Scobee; nephews. Danny. Mike, Jason, and their children will miss “Aunt Janet". Kimberly A. Leckrone of Lansing. Tabbatha L. (Chris) Marble. Lansing. Damion M. Ixckrone of Hastings, Mark E. Leckrone of Hastings, who closed ranks and helped mom through this by acts of love over the last 10 years 'lite family is grateful to Faith Hospice, 2100 Ray brook; Grand Rapids, for the quick action and kindness during Janet’s short hospice care. /X memorial service may be held at Faith Hospice to be announced. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral 1 lome. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhonie.net. Linda Marie Blackmore passed away on November 24,2020. Linda was bom October 20. She was the eldest daughter of L°uis C* and Anna E. Ret of Battle Creek. She was preceded in death by her husband of 42 years. William “Bill” Blackmore, her parents, brother. Raymond Rct and sonMichael Stamp. Survivors include sister. Jeannette Grenier of Battle Creek; son. Tim Stamp (Stephanie) of Noblesville IN and daughter, Lori Jewell (Lonnie) of Plainwell. Linda had five grandchildrenKristen Hess, Laura McNeight, Aaryn and Shanyn Jewell. Bun Stamp and two great grandchildren- Nolan and Adeline Stamp. She was baptized at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Battle Creek, graduated from St. Phillip High School and Borgess School of Nursing. Linda was a lifelong learner and voracious reader. She retired from the V/X Medical Center of Battle Creek and was also employed at Leila Hospital. Later in her career she attended Nazareth College and received her bachelor’s degree in nursing. Linda and husband Bill spent many years of pleasure at their Spring Valley Fann in Delton. She enjoyed her flowers, gardening and being outdoors Her pride and treasure was her family. Linda had a servant hurt in career, family and community. Sire served as a Trustee for Orangeville Township. Linda and Bill established the W. William and Linda Blackmore Memorial Scholarship Fund for college bound Delton Kellogg High School graduates. /X family graveside sen ice will be held at a later date al Prairieville Cemetery'. A celebration of life will also occur at a later date. The family would like to extend a special thanks to the caretakers and staff of the Springs and Fountains of Bronson Place along with Hospice of Southwest Michigan who provided extended care and comfort. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Michigan Parkinson’s Foundation (parkinsonsmi.org) or Hospice of Southwest Michigan (hospiceswmi.org) . Darwin Howard Stanton, age 55, of ^elton, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, Dec. 5,2020. Darwin was bom on November 30, 1965 ,n Kalamazoo to Nonmm and Arlene lanfon. As a child. Darwin was a true farm kid and was involved in troth FFA and 4H. Ic graduated from Hastings High School in 984 where he was on the wrestling team. ar^‘n was a faithful employee al BJ xdraulics for over 20 years working as a ydrostalic Technician. He and his family arc longtime members of Cedar Creek Bible Church. In his free time. Darwin had a laid-back personality and enjoyed hunting and camping with his family and dogs on the custom bus that he made. His true passion was collecting and repairing old antique clocks. Darwin was very proud of his children and lheir accomplishments, such as his son attending the University of Michigan and receiving many scholarships. Darwin will be missed by his loving wife, Doreen (Boulter) Stanton; children. Slater Stanton. Glorianna Stanton; parents, Norman and Arlene Stanton; siblings. Phyllis (Jim) Dipp. Gordon (Deb) Stanton. Bernard (Donah) Stanton, John (DeAnna) Stanton. Maxine (Tom) Henney; several nieces and nephews. Friends and relatives may meet with the family on Thursday, Dec. 10 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Cedar Creek Bible Church, where his funeral senice will be conducted on Friday, Dec. 11, 2020 at II a.m. Pastor Robert Norton and Pastor Ethan Holmes will officiate. Private family burial will take place at Banfield Cemetery. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral. com to leave a condolence message or share a memory with Darwin’s family. removed but with Christmas decorations, including a few trees with ornaments and solar lights. The soil in urns is frozen, so if one left summer decoralions, they appear to be in for (he winter because they are frozen in place. Some cemeteries require removal of all summer flowers by this lime of year. Lakeside does not expect this procedure until spring. A new structure is easily seen on the horizon as one travels east on M-50 through town. At the east end of Jordan Lake are three quite new houses hugging the lakeshore just al lhe north end of Meyers’ Drive, which follows lhe shoreline south. A new two-story structure appears to be a garage with storage space and a gambrel roof. It is highly visible from both east and west approaches. 152165 Position Opening The Barry County Equalization Department is now accepting applications for a part-time Equalization Data Entry Clerk. The Clerk will assist the department with Entering sales data entry and clerical duties Position requirements include at least a high school diploma one year of experience with data processing and some knowledoe of property descriptions and the property tax system, and must be an accurate typist with high typing proficiency. 25 945-9121. Area residents are invited <« 'hn’"sh lhe (possible) snow and snread holida) cheer during FoxVicw-s first annual Ugly Sweater • is Run and Runwav Show. u f wVtew is the new venue al nS. Golf Coursc jlB* The Saturday, Dec. 12 nin*’11! *'!’ *7 “ ’■'-|f;hined event, both in-person and virtual, will “ ^ted-stan the in ^’ *" begin shortly after n-eisiral'1’" al } 4 " ’ "■th ntnncrs showing their ><*> “ diey lake off down the jk" (<>rPal,:,r4ZZI- passing on Good Friday m . worked as a Nurses Aid at Pennock Hospital, and then for Hastings Manufacturing for zo years until her retirement in 1993. ' Phyllis loved to travel, making many tnps to Florida, Georgia, and North Dakota. She also loved feeding and photographing t e hummingbirds, working in her flower beds, and mowing her lawn. She also enjoyed sewing, crocheting, and knitting, making many beautiful quilts. Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, Carl Damon. Elizabeth; step­ parents, Dewey Roush. Neva Warner; husband. Gordon, and brother. Robert. Phyllis is survived by her children, Jeffrey (Mary) Burpee, Bonnie Bosserd. Gary (Peggy) Burpee. Gregory Burpee. Matthew Burpee; 10 grandchildren; 21 great­ grandchildren; brother. Richard; sister. Shirley. Connie, and step-sisters, Carol. Becky and Linda. .A private family service will be at Grace Community Church in Nashville on December 10. 2020 at 11 a.m. with Pastor Don Roscoe officiating. The service will be live streamed and can be watched from at www.faccbook.com/GinbachFuneralHome. You do NOT need a Facebook Account to view' lhe service. Interment will follow’ at Barryville Cemetery. Nashville. Per Phyllis’ wishes. memorial contributions may be made to Grace Community Church Building Fund 8950 M-79 Highway, Nashville. MI 49073. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... 2635 N. M-43 Hwy., P.O. Box 8. Hastings. Telephone 269­ Ugly Sweater 5K, drivethrough show planned in Nashville December 7,20201934. the Phyllis was born on May . h daughter of Carl Damon .ind (Stutz) Warner. Phyllis was a I >■ -f of Hastings High School. She was mam Gordon Lee Burpee for 42 years urU h s Worship Together HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH ”Wc Exist To Be An Expression Of Who Jesus Is To The World Around Us". Elaine (rarlock This is the week for much activity at Fellowship Hall where the Lakewood Community Council is having its annual preparations for deliver Saturday of boxes of f >od items, socks, mittens, caps and children’s gilts. Usually, the Lakewood High school National Honor Society members visit Friday and wrap each box in red cellophane and attach ribbons and a card to each. The Sunfield SPYs group has its delivery system down to a science. They ascend cn masse and load their boxes with great precision. They have even delivered a few in Sebewa Tow nship if it is on lheir route east. Lakeside Cemetery has a new appearance with most of the summer artificial flowers Phyllis May Burpee age »o. Michigan, went to be with Ute '-<>r Email has ifme gntail.com. Website: www. hastingsfrccmethodist.com. Pastor Brian Teed. Assistant Pastor Emma Miller, Worship Martha Director, Stoctzel. Sunday Morning Worship: 9am and 10:30 a.m. Due to lhe current health crisis, our nursery is remains closed. Weekly activity bags forchilrcn are available in the 9 a.m. service and Kid’s Church is available in our 10:30 service. Our worship center is set up for social distancing. Aftermath Student Ministries; Sunday 6 p.m. ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. 269-945­ 4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip. Mass 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Mass 8 and 11 a.m. Sunday. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn. Hastings, Matt Moser. Lead Pastor. Sunday Senices: 9:15 a m. Sunday School for ail ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m, Wednesday, Family Night 6:30-8 p.m.. Kids 4 Truth (Children Kindcrgarten-5th Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer, (’all Church Office 948-8004 for information. 301 E Suite Rd.. P.O. Box 273. Hastings, Ml 49058. Pastor WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel­ chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a .nt Youth activities: call for information. CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Worship Jefferson Street. ]() a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adam-,, contact 616-690-8609. 7/• • r Scott Price. Phone: 269-948­ 0900. Website: www.lifegalecc. com. Sunday Worship 10 a.nt Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Ixicey Road. Dowling, Ml 49050. Pastor, Steve Olmstead. (269) church phone. Sen ice: 10 a.m. 758-3021 Sunday WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway. Hastings, Ml 49058. Phone 945 2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9: 45 am. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O Box 765, (corner of Milo Rd & S. M­ 43). Delton. Ml 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool, (517) 2049.VX) Sunday Worship Service 10: 30 to Ili.lO.ini. Nursery and Children’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study und prayer time 6:30 to ‘ 30 pm . 1s information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Banner, lhe churches --------- -—---and these local businesses: hours a week. The base pay rate is $13.95. Please send a cover letter, and resume to: Tim Vandermark, Director Barry County Equalization, 220 West State Street Hastings, Ml 49058 An application and job descnption is available at m o' conlacling Tim Vandermark. 5,7-543-4,0,. c“'b Appeal. y Winners will k. . t at ■' P m’ 0,1 1^*ive.lhR)ugh San|;i ciivu< b planned '•vand.!yraark.@.barry.comty-or9 Online lor Monday, Dee. 28, 2020 by 5 p.m. N'asK’^ “ North M'11" St'M'f>6, l.^,-deIai1st.anbs.1ou,1dal^,OXVK-W- 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 s Flexfob 1699 W. M43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 HhaSTINGS 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 �fl look back at the stories and columns on local history Inin the Hastlnns Hastings Rannnr Banner •. M • turning - r. BflGK THE PAGES • £ Barry County in the Spanish-American War, Part 7 The following is the last in a sevempart scries compiled by the lute Joyce Weinbrccht and published in the Banner from mid-Aiigust to early October 1998. J I Barn-.County men served in five different units of the Michigan Volunteers National Guard, as well as various units of the regular Army, including cavalry, the Navy and Marines. Of the 6,700 men combined who sen cd in the 31st. 32nd. 33rd. 34th and 35th Michigan units. 250 died. Most of lhe deaths were the result of disease. Albert Woodmansee of Baltimore Township, a member of Co. K. 35th Michigan Volunteer Infantry, was sent from the South to Camp Mead, Pa. There, he became very ill with typhoid fever and was sent to St. Joseph Hospital. Mistaken identity Woodmansee was reported as dead, and friends and family here were notified to meet the body. However. Albert wasn't dead and hadn’t any idea of letting loose of the thread of lite, so he concluded to bring his body home with him just as he wished to. He obtained a 30-day furlough, just to prove be wasn’t a dead man. if nothing else. A Hastings Banner article reported. “Albert Woodmansee got off the Michigan Central passenger train with Albert Woodmansee’s body intact - that is all but about 60 pounds of it he had lost by reason of sickness. Though but a shadow of his formes self, he was successful in escorting his body wherever he wished and was greeted on all sides by friends who had given him up for dead. They wished him a long life in the land of lhe living. “A mistake was made in names, and a soldier by the name of Woodman, who died at the hospital, was reported as Woodmansee.” [Woodmansee married Emily Rcick in 1902. and the couple raised six children in Baltimore Township. Albert’s masonry work can still be seen in the Dowling area, according to the 1985 Barn County history book. He also had a steam thresher rig and a sawmill and was known for playing drums at Grange dances and the Clear Lake dance hull.) 'l he 35th Regiment finally was discharged March 31. 1899. Most men relumed to the counties from which they had enlisted, but several re-enlisted to go to the Philippines to help finish the fight going on over there. Persistent question One issue of the times was the question of why some of the Michigan volunteer regiments never went overseas. Some people speculated politics was to blame. Col. William T. McGurrin had taken his regiment to Tampa around May 19 and then was sent back to l emandia. Fla.. where they stayed. Some felt it w as because Col. McGurrin was a Democrat, and Col. Cornelius Gardener was a “rabid” silver man. However, Col. E.M. Irish, in charge of the 35th. was a Republican, but his regiment didn’t get out of the country, either. The troops were sent back to lhe Island Hike Camp near Brighton. Colonial power Americans had not aspired to become a colonial power, but lhe Spanish-American War changed this status, if not the idealism. The U.S. assumed the role when lhe Treaty of Paris was signed in December 1898. This treaty gave the sovereignty of Cuba to the United States, along with Puerto Rico and other West Indies islands, and the city bay and harbor of Manila. lhe Hawaiian Islands also were annexed to ’.he United States in 1898. Hawaii became the 50th stale in the Union in March 1959. Cuba fell under communist-dominated regime led by Fidel Castro, and this struggle goes on. 'I he Philippines were claimed during World War II by the Japanese and retaken in 1944 in a grim campaign led by Gen. Douglas MacArthur. Puerto Rico was granted commonwealth status in 1952. American Red Cross grows I j S. soldiers react to news of surrender irt Santiago. Cuba, in the summer ot 1898. The American Naiw"!1 Assocmtion of rhe Red Cross was fm 'W' One of its first major disaswf-rc’,u( functions was in Michigan in 18«l. when a oresl fire raced across the Thumb area, the Red Cross expended $80,000 to assist victims of the fire, along with other types of aid. The Spanish-Amencan War furnished the first wartime opportunity for the newly organized American Red Cross. I his eflort pointed out some necessary changes for the organization to become more effective. Clara Barton, who is credited with organizing the Red Cross, was not a nurse, but had spent many hours on the battlefields during the Civil War. tending and feeding the wounded, sending hotne news of the boys to lheir families. To Miss Barton, one didn't need to be a soldier of one army or the other, and again, in the Spanish-American War, she was criticized for aiding the sick and wounded, regardless of their political position. Some of lhe leadens in the wars didn’t want Miss Barton or any other female on the battlefields, so it was often a difficult job getting supplies, food aad blankets to the wounded or sick men, hut. she persevered. These differences were somewhat resolved. and during World War I. the number of Red Cross chapters increased from 250 to 3,864. VFW established An outcome of lhe Spanish-American War was lhe development of the Veterans of Foreign Services. The VFW had its beginning in 1899, when Spanish-American War veterans began to return home and banded together for several reasons, including common experiences, similar needs, and to promote comradeship and patriotism. The Veterans of Foreign Services joined w ith the Army of lhe Philippines in 1913 and became the Veterans of Foreign Wars Membership included veterans of the SpanishAmerican War. the Philippine campaign. Boxer Rebellion, the campaign on the Mexican border, the first and second Nicaraguan expeditions, World War I, World War II, Korean War and now (1998) includes Vietnam. Libyan operation, lhe Persian Gulf. Panama. Operation Just Cause and Somalia. Hastings; Foster Root. Middleville; Elmer G. Following the Spanish-American War. Smith. Baltimore Township; Frank W. units of veterans were formed to forward their Wilkinson. 'Die medals were delivered causes and help them get what they needed to between Sept. 27 and Dec. 9. 1902. under resume civilian life. Hastings formed a unit Michigan Public Act 223. of 1901. called Gen. Shafter Camp 43. [An incomplete list from the Archives ot Hie units were organized much as the Michigan includes additional medal recipients: companies had been. Officers in lhe Hastings Charles Corson. Middleville; Guy Church. camp were Cmdr. Cornelius Manni; Sr. Vice Middleville; John Grodavent. Cressey: and Cmdr. James R. Mason; Jr. Vice Cmdr. Eli Frank Herrington. Dowling.[ Davis; Officer of lhe Day Edward Downs; Monument recommended Officer of the Guard Hugh Riley; Trustees An article in the Feb. 4. 1914, Hastings Elmo Soules, Chester Englehart and Glenn Banna announced. “Proposes monument for Taggart; Adjutant Henry S. Sheldon; Spanish War veterans Quartermaster Albert H. Carveth; and “A citizen has suggested that a | fund J ought Chaplain Charles Wibert. This camp was to be started to erect in the city park a disbanded in 1916. monument in honor of those from Barry In all, 69 units were organized in lhe state, County w ho enlisted in the Spanish-American with some areas having more than one unit. War, just as is being done in other counties For instance, Detroit had six units. Grand and cities. Almost 65 or 70 men from this Rapids had three, and Lansing, two. county served in the Army and Navy, and Bailie Creek had one unit. No. 30 Gen. when they enlisted, lheir purposes were just Frederick D. Funston camp. Barry County as patriotic as were those of the men who men on lhe No. 30 roster - which was named enlisted in lhe Civil War. Circumstances alone for lhe fiery general who captured Aguinaldo prevented them from engaging in a great war. in lhe Philippines - included Albert Canelh, In lhe years to come, lhe Spanish War will be Glenn E. Taggart, John Reynolds, Milton as much a thing of lhe past, as is (he Mexican Murphy. Claude A. Bush. Henry' Gosch, War for which Barry County also furnished a James R. Mason, Jesse J. Holes. Henry number of soldiers, whose names have been Spencer. Edward Downs. Henry' Wickham, all but forgotten. A monument in memory of Hugh Riley. Eli Davis. George Martin. Emery' those Spanish War veterans would be very appropriate.” Apsey, Charles Wibert and Charles Green. [Weinbrccht concluded the series with a .A Camp Fusion roster dated April 25.1948, showed Barry County veterans Edward note that “To date, we have located about 127 Downs. George Gallclley, James R. Mason Spanish-American War veterans from Barry and Henry S. Sheldon of Co. K were still County.” An updated list w ill be published in active members. At that time. 80 Spanish- next week’s Banner.] American veterans were in lhe camp, with 19 Sources for this series include research by men from Co. D, 32nd Michigan Volunteers, alojig with several veterans from the regular the late Harland and Nyla Nye: fuming Point for America, lr\ing Wersteine: VFW, army and the navy. Gen. Funston Camp 30 was disbanded May September 1998; Hastings Banner; Nashville News; New Standard Encyclopedia 1958; 22,* 1968. The W'orld Book. 1950; Angels of the Medals Applications for Spanish-American War Battlefield, lhe Life of Clara Barton. Harper medals from Barry County included Harry J. and Brothers, New York, 1956; Michigan Beech, Hastings; Lodie Fenton. Middleville; Public Acts 1901, 223 (spanamwar.com. fami Is earch .org. Henry' B. Gammon, Hastings; Frank Giddings. harry.migen web .org. Hastings; George Joslin. Middleville; David findagrave.com, Michiganfannlvhistory.org. N. Lake. Hastings; William D. Nevins. Archives of Michigan/. j Marriage TJcenses Call any time to place your Hastings Banner classified ad 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870-7085 Alyssa Sue PW"; TX and Ch“ Russell Britton, Cibo*0, lz. Debora Jean Drake. Hastings and Dawnette MRobin°M B^Dc"°n andTerry Glcn Leafd^Filter’ r»o:tcT-oi NO MORE GUTTER CLEANING, OR YOUR MONEY BACK GUARANTEED! CALL US TODAY FOR <3 A FREE ESTIMATE cS>"^^niaan<,Aus,in I i i | Charles Beardsle}.**1 erivTKrisima k Flannel Felten Flints V Solids . handmade is t, Special Tor Our Customer S? QUESTIONS ASK US - ---------------- ■ cont 24 1898 portrays Camp Wikoff, Long Island, The cover of ■ Collier s Weekly Sept. (he Spanish. American War Although N.Y. through which many and others suffered lingenng emotional the war was brief, many me and physical impairment ‘ St. Hastings . 945-9673 I Promo Number. 285 « I MICHAEL KINNEY PLUMBING Licensed Master Humber Licensed Journeyman Plumber New construction, remodel. repair, drain cleaning. * BR XD1 ORD W Hl IE WATER HI' A! I.Rn Same Dav Installation Office (269) 948-2248 Mobile (269) 838-5112 �8 Docemter 10,2020 8— — Thursday. Thursday. Docem&er 10, 2020 “ The Hastings Banner County commissioners discuss sheriff's federal .. •................................ „ c°urt action; transparency "■,,u' ...... Editnr A federal court request by Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf, acting in his official capaci­ ty to challenge stale officials with regard to the Nov. 3 election, raised questions at the conclusion of Tuesday’s Barry County Board °t Commissioners committee of the whole meeting. Commissioner Dave Jackson. R-Delton, said they had been getting a lol of questions about the matter “that Sheriff Leaf participat­ ed in, or was a party to.” “Is he available to answer any questions about that, or can he give us any background or insight? Is that within the bounds of what we can discuss in our meeting?” Jackson asked Chain' Oman Heather Wing. R-Bclleviie, during lhe session, which took place via Zoom. The sheriff, who was connected to the vir­ tual meeting, agreed to provide some back­ ground. "I had a phone call from an attorney over on the east side of the state and she had sever­ al complaints about voter fraud here in Barry' County.” Leaf said. “She called me up and asked if she could come on in and do some affidavits, signed, notarized here at the sher­ iff?s office. I told her, if we do that, we want to know if there was any voter fraud here in Barry County. I’m still waiting to hear her final analysis. She’s a former prosecutor out of Wayne County. "Anyways, then we found out that there was a letter that went out to the clerks throughout the state to eliminate certain things out of lhe computer which could have been evidence for us. So the request was - it wasn’t so much a lawsuit asking for anything - Wl' WU*W --- -- "We had nine people come in last Saturday to till out these affidavits,” Leaf added. "And wc haven't gone through all nine of ‘em yet. So bear with me on it .” Jackson asked, “Did I see, sheriff, that this was dismissed yesterday?” "My request was declined is what it basi­ cally was,” laraf replied. Other commissioners offered no questions or comments on this subject. Commissioners Dan Parker and Vivian Conner were excused from the meeting. Al lhe conclusion of the meeting, Chainsoman Heather Wing said she would like to discuss county transparency at the board meeting next Tuesday. “With COVID and everything else that’s going on, I would really like to know more about what all of out departments are doing, the people they are Serving in-person or via the internet.... I think we need to know more about what’s going on in other departments. And I would really like to have that discus­ sion before we close out the year.” "1 don’t want to do it outside the bounds of our meetings,” Wing added. “So this is a very' difficult discussion to have on a Zoom meet­ ing. But. that being said, I would really like to know how we are servicing our community, how many people are coming in. and how many are resorting to online services. I think it’s important for our community to know that we are still working and that they still can still reach out to us. "But I would really like to know, from our elected (officials) particularly, how busy their offices are, and what their workload is, are they answering more email than they arc reg­ SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Benefit verification letters available online Vonda Van Til Public Affairs Specialist Wc arc excited to announce the release of a new, standardized benefit verification letter. People receiving Social Security or Supplemental Security Income benefits can obtain their letters by using lheir personal My Social Security account. The letter can be used as proof of income for loans, housing assistance, mortgage, and other verification purposes. Create your personal My Social Security account to access your new benefit verification letter online in a safe, quick and convenient way without needing to contact us. People not receiving benefits can use their accounts to get proof that they do not receive benefits, or proof that benefits are pending, in lhe same standardized letter. Individual representative payees also can use the new My Social Security Representative Payee Portal to access lhe new benefit verification letter online for themselves or their beneficiaries. You can access your benefit verification letters at ssa.gov/myaccount. If you don’t want to use your personal My Social Security account, you can call our National 800 Number. 800-772-1213. to speak with a representative or to use the interactive voice response system. You also may call your local office. Use our Social Security Office Locator to find your local office telephone number at ssa.gov/localor. Vanda Van Til is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You may write her do Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525, or emad vonda.vantil@ssa.gov. ‘ J Financial FOCUS Provided by the Parry County offices of Edward Jones Brandon Wilkins Member SIPC J,rv 307 E. Green St, Ste. 1 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-2003 Jeff Domenico, AAMS0 450 Meadow Run Dr. Suite 100 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-8265 Consider these year-end financial moves We’re nearing the end you could incur capital of 2020 - and for many of gains taxes. To offset these us. it will be a relief to turn gains, you could sell other the calendar page on this investments that have lost challenging year. However, value, assuming these we’ve still got a few weeks investments are no longer left, which means you have essential to your financial time to make some year-end strategy. Your lax advisor financial moves that may can evaluate this type of move, along with others, to work in your favor. Here are a few suggestions: determine those that may be • Add to your IRA. For appropriate for your situation. • Review your investment the 2020 tax year, you can put in up to $6,000 to your mix. As you consider your traditional or Roth IRA. or portfolio, think about the S7.0CXJ if you’re 50 or older. If events of these past 12 months you haven’t reached this limit, and how you responded to consider adding some money. them. When COVID-19 hit You actually have until April early in the year, and the 15, 2021, to contribute to financial markets plunged, did your IRA for 2020, but the you find yourself worrying sooner you put the money in, constantly about the losses the quicker it can go to work you were taking, even though for you. Plus, if you have to they were just on "paper” pay taxes in April, you’H be at that point? Did you even Jess likely to contribute to sell investments to "cut your losses” without waiting for a your IRA then. • Make an extra 401(k) market recovery? If so, you payment. If it’s allowed might want to consult with by your employer, pul in a a financial professional to determine if your investment little extra to your 401 (k) or similar retirement plan. And mix is still appropriate for yuur goals and risk tolerance, if your salary goes up next or if you need to make some year, increase your regular changes. contributions. • Evaluate your need for • Si c your tax advisor. retirement plan withdrawals. h’s possible that you could Jf you arc 72 or older, you improve your lax situation must start taking withdrawals b) making some inveslment- - technically called required felated moves. For example, minimum distributions, or d you sold some investments RMDs -1rom your traditional value Jias increased, IRA and your 401(k) or similar retirement plan. Typically, you must take these RMDs by December 31 every year. However, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Stimulus (CARES) Act suspended, or waived, all RMDs due in 2020. If you’re in this age group, but you don’t need the money, you can let your retirement accounts continue growing on a tax-deferred basis. • Think about the future. Are you saving enough for your children’s college education? Are you still on track toward lhe retirement lifestyk you’ve envisioned? Or have your retirement plans changed as a result of the pandemic? All of these issues can affect >our investment strategies, .so you’ll want to think carefully about what decisions you may need to make. Looking back - and ahead can help you make the moves to end 2020 on a positive note and start 2021 on the right foot. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Einunciul Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC l*,P "»« "*>’ ‘10 COn,,ng in the office? ’ “Since we’re nol ablc «> do, bl,sine« as nonmil, 1 think we should I* niak,n? « *Port 1° lhe community Such a report would help commissioners, who have to account f^ (hc C°St °f UO^>l“^pOn whafs going on Moving forward wc may ,,ccd ,hose «atistics to justify p^-ons.’’ Wing said. Nexl week, the commissioners w,H consid­ er action to require regular monthly statistical reports from each elected official about the duties of their office q«arter,y stalistical reports about the duties of their department, and annual reports from appointed board or committee chairmen. , , . TIn o*lw business discuss*** *>nng Tuesdays vinual cofflimttee thcw whole meeting, County Adn»nistralor Michael Brown discussed resolutions for year-end appropriations and the handling of the general fund surplus, which commissioners recom­ mended for approval. r . . Brown also raised the question of maintain­ ing the jail facility pointing out that lhe coun­ ty' may need to make some investment in that facility until a permanent solution can be found. During the public comment portion of the meeting, that subject also was raised by Aaron Gross of Hastings; "In regards to the end-ofycar fund transfers to various different funds, I call on lhe commission to not pass those resolutions because we did not get the millage through that you wanted. “So what we need to do is to develop a plan to pay for the jail going forward from here and one way I see to do that is to use budget surpluses to create a new jail fund. “But I call upon the commission to not pass those resolutions and to also develop a plan to pay for the jail from normal operating expens­ es.” In other business, after hearing a request from Liz Lenz, coordinator of the Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force, the board recommended submitting a 2021 grant application for $28,900 to the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Medical Marihuana Regulation. The grant would be used for the Barr}- County Substance Abuse Task Force to conduct education, communication and out­ reach pertaining to the Michigan Medical M'j'"^qna A« in the county. ' ""led thatkUUlHJ. this mnn',v j, fnr (h(. con. _____ ... Ixmz noted that this money i*» for dlC corl tinualion and renewal of the program con­ ducted last year with funds made available to countie» from the stale licensing and regulato­ ry affairs department. The Barry-Eaton District Health Department participated in this program last year; however, due to workload and staffing constraints this year as a result of lhe COVID19 pandemic, lhe county task force is propos­ ing to use lhe funds in 2021. “BEDHD looks forward to growing and strengthening our collaborative partnership. ...working together to increase awareness in Barry County as it relates to marijuana and cannabis safety and prevention initiatives.” Colette Scrimger, health officer for lhe coun­ ty’s health department, wrote to Lenz. “It is particularly important to BEDHD to continue to provide quality education on mar­ ijuana and cannabis," Scrimger wrote. “As information and misinformation becomes more accessible and widespread, it is import­ ant for the (substance abuse task force) and BEDHD to work together to reach families, pregnant and breastfeeding women, youth, and other at-risk individuals with accurate information and prevention messages.” In 2019 and this year, the health department applied for and received these funds and worked with the task force to develop and implement activities. Now, because of the need for the health department to respond to the COVID-19 cri­ sis. Lenz said the task force would lake the lead in 2021, while the health department would still work with them as partners in community initiatives. Initiatives include media campaigns; safe storage project expansion; a youth summit; an educational event for health and human ser­ vice professionals, families and youth-serving agencies; a survey of marijuana use in the county as part of the yearly sample of a local Behavioral Risk Factor Survey, which will include a medical and recreational use of mar­ ijuana question; and partnership building with marijuana businesses. Lenz noted that, among initiatives thus far, they did have some success with distribution of lock boxes and, in a new aspect of the pro­ gram. working to build relationships within the community - especially as it pertains to where marijuana is safer to consume and where it’s riskier. In other recommendations: .agreed wjd to approve of the Office Offia •»./ r’nrrections gram grant contract fo for of Conu”un ,y authorize thechairperthe next Tl. > • nlraC(, recommended by son to sign it. Lhe con > 6' G m nissionent agreed to approve the $24,669 request from Susanne Huebner, gram ^4X>ozrcq county S remontimer.taadministrator <> Remonumentation pnnntPXmem whi^> S4<5'796' A" grant .g . of । g 718 40 ~ or 40,'percent initial payment nru J of lhe grant amount - will be made to the county upon submission of the grant year completion report. Progress payments of up to 85 percent of the total budget may be pan! upon of the county's request indicating grant funds received, project expenditures tncurred and objectives completed to date, as well as documentation for all expenses. Payment of the final 15 percent would be made after com­ pletion of the project and the state grant administrator has received and approved the county’s completion report and supporting documentation. , • The board agreed to approve Undersheriff Jason Sixberry’s request for payment of $2315.64 in compensatory time for the coun­ ty’s six court screeners who’ve continued to work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Brown said these county employees do not fall under the government’s definition of first responders and "they have had to work while we were closed.” They also do not qualify for hazard pay. Brown noted. During public comment at the beginning of the meeting. Jack Ward, the county zoning code enforcement officer, encouraged lhe board to act on this issue. "1 started my career with Barry County as a court screener ... These people are there every day on the front line.There’s a real controversy on how they’re supposed to get paid for that." Ward encouraged the board to “step up and do something for them.... They always seem like the red-headed stepchildren that nobody wants to claim but everyone wants to tell them what to do. I just think they need to get that pay to them for being through this pan­ demic there on that front line.” The commissioners are scheduled to act on these items, among others, at their next meet­ ing, which will take place via Zoom at 9 a.hi. Tuesday. Dec. 15. Planning commhsioo to seek input on chickens; Sophie Bates Swfj Writer The Hastings-.'Planning Commission approved a motion to seek public input on keeping chickens withinlhe city’s residential districts at its virtual meeting Monday evening. The commission has directed staff to seek input via a survey, which will be sent to city residents. At this time, it isunknown when the survey will be sent out, but Community Development Director Dan King Tuesday said lhe survey would be very brief — likely two questions — and would be placed on the city’s website and linked to in residents’ water bills. "I’m here to represent my constituents, but 1 don’t even know how they feel on lhe issue," Mayor David Tossava said, noting the city has used Survey Monkey, an online survey service, in the past to seek community input. Planning commission members were pleased with the decision and lauded the importance of seeking public input, including Jacquie McLean, who urged them to use everycommunication channel available to reach residents. “I think it should be done and publicized everywhere ... all of the avenues that we have to communicate and engage our public, we should definitely take advantage of— especially in an instance like this,” McLean said. The decision came after the commission reviewed sample texts from several Michigan municipalities regarding the keeping of chickens in residential districts, presented by “I really think that it’s in our best interest. If planning consultant Rebecca Harvey. we’re going to have all this criteria for a If the survey indicates city residents want chicken, I feel like we should have similar an ordinance on the keeping of chickens, lhe criteria for other animals. Because I have a planning commission will put one together. At problem with other animals as well," McLean an upcoming meeting, lhe ordinance would be said. "So, 1 feel like if there’s going to be these read during a public hearing so the public guidelines and these stipulations and they^re would have an opportunity to comment on lhe spelled out for people. I feel like it should £e ordinance’s specific rules and regulations. spelled out in similar fashion for other Chairman Dave Hatfield requested domestic animals as well. And maybe doing commission members review the sample that, ... it would be somewhat more ordinances and be ready to move forward with enforceable when they don’t follow the rules legislation if the public so desires. of they don’t pick up their dog poop." “I would request that each of you work with The planning commission has nol decided lhe sample ordinances that you have in front whether an ordinance on the keeping of of you and share those with staff, regarding chickens would be followed by ordinances which components you like and which you do addressing the ownership of other animals.' nol like," Hatfield said. “We can use that to In other matters, the planning commission: fine-tune an ordinance that we can consider if, - Learned that lhe city’s master plan has in fact, we sec enough public interest to been reviewed and is currently undergoing support that.” mechanical revisions before it is submiltedjto McLean noted the sample ordinances have the master plan committee for review and quite a few rules for the keeping of chickens submission to lhe planning commission. 1 — ranging from the number of chickens - Voted to host a public hearing at next allowed, to feed storage and commercial month’s meeting on revising the definition of enterprises. She suggested that, if chickens are a commercial recreation facility and including subject to rules such as these, other domestic athletic and health clubs within lhe definition. animals should have similar regulations. - Moved to amend the rules on commercjal She specifically cited concents about kennels to be more conducive to the D-l and aggressive dogs and owners who do not D-2 industrial districts, which arc now properly take care or clean up after their permitted to house commercial kennels as a animals. In regulating the ownership of dogs special-use permit. J or other domestic animals, the city would have grounds to enforce those rules, if broken. Barry County brothers, charged in terrorism plot, are released on bond lhylor0wcnS TVo Barry County ">«• who.were jailed on chargesZ an alleE«i domesuc •enonsm ;he Ant™> Conntv v^uChael $ Court reduced bond for WillDiSr of Plainwell ™5,‘SS»«;10PS”km and be confined to th^ ^hers are two of sever ,38’year'",d e felony charges “''era! men who f>*||eged domestic iem™1"8 lron’ ^ luile*! slonning the CaoitoM PlOt ”’al ’^kidnapping elected ofr? • i budding rjretchen Whitmer. ‘’^■‘“^..indudingGt"' ' Null brothers yj-’^Eators said jn operation to stirv^i . vacati°n home near El T,fT'Whimu-r; ;dI3. ^•WsonSept. I’JOct. 7 probe that ""olv«l multiple e tmd federal law TheT?1 ttEcncifS-, one charge each of . Nu|ls are fac"’Lt f"' ’errorist acts, Ltd '^g "la'crial!;',Cc3r|n, during the l^osscssing u ny. lhe terrorism commission of a f£Ljr sentence of 20 '■'I’arges cany a ,,,4^___________ years in prison and a $20,000 fine. defendants Bellar. Musico and Shawn Fix. Conviction on a felony firearm charge 38. of Belleville, have made bond and were would add two years, to be served released from custody. AU other defendants consecutively to a sentence. remain in custody. According to a Detroit Free Press account Extradition efforts continue for one of the hearing, the brothers’ lawyers argued defendant, 52-year-old Brian Higgins, of that the charges against them should be Wisconsin Dells, Wis He is being extradited dismissed. to Michigan from Columbia County in Michael Null’s lawyer, Tom Siver of Wisconsin. Grand Rapids, said the judge should drop An extradition hearing is scheduled Dec. lhe case, saying lhe brothers had not crossed 15 in Wisconsin. Once Higgins returns to from Wexford County into Antrim County, Michigan, he will be arraigned in Antrim where lhe crime was alleged to have taken County 86th District Court on a 20-year place. felony charge of material support to an acl But Michigan Assistant Attorney General of terrorism, according to lhe attorney Sunita Doddamani argued that audio general’s office. recordings, and information from an Thus far, eight men face 1 ............... ;.......... — charges -"««gcs in m undercover officer and criminal informant, Michigan in connection with the allege show the brothers were in Antrim County domestic terrorism plot. Federal chanTes ..................................... and surveilled Whitmer’s vacation home. also are expected, authorities said. A probable cause conference in Jackson More than 2(X) state and federal L County 12th District Court for another enforcement officials were involved in defendant. Peter Musico, 42, of Munilh, operation in early October, authorities si d A series ot search warrants and ai . was scheduled for last Friday afternoon. While other Jackson County detendanis - warrants were executed in more tlr^5*1 a Joseph Morrison, 26, of Munith, and Paul dozen sites around the state inei Bellar, 21. of Milford - have probable cause Belleville, Cadillac, Canton,’ Ch i '“g conferences scheduled for 2:30 p in. IX\. Clarkston, Grand Rapids. Luther xY . e» Orion Township. Ovid, Porta$> • 18 Along with the release ot the Nulls, Township and Waterford. �„ Th.ir<-d iv December 10 2020 Tho Hastings Banner — Thurso iy. p*,..9 BISD students learning remotely through December ^Newborn babies . AcliluJ^ * Health n ' 0:11111 Anders. Kun at Spectrum ' Haile» \ C,,n‘K'^. on October -'0. 2020 to H.uiin,, nn ^n^Xr ;,h‘l Cla)ton J. Anders of •p * I’-Uiah. born al Spectrum Health in i r-K* °u November 6, 2020 to Tori L.ar.'cn ant,C»‘Ugl ar<en of Delton. ^^ar’e Scholten, borr at Spectrum cn. bom :• ea th Pennock on November 10, 2020 to ^ndra Scholten and Kxlc Scholten of . ; Hastings. k> 1. ’•* H . Hiram Abrnbarn Zayas, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on November 11. 2020 to . Alexandra Roog Zayas and Hiram Anthony Zayas of Vermontvdie. ^.Amuya Rac l.atrelllc. bom at Spectrum ’..Health Pennock on November II. 2020 to Randii Sutherland and Jason Latreille of . Middleville. Whitley Bernice Richter, bom at Spectrum .Health Pennock on November 13, 2020 to Nikole Richter and Randy Richter of . Middlex illc. . . Kinsley Matthews, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on November 13. 2020 to Candace O’Neon and i nn Matthews ot Hastings. Marivn Leann Root, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on November 14. 2020 to Sara Kay Root and Kaleb Dean Root of Clarksville. Justin Daniel Herschberger. born at Spectrum Health Pennock on November 14. to Linda F-. I lerschberger and Daniel V. Herschberger of Dowling Hudson Lee Excrly, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on November 17. 2020 to Tamara Everly and Randall Everly of luike Odessa. frnnchecK L« ,,3>Writer L1Jh school Di tr . Barry Intermed^cly for th,. will be learning rt 01 lbe calendar year. tr;nK’1t,e,n ba-An w । Assistant -Su^L,rJ C(b»caii()n . eek'‘ updated the BISD l^.ymomiI1);,Ont,,'n"g « remote meeting complc(ci ■■Ourxtudeniv^dboatdn,^..... December. they also dre . District office1* >JC learning ,v,’,g to offer as much ^...s, " ^'We for curly education electronic <t„. families in need-'pick for remote learning 11 said. Some hunt •- a|rcail,. ( ,ntH|c|। , ' teks fm a Superintendent Rich and device diXmr^-' SChWk N’ezaeh Zhnne RuthrufT, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on November 18, 2020 to Keisha Marie Tamont and Steven Ray Ruthruff of Hastings. <5TATE Of MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY notice to creditors neiedent's Ealato RLE NO.20-2fl634.DE Estate of Paul Dcccas€d- Date of birth. ^Doctor Universe • • Making colorful glass Dr. Universe: How do people slain glass to make it all lhe colors it can be'J Emily, IO, Edmonds, Wash. ■ • '•* ’• •v '• ’• •’ ' 1 ’ 1 '- ■' '* ' " compound called sodium nitrate could help clear up the glass. Regul said glass is a pretty unusual material .It's not a solid ora liquid. Scientists call it an amorphous solid, which means a Dear Emily. state somewhere in the middle of those two states of matter. It’s also a very fragile mateEver since human* discovered the} could use sand to make glass’, they've been Tial. experimenting with it. They even learned Regul must be very careful when he how to control the colors. works on stained glass projects. Before he My friend Dustin Regul is a stained- gets started, he makes a plan and draws his glass artist and painter who teaches fine arts design on paper. at Washington State University. He told me Next, he cuts up the paper drawing into more about where glass gets its color. pieces. It’s a guide that will help him as he Metals actual!} help change the color of cuts pieces of glass into shapes with a spe­ the glass, he said, and these metals are cial glass-cutting tool. Finally, he uses cop-, added to glass in the form of a compound. .A per tape to connect lhe pieces together and compound is a combination of one or more applies heat to seal it all up. elements. For example, table salt is a comIn medieval times, when stained glass pound made up of the element* sodium and first became really popular, people used a chloride. different technique. The glass pieces were Yellow glass can be made using a com- held together with long strips of a bendy pound called cadmium sulfide. Red glass material made of lead. On each side of the can come from adding gold chloride. lead strip was a little channel where the Manganese dioxide can make glass purple. edge of glass could be tucked in. And like Blue glass comes from adding lhe com­ the technique Regul uses, adding heat to lhe pound cobalt oxide. strip helped keep lhe glass in place. Glassmakers add in compounds when Humans can use these really small piec­ they melt the sand The temperature has to es of glass — tn all sorts of colors - to form be just right for every thing to work. They a bigger picture or story'. Whether you are in heat the sand to about 3.000 degrees lhe lab or the studio, it’s amazing what you Fahrenheit - that’s even hotter than lava. As can create and discover when }ou set your lhe melted sand cools, it becomes glass. mind to it. It turns out. glass made from melted sand doesn’t always instantly become trans­ Dr. Universe parent. The glass sometimes has its own Do you have a question? Ask Dr. natural color. “You can imagine really old glass bot­ Universe. Send an email to Washington tles.” Regul said. ”They kind of have that State University's resident scientist and writer at Dr.UniverseQ wsu.edu or visit her bluish or greenish tinge. Glassmakcrs also figured out that a webs ite, askdruniverse .com. July 11. 1935 TO ALL CREDITORS. NOTICE TO CREDI'O0^ The decedent, Pau! Bioem, died April 7. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estaj0 will be fOfevor barred unless presented to Ohnalee B'oem. personal representative, or io both the prebate court at 206 W Court Street #302, Hastings. Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the dato of publication ot tn,s no.ic© Date: December 4. 2020 Enk H. Jesson P43510 2010 44th Street SE Grand Rapids Ml 49508 (616) 455-5200 Ohnalee Bloom 12760 Bowens Mills Road Wayland. Ml 49348 152169 (269) 792-6627 NQIICEjQFJMOHIGAGEFORECLOSURE.SALE Piis firm ts a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used for that purpose Notice of foreclosure by advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 t)f the revised judicature act of 1961. 1961 PA 236.M3L 600 3212, that the following mortgage will betorccrosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, dr some part of them, at a public auction sale to ths highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the ptace of holding the circuit court in Barry County. Michigan, starting promptly at one o’clock in the afternoon on Thursday, the 14th day of January, 2021 Pie amount due cn the mort­ gage may be greater on the day ot the sale. Placing the highest bid at the sa.'e does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and ciear ownership of the property A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this information. The mortgage was made by KRISTA ANN SHEL­ DON. a single woman (’Mortgagor"), to GREEN­ STONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES. FLCA. a feder­ ally chartered corporation, having an office at 3515 West Road. East Lansing. Michigan 48823 (the ‘Mortgagee’), dated July 17. 2009, and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Barry Coun­ ty, Michigan cn July 24, 2009. as Instrument No 200907240007681 (the ‘Mortgage’). By reason of a default under the conditions of the Mortgage, the Mortgagee elects to declare and hereby declares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage As of the date of this Notice there ts daimed to be due for princpal and interest on [he Mortgage the sum of Sixty Nine Thousand Eight Hundred Eight Six and 05/100 DOII^ ($69,886 05) No su.t or proceeding al law has teen instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereo . The premises covered by the Mortgage are s.tuated in the Townshipof Thornapple County o BarLo?2l° Sandy^no’T1aowrd.ng to the redded ptaUtaeOnnd»^. Pa9e 59 0lBauy ^CTnnn»hCC°.r<th ill fixtures, tenements, heredita­ ments. and a^urtenai®” belonging ot in any way aPS3y,OxX^2F-Avonue.M,d. dleville, Michigan 49333 Banner CLASSIFIEDS : • ; . • . ' • I ’ : ■ ' ’ • dpmnit^ ~ wilt lbo SX (0 months from the date oS0?,£'c'X t^ri^ a,e abandoned II tho CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 premises am ibanda’,<’)' lh0 redemption period X the lateiftom ,h° dal- 01 Community Notice abandoned and Mortgagf-_^9oan^r ^0irs ex­ ecutor. or admimstraicr. or a Pe^on lawfully cla.m•ng from or under one (D °f ‘JfJ? Pas no‘ 9>ven the 11 usiness Services BUYING A LI HARD' WOODS: Walnut, While Oak, Tulip Poplar. < •>» Jof pricing. Will buy single a nut trees. Insured, liabimv ’ Workman'* comp* l etferxy Digging, (269)81 S-//1-.* _—. MATT ENDSLEY/ FA BRI’ CATION and repair, cu<!otn trailers, buckets, bale -pears, etc. Call 269-501-7^^- ___ _ BELLS CONS I RUCTION* years experience. I h _v ' painting, tile, flooring/ ,nn[' home improvement rubl,i'> 1 removal. 269-320-3890. Digital TV Antennas Cell Phone Boosters 2R9 967.8241_ *r wiwu wt a es RnWRlKMOWt ... attention hhs class of I960’ A 60lh (Yes! 60th!) Class Reunion is being sched­ uled for I hursday, December 17, 2020 1L00 AM! This will be on ZOOM in the comfort of your home. All vou need is a P/t, lap-top, or tablet with internet access. We’ll provide instruction on accessing ZOOM! Please Contact Doug Stowell at dwr . t0ivellJllL'Xin.-»l^in or :v I 27M299ASAPI lk> "there" or be "‘quare"! ____ I or Sale kASSON >«FI (,AK , hi.- excellent condition 51,000.00 or OBO. 269-908_________________ ______ TTT^ N SI'ORl H.® o '■""••• phone 209-908-1654. AIR the limit ihr mill students enrolled In ‘ m would ik would IK ""fCmn'ly Weeks sai<l four Hasting, students and one student from Delton are in d'e class. Another Hastings student may the croup soon, she added. In other buxine”- lhe hM"l. Approved a telecommutmg pohey allowing BISD staff to ww*1 from J*’1”*. Briefly discussed seeking an enhancement millage in 2021. However, after discussacm. board members verbally opted against the P'"71ie timing is wrong for a millage, board member Marsha Bassett said. - Approved the BISD Education Associate collective bargaining agreement ratsing the benefit from $20,000 to $50,000 for life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance. , . - Heard an update from Frankbn, w o^sat he is still in the hiring process for an additional early lite nicy coach. legal notices Stella Faye McKinney, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on November 20. 2020 to Janna McKinney and Daniel McKinney of Hastings. Marilyn Yvonne Bailey, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on November 21, 2020 to Betty Jo Bailey of Lake Odessa. ° Kun.,:... , . Malt ., . Goebel . . ... Superintendent attended »h.. the 'irtual meeting and added his thoughts about virtual learning. “One of the things I wrestle with, and I’m sure Rich |1 ranklin] does as well, is our families.” Goebel said. ‘‘We have a lot of families that have to continue to work.” Hastings students are already participating •n remote learning :uid will not return to in-person learning until al least Jan. 18,2021. One of the student groups most disappointed about reverting to remote learning is the behavior support class. Weeks said. ’’They were really discouraged because they could not meet every day as a class “ Weeks said, adding that their frustration with remote learning shows that the in-person class focused on improving student behavior can be considered a success. One of the primary focuses of the class is to teach kids coping skills and how to deal with crisis management. Weeks said. At the onset of the new class, Franklin said the sale or upon expiration o fifteen (15) days af­ ter th.v ie Given notice pursuant to MCLA §600 3241 a?bMhat lhe premises are considered H the nremises ate so'-d at a forec.osurc safe, under MCLA 6600 3278 tfn- Mortgagor will bo held rc.SponsX§too' P^cn?^ or^’to0 T 'bo mortgage toreclosur« «,lcl ®' >° 'he Mortgagee lor damaging lhe p-e^5 ou,ln9 'he redemption period u Attention homeowne^ Y0? **j*whtary ser^cc member on active dUjYPe.iod ol active has concluded less ^-ago or if you have been ordered 1° a . . .-t^' P!-ase contact attorney for the ,h° Mortgage at lhe telephone number ,n thls notlco greenstone^ c«K0,r SERV'CES. Ft CA Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 ot the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212. that ttio following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of lhe mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting prompt­ ly at 1:00 PM. on January 14, 2021. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and dear ownership of the property A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a foe for this information: Name(s) of the mortgagor(s): Ronald J. Hermemtt and Ruby M Hermenitt, husband and wife Original Mortgagee: Ditech Financial LLC FKA Green Tree Servicing LLC F/K/A CONSECO FI­ NANCE SERVICING CORP. Foreclosing Assignee (if any): U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior/Subordmate Pass-Through Certifi­ cate Trust 2000-5 Date of Mortgage June 13. 2000 Date of Mortgage Recording: Juno 21. 2000 Amount claimed due on date of notice. $86,581.01 Description of the mortgaged promises. Situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County. Michi­ gan. and described as That Part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 20. Town 2 North, Range 10 West, described as. Commencing at the Northeast corner of said Section; thence South 89 degrees 59 min­ utes West 1009 17 feet along the North line of said Northeast 1/4 to the Centerline of Lindsey road; thence South 08 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds West 33.35 feet along said Centerline to the place of beginning, thence North 89 degrees 59 minutes East 233.00 feet; thence South 08 degrees 17 min­ utes 30 seconds West 220 00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 59 minutes West 233.00 feet, thence North 08 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds East 220 0 feet along sa»d Centerline to the place of beglnn.ng Common street address (if any): 11224 Ronald Ln, Delton. Ml 490-16-776-1 The redemption period shall be 6 months from the date of such sale,7 unless determined aban­ doned in accordance with MCL 600 3241a; or. If the subject real property is used for agricultural purpos­ es as defined by MCL 600 3240(16) If lhe property is sold at foreclosure sale under Chapter 32 of the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600 3278 the borrower w.ll be held responsible to the person who buys the property at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the mortgage holder for damaging the property during the re­ demption period Attention homeowner If you are a military serv.ee member on aefive duly, if your penod of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago. or if you have been ordered to uefive duty, please contact the at­ torney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. This nonce is kom a dobl col!ec,of' Data ol notice November 26. 2020 Trott Law. PC 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Suite 145 Farmington Hi'ls. Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 Mortgagee Jmothy HiH&gonds JUDD LLP ^RNOriCROSb;^,^ •au Ottawa Avenue NW , ,B7 Fkp:ds. Ml 99WLU,, (616) 752-2000 2l0’3 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY PUBLICATION NOTICE TO CREDITORS DECEDENT'S.TRUST ESTATE In the Matter of the Joyce L Phelan Revocable Trust dated August 15.1996. as restated Decedent’s dale of birth February 19.1927. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS' Your interest in this matter may be barred or affected by the following: The decedent. Joyce L Phelan, lived in Barry County, Middleville, Michigan, and died October 22. 2020 Creditors of the deceased are notified that all decedent's assets were held by the Trustee at decedent’s death, and the decedent has no probate estate Creditors of the deceased are further notified that all claims against the trust estate will bo forever barred unless presented to: Colin R. Cruttenden, Trustee and/or the attorney’s office representing Cohn R Cruttenden as Trustee within 4 months of the publication of this notice This notice is published pursuant to MCL 700 7608 If a probate estate is opened in the future for the decedent, this notice is intended to satisfy the requirements of MCL 700 3801. Notice is further given that the trust estate will be thereafter assigned and distributed to the person(s) entitled to it. December 9. 2020 Cohn R Cruttenden 38 Island Ct. Hastings. Ml 49058 269-948-8437 152357 1425393 (11-26)(12d7) 51880 151499 SYNOPSIS ORANGEVILLE TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING DEC 1.2020 HELD ELECTRONICALLY Meeting called to order 7 pm. roll call, a'l board members present. Rre Chief Ribble. 2 guests Minutes November 10 . 2020 approved, rofi call vote all ayes. Motion approved paying of the bills, roll call vote a!l ayes Department Reports Public Comment: None Motion approved 2021 calendar, roll call vote all yeas. Motion approved purchase of new fire truck, roll call vote all ayes. Motion approved to retain John Wickham as sexton, roll call vote al! ayes. Recommendations for member of Board of Review position beg.nning March 2021. Motion to adjourn, meeting ad;oumed 7:38 p.m. Submitted by: Mel Risner/Clerk Attested to by. Tom Rook/Supervisor 152027 STATE OF MICHIGAN BARRY COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT CASE NO. 20-787-CH HON. VICKY L. ASPAUGH LEE SHUMWAY, as Trustee of the Douglas & Christine Shumway Living Restated Trust, under a Declaration of Trust dated August 23.2004, as amended. Plaintiff. v. UNKNOWN OWNER or her or hit unknown heirs. devisees, or assignees. Defendant Sara Lachman (P67523) Lachman Stuart PLC Attorneys for Plaintiff 15 Ionia SW. Suite 520 Grand Rapids. Ml 49503 616.208 5533 slachman @ lachmanstuart com Q£DEBJQBAtfflNG^lJVNIlfESJ/£filElED. MQILQN FOR ALTERNATIVE SERVICE UNDER MCR 2dQ6{D) This action involves a Scrivener’s error in a deed s property description for real property located in Barry County. Michigan, described as follows: Commencing at the northwest comer of Sec­ tion 35, town 4 north, range 10 west, for a place of beginning, thence south 21 chains 70 links, thence east to the bank of the river 41 chains, 30 links, thence northwesterly along lhe west bank ot said river to post No. 6 United States Survey, thsnee west on section line to place of beginning, EXCEPTING THEREFROM commencing al the northwest comer of said seebon 35, thence south on section line 15 rods 10 fee. thence east to center of highway, thence northwesterly along center of said highway to section line, thence due west along said section lino to place of be­ ginning, ALSO EXCEPTING therefrom a parcel of land conveyed to Charles H. Ring and Marion C. Ring as recorded in Liber 151 cl deeds on page 597 and ALSO EXCEPTING therefrom a parcel conveyed to Vinal V. Tabor and Evelyn Ta­ bor. as recorded in Uber 207 of deeds on page 242, being part of the northwest 1/4 of section 35. town 4 north, range 10 west. Thornapple Township, Barry County. Michigan. In the underlying action, the Pia;nt'fl. Lee Shum­ way. as the Trustee of the Douglas and Christine Shumway Restated Trust, under a Dec'aration of Trust dated August 23,2004 as amended ('Trustee*) seeks to correct lhe Property's desenphon and quiet title to the property in the Trust or, m the alternative, obtain title over the orphan stnp of property that was inadvertently created in favor of the Trust based on adverse possession. Defendant is an unknown person or her or his un­ known heirs, devisees, of assignees, who may daim an interest in the property Because the identity of anyone who may claim such an interest is unknown and presently unknowable, m the present motion, the Trustee seeks this Court s autf’onzaton to effect service of process through publication in accordance with MCR 2 106(D). Based upon the facts asserted in ttie Plaintiff's Verified Motion for Service Undei MCR 2.106(D) and being otherwise fuuy informed, the Court finds that the Trustee has sufficiently shown that servee ot pro­ cess cannot reasonably be made upon Defendant in a manner prov ded under MCR 2 105 THEREFORE. IT IS ORDERED that 1. Trustee's Verified Motion for Alternative Service is GRANTED 2. Per MCR 2 105(1). this Court perm ts service of process to be made m accordance with MCR 2.106(D). such that service shall be deemed comp'ete upon P!amtifi pub! shing a copy c! the contents of vi,3 Oider once each week tor 3 consecutive weeks In tho Hastings Banner (tne "Publication Per od’) 3. No mailing under MCR 2.105(D)(2) ta necessary as there is no last known address 4 If no Answer to the Complaint has been tiled with th's Court and served upon Plaintiff within 21 of the last dale of the Publication Period, this Coun thali enter a Default and Default Judgment in favor ol Plaintiff IT IS SO ORDERED Dated November 30 2020 Hon Vicky L. Aspaugh Bafty County Circu.1 Court Th s Order does nol resolve the last pending c<a, or close the case. 152l83 �players spread across county Talented Brvtt Bremer Sports Editor \ season that got » smrtAu™^."’'°a pretty successful one for Coum> 5 v"’ sity boys* soccer teams. Thomapple Kellogg was one of the stron­ gest reams in the OK Gold Conference once again. Hastings had one of its best seasons yet in the Interstate-S Athlenc Conference. Lakewood had one of its best boys’ soccer seasons ever. Delton Kellogg was home to Bany County’s lone all-state honoree. Maple Valley as a few of its most skilled soccer play­ ers ever working through the varsity program as well. A handful of football players looked to play soccer this fall when it was thought their sport would be moved to the spring. When football returned most went back to their sport, but a few stayed on to help their soccer program at Delton Kellogg. The Panthers had a handful of two-sport athletes competing for them on their first season on the new artificial turf on the field at the high school in Delton. I^kewood finished with one of its best records ever at 14-3-1 overall, reaching lhe district finals in Division 3. The Vikings were the only local team to play in a district final. Here are the 2020 All-Barry County Boys’ Soccer First and Second Teams. All-Barry County Boys’ Soccer First Team Owen Bailey. Maple Valley: A three-ycar varsity player, bailey was named to the all-dis­ trict team as a junior this fall. Bailey was named second team all-confer­ ence in the GLAC this season. He had a pair of goals in his team’s 3-1 win over Bellevue in the opening round of the Division 4 state tournament. Kirby Beck, Hastings: Beck, a senior cap­ tain for the Saxons from his center midfield spot, he was named first team all-conference in the Interstate-8 and to the all-district team as well. He scored ten goals this season, notching five of them by taking the ball out of lhe air. “He is physical, he is super fast, and prob­ ably the most athletic kid 1 have ever coached. Htt was raUU.gQQdJftLhc.air" said Hastings nead coach Francisco Lopez. Keegan Cook, Hastings: A senior captain in Che center midfield for the Saxons earned all-conference honors in the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference this season. “He was my most skilled player when it comes la technical ability. His footwork was impeccable,” said coach Francisco Lopez. “He is really hard to slop when he gels into open space. ’ Austin Chivis, Thomapple Kellogg: An all-conference performer in the OK Gold Conference for the Trojans this fall. Chivis recorded six goals and had one assist forTK. Connor Fcighn, Lakewood: The Vikings’ junior center back was the heart and soul of his team’s defense according to head coach James LeVeque. He was named first team all-conference in the GLAC and an all-district performer as well. The team voted him its best defensive player and lhe team MVP. “Every game he located lhe opponents’ most dangerous players and made it his mis­ sion to completely shut them down. Our defense gave up the least amount of goals since I’ve been coaching (16 years)," said coach LeVeque. Caleb Fletcher, Lakewood: Fletcher had nine goals and 15 assists as a senior center midfielder for the Vikings. A team captain, he was named all-conference in the GLAC and an all-district player. “Caleb was the straw that stirred the drink for our offense. His greal ball control and distributing abilities consistently led lo scor­ ing chances in our attacking third," coach -____ Li-------- Keegan Cook James LeVeque said. Aaron Gole. Hastings: A senior center back for the Saxons, he was named honorable men­ tion all-conference in lhe Interstale-8 Athletjc Conference this fall. ’tn “He was the best defender on the team by far. Against Plainwell (in districts) he had 11 tackles in lhe first half. I personally counted those. He is commanding. He is a leader. He is very loud. He is someone you want as >our last line of defense." Nate Hildabrand, Thomapple Kellogg: One of the leaders of the Trojan midfield, he recorded two goals and an assist as a senior this fall. Hildabrand was named an all-conference performer in lhe OK Gold this year. Gavin Houtkooper. Delton Kellogg: The Panthers’ senior goalkeeper earned third team all-state honors in Division 3 this fall. He earned all-conference and all-district honors for lhe fourth consecutive season. Houtkooper, a team captain, recorded four shut outs and 105 total saves this season. He stopped five of six penalty kicks against him this season. He also tallied a goal and an assist himself. Houtkooper was also the kicker for the Delton Kellogg varsity football for lhe first time this fall. Hector Jimenez. Delton Kellogg: A sopho­ more attacker who used his skill on both ends of the field as needed for the Panther:. Jimenez had 11 goals and three assists, leac ing the DK team in scoring this season. Jimenez was named all-conference an 1 all-district this season. He was a region; 1 qualifier in cross country this fall as well. ' Kaiden Pratt. Thomapple Kellogg: A phys­ ical presence on the back line for the Trojans. Pratt also had two goals this season. He was named all-conference in the OK Gold this year. Graham Price, Thomapple Kellogg: Price was one of the leaders of the Trojan defense this fall. He was named an all-conference performer in lhe OK Gold. Thomas Wickham, Hastings: A senior in his first season as the Saxon varsity team’s regular starting goalkeeper, Wickham saved 70 percent of the shots that came at his net this season. “He is just a natural keeper with natural ability. His instincts are insane.” coach Francisco Ixjpez said. “Keepers do some pret­ ty crazy stuff sometimes, stuff that just kind of blows your mind and you’re just looking at deadline humsano news IhIm,sI.s Banner ” HEW YEAR S deadlines Deadline for ADS: Monday, Dec. 28 at Noon Deadline for NEWS: Monday, Dec. 28 at Noon Deadline for CLASSIFIEDS: Monday, Dec. 28 at 2 p.m. Pi„„ ..a b. on side of lhe field this year, improving boLhMj dribbling skills and his ab‘'^“df coach James LeVeque said. He put lots of pressure on defenders with a slick hesitation move that allowed him to find the baselme T“‘sJw Gavin Houtkooper Caleb Fletcher them like, how did you just do that. How on Comer was named honorable mention God’s green Earth did you just stop that ball all-conference in lhe OK Gold. from going in the net. Tommy Wickham was Jackson Curtis. Thomapple Kellogg: A tal­ just one of those guys." ented midfielder for TK, Curtis had three goals and two assists this season. All-Barry County Boys* Soccer Second Team Curtis was an honorable mention ail-con­ James Blackbum. Delton Kellogg: A soph­ ference selection in lhe OK Gold Conference. omore leader for the Panthers, Blackbum set Caden Faurot, Maple Valley: A three-ycar plays in motion from his center midfield spot. varsity performer. Faurot was named the He finished the fall with a goal and five Lions’ team MVP this fall. assists. Faurot was a second-team all-conference Blackbum was named honorable mention selection in the GLAC. all-conference in the SAC this season and Nate Flikkema, Hastings: Flikkema was a all-district as well. key player for the Saxons from his center Colby Carter. Lakewood: Carter, a sopho­ defensive midfield spot this season. more who split time between forward and the “He was arguably my smartest player when midfield, led lhe Vikings in goals this season it comes lo decision making. He had the high­ with 12 and had six usists.est soccer IQ I’d call it. He is a very, very “Colby’s ability ho pressure opposing good distributor. Not so much of a goal-scor­ defenses this year. wA second to none on lhe er, he was the guy who would assist ot assist teain. Game in and game out he gave every­ the assist. He is very’’ good at controlling the thing he had and was always in the face of a pace of the game," coach Francisco Lopez defender chasing down a ball ready to capital­ said. ize on a mistake.” coach James LeVeque said. Jake Jackson, Lakewood: Jackson, a senior Mitchell Comer, Thomapple Kellogg: outside midfielder, had seven goals and five Comer had three assists as a key member of assists for the Vikings this fall. the Trojans’ midfield this fall. "Jake stepped up in a big way on the out- and have great success.” Tyson Rattler. Lake wood: A junior fullback for the Vikings, Raftter played on the outside back and scored two goals and had an assist from there. Massive throw-ins were a big part of his game, allowing the Vikings to treat any deep throw-in like a comer kick. “Tyson was a top notch defender this year, consistently taking opposing forwards and raids out of their game with a tough physical style,” coach James LeVeque said. Duncan Seume, Maple Valley: Seume scored three goals in a late-September wnn over Bellevue for the Lions. Seume was named first team ail-conference in the GLAC this season and an all-district performer loo. Xander Signeski, Hastings: Signeski was one of lhe leaders and one of the top athletes for the Saxons during his senior season in the midfield. “I think he is the fastest player on my team. He is a workhorse. He is a midfielder. He just runs up and down the field," coach Francisco I-opez said. “The workload that he carried for me was insane. I would look at him at the end of the game and say I don’t know how you managed to run for that long - for 80 minutes. I don’t think I ever subbed him off. He got a yellow card one time and I think he was off the field for maybe 45 seconds and then he was back on." Kearan Tolles, Hastings: A sophomore for­ ward for the Saxons, he scored five goals and had four assists this season. “He is always in shape. He is arguably the most in shape guy I have. He can run for days and days and days. He primarily played wing­ er and forward. He is just an Energizer bunny and he was always in the right place al the right time. That is why he had five goals,’’ coach Francisco Lopez said. Caleb Waller. Hastings: A sophomore defender filled the'Jett back spot for the Saxons admirably while faking in the experi­ ence of the seniors around him. “He matured into a very, very composed left back," coach Francisco Lopez said. Even before he’d had much time lo gain varsity experience he was a key part of the defensive effort that secured the Saxons’ an early-season 2-1 victory over Coldwater in 1-8 play. ' Basketball season won’t begin with a jump ball The earliest possible start date for a varsity basketball game in the state of Michigan is now set for Jan. 4, 2021, but ballgames beginning that soon even is unlikely. When they do start, there won’t be a tip-off. Visiting teams will open ballgames by inbounding the basketball whenever the season begins. That is one a few alterations to rules released by the National Federation of State High School .Associations in recent months to change games to make them less likely to contribute to the spread of COVID19. In a year without a pandemic, the high school varsity girls’ basketball season in the state of Michigan would have begun competition the last night of November. The boys would hit the hardwood in the first full week of December. With new state health department orders released this week, varsity basketball teams and other winter sports teams in the state of Michigan won’t have the go-ahead until at least Dec. 21 - when most school districts are beginning the holiday break. That list of winter sports also includes ice hockey, wrestling, competitive cheer, boys’ and girls’ bowling, boys’ and girls’ skiing, and boys’ swimming and diving in the Lower PeninsulaThe elimination of a jump ba! I and opening a basketball game with the first alternation possession and a throw-in is the only true game-play alteration to <hc NFIIS ruIebook that affects the came other than personal protective equipmenl off-court and officials soeial distancing *nd san,t,zal,on considerations a -oin toss will determine which team will receive bal1 10 SUn overtime period. . Teams will a few c*Ira seconds to wtch their breath ls 30-*cond ,,mcou“ Wl" I* eliminated. Pur-irim *>" bc Provlded UP 10 five 60-scc^h^ed »ts dunng regulation. IntZ -'ficr the first and ,bird A-orten minutes if y. aUrcc<l uPon hy bolh veches be b Ua «?">'• OUrerssise. they w'll (tnWin °"C m'nU'C aCThcreer,”,,’CMIlSAAWeeU II II 11 I I I ply fl $ in the MHSAA’s 114"! ,ht fooiba'1 munraments. '"o rounds t .’P ayer, in «»* s,3,c 8’Playcr lootball loum! fin**1 U,reC r0Und< of ■he st u ., , ,an,»mb, ■*■ ,cnt and the lower A*%-*ST** •-> » Maple Valley’s Curtis Walker (left) and Delton Kellogg’s Cole Pape tip off their to , » December 2019 match-up with a jump ball at center court. Social distancing alter r™ to the basketbail rulebook for lhe upcoming season have eliminated jumo bnik ♦ a ,Ons, basketball games this winter. (File photo) 10 °PQn �The Hastings Banner - Thursday, December 10. 2020 The H3sung*> mihiw — P^, „ " County’s top swimmers Ie4_jeam to conference title Brett Bremer Sports Editor season B’ris* swimming and diving Michiga'Sn 1 ofr,c,a,Iy over to s,nlu . . swimmers in the Lower Peninsula ,h, 111 " idling for their chance (o compete in 'he Mate fina)s. 1 ne Delton Kellogg'Thomapple Kellogg/ Hastings Varsity girls' swimming and diving cam proved the best in the OK Rainbow Tier II Conference this fall, winning lhe confer­ ence meet by 105 points over the runners-up from Ottawa Hills and finishing 21.5 points ahead of the Wayland Wildcats who came into the conference meet tied with the DK/TK/ HHS girls for the top spot in the conference standings. Despite a lough start to the season, which included outdoor practices in Algonquin luikc at the YMCA of Barry County’s Camp Algonquin, lhe DK/TK/HHS girls worked lheir way towards personal best times once they got to get back into the pool in the Community Education and Recreation Center in Hastings by mid-Scptember. Here arc the members of the DK/TK/HHS varsity girls’ swimming and diving team that have earned spots on the All-Barry County First and Second Teams this fall. All-Barry County Girls' Swimming & Diving First Team • Holly Carpenter, Thomapple Kellogg: A freshman. Carpenter was one of the DK/TK/ HHS team’s fastest freestylers, placing tenth in the conference in the 50-yard freestyle and 12th in the 100-yard freestyle. • Carpenter also helped the DK/TK/HHS 400-yard freestyle relay team to a fifth-place finish at lhe conference meet. Claire Green, Hastings: The DK/TK/HHS team’s top diver this fall. Green reached the -semifinal round of her team’s Division I Diving Regional in Hudsonville last month. • Green, a junior, placed third al the OK .Rainbow Tier II Conference Meet in lhe div­ ing competition with an 11-dive score of 310.05 points. • Anna Haywood, Hastings: A sophomore. Haywood was a conference medalist in all Abby Marcukaitis four of the events she took part in this fall including championships in the 200-yard medley relay and the 200-yard freestyle relay. vidual medley. Bishop was one of three DK/TK/HHS divers Haywood was seventh in the 100-yard but­ Marcukaitis was also a part of DK/TK/ to earn a spot in the Division I Regional at terfly and eighth in lhe 100-yard freestyle at HHS victories in the 200-yard medley relay Hudsonville at the end of the season. the conference meet. Bishop placed fifth at lhe conference meet and the 200-yard freestyle relay at the confer­ Dalace Jousma, Thomapple Kellogg: The ence meet. in her event. DK/TK/HHS team’s senior distance leader. Tyior Buxton.Thomapple Kellogg; Buxton Juliann .Meeker, Hastings: A senior. Meeker She placed .sixth in the 200-yard freestyle at helped lhe DK/TK/HHS team to conference got a spot in the C Final in the two distance the conference meet and eighth in the 500- championships in the 200-yard medley relay races for DK/TK/HHS at the conference meet yard freestyle. and the 200-yard freestyle relay this year. to cap off her senior season. Jousma was also a part of her team’s fifth­ Meeker finished as high as fifth in an indi­ She placed 20th in the 500-yard freestyle place finish in the’400-yard freestyle relay at vidual event at the conference meet, earning and 22nd in lhe 200-y.udfreestyle. the conference meet. that spot in the 50-yard freestyle. She added Erin Daniels. Hastings: Daniels scored in a ' Abby Marcukaitis, Thomapple Kellogg: an eighth-place finish in lhe 100-yard butter­ pair of individual events al the conference No swimmer has her name on the Delton fly as well. meet as a sophomore this season. Her best Kellogg/Thomapple Kellogg/Hastings record Ellen Shults, Hastings: Shults closed out finish came in the 100-yard breaststroke board more than Marcukaitis, lhe junior who her junior season with a pair of individual where she was 12th overall. tied for the most points in the OK Rainbow­ scoring finishes at the OK Rainbow Tier II Daniels also had a 15th-place time in the Tier II Conference individual standings this Conference Meet. She placed ninth in the 200-yard individual medley at the conference fall. 100-yard freestyle and 11th in the 200-yard meet. Marcukaitis was a part of winning 200-yard individual medley. Aubrey Evans, Thomapple Kellogg: Evans medley relay and 200-yard freestyle relay Shults was also a member of the DK/TK/ capped her senior season with a spot in the C teams at the conference meet this fall, and HHS 400-yard freestyle relay team that placed Final of the 50-yard freestyle at the confer­ took the individual title in lhe 50-yard free­ fifth at the conference meet. ence meet where she finished 21st overall. style and the 100-yard backstroke. She is lhe Cadence Van Ooy, Thomapple Kellogg: A Evans also competed at the conference Conference record-holder in both of those sophomore, Van Ooy earned a spot in lite meet in the 100-yard freestyle and the 400individual events. She is still awaiting the finals in the 100-yard backstroke at the con­ yard freestyle relay. :hance to compete in the Division 1 Lower ference meet this fall and earned a medal with Lily Foy. Thomapple Kellogg: Foy finished ’eninsula Swimming and Diving Finals after an eighth-place time of 1:12.12. off a fine junior fall by placing ninth in the aming a state medal in the 100-yard back­ Van Ooy also scored for DK/TK/HHS at 100-yard backstroke at lhe conference meet. the conference meet in the 200-yard freestyle stroke as a sophomore. Foy scored in both of her events at lhe con­ [ Sophie Marcukaitis. Thomapple Kellogg: with a ninth-place finish. ference meet for DK/TK/HHS. also earning •An all-conference swimmer as a freshman, All-Barry County the 12th place points in the 200-yard individ­ Girls’ Swimming & Diving Second Marcukaitis won the OK Rainbow Tier II ual medley. Conference title in the 100-yard breaststroke Team Preslee Hall. Thomapple Kellogg: Hall Eve Bishop, Hastings: A sophomore, closed out her sophomore season in the pool after a runner-up finish in lhe 200-yard indi­ High school sports remain on ?pause’ until Dec. 21 at least ! The first return date for high school sports In the state of Michigan came and went ' The earliest possible date that high school student-athletes can return to action is^now bee. 21 after it was announced Monday that the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services was extending it s current pandemic orders for 12 days at least. • '■That means it is very unlikely we will be tuning any practices or tryouts before b^nber 21sand it is certainly possible, pe^-mber zis J()nger than >nd even probable. hat director ” Hastings High Sch Mike Goggins flails from MHSAA ‘ We are now waiting f or oe to how this extensmn of th pa uffect our Winter Sport encourage athletes » own and be patient. We wi an to otfer our middle • . on their we .onal athletic tthool students ils we have more wortunity we can. As s<»n s and fctails we will Jet iithletes, p PADN ./I Claire Greenspace by placing ninth in both the 50-yard freestyle and lhe 100-yard butterfly at the conference meet. ; She was less than a second from earning a spot on the medal stand in each of the two races. Foy was also a part of the fifth-place 400-yard freestyle relay team for DK/TK/ HHS at the conference meet. Kasey Kapteyn, Delton Kellogg: A sopho­ more, Kapteyn earned an 11th place finish at lhe conference meet in the 100-yard breast­ stroke for DK/TK/HHS. Kapteyn also earned a spot in the confer­ ence finals of the 100-yard butterfly where she placed 14th, one of four DK/TK/HHS swimmers to score in the event. Kallie Leary. Hastings: A junior, Leary capped off her season with a 12th-placc time in lhe 100-yard backstroke al the conference meet. the The Perfect Gift for the Person that has Everything Mike Goggins, Hastings High School athletic director oft the) Hastings) gannet? D * ONLINE $52 for 12 mo, Start Renew * HOME DELIVERY- (Barry County’) $52 for 12 mo, Start $10 for 1 mo Renew O $10 for 1 mo CJ $10 for 1 mo 0 * HOME DELIVERY- $60 for 12 mo Start Renew (Allegan, Calhoun, Eaton, Ionia, Kalamazoo & Kent Counties) Thad “We are now waiting for details from MHSAA as to how this exten­ sion of the 'pause’ will affect our Winter Sports seasons. Please encourage athletes to workout safely on their own and be patient. We will do everything we can to offer our middle school and high school students every educational athletic opportunity we can." Leary was also a part of DK/TK/HHS B team in the 200-yard medley relay and fin­ ished 19th with her performance in the C Final of lhe 50-yard freestyle. Elizabeth iMiddlelon, Thomapple Kellogg: Middleton, a freshman, scored in a couple of the toughest races for the DK/TK/HHS girls at lhe conference meet. She placed tenth in lhe 100-yard breast­ stroke and 13th in the 500-yard freestyle at the end of her first varsity campaign. Ainsley Parsons, Thomapple Kellogg: Parsons finished as high as 19th in an individ­ ual event at the conference meet at the conclu­ sion of her freshman year. She earned that spot in the 500-yard freestyle. Parsons also was 21st among racers in the 200-yard freestyle al the conference meet and competed in lhe 200-yard freestyle relay for DK/TK/HHS too. * HOME DELIVERY- $65 for 5 mo or more Start 0 Renew $10 for 1 mo O (Outside above counties) Recipient__ ~ Street Address City The MHSAA Representative Council met Wednesday lo once again begin the process of rescheduling the conclusion of its fall volley­ ball, football and Lower Peninsula girls’ swimming and diving tournaments and sched­ uling the start of the winter basketball, wres­ tling, ice hockey, skiing and competitive cheer seasons. “Wc realize the crisis our medical caregiv­ ers and first responders are navigating and understand lhe need lo continue the pause,” MHSAA executive director Mark Uyl said in a statement Monday. "However, the MHSAA provided a detailed p'311 10 ^°lh Governor Whitmer and MDHHS that would have com­ pleted fall tournaments '\,th spectators as safely as possible dunng the month of December along with allowing winter sport practices to resume. Whi'e Wc are disappoint­ ed in today’s announcement, we will continue to look forward as remain committed to Play three sports seasons to their conclusion.” Die Representative Counci win meet again Dec. 16 to formulate p'an/ Or next possi­ ble resumption of act»v,t'’ Zip State Phone Sent by Op lease send a card ^Enclosed is a check for $52 (12 mo) or $10 (1 mo) or amount for home delivery PLEASE BILL MY CREDIT CARD: OTisa ^MasterCard ^Discover Credt Card Number_________________________ _____—------- “ ' Expiration Date_______ Security Code--------------------- Xzmmunity know.” Mail to or drop off at Call 269-945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classitietl ails J"Ad PO Box 188/1351 N. M-43 Hwy, 269-945-9554 Save a stamp, purchase yutir «ill sui"‘1 WWW.hasting.shannei.com MI 4SV58 ,)l �Pa9e 12 _ Thursday. December to. 2020 — The Hastings Banner State marks 10,000 victims in battle against COVID-19 Thy lor Owens Staff Writer and Bridge Magazine Wags across the state will fly at half mast for 10 days - one for each of lhe 1,000 COV1D-19 deaths that have occurred thus far m Michigan. ’ On Tuesday. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer ordered U5. and Michigan flags to be low­ ered to half mast at al! public buildings and grounds in the state, from Dec. 8 to Dec. 18. ; There were 191 deaths in the state reported on the day Whitmer made the announcement. ' Whitmer also extended the economic “pause” by another 12 days, lite pause previ­ ously had been set to end Tuesday, but the date has been moved to Dec. 20. Statewide, there were 5,909 new continued cases of the coronavirus Wednesday, with suburban Wayne County reporting the most, 839. and Oakland County at 798. , The rate of new cases, though far higher now than it was in October, had dropped off slightly in the past two weeks. Statewide, on Nov. 21, there were an aver­ age of 70 new daily cases for every 100,000 people, but that fell to 63 daily cases per JOO.OOO since then and, in most counties, the rate has fallen. As of Wednesday morning, Barry County had 263 confirmed cases and 167 probable cases. Last week, the county had 361 active cases and 140 probable cases. • Barry' County also reported three more As of Wednesday morning, Barry County had 263 confirmed cases and 167 probable cases. Last week, the county had 361 active cases and 140 probable casesdeaths due to COVID-19 sines; last week bringing the total number of COVID-rclated deaths to 17. Eaton County reported 480 active cases and 220 probable cases, a change from 449 active and 180 probable last week. The county had 17 more deaths since last week, for a total of 61. . . Sarah Suma of lhe Barry-Eaton District Health Department said an epidemiologist recently looked al lhe data lo determine why Eaton County has had a higher death rate per positive cases than Barry Couniy. “There is no difference in the way COVID19 is reported between counties, or across the state,” Suma said. "The answer is likely relat­ ed to differences in the population of Barry' versus Eaton counties. "Racial health disparities with COV1D-I9 outcomes are unfortunately well-documented, and we believe the difference in the amount of deaths might be due to this phenomenon.” she continued. "There is evidence that AfricanAmericans with tend to have worse outcomes than individuals who arc while/Caucasian This due to nu,neroUs factors, especially those relating to institu­ tional racism." . Suma said the age range in deaths due to COVID is similar in both counties. In Barry' and Eaton counties, 45 is the aver­ age age of COVID-19 eases. Both counties also have recorded 13 pen-’ent of cases in lhe 70 and older age range. In Eaton County, 54 percent of hospitaliza­ tions have been patients who were 70 and older, while 61 percent of Barry' Couniy resi­ dents were 70 and older. . Eaton County has seen 6.4 percent of its deaths in the 70 to 79 a8c range. and percent of deaths , among those who were 80 and older. Barry Couniy has had 2.1 percent of deaths in the 70 to 79 age range and 5.4 percent of deaths were 80 and older. But Suma said there is a difference in the racial makeup of COVID-19 cases, due to I'.alon County’s more diverse population. “In Barry County, 100 percent of the indi­ viduals who passed away from COVID-19 where white," Suma said. "By contrast, in Eaton County, 70 percent of deaths were white.” According to population data from 2019. Eaton County is 83.1 percent white, and Barry County is 94.3 percent white. But the most recent numbers show lhe peo­ ple COVID-19 is affecting is changing. Deaths arc now' showing up across the state, from lhe far reaches of the Upper Peninsula to southwestern Michigan, from Alpena to metro Detroit. The people succumbing to the virus have changed since the spring as well: They are more likely to be older and white. While 40 percent of Michigan COVID deaths before Aug. I were African-Americans. 7 percent of deaths since Nov. 1 involve black residents. Whites, meanwhile, constitute 76 percent of lhe 2,741 confirmed or probable deaths since Nov. 1, up from 52 percent before August. The virus barreled through Detroit and its suburbs in March, April and May, but is now far more prevalent in other parts of the state where far fewer black residents live, includ­ ing the Upper Peninsula, and some western and south-central regions. Tlie populations of those regions also lend to be older. Roughly 50 percent of CO VID deaths since Nov. 1 included people 80 or older. Before Aug. I, this age group accounted for 43 per cent of deaths. Black people dying in this second wave are six years younger, on average, than white victims. The reduction in deaths among African-Americans could be a factor in the rising average age among all COVID deaths, according toRamya Naraharisetti,a University of Michigan researcher. West Michigan has felt much of the surge. Most of the 166 COVID deaths recorded in Ottawa County occurred since Nov. I. "Here in Ottawa County wc have seen a rising tide that has affected all of our demo­ graphies.” said Derel Glashowcr, Ottawa s chief epidemiologist. But fewer than 2 percent of Ottaw a County residents arc African-American. In contrast, in Detroit, which is 79 percent Black. 3.4 percent of the more than 1 /XX) deaths since the pandemic hit occurred in the past five weeks. After a crushing spring, Detroit, the state’s largest city, has had some of the lowest levels of positive tests, cases and deaths in the state in recent months, which experts attribute to Detroiters’ vigilance with masks and social distancing - hard-won lessons from the city’s earlier pain. Driver won’t be charged in fatal crash with Amish buggy Taylor Ow ens Staff Writer Ronald Ramsey, 84. of Vermontville, will not face criminal charges for the crash that killed three Amish children and injured a fourth in September of last year. After consulting with the parents of the children, and considering the applicable pun­ ishments in this case, Eaton County prosecuting Attorney Douglas Lloyd said he decided not to issue criminal charges. "The decision lo not charge Ronald Ramsey for the crash is not a statement about his crim­ inal culpability, rather a decision that charging him would not be likely to result in any additiqftftjupction or punishment.” Lloyd said in a press-release Nov. 30. L’byd said a review of the investigation reports showed probable cause to support ; • charging Ramsey with three counts of a mov­ ing violation causing death. According to those reports. Ramsey was westbound on Vermontville Highway, near Ainger Road, when he struck the horse-drawn buggy carrying the three children. The children, all siblings between the ages of 6 and 13, were traveling home from school. Their buggy was properly marked with lights and a slow-moving vehicle triangle. One of the children was wearing a reflective safety vest, investigators said. The buggy was on lhe right side of the road when it was struck from behind by Ramsey’s Chevrolet Equinox traveling 60 mph in a 55 mph zone, police said. The weather was clear, and the road was dry, according to their reports. Ramsey told investigators he did not see knowledge test, and a road test administered by lhe Secretary of State. Lloyd said that he actions by the Secretary of State against Ramsey’s driving privileges is greater than the sanction associated with a criminal conviction. "After a complete analysis of the case and possible consequences, the conclusion was reached that formal charging and conviction of Ramsey was not likely to accomplish more than a conviction on paper.” Lloyd continued. “The ends of justice would not be advanced Police block off Vermontville Highway, after the fatal crash in September of last year. by such a prosecution; therefore, the decision was made to close the case without formal (File photo) charges. The decision reached today was made in consultation with lhe family, and the buggy until lhe crash. convicted," Lloyd said. takes into consideration lheir wishes. The potential charges are misdemeanors, The prosecutor noted that, after the crash, "The loss of three beautiful children is an lhe prosecutor noted, which would would the Secretary of State held a hearing regarding unimaginable tragedy, and our hearts still carry a maximum sentence of two years of the crash and Ramsey’s driving privileges. At break for the family,” Lloyd concluded. probation, or one year in prison, with each the conclusion of that hearing, his driving "Their grace during this incident has been conviction concurred to the other, which privileges were suspended for 12 months, truly remarkable. May peace continue to be means they would be served at the same time. followed by an indefinite suspension. To have with them as they move forward. Let the "Based on Ramiey’s age, lack of criminal his driving privileges restored after that initial deaths of these children serve as a reminder to history, and lhe current COVID-19 pandemic, 12-monlh suspension has expired, Ramsey use care while driving, and take care of one it is unlikely that he would be incarcerated if would need to pass a vision exam, a written another.” Registration for October 2021 HOW TO DIVIDE UP PERSONAL POSSESSIONS WITHOUT DIVIDING THE FAMILY Allocating your personal possessions can be one of the most difficult tasks when creating an estate plan. To avoid family feuds after you are gone, it is important to have a plan and make your w ishes clear. When passing on possessions to your heirs, savings and investments arc easy to divide up, since they can be turned into cash. Real estate can also be turned into cash or co-owners can share it. The most difficult items to divvy up are personal possessions—silverware, dishes, artwork, furniture, tools, jewelry — items dial are unique and do not have a set resale value. In legal speak, these are known as "tangible personal property" and can become lhe focus of family fights. Often one or more children claim that a parent had promised them a particular item. Things may disappear from a house or an apartment shortly before or after a parent’s death, or a child may claim that her 90-year-old somewhat-demented mother "gave" her a cherished diamond ring during life. These types of situations can create great suspicion and irrevocably split families. Siblings may stop communicating due to their anger and distrust. Clarity about one's wishes can go a long way toward avoiding these difficulties. It is important that the personal representa­ tive of an estate secure the deceased per­ son's residence as soon as possible after death to make sure items don’t disappear Here arc a few steps you or the personal representative of your estate van take to make sure splitting up your stull does not split up your family" • Write a memorandum. You write a list of who should receive what ttent your estate plan references the list, it will KorceaWe. Be careful about how you describe each item so a confusion Unlike your will, this h« can be as long as you bke and you can change it without having og redo your will. Send • PY lawyer as well as any upda es as they occur to ensure the list does not get h st or ignored when the timccoinc^^^^^ Direct that certain items be sold. If y ou have one or more possessions that have much greater value than others, it can be difficult to make your distributions equal. It may make more sense to sell the items of greatest value and distribute the proceeds. Give everything away now. Well, perhaps not everything, but the more you disburse during life, lhe less that will have to be dealt with at death. When y ou make gifts, make sure that everyone knows about it so that the person receiving lhe gift is not suspected of having pilfered your jewelry box, for instance. There may be items that you would like to give away, but still want in your house. This is especially true of artwork and furniture. Get an appraisal. It can be useful to know the monetary value of the items you are giving away, whether during life or at death. This can also be very important for your personal representative and for your heirs in making their decisions. The more you decide who gels what rather than leaving the decisions to your family, lhe less likely the distribution process will create family strife. Set up an appointment with Longstreet Elder Law' & Estate Planning, PC to determine to discuss the best estate plan for you and your family! Robert J. Longstreet Longstreet Elder Law & Estate Planning P.C. 607 North Broadway Hastings. Michigan 49058 269-945-3495 Merry Christmas and a Safe New Year Barry-Roubaix begins in April The scheduled date for the 2020 Founders Barry-Roubaix Kilfcf .Gravel Road Race moved from April to October before officially being cancelled In August, Barry-Roubaix (BRX) organizers are now focused on an Oct. 1. 2021 return for the annual cycling event, which typically has occurred each spring, on the gravel roads between Hastings and Yankee Springs. "While we are hopeful that 2021 will allow us to once again nice and celebrate in the numbers associated with BRX. we are finding ourselves challenged with uncertainly while planning for the scheduled April 17 race date," The Pavement Ends Team that organiz­ es lhe event announced last week. “As much as we are hopeful the virus will be under con­ trol next spring, we will not rely on hope, only to find ourselves once again having to post­ pone or cancel the event due to ongoing health and safety concents.” "Our team and key race stakeholders believe Fall provides us with lhe highest prob­ ability for having the 2021 race.” the Pavement Ends statement added. *‘EaI1 als0 gives our team ample time to plan for the best possible experience you’ve come to expect from the Barry Roubaix." Registration for the 2021 event will open at noon April 10 2021 online at www.Bikereg. com for those who donated their 2020 entry and have a guaranteed reserved spot/opportun’ty to purchase a 2(P1 entry- Registration lor the balance of the 2(Pl *cc spOb wiH Opcn t0 evety'one at noon onApnl 24" , As move into the new year and plan for •he October date we will continue mo""or •he state of lhe’ vinl5 and keep everyone "’lomted should we need » ",ake cha"B‘ es to these dates ’’ the Pavement Ends team wrote. ’ "Once again ti,n„k you for a" lhe S"plK,n you have shown ^/to’1" ‘hrou8houl th,s lough year. We 1. “u-ited for the belter days >hut He ahead an^he rides and races that will bring our cyclic . .mtnunity together again. The I’avcm 8 is Team includes Rick a"*J Cathy Pl'"' £tie and Scott TenCate " • he^Olv' BRX i,^10 rc8j'U'red rilk? LONGSTREET r™ r™ ™ i"’”’ "',h 24811,111111,1 The Pavement Ends team has announced that, after being forced to canrZu^^* Founders Barry-Roubaix Kilter Gravel Road Race, lhe 2021 event is beinn i he 2020 Oct. 2. Registration for the race begins in April. (File photo) 9 Planned for � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-12-17.pdf 97c48a52180984d273e57b7af6fe08b1 PDF Text Text Eight COVID deaths in county since last week A year to re,l>e,»bered - and ^cted See Story on Page 2 See Ell'11’ ____ Four Vikings, one Lion; spiker are All-State Sec Story on Page 12 "X" l Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 07602748 ............................CAR.RTLOT-C005 C005 Richard Hemer.mq 421 N Taffe e Dr ' ANNER Hastes Ml 49058-1J 24 6*30/2021 94700 AM VOLUME 167. No. 50 PRICE $1.00 Michigan starts Taylor Om cns Staff Writer and Rebecca Pierce Editor Barry County could see its first CO VID-19 vaccinations w ithin days. Spectrum Health administered lhe first vac­ cinations in Michigan to five Grand Rapids staff members Monday, w ith 5,000 more vac­ cinations expected to occur at Spectrum hos­ pitals this week. "We’re watching history right now." Spectrum Health West Michigan President Dr. Darryl Elmotichi said. "It gives us such great hope to know what’s coming in 2021 Although Barry County health officials say they don’t know when they will receive the first doses of lhe vaccine, they expect it w ill be within days. Barry-Eaton District Health Department Health Officer Colette Scriinger told the Barry County Board of Commissioners they expect an allocation of the vaccine from Modema before Christmas. although they don’t know the quantity they will receive. "We still don’t have all the information about lhe Modema vaccine," she said. "... We’re not clear if we’re going to get vaccines shipped to both offices (in Hastings and Charlotte) or one. There are still a lot of unknowns. "Our intent is to push out as much vaccine as we can.’’ The health department w ill, focus on pro­ viding the vaccine to home health agencies, dentists and other health entities not affiliated COVID vaccine More than 184.000 vials of lhe COVID-19 vaccine were shipped out of Pfizer’s plant in Portage. Mich. Sunday. Two FedEx trucks are shown here waiting for a shipment in one of the loading bays. (Photo by Scott Harmsen) with hospitals. "Many hospitals are receiving the vaccine already." Thornapple Manor Administrator Don Haney told Barry County commissioners Tuesday that he and hi> sial) are preparing for the CO VID vaccine to arrive in their building soon. "We’ve got all our materials and paper- work that we need to do. Our planning is right on pace and we’re ready logo,” Haney said. "We’re wailing for a (fate which we’ll get the vaccine here and we’ll get our residents and staff vaccinated. Hopc||lly .!hat is very soon. See VACCINE, page 2 A CBS cameraman talks to Amy MacMillan of Mattawan, who said she went to the Pfizer plant Sunday for no other reason than to show her appreciation for the vaccine’s distribution. (Photo by Rebecca Pierce) Cosarty b©arf grieves toss @y fefow commissioner Middleyille^s Dan Parker served churchy school^ community Dan Parker Oain] Parker leaves legacy of public service Greg Chandler Staff Writer Whether on the local school board, with the Rotary Club, village council or county board of commissioners. Dan Parker exemplified community service. For more than 20 years. Parker held an elected office in Barry County. He was preparing to conclude serving as the District 2 commissioner on the county board at the end of the year and move into his new role as supervisor of Ihomapple month-long battle with the ( OVII Mnis. He was 73. Parker had been admitted to Spectrurn Health Butterworth Hospital tn j. Hapids Nov. 14. He and his wile. Linda, had contracted the virus that vvee . - ' Parker said in a Nov. 17 telephone in l v "he did nol xnow where they. ma)- * c> Warted the virus, but quick!) ' People who had been in contact vvi < hi them know. Dan Parker was born Sept- /. • Mu>Ugon to RoiJo and Mary Pa^en » 1965 graduate of North H,Sh -School, where his high >choo See LEGACY, pa£e 11 Rebecca Pierce Editor Savanah Kaeclide C(attributing Writer Tuesday’s remote meeting of the Barry County Board of Commissioners was punctuated by the sound of choked voices as some commissioners wept for the loss of colleague Dan Parker. Parker. 73, of Middleville, died Friday of complications due to COVID-19. The grid extended beyond county commissioners. Moments of silence took place Sunday during a gathering on the courthouse lawn where no commissioners were present and Tuesday morning when a citizen asked for silence in Parker’s memory instead of taking the three-minute public comment opportunity to speak during lhe commissioners’ meeting. Monday night, during a regular Hastings City Council remote meeting, the Pledge of Allegiance was said in Parker's honor. “We had another friend of lhe city of Hastings pass away over lhe weekend - Dan Parker from Middleville," Mayor David Tossava said to council members. "Dan Parker was a great guy. Every time he had something going on, even though I wasn’t in his district, he'd call me and ask me my opinion on it. "Dan served as Barry County commissioner and he just won election to Thornapple Township's supervisor, and I’d like to have everybody keep him in mind tonight, and we’d like to send our condolences onto his family." Flags were flying at half-staff this past weekend to mark (he loss of ('OVID victims across Michigan. Tuesday, county board Chairwoman Heather Wing ordered a three-day state of mourning for all county facilities. “Barry County hearts arc broken by the death of Commissioner Dan Parker, a beloved friend and leader who passed away Friday, Dec. 11the resolution reads. "In recognition of his service and our grief, the board of commissioners has declared a three-day state of mourning beginning Wednesday. Protesters gather in Detton, Hastings to object to state orders Luke Eronchcck Staff Writer State restrictions on small locally owned businesses spurred two protests in Barry County last weekend. In Delton on Saturday and in Hastings on Sunday, groups of protesters gathered to show opposition to Michigan Department of Health and Human Services orders that require face coverings in public spaces, limit lhe size of gatherings and order restaurants to close for in-person dining. Tile order was first issued on Nov. 18 with an expiration date of Dec. 8. However, restric­ tions were extended until Dec. 20. In response to the extension, two Delton restaurants. Grove Street Cafe and Bowen’s Family Dining, opted to deny the order and continue to offer in-person dining to patrons. Owners and managers working at both businesses said they need to remain open so their staff can continue to work. A November survey of 6,<XX) restaurant operators conducted by the National Restaurant Association found that 33 percent of respondents said is unlikely they will s(j]| lx? in business in six months without addition, al relief from lhe federal government. Decisions to stay open by these Delton businesses prompted cease-and-desist orders from the Barry-Eaton District Health Department and fines of $1,000 a day f<M long as they choose lo remain open. "Hopefully, more establishments can step up and light for jour rights,” Bowen’s staff wrote in a Facebook post. "Obviously, this nuts us iu a terrible situation. Stay open and put our license. which had since 1976, in jeopardy or close our doors and continue to watch our employees suffer through this diffi­ cult time.” BEDHD Community Health Promotions Specialist Sarah Surna said, in addition to the fines, potential consequences for restaurants That continue lo violate the order include sus­ pension of liquor licensure, suspension of food service licensure, or revocalion of food service licensure. “It is our hope to cooperate with local and state partners to bring these restaurants into compliance as quickly as possible. as indoor dining poses a clear threat lo public health at This time.” Surna said Wednesday. "BEDHD is working with state agencies MDARD [MichiganW Department of Agriculture and Kural Development] and MDHHS to enforce ‘he order." „ The Barrj-Iiaton Health District and the MDHHS have civil remedies available to ‘hem to enforce the order should they receive n-’port for Harry County Prosecutor Julie i ‘ °or Pratt wrote Wednesday. .. . • The statute, M'\’‘T’’ //Spiled Laws 333.2221. cited by MlJIlH.S for hsua^e this order, L°.' ‘“’ls a section. MCI ■’•■’3.2261. which pr->v» « u possible crillljl)r,| Penally for «>nie oils. l-rau :ll|lW 'My goal i^’.^; ^l,'">hei,bo,1II|le “Kier." Ml -d- "'J “<>l al«,iys wh;l| ?°ine want to l’.CJ','ll|l,(ine(|.. 'C> l,‘nlhear m order to make । decisions. At this ■"»e.wehaie<lelen'--‘1,<’‘<uihon,il,s.su^1,1b7 See 0BjECt, page 3 County Courthouse lawn. "Accordingly, the board of commissioner^ has directed that the United Stales. Michigan! and Barry County flags at county government; facilities be lowered to half-staff on’ Wednesday. Dec 16, 2020, through Friday.’ Dec. 18.2020. "As Commissioner Parker touched many lives, lhe board of commissioners welcomes any individual or organization who mourn. Commissioner Parker’s death to join us in this, observation with their own flags." 'Che board also approved a resolution to honor the life and legacy of Parker. Voices cracked and quavered as commissioners voted to approve the measure. "Rest well, sir,” Wing said, choking out See PARKER, page 12 �2 - Thurwtty. 0««nh»r ’ ?•2020 ~ ™ H vaccine, continued from page 1 ~ te’U see it are Starting nest doses of the Pfi/£^jd ^ved much tik7 p^kt^from Amazon- although it : wm ‘ s,8"a'Ure W“ could have been an Xbox for your . kids, albeit much more important." Elmouchi S<>He and the staff unthawed one of the fiyedoL Vials to perform the first vaccinations for Spectrum Health Butterworth employees. “It felt like a spiritual moment for me, hold­ ing on to what really is hope for humanity.” Elmouchi said. Dr Mare McClelland, who specializes in pulmonary medicine,was the first Michigander ‘ io receive the approved vaccine. McClelland said he read into the data and research process behind the vaccine, and took consolation that many thousands of people had already received the vaccine in lhe trial phase. “I was more than ready to roll up my sleeve and get that vaccine." McClelland said. “1 feel unbelievably fortunate that this is a reality ' now.” ‘ Intensive Care Unit Registered Nurse ’ Yvette Kamana also was one of the five to receive the vaccine Monday. Kamana said she was initially skeptical of lhe vaccine, but became more confident as she read more ' about it. “Getting vaccinated is not just protecting , me, it’s protecting my family, it’s protecting • my patients." Kamana said. “Do your research, 'r follow lhe science and hopefully more people get vaccinated.” r Elmouchi said Spectrum is currently con­ ducting a survey of its staff, to find out who wants to receive the voluntary vaccine. Since Spectrum does not know how many vaccines ii will receive in the coming days, Elmouchi said they have not determined when regional hospitals, such as Pennock, will receive lhe vaccine. Spectrum Health Pennock Chief Operating Officer Bernard Jore said staff have been working for weeks to ensure they have the ability to store and distribute the virus. Many staff at the hospital are eager to receive the vaccine, after witnessing the effects of COVID-19 on their patients, he added. “I’m very excited, as a survivor of COVID myself. I wall very- gladly stand in line to get my vaccination,” Jore said. Since lhe Pfizer vaccine needs to be stored Vials of vaccine, which Michigan Monday. at temperatures of around minus-80 degrees Fahrenheit, and is delivered in 975 dose pack­ ages, distributing the vials is a challenge. Spectrum has three freezers in Grand Rapids, and two at its regional hospitals which are capable of storing the virus and which will serve as distribution hubs. The Barry-Eaton District Health Department is not equipped to store the Pfizer vaccine, so they will wait for the Modema vaccine, which doesn’t require the extreme temperature storage and can be refrigerated for up to 30 days, Scrimger said. The Food and Drug Administration is expected to approve the Modema vaccine for approval Friday. “Our first priority is going to be for high risk hospital workers and EMS, and medical first responders." BEDHD Official Anne Barna said Tuesday. Also included in lhe first round of vaccina­ tions will be staff and residents of long-term care facilities. “So far the big question is when, and so far that’s an answer we don’t have,” Don Haney, Administrator of assisted living facility Thomapple Manor, said Tuesday. “Hopefully we’ll have some in Barry County very soon. We’re just watching the news like every body else.” Facilities like Thomapple Manor will receive their vaccines from pharmacies such as Walgreens and CVS in the coming weeks. “I feel very good about the vaccine, I feel very good about its efficacy,” Haney said. “I think everybody is looking forward to the day when family can come in and hug their loved ones." After the first group of people arc vaccinat­ ed, the next round will include “workers in Intensive Care Unit Registered Nurse Yvette Kamana was one of five to get the COVID-19 vaccine Monday in Grand Rapids. She said getting the vaccine was about more than just protecting herself, it was about protecting her family. on Sunday, wer0 to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Eight new COVID deaths in Barry County since last week Thylor Owens Dr. Darryl Elmouchi, Spectrum Health West Michigan president, said the vaccine’s release this week "gives us such great hope to know what's coming in 2021." essential and critical industries, including workers with unique skill sets such as non-hospital or non-public health laboratories and mortuary services,” according to a BEDHD presentation Tuesday. The third phase “includes people at high risk for severe COVID-19 illness due to underlying medical conditions, and people 65 years and older.” Afterwards, vaccinations will be available for all adults. How* the health department moves through those phases may be somewhat fluid. “What we’ve been told by lhe state is that it’s not like we have tovaccinate every health­ care worker befotf we start with other groups,” Barna sa/d.’ The department will partner with a number of organizations so there will be multiple locations for the general public to receive the vaccination, when that phase begins. Both vaccines come in two doses, separat­ ed by 21 days for the Pfizer vaccine, and 28 days with the Modema version. The second dose must be the same version as the first dose, since the Pfizer and Modema vaccines arc not interchangeable. Elmouchi said the research data shows that a person does not develop strong immunity to the virus until they have received the second dose. As the vaccines have become more of a reality, healthcare organizations around the world have also started public information campaigns, to educate people on the safety and effectiveness of lhe vaccines. Barna said BEDHD will have information on their website at barryeatonheallh.org/coronavirus. Face book page and more. The cam­ paign is expected to ramp up as the general population phase approaches. The goal is to vaccinate 70 percent of the population. “If wc reach 70 percent we will be able to much, much better be able to control out­ breaks.” Barna said. Community t Christmas Events Family Christmas Caroling Special Guests Santa and Mrs. Claus! Saturday, December 19,2020 at 4:30 pm Drive-in event: Come and sing in the safety and warmth of your car! Tune your car radio to 105.1FM. Christmas gifts for the children. Christmas Eve Eve Worship Wed., December 23,2020 at 7:00 pm Facebook LIVE on Christmas Eve Eve! G/S(.o UnIWtf Merfmdv.; ♦ 2Q9 W OnVn«Wc«rf<i» ♦ f-sc-boo'-lorn »’ ,.»1 St ♦ H first Michigander Dr. Marc McClelland, a specialist in pulmonary medicine, was Staff Writer Barry County has reported eight C0V1D­ 19 deaths in the last week, for a total of 25 since March. Barry-Eaton District Health Department Official Anne Barna said an increase in COVID-19 deaths typically follows a rise in cases by about two weeks. With the recent spike of COVID-19 cases in Barry County, Barna said the new deaths were to be expected. “We had what 1 would call extremely high rates over most of November,” Barna said. The United States recorded more than 300,000 deaths due to COVID-19 on Monday, and has recorded a total of 16,650,000 cases, according lo Johns Hopkins University. Local health officials said that, fortunately, in the past two weeks, the county has been able to cut the number of active cases by more than half. As of Tuesday morning, Barry County had 160 positive cases, and 178 probable cases. Two weeks earlier, Barry County had 361 active and 140 probable. “We’re really excited to see that," Barna said. Michigan residents have been staying at home much more in the past few weeks, which can be seen in cell phone data and the number of COVID-19 cases. “Wc haven’t seen the Thanksgiving spike that we were really concerned about, and I think that’s really a credit to the residents. BTheTaid the "Pause to Save Lives” order issued by the Michigan Department of Heal h and Human Services, which temporarily shut down certain businesses and services, was likely a factor. e . “As the cases have fallen, hopefully the rate of deaths will as well.” Barna said. The drop in cases also takes pressure off health department employees, who are have been trying to conduct contact tracing on as many cases as they can. Health department official Sarah Surna said workplaces and churches have been some of the most common places people have spread the virus. But Barna said there are still too many cases for the department to contact everyone. “We only have so many staff and can only call so many people in a day.” The health department is continuing to urge people to practice social distancing and work from home whenever possible. Spectrum Health West Michigan infectious disease expert Dr. Russell Lampcn said the vaccine being distributed now creates a light at the end of lhe tunnel, but it will not stop the spread of COVID-19 in the community for some time. “I think we’re still looking at high rates in the community and high rates of hospitaliza­ tions going forward for the next few weeks,” Lampen said. Barry County chairwoman closes term wite state of county recap Rebecca Pierce Editor Tuesday’s remote Barry County Board of Commissioners meeting via Zoom was one of “lasts.” It was the last time the board would meet in 2020. The last time the name of Commissioner Dan Parker, who died Friday, would be called during a roll-call vote. And it was the last time for Heather Wing to chair the board since she chose not to run for re-election and is leaving office at year’s end. Wing chose to offer a “state of the county” review to close out her term. “It is my honor to report to you that Barry County is strong financially,” Wing said, pointing to “yet another” balanced budget, thanking the guidance of County Administrator Michael Brown and Deputy County Administrator Luella Dennison. The county has contingency for future emergencies and a strong retention nite for employees and benefits that are better than what most people experience outside of county employment, Wing said. “I have been so privileged and so honored to have worked with all of you for the last four years,” she continued. “It has added a level of ‘busyness* to my schedule that I thought 1 already had under control, being a dairy farmer and a morn ... and then I added commissioner on top of it. “I have been so honored to be your chair for the last two years.” At this point, Wing’s voice broke. She was seated in the commissioners’ chambers at the top of the historic courthouse building, but she was in those chambers alone because of lhe restrictions due to COVID-19. “I could not imagine having a meeting anywhere else but in this chamber for our last meeting,” she said next, struggling to speak. “To have the legacy to be a county leader where my husband served and I fully expect my children to serve, if they choose to stay in Barry County is - I wouldn’t say a dream come true, because there have some bad moments along the last four years - but we have accomplished such a great deal. “We have streamlined county govern­ ment. We have removed the duplication of effort of offices. We have created an open space preservation ordinance. ... We Zoom meetings! Who would have thought of this?” Wing concluded her remarks by telling her board members, “I will miss every* single one of you, regardless of how 1 know you. It has been my distinct honor to serve you. I may be gone for a while, but I’ll be back in some capacity. Thank you for your faith in me. “I will continue to be Barry County’s big­ gest cheerleader.” Wing’s final action as chairwoman was to propose requiring regular monthly statistical reports from each elected official about the duties of their office, quarterly statistical reports about the duties of all county* depart­ ments, and annual reports from appointed board or committee chairmen. Comment from other board members was positive about the concept, but some expressed reluctance to enact the proposal with a new commission coming on board next month. I would like to see this policy adopted so that, moving through the next year, you have this tool to use so you don’t waste time,” Wing said. Commissioner Ben Geiger replied, “I love the spirit of organizing our board, of having consistency and predictability. I’m just not sure monthly statistics are the approach. I’m not sure what metrics are useful.” Commissioner Vivian Conner said, “I think that there are lot of good ideas with this. It would be great to hear from depart­ ment heads, not only elected officials, but those we hire. (But) it should be a choice for lhe new board because it will be something they will be doing.” Conner suggested amending the proposal for next year, when the two new members Catherine Getty in District 2 and Bruce Campbell in District 7 - will be joining the board. Geiger, with support from Commissioner Howard Gibson, agreed to amend the motion so that the proposal would be on the agenda for board to consider. In other action, the commissioners unani­ mously resolved to honor Heather Wing for her dedication and service, extending *s heartfelt thank you to Commissioner Win? for her leadership, service and dedication t Barry County.” n 10 In other business, commissioners - Heard an upda(e from Thomappfe Mnn, Administrator Don Haney. P ^anor .. “RPt.,a,?d foremost.” Haney told ,h. our building project for assisted liviJ? moving forward; we am on track .8 ,s schedule to bid the project in on bid opening m February and h* do a break ground in March or April out ol the ground. So that is look;„ " flX)st "Hopefully, the bids come in lh8 E00tl like to see them and we can We’d under way early next year.” * ^ing �_ , rhutcday. December 17. 2020 — The Hastings Banner - Thursoay. v* 3 New online tool helps gauge COVID-19 nsk IHSWWS Aging pn<L Adult " BUSI Cl -u- - ^lyjuesjgunchesseiyice^ ylth older adults injnind The Aging and Adult Services Agency at Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has announced the launch of CVI9 CheckUp in Michigan - a anonymous, personalized online tool that evaluates someone’s risks associated with COVID-19 . The service is in partnership with Bell Age > CVloChecku^ore"'"''1 s which ..... n w Mh;l"8“n- to nil Michiganders, helps individuals understand their risk based on their life situation and personal behavior, and offer; recommendations to reduce those risks while also connectmg people to services i! needed,” S*r ti r‘Travis, senior deputy director "A »C ^,ln® iind Adult Services Agency. And while this tool is available to all residents, it is specifically designed with older adults - age 60 and over - in mind. Older Michiganders represent 24 percent of Q&A on COVID-19 vaccine ’ Bridge Magazine A COVID-19 vaccine moved much closer to reality last Thursday after an advisory com­ mittee recommended its approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration following a nine-hour hearing. Michigan officials received word last Thursday that the state will receive 250,000 total vaccine doses from Pfizer and Modema. That’s a sliver of what's needed in a slate w here the virus has killed 10.395 Michiganders and infected at least 421.137 as of hist week, but it’s widely viewed as a turning point in the pandemic. Members of an FDA advisory committee voted 17-4. with one abstention, to recom­ mend the vaccine, following debate about its safety and efficacy. Although thc Pfizer vaccine, which was developed in partnership with German-based BioNTech. was fast-tracked, it still needed to meet a high bar for efficacy ’ and the process was required to be “transparent, scientifically sound and data driven," Doran Fink, the FDA’s deputy director of vaccines and related products applications, said in explaining the FDA's emergency use authorization approval process. But other speakers noted there was just two months of data and wondered how’ that can guarantee safely, particularly those who are 75 and older, have HIV. or are vulnerable to severe allergic reactions. They want to know more about thc vaccine’s effect on minorities and on pregnant women. “We really don’t know what short- and long-term harms are given the short duration" of data, said Kim Witczak. a consumer advo­ cate for drug safety. But others argued that the safety and effica­ cy data so far outweighed thc risks of rhe vaccine, especially with a virus that already has killed more than 15 million people world­ wide. , Approval of. a second vaccine, made by Massachusetts-based Modema. could happen Friday. So what does all of this mean in Michigan? The answers, though far from complete, are beginning to take shape. How many doses will be available? Pfizer expects lo supply more than 33 mil­ lion L’.S doses by the end of the year and 100 million for national distribution by spring. According to Pfizer officials, lhe Trump administration in summer passed up a chance to order another 100 million doses. That could slow its distribution to the general public. When w ill I get the vaccine? That depends on your age, underlying health conditions and exposure risk to indi viduals with COVID-19 - and on how well the vaccine supply chain proceeds in lhe com­ ing months. The federal Advisory' Committee on Immunization Practices, part of the CDC, rec­ ommended that health care workers and resi­ dents in long-term care facilities be first in line for vaccines. (Thc committee considers staff in long-term care settings, such as nurs­ ing homes and assisted living centers, as health care workers.) To put that in perspective, there’s an esti­ mated 602.000 health care workers in Michigan. ... Michigan’s 64-page vaccination plan prior­ itizes other vulnerable communities including the elderly, those from racial and ethnic minority groups and tribal communities, those n corrXtional facilities, the homeless, those lending colleges and umvers.ties, those m rural communities and olhcrsMembers of the general public who do not r 11 in o those categories likely won't gel a w -n- for several months - "late winter or vaccine f pr Am()|d Mo„lo iaid )as( into the spn g. )ine discus,jon week sdisease expert, chairs the Monto,aninf^»^ for lhe COVID-19 FDA advisory comma Va^ine'..ill the vaccines be distributed? How will W® ine arrives. dtstnbutton Even after the Anila PatcL will be a l|C^lJ-?Vaccine Task Force, told deputy of t ,eCT,.()rnfI,iuee Thursday. the FDA advisory c |ogislics-he3vy Distribution requiring specialized "dedicated cold . jce f()r example, freezers and Ple» aI about -70 because the vacctne degrees Celsius. entities of no less It's also 'h'PP**‘"ipdlcnge in rural areas than 975 doses - “ dnses of the vacthat can neither store n(jr qulck|y d>scine in specialize1* tribute them. Pa,ls' iS l,eal*h ‘'^reSstriMichigan’s 45 ltK" . c„mlnunity distnalso will play a » be shipped there as bution. as vacctnesJ^.ond (he first phase in the campaign mo''1 , |)Ol)ieS. hospita'sandnu e o(fieer for cX Si X" (| hanl ))ridgt. " is anrmjmous and dries not as ’’'^‘'(hey are infected Ch . araiuio keeping require n name, email address or identifier of consequences n . 4 ..................... 9 CheckUp. Addition. .brough through CV! CVI9 CheckUp. taol^ill help s,a> and Upon completion of the anonymous . nrul health organizations a|u) l,e w^^4*^,i>peop,e questionnaire, CV19 CheckUp immediately g1~‘"'> and Mt delivers a personalized report. The report rC<’n't|uo uirpet populations that are at high be safer anJ healthier a0(l enwe answers questions, such as “How likely am I 7 covn>J< ilrc c',mP'c,el> individual needs'he pandemic. to get COVID-19 or spread it lo others?" “If 1 get COVID-19, how severe would it likely .... be? “Where can 1 find help lo ensure my needs are met during the pandemic?" The individualized approach that defines CV19 Ch^’kHp artificial intelligence CV19 ( heckUp delivers support lo those who m -imlv/e <btt» caCh Pe«on provides by “omnlXg «n °"line Thc 10ofs are hardest hit by CO VID 19. including the and unmet needs lor nc*iiu» more than 2.4 million Michiganders age 60 services, financial support. algorithms are drivenby science and medicine, and older, as well ns those with underlying This project is funded tn part by lhe usinc data front the U-S. C enters for Disease health conditions or compromised immune Michigan Health Endowment Fund. Control and PreveliUon and the World Health systems. The CDC has described these people confinned death'- . j community vaccination it established with lhe HlNl flu pandemic of 2009. OBJECT, continued from page 1 I m not actually concerned about reaching people. We did that with HlNl.” Vail said. I m concerned about multiple different .. < .->■ r; fa kinds of people who have hesitancy about the vaccine. That is the greater work with this vaccine.” Is the vaccine safe? I hat was central to lhe discussion Thursday in trout of the FDA’s advisory' committee, which voted on this question: Do lhe benefits of the Pfizer vaccine outweigh its risks for people 16 and older? “It’s never an issue of whether you know every thing. The question is whether you know enough,” said Dr. Paul Offit, an infectious disease specialist at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. He and others noted throughout the meet­ ing that trials will continue to monitor lhe vaccine. “What we have is clear evidence of the benefit. All wc have on the other side is theo­ retical risk,” Offit said. When will kids get this vaccine? Studies have excluded young children so Recall Gov. Gretchen Whitmer booths were active in Hastings on Sunday (shown far. and it’s not clear how they may react to here) and outside the Grove Street Cafe in Delton on Saturday. the dose amounts recommended for adults. They react differently, in fact, to the virus. In rare cases, children infected with the MDHHS, Barry-Eaton Health District. COVID-19 virus have uniquely developed MDARD. MIOSHA ^Michigan Occupational “I am not aware of a court Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome, or Safety and Health Administration] and Michigan Liquor Control, and the civil reme ­ that has declared the order MIS-C. which can lead to organ failure. Most cases of MIS-C have been reported before lhe dies available to them. invalid or unconstitutional.” But Pratt said that, if criminal prosecution age of 14, according to lhe most recent data is requested, which may be the case if all Barry County Prosecutor by the CDC. “I would predict that, as we go forward, wc other remedies are exhausted, she will review Julie Nakfoor Pratt may well slowly use the vaccines in older all the facts and circumstances and decide if charges are appropriate. children," Monto said last week. As of Wednesday, the Delton businesses But during the Thursday committee hear­ ing,, the concern for these teenagers (was have continued to open up their doors for Ibbetson of Rutland Charter Township and > n apparent, when some* committee members •’ih-perxon dining; • */" -.n »" Aaron Gross of Hastings wrote in a Facebook Some residents who- support that decision post. said they would recommend vaccine approv- 1 came to Grove Street Cafe Saturday to protest al, but only for those 18 and older. At the Hastings event, attendees were the state’s orders.’ Will the vaccine be mandatory? offered free hamburgers and hot dogs as they “We would like (0 thank everyone who gathered in front of the Barry County “No." Robert Gordon, lhe state’s health and human services director, told Michigan came into town to support us over the week­ Courthouse on the chilly Sunday afternoon. end,” Bowen’s Family Dining staff wrote on lawmakers last week. “Whitmer was tofd in no uncertain terms to President-elect Joe Biden gave a similar Facebook earlier this week. “We were over­ work with the Legislature in order to manage whelmed by your generosity and kind words. lhe COVID-19 crisis,’’ Ibbotson and Gross answer last week. That said, it’s not clear whether employers You guys are awesome’” wrote. “She has chosen to defy that order and Similarly, in Hastings Sunday, residents unilaterally push her objectives through the may require the vaccine — much like some health care providers require flu shots of their gathered to voice their opposition to the MDHHS.” employees, or what kind of pushback they’d state's orders and the restrictions placed on Gross and Ibbotson said the protest was citizens. “against a universal unconstitutional mandate face. “This is an assembly of ‘We The People’ that fails to keep in mind the safety and secu­ Further, if approved for children, the COVID vaccine may one day be added to the gathering to protest Whitmer’s unconstitu­ rity of all Michiganders.” Garrett Soldano. a Kalamazoo chiropractor, vaccination lists for schools. That likely won’t tional emergency orders, acting by proxy happen quickly, given that a COVID vaccine through lhe Michigan Department of Health spoke to the Delton gathering Saturday. and Human Services,” protest organizers Joel for children hasn’t been studied. Katherine Henry, an attorney and founder Mil Signs in Hastings along the Barry County Courthouse lawn Sunday express the sentiments of protesters who oppose state government restrictions on private businesses, such as restaurants. of Restore Freedom, spoke in Hastings Sunday. Both offered similar messages, challenging the state’s orders, citing constitutional free­ doms and overstep by state and federal gov­ ernment. “Government cannot act unless we tell them to do so,” Henry said Sunday. “That’s right,” someone yelled from the audience. < । ... “We don’t look to the government to ask what we can and cannot do.” Henry said. “We don’t have to look for a law to see we have rights. Those rights are given to us by Go</, not the governor.” “Life is scary,” she continued, “we’re sup­ posed to rely on God, not the government to fix all our problems. You do not have to fol­ low something that is unconstitutional, and all these orders are unconstitutional." Nakfoor Pratt, however, said the MDHHp order is valid. ’ "Recently. I have been contacted by busi­ nesses and citizens inquiring about tlie MDHHS order and its validity,” Pratt wrote. “As of this writing, I am not aware of a coup that has declared lhe order invalid or uncon­ stitutional.” Are you looking for a career that changes lives? ■ Train now to become an emergency medical technician (EMT)! In less than a year, you can earn a certificate and a State of Michigan EMT license through the Basic EMT Academy at Kellogg Community College. How do I get started? Visitwestmiworks.org/emt/ A West Michigan Worksl staff person will assist you with: DID YOU KNOW? • Kellogg Community College appllcation • FAFSA application • Assess eligibility and apply for other funding opportunities • ’ EMT is one of the top 100 fastest growing, high-demand jobs in • Career coaching and training prep • Job search and employment assistant West Michigan? . Deadline to enroll Is Wednesday, Jan 6; 2°21- may qu3«<y'^^7 scholarshtps of g«nt funding to you complete EMT training at httle to no cost to you? • EMTs in our region earn a median wage of $16-76 per hour? * OL- West Michigan Worksl is a dMsion of Acs oop0'tunltv c">r>lOver/ .- ,Job Center network. ................ available upon request to individuals uuitt 1 °n udcsl Mich,V°n VvnrL /lpr0(Jram an^ a proud partner of the American ° wir/i disabilities, । supportei by state and federalfunds: more details at westmiworks. g °'e �p , page 4 _ Thutsd -(po - Tf* Hast'«»osBanne’ Dec*"**1 '• fc0‘u Did you see At least something’s smiling A year to be remembered 1 rtle bit of joy in their life - whether that means baking M Everyone needs a < or putting a yellow smiley-face balloon on a mail­ cookies, playing tn It P offers a spark of happy to motorists traveling north box. This particular ' pe|ton Even in the midst of a global pandemic, that's on M-43, just sout body and most of us can do: So go ahead and smile behavior <hat won ? mask on|) ’ -with your eyes. (Please ksuj y Do you and corrected remember? Clowning around Banner Nov. 29, 1972 Clowns were all over town Saturday promoting the great events scheduled for Hastings' upcoming Super Saturday. Super Saturday should be great, with special shows at 9:30 and 11 in the morning. Christmas carol singing on the courthouse lawn at 1, and the gigantic Christmas parade at 2 p.m. The clowns here are Martha Panfl (left) and Robin Usborne, handinoou. sweets to Stacey Belson, 5. daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Garth Anderson. Have you met? Nicole Smith lost both her husband and her small business in the span of three months in 2014. Her husband and business partner, Carl Smith, died from a heart attack in February; in May. her business. Tom’s Meat Market, burned and she lost almost everything in the fire. “It was really emotional, but I knew I had to be strong, and I knew that I wanted to rebuild. And, you know, I just leaned on my faith. God was very faithful and walked me through everything," Smith. 51. said. “Still today, I mean. I am here only because of the grace of God. I’m just very thankful.” Smith has spent much of her life in the world of small businesses: growing up in Lasing where her mother and other family members owned party stores, purchasing her first small business — a grocery store in Vermontville — with her husband, and even­ tually taking ownership of Tom’s Meat Market in 1991. Smith knew she wanted to rebuild after the late May 2014 fire, but had no illusions about the challenges rebuilding would pose. “I got lhe call that lhe store was on fire and it was a complete loss.” Smith said. “Everything in the store was gutted. Every cooler was taken out, every shelving unit was taken out and all the equipment had to be removed.” But luckily. Smith wasn’t alone. JIcr insur­ ance agent helped her navigate the rebuilding process, and she worked with SpartanNash to find new vendors and equipment. “I had a local insurance agent ... who was absolutely phenomenal, working with me every' step of the way. They were here the night of the fire," Smith said. And 1 worked with Spartan grocers to help guide me with different vendors and locating equipment. I mean I had really great help. Smith also hud her staff. They stayed by her side, cleaning, painting and doing what­ ever necessary to reopen lhe store. With their collective effort, Tom’s Meat Market reopened just five months later. ’ ov. , 2014. , . Another key to Tom’s Meat Market s quick reopening was community support. Smith said. . f f The .support came. <*«*> ,he fom’ compassion and wordsol encouragemen some coming from Facebook comments and niiy could make comments. Fhey could see Nicole Smith it. And we had so much love and support from our customers and the neighborhood.” Smith said. "We have a lot of customers that are in here every day — sometimes several limes. And so we would hear from them, and they would post comments and encourage­ ment and love and support, and so it was amazing.” Even local government uplifted Smith and helped her successfully through thc rebuild. She recalled giving a presentation on her site plan for (he rebuild to city officials and rec­ ognizing some of them as her customers. ”1 was so nervous. And I presented this rebuild, and my voice was shaking. But I recognized these people silting there — they were customers.” Smith said. ‘ They were so gracious, and they helped me along and, where I couldn’t find words, they found them for me. “Hastings is a community that is unique. It’s a great community for business. Everyone supports local. Council supports local. The boards support local. So 1 can’t say enough about how good the community is here.” Smith has continued to operate Tom’s Market — selling fresh meals, smoked meals, cheese, wine, beer and even Christmas prime rib. along with a full line of groceries, produce, beverages and more —since the rebuild finished six years ago. Weekly spe­ cials can be quickly referenced on the back cover of The Reminder. lhe COVID-19 pandemic made 2020 another challenging year for Smith and her staff. With supply shortages, they struggled to acquire the resources they needed — rice, yeast, toilet paper and more. Of course, keeping staff and customers safe and healthy became another challenge, one with incredi­ bly high stakes. Through the many challenges she’s faced as a small business owner. Smith said mak­ ing people happy and being a part of her customers’ family celebrations makes all the effort worth it. “People are really passionate about food, you know, and about celebrations with fami­ ly. And when we can be a part of that and make it an awesome experience, that s what makes it all worthwhile.” Smith said. "I love making people happy.” For her perseverance in overcoming many difficulties and for providing the community with quality products and senices, Nicole Smith is this week’s Banner Bright Light. Best advice ever received: A few things come to mind. “Surround > ourself with good people.” “When things seem overwhelming, just do one thing at a time - kind of like eat,n? an elephant, you can only take one bite at . ?ever * anything- “ First job: Waiting tables at the age of 16. 'cry good Mit. u Tom’s1'1'"' acvun'I’lisliti>en': Rebuilding What motivates me' M«k>n8 PeoP|c happy, providing a'oualiiy P'oducl for our community, and a great work environment for my employees. biggest challenge: U>s'ne m>' ,huf' band and having m . . how W be a s,n8Ic Each weekuhe0^ ^plofi^ a Person who makes t|)c Bdn,KftP d.ine. Do you know somecm cnmmunit> 1 featured because of volun,"h<> bh?“ |‘i1n-k>'',ng '*r' M>nahty, f1)r th " c‘‘r . c has to u-11 °r ‘‘■'y o'hcr eas oeshc,1 .«•»»'“'» >" S«"d " blN M-43 Highway. ]> "8s Banner' 1 or email new,sr„.j ‘ M* ________ ■' '“igiaphioxr*"'___________ The record books will certainly have a special place for 2020 - and it won’t be tor wonderful memories and joyful experi­ ences. In fact, 2020 was so full of bad news, it seems like bad luck now to even note that it’s almost over. For most of us. 2020 was a recurring news nightmare from fires in the west and hurricanes in the south lo riots in the streets all over. Pile on a rancorous elec­ tion and COVID-19 and you can see why it might have been belter to have just pulled lhe blankets over our heads and never gotten out of bed. That might have been a good strategy to stop the spread of a pandemic unseen by almost all of us alive today. Since February when thc disease ripped through our nation, communities, and families, it has caused 11282 deaths in the Michigan, more than 300.000 in thc country, and more than 1.6 million worldwide. Every day in this country, more people die of COVID-19 than the number wc lost in the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center lowers in New York City Sept. 11,2001. 'Hie ripple effects make this disease even more dreadful. In fear and because of safety, we shut down our nation, which has raised havoc with our nation’s eco­ nomic stability and has killed businesses across the country, lire pandemic’s long, cold fingers have infected nearly every aspect of our society and, regrettably, it has created a long-lasting pox on our democracy. Thc coronavirus pandemic hit the U5. in February, just as the 2020 presidential campaign began with lhe Iowa caucuses and it immediately drove a wedge between the two political parties, which were already deadlocked and gridlocked in bit­ ter war. The two candidates took differing stances in their campaigns. Candidate and former vice president Joe Biden made President Trump’s handling of thc virus his main campaign focus. Trump focused on recovery, therapeutics and vaccines and emphasizing his work of building one of the strongest economics in American his­ tory. The philosophical difference between lhe two parties was readily apparent. Trump underscored states’ rights, allowing governors to form their own plans to com­ bat the disease. Biden, on lhe other hand, believed a national plan with guidelines coming from Washington would have been more effective, lhe final resolution to that debate will have to come later because now. with trucks leaving the Pfizer Pharmaceutical plant in Portage Monday morning loaded with a “miracle’ vaccine, our focus is now on a cure and a renewed future of hope. ’Fhc Trump Administration’s task force dubbed Operation Warp Speed was aptly named because, in an unheard of nine months, the world’s scientists took research into a miraculous “mRNA” sin­ gle strand molecule and incorporated it into a vaccine that is said to be 95 percent effective. Some historians who can’t resist can be forgiven for already declaring this breakthrough as big as the day in Houston’s Rice Stadium in 1962 when President John F. Kennedy announced a plan for man to walk on lhe moon. My hope is that this historical moment will push us beyond our political and cul­ tural differences to a new day of working together. We should turn our attention now to getting as many people vaccinated so we can once again see some normalcy in our lives. The fight now becomes helping each other to climb back to the foundation on which we once stood so proud and con­ fident. What clouds that possibility, though, and what may jettison a new day of coop­ eration is that the Nov. 3 election is still dominating headline news. Particularly concerning to me as a newspaper publish­ er is that national news outlets and social media tech companies continue to sup­ press the news related to interference with Nov. 3 voting and the integrity of the results. Even more distressing is that reporters are not showing the drive to probe, investigate and discover. Nearly 150 million people voted in the election, more voles than in any previous election - despite a national pandemic. Thai’s great news for the nation, but there are still people who say not all voles were legitimate. I hat s troubling to me on two fronts: One, it s a serious charge but, two, and even more concerning, it’s the damag­ ing to a country, which for nearly 250 years, has stood tall around the world on its iaith in democracy. Recently, You'lube announced it would remove all videos, “alleging that wide­ spread fraud or errors changed the out­ come of thc 2020 Presidential Election.” Those raising the questions related lo the integrity of o«r c 5 to which and American every news ‘rs But lei’s citizen should wnnl <• • what wc ask. let’s investigate and learn lo make our next ' sounder. It’s not accej thev love Republicans arc just sore lo>e .•> this country as much as Democrats oo The proceTs. though, the trarhl.on of peaceful transfer of power cannot be undermined in such pub lie u malign what every county clerk and O' judge in America is saying was .1 • Ballot integrity was even front-page news in last week’s Banner when1 Sheriff Dar Ixaf was denied an election challenge against stale officials. The problem for Leaf was he didn’t take thc time to contact Barry County Clerk Pamela Palmer who could have answered any questions of possible fraud in local elections. Leaf could have saved his time and another embarrassing moment for Barry County and to lhe United Slates if he had quietly gone forward just researching how to make future elections even more sound. Thc 13th Circuit Court in Antrim County is currently hearing charges of election machine fraud brought by the Trump campaign and its cyber security consultant Russell Ramsland Jr., co-founder of Allied Security Operations Group. 'Chough the Republican county clerk told a Detroit newspaper that an unofficial result on Election Night was incorrectly reported due to “a human error” and was later cor­ rected, the lawsuit continues to focus on the voting machines themselves. “The system intentionally generates an enor­ mously high number of ballot errors.” said Ramsland Jr. “The errors lead to bulk adjudication with no oversight, no trans­ parency and no audit trail. We conclude that the Dominion Voting system should not be used in Michigan.” This is where we need determined, skilled reporters and researchers to lend some light so all Americans can feel our election system is fair and honest. We need bulldog reporters to cut through dis­ information, misinformation, and just plain misleading rhetoric by incendiary political operatives. But lhe focus should be on all future elections to make them more sound than even this one which lhe president’s own director of homeland security declared “the most secure in U.S. history.” The election is over and we cannot lose our tradition of coming together to strongly address lhe serious problems we face. That doesn’t mean stories should not continue to be investigated. Biden's son. Hunter, for instance, con­ firmed last week that a federal investiga­ tion into his “tax affairs” was underway allegedly showing millions of dollars he received working with foreign companies. Recently, one ot Hunter’s business part­ ners,Tony Bobulinski, was interviewed by the FBI and suggested he had met several times with former Vice President Biden about lhe business arrangements involving Chinese companies. T hese are all serious charges, issues that in all my years in the news business would have drawn immedi­ ate attention from major news outlets. 11 Biden’s dealings bring possible compromises with lhe Chinese Communist Party. z\merica needs to know. Monday, President-elect Biden called for unity but, with more than 74 million people who voted for Trump, that’s going to be a heavy lift, especially when demo­ crats spent the last four years trying lo take down Trump. 1 his is our country', the same country former President Ronald Reagan likened to what he described in 1980 as the America early settlers saw, “awed by what hits gone before, proud of what for them is still ..a shining city on a hill.” Wc have a tradition to maintain for our forefathers while we still stay diligent in holding our leaders accountable. It’s also time for us to also focus not on individu­ als, but on each other. It’s now time to help each other become successful. I hat will make 2021 a much happier new year for us all. �B inriK — »11 • - ■ Accept the truth: Trump lost GUEST EDITORIAL State leaders can act now to mitigate learning losses Amber Arclhino firidyc Magazine As Michigan looks to (urn (he page on one of thc most troubled years in recent memory, a bright spot is emerging as thc governor and legislative leaders have expressed interest in an immediate funding package — to be passed as quickly ns this month — that helps address some of the devastating impacts of COVID-19 pandemic on Michigan's students and families. Their swift passage of a supplemental bud­ get bill is critical, as the pandemic has hit Michigan's students particularly hard. And for many students and families who were already terribly under-resourced and underserved when COVID-19 forced schools to close in March — including Black and Brown students. English learners, student with disabilities, students from low-income backgrounds and those in both urban and rural communities — the pandemic is expected to exacerbate longstanding opportunity and learning gaps. Indeed, national analyses suggest such gaps could grow by 15 percent to 20 percent across the country. In a report by McKinsey & Co., for example, school closures may result in Black students falling behind by 103 months, Hispanic students by 9.2 months, and low-in­ come students by more than a year. To ensure that Michigan’s vulnerable stu­ dents and families receive the support they need and deserve — and Michigan’s economy is well-positioned to rebound and thrive again both in the near and longer-term — wc urge Michigan leaders to invest immediately in the most effective, highest leverage research­ based strategies to begin to address these troubling inequities in three immediate ways: Extended leaming/summer school pro­ grams Without effective strategics that squarely address learning loss for Michigan’s most vulnerable students could endure for years — orcven a lifetime. Mitigating this tragedy will necessitate intense and immediate support to help students not only recover but accelerate learning. In a tight budget environment and faltering economy, it is even most critical that lhe investments that Michigan make are the most proven research-based strategics to dramati­ cally lift student learning. High-quality, vol­ untary' multi-week summer learning pro­ grams, particularly those that leverage the expertise of effective, experienced educators, are especially proven at demonstrating signif­ icant academic gains in reading and math. An investment in such learning opportuni­ ties this summer would provide students with an opportunity to recover instructional time and critical skills before the beginning of the 2021-22 school year. To ensure such learning opportunities are safe, Michigan should sup­ port public schools’ efforts to offer such pro­ gramming following appropriate protocols such as doing it outdoors and socially dis­ tanced. To propel forward Michigan's educational recovery process, investment and planning are needed now, including investments that ensure extended learning opportunities arc available for Michigan's most vulnerable stu­ dents over lhe summer. No-cost remedial coursework l or current high school students who are preparing to transition to post-secondary opportunities. COVID-19 learning disrup­ tions could prove particularly harmful — and expensive. Data from before the pandemic shows the remediation rate for Michigan’s poorest dis­ tricts was already over two and a half times higher than the rate for the wealthiest dis­ tricts. Students who fall behind may take longer to obtain their degree - and could be less likely to graduate. I he expense of missing important course­ work during the pandemic should not threaten Michigan students’ opportunities to succeed in college and beyond. We urge state leaders to fully fund the cost of post-secondary reme­ diation at Michigan community colleges for these seniors and juniors so that the impact of this crisis won’t further widen the gaps in enrollment and attainment. Closing the digital divide Across the state, access to digital devices needed lo continue learning and reliable broadband have varied greatly. Lack of digi­ tal access has disproportionately affected Michigan’s students of color, students from low-income backgrounds and students in rural communities, according to a 2020 analysis by lhe Education Trust-Midwest. This uneven digital access builds upon the challenges and inequities millions of American children faced even before lhe pandemic in accessing online resources to complete home­ work assignments, improving digital literacy skills and continuing or accelerating their learning at home. Despite local efforts to address gaps in access to devices and internet, many students remain without digital access, leaving many without the resources to continue their learn­ ing, especially in rural and urban communi­ ties. State leadership and investment is now needed to address the digital divide and pro­ vide families with ongoing technical support to use devices and engage in lhe new learning platforms and applications. The role of state leadership 'Hie challenge of educational recovery from COVID-19 is not just an issue for individual student’s futures. It’s an issue for Michigan’s economic recovery and success as well. As a state, we need to make that recovery process a lop priority. Now is the time for that process to begin — and for state leaders to fully invest in it. Amber Arellano is executive director of The Education Trust-Midwest. (Write Us A Letter: -dj® • What Christmas really means . . I ,re af I wonder 1>°* n,‘,n> <hmk about what «isfor:Tl s'is for the star !ha* sl,l,u’n «> brichi A t‘ for All He stands for. S means Shepherds came I h.’t why wc have C hn-.unas Day If you wont to learn more, gu co a church tha; prca< hes the Bible - nr to understand more, go arid lx Mire lo take your family The little one. need to know and b-* able to choose the devji or God All need to know. T is for Three«men. they w|!o travdc<| Arthur (ButchJ Briseno. Lake Odessa li,Misfortl'<--‘Ma"!:cr"l,««l>--hy Fight policy that precludes First Amendment rights To the editor My name is J°e« Ibbotson. I started thc Facebook gr(^uP Local Government Accountability Forum m an effort to not only keep thc people ol Barry County informed of local issues, but also to give them a channel in which the) could debate issues and. ultimate­ ly, direct local government on how to best serve the people. As many arc aware, we held a peaceful assembly, or protest, in front of the court­ house this past Sunday. This protest was organized by a small group of people who represent lhe typical sample you might have of four random indi­ viduals in Barry C ounty: truck driver, a bottle machine mechanic, a former U.S. Marine, and a common laborer. We had absolutely no collective experience in hosting a protest. In fact, two of us (myself included) had never attended one. So we did what most might assume would be the first thing to do, and that is call the county and see what they would request of us to hold one. To cut lo the chase, lhe biggest requirement that we were told county policy dictated is that we had to purchase an insurance policy that would cover Utility and possible dam­ age to buildings ^Kiibthircs at the courthouse grounds 1 had assumed that would be the case since I remember it being a hurdle for an indi­ vidual who wanted to hold a protest last sum­ mer. I had a discussion with our small group on this issue and relayed to them one thing that bothered me about the .attempted protest last summer and that was, even though 1 was not in full agreement with lhe premise behind that protest, I thought it was a shame that the orga­ nizer was told he needed insurance to practice his First Amendment rights. We had a careful discussion about this and chose to respectfully decline the county's request to purchase this policy, not because we lacked the wherewithal to purchase the policy, but because of principle. Wc do net need insurance at lhe voting booth. We do nor need insurance to practice our Second Amendment to fire our guns. So why would we need insurance to exercise our First Amendment rights? Our decision to NOT purchase insurance and challenge that count) policy was as criti­ cal to our protest as what we were protesting I understood that there would likely be repercussions, yet this decision was made to not only protect my rights as granted in both the U S. Constitution and the Michigan Constitution, but the rights of the individual who attempted to have a protest last summer as well. I was not only mortified at the public back­ lash and hate he received; I was appalled that the county policy had. in effect, commercial­ ized his rights as if he was going to sell trin­ kets on the courthouse lawn as a profit ven­ ture. Our event went flawlessly; the speakers were on point; wc served 158 burgers and shy of 200 hot dogs, free to those who attended. We left the grounds of thc courthouse cleaner than when we arrived, and we took a stand for thc First Amendment. for WE THE PEOPLE of all political ideologies. If you were the person who tried to orga­ nize the event last summer, I hope you read this. This event was held for you - more than anyone else. As for the county policy, there have been several discussions that seem to lead down a path that will make it possible for people like you to exercise your rights in a way that both constitutions prescribe. And I can sleep well knowing that we accomplished that - and so much more. Joel Ibbotson. Rutland Township Certainty some problems c-ame up. Veters might have messed up ±e:r bulxc; they .-ri.zpr have had a question. Bcxrr an eiecricr work­ er tried to answer any cixstiers or help t.te voter, he or she would cal- another work er of the opposite parry to assist. was all ubwe board. For anyone to insinuate ’.bar there *as fraud is an insult to e*> ery pell worker ri Bar''County. So. I challenge you.letter wrier, /you m so convinced of fraud and deceit. take -jkr election training and beevrre xr c.evraw worker. Or take trainmg ard becoroe ar elec­ tion challenger. This election was fair, as proved by rxvuaft in several states. It is interesting char the cciy states where election fraud w is cajimedwere­ states that Trump lost. If fraud w x< so perva­ sive. doesn't it seem possible thar :: o.xjjd have happened in states that he woe? My final comment to this User wr.:er “that if you can assume, without evsJesar. that fraud happened in each of seven! then I can state (or assume', with ev^Senoe. that no fraud existed.” Stand up for democracy and the peacero’. transfer of power. Betsx The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks" will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. . “Crossfire" letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person pec month. . We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. The Hastings BdtnilCr Demoted to the Interests o/ Barry County since 1856 Pu^shedby . N Hastings Banner, Inc. A Division of J-Ad Graphics Inc. m.43 Highway • Phono: (269) 945-9554 • Fax; (269) 945-5192 J \cC releases: news@j-adgraphics.com • Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com No ws and ' ___________ Hastnp Keep your friends and relatives informed and up lo date with all the local news from Barry County. Send them... The Hastings BANNER 269-945-9554 I Lcdi^n jer y woncikOM NO MORE GUTTER CLEANING, Or your money . ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • Publisher & CEO Hank SCP0UUrin9 Rebecca KatJiyMa^e f ‘ £d.lor) P/ ; Bret; Brenief Luke Froncheck Sophie Bales Greg Chandler Taylor Owens CUss/’ied ach acsepu/1 Monliy through Friday, B.30 a m. to 500 pin Scott Ommen Mike Gilmore are proud to announce their 50th Anniversary on December 19th. BACK GUARANTEED! We will be celebrating at home - Alone! erry Christmas IlanvieK MICHAEL KINNEY PLUMBING Licensed Master Plumber Licensed Journeyman Plumber Neiroe!’.nMnK'lion* remodel, repair, drain cleaning. ‘RADFORD WHITE WAI ER HEATERS unu-e (269) 948-2248 ------ ^hilt(269) 838-5112 (l< tint at I n.m. (hrlstinds he and Vess Vear's he 'J 'Prajf Tor Our Ration 'h QUESTIONS: ASK US-. Sinter 218 E StMwSt Hast 0P£N M- Asy Si! 8unie Day Installation Frederic and Mary Angor To subscribe, call us at: 1811(1376 & Insured • 945-9673 pc 9 i.-f* 9 £•’" ______Hulst Cleaners Pick-Up Station A AA " A NA Ty Greenfield Jennie Yonker Subscription Rates: $52 per year in Barry County SCO per year in adjoining counties $65 per year elsewhere POSTMASTER Sund udless change P.O Bax 1E3 Ife ctr, Ml 47058 01M Svccnd CteM l-’c' t w P ski j Ratings. Ml 49053 call 269-945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classified ads �17. 2020 - ’•* HasW eann*r f-ages — Bill Cotant to celebrate 90th birthday Christina Marie Harris, Freeport and Wayne Kenneth Bordeau. Freeport Ashly Sierra Wilber. Nashville and Samuel ('lark Thompson. Nashville Timothy Ixe Schoonard. Delton and Karla Kay Crisp, Kalamazoo Michelle Lee Welch. Bellevue and George Paul Luke, Spring Lake Christian William Shonkwiler, Naperville. IL and Katherine Sperry Ballew. Chicago, II Lindsay Renee Rinehart, Hickory Comers and Jaime Matthew Nutter. Hickory Comers James Lee Grammatico, Shelbyville, and Sarah Mae Bixler, Shelbyville Pf’iie/ Ro/a„a ParW_. Barbara Joan Brunck Bill Cotant. of Hastings, will celebrate his 90th birthday on December 22. Cards may be sent to: Bill Count. 2712 S M-37 Hwy, Hastings. Mi 49058. Thank you tor helping us celebrate him! .**•... Jggf Barry County Road Commissioners of Barry County The Barry County Road Commission will hold a Virtual/Electronic Public Hearing on the proposed 2021 Budget. In accordance with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ recent COVID Emergency Order and in accordance with the Open Meetings Act, as amended, the public hearing will be conducted electronically at 7:30 A.M. on December 31,2020. Citizens wanting to participate in the meeting may do so via Zoom at: Jlttpsr/Zzooin, usfi/93524638591 ?nwd^WHI 1 UE5iiUEhZNGJxYiM5 Y3dlcUo4Zz09 Meeting ID 935 2463 8591 Passcode: BarryCRC Dial by your location +1 929 205 6099 +1 301 715 8592 +1 312 626 6799 +1 669 900 6833 +1 253 215 8782 +1 346 248 7799 US US US US US US (New York) (Washington D.C) (Chicago) (San Jose) (Tacoma) (Houston) Meeting ID: 935 2463 8591 Passcode: 47881766 •’ . , A copy of the proposed budget is available for inspection by requesting a copy from the Barry County Road Commission at 269-945-3449. Worship Together ...at the church of your choice ~ Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "We Exist To Be An Expression Of Who Jesus Is To The World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy.. P.O. Box 8. Hastings. Telephone 269­ 945-9121. Email haslfmc^ ginziilA'i’JD. Website: www. hi? sliagsfft3Uiuih.Qdht.com. Pastor Brian Teed, Assistant Pastor Emma Miller, Worship Director, Martha Stoetzel. Sunday Morning Worship: 9.un and 10:30 ;im. Due to the current health crisis, our nursery is remains closed. Weekly activity bags forchilren are available in lhe 9 a.ni. service and Kid's Church is available in our 10:30 service. Our worship center is set up tor social distancing. Aftermath Student Ministries: Sunday 6 p.m. ST. ROSE OE LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. 269-945­ 4246 Pastor Father .Stephan Philip Mass 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Mass 8 and 11 a in. Sunday. This information on HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 309 E. Woodlawn. Hastings. Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages*. 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Family Night 6:30-8 p.m.. Kids 4 Truth (Children Kindergarten-5th Grade), 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer, (all Church Office 948-8004 for information. 301 E State Rd., P.O. Box 273. Hastings, MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948­ 0900. Website: www.lifegatecc. com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheel­ chair accessible and elevator. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Youth activities: call for information. 3185 N. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Services: Sunday, 9: 45 a.m. CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328 N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a m Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616 690-8609. PLEASANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road. Dowling. MI 49050. Pastor. Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Service: 10 a.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd.. P.O. Box 765. (comer of Milo Rd. & S M­ 43). Delton, Ml 49046. Pastor Roger Claypool. (517) 204­ 9390. Sunday Worship Service 10: 30 lo 11:30am, Nursery and Children's Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study undprajer time 6:30 to 7:30 pm worship seme is provided by The Hastings Banner, die churches and these locu[ businwesj_ _ _ _ _ _ Hmm I ineI 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 14178269 Hastings, Ml 49058. 945-4700 L/J.*1 J 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 OnnK-l Ro|llnd Parker, -o- , . of Middleville, went to be with his Lord on Friday, December 11 2(P0. Dan was born on* September 7. 1947 in Muskegon to Rollo and MW (Brown) Parker. His faith in Christ was the driving force in his life. He and his wife. Linda, were longtime members of Lutheran Church, and played a pivotal part in starting a mission church in Middleville that first met in the TK Middle School Cafeteria. In 1980. Dan started the Christian Membership Directory, with a desire to connect Christians front all denominational backgrounds to each other. Dan loved his community and was a very active member of various boards^such as the Lincoln Meadow Housing Commission board. Middleville village council, the lliornapple-Kellogg school board for 12 years (serving as past president), lhe Middleville Rotary Club ___ f, (where he also served as president), and the zoning lx>ard of appeals. lie was proud io be a county commissioner for six years and was involved in man} Parks and Recreation initiatives. Most recently. Dan was excited to be the Hiornapple Township Supervisor-elect. He was part of the committee dint started varsity soccer at TKHS and he coached all three of his boys in AYSO. As a young man. he was a camp counselor ( at Camp PendalogX' in Muskegon and continued that tradition al Father and Son camp with both his sons and grandsons. Dan was also known for his love of ail people. He was quick (o offer a smile or a joke. He often would go lhe extra mile for people that others had overlooked. Dan will be dearly missed by his loving w ife. Linda (Tennant) Parker; children. Scott (Moon) Parker. Josh (Ivanna) Parker, Maria (Matt) Hall. Dan (I-aura) Parker; grandchildren, Morgan Hall. Isaiah Parker, Judah Parker. Shepherd Parker, Uriah Parker. Isabel Hall, Viggo Parker. Logan Hall, Elijah Parker. Charlotte Parker. Am) Parker, Madelyn Parker. Evelyn Parker, Felicia Parker, sisters, Colleen (Tom) Smith. Vicki (Jacobus) Maas and several nieces. Dan was preceded in death by his parents. Mary and Rollo Parker. Dan was a consummate salesman, if he loved something or found a good deal be would be sure to let you know about it. He was known for his love of people, a good joke and ready smile. He did things big- big house, big dog. big parties, big dreams. He rooted for the underdog and always strived to leave things better than what they were when he arrived. He left us too soon, but we are all better for having had him in our lives. A private funeral service will be held on [hursday, December 17 . 2020, and lhe family invites you to join them via Facebook L'vestrcam at 11:00 A.M. c Memorial donations may be inade lo Sl: Lutheran Church. Village of Middleville, Middleville RoMO- anl th ueedi, of Ihe famil 1>|c.ise visit bee eryotVbfuneralxo’m to share a memo>y or leave a condolence message lor D‘,n s family. Barbara Brunck, age 94. went to be with the Ix>rd on Wednesday. December 9. 2020 at Carveth Village. Middleville. She was bom on November 9. 1926 in Lancaster, NY, soon after her family moved to the U.S. from Canada. She was the daughter of James Beatty Whittaker and Vella (Martyn) Whittaker. She graduated from Depew (NY) High School, and was employed as a secretary in her early adult years before becoming a homemaker and a loving mom to her two children, her favorite job of all. Barbara married Harold (Harry) William Bninck on September 6, 1947 in Town Line, New York and celebrated 62 years of marriage. They lived in multiple locations in Pennsylvania, Ohio. and Michigan. Together they enjoyed traveling, celebrating anniversaries on Mackinac Island, and making family memories at Allegany State Park. NY, and Rose Lake, ML They developed close friendships with Vietnamese families whom they assisted in adapting to life in the U.S. Barbara was a member of several Lutheran churches and in later years received pastoral care through First Presbyterian Church in Hastings. She loved the Lord and spent her life serving others. She most enjoyed spending quality time with her family and also gardening, quilting, making dollhouse miniatures, and caring for their dogs. Barb was an avid and excellent letter writer who stayed in contact with all her family, including Canadian relatives with whom she had little in-person contact, but developed close bonds through emails. She was a patriotic American with pride in her Canadian heritage. She was always happy to have a cup of tea with anyone who visited. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Ruth L. Mikolin and Norma Branden; brother, Gerald Whittaker, and son. Terence K. Brunck. She is survived by her daughter, Patricia (Eldon) Cassell, Hastings; grandchildren. Matthew- (Donna) Cassell. Ann Arbor. Emily (James) Dixon, Grand Rapids, and Elizabeth (Grant) Webster, Caledonia; and great­ grandchildren, Bradley and Marcus Dixon. Leo, Mila, and Evie Webster, and Griffin and Madeline Cassell; nephews, Thomas (Linda) Branden. Depew-. NY. James (Michelle) Branden. Alden, NY. and Robert (Sharon) Meyer, Starkville, MS; nieces, Diane McIntosh, Elkhart, IN. and Lynn Glasscock, Portales, NM; and cousins. Rowland (Sharron) Martyn, Murillo, Ontario and Helen (Terry) Atkinson. LeDuc, Alberta. Barb’s family is grateful for the loving care provided for her by all thc staff at Carveth Village. Interim Hospice, and Drs. Paul DeWitt and David Parker. A family memorial service w ill be held in lhe spring and burial will be at Lancaster Rural Cemetery. Lancaster, NY. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave online condolences visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. Position Opening 152165 The Barn, n .. faualization Department is now accepting anniiratbounty ,irTie Equalization Data Entry Clerk. The Clerk win T °r a Pdepartnient with Enterin9 sales data entry and clerical dut? pStidJrequirements include at least a high school dinlnmi ’ H0S r pxpenence with data processing and some knowiad °ne year descriptions and the property tax system, and muslV ProP'mra|li ,,pisl wilh h'9h lvp'"9 Prafcten« 29 hours aU«Vk.Vh:SaP»'a'pte”3-95- piea letter, and resume to: Tim Vandermark, Directa SR.nd a pqiialization>220 Wesl Sta,e Street Hastings, Ml 490Rn rry Countatiort and *ob description is available at www. wn'±9 Tim vande,n,a,K 517-M3-410’' P-aiMtw .-.-gy D,c-2,12020 by 8 Wendell Day. age 87, of Hastings, left this life and went to his heavenly home on December 8.2020. Wendell Day was bom to Leo and Zana (Beach) Day on March 14, 1933. He was a proud graduate of Nashville High School. On July 23. 1953 he married Ruthanne (Hcrzel) Kauffman. Wendell and Ruthanne were married for 25 years. Wendell served in the US Army during the Korean War. Wendell worked for his brother-in-law. Vem Wheeler, as a mechanic, and in the late-1950s Wendell worked as a pit crew-member for Gordon Johncock racing team, who later went on to win the Indianapolis-500 in 1973 and 1982. He was also a mechanic al Eckert’s Auto Sales, and then became a bus garage mechanic at Hastings Area Schools, retiring in 1995. On June 2. 1978 Wendell married Janet Claypool, and (hey enjoyed 42 years together. Wendell was a longtime member of the Masons, serving his chapter’s Secretary. He was a faithful member of the Green Street First United Methodist Church of Hastings where he served as a Trustee for 25 years. Wendell enjoyed NASCAR, and helping others, spending lime cutting wood and snowplowing neighbors’ driveways. He loved dogs, especially Jack Russells. Wendell was preceded in death by his parents, and his siblings: Elaine (Joseph) Butinc; Duane (Marion) Day. and Eloise (Vem) Wheeler, niece, Jeanette Day, and stepdaughter, Vickie, and his beloved cousin, Stuart Day. Wendell is survived by his wife. Janet; his children. Joyce Biela, Paul (Susan) Day. and Karen (Ray) Kenyon; beloved grandchildren. Jenna Biela, Nick Kenyon (fiancee, Rachael Harris); stepdaughters. Kathy. Sherri, and Laura Jane; Janet’s twin sister. Janette; his nieces, Nancy (Rod) and Mary (Lew); and nephews, Tom (Diane). Mike (Lainie), Mark (Denise), and Steve, and many other extended family members. His family is grateful for the help of Wendell’s neighbors, the Hospice workers, and lhe prayers of his church family. Memorial contributions can be made to thc Hastings Food Bank al Green Street Church, https://www.barrycf.org/funds/ hastings-food-pantry-fund/, Barry Community Foundation. 231 S Broadway, Hastings, Ml 49058. Funeral sen ices were held at lhe Green Street United Methodist Church, 209 W. Green Street; Hastings, on Sunday, Dec. 13. 2020. The sen ice was livestreamed and can be viewed al www.facebook.com/ GirrbachFunernlHome. A Facebook Account is not needed lo view the service. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhomc.net. Friday’s power outage caused by fallen tree Luke Froncheck 5 Stajf Writer Thirty-six Hastings Consumers Energy customers lost power Frida} exening. /X downed tree struck a power line shortly after 5 p.m.. disrupting service in Hastings. Terry DcDocs, senior public information director with Consumers Energy. J4U^ Tuesday. Several residents reported power outage** ‘ Friday evening as crews worked to restore’ • power. Traffic lights on North Broadw ay and Michigan Avenue were affected, as well 8* homes and businesses along those and some neighboring streets. I he outage lasted until 8:37 p m. and affected customers on Slate. High. Jefferson and Church Streets. �The Hastings Banner - Thu-sday. December 17. 2020 - . rutland CHARTER TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ORDINANCE-SU-gMinAL -rue PHARTER township of TO. THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF Mrr„c^rn PERSONS RUTLAND,BARRY COUNTY. MICHIGAN. AND ANY OTHER INTEHcoi c hn-Atc) v/as introduced PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that proposed Ord-nance #2021-176 appended no. first reading by the Rutland Charter Township Board a! its December 9. 2020 m « J This proposed ordinance will bo considered for adoption by the Township Board' regular meeting on January 13. 2021 commencing at 7 00 p m. at the Charter iga may bo held as an electronic moetmg In accordance with any appl cable State Erne g Township policy relating to the Covid-19 pandemic and public gatherings). y Qrcjer or ■ Rutland Charter Township will provide necossery reasonable auxiliary aids and serv'^s' signers for the hoanng Impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at tne -- ' 9to Individuals with disabilities a! the meeting hearing upon seven (7) days' nodee to Rutiano ' ' Township. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary ads or services shoo’d contact the ro.v s .*p n. warren. age 78, of Rutland To"nshiP’ d * »txl * * *on December II. 2020 m Rockford. S^e * *was b°m April 26. 1942 in Deckerville, thc daughter of the late Arthur and Hazel Armstrong. She married John R Warren on August 7. 1965 in Port Huron. n preeedcd_Beverly in death on August J) 16 after 51 years of marriage. I tastings was considered their hometown after moving in 1976. * In September 2016, she became a resident of StoryPoint Rockford Retirement Living Community where she lived and met many new friends and received outstanding care and support from the stall. She grew up in Port Huron. Beverly graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a bachelor of science degree and became an ASCP registered medical technologist. She was involved with many Hastings community activities and served on the Charlton Park Board, Food Chairman for Summerfest, Hastings Chamber Board. Economic Development and the Rutland Charter Township Planning Commission. She also served on the Joint Planning Committee between the City of Hastings, Hastings Township, Barry' County and Rutland Township. She enjoyed various hobbies, including traveling, baking, reading, quilting, knitting and drawing; in particular pen and ink work. She is survived by her two daughters. Mr. and Mrs. James (Natasha) Bums of Rockford, and Mr. and Mrs. David (Alexandra) Thibeault of Flushing. Her grandchildren Emily (Jeremiah) Brown, Owen Thibeault. Joel Bums, and Daniel Bums. Also, several nieces and nephews and sister-in-law. Mary lin Armstrong. In addition to her parents and husband. Beverly was preceded in death by her siblings. Al Armstrong of Oxford, Barbara (Dwayne) Wilber of Richmond, and Don (Claudette) Armstrong of Port Huron. A celebration of life will be held at the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings on Friday. Dec. 18, 2020 from 3 to 4 p.m.. The service will be livestreamed and can be viewed at www.facebook.com/GirrbachFuneralHome at 3:30 p.m. A Facebook Account is not needed to view lhe service. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to: Green Gables Haven Community Shelter or Hastings Public Library. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. Karen Bethel (Sawdy) Lehman, age 63, of Hastings, entered eternity on December 13, 2020. She was bom May 19. 1957, the daughter of Fredrick Raymond and Doris June (Mote) Sawdy. Karen loved and lived for her Lord each and every day. She obtained a special childlike faith and was never afraid to share those beliefs with everyone she knew. Her family was lhe most important thing in her life, next lo her God. She loved supporting people that were going through challenging times, even though she had many of her own. Karen always pul others first, often putting her needs last. She worked as General Manager for Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, before retiring in 2000. due to health issues. She loved the Detroit Tigers and fishing. She spent a lot of lime over the years volunteering for Mackenzie’s Animal Sanctuary and her genuine love of dogs were a big part of that. After retirement, she loved crafting, card making, and gardening. Karen was loved by so many people, because she gave of her love so freely. She will be missed by all!’ Preceding her in death were her parents, and her father-in-law. Harold Lehman. Karen is survived by her husband, Mark Lehman; sons, Daniel (Tiffany) Lehman. Christopher (Blythe) Lehman. RJ (Shawnee) Williams; grandsons Ethan (Susana) McMahon, Mathew Lehman, Jordan Shirey, great-grandson Liam McMahon; sister, JoAnne (Merle) Emery'; brothers. David (Anne) Sawdy, Steven (Tanya) Sawdy; mother-in-law. Jean Lehman; brothers-inlaw. Jeff (Jan) Lehman, Gary Lehman. Paul (Kathie) Lehman, many nieces and nephews, as well as several great nieces and nephews, who were a very important part of her life. Private interment at Campbell Township Cemetery in Clarksville. A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu flowers, donations may be made to Mackenzie’s /Xnimal Sanctuary' 8935 Thompson Rd.. Lake Odessa. MI 48849. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhorne.net. Donna Man? passed •wav after «**!* "Ilh <°'id on December 5. j * Iovin8 wife, mother and grat«lnrj.?“>*ays strived tomakeeverjoneel- hfelxuer Donna was bom J > • • IM4. She was a graduate of Sch.xtl and Kellogg Cotnmuntiy Ci Ikge she inarrie(1 the love of her life-';>r'“ Barry McGuire on September 20- l/*6b * -* *throughout * their lite together. T,l'c? *n a number of places across the 1111 \>ta,es along with Malaysia. Indonesia and Thailand. Their love of travel often led them tn Australia, Bali, and other exotic places. During her career, she was a nurse at the University of Michigan Hospital, University of Utah Hospital, and Michigan Pain Consultants. She loved being at home on Gun Lake where she entertained and always welcomed everyone with her open heart and big hugs. She was preceded in death by her father, Albert Steeby; mother. Cecil Stine SteebyArehart; stepfather, Chet Arehart, and sister, Alice (Steeby-Arehart) Kroft. She is survived by her husband of 54 years. Charles Barry* McGuire; sons, Paul McGuire (Laurie Sumrall McGuire); granddaughter, Gretchen, and Michael (Mickey) McGuire (Michael Starkey); brothers. David (Anona) Steeby. Richard (Ann) Steeby. Charlie (Jean) Steeby, and twin brother, Don (Marcia) Steeby; brother­ in-law, Pat (Linda) McGuire; many nieces, nephews and extended family . A celebration of life will be held al a later date. In lieu of flowers, her wishes were to have donations sent to the charity of one’s choice. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, Hastings, Michigan. To leave online condolences vigit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. Township Attorney format note—this proposed ordinance is prepared in -legislative format . content proposed to bo deleted Is shown lined-through, no// content proposed to be added is shown in bold typo CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF RUTLAND BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN ORDINANCE NO. 2021-176 ADOPTED: EFFECTIVE: An Ordinance to amend various sections of Chapter 220 (Zoning) of the Rutland Charter Township Codo o! ordinances perta.ning to special land uses in the AG/0S Agncu'tura’/Open Space preservation District, and temporary uso of a recreation veh«cfo as a dwelling THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF RUTLAND BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN ORDAINS: SECI10NJ, AMENDMENT. 0E § 22Q:2tZ (DEFINITIONS) § 220-2-2 ol the Rutland Charter Township Code (Definitions) is hereby amended to add a definition for the term ‘Rural Retreat" reading as follows "RURAL RETREAT — A facility owned and operated by a non-govemmental entity for the purpose of providing a secluded rural sotting In which Indoor and/or outdoor programs and activities aro offered for the physical relaxation and/or spiritual renewal of individuals, families, or other affiliated groups of people. This land use may Include, for registered participants, temporary lodging accommodations and food-beverage services, and educational, recreation­ al, and therapeutic programs and activities. This land use may also include a year-round or seasonal residence for a manager-caretaker of the facility.” SEGI1QNJ2 AMENDMENT JDEJ_22(L4r3J.SPEClALJLANDJUSES.JbLAGZQS_AGRlCULTJURAUDREN.SRACE. RRESEByATlONJDlSIRlCT) § 220-4-3 of the Rutland Charter Township Code (Special Land Uses in AG/OS Agncultural/Open Space Preservation District) is hereby amended to re-letter existing subsection W of same to be subsection X, and add a new subsection W reading as follows; "W. SECTIONS AMENI^!ENILQEA^CL17^L{IEMRQBARYAlSES^)BuSIRUDIilBES_HEQUlBlN5LZQNlNG_ ADMlNlSTBATQaAUTHORlZADON) § 220-17-3 of the Rutland Charter Township Code (Temporary Uses or Structures Requiring Zoning Administrator Authorization) is hereby amended to revise existing subsection C of same to read as follows. feasWOCHJOO-^quefe-leefr^nd-haYtng-ftmntrtg-wfttef-end-sewege-feetHjes?—Thts-aeciton ehaH-not-be-eonetrtred-to^ermiHong-iefm-oeevpancy^f-reefealJon-vehx^ee^fwnobtle-home pafkiK^el9ewhefet-end--sha‘Falsc>-not- be-construed fo-a'iow -a-campground except-es-provrded-t'Ythtachepter^ *'C. hair is on fire” instructions Temporary occupancy of recreation vehicle as a dwelling. Upon application on such form as the Township may prescribe the Zoning Administrator may issue a zoning compliance permit for one recreation vehicle to bo temporarily occupied as a dwelling on a lot in any district where single family dwelling Is a designated permitted use. In the circumstances of subsection 1 and subsection 2 herein: 1. Where the recreation vehicle Is proposed to be occupied for temporary non-commerclal purposes associated with recreational activities on the subject property, or for personal visitation by tho occupants with the occupant of the permanent dwelling on tho subject property, sub­ ject to the following terms and conditions: a. Tho recreation vehicle shall not be leased or rented to tho occupants for any form of monetary compensation or other non-monetary consideration. No need to find joy, only a need to notice it all around The Hastings Reminder sent out a call for “joy” recently, wanting readers to share how they, their families and friends find joy. I’m pretty lucky overall. I don’t have to go hunting for joy. It is there all the time. I just have to notice it. Sports bring me joy. That s kind of the whole point right? Sure, sometimes competi­ tion is the focus but it is because that competi­ tion brings joy. . A month ago there was joy to be had in the high school sports season. l he Iasi football game 1 was able to allend. the Thornapple Kellogg foolball players gazed out onto Memorial Field in one direenon wh k cheerleaders shouted up at their bundled up parents in lhe otherdireenon. here is j< y ina senior running back like / <-x onnv• ■ a toss from his QB then setting h.s s,git.down field to throw where he finds It s Cole Shoobridge running al alone There was joy in the touchdown celebration to I II . Lions aren’t going to win the Su|x?r Bowl. and even joy when those same seniors hugged There is joy in Matthew Stafford dancing their coa^s before ieavmg a ^uhool around thc pocket and waving his left arm for a rookie wide receiver lo go deep, and then foolball stadium as a var.si y I J that rook Quintez Cephus hauling in his first final lime. •« woarini’ a NFL touchdown reception as the ball floats Uere is joy in over lhe hands of a pair of Chicago Bears. mask or not. and studying t ()f I here is joy in your son asking you lo go SX OTiormX Ma'radith throw the football outside after watching a SS W * nX play like that. T here is a little bit of joy in sitting in front McKenzie Wells and All. 1 ‘ of the computer screen and gripping the seams themselves fired up for another set mt of the baseball I picked up under lhe bleachers tournament. . .. M.ircukaili>. m Mulcahy Stadium during an Alaska Baseball I here is joy in i'*eC,n * sWini jacket, league game between the Glacier Pilots and covered in her swim S*1.1 ()j s|iouting and the Hues a few summers ago. T here is joy in sledding down the hill in the leaning over thc edge of B v I Sophie dapping as she cheers on her s.ster b I backyard wearing the Florida Panthers jersey I between her own races. Detroit Lions got al a game on my honeymoon 15 yeais ago, I can’t promise you the ,oll any and doing that with thc kids that followed. head coach will bring me <•’ * Darrell There is joy in the cozy ears ol the new Montreal Expos knit hat - a birthday present joy. The new interim /. jjke your Bevel! certainly did with his Pfhe that arrived in the mail recently. Rural Retreat" b. Tho recreation vehicle shall be sited on the lot In compliance with all setback requirements that would apply to a principle building or structure, as shown on a site diagram submitted with the zoning compliance permit application. c. Tho recreation vehicle shall be connected to a water supply and have sewago facilities for the duration of the temporary occupan­ cy that comply with all applicable County and State health regula­ tions, as specified with tho zoning compliance permit application. d. The temporary occupancy of tho recreation vehicle shall be limited to a total of not moro than 14 days, cumulatively, In any six month period. 2. Where tho recreation vehicle Is proposed to be temporarily occupied during construction of a permanent dwelling on the same lot, subject to tho following terms and conditions: a. Occupancy of tho recreation unit shall be limited to occupants of tho permanent dwelling to be constructed on same lot. b. All permits required for the construction of the permanent dwell Ing have boon obtained. c. The recreation vehicle shall be sited on tho lot In all setback requirements that would apply to a P',ncni„ or structure, as shown on a site d.agram submitted with the zoning compliance permit application. d. There is joy in t*,e co air hitting your face <>n a hike, and the joy 01 warm house when it is over. Sports are certflinb the only thing that will bring me joy- Like Charles M. Schulz. I’m a big believer that h»*pP,nes'>• is a sad song. Put °n a John Prine or a Javon Isbell album and cry a’»d smile. After a couple weeks of remote Arning, there is joy ^hng U1C kidsback Oft the bus.There is5 J m seeing them gel ;>fl the bus.Therv >> J“>.'' »>«1 telling you that !>e saw a bald eagle IW o,„ the house. Joy 1,1 a letter from (I her grandkids to "nte her out a < I-'‘-M. HleK. is , . 'he house smelling <>r-«Khna\ baeJXn ‘c-cipe. . You’ve just g»t to ‘he joy il|H1 renR.|n her ii cvvn when thu *'H teani । . * volleyball match P^Poncd , lhe lx‘cn squaw king !°r though they ’ve »nly been home h>r ^nuies/X^.h bacon buns are lbc ChriL ' Pany is nn Z(K)m in^*1 the |ivi e. Tho recreation vehicle shall be connectedJo ®'^^ry^up^m have sewage facilities for the duration of ^health regulacy that comply with all applicable Gounty and app|(cat)on tions, as specified with tho zoning complianc pe .. H -Had fa a total of not more Tho temporary occupancy shall be Hmited Qf may approve than 180 days; provided the Zon n9 A?thin 90 additional days if one extension of tho permit fornot Xtsntial progress has thc Zoning Administrator determ nca nt gelling and the been made on the construction of me pe d||iQence by the end construction should bo completed wltn ouo w of the extension period. f. ♦ recreation vehicle shall cease no Tho temporary occupancy of tno r Hsued a certif jcate later than 7 day, alter m-nl dwoKing.” of uso and occupancy tor the new pc SECTION* T£ REPEAL OFXQNFDCTJNG OBDl^NCES^E^Cn^ hereby repealed Ail ordinances or parts of ord-nances in conH-ct w. Ordinance shall lake effect on lhe eighth day afw pu ■' ’ This (On.,Uchla!«?rdai?asmaybereqUued by law. Robin Hawthorne, C‘erh Charter Township of Rutland �Pa09 8 — Thursday, DocrnMw 17. 2020 — Th« HwtinQS Banner Hastings school board OKs employee contracte . Goebel BLS^^^^I^Lintendent goals Sophie Baf^ At its virtual niertim1 Area School S\ .lein~ lfo,ird ° unanimously annn" ..i a contract w,lh Hastings LduXal Support Personnel Elaine Garlock The Red Cross Bloodmobile was in town Monday, Dec. 14, for its last collection of the year. , i Death came Dee. 6 to Dr. William Lynch. DVM, of Dewitt who lived to age 80. He and his wife. Evelyn, lived here on Beech Street for several years where they were active in St. I dwards Church and the local historical society. 11c had grown up al Highland Park. He served in the U.S. Air Force as a captain and at thc same time treated the posts horses, dogs and family pels. He had a private practice in Last Lansing followed by retirement here and in Dewitt. He was survived by wife 1 velyn, four children, siblings. Burial took place al Fort Custer National Cemetery near Augusta. Anyone who drove on Cemetery Road last week or this would have seen some activity along the west side as work had begun lo remove thc front row of cemetery trees close to the road. The trees were felled and thc logs moved to a field on the east side of the road. Thc brush remained on the west side. By Monday, only six trees on the west side with their red painted x markings were left to be cut down. A utility vehicle was being used to remove the logs and hauled them two at a time, to the growing stack in the field of the east side. It was interesting to see the approach of vehicles. Some came sailing through as if nobody else was around. Others were more cautious. Also the operator waited until the coast was clear to make a trip with the long logs held crosswise since they occupied most of the roadway. Last week's Lakewood Neu s had minutes of the most recent Nurd meeting of the Odessa Township Board. One item pertained lo the removal of cemetery trees at a minimum amount of money. A house fire Saturday afternoon ruined the large frame house, three doors north of Lincoln Street and the APEC factory’. Many years ago, ii was known as thc Doty house. It was rented a few years and then owned by John and Jill Nielsen. Il has had other owners in the intervening years. 1 he front of the house was more seriously* damaged than thc rear. Siding in the house to the south was scorched and warped. It is probably the only dwelling in town that had a retaining wall in front made of cobblestones with a concrete cap. This cap provided a fun place for children to walk the width of thc property. As a mother with young children, in succession, this writer often helped a toddler get atop the smooth cap. hold a hand while the child walked thc narrow cap and then hopped down al the end of the wall. This was possible because the front lawn was higher than the adjacent sidewalk. First Congregational Church will hold its Christmas F.ve service at 5:30 Dec. 24. lhe church observes the mask requirement and proper spacing. Traditional and Cremation Services Pre-Planning Services Lirgc Parking Lol • Handicap Accessible Serving All Faiths Prv-amingcincnt Transfers Accepted 1 Owner/Mil ingCT* 528 A- Broadway, Hastings, MI >9058 269-915-3252 • www.girrbaclifuncralhome.net Family Owned and Operated Serving Hastings. Barry County and Surrounding Cummirn NOTICE TO RESIDENTS ‘ RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP 2461 HEATH ROAD, HASTINGS, Ml 49058 TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING DATES FOR 2021 2ND WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH AT 7:00 PM, UNLESS OTHERWISE POSTED JANUARY 13 APRIL 14 JULY 14 OCTOBER 13 FEBRUARY 10 MAY12 AUGUST 11 NOVEMBER 10 MARCH 10 JUNE 9 SEPTEMBER 8 DECEMBER 8 NOTICE OF 2021 MEETING DATES FOR THE FOLLOWING GROUPS ' Barry County Zoning Board of Appeals will meet on the following dates or at the call of the chair. The meetings start at 7:00 PM. January 11, 2021 April 12, 2021 August 09, 2021 November 08, 2021 February 08, 2021 May 10, 2021 September 13, 2021 March 08, 2021 June 14, 2021 October 11, 2021 Barry County Planning Commission will meet on the following dates or at the call of the chair. The meetings start at 7:00 PM. January 25, 2021 April 26, 2021 August 23, 2021 November 22, 2021 February 22, 2021 May 24, 2021 September 27, 2021 March 22, 2021 July 26, 2021 October 25, 2021 The meet!o^rp.oinJpxbjDlh.9£QupsJt• Tyden Center Community Room 121 South Church Street Hastings Ml 49058 The County of Barry will provide necessary auxiliary aids and ench as signers for the hearing impaired and audiotapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting/hearing upon ten (10) days notice to the County of Barry. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the County of Barry by writing or call the following. jvjicHAEL BROWN COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR 220 WEST STATE STREET HASTINGS Ml 49058 (269) 945-1284 Association and recommend^ w,1~c ,ht•reaM*s ,or several supervisor- non contract employees an(J administrators. as recommended by the board’s personnel committee. The three-year HFSl’A contract includes longevity compensation. *as Previously not available to support stall members such custodians, secretaries, paraprofessionals, food service personnel and others. ’T his has been an opportunity that we’ve been able to get to,,eIher "ith our support staff and come up with a thrce-ycar contract,” Board of Education President Luke Haywood said. “There’s a kit of go<xl things in this contract. I think probably the most noted one would be the longevity improvement that we’ve made for a lot of °ur s,,PP°rt sl:,ff We’re happy to be able to include and give them a lm|e n<Jclifional compensation for longevity. Again, wc worked hard with our HES PA team to come up with a vcry fair contract I think will be very favorable for the district as well.” lhe longevity provision states employees v'ho have completed JO full years of service •md arc currently qualified for longevity will receive a Jongevity payment of 4 percent. The ‘'talc continues with an 8 percent longevity payment tor 12 years of service and 10 percent for 20 years. All others not currently qualified for longevity will receive a $500 bonus once they reach eight to 10 years of service. $750 for 11 to 15 years. $1,000 for 16 to 20 years and $ 1.250 tor over 21 years of service. Longevity payments will be made annually prior to Christinas break. Later in the meeting, the board approved recommendations for salary* increases for both non-contract and administrative employees. “I think it’s very consistent with what we’re doing with the rest of our employees, and these are a lot of key individuals that I’m glad we’re able to compensate accordingly, like we’re able to do with the rest of our employees.” Eight non-contract employees will receive raises — some hourly, some salary. Tire raise was accompanied by an administration office wage schedule for 2(120-21 which begins at $11.72 an hour beginning at 90 days and ends at .$17.96 an hour after six years. Additionally, nine district administrators were granted wage increases for 2021, . __ Interim including interim Goebel. fsuperintendent of Previously tbc a-S- .> rcccivc an student acbievenienfjjs current t,x(ri, $7,617 .n „lc „)li: of $109,366 salary for interim suP<;rin'c"‘,|Cn!u1. administrator pay Haywood no,'“ . f the board freezing increases arc a res j[]e war d(1„ |0 administrator wages • raj$es allow funding concerns; schedule, administrative pay to gv b. *.ltx u. out funding and were very concerned atx u we froze all administrator wage .. we’re doing here is wc re ba > I back on track to the norma . h > 'avwood that we had approved prcv < t dy. . said. “1 would also like to add that Mr. is going to geta bump because of his. from NEOLA, an educational consulting h • The policies pertained to cost principles and the spending of federal funds, procurement ol federal grants or funds, and an emergency temporary telecommuting policy. Tire two federal policies deal with the terms and requirements of receiving federal grants or funds and the latter establishes a temporary telecommuting policy, which will be in place until in-person classes are resumed. _ Goebel, who completed his first official day in his new position Monday, presented the board with a list of his goals as interim superintendent. ”1 wanted to make sure that we were sustaining the growth — and also the vision — in which lhe board and the district is going.” Goebel said. His goals included keeping up to date on lhe district’s strategic planning, working Sophie Bates the audit, meaning there were no material toward the district’s fiscal goals, pursuing Writer misstatements in the city’s financials. additional technology use. and using branding Despite a year of uncertainty. lhe City of “Wc want to note that the City of Hastings lo market lhe district. Hastings is in a strong financial position for received an unmodified opinion and that is the “I just want to say that I appreciate that you the future, according lo Hungerford Nichols highest opinion that you can get.” Gruennert brought goals forward today, be it your first representatives Adriatic Schrauben, said. “That’s just a testament to Jane (Saurman. day on thc job.” Trustee Jennifer Eastman shareholder, and Mike Grucnnert, audit city clerk] and Jerry and the work that they said. “Thank you for providing these goals manager. put in throughout the year.” without us having to ask it from you.” Schrauben and Grucnnert, who worked on Alter presenting their findings. Gruennert As thc meeting drew to a close, board the city’s audit report, presented their findings and Schrauben provided the council with members thanked trustee Robert Pohl for his to the city council during a special virtual three main takeaways: Tlte council is receiving six years of service on the board, since it was meeting Tuesday evening. accurate financial information: the city is on his last board meeting. City Manager Jerry Czarnecki said the solid financial standing*, and the internal “We [board members! get in with these audit report w as an opportunity for the council controls -risk management to verify internal great visions of grandeur and all these things, lo not only assessthc city’s financial standing, processes are being done correctly — had no but ultimately the meat and potatoes of being but also to verify that work being done findings. elected to the board has lo be done, and that internally by city staff is accurate. “It’s extremely important for people to does require a lot of time and energy and “This audit is more of a chance for the understand this is an organizational success,” effort,” Trustee Dan Patton said. “And I council to hear that'the staff is handling their Czarnecki said. “Because everyone on our appreciate your service to the board and the responsibilities utyropriately.”. Czarnecki r4ciu!cP»hip icanx-Ui.s^i.-xcspQDsibility. lomake time you’ve spent working with us.” ( said. . ■ t Sllre t|iat their individual .departments. are Pohl thanked thc community for clcctjgjg The city received anininodified opinion on handling appropriately the procedures.” him and thc board for working with Turn through the past six years. “I wanted to take the opportunity to thank thc community of Hastings for allowing me to serve on lhe board because it really was a fantastic opportunity. It was hard, it was tough, it was challenging — but it was fantastic lo do it.” Pohl said. “It was inspiring. Luke Froncheck year. ?\nd even when limes were tough and the Staff Writer Currently. Supervisor Jim Brown said only work was hard and the decisions were The Hastings Charter Township Board of one or two families meet lhe poverty level difficult, working with you guys was a joy. 'Trustees took action to offer more help to guidelines and would qualify for aid in the So. I just wanted to say thank you all for the residents who are struggling financially. township past six years. Board members OK’d a20-pcrcent increase ”1 ni glad to hear it doesn’t affect too many “It was great.” in the current $12,760 paid to individuals or people,” Savage added. families in lhe township who meet thc federal hi other business, the board: minimum poverty guidelines. The vote came - Held a second reading of a proposed during a remote meeting Tuesday evening. ordinance validating floodplain insurance for The action will raise the payment to tow nship residents. $15,312 for residents w ho qualify. - Adopted the 2021 township meeting Board members had the option of accepting schedule. Board members normally meet the lhe 20-. 15- or 10-percent increase on second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Tay lor Owens minimum federal guidelines. But they decided Hastings Charter Township Hall. The only Staff Writer to give the largest possible increase to offer planned exception will be the Sept. 14 TCF and Huntington Banks are set to the most help possible. meeting, which is scheduled to take place at merge next year to create a banking institution “I have a soft spot for people who arc Historic Charlton Park. struggling.” Trustee Scott Savage said. - Approved payment of monthly bills of w ith $168 billion in assets. While TCF will continue to operate as nor­ The guideline will be in effect for one y ear. $12,254. mal until the deal is finalized, which is A vote on the amount will be made again next expected in the second quarter of 2021. TCF locations will eventually be absorbed and rebranded as Huntington Banks. Thc deal was unanimously approved by the boards of directors for both companies earlier this month. The combined banks will hold $117 billion in loans and $134 billion tn deposits. commission for a threu-year term, and Craig Sophie Butcs “That’s going to be huge,” Commercial Rolfe was appointed the 2021 attorney of Bank President and CEO Kevin Collison told , . Stuff Writer At its virtual meeting Ds'-- 9- ’,e Rul,an<l record. The Hastings Banner Wednesday. “It’s tljc Charter Township Board ol Tnl^' approved Hie township appointed thc Grand Rapids- nature of the business to consolidate, the big the township’s toil budget and appointed based engineering firm Prcm & Ncwhof as its banks have to get bigger and bigger to scale several officials'in' preparation for the new 202! engineer of record and Siegfried w ith the economy.” year, 1 Crandall I’.C. — a financial firm in Kalamazoo Collison said Commercial Bank is proud to Since the township's budget i' created -• as thc 2021 auditor of record. be a community bank w ith local decision-mak­ UMtig lhe previous sear'- budget as a template, The Ixxud also approved a three-year ing. ; few changes were made bet"een the 2020 and contract with Halifax Services for sexton, Smaller banks are more nimble and able to 2021 budget, aceordin- '» bolh 1‘,wnsh,l> grounds and janitorial services totaling $ 1.600 act faster than big banks that have to coordi­ freasurer Sandra GreenlieU t»wnshr|> per month. nate between massive departments, he said. < lerk Robin Hawthorne. . , The township has contracted Halifax When the national federal stimulus package lhc 2°21 budget, esthnate- a yearly Services in the past and was originally was released earlier ibis year, Collison said. considering a five-year contract with lhe Commercial Bank was able lo obtain benefit*,, avenue of $473 S455.67K. Thes:. . ■ arc el^e to what companv. However, several board members, such as Paycheck Protection Program loans’ --'bp's resent e^^ev have including trustees Matt Spencer and Brenda ahead the larger banks. been thus |ai jn 2(p(, Bellmore, said a live year contract seemed “There’s still a strong place in the country A $12,000 in.'r ~ plaimm^ services too long. for small community banks.” he said. I d like to .sec a one-year contract,” A representative from the Hastings branch the only sienifi f l,K> Spencer said. “It’s not that they haven’t done of 1CF Bank declined to comment about the ti>wnshi(i\ 2()V< r atPl budgets Money a great job lor us. but shouldn’t we do our due merger. r ; ng -?iees ffind diligence and pm that out lor bid?” TCF Banks will keep its headquuners in '>c'--«i-e the tow,,. , 1 currcnt'.' utilizing “As good business, we should do that.” Detroit, although lhe main headquarters w ftl mX-r w’"I"’" Bellmore said be at Huntington Bank’s Columbus, t Plan and ' .. ,ri’U ’"3Alter some deliberation, the board approved location. fi>wnshin i ej e 11 i„ r> received no i three soar contract with Halifax Services. This isn’t the first major business devcl nine's |or ^mpvns.niou .it Spencer and Bellmore voted to not approve ment involving Hastings area banks (his $26,759 for St,? ' ..\V.tbon; >3O.8S5 the contract, In October. Lake Trust Credit lor Hawthorn, (irci Iitield; and I think il the job has been adequate to announced plans to purchase the il, ,n,°n MI7pe,| "' jriru-t.-e. g‘Kxl. it can l>c m.iilu to be gixxl.” liustee branch of Mercantile Bank located -mVciv, The '1( b'eeintg a()r>intnienis Gene Hall said. “And ifthey’vc given us good West M-43 Highway. ‘1 1 -hX) al hs final lnw., u su ,ir Nicole Haight service *m the past. 1 don’t think a three-year I hat deal is expected to cIom* i wa' ''•■'PPuinie'd -/’the vear contract is too long for that.’’ Audit indicates city’s in g®od financial shape Gtatmgs approves increase in 2021 poverty payment TCF, Huntington plan multibillion-doilar bank merger Rutland Township board adopts budget^ prepares for 2021 �ThnrrHav Decernfcer 17, 2020-- Pag® q _ The Hashngs Banner — Thursday, City ^Proves installing new monitors for hybrid meetings Financial FOCUS Provided by thc Barry C ounty offices of Edward Jones Kevin Beck. AAMS® 400 W. Stats St, Suite B Hastings, Ml 49058 Have >our retirement plans changed because of COVID-19? If so, you have plenty of company. , Nearly 40 percent of those ' planning to retire say the pandemic has disrupted their intentions, according to the Edward Jones-Age Wave Four Pillars of the New Retirement study. You might have been thinking about retiring early * can you still do so? Even without a crisis, ii‘s ’ not a bad idea to review your important life goals from time to time. So, in thinking about lhe possibility of early retirement, consider these " factors: • Your retirement lifestyle - Your ability lo retire early depends somew hat on what sort of lifestyle you’re anticipating during your retirement years. If you think you’ll be traveling extensively or pursuing expensive activities, you might not be able to afford to retire as early as someone with more modest ambitions. Of course, there’s no “right” or “wrong” way of living in retirement - wc all have our ow n dreams and preferences. But be aware that different lifestyles do cany* different price tags and have different effects on when you can retire securely. • Sources of retirement income - Obviously, a key factor in knowing whether Sa,fln»l> K,1«helc The Hasiing^* ,0 Member SIPC Andrew Cove, AAMS® 421 W. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings, Ml 49050 you can retire early is the amount of retirement income you can rely on. So, you’ll have to assess all your sources: Social Security, any other pensions you might receive, and your investment portfolio, including your 401 (k) and IRA. The amounts you receive from these sources will depend on a variety of factors. For Social Security, lhe longer you wail until collecting, the larger your monthly payments (although they will “top out” when you reach 70, excluding costof-living adjustments). In regard to your investments and retirement accounts, you’ll need to establish a withdrawal rate that’s appropriate for the length of lime you expect to be retired. So, by adjusting these variables - taking Social Security earlier or later, taking more or less money from your retirement accounts - you can help determine if lhe retirement date you had in mind is viable. • Your feelings about work - Your goals are not sialic - they can change in response lo any number of reasons, both external and personal. When you first decided you wanted to retire early, you might have been motivated by, among oilier things, a weariness of your current job. But has that changed over lime you found new challenges mat interest you at work? kJr, if you were forced by the pandemic to work remotely, did you actually enjoy the arrangement and want to continue it? After all. many employers have found that their workers can be just as productive working at home, so, even when we’ve gotten past COVID-19, wc might see a sizable shift in the geography of the workplace. In any case, if your feelings about work have changed in some way, leading you to think you could work longer than originally planned, you’d likely gain some financial advantages. You’d make more money, for starters, but you’d also keep building your 401(k) and IRA, and you could even possibly delay taking Social Security. The pandemic may lead to a reevaluation of many financial goals - and taking early retirement might be one of them. By thinking carefully about your situation and your options, you can come up with a course of action that’s right for you. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC h Asfe Doctor Universe Sappy story of trees Dr. Universe: Why do frees have sap? Aliyah. X, Kirkland, Wash. Dear Aliyah, Just as blood moves important stuff around (he human body, sugary sap moves important things around in trees. My friend Nadia Valverdi told me all about it. She’s a researcher at Washington Slate University who studies how apple and cherry trees survive in different envi­ ronments. When we eat food, like a delicious apple or a handful of cherries, we get important nutrients. Along with some help from the digestive system, our blood helps carry nulrients to different parts of the body to keep us strong. Trees need nutrients, too. They use their roots to suck nutrients and water from soil. They also have the ability to make their own food: sugars. Trees absorb sunlight through their leaves and use this energy from the sun lo make sugars from water, carbon dioxide gas from the air, and a few other ingredi­ ents. A lot of sugars are made in the leaves, but they don’t do lhe tree much good if they just stay in one spot. Tire sugars have to get to other parts of lhe tree to help it survive. That’s where the sap comes in. “Its main task is to make sure that every organ is well-fed and growing." Valverdi said. While our blood moves through tubclike veins and arteries, sap flows through two different lulx-like parts oi the tree. One part, called xylem, moves important stuff like waler and nutrients from the hottoni of the tree to the top — from its roots to its leaves. Thc other part, called phloem, moves imjxjrtanl Stuff from the leaves to other parts oi the tree, such as the branch­ es, roots and fruit. I asked Valverdi how a sticky, gooey liquid like sap could move through these lubes. After all, sap doesn’t seem lo move on its own. It turns out that some liquids, such as sap, can move through a narrow space without any help from gravity or other outside forces. This can happen in plants or trees when sap escapes through tiny, microscopic holes in lhe leaves. When sap molecules escape lhe leaf, more sap mole­ cules move in to fill the empty space and keep thc sap flowing upward through lhe tree. It’s a phenomenon we find happening everywhere from house plants lo celery stalks to big apple trees. "All trees and plants have sap.’’ Valverdi said. "The difference is that sometimes in big trees, we can sec it with our eyes because it is more gooey.” One really gooey kind of sap you might have seen before comes from sugar maple trees. You may even put it on your pan­ cakes or waffles. You guessed it, maple syrup is made from sap. Just like us. trees have systems that help them move important stuff around. These systems help the plants survive. When trees do well, that’s good for us, too. They do so many things for us. from making thc oxygen wc all breathe to giving us deli­ cious fruit to eat. Dr. Universe You can learn more about lhe xylem and phloem in this simple activity using food coloring, water and some celery: https:// w ww. youtube, com/watch? v=Klug9Foou3s Do you have a question? Send it to Washington State University's resident sci­ entist and writer, Dr.UniverseCwwsu.edu or visit her website, aslulruniverse.com. approved pa>>"S oniiors jn s ,n<;for three expenditure u°Unc11 chambers. Alth® 10 . .k^V101 budgeted and wdj™ fund bah^-thenio^^'X^^vethe council’s jncciitL-' to h । • “I think this ts g°n\ / a lot because, questioned if the monitors wen. related to the installation of scrWJ1Lmtck°US\dlscussed. City Manager Jerry C»n«-cki said these will be large computer niomtors^Cuncntly in the council chambers, a smart board is used for projections and display these monitors will replace that. . . "The resolution will be better for, not only lhe council, but when we do transition to have the public back in tlie ineetings," Czarnecki said. “So, this is for better quality, and it will also be set up in such a way that if cable access so desires, there will be an open connection. So that when they rotate through their camera angles - they have three camera angles — they could do a fourth one that shows whatever’s being displayed on the screen.” Council member Don Smith asked if the hybrid meeting requirement has an end date. Czarnecki said the current requirement starts after Jan. 1 and goes through the year 2021. But even after the hybrid meeting requirement expires, the monitors will aid the council in its meetings. “TTiis will highly increase the ability to read whatever’s on the monitors, as opjxiscd to the data projector, and as 1 mentioned before, it will also give the ability to show’ what’s on the monitors through the cable access channel," he said. Council member Bill Redman’s absence was excused and. during council comment, Jim Cary expressed his appreciation for Redman, who lost his bid for re-election to lhe Fourth Ward council seat last month to Jacquie McLean. Cary said Redman had been helpful, and answered many questions for Cary, who was elected lo the council in November 2018. "... he’s been a terrific mentor for me. and I know thc people have spoken and Jacquie will do a good job - but thank you Bill for your help.” Tossava added a comment about Redman as well. "All I want to say about this, because I have no information, is that Bill Redman is in the hospital, so we need to keep him in our prayers,” Tossava said. "I don’t know what’s going on with him. but I just think we have to keep him in thc back of our mind and pray for him and, hopefully, everything comes out fine for him." Also, during council comment, member Al Jarvis asked about the process of being sworn in and how’ that would work, considering virtual requirements. Times will be scheduled for the council members lo be sworn in and sign lhe required papers, City Clerk Jane Saurman said. “The plan is to make it as easy for council members - and mayor - as possible,” she added. In other business, the council: -Approved a resolution for a contract from the Michigan Department of Transportation for resurfacing project along East Woodlawn Avenue from North Michigan Avenue east to the city limits. - Approved eight separate resolutions that were additional material to the agreement with the Municipal Employees’ Retirement System for the hybrid and defined-benefit programs. The program itself was unchanged, but the resolutions acted as verification for membership, qualifications and credit awarded to each of the employment divisions. Those divisions included police, city council, the department of public services, and the general division. . - Accepted a $27,000 bid from Hometown 'Tree Service for tree removal and stump grinding as recommended by Director of f^ublic Services Travis ate. Although this was the only bid submitted, the contract amount is similar to others in the past. - Approved the repair cost of $22,460 from APGN Inc. for a blower for the Wastcwa(er treatment plant. Cary as e about the process getting a price f°r rePair. Thte said the replacement of the ower would have to come from the manufacturer of lhe pan ;md that restoring the old ^er would be more feasible. The cost of a new blower is $ 125 t(XX) “We can’t find »n alternative for lhis equipment.” Tate - Noted that D<)n , w ’ wh°se absence was previously e*cU . ’ . On the remote meeting but was unable heard earlier. - Approved an betwecil cjt and the YMCA of s‘niy for 2021 and 2022 for $30,000 per clarified that 'his is the same the council and the YMCA ha'J 'b‘ * ’he paM Cary asked if the dount same as previous ) °^va Sa}d lhe c<)st is the same. - Acknowledged J‘ to supporl (he * city’s community engagement statement. Community Development Director Dan King said the statement is part of lhe Redevelopment Ready Communities Project from thc Michigan Economic Development Corp. The city already has followed many of the engagement procedures as part of lhe master plan update and also as a part of the streetscape redesign venture in which lhe downtown development authority is involved, King said. “This statement will be reviewed by the planning commission in lhe years that the master plan will also be reviewed,” King added. "So, the city council will sec this every five years as it morphs or changes in conjunction with the master plan update.” - Received public comment from McLean regarding ways to improve thc meetings and the community engagement statement. “It’s my understanding that council and planning commission has an iPad or a computer supplied to them, and so I’m just wondering has everyone been trained in Zoom and how to use it, and is there anything from the Michigan Municipal League that states best practices for Zoom meetings for council?* she asked. “It’s just something to think about - constructive criticism - and looking at the way thc other communities do it that surround us, I think there’s ways lo improve. "And also in regards to the community engagement strategy, when I looked at examples of other communities that thc Michigan Economic Development Corp, used as examples, there probably is some room for improvement there,” she added. "It’s a conversation that can be ongoing, and that’s why I wondered if it can be changed at any time, or if it has lo stay that way until we review the master plan again.” The next regular city council meeting will begin at 7 p.m. Dec. 28. Links for the virtual meetings can be found on the official Hastings website, hastingsmi.org/liome/news/. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 For Sale Sporting Goods Help Wanted CARRON SPORT AIR Hock­ ey Table. $300.00 OBO. Phone 269-908-1654. CROSS-BOWS FOR SALEMBX 320 Mission-Matthcws, 5.41bs, 200- draw weight, 350 FI’S. Paid $1399 asking $600; Titan Extreme Ten Point, 6.51bs, 180- draw weight, 330 FPS. Paid $750 asking $300 Jeff Pederson w 269-804-1107 or Cassie ® 269-838-9730. TRUCK DRIVER WANTED; Candidates must have a CDL with a ’T” endorsement, ex­ perience and a good driving record. Duties include loading and hauling logs and lumber with double bottom trailers. Applicant will team to operate a front end loader and work off road. Competitive wage based on experience and in­ cludes a full benefit package. Apply in person at Quality Hardwoods Inc., 396 Main St., Sunfield, MI 48890. KASSON 10FT OAK Pool Table, excellent condition. $1,000.00 or OBO. 269-908­ 1654 PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate adttrtittng in this ne^puper is iubjcU b» lhe Fair >1 jtaing Au anJ lhe Michigan Civil Rifjits Act which cvtlec lively make it ilteg-d to athertue “any preference. linnuiion or dhcrimirution ba'.ed on race, color, religion, xv handicap, familial >Utu\. national origin, age or martial sutui. or an intention, to make any such preferciKC. limiution or dncnntnation” Familial watvt inctuJci children under lhe ape of IK living *ith parrntv or legal custodians, pregnant *omen and people securing curtixly of children under IK This niMvpapcr will net knowingly accept any adverticing (or real estate which is in violation of the law. Out readers are hereby informed that all dwellmp* advertised in this newspaper arc available on an equal opportunity bx-.iv To report diventmnation call the I Fair Motiving Center at 616-451-2W) I The HUD tell free telephone n ambetfor lhe bearing impaired n 1-800 927-9275 Business Services MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. BELLS CONSTRUCTION18 years experience. Dry wall, Kainting, tile, flooring, trim, ome improvements, rubbish removal. 269-320-3890. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. VVill buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. Dig! tel TV Antennas Cell Phone Beostars 2G9.fl87.824I TVMTIMtA t WHIR MS Ut: RfMAlMliMl RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN l5-”* NQJICJLO^^ HEARING ON SPECIAL LAND USE APPLICATION AT JANUARY 6, 2021 MEETING TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF RUTLAND. BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN. AND ALL OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE the Rutland Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing at its regular meeting on January 6. 2021 at 7:00 p.m. at the Rutland Charter Township Hall located at 2461 Heath Road, within the Charter Town­ ship of Rutland, Barry County, Michigan. The Township will hold this meeting as an in-person meeting, unless any applicable Emergency Order of the Slate of Michigan or Rutland Charter Township prohibits this meeting from being held as an in-person meeting. If this meeting is held as an electronic meeting a notice regarding the meet­ ing held electronically will be posted on the Rutland Charter website (www rutlantE ItownshiP.org) including how members of the public can participate in the electronic meeting. The items to be considered at this public hearing include the following: 1. The application of Kevin Prins on behalf of Excelling Leaders for special land use approval of a “Rural Retreat” on the property commonly known as 3773 Yeckley Road (parcel number 13-022-006-00). The subject property consists of approximately 56 acres in lhe AG/OS Agricultural/ Open Space Preservation zoning district. The applicant is proposing to provide indoor and outdoor programs and activities for the physical relaxation and spiritual renewal of missionaries, pastors, and their fami- j lies associated with the applicant’s nonprofit Christian ministry. Follow­ ing the public hearing the Planning Commission may discuss and decide this special land use application al this meeting. Note: the Planning Commission’s consideration of this application and any action thereon is contingent upon final action by the Township Board at its January 13, 2021 meeting to amend Chapter 220 (Zoning) of the Rutland Charter Township Code lo define the term "Rural Retreat” and add that land use as an enumerated special land use in lhe AG/OS AgriculturaVOpen Space Preservation District—proposed Ordinance No. 2021-176 Charter Township Clerk at thP matters maY mailed to the Rutland I Written comments conceminn public hearing/meetinq and t Cbarter township Hall at any time prior to this the public hearinq/meetina (if unher be submitted to lhe Planning Commission at 9 ( the meeting is held as an in-person meeting). । erenced ^peda^'land 5°de'Zonina Map'Mas!er Plan'and lhe above-'e’Charter Townshio Clerk Ihk^t10310^ may be exanlincd by contacting the Rutland ’ business dav«? maimI- aL u Townsb,P Hall during regular business hours on regular this Note and Tm ?y ,h° TownshlP oli'ces ,f°m and af,er 1,,c of examined at the ^eluding the day ol the hearing/meeting. and further may be examined at the hearing/meeting (if the meeting ts held as an in-person meeting). serv?™ m 9,arter Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and J e n?Qet,n9/bearing to individuals with dtsabilifies. such as signers for thP abl/ mPflfe? and audl0taPes of printed materials being considered, upon reason■ ° 'Ce ? 1 le Townsbip. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aiqs o rvices should contact the Township Clerk as designated below Robin Hawthorne, Clerk Rutland Townch; 2461 Heath Charter Road S,1'P Hastings, Michigan 49058 (269)946-2194 �pa?e 10 — ihun.oay. Decent ,7’ 2020 Tnv Hasting Ba^ner fl look Dock at the slot les and columns on local history In mo Hastings Banner turning BflGK THE PAGES < Local men in the Spanish-American War Kathy Maurer Copy Editor With help from the late Harland and Nyla Nyc. Joyce Wcinbrecht and others had hoped to" compile a book of Spanish-American veterans from Barry County. While they weren't completely successful in that effort, they did gather a fair amount of information on local men. That information, along with Weinbrecht’s notes on the Spanish-American War, were donated to Hastings Public Library. Some internet resources were available , when Weinbrechl first wrote her series in the late summer and fall of 1998. Those resources have only grown in the intervening 22 years, providing the ability to expand on the information she and others had collected. As mentioned previously in this series, John Henry Chase of Prairieville, who served with Co. E of the 2nd U.S. Infantry, was the only Barry County resident to die in Cuba during lhe Spanish-American War. Military records show the 18-year-old was working as a farmer when he enlisted. He was just over 5 feet, 5 inches tall, with blue eyes and sandy red hair. He succumbed to malarial fever July 30, 1898. in Santiago. Cuba, and is buried al thc Prairieville Cemetery. However, lhe short-lived war was not without losses of other local men. either still while serving in the military or soon after. Pvt. Henry D. Root, who was in Co. K of the Michigan 35th Volunteers, likely was ill when returned to his home in Middleville, where he died of typhoid fever in 1898. He was 21. His death certificate stated lhe “proposed” burial site would be Mount Hope Cemetery', Middleville. However, his name is not included in online cemetery’ information. The y oungest of soldiers also succumbed lo disease after returning home to Middleville. Pvt. Clarence E. Wiley, though apparently just 15, served in Co. K of the Michigan 35th Volunteer Regiment. He died shortly after turning 16 and is buried at Rutland Cemetery. New York State native Corp. Edwin \V. Grants, of Middleville, served in Co. K of the Michigan 35th. He died of lung abscess in 1899 in Lancaster, Pa . and is buried in John Henry Chase of Prairieville served with the 2nd U.S. Infantry in Cuba, where he died of malaria. He is the only Barry County many known to have died in Cuba during the Spanish-American War. However, several other local men also died of dis­ ease soon after while serving in the military. NEW YEAR S DAY DEADLINES DtAOUMMS ANO^^ONDAl DEC.21 AT NOON NEW YEAR'S DEADLINES Deadline forADS: Monday, Dec. 28 at Noon Deadline for NEWS: Monday, Dec. 28 at Noon Deadline for CLASSIFIEDS: Monday, Dec. 28 at 2 p.m. Papers will be on the newsstands Tuesday, Dec. 22nd and Tuesday. Dec. 29th Jarnes Ackerson died in 1931 and is buried at _ Arl'ngton National Cemetery Washington, °C. However, his name continued to be known in World War II after a Liberty Ship’ the SS James L. Ackerson, was named in his honor. Canastota, N y , CorP- Frank D Smith- 23. of Nashville, already Was . ’ jn the regular Army. Battery E of (he y * 4(h Artillery, when the war began. His death certified’ under cause of death reads- ‘The nbove-mentioned Frank D- Smith was a Soldier at Fort Monroe, Va.. a".ddied at that pTace May ,5‘ ,899- BodX shipped to Nashville, Mich., and interred” Lakeview- Cemetery, Nashville. Second Lt. Charles H.Munton of Morgan, graduated from West Point in 1898 and reportedly was fought in the Philippines with the 12th U.S. Infantry By 23, he had been to New Orleans, California. Hawaii and other Pacific islands He contracted typhoid fever and died aboard the USS Hancock while returning to the States. He is buried in Marshall. other Hastings men died in 1902 while serving in the PhilipPincs- PvL Chas- L. Dickinson, who initially served in Co. L of the Michigan 33rd and later joined lhe regular Army was with the US. 26th Infantry in the Philippines. He died of cholera in November 1902 and is buried at the National Cemetery in San Francisco. Dan Gillespie was with Troop D of the U.S. 3rd Cavalry. He was exposed to TB and cholera while serving in lhe Philippines and died there at age 28. His body was relumed home and buried at Riverside Cemetery, Hastings. Sgt. Albert E. Poland of Middleville was in the U.S. Marines, but served mainly at sea. He “served on lhe Columbia in Cuban waters,” according to military records. He later was on The USS Prairie from Norfolk, Va., and The USS Tacoma at the Brooklyn Naval Yard. He died of unknown causes in 1905, while still in the Marines and is interred at Cypress Hills National Cemetery, Brooklyn. N.Y. Though the Spanish-American War was brief, it had lasting physical and mental impacts on the men who voluntarily served. Pvt. Harlow G. Carter Jr. of Hastings was one of many local men in Co. K. of the Michigan 35th. He had suffered from typhoid fever while in thc service and took his own life in April 1900, when he was just 18. • The war took jtr toll on some andrieft others unscathed but anted with stories and lifelong friends. /X few men continued to serve in the military. Most returned home. Many stayed. Some removed to other parts of the state or country. James Ackerson, was a cadet at thc U.S. Naval Academy when the Spanish-American War began. He graduated 14th in his class at the Academy in May 1898. In 1906, he was listed as a naval constructor, and made shipbuilding his career. He was the only child of John and Katherine “Kitty” Laberdie. He and his wife, Martha Buist, had no children and lived most of their married lives in Philadelphia. Meanwhile, his parents had moved to the Hollywood area of Los Angeles, where his father worked in real estate. James Ackerson died in 1931 and is buried al Arlington National Cemetery, Washington, D.C. However, his name continued to be known in World War II after a Liberty Ship, lhe SS James L. Ackerson was named in his honor. Although other men did not achieve such renown, their service was nonetheless important. So. building on the collected data of Wcinbrecht and the Nyes, here is the start of what has been compiled on lhe men, including their military service, birth and death dates, burial location and additional notes. Like most research tasks, some details remain elusive. [Anyone who has additional information t0 provide for a possible publication is encouraged to do so by emailing ncws@j-adgraphics.com.] Corp. Harley M. Andrus, Hastings, Michigan 35th, Co. K, 1879-1941, buried in Kalamazoo. Pvt. Emery- Irving Apsey, Hastings, U.S. 13th Infantry, Co A 1877-1936. Riverside Cemetery, HasHnes. ' „ Pvt. Frank H Barnaby. Hastings, Michigan 35th, Co. K. 1875-1961, buried in Kansas. Barnaby h id become ill while in the service and remained unwell through 1899, when he was discharged. However, he recovered and lived well >n,° his 80s' He moved to Kansas where he worked as a car ‘X'«« i» a railroad shop, accordtng to the 1930 U.S. Census , ., „ , Pvt. Thomas David Barry. Carlton U.S. 4th Infantry, Co j |g76-1939. Mt. Calvary. Hastings. ’ ’ ... *’?• Thomas M Batey. Middleville. Michigan 35th Co K 1877-1955. buned in Grimes County T„„s Occupation at time of enlistment’ Hn« • Pvt. Harry j uJ^h Bahin>oro. Michigan 35th. Co. B, i87?|^,’ buried in Coldwater. Artificer ® ,las,iT 19th Infantry rT p 1875-1913. Hastings Township Cem5. ’J wa< >dcked in ,he hvad by a ho^ H dying at the soldiers’ ho„ mud Wlds’ Pvt. Curl |P e Hadinsv- Michigan 32nd. Co. liB7x7u'948. L°s An8eles National CcmJ Pv'- 0e5lyM. »^n*Vr' HaS'inBS- The Spanish-American War marker, which can be found in many local cemeteries, especially Riverside in Hastings, has a distinctive shape. Michigan 32nd, Co. B, 1877-1933. Los wife, Betsy Ross Weems, at the San Francisco Angeles National Cemetery. National Cemetery. John H. Beyer. Irving. U.S. 6th Cavalry. Pvt. Charles J. Corson. iMiddlcville, Troop E, 1869-? He was living in Charlotte in Michigan 35th, Co. K. 1882-1946. Mount 1905, when he was married in Genesee Hope, Middleville. County. His wife is buried in that county, but Jay M. Darby, 1869-1950, Fuller his place of rest is not readily apparent. Cemetery, Carlton Township. Pvt. Horace Lemuel Bishop, Hastings, Pvt. Eli Davis, Hastings, Minnesota 12th, Michigan 35th, Co. K. 1876-1954. buried in Co. K, 1878-1934, Riverside Cemetery. Empire. Hastings. Pvt. Ixe D. Blackford. Hastings. U5. 1st Pvt. Peter D. DeCook, Nashville. Infantry, Co. C, 1870-1938, buried in Michigan 34th Infantry, 1874-1951 .Lakeview Georgetown, Ottawa County. He was Cemetery. Nashville. discharged with disability in December 1898, Pvt. William H. Dickens, Middleville, from Puerto Rico. Michigan 35 th. Co. K, 1871-1923. Mount Pvt. Will Bootes, Hastings. U.S. 23rd Hope. Middleville. Infantry, Co. G, possibly buried in Ohio. Corp. Roy Dillenback, Woodland. U.S. Claude Amzy Bush, Hastings. U.S. 6th 19th Infantry, 1874-1932, buried in Allegan. Vol. Infantry, Co. A. 1881-1940. Riverside Pvt. William H. Douglas, Hastings, Cemetery, Hastings. Michigan 35th, Co. K, 1875-? (May have Pvt. Albert H. Carveth, Hastings, moved to Houston. Texas) Michigan 35th, Co. K, 1877-1947. Riverside Pvt. Edward Downs. Hastings. Michigan Cemetery, Hastings. Occupation at time of 32nd, Co. H, 1876-1962. Riverside Cemetery, enlistment: bicycle repair Hastings. Pvt. Nelson Carveth, Hastings, Michigan Reen DuPree. Hickory Comers, Michigan 32nd.Co. C, 1874-1917. buried in Kalamazoo. 34th. No further information. Pvt. Guy Irving Church. Middleville, U.S.3rd Infantry, Co. K, 1880-1951, buried in To be continued... Council Bluffs, Iowa, Frank D. Cole. Hastings, New York Naval Sources for this series include research by yard, bookkeeper. Cole was working in lhe lhe late Harland and Nyla Nye; Turning Point Brooklyn naval yard when he visited John for America, Irving Wersteine; VFW, Garrison and reported his condition in a letter September 1998: Hastings Banner archives, that was reprinted in lhe Nov. 19 Banner. 1898 and 1914; Nashville News 1898; New Cole continued his work for the government. Standard Encyclopedia 1958; The World At the time of lhe World War I draft in Book. 1950; Angels of the Battlefield, lhe September 1918, he was working for Customs Life of Clara Barton, Harper and Brothers, within thc U.S. Treasury Department and New York, 1956; Michigan Public Acts 1901, living in Passiac, NJ. 223 /George W. Cullum’s Biographical George C. Cook. Middleville. U.S. 6th Register of the Officers and Graduates of the Cavalry, Troop E, 1881-1956. He also served United Slates Military’ Academy at West in the Philippines with Co. C of the 19^ U.S. Point, New York; barryjnigenweb.org, Infantry, and was a major during World War I. Jamilsearcherg, findagravecom, Wikipedia,' Between military stints, he was married spanamwar.com, usmm.org, National Archives Bertha Parr, had two children, divorced and and Records Administration, ancestrycom, remarried Cook eventually moved lo Hastings Public Library! California and his buried beside his second Hastings man scammed out of $10,000 A 21-year-old Hastings man called police Dec. 10 after he had sent S 10,675 to a strang­ er over the internet. The man said he met a woman on the dating app Plenty of Fish who claimed to be 18 years old and sent him a nude picture. The man look a nude picture from the internet and sent it lo the woman. A few weeks later, the woman told him she got into an argument with her parents over lhe photograph and her father broke her laptop. She also said she was actually 14 years old. The man was then contacted by someone else who claimed to be a private investigator, and another person who claimed to be the girl’s father. They told the Hastings man they wouldn’t press charges if he sent money, The father requested money over PayPal for lhe broken laptop, the woman’s medical bills and more. Eventually, the Hastings man’s brother told him lo tell their father what was going on. and his father told him to call the police, who informed the man he had been scammed. Thc case is inactive. Delton man calls police after Xbox controller destroyed A 23-year-old Delton man called police Nov. 12 to report his ex-girlfriend, 18, of Otsego, went into his house without permission. He said she and another man threw open his front door so fast it hit a table and knocked a glass of waler onto his Xbox controller, ruining it. She then went upstairs to get some of her clothes and left. He said she had lived at the residence, in the 14000 block of Ixvckshore Road in Barry' Township, a month pre­ viously. Information was forwarded lo thc prosecuting attorney’s office. Narcan revives man after heroin overdose Police were called regarding a heroin overdose in lhe 11000 block ot North Avenue in Assyria Township at 5:28 a.m. Dec. 12. A 22-ycar-old Dowling man was lying on a mat­ tress on thc floor, unresponsive. /X 60-year-old man was attempting to administer CPR. but was doing so improperly. An officer administered three rounds ot Natvan, and the 22-yearold man woke up. He kicked the officer and had to be restrained to prevent him front running away. He was taken to an area hospital. No leads for stolen trailer A heavy-duty hauling trailer was reported Molen from a residence in the 9000 block of Cedar Creek Road in Barry Township at 9 a.m. Dec. 5. A 49 ) ear-old man said it iikc» was stolen between lhe night of Dec. 3 and the morning of Dec. 5. The custom-built trf/ er was parked next to his house. The case is inactive with no further leads. �Tho Hastings Banner - Thursday. December 17.2020 - „ quarrel over Midd|ev'He village president vacancy Savanah Kaechde I n . Contributing Writer ’ fioin 1 Cv’^e Village Council members are ’ n ! 4 dcc»Mon on filling thc seat of village , E^cnt following the Nov. 20 death of < J^Mdcnt Charlie Pullen - and the clock is ( tK*ing. . the two candidates who have expressed I interest in replacing Pullen clashed during ! tCesday's village council meeting - President i ‘ •'o Tempore Sherry Ronning and lYustee • Mike Cramer. ut. । Ronning offered her first comment. I m J interested in carrying on as thc president for J Charlie; I would like to hear other people’s • thoughts.” . , I Trustee Ed Schcllinger questioned if " Ronning felt she had the time to take on the ’ responsibilities of village president, consider­ ing her full-time job. < “I guess my question would be, Sherry, my I understanding is that you’re saying you work , full-rime. Do you feci that you have ample ’ time to also dedicate rime to the village?” he » asked. ,l •'! actually do, Ed, because I’m working ; probably three-quarters of thc time. I’ll start {in the morning and I end at about 3 in thc afternoon and I usually have a day off a week.” Ronning answered. “So, it’s kind of going into a partial retirement, but it’s easy because I’m (working) from my home.” Trustee Mike Lytle questioned if anyone else from the council wanted to run for village president and that is when Cramer spoke. “Charlie had been pestering me for a cou­ ple years to try and do it, and I had told him ‘no’ and then he tried to negotiate with me because I had Carter [his son] in Cub Scouts • and that had a pretty big draw in my schedule. Then I had Carter in soccer and that was a pretty big draw in my schedule.” Cramer said. “1 feel with the projects wc have coming up and some of the unfinished business that Charlie left. I think I’d be best suited to han­ dle those situations.” Ronning replied, “I’m sorry, but I disagree with that, Mike, and I’ll tell you why. You have three young children, a full-time job. and sports activities and so I feel I would have lhe • better lime to do it. But then I would reach out to their elders for expertise and I’m finding our newest council member is pretty talented, so I feel that I would be better suited for that at this time. I think it’s something that you could grow in to as your children grow up and you’re not full-time parent, full-time job.” “I find time for everything else. I’m pretty sure I can find time for this, too,” Cramer said. “I just feel like there would be missing experience with this wastewater treatment “nd Wi,h •hc buildil* up next door.' Ronning disagreed, saying that she has run several businesses and currently runs her own business, which would make her capable of learning and managing, “I don’t think you have thc time and commrtment for u,” she added. .. 1,j!nVC,P,cnty of time.” Cramer replied, and I m also not at high-risk category lor this V‘X■7h>,Ch is my °"'cr bi8 v .u ' 8UCSS vve will leave it to other C|°Um n1em^ers t0 decide what they want to 1 °t». r ~ran,er*' Ronning concluded. en Trustee Kevin Smilh proposed a proCC«wv?SeICCl lhc nexl Prcs’dcnt. What I really think may be beneficial is that we come together as a council and pool some questions and concents and really have the opportunity to hear both sides out,” he said. ‘Based on just general qualifications; I think that that’s really the most important move here.” Ronning added more thoughts on Cramer: “I don’t want to slight Mr. Cramer too much, but I think it’s important that we look at tem­ perament and we look at how someone expressed themselves and those arc my con­ cerns. ” I’m just going to be frank with you. I think that women can learn and do anything they want to do and I want you to keep that in mind.” “My concern is, when there’s hard ques­ tions that need to be asked, they need to be asked and it has nothing to do with tempera­ ment and everything to do with ’ Cramer said “That’s why you involve thc rest of the council,” Ronning interrupted. “Mrs. Ronning. I’m talking. If you want to interrupt that’s fine but...” Cramer said, “That’s why you involve the rest of the council members and gel their opinions” Ronning replied. “And so, my concern is that and I feel Charlie and 1 also had a lot of talks and he appointed me as pro tempore for a reason.” “Are you done?” Cramer asked. "Arc you done?” Ronning answered. “Well, I still had something to say, but you interrupted me and that’s why I was asking if you were done," Cramer said. “Nope, go ahead, you have lhe floor," Ronning said. “My concern is that, when there's topics that need to be discussed, it’s not about tem­ perament, it’s about the well-being of ever}’ resident in this village - not the 12 people that live in lhe condos in the level of a pond - but everyone.” Cramer said. “And when those questions a« and be »b!e to them." Ronning j mu assume tha. . from tliosc nnd J found J^plc have are and be able to present them,” Ronning said. Ihoseiiermi^^^h^^mly. However, Smith disagreed and said the ■•We have to «Uons ami questions should receive impromptu answers. make sure we . । . ‘ntetests of “I don’t think that preparation would neces­ every resident m*'” n"> «onsidera,ion‘ sarily give us lhe information that we need,” not just a couple. “I don’t know w '• ‘ w 8 » condos has to he added. Schillenger agreed with Smith. do with r because (J.alkln8 about Village Manager Patricia Rayl reminded tonight. Mr. Co and ^>»e been on everyone that, when four council members planning commts““"cd for thc meet, dial is technically a quorum, which bcuem’enl because I would require that the meeting be open lo lhe hasemhh offered « solution t0 the of public. However, since it would be considered a special meeting, the time between lhe meet­ the decision-making Orc. ,hat wc create just an ^"“""y for u, t * ' ing and the public notice is 18 hours rather than the 10 days which is normally required. together and have o r0™dl»Mc discussjong As a result, thc meeting for the four trustees think that each of us not pu,tlng ^n. I to come up with their questions for the two the hat should work to g erate a Hsl of lions and concerns that we address and that candidates will take place al 6 p. m. Tuesday, Dec. 22. we just give each other equal timc t0 ”1 think the goal here is that we just really and then, from there. I think wc can then make our decision publicly after lJ)a(.s . „ want to give both of them thc opportunity to pass their knowledge back to us and truly Smith clarified for Schelhnger lha( thc ‘ posed meeting would be for trustees Amanrh frame this as who would be belter qualified and who’s best suited lo serve and that would Fisk, Lytle. Schcllinger, and himself toTm up with lhe questions without the two cand ! really be the only outcome here,” Smith . dates present. Fisk proposed setting up the added. Ronning asked, since thc meeting will be questions and emailing them to the candidates open to lhe public, it won’t just be the four to not have the answers aU in one place. “I agree, Amanda, that’s a good idea, that council members. “Anybody who wants to join that can join allows a person to digest what the questions that because it’s a public meeting, correct?” NOTICE TO CREDITORS TRUST ESTATE TO ALL CREDITORS. Tho Settlor. Harley Simonds, (date of birth) 1-3­ 1927, who lived at 12 Little Long Lake, Hickory Comers. Mich 49060. died Sept 18,2020. There Is no personal representative of the settlor's estate to whom Letters of Administration have been Issued. Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the trust of Harley Simonds Trust dated Feb. 13. 2012. as amended, will, be forever banned unless presented to Norma Quick, Successor Trustee, within four months after the data of publication. Notice is further given that the Trust will thereafter be assigned and distributed to the persons entitled to it. Date. October 13, 2020 Norma Quick, Successor Trustee 717 S. Grove St Delton. Ml 49046 269-623-5919 152420 STATE OF MICHIGAN BARRY COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT CASE NO. 20-787-CH HON. VICKY L ASPAUGH LEE SHUMWAY, as Trustee cl tho Douglas & Christine Shumway Living Restated Trust under a Declaration of Trust dated August 23, 2004, as amended, •v Plaintiff, .-.-v ........ » V. LEGACY, continued from page 1 yearbook described him as “an enthusiastic outdoorsman" with “a fine sense of humor." He played football and baseball as a senior and also participated in thc school’s senior play. He attended Baker College in Muskegon after high school. As a youth, Parker was a camp counselor at Camp Pendalouan. a YMCA camp in Montague, just north of Muskegon. He would later take his sons and grandsons to the Father and Son Camp there. Parker was part of the committee that launched the varsity soccer program at Thomapple Kellogg High School, and he coached all three of his sons in thc local I American Youth Soccer Organization I. program. J Parker served on the Thomapple Kellogg * school board from 1991 to 2003, being < president for five of those years. I Don Haney, administrator of Thomapple I Manor senior care facility in Hastings, served « with Parker on the school board. » “Dan was a great guy. There were many • lessons that he taught me,” Haney said in a ♦ telephone interview Monday. “He was a great * mentor for me that I still refer to today. J One of the traditions Parker started as a * school board member was offering a breakfast I at his home for the district’s bus drivers t during the holiday season. i “After they’d park (heir buses from the f morning run, they’d go across the street to his 1 house. He and Linda would have breakfast • ready for them.” Haney said. “A few of us ! board members helped out. but they did rhe I bulk of the work, and opened up their home to :thCInUSAugusL Parker won the Republican ‘primary to be Thomapple Jo^iP I supervisor, defeating Enc Schaefer, 673-568 i andean unopposed in the November general I eleMonday. Schaefer was appoint to be .he •n£"XwXha«l.ofin. He has :ServX community in so nuny ways and j LnS h^y^^Ss^mcmauon -I loved h.s heart lor pari« ™ of . and how it enhanced aur ,n hQw ! life. He was a true role mouci ; to serve your con,,"un^' in being an active ; “He (aught me the ^nf^7ngformation conununity. I working with < listener, going to the ! and being accessible I J j Township. He will tru y : Parker served .wo unts he counly D.s|rjt( 2 - board: 20JO-12 and -.j.| Vj||e lbeportion ; includes lhe village of M-37 .and ; of Thomapple 1‘>wnslJlP )rth of M-179. ! Yankee Springs f"wnb ur community.” "He was dedicated to our outgoing Thomapple Township Supervisor Mike Bremer said. “He was conscientious. He was involved. His faith and Christian background helped him make good decisions for our community.” “Our hearts are broken in losing Dan Parker,” Commissioner Ben Geiger said. “But he wouldn’t want us to be sad. He would want us to find peace. “In this dark hour, we can find peace in seeing his legacy all around us. It’s in lhe Middleville neighborhoods he helped build. It’s in parks and trails he made possible. It’s in the thriving TK School District he pushed it lo be.” As a county commissioner, one of the areas where Parker look a key leadership role was expanding broadband service throughout the County. He backed the successful application earlier this year of MEI/Barry County Services Company to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which approved $11.8 million in grants and loans for the company to expand fiber-based broadband over a 127-squarc-mile area of the county, taking in portions of 10 townships. In Middleville, Parker served on the village planning commission for eight years and the zoning board of appeals for two years. He was on thc Middleville Village Council for four years, from November 2005 until September 2009, when he ran for village president. He finished second to fellow council member Charlie Pullen in a four-way race. Pullen went on lo serve Middleville as village president for the next 11 years before he died Nov. 20 of complications from COVID-19. Parker was president of Zenas Corporation, a company that publishes Christian membership directories lo seven Michigan cities. Parker also was a member of the Middleville Rotary Club for 31 years, serving as its president in 2008-09, Rotary Club publicist Bob Williams said. Parker is survived by his wife, Linda (Tennant) Parker; and children, Scott (Moon) Parker, Josh (Ivanna) Parker, Maria (Matt) Hall, and Dan (Laura) Parker; grandchildren, Morgan Hall, Isaiah Parker, Judah Parker, Shepherd Parker, Uriah Parker, Isabel Hall* Viggo Parker, Logan Hall, Elijah Parker^ Charlotte Parker, Amy Parker, Madelyn Parker, Evelyn Parker, Felicia Parker; sisters, Colleen (Tom) Smith and Vicki (Jacobus) Maas; and several nieces. A private funeral was planned for 11 a.m. today, which was to be livestreamed through lhe Bceler-Gores Funeral Home Facebook page. Visitation look place Wednesday at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Caledonia. Memorial donations may lie made to St. Paul Lutheran Church, the village of Middleville, Middleville Rotary, or the needs of Parker’s family. ’ ) ' *. UNKNOWN OWNER erho* or his unknown heirs, devisees, or assignees, Defendant. Sara Lachman (P67523) Lachman Stuart PLC Attorneys for Plaintiff 15 Ionia SW, Suite 520 Grand Rapids, Ml 49503 616.208 5533 slachman@lachmanstuart.com ORDER GRANTING PLAINTIFFS VERIFIED MOTION EQR ALTERNATIVE SERVICE UNDER MCR 2.106(D) This action involves a Scrivener’s error in a deed’s property description for real property located in Barry County, Michigan, described as follows: Commencing at the northwest comer of Sec­ tion 35, town 4 north, range 10 west, for a place of beginning, thence south 21 chains 70 links, thonce east to tho bank of lhe river 41 chains, 30 links, thence northwesterly along the west bank of said river to post No. 6 United States Survey, lhence west on section line to place of beginning, EXCEPTING THEREFROM commencing at the northwest comer of said section 35, lhence south on section line 15 rods 10 feet, thence oast to center cl highway, thence northwesterly along center of said highway to section line, thonce due west along said section line to place of be­ ginning. ALSO EXCEPTING therefrom a parcel of land conveyed to Charles H Ring and Marion C. Ring as recorded in Liber 151 of deeds on page 597 and ALSO EXCEPTING therefrom a parcel conveyed to Vinal V. Tabor and Evelyn Ta­ bor, as recorded in Ubef 207 of deeds on page 242, being part of the northwest 1/4 of section 35, town 4 north, range 10 west. Thomapple Township, Barry County. Michigan. In the underlying action, the Plaintiff, Lee Shum­ way. as the Trustee of lhe Douglas and Christine Shumway Restated Trust, under a Declaration of Trust dated August 23.2004, as amorxlod (Trustee') seeks to correct the Property s description and quiet title to the property in the Trust or, in me alternative, obtain title over tho orphan stnp of property that was inadvertently created in fa*°r of the Trust based on STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate FILE NO. 20028639-DE Estate of Olga Fleischer. Date of birth: June 18. 1923. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Olga Fleischer, died December 18,2017. Creditors of the decedent aro notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Patricia Lynn Fleischer Gibson, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street #302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and tho personal representative within 4 months after lhe date of publication of this notice. Dato: December 9. 2020 Thav, Ryko & Associates Dawn Santamarina P81878 24725 W Twelve Mile Road Southfield, Ml 48034 (248)945-1111 Patricia Lynn Fleischer Gibson 1631 Yeckley Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-4184 152546 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any Information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Notice of foreclosure by advertisement Notice is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961. 1961 PA 236. MCL 600.3212. that the following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County. Michigan, starting promptly at one o'clock In the afternoon on Thursday, the 14th day of January. 2021. The amount duo on the mort­ gage may be greater on the day of the sale. Racing tho highest bid at the sale doos not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and dear ownership of the property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title Insurance company, either of which may charge a feo for this information. The mortgage was made by KRISTA ANN SHEL­ DON. a single woman (•Mortgagor'), to GREEN­ STONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES, FLCA. a feder­ ally chartered corporation, having an office at 3515 West Road. East Lansing. Michigan 48823 (the •Mortgagee’), dated July 17.2009. and recorded in the office of tho Register of Deeds for Barry Coun­ ty. Michigan on July 24. 2009, as Instrument No. 200907240007681 (the ’Mortgago*). By reason of a default under the conditions of tho Mortgage, the Mortgagee elects to dodare and hereby dedaros tho entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee Is the owner of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage. As of tho date of this Notice there is daimed to be due for prindpal and interest on the Mortgage tho sum of Sixty Nine Thousand Eight Hundred Eight Six and 05/100 Dollars ($69,886.05). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. The premises covered by tho Mortgage aro situ­ ated in tho Township of Thomapple. County of Bar­ ry State of Michigan, and are described as follows: ’ Lot 21. Sandy Knolls, according to the recorded plat thereof in Uber 5 of Plats. Pago 59 of Barry ^P^MCR 2.1050)- ^i3a^Ufd lPerrnlt’ 860400 County Records . Together with all fixtures, tenements, heredita­ ments. and appurtenances belonging or in any way appertaining to tho Prerni5<’s/’<S _ . Commonly known as: 2092 Fawn Avenue, Mid­ dleville, Michigan 49333 P.P. #08-14-120-020-00 Notice Is further given that the length of the re­ demption period will be six (6) months from tho dato of sale, unless tho premises aro abandoned. If the promises are abandoned, tho redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from the date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days af­ ter the Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA 6600.32413(b) that tho premises aro considered abandoned and Mortgagor. Mortgagor's heirs, ex­ ecutor. or administrator, or a person lawfully claim­ ing from or under one (1) of them has not given tho written notice required by MCLA §600.3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned. If lhe premisos aro sold at a foreclosure sale, under MCLA §600.3278 the Mortgagor will be held responsible to the person who buys lhe premises at the mortgage foreclosure sale or to the Mortgagee for damaging the promises during the redemption of process lo be made► «n franco with MCR 2 106(D). such that servC® * ^?eQms<* complete upon Plaintiff publishing a contents of this Order once each K.^uon p!?V° woeks ln tho Hastings Banner (the S*™') 3. No mailing under MCR Z^D)^ l3 necessary period. Attention homeowner: If you are a military ser­ vice member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago, or if you have been ordered lo active duty, please contact the attorney for the party foreclosing the Mortgage at the telephone number stated in this notice. adverse possession. Defendant is an unknown person or her or his un­ known heirs, devisees, or assignees, who may claim an interest in me property Because the identity of anyone who may claim sucn an interest Is unknown and presently unknowab-e, in the present motion tho Trusteo seeks this Court s authorization to effect service of process through pu ication In accordance with MCR 2.106(D). o ( Based upon the fads in the Plaintiff’s Verified Motion for Service Under MCR 2.106(D) and being otherwise fully lf1,?n?hn Court finds that the Trusteo has sufficiently n that service of pro­ cess cannot reasonably be m ® upon Defendant in a manner provided under_MCR 2 1o5. THEREFORE. IT IS ORpERcD that: . 1. Trustee's Verified Motion for Alternative Service as there Is no last ^^/Lfnolaint k, 4. II no Answer to U* with this Court and served ^I|CattOn p v*,lbin 21 days o’ the last date of the j^*1'thls 000(1 shall enter a Default and Judgment in favor of Plaintiff. J IS SO ORDERED Q Dated: November 30,20 Hon. Vicky L At.pu^ t POod.ne claim or close the case 152163 Dated: December 3. 2020 GREENSTONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES. FLCA Mortgagee Timothy HiHegonds WARNER NORCROSS ♦ JUDD LLP 150 Onawa Avenue NW Sle. 1500 Grand Rapids. Ml 49503-2487 51660 (616)752-2000 210136611 Various council members clarified °Ifs no. asking the questions - Us jus. dunking and coming up with 0>e queshons. So?they can come in and l.s.en and they cheat and spy on us and prepare. Fisk joked. dTn’t need to cheat. You guys can have ^^Yd'nn^you would - or Tuesday’s meeting with draft quesl ions to share with one another to start a d,^““‘onn “I just want it to be so we can get to know both of you and know what inspires you the knowledge you have. That s it. mi said. "And I think that the pubhc deserves that. I’m a new councilman, I have no idea where to go with this, so I just think it s the right choice - even if it’s a public meeting think we should ask the questions. “I’m not necessarily hurt if you guys listen in and prepare for it. But I think, at the end of day, everyone will be best served by that [meeting].” . Thc next regular village council meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Jan. 12. At that meeting, the questions prepared from next Tuesday’s special meeting will be asked and discussed with the two candidates. “The better candidate will win at that point, I believe,” Smilh said. STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent’s Estate Estate of Kevin D. Ballard. Date of birth: 08/28/1957. TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS: The decedent. Kevin D. Ballard, died 11/15/2020 Creditors of the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will be forever barred unless presented to Jeremy Ballard, personal representative, or to both the probate court at 206 W. Court Street #302, Hastings, Ml 49058 and the personal representative within 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 12/15/2020 Rachael M. Roseman P78917 100 Monroo Center NW Grand Rapids, Ml 49503 616-774-8000 Jeremy Ballard 215 Brook Street Lowell. Ml 49331 616-970-6614 152629 Notice of Foreclosure by Advertisement Notice Is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961,1961 PA 236. MCL 600.3212, that tho following mortgage will be foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction safe to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, starting prompt­ ly al 1:00 PM. on January 14. 2021. The amount due on the mortgage may be greater on the day of sale. Placing the highest bid at tho sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and dear ownership of tho property. A potential purchaser ts encouraged to contact lhe county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge a fee for this Information: Name(s) of lhe mortgagor(s): Ronald J. Hermenitt and Ruby M. Hermenitt. husband and wife Original Mortgagee: Ditech Finandal LLC FKA Green Tree Servicing LLC F/K/A CONSECO FI­ NANCE SERVICING CORP. Foredosing Assignee (if any): U.S. Bank National Assodation, as Trustee, for Manufactured Housing Contract Senior/Subord-nate Pass-Through Certifi­ cate Trust 2000-5 Date of Mortgage: June 13, 2000 Data of Mortgage Recording: June 21.2000 Amount daimed due on date of notice: $86,581.01 Description of the mortgaged premises: Situated in Township of Orangeville, Barry County, Michi­ gan. and described as: That Part of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 20. Town 2 North, Range 10 West, desenbed as- Commendng at tho Northeast comer of said Section; thence South 89 degrees 59 min­ utes West 1009.17 feet along the North hne of said Northeast 1/4 to the Centerline of Undsey road; thence South 08 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds West 33.35 feet along said Centerline to the place of beginning; thence North 89 degrees 59 m nutos East 233.00 feet; thence South 08 degrees 17 min­ utes 30 seconds West 220.00 feet; thence South 89 degrees 59 minutes West 233.00 feet; thence North 08 degrees 17 minutes 30 seconds East 220.0 fset along said Centerline to tho place of beginning. , Common street address (if any): 11224 Ronald Ln. Delton, Ml 49046-7764 Tho redemption period shall be 6 months from the dato of such sale, unless determined aban­ doned In accordance with MCL 600.3241a, or, if the subject real property is used for agricultural purpos­ es as defined by MCL 600.3240(16). If tho property is sold at foreclosure sa.e under Chapter 32 of tho Revised Judicature Ad of 1961, pursuant to MCL 600 3278 the borrower will be held responsible to lhe person who buys me property al the mortgage foreclosure sale or to me mortgage holder for damaging the property during the re­ demption period. Attention homeowner. If you are a m -tary service member on active duty, if your period of active duty has concluded less than 90 days ago. or if you have been ordered to active duty, please contact mo at­ torney for the party foreclosing the mortgage at the telephone number staled in this notice. This notice is from a debt collector. Date of notice; November 26,2020 Trott Law. PC. 31440 Northwestern Hwy. Suite 145 Farmington Hills, Ml 48334 (248) 642-2515 1425393 (11-26)(12-17) 151499 �2020 Fall flll-Barry County £piker score a«-state spots Four Vikings and one Brvtt Brcmci Sporhhihtor . For the fourth fall in a row the I akewood High School volleyball ,hls freshman among thc roughly 250 all-state honor in Division 2. A group of live Barry’ County varsity volley ba 11 players were among lhe award vvin- jun'iorloni,d<lll!Wocl!<:rAubrcy ° Gon"an nn<l ners as the Michigan Intcrscholnstie Volleyball C'?„Opposi'<>M*hincrMaradithO(;(>rn,an Coaches Association (MIVCA) announced its with ."T1 ,5rs| ,C!im all-state in Division 2, fJsh.,; Pl'"n,or<-- setter Skylar Bump iln,| 2020 all-stale teams Monday. K,n libero Carley Piercefield earning ____ group ol lour Lakew<x>d Vikings were------PAubn ,he 02 a,, Male sca’nd ,Ca,nuorey O’Gomtnn ha< P’ans to continue daysnt Michigan State University i season. Aubrey was thin! (earn all-state •1 a freshman in class B in 2017 and Wils a 'tM team all-slate sc|ection in 2018 and 2019 Thi ,S,2n 2 a,on8 with her s,stcr M:ir;u,i,h. 's >s the second straight second team alle award for t)unip. VMi ne S,aIc University bound Maple a,,cy senior Keilyn Carpenter was named second team all-stale in Division 3. Carpenter 'as ',on°rable mention nil-stale as a sophonoru in 2018 and third team all-state as a junior in 2019. P’is is the fourth counsecutive year in uhich the Lakewood program has a freshman c;,n,ing all-state accolades. It is a rare honor. any where but at Lakewood. Bump was one of three freshmen all-state honorees in the state 1,1 Maradiih was one of five freshmen Ute list in 2018. Aubrey w as one of seven -.017. Maradith is one ofjust two freshmen girls in Michigan to cam first team all-state accolades during that four-year span. - -LC ■ < All four Lakewood all-staters are members of Far Out Volleyball Club national teams, as is Carpenter for the first time this winter. Lakewood varsity head coach Cameron Rowland is the assistant director of Far Out, and coaches the program’s 14 Black national a u -a Carpenter. (File pheto) * ONLINE- $52 for 12 mo, Start O Renew $10 for 1 mo * HOME DELIVERY- (Barry County) — $52 for 12 mo. Start O Renew O $10 for 1 mo * HOME DELIVERY- $60 for 12 mo Start Renew $10 for 1 mo l_ (Allegan, Calhoun, Eaton, Ionia, Kalamazoo & Kent Counties) * HOME DELIVERY- $65 for 5 mo or more Start Renew $10 for 1 mo lI (Outside above counties) Recipient ______________________________________________________ Street Address City__ ________________________________ _________________________ Stale__________________ Z>P------------------------------------------------------JPhone----- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------Sent by -------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- CJpiease send a card 0Enclosed is a check for $52 (12 mo) or $10 (1 mo) or amount for home delivery’ rj PI EASE BILL MY CREDIT CARD: D\is.< "iMasterCard ^Discover Credt Card Number Expiration DateSecurity Code Mail to or drop offal J-Ad Graphics Box 188/1351 N. M-43 Hwy, Hastings, MI 49058 269-945-9554 outside hitter Payton Rice from the 1-8. lhe conference, which is home to the Hastings Saxons. also saw Jackson Northwest senior outside hitter Hcnly Sleight earned second team all-state in Division I. The Lakewood Indies and Carpenter weren’t thc only Greater Lansing Activities Conference volleyball players honored lamsing Christian senior outside hitter Ashley Nordamann was named first team all-state in Division 4. with Pilgrims’junior outside hitter on thc all-stale second team. The Southwestern Athletic Conference, home to Delton Kellogg, saw Schoolcraft senior middle blocker Maggie Morris and senior setter Kayla Onken earn first team all­ state honors in Division 3. and senior middle blocker Anna Schitppel earn a spot on the all­ state second team and senior libero Keiby Goldschmeding named to the all-slate third team along with Kalamazoo Christian senior outside hitter zXvcry Ekkens and Hackett Catholic Prep senior opposite side hitter Krystina Kasson. Saugatuck junior outside hitter Aerin Baker and senior outside hitter Zoe Myers and Watervliet sophomore outside hitter Samantha Dietz were named honorable mention all-state in Division 3. as was Schoolcraft senior oppo­ site side hitter Allie Goldschmeding. Senior setter Riley Hoffman from Forest Hills Eastern was thc only OK Gold Conference all-state honoree this fall, earning a spot on Division 2's third team. Full lists of the 2020 all-state honorees can be found online at mivca.net/all state/. season through Jan. 1 I Lakewood senior Aubrey O’Gorman, sophomore Skylar Bump and junior Maradith O'Gorman (from left) were among honorees as MIVCA announced the 2020 all-state volleyball award winners this week Each of the three Vikings has earned all-stale honors in every one of their high school seasons. They were joined among the honorees by freshman teammate Carley Piercefield and Maple Valley senior Keilyn team. He calls Pierccficld the best libero he has ever coached. Picrcelield. was thc only freshman to make an all-slate learn in lhe state of Michigan this fall, with four others earning honorable men­ tion all-state nods across the four divisions. She averaged more than five digs |>cr set this season, and has more than 500 digs so far this season. North Branch had iwo freshmen girls earn honorable mention all-state in Division 2 this fall, outside hitter Alana Deshetsky and libero Hailey Green. Athens middle blocker Kamryn Partin and Plymouth Christian middle blocker Allison Pilat were named honorable mention all-state in Division 4. The Lakewood Vikings arc still alive in the Division 2 state tournament, and thc MHSAA is still working to get the quarterfinal, semifi­ nal and final rounds of the 2020 volleyball tournament concluded. The MHSAA’s Representative Council was set to meet yes­ terday (Dec. 16) to update the schedule for when play may possibly resume. Lakewood is one of four schools with two players on the Division 2 all-state first team, joined by Grand Rapids Christian, Marshall, Notre Dame Prep and Marshall. Lake wood defeated lhe Marshall girls, members of lhe Interstale-8 Athletic Conference, in the regional semifinals of lhe state tournament. The Red Hawks arc represented by senior outside hitler Abby Welke and senior middle blocker Olivia Webber. Marshall sophomore libero Ella McAllister earned a spot on lhe Division 2 all-state third team along with Harper Creek sophomore Lite antlcrless fire/w deer season began Monday in Michigan? Lower Peninsula. The season is open on private lands only through Jan. I and hunters may lake only ant­ lerless deer (see exception below) — regard­ less of the type of license you are using. Valid licenses include: A private land antlerless license valid for the deer management unit in which you are hunting. A deer management assistance pennit valid for that DMU. A deer license or deer combo license (valid for antlerless deer only during the anllerless-only seasons). A deer kill tag issued under the mentored youth license (valid for antlcrless deer only during the antlerless-only seasons). An additional opportunity is available for deer hunters in Zone 3 (see page 11 of the Hunting Digest for hunting zone maps and descriptions) who want to hunt with a muzzle­ loader on public land during the late antlcrless season. Those hunting with a muzzleloader on public land in Zone 3 only, you may take any deer (antlerless or antlered) with a mentored youth hunting license, a deer license or a deer combo license. Hunters hunting with a muz­ zleloader on public land in Zone 3 may also hunt with their public land antlcrless deer license valid for the DMU in which they arc bunting, but an antlcrless deer license is valid for an antlcrless deer only. The late antlerless firearm deer season in the Lower Peninsula is open. Archery deer season also continues through Jan. I statewide. DNR deer check stations are still available on a limited basis. Check station locations and hours of operation are available at Michigan. gov/DeerCheck. The DNR especially needs deer heads from Alcona,/Mpena. Cheboygan. Crawford. Iosco, Montmorency. Ogemaw. Oscoda.Otsego, Presque Isle and Roscommon counties. Hunters in those areas are Diked to please bring their deer to a DNR check sta­ tion. PARKER, continued from page 1 '‘I’m sure many of you are stunned and saddened by Dan’s passing. Dan is a very prominent victim of COVID-19 and he will not surely be forgotten soon.... 'I hose that are living will have to find a way to carry on.” ”... There are many, many other victims of this disease that we need to reinember: Those who have died; those who have lost their loved ones; those who have lost jobs; those who are losing their rights.” “People continue to be victimized by this the board durin,, public comment, 1 was going through vfdeo of former meetings in plague in many ways,” Gross said. “Things anticipation of the neaceable assembly sse like job loss and violation of enumerated he'd Sunday ;' 7“ rights are lhe responsibilities of the board lo ;‘5r«smyf;iVoti^n^eIllofallthemeetmgs uphold, not just the public health laws. “Each member of the board took an oath I ve attended with n-m Parker. "h "tts durin. db msion «" fW to the United Stales Constitution and thc State Public tinmen ‘ t.Xiedlhat er of Michigan. I implore you to remember your reallv h ut n • D . । liscussion between oath and the duties that come along with those iwo rncmlx*^ fSSye " blic bu<,nore s0 wilh oaths. I also implore you not to forget those * "*>..... who are still suffering in this pandemic.” Thornapple Manor Administrator Don Haney expressed his condolences to Parker’s through my these meetings it wife, Linda, and the Parker family, adding, ”1 'o use a tWn',C',>!‘"“l>m S“re ,1,;",bC lh“'' first met Dan in 2()(X) when I joined (he is k«Ping ^'nt^ ispcak.ro like to Ihomappk* Kellogg school board, lie taught remain siL ,cvc'1 "'(the duration of my me man) lessons along lhe way. He was a 3 minutes ‘ V* ,V' ,1U,d ".C great mentor, a great leader. Vety supportive v,ctims like ■ honor m as those currently ol Middleville and Barry County. ... He’s a 6 ""i vieM'jZ,:d byS,hi‘ ’’■"im-'to I’31' l>arU’r big loss to this county and this community.” Inward the end of the meeting, commissioners shared their leeiings with each Alter m I’L'ase call "pf si|encc, Aaron other. Cross Of j,h,,’c nioim"1' ( condolences to Jon Sniclker remarked. “As you Pmker’'t „ '''CsollereJ ' commissioners know, there’s sometimes I can lluly 4nd frKn‘J the words. Commissioner Ben Geiger said, "I spent a lot of tears this weekend. Ifl)a" was l,e,e now, he’d say ‘What are vou gujs crymg about?- He had such a po«ti'e a'‘iIu1dc " f flte board meeting, the last for commissioners this sear, followed lhe l.'nca'; progression of agenda items- but memories of i^^,|a„d Township to'd get pretty fired up ... I just want to say Mr Parker was extremely good al bringing me down. I’m going to try my best io act to more like him.’' "Our hearts are heavy.” Commissioner Dave Jackson said. ”... He was a big teddy bear. ... It was obvious that D<m was in the right business, ‘cause he loved people. ... He had a big heart lor Christ. As a fellow Rotarian, he lived by some of things we teach - is it fair to all concerned; does it build good will and better friendships - Dan lived that.” “I was just sluKkcd last week lo hear [ot his deathl,” Jackson added 'A\e were all pulling for him to come through. We wanted lo give him one more hug and welcome him back. But God had better plans. But he will be in our hearts and minds and, by golly, we’re going to carry on his vision for broadband for Barry County, as well, because that was one of thc thing. be was passionate about.” Catherine Geliy ot Wayland, who was elected to the District 2 *eat alter Parker decided to run for Thornipple Township supervisor, saiJ. "I’m humbled by support lhe county residents gave me in voting me to replace Dan Parker. I just w ant to express Iny condolences as many have done today “Dan was a role model for svfvicv in his church, in his community. in bjs c n . Everyone he met, he was wi||ing lo hand lo. •■|>1eh„llenP.-allo|l,su>l|l( hve up to his wfienoKe and exalnpltf “ � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-12-24.pdf f9d90502309820117fe9f9fdf6ccdd5e PDF Text Text Hastings Public Library vaccinations in start Wednesdav Story on Page 10 Makin* and checking• y ill sports to finish up without spectators See Story on Page 12 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since 1856 .................CAR-RT LOT“C 003 C003 Hasrngs Puttie Library 227 E State St Hastings Ml 49058-1954 ANNER flAo 1 UNUO , LTtuP&’No-51 ~~~ ~ P7-' ~~ -------~~ ~~ ~ PRICE SI-00 — Quality Aluminum Products expands in Hastings The front office section of the facility, which faces Cook Road, is still available for lease. Taylor Owens Staff Writer A local manufacturing business is expand­ ing its footprint in Hastings after experiencing growth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Quality Aluminum Products has signed a multi-year agreement to lease about 4O.(XX) square feet of the former Hastings Fiberglass Products facility on Cook Road. ‘•We're going to use lite building for our receiving, as well as inventory' management and inventory build-up of key items,” QAP President Bob Clark said. “Quality Aluminum is excited to be partnering with the people of Hitslings Fiberglass.” The company moved into the building. Quality Aluminum Products President Bob Clark stands next to raw materials stored at his company's new facility on Cook Road (Photos by Taylor Owens) which is about a mile from the main plant, late last week. Operations there will start small, with four or five of the company’s 160 employees al the warehouse, but there are plans to add more functionality, he said. “Il’s going to start off with raw material, and then a staging area for some of our fin­ ished goods that will go out in truckload quan tities, and then followed by some light pro­ duction. light manufacturing.” Clark said. Quality Aluminum Products sells nearly all of its siding to the residential housing market, which is expanding, and construction compa- See EXPANDS, page 3 Battle of th© Bulbs winders mate season brighter Sophie Bates Staff Writer Cindy Johnson and her staff al Delton Pole Building Supplies Inc., like many of those v. ho participated in the Battle of the Bulbs competition, has been putting up light dis­ plays for years. It began as a way for Johnson and her employee- to participate in Delton's Hometown Christmas celebrations and spread ,-i little cheer in their community. -We like being part of Delton. Delton is a •*ood community . . and we like to be bright ami cheery. And the people driving through - particularly the local people that drive thromih all day long or at night — it just make*. >ome Mttiles.They just like it. • it’s something cheery that makes us a little more than a lumberyard.*’ The display bathes Delton Pole Building Supplies Inc. in blue, red and yellow lights, with lit up snowmen, trees made from pallets, and a wreath adding more Christmas cheer, j he display earned the business a commemo­ rative trophy and title of first-place business in the first ever Battle of the Bulbs competi­ tion. a coumy-wide light display competition for both businesses and residences. Credit for the win goes to her employees. Johnson said. • 1 he guys like to decorate, and 1 let the guys do what they want to do as far as the lights and decorations, and so they get all the credit,” Johnson said. “The local people always tell us how nice it looks outside al night in the dark ... And now they’re already telling me ‘Can you leave lhem up longer this year?'” Johnson said she is happy to be able to spread holiday cheer during such a trying year and praised all Battle of the Bulbs competitors for doing the same. “I’m just glad for all the people that entered in. I give praise for everyone — not just the winners — because every little thing just makes the season, you know, brighter with this difficult year. And I’m glad that so many places did participate in something pos­ itive during a troubled time,” Johnson said. Johnson’s observation gets to the core of why the Barry County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development hosted the com­ petition. “Our goal in hosting this competition was to create a safe holiday event that could bring some joy to Barry' County, especially during the holidays,” chamber President Jennifer Heinzman said. The competition launched in early November, inviting county businesses and residents to send in photos or videos of their outdoor holiday light displays. Winners were determined by the number of "like< each photo or video received once posted on the chamber’s Facebook page Dec. 14. For residences, the Foster family, at 526 W. Green St Hastings, took first place with a display of bright green lights covering the entire facade of their two-story home. Red lights windine around the home s front col­ umns and a sign of white lights reading • Peace" stand out as accents against the green background. .. ... , "I absolutely lose it! 1 have been l ellmgl others to go see it." Siephan.e Howell com­ mented on a Facebook Photo of the Fosters home. “I laughed out loud the first time we drove by it' I said to my hubby - he was «. 1“ . laughing emoji. Ihe Fos|ers ^;)%SBu^-7hir,ci,,cs,rca,ed,‘s in iwri) । businesses. “^""winners Mike and Stacy Second-place } in Bany Bucks for Sheldon received ~ 1O25 N Miehigan eir 360-degrvt t ve.. Hasting*'available surface outside cover nearly every “ See BULBS, page 2 Recent empty nesters Mike and Stacy .» •Sl’SSS 1 *• - ~ d“- ” ” *• much as we do. (Photo oy * y / S*" - «*• •*» Ptocess of constructing their 360 degree tsp r y, Stacy Sheldon said. The couple fin.shed second >n the Ban whh 161 likes on the video of their display. (Phot P somany memories'; । the Bolns competition �2 - Thur^y. December 24. ™ Hastings flanner ilULBS, continued from page 1 Sheldon's home - iB^rhonw. decorating their yanl • She don s. 'd u hul t|.s " « I*"*'" ,,f our • ' We - rapped tree minks, bushes and ^'Xe 6.^-be out of chicken w ire trapped tn hghrs We even lacked taeles up Yh, ceiling ot our poah. We added an 8-fooi buck on the upper part of the yard Watching over the «•*«'> that is curiously checking out a ball of light." Sheldon said. ■-Mv husband and I are recently empty nestso t!”s is ^w,hinP we <lo,n!’ liahL n? °^n 8 disp,ay‘ consisting of several inflatable decorations and multicolored Winninn , a thild'place finish in lhe competition with 143 likes on Fac®book, havinn ° a P a5® s de,lni,e|y not necessary, but it's a fun little competition, and I loved -°^Th)s. it’s so tun to see the awe on our ;j«n<lkids‘ faces. 11 is ako fun Io sec our girls Jhitke their heads and think we are just a little aving peop|e drive by and voting," Olin said. (Photo courtesy of Michelle Olin). £rtzy " . Sheldon said putting up the display was a Delton Pole Building Supplies Inc.bright won lights first place ,■ . ihe of lhe Bulbs competition. Their and chin "e business portion of iurat way to spend quality lime with her hus- Battle likes for the win. (Photo courtesy of Delton Pole Buildin e$fUl decorat,ons earned 135 even when they were disagreeing. ’-.“We really lK>pe it takes their minds off tvjrnthing that has been negative in 2020 and jljvcs them something positive and brings them joy." she said. “We really hojx* people are getting out with their families and just driving around. There are so many great dis­ plays ” Michelle Olin came in third place with a small army of inflatable* — including The Grinch. a snowman, unicorn and more — out­ lined by a backdrop of multicolored lights banging from her house at 528 E. William St., Hastings. This is her 16th year lighting up the house, and some of the decorations are in memory of her mother who lost a nearly three-year battle with colon cancer a few months ago. “She lived with us during that lime, and Christmas was her favorite holiday. Every year, she helped us decorate and make it mag­ ical for her grandkids.” Olin said. “Some of our displays that are special this year is the colon cancer ribbon made for the Relay for Life two years ago and is lit up year-round; a beautiful new homemade light-up angel.” She and her family began pulling the dis­ play together at lhe start of November without Knowing about the competition. “I love how this impacts our community The Foster Family won the Battle of the Bulbs competition with this bright green and seeing all the homes put up lights this year as it helps bring joy to so manj during display, earning 181 likes on Facebook for the win these difficult times,” Olin said. “1 hope this tradition continues this strongly for many he’s glad the competition brought some cheer third-place win. years to come’.” David Solmes. owner of Dewey's Auto into the community. Olin received $75 in Barry Bucks for her “We want to pivjnote people decorating Body, which sponsored the competition, said and .shining a tilth ligrt out?’ After receiving positive community engagement or the competition. Heinzman said the chamber intends to continue hosting the Battle of the Bulbs in the future. “I think our first-ever Battle of the Bulbs Michelle Olin and her family pose for a photo in front of their Christmas lights. The family has put up a Christmas display for the past 16 years, but this year the display had a special significance. Olin’s mother — who loved Christmastime — lost her battle with cancer several months ago. (Photo provided). was a success.” Heinzman said. “It has been a fun way to bring the community together and is a great way to recognize many of the beautifully decorated homes in the community.” Extension of indoor dining ten impacts Bocal restaurants Luke Fronchcck Staff Writer and Bridge Magazine Bowen’s Family Dining restaurant in Delton remained open Tuesday for in-person dining, according to a post this week on their Facebook page. But the Grove Street Cafe in Delton closed in-person dining services Friday, according to Barry-Eaton District Health Department. A post on their Facebook page said lhe business was open for take-out, curbside and delivery. Efforts by The Banner to reach the business owners were unsuccessful. The Perfect Gift for the Person that has Everything When Gov. Gretchen Whitmer extended a ban on in-person dining Monday. Dec. 7, both restaurants had been welcoming in-person customers. * ONLINE- $52 for 12 mo, Start Renew $10 for 1 mo O Their decision to continue to offer in-per­ HOME DELIVERY- (Barry County) son dining, despite the governor’s order, $52 for 12 mo, Start Renew $10 fori mo attracted area residents to gather for a Dec. 12 protest at Grove Street Cafe «’> support of the * HOME DELIVERY- $60 for 12 mo Start Renew 0 $10 for 1 mo Delton businesses. .. (Allegan, Calhoun, Eaton, Ionia, Kalamazoo & Kent Counties) But the continuation of in-person dining at * HOME DELIVERY- $65 for 5 mo or more Start Renew both restaurants prompted the state to issue cease-and-desist orders that carry lines o| $10 for 1 mo (Outside above counties) M.000 a day, Banv-baton District Health Department Community Hwlth 1 Specialist Sarah Surna saidRecipient —_ The health department B work,n? w,th other state departments to discourage m-pcrStreet Address ^on dining, Surna said. , f ..... it is our understanding diat J StreaCafd) havX. closed hCity dining since Friday" sbe si"?' ’ Zip State 7«’«inS open and in viiil-*0" d«“ m (Onler) fn.nt us and a ^"ncm of __ Sent by Phone from MDARD IMichi£an i n .u Agriculture and RllroJ IX-'^s'iMichigan n J" v“’li“>on of the b 1 ,,,‘scrvicesl Department of Health and Huin order." . .­ CJpiease send a card ^Enclosed is a check for $52 (12 mo) or $10 (1 n. , ••it tflV isswtf tines । lhe future. MDHHS ... Bo«en's or amount for home delivery’ >d MDARD may suspendl,r O PLEASE BILL MY CREDIT CARD: Chlsa OMasterCard ODi^ license, she added. unnounced Bowen's Family Dinin? >'4' ej for the Credt Card Number------------------------------------------- __------------------------------^■."day that they’ would ,C,‘W __ _______ Security Code__ __ ________ Wlidays from 24 ', announced Expiration Date-------------------------And last |.tld ^Irii.iie' ■ a(k)w J-Ad Graphics Mai! to or drop off at ^,~vinl? rc^trrce classes rus test positivity COVID-19 hospiblcases, admissions, Robertand Gordon MDHHS likely not be immediate. many have already moved to online Because instruction because ; Gift a Subscription of the Hastings Banner 1 flfl/Hsi N. M-43 Hwy, Hastings, MI 49058 PO Box 1 269-945-9554 . h rv kOiiruiH sutecripiion online at U.u-W. hast ingshanner.com and 'V 100 s ,o rcsnnie J31’" „na s and cii'i' l,ov,c theaters. Ixnvlin? “ .nnitations nw. f°^lxn this weekpro^.s, 1 'se substantially sil'h", protocol ""I serionslv erU^ ""S holidays t'<>" j’ A <lcl*n<ls „ "'“'O P"''>><ngU),|le l"’“ „incoronavijdr.'P‘' tions — but it prohibits establishments from selling food or drink to be consumed inside these businesses. In doing so, the ban on indoor dining and bars that had been due to expire Monday will continue until Jan. 15, The order has been in place since Nov. 18. “We have shown we know what it takes to be successful. We’ve got to do everything we can to avoid a surge in cases after the holi­ days," Whitmer said. “Just like we did for Thanksgiving. As I’ve said before, the health of our people and lhe health of our economy go hand in hand.” Gordon’s restaurant restrictions, labeled a “pause” in November, have since been extend­ ed twice. On TwitterJustin Winslow, president of the Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association, said these orders have closed restaurants a total of 143 days since March 16. including earlier restrictions. Since the pandemic began, the coronavirus has infected at least 450.000 residents of the slate and been blamed for more than 11,000 deaths, making it the No. 3 killer in 2020 behind the state’s perennial mortality leaders of heart disease and cancer. Since Nov. 1, more than 3,800 people have died, more than a third of all COVID-19 deaths since March. Gordon said it is “settled science” that lim­ iting close contacts between people of differ­ ent households is lhe basis for these restric­ tions. Ihe virus is transmitted between jxroplc through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing or talking, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Businesses, including bowling alleys, movie theaters and casinos where people can remain over 6 feel apart while wearing masks, are now considered safe, Gordon said. But restaurants and bars, where customers have to take off their masks to eat and drink, are not. he said ” l he key is keeping the mask on.” Whitmer said. l he changes also call for lhe resumption of colleges and universities in January, although Whinner said Michigan schools have agreed to rearrange winter schedules so that no one comes back to campus until Jan. 16 and class­ es do not resume until Jim. 19. For high school students, the changes will of recent surges of COVID-19 cases and the holidays, most would not return to the class­ room before January'. The Michigan Association of Superintendents & Administrators, which has expressed concerns about the face-to-face ban on high schools, issued a statement of support. “While safety remains paramount, we know that Michigan’s children are in definite need of the social and emotional learning and ben­ efits they get from actually being in the class­ room,” said Tina Kerr, the group's executive director. “We are pleased that the governor’s office has heard our concerns to provide district leaders with lhe certainly they need to allow more long-term planning into 2021, while also ensuring that they can continue lo protect the health and safety of their students and staff.” Republicans, including Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey. have noted that the administration’s orders come as unemploy­ ment is increasing. Michigan lost 143.400 jobs in the leisure and hospitality industry in November from that month a year earli­ er. according to federal statistics. Unemployment rose that month to 6.9 percent from 6.1 percent. “We’re going to emerge from C'OVID. We will have vaccines for those who choose them, we have amazingly improved treatments for those affected by the virus,” Shirkey wrote in a text message last week. “But local business­ es can’t inoculate themselves against shut­ downs. There are no vaccines for bankruptcy.” Gordon said the decision to relax business resirictions was based on trends regarding positive test rates, rales of new coronavirus cases and the impact of CO VID-19 on hospi­ tal occupancy. All have fallen in recent weeks, with over 500 fewer COVID-19 patients in Michigan hospitals than a week ago. with cases and test positivily - still far higher than before October - falling over the past few weeks But an average of 90 people in Michi-nn have diedeach day in December. incl ,d-'„ Wayne County Sheriff Benny Nanou\„ 65, who died Thursday after being on ^vt lator since lute November. ° ’’V ‘ Today. I’m vety sad and 1 kn.n„ angry too. I'll tell you why.Th?anger KPte^ peo|>le like Benny are losing this battU^ single day." Whitmer said. ‘ “ “ 0 �Quality Aluminum Products will use the space as a warehouse, although functionality may expand. nies have lieen unable to keep up with the demand tor new homes. “Theres a Lick ot new homes; there's a lack of homes for sale; and. with the workfrom-homc movement, people are looking to upgrade w ith vvhat they have, to add a little bit more space, create a home office or just fix up what the) have," Clark said. These factors have allowed QAP not just to weather the C0V1D-19 pandemic, but to expand. "Our business is growing, and we’re find­ ing that we need more room,” Clark said. Hastings Fiberglass Products President Dave Russell said the facility was built in the early 1970s and has been expanded through­ out the years. The building eventually increased to about 77,000 square feet. Quality Aluminum Products is leasing the warehouse area, while the office area, which faces Cook Road, is still available for lease. "We’re very excited to have them in lhe building.” Russell said. "I think it’s great for lhe community that we keep business local.” Qua ily Aluminum Products is leasing about 40,000 square feet from Hastings Fiberglass Products. Michigan gives $8.5 million for small manufacturers to become ‘digital ready’ Bridge Magazine A $25 sensor may be all it takes to persuade some Michigan manufacturers to take a leap Retaining manufacturing into a new level of technology investment that employment means state officials hope will boost the sector’s competitiveness. holding onto better That sensor on a stamping press could mea­ paying jobs, even as sure vibration, ^ending alerts when it gets out of whack and needs adjustment. The fix could the sector changes. come more quickly than waiting for a person to notice a problem, possibly ensuring belter The jobs pay well, with production anti down time. the average weekly wage Simple ways tn incorporate technology and data into manufacturing - like the sensor in 2020 at $1,365, higher help Tom Kelly,(. EO of Automation Alley, an than the state’s overall advanced nmuJaciitring development center in Oakland County, illustrate why the sector average of $1,037. should consider so called Industry 4.0. or i4.0. technology upgrades, like automation, machine learning and tntcrcunnceriv ity. "It’s costly to make a mistake in manufac­ turing,” Kc’ly said. 17500 in 2022. The Michigan Economic Development The rebound, though, could further slow if Council has prioritized exposing the slate’s the state doesn’t embrace connected technolo­ manufacturing sector to i-1.0. gy, even though there’s a movement to The coal: Get 6.200 small and midsize "re-shore” production of goods now made Michigan companies, representing half of the outside lhe United States, said Bob Lyscas, state’s manufacturers, to invest in "digital COO of the Michigan Manufacturing ready" upgrades by 2025. Technology Center, or MMTC. The MEDC will spend $855 million on the Michigan’s manufacturers "compete effort, following votes recently by the against sophisticated countries that are very Michigan Strategic Fund Board, which is good at manufacturing and don’t want to lose authorized to direct state appropriations all they’ve gained,” Kelly said, mentioning toward business development. China, Germany, South Korea and Mexico. “We know through our extensive research "They're strong manufacturing hubs and ... that Michigan companies continue to be they ‘get* Industry 4.0,” Kelly said. “They’re vulnerable to disruption from automation all looking to chip away |market share] from across the manufacturing sector,” said Mark the U.S.” Burton, president and CEO of the MEDC. The MEDC pointed to its five-year strate­ .Adoption of lhe emerging technologies will gic plan from late 2019 as a reason why the "protect this vital industry," he said. attention to the .small- and midsize manufac­ Manufacturing generates about 20 percent turers makes sense for the suite’s investment. of the state’s gross domestic product, and it Manufacturing is represented in five of the remains a (op employer in Michigan, with six focus industries identified in the strategic factories across the state turning out autos and plan as priorities for business growth and automotive parts, medical devices, food prod­ retention: mobility and automotive manufac­ ucts and packaging, and other goods. turing, advanced manufacturing, medical The sector employed 564,700 people in devices, technology and engineering. October. It started the year with 628.700 The sectors are "where Michigan has a dis­ workers, a number that represents a rebound tinct competitive advantage,” according to the from the Great Recession, but remains below MEDC. its 2000-era peak of about 898.0(H). The plan approved includes: Retaining manufacturing employment • A $25 million agreement with Automation means holding onto better paying jobs, even Alley to provide statewide outreach and as the sector changes. The jobs pay well, with Industry 4.0 readiness assessments to manu­ the average weekly wage in 2020 at $1365, facturers. and a $3.05 million agreement with higher than the state’s overall average of MMTC for similar services. • Up to $2 million in grant funding for a $1,037. . , University of Michigan economists fore- nonprofit or regional governmental organiza­ the state’s manufacturing to recoup some tion to increase manufacturers’ readiness to those lost jobs - 31.MM) in 2021 tmd adopt Industry 4.0 technologies. Vf • $1 million to advertising agency McCann Detroit for an in-state advertising campaign about Industry 4.0 awareness and sen ices. Turning toward the latest technology and effectively using data collection isn’t natural to many manufacturers, Kelly said, especially the small- to midsize ones across the state that may have limited product lines and little incentive to invest in a change. So far, only 12 percent of small- to mid­ size manufacturing companies have adopted 14.0. said Josh Hundt, chief business develop­ ment officer at the MEDC. Among the risks of not pursuing the technology is that Michigan could be less resilient from future downturns, he said. Kelly agreed. “We have to make manufac­ turers aware of this disruption that's building all around them,” he said. That also was the conclusion of Automation Alley’s most recent annual technology report. "Manufacturing complies need a long­ term strategic plan for the’j digital transfor­ mation. But our Jean practices, which focus on cost reduction and short-term [return on investmentjean become a major impediment to digital tansformation,” according to the report. “We must understand that our state is doubly at risk if we slay the course .and com­ panies that don’t adopt a digital mindsyi will gel left behind." While a midsize manufacturer may dp $50 million in business, many of the smallest shops in Michigan have 10 employees or fewer.particularly in rural areas. The manufacturing technologies center plans to increase staffing to perform 300 Industry 4.0 assessments next year, up from 40 peryear, Lyscas said. Those will happen in the MMTC’s Industry 4.0 lab in Plymouth Township, and in its satellite centers across the state. West Michigan has prioritized lhe digital transformation among its 2.615 manufactur­ ers, said Birgit Klohs, president and CEO of The Right Place economic development group in Grand Rapids. Most of that region’s manu­ facturers have 250 employees or fewer, and Klohs said many already accept that it’s lime to pursue technology changes. While the $25 sensor example from Automation Alley’s Kelly can make a digital upgrade sound inexpensive and easy, costs coukl go much higher, depending on recom­ mendations. A 3D printer, for example, could co>! a manufacturer $30,(KX), Kelly said. However, that investment will usually mean lower production costs. Kelly said, while allowing a more competitive business model. Increasing digitization by data sharing will allow a small shop’s systems to commu­ nicate with its customers’ networks, further adding value. "It’s nut lhe investment that’s necessarily expensive.” Kelly said. "What’s expensive is if you make it and don’t understand how you’re going to recoup your costs or what you’re going to learn. That’s what prevents [manufacturers] from acting.” lhe new statewide awareness push and personalized assessments should help bridge that gap. Lyscas said. It also can hope to close the labor gap. Lyscas said. With many companies straggling to find enough workers, technology can han­ dle repetitive tasks as workers perform more specialized functions. The technology "can make them bigger, better and more competitive in the market,” Lyscas said. "[Manufacturers] don’t realize the potential they have.” . •• Watson Drain application deadline is today Luke Fronchcck Writer Today is the deadline for Barry' County Drain Commissioner Jim Dull to submit information to the Michigan Department of Environment Great Lakes and Energy for a proposed water infrastructure project - unless there’s an extension. I he project would carry waler north from Upper Crooked Lake through Long and Cloverdale lakes. The application process, which has spanned several months, has included multiple extensions. "If the department were to issue a permit, it would be a draft permit that the applicant would have to sign, assuming they agree with all of the pennit conditions, and return to us before it would be signed by EGLE staff, making it final.” Audrie Kirk, district supervisor for the Grand Rapids Water Resources Division, said. “Countersignature permits are common practice for the department when projects are very complex and/or have monitoring, financial assurance, or bank credit purchase requirements.” Dull said Monthly he iting on EGLE staff for permit appwri ded that his office is still compleli information requests subrriittedby The requested informal! ales to a plan on how the drain office will monitor incoming invasive species in the future. "We haven’t given them that plan yet, but permits have been approved without it before.” Dull said, adding that his office has covered just about everything else (hat could be requested. On Monday morning. Kirk said she was notified that Dull does not have an easemem over a portion of lhe land where the proposed work is supposed to occur. . "EGLE permits do not convey property rights, so my inquiry is more focused on making sure that the plans do not need to be updated since it does not sound like they will get access to the property.” Kirk said. . In the meantime, Dull said Crooked Lakj is still about 3 feel higher than lhe preferred level and a fool lower than it was in tile spring. To our customers, friends and community partners Thank You for allowing us to serve you. We look forward to meeting your financial needs in the year to come. From our entire Highpoint Community Bank family to yours, we wish yon a very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year! highpoint COMMUNITY BANK highpointcommunllybank.com | MWB-427-2280 �4 - Thursday ■ M ^20 - The Hasting**^ Did •*vou see i Makin’ a list and checking it twice — We wish you a Merry Christinas The year 2020 has been different from any Other in recent history ~ but it has been pretty consistent Christmas prob­ ably won't be while. (Right now, the forecast *s calling for a slushy rain mix­ ture? And a bail won’t be dropping next weeli like it did last year from the Walldorff Brewpub and Bistro in down­ town Hastings. That fun gathering that kicked off the year was brought to us by Carl Schoessel and Mike and Sue Barnaart. Remember7 Here’s Nick Larabee. on Dec. 18, 2019. waiting to unload the New Year's Eve ball from the pack of a truck. We have fond memories of that event and appreciation for those who made it happen. On this blessed Chnstmas. reflect on the reason for the , season and find comfort in our resilience as a community. Just one more week before we kiss 2020 goodbye and resolve to have a much better new year. Merry Christmas to all. Do you remember? Dressing up Christmas dolls Banner Dec. 15, 1966 What a doll. Mrs. Monroe [Eva] Leach of the Welcome Comers Ladies Aid admires one of the dolls she and others in the group dressed for the Kiwanis Club for distribution to youngsters during the Christmas season. The women made clothing for the 27 dolls, which will make glad the hearts of youngsters. Among the Welcome Corners women working on the project were Cressie Sledge. Winifred Thompson, Thelma Fogel, Mae Edwards, Ethel Buck, Grace Colvin, Pat Guernsey, Vera Sutton, Clara Malcolm, Mary Kaiser, Leone Scott. Kathryn Neilson and Leila Martin. Have you Dave Solmes’ Christmas light display at Dewey’s Auto Body used to be quite modest: just a few lights hung up and decorations scattered across the yard. That was in 2010. Every year since, Solmes’ display has continued to grow — in its quantity oi lights, decorations, entertainment value, set-up time and, most importantly, audience. “We had been doing a static Christmas display where we had just the building outlined and lhe bushes, the deer out in the । y ard. that type of stuff,” Solmes, 45, said. “I I saw the potential with synchronized music, started researching and found some equipment that was reasonably priced. So, we could kind of get into it, and from there it turned into a monster of its own.” Now, Solmes’ display is more of a show. More than 17.000 lights — .some capable of producing 256 different colors — dance to Christmas music playing on 105.1 FjM, the Blinking Bulb. The show runs every' night from 5 p.m. to midnight. Jt began Nov. 30 and will continue through to Jan. 4. Solmes himself programs lhe lights, which takes hundreds of hours. “Putting up the lights is the quick part — probably takes 20 hours to put up lhe lights. The programming side, that takes a couple 1(X) hours.” he said. “I’m usually working on Christmas stuff in July.” Solmes began his synchronized light show in 2011 to attract attention to the Hastings and Bany County area. As an auto body shop owner, he doesn t typically Share in the Christmas shopping season that supP*^ ">an> s,nal1 Bui, knowing how important Christmas shoppers are to keepmp small busmess afloat. -Solmes created the hght show m hopes it would attract more potential shoppers theus. area • peallvtolor it's trying to attract n<*nnle people, J ’ rv^nnle a reason to stay at trymgtogivetKope.uct J home to, .hem W "lhat sees that hol.day typical rctaiic . = • e jn a vibrant shopping, but we w puke sure that community. So we *ant Dave Solmes people try and stay local with their shopping dollars, try to bring people in from outside the area to see what Hastings has going on.” Solmes said. Over the years. Dewey’s Auto Body has become known for its light display and it attracts quite an audience. 1 his year, Solmes’ parking lot has been full to capacity most nights. •‘Especially right now. with less public entertainment out there, the hve show has been extremely busy,” Solmes said. “Parking has been a premium so. the more people put up lights, the mote driving around people can do to sec the different houses. It gives them something to do." Solmes and Dewey’s Auto Body also are sponsoring the first-ever Battle of the Bulbs ~ a county-wide residential and business light display competition hosted by the Barry County Chamber ot Commerce and Economic Development. “We want to promote people decorating and shining a little light out, Solmes said While |>erhaps best known tor its light show. Dewey’s Auto B<xly also is known as a longstanding ‘.tuple of Hastings. Sohnts’ grandfather, Dewey, started the shop in 1955 and it has remained in the family ever since Shortly after graduating from Western Michigan University with a degree in aviation administration, Solmes decided to take over the family business — buying out his father in 2000 and his uncle in 2004. Since then, he has spent much of his time performing the many services that the shop offers: collision work, rust damage repairs, painting, auto detailing and more. He also teaches continuing education classes through I-Car — an auto industry nonprofit that oilers training classes, activities and resources — which helps him stay up-to-date on the latest in industry technology. In his free time, Solmes spends time with his wife, Tracy, who co-owns the shop with him, and his three children: Madeline. 23. Katelyn, 20. and Johnathan. 19. He also enjoys outdoor activities like hunting and fishing. For bringing Christmas cheer to the community and supporting his fellow local businesses. Dave Solmes is this week’s Bunner Bright Light. Favorite movie: “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” . . People I most admire and why: My Parents. David and Joan Solmes- My parents raised me to have a strong work cthic. integrity and to give back to the community. Favorite teacher and «bJ: 'X™? lot of teachers at Hastings school who made big impacts on my life and couW never name just one. We have had a lot of gre;" le“<-hers in Hastings. Fm most proud of: My fti““lLun.v. Ir Greatest things about BarO , !•? hs ■usidents. Barry County ba» 2 who truly want to make a County community and work to B 5 him "U^e' "'e be featured ' "K who shoal-l l’tfl l,.lmllU! volunteer for the Morie' " , jnflirniation ' 11 ""‘"V Other reaunt:'.7/55/ A’. ‘ « < /Many. //„„». A' •"“"I "■><^,j.utl hicU<u<‘- • • • just to sec who’s been naughty or nice. I •"» what I do every year, my annual tradi­ tion of looking over the past year to get a better perspective on some of the newsmak­ ers in our communities and. hopefully, to *l< d some humor to news that can become too serious. This year, COVID-19 and all the cancel­ lations it s caused threw in some new com­ plications. but not to worry - I still found plenty of ammunition. I’m going to keep my badition intact as Jong as Gov. Gretchen Whitmer doesn’t close down my newspaper. (She must think I’m “an essential busi­ ness.”) And for the targets on my list this year: Remember what the late writer Oscar Wilde once said. “There is only one thing in the world worse than being talked about, and that is not being talked about.” So, here we go with this year’s tongue-incheek. but always heartfelt gifts to the peo­ ple and organizations on my list: 1. Kudos to the county health department staff. I’m giving the staff gift certificates for massages to alleviate the nearly all-year­ long strain of playing a COVID version of the arcade game Whack-a-Mole. 2. Io the residents of Yankee Springs Township: The “Clean Sweep Award.” Good government starts with the people. Congrats to them for starting a new chapter of leadership in lhe new year. 3. To Circuit Judge Vicky L. Alspaugh who was sworn in by the courthouse steps New Year’s Day: Better microphones in her courtroom so people watching proceedings on You I ube can actually hear what witness­ es say. 4- A failing grade goes to project facilita­ tor TowerPinkster after being hired early in the year to help county commissioners pass a bond proposal for a new Commission on Aging facility and a new jail. The Kalamazoo linn became a vacuum sucking up consult­ ing fees with nothing to show for them. 5. The Biggest looser Award goes to our county commissioners for wasting thou­ sands oi dollars on “poor advice.” They should have known that when you shop out of town for special advice, it’s best to remember: Buyer beware. . The Technology Award goes ...to Hastings High School students who leaped into new cybersecurity courses to fill gaps needed to prepare for exciting careers. Maybe we could use Hastings students for any future elections. Career and technical educator teacher Bob Carl was right when he said. Unfortunately, to learn how to protect things, you have to learn how to break things.” 7. Judge Michael Schippcrgets the Expert Award for studying the numbers and con­ cluding that a proj>osed big jail was overkill for Bany' County. Using local experts usual­ ly pays off. 8. The Go-it-alone Award goes to Gov. Whitmer for her constant selection of win­ ners and losers and for choosing w hat busi­ nesses she wanted to close. Small business­ es and restaurants across the slate continue to suffer due to her unwillingness to “follow the science” in support of these dedicated businesses. 9. The Made It Through the Rain Award goes to Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Authority President Jennifer Heinzman for making it through her first year amid so many difficult situa­ tions brought on by the pandemic. 10. I’m sending the latest edition of “The World’s 500 Greatest Golf Holes” to President Donald J. Trump so he can get out of the swamp and enjoy himself on some great courses around the world. 11. The county drain commission and many residents deserve the War Against Mother Nature Award, a gift basket filled with sponges to soak up all the flood waler, CliffsNoles study guides to navigate filling out all the stale applications for assistance, and a ledger to keep track of the nearly $25 million already spent on the too-much-water problem. 12. The “Gotcha” Award goes to the Chinese Communist Party for releasing COVID-19 on America during the strongest economy on record and killing millions of innocent people around world. 13. lhe Enterprise Award goes to Bradford While for its continued expansion projects. Eventually, they’re going to run out of room. 14. To County Sheriff Dar Leaf: A “Dick Tracy” detective kit to better prepare for all ihe messy investigations in which he alwnv« seems to find himself. y 15. To all the small businesses and restau­ rants impacted by the shutdowns: A special “tax holiday.” Just figure the amount lost because of closed days due to shutdown orders and deduct lhe amount from propertv taxes and state income taxes. * 16. Copies of the books “Mastering the Art of Hiring” and “Keeping the People" to Hastings School Board mem bcra. After all. school boards have only on ’ employee for which they are responsible and this board blew it. !o B Don Haney for his vision 7.™ assisted-living facUhy on whur has m the campus for seniors. Mhkc 7 ,nni 8 Kudos to all lhe Barry County 4-Hers who were robbed of the fun of ,he.a”n^ county fair. Sorry, kids, you’re ‘‘ young age that life has its disappoin • 19. The “Bob the Builder Award goes to John Sporcr, his staff, and the board at YMCA Camp Algonquin for their visionary leadership and efforts to continue to make Camp Algonquin one of the premier camp> in the nation. 20. To President-elect Joe Biden, I m sending a case of Prevagen. Based on some of his recent gaffes, I think he’ll be buying it by the case. 21. To TCF Bank - formerly the National Bank of Hastings, the Sandridge Bank, Chemical Bank and now Huntington Bank: Its own sign truck to save money as it changes names in the future. What’s next? Bank of America? 22. To the families of Charlie Pullen and Dan Parker, our heartfelt sympathies. We will miss these leaders and their steward­ ship. They were part of a generation that left I a lasting legacy. 23. The Clueless Award goes to the many politicians at the state and national level who never had a real job because they’ve been in government all their lives. The patience of taxpayers is wearing thin, espe­ cially during the pandemic w-hen these poli­ ticians are making (or not making) deci­ sions that impact our lives with little or no concern for reality. 24. A special Christmas wish for Santa on behalf of all the students in Barry County: "Can we have this year back again?” Kids all over the county and the country' will be impacted by COVID-19 for the balance of their education. No matter if they are first-graders or seniors, the deficiencies caused by so much instruction time being missed will show up for years. Maybe we should consider students repeating all the grades next year? Maybe not so popular? 25r been authorized by U)c,[fastings City Police to give former Hastings Schools Superintendent Dan Remenap a speeding ticket for changing jobs so fast. 26. And to the jury that found David Krebs guilty of assault with intent to com­ mit great bodily harm rather than an attempt to commit murder after slashing his victim’s throat and stabbing him multiple times: A book on anatomy, so they’ll understand that slitting someone’s throat usually kills them. 27. To Barry Intermediate School District: The newest version of “Great Start.” It’s the latest accounting software for better record­ keeping. 28. Congrats to the Barry Community Foundation for its new modular home proj­ ect, an effort that will provide more afford­ able housing for the community. 29. Tlie News Beat Award goes to Elaine Garlock who’s still reporting Lake Odessa area news for the Hastings Banner at the mature age of 100. 30. To new Barry County Undersheriff itS°nrrSlXber°: 0111 btX)k’ ‘‘Becoming a Sheriff m 6 Easy Lessons.” 31. The Big Surprise Award goes to fordCr J}?°71aPP^c Kellogg Superintendent Rob Blitchok who stunned the community with his retirement announcement. He’s not old enough 10 be that stressed out. 2. The Science Award goes to Barryd on District Health Department Community Health Promotions Specialist barah Surna and her colleagues for closing down loca| rcstaurants .fjning ihe fcw were courageous enough to open because they weren’t “following the sci­ ence. According to national experts, rcstauver. a.rC 'r-0* **'ie*y coronavirus spreaders. n»c Vc ^eJocusc^ °n them with little or no ers^1^ sh°ws any danger to custom- e,to?.LW?-Uld remiss if 1 didn’1 acknowlfn™thc historical loss and potential of the Coir-hL H j*,ln8s Table Company/Royal cirlv nui burned to the ground in fire^ h’Ct.Ob<?r -*n one of Hastings’ largest honV; S a tr?glC Ioss’bul lbe P,ans ft* ncw nousing continue. th^nk. 0 b'aiTy and Earlene Baum; Special Ihstin or lhe‘r continued support of tian r scbooks and for their major donaat Sn° ? a slale’°ftlhe-ait .surgical center corn^T nUn l,eallh I>ennock Hospital, lhe their Can t lbcm enough for thL‘r «nfailmg generosity. \ .?righten UP ,he Holiday Award Solm. °r lewey s Auto Body and Dave cr r s (>r afiain making the season bright* ntw surgteal center at SjK-ctrunt Health- Continued next page �Tnurday. December ?A. 2020 — The Hastings Banner — Tnu / Hastings to schools Jan. 6 wc ' Staff Writer Hasting5 Welh?? i*111 °|X:n for facc' kanung. . 1 esday, jan. 6 Wi l°Ta Superintendent Mau 7 ’ '"'"“’Ll Ma" Gocb-=l No politicians should run unopposed To the editor: First of all. I’d like to express my condo­ lences for the people mentioned in your latest edition who have died from COVID-19. No place in Michigan is immune from this scourge. I am not from your county, though I’ve spent a good deal of time there over the years Like most Michiganders, before this year, I’d never heard of your sheriff. Dar Leaf But then I learned how he’d helped to provide a platform for a couple of guys who are charged with plotting to kidnap (and possibly kill) the governor and attack the state Capitol because they disagreed with Gov. Whitmer’s actions to fight COVID-19. After the plot was uncov­ ered and lhe alleged participants charged, he lent further public support for them. S"P«« Bates So, when election time rolled around, I was curious to find out how Sheriff Leaf had fared given his public statements. 1 found that Sheriff Leaf hud run unopposed for re-elec­ tion and won by default. I am writing to urge that, regardless of where we live in Michigan, we should never let any politician run unopposed like Dar Leaf did Nov. 3. When voters lack a choice, office holders act like they can say or do anything without risk. Even if the public largely agrees with them, we arc all belter served when they have competition. It tends to make them more moderate in their statements and actions, and more publicly accountable. Paul Jordan, Shelby (Write Us A Letter: The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer's name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks" will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire" letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. "T8' 10 S«°n families G<^1 ci>«l seveml re„S(m f()r ,he J'S fea; s- de/rW-'inSin "o ’"d are healthy «"d ’ead> 10 Wport in-person le^Makin8 sU* oriori^,1"’ “nd s,aff safe is our No-• P ty. We also understand learning is £j ''bl5 edueatton we ean nrovide.” Goebel te his message to families. “We hase made this decision after collaborating »'•™admtnistration. board of cducau°n’ Hastings Education Association, Hastings flfl die bus drivers |leadership. * RROl Association and ” Virtual and online instruction will continue as an option for students, he added. Starting in-pcrson eaming at the beginning of the second semester means all students will begin on the ^tc. Also, starting on a Wednesday will 8,ve district staff two extra days to prepare for Ulc students’ return. ••We wanted to get this information out to you now, so you can plan accordingly for a positive start to the second semester,” Goebel wrote. “As Jja\° learned, anything is possible with COVID during this pandemic. However, we believe that, at this time, given the information we have, starting Jan. 6.2021. best serves the needs of our students.” Continued from previous page Road commission joins special regional response plan Greg Chandler Staff Writer While West Michigan has avoided the major snowfalls that impacted the East Coast oi the United States this month, local road crews are gearing up for when they will need to hit the roads this winter. And. with the COVID-19 pandemic continuing, county road commissions across West Michigan are banding together to develop a joint response plan across jurisdictional boundaries in ease multiple drivers within individual agencies come down with the coronavirus. The Barry County Road Commission is one of more than a dozen road agencies in West Michigan participating in lhe initiative. Road Commission Operations Director Jake Welch said the partnership expands upon existing relationships the local road commission has with neighboring counties. “The lines of communications arc constantly open [from county to county),” Welch said. “We all have each other’s cell phones: we work together constantly. “If there’s anything going on near the county lines, we always chat with each other. This is a very natural process for us to work with these communities because we do already." The Kent County Road Commission put together the coordinated effort. Neighboring agencies would assist during storm response efforts to ensure that the region’s main transportation arteries - the highest-volume. highest-speed roads - arc cleared first. “The pandemic poses unique obstacles for helping one another and sharing resources,” direLtorof op^JflcfOSS with strategic procedures identified that aligned with safeJ, P e । -, in each agency s COVJD I r “H iS VHaJ t0 ^onneMhat the highl­ and emergency personn • volume mads .hnW^' _■£ priori-y." Bynw added. Iume there may be delay m residential streets, and you could see an tl c agency’s plow trucks on your str«x • Byrne emphasized that the J response plan is a contingency plan and maj not be necessary. However, if agencies nev to enact it, Byrne said each would s,r*Vc or a seamless deployment of resources o minimize delay. . Welch said plow drivers have to take into account many factors when they are on a run. “It’s not as easy as driving down the road with your blade down and turn around and drive back down the road with your blade down,” Welch said. “It’s just not. You have to know where you can turn around, what intersections arc big enough to turn around at. how you’re going to get all those intersections plowed, what direction you run your route, where you start your run. where you stop your route, how you prioritize your roads.” Welch said, so far. none of his drivers have contracted COVID-19. His hope is that the plan won’t have to be activated at all. but he said it “was really wise to have these procedures in place,” just in case. GUEST COMMENTARY My Take: Michigan’s lockdown is turbocharging income inequality Pennock, the new' playground at Tyden Park, and for all the support they give throughout the year. Their generosity is overwhelming. 37. To moms and dads, grandparents or Eric Tubbs among lower-wage industries - typically cus­ friends who are locked up alone due to the Small businesses across Michigan arc on tomer-oriented service work that has been pandemic: A simple card, a phone call or, lhe brink, and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s lock­ most affected by lockdown measures - is better yet, a visit from someone, even if it’s down measures arc driving more to perma­ much different. . through a window. Someone once said, nently close their doors. The U-M economists expect a “dispropor­ “Caring for those who once cared for us is one Livelihoods for thousands arc evaporating, tionately large number of... lower-skilled of lhe highest honors in life.” and that means higher income inequality as workers” will facc “long-term job loss” As I come to the end qf my list and another lower-income workers are much more likely “greatly exacerbatefingj” income inequality. year of special wishes, I want to thank every­ to lose their jobs over others. The burden of the state’s severe CO VID-19 one, whether mentioned here or not, who has Last week brought more bad news as lhe restrictions falls squarely on the shoulders of helped make our county a better place to live. ban on indoor dining and bars that was due to those with lhe lowest incomes and least This has been a year for lhe record books expire Monday will continue until Jan. 15. It opportunities. Further prolonging statewide when, within a matter of weeks into 2020, wc has been in place since Nov. 18. lockdowns means widespread hankhip facing were hit with a dangerous virus that changed The restaurant-focused shutdown was the working class in a state that has seen far our lives in an instant. Special events, gradu­ already putting people out of business and out too much of it. ations, weddings, funerals, festivals and fairs of work when it began last month. A Grand Meanwhile, the workers most exposed to were all shut down or reduced to minimal Rapids staple. Dan’s Diner, announced it economic hardship and job loss during the participation. I think we’re all looking for­ would be closing its doors for good. ”2020 pandemic have had to face an incompetent ward to better times, but none of us will forget and the pandemic was just too much for us.” unemployment benefits system: constant the dangerous and dark days of 2020. Yet, as they wrote in a Facebook post breaking the issues ranging from long delays and wait a community we worked together, supported sad news - and were met with overflowing times for crucial benefits to fraud. local businesses, and tried to adapt to a new community support and sympathy. And now, following a pattern of surprise Zoom way of operation. "This thing has crushed a lot of people, announcements and last-minute switch-ups Most importantly, each one of us needs to crushed a lot of friends of mine in business,” that have characterized Whitmer’s responses Michigan Legislature be thankful for what we have. Most of us said Dan Chudik, the chef who adopted and over recent months, the governor is seeking Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. know someone with a serious medical issue or renamed the iconic diner in 2017. “I can’t $100 million in tax dollars in an attempt to. fix someone who died or became seriously ill make it at 50 percent, so I really can’t make it the problems she created through the lock­ Phone (517) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). downs. State Representative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), because of COVID-19. Let’s remember to when it’s just takeout.” Dan’s Diner joins the nearly 2,000 bars and To lift the burden off the shoulders of the Michigan House of Representatives. N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml keep those families in our prayers - they need our support. restaurants across the state the Michigan lowesl-wage workers and prevent income 48933. Phone (517) 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov Secondly, we should all examine how we Restaurant and Lodging Association, or inequality from rampaging through the state. State Senator Dr. John Bizon, Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517­ 373-2426 or toll-free, 855-347-8019. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov; U.S. define success. Too often, we measure suc­ MRLA, estimates have already closed their Whitmer should reconsider her harsh and cess by the vehicles we drive, the clothes wc doors for good. MRLz\ President and CEO inequitable lockdown orders, instead allowing mail: Sen. Dr. John Bizon, P.O. Box 30036, Lansing Ml 48909. wear or the houses wc live in and give little or Justin Winslow warns that up to 6,000 more businesses to open with critical precautions no regard for all the things we have. In reality, will follow if lockdowns are prolonged. and safely measures - but open nonetheless. U.S. House of Representatives The livelihoods of thousands of Whitmer’s harsh COVID-19 restrictions Justin Amash, Independent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House we should live our lives as if every day mat­ Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515-2203, phone (202) 225-3831, fax (202) 225­ ters, because it does. Someone once said, have, in effect, turbocharged income inequal­ Michiganders rely on a sustainable approach 5144 District office: 110 Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503, “Live each day as if it’s your last because, one ity in Michigan - creating a new gap between to COVID-19, a solution that will not evapo­ day, you’ll be right rate lhe life’s work of small businesses own­ the haves and the have nots. phone (616) 451-8383. “All of us are bom for a reason, but all of ”We arc seeing a two-track recovery from ers, further hollow out communities and cause us don’t discover why,” Danny Thomas, the lhe pandemic,” said Gabriel Ehrlich, a irreparable long-term economic harm to llio>e U.S. Senate University of Michigan economist and co-au­ who were already struggling lo get by. . Debbie Stabenow. Democrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. _ hte performer■ and founder of St. Jude’s Hospital, thor of a new report forecasting Michigan’s 20510 phone (202) 224-4822. ** ‘ u “Success in life has nothing to Eric Tubbs is spokesman for Mighty Garv Peters, Democrat, 2 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510- do with what you gain in life or accomplish economic recovery over the next two years. The U-M forecast expects a nearly com­ Michigan, a nonprofit, nonpartisan online oonp nhone (248) 799-0850. District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building, Room for yourself- Il’s what >ou do for others that 720 110 Michigan Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49503-2313, phone (616) 233- really mattersplete economic recovery among higher- and group focused on the economy and issues . 'Die year 2020 was one of doing for others middle-wage industries - those that are able related to economic liberty and government 91o2>cirtent's comment line: 1-202-456-1111. Cap 77 mation line for Congress and givine everything we had lo sla>’ safe and to work remotely and virtually. But the story transparency. control the vims- Now it’s time to begin 2021 and7he Senate: 1-202-224-3121. by concentrating on our listening skills and continuingdo m°'e f°r °'hers- Hopefully, in the first f«w m° hs of ,hc new *ear- larKc numbers of c ,n our community will receive the vaccine that will unlock our lives from this dreaded virus and wc can begin to Deuoted to lhe Interests of Barry County since 1856 COMMUNITY BANK get back io50(110 norma,c>'in our lives. Pubirshedb/... Hastings Banner, Inc. If we ean accomplish these simple tasks, A Division ol J-Ad Graphics Inc. 2021 will 1* a bcl,er ycar for al1 °f us51 N M.43 Highway • Phone: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 Please note our special 1J ‘ fftiea^es: news@fadgraphics.com • Advertising: ads@J-adgraphics.com Happy f'e'vYear' NewS and pH#5 ,o . Fred Jacobs, CEO, J-Ad Graphics Inc. ((Know Your Legislators i & The Hastings BantlCT Frederic Jacobs publisher & CEO Hank cFOUUrin0 ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT Clasi <>ed adj accepted Monday through Fnday, B-TOam to5 00pm Scott Ommen Mike Gilmore Ty Greenfield Jennie Yonker Subscription Rates: $52 per year in Barry Count $60 per year in adjoining counties 1 °Copy Editor) (differ ISPO” Ed"0,> $65 per year elsewhere Rebecca Brett ' Luke Froncheck Sophie Ba|es Greg Chandler Taylor Owens POST MAS TER Send addre.M aunggs io PO Box 1E8 HjSt ngi, Ml 49058 0168 Second Cliii Postage Paid al Has&nQi. Ml 49058 highpomt HOLIDAY HOURS: Thursday, December 24th Christmas Eve - Close at 1 pm Friday, December 25th Christmas Day - CLOSED V/’V and Online Banking is uvadabh J-/11 out a ihi\ highpointcommunitybank.com Member FDIC ____ �B3mW 6 _ Thu™*,. owwnoe- 24.2620 - Th« Richard Shriver James John Spurgeon Mildred ’’Millie" Joy Venhuizen, age 74, of Hastings. Michigan. (Missed away on December 15. 2020. She was born on January 5. 1946. lhe daughter of Albert and Dorothy Gronew old. ........... .Millie attended Middleville High School. On December 6. 1969. she married Steven Venhuizen. and they enjoyed over 50 years together Milke was a beautician working in Grand Rapid*, Hastings, and in home. Millie's interest is the same of mothers acres* the land. She raised her children and was concerned about even thing they did. Millie was preceded in death by her parents, sisters Helen Venhuizen. Marcella Potter and Marlene Main. She is survived by her husband, Steve; her children. Aaron (Callie) Venhuizen of Hastings. Kara (Derek) Taylor of Ruther Glen, VA, Suzanne (Jack) Sharpe of Medina. OH. and Jennifer (Jerry) Rossi Bihlmeyer of Dorr, her brother. Dennis Gronewold of Rustin. Louisiana, and her sister. Marie Sutlitlof Olivet. Brenda Williams of Tucson. AZ:4 five grandchildren, and one great­ grandson. Visitation was held Saturday. Dec. 19, 2020 at Girrbach Funeral Home. 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058, with a private family senice that followed. The sen ice was live-streamed al www .facebook. com'GirrbachFuneralHome. You do not need a Facebook Account lo view the service. Interment will occur al Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta. To leave an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuncrjlhome.net. Richard (Dick) Shriver, age 87 ol Hastings, passed away Friday. Dec. 18. 2020 while under hospice care in the Laurels of Sandy Creek, Wayland. Richard was born on January 2, 1933, the son of Dorilda (White) and Samuel Shriver of Hastings, both who preceded him in death. He married the love of his life. Leona Johnson. June 28. 1952, and they enjoyed 63 years together until her death in 2016. I hey began married life when he joined the Navy in Portsmouth. VA. Richard worked for EW Bliss in Hastings for many years and numerous other shops until his retirement. Richard was a longtime born-again Christian and proud to be so. He was a member of lhe local Bible Missionary Church of Hastings for many years. He also participated in various prison ministries around Michigan. He was preceded in death by his wife. Leona and son. Rick, and a still-born granddaughter. He is survived by his children, Larry Shriver of Hastings. Teresa Smith-Shriver of Gowen. Linda (Eldon) Weyennan of Hastings, and special son and brother, Randy Rice of Hastings: grandson, Paul (Erin) Cooley of Belding, Colton and Hailey, and great-grandsons, Oscar Cooley and son, Braedon, Nate and Sarah Cooley; sister. Deloris; sister-in-law. sister, Beverly Smith: brother. Lee Tracy both of Hastings, and numerous niece and nephews across numerous states. A senice will be held on Monday, Dec. 28, 2020 at 4 p.m. at the Bible Missionary Church. 315 E. Marshall. Hastings, with a luncheon to follow at 5 p.m. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To lease an online condolence, visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. Worship Together ...at the church of your choice Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches a vailable for your con venience... HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "We Exist To Be An Expression Of Who Jesus Is To 'The World Around Us". 2635 N. M-43 Hwy.. P.O. Box 8; Hastings. Telephone 269­ 945-9121. Email hastfincz* gnuiLDcni- Website: www. ■ Pastor Brian Teed, Assistant ftisior Emma Miller, Worship Director. Martha Stoetze!. Sunday Morning Worship: 9,un and 10:30 a.m. Due to the current health crisis, our nursery is remains closed. Weekly activity bagsforchihvn are available in the 9 am. service and Kid’s Church is available in our 10.30 service. Our worship center is set up for social distancing. Aftermath “ ‘ 6 Student Ministries: Sunday p.m. ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH 805 S. Jefferson. 269-945­ 4246 Pastor Father Stephan Philip. Mass 4:30 p.m. Saturday. Mass 8 and 11 a.m. Sunday. HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 309 E Woodlawn. Hastings. Matt Moser. Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 turn. Sunday Sch<x>! tor all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.: Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday. Family Night 6:30-8 p.m. Kids 4 Truth (Children Kindergarten-5lh Grade). 6:30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948 -8004 for information. WOODGROVE BRETHREN CHRISTIAN PARISH 4887 Coots Grove Rd. Pastor Randall Bertrand. Wheelcliair accessible and elevator. Sunday Schoo! 9:30 a.m. Worship lime 10:30 am. Youth activities: call for information. CHRIST THE KING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) 328f N. Jefferson Street. Worship 10 a.m. Nursery provided. Pastor Peter Adams, contact 616 690-8609. LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 301 E Slate Rd.. P.O. Box 273, Hustings. Ml 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948­ 0900. Website: www.lifegatccc. com. Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 pin. Mary L. Travis WELCOME CORNERS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3185 N. Broadway. Hastings, Ml 49058. Phone 945-2654. Worship Sers ices: Sunday, 9:45 a.m. SOLID ROCK BIBLE CHURCH OF DELTON 7025 Milo Rd., P.O. Bos 765, (corner of Milo Rd. & S. M­ 43), Delton, Ml 49046. Pastor Roger Gay pool, (517) 204­ 9390. Sunday Worship Service 10.30 to J 1:30am, Nursery and ('hddrvn’s Ministry. Wednesday night Bible study and prayer lime 6 30 to 7:30 pm exfob !■> 1351 North M-43 Hwy. 1699 W, M43 Highway, Hastings 945-9554 Hastings, Ml 49058. 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-4700 945-9541 family and spending time with them. He looked forward to making even more memories with his children and grandchildren in the years to come. He lived these last several years of his life to lhe fullest, doing what he enjoyed. He is deeply missed and will be forever loved by his family. Jim was preceded in death by his grandparents. Bernie Spurgeon. Genevieve Spurgeon. Harold Widder Sr., and Margaret Johnson-Widder. Jim is survived by his parents. Gerald B. Spurgeon and Beverly A. Spurgeon (Widder) of Antigo, Wl; siblings, Gerald J. Spurgeon (Conchy) of Hastings. Kim Bissonette(Paul) of Antigo. Wl. and Tracy Spurgeon of Oshkosh. Wl; children. Kristi A. Erb (Jeff) of Hastings. Matthew J. Spurgeon (Lizz) of Middleville, Bryce J Spurgeon (Becki Linsea) of Hastings, and Nikki Jo Spurgeon (Matt Eldred) of Nashville; grandchildren. Colter Eldred. Raelynn Spurgeon. Parker Erb. Elliana Erb. Hayden Erb, Alyssa Spurgeon. Matthew Spurgeon II. Taylor Samayoa and Isabella Samayoa; as well many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles. Respecting Jim’s wishes, a memorial service will be held on Saturday. May 15, 2021. Arrangements have been made by Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings, Michigan. To leave online condolences, visit w ww.giirbachfuncralhome net H o ►; j -i T it i> u. • »; J fl t d ri O T. -r> jt lf J ’.I >1 Z */ ff D PLEAS ANTVIEW FAMILY CHURCH 2601 Lacey Road. Dowling. MI 49050. Pastor. Steve Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 church phone. Sunday Sers ice: 10 a.m T/ih information on worship service is provided by The Hastings Bunner, (he churches ‘ J and these load businesses: _______ Ab Edna (Lehman) Miller. age 80 of Hastings, entered Heaven’s gates on December 16, 2020. She was bom on February b. 1940 in Battle Creek, to Walter and Agnes (Brizendine) Lehman. Edna graduated from Reading High School in I960 and went on to attend Southeastern University io Lakeland. IT.. She married Lloyd Miller on August 8. 1964 and they spent 56 years together in blissful marriage. She was a pastor for more than 40 years, moM recently for New Life Assembly in Hastings. Edna loved people, and her heart was full whenever she had the opportunity to spoil her grandkids. She also enjoyed spending lime in the kitchen, a good game of Scrabble with her husband, or traveling with her family. She will Ik* missed by the many lives she touched during her time spent sharing the love of Jesus here on earth. Edna was preceded in death by her parents: brothers. Richard Lehman, Evert Lehman. Don Lehman. Paul Lehman. Elmer Ixhman, Dutch Lehman, and Bob Lehman; and sister. Jeanne Stockton. She is survived by her husband. Lloyd; sons, Kevin Miller and Ken Miller; daughter. Karen (Dave) Morris; grandchildren. Scott Miller, Alex Miller, Kenny (Jessica) Miller. Trent Miller, Robbie (Kaitlyn) Miller, Jason Morris. Kim Lloyd, Chris Morris, Kraig Morris. Caitlyn Morris. Philip (Amanda) Morris. Kayla Morri*, and Tyler Morris: sisters Velma Mal/ney, l>o« Myers, and Mary (Richard) Bennett: and the only dog she’s ever loved, Mazy. A celebration of life service was held on December 19. 2020. The service was held at New Life Assembly, 1490 E State Rd. in Hastings, with Rev. Ted Thomas of Bucyrus. Ohio officiating. The service was live streamed al www.facebook.conV GirrbachFuneralHome You do not need a Facebook account to view. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, to leave am online condolence visit www. girrbachfunefalhome.net. James John Spurgeon, age 56, of Hastings, passed away unexpectedly on December 13, 2020. Jim was bom on May 16, 1964 in Milwaukee. Wl, lhe son of Gerald B. Spurgeon and Beverly A. Spurgeon (Widder). Jim grew up in Milwaukee and attended Bay view High School before moving to Michigan where he continued his education through Gull Lake High School, receiving his diploma in 1983. He went on to *erve in the United States Army as a track vehicle repairer, with training at Fort Dix. New Jersey and Japan, as well as being stationed at bases in Hawaii and Georgia until Honorably Discharged in 1989. Jim had an admirably strong work ethic, took responsibility seriously, and worked hard to provide for his family. After his service, Jim rooted his home in Barry County, working locally at Bliss and Barry County Transit while studying diligently at Kellogg Community College lo pursue a career in manufacturing engineering. He earned his Associate of Applied Science in Manufacturing Technology from Kellogg Community College in 1991, and had a successful career with Blackmer/PSG in Grand Rapids for 23 years, being hired as a Lab Technician, advancing lo CAD Designer, and retiring as Project Manager. In retirement. Jim continued to keep bus) with his local handyman services and tmek driving, while also completing many of his own home remodeling projects, enjoying the wildlife and nature around him, and spending quality time with his family. Jim was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, and wildlife, especially when sharing those moments with his children and grandchildren. He knew how to have fun and had a great sense of humor. In his youth, he developed a love for drawing and music that continued throughout his life. Friends and family have so many memories of him to cherish... enjoying bonfires, listening to him play guitar and harmonica, fixing up cars together, working on house projects, experiencing the great outdoors together, family gatherings, children’s milestones, and the list goes on. On any given day, you could often find Jim working on one of his latest projects or hobbies. He loved to keep busy! He was amazingly talented in so many skillsets, and always gave 110% to ensure everything he did was lhe best it could be. He was phenomenal with carpentry/woodworking. building, home repairs, automobiles, engines, and so much more. He could build or fix anything! Those who knew' Jim well could tell you he was very loyal, honest, generous, respectful, hard-working, and genuine. Jim was the type of guy who is there for you when you need a hand. Through his example, his children learned his values of working hard, giving your best, doing what’s right, and taking care of family. Through the ups and downs of life, hardships made him stronger and appreciate what truly mattered. He deeply loved his I Barry County Road Commissioners of Barry County Mary L. Travis, of Delton, age P^sed a*ay on Thursday. Dec 17 '’OZO. Maryfiorn in ’Kalamazoo, on November 17. 1926. thc dauc|„er»f 'lle ate Claude and Gladys (VandenBurg) Delbndge. She was united in lnarriage «• rho,"“ nnts on December 15, 1945. He preceded death on April 30.’1994. „ Mary is survived bv her children. Kenneth Iravis.G()rd0ll TraviJ. Becky Gc°T and James Travis: eight grandchild"™ eight It-grandehildren; and several ’lc“S "nd •icpnews. „’k’7k? her Paints and husband' 'he was Preceded in death by her child"’"'. Charles and Beverly Tra' s W* Vahnda (Cole) Travis and nine >i|,lil’g,<' •„ ^:,,i,is^wP,ainwel1 -dS jolderstita-klein 343-2628 pc l’"' ’K iUna/(X)’N ..■.ie"ls b*: Department of Health and Human Services' recent COVD Eme'rgencJ Order and in accordance with the Open Meetinos Act ?h» P^c hearing will be conducted electronically at7:30 A.M. on December O I, Z.Ui'U. Citizens wanting to participate in the meeting may do so via Zoom at https ://zoom._ Bs/i/93534638591?P^’drWH||UF.5uyEb?^yyYjM.t^3dlc.Uo4Zzfl9 Meeting ID 935 2463 8591 Passcode: BarryCRC Dial by your location +1 929 205 6099 +1 301 715 8592 +1 312 626 6799 +1 669 900 6833 +1 253 215 8782 +1 346 248 7799 US US US US US US (New York) (Washington D C) (Chicago) (San Jose) (Tacoma) (Houston) Meeting ID: 935 2463 8591 passcode: 47881766 copy of the proposed budget is available for inspection by requesting a °°Py from the Barry County Road Commission al 269-945-3449. �fl look back at the stories and columns on local history In the Hastings Banner * BflGK THE PAGES Nearly 140 men with ties to Barry County served in the military during the SpanishAmerican War. Several have military headstones, and several have the distinct , grave marker. Barry County men in the Spanish-American War and served until 1911. finishing as sergeant. Cornelius Manni. Hastings, Michigan 32 1 Co. B. later U.S. 7th Regiment. 1879­ 1960. Riverside Cemetery, Hastings. He served in both the Spanish-American War and World War I. Because of his date of birth, he "as required to register for lhe draft during Conclusion Continued next page Amid one war, 1918 Banner reflects on 20th anniversary of another Kathy Maurer Copy Editor The portion of the Spanish-American War involving the sinking of the USS Maine and the United States’ subsequent liberation of Santiago, Cuba, from Spain lasted less than six months in early 1898. However. U.S. military personnel remained in Cuba and the Philippines - also seized from Spain - into 1902. With help from the late Harland and Nyla Nye, Joyce Wcinbrecht (who wrote a series of articles in 1998 that were recently reprinted in the Banner) and others had hoped to compile a book of Spanish-American War veterans from Barry County. While they weren’t completely successful in that effort, they were able to gather information on local men. Information on some of the men still is difficult to find, even with additional online resources not available to Wcinbrecht in 1998. Details on Barry County men. if available, includes rank, hometown, assignment, birth­ death dates, burial location, and possible additional notes. Some names were part of the introduction last week and arc again included in this alphabetical list. Pvt. Chester Garfield Engl ch art. Hastings. U.S. 12th Cavalry. Troop D. 1880-1952. Rutland Cemetery. Pvt. Frank H. Englehart. Hastings, Michigan 32nd. Co. B, 1878-1974. Brazil. Ind. Frank and his brother Chester remained in the military after lhe Spanish-American War, and both were discharged Jan. 30. 1905. from the U.S. cavalry. Frank made a career out of the military, enlisting six times, finally retiring in 1914. In their descriptions, military papers always list his hair as “brick red.’’ Pvt. Lauren Grant Evans, Assyria, U.S. 5th Artillery. Battery N, cook, 1872-1951, Washington, D.C. Soldiers Home Cemetery. Evans was a baker in the Army and in civilian life. He was in the military from 1894 to 1907. Lewis L. Fenton. .Middleville, 1868-1929, Mount Hope, Middleville. Pvt. Lodow’ick “Lodie” Fenton. Middleville, Michigan 35th. Co. K. musician. 1869-1943, Mount Hope. Middleville. Lt. Pyrle Adelbert Fowler, Hastings, U.S. Navy, 1*880-1928. became a dentist and worked in the Detroit area. Also served in World War I as dentist. Buried at Lakeview Cemetery. Nashville. Pvt. James F. France. Woodland. U.S. Hlh Infantry, Co. B, 1872-1925. Woodland Cemetery’. Pvt. William A. Frederickson. Prairieville. Michigan 35th, Co. L. 1870-1940, Prairieville Cemetery., Pvt. George H. Galletley, Prairieville, Michigan 34th, Co. F, 1875-1961, buried at Memorial Park Cemetery in Battle Creek. Nearly all of the men in Co. F of lhe 34th were frvm Houghton. Hancock. Calumet or other towns in the Keweenaw Peninsula area. Pvt. Glen W. Gale. Middleville. Michigan 35th Co. F. 1880-1914. buried at Oakhill Cemetery. Grand Rapids. He was working as a bartender in Grand Rapids when he contracted TB and died at 34. Pvt Henry Bennett (.amnion, Hastings, Michigan 34th, Co. K. 1879-1908. He attended the University of Michigan and became a physician, praclicmg in Hastings and Sorincport. He is boned in Creston. III. Pxj John Pahner/W. Garrison. Hastings, U S 17ti.Infantry, Co. C J 868-1950. Ohm Pvi William A. Gant. Woodland. h r, 34th Co. I. 1878-1959. 1-akeside Michigan 34U1, uu. the second World War. when he was 62. Pvt. George E Martin. Hickory Corners.U.S. I4lh, Co. G. 1878-1965. East Hickory Comers Cemetery. Served until 1905. Pvt. James Roberts Mason. Hastings. U.S Pvt. Homer C. Washburn, of Hastings, served with Co. B. of the Michigan 32nd Volunteer Regiment. He wrote a letter, reprinted in the Nov. 19 Banner, describing the improvements alter his regiment relocated to a healthier, friendlier camp, Pvt. James F. France of Woodland was in Co. B of the U.S. 11th Infantry. Cemetery , Lake Odessa. Pvt. Frank K. Giddings. Hastings. U.S. 2nd Infantry. Co. C. 1873-1947. Lakeside Cemetery. Lake Odessa. Dan Gillespie, Hastings. U.S. 3rd Cavalry. Troop D. 1873-1902. Before coming lo the U.S., he served in the British army in South Africa and won the Victoria Cross for distinguished conduct. He died while serving in the Philippines; his body was sent to Hastings for burial in Riverside Cemetery. Pvt. Henry C. Gosch. Middleville, U.S. 4th Infantry. Co. D. 1876-1954. Mount Hope. Middleville. S.E. Grant. Woodland (no other information) New York Stale native Coqi. Edwin W. Grants, of Middleville, served in Co. K of the Michigan 35th. He died of lung abscess in 1899 in Lancaster, Pa., and is buried in Canastota, N.Y. Pvt. Charles H. Green, Hastings, U.S. 116th Infantry, 1878-1948, Riverside Cemetery. Hastings. Pvt. John Grodavcnt. Cressey. Michigan 32nd, Co. D. 1879-1940. buried in Athens. Pvt. Edward B. Hamilton, Hastings, U.S. 9th Battery, U.S. Field Artillery. 1880-1939, buried in Litchfield. Pvt. Charlie 11. Hartford. Nashville, Michigan 35th Reg. Co. K. 1877-1943, Kalamazoo. Pvt. Frank E. Herrington. Dowling. Michigan 35th, Co. K. 1870-1844. Dowling Cemetery. Albert Hine, Schulz, U.S. 17th Infantry. Co. C. Pvt. George G. Hine, Castleton. U.S. 2n^ Infantry, Co. C„ 1878-1918/9. Riverside MICHAEL KINNEY PLUMBING Licensed Master Plumber I icensed Journeyman Plumber construction, remodel, repair, drain cleaning. N BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEATERS Same Day Installation Office (269) 948-2248 Mobile (269) 838-5H2 I icense #8110376 & Insured ( emetery. (His death certificate lists 1918 as the year he died, while his headstone has 1919.) Served until 1904. Pvt. John 11. Bine. Castleton. U.S. 2nd Infantry.Co.. 1876-1954..Springfield National Cemetery. Springfield, Mo. John C. Hine. Schulz. U.S. 17th Infantry, Co. C. 1873-1942. Brush Ridge ('emetery. Psi. William Albert Hitchcock. Hastings, U.S. 7th lnfantry .Co.il. 1874-1947.Riverside Cemetery. Hastings. Capt. Dr. Jesse Janies Holes. Hastings, Michigan 32nd. Medical Corps, 1872-1946. Florida. Pvt. John P. Hunsicker. Woodland, Michigan 34th. Co I. 1879-196--, Wadsworth. Ohio. Occupation at time of enlistment: butcher. * Pvt. Frederick Hunt, Johnstown. U.S. 41st Infantry, Co. F, 1876-1947. Iden Cemetery. Johnstown. Hunt lived into his early 70s. but he may have earned the title for father of the longest surviving child. His daughter Evelyn, bom in 1919, died just last year, in March 2019. shortly after turning 99. Pvt. Donald B. Jewell, Assyria. Michigan 31st, Co. E. 1879-1954, Union-Joy, Occupation at time of enlistment: student. Pvt. Benjamin Johnson. Carlton. Michigan 35th, Unassigned. Pvt. George X. Joslin, Middleville, Michigan 35th. Co. I. 1876-1954, Smyrna. Pvt. Ernest Keech. Hastings. Michigan 35th. Co. K. 1880-1907, Riverside Cemetery. Hastings. Died al 27 after fracturing spine and developing meningitis. A.D. Kniskern, Hastings, U.S. Commissary , 1861-1930, Riverside Cemetery . Hastings. Was promoted to brigadier general during World War I. "hen he was in charge of feeding and supplying the entire American Army. Pvt. Lewis Kunst. Middleville. U.S. Band. 19ih Infantry. 1876-1950; Riverbend Cemetery’. Grand Rapids. Pvt. David H- Lake. Hastings. Michigan 34th, Co. I. I860? (if so« hc 'vould hnve been 38 upon enlistment.) Howard J. Woodland. Michigan 34th. Co. I. 1R79-1945. buried in Colorado. Sgt. Robert Lewis. Hastings, Michigan 35th, Co. K. 1877-1963. Riverside Cemetery. Bastings. Occitpal,°n al time of enlistment: brick layer. . Pvi Aaron Lichty. Hastings. Michigan 34th.(’o. I’, 1851-1938. buried in Allegan? Pvt. Chari* iL Mrckindcr. Dowling. Michigan 32nd. Co. D. 1872-1948. Dowling Leineierv. r.. . Quartern.^ *?>• 1 » Mallory, Sashxille.MiMia"^h,-C,,:K-li!71-'953. l-ikcvie« Cei*lcD-s“s,,Vl1 c­ p.. Orl ]aac Mann. Hickory Corners. U,S | |th Infiuitry, Co. D.. 1879-1956. East Hickory Corners Cemetery. Returned to Army lhe following opinion article was pub­ former editor of the Michigan Christum lished in the July 11. 1918. Banner. Advocate, who delivered a very eloquent Twenty years ago. the hearts of Barry address. which he closed with a stirring County folks were with the youths who recital of “The Cavalry Charge.” were serving in lhe war against Spain. At 5:30 o’clock, a banquet was given I here were only a feu scores of them. for the returned soldiers and Lheir relatives. 1 lundreds wanted lo go. but they were not This was followed al 7 o’clock by a formal accepted because Uncle Sam had so many reception in the hotel parlors. The public men. he did not know what to do with them. then went into the dining room where P.T. The termination of the war with the fall Colgrove presided over a program of speak­ of Santiago, interrupted lhe enlisting of vol­ ing and music.’Ihe meeting concluded with unteer regiments all over the country. an address by Judge Clement Smith and Shafter’s army, which captured Santiago singing of “America.” and covered itself w ith glory in lhe battles The Spanish-American War does not oi Siboney, 1 as Gusimas. San Juan and occupy a high place in the world’s history other engagements that led up to the final for the value of tactical problems developed battle that caused Gen. Linares to surrender, in w arfare. Nor does it rank high among the was small in comparison with the mighty conflicts of nations. The U.S. only used a units making up the present American small portion of its armed forces. All of the Expeditionary Forces. men who served outside of the small regular Those were days of unpreparvdness. army were volunteers who were accepted sickness in unhealthy camps, decomposed only after the strictest kind of examination food and energy misdirected in feverish There were 10 volunteers for every one attempts to get lhe army ready for service. wanted. Barry County sent fewer than 50 men When the brief war ended, a great vol­ unteer army was in the process of training. (records show it was more than double that If Uncle Sam had (hen adopted a policy of number} to lhe Spanish-American War sim­ ply because the government did not want defense which would no( have caught him more. All were volunteers. A few of (hem peacefully smoking his pipe as he was when served in lhe regular army and participated Spain began throwing stones at him. he in the fighting in Cuba and Porto Rico, and would have been ready to use his big slick others were in the campaigns that followed upon lhe first nation that crossed the border in {the Philippines}. Most of them were and began hostilities or tried to force for­ never called to go outside of this country .... eign customs upon one of his States, or Most of the Barry County men served in blew up his ships after arbitrarily imposing (he 32nd Michigan Regiment, and Sept. 22. restrictions on ocean traffic. lhe day of their return from the Island Lake The Spanish-American War will go state guard encampment, was selected as a down in the world’s history for one import­ ant reason: The fact that it marked the elim­ time for honoring with a public demonstra­ ination from the world’s map of the last tion all of the soldiers who had come back. remnants of the colonial system of a dynas­ A special train on the CK&S Ry. brought ty that had been founded upon autocracy, lhe men from Woodbury al noon. A great crowd gathered at the station to cruelty, bigotry and intolerance - building materials that had crumbled under their welcome them. When lhe train pulled into weight and before the tremendous sweep of the station, every whistle and every bell in freedom during the past few centuries. the city welcomed them with the greatest In the entire war. the United States lost concentration of noise that had ever been fewer than 400 men killed. Spanish weak­ heard in Hastings. The soldiers were taken ness was only matched by American chaos to the Hastings House [hotel! where a big and inefficiency. Though this was lhe dinner awaited them. wealthiest of countries, the men suffered for At 2 o'clock, preparations for the parade lack of sufficient good food and from tow were made, 'l he Spanish war veterans and much bad food; though this country had die Civil War veterans formed in line and splendid locations for healthful camps, lhe marched to the school house where a parade men often suffered because they were com­ was formed. Headed by lhe Freeport band, pelled to live in unhealthy places in the lhe soldiers of ihe two wars marched down south where they were subjected to unsani­ Jefferson Street with 7(X> school children tary surroundings. and their teachers following. All carried One needs only to read Col. Roosevelt's flags. book to understand how difficult it is to The procession went cast on State Street organize an army and gel it ready lo fight as far as Michigan .Avenue, then returned to within a few months. It only leaves one to the courthouse square where the units were wonder what would have happened h J J the dismissed to attend some public exercises United Slates had an opponent other than on the Hastings House porch. The veterans decrepit old Spam, once lhe possessor ot of both wars were given scats on the porch. half of lhe New World, and claimant to all The speaker of lhe day was Rev. J.H. Potts, of it. D.D.. of Detroit, a Civil War veteran and ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 152774 ■ Hastings Charter Township Schedule of Regular Board Meetings forJ2j021 • January 12 • February 9 • March 9 • July 13 -August 10 • September 14 @ CP • April 13 • May 11 • June 8 • October 12 -November 9 • December 14 TIME: 7:00 PM PLACE: Hastings Charter Township Hall 885 River Road. Hastings, Ml 49058 Ph- 269-948-9o.0 CP - Designates regular meeting to be held at Charlton Park Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services . > ct the township clerk at least seven (7) days ir\ad/anre ojne n This notice posted in compliance with PA 267 of 197o _ K Meetings Act) MCLA41.72a(2)(3) and with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). ______________ �Page 8 — Thursday, Decmnbvf 24. 2020 — The Haatings Bwinef r Middleville. Michigan Pvf.E.THHj^.tf, coman Cemefcry, SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR, continued from page 7 . Nashville. Quartermaster 1st Lt. William D. or R. , McDonald. Hastings. - Michigan 35th. 1867ie Cemetery. ‘ 1950, Riverside Cemetery. Hastings. Hastings McNee. Middleville. Michigan Pvt. Elmer I ' ‘ _ 35th. Co. K. 1876-1920.buried in Idaho. Set. William F. Mcisel, Middleville, Michigan 33rd. Co. H. 1869-1944, buried in Bayi\tl Albert F. Hastings. Michigan 15th Co B 1873-1934, Striker Cemetery . Robert H MHchell. Irving, i• isch Co K. 1873'.Glendale,Calif. graduated from V> ;i of typhoid ^il^u^gfre-nPtnbPPin-Buned M Murphy, Hastings, . Pvt. Miltoni * • l965 Rivcrsi(Jc Michigan 3<.nd, • • n it, Nn-bhvillo. 2nd Infantry. Co. E. 1877-1951. Riverside Cemetery. Hastings Pvt. Jay Matteson. Middleville.Michigan 33rd. Co. G. 1878-1968. buried in Owosso. Pvt. Fred Matthews. Middleville, U.S, 19th Infantry and U.S. 23rd, 1871-1928, Mount Hope, Middleville. Wilbur A McDonald, Hastings. Michigan .......................... — ...................... 35th. Co. K. 1872-1933, Lakeside Cemetery, pvt. Willard II 1 Miehiuau.Vnd.c-, „ 87t |,>1'l-(’rCCn?'1O,’d Cemetery (hand r ' J|.. CXC“l,fl"On "mc ol enlistment: ba,,-,,,i,r ,, . Pvt. M.h.n, (»born. H^'fngs. Michigan ,14th. IS68-I*52. Cemetery. ' , 1st Sgt. Will;. , r; (hlHirn. Hastings, Michigan 32nd, |871-l^^‘ buried in Kalamazoo, Pvt. Cell O. Pcnn(K:k. Michigan 32nd. Co. C. 1S77-1in Arenac County. William “Middleville. US. 12th Infantry Co. H.'8|sl K. 1877-1938, cook. buried in Knox, Ind. , Pvt. Henry H. Pierce, Hastings. U.S. 2nd < TroopC, 1873-1945,buried in OnondagaBorn in Ontario and immigrated in 1891- Also served as a cook with the 339,h U.S. Infantry in World War I. Sgt. Albert E. Poland, Middleville U.S. Marines aboard U.S.S. Columbia. 1874-1905: remained in military until his death. Buried at Tjpress Hills National Cemetery, Brooklyn, Raymond D. Pratt, Delton, U.S. 20th Infantry, Co. H, 1878-1936; buried at Battle (reek Memorial Park. Served in military through 1908. CC "At WUfam> Ne‘-»nsMrehigiin 32nd. Co. D. 188M943, Uikeside Cemetery. ' ^Doctor Universe jfewbom babies Henry Wallyn Buehler, bom at Metro Health on November 20. 2020 at 11:59 a.m. to Zachary and .Maddison Buehler of Freeport. Weighing 6 lbs. 5 ozs. and 20 1/2 inches long. Proud grandparents are Jerry and Kim Buehler of Freeport and Wall and Stacy Keeler of Lake Odessa. . *♦ Brooks Izcc Fulcher, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on November 22, 2020 to Emily Fulcher and Ted Fulcher of Bellevue. Nicholas Junies Mlles Gardner, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on November 27, 2020 to Shannon Lynne Gartee and Louis Joseph Gardner of Battle Creek. Amelia Noelle Meyers, bom at Spectrum •Health Pennock on November 27, 2020 to Tandra Meyers and Kivan Meyers Jr. of Hastings. Bentley Alan Wenger, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on Dtxcmlx. . ' Amber Lee Burhans and Joshua Alan Wcngc of Vermontville. Vermontville. Oakland Avery Miller, bom at sFJ*Jn1"’ Health Pennock on December 3, Emma Miller and Adam Miller of Hastings. Rylce James Whelpley, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on December 2, 2020 to Brittney Lynn Cowles and James Lee Whelpley Jr. of Nashville. Provided by the Barry County offices oj Edward Jones Jim Lundin . Member SI PC a,r" Jeff Domenico, AAMSO 450 Meadow Run Dr. Suite 100 Hastings, Ml 49053 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 818-0423 (269)948-8265 Investment lessons from 2020 , p • As the year draws to a ■ close, it’s fair to say that •.* we’ve all learned some• ’ thing about the social, political, physical and >.- environmental forces that • have affected everyone. And, in some ways, our . lives will be changed, per• > haps permanently. But as • an investor, what lessons can you leam from 2020? Here are some to con• • a sider: ' • The markets look ahead. Here’s something many investors discov'. - ered in 2020: Investment ; prices don’t always move " in the same direction as the overall economy. This might not have seemed ■ apparent right after lhe COVID-19 pandemic struck in mid-February, as • • the overall economy and ’ the stock market took big ' hits. But just about five weeks later, the markets began a rally that lasted ' several months. During this lime, the economy .' also recovered somewhat, but still remains on weak footing. . What can explain this - discrepancy between the markets and economic activity? Essentially, eco: nomic numbers, such as • the unemployment rate and gross domestic prod­ . uct (GDP), reJflect.w,h“^ happening today. bul d><markets are always look• ing toward tomorrow, which means they are an­ ticipating a stronger eco­ nomic recovery and the results that come with it. such as greater corporate earnings in 2021. No one can say for sure what the future holds, but you can usually know lhe mar­ ket’s opinion by its per­ formance. • Opportunities will al­ ways exist for investors. Although the coronavirus seems unprecedented, the equity markets have re­ bounded from many cri­ ses before it. From war lo global financial melt­ downs, the market has seen it all. But even at the height of these events, when the markets might be most affected, individ­ ual segments or industries can do well. For example, in the cur­ rent environment, when many people have been forced lo work and shop from home, and get their entertainment online, it’s probably not surprising that some parts of the technology sector have seen their economic ac­ tivity grow, along with their stock prices. Here’s lhe key point: Investment opportunities always ex­ ist, especially in limes of market stress - and smart investors will find them and incorporate them into their portfolios in a way that’s appropriate for lheir SP Corp- f^pEmcr 1879-1954. R-vers.de cemete'ry. Hasting• ingSt Michigan 32nd, Pvt Fred R^k’Hi ' ;ne Cemetery. n 1380-1939. Barryv«nc , s Navai Co. B, 1880 I Hastings. U’£'9.I959> George K°CI\’ NeWS. Va‘ I87/ ir e Constructor, NcWP® sefVe with the: U.S. (He would conunu » ro|e in Worid Navy, Iaking. ioktyn shipyard repurposed War I when the Brool: \ . captured German vessels. Michigan Pvt.Henry D death certificate 35‘h. Co. K. 1877-1898would be stated the "proposed e However, Mount Hope Cemetery, online cemetery his name is not included m onlin Arkansas. Occupation at time o ETrFrank Adolph (or Otto) Sdaumann. Th turn Elizabeth Pruitt, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on December 5. Elizabeth Pruitt and Zachary Pruitt of 2169 W.M-43-Hwy., Suite A s, u:.s. information. 35th, Homer Ryan. Nashv.lle, Michigan ^8 Co. K. 1878-1954. buried in Brane pvt. William J- SaJ$ v* 1R75-1932, Nashville, Michigan 35th. Co. K. ^jsUnenl; **♦»* Financial FOCUS ’ - * MidAmerican War vet- goals and risk tolerance. • Patience and disci­ pline can pay’ dividends. As mentioned above, lhe stock market dropped sharply in the weeks im­ mediately following the pandemic, but then gained steadily for months af­ terward. Investors who tried to ‘‘cut losses" and exited the market likely did so at the wrong time and missed out on the beginning of the upturn. Unfortunately, this is not uncommon - investors who overreact to market declines often find them­ selves on the investment sidelines just when a new rally begins. Rather than being reactive in this way, you may be better off sticking with a long-term investment strategy, and buying and selling invest­ ments only when it makes sense for your situation, such as when you need to diversify your portfolio. For many reasons, it’s unlikely that we’ll sec anything exactly like 2020 again. But some of lhe investment lessons wc learned are applicable in every year - so keep them in mind for 2021 and be­ yond. This article was writ­ ten by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC Keeping water in the pond Dr. UniverseWhy does wuter in ponds not get soaked up by the dirt at the bottom? Rocky, 11 < California Dear Rocky, I hat’s a great observation. If we investi­ gated the bottom of a pond, we might find some different things. Besides a few fishes and frogs swimming around, we might observe mud, algae, rocks and soil at the bottom. My friend Joan Wu. a hydrologist at Washington State University, is curious about the water on our planet. She told me a few different earth materials help keep pond water from seeping into the ground. Let’s imagine we Tilled ajar with one of these earth materials: rocks. Inside lhe jar. we would see some gaps between lhe rocks. If we poured water into the jar. the water would be able to move into those empty spaces. But now let's $ay wc had a jar of rocks, and we poured in some sand. This lime, the grains of sand would fill spaces between the rocks. Next, we could add particles of earth called silt that are so small they could fill in any spaces between the grains of sand. Finally, w e could add some even smaller particles of day In thepr - or the bottom of a pond - these materials are packed together. The material isn’t very permeable, which means it can keep the liquid from passing through it. “Over a long, long time, the bottom of lhe pond itself exolvcsand changes.” Wu said. “The materials settle, and the little particles, or sediments, fill in the large pores." As water, wind, gravity and even ani­ mals break down rocks, lhe rocks become 2461 Heath Rd Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-2194 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS mo commission ZocmWling Township Board ZoomJteeling Planning im January 13, 2021 January 6, 2021 7:00pm 7:00pm „ ■ ,n the electronic meetings, please visit the township webpage at To join the e ew detailed instructions. a 1 Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University’s resident scientist and writer at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu or visit her website, askdruni verse .com. NOTICE TO CREDITORS Trust In tho matter of Donald L Chrispens. Trust dated Decedent’s Trust In the Matter of Dorothy M Mayo Trust dated February 5.2004. Date of B.rth November 19,1920 TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS The decedent. Dorothy M. Mayo, died Octobfi-16. 2020. leaving the above Trust in full force and effect. Creditors of lhe decedent or against the trusts'0 notified that all claims against the decedent or rust will bo forever barred unless presented to Stev^ E. Mayo, trustee, within 4 months after the date d pubucavon of this notice. Date: December 17. 2020 Rhoades McKee PC Stephanie S. Fekkes P43549 150 W. Court Street, Ste. A Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-1921 Steven E. Mayo c/o Rhoades McKee PC. 150 W Court Street. Ste. A Hastings. Ml 49058 (269) 945-1921 Hastings, Michigan 49058 152B36 STATE OF MICHI6»N PROBATE COUP in >n RLE N0-SUPP fug a/Wa Carlo, In trie Matter ol Carly Joan" p y y J°TOn FrnnU _pRsONS includin9: NT£RESTED ^^(OS) «/«* ah\ n unknk n D‘ Vef9eson I" wbosa1« matter may b* unknown and whoso interest in ?Hecled by the follo*ir*~id on January .' (v,a - contact ^t. Sto. 302. M.rh00 p m at 206 w Cou1. - am M Doherty ^gan 49058 belore Jud^K oO for the following pu'P05* of child named «o Uetcrmino of jngham County, above, bcm 1/16/ 20l6 at Lan5’^‘n{ltc hI5 nghts r;nut6 hi 5 ughts Me nd,TmoCr ’A 2020 MelndaSueRugg.^^.,, C/O Rboatlus McKoe 15°;W.Coons,,* SM A Hastings. Ml 269-94 5-1921 September 7, 2016. TO ALL CREDITORS NOTICE TO CREDITORS’ Tho decedent Donald L Chnspens, bcm April 1. 1948. who lived a! 6998 Keller Road. Delton. Michigan d.ed December 3.2020 leaving a certa n trust under the name of Donald L Chnspens Trust, and dated September 7.2016, wherein the decedent was tho Settlor and Bonnie Steinman was named as the trustee serving at the time of or as a result of the decedents death. Cred.tors ol the decedent and o! the trust are notified that all claims aga-nst lhe decedent or aga nst tho trust will be forever barred unless presented to Bonnie Steinman tho named trustee at 10101 3 Mite Road, Plainwell, Michigan w.thin 4 months after tho date of publication of this notice. Date: 12/17/2020 Robert L. Byington 222 West Apple Street. P.O. Box 248 takenotice. aheannginstruclJOn y The following meetings for the month of January will be held electronically. Dr. Universe LEGAL NOTICES cOUNTY OF BAR" HEAR1NG PUBLICATION OF NOTICE «’ RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP 153008 smaller and smaller panicles that sink to the bottom of the water. When water runs across the Earth’s surface during a storm, or as snow melts, these fine materials also can end up in a pond. For the most part, these materials keep the pond from losing too much water, but sometimes a little does escape into the ground. Meanwhile, a little water also can escape into the air. "Eventually, you will lose water from the lop and from the bottom of a pond," Wu said. Wc lose the waler from lhe top of a pond through evaporation. You may know about evaporation if you’ve ever seen a puddle on a sidewalk that was there one day and gone the next. When the sun heats up die surface of water, the water can turn from a liquid into teeny tiny drops called vapor. 'The vapor rises up into lhe atmosphere where it may eventually become clouds. Those clouds help produce rain and snow that fall back into lakes, rivers and ponds. When we take the time to look, wc can find a lol of connections between our atmo­ sphere. water and earth. These systems shape many habitats for life on our planet. The next time you visit a pond, see what kinds of living things call it home. Who knows, maybe one day you’ll be a scientist who can help us leant more about the world of water. 269-945-9557 Bonnie Stemman 10101 3Mio Road Plainwell. M chigan 49080 152924 STATE OF MICHIGAN COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Trust In the Matter of Philip L Van Sycklo Trust, dated December 1.2012 TO ALL CREDITORS. NOTICE TO CREDITORS: Tho decedent, Philip L. Van Svckle who bved at 13550 Hutchinson Road, Dowling. Michigan 49050. died on December 9 2020. leaving a certain trust under tho name of Philip L. Van Svcklo Trust, dated December 1 2012 wherein lhe doeedent was the Settlor and Jimmy Robbins was named as Successor Trustee sennng at the time ol or as a resultol tho decedents death Creditors of the decedent and of tho trust are noblied that all claims agaInst the decodent or against the trust will bo foievot barred unless presented to Jimmy Robbins. Iho named Successor Trustee, at S Taco Attorney at Law. 202 South Broadway. Ha^ngl kbchgan 49059 within 4 months after tho data of publication of this notice. Date December 15. 2020 David H Tnpp(P29290) 202 South Broadway. Hastings. Ml 49058 (269) 948-2900 J'rnmy Robb'ns tvtz'xaq 9156 Lucilte Lane. Conroe. TX 77389 152789 152/uy Hastings, Michigan 32nd, Co. H. Forest Lawn, Glendale, Calif. c.;n<Tc Pvt. Gershum E. Severance. Hastings. Michigan 32nd, Co. B, 1874-1950. ive Cemetery, Hastings. ,, . Pvt. Henry S. Sheldon. Hastings. Michigan 35th, Co. K, 1876-1949. Riverside. Hastings. . Corp. Elmer Jay Showerman. Hastings, US. 19th Infantry. Co. Co. 1871-1920. East Sebewa Cemetery, Ionia County. Pvt. James A. Shull, Nashville. U.S. 6th Cav. Troop M, 1881-1970: Truth or Consequences, N.M. Pvt. Elmer G. Smith, Baltimore Township, Michigan 32nd, Co. B. Corp. Frank D. Smith. 23. of Nashville, already was serving in the regular Army, Battery E of the U.S. 4th Artillery, when the war began. His death certificate, under cause of death reads: "The above-mentioned Frank D. Smith was a Soldier at Fort Monroe, Va., and died at that place May 15, 1899. Body shipped to Nashville, Mich., and interred" Lakeview Cemetery, Nashville. Pvt. Frank M. Smith, Woodland, Michigan 31st Infantry, Co. F, 1869-1935, Woodland Cemetery. Pvt. Simon W. Smith, Irving, Michigan 35th, Co. K. 1872Pvt. Elmo M. Soule, Hastings, Oregon First Battalion, Co. D, 1877-1953, Riverside Cemetery, Hastings. He was bom in Hastings, but by the time he was 3, his family was living in Oregon. By 1900. he’d moved back to Michigan where he remained lhe rest of his life and was a member of local SpanishAmerican War veterans groups. Joel St. John, Woodland, 1838-1923, Woodland. (This name may have been an error. A Joel St. John of Woodland served in the U.S. Civil War.) Pvt. James Standley, Hastings, Michigan 32nd, Co. H., 1882-1926, buried in Wakefield. Continued to serve and was in Co. K. of the U5. 14^ Infantry. Pvt. Dell H. Sutton. Hastings, Michigan 32nd, Co. H. 1872-1959, Riverside Cemetery, Hastings. Pvt. Glenn E. Thggart, Hastings, Michigan 32nd, Co. C, 1878-1953, Irving Cemetery. Pvt. Milo W. VanArman, Hastings, US. 2nd Infantry, Co. K, 1879-1920, buried in Jackson. Pvt. Homer C. Washbum, Hastings, Michigan 32nd, Co. B. 1876-1964, Santa Barbara, Calif. Floyd Webster, Hastings, Michigan 35th, Co. K, 1880-1963. Dowling Cemetery. Hugh Levant Webster, Nashville, Illinois, 1st Reg. Co. F, 1876-1964, Freeport Cemetery. Herbert Merrill Wheeler, Nashville, Indiana, 57th, Co. G. 1876-1915, buried in Illinois. Corp. Charles A. Wibert, Hastings, U.S. 30th, Co. F, 1865-1935, Irving Cemetery. Henry Wickham, Carlton/Woodland. U.S. Navy, musician USS Nebraska, 1876­ 1940, Fuller Cemetery, Carlton Township. Was in Manila, Philippines. Pvt. Clarence E. Wiley, Michigan 35th Volunteer Regiment Co. K, 1882-1898, Rutland Cemetery. Pvt. Lyle A. Williams, Nashville, Michigan 35th, Unassigned, 1883-1948. Pvt. Spurgeon Wilson, Middleville/ Nashville, Michigan 35th, Co. K. 1879-?? Was married Nov. 6, 1911, and divorced less than three weeks later. Pvt. Albert Woodmansee, Dowling, Michigan 35lh, Co. K, 1875-1938, Dowling Cemetery. Pvt. Charles J. Wooley. Lacey. Michigan 32nd, Co. D. 1866-? Anyone with corrections or additions to this information is invited to send it via email to newsC4j-adgraphics.com. Sources for this series include research by the late Harland and Nyla Nye; Turning Point for America, Irving Wersteine; September 1998; Hastings Banner; Nashville News; New Standard Encyclopedia /95x’Die World Book, 1950; Michigan Public Act\ 1901,223; lbarryjnlgenwebx>rgtfanuh€arch org. findagravexom, Wikipedia, spanamwar com. usmm.org, nationalarchives,gov chroniclingamerica.loc.gov, ancestry com Hastings Public Library; Biographical Register of the Officers and Graduates of th' United Stales Military Academy ai Point, N.Y., George W. Cullum] �nhiic Library. m Banner - ThuaW- SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS Charles John Baughman. of Shelbyville, was convicted of assaulting, insisting ami obsinuling »♦ Ban) Count) sher ill’s deput) in Yankee Springs Township on Oct. H and was Mintenced by Barry Count) Judge Michael S<hipPer to serve 53 days jn jail with credit tor 53 dnvs >erved. ordered to Pay $398 in fines and sost.s and placed on probation lot 12 months, w ith requirements to Successfull) participate m the Office of Community (oneciiohs' Cog program, a long-term, cognitive beh;»v toral-bascd group treatment exclusively for OC'C-emolled offenders. Treatment addresses anti social and criminal thinking patients that contribute to criminal behavior Services are provided through the Barry Count) Community Mental I lealth Authority. and all referrals must partic ipate in a screening and assessment to lie determined appropriate for service. Mark Anthony Black II, 22, of Holland, was convicted o: assaulting, resisting and obstructing a police officer and disturbing the peace in Barry Township on Aug. 8 and was sentenced by Judge Schippcr to concurrent jail terms of 365 days on the first charge and 90 days on the second charge, with credit for one day served. He w as ordered to pay $566 in fines and costs and placed on probation for 36 months. Heidi Kris Braddum. 44. of Hastings, was convicted of being a felon in possession of a fireann and sentenced by Judge Schippcr to two days in jail, with credit for two days served, ordered to pay $398 in fines and costs and placed on probation for 24 months. A charge of accessory after the fact to a felony was dismissed by the judge. Jason Lee Braddum. 45. of Hastings, vyas convicted of accessory after lhe fact to a felo­ ny and sentenced by Judge Schippcr to serve two days in jail, with credit for two days served, ordered lo pay $398 in fines and costs and placed on probation for 24 months. He was ordered lo pay $30 a month lor each month of regular supervision during probation and $60 a month for each month of electronic monitoring supervision. (’hnrles Robert Roscoe. 28. of Delton, was convicted of assault or assault and battety, domestic violence and breaking and entering/illegal entry in Yankee Springs Township on July 12 and sentenced to concutrvnl terms ol 90 days in jail on the three counts. r\ charge of first degree home inva­ sion was dismissed by Judge Schippcr. who ordered Roscoe to pay $680 in fines and costs. In a second case. Roscoe was convicted of assaulting, resisting and obstructing a Hustings police officer on Aug. 13 as a habitual offend­ er and was .sentenced by Judge Schippcr lo 90 days in jail w ith credit for one day served. He was ordered to pay $398 in fines and costs and placed on probation for 24 months, and instructed to participate in and successfully complete the Office of Community Corrections’ Cog program. Bradley John Rugg. 37. of Bellevue, was convicted of second-degree criminal sexual conduct involving a victim under the age of 13 and was sentenced by Judge Schippcr to serve 38 lo 180 months in prison with credit for 298 days served. He was ordered to pay $998 in fines and costs. Lawrence John Schaidt IV. 44, of Wayland, was convicted of assaulting, resist­ ing and obstructing a Michigan State Police trooper in Thomapplc Township on Sept. 8 and was sentenced by Judge Schippcr to 62 days in jail with credit for one day served. He was ordered lo pay $398 in fines and costs, placed on probation for 24 months and instructed to .serve 90 days on the Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor (SCRAM) program, and pay a $40 per month drug court fee. He is to be released from jail on Feb. 1,2021. A charge of trespassing was dismissed by lhe judge. David Conrad Wooten Jr., 50. Plainwell, was convicted of assaulting, resisting and obstructing a police officer in Orangeville Township on Aug. 9 and was sentenced as habitual offender by Judge Schippcr to 217 days in jail with credit for 37 days served. He was ordered to pay $998 in fines and costs and placed on 36 months of probation. His Anthony Joseph Collins, 28. of court record showed prior convictions for Middleville, was convicted of failure to pa) attempted concealing or misrepresenting the child support as a habitual offender and sen­ identity of a motor vehicle with intent to mis­ tenced by Judge .Schippcr to serve 64 days in lead on Nov. 21. 1996, fourth-degree fleeing jail with credit for 64 days served. He was and eluding on May 26. 1998. and maintain­ ordered to pay $12,704 in fines and costs; ing a drug house on May 25. 2011, all in $12,306 of that amount is restitution. He was Barry County; and delivery and/or manufac­ placed .oi; prpb;iiion tor, •if) jponihs. Collins ture of Ecstacy on Aug. 8. 2003, in Allegan was the victim who was stabbed multiple’ County. In a second case. Woolen was convicted of times ;md whose, throat was slit by David Kreb-, II on Sept.,5.7019. Collins, who was in aggravated stalking, involving a repeated or jail on lhe failure to pay child support charge, continuous harassment of a man in Orangeville was brought from jail to testify against Krebs Township between April 30 and May 31. He during a jury trial in. Jul). Krebs. 30. of was sentenced by Judge Schippcr to 37 days Vermontville, was .subsequently convicted in jail with credit for 37 days served and and sentenced to eight lo 15 years in prison ordered to pay $398 in fines and costs. for assault w ith intent to do great bodily harm. Hunter VanValkenhurg. 21. of Hastings, Tammy Sue Pustcma. 54. of Delton, was was convicted of unlawfully taking and driv­ convicted of possessing a controlled sub­ ing away a motor vehicle and was sentenced stance. methamphetamine, in Irv ing Tow nship by Judge Schippcr lo sene 92 days in jail on Sept. 9 and sentenced by Judge Schipper to with credit for 92 days served. He was 180 days in jail with credit for 77 days served. ordered to pay $398 in fines and costs and She was ordered lo pay $398 in fines and placed on probation for 24 months. costs atul placed on probation for 24 months Sirrcck Victor Raymond Wright. 18. of with instructions to complete the OCC and COG programs. Court records show she had Lowell, was convicted of assaulting, resisting prior convictions for use of the narcotic and obstructing a Michigan State Police cocaine/Ecstacy on May 13.1997, possession trooper in Middleville on Sept. IO and sen­ of methamphetamine on March 27. 2013, tenced by Judge Schippcr to serve 180 days in possession of marijuana on Feb. 13. 2016, and jail with credit for 14 days served He was possession of methamphetamine on Aug. 14. ordered to pay $898 in fines and costs. 2019. Banner CLASSIFIEDS CALL... The Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 PUBLISHER’** NOTH'1 For Sale Help Wanted CARRON SPORT AIR Hock­ ey Table. $300.00 OBO. Phone 269-90S-165-1. TRUCK DRIVER WANTED; Candidates must have a CDL with a "T" endorsement, ex­ perience and a good driving record. Duties include loading and hauling logs and lumber with double bottom trailers. Applicant will learn to operate a front end loader and work off road. Competitive wage based on experience and includes a full benefit package. Apply in person at Quality Hardwoods Inc., 396 Main St., Sunfield, Ml 48890. Business Services wefercHLT. 7ht whxh i »e<Jrr • li. fhcHI D: BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for pricing. Will buy single Wal­ nut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging. (269)818-7793. MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, efr. C all 269-89-L7fi0o, BELLS CONSTRUCTION- J8 years experience. Dry’ wall, painting, tile, flooring, trim, home improvements, rubbish removal. 269-320-3890. Agency names its top 10 sites for 2020 part ofr^niinnit preventing it. Youcanhelpfop^ You can help stop scam­ .... ..................................................................................... ’nclndcs online booklets and pamphlets mers by learning more at ssa.gov/antifraudincluding audio versions) on key subjects, at '•>"*1“ Va!! r<l Our onlii'c $c^'‘^tll<>utn vJiiV’" 'l' '''I business with ,s,l">g » local ■Open >•>«' °^r ,T M> Seeuritv aco-ttn-. u «n unfy your earnin-s -et h"utv ' / '•■""nates, obtain heiKfit serincatio" hi ' update your S.xial Security informal"'" " neene benettts. and more, at ।l11,i>Un! eontinue to add new feature'' to make dontg business with us easier than e'er -Need answers I" >'-hostal Securityrelated questions-’ O'" •'"‘lUently asked qttes. lions page is the authoritative source at ssa. gov/faq. . • i c . -Our hub for Scc’a Scv«nty news and updates is our blog :U socialsecurity.gov. You can use social niedni to easily share these informative articles w ith friends and family. -You can complete and submit our online application for retirvnient benefits in as little as 15 minutes at ssa g0'-retirement. -You can apply ^,r disability benefits online nt ssa.goy/benetils/disability. -The Six'inl Security publication library Brief power outage caused by equipment failure Greg Chandler Staff Writer A portion of the Hastings area lost power for more than two hours Monda) afternoon. The outage was reported at 12:21 p.m. in the 2400 block of VVasabinang Street. The outage was the resuH <>l an equipment failure, but it’s not known what caused the equipment to fail. Consumers knergy spokeswoman Debra Dodd said. • • A total of 178 cuslAmdrsiv'ere affected by the outage. Power was restored to the area by 2:41 p.m., Dodd said. facts Wc. care about giving you easy access to die information you need from us. Feel free to share these pages with your friends ;ind fami- V'tWrz Wm 77/ /.» the public affairs speciall^?r Michigan. You may write her do Social Security Administration, 3M5 Knapp Grand Rapids Ml 49525 or via email to LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent's Estate FILE NO. 20-28660-DE Estate of Dennis Lynn Whitney Date cf birth 10/08/1957 TO ALL CREDITORS. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The decedent. Denn s Lynn Whitnoy. died 09/16/2020 Creditors cf the decedent are notified that all claims against the estate will bo forever barred unless presented to Carter Wnitney. personal fepresentative. or to both the probate court at 206 VV. Court Street 0302. Hastings, Ml 49058 and the persona! representative w.thin 4 months after the date of publication of this notice. Date: 12/15/2020 Jackie Baker P76955 137 W State St. Hastings. Ml 49058 269-945-3999 Carter Whitney 8685 S Jasonville Ct Caledonia. Ml 49316 269-838-9171 152767 GET AU THE NEWS OF BARRY COUNTY! Subscribe to the Call 269-945-9554 for more information. ^nda.vantil^^a.gov LEGALNOTICES SYNOPSIS Hostings Charter Township Virtual Meeting December 15, 2020 Meeting called to order at 7:00 p.m. Al! board members present. Approved all consent agenda items Ordinance 2020-01 Hoodplain Management final approval 2021 Budget adopted 2021 meeting dates approved 2021 Poverty guidelines and Asset test established Approved payment of bills Dept, reports received and put on file Motion to adjourn 7:47 pm Respectfully submitted, Anita S Mennell - Clerk Attested to by Jim Brown - Supervisor 152975 STATE OF MICHIGAN BARRY COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT CASE NO. 20-787-CH HON. VICKY LASPAUGH LEE SHUMWAY, as Trustee of lhe Douglas & Christine Shumway Living Restated Trust, under a Declaration of Trust dated August 23. 2004, as amended. Plaintiff. v UNKNOWN OWNER or her or his unknown heirs, devisees, or assignees, Defendant. Sara Lachman (P67523) Lachman Stuart PLC Attorneys for Plaintiff 15 Ionia SW, Suite 520 , , Grand Rapids, Ml 49503 616 208.5533 slachmant^lachmanstuart com MOTION Hastings Banner. Call 269-945-9554 any time for Hastings Banner classitien ans a.gov/pubs. You can leant everything you need to know about Medicare at our dedicated page, * sa.gov/bcncfits/medieare. -There’s no need to call or visit a local oilice w hen you use our online services page at ssa.gov/onlincservices. I or times when you need to fill out a form and submit it to us. find what you need at Ssa. gov'forms. • Reporting Social Security fraud is a key 2.106(D) This action involves a Scrivener’s error in a deed's property deaenption for real property located in Barry County. Michigan, desenbed as follows: Commencing at tho northwest comer of Sec­ tion 35, town 4 north, range 10 west, for a place of beginning, thence south 21 chains 70 links, thence east to the bank of the river 41 chains, 30 links, thence northwesterly along the west bank of said river to post No. 6 United Slates Survey, thence west on section line to place of beginning, EXCEPTING THEREFROM commencing at the northwest corner ol said section 35. thence south on section line 15 rods 10 feet, thence east to center of highway, thence northwesterly along center of said highway to section line, thence due west along said section line to place of be­ ginning. ALSO EXCEPTING therefrom a parcel ol land conveyed to Charles H Ring and Marion C Rmg as recorded in Uber 151 of deeds on page 597 and ALSO EXCEPTING therefrom a parcel conveyed to Vinal V. Tabor and Evelyn Ta­ bor. as recorded in Uber 207 of deeds on page 242, being part of the northwest 1/4 of section 35, town 4 north, range 10 west. Thornappfe Township. Barry County. Michigan In the underlying action, the Plaintiff, Lee Shum­ way. as the Trustee of lhe Douglas and Christine Shumway Restated Trust, under a Declaration of Trust dated August 23.2004. as amended (Trustee! seeks to correct the Property's description and quiet title to the property in the Trust or, in the alternative, obtain title over the orphan strip of property that was inadvertently created in favor of the Trust based on adverse possession. Defendant is an unknown person or her or his un­ known heirs, devisees, or assignees, who may claim an interest in the property. Because lhe identity of anyone who may claim such an interest is unknown and presently unknowable, in the present motion, the Trustee seeks this Court s authorization to effect service of process through publication tn accordance with MCR 2.106(D) Based upon lhe facts asserted in the Plaintiff's Venhed Motion lor Service Under MCR 2.106(D) and being otherwise fully informed, tho Court finds that lhe Trustee has suttibentiy shown that service of pro­ cess cannot reasonably be made upon Defendant in a manner provided under MCR 2.105. THEREFORE. IT IS ORDERED that: 1. Trustee's Verified Motion for Alternative Service is GRANTED 2 Per MCR 2.105(1), this Court pennits service of process to be made in accordance with MCR ? 106(D) such that service shall be deemed complete upon. Plaintiff publishing a copy of tne contents of this Order once each week for 3 consecutive weeks in tho Hastings Banner (tho -Publication Period'). 3 No mailing under MCR 2.105(D)(2) is necessary as there is no Iasi known address. 4 if no Answer lo the Complaint has been filed with this Court and served upon Plaintiff within 21 days of the lust date of the Publication Period, this Court shall enter a Default and Default Judgment in favor of Plaintiff IT IS SO ORDERED. Dated November 30.2020 Hen. Vicky L Aspaugh Bany County Circuit Court Rt . Order does not resoNe tho last pending claim or close the case. 152183 SYNOPSIS RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP REGULAR BOARD ZOOM MEETING December 9, 2020 - 7:00 p.m. Regular meeting ca'ted to order and Pledge o ASeg.ance. Present Belmore, James. Spencer. Haft. Watson. Hawthorne, Greenfield Absent. None Approved the Agenda Approved the Consent Agenda Monthly Treasurer’s Report Monthly Oerk’s Vcucher/Payroa Report Reappointed Nidae Ha^.t to the Joint Planning Commission Appointed Gene Han to the BIRCH Ftre Board Accepted the recommendation from the Panning Commisson Pubic Hearing & Accepted First Reading cl Ordinance 42021-177 - Proposed Text Amendments of Chapter 220 (Zoning) Approved Resolution #2020-263 - 2021 Township Board Meeting Dates & Holiday Schedule Approved Resolution 42020-264 - 2021 Township Board Compensation Approved Resolution 42020-265 - 2021 Township Budget Appointed Craig Rolfe, Attorney of Record, Prein & Newbof. Engineer cl Record & Siegfried & Crandall. Auditor of Record Approved the SextonGrounds/Janitorial Contract with HaUrfax Services Adjournment 7:40pm Respectfully submitted, Rob-n Hawthorne. Clerk Attested to by, Larry Watson. Supervisor 153007 NOTICE QF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE This firm is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information we obtain will be used tor that purpose. Notice of foreclosure by advertisement. Notice Is given under section 3212 of the revised judicature act of 1961. 1961 PA 236, MCL 600.3212. that the following mortgage will bo foreclosed by a sale of the mortgaged premises, or some part of them, at a public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash or cashier's check at the place of holding the circuit court in Barry County, Michigan, starting promptly at one o’clock in the afternoon on Thursday, the 14th day of January. 2021. The amount due on the mort­ gage may be greater on the day of the sale. Placing lhe highest bid at the sale does not automatically entitle the purchaser to free and dear ownership of tho property. A potential purchaser is encouraged to contact the county register of deeds office or a title insurance company, either o! wh*ch may charge a fee for this information. Tho mortgage was made by KRISTA ANN SHEL­ DON. a single woman (’Mortgagor), to GREEN­ STONE FARM CREDIT SERVICES. FLCA. a feder­ ally chartered corporation, having an office at 3515 West Road. East Lansing. Michigan 48823 (the •Mortgagee*), dated July 17. 2009, and recorded in the office of lhe Register of Deeds for Barry Coun­ ty. Michigan on July 24. 2009, as Instrument No. 200907240007681 (lhe •Mortgage*). By reason of a default under the conditions of tho Mortgage, the Mortgagee elects to dedare and hereby dedares the entire unpaid amount of the Mortgage due and payable forthwith. Mortgagee is lhe owner of the indebtedness secured by lhe Mortgage. As ol the date of this Notice there Is daimed to be due for principal and interest on the Mortgage the sum of Sixty Nine Thousand Eight Hundred Eight Six and 05/100 Dollars ($69,886.05). No suit or proceeding at law has been instituted to recover the debt secured by the Mortgage or any part thereof. The premises covered by the Mortgage are situ­ ated in the Township of Thornapple. County of Bar­ ry. State of Michigan, and are described as follows: Lot 21. Sandy Knolls, according to the recorded plat thereof in Liber 5 of Plats. Page 59 of Barry County Records Together with all fixtures, tenements, heredita­ ments. and appurtenances belonging or in any way appertaining to the premises. Commonly known as. 2092 Fawn Avenue. Mid­ dleville. Michigan 49333 P.P. #03-14-120-020-00 Notice is further given that the length of the re­ demption period will be six (6) months from the date of sale, unless the premises are abandoned. If the premises are abandoned, the redemption period will be the later of thirty (30) days from tne date of the sale or upon expiration of fifteen (15) days af­ ter tho Mortgagor is given notice pursuant to MCLA §600 3241a(b) that the premises are considered abandoned and Mortgagor. Mortgagor s heirs, ex­ ecutor, or administrator, or a person lawfully dat­ ing from or under eno (1) of them has not given the written notice required by MCLA 9^00 3241a(c) stating that the premises are not abandoned If the premises are sold at a foreclosure sale under MCLA §600.3278 me Mortgagor write» held responsible to the person who bu^the ’LT?™ tne mortgage foreclosure sale or to the N ortyagee for damaging the premises during the redempaon ^Attention homeowner. If you are a notary ser­ vice member on active duty.11J. 5***° duty has concluded less than 90 days ago. or ft you have teen ordered to act.se dutyp ease contact the attorney for tho party at lhe telephone number stated ■ • AR&H SERVtCES. FLCA Mortgagee Timotny I l.i,nD LLP WARNER nOBCR0^Su^'aD1500 150 Ottawa Avenue NW b.e 500 Grand Rapids. Ml (616)752-2000 210136611 51880 �■XV'O— The H.isW‘Bannof ■ $9.4 million wastewater upgrade zeroes in on efficiency, maintenance ^geiO-.-Thursday-’ ■ like fiushable wipes, solid that goes in process « ^«uoaH"-’andw,r,,-,he Sophie Staff Writer Stuff Wrtur . . , construction ibis past Arter oeg!n»H«e- 1 spnng. Hastings - •*-I he P'Additions to dlc ^"ciXV^d'ffcren' tu«,» •” • Hw estimated । >()i j track foiaWipl«i<‘"",MI-’ will improve the plant . (li|ding ways than the headwo upgraded locker Increased office t Lj records storage rooms and added ‘ r0Vements for the are lhe main areas of imj wjH a||()W for administrative building- ’ whkb hopefuIIy better working conditions, jrhjv. he said, will help the plant run more . • includes The nearly $10 throughout many other, smaller impro equipment, the plant, such as replacing old eq pm ;t, officials ’ Said • ~ and uperade the plant had Plans to rnipA • I• issued an in the in ?0l9 for a.tmhn .tn.t.ve ’ viol#(ions> M',;''i’,7,C^M"n.’rerk.TV<>;lrneeki. "^’ii'tlat.^ XK.-TV rrtmanly caused by or nne gening at the 1‘ ‘ I . frr.Mks raw wastewater pumps faring thCe end of tbeir ..sabil.ty, decrepit UV j-""fation oiiupnient and mow. Czarnecki Sa’«\Vc wen* already planning to do this, but, b\ doing dns update. that will help address some of d*'*‘ requirements ,hat lhe stntc »ave us h*improvement-. he -aid. Tire city ha< had similar violation issues m the pa*>i- A 5tr‘n2 01 inspections from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great j^kes and I-nercs since 2016 resulted in an ^O.(XX) fine for the city during late summer. Violations ranged from effluent limit violations for phosphorus in 2016 to accidental pjjca.se of partially treated sewage into an adjacent street, gravel lol and dog park in 2018. j-The Muff we got lines for. a lot if it was. again, not meeting jx-nint regulations or when lhe) did an on-site visit having some machinery that wasn’t maintained as well as it should have been.” Czarnecki said. The last of these violations were recorded in March 2019 when levels of phosphorus, ammonia nitrogen and mercury effluents •exceeded state limits and the city failed to submit reports to the state. ;While these violations are a serious matter. Enforcement Analyst al EGLE Laura .Mathews said, an administrative corrective order is a •fairly common avenue for state regulation is Constructionr at lhepSnu7a!ilbes ,h6 addili°n k’ “ t]eadw°*s bui,ding (above, on left), which will be the first step in the plant p - P ’’Utants so can be released into the Thornapple River. (Photo by Scott Harmsen) 'he said...’’^Vtincrcasing y *na enforcement. t _. is increasing tne the cn,cicnc efficiency and “The pennit violations observed a the City hoping to dec^ } wcar and tear on the removal and solids management deficiencies in the treatment system.” --------” of Hastings Wastewater Tfcatment Plant were ^“‘Pn^trhatT. town there. Previous to the update, the plant did not ongoing and reoccurring, such that EGLE '. The project fcl.. /two focus areas: have a headworks building, allowing determined escalated enforcement was i insertion WihiZL _|jcs building and appropriate. An administrative consent order additions lo the*piant’s administrative completely untreated sewage to enter the plant. is several steps into EGLE’s enforcement building. “The headworks building — this is process for resolving permit noneomphance, A "asfcwalcrireal)ncnt plot's headworks something really wc should have had all Mathews said. “EAGLE appreciates the City hrc w«stewater enters the plant. Before along, and now we’re putting in place,” of Hastings’ cooperation and progress to rT?n? hcadworks building, the sewage is Czarnecki said. “This will definitely help our comply with the requirements of the filtered for larger items — such as flushable efficiency by being able to take (larger wipes. This is the first step to reducing the pollutants] out.” administrative consent order, Shortly after, the consulting engineering Hjvel of pollulanis in wastewater, so it can A headworks building benefits the entirety company Hubbell, Roth & Clark Inc. be discharged back into the Thornapple River. of the plant because it prevents numerous presented the city with a plan to remedy these Meadworks provide preliminary treatment pumps and pipes from being clogged or violations, and lhe city has not received a in the waste water treatment system process. damaged by pollutants, Czarnecki said. violation since. Czarnecki said. nequate preliminary treatment can decrease “We have a lot of pumps that kind of push Czarnecki - who recently toured the plant overall treatment plant efficiency and cause all of this wastewater through the system. And and reviewed the changes for the first time operational problems elsewhere in the what happens is, if we have stuff in the system — said the updates primarily focus on treatment system,” said Chris Bauer, a senior that is not going to break down when wc try bringing the plant up to date, with longevity environmental quality analyst at EGLE. who to push it through the system, it gets caught up is familiar with the Hastings plant and the in the machinery or gets caught up in the as the top priority. “It’s an updating of the system. I think corrective order. “The headworks upgrade, pipes, and then greatly reduces our efficiency we’re pushing 20, almost 30, years since the along with other equipment upgrades, was there and puts a lot of wear and tear on the last upgrade that we’ve done or anything that proved by the City of Hastings as a means equipment,” he said. “We’re removing the we’ve done in the wastewater treatment plan.” to address permit violations related to grit stuff that’s solid, like grit or dirt - anything repairing handrails and s u’,;idineodor control to the headworks To cover the project’s cos *• . out a bond. City residents will« fa|es through a slight increase in their. over the next several years. "We’ve done a bond that we wt pay <>» moving forward, and that’s been but sewage rates going forward.” Czarnec • “So. it’s been planned for residents. Eac / will see, in the sewage rates, a slight increa c each year, a small percentage — between a 2- and 3-percent increase each year — to he p offset the cost of what this is. “We’re taking a bond out so that we can build it. people can use it and then they re going to pay it back while they’re using it as opposed to trying to save up and then build it.” Investing in the replacement of old equipment and processes al the waste water treatment plant now means the city should spend less on maintaining the plant in the long run. Czarnecki said. This is, ultimately, aimed at saving the city money in the future, he said. “What we’re hoping it’s going to do is it’s going to improve again the efficiency of the wastewater plant,” Czarnecki said. “We’re creating it so that wc can continue to do this process, efficiently and effectively, into the long term.” Michigan health officials wrestle with who gets COVID vaccine next Bridge Magazine -»As early.doses of COVID-19 vaccines arrive in Michigan, there’s no dispute over who’s first in line: frontline hospital workers and medical first responders who have battled {he virus for months. Next up. accqiding to state plans: staff and thp mostly elderly residents of long-term .facilities that account for more than a third of lhe state’s overall coronavirus death total, which has surpassed 11 XK.X). ... But with initial doses of (he vaccine still .scarce, county health departments and local hospitals are faced with difficult choices on how to prioritize vaccines after these top-level groups. “These are incredibly difficult decisions.” Jeffres Byrnes, a Grund Valley Slate University philosophy professor and medical ethicist, said. ’•“This is a real high wire act. This is lhe kind of thing that 10.20 years ago would have been drafted as a hypothetical and perhaps overly dramatic textbixik problem. Now we are facing this in real time.” ; -Slate guidelines in Michigan suggest that next in priority should be others in the health -care field who also face risks, including den­ tists, pharmacists and outpatient, urgent care £and home heaillicare workers. : ;After that come difficult choices on other 1 ^sseniial workers. This includes teachers and 'other staffers at scltools and day-care centers, . workers m fix*! supply, utilities, transporta­ tion, al homeless shelters, jails and funeral •Eomes. ’ . •. For lhe past several weeks. Byrnes has •been advising officials al lhe Kent County 'Health Department as it lays out plans for tvsiccine distribution to essential workers in •;the coming weeks and months. ». 'Like 44 other local health departments ‘-across lhe stale, Kent County will have lo Oration its vaccine supply until more vaccines become available. ‘’Should a city bus driver get a shot before a grocery store worker? Do public school teach­ ers get priority over staff at a homeless shel­ ter? • -We have been planning for this for months.” said Mary Wisinski, immunization program supervisor for the Kent County Health Department. i -You make multiple plans and try to antic­ ipate every contingency and that’s kind of where we are at right now.” •Those contingencies include uncertainty over the supply- Michigan is on track to get an estimat­ being left totally vulnerable to COVID-19.” Depending on fjow ed 84,000 doses of the Pfizer vaccine this vaccine supply week, approved Dec. 11 for emergency use by chain unfolds - S(j|| an unknown variable al lhe U.S. Food and Drug Administration. But this lime - widespread distribution to the gen­ health officials learned Wednesday lhe state eral public may not materialize until late will get just 60.000 doses next week. That’s spring or summer. Slate health officials have set a goal of vac­ enough for 30.000 health workers (the vac­ cine requires two doses) in a state with more cinating 70 percent Michigan adults, about 15.4 million adults,by the end of 2021. than 600,000 in the industry’. As the suppjy^f vaccines ramps up, Confusing matters, Pfizer officials said in a statement last Thursday it has “million more jMichigan'spepatnaSkof Health and Human doses sitting in our warehouse” but had not •Services said its plar.nedjjhase.s will begin to received federal instruction where to send [overlap. them. , “It is important lo note Vial vaccination in The FDA on Friday approved a second one phase may not be.comptete before vacci­ vaccine by drug maker Moderna, which is nation in ayther phase begins. There may be expected to ship nearly 6 million U.S. doses vaccinatfaf of individuals in different phases next week. that occup simultaneously,’’ it said in a recent Tile Moderna vaccine will be distributed update or its plans. ~ in Barry’ County, health officials said, since it In the Upper Peninsula, Marquette County does not need to be stored at negative 70 Health Department, health officer Jerry degrees Fahrenheit like lhe Pfizer vaccine and Messana has been in virtual meetings for vac­ it is easier for smaller health care providers to cine distribution since July. distribute. He consulted with township and school Il’s not clear how long it will take Michigan officials, administrators at Marquette Branch to provide vaccines to health workers and the Prison and Marquette County Jail and state’s more than 100,000 residents of nursing Northern Michigan University, as the depart­ homes and other long-term facilities. ment maps strategy for vaccinating essential Even within hospitals, distribution of the workers in what the slate calls Phase IB. COVID vaccine remains a work in progress, Critical to that plan: Just how many essen­ with some hospital systems surveying staff on tial workers arc in the county? who wants to gel the first vaccines, and who Thus far, Messana’s partial list includes an wants to wait. At Beaumont Health, a spokes­ estimated 1200 school workers with direct person for the Detroit metro hospital system contact with children, al least 200 police and said the first to get vaccines “were randomly dispatch workers and about 400 firefighters. selected out of a larger pool of eligible He’s still gathering the number of grocery employees and physicians.” workers. At some point early in 2021. Michigan’s “We’re trying to pul our fingers on that,” he CO VID vaccines will be expanded to K-12 said. “You have stores like Mcijer, but then school staff, workers who keep critical infra­ you have any number of party stores and other structure open and functioning, staff at home­ grocery stores.” less shelters, jails and day centers as well as But Messana said it’s a near certainty that non-hospital labs and mortuary services, initial vaccine shipments will f«dl short of that according to the slate plan. People wiih total, which may force local health officials to underlying health conditions and those 65 and make judgment calls on how to roll out vacci­ older are next in line, before the vaccine is nations. made available lo anyone 16 and older. “I think some people will feel they should Michigan Department of Health and Human be (vaccinated! before somebody else. It s Services guidelines do not call for early vac­ going to raise some questions in the commu­ cination for an estimated 35.000 state prison­ nity.” ers, even though more than 100 inmates have Messana cited a hypothetiw1 choice, one died of the virus and prisons have logged that could be shaped by the area s average nearly 20j000 inmate cases of COVID-19, annual snowfall of 12 feet. , ~ , Groups including lhe American Medical “If we have 1200 teachers and staff and Association have said prisoners should be only 150 vaccines it might make sense to get given higher priority, with one AMA board the public works and snowplow drivers done member arguing, “Being incarcerated or first.” detained should not be synonymous with Bul in the lone nW. s1aid-.*hosc ‘lesignaied as essentW ttOrkerS W‘ ,F! ‘heir chance at v„ * nation - « P"*ess ,hal Keep your friends and relatives informed We will dose al 4 p.m. New Year's Eve We will be closed New Year's Day T* ‘Pray Tor Our Nation 5? and up to date with all the local news from Barry Countu Send them... The Hastings QUESTIONS: ask US... banner >ISE SW st. Ha-.:ngs • 945-9673 CUN ajp Hulst geanersPIck^SMIon------- To subscribe, call 269-945-9554 ' ma^a monththe 'SitidpXX,1dtf^‘^w*wi" i• uill working out the lopkt * °^c*a S a nOle to vaccinate. •WehCSO.freachi"S^ntofhowwe make those calk - '"^^^^-nel^’.^irttnentslike Barrv-P- »M>mc h*™1 dth Department, Maron .i? ^'slrict 1 /^zers needed to safely m C *ftS _il)C at the recomnwnu .uelu^^S^for s,ora?e of Vacci"' ,bCy ":n’,“n "* charge of its distribution. As medical director for four U.P. health departments covering 10 counties, Bob Lorinser said he has been immersed in COVID-19 vaccine planning with area offi­ cials since assuming his post seven weeks ago. Lorinser said he doesn’t expect much con­ flict as agencies carry’ out the next wave of vaccinations. “When we have these discussions, there is an understanding there may be limitations with the (supply of the] vaccine. But 1 don’t see a fight. I’m not hearing people say fire­ fighters arc more important than police or people in food or water or power.’ "I think people just want to know, ‘When is my turn?’” In the last phase before vaccines are released to the general public - what the state calls Phase 1C - people ages 16 to 64 with underlying health conditions that pul them at high risk for COVID-19 along people 65 and older can be vaccinated. Byrnes, the ethicist, said fairly distributing vaccines to those with underlying conditions could be tricky. Health officials must be vigi­ lant to ensure low-income people. Black resi­ dents and other more medically vulnerable groups have similar access to lhe vaccine. “It’s just so intuitive to say that we want to give this vaccine to the people who need it most. But we could be identifying lhe people who are already well acquainted with the health care system and have good access lo health care.” he said. Byrnes said that could leave out many who may not have seen a doctor in years. “We know the virus has had a dispropor­ tionate impact on lower-income minority communities.” he said. To date, the death rate from COVID-19 for Blacks in Michigan is more than twice that of whites. A statewide survey of registered voters by the Detroit Regional Chamber found that just a third of Black voters said they will take a COV1D-I9 vaccine, compared lo 58 percent of white voters .That suspicion appears to be driven by deep-seeded doubts among African Americans about government health treat- See VACCINE, page 11 First vaccinations start Wednesday in Barry County Thylor Owens Staff Writer COVID-19 vaccinations arc set to begin in Barry County Wednesday, after the BarryEaton District Health Department received its first shipment of the Moderna vaccine. Health Officer Colette Scrimger said the department received 1.000 doses on Monday, to be split evenly between the two counties. The first group of people to be vaccinated will be emergency medical service personnel, healthcare workers who are not scheduled lo be vaccinated by a hospital and BEDHD healthcare staff. The vaccine will be administered at health department clinics in Barry and Eaton coun­ ties Wednesday and Saturday. Thomapple Manor officials were notified laic Monday afternoon that it would receive its first C0VID-I9 vaccinations New Year’s Eve. The senior living facility’s administrator, Don Haney, said Walgreens will arrive Dec. 31 to vaccinate residents. Haney said he does not know how many doses will be available in lhe first round, bul he hopes all residents and staff who want the vaccine will gel lheir first dose in the first few weeks after the new year. Surveys were planned to go out to staff Tuesday to determine how many people want to be vaccinated, he said. The Moderna vaccine was approved by the Food and Drug Administration last Friday, and since it does not need to be stored at neg­ ative 70 degrees Fahrenheit like the Pfizer vaccine, it is easier for smaller health care providers to distribute. As of Monday, staff ul other senior living facilities, and Spectrum Health Pennock, said they have not received any updates on when they will receive the Moderna or Pfizer vac­ cines. During a press conference last week, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer demanded to know why doses of the vaccine were sitting in a ware­ house in Portage, while Michigan health care providers had received considerably less vac­ cine than it had been promised. In a press conference over lhe weekend. Army General Gustave Perna, lhe head of Operation Warp Speed, lhe federal govern­ ment’s vaccine initiative, said he took person­ al responsibility for a miscommunication on the number of doses. “At the end of the day. tlie number of doses available to us lo allocate ended up being lower,” Perna said. “As we gave forecasts to lhe jurisdictions, and governors and slates worked their priorities against those forecasts, when we had to decide what was eventually going to be shipped out, 1 had to lower the allocations to meet the releasable doses that were presented to me.” Barry County's COVID-19 cases have con­ tinued to drop, with 144 active cases Monday, down from !G0 last week. The health depart­ ment reported 186 probable cases, just up from 178 reported last week. The county reported an additional four deaths, since last week, for a total of 29 since March. Eaton County reported 319 active cases, with 252 probable and a total of 82 deaths. Bany County’s positivity rate has been fluctuating by the day. bul is in lhe 12-percent range, down from a high of 21 percent late last month. According to Bridge Magazine, Michigan will receive another 60.450 doses of 'the BioNTech'Plizer vaccine and 60,450 of Moderna vaccines through lire end of the year. On Monday, 71 more Michigan residents died from the virus, bringing the statewide number ol deaths due to COVID-19 to i 1,461. The state reported that 13321 Michican residents had been given a first dose of a vac­ cine against COVID-19, up ffotn about 2 700 Friday. About 140,000 doses had been deliv­ ered, state officials said. �The Hastings Banner - Thursday. December 24. 2020 Pag. 1, Registration open for LHS virtual 5K run/walk fundrai5er Lnkew.nxl Public ” l,l”-l'nV* 'T li'al Viking Fun Rm> " ' k •hn- '■ 2021 in an effort to >’•’■ nc" >ear Oil on the right f<*‘( . . v. . ~ ,1% “Our idea lor thi> vmu..l Vikmg Fun/Run Walk, was for the funik for each grade level al school for when we are able to resume extra actnitres again like prom, float buildme. 1,111 decorating, class celebrations. b™ , 1for 0,lr se'iiors. senior -Tea" and paintball, event organizer Anita Dulls said. ”l sunlly these funds arc raised through fundraisers as Powder Puff, iKiskeiball concessions, and sales of hot choc­ olate during school to name a few.” ‘Tart of our logo, ‘Stay Strong, Stay Motivated*, was the idea of Cody Perkins our freshman class president.” Duits added. That message made it onto the event's long-slec'C,Navy blue shirt that will go to all participants us a part ol their registration fee. At an additional cost, there ate also stock­ ing caps ($10) and socks <S5) available. The deadline to register for the 5K event is Dec. 28. at 11:59 p.m. Participants may then complete their 5K at any time, at any pace, on any course of their choosing between Jan. I and Jan. 10. The cost to register is $35. Race participants will get a Navy blue, long-sleeve shirt with the event’s “Stay Strong. Stay Motivated” message on the front. The first $20(X) raised from the event will be split among savings for the Lakewood High School class of 2021. 2022, 2023 and 2024. Additional funds raised will be split between the Alpha Family Center of Lake Odessa and Manna’s Market. Race registration can be done online at runsignup.com/Race/MI/LakeOdessa/ Quiet end to fall a test for what winter may bring Zi A: ... •. . Lakewood High School athletic director Mike Quinn and Bobbie Madejzcyk share their enthusiasm for the Jan. 1-10 vll,u® Reaistrat '^3 k 5t< which is being used as a fundraiser for the high school classes, gtstration can be done online through Dec. 28. VikingFunRunWalk. Links directly to the Public Schools Facebook feed, sign-up page can be found on the Lakewood Acker to continue cross country journey at Grace College Brett Bremer Sports Editor Katie Acker had a choice to make before the start of her freshman year. Her parents wanted her lo gel involved in high school activities. For Acker, the choice came dow n to running cross country or join­ ing lhe high school golf program. “I cannot golf," Acker said. She had never run more than a mile at any time in her life up to that first varsity cross country' practice at Lakewood High School when she was sent out on a 4-inile run. “1 was literally like, I am never doing this sport again,” she thought to herself at that point. “Here 1 am, still doing it and I actually really like it now.” She came to the realization that she loves the sport at the end of her sophomore season. Acker, a senior, made another choice this month signing her National Letter of Intent to join the Grace College Women’s Cross Country program in Winona Lake. Ind. She also plans to be a part of the indoor and out­ door track and field programs as well, despite never having run a season with the Lakewood varsity track and field program yet. She went from never having run a mile before her freshman year at luikewood High School lo earning all-conference honors in lhe Greater Lansing Activities Conference, an all-regional award and placing 71st at lhe Division 2 Lower Peninsula Cross Country’ Championship at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn as a senior in November. Acker is the vice president of the National Honor Society at Lakewood High School and the secretary for lhe Class of 2021. She is active at the Vermontville Bible Church, par­ ticipating in the Awana program and youth group. Working with the Awana club helped her realize she likes working with y oung kids, and in part helped steer her decision lo head to Grace to start a course of study towards becoming a pediatric nurse. Acker credits God with pointing her to Grace College, after her initial thoughts were a big in slate school like the University of I Michigan or Michigan Slate University. She was accepted at Grace College and later the coaches got in touch with her in September about the possibility of running for the pro­ gram. after seeing Ackers binesonline. She went for a visit to the campus in October. "They have two really fast girls. I hey run high IKs 1 am definitely excited about that. My times are like 19:50. so I am going to have someone to actually push me. hmk can i • r omi its I have someone keep getting faster as long : r • • < P"hn not like I was pushing myself in praeIt is not HKL I is u |iew ]eve| of lice I mean, 1 (hcn. js someone who pushing yourself vv Jh n is ahead of you. Viking on lhe Acker has been the • o| ,lie p;ist three cross country course tor ' da*. seasons. She was neck Emily Apsey as a )ft (juring Softball was Acker s P jHM)| sbc had her first two years ol » L fid(J (eam al plans to run with the in* * • fx,fo:e that ¥ * _ -«• • L,\/J If] Lakewood High 4-School it* - season was canceled. Her younger brodicr I at Lakewood High •wo her senior year. Quara °f time to w ork on things 0 . .in eighth grader - • ’. pUUi |lcr Uve her a lot c|osing oul her The most vivid memories I have of attend­ ing high school sporting events before I was of high school age were basketball games. The glossy, blonde bleachers at Thomapplc Kellogg High School seem to rise up forever when you’re five-foot nothin’. Some of the best seats in the house were in the top comer of the gymnasium, kitty comer from where the jazz bland blared out the theme songs from “The Muppet Show" and the “The Flintstones". Fresh popped pop and super rope licorice were the treats of choice. From that crow’s nest view, wins and losses affected me physically, at least for the half hour or so where they remained on my mind. The guys wearing the orange and white were as big as any celebrities wearing Maize and Blue or Green and While al the next level up. There was the view- of the court, with the block "M" in the middle of the floor. There were times when the game on the court was less important though. The attention turned over lhe back side of the bleachers where one lonely hoop awaited an elementary school pick-up game with a spent popcorn bag wad­ ded up into a ball or occasionally with a con­ traband basketball. A big chunk of Ute community would attend, packed in tightly enough that lhe win­ ter air felt almost refreshing when it was time to head out of lhe building. It is doubtful that is what a basketball sea­ son will look and feel like this winter. But we have a shot at something. The new Michigan Health and Human Services Department idea lo let lhe remaining fall athletes be a part of pilot program for schools all across the state is something of a Christmas gift. If all goes well, expect gyms to be full of basketball players, and probably cheerleaders and wrestlers for a couple months this winter. Lakewood High School athletic director Mike Quinn said Monday afternoon that he was awaiting a Tuesday (Dec. 22) Zoom meeting lo learn more about the program. He said hc expects his volleyball players will have to test three times a week for as Jong as their season continues. Antigen tests are the nasal swabs, which arc capable of returning results in approximately 15 minutes. My guess is that 400 out of 400 volleyball players would agree to having their brain brushed with a Q-tip if it meant they could play another match or three. This isn’t a pilot program to benefit just student-athletes. It is to help learn the best ways to get all students back in the classroom safely and consistently following the holiday break. The expectation at the moment that the entire cost of this testing in this pilot program will be covered by the MDHHS. “Really, where we were at during October and November and you looked at the cost and you looked at the mechanics of testing, and at that time, nobody was making rapid testing available - certainly at a price point that could be handled," MHSAA Executive Director Mark Uyl said during last Friday’s press con­ ference on the season restart. "The game-changer was with today’s plan from health and human service about lhe rapid test­ ing that they would be providing. The game-changcr in this whole testing did come from the leadership at health and human ser­ vices, and wc are grateful for that opportunity and suggestion by them." We will see how everything goes for the volleyball players, swimmers and football players with contests ahead, and what it all means for winter sports. Hopefully, at some point this leads to masked spectators once again being allowed. Maybe even a socially distant jazz band. I doubt I’ll be munching on a super rope at a basketball game any time soon. But this is all a much welcomed step in the right direc­ tion. [Protesters trespassed on Delton srt©©[[ property, Corlett says Katie Acker signs her National Letter of Intent to join the Grace College Women’s Cross Country and Track and Field programs after high school graduation, joined by her parents Jacey Acker, Dan Acker and her brother Troy Acker (standing). junior cross country season by setting her sights on earning a state finals spot in her senior year. "My brother likes to work out and sluff. We would go and lift weights, and I would run. I think it helped, the strength training, it helped my legs and arms get stronger so that I could run faster. Then, we started right early in June for cross country training five days a week 1 hat was really good too." Troy, running cross country on the middle school for the first time because soccer wasn’t available for his age group, won all five of his cross country races for the Lakewood Middle School program including the GLAC Championship in Stockbridge Oct. 20 where he set a new personal record with his twomile time of 11:34.4. "I was like wow, great job Troy. He was excited, Katie said. Katie set her personal record 5K time at the Division 2 Regional race hosted by DeWitt on Oct. 31.2020, finishing the race in 19 minutes 59.0 seconds. She placed eighth, earning a spot in the state finals for the first time. “I loved that race. The weather was perfect. The course was perfect, it was a little hilly, but it was a good course it was great competi­ tion and I felt so great on that course. I love that course. There was so much suspense with, ‘did she make 20? Did she make 20?’ I thought it was 20:01,” *hc said of the regional race. She had never finished race in less than 20 minutes before. . . From there. Katie chance to walk the course at the state finals with her father before the race at MIS. and took a carefree attitude into that race- She earned a time of 20:23.4. MCCINE, continued from previous page ment. lied in part to the decades-long Tuskeaee medical experiment that used unwitting Alabama sharecroppers as human guinea niec m a study of untreated syphilis. P £S The state is already engaged in outreach muiauves to nunonly communities, aimed a. driving up awareness of the safety and L. fits of COVID-19 vaccines. U “We should make sure we get this to every corner of our community, and of course th? corners of our community have suffered more from the virus itself," Byrnes said Determining if someone truly has an under lying condition is not a decision Kent Counre wants to arbitrate. Wisinski, Kent’s imS zation ^upervrsor, expects vaccinations L those with health conditions to proceed on ih honor system. ",ne "1 think we will take people’s words. I can’t imagine that wc will he asking them for Av. unientation for that when they come in ’’ On Tuesdi.y. Eric Kane. „ Beaumont Hospital Ironton, downriver m Detroit, received the Pfizer vaccme. That s no surprise, given his ro,a,lon"I’m working the C0VID '"tenstve care unit this month," he sa|dm While he’s glad to be among the first to get 8 vaccine Kane said he also understands the n<^^tKaShriorwho^*bevac- "••Nol^owwho^unng-hatout.butl trust them. 1 underst#*1 how the process Works ’’ Kane said he has (**5^ wh ’ “T "ttlependentlv in Ba“ C 7 whom hc >4 see " in peraon ">an « month out Of caution for the* “fety. He realizes ’bey probably won’t gel« chanve at a vaccme °f.!jyil’y wceks . nu)t because of the vac’tinc'limhirt^TdvW wil‘ h*Ve waiL '^'y are iusr ? ’“’l-m tum." ngh' "ow “"J Protesters set up a ’’Recall Whitmer” booth on the front lawn of Delton Kellogg Elementary last Saturday. (Photo provided) Luke Fronchcck Steiff Writer Using any public-school property requires permission from district administration, Delton Kellogg Superintendent Kyle Corlett said Monday. Last Saturday, when "Recall Whitmer" protesters set up a booth on the front lawn of Delton Kellogg Elementary’ for lhe sccond time this year, those protesters did not have permission to do so. Corlett said. "However, you feel about the governor and her pandemic orders, it is not right to use the school’s property without permission, Corlett said. "Breaking the law when protesting that lhe governor is breaking the law is not an effective way to demonstrate a point.” "Recall efforts are a form of a political campaign, and a public body cannot use or authorize the use of ... pro|Krty ... or other public resources” for campaign purposes. Hope Township resident and attorney tor the City of Battle Creek Jill Steele said Monday. ’That portion of the law is from lhe Michigan Campaign Finance Act (MCFA), Public Act 388 of 1976, she said. "'Hiis is not the wild, wild West where a group of individuals gels to thumb their no*es al the law because they don’t like it,” Steele said. “That can lead to a very slippery slojx: where individuals choose what laws they like and will abide by - rather than respecting the laws enacted by those elected to do so. ’ In a 1987 opinion, former Michigan Attorney General Frank Kelley said that a school district or community college district may not provide public funds, public proper­ ty, or the services of public personnel to inde­ pendent political ballot or candidate commit­ tees. "You ha\e lo ask permission to be on school property in a political manner,’ Barry Township Police Chief Mark Doster said Monday. . , . At this point. Corlett said he is relying on law enforcement to show up and ask the irespassers to leave if they try to up "heir tent on school property again. <t If residents notice “Recall 'Vhtttner pro­ testers setting up a tent on school property, Corlett advised them to contact police directly instead ot calling him. “I am telying on law enforcement for assis­ tance." Corlett said. "Again. 1 am not person­ ally gainst anyone’s right to pro est - but the •Li is neuual m such jx-hucal matters. Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings Banner ads �n 24 20?0 Page 12 —Tnureday. December z . zv The Hastings Banner ■■■ ■ in 2021 without spectators Fall sports will finish ..nd will continue to since early Novernbtf-'*dl|fing after the monitor the data. to* >()5, important. things holidays. One of 1. is mn|tt a plan Michiganders can do ngM ■ vawil)e „ MK>n ns Brett Bremer Sports Editor There may be »« ’’^ool Athletic The MW Frida, Assoc..1.™ (hjUnK its remaining tall afternoonth«>c«'l sti|| champi. tournament, .n^^ .fl u)lkvball. girk< on.hips to be |hc Lower peninsula, 1-te si I.’ voile) ba" ummamenl will begin • g,h OirartrtfinaH on Tuesday. Jan. 5. Sinis andF* v Arena in Battle Creek. LUKcwooa °! set' o Se on Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard in . oLrterflnal >naieh which was onginally ■SPlaved ’• Tecumseh High School. * ’Those faU teams and individuals will be able to resume practice Monday, Dec. 21. All mtvioos safety protocols remain in place, and no s^lAtort w ill be allowed at lhe fall tour- MHSAA’s volleyball, football, girls’ swimming and diving teams and individuals still participating in tournament play will be allowed to do so as part of an MDHHS (Michigan Department of Health and Human Services) pilot rapid testing program designed to gain insight and collect data on lhe spread of COVID-19 as the MDHHS plans to pro­ vide expanded rapid testing availability to schools in January, ft is anticipated that spe­ cifics and details of the Fall tournament pilot testing program will be coming from the MDHHS. The MDHHS is funding the pro­ gram. “Part of the testing program that is required is that there will be a rapid test that will gel to schools here shortly. \Ve are still working through some of the details on how the exact process will work, but essentially there will be some testing in place.” MHSAA executive director Mark Uy 1 said. “A lot of lhe information and data that we’re going to be able to collect through this pilot program over the next roughly four weeks, is really going to be able to help schools open in January and hopefully stay­ open.” The Lakewood varsity volleyball team opened its season Sept. 10 in front of a sparse crowd in the Lowell High School gymnasium. The Vikings were looking forward to beginning practice again Monday with the help of a Michigan Department of Health and Human Services pilot COVID-19 testing program which will allow for the MHSAA’s fall tournaments to conclude in the new year. (File photo) Uy I said the MHSAA was told by lhe MDHHS that those rapid tests arc becoming available to schools as vaccinations limit the need for them in places like nursing homes. “This will be a chance to do two things,” said MDHHS Director Robert Gordon at a Friday press conference. "It will let students compete a season that of course is very important to them and it will let schools and the state of Michigan work together to learn how* we can use antigen tests to encourage safe reopening in January." All indoor winter sports - which arc not part of the pilot rapid testing program remain on pause from lhe MDHHS until Jan. 16. although girls and boys alpine skiing sea­ son - competed outdoors and following safety protocols including all activity must be out­ doors - will be allowed to begin practice Monday, Dec. 21 .The MHSAA Representative Council will meet again Tuesday. Dec. 22, to discuss details for the rest of winter sports. ‘‘These past few weeks. Michiganders across the state stepped up and did their part to slow the spread of CO VID-19. and because of our collective hard work, we are now able to begin the steps to carefully lift some of the protocols we have in place,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said in a statement Friday after lhe announcement that MDHHS is beginning what it calls a cautious re-opening of high schools and indoor entertainment. ‘‘I am encouraged by lhe progress we have made to gel the safe and ell always: n>ask u!' ifs available to you. And ,jng ,m(I .tV(>1(j practice safe social J (,oV|p. j? can easiindoor gatherings when „ Wc will |y spread from person I eradicate this vims togcH> finJ,s w „|, The girls’ swimming < pcninsula Finals return with its three . j of Jan. 15-16 competed during the wcj., locations, with one division at cac | wjth Diving would be completed J swimming the following < jn agajn The football playof. al finals for Saturday. Jan. 2. with R g g player U-player teams and Scmifinil. -n ' i . ij 11 -nlayer \semillnals both divisions and all 11-pin? . () will be played the following Satur?‘,> ’i J |he The football season will conclude Il-Player Finals in all divisions the wc of Jan. 15-16. All Semifinals tn both 1 • 8-playcr will be played at home sites. • 1 e-s championship games will be finalize s‘n and posted to the MHSAA website. In all, about 4JXX) student-athletes are looking forward to finishing off their fail sea­ sons in the state. “Certainly, wc are continuing to advocate for our winter athletesUyl said. “As you have heard us say now for weeks, not only were we able lo play this fall, but we were able to play safely. We were also hoping that winter could get restarted with practices as soon as possible with competitions to follow. Of course, as it relates lo winter sports, we’re waiting for the new order to expire on Jan. 15.” “Our plan for winter sports continues to be completing all of our w inter tournaments by the end of March,” hc added All Spring 2021 sports are expected to begin on time and play complete seasons con­ cluding with lheir traditional MHSA/X Tournament dates in May and June. Delton school board discusses ISD options Luke Fronchvck Staff Writer •‘The Delton Kellogg Schools Board of Education is looking at what could be done to expand intermediate school district services. Currently, the two kindergarten through 12th-grade school districts of Delton Kellogg and Hastings Area Schools comprise lhe Bany Intermediate School District. But, on Monday night. Superintendent Kyle Corlett presented lhe Delton Kellogg board with options for a change, including the possibility of an enhancement millaee for lhe BISD. The limited service that BISD offers Delton Kellogg is the reason a change needs to be considered, Corlett said. Special education is the only service they receive, he said, adding that he would like to see more career and technical education offer­ ings and emotional and cognitive impairment support. “I would be in favor of joining another ISD just to have the ability to send our kids to a career center,” Corlett said. “It’s an amazing opportunity.” One of the key differences between Barry ISD, and other area intermediate school dis­ tricts is operation millage and reimbursement for special education. Corlett said Tuesday. BISD is the only ISD in the state with just two member districts. BISD Superintendent Richard Franklin said Tuesday. In August, the Michigan Department of Education removed the Great Start Readiness and Great Start Collaborative programs from BISD due to past problems with fiscal man­ agement. The Community Action Agency and Calhoun Intermediate School District took over administration of those programs. In the Barry ISD district, residents arc taxed 2.1757 mills for special education plus another 0.1177 for operations. Calhoun Intermediate School District has a 45 mill special education lax, 1.4538 mill vocational tax and a 0.2519 operational tax. Allegan Area Education Sen ice Agency has a 3.0052 mill special education tax, a 1.7538 mill vocation­ al lax and a 0.1138 mill operational tax. “We’re alway s looking to find what is best for our students,’’ Hastings Board of Education President Luke Haywood said Tuesday. “BISD gets half the funding that other ISDs receive, so it’s very challenging for them to provide programming when they don’t have lhe funds.” BISD reimburses 13 percent of special edu­ cation costs to districts. Corlett said. In com­ parison, Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency reimburses 100 percent of costs, and Allegan AES?\ reimburses about 85 percent. Corlett said he has talked to the Allegan AESA superintendent about the process for a potential move for Delton Kellogg from BISD to AES A. “I think the [career and technical educa­ tion! offering is well worth the increase in the tax base," Delton Kellogg board member Jim McManus said. “A $50 to gel your kids into a career center is well worth the increase.” Board members did not make any decisions and moved on to other business. Corlett said Tuesday that he and other school officials are in an information-gather­ ing period. “I was try ing to get it there publicly that this is something that should be evaluated,” hc said. “We have one student right now that deals with emotional impairments.” Corlett added. “If we didn’t live in this county, they would be able to go to a center-based program. Bul Are you looking for a career that changes lives? Train now to become an emergency medical technician (EMT)! fo toss than a year, you can earn a certificate and a State of Michigan fm I license through the Baste EMT Academy at Kellogg Community College. How do I get started? Visit westmiworks.org/emt/ & A West Michigan Works! staff person will assist you with • • • • • Kellogg Community College application FAFSA application Assess eligibility and apply for other funding opportunities Career coaching and training prep job search and employment assistance Deadline to enroll is Wednesday, Jan 6, 2021. DID YOU KNOW; • EMT is one of the top 100 fastest growing, high-demand jobs in West Michigan? • Vou may qualify for training scholarships or grant funding to complete EMT training at little to no cost to you? EMTs in our region earn a median wage of $16.76 per hour? . nxirhiaan Works! is a division ofACSET an equal °PPor,"nl'y ^Ployer/program ond o because wc do live here and BISD doesn’t have that kind of programming, we’re forced to do the best we can for the student in our building. It just isn’t enough for our kids.” Corlett added that the school board could consider an enhancement millage w ith BISD. The millage would potentially bring in more funds lo BISD so it could offer more pro­ grams and services, he said. Before any change could occur, Delton Kellogg school board members would have to approve a plan for how thev would leave BISD. That plan has not been developed or discussed. “This is in no way the fault of BISD,” Delton Kellogg Board President Kelli Martin said Tuesday. “They’re limited in lhe services they can offer us. “Right now, we’re just gathering informa­ tion. We’re trying to be completely transpar­ ent as we look al our options.” Franklin said Tuesday that lhe BISD is actively working lo facilitate a conversation between its member districts as they explore lhe best options for students learning in Delton and Hastings. In other business, the board: - Discussed lhe potential for a high school band trip to Hawaii for the Pearl Harbor Memorial in 2021. Board members expressed fundraising con­ cerns. Band Director Sara Knight said thev could potentially raise money and, should the trip not happen, band me inliers can save the money for a later, veteran-based event. Corlett and other board members said the band could |X>(entially use the money for new instruments if the trip doesn’t happen, and they make those who donate aware of the contingency plans for the funds. The trip would need al least 50 people, roughly 30 students, for the trip to happen. Band members would have to collectively raise about $ 100,000 for the trip. Board members will vole on ihe field trip in January. - Approved the hiring of superintendent secretary Kelsey Mader and middle school secretary Deborah Hotchkiss - Granted staff the ability for remote work. - Received an update from Corlett. who said he is confident elementary, middle, and high schools can resume in-per>on learning. - Approved NEOl A policies relating to cash management ol grants, awl principals and lime and effort reporting. ^erican iob Center network. Auxiliary aids and services are Call 269-945-9554 for Hastings 1 classified ads � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/19/547/HastingsBanner_2020-12-31.pdf 4a1247b4338cde9577856060eea555f9 PDF Text Text Hastings councilman battling COVID-19 Sei’ Story on Page 2 [ Report*n9 < on remote ®?eeMngs Sports • 1856 Devoted to the Interests of Barry County Since Mttt He.^;ngAR'RTLOT”C0« CC05 ANNER 42! N Taffee Dr “ Hastngs Ml 49053-1134 6/30/2021 9 47 00 AM PRICES'-.??. VOLUME 167. No. 52 THE YEAR IN REVIEW: Top local news in 2020 How a nine-month pandemic commandeered the year Taylor Owens Staff Writer The year 2020 ended up being defined by Today’s Hastings Banner is dedicated to a look back at the top local news stories of 2020. Because of its impact on so many aspects of life in the local community, lhe COVID19 pandemic was at lhe top of thal list. Yet there was much more to the year 2020 than a novel coronavirus - as the news, in retro­ spect, shows. Looking back may even may offer some glimpse of what lies ahead in 2021 since many of these top news stories are likely to continue developing in lhe new year. Here’s what the Banner staff chose in their vote on the Top 10 local new s stories of the year; 1. COVID-19 pandemic is impacting the community in many ways: health officials look with hope to a vaccine, which arrived last week and is being administered in Barry County as December comes to a close. 2. Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf is rebuked by state officials after his public comments appear to defend the actions of two men later charged as part of an alleged plot to attack the state Capitol and take hesInges, including Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. 3. Hastings’ historic Royal Coach build­ ing is destroyed Oct. 7 by a massive fire, which investigators deem to be an arson, leading to charges against a 21-year-old Hastings man. 4. A Barry County jury convicts Jon Burnell. 64, of Orangeville Township, of lhe murders of his 73-ycar-old neighbor Gary Peake and 21-year-old Bryce DeGood, who was walking the line for a tree service on June 21.2019. when Burnett went on a ram­ page near his residence at Lewis and Lindsey roads. “His eyes were soulless,’’ a witness describes during court proceedings in August. Burnett also is convicted of 33 other violent crimes he committed that afternoon. 5. Voters reject a $25 million bond request for the Barry County jail so it’s back to the drawing board for commissioners when a new board is sealed in January 2021. The jail and sheriff's office is one of the top projects in the county’s master plan. 6. The state-of-the-art $12 million Baum Family Surgical Center that opens Nov, 16 at Spectrum Health Pennock Hospital is well-received; some even compare it to rid­ ing in a “well-run Ferrari,’’ President Angela Diimar says. Public tours to mark the open­ ing cannot take place because of lhe pan­ demic, but a video tour allows the public to see the center. 7. A throat-slitting case alleging intent to murder, the first major trial in the county durin*' the CO VID-19 pandemic, concludes with a guilty verdict - but not on the intent lo murder charge. David Krebs II. 30. of Vermontville. is serving eight to 15 years in prison for assault with intent to commit great bodily harm in the slabbing of Anthony Collins. 28. of Middleville, on Sept. 5. 2019. 8. Superintendent Dan Remenap announces Nov. 23 that he Hastings for the top P°sl • .e(J(len( Kellogg schools. Assistant Supenmendem of Student Achievement • june picked for interim supennten e 3Q. when the school board will deetde on steps. 1f amily Karn, and Home Hastings’ West State Mrce ^ood tenant is in the wings J*announced. |1;(. vel w - 1 to. Broadband services m1 the. c heightened priority as fe t proved to allow for expans „ j U)ing fiberoptic cable in H) £ uan after fecJera{ .,rants and k• in 2021. Dr. J. Daniel Woodall and Health Officer Colette Scrimger, both of the Barry-Eaton District Health Department, discuss the threat of COVID-19 with the Barry County Board of Commissioners in March. (File photo) C<The novel coronavirus touched nearly all aspects of life:11 cl, ,us,l»sses. taxed the healthcare system, foree- schools to turn to remote learning, can'"r,.„'\'':l‘,s’Pul employ­ ees out of work and forecd peop|e 10 s,ay jn the virus, although health officials point out that there arc likely many more cases that are not known or counted. In some of these cases, some people didn’t know they had it; others had only mild symp­ toms. And others had to be hospitalized and placed on ventilators. On Monday. Barry Count reported 33 deaths due io COVID-19 Among them were Middleville Village President Charles Pullen, who died at Spectrum Health Pennock Hospital in November, at the age of 71, and county Commissioner Dan Parker,73. of Middleville, died on Dec. 11 who died in Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids. In March. Dr. J. Daniel Woodall, medical director for Barry-Eaton District Health Department, warned about the potential dan­ gers of the virus. Even if 1.9 percent of Americans over lhe age of 60 are at risk of dying from COVJD19, he said, those at risk of dying from this disease could be in lhe millions. “That’s why thb^cfliom is so high," he said, noting that lhe itatMoll from the com- See PANDEMIC, page 2 More than 300 people get first vaccine doses in Barry County Thylor Owens Staff Writer More than 300 people have been vacci­ nated for COVID-19 in Barry County - and counting. ; The Barry-Eaton District Health Department had vaccinated 180 healthcare workers, while Spectrum Health Pennock had vaccinated 140 staff and independent physicians as of Monday. “I am getting the vaccine to protect my family, my patients and myself,” Amy Poholski. a doctor of emergency medicine at Spectrum Health Pennock, said when she attended the clinic. “All of us, as front-line healthcare workers, need to stay healthy to continue taking care of our patients. I want to set an example by getting the vaccine. “I hope that my willingness to get the vaccine will encourage others to do the same.” “The clinic went well,” Spectrum Pennock Chief Operating Officer Bernard Jore said. “Many of our employed and local independent physicians as well as staff were able to get their first injection between Wednesday, lhe 23r“, and Saturday, lhe 26th.” Jore said they plan to have several more clinics in the coming weeks. Staff and residents of long-term care facilities in Barry County will be vaccinated in the coming weeks. The federal govern­ ment has contracted with pharmacies CVS and Walgreens to administer the vaccines at Nurse Laurie Sayer administers the COVID-19 vaccine to radiologist Dennis Bruce at Spectrum Health Pennock Hospital. (Photo provided) those facilities. Thomapple Manor will have its first clin­ ic Dec. 31, while Hastings Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center will start vaccina­ tions Jan. 6. A representative from See VACCINE, page 2 Sheriffs ©ommeBits draw swsft statewide rebuke Tayior Owens Staff Writer Sheriff Dar Ixaf drew attention from state and local officials, after he was photographed at a May 18 rally with men now charged with supporting terrorism. News outlets broadcast photos of Dar Leaf on stage with members of the Michigan Liberty Militia, including William Null of Orangeville. Null is one of several men. including his twin brother, who were later arrested and charged as part of an investigation into an alleged plot to attack the state Capitol build­ ing and take hostages, including Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Both brothers were charged with providing material support for terrorist acts and possess­ ing a firearm in the commission of a felony. According to state Attorney General Dana Nessel, the men who’ve been charged alleged­ ly called on militia members to identify the homes of law enforcement officers to target them, made threats of violence to instigate a civil war and trained for an operation to attack the stale Capitol. See SHERIFF, page 8 In May Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf spoke at a rally in Rosa Parks Circle in Grand Rapids to protest Whitmer’s stay-at-home orders To the left of is William Null, of Orangeville, who was recently charged - along with several other men - in an alleged plot to attack the state Capitol building and take hostages, including Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. (File photo) Royal Coach fire ruled arson; housing development still a plan Titylor Owens Staff Writer One of the biggest fires in Hastings’ historv consumed the historic Royal Coach buiidh^ Oct. 7. 1Io Initially, Barry Central Dispatch received •. complaint of a strange odor, possibly smrxv !" '! mTc When. fi~r,Bh'ers arrived at m East Mill Street, the former factory wa< f/u engulfed in flames. 7 as fuIly About 40 firefighters poured approxim . . 625,(XX) gallons of water on the Mructur/ C * burned early that morning. * as 11 All but a few- walls of the thre 31 jOOO-square-foot building burned^?l°?' ground within a few hours. 0 lhe Firefighters from Hastings. pr.. Thomapple Township Emergency and Woodland Township Fire l)Cnl?’,Ces helped fight the blaze at its peak. l;r"'"C"1 Area Volunteer Fire l.t. Lum lorbe., said " Heat from the blaze set a nearby pole on fire, and Consumers Energy ___ ___ . • • the area- Because of lhe placcelectncity Consumers had to shut off meat of the 1 « •|)UtjOn substations, which power to four a customere. uli|ily eutoffelccinaty:^^^.^ y Schools, Maple Valley c^nty Christian School and Schools, « । Childhood Center had to “jeLak,C7X 'he widespread close that aay spokesperson -■ power consumers Energy officials. A“ Se"’su^hed from Hastings to P°Utr l. . jn lhe north, and to Cochran ^nMonCoun.y.toibeeasl, was too 1“lc 10 S‘’Vl; Ro-Val Coach huildino but damage to lhe nearby Hastings uLZluring Company was prevented. ^ ’■Considering »•“' " (Royal Coach) was fullv"invol'cd when we gol there ay could do "as protcc any other exposures,” r. See ARSON, page 8 A huge fire that destroyed Hastings’ historic Royalof^arson an 7 likely the largest in the city to date and led to cnmi 21-year-old Hastings man. (File photo) ‘ �VACCINE, continued from pa&*1~~" When COVID-10 Rarrv CoU --- --------------------- ' conflf'T’ed and Probab,e C“el b* DaY s,nce 9/1/2020, Barry C^?‘ 17 120 y, ICO ■ Probable H Confirmed 507625303^2030 A graph showing a drop in new cases of COVID-19 in Barry County, after a spike in November. Woodlawn Meadows said an exact date had not been set. but vaccinations arc expected within weeks. According co the health department, the vaccinations will be administered to three main groups before it is opened to the general public. The first group includes the vaccinators themselves, emergency medical service work­ ers. staff and residents of long-term care facil­ ities and healthcare workers. The second group covers a wide range of essential and critical infrastructure workers. such as school and childcare staff, and those who work in chemicals, communications, energy, financial services, government facili­ ties. infrastructure, funeral homes, homeless shelters and more. Colette Scrimger, BEDHD health officer, said that group may start receiving vaccina­ tions in February. . . The final group will be people with chronic health conditions and those who are 65 and older. Health department reports show a recent spike in C0V1D-19 cases in Barry County continues to subside, with 102 active cases reported Tuesday. That number is less than a third ot what it unjust a few weeks ago. lhe rate of positive tests also has come down. It had reached a high of about 21 per­ cent in late November, but has averaged 8.8 percent in the lasl scven days. the health department reported another tour deaths due to CO VID-19 in Barry County since last week, which brings the total number of deaths to 33. BEDHD also is reporting 207 current prob­ able cases of COVID-19 in the county. PANDEMIC, continued from page 1 mon flu doesn’t come close to that - and anyone who says that influenza is more dead­ ly than COVID-19 is interpreting the data incorrectly. “It’s the potential of what this virus could do,” Woodall said. Their mission was to ‘'Hatten lhe curve” to prevent the healthcare system from being overwhelmed by these cases, he said. While that strategy worked initially. COVID-19 cases spiked this fall - both in Bany County and the U.S. But the extra months leading up to that spike gave the healthcare system time to pre­ pare staff and intensive care unit beds. It also allowed doctors and scientists to learn more about how to fight the virus. Dr. Fergus Peacock, a hospitalist at Spectrum* Health Pennock, was part of a study led by lhe Mayo Clinic to research the effec­ tiveness of convalescent plasma in treating ’se venTciises of CO VID-19." Peacock said the medical world learned a lot from the first wave of cases in New York, and has been working to share information to improve the survivability rate of the virus. Thomapple Manor fought an outbreak this fall. The senior living facility unknowingly accepted a patient from a hospital and that patient had lhe virus. The patient had tested negative, although it was later believed the virus was in their system and had not yet spread enough to show up in a test. A number of staff and residents of the reha­ bilitation ward of the facility tested positive for the virus in lhe following weeks. To date, Thomapple Manor reported posi­ tive tests for 11 residents and 53 members of the staff, although Administrator Don Haney said some of those results were later deter­ mined to have been false positives. Patients at facilities like Thomapple Manor have been unable to receive visitors through­ out much of the year. Some family members had to visit their loved ones by waving al them through the windows. School administrators say the impact on education will not be fully understood for years. Public schools abruptly went into a threeweek shutdown in March, which was extend­ ed until the end of lhe school year. While most students did enrichment work, many district officials decided the circumstances of remote learning would make teaching new material too difficult for some students, and months of planned curriculum had to be thrown out. Districts spent the summer beefing up their technology, training staff and preparing fami­ lies for the fall, when schoolwork would be much more rigorous. The school year brought a slew of challeng­ es: The workload on many teachers drastical­ ly increased, as they were faced with both in-person and virtual instruction. It also put a major burden on parents, especially those with younger children who needed help with their school work. While the impact on school budgets wasn’t quite as disastrous as had initially been feared last spring, lhe cuts or freezes arc expected to continue well into next school year. Some schools had to make some major cuts, such as Maple Valley, which laid off high school Principal Mike Knapp, effective this month. Remote learning also magnified a critical weakness of rural areas like Barry' County: A lack of high speed internet connectivity. That deficiency created a gap in the ability of stu­ dents to complete their work, and schools had to” come up with a number of solutions, including delivering paperwork packets, sending families internet hotspots and creat­ ing wireless internet in school parking lots. Districts also partnered with local commu­ nity organizations to deliver tens of thousands of meals to students while they were at home. High school sports in the state came to a screeching halt in the middle of the state boys’ and girls' basketball tournaments. The official word came through from the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) that the remainder of winter sports tournaments and lhe entire spring sports sea­ son - including track and field, baseball, softball, boys’ golf, girls’ tennis, girls’ soccer, boys’ and girls’ lacrosse - were canceled. Football teams began fall practice, had their sports season pushed to the spring and then eventually a shortened fall regular season was put into place with every varsity team in lhe state invited to compete in the MHSAA state tournament. Eventually, low-risk outdoor sports like cross country, tennis and golf completed their seasons, as did higher-risk varsity sports like boys’ soccer. Another pause came in November, howev­ er, as cases of COVID-19 in the state began a steep rise. Indoor sports like volleyball and girls’ swimming and diving, which got a late start to their fall season, were a week away from completion. A couple of local athletes are still awaiting the chance to participate in the Division 1 Lower Peninsula Swimming and Diving Finals and the Lakewood varsity volleyball team is hoping to get the chance to conclude its season which stalled after lhe Vikings’ earned a spot in the Division 2 Stale Quarterfinals. A couple of rounds remain in the state's 11-player and 8-playcr football tournaments as well. Winter sports teams, such as boys’ and girls’ basketball, wrestling, competitive cheer, highpoint COMMUNITY BANK Please note our special HOLIDAY HOURS: Thursday, December 31st New Year's Eve - Close at 3 pm Friday, January 1st New Year's Day - CLOSED l‘‘hhies arc open by app^^ Member FDIC ^ahpointcommunitybankxorri lb: bowling and skiing teams, were hopeful to start their season at some point - but that’s not going to happen until 2021. Meanwhile, many businesses in communi­ ties throughout Barry County struggled in the wake of slate shutdowns and low customer turnout. While aid was made available through funding from government programs, such as the federal CARES Act. it wasn’t enough for some businesses to make ends meet. Walker Music and Textiles in downtown Hastings went out of business after it was forced to close during the state shutdown. The store had been in business for 11 years. Many fundraisers were canceled, and local non-profits had tocome up with creative ways to solicit donations w ithout in-person events. .. The Barty -Cowty Sheriff’s Office had to close its lobby, pu^^e services on hold and tell people to caMn theft complaints. Jurors for cd(it trials’ were selected at the Barry County Expo* Center and proceedings consumed most of the courtroom space to ensure that six feel of distance was main­ tained between jurors, court personnel, attor­ neys and audience members. Yet, as die year came to a close, health care officials pointed to signs of hope in the fight against COVID-19. Vaccines were received last week, and some nursing home staff and residents were expected to be inoculated this week. • BEDHD Health Officer Colette Scrimger said her department received 1,000 doses last Monday, to be split evenly between the two counties. Scrimger said essential workers, such as teachers, may be vaccinated as soon as February, after people in the healthcare indus­ try have received the vaccine. Those health care workers, on the front lines in the fight against the disease and work­ ing seven days a week since the fight intensi­ fied months ago. are exhausted, she said on Oct. 27. Now, as a year dominated by an unrelenting fight with lhe novel coronavirus comes to a close, lhe arrival of a vaccine has given them hope. Dr. Darryl Ehnouchi, president of Spectrum Health West Michigan, said holding that first shipment of vaccine “felt like a spiritual moment.” Follow The I Hastings Banner on Facebook to keep up to dite until the new edition ■s printed! Luminaries placed by members of the St. Rose of Lima Parish recognize healthcare workers at Spectrum Health Pennock Hospital in May. (File photo) Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Here’s the chronology for how CO VID-19 spread through Michigan and Barry County in 2020: Jan. 21 - The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announce the first U.S. COVID-19 case in Washington state. Jan. 30 - The World Health Organization declares COVID-19 “a global health emer­ gency.” Feb. 5 - The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services activates a coor­ dination center in response to lhe novel coro­ navirus. Feb. 29 - The first U.S. COVID-19 death is reported in Kirkland, Wash. March 10 - Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announces the first two presumptive positive cases of CO VID-19 in the state. March 12 - Whitmer announces 10 new cases of COVID-19 in the state, bringing the total to 12. March 13 - /XI! K-12 schools in Michigan close. March 16 - All bars and restaurants close for dine-in service, along with gyms, coffee houses and most other public places. * March 17 - The Bany County Board of Commissioners cancel meetings until April. 14, authorizing County Administrator Michael Brown to handle day-to-day business. March 18 - State officials report that a man in his 50s died at Wayne County’s Beaumont Hospital after contracting COVID-19; this becomes Michigan’s first reported fatality from lhe novel coronavirus. March 20 - Barry-Eaton District Health Department officials report the first case of COVID-19 confirmed in a Barry County res­ ident, a 45-year-old man. March 23 - Whitmer issues a statewide stay-at-home order for ail non-essential work­ ers for at least three weeks. March 31 - BEDHD officials confirm the second Barry County COVID-19 case in a 63-year-old man and report the death of a 71-year-old Eaton County man due to COVID-19. April 2 - Whitmer closes public schools for the remainder of the 2019-20 school year. /April 3 - The U.S. Centers for Disease Control recommends face coverings in public places where social distance measures are difficult to maintain. April 6 - Michigan reports 172221 con­ firmed cases of COVID-19 and 727 deaths. April 9 - Whitmer extends the stay-athome order through the end of April. April 12 - A 59-year-old Barry County woman dies from complications due to COVID-19, the first COVID-19-related death in the county. April 15 - BEDHD reports 18 positive COVID-19 cases in Barry County. April 17 - BEDHD Health Officer Colette Scrimger orders lhe 41 residents living in the 4 K 38-unit Mallard Pond Village Apartments tp quarantine for two weeks after a few residents there test positive for COVID-19. April 24 - Whitmer extends the stay-rflhome order through May 15. J April 29 - The quarantine at Mallard Pond is lifted. ; May 21 - A second Barry County death -Ja 29-year-old man - is attributed to COVID-19. May 27 - Barry County reports 62 positive cases of COVID-19. June 11 - Spectrum Health Pennook Hospital participates in a national COVID-IJ9 study headed by Dr. Fergus Peacock. | July 7 - Michigan exceeds 6.000 confirmed CO VID-19 deaths as three Gun Lake Casiri) employees test positive for COVID-19. I Aug. 12 - Health officials report that $7 COVID-19 cases are linked to Cainfc Michawana in Hope Township. .* < Aug. 18 - Nearly 60 people test positive trtr COVID-19 at a Hastings testing event. Aug. 19 - More than 50 cases of COVll}19 are linked to Camp Michaw'ana. Aug. 23 - The Federal Drug Administratich authorizes convalescent plasma treatment fdr COVID-19 patients. The treatment was par­ tially tested al Spectrum Health PennocK m Hastings. V Sept. 9 - Thomapple Manor reports Ip positive COVID-19 cases since Aug. 24. | Sept. 18 - A third Barry County person, ja 93-year-old man, dies from COVID-19. Sept. 23 - A fourth Barry County person,b 83-year-old woman, dies from COVID-19. Nov. 3 - Barry County reports more thaji 220 COVID-19 cases, increasing from 139 cases Oct. 27. Nov. 6 - The county’s COVID-19 positivi­ ty rate of 11.8 percent surpasses the rate in the Grand Rapids region, which is 10.7 percent. This means that, of all tests administered in a day, 11.8 percent came back positive. Nov. 17 - Barry County reaches a I7A percent positivity rate, the 16th highest in Michigan. Kent County records a 15.9 percent rate and Eaton County has a 12.6 percent rate. Nov. 20 - Middleville Village President Charlie Pullen dies from COVID-19. Nov. 25 - BEDHD officials prepare for distribution of a COVID-19 vaccine, in antic­ ipation of the drug’s approval. Officials report 97 COVID-19 cases confirmed in one day in Barry’ County, the highest daily rate of the year. , Dec. 11 - Barry' County Commissioner Dan Parker dies from COVID-19. Dec. 14 - Five Spectrum Health staff members in Grand Rapids receive the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine, which the FDA approved for use on Dec. 11. Dec. 17 - Barry County reports eight COVID-19 deaths in one week. Dec. 18 - The Modema vaccine, which will be distributed in Barry County, is approved for use by lhe FDA. Councilman Redman in hospital with COVID-19 Hastings councilman Bill Redman, 78, is battling COVID-19 at a hospital in Grand Rapids. City officials said Redman has been in the hospital for approximately one month, and will likely have a long road to recov­ ery- However, Redman’s condition is said to be improving. ”He seems to be improving, slowly — very slowly — but he is improving,” Councilman John Resscguie said. Mayor David Tossava addressed Redman's condition at the city council meeting Monday evening. "My only comment tonight is for our fellow councilman. Bill Redman "Tossava said. “I want us to keep him in our prayers, in our thoughts. Bill is in Grand Rapids now and I talked to his family and there really isn’t anything going on right now that I can pass on. but everybody just keep him in our hearts and prayers." "Boy. when Bill Redman shakes your hand you know it,” Councilman Jim Cart added. Q * : ’ J l �The The Hastings Hasims Banns —• A look back at the year in photos More than 5 ’/? inches of rain fell over seven days in mid-May. The Clary and Whitney Ditch flooded Barber Road between Woodlawn Avenue and Coats Grove Road May 19. One longtime resident said it was the first time in her life she’d seen that particular area flooded. Many area roads remained closed that week. (May 21) The judicial oath, as administered by Barry County Chief Judge William Doherty, is signed by new Judge Vicky Alspaugh and ■notarized here by Barry County Deputy Court Administrator Jan Otto. (Jan. 9) Residents at Journey Senior Living residents in Merrillville, Ind., prepare to release balloons with messages attached in October. One of those balloons landed in the parking lot of Star Elementary School in Hastings. As residents in the suburban Chicago facility eagerly waited for a response, students began writing letters and draw­ ing pictures. In all, 250 letters were collected and sent back, to the delight of the resi­ dents, who gathered around as the letters were read and pictures shared. (Nov. 12) North Broadway between Freeport and Vedder roads, just south of the Barry Ionia county border, was closed in mid-May after heavy rains washed away rocks and ^accumulated gravel from the bottom of the culvert. Three months later, after ample . consulting, research and creativity, the Barry County Road Commission was able to complete repairs to the culvert, rather than replace it. which would have been more ..expensive and inconvenient for motorists. (June 4) A massive cottonwood tree in Hastings Tyden Park, badly damaged by a storm, was converted to a fantasy play place. The top of the tree was badly damaged and had to be removed for safety rea­ sons. but city officials decided to preserve the trunk and convert it into a walk­ through treehouse. Here, Hastings native Jerry Miller begins cutting a doorway into the tree. (July 2) The Perfect Gift for the Person that has Everything Gift a Subscription of the Hastings Banner * ONLINE- $52 for 12 mo, Start Renew * HOME DELIVERY- (Barry County) $52 for 12 mo, Start Renew $10 for I moCJ $10 for 1 mo O * HOME DELIVERY-(or 12 mo ShrtO Renew 0 $10 fori mo (Allegan, Calhoun, Eaton, Ionia, Kalamazoo & Kent Counties) * HOME DELIVERY- $65 for 5 mo or more Start 0 Renew 0 $10 for 1 mo (Outside above counties) Rec ipient__________________ _______________________ _______ Street Address. ________________________________ City___________________________________________ ___ ______ _ Typing up the “Lake Odessa News" column for the Banner since the mid1980s, contributor Elaine Garlock has worn out several typewriters and is rais­ ing smoke on her current Smith Corona as she continues to keep friends and neighbors informed about what's happen­ ing in their community. Garlock, who turned 100 Aug. 27, still drives, is active in tier church and several historical groups, submits her weekly column and is always on the alert. “My daughter had assembled three sets of pictures lor my 90th birthday party ” she said in an August interview. • When I found out she never got rid of UThe --- third ffllf ^^^TZund log trusses hangs over its final position On ii,n of three 5.600-p^athoUSe/pavilion at the YMCA of Barry C0Unt ® Algonquin Lake side of the |fnprovements to the camp which began |asl Camp Algonquin Tuesday morni 9^ somelime jn Jljne. (May 14) ast August, are expected to them I knew she was saving them for my f.jneral Now she’s getting them out for nw 100th birthday pady and she’ll proba­ bly still use them at my funeral - she’ll get : to use those same photographs three iUmesF(Aug 27) . State _______ _. —------ Zip Phone------------------ - ---------- Sent by__________ -— --------- Email_________________ _________________________ __________ O Please send a card OEnclosed is a check for $52 (12 mo) or $10 (1 mo) or amount for home delivery PLEASE BILL MY CREDIT CARD: OVisa ^MasterCard ODiscover Credl Card Number. Expiration Date Security Code —----------------------------------------------------------Mail to or drop oft at J-Ad GraphlCS PO Box 188/1351 N. M-43 Hwy, Hastings, MI 49058 269-945-9554 Save a stamp, purchase your gift subscription online at www.hastingsbanner.com �_ TIM? BMW Bannef—— < - Ttwsaay. 0****^^---- —' ’ '' A great giver with the greatest gif* ^~~ 9 Santa Claus made his Christmas rounds and then, bofot0 y ~ 0 Did you •/ Do you t0 the ^rthouse North Polo, he made a very important stop at the Barry ^°^oUid come this lawn. While some others may have doubted that Christmas carn0 Despite year, he knew it would. Despite all lhe trials of 2020. Christm3 as *10 a COVID pandemic, it came just the same. And wo hoard fr strode out of sight: ’ Happy New Year to all. And to all a good r J After Hastings City Council went to remote meetings. Mayor the lone member standing to say lhe Pledge of Allegiance at the oegi regular meeting in council chambers on March 23. (File screenshot) remember? Chipping in for March of Dimes Banner Jim. 18. 1962 Friday’s "Coffee Day" - Tomorrow, in Hastings and other area restaurants, is to be Coffee Day for the New March of Dimes. Restaurant owners will serve coffee to their customers and give the proceeds to the Barry County March of Dimes. Here, workers in the Barry County Bureau of Social Aid are grouped around a big coffee to help emphasize the importance of everyone giving generously so that others may walk, and to help finance research that may someday eliminate birth defects. Seated above (from left) are Mrs. Edward Barber and Mrs. Charles Higbie, the supervisor of the bureau. Standing (from left) are Miss Sharon Kermeen, Mrs. Pierce Taylor, Mrs. Blanche Funderburk, area representative for the State Department of Social Welfare, Mrs. Margaret Wilcox, and Mrs. Dwight Fisher, the Coffee Day chairwoman. (Photo by Dick Waite) Have you met? Like the many students she advises at Hastings High School, counselor Cathy Longstreet is no stranger to career uncertain­ tyBom in Bay City, Longstreet never thought she’d become a high school counselor. She knew she wanted to help others and work in a service-oriented field, but many careers fit that criteria; she needed to find which one was right for her. First, she thought she'd go into business; but changed her mind and attained a bache­ lor's degree in psychology from Alma College with plans to pursue her Ph.D. However, shortly after graduating from Alma College, she married Brian Longstreet — a fellow Alma College graduate — and became pregnant with their first child. “Getting a Ph. D really was not in the cards when I was going to be that pregnant.’’ Longstreet said. “Sn 1 was . |I that. My father-in-law frOm counselor here at Hastings for d?e m ' “ho01 I realized his career, education so I starter was a great Irin t p'™ >Und ground - something I could do as a mom!" have summent off. but also still be invo™<£ intent in™ ,ha' 1 had ™ With aspirations of becoming a teacher Longstreet earned a masters in leadline from Aquinas College. Shonly thereafter she began teaching second-graders at Southeastern Elementary. However, after a few conversations with the schcxjl’s counselor, she once again decid­ ed to switch her career. ‘‘I was very interested in what she was doing with students and so almost immedi­ ately I looked into getting my counseling master’s,” Longstreet said. “So, I had just gotten my teaching master’s, but then I went back to school. ” After graduating with her counseling edu­ cation master’s from Western Michigan University, f^ongstreet was emergency-certi­ fied, due to the district’s dire need for coun­ selors. Since then, I>ongstreet has used the story of her professional and educational career. u’Hh its many twists and turns, to illustrate to indents tlie importance of properly planning future. . I “the This is story I tell the students because d‘dn’t have proper counseling when I was in school ” Longstreet ’Longstreet, along said. with her fellow coun^’lis res/xmsible for advising Hastings Cathy Longstreet High School's more than 500 students in three main areas: college and career, aca­ demic and social and emotional. “We talk with the kids about what do you want to do in the future and what should you take in high school to prepare for it— so that's a big part. Of course, mental health is a big part and it’s becoming an even bigger part as everybody’s kind of running high, right now — high anxiety with the way the learning environment is changing. “And then the academic part, helping them if they’re not being successful in school — usually, there’s more beyond the academ­ ics that is lhe reason.” One of Longstreet’s biggest challenges in advising students is lhe lack of exposure students have to diverse career fields and universities, having grown up in a rural com­ munity. “They don’t know what kind of careers are out there that they can be successful in," Ixmgstreet said. “So we spend a lot of time exposing them to different careers, whether it’s locally with tours of businesses or speak­ ers or just through assessments," The COVID-19 pandemic, has actually helped to remedy this issue. “Our students almost had more exposure to schools than they ever have because col­ leges have done such a good job of preparing all of their information virtually” l^ngstrcct said. “We've had more schools reach out to us because they don’t have to navel to us. Iltcy can just do a Zoom meeting with inter­ ested students, right from their home." However, the pandemic has made I-ongstrcct’s role more difficult in many other aspects, particularly when it comes to assessing the mental health of her students during remote learning. "You can reach out via any sort of commu­ nication method, but there are just some stu­ dents you don’t hear back from And that’s really scary’,’’ Longstreet said. “You don’t how everyone is doing and even the ones that maybe show up to class virtually every’ day — you don’t know what their home life is like.” Despite the challenges, Longstreet loves her job and is grateful to have found a career that fits her interests, passions and lifestyle. ”1 really love helping students get to their next level after high school - whatever that is,” Longstreet said. “And what I love the most is getting to know them and helping them.” For helping HHS students prepare for suc­ cessful professional and academic careers and caring for their mental health, Cathy Longstreet is this week’s Banner Bright Light. Best advice ever received: The right deci­ sion is often lhe hardest one to make. Favorite season and why: I love summer lor its wann days full of sunshine. What motivates me- learning something new. Favorite vacation destination: Most any­ where warm enough for palm trees to grow. Something raosl Jc don’t know about me: I spent a lot of L childhood away from home, training and* competing in horse ui Il JVV s. Favorite dinner. p h| made pasta. My biggest challenge: Finding a worfabf*oaiance. e What 1 like about mv fob- I lo« working ^■andkamin '^i' indents. 1 also nW that there Challenges every . Favorite board game- Sequence. »*<•»To ■itC- - - fatlti™ m<’S' C°ntC,rt whcn: * I he year 2020 marked a lime when most traditions went right out lhe window- - and local reporting reached a whole new' level of difficulty. Why? We can answer that question in two words: Remote meetings. Slate legislators, with the blessing of the governor, amended lhe Open Meetings Act to allow public bodies to meet remotely and remain in compliance with the law. Now. under an extension granted Dec. 22, that amendment has been extended to March 31. 2021. "Throughout this pandemic, Michigan’s local leaders have continually adapted while providing critical essential programs and services—which arc vitally important to residents and communities during this time,” Neil Sheridan, executive director of the Michigan Townships Association, said in a release from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s office. “We thank both Gov. Whitmer and the Legislature for extending the timeframe allowing townships and all local govern­ ments to meet virtually to conduct public business.” The recent legislation "ensures that our local leaders can continue to work on behalf of their community while safeguarding the health and safely of both elected officials and residents," Sheridan said. “Local governments arc providing critical services in response to the pandemic while ensuring the business of government contin­ ues in support of our residents and their livelihoods," William Wild, president of the Michigan Municipal League Board of Trustees, said. "That wouldn’t be possible without extending the no-reason virtual meeting provision that the Legislature and governor have now made law, and we thank them for their effort." We don’t disagree with lhe legislation or the need for it. And the comments from Sheridan and Wild arc well-taken. That’s not lhe problem. The problem is with the technology and, more precisely, how that technology is being used. Some governmental bodies do better than others, yes. Some boards and commissions do fairly well with Zoom. Participants’ faces arc shown on screen with their names; they raise their hands before they speak; they identify themselves; and they mute their microphones so that background noises don’t distract from lhe business at hand. Clearly, there’s a level of knowledge required to use this technology well. Thai’s likely a large part of lhe problem in small jurisdictions where proceedings of monthly meetings have never needed to be done remotely in lhe past. So a problem with the technology at the beginning of the pandemic seemed reason­ able. But, as the year has continued, the continuation of such problems began to appear almost w illful. By now. you’d think they would have figured it out. Take, for example, the Dec. 10 special meeting of the Hastings Cily/Barry County Airport Board. Any unsuspecting citizen who stumbled onto that meeting deserves a medal if they could stick with it and come away with a clear understanding of what wa* going on there. Even board members were crabby. Some 01 them said they didn’t know' what was goi»g on; they seemed frustrated and exas­ perated with each other. No one pX Viewed'' nn,l"P identif,ed ol' scrc<:»'?*ers could see some, but not all of th.. P^tteipants. except lor those kev nhn r faCCS aPPC^ b< Aa< in afcn Wh°5e fa“S WCre ™ a< *"h 'ny ing:al'±^iUI^,n°r>iSkP^ '“sons°i m? '"y childhocxlP. lhc Piano. She Wus’.S1’'nM,ng n “gifted Xician> even though shet Uri' ■ <ingle lcs'on' Hobbies- l> evcr“,oka Lding and traveling I lay«>l! the piW«-*■“* * not i<lent?n^Par":'ipa,i"S in a mccli"g know who i ’ °r-CVCI1 s u’"’n- how do >ou Plus r say'“8 what? direct uuirnnCC,,V,,> is poor’ forgcl about -__ tough io quote an auditor telling a oj |he . y board: “The financial ... has reached a ... and we don’t know .... but we would advise the board to ... before the ... or else the ... will result in ...” Some accounts of Zoom sessions else­ where in the country are. frankly, hilarious. Suffice it to say, some participants don’t dress up for these meetings - if they choose to dress at all. But. seriously, a connectivity problem doesn’t just affect our ability to report well - it affects lhe local government and its ability to operate well. It’s easy to see why officials have expressed such exasperation with the way they’ve had to operate. ------------- - 4 piece of paper affixed to the door of a township hall - where no one . is allowed in due to COVID-19 - is not going to inform many, if any, citizens when no one is coming to that building in the first place. Zoom sessions also reduce a sense of accountability. When people are gathered in council chambers looking each other in the eye, a sense of accountability is fairly obvi­ ous. But that feeling is tough to convey ona computer screen. In stressful limes like these, it may make it tempting for public officials to take lhe path of least resistance. Wouldn't it be easier to cope with a prob­ lem if the public didn’t know about it? And it is possible to “game" the system. Sometimes we see it in how or where public notice of a meeting is posted. A piece of paper affixed to the door of a township hall - where no one is allowed in due to COVID19 - is not going to inform many, if any, citizens when no one is coming to that building in the first place. Posting a meeting in that way is action that meets the letter of the law - but certain­ ly not its spirit. Under the Open Meetings Act, if a special meeting is called, the time between the meeting and the public notice of it is only 18 hours, rather than the 10 days normally required for a regular meeting. Fewer hours for posting notice of a meeting can game lhe system, loo. by closing the window of time in which residents can be made aware of lhe special session. That question - of calling a special meet­ ing lor the Middleville Village Council to consider a candidate for its vacancy fot president - came up earlier this month thankfully, the council chose not to call a special meeting for that purpose . We applaud that decision. Many local government leaders in Barry County are dealing well with these demand­ ing times - and they’re making lhe righi decisions. We can say this because we'rt paying attention. We have a covenant with our readers who want to know- what's going on and w< arc bound and determined to tell them. When w e look back at this year and how we’ve had to cover local government am how it was forced to operate, we think of the photo of Hastings Mayor David Tossava standing alone in the City Hall council chambers saying lhe Pledge of Allegianct bj himselt during a remote session. It was a surreal image of the time lha seems iconic now. What will it represent to all of us a year from now? We don't know - and won’t even try’ ti predict - but we certainly hope it’s no mor than a memory of troubled times that ar past. Happy New Year. Rebecca Pierce Editor �r _Thu«<W OcC<"nWf 3'' 2020 ~P’*1 Tn8H3^B^r 1 | State should Prairieville Township see s open d°Or for recycling survey responses gram pay f a. drop off any recyclabks. expungement Luke Fronchrck before a restJc’1 • remain. Resident Writer Only six rec >. L ,;*. ri;J ls from 2lo 6 pan. at of drunk driving lhe PrairievilleStaJ] Township recycling com­ can drop ott ,l,e,r f ‘ hip Rail on the follow, mittee ts seeking responses to a survey about ihc Prairieville lov J b |2 an<j 26 and the ongoing township recycling program. inE days- Jan. Band offenses “As we continue to look at next step-, (or jjnded residents to recycling, we are asking for input Irom each March 12 arid ^6. Committee membe. jjstandng guidehousehold in Prairieville Township.’’ commit­ observe the 6-toot s ‘ waU.r bottles ........tee . member Mary Ann DeVries said. “If you lines and asked ,hc,n . e nn d make sure currently recycle or not. your feedback is and Govai|„w ine for """,aw “ and milk jugs to free t P • • rjnscd so no important.” The survey is available at the township the items they are recy<- r> * website, prairicvilleiwp-mi.org. under the residue remains. unclean items i To lhe editor. vvatcr being discharged into our beautiful “When non-recyclabl may In the Dec. 24 edition of The Hastings nver that people use downstream of this facil­ recycling tab. are placed in the b",’..lhu’ m n,ttee members | Banner, the article about the wastewater facil­ Trustee Ted DeVries addressed lhe survey was sponsor by ity, I don’t sec how the environment, the tax­ ‘K ScBi" I-’4' „This is during a regular remote board of trustees sent to the landl'H. /j ity upgrade *as interesting. payers and the customers of the water and meeting Dec. 23. He reminded residents to fill wrote on the township vvcbsit Several positive attributes about lhe project sewer department are being treated (no pun of 1965 P2I3 (' f . ‘-Hand allow indicounter-priKluctive to the foa s t ; were mentioned in the article: Smoother oper- intended) properly or fairly. oul a survey if they can. viduak wilh ‘ ^tXth "g "Wle inl,’xigram. Please make sure all items arc Residents who prefer a hard copy of the i alion of the facility. belter working condiI don l like to point out what 1 would call ‘Mr records. In other business, the board. • lions, improved efficiency and effectiveness “ineptitude.” but I didn’t read anything in the cated convicu"ns 10 survey can pick it up at the Prairieville The legisla,‘°.n'" 11 *,as bevn passed by Township Hall during business hours on • Paid $50.KX0 in bills. . . ' in the long term. Ultimately, its aimed al sav- article lhat would point lo a legitimate reason - Approved the 2020 township poverty both the Mich'?’1’ and House of Tuesdays and Thursday s from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. , ing the city money in the future. for such a long delay in doing this very Representative5 an< ■ - passed on to Gov. The office is closed Irom noon to I p.m. to guideline. Board members agreed to increase So 1 am at a lass as to why it look so long important and necessary project. Whitmer for her 5 Sn™ e. amends previous give staff time for a lunch break. the federal annual income threshol ° ■ to implement the •‘plan’* that is being worked A much better use of the money that was legislation prohibi the expungement of DeVries asked lhat only one survey be $12,760 to $15312. Any township resident J on. paid in fines would have been to have used OWl convictions. I nt ‘“•once signed, will who is making less than that is eligible tor a tilled out per township household. Having intentions to do something and that money for this project. take etket on April 11.2021. The current recycling program began in pro pert) tax exemption. J actually doing something are two very diffcrIf more information is available. I’d be This is an important milestone. 1 strongly September and is scheduled to continue - Agreed to spend a total of $783 for equip­ * ent things. happy to hear of it. believe that those with a one-time offense of ment purchases, including $483 for medical through March. The recycling committee was With violations and fines over a number of Sorry. I can’t give kudos to folks for doing operating a vehicle while intoxicated should formed to rind a more long-term solution for gear and $300 for chainsaw chains. years.issued by the state, what kind of motiva­ their jobs. be eligible to clear their records. - Welcomed new board trustees Mark township recycling after the expiration of the tion is needed to gel someone to take their 1 have defended many individuals charged Doster and Ted DeVries, “h’s an honor to be serious job seriously? James Mero. with OWl and believe that the education pro­ current program. Recycling committee members include here. ” Doster said. They replace Richard Van With fines being imposed and unclean Hastings grams that all offenders must go through have DeVries. Mary Meagher. Ramie Almeda, Niman, who was unsuccessful in his re-elec­ helped lower the number of repeat offender Mary Kinney. Cheryl VanderVeen and tion bid. and Breanna Borden, who did not Supervisor Jim Stonebumer. cases-. seek re-election. These programs have served as a great Residents participating in the current prodeterrent. We need to acknowledge the suc­ cess of these programs and allow this scarlet letter permanently placed on individuals’ records to be removed and help them move on with their lives. i To lhe editor: masks don’t come off in the theater or gym! In 1918, the Spanish flu affected 100 mil­ All businesses should not be penalized Sarissa Montague, ! lion people and killed 50 million people. only those that are not follow ing the rules. Kalamazoo-based criminal defense attorney I So why is COVID being portrayed as the Any eating joint in Hastings that I went to I .tike Froncheck must watch the car drop from inside their I worst flu pandemic in history’? Not! follows the rules. vehicles. Tickets are $10 per car. No more Stu ff Writer | But, most of all, wc can go to a grocery I can’t wait to see what the next four years Want lo give 2020 the send-off it deserves? than 50 carloads of people can attend. । store, shoe store, discount store, big box store. bring us. The staff at Fox View, an event center in Restrooms and concessions arc available, but I movies, coffee shop - yet we cannot go to a Nashville, is offering people an opportunity to attendees must wear masks whenever they arc i restaurant to eat oul. Deb James, smash things, grab dinner to go, or watch a outside their vehicles. So someone please explain this to me Hastings car drop at the stroke of midnight as perfect The car to be dropped is being prov ided by An Dec. 17 article on Page X about Hastings Passing germs is passing germs, it’s not like ways to welcome in a new year - and bid lhe Mussers ?Xuto Service of Nashville. Charter Township trustees approving an old one goodbye. An earlier time slot also is being offered for adjustment in the federal poverty threshold ‘ “If you thought 2020 was a wreck, what people to come early and smash their own inadvertently omitted information that better way to celebrate it ending than with a “crummy 2020 household items and memen­ explained what that adjustment means. The bang as wc drop a car from 50 feet in the air?” tos.” organizers said. $12,760 threshold approved by board mem­ “Do it yourself, or watch‘others use\a event organizer /Xaron Warner wrote in a news bers is the federal guideline level and is the release. “You’ve seen the ball drop in Times sledgehammer and a bulldozer to put an end --------------■ - ■ . same jus the amount tfxy approved in 2019. Square, but you won’t want to miss this car tn the misery of 2020 and make way dor the Supervisor Jim Brown said one or two fami­ The Hastings Banner welcomes letters to the editor from readers, but new year,” Warner wrote. “Bring a photo of lies qualify for the exemption. The township smash as we hoist an actual car above there are a few conditions that must be met before they will be published. y our ex to demolish orchcxise from an assort­ does not pay residents who meet this thresh­ Nashville. Michigan’s highest point.” ’Hie event is scheduled to start at 11 p.m. at ment of items onsite.” I The requirements are: old requirement, he said. The adjustment Fox View. 975 North Main St., when anyone Dinners arc available for pick-up at 5 p.m. means that township residents who earn less •All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone age 18 and up is welcome to take turns beat ­ for those families who want to bring in the than lhe $12,760 annually qualify for a onenumber provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s ing the car with various tools they can choose new year from the comfort of their own home. year property tax exemption. name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous in the hour leading up lo midnight. Each dinner kit comes with non-alcoholic letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for What’s left of the vehicle will be decorated spirits and party favors. compelling reasons only. in lights then hoisted into the air just before Tickets are available at wvvw.YourFoxView. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not midnight. com or call (2691 758-4200. be published. The event is drive-in only, and attendees I Wastewater and wasted time and money xrss6— j Penalize only the rule breakers - not all businesses Car drop m Nashville to conctade 2020 with a bang Correction /rite Us A Letter: i • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for or criticisms of businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless there is a compelling public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed, double-spaced. Know Your Legislators: Michigan Legislature r vernor Gretchen Whitmer, Democrat, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, Mich. 48909. C’° /Ai7) 373-3400; 517-335-7858 (Constituent Services). Ph°n® ppnresentative Julie Calley, Republican, 87th District (All of Barry County), • -1 n House of Representatives, N-1191 House Office Building, Lansing, Ml Michigan 373-0842. e-mail: JulieCalley@house.mi.gov 48933. Ph°n t john Bizon Republican, 19th District State Senate, Phone 517State Senai • g55.347.8OI 9. Email: SenJBizon@Senate.Michigan.gov US 373-2426 or to '-1 , p Q Box 30036t Lansjng M| 43939. SOCIAL SECUBHW WATTERS Soda! Security benefits increase im 2021 Vonda Van T il Public Affair^ Specialist Nearly 70 million Americans will sec a 1.3 percent increase in their Social Security bene­ fits and Supplemental Security Income pay­ ments in 2021. Federal benefit rates increase when the cost of living rises, as measured by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Consumer Price Index. The CPI-W rises when inflation increases, leading to a higher cost of living. 1 his change means prices for goods and services, on aver­ age, are a little more expensive, so lhe COL A helps lo offset these costs. January 2021 marks other changes that will happen, based on the increase in lhe national average wage index. For example, the maxi­ mum amount ol earnings subject to Social ’ mail: Sen. Of- jonr k*oncnoN U.S. House of Representatives . mdeoendent, 3rd District (All of Barry County), 114 Cannon House Justin Amashjnoep D c 20515.2203. phone (202) 225-3831. fax (202) 225Office Building/wa * Michigan Street NW, Suite 460, Grand Rapids. Mich. 49503 5144' K)451 83S3' ' ’ 15?ff □emocrat, 702 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C 1 NO MORE GUTTER CLEANING, OR YOUR MONEY BACK GUARANTEED! 10& f you* U.S. Senate Phone Security payroll tax in 2021 will be higher. Hie retirement earnings test exempt amount also will change in 2021. More information on this can be found at ssa.gov/news press/ factsheets/colafacts2021 .pdf. We have been mailing COLA notices throughout the month of December lo retire­ ment, survivors and disability beneficiaries, SSI recipients, and representative payees You also can securely view and save the Social Security COLA notice online via the Message Center inside My Social Security. My Social Security account holders can opt out of receiving a mailed COL/\ notice and other paper notices that are available online. You can choose text or email alerts when there is a notice in Message Center by updat­ ing your preferences at ssa.gov/myaccount/ HNIOR I umrAHY Promo Number 285 • opt-out html so you always know when we have something important for you. Be the first to know. Sign up for or log in to your personal account today at ssa.gov/myaccount. Choose email or text under “Message Center Preferences” to receive courtesy noti­ fications. This way you won’t miss your online COLA notice. More information about the 2021 COLA can be found at ssa.gov/cola. Vonda Vun Til is the public affair for West Michigan. You may utile her do Social Security Administration, 3^ hnapp NE, (hand Rapids Ml 49525. or via email to vonda.vaiitiKd ssa.gov. Call any time to place your Hastings Banner classified an 269-945-9554 or 1-800-870 7fl85 5?ff fOTHtmsr socAuttjr >• Flannels & Cottons । onci^'orone^02) 22t4|2Russell Senate Office Building. Washington. D.C. 20510­ 720. 1’0 Mie>”9an <3150 ,.202-4S6-11" Capilol Inlormal.on lino (w Con .^mpnt lino- 1 President's and the Senate-1 f ;• Prints S' Solids Quilting Fabrics - ■ j good selection District office: Gerald R. Ford Federal Building ponm 4ssra »'”■ AS ’ peters Democr^- 224-3121. ________ ________________________________ 'yo-ss mr copies, one-hour photo processing c° invitations and all your printing needs. See US cards, I business ntiics’ PRINTING PLUS l-Ad - north of Hastings city J fv M-43 HWV-------------------------1351 N- MICHAEL KINNEY plumbing l ensed Master Plumber J<“»-ncyman Plumber ,UKI) will II. WATER HL VIURS Irrrrrrlhuion (269) 94S-2248 -—-i^l£J269) 838-5112 �Robert Leon Bertrand On December 20. 2020 Margaret Shaver passed awav peacefully after a brief illness. She wa/bom in Hastings in June 1937. and graduated from Hastings High School in 1955. She married Joseph Shaver in 1957, and they spent 63 wonderful yean, together. She spent the majority of her time researching her family lineage, while also creating photo albums lhat our family will continue to cherish. In earlier years Margaret and her husband traveled the country collecting antiques and experiencing all the world has to offer. She spent the last years of her life enjoying quality time with her family. She is lovingly remembered by her husband. Joseph Shaver; her sister and spouse Mary lyn and Don McKenzie: her two sisters-in-law and spouses, Donna and Fred Meyer. Catherine and Peter Emster; her three children and spouses. Deborah and Jeff Anders. Barbara Shaver, Joseph Shaver Jr. And Donald Aultman: her three grandchildren and spouses. Michael and Nicole Anders. Cor)' Shaver and Ashley Watson. Rachel amd Dylan Shelly; her two great grandsons. Clayton and Tyler Anders; her newborn great great granddaughter. Addalynn Anders. Cremation will be taking place, and memorial services will be held at a later time. Arrangements provided by Girrbach Funeral Home, Hastings, Michigan. To leave online condolences visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Steven Jay Main, age 56. He passed on December 23, 2020 at a nursing home in Lowell, Laurels ot Kent. Steven was bom May 10. 1964 in Fort Lauderdale, FL. to Floyd Junior Main and Charlene Marie [Barton, MainJ Service. In 1973, the family moved back home to Michigan where Steven attended Hastings Area Schools. When Steve was younger, he enjoyed hunting and fishing in his spare time. As he grew older, he enjoyed more time with his family and dog, Roachy. He was a hard worker and performed many occupations throughout his life including roofing, insulating, car wash manager, and several other miscellaneous jobs. He was preceded in death by his father, Floyd Junior Main. Steven is survived by his mother. Charlene [Barton. Main] Service; son. James (Elizabeth) Main; son. Bryan (Kimberly) Main; daughter. Kimberly (Delbert) Main: grandchildren. OnnaRac. Cameron. Ava, Alyssa, Brennen. Brendan, Alexandria, Alex, Logan, Emma and Violet: sister, Lucinda (Cindy) Main; brother, Tony (Stephanie) Main: brother, Michael (Donna) Main; as well as many nieces and nephews. Per Steven’s request, cremation has taken place. A Celebration Of Life for Steven will take place at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. To leave an online condolence visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. Worship Together ...at the church of your choice Weekly schedules of Hastings area churches available for your convenience... HASTINGS FREE METHODIST CHURCH "Wc Exist To Be An Expression Of Who Jesus Is To The World Around Us". 2635 N. M-13 Hwy., P.O. Box 8. Hastings. Telephone 269­ 945-9121. Email hastfmcfo gmuil.com- Website; www, HASTINGS BAPTIST CHURCH LIFEGATE COMMUNITY CHURCH 309 E Woodlawn, Hastings. Matt Moser, Lead Pastor. Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service; Senior High Youth Group 6-8 p.m.; Young Adults 6-9 p.m. Wednesday. Family Night 6:30-8 p.m.. Kids 4 Truth (Children Kindergarten-5th Grade), 6.30-8 p.m. Middle School Youth Group; 6:30 p.m. Bible Study and Prayer. Call Church Office 948-8004 for information. 301 E State Rd.. P.O. Box 273, Hastings. MI 49058. Pastor Scott Price. Phone: 269-948­ 0900. Website: www.lifegatecc. com. Sunday Worship 10 am. Wednesday Life Group 6:30 p.m. William “Bill” Edgar Kenyon, age 89. of Middleville, passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on December 22.2020. Bill was born on June 2. 1931 in Thomapple Township to Arthur and Angelina (Williams) Kenyon. Bill was a 1950 graduate of Thornapple Kellogg School. On April 21,1951, he married Neva Bry ans, and together they shared 69 years of marriage. For 27 years. Bill worked with his brothers as a mechanic at the Central Garage that his father owned. They were proud to sell and service Pontiac vehicles and GMC trucks. Bill owned a 1926 Pontiac that his father Art Kenyon had acquired. Later, Bill worked for the Village of Middleville for 10 years. Bill was proud of his community and served in various rules such as on the Middleville Village Council for 12 years, and as a Thomapple Township Trustee for eight years. Bill was a member of the Middleville United Methodist Church He was also a charter member of the Middleville Lions Club and was involved in the Middleville and Wayland Snowmobile Association, serving as a two-time past president. In 2004, Bill and Neva moved to the Kenyon Centennial Fann. Bill enjoyed golfing, playing caz< putting together puzzles, and cutnpinf. Bill is survived by his wife,Neva Kenyon; children, Gayle Anne (Douglas) Henning, David (Peg Fox) Kenyon; grandchildren, Dan (Katie) Kenyon, Philip (Christy) Kenyon; great grandchildren, Bryce and Grahm Kenyon; brother. Rodney Kenyon; many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings. Robert (Donna) Kenyon, Charlotte (Rodney) Finkbeiner; sister-in-law, Carol Kenyon. A private service has been held and burial will take place in Mt. Hope Cemetery. A public Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Middleville United Methodist Church or lhe Middleville Lions Club. Please visit www. beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or leave a condolence message for Bill’s family. Kathleen Mull Kathleen “Kathy” Mull (Sharp) died peacefully at her assisted living facility, ha>lijoi;-'liccni£Llii2diiiJ3un. Avamere - Rio Rancho, after succumbing to PLEASANTVIEW Pbstor Brian Iced, Assistant the effects of COVID-19 on December 22, FAMILY CHURCH Pastor Emma Miller. Worship 2020 in Rio Rancho. NM at (he age 2601 Lacey Road. Dowling, Director, Martha Stoetze!. Kathy is survived by her children, Kristine Ml 49050. Pastor. Steve Sunday Morning Worship: Olmstead. (269) 758-3021 Mulnix, Rebecca Main (Tracy Cone). 9am and 10:30 am. Due to lhe church phone. Sunday Victoria (William) Fuessel, Thomas (Vicky) current health crisis, our Service: 10 a.m. Main; her beloved grandchildren, Chelsea nursery is remains closed. (great grandson Ethan) Elizabeth, and Talon WOODGROVE Weekly.™;ti\jty. bags for chilren WELCOME CORNERS Mulnix, Amber (Josh) Murray (great are available in lhe 9 a.m. BRETHREN UNITED METHODIST grandsons, Callan and Sean), Matthew rervice and Kid s Church is CHRISTIAN PARISH CHURCH Fuessel. Lillith and David Main, and her available in our 10:30 service. 4887 Coats Grove Rd. Pastor 3185 N. Broadway. Hastings, brother, Thomas Shan) and sister-in-law, Randall Bertrand. Wheel­ Our worship center is set up for MI 49058. Phone 945-2654. Barbara, and a very loved four-legged chair accessible and elevator. MKial distancing. Altennaih Worship Services: Sunday, shadow. Chance. 3****** Sunday School 9:30 a.m. 9:45 am. Student Ministries: Sunday 6 She was preceded i n death by her parents, Worship Time 10:30 a.m. Harold and Esther (Erway) Sharp. p.m. Youth activities: call for SOLID ROCK BIBLE Kathy was bom on November 24.1945 in information. CHURCH OF DELTON ST. ROSE OF LIMA Muskegon, to Harold and Esther Sharp. She 7025 Milo Rd.. P.O. Box 765. CATHOLIC CHURCH graduated from Thomapple Kellogg High CHRIST THE KING (comer of Milo Rd. & S. M­ KOS S. Jefferson. 269-^ School rn 1963. n, P‘h0„t her life she PRESBYTERIAN 43). Delton, Ml 49(M6. Pastor 4246 Pastor iWr Stephan CHURCH (PCA) Roger Claypool. (517) 2(Menjoyed gardening, sewing, fading, 328 N. Jefferson Street. 9390. Sunday Worship Service watching sports, s<£iaIizing with everyone phibp. Saiunlay. Mass 8 and II a.m. Worship I0 a.m. Nursery 10:30 to 11:30am, Nursery and who came across her path, listening 10 Children's Ministry. Wednesday provided. Pastor Peter Adams, country musie, h spemliftg nme Sunday night Bible study and prayer contact 616-690 8609. with her dog Chance, and keeping up with time 6:30 to 7:30 pm the lives ot her children grandchildren, and senice is pnivided b}' The Hastings Banner, lhe churches greatgrandchildren This infcinnatioti on ■ I businesses^_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _Due to the pandem;, there wi11 l,c n0 '•isitation or funeral at this 'in,ef-’nly is plannin " „tennent/memonal A- exfob 1699 W. MW Highway, 1351 North M-43 Hwy. Hastings 945-9554 Hastings. Ml 49058. 945-4700 Hmsub 1301 W. Green St. Hastings 945-9541 Robert Leon Bertrand was welcomed into the arms of the Divine on Dec. 9, 2020. Bom July 13,1942, the fourth child of eight, to Leon and Ruth (McMaster) Bertrand of Syracuse, New York. Bob graduated from Onondaga Central High School, salutatorian of the class of ‘60. Instead of college, he took lhe job offered by A.T.&T. a day before turning IS. It was perfect: Bob stayed for the next 30 years. As a 23 year old, he was given the assignment of driving all over NY Shite introducing a new computerized ordering system, latter, he was chosen as part of the divestiture team with A.T.&T. During the summer of 1961. Bob met Wilna Elaine Miller, as she spent the summer with her aunt. Story, with a happy ending. She stayed. They married. Three sons, Robert, Andrew, and Randall were bom to make sure Mom and Dad never were bored. And they never were. Bob was an amazing role model. He coached Midget League Basketball throughout elementary school and beyond. To this day he is remembered for playing everyone on the team. Natural talent, or not. No favorites. He played for a community basketball league. He never bragged; his sons did that for him as Bob’s team won the championship their first year. The family attended Kirkville Wesleyan Church for many years. Bob taught the College and Careers Sunday School Class. He and his wife were Youth Leaders during that time. Every four years they took a van load of kids to various nationwide Christian Youth Conventions across the country, knowing it was important for them to realize thousands of others shared their faith. Mountain climbing in the Adirondacks was another fun experience. The views are spectacular and worth the work. Bob had a million interests and was passionate about each one. He, with the help of family, held a neighborhood Bible School each summer in the basement of their home in Chittenango. NY. He himself wasn’t particularly musical, but after hearing a bell choir, he energetically promoted the desire for a bell choir at church and helped raise the funds to make the drcam come true. Bob was a born mechanic and helped the boys keep their old shaky cars running during their college years. He and Rob (mechanic extraordinar) had cars and motorcycles in common. Bob’s second car was a BMW motorcycle. He rode it to work nearly every* day of the year and some when he shouldn’t have. Think about it: Bikes and Snow - in Syracuse! The man look up weight lifting when Andrew did. Or maybe Andrew teamed it from him? Either way, it was more than a sport. It became a way of life for both. Bob became an ultra distance cyclist as did his son, Randall; another very’ enduring, strong son-bond. Volunteer work was very important to Bob. He was lhe Tuesday Classroom Guy at N. Chittenango Elementary School for many years. He faithfully helped with the swim program and the horseback riding program, beneficial to special children. He built classroom tee-pees for first graders and was lhe go to person when the new math was introduced. In 1990, at age 48, Bob hung up the phone in the Syracuse Office for the last time. His sons had all left home. He decided retirement was a chance for Wilna to spend Iraditional and Cremation Services Pre-Planning Services large Parking Lot -11andicap Accessible Serving/Ml Faiths Pre-arrangement Transfers Accepted "fleral I tale BlllingNk-v thMKr Manager 328 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI 49058 269-945*3252 • www.Rlrrbachfuncrallionie.net ” Family Owned and Operated The Hastings Pubhahodby.. Hastings Banner, Inc. M „ o u A Division of J’Ad Graphs Inc. 1351 N. M-43 Highway • Phono: (269) 945-9554 • Fax: (269) 945-5192 ______ Jnd press releases: news@radgraphics.com * Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com Frederic Jacobs Publisher & CEO CFO • newsroom . lieu of tlowers^’ send donations to -- Banner Delated to the Interests of Barry County since 1856 Hank Schuuring l]ie familj wouj^'” Ed Burran. Ka hy-s dear friend, £ h S loving «« time with her people. Things fell into place perfectly. House sold; House bought. Relocated in Hastings, Bob was ready for new hobbies, friends and adventures. Life doesn’t always play out to Hallmark perfection. It can be a downright challenge. Seven months later, the results of a car/ bicycle accident became the biggest challenge of Bob’s lifetime. Throughout the next 29 years. Bob exampled grace, courage, determination (cal! it and an even stronger faith. He spent time every' morning, hovered over a devotional book authored by one of the heavy hitters of our time. A.W. Tozer, C.S.Lcwis, or Oswald Chambers. hi 2002, Bob was nominated to carry the torch during the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics...and was selected! He walked his assigned portion of the route unassisted while a proud group of relatives and friends lined the street and cheered. A day no one will ever forget. Bob did every thing he could for as long as he could, to lhe very best of his ability..4he way he always did things. He never gave up, even when encouraged (begged) to “just take a break!’’ Bob is finally taking a break. Life won’t be the same for his wife. Wilna; his sons. Rob (wife Suzanne) of Hastings; Atty. Andrew (wife Kristi) of Ft. Collins Co; and Pastor Randall (wife Agathe) of Hastings. Bob’s well being depended on these people and it was their honor. Also surviving arc Bob’s little sister, » Pamela (husband Ray Clement); Admired Brothers CWO4 USN (Ret) Richard (wife Linda) FL; William of AR: Malcolm (wife Cindi) AZ; and John (wife Debbie) NY. Brother-in-law, Paul McGraw. TX. Dearly loved, also were the Miller Clan; Jean Shoemaker. Marilynn Wright, Vem Miller, Arlene Maloney, Elaine Eckman, Alton Miller and June Miles. If you were a Grandchild, Great-grandchild, Cousin. Niece, Nephew, or Friend of Bob’s, add YOUR name. Among Heaven’s greeters were parents; Leon and Ruth, sister Mary Bertrand and beloved sister Peggy McGraw. Also sister­ in-law, Beverly Bertrand, parental in-laws. Forest and Betty Miller; Brother-in-law and “best friend” Lyle Miller. Alvin Miller, and Loren Miller. Cremation, as per Bob’s wishes, has taken place. In time, his sons will release his ashes high on “a mountain top I never got to climb.” A celebration of Bob’s life is tentatively planned for July 2021. We are indebted lo lhe people of Woodgrove Parish for their outpouring of love for our family al this time and always. You were a special beacon of light and joy lo Bob. Sunday after Sunday, year after year. Rebecca Pierce (Editor) Kathy Maurer (Copy Editor) Brett Bremer (Sports Editor) ®ales Luke Froncheck ____^^iandler _________ Taylor Owens • ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT • accttfixi McnJay trough Friday, t) 30 a «i) to 5 00 p m Scott Ommen Mike Gilmore Ty Greenlieki Jennie Yonker Subscription Rates: $52 per year in Barry County $60 per year in adjoining counties $65 per year elsewhere POSTMASTEH Stfod atxkwss changes to. PO Be* 16tf Ki5l«ngs. M> A'WOlbS Secjrd Cnus PvsUOo Paki a! Hastngs. Mi 49058 1 ; • : . . �' fl look back at the stories an(l columns on local history ✓ 111 the Hastings Banner // X TURNING / BflGK THE I PAGES Local news from the last three months of 1940 The City of Hastings discussed replacement of the Michigan Avenue bridge in 1940, but the new span, pictured here in 1949, was delayed for several years. The new, wider 1949 bridge was replaced with yet another slightly wider bridge in 2012. The city council voted to buy a new firetruck in 1940, but World War II intervened, and no new truck was purchased until 1947. The city had previously purchased this 1936 Studebaker, and that, with lhe 1919 LaFrance, had to do. This column, researched and written by the late Esther Walton, was published in the Jan. 3. 1991, Banner. Locally, the news that would affect most people in the area was paving highways between major cities. Until this time, all major roads between Kalamazoo. Battle Creek and Grand Rapids were gravel, sometimes muddy, roads. The Oct. 3, 1940. Banner reported that M-43 in Woodland was paved for 0.83 mile within the village limits. This paving, the paper noted, was part of the M-43 paving project from Kalamazoo to Lansing. The Hastings City Council voted to buy a new firetruck to replace the old LaFrance. The apprentice training program at Hastings High School also made news. It was in its third year, and the need for it was apparent. Increased demands for instruction in the metal trade, machinist profession, foundry practice, pattern-making, drafting, meat cutting, dry­ goods sales, retail grocery, gas station sales and service and dry cleaning were noted. Some people who made news in late 1940 were Leslie Engian, who opened a new grain and bean elevator in the old CK&S freight depot; Gladeon M. Barnes, a Hastings High School graduate, who was promoted to the rank of brigadier general; lhe Hon. Ellis Faulkner of Delton, who. as guest speaker for lhe Rotary Club, touched on some of the problems that confronted his committee, the Legislature, and on laws that needed to be enacted. . 1’he Oct. 10 Banner featured a book fair and called it a success, with 7.103 people attending, l he “new books for old” campaign gX spring collected a total of108.991 old books. On the basis of one for five the WK. Kellogg Foundation distributed 21.798 „hooks in Barry County. The Hastings Commercial Club [today s chmnbe of commerce) and the Michigan cnamotr Association worked out color toum through Barry County The several <-oi Three lours started from tours ran Oc . -■ -MjtUIeviHe. One tour Hastmgs und one fmm wcnt lo Charlton Park. • t The running of dog Thomapple. River. , hi;re seemed to be (94()s „ a common spol,sored the 2(1' ’ Wolverine Bcagl C |,ere. annual licensed A .. nought out the interest Mrs.AlmaFmgle^'^ltl,.I)()nnel and of Mrs. Manne Sch Gown Shop, a ladit- * ((|| |hc p s( |<w) |h<_ |(K..,||) 50 years. front , , s shops and men s owned and operated or Thjrty years clothing stores have jheM. spcc,alty ago. (here were Street-) stores up and down - 4 ipi.rvisors, now The county ^m,„i5Siom-rs. was being called the board of _*• ’ ily> asking that Ik petitioned by the t0 ^ruction of a 51111,1 ,L county provide for r]|(MI park tn w e fireproof building 1 pioneers and n • to house the relics of ^P‘,f was Mund this of this- county- fht drop.off plus'petition drive, and w .j petitions. B,1(t|e Creek m'P Camp Custer near • d jn the nW > its landing field. ‘‘"d ,nU from that grant was $5,000 for a landing field in Hastings. As rhe war in Europe continued, lhe draft law was being enacted, and each county had to have a Selective Service location for lhe young men to register. So. Barry County designated lhe county clerk’s office and the township offices. World War 11 was moving closer to home, and Dr. Russell Seibert talked to the Rotary Club about Adolf Hiller and how he sought to destroy liberty. Condition of the Michigan Avenue bridge was reported in the Oct. 17 Banner. i\ studyon lhe bridge determined it was more than 40 years old and not constructed for bus or truck traffic. Problems with the bridge being too narrow for the heavier traffic to turn also w ere cited. [It took more than eight years to build lhe bridge. Walton added. That bridge vvas replaced and the sireel widened slightly in 2012.1 The county road commission in its annual report told of black-topping and improving 10 miles of tow nship roads. The beagle trials ended in success, with the largest entry list in in the history of the club. '1’he most controversial bill being discussed in Lansing was the Civil Service legislation for state employees. Rep. Ellis Faulkner of Delton was against it. He felt it was wrong to fix any hours and deny the boss the right to discharge lhe employee. It passed without his approval. The county board received 1,200 names on petitions asking for the fireproof building al Charlton Park. In other business, the supervisors were commended for paying to pave the Yankee Springs road. News in lhe final week in October was lhe annual citywide children’s Halloween party, sponsored by the Commercial Club. Among the activities was the soap painting of downtown windows that were to be judged by a committee. During lhe parade, a judging committee of local businessmen selected the most outstanding costumes and awarded prizes. American Legion Post 45 also announced its Armistice Day parade. ’Hie news taking up most of lhe paper was the listing of approximately 1 ,()(X) young men for lhe draft and their draft numbers, as drawn. The paper, in lhe first week of November, announced that Royal Coach, a new business in town that manufactured travel trailers, was now employing 35 people. The City of Hastings reported 20 blocks or 1 • « miles, of black top. along with curb am] gutter, were done. It projected the same amount to be completed in 1941. Armistice Day plans were completed for Nov. 11. All veterans, Women’s Relief Corns and one Civil War veteran, T.O. Webber* along with the Boy Scouts. Camplire Gn|s’ the junior and senior high bands were to march from the county garage (now nlv. cit garage on the corner of Boltw<xxJ and St- • streets) lo Central Auditorium. There address by Kim Sigler would cap the event ” Flections were conducted in Novcmbe 1940, and the headlines reported: ”Wi||^ and Dickinson trail in the state; Barry CUUnl* solid Republican.’’ Buried in the neWs * “Roosevelt wins third term.” Hastings citizens voted for a nonpartisan city election and got rid ol the Democrat and Republican labels lor city business. Under the “50 years ago” headline was this | J890| tidbit: “A new roof has been put on w hat is called the courthouse. The roof cost more than the building is worth.” l he Nov. 14 issue announced the convening of circuit court with "no criminal cases, and the usual number of divorces.” 'lhe Ag-HE exposition opened in the Hastings High School gjm. Young men with dealt numbers I-50 were sent questionnaires by the draft board. fhe gearing up for war also affected the development and improvement of the road systems. M-37 between Middleville and the Kent Count) line was considered valuable because the road connected Battle Creek and Grand Rapids, Battle Creek haying Camp Custer, an Army base, jj^arliclc. called the motorway a "military toady'• • ••••< •' Rain disrupted the Armistice Day parade, but the program was conducted in Central Auditorium, as planned. [Known as the Armistice Day Storm, conditions were far worse over Lake Michigan, in which three freighters sank.] “Letters from the Front” became a byline feature of the paper, publishing letters from local people living overseas and part of the war in progress. The Nov. 21. 1940. Banner announced that only 69 aliens had registered with the post office under a new law- requiring all foreigners to be registered so the government would know where they lived. Part of this was the fear that these people would harm citizens of the United States. The city decided to honor the first two men called up for the draft. A parade exactly like the one set up for Armistice Day was to be held with a speaker and a proper ceremony. Archie McDonald announced his candidacy for circuit judge in Barry and Eaton counties. He said he was doing so because Judge I Russell] Me Peek had definitely stated he would not run again. A huge storm ripped through Southwest Michigan, and the W indstomi Company [now Hastings Mutual Insurance Company] processed more than 10,000 claims. An Allegan County rural school with children still inside was destroyed by the storm. The Kellogg Foundation stepped in and sent the children to Clear Lake near Dowling to camp and have school there until other arrangements could be made. The end of November brought Christinas into the news. Plans lor Christmas decorations on downtown streets were made. But even this cheery time of year Was damaged by lhe sending off to the service Barr)’ County’s first two draft choices: Clifford Tousley’[19161978] of Woodland and Donald Widrig [1918­ 1998] of Hastings. l he State Conservation Department [now lhe DNR] announced public hunting on 3,291 acres of land in Barry County. More acres were being readied tor tuiure years. fhe Banner in December 1940 annoUnced Marriage f'icci i-s-p.sI -X \llen Renting'1- Hastings and Karen ....... • BcUevue and that F..W. Bliss would add 100 feet to the length of its factory and cover it with porcelain-faced brick to match the rest of the building. Downtown merchants decorated their windows for Christmas and had a contest. Each w indow held one object with a number on it. People were to guess the total prices of all lhe items marked in the various windows. ’I'he winner was to be given $10 [about $175 in 20201. Col. Emil Tydcn was decorated with the Royal Order by the King of Sweden, the Dec. 12 Banner announced. Tyden was honored for his help in establishing the Swedish-American Museum in Philadelphia. A name change was in order for the Commercial Club. Starting lhe first of the new- year, the Commercial Club was lo become the chamber of commerce. The International Order of Foresters planned its annual children’s Christmas party t for Dec. 23. A free movie and treats al the Odd Fellows Hall were the highlights. Santa Claus’ arrival was announced: He would arrive on the 1:36 p.m. train. The annual teacher’s Christmas carol program was announced, with Supt. David Van Buskirk leading. A new organization was announced, the Barry County Tourist and Resort Association. Its directors were lo be Roman Feldpausch, Financial Vem Leary', Ralph Hess, Tom Perry, (Middleville) L.E. Hines (Woodland), Ellis Faulkner (Delton). Dr. [Herbert] Wedel (Freeport) and Ted Reid from Thomapple Lake. The Dec. 19 issue told about plans for Christmas baskets and lhat the Red Cross had exceeded its quota. An interesting item was the announcement that the city police would no longer pick up personal mail from the coffee shop and deliver it to the train. It seems that, as a service for the business community, lhe police would pick up mail left after 5 pan. at the coffee shop and deliver it to lhe 7 p.m. train. Personal mail began to be mixed in with the business mail, and soon 500 pieces of mail had to be sorted by the police and mailed. A stop was put to this practice. Little news was reported in the Dec. 26 Banner. But among news items was notice of a cable from Michael McPharlin. who had joined lhe Royal Canadian Air Force and was serving in Great Britain [McPharlin survived one plane crash, but not the war]. The Banner announced its sixth annual baby contest to honor the first baby bom in the new year. Previous babies bom were: 1936. Hazel Kidder, 1937, Patrick Taffee; 1938, Janet Thaler, 1939, Donald Falconer, and 1940, Joseph Blair. And that ends lhe local news of 1940. FOCUS Provided by the Barry County offices of Edward Jones Brandon Wilkins Member SIPC 307 L Green St, Ste. 1 Kevin Beck, AAMS® 400 V/. State St, Suite B Hastings, Ml 49058 Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 945-4702 (269) 948-2003 Time for New Year’s financial resolutions Many of us probably felt that 2020 lasted a very long time. But now that 2021 is upon us, we can make a fresh start - and one way to do that is to make some New Year’s resolutions. Of course, you can make these resolutions for all parts of your life - phys­ ical, emotional, intellectual but have you ever considered some financial resolutions? Here are a few such resolu­ tions to consider: • Don’t overreact (0 events. When lhe coronavirus pandemic hit in mid-Fcbruary, the financial markets took a big hit. Many people, con­ vinced that vve were in for a prolonged slump, decided to lake a ‘‘time out” anjl headed to lhe investment sidelines. But it didn’t take long for the markets to rally, rewarding those patient investors who stayed the course. Nothing is a certainty in lhe investment world, but the events of 2020 followed a familiar historical pattern: major crisis followed by market drop followed by strong recovery. The lesson for investors? Don’t overre­ act to today’s news because tomorrow may look quite dif­ ferent. • Be prepared. At the be­ ginning of 2020, nobody was anticipating a worldwide pan­ demic and its terrible conse­ quences, belli to individuals’ health and to their economic well-being. None of us can foretell the future, either, but wc can be prepared, and one way to do so is by building an emergency fund. Ideally, such a fund should be kept in liquid, low-risk vehicles and contain al least six months’ worth of living expenses. • Focus on moves you can control. In response lo pan­ demic-related economic pres­ sures, some employers cut their matching contributions to 401 (k) plans in 2020. Will some future event cause an­ other such reduction? No one knows - and even if it hap­ pens there’s probably nothing you can do about it. Instead of worrying about things you can’t control, focus on those you can. When it comes to your 401(k) or similar em­ ployer-sponsored retirement plan, put in as much as you can afford this year, and it your salary goes up, increase your contribution. • Recognize jour abili­ ty to build savings. During the pandemic, the personal savings rate shot up, hitting a record of 33% in April, ac­ cording to the U.S. Bureau of Economy Analysis. It te.I over lire next several months. but still remained about twice as high as the rate of die past few years. Of course, much of this surge in Americans’ proclivity to save money was due to our lack of options for spending it, as the coronavirus caused either complete or par­ tial shutdowns in physical re­ tail establishments, as well as dining and entertainment ven­ ues. But if you did manage to boost your own personal sav­ ings when your spending was constrained, is it possible to remain a good saver when re­ strictions are lifted? Probably. And the greater your savings, lhe greater your financial f ree­ doms - including the freedom to invest and freedom from excessive debt. When wc reach a post-pandemic world, six- ifyou can continue saving more than you did in previous years - and use your savings wisely. These aren’t the only finan­ cial resolutions >ou can make - but following them may help vou develop habits tliat could benefit you in 2021 and beyond. 7/:S article laitten by Edward Jones fur u\e by local Edw ard Jones Financial Advisor. EAun/ Jones. Mernb SIPC r �P’0« 8 - Thursday. <»«*" 3 h 2020 - The Hastings Banner ‘His eyes were soulless/ witness says Jydge tells courtroom Jon Burnett will die mjjrjsonjQL two fiftt^egreejriurders and 33 other violent crimes ^RsON, continued said :!;ier^ncy Services Chief Randy yo,’si(|(.rjnn ’ lhink everything went well. Injuries, , MZe the fire. There was no Since V P^Pcrty was damaged." the vac;,ni L*tn. ^cclricity had been cut off to was a possibdj ^rc °^c*lds said arson . * Ab«ildinp Jik ,sn’1 Eoinp any P°Wcr Juid ?as 10 d Die H.•4 on *ts own," Eaton said. bcR‘tn an S‘ly Police Department C(J 2|-ve,r m Qnd ultimately arrestSochor. ° Hastings resident Keigan So I arson. whiX cbarRcd with third-degree years in prisonTT r sentence of »P to 10 the value of ” fine of up lo lhrcc ,imes officials said ° propcrty’ ,aw enforcement nccifon'whh'the^0' T'”’1 Socl,or in con’ ration to bum ^eged ar,on mclude: prepa­ ycars in nri? pr0^rt> ’which up to 10 out breakfr,?n:-?LU- IWO counts of cnTy wi,h' which r n? W,lh ln,ent 10 commit a crime, on. ICnns of up lo r,ve ycars m pris- Jon Burnett, 64, of Orangeville Township, during his sentencing in October. (File photo) 'Diylor Owens Staff Writer Jon Burnett will spend the rest of his life in prison for the murders of Gary Peake and Bryce DeGood. The 64-year-old Orangeville Township man was sentenced in October by Barry County Judge Michael Schipper to life in pris­ on without the possibility of parole for two counts of first-degree murder and the 33 other violent crimes he committed on June 21, 2019. Schipper said he sometimes struggles with deciding on a particular sentence, but this was not one of those times. "This is a no-brainer," the judge said. "This is very, very easy. I’m simply going to give him the max that I can give him on every­ thing. "How he dies in prison will be his choice - but he will die in prison." The long list of witnesses who saw Burnett before, during and after his rampage testified during the wcck-and-a-half trial. "His eyes were soulless," witness Amanda Nelson said, describing Bumett as she saw' him that day at his residence right before he attacked his wife, Lynne, who yelled at Nelson and three other women to flee the scene. Nelson said she did not know Lynne Bumett, but the tone in her voice w'as unmis­ takable. "I think if I heard anybody yell like that. I would know that it was danger," Nelson said. Bumett then went to the house of his neigh­ bor, 73-y ear-old Gary Peake, and shot him six times. After he left Peake’s house, he con­ Judge Michael Schipper gives advice to grieving family members. "You have to be careful with anger. It won’t help, and it can really get in the way of your life,” Schipper said, (file photo) fronted 21-year-old Bryce DeGood, who was walking lhe power lines for a tree senice company. Ttacy Schisser and her son Garrett arrived at the intersection of Lewis and Lindsey roads a short while later. When their vehicle came to a stop, Tracy Schisser said she saw DeGood, standing by the road, facing her car. with Bumett right behind him. She saw Burnett’s hand reach up, inches from DeGood’s back and said she heard two gunshots. DeGood fell fonvard. onto his stomach. She saw* Bumett saying something, but she couldn’t hear what it was. "I said to my son: ‘That man just shot that boy.’ ’’ Schisser testified. She told jurors she heard one more shot, and DeGood got back up. He immediately put his hands up, she recalled. Ttacy Schisser described how Bumett had leaned to the side, and looked at them in the car. She couldn’t see a gun, but she believed that he pointed was pointing one at her and her son. Her son yelled at her to drive, and she hit the gas and fled from the scene. Daniel Robinson said he stopped his vehi­ cle when he saw' DeGood’s body by lhe side of lhe road. He had four of his grandchildren in lhe vehicle with him, all of whom were under the age of 10. He saw DeGood’s body, and want­ ed to help, but Bumett wouldn’t let him, Robinson said. Bumett approached the driver’s side of the vehicle and held the gun inside the front and back windows, pointing it at Robinson and his grandchildren. RUTLAND CHARTER TOWNSHIP 2461 Heath Rd Hastings, Ml 49058 (269) 948-2194 The following meetings for the month of January will be held electronically. Planning Commission Zoom Meeting January 6.2021 7:00pm Township Board Zoom Meeting January 13, 2021 7:00pm To join the electronic meetings, please visit the township webpage at v/wv/.rutlandiQwnship.org for detailed instructions. CITY OF HASTINGS 153260 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING MICHIGAN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FUNDING FOR GALLERY SUITES The City o* Hastings will conduct a public hearing on January 11, 2021 at 7:00 PM location to be determined for the purpose of affording citizens an opportuniiv to examine and submit comments on the proposed application to the Michigan Prnnomic Development Corporation (MEDC) for a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for Gallery Suites at 205 S. Jefferson St. ritv of Hastings proposes to use $227,582 CDBG funds with a minimum of 970 in private funding, for a combined total project cost of $321,861 to con­ .m th ee apartments of which two apartments, or 67% of the project, will struct m hModerate income persons. Zero persons will be displaced as a T. S o“.P»P»“d Mrmation. including a copy of the City of Hastings’ community develFurther informal.“ ■ 0G application is available for review. To inspect the docopment plan ano v Dan Kjng CorTlrnunity Development Director at 201 E uments, Ple?s® “<. Ml 49058 by calling 269-945-2468 or email at dkinora State St., Has, r9nmments may be submitted in writing through 5:00 PM on bastings®**319' 11 2021 or made in person at the public hearing. Monday January • . .. currently administering one CDBG project, and successThe City o'.HaS^o previous'renta! rehab grants m 2009 and 2015. on th0 proposed application are welcome. fully administers neccssary aids and services for persons Citizen views and c The kids were screaming, but Burnett said nothing and Robinson said nothing. "I thought he was going to shoot us," Robinson said. Slowly, he drove away. Gary and Noah Harps testified that they saw DeGood’s body and stopped lo see if they could help. They had just passed a man, who they believed was Bumett. standing in the road. He reached down and picked something up. Il looked like a piece of black metal, 3 to 4 inches long, Noah Harps said. Her husband got oul of the car to check on DeGood. "He’s nol breathing," Gary Harps recalled telling his wife. Bumett came toward them and started yell­ ing. Al first they couldn’t hear him. but even­ tually something was clear. "Get back in the car or I’ll shoot you, too," both of them recalled Bumett saying. "Did you believe him?" Prosecuting Attorney Julie Nakfoor Pratt asked. "When the shots went off? Yes, I believed him," Noah Haqis said. Bumett shot four times, the couple testi­ fied, but Noah Harps said he didn’t believe lhat Bumett w as aiming at them. He was close to the vehicle, but no bullets hit the car. Bumett eventually testified in his own self-defense. He o&imed to have large gaps in his memory, but insisted both Peake and DeGood had attacked him first. During direct examination, defense attor­ ney Gordon Shane McNeill asked Bumett if he was sorry about the shootings. "Very sorry," Bumett said. "Do you understand why any of this hap­ pened?" McNeill asked. Bumett replied, "Absolutely not." Audio captured by the police when Bumett was arrested was played during the trial. "I shot two people." Bumett could be heard saying. "Gary’s dead, I told you lhat a half hour ago" "1 shot him in the face." During the sentencing, friends and family of the victims had their chance lo tell the judge how Burnett’s actions had impacted them. Several relatives of DeGood testified. "Bryce Nathan DeGood came into this world on 2-17-1998," his mother LeAnne said, with tears in her eyes. "I felt the moment we brought him home that our family was complete. On 6-21-2019, for reasons I will never understand, Jon Bumett took him away from us and left a huge hole, not only in our family, but in the hearts of his extended fami­ ly and friends as wdl." "Bryce was a stranger to Jon and not a threat to anyone," LeAnne DeGood contin­ ued. "He was only there to do the job he loved. I could never convey in words lhe pain that we will have to live with for the rest of our lives. I will never net another hug or an ‘I love you.”’ b She told Judge Schipper *he lives with the thought that she did not have her daily hug with her son that morning, l*:caus': his ?“ were full of tools She still wonders whether he still would have been in the wrong place at the wrong time, if stlt. had let him sleep in a bit later that day She also thanked each of'he*h° Slopped at the crime scene and tried to help. “W'know how d fficul. <his has been for you, ’ she said. -But know you *«« “ <or Bryce since 1“ *oU d not speak for him­ self, and (you | । fference. We appreciand Wing y°“ in *he nU”n,:nl 10 ,r> and help Bry ce “And for thk still wondering, ‘What if?’ or wiX hfodsighl you could havc Jone momhtn1B ^member there is only one plc‘‘S h|c for our lo*-And you did the t"t vSP°neoulJ n the moment, ,ta-d’for,nan>’ the threat you fn„ ? i Keigan Sochor, 21, of Has ihird-degree arson charges in Royal Coach fire. (File photo) ■ <f Community Foundation, which had planned, a sen.™ S?id.S,<x:hor also has been chaiged in SenHl '"7^"'alleEcd ,o have •uken place to redevelop it. ,. Ia Bonnie Gettys, BCF CEO/executive direc­ crim. ’ \ US’n® a comPutcr lo commit a nme, and unlawfully driving away from the tor. said lhe foundation still intends to develop >ccne of a crime. the property into housing, but the project A probable cause hearing for Sochor has which had been based on the historic structure been delayed while he undergoes a psycho­ — would have to be changed. . “Doing something from scratch and doing logical examination to determine if he is com­ petent to stand trial. it new is certainly easier," she said. "But theJ* Bany County Prosecutor Julie Nakfoor beauty of lhe architecture of that building, and >Tati said charges have been considered how incredibly beautiful the anticipated proj; against three other individuals in connection ect was, has been lost." to the break-in. but a decision whether lo "At the end of the day," Gettys added, ‘‘it's-1 ’ bricks and mortar. No lives were lost. Nobody prosecute them has nol yet been made. The building was owned by the Barry got hurt." SHERIFF, continued from page 1-------- ’ In May, Leaf spoke at a rally in Rosa Parks Circle in Grand Rapids lo protest Whitmer’s stay-at-home orders. ?\n article about the rally, along with a photo of Leaf with Null by his side at the event, was published on lhe front page of the May 21 Hastings Banner. Leaf faced criticism from Nessel. the Michigan Sheriff’s Association. Barry County Prosecutor Julie Nakfoor Pratt, among others, along with calls for his resignation after com­ ments he made on TV following the arrests. Leaf was asked if he had any regrets about sharing the stage with a man who was subse­ quently charged in an alleged plot to kidnap the governor. "It’s just a charge,” Leaf replied. “And they say a ‘plot to kidnap’ and you got to remem­ ber that. "Arc they try ing to kidnap? Because a lot of people are angry with the governor, and they want her arrested. So are they trying lo arrest or was it a kidnap attempt? Because you can still, in Michigan, if it’s a felony, make a felony arrest." A few days after that, Nessel commented on Twitter about Leaf’s statements: "As Michigan’s top law enforcement offi­ cial, let me make this abundantly clear - per­ sons who are not sworn, licensed members of a law enforcement agency cannot and should not ‘arrest’ government officials with whom they have disagreements," she wrote. "These comments are dangerous." A representative from Nessel's office told The Banner that the law Leaf cited on camera - Michigan Compiled Law 764.16 - was nol intended to empower citizens to arrest anyone at will - and it has been significantly limited by a state Supreme Court decision in 2002. “One of the things the Court specifically stated in its decision was: ‘[t]he statute does nol grant arrest authority where the other has not [actually] committed a felony even if the private person has probable cause to believe the other has committed a felony.’ "Essentially, the Court found that a private person simply does not have lhe same broad arrest powers as does a law enforcement offi­ cer." Leaf later told The Banner he did not cite that law to defend the men’s actions, but to figure out what their thought process might have been. “1 quoted it because it was the first thing that came to my head," Leaf said. "I wasn’t trying to say it was OK to make an arrest on that.’’ He also spoke to TV reporter a second time, the next week. “I don’t want anybody to think I’m sympa­ thetic toward these charges, right? These areJ’ very, very serious charges." Leaf said. "What I don t want is I don’t want us to be trying it*1* in lhe media and we mess it up in the justicel* system somewhere, ‘cause they can’t get d‘r fair trial. 4* "It’s very important that we nol mess any of" this up ‘cause one little technicality and maybe it goes out lhe door, and we need to b<' very, very’ cautious of that." -f The Michigan Sheriff’s Association con-'0 demned Leaf’s statements. Barry County Prosecutor Julie NakfoorPratt also issued a press release on Leaf’s'^' comments. >rtT "Sheriff Leaf is not a lawyer, nor is he licensed to practice law in the State of Michigan, yet he inaccurately cited a law that6 is inapplicable and is meant to aid the v?ry v citizens and law enforcement he is sworn t&1 protect,” Pratt wrote. "As a prosecutor, I find this concerning. u‘‘ "There is no logical, legal or ethical basis*• for statements that defend or condone behav­ ior that threatens the safety of Gov. Whitmer^ fellow law enforcement, or any other citizen ' in this country." 'J' In lhe days that followed, the Barry County" Sheriff’s Office and other local agencies f‘ received phone calls from people criticizing] Leaf. Some people called him a "terrorisf' sympathizer." The sheriff’s office Facebook page, and’Dar Leaf’s personal page, had to be taken ' down after the influx of angry messages. ‘'' On Dec. 13, after a protest of Michigan*1’ Department of Health and Humane Service/'] orders to close local restaurants to in-petson “ dining, which took place on lhe Barry County Courthouse lawn, Leaf brought up the state’s" case against the Null brothers. "There’s so much information being leaked out about those Null boys." Leaf told The Banner. "They’re out (of jail). , "If they’re such terrorists - you don’t bond , out terrorists. But they (the stale) were 1^*,; ing. They were leaking so much information / about that case. That’s a crime. Finally. tW attorneys had to get a gag order on the , Attorney General’s office." , "Thai’s my point is - people don’t under­ stand - there is a limit on all that stun, a added. “People just don’t understand that, me government is limited." „1 Reports confirmed that the Null ' . attorneys asked Antrim County Judge. i Stepka to issue a gag order on J? about the case from the attorney * office - and lhat request was denied. Help us plan for Rutland future! Plcatc take this confidential online survoy provide u opinions by MvmUy Idnudry 1, 2021 at ll:5?p,s4 Harden «s ' , . iiAl Heath Roac. to picked up at Rutland Township Hail, located at 2« fill out at your convenience will always hav s our heart5She finished by .Kg each of."* or TDD call reW serv City of Hastings Jane M. Saurman, https://www.surveymonkey-corr,/r/ZS7^^773 ____ __________________ _______________ -— ^7»77.Tnforniat»on. please The link to the online survey and for visit: __________ ___ c)ork ______ 4,5329| �, . dbc^3>.202°--P^^ , rnursday* M The Hastings 0 ‘nnO _ lhatwa^int^nded 'o^nd lhe pita's "°is.a.key Pad I i-SI 'he commissioners' mast^ was rejected by voters in lhe Nov. 3 election. (File ph<”°' ^Doctor ’ Universe 'h° $25 _ Jail question queued up for next county commission Rebecca Herve Editor ' Barry County’s aging jail may require a financial infusion to address infrastructure issues but. at this point, the source will not be a tnx levy. Residents rejected that idea on Nov 3 in •. 18.930-13390 vote. a i A margin of more than 5300 votes - p|us 3337 who chose nol to vote on the question at all - denied a request lo issue general obliga­ tion unlimited lax bonds of up to $25 million for a maximum of 26 years to pay for design­ ing, engineering and building a new couiitv jail and sheriff’s offices. y The request, if approved by voters. would have funded construction of a 110-bed facility that could ultimately expand to 166 beds. The county paid consultant TowerPinkstcr $70,000. primarily for its architectural exper­ tise, but $20XXX) was tacked on to that bill after commissioners added contract language lhat required an assessment of unused space at existing county facilities. Then, later, commissioners said the cost for campaign services to educate voters about the jail request was part of their budget with TowerPinkstcr. Originally, the jail question was intended for the August primary ballot. But, in the spring, when alarm was raised about the looming COVID-19 crisis and its financial impact on the community, commis­ sioners delayed approving lhe language. Then, in June, they went ahead with language for the Nov. 3 ballot. The levy would have generated an estimat­ ed 0.1722 mill in lhe first year and an average of 0.4501 mill in subsequent years until the bonds were retired. A resident owning proper­ ty with a taxable value of $50,000 would pay $8.61 the first year, and $2231 per year thereafter until the bonds are retired, accord­ ing to lhe request. In five separate precincts, more than 1.000 voters cast no votes, with the highest margin of.no votes being cast in Prairieville Tow nship with 1,131. followed by Irving Township with 1^04. It was rejected in 23 of 24 precincts in lhe city of Hastings with only the Hurd Ward passing the proposal by 13 voles, 402-389. Commissioners had kept a variety of oplions open: The county could have demol­ ished the existing facility and constructed a new jail and sheriff’s office on lhe existing site; or it could have acquired property for lhe project; or it could have acquired a site and renovated an existing building for a jail and sheriff’s office. • The gpal, they said, was. .to provide enhanced security and safely measures and systems; additional needed capacity; improved and updated HVAC and mechanical systems; improved space for inmate processing; accommodations for offices, and space for information technology systems. The final decision on which oplion lo go with would have been made after voters approved lhe request. And that’s what may have tripped up the proposal, some said. In October, prior to the election, commis­ sioners were blasted by for mishandling the project on the heels of a vote of "no confi­ dence” from the Nashville Village Council. Village council members discussed the cam­ paign and agreed that commissioners had failed to inform citizens about the proposed location and planned expenditures for lhe Pr Jod Ibbotson of Rutland Township enlarged on that criticism during a regular county boaid meeting that took place in person in October at Leason Sharpe Hall in the Barry c ommunity Enrichment Center. Jbotson referred to comments by Nashville village trustee Johnny Hartwell ai lhe village meeting, when Hartwell criticized Commissioner Ben Geiger, R-Nashvillc, for saying Sheriff Dar Leaf might have hurt their chances for voters to approve lhe jail millage request. The reference was to Leaf’s presence on a stage during a rally in Grand Rapids in May with William Null of Shelbyville, which attracted public attention. Then, after Null was charged as part of state and federal inves­ tigations into alleged acts of terrorism, includ­ ing a plan to kidnap Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, his comments to a TV reporter, in which Sheriff Leaf speculated what might have motivated that behavior, drew condemnation from local and state authorities. "No. Dar Leaf did not hurt our chances,” Ibbotson told commissioners. “The informa­ tion {on the tax request) is not oul to the citi­ zens. I have to agree with this {comment by Hartwell). This information that we’re getting is thal this jail is only going to cost us $25 million - us the taxpayers. I But) lhe county’s own estimate is that this will cost S42.2 mil­ lion. This is information that is critical to lhe taxpayer. We feel like we’re not getting the entire story ” "The commissioners knew that lhe climate for a millage was nol that great in Barry County, considering the history with the school district,” he added. “And, if - or as I might say - when this fails. I think it’s time for this county to consider doing what Wexford County did. and quit kicking the can down the road. “Let’s gel a jail. Let’s build it. And let’s protect our officers. Let’s protect the inmates. Let’s make sure that Sheriff Leaf can fulfill his responsibilities, as the Constitution requires, which means that this board needs to gel a jail for Barry County.” Ibbotson later told lite Hastings Banner that Wexford County built a new jail without a millage levy. Instead, it took oul a conven­ tional loan which it then paid back through its general fund. This oplion had been pitched lo lhe county board in the past, he said, but was not considered financially feasible. County Administrator Michael Brown con­ firmed that lhe idea is not financially feasible because the circumstances in Wexford County are not comparable to Barry County. “It’s my understanding that Wexford County had a significant outlay in general funds because they had to rent beds.” Brown said. “It got to the point that the amount they spent on renting was equivalent to a debt pay­ ment That is not the.case here.” .. Wexford County’s jail was small al thal lime. Brown explained, and the number of beds that had to be rented became so great thal. when a conventional loan was taken out, the rental costs could just be diverted into the county’s debt payment. Commissioners also held several closed- “"S3. J5SE! Dr. I Jniverse: I low man} black holes arc in the galaxy and lhe universe? Krisha. 9, New Jersey SK Commissioner n Conner. R-Shelbyville. said ■ I necessary. the county could chrxise to bu d ;1 new faci|ity on the site where Ute 5“^nt J»d Slls t0 snvc money on land acqutsi • ••It's not tny decision, it that s a thought." Conner said. "We’ve got 'hat property. Ixt's just go ahead. That was what the plan was when we did the master facility p|an< anc| We would be in line with thab “I was really hopeful that this would pass because our jail is in shape," she said. “We were cited once (by the state) because of ihc way the prisoners were housed, regarding space. Sheriff Leaf had to write an action plan to address thal. They realize we have an aging jail.” ... Conner said she expects the jail issue w ill be a high priority item when a new county board lakes office next } ear. "During our [recent) budget workshop. 1 made the statement - and I’m sticking to it - I’m not voting to increase any non-mandatcd programs until we get this jail situation figured out, and [wc have) a new jail either in the plans or approved or in the works or a millage is passed,” she said. “I’m not increas­ ing any non-mandated services,’’ Commissioner Jon Smelker, R-Freeport, called the outcome “disappointing, but it was no big surprise,” given the challenges present­ ed by COVID. “We’ll have lo look al it and see what we can do better on the next propos­ al,” he said. In the meantime, commissioners have approved in the 2021 budget lhe costs of six projects totaling S27830Q— nol including a new problem brought lo dlcir attention in November - $20,750 to fix an electronic access control system - to address problems in and around lhe jail. Those projects include: • $177,000 for parking lot replacement; • $75XXX) to install partitions in the large inmate multipurpose room and add a hallway; • $10,000 for property room relocation and expansion along with a second video arraign­ ment room; • $7300 to replace porcelain sinks, toilet . anc| urinal with stainless steel fixtures in the west unit of the jail; • $5,000 for the installation of security screens for the windows in the work-release cells; • and $4,000 to replace the HVAC unit in the jail control room to provide climate con­ trol. Commissioners to convene first session of the year on Jan. 4 The Barry County Jail and what should be done about it will be the work of the next board of county commissioners, which will get started with an organizational meeting via Zoom at 9 a.m. Monday, Jan. 4. At that lime, commissioners will elect a new chairperson, vice chairperson, adopt board roles, appoint committees and sched­ ule meetings for the year. New commissioners are Catherine Getty. R-Middleville. who will replace Dan Parker in District 2; and Bruce Campbell, R-Dowling, who will replace Heather Wing in District 7. Incumbents returning are: Howard Gibson, R-Hastings. David Jackson, R-Delton; Jon Smelker. R- Freeport. Ben ge\gcr R-Nashville, and Vivian Conner. R-Shelbyville. City Council extends outdoor dining Sophie Bates Sopbie aqwiv Staff Writer . Rulings eny Cwijsl> onJiwmx, which of lhe city s sidewalk dm g prohibits any outdoor d.n.ngdunni-in months. । .jp restaurants The change was made to <)f Hca)t|) Wmply with Michigan P j(| )r0Vlj. tad Human .Services order> ^"housc ^inillg. mg patrons opportunitie use of *This is coming t . Michigan ‘he extension of the or auinan Services I Department of Health • creative on *hich is causing restaurafor their how they can Provlde . Czarnecki said. Petrous." City Manager Jerry , bul The MDHHS orders hah "’j ^,$(wncrs in r ‘How restaurants to sen *■ canopies and <Mdoor structures such a.s tuns. ‘Sloos. , . |,irrv community c "Fortunately, through he t»County foundation, a generous dorur n agreed to provide lhese fc Numbering the black holes ,hc su(e order allows to be utilized with is our last ditch effort to try lo hcI h h rectnnmntc ” rvnrtvrki . ..... •'-*** these restaurants," Czarnecki cnU said. “This open. And when we talked to (h* e “rc stauranls donor has agreed to provide these in restau­ association, they really felt that the restaurants rants through Barry County, and some of won’t be opening to full capacity until some­ those are in the city of Hastings. They’re still time in September. And so we ve to do some­ working through the details and all of that, so thing to allow’ them to get their employees this is kind of opening it up so that once all of back to work.” these things fall into place, this is already jn The resolution passe* * with unanimous place so that if restaurants want to participate approval and council requested city staff pro­ in that and provide this opportunity to have vide plans regarding the s ructures and snow­ die outdoor dining with these igloos, we’re removal al the next meeting. prepared for it." Jn other news. L The resolution was met with some resis­ Approved Mayor D-‘v Java’s appoint tance by council members who wanted more merit of Lynn Denton to ule plunning details on how- the expansion of outdoor side­ Commission effectivt ‘ • walk dining through lhe winter would impact Approved a five-yt ar - merge,Icy Shelter other city mutters such as snow removal. Contract between the £ > Hastings and Barry Community Foundation President Green Gables Haven । n — a community Bonnie Gettys addressed these concerns and shelter for victims of dom(.sllc Vlojencc asked council to adopt lhe resolution due |o the urgent situation some downtown restau­ W<&t '^public lKarin8 !nten]li"iUC W“h Community De^S. J^.'st tor'" rants are currently in. •‘We've got restaurants lhat are hanging On a thread as it is right now,” Gettys said. Dear Krisha, While we can’t see black holes with our eyes, astronomers h:A'e figured out how to find these objects in our universe. One astronomer who is really curious about understanding black holes is my friend Sukanta Bose, a researcher at Washington State University. First, he told me there are different kinds of black holes. Supermassive black holes can be millions to billions of limes the mass of the Sun. We have a supermassive black hole in our own Milky Way galaxy called Sagittarius A*, which is pronounced as Sagittarius A-star. Scientists think supermassive black holes may be found in the center of most large galaxies. If you are anything like me. you might be wondering: why not just count all the different galaxies to find the number of black holes? “Of course, we cannot see every galaxy.” Bose said. “We see many galaxies that are closer because they are brighter.” For galaxies that are farther away, you have to use very powerful telescopes, he added. That also means we have to make an inference about the number of galaxies in the universe. An inference is an educated guess based on evidence and current knowledge about how things work. Using telescopes, math and their inference skills, astronomers estimate there are hundreds of billions of galaxies and likely hundreds of billions of supermassive black holes— and that’s just in the observable universe. Another kind of black hole sometimes forms after a .star dies and collapses in on itself. Bose said. We call these stellar mass black holes. Hie Sun is a star. but it is Mr^fta'rs become a black hole. Onl) ‘* stellar make black holes. When it comes (e mass black holes, astronomers «- “ there are 10 million to I billion rig ’ v the Milky Way galaxy. . On lhe hunt for these massive oDJtc"’ scientists often look for different interaclio among stars or gases, clues that a black to c may be in the neighborhood. For instance, when a black hole and a companion star are in a tight orbit, their interaction can sometimes create highenergy light wc can’t see but scientists can detect with their high-tech tools. “When you open a new way of probing the universe, you see objects that challenge your previous wisdom or theories.” Bose said. Bose and fellow researchers have been able to spot black holes because of a new way to detect gravitational waves. When two black holes collide, they can create a kind of wave lhat brings information to Earth about its source and helps us learn more about the universe. It’s a bit like listening for sound waves from particular instruments in an orchestra, Bose said. But instead of picking out the sound of a cello or a flute, they are listening for gravitational waves from those colliding black holes. Who knows, maybe one day you can help us learn more about black holes and discover ways lo help astronomers count them all. (Thanks to all our kid readers who voted for this question in our recent poll. Stay tuned for future polls al askDrUnixerse. wsu.edu.) Dr. Universe Do you have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. Send an email to Washington State University’s resident scientist and writer at Dr.Universe^ wsu edu or visit her websitq. askdrunis ersc.com. J^ewbom babies Henry Robert Ulrich, bom at Spectrum Health Pennock on December 9. 2020 lo Sophia Jean Ulrich and Gabriel Robert Ulrich Jr. of Delton. Kinzlee Mae Watson, born at Spectrum Health Pennock on December 13, 2020 to Andrea Watson and Kyle Watson of Hastings. TOWNSHIP OF PRAIRIEVILLE BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ORDINANCE ADOPTION TO* THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF PRAIRIEVILLE, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following is a summary' of Ordinance No. 171 which was adopted by the Prairieville Township Board al a regular meeting on December 23, 2020. ORDINANCE 171 ZONING ORDINANCE TEXT AMENDMENTS REGARDING RE-APPLICATION OR RECONSIDERATION AND ACCESSORY BUILDING PERMITTING SECTION 1 AMENIIMI NT TO ARTICLE IV. GENERAL PROVISIONS, ADDITION OlL^TTIO.NJ_L^- RE-APE! ICATION OR RECONSIDERATION FOR SIJJJ’JLAN REVIEW. This section was amended lo allow for resubmittal of certain land use applica­ tions after one year from the date of denial. SECTION 11 AMIiNTJMFNJjn AR^ FSStllOUHHLDJNtjS, This section amends die permitted location of an accessory building without a special land use permit in certain zoning districts. SlCWNUl APPLU9Xni:>H’ILOK6.. 1L-LRJ.zAPPlJCATI(:>N OJH<U‘ONSHO^ SEtk’JAl JI his section was amended to allow for resubmittal ol certain land use applications after one year Irom lhe dale of denial. SECTION IV SFWI-RABI I J.fY. The provisions of this Ordinance are severable. SEC I.IDN V Jll-.I’EAI .OJ1CONFI K J ING.ORDIN \NC I’S-J F) 1 All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. Dus < Irdmance Jiall take cftect eight (8) days alter its publication. PLEASE. TAKE. FURTHER NOTICE that the full text of the Ordinance has been posted in the Office of the Prairieville Township Clcrkat the address below and that a copy of the Ordinance may be purchased or inspected nt the Township Clerk’s office during regular business hours of regular working days following the date of this publication. PRAIRIEVILLE TOW NSHIP Rod Goebel. Clerk 10115 S. Norris Road Delton. Michigan 49046 (269)623-2664 �Family Farm and Home moves into former Kmart location Baum Family Surgery Center visitors are greeted by a lobby designed for corri or^ • Farm and Home has received a warm welcome from the Hastings community since it opened In the former Kmart location aI 802 W State SI. (File photo) Sophie Bates Staff Writer Th' former Kmart store at 802 W. State St. Closed »t the cnd of 2019 - and '?’* I~ali7’ is now home to a 30.000-square-foot Family Farm and Home store. The retailer, who is new to Hastings, opened in mid-October and received a warm welcome from the community — one that exceeded expectations, according to store manager Aron Blakemore. "The community support has been really, really good. It sounds like there’s a lot of peo­ ple lhat are happy we’re here and we’re happy to be here and serve the customers,” Blakemore said. “We’re in a really good loca­ tion and I think lhe community agrees with that, so they are really enjoying the products we have and prices we have.” The property has room for two more com­ mercial tenants and. while one has been iden­ tified, it has yet to be publicly announced. Hastings City Manager Jerry’ Czarnecki said the pandemic may have made it more difficult to move forward with new tenants. “I think it’s just in a stall right now,” Czarnecki said, “ah of the plans are still in place, they just haven’t moved forward.” Community Development Director Dan King said the new tenants are likely wellknown companies with recognizable names. “When Kmart closed, there were so many folks that had to g0 oul and get other employ­ ment," King said. ’’This will help. You know’, any employment rains will be helpful to the City of Hastings. ‘ “We’re excited — just like the whole com­ munity — for the announcements of lhe other tenants.” and functionality. Spectrum Health Pennock unveils million Baum Family Surgical Ceifito Remenap takes Thornapple Kellogg top spot after Blitchock steps dowra Sophie Bates Staff Writer ’The loss of Superintendent Dan Remenap during the pandemic was a gut punch for the Hastings Area School System after a series of COVID-19 related blows, ranging from staff shortages, difficulties with remote learning and changing guidelines. Remenap announced Nov. 23 that he w ould be resigning from Hastings less than a week after being offered the superintendent’s post at Thomapple Kellogg Schools. He was offered a three-year contract w ith a salary of SI60.000 in the first year. $171.000 the second year and $182,000 in the third ; year. He had been making SI30JD00 with Hastings. Thomapple Kellogg had been looking to fill the position ever since former Superintendent Rob Blitchok announced his Rob Blitchok surprised the community retirement, shocking the community, at a spe­ cial Thomapple Kellogg school board meet­ when he announced in September that he ing Sept. I. was resigning as Thornapple Kellogg "After careful consideration and thought, I superintendent. (File photo) have announced my retirement from educa­ tion as of Sept. 30. It’s simply time for me to sionate. creative teachers of our district. He be able to spend more time with my family. It missed oul on keeping promises lo the self­ has been an honor and a privilege to serve in less. caring, invested administrators he super­ this district the last seven years. I will be leav­ vised." wrote Melissa Patton, wife of board ing TK Schools with countless positive expe­ Trustee Dan Patton. riences and memories." Blitchok said in a Remenap recognized the community’s letter to families. anger and apologized. For Remenap. lhe Thomapple Kellogg post "The people who wrote letters have the is ultimately what will be best for his family, right to be angry," Remenap said at the board he said. meeting. "(But) I’m leaving with nothing but “It is with very’ mixed emotions that 1 write good things lo say about Hastings.” this letter informing you of my resignation, While he, too, expressed disappointment at effective on Dec. 23,2020. This decision was Remenap’s departure, school board President a very- difficult one for me. and this is nothing Luke Haywood said he hopes to continue I planned or saw coming,” Remenap wrote in working with Remenap in the future. his resignation letter. "Ultimately, this deci­ "We wish you all lhe best and will look sion is based on doing what is best for me and forward to collaborating with you over al my family. It is nothing more than that. TK,” Haywood said. “It is not personal. I am not unhappy in After Remenap’s announcement, lhe board Hastings, and I love lhe people with whom I appointed Assistant Superintendent of Student work with every day. and I love the Saxon Achievement Matt Goebel, who has been family." with the district for the past eight years, as Remenap’s resignation triggered expres­ interim superintendent until June 30. sions of disappointment, anger and sadness The board discussed Goebel’s qualifica­ within the community; some wrote letters to tions for lhe position al a special board meet­ lhe board. ing Nov. 20. after Remenap was offered the “By leaving after just a year in this posi­ Thomapple Kellogg post Nov. 17. tion. Mr. Remenap missed out on forming During lhat session, Haywood pointed out personal relationships with nearly 2.600 lhat he and several other board members amazing and unique students lhat make up received emails — including a letter from all Hastings Area Schools. He missed out on the HASS’s administrators and department investing in the dedicated, hardworking, pas- directors — supporting Goebel for the post. "A lot of the support is because he is well-rooted in lhe district, he knows our dis­ trict really well and, in a time of crisis, they arc looking for a known quantity." Haywood said. During Hastings’ last superintendent search, Goebel had interviewed for lhe posi­ tion, but was beat out by Remenap. However. Haywood said the district’s needs have changed since then. In the midst of the pandemic, the board wanted a stable replacement for Remenap who could ease the difficulty of this transi­ tion. An in-house interim - particularly one with knowledge of the district’s COVID responses thus far — was the obvious choice; and Gocta I met all the criteria. During the previous superintendent search, things in the world were much differ­ ent. Matt interviewed well, however, the board decided — with community input — to go a different direction." Haywood said at the Nov. 20 meeting. "Now with the COVID cri­ sis, we need consistency and Matt will pro­ To subscribe, call us a • vide that for us, and he is very qualified lo help fill position.” Goebel has sought a top post for the last several years, interviewing with Lakewood Public Schools, Grant Public Schools, Keep your friends and relatives informed and up to date with all the local news from Barry County. Send them... The Hastings Fifteen patient rooms — separated by walls rather than curtains — ensure patient privacy. Hastings Superintendent Dan Remenap announced Nov. 23 that he had accepted the superintendent’s post at Thornapple Kellogg. Wayland Union Schools. Allegan Public Schools and Bay City Public Schools. He said being offered the superintendent position al Hastings — even if only for the interim — is a dream come true for him. As assistant superintendent of student achievement, Goebel made $ 109,366. Another $7,617 was added to his salary for his extra duties as interim superintendent. Goebel’s first official day in his new role was Dec. 23; but he has been working with Remenap during the transition and kick-off to the school system’s second semester. Goebel sent a letter to Saxon families on Dec. 21 informing them that in-person classes would return on Jan. 6, after previously set­ ting Jan. 15 as the date for a return to in-per­ son learning. Remote learning remains an option for students. "Making sure our students and staff are safe is our No. 1 priority. We also understand that having our students in face-to-face learn­ ing is the best possible education we can provide." Goebel wrote to families. “We have made this decision after collaborating with the administration, Board of Education, Hastings Education Association. Hastings Educational Support Personnel Association and the bus driver’s leadership.” . . Goebel said the transition into his new role has been seamless thus far. r u t "Through the collaboration ol the staff, administration, and board, my irans't'on into lhe Interim Superintendent role has felt seam­ less •" he said. ••) fc«| e.urvntely comfo^ble tn this new role narticularly having estab­ lished relationship P cr the past seven and a half years. My ear y .volvement in devdop■ng strategies surrounding the C°Xton Jenuc has added to the smooth I am excited for the start ot semester, especial|y with our Plan face-to-face in,. 7 • - nnr staff has ix-tn working tireless!Separe for safe and effec- search,” Havwn g \ “We are try^.1 og 1 banner 269-945-9554 h,S P°hlU°n ifthcta>ard^,re;>- Sophie Bates Staff Writer Over lhe last two years, the Baum Family Surgical Center grew from a mere idea to a 19,000 square-foot building with state-of-theart facilities designed to maximize staff effi­ ciency and patient comfort. Tile center opent-d for its first procedures on Nov. 16 and Spectrum Health Pennock President Angela Ditmar said she has been overwhelmed with the positive feedback. “The new center is a huge staff- and patient-satisfier. They are so happy. 1 was just rounding on staff yesterday and one of the anesthesiologists gave the analogy that work­ ing in the new space is like riding in a well­ run Ferrari," Ditmar said. “Things are going wonderful. We have new' surgeons who have started along with the opening of the new' surgery center including a new orthopedic surgeon who specializes in sports medicine, Derek Axibal and Stephen Dequete who spe­ cializes in hand and plastic surgery, as well as Jason Stubbs the new car, nose and throat physician." However, due to rising COVID-19 cases in Barry- County, public tours to commemorate the facility’s opening were canceled. How-ever, Pennock released a video tour of the facility on Nov. 24, so the Hastings and wider com­ munity — which raised $4 million for lhe project’s capital campaign — could view the center. The other $8 million for the project came from Spectrum Health Pennock integration and Spectrum Health Pennock Foundation reserves, which each contributed approxi­ mately $4 million. Ditmar wanted the community to sec the new facility not only because of their dona­ tions, but because the center is designed with the comfort of community members and patients as its first priority. "This state-of-the-art design provides our patients to have front-door access; single rooms provide our patients with privacy that is desirable; our new surgical and endoscopy suites will allow us to continue to provide high-quality care through improved workflow and efficiency processes; our exit door that we call ’almost home’ allows them to exit through an area that is separate from where they entered." Surgical Services Manager Cheryl Sinclair said. "Il is all about lhe patient expe­ rience.” "Patients are really appreciative of the ‘almost home’ discharge area," Ditmar said. A drive-up entrance with heated sidewalks, private patient rooms, simplified check-in and -out and a streamlined prc-surgery process all aim to improve patient comfort al the center. Now, families can even stay with patients while they await surgery in the pre operalion room and during their operation. The center includes upgrades for Spectrum Health Pennock staff too, as it replaces the hospital’s former third-floor surgical center, parts of which date back to 1923. . C"hie, o» Staff and Surgeon Andrew Parsons sau limited space was one of the biggest issues caused by the outdated center, “h is not unusual to quit literally run out of space in the old OR rooms. With the patient and tad, anesthesia machine, anesthesia cart. Sl k? C operative instruments, the da Vinci robot, a c-arm and monitor, and five-to-10 stall memtars, plus all of the cords with each associated item, it’s not long before there is barely room to walk." Parsons said. The new' center remedies this with three new operating rooms — each 30 percent larg­ er than the former ORs — and two endoscopy rooms adjoined by a supply room. Before the new center, endosco­ pies were completed in the Wellness Center, across the street from the former surgical center. K",,p’■“ "As a team, we are looking forward to the wide open area lhe new surgical center pro­ vides us and our patients," Sinclair said. “I’m ecstatic lhat my team will all be in one space. Currently, my endoscopy team is in the Wellness Center across lhe parking lot from the main hospital and my surgical team is located al the hospital. By having my team all together, it will allow me increase my pres­ ence for all team members and allow us to have all resources available in one space which will improve efficiencies.” “It’s exciting to see staff be able to have such better experiences, as well as the patient," Ditmar said. . Director of the Spectrum Health Foundalidn Pennock Janine Dalman said she is grateful |o the Hastings and Bany' County communities for supporting this project and their generous donations. ! "We are very’ fortunate to live and work In a community thal believes in thought of hav­ ing the best local health care possible and is willing to invest in Spectrum Health Pennock through their gifts to Spectrum Health Foundation at Pennock." Dalman said. "Beirig part of a larger system means we have greater access to resources than we did as an indepen­ dent hospital. These shared resources between Spectrum Health and Spectrum Health Foundation are helping Pennock Hospital and our foundation continue to grow and support the health needs of our local community In even greater ways. “Thank you to our donors and contractop for making the Baum Family Surgery Center a reality." ——-------------- -------------------------- . ■ ......................... .......... —— i.i LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF MICHIGAN PROBATE COURT COUNTY OF BARRY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Decedent s Estate FILE NO. 20-28674-DE Estate of Bette Jean Thompson. Date of birth07/23/1945 TO ALL CREDITORS: NOTICE TO CREDITORS The decedent, Bette Jean Thompson, died 01/20/2010 Creditors u« the decedent are notified that aii claims against lhe estate w»H be forever barruri unless presented lo Michelle J Schwann©-Gn personal rapreeantabve. or to both tne probate enn ’ at 206 W Court Street. Hastings Ml 49058 and .h personal representative within 4 months after 3° date of publication of tnra notice irlQ Date: 12/2272020 ‘ Robert J Longstreet P53546 607 N Bronaway \ Hasbngs. Ml -19058 > (269) 945-3495 Michtdo J. Schwonneson J 700 AriebiH St. SW ’ Wyom'ng Ml 49509 ’ (616)550-5258 • 1s320O �dayDec8mb«'3'-202°-Pa"' Mi* isBannet ^Thursday. ThnHast^Bannor- • _ . Throat-slitting attack was first major jury trial during Tkylor Owens Stuff Writer ;. David Krebs II is serving eight to 15 years ’ in prison now after a Barr) County Circuit Court jury found him guilty in July of assault intent to commit great bodily harm in the <subbing of Anthony Collins. ' Judge Vicky Alspaugh handed down the j ’ sentence in September. r. According to testimony during the trial. kKrebs, 30, of Vermontville, slit lhe throat of Collins, 28. of Middleville, and stabbed him r. multiple times on Sept. 5, 2019. Collins was •pin the front passenger seat of a moving car. \ traveling on Barber Road, and Krebs was in Hhc back passenger seat, when the unprovoked Jeattack occurred. ; ’ Krebs said he was high on meth and LSD at the lime. r Collins testified there had been no alterca‘ tion leading up to lhe attack when Krebs r reached from behind, slit his throat and subbed him multiple times. As the car stopped. Collins ran to a nearby house and stumbled inside, where resident Jackie Hawkes wrapped towels around his neck and applied pressure to stop his bleeding, then called 911. •’I was standing at my dining room table and my back door burst open, and a gentle•w man ran in,1' Hawkes testified in B^ r ■ Circuit Court. "He was very hhxxf? $Ou.nl>’ his hand to his neck, and he waT^’ lc bad loudly, ‘Call 911” * Say,n? very "He was a little bit frantic lie wn mg blood everywhere. He had bhxxl driT*n’ oil of his clothes.*’ ®»pping A Spectrum Health Butterworth testified lhat. if Collins had not been tojimi almost immediately, he would have A broken tip of a steel blade was -,i from Collins’ ami by doctors. Urtl(ned Krebs testified that he had acted in self-de­ fense. It was lhe first major trial to take place in Barry County during lhe pandemic. Jun* selection took place al lhe Barry County Expo Center, and they were seated in the public area of the courtroom. The jury deliberated for eight hours, but did not find Krebs guilty of assault with intent to commit murder, which he was charged with. One juror, who spoke to the The Hastings Banner but asked lhat his name not be used, said the jury quickly arrived al a consensus that there had. at least, been an assault with intent to commit great bodily harm. They spent most of the deliberations discussing whether there had been an intent to commit murder. charge, he • . |x-licf of some of jIITnr? m“£- iuWrs lb’1 stniggI^Uy<’“couldset“"^ng<:isc^ ''“buUwo or 'h^ffen Unablc 10 aggs-s W“-ACsVX deliben>>io^went on. we were to lhePoint"b^wcre some'^on/that '1n According loAlspaUl:l,’s instructions, if the jury was unable to come to a consensus on lhe pr?iter charge of ,ntenl t0 ^mmil murder, Fhey were to move on to the lesser charge, which was intent to commit great bodily David Krebs II, 30, of Vermontville, on left, listens to proceedings in Barry Circuit Court. His attorney James Kinney is shown in foreground. (File photo) ou y , . •‘Ultimately, it was a unanimous decision, Thufs what a Juror (loeS ... harm. While it was a difficult process, the juror said, they worked through it. Broadband services get higher priority as federal funds allow for expansion Greg Chandler Staff Writer As people become more and more depen­ . dent on reliable internet service - whether it’s for kids getting their classroom instruction • online or for businesses seeking lo grow 2020 was a year w hen more attention focused .on expanding broadband service to Barry County. * In May, the U.S. Department of Agriculture ‘■approved $11.8 million in grants and loans to Bany County Services Company, the parent company of MEI Telecom, to expand broad­ band in 10 townships in the county, covering ., 17 farms. 16 businesses and 12,000 residents spread over 127 square miles. MEI chief executive officer David Stoll recently told the Hastings Banner lhat work ,on laying fiberoptic cable to serve those areas .(will begin after the grant is finalized next year. Stoll said because of the sheet length of fiber that needs to be installed, getting the project done could lake years lo complete. , "It’s extremely cost-prohibitive lo bring ., fiber lo remote areas because you could bury miles of fiber and maybe hit one person,” Stoll said in a Dec. 3 story in lhe Banner. The first half of the Si 1.8 million project twill be paid for by MEI, with the second half coming from USD/X funds. /Xnothcr company. Great Lakes Energy, has been eyeing Barry County as a potential loca­ tion for broadband service. That company, which currently has more than 3,200 electric customers in the county, is planning to start construction of its fiber network in its Wayland service district late next year, but no decisions have been made as far as what communities would be served by the fiber network. "More information will be shared next year as we solidify plans,’’ Great Lakes spokes­ woman Shari Culver said. One of Great Lakes’ board members, John LaForge of Delton, told the Banner earlier this summer that the utility began offering its Trucstream fiber service in Petoskey two years ago and later expanded to Boyne City, where the co-op has its headquarters. Great Lakes had looked at a variety of funding options for broadband expansion, including the Federal Communication Commission’s Rural Digital Opportunity Fund that was launched in February, making $20 billion available to help smaller, rural communities develop and expand fixed broad­ band networks. A study conducted by Connected Nation Michigan in July 2018 found that 725 percent of Barry County households had access to a broadband service with at least a minimum speed of 10 megabytes per second, which is sufficient for most basic internet functions. But less than half of lhe county’s households - 485 percent - had access to services with al least 25 megabytes per second, which is con­ sidered the FCC standard for effective broad­ band, said Dan Manning, a community tech­ nology advisor for Connected Nation Michigan. Several area school disiricts reported sig­ nificant numbers of students who did not have access to internet service at home. Districts A map shows the area in Barry County that is covered by internet download speeds of up to 25 megabits per second. (Courtesy of Connected Nation) responded by purchasing hotsjxHs to share with families. A survey conducted last spring by Hastings Area School System found about 30 percent of students did not have reliable access to technology and internet service. At Thomapple Kellogg Schools, more than 20 percent of students use cellular hotspots while 5.4 per­ cent of students had no internet access at all. At Delton Kellogg Schools, about 100 of the district’s 600 families reported not having reliable access to lhe internet. Several internet service providers applied for grants through the Connecting Michigan Communities program, an initiative of the slate Department of Technology. Management and Budget. The program offered $20 million in grants to providers who want to expand broadband access in rural areas of the state. ACD.net was considered for the first round of grants through the CMIC program, but was not selected to receive a grant when the final awards were announced in early October. Subsequent rounds of granls arc expected to be announced in March and June 2021, according to lhe DTMB website. Smaffl busmess r®Dfef may be on the way Draft permit reteased for Barry County Watson Drain flooding project Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Barry County Drain Commissioner Jim Dull said he got what he wanted for Christmas. Officials with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy have provided him with a draft permit for die Watson Drain flooding projectIf approved, lhe permit will allow Dull and his suff to pump water North from Unper Crooked Lake and the Delton Mention pond and through Cloverdale and ^••Wfegot the (draft) permit right around 4 ryec 23 ” Dull said Monday. P L«ral steps remain in the process. ^•he draft has quite a few simulations,, । •. ..\Ve have io go over everything Dull said. surtf it aJ1 works. inthepermtiand n k ,( a “There is a ,ot of conditions,” lengthy jxrnn (.fand Rapids wakr Audric Kirk. L . -ct supervisor, said, resources division Du]| haf> lo One of the sup systems or the report changes inn arby (o slop Delton Marsh; Ife ■ even| |i||s lhc system, pumps if a 1 h t|i;ll restrictive. Dull -Ifsnot «id|y U Jiristmas present, said. “This was 1“ |e(j illwut it. Not everyone is ..^-pointed with Ute ••We are extreme y Pa)nljnued effort draft permit approva'^‘ Crooked I-ake to move the c)'«'h’va as a proposed short Community Schmitz. Lol,f „,elnber said. Association board mem walcr quaJ. Schmitz serves on the 1 ity committee. quality (ea,n ' ••Our Ixmg l^e w^|j( ;lIld wall be m be reviewing the dra I l^og jjjtc communication wtth our 5 dents on next steps to protect our hike,” she said. Dull and his team have until Friday, Jan. 22, to examine the pennit, negotiate any changes and sign lhe document. "We’ve just got to iron out (he final details before we can gel the final permit,” Dull said. "We’ve got to review and make sure everyone is happy.” Il’s unclear how long the negotiation period will take, Kirk said. She added that there are some points lo the permit that she and her peers would be willing to negotiate, adding that some portions of the document are non-negotiable. Even with lhe month-long window. Dull said he is hoping to get lhe process turned around quickly. It’s not final until Dull signs it, Kirk said. “We were comfortable issuing the per­ mit,” Khk said, "this should be something we can work with.” Even if he gets a final permit by the end of January, construction on the flooding relief project will not begin for a while, Dull said. The next step following lhe procurement of a permit is to complete engineer draw­ ings, he said. Engineers working on the project cannot complete the drawing plans until a final permit is released, because of the potential for requirement changes bv EGLE officials. ? After engineer drawings arc complete, Dull said that a bid package process will start. The bid process allows different com­ panies to bid on contracts to complete the proposed work. Then, after reaching agreements with companies, they will hold a day of review “It’s going to take a while before we can gel this thing rolling.” Dull said. Luke Froncheck Staff Writer Financial relief may be coming soon to small businesses in Barry County with die passage of federal and slate relief packages. "We arc anxious to assist businesses with the new round of lhe paycheck protection program,” Chelsey Foster, community presidcnt/commercial lender with Commercial Bank, said Monday. In the $900 billion federal relief package, about $325 million is intended for small busi­ nesses, according to a news release from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s office. Most of the funds are designated for pay­ check protection programs. However, Foster said, it s still unclear if lhe rollout of the new program will be similar to other rollouts. “We hate to speculate on how it will unfold,” he said, “we just hope it will be sim­ ilar to last time and that it will come oul some­ time in January.” The federal relief package was signed by President Donald Trump last Sunday. "1 am signing this bill to restore unemploy­ ment benefits, stop evictions, provide rental assistance, add money lor ppp, return our airline workers back to work, add substantial­ ly more money for vaccine distribution, and much more.” Trump said m a Dev. 27 release. Last week, Barry County Chamber of Commerce President and Executive Director Jennifer Heinzman said, lhe only informa­ tion we have received is that i( wil| ver> similar to the find of PPP grants and loans You will need P apply through your local bank-the same as last llnje;. Heinzman said her £ will send out more information on h the. financial relief will be distributed as n as it becomes aVM±while. .be Mig;Slate Ugis|alure “It’s good that the government is doing something to support families and businesses, but it is a drop in the bucket compared to what is needed. I hope they can do much more to get people back on their feet after the year we’ve had." Jennifer Heinzman, Barry County Chamber of Commerce President and Executive Director tribute lhe safe and effective vaccine and eradicate COVID-19 once and for all.” Whitmer said. • UPS & FedEx Shipping • Copy Service (block & while or color) • Photo Processing • FAX Service • Laminating • And Much More authorized a n1'1,1 269.945.9105 21 including ■?. OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00-5:30 . b‘H Dec. " «r Mtutll business “survival" grants- D'4 11 was signed by Whitmer Tuesday|jef bili u lll hioarti^nn t ill provide The slate package also includes $75 million for hospitals and health care workers, $22 million for testing, $57 million for vaccine distribution and $45 million in direct pay­ ments to workers impacted by COVID-19. “There is a light al the end of the tunnel,” Whitmer said. “As we continue working to eliminate this virus, I urge all Michiganders co be smart and stay safe. We will gel through this when we continue working together.” On Monday. Heinzman said, “It’s good that the government is doing something to support families and businesses, but it is a drop in the bucket compared to what is needed. I hope they can do much more to gel people back on their feel after the year we’ve had.” 1351 N M-43 - Hwy., Hastings, Ml 49058 Just north of city limits_ _ _ _ _ _ �Mnst.na< Banner Hastings senior Gabe Trick works on top of Goodrich's Carson Richards during their match for fifth place in Division 2’s 140pound weight class during at the Individual Wrestling Finals hosted by Ford Field in Detroit in March Trick scored a 7-4 win in the match. Lakewood varsity wrestling coach Bob Veitch presents senior Jon Clack with his state championship medal after Clack won the Division 3 189-pound championship at the Individual State Finals at Ford Field in Detroit in March. Clack and teammate Grant Clarkson each captured individual state titles. 20 season: that decisions to hold spring sports Brett Bremer practices would be made by individual school Sports Editor There wa.«» a hand sanitizer station in the districts; and then finally lhat winter “postsea­ lobby of Pewamo-Westphalia High School son events sponsored by the Michigan High the evening of March 11.2020. but no one in School Athletic Association have been sus­ the gymnasium was wearing a face covering pended immediately and indefinitely due to or had really even given the idea much concerns related to COVID-19." The-Lions were routed.by Potterville in , thought : The LfltthrDod varsity boys’ basketball ' fhvir Division 3 District Semifinal the previ­ team scored an earls evening victory over the ous evening. 89-52 by lhe Vikings. Maple Charlotte Orioles in the Division 2 District Valley’s season was over regardless. The Semifinals at Olivet High School, canting a Potterville Vikings never did get the chance to spot in the district final planned for March 13. face district host Pewamo-Westphalia in a Maple Valley rook the court at Pewamo- district final. The Lakewood Vikings never Westphalia High School for its Division 3 did get the chance to face off against Eaton District Semifinal match-up with Potterville Rapids in its Division 2 District Final in in the late game there, with athletic director/ Olivet. varsity girls’ basketball coach Landon Wilkes The high school spring season in Michigan filling in on the bench for the Lions. came and went without a contest for high That wound up being the final varsity school baseball, softball, girls’ soccer, girls’ sporting event of lhe 2019-2020 school year tennis, boys’ golf, boys’ or girls’ lacrosse, or for a team from Barry County, and one of the boys’ or girls’ track and field teams. The last to finish in the entire state of Michigan. MHSA/\ announced April 3 that it would be The Michigan High School Athletic canceling the remainder of its winter tourna­ Association made its first COVID-19 related ments and lhe entirety of the spring sports statement hours before those boys’ district season. semifinal ballgames. It was a sad lime for seniors from the class “The MHSAA is working with slate and of 2020, missing out on spring sporting local health authorities lo monitor the devel­ events, rights of passage like graduation cere­ oping COVID-19 situation in Michigan," the monies and celebrations. As the summer wore organizations statement read. “At this lime, on, many of those seniors got to experience all MHSAA postseason tournament events some kind of graduation ceremonies with will be played as scheduled. We encourage their classmates, but not because the pandem­ people to follow the CDC guidance regarding ic was nearing an conclusion. hand-washing, personal hygiene and slaying A couple of Lakewood seniors did get to home when sick. close their high school wrestling careers the “We are continually monitoring this situa­ way they were hoping to. The slate’s individ­ tion. If it becomes necessary to make adjust­ ual wrestling loumament concluded four days ments to MHSAA tournament events, deci­ before those district semifinal boys’ basket­ sions will be made to ensure a healthy and ball games and Lakewood seniors Jon Clack safe environment for everyone involved." and Grant Clarkson won individual state In the next 27 hours, lhe MHSAA championships at Ford Field in downtown announced spectators would likely be limited Detroit lhe first weekend in March. at the final winter sporting events of the 2019Clack, a three-time stale medalist and four­ time state qualifier, compiled a 52-0 record in his senior season and defeated Richmond’s Noah Montanari 6-4 in Division 3’s 189pound championship match. Clarkson, a two­ time slate medalist, was 40-0 as a senior and finished off his season with a 5-2 win over Birch Run’s Terrance Watson in the 285pound championship match. "I am on cloud nine right now. I am really happy," Clarkson said. “This has been a goal since my freshman year. I went and talked to (head coach) Bob (Veitch) after my freshman year of wrestling and said I wanted lo win a stale title and we’re four years later and now it happened." Clack’s final win was his 200th as a varsity wrestler. “I trained so hard that I came here with a smile. I had a feeling. I was just walking around smiling, I already knew’,’’ Clack said. Veitch shared the Vikings’ coaching duties with Tony Hanner lhe past couple seasons, and announced that the state finals were his last bouts in the comer for the Vikings as the varsity head coach. “It has been a Measure," an emotional Veitch said after the Inals. "I couldn’t ask for a better 40 years. The kids make it. TWis what it is about." Across the street from Ford Field, workers dangled from cables high above the concourse at Comerica Park, the home of the Detroit Tigers, hand-washing lhe massive scoreboard in right ccnterfield in preparation for lhe 2020 MLB season. Fans would never see the gleaming score­ board in person from inside the gates in 2020. It wasn’t just school sporting events that were affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Schools as a whole transitioned to remote learning in the spring, and some students have yet to return to classrooms although that is mostly a choice rather than a requirement. Gyms, bowling alleys and other indoor athlet­ ic venues have yet to return to full capacity after many were forced to close their doors due to state orders throughout the majority of 2020. The Detroit Red Wings and Pistons had the conclusions of their 2019-2020 season wiped out. The Detroit Tigers had their 2020 season brought to a standstill in the middle of spring training and eventually played a short­ ened regular season in an spectator-less Comerica Park. The Detroit Lions are near the end of their struggle through the 2020 NFL season, one in which they played in a specta­ tor-less Ford Field in downtown Detroit. It was a fight against the Coronavirus pan­ demic and slate orders to get high school sports restarted once again in the fall, but it finally happened. Football teams began fall practice, had their sports season pushed to the spring and then eventually a shortened fall regular season was put into place with every varsity team in the state of Michigan invited to compete in the MHSAA state tournament. There were hiccups and alterations to mask mandates along the way. but eventually lowrisk outdoor sports like cross country', tennis and golf completed their seasons, as did a higher-risk varsity sport boys’ soccer. Another pause came in November howev­ er, as cases of COVID-19 *n began a Steep rise. Indoor snorts like volleyball and girls’ swimming aJ diving which got a late start to their fall scason were a week away from completion. Deiron KelloggfTh°m“PP e Kellogg/Hastings junior Abby Marcukar is still awaiting the cJhance to participate in the Division 1 UWcr p^ula Swimming and Diving Finals, for which she qualified in the 100-yard backstroke and the W"* *** style, and the Lakewood varsity volleyball team is hoping to L the chance to conclude ts season wh^h Ss Hed after the W earned a spot ,he Division 2 State Quarterfinals'^ c " k of rounds remain in |he «**“’’ >1 -play and 8-play« lootball tournaments as* . Voll'yba)l playe"’ swimmers practiced “ny way they couldHcfore ih'X ? Xr IO enter school t u . in early September. The Lakew^ build“’fe JLball learn began , „„an Moore, Adam Bush, Nick Bushman and Noah Thornapple Kellogg seni0't Division 2 District Championship after a win over the Webster celebrate their team s Dws fina| at HasIings High School in February, Saxon varsity wrestling team m the ming in front of the redesigned lake front at the YMCA of Barry County’s Camp Algonquin. “We still started in June with lhe hope thal there would be an opportunity to get into the water at some point in time,” DK/TK/HHS varsity girls’ swimming and diving coach Carl Schoessel said as his team prepared for the season to finally begin in early September. “So, we worked out at the soccer field [at Hastings High School] primarily running, doing dry-land drills and that is where we had our workouts for June and July." Winter sports teams, such as boys’ and girls’ basketball, wrestling, competitive cheer, bowling and skiing teams, are hopeful to start their season at some point. That won’t happen before Jan. 16, 2021, at lhe earliest. The MHSAA is still hopeful that the 2020 spring sports scason will go on as planned. Amidst all of this, the student-athletes who did gel to do their thing in 2020 did some great things once again. That Lakewood var­ sity volleyball team which is still hoping for a conclusion to its season spent most of the fall as one of the top one or two ranked teams in the state in Division 2, falling to Lowell in a battle of two state runner-up teams from 2019 when the season finally got to begin in the Lowell High School gymnasium in the middle of September. “I liked what we saw at moments, and 1 think wc can get really good if we keep doing the little things and getting better at them," Lake wood head coach Cameron Row land said after the loss to the Red Arrows. “How many times did wc dig balls where wc missed connections because we haven’t wrorked on that yet? Normally, we would have done that by this point, but it is hard to do those things outside with connections and stuff because the wind is a factor and the sun. It is just dif­ ferent. Being able to be inside and do those things will be nice." The Vikings went on to keep their Greater Lansing Activities Conference record perfect, claiming another conference championship. Leading lhe way for lhe Vikings were seniors Sophie Suits and Aubrey O’Gorman, who signed her National Letter of Intent to join the Michigan State University Women’s Volleyball program next scason. junior oppo­ site side hitter Maradith O’Gorman, sopho­ more setter Skylar Bump and freshman libero Carley Piercefield. The O’Gorman sisters. Bump and Piercefield all earned all-state hon­ ors this fall in Division 2 as did Maple Valley senior outside hitter Keilyn Carpenter who will continue her volleyball playing days at Wayne State University. Keilyn’s mother, Sarah Carpenter, announced she would be stepping down from lhe head coaching posi­ tion at Maple Valley to be able lo follow Keilyn’s collegiate career. The Lakewood volleyball team’s confer­ ence title was one of two won by Lakewood teams this fall as the Lakewood varsity girls’ golf team also scored a GLAC championship. A pair of conference championships were captured in Hastings, one on the gridiron and one in lhe pool. The Hastings varsity football team put together its best Interstate-8 Athletic Conference campaign ever, finishing 4^1 against conference foes. The Saxons won six consecutive ballgames, including their first ever victory over the Jackson Lumen Christi Titans, following a season opening loss to the Parma Western Panthers. The Saxons ended the regular season with a 5-1 record with a 37-18 dismantling of lhe Charlotte Orioles in Charlotte and then throt­ tled Three Rivers 58-0 in the opening round of the Division 4 slate tournament for their first play off victory since 2007. The Saxons had their play off run ended by Paw Paw in the Division 4 District Semifinals Continued next page Maple Valley junior Curtis Walker fights to get a shot up in the lane against Potterville during the Lions’ Division 3 District Semifinal against the Vikings at PewamoWestphalia High School March 11. It was lhe final high school contest for a varsitv team from the area before the coronavirus pandemic put high school sports on pause until the first fall sports began In August. �■* 31,2020 —Page 13 Thursday int thwarted with vhfch would have Iv had a fourth down seconds a* it fought to try and take “No[ unlike any thing else this year, our never ghv up,” Hastings varsity football j head coach Jamie Murphy said. “They never hhink they’re out of it. no matter whai the J-ecore is. 1hey know what they have when we • play together Jn lhe first half, wc made some j huge mistakes. We had some turnovers and cthat is very uncharacteristic of us. and it cost Jrus some points on the scorebixud. TTie score {right before halftime was kind of a killer for • us. but our kids never hung their head. They ‘.stayed with it and they knew they had a ^chance the whole game through.” i Hastings, Thomapple Kellogg, Delton J Kellogg and Maple Valley all scored postscaj-son victories. TTiomapplc Kellogg defeated ; Kenowa Hills and then jumped a step in lhe • Division 3 state tournament when Zeeland ‘ West was forced to forfeit its district semifinal ’ ballgame with the Trojans because of COVID ‘ 19. East Grand Rapids ended the Barry ; County football season with a 41 -17 win over • the Trojans at Memorial Field in F.GR. The - Pioneers are still hopeful they’ll get to play a Division 3 Regional Final against Muskegon sometime in January. Delton Kellogg was ultimately thwarted by long-time nemesis Schoolcraft in its Division 7 District Semifinal match-up, falling 43-14 to the Eagles who also bumped the Panthers out of the playoffs in 2018. Delton Kellogg played its home football games on the new artificial turf a the stadium in Delton, sharing the field with lhe varsity boys* soccer team which included a couple football play ers loo. A number of football players al schools all over lhe state went looking for other opportu­ nilies when they believed their foolball season was being pushed to the spring of 2021 and a few worked out ways lo stick with their new teams even after the fall football season was renewed. Maple Valley gol lo be a part of what turned into a special four-team, 8-player stale tourna­ ment for schools districts with enrollment numbers too large to qualify for the regular MHSAA 8-player tournaments. The Lions, playing some kind of postseason football for the first time since moving to the 8-player ranks at lhe start of lhe 2019 season, scored a semifinal win over Vandercook Lake before falling 41-30 to Bridgman in the tournament championship game. “Il was a great experience to play some meaningful football, this late in the year again,” Maple Valley varsity football coach Mary Martin said, vv hile being appreciative ot his team’s boisterous fans who he said out­ numbered the Bridgman faithful at lhe bail­ game in Bridgman. Marcukaitis and the DK/TK/HHS girls’ swimming and diving team captured lhe OK Rainbow Tier II Conference Championship this fall, falling only lo Wayland during lhe 2020 regular season and then closing oul lhe team season by winning the conference tour­ nament. Marcukaitis was joined by her sister Sophie Marcukaitis, Juliann Meeker and Anna Haywood win w inning all-conference honors. Thai foursome won the 200-yard freestyle Dollon Kellogg TIiornapple Kellogg/Hastings junior Ab y da|S for he ® ® *lst bump (rem head coach Carl Schoessel before accepting e elf and her teammates in the 200-yard medley relay at the OK RainborT.r,:ortship and Ma 6 m Hastings last month. The team won the conference champ Marcukaitis has qualified for the state finals in a pair of individual eventsfor the Division 3 Wer Peninsula Girls’ »- ................. .........■.--—= --------------------------------------------— relay at the conference meet. Sophie was. the Golf Finals for the second consecutive fall, Hastings senior Rylee Honsowitz awaits her final putt during the Division 3 Regional KM) yaid breaststroke champion while Abby finishing as the top v« dual qualifier from . Tournament at Diamond Springs in Hamilton in October. Honsowitz was the top won the 50 yard freestyle and the 100-yard her regional tournament at Diamond Springs individual state qualifier from the event, earning a spot in the state finals for the second backstroke at the conference meet. Golf Course in early October. 7 he golf finals 1 lhe DKTK.IIHS girls dedicated lhe sca­ were a bit different m JLO. with state partic- year ! in a row. son, and the victory to the memory of team­ ipants playing just 18 ho cs over the course of mate Lydia Cole who lost her battle with a single day rather than two 18-hole rounds in cancer in January. Cole would have been a a weekend. Honsowitz was 19th individually senior on the team this fall, and her parents at the stale finals at Forest Akers East Golf Ryan and Kelly Cole continued to volunteer Course on the campus of Michigan State as timers for home meets at the CERC this University, shooting an «... season. Hie DK-TK.HHS girls made sure to While the girls’ golf and cross country tour­ welcome them into their celebration after naments experienced sonic changes, there all-conference honors and the final standings were alterations to the boys tennis scason as were revealed. well. Lakewood senior Brady Gawnc was A handful of local athletes got to participate hoping for a return to the Division 3 Lower in the state finals, many working their way Peninsula State Finals alter reaching the state through altered postseason processes this fall. finals as a junior, but the state tournament High schools from Barry County sent six run­ turned into a team dual competition this fall to ners to the two day Lower Peninsula Cross prevent the usual large gathering at a regional Country Finals at Michigan International tournament, and only eight of the top first Speedway in Brooklyn. Runners had to sur­ singles players in each division were chosen vive a pre-regional round to the state tourna­ by a committee to participate in an individual ment. to aid in keeping crowds down for social-distancing purposes, then a regional state championship tournament. Gawne didn’t make that cut, but did extend race to qualify for the state finals. his fall season a bit. joining with a few other Delton Kellogg senior Micah Ordway closed hr> varsity cross country career by w in­ members of the varsity boys’ tennis team at ning his second state medal. Ordway placed luikewood to run with the boys’ cross country 28th in the Division 3 boys’competition held team in the final few meets of the season to on the Friday of the two-day finals event, help their classmates have enough competi­ competing the course in 16 minutes 55.75 tors to earn a team Score at the conference seconds, just oil his medal winning time from meet and in the state postseason. A group of 16 local varsity wrestlers man­ the finals at the end of his junior season. aged to complete their 2019-20 season at Ford Ordway was a three-time state qualifier in Field in the beginning of March, the two state cross country. (> { r . (-Map.1';- Valley 'treshma^ J .illy F-’aurotynade champions and a handful of other wrestlers from " talcewood, Hastings. Thornapple her first stale finals appearance, running in the Division 3 girls' races thal first Friday in Kellogg. Maple Valley and Delton Kellogg. Uikcwood had five individual state qualifi­ November. l.akew<xxl senior Katie Acker, Thornapple Kellogg junior Jessica Durkee ers and four state medalists, with sophomore and Thirrnapplc Kellogg sophomore Emelia Zacharyr Gibson and senior Kanon Atwell MacDonald all competed in the Division 2 joining the two individual suite champions. girls’ races on Saturday. Nov. 7. Lakewood Clack and Clarkson, on the medal stand in senior Nathan Alford had a stale medal on his Division 3. Gibson placed fifth at 112 pounds mind this fall, but was unable to compete in and Atwell sixth al 119. Hastings’ lone state qualifier, senior Gabe the state finals, after qualifying for the second Trick, wrestled his way to a fifth place medal consecutive fall, because he was forced to quarantine because of close contact with an at 140 pounds in Division 2 in his second individual with COVID-19. That was unfortu­ season of varsity wrestling. All the work we do in practice, it really nately something athletes and teams had to helps. Conditioning is a big part. 1 outlasted a deal with throughout the fall season. Hastings defender Corbin Ulrich brings down Paw Paw ballcarrier Kolby Hindenach Hastings senior Ry lee Honsovvitz qualified lot of my opponents with my energy,” Trick said. A lot of them were better than me in as his Saxon teammate TJ Russell closes in during their Division 4 District Semifinal moves, but I don t think they had the stamina match-up in Hastings in November, a bailgame Hindenach’s Red Wolves won 24-22 I did in the end. I pulled off a lot of those this over the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference champs from Hastings. season, those last minute wins. That makes for a memorable season.** ing outside the top four at their tough regional years on the team” VanPolen said alter his Thomapple Kellogg had five individual team improved to 15-2 in the lead-up to the state qualifiers in Division 2. including fresh­ tournament. A couple other student-athletes did reach conference tournament. man Zack Gibson who was seventh at 112 the state finals at the conclusion of the winter There were a couple firsts last winter as pounds and sophomore Ashton Corson who season, including Thomapple Kellogg junior well. The Hastings varsity boys’ and girls’ was seventh at 103 pounds. W'4 ^Michael Willshire and senior Trevor VanPolen bowling teams competed for an Interstate-8 The area had three state medalists in Athletic Conference Championship for the from the varsity boys’ bowling team. Division 4. including Maple Valley senior The TK boys won the OK Gold Conference first lime ever after playing a non-conferencc Gage Ertman who was eighth at 103 pounds, championship on the lanes last winter, and slate during the 2018-19 campaign. A couple junior Jesse Brumm who was third at 130 went on to qualify for the Division 2 State Thomapple Kellogg High School skiers com­ pounds and Delton Kellogg junjor Hunter Finals as a team with a runner-up finish in peted in varsity ski competitions for the first Belew who was fifth at 171 pounds. Maple their regional. VanPolen and Willshire quali­ time last winter as TK teamed with Plainwell Valley had four stale qualifiers in all. fied for the state singles competition as well to form the Trojan Ski 'learn. Those Thornapple Kellogg state qualifiers with Willshire winning an individual regional The skiers are some of the few high school helped their team to an OK Gold Conference student-athletes who may feel slightly confi­ championship the final weekend in February. Championship at the end of the regular sea­ dent in what is ahead. High school skiers, who VanPolen was the individual champion at the compete outside, socially distanced, wearing son. Lake wood won its seventh consecutive RM OK Gold/Green Conference Tournament. GLAC wrestling championship last February. “It has been awesome. This is the best sea­ helmets were allowed lo begin practices Dec. Lakewood, Thomapple Kellogg and Maple son we have ever had. or at least in my four 21. Valley all won team district championships at lhe end of the winter season. Thomapple Kellogg and Lakewood won conference titles in competitive cheer at the end of the 2019-2020 season too, and the TK, Lakewood, Hastings and Delton Kellogg cheer teams all qualified for the regional round of the state tournament with Lakewood winning a district championship in Division 3 to earn its regional spot. Thai district championship Was founh PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: all-time for the VikingsB usiness Services mgiiBi»■ «u.b-u~ All rc<d c-’mc aJvrrtiung in :ht» Clinging to a two-pqmi lead at the district newspaper h jvtyevt loths Fair Call Phon a Boostarj MATT ENDSLEY, FABRI­ in Frankenmuth, the Uikewcxxl varsity com­ Act ar4 the Michigan CWif Righa Act CATION and repair, custom which o'lirctice!) rule it iHcgd tu 2B9.867.M4I_ petitive cheer team threw out its best round xd»crtisc “any |xtfc»epcc, linvutiun vt trailers, buckets, bale spears, three performance of the season to win the a w*" diKnminalivq lMtr.1 on u^e. color, etc. Call 2n9-804-7506. irlijjtiw, k*. handicap. Until J vtaiut. district title in mid-Februaiy, T|le iUikcwood tulkxul origin, apt <>f martini or ladies outscored runner-up Portland by 55 BUYING ALL HARD­ an Intention, to make any -.ixh preference, hniiution or rur'-uiion WOODS: Walnut. White points in the final round t0 finjsjt oly Familial itatin inchaici children under Oak, Tulip Poplar. Call for Keep friends and championship outing- Being that it was lhe lhe ape of lh hung w>:h jx-tuti or Ic/a! pricing. Will buy single Wal­ cuctodianv pregnant woricu pcop’c Raiders right on their tads made the win even /datives infonned WCUrtng in toJy of children vadsr IN nut trees. Insured, liability & as little .sweeter for the Vikings. Fhi» newapnper will not knewingK workman ’ s comp. Fetterley with all the local neies accept c.-.y adcen.M.ig er re-' •etzte ’They were pretty excited;* Lakewood which ii hi liol.iiiiat .>( the |;»w Our l-ofining, (209)818-7793. Send them... rcade”* .Jc F-»cb> inf.-retted il.n ,.)| head coach Kim Martinsaidof her girLs. “Not I >• • ■■■• Mfaniead ■■> is.* i.;. qpaptf BELLS CONSTRUCTIONgoing to lie, any <la>’ >’ou bcal Portland is a The Hastings arc aiiaUMc >/i «n t'ppr'rtvn'l) 18 years experience. Dry wail, hs>:\ To rcp'tl .bKniturultoo ; d| thc good day. That has been our goal - to beat I.’ H-c.-k Center at 61b BANNER painting, tile, flooring, inm. them because last year al districts they beat lhe HUD Ml frs< ickphatre n.imbcr let home improvements, rubbish rhe L. *nnp impaired H !-hOf}-'»2? 9J7J To ‘3ubs.T!t>e, call us atiis. we came back and g eni at regionals.” removal. 269-32B-3890. senior Mican ' The Vikings ultimate:Iy tame up short of * MIS in Kellogg November. ,0 Delton his second state medal in Division 3„at the Lower PenirKnH Cross Country 269-945-9554 tjU bid io get back 10 ‘llc finale, finish- ner CLASSIFIEDS lhe Hastings BANNER • 945-9554 t �Th0 Hastings Banner 14 _ -0™^, December JL Athletes still await dates for resumption of postseason Brett Bremer S/vrr/' k'^t{,r '• TK „„Hn t<> resume H* h’Fb SC|1‘"’1 I here was a pla>to n. a sports fall ’ lK.c<i caroc ,() a A,hl5,ic Assoe^^^X^ newest plans u. *' sports tournaments ncx ri The concluding rounds of MHSAA post­ season tonrn.unettts in volleyball trx'iball and nirls’ swimming & ‘It' >nS *'H l,c completed during Januar). acconlmg to the MHSAA as it continues to folio* all emergency orders from the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services (MDHHS). The Lakewood varsity volleyball team went into last week planning to begin two weeks of practice before a Jan. 5 Division 2 State Quarterfinal match, and held practices (Dec. 21-22) after it was announced Dec. 18 that the MDHHS had of fered an option for the MHSAA fall seasons to resume as part of a rapid testing piolt program. The MHSAA. on Dec. 22. received full details and require­ ments for the pilot rapid testing program being provided b) the MDHHS. and relayed to schools lhat practices that had resumed should cease. j Viking head coach Cameron Rowland said his girls are more antsy than upset or sad­ dened by the failed attempts to close oul the season so far. He was happy with how quickly his girls shook any rust off during their tw o meetings together and expect* the veteran team to be able lo do it again in the coming weeks. l ull teams taking part in the pilot program are expected to receive rapid result antigen tests and more instruction by Tuesday, Dec. 2(). Die MDHHS is slated io conduct webinats to train school personnel who will be involved in the testing process this week. Once the first tests have been administered on Wednesday. Dec. 30 at the soonest, full team practices may commence. If schools are delayed in the start of testing, those schools may begin practice once individuals have had one negative test. Row-land said that high school athletic trainer Brad Nash would Ik* trained to perform the nasal swab tests, which will Lx? required three limes a week of all players. He expects lhat teams will have to practice and have neg­ ative test results for a period of two to three weeks before competitions may begin again. The MDHHS’s current epidemic order which paused activity beginning Nov. 18 - is set to expire Jan. 15. and if restrictions on non-contact sports are lifted then volleyball and swimming & diving could practice and compete at that time outside of the required rapid testing program. If the MDHHS epi­ demic order continues, volleyball and swim­ ming & diving could begin practice, but those teams and individuals will have lo follow all requirements of the MDHHS rapid testing pilot program lo be eligible to participate. Specific plans and dates for volleyball and girls swimming & diving practice resumption and MHSAA tournaments will be finalized and shared with competing schools in early January. Football teams may begin two days of out- Fall teams taking Part in t^ pilot program are expected to receive rapid result antigen tests and more instruction by Tuesday, Dec. 29. The MDHHS is slated to conduct webinars to train school per­ sonnel who will de involved in the testing process this week. Once the first tests have been administered on Wednesday. Dec. 30 at the soonest, fan team practices _____ may commence. door, non-contact conditioning and drills, wearing helmets and shoulder pads with phys­ ical distancing. on Monday. Dec. 28. in advance of the first round of testing Dec. 30 as part of an MDHHS rapid testing pilot pro­ gram. Schools wi|] lcst players, coaches and other team personnel, with full-contact prac­ tice then allowed after a first round of nega­ tive results. The testing program will utilize BinaxNOW antigen tests that produce results within 15 minutes. For football. ] |.p|ayer Regional Finals and 8-Player Semifinals will be played Saturday. Jan. 9. Tlie 8-Phyer Finals and 11-Player Semifinals will lie played Saturday, Jan. 16: and 11 -Player Finals will be played during the weekend of Jan. 22-23. MHSAA Council provides new plan for winter sports 'The Representative Council of the Michigan High School Athletic Association Wednesday approved an adjusted regular-season calendar for indoor Winter sports, which under current Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) orders may restart their seasons Saturday, Jan. 16. All Winter sports activity had been paused by MDHHS on Nov. 18 lo decrease spread of COVID-19. Girls and boys alpine skiing, with all activity taking place outdoors, was allowed by MDHHS to resume its season Monday (Dec. 21) and remains underway. If the MDHHS pause ends, indoor practices may begin again Jan. 16. with first competitions Jan. 22 for basketball, bowling, ice hockey And swimming & diving: and Jan. 25 for comfhetitive cheer, gymnastics and wrestling. ’Fhe Council also approved one-year chang­ es to competition limits in ice hockey and wrestling. In hockey, teams may play two games on one non-school day on two dates this season - with four games total during those two weeks when this opportunity is uti­ lized. Wrestling teams are allowed two dates of competition per week this season, with competition limited to four teams at a site (and three matches per student per day of competition). The Council also approved changes to the Winter tournament schedule pushing champi­ onships in most sports back to allow for regu­ lar seasons to be extended due to the late start. Girls’ basketball will begin district play March 8 with lhe state finals planned for March 26. Boys’ basketball will begin district play March 9 with state finals March 27. Bowling teams will participate in regionals March 19-20 and the state finals are planned for March 26-27. Competitive cheer districts END-OF-LIFE CARE DECISION MAKING Just as wc create estate plans for our eventual demise, we also need to plan for lhe possibility that we will become sick and unable to make our own medical decisions. Medical science has created many miracles, among them the technology to keep patients alive longer, sometimes indefinitely. As a result of many wellpublicized "right to die" cases, stales have made it possible for individuals lo give detailed instructions regarding the kind of care they would like to receive should they become terminally ill or are in a permanently unconscious slate. These instructions fall under the general category of “end-of-life care decision making." Michigan Patient Advocate Designation If an individual becomes incapacitated, it is important that someone have lhe legal authority to communicate that person’s wishes concerning medical treatment. Like a power of attorney, a "Patient Advocate Designation” allows an individual to appoint someone else to act as their agent, but for medical, as opposed to financial, decisions. The Patient Advocate Designation is a document executed by a competent person (the principal) giving iSeffierneS the 'S determines that the principal is unable to communicate his or her wishes concerning treatment. If lhe principal later becomes able to express his or her own wishes, he or she will be listened to and the Patient Advocate Designation will have no effect. Appointing an Agent Since the agent will have the authority lo make medical decisions in the event the principal is unable to make such decisions for him- or herself, the agent should be a family member or friend thal the principal trusts to follow' his or her instructions. Before executing a Patient Advocate Designation, lhe principal should talk to the person whom he or she wants to name as the agent about die principal's wishes concerning medical decisions, especially life-sustaining treatment. Once the Patient Advocate Designation is executed, the agent should keep lhe original document. The principal should have a copy and lhe principal's physician .should keep a copy with that individual's medical records. Contact Longstreet Elder Law & Estate Planning, PC to discuss Patient Advocate Designations and all of your estate planning and long term care needs.. Robert J. Longstreet instructions that they patient agent wrll be earned <»■'• A j||y Advocate Oesrgnat ||)(livid;ia| and important to hJ'u 11 .lisa„rce about family members may degree Longstreet Elder Law & Estate Planning P.c. are planned for March 5-6. with slate finals to be held March 19-20. Wrestling districts will be held the week March I, with team finals March 19-20 and individual finals March 26-27. Boys’ swimming and diving in the lower peninsula will conclude with stale finals March 26-27. Ice hockey regionals will be held beginning March 15 with the state finals March 25-27. ■ Currently, the stjuf dates of Spring sports are nol affected. B current orders further delay activity beyond Jan. 16, the MHSAA staff and Representative Council will devise updated plans lhat address both Winter and Spring sports. If current orders are amended to allow activity to begin earlier, lhe first days of prac­ tice and competition will be moved up accord­ ingly “lhe Council has been working to give schools as much local flexibility as possible while putting together lheir winter seasons schedules,’’ MHSAA Executive Director Mark Uyl said. “This flexible planning has been required of us all since June, and we will continue to advocate for kids in all seasons with our continued goal of three seasons played to completion.” A young hiker climbs a hill on the North Country National Scenic Trail in Irving Township on Jan. 1, 2020. The Michigan DNR is encouraging Michiganders to participate in the virtual First Day Hike to open 2021. (Photo by Brett Bremer) DNR hopes Michganders log 2,021 miles or more Jan. 1 Each year, thousands of people greet the first day of January by joining America’s Slate Parks First Day Hikes events according lo the Michigan DNR. These hikes have become an annual tradi­ tion, letting people usher in the year by exer­ cising and connecting with the outdoors. In 2019, nearly 85,000 people from across the country rang in lhe new year by collec­ tively hiking more than 176366 miles on guided hikes. Michiganders contributed more than 3,000 of those miles. Michigan is one of many states adapting its First Day Hikes to a virtual or self-guided format. First Day hikers can spread out in state parks or on non-motorized trails. The goal is to have all Great Lakes State partici­ pants collectively hike, cross-county ski, ride (horse or bike) or snowshoe 2,021 miles or more New Year’s Day. Participants choose the route and distance, while setting the tone for a year of outdoor fitness and fun. “Everyone could use a little more fresh afr and one more reason to get out of die housed said Elissa Buck, DNR Parks and Recreation Division event coordinator. “This is a great opportunity to get outdoors, start ticking n few items off your bucket list.” 7 1 likers are reminded to always dress appro­ priately (or lhe weather. Although outdoors, hikers are asked to please remember to slay at least 6 feel from people who don’t live in their household and wear a mask if they’re going to be near others. To sign up, visit Michigan.gov/FirstDayHikes to RSVP. After hikers have hit lhe trails, they can log lheir miles on the same webpage, LHS virtual run/walk registration open through NYE: The Lakewood Public Schools virtual Viking Fun Run Walk begins Jan. 1,2021 and lhe deadline lo register for the event has been extended right up lo race day. The deadline to register for the 5K event has recently been moved lo Dec. 31. at 11:59 p.m. Participants may then complete lheir 5K at any time, at any pace, on any course of lheir choosing between Jan. 1 and Jan. 10. ’flic cost to register is $35. Thc event is being held in part to make up for funds that the high school classes have been unable to raise during the global coronavirus pandemic. Race participants will get a Navy blue, long-sleeve shirt with the event’s “Stay Strong. Stay Motivated” message on the *’ front. At an additional cost, there are also % slocking caps (S10) and socks ($5) avail- ; able. ’; The first S2000 raised from the event will , be split among savings for the Lakewood High School class of 2021,2022,2023 and | 2024. Additional funds raised will be split between the Alpha Family Center of Lake Odessa and Manna’s Market. Race registration can be done online at * runsignup.com/Race/MI/LakeOdessa/ VikingFunRunWalk. Links directly to the • sign-up page can be found on the Lakew ood Public Schools Facebook feed. Stat® ©©mfrms row HI ©WOO Alert text message outreach A new statewide text outreach is aimed at increasing residents’ awareness of the state’s new exposure notification mobile app. MI COVID Alert. The text messages, which began this month, make it easy to connect to and download MI COVID Alert. Each text includes information about the app and a link to lhe landing page on the state of Michigan coronavirus website with more information about how it works, details about how Ml COVID Alert keeps user information anonymous, and links to Apple and Google app stores. “We want Michiganders to know this is a legitimate communication from the depart­ ment as we encourage them to take this easy •step to protect themselves and others by downloading the Ml COVID Alert,” Robert Gordon, director of Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, said. “The more °f us who download the app. the safer we’ll fie until a vaccine is available to the broader population.” ’ The texts encouraging residents to down,oad <he app are s^Mo^ndividuals based on population used an exposure notification app like MI COVID Alert, there was a potential to reduce infections and deaths, state officials said. Sean those old pictures and make copies, enlargements or postcards. SCANS Half Off thru Jan. 15. 2021 publicly avai|ab|e ^sident contact informa­ tion. Because MI COVID Alert users are anonymous, some individuals who already downloaded the app may still receive a text message. 1 Early text messages included a short link to 607 North Broadway Hastings, Michigan 49058 269-945-3495 - . ..... The no eoTl.^-to use. anonymous app treatment. In genera), a Patient Quires medicaHreatnient, end a physiciw* LPNGSTREET^ ELDER LAW & estate PLANNING F.c than -figure Hutje(), *.. i* 'Vide launch . u. n. , . H|o,lnjihatwhtiili^ulS1percent ot a Rssearclie P 1351 N.Broodway (M-43), Hastings 269.945.9105 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00 - 4:30 * U � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Hastings Banner Subject The topic of the resource Newspaper.HastingsBanner Description An account of the resource <strong>The Hastings Public Library wishes to thank Smith Imaging of Rockford, MI for their work digitizing the Hastings Banner.</strong><br /><br /><strong>The Library also wishes to thank all of the community members who donated money to support our digitizing efforts.<br /><br />The Banner Overview:</strong><br />The Hastings Banner newspaper has been published in Hastings, Michigan since 1856. The following history highlights are taken from Richard Cook's history as published in the 1956 Centennial Edition of The Hastings Banner, and recapped by Esther Walton in her From Time to Time column in The Banner dated April 12, 1984.<br /><br /><strong>Links to online copies of the paper follow the history section.<br /></strong><strong><br /><br /><br />Searching the paper:<br /></strong>The Banner, and all other PDF files on this history portal, are fully searchable. To search:<br /><ol><li>Click on the magnifying glass search icon in the upper right.</li> <li>Enter your search term(s) in the simple search box and press Enter or click on Search.</li> <li>Any PDF file on the site that contains your term(s) should be listed. Do not use the Advanced Search.</li> </ol><strong>See <a href="https://www.barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/676/How_To_Use_Online_Newspapers_8x11.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">How to Use Online Newspapers</a> for more information about using and searching online newspapers.</strong><br /><br />-----------------------<br /><strong>The Banner History</strong>:<br />C.S. Burton &amp; Co. were listed as the proprietors of the "Republican Banner", which first appeared here on May 1, 1856, with Dr. C. S. Burton as the publisher and Norman Bailey as editor.<br /><br />Publication office was on the second floor of the Rower Block, whose address was given as "corner of State and Church"; which corner was not specified.<br /><br />The objective of this publication was to win support for the newly created Republican party and thus counteract the influence of the Barry County Pioneer, a Democratic journal that had been published here since 1851. No copies of the first three issues of The Banner were saved.<br /><br />Make-up on the first journal corresponded with a pattern typical of most local journals then published. Page one contained a few columns of advertising, fiction (often a continued story), and a short feature of no particular news value. Page one was the "literary" page.<br /><br />Page two contained the editorial barbs, along with state news, political articles, Washington items and news of the national and territorial giovernments. Page three contained a few items of local news, sandwiched inbetween the local and foreign news.<br /><br />Page four was usually solid with advertising and as such was the editor's "bread and butter" page....Locally it was the pattern until the early 1880s.<br /><br />Several changes in ownership and management occurred during the first two years of publication, with J. M. Nevins taking over ownership interests on July 16, 1857. With the issue of May 7, 1862, "The Republican Banner" became "The Hastings Banner". Editor Nevins thought the village had developed sufficiently during the past several years to merit this recognition.<br /><br />Another major change in the management of The Banner came when Nevins sold the newspaper to George M. Dewey of Niles on March 14, 1866, who then took over as editor and publisher. Dewey, an ardent Republican and somewhat of a crusader, gave considerable space to editorial comment and party affairs and also directed pointed paragraphs against the saloons and local traffic in liquor. Dewey was the grandfather of Thomas E. Dewey, Republican presidential nominee in 1944 and 1948. Editor Dewey on May 4, 1870 changed the format (and name) of the paper to "Hastings Republican Banner". <br /><br />A fire in December 1883 burned The Banner plant (located in the middle of the block on the north side of State St. across from the courthouse). Files and back issues from August 1880 to December 1883 and the January 4, 1884 issues are missing.<br /><br />The Banner was purchased by Marshall L. Cook and George Bower on July 21, 1880. They changed the name to "The Hastings Banner". M. L. Cook soon became the sole owner and remained so until July 7, 1887 when Albert Nishern (M. L.'s brother-in-law) joined him. Albert Nishern sold his interest on November 6, 1889 to William Cook (M. L.'s younger brother).<br /><br />The Cook brothers partnership held together (56 years) ... Richard Cook followed his father into the newspaper business, and Richard's son William joined him. So the Cook family ownership continued for 85 years, from 1880 to 1974, when Richard and William sold the paper to High Fullerton. J-Ad Graphics became the owners of "The Hastings Banner" in August of 1981. Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Newspaper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Hastings Banner Published 2020 Subject The topic of the resource Newspaper.HastingsBanner Type The nature or genre of the resource PDF Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newspaper Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource varies within year published Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NoC-NC/1.0/ Rights Holder A person or organization owning or managing rights over the resource. Hastings Public Library and J-Ad Graphics Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available J-Ad Graphics Date Accepted Date of acceptance of the resource. Examples of resources to which a Date Accepted may be relevant are a thesis (accepted by a university department) or an article (accepted by a journal). ongoing Description An account of the resource Hastings Banner Published 2020. Specific issues may be incomplete or missing. Note some newspaper files are very large and may take some time to download.